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This is the 85th annual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data processed in 2021. In 2021, 105 Constant Effort Sites submitted data for the year. Long-term (1984–2020) declines in abundance were observed for five migrant, one partial migrant and five resident species, while long-term increases in abundance were recorded for two short-distance migrants and seven resident species. Ten species are exhibiting significant long-term declines in productivity, while only Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs shows a significant long-term increase. Long-term trends in survival indicate increases for 12 species and declines for seven. Short-term trends, which compare the current year to the five-year mean for 2016–20, show that the abundance of seven species increased significantly in 2021, with one species, Treecreeper Certhia familiaris, being recorded in higher numbers than in any previous year of CES monitoring. Significant decreases in abundance were recorded for four species. Productivity decreased significantly for seven migrant and 11 resident species in 2021, with six species recording their lowest breeding success since CES monitoring began; no species recorded a significant short-term increase. Significant changes in survival rate were observed for two species in 2021 compared to the five-year mean, with Song Thrush Turdus philomelos increasing and Chaffinch both declining and recording its lowest survival rate ever. The Garden CES trial continued in 2021, with 60 sites submitting data. The new winter ringing project also continued in 2021, with submissions received from 126 sites. The number of Retrapping Adults for Survival projects that were able to run and submit data in 2021 was 192, with data from one more project submitted too late to be included in this report and another four active projects unable to operate. In total, 60 species were monitored, with Starling Sturnus vulgaris (21 projects), House Sparrow Passer domesticus (20 projects), Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca (19 projects), Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus (nine projects) and Sand Martin Riparia riparia (nine projects) the species most studied. A total of 900 131 birds were ringed during the year, comprising 146 458 nestlings, 438 342 first-year birds, 291 127 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older) and 24 204 birds whose age could not be determined. In addition, there were 210 147 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. In total, 42 328 recoveries (birds found dead, recaptured or resighted at least 5 km from the place of ringing) of BTO-ringed birds were reported in 2021. The Appendix highlights a selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements, as well as longevity records established during the year. A total of 41 096 NRS submissions were received in 2021. Mean laying dates for 2021 were significantly later than the average for 13 species and only one species significantly advanced its laying date. Five species displayed a significant change in fledglings per breeding attempt, with two recording increased productivity and three reduced productivity. Permits or licences to disturb breeding birds on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) were prepared and issued to 602 ringers and nest recorders in 2021. During 2021, 2588 marking endorsements, 868 sampling endorsements and 214 trapping endorsements were issued in the UK and overseas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individually tracked Lesser Black-backed Gulls Larus fuscus rarely visited offshore areas in this study but showed high variation across multiple time scales in overall area use. To quantify the variation in space use by Lesser Black-backed Gulls, a species of conservation concern, from short- and long-term data on tracked individuals, and to assess the time spent offshore and interacting with offshore wind farms (OWFs) before and after their construction. GPS tracking data were collected between 2016 and 2019 from 36 Lesser Black-backed Gulls breeding in a declining colony in the UK with several operational OWFs nearby. Variations in home ranges, foraging trip metrics and the proportion of time spent offshore or within OWFs were analysed at three temporal scales: (i) over a daily cycle, (ii) across the breeding season and (iii) between years. Individuals predominantly used terrestrial areas. Less than 1.25% of the overall breeding season time budgets were spent offshore across years, and offshore use and time within OWFs did not vary significantly between years. However, home range sizes and foraging trip metrics did vary significantly across all time scales and individual variation was significant. Our results suggested that there was little change in the relative use of offshore areas over time and thus in the macro-scale response of Lesser Black-backed Gulls to the OWFs, one of which was under construction during the period of study. Colony productivity and changes in the terrestrial environment were likely to be more important for influencing foraging movements at this colony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary of this study was to compare the volume, length, echo intensity, and growth rate of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of both limbs (more-involved and less-involved) in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP), with those of an age-matched typically developing (TD) group. A secondary aim in the USCP group was to explore the associations between these muscle parameters and discrete ankle positions during phase of gait. Muscle parameters were assessed using 3D ultrasound. Maximal ankle dorsiflexion in stance and swing during walking were determined from 2D video analysis. Group differences in muscle size and echo intensity were assessed using a two-way analysis of covariance (age-by-group), with the interaction term used to compare muscle growth rates. Associations between muscle parameters and maximal ankle dorsiflexion in stance and swing were assessed using backwards multiple linear regression analyses. The MG of both limbs in children with USCP had signs of impaired muscle development (smaller