Use Of Local Resources Research Articles

Metabolic and histopathological impact of local resource food consumption on blood markers in rats previously subjected to moderate acute malnutrition

Malnutrition is caused by dietary and nutritional imbalances that can have an impact on blood parameters and vital organs. The use of local agricultural resources for adapted diets appears to be an effective solution to post-weaning infant malnutrition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of four newborn diets made from local agricultural resources in improving biochemical, hematological, and histological parameters in rats that had previously experienced mild acute malnutrition. A total of 42 juvenile male rats, with an average age of 80 ±5 days and an average weight of 103.46 ± 5.10 g, were divided into six groups. Each group consisted of seven rats, with two control groups (LTC and LSA) and four experimental groups (LAR1A, LAR1B, LAR2A, and LAR2B). The experiment had three distinct phases: an initial adaptation period lasting 5 days, followed by a phase of inducing malnutrition lasting 19 days, and finally a phase of nutritional rehabilitation lasting 14 days. At the conclusion of the malnutrition induction and nutritional rehabilitation phases, blood samples were collected and used to evaluate biochemical and haematological markers. Kidneys and liver were removed for histological analysis.The findings revealed that the period of inducing malnutrition had a detrimental impact on several parameters, such as urea, triglyceride, total protein, C-reactive protein, albumin, ALAT, ASAT, WBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and MCV. Nevertheless, the ingestion of LAR diet derived from indigenous ingredients successfully returned all of these blood markers to the required levels for rats. Furthermore, histological examinations demonstrated that there were no kidney or liver abnormalities at the end of the trial.The LAR diets have rehabilitative effects on the biochemical and haematological parameters of rats. This suggests that these diets can be used therapeutically to treat moderate acute malnutrition and meet the nutritional needs of children aged 6 to 36 months.

Enhancing Elementary School Students' Soft Skills Through the Parent Teaching Program: Leveraging Local Resources for Optimization

This study employed an explanatory sequential design to investigate the implementation of the parent teaching program and its impact at an elementary school in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It was conducted in two stages: distributing and analyzing questionnaires to 76 students in the first stage and interviewing teachers and parents in the second stage. Data analysis employed basic statistics for quantitative analysis and thematic analysis for qualitative aspects. The results indicate that the parent teaching program at this school commences with the program's planning stage, during which teachers directly involve parents in meetings. The program is implemented after final exams or a week before the school holidays. It has a positive impact on the development of students' soft skills. Following the program's implementation, students demonstrated increased teamwork, communication, and creativity activities. Additionally, the program boosted students' self-confidence and critical thinking skills, which could benefit them in the future. It can be concluded that this program represents an innovative approach to enhancing students' soft skills by making use of local resources.

What is a sustainable diet in the Norwegian context?

Introduction: Sustainable diets promote health and wellbeing and have low environmental impact. They should be accessible, affordable, safe, equitable and culturally acceptable. Translating these general principles into Norwegian-specific dietary recommendations is essential, as foods beneficial for health tend to also be environmentally sustainable. Following the dietary recommendations is an important step towards sustainability. Aim: To identify challenges and potential solutions for transitioning towards more sustainable diets in Norway. Methods: We used scientific articles, reports, policy documents, and statistics on Norwegian food production and consumption to discuss a sustainable diet in a Norwegian context. Results and discussion: There is a large gap between dietary guidelines and actual consumption. More than 60% of the calories in the Norwegian diet are based on imported foods and feed. Changing people’s diet is identified as central in transforming the food system to become more sustainable, as is prioritizing the use of local resources. Good animal health and welfare are also fundamental premises for a sustainable food system. Conclusions: Transitioning to a more sustainable diet requires comprehensive efforts at multiple levels. There is considerable room for action to increase the use of Norwegian resources in a sustainable and responsible way. Potential strategies include reducing meat intake in favour of plant-based foods and fish, consuming more local products, decreasing food waste and supporting agricultural practices that promote environmental and social sustainability. A more sustainable diet may also lead to significantly increased self-sufficiency and food security in Norway.

