Hans Kruuk
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198565871
- eISBN:
- 9780191728228
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198565871.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology, Animal Biology
Hans Kruuk's previous Wild Otters was the first, and until now the only, book to cover both natural history and scientific research on behaviour and ecology of otters in Europe. The present book is a ...
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Hans Kruuk's previous Wild Otters was the first, and until now the only, book to cover both natural history and scientific research on behaviour and ecology of otters in Europe. The present book is a revision, rewrite, and update, now covering all species of otter in North America as well as Europe and elsewhere. Aimed at naturalists, scientists, and conservationists, in a personal style and with many illustrations, it describes the ecology and behaviour of some of the most charismatic and enigmatic mammals in our environment, as well as the research to understand their particular ecological problems. With over 650 references, there is up-to-date description of the most recent studies, including feeding ecology, foraging behaviour, relationships with prey species, and factors that limit populations, as well as social and breeding behaviour, molecular genetics, energetics, the problems of exposure to cold water, mortality, effects of pollution, and the serious, recent conservation problems. There are enchanting direct observations of the animals, as well as guidance about how and where to watch and study them, and what are the most serious questions facing researchers. From otters in the British and American lakes and rivers, to sea otters in the Pacific ocean, giant otters in the Amazon and other species in Africa and Asia, this book provides an enthusiastic, critical, and thorough approach to their fascinating existence, the science needed to understand it, and the threats to their survival.Less
Hans Kruuk's previous Wild Otters was the first, and until now the only, book to cover both natural history and scientific research on behaviour and ecology of otters in Europe. The present book is a revision, rewrite, and update, now covering all species of otter in North America as well as Europe and elsewhere. Aimed at naturalists, scientists, and conservationists, in a personal style and with many illustrations, it describes the ecology and behaviour of some of the most charismatic and enigmatic mammals in our environment, as well as the research to understand their particular ecological problems. With over 650 references, there is up-to-date description of the most recent studies, including feeding ecology, foraging behaviour, relationships with prey species, and factors that limit populations, as well as social and breeding behaviour, molecular genetics, energetics, the problems of exposure to cold water, mortality, effects of pollution, and the serious, recent conservation problems. There are enchanting direct observations of the animals, as well as guidance about how and where to watch and study them, and what are the most serious questions facing researchers. From otters in the British and American lakes and rivers, to sea otters in the Pacific ocean, giant otters in the Amazon and other species in Africa and Asia, this book provides an enthusiastic, critical, and thorough approach to their fascinating existence, the science needed to understand it, and the threats to their survival.
Devi Sridhar
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199549962
- eISBN:
- 9780191720499
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199549962.003.0005
- Subject:
- Political Science, International Relations and Politics, Political Economy
This chapter presents findings on the impact of the Bank framework of women as ‘agents of change’ on the Bank's projects and the communities at which they are aimed, using TINP. It is a critical ...
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This chapter presents findings on the impact of the Bank framework of women as ‘agents of change’ on the Bank's projects and the communities at which they are aimed, using TINP. It is a critical analysis of local understandings of TINP, specifically the tools of growth monitoring of preschool children, supplementary feeding, and health education for mothers. In addition, knowledge and practice of child care in Tamil Nadu and women's groups are discussed along with reflections on the main obstacles to addressing undernutrition in Tamil Nadu. The chapter examines the relative importance of choice and circumstance in explaining child hunger.Less
This chapter presents findings on the impact of the Bank framework of women as ‘agents of change’ on the Bank's projects and the communities at which they are aimed, using TINP. It is a critical analysis of local understandings of TINP, specifically the tools of growth monitoring of preschool children, supplementary feeding, and health education for mothers. In addition, knowledge and practice of child care in Tamil Nadu and women's groups are discussed along with reflections on the main obstacles to addressing undernutrition in Tamil Nadu. The chapter examines the relative importance of choice and circumstance in explaining child hunger.
Carel P. van Schaik, Maria A. van Noordwijk, and Erin R Vogel
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199213276
- eISBN:
- 9780191707568
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199213276.003.0018
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology, Biodiversity / Conservation Biology
Sex differences in diet, ranging, and activity budgets (‘ecology’) can have two plausible, non-exclusive causes: differential needs due to reproduction in females and differences in body size, as ...
