Abstract: Pastoralist socio-ecological systems across Africa, Asia, and Latin America are transforming under climate stress, with adaptation patterned by gendered power. I systematically reviewed 35 empirical studies (2013–2025) using PRISMA 2020 and the SWiM protocol. Searches in Web of Science and Scopus applied pre-registered inclusion criteria (empirical, pastoralist/agro-pastoralist focus, gender analysis); screening used a single reviewer with a 25% independent audit. The objective of the research was to examine power as an organising principle across four interconnected domains: labour redistribution, resource control, decision-making authority, and knowledge recognition. Majority of studies (≈70–80%) report increased women’s workloads alongside male control of land, water, and high-value stock, decision-making as mitigated by committee presence without agenda/budget authority, and women’s knowledge recorded as informal rather than actionable. Exceptions arise where inheritance or titling and decision procedures change. The paper’s innovation is a relational agency framework that links roles, rights, and records to specify tractable, auditable levers that convert participation into consequential authority. The goal is to guide context sensitive reforms that redistribute power and improve adaptation in pastoralist systems.

Abstract: Generalized Age-Period-Cohort (GAPC) models are mortality models incorporates stochasticity which can be represented in generalized linear or non-linear context. By fitting the data to either mortality model, one can make forecasts for the future under the extrapolation framework. Previous research indicates that the machine learning techniques can be applied to improve forecasting ability of such mortality models using different training/testing time periods. However, there is no consensus about generalizing this phenomenon on the improvement of fitted/forecasted mortality rates without depending on particular mortality model or models’ training/testing period. The idea in this study is to re-estimate the mortality rates obtained from each mortality models by applying tree-based machine learning methods within a procedure that creates suitable environment for integrating machine learning models for each GAPC models. This study shows that if the proper procedure is applied, the forecasting ability of each mortality model can be improved.

Abstract: Using Chinese county-level panel data from 2007 to 2022, this study employs the pro-pensity score matching–difference-in-differences (PSM-DID) method to empirically assess the impact of Forest Carbon Sequestration Projects (FCSP) on the economic welfare of rural residents in pilot counties, from both absolute and relative perspectives. The study found that from an absolute perspective, FCSP significantly improved the economic welfare of rural residents; but after incorporating relative comparison factors, the positive effect of the project was weakened, especially in the horizontal comparison between rural areas, showing a significant relative welfare loss. The impact of FCSP on rural economic welfare has obvious lag, and long-term implementation is more conducive to improving the absolute and relative welfare levels of rural residents. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the longer the project inclusion period, the stronger the economic welfare effect; the implementation of FCSP in poverty-stricken counties can significantly improve the economic welfare of rural residents compared with non-poverty-stricken counties, and FCSP are more suitable for implementation in non-ethnic areas.

Abstract: This study adheres to a logistic regression modeling protocol originally developed for long-range intelligence analyses and employs data from UN demographic estimates (2024 Revision) to generate a set of statistical functions that suggest a moderately strong relationship between median age and the direction (arithmetic sign) of the international net migration rate (NMR). According to this functional relationship, from 1990 to 2015, the probability of experiencing a persistently positive net migration rate (a +NMR, directly followed by five consecutive years of +NMRs) rose from less than 0.13 at a median age of 15 years, to a probability greater than 0.55 at 36 years, and to nearly 0.78 at 45 years. Assuming that a significant number of countries surpassing a median age of 36 years before 2055 will become continuous migrant net receivers, several countries in Asia, Latin America, and North Africa, for which UN scenarios currently project a continuous series of -NMRs, or a pattern of sign-switching NMRs, will likely experience a continuous series of +NMRs. These results suggest that, by 2055, more of the flow of international migrants could be spread amongst a more varied pool of continuous net-receiving states than the UN’s future scenarios currently indicate.

