bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The caecilian amphibian Scolecomorphus kirkii Boulenger as prey of the burrowing asp Atractaspis aterrima Günther: trophic relationships of fossorial vertebrates
Authors: Gower David J. , Rasmussen Jens B. , Loader Simon P. , Wilkinson Mark 
Published: June 2004

AbstractA report is given of an adult caecilian, Scolecomorphus kirkii, found in the gut of a specimen of the snake Atractaspis aterrima from the Udzungwa Mountains, Tanzania. Both predator and prey are largely fossorial in soil, and their ecology is poorly known, such that this is the first reported predator of any scolecomorphid caecilian. The caecilian was ingested head first and much of the flesh from the anterior of the specimen had been digested. The prey/predator mass ratio is 0.48. This value is substantially higher than reported for A. aterrima from West Africa, and refutes the notion that this species feeds only on small prey. Most reported predators of caecilians are snakes, and a brief review is presented.
Spatial ecology of golden jackal in farmland in the Ethiopian Highlands
Authors: Admasu Ermias , Thirgood Simon J. , Bekele Afework , Karen Laurenson M. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe spatial ecology of golden jackal Canis aureus was studied on farmland adjacent to the Bale Mountains National Park in southern Ethiopia during 1998–2000. Three adult and four subadult jackals were captured in leg‐hold traps and radiotagged. The range size of the adult jackals varied from 7.9 to 48.2 km2 and the subadults from 24.2 to 64.8 km2 . These ranges are the largest recorded for this species. Range overlap of the tagged jackals averaged 54%, which, in conjunction with observations of associations between individuals, suggested that all the tagged jackals belonged to one social group. Tagged jackals were observed alone on 87% of occasions despite the extensive overlap in individual ranges. Pairs consisting of a male and female were the most commonly observed group and larger groups were seen on only five occasions. Jackals in this population appeared less gregarious than observed elsewhere. The jackals used all the habitats available to them, particularly at night when they foraged in Artemesia and Hypericum bush and farmland. During the day they were more frequently found in Hagenia and Juniper woodland and their diurnal resting sites were characterized by thick cover. This is the first detailed study of golden jackals in a human‐modified landscape in Africa and further demonstrates the flexibility in behaviour and ecology exhibited by this species throughout its range.
Spatial ecology of white‐tailed mongoose in farmland in the Ethiopian Highlands
Authors: Admasu Ermias , Thirgood Simon J. , Bekele Afework , Laurenson M. Karen 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe spatial ecology of the white‐tailed mongoose Ichneumia albicauda was studied during November 1998 to February 2000 on farmland adjacent to the Bale Mountains National Park in southern Ethiopia. Four male and one female white‐tailed mongooses were captured and radiotagged. The average range size was 3.2 km2 for three adult males and 2.6 km2 for the female which is larger than previously recorded in savannah habitat. Asymptotic range size was reached at approximately 50 locations for the males and twenty locations for the female. The ranges of the three adult male mongooses overlapped on average only 2% whereas the single female range overlapped with two adjacent males by 81 and 25%, respectively. Twenty per cent of mongoose sightings were of groups that consisted of a male and female. Diurnal resting sites were found amongst rocks or in empty buildings. The mongooses foraged on grassy areas within woodland and bush during nocturnal activity periods. We conclude that white‐tailed mongoose social organization in this agricultural landscape was similar to other solitary mongooses and was characterized by a mosaic of exclusive male ranges overlapping a separate mosaic of smaller female ranges.
Seasonal diet changes of the forest hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni Thomas) based on the carbon isotopic composition of hair
Authors: Cerling Thure E. , Viehl Katja 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe stable carbon and nitrogen isotope composition of forest hog hair is used to estimate seasonal diet changes in forest hogs from Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. This detailed record of diet shows that the forest hogs on Mweya Peninsula consume up to 20% grass at the beginning of the rainy season, and very little grass during the rest of the year. Correlation of isotope patterns between individuals from the same sounder show that a single animal records the group behaviour.
Demographic aspects of sympatric Praomys jacksoni and P. stella in a tropical lowland forest in Kakamega, Kenya
Authors: Waweru Catherine W. , Odanga Jethro E. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractPopulations of coexisting tropical forest rodents Praomys jacksoni and P. (Hylomyscus) stella were investigated to test whether lower relative densities in regenerating forest compared with mature forest were because of poor health and/or reduced chances for females to breed. Relative frequencies, litter size, mass, length of embryos, presence or absence of ecto‐ and/ or endoparasites, and liver condition were recorded and analysed.Higher numbers of either species occurred in the mature compared with regenerating forest. Mottled livers and endoparasites were associated with heavier rodents; litter size related positively to mass of pregnant females in both species. Litter size, embryo size, sex ratios, liver condition, and infestation of ecto‐ and endoparasites were independent of forest and species. Apparently, reduced female density in regenerating forest had no breeding cost on individual females occurring there.
Tree species distribution in forests of the Albertine Rift, western Uganda
Authors: Eilu Gerald , Hafashimana David L. N. , Kasenene John M. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe distribution of trees of diameter ≥ 10 cm was assessed in twelve 1‐ha (20 × 500 m) plots of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP), Kasyoha‐Kitomi Forest Reserve (KKFR), Kibale National Park (KNP) and Budongo Forest Reserve (BFR) in the Albertine Rift, western Uganda. Distribution was analysed at three spatial scales: local (1 ha plots), within individual forests (>300 km2 each) and regional (>56,000 km2). The aim was to classify tree species into Rabinowitz's seven forms of rarity. We recorded 5747 trees in 53 families, 159 genera, and 212 species. Twenty‐two families had one species each while the rest had between two and 25 species. Number of species was highest in the family Euphorbiaceae (25 species) followed by Meliaceae and Rubiaceae with sixteen species each. Based on Rabinowitz's forms of rarity, 93% of the species were geographically widespread, 47% were restricted to a single forest type, while 41% occurred at densities of <1 individual ha−1. Ubiquitous common species with high frequency and high local abundance occurred in the Meliaceae, Flacourtiaceae, Moraceae and Apocynaceae families. Conservation of geographically widespread species should focus on landscape rather than site specific approaches. The rarest species would benefit from species‐specific strategies.
Woodland loss and restoration in a savanna park: a 20‐year experiment
Authors: Western David , Maitumo David 
Published: June 2004

