Search

Copyright of Forestry Chronicle is the property of Canadian Institute of Forestry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Naturaliste Canadien is the property of La Societe Provancher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Agroalimentaria is the property of Alejandro Antonio Gutierrez Socorro and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Contemporary Accounting Research is the property of Canadian Academic Accounting Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Forestry Chronicle is the property of Canadian Institute of Forestry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Monitoring in psychology courses has been a relevant experience for improving the quality of undergraduate teaching. The philosophical disciplines present in these courses could benefit from this kind of teaching program. The present study aims to analyze an experience of implementing monitoring in theoretical-philosophical curricular components in the psychology course. These components are present in the first year of the course, a phase marked by the adaptation of newcomers. Therefore, in the experience construction, the prediction was that students could present adversities when coming into contact with these themes, such as the complexity of debates and new academic language. Monitoring was used as a tool in educational practices to facilitate the communication process of students and teachers. The work was organized by two professors from a psychology course at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN/FACISA), offering four voluntary scholarships over two years. The development of activities aimed to minimize students' difficulties, as well as incite and introduce historical and philosophical debates. During the intervention, autonomous teaching-learning was enabled for students, also providing teaching experience for monitors. With the conclusion of the activities, monitoring was consolidated as an effective mediation to achieve horizontality in academic relationships, with pedagogical gains for the participants, enabling the creation of subsequent initiatives in the study of psychology, epistemology, and other related areas. The current report demonstrates how similar practices can improve and improve the processes of student and professional training in Psychology courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Forestry Chronicle is the property of Canadian Institute of Forestry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ecologia Mediterranea is the property of Ecologia Mediterranea and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ecoscience (Ecoscience) is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

To inform the design of targeted, species-specific surveys of Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) in Ontario, Canada, we used autonomous recording units (ARUs) to document patterns in male vocal activity. We deployed recorders within the territories of breeding males at coastal sites near Georgian Bay, and at inland sites near Kaladar, in June 2015 and 2016, respectively. Although coastal and inland sites are <250 km apart, we observed distinct differences in the patterns and frequency of male singing. Overall, the mean number of songs per minute of males at inland sites near Kaladar was nearly triple that of coastal sites near Georgian Bay. Daily singing activity peaked shortly after sunrise and declined throughout the day at both sites. Daily singing activity was uniformly high across the entire morning period at coastal sites, whereas at inland sites the highest rates of singing were during the post-dawn morning period. Singing activity varied by chronological day at inland sites, with distinct peaks at the beginning and end of June. Singing at coastal sites did not vary by chronological day and was consistently low throughout June. Although our sample sizes are small, with minimal replication, we discuss our results in the context of reduced pairing success and male-biased sex ratios in small, isolated populations. In addition to documenting singing activity patterns to optimize future surveys for species of conservation concern, ARUs may also signal potential demographic differences important for population persistence that warrant further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standardized monitoring is critical for conservation because reliable survey data are used to inform the necessity, type, and effectiveness of conservation actions. Many of the avian monitoring data used for conservation are collected by "comprehensive" programs that survey for all species observed; however, there are some species that have low availability for detection during comprehensive surveys and are instead monitored with targeted programs. Unfortunately, those targeted programs are rarely evaluated relative to existing programs and management objectives to inform allocation of effort. We assessed the statistical performance of the comprehensive North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), the targeted Canadian Nightjar Survey (CNS), and the two programs combined for the Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor). First, we