volume and length, higher echo intensity and lower growth rate). There was no evidence of impaired muscle development of TA between limbs or compared the TD children. Tibialis anterior volume, length, echo intensity and MG volume explained 66% and 83% of the variance in maximal ankle dorsiflexion position in the stance and swing phases of walking, respectively. Unlike the MG, the TA volume and growth rate in children with USCP are equivalent between limbs and compared to TD children. For the more-involved limb only, TA volume, length, and echo intensity appear associated with maximal ankle dorsiflexion during walking and represent important muscle parameters that could be targeted in with early exercise therapy. Tibialis anterior (TA) size and echogenicity appear normal in both limbs in young children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP); findings that could indicate sufficient mechanical stimulus and muscle anabolism to maintain normal muscle growth. Tibialis anterior size and echogenicity are associated with maximal ankle dorsiflexion in both stance and swing phase of walking in young children with USCP; though such relations appear isolated to the more-involved limb. Early therapeutic interventions that target TA are likely to be successful in maintaining muscle size and may offset the negative effects of medial gastrocnemius atrophy in the development of fixed ankle equinus of the more-involved limb and improve ankle positioning during gait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the 84th annual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data processed in 2020. An analysis of Curlew Numenius arquata ringing records was carried out to investigate recent declines. Results showed that survival rates are high, so current population declines are more likely to have been driven by low productivity. To reverse the recent population declines, breeding success would need to increase and effective conservation strategies will be needed to maintain the high levels of survival. We examined the potential opportunities and challenges of using winter ringing records to produce survival estimates, as well as other outputs such as age ratios and recruitment, by analysing 2 641 352 encounter records from the winters of 2007/08 to 2017/18: winter-to-winter survival analyses on adult birds were undertaken, initially on 44 species. Results indicated that fortnightly ringing sessions should yield sufficient data to produce useful survival estimates. This research identified a number of potential analytical and methodological options for future development. Covid-19 restrictions limited the amount of fieldwork carried out in 2020; consequently, only 72 CE sites submitted data for the year. Long-term (1984–2019) declines in abundance were observed for five migrant, one partial migrant and four resident species while long-term increases in abundance were recorded for two short-distance migrants and six resident species. Six species are exhibiting significant long-term declines in productivity while only Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs shows a significant long-term increase. Long-term trends in survival indicate increases for 10 species and declines for nine. Short-term trends, which compare the current year to the five-year mean (2015–19), show that the abundance of 10 species increased significantly in 2020, with three species being recorded in higher numbers than in any previous year since CES monitoring began. Significant decreases in abundance were recorded for only two species. Productivity decreased significantly for one migrant and five resident species in 2020; no species recorded a significant increase. Productivity was lower in 2020 than in any previous CES year for Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus and Great Tit Parus major. Significant changes in survival rate were observed in two species in 2020 compared to the five-year mean, with Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula increasing and Blackbird Turdus merula decreasing. A new habitat was added to the suite of standard CES habitats in 2020 in the first year of a Garden CES trial. Submissions were received from 92 sites. A new winter ringing project was also launched in 2020, following a similar methodology to CES. Submissions were received from 111 sites. The number of Retrapping Adults for Survival projects that were able to run and submit data in 2020 was 146, from 200 that were registered. In total, 60 species were monitored, with Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca (20 projects), Starling Sturnus vulgaris (19), House Sparrow Passer domesticus (18), Sand Martin Riparia riparia (10) and Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus (eight) the species most studied. A total of 930 091 birds were ringed during the year, comprising 98 500 nestlings, 523 777 first-year birds, 278 157 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older) and 29 657 birds whose age could not be determined. In addition, there were 212 414 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. In total, 42 987 recoveries (birds found dead, recaptured or resighted at least 5 km from the place of ringing) of BTO-ringed birds were reported in 2020. The Appendix highlights a selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements, as well as longevity records established during the year. A total of 23 928 NRS submissions were received in 2020, far fewer than usual due to Covid-19 restrictions being in place during the height of the nesting season. As the seasonality of nest records was biased towards the end of the breeding season, after Covid-19 restrictions had lifted, it was not possible to generate meaningful NRS trends for 2020. Permits or licences to disturb breeding birds on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) were prepared and issued to 611 ringers and nest recorders in 2020. During 2020, the use of special methods was authorised for 1182 marking projects and 146 trapping projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the 83rd annual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data processed in 2019. In 2019, 130 CE sites submitted data. Long-term (1984–2018) declines in abundance were observed for five