AbstractWoodland loss is a major cause of biodiversity decline in African savanna parks. Decisions about whether remedial steps are possible and warranted depend on the cause. Climate, fire, elephants and human impact, often in combination, have been cited as major causes. The almost complete extinction of woodland in Amboseli National Park since 1950 has been at the centre of such debate. A 20‐year study based on an experimental design to test overgrazing, pathogen, climate and elephant browsing theories of woodland loss was established in 1981. The experiment showed that elephants alone are preventing regeneration. Based on the outcome of the experiment, a woodland refuge was restored in the centre of the park to maintain biodiversity and demonstrate the management prospects for habitat restoration. A strong interaction of elephants and pastoralists, played out across the ecosystem over many decades, probably accounts for the habitat mosaic and high biological diversity of the ecosystem prior to the establishment of the national park. The restoration of biodiversity in the park will therefore depend on mimicking the shifting mosaic of habitats created by their interaction.
Bird strike incidents involving Kenya Airways flights at three Kenyan airports, 1991–2001
Authors: Owino A. , Biwott N. , Amutete G. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractBird strike data involving Kenya Airways aircraft at three Kenya's international airports located at Mombasa (Moi International Airport), Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) and Kisumu (Kisumu International Airport) have been regularly gathered by Kenya Airways during the period 1991–2001. The Department of Ornithology, National Museums of Kenya, has been a key collaborator in this effort by identifying the bird species, often just from remains of the carcass or a few feathers. A total of 224 bird strike incidents were reported at the three airports during the study period. Nairobi had the highest number of strikes (n = 90), followed by Kisumu (n = 88) and Mombasa (n = 46). Seven bird families, namely Ciconiidae, Accipitridae, Threskiornithidae, Numididae, Ardeidae, Corvidae and Gruidae accounted for most incidents in different phases of aeroplane flights, time of day and seasons. The general trend of bird strike incidents at the three airports showed a consistent increase during the study period, with Nairobi experiencing a significant rise (regression analysis, P = 0.03) over the 10‐year period. This preliminary analysis provides baseline information necessary for bird hazard management at the three airports.
Regeneration, density and size class distribution of tree species used for drum making in central Uganda
Authors: Omeja Patrick , Obua Joseph , Cunningham A. B. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractA study was carried out between 1999 and 2001 in Degeya, Lufuka and Mpanga forests in central Uganda to determine the regeneration, density and size class distribution of trees used for making drums. Thirty sample plots measuring 20 × 20 m were established at 250 m intervals along transects laid in the northeast direction across swamps, mid‐slopes and hilltops. Diameter at breast height (DBH) of trees and number and species of seedlings, saplings and poles of six tree species were determined. The tree species were: Antiaris toxicaria, Erythrina excelsa, Ficus mucuso, Ficus exasperata, Funtumia africana and Polyscias fulva. Antiaris toxicaria was the most abundant and P. fulva was the least abundant in the forests. The intensity of use and concentration on a limited number of tree species have resulted in localized exploitation with potential knock‐on effects on the forests’ health. On‐farm tree planting by local communities should be encouraged to supply logs for making drums and reduce pressure on the forests.
The present conservation status of Juniperus forests in the South Ethiopian Endemic Bird Area
Authors: Borghesio Luca , Giannetti Fabio , Ndang'ang'a Kariuki , Shimelis Anteneh 
Published: June 2004

