bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost-utility of cognitive behavioral therapy versus U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommended drugs and usual care in the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia: an economic evaluation alongside a 6-month randomized controlled trial
Authors: Luciano Juan V , D’Amico Francesco , Cerdà-Lafont Marta , Peñarrubia-María María T , Knapp Martin , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio I , Serrano-Blanco Antoni , García-Campayo Javier
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-recommended pharmacologic treatments (RPTs; pregabalin, duloxetine, and milnacipran) are effective treatment options for fibromyalgia (FM) syndrome and are currently recommended by clinical guidelines. We compared the cost-utility from the healthcare and societal perspectives of CBT versus RPT (combination of pregabalin + duloxetine) and usual care (TAU) groups in the treatment of FM.

Methods

The economic evaluation was conducted alongside a 6-month, multicenter, randomized, blinded, parallel group, controlled trial. In total, 168 FM patients from 41 general practices in Zaragoza (Spain) were randomized to CBT (n = 57), RPT (n = 56), or TAU (n = 55). The main outcome measures were Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs, assessed by using the EuroQoL-5D questionnaire) and improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQoL, assessed by using EuroQoL-5D visual analogue scale, EQ-VAS). The costs of healthcare use were estimated from patient self-reports (Client Service Receipt Inventory). Cost-utility was assessed by using the net-benefit approach and cost-effectiveness acceptability curves (CEACs).

Results

On average, the total costs per patient in the CBT group (1,847€) were significantly lower than those in patients receiving RPT (3,664€) or TAU (3,124€). Patients receiving CBT reported a higher quality of life (QALYs and EQ-VAS scores); the differences between groups were significant only for EQ-VAS. From a complete case-analysis approach (base case), the point estimates of the cost-effectiveness ratios resulted in dominance for the CBT group in all of the comparisons performed, by using both QALYs and EQ-VAS as outcomes. These findings were confirmed by bootstrap analyses, net-benefit curves, and CEACs. Two additional sensitivity analyses (intention-to-treat analysis and per-protocol analysis) indicated that the results were robust. The comparison of RPT with TAU yielded no clear preference for either treatment when using QALYs, although RPT was determined to be more cost-effective than TAU when evaluating EQ-VAS.

Conclusions

Because of lower costs, CBT is the most cost-effective treatment for adult FM patients. Implementation in routine medical care would require policymakers to develop more-widespread public access to trained and experienced therapists in group-based forms of CBT.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN10804772. Registered 29 September 2008.
Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of metacarpophalangeal joints reflects histological signs of synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Vordenbäumen Stefan , Schleich Christoph , Lögters Tim , Sewerin Philipp , Bleck Ellen , Pauly Thomas , Müller-Lutz Anja , Antoch Gerald , Schneider Matthias , Miese Falk , Ostendorf Benedikt
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Synovial inflammation and joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may progress despite clinical remission. Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) is increasingly used to detect synovial inflammation in RA. Although small joints such as metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints are mainly affected by RA, MRI findings have never been directly compared to histological synovitis in MCP synovial tissue. The objective of the current study was therefore to analyse if DCE-MRI relates to histological signs of synovitis small RA joints.

Methods

In 9 RA patients, DCE-MRI (3 Tesla, dynamic 2D T1 weighted turbo-flash sequence) of the hand was performed prior to arthroscopically-guided synovial biopsies from the second MCP of the imaged hand. Maximum enhancement (ME), rate of early enhancement, and maximum rate of enhancement were assessed in the MCP. Synovial biopsies were stained for determination of sublining CD68 and the Synovitis Score. Correlations between MRI and histological data were calculated according to Spearman.

Results

ME of the MCP significantly correlated to sublining CD68 staining (r = 0.750, P = 0.02), the Synovitis Score (r = 0.743, P = 0.02), and the subscores for lining layer hypertrophy (r = 0.789, P = 0.01) and cellular density (r = 0.842; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Perfusion imaging of synovial tissue in RA finger joints employing DCE-MRI reflects histological synovial inflammation. According to our study, ME is the most closely associated parameter amongst the measures considered.
Comparison of temporomandibular joint changes in Twin Block and Bionator appliance therapy: a magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Chavan Santosh J , Bhad Wasundhara A , Doshi Umal H
Published: September 2014

Background

The objective of the present study was to evaluate and compare temporomandibular joint changes especially disk-condyle-fossa relationship following functional treatment of skeletal class II division 1 malocclusion using Twin Block and Bionator appliances.

Methods

The total sample consisted of 30 subjects (13 males and 17 females) with class II division 1 malocclusion having mandibular retrognathism, in the age group of 9 to 14 years. Two treatment groups, i.e., Twin Block and Bionator groups, were formed which comprised ten subjects each, while a group of ten subjects served as the control group. The treatment effects were evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For the treatment groups, pretreatment MRI with wax construction bite was taken. For all subjects, MRI images with corrected sagittal T1 images were recorded in a maximal intercuspation position at pretreatment (R1) and in an unstrained retruded position at the end of a 6-month observation period (R2).

