bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of Native Bamboo for Understory Birds in Chilean Temperate Forests
Authors: Reid Sharon , Díaz Iván A. , Armesto Juan J. , Willson Mary F.
Published: September 2019

In South American temperate rainforests, five endemic understory birds (four Rhinocryptidae and one Furnariidae) are often associated with the main understory plant, the native bamboo Chusquea valdiviensis (Poaceae: Bambusoideae). We studied the effects of bamboo cover on species abundance and richness of those understory birds and explored the functions of bamboo as food resource and escape cover. In Chiloé Island (42°S), southern Chile, we selected four old-growth forest patches >100 ha and in each patch conducted bird surveys in six plots with >70% understory cover. Three plots were dominated by native bamboo and three plots had a sparse bamboo cover. Bird abundance (point counts) was significantly correlated with both total understory cover and percentage of bamboo cover but was not correlated with other kinds of understory plant cover. Bird species richness was positively correlated with bamboo cover and negatively correlated with other kinds of understory cover but unrelated to total understory cover. Leaf-gleaners Magellanic Tapaculos (Scytalopus magellanicus), Ochre-flanked Tapaculos (Eugralla paradoxa), and Des Murs's Wiretails (Sylviorthorhynchus desmursii), and the ground-gleaner Chucao Tapaculos (Scelorchilus rubecula) were more abundant in high-bamboo plots; but the ground-gleaner Black-throated Huet-huet (Pteroptochos tarnii) was recorded more times in plots with low-bamboo cover.

Availability of invertebrates per unit of understory dry mass did not differ between high- and low-bamboo plots; but plant biomass was greater in high-bamboo plots, so total invertebrate abundance per plot was higher there. Ground-litter invertebrate abundance was similar in all plots. To examine escape-cover preferences, nine captured Chucao Tapaculos were released in front of two different understory scenarios (high-bamboo cover or bamboo-free understory); 88% of released birds moved into bamboo cover. We suggest that the structure of native bamboo understory is critical for the maintenance of four of those species, and retaining bamboo cover in managed stands may help minimize the effect of logging on understory birds.
Nesting Ecology of White-Winged Scoters (Melanitta Fusca Deglandi) at Redberry Lake, Saskatchewan
Authors: Traylor Joshua J. , Alisauskas Ray T. , Kehoe F. Patrick
Published: September 2019

Population surveys indicate a trend of declining abundance of scoters (Melanitta spp.) in North America. Little is known about changes in life-history traits that may be responsible for the recent population decline of White-winged Scoters (Melanitta fusca deglandi). Therefore, we studied nesting ecology of White-winged Scoters at Redberry Lake, Saskatchewan, during the summers of 2000–2001. We found 198 nests and examined nest-site selection by comparing habitat features of successful nests, depredated nests, and random sites. Discriminant function analysis differentiated habitat features—measured at hatch—of successful nests, depredated nests, and random sites; lateral (r = 0.66) and overhead (r = 0.35) concealment were microhabitat variables most correlated with canonical discriminant functions. We also modeled daily survival rate of nests as a function of year, linear and quadratic trends with nest age, nest initiation date, and seven microhabitat variables. Nest survival from a time-constant model (i.e. Mayfield nest-success estimate) was 0.35 (95% CL: 0.27, 0.43). Estimates of nest success were lower than those measured at Redberry Lake in the 1970s and 1980s. Nest survival increased throughout the laying period and stabilized during incubation, and showed positive relationships with nest concealment and distance to water and a negative relationship with distance to edge. Considering those factors, a model-averaged estimate of nest survival was 0.24 (95% CL: 0.09, 0.42). We concluded that White-winged Scoters selected nesting habitat adaptively, because (1) successful sites were more concealed than depredated sites; (2) nest sites (both successful and depredated) had higher concealment than random sites; and (3) nest sites were on islands, where success is greater than on the mainland.
Clinal Variation in Vocalizations of an Antbird (Thamnophilidae) and Implications for Defining Species Limits
Authors: Isler Morton L. , Isler Phyllis R. , Brumfield Robb T.
Published: September 2019

In avian taxa in which vocalizations are considered innate, such as suboscine passerines, vocal characters are increasingly being used to help determine whether populations have achieved species status. In comparing vocal characteristics of distant populations, however, one must be concerned with the possibility of character gradation through intermediate populations. The first quantitative study of a species in a suboscine family to test for clinal vocal variation, our vocal study found clinal variation in the pace (number of notes per second) of male loudsongs, and revealed that the geographic pattern of the clines was consistent with genetic variation found in the companion molecular study (Brumfield 2005). The result underscores the necessity of searching for intermediacy when analyzing vocalizations of geographically distant populations. Furthermore, given that male loudsong pace was the only vocal character that varied across the intergrading populations, the result also provides support to the guideline that one should expect thamnophilid species to differ in at least three vocal characters (Isler et al. 1998) and indicates that this degree of vocal character differences can be a valuable “yard stick” in determining which thamnophilid populations have achieved biological species status.
Weather in The Breeding Area and During Migration Affects the Demography of a Small Long-Distance Passerine Migrant
Authors: Stokke Bård G. , Møller Anders Pape , Sæther Bernt-Erik , Rheinwald Goetz , Gutscher Hans
Published: September 2019

