bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMBAT-TB-NeoDB: fostering tuberculosis research through integrative analysis using graph database technologies
Authors: Lose Thoba , van Heusden Peter , Christoffels Alan
Published: August 2019

Motivation

Recent advancements in genomic technologies have enabled high throughput cost-effective generation of ‘omics’ data from M.tuberculosis (M.tb) isolates, which then gets shared via a number of heterogeneous publicly available biological databases. Albeit useful, fragmented curation negatively impacts the researcher’s ability to leverage the data via federated queries.

Results

We present Combat-TB-NeoDB, an integrated M.tb ‘omics’ knowledge-base. Combat-TB-NeoDB is based on Neo4j and was created by binding the labeled property graph model to a suitable ontology namely Chado. Combat-TB-NeoDB enables researchers to execute complex federated queries by linking prominent biological databases, and supplementary M.tb variants data from published literature.

Availability and implementation

The Combat-TB-NeoDB (https://neodb.sanbi.ac.za) repository and all tools mentioned in this manuscript are freely available at https://github.com/COMBAT-TB.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Insulin-like growth factor-I prevents hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha-dependent G1/S arrest by activating cyclin E/cyclin-dependent kinase2 via the phoshatidylinositol-3 kinase/AKT/forkhead box O1/Cdkn1b pathway in porcine granulosa cells†
Authors: Li Chengyu , Liu Zhaojun , Zhou Jiaqi , Meng Xueqin , Liu Shuo , Li Weijian , Zhang Xue , Zhou Jilong , Yao Wang , Dong Chao , Cao Yan , Li Rongyang , Chen Baobao , Jiang Aiwen , Jiang Yi , Ning Caibo , Zhao Fang , Wei Yinghui , Sun Shao-chen , Tao Jingli , Wu Wangjun , Shen Ming , Liu Honglin
Published: August 2019

As the follicle develops, the thickening of the granulosa compartment leads to progressively deficient supply of oxygen in granulosa cells (GCs) due to the growing distances from the follicular vessels. These conditions are believed to cause hypoxia in GCs during folliculogenesis. Upon hypoxic conditions, several types of mammalian cells have been reported to undergo cell cycle arrest. However, it remains unclear whether hypoxia exerts any impact on cell cycle progression of GCs. On the other hand, although the GCs may live in a hypoxic environment, their mitotic capability appears to be unaffected in growing follicles. It thus raises the question whether there are certain intraovarian factors that might overcome the inhibitory effects of hypoxia. The present study provides the first evidence suggesting that cobalt chloride (CoCl2)-mimicked hypoxia prevented G1-to-S cell cycle progression in porcine GCs. In addition, we demonstrated that the inhibitory effects of CoCl2 on GCs cell cycle are mediated through hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha/FOXO1/Cdkn1b pathway. Moreover, we identified insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) as an intrafollicular factor required for cell cycle recovery by binding to IGF-I receptor in GCs suffering CoCl2 stimulation. Further investigations confirmed a role of IGF-I in preserving G1/S progression of CoCl2-treated GCs via activating the cyclin E/cyclin-dependent kinase2 complex through the phoshatidylinositol-3 kinase/protein kinase B (AKT)/FOXO1/Cdkn1b axis. Although the present findings were based on a hypoxia mimicking model by using CoCl2, our study might shed new light on the regulatory mechanism of GCs cell cycle upon hypoxic stimulation.
Cytogenetic evidence for a new genus of Triticeae (Poaceae) endemic to the Iberian Peninsula: description and comparison with related genera
Authors: Lucía Víctor , Rico Enrique , Anamthawat-Jónsson Kesara , Martínez-Ortega M Montserrat
Published: August 2019

Thinopyrum curvifolium, a halo-gypsophyte endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, has an uncertain cytogenetic composition. Moreover, it is often confused with other species of the genus due to morphological resemblance. In this study, we analyse its genomic composition using in situ hybridization and study lodicule morphology and foliar anatomy, to identify distinguishing traits of the species in comparison with the remaining representatives of Thinopyrum in the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands. In situ hybridization data support the genomic formula 2n = 4x = 28, EbP. Lodicule morphology and foliar anatomy proved helpful in characterizing the species. These new discoveries, in addition to the macromorphological data compiled, support the contentions that (1) T. curvifolium should be segregated from Thinopyrum sensu D.R.Dewey, and (2) a new cytogenetically based genus should be proposed in order to classify the species properly according to the cytogenetically based criteria traditionally proposed for the classification of Triticeae. Therefore, we hereby propose a new genus named Pauneroa gen. nov., including the new nomenclatural combination Pauneroa curvifolia comb. nov., and provide a detailed iconography of the plant, macroscopically comparing the genus with closely related genera.
The Stability Study of Thermodynamic Parameters of Sorption of Light Hydrocarbons on Poly [Trimethylsilyl (Propyn-1)] at Different Temperatures
Authors: Shiryaeva V E , Korolev A A , Popova T P , Kanateva A Y , Kurganov A A
Published: August 2019