used parameters from the existing datasets to simulate population declines and determined the probability of detecting those declines. Analyses that combined both datasets resulted in higher probability of detecting a 30% population decline (BBS: 38%, CNS: 64%, combined: 69%). Next, we built probability of occurrence models and assessed the predictive performance of those models. Combined analyses had similar predictive performance to the CNS and moderated poor performance of the BBS in the north (mean Cohen's kappa; BBS: 0.40, CNS: 0.46, combined: 0.50). Our results suggest that data from targeted monitoring is important for evaluation of Common Nighthawk population trend and habitat relationships but is best combined with BBS data. Comprehensive and targeted monitoring programs may be better when considered together, and exploration of data combination should become the rule, not the exception. We suggest that the framework we present can be used as a starting point for evaluating targeted monitoring programs relative to defined objectives and existing programs, with the potential to explore hypothetical management scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of tumour response during and after radiotherapy determines the subsequent management of patients (adaptation of treatment plan, monitoring, adjuvant treatment, rescue treatment or palliative care). In addition to its role in extension assessment and therapeutic planning, positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography provides useful functional information for the evaluation of tumour response. The objective of this article is to review published data on positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography as a tool for evaluating external radiotherapy for cancers. Data on positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography scans acquired at different times (during, after initial and after definitive [chemo-]radiotherapy, during post-treatment follow-up) in solid tumours (lung, head and neck, cervix, oesophagus, prostate and rectum) were collected and analysed. Recent recommendations of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network are also reported. Positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography with (18F)-labelled fluorodeoxyglucose has a well-established role in clinical routine after chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced head and neck cancers, particularly to limit the number of neck lymph node dissection. This imaging modality also has a place for the evaluation of initial chemoradiotherapy of oesophageal cancer, including the detection of distant metastases, and for the post-therapeutic evaluation of cervical cancer. Several radiotracers for positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography, such as choline, are also recommended for patients with prostate cancer with biochemical failure. (18F)-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography is optional in many other circumstances and its clinical benefits, possibly in combination with MRI, to assess response to radiotherapy remain a very active area of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé: En 2015 un consensus international (STRIDE) a été publié par un groupe de gastroentérologues, et présentait le choix d'objectifs cliniques et thérapeutiques à atteindre et à suivre chez des patients atteints de rectocolite hémorragique (RCH) et de maladie de Crohn (MC). En 2019, au regard des connaissances actuelles et de nouveaux critères d'évaluation, des experts français ont souhaité rendre compte de leurs pratiques et de leur avis pragmatique, pour apporter des outils pour le suivi des patients atteints de MICI selon une approche treat-to-taget (T2T) : Quels objectifs cibler ? Comment et quand les atteindre ? Méthodes : Une méthodologie de consensus de type groupe nominal a été adoptée pour définir les objectifs thérapeutiques à rechercher et atteindre, les seuils et les délais pour les atteindre, chez les patients présentant une MC et une RCH. Résultats : Pour les deux maladies, les cibles à atteindre étaient les suivantes : le ressenti des patients sur leur expérience globale de la maladie (PRO-1), le ressenti des patients sur les troubles gastro-intestinaux (PRO-2), la cicatrisation endoscopique et le niveau des marqueurs biologiques de l'inflammation. L'état nutritionnel n'a été retenu que pour la MC. La cicatrisation histologique et la cicatrisation transmurale n'ont pas été retenues. Les délais pour atteindre les cibles et la fréquence de surveillance ont également été abordés. Conclusions : Selon une approche T2T, ce travail apporte aux praticiens les outils pour l'évaluation et le suivi des patients atteints de MC et de RCH. In 2015 an international consensus (STRIDE) has been published by gastroenterologists, whom developed recommendations upon clinical and therapeutic targets for ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn Disease (CD). In 2019, regarding the current knowledges and evaluation criteria, a French experts group reported their practices and their opinion, to bring tools for IBD patients monitoring, based on the Treat-to-Target approach. What are the targets? How