Abstract: Hypertension is a major public health concern globally, with varying prevalence and risk factors across different populations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of hypertension and identify its associated determinants among adults in Hawtat Bani Tamim Province. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 adult participants. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and clinical measurements were collected. Hypertension was diagnosed based on standard criteria. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with hypertension, and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. The overall prevalence of hypertension among the participants was 25.5%, with a higher rate observed in urban areas (15%) compared to rural areas (10.4%). Multivariate analysis revealed that age was significantly associated with hypertension, with participants aged 20–30 years (OR=0.181, 95% CI: 0.067–0.485), 31–40 years (OR=0.235, 95% CI: 0.092–0.599), 41–50 years (OR=0.184, 95% CI: 0.067–0.510), and 51–60 years (OR=0.268, 95% CI: 0.104–0.690) having lower odds compared to those over 60 years. Males had a lower risk than females (OR=0.423, 95% CI: 0.192–0.932). Lower educational attainment was also associated with reduced odds of hypertension (secondary or less: OR=0.315, 95% CI: 0.118–0.844; bachelor’s degree: OR=0.294, 95% CI: 0.127–0.679) compared to postgraduates. Regarding BMI, normal weight (OR=0.262, 95% CI: 0.126–0.544) and overweight (OR=0.421, 95% CI: 0.220–0.805) individuals had lower odds of hypertension compared to obese participants. Marital status was a significant determinant, with married individuals having higher odds of hypertension (OR=3.222, 95% CI: 1.807–6.110). Smoking was associated with a lower risk of hypertension (OR=0.181, 95% CI: 0.067–0.485). Hypertension is prevalent among adults in Hawtat Bani Tamim Province, with significant associations observed for age, gender, education, BMI, marital status, and smoking. Targeted interventions addressing these risk factors are recommended to reduce the burden of hypertension in this population

Abstract: Background: Anemia during pregnancy remains a significant public health concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries. It contributes to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes and is influenced by multiple socioeconomic, dietary, and obstetric factors. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anemia and its associated risk factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Meerut City. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 pregnant women attending antenatal care services at an Urban Primary Health Center (UPHC) in Meerut City. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history, dietary habits, knowledge regarding anemia, and supplementation adherence were collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Hemoglobin levels were measured to classify anemia severity. Bivariate analysis identified factors associated with anemia, and variables with p < 0.10 were included in a multivariable logistic regression model. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Out of the total 210 respondents, the overall prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was 63.8%, with 28.6% having mild anemia, 31.4% moderate anemia, and 3.8% severe anemia. Anemia was significantly more prevalent among women from low-income households (p < 0.001), those with lower educational attainment (p = 0.002), poor dietary intake (p < 0.001), and limited knowledge of anemia and its sources (p = 0.000). A significant proportion (83.3%) of anemic women rarely consumed iron-rich foods such as meat, beans, and green leafy vegetables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified low household income (AOR = 2.7; 95% CI: 1.4–5.3; p = 0.003) and poor dietary intake (AOR = 3.5; 95% CI: 1.8–6.7; p < 0.001) as independent predictors of anemia after adjusting for age, parity, and gestational age. Conclusion: Anemia remains highly prevalent among pregnant women in this urban setting, primarily driven by low socioeconomic status, poor dietary diversity, and suboptimal nutritional practices. Strengthening antenatal care services with a focus on poverty alleviation, nutritional counseling, early antenatal care initiation, and enhanced iron and folic acid supplementation adherence is critical to reducing anemia burden and improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes.The study highlights a high burden of anemia among pregnant women in Meerut City, with nutritional inadequacy and economic deprivation being the major contributing factors. These findings emphasize the urgent need for integrated antenatal interventions focusing on improving maternal nutrition, dietary counselling, and addressing underlying socioeconomic inequalities. Strengthening existing national programs such as Anemia Mukt Bharat with local-level nutritional surveillance and community-based education can play a pivotal role in reducing the anemia burden among pregnant women in urban India. Keywords: Maternal anemia, Nutritional status, Socioeconomic status, Dietary diversity, Iron intake, Maternal health, Urban population in India, North India

