bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eruptive Vellus Hair Cysts Presenting as Multiple Periorbital Papules in a 13‐Year‐Old Boy
Authors: Reep Michael D. , Robson Kristi J.
Published: March 2003

Eruptive vellus hair cysts (EVHCs) are small, cystic papules that usually occur on the chest and proximal extremities of children and adults. The etiology is unknown. EVHCs of the eyelids have been reported infrequently. We describe a 13‐year‐old boy who presented with symptomatic EVHCs in a periorbital distribution.
Hereditary Hypotrichosis Simplex of the Scalp
Authors: Vázquez María Rodríguez , Rodríguez Ricardo Ruiz , Tapia Aurora Guerra , Diez Luis Iglesias
Published: March 2003

Hereditary hypotrichosis simplex of the scalp is a genotrichosis characterized by sparse or absent scalp hair without structural defects, in the absence of other ectodermal or systemic abnormalities. We describe two Spanish families with hypotrichosis of the scalp. We believe these families have Toribio and Quiñones type hereditary hypotrichosis simplex of the scalp.
Anticonvulsant Hypersensitivity Syndrome
Authors: Kaur Sukhjot , Sarkar Rashmi , Thami Gurvinder P. , Kanwar Amrinder J.
Published: March 2003

Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome is an acute, life‐threatening, idiosyncratic drug reaction seen with the aromatic antiepileptic drugs, phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and primidone, with frequent cross sensitivity. It usually occurs 2–8 weeks after initiation of therapy and the hallmark clinical features are fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy. Hematologic abnormalities such as eosinophilia, atypical lymphocytes, and internal organ involvement also occur with varying severity. A case of hypersensitivity syndrome due to carbamazepine with cross sensitivity to phenytoin is reported. It is emphasized that this serious drug reaction with diverse clinical presentations should be recognized and treated promptly.
Marie Unna Hypotrichosis in a Chinese Family
Authors: Wong S. N. , Giam Y. C. , Lee Y. S.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Marie Unna hypotrichosis is a rare, autosomal dominant hypotrichosis characterized by sparse or absent hair at birth with regrowth of coarse, wiry hair from childhood, followed by progressive loss on approaching puberty. We report a Chinese mother and child seen at our skin center with features of Marie Unna hypotrichosis. The family pedigree showed two affected sisters and one affected brother, consistent with an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. The clinical, genetic, histologic, and ultrastructural features were consistent with the diagnosis of Marie Unna hypotrichosis. This is the first Chinese family reported.
Segmental Pigmented Purpura
Authors: Pock Lumír , Čapková Štěpánka
Published: March 2003

Abstract: A segmental distribution of pigmented purpura (PP) is rare. Our patient presented at 5 years of age with red‐brown petechial macules and telangiectases on her chest, the inner and dorsal aspects of the right upper extremity, and the dorsal aspect of the hand, which had developed slowly over the previous 7 months. The lesions were intermittently pruritic. A biopsy from the right arm revealed discrete hydropic degeneration of the basal layer of the epidermis, dilation of the blood vessels, numerous extravasated erythrocytes and lymphocytes, and lymphocytes in the lower part of the epidermis. The skin disease resolved almost completely within 18 months. The general physical examination revealed an open foramen ovale, slight hypogammaglobulinemia (G and A), and enhanced fragility of the blood vessels.
Cutaneous Silica Granuloma in a Child
Authors: Kaya Tamer Irfan , Kokturk Aysin , Polat Ayse , Anadolu Rana , Tursen Umit , Ikizoglu Guliz
Published: March 2003

Abstract: A 12‐year‐old girl had a 4‐year history of two asymptomatic, sharply demarcated, granulomatous lesions on her face. The lesions did not respond to topical steroids and histopathologic examination of biopsy specimens showed granulomatous inflammation. Since cutaneous leishmaniasis is endemic where the patient lived, she was diagnosed as chronic cutaneous leishmaniasis but did not respond to meglumine antimoniate treatment. Reexamination of the biopsy specimens under polarized light revealed numerous birefringent crystalline particles, and cutaneous silica granuloma was the final diagnosis. The lesions were treated with intralesional triamcinolone acetonide and completely disappeared. We report this case of cutaneous silica granuloma, which is unusual in children, and emphasize the importance of polarized light microscopic examination of granulomatous skin diseases.
Low Density Lipoprotein Hemoperfusion by Direct Adsorption of Lipoproteins from Whole Blood (DALI Apheresis): Clinical Experience from a Single Center
Authors: Bosch  , Lennertz  , Kordes  , Samtleben
Published: March 2003

