ORCID Profile
0000-0002-8245-7332
Current Organisations
University of Queensland
,
Colorado State University
,
Integrated Marine Observing System
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Publications
Acoustic telemetry and fisheries management
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-05-2017
DOI: 10.1002/EAP.1533
Abstract: This paper reviews the use of acoustic telemetry as a tool for addressing issues in fisheries management, and serves as the lead to the special Feature Issue of Ecological Applications titled Acoustic Telemetry and Fisheries Management. Specifically, we provide an overview of the ways in which acoustic telemetry can be used to inform issues central to the ecology, conservation, and management of exploited and/or imperiled fish species. Despite great strides in this area in recent years, there are comparatively few ex les where data have been applied directly to influence fisheries management and policy. We review the literature on this issue, identify the strengths and weaknesses of work done to date, and highlight knowledge gaps and difficulties in applying empirical fish telemetry studies to fisheries policy and practice. We then highlight the key areas of management and policy addressed, as well as the challenges that needed to be overcome to do this. We conclude with a set of recommendations about how researchers can, in consultation with stock assessment scientists and managers, formulate testable scientific questions to address and design future studies to generate data that can be used in a meaningful way by fisheries management and conservation practitioners. We also urge the involvement of relevant stakeholders (managers, fishers, conservation societies, etc.) early on in the process (i.e., in the co-creation of research projects), so that all priority questions and issues can be addressed effectively.
Movement patterns and water quality preferences of juvenile bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) in a Florida estuary
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-02-2009
Making connections in aquatic ecosystems with acoustic telemetry monitoring
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1890/130283
Temporal and spatial activity‐associated energy partitioning in free‐swimming sea snakes
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-05-2017
The role of stress reactivity and pre-injury psychosocial vulnerability to psychological and physical health immediately after traumatic injury
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2021
Diet-tissue discrimination factors and turnover of carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in tissues of an adult predatory coral reef fish, Plectropomus leopardus
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-12-2016
DOI: 10.1002/RCM.7406
Abstract: Stable isotope ratios (δ(13)C and δ(15)N values) provide a unique perspective into the ecology of animals because the isotope ratio values of consumers reflect the values in food. Despite the value of stable isotopes in ecological studies, the lack of species-specific experimentally derived diet-tissue discrimination factors (DTDFs) and turnover rates limits their application at a broad scale. Furthermore, most aquatic feeding experiments use temperate, fast-growing fish species and few have considered medium- to large-sized adults with low growth rates from tropical ecosystems. A controlled-diet stable isotope feeding trial was conducted over a 196-day period for the adult predatory reef fish leopard coralgrouper (Plectropomus leopardus). This study calculated δ(13)C and δ(15)N DTDFs and turnover rates in five tissues (liver, plasma, red blood cells (RBC), fin, and muscle) using a continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer equipped with an elemental analyzer. In addition, the effect of chemical lipid extraction (LE) on stable isotope values was examined for each tissue. Turnover was mainly influenced by metabolism (as opposed to growth) with LE δ(15)N half-life values lowest in fin (37 days) and plasma (66 days), and highest in RBC (88 days) and muscle (126 days). The diet-tissue discrimination factors for δ(15)N values in all tissues (Δ(15)N: -0.15 to 1.84‰) were typically lower than commonly reported literature values. Lipid extraction altered both δ(15) N and δ(13)C values compared with untreated s les however, for the δ(15)N values, the differences were small (mean δ(15)N(LE-Bulk) <0.46‰ in all tissues). This study informs future interpretation of stable isotope data for medium- to large-sized fish and demonstrates that DTDFs developed for temperate fish species, particularly for δ(15)N values, may not apply to tropical species. S ling of muscle and/or RBC is recommended for a relatively long-term representation of feeding habits, while plasma and/or fin should be used for a more recent indication of diet.
A myxosporean parasite (Myxosporea: Multivalvulida) in the skeletal muscle of epaulette sharks, Hemiscyllium ocellatum (Bonnaterre), from the Great Barrier Reef
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-1996
Twelve-month health outcomes for bicyclists and car occupants after a non-catastrophic traffic crash injury
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Infection of the epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum (Bonnaterre), by the nematode parasite Proleptus australis Bayliss (Spirurida: Physalopteridae)
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-1998
Diversity of behavioural patterns displayed by a summer feeding aggregation of Atlantic sturgeon in the intertidal region of Minas Basin, Bay of Fundy, Canada
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 27-01-2014
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS10555
A review of detection range testing in aquatic passive acoustic telemetry studies
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-10-2013
Reef sharks and inshore habitats: Patterns of occurrence and implications for vulnerability
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 24-07-2012
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS09722
The importance of research and public opinion to conservation management of sharks and rays: a synthesis
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1071/MF11086
Abstract: Growing concern for the world’s shark and ray populations is driving the need for greater research to inform conservation management. A change in public perception, from one that we need to protect humans from sharks to one where we must protect sharks from humans, has added to calls for better management. The present paper examines the growing need for research for conservation management of sharks and rays by synthesising information presented in this Special Issue from the 2010 Sharks International Conference and by identifying future research needs, including topics such as taxonomy, life history, population status, spatial ecology, environmental effects, ecosystem role and human impacts. However, this biological and ecological research agenda will not be sufficient to fully secure conservation management. There is also a need for research to inform social and economic sustainability. Effective conservation management will be achieved by setting clear priorities for research with the aid of stakeholders, implementing well designed research projects, building the capacity for research, and clearly communicating the results to stakeholders. If this can be achieved, it will assure a future for this iconic group, the ecosystems in which they occur and the human communities that rely on them.
Evidence of Partial Migration in a Large Coastal Predator: Opportunistic Foraging and Reproduction as Key Drivers?
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 03-02-2016
Depth and space use of leopard coralgrouper Plectropomus leopardus using passive acoustic tracking
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 17-02-2015
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS11122
Conservation challenges of sharks with continental scale migrations
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 24-02-2015
Habitat use and spatial segregation of adult spottail sharks Carcharhinus sorrah in tropical nearshore waters
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-03-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1095-8649.2012.03223.X
Abstract: An array of acoustic receivers deployed in Cleveland Bay, north Queensland, Australia, passively tracked 20 adult spottail sharks Carcharhinus sorrah over 2 years (2009-2010) to define patterns in movement and habitat use. In iduals were present in the study site for long periods, ranging from 8 to 408 days (mean = 185). Size and location of home ranges did not vary over time. A high level of segregation occurred among C. sorrah, with in iduals using different types of habitat and showing strong attachment to specific regions. The depth of habitat in iduals used varied between sexes. Males tended to use a narrow range of habitat depths within the study site (2·8-6·0 m), whereas females used shallower habitats (1·4-6·2 m) and displayed a seasonal shift in the depth of habitat used. Mean monthly habitat depth used varied by as much as 2 m for females, with in iduals using shallower habitats during the winter months. Long-term presence and consistent home ranges suggest that Cleveland Bay provides important habitat for C. sorrah. By defining patterns in the use of nearshore habitats for C. sorrah, this study improves the understanding of the movement and habitat use of smaller-bodied coastal sharks and may help provide guidance for the management of their populations.
Observations on the diet and feeding habits of the epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum (Bonnaterre), on Heron Island Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 1998
DOI: 10.1071/MF97026
Abstract: The diet and feeding habits of the epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum, were investigated through stomach content analysis. Five groups of prey items were found. The index of relative importance showed worms and crabs to be of greatest value at 51.3% and 40.1% respectively. The three minor prey groups were shrimps (7.7%), small fishes (0.7%) and hipods (0.3%). Epaulette sharks tend to be crepuscular, although feeding bouts may occur at any time. They appear to be opportunistic predators, using olfaction and electroreception in prey capture. This species appears to be an important benthic predator in the reef flat environment on Heron Island Reef.
Challenges in the acute identification of mild traumatic brain injuries: results from an emergency department surveillance study
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2019-034494
Abstract: To establish the proportion of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) diagnosis among people presenting to an emergency department (ED), to determine the accuracy of recorded ED diagnoses. We also aimed to describe challenges in mTBI case identification and its acute hospital management. A retrospective chart review of all ED attendances to a major trauma hospital, over a 9-month period (June 2015–February 2016). Adults aged 18–65 years consecutively presenting to an ED. Proportion of mTBI diagnosis among ED attendances (ie, confirmed mTBI based on the WHO criteria or indeterminate mTBI based on secondary criteria), and proportion of accurately recorded mTBI diagnosis by ED clinicians (ie, ‘mTBI’, ‘concussion’). Of 30 479 ED attendances, 351 (1.15%) confirmed mTBI diagnosis and 180 (0.6%) indeterminate diagnosis were identified. Only 81 (23.1%) in iduals with a confirmed mTBI had a ‘mTBI diagnosis’ clearly recorded in the medical notes. Of the allocated discharge diagnosis codes to the two identified cohorts, 89.8% were not indicative of mTBI. Intracranial injuries were found in 31 (8.5%) confirmed cases. Glasgow Coma Scale scores were consistently assessed in the ED but identified only 117 (33.3%) confirmed mTBI cases. Post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) testing was able to confirm acute cognitive impairment in 113 (62.1%) of those who were tested (182, 51.3%). mTBI is a common, but an under-recognised cause for ED attendance. Despite challenges, the use of an operational definition such as the WHO diagnostic criteria can improve accuracy in mTBI identification. Acute management may be enhanced by rapid assessment of PTA.
Validated age, growth and reproductive biology of Carcharhinus melanopterus, a widely distributed and exploited reef shark
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1071/MF13017
Abstract: Inadequate life-history information can compromise management of shark populations. The present study examined the life history of blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) from north-eastern Australia with predictions that they would show life-history patterns similar to those of other reef sharks species. Age and growth estimates were derived from vertebrae and five growth models. Males were 543–1390 mm total length (LST) and females were 514–1600 mm LST. Longevity was 10 years (males) and 15 years (females). Chemical marking confirmed annual band pair deposition but indicated probable age underestimation of large in iduals. The logistic model was preferred (second-order Akaike information criterion (AICc) weight 0.7536), with growth parameter estimates of length at birth (L0) = 617 mm LST asymptotic length (L∞) = 1585 mm LST k (from logistic model) = 0.251 year–1. Males matured at 4.2 years (1050 mm LST) and females at 8.5 years (1335 mm LST), although further verification is needed. Mating and parturition occurred in summer and autumn, females having three or four pups per litter. Data were inconclusive in determining reproductive periodicity. These data contribute to the species management and conservation and suggest that the species may be sensitive to fishing pressure and habitat loss. The study also demonstrated potential complications in using vertebrae to estimate age and growth of chondrichthyan fishes.
A field and video annotation guide for baited remote underwater stereo-video surveys of demersal fish assemblages
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-09-2020
Residency patterns and movements of grey reef sharks (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos) in semi-isolated coral reef habitats
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-11-2014
Plasma steroid hormone profiles and reproductive biology of the epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-1999
DOI: 10.1002/(SICI)1097-010X(19991001)284:5<586::AID-JEZ14>3.0.CO;2-B
Estimation of short-term centers of activity from an array of omnidirectional hydrophones and its use in studying animal movements
Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing
Date: 2002
DOI: 10.1139/F01-191
Abstract: A method for studying animal movements based on data from independent data-logging acoustic receivers is described. The method takes presence or absence data from multiple receivers arranged in an array and converts them to position estimates based on weighted means of the number of signal receptions at each receiver during a specified time period. The method is equivalent to a short-term center of activity rather than a precise estimate of location at a single time. The utility of the method was assessed using data from a study of neonate blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus). Periods between 5 and 60 min were tested to find the most appropriate interval for estimating positions. The results from the method agreed closely with a simulated shark track and data from actively tracked sharks. The median distances between successive locations from the mean-position algorithm were between 28% and 42% of those from active tracking because of the center-of-activity nature of the method. The results presented demonstrate that the technique provides a useful method for investigating long-term movement patterns, space utilization patterns over broader areas, and home range.