Chromatographic determination of the thermodynamic parameters of sorption for light hydrocarbons retention on a stationary phase based on poly [trimethylsilyl (propyn-1)] (PTMSP) was performed and the effect of column preheating at temperatures up to 260°C on the retention of analytes was investigated. It was shown that heating the column to 130°C does not affect the retention of the analytes. At temperatures above 130°C, the gradual decrease of the retention of analytes on PTMSP stationary phase is observed. The process is non-selective and proceeds at the same extent for all the studied hydrocarbons, regardless of the size and geometry of the molecule. Values of enthalpy and entropy of sorption of light hydrocarbons are determined for the original column and after its aging at 200°C. The enthalpy of sorption of the analytes at the PTMSP phase is practically independent on the heating temperature of the PTMSP phase, whereas the loss of entropy increases after heating. The increase of the entropy factor after the heating of the PTMSP stationary phase is associated with its aging and is confirmed by the construction of compensation functions for treated and untreated columns.
Comprehensive autophagy evaluation in cardiac disease models
Authors: Kaludercic Nina , Maiuri Maria Chiara , Kaushik Susmita , Fernández Álvaro F , de Bruijn Jenny , Castoldi Francesca , Chen Yun , Ito Jumpei , Mukai Risa , Murakawa Tomokazu , Nah Jihoon , Pietrocola Federico , Saito Toshiro , Sebti Salwa , Semenzato Martina , Tsansizi Lorenza , Sciarretta Sebastiano , Madrigal-Matute Julio
Published: August 2019

Autophagy is a highly conserved recycling mechanism essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis. The pathophysiological role of autophagy has been explored since its discovery 50 years ago, but interest in autophagy has grown exponentially over the last years. Many researchers around the globe have found that autophagy is a critical pathway involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac diseases. Several groups have created novel and powerful tools for gaining deeper insights into the role of autophagy in the aetiology and development of pathologies affecting the heart. Here, we discuss how established and emerging methods to study autophagy can be used to unravel the precise function of this central recycling mechanism in the cardiac system.
Constructing data-derived family histories using electronic health records from a single healthcare delivery system
Authors: Leventer-Roberts Maya , Gofer Ilan , Barak Corren Yuval , Reis Ben Y , Balicer Ran
Published: August 2019

Background

In order to examine the potential clinical value of integrating family history information directly from the electronic health records of patients’ family members, the electronic health records of individuals in Clalit Health Services, the largest payer/provider in Israel, were linked with the records of their parents.

Methods

We describe the results of a novel approach for creating data-derived family history information for 2 599 575 individuals, focusing on three chronic diseases: asthma, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes.

Results

In our cohort, there were 256 598 patients with asthma, 55 309 patients with CVD and 66 324 patients with diabetes. Of the people with asthma, CVD or diabetes, the percentage that also had a family history of the same disease was 22.0%, 70.8% and 70.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

Linking individuals’ health records with their data-derived family history has untapped potential for supporting diagnostic and clinical decision-making.
Nudging the Powerful: Reflecting on How to Make Organisations Comply with Environmental Regulation
Authors: Lawton Amy
Published: August 2019

This article argues that there is a role for nudging the powerful in the environmental sphere. Like humans, businesses and organisations are not rational. Like humans, this could be exploited using choice architecture (more commonly known as ‘nudging’). Drawing on an empirical study of the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC), this article will explore how social norms can be used to shape organisational behaviour, with a view towards ‘nudging’ them towards more environmentally friendly behaviour. More specifically, social norms can be used to encourage collaboration or competition between regulatees, provided a connection to reputation can be made.
The Serotonin Brainstem Hypothesis for the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Authors: Kinney Hannah C , Haynes Robin L
Published: August 2019

The sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of postneonatal infant mortality in the United States today, with an overall rate of 0.39/1000 live births. It is defined as the sudden and unexpected death of an infant <12 months of age that remains unexplained after a complete autopsy, death scene investigation, and review of the clinical history. The serotonin brainstem hypothesis has been a leading hypothesis for SIDS over the last 2 decades. Our laboratory has studied this hypothesis over time with a variety of tissue techniques, including tissue receptor autoradiography, high performance liquid chromatography, Western blot analysis, immunocytochemistry, and proteomics. The purpose of this article is to review the progress in our laboratory toward supporting this hypothesis. We conclude that an important subset of SIDS infants has serotonergic abnormalities resulting from a “core lesion” in the medullary reticular formation comprised of nuclei that contain serotonin neurons. This lesion could lead to a failure of protective brainstem responses to homeostatic challenges during sleep in a critical developmental period which cause sleep-related sudden death.
Hepatic rupture in HELLP syndrome
Authors: Moura Catarina , Amaral Luís , Mendes Joana , Quintanilha Rui , Bento Francisco Melo , Leite Maria Inês , Melo António
Published: August 2019

HELLP syndrome is a rare complication of pregnancy that may result in serious consequences such as hepatic rupture, one of the most feared and potentially life-threatening complications. This article aims to carry out a literature review on hepatic rupture in the context of HELLP syndrome as well as to present two clinical cases.
Cutaneous metastases as a presenting sign of metastatic NSCLC
Authors: McSweeney William T , Tan Kimberley
Published: August 2019

