Complex Landscape Research Articles

The ‘Great Survivor’ lives on? Resilience, austerity and devolution in English local government

ABSTRACT This article explores interpretations of resilience within English local government. Using a historical and multi-scalar framework, it argues that previous accounts of resilience in English local government have neglected the effect of sub-national institutional restructuring and compounding the impact austerity has had on local government capacity to navigate this complex landscape. The article situates resilience in the broader context of decentralisation, illustrating the benefits of adopting a broad spatial perspective to focus on resilience within local government systems. Continuing austerity and inconsistently applied institutional reorganisation are highlighted as potential twin threats to the ‘survivability’ of English local government.

Reshaping Knowledge Flow: The Impact of Ecollaboration Platforms in It-Project Knowledge Transfer

This research embarks on an in-depth exploration of the transformative dynamics initiated by eCollaboration platforms in the field of IT project management, with a particular focus on knowledge transfer processes. The study delves into the intricacies of knowledge transfer, encompassing both its intra-project dynamics and its transfer from projects to project-based organisations (PBOs). The overall aim is to unravel the impact of eCollaboration platforms on this complex process and to provide insights into the evolving landscape of knowledge management in the context of IT projects. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative content analysis approach. Recognising the paradigmatic aspects that might limit insights for proponents of the quantitative paradigm, the chosen approach facilitates an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted nature of knowledge transfer within IT project management. The study involves a cohort of eleven project managers in Austria, with meticulous interviews conducted and recorded to ensure a comprehensive data collection process. The subsequent data analysis involves a systematic evaluation of the accumulated information derived from these expert interviews. This comprehensive analysis integrates both quantitative and qualitative components, providing a nuanced understanding of how eCollaboration platforms influence knowledge transfer within the complex landscape of IT projects. The research findings provide valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of knowledge transfer in the context of IT project management. By examining the impact of eCollaboration platforms on this process, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise in the area of knowledge management in IT projects. These findings have practical implications for project managers and organisations seeking to optimise knowledge transfer processes within their projects and project-based organisations. Ultimately, this research serves as a timely exploration of the transformative potential of eCollaboration platforms to reshape the flow of knowledge within IT project management. It paves the way for improved collaboration and knowledge sharing in the digital age and offers a critical perspective on the evolving landscape of IT project management practices.

Constructing Ethnolinguistic Identities: A Critical Examination of Language and Power Dynamics in Diasporic Communities

This research investigates the complex interplay between language and power in the formation of ethnolinguistic identities within diasporic communities. As globalization accelerates, diasporic groups navigate a complex landscape where traditional linguistic practices intersect with new socio-political realities. This study aims to critically examine how language functions as a tool for negotiating identity and power within these communities, emphasizing the role of language ideologies and practices in shaping social dynamics. The primary objectives are to explore how language serves as a medium for the construction and negotiation of ethnolinguistic identities and to understand the influence of power relations on these processes. Specifically, the study seeks to identify the ways in which language practices reflect and challenge power structures within diasporic contexts and how these practices contribute to the formation of collective and individual identities. This research is a multi-sited ethnographic approach,and integrates discourse analysis across several diasporic communities. Findings reveal that language serves as a strategic resource for negotiating social status and ethnic belonging. Diasporic individuals employ code-switching, language reclamation, and multilingualism to assert identity and resist assimilation pressures. The study highlights how language ideologies both reinforce and contest existing power structures, demonstrating the dynamic role of language in shaping ethnolinguistic identities amidst shifting socio-political landscapes.

Soil erodibility mapping using remote sensing and in situ soil data with random forest model in a mountainous catchment of Indian Himalayas.

