MOUNTAIN REGIONS OF RUSSIA: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT. THE KEY ROLE OF THE UNESCO MAB-6 MOUNTAIN PROJECT

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
YU.P. BADENKOV ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Global Changes ◽  
Agenda 21 ◽  
Mountain Regions ◽  
Mountain Areas ◽  
Mountain Environment ◽  
Model Law ◽  
Global Agenda ◽  
Mountain Development ◽  
The Impact

Project No. 6 "Human Impact on Mountain Ecosystems" of the UNESCO "Man and the Biosphere" Program had its own peculiarities of implementation, both in the international and in the Russian context. It went far beyond environmental problems and was initially focused on the sustainable mountain development issues, assessing the impact of global changes on the mountain environment, economy, and population. Fragile mountain areas occupy a special position in the global Agenda 21 and national strategies for regional development. The specificity of the Soviet and Russian experience in the development and evolution of the MAB-6 project and the role of mountain biosphere reserves in Russia in the preservation of biological and cultural heritage are considered. The adoption in 2020 by the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly of the Model Law "On the Development and Protection of Mountainous Territories of the CIS" opens up new prospects for the development of mountain regions and testifies to the relevance of scientific approaches laid in the foundation of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program and the MAB-6 mountain project, in particular.

scholarly journals The Role of Histone Acetylation and the Microbiome in Phytochemical Efficacy for Cardiovascular Diseases

2020 ◽  
Vol 21 (11) ◽  
pp. 4006
Author(s):  
Levi W. Evans ◽  
Maheshi Athukorala ◽  
Kristina Martinez-Guryn ◽  
Bradley S. Ferguson
Keyword(s):  
Cardiovascular Diseases ◽  
Histone Acetylation ◽  
Fruits And Vegetables ◽  
Financial Burden ◽  
Epigallocatechin Gallate ◽  
Mechanisms Of Action ◽  
Global Changes ◽  
Treatment And Prevention ◽  
The Impact

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of death worldwide and create a substantial financial burden. Emerging studies have begun to focus on epigenetic targets and re-establishing healthy gut microbes as therapeutic options for the treatment and prevention of CVD. Phytochemicals, commonly found in fruits and vegetables, have been shown to exert a protective effect against CVD, though their mechanisms of action remain incompletely understood. Of interest, phytochemicals such as curcumin, resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) have been shown to regulate both histone acetylation and microbiome re-composition. The purpose of this review is to highlight the microbiome–epigenome axis as a therapeutic target for food bioactives in the prevention and/or treatment of CVD. Specifically, we will discuss studies that highlight how the three phytochemicals above alter histone acetylation leading to global changes in gene expression and CVD protection. Then, we will expand upon these phytochemicals to discuss the impact of phytochemical–microbiome–histone acetylation interaction in CVD.

Modeling of the impact of rigid ellipsoidal blocks by means of an elastic-visco-plastic constitutive model 

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Giuseppe Dattola ◽  
Giovanni Battista Crosta ◽  
Claudio Giulio di Prisco
Keyword(s):  
Constitutive Model ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Impact Angle ◽  
Material Point ◽  
Lumped Mass ◽  
Mountain Areas ◽  
Block Motion ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Constitutive Parameters

<p>Rockfall is one of the most common hazards in mountain areas causing severe damages to structures/infrastructures and, human lives. For this reason, numerous are the papers published in the last decades on this subject, both introducing reliable approaches to simulate the boulder trajectory and defining design methods for sheltering structures. As is well known, the most popular strategy to simulate the block trajectory and velocity is based on the lumped mass material point approach. This is capable of describing the block trajectory, before either its natural arrest or impact against an artificial/natural obstacle, by suitably considering its interaction with soil/rock materials, interaction always dynamic, very often highly dissipative and defined, according to its nature, as sliding, rolling or impact.</p><p>In this framework, this study focusses on impacts and, in particular, on the role of block geometry in affecting the block kinematic response. The problem is approached numerically; by modifying a previously conceived elastic-viscoplastic constitutive model, based on the macro-element concept. and capable of satisfactorily simulating impacts of spherical blocks.</p><p>The modified constitutive model relaxes the assumption of spherical block by assuming an ellipsoidal shape and by allowing for the boulder rotation. These two changes make the problem more complex but allow to model more realistically the impact. For the sake of simplicity, the results shown in this work consider the block motion to be planar, but the model already allows to include general three dimensional conditions.</p><p>In this work, the model is briefly outlined and the procedure for calibrating the model constitutive parameters described. Then, the results of an extensive parametric analysis, employing constitutive parameters calibrated on experimental data taken from the literature, are discussed. In particular, the role of (i) the inner block orientation, and (ii) the inner impact angle is considered in terms of both kinematic variables and restitution coefficients. Finally, interpolation functions to compute restitution coefficients, once both block shape and inner impact block orientation are known, are provided.</p>

