bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Regional and Geomorphic Reference for Quantities and Volumes of Instream Wood in Unmanaged Forested Basins of Washington State
Authors: Fox Martin , Bolton Susan
Published: March 2007

We collected field data on instream wood quantities and volumes from 150 stream segments draining unmanaged basins within Washington State to develop reference conditions for restoration and management. The wood loads in these streams provide a reference for management since it is assumed that they incorporate the range of conditions to which salmonids and other species have adapted. We also used these data to evaluate existing standards for large wood in streams. Large wood is an important component of salmonid habitat, and stream channel assessments and restoration and enhancement efforts often associate habitat quality for salmon Oncorhynchus spp. with the quantity and volume of woody debris; however, the wood targets currently used to assist resource managers typically do not account for variations in quantity or volume owing to differences in geomorphology, forest zones, or disturbance regimes. For restoring the appropriate range of conditions in salmon habitat, we offer a percentile wood distribution of natural and unmanaged wood-loading ranges based on regional and geomorphic variation for the purpose of reestablishing central tendencies. We recommend that streams in a degraded state (e.g., below the 25th percentile) be managed for an interim target at or above the 75th percentile until the basin-scale wood loads achieve these central tendencies. Based on the sample distribution, these reference conditions are applicable to streams with bank-full widths between 1 and 100 m, gradients between 0.1% and 47%, elevations between 91 and 1,906 m, drainage areas between 0.4 and 325 km2, glacial and rain- or snow-dominated origins, forest types common to the Pacific Northwest, and several other distinguishing physical and regional classifications.
Natural Landscape and Stream Segment Attributes Influencing the Distribution and Relative Abundance of Riverine Smallmouth Bass in Missouri
Authors: Brewer Shannon K. , Rabeni Charles F. , Sowa Scott P. , Annis Gust
Published: March 2007

Protecting and restoring fish populations on a regional basis are most effective if the multiscale factors responsible for the relative quality of a fishery are known. We spatially linked Missouri's statewide historical fish collections to environmental features in a geographic information system, which was used as a basis for modeling the importance of landscape and stream segment features in supporting a population of smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu. Decision tree analyses were used to develop probability-based models to predict statewide occurrence and within-range relative abundances. We were able to identify the range of smallmouth bass throughout Missouri and the probability of occurrence within that range by using a few broad landscape variables: the percentage of coarse-textured soils in the watershed, watershed relief, and the percentage of soils with low permeability in the watershed. The within-range relative abundance model included both landscape and stream segment variables. As with the statewide probability of occurrence model, soil permeability was particularly significant. The predicted relative abundance of smallmouth bass in stream segments containing low percentages of permeable soils was further influenced by channel gradient, stream size, spring-flow volume, and local slope. Assessment of model accuracy with an independent data set showed good concordance. A conceptual framework involving naturally occurring factors that affect smallmouth bass potential is presented as a comparative model for assessing transferability to other geographic areas and for studying potential land use and biotic effects. We also identify the benefits, caveats, and data requirements necessary to improve predictions and promote ecological understanding.
The Prevalence of Apraxia Characteristics in Patients with Velocardiofacial Syndrome as Compared with Other Cleft Populations
Authors: Kummer Ann W. , Lee Linda , Stutz Lindsay Schaadt , Maroney Adam , Brandt Jennifer Weidenbach
Published: March 2007

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to assess the oral-motor function of children with a history of cleft lip and palate, cleft palate only, velocardiofacial syndrome, and children with normal oral structures to determine if children with velocardiofacial syndrome have more apraxia characteristics than the other populations have.

Design:

The Apraxia Profile (Hickman, 1997) was administered to all participants in a prospective study.

Setting:

The investigation was conducted at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Participants:

In this study, 10 children with cleft lip and palate, 10 with cleft palate only, 7 with velocardiofacial syndrome, and 47 with normal structures were tested.

Results:

This study revealed that when compared with children with normal structures, children with cleft lip and palate did not demonstrate significant apraxia characteristics, children with cleft palate only demonstrated some apraxia characteristics, and children with velocardiofacial syndrome demonstrated the most apraxia characteristics.

Conclusions:

There appears to be a high prevalence of apraxia characteristics in the speech of patients with velocardiofacial syndrome. This information has implications for the type of treatment recommended. Further investigation is warranted with a larger patient population and a focus on the association of abnormal brain structure with apraxia in this population.
Drug Treatment during Pregnancy and Isolated Orofacial Clefts in Hungary
Authors: Puhó Erzsébet H. , Szunyogh Melinda , Métneki Júlia , Czeizel Andrew E.
Published: March 2007

Objective:

To evaluate the possible association between all kinds of drug treatments during pregnancy and isolated cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) and posterior cleft palate (PCP) in the offspring.

Setting:

The dataset of the large population-based Hungarian Case-Control Surveillance of Congenital Abnormalities, 1980–1996, was evaluated.