migrant, one partial migrant and four resident species while long-term increases in abundance continue to be recorded for two short-distance migrants and four resident species. Seven species are exhibiting significant long-term declines in productivity while only Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs is exhibiting a significant long-term increase. Long-term trends in survival indicate increases for 14 species and declines for six. Compared to the five-year mean (2014–18), the abundance of eight species decreased significantly in 2019, with five species being recorded in lower numbers than in any previous year since CES monitoring began. Significant increases in abundance were recorded for six species. Productivity increased significantly for two migrant and six resident species in 2019 and decreased for only one species; Productivity rates were higher in 2019 than in any previous year for Chaffinch. Significant declines in survival rate were observed in one species in 2019 compared to the five-year mean; no species exhibited a significant increase. The number of Retrapping Adults for Survival submissions increased slightly in 2019 to 195. In total, 59 species were monitored, with Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca (22 projects), Starling Sturnus vulgaris (17), House Sparrow Passer domesticus (16), Sand Martin Riparia riparia (11) and Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus (10) the species most studied. A total of 1 050 520 birds were ringed during the year, comprising 181 766 nestlings, 518 575 first-year birds, 318 390 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older) and 31 789 birds whose age could not be determined. In addition, there were 243 775 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. In total, 45 610 recoveries (birds found dead, recaptured or resighted at least 5 km from the place of ringing) of BTO-ringed birds were reported in 2019. The Appendix highlights a selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements, as well as longevity records established during the year. A total of 41 367 NRS submissions were received in 2019, higher than the previous season but otherwise the lowest annual total since 2013. Mean laying dates for 2019 were significantly earlier than the five-year mean (2014–18) for 12 of 52 species analysed and five species displayed a significant increase in breeding success (fledglings per breeding attempt). Permits or licences to disturb breeding birds on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), were prepared and issued to 547 ringers and nest recorders in 2019. During 2019, the use of special methods was authorised for 613 marking projects and 158 trapping projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Rehabilitation goals often focus on increasing community integration for adults with disabilities and are measured by objective assessments. Research methods have lagged behind in capturing current conceptualizations of community integration as a multidimensional construct that incorporates participation, social supports, and feelings of belonging in the community. This paper addresses this challenge by describing a multi-method approach to assessing community integration for adults with cerebral palsy. Methods: Measures include standardized questionnaires, qualitative methods, measures of function and physical activity, and geospatial measures using Geographic Information System mapping and Global Positioning System tracking. These objective and subjective data are used to determine where adults spend time and are most active, and which activities and social connections are associated with feeling integrated into the community. Results: Two case examples highlight the importance of using a multi-method approach to assess community integration for adults with cerebral palsy. Results of objective clinical measures were comparable among case examples; however, actual experiences of feeling connected to the community were vastly different. Conclusions: Multiple measures are required to capture the complexity of community integration. Relying solely on objective measures may not provide a complete picture of community integration. Community integration is a complex construct that incorporates participation, socialization, and feelings of belonging in the community. New methods and measures are needed to assess the many aspects of community integration in adults with disabilities. A multi-method approach is recommended to provide a richer characterization of community integration in individuals with disabilities. A combination of quantitative and qualitative measures addressing the physical, social and psychological aspects of community integration should be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effect of diamond deloading tape on medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle behaviour during exercise in healthy adults (n = 27). A randomised cross-over trial assessed the effect of tape (no-tape, sham-tape and deload-tape) on ankle and MG fascicle kinematics during three heel raise-lower exercises [double leg (DL), single leg (SL) and loaded single leg (LSL)]. There was no effect of tape on standing fascicle length (FL) or pennation angle (PA), or ankle or knee joint angle. There was a significant effect of tape on ankle kinematics for all exercises. Both the deload-tape and sham-tape resulted in less ankle plantar flexion but had no effect on dorsiflexion. There was a significant effect of tape on FL change for the SL and LSL exercise. Compared to no-tape, the deload-tape resulted in less fascicle shortening during ankle plantar flexion, and more fascicle lengthening during ankle dorsiflexion. For the LSL exercise, deload-tape caused MG fascicles to operate at longer lengths, for a given joint angle. Diamond taping, with or without added tension, has only a small effect on ankle and MG fascicle kinematics during the heel raise-lower exercise. With the exception of the LSL exercise, both tape conditions resulted in similar changes in the FL-angle relations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the 81st annual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data collected and processed in 2017. Demographic data contributed to several