bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drought is more stressful for northern populations of Scots pine than low summer temperatures
Authors: Kozlov Mikhail , Niemelä Pekka
Published: September 2014

Needle fluctuating asymmetry, which is a non-specific stress indicator, was used to evaluate responses of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) to annual climatic variation in the Kola Peninsula, NW Russia, during 1992â1999. Although the 30 trees surveyed for this study demonstrated individualistic responses to the temperature and precipitation of the growth seasons, at the population level we found no effect of temperature and a significant increase in fluctuating asymmetry with a decline in precipitation during the previous August. This finding suggests that the vitality of Scots pine populations at the northern tree limit is controlled by late summer precipitation rather than by temperatures of the growth season.
Specific primers for the differentiation of Heterobasidion annosum (s.str.) and H. parviporum infected stumps in northern Europe
Authors: Hantula Jarkko , Vainio Eeva
Published: September 2014

Two separate amplification products from random amplified microsatellite fingerprints of Heterobasidion annosum (s.str.) and H. parviporum were converted to specific markers. The markers were tested to be species specific and combined to a single PCR-reaction, which allowed the detection and identification of the two fungi directly from wood samples.
Effects of wood, peat and coal ash fertilization on Scots pine foliar nutrient concentrations and growth on afforested former agricultural peat soils
Authors: Hytönen Jyrki
Published: September 2014

The effects of ash and commercial fertilizers on the foliar nutrient concentrations and stand growth of Scots pine were studied in four field experiments established on former cultivated peat soils. The aims were to compare ash types (wood, peat and coal ash), study the effects of ash treatment (pelletization), compare ash fertilization with commercial fertilizers, and to study the interaction between ash fertilization and weed control. Foliar samples were collected 1â3 years and 7â8 years after fertilization. In the unfertilized plots, the foliar nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations were fairly high, while those of potassium were low in all the experiments. The boron levels were low in three out of the four experiments. Application of either loose or pelletized wood ash, as well as of commercial fertilizers, increased foliar potassium and boron concentrations, and thus successfully remedied the existing nutrient imbalances and deficiencies. Since phosphorus deficiencies are rarely encountered on field afforestation sites, poor-quality wood ash with low phosphorus concentration could be used. Peat ash containing phosphorus, but only small amounts of potassium and boron, was not found to be very suitable for soil amelioration in connection with field afforestation. Coal ash, containing only small amounts of potassium, was a good source of boron for pine even when used in small amounts, and thus it can be used in cases where boron deficiencies alone are encountered. Wood ash significantly increased the height growth of Scots pines in two of the experiments, but peat ash and coal ash had no statistically significant effect. Wood ash increased the number of healthy seedlings. Vegetation control decreased seedling mortality by 24%, increased the growth of pine and decreased the proportion of trees damaged by elk and by deciduous trees.
Micropropagated silver birches (Betula pendula) in the field – performance and clonal differences
Authors: Viherä-Aarnio Anneli , Velling Pirkko
Published: September 2014

Micropropagated and seed-born silver birches (Betula pendula Roth) were compared for survival, height growth and occurrence of biotic damage (voles, hares, mooses, stem lesions and cankers) in field trials in southern Finland. The material consisted of 11 clones and 10 different lots of seedlings growing in 10 field trials, established in clear-cut forest cultivation areas. The plants were 6â7 years old. The micropropagated and seed-born material types did not significantly differ from each other as regards survival, height growth and frequencies of damage caused by biotic agents. Large and significant differences were, however, detected in survival, height and frequencies of all types of biotic damage between single clones. Careful selection and testing of birch clones in field conditions is recommended before wide-scale commercial micropropagation and practical forest cultivation takes place.
Competitive strategies applied by Finnish timber carriers following deregulation
Authors: Mäkinen Pekka
Published: September 2014

The present study examines the success of timber carriers and the factors involved in their success immediately following deregulation. In Finland in 1991 the timber trucking sector was deregulated. Means testing was changed to suitability testing, which meant that the Ministry of Transport and Communications, provincial authorities and the trucking association could no longer regulate the entry of new entrepreneurs to the sector. The present research material contains two successful enterprise groups. In the strategically more successful group, good results were obtained with a moderate labour input by the entrepreneurs. The strategic position of this group was considered to be successful because the operating hours of the trucks were fairly high but the work loads imposed on the entrepreneur remained reasonable. The profitability of these enterprises was so good that it was possible to use hired labour to drive the trucks. The work load of close to half of the unsuccessful entrepreneurs had been large or extremely large. In some cases, the obvious reason for failure was their inadequate transportation rates. Others had seemingly satisfactory haulage rates when compared to the average, but still their enterprises performed poorly. In these cases, the explanation lay in the inefficiency of operations or excessive debts, the latter caused, for example, by earlier operations. The results of this study do not support the view that a lot of hard work generally means success in entrepreneurship. The results support the view that both entrepreneursâ work and management inputs have a significant impact on the success of the enterprise, and that high tariffs alone are not a guarantee of success.
Reproductive phenology in a Norway spruce seed orchard
Authors: Nikkanen Teijo
Published: September 2014

