bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methylprednisolone pulse therapy for patients with moderately severe Graves' orbitopathy: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study
Authors: van Geest Rob J , Sasim Inna V , Koppeschaar Hans P F , Kalmann Rachel , Stravers Simone N , Bijlsma Ward R , Mourits Maarten P
Published: January 2008

Objective

To assess whether methylprednisolone (MP) pulse therapy is efficacious in the treatment of moderately severe Graves' orbitopathy (GO).

Design

Prospective, placebo (PL)-controlled, double-blind, randomized study.

Methods

Fifteen previously untreated patients with active, moderately severe GO participated in the study; 6 patients received MP and 9 patients a PL. Moderately severe disease was defined using the NOSPECS classification of clinical signs of GO . Activity was measured with the clinical activity score (CAS). A dose of 500 mg MP or only solvent was administered intravenously, over three consecutive days, in four cycles at 4 weekly intervals (6 g of MP in total). Qualitatively, a successful treatment outcome was defined as an improvement in one major and/or two minor criteria in the worst eye at week 48. The major criteria were: improvement in diplopia grade; improvement in eye movement; a decrease in CAS of three points. The minor criteria were: decrease of eyelid retraction; decrease of proptosis; improvement in grade of soft tissue swelling; a decrease in CAS of two points.

Results

The qualitative treatment outcome was successful at the end of the trial in five out of six (83%) patients receiving MP and in one out of nine (11%) patients given the PL (relative risk=7.5; (95% confidence interval 1.1–49.3), P=0.005). The treatment was well tolerated.

Conclusions

In spite of the small number of patients, a significant difference in outcome was observed between MP- and PL-treated patients. We conclude that MP pulse therapy appears to be an effective treatment for active, moderately severe GO.
Incidence and Characteristics of Arthritis in Norwegian Children: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Riise Øystein Rolandsen , Handeland Kai Samson , Cvancarova Milada , Wathne Karl-Olaf , Nakstad Britt , Abrahamsen Tore Gunnar , Kirkhus Eva , Flatø Berit
Published: January 2008

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this work was to assess the annual incidence of arthritis in children and describe early disease and patient characteristics, microbiologic features, and immunogenetic factors in children with different subgroups of childhood arthritis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS. A population-based multicenter study was performed in southeastern Norway between June 1, 2004, and May 31, 2005. The total population of children under 16 years of age was 255303. Physicians were asked to refer their patients with suspected arthritis to the local department of pediatrics or rheumatology. The children were assessed on the basis of clinical, radiologic, and laboratory examinations at inclusion and followed up at 6 weeks, 6 months, and thereafter as long as clinically indicated. A chart review was performed to identify patients with arthritis who had not been included prospectively.

RESULTS. The total annual incidence of arthritis was 71 per 100000 children. Transient arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, postinfectious arthritis, and infectious arthritis were found in 43, 14, 9, and 5 of 100000 children, respectively. The incidence was higher in children under the age of 8 years than in older children (107 vs 34 per 100000). Arthritis occurred more frequently in boys than in girls before the age of 8 years but not thereafter. The median age of onset was lower in children with infectious arthritis than in those with other types of arthritis. Monarthritis was less frequent in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis than in the other subgroups (64% vs 83%–100%). Ten percent of the patients had poststreptococcal reactive arthritis, and only 1 had enteropathic arthritis. Autoantibodies and the presence of HLA-B27 were associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

CONCLUSIONS. The annual incidence of childhood arthritis was 71 per 100000 children. We found several factors that may help in differentiating between subgroups of arthritis.
Adverse Events From Cough and Cold Medications in Children
Authors: Schaefer Melissa K. , Shehab Nadine , Cohen Adam L. , Budnitz Daniel S.
Published: January 2008

BACKGROUND. Adverse drug events in children from cough and cold medications have been identified as a public health issue with clinical and policy implications. Nationally representative morbidity data could be useful for targeting age-appropriate safety interventions.

OBJECTIVE. To describe emergency department visits for adverse drug events from cough and cold medications in children.

METHODS. Emergency department visits for adverse drug events attributed to cough and cold medications among children aged <12 years were identified from a nationally representative stratified probability sample of 63 US emergency departments from January 1, 2004, through December 31, 2005.

RESULTS. Annually, an estimated 7091 patients aged <12 years were treated in emergency departments for adverse drug events from cough and cold medications, accounting for 5.7% of emergency department visits for all medications in this age group. Most visits were for children aged 2 to 5 years (64%). Unsupervised ingestions accounted for 66% of estimated emergency department visits, which was significantly higher than unsupervised ingestions of other medications (47%), and most of these ingestions involved children aged 2 to 5 years (77%). Most children did not require admission or extended observation (93%).

