bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sampling Strategies for Efficient Estimation of Tree Foliage Biomass
Authors: Temesgen Hailemariam , Monleon Vicente , Weiskittel Aaron , Wilson Duncan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Conifer crowns can be highly variable both within and between trees, particularly with respect to foliage biomass and leaf area. A variety of sampling schemes have been used to estimate biomass and leaf area at the individual tree and stand scales. Rarely has the effectiveness of these sampling schemes been compared across stands or even across species. In addition, sample size estimates for achieving a certain level of precision have rarely been given. This simulation study used extensive branch and tree foliage biomass data sets for Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) and ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Dougl ex. Laws.) to compare alternative sampling schemes and sample sizes. The use of auxiliary information at the estimation phase resulted in a more cost-efficient sampling scheme than when auxiliary information was used at the design phase. However, using auxiliary information at the design phase resulted in more precise estimates than using the same at the estimation phase for the same sample size. For both species, systematic sampling with ratio estimation provided the most efficient estimate of individual tree foliage biomass. In Douglas-fir, stratifying by branch type (i.e., whorl versus interwhorl) resulted in a marginal gain in precision. For Douglas-fir, on average, root mean square error decreased by 43.1% when sample size increased from 6 to 12 branches per tree, with a further decrease of 24.3% when sample size increased from 12 to 18 branches per tree. For ponderosa pine, on average, the root mean square error decreased by 44.4 and 23.9% when the sample size was increased from 6 to 12 and from 12 to 18 branches per tree, respectively. Additional work is needed to understand the appropriate sampling techniques for older conifer tree crowns and sampling multileader deciduous crowns.
Effects of Initial Spacing on Height Development of Loblolly Pine
Authors: Antón-Fernández Clara , Burkhart Harold E. , Strub Mike , Amateis Ralph L. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The relationship between dominant height and age is the base of site index, the most widely used measure of site quality. In applying the site index concept, one typically assumes that height development is not affected by stand density or thinning treatment. This assumption has been challenged by recent studies on loblolly pine. A detailed data set with initial densities ranging from 6,730 to 750 trees/ha and covering ages 1 through 25 after plantation establishment was used to study and model the effect of initial spacing on height development of loblolly pine. Dominant height was found to be dependent on initial spacing. Height-age models are proposed that take into account the effect of spacing on average and dominant height. The differences among plantation densities are evident from age 6 and are consistent to the end of the 25-year period of study. Previous studies in other conifers have reported an early advantage in terms of height growth in denser stands that tend to disappear with age, producing a crossover of the growth trajectories. No evidence of this crossover effect in height was found.
Fuel Complex Alterations Associated with Spruce Beetle-Induced Tree Mortality in Intermountain Spruce/Fir Forests
Authors: Jorgensen Carl Arik , Jenkins Michael James 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Tree mortality caused during extensive outbreaks of spruce beetle (Dendroctonus rufipennis Kirby [Coleoptera: Curculionidae]) has been assumed to increase hazardous fuel loads and consequently influence fire behavior, occurrence, and effects. However, little research has been done to quantify or qualify how spruce beetle-induced tree mortality may alter fuel complexes during the course of an outbreak. The objective of our research was to determine how fuel complexes differ between stands with endemic populations of spruce beetle, stands experiencing current outbreaks, and stands with postoutbreak spruce beetle-induced tree mortality. We measured ground, surface, and aerial fuels in spruce–fir stands assigned into one of three spruce beetle condition classes: endemic, epidemic, or postepidemic. These stands were located on the Manti-LaSal and Fishlake National Forests in southcentral and southern Utah. We used analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare mean differences in stand attributes and fuel variables between the three spruce beetle condition classes. The mean amount of down woody surface fuel (tonnes/ha) in the 100-hour size class in epidemic stands was significantly greater than that in endemic stands. Mean litter depth and amount was significantly greater in epidemic stands than in endemic and postepidemic stands. A significant increase for most estimates of live and dead herbaceous material was detected in epidemic stands and postepidemic stands compared with that in stands not affected by the spruce beetle. Likewise, significant increases in live shrub material were detected in postepidemic stands. Spruce–fir stands also had significantly less live aerial fuels after outbreaks than endemic stands.