Land degradation is accelerating in the Himalayan ecosystem, resulting in the loss of soil nutrients due to severe erosion. Soil erosion presents a significant environmental challenge, resulting in both on-site and off-site consequences, such as reduced soil productivity and siltation in reservoirs. Soil erodibility (K factor), an inherent soil property, determines the susceptibility of soils to erosion. Sampling across hilly and mountainous terrain pose challenges due to its complex landscape. Despite these challenges, it is essential to study K factor variations in different land use/land cover types to comprehend the threat of erosion. Digital soil mapping offers an opportunity to overcome this limitation by providing spatial predictions of soil properties. The objective of our study is to map the spatial distribution of soil erodibility using the Random Forest (RF) model, a machine learning method based on sampled in situ soil data and environmental covariates. We collected 556 surface soil samples from the mountainous catchment (Tehri dam catchment) using the stratified random sampling approach. The model performed satisfactorily in both training (r2 = 0.91; RMSE = 0.00185) and testing (r2 = 0.45; RMSE = 0.00318) phases. Subsequently, we generated a digital map with a resolution of 12.5m to depict the distribution of the K factor. Our analysis revealed that key environmental variables influencing the prediction of the K factor included geology, mean NDVI, and climatic factors. The average K factor value was estimated at 0.0304 and ranging from 0.0251 to 0.0400 t ha h ha-1MJ-1mm-1. A higher K factor was observed in the barren land (0.0344) primarily located in the higher and trans-Himalayan region of seasonally snow-covered areas. These areas typically feature young soils with weak soil formation and unstable soil aggregates. Subsequently cropland/cultivated soils (0.0307) exhibited higher K factor values due to the breakdown of soil aggregates by ploughing activities and exposing carbon to decomposition. The average K factor value of evergreen (0.0294) and deciduous (0.0295) forests were the lowest compared to other land use/land cover types indicating the role of forests in resisting soil erosion. By assessing and predicting soil erodibility, land planners and farmers can implement erosion control measures to protect soil health, prevent sedimentation in water bodies, and sustain agricultural productivity in the Himalayas.

The Role of Social Media in Shaping Public Opinion: A Comparative Analysis of Traditional vs. Digital Media Platforms

This study examines the role of social media in shaping public opinion, contrasting it with traditional media platforms through a qualitative literature review. As digital media becomes increasingly prevalent, understanding its impact on public discourse is essential. The research highlights the unique attributes of social media, including interactivity, immediacy, and user-generated content, which differentiate it from traditional media formats such as television, radio, and print. By synthesizing findings from a variety of scholarly articles, this study identifies key themes regarding how social media influences public perception, mobilizes communities, and facilitates the spread of information. Furthermore, the analysis reveals significant challenges, including the prevalence of misinformation and echo chambers, which can distort public opinion and polarize discourse. The results indicate that while social media offers opportunities for broader engagement and diverse perspectives, it also necessitates critical literacy among users to navigate the complexities of digital information landscapes. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on media studies by providing a comprehensive overview of the comparative effects of traditional and digital media platforms on public opinion formation. The findings underscore the need for further research into the ethical implications of social media usage and its potential to shape democratic processes.

Posttreatment health interventions for adult cancer survivors and their families: an integrated review

PurposeThis review aimed to synthesize the literature regarding health interventions delivered to adult cancer survivors and their families during posttreatment phase.MethodsAn integrative literature review was conducted that included quantitative and qualitative studies. The search was carried out in four databases using the same terms or MeSH terms and included data from January 2012 to February 2024. After quality assessment, data were extracted and synthesized. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO.ResultsAmong the seven studies included, two studies were randomized controlled trials, three were observational, and two utilized a qualitative approach. The studies originated from France, Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA. In total, 704 participants were included, 294 were cancer survivors, 40 were non-cancer patients, 271 were family and caregivers, and 99 were healthcare professionals. The studies assessed survival durations after cancer treatment, ranging from 18 months to 6 years. The sparse interventions found across the studies used a multifaceted approach tailored to address various aspects of cancer survivorship and caregiver support.ConclusionThis review provides insights into the complex landscape of posttreatment support requirements for cancer survivors and their family caregivers. This finding underscores the critical necessity for additional intervention research involving comprehensive, accessible, and supportive services that address the multifaceted dimensions of survivorship for the patient and family as a unit.

