bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical Range, Current Distribution, and Conservation Status of the Swift Fox, Vulpes velox, in North America
Authors: Sovada Marsha A. , Woodward Robert O. , Igl Lawrence D.
Published: January 2017

The Swift Fox (Vulpes velox) was once common in the shortgrass and mixed-grass prairies of the Great Plains of North America. The species' abundance declined and its distribution retracted following European settlement of the plains. By the late 1800s, the species had been largely extirpated from the northern portion of its historical range, and its populations were acutely depleted elsewhere. Swift Fox populations have naturally recovered somewhat since the 1950s, but overall abundance and distribution remain below historical levels. In a 1995 assessment of the species' status under the US Endangered Species Act, the US Fish and Wildlife Service concluded that a designation of threatened or endangered was warranted, but the species was "precluded from listing by higher listing priorities." A major revelation of the 1995 assessment was the recognition that information useful for determining population status was limited. Fundamental information was missing, including an accurate estimate of the species' distribution before European settlement and an estimate of the species' current distribution and trends. The objectives of this paper are to fill those gaps in knowledge. Historical records were compiled and, in combination with knowledge of the habitat requirements of the species, the historical range of the Swift Fox is estimated to be approximately 1.5 million km2. Using data collected between 2001 and 2006, the species' current distribution is estimated to be about 44% of its historical range in the United States and 3% in Canada. Under current land use, approximately 39% of the species' historical range contains grassland habitats with very good potential for Swift Fox occupation and another 10% supports grasslands with characteristics that are less preferred (e.g., a sparse shrub component or taller stature) but still suitable. Additionally, land use on at least 25% of the historical range supports dryland farming, which can be suitable for Swift Fox occupation. In the United States, approximately 52% of highest quality habitats currently available are occupied by Swift Foxes.
Uterine Prolapse in an Adult Richardson's Ground Squirrel, Spermophilus richardsonii
Authors: Proulx Gilbert , Mackenzie Keith , Mackenzie Neil , Proulx Benjamin P.
Published: January 2017

During a study of Richardson's Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus richardsonii) populations in southern Saskatchewan, we captured one adult female with a partially prolapsed uterus. This is the first known case of uterine prolapse in a Richardson's Ground Squirrel.
Interspecific Mate Choice and Hybridism in the Bufflehead, Bucephala albeola
Authors: Finley James K. , Huot Suzanne
Published: January 2017

Observations of a male Bufflehead (Bucephela albeola) paired with a female Common Goldeneye (Bucephela clangula) in northern Alberta in 1995 and of a hybrid male Common Goldeneye × Bufflehead photographed near Victoria, British Columbia, in March 2009 provide the first combined evidence of interspecific mate choice and out-crossing in Bucephala albeola. Since 1999, there have been at least 10 unofficial records, including photographs, of Common Goldeneye × Bufflehead hybrids posted on the Internet, as well as 6 records of hybridization with Hooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus). In all cases, where evident in Common Goldeneye × Buffleheads, gold eyes and pink feet were expressed and social affiliation was with Common Goldeneyes, suggesting matrilineage with that species. Because most attention is given to the hybrid - and to male hybrids at that - rather than to the progenitors, the theory of mate attraction, through sexual imprinting of males, is biased toward the paternal viewpoint. It appears that there is more plasticity in mate choice, particularly by the female. The opportunity to observe mate choice is much rarer than the hybrid outcome, while the odds of the latter have increased many fold in the last decade due to advances in Internet communication and digital photography. This exercise illustrates the ability of the Internet to amplify the prevalence of rare phenomena many fold over historical records.
The Diet of the Eastern Screech-Owl, Megascops asio, at the Northern Periphery of its Range
Authors: Artuso Christian
Published: January 2017

Four techniques: pellet analysis, post-fledging nest inspection, video monitoring, and direct observation were used to study the diet of Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, at the northern limit of the species' range. In 2004 - 2007, 2323 prey items were analyzed. Invertebrates comprised 67% of prey captures but only 11% of biomass consumed. Seasonal shifts in diet between biologically significant periods were significant such that multiple discriminant analyses correctly classified 60% of pre-breeding season, 91% of incubation, 67% of brooding, 86% post-fledging and 100% of winter consumption. Rural pairs consumed a higher percentage of invertebrates and fewer vertebrates than suburban pairs. Prey diversity and niche breadth peaked in low-density suburban areas but rural areas and high-density suburbs were similar in terms of niche breadth. Only 37 vertebrate prey species were recorded and the total niche breadth was 6.5, reflective of a higher degree of diet specialization than more southerly populations.
Prolonged Intensive Dominance Behavior Between Gray Wolves, Canis lupus
Authors: Mech L. David , Cluff H. Dean
Published: January 2017

Dominance is one of the most pervasive and important behaviors among wolves in a pack, yet its significance in free-ranging packs has been little studied. Insights into a behavior can often be gained by examining unusual examples of it. In the High Arctic near Eureka, Nunavut, Canada, we videotaped and described an unusually prolonged and intensive behavioral bout between an adult male Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) and a male member of his pack, thought to be a maturing son. With tail raised, the adult approached a male pack mate about 50 m from us and pinned and straddled this packmate repeatedly over 6.5 minutes, longer than we had ever seen in over 50 years of studying wolves. We interpreted this behavior as an extreme example of an adult wolf harassing a maturing offspring, perhaps in prelude to the offspring's dispersal.
Blanding's Turtle, Emydoidea blandingii, Habitat Use During Hibernation in Eastern Ontario
Authors: Seburn David C.
Published: January 2017