The elimination of low density lipoprotein (LDL) and lipoprotein (a) (Lp[a]) by conventional LDL apheresis techniques can only be achieved in a cell‐free medium and thus requires the initial separation of plasma from the blood cells. The present paper describes the first LDL hemoperfusion system which is able to adsorb LDL and Lp(a) directly from whole blood. This simplifies the procedure substantially. The adsorber consists of polyacrylate ligands linked to a modified polyacrylamide matrix. These negatively charged polyacrylate ligands interact with the positively charged apoprotein B moiety of LDL and Lp(a), which results in selective adsorption of these lipoproteins onto the column. Three hypercholesterolemic patients suffering from overt atherosclerotic complications were treated weekly by direct adsorption of lipoproteins (DALI) (n = 20 sessions each). All patients were on the highest tolerated dose of cholesterol synthesis enzyme (CSE) inhibitors. About 1.3 patient blood volumes were treated per session. The anticoagulation was performed with acid citrate dextrose (ACD‐A). The following acute reductions were achieved: LDL: 66%; Lp(a): 63%; and triglycerides: 29%. High density lipoprotein (HDL) (− 13%) and fibrinogen (−16%) were not substantially reduced. The sessions were essentially uneventful. Due to a low ACD‐A infusion rate, no hypocalcemic episodes were registered. One patient on enalapril was treated without complications when this angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor was withdrawn 2 days prior to apheresis. In summary, in our hands, DALI apheresis proved to be a simple, safe, and efficient method of lipid apheresis in hypercholesterolemic patients refractory to conservative lipid lowering therapy.
Low‐Density Lipoprotein Apheresis and Changes in Plasma Components
Authors: Kojima Shunichi
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Several different techniques of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) apheresis are available for management of severe hypercholesterolemia. Among them, the adsorption system with a dextran‐sulfate cellulose (DSC) column is most widely used. In addition to adsorption of LDL, DSC adsorbs plasma constituents that have the following characteristics: proteins containing apolipoprotein B (Lp[a]); proteins involved in the initial contact phase of the intrinsic coagulation pathway (coagulation factor XII, high‐molecular‐weight kininogen and prekallikrein); factors with lipophilic characteristics (coagulation factor VII, coagulation factor VIII, and vitamin E); and proteins with adhesive or other characteristics (von Willebrand factor, fibronectin, serum amyloid P component, hepatocyte growth factor). The adsorption of these proteins seems to ameliorate prevention or regression of atherosclerosis. Moreover, plasma treatment by the DSC column may be useful for treatment of inexorable diseases, such as amyloidosis. On the other hand, the DSC column generates bradykinin by activation of the initial contact phase of the intrinsic coagulation pathway. Bradykinin generation may explain the functional improvement in the circulatory system, as well as hypotension during LDL apheresis, which is observed in patients taking ACE inhibitors.
Improvement of Hemorheology by DALI Apheresis: Acute Effects on Plasma Viscosity and Erythrocyte Aggregation in Hypercholesterolemic Patients
Authors: Bosch T. , Wendler T. , Jaeger B.R. , Samtleben W.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Plasma viscosity (PV) and erythrocyte aggregation (EA) are determinants of microcirculation, especially under the compromised hemodynamic conditions resulting from atherosclerosis. Direct adsorption of lipoproteins (DALI) apheresis is the first method for direct adsorption of lipoproteins; it drastically reduces low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol and lipoprotein (a) (Lp[a]), and may therefore improve PV and EA. The current study was performed to test the effect of DALI on hemorheology. Six hypercholesterolemic patients who had been on regular LDL apheresis for at least several months were treated on a weekly or biweekly basis, on average 5 times each by DALI. Before and after each session, PV was measured by a capillary tube plasma viscosimeter and EA by rotational aggregometry. Single DALI sessions (n = 31) acutely decreased PV from 1.18 ± 0.04 to 1.06 ± 0.3 mPa (−10%) while EA improved from 22.8 ± 4.4 to 13.3 ± 4.5 (arbitrary units) (−42%). LDL‐cholesterol, Lp(a), and very‐low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL)‐cholesterol were effectively reduced while the decrease of triglycerides and fibrinogen was only moderate. DALI apheresis exerted an acute positive effect on blood hemorheology which may have beneficial effects on microcirculation. This hypothesis is in accordance with the clinical observation that in some patients, improvement of angina and/or exercise tolerance can be observed after only a few DALI sessions where changes of coronary stenoses cannot be expected yet.
Heparin‐Induced Extracorporeal Low‐Density Lipoprotein Precipitation Futura, a New Modification of HELP Apheresis: Technique and First Clinical Results
Authors: Susca M.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Heparin extracorporeal low‐density lipoprotein precipitation (HELP) Futura is a new development in the standard HELP Secura system that has been in clinical practice for more than 15 years. Based on this experience, a HELP Upgrading system was first evaluated in a clinical trial to confirm the same clinical results as in the standard system. The upgraded procedure worked with industrially prepared sterile dialysis solutions instead of the reverse osmosis device. The conclusion of the study was that the reductions of low‐density lipoprotein, lipoprotein (a), and fibrinogen and the correction of the acid‐base balance were comparable with the results of the standard system. As a second step, the HELP Futura system was evaluated in a clinical acceptance test and in a field test in the daily routine. After approximately 2,000 treatments on 35 patients, we can conclude that the HELP Futura procedure has reached a mature phase with a high degree of clinical safety and flexibility.
A New Endotoxin Adsorber: First Clinical Application
Authors: Ullrich Heidrun , Jakob Wolfgang , Fröhlich Dieter , Rothe Gregor , Prasser Christopher , Drobnik Wolfgang , Taeger Kai , Meier‐Hellmann Andreas , Reinhart Konrad , Zimmermann Michael , Schmitz Gerd
Published: March 2003

