Rural Communities Research Articles

THE SHREDDED FARMAER

Abstract : The Shredded Farmer represents a novel archetype within the agricultural community, blending traditional farming practices with modern fitness culture. This paper explores the emergence of the Shredded Farmer phenomenon, examining the motivations, challenges, and implications for sustainable agriculture and rural communities. Rooted in generations of agricultural tradition, the Shredded Farmer embodies a deep connection to the land and a commitment to physical fitness. By integrating rigorous labor with exercise routines, they transform the farm into a personal gym, sculpting their bodies while tending to the land. Furthermore, the Shredded Farmer champions sustainable farming practices, demonstrating the interconnectedness between human health and environmental stewardship. Through qualitative interviews, quantitative analysis, and literature review, this research aims to understand how the Shredded Farmer is reshaping perceptions of agriculture, fitness, and sustainability in the 21st century. Index Terms – HTML, CSS, JavaScript. Bootstrap, MySQL, PHP.

Ethnoveterinary treatment of livestock in Ghana: Cultural importance and consensus on plants used

The traditional free-range system of livestock rearing contributes to the socioeconomic well-being of most rural households in Ghana. The traditional management system exposes livestock to a high disease incidence, but healthcare support for animal production is limited. Ethnoveterinary practice is an integral part of livestock treatment, particularly in rural communities where veterinary services are poor. However, documentation of the plants used for ethnoveterinary treatment of livestock is scant in the country. Given the dearth of information on ethnoveterinary treatment, this study aimed to document the cultural significance and level of agreement of plant species used for treating livestock ailments in the Adaklu district. Ethnoveterinary data were collected from 120 respondents using semi-structured questionnaires. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices were used to ascertain the most culturally significant plant species for livestock healing. It was found that 38 plant species were used to treat various livestock ailments. Ethnobotanical indices revealed that Mangifera indica, Elaeis guineensis, Khaya senegalensis, Spondias mombin, and Physalis peruviana were the most culturally significant plant species for treating livestock ailments. Mangifera indica was found to be the most versatile species for treating livestock ailments and had the highest cultural importance (CI). This study reveals the high cultural importance of plants in the Adaklu district to improve livestock healthcare. The perceived efficacy influences the selection and utilization of a resource for folk medicine. The study recommends isolating and characterizing the active compounds in the most culturally significant plants and testing the properties on the medical conditions attributed to these plants.

Global impact of water hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) on rural communities and mitigation strategies: a systematic review.

The proliferation of water hyacinths (Eichhornia crassipes), recognized as one of the most invasive aquatic plants worldwide, presents profound ecological and socioeconomic challenges across diverse ecosystems, particularly in rural communities. This systematic review examines the extensive global impacts and explores various mitigation strategies to manage and utilize this pervasive species. Ecologically, water hyacinth disrupts aquatic ecosystems by depleting oxygen levels, obstructing sunlight, and displacing native species, which in turn compromises water quality and biodiversity. Economically, its rapid spread affects agriculture, fishing, and navigation, imposing significant costs on local economies and livelihoods. In response, this review assesses integrated management approaches combining mechanical, chemical, and biological controls that have been implemented to curb its growth. Moreover, innovative strategies that repurpose the biomass for bioenergy, handicrafts, and bio-remediation are discussed, highlighting their potential to transform an ecological menace into an economic resource. These strategies not only mitigate the plant's negative impacts but also contribute to sustainable development by providing economic opportunities and enhancing ecosystem services. This review stresses the necessity for a holistic approach to water hyacinth management that is adaptive, sustainable, and beneficial to affected communities.

The Epidemic of Congenital Syphilis in the Indigenous and Rural Populations of South Dakota.

