Ecological Systems Research Articles

Ecological Capacity and Bioenergy Potential of Agrocenoses as a Way of Sustainable Agriculture

Background: Calculation of bioenergy potential and ecological capacity are promising methods for assessing the state of an agro-landscape, allowing us to promptly respond to changes in its sustainability. The article presents the results of soil research and calculation of bioenergy potential of the farm territory in the zone of dry steppe on chestnut soils. Methods: Assessment of anthropogenic load on agricultural landscape is based on ecological standards and point system of relative fertility. The determination of the ecological capacity by BEPT of an agrocenosis occupied by winter wheat and sunflower was carried out according to the method of V.M. Volodin, R.F. Eremina, N.F. Mikhailova. Determination of erosion and geomorphological characteristics of the research object was carried out using geoinformation technologies. The basis for creation of digital elevation model (DEM) is the data of radar survey of the Earth surface (SRTM4). Result: Soils of the research object have low and average humus content. Nitrogen level in the soil varies from very low to good; nitrogen availability in the fields is average. Provision with mobile phosphorus is average. Soil potassium content is mostly high. As a result of calculations, it was found that in the conditions of the dry steppe zone, the bioenergy potential of the agrolandscape area occupied by winter wheat is 2735.72 GJ/ha, sunflower-2647.4 GJ/ha. At the same time, the ecological capacity of the field occupied by winter wheat is 2764.6 GJ/ha and sunflower-2676.8 GJ/h.

A systematic review of factors influencing English language competency for ethnic minority students: an ecological systems theory perspective

A systematic review of factors influencing English language competency for ethnic minority students: an ecological systems theory perspective

SUITABILITY MAPPING FOR OPTIMAL LANDFILL SITE IN COASTAL MOUNTAIN MUNICIPALITIES. CASE STUDY: COLLO MASSIF (NORTHEASTERN ALGERIA)

The management of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in coastal mountainous regions displays a significant challenge to sustainable development in Algeria, particularly in its environmental dimension. Local stakeholders face substantial difficulties in identifying appropriate sites for solid waste disposal in this area due to the fragility and complexity of their ecological systems and their potential to amplify the impacts of waste disposal. This affects directly the quality of life, sustainability of natural resources, and threatens the scenic beauty of this tourist destination. Therefore, developing a mechanism based on scientific knowledge to facilitate decision-making processes in these regions is imperative. This paper aims to underscore the importance of employing Cartographic Suitability Mapping for Optimal Landfill Site Selection in coastal mountainous regions as an effective tool to ensure precise results, focusing on the study case of Collo, Skikda state, Algeria. The results show four categories of land suitability: constraint (5.22-7.76) , unsuitable (3.25-4.26), and suitable area (1.21-3.24), with four candidate areas identified as the most suitable for landfill establishment. It is recommended that future studies incorporate social and economic dimensions to further enhance decision-making processes in this regard.

Composition of biopesticides for crop protection – current state and prospects (review)

Aim. To summarise and analyse available information on research into biopesticide compositions aimed at enhancing their effectiveness and to assess prospects for the development of this field so as to determine the influence of components on the effectiveness of biopesticides for agricultural crop protection.This review article presents the results of studies of components included in the compositions of microorganism‐based biopesticides based on a system analysis. It is noted that the selection of biopesticide components must be carried out in accordance with the requirements for products recommended for use in ecological and organic farming systems. It is indicated that the choice of optimal formulation is associated with the characteristics of the producer strains, their trophic needs and resistance to biotic and abiotic factors and with the characteristics of the biopesticide application technology (seed treatment, application to the soil or treatment of plants during vegetation), as well as the type of equipment used.Knowledge of the basic requirements for biopesticide formulations will help maintain the viability and biological activity of microbial agents during storage of biopesticides, taking into account the sensitivity of producer strains to environmental conditions. Selection of optimal carriers, adhesives, stabilisers, thickeners and synergists, taking into account the technology of application of the biopesticide and the target pathogen, will facilitate the development and appearance on the market of new biopesticides for protecting agricultural crops from diseases.