research studies during the year, including a review of the conservation status of Raven Corvus corax and the impacts of licensed control. This quantified the extent to which non-breeding birds could be removed without impacting overall population sustainability, as well as the data permitted, but noted that a better understanding of age-specific survival rates was required. Nest Record Scheme data contributed to a large-scale collaborative study investigating the impact that temperature and rainfall have on the timing of events throughout the annual cycles of 10 000 animal and plant species across different trophic levels. The results indicated that the speed of response was greatest at low trophic levels. Future changes under a range of emission scenarios were estimated; these results indicated that advances in timing would be greatest for primary consumers. A statistical method was developed, using nest record data, to quantify nest failure, taking into account uncertainties generated during data collection. The method was applied to Blackbird Turdus merula records to compare survival rates of nests in gardens with those in the wider countryside. Survival in suburban areas was found to be higher than in urban or rural areas, and nests survived better in wetter conditions across all habitats. In order to quantify any welfare impacts of capturing wild birds, we examined the frequency with which passerines were reported to have died either whilst in the net or during handling. Analyses of capture data submitted from 2005 to 2013 indicated that the average mortality rate is around 0.1%, and that this is consistent between years. Most fatalities occurred before individuals had been extracted from the nets and juveniles appeared to be at greater risk than adults. In 2017, 135 CE sites submitted data. Long-term (1984–2016) declines in abundance were observed in four migrant, one partial migrant and one resident species and concurrent increases in abundance continued to be recorded in two short-distance migrants and four resident species. There was no change to the 10 species which exhibited significant long-term declines in productivity; only one species, Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs, exhibited a significant long-term increase in productivity. Compared to the five-year mean (2012–16), the abundance of six species increased significantly in 2017; Treecreepers Certhia familiaris were seen in greater numbers in 2017 than in any other year since CES monitoring began. Conversely, the abundance of six species fell significantly in 2017, with Chaffinch and Greenfinch Chloris chloris numbers at their lowest since CES monitoring began. Productivity increased significantly for three species in 2017 and decreased for eight species. The only significant change in survival rates between 2017 and the five-year mean was for Wren Troglodytes troglodytes, although the survival rate for Song Thrush Turdus philomelos was at its highest. The number of Retrapping Adults for Survival submissions fell slightly in 2017 to 195; 11 projects ran for the first time. In total, 58 species were monitored, with Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca (20 projects), House Sparrow Passer domesticus (16), Starling Sturnus vulgaris (15) and Sand Martin Riparia riparia (11) continuing to be the most-studied species. Once again, over a million birds (1 020 356) were ringed during the year, comprising 165 565 nestlings, 500 580 first-year birds, 321 945 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older) and 32 266 birds where the age could not be determined. In addition, there were 242 719 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. In total, 41 049 recoveries (birds found dead, recaptured or resighted at least 5 km from the place of ringing) of BTO-ringed birds were reported in 2017. The Appendix highlights a selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements, as well as longevity records established during the year. NRS submissions in 2017 exceeded 4 0 000 for the eighth consecutive year, with a total of 43 570 records received. Mean laying dates for 22 species were significantly earlier than the five-year mean (2012–16) with none of the 52 species analysed laying significantly later. There was a significant increase in breeding success (fledglings per breeding attempt) for two species in 2017, compared to the five-year mean, with one decreasing significantly. Permits or licences to disturb breeding birds on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), were prepared and issued to 580 ringers and nest recorders in 2017. During 2017, the use of special methods was authorised for 584 marking projects and 67 trapping projects, a 4% decrease from 2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the 80th annual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data processed in 2016. BTO and JNCC have used seabird population data to investigate how demographic processes drive population changes, enabling improved population models to be produced. These population models were used to help quantify the risks associated with large-scale infrastructure projects (e.g. windfarms) and recommendations were made concerning approaches to be used in particular circumstances. Density dependence in seabirds, and its potential impact on population models, was also reviewed but little evidence of significant effects was found. Research on the demographic causes of declines in migratory species, undertaken in collaboration with the University of East Anglia, focused on population changes in Willow Warblers Phylloscopus trochilus. Data from the Nest Record Scheme (NRS), Constant Effort Sites scheme (CES) and the Breeding Bird Survey were combined; the results showed that reduced productivity levels in Willow Warblers in the south of Britain were driving the decline. In 2016, 134 CE sites submitted data. Five migrant and two resident species exhibited long-term (1984-2015) declines in abundance while four migrant and six resident species showed declines in productivity. Compared to the five-year mean (2011-15), the abundance of 10 species increased significantly in 2016 with Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti, Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita, Wren