Seven Blanding's Turtles (Emydoidea blandingii) were followed using radiotelemetry to determine their habitat use during hibernation near Ottawa, Ontario. During May to August, five of the seven turtles occupied wetlands in which they would eventually hibernate. The turtles hibernated in five different wetlands: three in Organic Shallow Marsh Ecosites and two in Organic Thicket Swamp Ecosites. One Blanding's Turtle over-wintered in a temporary marsh that did not form until October. Blanding's Turtles do not appear to be limited in their choice of suitable hibernation sites even near the northern range limit of the species.
Unusual Beaver, Castor canadensis, Dams in Central Yukon
Authors: Jung Thomas S. , Staniforth Jennifer A.
Published: January 2017

North American Beavers (Castor canadensis) are remarkable for their ability to build dams and modify their habitat. Dams are typically made of the boles and branches of trees and large shrubs, and reinforced with mud and rocks. Here, we report two unusual Beaver dams in central Yukon, Canada, that are made primarily of medium-sized rocks. This observation points to the adaptability of Beavers in using available materials to build their dams.
Long Persistence and Other Aspects of Variants of False Mayweed, Tripleurospermum maritima, at Sackville, New Brunswick
Authors: Erskine A. J.
Published: January 2017

Over a 25-year period, plants of Tripleurospermum maritima with aberrant inflorescences have been observed growing without cultivation by Crescent Street in Sackville, New Brunswick. Aberrant plants varied between years in locations, suggesting reproduction by seed. Plants with variant inflorescences comprised about one percent of total plants in counted samples. As many as 100 variant plants were found in a year. The site may have received toxic waste disposal causing a mutation that resulted in observed aberrations. The inflorescence aberrations are primarily of two kinds; those with only white rays throughout, and those with some yellow disc flowers that later were concealed by white rays. A third aberration involved inflorescences that appeared nearly normal when first seen, but later developed to the second preceding form. Plants with aberrant inflorescences did not differ from normal plants in morphology or flowering time. Aberrant inflorescences appeared somewhat later in the flowering period than flowering in plants with normal inflorescences.
Migrant Common Eider, Somateria mollissima, Collisions with Power Transmission Lines and Shortwave Communication Towers on the Tantramar Marsh in Southeastern New Brunswick
Authors: MacKinnon Colin M. , Kennedy Andrew C.
Published: January 2017

Between 1971 and 2009, 85 dead, injured, or grounded Common Eiders, Somateria mollissima, were recorded on the Tantramar Marsh in southeastern New Brunswick, apparently the result of collisions with power transmission lines and shortwave communication towers. Of 82 location observations, 53 (65%) were near a series of power transmission lines and 21 (26%) were in the vicinity of shortwave communication towers. Of the 85 birds observed, 43 (51%) were found dead, 18 (21%) were found alive on the ground with undetermined injuries, 5 (6%) were found alive with broken wings, and 9 birds (11%) were found alive with no obvious external injuries and were released in water. A further 10 live birds (12%) were observed on small bodies of water and appeared unable to fly. Occurrences appear to be predominantly during fall migration, with most sightings recorded between 9 October and 21 December (99%, n = 73). The effects of cumulative mortality on Common Eiders should be considered if further infrastructure within the Tantramar Marsh or infrastructure involving other known overland routes used by Common Eiders during migration is proposed.
Some Wild Canadian Orchids Benefit from Woodland Hiking Trails - and the Implications
Authors: Catling Paul M. , Kostiuk Brenda
Published: January 2017

To clarify the impact that trails have on orchids we compared the occurrence of orchids on the lightly trampled edges of bare trails, with the occurrence of orchids in the surrounding woodland and noted the degree of disturbance. A two-way mixed analysis of variance, using six trails from across Canada, indicated that location by distance strata interaction was lacking. Orchid densities were consistently higher within a few meters of the bare portion of a trail than further away. The width of the disturbance gradient for two well-used trails in parks in Bruce County, Ontario, was determined with regression to be within 1 m from the edge of the bare portion of the trail. Calypso bulbosa var. americana on trails in in Alberta, Epipactis helleborine and Goodyera oblongifolia on trails in Ontario, Goodyera repens on trails in Northwest Territories and all native orchids (cumulatively) on trails on Flowerpot Island, Ontario demonstrated consistent and significant increased abundance within the trail disturbance gradients in comparison to their occurrence in the surrounding forest. More flowering plants of Goodyera oblongifolia and mature capsules of Epipactis helleborine occurred in the trail disturbance gradient than beyond suggesting a beneficial impact on fecundity. The disturbance gradient effect likely includes light trampling which reduces competition, compacts soil, and exposes mineral soil. The effect also includes increased light and microclimate differences near to the path. Landscape managers should recognize that in some situations orchids may benefit greatly from trails and that trails may be better considered as a benefit than as a problem.
Influence of Wind and Humidity on Foraging Behavior of Olfactory Mesopredators
Authors: Ruzicka Rebekah E. , Conover Michael R.
Published: January 2017

