bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hernia of the swim bladder (aerocystocele) with concurrent mycotic granulomatous inflammation and swim bladder carcinoma in a wild mullet (Mugil cephalus)
Authors: Sirri Rubina , Bianco Carlo , Zuccaro Gaetano , Turba Maria Elena , Mandrioli Luciana
Published: October 2016

We describe a hernia of the swim bladder, with a concurrent mycotic granulomatous inflammation, and carcinoma of the swim bladder in a wild mullet ( Mugil cephalus) referred for an exophytic dorsal mass. Grossly, the mass was white, soft, and composed of multiple cystic gas-containing chambers connected by a funnel-shaped tissue segment to the coelomic swim bladder. Histologically, the mass was characterized by cysts of variable size, multifocally contiguous with the subepithelial rete mirabile, supported by abundant fibrous tissue. The skin covering the herniated swim bladder was focally ulcerated and replaced by abundant granulation tissue in which multiple scattered granulomas centered on pigmented fungal hyphae were observed. These granulomas were also seen in the remaining coelomic portion of the swim bladder as well as in the spleen, perivisceral pancreas, and peritoneal adipose tissue; the fungus was molecularly identified as Cladosporium spp. Focally, arising from the herniated swim bladder epithelium, an unencapsulated poorly demarcated, moderately cellular neoplasm, composed of islands, lobules, and acini of neoplastic epithelium, was found.
Neoplasia in 125 donkeys (Equus asinus)
Authors: Davis Corrine R. , Valentine Beth A. , Gordon Emma , McDonough Sean P. , Schaffer Paula A. , Allen Andrew L. , Pesavento Patricia
Published: October 2016

A diagnosis of neoplasia was noted in 125 of 357 donkeys (35%) in our review of medical records from 5 veterinary schools in the United States and Canada. Equine sarcoid was the most common tumor in our study, accounting for 72% of all tumors and 82% of cutaneous tumors. Soft-tissue sarcomas were the second most common skin tumors. All other types of neoplasia were rare. Important differences in the occurrence of neoplasia in donkeys compared to horses included the rarity or absence of squamous cell carcinoma in any organ system and gray horse melanoma. Lymphosarcoma, the most common malignant tumor in horses, appears to be very rare in donkeys. We report several tumors in donkeys including melanocytoma, peripheral nerve sheath tumor, and gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Our data demonstrate commonalities as well as differences in neoplastic diseases of donkeys and horses. Understanding differences in carcinogenesis among these 2 closely related species can inform researchers pursuing pathogenic mechanisms of equine disease and inform veterinary diagnosticians regarding tumor prevalence.
Intramedullary Nailing and External Ring Fixation for Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis in Charcot Arthropathy
Authors: Richman James , Cota Adam , Weinfeld Steven
Published: October 2016

Background:

Surgical strategies to address deformities of the ankle and hindfoot in patients with Charcot arthropathy include the use of retrograde intramedullary nails and ring fixators. The literature has not shown superiority of one technique over the other. This study presents a single surgeon’s case series of Charcot arthropathy patients treated with either a ring fixator or retrograde intramedullary nail to achieve tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective analysis of 27 consecutive patients with Charcot arthropathy who underwent a tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using either a retrograde intramedullary (IM) nail (n = 16 patients) or a ring fixator (RF) (n = 11 patients) by a single surgeon. We report the rates of limb salvage complications requiring secondary surgery and fusion in both groups. The patient demographics and presence of medical comorbidities known to increase the risk of surgical complications were similar between groups. The mean duration of follow-up for the retrograde nail group was 3.6 years and 2.2 years for the ring fixator group.

Results:

The mean time to discharge from the hospital after the index surgical procedure was 2.7 days for the IM group and 4.6 days for the RF group. For the patients treated with a ring fixator, the mean time to removal of the frame after the initial application was 13.3 ± 1.8 weeks. The limb salvage rate for the RF group was 9 of 11 patients whereas it was 15 of 16 in the IM group. Complications including deep infection, hardware failure, and symptomatic nonunion requiring revision surgery were common in the IM group, with 11 of 16 patients requiring further surgery. Seven patients in the IM group required removal of the implant at a mean of 117.2 weeks after the index procedure because of the development of deep infection or nail cutout. In the RF group, only 1 patient required revision surgery. Fusion rates were similar between both groups, with 10 of 16 patients fusing in the IM group and 7 of 11 in the RF group.

