Adaptive Management Research Articles

Analysis of the watershed social-ecological system trajectory in Copalita-Huatulco, Mexico: The impact of drivers on hydrological ecosystem services.

In watersheds, which function as social-ecological systems (SESs), hydrological ecosystem services (HESs) are crucial flows connecting natural and social components. The internal and external drivers that shape HESs and watershed SES trajectories create complexities in watershed management. In this study, the adaptive cycle framework was adopted, and a qualitative method is proposed to analyze the impacts of drivers on the HES and the watershed SES trajectory. Empirical evidence from the Copalita-Huatulco watershed in Mexico was used to study the relationships between drivers and HESs. The results reveal changes in regional hydrodynamics due to natural shocks, cumulative social stressors, and SES-related human trajectories. The SES trajectory was in a growth phase when stressors dominated, a collapse when shocks occurred, and a conservation phase when human agency was strong. Understanding the impact of drivers on HESs and their integration into SES trajectories is a key element of HES resilience.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Construction Professionals’ Skills: A Case Study of Chile

The construction industry faced several challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting different aspects of construction projects, such as the financial stability of companies and the mental well-being of professionals. However, there is limited knowledge about how these challenges impacted the skills required by professionals in construction. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze changes in skills required by construction professionals in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. To do so, we qualitatively analyzed interviews obtained from construction professionals in Chile who worked through the pandemic to study how skills required by construction professionals before the pandemic were impacted during, and after the pandemic. The results indicate that before the pandemic, the most valued skills were related to teamwork, decision-making, planning, and leadership. During the development of the COVID-19 pandemic, skills such as effective communication, computer skills, planning, and stress management were prominent. Regarding the post-pandemic period, interviewees emphasized that construction professionals required mainly adaptability to change, stress management, and planning skills. Our study contributes by identifying changes in the skills required by construction professionals, emphasizing a shift towards skills like digital communication, adaptability, and stress management. Additionally, our study emphasizes planning as the most relevant skill for construction professionals to deal with a highly disruptive event such as the pandemic in construction projects. The study contributed to theorizing the consequences of the pandemic faced by the construction sector in the context of skills required by construction professionals. In practicality, construction managers may use our results to develop strategies to adapt to the post-pandemic context and be prepared for future disruptive events. Ultimately, this will help make the construction industry a more resilient sector.

Characterizing annual leaf area index changes and volume growth using ALS and satellite data in forest plantations

While Leaf Area Index (LAI) is critical for understanding forest canopy, photosynthesis and forest growth, traditional field-based LAI measurements are laborious and costly. Remote sensing offers a practical alternative for extensive assessments. Satellite imagery provides broad-scale, long-term monitoring; however, may lack detail needed to guide specific forest management actions. Conversely, Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) provides accurate LAI estimates at fine spatial detail but is limited by cost and temporal monitoring constraints. Combining ALS data with satellite observations could enhance plantation management decisions by balancing extensive coverage with detailed observations. This study explores the integration of ALS and satellite remote sensing as a comprehensive alternative for assessing LAI and stand volume growth rate (m3/ha/year) in operational Pinus radiata plantations in central-south Chile. Our approach comprised four major steps. First, we applied the Beer-Lambert law using ALS vertical profiles to estimate LAI across a forest plantation (LAIALS). We found that ALS accurately estimated LAI across 121 plots (R2 = 0.82 and RMSE = 0.51). Second, we built a simple linear regression to link LAIALS with the Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI) derived from surface reflectance information from the Landsat/Sentinel-2 satellites, resulting in an R2 of 0.53 and an RMSE of 1.17. This step showed a higher correlation with satellite data compared to using only ground-based LAI estimates (R2 = 0.38; RMSE = 1.18). Third, we transformed biweekly NDMI time series to LAI, then derived peak annual LAI as an indicator of mean annual increment (MAI) (R2 = 0.51; RMSE = 5.27 m³/ha/year). This allowed us to characterize stand growth and LAI on a yearly wall-to-wall basis. Throughout the modelling steps, we incorporated error propagation, allowing final estimates to be error bounded. This integrated approach serves as a tool for identifying and visualizing growth irregularities, guiding adaptive management strategies to maintain or enhance stand productivity over time.