Reproductive phenology was studied in a Norway spruce seed orchard, located in southern Finland (62Â°13âN, 25Â°24âE), consisting of 67 clones from northern Finland (64Â°â67Â°N). Timing of flowering was determined on the basis of data recorded by a pollen catch meter during 1984â1995, and visual observations made on grafts in 1989, 1992, 1993 and 1995. The genetic and environmental factors affecting female and male phenology, and reproductive synchronisation were studied. The between-year variation in the timing of flowering was more than three weeks. However, when it was defined on the basis of the effective temperature sum, the variation was smaller. No phenological reproductive isolation was found between the seed orchard and surrounding natural forests. The duration of the receptive period of the seed orchard varied from 5 to 8 days, and anthesis determined on the basis of airborne pollen from 5 to 10 days. The receptive period started about one day earlier than anthesis, except in one abnormally warm flowering period when female and male flowering started simultaneously. In general, the flowering periods of the different clones overlapped. The clonal differences in the phenology of receptivity were in most cases statistically significant, but in pollen shedding they were not. The broad-sense heritability estimates were higher for female than for male phenology. Environmental factors, conversely, had a stronger effect on male phenology. A wide graft spacing and a graft position that favoured solar radiation on the lower parts of the crown promoted early pollen shedding and, subsequently, better reproductive synchronisation between female and male flowering.
Tree stand development and carbon sequestration in drained peatland stands in Finland – a simulation study
Authors: Minkkinen Kari , Laine Jukka , Hökkä Hannu
Published: September 2014

Drained peatland forests form an important timber resource in Finland. They also form a sink for atmospheric carbon (C) because of the increased growth and C sequestration rates following drainage. These rates have, however, been poorly quantified. We simulated the tree stand dynamics for drained peatland stands with and without cuttings over two stand rotations. Simulations were done on four peatland site types and two regions in Finland with different climatic conditions, using recently published peatland tree growth models applied in a stand simulator. We then calculated the amount of C stored in the stands on the basis of previously published tree-level biomass and C content models. Finally, we developed regression models to estimate C stores in the tree stands using stand stem volume as the predictor variable. In the managed stands, the mean growth (annual volume increment) ranged from 2 to 9 m3 haâ1 aâ1, depending on the rotation (first/second), site type and region. Total yield during one rotation varied from 250 to 920 m3 haâ1. The maximum stand volumes varied from 220 to 520 m3 haâ1 in the managed stands and from 360 to 770 m3 haâ1 in the unmanaged. By the end of the first post-drainage rotation the total C store in the managed stands had increased by 6â12 kg C mâ2 (i.e. 45â140 g C mâ2 aâ1) compared to that in the undrained situation. Averaged over two rotations, the increase in the total C store was 3â6 kg C mâ2. In the corresponding unmanaged stands the C stores increased by 8â15 kg mâ2 over the same periods. At stand level, the C stores were almost linearly related to the stem volume and the developed regression equations could explain the variation in the simulated C stores almost entirely.
Two felling methods in final cutting of shelterwood, single-grip harvester productivity and damage to the regeneration
Authors: Glöde Dan , Sikström Ulf
Published: September 2014

In order to find an efficient and careful way of final-cutting shelterwoods, two felling methods, in a single-grip harvester system, were compared with respect to productivity and damage caused to the regeneration. The shelterwood (140â165 m3/ha) consisted of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and the natural regeneration (9530â11Â 780 seedlings/ha) mostly of Norway spruce. Treatments were: (i) conventional felling on both sides of the harvester striproad, preferably in blanks of the regeneration; (ii) felling of the trees top-end first into the striproad using a method named âtossing the caberâ. Both treatments included forwarding after felling. Conventional felling had a non-significantly higher productivity (27.4 m3/E15âh) and lower cost (25.9 SEK/m3) than tossing the caber (26.1 m3/E15âh and 27.2 SEK/m3). However, tossing the caber was significantly more efficient in the felling and processing of pine trees compared with conventional felling. The mean proportions of the disappeared and damaged seedlings were approximately 40% after both treatments. The logging-related damage to the regeneration decreased with increased distance to the striproad in the tossing the caber treatment but not in conventional felling. The conclusions were that there were no differences between the treatments regarding productivity, cost and total damage to the regeneration in mixed conifer shelterwoods but that tossing the caber could be a more productive method than conventional felling in pine dominated stands. Tossing the caber could also be beneficial at a regeneration height of 2â3 m since at this height the damage to the regeneration seems less than at conventional felling.
Effect of accumulated duration of the light period on bud burst in Norway spruce (Picea abies) of varying ages
Authors: Partanen Jouni , Leinonen Ilkka , Repo Tapani
Published: September 2014

