Average Population Density Research Articles

Isolation, identification and culture of the marine rotifer Colurella adriatica Ehrenberg, 1831 (Family: Lepadellidae) from Andaman & Nicobar Islands: A promising live feed for larval rearing of high value shellfishes and finfishes

An extremely small rotifer was isolated from the micro zooplankton samples collected during February, 2014 from Havelock islands of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The species was identified as Colurella adriatica Ehrenberg, 1831 (Family: Lapadellidae). Its lorica length under culture period ranged from 47.530 to 98.868 μm and width from 34.308 to 56.277 μm. The size of the eggs, neonates and adults are also documented. Comparison of size of C. adriatica with Brachionus plicatilis (L type) and B. rotundiformis (S and SS type) revealed that C. adriatica is smaller in length and width than the SS-type rotifer which is currently used as a first feed in marine tropical fish larval rearing. However, the larvae of many marine food fishes including groupers and high value marine ornamental fishes are unable to consume the SS-type rotifers as a first feed due to their extremely small mouth gape. The culture of C. adriatica was carried out using Nannochloropsis oculata Diet-I), N. oculata and yeast (0.01g/litre) (Diet-II), Yeast (0.01g/litre) alone (Diet-III). Average population density of C. adriatica with these diets reached a maximum of 1000 nos. of individuals /ml on 10th day of culture on feeding with Diet-I; 950 nos. /ml on 14th day (Diet-II) and 650 nos. /ml on 15th day of culture (Diet-III). Diet I &II and Diet II &III did not show any significant difference (P>0.05) whereas, Diet I and III showed significant difference (P<0.01). Preliminary studies of C. adriatica as a feed to the larvae of Stenopus hispidus, Lysmata amboinensis and Pomacentrus caeruleus showed better survival than larvae fed with B. routundiformis during first phase of larval rearing.

Demographic inference under a spatially continuous coalescent model.

In contrast with the classical population genetics theory that models population structure as discrete panmictic units connected by migration, many populations exhibit heterogeneous spatial gradients in population connectivity across semi-continuous habitats. The historical dynamics of such spatially structured populations can be captured by a spatially explicit coalescent model recently proposed by Etheridge (2008) and Barton et al. (2010a, 2010b) and whereby allelic lineages are distributed in a two-dimensional spatial continuum and move within this continuum based on extinction and coalescent events. Though theoretically rigorous, this model, which we here refer to as the continuum model, has not yet been implemented for demographic inference. To this end, here we introduce and demonstrate a statistical pipeline that couples the coalescent simulator of Kelleher et al. (2014) that simulates genealogies under the continuum model, with an approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) framework for parameter estimation of neighborhood size (that is, the number of locally breeding individuals) and dispersal ability (that is, the distance an offspring can travel within a generation). Using empirically informed simulations and simulation-based ABC cross-validation, we first show that neighborhood size can be accurately estimated. We then apply our pipeline to the South African endemic shrub species Berkheya cuneata to use the resulting estimates of dispersal ability and neighborhood size to infer the average population density of the species. More generally, we show that spatially explicit coalescent models can be successfully integrated into model-based demographic inference.

Tamanho de amostra para avaliar a densidade populacional de percevejos em lavouras de soja

RESUMO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar o tamanho de amostra para medir a densidade populacional de espécies de percevejos, variando métodos de coleta, altitude e cultivares de soja. Foram utilizadas 100 lavouras de soja, distribuídas em nove municípios da região central do Rio Grande do Sul, em três safras agrícolas (2010/2011, 2011/2012, 2012/2013). Em cada lavoura, foram demarcados 30 pontos distantes em 20 metros entre si. Em cada ponto, foram coletados percevejos (adultos + ninfas) das espécies Dichelops sp., Piezodorus guildinii e Euchistus heros, por meio dos métodos pano-de-batida largo e rede entomológica, totalizando 6.000 coletas. Para cada lavoura, método de coleta e espéciede percevejo, foram estimadas a média da densidade populacional e o tamanho de amostra por meio de reamostragem. O tamanho de amostra (número de pontos) para determinar a densidade populacional de percevejos varia com o método de coleta e a densidade populacional. Usando o pano-de-batida largo para a coleta de percevejos em soja, para um erro de estimação (amplitude do intervalo de credibilidade) igual a dois percevejos e densidade populacional na classe de 1,5 a 2,0 percevejos m-2, o tamanho de amostra é 13, 77 e 15, respectivamente, para as espécies Dichelops sp., P. guildinii e E. heros.