Ethical Dilemmas in African Human Resource Management: A Literature Review

In the African context, the management of human resources (HR) involves the navigation of intricate ethical issues influenced by a myriad of social, cultural and economic factors. This study, based on systematic literature review, scrutinized ethical dilemmas in Human Resources Management in Africa. Specifically, the study assessed the areas within HR practices that are predisposed to unethical conduct and identified the core ethical issues prevalent in organizations, thereby giving rise to ethical dilemmas. The study utilized a systematic qualitative synthesis, employing the nomothetic-based content analysis, to scrutinize data extracted from 65 journal articles. The findings delineate two primary domains in which HR practices are susceptible to unethical conduct. The first is the management of core HR functions, such as recruitment, performance appraisal and remuneration, which are vulnerable to unethical practices like favoritism and corruption. The second domain involves balancing the often-conflicting interests of employers and employees. Four primary ethical issues emerged as significant sources of dilemmas: bribery and corruption, misconduct (physical, verbal, and sexual), nepotism and discrimination. These challenges suggest a pressing need for transparent, merit-based recruitment processes and regular ethics training HR professionals to navigate the complex landscape of organizational and employee interests. Implementing gender and diversity policies is crucial in addressing discrimination based on gender, ethnicity or disability. Additionally, establishing robust whistle-blowing mechanisms can enable employees to report unethical conduct confidentially, thereby strengthening organizational integrity and fostering a more inclusive professional environment. Comprehensive ethical frameworks will not only mitigate dilemmas but also enhance the overall credibility and effectiveness of HRM practices in the African context.

The Effect of 5Q Parental Education on Children's Emotion through Healing of Inner Child among Parents

The research aim of this study is to understand the relationship between parental emotional well-being and child outcome. This study delves into the profound impact of 5Q parental education on children's emotional well-being through the intricate process of healing the inner child among parents. The 5Q framework, encompassing Intelligence Quotient (IQ), Emotional Quotient (EQ), Adversity Quotient (AQ), Social Quotient (SQ), and the innovative "You Quotient" (UQ), serves as the cornerstone of this transformative educational program. By intertwining principles of personal growth, self-awareness, and effective communication, the 5Q approach aims to empower parents to navigate the complex landscape of parenthood with confidence and competence. Central to this study is the concept of the inner child, deeply rooted in psychological theory, which symbolizes unresolved emotions and experiences from childhood that continue to influence adult behaviours and familial dynamics. Through a qualitative research methodology, this study rigorously examines the experiences of a diverse sample of 100 participants engaged in a comprehensive 6-month 5Q parental education program. Results from the qualitative analysis revealed a profound impact of the 5Q parental education program on participants' emotional well-being and parenting practices. An overwhelming majority of 82 out of 100 participants reported significant enhancements in their emotional intelligence (EQ) following the healing of their inner child. This transformation was characterized by heightened self-awareness, improved emotional regulation, improved parenting skills and strategies, strengthened parent-child relationship that foster suitability relationship. This study underscores the transformative potential of 5Q parental education in fostering nurturing family environments conducive to holistic child development. The understanding of the relationship between parental emotional well-being and child outcome is emphasized. By addressing the emotional needs of parents and facilitating the healing of their inner child, this program not only empowers individuals but also lays the foundation for resilient, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent generations to come, laying the foundation for their optimal development.

Two Anthropomorphic Stelae Connected With a Platform‐Like Structure in the Area of Ḥimā (Saudi Arabia): New Data From Southwestern Arabia

ABSTRACTSince 2020, the Saudi‐French Archaeological and Epigraphic Mission to Najrān (MAFSN) has been conducting additional archaeological surveys and small‐scale excavations in the Ḥimā area, providing a wealth of data from different historical periods. Preliminary analysis of the structures and artefacts discovered revealed a complex landscape characterised by patterns of continuous human activity from the Palaeolithic to modern times, underlining the historical importance of this area as a transit hub along the caravan routes. The identification of various structures has made it possible to establish a basic typology and enabled a distribution study of the human presence, allowing comparisons with neighbouring regions. This paper presents the discovery of two anthropomorphic stelae associated with a platform‐like structure excavated in November 2021 on the eastern side of Jabal al‐Kawkab, al‑Gharaziyyāt area. The documentation of these stelae lays the groundwork for a re‐evaluation of the Bronze Age occupation of the area.