One-year-old seedlings (two sowing times), two-year-old seedlings and 14- and 18-year-old cuttings of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) were exposed to shortening photoperiod (initially 16 h), lengthening photoperiod (initially 6 h) and constant short photoperiod (6 h) treatments with uniform temperature conditions in growth chambers. The timing of bud burst was examined. In all plants, shortening photoperiod treatment seemed to promote bud burst compared with other treatments. This effect was clearest in the oldest material. The results suggest that, in addition to temperature sum, the accumulated duration of the light period may promote bud burst of Norway spruce.
Climatic adaptation of seed maturity in Scots pine and Norway spruce populations
Authors: Fedorkov Aleksei
Published: September 2014

Seed maturation of Scots pine and Norway spruce in a provenance experiment at Kortkeros (northern Russia) was examined by the X-ray method. Logarithmic relationships were found between seed anatomy development and long-term average thermal sum. Seed development in the northern populations of Scots pine and Norway spruce was a little faster than in the southern ones.
Climatic signals extracted from ring-width chronologies of Scots pines from the northern, middle and southern parts of the boreal forest belt in Finland
Authors: Lindholm Markus , Lehtonen Hannu , Kolström Taneli , Meriläinen Jouko , Eronen Matti , Timonen Mauri
Published: September 2014

Climatic signals were extracted from ring-width chronologies of Scots pines (Pinus sylvestris L.) from natural stands of the northern, middle, and southern parts of the boreal forest belt in Finland. The strength of the common growth signals (forcing factors) were quantified as a function of time. This was achieved by mean inter-series correlations, calculated over a moving 30-year window, both within and between the regional chronologies. Strong regional signals and also evidence for common forcings were found, especially between northern and central, central and eastern, as well as central/eastern and southern chronologies. Response function analyses revealed that growing season temperatures govern the growth rates of northern pines, while towards south, pine growth becomes less affected by temperatures, and more affected by e.g. precipitation. During some periods, growing conditions seem to have been favorable in the south, while they have been unfavorable in the north (growth inversions). Going from the north to the south, the variability of radial growth clearly decreases, and the variance of ring-width series becomes smaller. Growth variability in the four regions was compared during the common interval of the chronologies, from 1806 to 1991. The spectral densities of the northern, central, eastern and southern chronologies were also compared as functions of frequency, viz. cycles per year. The variance is much greater and there is more periodic behavior in the north than in the south in high, medium, as well as lower frequencies.
Performance of percentile based diameter distribution prediction and Weibull method in independent data sets
Authors: Kangas Annika , Maltamo Matti
Published: September 2014

Diameter distribution is used in most forest management planning packages for predicting stand volume, timber volume and stand growth. The prediction of diameter distribution can be based on parametric distribution functions, distribution-free parametric prediction methods or purely non-parametric methods. In the first case, the distribution is obtained by predicting the parameters of some probability density function. In a distribution-free percentile method, the diameters at certain percentiles of the distribution are predicted with models. In non-parametric methods, the predicted distribution is a linear combination of similar measured stands. In this study, the percentile based diameter distribution is compared to the results obtained with the Weibull method in four independent data sets. In the case of Scots pine, the other methods are also compared to k-nearest neighbour method. The comparison was made with respect to the accuracy of predicted stand volume, saw timber volume and number of stems. The predicted percentile and Weibull distributions were calibrated using number of stems measured from the stand. The information of minimum and maximum diameters were also used, for re-scaling the percentile based distribution or for parameter recovery of Weibull parameters. The accuracy of the predicted stand characteristics were also compared for calibrated distributions. The most reliable results were obtained using the percentile method with the model set including number of stems as a predictor. Calibration improved the results in most cases. However, using the minimum and maximum diameters for parameter recovery proved to be inefficient.
Integrating timber price scenario modeling with tactical management planning of private forestry at forest holding level
Authors: Kangas Jyrki , Leskinen Pekka , Pukkala Timo
Published: September 2014

In forest management planning, deterministic timber prices are typically assumed. However, real-life timber prices vary in the course of time, and also price peaks, i.e. exceptionally high timber prices, might occur. If land-owners can utilise the price variation by selling timber with the high prices, they are able to increase their net revenues correspondingly. In this study, an approach is presented to study the timber price variation and its significance in the optimization of forest management. The approach utilizes stochastic timber price scenario modelling, simulation of forest development, and optimization of forest management. The approach is presented and illustrated by means of a case study. It is shown how the degree of uncertainty due to variation in timber prices can be analyzed in tactical forest planning of private forestry, and how the potential benefits of adaptive timber-selling behaviour for a forest landowner can be computed by using the approach. The effects of stochastic timber prices on the choice of forest plan are studied at the forest holding level considering also the spacing and type of cuttings and the optimal cutting order. A forest plan prepared under the assumption of constant timber price very seldom results in optimal forest management. Through studying the effects of stochastic timber prices, forest landowners and other decision makers obtain valuable information about the significance of adaptive timber selling behaviour. The presented methodology can also be used in analysing the land-ownersâ economic risks as a function of time-price structure.
Intra-tree models of basic density in Norway spruce as an input to simulation software
Authors: Lindström Håkan
Published: September 2014