AbstractField survey data and Landsat satellite imagery were used to evaluate the conservation status of two Juniperus forests (Mankubsa and Arero) in the south Ethiopian Endemic Bird Area. Forest cover and dense woodland decreased in both areas between 1986 and 2002, but rates of habitat change and human impact were greater at Mankubsa than at Arero. We suggest that at Mankubsa increased grazing pressure, agricultural expansion, commercial fuelwood and timber exploitation are threatening forest persistence, while most of the degradation at Arero is because of the grazing of domestic animals. Conservation efforts should focus on creating tree plantations and improving forest resource use efficiency at Mankubsa, while at Arero better results could be obtained by improving pasture quality in the habitats surrounding the forest.
In vivo confocal microscopy of Thygeson's superficial punctate keratitis
Authors: Cheng Lulu L , Young Alvin L , Wong Angus KK , Law Ricky WK , Lam Dennis SC 
Published: June 2004

AbstractA 56‐year‐old Chinese man diagnosed with Thygeson's keratitis by clinical biomicroscopy was examined using a tandem scanning confocal microscope. Among normal superficial epithelial cells, clumps of markedly enlarged epithelial cells were identified. Multiple highly reflective filamentary structures were observed in the deeper layers. Most of these lesions were linear; some demonstrated curled ends and others demonstrated branching lesions with ‘sprouts’. No inflammatory cells were evident in the areas of corneal stroma sampled. In vivo confocal microscopy may be helpful in the diagnosis of Thygeson's superficial keratitis. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first in vivo confocal images of focal desquamation of epithelium and intraepithelial hyper‐reflective linear lesions in English literature.
Assessment of optic nerve head topographic parameters with a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope
Authors: Durukan A Hakan , Yucel Iclal , Akar Yusuf , Bayraktar M Zeki 
Published: June 2004