Results

At the end of 6 months of treatment, the condyles occupied a more anterior position in the fossa to its pretreatment position, while the disk moved more posteriorly in relation to the condyle. The control group showed no changes in the condyle and disk position over a period of 6 months.

Conclusions

Although the treatment group showed consistent forward positioning of the condyle and backward movement of the disk, long-term MRI findings in these groups will further clarify the adaptations between the condyle fossa and articular disk.
Optimal Duration of Low Molecular Weight Heparin for the Treatment of Cancer-Related Deep Vein Thrombosis: The Cancer-DACUS Study
Authors: Napolitano Mariasanta , Saccullo Giorgia , Malato Alessandra , Sprini Delia , Ageno Walter , Imberti Davide , Mascheroni Doris , Bucherini Eugenio , Gallucci Pina , D'Alessio Andrea , Prantera Tullia , Spadaro Pietro , Rotondo Stefano , Di Micco Pierpaolo , Oriana Vincenzo , Urbano Oreste , Recchia Francesco , Ghirarduzzi Angelo , Lo Coco Lucio , Mancuso Salvatrice , Casuccio Alessandra , Rini Giovam Battista , Siragusa Sergio
Published: September 2014

Purpose

We evaluated the role of residual vein thrombosis (RVT) to assess the optimal duration of anticoagulants in patients with cancer who have deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the lower limbs.

Patients and Methods

Patients with active cancer and a first episode of DVT treated with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for 6 months were eligible. Patients were managed according to RVT findings: those with RVT were randomly assigned to continue LMWH for an additional 6 months (group A1) or to discontinue it (group A2), and patients without RVT stopped LMWH (group B). The primary end point was recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) during the 1 year after disconinuation of LMWH, and the secondary end point was major bleeding. Analyses are from the time of random assignment.

Results

Between October 2005 and April 2010, 347 patients were enrolled. RVT was detected in 242 patients (69.7%); recurrence occurred in 22 of the 119 patients in group A1compared with 27 of 123 patients in group A2. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for group A2 versus A1 was 1.37 (95% CI, 0.7 to 2.5; P = .311). Three of the 105 patients in group B developed recurrent VTE; adjusted HR for group A1 versus B was 6.0 (95% CI, 1.7 to 21.2; P = .005). Three major bleeding events occurred in group A1, and two events each occurred in groups A2 and B. The HR for major bleeding in group A1 versus group A2 was 3.78 (95% CI, 0.77 to 18.58; P = .102). Overall, 42 patients (12.1%) died during follow-up as a result of cancer progression.

Conclusion

In patients with cancer with a first DVT, treated for 6 months with LMWH, absence of RVT identifies a population at low risk for recurrent thrombotic events. Continuation of LMWH in patients with RVT up to 1 year did not reduce recurrent VTE.
Randomized Comparison of Gemcitabine, Dexamethasone, and Cisplatin Versus Dexamethasone, Cytarabine, and Cisplatin Chemotherapy Before Autologous Stem-Cell Transplantation for Relapsed and Refractory Aggressive Lymphomas: NCIC-CTG LY.12
Authors: Crump Michael , Kuruvilla John , Couban Stephen , MacDonald David A. , Kukreti Vishal , Kouroukis C. Tom , Rubinger Morel , Buckstein Rena , Imrie Kevin R. , Federico Massimo , Di Renzo Nicola , Howson-Jan Kang , Baetz Tara , Kaizer Leonard , Voralia Michael , Olney Harold J. , Turner A. Robert , Sussman Jonathan , Hay Annette E. , Djurfeldt Marina S. , Meyer Ralph M. , Chen Bingshu E. , Shepherd Lois E.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

For patients with relapsed or refractory aggressive lymphoma, we hypothesized that gemcitabine-based therapy before autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) is as effective as and less toxic than standard treatment.

Patients and Methods

We randomly assigned 619 patients with relapsed/refractory aggressive lymphoma to treatment with gemcitabine, dexamethasone, and cisplatin (GDP) or to dexamethasone, cytarabine, and cisplatin (DHAP). Patients with B-cell lymphoma also received rituximab. Responding patients proceeded to stem-cell collection and ASCT. Coprimary end points were response rate after two treatment cycles and transplantation rate. The noninferiority margin for the response rate to GDP relative to DHAP was set at 10%. Secondary end points included event-free and overall survival, treatment toxicity, and quality of life.

Results

For the intention-to-treat population, the response rate with GDP was 45.2%; with DHAP the response rate was 44.0% (95% CI for difference, −9.0% to 6.7%), meeting protocol-defined criteria for noninferiority of GDP (P = .005). Similar results were obtained in a per-protocol analysis. The transplantation rates were 52.1% with GDP and 49.3% with DHAP (P = .44). At a median follow-up of 53 months, no differences were detected in event-free survival (HR, 0.99; stratified log-rank P = .95) or overall survival (HR, 1.03; P = .78) between GDP and DHAP. Treatment with GDP was associated with less toxicity (P < .001) and need for hospitalization (P < .001), and preserved quality of life (P = .04).