Basic density is said to influence aspects of conversion, properties, and end-use of forest products. Consequently, it is argued that accurate models of basic density variation, within and between trees, could be used to improve the utilisation of wood as an industrial raw material. The objective of the present study was to develop basic density models based on Norway spruce trees, that could be used within a model system for conversion simulation studies. Nineteen stands of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) were selected throughout Sweden. Based on dbh, two small, two moderate, and two large timber trees were taken from each stand. Dbh varied between 180â470 mm, tree height between 17â34 m, and total age between 51â152 years. Each selected tree was cross-cut into logs; discs were prepared from the butt end of each log and from the top end of the top log. Computed tomography scanning and image analysis were used to determine basic density and growth ring development on sampled discs. Basic density development in 20-mm segments from pith outwards was modelled in models based on ring width, tree and growth condition data. The resulting models had an adjusted R2 of 0.37â0.51 and a RMSE of 37â41 kg/m3.
The role of peatlands in Finnish wood production – an analysis based on large-scale forest scenario modelling
Authors: Nuutinen Tuula , Hirvelä Hannu , Hynynen Jari , Härkönen Kari , Hökkä Hannu , Korhonen Kari , Salminen Olli
Published: September 2014

Using the Finnish MELA model, a set of scenarios were produced and used to map the possibilities and risks surrounding the utilisation of peatlands in wood production in Finland. One of the scenarios was an estimate of allowable-cut calculated by maximising the net present value of the future revenues using a four per cent interest rate subject to non-decreasing flow of wood, saw logs and net income over a 50-year period, and net present value after the 50 year period greater or equal than in the beginning. The estimate for maximum regionally sustained removal in 1996â2005 was 68 million m3 per year â approaching 74 million m3 during the next decades. In this scenario, 14 per cent of all cuttings during the period 1996â2005 would be made on peatlands, which comprise ca. 31 per cent of the total area of forestry land. By the year 2025, the proportion of peatland cuttings would increase to over 20 per cent. The increase in future cutting possibilities on peatlands compensated for a temporary decrease in cuttings and growing stock on mineral soils. The allowable-cut effect was especially pronounced in northern Finland, where peatlands play an important role in wood production. In addition, the sensitivity of cutting possibilities for assumptions related to growth and price were analysed. The estimate of maximum sustainable yield as defined here seems to be fairly robust on the whole, except in northern Finland where the cutting scenarios were sensitive to the changes in the price of birch pulpwood. The proportion of peatland stands that are profitable for timber production depends on the interest rate: the higher the rate of interest the less peatland stands are thinned. The effect of cutting profile on future logging conditions and resulting costs were analysed in two forestry centres. If clear cuttings on mineral soils are to be cut first, an increase in future logging costs is inevitable.
Validation of the European Forest Information Scenario Model (EFISCEN) and a projection of Finnish forests
Authors: Nabuurs Gert-Jan , Schelhaas Mart-Jan , Pussinen Ari
Published: September 2014

Large-scale forest scenario models are intensively used to make projections of forest areas of up to hundreds of millions of hectares. Within Europe, such projections have been done for 11 countries at the individual national scale, most often to foresee the long-term implications of the ongoing forest management. However, the validity of the models has rarely been tested. The aim of this study was 1. to validate the European Forest Information SCENario model (EFISCEN) by running it on historic Finnish forest inventory data, 2. to improve the model based on the validation, and 3. to project the Finnish forest development till 2050 with the improved model under alternative scenarios. The results of the validation showed that EFISCEN is capable of making reliable large-scale projections of forest resources for periods up to 50â60 years. Based on the validation, the model was improved concerning simulation of age development, thinning regimes and regrowth after thinning. The projection of the Finnish forests till 2050 with the improved model presented a maximum sustainable felling level of around 70 million m3 per year. That provides an average growing stock of 106 m3 haâ1 in 2050 and a net annual increment of 3.6 m3 haâ1 yâ1. If the current trend towards more nature oriented forest management continues and 1.39 million ha of forests have been set aside additionally for nature reserves by 2050, the felling level could meet a realistic demand of 57 million m3 per year in 2050. Under the latter regime the average growing stock will have grown to 160 m3 haâ1 in 2050.
Changes in total protein and protease activity in dehydrating recalcitrant sal (Shorea robusta) seeds
Authors: Chaitanya K. , Keshavkant S. , Naithani S.
Published: September 2014