Abstract Aim: To assess the disc area, age, sex, laterality (side of the eyes) and refractive error dependent differences in optic nerve head topographic parameters in a normal population. Methods: Optic nerve head topographic analysis of both eyes of 551 healthy Turkish subjects aged 11−75 years (1102 eyes) was performed using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope, the Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph II (HRT II). The effects of disc size, sex, laterality (side of the eyes), age and refractive error on optic nerve head topographic parameters were assessed. Subjects were divided into three different age groups (<30 years, 30−60 years, >60 years) and three different disc area groups (<2.00 mm2, 2.00−2.25 mm2, >2.25 mm2). Disc area, topography standard deviation and a total of 12 topographic parameters were calculated by HRT II for each subject. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t‐test, multiple regression analysis, Tukey‐HSD test, anova and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: A total of 543 subjects (298 women and 245 men) were included in the study. The mean disc area of the subjects was 2.12 ± 0.47 mm2 (range 1.16−4.98 mm2). The mean refractive error of the subjects was −0.58 ± 1.71 D (range −4.75 D to +4.25 D). The mean cup shape measure was −0.21 ± 0.07 (95% confidence interval −0.07 to −0.35). The disc area was significantly correlated with all of the topographic parameters but two; namely, the cup shape measure and the height variation contour. Significant age‐related differences were detected in four parameters (mean retinal nerve fibre layer [RNFL] thickness, disc area, cup‐to‐disc area ratio, cup area) and significant sex‐related differences were detected three parameters (mean RNFL thickness, height variation contour, RNFL cross‐sectional area). However, there were no significant differences in any of the parameters for laterality and refractive error. The parameter cup shape measure did not correlate with any of the five variables investigated. Conclusion: Cup shape measure was the only optic nerve head topographic parameter that was independent of age, sex, disc area, laterality and the refractive error. It seems to be a promising parameter in evaluation and comparison of the optic discs of normal subjects, with different disc area, age, sex, refraction error and laterality, as being independent of the main variation factors of the disc topography.
In vivo confocal microscopic characteristics of iridocorneal endothelial syndrome
Authors: Grupcheva Christina N , McGhee Charles NJ , Dean Simon , Craig Jennifer P 
Published: June 2004

Abstract Purpose: To analyse five cases of iridocorneal endothelial (ICE) syndrome and describe the microstructural characteristics observed by in vivo confocal microscopy. Methods: All five subjects presented with clinical characteristics suggestive of ICE syndrome and were examined clinically by Orbscan II pachymetry and by in vivo confocal microscopy. At least 600 sequential digital confocal images throughout the z‐axis were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively for each cornea. Results: Clinically, all subjects presented with: minimal to moderate corneal oedema, focal to diffuse ‘beaten metal’ appearance of the corneal endothelium, and varying degrees of iris atrophy. Three subjects had a history of elevated intraocular pressure. In vivo confocal microscopy highlighted two main patterns of endothelial change: small cells (mean maximal diameter of 13.6 ± 1.5 µm), with indistinct borders and very bright and prominent, uniform nuclei (two subjects) and larger, epithelioid‐like cells (mean maximal diameter of 26.6 ± 5.5 µm), with irregular borders and non‐homogenous, diversely shaped nuclei (three subjects). Different degrees of alteration of stromal structure, very prominent corneal nerves and unusual syncytia of keratocytes were also observed. Significant oedema of the basal epithelium with increased reflectivity of the intercellular spaces was prominent in all cases. Conclusions: Although ICE syndrome is considered to be primarily an endothelial disease, in vivo confocal microscopy demonstrated structural alterations throughout the entire cornea even in clinically mild cases. The ability of in vivo confocal microscopy to localize and accurately measure various elements in different corneal layers will assist differentiation of various presentations of ICE syndrome as this technique becomes increasingly available in clinical practice.
Panoptic versus conventional ophthalmoscope
Authors: McComiskie Jayne E , Greer Ristan M , Gole Glen A 
Published: June 2004

