bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alopecia Areata in Infants and Newborns
Authors: Crowder Julie Anne , Frieden Ilona J. , Price Vera H.
Published: March 2003

Alopecia areata is a common cause of nonscarring hair loss in children and adults. In newborns and very young infants, however, it is thought to be extremely rare. In this article we describe five cases of alopecia areata in patients less than 6 months of age and briefly discuss the pertinent differential diagnosis of infants and newborns with both patchy and complete hair loss. We propose that alopecia areata may be more common in this age group than the literature suggests.
A New Variant of Autosomal Recessive Exfoliative Ichthyosis
Authors: Zvulunov A. , Cagnano E. , Kachko L. , Shorer Z. , Elbedour K. , Stevens H.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We report unusual congenital ichthyosiform dermatosis in 5 of 12 children in two related families of unaffected, consanguineous Bedouin parents. It appeared shortly after birth as a fine peeling of nonerythematous skin on palms and soles. Gradually it evolved into prominent, well‐demarcated areas of peeling skin in moist and traumatized regions. The cutaneous manifestations share features of ichthyosis bullosa of Siemens (IBS) and peeling skin syndrome (PSS). Histologic examination revealed orthokeratosis, a thickened granular cell layer, and spongiosis without epidermolytic hyperkeratosis. On electron microscopy there was prominent intercellular edema and numerous aggregates of keratin filaments in basal keratinocytes. This combination of clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural features has not been previously reported in the heterogeneous group of congenital ichthyoses. We suggest that it represents a new variant of exfoliative ichthyosis.
Semicircular Lipoatrophy in a Child with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus after Subcutaneous Injections with Methotrexate
Authors: Haas Norbert , Henz Beate M. , Bunikowski Rita , Keitzer Rolf
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  Lipoatrophia semicircularis, a rare entity which presents as atrophic cutaneous indentations exclusively on the anterior thighs of women, is thought to result from physical trauma. Localized lipoatrophies are common following injection with drugs and occur in patients with collagen disease. We report a 10‐year‐old girl who developed semicircular lipoatrophy on the anterior thighs after treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with subcutaneous injections of methotrexate. Until now, subcutaneously administered methotrexate has not been reported to cause lipoatrophy. Other possible causes include underlying autoimmune disease, the predisposition for females to be affected, and local trauma, also from the injections, at the specific body site. We suggest that subcutaneous injections with methotrexate on the anterior thighs should be avoided or monitored closely in female patients with SLE.
Alopecia Areata in Children: A Clinical Profile
Authors: Nanda Arti , Al‐Fouzan Abdulwahab S. , Al‐Hasawi Fowzia
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Alopecia areata (AA) is prevalent among children in Kuwait. In this prospective survey we studied 215 children with AA to determine their clinical and epidemiologic features. Ninety‐seven percent of the children were of Arab ancestry. Girls outnumbered boys by a 2.5:1 ratio. The peak age of onset was seen between 2 and 6 years of age with a mean age of onset at 5.7 ± 2.8 years. A majority of the patients (80.5%) had mild disease and extensive disease (more than 50% hair loss) was seen in 13% of the children. A positive family history of AA was obtained in 51.6% of cases and nail changes were seen in 26.5% of the children. The age of onset, a positive family history of AA, and associated atopic disorders were observed to have no influence on the extent and severity of the disease. The results were compared with those reported elsewhere for this age group.
Childhood Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Henna Tattoo
Authors: Neri I. , Guareschi E. , Savoia F. , Patrizi A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Henna is a shrub cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, and North Africa; it is used, mixed with other substances, as a hair and body dye. Several cases are reported in the literature of sensitization to para‐phenylenediamine (PPD) contained in the henna tincture, but few of these are pediatric cases. We report two instances of allergic contact dermatitis due to temporary tattoos in children. In one case a patch test was positive for PPD. We suggest that the fashion of temporary henna tattoos in children is to be discouraged due to the serious consequences that a sensitization to PPD could have in their future.
Dyschromatosis Universalis Hereditaria: Report of a case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Al Hawsawi Khalid , Al Aboud Khalid , Ramesh V. , Al Aboud Daifullah
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We describe dyschromatosis universalis in a 19‐month‐old Saudi Arabian girl. She had no associated defects and none of the other family members were affected. Similar cases reported from countries other than the Far East, where the disease was first described, are discussed.
Multicentric Reticulohistiocytosis in a 14‐Year‐Old Girl
Authors: Outland J. David , Keiran Stephen J. , Schikler Kenneth N. , Callen Jeffrey P.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis is a rare multisystem disorder in which an infiltration of histiocytic cells causes papulonodular skin lesions and potentially a destructive polyarthritis. The active disease typically resolves spontaneously after 5–8 years, but the articular destruction can lead to permanent joint deformities. We present a case of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis in a 14‐year‐old girl. The number of papules on her hands decreased in number and her arthritic symptoms improved after 4 months of oral naproxen. Thirty months later her joint symptoms remained inactive and only six very small papules remained on her hands. Small flexor deformities were present in the distal interphalangeal joints of both index fingers. This case is an example of how multicentric reticulohistiocytosis can be a relatively stable and self‐limited disease but still cause permanent joint deformities.
Extensive Fixed Drug Eruption to Nimesulide with Cross‐sensitivity to Sulfonamides in a Child
Authors: Sarkar Rashmi , Kaur Charandeep , Kanwar Amrinder J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Nimesulide, a new nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug with a favorable tolerability profile, is being used increasingly in pediatric practice. Its common side effects pertain to the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system. The common cutaneous adverse effects are pruritus and skin rash. Rarely purpura and fixed drug eruptions have also been observed in adults. We present herein a case of nimesulide‐induced fixed drug eruption in a 10‐year‐old boy. The lesions were extensive and showed cross‐sensitivity to sulfonamides.
The Family Impact of Atopic Dermatitis in Children: The Role of the Parent Caregiver
Authors: Balkrishnan Rajesh , Housman Tamara S. , Grummer Sarah , Rapp Stephen R. , Clarke Jan , Feldman Steven R. , Fleischer Alan B.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Although some preliminary work exists examining the impact of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children on their families, there is no empirical work examining specific parent caregiver factors that could contribute to the family impact of this condition. We conducted a cross‐sectional, exploratory analysis of how parent caregivers are affected by their child's AD, and how certain parent caregiver characteristics and perceptions affect the family impact of this condition. Parent caregivers of children with AD (n = 49) were administered a survey to collect detailed data on socioeconomic status, health perceptions, and caregiving issues. Family impact of the child's AD was measured using a modified AD Family Impact Scale. Multiple regression analyses revealed that three major factors associated with the parent caregiver were correlated with large increases in the family impact scores: 1) perception that the child's condition is severe (13%, p < 0.01), 2) high use of nonmedical services for child's condition (21%, p < 0.01), and 3) financial concern about the child's condition (18%, p < 0.01). These preliminary data indicate distinct characteristics of the parent caregiver that are associated with higher family impact of AD in children. These parent caregiver factors may be important in identifying suitable audiences and areas for education for optimal management of children's AD.
Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus in Childhood
Authors: Amato Lauretta , Coronella Giordana , Berti Samantha , Moretti Silvia , Fabbri Paolo
Published: March 2003