Abstract: In an open, uncontrolled pilot study, 5 men and 1 woman with suspected gram‐negative sepsis were treated with a new whole‐blood endotoxin adsorption system. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) adsorption was carried out by hemoperfusion over high‐affinity polymethacrylate‐bound albumin (Fresenius Endotoxin Adsorber EN 500). All patients suffered from endotoxemia (>20 pg/ml LAL) and met at least two systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria. Four patients suffered from pneumonia due to mechanical ventilation, one from peritonitis, and one from pneumonia and peritonitis. Endotoxin adsorption was very well tolerated, and efficient LPS removal was shown in all patients. Apache II score immediately before immunoadsorption was 23.5 and was 22.3 after the last treatment. All 6 critically ill patients improved substantially and were discharged from the intensive care unit. LPS whole blood immunoadsorption is a promising new method. No side effects have been observed thus far. A large controlled study to prove clinical efficacy in patients with severe sepsis is under way.
Plasma Exchange in Stiff‐Man Syndrome
Authors: Shariatmadar S. , Noto Thomas A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Stiff‐man syndrome (STS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by involuntary axial and proximal limb rigidity and continuous motor unit activity on electromyography (EMG). Autoantibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) present in 60% of the patients are implicated. We report on the use of plasma exchange (PE) in 2 patients with STS whose serum and cerebrospinal fluid were negative for GAD autoantibodies. One patient showed minimal clinical improvement following PE while the second reported subjective improvement, but not any different from that with medications. Based on the results of PE in our patients, it seems that those who are autoantibody negative are less likely to respond. Whether a more aggressive approach to PE will be beneficial remains speculative.
How Prosorba Apheresis Came to Be Used for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Personal Historical Perspective
Authors: Wallace Daniel J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The Prosorba column is an effective treatment for refractory rheumatoid arthritis. In this article, I review how membrane methodologies evolved with regard to the management of the disorder through a focused review of rarely cited key references and personal experience.
Monitoring of Peripheral Blood CD34+ Cell Counts on the First Day of Apheresis Is Highly Predictive for Efficient CD34+ Cell Yield
Authors: Demirer Taner , Ilhan Osman , Ayli Meltem , Arat Mutlu , Daglı Mehmet , Ozcan Muhit , Haznedar Rauf , Genc Yasemin , Fen Turgay , Ayyildiz Erol , Dincer Suleyman , Arslan Onder , Gurman Gunhan , Konuk Nahide , Dalva Klara , Uysal Akın , Koc Haluk , Ozet Gulsum , Akan Hamdi
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation of preleukapheresis circulating CD34+ cells/μL, white blood cells (WBC), and platelet counts on the first day of apheresis with the yield of collected CD34+ cell counts in 40 patients with hematological malignancies (n = 29) and solid tumors (n = 11). The median numbers of apheresis cycles, numbers of CD34+ cells, peripheral blood (PB) mononuclear cells, and total nucleated cells collected were 2 (range, 1–4), 5.5 × 106/kg (range, 0.05–33.78), 2.59 × 108/kg (range, 0.04–20.68), and 7.36 × 108/kg (range, 0.15–28.08), respectively. There was a strong correlation between the number of preleukapheresis circulating CD34+ cells/μL and the yield of collected CD34+ cells per kilogram (r = 0.962, p < 0.001). The threshold levels of PB CD34+ cell/μL to obtain ≥1 × 106/kg and ≥2.5 × 106/kg CD34+ cell in one collection were 12/μL and 34/μL, respectively. Fifteen of 17 (88%) patients who had ≥34 CD34+ cells/μL in the PB before collection reached the level of ≥2.5 × 106/kg in a single apheresis. Despite a low r value, WBC and platelet counts on the first day of apheresis also correlated with the yield of collected daily CD34+ cells per kilogram (r = 0.482, p < 0.01 and r = 0.496 p < 0.01, respectively). These data suggest that preleukapheresis circulating CD34+ cells/μL correlated significantly better with the yield of collected CD34+ cells than WBC and platelet counts on the first day of apheresis. Using a value of 34/μL preleukapheresis circulating CD34+ cells as a guide for the timing of peripheral blood stem cells collections can be time saving and cost‐effective.
Adsorption of Endotoxin by Beta2‐Microglobulin Adsorbent Column (Lixelle): The New Approach for Endotoxinemia
Authors: Tsuchida Kenji , Takemoto Yoshiaki , Sugimura Kazunobu , Yoshimura Rikio , Yamamoto Keisuke , Nakatani Tatsuya
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We previously reported that Lixelle, which was used for beta2‐microglobulin (BMG) adsorption columns, could adsorb not only BMG but also inflammatory cytokines. We became interested in the application of Lixelle for patients with endotoxinemia and researched its ability to adsorb microorganism components in vitro using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (Escherichia coli B8), endotoxin (ET) contaiminated water. The initial concentrations of each water solution were LPS (ET 29,135 EU/L) and contaminated water (ET 3,523 EU/L) whole blood solution was LPS (ET 1,197.6 EU/L). Each 2.5 ml of the stock solution and adjusted diluted solutions contained 0.5 ml of Lixelle beads. After shaking at 37°C for 2 h, ET in the solutions was determined using the endotoxin specific‐limulus amebocyte lysate method. The results revealed that even though ET concentrations in LPS and contaminated water incubated in water solution and in whole blood were high, the samples containing Lixelle beads showed significant decreases. Thus, Lixelle beads can adsorb not only BMG but also microorganism components such as LPS and ET. These findings together with the ability of Lixelle to adsorb ET show the possibility of the application for treatment of endotoxinemia.
Case Reports on Emergency Treatment of Cardiovascular Syndromes Through Heparin‐Mediated Low‐Density Lipoprotein/Fibrinogen Precipitation: A New Approach to Augment Cerebral and Myocardial Salvage
Authors: Jaeger Beate Roxane , Kreuzer Eckart , Knez Andreas , Leber Andreas , Überfuhr Peter , Börner Monika , Milz Petra , Reichart Bruno , Seidel Dietrich
Published: March 2003