Development of the World Federation of Hemophilia Shared Decision-Making Tool.

The use of shared decision-making (SDM) in clinical settings is becoming more prevalent. The evolving and increasingly complex treatment landscape of haemophilia management has augmented the need and desire for SDM between patients and their healthcare team. SDM tools have been used in other chronic conditions and can be an effective form of education for patients and clinicians. The World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) partnered with people with haemophilia (PWH), patient advocacy groups, and healthcare practitioners to form an expert working group to develop an educational tool for PWH and their caregivers. The primary objectives included educating PWH on the available prophylactic treatments and facilitating discussion between PWH and their healthcare team. The tool was proposed and developed by the expert working group, workshopped at conference round tables, and evaluated in two focus groups. The interactive WFH SDM Tool guides users through the SDM treatment journey and provides an opportunity for reflection on current disease impact and treatment preferences, educational fact sheets and videos, and a comparison between treatment classes. Two forms of the SDM Tool are available: an online platform with a summary page that may be printed and shared and a printable workbook. All evidence in the tool is based on the prescribing information or phase III clinical trial publications. The Tool will be updated twice each year. The WFH SDM Tool is the first available resource that translates published guidance on SDM in haemophilia into a practical, user-friendly tool aimed at facilitating patient-centred treatment decisions.

Ukraine-Russian War Challenges and Opportunities

Our world has always faced numerous issues, driven by both natural cycles and the egoistic desires of states. Global organizations struggle to prevent human rights violations and environmental damage, as international structures from the early industrial era have become ineffective. A new Cold War has emerged, shifting from military to psycho-material spheres, with a focus on AI, drones, cybersecurity, and nuclear weapons. In the northwest of Eurasia, a new military intervention among Slavs is in full swing. Two forces, each stubbornly refusing to capitulate, fight against each other, raising questions about the morality of their actions. Every people, ethnicity, or nation has the right to self-determination, but these conflicts often lead to significant geopolitical tensions. Ukraine, a sovereign state, is at the heart of this global tension. It has the right to decide what is best for its people and to choose its own path of development. However, in our globalized world, every action can have far-reaching consequences, much like the "butterfly effect." Ukraine must consider the interests of its former partners and modern neighbors to navigate this complex landscape. At this critical juncture, Ukraine must reflect on its choices, asking itself: "What did we overlook?" The country's decisions are pivotal, not only for its future but also for global stability. Every move in this geopolitical chess game has the potential to alter the balance of power, making Ukraine's choices crucial in shaping the outcome of this new era of global relations.

Understanding Public Opinion towards ESG and Green Finance with the Use of Explainable Artificial Intelligence

This study leverages explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques to analyze public sentiment towards Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, climate change, and green finance. It does so by developing a novel multi-task learning framework combining aspect-based sentiment analysis, co-reference resolution, and contrastive learning to extract nuanced insights from a large corpus of social media data. Our approach integrates state-of-the-art models, including the SenticNet API, for sentiment analysis and implements multiple XAI methods such as LIME, SHAP, and Permutation Importance to enhance interpretability. Results reveal predominantly positive sentiment towards environmental topics, with notable variations across ESG categories. The contrastive learning visualization demonstrates clear sentiment clustering while highlighting areas of uncertainty. This research contributes to the field by providing an interpretable, trustworthy AI system for ESG sentiment analysis, offering valuable insights for policymakers and business stakeholders navigating the complex landscape of sustainable finance and climate action. The methodology proposed in this paper advances the current state of AI in ESG and green finance in several ways. By combining aspect-based sentiment analysis, co-reference resolution, and contrastive learning, our approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of public sentiment towards ESG factors than traditional methods. The integration of multiple XAI techniques (LIME, SHAP, and Permutation Importance) offers a transparent view of the subtlety of the model’s decision-making process, which is crucial for building trust in AI-driven ESG assessments. Our approach enables a more accurate representation of public opinion, essential for informed decision-making in sustainable finance. This paper paves the way for more transparent and explainable AI applications in critical domains like ESG.