Participants:

One thousand three hundred seventy-four cases with isolated CL/P and 601 with PCP, plus 38,151 population controls (without birth defects) and 20,868 malformed controls with other defects.

Intervention:

In this observation case-control study the data collection was based on prospective medical records particularly prenatal logbook, retrospective maternal data via a self-reported questionnaire, and home visits of nonresponding mothers.

Main outcome measures:

Isolated CL/P and PCP associated with drug treatments during pregnancy.

Results:

An increased risk for isolated CL/P was found in cases born to mothers treated with amoxicillin, phenytoin, oxprenolol, and thiethylperazine during the second and third month of pregnancy, i.e., the critical period of isolated CL/P. Risk of isolated PCP was increased in mothers with oxytetracycline and carbamazepine treatment during the third and fourth month of pregnancy, i.e., the critical period of PCP.

Conclusions:

This study confirmed the orofacial cleft (OFC) inducing effect of phenytoin, carbamazepine, oxytetracycline, and thiethylperazine and suggested a possible association between OFCs and oxprenolol and amoxicillin. However, drugs may have only a limited role in the origin of isolated OFCs.
The Relationship between Orofacial Clefts and Material Deprivation in Wales
Authors: Durning P. , Chestnutt I. G. , Morgan M. Z. , Lester N.J.
Published: March 2007

Objective:

This study investigated the relationship between material deprivation and the incidence of orofacial clefts (OFC) in South, West, and Central Wales, U.K.

Design and Setting:

The South, West, and Central Wales Orofacial-Cleft Register served as the primary data source for the study. Data on all children born with an orofacial cleft between 1982 and 2003 were geocoded to one of 844 geographic wards. National census data, similarly geocoded, served as the population denominator. Townsend's index of material deprivation was used to assign wards to one of seven levels of deprivation. This permitted investigation of the association of orofacial clefts with material deprivation.

Results:

Between 1982 and 2003, there were 831 babies born with an orofacial cleft, equating to 109 clefts per 100,000 live births. The incidence of orofacial clefts ranged from 82 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval [C.I.] 64 to 102 per 100,000) in babies born to mothers residing in the least deprived areas to 127 per 100,000 (95% C.I., 112 to 144 per 100,000) in those living in the most deprived areas, a significant linear trend being apparent (p < .001). A statistically significant risk of 1.55 (95% C.I., 1.18 to 2.04) for orofacial clefts was apparent between most and least deprived septiles of deprivation.

Conclusions:

This study provides further evidence of an association between material deprivation and orofacial clefts. Further work is required to elicit the degree to which potential risk factors contribute to this association and to determine how deprivation predisposes to orofacial clefts.
Who Needs the Surgical Headlight?
Authors: Okoro Stanley A. , Patel Tarak H. , Wang Peter T. H.
Published: March 2007

Objective:

The use of surgical headlights may lead to awkward posture and limit the mobility and visibility of the operating team. Despite the vast availability of fiber-optic instruments, many surgeons continue to use the surgical headlight, which may be harmful to their health and career. We report the use of the Lumitex LightMat surgical illuminator instead of the conventional surgical headlight in cleft palate surgery.

Methods:

The LightMat is a disposable single-use device that is bright, flexible, and malleable and attaches easily to most retractors. Twenty cleft palate and five pharyngeal flaps cases were performed in which the LightMat was attached to the Dingman mouth retractor with biocompatible two-sided adhesive tapes.

Results:

The LightMat was successfully used in all 25 cases. No cases required the surgeon to put on additional lighting such as a headlight. In addition, no cases required the LightMat surgical illuminator to be replaced.

Conclusion:

The LightMat provides excellent surgical light for cleft palate surgery and pharyngeal procedures. It affords the surgeon several advantages: it provides a cool operative light, flexibility in surgical position, and improved visibility and mobility; the surgeon avoids the delay in obtaining an appropriate working headlight; and, more importantly, it may prevent postural problems that could lead to spinal sprain and disability.
Relation Between Neighborhood Median Housing Value and Hypertension Risk Among Black Women in the United States
Authors: Cozier Yvette C. , Palmer Julie R. , Horton Nicholas J. , Fredman Lisa , Wise Lauren A. , Rosenberg Lynn
Published: March 2007

Objectives. We examined the relation between median housing value and hypertension risk among US Black women.

Methods. We gathered data from the Black Women’s Health Study, a prospective follow-up of 59000 Black women aged 21 to 69 years in 1995. Median housing value from US census data was used to measure neighborhood socioeconomic status. Cases of hypertension were identified through postal questionnaires mailed in 1997, 1999, and 2001. Clustered survival regression models were used to estimate incidence rate ratios.

Results. During 180294 person-years of observation, 3780 cases of hypertension were reported. A significant inverse, graded association was found between median housing value and hypertension. The incidence rate ratio for women living in low median housing value neighborhoods relative to high was 1.29 (95% confidence interval=1.14, 1.45) after adjustment for individual risk factors. The association was evident even at higher individual levels of income and education.

