bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vegetation, phosphorus, and dust gradients downwind from a cattle feedyard
Authors: Todd Richard W. , Guo Wenxuan , Stewart Bobby A. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

A native shortgrass pasture downwind from a 25,000-head beef cattle feedyard near Bushland, Tex. degraded after the feedyard was stocked in 1970. Objectives were to determine pre-1970 vegetation, quantify current vegetation, and describe changes in vegetation, soil P and dust deposition with distance from the feedyard. Pre-1970 vegetation was documented with published measurements. In 2000, plant cover was quantified using 600 quadrats. Soil P, conserved in the local soil, was measured in soil samples from 119 locations. Dust was collected at 12 locations. From 1966-1972, cover was 18.8% blue grama [Bouteloua gracilis (H.B.K.) Lag. ex Griffiths] and 7.4% buffalograss [Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.]; the 2 species comprised 95% of vegetation cover. In 2000, perennial grass (75-99% blue grama) cover averaged 3.7% at < 150 m from the feedyard, and increased to 28% at > 525 m from the feedyard. Conversely, annual grass (67% Hordeum pusillum Nutt.) and annual forb [72% Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad.] covers were 49% and 35% nearest the feedyard and decreased to 9% and 1%, respectively, at > 525 m. Over a similar distance, soil P decreased from 75 to 17 mg kg-1. Dust deposition rate decreased with distance from the feedyard. Manure dust contribution to total dust ranged from negligible to 89%. It was estimated that 20-30 kg N ha-1 year-1 were deposited over 30 years to areas nearest the feedyard. Changes in vegetation and soil P were greatest at < 500 m from the feedyard. Vegetation and soil P were near values expected for shortgrass prairie at > 500 m downwind from the feedyard. The pattern of vegetation, soil fertility, and dust deposition gradients strongly suggested that the feedyard was the primary cause of the observed changes, although a direct causal link could not be established, and other factors, such as grazing, could have contributed to the observed changes.
Patch burning effects on grazing distribution
Authors: Vermeire Lance T. , Mitchell Robert B. , Fuhlendorf Samuel D. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Post-fire forage growth is known to be a strong attractant for large herbivores. However, fire has generally been avoided as a grazing distribution tool for fear of localized over utilization of forage resources. Our objectives were to examine whether forage utilization was affected by season of burn, determine cattle grazing preference for burned sites relative to non-burned sites, determine forb response to patch burning, and describe the relationship between end-of-season standing crop and distance from burned sites. Sixteen, 4-ha plots were burned in mid-November or mid-April and left exposed to cattle grazing for the duration of the growing season. Burn treatments were blocked within pastures to allow individual herds access to fall-burned, spring-burned, and non-burned sites. Standing crop estimates for grasses, forbs, and total herbage were made in September by clipping on burned sites and at 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 m distant from the plot's edge. Standing crop was also sampled in exclosures on burned and non-burned sites. Cattle showed no preference for one burn season over the other. Cattle were strongly attracted to burned sites, reducing grass standing crop 78% within burns compared to 19% outside the influence of burns. Grass standing crop decreased in a predictable manner with proximity to burned plots. Forbs increased 60% to 1,095 kg ha-1 on grazed burned plots, but were unaffected by distance from burns. Patch burning can be employed as an effective, inexpensive grazing distribution tool.
Regrowth and production of herbaceous riparian vegetation following defoliation
Authors: Boyd Chad S. , Svejcar Tony J. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Stubble height regulations are frequently used to manage livestock grazing of herbaceous riparian vegetation. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of stubble height, time of clipping and soil water status on production and regrowth of herbaceous riparian vegetation. We used a randomized block design with 4 study sites on each of 3 small ( 2m width) streams in northern Harney County, Ore. In June and July of 2000-2003, 40 × 50 cm experimental plots were clipped to stubble heights of 5.1 (2 inch), 10.2 (4 inch), or 15.2 cm (6 inch), and paired control plots were left unclipped. Complete treatment sets were located adjacent to the stream and 4 m from the stream at each site. All plots were clipped to 1 cm in October and regrowth was calculated by comparing clipped and control plots. Water table depth was measured weekly using PVC wells. Results indicate that height regrowth was associated positively with stubble height (P < 0.01) and was less with July compared to June clipping (P = 0.02). Weight regrowth was also positively related to stubble height (P < 0.01) and decreased with July compared to June clipping (P = 0.04) whereas annual aboveground production increased with July clipping (P = 0.02). Annual production values for clipped plots were higher than for unclipped plots, indicating compensatory production in response to defoliation. Plots distant from the stream had less water availability, but regrowth and production were not strongly influenced by distance from active stream channel. Timing and intensity of defoliation were reliable predictors of regrowth and production performance. Most clipping height × time combinations produced end of season heights sufficient to meet current federal stubble height requirements (i.e., 10-15 cm). Our results provide insight on the timing and intensity of defoliation that will allow for adequate regrowth to meet different management objectives. However, other factors such as stream channel morphology, animal selectivity, and annual weather variation will need to be considered.
Occupied and unoccupied sage grouse habitat in Strawberry Valley, Utah
Authors: Bunnell Kevin D. , Flinders Jerran T. , Mitchell Dean L. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

