bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief interventions for hazardous drinkers delivered in primary care are equally effective in men and women
Authors: Ballesteros Javier , González‐Pinto Asunción , Querejeta Imanol , Ariño Julen
Published: December 2003

Background  Despite the accumulated evidence on the efficacy of brief interventions in hazardous drinkers some ambiguity remains regarding their differential effectiveness by gender.

Methods  Meta‐analysis of independent studies conducted in primary health care settings with a follow‐up of 6–12 months which report results separately by gender. Two outcome measures were selected: the quantity of typical weekly alcohol consumption and the frequency of drinkers who reported consumption below hazardous levels after the intervention.

Results  Seven studies were included in the meta‐analysis. The standardized effect  sizes  for  the  reduction  of  alcohol  consumption  were  similar  in  men  (d =− 0.25; 95% CI = − 0.34 to −0.17) and women (d = − 0.26; 95% CI = − 0.38 to − 0.13). The odds ratios (OR) for the frequency of individuals who drank below harmful levels were also similar (four studies; OR for men = 2.32; 95% CI = 1.78–2.93; OR for women = 2.31; 95% CI = 1.60–3.17). The difference between genders was negligible.

Conclusion  Our results support the equality of outcomes among men and women achieved by brief interventions for hazardous alcohol consumption in primary care settings.
Different measures of alcohol consumption and risk of coronary heart disease and all‐cause mortality: 11‐year follow‐up of the Whitehall II Cohort Study
Authors: Britton Annie , Marmot Michael
Published: December 2003

Aims  To investigate the relationship between three measures of alcohol consumption obtained simultaneously in a large cohort and the validated risk of coronary heart disease and all‐cause mortality during follow‐up.

Design  Prospective cohort study with median follow‐up of 11 years.

Setting  The Whitehall II Cohort Study: London‐based civil service.

Participants  A total of 10 308 (33% female) civil servants aged 35–55 years at baseline (1985–88).

Measurements  Self‐reported volume of alcohol consumed during past week, frequency of drinking over past year, usual amount consumed per drinking session.

Main outcome measures  Coronary heart disease and all‐cause mortality until 1999.

Findings  A U‐shaped relationship was found between volume of alcohol consumed per week and outcome. Compared to those who drank moderately (10–80 g alcohol per week), non‐drinkers and those drinking more than 248 g per week had approximately a twofold increased risk of mortality. The optimal frequency of drinking was between once or twice a week and daily, after adjustment for average volume consumed per week. Those drinking twice a day or more had an increased risk of mortality (male hazard ratio 2.44 95% CI 1.31–4.52) compared to those drinking once or twice a week. Drinking only once a month or only on special occasions had a 50% increased risk of mortality. The usual amount consumed per drinking session was not indicative of increased health risk in this cohort.

Conclusions  Epidemiological studies should collect information on frequency of drinking in addition to average volume consumed in order to inform sensible drinking advice.
‘You can’t go without a fag . . . you need it for your hash’—a qualitative exploration of smoking, cannabis and young people
Authors: Amos Amanda , Wiltshire Susan , Bostock Yvonne , Haw Sally , McNeill Ann
Published: December 2003

Aims  To examine the relationship between smoking tobacco and cannabis use among smokers in their mid‐to‐late teens.

Design and participants  Two qualitative studies in Scotland. One study used semistructured paired interviews involving 99 16–19‐year‐old smokers, the other comprised eight focus groups involving 46 15–16‐year‐old smokers.

Measurement  The interviews and focus groups explored the role and meaning of smoking in the participants’ lives, smoking histories and future cessation intentions and how these related to other aspects of their lives, particularly cannabis use.

Findings  Cannabis use was regarded as an important and enjoyable aspect of many of the participants’ lives. Importantly, cannabis use and cigarette smoking were linked inextricably. Several reported how smoking joints had been a ‘gateway’ to smoking cigarettes. While most wanted to quit smoking cigarettes, cannabis use reinforced their cigarette smoking and few wanted to stop using cannabis.

Conclusion  National studies need to be conducted to examine how widespread the problem identified is and tobacco control initiatives and smoking cessation treatment services need to consider urgently how to overcome the barrier that a desire on the part of young people to continue cannabis smoking poses to achieving a reduction in tobacco use.
Shape of the relapse curve and long‐term abstinence among untreated smokers
Authors: Hughes John R. , Keely Josue , Naud Shelly
Published: December 2003

Objective  To describe the relapse curve and rate of long‐term prolonged abstinence among smokers who try to quit without treatment.

Method  Systematic literature review.

Data sources  Cochrane Reviews, Dissertation Abstracts, Excerpt Medica, Medline, Psych Abstracts and US Center for Disease Control databases plus bibliographies of articles and requests of scientists.

Study selection  Prospective studies of self‐quitters or studies that included a no‐treatment control group.

Data extraction  Two reviewers independently extracted data in a non‐blind manner.

Data synthesis  The number of studies was too small and the data too heterogeneous for meta‐analysis or other statistical techniques.

Results  There is a paucity of studies reporting relapse curves of self‐quitters. The existing eight relapse curves from two studies of self‐quitters and five no‐treatment control groups indicate most relapse occurs in the first 8 days. These relapse curves were heterogeneous even when the final outcome was made similar. In terms of prolonged abstinence rates, a prior summary of 10 self‐quitting studies, two other studies of self‐quitters and three no‐treatment control groups indicate 3–5% of self‐quitters achieve prolonged abstinence for 6–12 month after a given quit attempt.