Conclusions. Median housing value is inversely associated with hypertension in Black women, independent of individual risk factors. Lowering hypertension risk in Black women will require a greater understanding of the underlying social inequalities that adversely affect health.
Small-Area Estimation of Health Insurance Coverage for California Legislative Districts
Authors: Yu Hongjian , Meng Ying-Ying , Mendez-Luck Carolyn A. , Jhawar Mona , Wallace Steven P.
Published: March 2007

Objectives. To aid state and local policymakers, program planners, and community advocates, we created estimates of the percentage of the population lacking health insurance in small geographic areas of California.

Methods.Finally, calibration ensured the consistency and stability of the estimates when they were aggregated.

Results. Health insurance coverage among nonelderly persons varied widely across assembly districts, from 10% to 44%. The utility of local-level estimates was most apparent when the variations in subcounty uninsured rates in Los Angeles County (19%–44%) were examined.

Conclusions. Stable and useful estimates of health insurance rates for small areas such as legislative districts can be created through use of multiple sources of publicly available data.
Integrating Public Health Policy, Practice, Evaluation, Surveillance, and Research: The School Health Action Planning and Evaluation System
Authors: Cameron Roy , Manske Stephen , Brown K. Stephen , Jolin Mari Alice , Murnaghan Donna , Lovato Chris
Published: March 2007

The Canadian Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute of Canada have charged their Centre for Behavioral Research and Program Evaluation with contributing to the development of the country’s systemic capacity to link research, policy, and practice related to population-level interventions. Local data collection and feedback systems are integral to this capacity. Canada’s School Health Action Planning and Evaluation System (SHAPES) allows data to be collected from all of a school’s students, and these data are used to produce computer-generated school “health profiles.”

SHAPES is being used for intervention planning, evaluation, surveillance, and research across Canada. Strong demand and multipartner investment suggest that SHAPES is adding value in all of these domains. Such systems can contribute substantially to evidence-informed public health practice, public engagement, participatory action research, and relevant, timely population intervention research.
Prevalence of Obesity and Its Metabolic Correlates Among the Circumpolar Inuit in 3 Countries
Authors: Young T. Kue , Bjerregaard Peter , Dewailly Eric , Risica Patricia M. , Jørgensen Marit E. , Ebbesson Sven E. O.
Published: March 2007

Objectives. We investigated the prevalence of obesity and the metabolic correlates of different levels of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference among the Inuit in 3 countries.

Methods. Data from 4 surveys of Inuit in Canada, Greenland, and Alaska conducted during 1990–2001 were pooled, with a total sample size of 2545 participants. These data were compared with data from a Canadian population of predominantly European origin.

Results. Using the World Health Organization criteria for overweight and obesity, we found that the crude prevalence of overweight among Inuit men and women was 36.6% and 32.5%, respectively, and obesity was 15.8% and 25.5%, respectively. Inuit prevalences were similar to those of the highly developed countries of Europe and North America. As levels of obesity increased, as measured by BMI or waist circumference, the mean values of various metabolic indicators—lipid, glucose, and insulin levels and blood pressure—also increased. However, at each level of BMI or waist circumference, the Inuit had lower blood pressure and lipid levels than did Euro-Canadians.

Conclusions. Our data indicate that universal criteria for obesity may not reflect the same degree of metabolic risk for populations such as the Inuit and suggest that ethnic-specific criteria are needed.
The Effect of School on Overweight in Childhood: Gain in Body Mass Index During the School Year and During Summer Vacation
Authors: von Hippel Paul T. , Powell Brian , Downey Douglas B. , Rowland Nicholas J.
Published: March 2007

Objectives. To determine whether school or nonschool environments contribute more to childhood overweight, we compared children’s gains in body mass index (BMI) when school is in session (during the kindergarten and first-grade school years) with their gains in BMI when school is out (during summer vacation).

Methods. The BMIs of 5380 children in 310 schools were measured as part of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Cohort. We used these measurements to estimate BMI gain rates during kindergarten, summer, and first grade.

Results. Growth in BMI was typically faster and more variable during summer vacation than during the kindergarten and first-grade school years. The difference between school and summer gain rates was especially large for 3 at-risk subgroups: Black children, Hispanic children, and children who were already overweight at the beginning of kindergarten.

Conclusions. Although a school’s diet and exercise policies may be less than ideal, it appears that early school environments contribute less to overweight than do nonschool environments.
The Effectiveness of Vaccine Day and Educational Interventions on Influenza Vaccine Coverage Among Health Care Workers at Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Kimura Akiko C. , Nguyen Christine N. , Higa Jeffrey I. , Hurwitz Eric L. , Vugia Duc J.
Published: March 2007

Objectives. We examined barriers to influenza vaccination among long-term care facility (LTCF) health care workers in Southern California and developed simple, effective interventions to improve influenza vaccine coverage of these workers.