Abstract: We report a 7‐year‐old girl who presented with erythematous‐infiltrated, figurate, well‐defined lesions over sun‐exposed skin and antinuclear and Ro/SSA antibodies. Lupus band test revealed granular IgM and microgranular C3 deposits at the dermoepidermal junction. Histopathologic examination of lesional skin showed orthohyperkeratosis, epidermal atrophy, widespread hydropic degeneration of the epidermal basal cell layer, and a dermal perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltrate. The clinical, immunopathologic, and histopathologic findings were consistent with the diagnosis of annular‐polycyclic variant of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE). Treatment with hydroxychloroquine cleared the cutaneous lesions. We report this patient because SCLE is extremely rare in childhood, and discuss the two previous cases reported in the literature.
Central Nervous System Involvement in Neonatal Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Prendiville Julie S. , Cabral David A. , Poskitt Kenneth J. , Au Sheila , Sargent Michael A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Computerized tomography (CT) of the brain was performed in 10 of 11 consecutive infants with neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) (five boys and six girls). Ten of the 11 infants had brain neurosonography. Nine of 10 infants had abnormal CT scans. There was diffuse, markedly reduced attenuation of the cerebral white matter in four infants studied in the first week of life, and also in an infant 5 weeks of age. Patchy reduced subcortical white matter attenuation was observed in another 5‐week‐old infant. Basal ganglia calcifications were present in two infants at 2 months of age, one of whom also had mild ventriculomegaly. A patient with macrocephaly studied at 4 months of age had enlarged ventricles and subarachnoid spaces consistent with benign macrocephaly of infancy. Cerebral ultrasound examination was abnormal in all five infants studied in the first week of life and in one infant at 2 months of age. Findings included subependymal cysts (4), echogenic white matter (3), and echogenic lenticulostriate vessels (3). Apart from one case of macrocephaly, there was no clinical evidence of neurologic disease and the subsequent development of these infants has been normal. Subclinical central nervous system (CNS) disease in NLE is likely to be a transient phenomenon that resolves as maternal antibodies are cleared from the infant's circulation. It is important to be aware of these neuroimaging abnormalities to avoid misdiagnosis of congenital viral infection in a newborn with multisystem NLE. The potential for neurologic sequelae is uncertain.
Apheresis and Selective Adsorption Plus Immunoglobulin Treatment in Guillain‐Barré Syndrome
Authors: Haupt Walter F. , Birkmann Christiane , van der Ven Christian , Pawlik Gunter
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Plasma exchange (PE) and administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (i.v. IgG) are established treatments for Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS). Combination treatment with elimination of postulated pathogenetic factors by PE or selective adsorption (SA) treatment and subsequent immunomodulation by intravenous IgG may provide a more effective treatment. In a single‐center randomized study, 45 patients with acute GBS were prospectively examined using a clinical score. We treated 11 patients by PE, 13 with SA using a tryptophan‐linked polyvinyl alcohol gel adsorbent, and 21 with SA followed by intravenous IgG. The patients treated sequentially by selective adsorption and intravenous IgG improved significantly better than the patients who received plasma treatment only. The results suggest that combination treatment of GBS may be superior to plasma treatment alone.
Apheresis Treatment in Lambert‐Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome
Authors: Motomura Masakatsu , Hamasaki Shinji , Nakane Shunya , Fukuda Taku , Nakao Yoko K.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune disorder of peripheral cholinergic transmission in which autoantibodies decrease the presynaptic release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction and autonomic system. Recent results suggest that the antibodies to P/Q‐type calcium channels are the principal pathogenic factors in LEMS. Here, we present our experience with cases of LEMS who are noncarcinomatous. We studied the efficacy of plasmapheresis, analyzing the clinical score, electrophysiological finding, and the titer of anti‐P/Q‐type voltage‐gated calcium channel (P/Q‐VGCC) antibody. The first case, a 72‐year‐old female presenting with leg weakness, was treated by plasma exchange (PE). However, clinical improvement was transient; intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy was followed by additional PE. She had a clinical and electromyologic improvement, and her P/Q‐VGCC antibody titers decreased. Her clinical status and CMAP amplitude correlated closely with the anti‐P/Q‐VGCC antibody titers. The second case, a 73‐year‐old male presenting with leg weakness, was treated by PE and double‐filtration plasmapheresis. The P/Q‐VGCC antibody titres decreased immediately after these aphereses, but recovered to the pretreatment levels 1 week after them. After the immunosuppressive drugs prednisolone and azathioprine were started, his clinical symptoms improved. His antibody titers decreased gradually after immunosuppressive therapy. It is speculated that no sufficient efficacious improvement could be obtained by apheresis alone because of a high rate of P/Q‐VGCC antibody production. Considering our experiences and other literature, we discuss the indication of apheresis treatment of LEMS.
Effect of Heparin‐Induced Extracorporeal Low‐Density Lipoprotein Precipitation (HELP) Apheresis on Hepatitis C Plasma Virus Load
Authors: Schettler V. , Monazahian M. , Wieland E. , Thomssen R. , Müller G.A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Association of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) with apolipoprotein B containing lipoproteins has been suggested, and this led to the concept that the low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor may also serve as a candidate receptor for HCV uptake into the liver. We have investigated whether heparin‐induced extracorporeal LDL precipitation (HELP) LDL apheresis treatment reduces HCV plasma load in 6 patients, all infected for more than 4 years with HCV and resistant against established anti‐HCV therapy. HELP apheresis treatment caused an HCV‐RNA decrease of 77.3% in mean. This decline was not correlated with LDL‐cholesterol reduction. HCV‐RNA was retained on the HELP filter as shown for 1 patient. The effect of RNA lowering was only transient due to the high turnover of HCV. However, HELP apheresis may open a window of opportunity for an immune‐modulating and antiviral therapy in the interval between two apheresis procedures in patients with high virus load.
Changes of Cytokines in Direct Endotoxin Adsorption Treatment on Postoperative Multiple Organ Failure
Authors: Matsuno Naoto , Ikeda Toshiaki , Ikeda Kazumi , Hama Koichiro , Iwamoto Hitoshi , Uchiyama Masami , Kozaki Koichi , Narumi Yasumasa , Kikuchi Kenji , Degawa Hisakazu , Nagao Takeshi
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Multiple organ failure (MOF) is a serious condition that involves simultaneous or consecutive functional failure of several important organs. Furthermore, sepsis is known to play an important role in the occurrence of MOF. Hemoadsorption therapy with the endotoxin adsorption column containing polymyxin B immobilized fibers by direct hemoperfusion (PMX‐DHP) is reportedly effective in the treatment of septic shock. This study examined the changes induced on cytokines upon PMX‐DHP treatment in 25 patients who underwent emergency abdominal surgery and were immediately started on a postoperative regimen of continuous hemodiafiltration (CHDF) and PMX‐DHP. Postoperative MOF was observed in these patients with a mean APACHE II SCORE of 25.5. Eighty percent of patients survived for more than 1 month. We were able to reduce the necessary dose of dopamine in 85.7% of patients because hemodynamic stability improved after administration of PMX‐DHP. Interleukin 6 blood levels did not change significantly before or after PMX‐DHP treatment in either the surviving or nonsurviving patients. Blood interleukin 1 receptor antagonist levels decreased in both groups. Intercellular adhesion molecular‐1, NOx, and thrombomodulin did not change significantly during the course of treatment in either group. Decreased blood levels of PAI‐1 levels were found in the surviving patients whereas increased levels of PAI‐1 were found in the nonsurviving patients. In conclusion, PMX‐DHP treatment may be limited clinically in its ability to remove inflammatory cytokines and humoral mediators. However, PMX‐DHP treatment is useful for hemodynamic stabilization, which prevents development of MOF.
Double Filtration Plasmapheresis in Critical Care
Authors: Mineshima Michio , Akiba Takashi
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Many kinds of technologies have been introduced and successfully developed for therapeutic apheresis. Furthermore, several kinds of these technologies have also been applied in critical care. Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP), however, is rarely applied in this field in comparison with other treatments such as continuous hemofiltration, continuous hemodiafiltration, single filtration plasmapheresis, and plasma adsorption therapies. In this paper, the characteristics of the DFPP treatments for critical care are summarized. During the DFPP treatments, the patient's blood volume (BV) often decreases with time due to albumin loss induced by inadequate albumin infusion in a supplementation fluid. We examined the change of BV by a continuous hematocrit monitor, Crit‐Line, during an in vivo study for 9 patients. As a result, albumin loss fairly occurred in DFPP treatments. The decrease of patient BV was induced by an oncotic pressure drop due to albumin loss and often resulted in a blood pressure drop. This is a serious problem for DFPP in critical care. We should avoid inadequate albumin infusion if the patient is suffering from these adverse effects. In order to determine the optimal concentration CS and volume VS values of a supplemented albumin solution, we introduced a variable blood volume model for albumin transport in DFPP.
Apheresis of Immune Diseases and Apheresis Using Immunological Specificity
Authors: Yagihashi A. , Kikuchi K.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: It has been clearly shown that autoimmune diseases can be treated by apheresis by eliminating immune complexes, however, the effects of therapeutic apheresis are not limited to immune disorders. Almost all diseases are associated with immune systems. Immune systems can be regulated by advanced techniques of apheresis, including immunoadsorption and immunocytapheresis, removing immune effector molecules and various immune‐associated cells selectively. Therefore, apheresis can be used as a nondrug treatment for many diseases. In addition, disease‐associated proteins that cause disease or are produced in the course of diseases and accumulate in the body could be eliminated selectively by apheresis using the extremely powerful ability of the immune system to recognize polypeptide structures specifically and distinguish miniscale differences among molecules. In this article, we discuss the current status of treatment of immune diseases by apheresis and possible treatment approach of a variety of diseases by apheresis based on immune reactions.
Bioclimatic Analysis to Enhance Reintroduction Biology of the Endangered Helmeted Honeyeater (Lichenostomus melanops cassidix) in Southeastern Australia
Authors: Pearce Jennie , Lindenmayer David
Published: March 2003