The impact of reservoirs on the soils of adjacent areas: overview of global and local aspects

AbstractThis study aims to analyze the impact of reservoirs on the soils of surrounding areas to elucidate potential ecological consequences. To achieve this goal, a territorial analysis of the soil surrounding such reservoirs as the Kyiv, Kaniv, Kremenchuk, and Kakhovka, which constitute the Dnieper Cascade of Reservoirs, was conducted. The study found that the average soil pH changes in reservoirs range from 6.0 to 7.5, while nitrogen and phosphorus content in the soil varies from 0.2% to 1.5% and from 0.1% to 0.5%, respectively. Average changes in the content of humic substances and fulvic acids in the reservoirs range from 1.0 to 3.5 and from 0.2 to 1.5 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, it was found that the creation of large reservoirs on the Dnieper River is accompanied by significant consequences for shoreline soils. The geomorphological study of the reservoirs within the Dnieper Cascade revealed their diversity in terms of shoreline types. Some have more erodible shores, indicating vulnerability to erosion, as observed in the Kakhovka Reservoir, while others have more neutral shores less susceptible to erosion, such as the Kremenchuk Reservoir. The distribution of humic substances in the reservoirs of the Dnieper Cascade is determined by the hydrological structure and water inflows, with the highest concentrations in the upper regions. Decreased flow velocity in the lower part of the cascade leads to the deposition of humic substances in bottom sediments. The threat to ecological systems is exacerbated by incidents such as the catastrophe at the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Station in 2023, which triggered a serious ecological crisis with a wide range of consequences. Consequently, the application of a comprehensive approach to water resource management and environmental protection becomes crucial. This entails meticulous planning of construction, implementation of ecological technologies, and engaging the public in the water resource management process.

Towards Desirable Futures

The 20th anniversary of The Journal of Community Informatics signifies a milestone in the evolution of community informatics (CI) as a field dedicated to empowering communities through the strategic use of information and communication technology (ICT). This article offers some personal reflections on the origins and evolution of CI, tracing its roots to seminal works by scholars such as Michael Gurstein. It also tells the story of how urban informatics was inspired by CI as a distinct field of scholarship to study the interplay between people, place, and technology in urban environments. Building on this foundation, the present challenges and opportunities facing CI are explored, including issues of digital inclusion, ethical implications of emerging technologies, and the transformative potential of ICTs for social change. Looking ahead, the article envisions desirable futures for CI grounded in a life-centred approach that acknowledges the interconnectedness of humans and non-humans within larger ecological systems. Embracing a more-than-human paradigm, CI is uniquely positioned to advocate for ecological justice, amplify the voices of marginalised human and non-human communities, and foster collaboration between humans and the environment to create and protect resilient and sustainable habitat for life on this planet. Through these efforts, CI can contribute to a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all living beings, averting the planetary ecocide that threatens our shared existence.

Identification, characterization, and distribution of novel amidase gene aphA in sphingomonads conferring resistance to amphenicol antibiotics.