8463 Navigating Medical Decisions: A Study Of Second Opinions From Both The Physician And Patient Standpoints

Abstract Disclosure: O. Derevyanko: None. Background: In contemporary healthcare, the concept of seeking second opinions has become increasingly prevalent, shaping the dynamics of patient-physician relationships. This study aims to delve into the multifaceted landscape of second opinions, examining the perspectives of both doctors and patients. As medical decision-making becomes more collaborative, understanding the factors influencing the second opinion process is crucial for enhancing patient outcomes and fostering effective communication within the healthcare system. Objectives: • To identify patterns and discrepancies between doctors' and patients' viewpoints on the importance and impact of second opinions.• To provide insights that can contribute to the development of strategies for improving the second opinion experience for both doctors and patients.• To assess how often patients seek for second opinion MethodsA comprehensive survey conducted among 756 doctors endocrinologists in social media Instagram , aiming to explore their attitudes and concerns regarding patients seeking second opinions in medical practice and 787 patients to find out how many of them seek for a second opinion. Results: Out of the surveyed doctors, 51.3% (n=388) expressed a positive and accepting attitude toward patients seeking second opinions. This majority acknowledged the importance of patient autonomy and the right to seek additional perspectives on their medical conditions.A significant portion, 34.5% (n=261) of doctors, voiced concerns related to potential drawbacks associated with second opinions. These concerns primarily revolved around the possibility of patients receiving conflicting advice or experiencing delays in crucial treatment decisions.A noteworthy 14.2% (n=107) of doctors indicated concerns related to the potential impact of second opinions on the trust between doctors and patients. This subset of professionals expressed apprehensions about how seeking additional perspectives might influence the doctor-patient relationship. 554 out of 787 patients reported about seeking for the second opinion most of the time. Conclusion: The insights gleaned from this survey shed light on the complex landscape of doctors' perspectives on second opinions. Recognizing the nuances within these attitudes is imperative for developing strategies that support collaborative decision-making and patient-centered care in the medical community. This research contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discourse surrounding patient autonomy and doctor-patient relationships. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Enhancing Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Strategies for Navigating Innovative Technologies and Regulatory Approvals in the Cosmetic Industry

Abstract: The cosmetic industry, driven by innovation, constantly seeks safer, more effective, and sustainable products. However, regulatory hurdles often impede the introduction of innovative cosmetics. This paper explores the convergence of advanced technologies and regulatory conformity, emphasizing the need for collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches. Through an extensive review of literature and case studies, we reveal the multifaceted challenges within the industry. These encompass shifting consumer expectations, ingredient safety concerns, and intricate global regulations. Cross-functional collaborations, uniting researchers, regulators, industry experts, and consumers, are pivotal, driving innovation while ensuring product safety and compliance. Our research stresses the importance of a proactive, all-encompassing approach to product development. This approach should integrate cutting-edge technologies, rigorous safety assessments, and smart regulatory strategies from project inception. Additionally, it emphasizes engaging stakeholders, sharing knowledge, and practicing transparency to earn trust from consumers and regulators. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the balance between innovation and regulation in the cosmetic industry, advocating for a paradigm shift characterized by collaboration and interdisciplinary efforts. By aligning innovation with regulatory compliance, the industry can effectively navigate the complex landscape of modern cosmetics, fostering the creation of safer, more sustainable, and consumer-centric products.

Exploring the energetic and conformational properties of the sequence space connecting naturally occurring RNA tetraloop receptor motifs.