From 2020 to 2023, South Dakota witnessed a substantial increase in cases of congenital syphilis (CS), with the highest rates identified in rural and Native American (NA) communities. Here, we discuss 3 severe cases of CS in premature infants born to NA individuals and communities in South Dakota with poor access to prenatal care. The infants in these 3 cases presented with varying clinical conditions, including respiratory failure, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, severe direct hyperbilirubinemia, feeding intolerance, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Lack of prenatal care and other systemic health disparities likely contributed to the increased disease burden. For NA communities, rurality, limited resources, systemic racism, historical trauma, and lack of trust in medical institutions likely contribute to inadequate prenatal care. All 3 of these cases also occurred in pregnant people with a present or history of substance use disorders, which may have led to further hesitancy to seek care because of fear of prosecution. To combat the rising number of syphilis and CS cases, we advocate for new and continued outreach that provides education about and testing for sexually transmitted diseases to NA and rural populations, increased care coordination, the integration of point-of-care testing and treatment strategies in lower resource centers, and legislative allocation of additional resources to engage pregnant people with or at risk for substance use disorders.

Bioethical Analysis of the Socio-Environmental Conflicts of a Pig Industry on a Chilean Rural Community

Bioethical Analysis of the Socio-Environmental Conflicts of a Pig Industry on a Chilean Rural Community

Microbiological and Physicochemical Quality of Groundwater Sources in Wamakko, Nigeria

Water is an indispensable natural resource and have remained a cause for worry in both urban and rural communities in Nigeria. A total of 15 samples were obtained from different groundwater sources in Wamakko, LGA, Sokoto State, Nigeria. Physicochemical and microbiological analysis were performed on the samples to ascertain changes in the proxies and presence of indicator organisms in the water samples. The pH of the groundwater samples obtained from point 6 was observed to have a pH of 5.6 this index was far below WHO /NIS/ NAFDAC specification for potable water. Total dissolved solids (TDS) of the groundwater samples ranged from 57.6mg/L to 529.96 mg/L while samples obtained from sampling point 7 had the lowest concentration values. The concentration of phosphates in the groundwater was observed to range from 0.16±0.01a to 5.21±0.12h mg/L. Pearson Correlation showed strong correlation between turbidity and BOD of groundwater at r=0.800, Salinity and hardness of the groundwater with a correlation coefficient of 0.88 at p-value < 0.0. The samples obtained from point 6 were observed to have a fecal coliform count of 6 MPN/100ml and 40MPN/100ml for total coliform The samples obtained from samples obtained from points 1 and 4 had a bacterial load of 1.1x105CFU/ml while the samples obtained from point 14 had a bacterial load of 1.3 x104 CFU/ml The microbial diversity ascertained by the biochemical evaluation showed that the bacterial flora obtained from point 14 were Pseudomonas, Salmonella sp., E. coli and Enterobacter sp. The groundwater sources were tained by the anthropogenic activities in the Wamakko LGA as this have shown a shift in the microbiological qualities of the water samples. There is need for Sokoto State Government to look into the remote cause of the water pollution and come up with a risk-oriented strategies to stem these tides.

Participatory Learning for Rural Community Empowerment

Participatory Learning for Rural Community Empowerment

Participatory Learning for Rural Community Empowerment

Participatory Learning for Rural Community Empowerment

Bioremediation techniques for the management of agricultural soils contamination by oil spilling

Soil and land contamination as a result of diverse industrial activities, particularly oil spilling, pesticides and disinfectants, has affected quality of life, ecosystems and overall agricultural activities. Bioremediation is a scientific method in which biological microorganisms are used to remove contaminants via metabolic processes. This procedure has the advantage of providing the transformation and/or even removal of organic and inorganic pollutants, even at low absorption. This paper specifically focused on addressing the theories and models of some techniques involved in the processes of bioremediation. These techniques can be divided into two types: in situ and ex situ. The in situ techniques are defined as those that are applied to soil and groundwater at the site with minimal disturbance, whereas the ex situ techniques are those models that are applied to soil and groundwater at the site that have been removed from the site via excavation (soil) or pumping (water). It is believed that successful treatment of contaminated environments, particularly those polluted by oil spilling and dripping, requires an integrated and well-planned effort. This treatment will help improve the environmental soil quality for diverse agricultural activities and ensure better lifestyles among the rural communities where the activities of oil industries are present.

