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Worldwide, artificial bat roosts (e.g., bat boxes, bark mimics, bat condos) are routinely deployed for conservation, mitigation, and community engagement. However, scant attention has been paid to developing best practices for the use of artificial roosts as conservation tools. Although bats readily occupy artificial roosts, occupancy and abundance data are misleading indicators of habitat quality. Lacking information on bat behavior, health, and fitness in artificial roosts, their conservation efficacy cannot be adequately validated. We considered the proximal and ultimate factors, such as evolutionarily reliable cues, that may prompt bats to preferentially use and show fidelity to suboptimal artificial roosts even when high‐quality alternatives are available. Possible negative health and fitness consequences for artificial roost inhabitants include exposure to unstable and extreme microclimates in poorly designed roosts, and vulnerability to larger numbers of ectoparasites in longer lasting artificial roosts that house larger bat colonies than in natural roosts. Bats using artificial roosts may have lower survival rates if predators have easy access to roosts placed in conspicuous locations. Bats may be lured into occupying low‐quality habitats if attractive artificial roosts are deployed on polluted urban and agricultural landscapes. To advance the science behind artificial bat roosts, we present testable research hypotheses and suggestions to improve the quality of artificial roosts for bats and decrease risks to occupants. Because continued loss of natural roosts may increase reliance on alternatives, such as artificial roosts, it is imperative that this conservation practice be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hawley, VS, Gurchiek, RD, and van Werkhoven, H. Can foot anthropometry predict vertical jump performance? J Strength Cond Res 36(7): 1860–1865, 2022—Vertical jumping is an important element of many sporting activities, and whether anthropometric adaptations can predict jumping performance is of interest. Few studies have specifically considered anthropometric measures of the foot and its link to performance. Furthermore, previous studies have mainly focused on a male subject pool, and whether relationships are consistent across sexes is unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between common anthropometric measures, as well as specific foot measures, and jump performance in men and women. Anthropometric measures of 21 men (age: 22.0 ± 1.5 years; stature: 181.4 ± 6.3 cm; body mass: 85.6 ± 9.4 kg) and 21 women (age: 21.2 ± 1.8 years; stature: 166.1 ± 7.5 cm; body mass: 61.4 ± 11.4 kg) were taken before performing 3 maximal countermovement jumps (CMJs). Correlational analysis was used to determine relationships between anthropometric measures and CMJ height (a priori significance set at p ≤ 0.05, effect size: small >0.1; medium >0.3; large >0.5). There was no significant correlation between anthropometric variables and CMJ height for men, whereas for women, mass (r = −0.585, p = 0.005, large effect), foot length (r = −0.533, p = 0.013, large effect), and toe length (r = −0.604, p = 0.004, large effect) showed significant negative correlations with CMJ height. The unexpected result that smaller feet and toes predicted higher jumps for women warrants further investigation. Furthermore, these results highlight the need to incorporate diverse subject pools, and a need for caution when generalizing across sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex sensor arrays prohibit practical deployment of existing wearables-based algorithms for free-living analysis of muscle and joint mechanics. Machine learning techniques have been proposed as a potential solution, however, they are less interpretable and generalizable when compared to physics-based techniques. Herein, we propose a hybrid method utilizing inertial sensor- and electromyography (EMG)-driven simulation of muscle contraction to characterize knee joint and muscle mechanics during walking gait. Machine learning is used only to map a subset of measured muscle excitations to a full set thereby reducing the number of required sensors. We demonstrate the utility of the approach for estimating net knee flexion moment (KFM) as well as individual muscle moment and work during the stance phase of gait across nine unimpaired subjects. Across all subjects, KFM was estimated with 0.91%BW•H RMSE and strong correlations (r = 0.87) compared to ground truth inverse dynamics analysis. Estimates of individual muscle moments were strongly correlated (r = 0.81–0.99) with a reference EMG-driven technique using optical motion capture and a full set of electrodes as were estimates of muscle work (r = 0.88–0.99). Implementation of the proposed technique in the current work included instrumenting only three muscles with surface electrodes (lateral and medial gastrocnemius and vastus medialis) and both the thigh and shank segments with inertial sensors. These sensor locations permit instrumentation of a knee brace/sleeve facilitating a practically deployable mechanism for monitoring muscle and joint mechanics with performance comparable to the current state-of-the-art. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bat boxes are commonly deployed to mitigate the loss of bat roosting habitat. Due to a dearth of microclimate research, numerous untested commercially available bat boxes, and the uncertain impacts of a rapidly changing climate, the overheating risk presented to bats by bat boxes is largely unquantified. Based on limited research, we know many boxes overheat (i.e., temperatures >40°C). A lack of standardized protocols to evaluate microclimate and misleading information available to the public leads to a murky understanding of risks involved with deploying bat boxes. Herein, we evaluate the thermal tolerance of temperate‐zone bats, delineate areas of concern regarding the risks to temperate‐zone bats when bat boxes are deployed, identify strategies for reducing overheating risk, suggest methods for assessing microclimate, and provide a visual framework to assess overheating risk. Identifying suitable design and placement combinations is crucial to developing region‐specific strategies to mitigate against overheating. We urge consideration of the risks involved with using bat boxes, advocate for rigorous testing before deployment, and suggest using alternatives when possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gait event detection is critical for remote gait analysis. Algorithms using a thigh-worn accelerometer for estimating spatiotemporal gait variables have demonstrated clinical utility in monitoring the gait of patients with gait and balance impairment. However, one may obtain accurate estimates of spatiotemporal variables, but with biased estimates of foot contact and foot off events. Some biomechanical analyses depend on accurate gait phase segmentation, but previous studies using a thigh-worn accelerometer have not quantified the error in estimating foot contact and foot off events.Methods: Gait events and spatiotemporal gait variables were estimated using a thigh-worn accelerometer from 32 healthy subjects across a range of walking speeds (0.56-1.78 m/s). Ground truth estimates were obtained using vertical ground reaction forces measured using a pressure treadmill. Estimation performance was quantified using absolute error, root mean square error, and correlation analysis.Results: Across all strides (N = 3,898), the absolute error in estimating foot contact, foot off, stride time, stance time, and swing time was similar to other accelerometer-based techniques (39 ± 28 ms, 28 ± 28 ms, 11 ± 14 ms, 46 ± 31 ms, and 45 ± 30 ms, respectively). The correlation between reference measurements and estimates