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Sex differences in diet, ranging, and activity budgets (‘ecology’) can have two plausible, non-exclusive causes: differential needs due to reproduction in females and differences in body size, as well as sex differences in sociosexual strategies, usually because males are forced to travel more widely or minimize feeding time relative to females. The authors of this chapter evaluated these two hypotheses by examining sex differences in the ecology of orangutans inhabiting a Sumatran swamp forest, using two different methods. The greater reproductive burden on females is reflected in their spending more time per day feeding overall, more time foraging on insects, and less time resting, but females did not engage more in tool-assisted foraging or less in acquiring vertebrate meat. Despite the large range of body sizes, the influence of body size on time budgets, diet and the toughness and elasticity of food items was minor. However, larger males spent more time feeding on fruit than smaller ones. The other differences between unflanged males and flanged males were more compatible with different sociosexual strategies: unflanged males moved more and travelled faster than flanged males, and had shorter feeding bouts. Thus, the overall pattern of differences largely reflects sex differences in requirements due to reproduction and male sociosexual strategies. The effects of body size on diet may be so small because tooth morphology rather than body strength determine food choice.Less
Sex differences in diet, ranging, and activity budgets (‘ecology’) can have two plausible, non-exclusive causes: differential needs due to reproduction in females and differences in body size, as well as sex differences in sociosexual strategies, usually because males are forced to travel more widely or minimize feeding time relative to females. The authors of this chapter evaluated these two hypotheses by examining sex differences in the ecology of orangutans inhabiting a Sumatran swamp forest, using two different methods. The greater reproductive burden on females is reflected in their spending more time per day feeding overall, more time foraging on insects, and less time resting, but females did not engage more in tool-assisted foraging or less in acquiring vertebrate meat. Despite the large range of body sizes, the influence of body size on time budgets, diet and the toughness and elasticity of food items was minor. However, larger males spent more time feeding on fruit than smaller ones. The other differences between unflanged males and flanged males were more compatible with different sociosexual strategies: unflanged males moved more and travelled faster than flanged males, and had shorter feeding bouts. Thus, the overall pattern of differences largely reflects sex differences in requirements due to reproduction and male sociosexual strategies. The effects of body size on diet may be so small because tooth morphology rather than body strength determine food choice.
William R. Clark
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195336214
- eISBN:
- 9780199868537
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195336214.003.0006
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
If the purpose of bioterrorism is social and economic disruption, and the spread of fear and uncertainty across as many people as possible, for as long as possible, disruption of food and water ...
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If the purpose of bioterrorism is social and economic disruption, and the spread of fear and uncertainty across as many people as possible, for as long as possible, disruption of food and water supplies – agroterrorism - can be a major weapon. People dying of thirst or starvation is actually a rather low-probability outcome of an agroterrorism attack. The US is a major supplier of food to the world, and agricultural exports account for a sizeable portion of America's trade income – about fifty billion dollars per year. Pathogenic contamination of American food supplies, which feed a sizeable portion of the world community, could bring about economic disaster the likes of which have not been seen since the Great Depression. It would affect not just farmers and agribusinesses who grow food for export: the collateral damage stemming from interference with this sector of our nation's business would ripple through the rest of our economy like a hot knife through butter.Less
If the purpose of bioterrorism is social and economic disruption, and the spread of fear and uncertainty across as many people as possible, for as long as possible, disruption of food and water supplies – agroterrorism - can be a major weapon. People dying of thirst or starvation is actually a rather low-probability outcome of an agroterrorism attack. The US is a major supplier of food to the world, and agricultural exports account for a sizeable portion of America's trade income – about fifty billion dollars per year. Pathogenic contamination of American food supplies, which feed a sizeable portion of the world community, could bring about economic disaster the likes of which have not been seen since the Great Depression. It would affect not just farmers and agribusinesses who grow food for export: the collateral damage stemming from interference with this sector of our nation's business would ripple through the rest of our economy like a hot knife through butter.
J. Eduardo P. W. Bicudo, William A. Buttemer, Mark A. Chappell, James T. Pearson, and Claus Bech
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199228447
- eISBN:
- 9780191711305
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199228447.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Ornithology
This book focuses on the current understanding of a set of topics in ecological and environmental physiology that are of particular interest to ornithologists, but which also have broad biological ...