Methods. In 2002, health care workers at LTCFs were surveyed regarding their knowledge and attitudes about influenza and the influenza vaccine. Results were used to develop 2 interventions, an educational campaign and Vaccine Day (a well-publicized day for free influenza vaccination of all employees at the worksite). Seventy facilities were recruited to participate in an intervention trial and randomly assigned to 4 study groups.

Results. The combination of Vaccine Day and an educational campaign was most effective in increasing vaccine coverage (53% coverage; prevalence ratio [PR]=1.45; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.24, 1.71, compared with 27% coverage in the control group). Vaccine Day alone was also effective (46% coverage; PR= 1.41; 95% CI=1.17, 1.71). The educational campaign alone was not effective in improving coverage levels (34% coverage; PR=1.18; 95% CI=0.93, 1.50).

Conclusion. Influenza vaccine coverage of LTCF health care workers can be improved by providing free vaccinations at the worksite with a well-publicized Vaccine Day.
Management Academy for Public Health: Creating Entrepreneurial Managers
Authors: Orton Stephen , Umble Karl , Zelt Sue , Porter Janet , Johnson Jim
Published: March 2007

The Management Academy for Public Health develops public health managers’ management skills. Ultimately, the program aims to develop civic entrepreneurs who can improve the efficiency and the effectiveness of their organizations. With help from a coach, teams write public health business plans to meet needs in their communities.

An external evaluation found that 119 teams trained during the first 3 years of the program generated more than $6 million in enhanced revenue—including grants, contracts, and fees through their business plans—from $2 million in program funding. Approximately 38% of the teams expected to generate revenue from an academy business plan or a spin-off plan.

Action-learning methods can help midcareer managers transfer their training to the workplace and build entrepreneurial skills.
Effects of Soft Drink Consumption on Nutrition and Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vartanian Lenny R. , Schwartz Marlene B. , Brownell Kelly D.
Published: March 2007

In a meta-analysis of 88 studies, we examined the association between soft drink consumption and nutrition and health outcomes. We found clear associations of soft drink intake with increased energy intake and body weight. Soft drink intake also was associated with lower intakes of milk, calcium, and other nutrients and with an increased risk of several medical problems (e.g., diabetes).

Study design significantly influenced results: larger effect sizes were observed in studies with stronger methods (longitudinal and experimental vs cross-sectional studies). Several other factors also moderated effect sizes (e.g., gender, age, beverage type). Finally, studies funded by the food industry reported significantly smaller effects than did non–industry-funded studies. Recommendations to reduce population soft drink consumption are strongly supported by the available science.
Giving Everyone the Health of the Educated: An Examination of Whether Social Change Would Save More Lives Than Medical Advances
Authors: Woolf Steven H. , Johnson Robert E. , Phillips Robert L. , Philipsen Maike
Published: March 2007

Objectives. Social determinants of health, such as inadequate education, contribute greatly to mortality rates. We examined whether correcting the social conditions that account for excess deaths among individuals with inadequate education might save more lives than medical advances (e.g., new drugs and devices).

Methods. Using US vital statistics data for 1996 through 2002, we applied indirect standardization techniques to estimate the maximum number of averted deaths attributable to medical advances and the number of deaths that would have been averted if mortality rates among adults with lesser education had been the same as those among college-educated adults.

Results. Medical advances averted a maximum of 178193 deaths during the study period. Correcting disparities in education-associated mortality rates would have saved 1369335 lives during the same period, a ratio of 8:1.

Conclusions. Higher mortality rates among individuals with inadequate education reflect a complex causal pathway and the influence of confounding variables. Formidable efforts at social change would be necessary to eliminate disparities, but the changes would save more lives than would society’s current heavy investment in medical advances. Spending large sums of money on such advances at the expense of social change may be jeopardizing public health.
Firearm Injuries: Epidemic Then, Endemic Now
Authors: Christoffel Katherine Kaufer
Published: March 2007

There has been a transition in US firearm injuries from an epidemic phase (mid-1980s to early 1990s) to an endemic one (since the mid-1990s). Endemic US firearm injuries merit public health attention because they exact an ongoing toll, may give rise to new epidemic outbreaks, and can foster firearm injuries in other parts of the world.

The endemic period is a good time for the development of ongoing prevention approaches, including assessment and monitoring of local risk factors over time and application of proven measures to reduce these risk factors, development of means to address changing circumstances, and ongoing professional and public education designed to weave firearm injury prevention into the fabric of public health work and everyday life.
Effective Lay Health Worker Outreach and Media-Based Education for Promoting Cervical Cancer Screening Among Vietnamese American Women
Authors: Mock Jeremiah , McPhee Stephen J. , Nguyen Thoa , Wong Ching , Doan Hiep , Lai Ky Q. , Nguyen Kim H. , Nguyen Tung T. , Bui-Tong Ngoc
Published: March 2007

Objectives. We sought to promote cervical cancer screening among Vietnamese American women in Santa Clara County, Calif.

