bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periorbital Congenital Melanocytic Nevus Associated with Ankyloblepharon
Authors: Paik Jong‐Hyun , Lee Mu‐Hyoung , Lee Mi‐Ae
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We report periorbital congenital melanocytic nevus associated with ankyloblepharon in a 2‐month‐old boy. This unusual presentation may be explained by the assumption that the development of the congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) in utero was related to the failure of normal eyelid separation, which occurs around the 20th week of gestation.
Lichenoid Eruption Following Hepatitis B Vaccination: First North American Case Report
Authors: Usman Adil , Kimyai‐Asadi Arash , Stiller Matthew J. , Alam Murad
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Lichen planus is often found in association with a variety of underlying conditions. In particular, liver diseases such as primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, hepatitis C, and hepatitis B have been implicated in cutaneous lichen planus. Of interest, there is mounting evidence that lichen planus‐like eruptions can occur following administration of the hepatitis B vaccine, which has recently become a routine immunization in many parts of the world. We present what we believe to be the first North American case of lichenoid drug eruption associated with the hepatitis B vaccine and provide a brief review of other reported cases of lichenoid eruption seen following hepatitis B vaccination.
Diaper Dermatitis: A Therapeutic Dilemma. Results of a Double‐Blind Placebo Controlled Trial of Miconazole Nitrate 0.25%
Authors: Concannon Patrick , Gisoldi Elvira , Phillips Steven , Grossman Rachel
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Diaper dermatitis, an acute inflammation of the skin in the diaper area, is the most common dermatologic disorder of infancy. This placebo‐controlled, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group trial compared the efficacy and safety of miconazole nitrate 0.25% in a zinc oxide/petrolatum base with that of the ointment base alone in treating acute diaper dermatitis in infants and evaluated the role of Candida albicans in the response to treatment. Infants age 2–13 months with diaper rash were treated with either miconazole nitrate 0.25% (N = 101) or ointment base (N = 101) for 7 days. Although improvement in rash from baseline was seen in both treatment groups on days 3, 5, and 7, patients receiving miconazole nitrate 0.25% had significantly fewer rash sites and lower mean total rash scores on days 5 and 7 (p < 0.001). In the miconazole nitrate 0.25% group, improvement was most marked among those with moderate or severe diaper dermatitis at baseline and among patients whose baseline rashes were positive for C. albicans. Treatment with miconazole nitrate 0.25% was as safe as with ointment base alone. Miconazole nitrate 0.25% ointment is a safe and effective treatment for diaper dermatitis in infants.
Cutaneous Complications of BCG Vaccination in Infants with Immune Disorders: Two Cases and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Antaya Richard J. , Gardner Erin S. , Bettencourt Miriam S. , Daines Mike , Denise Yamo , Uthaisangsook Suwanee , Buckley Rebecca H. , Prose Neil S.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Two infants, one with a T‐cell‐signaling defect resulting in a primary immunodeficiency syndrome and the other with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), are described. Both infants developed cutaneous infections secondary to their bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccinations. Both patients were from countries where BCG is routinely administered in infancy. The infant with the T‐cell‐signaling defect developed a disseminated infection involving the skin, while the infant with SCID developed a localized cutaneous infection at the site of his BCG immunization. These two cases resemble other reported cases of cutaneous BCG infection following routine vaccination in immunocompromised patients. Mycobacterium bovis infection should be considered in patients with cutaneous eruptions who have received BCG vaccination, especially those who are immunocompromised.
Ellis–van Creveld Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Arya Latika , Mendiratta Vibhu , Sharma R. C. , Solanki R. S.
Published: March 2003

Ellis–van Creveld syndrome (EVC) or chondroectodermal dysplasia, a rare autosomal recessive disorder, is a tetrad of chondrodysplasia, ectodermal dysplasia, polydactyly, and congenital heart disease, of which chondrodystrophy of the tubular bones is the most common feature, while central nervous system (CNS) and urinary tract anomalies are some of its rarer associations. This report describes EVC syndrome in two sisters of Indian origin, ages 8 and 6 years, the products of nonrelated, unaffected parents. The patients had chondrodysplasia of tubular bones resulting in disproportionate dwarfism, polydactyly, severely dystrophic nails, partially absent teeth, and short and bound‐down upper lips with multiple frenulae. Other features noted in the girls were syndactyly and mild mitral regurgitation. All four of the classic features of EVC syndrome were present in patient 1 and three in patient 2. Additional findings were ichthyosis and plantar keratoderma in the former and absent clavicles in the latter, which have not been reported previously. The importance of prenatal diagnosis of EVC is stressed and a multidisciplinary approach for the management of these patients is highlighted.
Tinea Capitis in Infants Less Than 1 Year of Age
Authors: Romano C. , Gianni C. , Papini M.
Published: March 2003

