bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Data management for monitoring forest soils in Europe for the Biosoil project
Authors: Lacarce E. , Le Bas C. , Cousin J.‐L. , Pesty B. , Toutain B. , Houston Durrant T. , Montanarella L. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractGrowing environmental awareness and advances in modelling have generated interest in soil monitoring networks. Data management tools have to be developed in order to store data, check for errors and retrieve data for sharing and for analysis. As a result, we have designed a web application and a database for the Biosoil project that focuses on European forest soils. Integral to the system are authentication of users and access rights to the modules and data. It also logs all activities of each user. During data submission, the system automatically manages data transfer from the flat file (ASCII file) to the database after compliance checks. Then error tracking is followed by automated expert checks. These checks identify potential mistakes that can be corrected or commented on by data providers. The database is intended to cope with the challenges of transnational monitoring and integrates data quality assurance/quality control mechanisms. Benefits from the architecture of the database and from the services provided by the software may be generalized to all soil monitoring databases in order to improve data management and quality control.
Assymetry of Temporal Artery Diameters During Spontaneous Attacks of Cluster Headache
Authors: Nielsen Thue H. , Tfelt‐Hansen Peer , Iversen Helle K. 
Published: February 2009

Background.— Cluster headache is characterized by strictly unilateral head pain associated with symptoms of cranial autonomic features. Transcranial Doppler studies showed in most studies a bilateral decreased blood flow velocity in the middle cerebral artery.Objective.— To investigate whether there is a bilateral or unilateral extracranial vasodilation during spontaneous cluster headache attacks.Design and methods.— In 9 cluster headache patients, we investigated the luminal diameter of the superficial temporal artery with ultrasound on the headache and headache‐free side during and outside cluster headache attacks.Results.— During cluster headache attacks, the diameter of the superficial temporal artery on the painful side was greater, 1.48 mm, than the diameter on the nonheadache site, 1.14 mm (P < .01). Outside attacks, median diameters on the 2 sides were quite comparable, 1.34 vs 1.31 mm (P = .67).Conclusions.— What was observed is most likely a general pain‐induced arterial vasoconstriction (confer the decrease in diameter on the pain‐free side) with an unchanged superficial temporal artery on the pain side because of some vasodilator influence.
Comprehensive Inpatient Treatment of Refractory Chronic Daily Headache
Authors: Lake Alvin E. , Saper Joel R. , Hamel Robert L. 
Published: February 2009

Objective.—(1) To assess outcome at discharge for a consecutive series of admissions to a comprehensive, multidisciplinary inpatient headache unit; (2) To identify outcome predictors.Background.—An evidence‐based assessment (2004) concluded that many refractory headache patients appear to benefit from inpatient treatment, underscoring the need for more research, including outcome predictors.Methods.—The authors completed a retrospective chart review of 283 consecutive admissions over 6 months. The inpatient program (mean length of stay = 13.0 days) included intravenous and oral medication protocols, drug withdrawal when indicated, cognitive‐behavior therapy, and other services when needed, including anesthesiological intervention. Patient‐reported pain levels and consensus of medical staff determined outcome status.Results.—The 267 completers (94%) included 212 women and 55 men (mean age = 40.3 years, range = 13‐74) from 43 states and Canada. The modal diagnosis was intractable, chronic daily headache (85%), predominantly migraine. Most (59%) had medication overuse headache (MOH), involving opioids (48%), triptans (16%), or butalbital‐containing analgesics (10%). Psychiatric diagnoses included stress‐related headache (82%), mood disorders (70%), anxiety disorders (49%), and personality disorders (PD, 26%). More patients with a PD (62%) had opioid‐related MOH than those with no PD (38%),P < .005. Of the completers, 78% had moderate to significant pain reduction, with comparable improvement in mood, function, and behavior. Clinical factors predicting moderate‐significant headache improvement were limited to MOH (84% vs 69%,P < .007) and presence of a PD (68% vs 81%,P < .03).Conclusions.—Most patients (78%) improved following aggressive, comprehensive inpatient treatment. Maintenance of improvement is likely to depend on multiple post‐discharge factors, including continuity of care, compliance, and home or work environment.
One or Several Types of Triptan Overuse Headaches?
Authors: Créac'h Christelle , Radat Francoise , Mick Gerard , Guegan‐Massardier Evelyne , Giraud Pierric , Guy Nathalie , Fabre Nelly , Nachit‐Ouinekh Fatima , Lanteri‐Minet Michel 
Published: February 2009