Optimising the design of large-scale acoustic telemetry curtains
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1071/MF16126
Abstract: Broad-scale acoustic telemetry networks are being established worldwide. The 10-year anniversary of the Integrated Marine Observing System’s Animal Tracking Facility provided the opportunity to assess the efficiency of one of the first national-scale acoustic telemetry networks. Acoustic networks are comprised of acoustic receiver arrays that detect high-frequency transmitters attached to animals that pass within detection range. Herein we assessed the efficiency of eight curtains to detect passing animals by calculating the standardised mean number of detections and transmitters detected at each station. The aim was to determine how many receivers could be decommissioned from each curtain while maintaining its integrity (i.e. detection of all species passing the array). Pivotal locations were defined as the furthest station at which all species would still be detected and where at least 75% of the detections and transmitters would still be detected. By applying these criteria, we were able to improve the cost-effectiveness of our network significantly, reducing the number of stations from 132 to 85 (64% of the original network), yet still retaining 84% of total detections, 86% of transmitters and 100% of detected species. The present study provides a useful framework for refining acoustic telemetry networks.
Contrasting movements and connectivity of reef-associated sharks using acoustic telemetry: implications for management
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1890/14-2293.1
Abstract: Understanding the efficacy of marine protected areas (MPAs) for wide-ranging predators is essential to designing effective management and conservation approaches. The use of acoustic monitoring and network analysis can improve our understanding of the spatial ecology and functional connectivity of reef-associated species, providing a useful approach for reef-based conservation planning. This study compared and contrasted the movement and connectivity of sharks with different degrees of reef association. We examined the residency, dispersal, degree of reef connectivity, and MPA use of grey reef (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos), silvertip (C. albimarginatus), and bull (C. leucas) sharks monitored in the central Great Barrier Reef (GBR). An array of 56 acoustic receivers was used to monitor shark movements on 17 semi-isolated reefs. Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos and C. albimarginatus were detected most days at or near their tagging reef. However, while C. amblyrhynchos spent 80% of monitoring days in the array, C. albimarginatus was only detected 50% of the time. Despite both species moving similar distances (< 50 km), a large portion of the population of C. albimarginatus (71%) was detected on multiple reefs and moved more frequently between reefs and management zones than C. amblyrhynchos. Carcharhinus leucas was detected less than 20% of the time within the tagging array, and 42% of the population undertook long-range migrations to other arrays in the GBR. Networks derived for C. leucas were larger and more complex than those for C. amblyrhynchos and C. albimarginatus. Our findings suggest that protecting specific reefs based on prior knowledge (e.g., healthier reefs with high fish biomass) and increasing the level of protection to include nearby, closely spaced reef habitats (< 20 km) may perform better for species like C. albimarginatus than having either a single or a network of isolated MPAs. This design would also provide protection for larger male C. amblyrhynchos, which tend to disperse more and use larger areas than females. For wide-ranging sharks like C. leucas, a combination of spatial planning and other alternative measures is critical. Our findings demonstrate that acoustic monitoring can serve as a useful platform for designing more effective MPA networks for reef predators displaying a range of movement patterns.
Reef-scale variability in fish and coral assemblages on the central Great Barrier Reef
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-08-2018
Genetic heterogeneity among blacktip shark, Carcharhinus limbatus , continental nurseries along the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2003
Measuring niche overlap between co-occurring Plectropomus spp. using acoustic telemetry and stable isotopes
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1071/MF16120
Abstract: Investigating niche overlap in exploited fish species can reveal behavioural information necessary to improve conservation and fisheries management at a species level. The present study examined spatial and dietary overlap between two co-occurring reef fish, namely Plectropomus leopardus and P. maculatus, at an inshore reef in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park using acoustic telemetry and stable isotopes. Movements of tagged fish within an acoustic array of 19 receivers deployed along a narrow reef portion of Orpheus Island were monitored for up to 3 years. Although space use was similar between species, spatial overlap was rare and P. maculatus (n=30) was consistently deeper than P. leopardus (n=32). Dietary overlap between species was high based on overlapping δ15N and δ13C isotopic niches in muscle tissue (n=20). The complementary stable isotope and acoustic telemetry data revealed these species had similar isotopic niches but distinct space use patterns, which may be a product of competition for resources. These findings show species-specific behaviours within a genus commonly managed or reported as a single entity, and provide new information on partitioning of resources by Plectropomus spp. in inshore reef environments.
Ecological risk assessment of pelagic sharks caught in Atlantic pelagic longline fisheries
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-10-2010
DOI: 10.1051/ALR/2009044
Exploring habitat selection in sea snakes using passive acoustic monitoring and Bayesian hierarchical models
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 21-03-2016
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS11632
Convergence of marine megafauna movement patterns in coastal and open oceans
Publisher: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Date: 26-02-2018
Abstract: Understanding the key drivers of animal movement is crucial to assist in mitigating adverse impacts of anthropogenic activities on marine megafauna. We found that movement patterns of marine megafauna are mostly independent of their evolutionary histories, differing significantly from patterns for terrestrial animals. We detected a remarkable convergence in the distribution of speed and turning angles across organisms ranging from whales to turtles (epitome for the slowest animals on land but not at sea). Marine megafauna show a prevalence of movement patterns dominated by search behavior in coastal habitats compared with more directed, ballistic movement patterns when the animals move across the open ocean. The habitats through which they move will therefore need to be considered for effective conservation.
Movement patterns of silvertip sharks (Carcharhinus albimarginatus) on coral reefs
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-05-2015
Investigating Dynamics of the Spinal Cord Injury Adjustment Model: Mediation Model Analysis
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 04-08-2022
DOI: 10.3390/JCM11154557
Abstract: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe neurological injury that results in damage to multiple bodily systems. SCI rehabilitation requires a significant focus on improving adjustment to the injury. This paper presents a detailed description of the Spinal Cord Injury Adjustment Model (SCIAM), which clarifies how in iduals adjust to SCI and contends that adjustment to SCI is a multifactorial process involving non-linear dynamic adaptation over time. Evidence supporting SCIAM is also discussed. Mediation analyses were conducted to test the mediator dynamics proposed by the model. The analyses tested the relationship between two moderators (self-care and secondary health conditions), mediators (two self-efficacy items and appraisal of quality of life or QoL), and positive versus negative vitality/mental health as outcomes. Results showed that higher self-efficacy and perceived QoL was related to greater independence in self-care and reduced negative impacts of secondary health conditions. This study supported the mediation role of self-efficacy and other appraisals such as perceived QoL in enhancing self-care and buffering the negative impact of health challenges. In conclusion, it is important to employ a holistic model such as SCIAM to conceptualise and increase understanding of the process of adjustment following a severe neurological injury such as SCI.
Estimation of mortality of juvenile blacktip sharks, Carcharhinus limbatus, within a nursery area using telemetry data
Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing
Date: 04-2002
DOI: 10.1139/F02-036
Abstract: A population of young blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus) was monitored over three years to determine their mortality rates using a series of acoustic listening stations. Based on these data it was possible to use several mortality estimators, including indirect life history based methods and direct methods such as the Kaplan-Meier and SURVIV methods, to estimate natural, fishing, and total mortality. Kaplan-Meier (6191%) and SURVIV (6292%) methods provided nearly identical total mortality rates during the first six months of life. This agreement suggests that these estimates are accurate for this population. All natural and fishing mortality occurred within the first 15 weeks of the study. This suggests that young sharks are most vulnerable to all types of mortality during this period. Sharks that survived beyond the first 15 weeks successfully left the nursery and were presumed to have migrated southward during fall months. These results provide critical information concerning the early life history of sharks and the importance of nursery areas to the survival of young animals.
Outcomes after traffic injury
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-04-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12888-020-02601-4
Abstract: Mental health symptoms, like depressive mood (DM) and post-traumatic stress (PTS), and pain interference (PI) with daily functioning often co-occur following traffic injury and their comorbidity can complicate recovery. This study aimed to map the course and overlapping trajectories of mental health symptoms, and associations with PI in a traffic injury population. In total, 2019 adults sustaining minor-to-moderate traffic injury were recruited within 28 days post-injury and assessed using phone interviews at 1, 6 and 12-months post-injury. Trajectories of DM, PTS and PI were established and relationships between DM, PTS and PI trajectories were explored using dual trajectory modelling. Bio-psychosocial predictors (e.g. pre-injury health, catastrophizing, acute distress, quality of life, social support) of mental health trajectories were investigated. Up to five typical post-trauma trajectories were identified for DM, PTS and PI. Most people were in a resilient mental health trajectory (over 60%, DM or PTS), or in a chronic PI trajectory (almost 60%) 12 months post-injury. While recovery/resilient mental health trajectories were strongly interrelated (73.4% joint probability and 94% conditional probabilities), DM/PTS comorbidity in chronic trajectories was not straightforward, suggesting a possibly asymmetric relationship. That is, persistent DM was more likely associated with persistent PTS (90.4%), than vice versa (31.9%), with a 22.5% probability that persistent PTS was associated with none or milder depression (i.e. following a recovery/resilient DM trajectory). An asymmetrical relationship was also found between mental health and PI. The majority of those with persistent PI were likely to be in a recovery/resilient DM/PTS trajectory (almost 70%), but those in a non-resilient DM/PTS trajectory showed a high risk of persistent PI. Predictors of non-resilient mental health trajectories included poorer pre-injury health and social support, and shared factors like acute psychological distress and pain catastrophizing. Strong interrelations were confirmed between mental health symptoms and PI following traffic injury. However, persistent DM was more strongly linked to persistent PTS, than vice versa. Persistent PI was only linked with persistent DM/PTS in vulnerable subgroups. Early psychiatric sychological interventions should target elevated psychological distress and negative appraisals in vulnerable in iduals, to reduce long-term mental health morbidity/comorbidity and PI. ACTRN12613000889752 .
The psychological impact of traffic injuries sustained in a road crash by bicyclists: A prospective study
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-02-2017
DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2016.1248760
Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the psychological impact of traffic injuries in bicyclists (cyclists) in comparison to car occupants who also sustained traffic injuries. Factors predictive of elevated psychological distress were also investigated. An inception cohort prospective design was used. Participants included cyclists aged ≥17 years (mean age 41.7 years) who sustained a physical injury (n = 238) assessed within 28 days of the crash, following medical examination by a registered health care practitioner. Injury included musculoskeletal and soft tissue injuries and minor/moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI), excluding severe TBI, spinal cord injury, and severe multiple fractures. Assessment also occurred 6 months postinjury. Telephone-administered interviews assessed a suite of measures including sociodemographic, preinjury health and injury factors. Psychological impact was measured by pain catastrophization, trauma-related distress, and general psychological distress. The psychological health of the cyclists was compared to that of the car occupants (n = 234 mean age 43.1 years). A mixed model repeated measures analysis, adjusted for confounding factors, was used to determine differences between groups and regression analyses were used to determine contributors to psychological health in the cyclists 6 months postinjury. Cyclists had significantly better psychological health (e.g., lower pain catastrophizing, lower rates of probable posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD], and lower general distress levels) compared to car occupants at baseline and 6 months postinjury. Factors predictive of cyclists' psychological distress included younger age, greater perceived danger of death, poorer preinjury health, and greater amount of time in hospital after the injury. These data provide insight into how cyclists perceive and adjust to their traffic injuries compared to drivers and passengers who sustain traffic injuries, as well as direction for preventing the development of severe psychological injury. Future research should examine the utility of predictors of psychological health to improve recovery.
Movement and distribution of young bull sharks Carcharhinus leucas in a variable estuarine environment
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 05-02-2008
DOI: 10.3354/AB00030
Spatio-Temporal Occurrence Patterns of Young Sharks in Tropical Coastal Waters
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-02-2015
Widespread diversity deficits of coral reef sharks and rays
Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Date: 16-06-2023
Abstract: A global survey of coral reefs reveals that overfishing is driving resident shark species toward extinction, causing ersity deficits in reef elasmobranch (shark and ray) assemblages. Our species-level analysis revealed global declines of 60 to 73% for five common resident reef shark species and that in idual shark species were not detected at 34 to 47% of surveyed reefs. As reefs become more shark-depleted, rays begin to dominate assemblages. Shark-dominated assemblages persist in wealthy nations with strong governance and in highly protected areas, whereas poverty, weak governance, and a lack of shark management are associated with depauperate assemblages mainly composed of rays. Without action to address these ersity deficits, loss of ecological function and ecosystem services will increasingly affect human communities.
