50716 research outputs found
Sort by
An ecosystem-based adaptation and adaptive governance framework for addressing governance challenges in tropical peatland restoration
No full textPeatland restoration is considered one of the most cost-effective ecosystem-based interventions for climate mitigation and adaptation, but also for sustaining local welfare and livelihoods as well. However, despite its promise, the governance of tropical peatland restoration as an ecosystem-based adaptation strategy poses significant challenges for local actors. This paper presents an analytical framework illustrating how ecosystem-based adaptation, through adaptive governance strategies, can transcend these inherent problems like funding constraints and cross-sectoral governance complexities. Located in Leyte Sab-a Basin Peatland, Philippines, this study highlights that tropical peatland restoration challenges often stem from rigid and inflexible systems, mismatch between funding and ecological priorities, and insufficient understanding of the interconnected social-ecological system. Results demonstrate actionable solutions, such as combining peatland restoration with livelihood initiatives, promoting polycentricity to enhance local ownership, and utilizing both scientific and local ecological knowledge to guide decision-making.
Influence of Exercise Heat Acclimation Protocol Characteristics on Adaptation Kinetics:A Quantitative Review With Bayesian Meta-Regressions
No full textThe integrative influence of heat acclimation (HA) protocol characteristics and approach on adaptation kinetics and exercise capacity/performance in the heat remains unclear. Bayesian multilevel regression models were used to estimate adaptations with the number of exposures, exposure duration, ambient temperature, water vapor pressure, and HA approach (e.g., constant workrate) as predictors. Data from 211 papers were included in meta-analyses with results presented as posterior means and 90% credible intervals. Mean protocol characteristics were as follows: 8 ± 4 exposures, 90 ± 36 min/exposure, 39.1°C ± 4.8°C, and 2.78 ± 0.83 kPa. HA decreased resting (-5 beats·min -1 [-7, -3]) and end-exercise heart rate (-17 beats·min -1 [-19, -14]), resting (-0.19°C [-0.23, -0.14]) and end-exercise core temperature (-0.43°C [-0.48, -0.36]), and expanded plasma volume (5.6% [3.8, 7.0]). HA also lowered exercise metabolic rate (-87 mL·min -1 [-126, -49]), increased whole-body sweat rate (WBSR) (163 mL·h -1 [94, 226]), time to exhaustion (49% [35, 61]) and incremental exercise time (14% [7, 24]), and improved time trial performance (3.1% [1.8, 4.5]). An additional HA exposure increased hemoglobin mass (1.9 g [0.6, 3.2]) and WBSR (9 mL·h -1 [1, 17]), and an additional 15 min/exposure further lowered end-exercise core temperature (-0.04°C [-0.05, -0.03]) and expanded plasma volume (0.4% [0.1, 0.7]). A 5°C increase in ambient temperature further lowered end-exercise HR (-2 beats·min -1 [-3, -1]) and a 1 kPa increase enhanced WBSR (37 mL·h -1 [4, 72]). End-exercise heart rate and core temperature decreased similarly following controlled hyperthermia (-16 beats·min -1 [-18, -14]; -0.43°C [-0.48, -0.36]) and constant workrate HA (-17 beats·min -1 [-18, -16]; -0.45°C [-0.49, -0.42]). HA protocol characteristics influence the adaptive response and may be manipulated to optimize adaptations. A predictor for estimating HA adaptations based on protocol characteristics is available at: https://www.canberra.edu.au/research/centres/uc-rise/research/environmental-physiology/exercise-heat-acclimation-predictor. </p
Accessibility in Sport Management:International Venue Perspectives
No full textThis book introduces the fundamental principles of accessible and inclusive sport venue management, with a focus on people with disability. It offers a social-ecological analysis of how governments, businesses, the disability social movement, sports organisations, and their stakeholders can, and should, make sport more accessible and inclusive. Using a critical disability studies perspective, this book highlights recent global human rights initiatives, challenges, and ongoing resistance to the drive for accessibility in sport venue management. Drawing on the latest research, it takes a step-by-step look at the sporting experience - including pre-experience planning, travel to and from an event, the built environment, the experience itself, and online participation - and considers how each phase might be made more accessible and inclusive, and how commercial and social justice considerations intersect. Addressing the needs of participants, consumers, employees, volunteers, and organisations, this book is essential reading for any student, researcher, practitioner, or policymaker with an interest in sport management, disability sport, event management, corporate social responsibility, disability studies, or human rights.</p
Regional conservation genomics:insights and opportunities from northern Australia
Get PDFBiodiversity conservation in northern Australia is characterised by high endemism, data deficiency, and high Indigenous land tenure and population. The Northern Australia Conservation Genomics Forum brought together experts to explore current genetic research with particular emphasis on integration of genomics within conservation practices. We discuss the regional biodiversity of northern Australia, highlighting the unique biogeographic patterns, known and unknown species diversity, and ongoing threats such as habitat degradation, altered fire regimes, invasive species, and climate change. This article synthesises key themes from the forum, including the current application of genomics in conservation, gaps and areas of need and opportunity to advance species conservation in this sparsely populated, yet iconic region of Australia. We highlight the need to expand collaborative research partnerships across land tenures with Indigenous organisations, pastoralists, government and non-government organisations, which is crucial for the effective study and conservation of the region’s biodiversity. The paper identifies the challenges and opportunities in applying genomic data to conservation strategies and applied management, including species translocations and habitat management, while acknowledging the limitations and gaps in current research and collections. The insights from this forum emphasise the advantages in using genomics to inform conservation decisions, and the need for continued research and collaboration to protect northern Australia’s unique biodiversity.</p
Development of a Smartphone App for Women Living With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus:Qualitative Study
No full textBACKGROUND: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a type of blood glucose intolerance or hyperglycemia that occurs during pregnancy, is a common condition increasing in prevalence both globally and in Australia. Mobile health apps have been shown to be a useful resource for women with type 1 diabetes and could successfully contribute to GDM management by facilitating healthy behaviors.OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to seek the perspectives of health care consumers (HCCs) and health professionals (HPs) regarding the development of a smartphone app for women living with GDM.METHODS: A co-design process with 4 distinct phases underpinned the development of SugarMumma. Phase 1 involved a nonsystematic literature search followed by the creation of an app functions wish list. In phase 2, semistructured interviews with HCCs and HPs were undertaken and then thematically analyzed. In phase 3, a prototype was designed based on social cognitive theory and stakeholder recommendations. Agile project management methodology was used, followed by "user acceptance testing." During phase 4, a second round of individual interviews was undertaken with HCCs and HPs. The same qualitative methods outlined in phase 2 were used.RESULTS: In phase 2, individual and didactic interviews were undertaken with HCCs (n=2) and HPs (n=6). Two overarching themes encompassing recommendations for app development emerged: (1) functionality and (2) individualized care. SugarMumma was created in phase 3. Phase 4 involved a second round of individual interviews with HCCs (n=1) and HPs (n=5), resulting in the final theme (3) future directions.CONCLUSIONS: With increasing numbers of people using smartphones, mobile health apps can help manage chronic conditions such as GDM. SugarMumma was designed following extensive stakeholder input. Good functionality, regular notifications, appealing visual aids, positive feedback, relevant dietary advice, and exporting information to HPs are important features to include.</p