Reintroduction programs are a high‐risk conservation strategy for restoring populations of endangered species. The success of these programs often depends on the ability to identify suitable habitat within the species’ former range. Bioclimatic analysis offers an empirical, explicit, robust, and repeatable method to analyze large areas rapidly using a small number of locality records, and in turn predicting (and/or reconstructing) its potential distribution limits. This approach therefore can estimate the broad limits of the distribution of a taxon, using data that may be inadequate for standard forms of statistical analysis. We illustrate the potential value of bioclimatic modeling for reintroduction biology using a case study of the highly endangered Helmeted Honeyeater (Lichenostomus melanops cassidix) from Victoria, southeastern Australia. The results of our analyses assisted us to both predict the former range limits of the Helmeted Honeyeater and determine the broad limits of those areas that may contain potentially suitable sites for future reintroduction programs for the subspecies. The analysis predicted that the range of the Helmeted Honeyeater extends from the Yarra River district east of Melbourne, south to the Western Port Bay and east as far as the Morwell area of Victoria. The climatic characteristics of habitat occupied by the extant population of the Helmeted Honeyeater were found to be unique within its predicted range. We recommend that reintroduction efforts therefore be concentrated within this small area, as has occurred to date.
Soil Characteristics of Rehabilitating and Unmined Coastal Dunes at Richards Bay, KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Van Aarde A‐M. Smit A. S. Claassens R. J.
Published: March 2003