The contribution of pre-injury vulnerability to risk of psychiatric morbidity in adults injured in a road traffic crash: Comparisons with non-injury controls
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2021
Biomarkers of autonomic regulation for predicting psychological distress and functional recovery following road traffic injuries: protocol for a prospective cohort study
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-024391
Abstract: Psychological distress is a prevalent condition often overlooked following a motor vehicle crash (MVC), particularly when injuries are not severe. The aim of this study is to examine whether biomarkers of autonomic regulation alone or in combination with other factors assessed shortly after MVC could predict risk of elevated psychological distress and poor functional recovery in the long term, and clarify links between mental and physical health consequences of traffic injury. This is a controlled longitudinal cohort study, with follow-up occurring at 3, 6 and 12 months. Participants include up to 120 mild to moderately injured MVC survivors who consecutively present to the emergency departments of two hospitals in Sydney and who agree to participate, and a group of up to 120 non-MVC controls, recruited with matched demographic characteristics, for comparison. WHO International Classification of Functioning is used as the framework for study assessment. The primary outcomes are the development of psychological distress (depressive mood and anxiety, post-traumatic stress symptoms, driving phobia, adjustment disorder) and biomarkers of autonomic regulation. Secondary outcomes include indicators of physical health (presence of pain/fatigue, physical functioning) and functional recovery (quality of life, return to function, participation) as well as measures of emotional and cognitive functioning. For each outcome, risk will be described by the frequency of occurrence over the 12 months, and pathways determined via latent class mixture growth modelling. Regression models will be used to identify best predictors/biomarkers and to study associations between mental and physical health. Ethical approvals were obtained from the Sydney Local Health District and the research sites Ethics Committees. Study findings will be disseminated to health professionals, related policy makers and the community through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and health forums. ACTRN12616001445460.
Is acoustic tracking appropriate for air-breathing marine animals? Dugongs as a case study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
A large predatory reef fish species moderates feeding and activity patterns in response to seasonal and latitudinal temperature variation
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-10-2017
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-017-13277-4
Abstract: Climate-driven increases in ocean temperatures are expected to affect the metabolic requirements of marine species substantially. To mitigate the impacts of increasing temperatures in the short-term, it may be necessary for ectothermic organisms to alter their foraging behaviour and activity. Herein, we investigate seasonal variation in foraging behaviour and activity of latitudinally distinct populations of a large coral reef predator, the common coral trout, Plectropomus leopardus , from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. P. leopardus exhibited increased foraging frequency in summer versus winter time, irrespective of latitude, however, foraging frequency substantially declined at water temperatures °C. Foraging frequency also decreased with body size but there was no interaction with temperature. Activity patterns were directly correlated with water temperature during summer, the low-latitude population of P. leopardus spent up to 62% of their time inactive, compared with 43% for the high-latitude population. The impact of water temperature on activity patterns was greatest for larger in iduals. These results show that P. leopardus moderate their foraging behaviour and activity according to changes in ambient temperatures. It seems likely that increasing ocean temperatures may impose significant constraints on the capacity of large-bodied fishes to obtain sufficient prey resources while simultaneously conserving energy.
Importance of environmental and biological drivers in the presence and space use of a reef-associated shark
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 27-01-2014
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS10529
Crossing lines: A multidisciplinary framework for assessing connectivity of hammerhead sharks across jurisdictional boundaries
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-04-2017
DOI: 10.1038/SREP46061
Abstract: Conservation and management of migratory species can be complex and challenging. International agreements such as the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) provide policy frameworks, but assessments and management can be h ered by lack of data and tractable mechanisms to integrate disparate datasets. An assessment of scalloped ( Sphyrna lewini ) and great ( Sphyrna mokarran ) hammerhead population structure and connectivity across northern Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) was conducted to inform management responses to CMS and Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species listings of these species. An Integrated Assessment Framework (IAF) was devised to systematically incorporate data across jurisdictions and create a regional synopsis, and amalgamated a suite of data from the Australasian region. Scalloped hammerhead populations are segregated by sex and size, with Australian populations dominated by juveniles and small adult males, while Indonesian and PNG populations included large adult females. The IAF process introduced genetic and tagging data to produce conceptual models of stock structure and movement. Several hypotheses were produced to explain stock structure and movement patterns, but more data are needed to identify the most likely hypothesis. This study demonstrates a process for assessing migratory species connectivity and highlights priority areas for hammerhead management and research.
Distribution of sea snakes in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: Observations from 10 yrs of baited remote underwater video station (BRUVS) sampling
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-04-2014
Improving Assessment of Cognitive Impairment after Spinal Cord Injury: Methods to Reduce the Risk of Reporting False Positives
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 21-12-2022
DOI: 10.3390/JCM12010068
Abstract: Adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) are reported to have heightened risk of cognitive impairment, notably mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Reports of increased risk of MCI are almost exclusively based on cross-sectional assessments of cognitive function using norm-referenced scores. Norm-referenced single-point assessments do not reflect cognitive decline at the in idual level but rather represent between group differences in cognitive function. The practice of relying solely on norm-referenced assessment to study MCI after SCI is therefore problematic as it lends to potential misclassification of MCI. Premorbid intelligence estimates permit comparison of people’s actual versus expected cognitive function and thereby can be used to validate the presence of genuine cognitive decline. These are not utilized in the assessment of MCI after SCI. This study simulated data for 500,000 adults with SCI to compare norm-referenced and premorbid-intelligence methods of screening for MCI to examine the potential extent of MCI misclassification after SCI resulting from the overreliance on norm-referenced methods and exclusion of premorbid intelligence methods. One in five to one in 13 simulated adults with SCI were potentially misclassified as having MCI showing that measures of premorbid cognitive function must be included in assessment of cognitive function after SCI.
Australia’s continental-scale acoustic tracking database and its automated quality control process
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-01-2018
Abstract: Our ability to predict species responses to environmental changes relies on accurate records of animal movement patterns. Continental-scale acoustic telemetry networks are increasingly being established worldwide, producing large volumes of information-rich geospatial data. During the last decade, the Integrated Marine Observing System’s Animal Tracking Facility (IMOS ATF) established a permanent array of acoustic receivers around Australia. Simultaneously, IMOS developed a centralised national database to foster collaborative research across the user community and quantify in idual behaviour across a broad range of taxa. Here we present the database and quality control procedures developed to collate 49.6 million valid detections from 1891 receiving stations. This dataset consists of detections for 3,777 tags deployed on 117 marine species, with distances travelled ranging from a few to thousands of kilometres. Connectivity between regions was only made possible by the joint contribution of IMOS infrastructure and researcher-funded receivers. This dataset constitutes a valuable resource facilitating meta-analysis of animal movement, distributions, and habitat use, and is important for relating species distribution shifts with environmental covariates.
Assessing fine-scale diel movement patterns of an exploited coral reef fish
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-09-2015
Evaluating marine protected areas for the conservation of tropical coastal sharks
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
Population structure and residency patterns of the blacktip reef shark Carcharhinus melanopterus in turbid coastal environments
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-03-2013
DOI: 10.1111/JFB.12057
Abstract: This study examined the characteristics of a blacktip reef shark Carcharhinus melanopterus population in turbid coastal habitats through a multi-year fishery-independent s ling and tag-recapture programme. Results revealed a highly structured population comprised almost entirely of juveniles and adult females with in iduals between 850 and 1050 mm total length effectively absent. Mature males were also rarely encountered with adult sex ratio highly biased towards females (female:male = 7:1). Mating scars were observed on adult females between December and April, and parturition was observed from December to March. Regression analysis showed that catch rates were significantly higher during the summer wet season between November and May. Recapture data suggested a highly resident population with a recapture rate of 21% and a mean recapture distance of 0·8 km. In addition, 33% of recaptured animals were captured multiple times, indicating long-term residency. Most recaptures were, however, of adults with few juveniles recaptured. Widespread s ling at the study site and in adjacent areas suggested that the population was highly localized to a specific bay. The bimodal and sex-segregated population structure observed here differs from previous reports for this species, and in combination with reproductive observations, suggests population structuring to facilitate reproductive and recruitment success. These data also highlight the potential ecosystem functions performed by coastal habitats in sustaining C. melanopterus populations.
Geographic and temporal variation in the trophic ecology of a small-bodied shark: Evidence of resilience to environmental change
Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing
Date: 03-2014
Abstract: Shark dietary patterns can determine how they will respond to changes in prey availability and bio ersity. Geographic variation in diet can also indicate if species have unique structuring roles or feeding strategies in different environments. Unfortunately, little is known about the diet of most shark species and how diet varies over time and space. This study used stable isotope analysis to assess the diet of the Australian sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon taylori). Plasma and muscle δ 13 C and δ 15 N of R. taylori were compared with δ 13 C and δ 15 N baselines from multiple embayments to determine the isotopic niche, trophic position, and benthic and pelagic contributions to diet over time and space. Overall, R. taylori had a wide trophic position range and consumed prey from benthic and pelagic sources. However, there was geographic and temporal variation in trophic position and benthic and pelagic contributions. These findings indicate R. taylori is a dietary generalist, but different populations may have unique effects on distinct ecosystems. Geographic variation in diet also suggests R. taylori may be adaptive to changes in prey availability.
Blood lactate loads of redthroat emperor Lethrinus miniatus associated with angling stress and exhaustive exercise
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-09-2013
DOI: 10.1111/JFB.12216
Abstract: Baseline, post-angling and maximum attainable blood lactate concentrations were measured for the fishery species redthroat emperor Lethrinus miniatus to gain insight into the condition of fish released following c. 30 s angling and <45 s air exposure. Mean ± S.D. baseline blood lactate was 1·5 ± 0·6 mmol l⁻¹, which increased and plateaued around 6 mmol l⁻¹ at 15-30 min post-angling. These values were significantly lower than those obtained from fish maximally exhausted with a prolonged chase and air exposure protocol following capture (10·9 ± 1·8 mmol l⁻¹), suggesting that L. miniatus is not maximally exhausted during standard angling practices.
Mortality rates for two shark species occupying a shared coastal environment
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2012
Foraging behaviour of the epaulette shark Hemiscyllium ocellatum is not affected by elevated CO2
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-04-2015
Abstract: Increased oceanic uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is a threat to marine organisms and ecosystems. Among the most dramatic consequences predicted to date are behavioural impairments in marine fish which appear to be caused by the interference of elevated CO2 with a key neurotransmitter receptor in the brain. In this study, we tested the effects of elevated CO2 on the foraging and shelter-seeking behaviours of the reef-dwelling epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum. Juvenile sharks were exposed for 30 d to control CO2 (400 µatm) and two elevated CO2 treatments (615 and 910 µatm), consistent with medium- and high-end projections for ocean pCO2 by 2100. Contrary to the effects observed in teleosts and in some other sharks, behaviour of the epaulette shark was unaffected by elevated CO2. A potential explanation is the remarkable adaptation of H. ocellatum to low environmental oxygen conditions (hypoxia) and diel fluctuations in CO2 encountered in their shallow reef habitat. This ability translates into behavioural tolerance of near-future ocean acidification, suggesting that behavioural tolerance and subsequent adaptation to projected future CO2 levels might be possible in some other fish, if adaptation can keep pace with the rate of rising CO2 levels.
Application of baited remote underwater video surveys to quantify spatial distribution of elasmobranchs at an ecosystem scale
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
Demography of a large exploited grouper, Plectropomus laevis: Implications for fisheries management
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1071/MF09056
Abstract: Species in the coral trout complex Plectropomus spp. are some of the most desired and exploited in the Indo-Pacific, although data are limited for most species. Demographic parameters of blue-spot coral trout, Plectropomus laevis, were estimated on the basis of specimens collected from five regions of the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait, Australia, between 1995 and 2005 to define demography and population status over a broad range. In total, 1249 in iduals were collected to estimate growth, mortality and reproductive parameters. Growth parameters based on the von Bertalanffy model were K = 0.096 year–1, L∞ = 1159 mm fork length (FL) and the best-fit model suggested non-asymptotic growth over the size and age ranges represented in the s le. Maximum age was 16 years, total mortality was estimated at 0.39 (±0.031), and estimated size and age at first maturity were 299 mm FL (range: 299–872) and at 1 year (range: 1–6.5), respectively, with the size range over which sex change occurred at 460–872 mm FL. Population parameters and available relative abundance estimates indicated that long-term sustainable harvest rates of P. laevis will be lower than those for P. leopardus and species-specific size-based management measures are necessary to ensure the species is not overfished.