Amphenicol antibiotics, such as chloramphenicol (CHL), thiamphenicol (TAP), and florfenicol (Ff), are high-risk emerging pollutants. Their extensive usage in aquaculture, livestock, and poultry farming has led to an increase in bacterial antibiotic resistance and facilitated the spread of resistance genes. Yet, limited research has been conducted on the co-resistance of CHL, TAP, and Ff. Herein, a novel amidase AphA was identified from a pure cultured strain that can concurrently mediate the hydrolytic inactivation of CHL, TAP, and Ff, yielding products p-nitrophenylserinol, thiamphenicol amine (TAP-amine), and florfenicol amine (Ff-amine), respectively. The antibacterial activity of these antibiotic hydrolysates exhibited a significant reduction or complete loss in comparison to the parent compounds. Notably, AphA shared less than 26% amino acid sequence identity with previously reported enzymes and exhibited high conservation within the sphingomonad species. Through enzymatic kinetic analysis, the AphA exhibited markedly superior affinity and catalytic activity toward Ff in comparison to CHL and TAP. Site-directed mutagenesis analysis revealed the indispensability of catalytic triad residues, particularly serine 153 and histidine 277, in forming crucial hydrogen bonds essential for AphA's hydrolytic activity. Comparative genomic analysis showed that aphA genes in some species are closely adjacent to various transposable elements, indicating that there is a high potential risk of horizontal gene transfer (HGT). This study established a hydrolysis resistance mechanism of amphenicol antibiotics in sphingomonads, which offers theoretical guidance and a novel marker gene for assessing the prevalent risk of amphenicol antibiotics in the environment.IMPORTANCEAmphenicol antibiotics are pervasive emerging contaminants that present a substantial threat to ecological systems. Few studies have elucidated resistance genes or mechanisms that can act on CHL, TAP, and Ff simultaneously. The results of this study fill this knowledge gap and identify a novel amidase AphA from the bacterium Sphingobium yanoikuyae B1, which mediates three typical amphenicol antibiotic inactivation, and the molecular mechanism is elucidated. The diverse types of transposable elements were identified in the flanking regions of the aphA gene, indicating the risk of horizontal transfer of this antibiotic resistance genes (ARG). These findings offer new insights into the bacterial resistance to amphenicol antibiotics. The gene reported herein can be utilized as a novel genetic diagnostic marker for monitoring the environmental fate of amphenicol antibiotics, thereby enriching risk assessment efforts within the context of antibiotic resistance.

Never the twain shall meet? Considering an inclusive meritocracy in Singapore

ABSTRACT The concept of meritocracy stands as a fundamental ethos within the governance and educational paradigms in Singapore. This principle, notwithstanding its intrinsic paradoxes – most notably, the juxtaposition of egalitarian ideals against elitist practices – remains steadfastly upheld, with no indications of waning in the foreseeable future. A pertinent issue arising from this meritocratic orientation is the integration of students with special educational needs (SEN) into a system deeply ingrained with meritocratic values, especially considering the obstacles they face regarding accessibility, resource allocation, and prevailing societal attitudes towards disability. This study does not propose dismantling meritocratic frameworks; instead, it proposes the adoption of an inclusive meritocratic model. By exploring how meritocracy and inclusive education have manifested in Singapore, this paper delves into three critical barriers – namely, academic tracking, elitism, and the influence of parentocracy – that concurrently undermine the principles of meritocracy and the ethos of inclusive education. Utilizing Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory as a methodological lens, this paper elucidates the complex interplay among these barriers and their compounded effects across different systemic levels. With a nuanced understanding of the challenges, the paper offers several recommendations for cultivating an inclusive meritocratic system.

Factors for Effective Curriculum Implementation in Higher Learning Institutions in Tanzania

Globally, higher learning institutions face challenges in successfully implementing curricula to enhance student learning. This study investigated factors for effective curriculum implementation in higher learning institutions in Tanzania, particularly (i) to examine the extent to which factors (characteristics of lecturers and institutions, the curriculum itself and governmental support) contribute to effective curriculum implementation and (ii) to assess the relationships among the factors contributing to effective curriculum implementation. This study employed a quantitative research approach and a descriptive research design. A total of 251 students from four fields of study at the Institute of Accountancy, Arusha, were selected via simple random and stratified sampling techniques. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences version 26.0 was used to compute the mean, standard deviation, independent samples t test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and correlation from the data collected through the questionnaire. Guided by ecological systems theory, the findings revealed that the majority of students (80.5%) perceived that lecturer and institutional characteristics, the nature of the curriculum, and governmental support contributed to effective curriculum implementation. Furthermore, there were positive relationships among the study factors, with the highest correlation between the nature of the curriculum and institutional characteristics. On the basis of these findings, the study recommends considering factors related to lecturer and institutional characteristics, the nature of the curriculum, and governmental support to effectively implement curricula and improve student learning in higher learning institutions.