Troglodytes troglodytes and Robin Erithacus rubecula abundance at its highest since CES monitoring began. The abundance of three species fell significantly in 2016. Productivity increased for one species in 2016 and decreased significantly for 16 species. Survival rates increased significantly for three species and fell significantly for one. For the first time, the number of Retrapping Adults for Survival submissions passed 200. A total of 59 species were monitored and 24 projects ran for the first time. The most-studied species were Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca (23 projects), House Sparrow Passer domesticus (17), Sand Martin Riparia riparia (15) and Starling Sturnus vulgaris (13). Over a million birds (1 051 629) were ringed during the year, comprising 157 653 nestlings, 490 796 first-year birds, 370 019 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older) and 33 161 birds where the age could not be determined. In addition, there were 255 898 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. In total, 40 257 recoveries (birds found dead, or recaptured or resighted at least 5 km from the place of ringing) of BTO-ringed birds were reported in 2016. The Appendix highlights a selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements, as well as longevity records established during the year. NRS submissions in 2016 exceeded 45 000 for the third consecutive year, with a total of 46 514 records received. Mean laying dates for five species were significantly earlier than the five-year mean (2011-15) with 10 species laying significantly later. Three species displayed a significant increase in breeding success (fledglings per breeding attempt) in 2016 compared to the five-year mean, with four decreasing significantly. Permits/licences to disturb breeding birds on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), were prepared/issued to 587 ringers and nest recorders in 2016. During 2016, the use of special methods was authorised for 559 marking projects and 73 trapping projects, a 13% increase on 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine characteristics associated with physical activity capacity and performance in children with acquired brain injury (ABI). Methods: 58 children (32 men; age 11 years 11 months ± 2 years 6 months; Gross motor function classification system [GMFCS] equivalent I = 29, II = 29) >12 months post ABI were recruited. Physical activity capacity measures included: (i) combined score of three 30-second repetition maximum functional strength exercises; (ii) timed up and go; (iii) 6-minute walk test and (iv) high-level mobility assessment tool (HiMAT). Physical activity performance determined time spent in sedentary, light and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Full scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) was assessed using the Wechsler intelligence scale for Children-IV. Regression models were constructed with functional strength score (n= 56), activity counts/minutes and time spent in MVPA and sedentary (n= 37). Results: The HiMAT and FSIQ explained 69% of the variance in functional strength. Age explained 12% of the variance in counts/min and 14% of the variance in time spent sedentary. GMFCS explained 10% of the variance in time spent in MVPA. Conclusions: The ability to perform functional strength exercises is associated with mobility beyond independence and adequate intellectual ability for children with ABI. Age was the most significant factor associated with physical activity performance, and interventions should target adolescents with ABI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine the reproducibility in measurement of physical activity performance using the ActiGraph®GT3X+ accelerometer in children aged 8–16 years with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Methods: Reproducibility of standardized tasks: Thirty-two children with ABI (12 years 1 month, SD = 2 years 4 months; 20 males; Gross Motor Function Classification System I = 17, II = 15) performed the following activities on 2 consecutive days while wearing an accelerometer and a heart rate monitor: quiet sitting, slow walking (SW), moderate walking (MW), fast walking (FW) and rapid stepping on/off a block (STEP). Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated. Performance variability: Fifty-one participants (12 years 1 month, SD = 2 years 5 months; 27 males; GMFCS I = 26, II = 25) wore an accelerometer for 4 days in the community and reliability coefficients were calculated using standardized 12-hour time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Results: Test–re-test reproducibility was excellent for all activities (SW, ICC = 0.90; MW, ICC = 0.83; FW, ICC = 0.91; STEP, ICC = 0.89). Three days of monitoring produced excellent variability estimates of MVPA (R= 0.78). Conclusion: Therapists can confidently use accelerometry as a reproducible measure of physical activity under standardized walking and stepping conditions, as well as in the community for children with ABI. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This is the 79thannual report of the British Trust for Ornithology’s Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data processed in 2015. Constant Effort Sites (CES) data from across Europe, relating to eight common warblers, were analysed to investigate large-scale variation in survival rates and showed that changes in survival outside the breeding season are not a key driver of long-term population trends. Retrapping Adults for Survival (RAS) seabird data sets were reviewed to understand their ability to supplement geographically limited, long-term studies carried out by professionals. Most RAS studies re-encountered sufficient numbers of seabirds to estimate average survival rates; however, only those with re-encounter rates of around 40% were able to detect changes in survival rates efficiently. Over 100,000 nest records, relating to four insectivorous woodland passerines, were used to investigate changes in laying dates in response to temperature. Laying dates advanced by 2.3–4.8 days per °C rise in temperature, suggesting that these species may be able to change their laying dates in response to climate changes, even if the rate of climate