Species-specific evolution of lepidopteran TspC5 tetraspanins associated with dominant resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis toxin Cry1Ac

Transgenic crops producing insecticidal proteins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have proven to be highly effective in managing some key pests. However, the evolution of resistance by the target pests threatens the sustainability of Bt crops. The L31S mutation in a tetraspanin encoded by HarmTspC5 (previously known as HaTSPAN1) has been shown to confer dominant resistance to the Bt protein Cry1Ac in Helicoverpa armigera, a globally damaging lepidopteran pest. However, the broader implications of the L31S mutation in the tetraspanins of other lepidopteran species remain unclear. The evolutionary analyses in this study indicate that TspC5s have evolved in a species-specific manner among the lepidopteran insects. To investigate the role of TspC5s in conferring dominant resistance to Cry1Ac, we used the piggyBac-based transformation system to generate four transgenic H. armigera strains that express exogenous TspC5 variants from three phylogenetically close species (Helicoverpa zea, Helicoverpa assulta and Heliothis virescens) and one phylogenetically distant species (Plutella xylostella). In comparison with the background SCD strain of H. armigera, the transgenic strains expressing HzeaTspC5-L31S, HassTspC5-L31S, or HvirTspC5-L31S exhibited significant resistance to Cry1Ac (10.0-, 21.4-, and 81.1-fold, respectively), whereas the strain expressing PxylTspC5-L27S remained susceptible. Furthermore, the Cry1Ac resistant phenotypes followed an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern and were closely linked to the introduced mutant TspC5s. These findings reveal the conserved role of TspC5s from Helicoverpa and Heliothis species in mediating the dominant resistance to Cry1Ac, and they provide crucial insights for assessing resistance risks related to mutant tetraspanins and devising adaptive resistance management strategies for these major lepidopteran pests.

Modelled Vegetation Structure and Abundance Confirms African Savannah Elephant‐Induced Damage Across Space in a Dry Protected Area With Diverse Vegetation

ABSTRACTThe African savannah elephant (Loxodonta africana) is an ecosystem engineer essential in determining the structure and vegetation abundance in mesic dry protected areas such as the Mana Pools National Park (MNP) in Zimbabwe. Understanding the interactions between elephants and vegetation structure is essential for effective conservation and management of savannah ecosystems. Conservation efforts often aim to balance elephant populations with the carrying capacity of their habitats to ensure the sustainability of both flora and fauna within protected areas. Therefore understanding how African savannah elephants influence vegetation structure, abundance and damage is critical for adaptive ecosystem management and wildlife conservation in mesic savannah ecosystems. This study assessed: (i) vegetation structure, (ii) abundance and (iii) evidence of elephant‐induced vegetation damage near a distance gradient to water points in MNP. A generalised linear model (GLM) was used to investigate the relationship between vegetation aspects that is structure, abundance and evidence of damage with distance from water sources. In the mesic protected MNP where African savannah elephants predominate, the modelled vegetation shape, abundance and damage exhibit spatial differences on a distant gradient towards water sources (χ2, p < 0.05). There is need for implementation of comparably, less costly, homogenous conservation measures for African savannah elephants across the artificial water pans in the MNP.

A Novel Hybrid Energy Storage System With an Adaptive Digital Filter-Based Energy Management Strategy for Electric Vehicles

A Novel Hybrid Energy Storage System With an Adaptive Digital Filter-Based Energy Management Strategy for Electric Vehicles

Building a Leader Framework for Post-Pandemic Response Expertise for Higher Education Future Reality

A successful future for higher education is dependent on the level of preparedness to manage future crises that are no longer linear processes in the best way possible. The severe disruption of academic progress post-COVID-19 across the globe brought a growing sense of chaos in the education system. This forced education institutions to adopt a rapid re-design of institutional strategic systems that called for different kinds of responses in different contexts because previous successful leadership approaches often fail in crisis situations. However, the challenges brought about by the chaos have positively presented humanity with many opportunities to re-think and re-engineer a new way of doing business. Therefore, this paper designs and develops a post-pandemic conceptual model that is an approach to crisis management, quick decision-making, and quick problem-solving to enable general adaptation to future pandemics. Through a developmental research design and a comprehensive literature review, an adaptive emergence response cycle (AERC) was developed and built around the theory of chaos, the reflective practitioner theory, using the adaptive approach. One potential benefit of the post-pandemic response model was the creation of an emergency response equation that was best suited for the post-pandemic crises. This model allows higher education management to be protected by planning generalizable futuristic crisis models.