Background.—Whereas the clinical features of pure triptan overuse headache (TOH) are well known, there are insufficient data regarding the semiological pattern of headaches when triptan overuse is associated with other types of medication overuse.Objective.—To investigate and compare the clinical characteristics of patients with pure TOH and those with medication overuse headaches associating triptan and other medication overuses (combined TOH).Methods.—This cross‐sectional, observational study was conducted in 7 tertiary‐care headache centers participating in the French Observatory of Migraine and Headaches. From 2004 to 2006, data from 163 patients with TOH were collected in face‐to‐face structured interviews (according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition criteria).Results.—Eighty‐two patients fulfilled criteria for pure TOH (pTOH patients) and 81 for combined TOH (cTOH) patients. Continuous headaches were reported in 76% of cTOH patients compared with 32% of pTOH patients. Significantly more frequent and severe headaches and more intense phono‐/photophobia between attacks were noted in cTOH patients. More cTOH than pTOH patients reported a history of tension‐type headaches and a long‐standing history of chronic headaches. Finally, compared with pTOH patients, cTOH patients were characterized by stronger dependence on acute treatments of headaches according to the DSM‐IV criteria.Conclusions.—Combined therapy with analgesics and/or the total number of drug units taken per day may cause a shift from a pattern of clear‐cut headache attacks in patients with pTOH toward more severe clinical presentation in patients with cTOH. These patients should receive more intensive prophylactic therapy and specific behavioral management.
Human alveolar bone cell proliferation, expression of osteoblastic phenotype, and matrix mineralization on porous titanium produced by powder metallurgy
Authors: Rosa Adalberto Luiz , Crippa Grasiele Edilaine , De Oliveira Paulo Tambasco , Taba Jr Mario , Lefebvre Louis‐Philippe , Beloti Marcio Mateus 
Published: February 2009

AbstractObjective: This study aimed at investigating the influence of the porous titanium (Ti) structure on the osteogenic cell behaviour.Materials and methods: Porous Ti discs were fabricated by the powder metallurgy process with the pore size typically between 50 and 400 μm and a porosity of 60%. Osteogenic cells obtained from human alveolar bone were cultured until subconfluence and subcultured on dense Ti (control) and porous Ti for periods of up to 17 days.Results: Cultures grown on porous Ti exhibited increased cell proliferation and total protein content, and lower levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity than on dense Ti. In general, gene expression of osteoblastic markers–runt‐related transcription factor 2, collagen type I, alkaline phosphatase, bone morphogenetic protein‐7, and osteocalcin was lower at day 7 and higher at day 17 in cultures grown on porous Ti compared with dense Ti, a finding consistent with the enhanced growth rate for such cultures. The amount of mineralized matrix was greater on porous Ti compared with the dense one.Conclusion: These results indicate that the porous Ti is an appropriate substrate for osteogenic cell adhesion, proliferation, and production of a mineralized matrix. Because of the three‐dimensional environment it provides, porous Ti should be considered an advantageous substrate for promoting desirable implant surface–bone interactions.
Black stain and dental caries in Filipino schoolchildren
Authors: Heinrich‐Weltzien Roswitha , Monse Bella , Van Palenstein Helderman Wim 
Published: February 2009