Conclusion

For patients with relapsed or refractory aggressive lymphoma, in comparison with DHAP, treatment with GDP is associated with a noninferior response rate, similar transplantation rate, event-free survival, and overall survival, less toxicity and hospitalization, and superior quality of life.
Risk of Incremental Toxicities and Associated Costs of New Anticancer Drugs: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Niraula Saroj , Amir Eitan , Vera-Badillo Francisco , Seruga Bostjan , Ocana Alberto , Tannock Ian F.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

There are increasing reports of rare but serious toxicities caused by new anticancer drugs, and there are costs associated with their management.

Methods

We identified anticancer drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration from 2000 to 2011 and pivotal trials supporting their registration. Twelve frequent grade 3 to 4 adverse event (AEs) were weighted and pooled in a meta-analysis. Estimates of incremental drug prices and incremental costs for management of AEs were calculated according to type of new agent based on target specificity.

Results

We identified 41 studies comprising 27,539 patients and evaluating 19 experimental drugs. Agents directed against a specific molecular target on cancer cells had a lower incidence of grade 3 to 4 toxicities compared with controls (median risk ratio [RR], 0.67; P = .22), whereas less-specific targeted agents, including angiogenesis inhibitors (median RR, 3.39; P < .001) and chemotherapeutic agents (median RR, 1.73; P < .001), were more toxic. Risk was increased regardless of whether the control arm contained active treatment (RR, 2.11; P < .001) or not (RR, 3.02; P < .001). Median incremental drug price for experimental agents was $6,000 per patient per month. Median cost of managing toxicity was low compared with drug costs but higher than controls for treatment with less-specific targeted agents and chemotherapies.

Conclusion

Newly approved anticancer drugs are associated with increased toxicity, except for agents with a specific molecular target on cancer cells. Management of toxicity leads to a small increase in overall cost of treatment. Frequency of toxicity and associated costs are likely higher in less-selected patients treated in general oncologic practice. Development of biomarker-driven agents should be encouraged.
Chevron formation of the zebrafish muscle segments
Authors: Rost Fabian , Eugster Christina , Schröter Christian , Oates Andrew C. , Brusch Lutz
Published: September 2014

The muscle segments of fish have a folded shape, termed a chevron, which is thought to be optimal for the undulating body movements of swimming. However, the mechanism shaping the chevron during embryogenesis is not understood. Here, we use time-lapse microscopy of developing zebrafish embryos spanning the entire somitogenesis period to quantitate the dynamics of chevron shape development. Comparing such time courses with the start of movements in wildtype zebrafish and analyzing immobile mutants, we show that the previously implicated body movements do not play a role in chevron formation. Further, the monotonic increase of chevron angle along the anteroposterior axis revealed by our data constrains or rules out possible contributions by previously proposed mechanisms. In particular, we find that muscle pioneers are not required for chevron formation. We put forward a tension-and-resistance mechanism involving interactions between intra-segmental tension and segment boundaries. To evaluate this mechanism, we derive and analyze a mechanical model of a chain of contractile and resisting elements. The predictions of this model are verified by comparison to experimental data. Altogether, our results support the notion that a simple physical mechanism suffices to self-organize the observed spatiotemporal pattern in chevron formation.
Unpredictable chronic stress decreases inhibitory avoidance learning in Tuebingen Long-Fin zebrafish (Danio rerio Hamilton): stronger effects in the resting phase than in the active phase
Authors: Manuel Remy , Gorissen Marnix , Zethof Jan , Ebbesson Lars O.E. , van de Vis Hans , Flik Gert , van den Bos Ruud
Published: September 2014

Zebrafish (Danio rerio Hamilton) are increasingly used as model to study effects of chronic stress on brain and behaviour. In rodents unpredictable chronic stress (UCS) has a stronger effect on physiology and behaviour during the active phase than the resting phase. Here, we applied UCS during day-time (active phase) for 7 and 14 days or during the night-time (resting phase) for 7 nights in an in-house reared Tuebingen Long-Fin (TLF) zebrafish strain. Following UCS, inhibitory avoidance learning was assessed using a 3-day paradigm where fish learn to avoid swimming from a white to a black compartment where they will receive a 3V shock. Latencies of entering the black compartment were recorded before training (day 1; first shock) and after training on day 2 (second shock) and day 3 (no shock, tissue sampling). Fish were sacrificed to quantify whole-body cortisol content and expression levels of genes related to stress, fear and anxiety in the telencephalon. Following 14 days UCS during the day, inhibitory avoidance learning decreased (lower latencies on day 2 and 3); minor effects were found following 7 days UCS. Following 7 nights UCS inhibitory avoidance learning decreased (lower latency on day 3). Whole-body cortisol levels showed a steady increase compared to controls (100%) from 7 days UCS (139%), 14 days UCS (174%l) to 7 nights UCS (231%), suggestive of an increasing stress load. Only in the 7 nights UCS group expression levels of corticoid receptor genes (mr, gr-alpha, gr-beta) and of bdnf were increased. These changes are discussed as adaptive mechanisms to maintain neuronal integrity and prevent overload, and indicative of a state of high stress load. Overall, our data suggest that stressors during the resting phase have a stronger impact than during the active phase. Our data warrant further studies on the effect of UCS on stress-axis related genes, especially gr-beta; in mammals this receptor has been implicated in glucocorticoid resistance and depression.
The amphibious fishKryptolebias marmoratususes alternate strategies to maintain oxygen delivery during aquatic hypoxia and air exposure
Authors: Turko Andy J. , Robertson Cayleih E. , Bianchini Kristin , Freeman Megan , Wright Patricia A.
Published: September 2014