Many mammalian predators rely on scents to locate prey and weather conditions that affect an odor plume (i.e., scents suspended in air) or depositional odor (i.e., scents laid on the ground) should affect predator foraging behavior. We predicted that wind speed, wind direction, and humidity would influence the foraging behavior of olfactory mesopredators. We tested these predictions by conducting spotlight surveys for foraging Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes), Striped Skunks (Mephitis mephitis), and Raccoons (Procyon lotor) along the dike surrounding Willard Bay Reservoir in Willard, Utah, from August 2008 to August 2009. We recorded predator species, locations, numbers, and weather conditions at the time each predator was observed. While humidity had no effect on foraging, wind speed and direction were significant predictors of a predator's nightly foraging activity, with most predators observed when wind speeds were 2 to 4 m/s and winds were blowing perpendicularly over the dike the dike rather than parallel to the dike. Wind speed and direction also influenced where predators foraged on the dike, with predators being more likely to forage on the windward side of the dike when wind speeds were high enough to cause turbulence. We detected differences among predator species in their response to wind speed: Raccoons were more active than Striped Skunks and Red Foxes when the wind was calm and blowing parallel to the dike. Overall, our results indicate that these predator species alter their foraging behavior based on wind speed and wind direction. By foraging when winds were light and blowing perpendicularly over the dike, predators could likely enhance their ability to locate food using olfaction.
Effects of Feral Horses on Vegetation of Sable Island, Nova Scotia
Authors: Freedman Bill , Catling Paul M. , Lucas Zoe
Published: January 2017

To provide necessary information for the management of biodiversity on Sable Island, Nova Scotia, we studied the effects of feral horses on vegetation using exclosures and ancillary observations. Nine plant communities inside and outside of six exclosures were compared using various vegetation parameters and Mann-Whitney tests to evaluate the significance of differences. The most important findings were as follows: (1) effects of horses were greatest in the Marram (Ammophila breviligulata) grassland and much less in the communities that were not dominated by Marram Grass; (2) effects on Marram grassland varied substantially among sites; (3) the cover of standing litter of herbaceous plants was on average of 9.3 times greater inside exclosures in grassland habitats; (4) the cover of living foliage was usually higher inside exclosures, but not all differences were significant; (5) species richness and species diversity were not substantially affected; (6) the average cover of Marram Grass, the most abundant plant and a key sand binder on the island, was greater inside exclosures in six of seven study sites, significantly so in three of them; and (7) there were inconsistent differences in cover of other species at different sites. Wetland habitats cover a relatively small portion of Sable Island, but they support much of the plant biodiversity. There is evidence of strong but variable effects of horses on wetland vegetation. “Horse lawns” are littoral habitats dominated by Agrostis stolonifera (Carpet Bentgrass) and other low-growing plants. The lawn habitats represent less than 1% of the island’s vegetation, and their presence is believed to be due to grazing and trampling by horses.
Has the Western Chorus Frog (Pseudacris triseriata) Declined in Western Ottawa, Ontario?
Authors: Seburn David C. , Gunson Kari
Published: January 2017

To determine whether the Western Chorus Frog has declined in western Ottawa, we conducted auditory surveys at historical locations as well as at various other wetlands. Western Chorus Frogs were detected at 12 of 18 historical locations. Wetland habitat remained at all historical locations where the species was not detected. There was no difference in the year of historical records for sites where Western Chorus Frogs were (median 1987.5) and were not (median 1987.5) detected. In the present study, Western Chorus Frogs were also detected at 30 locations where they had not been previously reported. Historical sites where Western Chorus Frogs were not detected were not significantly farther away from known Western Chorus Frog sites (median distance: 2.2 km) than historical sites where Western Chorus Frogs were detected (median distance: 1.4 km). Land use variables for historical sites where Western Chorus Frogs were and were not detected did not vary significantly at any spatial scale from 0.5 to 2.0 km. Western Chorus Frogs were detected in areas with up to 50% forest cover and up to 86% agricultural cover at the 1.0-km radius. The lack of historical data makes it difficult to assess the current status of the Western Chorus Frog in western Ottawa. The species may have declined, remained approximately the same (by shifting to different breeding sites), or even increased its distribution (by colonizing additional sites).
A Second Amelanistic Eastern Red-backed Salamander, Plethodon cinereus, from Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Russell Ronald W. , Beslin Wilfried , Hudak Maia , Ogunbiyi Ayokunle , Withrow Avery , Gilhen John
Published: January 2017

In 2011, an amelanistic Eastern Red-backed Salamander, Plethodon cinereus, was discovered in Point Pleasant Park in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This is the second amelanistic Eastern Red-backed Salamander that has been documented from the Halifax area. Albino and leucistic individuals have also been identified from Nova Scotia. These aberrant conditions, including the two amelanistic individals, were discovered in isolated, fragmented, and disturbed habitat.
Trends and Fluctuations in Bird Populations on the Tundra at Cambridge Bay, Nunavut
Authors: Lok C. Martin , Vink Jaap A. J.
Published: January 2017