Abstract: The report discusses food availability and demands in the Anthropocene era, consid-ering the links to global population growth and the extended concept of Cohen’s Con-dorcet equation for carrying capacity estimations. It recalls the Super-Malthus and Verhulst-type scalings, and the recently introduced analytic relative growth rate. Particular focus is on the ongoing 5th Industrial Revolution (IR) times and its feedback interplay with the Sustainable Civilization concept. In such context, the significance of innovative food preservation technologies that can yield high-quality foods with pro-health features, simultaneously increasing food quantity and reducing adverse environmental impacts, is discussed. For this trend, high-pressure preservation and processing (HPP) plays a dominant role. The high-pressure ‘cold pasteurization,’ related to room-temperature processing, has already achieved a global scale. Notable are superior features, fairly correlated with social expectations of the Sustainable Society and the technological tasks of the 5th Industrial Revolution. The discussion is based on the authors’ experiences in HPP-related research and application experiences. The next breakthrough can be HPP sterilization. The innovative path developing the barocaloric effect supporting concept is presented. The mass implementation of HPP sterilization can lead to milestone societal, pro-health, environmental, and eco-nomic benefits.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Against the backdrop of increasing global aging and the transformation of family structures, grandparental caregiving has become commonplace, and its impact on the mental health of older persons is of great concern. Methods: Utilizing data from the 2023 Xi'an Jiaotong University Urban and Rural Elderly Family Support and Psychological Condition Survey, this study employs the Psychological Condition Measurement Scale to assess mental health outcomes. A multi-method analytical approach is adopted, including linear regression modeling, Propensity Score Matching (PSM), and Instrumental Variables Method (IVM), to rigorously evaluate the causal relationship between grandparental caregiving and mental health, while addressing potential endogeneity and selection bias. Results: Grandparental care has a significant positive effect on the mental health of older people, but this positive effect diminishes and may even turn negative as the intensity of care increases. The results of the sub-sample estimation indicate that grandparental caregiving has a more significant impact on the mental health of female older adults, those aged 70-79, and rural older adults. In addition, intergenerational financial support and intergenerational emotional comfort play an important mediating role between grandparental caregiving and the mental health of older persons, in line with the explanatory framework of intergenerational exchange theory. Conclusions: It is recommended that the Government support grandparental care for the elderly at the financial, social security, and policy levels; that society build a diversified system of elderly care services and strengthen public childcare services; and that families establish a value identity of two-way support.

Abstract: The report presents a discussion regarding food requirements in the Anthropocene epoch, examining the im-pact on global population growth. It recalls the recently introduced Super-Malthus and Verhulst-type scal-ings, the carrying capacity concept, and the Condorcet equation linking the mentioned properties. The exten-sion of the latter, introducing the per capita relative growth rate, is proposed. The report focuses particularly on the last 2 centuries, i.e., the Industrial Revolutions epoch with the global population boost. The Condor-cet-based analysis indicates the transition to the development phase with significant sensitivity to current global limitations, including the carrying capacity, after 1965. The report particularly focuses on the most important factor shaping the carrying capacity over the millennia, i.e., food, with special attention to preser-vation-related innovations. Global, even pandemic, threats resulting from current preservation technologies are indicated. It creates the call for an innovative change. The unique possibilities of high-pressure processing (HPP) are presented in this context, including the newly found next-generation innovation: colossal baro-caloric effect (CBE) coupled HPP. After millennia of focusing on securing sufficient food amount, the possibil-ity of food processing in line with the expectations of the sustainable society of the 5th Industrial Revolutions era appears.

Abstract: South Korea has experienced the world’s lowest birth rate for more than two decades. In fact, South’s Korea’s population of close to 52 million is on track to halve by the end of this century. Yet spending more than $270 billion (390 trillion won) on policies including subsidized housing, paid parental leave, child care and early education programs, and family support services failed to reverse this declining trend. Thus, this paper explored the role of socioeconomic and gender inequities that have shaped cultural beliefs regarding parenting, child care, and family life in Korea, and how the sociocultural, educational, historical, and political processes have subsequently shaped the contemporary landscape of Korean early childhood policies and programs. Employing the critical discourse analysis (CDA), this paper describes, interprets, and explains the ways in which discourses of parenting and child care construct, legitimize, and at times, resist inequities in parenting and early childhood development. Key explanatory frameworks emerged from data: 1) Family socioeconomic status and excessive comparison in a hyper-competitive culture; 2) Childrearing as luxury: Gender inequities in parenting and family life; and 3) Parenting as investment: The opportunity cost of childrearing. The paper concludes with implications for early childhood policies designed to strengthen families and children’s well-being.

Abstract: This study examines older adults' subjective well-being (SWB) in Jambi Province, Indonesia, and identifies the key socio-economic determinants influencing their well-being. Using a structured survey of 207 respondents aged 60 and above, SWB was measured through a 19-item instrument encompassing life satisfaction, emotional well-being, and sense of purpose. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. The findings indicate that increasing age correlates with a decline in SWB while being female, having a higher level of education, maintaining an active role in the household, being married, and having a stable source of income contribute positively. Pensions or steady financial support can significantly enhance well-being, often even more than simply having a job. On the other hand, larger households may lead to lower well-being, likely because of the financial strain and caregiving demands they bring. Interestingly, older adults from the Malay and Bugis/Banjar ethnic groups tend to feel better than those from the Javanese/Sundanese groups. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening social security systems, lifelong learning programs, and community-based support to enhance the well-being of older adults.