Trends in wind-wave climate over the head Bay of Bengal region

The average population density is significantly higher along the nearshore coastal zones compared to inland areas. Therefore, proper assessment and evaluation of the impact of climate change on coastal belts has immense societal benefits. The head Bay region located in the north Indian Ocean is a thickly populated area and highly vulnerable to threats from sea-level rise and extreme weather events. In this study, the wave climatology for the north Indian Ocean specifically covering the head Bay region was examined, utilizing the past 21 years of satellite altimeter data for the period ranging from 1992 to 2012. In addition, the study also examines the significant wave heights obtained from the WAVEWATCH-III (WW3) model to substantiate and evaluate the findings of the observed variability from altimeter records. The study used daily altimeter data from eight satellite missions to understand the annual and seasonal variability in wind speed and significant wave heights for the head Bay region. The annual distribution of these parameters follow the climatology, whereas the percentage variability in both wind speed and significant wave height show a clear contrasting trend exhibiting a zonal dipole. The study establishes the fact that the responsible mechanism for this contrasting trend is the variations in mean sea level pressure over the head Bay region. In addition, a comprehensive analysis using empirical orthogonal function (EOF) shows that the second mode that represents the inter-seasonal variations substantiates the trend observed in the percentage distribution of these parameters. Interestingly, the study clearly signifies that trends in both wind speed and significant wave height was lower for the western side, unlike that noticed over the eastern portions in the head Bay of Bengal region.

Consummated Suicides among Barcelonas (Spain) Residents According to the Territorial Distribution of Family Income and Population Density (2012-2014)

Introduction: The aim of this study is to present an overview of socio-economic inequalities in suicide mortality among neighbourhoods in Barcelona according to territorial distribution of family income and population density during the period ranging from 2012 to 2014. Material and methods: 278 accomplished suicides were related to territorial distribution of family income and population density during the period ranging from 2012 to 2014. The rate of the territorial distribution of family income was less than 100 in the poorest neighbourhoods and more than 100 in wealthier neighbourhoods and the population average was 22.417 inhabitants according to our Council data. Results: In the poorest neighbourhoods 169 suicides occurred (60.79%) and in the richest neighbourhoods 109 (39.21%) (p<0.03). According to neighbourhoods with lower than average population density, the number of suicides were 65, (23.38 %) higher than the average population density 213, (76.61%) (p<0.001). The coefficient correlation was 0.16 (highly correlated). Conclusion: According to previous research, resources for suicide prevention should be targeted to high poverty/ deprivation areas, incorporating socio-economic disadvantage in prevention policy.

Penerapan Hygiene Sanitasi Makanan Minuman Di Lembaga Pemasyarakatan (LAPAS) Anak

Abstract: Application of hygiene and sanitation of food and drink in Lembaga Pemasyarakatan Anak (LAPAS). Lembaga Pemasyarakatan is have purpose to provide guidance to prisoner in Indonesia. The average population density Lapas the over capacity in Indonesia. Based on recent data form Kantor Wilayah Kementrian Hukum dan Hak Asasi Manusia, the number of population in LAPAS class II A Martapura was ranked third highestof the 13 LAPAS in Kalimantan Selatan with the number of population of about 921 people. With many of population, application of hygiene and sanitation of food an drink need to be implement for the implementation of food safety. The purpose of this research was to determine how the application of the hygiene and sanitation of food and drink in LAPAS class II A Martapura. The study was conducted by observing how security measures against food, equipment, food handlers, and food holder then comparing them with standard. The results showed thet the application of the hygiene and sanitation of food and drink in the category overall enough. For variable security measures on the equipment and food handlers in the category less, variable security measures on the food holder in the category enough, and variable security measures on the food in the category good. To the optimize application of hygiene and sanitation of food and drink in Lapas, efforts to do is add sanitation facilities food holder modify the open space, ordered food ingredients should not use the car open and do not slam, washed equipment performed with the correct phases and use soap, and stroge equipment stored in a safe place to minimize contamination of biological, physical, chemical. Keywords : Application Higiene and sanitation of food and drink