Long-term movement patterns of a coral reef predator
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-02-2015
Telemetry reveals spatial separation of co-occurring reef sharks
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 23-02-2018
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS12423
Long-term site fidelity of endangered small-tooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata) from different mothers
Publisher: NMFS Publications Office
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.7755/FB.114.4.8
Batoid nurseries: Definition, use and importance
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 14-05-2018
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS12545
Automated acoustic tracking of aquatic animals: Scales, design and deployment of listening station arrays
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2006
DOI: 10.1071/MF05091
Abstract: The recent introduction of low-cost, moored data-logging acoustic receivers has provided opportunities for tracking marine organisms over small (hundreds of metres) and large scales (hundreds of kilometres). Acoustic receivers have been deployed in many different environments to examine specific hypotheses regarding the movement of aquatic species. This technology provides many advantages for studying aquatic animal movement patterns, but also has limitations and provides unique difficulties for users. Study design, applications, advantages and limitations are discussed with ex les from past and current studies. Data management and analysis techniques are in their infancy and few standardised techniques exist. Complications with data management and potential data analysis techniques are discussed. Ex les from the literature are utilised wherever possible to provide useful references.
A Narrative Review of Research on Adjustment to Spinal Cord Injury and Mental Health: Gaps, Future Directions, and Practice Recommendations
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-2022
DOI: 10.2147/PRBM.S259712
Association between head injury and concussion with retinal vessel caliber
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 11-07-2018
Quick fix GPS technology highlights risk to dugongs moving between protected areas
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 07-03-2016
DOI: 10.3354/ESR00725
Analysis of the supply chain and conservation status of sharks (Elasmobranchii: Superorder Selachimorpha) based on fisher knowledge
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 13-03-2018
Importance of Shallow Tidal Habitats as Refugia from Trawl Fishing for Sea Snakes
Publisher: Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles
Date: 12-2016
DOI: 10.1670/15-026
Patterns of health service utilisation of mothers experiencing mental health problems and intimate partner violence: Ten-year follow-up of an Australian prospective mother and child cohort
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 15-06-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0269626
Abstract: Few studies have investigated health service use of mothers experiencing mental health problems or intimate partner violence (IPV). The aim of this study was to investigate health service utilisation of mothers experiencing mental health problems and intimate partner violence ten years after having a first baby. Prospective cohort of 1507 first-time mothers recruited in Melbourne, Australia. Follow-up at ten years incorporated: Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, Composite Abuse Scale. At ten years postpartum, one in four mothers (26.1%) reported depressive, anxiety or posttraumatic stress symptoms, and almost one in five (19.4%) reported recent IPV. Two-fifths of mothers reporting clinically significant mental health symptoms had experienced recent IPV (Odds Ratio = 5.6, 95% CI 3.9–8.1). Less than half of mothers experiencing mental health problems at ten-year follow-up had discussed their mental health with a general practitioner and around one in three had talked to a mental health professional. Two-thirds of mothers experiencing recent IPV had not disclosed this to a general practitioner or mental health professional. The findings highlight the extent to which many women deal with IPV and mental health problems without the support that primary health care and mental health care could provide and point to the need for more concerted efforts to strengthen health system responses to these frequently related issues.
Sheina orri (Myodocopa: Cypridinidae), an ostracod parasitic on the gills of the epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum (Elasmobranchii: Hemiscyllidae)
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-1997
DOI: 10.1016/S0020-7519(96)00201-9
Abstract: The cypridinid ostracod, Sheina orri, was found on the gills of healthy epaulette sharks, Hemiscyllium ocellatum, collected from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Seventeen of the 28 fish examined had ostracods attached to their gills. Detailed investigation of the gills and ostracods using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed that ostracods anchor themselves to the gill tissues using their mandibular and maxillular claws. These claws appear to be adapted for this purpose and the process of attachment causes some damage to the host tissues. The observation that ostracods were often located in distinct pockets, formed by local distortion of shark respiratory lamellae, strongly suggests that they had been attached to the gills for considerable time.
Habitat use and movement patterns of bull sharks Carcharhinus leucas determined using pop-up satellite archival tags
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-06-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1095-8649.2010.02707.X
Abstract: Habitat use, movement and residency of bull sharks Carcharhinus leucas were determined using satellite pop-up archival transmitting (PAT) tags throughout coastal areas in the U.S., Gulf of Mexico and waters off the south-east U.S. From 2005 to 2007, 18 fish (mean size = 164 cm fork length, L(F)) were tagged over all seasons. Fish retained tags for up to 85 days (median = 30 days). Based on geolocation data from initial tagging location to pop-off location, C. leucas generally travelled c. 5-6 km day(-1) and travelled an average of 143.6 km. Overall, mean proportions of time at depth revealed C. leucas spent the majority of their time in waters <20 m. They exhibited significant differences among depths but were not found at a particular depth regardless of diurnal period. Most fish occupied temperatures c. 32 degrees C with in iduals found mostly between 26 and 33 degrees C. Geolocation data for C. leucas were generally poor and varied considerably but tracks for two in iduals revealed long distance movements. One fish travelled from the south-east coast of the U.S. to coastal Texas near Galveston while another moved up the east coast of the U.S. to South Carolina. Data on C. leucas movements indicated that they are found primarily in shallower waters and tend to remain in the same location over long periods. While some in iduals made large-scale movements over open ocean areas, the results emphasize the importance of the coastal zone for this species as potential essential habitat, particularly in areas of high freshwater inflow.
Defining shark ecological specialisation: Concepts, context, and examples
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-11-2014
Key Questions in Marine Megafauna Movement Ecology
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.TREE.2016.02.015
Abstract: It is a golden age for animal movement studies and so an opportune time to assess priorities for future work. We assembled 40 experts to identify key questions in this field, focussing on marine megafauna, which include a broad range of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish. Research on these taxa has both underpinned many of the recent technical developments and led to fundamental discoveries in the field. We show that the questions have broad applicability to other taxa, including terrestrial animals, flying insects, and swimming invertebrates, and, as such, this exercise provides a useful roadmap for targeted deployments and data syntheses that should advance the field of movement ecology.
The Need for a Specialized Neurocognitive Screen and Consistent Cognitive Impairment Criteria in Spinal Cord Injury: Analysis of the Suitability of the Neuropsychiatry Unit Cognitive Assessment Tool
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-06-2022
DOI: 10.3390/JCM11123344
Abstract: The assessment of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) following spinal cord injury (SCI) is vital. However, there are no neurocognitive screens which have been developed specifically to meet the unique requirements for SCI, nor are there consistent MCI criteria applied to determine the rates of MCI. The aim of this study was to determine the suitability of a neurocognitive screen for assessing MCI in adults with SCI. A total of 127 participants were recruited. Socio-demographic and injury related variables were assessed. All participants completed the screen. Descriptive statistics are provided for total/domain screen scores and all items, and the screen’s ability to distinguish MCI was examined. Congeneric confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were employed to investigate structural validity. The screen total score was sensitive to differences in neurocognitive capacity, as well as for time since the injury occurred (p 0.01). The MCI rate ranged between 17–36%. CFA revealed attention and visuoconstruction domains had an adequate model fit and executive function had poor fit, while CFA models for memory and language did not fit the data (did not converge), hence could not be determined. While the screen differentiated between those with MCI and those without, and MCI as a function of time since injury, limitations of its suitability for assessing MCI after SCI exist, demonstrating the need for a specialized neurocognitive screen for adults with SCI.
HARMONY: a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial of a culturally competent systems intervention to prevent and reduce domestic violence among migrant and refugee families in general practice:
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2021
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-046431
Abstract: Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) is prevalent, harmful and more dangerous among diaspora communities because of the difficulty accessing DVA services, language and migration issues. Consequently, migrant/refugee women are common among primary care populations, but evidence for culturally competent DVA primary care practice is negligible. This pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial aims to increase DVA identification and referral (primary outcomes) threefold and safety planning (secondary outcome) among erse women attending intervention vs comparison primary care clinics. Additionally, the study plans to improve recording of DVA, ethnicity, and conduct process and economic evaluations. Recruitment of ≤28 primary care clinics in Melbourne, Australia with high migrant/refugee communities. Eligible clinics need ≥1 South Asian general practitioner (GP) and one of two common software programmes to enable aggregated routine data extraction by GrHanite. Intervention staff undertake three DVA training sessions from a GP educator and bilingual DVA advocate/educator. Following training, clinic staff and DVA affected women 18+ will be supported for 12 months by the advocate/educator. Comparison clinics are trained in ethnicity and DVA data entry and offer routine DVA care. Data extraction of DV identification, safety planning and referral from routine GP data in both arms. Adjusted regression analysis by intention-to-treat by staff blinded to arm. Economic evaluation will estimate cost-effectiveness and cost–utility. Process evaluation interviews and analysis with primary care staff and women will be framed by Normalisation Process Theory to maximise understanding of sustainability. Harmony will be the first primary care trial to test a culturally competent model for the care of erse women experiencing DVA. Ethical approval from La Trobe University Human Ethics Committee (HEC18413) and dissemination by policy briefs, journal articles and conference and community presentations. ANZCTR- ACTRN12618001845224 Pre-results.
Seasonal variability in stable isotopes of estuarine consumers under different freshwater flow regimes
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 30-07-2013
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS10402
Trophic niche and spatio-temporal changes in the feeding ecology of two sympatric species of coral trout (Plectropomus leopardus and P. laevis)
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 20-01-2017
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS11971
Variable response of coastal sharks to severe tropical storms: Environmental cues and changes in space use
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 22-04-2013
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS10244
Envisioning the Future of Aquatic Animal Tracking: Technology, Science, and Application
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 13-09-2017
Habitat and space use of an abundant nearshore shark, Rhizoprionodon taylori
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1071/MF13272
Abstract: Shark resource-use strategies affect how they will respond to changes within their environment and, as such, may be important to consider in conservation and management. Movement data on sharks that use nearshore areas is particularly valuable because these habitats are highly dynamic. The present study used passive acoustic telemetry to examine the space-use, habitat-selection and habitat-specialisation patterns of the Australian sharpnose shark, Rhizoprionodon taylori, in a nearshore area. Habitat selectivity and specialisation were assessed across five benthic habitat types, including outer bay, seagrass, reef, sandy inshore and intertidal mudflats. The majority of R. taylori sharks were present for short periods of time, ranging from 1 to 112 days (mean ± s.e. = 16.9 ± 4.9). Activity-space analysis indicated that R. taylori roamed widely, but monthly activity-space size was consistent among in iduals and through time. Both the population and in iduals displayed wide habitat niches, indicating that the species may be resilient to environmental change. However, R. taylori consistently selected for seagrass over other habitats, potentially for feeding. Therefore, declines in seagrass availability may reduce R. taylori presence in nearshore areas and may be relevant to spatial management of this species.
Continental-scale animal tracking reveals functional movement classes across marine taxa
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-02-2018
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-018-21988-5
Abstract: Acoustic telemetry is a principle tool for observing aquatic animals, but coverage over large spatial scales remains a challenge. To resolve this, Australia has implemented the Integrated Marine Observing System’s Animal Tracking Facility which comprises a continental-scale hydrophone array and coordinated data repository. This national acoustic network connects localized projects, enabling simultaneous monitoring of multiple species over scales ranging from 100 s of meters to 1000 s of kilometers. There is a need to evaluate the utility of this national network in monitoring animal movement ecology, and to identify the spatial scales that the network effectively operates over. Cluster analyses assessed movements and residency of 2181 in iduals from 92 species, and identified four functional movement classes apparent only through aggregating data across the entire national network. These functional movement classes described movement metrics of in iduals rather than species, and highlighted the plasticity of movement patterns across and within populations and species. Network analyses assessed the utility and redundancy of each component of the national network, revealing multiple spatial scales of connectivity influenced by the geographic positioning of acoustic receivers. We demonstrate the significance of this nationally coordinated network of receivers to better reveal intra-specific differences in movement profiles and discuss implications for effective management.
Integrating complementary methods to improve diet analysis in fishery‐targeted species
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-08-2018
DOI: 10.1002/ECE3.4456
Spatial distribution and long-term movement patterns of cownose rays Rhinoptera bonasus within an estuarine river
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-10-2008
Estimating Abundance of Reef-Dwelling Sharks: A Case Study of the Epaulette Shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum (Elasmobranchii: Hemiscyllidae)1
Publisher: Pacific Science
Date: 07-2007
Coming up for air: thermal dependence of dive behaviours and metabolism in sea snakes.