Impact of climatic factors on water quality parameters in tilapia broodfish ponds and predictive modeling of pond water temperature with ARIMAX

Climate change represents a considerable threat to aquatic ecosystems, potentially affecting various water quality parameters.The study aims to assess the impacts climatic factors on the water quality parameters in tilapia broodfish pond and forecasting of water temperature in a tilapia broodfish pond using the ARIMAX model. Daily longitudinal time series data on water quality parameters were collected from the pond, while monthly climatic data were obtained from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department. Water temperature exhibited seasonal variation, peaking at 31.23 °C in October and dropping to 20.8 °C in December. pH levels ranged from 7.36 to 10.32, with the lowest recorded in December and the highest in August. Dissolved oxygen levels varied from 7.09 mg/L to 10.65 mg/L, with the lowest in September and the highest in January. Ammonia levels were highest in February at 0.33 mg/L. Water transparency ranged from 15.37 to 28 inches, with the highest in January and the lowest in June. Climatic factors significantly influenced these variations, as specified by Canonical correlation analysis (CCA). The best-fitting model, ARIMAX (1, 0, 1), indicated a fluctuating trend influenced by important exogenous factors like air temperature and solar intensity. By the end January 2025, the water temperature is expected to rise to 27.93 °C. This is a noticeable increase started from November to January. These higher temperatures may improve tilapia broodfish growth and development earlier. But the temperatures are predicted to drop started from February to March, which could negatively affect tilapia growth and development. A clear seasonal fluctuating pattern is exhibited in the future. These findings provide important insights for researchers, policymakers, academics, and those involved in tilapia farming. By considering air temperature and solar intensity in planning, stakeholders can better anticipate future pond conditions. Developing adaptive management strategies to reduce negative impacts and make the most of favorable conditions will be essential for sustainable tilapia production in the context of climate change.

Advancing multiple ecosystem service assessment in the tropics: Evidence from Barekese and Owabi watersheds in Ghana

Watershed ecosystems are important for the provision of multiple ecosystem services (ES) that are critical to human welfare. Few studies particularly in the tropics assess the multiple ecosystem services, economic value, and effect of land use change on economic value. This paper provides evidence of the quantitative. economic value and effect of land use change on the economic value of watershed ESs from Barekese and Owabi in Ghana. Geospatial analysis and the stated preference method were used for the study. Primary and secondary data were collected from households, institutions, and other sources to quantify and estimate ecosystem services. The geospatial analysis showed that forest degradation and deforestation have increased over the last three decades in the watershed with settlements and cropland being the major land use changes. The two watersheds provide many ecosystem services, including provisioning services (water, fuelwood, bushmeat, fish), regulating services (carbon sequestration, water supply, water purification, soil fertility), and cultural services (ecotourism). An aggregated economic value for the ESs of GH₵ 707.701 x 106 ($144.428 x 106) was estimated for the two watersheds. For the different sites, the economic value for the Barekese and Owabi watersheds were $110.645 x 106 ($6609.06/ha/yr) and $33.783 x 106 ($5857.76/ha/yr) respectively. Our analysis showed that conversion of forest to other land uses resulted in a significant reduction in the value of ecosystem services. Conversion of the watershed to Tree Crop, Food Crop, Grassland or Settlement could reduce the economic value of ESs by 4%–80 %. The study demonstrates that ecosystem services assessment could provide important information for conservation and development policies related to watershed management in the tropics. To ensure ecosystem service supply, the risks of land use change should be considered in watershed conservation strategies including land use zoning and adaptive management systems.