Awareness of DepEd Core Values among Grade 12 Students in a Public High School in the Philippines

This study determined the level of awareness of Department of Education (DepEd) core values among grade 12 students in a public school in Antique, Philippines, in the areas of maka-Diyos (Godly), makatao (person-oriented), makakalikasan (pro-environment), and makabansa (patriotism). Likewise, the study assessed the significant difference in their awareness of DepEd core values relative to their demographics. Hence, the study utilized quantitative research design, particularly descriptive-comparative approaches. The theoretical framework of the study is the ecological systems theory, which assumes the influence of a series of nested systems and environments in shaping human development. This indicates the need for considering the larger ecological context that drives core value awareness. Meanwhile, using the adopted questionnaire, data were collected from 293 Grade 12 senior high school students in a public high school in Antique, Philippines, during the school year 2023-2024. In the analysis of data, frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Mann-Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis test were employed to analyze both the descriptive and inferential problems. The study revealed that the overall core value awareness of students was very high (M=4.35, SD=0.48). This shows that the students at this public school fully recognized the four DepEd core values, namely, maka-Diyos, makatao, makakalikasan, and makabansa. Also, among all the four demographics, only sex [U=7782.5, P=0.001] and strand [χ2(5) =13.739, P=0.017] were found with significant differences. The findings postulate that to elicit students’ core value awareness, strengthening educational policies on consistent core value integration in school curricula, programs, and activities is greatly encouraged. The findings also convey the need to strengthen sustainable teacher orientation to maintain their students' high awareness.

An Evaluation Scheme Driven by Science and Technological Innovation—A Study on the Coupling and Coordination of the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation-Economy-Ecology Complex System in the Yangtze River Basin of China

This study focuses on 19 provinces in the Yangtze River Basin of China. It gathers relevant data indicators from 2010 to 2021 and constructs an evaluation index system centered on agricultural science and technology innovation. The study evaluates the relationship between agricultural “science and technology innovation-economy-ecology” systems and identifies key obstacle factors using the obstacle degree model. The study draws the following conclusions: Firstly, the comprehensive development level index of the agricultural science and technology innovation system shows an overall linear upward trend (values range from 0.121 to 0.382). Secondly, the comprehensive development level index of the agricultural economic system exhibits an upward trend but with a relatively small overall magnitude (values range from 0.248 to 0.322). Thirdly, the comprehensive development level index of the agricultural ecological system demonstrates significant overall fluctuations, with notable regional disparities (values range from 0.384 to 0.414). Fourthly, the overall agricultural SEE (Science and technological innovation, Economy, Ecology) complex system exhibits a characteristic of “high coupling, low coordination”, identifying the main obstacle factors influencing agricultural SEECS based on a formulated approach. Subsequently, the following policy recommendations are proposed: Firstly, enhance the agricultural technological innovation system and promote green and efficient agricultural technology research and development. Secondly, to accelerate the transformation and upgrading of modern agriculture, achieving green and high-quality development of the agricultural economy. Thirdly, to strengthen agricultural ecological environment protection, laying a solid foundation for the healthy and sustainable development of agriculture.

Biodiversity assessment and environmental risk analysis of the single line transgenic pod borer resistant cowpea.

The discussion surrounding biological diversity has reached a critical point with the introduction of Nigeria's first transgenic food crop, the pod borer-resistant (PBR) cowpea. Questions have been raised about the potential risks of the transgenic Maruca vitrata-resistant cowpea to human health and beneficial insects. Public apprehension, coupled with social activists' calling for the removal of this crop from the nation's food market, persists. However, there is a lack of data to counter the assertion that cultivating PBR cowpea may have adverse effects on biodiversity and the overall ecological system. This research, with its multifaceted objective of examining the environmental safety of PBR cowpea and assessing its impact on biodiversity compared to its non-transgenic counterpart, IT97KN, is of utmost importance in providing the necessary data to address these concerns. Seeds for both the transgenic PBR cowpea and its isoline were obtained from the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Zaria before planting at various farm sites (Addae et al., 2020). Throughout the experiment, local cultural practices were strictly followed to cultivate both transgenic and non-transgenic cowpeas. Elaborate taxonomic keys were used to identify arthropods and other non-targeted organisms. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to evaluate potential modifications in all ecological niches of the crops. The lmer function of the R package lme4 was used to analyze diversity indices, including Shannon, Pielou, and Simpson. The Bray-Curtis index was used to analyzed potential modifications in the dissimilarities of non-targeted organisms' communities. Examination of ecological species abundance per counting week (CW) revealed no disruption in the biological properties of non-targeted species due to the cultivation of transgenic PBR cowpea. Analysis of species evenness and diversity indices indicated no significant difference between the fields of transgenic PBR cowpea and its isoline. Principal component analysis results demonstrated that planting PBR cowpea did not create an imbalance in the distribution of ecological species. All species and families observed during this study were more abundant in transgenic PBR cowpea fields than in non-transgenic cowpea fields, suggesting that the transformation of cowpea does not negatively impact non-targeted organisms and their communities. Evolution dynamics of the species community between transgenic and non-transgenic cowpea fields showed a similar trend throughout the study period, with no significant divergence induced in the community structure because of PBR cowpea planting. This study concludes that planting transgenic PBR cowpea positively influences biodiversity and the environment.