Methods. In 2001–2004, we recruited and randomized 1005 Vietnamese American women into 2 groups: lay health worker outreach plus media-based education (combined intervention) or media-based education only. Lay health workers met with the combined intervention group twice over 3 to 4 months to promote Papanicolaou (Pap) testing. We used questionnaires to measure changes in awareness, knowledge, and Pap testing.

Results. Testing increased among women in both the combined intervention (65.8% to 81.8%; P<.001) and media-only (70.1% to 75.5%; P<.001) groups, but significantly more in the combined intervention group (P=.001). Among women never previously screened, significantly more women in the combined intervention group (46.0%) than in the media-only group (27.1%) obtained tests (P<.001). Significantly more women in the combined intervention group obtained their first Pap test or obtained one after an interval of more than 1 year (became up-to-date; 45.7% to 67.3%, respectively; P<.001) than did those in the media-only group (50.9% to 55.7%, respectively; P=.035).

Conclusions. Combined intervention motivated more Vietnamese American women to obtain their first Pap tests and to become up-to-date than did media education alone.
Dentists’ Management of the Diabetic Patient: Contrasting Generalists and Specialists
Authors: Kunzel Carol , Lalla Evanthia , Lamster Ira
Published: March 2007

Objectives. We measured and contrasted general dentists’ and periodontists’ involvement in 3 areas of managing diabetic patients—assessment of health status, discussion of pertinent issues, and active management of patients—and identified and contrasted predictors of active management of diabetic patients.

Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional mail survey of random samples of general dentists and periodontists in the northeastern United States during fall 2002, using lists from the 2001 American Dental Directory and the 2002 American Academy of Periodontology Directory. Responses were received from 105 of 132 eligible general dentists (response rate=80%) and from 103 of 142 eligible periodontists (response rate=73%).

Results. Confidence, involvement with colleagues and medical experts, and professional responsibility were influential predictors of active management for periodontists (R2=0.46, P<.001). Variables pertaining to patient relations were significant predictors for general dentists (R2=0.55, P<.001).

Conclusions. Our findings permitted us to assess and compare general dentists’ and periodontists’ behavior in 3 realms—assessment of diabetic patients’ health status, discussion of pertinent issues, and active management of diabetic patients—and to identify components of potentially effective targeted interventions aimed at increasing specialists’ and generalist dentists’ involvement in the active management of diabetic patients.
The Role of Genetics in the Provision of Essential Public Health Services
Authors: Wang Grace , Watts Carolyn
Published: March 2007

States include genetics services among their public health programs, but budget shortfalls raise the question, is genetics an essential part of public health? We used the Essential Services of Public Health consensus statement and data from state genetics plans to analyze states’ public health genetics programs.

Public health genetics programs fulfill public health obligations: birth defects surveillance and prevention programs protect against environmental hazards, newborn screening programs prevent injuries, and clinical genetics programs ensure the quality and accessibility of health services. These programs fulfill obligations by providing 4 essential public health services, and they could direct future efforts toward privacy policies, research on communications, and rigorous evaluations.
Patient Confidentiality in the Research Use of Clinical Medical Databases
Authors: Krishna Rajeev , Kelleher Kelly , Stahlberg Eric
Published: March 2007

Electronic medical record keeping has led to increased interest in analyzing historical patient data to improve care delivery. Such research use of patient data, however, raises concerns about confidentiality and institutional liability. Institutional review boards must balance patient data security with a researcher’s ability to explore potentially important clinical relationships.

We considered the issues involved when patient records from health care institutions are used in medical research. We also explored current regulations on patient confidentiality, the need for identifying information in research, and the effectiveness of deidentification and data security. We will present an algorithm for researchers to use to think about the data security needs of their research, and we will introduce a vocabulary for documenting these techniques in proposals and publications.
Improving Access to Comprehensive Injury Risk Assessment and Risk Factor Reduction in Older Adult Populations
Authors: Pressley Joyce C. , Barlow Barbara , Quitel Lodze , Jafri Aisha
Published: March 2007

Preventing injuries in older populations (aged 50–86 years) is more complex than in younger populations because of frailty, comorbidities, polypharmacy, and physical and cognitive functional limitations. To improve accessibility and delivery of comprehensive, focused injury prevention, we developed a model incorporating applicable features of our national children’s program with additional elements to address challenges of older populations. The older adult injury prevention model addresses gaps in prevention by improving access to risk factor screening, safety devices, education, counseling, medical care, and referrals.
Effects on Outpatient and Emergency Mental Health Care of Strict Medicaid Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Enforcement
Authors: Snowden Lonnie R. , Masland Mary C. , Wallace Neal T. , Evans-Cuellar Allison
Published: March 2007

We investigated enforcement of mental health benefits provided by California Medicaid’s Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. Enforcement, compelled by a consumer-driven lawsuit, resulted in an almost 4-fold funding increase over a 5-year period.