Tinea capitis is the most frequent manifestation of dermatophyte infection in children, but because it is rare in the first months of life it is often misdiagnosed. Here we report 15 cases of tinea capitis observed in Italy in infants less than 1 year of age. There were 10 boys and 5 girls (mean age 6 months). Diagnosis was confirmed by mycologic examination. Microsporum canis was isolated in nine cases and Trichophyton mentagrophytes in three. These 12 infants were Italian and animals were the source of infection. Trichophyton erinacei was isolated in one Italian infant, and the source was soil. In the other two cases, Trichophyton tonsurans and Trichophyton violaceum were isolated; these infants were from Central America and India, respectively, and had contracted the infection from humans. All achieved clinical and mycologic recovery after systemic and topical antimycotic therapy.
A Rare Association of Epidermal Nevus Syndrome and Ainhum‐Like Digital Constrictions
Authors: Pandhi Deepika , Reddy B. S. N.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Epidermal nevus syndrome is an unusual occurrence of epidermal nevi with central nervous system (CNS), eye, and skeletal developmental abnormalities. We report an as yet undocumented association of generalized epidermal nevus with striate keratoderma, ainhum‐like digital constriction, and autoamputation of the right fifth toe in a 10‐year‐old girl. The excellent response to oral acitretin with softening of the constrictions is also highlighted.
Streptococcal Exanthem in a Blaschkolinear Pattern: Clinical Evidence for Genetic Mosaicism in Hypomelanosis of Ito
Authors: Durán‐McKinster Carola , Moises Celia , Rodríguez‐Jurado Rodolfo , Tamayo‐Sánchez Lourdes , Orozco‐Covarrubias Luz , Ruiz‐Maldonado Ramón
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Due to the presence of two different clones of cells in early embryogenesis, numerous congenital and acquired dermatoses have a linear distribution following the lines of Blaschko. Acquired inflammatory skin diseases are rarely observed in linear patterns. Our patient was born with macrocephaly, left eye glaucoma, and a left facial and contralateral corporal hemihypertrophy, cerebral dysgenesis, and skeletal abnormalities. Hypopigmented S‐shaped linear macules on the trunk and linear streaks on the arms and legs were compatible with hypomelanosis of Ito. At 5 years of age the patient presented with an erythematous follicular exanthem compatible with scarlet fever exclusively in the lines of Blaschko. This fact suggests a genetic mosaicism.
A Prospective Case Control Study of the Association of Gianotti–Crosti Syndrome with Human Herpesvirus 6 and Human Herpesvirus 7 Infections
Authors: Chuh Antonio An Tung , Chan Henry Hin Lee , Chiu Susan Shui Seng , Ng Hoi Yee , Peiris Joseph Sriyal Malik
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Gianotti–Crosti syndrome (GCS) is known to be associated with hepatitis B and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infections. Apart from a single case report based on serology alone, there are no published data on an association between GCS and human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6) and human herpesvirus 7 (HHV‐7) primary infections or reactivations. Our aim was to investigate the association between GCS and HHV‐6 and HHV‐7 infections. Ten patients diagnosed with GCS at a primary care practice over an 18‐month period were recruited. Controls were age‐ and sex‐matched patients with unrelated symptoms requiring venepuncture for other indications. Blood specimens were collected from patients and controls at presentation, and from patients 4 weeks later. Virologic evidence of HHV‐6 and HHV‐7 infection was sought in peripheral blood leukocytes and plasma using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for viral DNA, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for HHV‐6 U91 mRNA transcripts, and serology. Serology for EBV and hepatitis B virus was done. In contrast to the 10 controls, 2 patients (both infants) with clinically diagnosed GCS had evidence of active HHV‐6 infection. This was demonstrated by detection of viral DNA in the absence of antibody in the acute plasma specimens and HHV‐6 DNA viral loads of more than 5.3 log10 genome copies/5 μl in the whole blood specimens, a profile previously shown to be diagnostic of recent primary HHV‐6 infection. None of the patients had evidence of recent EBV or hepatitis B infection. We conclude that primary HHV‐6 infection may be associated with GCS in some infants.
Infantile Myofibromatosis: A Cause of Leg Length Discrepancy
Authors: Orozco‐Covarrubias Luz , Soriano‐Hernández Yaara , Durán‐McKinster Carola , Tamayo‐Sánchez Lourdes , Ruiz‐Maldonado Ramón
Published: March 2003

Abstract: An infant with self‐healing, multifocal cutaneous infantile myofibromatosis with leg‐length discrepancy as a sequela is reported. This condition should be suspected in infants with one or more firm or hard nodules in the skin, subcutaneous tissue, bone, muscle, or viscera. The histopathologic picture is diagnostic. Treatment and prognosis depend on the extension and location of the tumors.
Ichthyosis Follicularis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Alfadley Abdullah , Al Hawsawi Khalid , Al Aboud Khalid
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Ichthyosis follicularis (IF) is a very rare neurocutaneous, X‐linked recessive condition affecting the skin, hair, eyes, and central nervous system (CNS). This report describes a child with facial dysmorphism, mental retardation, psychomotor delay, congenital alopecia of the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes, and extensive spiny follicular papules. A skin biopsy specimen showed the characteristic absence of sebaceous glands. We also reviewed the literature on this very rare entity. Additional findings observed in our patient, including hepatosplenomegaly, undescended testicles, and ptosis, have not been reported before.
Low Density Lipoprotein Apheresis by Membrane Differential Filtration (Cascade Filtration)
Authors: Geiss Hans C. , Parhofer  , Donner  , Schwandt
Published: March 2003