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This book focuses on the current understanding of a set of topics in ecological and environmental physiology that are of particular interest to ornithologists, but which also have broad biological relevance. The introductory chapter covers the basic body plan of birds and their still-enigmatic evolutionary history. The focus then shifts to a consideration of the essential components of that most fundamental of avian attributes: the ability to fly. The emphasis is on feather evolution and development, flight energetics and aerodynamics, migration, and as a counterpoint, the curious secondary evolution of flightlessness that has occurred in several lineages. This sets the stage for subsequent chapters, which present specific physiological topics within a strongly ecological and environmental framework. Chapter 2 covers gas exchange and thermal and osmotic balance, together with the central role of body size. Chapter 3 addresses ‘classical’ life history parameters — male and female reproductive costs, parental care and investment in offspring, and fecundity versus longevity tradeoffs — from an eco-physiological perspective. Chapter 4 offers a comprehensive analysis of feeding and digestive physiology, adaptations to challenging environments (high altitude, deserts, marine habitats, cold), developmental adaptations, and neural specializations (notably those important in foraging, long-distance navigation, and song production). Throughout the book, classical studies are integrated with the latest research findings. Numerous important and intriguing questions await further work, and the book concludes with a discussion of research methods and approaches — emphasizing cutting-edge technology — and a final chapter on future directions that should help point the way forward for both young and senior scientists.Less
This book focuses on the current understanding of a set of topics in ecological and environmental physiology that are of particular interest to ornithologists, but which also have broad biological relevance. The introductory chapter covers the basic body plan of birds and their still-enigmatic evolutionary history. The focus then shifts to a consideration of the essential components of that most fundamental of avian attributes: the ability to fly. The emphasis is on feather evolution and development, flight energetics and aerodynamics, migration, and as a counterpoint, the curious secondary evolution of flightlessness that has occurred in several lineages. This sets the stage for subsequent chapters, which present specific physiological topics within a strongly ecological and environmental framework. Chapter 2 covers gas exchange and thermal and osmotic balance, together with the central role of body size. Chapter 3 addresses ‘classical’ life history parameters — male and female reproductive costs, parental care and investment in offspring, and fecundity versus longevity tradeoffs — from an eco-physiological perspective. Chapter 4 offers a comprehensive analysis of feeding and digestive physiology, adaptations to challenging environments (high altitude, deserts, marine habitats, cold), developmental adaptations, and neural specializations (notably those important in foraging, long-distance navigation, and song production). Throughout the book, classical studies are integrated with the latest research findings. Numerous important and intriguing questions await further work, and the book concludes with a discussion of research methods and approaches — emphasizing cutting-edge technology — and a final chapter on future directions that should help point the way forward for both young and senior scientists.
Darryl Jones
- Published in print:
- 2018
- Published Online:
- September 2018
- ISBN:
- 9781501710780
- eISBN:
- 9781501710797
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Cornell University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7591/cornell/9781501710780.001.0001
- Subject:
- Environmental Science, Nature
Feeding wild birds in gardens and backyards is one of the most popular forms of interaction between humans and wild animals. Yet despite the enormous scale of this activity and the millions of people ...
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Feeding wild birds in gardens and backyards is one of the most popular forms of interaction between humans and wild animals. Yet despite the enormous scale of this activity and the millions of people involved throughout the world, remarkably little is known about the practice or the potential implications associated with the provisioning of vast amounts of food, all of which is additional to the bird’s natural diet. Many questions arise: Does bird feeding change wildlife communities? Does it aid the spread of disease? Is it essential for the conservation of many struggling species, especially in urban areas? And why are so many people passionately engaged, and willing to spend considerable sums on this practice? This is the first book to attempt to address these and many other questions associated with this global activity, exploring many complex issues through both science and the personal experience of bird feeders themselves.Less
Feeding wild birds in gardens and backyards is one of the most popular forms of interaction between humans and wild animals. Yet despite the enormous scale of this activity and the millions of people involved throughout the world, remarkably little is known about the practice or the potential implications associated with the provisioning of vast amounts of food, all of which is additional to the bird’s natural diet. Many questions arise: Does bird feeding change wildlife communities? Does it aid the spread of disease? Is it essential for the conservation of many struggling species, especially in urban areas? And why are so many people passionately engaged, and willing to spend considerable sums on this practice? This is the first book to attempt to address these and many other questions associated with this global activity, exploring many complex issues through both science and the personal experience of bird feeders themselves.
Buzsáki György
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195301069
- eISBN:
- 9780199863716
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195301069.003.0003
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Neuroendocrine and Autonomic, Techniques
In addition to principal cells, the cerebral cortex contains diverse classes of interneurons that selectively and discriminately innervate various parts of principal cells and each other. The ...
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In addition to principal cells, the cerebral cortex contains diverse classes of interneurons that selectively and discriminately innervate various parts of principal cells and each other. The hypothesized “goal” of the daunting connectionist schemes of interneurons is to provide maximum functional complexity. Without inhibition and dedicated interneurons, excitatory circuits cannot accomplish anything useful. Interneurons provide autonomy and independence to neighboring principal cells but at the same time also offer useful temporal coordination. The functional diversity of principal cells is enhanced by the domain-specific actions of GABAergic interneurons, which can dynamically alter the qualities of the principal cells. The balance between excitation and inhibition is often accomplished by oscillations. Connections among interneurons, including electrical gap junctions, are especially suitable for maintaining clocking actions. Thus, the cerebral cortex is not only a complex system with complicated interactions among identical constituents but also has developed a diverse system of components.Less
In addition to principal cells, the cerebral cortex contains diverse classes of interneurons that selectively and discriminately innervate various parts of principal cells and each other. The hypothesized “goal” of the daunting connectionist schemes of interneurons is to provide maximum functional complexity. Without inhibition and dedicated interneurons, excitatory circuits cannot accomplish anything useful. Interneurons provide autonomy and independence to neighboring principal cells but at the same time also offer useful temporal coordination. The functional diversity of principal cells is enhanced by the domain-specific actions of GABAergic interneurons, which can dynamically alter the qualities of the principal cells. The balance between excitation and inhibition is often accomplished by oscillations. Connections among interneurons, including electrical gap junctions, are especially suitable for maintaining clocking actions. Thus, the cerebral cortex is not only a complex system with complicated interactions among identical constituents but also has developed a diverse system of components.
