Digital Commons Network^™

Tradeoffs In Community Properties Through Time In A Desert Rodent Community, Ethan P. White, S.K. Morgan Ernest, K. M. Thibault

Biology Faculty Publications

Resource limitation represents an important constraint on ecological communities, which restricts the total abundance, biomass, and community energy flux a given community can support. However, the exact relationship among these three measures of biological activity remains unclear. Here we use a simple framework that links abundance and biomass with an energetic constraint. Under constant energetic availability, it is expected that changes in abundance and biomass can result from shifts in the distribution of individual masses. We test these predictions using long-term data from a desert rodent community. Total energy use for the community has not changed directionally for 25 years, …

Two-Phase Species-Time Relationships In North American Land Birds, Ethan P. White

Biology Faculty Publications

The species-time relationship (STR) is a macroecological pattern describing the increase in the observed species richness with the length of time censused. Understanding STRs is important for understanding the ecological processes underlying temporal turnover and species richness. However, accurate characterization of the STR has been hampered by the influence of sampling. I analyzed species-time relationships for 521 breeding bird survey communities. I used a model of sampling effects to demonstrate that the increase in richness was not due exclusively to sampling. I estimated the time scale at which ecological processes became dominant over sampling effects using a two-phase model combining …

Temporal Dynamics In The Structure Andcomposition Of A Desert Rodent Community, K. M. Thibault, Ethan P. White, S.K. Morgan Ernest

Biology Faculty Publications

The rank-abundance distribution (RAD) represents the manner in which species divide resources. Community-specific division rules that determine resource allocation among species, and thereby the shape of the RAD, have been hypothesized to account for observed stability of local species richness over time. While the shape of the RAD has been well studied, the temporal dynamics of this distribution have received much less attention. Here we assess changes in the shape of the RAD through time in a desert rodent community in Arizona (USA). Because energy use may be more appropriate for studying resource division than abundance, we also evaluate an …

Similarities In Body Size Distributions Of Small-Bodied Flyingvertebrates, B. A. Maurer, J. Alroy, J. H. Brown, T. Dayan, B. Enquist, S.K. Morgan Ernest, E. Hadly, J. P. Haskell, D. Jablonski, K. E. Jones, D. M. Kaufman, K. Lyons, K. Niklas, W. Porter, K. Roy, F. A. Smith, B. Tiffney, M. R. Willig

Biology Faculty Publications

Since flight imposes physical constraints on the attributes of a flying organism, it is expected that the distribution of body sizes within clades of small-bodied flying vertebrates should share a similar pattern that reflects these constraints. We examined patterns in similarities of body mass distributions among five clades of small-bodied endothermic vertebrates (Passeriformes, Apodiformes + Trochiliformes, Chiroptera, Insectivora, Rodentia) to examine the extent to which these distributions are congruent among the clades that fly as opposed to those that do not fly. The body mass distributions of three clades of small-bodied flying vertebrates show significant divergence from the distributions of …

Software For Optimizing International Water Resources Management, Richard C. Peralta, S. Wu

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

The Simulation/Optimization MOdeling System (SOMOS) has modules adapted for a range of international water resource management needs. The SOMOA module is best for field groundwater and conjunctive water management situations. It employs several analytical simulation models and several optimization methods to give appropriate optimal guidance for situations having sparse data. SOMOA requires understanding of the limitations of common analytical equations. It does not require experience in finite difference or element numerical modeling. SOMOS also has modules ideal for situations in which there is sufficient data for numerical modeling or aquifer and stream-aquifer systems. Emphasized here are SOMOA and its applications …

Multi-Objective Conjunctive Use Optimization, H. C. Fayad, Richard C. Peralta

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

This paper presents a simulation/optimization model based on artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms for solving multi-objective conjunctive water use problems. The model simulates and optimizes water flows in a hydraulically connected reservoir-stream-aquifer system. It is a powerful tool to help water managers and authorities in developing conjunctive water management strategies and evaluating tradeoffs between conflicting goals.

Optimization Modeling For Groundwater And Conjunctive Use Water Policy Development, Richard C. Peralta, R. Shulstad

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

Planners must sometimes decide how to restrict or reduce groundwater use to prevent unacceptable future problems. Often there are several alternatives (policies). Comparing policies can involve formulating a sustained groundwater yield optimization problem and computing an optimal groundwater pumping strategy for each. This is easy via the SOMOS simulation/optimization (S/O) model. Subsequent analysis can include: flow simulation to predict transient water level response to pumping; and economic evaluation to estimate costs and returns. Two examples predict the best consequences of potential physical and legal management policies for alluvial and valley basin fill aquifers hydraulically linked to surface waters. Results show …

Topical Cidofovir Is More Effective Than Is Parenteral Therapy For Treatment Of Progressive Vaccinia In Immunocompromised Mice, Donald F. Smee, K. W. Bailey, M-H. Wong, M. K. Wandersee, R. W. Sidwell

Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Science Faculty Publications

Background.Severe complications may arise as a result of virus dissemination after smallpox (live vaccinia virus) vaccination, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. We developed a new mouse model for studying the effects of antiviral agents on progressive vaccinia virus infections.