CONCLUSIONS. Timely national surveillance data can help target education, enforcement, and engineering strategies for reducing adverse events from cough and cold medications among children. Engineering innovations could be particularly helpful in addressing unsupervised ingestions, which is the most frequent cause of adverse events. These innovations could be applicable to other children's medications.
Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycans and Microglia Prevent Migration and Integration of Grafted Müller Stem Cells into Degenerating Retina
Authors: Singhal Shweta , Lawrence Jean M. , Bhatia Bhairavi , Ellis James S. , Kwan Anthony S. , MacNeil Angus , Luthert Philip J. , Fawcett James W. , Perez Maria-Thereza , Khaw Peng T. , Limb G. Astrid
Published: January 2008

At present, there are severe limitations to the successful migration and integration of stem cells transplanted into the degenerated retina to restore visual function. This study investigated the potential role of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) and microglia in the migration of human Müller glia with neural stem cell characteristics following subretinal injection into the Lister hooded (LH) and Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat retinae. Neonate LH rat retina showed minimal baseline microglial accumulation (CD68-positive cells) that increased significantly 2 weeks after transplantation (p < .001), particularly in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) and inner plexiform layer. In contrast, nontransplanted 5-week-old RCS rat retina showed considerable baseline microglial accumulation in the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and photoreceptor outer segment debris zone (DZ) that further increased (p < .05) throughout the retina 2 weeks after transplantation. Marked deposition of the N-terminal fragment of CSPGs, as well as neurocan and versican, was observed in the DZ of 5-week-old RCS rat retinae, which contrasted with the limited expression of these proteins in the GCL of the adult and neonate LH rat retinae. Staining for CSPGs and CD68 revealed colocalization of these two molecules in cells infiltrating the ONL and DZ of the degenerating RCS rat retina. Enhanced immune suppression with oral prednisolone and intraperitoneal injections of indomethacin caused a reduction in the number of microglia but did not facilitate Müller stem cell migration. However, injection of cells with chondroitinase ABC combined with enhanced immune suppression caused a dramatic increase in the migration of Müller stem cells into all the retinal cell layers. These observations suggest that both microglia and CSPGs constitute a barrier for stem cell migration following transplantation into experimental models of retinal degeneration and that control of matrix deposition and the innate microglial response to neural retina degeneration may need to be addressed when translating cell-based therapies to treat human retinal disease.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Efficacy of lime-stabilised fly ash in expansive soils
Authors: Rao M. R. , Rao A. S. , Babu D. R.
Published: January 2008

The alternate swelling and shrinkage undergone by expansive clays due to moisture fluctuations causes substantial distress to structures built on such soils. Techniques such as sand cushions and ohesive nonswelling soil (CNS) cushions have been tried to arrest volume changes in these soils and hence prevent damage to structures. Sand cushions have been proved to be counterproductive. A CNS layer, though effective initially, became less effective after the first cycle of wetting and drying. Research carried out by the authors using a lime-stabilised fly ash cushion has shown that it is quite effective in arresting volume changes in expansive soils. A fly ash cushion, stabilise with 10% lime and with thickness equal to half that of the active zone in an expansive soil bed, educes heave by about 68% initially. With subsequent cycles of swelling and shrinkage the percent ge reduction in swelling is as much as 99·2%. Studies carried out on leaching have shown that only a small percentage of lime added to the fly ash leaches, even after five cycles of wetting and d ying. This shows the efficacy of the lime-stabilised fly ash cushion in minimising heave of expansive soil beds.
Predicting compaction of cohesionless soils using ANN
Authors: Abdel-Rahman A. H.
Published: January 2008

Compaction of soils is aimed at improving their mechanical properties to fulfil the requirements of earthwork projects. In this paper an artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict the two main compaction parameters: the maximum dry unit weight (γdry max) and the optimum moisture content (womc). The study was performed based on the results of modified Proctor tests (ASTM D 1557). Based on the ANN model, empirical equations were developed to predict the compaction characteristics of graded cohesionless soils. The predicted values using the ANN model and the empirical equations were compared with a set of laboratory measurements. A parametric study on the developed equations was performed to present the control parameters that set the values of γdry max and womc.
Analysis and comparison of displacement granular pile anchors
Authors: Madhav M. R. , Vidyaranya B. , Kumar V. S.
Published: January 2008

Granular piles can resist only compressive and shear loads owing to their inherent nature. By a simple modification of providing a pedestal/geogrid at the bottom and attaching a cable to the same, they are made to resist pullout/uplift forces. This paper presents an analysis of granular pile anchor (GPA), considering it and the in situ soil to behave linearly and the in situ ground to be semi-infinite. A parametric study presents results in the form of variations of normalised shear stress, displacement influence coefficient and axial uplift force with depth with relative stiffness factor. Two methods for the estimation of deformation moduli of the GPA and the in situ soil are proposed. Based on the estimated values of the moduli, the displacements of GPA were estimated and the results compared with test results of Kumar (2002). The predicted displacements compare well with the measured ones.
Testing coir geotextile drains for soft ground improvement
Authors: Beena K. S. , Babu K. K.
Published: January 2008