This study evaluated multiple aspects of spring/summer sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) habitat in Strawberry Valley, Utah by measuring vegetation associated with nest, brood and adult use sites. In addition, 3 types of random habitats were measured including available habitat within core use areas, random sagebrush (Artemisia spp.)/grass habitat outside core use areas, and random sagebrush/grass habitat sites that had been converted to an understory of smooth brome (Bromus inermis Leyss) by past range management practices. Logistic regression was used to identify those habitat variables that discriminated between site types. Variables that discriminated adult habitat from brood rearing habitat included: 1) sagebrush height (P ≤ 0.01) and 2) forb diversity (P = 0.12) with sagebrush height being greater at adult sites and forb diversity greater at brood sites Variables that significantly discriminated occupied adult habitat from random habitat outside of core use areas included: 1) percent grass cover (P ≤ 0.01) and 2) area of sagebrush canopy (P = 0.03) with both variables having grater values in adult habitat. Variables that significantly discriminated occupied adult habitat from random habitat with a smooth brome understory included: 1) percent forb cover (P ≤ 0.01), 2) shrub canopy cover (P = 0.02), and 3) area of sagebrush canopy (P = 0.08) with all variables being greater in adult habitat. In addition, this study identified sagebrush age, sagebrush canopy area, and forb diversity as potentially important aspects of sage grouse habitat that have not been previously reported.
Soil texture and tree coverage influence on organic matter
Authors: Buschiazzo D. E. , Estelrich H. D. , Aimar S. B. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Soil organic matter (OM) is an important factor for maintaining the productivity and the stability of the so-called caldénal woodland ecosystem of central Argentina. Little is known about the influence of tree coverage and soil texture on OM accumulation in soils of the study region. The relationships between OM content, silt + clay content, and the percent of tree coverage were studied in a 25 × 25 m grid in 2 sites. Results showed that OM was lower (P < 0.05) at Site I (2.86%) than at Site II (6.41%). The OM was positively correlated with the percent of tree coverage in Site I (OM = 0.0156 trees cover + 1.97, R2 = 0.29, P < 0.001), but not in Site II. Conversely, a positive correlation with silt + clay was observed in Site II (OM = 0.17 silt + clay - 6.79, R2 = 0.41, P < 0.05) but not in Site I. A multiple regression analysis [OM = - 16.64 + 0.71 (silt + clay) + 0.04 (tree coverage), n = 78, R2 = 0.55, P < 0.001] tended to confirm these results. Although they differed in their relative weight both silt + clay and tree coverage affect OM accumulation at both sites. The larger influence of trees on OM variability at Site I was attributed to the lower, but highly variable, tree coverage, and the stronger influence of silt + clay on OM variability at Site II can be attributed to the lower variability of tree coverage, and the higher variability of soil texture. According to our results, (a) 41% of OM variability is explained by silt + clay content when tree coverage is dense and uniform, and (b) a 29% of OM variability is explained by tree coverage when such coverage is sparse and heterogeneous. The influence of tree canopy on OM distribution could be explained by its effect on the temperature regime. The influence of soil texture on OM could be attributed to its effect on the water retention capacity of soils. While forest clearing increases the maximum temperature and the temperature amplitude of soils, erosion in cleared areas affects soil texture, and consequently, its water retention capacity. The deterioration of both temperature and soil water regimes deteriorates, in turn, the capacity of the soil to accumulate OM.
Ploidy, water, and nitrogen effects on Russian wildrye chemical composition
Authors: Karn J. F. , Frank A. B. , Berdahl J. D. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Russian wildrye [Psathyrostachys juncea (Fisch.) Nevski], a cool-season introduced bunchgrass, offers producers an alternative to crested wheatgrass [Agropyron desertorum (Fisch. ex Link) Schultes] for spring and fall grazing in the Northern Great Plains. Tetraploid Russian wildrye with improved seedling establishment may offer even greater potential for seasonal grazing. This study investigates how the concentrations of some nutritive quality components in leaf, stem, and inflorescence tissue of diploid and tetraploid Russian wildrye were affected by growing season water (50 and 150% of average precipitation) and fertilizer (10 and 134 kg N ha-1). Plants were sampled at vegetative, boot, anthesis, and anthesis plus 10-day stages of maturity in 1994, 1995, and 1996. Tetraploid plants had slightly (P 0.05) less crude protein (CP) in leaf, stem and inflorescence tissue than diploid plants. Plants grown at the 50% water treatment had higher CP and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), and lower acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in leaf and inflorescence tissue, while in stem tissue only CP was affected by the growing season water treatment. Nitrogen fertilizer resulted in greater CP and IVDMD and lower ADF and NDF in all 3 plant tissues. Maturity affects were consistent over leaf, stem and inflorescence tissue, with CP and IVDMD declining and ADF and NDF increasing as plants matured. There were some differences in nutritive quality components between diploid and tetraploid plants, but overall their qualities were comparable and quite good. Crude protein at all stages of maturity in leaf and inflorescence tissue would have been adequate for most classes of beef cattle, while stem tissue CP would have only been adequate for lower producing animals.
Riparian vegetation response to different intensities and seasons of grazing
Authors: Lucas Richard W. , Baker Terrell T. , Wood M. Karl ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Sustainable management of riparian ecosystems depends on our understanding of these complex systems. Thus far, the scientific literature has not adequately addressed the effects of livestock grazing on riparian areas in the American southwest. Most available information is observational, anecdotal, based on unreplicated experiments, or compares heavily grazed areas to areas from which livestock have been completely excluded. This study, in the Black Range of western New Mexico, compared effects of different seasons of use (cool season, warm season, and dormant season) and grazing intensities (light, moderate, and none) of cattle on young narrowleaf cottonwood (Populus angustifolia James) populations, and herbaceous vegetation in 2 adjacent southwestern riparian areas. Cottonwoods in lightly grazed and moderately grazed plots received significantly greater use than cottonwoods in ungrazed plots which experienced negligible grazing pressure. Increased grazing pressure did not have significant impacts on cottonwood populations. Effects of season of use were significant on both herbaceous species richness and diversity. We conclude that no single riparian area management approach is best in all situations, but the grazing treatments used in this study appear to have been successful at maintaining riparian communities.
Sulfosulfuron effects on growth and photosynthesis of 15 range grasses
Authors: Monaco Thomas A. , Creech J. Earl ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