Community-based natural resource management in Roatan: Strengths and challenges.

This study explored the transformative journey of community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) in the Bay Islands National Marine Park, Honduras, revealing the interplay of cooperation, funding, and communication in fostering successful conservation initiatives. Using a mixed-method approach, we investigated the historical and legislative process and enabling conditions that led to the transition to CBNRM, based on Gruber's 12 key principles. In regards to the present CBNRM system, we looked at its strengths, its challenges, and whether its functioning is seen as satisfying by local resource-users. Findings showed that key CBNRM principles-including an enabling environment, conflict resolution, research-based decision-making, public trust, and monitoring-fostered the transition. Furthermore, satisfaction with reef management and perceived patrol effectiveness, which are pivotal aspects in CBNRM, exceeded 70% in Roatan. Challenges such as strengthening local institutions and enhancing compliance were identified. Nonetheless, co-managers are actively working to resolve these challenges by focusing on enforcement, diverse funding acquisition mechanisms and community participation. The study underscores the pivotal role of local NGOs and collaborative committees in facilitating successful CBNRM. By providing evidence-based insights, we highlight the efficacy of multilevel, co-management models in resource management and emphasize the value of adaptable strategies. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of CBNRM dynamics in Latin America and the Caribbean, which may ultimately foster successful conservation initiatives in the Global South.

Моделі відновлення транспортно-логістичної інфраструктури скотарства на деокупованих територіях україни

In the conditions of de-occupation and restoration of the territories of Ukraine, an important task is the restoration of the transport and logistics infrastructure for the efficient functioning of the livestock industry. The study covers the analysis of existing problems related to the destruction of infrastructure due to military actions and proposes a set of models that contribute to the rapid and efficient recovery of this industry. The proposed models in the article are aimed at restoring production capacities, improving the efficiency of logistics processes, and ensuring the sustainable development of cattle breeding in the de-occupied territories of Ukraine. A comprehensive approach to solving the problems of infrastructure restoration will not only restore economic activity but also contribute to the long-term development of the regions. The de-occupation of the territories of Ukraine affected by military operations creates new challenges for the recovery of various sectors of the economy, including cattle breeding. The transport and logistics infrastructure, which is critical to the functioning of this industry, has suffered significant destruction. Therefore, restoring this infrastructure is critically important for ensuring the region’s food security, economic growth, and stability. Optimizing logistics routes is an essential component of infrastructure recovery. New realities of safety and accessibility must be considered, including alternative delivery routes and the use of local resources. Restoring the transport and logistics infrastructure of cattle breeding in the de-occupied territories of Ukraine is extremely important for the economic revival of the regions. The application of complex recovery models, considering modern technologies and innovative approaches, will ensure the sustainable development of agriculture and raise the standard of living of the local population. In the above-mentioned scientific study, all the main challenges and critical limitations related to the restoration and development of the transport infrastructure of Ukraine are highlighted. Keywords: transport and logistics chains, de-occupied territories, economic management, transport infrastructure, model, technologies, strategy.

Sosialisasi Makanan Bergizi Puding Daun Kelor (Moringa Oleifera) Pencegah Stunting Oleh Kelompok KKN Universitas Negeri Padang di Kelurahan Durian II Kecamatan Barangin Kota Sawahlunto

This article discusses the socialization and distribution of moringa leaf pudding as an effort to prevent stunting carried out by KKN Students of Padang State University in Durian II Village, Sawahlunto City. This activity aims to increase public knowledge about stunting and the benefits of moringa leaves for toddler nutrition. Socialization was carried out to mothers during posyandu activities by providing education about stunting and the nutritional content of moringa leaves. Students also made and distributed moringa leaf pudding to toddlers and mothers. As a result, the socialization and distribution of pudding received a positive response from mothers and children. The audience was interested in moringa leaf pudding and was interested in making it themselves. This activity is expected to increase awareness of the importance of balanced nutrition to prevent stunting, as well as provide alternative solutions to the use of local resources in the stunting eradication program in the area.

