ABSTRACT
River otters (Lontra canadensis) were extirpated from much of their historic distribution because of exposure to pollution and urbanization, resulting in expansive reintroduction programmes that continue today for this and other species of otters worldwide. Bioaccumulation of toxins negatively affects fecundity among mustelids, but high vagility and different dispersal distances between genders may permit otter populations to recover from extirpation caused by localized environmental pollution. Without understanding the influence of factors such as social structure and sex-biased dispersal on genetic variation and gene flow among populations, effects of local extirpation and the potential for natural recolonization (i.e. the need for translocations) cannot be assessed. We studied gene flow among seven study areas for river otters (n = 110 otters) inhabiting marine environments in Prince William Sound, Alaska, USA. Using nine DNA microsatellite markers and assignment tests, we calculated immigration rates and dispersal distances and tested for isolation by distance. In addition, we radiotracked 55 individuals in three areas to determine characteristics of dispersal. Gender differences in sociality and spatial relationships resulted in different dispersal distances. Male river otters had greater gene flow among close populations (within 16-30 km) mostly via breeding dispersal, but both genders exhibited an equal, low probability of natal dispersal; and some females dispersed 60-90 km. These data, obtained in a coastal environment without anthropogenic barriers to dispersal (e.g. habitat fragmentation or urbanization), may serve as baseline data for predicting dispersal under optimal conditions. Our data may indicate that natural recolonization of coastal river otters following local extirpation could be a slow process because of low dispersal among females, and recolonization may be substantially delayed unless viable populations occurred nearby. Because of significant isolation by distance for male otters and low gene flow for females, translocations should be undertaken with caution to help preserve genetic diversity in this species.
Subject(s)
Genetics, Population , Otters/genetics , Population Dynamics , Alaska , Animals , Ecosystem , Female , Gene Frequency , Male , Microsatellite Repeats , Otters/physiology , Sex CharacteristicsABSTRACT
In this research we examine self-reported social network transactions of former psychiatric inpatients residing in different types of housing in the community. Unlike earlier research, we found considerable reciprocity in network transactions with family and friends. Only professionals provided more support than they received from patients. Providing emotional support to others was positively correlated with positive affect, community integration, and mastery. Respondents reported more supportive than unsupportive transactions with network members and more supportive transactions with friends than with family or professionals. Finally, residents of supportive apartments and group homes provided and received support more frequently than residents of board-and-care homes. We discuss the results in terms of their implications for policy and future research.
Subject(s)
Deinstitutionalization , Interpersonal Relations , Mental Disorders/psychology , Social Support , Adaptation, Psychological , Adult , Affect , Aged , Female , Group Homes , Halfway Houses , Health Policy , Health Services Research , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Ontario , Sex Factors , Surveys and QuestionnairesABSTRACT
To assess the ethical nature of research relationships between investigators and gay and lesbian participants we reviewed 351 reports on homosexuality in three major and 75 miscellaneous journals from 1974 to 1988. We found that authors rarely involved participants beyond the role of providing data, generally did not report conditions of consent, rarely reported feedback, and almost never indicated using data to promote social action. In addition, authors typically relied on the term "subjects" and on a depersonalized, decontextualized writing style. There were some differences among journals, over time, and among authors' disciplines. Male authors tended to study men exclusively, whereas female authors' relation to participants' gender was more varied. Believing that research with gay men and lesbian women should not detract from their emancipation, we offer some recommendations for research practice and report-writing which are designed to better protect research participants and to produce more valid knowledge.
Subject(s)
Ethics, Professional , Homosexuality/psychology , Periodicals as Topic , Research , Sexual Behavior , Adult , Female , Humans , Informed Consent , Male , Prejudice , Research Design , Social ValuesABSTRACT
Described is a drama prevention program in a rural Grade 6-8 junior high school, designed to facilitate incoming students' transition to their new school environment by developing social skills. Extensive pilot work with a social skills curriculum based on creative drama in small groups suggested that it could be successful in strengthening peer relations. A subsequent intervention demonstrated positive findings according to student and teacher interviews, student and parent satisfaction measures, and comparison data from teacher and parent ratings. School staff implemented the curriculum independently in following years but with some modifications. The results indicate that creative drama groups have some usefulness for individual-centered primary prevention.