We evaluated the impact of enforcement on outpatient treatment intensity (number of visits per child) and rates of emergency care treatment. Using fixed-effects regression, we examined the number of outpatient mental health visits per client and the percentage of all clients using crisis care across 53 autonomous California county mental health plans over 32 three-month periods (quarters; emergency crisis care rates) and 36 quarters (out-patient mental health visits).

Enforcement of EPSDT benefits in accordance with federal law produced favorable changes in patterns of mental health service use, consistent with policy aims.
Quality characteristics of edible linseed oil
Authors: NYKTER M. , KYMÄLÄINEN H-R. , GATES F.
Published: March 2007

In this review the quality properties of linseed oil for food uses are discussed as well as factors affecting this quality. Linseed oil has a favourable fatty acid composition with a high linolenic acid content. Linseed oil contains nearly 60% á-linolenic acid, compared with 25% for plant oils generally. The content of linolenic acid and omega-3 fatty acids is reported to be high in linseed grown in northern latitudes. The composition of fatty acids, especially unsaturated fatty acids, reported in different studies varies considerably for linseed oil. This variation depends mainly on differences in the examined varieties and industrial processing treatments. The fatty acid composition leads also to some problems, rancidity probably being the most challenging. Some information has been published concerning oxidation and taste, whereas only a few studies have focused on colour or microbiological quality. Rancidity negatively affects the taste and odour of the oil. There are available a few studies on effects of storage on composition of linseed oil. In general, storage and heat promote auto-oxidation of fats, as well as decrease the amounts of tocopherols and vitamin E in linseed oil. Several methods are available to promote the quality of the oil, including agronomic methods and methods of breeding as well as chemical, biotechnological and microbiological methods. Time of harvesting and weather conditions affect the quality and yield of the oil.;
Abatement costs for agricultural nitrogen and phosphorus loads: a case study of crop farming in south-western Finland
Authors: HELIN J. , LAUKKANEN M. , KOIKKALAINEN K.
Published: March 2007

Designing efficient agri-environmental policies for agricultural nutrient load reductions calls for information on the costs of emission reduction measures. This study develops an empirical framework for estimating abatement costs for nutrient loading from agricultural land. Nitrogen abatement costs and the phosphorus load reductions associated with nitrogen abatement are derived for crop farming in south-western Finland. The model is used to evaluate the effect of the Common Agricultural Policy reform currently underway on nutrient abatement costs. Results indicate that an efficiently designed policy aimed at a 50% reduction in agricultural nitrogen load would cost  48 to  35 million, or  3756 to  2752 per farm.;
Quality and shelf life of packaged fresh sliced mushrooms stored at two different temperatures
Authors: GONZÁLEZ-FANDOS E. , SIMON JIMENES A. , TOBAR PARDO V.
Published: March 2007