The effect of hydrological variability on stepped fishways

River systems are highly dynamic, affecting all associated structures and their derived uses. This is particularly relevant for applications such as hydropower production and other water abstractions. This dynamic nature also extends to mitigation measures like fishways, which are vital for reducing the impact of river fragmentation on fish populations. Fishways must be designed to balance biological and hydraulic fish requirements, needing adaptability to varying boundary conditions. This study examines the effect of hydrological variability on fish passage through fishways, particularly for the Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei). We hypothesized that hydrological scenarios can significantly affect upstream fish passage. To test this, we conducted laboratory and field studies, assessing fish movement under different boundary conditions. We compared passage rates, time metrics, and their correlations with the evolution of fishway hydraulics, and employed survival analysis to determine biometric limits. Our findings show that hydrological changes markedly influenced fish passage rates and timings, producing fish size selection and highlighting the impact of factors such as maximum velocity and power dissipation in the studied metrics. These insights underline the necessity of incorporating hydrological variability into fishway design and management, enhancing their effectiveness for fish conservation in river ecosystems, particularly under growing climatic uncertainties. This research underscores and discusses the need for comprehensive, long-term hydrodynamic studies in fishway assessment and design, advocating for adaptive management strategies to accommodate environmental changes.

Geographic variation in resistance of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) to wind loading across different wind environments in Europe

The harmful impacts of wind disturbances are expected to increase in European forests more under relatively mild wind environments (e.g. North-East Europe) compared to harsh wind conditions (e.g. British Isles). They are also expected to increase particularly under loose soil conditions (e.g. organic soils). However, harmful impacts of wind disturbances may be mitigated by such adaptive management, which improves the mechanical stability of trees. Populations of widespread tree species, such as Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), are highly plastic in terms of morphology and ecology, resulting in geographic variation of the traits crucial also for tree mechanical stability. The aim of this study was to assess the regional differences in the resistance of Scots pine to wind loading between populations along the European West-East gradient of wind environments. Furthermore, the local differences between neighbouring stands on freely draining mineral and drained deep peat soils in Latvia were assessed. The loading resistance of Scots pine was consistent among the studied populations across the gradient of European wind environments, suggesting regional variation in adjustment of traits crucial for tree mechanical stability. Whereas Scots pines growing in neighbouring stands on freely draining mineral and drained deep peat exhibited differences in loading resistance, suggesting specific local acclimations. However, to account for genetic control over traits crucial for tree mechanical stability, loading resistance of Scots pine populations needs to be assessed in common gardens.

Spatiotemporal variation and teleconnections of extreme precipitation in the Upper Indus Basin: insights for natural hazard assessment

ABSTRACT The study investigates trends and teleconnections of extreme precipitation events in the Upper Indus Basin (UIB) within the Indian region, part of the crucial geo-ecological Hindu Kush Himalayan Mountain system. Utilizing high-resolution (10 km × 10 km) HAR data from 2002 to 2013, we analyzed 11 indices established by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI) to observe variations in extreme precipitation at the monthly, seasonal, and annual time scale. The result shows an increase in dry and wet extreme precipitation frequency and intensity, increasing monsoon precipitation and a shift of winter precipitation, increasing continuous dry days. Using the APHRODITE daily (0.25° × 0.25°) data from 1952 to 2014, continuous wavelet transform and wavelet coherence analysis indicate significant periodicities and correlations with large-scale climate anomalies such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Wavelet coherence analysis reveals that monthly extreme precipitation events significantly correlate with ENSO at a 3–5 years periodicity, while annual extremes show significant coherence with NAO at 8–10 years and over 16 years periodicities. The study highlights the impact of global climate change on regional precipitation and the need for adaptive water management policies to mitigate flood risks during the rainy season and address water scarcity in the dry season.