Ion Bogdan Vasi
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780199746927
- eISBN:
- 9780199827169
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199746927.003.0002
- Subject:
- Political Science, Environmental Politics
This chapter combines insight from the literature on industry creation and social movement outcomes to identify the main factors that shape the global development of the wind power industry. It ...
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This chapter combines insight from the literature on industry creation and social movement outcomes to identify the main factors that shape the global development of the wind power industry. It builds a model that illustrates the pathways through which environmental activists, organizations, and research institutes contribute to the growth of this industry. The model's fundamental assumption is that the environmental movement's influence is mediated by social context and natural resources. The chapter also tests the model using quantitative analysis. Results from regression analysis offer support for the theoretical model and are consistent with previous studies on industry emergence and social movement outcomes. These results advance research on industry creation and social movement outcomes by showing that the effect of the variable that measures the strength of environmental organizations is mediated by the natural resources and social context variables. The findings are also consistent with the argument advanced by many energy analysts—that renewable energy feed‐in tariffs (FITs) are essential for the rapid growth of the industry. Taken together, results from the quantitative analysis show that the wind energy industry grows faster in countries that have strong environmental organizations, as well as high‐quality wind and pro‐environment political allies aligned with environmental organizations.Less
This chapter combines insight from the literature on industry creation and social movement outcomes to identify the main factors that shape the global development of the wind power industry. It builds a model that illustrates the pathways through which environmental activists, organizations, and research institutes contribute to the growth of this industry. The model's fundamental assumption is that the environmental movement's influence is mediated by social context and natural resources. The chapter also tests the model using quantitative analysis. Results from regression analysis offer support for the theoretical model and are consistent with previous studies on industry emergence and social movement outcomes. These results advance research on industry creation and social movement outcomes by showing that the effect of the variable that measures the strength of environmental organizations is mediated by the natural resources and social context variables. The findings are also consistent with the argument advanced by many energy analysts—that renewable energy feed‐in tariffs (FITs) are essential for the rapid growth of the industry. Taken together, results from the quantitative analysis show that the wind energy industry grows faster in countries that have strong environmental organizations, as well as high‐quality wind and pro‐environment political allies aligned with environmental organizations.
Ion Bogdan Vasi
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780199746927
- eISBN:
- 9780199827169
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199746927.003.0003
- Subject:
- Political Science, Environmental Politics
This chapter examines the way in which environmental groups and activists shape the energy policymaking processes. Based on case studies of countries that adopted early and strong feed‐in tariff ...
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This chapter examines the way in which environmental groups and activists shape the energy policymaking processes. Based on case studies of countries that adopted early and strong feed‐in tariff (FIT) policies—Germany, Denmark, and Spain—it shows that the environmental movement contributes to both the adoption and implementation of those policies through campaigns against nuclear power, air pollution, and global climate change. The chapter also shows that environmental groups' ability to influence the adoption of pro–renewable energy policies depends on their ability to mobilize large green‐energy advocacy coalitions, to take advantage of favorable political contexts and an unbiased mass media, and to instill positive public opinion. Environmental groups vigorously defended the implementation of feed‐in tariffs whenever they were threatened by the fossil‐fuel, nuclear power, or utility lobbies. Environmental groups fighting for strong policies have been successful, particularly when they could build large pro–renewable energy coalitions with unions, farmers, and civic associations; when they had allies among political elites; and when mass media's coverage of environmental issues was favorable and public opinion was positive.Less
This chapter examines the way in which environmental groups and activists shape the energy policymaking processes. Based on case studies of countries that adopted early and strong feed‐in tariff (FIT) policies—Germany, Denmark, and Spain—it shows that the environmental movement contributes to both the adoption and implementation of those policies through campaigns against nuclear power, air pollution, and global climate change. The chapter also shows that environmental groups' ability to influence the adoption of pro–renewable energy policies depends on their ability to mobilize large green‐energy advocacy coalitions, to take advantage of favorable political contexts and an unbiased mass media, and to instill positive public opinion. Environmental groups vigorously defended the implementation of feed‐in tariffs whenever they were threatened by the fossil‐fuel, nuclear power, or utility lobbies. Environmental groups fighting for strong policies have been successful, particularly when they could build large pro–renewable energy coalitions with unions, farmers, and civic associations; when they had allies among political elites; and when mass media's coverage of environmental issues was favorable and public opinion was positive.