Abstract Background: The ‘ease of use’ and accuracy in measurement of the vertical optic cup/disc ratio (VCDR) was compared between the conventional direct ophthalmoscope (CO) and Panoptic direct ophthalmoscope (PO) in a group of ‘naïve’ first year medical students to determine which would be more suitable for non‐ophthalmologists. Methods: In this quasi‐randomized method comparison study, eight students received an introductory session on ophthalmoscopy then examined 18 eyes (9 left, 9 right) with each ophthalmoscope in a private practice. The subjects were the eight students themselves plus two other subjects. Each subject (n = 10) had one eye dilated. Students determined a VCDR and a subjective score of ‘ease of use’ on a scale of 1 (difficult) to 10 (easy). A consultant ophthalmologist (GAG) determined the benchmark VCDR for each eye with each ophthalmoscope. Results: Of 288 eye examinations, there were 111 measure­ments of VCDR using the CO (47 undilated, 64 dilated), and 140 measurements using the PO (75 undilated, 65 dilated). Differences in the students’ estimated VCDR and the benchmark were similar for the CO and PO (P = 0.67). ‘Ease of use’ was scored in 288 eyes and the median score was higher in the PO overall (CO: median 8, IQR 6−9; PO median 9, IQR 8−10; P < 0.0001), and within each session (P < 0.0001 for each session). Conclusions: Medical students found the PO much easier to use, with accuracy of rating the VCDR similar to the CO. This comparison would support the wider use of the PO amongst medical students, general practitioners and other primary care providers.
Attitudes towards and perceptions of visual loss and its causes among Hong Kong Chinese adults
Authors: Lau Joseph Tak Fai , Lee Vincent , Fan Dorothy , Lau Mason , Michon John 
Published: June 2004

Abstract Background: As part of a study of visual function among Hong Kong Chinese adults, their attitudes and perceptions related to visual loss were examined. These included fear of visual loss, negative functional impacts of visual loss, the relationship between ageing and visual loss and help‐seeking behaviours related to visual loss. Demographic factors associated with these variables were also studied. Methods: The study population were people aged 40 and above randomly selected from the Shatin district of Hong Kong. The participants underwent eye examinations that included visual acuity, intraocular pressure measurement, visual field, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy. The primary cause of visual disability was recorded. The participants were also asked about their attitudes and perceptions regarding visual loss using a structured questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of bilateral visual disability was 2.2% among adults aged 40 or above and 6.4% among adults aged 60 or above. Nearly 36% of the participants selected blindness as the most feared disabling medical condition, which was substantially higher than conditions such as dementia, loss of limbs, deafness or aphasia. Inability to take care of oneself (21.0%), inconvenience related to mobility (20.2%) and inability to work (14.8%) were the three most commonly mentioned ‘worst impact’ effects of visual loss. Fully 68% of the participants believed that loss of vision is related to ageing. A majority of participants would seek help and advice from family members in case of visual loss. Conclusions: Visual function is perceived to be very important by Hong Kong Chinese adults. The fear of visual loss is widespread and particularly affects self‐care and functional abilities. Visual loss is commonly seen as related to ageing. Attitudes and perceptions in this population may be modified by educational and outreach efforts in order to take advantage of preventive measures.
Prospective randomized evaluation of diode‐laser and cryotherapy in prethreshold retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Azad Raj Vardhan , Pasumala Laxminarayana , Kumar Harsh , Talwar Dinesh , Pal Raj , Paul Vinod Kumar , Chandra Parijat 
Published: June 2004

Abstract Purpose: To study the efficacy of indirect diode laser photocoagulation and cryotherapy in prethreshold retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods: Thirty‐six eyes of 18 premature infants less than 34 weeks gestational age and/or less than 1600 g birth weight with prethreshold ROP were prospectively randomized to treatment with either indirect laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy. Prethreshold ROP was defined as any stage of ROP in zone I with plus disease; or stage 3 with three or more contiguous clock hours or five or more total clock hours of involvement of retina in zone II with plus disease but less than threshold disease. Regression of the ROP was assessed for a minimum period of 6 months. Results: Regression of ROP occurred in all 36 eyes (100%) in both groups. Conclusions: Excellent results are achieved if ROP is treated at the prethreshold stage with both indirect laser photocoagulation and cryotherapy. Although laser has definite advantages, cryotherapy can be considered as an alternative modality of treatment in developing countries due to economic reasons.