The postmining rehabilitation of coastal sand dunes north of Richards Bay (28°43′S, 32°12′E), South Africa, is resulting in the development of a series of known‐aged stands of vegetation dominated byAcacia karroo(sweet thorn). Other broad‐leaved species are establishing themselves in rehabilitating areas more than 12 years of age. Soils from rehabilitating stands 3–5, 9–12, 13–15, and 16–18 years of age, from two disturbed, unmined stands 30 and 58 years of age, and from a mature unmined stand were examined to assess age‐related trends in selected soil properties. Individually, these stands represent a series of different developmental stages of a coastal dune successional sere. Soil organic material, percentage organic carbon and concentrations of sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and nitrogen increased with an increase in habitat regeneration age. Concentrations of most of these elements were lower than those recorded on the 58‐year‐old unmined and mature unmined stands. Multivariate analyses suggest, however, that the similarity of these values for rehabilitating stands to those for the unmined stands increased with an increase in regeneration age. The growth response ofRaphanus sativus(radish) plants, based on mass attained under experimental growing conditions in soil collected from these stands, suggests an increase in soil fertility with an increase in regeneration age.
Tracking Recovery Patterns in Acidified Lakes: A Paleolimnological Perspective
Authors: Smol John P. , Cumming Brian F. , Dixit Aruna S. , Dixit Sushil S.
Published: March 2003