The results of an experimental investigation to explore the effectiveness of coir geotextile vertical drains for ground improvement are reported. The time settlement behaviour of clayey soil, as influenced by coir geotextile drains, is summarised and the construction and installation details are also discussed. Two types of coir drains, a circular type and a rectangular type, using two varieties of coir geotextiles were tested in three configurations, namely a single drain and triangular and rectangular patterns. It was observed that the time for consolidation was very much reduced due to the installation of coir drains irrespective of the type of coir geotextile used, type of coir drain and the layout of the drains. Furthermore, in addition to ease of construction these drains are eco-friendly and will not pose any environmental problems.
Constructed Wetland Habitat for American Avocet and Black‐Necked Stilt Foraging and Nesting
Authors: DAVIS DOUGLAS E. , HANSON CHARLES H. , HANSEN ROBERT B.
Published: January 2008

Abstract In 1994, a 117‐ha wetland was designed, constructed, and operated by the Tulare Lake Drainage District (TLDD), California, USA, to provide foraging and nesting habitat for American avocets (Recurvirostra americana) and black‐necked stilts (Himantopus mexicanus). The wetland was operated seasonally in compliance with regulatory requirements to compensate for impacts to stilts, avocets, and other wildlife exposed to elevated selenium concentrations, fluctuating water levels resulting in nest flooding, and high nest‐predation rates at the TLDD agricultural drainage evaporation basins. Water supply for the wetland was from low‐selenium (typically <2 μg/L) saline agricultural drainage water, although the facility also had capability to blend and use freshwater and saline supplies. Coincident with wetland construction, 2 evaporation basins totaling 1,174 ha were physically modified and operated to discourage their use by shorebirds. In the first year of wetland operation (1995), American avocet and black‐necked stilt nest construction at the wetland was 17.6 nests/ha. This compares to a preproject (1994) combined density of 1.9 nests/ha at the evaporation basins. From 1995 through 2004, annual nesting attempts by American avocets and black‐necked stilts at the wetland averaged 2,896 per year (24.8 nests/ha). American avocets and black‐necked stilts represented 91% of the nests observed at the wetland. Over the 10‐year monitoring period, nest success at the wetland averaged 82% for American avocets and 75% for black‐necked stilts. We estimated nest predation rates at the constructed wetland to be <1%. During the same period, American avocet and black‐necked stilt nesting at the evaporation basins declined from 2,266 in 1994 to 9 in 2004. The constructed wetland has proven to be effective in attracting and providing suitable nesting habitat for large numbers of avocets and stilts. Results of this long‐term study confirm the validity of management recommendations for American avocets and black‐necked stilts and suggest that agricultural drainage can be successfully managed to provide highly productive managed wetlands.
Using Fecal Glucocorticoids to Assess Stress Levels in Captive River Otters
Authors: ROTHSCHILD DEVON M. , SERFASS THOMAS L. , SEDDON WILLIAM L. , HEGDE LAXMAN , FRITZ R. SCOTT
Published: January 2008

Abstract Reintroduction projects often expose animals to a series of acute stressors that may cause chronic stress and lead to the stress response. The stress response results in the release of glucocorticoids that, when excessive, can cause detrimental effects to the animal. Glucocorticoids can be extracted from feces and quantified as an effective method for assessing stress levels. We collected scats from 10 river otters (Lontra canadensis; 3 from MD and 7 from NY, USA) held captive for the Pennsylvania River Otter Reintroduction Project (PRORP). We used these scats to verify the use of the Correlate‐EIATM Corticosterone Enzyme Immunoassay Kit (Assay Designs, Inc., Ann Arbor, MI) to evaluate stress levels in otters. We also determined trends in stress levels during the initial 10–12 days otters were in PRORP captivity, and compared glucocorticoid levels for 5 of the New York otters the morning before, the morning of, and the morning after veterinary examinations to determine if associated procedures (e.g., physical and chemical restraint) caused increased stress levels. Glucocorticoid concentrations declined from time 1 to time 2 for the 3 otters from Maryland (an average decline of about 6‐fold) and for 5 of 7 otters from New York. Among otters evaluated for stress associated with veterinary examinations, average glucocorticoid concentrations were increased the morning of and the morning after veterinary examinations from the day before the veterinary examinations. We demonstrated that fecal glucocorticoids are an effective method for assessing stress levels in otters and that PRORP's captive management program did not contribute to increasing stress during the 10–12‐day evaluation period. Fecal glucocorticoid assays could be used to evaluate stress levels of zoo or permanently captive otters, determine the most effective husbandry techniques for housing otters, and evaluate effects of both management practices and environmental conditions in the wild and in captivity.
Winter Fidelity and Apparent Survival of Lesser Snow Goose Populations in the Pacific Flyway
Authors: WILLIAMS CHRISTOPHER K. , SAMUEL MICHAEL D. , BARANYUK VASILY V. , COOCH EVAN G. , KRAEGE DON
Published: January 2008