Persistent Illegal Hunting of Wildlife in an African Landscape: Insights from a Study in the Luangwa Valley, Zambia.

Decades of illegal hunting (poaching) have adversely affected wildlife populations and thereby limited sustainable wildlife conservation in the Luangwa Valley, Zambia. Despite intervention efforts to address the problem, the illegal hunting of wildlife has persisted. Therefore, this study was conducted to understand the persistence of illegal hunting by investigating the drivers of poaching and intervention measures using a mixed methods approach. Stratified random sampling was used to collect data from 346 respondents through structured questionnaires. Purposive sampling was used to collect data through nine focus group discussions and three in-depth interviews with experts. The study revealed that persistent illegal hunting was mainly driven by people's critical need for survival and sustaining their livelihoods and not by inadequate law enforcement as presumed by resource managers. Although law enforcement was the most prevalent intervention measure, it did not deter local illegal hunters because their main motivations for poaching were not effectively addressed. The key implication of these findings is that where the illegal harvesting of natural resources in protected areas by local resource users is driven by people's critical need for survival and a livelihood, which is ineffectively addressed, illegal harvesting may persist even with increased law enforcement. This study provides empirical evidence, novel conceptual knowledge and an understanding of how prevalent drivers of poaching and other factors may have influenced persistent illegal hunting in the Luangwa Valley.

Biofortified biscuits with indigenous plants: An innovative approach to prevent stunting in early childhood

Background: Increasing human living standards is directly proportional to demands for the quality of public health. Prevalence of stunting in Indonesia is ranked fifth in the world with a figure reaching 37.2%. Therefore, stunting is 1 of 5 health problems that the government is focusing on solving. This growth and development disorder is characterized by the body size of the baby/toddler below standard as well as delays in cognitive and psychomotor abilities. Stunting in children is the impact of nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy and the first 1000 days of life. Important micronutrients that have the potential to reduce the risk of stunting are iron and folic acid. The majority of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers with high school education or below tend not to pay attention to their intake of these 2 micronutrients, so deficiencies often occur. Pregnancy/breastfeeding supplements on the market are also expensive. Facts show that cassava leaves (Manihot esculenta) and winged bean seeds (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) are local agricultural resources that are rich in iron and folic acid. The production of biscuits to prevent stunting from these 2 vegetable sources is certainly very promising and worth developing. The aim of writing this scientific work is to determine the right biscuit formulation so that it is suitable to be used as a biscuit to prevent stunting for the wider community. Methods: Making biscuits needs to be preceded by making cassava leaf paste and winged bean seed flour and then determining various formulations. Variations in winged bean seed flour formulation: cassava leaf paste, namely F1 (20:10), F2 (25:15), F3 (30:10). Biscuits are made using the cream method, namely mixing sugar, skim milk, margarine and egg yolks until homogeneous then adding wheat flour, winged bean seed flour, cassava leaf paste, water and leavening agent. The dough is rolled, molded and baked at 170oC for 30 minutes. Finding: after carrying out organoleptic tests to measure product quality and determine the best formulation, it turned out that F2 was the biscuit formulation that the panelists liked most. Conclusion : The development of stunting prevention biscuits from cassava leaves and winged bean seeds is a potential solution. The next step is to disseminate this product as part of a stunting prevention strategy in the community. Novelty/Originality of this Study: The use of local agricultural resources, specifically winged bean seeds and cassava leaves, to develop a nutritious and affordable biscuit aimed at preventing stunting is an innovative approach that not only addresses the chronic malnutrition problem but also supports local economies by utilizing underutilized crops.