Abstract:We report the first experiences with HELP apheresis as an emergency treatment for acute cardiovascular syndromes; two patients who were not eligible for lysis therapy and catheter intervention were treated with HELP apheresis instead. Both patients had a most severe, generalized atherosclerosis and reached the hospital too late for conventional measures. In both cases, the use of the apheresis dramatically improved the clinical situation to such an extent that the possibilities of this apheresis system urge further investigation.
Cytapheresis for the Treatment of Myeloperoxidase Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody‐Associated Vasculitis: Report of Five Cases
Authors: Hasegawa Midori , Kawamura Nahoko , Kasugai Masami , Koide Sigehisa , Murase Masamitsu , Asano Sinsuke , Toba Takako , Kushimoto Hiroko , Murakami Kazutaka , Tomita Makoto , Shikano Masahiko , Sugiyama Satoshi
Published: March 2003

Abstract: To minimize the adverse effects of high‐dose administration of steroids and cyclophosphamide in patients with myeloperoxidase (MPO) antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA), granulocytapheresis (GCAP) or leukocytapheresis (LCAP) was performed to reduce inflammation. Four patients with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) and one patient with pulmonary hemorrhage due to MPO‐ANCA‐associated vasculitis were treated by cytapheresis. The prednisolone (PSL) dose was 0.28 ± 0.15 mg/kg/day (mean ± SD) (range 0.18–0.50 g/kg/day). In the 4 RPGN patients, the peak serum creatinine level was 3.7 ± 1.9 mg/dl (range 1.7 to 5.6 mg/dl). GCAP was performed in 3 RPGN patients and in 1 pulmonary hemorrhage patient. LCAP was performed in 1 RPGN patient. In the 4 RPGN patients, renal function improved after combined therapy with cytapheresis and corticosteroids. In the pulmonary hemorrhage patient, evidence of pulmonary hemorrhage on chest computed tomography scanning diminished after combined therapy with cytapheresis and corticosteroids. Cytapheresis, when combined with a low‐dose or intermediate‐dose PSL regimen, is effective in the treatment of ANCA‐associated vasculitis.
Restoration of Aboveground Ectomycorrhizal Flora in Stands of Pinus sylvestris (Scots Pine) in The Netherlands by Removal of Litter and Humus
Authors: Baar J. , Kuyper Th. W.
Published: March 2003

Species richness and sporocarp density of ectomycorrhizal fungi in stands of Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine) in The Netherlands have decreased during the last decades. The lowest species diversity was found in P. sylvestris stands situated in areas with high atmospheric deposition of nitrogen originating from intensive livestock industry. In these stands, litter and humus have accumulated into thick layers, and the herbaceous understory vegetation is dominated by the grass Deschampsia flexuosa (wavy hair grass). Earlier investigations showed negative correlations between the number of species of ectomycorrhizal fungi above ground and the depth of humus layers. Our aim was to investigate whether removal of litter, humus layers, and herbaceous vegetation (sods)—so‐called “sod cutting”—increased species diversity above ground and sporocarp density of ectomycorrhizal fungi in P. sylvestris stands of different age. Therefore, three P. sylvestris stands of different ages (planted in 1987, 1963, and 1924) on Haplic Arenosol were selected. In 1990, litter, humus layers, and herbaceous vegetation were removed to create nutrient‐poor sandy soils without overlying litter and humus layers. Untreated plots served as controls. Surveys conducted in 1991, 1992, and 1993 indicated that sod cutting enhanced the species diversity and sporocarp density of ectomycorrhizal fungi. These results suggest that sod cutting is a way to restore ectomycorrhizal flora in medium‐aged and old stands of P. sylvestris where litter and humus have accumulated.
Restructuring of Fish Assemblages in Swedish Lakes Following Amelioration of Acid Stress through Liming
Authors: Appelberg Magnus
Published: March 2003

A large‐scale liming program was initiated in Sweden in the mid‐1970s to ameliorate the effects of acidification and to restore acidified lakes and rivers to conditions present before acidification. I compared the fish fauna composition and biomass among limed, acidified, and consistently circumneutral lakes. The study focused on (1) recolonization and fish assemblage development and (2) fish biomass and assemblage composition. Time‐series data from 14 limed, 5 acid, and 10 circumneutral lakes, and a data set of 323 limed and 346 nonlimed circumneutral lakes, are analyzed. Long‐term monitoring revealed that fish species richness increased after liming and was of the same magnitude in limed lakes as in nonlimed circumneutral lakes after 10–20 years. Species proportions differed between limed and nonlimed lakes, and the relative biomass of Perca fluviatilis (Eurasian perch) was in general higher, whereas cyprinid and pelagic species were less important in the limed lakes than in the nonlimed circumneutral lakes. Recolonization of fish species was found to be a crucial factor for the development of the fish assemblages after liming, and in several limed lakes the reintroduction of fish species has accelerated the recovery of pre‐acidification fish assemblages.
Effects of Changes in Acidity on Aquatic Insects in Rocky Littoral Habitats of Lakes Near Sudbur y, Ontario
Authors: Carbone J. , Keller W. , Griffiths R. W.
Published: March 2003