Conclusion:

Use of a retrograde intramedullary rod or ring fixator resulted in high rates of successful limb salvage when used for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis in patients with Charcot arthropathy. However, in this study, the need for revision surgery was more frequent in the retrograde nail group compared to the ring fixator group.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.
Feeling Higher Aspects in One’s Life and Being Involved With Them “With One’s (Whole) Self or ‘I’”
Authors: Witz Klaus G.
Published: October 2016

In the “Consciousness in the Study of Human Life and Experience” articles, longer passages in interviews where the participant sincerely tries to make a sympathetic investigator understand her are considered as showing part of the participant’s current consciousness in her life (part of her “consciousness-and-‘I’”). The present article argues that a critical element in such passages is that the participant is involved in trying to make herself understood “with her (whole) ‘I,’” “her whole self.” This represents a particular kind of (spontaneous, nonverbal, “inner”) engagement of the single consciousness-and-“I.” The article argues using an example that “being involved with one’s self, one’s ‘I’” in the higher aspects that one is pursuing in one’s life is a fundamental type of phenomenon/experienced reality which is sui generis, and represents in the unfolding of the person a factor in its own right.
Other Places and the Anthropology of Ourselves
Authors: Brady Ivan
Published: October 2016

Asking for personal accounts of fieldwork forces a consideration of two important issues in anthropology: author-presence in ethnographic and analytic accounts and forms of ethnographic representation. Addressing both, I offer here an historical overview of my 1960s and 1970s fieldwork in the Pacific Islands country of Tuvalu in relation to (a) what I tried to accomplish at the time; (b) what actually worked out, what did not, and why; (c) what I have learned in the long run about the prospects of succeeding in those pursuits, including a sample of principles governing such narratives and how attention to them might facilitate the development of more robust and satisfying ethnographic accounts, especially when bound up in a mixed genre form I describe as an analytic memoir; and (d) comparisons with the fieldwork of Mariko Toshida, an award-winning current-generation researcher in the area.
An Emerging Risk Factor of Sexual Abuse: The Use of Smartphone Dating Applications
Authors: Choi Edmond Pui Hang , Wong Janet Yuen Ha , Fong Daniel Yee Tak
Published: October 2016

Smartphone dating applications (apps) have become popular in recent years. However, the association between the use of dating apps and sexual abuse remains uninvestigated. The aim of this study was to examine the association between using dating apps and the sexual abuse of males and females. Six hundred sixty-six participants were recruited in four universities in Hong Kong in 2015. Overall, the 1-year prevalence of sexual abuse was 12.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: [9.8, 14.9]) and the lifetime prevalence was 14.2% (95% CI: [11.5, 16.9]). Multiple logistic regressions found that users of dating apps (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.13, p < .05) were more likely to be sexually abused in the past year than non-users. Using dating apps was also a risk factor of lifetime sexual abuse (aOR: 1.83, p < .05). Our findings suggest that app users should deserve more attention in risk assessment, risk stratification, and sexual abuse prevention programs.
Legitimizing Corporate (Un) Sustainability: A Case Study of Passive SMEs
Authors: Chassé Sonia , Boiral Olivier
Published: October 2016

The objective of this article is to explore how decision makers in small- and medium-sized enterprises explain their lack of commitment to sustainability through various justifications. These justifications are intended to rationalize and legitimize, through socially acceptable arguments, the absence of substantial actions in this area. A case study based on 33 interviews in nine Canadian small- and medium-sized enterprises showed that managers rationalize their lack of commitment to sustainability in several different ways. These can be grouped into three main types of justifications: prioritization of economic survival, looking for a scapegoat, and denial and minimization (denial of negative impacts, minimization of sustainability issues, self-proclaimed sustainability). The study contributes to bridge the gap between the literatures on neutralization theory, resistance to institutional pressures, and corporate unsustainability. It also sheds further light on the reasons underlying the lack of commitment to sustainable development and how managers justify this to themselves and others.
The impact of multiple sclerosis severity on health state utility values: Evidence from Australia
Authors: Ahmad Hasnat , Taylor Bruce V , van der Mei Ingrid , Colman Sam , O’Leary Beth A , Breslin Monique , Palmer Andrew J
Published: October 2016

Background:

The measurement of health state utility values (HSUVs) for a representative sample of Australian people with multiple sclerosis (MS) has not previously been performed.

Objectives:

Our main aim was to quantify the HSUVs for different levels of disease severities in Australian people with MS.

Method:

HSUVs were calculated by employing a ‘judgement-based’ method that essentially creates EQ-5D-3L profiles based on WHOQOL-100 responses and then applying utility weights to each level in each dimension. A stepwise linear regression was used to evaluate the relationship between HSUVs and disease severity, classified as mild (Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) levels: 0–3.5), moderate (EDSS levels: 4–6) and severe (EDSS levels: 6.5–9.5).

Results:

Mean HSUV for all people with MS was 0.53 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.52–0.54). Utility decreased with increasing disease severity: 0.61 (95% CI: 0.60–0.62), 0.51 (95% CI: 0.50–0.52) and 0.40 (95% CI: 0.38–0.43) for mild, moderate and severe disease, respectively. Adjusted differences in mean HSUV between the three severity groups were statistically significant.

Conclusion:

For the first time in Australia, we have quantified the impact of increasing severity of MS on health utility of people with MS. The HSUVs we have generated will be useful in further health economic analyses of interventions that slow progression of MS.
Reimbursement changes and drug switching: are severe patients more affected?
Authors: Cheng Shou-Hsia , Chen Chi-Chen , Kuo Hung-Chih , Wang Chi-Chuan
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To examine the long-term effects of drug reimbursement adjustments on drug-switching decisions and to investigate whether patients with complicated or severe conditions are more affected.