Membrane differential filtration (MDF) is an apheresis technique with which atherogenic lipoproteins can be eliminated from plasma on the basis of particle size. In 52 patients (REMUKAST Study, 1,702 treatments), low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was decreased by 61%, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol by 42%, and fibrinogen by 54%. Our own results in 3 patients show decreases of 62%, 31%, and 59%, respectively; lipoprotein (a) (Lp[a]) was reduced by 58%. The elimination of atherogenic lipoproteins was accompanied by a loss of macromolecules (IgM: 55%, IgG: 27%, α2‐macroglobulin: 49%) resulting in improved hemorrheologic parameters. Although HDL is eliminated with each apheresis session, pretreatment concentrations of HDL cholesterol increased by 24% during regular apheresis for 1 year (26 patients, REMUKAST Study). However, preapheresis concentrations of other macroglobulins such as immunoglobulins remained decreased compared to concentrations obtained before the first apheresis session (IgM: 34%, IgG: 23%, and IgA: 16%). We conclude that MDF apheresis is an effective method to lower elevated concentrations of atherogenic lipoproteins. The concomitant loss of other macromolecules transiently improves hemorrheology but demands a close monitoring of immunoglobulin concentrations as a safety parameter.
Extracorporeal Treatment of Thrombotic Microangiopathy: A Ten Year Experience
Authors: Bueno Damaso , Sevigny Judith , Kaplan Andre A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We reviewed 24 episodes of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) representing 22 patients from July 1989 to July 1998. Nine cases presented with a community acquired (CA group) thrombotic thombocytopenic purpura or hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS), 3 cases were related to pregnancy (P group), 10 cases were compatible with TMA after bone marrow transplantation or chemotherapy (BMT/C group), and 2 cases had a background of scleraderma (SC group). Twenty episodes were treated exclusively with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) using fresh frozen plasma (FFP) replacement. In the BMT/C group, 4 patients underwent immunoadsorption with the Prosorba protein A column in addition to TPE. The CA, P, and SC groups had favorable outcomes with 78% (7 of 9), 100% (3 of 3), and 100% (2 of 2) survival, respectively. Despite intensive therapy, there was only 1 survivor in the BMT/C group (1 of 10). Successful outcome required up to 57 TPE treatments. We could not document any benefit to immunoadsorption with the Prosorba protein A column.
Neutrophil Activation in Immunoadsorption
Authors: Ota Kohei , Shimizu Yuko , Ichikawa Hisae , Ueda Mika , Akiyama Naoko , Higuchi Chieko , Agishi Tetsuzo , Iwata Makoto
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Immunoadsorption therapy (IAT) is used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Although IAT has been reported to modify humoral immunity by inducing chemokines and activating complements, much remains unknown about the biological effects of IAT on cellular components in peripheral blood. To define the influence of IAT on leukocytes, we determined leukocyte
l‐selectin (CD62L) and Mac‐1 (CD11b) as parameters for activation of leukocytes in peripheral blood during IAT. Peripheral leukocyte
l‐selectin and Mac‐1 were determined continuously by flow cytometry in 6 patients with neuroimmunological disorders in whom IAT was conducted using a Plasma Flow OP‐05 (Asahi Medical Corp., Tokyo, Japan) as a plasma separator and Immusorba TR‐350 (Asahi Medical Corp., Tokyo, Japan) as an adsorption column. Expression of neutrophils (PMN)
l‐selectin was decreased 30 min after starting IAT, with the decreases particularly marked at the end of IAT, while expression of mononuclear cells (MNC)
l‐selectin slightly increased during IAT. Expression of PMN Mac‐1 was markedly increased at the end of IAT, whereas expression of MNC Mac‐1 did not change during IAT. Leukocyte counts decreased 30 min after starting IAT, and then increased to the initial level or higher in parallel with
l‐selectin downregulation and Mac‐1 upregulation on PMN.
l‐selectin downregulation and Mac‐1 upregulation on PMN suggested that activation of PMN associated with changes in peripheral leukocyte counts occurred during IAT and might play some role in modulating the human circulating blood and immune systems.
Ethical Lessons Learned from the Use of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Neurologic Disease
Authors: McQuillen Michael P.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Conflicts of interest are inherent in the practice of medicine, particularly in the conduct of clinical research. Such conflicts can often be identified and even resolved by the application of ethical principles as an integral part of such research. The opportunity to participate in a series of controlled clinical trials of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in diverse neurologic disease provided an insight into some of the ethical dilemmas posed by such conflicts of interest. Chief among these was the recognition that informed consent is a precious though fragile and multidimensional concept. In the last analysis, ethics is the “business of being human”; respect for its guidance helps to ensure the success of clinical research.
Physical Principles in Therapeutic Apheresis
Authors: Horiuchi Takashi
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Physical modality could have some impact on new apheresis technologies because it is nonbiologic and controllable for its operating conditions. In this article, the application of electromagnetic force and light scattering force to bioseparation and biostimulation was explored.
The Effectiveness of Intravenous Human Immunoglobulin Treatment After Plasmapheresis in Restoring Serum Immunoglobulin Levels: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Moriya Y. , Yamaji K. , Kanai Y. , Tsuda H.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: This study was performed to examine the effects of intravenous human immunoglobulin (IVIG) on the level of serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) and its subclasses after plasmapheresis in patients with autoimmune disorders. Twenty‐nine patients with predominantly rheumatoid arthritis were enrolled in this study. The plasmapheresis was performed by the use of double‐filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP). Immediately after DFPP, IVIG (2.5 g, 50 ml) was intravenously administered. The treatment with IVIG had almost no effect on subjective and objective symptoms. Immediately after DFPP, the total of serum IgG was decreased by approximately 40%. After 24 h, the total of serum IgG recovered to 16% reduction in IVIG‐treated patients whereas it remained at 32% reduction in nontreated patients. The beneficial effect of IVIG was significantly observed in patients who had shown 1,000–1,800 mg/dl IgG in their sera. After DFPP, IgG subclasses were decreased without change in the ratio of subclasses. Twenty percent to 30% of IgG subclasses were supplemented by the treatment with IVIG without change in the ratio of subclasses. These results suggested that the treatment with IVIG at minimal amount was safe and effective to supplement IgG for hypogammaglobulinemia after DFPP.
A Case Report: First Case of Filtration Leukocytapheresis for a Patient of Aortitis Syndrome Associated with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Fukunaga Ken , Sawada Koji , Fukuda Yoshihiro , Matoba Yoshika , Onishi Kunio , Fukui Shin , Yamamura Makoto , Satomi Masamichi , Shimoyama Takashi
Published: March 2003