Cutaneous metastases are rare and often late signs of an internal malignancy; however, this can be the presenting sign in very rare cases. These typically have a characteristic appearance and distribution based on the underlying malignancy but can be difficult to distinguish from other malignant or benign dermatoses. We report a case of a 69-year-old female who presented for elective excision of two cutaneous, fast-growing lesions on the chest wall. The patient’s past medical history is significant for a 45-pack-year smoking history. Pre-operative chest radiograph revealed a right upper lobe mass, with the lesions ultimately representing cutaneous metastases of a non-small-cell lung cancer. Although cutaneous metastases have been reported, difficulty remains in distinguishing other causes of cutaneous lesions from cutaneous metastases in the predominantly asymptomatic patient.
Candida species as commensal gut colonizers: A study of 133 longitudinally followed Swedish infants
Authors: Kondori Nahid , Nowrouzian Forough , Ajdari Marjan , Hesselmar Bill , Saalman Robert , Wold Agnes E , Adlerberth Ingegerd
Published: August 2019

The gut microbiota harbor a wide range of bacterial species, but also yeasts may be part of this ecosystem. Infants who are being treated in intensive care units are often colonized by Candida species. However, little is known regarding commensal yeast colonization of healthy infants and young children. Here the acquisition of yeast species was studied in a birth-cohort including 133 healthy Swedish infants. A rectal swab sample was obtained on day 3 of life, and fresh fecal samples were obtained at regular intervals up to 3 years of age; the samples were cultured quantitatively for yeasts. Colonization with yeasts increased rapidly in the first months of life, with 73/133 infants (55%) colonized at 6 months of age. The yeast numbers in positive samples decreased from an average of 105 cfu/g in infants aged 0–2 months to 103.5 cfu/g at 3 years of age. Candida albicans was the most frequently isolated species and reached higher population counts than the other species in culture-positive infants. The yeast colonization rate did not differ between infants who were delivered vaginally and those birthed via Caesarean section, whereas breastfed infants showed a lower colonization rate (p < 0.05 for 1 year of age compared to the other infants). The results demonstrate that yeasts, particularly C. albicans and C. parapsilosis (sensu lato), are common commensals in the gut microbiota of healthy infants and young children.
Estimation of singly transiting K2 planet periods with Gaia parallaxes
Authors: Sandford Emily , Espinoza Néstor , Brahm Rafael , Jordán Andrés
Published: August 2019

When a planet is only observed to transit once, direct measurement of its period is impossible. It is possible, however, to constrain the periods of single transiters, and this is desirable as they are likely to represent the cold and far extremes of the planet population observed by any particular survey. Improving the accuracy with which the period of single transiters can be constrained is therefore critical to enhance the long-period planet yield of surveys. Here, we combine Gaia parallaxes with stellar models and broad-band photometry to estimate the stellar densities of K2 planet host stars, then use that stellar density information to model individual planet transits and infer the posterior period distribution. We show that the densities we infer are reliable by comparing with densities derived through asteroseismology, and apply our method to 27 validation planets of known (directly measured) period, treating each transit as if it were the only one, as well as to 12 true single transiters. When we treat eccentricity as a free parameter, we achieve a fractional period uncertainty over the true single transits of $94^{+87}_{-58}{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$, and when we fix e = 0, we achieve fractional period uncertainty $15^{+30}_{-6}{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$, a roughly threefold improvement over typical period uncertainties of previous studies.
MEK/MELK inhibition and blood–brain barrier deficiencies in atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors
Authors: Meel Michaël H , Guillén Navarro Miriam , de Gooijer Mark C , Metselaar Dennis S , Waranecki Piotr , Breur Marjolein , Lagerweij Tonny , Wedekind Laurine E , Koster Jan , van de Wetering Marianne D , Schouten-van Meeteren Netteke , Aronica Eleonora , van Tellingen Olaf , Bugiani Marianna , Phoenix Timothy N , Kaspers Gertjan J L , Hulleman Esther
Published: August 2019

Background

Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) are rare, but highly aggressive. These entities are of embryonal origin occurring in the central nervous system (CNS) of young children. Molecularly these tumors are driven by a single hallmark mutation, resulting in inactivation of SMARCB1 or SMARCA4. Additionally, activation of the MAPK signaling axis and preclinical antitumor efficacy of its inhibition have been described in AT/RT.

Methods

We established and validated a patient-derived neurosphere culture and xenograft model of sonic hedgehog (SHH) subtype AT/RT, at diagnosis and relapse from the same patient. We set out to study the vascular phenotype of these tumors to evaluate the integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in AT/RT. We also used the model to study combined mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) and maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for AT/RT.

Results

We found MELK to be highly overexpressed in both patient samples of AT/RT and our primary cultures and xenografts. We identified a potent antitumor efficacy of the MELK inhibitor OTSSP167, as well as strong synergy with the MEK inhibitor trametinib, against primary AT/RT neurospheres. Additionally, vascular phenotyping of AT/RT patient material and xenografts revealed significant BBB aberrancies in these tumors. Finally, we show in vivo efficacy of the non-BBB penetrable drugs OTSSP167 and trametinib in AT/RT xenografts, demonstrating the therapeutic implications of the observed BBB deficiencies and validating MEK/MELK inhibition as a potential treatment.