Roger P. Harris, Lawrence J. Buckley, Robert G. Campbell, Sanae Chiba, Daniel P. Costa, Tommy D. Dickey, Xabier Irigoien, Thomas Kiørboe, Christian Möllmann, Mark D. Ohman, Jeffrey A. Runge, Enric Saiz, and Peter H. Wiebe
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199558025
- eISBN:
- 9780191721939
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199558025.003.0006
- Subject:
- Biology, Biodiversity / Conservation Biology, Aquatic Biology
Advances in sampling and observation are described including new optical and acoustical systems together with animal tagging and telemetry. Shipboard, laboratory, and in situ studies of zooplankton ...
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Advances in sampling and observation are described including new optical and acoustical systems together with animal tagging and telemetry. Shipboard, laboratory, and in situ studies of zooplankton feeding, reproduction and development, zooplankton and larval fish growth, and zooplankton mortality are reviewed. The relation between individual zooplankton behaviours, such as feeding, predator escape and mate‐finding, are considered in relation to population processes. Methods of retrospective data analysis applied in retrospective studies on past ecosystem states are described. Finally, potential future directions for marine ecosystem research using observational and experimental approaches are discussed.Less
Advances in sampling and observation are described including new optical and acoustical systems together with animal tagging and telemetry. Shipboard, laboratory, and in situ studies of zooplankton feeding, reproduction and development, zooplankton and larval fish growth, and zooplankton mortality are reviewed. The relation between individual zooplankton behaviours, such as feeding, predator escape and mate‐finding, are considered in relation to population processes. Methods of retrospective data analysis applied in retrospective studies on past ecosystem states are described. Finally, potential future directions for marine ecosystem research using observational and experimental approaches are discussed.
Coleen L. Moloney, Astrid Jarre, Shingo Kimura, David L. Mackas, Olivier Maury, Eugene J. Murphy, William T. Peterson, Jeffrey A. Runge, and Kazuaki Tadokoro
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199558025
- eISBN:
- 9780191721939
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199558025.003.0007
- Subject:
- Biology, Biodiversity / Conservation Biology, Aquatic Biology
GLOBEC studies focused on biological—physical interactions of target species in different study regions, emphasizing responses of organisms to varying physical forces. Population‐level processes were ...
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GLOBEC studies focused on biological—physical interactions of target species in different study regions, emphasizing responses of organisms to varying physical forces. Population‐level processes were shown to be important, with ecological responses often being ecosystem‐specific. The timing of biological events (e.g. spring bloom, entry/exit from diapause, and fish spawning) is susceptible to environmental change. Many species can adapt their feeding modes and diets, but changes in mortality imposed by heavy fishing can disrupt biological systems, making them increasingly vulnerable to perturbations. Some organisms can move away from unfavourable conditions, changing the vertical and horizontal linkages between disparate ecosystems with unknown consequences. Trophic controls in food webs vary over time and space and food web structures also change, both over the short term and through shifts in regimes, sometimes irreversibly. There is an ongoing requirement to integrate ecological processes, from biogeochemistry to top predators, to understand potential consequences of global change.Less
GLOBEC studies focused on biological—physical interactions of target species in different study regions, emphasizing responses of organisms to varying physical forces. Population‐level processes were shown to be important, with ecological responses often being ecosystem‐specific. The timing of biological events (e.g. spring bloom, entry/exit from diapause, and fish spawning) is susceptible to environmental change. Many species can adapt their feeding modes and diets, but changes in mortality imposed by heavy fishing can disrupt biological systems, making them increasingly vulnerable to perturbations. Some organisms can move away from unfavourable conditions, changing the vertical and horizontal linkages between disparate ecosystems with unknown consequences. Trophic controls in food webs vary over time and space and food web structures also change, both over the short term and through shifts in regimes, sometimes irreversibly. There is an ongoing requirement to integrate ecological processes, from biogeochemistry to top predators, to understand potential consequences of global change.
Ernest H. Williams
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195179293
- eISBN:
- 9780199790470
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195179293.003.0006
- Subject:
- Biology, Natural History and Field Guides
Because of birds' colorful beauty, song, abundance, and flight, millions of people enjoy bird watching (birding). Since people usually first notice the size, color, and shape of a bird, this chapter ...
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Because of birds' colorful beauty, song, abundance, and flight, millions of people enjoy bird watching (birding). Since people usually first notice the size, color, and shape of a bird, this chapter begins with patterns in their bills, wings, and tails. But people are also curious about bird behavior — vocalizations, flight patterns, nesting activities, and feeding behavior — so behavior is the focus of most of these descriptions, including the dawn chorus, timing of migration, and concealment of seeds for later feeding. Understanding these behaviors increases the enjoyment of bird observation, whether the behavior applies to all birds or only to special cases.Less
Because of birds' colorful beauty, song, abundance, and flight, millions of people enjoy bird watching (birding). Since people usually first notice the size, color, and shape of a bird, this chapter begins with patterns in their bills, wings, and tails. But people are also curious about bird behavior — vocalizations, flight patterns, nesting activities, and feeding behavior — so behavior is the focus of most of these descriptions, including the dawn chorus, timing of migration, and concealment of seeds for later feeding. Understanding these behaviors increases the enjoyment of bird observation, whether the behavior applies to all birds or only to special cases.