Evaluating Tree Species Spatial Diversity Based on Neighborhood Relationships
Authors: Hui Gangying , Zhao Xiuhai , Zhao Zhonghua , von Gadow Klaus 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This contribution presents a method for describing forest tree species diversity based on the analysis of tree neighborhoods. The proposed measure of tree species spatial diversity (TSS) is compared with four commonly used diversity indices using empirical and simulated data. The empirical dataset includes field observations with known tree coordinates from different forest types in China, Mongolia, Mexico, Germany, Myanmar, and South Africa. The simulated set uses 12 specifically designed patterns of spatial species mingling. The results show that the value of the TSS criterion increases with increasing tree species richness. In addition, TSS is sensitive to rare species and to variations in community structure, including species spatial isolation and spatial mingling. For these reasons, the TSS criterion is much more effective for measuring tree species diversity than the commonly used indices. It allows detailed interpretation of forest spatial diversity and of forest structural modifications after selective thinnings in multispecies forests. A particular advantage of the TSS index is the fact that its assessment, which is based on neighborhood relations, can be easily integrated in routine forest management surveys at practically no additional cost.
Modeling Crown Structure from LiDAR Data with Statistical Distributions
Authors: Cao Quang V. , Dean Thomas J. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of three statistical distributions to characterize the vertical distribution of foliage mass in canopies of even-aged loblolly pine stands, based on airborne-scanning light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data. The functions were the Weibull and SB distributions and a mixture of the lognormal and Weibull distributions. Results indicated that the mixture distribution fit the LiDAR data better than the Weibull and SB distributions, according to three goodness-of-fit statistics. By switching from the lognormal for data near the tree top to the Weibull for data near the base of the crown, the mixture distribution seemed to better resemble the shape of the distribution of LiDAR returns than the Weibull alone. The mixture distribution was particularly effective for plots in which distributions of the returns were too peaked for either the Weibull or SB.
Dynamic Treatment Units in Eucalyptus Plantation
Authors: Packalén Petteri , Heinonen Tero , Pukkala Timo , Vauhkonen Jari , Maltamo Matti 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to test airborne laser scanning-based forest inventory and the use of dynamic treatment units in eucalyptus plantations. Dynamic treatment units are formed by spatial optimization, which aggregates small inventory units. The hypothesis is that the use of dynamic treatment units increases yield and improves the efficiency of forest use. Forest inventory based on airborne laser scanning provides data for small units, which must be aggregated into feasible treatment units. The study area was a Eucalyptus pulpwood plantation in Brazil. Mixed-effects models were constructed for the basal area and dominant height using an area-based method. The plot-level estimates of growing stock characteristics were more accurate than those obtained for the stand level in many previous studies. The study area was divided into hexagons of 300 m2 for which the growing stock characteristics were estimated. A growth simulator was used to produce treatment schedules for the hexagons by varying the rotation length. The production potential of the planning area was examined by maximizing the growing stock volume at the end of the planning period with varying degrees of cutting area aggregation, with an even-flow cutting target for every 1-year period. The use of dynamic treatment units always increased the total volume production, i.e., the sum of harvested and ending volume. Cutting areas formed by spatial optimization often deviated from compartment boundaries.