Architecture and local resources: project experiences in Vorarlberg

The Land of Vorarlberg is Austria’s second smallest but most densely populated province after Vienna. Known for its innovative timber architecture, Vorarlberg’s approach integrates ecological, economic, functional, and aesthetic considerations, as championed by Wolfgang Ritsch of the Vorarlberger Architektur Institut (VAI). The region’s timber industry has faced challenges, including local provincialism and modernist material preferences, but gained prominence in the 1990s with the establishment of the Baukünstler group and the Vorarlberger Bauschule, recognised for their contributions to timber construction. Key to this development is Vorarlberg’s significant woodland, covering one-third of its area, and its commitment to sustainable forest management. Regional timber architecture aligns with the principles of appropriate technology, emphasizing eco-responsible, community-driven innovations. Vorarlberg’s timber architecture exemplifies a collaborative effort between designers and craftsmen, focusing on the use of local resources and high construction quality. The essay represents the introduction of notable projects including multifunctional public buildings, schools, offices, and residential complexes, reflecting the region’s commitment to sustainable development and architectural excellence. This ongoing innovation in wood-integrated solutions reinforces Vorarlberg as a hub for eco-friendly and culturally resonant architectural practices.

RESILIENCE AND LESSONS LEARNED IN COLOMBIAN FAMILY FARMING DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

<p><strong>Background: </strong>A health crisis exposes people to food vulnerability by restricting the mobilization and commercial exchange of food. During the COVID-19 pandemic, an ample food supply was available to ensure the basic consumption of the population, prompting two questions: What resilient practices did farmers adopt to produce under conditions of high sanitary restriction, and what lessons did they derive to confront future crises? <strong>Objective:</strong> The article presents and collects the experiences of 59 small family farmers in Colombia in implementing good practices for economic and financial resilience and the lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic, constituting a new source of knowledge to understand human behaviors and actions in the face of adversity and the experiential learnings gained to act in future crisis scenarios. <strong>Methodology</strong>: To characterize the resilient practices of agricultural producers in the department of Norte de Santander, Colombia, amid the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, researchers conducted interviews with 59 smallholder farmers from 12 municipalities. The study encompassed 11 agricultural products and 6 animal products, ultimately identifying three overarching categories: economic resilience, financial resilience, and lessons learned.<strong> Main Results: </strong>The results indicate strategies for diversification of production, use of local resources, solidarity-based family work, short marketing chains and an economy of scarcity in family spending. <strong>Implications: </strong>These lessons can inform future policies and practices to better prepare for and respond to similar challenges. <strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study's findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and small farmers, emphasizing the importance of local resource utilization, community cooperation, and adaptive strategies to enhance resilience and sustain livelihoods during crises. </p>

The Ironberry Plan: an Electric and Steel-making Way to Build a Science Station on Mars

This paper introduces the Ironberry Plan. This practical plan leads to the construction of a science station in the iron region of the Meridiani Planum (IRoM), Mars. It also enables the continuation of NASA’s Water Strategy, the beginning of astronomy from Mars, the landing of humans at IRoM and the beginning of continuous human habitation there. A focus of the plan is to provide abundant electricity on Mars through an intense use of local resources. The characteristic early steps of the Ironberry Plan are: 1. The robotic harvesting and processing of a superb iron ore at IRoM; 2. The use of Mars-optimized, robot-controlled steel-making and manufacture of steel parts; 3. At least for some years, a deliberate push for mutually feeding exponential growth in electricity generation, steel-making and steel manufacture, where early steel manufacture is focused on making more electrical generation equipment; 4. Using the rapidly growing power capacity and advanced robotics and processing of local sediments, the start of many more foundational activities (i.e., water liberation, sulfur-concrete construction, multi-material manufacture, agriculture and more); 5. Using 1-4, the building of a science station at IRoM while also converting excavated sediment caverns into underground, radiation protected spaces for the science station. Keywords: Ironberries, Iron Region of the Meridiani Planum (IRoM), Science Station, Abundant Electricity, Steel-making

Research on the production of sorbent based on bentonite clay for wastewater treatment from chemical industries