Fast Determination and Source Apportionment of Eight Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in PM10 Using the Chemometric-Assisted HPLC-DAD Method

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of organic compounds that are both toxic and hazardous to human health and ecological systems. In recent work, a novel analytical strategy based on the chemometric-assisted HPLC-DAD method was proposed for the quantification and source apportionment of eight PAHs in PM10 samples. Compared to traditional chromatographic methods, this approach does not require the purification of complex PM10 samples. Instead, it utilizes a mathematical separation method to extract analytes’ profiles from overlapping chromatographic peaks, enabling precise quantification of PAHs in PM10. Firstly, 40 PM10 samples collected in Loudi city during two sampling periods were used for analysis. Subsequently, the second-order calibration method based on alternating trilinear decomposition (ATLD) was employed to handle the three-way HPLC-DAD data. Finally, the pollution sources of PAHs were analyzed by the feature component analysis method according to the obtained relative concentration matrix. For the validation model, the average recoveries of eight PAHs were between (88.8 ± 7.6)% and (105.6 ± 7.5)%, and the root-mean-square errors of prediction ranged from 0.03 μg mL−1 to 0.47 μg mL−1. The obtained limits of quantification for eight PAHs were in the range of 0.0050 μg mL−1 to 0.079 μg mL−1. For actual PM10 samples, results of the feature component analysis indicated that the main source of PAHs in PM10 may be traffic emissions and coal combustion. In summary, the proposed method provided a new and rapid analysis method for the accurate determination and source apportionment of PAHs in atmospheric aerosols.

Construction and Optimization Strategies for Rural Residential Spatial Models Based on the Concept of Resource Metabolism: A Case Study of Rural Areas in the Shandong Plain

Rural communities can be conceptualized as spatial organisms interconnected by optimized resource utilization systems. Investigating the efficient utilization of rural resources and spatial construction methods grounded in resource metabolism is a pivotal step toward achieving the ecological transformation of rural spaces. This paper examined rural settlements in the Shandong Plain as a case study, exploring the relationships among three scales: village, neighborhoods, and courtyards. This analysis was based on elucidating the interaction mechanisms between “space and resource” and the integration of key resources and spatial elements. From the perspective of resource circulation and metabolism, this study aimed to elucidate the equilibrium of each resource element within three resource metabolism subsystems: the agricultural production system (core element), the ecological technology system (technological link), and the human life system (spatial carrier) in Shandong Plain’s villages, considering general climatic conditions. To achieve this, this research utilized the resource production volume, the utilization and transformation volume of resource metabolism technology facilities per unit area, and the average per capita resource consumption as fundamental measurement units. The concept of a rationing relationship is introduced to clarify resource allocation. Combining the aforementioned research on spatial resource metabolism in ecological villages in Shandong Province with the material flow analysis method, this study constructed a bottom–up spatial model of resource metabolism at three scales, courtyards, neighborhoods, and villages, under various resource metabolism scenarios. This study is anticipated to significantly contribute to the theoretical understanding of rural habitat environments, offering novel methods and perspectives for constructing ecological rural settlements.