Abstract: Relying solely on aggregated ethnicity-based population counts has limited utility for ethnic minority groups. Accurate and relevant population counts are critical for monitoring and improving outcomes related to health, social welfare, and education. This article examines additional dimensions of identity to provide a revised estimate of the total population count for Peoples of Fiji (PF) living in Aotearoa. Customized data tables from the Census of Population and Dwellings, provided by Statistics New Zealand, were analyzed using ethnicity and additional recorded characteristics, such as country of birth, and parents’ ethnicity, to obtain more accurate counts for the major ethnic groups from Fiji living in Aotearoa. Our analysis revealed that almost 50,000 Fijian Indians were misclassified. Utilizing additional variables, we estimate the revised count for the Fijian Indian ethnic group alone exceeds 70,000 and the PF total count exceeds 2% of Aotearoa’s current population. Accurate population counts and granularity within aggregated groups are essential for informing funding formulas and health policies. We highlight significant variations in ethnicity coding for PF and their implications for health monitoring and risk assessment, data quality, and interpretation. We make key recommendations to improve granular reporting for minority migrant groups in Aotearoa.

Abstract: This article examines the multifaceted relationships between pre-colonial ethnic institutions, colonial interventions, and historical traumas on contemporary African development trajectories. Drawing upon the seminal research of Bolt and Bezemer (2009), Michalopoulos and Papaioannou (2013), and Nunn and Wantchekon (2011), this analysis elucidates how historical forces have distinctively shaped developmental outcomes across African regions. The article establishes a theoretical framework integrating institutional persistence, human capital formation, and social capital theories to examine these relationships. It critically evaluates methodological approaches whilst acknowledging regional variations in how these historical processes manifested. The analysis extends to Brazil-Africa connections, providing comparative insights into how similar historical forces produce divergent outcomes in different contexts. The findings suggest significant implications for development policies that acknowledge historical legacies whilst addressing contemporary challenges.

Abstract: The accelerated growth of older adults (the over-65s) in Italy fits within the context of the complex, hybrid nature of the pension system and the welfare benefits financed by tax revenues, which often overlap. As a result, older adults are facing growing inequalities in living and health conditions, both in the Centre-North and the Southern regions, as well as between genders. Through differential analyses, this paper aims to illustrate the progressive increase in older adults, focussing on their most vulnerable component (i.e. the over-85s), especially concerning social assistance and care issues. Our study considers the current characteristics of social ageing and mortality trends that determine older adults’ growth and number, highlighting the pronounced gender disparities that emerge at older ages. Our findings reveal an ongoing process of change that has led to significant territorial disparities in the types of pension benefits and social allowances. This has exacerbated, in turn, inequalities in living conditions across households and between genders.

Abstract: Brain drain represents a critical challenge to global development, reflecting structural inequalities and tensions between mobility and rootedness. This study analyzes the determinants of skilled migration in 178 countries (2006-2022) using a regression model based on panel data, identifying six key variables: uneven economic development, quality of public services, external intervention, voice and accountability, rule of law, and political stability. Governance, particularly political stability and the rule of law, stands out as crucial for retaining talent, while external interventions and economic inequality exacerbate emigration. From a sociological perspective, migrants are active agents who transform transnational networks, challenging traditional notions of citizenship and belonging. Civil society organizations play a central role by facilitating sociocultural inclusion, mediating resettlement processes, and promoting brain circulation as an alternative to retention-focused models. Additionally, the study highlights the cultural and symbolic dimension of migration, revealing the impact of uprooting on communities of origin. Future research should explore how inclusive policies, digital nomadism, and remittances can reduce structural inequalities, strengthen the connection between migrants and their communities, and advance towards a sustainable and equitable mobility model.

Abstract: This review article is devoted to the role of research agendas in linking research and policy in the field of ageing and longevity. After emphasising the importance of research evidence in international policy frameworks on ageing and defining the main parameters of research agendas, the authors turn to describing how research agendas can play a key role in bridging research and policy on population ageing and individual longevity. Examples of international (global), regional and national research agendas are presented. Finally, the authors reflect on the benefits and current limitations of research agendas in supporting evidence-based policy and highlight the potential role of research agendas in developing appropriate and timely responses to the challenges and opportunities of population ageing and individual longevity.