Stephen J. Simpson and David Raubenheimer
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691145655
- eISBN:
- 9781400842803
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691145655.003.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
This introductory chapter expands on three important themes that form the backdrop of this book's study: nutrition touches and links all living things; nutrition is complex; and there have been ...
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This introductory chapter expands on three important themes that form the backdrop of this book's study: nutrition touches and links all living things; nutrition is complex; and there have been benefits both from the highly specific and detailed approach of applied nutritional sciences and the simplified, general approaches adopted in the ecological sciences. At the most conspicuous level, nutrition is a primary factor defining the geographic distribution and temporal pattern of activity for many animals. Achieving nutritional homeostasis involves a complex interplay between multiple and changing nutrient needs and variable foods. The detailed studies of human and animal nutritionists have yielded a wealth of information for deriving dietary recommendations for human health, formulating animal feeds, designing dietary regimes for captive animals, supplementing the nutrition of free-ranging animals—and many other important practical applications.Less
This introductory chapter expands on three important themes that form the backdrop of this book's study: nutrition touches and links all living things; nutrition is complex; and there have been benefits both from the highly specific and detailed approach of applied nutritional sciences and the simplified, general approaches adopted in the ecological sciences. At the most conspicuous level, nutrition is a primary factor defining the geographic distribution and temporal pattern of activity for many animals. Achieving nutritional homeostasis involves a complex interplay between multiple and changing nutrient needs and variable foods. The detailed studies of human and animal nutritionists have yielded a wealth of information for deriving dietary recommendations for human health, formulating animal feeds, designing dietary regimes for captive animals, supplementing the nutrition of free-ranging animals—and many other important practical applications.
Stephen J. Simpson and David Raubenheimer
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691145655
- eISBN:
- 9781400842803
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691145655.003.0003
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
This chapter focuses on how animals are able to regulate their intake and use of multiple nutrients. To regulate the balance of nutrients eaten, an animal needs to assess the composition of available ...
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This chapter focuses on how animals are able to regulate their intake and use of multiple nutrients. To regulate the balance of nutrients eaten, an animal needs to assess the composition of available foods in relation to its nutritional requirements. Integration of information about food composition and nutritional state occurs both at the periphery, by nutrient-specific modulation of taste receptors, and more centrally as signals from systemic and peripheral sources converge onto the neural circuits that control feeding behavior. Meanwhile, postingestive regulatory responses can assist in rebalancing an imbalanced nutrient intake. Once digested and absorbed across the gut, nutrient supplies can be further rebalanced by differentially voiding excess nutrients and conserving nutrients that are in limited supply.Less
This chapter focuses on how animals are able to regulate their intake and use of multiple nutrients. To regulate the balance of nutrients eaten, an animal needs to assess the composition of available foods in relation to its nutritional requirements. Integration of information about food composition and nutritional state occurs both at the periphery, by nutrient-specific modulation of taste receptors, and more centrally as signals from systemic and peripheral sources converge onto the neural circuits that control feeding behavior. Meanwhile, postingestive regulatory responses can assist in rebalancing an imbalanced nutrient intake. Once digested and absorbed across the gut, nutrient supplies can be further rebalanced by differentially voiding excess nutrients and conserving nutrients that are in limited supply.
Brian A. Baldo and Matthew E. Andrzejewski
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195373035
- eISBN:
- 9780199865543
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195373035.003.0021
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems, History of Neuroscience
This chapter focuses on how advances in the study of striatal anatomy and physiology have informed our appreciation of dopamine's role in appetitive motivation, with an emphasis on studies of feeding ...
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This chapter focuses on how advances in the study of striatal anatomy and physiology have informed our appreciation of dopamine's role in appetitive motivation, with an emphasis on studies of feeding behavior, food-reinforced operant behavior, and striatal gene expression, under different motivational conditions. It outlines the position that striatal dopamine plays a dual role in augmenting the various types of motor output associated with appetitively motivated behavior, by modulating information flow through functionally differentiable corticostriatal circuits, and in selecting/strengthening reinforced behavior by regulating intracellular plasticity within a corticostriatal network. Evidence indicates that while these functions are expressed throughout the striatum, the behavioral domains that are affected depend upon the unique information-processing roles of anatomically distinct striatal territories. Finally, the chapter discusses the additional layer of complexity conferred by the heterogeneous functions of discrete neurochemical systems within a given striatal territory.Less
This chapter focuses on how advances in the study of striatal anatomy and physiology have informed our appreciation of dopamine's role in appetitive motivation, with an emphasis on studies of feeding behavior, food-reinforced operant behavior, and striatal gene expression, under different motivational conditions. It outlines the position that striatal dopamine plays a dual role in augmenting the various types of motor output associated with appetitively motivated behavior, by modulating information flow through functionally differentiable corticostriatal circuits, and in selecting/strengthening reinforced behavior by regulating intracellular plasticity within a corticostriatal network. Evidence indicates that while these functions are expressed throughout the striatum, the behavioral domains that are affected depend upon the unique information-processing roles of anatomically distinct striatal territories. Finally, the chapter discusses the additional layer of complexity conferred by the heterogeneous functions of discrete neurochemical systems within a given striatal territory.