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AS A BASIS FOR THE FORMATION OF HUMAN CAPITAL IN RURAL AREAS

The article is dedicated to the analysis of economic, social, and environmental problems that intensified at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century, stimulating the development of the concept of sustainable development. The authors examine contemporary challenges related to inequality between rich and poor countries, rising greenhouse gas emissions, and the consequences for the environment and society. The aim of the study is to systematize and generalize the existing theoretical and methodological foundations of sustainable development and to clarify them in the context of human capital formation in rural areas. The historical development of the concept of sustainable development, which was established at the UN conference in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, is considered, and three main components of this concept are presented: economic, social, and environmental. The study addresses the classical concept of sustainable development based on the Venn diagram, illustrating the harmonious combination of these components. Special attention is given to the analysis of indicators used for assessing sustainable development in rural areas. Specifically, both domestic and foreign methodological approaches to measuring the effectiveness and inclusiveness of the development of these areas are studied. The article examines various methodological approaches to assessing sustainable development, particularly in rural areas, with a focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN. The study presents an analysis of 17 Global Goals adopted for the period until 2030, aimed at achieving peace, prosperity, and sustainable development in all countries. It is revealed that Ukraine, as a UN member, has actively participated in the implementation of the SDGs, particularly through the national report “Sustainable Development Goals: Ukraine” in 2017. The study substantiates the importance of adapting global goals to the national characteristics of Ukraine, taking into account the specifics of the socio-economic and ecological system. A list of key goals for sustainable development in rural areas of Ukraine is provided, including poverty eradication, agricultural development, ensuring quality education, clean water, decent work, innovation, and infrastructure. The research identifies the importance of indicators for monitoring the achievement of goals and comparing them with the target values planned for 2030. However, considering the current situation with Russian aggression, the achievement of these goals is only possible in the long-term perspective.

Microplastics–biofilm in aquatic ecosystem: Formation, pollutants complexation, greenhouse gas emission and ecotoxicology

The omnipresent microplastics (MPs) have gradually become a significant environmental problem due to its adverse consequences for ecological systems. MPs serve as substrates for biofilms colonization, which enhances adsorption of harmful contaminants on MPs surface in the aquatic ecosystem. The present study provides a critical discussion on the mechanism involved in MPs–biofilm formation, microbial colonization and the robust factors influencing the process in the aquatic ecosystem. Subsequently, the impact of MPs–biofilm on adsorption of inorganic and organic contaminants is explored. The ecological significance of MPs–biofilm associated pollutant complex for promoting greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions from aquatic ecosystem is extensively discussed for understanding the climatic risk. Furthermore, the discussion is extended over ecotoxicological impact of MPs–biofilm on aquatic biodiversity and humans. The protective extracellular polymeric substances secreted by colonised bacteria over MPs during biofilm formation creates sticky MPs surface for heteroaggregates formation with swift adsorption of chemical compounds and microorganisms. MPs with functional aromatic groups facilitate the bacterial adhesion on the surface, but affect formation of biofilm. Alternatively, MPs–biofilm promotes the Mn and Fe hydrous oxides formation that can co–precipitate with heavy metal ions and facilitate in remediation measures. However, MPs biodegradation generates GHGs emission per unit mass, comparably more from freshwater than marine ecosystem. Considering the toxicity, MPs–biofilm induces the oxidative response in fishes, causing painful death and thus, destroys aquatic biodiversity. This study will be useful to address MPs–biofilm associated pollution scenario via trace, test and treat strategy involving future engineering research framework for ecological restoration.

Review of One Health in the Galápagos Islands (Part 1): historical perspective, invasive species, and emerging infectious diseases