and when to reach them? Methods : A nominal group consensus methodology has been used to define therapeutic targets, threshold and deadlines, for evaluation and monitoring of patients with CD and UC. Results: For both diseases, the agreed targets were: patient related outcomes on disease (PRO-1), patient related outcomes on gastrointestinal symptoms (PRO-2), endoscopic healing and biomarkers of inflammation. Nutritional status has been defined as a target for CD only. Histological healing and transmural healing were not defined as targets. Deadlines to achieve targets and monitoring frequency have been agreed as well. Conclusion: Focused on the Treat-to-Target approach, this work gave to practitioners' evaluation and monitoring tools for patients with CD and UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Forestry Chronicle is the property of Canadian Institute of Forestry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Larhyss Journal is the property of Biskra University, Research Laboratory in Subterranean & Surface Hydraulics and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study monitored strength-training adaptations via isometric parameters throughout 2 × 10 weeks of hypertrophic (HYP I-II) or 10 weeks maximum strength (MS) followed by 10 weeks power (P) training with untrained controls. Trainees performed bilateral isometric leg press tests analyzed for peak force (maximal voluntary contraction (MVC)) and rate of force development (RFD) every 3.5 weeks. These parameters were compared with dynamic performance, voluntary and electrically induced isometric contractions, muscle activity, and cross-sectional area (CSA) in the laboratory before and after 10 and 20 weeks. RFD increased similarly during the first 7 weeks (HYP I, 44% ± 53%; MS, 48% ± 55%, P < 0.05), but RFD continued to increase up to 65% ± 61% from baseline ( P < 0.01) only during P. These increases were concomitant with enhanced dynamic performances of 1-repetition maximum (1RM) (HYP I, 8% ± 6%; MS, 11% ± 6%, P < 0.001), and explosive repetitions during P (11% ± 15%, P < 0.05). Time to reach peak RFD differed ( P < 0.001) between HYP (mean 42 ± 20 ms) and MS-P (mean 31 ± 12 ms) groups because of training. The changes in MVC correlated with the changes in CSA during weeks 1-20 (HYP I-II, r = 0.664; MS-P, r = 0.595, P ≤ 0.05), as well as changes in 1RM ( r = 0.724, P < 0.05) during weeks 11-20 (HYP II). Muscle activity increased during MS and P only. Both MVC and RFD improvements reflected combinations of central and peripheral adaptations. RFD parameters may be effective tools to evaluate adaptations, particularly during maximal strength/power training, while MVC cannot distinguish between strength or muscle mass changes. Monitoring RFD provided important information regarding plateaus in RFD improvement, which were observed in dynamic explosive performances after HYP II compared with P. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the formal description of the concept "OSAGE" (Scientific Observatory in support of land managers) in its scientific, technical and organizational dimensions, the analysis of the real and specific case ROSELT/OSS observatory (The long term ecological surveillance observatories network/Sahara and Sahel Observatory) was carried out; this device started running in 1992 in order to combat desertification in the circum-Sahara. The comparison between the abstract model and this instance allows to test the validity of the abstract model (OSAGE), assess its advantages and implementation difficulties and further develop it. It also provides a formal framework to analyse ROSELT/OSS and measure how far ROSELT/OSS case complies with OSAGE model [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé Objectif Il était d’évaluer l’utilisation de l’alimentation parentérale (AP) au CHU UCL Namur (Belgique). Matériels et méthodes L’audit prospectif de trois mois analysait la prescription, l’administration et le suivi des AP. Divers indicateurs et paramètres étaient collectés (avant, pendant et après prescription), sélectionnés sur base de recommandations institutionnelles. Une analyse de l’adéquation des AP et du coût des journées d’AP inappropriées était réalisée. Résultats L’audit incluait 65 patients, pour 581 jours de traitement. L’indication était inappropriée pour 18 patients (27,7 %). Une suralimentation était observée pour 16 patients (24,6 %) lors de la prescription initiale et pour un tiers des journées d’AP. Le risque de syndrome de renutrition et un indice de masse corporelle inférieur à 18,5 kg/m 2 étaient des facteurs prédictifs (respectivement p = 0,017 et p < 0,001). Une pompe était utilisée pour 61 patients (93,8 %). Une voie veineuse inadéquate et un risque d’incompatibilité médicamenteuse étaient observés respectivement chez 4,9 et 42,4 % des patients. Au moins un épisode d’hyperglycémie était constaté pour 125 jours (32,5 %) d’AP, non traité dans un tiers des cas. Une absence de dosage plasmatique du phosphore, du magnésium et des triglycérides était notée pour respectivement 24,6 %, 29,2 % et 73,8 % des patients, et une absence de suivi pondéral pour 52,3 % des patients en cours de traitement. La sur-prescription de l’AP