Migratory birds are subject to the effects of various weather systems during the year. Fluctuations in population size may depend on survivorship of juveniles and adults at various stages of the annual cycle. Severe weather conditions can lower survival, especially in migrating passerines that feed on insects. We investigated the effects of climate and density dependence on survival in a population of Common House-Martins (Delichon urbicum), including variables of weather experienced both in their breeding areas and during autumn migration. Unfavorable weather conditions during autumn migration had a severe negative effect on adult apparent survival, irrespective of sex; whereas temperature in the breeding area and population size explained a significant proportion of variance in juvenile survival. Thus, weather conditions experienced in different areas can regulate various age classes in different ways, which suggests that climate change can have a significant but complex influence on demography in passerine populations.
Molecular Phylogenetics of the Ramphastos Toucans: Implications for the Evolution of Morphology, Vocalizations, and Coloration
Authors: Weckstein Jason D.
Published: September 2019

I reconstructed the phylogeny of 12 Ramphastos toucan taxa using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences. This analysis identified two major groups, including a monophyletic smooth-billed yelping clade and a clade including most, but not all, the channel-keel-billed croakers. Within the R. tucanus and R. vitellinus groups, uncorrected mtDNA divergences are relatively low and mtDNA sequences from several subspecies are paraphyletic. One exception to low divergences within the R. vitellinus group is R. v. ariel from southeastern Brazil, which on average differs from all other R. vitellinus sampled by 2.9%. Character reconstructions on the phylogeny indicate that the ancestral Ramphastos was most likely a large-bodied channel- keel-billed croaker. Furthermore, an assessment of the patterns of bill shape, voice, and both plumage and bare-part coloration characters suggests that bill shape and voice have significant phylogenetic signal but that color characters do not. Sympatric Ramphastos taxa are not closely related in the phylogeny; therefore, character reconstructions indicate that the extreme similarity in coloration patterns between many sympatric Ramphastos pairs is most likely attributable to a combination of convergence or parallelism (homoplasy) and shared ancestral character states (symplesiomorphy).

Filogenética Molecular de los Tucanes del Género Ramphastos: Implicaciones para la Evolución de la Morfología, las Vocalizaciones y la Coloración
Effects of Incubation Conditions and Offspring Sex on Embryonic Development and Survival in the Zebra Finch (Taeniopygia Guttata)
Authors: Gorman Helen E. , Orr Kate J. , Adam Aileen , Nager Ruedi G.
Published: September 2019

Suboptimal conditions during embryonic development can affect offspring fitness. Both egg quality and incubation behavior can affect hatching success, hatching mass, and subsequent offspring performance. These effects may differ between male and female offspring. We manipulated the prebreeding body condition of Zebra Finches (Taeniopygia guttata), using diets of different protein content. To separate possible effects on egg quality of parental body condition and incubation conditions, we did a cross-fostering experiment. We analyzed embryo survival and hatching mass with respect to body condition of the egg-laying parent, body condition of the incubating foster parent, and offspring sex. Embryos were not affected by the condition of the egg-laying parent. Eggs incubated by parents in better condition suffered less embryo mortality than those incubated by parents in poorer condition, but only when overall embryo mortality was low. Hatching mass was also affected by the incubating foster parent’s body condition. And hatchlings incubated by parents in good condition were heavier than those incubated by parents in poor condition. Female hatchlings from late-laid eggs were heavier, in comparison with the size of the egg from which they hatched, than female hatchlings from earlier-laid eggs. No such effect was found for males. Therefore, male and female embryos may differ in their sensitivity to suboptimal conditions during embryonic development. These results suggest that parental body condition during incubation can affect offspring fitness.

Efectos de las Condiciones de Incubación y el Sexo de las Crías sobre el Desarrollo Embrional y la Supervivencia en Taeniopygia guttata
Nest Survival in Dusky Canada Geese (Branta Canadensis Occidentalis): Use of Discrete-Time Models
Authors: Grand James B. , Fondell Thomas F. , Miller David A. , Anthony R. Michael
Published: September 2019

The Dusky Canada Goose (Branta canadensis occidentalis) population that breeds in the Copper River Delta, Alaska, has declined substantially since the late 1970s. Persistent low numbers have been attributed to low productivity in recent years. We examined patterns in survival rates of 1,852 nests to better understand ecological processes that influenced productivity during 1997-2000. We compared 10 nonparametric models of daily survival rate of nests (DSR) that included variation among years, calendar dates, nest initiation dates, and nest ages with equivalent models based on parametric functions. The unequivocal best model included patterns of DSR that varied among discrete periods of years, calendar dates, and nest ages. Generally, DSR was low early in the nesting season and higher midseason. Across years, patterns in DSR were most variable early and late in the nesting season. Daily survival rates of nests declined between the first and second week after initiation, increased until the fourth week, and then declined during the last week before hatch. Nest survival probability estimates ranged from 0.07 to 0.71 across years and nest initiation dates. Mean rates of nest survival ranged between 0.21 and 0.31 each year. We suggest (1) considering models that do not limit estimates of daily nest survival to parametric forms; (2) placing greater emphasis on sample size when nests are rare, to obtain accurate estimates of nest survival; and (3) developing new techniques to estimate the number of nests initiated.