We conducted greenhouse experiments to compare photosynthetic and growth responses of 2 invasive annual grasses (downy brome = Bromus tectorum L. and medusahead = Taeniatherum caput-medusae (L.) [Nevski]), 6 caespitose grasses, and 7 rhizomatous grasses to the herbicide sulfosulfuron (1-(2-ethylsulfonylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridin-3-ylsulfonyl)-3-(4,6-dimethoxypyrimidin-2-yl)urea). Our objectives were to identify general patterns of species responsiveness and test the hypothesis that sulfosulfuron induced reduction in photosynthetic activity and shoot growth would be more pronounced in small relative to larger plants. Small plants in a spring experiment and large plants in a summer experiment were treated with sulfosulfuron (70 g ai ha-1). Wildryes and bromes were consistently injured; whereas, 5 of the 7 wheatgrasses were not susceptible to sulfosulfuron. Rhizomatous grasses generally experienced greater damage from sulfosulfuron than caespitose grasses. These results suggest that sulfosulfuron would provide a useful rangeland management tool to control unwanted invasive annual grasses without significantly hindering growth and physiology of desirable rangeland grasses.
Mowing rights-of-way affects carbohydrate reserves and tiller development
Authors: Nofal Hisham R. , Sosebee Ronald E. , Wan Changgui ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Intensive mowing has contributed to the loss of some climax grasses in Texas highway rights-of-way. The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different mowing heights and frequencies on total non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) concentration and tiller density in short and mid-grasses grown along highway rights-of-way. Shortgrasses were represented by blue grama [Bouteloua gracilis (H.B.K) Lag ex Steud.], and mid-grasses were represented by silver bluestem [Bothriochloa saccharoides (Sw.) Rydb], both of which are indigenous species. During 1999 and 2000, grasses were either non-mowed (control) or subjected to mowing heights of 5 and 10 cm, and 5 mowing frequencies (monthly, bi-monthly, tri-monthly, 1-time-only at the beginning or end of the growing season). Plants of both species mowed less frequently at either stubble height had higher TNC concentrations than plants subjected to more frequent mowing. Mowing produced fewer (P 0.05) tillers after 2 consecutive mowing seasons than after 1 mowing season in silver bluestem. Silver bluestem tiller growth was more susceptible to frequent mowing than blue grama. Mowing during periods of rapid inflorescence development reduced tiller density in both species after 2 mowing seasons. Mowing height and frequency guidelines are proposed to maintain roadside grasses in their most productive state through planning mowing practices around the target plant's natural growth habit and it's ability to respond to defoliation.
Stocking rate and grazing frequency effects on Nebraska Sandhills meadows
Authors: Voleski Jerry D. , Schacht Walter H. , Richardson Devyn M. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Nearly one-half million ha of the Nebraska Sandhills is comprised of highly productive wet meadows. A study was conducted from 1998 to 2001 to evaluate the effects of stocking rate and grazing frequency on herbage dynamics, disappearance, and composition of a wet meadow dominated by cool-season vegetation. Defoliation characteristics were measured on 2 key species. Stocking rates were 148, 296, and 444 AUD ha-1 combined with a grazing frequency of 3 (F3) or 5 (F5) times. Cumulative standing crop disappearance and height reduction increased linearly with increasing stocking rate. Disappearance was 1,920, 2,700, and 3,090 kg ha-1 for the 148, 296, and 444 AUD ha-1 stocking rates, respectively. Greater disappearance at the highest stocking rate was expected based on calculated intake estimates for that stocking rate. Percentage of tillers grazed and percentage height reduction increased with stocking rate for both key species. Percentage of tillers grazed was greater under F3 compared to F5. This likely was caused by higher grazing pressures under the F3 treatment at each grazing period. Frequency of occurrence of the primary plant species or groups was not affected by stocking rate or grazing frequency during any year of the study (P > 0.05); however, frequency of occurrence of legumes and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) was higher in grazed pastures compared to the control. The abundance of soil moisture in these meadows appeared to mitigate the effects of heavier defoliation associated with higher stocking rates. However, defoliation of the taller grasses and sedges resulted in a more open canopy allowing shorter-statured species to increase. Overall, stocking rate affected more response variables than grazing frequency and the productivity of our wet meadow site would potentially support a stocking rate of 296 AUD ha-1.
Landscape use by cattle affected by pasture developments and season
Authors: Zuo Haitao , Miller-Goodman Mary S. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Allowing cattle (Bos taurus L.) unrestricted access to streams can contribute to degradation of riparian and aquatic habitats. The objectives of this study were (1) to quantify the amount of time cattle spend using streams and associated riparian habitats when off-stream water and shade sources are offered and (2) to relate these patterns of habitat use to diurnal and seasonal changes in environmental conditions characteristic of the lower southeast. Diurnal (dawn-to-dusk) patterns of cattle location and behaviors were monitored between March 2000 and October 2001 in north-central Alabama at farms with pastures in which wooded streams were present. No significant decrease was detected in the length of diurnal periods cattle spent in riparian habitats after water and shade developments were in place. Grazing (7.8 hours) dominated daytime behaviors of cattle during the cool season when preference was for grassland habitat (7.6 hours). During the warm season, time spent lying increased to 4.7 hours versus 2.7 hours during the cool season; cattle consistently sought either riparian or other wooded habitat at midday and afternoon in comparison to morning and evening periods. Overall, grazing behaviors occurred predominantly (80%) in grassland habitat and lying behaviors occurred mainly (60%) in wooded habitat. Results suggested that comfort (relief from heat stress) appeared to be a major criterion in habitat use decisions by cattle during the warm season for the relatively small spatial scales (3.3 and 6.9 ha) studied. Therefore, dependence only on water and shade developments for alterations in livestock distribution may not be the most effective strategy for reduced degradation of many riparian habitats found in this region.
Grazing Intensity, Aspect, and Slope Effects on Limestone Grassland Structure
Authors: Amezaga Ibone , Mendarte Sorkunde , Albizu Isabel ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Three treatments were used to evaluate the effect of grazing intensity (ca 30% and 50% herbage removal), aspect (north and south), and slope ( 10% and 10%-30%) on plant community structure of mountain grasslands in the Basque Country (Spain). Plant species richness was not significantly affected by grazing intensity, aspect, or slope. Although plant species composition was similar (Sorensen's similarity index = 0.87) between both grazing intensities, species frequency and cover were affected by grazing intensity. Festuca rubra L. and Agrostis capillaris L. were the most common species under both grazing pressures. Moderate grazing intensity (50% herbage removal) plots contained a greater number of plant species with a frequency of more than 50%. The lowest cover for F. rubra corresponded to low grazing intensity, north aspects, and steeper slopes. The lowest cover for A. capillaris was found under low grazing intensity (30% herbage removal) and steeper slopes. Danthonia decumbens (L.) P. C., Potentilla erecta (L.) Räuschal, and Trifolium repens L. were significantly affected by aspect and grazing intensity. Low grazing intensity on sites with northern aspects and steep slopes favored Agrostis curtisii Kerguélen, a species with a low nutritional value. A. capillaris, A. curtisii, P. erecta, and T. repens were sensitive to soil properties and aspect. Nitrogen and K soil concentrations were significantly higher in areas with low grazing intensity, most likely due to greater dead herbage accumulation. Significant (P 0.05) correlations between plant species and soil pH or P concentration were found in areas with low grazing intensity. Reduction in grazing intensity together with the effect of slope and northern aspect has resulted in changes in plant community structure, leading to increases in forages with lower nutritional value.
Changes in Plant Functional Groups, Litter Quality, and Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Mineralization With Sheep Grazing in an Inner Mongolian Grassland
Authors: Barger Nicole N. , Ojima Dennis S. , Belnap Jane ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