Conclusion

Altogether, we developed a combination treatment strategy for AT/RT based on MEK/MELK inhibition and identify therapeutically exploitable BBB deficiencies in these tumors.
A Taper System for Predicting Height, Diameter, and Volume of Hardwoods
Authors: Wiant Harry V. , Yandle David O.
Published: August 2019

A simple taper system based on relative diameters and heights, is presented for 9 hardwood species. Procedures are described for predicting diameters and heights, and developing volume tables to any merchantable top diameters. A program (BASIC) is offered, upon request. North. J. Appl. For. 2:24-25, June 1984.
Small-Woodlot Management by Single-Tree Selection:
21-Year Results
Authors: Johnson James A.
Published: August 2019

In 1958, a case study was established to determine the economic benefits and improvements in quality that could be attained in a previously unmanaged stand of northern hardwoods by using the single-tree selection system. The average net earnings realized per man-hour from three harvests on a 55-acre woodlot, in 1982 dollars, were $7.82, $11.95, and $16.33, respectively. Annual growth of sawlog residuals increased from 119 to 138 board feet per acre. The initial cull of 25% in sawlog trees was reduced to 12%. Board foot volume of growing stock increased by 83% in grade 1 and 3.5% in grade 2 trees, but decreased 8.1% in grade 3 trees. Study results indicate that many unmanaged woodlots have the potential for producing revenue, while allowing the owner to manage for esthetic and multiple-use objectives at the same time. North. J. Appl. For. 1:69-71, Dec. 1984
A Practical Alternative to Single-Tree Selection?
Authors: Miller Gary W. , Smith H. Clay
Published: August 2019

When landowners want to develop and maintain an uneven-aged tree structure in eastern hardwood stands, single-tree selection often is suggested as the only advisable, long-term partial regeneration harvest method. Single-tree selection is preferred because it provides a means for improving quality and controlling stocking of the residual stand necessary for sustained yield of desired products. Although studies have shown that single-tree selection is feasible where desirable shade-tolerant species can be regenerated, it is rarely applied because marking stands for harvest can be difficult and time consuming. Instead, diameter-limit cutting is the most common partial regeneration practice used in eastern hardwoods, primarily because it is much easier to apply. Unfortunately, strict diameter-limit cuts do not provide for control of residual stocking or improve the quality of residual trees. However, based on 20-yr results, most objectives of single-tree selection can be attained with flexible diameter-limit harvest guidelines based on potential value increase of individual trees combined with an improvement cut in small sawtimber trees at each periodic cut. North. J. Appl. For. 10(1):32-38.
Whole Stand Yield and Density Equations for Fourteen Forest Types in Minnesota
Authors: Walters David K. , Ek Alan R.
Published: August 2019

Models that estimate per acre basal area, number of stems, quadratic mean diameter, volumes to specified top diameters, and biomass per acre by stand age and site index were developed and fitted to data for 14 forest types in Minnesota. The resulting equations were developed from linear and nonlinear least squares analyses using USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis data. These equations are intended for projecting future forest characteristics including yield on a statewide basis assuming the continuation of the level of management inherent in the data. Parameter estimates and goodness-of-fit statistics are provided for each model. Also discussed are the implementation procedures, assumptions, consistency of estimates, estimates for mixed species stands, and other considerations in applications. North. J. Appl. For. 10(2): 75-85.
A Jack Pine Bark Factor Equation for Michigan
Authors: Fowler Gary W.
Published: August 2019

A multiple linear regression equation was developed to predict bark factor for jack pine in Michigan as a function of tree height. The equation was validated on independent data sets. The prediction equation yielded average relative errors from -2.9 to 0.4% for all tree heights above stump height. At stump height the average relative errors varied from -5.3 to -2.3%. The jack pine equation was compared with red pine and aspen bark factor equations. The new equation can be used to more accurately estimate tree and log wood volumes than when using a constant bark factor determined at breast height, which, in general leads to underestimates of wood volume. North. J. Appl. For. 10(2):86-89.
Polymer Root Dip Increases Survival of Stressed Bareroot Seedlings
Authors: Alm Alvin , Stanton John
Published: August 2019

Moisture-absorbing polymers are often used as a preplant root dip in some areas of the United States to protect bareroot seedlings against moisture loss and increase survival. There is little documentation in the literature on the effectiveness of these root dips. A series of plantings with red pine, jackpine, and white spruce tested seedlings dipped in Terra-Sorb® and Terra-Verde® versus undipped controls. In some of the plantings, seedlings were stressed by air-drying after dipping for periods up to 20 min before planting. Results indicated the polymers can increase survival especially in situations where the seedlings have been stressed. Use of polymers in planting programs should be considered as they offer a form of insurance against survival loss resulting from seedlings being exposed to drying during the planting process. North. J. Appl. For. 10(2):90-92.
A New Look at the Canadian Market for U.S. Hardwood Lumber
Authors: Armstrong James P. , Ponzurick Thomas G. , Luppold William G.
Published: August 2019

