A social network analysis of social cohesion in a constructed pride: Implications for ex situ reintroduction of the African Lion (Panthera leo)

Animal conservation practices include the grouping of captive related and unrelated individuals to form a social structure which is characteristic of that species in the wild. In response to the rapid decline of wild African lion (Panthera leo) populations, an array of conservational strategies have been adopted. Ex situ reintroduction of the African lion requires the construction of socially cohesive pride structures prior to wild release. This pilot study adopted a social network theory approach to quantitatively assess a captive pride's social structure and the relationships between individuals within them. Group composition (who is present in a group) and social interaction data (social licking, greeting, play) was observed and recorded to assess social cohesion within a released semi-wild pride. UCINET and SOCPROG software was utilised to represent and analyse these social networks. Results indicate that the pride is socially cohesive, does not exhibit random associations, and the role of socially influential keystone individuals is important for maintaining social bondedness within a lion pride. These results are potentially informative for the structure of lion prides, in captivity and in the wild, and could have implications for captive and wild-founder reintroductions

Comparison of direct radionuclide cystography and voiding direct cystography in the detection of vesicoureteral reflux

PubMedID: 14651353Purpose: The aim of this study is to compare the results of direct radionuclide cystography (DRNC) and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) in a group of children with a high suspicion of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Methods: For this purpose, 25 children were studied with both VCUG and DRNC. Among 50 ureter units able to be compared 39 ureter units did not show any VUR on either study. Eleven ureter units (10 children) had VUR either on one study or on both (VCUG and DRNC). In the children who had VUR on either study, a dimercaptosuccinic acid scintigraphy (DMSA) was performed to determine their cortical function. Results: We identified the following four patterns: 1) Five ureter units (five children) read positive on DRNC who were negative on VCUG and four of these children had positive findings on DMSA; 2) Four ureter units (four children) read positive on VCUG who were negative on DRNC, and two of them had positive findings on DMSA; 3) Two ureters (one child) read positive in both studies and also had abnormal DMSA findings; 4) Thirty-nine ureter units read as negative on both studies. Conclusion: Although the results of these two methods did not show a significant difference, DRNC offers a high sensitivity in the younger age group whereas VCUG seems to be more sensitive in the older age group. DRNC also offers continuous recording during the study, ease of assessment and lower radiation dose to the gonads, which makes it a preferable method for the initial diagnosis and follow-up of VUR

Positive Psychology and Suicide Prevention: an Introduction and Overview of the Literature

Book Summary: This inspiring resource presents theories, findings, and interventions from Positive Suicidology, an emerging strengths-based approach to suicide prevention. Its synthesis of positive psychology and suicidology theories offers a science-based framework for promoting wellbeing to complement or, if appropriate, replace traditional deficit-driven theories and therapies used in reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Coverage reviews interpersonal, intrapersonal, and societal risk factors for suicide, and identifies protective factors, such as hope and resilience, that can be enhanced in therapy. From there, chapters detail a palette of approaches and applications of Positive Suicidology, from the powerful motivating forces described in Self-Determination Theory to meaning-building physical and social activities. Among the topics covered: Future-oriented constructs and their role in suicidal ideation and enactment. Gratitude as a protective factor for suicidal ideation and behavior: theory and evidence. Considering race and ethnicity in the use of positive psychological approaches to suicide. The Six R’s framework as mindfulness for suicide prevention. Community-based participatory research and empowerment for suicide prevention. Applied resiliency and suicide prevention: a strengths-based, risk-reduction framework. Psychotherapists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, and health psychologists, as well as educators, clergy and healthcare professionals, will find A Positive Psychological Approach to Suicide an invaluable source of contemporary evidence-based strategies for their prevention and intervention efforts with suicidal clients