Methods

A population-based, longitudinal study with a before-and-after design. Analysis of 141,703 patients with type 2 diabetes covered by the universal health insurance program in Taiwan. Observation of five 6-month phases before and after a drug reimbursement adjustment implemented in October 2009. Drug switching was defined as a brand change within the same anatomical therapeutic chemical group between two consecutive physician visits. Generalized estimating equations were employed to control for the random subject effect.

Results

The drug-switching rates in the five phases were 10.85% and 13.71% before implementation and 31.53%, 28.29% and 15.61% after implementation. Results from the regression model revealed a higher likelihood of receiving switched drugs in phases 3, 4 and 5, with odds ratios of 3.16, 2.72 and 1.44 (with 95% confidence interval 3.04–3.29, 2.61–2.84 and 1.38–1.51), respectively, compared with phase 1. Patients with complicated or severe conditions were more likely to have their drugs switched after the reimbursement adjustment.

Conclusions

The drug reimbursement adjustment under the health insurance program resulted in an increase in drug-switching decisions, and patients were not exempt from medication switching regardless of the complications or the severity level of their illness.
Social media, porous boundaries, and the development of online political engagement among young citizens
Authors: Ekström Mats , Shehata Adam
Published: October 2016

Concepts such as “porous boundaries” and “low thresholds” appear frequently in the literature on online political engagement. Social media, it is argued, are characterized by less distinct boundaries between non-political and political activities, thereby lowering thresholds into political engagement. This argument is analyzed and empirically tested. Relying on a five-wave panel study among Swedish adolescents, we provide unique insights into the levels and development of political engagement in online political information, interaction, production, and collective action. In sum, the findings show that, for a majority, social interaction in social media coincides with engagement in political information and interaction, while few are engaged in production and collective action. Second, the study provides limited support to the idea that low thresholds in social media promote patterns of tune-in, tune-out political engagement over time. Finally, social interaction in social media has clear effects on online political engagement beyond political socialization and motivation factors.
Sharing deep history as digital knowledge: An ontology of the Sq’éwlets website project
Authors: Lyons Natasha , Schaepe David M , Hennessy Kate , Blake Michael , Pennier Clarence , Welch John R , McIntosh Kyle , Phillips Andy , Charlie Betty , Hall Clifford , Hall Lucille , Kadir Aynur , Point Alicia , Pennier Vi , Phillips Reginald , Muntean Reese , Williams Johnny , Williams John , Chapman Joseph , Pennier Colin
Published: October 2016

Ontology is the philosophical study of the nature of being, becoming, existence, and relation. This paper presents an ontology of the Sq’éwlets Virtual Museum of Canada Website Project, a project that has focused on creating a digital community biography of the Sq’éwlets First Nation ( www.digitalsqewlets.ca ). Based on several decades of community archaeology and the recent production of short video documentaries, the website presents a long-term perspective of what it means to be a Sq’éwlets person and community member today. We explore how this project came to focus on the nature of being Sq’éwlets; how community members conceived the nature, structure, and nomenclature of the website; and how this Sq’éwlets being-ness is translated for outside audiences. We suggest what lessons this approach has for anthropological conventions of naming and knowing as they relate to Indigenous histories, and consider how archaeological knowledge can be transformed into a digital platform within a community-based process.
Toward the development of standards for yellow flashing lights used in work zones
Authors: Rea MS , Bullough JD , Radetsky LC , Skinner NP , Bierman A
Published: October 2016

Flashing yellow warning lights are important for worker and driver safety in work zones. Current standards for these lights do not address whether and how they should be coordinated to provide directional information to drivers navigating through work zones. A field study was conducted to assess driver responses to warning lights. The luminous intensities and flash patterns of warning lights along a simulated work zone were varied during daytime and nighttime. During the daytime, driver responses were relatively insensitive to warning light characteristics, although drivers preferred sequential and synchronised flash patterns over random, uncoordinated flashing. At nighttime, the combination of a temporal peak luminous intensity of 25 cd and a sequential flash pattern was optimal for providing directional information. A single initial warning light having a higher luminous intensity may help drivers detect the work zone without creating unacceptable visual discomfort.
Emodin Exerts an Antiapoptotic Effect on Human Chronic Myelocytic Leukemia K562 Cell Lines by Targeting the PTEN/PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway and Deleting BCR-ABL
Authors: Wang Chun-Guang , Zhong Liang , Liu Yong-Li , Shi Xue-Jun , Shi Long-Qin , Zeng Li , Liu Bei-Zhong
Published: October 2016

The BCR-ABL kinase inhibitor, imatinib mesylate, is the front-line treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia, but the emergence of imatinib resistance has led to the search for alternative drug treatments. There is a pressing need, therefore, to develop and test novel drugs. Natural products including plants, microorganisms, and halobios provide rich resources for discovery of anticancer drugs. In this article, we demonstrate that emodin inhibited the growth of K562 cells harboring BCR-ABL in vitro and in vivo, and induced abundant apoptosis, which was correlated with the inhibition of PETN/PI3K/Akt level and deletion of BCR-ABL. These findings suggest that emodin is a promising agent to kill K562 cells harboring BCR-ABL.
Boehmenan, a Lignan From the Chinese Medicinal Plant Clematis armandii, Inhibits A431 Cell Growth via Blocking p70S6/S6 Kinase Pathway
Authors: Pan Li-Long , Wang Xi-Ling , Luo Xiao-Ling , Liu Si-Yu , Xu Peng , Hu Jin-Feng , Liu Xin-Hua
Published: October 2016