Producers of U.S. hardwoods have aggressively expanded into international markets. This expansion has increased the requirements for information on specific international markets. One such export market is Canada. The authors conducted an extensive survey of Canadian hardwood lumber buyers in order to augment existing information on this market. The results indicate that Canadians purchase a wide variety of U.S. hardwood lumber species; the primary species are red oak, hard maple, and white oak, in declining order. All grades of U.S. hardwood lumber are purchased; approximately half of the lumber was graded FAS & IF, and one-third was graded No. 2 Common or below. The U.S. accounted for 98% of the hardwood lumber imported by Canada in 1990; South American countries were the next largest source. North. J. Appl. For. 10(3): 128-131.
A Parsimonious Number of Growth Curves
Authors: Zeide Boris
Published: August 2019

Construction of new site index curves is often justified by a lack of growth information for a given species and site. This justification presumes that there is a one-to-one correspondence between growth pattern and stand conditions which are determined by numerous genetic and ecological factors together with their complex interactions. Because these factors are combined in an infinite number of ways, each stand is unique and needs its own site index curve. The effort required for collecting growth information would be prohibitive. This effort is also unnecessary because many existing curves coincide with each other and are, therefore, redundant. Differences in species, site, and construction methods do not prevent the appearance of the same growth patterns. These facts indicate that unique growth conditions do not mean that each stand has a unique growth pattern. Therefore, a more productive approach to growth modeling consists of distilling these patterns from existing curves and yield tables rather than piling up more new site index curves. Earlier investigations showed that the diversity in growth curves can be reduced to a small number (15-30) of growth types. The present study demonstrates that the number of types can be further reduced to 3-5 without sacrificing accuracy of growth predictions. North. J. Appl. For. 10(3):132-136.
Oak Regeneration Potential Increased by Shelterwood Treatments
Authors: Schlesinger Richard C. , Sander Ivan L. , Davidson Kenneth R.
Published: August 2019

In much of the Central Hardwood Forest Region, oak species are not regenerating well, even though large oak trees are common within the existing forests. The shelterwood method has been suggested as a potential tool for establishing and developing advanced regeneration where it is lacking. The 10-yr results from a study of several variants of the shelterwood method show that on good sites in the Missouri Ozarks Region, a heavy understory treatment is most important, while on average sites, reducing the overstory density level is most important. The right combinations of overstory and understory treatments will likely be different for different stands and locations, but the shelterwood method does appear to be a useful silvicultural tool for perpetuating central hardwood oak forests. North. J. Appl. For. 10(4): 149-153.
Profitability of Precommercially Thinning Oak Stump Sprouts
Authors: Dwyer John P. , Dey Daniel C. , Kurtz William B.
Published: August 2019

Thinning oak stump sprouts to a single stem at an early age will increase diameter growth of the released stem. However, precommercial thinning represents a substantial investment which must be carried for many years before any returns are realized. We estimated the incremental gains in yield and the present net worth for five crop-tree release treatments of 5-yr-old coppice sprouts in the southeastern Missouri Ozarks and compared them to the results from unthinned control plots. The treatments involved thinning 100, 150, 200, 250, and all clumps of sprouts on the plots to a single stem. All thinning treatments increased diameter growth and yield compared to the control, but at a 5% rate of return, the control treatment produced the largest present net worth. We have concluded that based on the growth response and timber price situations within the Ozark Region, precommercial thinning of oak stump sprouts is not an economical management practice. North. J. Appl. For. 10(4):179-183.
The Next Generation's Forest: Woodland Owners' Attitudes Toward Estate Planning and Land Preservation in Connecticut
Authors: Broderick Stephpen H. , Hadden Kenneth P. , Heninger Brian
Published: August 2019

The tremendous escalation in property values during the 1980s created new problems and issues in the education of southern New England NIPF owners. Among these was an increased need for education on estate planning and land protection techniques. This paper describes the approach taken by the University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension System and several partners to assess NIPF owners' knowledge levels and needs in these areas. It reports on the results of a mail survey to NIPFs and on the implications those results have for future research and educational efforts. The results and implications should be applicable in other states where high land values and land fragmentation are important issues. North. J. Appl. For. 11(2):47-52.
Regeneration Success and Plant Species Diversity of Allegheny Hardwood Stands After Roundup Application and Shelterwood Cutting
Authors: Horsley Stephen B.
Published: August 2019