Abstract –  Black stain is defined as dark pigmented exogenous substance in lines or dots parallel to the gingival margin and firmly adherent to the enamel at the cervical third of the tooth crowns in the primary and permanent dentition.Objectives:  This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of black stain on teeth of Filipino children and to determine a possible association between black stain and caries levels. The study was designed to test the following hypotheses: (i) the prevalence of black stain does not differ between children from schools with oral health intervention programs and those from schools without an intervention program, (ii) the prevalence of black stain does not differ in children attending easily accessible and remote schools, (iii) caries prevalence and caries experience do not differ in children with and without black stain and (iv) the caries distribution at the surface level does not differ in children with and without black stain.Methods:  In total, 32 elementary schools were included. 19 schools with a comprehensive school‐based preventive oral health program, seven schools with a basic preventive program and six control schools. All sixth graders of these schools (n = 1748) aged 11.7 ± 1.1 years were clinically examined for black stain. DMFT was assessed in 1121 children by seven calibrated dentists using WHO criteria. DMFS was scored in 627 children by two calibrated dentists.Results:  Black stain was found in 16% of this population. The prevalence of black stain did not differ significantly between children attending schools with different oral health intervention programs. Thus, hypothesis 1 was accepted. The prevalence of black stain was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in remote than in more accessible schools. Thus, hypothesis 2 was rejected. Children with black stain had significantly lower (P < 0.05) caries prevalence and caries experience than children without black stain. Thus, hypothesis 3 was rejected. No difference was found in the DMFS pattern of occlusal, smooth and proximal surfaces between children with and without black stain. Thus hypothesis 4 was accepted.Conclusions:  The presence of black stain is associated with lower levels of caries, but a difference in the distribution of caries in black stain children was not noticed. The interplay between black stain, caries, oral microflora and diet remains unclear and urges further research.
On the Reliability of Quantitative Volumetric and Structural Neuroimaging
Authors: Klein J. , Laun F. , Erhard P. , Diehl V. , Hahn H. K. 
Published: February 2009

SummaryQuantitative neuroimaging techniques have become emerging technologies within clinical practice. In this paper, we survey a few clinical applications where quantification methods have received increasing attention, namely in the area of brain atrophy, lesion load computation and quantification of diffusion processes. We focus on the reliability and reproducibility of such methods and will use the example of quantitative diffusion tensor imaging to discuss methodological details. There, we show possible avenues for evaluating correctness and reliability. On the one hand, we show results from our novel hardware phantom experiments, where axonal fibres are emulated by synthetic industry fibres. On the other hand, we present a new framework for constructing software phantoms which can be used to evaluate, for example, the impact of partial volume effects in case of axonal loss as to be found in multiple sclerosis. Advantages and disadvantages as well as pitfalls of quantification and evaluation techniques are illustrated throughout the paper.
Computer‐Aided Diagnosis in Thoracic Computed Tomography
Authors: Van Ginneken B. 
Published: February 2009

SummaryCurrent computed tomography (CT) technology allows for isotropic, sub‐millimetre resolution acquisition of the thorax in a few seconds. These thin‐slice chest scans have become indispensable in thoracic radiology, but have also increased the time and effort required from radiologists for reporting. Industry has focused on the development of computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) tools to facilitate the interpretation of thoracic CT data. In this paper I discuss the three most ‘senior’ CAD applications for chest CT: nodule detection, nodule volumetry and quantification of emphysema. Are these applications ready for widespread application?
Computer‐Aided Detection in Mammography
Authors: Karssemeijer N. 
Published: February 2009

SummaryIn breast cancer imaging many innovations continue to take place. This article discusses computer‐aided detection (CAD) of breast cancer in mammograms, which is the first large‐scale application of independent computerized interpretation of radiological images. Thousands of systems have already been installed worldwide and use of CAD is rapidly expanding with the introduction of digital mammography. Radiologists are generally pleased with the new technology, in particular for its ability to mark clustered microcalcifications with high sensitivity. However, most believe that the performance of CAD for mass detection should still be improved to make it more useful. Most clinical studies indicate that CAD is effective in practice, both for detection of masses and microcalcifications. Future developments show a trend towards using CAD not only for detection but also for characterization of lesions.
Spontaneous and initiated succession on unvegetated slopes in the abandoned lignite‐mining area of Goitsche, Germany
Authors: Kirmer Anita , Mahn Ernst‐Gerhard 
Published: February 2009