Effective dynamic energy management algorithm for grid-interactive microgrid with hybrid energy storage system

Microgrids offer an optimistic solution for delivering electricity to remote regions and incorporating renewable energy into existing power systems. However, the energy balance between generation and consumption remains a significant challenge in microgrid setups. This research presents an adaptive energy management approach for grid-interactive microgrids. The DC microgrid is established by combining solar PV with a battery-supercapacitor (SC) hybrid energy storage system (HESS). The proposed approach integrates the frequency separation strategy with a rule-based algorithm to ensure optimal power sharing among sources while maintaining the safe operation of storage units. Specifically, the battery meets steady-state energy demands, the SC addresses transient power requirements, and the grid support is tailored to system needs. The method employs the dq reference frame technique to control the grid inverter (VSC). The key merits include efficient power allocation, fast regulation of the DC link voltage irrespective of load or generation variations, seamless transition between scenarios, and introduction of a straightforward battery state of charge (SOC)-based coefficient for allocating power between the battery and the grid while enhancing the power quality within the grid. Moreover, safety measures prevent the SC from overcharging, the battery from high current, overcharging, and deep discharging, potentially extending their lifespan. Validation and implementation of the method are conducted using MATLAB/Simulink.

Multi-objective adaptive energy management strategy for fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles considering fuel cell health state

This study proposes a multi-objective adaptive energy management strategy for fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles considering fuel cell health state. By integrating rule-based control with multi-objective optimization methods, the strategy aims to improve system efficiency, extend the lifespan of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), and reduce operating costs. Based on a comprehensive model of PEMFC output characteristics and lifetime degradation, this study introduces an optimized point line (OPL) strategy. This strategy dynamically adjusts operating constraints according to the state of health (SOH) of the PEMFC, ensuring optimal vehicle performance throughout its lifecycle. To optimize the OPL strategy parameters, a particle swarm optimization algorithm with compression factor was employed, enhancing the strategy’s optimization efficiency, adaptability, and robustness to better handle various real-world operating conditions. The strategy was evaluated under US06 and WLTC driving cycles and compared with traditional power following (PF) and point line (PL) strategies. Results show that compared to the PL strategy, the OPL strategy achieved a 36.4% and 34.2% reduction in operating costs under US06 and WLTC cycles, respectively. Moreover, PEMFC lifetime degradation decreased by 44.9% and 39.4% in these cycles. In high-power regions, the average operating efficiency of PEMFC improved by 2%. The strategy demonstrated good adaptability to different driving conditions, providing an effective solution for optimizing the performance and durability of fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles.

An insight into architectural design studio education space from a "time" perspective

This study offers a comprehensive literature review of the evolution of design studio education, focusing on the integration of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) technologies. The research explores current and future design studio models by examining the development of architectural design studio education and the importance of its physical spaces within a timeline framework. The literature review identifies key insights, analyzes patterns, and integrates findings to present a narrative of architectural education's historical evolution and prospects. The study highlights significant shifts in design studio education, moving from the traditional master-apprentice relationship to contemporary design studio spaces within architecture schools. It emphasizes the impact of social, economic, and technological developments on these models, particularly the shift to remote education necessitated by COVID-19. This transition highlighted the need for alternatives to physical studio spaces, directing attention to VR, AR, and MR technologies as potential solutions. Through a meticulous review process, this study examines how these emerging technologies can provide immersive and interactive learning experiences, enhancing flexibility and accessibility in design education. It discusses the benefits and challenges of integrating these technologies, considering their potential to function without needing a specific physical studio. Ultimately, this study contributes to the field by offering theoretical insights and practical guidelines for educators. It explores alternative models to enhance adaptability and addresses the implications of technological adaptation and crisis management. The findings enrich the academic literature and foster future research and discussion on the evolution of design studio education in the digital era.

Prospects on the use of EIA as a Tool for Coastal Resources Conservation

The successful application of EIA in coastal resource conservation has underscored its potential as an effective environmental management tool. Traditional EIA processes often focus on the impacts of individual projects in isolation. However, coastal environments are influenced by multiple activities and stressors. There is a growing recognition of the importance of assessing cumulative impacts to ensure more holistic environmental management. It is essential to implement adaptive management practices that allow for ongoing monitoring and adjustment of mitigation strategies based on real-world outcomes. To enhance the effectiveness of EIA, therefore, it should be integrated with due considerations on environmental impacts at the policy, plan, and program levels, providing a broader context for individual project assessments. This integration can lead to more coherent and sustainable coastal management strategies.