Sytuacja i polityka mieszkaniowa w Polsce - miejsce sektora publicznego w latach 2002–2011

The paper presents an analysis and assessment of changes in housing situation in Poland on basis of 2002 and 2011 Censuses. The analysis shows that between 2003–2011 a regression was observed in scale and significance of many elements of the public sector in housing in Poland. The regression corresponds with excessive market orientation of the housing policy in Poland and resulting immediacy and short-sightedness of institutional and legal regulations. Simultaneously, improvement in housing and increase in the average size and density of population of flats in Poland were observed, including in the public sector

Maternal Health Care Practices among Mothers of a Selected Slum in Dhaka City

Background: Bangladesh is a small South Asian country which became independent in 1971 after a bloody war. Rapid urbanisation in Bangladesh (26% of the 147.1 million inhabitants live in urban areas) is fuelling a growth in urban poverty, particularly in the urban slums where the quality of life is extremely poor. The average population density in slums was reported in 2005 as 831 persons per acre or 205,415 people per square kilometre.1 Early commencement of antenatal care by pregnant women as well as regular visits has the potential to affect maternal and foetal outcome.Objective: To assess the status of ANC service used by the pregnant mothers and their socio-demographic characteristics.Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Moghbazar slum area in Dhaka district of Bangladesh, during January to June 2014. A total of 161 slum dwellers were enrolled in the study. Information regarding education, occupation, monthly family income, antenatal care was gathered using a pretested structured questionnnare and data were analysed.Results: The majority respondents had knowledge about antenatal care and of them 89 (55.2%) completed ?3 visits. Forty five (47.8%) pregnant women received ANC from government hospitals. Nearly 72% mothers received ANC service from doctors and 16.9% received from family welfare visitors (FWV). Half of mothers were satisfied with the overall care provided to them. About 86.2% mothers said that they had to wait for more than two hours for check-ups. More than 50% received information about exercise and 36% were reassured about discussing fear and anxiety about pregnancy.Conclusion: This study reveals that antenatal care provided was not up to the mark of standard care and measures should be taken to improve it.J Enam Med Col 2015; 5(3): 166-169

KAJIAN DAERAH TERINTRUSI AIR LAUT DI WILAYAH PESISIR KECAMATAN KUTA UTARA, KABUPATEN BADUNG

The total population of District Kuta Utara 2014 recorded 68.422 people with an average population density of 2,021 people/km2 while the number of tourism accommodation facilities (hotels, villas, restaurants) recorded 399 pieces. The rapid of population growth and the development of tourism accommodation facilities require ground water more increasing. Intake of large amounts of ground water potential to cause pollution/ sea water intrusion. This study aims to determine the quality of the groundwater, knowing distribution maps sea water intrusion and to predict the level of sea water intrusion coming years. This research method uses descriptive quantitative method. Furthermore, to determine the quantity and quality of ground water was measured groundwater levels and analysis of the parameters of temperature, total dissolved solid, pH, chloride, hardness and electrical conductivity of the 60 sample wells. Results of analysis of each of the key parameters that can be mapped and known overlay distribution maps sea water intruded area. The observation of the quantity and quality of groundwater in coastal areas of Kuta Utara subdistrict shows the range of the depth of the ground water level between -5.15 meters to -22.16 meters. Results of the analysis of ground water quality of the 60 groundwater samples showed that there has been a decline in the quality of ground water is as much as 14 samples total dissolved solid (TDS) the highest reaches 1,122 mg/ l, the highest electrical conductivity reached 1,677 ìMhos / cm and the highest chloride reached 532, 5 mg/l. Distribution maps sea water intruded area shows that in coastal areas troubled district of Kuta Utara indicated seawater intrusion, especially in the area of Petitenget and Batubelig, Kerobokan Kelod Village area of 78.44 Ha. Prediction of sea water intrusion in 2022 was highest in the area of tourism accommodation caused by ground water extraction enough much, kind of gray-brown soil regosol has a rough texture and high permeability characteristics so it is easy to pass groundwater.