This study reports on changes in plant functional group composition, litter quality, and soil C and N mineralization dynamics from a 9-year sheep grazing study in Inner Mongolia. Addressed are these questions: 1) How does increasing grazing intensity affect plant community composition? 2) How does increasing grazing intensity alter soil C and N mineralization dynamics? 3) Do changes in soil C and N mineralization dynamics relate to changes in plant community composition via inputs of the quality or quantity of litter? Grazing plots were set up near the Inner Mongolia Grassland Ecosystem Research Station (IMGERS) with 5 grazing intensities: 1.3, 2.7, 4.0, 5.3, and 6.7 sheep ha-1 yr-1. Plant cover was lower with increasing grazing intensity, which was primarily due to a dramatic decline in grasses, Carex duriuscula, and Artemisia frigida. Changes in litter mass and percentage organic C resulted in lower total C in the litter layer at 4.0 and 5.3 sheep ha-1 yr-1 compared with 2.7 sheep ha-1 yr-1. Total litter N was lower at 5.3 sheep ha-1 yr-1 compared with 2.7 sheep ha-1 yr-1. Litter C:N ratios, an index of litter quality, were significantly lower at 4.0 sheep ha-1 yr-1 relative to 1.3 and 5.3 sheep ha-1 yr-1. Cumulative C mineralized after 16 days decreased with increasing grazing intensity. In contrast, net N mineralization (NH+4 + NO-3) after a 12-day incubation increased with increasing grazing intensity. Changes in C and N mineralization resulted in a narrowing of CO2-C:net Nmin ratios with increasing grazing intensity. Grazing explained 31% of the variability in the ratio of CO2-C:net Nmin. The ratio of CO2-C:net Nmin was positively correlated with litter mass. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between litter mass and A. frigida cover. Results suggest that as grazing intensity increases, microbes become more C limited resulting in decreased microbial growth and demand for N.
Diets of Nubian and Granadina Goats Grazing on Arid Rangeland
Authors: Mellado Miguel , Rodríguez Alvaro , Olvera Abundio ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