représentait 7813 € de coût direct. Conclusion L’audit met en évidence plusieurs opportunités d’optimisation en termes de prescription, d’administration et de suivi des AP. Il objective également un surcoût financier. L’intervention d’une équipe multidisciplinaire sera proposée comme une stratégie d’optimalisation. Objective It was to evaluate the use of parenteral nutrition (PN) at the CHU UCL Namur (Belgium). Method The three-month prospective audit analyzed prescription, administration and monitoring of PN. Indicators and parameters based on hospital guidelines were collected before, at start and during the treatment. Adequacy of prescription and cost analysis of inappropriate PN days were assessed. Results A total of 65 patients (and 581 days of treatment) were included. The indication was inappropriate for 18 patients (27, 7%). Overfeeding was observed for 16 patients (24.6%) at initiation and for one third of PN days. The risk of refeeding syndrome and a body mass index lower than 18.5 kg/m 2 were predictive factors ( P = 0.017 and P < 0.001, respectively). PN was correctly infused (pump) in 61 patients (94.0%). Inadequate venous route and risk for drug incompatibility were observed for respectively 4.9 and 42.4% of patients. At least one episode of hyperglycemia was found in 125 days (untreated in a third of cases). Phosphorus, magnesium and triglyceride levels were unchecked for 24.6%, 29.2%, and 73.8% of patients, respectively. Half of patients (52.3%) had no weight monitoring during the treatment. Overuse of PN represented 7813 € (109 days) (direct costs) for the study period. Conclusion This audit highlights several opportunities to optimize prescription, administration and monitoring of parenteral nutrition. Additional cost was found linked to the misuse of this treatment. In order to optimize parenteral nutrition, a multidisciplinary nutrition team support and monitoring will be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Lusofona de Educacao is the property of Universidade Lusofona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, CEIEF and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Annual, nationwide monitoring of the grouse (hunted tetraonid birds) began in Finland at the beginning of the 1960s followed by systematic counts of mammal snow tracks in the late 1980s. The wildlife triangle scheme, started in 1989, gathers game monitoring data throughout the country. The system is based on a large network of triangles made up of 4 km transects (totaling 12 km per triangle) covering the entire country. The program involves an astonishing amount of fieldwork: about 10 000 km of transect line (about half of the established transects) is studied during every summer and winter count. The riistakolmiot.fi internet service was launched for the 2014 late-summer count. Via the internet, trained hunters can record their observations in a database and follow the progress of the count during the fieldwork period. In the public section of the website, anyone can view the results of ongoing counts. The internet service speeds up the collection of observations, simplifies the storing of data, and assists in preparing and sending the summary reports. Data provided by the wildlife triangle scheme are utilized by the European Union, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, and other game administrative organizations, as well as hunting clubs and the general public. Annual results of the late-summer monitoring procedure are used immediately when deciding on the restrictions to the forthcoming grouse hunting season, which is due to begin just a few weeks later. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes the processes and procedures involved in planning, conducting and reporting monitoring activities for large Clinical Trials of Investigational Medicinal Products (CTIMPs), focusing on those conducted in resource-limited settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Forest Research is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Comparative studies across time and geographical regions are useful to improve our understanding of the health of wildlife populations. Our goal was to study parasitism in migratory caribou ( Rangifer tarandus (L., 1758)) of North America and Greenland. A total of 1507 caribou were sampled across 12 herds to assess seven of their main helminth and arthropod macroparasites between 1978 and 2010. We sought to determine which factors such as sex, age class, herd size, and season best explained the prevalence and intensity of those parasites. Intensity of warble fly ( Hypoderma tarandi (L., 1758)) larvae increased with age for males, whereas the opposite was observed in females. Prevalence of giant liver flukes ( Fascioloides magna (Bassi, 1875) Ward, 1917), tapeworm Taenia hydatigena Pallas, 1766, and nose bot fly ( Cephenemyia trompe (Modeer, 1786)) larvae was higher in adults than in calves. Prevalence of F. magna and T. hydatigena was higher at high herd size than at lower herd size. Greenland herds had the lowest prevalence of T. hydatigena and of the tapeworm Taenia krabbei Moniez, 1879, a higher intensity of H. tarandi, and a higher prevalence of C. trompe than the