Abstract The Beringia region of the Arctic contains 2 colonies of lesser snow geese (Chen caerulescens caerulescens) breeding on Wrangel Island, Russia, and Banks Island, Canada, and wintering in North America. The Wrangel Island population is composed of 2 subpopulations from a sympatric breeding colony but separate wintering areas, whereas the Banks Island population shares a sympatric wintering area in California, USA, with one of the Wrangel Island subpopulations. The Wrangel Island colony represents the last major snow goose population in Russia and has fluctuated considerably since 1970, whereas the Banks Island population has more than doubled. The reasons for these changes are unclear, but hypotheses include independent population demographics (survival and recruitment) and immigration and emigration among breeding or wintering populations. These demographic and movement patterns have important ecological and management implications for understanding goose population structure, harvest of admixed populations, and gene flow among populations with separate breeding or wintering areas. From 1993 to 1996, we neckbanded molting birds at their breeding colonies and resighted birds on the wintering grounds. We used multistate mark‐recapture models to evaluate apparent survival rates, resighting rates, winter fidelity, and potential exchange among these populations. We also compared the utility of face stain in Wrangel Island breeding geese as a predictor of their wintering area. Our results showed similar apparent survival rates between subpopulations of Wrangel Island snow geese and lower apparent survival, but higher emigration, for the Banks Island birds. Males had lower apparent survival than females, most likely due to differences in neckband loss. Transition between wintering areas was low (<3%), with equal movement between northern and southern wintering areas for Wrangel Island birds and little evidence of exchange between the Banks and northern Wrangel Island populations. Face staining was an unreliable indicator of wintering area. Our findings suggest that northern and southern Wrangel Island subpopulations should be considered a metapopulation in better understanding and managing Pacific Flyway lesser snow geese. Yet the absence of a strong population connection between Banks Island and Wrangel Island geese suggests that these breeding colonies can be managed as separate but overlapping populations. Additionally, winter population fidelity may be more important in lesser snow geese than in other species, and both breeding and wintering areas are important components of population management for sympatric wintering populations.
Building Hierarchical Models of Avian Distributions for the State of Georgia
Authors: HOWELL JAY E. , PETERSON JAMES T. , CONROY MICHAEL J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract To predict the distributions of breeding birds in the state of Georgia, USA, we built hierarchical models consisting of 4 levels of nested mapping units of decreasing area: 90,000 ha, 3,600 ha, 144 ha, and 5.76 ha. We used the Partners in Flight database of point counts to generate presence and absence data at locations across the state of Georgia for 9 avian species: Acadian flycatcher (Empidonax virescens), brown‐headed nuthatch (Sitta pusilla), Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus), indigo bunting (Passerina cyanea), northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), prairie warbler (Dendroica discolor), yellow‐billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus), white‐eyed vireo (Vireo griseus), and wood thrush (Hylocichla mustelina). At each location, we estimated hierarchical‐level‐specific habitat measurements using the Georgia GAP Analysis18 class land cover and other Geographic Information System sources. We created candidate, species‐specific occupancy models based on previously reported relationships, and fit these using Markov chain Monte Carlo procedures implemented in OpenBugs. We then created a confidence model set for each species based on Akaike's Information Criterion. We found hierarchical habitat relationships for all species. Three‐fold cross‐validation estimates of model accuracy indicated an average overall correct classification rate of 60.5%. Comparisons with existing Georgia GAP Analysis models indicated that our models were more accurate overall. Our results provide guidance to wildlife scientists and managers seeking predict avian occurrence as a function of local and landscape‐level habitat attributes.
Estimation of Black Bear Abundance Using a Discrete DNA Sampling Device
Authors: IMMELL DAVE , ANTHONY ROBERT G.
Published: January 2008

Abstract We developed a snare for collection of black bear (Ursus americanus) hair that obtained a unique hair sample at each snare site, improved the quantity of collected hair compared to barbed‐wire corrals, and was easy to deploy over a wide range of topographical features and habitat conditions. This device allowed us to implement intensive sampling methodology needed in mark‐recapture experiments with minimal effort. By improving the quantity of hair collected, we also lowered the potential for bear identification errors at the lab. During 2003–2004, bears in 2 study areas triggered snares 1,104 times, which resulted in the collection of 981 hair samples. Of the samples we collected, 79% (775) produced valid genetic data. In 2003, 454 samples identified 79 genetically distinct individuals, and 321 samples identified 86 genetically distinct individuals in 2004. Analysis of capture‐recapture data indicated that capture probabilities were affected by heterogeneity among individuals and behavioral responses, but showed little evidence of time effects. Consequently, we used the Pollock and Otto (1983) estimator for model Mbh to estimate abundance with reasonably good precision (CV: 12–14%). Density on the Steamboat and Toketee, Oregon, USA, study areas over the 2‐year period averaged 19 bears/100 km2 and 22 bears/100 km2, respectively. Average capture and recapture probabilities over the 2 years of the study were 30% and 63%, respectively, indicating a trap‐prone behavioral response. Knowledge of bear densities on the Steamboat and Toketee study areas will enable managers to set hunting quotas, advise land management agencies on habitat issues, and create a baseline database to assist in the long‐term monitoring of bear trends in a changing landscape.
Wolf Depredation on Domestic Animals in the Polish Carpathian Mountains
Authors: GULA ROMAN
Published: January 2008