Near-Surface Soil Carbon, Carbon/Nitrogen Ratio, and Tree Species Are Tightly Linked across Northeastern United States Watersheds
Authors: Ross Donald S. , Bailey Scott W. , Lawrence Gregory B. , Shanley James B. , Fredriksen Guinevere , Jamison Austin E. , Brousseau Patricia A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Forest soils hold large stores of carbon, with the highest concentrations in the surface horizons. In these horizons, both the total C mass and the C/N ratio may respond more rapidly to changes in tree species than lower horizons. We measured C and C/N ratios in the Oa or A horizon from 12 watersheds at 8 established forested research sites in the northeastern United States. The dominant tree species included Acer saccharum, Betula alleghaniensis, Fagus grandifolia, Picea rubens, and Tsuga canadensis. In 710 plots, both soil C (50–530 g kg−1) and the C/N ratio (11.6–45.3) had a wide range. In all but the Cone Pond watershed, both N concentration and the C/N ratio were strongly related to C content. For these 11 watersheds, the average C/N ratio = 9.5 + 0.030 × C g kg−1 (R2 = 0.97, P &lt; 0.001). Ratios at Cone Pond were much higher than would be predicted from this equation and charcoal was found in numerous samples, suggesting a source of recalcitrant C. Averaged by watershed, C concentration was also significantly related to C pools. The carbon concentration of the horizons sampled was negatively related to A. saccharum + B. alleghaniensis dominance and positively related to conifer + F. grandifolia dominance. The strong relationships between C, C/N ratio, and species suggest predictable patterns in C accumulation in near-surface soils.
Positive Relationship between Aboveground Carbon Stocks and Structural Diversity in Spruce-Dominated Forest Stands in New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Wang Weifeng , Lei Xiangdong , Ma Zhihai , Kneeshaw Daniel D. , Peng Changhui 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Maintaining both the structure and functionality of forest ecosystems is a primary goal of forest management. In this study, relationships between structural diversity and aboveground stand carbon (C) stocks were examined in spruce-dominated forests in New Brunswick, Canada. Tree species, size, and height diversity indices as well as a combination of these diversity indices were used to correlate aboveground C stocks. Multiple linear regressions were subsequently used to quantify the relationships between these indices and aboveground C stocks, and partial correlation analysis was also adopted to remove the effects of other explanatory variables. Results show that stand structural diversity has a significant positive effect on aboveground C stocks even though the relationship is weak overall. Positive relationships observed between the diversity indices and aboveground C stocks support the hypothesis that increased structural diversity enhances aboveground C storage capacity. This occurs because complex forest structures allow for greater light infiltration and promote a more efficient resource use by trees, leading to an increase in biomass and C production. Mixed tolerant species composition and uneven-aged stand management in conjunction with selection or partial cutting to maintain high structural diversity is therefore recommended to preserve biodiversity and C stocks in spruce-dominated forests.
Changes in the amount of nucleotide sugars in aged mouse tissues
Authors: Imae Rieko , Manya Hiroshi , Tsumoto Hiroki , Umezawa Keitaro , Miura Yuri , Endo Tamao 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Aging affects tissue glycan profiles, which may alter cellular functions and increase the risk of age-related diseases. Glycans are biosynthesized by glycosyltransferases using the corresponding nucleotide sugar, and the availability of nucleotide sugars affects glycosylation efficiency. However, the effects of aging on nucleotide sugar profiles and contents are yet to be elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of aging on nucleotide sugars using a new LC-MS/MS method. Specifically, the new method was used to determine the nucleotide sugar contents of various tissues (brain, liver, heart, skeletal muscle, kidney, lung, and colon) of male C57BL/6NCr mice (7- or 26-month-old). Characteristic age-associated nucleotide sugar changes were observed in each tissue sample. Particularly, there was a significant decrease in UDP-glucuronic acid content in the kidney of aged mice and a decrease in the contents of several nucleotide sugars, including UDP-N-acetylgalactosamine, in the brain of aged mice. Additionally, there were variations in nucleotide sugar profiles among the tissues examined regardless of the age. The kidneys had the highest concentration of UDP-glucuronic acid among the seven tissues. In contrast, the skeletal muscle had the lowest concentration of total nucleotide sugars among the tissues; however, CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid and CDP-ribitol were relatively enriched. Conclusively, these findings may contribute to the understanding of the roles of glycans in tissue aging.