Abstract:

People, their families, and communities weigh the costs and benefits of migration to decide whether to move or stay; however, these decisions are complex and influenced by multiple factors. This study uses the Migration Transition and Aspirations-Capabilities framework to examine how domestic socioeconomic development shapes migration decisions. Applying the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) and Quantitative Descriptive Analyses (QDA) to panel data from 109 low- and middle-income countries, it compares the impact of GDP per capita and the Human Development Index (HDI) on net migration and emigration trends. The dynamic panel regression results show that the HDI exerts a more substantial effect on positive net migration, with its impact being approximately 10.69 times greater than GDP per capita. Coefficients for HDI range from 9.144 to 13.79, while those for GDP per capita range from 0.994 to 1.785. The QDA results also suggest that migration equilibrium is reached at approximately $4,000 GDP per capita, based on emigration rates, and around $7,000 when measured by net migration rates. Additionally, countries with GDPpc between $2,000 and $4,000 experience sharp negative net migration, indicating a highly mobile population in this income range. Finally, the regression results question the theoretical assumption of non-linearity, revealing almost a linear relationship between development and migration. We project that the high emigration flows from low- and lower-middle-income countries will likely continue for the foreseeable future. In light of this, governments in countries of migrant origin must transition from restrictive migration policies and border controls to strategies that promote sustainable socioeconomic development. By improving the Human Development Index (HDI), migration can shift from necessity to a matter of choice. This approach can unlock the full developmental benefits of migration while contributing to the global objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration (GCM).

Abstract:

Ageing, as a phenomenon of profound social significance, has important repercussions. In this work, focused on Spain, the indicators of ageing and population structure are analyzed. This base for demographic analysis is later useful for preparing a sociological essay on the most pressing challenges facing Spanish society, with regard to population ageing. The methodology used, as is usual in the framework of the Social Sciences, involves a combination of the quantitative and qualitative approach. Specifically, from the eminently quantitative perspective, the important methodological shift of the 2021 Population and Housing Census has been taken into account. It also considers how the Statistics on Migrations and Changes of Residence emerge with the aim of measuring the migratory phenomenon between two consecutive censuses, a phenomenon, also, of great social significance in our country. The work culminates with a brief sociological interpretation of the challenges facing Spanish society, as a consequence of the population dynamics studied.

Abstract:

Balanced socio-demographic development is essential for regional resilience and sustainable growth. Forecasting social and demographic processes in the region based on the use of Business Intelligence systems allows for the consideration of a wide range of contradictory and diverse factors and the anticipation of potential scenarios and risks of development. Business Intelligence systems are used for the collection, analysis, and processing of large volumes of data to support decision-making in business, finance, logistics, public administration, and other fields. The goal of the study is to assess the effectiveness of using Business Intelligence systems and geographic information systems (GIS) to achieve balanced socio-demographic development in Kazakhstan. Key indicators include demographic metrics and social infrastructure. The methodology involves the use of analytical platforms such as Power BI and ArcGIS, along with predictive models for forecasting current and future demographic changes. The outcome of the study is a tool for calculating the load on the social infrastructure of Kazakhstan's regions, enabling informed management decisions at the regional level to ensure resilience and balanced socio-demographic growth. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that Business Intelligence systems, integrated with GIS, have significant potential for improving the accuracy of socio-demographic forecasting.

Abstract: This article analyzes the settlement of Haitians and Jamaicans at the state, county, and census tract levels in the two main population centers for these two groups: New York and Miami metropolitan areas. The authors pose the question of whether Haitians and Jamaicans fundamentally differ from African Americans in terms of settlement and socio-economic status. It is established that these two population groups are highly concentrated on a nationwide scale (in the states of Florida and New York) and in some counties (comprising metropolitan areas of New York and Miami). The authors carried out a spatial correlation analysis to identify areas of concentration of Haitians and Jamaicans in the two above-mentioned metropolitan areas. Three distinct Haitian areas, three mixed Haitian/Jamaican, and one distinct Jamaican area are found in New York. In the Miami metropolitan area, three Haitian/Jamaican areas are identified, as well as one Haitian area. The calculation of the Darden–Kamel Composite Socio-Economic Index was used to assess the socio-economic status of these areas and draw a comparison with the concentration of African Americans in these areas. The analysis revealed that the areas of concentration of Haitians and Jamaicans are relatively disadvantaged in their socio-economic status, but to a lesser extent than those of African Americans. The study also established the following pattern: in the New York metropolitan area, the higher socio-economic status is in the mixed Haitian/Jamaican areas of concentration in the central city, while in Miami, it is observed in the Jamaican areas in the suburbs.