Investigation of Hepatitis B Virus in the Body of the Bed Bug Cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) Fed on Infected Human Blood by RT-PCR Method

Background Bed bugs (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) are insects found in abundance among urban and rural communities. Both male and female bed bugs thrive on human blood. The main aim of this study was to detect Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) in the body of the bed bug, Cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae), fed on naturally infected patient blood by Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) Methods In this experiment, C. hemipterus bugs nourished once with HBV-positive blood were examined by RT-PCR at 1, 2, 3, 7- and 10 days post-engorgement. Bloodsucking was performed using an artificial membrane feeding system. RNA was extracted from infected bed bugs, and cDNA was then synthesized to monitor the HBV mRNA. Results The RT-PCR test results for infected specimens were positive on the first to third days post-bloodsucking. Moreover, the sample on days 7-10 was negative for HBV. This study also revealed that the breeding of bed bugs under laboratory conditions lasted for one week from the first to fifth nymph stages. Conclusion Since HBV mRNA was detected in infected bed bugs until the third-day post-engorgement, it is likely that they potentially transmitted HBV. It is thus indispensable to conduct more thorough research in the future.

Point-of-care STI testing in rural settings: A feasibility project.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to be a health concern in the United States, particularly in rural settings. Point-of-care (POC) STI testing is useful in overcoming access barriers in these settings. The purpose of this project was to implement POC STI testing to increase access to care in rural settings and test the feasibility of this model. Six mobile health clinics were implemented by a nurse-led team in three rural communities in the Blackbelt region of Alabama utilizing the Binx IO® to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Mobile clinic volunteers participated in focus groups to determine provider satisfaction with clinic workflow. The mobile health clinics were a feasible way to increase access to STI testing in rural settings with reported provider and client satisfaction in work flow.

Prevalence of chronic diarrhea and its association with obesity in a Chinese community-based population.

Epidemiological data on chronic diarrhea in the Chinese population are lacking, and the association between obesity and chronic diarrhea in East Asian populations remains inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of chronic diarrhea and its association with obesity in a representative community-dwelling Chinese population. This cross-sectional study was based on a multistage, randomized cluster sampling involving 3503 residents aged 20-69years from representative urban and rural communities in Beijing. Chronic diarrhea was assessed using the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), and obesity was determined based on body mass index (BMI). Logistic regression analysis and restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate the relationship between obesity and chronic diarrhea. The standardized prevalence of chronic diarrhea in the study population was 12.88%. The average BMI was 24.67kg/m2. Of all the participants, 35.17% (1232/3503) of participants were classified as overweight and 16.13% (565/3503) as obese. After adjustment for potential confounders, individuals with obesity had an increased risk of chronic diarrhea as compared to normal weight individuals (odds ratio=1.58, 95% confidence interval: 1.20-2.06). A nonlinear association between BMI and the risk of chronic diarrhea was observed in community residents of males and the overall participant group (P=0.026 and 0.017, respectively). This study presents initial findings on the prevalence of chronic diarrhea among residents of Chinese communities while offering substantiated evidence regarding the significant association between obesity and chronic diarrhea. These findings offer a novel perspective on gastrointestinal health management.

Assessing awareness and treatment knowledge of preventable blindness in rural and urban South African communities.