Abstract As wolves (Canis lupus) recover in Poland, their depredation on domestic animals is increasing, as have conflicts between wolves and farmers. From 1998 to 2004, I investigated spatial and temporal patterns of 591 verified incidents of wolf depredation in the eastern part of the Polish Carpathian Mountains. The wolf population I surveyed covered an estimated range of 4,993 km2. Depredation occurred over 1,595 km2 of that area. Sheep accounted for 84.8% of domestic animals killed by wolves. Depredation on sheep and number of sheep farms attacked by wolves increased between 1998 and 2004 (r2 = 0.61, P = 0.04 and r2 = 0.89, P = 0.02, respectively). The number of wolf attacks on sheep farms in a given year were negatively correlated to red deer (Cervus elaphus) population numbers (R2 = 0.69, P = 0.02). The amount of depredation caused by each of the 4 monitored packs was best explained by farm density in their territories (R2 = 0.59, P = 0.004). Number of attacks recorded on farms was positively correlated to distance from the farm to the pack's den and rendezvous sites (R2 = 0.16, P = 0.04). Of depredation recorded in the 4 pack's territories I surveyed, 77% occurred in 4 farms with no or inadequate protection. I concluded that wolf depredation in the studied area is opportunistic. Wolf predation intensity is a function of decreasing abundance of red deer, the density of sheep farms, and proximity of farms to the summer activity centers of wolf packs, and it is facilitated by poor husbandry practices. These results can aid in preventing wolf depredation and provide a foundation for a wolf management plan.
Ecology and Translocation‐Aided Recovery of an Endangered Badger Population
Authors: KINLEY TREVOR A. , NEWHOUSE NANCY J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Southern British Columbia, Canada, is the northwestern range limit of the American badger (Taxidea taxus) and supports a nationally endangered subspecies. We initially investigated space‐use, diet, and demography in southeastern British Columbia to characterize range‐limit ecology. Resident badgers in the northern part (NP) of our study area were extirpated or nearly so during our study (λ = 0.7), whereas the southern (SP) badger population remained viable (λ = 1.2). This apparent difference in viability between NP and SP may have been confounded by timing because research occurred later in SP; litter size, number of Columbian ground squirrels (Spermophilus columbianus) consumed, and home range size were each correlated nearly equally to latitude and date of research, and survivorship was greater later in the study for both the NP and SP. Collectively, these factors indicated temporal, not just spatial, variability. Therefore, we translocated badgers into the NP to 1) determine whether the NP had lost its capacity to support badgers or had merely experienced the variability expected at a range limit and, if the latter, 2) initiate recovery. Translocated animals and their offspring had kit production equivalent to that of SP residents, adult survivorship intermediate between the NP and SP residents, and no confirmed kit mortality, with population growth projected (λ = 1.3). Diet of translocated individuals was similar to that of residents. Home ranges of translocated females were intermediate between the 2 resident groups, and home ranges of translocated males were not different than either resident group. Juvenile dispersal dates and distances were similar to those of residents for each sex. Our results were consistent with the extirpation of the NP being driven by temporally variable conditions or the effect of random events expected at range limits. The extirpation of NP did not appear to have been primarily due to any permanent loss of the NP's capacity to support badgers. At 3.5 years after starting translocations, badgers remained in the NP within an apparently growing population. We found translocation to be a useful diagnostic and conservation tool for badgers at their northern limit. Its utility may extend to countering the fluctuations typical of other rare, range‐limit species.
Adverse Effects of Capture and Handling Little Bustard
Authors: PONJOAN ANNA , BOTA GERARD , DE LA MORENA ELADIO L. GARCÍA , MORALES MANUEL B. , WOLFF AXEL , MARCO IGNASI , MAÑOSA SANTI
Published: January 2008

Abstract Capturing wild animals for research or conservation purposes may cause some adverse effects, which is only acceptable if these are outweighed by conservation benefits. We used information from 3 on‐going telemetry studies on the endangered little bustard (Tetrax tetrax) in Western Europe to evaluate the risk factors associated with capture and handling. Of 151 telemetered birds, 23 (15.2%) exhibited impaired mobility and coordination after release, probably related to the occurrence of capture myopathy. Among the 23 impaired birds, 10 (43.5%) died before recovering normal mobility (6.6% of all birds captured). Logistic regression analyses identified longer handling time, longer restraint time, use of cannon nets, and capture of juveniles as inducing factors for these disorders. We conclude that little bustard is fairly susceptible to suffering ataxia and paresia after release as a result of restraint associated with capture and manipulation. Researchers can reduce this risk by keeping handling and restraint time below 10–20 minutes, particularly when using cannon nets or when capturing juveniles.
Greater Sage‐Grouse Winter Habitat Selection and Energy Development
Authors: DOHERTY KEVIN E. , NAUGLE DAVID E. , WALKER BRETT L. , GRAHAM JON M.
Published: January 2008