Abstract. In this study, we examined the colonization of unvegetated, dry slopes in the lignite‐mining area of Goitsche, Germany. The plots, characterized by different habitat conditions, were studied from 1994–2000.The vegetation development on treated plots was compared to untreated plots showing spontaneous succession. For initial treatments we used fresh plant clippings from a species‐rich sandy grassland (Armerion elongatae) mowed at the end of July. Soil seed bank samples, taken at the beginning of the experiments and cultivated for 18 months, confirmed that the vegetation development on the slopes started with primary succession. Because seed rain is considered to be an important factor in primary succession, we also studied the diaspore input during the first year. The hospitable Quaternary substrate of Site I (pH = 4.1–4.7, 92 % sand) supports fast vegetation development on treated and untreated plots. On treated plots, we have identified plant assemblages similar to initial stages of the Armerion elongatae community. On control plots, Coryne‐phorion communities have established spontaneously. At Site II (mixed Quaternary and Tertiary substrate, pH = 3.0–3.5,40 % sand) the total cover and number of psammophytic species was low. Treated plots showed development towards ruderal sandy grassland, but the establishment of Calamagrostis epigejos would eventually lead to monodominant stands. Untreated control plots showed basically the same pattern, however the development was slower. At Site III (pH = 1.8–2.8, 34 % sand), the hostile Tertiary substrate impeded the succession on both treated and untreated plots because low pH and therefore high amounts of Al3+ produced elemental toxicity to plants. The application of plant clippings accelerated the vegetation development in sites with a pH exceeding 3.On plots with the initial treatment, vegetation cover and total number of species were higher than on untreated plots. The application of fresh plant clippings from areas with similar habitat conditions appears to be a viable alternative to traditional restoration methods.
Species richness and species turnover in a successional heathland
Authors: Chytrý Milan , Sedláková Iva , Tichý Lubomír 
Published: February 2009