In our country, the problem of water purification remains urgent, with the growth of external factors contributing to this, which can include an increase in the number of industrial enterprises, the development of agriculture, urban growth and others. To solve the problem of water purification it is economically advantageous to create new sorbents, with the available resources in our country.For the processing of of bentonite clay under experimental conditions, instrumental test methods were chosen using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) of the Jeol JSM-6490l V brand, a multi-parameter portable cyberscanner (PCD 650 Eutech) and a Q-1500 Derivatograph. In this article, we studied the bentonite of the Darbaza deposit. For physico-chemical analysis of clay from the Darbaza deposit, a specially selected sample was crushed, and sieved and its chemical composition was determined. Results. Based on the results of instrumental studies, the elemental and mineralogical composition of bentonite clay from the Darbazinsky deposit was determined using a scanning electron microscope JSM-6490l V (Jeol, Japan) using the energy-dispersive method. The resulting sorbent based on bentonite clay has a high sorption capacity and is recommended for use in the treatment of wastewater from chemical industries. The resulting sorbent based on bentonite clay from the Darbaza deposit makes it possible to purify wastewater from phosphate production from phosphate and other ions up to 60%. The developed sorbent based on bentonite clay has environmental and economic efficiency and connections with the use of local natural resources. Thus, it should be noted that for adsorption treatment of wastewater from chemical industries with a high degree, it is possible to use effective sorbents based on bentonine clays from the Darbaza deposit. It should also be noted that the use of bentonite clays for water purification by the sorption process is an effective and affordable alternative to adsorbents that show high adsorption capacity for various compounds.

Envisaging Participatory Management in Protected Areas: Local Response to Proposed Conservation Actions in Relation to Environmental Orientation

Involving local people in natural area management is very important to address the complexity of environmental management issues for the sustainable use of local resources. Participatory methods require the contribution of local stakeholders in decision-making. Mapping the environmental views of local communities allows for the detection of aspects that could facilitate management efforts. This research—in the frame of the Skyros LIFE project and the PAMNATURA project—measures the local acceptability of the conservation actions proposed by the LIFE project in Skyros island (Greece), in relation to recording local people’s environmental orientation using the 15-item revised New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) scale. The research was carried out by means of questionnaires. The LIFE project proposed actions were grouped into three categories according to their theme, i.e., promoting (a) nature protection, (b) agro-pastoralism and (c) ecotourism. The sample seems to largely agree with the LIFE project proposals, while the results showed high scores for most of the NEP scale items, implying pro-environmental beliefs, though there appears to be disagreement or neutrality regarding a few items. The local acceptability of the proposed actions was found to correlate to local people’s environmental concern measured through the NEP scale. Drawing on the results, the implementation of actions related directly or indirectly to economic activities and the preservation of traditional activities, as well as environmental education and interactive informing and consultation, could enhance local participation. Skyros island seems to offer an appropriate social background for applying participatory and adaptive management and implementing conservation programs.

Transcriptome sequencing reveals non-coding RNAs respond to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus and Haemophilus parasuis co-infection in Kele piglets.

Co-infection with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and Haemophilus parasuis (HPS) has severely restricted the healthy development of pig breeding. Exploring disease resistance of non-coding RNAs in pigs co-infected with PRRSV and HPS is therefore critical to complement and elucidate the molecular mechanisms of disease resistance in Kele piglets and to innovate the use of local pig germplasm resources in China. RNA-seq of lungs from Kele piglets with single-infection of PRRSV or HPS and co-infection of both pathogens was performed. Two hundred and twenty-five differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DElncRNAs) and 30 DEmicroRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified and characterized in the PRRSV and HPS co-infection (PRRSV-HPS) group. Compared with the single-infection groups, 146 unique DElncRNAs, 17 unique DEmiRNAs, and 206 target differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the PRRSV-HPS group. The expression patterns of 20 DEmiRNAs and DElncRNAs confirmed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were consistent with those determined by high-throughput sequencing. In the PRRSV-HPS group, the target DEGs were enriched in eight immune Gene Ontology terms relating to two unique DEmiRNAs and 16 DElncRNAs, and the unique target DEGs participated the host immune response to pathogens infection by affecting 15 immune-related Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment pathways. Notably, competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks of different groups were constructed, and the ssc-miR-671-5p miRNA was validated as a potential regulatory factor to regulate DTX4 and AEBP1 genes to achieve innate antiviral effects and inhibit pulmonary fibrosis by dual-luciferase reporter assays. These results provided insight into further study on the molecular mechanisms of resistance to PRRSV and HPS co-infection in Kele piglets.