The MIC distribution of dalbavancin differs between different coagulase-negative staphylococci
Authors: Svensson Sara , Hagstedt Paulina , Söderquist Bo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
CoNS constitute a significant part of the human microbiota of skin and mucous membranes. They can cause nosocomial infections, and have shown decreased susceptibility to several antibiotics. The few remaining treatment options include (lipo)glycopeptides such as dalbavancin. However, there is a lack of knowledge concerning whether susceptibility to lipoglycopeptides varies between different species of CoNS.

Objectives
To determine the susceptibility to dalbavancin in different species of CoNS.

Methods
We investigated 480 bacterial isolates from 10 CoNS species: Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus capitis, Staphylococcus caprae, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus lugdunensis, Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus pettenkoferi, Staphylococcus hominis, Staphylococcus sciuri and Staphylococcus simulans. The isolates were randomly selected from different sources of infection, including blood isolates, as well as deep and superficial infections. Antibiotic susceptibility was tested with the gradient test method.

Results
There was a statistically significant difference (ANOVA; P &lt; 0.0001) in the MIC distribution for dalbavancin between different CoNS species. S. sciuri was the least susceptible species, with 90% of the isolates having an MIC value for dalbavancin above the EUCAST breakpoint of 0.125 mg/L. The lowest MIC90 values were seen for S. capitis, S. simulans and S. caprae (all 0.032 mg/L).

Conclusions
This study demonstrated a difference in dalbavancin susceptibility between different CoNS species, suggesting that species-specific breakpoints for CoNS should be further investigated.
Cybersecurity trends in Cooperative, Connected and Automated Mobility
Authors: Campo O Castillo , Martínez V Gayoso , Encinas L Hernández , Muñoz A Martín , Fernández R Álvarez 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Cooperative, connected and automated mobility technologies have the potential to revolutionize transportation systems and enhance safety, efficiency and sustainability. However, the increasing reliance on digital technologies also introduces new cybersecurity risks that can compromise the safety and privacy of passengers and the integrity of transportation systems. The purpose of this article is to examine the most important threats, vulnerabilities, risks and challenges related to automated mobility and to review the status of the most promising standardization initiatives on cryptography in a world where quantum computers will soon represent an actual threat.
A single arm Phase I/II trial on the combination of carboplatin, nab-paclitaxel and avastin as first-line treatment for advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (TORG1424/OLCSG1402: CARNAVAL)
Authors: Nogami Naoyuki , Kubo Toshio , Bessho Akihiro , Sakugawa Makoto , Ikeo Satoshi , Yokoyama Toshihide , Seki Nobuhiko , Ochiai Ryosuke , Fujimoto Nobukazu , Murakami Shuji , Kaira Kyoichi , Harada Toshiyuki , Kishino Daizo , Takiguchi Yuichi , Shimokawa Tsuneo , Kiura Katsuyuki , Yamashita Natsumi , Okamoto Hiroaki 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Bevacizumab with platinum doublet therapy including paclitaxel + carboplatin improves the survival of patients with non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer. However, in a previous trial (CA031), paclitaxel + carboplatin led to Grade &gt; 3 neutropenia in a Japanese population. Nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel exhibits an improved toxicity profile. We evaluated the safety, dosage and response rate of the nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel + carboplatin + bevacizumab combination in a Japanese population.

Methods
Chemotherapy-naive patients with advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer were included. The dosage schedule was established in the Phase I trial as follows: 4–6 cycles of carboplatin (area under the concentration–time curve = 6 on Day 1) + nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel (100 mg/m2 on Days 1, 8 and 15) + bevacizumab (15 mg/kg on Day 1), followed by maintenance therapy (nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel + bevacizumab). The response rate and presence of adverse effects were evaluated in the Phase II trial.

Results
The overall response rate was 56.5% (90% confidence interval: 44.5–68.5), and 93% of patients (43/46) showed tumor shrinkage or maintained a stable disease course. The primary endpoint was achieved. At the median follow-up duration of 42 months, the median overall survival was 18.9 (range: 10.5–32.4) months. The most frequently observed Grade ≥ 3 adverse effects were neutropenia (72%), leukopenia (50%) and anemia (30%).