of bout-average stride time, stance time, and swing time were 1.00, 0.92, and 0.80, respectively. The (5th, 95th) percentiles of the foot contact and foot off estimation errors were (-91 ms, 51 ms) and (-70 ms, 60 ms), the largest of which amounts to about three samples using the 31.25 Hz sampling frequency used in this study.Significance: Use of the proposed algorithm for estimating spatiotemporal gait variables is supported by the strong correlations with reference measurements. The gait event estimation error distributions provide bounds on the estimated gait events for enforcing gait phase-dependent task constraints for biomechanical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of sprint velocity is useful for evaluating performance and guiding training interventions. In this paper, we describe an adaptive filtering algorithm to estimate sprint velocity using a single, sacrum-worn magneto-inertial measurement unit. Estimated instantaneous velocity, average 10 m interval velocity, and peak velocity during 40 m sprints from the proposed method were compared to a reference method using photocell position-time data. Concurrent validity of the proposed method was assessed using mean absolute error and mean absolute percent error for all velocity estimates. The significance of the mean error was assessed using a factorial ANOVA for average interval velocity and a paired-samples t test for peak velocity. Reliability was assessed using Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement for repeated measures. Average interval velocity was underestimated early in the sprint (− 0.25 to − 0.05 m/s) and overestimated later (0.13 m/s) with mean absolute error between 0.20 m/s (3.95%) and 0.62 m/s (7.78%). The average mean absolute error was 0.45 m/s (7.02%) for instantaneous velocity and 0.63 m/s (7.84%) for peak velocity. The limits of agreement grew progressively wider at greater distances (− 0.59 to 0.34 m/s for 0-10 m and − 1.32 to 1.59 m/s for 30-40 m). The estimation error from the proposed method is comparable to other wearable sensor-based methods and suggests its potential use to assess sprint performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice, PE, Gurchiek, RD, and McBride, JM. Physiological and biomechanical responses to an acute bout of high kicking in dancers. J Strength Cond Res 32(10): 2954–2961, 2018—High-kick precision competitive dance involves the integration of kicking inline, jumping, and turning during a 3-minute routine and causes a disturbance to both aerobic and anaerobic systems. However, no known study has quantified the effect of a hick-kick–specific protocol on blood lactate (BL), heart rate (HR), and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance. A group of adolescent high-kick dancers (n = 20; age = 15.0 ± 1.8 years; height = 161.5 ± 8.2 cm; body mass = 56.3 ± 11.0 kg; and dance team/weight lifting experience = 2.1 ± 0.9 years) participated in this investigation. Participants' BL was collected, and 3 CMJ trials were performed before (PRE) and after (POST) completing the high-kick protocol. The high-kick protocol consisted of intermittent running and kicking in place for a total of 1:45 at a tempo of 160 b·min−1, while average and peak HR (HRavg; HRpeak) were recorded. Jump height (JH), maximal trunk flexion (MTF), take-off angle (TOA), and relative peak power (PP) were determined from PRE and POST CMJ trials. During kicking, HRavg and HRpeak (n = 13) were 172.4 ± 15.7 b·min−1 and 207.0 ± 23.0 b·min−1, respectively. Dancers' (n = 20) BL significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased from 1.5 ± 0.5 to 8.6 ± 1.5 mmol·L−1, and JH and PP significantly decreased from 0.42 ± 0.08 to 0.36 ± 0.04 m and 41.3 ± 5.5 to 38.5 ± 4.0 W·kg−1, respectively, from PRE to POST. No significant changes occurred in MTF and TOA measurements from PRE to POST. The demands introduced during a high-kick–specific protocol can therefore be recognized as a metabolic and mechanical stimulus for fatigue; however, esthetics seem to be unaffected. Such findings may indicate that this modality of dance necessitates supplemental strength and conditioning training similar to other sports to sustain the loads of high-kick dance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the feasibility of using a single inertial measurement unit (IMU) placed on the sacrum to estimate 3-dimensional ground reaction force ( F ) during linear acceleration and change of direction tasks. Force plate measurements of F and estimates from the proposed IMU method were collected while subjects ( n = 15) performed a standing sprint start (SS) and a 45° change of direction task (COD). Error in the IMU estimate of step-averaged component and resultant F was quantified by comparison to estimates from the force plate using Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement (LOA), root mean square error (RMSE), Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient ( r ), and the effect size (ES) of the differences between the two systems. RMSE of the IMU estimate of step-average F ranged from 37.70 N to 77.05 N with ES between 0.04 and 0.47 for SS while for COD, RMSE was between 54.19 N to 182.92 N with ES between 0.08 and 1.69. Correlation coefficients between the IMU and force plate measurements were significant ( p ≤ 0.05) for all values ( r = 0.53 to 0.95) except the medio-lateral component of step-average F . The average angular error in the IMU estimate of the orientation of step-average F was ≤10° for all tasks. The results of this study suggest the proposed IMU method may be used to estimate sagittal plane components and magnitude of step-average F during a linear standing sprint start as well as the vertical component and magnitude of step-average F during a 45° change of direction task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A relationship between stress and the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) has been well established but the cellular mechanisms are poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated effects of stress and stress hormones on colonic descending inhibition and transit in mouse models and human tissues. Methods Stress was applied using water avoidance stress ( WAS) in the animal model or mimicked using stress hormones, adrenaline (5 nM), and corticosterone (1 μM). Intracellular recordings were obtained from colonic circular smooth muscle cells in isolated smooth muscle/myenteric plexus preparations and the inhibitory junction potential ( IJP) was elicited by nerve stimulation or balloon distension oral to the site of recording. Key Results Water avoidance stress increased the number of fecal pellets compared to control ( p < 0.05). WAS also caused a significant increase in IJP amplitude following balloon distension. Stress hormones also increased the IJP amplitude following nerve stimulation and balloon distension ( p < 0.05) in control mice but had no effect in colons from stressed mice. No differences were observed with application of ATP between stress and control tissues, suggesting the actions of stress hormones were presynaptic. Stress hormones had a large effect in the nerve stimulated IJP in human colon (increased >50%). Immunohistochemical studies identified alpha and beta adrenergic receptor immunoreactivity on myenteric neurons in human colon. Conclusions & Inferences These studies suggest that WAS and stress hormones can signal via myenteric neurons to increase inhibitory neuromuscular transmission. This could lead to greater descending relaxation, decreased transit time, and subsequent diarrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonoperative management is now regarded as the best alternative for the treatment of patients with complex blunt liver injuries. However, some patients still require surgical treatment for complications that were formerly