THE NEGATIVE IMPACT OF HIKING ON THE MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT – THE POSITION OF POLISH SCIENTISTS IN COMPARISON TO GLOBAL LITERATURE

2020 ◽  
Vol 55 ◽  
pp. 85-115
Author(s):  
Krzysztof Kołodziejczyk
Keyword(s):  
Plant Biomass ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Subject Area ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Mountain Areas ◽  
Global Literature ◽  
Mountain Environment ◽  
Tourist Infrastructure ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Impaired Water

Purpose. In this article, the position of Polish scientists is presented with regard to the impact of hiking on the environment, particularly mountain areas, by reference to the broader context of selected works of global literature. Method. The paper is mainly in the form of a review of literature connected with Earth sciences, chiefly geomorphology. Particular emphasis is placed on the effects of hiking, which have been divided by impact type (e.g. compaction and soil erosion, initiation of morphogenetic processes, impaired water circulation, destruction of plant biomass and changes in the plant and animal world). Findings. The Polish scientific contribution to the subject area presented should be considered significant, however, it does differ in certain characteristics from the achievements of the wider world. Considerable attention has been devoted to means of counteracting particular negative effects of tourism, both the technical (remodelling of trails and their surroundings) and organisational aspects (management of tourist traffic). Research and conclusions limitations. The position of Polish science is mostly presented, however, this is done in comparison to the broader global literature on the topic. Practical implications. The suggested means of counteracting the negative effects of hiking may be useful while planning tourist infrastructure, especially in protected areas. Originality. In the paper, a complex review is presented regarding the opinions of Polish scientists, not only on the topic of the negative impact of hiking, but also methods of its prevention. Type of paper. Literature review.

scholarly journals Breads formulated with evolutionary populations of wheat heritage varieties on postprandial glycaemic and insulin responses in healthy subjects

2020 ◽  
Vol 79 (OCE2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Margherita Dall'Asta ◽  
Rossella Dodi ◽  
Giuseppe Di Pede ◽  
Mia Marchini ◽  
Silvia Folloni ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Mountain Areas ◽  
Modern Variety ◽  
Rural Development Programme ◽  
Emilia Romagna Region ◽  
High Level ◽  
Insulin Responses ◽  
The Impact

AbstractTriticum heritage varieties and ancient species are gaining interest of consumers due to the perception of a healthier nutrition profile than other modern wheat. Although still limited, several findings highlighted the real potential beneficial role of ancient wheat-based products consumption on several cardiometabolic factors(1). However, a lack of information is still present, especially for their effect on postprandial glycaemia. Evolutionary populations (EPs) are plants within the same species in one field characterized by a high level of genetic diversity(2). EPs are evolving as a function of several environmental variables and in turn characterized by a high level of adaptability and biodiversity. EPs can drive agronomic advantages, especially under organic and low-input agricultural conditions, or in less favourable growing conditions(3). The aim of the present study, which is a part of a more comprehensive project called “BIO2”(4), was to evaluate the impact of breads made with EPs of heritage varieties and a modern variety, all produced under organic farming in mountain areas of Emilia Romagna Region (Italy), on postprandial glycaemic and insulin responses. The study is a randomized controlled trial in which 13 healthy subjects were enrolled for consuming 8 non-commercial breads made either with EPs (EPs named “BIO2” and “GROSSI” – of local heritage varieties, and EP “Solibam”) or with a modern variety (Bologna) produced with a standard recipe, but 2 different leavening techniques (S. Cerevisiae and sourdough). Subjects consumed breads in a portion containing 50 g of available carbohydrates and blood was collected for quantifying glycaemia and insulin during 2 hours. Incremental area under curves (IAUCs) and maximum peaks were compared among treatments. No differences were found in IAUCs and peaks for both the markers, showing that none of the tested EPs was effective in lowering glycaemic and insulin responses compared to the modern variety. Moreover, sourdough did not determine a lower blood glucose and insulin within the same type of flour, which is in contrast with previous studies describing the role of sourdough in lowering glycaemic response. Future studies will better elucidate the possible implication of consuming ancient wheat-based products on the modulation of post-prandial glucose metabolism.This study has been funded by Measure 16.1.01 of the Rural Development Programme 2014–2020 of the Emilia-Romagna Region (Italy).