Preventable blindness is a global public health problem. In South Africa (SA) the prevalence of blindness is increasing, with a higher proportion of cataracts than the global norm, and a large rural population with limited access to specialised eye-care services. To determine the level of knowledge regarding preventable blindness and treatment options within a rural and urban population. Rural and urban areas in the Eastern Cape, SA. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 309 participants. Questionnaires were administered by fieldworkers at the different sites. Proportions were calculated and χ2 tests done to determine whether there was any significant relationship between the categorical variables. Data analysis was done using Stata version 15. Participants were almost equally distributed among the urban (49.2%) and rural areas (50.8%). Both groups had a similar composition of males and females. Most participants had completed high school. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the urban and rural participants' knowledge about the causes of blindness: refractive error χ 2 (1, N=30) = 8.20, p<0.05, and cataract χ2 (1, N=28) = 8.64, p<0.05. The top two differences in the views between urban and rural participants regarding symptoms associated with eye problems (p<0.05) were: 'people who need spectacles have double vision', χ2 (1, N=122) = 28.19; and 'people who need spectacles squint their eyes', χ2 (1, N=124) = 17.37. The majority of urban participants reported opting to go to a private optometrist for eye health services, while the majority of rural participants would go to a pharmacy. Both groups were aware of the role of ageing in blindness. Urban participants in this study appeared to be more knowledgeable than rural participants about the causes and symptoms of blindness and its treatment options. These findings should provide some value to those who provide primary healthcare services in rural areas as there is a clear opportunity for patient education and health promotion regarding the causes and symptoms of these common preventable causes of blindness. Addressing this knowledge gap regarding the causes and symptoms of blindness and the treatment options is a critical first step for awareness programmes in rural areas. Without this, there will be little demand for any treatment or service. Future studies are needed to understand which health promotion interventions are effective in preventable blindness in rural populations.

Design of an advanced solar cooker with integrated self-powered active sun tracking and dual heating facilitated for rural communities

Design of an advanced solar cooker with integrated self-powered active sun tracking and dual heating facilitated for rural communities

Perubahan Perilaku Masyarakat Dalam Menghadapi Transformasi Digital Dalam Penyiaran Televisi (Studi Kasus Mengenai Kebiasaan Baru Masyarakat Di Desa Cingcin Dalam Menyikapi Digitalisasi Penyairan Televisi)

The purpose is to investigate the changing behavior of people in Cingcin Village in the face of digital transformation in television broadcasting. The research method used is qualitative, with data collection through field studies, observations, and interviews. The results revealed that the shift from analog to digital broadcasting has affected people's habits of enjoying television programming. There are variations in preferences for accessing television content, with some people preferring digital platforms because of ease of access, while others remain loyal to conventional television because of better image and sound quality. Besides, there are changes in social interaction, with some people watching more often with friends and family, while others prefer watching alone. A shift in the culture of watching television has also occurred, where the focus is now more fragmented and not just focused on the main time. The results also show that the residents of Cingcin Village have adopted a new habit in the face of digital television broadcasting. However, better infrastructure, education, and content diversification are needed to facilitate this transition. Better mobile application development and sustained analysis and monitoring are also needed to understand behavioral changes in deeper societies. Thus, the study provides valuable insights into how rural communities adapt to technological developments in television broadcasting and offers a number of suggestions for increasing the adoption of digital technology among indigenous populations.

Policy, access, and resource factors as correlates of functionality of secondary education in rural communities

Policy, access, and resource factors as correlates of functionality of secondary education in rural communities

Strategi Komunikasi Politik Pemerintahan Daerah dalam Meningkatkan Partisipasi Masyarakat Pedesaan (Studi pada Desa Karangsari Kec. Bantur Kab. Malang)

This research aims to analyze the political communication strategies implemented by regional governments to increase participation in rural communities, especially in Karangsari Village, Bantur District, Malang Regency. The research method used is a case study with a qualitative approach. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, observation and documentation. The research results show that the Karangsari Village government uses various communication strategies, including direct outreach, use of local media, and community forums. This strategy has succeeded in increasing community awareness and participation in various village development programs. The key factors that support the success of this strategy are community trust in village leaders, openness of information, and active involvement of various stakeholders. This research provides important insights for other local governments in designing and implementing effective political communication strategies to increase rural community participation.

Implementasi Pembangunan Infrastruktur di Desa Cinta Rakyat Kecamatan Percut Sei Tuan Kabupaten Deli Serdang

The development of housing infrastructure through individual participation and community participation in local communities becomes infrastructure that builds the economy of the Cinta Rakyat Village community. Currently, infrastructure development in Cinta Rakyat Village is experiencing good progress, driven by the local community's need for good infrastructure. This research is in accordance with qualitative methods with a descriptive approach. Qualitative research was chosen as the type of research used in this research. The choice of qualitative research is because there are several factors that take precedence in terms of elaborating and explaining a phenomenon to be studied. In qualitative research there is also more explaining, describing and more analysis using an inductive approach. The data collection techniques used by researchers are techniques from relevant sources. In this case, the focus of various in-depth reference sources is the presence of key informants who have previously been given access to provide in-depth questions related to the problem topic being researched. Infrastructure has an important role as one of the driving wheels of economic growth and the development of physical facilities and infrastructure or often referred to as infrastructure is a very important part of the public service system. Development of rural transportation infrastructure to support increased accessibility for rural communities.