Long‐term data are often lacking to effectively assess patterns of lake acidification and recovery. Fortunately, paleolimnological techniques can be used to infer past changes in lakewater acidity and related variables by means of biological indicators, such as diatom valves and chrysophyte scales, preserved in 210Pb‐dated sediment cores. We summarize paleolimnological data that we have gathered from 36 Sudbury (Ontario) and 20 Adirondack Park (New York) lakes to estimate the magnitude of lake acidification and any subsequent recovery in these lake systems. In both regions, many lakes were shown to have acidified considerably, some over two pH units, since the 1850s. Although some recovery was noted in both lake regions, Sudbury lakes generally showed larger increases in inferred lakewater pH with recent declines in sulfur emissions. Possible explanations of these differences include the greater decrease in sulfate deposition in the Sudbury area, as well as generally longer residence times of lakes in Sudbury, perhaps allowing for more in‐lake alkalinity generation. In addition, Sudbury lakes generally had higher pre‐industrial pH levels, suggesting that lakes with higher natural buffering capacities are more likely to recover more quickly with declines in deposition, even if they had been acidified to a great extent.
Biological Recover y from Lake Acidification: Zooplankton Communities as a Model of Patterns and Processes
Authors: Keller W. , Yan N. D.
Published: March 2003

Knowledge of the recovery of aquatic communities from lake acidification is limited. Data from studies of crustacean zooplankton communities, however, do reveal some of the major mechanisms important in the biological recovery process. Important influences on recovery include factors related to habitat quality and the ability of organisms to colonize. During recovery, existing species and colonists from internal and external sources interact to form a new community. The relative roles of internal and external influences remain poorly understood. Four general community types can be identified as possible outcomes of the recovery process: the original community, a normal alternate community, a community limited by dispersal, and a community limited by biological resistance. Empirical data indicate that, given suitable water quality, about a decade is sufficient to permit substantial recovery of zooplankton communities if there are no severe physical or biological barriers to restructuring.
Seed Rain in High‐Altitude Restoration Plots in Switzerland
Authors: Urbanska Krystyna M. , Fattorini Marzio
Published: March 2003

Seed rain was studied in restoration plots installed in 1985 and 1987, respectively, on an alpine downhill ski run at circa 2,500 m above sea level. The study was initiated in late autumn 1996 and completed in autumn 1998; it included temporal and spatial variation in density per m2, as well as alpha diversity (species richness), and species composition of the seed rain versus that of the resident vegetation. This is the first report on post‐restoration monitoring of seed rain above the timberline. Seed rain density and alpha diversity varied seasonally, with the first peak occurring immediately after spring snowmelt and the second in early autumn. The density of seed rain varied between plots and years (1,528–1,778 seeds per m2 in one plot [RPF] versus 1,096–3,557 seeds per m2 in another plot [RPG]). Total species number per plot was nearly twice as high in RPF as in RPG in both study years. Seed rain totaled 18 species; all but one represented either transplants introduced in restoration or colonizers established in the plots soon after restoration. Distribution of species in seed rain was largely asymmetric and only a few species provided substantial contributions. Composition of species and their respective contribution to seed rain differed between plots and was clearly influenced by performance of some species used in restoration as transplants; together they provided as much as 51% of the total seed rain. The results of the study demonstrate that restoration enhanced increase of species richness as well as seed rain in situ.
Revegetation of Pb/Zn Mine Tailings, Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Ye Z. H. , Wong J. W. C. , Wong M. H. , Baker A. J. M. , Shu W. S. , Lan C. Y.
Published: March 2003

The Lechang lead/zinc mine is located in the north part of Guangdong Province, southern China. The tailings residue from the extraction of lead/zinc ores was permanently stored in tailings ponds, which required revegetation to reduce the environmental impact. A field study was, therefore, conducted to evaluate the effects of different ameliorants, including: (1) pig manure (PM); (2) mushroom compost (MC); (3) burnt coal residue (BC); (4) fly ash (FA); and (5) surface soil on the growth ofAgropyron elongatum(tall wheat grass),Cynodon dactylon(Bermuda grass),Lolium multiflorum(Italian ryegrass),and Trifolium repens(clover) in the tailings residue. The results from the core profiles indicated that adding FA (10 cm) or BC (15 cm) as a barrier layer between the cover soil and the tailings could increase pH, compared to the treatment with soil only.C. dactylongrew well and had a high cover (90–100%) in all the treatment plots except the control plots without any amendment.A. elongatumandL. multiflorumhad a higher cover when grown in plots covered with a barrier layer using FA or BC (both with surface soil), than those grown in plots covered with surface soil only. Treatment plots receiving a thicker soil cover (30 cm) had a better dry weight yield than those with a thinner soil cover (15 cm), regardless of the barrier layer. The results from this study indicate that the use of either 15 cm BC or 10 cm FA as a barrier layer with surface soil, or the use of 38 tonnes PM/ha and 6 cm MC, were effective for the revegetation of Pb/Zn mine tailings.C. dactylonwas the best species among the four species used for revegetation.