The Galápagos archipelago is a vast reservoir of terrestrial and marine biodiversity, owing in large part to its relatively recent volcanic genesis and colonization by humans. This unique ecological system is particularly susceptible to human, animal, and environmental impacts. Climate change, globalization, and the blurring of human-domestic animal-wildlife interfaces are poised to bring new threats and challenges to the region. A One Health perspective that simultaneously considers human, animal, and environmental health is imperative in assessing and mitigating the challenges facing the Galápagos Islands. In Part I of this review, we provide the historical context for biodiversity in the archipelago; discuss the role of invasive species in habitat destruction, fragmentation, and competition with endemic species; and summarize the established and emerging infectious disease threats. We also discuss the imperative to implement research, surveillance, and preventative measures to identify and manage future threats from a One Health perspective, with a specific emphasis on implications for wildlife health. In Part II of this review, we outline the socioeconomic context of life in the Galápagos Islands, evaluate the current and predicted effects of climate change, and discuss direct anthropogenic factors affecting Galápagos biodiversity, such as tourism, fishing, pollution, and the illegal wildlife trade. We also examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the region. We build a cohesive picture of One Health in the Galápagos Islands by integrating past work, current needs, and emerging threats. We also consider overarching goals for conservation, ecosystem management, and socioeconomic sustainability that have been previously defined by both governmental and non-governmental stakeholders, and we identify discrete, implementable, and interdisciplinary recommendations that will facilitate achievement of those goals.

Outdoor recreation contributes to ecological changes along coastlines: Temperate United States cases highlight key impacts and ways forward

Coastal natural areas including sandy and rocky beaches comprise some of the United States’ most critical recreational and ecological resources. Through collaboration, governmental conservation agencies and non-profits forecast that over 2 billion coastline visits occur each year. Under contemporary conditions, coastal resource overuse endangers the integrity of both social and ecological systems. Existing and mounting concerns call for different coastal zone management strategies, including research into poorly understood and emerging disturbances. This work explains how recreational disturbances influence coastal environments through wildlife behavior changes, plant dynamics, and the quality of abiotic ecosystem elements. Atlantic and Pacific cases indicate that some outdoor recreation systems strongly affect habitat quality, sensitive species, and interacting communities. New insight into outdoor recreation’s contributions to ecosystem change will inform how coastal zone management agencies can implement stronger co-existence strategies for people and nature.

Parental Influence on Child Art Learning: Examining Habitus and Social Trajectories in Taiwanese and U.S. Cultural Contexts

This qualitative study examines how parental habitus in Taiwan and the United States shapes their views on the role of art in child development. Drawing on the social ecological systems framework and habitus theories, it explores parental influences on art education practices. Using a dual-case, cross-cultural approach, the study analyzes interviews, observations, and artifacts from 26 parent-participants with children aged four to seven in art programs. Findings reveal cultural, social, and educational factors influencing parental decisions. Despite cultural differences, both groups prioritize active involvement in their children’s artistic development, emphasizing art’s intrinsic value for fostering creativity, well-being, and character. The study highlights the importance of parent education and advocates for integrating parental perspectives into art education policies. This research enhances understanding of parental influences in children’s art education, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to promote art as integral to holistic child development.

The construction of international wetland urban ecological security pattern coupled with MSPA and ESF.

Creating an ecological security pattern is crucial for balancing the sustainable development of areas where human activities and the natural environment intersect. Using Hefei, an internationally recognized Wetland City, as a case study, we extracted ecological sources through ecological service function (ESF) analysis and morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) core area connectivity analysis. Based on these ecological sources, we developed an ecological resistance surface system and identified ecological corridors and nodes using circuit theory. The findings are as follows: (1) Ecological source areas: The primary ecological sources in Hefei are located in the water bodies, forested areas, and scattered grasslands in the central and eastern parts of the city. This ecological source area covers 978.96 km2, which constitutes 8.55% of the city's total area. (2) Ecological corridors: Hefei contains 43 ecological corridors with a total length of 940.3km, averaging 21.87km each. These corridors are crucial for maintaining ecological connectivity and facilitating species movement. (3) Ecological nodes: There are 13 significant ecological nodes in Hefei, including 6 ecological obstacle points and 7 ecological pinpoints. These nodes play a vital role in supporting ecological processes and ensuring habitat connectivity. (4) Evaluation metrics: The α and β values for the source identification method that integrates MSPA with ecological service functions were 2.15 and 0.8, respectively, which are higher than those of the control group. Conversely, the γ-value was 0.18, lower than that of the control group. These results indicate that the combined ecological source extraction method provides significant advantages in terms of ecological corridor integrity, connectivity, and ecological flow management.