Methods.Hairless mice were treated with cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg/day) every 4 days starting 1 day before vaccinia virus exposure to wounded skin. Primary lesions progressed in severity, satellite lesions developed, and the infection eventually killed the mice.

Results.Topical treatment with 1%‐cidofovir cream (twice daily for 7 days) was much more effective in reducing the severity of primary lesions and the number of satellite …

Reduced Risk Of Alzheimer's Disease In Users Of Antioxidant Vitamin Supplements: The Cache County Study, Peter P. Zandi, James C. Anthony, Ara S. Khachaturian, Stephanie V. Stone, Deborah Gustafson, Joann T. Tschanz, Maria C. Norton, John C. S. Breitner

Psychology Faculty Publications

Background: Antioxidants may protect the aging brain against oxidative damage associated with pathological changes of Alzheimer disease (AD). Objective: To examine the relationship between antioxidant supplement use and risk of AD. Design: Cross-sectional and prospective study of dementia. Elderly (65 years or older) county residents were assessed in 1995 to 1997 for prevalent dementia and AD, and again in 1998 to 2000 for incident illness. Supplement use was ascertained at the first contact. Setting: Cache County, Utah. Participants: Among 4740 respondents (93%) with data sufficient to determine cognitive status at the initial assessment, we identified 200 prevalent cases of AD. …

Faculty Senate Executive Committee Agenda, December 15, 2003, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• EPC Business
• Scholarship Advisory Board
• Research Council
• Council on Teacher Education
• Aggie Ecology
• New University Website
• Student Government Update
• Course Evaluations on the web

Insights, Fall, 2003, Utah State University

Discovery Magazine

Bi-annual alumni newsletter for the College of Science of Utah State University in Logan.

Faculty Senate Meeting Agenda, December 1, 2003, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• Enrollment Management/Retention Survey
• Banner Progress Report
• UCFSL Letter
• Proceedings of the Faculty Forum
• Endorsement for the Emergency Preparedness
• GIS Project
• EPC Business
• Honors Program Report
• Parking Committee Report
• Cultural Activities Council Report
• Gay and Lesbian Issues

Faculty Senate Executive Committee Agenda, November 17, 2003, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• EPC Business
• Enrollment Management - Retention Survey
• Banner Progress Report
• Honors Program
• Parking Committee
• Cultural Activities Council
• Debriefing of the Faculty Forum
• UCFSL Letter

Faculty Senate Meeting Agenda, October 6, 2003, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• EPC Business
• Faculty Evaluation Committee Report
• Bookstore Committee Report
• Libraries Advisory Council Report
• Emergency Preparedness/GIS Project
• Letter to Governor and Legislature regarding budget proposals for 2004-2005

Diversity, Complexity And Interactions: An Overview Of Rocky Mountain Forest Ecosystems†, James N. Long

T.W. "Doc" Daniel Experimental Forest

No abstract provided.

Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis With Probabilistic Risk Assessment For The Management Of Contaminated Ground Water, I. Khadam, Jagath J. Kaluarachchi

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

Traditionally, environmental decision analysis in subsurface contamination scenarios is performed using cost–benefit analysis. In this paper, we discuss some of the limitations associated with cost–benefit analysis, especially its definition of risk, its definition of cost of risk, and its poor ability to communicate risk-related information. This paper presents an integrated approach for management of contaminated ground water resources using health risk assessment and economic analysis through a multi-criteria decision analysis framework. The methodology introduces several important concepts and definitions in decision analysis related to subsurface contamination. These are the trade-off between population risk and individual risk, the trade-off between the …

Faculty Senate Executive Committee Agenda, September 22, 2003, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• EPC Business
• Faculty Evaluation Committee Report
• Bookstore Committee Report
• Libraries Advisory Council Report
• University Dashboard
• Emergency Preparedness/GIS Project
• Ombudspersons Proposal

Faculty Senate Meeting Agenda, September 8, 2003, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• EPC Business
• EPC Annual Report
• UPRPC/Space Management Report
• Graduate Council Report
• Approval of Parliamentarian
• Policy Changes for Faculty Senate
• Honorary Degrees and Awards Nominations
• Proposed Changes to the Hiring Policy
• Senate Membership on Banner Committee

A National Early Detection And Rapid Response System For Invasive Plants In The United States, Conceptual Design, Federal Interagency Committee For The Management Of Noxious And Exotic Weeds

All U.S. Government Documents (Utah Regional Depository)

No abstract provided.