scholarly journals THE INFLUENCE OF MORPHOMETRIC INDICATORS OF THE RELIEF ON THE FORMATION OF LANDSCAPES OF THE SOUTHEASTERN SLOPE OF THE GREATER CAUCASUS

2021 ◽  
pp. 53-59
Author(s):  
A. Ismailova ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Close Correlation ◽  
Environmental Safety ◽  
High Energy ◽  
Mountain Areas ◽  
Greater Caucasus ◽  
Mountain Landscape ◽  
Landscape Unit ◽  
Steep Slopes ◽  
The Impact

Purpose: To reveal the role of high energy of slope relief in the formation and differentiation of modern mountain geosystems of the Southeastern slope of the Greater Caucasus by assessing the degree of horizontal dissection, slopes of slopes and landscape-morphometric tension of territories with various landscape complexes with subsequent mapping of the ecogeographic situation in order to ensure rational land use and environmental safety. Methodology and Approach: On the basis of field and office studies, data on the state of the soil and vegetation cover, the author analyzed the impact of morphometric indicators on the exodynamic conditions of landscape belts, identified individual landscape-morphological blocks according to the degree of morphometric tension, schematic maps reflecting the impact of horizontal dissection and slopes of slopes on the natural complexes of the territory. Results: The author, through a comparative analysis of quantitative morphometric indicators from different ranks of landscape complexes, showed that there is a close correlation between them, i.e. differentiation, fragmentation and small contour of mountain landscape geosystems, and each landscape unit is distinguished by its own morphometric indicators, which also determine their exogeodynamic stability. It was revealed that the highest intensity of 5 points is characteristic of the territory covering steep slopes within the heights, which are characterized by the development of subnival, alpine meadow and subalpine complexes. The results of field and office studies were reflected in the compiled cartographic materials, which made it possible to carry out a spatial analysis of the development of the exodynamic situation on the territory of the southeastern slope of the Greater Caucasus. Theoretical and Practical implications: Based on the generalization of the results of the research carried out, the territories most exposed to exogenous relief-forming processes can be identified, a more detailed study is carried out and the exodynamic situation is more objectively assessed. The results of the study will make it possible to carry out effective economic planning, to identify priority areas for the implementation of anti-erosion and phyto-reclamation measures in mountain areas.

scholarly journals Humboldt’s enigma: What causes global patterns of mountain biodiversity?

Science ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 365 (6458) ◽  
pp. 1108-1113 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carsten Rahbek ◽  
Michael K. Borregaard ◽  
Robert K. Colwell ◽  
Bo Dalsgaard ◽  
Ben G. Holt ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Land Use ◽  
Global Changes ◽  
Mountain Regions ◽  
Land Area ◽  
Tropical Mountains ◽  
Global Patterns ◽  
Terrestrial Biodiversity ◽  
The Tropics ◽  
Climatic Characteristics

Mountains contribute disproportionately to the terrestrial biodiversity of Earth, especially in the tropics, where they host hotspots of extraordinary and puzzling richness. With about 25% of all land area, mountain regions are home to more than 85% of the world’s species of amphibians, birds, and mammals, many entirely restricted to mountains. Biodiversity varies markedly among these regions. Together with the extreme species richness of some tropical mountains, this variation has proven challenging to explain under traditional climatic hypotheses. However, the complex climatic characteristics of rugged mountain regions differ fundamentally from those of lowland regions, likely playing a key role in generating and maintaining diversity. With ongoing global changes in climate and land use, the role of mountains as refugia for biodiversity may well come under threat.

scholarly journals The Convention to Combat Desertification and the Role of Innovative Policy-Making Discourses: The Case of Burkina Faso

2004 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. 107-127 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hans Bruyninckx
Keyword(s):  
Policy Implementation ◽  
Burkina Faso ◽  
Local Knowledge ◽  
Policy Process ◽  
Policy Making ◽  
Local Level ◽  
National Level ◽  
Agenda 21 ◽  
The Impact

The UN Convention to Combat Desertification is a mix of traditional regime elements with a set of innovations. These innovative elements can be interpreted as emanations of policy discourses that have been gaining in importance since the introduction and the fairly broad acceptance of sustainable development and Agenda 21 as guiding conceptual frameworks. In this article I first elaborate on three of those discourses: the participatory, the decentralization and the local knowledge discourses. In a second part, I will look at Burkina Faso as an example of UNCCD policy implementation at the national and the local level (Yatenga region). It will become clear that although changes are visible in policy-making dynamics, major difficulties and obstacles remain. The CCD undeniably has an impact at the national level of policy-making. It has provided support for decentralization, for more participatory processes of policy-making and for the inclusion of local knowledge in the policy process. At the more decentralized level the impact is less clear and more difficult to distinguish.

HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF THE UNESCO MAB-6 MOUNTAIN PROJECT “HUMAN IMPACT ON MOUNTAIN ECOSYSTEMS”. FROM ECOLOGY TO MONTOLOGY

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
JACK D. IVES ◽  
Keyword(s):  
World Wide ◽  
Environmental Concern ◽  
Agenda 21 ◽  
Mountain Ecosystems ◽  
Long Period ◽  
International Linkages ◽  
Research Initiatives ◽  
Mountain Development ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Important Stimulus

Through much of the twentieth century there was little concern over the need for sustainable mountain development. Nevertheless, the 1972 International Conference on the Environment (Stockholm) was an important beginning. The extensive publication that followed emphasized the need for environmental concern and action world-wide, although there was no mention of “mountains” per se. Nevertheless, several research initiatives received important stimulus, including UNESCO’s programme for “Man and the Biosphere”, especially MAB-6: The Impact of Human Activities on Mountain Ecosystems. This led to association with the International Geographical Union’s Commission of High Altitude Geoecology, and later (1977) the United Nations University’s project. These developments encouraged a number of mountain scholars world-wide to establish close personal relationships that had a decisive impact on the inclusion of Chapter 13 (Mountains) in AGENDA 21 (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), critical for the UN declaration of 2002 as The International Year of Mountains and December 11th as International Mountain Day. The following account explains how all these developments produced vital international linkages so that we can recognize, fifty years later how much has been achieved. The following account draws attention to many of the major achievements and the importance of goodwill and international collaboration. Throughout this long period of mountain activity there has been a persistent effort to promote the term “Montology”. This is to emphasize the need for a wide approach to transdisciplinary mountain research.

scholarly journals The impact of technological development in achieving entrepreneurship and excellence for modern businesses: The case of Algerian Small and Medium Enterprises

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
حسين مدور ◽  
حبيبـة عامر
Keyword(s):  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Technological Development ◽  
Global Changes ◽  
Business Organizations ◽  
Essential Characteristic ◽  
Innovative Methods ◽  
Modern Business ◽  
Medium Enterprises ◽  
The Impact

In light of the new global changes, which have been generated by economic fluctuations and the technological revolution, entrepreneurship and diversity have become an essential characteristic of contemporary economy and technological development, and advances in communication, which may have increased the role of innovative and pioneering ideas. Modern business organizations have benefited greatly from information technology and mechanisms to improve their performance and productivity. This has led them to adopt a number of innovative methods and strategies, as well as their great role in managing this process.

A study of the impact of citizenship education in Morocco

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 357-370 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bouchaib Benzehaf
Keyword(s):  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Citizenship Education ◽  
Educational Reforms ◽  
Weak Links ◽  
Global Changes ◽  
Global Citizens ◽  
Good Citizen ◽  
Agents Of Change ◽  
The Impact

Global changes taking place in today’s world have brought about an unprecedented crisis in citizenship values. For instance, violence, conflict and radicalization have become rampant in our society. Such crisis has brought to the limelight the role of education in sensitizing students about their rights and duties in order to promote peace, tolerance and mutual respect. In Morocco, educational reforms have given much importance to citizenship education in the belief that it can help raise students’ awareness about their rights and duties, anchor them to their communities, and provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary for active participation in society. The National Charter for Education and Training and the Higher Council for Education, Training and Scientific Research have created a roadmap for citizenship education. This study aims to investigate the impact of such attempts to train good citizens. The participants are 73 semester-two students of the department of English from the faculty of humanities, Chouaib Doukkali University. The main data collection tool is questionnaires. The data obtained are fed into SPSS to generate frequencies besides identifying main themes obtained from answers to open-ended questions. Findings show that the impact of such educational reforms is rather limited. While the majority of students expressed their feeling of belonging to their community as well as an accepted level of awareness of their rights and duties, they failed to act on the self-reported qualities of a good citizen. Such low level of engagement in their community affairs betrays weak links between students and their communities. In light of these findings, several recommendations are made to improve citizenship education and reduce the gap between the goals of national educational reforms and their actual implementation in schools. One such recommendation is that textbooks need to emphasize critical thinking and analysis so that students are empowered to become critical thinking global citizens and agents of change.

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