Previously, we have shown that boehmenan, a natural product isolated from the dried stem of Caulis clematidis armandii, exhibits various biological activities. The current study investigated the effects of boehmenan on the growth of human epidermoid carcinoma A431 cells. Cell viability and 50% inhibiting concentration (IC50) were assessed by CellTiter-Glo luminescent cell viability assay. Cell cycle arrest was measured by flow cytometry. Intracellular reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) collapse were analyzed by a fluorescence spectrophotometer. The activation of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathway was evaluated by Western blot. The results showed that boehmenan significantly inhibited the growth of A431 cells (IC50 = 1.6 µM) in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. This compound also blocked cell cycle progression at G2/M phase and modulated mitochondrial apoptosis-related proteins, as evidenced by upregulating p21, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase protein levels and by downregulating Bcl-2, pro-caspase-9 levels. In addition, boehmenan also markedly induced intracellular reactive oxygen species production and ΔΨm depolarization in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, boehmenan-attenuated epidermal growth factor mediated the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6)/S6 in a concentration-dependent manner. Taken together, our results suggest that boehmenan-mediated antiproliferative property in A431 cells was mediated partially by modulation of mitochondrial function and inhibition of STAT3 and p70S6 signal pathways.
Painful Pseudotendon of the Flexor Carpi Radialis Tendon: A Literature Review and Case Report
Authors: Van Demark Robert E. , Helsper Elizabeth , Hayes Meredith , Hayes Matthew , Smith Vanessa J. S.
Published: October 2016

Background: Flexor tendon ruptures in the wrist are uncommon. Flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon rupture can occur in rheumatoid patients, following cortisone injection for tenosynovitis, and following trauma. Following tendon rupture, tethering of the ruptured FCR tendon, or pseudotendon, can form which may or may not be symptomatic. Methods: A literature review was done reviewing treatment and outcomes of FCR tendon lesions. A case report of painful FCR pseudotendon following a fall is presented. The patient presented 4 months after injury with a tender lump 6 cm proximal to the wrist joint with pain and weakness aggravated with wrist motion and gripping. Results: The literature review reveals operative excision of a symptomatic FCR pseudotendon lesion results in great patient satisfaction with no morbidity. In this case report, in spite of conservative measures including cortisone injection and activity modification, the patient had persistent symptoms. The patient proceeded with surgery for complete excision of both the painful pseudotendon and retracted FCR tendon stump. Post-operatively, his wrist motion and grip strength returned to normal, and his Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score was significantly improved from 72 to 9. Conclusions: FCR pseudotendon is an uncommon condition and can be seen following trauma. Majority of FCR tendon ruptures resolve with non-operative treatment. Based on the excellent outcomes following complete FCR tendon harvest for thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint reconstruction, complete excision of a symptomatic pseudotendon results in excellent relief of symptoms with no long-term morbidity.
Exploring the punitive surge: Crown Court sentencing practices before and after the 2011 English riots
Authors: Pina-Sánchez Jose , Lightowlers Carly , Roberts Julian
Published: October 2016

The English summer riots of 2011 resulted in the criminal justice system having to process an unprecedented number of offenders in a short timeframe. This study explores sentencing practice in the wake of the riots using the 2011 Crown Court Sentencing Survey. A multilevel model was implemented to specify the probability of receiving a custodial sentence for offences of commercial burglary. This model allows exploring differences in sentencing before and after the riots. An increased probability of receiving a custodial sentence in the post-riot period was identified. An increase in variability was also detected, changing from a state of almost perfect consistency to one in which substantial variation was observed between courts. Custodial rates for burglary increased to a level associated with more serious offences, thereby undermining the principle of proportionality. This, as well as the increased dispersion between courts, challenges other principles such as legal certainty and transparency.
Willingness to cooperate with police: A population-based study of Australian young adult illicit stimulant users
Authors: Leslie Ellen M , Cherney Adrian , Smirnov Andrew , Wells Helene , Kemp Robert , Najman Jake M
Published: October 2016

While procedural justice has been highlighted as a key strategy for promoting cooperation with police, little is known about this model’s applicability to subgroups engaged in illegal behaviour, such as illicit drug users. This study compares willingness to cooperate with police and belief in police legitimacy, procedural justice and law legitimacy among a population-based sample of Australian young adult amphetamine-type stimulant (ATS; i.e. ecstasy and methamphetamine) users and non-users. We then examine predictors of willingness to cooperate among ATS users. ATS users were significantly less willing to cooperate with police and had significantly lower perceptions of police legitimacy, procedural justice and law legitimacy, compared to non-users. However, belief in police legitimacy independently predicted willingness to cooperate among ATS users. We set out to discuss the implications of these findings for policing, including the role of procedural justice in helping police deliver harm reduction strategies.
Comparison of distal radius fracture intra-articular step reduction with volar locking plates and K wires: a retrospective review of quality and maintenance of fracture reduction
Authors: Johnson N. A. , Dias J. J. , Wildin C. J. , Cutler L. , Bhowal B. , Ullah A. S.
Published: October 2016