Folded RNAs contain tertiary contact motifs whose structures and energetics are conserved across different RNAs. The transferable properties of RNA motifs simplify the RNA folding problem, but measuring energetic and conformational properties of many motifs remains a challenge. Here, we use a high-throughput thermodynamic approach to investigate how sequence changes alter the binding properties of naturally-occurring motifs, the GAAA tetraloop•tetraloop receptor (TLR) interactions. We measured the binding energies and conformational preferences of TLR sequences that span mutational pathways from the canonical 11ntR to two other natural TLRs, the IC3R and Vc2R. While the IC3R and Vc2R share highly similar energetic and conformational properties, the landscapes that map the sequence changes for their conversion from the 11ntR to changes in these properties differ dramatically. Differences in the energetic landscapes stem from the mutations needed to convert the 11ntR to the IC3R and Vc2R rather than a difference in the intrinsic energetic architectures of these TLRs. The conformational landscapes feature several non-native TLR variants with conformational preferences that differ from both the initial and final TLRs; these species represent potential branching points along the multidimensional sequence space to sequences with greater fitness in other RNA contexts with alternative conformational preferences. Our high-throughput, quantitative approach reveals the complex nature of sequence-fitness landscapes and leads to models for their molecular origins. Systematic and quantitative molecular approaches provide critical insights into understanding the evolution of natural RNAs as they traverse complex landscapes in response to selective pressures.

Indirect corporate political strategy in cross-border acquisitions: influence of political affinity on target-dependent firm lobbying

Purpose To mitigate the impact of legitimacy concerns, firms often depend on strategic partnerships that enable them to navigate both complex political landscapes and regulatory environments. In this paper, the authors expand research into the dynamics of indirect and collective forms of corporate political activities (CPA), particularly focusing on multinational enterprises (MNEs) originating from countries with low political affinity with the host country and its allies. Design/methodology/approach Using a sample consisting of 2,173 friendly acquisitions in the USA made by 1,612 foreign acquirers originating from 66 countries, the authors used Tobit regression analysis to test the direct and moderating hypotheses. Findings The empirical evidence shows that acquiring MNEs grappling with heightened legitimacy issues due to low political affinity between the involved countries are more inclined to leverage target firms for effective lobbying resources. This tendency is amplified when the multilateral political affinity between the home and the host country's allies is also considered. Originality/value The evolving nature of global politics and the increasing scrutiny of corporate-political interactions necessitate a deeper understanding of indirect CPA strategies. The findings of this research shed light on how bilateral and multilateral political relations affect MNEs’ corporate political activities, specifically in the form of indirect, collective lobbying.

Intimate wellness: expanding the scope of aesthetic nurses

The aesthetic medical industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by rapid scientific and technological advancements, increasing accessibility of treatments, and the persistent challenge of regulatory and ethical issues surrounding the provision of aesthetic treatments. As the industry evolves, aesthetic nurses find themselves navigating a complex and competitive landscape where maintaining a distinct niche becomes increasingly challenging. This article explores how nurses can incorporate intimate wellness into their practice to enhance patient outcomes and address critical aspects of women's health. Through a review of literature, patient surveys, and practitioner focus groups, this work underscores the need for clear clinical guidelines, comprehensive training, and further research to establish a framework for integrating intimate wellness into aesthetic nursing practice.

Exploring the Link Between Factors in Musculoskeletal Oncology Surgery Fellowships and Industry Supplemental Income.