Abstract: An 18‐year‐old woman was treated with leukocytapheresis (LCAP) for her combined ulcerative colitis (UC) and aortitis syndrome (AS). Because a close relationship between these two diseases has been suspected based on their etiological and/or pathological findings, we had hypothesized that LCAP, which has satisfactory effects on inflammatory bowel disease such as UC and Crohn's disease might be effective for both her UC and her AS. After informed consent, LCAP therapy was performed once a week for a total of 7 times. Endoscopic remission of the UC was observed. Even though there were no significant improvements in her subjective symptoms of AS such as side‐neck pain and dizziness, objective evidence of improvement was obtained when the patient's condition was compared before and after LCAP by angiography, angio‐magnetic resonance imaging, and the plethysmogram of her fingertips. These results suggest that LCAP may be valuable as a new adjunct therapy for AS.
Volunteer Donor Apheresis
Authors: Waxman Dan A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Volunteer donor apheresis has evolved from early plasmapheresis procedures that collected single components into technically advanced multicomponent procedures that can produce combinations of red blood cells, platelets, and plasma units. Blood collection and utilization is increasing annually in the United States. The number of apheresis procedures is also increasing such that single donor platelet transfusions now exceed platelet concentrates from random donors. Donor qualifications for apheresis vary from those of whole blood. Depending on the procedure, the donor weight, donation interval, and platelet count must be taken into consideration. Adverse effects of apheresis are well known and fortunately occur in only a very small percentage of donors. The recruitment of volunteer donors is one of the most challenging aspects of a successful apheresis program. As multicomponent apheresis becomes more commonplace, it is important for collection centers to analyze the best methods to recruit and collect donors.
Plasma Exchange in Patients with Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Bamichas Gerasimos , Natse Taisir , Christidou Fotini , Stangou Maria , Karagianni Anna , Koukourikos Sotiris , Chaidemenos Georgios , Chrysomallis Fotis , Sombolos Kostas
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We describe our experience with plasma exchange (PE) therapy in 13 patients with drug‐induced toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), 4 of whom had malignant disorders. Skin lesions covered 17% to 100% of total body surface area and 1 to 4 mucous membranes were involved. None of the patients was hospitalized in a burn unit. The patients underwent from 2 to 5 PE sessions (mean 3.4 ± 0.2 standard error of mean [SEM], median 3) exchanging 6.6 to 17.6 L of plasma (mean 10.1 ± 0.7 SEM, median 10). PE sessions were carried out every other day in 8 patients and daily in 5. Three patients died (23%) while the remaining 10 (77%) had a full recovery. Plasmapheresis may be an effective treatment in patients with drug‐induced TEN hospitalized outside a burn unit.
Large‐scale Ecological Restoration of Degraded Tropical Forest Lands: The Potential Role of Timber Plantations
Authors: Lamb David
Published: March 2003