Benthic aquatic insects were collected from rocky nearshore areas (< 1 m deep) of 17 lakes near Sudbury, Ontario, with a pH range of 4.7–7.3 and a size range of less than 10 ha to over 10,000 ha. These insect communities were composed of taxa common to lake soft‐sediments and streams. Direct and indirect effects of lake acidity appeared to be major controls on the structure of these communities, implying that several factors may be involved in restructuring during acidification or recovery. Declines in abundances of several taxa of Ephemeroptera at pH below 5.5 were attributable to acid toxicity, while increases in the abundances of Odonata and Diptera at pH below 5.5 were associated with the absence of fish predators and other indirect effects of acidity. The communities of two experimentally neutralized lakes restructured rapidly within 5 years, approaching but not achieving community structures typical of our near‐neutral survey lakes. Neutralization led to recolonization or increased abundance of the acid‐sensitive mayfly, Stenacron interpunctatum, and the dragonfly, Boyeria grafiana; however, recolonization by other taxa expected to be present in near‐neutral lakes (Stenonema femoratum, Eurylophella, and Basiaeshna janata) was not observed. Consistent with results for the survey lakes, declines in the abundances of the dragonflies Aeshna interrupta, Aeshna eremita, and Leucorrhinia glacialis in the neutralized lakes were associated with reintroductions of Salvelinus fontinalis (aurora trout) and increased fish predation pressure, while reduced abundances of the dipterans Ceratopogonidae, Psectrocladius, and Stackelbergina may be related to indirect effects of acidity other than fish predation. Although community composition varied greatly across the acidity gradient, total species richness and abundance were not correlated with lake chemistry or number of fish species.
Shrub Densities on Pre‐1985 Reclaimed Mine Lands in Wyoming
Authors: Booth D. Terrance , Gores James K. , Schuman Gerald E. , Olson Richard A.
Published: March 2003

The reestablishment of native shrubs is part of the mandate under which mining companies extract mineral resources in Wyoming and other western states. Post‐mining shrub density and species mixtures have been topics debated by various mine reclamation stake holders. By law, coal‐mined lands in Wyoming must now meet a post‐mining shrub density of 1 shrub/m2 on 20% of the affected area. To better understand the long‐term results of shrub reclamation methods, we measured shrub density by species in 14 pre‐1985 seedings at eight mines in three geographic regions of Wyoming. The sites studied were selected as Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. (fourwing saltbush) and grass or as Artemisia tridentata Nutt. ssp. wyomingensis (Beetle and Young) (Wyoming big sagebrush), fourwing saltbush, and grass post‐mining communities. Shrub density and composition varied by site but typically reflected the seed mixtures used. Seedings that used a diversity of shrub species generally had greater 1994 shrub densities. Seeding rates between 60 and 1000 shrub seeds/m2 had a positive, linear relationship with shrub density up to 0.6 shrubs/m2 when sagebrush was part of the shrub seed mixture. We conclude that the likelihood of meeting the shrub standard can be enhanced by seeding diverse shrub mixtures at high seeding rates.
Effects of Soil Nitrogen Reduction on Nonnative Plants in Restored Grasslands
Authors: Morghan K. J. Reever , Seastedt T. R.
Published: March 2003

We studied the cumulative effects of 3 years of carbon amendments on previously disturbed mixed‐grass prairie sites near Boulder, Colorado. Analysis of soil inorganic nitrogen during the third field season indicated statistically significant but short‐term nitrogen reduction in response to addition of a combination of sugar and sawdust treatments. Plant foliage production was significantly reduced by these carbon amendments and averaged 377 g/m2/year on control plots versus 219 g/m2/year on treated plots. Undesirable species such as Centaurea diffusa (diffuse knapweed) exhibited a similar biomass response. But after three years of treatment there is little evidence to suggest a relative increase in desirable, reseeded species such as Agropyron smithii (western wheatgrass). We suggest that the carbon amendment treatment alone is an inadequate remediation technique in areas exposed to extensive seed rain by exotic species.
Protocols for Restoration Based on Recruitment Dynamics, Community Structure, and Ecosystem Function: Perspectives from South African Fynbos
Authors: Holmes Patricia M. , Richardson David M.
Published: March 2003