Anne-Lise Christensen and George P. Prigatano
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195176704
- eISBN:
- 9780199864706
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195176704.003.0010
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, History of Neuroscience
The Lurian approach to the bedside neuropsychological examination: Historical context, reflections, and clinical observations within European countries. Due to the development of basic neurosurgical ...
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The Lurian approach to the bedside neuropsychological examination: Historical context, reflections, and clinical observations within European countries. Due to the development of basic neurosurgical techniques for operations on the brain, neurosurgery became a new and autonomous surgical discipline of special importance during World War 1. However, it was not until the 1970ies a bedside examination, focusing on Luria's methodology, performed at a very early state in the neurosurgical department at Aarhus University, proved its value in line with Luria's general attitude to the conflict between explanatory, physiologic psychology and the descriptive, phenomenological psychology. A neuropsychologist as part of the clinical team makes it possible to start evaluation earlier and makes it possible to perform the evaluation little by little, during the states of decline or progress and already at this state by way of support and feedback initiate a rehabilitation process. An American modification of Luria's approach to the bedside neuropsychological examination is described. The development of the Barrow Neurological Institute Screen for Higher Cerebral Functions (BNIS) was developed in part on the basis of Lurian concepts. This section of the chapter describes the test and how the test can be used for clinical and research purposes. It emphasizes the importance of obtaining both qualitative and quantitative information in the assessment of higher cerebral functions. It also emphasizes the importance of assessing cognitive and affective functioning in a brief, but reliable way.Less
The Lurian approach to the bedside neuropsychological examination: Historical context, reflections, and clinical observations within European countries. Due to the development of basic neurosurgical techniques for operations on the brain, neurosurgery became a new and autonomous surgical discipline of special importance during World War 1. However, it was not until the 1970ies a bedside examination, focusing on Luria's methodology, performed at a very early state in the neurosurgical department at Aarhus University, proved its value in line with Luria's general attitude to the conflict between explanatory, physiologic psychology and the descriptive, phenomenological psychology. A neuropsychologist as part of the clinical team makes it possible to start evaluation earlier and makes it possible to perform the evaluation little by little, during the states of decline or progress and already at this state by way of support and feedback initiate a rehabilitation process. An American modification of Luria's approach to the bedside neuropsychological examination is described. The development of the Barrow Neurological Institute Screen for Higher Cerebral Functions (BNIS) was developed in part on the basis of Lurian concepts. This section of the chapter describes the test and how the test can be used for clinical and research purposes. It emphasizes the importance of obtaining both qualitative and quantitative information in the assessment of higher cerebral functions. It also emphasizes the importance of assessing cognitive and affective functioning in a brief, but reliable way.
Pat Willmer
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691128610
- eISBN:
- 9781400838943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691128610.003.0013
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter focuses on pollination by flies, a very diverse group of insects of the order Diptera. Many types of fly have the ability to regurgitate saliva onto potential foodstuffs, making the ...
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This chapter focuses on pollination by flies, a very diverse group of insects of the order Diptera. Many types of fly have the ability to regurgitate saliva onto potential foodstuffs, making the material more liquid and manageable, and some use “bubbling” behavior to speed evaporation of excessively dilute fluids. Many groups have a strong preference for sugary fluids, and therefore commonly take some nectar as part of their adult diet; others feed on pollen. The chapter first provides an overview of the fly’s feeding apparatus as well as its sensory and behavioral capacities before discussing generalist flowers that are favored by a multitude of flies. It then considers specialist flower types that attract nectar-feeding flies, hoverfly flower types, and carrion-fly flower types. It concludes with an analysis of some other specialist cases of fly pollination of flowers.Less
This chapter focuses on pollination by flies, a very diverse group of insects of the order Diptera. Many types of fly have the ability to regurgitate saliva onto potential foodstuffs, making the material more liquid and manageable, and some use “bubbling” behavior to speed evaporation of excessively dilute fluids. Many groups have a strong preference for sugary fluids, and therefore commonly take some nectar as part of their adult diet; others feed on pollen. The chapter first provides an overview of the fly’s feeding apparatus as well as its sensory and behavioral capacities before discussing generalist flowers that are favored by a multitude of flies. It then considers specialist flower types that attract nectar-feeding flies, hoverfly flower types, and carrion-fly flower types. It concludes with an analysis of some other specialist cases of fly pollination of flowers.