A rapid loss of viability was recorded in sal seeds when dehydrated below 36.7% moisture content, at ambient conditions. Seed becomes non-viable at 6 days after harvest (dah). Gradual decline in total protein content due to corresponding increase in protease activity preceded loss of viability. Almost 43.7% and 52.6% loss in total protein content was observed on 3 dah in embryonic axis and cotyledon respectively of seeds showing 100% viability. No protease activity was detected in the embryonic axis and cotyledon of freshly harvested viable seeds (0 dah). The protease activity was detected after 12 hrs of storage and increased sharply with peak levels on 6 dah (0.71 Â± 0.04 / min/mg protein) and 4 dah (0.16 Â± 0.01 / min/mg protein) in embryonic axis and cotyledon respectively. Later on the enzyme activity declined sharply in both the tissues. Enhanced protease activity in embryonic axes and cotyledons has been discussed with corresponding decline in total protein during desiccation induced loss of viability in sal seeds.
Análisis del Desempeño Estudiantil en las Pruebas de Estado para Educación Media en Colombia mediante Modelos Jerárquicos Lineales
Authors: Orjuela Jaime
Published: September 2014

En este artículo se describe la utilización de los Modelos Jerárquicos Lineales para hallar los determinantes individuales de desempeño en las pruebas de estado para educación media en Colombia, con los datos del año 2009, que son los últimos disponibles públicamente y provistos por el Instituto Colombiano para el Fomento de la Educación Superior (ICFES).

Inicialmente se hace la presentación detallada de los datos así como de las exclusiones, consideraciones y justificación del subconjunto de datos finalmente procesados.  Posteriormente se expone brevemente el marco teórico de los Modelos Jerárquicos Lineales, así como su aplicación concreta en la investigación de los determinantes de desempeño en las pruebas de estado.  El análisis de los resultados permite concluir que existe una relación directa entre algunas características no académicas del estudiante y las competencias evaluadas en la prueba de estado al finalizar su formación media y que dichas características (sociales y económicas) difieren notoriamente entre colegios públicos y privados, y entre jornadas diurnas ordinarias y otras jornadas.
Early indicators of severity and construction of a risk model for prognosis based upon laboratory parameters in patients with hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome
Authors: Du Hong , Li Jing , Yu Hai-Tao , Jiang Wei , Zhang Ye , Wang Jun-Ning , Wang Ping-Zhong , Bai Xue-Fan
Published: September 2014

The objective of this study was to explore the role of laboratory parameters as early indicators of severity and as effective predictors of prognosis in patients with hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS).

A total of 356 patients were enrolled in this study and were divided into mild, moderate, severe and critical types according to the clinical classification of HFRS. The levels of 12 routinely tested laboratory parameters during the acute stage among the four types were compared. The predictive values of the laboratory parameters for prognosis were analyzed, and a risk model for prognosis based upon the parameters was constructed.

The levels of white blood counts (WBC), platelets (PLT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), albumin (ALB), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Scr), prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) demonstrated significant differences among the four types (p<0.001); WBC, AST, PT and fibrinogen (Fib) were major independent risk factors for death; WBC, AST, PT and Fib used in combination were better for predicting prognosis than single parameters used alone (p<0.001).

Some routinely tested laboratory parameters can be beneficial as early indicators of severity of HFRS. Using a combination of WBC, AST, PT and Fib to predict the outcome in patients with HFRS exhibited acceptable diagnostic capability.
Adopting European Network for Health Technology Assessments (EunetHTA) core model for diagnostic technologies for improving the accuracy and appropriateness of blood gas analyzers’ assessment
Authors: Franchin Tiziana , Faggiano Francesco , Plebani Mario , Muraca Maurizio , De Vivo Liliana , Derrico Pietro , Ritrovato Matteo
Published: September 2014

Point-of-care testing (POCT) is a successful methodology for meeting clinical expectations of rapid and accurate results. Scientific literature has moreover highlighted and confirmed the necessity of individuating the best technological solution, in accordance with clinical requirements and contextualized to the whole health organization, where it will be implemented. Health Technology Assessment (HTA) can assist in reaching an appropriate and contextualized decision on a health technology. The aim of this study is to adapt a HTA core model for improving the evaluation of a POCT technology: blood gas analyzers.

The European Network for Health Technology Assessment (EUnetHTA) core model for diagnostic technologies was applied for evaluating globally marketed blood gas analyzers. Evaluation elements were defined according to available literature and validated using the Delphi method.

A HTA model of 71 issues, subdivided into 26 topics and 10 domains, was obtained by interviewing 11 healthcare experts over two rounds of Delphi questionnaires. Ten context parameters were identified in order to define the initial scenario from which the technology assessment was to begin.

The model presented offers a systematic and objective structure for the evaluation of blood gas analyzers, which may play a guidance role for healthcare operators approaching the evaluation of such technologies thus improving, in a contextualized fashion, the appropriateness of purchasing.
Urinary thiosulfate as failed prostate cancer biomarker – an exemplary multicenter re-evaluation study
Authors: Stephan Carsten , Wilkosz Jacek , Różański Waldemar , Ecke Thorsten H. , Lein Michael , Bryś Magdalena , Krześlak Anna , Chwatko Grażyna , Jung Klaus
Published: September 2014

In 2013, thiosulfate in urine has been proposed as promising prostate cancer (PCa) biomarker. However, a missing comparison with other proven PCa markers suggested a re-evaluation study. Therefore, together with the authors from the initial study, the diagnostic accuracy of thiosulfate was compared with that of urinary prostate cancer associated 3 (PCA3), serum prostate health index (Phi), and percent free prostate-specific antigen (%fPSA). Thiosulfate was further measured in a multicenter approach to exclude center-related biases.