South African fynbos ecosystems are under threat from alien plant invasions and transformations to alternative land uses. If large‐scale habitat loss and species extinction are to be halted, restoration actions are urgently required. We postulate that by adopting an approach in which an understanding of community and ecosystem dynamics is applied to restoration practices, protocols can be developed which will lead to more efficient restoration. This understanding is based on a review of the relevant ecological literature, focusing on recruitment dynamics, community structure, and ecosystem function, which are particularly relevant to restoration. We develop a conceptual framework for restoration and apply our protocols to a case study area on the Cape Peninsula. Before ecological restoration can begin, the cause of transformation must first be removed or ameliorated. The next step is to ensure that the important ecological processes are functioning. We contend that a fully functioning community requires a good balance of the major growth‐form, regeneration, and nutrient acquisition guilds. Fire is the natural disturbance event initiating recruitment in fynbos. It is, therefore, essential to either burn a site or provide fire‐related germination cues in order to stimulate recruitment. Where guilds are under‐represented, corrective reintroductions will further improve the long‐term resilience of the restored community. Many taxa have persistent soil‐stored seed banks, so it is important to conserve topsoil and optimize use of this local species pool. Seed dispersal distances are generally very short, and in highly transformed sites it will be necessary to reintroduce seed of the major guilds in order to restore community structure and functioning. Post‐fire succession in fynbos begins with the full complement of species; species gradually die out from the vegetation according to their respective life spans. In order to stimulate germination and promote successful establishment, it is important to sow seed after fire or site clearing in late summer or autumn. Introducing seed or plants at a later stage in the succession is very likely to fail. Because of the localized distributions of many taxa, extreme care must be taken when selecting species for reintroduction if local gene pools are to be conserved.
The Importance of Transplant Size and Gap Width in the Botanical Enrichment of Species‐Poor Grasslands in Britain
Authors: Davies Angus , Dunnett Nigel P. , Kendle Tony
Published: March 2003

A series of five grasslands of differing agricultural productivity and species diversity was chosen for this study. Four of these areas were divided into three sub‐plots, each under a different management regime (either mown, sheep, or cattle grazed). Each sub‐plot was inoculated with 180 transplants comprised of 12 individuals of 15 perennial species. These species were chosen to provide a spectrum of ‘phytometers’ to evaluate the receptivity of the grasslands to species introduction. Half of the plants were 9‐cm pot‐grown transplants, the other half, 2‐cm plug plants. One‐third of each of the transplant sizes was inserted into either 0‐cm, 15‐cm, or 30‐cm‐diameter gaps. Evaluation of species enrichment success was made by monitoring the survivorship of the transplants over a three‐year study period. The fifth grassland was already species‐rich and, therefore, left untreated and used as a reference community. The species could be classified into three main groups on the basis of their survivorship: (a) species with higher survivorship for pot than plug transplants; (b) species that established significantly better as plug than as pot transplants; and (c) species that suffered equally high mortalities as either pot or plug transplants. For three out of the four grasslands, the size of competition‐free gaps was not significant in enhancing survivorship for either pot or plug transplants. Gap creation only aided survivorship for the set of plug plants inserted into the most productive grassland. Transplant survival was strongly negatively correlated with soil P and K concentrations, and peak biomass. In this, the establishment phase, the three management treatment regimes did not have a significant differential effect on transplant survival. The results are discussed in relation to practical techniques for restoring species‐poor grasslands using transplants.
Effects of Burning and Grazing on a Coastal California Grassland
Authors: Hatch Daphne A. , Bartolome James W. , Fehmi Jeffrey S. , Hillyard Deborah S.
Published: March 2003

We tested the effects of fall burning and protection from livestock grazing as management to enhance native grasses on a coastal grassland in central California. Plants from the Mediterranean, introduced beginning in the late 1700s, have invaded and now dominate most of California's grasslands. Coastal grasslands are generally less degraded than those inland and have higher potential for restoration and conservation. Productivity of the experimental plots varied annually and declined over the course of the study because of rainfall patterns. Foliar cover of the native Danthonia californica (California oatgrass) increased more under grazing than grazing exclusion and did not respond to burning. Two other natives, Nassella pulchra (purple needlegrass) and Nassella lepida (foothill needlegrass), responded variably to treatments. The response of N. pulchra differed from that reported on more inland sites in California. Restoring these grasslands is complicated by differing responses of target species to protection from grazing and burning. The current practice of managing to enhance single species of native plants (e.g., N. pulchra) may be detrimental to other equally important native species.
Restoration of Northwest Florida Sandhills Through Harvest of Invasive Pinus clausa
Authors: Provencher Louis , Herring Brenda J. , Gordon Doria R. , Rodgers H. LeRoy , Tanner George W. , Brennan Leonard A. , Hardesty Jeffrey L.
Published: March 2003

Across much of the southeastern U.S.A., sandhills have become dominated by hardwoods or invasive pine species following logging of Pinus palustris (longleaf pine) and fire suppression. At Eglin Air Force Base where this study was conducted, Pinus clausa (sand pine) has densely colonized most southeastern sandhill sites, suppressing groundcover vegetation. The objectives of this study were: to determine if suppressed groundcover vegetation recovers following the removal of P. clausa; to compare species composition and abundance in removal plots with that in reference, high quality sandhills; to test the assumption that recolonization by P. clausa seedlings decreases with proximity to the centers of removal plots; and to measure the survival of containerized P. palustris seedlings that were planted on P. clausa removal plots. One year post‐removal (1995), the number of plant species decreased by 50%, but then increased by 100% from 1995 to 1997, followed by a small reduction in 1998. The number of plant species was greater in reference plots than in removal plots prior to 1997. Eighty‐five percent of the original species were recorded 4 years post‐harvest in removal plots. Shrubs and large trees remained at low density after harvest. Densities of graminoids, legumes, other forbs, woody vines, and small trees increased after harvest. Plant densities of all life forms, except woody vines, were greater in reference plots than in removal plots. The density of recolonizing P. clausa seedlings 2–4 years post‐harvest significantly decreased with increasing proximity to the centers of removal plots. On average, 80% of planted P. palustris seedlings survived their first 2 years. Harvest of P. clausa followed by fire and the planting of P. palustris is a reasonably effective restoration approach in invaded sandhills. However, supplementary plantings of some herbaceous species may be necessary for full restoration.
Cattle and Weedy Shrubs as Restoration Tools of Tropical Montane Rainforest
Authors: Posada Juan M. , Aide T. Mitchell , Cavelier Jaime
Published: March 2003