Publisher: The Company of Biologists
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1242/JEB.146571
Abstract: Cutaneous gas exchange allows some air-breathing ing ectotherms to supplement their pulmonary oxygen uptake, which may allow prolongation of es and an increased capacity to withstand anthropogenic and natural threatening processes that increase submergence times. However, little is known of the interplay between metabolism, bimodal oxygen uptake and activity levels across thermal environments in ing ectotherms. Here, we show in two species of sea snake (spine-bellied sea snake, Hydrophis curtus and elegant sea snake, Hydrophis elegans) that increasing temperature elevates surfacing rate, increases total oxygen consumption and decreases e duration. The majority of es observed in both species remained within estimated maximal aerobic limits. While cutaneous gas exchange accounted for a substantial proportion of total oxygen consumption (up to 23%), unexpectedly it was independent of water temperature and activity levels, suggesting a diffusion-limited mechanism. Our findings demonstrate that rising water temperature and a limited capability to up-regulate cutaneous oxygen uptake may compromise the proficiency with which sea snakes perform prolonged es. This may hinder their capacity to withstand ongoing anthropogenic activities like trawl fishing, and increase their susceptibility to surface predation as their natural environments continue to warm.
Shark biology, ecology and management: Introduction
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1071/MF11049
Variation in abundance, diversity and composition of coral reef fishes with increasing depth at a submerged shoal in the northern Great Barrier Reef
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-06-2022
DOI: 10.1007/S11160-022-09716-9
Abstract: Coral reef fishes often exhibit specific or restricted depth distributions, but the factors (biotic or abiotic) that influence patterns of depth use are largely unknown. Given inherent biological gradients with depth (i.e. light, nutrients, habitat, temperature), it is expected that fishes may exploit certain depths within their environment to seek out more favourable conditions. This study used baited remote underwater video (BRUV) systems to document variation in the taxonomic and functional (trophic and size) structure of a fish assemblage along a shallow to upper-mesophotic depth gradient (13–71 m) at a submerged, offshore shoal in the northern Great Barrier Reef. BRUVs were deployed during two separate time periods (February and August 2017), to separately examine patterns of depth use. Both the relative abundance and ersity of reef fishes declined with depth, and there were pronounced differences in the taxonomic and functional structure of the fish assemblage across the depth gradient. In shallow habitats ( 30 m), the fish assemblage was dominated by herbivores, detritivores, planktivores and sessile invertivores, whereas the fish assemblage in deeper habitats ( 30 m) was dominated by piscivores and mobile invertivores. Depth and habitat type were also strong predictors for important fisheries species such as coral trout ( Plectropomus spp.), emperors ( Lethrinus spp.) and trevallies (Carangid spp.). We found limited evidence of temporal changes in depth and habitat use by fishes (including fisheries target species), although recorded temperatures were 4 °C higher in February 2017 compared to August 2017.
Effects of environmental variables on the movement and space use of coastal sea snakes over multiple temporal scales
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
Occurrence, home range and movement patterns of juvenile bull (Carcharhinus leucas) and lemon (Negaprion brevirostris) sharks within a Florida estuary
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1071/MF07181
Abstract: The movement patterns of large juveniles are poorly known for many shark species. With increasing pressure on shark populations these data are critical for the management of large coastal species. A series of acoustic receivers were positioned in Pine Island Sound, Florida, USA, to passively track the long-term movements of large juvenile bull (Carcharhinus leucas) and lemon (Negaprion brevirostris) sharks. Nineteen C. leucas and five N. brevirostris were monitored during 2003 and 2004. In idual C. leucas were present for 8 to 89 days, while N. brevirostris were present for 12 to 83 days. Weekly minimum convex polygons and kernel utilisation distributions were calculated to demonstrate the home range and core areas of use of both species. Spectral analysis demonstrated that several N. brevirostris showed repetitive diel north–south movement patterns over periods of up to 28 consecutive days. C. leucas demonstrated regular use of backwater habitats. Long-term use of estuarine areas by these large juvenile sharks suggests that estuarine coastal lagoons provide an important habitat for this portion of their life history and as such, protection of these habitats may assist in shark management and conservation.
Variation in blacktip shark movement patterns in a tropical coastal bay
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-02-2016
Coastal habitat use and residency of juvenile Atlantic sharpnose sharks (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae)
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-08-2008
A prospective cohort study investigating contributors to mild cognitive impairment in adults with spinal cord injury: Study protocol
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-09-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12883-020-01899-7
Abstract: Studies report rates of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in spinal cord injury (SCI) range between 10 and 60%. This broad estimate of MCI in SCI is most likely a result of: (i) inconsistent operationalization of MCI (ii) heterogeneity among in iduals with SCI (iii) failure to account for MCI subtypes, thereby adding to the heterogeneity of s les and, (iv) poor control for traumatic brain injury (TBI) that obscures differentiation of MCI attributable to TBI versus other factors. There is a paucity of longitudinal studies following the course of MCI in SCI, and none that account for multiple predictors of MCI, including interactions among predictors. An inception cohort longitudinal study will assess approximately 100 in iduals aged 17–80 years with acute SCI, with measures taken at three timepoints (baseline, 3 months post-baseline, and 12 months post-injury). Data relevant to medical care received within the first 24–48 h of presentation to the emergency department will be analysed, as will measures of cognition, injury characteristics, medical history, personal factors, psychological status, psychosocial functioning, and quality of life. Latent class mixture modelling will determine trajectories for the primary outcome of interest, cognitive functioning and its subtypes, and secondary outcomes of interest such as depression. Multiple regression analyses will identify predictors of MCI and its subtypes. The prospective design will reveal change in cognitive functioning across time and unveil different outcome trajectories thus addressing the lack of knowledge on trajectories of MCI and MCI subtypes in SCI. Through subtyping MCI, we hope to yield groups of cognitively impaired in iduals with SCI that are potentially more homogenous and thereby stable and predictable. This is the first study to capture emergency department and acute care diagnostic evidence of mild TBI, which has been poorly controlled in previous studies. Our study will also be the first to distinguish the contribution of TBI from other factors to the development of MCI in in iduals with SCI. The study was prospectively registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ( ACTRN12619001702101 ) on 3rd December 2019.
Effects of seeking compensation on the psychological health and recovery of injured patients
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 09-06-2022
DOI: 10.1017/S003329172000166X
Abstract: Seeking compensation has been shown to have an adverse effect on the psychological health and recovery of injured patients, however, this effect requires clarification. A total of 2019 adults sustaining a traffic injury were recruited. Of these, 709 (35.1%) lodged a compensation claim. Interviews occurred at 1-, 6- and 12-month post-injury. Outcomes were psychological distress (posttraumatic stress (PTS) and depressive symptoms) and health-related functioning (HrF) (quality of life measured by EQ-5D-3L and disability by WHODAS) over 12-months post-injury. Covariates included in idual stress vulnerability (preinjury, injury-related factors). Compared with non-compensation participants, compensation groups had higher stress vulnerability (more severe injuries and negative reactions) and poorer baseline outcomes (psychological health and HrF). After adjustment, we found an effect of compensation on HrF [ β -0.09 (−0.11 to −0.07), p 0.001] and PTS [ β = 0.36 (0.16 to 0.56), p = 0.0003], but not on depression [ β = −0.07 (−0.42 to 0.28), p = 0.7]. Both groups improved over time. Vulnerable in iduals ( β = 1.23, p 0.001) and those with poorer baseline outcomes (PTS: β = 0.06, p = 0.002 HrF: β = −1.07, p 0.001) were more likely to lodge a claim. In turn, higher stress vulnerability, poor baseline outcomes and claiming compensation were associated with long-term psychological distress and HrF. Nevertheless, concurrent HrF in the model fully accounted for the compensation effect on psychological distress ( β = −0.14, p = 0.27), but not vice versa. This study provides convincing evidence that seeking compensation is not necessarily harmful to psychological health. The person's stress vulnerability and injury-related disability emerge as major risk factors of long-term psychological distress, requiring a whole-systems approach to address the problem.
Residency and movement patterns of bonnethead sharks, Sphyrna tiburo, in a large Florida estuary
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-2006
Influence of environmental factors on shark and ray movement, behaviour and habitat use: a review
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-07-2014
Ontogenetic shifts in movement and habitat use of juvenile pigeye sharks Carcharhinus amboinensis in a tropical nearshore region
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 14-03-2011
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS09006
Diversity in immature-shark communities along a tropical coastline
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1071/MF14033
Abstract: Effective conservation and management of shark populations is complicated by our limited understanding of their spatial ecology. For ex le, there are scarce data on ersity in community structure and nursery function across broader geographic scales (e.g. across multiple inshore systems) and the implications of this ersity for shark populations. Accordingly, fishery-independent surveys were undertaken to investigate shark communities along ~400km of the tropical eastern coast of Australia (18.1–20.6°S, 146.0–148.8°E). A variety of shark species were encountered, with 19 species of Carcharhiniformes contributing 99.2% of the total shark catch. Of the 1806 sharks captured, 567 were immature, including 336 young-of-the-year in iduals. Immature sharks from 18 species were present however, interspecific variation in the proportions of life-history stages was apparent. Multivariate analyses identified significant spatial heterogeneity in immature-shark communities. Results also highlighted the importance of tropical coastal habitats for numerous shark species, and indicated community-wide spatial structuring of sharks on the basis of body size rather than life-history stage. In addition to building on traditional shark-nursery paradigms, these results demonstrated that data on nursery function from restricted areas may not accurately portray patterns occurring over broader geographic scales, and this ersity may provide population-level benefits for sharks.
Shark-like batoids in pacific fisheries: Prevalence and conservation concerns
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 25-01-2013
DOI: 10.3354/ESR00473
Sizing up the ecological role of sharks as predators
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 09-01-2014
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS10597
Effects of human footprint and biophysical factors on the body-size structure of fished marine species
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-07-2022
DOI: 10.1111/COBI.13807
Abstract: Marine fisheries in coastal ecosystems in many areas of the world have historically removed large‐bodied in iduals, potentially impairing ecosystem functioning and the long‐term sustainability of fish populations. Reporting on size‐based indicators that link to food‐web structure can contribute to ecosystem‐based management, but the application of these indicators over large (cross‐ecosystem) geographical scales has been limited to either fisheries‐dependent catch data or er‐based methods restricted to shallow waters ( m) that can misrepresent the abundance of large‐bodied fished species. We obtained data on the body‐size structure of 82 recreationally or commercially targeted marine demersal teleosts from 2904 deployments of baited remote underwater stereo‐video (stereo‐BRUV). S ling was at up to 50 m depth and covered approximately 10,000 km of the continental shelf of Australia. Seascape relief, water depth, and human gravity (i.e., a proxy of human impacts) were the strongest predictors of the probability of occurrence of large fishes and the abundance of fishes above the minimum legal size of capture. No‐take marine reserves had a positive effect on the abundance of fishes above legal size, although the effect varied across species groups. In contrast, sublegal fishes were best predicted by gradients in sea surface temperature (mean and variance). In areas of low human impact, large fishes were about three times more likely to be encountered and fishes of legal size were approximately five times more abundant. For conspicuous species groups with contrasting habitat, environmental, and biogeographic affinities, abundance of legal‐size fishes typically declined as human impact increased. Our large‐scale quantitative analyses highlight the combined importance of seascape complexity, regions with low human footprint, and no‐take marine reserves in protecting large‐bodied fishes across a broad range of species and ecosystem configurations.
Adaptive management of the Great Barrier Reef: A globally significant demonstration of the benefits of networks of marine reserves
Publisher: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Date: 22-02-2010
Abstract: The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) provides a globally significant demonstration of the effectiveness of large-scale networks of marine reserves in contributing to integrated, adaptive management. Comprehensive review of available evidence shows major, rapid benefits of no-take areas for targeted fish and sharks, in both reef and nonreef habitats, with potential benefits for fisheries as well as bio ersity conservation. Large, mobile species like sharks benefit less than smaller, site-attached fish. Critically, reserves also appear to benefit overall ecosystem health and resilience: outbreaks of coral-eating, crown-of-thorns starfish appear less frequent on no-take reefs, which consequently have higher abundance of coral, the very foundation of reef ecosystems. Effective marine reserves require regular review of compliance: fish abundances in no-entry zones suggest that even no-take zones may be significantly depleted due to poaching. Spatial analyses comparing zoning with seabed bio ersity or dugong distributions illustrate significant benefits from application of best-practice conservation principles in data-poor situations. Increases in the marine reserve network in 2004 affected fishers, but preliminary economic analysis suggests considerable net benefits, in terms of protecting environmental and tourism values. Relative to the revenue generated by reef tourism, current expenditure on protection is minor. Recent implementation of an Outlook Report provides regular, formal review of environmental condition and management and links to policy responses, key aspects of adaptive management. Given the major threat posed by climate change, the expanded network of marine reserves provides a critical and cost-effective contribution to enhancing the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef.