A study was conducted to test the hypothesis that Granadina goats are better suited than Nubian goats to utilize the forage resources of the Chihuahuan desert range. Diet composition (microhistological analysis of fecal samples) and selection relative to availability were investigated among nonpregnant, nonlactating adult Nubian (n = 6) and Granadina (n = 6) goats grazing rangeland during the rainy period. Granadina goats consumed more (P 0.05) shrubs (70.6 %) than Nubians (52.5 %). Atriplex canescens (Pursh.) Nut., Acacia farnesiana (L.) Willd., and Larrea tridentata (DC.) Coy. were more important (P > 0.05) forage species for Granadina than for Nubian goats. Forbs consumption was higher (39.1 %; P < 0.05) for Nubians compared with Granadinas (27.7 %). Grass consumption was 8.4% and 1.7% for Nubian and Granadina goats, respectively (P < 0.01). In general, both breeds showed the greatest preference for shrubs and forbs. The diet overlap between breeds was moderate (similarity index = 68). The evidence of this study suggests that in the Chihuahuan desert range, Granadina goats were folivorous (browsers) and rarely grazed in the rainy season, whereas Nubians diversify their diet utilizing a variety of forage classes.
Browsing and Plant Age Relationships to Winter Protein and Fiber of Big Sagebrush Subspecies
Authors: Wambolt Carl L. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

Plants of 3 big sagebrush subspecies, mountain big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana [Rydb.] Beetle), Wyoming big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis Beetle and Young), and basin big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata Nutt. ssp. tridentata) were sampled for crude protein and acid detergent fiber (ADF) content. The ADF was determined as an indication of energy content and digestibility. Crude protein and ADF levels were compared among the 3 taxa and between lightly and heavily browsed plants and young and mature plants within each subspecies. Current year growth collected in mid-January was sampled to coincide with the season of greatest ungulate browsing on big sagebrush. Crude protein for mountain big sagebrush (8.34%) was less (P ≤ 0.05) than for Wyoming big sagebrush (11.25%) and basin big sagebrush (11.29%). All are well above the maintenance requirements of deer at 7.5% crude protein. The ADF levels between age and browse-use classes were not different (P ≤ 0.05) within any subspecies, although mountain big sagebrush generally had a lower ADF level than the other 2 subspecies. Wyoming big sagebrush was the only taxon with a crude protein difference (1.2%) (P ≤ 0.05) between age classes, although the difference is not biologically significant. Crude protein was not different between browse-use classes within any of the 3 taxa. Crude protein and digestibility do not indicate ungulate preference for these big sagebrush subspecies.
Comparison of refractometry and biuret assay for measurement of total protein concentration in canine abdominal and pleural fluid specimens
Authors: Rose Alexandra , Funk Deborah , Neiger Reto
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE To compare total protein (TP) concentrations in canine pleural and abdominal fluid specimens as measured by refractometry and biuret assay.

DESIGN Diagnostic test evaluation.

SAMPLE Data regarding 92 pleural and 148 abdominal fluid specimens from dogs with various diseases.

PROCEDURES TP concentrations in fluid specimens as measured by refractometry and biuret assay were recorded. Strength of association between sets of measurements was assessed by Spearman rank correlations and Bland-Altman plots. Optimal concentration cutoff for diagnostic discrimination between exudate and nonexudate was identified by construction of receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS Median TP concentration in pleural fluid specimens was 2.7 g/dL (range, 0.3 to 4.8 g/dL) for refractometry and 2.9 g/dL (range, 0.7 to 5.8 g/dL) for biuret assay. Median TP concentration in abdominal fluid specimens was 3.5 g/dL (range, 0.1 to 6.0 g/dL) for refractometry and 3.5 g/dL (range, 0.6 to 5.7 g/dL) for biuret assay. Correlation was significant between refractometric and biuret results for pleural (ρ = 0.921) and abdominal (ρ = 0.908) fluid. Bland-Altman plots revealed bias of −0.18 g/dL for pleural fluid and −0.03 g/dL for abdominal fluid for refractometry versus biuret assay. With a TP concentration of ≥ 3 g/dL used to distinguish exudate from nonexudate, sensitivity of refractometry was 77% for pleural fluid and 80% for abdominal fluid. Specificity was 100% and 94%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Refractometry yielded acceptable results for measurement of TP concentration in canine pleural and abdominal fluid specimens, providing a more rapid and convenient method than biuret assay. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2016;248:789–794)
The 60 versus 90 MW Battle over Upper Trishuli-3A The Victors and the Vanquished Classic Case of throwing the Baby out with the Bathwater!
Authors: Pun Santa Bahadur
Published: March 2016

