Physiological response after translocation differs between source populations in a threatened mammal.

Conservation translocations are an important tool in the prevention of species loss, but the translocation process is associated with numerous stressors. Non-invasively monitoring stress physiology via faecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGMs) can provide valuable insights into factors impacting translocation success and how to mitigate negative impacts. After validating an assay to measure FGMs in greater stick-nest rats (Leporillus conditor), we examined whether translocation caused a predictable change in physiology. We compared longer-term (one to five months post-translocation) physiological responses across three source populations (remnant-wild, reintroduced-wild, captive-bred), and investigated effects of body condition and sex on FGMs. Notably, FGMs of the remnant-wild population did not significantly change post-translocation, while the reintroduced-wild population exhibited a significant decrease and the captive-bred population a significant increase. Individuals in lower body condition had the highest FGMs in both wild-type populations, whereas the captive-bred population showed the opposite relationship. There was no difference in FGMs between the sexes. Our work highlights that physiological responses after translocation may not be uniform and source population history is an important factor to be considered, emphasizing the need for novel ideas that facilitate successful adaptation. By better understanding how species and individuals respond to translocation, we can improve translocation outcomes.

Return to 1616: Multispecies Fauna Reconstruction Requires Thinking Outside the Box.

Conservation translocations have become increasingly popular for 'rewilding' areas that have lost their native fauna. These multispecies translocations are complex and need to consider the requirements of each individual species as well as the influence of likely interactions among them. The Dirk Hartog Island National Park Ecological Restoration Project, Return to 1616, aspires to restore ecological function to Western Australia's largest island. Since 2012, pest animals have been eradicated, and conservation translocations of seven fauna species have been undertaken, with a further six planned. Here, we present a synthesis of the innovative approaches undertaken in restoring the former faunal assemblage of Dirk Hartog Island and the key learnings gathered as the project has progressed.

Two species, one island: Retrospective analysis of threatened fauna translocations with divergent outcomes.

Translocations are globally a popular tool used with the intention of improving threatened species conservation and re-establishing ecosystem function. While practitioners strive for successful outcomes the failure rate of translocations continues to be high. We demonstrate how predictive modelling can contribute to more informed decision making and hence potentially improve the success rate of translocation programs. Two species, the Djoongari (Shark Bay mouse) Pseudomys fieldi and the golden bandicoot Isoodon auratus barrowensis, were introduced independently to Doole Island in the Exmouth Gulf of Western Australia. We used population viability analysis to critique the outcomes of these translocations and provide an example of how this tool can be incorporated with expert knowledge to predict likely outcomes of translocations. Djoongari did not establish on the island after seven translocations over nine years, while golden bandicoots established a population after just one release event. Retrospective population viability analysis (of data that was unavailable prior to the translocations) predicted and clarified the reasons behind the outcomes of both translocations. Golden bandicoots have considerably higher demographic plasticity than Djoongari, which were never likely to establish on the island. We conclude that the failure of the Djoongari translocation was due to interactions between sparse habitat, native predators and cyclonic storm surges, whereas golden bandicoots have demonstrated habitat flexibility and an ability to recover from multiple natural disasters. As a result we (1) remind conservation planners of the importance of quantifying likely refuges and habitat availability at release sites, (2) suggest practitioners consider how different threats (including natural disasters) may interact at potential release sites and (3) advocate for the incorporation of predictive modelling during the planning stages of translocations, particularly for conservation introductions where no precedent exists for the species' survival at a particular location.

Community football teams for people with intellectual disabilities in secure settings: "They take you off the ward, it was like a nice day, and then you get like medals at the end".

BACKGROUND: People with learning disabilities (LD) are particularly vulnerable to mental health and behavioural difficulties, and it has been shown that regular exercise can improve psychosocial well-being as well as physical fitness. This research aims to explore the experiences of men with LD detained in secure settings who have engaged in community football training programmes and identify the benefits of such provision. METHOD: Interviews were conducted with eight patients in a forensic LD service, discussing their experiences of participating in community football. Template analysis was undertaken on the transcripts. RESULTS: Two master themes were identified: physical fitness and psychosocial benefits. As the analysis progressed, new emerging themes were identified around role identity and achievement, as well as extending and refining some of the themes from the original template including fun and belonging. Some anticipated themes were removed from the template entirely. CONCLUSION: The psychosocial benefits of organised community sports programmes far outweigh the physical health benefits. Careful consideration must be given to where on a treatment and rehabilitation pathway non-traditional therapeutic interventions such as sports programmes are offered as an adjunct to specific risk reduction interventions for people with LD in secure settings.

"It's good, they're like me; the same but different." An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the identities of women with down's syndrome.

BACKGROUND: For people with disabilities, identity formation is based on responses to hierarchical values determined by able populations. Some adopt a disability identity, whereas others may seek to conceal their disability. No research has focused on how women with Down's Syndrome form an identity. DESIGN: Eight women with Down's Syndrome took part in semi-structured interviews designed to find out more about their individual and shared identities. The transcripts were analysed using interpretive phenomenological analysis. FINDINGS: Negative assumptions of others and oppressive, paternalistic care often lead to a lack of ownership over narratives. "Finding a place in society" is an attempt to challenge this and gain a sense of ownership over their lives. CONCLUSIONS: This research uncovered the individual and shared identities that women with Down's Syndrome construct. Services need to be aware of the role they have in supporting these women to develop autonomy and ownership over their lives.

Intensive Interaction Training for Paid Carers: 'Looking, Looking and Find Out When They Want to Relate to You'.

BACKGROUND: Intensive interaction (II) is a communication approach useful for working with people with severe intellectual disabilities. Health and social care providers offer II training courses to paid carers working in local services with the goal of improving social communication for their clients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight paid carers who had been trained in II were interviewed 2-3 years after training, to explore how their practice had changed, and whether any changes were sustainable. Interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. RESULTS: Analysis revealed a master theme of emotional and practical endurance, with empowerment, better understanding and perceived barriers to implementation comprising subthemes. CONCLUSIONS: Despite actual and perceived barriers to the enduring use of II, all participants spoke positively of the approach and were continuing to use II in practice.

The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for supporting people with intellectual disabilities: a narrative review.

A number of studies have used mindfulness-based interventions to influence the behavior of people with intellectual disabilities, to improve their quality of life, and to reduce challenging behavior. The present review critically evaluates 18 studies and assesses the clinical and academic impact of their findings. Strengths identified included replicable methodological approaches, use of multiple baseline designs, strong construct and criterion validity, and consideration of the mechanisms by which mindfulness influences behavior change. Limitations included a lack of randomized controlled trials, inclusion of qualitative data without structured analysis, limited use of statistical analyses, and problems with sampling leading to difficulties generalizing findings. There was also a paucity of research investigating the impact of "Dialectical Behavior Therapy" and "Acceptance and Commitment Therapy" and the role of mindfulness within these approaches. Further research is warranted in this regard.