Conclusions  More reports of relapse curves of self‐quitters are needed. Smoking cessation interventions should focus on the first week of abstinence. Interventions that produce abstinence rates of 5–10% may be effective. Cessation studies should report relapse curves.
The efficacy of single‐session motivational interviewing in reducing drug consumption and perceptions of drug‐related risk and harm among young people: results from a multi‐site cluster randomized trial
Authors: McCambridge Jim , Strang John
Published: December 2003

Aim  To test whether a single session of motivational interviewing (discussing alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use) would lead successfully to reduction in use of these drugs or in perceptions of drug‐related risk and harm among young people.

Design  Cluster randomized trial, allocating 200 young people in the natural groups in which they were recruited to either motivational interviewing (n = 105) or non‐intervention education‐as‐usual control condition (n = 95).

Setting  Ten further education colleges across inner London.

Participants  Two hundred young people (age range 16–20 years) currently using illegal drugs, with whom contact was established through peers trained for the project.

Intervention  The intervention was adapted from the literature on motivational interviewing in the form of a 1‐hour single‐session face‐to‐face interview structured by a series of topics.

Measurements  Changes in self‐reported cigarette, alcohol, cannabis and other drug use and in a range of drug‐specific perceptions and other indicators of risk and harm. Measurement at recruitment and follow‐up interview 3 months later.

Findings  A good follow‐up rate (89.5%; 179 of 200) was achieved. In comparison to the control group, those randomized to motivational interviewing reduced their of use of cigarettes, alcohol and cannabis, mainly through moderation of ongoing drug use rather than cessation. Effect sizes were 0.37 (0.15–0.6), 0.34 (0.09–0.59) and 0.75 (0.45–1.0) for reductions in the use of cigarettes, alcohol and cannabis, respectively. For both alcohol and cannabis, the effect was greater among heavier users of these drugs and among heavier cigarette smokers. The reduced cannabis use effect was also greater among youth usually considered vulnerable or high‐risk according to other criteria. Change was also evident in various indicators of risk and harm, but not as widely as the changes in drug consumption.

Conclusions  This study provides the first substantial evidence of non‐treatment benefit to be derived among young people involved in illegal drug use in receipt of motivational interviewing. The targeting of multiple drug use in a generic fashion among young people has also been supported.
Exploration of adverse psychological symptoms in Yemeni khat users by the Symptoms Checklist‐90 (SCL‐90)
Authors: Numan Nabil
Published: December 2003

Aim  The present study was aimed at assessing associations between psychological symptoms and khat use in the Yemeni population.

Setting  The survey was performed in 2000/2001, in different zones including three urban and three rural areas.

Participants  The survey was carried out in 800 Yemeni adults (15–76), both male and female, representing mainly urban populations of students, state employees and housewives.

Design  A cross‐sectional survey was undertaken using face‐to‐face interviews and no preset selection criteria regarding profession, socio‐economic status, age or gender.

Measurement  The Symptoms Checklist‐90 (SCL‐90) was used containing 90 items, which cover nine scales of the following domains: somatization, depression, anxiety, phobia, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, obsessive‐compulsive, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, paranoia and psychoticism. Details of khat use and socio‐demographic data were also collected.

Findings  At least one life‐time episode of khat use was reported in 81.6% of men and 43.3% of women. Male users tended to use more frequently. The incidence of adverse psychological symptoms was not greater in khat users; in fact, there was a negative association between the incidence of phobic symptoms and khat use.

Conclusions  Khat use is very common in the Yemeni population, particularly men, but it is not associated with adverse psychological symptoms.
Factors associated with Ecstasy use in Turkish students
Authors: Çorapçıoğlu Aytül , Ögel Kültegin
Published: December 2003

Aims  The purpose of this study was to establish the factors associated with Ecstasy use in secondary school students in Turkey.

Design, setting and participants  This is a survey of a representative sample drawn from cities in different geographical regions in Turkey in 1998 and 2001. The questionnaire was administered to a total of 18 556 and 11 911 10th‐grade students in 1998 and 2001, respectively.

Measurements  The questionnaire administered in the study was adapted from the questionnaires used in ‘Monitoring the Future’ study in the United States and ESPAD (the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs). It included questions about demographic characteristics, family characteristics, school life, social contacts and use of substances.

Findings  While the percentage of those who used Ecstasy at least once in their life‐times was 2.65% in 1998, the figure reached 3.31% in 2001. Male gender, older age, use of alcohol, cannabis, heroin and cocaine, non‐medical use of psychotherapeutic drugs and participation in a meeting concerning the adverse effects of substance use were found to be significant variables predicting ‘ever use’ of Ecstasy in both years by logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions  Ecstasy use, while low in Turkey, appears to be on the increase and follows a pattern in terms of correlates that is similar to other illicit drugs. Whatever the causes behind the rise in Ecstasy use, creative, personalized and informative educational programmes should be conducted in all educational institutions to curb Ecstasy use.
Reduction of quantity smoked predicts future cessation among older smokers
Authors: Falba Tracy , Jofre‐Bonet Mireia , Busch Susan , Duchovny Noelia , Sindelar Jody
Published: December 2003

Aim  To examine whether smokers who reduce their quantity of cigarettes smoked between two periods are more or less likely to quit subsequently.