This study investigated the accuracy and maintenance of reduction of intra-articular steps achieved with closed reduction and percutaneous K wires and open reduction and a volar locking plate for the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures. We performed a retrospective review of 359 patients with an intra-articular fracture of their distal radius. Multivariate linear regression was undertaken to investigate the influence of multiple variables such as age, gender, initial displacement and treatment method on reduction despite differences between groups. A total of 36% of patients treated with K wires and 29% with volar locking plate had a step greater than or equal to 1 mm present on the first post-operative radiograph. A total of 23% treated with K wires and 28% with volar locking plate had a residual step of 1 mm or more on the last available radiograph. There was no difference identified between the two techniques for quality of initial reduction or persisting step on the last available radiographs. Step behaviour and further reduction of step post-operatively was similar for both treatment methods. Initial displacement and increased age influenced initial reduction. Initial fracture displacement shown radiologically was the only variable identified that influenced the persistence of a step on post-operative radiographs.

Level of evidence: IV
Factors associated with subluxation in mallet fracture
Authors: Moradi A. , Braun Y. , Oflazoglu K. , Meijs T. , Ring D. , Chen N.
Published: October 2016

Radiographs and medical record of all adult patients with a mallet fracture in three hospitals between 2004 and 2014 were reviewed. International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes and text search in radiographic reports were used to identify all acute patients with potential mallet fractures in our institutional database. Manually checking, 392 true mallet fractures were identified among them, 78 had subluxation at the time of diagnosis and 19 had subluxation at a later time point during treatment. Fragment size, fragment displacement, and interval between injury and treatment were associated with initial and late subluxation. Subluxation was not observed when the fracture size was less than 39% of the total articular surface. For each 1% increase in total articular surface involvement in fractures with more than 39% involvement, the risk of subluxation increased by 4% and for each 1% of displacement, the risk of subluxation increased by 4%.

Level of Evidence: IV
Evidence for the use of pimavanserin in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease psychosis
Authors: Sarva Harini , Henchcliffe Claire
Published: October 2016

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with both motor and nonmotor symptoms (NMS), leading to significant morbidity and caregiver burden. Psychosis is common but is under recognized by physicians. When present, it increases the patient’s risk of hospitalization and nursing home placement and caregiver burden. Although the atypical antipsychotic agent, clozapine, has been considered the gold standard treatment, severe agranulocytosis in 0.38% of patients and more commonly milder leukopenia, resulting in frequent blood testing, limit its use. Pimavanserin, a 5HT2A receptor inverse agonist, has been shown to reduce psychosis in PD without worsening motor symptoms. It is therefore a welcome therapeutic option for this devastating NMS.
The Tropical Biodiversity Data Gap: Addressing Disparity in Global Monitoring
Authors: Collen Ben , Ram Mala , Zamin Tara , McRae Louise
Published: October 2016

Nations around the world are required to measure their progress towards key biodiversity goals. One important example of this, the Convention on Biological Diversity's 2010 target, is soon approaching. The target set is to significantly reduce the rate of biodiversity loss by the year 2010. However, to what extent are the data, especially for tropical countries, available to indicate biodiversity change and to what extent is current knowledge of biodiversity change truly a global picture? While species richness is greatest in the tropics, biodiversity data richness is skewed towards the poles. This not only provides a significant challenge for global indicators to accurately represent biodiversity, but also for individual countries that are responsible under such legislation for measuring their own impact on biodiversity. We examine the coverage of biodiversity data using four global biodiversity datasets, and look at how effective current efforts are at addressing this discrepancy, and what countries might be able to do in time for 2010 and beyond. We conclude by suggesting a number of activities which might provide impetus for improved biodiversity monitoring in tropical nations.
Tropical Dry Evergreen Forests of Peninsular India: Ecology and Conservation Significance
Authors: Parthasarathy N. , Selwyn M. Arthur , Udayakumar M.
Published: October 2016