Feral cat home‐range size varies predictably with landscape productivity and population density

AbstractAn understanding of the factors that drive inter‐population variability in home‐range size is essential for managing the impacts of invasive species with broad global distributions, such as the feral domestic cat (Felis catus). The assumption that home‐range sizes scale negatively with landscape productivity is fundamental to many spatial behaviour models, and inter‐site variation in landscape productivity has often been invoked to explain the vast differences in feral cat home‐range sizes among different regions. However, the validity of this explanation has not been tested or described. We used regression models to examine the ability of remotely sensed landscape productivity data, average body weight and population density to explain differences in the size of feral cat home ranges estimated across a diverse collection of sites across the globe. As expected for a solitary polygynous carnivore, female cats occupied smaller home ranges in highly productive sites, and range sizes of male cats scaled positively with those of females. However, the relationship between range size and productivity broke down at highly seasonal sites. Home‐range size also scaled negatively with population density, but there was no clear relationship with average body weight. The relationships we describe should be useful for predicting home‐range sizes and for designing effective feral cat control and monitoring programmes in many situations. More generally, these results confirm the importance of landscape productivity in shaping the spatial distribution of solitary carnivores, but the nature of the relationship is more complicated than is often appreciated.

Forecasting fish biomasses, densities, productions, and bioaccumulation potentials of mid-atlantic wadeable streams.

Regional fishery conditions of Mid-Atlantic wadeable streams in the eastern United States are estimated using the Bioaccumulation and Aquatic System Simulator (BASS) bioaccumulation and fish community model and data collected by the US Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP). Average annual biomasses and population densities and annual productions are estimated for 352 randomly selected streams. Realized bioaccumulation factors (BAF) and biomagnification factors (BMF), which are dependent on these forecasted biomasses, population densities, and productions, are also estimated by assuming constant water exposures to methylmercury and tetra-, penta-, hexa-, and hepta-chlorinated biphenyls. Using observed biomasses, observed densities, and estimated annual productions of total fish from 3 regions assumed to support healthy fisheries as benchmarks (eastern Tennessee and Catskill Mountain trout streams and Ozark Mountains smallmouth bass streams), 58% of the region's wadeable streams are estimated to be in marginal or poor condition (i.e., not healthy). Using simulated BAFs and EMAP Hg fish concentrations, we also estimate that approximately 24% of the game fish and subsistence fishing species that are found in streams having detectable Hg concentrations would exceed an acceptable human consumption criterion of 0.185 μg/g wet wt. Importantly, such streams have been estimated to represent 78.2% to 84.4% of the Mid-Atlantic's wadeable stream lengths. Our results demonstrate how a dynamic simulation model can support regional assessment and trends analysis for fisheries.

EVALUATION OF ANTHROPOGENIC PRESSURES ON ECOSYSTEMS BY USING OF THE INTEGRAL ORIBATID MITES COMMUNITY’S INDEX

Complex estimation of the basic ecological indicators of oribatid mite community in areas with three different forms of anthropogenic stress (agricultural, technological and recreational) was conducted. The environmental quality level was assessed by the integral index of oribatid mite communities based on five criteria: average population density, species richness, dominance structure, life form ratio, Shannon’s ecological diversity index. In general, the anthropogenic influence manifested in reducing of the average population richness, species and ecological diversity and simplifying of the domination structure and oribatid life forms structure. The possibility of using of the integral oribatid mites community’s index for the comprehensive assessment of anthropogenic influence on ecosystems was shown. The applying of this indicator for bioindication and biomonitoring was proposed.