Shark nursery areas: Concepts, definition, characterization and assumptions
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 14-05-2007
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS337287
A comparison between traditional kernel-based methods and network analysis: an example from two nearshore shark species
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2015
Age and growth parameters of shark-like batoids
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-04-2014
DOI: 10.1111/JFB.12359
Abstract: Estimates of life-history parameters were made for shark-like batoids of conservation concern Rhynchobatus spp. (Rhynchobatus australiae, Rhynchobatus laevis and Rhynchobatus palpebratus) and Glaucostegus typus using vertebral ageing. The sigmoid growth functions, Gompertz and logistic, best described the growth of Rhynchobatus spp. and G. typus, providing the best statistical fit and most biologically appropriate parameters. The two-parameter logistic was the preferred model for Rhynchobatus spp. with growth parameter estimates (both sexes combined) L(∞) = 2045 mm stretch total length, LST and k = 0·41 year⁻¹. The same model was also preferred for G. typus with growth parameter estimates (both sexes combined) L∞ = 2770 mm LST and k = 0·30 year⁻¹. Annual growth-band deposition could not be excluded in Rhynchobatus spp. using mark-recaptured in iduals. Although morphologically similar G. typus and Rhynchobatus spp. have differing life histories, with G. typus longer lived, slower growing and attaining a larger maximum size.
Effects of biofouling on performance of moored data logging acoustic receivers
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2008
A surveillance study to determine the accuracy of mild traumatic brain injury diagnosis in an emergency department
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2017-016222
Abstract: Previous literature confirms that a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) may result in long-term emotional impacts and, in vulnerable subgroups, cognitive deficits. The accurate diagnosis of mTBI and its written documentation is an important first step towards providing appropriate and timely clinical care. Surveillance studies involving emergency department (ED) and hospital-based data need to be prioritised as these provide incident mTBI estimates. This project will advance existing research findings by estimating the occurrence of mTBI among those attending an ED and quantifying the accuracy of mTBI diagnoses recorded by ED staff through a comprehensive audit of ED records. Retrospective chart reviews (between June 2015 and June 2016) of electronic clinical records from an ED in Sydney (New South Wales, Australia) will be conducted. The study population will include persons aged 18–65 years who attended the ED with any clinical features potentially indicative of mTBI. The WHO operational criteria for the clinical identification of mTBI cases is the presence of: (1) a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 13–15 after 30 min postinjury or on presentation to hospital (2) one or more of the following: post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) of less than 24 hours’ duration, confusion or disorientation, a witnessed loss of consciousness for ≤30 min and/or a positive CT brain scan. We estimate that 30 000 ED attendances will be screened and that a s le size of 500 cases with mTBI will be identified during this 1-year period, which will provide reliable estimates of mTBI occurrence in the ED setting. The study was approved by the Northern Sydney Local Health District Ethics Committee. The committee deemed this study as low risk in terms of ethical issues. The written papers from this study will be submitted for publication in quality peer-reviewed medical and health journals. Study findings will be disseminated via presentations at national/international conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
Ecology: The Upside-Down World of Coral Reef Predators
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.CUB.2016.05.074
Abstract: Examination of a large aggregation of sharks demonstrates that trophic pyramids with greater amounts of high-level predators than prey can occur on coral reefs. This is possible because the high-level predators obtain food from sources outside their home location.
A standardised framework for analysing animal detections from automated tracking arrays
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2018
Intimate partner violence and child outcomes at age 10: a pregnancy cohort
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 21-04-2021
DOI: 10.1136/ARCHDISCHILD-2020-320321
Abstract: Assess the mental health, physical health, cognitive and language development of 10-year old children in families where mothers have reported intimate partner violence (IPV) compared with children with no reported IPV exposure. Prospective pregnancy cohort. Maternal report of IPV (Composite Abuse Scale) at 1, 4 and 10 years. Maternal and direct assessment of child mental health (probable psychiatric diagnosis, anxiety and emotional/behavioural difficulties), cognition (IQ and executive function), language (general, pragmatic and receptive) and physical health at 10 years. A subs le of 615 mother–child dyads drawn from a pregnancy cohort of 1507 nulliparous women recruited from six public hospitals in Melbourne, Australia. Any IPV exposure from infancy to age 10 was associated with poorer child outcomes at age 10. Specifically, twice the odds of a probable psychiatric diagnosis, emotional/behavioural difficulties, impaired language skills (general and pragmatic), and having consulted a health professional about asthma or sleep problems. IPV exposure at age 10 associated with two to three times higher odds of all mental health outcomes, elevated blood pressure and sleep problems. Early life exposure alone (at 1 and/or 4 years) associated with three times higher odds of a general language problem and asthma at age 10. The high prevalence of IPV and increased risk of poorer health and development among children exposed highlights the burden of ill health carried by children in families experiencing IPV. Fewer difficulties where exposure was limited to the early years builds the case for better identification, understanding and resourcing of effective early intervention.
To roam or to home: Site fidelity in a tropical coastal shark
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-05-2012
Estuarine nursery areas provide a low-mortality environment for young bull sharks Carcharhinus leucas
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 18-07-2011
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS09191
Future Directions in the Research and Management of Marine Snakes
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 06-11-2018
Inferring movement patterns of a coral reef fish using oxygen and carbon isotopes in otolith carbonate
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2014
Are we underestimating elasmobranch abundances on baited remote underwater video systems (BRUVS) using traditional metrics?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
A neuro-cardiac self-regulation therapy to improve autonomic and neural function after SCI: a randomized controlled trial protocol
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-08-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12883-021-02355-W
Abstract: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with autonomic imbalance and significant secondary conditions, including cardiac and brain dysfunction that adversely impact health and wellbeing. This study will investigate the effectiveness (intention-to-treat) of a neuro-cardiac self-regulation therapy to improve autonomic and neural/brain activity in adults with SCI living in the community. A two-arm parallel, randomised controlled trial in which adults with SCI living in the community post-rehabilitation will be randomly assigned to a treatment or control group. The treatment group ( N = 60) aged 18–70 years with a chronic traumatic or non-traumatic SCI, will receive intervention sessions once per week for 10 weeks, designed to regulate autonomic activity using computer-based feedback of heart rate variability and controlled breathing (called HRV-F). Comprehensive neurophysiological and psychological assessment will occur at baseline, immediate post-treatment, and 6 and 12-months post-treatment. Primary outcome measures include electrocardiography/heart rate variability (to assess autonomic nervous system function) and transcranial doppler sonography (to assess cerebral blood circulation in basal cerebral arteries). Secondary outcomes measures include continuous blood pressure, electroencephalography, functional near-infrared spectroscopy, respiration/breath rate, electrooculography, cognitive capacity, psychological status, pain, fatigue, sleep and quality of life. Controls ( N = 60) will receive usual community care, reading material and a brief telephone call once per week for 10 weeks and be similarly assessed over the same time period as the HRV-F group. Linear mixed model analysis with repeated measures will determine effectiveness of HRV-F and latent class mixture modelling used to determine trajectories for primary and selected secondary outcomes of interest. Treatments for improving autonomic function after SCI are limited. It is therefore important to establish whether a neuro-cardiac self-regulation therapy can result in improved autonomic functioning post-SCI, as well as whether HRV-F is associated with better outcomes for secondary conditions such as cardiovascular health, cognitive capacity and mental health. The study has been prospectively registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ( ACTRN12621000870853 .aspx). Date of Registration: 6th July 2021. Trial Sponsor: The University of Sydney, NSW 2006. Protocol version: 22/07/2021.
Movement patterns and habitat use of juvenile mangrove whiprays (Himantura granulata)
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1071/MF14028
Abstract: Understanding the extent of movements and space use of animals is necessary to identify vital habitats and better conserve and manage vulnerable species. We used acoustic telemetry to examine movement patterns and habitat use of juvenile mangrove whiprays (Himantura granulata) in an intertidal bay at Orpheus Island, Australia. Thirteen juveniles were acoustically monitored between March and December 2012, and in July 2012, four active tracks were completed. The majority of the acoustically monitored rays remained within the intertidal bay for the entire monitoring period. Tidal changes caused rays to move from the inner-bay mangrove (high tide) habitat to coral reef in the outer bay (low tide). Actively tracked rays moved in a directed way during running tides, remaining in shallow water. During periods of high and low tide, when rays refuged in mangrove or reef habitats, movement was limited and sinuosity was high. In mangrove areas, rays were most commonly observed refuging under or close to mangrove roots, and rarely in open sand areas. Refuging behaviour in mangrove and reef habitats suggested that predation risk may be the predominant factor influencing the movement of small rays. The continuous use of intertidal habitats demonstrates their importance to Himantura granulata.
Science or slaughter: Need for lethal sampling of sharks
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-03-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1523-1739.2010.01491.X
Abstract: General consensus among scientists, commercial interests, and the public regarding the status of shark populations is leading to an increasing need for the scientific community to provide information to help guide effective management and conservation actions. Experience from other marine vertebrate taxa suggests that public, political, and media pressures will play an increasingly important part in setting research, management, and conservation priorities. We examined the potential implications of nonscientific influences on shark research. In particular, we considered whether lethal research s ling of sharks is justified. Although lethal s ling comes at a cost to a population, especially for threatened species, the conservation benefits from well-designed studies provide essential data that cannot be collected currently in any other way. Methods that enable nonlethal collection of life-history data on sharks are being developed (e.g., use of blood s les to detect maturity), but in the near future they will not provide widespread or significant benefits. Development of these techniques needs to continue, as does the way in which scientists coordinate their use of material collected during lethal s ling. For almost half of the known shark species there are insufficient data to determine their population status thus, there is an ongoing need for further collection of scientific data to ensure all shark populations have a future. Shark populations will benefit most when decisions about the use of lethal s ling are made on the basis of scientific evidence that is free from in idual, political, public, and media pressures.
Residence and movement patterns of cownose rays Rhinoptera bonasus within a south‐west Florida estuary
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2007
Assessing environmental correlates of fish movement on a coral reef
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-06-2015
Nearshore movement ecology of a medium-bodied shark, the creek whaler Carcharhinus fitzroyensis
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-04-2015
Increased connectivity and depth improve the effectiveness of marine reserves
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/GCB.15635
Abstract: Marine reserves are a key tool for the conservation of marine bio ersity, yet only ~2.5% of the world's oceans are protected. The integration of marine reserves into connected networks representing all habitats has been encouraged by international agreements, yet the benefits of this design has not been tested empirically. Australia has one of the largest systems of marine reserves, providing a rare opportunity to assess how connectivity influences conservation success. An Australia‐wide dataset was collected using baited remote underwater video systems deployed across a depth range from 0 to 100 m to assess the effectiveness of marine reserves for protecting teleosts subject to commercial and recreational fishing. A meta‐analytical comparison of 73 fished species within 91 marine reserves found that, on average, marine reserves had 28% greater abundance and 53% greater biomass of fished species compared to adjacent areas open to fishing. However, benefits of protection were not observed across all reserves (heterogeneity), so full subsets generalized additive modelling was used to consider factors that influence marine reserve effectiveness, including distance‐based and ecological metrics of connectivity among reserves. Our results suggest that increased connectivity and depth improve the aforementioned marine reserve benefits and that these factors should be considered to optimize such benefits over time. We provide important guidance on factors to consider when implementing marine reserves for the purpose of increasing the abundance and size of fished species, given the expected increase in coverage globally. We show that marine reserves that are highly protected (no‐take) and designed to optimize connectivity, size and depth range can provide an effective conservation strategy for fished species in temperate and tropical waters within an overarching marine bio ersity conservation framework.