other herds. Of the herds from Quebec and Labrador, the Rivière-George herd had a higher prevalence of F. magna than the Rivière-aux-Feuilles herd. Our research provides the first comparative survey of these parasites of caribou across a broad spatial-temporal range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contrast to inequalities in health that stem from biological differences brought about by age or genetics, social inequalities in health are mutable and avoidable as they are affected by public policies. In recognition of the importance of these social influences on population health and inequalities, the World Health Organization adopted, in 2012, resolution WHA62.14 endorsing the Rio Political Declaration on Social Determinants of Health. With this resolution, member states recognize the existence of social determinants of health (SDH) and pledge to implement actions outlined in the Rio declaration, including to "monitor progress and increase accountability to inform policies on SDH." From 7 to 9 May 2014, the Quebec Inter-University Centre for Social Statistics held an international conference in Montreal. "Social Policy and Health Inequalities: An International Perspective" had as its primary objective showcasing leading-edge international research on the impact of social policies and programs on health inequalities in high-income countries. More specifically, the conference aimed to encourage international exchanges in order to demonstrate the range of research practices and outputs as well as to stimulate debate among the key stakeholders in this research process: organizations that produce statistics, researchers, and knowledge users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bones are the third most common site for metastases, after the liver and lungs. Bone metastases (BM) are most commonly found in areas of red bone marrow. When located in the spine, bone metastases are mainly located in the lumbar and lower thoracic regions. In long bones, metastases are almost always found in the metaphyseal and diaphyseal regions. Bone metastases are either osteolytic or osteoblastic. There are numerous exceptions: bone metastases can effect the whole skeleton due to the extensive distribution of haematopoietic bonemarrow in children. Distal bone metastases commonly occur during cases of metastatic disease, and lung cancer is most often the cause, with a net predominance of bone metastases in the hand. Bone metastases found exclusively in the cortical bone are rare. They are observed in the long bones of the lower limbs, in particular in the femur. In 50% of cases, they are as the result of lung cancer. Blowout or expansile bone metastases are common in thyroid and kidney cancers, and are often how the diseases are spotted. Finally, pseudosarcomatous bone metastasis that stimulate bone sarcoma due to the presence of an aggressive, spiking, periosteal reaction forming a large mass of soft tissue, are usually observed in prostate cancer. MRI and PET-scans are currently the preferred investigations performed to monitor bone metastases, enabling both a morphological and quantitative assessment to be made. For certain cancers, in particular prostate cancer, scintigraphy remains the investigation of choice. A CT scan will be requested to determine the extent of osteolysis and the risk of fracture, so that decisions regarding treatments can be made. X-rays will also be prescribed, focusing on areas of pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We revisit the common standards recommended by Ralph et al. (1993, 1995a) for conducting point-count surveys to assess the relative abundance of landbirds breeding in North America. The standards originated from discussions among ornithologists in 1991 and were developed so that point-count survey data could be broadly compared and jointly analyzed by national data centers with the goals of monitoring populations and managing habitat. Twenty years later, we revisit these standards because (1) they have not been universally followed and (2) new methods allow estimation of absolute abundance from point counts, but these methods generally require data beyond the original standards to account for imperfect detection. Lack of standardization and the complications it introduces for analysis become apparent from aggregated data. For example, only 3% of 196,000 point counts conducted during the period 1992-2011 across Alaska and Canada followed the standards recommended for the count period and count radius. Ten-minute, unlimited-count-radius surveys increased the number of birds detected by >300% over 3-minute, 50-m-radius surveys. This effect size, which could be eliminated by standardized sampling, was ⩾10 times the published effect sizes of observers, time of day, and date of the surveys. We suggest that the recommendations by Ralph et al. (1995a) continue to form the common standards when conducting point counts. This protocol is inexpensive and easy to follow but still allows the surveys to be adjusted for detection probabilities. Investigators might optionally collect additional information so that they can analyze their data with more flexible forms of removal and time-of-detection