The sensory and microbiological quality of sliced mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus L.) packaged in films of perforated and non-perforated PVC and stored at 3 and 9ºC, was studied. The carbon dioxide and oxygen content inside the packages, colour, weight loss, sensory attributes, mesophiles, Pseudomonas, Enterobacteriaceae, aerobic and anaerobic spore formers were determined. The atmosphere generated with the perforated PVC film was similar to that of air atmosphere at 3 or 9ºC. T.he non-perforated PVC film generated inside the packages CO2 : O2 concentrations of 3.4% : 8.1% at 3ºC and CO2 : O2 concentrations of 4.5% : 0.15% at 9ºC. Browning of mushrooms was lower at 3 than at 9ºC. The quality of sliced mushrooms packaged in perforated PVC and stored at 3ºC was adequate after 9 days. However, at 9ºC, the slice deformation and brown blotches incidence were severe after 9 days. The atmosphere generated with non-perforated PVC inhibited aerobic microorganism growth compared to mushrooms packaged in perforated PVC. At 3ºC, the shelf life of mushrooms packaged in non perforated PVC was around 13 days. However, the extremely low O2 atmospheres generated at 9ºC was accompanied by off-odours and growth of anaerobic spore formers, although the appearance of sliced mushrooms was acceptable.;
Using Time Series to Estimate Rates of Population Change from Abundance Data
Authors: RYDING KRISTEN E. , MILLSPAUGH JOSHUA J. , SKALSKI JOHN R.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Assessing the dynamics of wild populations often involves an estimate of the finite rate of population increase (λ) or the instantaneous rate of increase (r). However, a pervasive problem in trend estimation is that many analytical techniques assume independent errors among the observations. To be valid, variance estimates around λ (or r) must account for serial correlation that exists in abundance data. Time series analysis provides a method for estimating population trends and associated variances when serial correlation of errors occurs. We offer an approach and present an example for estimating λ and its associated variance when observations are correlated over time. We present a simplified time series method and variance estimator to account for autocorrelation based on a moving average process. We illustrate the procedure using a spectacled eider (Somateria fischeri) data set of estimated annual abundances from aerial transect surveys conducted from 1957 to 1995. The analytic variance estimator provides a way to plan future studies to reduce uncertainty and bias in estimates of population growth rates. Demographic studies with policy implications or those involving species of conservation concern should especially consider the correlated nature of population trend data.
Nesting Ecology of Boreal Forest Birds Following a Massive Outbreak of Spruce Beetles
Authors: MATSUOKA STEVEN M. , HANDEL COLLEEN M.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:We studied breeding dark‐eyed juncos (Junco hyemalis), yellow‐rumped warblers (Dendroica coronata), and spruce‐nesting birds from 1997 to 1998 among forests with different levels of spruce (Piceaspp.) mortality following an outbreak of spruce beetles (Dendroctonus rufipennis) in Alaska, USA. We identified species using live and beetle‐killed spruce for nest sites and monitored nests to determine how the outbreak influenced avian habitat selection and reproduction. We tested predictions that 1) nesting success of ground‐nesting juncos would increase with spruce mortality due to proliferation of understory vegetation available to conceal nests from predators, 2) nesting success of canopy‐nesting warblers would decrease with spruce mortality due to fewer live spruce in which to conceal nests, and 3) both species would alter nest‐site selection in response to disturbance. Juncos did not benefit from changes in understory vegetation; nesting success in highly disturbed stands (46%) was comparable to that in undisturbed habitats throughout their range. In stands with low spruce mortality, nesting success of juncos was low (5%) and corresponded with high densities of red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). Yellow‐rumped warblers nested exclusively in spruce, but success did not vary with spruce mortality. As disturbance increased, nesting warblers switched from selecting forest patches with high densities of live white spruce (Picea glauca) to patches with beetle‐killed spruce. Warblers also placed nests in large‐diameter live or beetle‐killed spruce, depending on which was more abundant in the stand, with no differences in nesting success. Five of the 12 other species of spruce‐nesting birds also used beetle‐killed spruce as nest sites. Because beetle‐killed spruce can remain standing for >50 years, even highly disturbed stands provide an important breeding resource for boreal forest birds. We recommend that boreal forest managers preserve uncut blocks of infested forest within managed forest landscapes and practice partial harvest of beetle‐killed spruce rather than commercial clear‐cutting of infested stands in order to sustain breeding bird populations until natural reforestation occurs. Because breeding densities do not always reflect fitness, assessing impacts of a massive natural disturbance should include measuring impacts of changes in vegetation on both reproductive success and predator‐prey dynamics.
Effects of Precommercial Thinning on Snowshoe Hares in Maine
Authors: HOMYACK JESSICA A. , HARRISON DANIEL J. , KROHN WILLIAM B.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:Snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) are an important prey species and a dominant herbivore across much of their North American range, and researchers have questioned the influences of forestry practices that alter habitat for hares and the potential community‐level effects on carnivores. We examined the effects of precommercial thinning (PCT) from 1 to 11 years posttreatment on snowshoe hares. In the commercial forests of northern Maine, USA, we counted and cleared hare pellets twice a year during 2001 and 2002 on >46 km of pellet transects across 30 regenerating conifer stands (17 treated with PCT) previously treated with an aerial application of herbicide. We compared densities of snowshoe hare pellets among 3 development classes with (1 yr after thinning, 6 yr after thinning, and 11 yr after thinning) and without thinning (stands with a similar history of clearcut and herbicide treatment but no thinning). During both years, densities of hares were lower in stands treated with PCT than in similar unthinned stands across the 3 development classes and during both leaf‐off and leaf‐on seasons (P< 0.001). Within both thinned and unthinned stands, hare density was greatest in stands in the 1‐year development class when compared to the 6‐year and 11‐year development classes, but a statistical difference (P= 0.048) among classes was evident only during leaf‐off seasons. Precommercial thinning was associated with densities of snowshoe hares that were approximately half of those in similar unthinned stands up to at least 11 years posttreatment; however, thinned stands may retain densities of hares greater than stands managed using other forest harvesting regimes. Our results apply to core portions of stands with crop trees spaced at 1.8–2.4‐m intervals following complete overstory removal and herbicide treatment. We advocate caution when applying our results to other thinning regimes or across broader spatial scales.
Probability of Detecting Band‐Tailed Pigeons During Call‐Broadcast Versus Auditory Surveys
Authors: KIRKPATRICK CHRIS , CONWAY COURTNEY J. , HUGHES KATIE M. , DEVOS JAMES C.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Estimates of population trend for the interior subspecies of band‐tailed pigeon (Patagioenas fasciata fasciata) are not available because no standardized survey method exists for monitoring the interior subspecies. We evaluated 2 potential band‐tailed pigeon survey methods (auditory and call‐broadcast surveys) from 2002 to 2004 in 5 mountain ranges in southern Arizona, USA, and in mixed‐conifer forest throughout the state. Both auditory and call‐broadcast surveys produced low numbers of cooing pigeons detected per survey route (x̄ ≤ 0.67) and had relatively high temporal variance in average number of cooing pigeons detected during replicate surveys (CV ≥ 161%). However, compared to auditory surveys, use of call‐broadcast increased 1) the percentage of replicate surveys on which ≥1 cooing pigeon was detected by an average of 16%, and 2) the number of cooing pigeons detected per survey route by an average of 29%, with this difference being greatest during the first 45 minutes of the morning survey period. Moreover, probability of detecting a cooing pigeon was 27% greater during call‐broadcast (0.80) versus auditory (0.63) surveys. We found that cooing pigeons were most common in mixed‐conifer forest in southern Arizona and density of male pigeons in mixed‐conifer forest throughout the state averaged 0.004 (SE = 0.001) pigeons/ha. Our results are the first to show that call‐broadcast increases the probability of detecting band‐tailed pigeons (or any species of Columbidae) during surveys. Call‐broadcast surveys may provide a useful method for monitoring populations of the interior subspecies of band‐tailed pigeon in areas where other survey methods are inappropriate.
Space Use and Habitat Selection by Female Louisiana Black Bears in the Tensas River Basin of Louisiana
Authors: BENSON JOHN F. , CHAMBERLAIN MICHAEL J.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:Studies of space use and habitat selection of endangered species are useful for identifying factors that influence fitness of individuals and viability of populations. However, there is a lack of published information regarding these behaviors for the federally threatened Louisiana black bear (Ursus americanus luteolus). We documented space use and habitat selection for 28 female black bears in 2 subpopulations of the Tensas River Basin population in northeast Louisiana, USA. The Tensas subpopulation inhabits a relatively large (>300‐km2) contiguous area of bottomland hardwood forest, whereas the Deltic subpopulation exists mainly in 2 small (<7‐km2) forested patches surrounded by an agricultural matrix. Females on Deltic maintained smaller seasonal and annual home ranges than females on Tensas (allP< 0.04), except for females with cubs during spring. On Tensas, females with cubs maintained smaller home ranges than females without cubs during spring (P= 0.01), but we did not detect this difference on Deltic or in other seasons. Females on Tensas and Deltic exhibited differences in habitat selection when establishing home ranges and within home ranges (P< 0.001). Deltic females selected mature bottomland hardwood forests and avoided agricultural habitats at both spatial scales. Tensas females selected a mixture of swamps, mature and regenerating forests, and exhibited variation in selection across scale, season, and reproductive status. We suggest that differences in space use and habitat selection between Tensas and Deltic are at least partially due to habitat differences at the landscape (i.e., amount of forested habitat) and patch (i.e., food availability) scales. Our results contribute to the understanding of factors that influence space use and habitat selection by black bears and provide specific information on habitat types selected by Louisiana black bears to agencies involved in habitat protection and restoration for this threatened subspecies.
Red‐Headed Woodpecker Nest‐Habitat Thresholds in Restored Savannas
Authors: KING RICHARD S. , BRASHEAR KATHERINE E. , REIMAN MANDIN
Published: March 2007