Study design  Data come from the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative survey of older Americans aged 51–61 in 1991 followed every 2 years from 1992 to 1998. The 2064 participants smoking at baseline and the first follow‐up comprise the main sample.

Measurements  Smoking cessation by 1996 is examined as the primary outcome. A secondary outcome is relapse by 1998. Spontaneous changes in smoking quantity between the first two waves make up the key predictor variables. Control variables include gender, age, education, race, marital status, alcohol use, psychiatric problems, acute or chronic health problems and smoking quantity.

Findings  Large (over 50%) and even moderate (25–50%) reductions in quantity smoked between 1992 and 1994 predict prospectively increased likelihood of cessation in 1996 compared to no change in quantity (OR 2.96, P < 0.001 and OR 1.61, P < 0.01, respectively). Additionally, those who reduced and then quit were somewhat less likely to relapse by 1998 than those who did not reduce in the 2 years prior to quitting.

Conclusions  Reducing successfully the quantity of cigarettes smoked appears to have a beneficial effect on future cessation likelihood, even after controlling for initial smoking level and other variables known to impact smoking cessation. These results indicate that the harm reduction strategy of reduced smoking warrants further study.
Successful treatment with a nicotine lozenge of smokers with prior failure in pharmacological therapy
Authors: Shiffman Saul , Dresler Carolyn M. , Rohay Jeffrey M.
Published: December 2003

Aims To assess the influence of unsuccessful past quit attempts using pharmacological treatment on smoking cessation when using a new nicotine lozenge.

Design A double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial.

Setting Fifteen sites in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Participants A total of 1818 smokers seeking smoking cessation treatment; 1145 had had previous pharmacological treatment with nicotine polacrilex lozenge.

Intervention Lozenge, 2 mg or 4 mg (or matched placebo); a higher dose was assigned to smokers who smoked their first cigarette of the day within 30 minutes, a sign of dependence. Smokers received minimal instruction and counseling.

Measurement Outcome was 28‐day, CO‐verified continuous abstinence at 6 weeks. Past use of medications was ascertained by self‐report.

Findings Lozenge was efficacious among smokers with prior pharmacotherapy as well as among those without such history. The effect of lozenge (versus placebo) was significantly greater among those with previous treatment experience, because previous treatment was associated with significantly poorer outcome on placebo, and active lozenge treatment corrected this imbalance. Lozenge efficacy was similar whether smokers had previously tried patch or acute forms of nicotine replacement therapy (gum, inhaler and spray), and also similar for past use of Zyban (bupriopion).

Conclusions Smokers with a history of past failure of pharmacological treatment have lower success rates without pharmacological treatment, but equally good outcomes with active lozenge treatment. Smokers who previously tried pharmacological treatments but resumed smoking should be encouraged to try quitting again with the new nicotine lozenge.
Temporal stability of pathological scratchcard gambling among adult scratchcard buyers two years later
Authors: DeFuentes‐Merillas Laura , Koeter Maarten W. J. , Schippers Gerard M. , Van Den Brink Wim
Published: December 2003

Aims  To estimate the 2‐year cumulative incidence of pathological scratchcard gambling (PSG) among a representative sample of high‐risk scratchcard buyers, to assess the 2‐year temporal stability of PSG and scratchcard‐related problems and to estimate the adjusted 1‐year prevalence for PSG taking into account the temporal dynamics of this diagnosis.

Design  A prospective study with two assessments was applied to a non‐proportional stratified random sample of 12 222 adult scratchcard buyers in the Netherlands. A cost‐effective design was used and only those scratchcard buyers (n = 201) who had already experienced some scratchcard‐related problems at initial assessment were followed‐up 2 years later.

Participants  Two independent cohorts of buyers with scratchcard‐related problems were followed‐up: a cohort of 173 potential problematic scratchcard gamblers (PPSG) at increased risk for PSG and a cohort of 28 pathological scratchcard gamblers. Incidence and prevalence estimates were calculated for the total sample of adult scratchcard buyers and for the Dutch adult population.

Findings  Of the PPSG group 6.72% (95% CI 2.30–8.90%) became addicted to scratchcards during the 2‐year period. The 2‐year cumulative incidence of PSG among Dutch adult scratchcard players was 0.24% (95% CI 0.16–0.34%). The stability of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 4th edition (DSM‐IV) diagnosis of PSG ranged from 11.1% to 42.9%, depending on whether or not those lost to follow‐up were considered to be cases of PSG. Taking into account the dynamics of this disorder, using the most conservative assumption, the adjusted 1‐year prevalence of PSG for the total sample of adult scratchcard buyers was 0.33% (95% CI 0.23–0.45%).

Conclusions  PSG proves to be a rare phenomenon among adult scratchcard buyers in the Netherlands. Both incidence and prevalence of the DSM‐IV diagnosis PSG were low. Stability of the DSM‐IV diagnosis PSG, DSM‐IV criteria and South Oaks Gambling Screening‐S (SOGS‐S) problems were low. Prevalence was stable over the time because incidence and recovery rates were very similar.
Mortality in a cohort of opiate and amphetamine users in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Bartu Anne , Freeman Nerelie C. , Gawthorne Geoff S. , Codde James P. , Holman C. D’Arcy J.
Published: December 2003

Aims  This study compares the hazard of death among opiate and amphetamine using clients who accessed drug treatment with individuals who had no specialist treatment contact between 1985 and 1998.