Key words: reclamation, Pb/Zn mine tailings, burnt coal, mushroom compost, fly ash, Bermuda grass, Italian ryegrass, clover.
Mangrove Restoration: Do We Know Enough?
Authors: Ellison Aaron M.
Published: March 2003

Mangrove restoration projects have been attempted, with mixed results, throughout the world. In this paper, I first examine goals of existing mangrove restoration projects and determine whether these goals are clear and adequate, and whether or not they account for the full range of biological diversity and ecological processes of mangrove ecosystems. Many restored mangrove forests resemble forest plantations rather than truly integrated ecosystems, but mangrove plantations can be a first step toward mangrove rehabilitation. Mangrove restoration projects that involve associated aquaculture or mariculture operations tend to be more likely to approximate the biological diversity and ecological processes of undisturbed mangrove ecosystems than are projects that focus only on the trees. These integrated restoration projects also provide a higher economic return than do silvicultural projects alone. Second, I briefly assess whether existing ecological data are sufficient to undergird successful restoration of mangal and define criteria for determining whether or not a mangrove ecosystem has been restored successfully. These criteria include characteristics of vegetation (forest) structure, levels of primary production, composition of associated animal communities, and hydrology. Finally, I suggest ways to improve mangrove restoration projects and identify key research needs required to support these efforts. Ecological theories derived from other wetland and upland systems rarely have been applied to either “basic” or “applied” mangrove forest studies, to the detriment of restoration projects, whereas lessons from restoration of the relatively species‐poor mangrove ecosystems could be beneficially applied to restoration projects in other contexts. An international database of mangrove restoration projects would reduce the likelihood that unsuccessful restoration projects would be repeated elsewhere. Clear criteria for evaluating success, greater accessibility of information by managers in the developing world, intensified international cooperation, and application of relevant ecological theories will improve the success rate of mangrove restoration projects.
Vegetation Response to Lime and Manure Compost Amendments on Acid Lead/Zinc Mine Tailings: A Greenhouse Study
Authors: Ye Z. H. , Wong J. W. C. , Wong M. H.
Published: March 2003

Land disturbed by mining in China is a serious problem and lead/zinc (Pb/Zn) mine tailings constitute the majority of the metal mine tailings produced in Guangdaong Province, China. A greenhouse study was therefore conducted to evaluate the effects of lime (40, 80, 120, and 160 t/ha) and manure compost (50 and 100 t/ha) amendment on the revegetation of the Pb/Zn mine tailings usingCynodon dactylon(Bermuda grass) andAgropyron elongatum(tall wheatgrass). The results showed that a combination of lime and manure compost amendment together with deionized water leachating was able to increase pH, reduce electrical conductivity and diethylenetraminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)‐extractable concentrations of Zn and Pb in tailings. Using80 t/ha lime amendment with the supplement of fertilizer or manure compost was able to effectively improve germination of bothC. dactylonandA. elongatum.The highest dry weight yields were obtained in tailings receiving80 t lime/ha and 100 t manure compost/ha for both plant species. Plant tissue analysis showed that lime amendment at 120–160 t/ha reduced Zn accumulation in both shoot and root ofC. dactylon.However, this trend was not observed for Pb.
Tropical Montane Forest Restoration in Costa Rica: Overcoming Barriers to Dispersal and Establishment
Authors: Holl Karen D. , Loik Michael E. , Lin Eleanor H. V. , Samuels Ivan A.
Published: March 2003

Tropical forests are being cleared at an alarming rate although our understanding of their ecology is limited. It is therefore essential to design restoration experiments that both further our basic knowledge of tropical ecology and inform management strategies to facilitate recovery of these ecosystems. Here we synthesize the results of research on tropical montane forest recovery in abandoned pasture in Costa Rica to address the following questions: (1) What factors limit tropical forest recovery in abandoned pasture? and (2) How can we use this information to design strategies to facilitate ecosystem recovery? Our results indicate that a number of factors impede tropical forest recovery in abandoned pasture land. The most important barriers are lack of dispersal of forest seeds and seedling competition with pasture grasses. High seed predation, low seed germination, lack of nutrients, high light intensity, and rabbit herbivory also affect recovery. Successful strategies to facilitate recovery in abandoned pastures must simultaneously overcome numerous obstacles. Our research shows that establishment of woody species, either native tree seedlings or early‐successional shrubs, can be successful in facilitating recovery, by enhancing seed dispersal and shading out pasture grasses. On the contrary, bird perching structures alone are not an effective strategy, because they only serve to enhance seed dispersal but do not reduce grass cover. Remnant pasture trees can serve as foci of natural recovery and may enhance growth of planted seedlings. Our results highlight the importance of: (1) understanding the basic biology of an ecosystem to design effective restoration strategies; (2) comparing results across a range of sites to determine which restoration strategies are most generally useful; and (3) considering where best to allocate efforts in large‐scale restoration projects.
Restoration of Bighorn Sheep Metapopulations in and Near Western National Parks
Authors: Singer Francis J. , Bleich Vernon C. , Gudorf Michelle A.
Published: March 2003

Bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) once were ubiquitous in large areas, including lands now contained in the national parks of the Intermountain and Colorado Plateau regions of the United States. Due to catastrophic declines in the late 1800s and early 1900s, most extant populations now occur as small, isolated groups with a highly fragmented distribution. Three different subspecies of bighorn sheep were extirpated from 14 of 18 areas that are now managed by the National Park Service. We describe an eight‐year plan to restore bighorn sheep to currently suitable historic habitats in the national parks within a six‐state intermountain region of the western United States, 1991–1998. A seven‐point program was recommended for each park unit that included: (1) survey the existing populations; (2) conduct a GIS‐based habitat assessment to identify suitable habitat; (3) convene scientific advisory panels to review results of habitat assessment; (4) convene interagency panels to discuss metapopulation management and to plan the restoration(s); (5) draft interagency restoration and management plans; (6) conduct translocation(s); and (7) monitor the populations. We evaluated 38,781 km2of area; 32% (12,329 km2) was potential habitat for bighorn sheep. The scientific advisory panels and the GIS modeling recommended bighorn restoration on 73 sites within these areas. By 1996, 36 of these sites (2,647 km2or 22% of the entire suitable area) were inhabited by bighorn sheep. By 1999, the translocated animals increased 25%, and restoration efforts will continue in many of the remaining sites.
Common Reed Phragmites australis: Control and Effects Upon Biodiversity in Freshwater Nontidal Wetlands
Authors: Ailstock M. Stephen , Norman C. Michael , Bushmann Paul J.
Published: March 2003

Phragmites australis (common reed) has expanded in many wetland habitats. Its ability to exclude other plant species has led to both control and eradication programs. This study examined two control methods—herbicide application or a herbicide‐burning combination—for their efficacy and ability to restore plant biodiversity in non‐tidal wetlands. Two Phragmites‐dominated sites received the herbicide glyphosate. One of these sites was burned following herbicide application. Plant and soil macroinvertebrate abundance and diversity were evaluated pre‐treatment and every year for four years post‐treatment using belt transects. The growth of Phragmites propagules—seeds, rhizomes, and rooted shoots—was examined in the greenhouse and under bare, burned, or vegetated soil conditions. Both control programs greatly reduced Phragmites abundance and increased plant biodiversity. Plant re‐growth was quicker on the herbicide‐burn site, with presumably a more rapid return to wetland function. Re‐growth at both sites depended upon a pre‐existing, diverse soil seed bank. There were no directed changes in soil macroinvertebrate abundance or diversity and they appeared unaffected by changes in the plant community. Phragmites seeds survived only on bare soils, while buried rhizomes survived under all soil conditions. This suggests natural seeding of disturbed soils and inadvertent human planting of rhizomes as likely avenues for Phragmites colonization. Herbicide control, with or without burning, can reduce Phragmites abundance and increase plant biodiversity temporarily. These changes do not necessarily lead to a more diverse animal community. Moreover, unless Phragmites is eradicated and further human disturbance is prohibited, it will likely eventually re‐establish dominance.
Shrubland Restoration Following Woody Alien Invasion and Mining: Effects of Topsoil Depth, Seed Source, and Fertilizer Addition
Authors: Holmes Patricia M.
Published: March 2003

Invasion by woody alien plants, construction, and mining operations are among the major disturbances degrading vegetation in the Cape Floristic Kingdom, South Africa. The aim of this study was to assess whether native fynbos shrubland vegetation could be restored following dense alien invasion and disturbance by mining. An area supporting dense alien trees was cleared and topsoil was stripped and stockpiled to simulate mining disturbance. A field trial investigated the effects of topsoil depth, seed mix application, and fertilizer on native species recruitment and vegetation development over a three‐year period. Soil‐stored seed banks contributed 60% of the species recruited, indicating that areas invaded for three decades have good restoration potential. The addition of a fynbos seed mix, which included serotinous overstory species, improved both the richness and structural composition of the vegetation. Most species sown in untopsoiled plots established, but survival and growth was low compared to topsoil plots. Poor growth in combination with a lack of soil seed bank species, indicate that restoring a diverse and functional cover of indigenous vegetation on subsoil is not possible in the short‐term. Soil amelioration is required to improve rooting conditions and initiate ecosystem processes. Shallow and deep topsoil treatments yielded high plant density, richness, and projected canopy cover, but canopy cover was higher in deep topsoil plots throughout the trial. Fertilizer addition increased canopy cover in untopsoiled and shallow topsoil plots via an increase in alien annual species. Fertilizer addition ultimately may lead to increased native vegetation cover in untopsoiled areas, but as it increased proteoid mortality on deep topsoil plots, it is not recommended for sites where topsoil is available. A species‐rich and structurally representative fynbos community may be restored on topsoiled areas provided that the native disturbance regime is simulated and seeds of major structural guilds not present in the soil seed bank are included in the seed mix.
Restoration Ecology: Repairing the Earth's Ecosystems in the New Millennium
Authors: Hobbs R. J. , Harris J. A.
Published: March 2003