Thiosulfate, calculated as ratio of thiosulfate to urinary creatinine (TS/Crea ratio), was measured in two cohorts in a total of 269 patients. In the retrospective study (n=160) PCA3, Phi, PSA, and %fPSA were compared with the TS/Crea ratio between patients with and without PCa according to the prostate needle biopsy results. The second prospective cohort included 109 patients from four centers.

The median TS/Crea ratio was not statistically different between the patients with and without PCa. The receiver-operating characteristics showed that the TS/Crea ratio was unable to discriminate between patients with and without PCa in contrast to %fPSA, Phi, and PCA3. In all four centers, the low median TS/Crea ratios (<1 mmol/mol) in both patient cohorts were confirmed and thiosulfate was again not able to distinguish between them (p-values, 0.13–0.90).

This study could not confirm the previously observed high median TS/Crea ratio in PCa patients in comparison to non-PCa patients. Thiosulfate subsequently failed as PCa biomarker while PCA3 and Phi showed the expected diagnostic improvement.
No effect of CYP3A4 intron 6 C>T polymorphism (CYP3A4*22) on lipid-lowering response to statins in Greek patients with primary hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Ragia Georgia , Kolovou Vana , Tavridou Anna , Elens Laure , Tselepis Alexandros D. , Elisaf Moses , Van Schaik Ron H.N. , Kolovou Genovefa , Manolopoulos Vangelis G.
Published: September 2014

Background: Interindividual variability exists in statin lipid-lowering response, partially attributed to genetic factors. CYP3A4 intron 6 C>T polymorphism (CYP3A4*22 allele, rs35599367) has been recently identified and was associated with reduced CYP3A4 expression. We analyzed the association of CYP3A4*22 allele with response to atorvastatin and simvastatin.

Methods: A total of 416 statin-treated (207 atorvastatin- and 209 simvastatin-treated) adults with primary hypercholesterolemia were included in the study. Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were measured at baseline and on 6 months of treatment. CYP3A4*22 allele was analyzed with TaqMan assay.

Results: In the entire cohort population, 41 individuals carried CYP3A4*22 allele (18 in atorvastatin and 23 in simvastatin treatment). CYP3A4*22 allele was not associated with lipid-lowering response to atorvastatin or simvastatin. No sex-gene or statin dose-gene interaction was observed in either statin-treated patient cohort.

Conclusions: The effect of CYP3A4*22 allele on lipid-lowering response to CYP3A metabolized statins, if present, can potentially be masked by relevant confounding or uncontrolled factors; therefore, further population-driven studies are required.
Diagnosis of the Infection of Sunflower by Orobanche cumana Using Multicolour Fluorescence imaging
Authors: Pérez-Bueno María Luisa , Barón Matilde , García-Carneros Ana Belén , Molinero-Ruiz Leire
Published: September 2014

is an holoparasite and thus totally dependent on sunflower for fixed carbon. Initial stages of the infection occur in the first weeks after sowing and are critical for the establishment of a continuum between the host and the parasite vascular system. From that moment the parasite obtains its supply of water, mineral nutrients, and assimilates from the host plant. Alterations of plant metabolism can be detected using remote sensing techniques for detection of fluorescence emitted by plants. One of these indirect techniques is multicolour fluorescence imaging. In this work, we assessed the early infection of sunflower by
Post-Resuscitation Care for Neonates Receiving Positive Pressure Ventilation at Birth
Authors: Akinloye Olusegun , O’Connell Colleen , Allen Alexander C. , El-Naggar Walid
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To investigate if postresuscitation care (PRC) is indicated for all infants ≥35 weeks’ gestation who receive positive pressure ventilation (PPV) at birth, explore the aspects of this care and the factors most predictive of it.

METHODS:

Our hospital admits any infant who requires PPV at birth to special (intermediate/intensive) neonatal care unit (SNCU) for observation for at least 6 hours. All infants ≥35 weeks’ gestation born between 1994 and 2013, who received PPV at birth, were reviewed. We examined perinatal factors that could predict the need for PRC after short (<1 minute) and prolonged (≥1 minute) PPV, admission course, neonatal morbidities, and the aspects of care given.

RESULTS:

Among 87 464 infants born, 3658 (4.2%) had PPV at birth with 3305 (90%) admitted for PRC. Of those, 1558 (42.6%) were in the short PPV group and 2100 (57.4%) in the prolonged PPV group. Approximately 59% of infants who received short PPV stayed in the SNCU for ≥1 day. Infants who received prolonged PPV were more likely to have morbidities and require special neonatal care. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed the risk factors of placental abruption, assisted delivery, small-for-dates, gestational age <37 weeks, low 5-minute Apgar score, and need for intubation at birth to be independent predictors for SNCU stay ≥1 day and need for assisted ventilation, central lines, and parenteral nutrition.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data support the need for PRC even for infants receiving short PPV at birth.
Functional Status in Children With ADHD at Age 6–8: A Controlled Community Study
Authors: Efron Daryl , Sciberras Emma , Anderson Vicki , Hazell Philip , Ukoumunne Obioha C. , Jongeling Brad , Schilpzand Elizabeth J. , Bisset Matthew , Nicholson Jan M.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To examine the functional status (mental health, academic performance, peer problems) of a community-based sample of children who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and non-ADHD controls, and to investigate gender and subtype differences.