The presence of desirable regeneration and plant species diversity was studied in five Allegheny hardwood stands before and for 7 yr after application of Roundup herbicide and shelterwood cutting to remove interfering understories of hayscented and New York fern, striped maple, and beech and to establish desirable hardwood regeneration. In each of five 20 ac stands, 10 ac were sprayed with 1 lb ai (active ingredient)/ac of Roundup in August 1979; the remaining 10 ac were unsprayed. The entire 20 ac stand received a shelterwood seed cut the following winter. On treated plots, fern was reduced from 57% stocking before treatment to 7% 1 yr after treatment; striped maple and beech stocking was reduced by 16% during the same time. By the fourth year after treatment, regeneration stocking of desirable hardwood species had doubled on treated plots but remained unchanged on untreated control plots. Species diversity was measured by species richness, three diversity indices--Berger-Parker, Margalef and Shannon, and index-free diversity ordering. Neither the herbicide treatment nor the shelterwood seed cut had a statistically significant effect on species richness of either woody species or herbaceous species groups. Nor was there a significant effect of treatments on woody species diversity as measured by the three diversity indices. Index-free diversity ordering showed. (1) a trend toward increase in less common species on Roundup-treated areas, and (2) the diversity of herbaceous species groups was higher in all 7 yr after treatment with Roundup. Values of the three diversity indices were higher for herbaceous species on Roundup-treated subplots for 2 to 7 yr after treatment. Much of this increase resulted from germination of seed bank grasses, sedges, and Rubus spp. With the qualification that long-term and current browsing by deer has impoverished the flora of the Allegheny hardwood forest, diminishing potential treatment effects, the study demonstrated that Roundup treatment aided desirable regeneration establishment, did not have a negative impact on woody species or herbaceous species group diversity, and may have increased diversity of herbaceous species. North. J. Appl. For. 11(4): 109-116.
Opportunities for Solitude in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Authors: Watson Alan E.
Published: August 2019

Recreation visitors to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota were surveyed to examine the effects of a Forest Service proposal to reduce the number of entrance permits in hopes of increasing opportunities for solitude and reducing resource damage. Results suggest that: (1) reducing recreation-use limits will benefit a portion of the overnight visitors who reported difficulty finding an unoccupied campsite; (2) solitude opportunities can be meaningfully described by comparing visitor encounter levels with visitor tolerance for encounters; and (3) the least number of daily encounters rather than the average number may be the most useful evaluation criteria in determining if solitude opportunities exist. Furthermore, while minimal opportunities for solitude must be provided to meet the mandate of the Wilderness Act, understanding visitor preferences can help determine the quality of wilderness recreation opportunities. North. J. Appl. For. 12(1): 12-18.
Impact of Deer Browsing on Regeneration in Mixed Stands in Southern New England
Authors: Kittredge David B. , Ashton P. Mark S.
Published: August 2019

Browsing preferences by white-tailed deer were evaluated for 6 tree species in northeastern Connecticut. Deer density averaged 23/mile². Deer exhibited no species-specific preferences for seedlings greater than 19 in. For seedlings less than 19 in., hemlock and black birch were preferred. Red maple, sugar maple, and white pine seedlings were avoided. Red oak seedlings were neither preferred nor avoided. A much higher proportion of seedlings greater than 19.7 in. in height was browsed, regardless of species. Browsing preferences for species in the smaller seedling class, combined with a lack of preference for species in the larger class may result in future stands with less diverse tree species composition. Deer densities in excess of 23/mile² may be incompatible with regeneration of diverse forests in southern New England. North. J. Appl. For. 12(3):115-120.
Control of the Noxious Weed Mile-A-Minute (Polygonum perfoliatum) in Reforestation
Authors: McCormick Larry H. , Hartwig Nathan L.
Published: August 2019

Field studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of selected herbicides to control the noxious weed mile-a-minute (Polygonum perfoliatum L). The effectiveness of pre- and postemergence applications of the herbicides Oust®, Velpar L®, Arsenal®, AAtrex®, Pursuit®, and Pursuit Plus® and postemergence application of Roundup® were evaluated. Preemergence applications of most of the herbicides were more effective in controllingmile-a-minute than postemergence applications. Low preemergent rates of Oust, Velpar L, Arsenal, AAtrex, Pursuit, and Pursuit Plus were highly effective in controlling mile-a-minute; Roundup and Arsenal provided the best postemergence control. North. J. Appl. For. 12(3):127-132.
Vigor and Nutrition vs. Sap Sugar Concentration in Sugar Maples
Authors: Wilmot Timothy R. , Brett Philip W. , Tyree Melvin T.
Published: August 2019

Although maple dieback has received considerable recent attention in the Northeast, little has been reported about the relationship between sap sugar yield and crown health or crown nutrition. We measured sap sugar concentration (sweetness) in six northern Vermont maple stands in the springs of 1990-1992, and sap volume yield from tapholes at one stand in 1991. The stands differed in average crown dieback, canopy transparency, density, and mean dbh, as well as cation exchange capacity (CEC) of upper soil horizons. Sweetness of individual trees was correlated with sweetness measured the previous year (r > 0.72, P < 0.001) and with dbh (r > 0.45, P < 0.001), but correlations between sweetness and crown dieback or canopy transparency were low (r < 0.14). Sap volume was negatively correlated with crown dieback (r = -0.51, P = < 0.001). Possible explanations for these findings are discussed. Foliar nutrient status of trees was not well correlated with sap sweetness (r < 0.30). Affects of soil amendments, primarily cations, on sap sugar concentration were studied at three stands with low CEC. There were no treatment-dependent changes in sap sweetness 2 yr after the first fertilizer application. North. J. Appl. For. 12(4):156-162.
Competition Between Forest Brush and Planted White Spruce in North-Central Maine
Authors: Lautenschlager Richard A.
Published: August 2019