Pat Willmer
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691128610
- eISBN:
- 9781400838943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691128610.003.0014
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter focuses on pollination by butterflies and moths, which belong to the order Lepidoptera. Lepidopterans are split into four suborders, but all the flower visitors occur in about sixteen ...
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This chapter focuses on pollination by butterflies and moths, which belong to the order Lepidoptera. Lepidopterans are split into four suborders, but all the flower visitors occur in about sixteen families within the largest of these, Ditrysia. Ditrysia incorporates many superfamilies, mostly consisting of large moths and yet more micromoths, but two contain the evolutionarily more recent butterflies. The chapter first provides an overview of the feeding apparatus of moths and butterflies before discussing their sensory and behavioral capacities. It then considers the butterfly flower syndrome known as psychophily and the general moth syndrome termed phalaenophily, along with sphingophily involving hawkmoth flowers. It suggests that butterflies and moths are reasonably effective as flower pollinators, with some more specialist and probably more effective examples among the larger and partially endothermic sphingid species.Less
This chapter focuses on pollination by butterflies and moths, which belong to the order Lepidoptera. Lepidopterans are split into four suborders, but all the flower visitors occur in about sixteen families within the largest of these, Ditrysia. Ditrysia incorporates many superfamilies, mostly consisting of large moths and yet more micromoths, but two contain the evolutionarily more recent butterflies. The chapter first provides an overview of the feeding apparatus of moths and butterflies before discussing their sensory and behavioral capacities. It then considers the butterfly flower syndrome known as psychophily and the general moth syndrome termed phalaenophily, along with sphingophily involving hawkmoth flowers. It suggests that butterflies and moths are reasonably effective as flower pollinators, with some more specialist and probably more effective examples among the larger and partially endothermic sphingid species.
Pat Willmer
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691128610
- eISBN:
- 9781400838943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691128610.003.0015
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter focuses on pollination by birds. Bird pollination, or ornithophily, is a widespread phenomenon. Many common birds visit flowers by biting through or piercing their corollas, notably tits ...
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This chapter focuses on pollination by birds. Bird pollination, or ornithophily, is a widespread phenomenon. Many common birds visit flowers by biting through or piercing their corollas, notably tits and warblers. Birds primarily take nectar from flowers, although some may also eat pollen and occasionally take solid floral tissues. The chapter first provides an overview of the bird’s feeding apparatus, sensory capacity, and behavior and learning capabilities before discussing various types of flowers that are pollinated by birds such as hummingbirds and perching birds. The foraging behaviors of these birds are also considered, along with the ornithophilous syndrome. The chapter concludes with some observations on why extreme specialization is precluded in ornithophilous relationships.Less
This chapter focuses on pollination by birds. Bird pollination, or ornithophily, is a widespread phenomenon. Many common birds visit flowers by biting through or piercing their corollas, notably tits and warblers. Birds primarily take nectar from flowers, although some may also eat pollen and occasionally take solid floral tissues. The chapter first provides an overview of the bird’s feeding apparatus, sensory capacity, and behavior and learning capabilities before discussing various types of flowers that are pollinated by birds such as hummingbirds and perching birds. The foraging behaviors of these birds are also considered, along with the ornithophilous syndrome. The chapter concludes with some observations on why extreme specialization is precluded in ornithophilous relationships.
Pat Willmer
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691128610
- eISBN:
- 9781400838943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691128610.003.0016
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter focuses on pollination by bats, or chiropterophily. Bats are classified as two distinct and separately evolved orders, Megachiroptera and Microchiroptera. They are primarily nocturnal, ...
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This chapter focuses on pollination by bats, or chiropterophily. Bats are classified as two distinct and separately evolved orders, Megachiroptera and Microchiroptera. They are primarily nocturnal, and as flying endothermic mammals have extremely high energy demands. Furthermore, their flower visits often require hovering for short periods; this increases their energy demand further, albeit not by much. However, having rather large body masses, in practice the bat species that visit blossoms for a major part of their diet are linked with some unusual and very high-reward flowers. The chapter first provides an overview of the bat’s feeding apparatus, sensory capacities such as olfaction, and foraging behavior and learning before discussing different types of bat-pollinated flowers.Less
This chapter focuses on pollination by bats, or chiropterophily. Bats are classified as two distinct and separately evolved orders, Megachiroptera and Microchiroptera. They are primarily nocturnal, and as flying endothermic mammals have extremely high energy demands. Furthermore, their flower visits often require hovering for short periods; this increases their energy demand further, albeit not by much. However, having rather large body masses, in practice the bat species that visit blossoms for a major part of their diet are linked with some unusual and very high-reward flowers. The chapter first provides an overview of the bat’s feeding apparatus, sensory capacities such as olfaction, and foraging behavior and learning before discussing different types of bat-pollinated flowers.