Supervivencia de los Nidos en Branta canadensis occidentalis: Uso de Modelos de Tiempo Discreto
The Geographic Mosaic of Coevolution.
Authors: Temeles Ethan J.
Published: September 2019

The following critiques express the opinions of the individual evaluators regarding the strengths, weaknesses, and value of the books they review. As such, the appraisals are subjective assessments and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or any official policy of the American Ornithologists' Union.
Telomere Shortening in a Long-Lived Marine Bird: Cross-Sectional Analysis and Test of an Aging Tool
Authors: Juola Frans A. , Haussmann Mark F. , Dearborn Donald C. , Vleck Carol M.
Published: September 2019

A correlation between length of telomere restriction fragments (TRFs) and age has recently been demonstrated in several bird species. Comparisons of different-aged individuals within a population have shown that TRFs typically shorten with age and that this shortening continues throughout the life span of the species. In addition, it has been shown that telomere rate-of-change (TROC) correlates tightly with life span across several bird species. Previous studies of long-lived birds, however, have shown exceptions to these trends, demonstrating no declines in TRF length in adults in some cases and increases in TRF length with age in other cases. Here, we report known ages of individuals from a colony of Great Frigatebirds (Fregata minor) based on recaptures of leg-banded birds, including two individuals that were at least 44 years of age, the oldest Great Frigatebirds ever reported. Using a previously developed molecular technique, we report a predictable, nonlinear decline of TRF length with age in this population. Telomere restriction fragments decline more rapidly early in life but continue to shorten throughout the life span examined. The rate of decline in TRF for this species does not fit the tight correlation previously reported between TROC and life span in other species. Finally, we tested the ability to estimate age and age structure of breeding females on the basis of the calibration of TRF length and individuals of known age. Because of the slow telomere-attrition rate and the variability observed in TRF lengths at given ages, estimations of age of individuals and of estimated age structure of breeding birds in this population are not particularly reliable.

Encogimiento del Telómero en un Ave Marina Longeva: Análisis de Secciones Cruzadas y Evaluación de una Herramienta de Envejecimiento
Occupancy Estimation and Modeling
Authors: Peterson James T. , Mordecai Rua S.
Published: September 2019

The following critiques express the opinions of the individual evaluators regarding the strengths, weaknesses, and value of the books they review. As such, the appraisals are subjective assessments and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or any official policy of the American Ornithologists' Union.
Vegetative and Fruit Resources as Determinants of Habitat use by Mature-Forest Birds During the Postbreeding Period
Authors: Vitz Andrew C. , Rodewald Amanda D.
Published: September 2019

Recent studies have demonstrated that many birds of mature forests heavily use early-successional habitat during the postbreeding period. Two frequently invoked hypotheses to explain these shifts are that postbreeding birds select (1) dense cover to reduce risk of predation and (2) abundant fruit resources to facilitate foraging. Using mist nets between 15 June and 16 August in 2002 and 2003, we captured mature-forest birds during the postbreeding period in 12 regenerating hardwood clearcuts (three to seven years old) in southeast Ohio. Vegetation structure and fruit resources were measured at nine net locations within each clearcut. We applied an information-theoretic approach, where we used vegetative and fruit variables as predictors in seven a priori models to evaluate how habitat factors might explain capture rates. In two seasons, we captured 1,089 hatch-year (HY) and 445 after-hatch-year (AHY) postbreeding birds of 32 mature-forest species. In general, models reflecting habitat structure (density of low vegetation, canopy height) best explained variation in capture rates, which were negatively related to the density of low vegetation (<1.5 m) and positively related to canopy height. Extremely dense low vegetation may be disadvantageous if it inhibits movements and provides cryptic locations for ground predators. Instead, habitats with greater vertical structure (e.g., taller vegetation) and relatively less dense low vegetation below may provide better protection from aerial and ground predators. Overall, results suggest that vegetation structure may explain high use of early-successional forests by many birds during the postbreeding period, though fruit may be the most important factor for seasonal frugivores.

Recursos Vegetativos y de Frutos como Determinantes del Uso de Hábitat por Aves de Bosque Maduro Durante el Período Posterior a la Reproducción
Aspects of the Hindlimb Morphology of Some Australian Birds of Prey: A Comparative and Quantitative Study
Authors: Einoder Luke D. , Richardson Alastair M. M.
Published: September 2019