Despite the abundance of oxygen in atmospheric air relative to water, the initial loss of respiratory surface area and accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood of amphibious fishes during emersion may result in hypoxemia. Given that the ability to respond to low oxygen conditions predates the vertebrate invasion of land, we hypothesized that amphibious fishes maintain O2 uptake and transport while emersed by mounting a co-opted hypoxia response. We acclimated the amphibious fish Kryptolebias marmoratus, which are able to remain active for weeks in both air and water, for 7d to normoxic brackish water (15‰, ~21 kPa O2; control), aquatic hypoxia (~3.6 kPa), normoxic air (~21 kPa), or aerial hypoxia (~13.6 kPa). Angiogenesis in the skin and bucco-opercular chamber was pronounced in air- versus water-acclimated fish, but not in response to hypoxia. Aquatic hypoxia increased blood O2 carrying capacity via a large (40%) increase in red blood cell density and a small increase in hemoglobin-O2 affinity (P50 decreased 11%). In contrast, air exposure increased hemoglobin-O2 affinity (decreased P50) by 25% without affecting the number of red blood cells. Acclimation to aerial hypoxia both increased O2 carrying capacity and decreased hemoglobin-O2 affinity. These results suggest that O2 transport is regulated both by O2 availability and also independently by air exposure. The ability of the hematological system to respond to air exposure independently of O2 availability may allow extant amphibious fishes and also primitive tetrapods to cope with the complex challenges of aerial respiration during the invasion of land.
Developing a social media profile for a veterinary practice
Authors: Hamlin Jennifer
Published: September 2014

Setting up a social media profile for a veterinary practice requires good planning, knowledge about the various social networks and an investment in professional branding. It also requires selecting a suitable person for the job of posting content and interacting with the profile's fan base. Establishing a large fan base can be a challenge, but with professionalism and consistently good content the profile will engage fans, develop loyalty to the practice and potentially bring in new clients as well as increase visibility in the wider community.
Canine angiostrongylosis: an update
Authors: Morgan Eric R
Published: September 2014

The canine ‘lungworm’, Angiostrongylus vasorum, continues to grab the headlines when it comes to parasite infections of dogs in the UK. Geographical spread appears to continue apace, with fresh evidence of autocthonous infections in northern England and Scotland, leading practices to constantly re-evaluate their advice to clients on preventive worming regimens, as well as their approach to respiratory and other presentations in dogs. Recent developments offer improved information in support of practice decisions in these areas. In particular, a new point-of-care test based on detection of circulating worm antigen should help to support definitive diagnosis, so often elusive using previous tests, and to revolutionise awareness of the local level of risk. This and related serological tests are underpinning large-scale surveys to provide new epidemiological insights. The options for treatment and control of infection are also expanding, with milbemycin oxime joining moxidectin in having been shown to prevent patent infection. Surveys of clinical incidence suggest that increased awareness and improved control of the parasite can quell disease in identified ‘hotspots’. Therefore, although the threat of angiostrongylosis seems to be increasing in the UK, and extending to new areas, a growing toolkit for diagnosis and control places the veterinary professions in a strong position to counter this threat. Veterinary nurses have a particularly important role in providing laboratory support for evidence-based medicine, and for leading informed discussion of risks with dog owners. This should enable appropriate, risk-based advice on preventive worming regimens for dogs. Ongoing research suggests that other factors, such as age, breed, and individual behaviour, might also be taken into account to ensure that dogs are appropriately protected from this often mild, but potentially fatal, parasitic infection.
Assessing pain and emotional wellbeing in feline patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Cherry Helen
Published: September 2014

Pain is both a sensory and emotional experience and can be measured with the use of pain scoring charts. Pain scoring is seen as a valuable tool especially as an aid to post-operative nursing care. Currently pain scoring systems are designed for assessing acute post-operative pain and have been validated for use in dogs. However they can be useful in assessing pain experienced in cats suffering from diseases such as chronic kidney disease, and can assist the nursing care provided to patients hospitalised for treatment of the disease. Patient care could be improved if a more holistic approach to nursing was adopted which encouraged veterinary nurses to not only consider the physical aspects of pain but also the emotional side.
Travel regulations are changing…
Authors: Stokes Laura
Published: September 2014

Most of us should now be well accustomed to the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) regulations (998/2003) that came into force in the UK on 1 January 2012. But many people may not realise that further amendments to these regulations are set to come into effect on 29th December 2014.
Methods forIn SituSIMS Microanalysis of Boron and its Isotopes in Palagonite
Authors: Pauly Bruce D. , Williams Lynda B. , Hervig Richard L. , Schiffman Peter , Zierenberg Robert A.
Published: September 2014