This experiment was designed to examine competition between planted white spruce (2 + 2 transplants and paperpot seedlings) and natural conifer regeneration, ferns, fireweed, grasses and sedges, hardwood brush, herbs, red raspberry, and shrubs on a somewhat poorly and a well drained site three growing seasons after planting in north-central Maine. Only conifers, hardwood brush, and red raspberry, however, produced enough cover to allow comparison of their competitive potentials. When present 0.5-1.5 m above ground and within 0.5 m of a planted stem, conifers, hardwood brush, and red raspberry cover consistently decreased spruce growth. When cover was equal, hardwood brush caused greater growth reductions than red raspberry, but raspberry cover was more common. Spruce grew better on the well drained than on the somewhat poorly drained site. Competitive vegetation was much more abundant on the well drained site, and reduced spruce growth to a greater degree there than on the somewhat poorly drained site. The smaller paperpot seedlings suffered more from competition and browsing than did the larger 2 + 2 transplants. Controlling broadleaved competition on the better site increased spruce growth; competition control on the poorer site was less critical but even there the control of hardwood brush and dense conifers increased spruce growth. North. J. Appl. For. 12(4):163-167.
Price Trends and Relationships for Red Oak and Yellow-Poplar Stumpage, Sawlogs, and Lumber in Ohio: 1975-1993
Authors: Luppold William G. , Baumgras John E.
Published: August 2019

The rapidly changing domestic and international hardwood markets of the 1980s had a large impact on the demand and price of hardwood lumber, logs, and stumpage. In this paper we examine inflation adjusted (real)prices for red oak and yellow-poplar stumpage, logs, and lumber. We then relate the observed trends to changes in domestic lumber consumption, lumber and log exports, sawmill technology, and forest inventory trends. Increasing real prices for red oak stumpage, logs, and lumber are the result of expanding domestic and international demand coupled with relatively limited stumpage supplies. Yellow-poplar, a species in relatively abundant supply and lower demand, experienced a decline in real prices for logs and lumber. Gains in stumpage prices have exceeded those for both logs and lumber, indicating that stumpage prices have benefited from transferred efficiencies in harvesting and milling. Although this study focuses on stumpage and log prices in Ohio from 1975 to 1993, the results appear to be relevant to adjacent states. North. J. Appl. For. 12(4):168-173.
Influencing Nonindustrial Private Forest Management Through the Property Tax System
Authors: Rathke David M. , Baughman Melvin J.
Published: August 2019

Minnesota currently offers property tax relief to private woodland owners through the 2b timberland class in the state's modified ad valorem tax system, and through the Tree Growth Tax Law (TGTL), a fixed rate, productivity tax. Enrollment in both these laws has dramatically increased in recent years, while the average tax payment has declined in both real and nominal dollars. A mail survey of nonindustrial private forest landowners found that participants in the TGTL generally pay much lower taxes than those in the ad valorem tax classes, and TGTL lands appear to be more intensively managed for timber. However, the TGTL's incentive for timber management may be its criteria for enrollment, not the tax rate. This study makes a strong case for requiring a management plan in order to be eligible for a lower tax rate. North. J. Appl. For. 13(1):30-36.
Vegetative Responses to Prescribed Burning in a Mature Red Pine Stand
Authors: Henning Sandra J. , Dickmann Donald I.
Published: August 2019

We investigated the effects of low-intensity, prescribed spring surface fires at varying intervals in a widely spaced, mature red pine plantation growing on a high quality sandy loam soil in northern Lower Michigan. Measurements of overstory characteristics, as well as the composition and development of the herbaceous and woody understory, were taken in unburned plots and during the seventh growing season following a single burn, the second growing season following the last of two burns at 5 yr intervals, and the growing season immediately following the last of four burns 2 yr intervals.

Except for loss of a few trees due to crown scorch early in the study when fuel loadings were high, the red pine overstory was minimally affected by fires at any return interval. Compared to unburned plots, fire had no effect on total species richness or percent cover of ground flora < 1.4 m tall, but species composition shifted; cover of mosses and lichens declined and black cherry seedlings increased at the two shortest fire intervals. Although percent cover of grasses, bracken fern, and Rubus spp. appeared to increase following fire, the clumped distribution of vegetation and interplot variability in overstory density obscured the statistical significance of these trends. Species richness and density of stems in the woody understory (> 1.4 m tall but < 10 cm dbh) declined abruptly as burning interval decreased and number of burns increased. Fewer than two woody understory species, on the average, persisted on plots burned every 2 yr, whereas nearly 12 grew on unburned plots. Postburn conditions were conducive to the re-establishment of black cherry and paper birch in the understory; density of all other major species dropped sharply after more than one fire. As time after the last fire increased, however, red maple, choke cherry, and white ash densities began to recover slowly, largely by sprouting. The significance of these findings to red pine managers in the Lake States is discussed. North. J. Appl. For. 13(3):140-146.
A Multiproduct Growth and Yield Model for the Circumboreal Aspens
Authors: Perala Donald A. , Host George E. , Jordan James K. , Cieszewski Christopher J.
Published: August 2019