Correlation of Reaction Times and Body Mass Index among Female University Athletes, Accounting for Urban and Rural Environments

Body mass index (BMI) is a significant human health fitness gauge. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between BMI and reaction time of female university athletes, considering urban and rural community influences. Asample of 60 players (mean age = 20.45 ± 2.29 years) was selected fromthree leading women's universities in Lahore, Pakistan. reaction time was assessed through a ruler drop test. Data normality was examined using the Kolmogorov and Shapiro-Wilk tests. Pearson's correlation coefficients, trend lines, and independent samples t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results indicated mean reaction times were 0.164 ± 0.031 and 0.158 ± 0.026 seconds for urban and rural community athletes respectively. The average BMIs were 21.03 ± 1.77 and 19.64 ± 2.84 for urban and rural community athletes respectively. Rural players exhibited healthier BMIs, and overweight players displayed superior reaction time. There was a non-significant correlation between reaction time and BMI, explaining 3.9%of reaction time variability. Locality had a significant effect on BMI but not on reaction time. There was no significant association between reaction time and BMI was observed. However, locality significantly influenced BMI. Maintaining healthy BMIs and incorporating agility drills are recommended for optimal performance.

Foresight of the development of rural tourism in Ukraine in the post-war period

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to develop alternative scenarios for the development of rural tourism through the foresight methodology. Methodology / approach. Theoretical interpretations were formed by general scientific methods and approaches. To assess the prospects for the development of revitalisation of rural tourism, the method of scanning the horizon was used, which demonstrated the main tendencies and trends of the market and consumer tourism needs. Empirical methods made it possible to work out the stressors of systemic national crises, the global COVID pandemic, a full-scale war, which threaten the subjects of rural tourism with extraordinary losses and critical destruction of the material and technical base, losses of tourist interest – that is, questioning the existence of business as a whole. Therefore, an important task today is to draw up foresight scenarios and tactics that will create modules of investment attractiveness and mechanisms for the rapid accumulation of financial, architectural and construction, infrastructural and social potentials for the recovery of the economy of territorial units and the country as a whole. Results. Since forecasting is based on three “whales” (actual state, business experience and prospects), the foresight methodology is represented by tools with appropriate characteristics and management competencies. Therefore, in order to avoid complications and contradictions in the foresight of rural tourism, it is suggested to think over and install profiles of investment proposals, foresight scenarios for realising the possibilities of its restoration. Reasoned positions reflect the relevance of foresight research for assessing future prospects and opportunities for the restoration of rural tourism in Ukraine. The results of the study shed light on opportunities for rural development and suggest interventions to create a fully sustainable ecosystem. The study provides actionable information for rural tourism actors, stakeholders and potential investors who can benefit from forecasting the prospects and expectations emerging in rural tourism in the post-war period. Originality / scientific novelty. The scientific value of the research lies in the evaluation of the prospects for the development of rural tourism as a direction of diversification of the agricultural economy of Ukraine in 2019–2023 and the post-war period. A model for forming the investment profile of a rural tourism subject is proposed for implementation. Practical value / implications. The practical value of the research lies in the fact that it can be used as a tool for building effective cooperation in the development of plans and programs aimed at partnership relations with rural communities of Ukraine, tourism subjects, estate owners, etc. The value of this study lies in the foresight of rural tourism development prospects, which determine the competitive advantage of rural areas, with an emphasis on a relatively new and controversial topic after the war in Ukraine, namely its positioning in the structure of the restorative mechanism of regional development and tourism.