Boron has been shown to be a useful trace element in clay-mineralization reactions, raising the possibility that B studies may provide a means to investigate environmental controls on palagonitization. The objective of the present study was to address calibration, matrix effects, and B exchangeability issues such that meaningful secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) microanalysis of B in thin sections of palagonite will be feasible. Silver Hill illite (IMt-1) was found to be a suitable calibration reference material, based on compositional similarity, relatively high B content, and ease of mounting on thin-section samples for SIMS microanalysis. Matrix effects of borated sideromelane and illite were compared and found to be similar, confirming previous studies which showed no matrix effects for B among minerals. Boron substitutes for Si in tetrahedral sites and also can be adsorbed in exchangeable sites of 2:1 clay minerals. Similarly, B can be found in tetrahedral and exchangeable sites within palagonite, which consists of both layered and amorphous volumes. In order to measure tetrahedral B content and isotopic ratio in the palagonite, exchangeable B was removed by soaking sample thin sections in a 1 M NH4Cl solution until exchangeable cation concentrations were constant. Treated samples showed decreases in B content and isotopic ratio with exchange. Extraction of exchangeable B permits the direct measurement of tetrahedral B content and isotopic ratio. The exchange technique devised and tested here should have broad applicability to thin-section microanalysis of B in clay and clay-like materials where cation exchange can be used for surface-analytical techniques. The present study represents an initial attempt to address samplepreparation, calibration, and potential matrix-effects problems for analyses by SIMS. Further refinements may improve the accuracy of the measurements, but the results presented here indicate that meaningful measurements are possible.
Regeneration process from seed crop to saplings – a case study in uneven-aged Norway spruce-dominated stands in southern Finland
Authors: Saksa Timo
Published: September 2014

The dynamics of spruce regeneration, from seed crop to saplings, was studied based on five permanent plots in uneven-aged, spruce-dominated, boreal forest stands, cut with single-tree selection in the beginning of the 1990âs. The annual fluctuation of the spruce seed crop was very similar in uneven-aged and even-aged stands. The correlation between seed crop and number of germinants was significant; but stem number, basal area or volume of the stand did not influence on seedling emergence. The effects of good seed crops were seen as peaks or an increase in the number of germinants and smallest seedlings. The mean number of âstabilisedâ spruce seedlings (height 11 cm to 130 cm) varied from 6000 ha to over 25 000 spruce seedlings ha from one monitoring plot to another. On a monitoring plot the number of âstabilisedâ spruce seedlings was stable over time. Neither stand basal area nor stand volume influenced the number of âstabilisedâ spruce seedlings, but the height of these seedlings was higher on subplots with lower stand volume and smaller basal area. In this study the monitoring period, 5â10 years, was too short to obtain reliable figures for ingrowth, i.e. the transition of seedlings to the sapling stage (h > 130 cm). The adjusted mean ingrowth was 26 stems ha year.â1â1â1â1
Natural development of stand structure in peatland Scots pine following drainage: results based on long-term monitoring of permanent sample plots
Authors: Sarkkola Sakari , Hökkä Hannu , Penttilä Timo
Published: September 2014

We studied the dynamics of stand structure on drained peatland sites in Scots pine dominated stands untreated with thinnings. The data consisted of consecutive stand measurements in 10 permanent sample plots where the monitoring periods varied from 29 to 66 years. We assumed that the standâs structural development was driven by the natural processes of regeneration, growth, and mortality, all related to inter-tree competition within the stand. The DBH distributions of live and dead trees at different times of post-drainage stand development â smoothed by Weibull function â were analysed to characterise the change in stand structure. The initial uneven-sized structure of the natural, widely-spaced stands became more uneven during the first decades following drainage due to enhanced regeneration. Later, as stand density and mean tree size continuously increased, the DBH distributions approached bell-shaped distributions. Accordingly, the suppressed trees showed their highest mortality rate during the first decades, but the peak of the mortality distribution shifted to larger trees along stand succession. The change in structure was faster in southern Finland than in northern Finland. We assumed the changes in stand dynamics reflected increased inter-tree competition, initiated by enhanced site productivity and increased stand stocking resulting from the ditching operation.
Equilibrium curves and growth models to deal with forests in transition to uneven-aged structure – application in two sample stands
Authors: Sterba Hubert
Published: September 2014