managed with laparotomy and a combination of image-guided studies.Methods: We reviewed the medical records of 15 patients who had complex blunt liver injuries that were managed nonoperatively and in which biliary peritonitis developed.Results: Delayed laparoscopy was performed 2-9 days after admission in patients with extensive liver injuries. All 15 patients had developed local signs of peritonitis or a systemic inflammatory response. Laparoscopy was indicated to drain a large retained hemoperitoneum (eight patients), bile peritonitis (four patients), or an infected perihepatic collection (three patients). Laparoscopy was successful in all patients, and there was no need for further interventions.Conclusion: The data indicate that as more patients with complex liver injuries are treated nonoperatively and the criteria for nonoperative management continue to expand, more patients will need some type of interventional procedure to treat complications that historically were managed by laparotomy. At this point, laparoscopy is an excellent alternative that should become part of the armamentarium of the trauma surgeons who treat these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We appreciate the comments by Brack and Sparks (2021) regarding our cautionary perspective piece on how unsuitably hot bat boxes could pose threats to bats. However, we firmly assert that the complex microclimates in bat boxes (and other artificial refuges) are understudied (see also Cowan et al., 2021) and that the cavalier use of unsuitable boxes could expose bats to deadly temperatures. To provide safer artificial habitat for bats, we urge careful consideration of bat box design and placement, as well as additional research on box microclimates and bat responses to boxes. [Extracted from the article]

The evolution of the middle ear from the cynodont craniomandibular bones is one of the key mammalian innovations, and the mechanics underlying this anatomical transformation represents an intriguing paradox. Because the jaw joint of nonmammalian cynodonts was functionally coupled to the inner ear, auditory performance would favor low joint reaction forces. However, this could not be achieved at the expense of feeding performance, favoring high bite forces. The balance of these two seemingly incompatible performance criteria in the context of the morphological diversity of the cynodont lower jaw is poorly understood. Here we derive a series of equations using three dimensional free body analysis that describe the relationship between the orientation and position of the jaw elevator muscles, the position of the jaw articulation relative to the bite point, the joint reaction forces and the bite force in the lower jaw of the nonmammalian cynodont Probainognathus. These equations permit the effects of variation in each variable to be tested independently, yielding three terms that act to limit joint reaction forces without substantially impacting bite force: the reorientation of the resultant muscle force more vertically, shifting the position of the bite point medial to the jaw articulation, and elevating the jaw articulation above the level with the tooth row only when the muscles are oriented principally in the anterior direction. The predictions from our equations provide insights for functional interpretations of patterns of morphological diversity in the cynodont fossil record. They also illustrate that the musculoskeletal configuration of the cynodont lower jaw can be evolutionarily labile without negatively impacting the dual performance criteria of the auditory and feeding system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2001, Colorado has recognized a special type of water right for whitewater parks, which are constructed within a river channel to provide play features for kayakers and other boaters. These water rights, called " recreational in-channel diversions," are unique to Colorado, even though whitewater parks exist in several western states. This Article addresses some of the underlying reasons that recreational in-channel diversions were established in Colorado, and traces the controversy surrounding their recognition by that state's courts and legislature. Over the last decade, however, the controversy has largely died away, and whitewater park rights have now become an accepted part of Colorado water law. This Article reviews these developments, examines the policy choices made by the legislature in enacting two different statutes on recreational in-channel diversions, and offers concluding observations regarding Colorado's experience with whitewater park water rights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eucalyptus longhorned borer, Phoracantha semipunctata (F.) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), is under complete biological control in California following introduction of the encyrtid egg parasitoid, Avetianella longoi Siscaro. The cerambycid congener, Phoracantha recurva Newman¸ subsequently established in the state and has been subject to limited parasitization by the wasp. Behavioral analysis demonstrated that female parasitoids follow the same sequence of ovipositional behaviors when encountering eggs of both beetle species, but discriminate between the species and make a decision to lay an egg only after inserting the ovipositor into an egg. Previous research has demonstrated that the eggs of P. recurva are capable of encapsulating and killing eggs of A. longoi. Eggs of P. semipunctata do not produce a host defense to parasitization. Consequently, the ability of a female to distinguish between the congeneric species has critical fitness consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Intestinal transit assessment in mice using existing methods requires long recording periods or euthanization of animals to localize a tracer. We have developed a novel in vivo method to assess gastrointestinal (GI) transit in mice based on a clinically used 'shapes study'. Methods Mice (n = 70) were gavaged with 5 steel beads and barium 3 h before, with another dose of barium gavaged 10 min before imaging. Mice were fluoroscoped for 20-60 s, and then most of them were euthanized and the GI tract removed to confirm the localization of the beads fluoroscopically. The in vivo and postmortem recordings were analyzed and each bead was scored depending on its location; a total score was calculated by adding individual bead scores. Total scores obtained from the two methods were compared. A group of mice (n = 10) were examined on three occasions, before and after treatment with loperamide or prucalopride. Key Results The stomach and cecum were consistently outlined by barium, serving as reference landmarks. There was an excellent overall correlation between in vivo and postmortem transit scores (r = 0.93). Analysis of scores for individual gut segments revealed high agreement for stomach, cecum, and expelled beads, and moderate agreement for the small bowel and colon. Gastrointestinal transit scores were decreased by loperamide and increased by prucalopride compared with baseline. Conclusions & Inferences Metallic beads are reliably localized by videofluoroscopy in vivo within the GI tract. This novel imaging method enables repetitive measurements of GI transit in vivo and detects changes induced by motility-modifying agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An essay discussing issues related to Great Lakes water and the environment, including the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact in the U.S. is presented. Topics discussed include laws concerning interstate water compacts in Western U.S.; environmental issues in the allocation and management of western interstate rivers; and introduction of the Endangered Species Act.