THE ‘TREES FROM THE SEA’ CORAL ARCHITECTRURES AND INDIAN OCEAN MARITIME RESOURCES

This article presents the author’s experiences, over the past twenty-five years, in coral stone architecture. The use of marine porite coral is a technology that unites different cultures around the Indian Ocean, from the Maldives to the Swahili coast in Africa. The paper focuses on the use of environmental constraints and local resources for the construction of maritime mosques and coral buildings. The pre-Islamic origin of coral architecture is located between India and Indonesia around the first century AD. The diffusion of this technology was supported by Abbasid travellers and merchants in the Western Indian Ocean, and in Africa around the 9th century, as well as its globalisation under the Buwayhids and the Fatimids in the 11th century. This article shows how international maritime trade and Muslim diasporas disseminate a unique technology and how local populations assimilate material cultures, new technologies, new building material and how they share a common Indian Ocean identity. Keywords: Coral Stone, Indian Ocean, Swahili, Maldives, Islamic, Abbasids, Buddhism

Challenges in urban-rural food supply chains for disaster resilience in Nepal

Urban and rural areas are interconnected in fulfilling the food demands of both sides. However, both unprecedented and predictable disasters are disrupting the food service. To address this issue, this paper discusses the need and significance of urban-rural coordination, which promotes use of local resources, solving direct and indirect problems related to food. A smooth food system chain with adequate storage capacity, transportation, and food quality is essential not only during normal days but also throughout times of disaster. Therefore, this research aims to identify the factors disrupting the food system chain in the mid-hill area of Nepal. It explores the interconnection between urban and rural areas in maintaining the food system chain and investigates ways to improve it from a disaster resilience perspective. Kathmandu and Melamchi, urban and rural areas in Nepal are taken for the study. After completing interviews with disaster victims, focus group discussion was conducted with farmers, municipality government officers, disaster experts, and local people. Additionally, further discussion held with traders who are mainly involved in the food system chain from the disaster resilience perspective. Grains, milk, and vegetables primarily flow from rural areas to Kathmandu, while manufactured goods are predominantly supplied from urban areas. The food supply chain services are generally disrupted every monsoon season due to floods and were severely affected during the 2021 flood in the Melamchi area. The results of the study are clustered into five categories, depending on the city region's food system cycle.

Navigating Land Conservation, Utilization, and Market Solutions: Insights from the Lanyang River Watershed, Taiwan

In the current fraught relationship between nature and human society, land conservation and utilization have spawned intensive conflicts that require mediation. The present study explores this issue of coordination between nature and society in a fragile watershed located in northeastern Taiwan: the Lanyang River Watershed. Land zoning in this area has been historically classified and legally implemented, and additional development is constrained by an application review process. Currently, additional land utilization is still in demand in sensitive areas of this watershed, such as for mining and tilling. Due to the geographically, geologically, and climatically fragile characteristics of the watershed, the hillside residents have benefited from the conservation of nature with comprehensive ecosystem services but are at the forefront of the loss of life and property caused by forest ecosystem degradation. They are one of the key local resource users and main stakeholders. Applying the contingent valuation method to survey the hillside residents, the present study assessed the economic value they receive from the comprehensive ecosystem services offered by the natural forest ecosystems. Their opinions are explored using a survey on their awareness of ecosystem damage, their opinions on damage compensation, and on the feasible compensation channels for damage. As the study results ascertained the high value of the comprehensive ecosystem services continuously delivered by the conserved forest ecosystem, the study affirmed that conservation in the area classified and zoned as sensitive is an economic beneficial policy. With a high regard for ecosystem services and awareness of the impact of degradation and of the general agreement for the feasibility of channels of damage compensation, the continuity of conservation for these comprehensive ecosystem services is the preferred strategy for the local hillside residents. To emphasize this further, the opinions of the local community at the intersection of nature and society, where there is a delineated land zoning framework, strongly favor conservation over intensive resource exploitation and agricultural expansion, making further development an unfavorable strategy.