change is rapid. Over 10,000 phenological data sets, including laying dates for 37 bird species, were used to look at the mechanisms behind species’ responses to changes in climate. Primary producers and primary consumers advanced timing of breeding more quickly than secondary consumers, potentially leading to a greater mismatch between the timing of breeding in birds (secondary consumers) and their prey availability under future climate-change projections. Data were received for 134 CE sites in 2015. Long-term (1984–2014) population trends derived from the CES data identified five migrant species and four resident species that have decreased significantly in abundance over this period. Abundance of three species decreased significantly in 2015 compared to the five-year mean (2010–14) with WhitethroatSylvia communisabundance at its lowest since CES monitoring began. There were significant increases in abundance for 12 species, with GoldfinchCarduelis carduelisat its highest since CES monitoring began. Productivity decreased significantly in ten species and increased significantly in three species compared to the five-year mean (2010–14); productivity for Willow WarblerPhylloscopus trochiluswas at its lowest since CES began. There were no significant changes in survival in 2015. The total number of active RAS projects increased again in 2015; 190 submissions were received, including data from 23 new projects. Projects were carried out on 57 species, with Pied FlycatcherFicedula hypoleuca(23 projects), Sand MartinRiparia riparia(15) and House SparrowPasser domesticus(20) still the most-studied species. The total number of birds ringed in 2015 was just under one million (987,253) and comprised 472,462 first-year birds, 319,230 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older), 27,993 unaged birds and 167,568 nestlings. In addition, there were 236,540 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. In total, 32,253 recoveries (birds found dead, or recaptured or resighted at least 5 km from the place of ringing) of BTO-ringed birds were reported in 2015. A selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements is presented, as well as longevity records established during the year. In total, 48,957 nest records were received for 2015, the highest annual submission since the Scheme began in 1939. Mean laying dates for five species were significantly earlier than the five-year mean (2010–14) with nine species laying significantly later. Only one species showed a significant increase in breeding success (fledglings per breeding attempt) in 2015, with four decreasing significantly. A total of 612 permits/licences to disturb breeding birds on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), were prepared/issued in 2015, a small increase from 2014. During 2015, the use of special methods was authorised for 489 marking projects and 68 trapping projects, 25% more than in 2014. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective: To determine test–re-test reproducibility of the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test, 30-second repetition maximum (repmax) of functional exercises, 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and High-level Mobility Assessment Tool (HiMAT) in children with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Secondarily, to assess the accuracy between hand-timed and video-timed scores for the TUG test and HiMAT. Methods: Thirty children at least 1 year post-ABI (mean age at assessment = 11 years 11 months, SD = 2 years 4 months; 14 males; Gross Motor Function Classification Scale I = 17, II = 13) were assessed twice. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement and minimum detectable change (MDC) were determined. The Bland-Altman method and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were used to assess the agreement between hand and video-timed TUG test and HiMAT scores. Results: Test–re-test reproducibility was acceptable for the TUG test (ICC = 0.92; MDC = 1.2s); repmax of functional exercises (ICC = 0.84–0.98; MDC = 4–8 reps); 6MWT (ICC = 0.90; MDC = 69.38 m) and HiMAT (ICC = 0.98; MDC = 6). Comparison of hand and video scores for the TUG test and HiMAT demonstrated a mean difference of 0.23 (LOA = –0.3–0.7) and –0.07 (LOA = –1.99–1.85), respectively. Conclusions Test–re-test reproducibility of lower limb activity capacity measures in children with ABI are acceptable. The MDC scores provide a useful reference to interpret treatment effectiveness. Video timing was more accurate than hand-timing for the TUG test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To systematically review the efficacy of physiotherapy interventions to improve gross motor capacity, performance and societal participation in children aged 5–17 years with an acquired brain injury (ABI). Methods: Randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, cohort, case series, case-control and case studies were included and classified according to grades of evidence. Methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Downs and Black (D&B) scale and quantitative data was analysed using effect sizes. Results: Two home-based studies investigated functional strength training (one randomized controlled trial, n = 20, level 2b, D&B = 16/32 and one non-randomized self-control study, n = 19, level 4, D&B = 15/32). Four studies evaluated virtual reality including: one pilot study, n = 50, level 4, D&B = 22/32; one single-subject, non-concurrent, randomized multiple baseline study, n = 3, level 4, D&B = 15/32; one case series study, n = 2, level 4, D&B = 15/32; one case study, n = 1, level 4, D&B = 15/32. Effect sizes for the randomized controlled trial ranged between 0.30–1.29 for the Functional Reach and Timed Up and Go outcome measures. Conclusion: There is preliminary evidence to support the efficacy of physiotherapy interventions to improve gross motor outcomes in children with an ABI. Both functional strength training and virtual-reality based therapy are potential treatment options for clinicians to prescribe in either home or clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the 78thannual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data processed in 2014.Many species have shifted their range towards the