The water resources of the American West--especially the Southwest--are at risk from climate change, as an already arid region grows even drier, warmer, and more prone to drought. The dual threat of drought and climate change is a particular challenge for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR), which operates hundreds of federal water projects throughout the region. USBR has some authority to deal with these problems under the 2009 SECURE Water Act (for climate change) and the 1992 Drought Relief Act (for drought). This Article considers USBR's climate change and drought programs, examining both the authorities and the implementation. It concludes with recommendations on how USBR could better use the Drought Relief Act to help reduce the impacts of future water shortages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18: 324-331 Abstract Recent studies of molecular and genomic data from the parasitic lice of birds and mammals, as well as their mutualistic endosymbiotic bacteria, are changing the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomy of these organisms. Phylogenetic studies of lice suggest that vertebrate parasitism arose multiple times from free-living book and bark lice. Molecular clocks show that the major families of lice arose in the late Mesozoic and radiated in the early Cenozoic, following the radiation of mammals and birds. The recent release of the human louse genome has provided new opportunities for research. The genome is being used to find new genetic markers for phylogenetics and population genetics, to understand the complex evolutionary relationships of mitochondrial genes, and to study genome evolution. Genomes are informing us not only about lice, but also about their obligate endosymbiotic bacteria. In contrast to lice and their hosts, lice and their endosymbionts do not share common evolutionary histories, suggesting that endosymbionts are either replaced over time or that there are multiple independent origins of symbiosis in lice. Molecular phylogenetics and whole genome sequencing have recently provided the first insights into the phylogenetic placement and metabolic characteristics of these distantly related bacteria. Comparative genomics between distantly related louse symbionts can provide insights into conserved metabolic functions and can help to explain how distantly related species are fulfilling their role as mutualistic symbionts. In lice and their endosymbionts, molecular data and genome sequencing are driving our understanding of evolutionary relationships and classification, and will for the foreseeable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congress established the reclamation program in 1902, and the hundreds of federal water projects built in the twentieth century helped shape the West. Today, the Bureau of Reclamation plays an enormously important role in managing these projects. But with no new big dams to build, the Bureau has been forced to revise its mission to address today's water management challenges, such as stretching finite water supplies and restoring aquatic ecosystems. Through both site-specific enactments and programmatic statutes, Congress in recent years has given the Bureau new authority and direction to address these modern challenges. But Congress has left a significant gap in the Bureau's statutory powers by failing to provide general authority for restoration of ecosystems impaired by reclamation projects. This Article reviews Congress's expressed priorities for the reclamation program since 2002, identifies programmatic statutes intended to help the Bureau address the water issues of today's West, examines the absence of general environmental restoration authority, and concludes with options for legislation through which Congress might provide such authority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation operates hundreds of dams in seventeen western states; the storage and release of water at these dams often causes serious environmental impacts. In operating these dams, however, the Bureau has largely been excused from complying with the environmental review requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This article analyzes relevant NEPA cases involving these Bureau projects, and argues that the Bureau should conduct NEPA reviews for long-term project operations even if they are not legally required. It also describes and critiques District Judge Oliver Wanger's recent decisions applying NEPA to the Bureau's efforts to comply with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in operating the Central Valley Project. The article concludes that the Bureau should use NEPA as a tool for making long-term decisions on project operations, but that courts should not insist on NEPA compliance that would interfere with efforts to protect endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congress established the reclamation program in 1902, and the hundreds of federal water projects built in the twentieth century helped shape the West. Today, the Bureau of Reclamation plays an enormously important role in managing these projects. But with no new big dams to build, the Bureau has been forced to revise its mission to address today's water management challenges, such as stretching finite water supplies and restoring aquatic ecosystems. Through both site-specific enactments and programmatic statutes, Congress in recent years has given the Bureau new authority and direction to address these modern challenges. But Congress has left a significant gap in the Bureau's statutory powers by failing to provide general authority for restoration of ecosystems impaired by reclamation projects. This Article reviews Congress's expressed priorities for the reclamation program since 2002, identifies programmatic statutes intended to help the Bureau address the water issues of today's West, examines the absence of general environmental restoration authority, and concludes with options for legislation through which Congress might provide such authority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous recent papers have demonstrated a central role for genetic factors in the extinction process or have documented the importance of gene flow in reversing population declines. This prompted one recent publication to declare that a revolution in conservation genetics has occurred. Contemporaneously with this revolution are a series of papers demonstrating long-term population persistence for several species despite having little or no detectable genetic variation. In a couple of notable cases, populations have been shown to have survived for centuries at small population size and with depleted levels of genetic variation. These contradictory results demand an explanation. In this review, I will show that these results do not necessarily fly in the face of theory as sometimes stated. The reconciliation of these two sets of observations relies on the incorporation of two major concepts. (1) Genetic factors do not act in a vacuum and it is their interaction with the environment, the strength and type of selection imposed, and the life history of the organism that determine the relative importance of genetic factors to extinction risk. (2) The relationship between molecular estimates of genetic variation and evolutionary potential, the relevance of genetic bottlenecks to adaptive genetic variation, and the nature of the stochastic process of extinction must be better integrated into expectations of population viability. Reports of populations persisting for hundreds of generations with very little detectable genetic variation provide us not only with valuable information but also with hope. However, recent studies suggest that we should not be sanguine about the importance of genetic diversity in the conservation of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study is to introduce a structural vegetation map of the Serengeti ecosystem and, based on the map, to test the relative influences of landscape factors on the spatial heterogeneity of vegetation in the ecosystem. Location This study was conducted in the Serengeti–Maasai Mara ecosystem in northern Tanzania and southern Kenya, between 34° and 36° E longitude, and 1° and 2° S latitude. Methods The vegetation map was produced from satellite imagery using data from over 800 ground-truthing points. Spatial characteristics of the vegetation were analysed in the resulting map using thefragstats software package. Average patch area and nearest neighbour distance (NND) were determined for grassland, shrubland and woodland vegetation types. The heterogeneity of vegetation types was estimated with Simpson’s diversity index ( D). Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to explore the relationships between the spatial characteristics of vegetation and three predictor variables: annual rainfall, coefficient of variation (CV) in annual rainfall, and topographic moisture index (TMI). Results A vegetation map is presented along with a detailed summary of the distribution of land-cover classes and spatial heterogeneity in the ecosystem. Significant relationships were found between vegetation diversity ( D) and TMI, and also between D and average rainfall. The average area of grassland patches showed significant relationships with average rainfall, with rainfall CV and with TMI. Grassland NND was positively associated with average rainfall. Woodland patch area showed a unimodal response to average rainfall and a negative linear association with TMI. Woodland NND showed a U-shaped association with annual rainfall and a weaker positive linear association with TMI. An acceptable model that explained variation in shrubland patch characteristics could not be identified. Main conclusions The vegetation map and analysis thereof resulted in three significant causal explanatory models that demonstrate that both rainfall and topography are important contributors to the distribution of woodlands and grasslands in the Serengeti. These findings further indicate that changes in patch characteristics have a complex interaction with rainfall and with topography. Our results are concordant with recent studies suggesting that percent woody cover in African savannas receiving less than c. 650 mm year−1 is bounded by average annual rainfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being able to accurately estimate the persistence time of populations of endangered plants and animals is central to conservation biology and is of considerable importance in informing land-use decisions. Genetic deterioration (due to inbreeding and random genetic drift) and environmental deterioration (e.g. climate change, pollution and introduced species) clearly contribute to population extinction, however, considerable recent evidence suggests that interactions between genetic deterioration and environmental stress are ubiquitous. The importance of these interactions for potentially reducing persistence times has not been quantified and has not been taken into account by major conservation organizations. Using a computer simulation, we determined that including reasonable estimates of the inbreeding–environment interaction reduces persistence times by 17.5–28.5% (mean=23%) for a wide range of carrying capacities, assumptions concerning the number of lethal equivalents and different regimes for the frequency and magnitude of the stressful environment. We note that the proportional decrease in persistence time with inclusion of the interactions becomes larger (i.e. the interaction becomes more important) as absolute time to extinction gets larger. Thus, inclusion of the interaction is important and surprisingly may be most needed when populations are of intermediate size and are considered relatively safe from environmental and genetic stresses acting independently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is critical to search for, and to apply, robust generalizations in conservation biology as species-specific data on endangered species are often limited. While generalizations are common in conservation genetics, where processes are treated on the scale of generations, the unique population dynamics of species are often stressed in ecology and conservation management. Is the apparent uniqueness of population attributes partly an artefact of measurement scale? One facet of this debate is the question of whether extinction risk scales better to years or to generations. To resolve this issue, the extinction risk of 100 well-studied vertebrate taxa was estimated using stochastic computer projections and analyses conducted to determine whether risk related better to years or generations. Relative strengths of evidence for alternative hypotheses were assessed using information theory. Extinction risk, assessed as the population size required for a 90% probability of persistence for 100 years, was strongly related to generation length. Conversely, when extinction risk was assessed for a fixed number of generations, there was no support for a relationship between risk and years. This finding has ramifications for assessing and reporting extinction risk because it shows that (1) crucial signals for the effective management of threatened species may not be detected when risk is measured on a scale of years alone; (2) correcting for generation length will allow data from a wider range of species to be used as defaults for species with limited data; (3) generational-scale tests of factors affecting extinction risk are more powerful than year-based ones. We recommend that extinction risk be routinely reported on a generational scale, with results on a year scale added where warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To characterize the genetic basis of voluntary calcium consumption, we tested C57BL/6J mice (B6; with low avidity for calcium), PWK/PhJ mice (PWK; with high avidity for calcium) and their F1 and F2 hybrids. All mice received a series of 96-h two-bottle preference tests with a choice between water and the following: 50 mm CaCl2, 50 mm calcium lactate, 50 mm MgCl2, 100 mm KCl, 100 mm NH4Cl, 100 mm NaCl, 5 mm citric acid, 30 μm quinine hydrochloride and 2 mm saccharin. Most frequency distributions of the parental and F1 but not F2 groups were normally distributed, and there were few sex differences. Reciprocal cross analysis showed that B6 × PWK F1 mice had a non-specific elevation of fluid intake relative to PWK × B6 F1 mice. In the F2 mice, trait correlations were clustered among the divalent salts and the monovalent chlorides. A genome screen involving 116 markers showed 30 quantitative trait loci (QTLs), of which six involved consumption of calcium chloride or lactate. The results show pleiotropic controls of calcium and magnesium consumption that are distinct from those controlling consumption of monovalent chlorides or exemplars of the primary taste qualities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The population dynamics of bacterial able to be cultured under sulphate reducing condition was studied in conjunction with changes in aquifer geochemistry using multivariate statistics for two contrasting Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) techniques at two different geographical locations (Perth, Western Australia and Adelaide, South Australia). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to investigate spatial and temporal changes in the overall chemical signature of the aquifers using an array of chemical analytes which demonstrated a migrating geochemical plume. Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (DGGE) using DNA from sulphate-reducing bacteria cultures was used to detect spatial and temporal changes in population dynamics. Bacterial and geochemical evidence suggested that groundwater at greatest distance from the nutrient source was least affected by treated effluent recharge. The results suggested that bacterial populations that were able to be cultured in sulphate reducing media responded to the migrating chemical gradient and to the changes in aquifer geochemistry. Most noticeably, sulphate-reducing bacterial populations associated with the infiltration galleries were stable in community structure over time. Additionally, the biodiversity of these culturable bacteria was restored when aquifer geochemistry returned to ambient conditions during the recovery phase at the Adelaide Aquifer Storage and Recovery site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE. To increase awareness of the many issues involved in measuring the dose of nursing intervention in nursing interventions effectiveness research. METHODS. Identify critical issues in measurement of the dose of nursing intervention and discuss decisions regarding dosage measurement made in a study of the effectiveness of nursing interventions. FINDINGS. A single method can be applied to resolve two critical issues in intervention dosage measurement. CONCLUSIONS. Those conducting nursing interventions effectiveness research must think explicitly about how intervention dosage will be measured and reported so that dosage can be replicated in research and practice. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Measuring and reporting the dose of nursing intervention in research is essential to the development of an evidence base adequate to support practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mental health (MH) hospital admissions were investigated in a cohort (N = 1184) of heroin dependent persons using linked health records. All MH in-patient admissions were extracted 36 months before to 36 months after commencing rapid opioid detoxification (ROD) and oral naltrexone. Results show that the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of drug-related and other MH admissions peaked in the 3 months immediately prior to treatment. All categories subsequently declined to baseline levels by 36 months following treatment. The authors conclude that treatment for heroin dependence reduces risk of MH admissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ample evidence exists that an increase in the inbreeding level of a population reduces the value of fitness components such as fecundity and survival. It does not follow, however, that these decreases in the components of fitness impact population dynamics in a way that increases extinction risk, because virtually all species produce far more offspring than can actually survive. We analyzed the effects of the genetic quality (mean fitness) of individuals on the population growth rate of seven natural populations in each of two species of wolf spider in the genus Rabidosa, statistically controlling for environmental factors. We show that populations of different sizes, and different inbreeding levels, differ in population dynamics for both species. Differences in population growth rates are especially pronounced during stressful environmental conditions (low food availability) and the stressful environment affects smaller populations (<500 individuals) disproportionately. Thus, even in an invertebrate with an extremely high potential growth rate and strong density-dependent mortality rates, genetic factors contribute directly to population dynamics and, therefore, to extinction risk. This is only the second study to demonstrate an impact of the genetic quality of individual genotypes on population dynamics in a wild population and the first to document strong inbreeding–environment interactions for fitness among populations. Endangered species typically exist at sizes of a few hundred individuals and human activities degrade habitats making them innately more stressful (e.g. global climate change). Therefore, the interaction between genetic factors and environmental stress has important implications for efforts aimed at conserving the Earth's biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mood disorders manifest across the life span yet often go undiagnosed and untreated. Increasingly, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in the older adult is recognized as a frequently occurring, heterogeneous psychiatric illness that impacts the individual and family, one's physical health, and society. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with MDD than men and therefore it is important to identify specific risk factors and other distinguishing features. This article reviews the descriptive characteristics, epidemiology, etiology and pathophysiology, course and natural history, and assessment and treatment of MDD with specific focus on women and aging, [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In our observation of the LMXB XB 1323-619 made with XMM-Newton in January 2003, a number of absorption lines were discovered, notably at 6.70 and 6.98keV which we identify with scattering by high ionization state ions Fe XXV and Fe XXVI. Curve of growth analysis provided a consistent solution for collisional ionization for a plasma temperature kT =31keV, close to the electron temperature we previously obtained for the accretion disc corona (ADC) in this source. Thus, for the first time we can explain the absorption features found in recent years in dipping sources as originating in the ADC. We also find a remarkable linear increase in the rate of X-ray bursts with time implying that the gap between bursts will become zero on January 11 (±4), 2008. We expect the source to undergo a transition from X-ray bursting to X-ray flaring confirming that flaring is unstable nuclear burning. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Understanding the consequences of inbreeding has important implications for a wide variety of topics in population biology. Although it is often stated in the literature that the deleterious effects of inbreeding (inbreeding depression) are expected to be more pronounced under stressful than benign conditions, this issue remains unresolved and controversial. We review the current literature on the relationship between the magnitude of inbreeding depression and environmental stress and calculate haploid lethal equivalents expressed under relatively benign and stressful conditions based on data from 34 studies. Inbreeding depression increases under stress in 76% of cases, although this increase is only significant in 48% of the studies considered. Estimates of lethal equivalents are significantly greater under stressful (mean=1.45, median=1.02) than relatively benign (mean=0.85, median=0.61) conditions. This amounts to an approximately 69% increase in inbreeding depression in a stressful vs a benign environment. However, we find strong lineage effects to be ubiquitous among studies that examine inbreeding depression in multiple environments, and a prevalence of conditionally expressed deleterious effects within lineages that are uncorrelated across environments. These results have important implications for both evolutionary and conservation biology.Heredity (2005) 95, 235–242. doi:10.1038/sj.hdy.6800721; published online 3 August 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Educators have recognized the need to apply evidence-based approaches to medical training. To do so, medical educators must have access to reliable evidence on the impact of educational interventions. This paper describes 5 methodologic challenges to performing systematic reviews of educational interventions for health care professionals: finding reports of medical education interventions, assessing quality of study designs, assessing the scope of interventions, assessing the evaluation of interventions, and synthesizing the results of educational interventions. We