Tropical dry evergreen forests (TDEFs) occur as patches along the Coromandel coast of peninsular India. Investigations on plant biodiversity, bioresource values, and conservation status of 75 TDEF sites were carried out. A total of 149 woody plant species representing 102 trees, 47 lianas, and three native herbs were enumerated. Across 75 sites studied, species richness of woody plants ranged from 10 to 69 species. Physiognomically, evergreen species dominated the forest. Forest growth determined as girth increment ranged from 0.37 to 1.08 cm yr−1 for trees and 0.39 to 0.41 cm yr−1 for lianas. At the community level, seasonal flowering with unimodal dry season peak and year-round, bimodal fruiting pattern prevailed. A strong association between the qualitative reproductive traits and pollination and dispersal spectrum among the TDEF species has been demonstrated. In bioresource assessment, 150 medicinal plant species, used for treating more than 52 ailments, were documented. Site disturbance scores were obtained by assessing the various site disturbances such as site encroachment, resource extraction, grazing, fragmentation, weed invasion, etc. Conservation significance of the TDEF sites is emphasized in the light of restricted geographical distribution, moderate level of plant species diversity, representation of the unique forest type, high productivity, and bioresource potential. Restoring the disturbed sites with characteristic TDEF species, and revitalizing the cultural traditions associated with sacred groves by promoting awareness of the ecological and bioresource values of TDEFs, are recommended.
Some Aspects of Seed Dispersal Effectiveness of Golden Lion Tamarins (Leontopithecus Rosalia) in a Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Lapenta Marina Janzantti , Procópio-de-Oliveira Paula
Published: October 2016

The effectiveness of a seed disperser is assessed by the quantity (number of visits to fruiting trees and number of seeds dispersed) and quality of dispersal (seeds passed through the gut unharmed and how and where the seeds are dispersed). This is the first study to examine quantitative and qualitative aspects of seed dispersal by golden lion tamarins ( Leontopithecus rosalia). The study was conducted from December 1998 to December 2000 and from April 2003 to March 2004 in the União Biological Reserve, Brazil. We marked 1,185 fruiting trees visited by tamarins and collected 1039 feces with seeds. About 76% of feces deposited by L. rosalia did not differ from the spatial distribution of plants of the same species. The mean time of gut retention was 1:14 h, and the mean distance of dispersal was 105 m. Given the effective role of L. rosalia as seed dispersers, their presence in the Atlantic forest is important for the regeneration of the forest.
Les peuplements d'arbres du Sanctuaire à gorilles de Mengamé au sud Cameroun
Authors: Evariste Fongnzossie Fedoung , Nolé Tsabang , Bernard-Aloys Nkongmeneck , Merlin Nguenang Guy , Philippe Auzel , Ellis Christina , Edouard Kamou , Marie Balouma Jean , Paul Apalo , Halford Mathieu , Martha Valbuena , Valère M
Published: October 2016

Pour mieux connaître la phytodiversité du Sanctuaire à gorilles de Mengamé, Cameroun, un inventaire botanique des arbres a été réalisé à la suite d'un échantillonnage classique basé sur la mise en place de transects. Au total 57 transects, chacun de 2,5 km de long et 5 m de large, totalisant 70,2 ha, ont permis de répertorier 23929 arbres appartenant à 49 familles, 191 genres et 307 espèces. Les résultats permettent de distinguer 10 types d'habitats d'importance égale pour la conservation. Les plus représentés sont les forêts denses secondaires âgées avec une dominance des espèces de la famille des Caesalpiniaceae et avec la présence d'essences de grand intérêt pour la conservation. L'analyse des indices de diversité pour cet inventaire montre une biodiversité relativement importante dans cette forêt. Comme implication de cette étude, les efforts de conservation de la biodiversité de la réserve doivent prendre en compte la composante végétation dans son intégralité.
Forest Patch Structures and Bird Species Composition of a Lowland Riverine Coastal Forest in Kenya
Authors: Owino Alfred O. , Amutete George , Mulwa Ronald. K. , Oyugi Joseph O.
Published: October 2016

The Lower Tana River forests in coastal Kenya represent lowland evergreen riverine tropical forest types that are rare in Kenya and probably in Africa. We assessed the bird species composition and forest conditions of 14 forest patches within the Lower Tana River valley each February and October between 1999 and 2004. Vegetation structures showed variations of different strengths in individual forest patches, but only canopy height differed significantly across sites. Overall, canopy cover was correlated directly with canopy height but inversely with bare ground. A total of 155 bird species of 43 families comprising 9 forest specialists (FF), 27 forest generalists (F), 42 forest visitors (f) and 77 species associated with savannah/woodland ecosystems were recorded from the 14 forest patches. The overall bird species composition did not differ significantly across these forest patches, but similarities in species composition of different strengths were evident across the sites.
Genetic Structure and Conservation of Teak (Tectona Grandis) Plantations in Côte d'Ivoire, Revealed by Site Specific Recombinase (SSR)
Authors: Fofana Inza J. , J.Lidah Yehili , Diarrassouba Nafan , N'guetta Simon P. A. , Sangare Abdourahamane , Verhaegen Daniel
Published: October 2016