Earth's poles in response to global temperature increases. Data from four European Constant Effort Sites (CES) ringing schemes were examined to determine the impact of large-scale temperature variations on productivity in a group of seven migratory bird species to determine the potential for future range changes. Increased productivity at northern sites was apparent only in Reed WarblerAcrocephalus scirpaceus, although there was evidence of local adaptation in six species, suggesting that the rate of northward range shift may be constrained by adaptation to local climatic conditions.A study on the role of carry-over effects in RedstartPhoenicurus phoenicurus, Spotted FlycatcherMuscicapa striataand Wood WarblerPhylloscopus sibilatrixfound that carry-over effects from passage regions impacted on the timing of breeding more strongly than climate on the breeding grounds and that warmer conditions in the breeding area were not associated with reduced productivity.Work on the impact of environmental variables on annual population changes found that, over 40 years, the strongest impact on migrants was rainfall in the Sahel. Over 25 years, positive population changes in response to wetter winters were found for 12 of 16 species studied.Data were submitted for 132 CE sites in 2014. Long-term (1984–2013) population trends derived from the CES data have changed little in the past year. The abundance of five migrant species and five resident species decreased significantly in 2014 compared to the five-year mean (2009–13). The abundance of five of these species (Willow WarblerPhylloscopus trochilus, Sedge WarblerAcrocephalus schoenobaenus, BlackbirdTurdus merula, ChaffinchFringilla coelebsand GreenfinchChloris chloris) was at its lowest since CES monitoring began. There were significant increases in abundance for three species. Productivity decreased significantly in Willow TitPoecile montanacompared to the five-year mean (2009–13), but there were significant increases for eleven species (seven residents and four migrants),with productivity for Reed Warbler, Blackbird and BullfinchPyrrhula pyrrhulaat its highest since CES began. There were only two significant changes in survival in 2014.A total of 176 Retrapping Adults for Survival (RAS) projects were active in 2014, the highest total ever, with 22 new projects starting, 17 of which involved RAS target species. Projects were carried out on Tawny OwlStrix alucoand SwiftApus apusfor the first time.The total number of birds ringed in 2014 exceeded one million for the third time (1,047,026) and comprised 520,477 first-year birds, 303,086 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older), 29,799 unaged birds and 193,664 nestlings. In addition, there were 226,303 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site.In total, 28,187 recoveries of BTO-ringed birds were reported for 2014. A selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements is presented, as well as longevity records established during the year. The numbers of birds recovered between 2010 and 2013 have been revised as data submitted as retraps have been examined and some have been reclassified as recoveries.For the fifth year running, annual totals of nest records surpassed 40,000, reaching 46,382. Mean laying dates for 55 species were significantly earlier than the five-year mean (2009–13) with 19 species laying significantly later than the five-year mean. Breeding success (fledglings per breeding attempt) increased significantly for 14 species, with none showing a decrease.Nearly 600 permits/licences to disturb breeding birds on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), were prepared/issued in 2014, a small increase from 2013.The use of special methods was authorised for 398 marking projects and 47 trapping projects in 2014, 12% fewer than in 2013. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This is the 77th annual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, incorporating the report of the Nest Record Scheme and covering work carried out and data processed in 2013. In recent years the schemes have focused on the collection of demographic data as part of our Integrated Population Monitoring programme. We expanded (from 10 to 17) the number of species for which we were able to construct integrated models and identified differences in the relative contributions of recruitment and adult survival to population change between increasing and decreasing species. Recruitment of young into the breeding population can be difficult to estimate. We investigated the use of proportions of birds in their second calendar year, or older, caught in the early summer using Blackbird Turdus merula as a model. Results showed that recruitment was a more important determinant of population change than survival. Changes in phenology are being documented widely and we carried out analyses looking at the timing of moult and reproduction in selected passerine species. Patterns in timing and duration of moult varied between resident species but were more aligned within migrant species, which also moulted faster. Temperature on spring breeding grounds accounts for more variation between years in breeding phenology than precipitation rates on the wintering grounds in 19 migrant species but neither climate variable affected clutch size. We continued to emphasise the value of targeted ringing and nest recording; increased participation in our structured ringing schemes has provided additional opportunities to improve the quality of demographic monitoring. Long-term (1984–2012) population trends derived from the Constant Effort Sites (CES) data have changed little in the past year. Three of the eight migrant species monitored by CES showed significant increases in productivity compared to the five-year average, although Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus recorded its second-lowest productivity since CES began in 1983. Breeding performance of residents was mixed, with juvenile:adult ratios for some early breeders significantly lower than during the preceding five years, but significantly higher for some late breeders; one late-breeding resident species, Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula, had its highest productivity since CES began. Data were