Design, setting, participants  This was a retrospective cohort study of 4280 drug‐using individuals (2887 opiate users, 1393 amphetamine users) admitted to Perth metropolitan hospitals or Perth psychiatric institutions between 1985 and 1998. Of these, 1469 attended Next Step Specialist Drug and Alcohol Services (928 received methadone and 541 attended counselling or support groups) and 2811 had no contact with this service.

Methods  Data from two drug treatment programmes were linked with hospital morbidity, psychiatric services and the mortality database using record linkage.

Findings  The results show that people who were currently in drug treatment had a lower hazard of death compared with non‐clients and those who had ceased treatment. Those who had ceased treatment more than 6 months ago had 7.0 times the hazard of all‐cause death and 8.4 times the hazard of drug‐cause death. Opiate users were at 1.4 times the hazard of all‐cause death and 2.4 times the hazard of drug‐cause death compared with amphetamine users. Males were at 1.79 times the hazard of all‐cause death and, unexpectedly, were found to be at 2.69 times the hazard of drug‐cause death compared with females.

Conclusions  Treatment protected clients from premature death compared with people who did not receive treatment and also those who ceased treatment. While amphetamine users had a lower risk of mortality compared with opiate users, the full extent of the relationship between amphetamine use and mortality needs to be examined further.
Changes in community characteristics of small mammals in rehabilitating coastal dune forests in northern KwaZulu/Natal
Authors: FERREIRA S. M. , AARDE R. J. VAN
Published: December 2003

Characteristics of small mammal communities in rehabilitating indigenous coastal dune forests of different ecological ages were investigated from June 1991 to May 1992. Capture‐recapture models were used to estimate population densities and emigration and immigration rates were determined from these. Small mammal community composition, the contribution of species richness and equitability to species diversity, changes in birth rate, death rate, ecological dominance and the probability of interspecific encounter were investigated. Small mammal communities were dominated byMastomys natalensisin ‘young’ rehabilitating stands whileSaccostomus campestrisdominated ‘old’ rehabilitating stands. The lowest species diversity was recorded in the ‘youngest’ rehabilitating stand, while the highest diversity was recorded in the second ‘oldest’ rehabilitating stand. It is concluded that small mammal community composition in rehabilitating stands of dune forests can be explained by species‐specific habitat preferences, movement from unmined areas and possible interactions between species. These results reflect positively on the success of habitat rehabilitation.

On a étudié entre juin 1991 et mai 1992 les caractéristiques des petites communautés animales dans des forêts indigènes de dunes côtières en voie de réhabilitation. On a utilisé la technique de capture‐recapture pour estimer la densité des populations et on en a déduit les taux d‘émigration et d'immigration. On a étudié la composition des communautés de petits mammifères, la contribution de la richesse en espèces et l’équitabilité de la diversité des espèces, les changements du taux de natalité, du taux de mortalité, la dominance écologique et la probabilité de rencontres interspécifiques. Les communautés de petits mammifères étaient dominées parMastomys natalensisdans les endroits de réhabilitation récente alors queSaccostomus campestrisdominaient les endroits de réhabilitation plus ancienne. On a relevé la diversité en espèces la plus basse dans les endroits “récents” et la plus grande diversité a l'endroit qui venait à la deuxième place par ordre d'ancienneté. On en conclut que la composition des communautés des petits mammifères aux endroits où les dunes forestières sont réhabilitées peut s'expliquer par les préférences spécifiques en matière d'habitat, les déplacements au départ de régions non exploitées et par des interactions possibles entre les espèces. Ces résultats reflètent positivement le succès de la réhabilitation de l'habitat.
New records of bats for Uganda and Burundi
Authors: STANLEY W. T. , PETERHANS J. C. KERBIS , KITYO R. M. , DAVENPORT L.
Published: December 2003

The collection of Myotis welwitschii and Pipistrellus kuhlii fuscatus in Uganda and Pipistrellus kuhlii fuscatus from Burundi is reported. These species were previously unknown from these countries. External and skull measurements are presented, as well as descriptions of pelage coloration and collecting locality and comments on distribution of the taxa.

Lors de récentes recherches sur la faune en Ouganda et au Burundi, on a récolté deux espèces de chauves‐souris qui n'avaient jamais été signalées dans ces deux pays. On a récolté un spécimen de Myotis welwitschii Gray sur le Ruwenzori en Ouganda et des spécimens de Pipistrellus kuhlii Kuhl sur le Ruwenzori et sur le mont Elgon, en Ouganda et au Pare National de Kibira, au Burundi. On présente des mesures corporelles et craniennes, ainsi que des descriptions de la couleur du pelage, de l'endroit exact de la récolte et des commentaires sur la distribution des taxons.