We quantified the extent of adaptive radiation in the evolution of the hindlimb in the bird-of-prey community on Tasmania. Assessments of the ecological capabilities of raptor species are often based on a visual inspection of their hindlimb structure, with little recourse to direct biomechanical or functional evidence. We examined the links between hindlimb structure and patterns of diet, foraging, and habitat use in raptors by analytically investigating tarsus, toe, and talon measurements. We identified groupings on the basis of dietary preference, hunting-killing technique, and phylogeny. We found that the bird-catching specialists, which possessed relatively long digits with short talons, were consistently separable. The large-mammal and fish specialists were equipped with relatively short and robust tarsi, and short digits with long and robust talons. The hindlimbs of medium-mammal specialists were characterized by long digits and a large digit 1 talon. However, the generalist group did not possess any specializations, because their structural elements were comparable to those of other dietary groups. An association was found between the ratio of toe to talon length and the selective pressures of prey capture and ease of killing. Morphological variation in this feature was consistent with phylogeny, because the Accipitridae were characterized by a larger ratio of toe to talon length on digits 1 and 2 than the Falconidae, and the diurnal raptors possessed an interdigital pattern of larger variation in ratio of toe to talon length than the nocturnal raptors. No link was found between dietary habit and tarsus length or robustness, because these features were apparently attributed to variations in hunting style. Our analysis highlights the interrelationship between the morphology of hindlimb structure and the functional pressures associated with predatory lifestyles.

Aspects de la morphologie des membres postérieurs de quelques oiseaux de proie australiens : Une étude comparative et quantitative
The Sound Approach to Birding: A Guide to Understanding Bird Sound
Authors: Robbins Chandler S.
Published: September 2019

The following critiques express the opinions of the individual evaluators regarding the strengths, weaknesses, and value of the books they review. As such, the appraisals are subjective assessments and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or any official policy of the American Ornithologists’ Union.
Chemosensory deficiency may render island-dwelling lizards more vulnerable to invasive predators
Authors: Van Moorleghem Charlotte , Huyghe Katleen , Van Damme Raoul
Published: September 2019

Newly introduced predators constitute a major threat to prey populations worldwide. Insular prey animals in particular often do not succeed in overcoming their naivety towards alien predators, making them specifically vulnerable. Why this is the case remains incompletely understood. Here, we investigate how the ability to detect and respond to predator chemical cues varies among populations of the Dalmatian wall lizard, Podarcis melisellensis. Lizards were sampled from five locations in south-eastern Croatia (one mainland location and four islands) that varied in the composition of their predator community. We observed the lizards’ behaviour in response to chemical cues of native saurophagous snakes (the Balkan whip snake, Hierophis gemonensis, and eastern Montpellier snake, Malpolon insignitus) and an introduced mammalian predator (the small Indian mongoose, Herpestes auropunctatus – a species held responsible for the loss of numerous insular reptile populations worldwide). Mainland lizards showed elevated tongue-flick rates (indicative of scent detection) as well as behaviours associated with distress in response to scents of both native and introduced predators. In sharp contrast, island lizards did not alter their behaviour when confronted with any of the predator cues. Alarmingly, even lizards from islands with native predators (both snakes and mammals) and from an island on which mongooses were introduced during the 1920s were non-responsive. This suggests that insular populations are chemosensorily deprived. As failure at the predator-detection level is often seen as the most damaging form of naivety, these results provide further insight into the mechanisms that render insular-living animals vulnerable to invasive species.
Searching for Virtue Ethics: A Survey of Social Work Ethics Curriculum and Educators
Authors: Pawar Manohar , Hugman Richard , Anscombe A W (Bill) , Alexandra Andrew
Published: September 2019

This article discusses whether, and to what extent, virtue ethics is covered in the social work ethics curriculum and views of social work ethics educators in Australia. Drawing on a survey of social work ethics curriculum and education, it presents the nature and scope of social work ethics subjects in terms of learning outcomes; overall curriculum content; textbooks used; teaching approaches, challenges and strategies for teaching; and social work ethics educators’ views about teaching virtue ethics. It argues that attention to virtues is largely absent in terms of consciously developing certain qualities and character. The findings, conclusions and implications of the study will be useful to social work researchers, educators and practitioners alike.
Gazing at “It”: An Intersectional Analysis of Transnormativity and Black Womanhood in Orange is the New Black
Authors: Thomas Victoria E
Published: September 2019

Transgender representations are predominantly negative and represent trans identities in dehumanizing tropes. I analyze the sole Black. transgender character on Orange is the New Black, Sophia Burset, to theorize a framework for transgender subjectivity that interrupts dehumanizing tropes. Sophia’s narrative on the show constructs transgender subjectivity through Sophia’s medical transformation, relationship with a Catholic nun, and lack of community with Black, cisgender women in prison. I employ theory from Black feminism and transgender media studies to analyze Sophia’s medical transition, interpersonal relationships, and political ideologies. Ultimately, Sophia Burset’s narrative functions as a non-threatening trans woman to alleviate transphobia and render Blackness invisible in Laverne Cox’s embodiment of Sophia Burset.
Plumage Convergence in Picoides Woodpeckers Based on a Molecular Phylogeny, With Emphasis on Convergence in Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers
Authors: Weibel Amy C. , Moore William S.
Published: September 2019