Large areas of the world's tropical forests are being degraded, with a consequent loss of species diversity. Only some of these are able to recover unaided. Where attempts are being made to restore such forests, the scale of the attempts is usually small. Timber plantations are one of the few means by which large areas of cleared or degraded landscape can be reforested. These usually restore the productive capacity of the landscape but do little to recover biological diversity. But a number of approaches might be used to redesign such plantations so that they would both yield the timber needed to justify the investment and also contain some proportion of their former biodiversity. These approaches include using indigenous species rather than exotic species, creating species mosaics by matching species to particular sites, embedding the plantation monocultures in a matrix of intact or restored vegetation, using species mixtures rather than monocultures, or encouraging the diverse plant understories that can often develop beneath plantations. The degree of ecological restoration possible using these alternatives ranges from modest to significant, although none is likely to achieve complete restoration. Any improvements in regional biodiversity brought about by these changes might be seen as being at the expense of plantation productivity. But many of these approaches have advantages other than just restoring former biodiversity. I discuss some of the trade‐offs and implications for plantation managers and restorationists.
Salt Marsh Tidal Channel Morphometry: Applications for Wetland Creation and Restoration
Authors: Zeff Marjorie L.
Published: March 2003

The morphometry of tidal channels in a back‐barrier salt marsh in New Jersey was investigated. Characteristics of the tidal channel drainage network plan form (order, bifurcation ratio, length, sinuosity) and cross section channel form (width:depth ratio, hydraulic geometry) are compared with data from other studies. Drainage patterns follow Horton’s Law of Stream Numbers and Law of Stream Lengths. Mitigation sites should be designed in accordance with these laws. The degree to which site‐specific substrate, vegetation, and flow conditions constrain or facilitate the development of sinuous, meandering channel reaches should be estimated to provide information for the design of tidal channel geometries and dimensions that will accommodate predicted discharges. Drainage networks in created and restored wetlands should reflect the spatial distribution of width and depth properties (width:depth ratios, cross‐sectional areas, longitudinal slopes, hydraulic geometry) found in similar natural systems. Reproducing these characteristics will lessen the practice of oversizing channels. Hydraulic geometry relationships can facilitate the sizing of channels at Atlantic coast salt marsh mitigation sites. Recommendations are given to promote the development of drainage networks that function like the coastal back‐barrier Avalon/Stone Harbor marsh in New Jersey.
Habitat Loss, Fragmentation, and Restoration
Authors: Huxel Gary R. , Hastings Alan
Published: March 2003

The loss and fragmentation of habitat is a major threat to the continued survival of many species. We argue that, by including spatial processes in restoration management plans, the effects of habitat loss and fragmentation can be offset. Yet few management plans take into account spatial effects of habitat conservation/restoration despite the importance of spatial dynamics in species conservation and recovery plans. Tilman et al. (1997) found a “restoration lag” in simulations of species restoration when randomly selecting habitat for restoration. Other studies have suggested that the placement of restored habitat can overcome effects of habitat loss and fragmentation. Here we report the findings of simulations that examine different regional management strategies, focusing on habitat selection. We find that nonrandom restoration practices such as restoring only habitat that is adjacent to those occupied by the target species can dramatically reduce or negate any restoration lag. In fact, we find that the increase in patch occupancy of the landscape can be greater than two‐fold in the adjacent versus the random scenarios after only two restoration events, and this increase can be as great as six‐fold during the early restoration phase. Many restoration efforts have limitations on both funds and available sites for restoration, necessitating high potential success on any restoration efforts. The incorporation of spatial analyses in restoration management may drastically improve a species' chance of recovery. Therefore, general principles that incorporate spatial processes and sensible management are needed to guide specific restoration efforts.
Germination and Initial Root Growth of Four Legumes as Affected by Landfill Biogas Atmosphere
Authors: Marchiol L. , Cesco S. , Pinton R. , Zerbi G.
Published: March 2003

The most important problem in the restoration of closed landfills is the production of toxic gases by decomposition of refuse. Such gases affect the root system of plants growing on these sites. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects induced by landfill biogas contamination on germination and initial root growth of Vicia villosa (hairy vetch), Lotus corniculatus (birdsfoot trefoil), Trifolium pratense (red clover), and Trifolium repens (white clover). In laboratory conditions, simulated landfill and control gas were supplied to the seedlings. The composition of the simulated landfill gas used was: 16% O2, 8% CO2, 3% CH4, and 73% N2; a control gas was also tested (21% O2, 0. 035% CO2, and 78% N2). Percentage of germinated seeds was determined after 6 and 12 days from the starting date; at the same time qualitative assays of metabolic root functionality were also performed by using an agar technique in order to visualize changes in rhizosphere pH. At the end of the experiment, the length of the primary and secondary root was measured. Germination after 6 days was affected by the gas treatment; the landfill biogas caused a delay in germination with respect to the control in seeds of V. villosa and L. corniculatus. Root fresh weight and dry weight were significantly decreased by biogas treatment in V. villosa and T. repens. In contrast, root dry weight was higher in gas treated L. corniculatus and T. pratense compared to control seedlings. Total root system was significantly higher in treated T. pratense. The qualitative assay suggests, with the exception of T. pratense, a metabolic adjustment of the treated seedlings.