AbstractRecent energy development has resulted in rapid and large‐scale changes to western shrub‐steppe ecosystems without a complete understanding of its potential impacts on wildlife populations. We modeled winter habitat use by female greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) in the Powder River Basin (PRB) of Wyoming and Montana, USA, to 1) identify landscape features that influenced sage‐grouse habitat selection, 2) assess the scale at which selection occurred, 3) spatially depict winter habitat quality in a Geographic Information System, and 4) assess the effect of coal‐bed natural gas (CBNG) development on winter habitat selection. We developed a model of winter habitat selection based on 435 aerial relocations of 200 radiomarked female sage‐grouse obtained during the winters of 2005 and 2006. Percent sagebrush (Artemisiaspp.) cover on the landscape was an important predictor of use by sage‐grouse in winter. The strength of habitat selection between sage‐grouse and sagebrush was strongest at a 4‐km2scale. Sage‐grouse avoided coniferous habitats at a 0.65‐km2scale and riparian areas at a 4‐km2scale. A roughness index showed that sage‐grouse selected gentle topography in winter. After controlling for vegetation and topography, the addition of a variable that quantified the density of CBNG wells within 4 km2improved model fit by 6.66 Akaike's Information Criterion points (Akaike wt = 0.965). The odds ratio for each additional well in a 4‐km2area (0.877; 95% CI = 0.834‐ 0.923) indicated that sage‐grouse avoid CBNG development in otherwise suitable winter habitat. Sage‐grouse were 1.3 times more likely to occupy sagebrush habitats that lacked CBNG wells within a 4‐km2area, compared to those that had the maximum density of 12.3 wells per 4 km2allowed on federal lands. We validated the model with 74 locations from 74 radiomarked individuals obtained during the winters of 2004 and 2007. This winter habitat model based on vegetation, topography, and CBNG avoidance was highly predictive (validationR2= 0.984). Our spatially explicit model can be used to identify areas that provide the best remaining habitat for wintering sage‐grouse in the PRB to mitigate impacts of energy development.
Behavioral Responses of Bats to Operating Wind Turbines
Authors: HORN JASON W. , ARNETT EDWARD B. , KUNZ THOMAS H.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Wind power is one of the fastest growing sectors of the energy industry. Recent studies have reported large numbers of migratory tree‐roosting bats being killed at utility‐scale wind power facilities, especially in the eastern United States. We used thermal infrared (TIR) cameras to assess the flight behavior of bats at wind turbines because this technology makes it possible to observe the nocturnal behavior of bats and birds independently of supplemental light sources. We conducted this study at the Mountaineer Wind Energy Center in Tucker County, West Virginia, USA, where hundreds of migratory tree bats have been found injured or dead beneath wind turbines. We recorded nightly 9‐hour sessions of TIR video of operating turbines from which we assessed altitude, direction, and types of flight maneuvers of bats, birds, and insects. We observed bats actively foraging near operating turbines, rather than simply passing through turbine sites. Our results indicate that bats 1) approached both rotating and nonrotating blades, 2) followed or were trapped in blade‐tip vortices, 3) investigated the various parts of the turbine with repeated fly‐bys, and 4) were struck directly by rotating blades. Blade rotational speed was a significant negative predictor of collisions with turbine blades, suggesting that bats may be at higher risk of fatality on nights with low wind speeds.
A Hierarchical Model for Estimating Change in American Woodcock Populations
Authors: SAUER JOHN R. , LINK WILLIAM A. , KENDALL WILLIAM L. , KELLEY JAMES R. , NIVEN DANIEL K.
Published: January 2008

Abstract The Singing‐Ground Survey (SGS) is a primary source of information on population change for American woodcock (Scolopax minor). We analyzed the SGS using a hierarchical log‐linear model and compared the estimates of change and annual indices of abundance to a route regression analysis of SGS data. We also grouped SGS routes into Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) and estimated population change and annual indices using BCRs within states and provinces as strata. Based on the hierarchical model–based estimates, we concluded that woodcock populations were declining in North America between 1968 and 2006 (trend = −0.9%/yr, 95% credible interval: −1.2, −0.5). Singing‐Ground Survey results are generally similar between analytical approaches, but the hierarchical model has several important advantages over the route regression. Hierarchical models better accommodate changes in survey efficiency over time and space by treating strata, years, and observers as random effects in the context of a log‐linear model, providing trend estimates that are derived directly from the annual indices. We also conducted a hierarchical model analysis of woodcock data from the Christmas Bird Count and the North American Breeding Bird Survey. All surveys showed general consistency in patterns of population change, but the SGS had the shortest credible intervals. We suggest that population management and conservation planning for woodcock involving interpretation of the SGS use estimates provided by the hierarchical model.
Impacts of El Niño‐Southern Oscillation Events on the Distribution of Wintering Raptors
Authors: KIM DANIEL H. , SLACK R. DOUGLAS , CHAVEZ‐RAMIREZ FELIPE
Published: January 2008