A simulation model is described that grows stands of aspen of given age, site quality, and stocking from establishment to breakup. Specifying mean July air temperature allows custom application to most aspen growing regions in North America and Scandinavia. The program predicts total yields in number of trees, basal area, and biomass; and merchantable yields in cubic feet and cords for user-specified utilization standards, and in board feet, Scribner. North. J. Appl. For. 13(4):164-170.
Changes in the Condition and Species Composition of Developing Even-Aged Northern Hardwood Stands in Central New York
Authors: Wang Ziyin , Nyland Ralph D.
Published: August 2019

Five Central New York northern hardwood stands were regenerated by clearcutting method, and followed through 20 yr of development. Observations from permanent remeasured plots indicate that a closed canopy formed and completely shaded the ground by 10-15 yr. Data gathered before that time did provide general information about features like the proportion of area stocked with trees and the stem density. After canopy closure, no new species entered the stand. Yet the actual species composition continued to change throughout the 20 yr period. Additional changes will occur as relatively short-lived species like striped maple, pin cherry, and aspen die. For other species, the change of importance will continue to depend on differences in their growth rates and tolerance to shading. Collectively, these dynamics will likely prolong the relatively rapid shifting of species composition for at least one-third to one-half of a century. Such findings suggest that the onset of canopy closure marks the earliest time to glean realistic information about the future species composition of emerging even-aged northern hardwood stands, and that considerable uncertainty remains about what species will eventually dominate the sites. North. J. Appl. For. 13(4):189-194.
Determining Forest Harvest Impact Assessment Criteria Using Expert Opinion: A Delphi Study
Authors: Egan Andrew F. , Jones Stephen B.
Published: August 2019

Nonindustrial private forests (NIPFs) account for 58% of the nation's commercial forest. The stewardship of these forests is important to the sustainability of a broad array of forest values. However, little is known about the stewardship behaviors of NIPF owners, particularly as they relate to timber harvesting.

As a first step in exploring the stewardship of harvested NIPFs, criteria were developed to aid in evaluating the postlogging condition of these forestlands. A Delphi procedure was used to systematically elicit expert opinion on the establishment of these criteria. Twenty experts in the fields of forest management, silviculture, and timber harvesting participated in the process that involved 3 iterations and spanned 7 months. A rating system of prioritized evaluation criteria and measures emerged that could be used to assess an array of postharvest attributes. Applications of the system, in either its current or a modified form, include logger training program assessments and future studies of forest stewardship as it is reflected in postharvest site conditions. North. J. Appl. For. 14(1):20-25.
Individual Tree Volume Equations for Red Pine in Michigan
Authors: Fowler Gary W.
Published: August 2019

New total, pulpwood, sawtimber, and residual pulpwood cubic foot individual tree volume equations were developed for red pine in Michigan using nonlinear and multiple linear regression. Equations were also developed for Doyle, International 1/4 in., and Scribner bd ft volume, and a procedure for estimating pulpwood and residual pulpwood rough cord volumes from the appropriate cubic foot equations was described. Average ratios of residual pulpwood (i.e., topwood, cubic foot or cords) to mbf were developed for 7.6 and 9.6 in. sawtimber. Data used to develop these equations were collected during May-August 1983-1985 from 3,507 felled and/or standing trees from 27 stands in Michigan. Sixteen and 11 stands were located in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, respectively. All equations were validated on an independent data set. Rough cord volume estimates based on the new pulpwood equation were compared with contemporary tables for 2 small cruise data sets. The new equations can be used to more accurately estimate total volume and volume per acre when cruising red pine stands. North. J. Appl. For. 14(2):53-58.
Assessment of Ecological Land Type Community Characteristics for Silvicultural Diagnosis in the Central Hardwoods
Authors: Jose Shibu , Gillespie Andrew R.
Published: August 2019

If ecosystem management replaces traditional multiple-use management on national forests, changes must be made in the delineation of forest stands reflecting ecological uniformity rather than cover type or physiographic uniformity. With delineation of ecological land units must come an understanding of forest community response to silvicultural practices and other disturbance within these units. The objective of this study was to define forest community characteristics of ecological land type phases (ELTPs) or uniform, repeatable communities in the eastern Central Hardwood Forest.

Forest inventory data were collected from 80 plots along a moisture gradient in the Hoosier National Forest in southern Indiana. This gradient intersected recognized upland hardwood forest cover types which, with delineation by soil type, physiography, and indicator vegetation, could be classified into uniform ecological land type phases. Stand density, basal area, volume, standing biomass, productivity, species composition, and site index values for major species were compared among ELTPs using analysis of variance.

Results indicate that significant differences in these parameters exist among different ELTPs which once were classified all as "upland hardwoods." Standing basal area, volume, biomass, and annual basal area, volume, and biomass increments were significantly different among ELTPs. Dry slopes and dry ridges were the least productive units. Dry-mesic slopes and dry-mesic ridges proved most suited for white oak management, one of the most valuable species in the region. Thus, silviculturists and forest managers should recognize these important community differences when planning treatment or inventory in the Central Hardwood Region. North. J. Appl. For. 14(2):72-77.