submitted for 124 sites. The number of active RAS projects in 2013 was 154, with 22 new projects, 13 of which involved RAS target species. The total number of birds ringed in 2013 decreased slightly (952,750) compared to 2012 and comprised 424,401 first-year birds, 355,278 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older), 19,776 unaged birds and 153,295 nestlings. In addition, there were 241,111 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. The reduction in numbers ringed compared to 2012 was probably a result of weather events in 2013. In 2013, there were 465 colour-marking projects registered, covering a total of 110 species; 65 new projects were registered during the year. There were 21,275 recoveries of BTO-ringed birds: the highest total ever. A selection of recoveries that have extended our knowledge of movements is presented, as well as longevity records established during the year. In total, 40,384 nest records were submitted. Of these, 82% originated from England, 8% from Wales and 9% from Scotland, the remaining 1% divided between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This was a reduction on the 2012 totals and probably reflected the poor start to the breeding season caused by the exceptionally cold weather in early spring. Long-term trends in nest productivity (fledglings per breeding attempt) were significant for 44 of the 72 species monitored. Of these, thirteen trends were negative, indicating a decline in breeding success over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the 76th annual report of the British Trust for Ornithology's Ringing Scheme, covering work carried out and data processed in 2012. Demographic integrated population monitoring has been the focus of the Scheme priorities in recent years and models that integrate ringing and nest record data and abundance trends were built for ten species for which sufficient data were available. Population drivers vary between species but they can be split between changes in breeding success, survival, or both. Multi-brooded species exhibited more seasonal variation in reproductive output than single-brooded species. In particular, migratory species showed a seasonal decrease in fledgling output, as do single-brooded species while residents generally showed a seasonal increase in productivity. Constant Effort Site (CES) data showed long-term (1984–2011) declines in four long-distance migrants and five resident species. However, four species (two short-distance migrants and two residents) have increased over the same period. Productivity of migrants monitored by CES was poor in 2012: seven of the eight species showed significant reductions in productivity compared to the five-year average and had the lowest productivity since CES began in 1983. Breeding performance of resident birds was low in 2012, with juvenile:adult ratios significantly lower than those calculated over the preceding five years for 10 of the 16 species. The number of CE sites increased in 2012, with data submitted for 125 sites, the highest total for a decade. The number of active RAS projects increased to 163 in 2012, with 21 new projects, eight of which involved RAS target species. In 2012 the total number of birds ringed (970,957) was the second highest recorded, and included 408,225 first-year birds, 377,199 adults (birds in their second calendar year or older), 23,772 unaged birds and 161,761 nestlings. In addition, there were 249,551 recaptures of ringed birds at or near the ringing site. The reduction in numbers ringed compared to 2012 was probably the result of the record wet weather that most of Britain & Ireland experienced in spring and summer 2012. A total of 18,693 BTO-ringed birds were recovered in 2012, which was lower than in 2011 but higher than in any previous year. This is the result of an increased number of birds ringed in the past 10 years, an increasing number of colour-ringed and tagged birds and subsequent resightings, more ringers within the Ringing Scheme, efforts to increase reports from members of the public of both metal and colour-ringed birds and an improvement in the way recoveries are processed. Recoveries of 22 BTO-ringed and 11 foreign-ringed individual birds that have extended our knowledge of movement of the species or constitute a new longevity record are presented. In total 44,895 nest records were submitted in 2012, the highest annual submission since the scheme began. Of these, 81% originated from England, 9% from Wales and 9% from Scotland, the remaining 1% divided equally between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Submissions from England, Scotland and Northern Ireland have all risen by similar proportions since 2007 (18–22%), while those from Wales have increased by 34% over the same period. Long-term annual productivity trends have been calculated for three additional species. Long-term productivity trends were significant for 40 of the 72 species monitored and nine of these trends were negative, indicating a decline in breeding success over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the 2009 bird Ringing Scheme of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) covering Great Britain and Ireland to better understand population change. Due to low productivity in 2007 and 2008 and freezing winters, there were decreases in species such as Wren Troglodytes troglodytes, Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus and Reed Warbler A. scirpaceus. The number of birds ringed was the highest recorded at 935,867 and recovery total was also high at 14,643.

The article reports on the European bird ringing schemes organization EURING which partnered with a web-based application to develop the mapping migration routes of waterfowl species which are identified with the highest potential to carry Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 across Europe. It states that the Constant Effort Site (CES) ringing demonstrated how the heavy rainfall during summer of 2007 had a negative effect on the breeding success and present recoveries of birds and their migration patterns and longevity records. It suggests that the total number of birds ringed was 7% lower than the mean of previous years due to the heavy rainfall that affects their breeding success.