Abstract We report the effects of El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events on the distribution and abundance of 3 raptor species at continental, regional, and landscape scales. We correlated values from the southern oscillation index (SOI), an index of ENSO phase and strength, with Christmas Bird Count data over a 30‐year period. We investigated the relationship between the SOI and winter raptor distributions at 3 spatial scales: continental (central United States), regional (TX, USA), and landscape (3 roadside transects within TX). At the continental scale, ENSO events resulted in regional shifts for American kestrel (Falco sparverius), northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), and red‐tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) winter abundances. As expected, these shifts were northward during El Niño (warm) winters, and southward for red‐tailed hawks and northern harriers during La Niña (cold) winters. Within Texas, northern harrier distributions shifted towards arid west Texas during wet El Niño winters but were restricted to mesic coastal Texas during dry La Niña winters. Red‐tailed hawk abundance increased in eastern Texas during La Niña winters responding to cooler than normal temperatures throughout the northern Midwest. Data from local roadside transects over a 3‐year period encompassing 2 El Niño winters and one La Niña winter supported the abundance patterns revealed by continental and regional data, and added evidence that fluctuations in winter abundances result from demographic pulses as well as spatial shifts for wintering populations. This study underscores the need for long‐term monitoring at both local and regional spatial scales in order to detect changes in continental populations. Short‐term or local studies would have erroneously assumed local population declines or increases associated with ENSO events, rather than facultative movements or demographic pulses supported by this study.
Fox Squirrel Survival in Urban and Rural Environments
Authors: MCCLEERY ROBERT A. , LOPEZ ROEL R. , SILVY NOVA J. , GALLANT DANIEL L.
Published: January 2008

Abstract A number of studies on mammalian species that have adapted to urban areas suggest survival may be higher for urban populations than rural populations. We examined differences in fatalities between an urban and rural population of fox squirrels (Sciurus niger). We radiocollared (n = 50 rural, n = 78 urban) fox squirrels during approximately 2 years. We found monthly survival of rural fox squirrels (Ŝ = 0.936) was lower than urban fox squirrels (Ŝ = 0.976) over the same 12‐month period. Nonetheless, when comparing a 24‐month period of survival data on urban squirrels with an 18‐month period on the rural squirrels (periods overlapped for 12 months), survival rates were more similar between urban (Ŝ = 0.938) and rural squirrels (Ŝ = 0.945). Our data suggest that sex and season may influence survival of urban squirrels and not rural squirrels. We also found that cause of fatalities differed between the urban and rural squirrels, with >60% of fatalities on the rural site caused by predation. In contrast, <5% of the fatalities on the urban site were caused by predation and >60% of urban fox squirrel fatalities were caused by motor vehicle collisions. This study illustrates the need to advance our ability to understand, predict, and mitigate effects of urbanization on wildlife resources.
Habitat Use by Migrant Shorebirds in Saline Lakes of the Southern Great Plains
Authors: ANDREI ADRIAN E. , SMITH LOREN M. , HAUKOS DAVID A. , SURLES JAMES G.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Shorebirds migrating through the Southern Great Plains of North America use saline lakes as stopovers to rest and replenish energy reserves. To understand how availability of invertebrates, salinity, freshwater springs, vegetation, and water influence the value of saline lakes as migration stopovers, we compared lakes used and not used by migrant shorebirds. Shorebirds used lakes that had freshwater springs, mudflats and standing water, sparse vegetation (≤1% cover), low to moderate salinities (x = 30.87 g/L), and mean invertebrate biomass of 0.79 g/m2. Lakes that were not used were generally dry or had hypersaline water (x = 82.56 g/L), lacked flowing springs and vegetation, and had few or no invertebrates (x = 0.007 g/m2). Our results suggest that reduced spring flows and increased salinity negatively affect availability of shorebird habitats and aquatic invertebrates. We recommend preservation of the freshwater springs discharging in the saline lakes. Because the springs are discharged from the Ogallala aquifer, which is recharged through the playa wetlands, the entire complex of wetlands in the Great Plains and the Ogallala aquifer should be managed as an integral system.
Ways of Learning: Observational Studies Versus Experiments
Authors: SHAFFER TERRY L. , JOHNSON DOUGLAS H.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Manipulative experimentation that features random assignment of treatments, replication, and controls is an effective way to determine causal relationships. Wildlife ecologists, however, often must take a more passive approach to investigating causality. Their observational studies lack one or more of the 3 cornerstones of experimentation: controls, randomization, and replication. Although an observational study can be analyzed similarly to an experiment, one is less certain that the presumed treatment actually caused the observed response. Because the investigator does not actively manipulate the system, the chance that something other than the treatment caused the observed results is increased. We reviewed observational studies and contrasted them with experiments and, to a lesser extent, sample surveys. We identified features that distinguish each method of learning and illustrate or discuss some complications that may arise when analyzing results of observational studies. Findings from observational studies are prone to bias. Investigators can reduce the chance of reaching erroneous conclusions by formulating a priori hypotheses that can be pursued multiple ways and by evaluating the sensitivity of study conclusions to biases of various magnitudes. In the end, however, professional judgment that considers all available evidence is necessary to render a decision regarding causality based on observational studies. (JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT 72(1):4–13; 2008)
Statistical Modeling of Observational Data With Spatial Dependencies
Authors: CHRISTMAN MARY C.
Published: January 2008