Le but premier de ces études était de récolter des données de base au sujet de la distribution et l'écologie des oiseaux et des petits mammifères à différentes altitudes dans les aires protégées et les zones avoisinantes. Ces informations sont essentielles pour la conception des plans de gestion des ces régions et pour l'évaluation de l'efficacité des efforts de conservation actuels et futurs.
Thermobiology of Hemilepistus veaumuri (Audouin & Savigny, 1826) (Isopoda, Oniscidea) inhabiting Benghazi, Libya
Authors: NAIR G. A. , BHUYAN K. C.
Published: December 2003

The transpiration rates of the desert isopod Hemilepistus reaumuri (Audouin and Savigny, 1826), exposed to eight different temperatures ranging from 10 to 45°C for 1 h, showed that the water loss from the body surface was higher from 35 to 45°C as compared with the lower temperatures. Higher rates of transpiration were discernible in animals previously acclimatized to 35°C or in moist conditions than in those kept at 15 or 25°C or in dry conditions. Acclimatization of the animals to 10, 25 or 35°C had a marked effect on their behaviour and activity when later exposed to rising temperatures. Exposure to 10 or 25°C for 15 days affected the feeding and assimilation rates and moisture contents, with higher temperatures increasing these rates significantly.

Le taux de transpiration de l'isopode du désert Hemilepistus reaumuri (Audouin et Savigny, 1826), confrontéà huit températures différentes allant de 10°à 45°C pendant l'heure, a montré que la perte d'eau par la surface du corps était plus importante de 35°C à 45°C on comparaison avec des températures plus basses. On pouvait discerner un taux de transpiration plus éléve chez des animaux acclimatés antérieurement à 35°C ou à des conditions humides que chez ceux qui avaient été gardés à 15°C ou 25°C ou dans des conditions sèches. L'acclimatation des animaux à 10°, 25°C ou 35°C avait un effet marqué sur leur comportement et leur activité lorsqu'ils étaient ensuite exposés à des températures croissantes. L'exposition à des températures de 10° ou de 25°C pendant quinze jours affectait les taux d'alimentation et d'assimilation et le contenu en eau, les températures plus hautes faisant augmenter ces taux significativement.
Shoot characteristics of Acacia tortilis (Forsk.) in wildlife and rangeland habitats of Botswana
Authors: DANGERFIELD J. M. , PERKINS J. S. , KAUNDA S. K.
Published: December 2003

Length, branch production, orientation, spinescence and biomass were measured for current shoots of Acacia tortilis shrubs in a range of habitats in Botswana. All shoot characteristics varied between individuals and between habitats with longer, less spinescent shoots produced in the habitat recently protected from wildlife. Biomass allocated to woody material increased with shoot length at the expense of leaf mass, whilst investment in straight prickles was as much as 6% of shoot dry mass. Shoot length had significant effects on total current shoot mass per shrub which was greatest in the recently protected area but the mean number of shoots per shrub also varied between habitats. Age and history of disturbance, including herbivory, appear to be important determinants of morphology and growth pattern of individual shrubs. Fitness of A. tortilis individuals and the consequence of flexibility in growth responses for vegetation structure and community organization are discussed.

On a mesuré la longueur, la production de branches, l'orientation, l'épinosité et la biomasse des pousses récentes des arbustes d'Acacia tortilis dans différents habitats du Botswana. Toutes les caractéristiques des pousses variaient selon les individus et les habitats, avec des pousses plus longues et moins épineuses dans l'habitat protégé depuis peu contre la faune. La biomasse de la matière ligneuse augmentait avec la longueur des pousses au détriment de la biomasse des feuilles, tandis que l'investissement dans les raides épines pouvait atteindre 6% du poids sec des pousses. La longueur des pousses avait un impact significatif sur la masse totale des pousses par arbuste, qui était la plus élevée dans la zone récemment protégée, mais le nombre moyen de pousses par arbuste variait aussi selon l'habitat. L'âge et le taux de dérangement, comme par exemple par les herbivores, semblent être des facteurs déterminants dans la morphologie et la croissance de chaque arbuste. La santé de chaque Acacia tortilis et la conséquence de la flexibilité des réponses de croissance sur la structure de la végétation et l'organisation des communautés sont discutées.
Recovery of woody vegetation in Tsavo National Park, Kenya, 1970‐94
Authors: LEUTHOLD W.
Published: December 2003

Two series of photographs taken at fixed locations in 1970 and 1994 document the development of woody vegetation under changing ecological conditions in Tsavo National Park, Kenya, over nearly 25 years. The original vegetation was altered considerably through the combined influences of elephants and fire in the 1960s and 1970s. Meanwhile, the elephant population has decreased substantially as a result of large‐scale poaching for ivory during the 1980s. Presumably as a result, trees and shrubs have reappeared in large numbers at the majority of locations sampled. The influence of fire in impeding regeneration of woody vegetation has also been documented locally.

Deux séries de photographies prises à des endroits précis en 1970 et en 1994 illustrent l'évolution de la végétation ligneuse dans des conditions écologiques en mutation au Pare National de Tsavo, au Kenya, en près de vingt‐cinq ans. La végétation originale était très abîmée à cause de l'influence cumulée des éléphants et des feux dans les années ′60 et ′70. Cependant, la population des éléphants a été fortement réduite par le braconnage pour l'ivoire qui a sévi sur une grande échelle pendant les années ′80. Conséquence probable, les arbres et les buissons sont réapparus en grand nombre à la plupart des endroits de prises de vue. Localement, on a aussi pu constater l'influence des feux qui empéchent la régénération de la végétation ligneuse.
The Nyl River floodplain, South Africa, as a functional unit of the landscape: A review of current information
Authors: HIGGINS S. I. , COETZEE M. A. S. , MARNEWECK G. C. , ROGERS K. H.
Published: December 2003

The Nyl River floodplain is one of southern Africa's conservation, eco‐tourism and agricultural assets. Its location in a water‐stressed region means that the biota of the Nyl River floodplain must compete for water resources with other water users. In order to compete, however, the system must clearly articulate its dependence on water and its economic and conservation value. A review of the system's structure and a statement of our present understanding of how the system functions is provided. This information is used to qualitatively assess the system's dependence on run‐off from its catchment areas. Negative impacts on the system's biota, particularly the aquatic plants and waterbirds, are predicted if run‐off is reduced. It is concluded, however, that a quantitative model of the system's functioning is required for the resolution of water resource disputes and for the effective management of the system. It is anticipated that interdisciplinary studies will be required to provide this quantitative model of the Nyl River floodplain and of similar systems.