Abstract: Chronicling the Upper Trishuli-3A (UT-3A) controversy is necessary because it provides a classic example of what ails our power sector and why we suffer such long load shedding. With a concessional US$120 million loan from China, UT-3A was tendered in February 2009 as a 60 MW project but with an ‘alternative proposal’ caveat. Bids were opened in May 2009 and the lowest evaluated bidder, China Gezhouba Group Company (CGGC), included a‘25% of the cost’ caveat for the ‘90 MW option’. NEA had envisaged starting project construction ‘from the dry season of 2009’. However, a full two years lapsed before the order to commence work on the 60 MW UT-3A was given in June 2011. This unduly long two year delay and the ‘chalkhel’ therein could be another chronicle in itself. The 60 versus 90 MW controversy then spilled over to the public. The blistering partisan stands of the media were compounded by the bureaucratic  ‘save your necks’ committees’ recommendations. Twenty months after the commencement order for the 60 MW was given, Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai’s cabinet approved ‘in principle’ the 90 MW upgrading in January 2013. This decision was lambasted for abuse of power ‘for personal and party’s bene?t ….. no other motive than earning cash.’ Strangely, the cat was ?nally belled by Khil Raj Regmi’s bureaucrat-led Interim Election government when the NEA Board on 31st May 2013 approved the 90 MW upgrading to ‘optimize available resources.’ The NEA Unions, supported by political stalwarts, immediately rose up in objection. In a mere 12 days, the Interim government buckled and the NEA Board was forced to eat the humble pie: it reversed its 90 MW decision to 60 MW for a ‘more congenial environment’ in the supply of electricity. This article attempts to analyze this controversial issue by reconstructing the sequence of events and decisions so that latter-day researchers will judge the victors and the vanquished in the UT-3A controversy. HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 13, 2013, JulyPage: 8-15
Bio-psycho-social effects of a coordinated neurorehabilitation programme: A naturalistic mixed methods study
Authors: Glintborg Chalotte , Hansen Tia G.B.
Published: March 2016

PURPOSE:

Best practice guidelines for neurorehabilitation recommend coordinated rehabilitation programmes to ensure seamless service transitions and comprehensive rehabilitation practices. However, this recommendation for practice and the evidence informing its advancement is based on unexamined assumptions. Therefore, this study investigates bio-psycho-social outcomes and perceptions of a coordinated rehabilitation programme.

METHOD:

In a prospective, naturalistic mixed methods study, rehabilitation outcomes for 82 adults (18–66 years) with moderate to severe acquired brain injury were investigated. Clients who received the coordinated rehabilitation programme KORE ( n = 27) were compared to clients from the same area who received standard rehabilitation prior to the implementation of the KORE programme ( n = 37) and clients who received other coordinated efforts elsewhere ( n = 18). The study employed quantitative data from standardized tests (Functional Independence Measure, Major Depression Inventory, Quality of life, and Impact on Participation and Autonomy Questionnaire, as well as information on return to work and qualitative interviews with clients ( n = 82) and their relatives ( n = 40).

RESULTS:

Outcomes did not improve from hospital discharge to two years later. Notably, physiological recovery had probably been achieved to the extent possible, but depression and reduced psychological well-being remained prevalent across groups. Qualitative interviews suggested several barriers to improvement, such as identity dilemmas and unmet needs for psychological support, while rehabilitation services focused on physical and practical training.

CONCLUSION:

Coordinated interventions do not guarantee comprehensive rehabilitation and better outcomes for clients with acquired brain injury. Psychological support seems to be important and largely unaddressed.
Functional cerebral space theory: Towards an integration of theory and mechanisms of left hemineglect, anosognosia, and anosodiaphoria
Authors: Smith Andrew J. , Campbell Ransom W. , Harrison Patti Kelly , Harrison David W.
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

The current case study presents a 43 year old African American woman admitted to a Tertiary Care Rehabilitation unit at a major medical center for concerns over left-sided anesthesia and weakness. Head scans indicate a right middle cerebral arterial distribution infarct altering blood flow in temporal, parietal, and occipital regions in the right cerebral hemisphere.

OBJECTIVE:

Physician and therapist reports (i.e., speech and occupational therapists) referred the patient for a neuropsychological evaluation for concerns over the patient’s capacity to recognize the severity of her deficits and self-care, with potential rule-outs indicated by the extant literature on right CVA for anosognosia, anosodiaphoria, and left hemibody/hemispace neglect.

METHODS:

The current case integrates interdisciplinary physician notation, magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiogram, observations and reports from speech and occupational therapy, and neuropsychological assessment via standardized tests and neurobehavioral syndrome analysis.

RESULTS:

Evidence was found for co-occurring syndromes of moderate anosognosia, anosodiaphoria, and left hemibody/hemispatial neglect derived from shared functional cerebral space with overlapping temporal, parietal, and occipital damage.