Abstract. Changes in species richness and species turnover during secondary succession following experimental disturbance were studied in eight permanent plots in a species‐rich dry heathland in the southern part of the Czech Republic. The treatments applied were sod‐cutting, burning, cutting of above‐ground biomass, and control. The plots were sampled annually between 1992 and 2000; species richness was analysed at three scales, 25 cm × 25 cm, 1 m × 1 m, and 3 m × 3 m.Disturbances resulted in increased species richness. The highest vascular plant richness was attained during the secondary succession after sod‐cutting, where species established on exposed bare ground. Less severe disturbances by burning and cutting also caused a slight increase in the number of vascular plant species. For bryophytes and lichens, the highest increase in the number of species was also found in the sod‐cut plots, where all cryptogams were removed by the disturbance. At the scale of 3 m × 3 m, species richness of both vascular plants and cryptogams peaked in 1995–1996, i.e. 3–4 yrs after the disturbance, and slowly decreased or slightly fluctuated without any trend thereafter. At smaller scales it either peaked later or constantly increased over the entire observation period of 9 yrs. Species mobility, expressed as species accumulation over time, was lower than reported from grasslands. Rates of species turnover, calculated as Jaccard dissimilarity between pairs of consecutive years, corresponded across different scales. This implies that successional dry heathlands have a higher small‐scale mobility than heathlands which are apparently stable at larger scale.
Modeling landscape patterns of understory tree regeneration in the Pacific Northwest, USA
Authors: Wimberly Michael C. , Spies Thomas A. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract. Vegetation maps serve as the basis for spatial analysis of forest ecosystems and provide initial information for simulations of forest landscape change. Because of the limitations of current remote sensing technology, it is not possible to directly measure forest understory attributes across large spatial extents. Instead we used a predictive vegetation mapping approach to model Tsuga heterophylla and Picea sitchensis seedling patterns in a 3900‐ha landscape in the Oregon Coast Range, USA, as a function of Landsat TM imagery, aerial photographs, digital elevation models, and stream maps. Because the models explained only moderate amounts of variability (R2 values of 0.24–0.56), we interpreted the predicted patterns as qualitative spatial trends rather than precise maps.P. sitchensis seedling patterns were tightly linked to the riparian network, with highest densities in coastal riparian areas. T. heterophylla seedlings exhibited complex patterns related to topography and overstory forest cover, and were also spatially clustered around patches of old‐growth forest. We hypothesize that the old growth served as refugia for this fire‐sensitive species following wildfires in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Low levels of T. heterophylla regeneration in hardwood‐dominated forests suggest that these patches may succeed to shrublands rather than to conifer forest.Predictive models of seedling patterns could be developed for other landscapes where georeferenced inventory plots, remote sensing data, digital elevation models, and climate maps are available.
Foraging geese, vegetation loss and soil degradation in an Arctic salt marsh
Authors: Jefferies Robert L. , Rockwell Robert F. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract.The North American mid‐continent population of Lesser snow geese (Chen caerulescens caerulescensL.) has increased by ca. 7% per year, largely as a result of geese feeding on agricultural crops in winter and on migration. We describe the long‐term effects of increasing numbers of geese at an arctic breeding ground (La Pérouse Bay, Manitoba) on intertidal salt‐marsh vegetation. Between 1985 and 1999 goose grubbing caused considerable loss of graminoid vegetation along transects in intertidal marshes. Loss of vegetation led to bare sediment with a plant cover of less than 2%. Changes in vegetation could not be described by simple linear, geometric or exponential functions; most losses occurred between 1988 and 1990 and losses were staggered in time between individual transects, some of which had all vegetation removed.Between 1979 and 1999 the standing crop in July in remaining intact heavily‐grazed swards ofPuccinellia phry‐ganodesandCarex subspathaceafell from 40–60 g m‐2to 20–30 g m‐2. Intense grazing on remaining patches of sward has restricted growth of these clonal forage plants and hypersalinity of bare sediments has precluded re‐establishment of vegetation. Between 1989 and 1993 numbers of faecal droppings in grazed plots reached maximum values of 15–22 droppings m‐2wk‐1. Since then peak values have remained at less than 13 droppings m‐2wk‐1. The loss of vegetation and changes in soil conditions have resulted in the establishment of an alternative stable state (hypersaline bare sediment).
70 years of permanent plot research in The Netherlands
Authors: Smits N.A.C. , Schaminée J.H.J. , van Duuren L. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract. Within the framework of the Dutch ‘Network Ecological Monitoring’, a large set of new permanent plots has been established to monitor selected plant communities throughout The Netherlands for studying the effects of environmental changes on species composition of semi‐natural communities. This national programme will also make use of pre‐existing permanent plots. These plots reflect the long and comprehensive history of research using permanent plots in The Netherlands, where the first permanent plots were established in the early 1930s. To enhance the usefulness of preexisting permanent plots, a comprehensive permanent plot database was compiled. This database was derived from the Dutch National Vegetation Database, that was established for the recent vegetation classification of The Netherlands. This was supplemented with information from various organizations and a number of individual researchers. Currently, the permanent plot database contains ca. 6000 permanent plots. More than 2500 of these plots have been sampled at least 5, and ca. 1500 plots at least 10. Most of the plots are from grasslands, followed by forests and dune systems.This database not only provides insight into vegetation succession, fluctuations within plant communities over time, and the effects of changes of the environment on the vegetation but, indirectly, italso offers the possibility of studying the long‐term behaviour of individual plant species (e.g. establishment, competition, longevity). For the Network Ecological Monitoring a selection of these (historical) plots will be added to the new network of permanent plots in The Netherlands, thus supplying information of past vegetation conditions.