Stem number distributions in uneven-aged forests are assumed to be stable, if they follow special functions, e.g. de Liocourtâs reverse J-shaped breast height diameter distribution. These distributions therefore are frequently regarded as a target in all-aged forests. Intending to convert an even-aged forest or any other forest, not yet exhibiting this sort of equilibrium, towards a steady state forest, the question rises, how to choose an appropriate equilibrium curve and how to achieve this stem number distribution by an appropriate thinning and harvesting schedule. Two stands are investigated: One dominated by Norway spruce (Picea abies), having developed from a 120 year old even-aged stand 25 years ago, after several âtarget diameter thinningsâ. The other one is a mixed species stand of Norway spruce, white fir (Abies alba), larch (Larix europea), common beech (Fagus silvatica), and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), having lost its typical uneven-aged structure 20 years ago. These stands were used, together with the distance independent individual tree growth model PrognAus, to reveal that 1) there are more than only one equilibrium curve per stand, 2) not every hypothesised equilibrium can be reached with any stand, 3) an equilibrium in stem number does not necessarily mean a stable species distribution, and 4) growth models provide an excellent help to decide between several equilibrium curves and harvesting schedules to reach them.
Cost-effective measures for diffuse load abatement in forestry
Authors: Matero Jukka
Published: September 2014

This paper theoretically and empirically analyzes the design of cost-effective diffuse load abatement in forestry. Harvesting with related forest regeneration and drainage maintenance increases nutrient leaching, while riparian buffer strips and adjustments in drainage maintenance technology can be used to prevent this leaching. By utilizing a two-period model it is shown that cost-efficiency requires the establishment of a buffer strip system and a reduction in both current harvesting, and in drainage maintenance â if practized â relative to the private optimum to reflect their effects on water pollution. A simulation analysis was conducted to assess the magnitudes of the decision variables of the theoretical model, as well as to evaluate alternative technologies for the implementation and use of buffer strips and for the adjustment of drainage maintenance. The results for a representative forest holding in the southern half of Finland show that it is possible to considerably reduce total phosphorus leaching with minor cost.
Stem straightness and compression wood in a 22-year-old stand of container-grown Scots pine trees
Authors: Warensjö Mats , Rune Göran
Published: September 2014

The distribution of compression wood in relation to eccentric growth and development of stem straightness was studied in a 22-year-old Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) stand in central Sweden that was established with container-grown seedlings. Stem straightness was measured on the same 440 trees in 1986 and 1997. The number of stems with straight base sections increased from 60% in 1986 to 89% in 1997. Measurements of 72 sample trees in 2001 showed that 96% of the trees had developed straight stem bases. External geometry data of the logs was obtained with a Rema 3D log scanner. A sub-sample of 16 trees was randomly selected for analysis of compression wood distribution and eccentricity measurements. From each tree, 11 discs were cut at every 60 cm along the stem. All discs, except one, contained compression wood. Compression wood and pith eccentricity was most pronounced near the stem base but not significantly correlated to basal sweep. Severe compression wood content was correlated to pith eccentricity and bow height. In general, correlations were better for the basal sections of the logs. Even though most trees were straight, they contained large amounts of compression wood. It is evident that eccentric growth and compression wood formation play major roles in the development of stem straightness. In several stems, a spiral compression wood distribution pattern was found. Reasons for this are discussed.
Cambium dynamics of Pinus sylvestris and Betula spp. in the northern boreal forest in Finland
Authors: Schmitt Uwe , Jalkanen Risto , Eckstein Dieter
Published: September 2014

Wood formation dynamics of pine and birch along a south-north transect in Finnish Lapland were determined by the pinning technique. For all trees at all sites a more or less sigmoid shape of the wood formation intensity is characteristic with a slow beginning, a faster growth in the middle and a decreasing activity towards the end of the vegetation period. Wood formation of pine started at sites 1â3 (southern sites) in the second week of June and at sites 4 and 5 (northern sites) only in the last week of June, whereas wood formation ended within the first half of August. Wood formation of birch started in the second half of June and ended around the beginning of August. First cells were laid down by pine and birch when the temperature sum had reached the level of 85 to 90 degree days and 110 to 120 degree days, respectively. The intensity of wood formation in pine was highest in July, in birch within two weeks in the middle of July. Wood formation in pine lasted for about seven weeks at the southernmost and about six weeks at the northernmost site. In birch, the duration of wood formation was about five weeks at the southernmost site and around three weeks at the other sites.
Variation in soil nutrient concentrations and bulk density within peatland forest sites
Authors: Laiho Raija , Penttilä Timo , Laine Jukka
Published: September 2014

The within-site variability of soil characteristics on sites with different soil types remains poorly quantified, although this information is crucial for the success of research on soil properties, and especially for monitoring soil properties over time. We used coefficients of variation and multilevel variance component models to examine the within-site variation of soil (0â30 cm) mineral nutrient concentrations (P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, mg gâ1; Mn, Zn, mg gâ1) and bulk density (kg mâ3) on boreal deep-peat sites. We then evaluated the reliability of the site-level estimates (sample means) obtained using different sampling intensities (numbers of samples per site). Our 11 sites represented a single original site type within the oligotrophic nutrient level. Two of the sites were undrained while the rest had been drained for forestry at different points in time. Overall, P concentrations showed the smallest and Mn concentrations the largest within-site variation. The sampling depth contributed more than 50% of the total variance in all other characteristics except the concentrations of P and Fe, and bulk density. The variance proportions of peatland basin, site (within basin), and sampling location (within site) varied by sampling depth for most soil characteristics. The estimates obtained when using a certain number of samples per site were always more reliable for the 0â30 cm layerâs composite samples than for any single 10-cm layer at any depth sampled. On average, it was found that between 4 (P) and some 200 (Mn) samples per site would be needed for the estimates to have a theoretical 10% maximum deviation.
Contrasting tree-ring data with fire record in a pine-dominated landscape in the Komi Republic (Eastern European Russia): recovering a common climate signal
Authors: Drobyshev Igor , Niklasson Mats , Angelstam Per
Published: September 2014