CONCLUSIONS:

Clinical implications are discussed, including recommendations for therapy approaches based on functional cerebral space theory that may indicate the use of known techniques (e.g., for left hemibody neglect) that may also have therapeutic implications for treating other, more mercurial co-occurring syndromes of anosognosia and anosodiaphoria.
Effect of normal-walking-pattern-based functional electrical stimulation on gait of the lower extremity in subjects with ischemic stroke: A self controlled study
Authors: Xu Benlei , Yan Tiebin , Yang Yuanle , Ou Ruiqing , Huang Shuping
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

Functional electrical stimulation is a widely used technique for rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the efficacy of walking-pattern-based four-channel functional electric stimulation and its influence on the gait features of stroke patients with hemiplegia.

METHODS:

A total of 21 stroke patients with hemiplegia were enrolled into the study. The walking gaits of patients were investigated before, during and after walking-pattern-based FES treatment using the gait analysis system. The changes of gait indexes were comparatively analyzed.

RESULTS:

After walking-pattern-based FES therapy, the pace, stride rate, gait cycle, and step length of stroke patients with hemiplegia were 50.19 ± 14.45 cm/s, 36.85 ± 5.85 time/min, 1.6643 ± 0.2626 sec, 80.3333 ± 15.1438 cm, respectively. The motion range of hip and knee joint were 47.5238 ± 10.7453, 56.7619 ± 14.5255, respectively. We found these indexes were significantly improved compared with those before FES treatment ( P <  0.05). The single swing rate (injured extremity/uninjured extremity) after FES treatment was 1.5589 ± 0.4550. The statistical results showed that the gait cycle, pace, stride rat, and single swing rate (injured extremity/uninjured extremity) were significantly improved after FES treatment ( P <  0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results demonstrate that walking-paradigm based FES we developed is effective for treating stroke patients during rehabilitation.
Best facilitated cortical activation during different stepping, treadmill, and robot-assisted walking training paradigms and speeds: A functional near-infrared spectroscopy neuroimaging study
Authors: Kim Ha Yeon , Yang Sung Phil , Park Gyu Lee , Kim Eun Joo , You Joshua (Sung) Hyun
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

Robot-assisted and treadmill-gait training are promising neurorehabilitation techniques, with advantages over conventional gait training, but the neural substrates underpinning locomotor control remain unknown particularly during different gait training modes and speeds.

OBJECTIVE:

The present optical imaging study compared cortical activities during conventional stepping walking (SW), treadmill walking (TW), and robot-assisted walking (RW) at different speeds.

METHODS:

Fourteen healthy subjects (6 women, mean age 30.06, years ± 4.53) completed three walking training modes (SW, TW, and RW) at various speeds (self-selected, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 km/h). A functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) system determined cerebral hemodynamic changes associated with cortical locomotor network areas in the primary sensorimotor cortex (SMC), premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor area (SMA), prefrontal cortex (PFC), and sensory association cortex (SAC).

RESULTS:

There was increased cortical activation in the SMC, PMC, and SMA during different walking training modes. More global locomotor network activation was observed during RW than TW or SW. As walking speed increased, multiple locomotor network activations were observed, and increased activation power spectrum.

CONCLUSIONS:

This is the first empirical evidence highlighting the neural substrates mediating dynamic locomotion for different gait training modes and speeds. Fast, robot-assisted gait training best facilitated cortical activation associated with locomotor control.
Novel kinematic indices for quantifying movement agility and smoothness after cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: de los Reyes-Guzmán Ana , Dimbwadyo-Terrer Iris , Pérez-Nombela Soraya , Monasterio-Huelin Félix , Torricelli Diego , Pons José Luis , Gil-Agudo Angel
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

After cervical Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), upper limb movements made by patients have a lack of smoothness and a hand velocity profile characterized by a high number of velocity peaks.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of the present paper is to propose three novel kinematic indices for quantifying movement agility and smoothness, and to analyze their discriminative capability between healthy and pathological people.

METHODS:

18 people, healthy and two groups of patients with cervical SCI, participated in the study. Kinematic indices in relation to movement agility and smoothness were computed from hand trajectories and velocity profiles during the performance of the ADL of drinking from a glass.

RESULTS:

The proposed indices discriminated between healthy and SCI people. The results are greater in healthy than SCI people. Both smoothness indices detected significant differences between healthy and both SCI groups. Moreover, the Agility index showed capacity for discriminating between both patients groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

The main contribution of this research consists on the proposal of kinematic indices from experimental data, whose results are dimensionless and relative to a pattern of healthy subjects. We hope that kinematic indices proposed are a step toward the standardization of the quantitative assessment of movement characteristics and functional impairments.
Psychometric testing of the modified Care Dependency Scale (Neuro-CDS)
Authors: Piredda Michela , Biagioli Valentina , Gambale Giulia , Porcelli Elisa , Barbaranelli Claudio , Palese Alvisa , De Marinis Maria Grazia
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

Effective measures of nursing care dependency in neurorehabilitation are warranted to plan nursing interventions to help patients avoid increasing dependency.

OBJECTIVE:

The Care Dependency Scale (CDS) is a theory-based, comprehensive tool to evaluate functional disability. This study aimed to modify the CDS for neurological and neurorehabilitation patients (Neuro-CDS) and to test its psychometric properties in adult neurorehabilitation inpatients.

METHODS:

Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed using a Maximum Likelihood robust (MLR) estimator. The Barthel Index (BI) was used to evaluate concurrent validity. Stability was measured using the Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC).