Adult and juvenile plumage characters were traced onto a well-resolved molecular based phylogeny for Picoides woodpeckers, and a simple phylogenetic test of homology, parallelism, and convergence of plumage characters was performed. Reconstruction of ancestral character states revealed multiple events of independent evolution of derived character states in most characters studied, and a concentrated changes test revealed that some plumage characters evolved in association with habitat type. For example, there was a statistically significant association between loss of dorsal barring and use of densely vegetated habitats among Picoides species. Two analyses indicated that convergence, as opposed to parallel evolution or shared ancestry, underlies the similarity in plumage patterns between the Downy (Picoides pubescens) and Hairy (P. villosus) Woodpeckers. Possible causal explanations for convergence in plumage patterns may include mimicry and interspecific territoriality.
Estimating Shorebird Numbers at Migration Stopover Sites
Authors: Farmer Adrian , Durbian Frank
Published: September 2019

We describe a method for estimating the totalnumber of shorebirds that use a migration stopoversite during spring and fall migration. We combinedweekly shorebird counts with parameter estimatesfor detection probability, sampled proportion, andlength of stay on the Squaw Creek National WildlifeRefuge. Double sampling was used to determinedetection probability and estimated values variedamong wetland units from a low of 0.07 to a high of0.82. The sampled proportion of most wetland unitswas 100% but was lower in some of the largerunits. Length of stay (measured for Pectoral[Calidrismelanotos] and LeastSandpipers [C.minutilla] combined)averaged 10.0 days in spring and3.7 days in fall. Spring shorebird numberswere approximately five times greater than fallnumbers on the Refuge. Annual shorebird numbersvaried among years from an estimated low in 2003 of15 734 to a high in 2002 of 69 570.Peak daily counts during study years averaged only12% of estimated spring totals and 4%of fall totals. An estimate of shorebird numbersbased on summing weekly counts, not corrected fordetection probability or sampled proportion, wouldhave been only 21% (spring) to31% (fall) of the total number ofbirds. These results reveal that peak counts andnonadjusted counts can significantly underestimatethe number of shorebirds that use migrationstopover sites in the midcontinent of NorthAmerica.
Differences in Plumulaceous Feather Characters of Dabbling and Diving Ducks
Authors: Dove Carla J , Agreda Ana
Published: September 2019

We examined variation in five microscopic plumulaceous (downy) feather characters of eighteen species of dabbling (Anatini) and diving (Aythyini, Mergini) ducks to quantify the differences between these tribes, and to explain how the plumulaceous feather ultrastructure in ducks may be influenced by different ecological requirements. Over 75% of the variation in feather characters among these ducks was explained by the first two components of a principal components analysis (PCA). Component 1 explained 51% of the variation and was positively correlated with the characters that quantified the number of barbules with expanded nodes and the number of expanded nodes on barbules. The microscopic feather characters of dabbling ducks (Anatini) have triangular-shaped, expanded nodes on most proximal barbules, whereas diving ducks (Aythyini and Mergini) lack expanded nodes on some barbules. Anatini also have a greater density of expanded nodes per barbule, wider nodes, shorter distance between expanded nodes, and longer barbule length. Further analysis of node density across all taxa showed that as dive depths increase, the number of expanded nodes per barbule decreases, and in the deepest divers many of the barbules completely lack expanded nodes. The significantly greater density of expanded nodes in dabbling ducks suggests that the downy nodes may function to trap more air. Diving species have fewer expanded nodes, less buoyant plumage, and are more efficient at foraging in deeper water than dabbling ducks.
A Reversed Pattern of Association Between Song Dialects and Habitat in the Rufous-Collared Sparrow
Authors: Lijtmaer Darío A. , Tubaro Pablo L.
Published: September 2019

Abstract. We studied song dialects of the Rufous-collared Sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis) in espinal woodland and steppe surrounding Guatraché Lake in Argentina. We recorded 150 individuals and analyzed 14 quantitative song variables. There were significant differences between habitats in song temporal structure. In particular, the internote interval of trills was shorter in the closed compared to the open habitat. This pattern is the reverse of what is usually found in this species, although it has previously been detected in another area of the region in which this study was conducted. This region is characterized by strong winds, which could be related to the reversed pattern found. Song frequencies were lower in the closed woodland habitat than in the open steppe, which also contrasts with the pattern usually found in this species. We also recorded and analyzed the songs in a portion of the area in which the woodland was converted into grassland during the last century. The temporal structure of songs in the converted area was intermediate between song structures in the original habitats and frequencies were lower in the converted area than in both original habitats. Song structure appears to have changed after habitat conversion, but this cannot be confirmed with the data at hand because of the lack of recordings obtained before habitat change.
Isotopic Evidence for Sources of Nutrients Allocated to Clutch Formation by Harlequin Ducks
Authors: Bond Jeanine C. , Esler Daniel , Hobson Keith A.
Published: September 2019