offer suggestions for addressing these challenges and make recommendations for reporting, reviewing, and appraising interventions in medical education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present results from analysis of the observation of the dipping, quasi-periodic bursting low mass X-ray binary XB 1323-619 made withXMM–Newtonin 2003 January. In spectral analysis of the non-dip, non-burst EPIC PN spectrum, a number of absorption lines were discovered, notably at 6.70 and 6.98 keV, which we identify with scattering by high ionization state ions Fe xxvand Fe xxvi. Such features have been seen in other dipping sources, but their origin was not understood. Curve of growth analysis provided a consistent solution in which the line ratio was reproduced assuming collisional ionization with, close to the electron temperature we previously determined for the accretion disc corona (ADC) in this source. We thus propose that the absorption lines in the dipping low mass X-ray binaries (LMXB) are produced in the ADC. Spectral evolution in dipping was well described by the progressive covering model, which we have previously shown to give very good explanations of many dipping sources. We discuss the proposal of, based on analysis of the present observation, that spectral evolution in all of the dipping LMXB may be explained by subjecting the continuum to a highly ionized absorber. This would require a decrease in X-ray intensity by a factor of∼3 in dipping at energies where photoelectric absorption is not effective (40–100 keV), which previousBeppoSAXanalysis of several sources firmly rules out. In XB 1323-619, any decrease was less thanand so the ionized absorber proposal can be ruled out. We find a remarkable linear increase in the rate of X-ray bursts with time over the 14-yr period since 1989 and a systematic non-linear increase in source luminosity (L). The linear variation of burst rate withLshows that the burst rate is proportional to mass accretion rate and if continued implies that the gap between bursts will become zero on 2008 January 11. In reality, we expect the source to undergo a transition from X-ray bursting to X-ray flaring, which would confirm the suggestion we previously made that flaring is unstable nuclear burning effectively consisting of a superposition of X-ray bursts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The costs of self-fertilization were evaluated for the giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera. Macrocystis, like other kelps, has a biphasic life history in which the dispersal stage is the 1N spore generation. Once spores settle, they grow into sedentary and microscopic male or female gametophytes, which produce sperm and eggs. Fertilization ensues, and the resultant 2N sporophyte, the spore-producing form; grows rapidly to a height of up to 25 m. Based on previous empirical studies and modeling field surveys, the potential for self-fertilization is expected to be high, largely due to the shape and extent of spore dispersal distributions. The costs of self-fertilization were assessed with laboratory and field experiments over the entire life history of the sporophyte stage. There was no evidence for self-incompatibility, and fitness was dramatically lower in selfed compared to outcrossed individuals. In addition, there was evidence that costs were more severe under intraspecific competition with outcrossed individuals. The demonstrated severity of the consequences of self-fertilization suggests a species that typically outcrosses (at least under the assumption that costs result from rare recessive deleterious alleles). However, costs were more pronounced in later life history phases, suggesting routine self-fertilization. One implication of significant levels of self-fertilization in Macrocystis is a sort of inbreeding-mediated localized population senescence, leading to striking oscillations in populations, a pattern seen in many Californian kelp beds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An individual's or a population's fitness is the result of a large number of interacting life history traits and the environment. Little information is available on the phenotypic correlations among fitness components and fitness itself, especially outside of Drosophila melanogaster. We also lack detailed information on trade-offs among life history traits. Here we present the relationship between adult progeny production and eight components of fitness, as well as some observed trade-offs between life history traits in the housefly (Musca domestica). We briefly discuss some of the ramifications of these relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of recent studies suggest that the mouse Sac (saccharin preference) locus is identical to the Tas1r3 (taste receptor) gene. The goal of this study was to identify Tas1r3 sequence variants associated with saccharin preference in a large number of inbred mouse strains. Initially, we sequenced ∼6.7 kb of the Tas1r3 gene and its flanking regions from six inbred mouse strains with high and low saccharin preference, including the strains in which the Sac alleles were described originally (C57BL/6J, Sac[supb]; DBA/2J, Sac[supd]). Of the 89 sequence variants detected among these six strains, eight polymorphic sites were significantly associated with preferences for 1.6 mM saccharin. Next, each of these eight variant sites were genotyped in 24 additional mouse strains. Analysis of the genotype-phenotype associations in all 30 strains showed the strongest association with saccharin preference at three sites: nucleotide (nt) - 791 (3 bp insertion/deletion), nt +135 (Ser45Ser), and nt + 179 (Ile60Thr). We measured Tas1r3 gene expression, transcript size, and T1R3 immunoreactivity in the taste tissue of two inbred mouse strains with different Tas1r3 haplotypes and saccharin preferences. The results of these experiments suggest that the polymorphisms associated with saccharin preference do not act by blocking gene expression, changing alternative splicing, or interfering with protein translation in taste tissue. The amino acid substitution (Ile60Thr) may influence the ability of the protein to form dimers or bind sweeteners. Here, we present data for future studies directed to experimentally confirm the function of these polymorphisms and highlight some of the difficulties of identifying specific DNA sequence variants that underlie quantitative trait loci. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The West has recently experienced major clashes over its scarce water supplies, with traditional water users on one side and endangered species on the other. These clashes, including those in the Klamath and Middle Rio Grande basins, have pitted western state water laws based on prior appropriation against the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA). One could easily mistake these laws for polar opposites, but, in fact, western water law and the ESA share a number of important and ironic similarities. This article identifies some of the similarities that arise from the basic provisions of the laws and from the way they are implemented. Despite these important similarities, however, recent efforts to reform the laws have been notably one-sided, focusing almost entirely on the ESA. The article concludes that the West will not achieve a sustainable balance in water use by revising the ESA alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE:: To determine whether or not abdominal obesity is associated with the intima-media thickness (IMT) of the carotid artery wall independently of total body obesity and major risk factors for atherosclerosis. DESIGN:: Longitudinal epidemiological study. SUBJECTS:: A total of 573 middle-aged employees of a utility company. MEASUREMENTS:: Sagittal and transverse abdominal diameters, their ratio and difference