Over the last 150 years, a large proportion of forests in Latin America have been converted to pastures. When these pastures are abandoned, grasses may slow re‐establishment of woody species and limit forest regeneration. In this study, we explored the use of cattle in facilitating the establishment of woody vegetation in Colombian montane pastures, dominated by the African grasses Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyo) and Melinis minutiflora (Yaraguá). First, we described woody and herbaceous vegetation in grazed and non‐grazed pastures. Second, we tested the effect of grazing and seed addition on the establishment and growth of woody species. We also determined if the effect of grazing was different in P. clandestinum and M. minutiflora pastures. We found that low stocking density of cattle greatly increased density, number of branches per individual (a measure of “shrubiness”), and basal area of woody species, but also reduced woody plant species richness and diversity. In the grazed area, the shrubs Baccharis latifolia (Chilca) and Salvia sp. (Salvia) were the most abundant. The combined effect of grazing and shading from the shrubs reduced herbaceous vegetation by 52 to 92%. In the grazing/seed addition experiment, grazing increased establishment of woody seedlings, particularly of the shrub Verbesina arborea (camargo), but the largest effect was seed addition. Where grasses are an important barrier to regeneration, grazing can facilitate the establishment of shrubs that create a microhabitat more suitable for the establishment of montane forest tree species.
Structural and Floristic Heterogeneity in a 30‐Year‐Old Costa Rican Rain Forest Restored on Pasture Through Natural Secondary Succession
Authors: Finegan Bryan , Delgado Diego
Published: March 2003

Relatively little information exists on neotropical secondary rain forests that have progressed beyond the pioneer stages of succession, or on the potential of natural regeneration to restore forest on large areas. We determined the structural and floristic characteristics (10 cm dbh) of a 30‐year‐old secondary forest developing on a 32.5 ha pasture on hilly terrain, abandoned after use of moderate intensity. Ten 0.24 ha sample plots covered the range of site conditions. The forest was dominated by long‐lived pioneer tree species; overall, the majority of species (70%) was vertebrate dispersed but the majority of individuals (52%) was of wind‐dispersed species. Tree species, including the dominants, were a mixture of those present in old‐growth and adventives colonizing from agricultural land. The forest was very heterogeneous. Vochysia ferruginea‐dominated stands characterized slopes with soils of high exchangeable acidity, while the adventive Cordia alliodora dominated sites with gentler topography and soils of lower acidity. Structural differences between the two forest types were slight, but Cordia forest had significantly greater species diversity and absolute and relative abundances of vertebrate‐dispersed tree species than Vochysia forest, which had significantly greater absolute and relative abundances of wind‐dispersed tree species. These latter differences between forest types, as well as the wide structural variation of the forest as a whole, were probably largely due to spatial and temporal variation in seed rains, some of it linked to the characteristics of the dominant species. Rain forest restoration on large pastures may depend greatly on wind dispersal and adventive tree species, and techniques for silvicultural diagnosis must be developed as a basis for the management of heterogeneous successional stands. Studies of early colonization of pastures should be expanded to focus on the causes of heterogeneity in older forests.
A Test of a Habitat Evaluation Procedure for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep
Authors: Johnson Therese L. , Swift David M.
Published: March 2003

Habitat analysis is an important component of animal population restoration. We tested a habitat evaluation procedure for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis) using a geographic information system (GIS). We applied the model to eight bighorn sheep translocation sites in Colorado and compared the model's habitat suitability assessments with translocation results. The model considered the habitat unsuitable for four failed translocations, and did not recognize suitable habitat for four successful translocations. We performed a sensitivity analysis to determine how individual parameters affected model suitability assessments. To improve the model's ability to distinguish between suitable and unsuitable habitat, we relaxed the suitability criteria for four parameters: barriers created by dense vegetation, barriers created by fences, buffer zones on human use areas, and horizontal visibility. The refined model can be useful to bighorn sheep restoration efforts by facilitating evaluation of large areas of potential habitat, but numerical thresholds for required amounts of suitable habitat must consider the scale of data used for analysis.
Restoration Ecology of an Endangered Plant Species: Establishment of New Populations of Cirsium pitcheri
Authors: Rowland Jennifer , Maun M. A.
Published: March 2003