Teak (Tectona grandis L.f; Verbenaceae) is a diploid species (2n=36). It is native to the tropical deciduous forests of India, Myanmar, Thailand and Laos. Snuffed for its aesthetic physical properties and its qualities, teak is becoming increasingly important in the forest plantation development in Côte d'Ivoire. To preserve the genetic resources of this species and ensure the supply of genetically superior quality germplasm for improvement and plantations, a core collection of superior genotypes with large genetic diversity is a prerequisite. This paper reports the use of site-specific recombinase (SSR) technology using microsatellite DNA markers to investigate the level of genetic variability, distribution of genetic variation and genetic relatedness in Tectona grandis grown in Côte d'Ivoire. The proportion of the total genetic variation resides within provenances (80.52 %) with 5.5 % of the variation occurring among populations of one region and 13.98 % among regions. The SSR markers showed a clear differentiation of the populations introduced in Côte d'Ivoire with an Fst = 0.21. The populations coming from the natural area were characterized by three clusters corresponding to South India, North India and Thailand. The study on the origin of African teak was close to North of India. However, Bambuku 7 population was an exception, as it seemed to have some affinity with Thailand populations. The use of SSR markers for conservation of teak forest diversity is discussed.
Integrating Landscapes that have Experienced Rural Depopulation and Ecological Homogenization into Tropical Conservation Planning
Authors: Jacob Aerin L. , Vaccaro Ismael , Sengupta Raja , Hartter Joel , Chapman Colin A.
Published: October 2016

If current trends of declining fertility rates and increasing abandonment of rural land as a result of urbanization continue, this will signal a globally significant transformation with important consequences for policy makers interested in conservation planning. This transformation is presently evident in a number of countries and projections suggest it may occur in the future in many developing countries. We use rates of population growth and urbanization to project population trends in rural areas for 25 example countries. Our projections indicate a general decline in population density that has either occurred already (e.g., Mexico) or may occur in the future if current trends continue (e.g., Uganda). Using both temperate and tropical examples we present evidence that this process will lead to ecological homogenization as a dominant habitat (e.g., forest replaces a mosaic of human-maintained landscapes), resulting in declines in biodiversity at the local scale. Building on this information, we consider research programs that need to be conducted so that policy makers are prepared to effectively manage depopulated rural areas.
Distribution and Conservation of the West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus Manatus) in the Catazajá Wetlands of Northeast Chiapas, México
Authors: Rodas-Trejo Jenner , Romero-Berny Emilio I. , Estrada Alejandro
Published: October 2016

Tropical coastal wetlands have a rich biodiversity, a restricted geographic distribution and are a prime habitat for manatees in the regions where they occur in the Neotropics. Human pressures affect the persistence of tropical wetland ecosystems and hence of manatees. In the continental Neotropics, the West Indian manatee ( Trichechus manatus) is represented in Mexico by the subspecies T. m. manatus. Lack of information regarding the current distribution of manatees in Mexico hampers conservation approaches of this marine mammal. In this paper we present information on a survey of a population of manatees found in the Catazajá wetlands (ca 60,000ha) in northeast Chiapas, Mexico. We additionally report on manatee conservation efforts spanning seven years aimed at involving the participation of local rural communities. Systematic surveys for the presence of manatees were conducted between Feb-Nov, 2007 by sightings along sampling transects in waterways, recording of manatee presence as evidenced by recently browsed aquatic vegetation, presence of stranded individuals and presence of deceased manatees. Additionally, some records of manatee presence underwater were obtained by using a side-scan sonar system. Lastly, interviews with 120 individuals from 10 local communities also yielded information on manatee presence in the wetland system. A map of the study area divided into a grid of 50 ha cells was used to plot and quantify the records of manatee presence obtained with the above procedures. Results indicated presence of manatees in 11% (ca 4,850 ha) of the 50 ha cells into which the study area was divided. Records indicate presence of manatees throughout the wetland, but with concentration in particular sectors. Involvement of local communities in manatee conservation has resulted in designating the Catazajá wetlands as a natural protected area.
Is Oil Palm the Next Emerging Threat to the Amazon?
Authors: Butler Rhett A. , Laurance William F.
Published: October 2016

The Amazon Basin appears poised to experience rapid expansion of oil palm agriculture. Nearly half of Amazonia is suitable for oil palm cultivation, and Malaysian corporations are now moving into the region to establish new plantations while the Brazilian government is considering a law that would count oil palm as “forest” towards a landowner's forest reserve requirement. Strong economic incentives for a major Amazonian oil palm industry are likely, given growing global demands for edible oils, oil-based products, and biofuel feedstocks. We have two main concerns. First, oil palm plantations are ecologically depauperate, supporting little forest-dependent wildlife. Second, we disbelieve political and corporate statements suggesting that oil palm plantations will be concentrated on previously deforested lands in Amazonia. In reality, oil palm producers strongly favor clearing primary forest for plantations because they can reap immediate profits from timber production. These profits subsidize the costs of plantation establishment and maintenance for the initial 3-5 years until the oil palm plantations become profitable. Hence, oil palm agriculture could soon emerge as a major new threat to the Amazonian environment.
Belize-Guatemala Territorial Dispute and its Implications for Conservation
Authors: Perez Arlenie , Chin-Ta Chuang , Afero Farok
Published: October 2016