For the period 1420â1960 we contrasted fire events reconstructed at 14 sites distributed over a 50 km x 50 km area in the central part of the Komi Republic (European Russia) with a set of tree-ring width chronologies of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), developed for the same area. Our aim was to infer common climatic information contained in tree-ring variables and independently dated fire events with the help of a superposed epoch analysis. The strongest weatherâgrowth link was shown for the latewood width, which was positively correlated with the temperature in AprilâMay and JulyâAugust of the current growth season and with previous year precipitation in JulyâAugust. Earlywood width was positively affected by previous year precipitation in May and November. The relationship between yearly ring variables and multiple-site fire events was dependent on the seasonal timing of fire events as recorded in the scars. In years with early-season fires (which made up 37% of all fires dated with seasonal resolution) total ring width was significantly narrower. In years with late-season fires (63%) total ring width, earlywood, and latewood width were significantly wider. Years with late-season fires tended to be associated with local highs of the latewood width chronologies over 1400â1960, which implied a link between decadal-scale climate variation and fire regime of the area.
Comparison of short-wood forwarding systems used in Iberia
Authors: Spinelli Raffaele , Owende Philip , Ward Shane , Tornero Maximiano
Published: September 2014

Time studies were conducted to quantify the productivity and the operational cost of mechanized wood extraction in the Iberian Eucalyptus plantations. The key objectives were: to determine the significant variables that influence machine productivity and extraction costs in shortwood transport within the forest and to find the basis for optimization of shortwood transport with respect to Eucalyptus forest stands. Three machines were selected for study, each representative of the different log forwarding regimes that are used in Iberia and that could be extended to most of Southern Europe. These were: 1) a modified articulated dumper, 2) a purpose-built forwarder and 3) a farm tractor paired to a twin-axle forestry trailer. It was observed that the productivity and the cost of shortwood extraction may vary from 6 to 15 fresh tonnes/SMH and 3.5 to 6.5 Euro/fresh tonne, respectively. It was estimated that the optimal extraction route network covered approximately 10% of the forest surface. It was also observed that the modified dumper is the most-productive unit, and given its higher speed (> 5 km/h) and larger payload (16 tonnes), it is the economic choice for extraction distances in excess of 1000 m. However, it also generates the most severe rutting, hence it should be used with caution. For extraction distances below 1000 m, the light purpose-built forwarder compares favourably with the modified dumper, while generating less than half the site disturbance. The tractor-trailer combination is economically inferior to the modified dumper and the light forwarder, and should be regarded as a complement to the main extraction fleet and where short-haul operations are required. Under the assumptions of the study, light forwarders (8-tonne payload) may become competitive with heavier ones when road density is at least 6 m/ha, so that extraction distance does not exceed 1 km. This study provides a model for estimating the productivity and the cost of timber forwarding under varying conditions.
Addition of stabilized wood ashes to Swedish coniferous stands on mineral soils - effects on stem growth and needle nutrient concentrations
Authors: Jacobson Staffan
Published: September 2014

Increasing use of forest fuels for energy production is generating increasing quantities of wood ash. A common understanding is that this ash should be spread in forests to counteract soil acidification and potential future nutrient deficiencies, and thus help sustain long-term forest productivity. A series of seven field experiments was established in Sweden in 1988â1995 to study the stem growth and needle nutrient concentrations of 30â60-year-old Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) stands on mineral soil after additions of wood ash in different doses or a combination of wood ash and N. The results showed that the most pronounced growth responses occurred when N was added, either alone or in combination with wood ash. The stem growth responses to additions of wood ash without N were small and variable, and not statistically significant at any of the studied experimental sites. However, there were indications that the addition of wood ash may increase stem-wood growth on fertile sites and decrease it on less fertile sites. In the short term, the addition of wood ash tended to increase the needle nutrient concentrations of most analyzed elements, except for N, but this could not be correlated to responses in stem growth.
U.S. landowner behavior, land use and land cover changes, and climate change mitigation
Authors: Alig Ralph
Published: September 2014

Landowner behavior is a major determinant of land use and land cover changes, an important consideration for policy analysts concerned with global change. Study of landowner behavior aids in designing more effective incentives for inducing land use and land cover changes to help mitigate climate change by reducing net greenhouse gas emissions. Afforestation, deforestation, reforestation, and timber harvest are the most frequent land management practices that influence forest carbon stocks and flux. Research studies provide estimates of how private landowners respond to market signals and government programs and how they alter land management. For example, landowners have tended to retain subsidized afforested stands well beyond program life in the United States, suggesting that similar programs for climate change mitigation could result in high rates of retention. At the same time, policy makers need to be aware that unintended consequences of policies can lead to significantly different outcomes than envisioned, including leakage possibilities.
Clonal variation in nutrient content in woody biomass of hybrid aspen (Populus tremula L. x P. tremuloides Michx.)
Authors: Rytter Lars , Stener Lars-Göran
Published: September 2014