Abstract: The red‐headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) is a widespread, adaptable species that continues to decline across North America. We examined stand, nest‐tree, and cavity characteristics of red‐headed woodpeckers in restored savannas within the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Wisconsin, USA, during 2002 and 2003. Based on availability, red‐headed woodpeckers selected snags and trees with greater dead limb length. Red‐headed woodpeckers nested in areas with greater basal area, cavity density, snag density, limb‐tree density, and total dead limb length. Red‐headed woodpeckers exhibited a decadent‐tree threshold that was most accurately measured by the number of trees with dead limbs around (0.04 ha) nests. We found that the probability of a red‐headed woodpecker nest being present greatly increased above the decadent‐tree threshold. Woodland managers throughout the red‐headed woodpecker's extensive breeding range can use our results and recommendations to guide decadent‐tree retention for this species.
Declining Body Condition of Northern Pintails Wintering in the Playa Lakes Region
Authors: MOON JENA A. , HAUKOS DAVID A. , SMITH LORENM.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Overwinter body condition (e.g., fat) provides an index to the health of northern pintail (Anas acuta) populations and may be a factor in the decline of the continental pintail population that has been previously overlooked or understated. We compared body condition between 1984–1985 and 2002–2003, and found that body condition of pintails arriving during early winter in the Playa Lakes Region (PLR) of Texas, USA, has declined by an average of 32%. Body fat levels declined at varying levels with juvenile males showing the largest decline of 41%, followed by adult females with 39%, juvenile females with 30%, and adult males with an overall 18% decline. Declines are likely related to declines in migration and wintering habitat quantity and quality within the PLR and potentially across the Central Flyway. We recommend further acquisition and management of play as to ensure that these valuable habitats remain available to provide critical habitats for migrating and wintering pintails and other waterfowl in the Central Flyway.