La plaine inondable de la rivière Nyl est un des atouts de la conservation, de l'écotourisme et de l'agriculture sudafricains. Sa situation dans une région si pauvre en eau signifie que les communautés vivantes de la plaine inondable de la rivière Nyl sont en compétition pour les ressources en eau avec les autres utilisateurs d'eau. Pour assurer cette compétition, le bassin hydrographique doit clairement articuler sa dépendance vis à vis de l'eau, sa valeur économique et son importance pour la conservation. Nous présentons ici une revue de la structure du système ainsi que l'état de nos connaissances sur le fontionnement de ce système. Cette information est utilisée pour évaluer qualitativement la dépendance du bassin vis à vis de l'écoulement à partir de ses zones de captage. Si le captage est diminué, on prévoit des effets négatifs sur les communautés vivantes du bassin, spécialement sur les plantes aquatiques et les oiseaux d'eau. On conclut cependant qu'il faut établir un modèle quantitatif du fonctionnement du bassin pour résoudre les disputes au sujet de l'eau et pour gérer efficacement le bassin hydrographique. On prévoit que des recherches interdisciplinaires seront nécessaires pour dresser ce modèle quantitatif de la plaine inondable de la rivière Nyl et de bassins hydrographiques comparables.
Food habits of guenons (Cercopithecus spp.) in Afro‐montane forest
Authors: BEESON M. , TAME S. , KEEMING E. , LEA S. E. G.
Published: December 2003

The diet and feeding behaviour of Cercopithecus preussi in montane forest on Kilum Mountain, Cameroon, was studied over a period of 15 months and compared with that of Cercopithecus mitis observed over a similar period in montane forest on the Zomba Plateau, Malawi. Cercopithecus preussi was found to eat fruit with a similar frequency to C. mitis, but to eat mature tree leaves less often. When the frequency of total green plant intake was compared, however, C. preussi ate this category more often than C. mitis. This may reflect the raised foliar protein levels at Kilum, a longer rainy season increasing the availability of preferred food items and the greater terrestriality of C. preussi, bringing it into contact with more herb leaf blades. Both C. preussi and C. mitis eat the blades of mature tree leaves relatively rarely, preferring leaf shoots (C. preussi) and leaf petioles (C. mitis).

On a étudié pendant quinze mois le régime et le comportement alimentaire de Cercopithecus preussi dans la forêt de montagne du Mont Kilum, au Cameroun, et on les a comparés avec ceux de Cercopithecus mitis observé pendant une période comparable dans une forêt de montagne du Plateau de Zomba, au Malawi. On a découvert que Cercopithecus preussi mangeait des fruits aussi fréquemment que C. mitis, mais qu'il mangeait moins souvent des feuilles d'arbres matures. Lorsqu'on a comparé l'absorption totale de plantes vertes cependant, C. preussi en mangeait plus que C. mitis. Ceci peut refléter un taux de protéines plus élevé dans les feuilles à Kilum, une saison des pluies plus longue augmentant la disponibilité de la nourriture préférée, et le fait que C. preussi est plus terrestre, ce qui le met plus en contact avec les feuilles d'herbes. C preussi et C mitis mangent relativement rarement les feuilles matures des arbes, preferant les jeunes pousses de feuilles (C. preussi) et les petioles des feuilles (C mitis).
Observations on the status and distribution of the West African manatee in Cameroon
Authors: GRIGIONE M. M.
Published: December 2003

During June‐August 1989, a survey of manatee distribution and status in Cameroon was undertaken by conducting land and boat surveys of four regions: Korup, Mamfe, Edea, and Kribi. Manatee density, based on frequency of reported sightings, appears to be high in certain areas of Korup, Mamfe, and Edea. Manatee exploitation does not appear to be common. The reasons for this, however, are due to human attitudes and perceptions towards the manatee rather than laws protecting the manatee. This study underscores the importance of understanding human attitudes associated with a particular species if we are to develop effective conservation strategies for species survival.