Abstract. Waterfowl employ a broad array of strategies for acquiring the energy and nutrients needed for egg formation, ranging from storage of endogenous reserves prior to arrival on breeding areas to complete reliance on exogenous food sources available at breeding sites. We used stable isotope analyses (δ13C and δ15N) to quantify the relative nutrient inputs to Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) eggs and, therefore, to identify the strategy of nutrient acquisition and allocation used by females to meet the demands of egg production. Marine-derived endogenous nutrients are isotopically more enriched than freshwater dietary nutrients for Harlequin Ducks that migrate between marine wintering grounds and terrestrial breeding grounds. There was little evidence that endogenous reserves stored on marine wintering areas were allocated to clutch formation. Therefore, Harlequin Ducks relied on food available in streams on breeding grounds for egg formation, and reserves stored on marine areas were likely used during other energetically and nutritionally demanding periods.
IL-13 mRNA Tissue Content Identifies Two Subsets of Adult Ulcerative Colitis Patients With Different Clinical and Mucosa-Associated Microbiota Profiles
Authors: Butera Alessia , Di Paola Monica , Vitali Francesco , De Nitto Daniela , Covotta Francesco , Borrini Francesco , Pica Roberta , De Filippo Carlotta , Cavalieri Duccio , Giuliani Alessandro , Pronio Annamaria , Boirivant Monica
Published: September 2019

Background and Aims

A personalized approach to therapy hold great promise to improve disease outcomes. To this end, the identification of different subsets of patients according to the prevalent pathogenic process might guide the choice of therapeutic strategy. We hypothesize that ulcerative colitis [UC] patients might be stratified according to distinctive cytokine profiles and/or to a specific mucosa-associated microbiota.

Methods

In a cohort of clinically and endoscopic active UC patients and controls, we used quantitative PCR to analyse the mucosal cytokine mRNA content and 16S rRNA gene sequencing to assess the mucosa-associated microbiota composition.

Results

We demonstrate, by means of data-driven approach, the existence of a specific UC patient subgroup characterized by elevated IL-13 mRNA tissue content separate from patients with low IL-13 mRNA tissue content. The two subsets differ in clinical–pathological characteristics. High IL-13 mRNA patients are younger at diagnosis and have a higher prevalence of extensive colitis than low IL-13 mRNA patients. They also show more frequent use of steroid/immunosuppressant/anti-tumour necrosis factor α therapy during 1 year of follow-up. The two subgroups show differential enrichment of mucosa-associated microbiota genera with a prevalence of Prevotella in patients with high IL-13 mRNA tissue content and Sutterella and Acidaminococcus in patients with low IL-13 mRNA tissue content.

Conclusion

Assessment of mucosal IL-13 mRNA might help in the identification of a patient subgroup that might benefit from a therapeutic approach modulating IL-13.

Podcast

This article has an associated podcast which can be accessed at https://academic.oup.com/ecco-jcc/pages/podcast
Association of Insect-Derived Ear Injury With Yield and Aflatoxin of Maize Hybrids Varying in Bt Transgenes
Authors: Pruter Luke S , Brewer Michael J , Weaver Mark A , Murray Seth C , Isakeit Thomas S , Bernal Julio S
Published: September 2019

Environmental factors have been associated with the production of aflatoxin in maize, Zea mays L., and it is inconclusive whether transgenic, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), maize has an impact on aflatoxin accumulation. Maize hybrids differing in transgenes were planted in two locations from 2014 to 2017. Yield, aflatoxin, and ear injury caused by corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), and fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), were measured across three groups of hybrids differing in transgenes including near-isogenic hybrids, and water-stressed conditions. The hybrid groups consisted of non-Bt hybrids with no Bt transgenes, a second group with one or more Cry-Bt transgenes, and the third group with vegetative insecticidal Bt protein and Cry-Bt transgenes (Cry/Vip-Bt). Across the six data sets derived from 11 experiments, the Cry-Bt and Cry/Vip-Bt hybrids had less ear injury and aflatoxin on average than non-Bt hybrids. The effects of ear injury on yield and aflatoxin were more prominent and consistent in Corpus Christi, TX, where hybrids experienced more water-limited conditions than in College Station, TX. The trend of increased aflatoxin among hybrids with increased ear injury was further resolved when looking at Cry-Bt and Cry/Vip-Bt isogenic hybrids in Corpus Christi. The results supported that the maize hybrids with the inclusion of Cry-Bt and Cry/Vip-Bt transgenes warrant further investigation in an integrated approach to insect and aflatoxin management in sub-tropical rain-fed maize production regions. Research outcomes may be improved by focusing on areas prone to water-stress and by using hybrids with similar genetic backgrounds.
Bombus (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Microcolonies as a Tool for Biological Understanding and Pesticide Risk Assessment
Authors: Klinger Ellen G , Camp Allison A , Strange James P , Cox-Foster Diana , Lehmann David M
Published: September 2019

Bumble bees provide valuable pollination services to many wild and agricultural plants. Populations of some bumble bee species are in decline, prompting the need to better understand bumble bee biology and to develop methodologies for assessing the effects of environmental stressors on these bees. Use of bumble bee microcolonies as an experimental tool is steadily increasing. This review closely examines the microcolony model using peer-reviewed published literature identified by searching three databases through November 2018. Microcolonies have been successfully used for investigating a range of endpoints including behavior, the gut microbiome, nutrition, development, pathogens, chemical biology, and pesticides/xenobiotics. Methods for the initiation and monitoring of microcolonies, as well as the recorded variables were catalogued and described. From this information, we identified a series of recommendations for standardizing core elements of microcolony studies. Standardization is critical to establishing the foundation needed to support use of this model for biological response investigations and particularly for supporting use in pesticide risk assessment.
A comparison of UAV laser scanning, photogrammetry and airborne laser scanning for precision inventory of small-forest properties
Authors: Puliti Stefano , Dash Jonathan P , Watt Michael S , Breidenbach Johannes , Pearse Grant D
Published: September 2019