Introduction In the complex landscape of healthcare economics, the financial relationship between physicians and industry remains a topic of significant interest and reflection. While the dynamics of industry relationships in certain orthopedic subspecialties have been well documented, the intricacies of industry payments within musculoskeletal (MSK) oncology programs have yet to be thoroughly explored. In this study, we aim to examine the relationship between academic and industry productivity at the fellowship level. Additionally, we seek to identify the associations between the flow of industry supplemental income to orthopedic oncologists and the specific residency and fellowship training programs they are affiliated with. Methodology A comprehensive retrospective analysis was conducted using data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Scopus, and other relevant databases in 2023. This study included 19 fellowship programs across the United States, encompassing a total of 68 faculty physicians. Various variables were examined, including H-index, lifetime supplemental income, geographical location, residency affiliation, and association with top-ranked hospitals. Results A statistically significant correlation was found between academic and industry productivity at the individual faculty level (p = 0.003), but not at the fellowship level (p = 0.198). The top 10% of earners accounted for approximately 70% of the total lifetime supplemental income among all fellowship faculty. Additionally, there was no statistically significant association between lifetime supplemental income or academic productivity per fellowship and geographical region, nor with the ranking of affiliated residency programs or hospitals. Conclusions Industry productivity among individual faculty in MSK oncology fellowship programs in the United States is significantly associated with academic productivity; however, this association was not observed at the fellowship level. Furthermore, no statistically significant relationship was found regarding the region or the ranking of the affiliated residency programs or hospitals.

Estimating sediment delivery ratio using the RUSLE-IC-SDR approach at a complex landscape: A case study at the Lower Snowy River area, Australia

Understanding the dynamics of sediment transport and deposition in natural landscapes is critical to developing cost-effective mitigation measures to control soil erosion and protect ecosystems. However, none of a single existing model can quantify sediment delivery ratio (SDR) and the impact factors such as vegetation and geomorphology, especially in a complex landscape. In this case study, we applied an integrated approach including the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) and the index of connectivity (IC) to assess hillslope erosion and SDR, namely RUSLE-IC-SDR, across a complex landscape in the Lower Snowy River area, Australia. The RUSLE factors were derived from a high-resolution (2 m) digital elevation model (DEM), digital soil maps, high-resolution rainfall data and remotely sensed fractional vegetation cover. A seven-class landform classification was delineated from the high-resolution DEM using a fuzzy logic landform model (FLAG). We further examined the impacts of rainfall, vegetation cover and geomorphology on sediment dynamics and distribution across the study area. Field and laboratory data from 10 plot sites across the study area were collected and used for model validation. This case study showed that the RUSLE-IC-SDR approach can assess the overall sediment budget and the impacts of rainfall, vegetation cover and geomorphology across a complex landscape. Findings from this study can identify and track the areas likely to generate high sediment yield for developing ecological restoration, feral animal management and other catchment management measures.

Tracking Small Animals in Complex Landscapes: AComparison of Localisation Workflows for Automated Radio Telemetry Systems.

Automated radio telemetry systems (ARTS) have the potential to revolutionise our understanding of animal movement by providing a near-continuous record of individual locations in the wild. However, localisation errors in ARTS data can be very high, especially in natural landscapes with complex vegetation structure and topography. This curtails the research questions that may be addressed with this technology. We set up an ARTS grid in a valley with heterogeneous vegetation cover in the Colombian high Andes and applied an analytical pipeline to test the effectiveness of localisation methods. We performed calibration trials to simulate animal movement in high- or low-flight, or walking on the ground, and compared workflows with varying decisions related to signal cleaning, selection, smoothing, and interpretation, along with four multilateration approaches. We also quantified the influence of spatial features on the system's accuracy. Results showed large variation in localisation error, ranging between 0.4-43.4 m and 474-1929 m, depending on the localisation method used. We found that the selection of higher radio signal strengths and data smoothing based on the temporal autocorrelation are useful tools to improve accuracy. Moreover, terrain ruggedness, height of movement, vegetation type, and the location of animals inside or outside the grid area influence localisation error. In the case of our study system, thousands of location points were successfully estimated for two high-altitude hummingbird species that previously lacked movement data. Our case study on hummingbirds suggests ARTS grids can be used to estimate small animals' home ranges, associations with vegetation types, and seasonality in occurrence. We present a comparative localisation pipeline, highlighting the variety of possible decisions while processing radio signal data. Overall, this study provides guidance to improve the resolution of location estimates, broadening the application of this tracking technology in the study of the spatial ecology of wild populations.