AbstractI provide a brief introduction to the concept of spatial autocorrelation and its incorporation into regression‐type models. Spatial autocorrelation occurs when the response variable is correlated with itself at other locations in the region of interest. The autocorrelation usually takes a specific form where observations close in space are more correlated than those farther apart, and the rate of decay of the correlation is a function of the distance separating 2 locations. I present 2 commonly used models: 1) geostatistical modeling in which data are collected at points in the study region and 2) conditional autoregression (lattice) models in which data are aggregated over small nonoverlapping sub‐areas of the study region. I also describe incorporation of explanatory covariates, such as habitat or physico‐chemical attributes. I emphasize frequentist methods, but I briefly describe Bayesian approaches. I also provide some advantages, such as obtaining correct standard errors for estimators, and disadvantages, such as requirements for larger sample sizes, of incorporating spatial autocorrelation into the modeling effort. This information can aid researchers in designing and analyzing models of the relationships between species distributions and habitat. As a result, more informative models can be developed which further aid in management of wildlife.
Combining Breeding Bird Survey and Christmas Bird Count Data to Evaluate Seasonal Components of Population Change in Northern Bobwhite
Authors: LINK WILLIAM A. , SAUER JOHN R. , NIVEN DANIEL K.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Annual surveys of wildlife populations provide information about annual rates of change in populations but provide no information about when such changes occur. However, by combining data from 2 annual surveys, conducted in different parts of the year, seasonal components of population change can be estimated. We describe a hierarchical model for simultaneous analysis of 2 continent‐scale monitoring programs. The Christmas Bird Count is an early winter survey, whereas the North American Breeding Bird Survey is conducted in June. Combining information from these surveys permits estimation of seasonal population variance components and improves estimation of long‐term population trends. The composite analysis also controls for survey‐specific sampling effects. We applied the model to estimation of population change in northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus). Over the interval 1969–2004, bobwhite populations declined, with trend estimate of −3.56% per year (95% CI = [−3.80%, −3.32%]) in the surveyed portion of their range. Our analysis of seasonal population variance components indicated that northern bobwhite populations changed more in the winter and spring portion of the year than in the summer and fall portion of the year. (JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT 72(1):44–51; 2008)
An Examination of the Comprehensiveness of Corporate Internet Reporting Provided by London-Listed Companies
Authors: Abdelsalam Omneya H. , Bryant Stephanie M. , Street Donna L.
Published: January 2008

Recent changes in the regulatory environment of the London Stock Exchange are aimed at prohibiting selective disclosure and enhancing the credibility of reporting. Using an innovative 143-item disclosure checklist, we examine corporate Internet reporting (CIR) comprehensiveness and its determinants within this new regulatory environment. We also extend the literature linking corporate governance measures to CIR. Our findings indicate that despite this new regulatory environment, there is considerable room for improvement in CIR by London-listed companies. For example, our sample companies provide only 58 percent and 70 percent, respectively, of the credibility and usability items assessed by our comprehensiveness index. After controlling for size, profitability, industry, and high growth/intangibles, we find the CIR comprehensiveness of London-listed companies is associated with analyst following, director holding, director independence, and CEO duality. Because prior research indicates the U.K. leads Europe in Internet reporting, our results may shed light on how CIR will evolve throughout Europe.
Clinical Relevance of Non-HDL Cholesterol in Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Peters Anne L.
Published: January 2008

IN BRIEF

Patients with type 2 diabetes have high rates of cardiovascular disease(CVD), much of which may be preventable with appropriate treatment of lipid abnormalities. Diabetic dyslipidemia most commonly manifests as elevated triglycerides and low levels of HDL cholesterol, with a predominance of small,dense LDL particles amid relatively normal LDL cholesterol levels. In diabetic patients, non-HDL cholesterol may be a stronger predictor of CVD than LDL cholesterol or triglycerides because it correlates highly with atherogenic lipoproteins. Target goals for LDL and non-HDL cholesterol in patients with diabetes are < 100 and < 130 mg/dl, respectively. Failure to consider the importance of non-HDL cholesterol in type 2 diabetes may result in undertreatment of patients with diabetes.
β-Endorphin in pressor response to hyperventilation in elderly patients with essential and secondary hypertension
Authors: Fontana Fiorella , Bernardi Pasquale , Pizzi Carmine , Toro Rosanna , Spampinato Santi
Published: January 2008

It has been observed that a distinct blood pressure (BP) response to prolonged and forced hyperventilation in adult patients with essential hypertension is associated with significant changes in plasma catecholamine and β-endorphin levels. This paper investigated whether hemodynamic and neuro-endocrine responses to hyperventilation in elderly patients with essential hypertension (n = 39, mean age 81 ± 3 years) differ from those in elderly patients with secondary hypertension (isolated systolic hypertension, bilateral chronic nephropathy, nephroangiosclerosis, diabetic nephropathy and hyperparathyroidism) (n = 39, mean age 80 ± 1 years). Plasma β-endorphin levels were normal in patients with essential hypertension and increased in patients with secondary hypertension. Plasma norepinephrine levels were normal in both populations. Hyperventilation decreased BP and norepinephrine levels and increased β-endorphin levels in essential hypertensive patients, whereas it did not significantly change BP or neuro-hormonal levels in secondary hypertensive patients. Hierarchical cluster analysis based on BP response to hyperventilation disclosed a sub-group of essential hypertensive patients with the highest basal levels of norepinephrine and the lowest β-endorphin levels, in whom the BP decrease following hyperventilation was correlated with the decrease in norepinephrine and increase in β-endorphin levels. This suggests that b-endorphin may be involved in modulating sympatho-adrenergic activity in elderly patients with essential hypertension.