Conclusions
All adverse effects were manageable and none resulted in patient death. In conclusion, the nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel + carboplatin + bevacizumab combination is favorable and well tolerated in Japanese patients as first-line treatment for advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer.
Alien Plant Invasions: The Story of Cogongrass in Southeastern Forests
Authors: Jose S. , Cox J. , Miller D.L. , Shilling D.G. , Merritt S. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica), an alien grass listed as a federal noxious weed, has become a force to reckon with in the forestlands of the southeastern United States. Accidentally introduced in 1912 in packing material from Japan, the weed has negatively affected both natural and planted forests. Knowledge about the biology and management of cogongrass among foresters and land managers in the region is the greatest help in the fight against this alien species. An integrated management approach using all available methods is necessary to control cogongrass.
Return of the Giants: Restoring Western White Pine to the Inland Northwest
Authors: Fins L. , Byler J. , Ferguson D. , Harvey A. , Mahalovich M.F. , McDonald G. , Miller D. , Schwandt J. , Zack A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Relatively high levels of blister rust infection in some stands of genetically improved western white pine (Pinus monticola) raised concerns that resistance may fail under field conditions. However, surveys show consistently lower infection and mortality in genetically improved white pine compared to unimproved stock. Restoring white pine by continued breeding for high levels of rust resistance, increased planting of resistant seedlings, and other silvicultural treatments are recommended to help alleviate forest health problems in Inland Northwest forests.
Performance-Based Interagency Fire Program Analysis System: Blueprint for Fire Planning
Authors: Rideout D.B. , Botti S.J. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
A new fire management paradigm reflects broadening goals, increased responsibilities, the need for interagency systems, and heightened performance accountability. Current program analysis models developed in a previous era can no longer support the expanded responsibilities and expectations for this new paradigm. We outline and discuss principles and major components of a new strategy-level, interagency program analysis system. The principles and system components are presented, not as a solution, but as a point of departure in stimulating professional dialogue toward a new system for fire management and planning.
Southern Forest Resource Assessment highlights: Changing Demographics, Values, and Attitudes
Authors: Cordell H.K. , Tarrant M.A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The South's forests are both important to and at the same time in the path of the region's growth. Research on social change for the Southern Forest Resource Assessment shows that rapid population growth and changing demographics are fueling growth of recreation demands and adding stresses on public and private forests. Concurrent with population and demand growth have been significant value and attitudinal changes among both land-owning and non-owning residents of the region. Southerners are clearly becoming greener. An opportunity to mitigate stresses on southern forests may lie in tapping Southerners' growing environmentalism to form effective cooperatives involving public and private interests and forestry professionals.
Southern Forest Resource Assessment highlights: Terrestrial Ecosystems and Wildlife Conservation
Authors: Trani M.K. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Southern population and economic growth are putting pressure on wildlife species and the communities that support them. Loss of habitat is the primary reason why 132 southern terrestrial vertebrate species are of conservation concern, but other factors include environmental contaminants, exploitation, development, stream modification, and wetland degradation. A high proportion of rare forest communities are imperiled to some degree; 14 have estimated losses of 98 percent since European settlement. In the midst of continued regional growth, biological diversity will become a critical conservation issue. Each southern landowner has an important role in the conservation of species and their habitats.
The Decline of Southern Yellow Pine Timberland
Authors: South D.B. , Buckner E.R. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The South has lost 16 million acres of southern yellow pine timberland since 1953. Factors contributing to the decline include suppression of wildfires, reduced prescribed burning, southern pine beetles, urban development, high-grading, and a lack of artificial regeneration on privately owned timberlands. Tree-planting programs on agricultural lands have helped slow the decline, and according to the Southern Forest Resource Assessment, an increase in southern yellow pine timberland could occur if 23 million acres of former cropland and pastureland were planted to pines during the next four decades. Such an effort would likely require subsidies.