Bird observations from the Cambridge Bay area on Victoria Island, Nunavut, in the summer of 2011 are presented and compared with those from the 1960s and 1980s. A total of 38 species was observed, compared with 42 in 1983 and 47 in 1986. Abundance of species of the High Arctic, such as Black Brant, Branta bernicla nigricans, Black-bellied Plover, Pluvialis squatarola, and Baird’s Sandpiper, Calidris bairdii, decreased, whereas numbers of the Red-necked Phalarope, Phalaropus lobatus, usually associated with the Low Arctic, increased markedly. Overall, the number of each species observed is rather stable and, for several species, the relative abundance does not seem to have changed significantly.
Genetic Evidence Supports Boreal Chickadee (Poecile hudsonicus) × Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) Hybridization in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Lait Linda A. , Lauff Randy F. , Burg Theresa M.
Published: January 2017

Both morphological and genetic evidence support a hybridization event between a Boreal Chickadee (Poecile hudsonicus) and a Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) in Atlantic Canada. Plumage of the hybrid was intermediate to both parental species, with buffy sides and a dark brown cap on the head. Mitochondrial DNA control region showed the female lineage to be from a Boreal Chickadee, while Z-linked markers showed mixed Boreal Chickadee × Black-capped Chickadee heritage, likely representing an F1 hybrid. This is the first documented case of hybridization between these species in eastern North America, and it adds to the increasing evidence supporting intrageneric avian hybridization.
In situ Caching of a Large Mammal Carcass by a Fisher, Martes pennanti
Authors: Hüner Ethan A. , Peter Justin F. B.
Published: January 2017

We document what is apparently the first reported instance of in situ caching of a large mammal carcass by a Fisher (Martes pennanti).
First Record of Parasites from Cougars (Puma concolor) in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Dare O. K. , Watkins W. G.
Published: January 2017

Cougars (Puma concolor) are a rare sighting in Manitoba. This is the first report on Cougar parasites in Manitoba and the first record of Taenia omissa for the province. These data provide an important baseline that will inform future research on parasite profiles and predator–prey interactions between these large carnivores and other wildlife in the province.
Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) behaviour, interactions with Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina), and their Pleistocene history
Authors: Lumsden Harry G.
Published: January 2017

Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina) prey on and injure Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) cygnets. Adult Trumpeter Swans stamp on and attack turtles, and this sometimes saves the lives of cygnets. Stamping behaviour, duetting, clamouring, and mobbing are directed at predators. The stamping behaviour may be derived from the water treading display. During the Pleistocene ice sheet maxima, all Trumpeter Swans east of the Rockies nested within the range of the Snapping Turtle. Snapping Turtle predation may have selected for the stamping behaviour.
Ecological and geographical separation of three varieties of Sporobolus vaginiflorus (Poaceae) in eastern Ontario
Authors: Catling Paul M.
Published: January 2017

Field and herbarium studies of the three varieties of Sporobolus vaginiflorus (var. inaequalis, var. vaginiflorus, and var. ozarkanus) in eastern Ontario found that (1) there is a strong tendency for the varieties to occur alone; (2) var. inaequalis occurs primarily on roadside gravels, river shores, and granite barrens and is the only variety associated with acid as well as alkaline substrates; and (3) both var. vaginiflorus and var. ozarkanus are confined to alvar landscapes but occupy different geographical regions. The ecological and geographical differentiation of these taxa supports their taxonomic recognition and the protection of alvar landscapes to conserve subspecific variants.
Bird behaviour on and entanglement in invasive burdock (Arctium spp.) plants in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Authors: Underwood Todd J. , Underwood Robyn M.
Published: January 2017

Burdocks (Arctium spp.) are invasive plants native to Eurasia. They produce their seeds within large burrs that adhere to vertebrates for seed dispersal, i.e., epizoochory. Small animals may become entangled in these burrs and die. Through active searches of natural areas in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from 2000 to 2005, we documented 29 songbirds entangled in burdock burrs and recorded observations of bird behaviour on burdock plants. We analyzed trends among birds found entangled by taxon, sex, age, migratory status, and season, and we compared them to observations of bird activity on burdock. Thirteen species of birds were found entangled. Most birds found entangled (62%) were warblers (Parulidae), but there were also species from five other families (<15% per family). There was no significant difference in the distribution of birds found entangled by sex or age. A significant proportion of birds found entangled were migrants, and the average number of birds found entangled per search visit differed significantly by season, with most birds found entangled in fall. By comparison, we recorded 34 species of birds (n = 178 observations) active on burdock plants. Warblers (38%) and sparrows (Emberizidae) (24%) were the most active, followed by small numbers of birds from eight other families (<9% per family). Species that were observed actively foraging on burdocks more often became entangled than those species observed only perching on burdocks. Species found entangled had a significantly lower body mass than species that were not found entangled but were active on burdocks. Overall, we suggest that small-bodied fall migrants that forage on burdock plants are most at risk of becoming entangled.
Yellow Warblers (Setophaga petechia) rear second broods in some years at Delta Marsh, Manitoba
Authors: Sealy Spencer G.
Published: January 2017