were used as measures of abdominal obesity. RESULTS:: Abdominal diameters and body mass index (BMI) were significantly associated with blood pressure, serum lipoproteins and fasting insulin. In cross-sectional multiple regression models, the sagittal/transverse ratio and BMI were significantly associated with IMT in the presence of atherosclerosis risk, but the sagittal diameter was not. In longitudinal models, baseline BMI was an independent predictor of IMT progression but the sagittal and transverse diameters were not. CONCLUSION:: These findings do not support the hypothesis that abdominal obesity is an independent predictor of carotid artery IMT. The consistent pattern of association of measures of general obesity with carotid artery IMT emphasizes the continuing need for prevention and control of this important risk factor.International Journal of Obesity (2003) 27, 1546-1551. doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0802468 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate parental satisfaction with hospital care in general pediatric units. A search for a valid parental satisfaction instrument resulted in the selection of the Pediatric Family Satisfaction Questionnaire (PFSQ) (Budreau & Chase, 1994). This paper will report on the psychometric testing of the PFSQ. METHODS: The data were retrieved from several years of patient satisfaction surveys collected at a large Midwest hospital and clinics. The SPSS statistical software was used to test the reliability and construct validity of the PFSQ. RESULTS: Alpha for the total instrument was .83, based on 327 cases and 35 items. Factor analysis indicated two main factors, nursing care and medical care, with a total of 30 items. CONCLUSION: The PFSQ is considered a promising instrument for evaluating parental satisfaction in general, inpatient pediatric units. urther development of the instrument is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite governmental commitments and promises, the decade following the 1992 World Conference on Environment and Development has not given rise to development policy or practices built on a more intimate integration of poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability. Moreover, globalization, while generating considerable material benefits for certain social groups North and South, has not placed sustainable development at the centre of its economic policy prescriptions or accompanying institutional reforms. This article examines the underlying tensions between neoliberal reforms, driven primarily by the interests of advanced economies of the North, and the requisites of promoting poverty alleviation and protecting environmental assets in rural areas of developing countries. It concludes that policy makers face difficult trade–offs that must balance the pursuit of short–term economic gains of export–led growth against longer–term benefits of social cohesion, environmental stability, and steady productivity gains associated with sustainable development. The article concludes by affirming that, amidst the growing influence of corporate and northern interests shaping the development process, civil society North and South must play an expanded role in reshaping current policies and practices to support sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinically useful and measurable patient outcomes that are sensitive to nursing interventions are needed to determine the effectiveness of nursing care. Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) researchers are evaluating the reliability, validity, and usefulness of the first 190 published outcomes in 10 sites representing the continuum of care. Preliminary analysis of inter-rater reliability and construct or criterion validity of 15 outcomes are described. Results indicate NOC outcomes can be used to accurately document the effectiveness of nursing interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper I investigate the impact of recent immigration on males' earnings distributions in the major regions of the United States. I use six counterfactual scenarios to describe alternative regional skill distributions and wage structures for the population of natives and long-term immigrants in the absence of recent immigration. I find that immigration over the last three decades can account for a substantial portion of the variation in inequality across the regions. Recent immigration has contributed moderately to national growth in males' earnings inequality, primarily by changing the composition of the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addresses discrete-time, repetitive control for linear, periodic, time-varying systems. Periodic, repetitive control design method based on gain scheduling; Necessary and sufficient condition for closed-loop stability; Utilization of the special structure of the repetitive controller; Method for evaluating the closed-loop stability; Application of algorithm.

The aim of this study was to systematic genetic review of the literature on the cresty neck in Spanish Purebred horses. An exhaustive literature review was carried out using databases PubMed (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed), Publons (https://publons.com/), SciELO: Scientific Electronic Library Online (https://scielo.org/) and Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/). The search was carried out on October 21, 2020. The results of the systematic genetic review of the literature on cresty neck in Spanish Purebred horses identified 633 potential articles in the aforementioned databases, of these a total of 49 articles discuss 8 potentially genetic defects in the Spanish Purebred horse and a total of 15 articles specifically related to cresty neck in Spanish Purebred horses, few disorders were specifically linked to conformation or phenotype. The genetic bases of fat metabolism are associated with cresty neck, in Spanish Purebred horses where obesity and equine metabolic syndrome is a polygenic trait with specific risk alleles of the race. Reports in the literature indicate a high incidence, with a moderate heritability. Morphological and pathological studies describe this defect as a pathological condition given the degree of fat infiltration associated with lipomatosis in the muscles of the dorsal region of the neck. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SummaryObjectives: The objectives of this study were to determine dietary intake of calcium, intake of food components known to inhibit calcium bioavailability, demographic factors related to calcium intake, and the knowledge needs and barriers related to calcium consumption among low-income African–American women in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Methods: Ninety subjects were interviewed at local grocery stores. Calcium intake was determined using a 24-h recall. In addition, a survey was administered to the subjects to determine knowledge needs and barriers towards calcium consumption. Results: Subjects’ mean dietary calcium intake was below the recommended dietary allowance (RDA), with 80% of the subjects having a calcium intake below 75% of the RDA. In addition, intakes of protein and sodium were above the recommended amounts. The general knowledge of the subjects concerning the role of calcium in osteoporosis was high, but this did not have an effect on the consumption of products containing calcium. The most important barriers to dairy product intake were perceived negative taste, perceived association with digestion problems and the perception that they already had adequate intake. Conclusion: Inadequate calcium intake in African–American women is affected by many factors including their lack of awareness of actual consumption. Nutrition education programmes need to address these factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]