Key words: restoration, landfill biogas, legumes.
The Incidence of a Generalist Thrips Herbivore Among Natural and Translocated Patches of an Endangered Vernal Pool Plant, Blennosperma bakeri
Authors: Leong Joan M. , Bailey Erika L.
Published: March 2003

As a restoration strategy, translocation of endangered plant populations may be a risky procedure with uncertain outcomes. Often, very little ecological information is known about these populations before, as well as after, translocation. The endangered vernal pool plant, Blennosperma bakeri, is a case in point. As a consequence of vernal pool habitat destruction, many populations of B. bakeri have been transplanted or translocated to various receptor sites. In this study, we examine the incidence of a thrips herbivore, Frankliniella minuta, in natural and translocated populations of B. bakeri in relation to floral patch size and degree of isolation and present implications for B. bakeri restoration and management. At a vernal pool mitigation site in California, U.S.A., thrips were present in both kinds of B. bakeri populations, and the range of thrips densities in both kinds of populations was similar for adults and immatures. Significant negative relationships between patch size, patch isolation, and numbers of flower heads infested with adult or immature thrips were found only among natural patches. Natural patches tended to be smaller in size than translocated patches, but patch isolation distances were similar. Some evidence suggests that B. bakeri is a F. minuta host plant, but the impact of these herbivores on B. bakeri remains unclear. Our findings, although preliminary, suggest that the distribution and abundance of F. minuta varied with floral patchiness, thrips stage, and the natural or translocated status of B. bakeri populations. In addition, our results provide a starting point for understanding the spatial context of plant–herbivore interactions in artificially altered vernal pool landscapes.
Forest Regeneration in a Chronosequence of Tropical Abandoned Pastures: Implications for Restoration Ecology
Authors: Aide T. Mitchell , Zimmerman Jess K. , Pascarella John B. , Rivera Luis , Marcano‐Vega Humfredo
Published: March 2003

During the mid‐1900s, most of the island of Puerto Rico was deforested, but a shift in the economy from agriculture to small industry beginning in the 1950s resulted in the abandonment of agricultural lands and recovery of secondary forest. This unique history provides an excellent opportunity to study secondary forest succession and suggest strategies for tropical forest restoration. To determine the pattern of secondary succession, we describe the woody vegetation in 71 abandoned pastures and forest sites in four regions of Puerto Rico. The density, basal area, aboveground biomass, and species richness of the secondary forest sites were similar to those of the old growth forest sites (>80 yr) after approximately 40 years. The dominant species that colonized recently abandoned pastures occurred over a broad elevational range and are widespread in the neotropics. The species richness of Puerto Rican secondary forests recovered rapidly, but the species composition was quite different in comparison with old growth forest sites, suggesting that enrichment planting will be necessary to restore the original composition. Exotic species were some of the most abundant species in the secondary forest, but their long‐term impact depended on life history characteristics of each species. These data demonstrate that one restoration strategy for tropical forest in abandoned pastures is simply to protect the areas from fire, and allow natural regeneration to produce secondary forest. This strategy will be most effective if remnant forest (i.e., seed sources) still exist in the landscape and soils have not been highly degraded. Patterns of forest recovery also suggest strategies for accelerating natural recovery by planting a suite of generalist species that are common in recently abandoned pastures in Puerto Rico and throughout much of the neotropics.
Effects of Hardwood Reduction Techniques on Longleaf Pine Sandhill Vegetation in Northwest Florida
Authors: Provencher Louis , Herring Brenda J. , Gordon Doria R. , Rodgers H. Leroy , Galley Krista E. M. , Tanner George W. , Hardesty Jeffrey L. , Brennan Leonard A.
Published: March 2003

We tested whether the intensity of hardwood midstory reduction causes commensurate improvements of herbaceous groundcover in fire‐suppressedPinus palustris(longleaf pine) sandhills. Using a complete randomized block design, we compared the effects of three hardwood reduction techniques (spring burning, application of the ULW®form of the herbicide hexazinone, chainsaw felling/girdling) and a no‐treatment control on plant species richness, and on life form and common species densities at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, U.S.A., from 1995 to 1998. ULW®and felling/girdling plots were burned for fuel reduction two years after initial treatment application. We also sampled the same variables in frequently‐burned reference sandhills to establish targets for restoration. Spring burns achieved partial topkill of oaks (17.6–41.1% from 1995 to 1998) compared to reductions of 69.1–94% accomplished by ULW®and of 93.2–67.8% by felling/girdling treatments. We predicted that plant species richness and densities of herbaceous groundcover life forms would increase according to the percent hardwood reductions. Predictions were not supported by treatment effects for species richness because positive responses to fire best explained increases in plant richness, whereas ULW®effects accounted for the largest initial decreases. Legumes, non‐legume forbs, and graminoids did not respond to treatments as predicted by the hypothesis. Again, positive responses to fire dominated the results, which was supported by greater herbaceous densities observed in reference plots. Overall, we found that the least effective and least expensive hardwood midstory reduction method, fire, resulted in the greatest groundcover improvements as measured by species richness and herbaceous groundcover plant densities.
Restoration of Natural and Semi‐Natural Wetland Systems in Central Europe: Progress and Predictability of Developments
Authors: Klötzli Frank , Grootjans Ab P.
Published: March 2003