Twenty cases of double brooding by colour-marked Yellow Warblers (Setophaga petechia) were recorded in 5 of 11 years (1975–1986, no data collected in 1977) during studies of breeding ecology in the dune-ridge forest at Delta Marsh, Manitoba (1 pair in 1975, 3 pairs in 1976, 3 pairs in 1984, 9 pairs in 1985, and 4 pairs in 1986). At least one member of each of the 20 pairs was marked. Eleven pairs re-used their first nest for the second attempt, whereas 9 females built a new nest, in 5 cases because the original nests had disintegrated. Four of the second nests (3 in 1985 and 1 in 1986) were parasitized by Brown-headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater). All 20 first nests produced at least one young, a condition for double brooding, and 13 second nests, including 3 that were parasitized, were successful. Failure of about 60% of annual nesting attempts at Delta Marsh may contribute to the low number of pairs with double broods recorded in some years and the absence of double brooding in years of comparable phenology. This is the first published evidence of double brooding in the Yellow Warbler.
Estimating breeding bird survey trends and annual indices for Canada: how do the new hierarchical Bayesian estimates differ from previous estimates?
Authors: Smith Adam C. , Hudson Marie-Anne R. , Downes Constance , Francis Charles M.
Published: January 2017

Canadian data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) provide information on the population status and trends for over 300 species that regularly breed in Canada. Since the first assessments were made in the mid-1970s, both the dataset and the suite of statistical tools and techniques available to researchers have grown. As a result, Canadian BBS trend estimates have been derived from numerous statistical models. Because the BBS data are relatively complex, different statistical models can generate different trend and status estimates from the same data. In 2013, Environment Canada’s Canadian Wildlife Service began producing BBS status and trend estimates using a hierarchical Bayesian model. To give users of BBS trends and annual indices of abundance a better understanding of these estimates, we demonstrate and explain some of the similarities and differences between the new hierarchical Bayesian estimates and those from the previous model; discuss the philosophical and inferential consequences of estimating trends with the new model; and describe how the hierarchical Bayesian model differs from the model currently used in the United States. Overall, trends and annual indices from the new model are generally similar to estimates from the previous model; however, they are more precise, less variable among years, better represent the spatial variation across Canada in population status, and allow for more intuitive and useful assessments of uncertainty.
Impact of the 2012 drought on woody vegetation invading alvar grasslands in the Burnt Lands Alvar, eastern Ontario
Authors: Catling Paul M.
Published: January 2017

Counts of dead and living trees in open alvar indicated that the 2012 drought had a significant impact on the Burnt Lands Alvar in eastern Ontario, with mortality of woody species ranging from 10% to 100% at open alvar sites. The maximum age of dead trees suggested that the most recent drought of similar impact occurred more than 35 years ago, possibly in 1974. Some of the killed junipers were 87–90 years old. All dry periods indicated on a summer rainfall diagram may not be severe enough to kill woody vegetation, but a drought causing an average 50% kill of woody vegetation in open alvar may have occurred at least once every 30 years over the past century. Consequently the encroachment of woody species into alvar grassland appears not to be a threat to this habitat. Open alvar could have existed on the landscape as isolated occurrences since early postglacial times, if the climate fluctuated in the distant past as it has recently. With evidence for drought in a fluctuating climate to maintain the disjunct occurrences of midwestern plant and animal species, these occurrences may be considered as reliable indicators of a more continuous distribution of such species more than 10 000 years ago.
Grouseberry (Vaccinium scoparium Leiberg ex Coville) fruit production in forest openings in Banff National Park, Alberta
Authors: Pengelly Ian , Hamer David
Published: January 2017

Grouseberry (Vaccinium scoparium Leiberg ex Coville) is an abundant dwarf shrub in the understory of many areas of subalpine forest in Banff National Park and has the potential to produce fruit important for wildlife. However, the suppression and prevention of wildfires, which began in the early 1900s in the park, have reduced fire-dependent shrubland and open forest and increased the extent of closed, mature forest. Because canopy closure is typically associated with decreased fruit production by understory shrubs, the decline in fire disturbance may be reducing Grouseberry fruit production. To quantify this effect, we measured Grouseberry fruit production under various forest canopies at 10 sites in Banff during 2004–2012. We measured site openness by modeling photosynthetically active direct solar radiation (dPAR) adjusted for overshadowing by topography and coniferous foliage. We found a positive relation between Grouseberry fruit production and dPAR in 2006 and 2010–2012, but not in 2008 or 2009, the 2 years of lowest fruit production; data were lacking for 2004, 2005, and 2007. We also recorded high Grouseberry fruit densities beginning 5 years after fire removed the forest canopy in four prescribed burns conducted during 2001: fruit production was 3.3 to more than 20 times that in adjacent mature forests in 5 of the 6 years analyzed. This study shows the potential ecological benefits of both prescribed burns and wildfire in upper subalpine forests where Grouseberry is widespread, but fruit production is low under the forest canopy.
Lichens in four Newfoundland provincial parks: new provincial records
Authors: McCarthy John W. , Driscoll Kendra E. , Clayden Stephen R.
Published: January 2017