models, distance sampling, multiple-observer methods, repeated counts, or combinations of these methods. Maintaining the common standards as a base protocol, even as these study-specific modifications are added, will maximize the value of point-count data, allowing compilation and analysis by regional and national data centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), an uncommon songbird often associated with northern coniferous wetlands, has experienced a precipitous population decline since at least the early 20th century. Here, we provide the first analysis of breeding-habitat occupancy at the wetland scale and make recommendations for streamlined monitoring. We modeled occupancy and detectability as a function of site (i.e. habitat-based) and sampling (i.e. visit-specific) variables collected at 546 wetlands in northern New England, USA. Wetland occupancy (mean ± SE = 0.07 ± 0.02 in randomly selected wetlands, and 0.12 ± 0.02 in all wetlands surveyed) was best explained by variables describing Rusty Blackbird foraging habitat (PUDDLES: a proxy for shallow water), nesting habitat (coniferous adjacent uplands), and evidence of beavers. In contrast to Rusty Blackbirds' selection of pole-stage conifers at the nest-site scale, stand age did not affect occupancy at the wetland scale. It appears that most wetlands in northern coniferous forest landscapes, regardless of stand age, offer dense conifer patches nearby and provide suitable breeding habitat if quality foraging sites (e.g., areas of shallow water) also are available. Detectability (0.29 ± 0.04) decreased with increasing wind speed, and decreased about fourfold over the course of the breeding season. Rusty Blackbirds responded to broadcast of conspecific vocalizations by flying toward the observer and perching more often than prior to broadcast, demonstrating that broadcasts can be a useful tool to enhance visual detectability. Given our results, observers can now focus site selection on wetlands and sampling conditions most likely to maximize detections of Rusty Blackbirds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Building Research & Information is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

At present, monitoring tumor response to therapy is a crucial issue in oncology. In daily clinical practice, tumormarkers tests and anatomical imaging modalities are the most used techniques, but they have significant limits. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a molecular and functionnal imaging technique and, is by this fact, considered as a method of choice for assessing tumor response with cytotoxic chemotherapies and even more with targeted therapies. Some limits of 18F-fluoro-deoxy-glucose (18F-FDG) PET are overcome by the current development of new radioactive tracers. For those reasons, PET appears to be the most encouraging technique to assess tumor response for the next decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin de la Société de Pathologie Exotique is the property of John Libbey Eurotext Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the agricultural frontier of the Brazilian Amazon, the absence of territorial ownership hinders sustainable natural resources. Using field data from different institutions on the agricultural frontier of São Félix do Xingu in Pará state, this study aimed to automate through geotechnology, identification and monitoring of the dynamics of deforestation in the region, where the technical, informational and operating data are scarce, making it difficult to conduct research and development policies. The results showed that the understanding of the spatial configuration related groups of actors with different socioeconomic levels contributes to a better design of public policies that, when directed to the behavior of each category, contribute significantly to deforestation containment actions and plans for sustainable development in agricultural frontier regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To determine the improvement in positive predictive value of immunological failure criteria for identifying virological failure in HIV-infected children on antiretroviral therapy (ART) when a single targeted viral load measurement is performed in children identified as having immunological failure. Methods Analysis of data from children (<16 years at ART initiation) at South African ART sites at which CD4 count/per cent and HIV-RNA monitoring are performed 6-monthly. Immunological failure was defined according to both WHO 2010 and United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) 2008 criteria. Confirmed virological failure was defined as HIV-RNA >5000 copies/ml on two consecutive occasions <365 days apart in a child on ART for ≥18 months. Results Among 2798 children on ART for ≥18 months [median (IQR) age 50 (21-84) months at ART initiation], the cumulative probability of confirmed virological failure by 42 months on ART was 6.3%. Using targeted viral load after meeting DHHS immunological failure criteria rather than DHHS immunological failure criteria alone increased positive predictive value from 28% to 82%. Targeted viral load improved the positive predictive value of WHO 2010 criteria