METHODS:

Children aged 6 to 8 years were recruited through 43 Melbourne schools, using a 2-stage screening (parent and teacher Conners 3 ADHD index) and case confirmation (Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children, Version IV; [DISC-IV]) procedure. Outcome measures were mental health disorders (DISC-IV), academic performance (Wide Range Achievement Test 4), and peer problems (Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire). Unadjusted and adjusted linear and logistic regression were used to compare ADHD and non-ADHD controls.

RESULTS:

A total of 179 children who have ADHD and 212 non-ADHD controls were recruited. Compared with controls, children who had ADHD had higher odds of externalizing (odds ratio [OR], 11.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.6–21.6; P < .001) and internalizing (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.2–7.2; P = .02) disorders; poorer reading (effect size, −0.66) and mathematics (effect size, −0.69) performance; and more peer problems (P < .001). Boys and girls who had ADHD were equally impaired. Only 17% of children in our ADHD group had been previously diagnosed. Previous diagnosis was higher in the Combined group and for boys.

CONCLUSIONS:

In their second year of school, children who had ADHD performed worse than controls across all functional domains, yet only a minority had been formally diagnosed with ADHD. Findings highlight the need for earlier diagnosis and intervention.
Out-of-Home Placement for Children and Adolescents With Disabilities
Authors: Friedman Sandra L. , Kalichman Miriam A. ,   COUNCIL ON CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES, Norwood Kenneth W. , Adams Richard C. , Brei Timothy , Burke Robert T. , Davis Beth Ellen , Houtrow Amy J. , Kuo Dennis Z. , Levy Susan E. , Turchi Renee M. , Wiley Susan E. , Murphy Nancy A.
Published: September 2014

This Clinical Report was reaffirmed February 2019 and November 2024.

The vast majority of children and youth with chronic and complex health conditions who also have intellectual and developmental disabilities are cared for in their homes. Social, legal, policy, and medical changes through the years have allowed for an increase in needed support within the community. However, there continues to be a relatively small group of children who live in various types of congregate care settings. This clinical report describes these settings and the care and services that are provided in them. The report also discusses reasons families choose out-of-home placement for their children, barriers to placement, and potential effects of this decision on family members. We examine the pediatrician’s role in caring for children with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex medical problems in the context of responding to parental inquiries about out-of-home placement and understanding factors affecting these types of decisions. Common medical problems and care issues for children residing outside the family home are reviewed. Variations in state and federal regulations, challenges in understanding local systems, and access to services are also discussed.
Contraception for Adolescents
Authors: Ott Mary A. , Sucato Gina S. ,   COMMITTEE ON ADOLESCENCE, Braverman Paula K. , Adelman William P. , Alderman Elizabeth M. , Breuner Cora C. , Levine David A. , Marcell Arik V. , O’Brien Rebecca F.
Published: September 2014

This Technical Report was reaffirmed March 2021.

A working knowledge of contraception will assist the pediatrician in both sexual health promotion as well as treatment of common adolescent gynecologic problems. Best practices in adolescent anticipatory guidance and screening include a sexual health history, screening for pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, counseling, and if indicated, providing access to contraceptives. Pediatricians’ long-term relationships with adolescents and families allow them to help promote healthy sexual decision-making, including abstinence and contraceptive use. Additionally, medical indications for contraception, such as acne, dysmenorrhea, and heavy menstrual bleeding, are frequently uncovered during adolescent visits. This technical report provides an evidence base for the accompanying policy statement and addresses key aspects of adolescent contraceptive use, including the following: (1) sexual history taking, confidentiality, and counseling; (2) adolescent data on the use and side effects of newer contraceptive methods; (3) new data on older contraceptive methods; and (4) evidence supporting the use of contraceptives in adolescent patients with complex medical conditions.
Thinking beyond Aristotle: The Turn to How in Comparative Rhetoric
Authors: Mao Luming
Published: September 2014