De juin à août 1989, on a mené une étude sur la distribution et le statut des lamantins au Cameroun, en parcourant sur terre et par bateau quatre régions: Korup, Mamfe, Edea et Kribi. La densité des lamantins, basée sur la fréquence des observations rapportées, semble élévee dans certaines régions de Korup, Mamfe et Edea. L'exploitation des lamantins ne semble pas être commune. Les raisons en sont cependant dues à l'attitude et à la fa¸on des hommes de voir les lamantins plutôt qu'à des lois qui les protégeraient. Cette étude souliqne l'importance d'une bonne compréhension de l'attitude des hommes vis‐à‐vis d'une espece particulière si nous souhaitons mettre au point une stratégie de conservation efficace pour la survie de l'espèce.
Structure and diversity comparison of three dry forests at Nakuru National Park, Kenya
Authors: MUTANGAH J. G. , AGNEW A. D. Q.
Published: December 2003

Three types of dry forest, dominated by either Acacia xanthophloea, Euphorbia candelabrum or Olea europaea spp. africana, at Lake Nakuru National Park were sampled using a fixed radius point‐centred quarter method. The density estimates from these data should be more accurate than those derived from normal point‐centred quarter measures. By comparing species area curves erected probabilistically using the density estimate with those from a random (Monte Carlo) sampling of the frequency data set we were able to confirm the validity of our field sampling and density estimating procedure. We found that overall species' diversity and equitability indices gave differences between the three forest types as sampled which were the inverse of the trends demonstrated by species area curves, and suggest that the indices reflect a diversity while the species area curves have to do with P diversity or habitat heterogeneity. We use these results to argue that the structure of evergreen dry woodland merits further study.

Trois types de forets sèches, dominées par Acacia xanthophloea, Euphorbia candelabrum ou Olea europaea spp. africana, ont étééchantillonnées au Pare National du Lac Nakuru en utilisant une methode de quartier à rayon fixe, centré sur un point. Les estimations de densité provenant de ces données devraient être plus précises que celles dérivées des mesures normales de quartier centré sur un point. En comparant les zones de courbes par espèce projetées d'après un calcul de probabilité utilisant les estimations de densité, avec celles obtenues d'un échantillonnage au hasard (Monte Carlo) des données de fréquence, nous avons pu confirmer la validité de notre échantillonnage de terrain et de la procédure d'estimation des densités. Nous avons trouvé que la diversité générale des espèces et les index d'équitabilité donnaient des différences entre les trois types de forêts tels qu'on les avait échantillonnés, qui allaient à l'inverse des tendances démontrées par les zones de courbes par espèces et suggere que les indices reflètent une diversitéα alors que les zones de courbes par espèces reflétent une diversitéβ ou une hétérogénéité d'habitat. Nous utilisons ces résultats pour justifier le fait que la structure des foréts sèches sempervirentes mérite une recherche plus approfondie.
Recruitment and survival of native annual Trifolium species in the highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: DAURO D. , MOHAMED‐SALEEM M. A. , GINTZBURGER G.
Published: December 2003

Germination and survival of indigenous annual Trifolium species were studied. Seedlings naturally emerging in the field and from sown seeds in pots were regularly counted and uprooted, and survival was studied by monitoring colour‐coded seedlings. Differences in recruitment of Trifolium species were strongly related to the rainfall pattern. In the fallow (crop) lands, no seedling survived the dry season between the short and main rainy periods during the year, while in the natural pasture, 8% of the seedlings survived into the main growing (rainy) season. Occasional rains occurring in the dry period (between the two rainy periods) also induced successions of germination and seedlings death, and therefore depleted the soft seed reserve in the soil by the beginning of the main growing season. As temperature fluctuations were minimal during the main rainy season, the rate of seed softening was low, affecting new germinations. This had a significant impact on the quality of the natural pastures on which livestock in the highlands are dependent.
Habitat preferences and biomasses of small mammals in Swaziland
Authors: MONADJEM A.
Published: December 2003

This paper describes the distribution and abundance of small mammals in Swaziland in relation to quantified habitat features. Eighteen habitat sites were sampled at seven different locations in all four geographical regions of Swaziland. Small mammal diversity (as described by the Shannon diversity index) was positively correlated with vegetation density. A total of twelve species of rodents and seven species of shrews were captured; however, only six species were caught at more than three sites. Small mammal biomasses and densities were highest at the highveld and middleveld sites. Tall grassland at all elevations supported a high diversity of small mammals. Highveld montane forest supported a high biomass and diversity of species, while no species were captured in moist forest in the Lubombo mountains.
Climatic and biogeographical associations of southern African dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae s. str.)
Authors: DAVIS ADRIAN
Published: December 2003

Climatic and biogeographical associations of southern African dung beetles (Scarabaeinae, Coprinae) were analysed from a collection amassed between 1971 and 1986. Endemism to Africa south of 15°S was much greater in southwesterly climates (winter rainfall, bimodal spring/autumn rainfall, arid late summer rainfall) than to the north‐east in the moist, mid‐summer rainfall region. Major biogeographical groups centred to the south‐west comprised predominantly southern African endemics, Western/Eastern Cape coast, Karoo, Karoo/Namib, northern Namibia and the south‐western Kalahari. Biogeographical groups centred on the south‐eastern highlands and the subtropical east coast (mid‐summer rainfall) also comprised predominantly southern African endemics. All other major groups centred to the north‐east in the mid‐summer rainfall region comprised predominantly species with widespread tropical biogeographical affiliations, pan‐southern Africa but centred in the east, pan‐mid‐summer rainfall region, eastern mid‐summer rainfall region, tropical east Zimbabwe/central Moçambique, subtropical/tropical game reserves (non‐ruminant dung specialists). There were cross‐climatic differences in taxonomic composition of the fauna. Within the winter rainfall region, percentage species composition of Scarabaeinae was greater whereas that of the coprine tribe, Onthophagini, was lower than within the other three climatic regions. Percentage species richness of most other tribes of Coprinae differed little between most climates but that of Scarabaeinae declined from west to east (Canthonini, Scarabaeini), east to west (Sisyphini) or to either side of the late summer rainfall region (Gymnopleurini).
Dung pellets used to identify the distribution and density of dik‐dik
Authors: KOMERS PETR , BROTHERTON PETER
Published: December 2003