RESULTS:

The sample included 124 patients (mean age = 69.7 years, 54% male). The EFA revealed a two-factor structure with good fit indexes, Factor 1 ( Physical care dependence) loaded by 11 items and Factor 2 ( Psycho-social care dependence) loaded by 4 items. The correlation between factors was 0.61. Correlations between Factor 1 and the BI and between Factor 2 and the BI were r = 0.843 and r = 0.677, respectively ( p <  0.001). The Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were 0.99 and 0.88 (Factor 1 and 2). The ICC was 0.98.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Neuro-CDS is multidimensional, valid, reliable, straightforward, and able to measure care dependence in neurorehabilitation patients as a basis for individualized and holistic care.
Interactive virtual feedback improves gait motor imagery after spinal cord injury: An exploratory study
Authors: Roosink Meyke , Robitaille Nicolas , Jackson Philip L. , Bouyer Laurent J. , Mercier Catherine
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Motor imagery can improve motor function and reduce pain. This is relevant to individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in whom motor dysfunction and neuropathic pain are prevalent. However, therapy efficacy could be dependent on motor imagery ability, and a clear understanding of how motor imagery might be facilitated is currently lacking. Thus, the aim of the present study was to assess the immediate effects of interactive virtual feedback on motor imagery performance after SCI.

Methods: Nine individuals with a traumatic SCI participated in the experiment. Motor imagery tasks consisted of forward (i.e. simpler) and backward (i.e. more complex) walking while receiving interactive versus static virtual feedback. Motor imagery performance (vividness, effort and speed), neuropathic pain intensity and feasibility (immersion, distraction, side-effects) were assessed.

Results: During interactive feedback trials, motor imagery vividness and speed were significantly higher and effort was significantly lower as compared static feedback trials. No change in neuropathic pain was observed. Adverse effects were minor, and immersion was reported to be good.

Conclusions: This exploratory study showed that interactive virtual walking was feasible and facilitated motor imagery performance. The response to motor imagery interventions after SCI might be improved by using interactive virtual feedback.
Neuroprotection and anti-seizure effects of levetiracetam in a rat model of penetrating ballistic-like brain injury
Authors: Caudle Krista L. , Lu Xi-Chun M. , Mountney Andrea , Shear Deborah A. , Tortella Frank C.
Published: March 2016

Purpose: We assessed the therapeutic efficacy of FDA-approved anti-epileptic drug Levetiracetam (LEV) to reduce post-traumatic nonconvulsive seizure (NCS) activity and promote neurobehavioral recovery following 10% frontal penetrating ballistic-like brain injury (PBBI) in male Sprague-Dawley rats.

Methods: Experiment 1 anti-seizure study: 50 mg/kg LEV (25 mg/kg maintenance doses) was given twice daily for 3 days (LEV3D) following PBBI; outcome measures included seizures incidence, frequency, duration, and onset. Experiment 2 neuroprotection studies: 50 mg/kg LEV was given twice daily for either 3 (LEV3D) or 10 days (LEV10D) post-injury; outcome measures include motor (rotarod) and cognitive (water maze) functions.

Results: LEV3D treatment attenuated seizure activity with significant reductions in NCS incidence (54%), frequency, duration, and delayed latency to seizure onset compared to vehicle treatment. LEV3D treatment failed to improve cognitive or motor performance; however extending the dosing regimen through 10 days post-injury afforded significant neuroprotective benefit. Animals treated with the extended LEV10D dosing regimen showed a twofold improvement in rotarod task latency to fall as well as significantly improved spatial learning performance (24%) in the MWM task.

Conclusions: These findings support the dual anti- seizure and neuroprotective role of LEV, but more importantly identify the importance of an extended dosing protocol which was specific to the therapeutic targets studied.
The role of auditory feedback in music-supported stroke rehabilitation: A single-blinded randomised controlled intervention
Authors: van Vugt F.T. , Kafczyk T. , Kuhn W. , Rollnik J.D. , Tillmann B. , Altenmüller E.
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Learning to play musical instruments such as piano was previously shown to benefit post-stroke motor rehabilitation. Previous work hypothesised that the mechanism of this rehabilitation is that patients use auditory feedback to correct their movements and therefore show motor learning. We tested this hypothesis by manipulating the auditory feedback timing in a way that should disrupt such error-based learning.

Methods: We contrasted a patient group undergoing music-supported therapy on a piano that emits sounds immediately (as in previous studies) with a group whose sounds are presented after a jittered delay. The delay was not noticeable to patients. Thirty-four patients in early stroke rehabilitation with moderate motor impairment and no previous musical background learned to play the piano using simple finger exercises and familiar children’s songs.

Results: Rehabilitation outcome was not impaired in the jitter group relative to the normal group. Conversely, some clinical tests suggests the jitter group outperformed the normal group.

Conclusions: Auditory feedback-based motor learning is not the beneficial mechanism of music-supported therapy. Immediate auditory feedback therapy may be suboptimal. Jittered delay may increase efficacy of the proposed therapy and allow patients to fully benefit from motivational factors of music training. Our study shows a novel way to test hypotheses concerning music training in a single-blinded way, which is an important improvement over existing unblinded tests of music interventions.