After almost 40 years of experience in wetland restoration in Central Europe in which vegetation changes have been monitored by means of permanent plots or vegetation maps, some light can be shed on the intrinsic dynamics of such ecosystems, showing the limits of restoration and constraints in its manipulation. Sometimes such constraints in the restoration process can be identified, mostly being constraints in nutrient availability or in the water regime, but unexpected changes can also be the result of intrinsic species fluctuations or invasive species. Unexpected vegetation developments are sometimes undesired, can be very persistent and may indicate that environmental conditions are not suitable for target communities. Unexpected developments also illustrate the limits in restoration ecology. Very often the restoration process simply proceeds along successional pathways we did not anticipate. Theories about such alternative pathways can be explored using prediction models, such as cellular automata, which can handle the results of biomonitoring very efficiently. Biomonitoring during 40 years, however, has also shown that a certain amount of unpredictability has to be taken for granted, both in natural wetlands and in areas under restoration.
Butterfly Response to Microclimatic Conditions Following Ponderosa Pine Restoration
Authors: Meyer Cecilia L. , Sisk Thomas D.
Published: March 2003

Efforts to restore ponderosa pine ecosystems to open, park‐like conditions that predominated prior to European‐American settlement result in altered stand structure and increased landscape heterogeneity, potentially altering habitat suitability for invertebrates and other forest organisms. We examined the responses of two butterfly species,Colias eurythemeandNeophasia menapia, to microclimatic changes at structural edges created by experimental restoration treatments in northern Arizona. We monitored microclimate, including air temperature, light intensity, and vapor pressure deficit (VPD), on several mornings during butterfly releases. We placed adult butterflies at east‐ and west‐facing edges approximately one half‐hour before dawn to determine their behavioral response to microclimatic differences between east‐ and west‐facing edges. After sunrise, all three microclimatic variables were higher at east‐facing edges, and the difference in microclimate between the two edge orientations increased through early morning. For both species, butterflies placed at east‐facing edges flew earlier than butterflies at west‐facing edges.Colias eurytheme, an open‐habitat species, tended to move toward the treated forest during initial flight, while movements ofNeophasia menapia, a forest‐dwelling species, did not differ from random flight. Our results indicate that butterflies respond to microclimatic factors associated with restoration treatments, while responses to structural changes in habitat vary among species, based on habitat and food plant preferences. These changes in forest structure and microclimate may affect the distribution of many mobile invertebrates in forested landscapes undergoing restoration treatments.
Mycorrhizal Inoculation of Big Sacaton: Implications for Grassland Restoration of Abandoned Agricultural Fields
Authors: Richter Brantlee Spakes , Stutz Jean C.
Published: March 2003

Grasslands dominated bySporobolus wrightii(big sacaton) once covered riparian floodplains in southwestern United States and northern Sonora, Mexico but now occupy less than 5% of their historic range, mostly due to clearing for agriculture. Many agricultural fields have been abandoned because of changing land uses, and efforts are under way to restore native grassland habitat. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are known to form associations withS. wrightiiand can be a potential factor in grassland restoration efforts. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of mycorrhizal inoculation onS. wrightiiduring transplant production and in a restoration trial.Sporobolus wrightiiwas grown with and without AM fungi in 2.8‐L tall pots and 150‐mL nursery containers under greenhouse conditions for 8 weeks and then transplanted into an abandoned agricultural field. Plants were monitored for growth, survival, and mycorrhizal infection. Seedling emergence in the greenhouse was higher in pots with mycorrhizal inoculation, but inoculation had little effect on growth except more tillers were produced by pre‐inoculated plants grown in the smaller containers. In the abandoned field, pre‐inoculated plants had greater survival, basal diameter, and tiller and panicle production through the first two growing seasons. Plants started in smaller containers also had greater survival, height, basal diameter, and tiller production than those started in tall pots. Root colonization was detected in all plants by 2 months after transplanting but was not consistent throughout the experiment except for pre‐inoculated plants started in the smaller containers. These results indicate that mycorrhizal inoculation can benefit restoration efforts in abandoned agriculture fields in semiarid regions.
Development of Tree Regeneration in Fern‐dominated Forest Understories After Reduction of Deer Browsing
Authors: De La Cretaz Avril L. , Kelty Matthew J.
Published: March 2003