A product of its environment: the epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) exhibits physiological tolerance to elevated environmental CO2
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 15-10-2014
Consistent movement traits indicative of innate behavior in neonate sharks
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2012
Abstract
Publisher: eLife Sciences Publications, Ltd
Date: 2014
Diversity in young shark habitats provides the potential for portfolio effects
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 03-07-2012
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS09759
The occurrence, distribution and pathology associated with gnathiid isopod larvae infecting the epaulette shark, Hemiscyllium ocellatum
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-1999
DOI: 10.1016/S0020-7519(98)00218-5
Abstract: Gnathiid isopod praniza larvae were found to infect the epaulette shark Hemiscyllium ocellatum. All sharks carried larvae on their external body surface, with the preferred attachment site in both sexes around the cloaca (P<0.05). The claspers were the second site of preference in male sharks. Within the buccal and branchial cavities, about 16% of larvae were attached to the roof and floor of the mouth and 84% attached to the gills. A significant positive correlation existed between larval number and fish size. Histological examination showed that larval attachment in the buccal cavity elicited variable responses, the most severe being a loss of epithelium and compression of underlying tissue. No host cellular response or tissue proliferation was observed. Praniza attached preferentially to the efferent side of gill filaments (relative to blood flow), and caused loss of epithelium, compression of tissue, and a small amount of connective tissue proliferation. Attachment to the gill septum or to the afferent side of the gill filament caused lamellar disruption, a cellular inflammatory response, and connective tissue proliferation. Scanning electron microscopy showed little obvious praniza-induced gill damage, other than localised tissue distortion to form "pockets" around larvae attached between filaments. The results suggest that praniza larvae do not cause sufficient tissue damage to adversely affect the health of this shark species.
Wet-season effects on the distribution of juvenile pigeye sharks, Carcharhinus amboinensis, in tropical nearshore waters
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1071/MF10136
Abstract: Tropical nearshore environments are highly dynamic systems owing to extreme freshwater flow and flooding episodes that occur in wet-season months. We hypothesised that juvenile sharks in tropical nearshore waters respond to seasonal freshwater inflow by moving away from areas of strong flow. An array of fifty-eight acoustic receivers deployed in Cleveland Bay, north Queensland, Australia, passively tracked thirty-two juvenile pigeye sharks, Carcharhinus amboinensis, throughout two wet seasons from 2008 to 2010. Influences associated with wet seasons appeared to play a role in habitat use by juvenile C. amboinensis in this region. Home ranges and distribution of in iduals showed distinct changes, with in iduals moving north away from sources of freshwater inflow during high flows. The location of in iduals within the bay was strongly influenced by freshwater inflow in both years. Although juvenile C. amboinensis moved in response to freshwater inflow, home-range sizes remained stable, and the amount of space in iduals used did not change in relation to freshwater inflow. By defining the response of juvenile sharks to highly variable freshwater flow events, this research provides useful information for understanding species behaviour in a dynamic and changing climate, and contributes towards effective management of tropical river systems.
Trophodynamics as a tool for understanding coral reef ecosystems
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 06-02-2018
Effects of fishing on tropical reef associated shark populations on the Great Barrier Reef
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2009
Visualising Patterns in Women’s Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence in the First 10 years of Motherhood
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1177/08862605221104518
Abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) can involve patterns of physical, sexual and emotional abuse. Women typically experience physical IPV in combination with emotional IPV, while emotional IPV is often experienced in the absence of other types of IPV. There is very little known about women’s experiences of these different types of IPV over time. The primary aim of this paper is to describe patterns in women’s in idual experiences of physical and/or emotional IPV across the first 10 years of motherhood. Data were drawn from a prospective pregnancy cohort of 1507 first-time mothers in Melbourne, Australia. Emotional, physical, and combined physical and emotional IPV were reported in the first, fourth and tenth year of motherhood using the Composite Abuse Scale. The overall prevalence of each type of IPV remained consistent across the three time-points, with emotional IPV alone being the most prevalent. There was substantial variability in women’s experiences of IPV over time and there was no common progression from one type of IPV to another. Women were more likely to report IPV at more than one time-point if they experienced combined physical and emotional IPV, while for women who reported emotional or physical IPV alone this was more likely to be at a single time-point. A number of socio-demographic characteristics in early pregnancy were associated with a higher risk of reporting IPV at all three time-points, including being unemployed (RRR = 3.6 95% CI: 2.1, 6.2) and being aged 18–24 years (RRR = 3.1 95% CI: 1.8, 5.4). Knowledge of the variability and persistence of IPV in the first 10 years of motherhood, and factors associated with these experiences, can help tailor effective health and social service responses.
Diel patterns in three-dimensional use of space by sea snakes
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-09-2015
Contrasting patterns of vertical and horizontal space use of two exploited and sympatric coral reef fish
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-11-2016
Ghosts in the data: false detections in VEMCO pulse position modulation acoustic telemetry monitoring equipment
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Sharks in nearshore environments: Models, importance, and consequences
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 08-03-2010
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS08498
How does marker choice affect your diet analysis: Comparing genetic markers and digestion levels for diet metabarcoding of tropical-reef piscivores
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1071/MF17209
Abstract: Tropical reefs are highly erse ecosystems, and reliable biomonitoring, through diet metabarcoding, is needed to understand present and future trophic relationships in this changing habitat. Several studies have assessed the reliability and effectiveness of single molecular markers however, a cross-marker validation has rarely been performed. This study identified crucial properties for 12S rDNA, 16S rDNA and COI metabarcoding in tropical-reef piscivores (Plectropomus spp.). In addition, three new versatile primer sets for 16S were designed in silico for metabarcoding of reef fish. Results showed that COI was overall better at recovering true ersity because of a well-supported database. Second, optimal 16S licon sizes ranged between 160 and 440 base pairs for full ersity recovery, with increased species detection for the 270-base pairs region. Finally, blocking of predator-specific COI sequences was not equally effective in all host species, potentially introducing bias when diet compositions are directly compared. In conclusion, this novel study showed that marker success for prey identification is highly dependent on the reference database, taxonomic scope, DNA quality, licon length and sequencing platform. Results suggest that COI, complemented with 16S, yields the best outcome for diet metabarcoding in reef piscivores. Findings in this paper are relevant to other piscivores and other metabarcoding applications.
Evidence of Melanoma in Wild Marine Fish Populations
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 08-2012
Three-dimensional kernel utilization distributions improve estimates of space use in aquatic animals
Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing
Date: 03-2012
DOI: 10.1139/F2011-179
Abstract: Tracking data have previously been used to define animal movement patterns through two-dimensional (2D) kernel utilization distributions and separate analysis of vertical locations. Here we describe the use of three-dimensional (3D) kernel utilization distributions to estimate the volumetric space use of in iduals based on tracking data and to estimate the overlap in activity space between in iduals. Data from European eels ( Anguilla anguilla ) from Norwegian coastal waters were used to compare the information conveyed by 2D and 3D activity space estimates and the utility of this approach for aquatic species. The use of 3D kernels produced detailed representations of space use in A. anguilla that permitted examination of depth use in a geographic context. Comparison of 2D and 3D home ranges showed that 2D analyses overestimated the amount of overlap between in iduals by 13%–20%, because in iduals sometimes occurred in the same location but used different depths. Hence, the 3D approach provided more comprehensive representations of animal movement in three dimensions while producing a metric that can be used for testing hypotheses relating to scientific descriptions of activity space, habitat use, and movement parameters.
Movements of bonnetheads, Sphyrna tiburo, as a response to salinity change in a Florida estuary
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-12-2009
Benefits of marine protected areas for tropical coastal sharks
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-12-2016
DOI: 10.1002/AQC.2616
Large-scale movement and reef fidelity of grey reef sharks
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 10-03-2010
Population organisation in reef sharks: new variations in coastal habitat use by mobile marine predators
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 18-02-2016
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS11545
Quantitative analysis of aggregation behavior in juvenile blacktip sharks
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-06-2005
Evidence of behavioural thermoregulation by dugongs at the high latitude limit to their range in eastern Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
Microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA analyses of the genetic structure of blacktip shark (Carcharhinus limbatus) nurseries in the northwestern Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-05-2005
Hard prey specialists or opportunistic generalists? An examination of the diet of the cownose ray, Rhinoptera bonasus
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1071/MF05227
Abstract: Atlantic cownose rays (Rhinoptera bonasus) are benthic, suction feeders whose foraging activities have been implicated in severe damage to commercial shellfish industries. With jaws highly modified for durophagy, it has been assumed that R. bonasus are crushing specialists that feed primarily upon hard molluscan prey. Stomach contents from R. bonasus caught within Florida’s Charlotte Harbor estuary between July 2003 and July 2004 were analysed using the index of relative importance (IRI) to determine most important prey types. Prey items were identified from 38 families and fell into nine distinctive groups. The three most dominant prey groups were crustaceans (%IRI = 55.31), polychaetes (%IRI = 25.20) and bivalves (%IRI = 12.58). Shoalmates had more similar diets than non-shoalmates, suggesting group feeding. Most small or softer-bodied prey consumed were relatively intact, indicating lack of prey processing and capture through suction feeding. All larger, harder-bodied prey showed evidence of crushing (fractured and broken shells). Although R. bonasus has been characterised as a hard prey specialist, these results suggest it may behave as an opportunistic generalist, modifying feeding behaviour to consume readily available prey.
Sedentary or mobile? Variability in space and depth use of an exploited coral reef fish
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-07-2014
Latitudinal and seasonal variation in space use by a large, predatory reef fish, Plectropomus leopardus
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-01-2019
Variation in the performance of acoustic receivers and its implication for positioning algorithms in a riverine setting
Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing
Date: 03-2008
DOI: 10.1139/F07-180
Abstract: The performance of an array of data-logging single frequency acoustic receivers in the Caloosahatchee River (Florida, USA) was examined and the results incorporated into a positioning algorithm for animals tracked within the system. The mean code detection efficiency across all in idual receivers and all download periods was 0.414 detections per synchronization code. On average, the code rejection coefficient was approximately 4%, indicating that it was only a minor factor in reducing code detection efficiency. There were significant performance differences between stations and download periods, but no interaction between these two factors for all three metrics. Code detection efficiency, the rejection coefficient, and the noise quotient all showed significant variations with distance from the river mouth and time since deployment. Comparison of position estimates with and without efficiency produced small differences for bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) and cownose rays (Rhinoptera bonasus) monitored via this system. Root mean square errors were higher for cownose rays (48 m) than for bull sharks (23 m). Mean differences for in iduals were always slightly downstream because of the increasing code detection efficiency of upriver receivers. The results of this comparison indicated that the inclusion of code detection efficiency did not significantly improve the results of the positioning algorithm.
Potential of a no‐take marine reserve to protect home ranges of anadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta)
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-12-2018
DOI: 10.1002/ECE3.4760
Environmental influences on the spatial ecology of juvenile smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata): Results from acoustic monitoring
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 11-02-2011
Application of the Acoustic Propagation Model to a deep‐water cross‐shelf curtain
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-06-2017
First record of sea snake (Hydrophis elegans, Hydrophiinae) entrapped in marine debris
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.MARPOLBUL.2013.06.023
Abstract: Entanglement in derelict fishing gear and other marine debris is a major threat to the survival of large marine wildlife like cetaceans, seabirds and sea turtles. However, no previous reports of entanglement or entrapment have been recorded in sea snakes (Hydrophiinae). We report here on a sea snake (Hydrophis elegans) found with a ceramic washer encircling its body captured from the north-east coast of Queensland, Australia. The ring had constricted the body and over time caused extensive damage to the underlying tissues. A post-mortem examination showed the snake was severely emaciated as the ring restricted the passage of food to the stomach and intestine. This is the first record of mortality due to marine debris entrapment in sea snakes.
Spatial ecology of shark-like batoids in a large coastal embayment
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-09-2014
Harvest selection on Atlantic cod behavioral traits: implications for spatial management
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-06-2012
DOI: 10.1002/ECE3.244
Long-term presence and movement patterns of juvenile bull sharks, Carcharhinus leucas, in an estuarine river system
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1071/MF09019
Abstract: Elasmobranchs living in rivers and estuaries may be highly susceptible to environmental and anthropogenic changes to coastal habitats. To address this, patterns of movement of 67 juvenile bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) were examined in the Caloosahatchee River between 2003 and 2006 using an array of 25 acoustic receivers. In iduals were monitored for periods of 1–460 days with most present for periods of weeks to months. In iduals utilised the entire monitored section of the river (~27 km) and also moved upriver beyond the extent of the acoustic array. Daily activity spaces of in iduals ranged from 0 to 14 km with most km. Monthly mean home ranges were 0.9–5.6 km and although home-range sizes were consistent through time, location of in iduals within the river changed through time. In iduals moved upstream during the day and downstream at night and this pattern persisted across years. Based on data collected from depth transmitters in 2006, in iduals swam closer to the surface at night and remained in deeper water during the day, suggesting further diurnal patterns in habitat use. Long-term consistent use of this habitat by young C. leucas suggests this population is highly dependent on the Caloosahatchee River as a nursery area.