Fieldwork in J. T. Cheeseman, Sandbanks, Jipujijkuei Kuespem, and Fitzgerald’s Pond Provincial Parks, Newfoundland, has yielded 133 lichen taxa, of which 15 species are new to the province: Anisomeridium biforme, Athallia holocarpa, Caloplaca borealis, Cetrelia olivetorum, Cladonia cf. rappii, Gyalolechia xanthostigmoidea, Lecanora straminea, Lecidea brunneofusca, Micarea globulosella, Micarea prasina (s.l.), Miriquidica pycnocarpa, Pertusaria consocians, Toensbergia leucococca, Usnea fragilescens var. mollis, and Usnea silesiaca.
Cooperative hunting of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) by Gray Wolves (Canis lupus) in northern Quebec
Authors: Nichols Theodore C.
Published: January 2017

Gray Wolves (Canis lupus) are opportunistic predators that feed mainly on ungulates across their range. Incidental to a Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) leg banding program in northern Quebec, I observed what appeared to be a predation attempt by three wolves on a flock of 28 Canada Geese at a time when geese were just regaining their flight capability following their annual remige moult (4 August 2003). Although I was able to observe only a short period of this presumed predation attempt, it seemed apparent from the position of the wolves and geese that this was ambushing behaviour described by other authors with other prey species.
Additions to the boreal flora of the Northwest Territories with a preliminary vascular flora of Scotty Creek
Authors: Garon-Labrecque Marie-Ève , Léveillé-Bourret Étienne , Higgins Kellina , Sonnentag Oliver
Published: January 2017

We present the first survey of the vascular flora of Scotty Creek, a peatland-dominated watershed with discontinuous permafrost about 60 km south of Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories (NWT). Of the 140 vascular plant taxa found at Scotty Creek, two are additions to the boreal flora of NWT: Arethusa bulbosa (Dragon’s-mouth, Orchidaceae) and Carex pauciflora (Few-flowered Sedge, Cyperaceae). The occurrence of Arethusa bulbosa extends the known range of this species 724 km to the northwest, making this purportedly eastern American plant almost pan-Canadian. Two other major range extensions (> 200 km) are reported for Carex brunnescens subsp. sphaerostachya (Round-spike Brownish Sedge) and Platanthera dilatata var. dilatata (Tall White Bog Orchid). Furthermore, 15 other rare NWT species are reported, including three species known from a single other locality in the NWT. The flora of Scotty Creek is dominated by circumpolar (55%) and widespread North American (34%) elements. Despite the absence of exposed alkaline rocks and the dominance of deep organic soil almost throughout Scotty Creek, a number of limeindicator plants were found in lakes and minerotrophic wetlands.
White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) fawn risk from Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) predation during summer
Authors: Mech L. David , Morris Aaron , Barber-Meyer Shannon
Published: January 2017

Little is known about how often various prey animals are at risk of predation by Gray Wolves (Canis lupus). We used a system to monitor the presence during the day of two radio-collared Gray Wolves within 2 km of a radio-collared White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) with a fawn or fawns in August 2013 in the Superior National Forest of northeastern Minnesota. We concluded that the fawn or fawns were at risk of predation by at least one wolf at least daily.
Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) Attacks Waterbirds at Sea
Authors: Gaston Anthony J.
Published: January 2017

A Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) was twice observed hunting over the sea, close to shore, for small grebes (Podiceps spp.). Neither predation attempt was successful. Attacks on marine birds on the sea by goshawks are very rarely reported.
Nesting Behaviour and Reproductive Success of Sprague’s Pipit (Anthus spragueii) and Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus) during Pipeline Construction
Authors: Sutter Glenn C , Davis Stephen K , Skiffington Janice C , Keating Laura M , Pittaway Lois A
Published: January 2017

Industrial activity occurs in the breeding habitat of several species at risk, including the federally threatened Sprague’s Pipit (Anthus spragueii). To evaluate whether oil pipeline construction reduces the productivity of this species, we examined (a) noise levels in relation to distance from the pipeline right-of-way (ROW), (b) the extent to which noise and song frequencies overlapped, (c) the distribution of Sprague’s Pipit nests relative to the ROW, and (d) Sprague’s Pipit reproductive success during exposure to pipeline construction and clean-up activity. We also examined the songs, nest locations, and reproductive success of the Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus) for comparison. Study plots (400 × 400 m, n = 30) were established in grassland adjacent to the pipeline ROW or 600 m away from the ROW in similar habitat. Mean maximum noise levels during pipeline activity included frequencies that overlapped the song range of both species and were louder than the recommended 49 dB threshold up to 250 m from the ROW. Sprague’s Pipit nests were evenly distributed across close and distant plots, whereas Vesper Sparrow nests were more abundant within 50 m of the ROW. Sprague’s Pipit daily nest survival rate and the number of young surviving to day 8 both increased with increasing distance from the ROW; and Vesper Sparrow daily nest survival decreased slightly with exposure to pipeline activities. Our findings validate the restricted activity period and indicate that the recommended setback distance of 350 m is a reasonable guideline for pipeline projects.
Ancient Lake Maxima and Substrate-dependent Riverine Migration Have Defined the Range of the Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus) in Southern Ontario Following the Wisconsinan Glaciation
Authors: Mills Peter B , Hill Duncan J E
Published: January 2017

The Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus) is an entirely aquatic salamander whose geographic range is thus defined by immigration routes in watersheds that permit feasible travel. Significant barriers, such as large waterfalls, effectively bar this species from further colonization upstream. We compared the contemporary distribution of Mudpuppies in southern Ontario with varying post-glacial ancient lake maxima and riverine outlet-flow conditions. Topography does not appear to be a range-limiting factor, but the type of river grade (waterfalls versus riffles) does. The distribution of modern records of this species in Ontario aligns closely with maxima from the Nipissing phase occurring 4000–5000 years ago, leading us to suggest that this is when Mudpuppies invaded and proliferated in the Great Lakes Basin.
Climate Warming as an Explanation for the Recent Northward Range Extension of Two Dragonflies, Pachydiplax longipennis and Perithemis tenera, into the Ottawa Valley, Eastern Ontario
Authors: Catling Paul M
Published: January 2017

Climate warming is accepted as an explanation for the recent appearance of Blue Dasher, Pachydiplax longipennis (Burmeister, 1839), and Eastern Amberwing, Perithemis tenera (Say, 1839), in the Ottawa region, as this range expansion meets 6 criteria: (1) the climate in the newly occupied territory has warmed sufficiently to allow colonization; (2) a new range expectation based on the amount of climate warming is met; (3) other factors potentially promoting spread are excluded; (4) the possibility that range extension is a result of difficulty of observation and/or insufficient fieldwork in earlier times is excluded; (5) there is ample evidence for establishment; and (6) spread has been in the direction of the warmer territory or within it. By 2000, the mean daily temperature in the Ottawa region had increased by about 2°C since 1880 and about 1.1°C since 1960. This would allow new zonal boundaries and the prediction of expansion from a well-defined and long-occupied area into the Ottawa Valley. The two species entered this region in 2008–2012 and, subsequently, became well established.
Square-stalked St. John’s-wort, Hypericum tetrapterum, in Peel Region, Ontario: a New Non-native Vascular Plant Species for Eastern North America
Authors: Cecile Charles P , Oldham Michael J
Published: January 2017

The Eurasian Square-stalked St. John’s-wort (Hypericum tetrapterum Fr.: Hypericaceae) was found growing in an open Eastern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.) swamp in Caledon, Regional Municipality of Peel, Ontario. This is the first record for eastern North America; previous North American occurrences have been on the Pacific coast in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (1991), and in Wahkiakum County, Washington State, USA (2003).
Effect of starter culture addition on fatty acid profile, oxidative and sensory stability of traditional fermented sausage (Petrovská klobása)
Authors: Sojic Branislav , Dzinic Natalija , Tomovic Vladimir , Ikonic Predrag , Jokanovic Marija , Kravic Snezana , Tasic Tatjana , Skaljac Snezana
Published: January 2017

This work is concerned with the oxidative stability and sensory
characteristics of traditional fermented sausage Petrovsk? klob?sa, produced
with the addition of commercial starter culture (SC). Fatty acids profile,
thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS) values and sensory properties
of odor and taste have been determined at the end of drying and after 2 and 5
months of storage. The sum of saturated, unsaturated and polyunsaturated
fatty acids was not significantly different (P>0.05) in SC and control
sausage at the end of storage. After 5 months of storage TBARS value of SC
sausage amounted to 0.57 mg MDA/kg, and it was significantly lower (P<0.05)
compared to control (0.84 mg MDA/kg). Also, sensory properties of odor and
taste of SC sausage (3.66) were better in comparison to control (3.55). This
study demonstrated that the addition of starter culture can hinder lipid
oxidation and contribute to the preservation of desirable sensory
characteristics of fermented sausages during a long storage period.
Retraction: Osmotic dehydration of fish: Principal component analysis. APTEFF, 45 (2014) 45-53, DOI: 10.2298/APT1445045L
Authors: Editorial E
Published: January 2017

On the proposition of the Editorial Board and with the consent of the
authors, the paper entitled: OSMOTIC DEHYDRATION OF FISH: PRINCIPAL
COMPONENT ANALYSIS, by the authors: Biljana Lj. Loncar (n?e Curcic), Lato L.
Pezo, Ljubinko B. Levic, Vladimir S. Filipovic, Milica R. Nicetin, Violeta
M. Knezevic and Tatjana A. Kuljanin, published in 2014 (Vol. 45, pp. 45-53,
DOI: 10.2298/APT1445045L), is retracted because it is an autoplagiarism of
the paper of the authors B. L. Curcic, L. L Pezo, V. S. Filipovic, M.R.
Nicetin and V. Knezevic ?OSMOTIC TREATMENT OF FISH IN TWO DIFFERENT
SOLUTIONS - ARTIFICAL NEURAL NETWORK MODEL?, which was accepted for
publication on May 9th 2014 (DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.12275) and published in 2015
in the Journal of Food Processing and Preservation (Vol. 39, pp. 671-680).