This study addresses the use of multiple sources of auxiliary data from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and airborne laser scanning (ALS) data for inference on key biophysical parameters in small forest properties (5–300 ha). We compared the precision of the estimates using plot data alone under a design-based inference with model-based estimates that include plot data and the following four types of auxiliary data: (1) terrain-independent variables from UAV photogrammetric data (UAV-SfM); (2) variables obtained from UAV photogrammetric data normalized using external terrain data (UAV-SfMDTM); (3) UAV-LS and (4) ALS data. The inclusion of remotely sensed data increased the precision of DB estimates by factors of 1.5–2.2. The optimal data sources for top height, stem density, basal area and total stem volume were: UAV-LS, UAV-SfM, UAV-SfMDTM and UAV-SfMDTM. We conclude that the use of UAV data can increase the precision of stand-level estimates even under intensive field sampling conditions.
After the Burden Is Lifted: Caregivers' Recovery of Life Satisfaction After the Death or Recovery of a Spouse
Authors: Langner Laura A , Furstenberg Frank F
Published: September 2019

Objective

How does caregivers' life satisfaction shift upon the recovery of an ill spouse? Paradoxically, there is a greater increase in life satisfaction upon death than recovery of a spouse. Our analysis explores this paradox.

Method

We follow the two groups of exiting caregivers longitudinally for 4 years from when the partner is still in need of care until the death (N = 152) or recovery (N = 112) of a previously ill partner, comparing their trajectory of life satisfaction. We use the years 2001–2016 of the German-Socio-Economic Panel Study and a growth curve analysis.

Results

Contrary to our expectations, bereaved caregivers experience a significantly stronger increase in life satisfaction than spouses whose partners recover from a serious illness, even when we stratify by age, gender and initial life satisfaction to account for significantly different subsample composition. Surprisingly, life satisfaction remains unchanged when the partner recovers. Only if a heavy burden in terms of unpaid care and housework hours or prior care need is lifted, do we observe an increase in life satisfaction among spouses with recovering partners, which is like the one experienced by bereaved caregivers.

Discussion

More support for caregivers with high caregiving burdens may alleviate some of the strain associated with spousal caregiving, as—even if the partner dies—a decrease in spousal caregiving hours results in an uplift in life satisfaction.
The cost of safe sex: estimating the price premium for unprotected sex during the Avahan HIV prevention programme in India
Authors: Quaife Matthew , Lépine Aurélia , Deering Kathleen , Terris-Prestholt Fern , Beattie Tara , Isac Shajy , Paranjape R S , Vickerman Peter
Published: September 2019

There is some evidence that female sex workers (FSWs) receive greater earnings for providing unprotected sex. In 2003, the landscape of the fight against HIV/AIDS dramatically changed in India with the introduction of Avahan, the largest HIV prevention programme implemented globally. Using a unique, cross-sectional bio-behavioural dataset from 3591 FSWs located in the four Indian states where Avahan was implemented, we estimate the economic loss faced by FSWs who always use condoms. We estimate the causal effect of condom use on the price charged during the last paid sexual intercourse using the random targeting of Avahan as an instrumental variable. Results indicate that FSWs who always use condoms face an income loss of 65% (INR125, US$2.60) per sex act compared to peers providing unprotected sex, consistent with our expectations. The main finding confirms that clients have a preference for unprotected sex and that policies aiming at changing clients’ preferences and at improving the bargaining power of FSWs are required to limit the spread of HIV.
Thoracic endovascular aortic repair of an aberrant arterial aneurysm with pulmonary sequestration
Authors: Yamamoto Masaki , Okada Hironobu , Nakashima Junko , Anayama Takashi
Published: September 2019

We describe a treatment strategy for an aberrant arterial aneurysm associated with pulmonary sequestration. A 58-year-old man with impending aberrant arterial aneurysm rupture underwent a 2-stage surgery that included an emergency thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) of the descending aorta to occlude the origin of the aberrant artery, followed by lobectomy. TEVAR can lead to faster occlusion of the aneurysm and can avoid operative risk of aneurysm rupture during lobectomy. The aberrant artery was broad where it branched off the aorta and had a short neck, rendering primary ligation or stump-forming unsuitable. Pathological findings revealed the fragility of the aberrant artery; thus, its root was prone to breakdown of the stump after simple aneurysmectomy. Furthermore, TEVAR may reduce graft infection during lobectomy in the second surgery. The 2-stage surgery may be useful for aberrant aneurysms complicated by pulmonary sequestration.
A Newton method for harmonic mappings in the plane
Authors: Sète Olivier , Zur Jan
Published: September 2019