Guatemala has claimed Belizean territory for 150 years, ever since the colonial era. While several attempts have been made to settle this dispute, with no final resolution, several problems both on the land and sea still exist, including illegal settlements, illegal logging, illegal hunting, illegal fishing, illegal harvesting of forest products, illegal farming, illegal land subdivisions, loss of property and threat to human life. These problems have created conflict between the two nations along with a series of confrontations among the military forces, communities, and fishermen in the two countries. A proposal facilitated by the Organization of American States for confidence-building measures between the two countries did not succeed. Both countries now seek to finalize the settlement at the International Court of Justice. This paper introduces the issue with a summary of the history of Belize's territory and the origins of the claim, followed by a summary of the treaties and negotiations agreed to between the two countries, important elements of the Belize Maritime Act, and a discussion of the implications for conservation and efforts made to resolve this conflict.
The Harvest of Endemic Amphibians for Food in Eastern Madagascar
Authors: Jenkins Richard K. B. , Rabearivelo Andriamanana , Andre Chan Tak Chan Wai Mine , Randrianavelona Roma , Randrianantoandro J. Christian
Published: October 2016

Deliveries of edible, endemic amphibians to a restaurant in eastern Madagascar were monitored over a five-month period in the 2008 austral summer. Each frog collector was interviewed on arrival and information was obtained on collection locality, methods, frequency, as well as recording the number of frogs delivered. A total of 3,233 frogs were delivered to the restaurant during the study, averaging 249 per week. All of the 21 interviews concerned frogs collected in forest habitats at night by teams of between one and three people. Collection occurred in four localities, one of which (Fierenana) necessitated public transport to deliver the frogs. Effort at Fierenana was typically higher than at other sites with collectors frequently spending at least one night in the forest and traveling around 8.3 hours between their homes and forest collection locations. Income generated went directly to the collectors, who always delivered the frogs in person, and supply was determined by their available time, frog abundance, and weather conditions. Although the restaurant had no stated minimum quantity for purchase, small frogs were refused and collectors aimed for a minimum of 60 large frogs per delivery. The income generated by local amphibian collectors at Fierenena was similar for non-threatened edible species destined for domestic consumption (0.29 US$) and the Critically Endangered Mantella milotympanum collected for overseas export (0.32 US$). The harvest of edible frogs provides important income for individual hunters but additional study is needed to investigate its impact on frog populations and to develop methods to link sustainable collection practices with forest management.
Butterfly (Papilionoidea and Hesperioidea) Rapid Assessment of a Coastal Countryside in El Salvador
Authors: Bonebrake Timothy C. , Sorto Rubén
Published: October 2016

Conservation organizations often must rely on data collected quickly and cheaply to make informed decisions in unstudied regions. Butterflies represent an opportunity in this respect, in that many species can typically be sampled and identified in a short time and provide an indication of habitat or conservation value as well. During nine days of sampling in June 2008, we found and identified 84 butterfly species and 1,856 butterfly individuals at Playa El Icacal, Department of La Unión, El Salvador, using transect counts. Through species richness estimators and a ratio extrapolation based on a list of species expected to be found onsite, we sampled 40–60% of the butterfly community present. Species richness at the site is estimated to be between 100 and 200 species. Sites with small patches of dry forest (La Bocana and La Laguna) had higher species richness than sites without dry forest (Hacienda Casco, El Manglar, and El Esteron). While two weeks is not enough time to fully document the butterfly community in 20 km2 of neotropical coastal countryside, we were able to provide a valuable estimate of species richness and provide some information as to which areas in the region hold the most conservation value. We suggest using a list of widespread species with modified habitat associations for use as an inventory index for ratio extrapolation and discuss specific guidelines for future butterfly rapid assessments in Mesoamerica.
Estudio poblacional y uso de hábitat por el venado cola blanca (Odocoileus virginianus)en un bosque templado de la Sierra de Pachuca, Hidalgo, México
Authors: Sánchez-Rojas Gerardo , Aguilar-Miguel Cristian , Hernández-Cid Edel
Published: October 2016

Se estimó la densidad y el uso de hábitat (por categorías de edad y sexo) de una población del venado cola blanca (Odocoileus virginianus) en un bosque templado de la sierra de Pachuca, Hidalgo. La estimación de la densidad se calculó mediante el conteo de grupos fecales y se evaluó el uso del hábitat por medio de la presencia de excremento. La morfología de los pellets se evaluó mediante el método K media difusa para obtener las categorías: I)juveniles, II)machos adultos y III)hembras adultas. Se midieron características de abundancia, diversidad y arquitectura de la vegetación leñosa y se utilizó un análisis de componentes principales (ACP) para identificar las variables de mayor relevancia y la heterogeneidad entre las unidades de evaluación. Para evaluar las diferencias entre los grupos de edad y sexo se utilizó un Análisis de Función Discriminante (AFD). La densidad estimada fue de 2.1 ± 1.6 ind/km2. La clasificación mostró que el 40% de los pellets fueron asignados a juveniles, el 40% a hembras y 20% a machos. El ACP mostró que las variables de los arbustos son más importantes y que hay un área extensa de hábitat disponible para los venados, mientras que el AFD detectó diferencia significativa en el grupo de los jóvenes con respecto a los adultos en los sitios donde la vegetación de estrato arbustivo es más cerrada. En términos de conservación es importante contar con datos de la densidad de la población pues permite la comparación de monitoreos posteriores, pero sobretodo empezar a documentar como responden las especies dentro de las Unidades de Conservación y Manejo para Uso Sustentable