Using acoustic monitoring to evaluate MPAs for shark nursery areas: The importance of long-term data
Publisher: Marine Technology Society
Date: 03-2005
DOI: 10.4031/002533205787521749
Abstract: The presence and movements of a population of young blacktip sharks ( Carcharhinus limbatus ) was monitored via a series of acoustic hydrophones over a period of three years to examine their use of a coastal nursery area. Data from this project were used to investigate the efficacy of hypothetical marine protected areas for this population. Small and large reserve designs were used to determine which would provide better protection for this population. The small reserve provided consistent levels of protection across years with sharks receiving good protection early in the summer season, but with declining protection thereafter. The large reserve provided less consistent levels of protection across years, but provided protection for a greater portion of time than the small reserve. Excursions from the small reserve were high early in the season and declined as sharks used this region less through the later portion of the summer. Excursions from the large reserve did not show any consistent pattern, but were also high early in the season and decreased through time as sharks used less of the reserve area. These results, coupled with previously calculated mortality estimates, revealed that the large reserve provided better protection for young sharks during their most vulnerable period within the nursery. We suggest that time-area closures for nursery populations of highly mobile shark species may be of value. Results of this study also show that long-term data may be critical to effective reserve design and placement, and assessment of reserve efficacy.
Short-term movement of barramundi in a seasonally closed freshwater habitat
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 28-04-2011
DOI: 10.3354/AB00332
Maternal meddling in neonatal sharks: implications for interpreting stable isotopes in young animals
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-03-2011
DOI: 10.1002/RCM.4946
Abstract: Stable isotopes of neonatal vertebrates reflect those of their mother's diet and foraging location. Evaluating feeding strategies and habitat use of neonates is consequently complicated by the maternal isotopic signal and its subsequent elimination with growth. Thus, methods that measure the loss of the maternal signal, i.e. when the isotopic signal of a neonate reflects its own diet, are needed. Values of δ(13)C and δ(15)N were measured in liver and muscle tissues of 1 year old, which remain in nursery habitats, increase the variability of the isotopic values. Consideration of the maternal signal and measuring its loss are thus necessary when analyzing the stable isotopes of young animals, as there is potential to misinterpret feeding strategies, over-estimate trophic position and incorrectly assign carbon source.
Importance of prey density in relation to the movement patterns of juvenile blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus) within a coastal nursery area
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2002
DOI: 10.1071/MF01132
Abstract: Previous research suggests that nursery areas provide an abundant food source as well as protection from predation for young sharks, and that these benefits are the reasons they use these areas. This study examined the abundance of prey species within a known nursery area, Terra Ceia Bay, Florida, and compared those data with the amount of time blacktip sharks spent within various geographic zones within the nursery. The most abundant prey species within the study site were pinfish, Lagodon rhomboides, pigfish, Orthopristis chrysoptera, spotfin mojarra, Eucinostomus argenteus, and silver perch, Bairdiella chrysoura. Prey species were found to be most abundant in the mid to southern portion of the nursery area, whereas sharks spent the majority of their time within the northern portion of the study site. There was no correlation between the amount of time sharks (as a whole and by in idual) spent within a geographic zone and the abundance of prey species within that area. These results suggest that prey abundance is not the main factor directing the movement patterns and habitat choice of juvenile Carcharhinus limbatus within Terra Ceia Bay. Predator avoidance may be more important in the use of the nursery grounds by these young animals than prey abundance.
Biological and environmental effects on activity space of a common reef shark on an inshore reef
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 17-05-2017
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS12107
Ontogenetic movements of juvenile blacktip reef sharks: Evidence of dispersal and connectivity between coastal habitats and coral reefs
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-04-2013
DOI: 10.1002/AQC.2349
Exploring movement patterns of an exploited coral reef fish when tagging data are limited
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 29-04-2010
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS08527
Molecular changes in skin pigmented lesions of the coral trout Plectropomus leopardus
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MARENVRES.2016.07.009
Abstract: A high prevalence of skin pigmented lesions of 15% was recently reported in coral trout Plectropomus leopardus, a commercially important marine fish, inhabiting the Great Barrier Reef. Herein, fish were s led at two offshore sites, characterised by high and low lesion prevalence. A transcriptomic approach using the suppressive subtractive hybridisation (SSH) method was used to analyse the differentially expressed genes between lesion and normal skin s les. Transcriptional changes of 14 genes were observed in lesion s les relative to normal skin s les. These targeted genes encoded for specific proteins which are involved in general cell function but also in different stages disrupted during the tumourigenesis process of other organisms, such as cell cycling, cell proliferation, skeletal organisation and cell migration. The results highlight transcripts that are associated with the lesion occurrence, contributing to a better understanding of the molecular aetiology of this coral trout skin disease.
Regional movement patterns of a small-bodied shark revealed by stable-isotope analysis
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-04-2015
DOI: 10.1111/JFB.12660
Abstract: This study used stable-isotope analysis to define the nearshore regional residency and movements of the small-bodied Australian sharpnose shark Rhizoprionodon taylori. Plasma and muscle δ(13) C and δ(15) N of R. taylori were collected from across five embayments and compared with values of seagrass and plankton from each bay. Linear distances between adjacent bays ranged from 30 to 150 km. There was a positive geographic correlation between R. taylori tissue and environmental δ(13) C values. Populations with the highest tissue δ(15) N were collected from bays that had the highest environmental δ(15) N values. These results suggest that R. taylori did not forage more than 100 km away from their capture location within 6 months to 1 year. The successful application of isotope analysis to define R. taylori movement demonstrates that this technique may be used in addition to traditional methods to study the movement of sharks, even within similar habitats across regionally small spatial scales (<100 km).
Movement patterns of two carangid species in inshore habitats characterised using network analysis
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 14-07-2016
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS11777
Running before the storm: Blacktip sharks respond to falling barometric pressure associated with Tropical Storm Gabrielle
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2003
Pulse rate variability: An alternative to heart rate variability in adults with spinal cord injury
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-06-2023
DOI: 10.1111/PSYP.14356
Abstract: Pulse rate variability (PRV) is often used as an alternative to heart rate variability (HRV) to measure psychophysiological function. However, its validity to do so is unclear, especially in adults with spinal cord injury (SCI). This study compared PRV and HRV in adults with higher‐level SCI (SCI‐H, n = 23), lower‐level SCI (SCI‐L, n = 22), and able‐bodied participants (AB n = 44), in a seated position as a function of performance in a reactivity task (Oxford Sleep Resistance Test: OSLER). PRV and HRV was measured using reflective finger‐based photoplethysmography (PPG) and electrocardiography, respectively, at baseline, immediately post‐OSLER, and after five‐minute recovery. Agreement between PRV and HRV was determined by Bland–Altman analysis and differences between PRV and HRV over time by linear mixed effects model (LMM) analysis. Concurrent validity was assessed through correlation analyses between PRV and HRV. Additional correlation analyses were performed with psychosocial factors. Results indicated insufficient to moderate agreement between PRV and HRV. LMM analyses indicated no differences over time for standard deviation of normal‐to‐normal intervals and low‐frequency power but significant differences for root mean square of successive differences and high frequency power. Nevertheless, PRV and HRV were highly correlated (Median r = .878 (.675–.990)) during all assessment periods suggesting sufficient concurrent validity. Similar correlation patterns were also found for PRV and HRV with psychosocial outcomes. While differences existed, results suggest PRV derived from reflective finger‐based PPG is a valid proxy of HRV in tracking psychophysiological function in adults with SCI and could therefore be used as a more accessible monitoring tool.
Advances in understanding the roles and benefits of nursery areas for elasmobranch populations
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1071/MF18081
Abstract: Nursery areas are critical to the survival of many marine species, and it is widely accepted that elasmobranch species use nursery areas where they improve species fitness. A 2007 review proposed an approach to identify elasmobranch nursery areas to help clarify their location and use. Here we examine progress towards defining elasmobranch nurseries in the intervening ≥10 years. Many studies have used these criteria, and some have tested their effectiveness, but it is apparent that there is still much to learn. Our current understanding of elasmobranch nurseries is biased towards tropical coastal shark species with few studies of temperate, pelagic, deep-water or batoid species. Recent research has used the criteria to more accurately identify nursery areas, determine that some species may not use them and, at times, improve conservation and management. Results are also revealing that some areas considered to be nurseries do not meet the criteria. Although we have learned a great deal about the location and use of elasmobranch nurseries, there are still several questions to be answered and species to be considered. Continued application of nursery criteria and improved knowledge of nursery areas will lead to improved conservation and management systems.
Movements and space use of giant trevally in coral reef habitats and the importance of environmental drivers
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-2015
Quantifying shark distribution patterns and species-habitat associations: Implications of Marine Park zoning
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 10-09-2014
Ecological drivers of shark distributions along a tropical coastline
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 08-04-2015
Cognitive Reserve and Its Association with Cognitive and Mental Health Status following an Acute Spinal Cord Injury
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-06-2023
DOI: 10.3390/JCM12134258
Abstract: Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a common secondary condition associated with spinal cord injury (SCI). Cognitive reserve (CR) is believed to protect against cognitive decline and can be assessed by premorbid intelligence (pmIQ). Despite the potential utility of pmIQ as a complementary metric in the evaluation of MCI in SCI, this approach has been infrequently employed. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between MCI and pmIQ in adults with SCI with the aim of exploring the potential value of pmIQ as a marker of CR in this population. Methods: Cognitive function was assessed on three occasions in adults with SCI over a 12-month period post-injury, and pmIQ was assessed once at baseline. Demographic and mental health measures were also collected, and logistic regression was conducted to determine the strength of association between pmIQ and MCI while adjusting for factors such as mental health and age. Results: The regression analysis revealed that at the time of admission to SCI rehabilitation, the MCI assessed by a valid neurocognitive screen was strongly associated with pmIQ. That is, if a person has MCI, there was 5.4 greater odds (p 0.01) that they will have poor pmIQ compared to a person without MCI after adjustment for age and mental health. Conclusions: The assessment of CR is an important area that should be considered to improve the process of diagnosing MCI in adults with an acute SCI and potentially facilitate earlier intervention to slow or prevent cognitive decline.
Sympathy for the devil: a conservation strategy for devil and manta rays
Publisher: PeerJ
Date: 14-03-2017
DOI: 10.7717/PEERJ.3027
Abstract: International trade for luxury products, medicines, and tonics poses a threat to both terrestrial and marine wildlife. The demand for and consumption of gill plates (known as Peng Yu Sai , “Fish Gill of Mobulid Ray”) from devil and manta rays (subfamily Mobulinae, collectively referred to as mobulids) poses a significant threat to these marine fishes because of their extremely low productivity. The demand for these gill plates has driven an international trade supplied by largely unmonitored and unregulated catches from target and incidental fisheries around the world. Scientific research, conservation c aigns, and legal protections for devil rays have lagged behind those for manta rays despite similar threats across all mobulids. To investigate the difference in attention given to devil rays and manta rays, we examined trends in the scientific literature and updated species distribution maps for all mobulids. Using available information on target and incidental fisheries, and gathering information on fishing and trade regulations (at international, national, and territorial levels), we examined how threats and protective measures overlap with species distribution. We then used a species conservation planning approach to develop the Global Devil and Manta Ray Conservation Strategy, specifying a vision, goals, objectives, and actions to advance the knowledge and protection of both devil and manta rays. Our literature review revealed that there had been nearly 2.5-times more “manta”-titled publications, than “mobula” or “devil ray”-titled publications over the past 4.5 years (January 2012–June 2016). The majority of these recent publications were reports on occurrence of mobulid species. These publications contributed to updated Area of Occupancy and Extent of Occurrence maps which showed expanded distributions for most mobulid species and overlap between the two genera. While several international protections have recently expanded to include all mobulids, there remains a greater number of national, state, and territory-level protections for manta rays compared to devil rays. We hypothesize that there are fewer scientific publications and regulatory protections for devil rays due primarily to perceptions of charisma that favour manta rays. We suggest that the well-established species conservation framework used here offers an objective solution to close this gap. To advance the goals of the conservation strategy we highlight opportunities for parity in protection and suggest solutions to help reduce target and bycatch fisheries.
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