for identifying confirmed virological failure from 49% to 82%. Conclusion The addition of a single viral load measurement in children identified as failing immunologically will prevent most switches to second-line treatment in virologically suppressed children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ecoscience (Ecoscience) is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The natural reservoirs and biological characteristics of pathogenic populations of both subspecies of in aquatic habitants remain unclear because of difficulties in obtaining pathogenic strains from the environment. In the present study, we assessed the occurrence of Photobacterium damselae subsp. and Photobacterium damselae subsp. , considered to be the causative agent of past epizootic outbreaks in mullets collected in the river Magra, Italy. Two hundred and seventy-eight mullets were collected during a period of two years (2008-2009) and analyzed using multiplex PCR. During this period, 57% of fishes were positive for Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida and 37% for Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae, with an higher presence in summer months although none of PCR-positive mullets showed clinical signs of disease. Our results indicate that the two microrganisms are widespread in the population of mullets studied, and this could be a possible cause for outbreaks in favourable environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Forestry Chronicle is the property of Canadian Institute of Forestry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Animal Genetic Resources is the property of Cambridge University Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: Objectives: Validate the use of the PPLP scoring scale in the follow-up of athletes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Patient and method: We conducted a prospective follow-up study on athletes with ACL reconstruction during several time periods between 2003 and 2009, we analyzed the score validity, its reproducibility, its responsiveness to change and its relevance in the follow-up and monitoring of ACL reconstructive surgeries. Results: The PPLP scoring scale was defined for the monitoring of ACL reconstruction in athletes. The PPLP tool is made of two parts: the first one (PPLP1) with a total of 100 points for postoperative follow-up and the second one also with a total of 100 points (PPLP2) adding up to the first score for determining a final post-op monitoring score of 200 points. The PPLP2 scoring scale is administered at a distance from the initial ACL reconstruction. For construct validity, we showed the differences in items’ characteristics (coefficient r of 0.20 in 763 patients), and adequate correlation of the PPLP score to other scoring scales found in the literature (OAK, Lysholm, Tegner, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS], Arpege, IKDC Subjective Knee Evaluation Form and Psychovitality Test). The intra/interexaminer reproducibility is excellent going from 0.92 to 1. The PPLP scoring scale shows a statistically significant responsiveness to change during the hospital stay, according to the postoperative delay but with great variations. Complicated clinical evolutions (among 3296 ACL reconstructions with postoperative follow-up) are well identified by a low PPLP score, mainly for complex regional pain syndrome Type 1 (CRPS1: 1.9%) with a mean PPLP1 score of 80.33 whereas uncomplicated clinical evolutions (80.8%) have a mean score of 94.28 with a significant difference (p <0.0001). PPL2 scoring scale is significantly correlated to the possibility of getting back to competition (p =0.012) and a high score is linked to a faster return to competition (follow-up of 258 patients). The optimal threshold score is 176, and not 170/200, as previously suggested. However, this score remains poorly discriminating in regards to sensitivity (79.7%), specificity (49.3%) and the percentage of athletes returning to competition 2.5 months after completing the PPL2 scoring tool (37.9%). Conclusion: The PPLP scoring scale was validated in the French language in terms of construct validity, reproducibility and sensitivity. This scoring scale is used for the follow-up and monitoring of ACL reconstruction in athletes, providing useful information on the quality of their recovery particularly during the postoperative phase and the possibilities of getting back to competition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Outcome assessment of osteoarthritis both in daily practice and in clinical trials requires the use of diagnosis criteria (or at least classification criteria) and the use of valid, reliable, responsive measure tools. Osteoarthritis classification criteria can be clinical or clinical and radiological. At present, there is no international agreement on which criteria epidemiological and clinical trials should be based on, neither on which standardized procedures should be used for patients monitoring. The following review provides a description of the main osteoarthritis classification criteria and of the candidate measurement tools that merit consideration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]