The Use of Camera Traps for Monitoring the Population of Long-Tailed Gorals

The long-tailed goral (Nemorhaedus caudatus) is a rare montane ungulate species with a patchy distribution. In the Sikhote-Alin Reserve, gorals occupy the northern part of their range, concentrated primarily in a small coastal area (6.4km2) in Abrek Urochishe. Our pilot study tested the feasibility of individual photo-identification of gorals and population size estimation using the capture–recapture method. We used 10 camera traps spaced 0.6–2km apart on coastal slopes to monitor the gorals. Four additional cameras were placed at the Reserve boundaries, mainly for law enforcement purposes, such as documenting trespassers. Between June 1 and December 31, 2013, we collected nearly 3000 photographs of gorals, 500 photographs of other wildlife, and 12 images of illegal activities within the Reserve. The total sampling effort was 1870 camera days. Photo data showed that goral horns are reliable biometric identifiers, distinguishable by size, shape, pattern, and the number of rings. The proportion of individually identified gorals in our photos was 0.64 (SE=0.05). Most individuals (45) were marked (i.e., first detected on camera) in the fall; therefore, preliminary estimates of the goral population size were made between October 11 and December 20, 2013. A closure test confirmed that the population was, in fact, closed (z=−2.670, P=0.004). The best-fit closed population multiple recapture model for our data was the heterogeneity model Mh (programme CAPTURE), which assumes an unequal capture probability (χ2=112.19; d.f.=9; P=0.000). The average goral capture probability was 0.16, and the corresponding population size was estimated at 90 individuals (SE=6.91; 95% CI: 77–125 individuals). The average goral population density in a 3.5km2 effective sampled area (56% of the entire plot area) was 25 individuals/km2 (SE=5.62). Extrapolation to locations that lacked data suggests that Abrek Urochishe supports a goral population of 160 individuals. Our results demonstrate that camera trap data can be used for photographic capture–recapture sampling of goral populations. This approach may be more effective than traditional visual surveys of montane ungulates that tend to underestimate the population abundance. The use of camera traps will undoubtedly enhance goral monitoring efforts, aiding in the conservation of this rare species.

ЭКОЛОГИЧЕСКАЯ СТРУКТУРА НАСЕЛЕНИЯ ПАНЦИРНЫХ КЛЕЩЕЙ (КАРЬЕР «ОСНОВНОЙ», ДОНЕЦКАЯ ОБЛАСТЬ)

&lt;p&gt;In the successional recovery processes of quarry-spoiled systems soil-living oribatide mites, who are one of the pioneer groups inhabiting anthropogenically transformed areas, play a significant role. The aim of our study was to research composition and characteristics of oribatide mites ecological community structure of the ‘Osnovnoy’ quarry (PJSC ‘HeidelbergCement Ukraine’) in Amvrosievsky district of Donetsk region.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;The material was collected in 2012. In total, 37 standard soil samples of 250 cm&lt;sup&gt;3&lt;/sup&gt; were collected, from which 1086 adult specimen, who belong to 61 species, were extracted in April. The collection of soil samples and forcing of oribatides in thermoelectors was conducted by the conventional method of E. M. Bulanovа-Zahvatkinа. To analyze the communities domination structure the gradations of dominance by the means of G. Engelmann scale was used. The analysis of the oribatides morpho-ecological types distribution was held in accordance to the work of D. A. Krivolutsky. To assess the ecological diversity of oribatides communities the indices of Shannon, Pielou, Simpson and Margalef were used.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;On the territory of the «Osnovnoy» quarry, a specific complex with a unique oribatid species composition was detected (two new species were found for the fauna of Ukraine noted earlier for the steppes of Mongolia: &lt;em&gt;Ghilarovus khentiicus&lt;/em&gt; Bayartogtokh, Smelyansky, 2007 and &lt;em&gt;Hemileius humeralis&lt;/em&gt; Perez-Inigo, 1990).&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;During the analysis of the oribatide communities ecological structure low rates of average population density (7280-11410 ind./m&lt;sup&gt;2&lt;/sup&gt;) were observed with high species wealth (61 species found). The maximum figure made up in spring, the minimum – in summer.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;The ecological diversity indexes are quite high, thus the maximum for Shannon index in spring is 2.89, which is comparable to that of the conserved areas.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;The quarry dominant species are &lt;em&gt;Multioppia glabra, Protoribates capucinus, Tectocepheus velatus, Scheloribates laevigatus, &lt;/em&gt;and&lt;em&gt; Zygoribatula frisiae&lt;/em&gt;. A distinctive feature of the oribatid mites’ population structure at the technogenic landscape is the presence of a large number of rare species, especially in spring, which is comparable to that in the undisturbed grassland ecosystems.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;In the oribatid life forms spectrum the presence of all morpho-ecological types is noted, which is a key feature for intact landscapes. In summer and autumn period a clear predominance of secondary specialized forms, typical for anthropogenic landscapes, was observed; in spring the structure is more aligned, and the residents of small soil wells make up a significant part of the population.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Key words: oribatid mites, &lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;ecological structure&lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;, &lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;ecological community&lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;, &lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;technogenic ecosystems&lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Owned dog and cat populations in remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory: a retrospective study.