Dennstaedtia punctilobula(hay‐scented fern) can act as a native invasive species in forests in eastern North America where prolonged deer browsing occurs in stands with partially open overstory canopies. Ferns dominate the understory with a 60‐cm tall canopy, with little regeneration of native tree species. It has been hypothesized that, once established, ferns may continue to inhibit tree regeneration after deer browsing has been reduced. To test this hypothesis, we documented the pattern of recovery of the tree seedling understory in plantations ofPinus strobus(white pine) andPinus resinosa(red pine) on the Quabbin Reservation watershed protection forest in central Massachusetts, where after 40 years of intensive deer browsing the deer herd was rapidly reduced through controlled hunting. Dense fern understories occur on nearly 4,000 ha of the predominantly oak–pine forest. Three years after deer herd reduction, stands with the highest density fern cover (77% of plots with>90% cover) had significantly fewer seedlings at least 30 cm in height, compared with stands with lower fern density, and those seedlings consisted almost entirely ofBetula lenta(black birch) and white pine. Height growth analysis showed that black birch and white pine grew above the height of the fern canopy in 3 and 6 years, respectively. In contrast, two common species,Fraxinus americana(white ash) andQuercus rubra(red oak), grew beneath the dense fern cover for 5 years with height growth less than 5 cm/yr after the first year. A study of spring phenology indicated that the ability of black birch to grow through the fern canopy might have been due to its early leaf development in spring before the fern canopy was formed, in contrast to oak and ash with delayed leaf development. Thus, the ferns showed differential interference among species with seedling development after reduction of deer browse.
Effects of Sward Height, Gap Size, and Slug Grazing on Emergence and Establishment of Trollius europaeus (Globeflower)
Authors: Hitchmough James D.
Published: March 2003

Abstract To determine the effects of sward height and gap size on the emergence and subsequent development of Trollius europaeus, seeds were introduced into artificially created gaps in mown and unmown wet meadow grassland in Ayr, Scotland. Emergence and establishment of nondormant seed (previously leached in running tap water and soaked in gibberellic acid) placed in a range of circular gaps (25 mm, 50 mm with and without root barrier, 100 and 200 mm diameter) were monitored over 305 days. Trollius demonstrated high field emergence (mean, 46% of viable seed sown) in this experiment. Emergence was not significantly affected by either sward height or gap size, although emergence was greater in mown swards. The critical factor determining subsequent survival of seedlings was slug predation rather than sward height or gap size. However, losses due to slug predation were significantly greater in unmown swards, resulting in more seedlings in mown swards. One hundred eleven days after sowing (September) seedling numbers had declined substantially in both unmown and mown swards, and by day 305 (April) seedlings were extinct in both sward types. The implications of the research for the restoration and management of T. europaeus are discussed.
Intraneural nerve metastasis with multiple mononeuropathies
Authors: Grisold W. , Piza‐Katzer H. , Jahn R. , Herczeg E.
Published: March 2003

Abstract  Although cancer is a frequent condition, neoplastic involvement of the peripheral nervous system is rare. The mechanisms are heterogeneous and include lesions within the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) space, local invasion (e.g. brachial plexus), compression, rarely direct infiltration, perineurial spread and even rarer intranerval metastasis. A 47‐year‐old woman had been treated for a carcinoid 10 years earlier and had received axillar irradiation. At presentation she suffered from weakness of the biceps brachii and was experiencing pain radiating from the axilla into the forearm and thumb. MR scans of the brachial plexus were negative and her symptoms were primarily considered to stem from a postradiation brachial plexopathy. Because of increasing pain, the brachial plexus was explored and a metastasis in the left musculocutaneous nerve was resected. Several months later, numbness and pain appeared in the ulnar nerve and another intrafascicular metastasis in the ulnar nerve was discovered. Resection with preservation of remaining fascicles was performed. This rare case report demonstrates that multiple mononeuropathies, resembling multiplex neuropathy, may be caused by intranerval metastasis.
Reduced Nerve Blood Flow In Diabetic Rats Is A Reflection Of Hindlimb Muscle Wasting
Authors: Tomlinson Dr , Riaz S.
Published: March 2003

We examined the influence of muscle wasting, as a result of streptozotocin‐induced diabetes, on sciatic nerve laser Doppler flux (SNLDF), as an index of nerve blood flow, and conduction velocity (NCV). We compared dietary‐restricted weight‐reduced non‐diabetic rats with controls and with diabetic rats and we studied the effects of clenbuterol, an anabolic β‐adrenoceptor agonist, in control and diabetic rats. Dietary restriction reduced the weights of hindlimb muscles—extensor digitorum longus, soleus and gastrocnemius—half as much as did streptozotocin‐diabetes and clenbuterol increased muscle weights in control and diabetic rats. This gave a hierarchy of muscle weights in the order—clenbuterol‐controls, untreated controls, weight‐reduced non‐diabetics, clenbuterol‐diabetics and untreated diabetics. Diabetes without treatment reduced SNLDF by 51% (p < 0.01); dietary restriction by 25% (p < 0.01) and there were proportional increases associated with clenbuterol treatment. Combined muscle weights regressed closely with SNLDF (r2=0.69; p < 0.001) and, when the latter was expressed relative to muscle weights, a similar value was obtained for all five groups—there were no significant differences. Thus, sciatic nerve blood flow is closely related to hindlimb muscle weight and the effect of diabetes on nerve blood flow may be secondary to muscle wasting. Sciatic/tibialis motor and sensory conduction velocities were also reduced by muscle wasting in the dietary restricted group of non‐diabetic rats, but, unlike nerve Doppler flux, it was unaffected by clenbuterol.