The extent of human‐induced change and damage to Earth's ecosystems renders ecosystem repair an essential part of our future survival strategy, and this demands that restoration ecology provide effective conceptual and practical tools for this task. We argue that restoration ecology has to be an integral component of land management in today's world, and to be broadly applicable, has to have a clearly articulated conceptual basis. This needs to recognize that most ecosystems are dynamic and hence restoration goals cannot be based on static attributes. Setting clear and achievable goals is essential, and these should focus on the desired characteristics for the system in the future, rather than in relation to what these were in the past. Goal setting requires that there is a clear understanding of the restoration options available (and the relative costs of different options). The concept of restoration thresholds suggests that options are determined by the current state of the system in relation to biotic and abiotic thresholds. A further important task is the development of effective and easily measured success criteria. Many parameters could be considered for inclusion in restoration success criteria, but these are often ambiguous or hard to measure. Success criteria need to relate clearly back to specific restoration goals. If restoration ecology is to be successfully practiced as part of humanity's response to continued ecosystem change and degradation, restoration ecologists need to rise to the challenges of meshing science, practice and policy. Restoration ecology is likely to be one of the most important fields of the coming century.
Modeling Ecological Restoration Effects on Ponderosa Pine Forest Structure
Authors: Covington W. Wallace , Fulé Peter Z. , Hart Stephen C. , Weaver Robert P.
Published: March 2003

FIRESUM, an ecological process model incorporating surface fire disturbance, was modified for use in southwestern ponderosa pine ecosystems. The model was used to determine changes in forest structure over time and then applied to simulate changes in aboveground biomass and nitrogen storage since exclusion of the natural frequent fire regime in an unharvested Arizona forest. Dendroecological reconstruction of forest structure in 1876, prior to Euro‐American settlement, was used to initialize the model; projections were validated with forest measurements in 1992. Biomass allocations shifted from herbaceous plants to trees, and nitrogen was increasingly retained in living and dead tree biomass over the 116‐year period (1876–1992). Forest conditions in 1992 were substantially degraded compared to reference presettlement conditions: old‐growth trees were dying at accelerated rates, herbaceous production was reduced nearly 90%, and the entire stand was highly susceptible to high‐intensity wildfire. Following an experiment initiated in 1993 to test ecological restoration treatments, future changes were modeled for the next century. Future forest structure remained within the natural presettlement range of variability under the full restoration treatment, in which forest biomass structure was thinned to emulate presettlement conditions and repeated low‐intensity fire was reintroduced. Simulation of the control treatment indicated continuation of exceptionally high tree density, probably culminating in stand‐replacing ecosystem change through high‐intensity wildfire or tree mortality from pathogens. Intermediate results were observed in the partial restoration treatment (tree thinning only); the open forest structure and high herbaceous productivity found immediately after treatment were gradually degraded as dense tree cover reestablished in the absence of fire. Modeling results support comprehensive restorative management as a long‐term approach to conservation of key indigenous ecosystem characteristics.
Strategies for Gardening Denuded Coral Reef Areas: The Applicability of Using Different Types of Coral Material for Reef Restoration
Authors: Epstein N. , Bak R. P. M. , Rinkevich B.
Published: March 2003

Recreational and other human activities degrade coral reefs worldwide to a point where efficient restoration techniques are needed. Here we tested several strategies for gardening denuded reefs. The gardening concept consists of in situ or ex situ mariculture of coral recruits, followed by their transplantation into degraded reef sites. In situ nurseries were established in Eilat's (Northern Red Sea) shallow waters, sheltering three types of coral materials taken from the branching species Stylophora pistillata (small colonies, branch fragments, and spat) that were monitored for up to two years. Pruning more than 10% of donor colonies' branches increased mortality, and surviving colonies displayed reduced reproductive activity. Maricultured isolated branches, however, exceeded donor colony life span and reproductive activity and added 0.5–45% skeletal mass per year. Forty‐four percent of the small colonies survived after 1.5‐year mariculture, revealing average yearly growth of 75 ± 32%. Three months ex situ maintenance of coral spat (sexual recruits) prior to the in situ nursery phase increased survivorship. Within the next 1.5 years, they developed into colonies of 3–4 cm diameter. Nursery periods of 2 years, 4–5 years, and more than> 5 years have been estimated for small colonies, spat, and isolated branches, respectively. These and other results, including the possible use of nubbins (minute fragments the size of a single or few polyps), are discussed, revealing benefits and drawbacks for each material. In situ coral mariculture is an improved practice to the common but potentially harmful protocol of direct coral transplantation. It is suggested that reef gardening may be used as a key management tool in conservation and restoration of denuded reef areas. The gardening concept may be applicable for coral reefs worldwide through site‐specific considerations and the use of different local coral species.