To determine the population of owned dogs and cats in Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory (NT), and compare the data with those for the average Australian household. Results of 20 Indigenous community animal health programs were analysed for species present and dog and cat numbers. The female breeding and puppy populations were also identified. The average dog population density was significantly higher than the average Australian household, with an average of 24.4 dogs per 10 households, but the average cat population density was similar (3.3 cats per 10 households). Numbers of other species were not determined. The average percentage of puppies in these communities was 17.6% of the treated canine population, the average percentage of breeding canine females was 18.6% of the treated canine population, and the average percentage of breeding feline females was 19.7% of the total feline population. Dog populations in NT Indigenous communities were at least 6.3-fold higher per household compared with data for the rest of Australia. Cat populations per household were similar to the overall population. Factors contributing to the relatively high dog populations in remote Indigenous communities include a lack of veterinary presence, community remoteness, poor socioeconomic factors, poor house and yard designs, cultural reasons, communal beliefs, lack of community animal management and a lack of funding. We believe that animal health programs are an important way of addressing a number of these issues. Other elements that should be addressed include improving house and yard design, increasing education regarding animal health, care and welfare, and increasing the training and presence of health and animal professionals.

Formation of urchin-like CuO structure through thermal oxidation and its field-emission lighting application

Urchin-like CuO microstructures were formed using simple, template-free, one-step thermal oxidation of Cu solid microspheres in an air atmosphere at temperatures ranging from 350 to 500°C. The urchin-like CuO microstructure consists of crystalline CuO nanowires grown radially on the surface of the sphere, a shell layer of CuO a few micrometers in thickness, and a hollow core. Study of the formation mechanism revealed that during oxidation, the nanowires grow from the surface, and the diameter, length, and population density of the nanowires increase with the oxidation time. For a sample formed at 450°C for a dwell time of 24h, the average diameter, length, and population density of the nanowires were 44.0nm, 11.5μm, and 25nanowires/μm2, respectively. The novel urchin-like structure and high aspect ratio of the nanowires elicit unique properties. Study of the magnetic properties revealed that the urchin-like CuO is a semihard magnetic material with a coercive force of 135Oe. Studies on the field-emission characteristics of the material demonstrated that an urchin-like emitter had a low turn-on field of 2.94V/μm, a high field enhancement factor of 3715, a high luminance of 11,080cd/m2, an excellent emission uniformity of over 3.5×3.5cm2, and high emission stability during a 50-h test at a current density of 100μA/cm2.