We present an iterative root finding method for harmonic mappings in the complex plane, which is a generalization of Newton’s method for analytic functions. The complex formulation of the method allows an analysis in a complex variables spirit. For zeros close to poles of $f = h + \overline{g}$ we construct initial points for which the harmonic Newton iteration is guaranteed to converge. Moreover, we study the number of solutions of $f(z) = \eta $ close to the critical set of $f$ for certain $\eta \in \mathbb{C}$. We provide a MATLAB implementation of the method, and illustrate our results with several examples and numerical experiments, including phase plots and plots of the basins of attraction.
The Generalized Baker–Schmidt Problem on Hypersurfaces
Authors: Hussain Mumtaz , Schleischitz Johannes , Simmons David
Published: September 2019

The generalized Baker–Schmidt problem (1970) concerns the $f$-dimensional Hausdorff measure of the set of $\psi $-approximable points on a nondegenerate manifold. There are two variants of this problem concerning simultaneous and dual approximation. Beresnevich–Dickinson–Velani (in 2006, for the homogeneous setting) and Badziahin–Beresnevich–Velani (in 2013, for the inhomogeneous setting) proved the divergence part of this problem for dual approximation on arbitrary nondegenerate manifolds. The corresponding convergence counterpart represents a major challenging open question and the progress thus far has only been attained over planar curves. In this paper, we settle this problem for hypersurfaces in a more general setting, that is, for inhomogeneous approximations and with a non-monotonic multivariable approximating function.
Streamlining an existing hip fracture patient pathway in an acute tertiary adult Irish hospital to improve patient experience and outcomes
Authors: Murphy Caitriona , Mullen Eithne , Hogan Karrie , O’toole ronan , Teeling Seán Paul
Published: September 2019

Objective

To improve access for hip fracture patients to surgery within 48 h of presentation to the Emergency Department, and to increase the number of patients receiving pre-operative orthogeriatric review, through streamlining an existing hip fracture patient pathway.

Design

A pre–post design involving a multi-disciplinary team use of the Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control framework integral to Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology, to assess and adapt the existing hip fracture pathway from presentation to Emergency Department to the initiation of surgery.

Setting

A 600-bed teaching hospital in Ireland.

Participants

Nursing, medical, administrative and physiotherapy staff working across Emergency Medicine, Orthogeriatrics and Orthopaedic Specialities and Project management.

Interventions

LSS methodology was used to redesign an existing pathway, improving patient access to ortho-geriatrician assessment, pain relief and surgery in line with the Irish Hip Fracture Data Base Key performance indicators.

Main Outcome Measures

Access to pain relief, access to surgery and volume of patients receiving ortho-geriatric assessment.

Results

The percentage of patients undergoing surgery within 48 h of presentation to Emergency Department increased from 55% to 79% at 3 months, and to 85% at 6 months. Improvements were also achieved in the secondary performance metrics relevant to quality of patient care. All care pathway changes were cost neutral.

Conclusions

Hip fracture surgery within 48 h of presentation to hospital is a recognized standard of hip fracture care associated with decreased length of stay and decreased mortality. With respect to this performance metric, this intervention has contributed to improved patient outcomes.
A Propensity to Murder: Phrenology in Antebellum Medico-Legal Theory and Practice
Authors: Thompson Courtney E
Published: September 2019

This essay explores the uses of phrenological theory in the realm of jurisprudence between the mid-1830s and 1850s, focusing in particular on the adoption and circulation of phrenological language within medico-legal circles through this period. The article begins by contextualizing medical jurisprudence in early America; at the same time that phrenology was gaining ground in the United States, theories of medical jurisprudence were in flux. I next turn to the concept of the propensities in phrenological theory and their relationship to theories of moral insanity developed in the same period. This article concludes with an exploration of explicit and implicit uses of phrenology, focusing on court cases featuring phrenological expertise or language. The article thus suggests both the uses of phrenology for the building of medico-legal expertise and the extent to which phrenological language around the propensities inflected lay and medico-legal discourse around criminal responsibility and insanity.
Fumigation Activities of Methyl Benzoate and Its Derivatives Against the Common Bed Bug (Hemiptera: Cimicidae)
Authors: Larson Nicholas R , Zhang Aijun , Feldlaufer Mark F
Published: September 2019

Common bed bug Cimex lectularius (L.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) infestations are on the rise and due to the development of pesticide resistance they are becoming more difficult to control, affordably. We evaluated a naturally occurring compound methyl benzoate (MB) and related analogs, previously reported to have insecticidal activity on several agricultural pests, for its fumigant action on the common bed bug, C. lectularius L. A discriminating concentration was used to determine the effectiveness of MB, and several of its analogs as fumigants in a laboratory assay. It was found that MB provided >90% control of adult bed bugs in this laboratory fumigant assay. LC50 values were calculated for MB against both a pyrethroid-susceptible and a pyrethroid-resistant strain of common bed bugs. It was determined that both strains were susceptible in this laboratory assay. However, when MB was tested in a field-like assay and compared to a commercially available bed bug control product, it was found to be significantly less effective compared to the commercial product. Our study has found that while MB has the potential to be used as a bed bug control agent, refinements in the delivery system will be needed to increase efficacy under field-like conditions.