 Link to the retracted article 10.2298/APT1445045L
Organic-inorganic membranes for filtration of corn distillery
Authors: Myronchuk Valeriy , Dzyazko Yuliya , Zmievskii Yurii , Ukrainets Anatoliy , Bildukevich Alexander , Kornienko Ludmila , Rozhdestvenskaya Ludmila , Palchik Alexey
Published: January 2017

Organic-inorganic membranes were obtained by modification of polymer
microfiltration membrane with inorganic ion-exchangers, which form secondary
porosity inside macroporous substrate (zirconium hydrophosphate) or
simultaneously in the macroporous substrate and active layer, depending of
the particle size (from ?50 nm up to several microns). Precipitation of the
inorganic constituent is considered from the point of view of
Ostwald-Freundlich equation. Such processes as pressing test in deionized
water and filtration of corn distillery at 1-6 bar were investigated.
Theoretical model allowing to establish fouling mechanism, was applied. It
was found that the particles both in the substrate and active layer prevent
fouling of the membrane with organics and provide rejection of colloidal
particles.
Characteristics of W/O emulsions containing polymeric emulsifier PEG 30-dipolyhydroxystearate
Authors: Milinkovic Jelena , Petrovic Lidija , Fraj Jadranka , Bucko Sandra , Katona Jaroslav
Published: January 2017

Water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions are dispersed systems which are often used in
the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries as products, or as carriers
of active substances. It is well known that they are very unstable, so that
selection of the emulsifier and properties of the oil and water phase are
main factors affecting their stability. The aim of this paper was to examine
the possibility of application of a lipophilic, polymeric emulsifier, PEG
30-dipolyhydroxystearate (CithrolTM DPHS), for stabilization of W/O
emulsions. Behaviour of the emulsifier at W/O interfaces was determined by
means of tensiometry. A series of emulsions were prepared with 20% (w/w) of
water and different types of oil. Droplet size, droplet size distribution,
viscosity, and sedimentation stability during 30 days of storage at room
temperature of the emulsions prepared with paraffin oil, olive oil, grape
seed oil, and medium-chain triglycerides, stabilized with 1% CithrolTM DPHS,
were determined. All investigated emulsions were stable for 30 days, except
the one prepared with paraffin oil. The results of this study confirmed that
PEG 30-dipolyhydroxylstearate is a good emulsifier and stabilizer of W/O
emulsions which contain different types of oil.
Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of polyphenolic compounds from coriander seeds using response surface methodology
Authors: Zekovic Zoran , Djurovic Sasa , Pavlic Branimir
Published: January 2017

Coriandrum sativum L. (coriander) seeds (CS) were used for preparation of
extracts with high content of biologically active compounds. In order to
optimize ultrasoundassisted extraction process, three levels and three
variables of Box-Behnken experimental design (BBD) in combination with
response surface methodology (RSM) were applied, yielding maximized total
phenolics (TP) and flavonoids (TF) content and antioxidant activity (IC50 and
EC50 values). Independent variables were temperature (40-80oC), extraction
time (40-80 min) and ultrasonic power (96-216 W). Experimental results were
fitted to a second-order polynomial model with multiple regression, while the
analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to assess the model fitness and
determine optimal conditions for TP (79.60oC, 49.20 min, 96.69 W), TF
(79.40oC, 43.60 min, 216.00 W), IC50 (80.00oC, 60.40 min, 216.00 W) and EC50
(78.40oC, 68.60 min, 214.80 W). On the basis of the obtained mathematical
models, three-dimensional surface plots were generated. The predicted values
for TP, TF, IC50 and EC50 were: 382.68 mg GAE/100 g CS, 216 mg CE/100 g CS,
0.03764 mg/mL and 0.1425 mg/mL, respectively.
The “Normalization” of Deviance: A Case Study on the Process Underlying the Adoption of Deviant Behavior
Authors: Courtois Cynthia , Gendron Yves
Published: January 2017

In 2011, the Québec government launched the Charbonneau Commission, a monumental public inquiry tasked with getting to the bottom of a major collusion and corruption scandal involving elected officials, municipal employees, and construction industry contractors. The scandal concerned the awarding of municipal contracts that led to a significant waste of public funds. Yet, at the time, all municipal sector organizations involved were regulated by several controls, particularly in the granting of public contracts. How could the situation deteriorate to the point where collusion became the “usual” way of managing public contracts, particularly in the City of Montréal? The objective of this article is to better understand how deviance became the “norm,” such that the social actors involved came to adopt a deviant identity rather than obeying socially accepted rules. Conceptually inspired by the work of Becker (1963), Foucault (1977), and Giddens (1991), this article is based on the in-depth testimonies of two key actors in the collusion scheme. Our aim is to better understand the process leading to the adoption of deviant behavior and the often illusory character of organizational and regulatory controls.
Professional Virtue Reinforcements: A Necessary Complement to Technological and Policy Reforms
Authors: Brown J. Owen , Marcum James A. , Stuebs Martin T.
Published: January 2017

Rapid advances in technology within accounting information systems (AIS) accompanied by an increase in information accessibility render organizations vulnerable to the misuse of confidential data. AIS professionals are uniquely equipped and positioned to address these information security risks and to strengthen the trust stakeholders and the public place in the AIS function. We contend that reforms to control and protect intelligence with improved systemic controls must be complemented with reforms to control and protect professional integrity. We propose a Systems Trust Model that elevates professional virtue as a fundamental and necessary control element that complements information technology governance and systemic controls. We then analyze the necessity and sufficiency of the trust model elements for creating and protecting system trust—regardless of additional opportunities and incentives present in new and evolving technologies in AIS. Implications for future research, AIS curriculum, and the AIS profession at large are discussed.