Comparison of asthma prevalence among African American teenage youth attending public high schools in rural Georgia and urban Detroit

The high prevalence of asthma among urban African American (AA) populations has attracted research attention, whereas the prevalence among rural AA populations is poorly documented. We sought to compare the prevalence of asthma among AA youth in rural Georgia and urban Detroit, Michigan. The prevalence of asthma was compared in population-based samples of 7297 youth attending Detroit public high schools and in 2523 youth attending public high schools in rural Georgia. Current asthma was defined as a physician diagnosis and symptoms in the previous 12 months. Undiagnosed asthma was defined as multiple respiratory symptoms in the previous 12 months without a physician diagnosis. In Detroit, 6994 (95.8%) youth were AA compared with 1514 (60.0%) in Georgia. Average population density in high school postal codes was 5628 people/mile(2) in Detroit and 45.1 people/mile(2) in Georgia. The percentages of poverty and of students qualifying for free or reduced lunches were similar in both areas. The prevalence of current diagnosed asthma among AA youth in Detroit and Georgia was similar: 15.0% (95% CI, 14.1-15.8) and 13.7% (95% CI, 12.0-17.1) (P=.22), respectively. The prevalence of undiagnosed asthma in AA youth was 8.0% in Detroit and 7.5% in Georgia (P= .56). Asthma symptoms were reported more frequently among those with diagnosed asthma in Detroit, whereas those with undiagnosed asthma in Georgia reported more symptoms. Among AA youth living in similar socioeconomic circumstances, asthma prevalence is as high in rural Georgia asit is in urban Detroit, suggesting that urban residence is notan asthma risk factor.

The path to host extinction can lead to loss of generalist parasites.

Host extinction can alter disease transmission dynamics, influence parasite extinction and ultimately change the nature of host-parasite systems. While theory predicts that single-host parasites are among the parasite species most susceptible to extinction following declines in their hosts, documented parasite extinctions are rare. Using a comparative approach, we investigate how the richness of single-host and multi-host parasites is influenced by extinction risk among ungulate and carnivore hosts. Host-parasite associations for free-living carnivores (order Carnivora) and terrestrial ungulates (orders Perissodactyla+Cetartiodactyla minus cetaceans) were merged with host trait data and IUCN Red List status to explore the distribution of single-host and multi-host parasites among threatened and non-threatened hosts. We find that threatened ungulates harbour a higher proportion of single-host parasites compared to non-threatened ungulates, which is explained by decreases in the richness of multi-host parasites. However, among carnivores threat status is not a significant predictor of the proportion of single-host parasites, or the richness of single-host or multi-host parasites. The loss of multi-host parasites from threatened ungulates may be explained by decreased cross-species contact as hosts decline and habitats become fragmented. Among carnivores, threat status may not be important in predicting patterns of parasite specificity because host decline results in equal losses of both single-host parasites and multi-host parasites through reduction in average population density and frequency of cross-species contact. Our results contrast with current models of parasite coextinction and highlight the need for updated theories that are applicable across host groups and account for both inter- and intraspecific contact.

The Weight of Inequality: Variation with Industrialization and Wealth

When other economic measurements are scarce or unreliable, height and the body mass index (BMI) are now well accepted measures for cumulative and current net nutrition. However, as the ratio of weight to height, BMI is the ratio of current to cumulative net nutrition, therefore, does not fully isolate changes in current net nutrition. This study uses weight after controlling for height as a measure for current net nutrition and shows that US black and white weights decreased throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, were higher in the South, and for farmers and unskilled workers. Like stature and BMI, 19th century weight was higher in states with greater average wealth and population density and lower in states with greater wealth inequality.

Defining rural areas of Visegrad countries

The article is focused on the introduction and categorization of various approaches to rurality, and the identification and delimitation of rural areas in Visegrad countries. Three substantively different groups of conceptualizations and definitions of rural and rurality are described as follows: functional definitions, rural as locality (political-economic approaches), and social representation. Latter, basic sorts of methods and appro - aches to the delimitation of rural areas in V4 countries are introduced emphasizing its historical development, differences in spatial level and criteria of delimitation in current research. Due to different nature of rural areas and even local administrative units (the basic units usually used for delimitation of rural areas), it is not possible to reach sufficient and reliable identification of rural areas for whole V4 area using any of criteria or definitions applied in the research at national levels. Therefore, the average population density of entire V4 area was used as a main criterion for distinguishing between urban and rural LAU 2 at the whole Visegrad area level. Such approach is also affected by generalization but it captures various conditions in each country relatively well and moreover, it is comparable with the OECD and European Union methods to some extent.