Estimates of the population density of elusive animals based on counts of dung deposits are often inaccurate. We report a refinement of this technique for territorial ungulates which exploits variation in pellet characteristics between individuals. In a study of Kirk's dik‐dik (Madoqua kirki) we found that pellet size and shape were less variable within individuals than between individuals. These findings were used to census a Kenyan population entirely on the basis of uniquely identifiable pellet groups, without any prior knowledge of the identity and location of individuals. The estimates were later compared with the results of an extensive capture and radio telemetry study. Population density estimated by the pellet‐matching method and by telemetry differed by less than 5%. In addition, only one border of 18 territories was incorrectly assigned, and only one territory was not detected. This represents a significant improvement in accuracy over indiscriminate dung counting techniques. We suggest that this method may also provide an accurate and non‐intrusive way of estimating population density in other solitary ungulates.
Rainfall and the population dynamics of elephant dung‐piles in the forests of southern Ghana
Authors: BARNES R. F. W. , ASAMOAH‐BOATENG B. , NAADA MAJAM J. , AGYEI‐OHEMENG J.
Published: December 2003

Decaying dung‐piles were observed at three sites in the lowland forests of southern Ghana. Time to disappearance was inversely related to rainfall in the month of deposition. The monthly survival of each age‐class decreased with age and was inversely proportional to rainfall in the month of deposition. A simulation revealed that if elephant numbers and defaecation rates are constant, then dung density in a given month will be governed by rainfall in the two preceding months. Changes in annual rainfall and its monthly distribution in southern Ghana mean that dung‐pile densities will vary from one month to the next, and between the same months in different years, even if elephant numbers are constant. Thus dung counters must take rainfall into account. A new method of censusing elephants in Ghana is presented, and suggestions are made for improving elephant counts in central African forests.
Lion density and population structure in the Selous Game Reserve: evaluation of hunting quotas and offtake
Authors: CREEL SCOTT , CREEL NANCY MARUSHA
Published: December 2003

In 1992, tourist hunting in the Selous Game Reserve generated 1.28 million dollars for the Tanzanian government, of which 0·96 million dollars were returned to wildlife conservation. Lions (Panthera leo) are one of three critical species for tourist hunting, consistently generating 12%–13% of hunting revenue from 1988 to 1992. Because of their ecological and economic importance (and intrinsic value), it is important that lion quotas be set so that offtake is sustainable. The population density of lions in Selous ranges from 0·08 to 0·13 adults km−2, comparable to unhunted ecosystems. The adult sex ratio (36–41% male) and the ratio of cubs to adults (29% cubs) are similar to those of unhunted populations. The ratio of lions to hyaenas is lower in heavily hunted areas (0·17 lions/hyena) than in unhunted areas (0·43 lions/hyena). Hunting levels between 1989 and 1994 took 2·7–4·3% of adult males annually, which is sustainable. The current quota is 10–16% of the adult male population, which exceeds natural mortality rates for male lions. To remain stable if the quota was filled, the population would have to compensate via increased fecundity, increased juvenile survival, or an altered sex‐ratio. Compensation occurs in Selous by producing (or raising) more male than female cubs (66–81% of juveniles are male). Only 28% of the Selous quota was filled in 1992. The percentage of quota filled (both in Selous and nationwide) has dropped since 1988 as quotas have increased. The current intensity of lion hunting in Selous is sustainable, but the quota cannot be filled sustainably.
Prey diversity and selectivity of the African fish eagle: data from a roost in northern Kenya
Authors: STEWART KATHLYN , MATTHIESEN DIANA , LEBLANC LEOLA , WEST JOLEE
Published: December 2003

A total of 1872 bones from a fish eagle roost at Lake Turkana, Kenya was identified and analysed to provide data on fish eagle prey and diet. The approach of this study complements field observation studies in that it provides a long‐term analysis and quantification of the diet, rather than short qualitative observations. The study found that, at least where fish is relatively abundant, fish eagles are both selective and opportunistic: selective in taking preferred fish in much greater proportions than natural availability, and also in avoiding unwanted fish regardless of abundance, but opportunistic in taking certain other species in proportion to their availability. They also show considerable selection in size and habitat preferences of prey. Non‐fish prey forms a considerable proportion of the diet, and probably represents both opportunistic hunting, possibly when conditions for fishing are poor, and killing of other predators robbing fish eagle nests.

As well as describing and quantifying the fish eagle diet at Lake Turkana, data from this study suggest that further study is needed to quantify the impact of fish eagle predation on Clarias lazera, a rare, but valuable species to the Lake Turkana fishery. The study of bird roost prey remains also provides baseline data for studies of fossil microfaunal accumulations. Scatters of bones under fish eagle roosts are common in eastern Africa, and undoubtedly contribute to many of the fossil bone accumulations recovered. One of us (DM) has noted that the taxonomic and skeletal composition of the Koobi Fora roost bears a great resemblance to some of the clusters she is analysing from Olduvai Gorge. Further similar studies will provide additional data on bird roost accumulations.