Any modest attempt in comparative rhetoric to think beyond aristotle and beyond a single culture is enough to reveal Diversity in the use of language to converse, to instruct, and to persuade and in the concepts and theories developed to inform language practices. Since the publication, in 1971, of Robert Oliver'sCommunication and Culture in Ancient India and China, one of the early studies that recognized the need for and benefits of studying non-Euro-American rhetorics, comparative rhetoric has made significant advances as interest in moving beyond Euro-American-centrism in studies of rhetoric steadily grows. Comparative rhetoric, committed to different ways of knowing and speaking and to different forms of inquiry, investigates across time and space communicative practices that frequently originate in noncanonical contexts and are often marginalized, forgotten, or erased altogether. Acting in response to globalization, comparative rhetoric aims to transform dominant rhetorical traditions and paradigms. As an interdisciplinary enterprise, it intersects with cognate studies and theories to challenge the prevailing power imbalances and patterns of knowledge production.
Amorphous determination in calcium sulfoaluminate materials by external and internal methods
Authors: García-Maté Marta , Santacruz Isabel , Cuesta Ana , León-Reina Laura , Aranda Miguel A. G. , Baco Isabelle , Morin Vincent , Walenta Günther , Gartner Ellis , De la Torre Ángeles G.
Published: September 2014

External standard methodology has been successfully applied to quantify the known amounts of amorphous component that are increasingly added to cement-related materials. The consistency and accuracy of the methodology were demonstrated by the R2values of the least-square fits determined against weighed amorphous amounts, which were close to 1·0 in all the series. This method requires common laboratory X-ray powder diffractometers (knowing the equipment constant) and avoids the dilution/alteration of the sample. However, the obtained values may be biased due to poor particle statistics. On the other hand, internal standard analysis in transmission geometry is suitable to determine the absolute amorphous and crystalline non-quantified contents that are less biased owing to enhanced particle averaging statistics. This method is, however, experimentally tedious due to the addition of the internal standard and the sample loading in the X-ray diffraction sample holders which represent inherent drawbacks to follow amorphous evolutions.
Investigation of piezoelectric composite transducer in ultrasonic monitoring of cement hydration
Authors: Li Lan , Xu Dongyu , Huang Shifeng , Cheng Xin
Published: September 2014

Ultrasonic receiving transducers were fabricated by using 1–3 type cement/polymer based piezoelectric composites as sensing elements and a mixture of cement and epoxy resin as packaging material. An electromagnetic shielding coating material was used as a shielding layer. Based on the ultrasonic wave technique, the hydration reaction processes of Portland cement pastes with various water-to-cement ratios (w/c = 0·28, 0·40 and 0·50) were monitored by using the ultrasonic transducers. Performance analysis of the transducers showed that the shielded transducer has characteristics of a high signal-to-noise ratio, large head wave amplitude and a clear waveform. The head wave amplitude of the shielded transducer was 73% greater than that of the unshielded transducer, and the amplitude ratio of the head wave to the second wave of the shielded transducer was also increased (by 46%). The relationship between waveform and the wave parameters of the received ultrasonic wave and cement hydration reaction time was analysed. It was found that the cement hydration reaction process can be divided into different periods. The wave velocity in the cement paste is sensitive to w/c ratio, and increases with the progress of cement hydration reaction as well as the compressive strength. This was confirmed by the micro-morphology of the cement paste at various periods.
Behaviour and design calculations of recycled aggregate concrete-filled steel tube (RACFST) members
Authors: Yang You-Fu , Hou Chao
Published: September 2014

This paper describes research work on the performance and design calculations of recycled aggregate concrete filled steel tube (RACFST) members, especially the most recent developments in China. Firstly, experimental studies on RACFST members subjected to short-term static loading, long-term sustained loading and cyclic flexural loading are summarised and analysed, and recent advances in the behaviour of RACFST stub columns after exposure to high temperatures (300–800°C) are also reviewed. The experimental results show that, in general, RACFST members have similar performance to concrete filled steel tube (CFST) members when subjected to the same loading conditions. However, due to the more serious inherent defects of recycled aggregate concrete compared with normal concrete, RACFST members have a lower bearing capacity and stiffness than their CFST counterparts. Secondly, design formulae for RACFST members are suggested and the calculated bearing capacities using the simplified equations generally agree well with the experimental results. Finally, the potential research needs of RACFST structures are discussed.
Irrigation planning for sustainable rain-fed agriculture in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Thomas T. , Nayak P. C. , Ghosh N. C.
Published: September 2014

The recent spells of recurrent and consecutive droughts in the Bundelkhand region in Central India have led to uncertain rain-fed agriculture and its sustainability. Adequate knowledge of starting dates and lengths of dry spells has a considerable importance in rain-fed agriculture, irrigation planning, and various decision-making processes. The long dry spells incur heavy costs to the affected communities in the form of lost crop production and reduced crop yield, particularly in semi-arid regions. The sustainability of agriculture very much depends on the provision of supplemental irrigation during droughts, for which a detailed analysis of dry spells is a pre-requisite. An attempt has been made to study the temporal variation of dry spell lengths to identify whether it can be related to climate change. The dry spell analysis revealed that two critical dry spells with spell lengths of 10 days and more occurs invariably every year and therefore rain-fed agriculture needs adequate supplemental irrigation backup for sustainable operations under such a scenario. The supplemental irrigation requirements have been estimated for each critical dry spell period for all development blocks in each district, which will provide useful inputs to decision-makers for planning agricultural operations during an impending drought scenario.