No abstract

The results of this study contribute to the body of knowledge with regard to decision making related to ECP use in young adults.

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECP) are a safe and efficacious backup method of birth control. Despite widespread availability, ECP is underutilized by young women. While partner level of involvement has been shown to influence contraceptive behavior, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding any possible association between partner influence and ECP use. To better understand the reasons for the seemingly underuse of ECP, a grounded theory study was conducted to elucidate the relationship of couple dynamics and knowledge of, attitudes toward, and decision making regarding the use of ECP in coupled young adults. Consistent with contemporary constructivist grounded theory methods, several categories were identified including the meanings associated with ECP use. This article presents an elaboration of this particular finding. The meanings that participants ascribed to ECP use represented a continuum of value attributes regarding ethics, safety, efficacy, and responsibility.

Faunas of oceanic islands have a high proportion of endemic species which contribute to the uniqueness of island communities. Island species are particularly naïve and vulnerable to alien predators, such as cats (Felis catus). On large, inhabited islands, where the complete eradication of feral cat populations is not considered feasible, control represents the best management option to lower their detrimental effects on native fauna. The first objective of our study was to investigate population genetics of feral cats of Réunion Island. The second objective was to understand the space use of feral cats established near the breeding colonies of the two endemic and endangered seabirds of Réunion Island, the Barau’s Petrel (Pterodroma baraui) and the Mascarene Petrel (Pseudobulweria aterrima). We evaluated genetic diversity, population structure and gene flow amongst six groups of feral cats located at a maximum of 10 km from known petrel colonies. We also analysed the behaviour and space use of one of these feral cat groups using camera-trap data and Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture (SECR) models. Genetic analyses revealed that feral cats were structured in three genetic clusters explained mostly by the island topography. Two clusters were observed at five sampled sites, suggesting high connectivity amongst these sites. The last cluster was found in only one site, suggesting high isolation. This site was a remote mountain area located in the vicinity of one of the main Barau’s Petrel colonies. The behavioural study was conducted on this isolated feral cat population. Mark recapture analysis suggested that feral cats were present at low density and had large home ranges, which is probably explained by reduced food availability. Finally, we make several recommendations for refining feral cat management programmes on inhabited islands.