Counting techniques are widely used to study and monitor terrestrial birds. To assess current applications of counting techniques, we reviewed landbird studies published 1989–1998 in nine major journals and one symposium. Commonly used techniques fell into two groups: procedures that used counts of bird detections as an index to abundance (index counts), and procedures that used empirical models of detectability to estimate density. Index counts rely upon assumptions concerning detectability that are difficult or impossible to meet in most field studies, but nonetheless remain the technique of choice among ornithologists; 95% of studies we reviewed relied upon point counts, strip transects, or other index procedures. Detectability-based density estimates were rarely used and deserve wider application in landbird studies. Distance sampling is a comprehensive extension of earlier detectability-based procedures (variable-width transects, variable circular plots) and a viable alternative to index counts. We provide a conceptual overview of distance sampling, specific recommendations for applying this technique to studies of landbirds, and an introduction to analysis of distance sampling data using the program DISTANCE.

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Peyronie's plaque excision with dermal grafting generally offers good cosmetic results for patients who require surgical intervention for Peyronie's disease. However, postoperative impotence has been reported in 12 to 100% of such patients. The mechanism of impotence in this setting is not well defined. We present 3 men who had venogenic impotence after plaque excision and dermal grafting for Peyronie's disease. One patient has subsequently responded well to dorsal vein ligation, 1 has chosen an effective nonoperative method of management and 1 continues to consider the options. We report venous leak as an organic cause of impotence after plaque excision and dermal grafting for Peyronie's disease, and its successful management by dorsal vein ligation. The implications of these findings in the surgical management of Peyronie's disease are discussed.