Bryofloristic diversity and conservation value of a protected area in the Brazilian semi-arid region

We collected 137 samples (71—rainy season; 66—dry) for the Brazilian state of Paraíba. With a total of 23 species (one hornwort, 14 mosses and nine liverworts), we updated the bryoflora of Paraíba, a hotspot of bryophytes, by one rare species (Weissia controversa), increasing the total number of species to 188. The floristic composition in the Poeta e Repentista Juvenal de Oliveira State Park is affected by chronic anthropogenic disturbances, and is typical of arid environments, regardless of the season. This indicates homogenization of the habitat from the loss of ecological niche due to the disordered use of local natural resources. However, the record of Philonotis hastata, categorized as Near Threatened by the IUCN; the geographic expansion of a species; and the presence of rare species for Brazil reinforce the importance of the Conservation Unit for bryophyte biodiversity. Despite the floristic composition, we identified that interpretations about biology, environmental functionality and species distribution are more consistent for environmental assessment and decision-making on conservation actions.

Advanced utilization of satellite and governmental data for determining the coverage and condition of green areas in Poland: An experimental statistics supporting the Statistics Poland

Statistics Poland utilizes Earth Observation and in-situ data to assess green areas, aiming to derive vital information on natural capital statistics and human well-being. This is essential for informed decision-making and sustainable development. Improving regional well-being statistics is a priority due to Poland's low rankings in environmental well-being indicators. To overcome challenges in obtaining comprehensive data at the commune level, the study introduces a new and innovative system for monitoring green areas. This system employs Sentinel-2 satellite data, combined with Copernicus vegetation and phenology products in order to determine extent and condition of green areas. In addition, the applied land cover product (Dynamic World) and national vector database of topographic features (BDOT10k) contributes to the quality and accuracy of the analyses carried out. The system yields two pivotal indicators: one delineating the proportional coverage of green areas within communes boundaries, and the other elucidating the state and health of these delineated areas. A key highlight of the system is its innovative use of local resources and the Google Earth Engine application to observe green areas at a 10-meter resolution at the commune level, particularly in major cities in Poland. These observations are crucial for the Polish Public Services Monitoring System (SMUP), providing comprehensive local-level evaluation services. The research outcome consists of a comparison between the extent of green areas delineated by public administration at the commune level and the extent of green areas determined using a newly proposed method, which relies on satellite imagery from the Copernicus program. The results indicate variability between these two datasets, depending on different forms of land cover within each administrative unit. The most consistent data is derived from large urban agglomerations in Poland.

Decolonizing the Teaching and Learning of Indigenous Nguni Music Instruments in Higher Institutions of Learning in South Africa

This is an ethnographic study which was carried out to determine appropriate and effective models, approaches, strategies and techniques, for the transmission of Indigenous African Music (IAM), as practised in the communities of Tsembeyi village in the Eastern Cape Province and Impunga Village in KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa to the institutions of higher learning. The research explored pedagogical intervention measures for transplanting the teaching and learning of indigenous Nguni music instruments at Walter Sisulu University. This enquiry is underpinned by the praxial and Ubuntu theories, which ensure that participants are practically involved in doing, making, and experiencing learning as a collective. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm entrenched in a qualitative approach. Semi-structured interviews and participant observation were administered to collect data from 13 preservice music teachers including the main researcher and 3 community music experts drawn from the amaXhosa and AmaZulu, who are part of the Nguni nation in the Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The thematic analysis revealed that the importance of engagement of the community in teaching and learning Nguni music instruments, underlying philosophical knowledge, and the understanding and approach to the construction and playing of IAM instruments. The authors argue for the possibility of breaking down the barriers of marginalization, and discrimination and celebrating human capabilities through the use of local resources and engagement of the community, thus, striking a meaningful and appropriate balance between the approaches that are used in traditional communities and institutions of higher learning. Keywords: Decolonization, Transmission, Curriculum, Indigenous African Music, and Nguni.