We determined the effects of shade, burial by sand, simulated herbivory, and fertilizers on the survival and growth of artificially planted population of Cirsium pitcheri—an endangered plant species of the sand dunes along Lake Huron. Sand burial experiments showed that greenhouse grown plants should optimally be transplanted into areas receiving 5 cm of sand deposition: burial at this depth maximized emergence, survivorship, and below‐ground biomass. Under field conditions, simulated herbivory of up to 50% of the plant height produced a slight increase in biomass after one year of growth. Field observations showed that when white‐tailed deer removed more than 50% of the transplant's leaf tissue, the plant died. The application of a 20:20:20 (N:P:K) water‐soluble fertilizer produced a significant increase in the dry leaf biomass, total leaf area, and total dry biomass relative to control plants. We also tested for the presence or absence of a persistent seed bank. Few seeds were recovered from soil samples collected from Pinery Provincial Park and Providence Bay. However, C. pitcheri has the ability to form a persistent seed bank under field conditions but only at soil depths of 15 cm. Cirsium pitcheri seeds are able to germinate and seedlings can emerge from a burial depth of up to 6 cm. Thus, seeds planted in open, sunny areas will probably maximize emergence, growth, and survivorship of seedlings. Populations of C. pitcheri can be restored by planting seeds at shallow depths, transplanting greenhouse‐grown plants, applying water soluble fertilizers, and protecting plants from herbivores.
Ecological and Landscape Rehabilitation of a Quarry Site in Hong Kong
Authors: Jim C. Y.
Published: March 2003

Quarrying for granite in Hong Kong, mainly for construction aggregates, has left huge and unsightly scars on the landscape. Recent government policy demands rehabilitation of the disturbed lands and restoration of the landscape adopting the ecological approach. At an active quarry, a method was tested for controlled restoration: blasting of the vertical rocky production faces to pile up the debris and to form artificial slopes that mimic those of the environs in a landform replication approach. On the scree blast piles, a soil cap of fine‐earth materials with organic amendments was installed to grow mainly tropical leguminous trees. The restoration trial largely failed, with extensive death or poor performance of most plants. The inability of the soil and the site to support vegetation was investigated. The main physical problems are shallow solum, large cavities in the bouldery substrate, high stone content, excessively coarse texture, compaction, and limited available‐moisture storage. The main chemical problems are the lack of nitrogen and phosphorus related to the meager organic‐matter content, low cation exchange capacity, and base saturation. Suggestions are made to ameliorate habitat conditions for plant growth in a comprehensive ecosystem‐reconstitution package that encompasses the landform, hydrology, microclimate, soil, and plant assemblage. Recommendations are given on the application of organic amendments to establish and maintain soil structure, restore decomposition regime, and raise nutrient and moisture storage capacities for a modified approach that could overcome the site difficulties.
Colonization of Colliery Spoil Heaps by Millipedes (Diplopoda) and Terrestrial Isopods (Oniscidea) in the Sokolov Region, Czech Republic
Authors: Tajovský Karel
Published: March 2003

Successive development of millipede and terrestrial isopod assemblages in colliery spoil heaps in the Sokolov region (northwest Bohemia, Czech Republic) was studied during the years 1993–1998. Younger colliery spoil heaps were characterized by a lower number and low density of millipede species. The millipedes Polydesmus inconstans, Polydesmus testaceus, and Craspedosoma rawlinsii represented the main pioneer species. Alder afforestation proved to be more suitable for the recolonization of millipede populations, especially for the predominant Julus scandinavius. Terrestrial isopods colonized all parts of the heaps, including the youngest open plots. The most frequent isopod, Trachelipus rathkii, is a colonizing species with an apparently high adaptability to different environmental conditions. The isolated character of the extensive heap areas, together with existing extreme soil conditions, resulted in slow recolonization and a successional development of stable populations of these animals. However, the relatively high densities of millipede and isopod assemblages in suitable alder afforestation can represent further potential sources for colonization of other open‐heap areas.
Floristic Development Patterns in a Restored Elk River Estuarine Marsh, Grays Harbor, Washington
Authors: Thom Ronald M. , Zeigler Robert , Borde Amy B.
Published: March 2003

We describe the changes in the floral assemblage in a salt marsh after reconnection to estuarine tidal inundation. The Elk River marsh in Grays Harbor, Washington was opened to tidal flushing in 1987 after being diked for approximately 70 years. The freshwater pasture assemblage dominated by Phalarais arundinacea (reed canary grass) converted to low salt marsh vegetation within 5 years, with the major flux in species occurring between years 1 and 4. The system continued to develop through the 11‐year post‐breach monitoring period, although change after year 6 was slower than in previous years. The assemblage resembles a low salt marsh community dominated by Distichlis spicata (salt grass) and Salicornia virginica (pickleweed). Because of subsidence of the system during the period of breaching, the restored system remains substantially different from the Deschamsia cespitosa (tufted hairgrass)‐dominated reference marsh. Use of a similarity index to compare between years and also between reference and restored marshes in the same year revealed that similarity in floral composition between year 0 and subsequent years decreased with time. However, there was a period of dramatic dissimilarity during years 1 to 3 when the system was rapidly changing from a freshwater to estuarine condition. Similarity values between the reference and restored system generally increased with time. Somewhat surprisingly the reference marsh showed considerable between‐year variation in similarity, which indicated substantial year‐to‐year variability in species composition. Based on accretion rate data from previous studies we predict that full recovery of the system would take between 75 and 150 years.