Potential use of Environmental Management Plan for the Sustainability of Coastal Area and Resources

The potential use of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) for the sustainability of coastal areas has demonstrated significant benefits in enhancing environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement. However, challenges such as data collection, monitoring, and the effectiveness of mitigation measures must be addressed to fully realize the potential of EMPs. By investing in baseline data, implementing robust monitoring and adaptive management practices, enhancing stakeholder engagement, integrating EMPs with broader management frameworks, and allocating adequate resources, the effectiveness and sustainability of EMPs can be significantly improved.

Why Can’t We All Just Get Along? Conflict and Collaboration in Urban Forest Management

AbstractUrban forest management is crucial for supporting human well-being, ecosystems, and society, particularly with expanding global urban population and multi-uses of these urban greenspaces. This literature review examines the conceptualization and factors that contribute to conflicts and/or collaborations in urban forest management, including, but not limited to, diverse actors’ uses, needs, and perceptions. Using PRISMA methods, we systematically reviewed 176 scholarly articles published between 2013 and 2021 and found that most articles were primarily from the United States, Australia, and Canada. Findings highlight the need for clearer definitions of collaboration, emphasizing communication, operational tasks, planning, and shared beliefs among actors. Positive collaborations involved multi-level engagement and inclusive decision-making. In most cases, multiple issues contributed to conflict, including a variety of stakeholders with differing viewpoints on a given situation. Conflicts are commonly complex situations that do not lend themselves to a one-size-fits-all solution and tend to be a unique manifestation of the people, places, and perspectives involved. Our review can inform practitioners about more inclusive practices and adaptive management of urban forests. We conclude by providing lessons learned and suggestions for future research on stakeholder involvement, public education, governance, policy, decision-making, and the role of biophysical and ecosystem services in urban forest collaboration and conflicts.

The collateral effects of COVID-19 on coastal and marine environments

The COVID-19 pandemic has generated a global health and economic crisis, significantly impacting coastal and marine environments. Lockdowns and restrictions, while necessary for public health, led to both positive and negative environmental consequences. Reduced human activity resulted in decreased pollution and habitat disruption, allowing for ecosystem recovery and improved water quality. However, the surge in single-use plastics and personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic exacerbated plastic pollution. Additionally, the economic downturn severely affected coastal communities reliant on tourism and fisheries, highlighting the need for sustainable recovery strategies. This Special Issue explores these collateral effects, emphasizing the importance of adaptive management and resilient governance in safeguarding coastal and marine ecosystems against future crises.

Pastoral coping and adaptive management strategies to climate change in communal areas in Namibia and South Africa

Climate change has brought about credible changes in arid landscapes which have resulted in further challenges for pastoralists who require good quality rangeland resources to sustain their livestock. This study assessed local level coping and adaptive management strategies by pastoralists in Namibia and South Africa using a capital assets approach, and also explored non-climate related barriers that increase their vulnerability to climate change. A case study approach was used, which included focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews. The main findings of the research indicate that pastoralists have been exposed to increased temperature extremes and droughts of varying duration over time which reduced the quality and quantity of forage and resulted in losses of income and animal health. The 46 different coping and adaptation strategies used by pastoralists included financial (n = 15), natural (n = 15), human (n = 12), physical (n = 2) and social (n = 2) capital. Of these, 61% of the strategies were common between the two countries. Strategies included income diversification, supplementary feeding and livestock mobility. Pastoralists had to overcome a hierarchy of barriers to implement their coping and adaptation strategies, which were largely related to human capital in Namibia and to natural capital in South Africa. These barriers included a lack of access to grazing lands, land degradation and the loss of traditional knowledge to manage livestock and rangeland resources. Policy development should take these barriers into account while building on the foundation of existing adaptation strategies to reduce the vulnerability to climate change of pastoralists in dryland regions.