The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a 6-week ketogenic diet on maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), high-intensity Wingate sprints, and work output during a 45-minute cycling bout. Twenty subjects were placed into either an intervention group (N=12) or a control group (N=8). Subjects in the dietary intervention group ingested a diet consisting of 61± 4% fat, 8± 3% carbohydrate, and 30± 5% protein while subjects in the control group were instructed to continue following their normal moderate carbohydrate diet. All subjects were instructed to maintain their current training status. On the first day subjects performed a VO2max test on an electronically braked cycle ergometer. On the second day subjects performed two 30-second Wingate sprints followed by a 30-minute rest. Following this subjects performed a 45-minute timed ride on a cycle ergometer set on isokinetic mode. Absolute VO2max decreased significantly (P<_ 0.05) in the ketogenic group while relative VO2max was unchanged. Rate of perceived exertion increased significantly at 9 and 11 minutes during the VO2max test. Absolute peak and mean power output during the first Wingate sprint was significantly less after the ketogenic diet compared with week 0. When analyzed relative to body weight, however, only peak power output was significantly decreased. Power output during the second sprint remained unchanged. Fat oxidation increased but work output decreased during the 45-minute cycling bout in the ketogenic group. The results of the present study suggest that a 6-week ketogenic diet results in metabolic adaptations that increase fat oxidation. However, the overall decreased performance during a VO2max test, 30-second Wingate sprints, and a 45-minute endurance test indicate that some aspect of the diet has an adverse effect on exercise performance. / School of Physical Education

The Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea) is state-listed as threatened or as a species of special concern throughout most of its range, suffering from extensive loss of breeding habitat. Although the Cerulean Warbler has been classified as a species of high conservation concern, little is known about its life history. Conservation and management efforts directed toward protecting forested landscapes on the breeding and non-breeding grounds, with the specific habitat requirements that this species prefers, are paramount. Yet, there is little specific quantitative data in existence regarding the pertinent vegetation structure in which the Cerulean Warbler can successfully breed. During the two field seasons of this project (2000 and 2001), sixty-two territories were located, monitored, and mapped during the nesting season. To determine the habitat selection of Cerulean Warblers, twenty-seven habitat variables were measured within the center of mapped territories and random sites (0.04 ha circle). The size of territories (n = 59) ranged from 0.036 ha to 1.427 ha. The number of large trees (> 38 cm DBH) was significantly higher in territories, as was the total density of all trees than in random sites. Vertical stratification between 0 - < 2 m was also significantly higher in territories than in random sites. Territories were located significantly closer to water bodies, roads, and agricultural fields. The relative abundance of Cerulean Warblers differed greatly among study sites (O/km2-3.86/k m2). In all study sites containing at least two birds throughout the breeding season, territories exhibited a significantly clumped distribution. As expected, canopy gaps were present in all territories, and perch trees were significantly larger than average trees available to males within territories. This species was located almost exclusively along ridgetops and mesic slopes. The greatest number of birds occurred in study sites that were located within state forests that are currently being managed for timber harvest versus national forest. / School of Physical Education