Differences in the nutrient concentrations and nutrient amounts of stems and branches amongst clones of hybrid aspen (Populus tremula L. x P. tremuloides Michx.) were investigated. Seven clones with superior and seven with medium growth rates were selected from a test of 119 clones in southern Sweden. Four trees per clone were randomly identified and harvested in dormant conditions. Sample discs from the stems and branches were collected and analysed for N, K, P, Ca, Mg, and S concentrations, as well as wood density. The analyses revealed significant genetic differences in wood density, K, P, and Mg concentrations in the stems. There were weak (non-significant) and negative genetic correlations between stem volume and concentrations of all the nutrients, except potassium, suggesting that nutrient-efficient clones could be selected without significantly sacrificing genetic gain for growth. In the branches K, Ca, and Mg concentrations differed significantly among clones. After selecting more nutrient efficient clones, the potential savings of nutrients compared with current hybrid aspen material was estimated to be around 5%, which seems fairly low, at least in a short-term perspective. However, the use of clones with different nutrient storage strategies may be regarded as a possible way in the long run to save nutrients in hybrid aspen ecosystems, or of removing them when sludge is applied.
Slits in container wall improve root structure and stem straightness of outplanted Scots pine seedlings
Authors: Rune Göran
Published: September 2014

Root structure and basal sweep were measured on 6-year-old Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) trees at two sites with different soil fertility. Each site was planted with seedlings of identical origin after nursery cultivation in either solidwall container types with vertical ribs or in slitwall container types. Neither container design nor container volume affected tree height or stem diameter on the two sites. The transversal area of lateral roots was larger than the transversal area of bottom roots for the two container types at both sites. The proportion of bottom root transversal area to the total root transversal area was larger in the seedlings growing on the low fertility site than in those growing in the high fertility site for both container types. Seedlings cultivated in slitwall containers had a larger root area in proportion to stem diameter and had less root spiralling compared to the trees cultivated in solidwall containers. At the high fertility site, trees from the slitwall container type had straighter stem bases than seedlings grown in solidwall containers. At the low fertility site, differences in basal sweep formation were small between the container types. Reasons for this are discussed.
Cost-plus-loss analyses of forest inventory strategies based on kNN-assigned reference sample plot data
Authors: Holmström Hampus , Kallur Hans , Ståhl Göran
Published: September 2014

The usefulness of kNN (k Nearest Neighbour)-assigned reference sample plot data as a basis for forest management planning was studied. Cost-plus-loss analysis was applied, whereby the inventory cost for a specific method is added to the expected loss due to non-optimal forestry activities caused by erroneous descriptions of the forest state. Four different strategies for data acquisition were evaluated: 1) kNN imputation of sample plots based on traditional stand record information, 2) imputation based on plot-wise aerial photograph interpretation in combination with stand record information, 3) sample plot inventory in the field with 5 plots per stand, and 4) sample plot inventory with 10 plots per stand. Expected losses were derived as mean values of differences between the maximum net present value and the corresponding value obtained when the treatment schedule believed to be optimal (based on data simulated according to method 1â4) was selected. The optimal choice of method was found to depend on factors such as stand maturity, stand area, and time to next treatment (thinning or clearcutting). In general, the field sample plot methods were competitive in large mature stands, especially when the time to the next (optimal) treatment was short. By in each stand (within an estate) employing the method with the lowest cost-plus-loss rather than choosing the method that performed best on average for the entire estate, the total cost for inventory at the estate level could be decreased by 15â50%. However, it was found difficult to identify what method should optimally be employed in a stand based on general stand descriptions.
Heavy-metal pollution and remediation of forest soil around the Harjavalta Cu-Ni smelter, in SW Finland
Authors: Kiikkilä Oili
Published: September 2014

Heavy metals and sulphur have been emitted from the Cu-Ni smelter at Harjavalta since 1945. This article reviews the work that has been published in scientific journals after 1975 concerning heavy metal deposition and the effects of pollution on forest ecosystem around Harjavalta. The pollution has had diverse effects on boreal forest ecosystem, e.g. vegetation, nutrient cycle mediated by microbiota and soil animals, herbivorous insects and pathogens, resistance mechanisms of vegetation, and birds. The deposition of heavy metals has increased up to 30 km distance from the smelter. At 8 km distance the ecosystem began to approximate an undisturbed ecosystem where only slight changes in the understorey vegetation were observed. At 4 km distance the species composition of different ecosystem components (vegetation, insects, birds, soil microbiota) had changed and the growth of trees was retarded. At 0.5â1 km distance, where the nutrient cycling was disturbed and only the most resistant organisms were surviving, the ecosystem had ceased to carry out its essential functions. Remediation through liming or mulching with organic matter, of forest soil has had some positive effects on the ecosystem.