Aggiecology- Usu Thinks Green, Utah State University

Agriculture

No abstract provided.

Faculty Senate Executive Committee Agenda, August 18, 2003, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• EPC Business
• EPC Annual Report
• UPRPC/Space Management
• Graduate Council Report
• Policy Changes for Faculty Senate
• Honorary Degrees and Awards resolution
• Term Appointments
• Proposed Changes to the Hiring Policy
• Senate Membership on the Banner Committee

Modularity As An Enabler For A More Efficient Commercial Small Satellite Program , Jenny Kingston

Small Satellite Conference

This paper addresses the key requirements for a commercial small satellite platform, and the specific problems encountered in effectively adapting it to a range of mission types. A modular concept is proposed, which may be reconfigured to more closely match the requirements of each specific mission, whilst minimising the required redesign time and associated cost. This concept enables a programmatic approach where the level of a priori design, manufacture, and test of the platform is maximised. The benefits offered by this approach are shown to be the ability of the platform supplier to respond more rapidly and competitively to contract …

Global Space League Upcoming Ride-Along Opportunities, Joan Horvath, Charlie Chao, Christopher Kitts, Jeff Patterson, Ron Phillips, Rex Ridenoure, Donna Shirley, Randy Stewart

Small Satellite Conference

Global Space League is a new organization which arranges for students nationwide to take part in real science experiments being performed in places not usually accessible to them: the stratosphere, the ocean, onboard test flights of new flight vehicles, and similar environments. Global Space League has three key customers: scientists exploring interesting environments willing to provide a "ride-along" capability to Global Space League experiments; working scientists who want to come up with a student participatory experiment that can uniquely get some useful data in that environment; and students who want to be involved in some actual missions. This year we …

Bie6110 - Sprinkle & Trickle Irrigation, Fall 2003, Gary P. Merkley

Biological and Irrigation Engineering - OCW

This is a course regarding technical design and evaluation of pressurized agricultural irrigation systems, including system layout, pipe sizing, water applicator selection, pumping system hydraulics, water filtration requirements, and water application uniformity and efficiency.

Kula And The Trobriand Islands: The Meaning And Power Of Objects, Becky Tomlinson

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

Just as a word in a foreign language must be interpreted for one who does not speak the language, a cultural artifact alone holds no significance or meaning for an outsider. Thus, for an object to be understood it cannot stand alone, but must be placed in context though time and space, and various layers of cultural meaning must be expounded. The word lagim, from the Kiriwina language, may be roughly translated as meaning "the splashboard of a Kula canoe". This translation may give the proper words from English that denote the object, but it still leaves much to …

Growing Strawberries In Utah, Larry A. Sagers

All Archived Publications

No abstract provided.

Flow Recommendations To Benefit Endangered Fishes In The Colorado And Gunnison Rivers, Charles W. Mcada

All U.S. Government Documents (Utah Regional Depository)

No abstract provided.

Wildlife-Human Interactions In National Parks In Canada And The Usa, Dr. Alistair J. Bath, Jody W. Enck, National Park Service, U.S. Department Of The Interior

All U.S. Government Documents (Utah Regional Depository)

The chance to view wildlife draws millions of visitors each year to the national parks of North America. The combination of a large number of people and abundant wildlife leads to a variety of wildlife-human interactions. In this paper we explore the nature of those wildlife-human interactions, theoretical frameworks social scientists are using to understand those interactions, and approaches used by national parks across North America to manage those interactions.

Applicability Of Risk-Based Management And The Need For Risk-Based Economic Decision Analysis At Hazardous Waste Contaminated Sites, I. Khadam, Jagath J. Kaluarachchi

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

Decision analysis in subsurface contamination management is generally carried out through a traditional engineering economic viewpoint. However, new advances in human health risk assessment, namely, the probabilistic risk assessment, and the growing awareness of the importance of soft data in the decision-making process, require decision analysis methodologies that are capable of accommodating non-technical and politically biased qualitative information. In this work, we discuss the major limitations of the currently practiced decision analysis framework, which evolves around the definition of risk and cost of risk, and its poor ability to communicate risk-related information. A demonstration using a numerical example was conducted …

Using Plants To Attract Hummingbirds To Your Yard, S. Nicole Frey, Heather Heaton

All Current Publications

Hummingbirds only occur in the western hemisphere (Mayr, 2005). While most of these species live in tropical climates, there are many that migrate into the U.S. during the summer months. Several species breed and spend their summers in Utah and the southwest U.S.