Conservation Management Strategies Research Articles

Towards optimizing conservation planning: A performance evaluation of modeling techniques for predicting Mediterranean native species distribution

Understanding the intricate relationships between environmental conditions and key variables influencing species distribution is critical for ecology and conservation, especially in the face of escalating environmental challenges intensified by climate change. Species Distribution Models (SDMs) are valuable tools for predicting current and future habitat suitability, aiding in conservation planning. This study specifically sought to evaluate the predictive performance of different modeling techniques in determining the geographical distribution of three Mediterranean native species with different ecological flexibility in the western Mediterranean coastal land of Egypt namely Thymelaea hirsuta (L.) Endl., Ononis vaginalis Vahl, and Limoniastrum monopetalum (L.) Boiss. An ensemble model incorporating three modeling algorithms -the generalized linear model, boosted regression trees, and random forests- was juxtaposed against the Maxent non-parametric machine-learning modeling technique. The models integrated diverse variables, encompassing climatic, edaphic, habitat, and topographic factors. The results unveiled a high degree of similarity and agreement between the Maxent and ensemble models, both exhibiting outstanding fits and performance metrics. The ensemble model demonstrated remarkable accuracy across various measures evaluating model performance. However, Maxent showcased a comparatively strong performance, particularly in identifying critical areas for the distribution of the studied Mediterranean species. These findings emphasize the importance of employing a suite of modeling techniques to refine conservation planning and management strategies. At the local scale, the outcomes can guide targeted actions such as habitat restoration and species monitoring programs. Regionally, and globally it can inform policy development and cross-border conservation initiatives that address shared environmental challenges and contribute to frameworks for studies of similar ecosystems worldwide. Such a comprehensive approach ensures more effective safeguarding of Mediterranean native species under changing environmental conditions.

Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Forest Ecosystems and Climate Interplay: A Review

This review comprehensively examines the multifunctional role of forest ecosystems in climate regulation and the consequential impacts of climate change on these critical biomes. A systematic approach was employed, utilizing extensive bibliometric analysis and synthesis of recent literature from databases such as Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Key ecological functions of forests, including carbon sequestration, albedo modulation, evapotranspiration, and cloud formation, were scrutinized to elucidate their contributions to the global carbon cycle and local/regional climate dynamics. The analysis highlights significant phenological shifts, species migrations, and increased vulnerabilities to pests, diseases, and fire disturbances as primary indicators of climate-induced ecological changes. Furthermore, the study explores the intricate feedback loops that exacerbate deforestation and alterations in forest structure and function. Predictive models incorporating various climate scenarios are discussed, emphasizing their importance in developing adaptive management strategies for forest conservation. The findings underscore the necessity for interdisciplinary approaches and stakeholder engagement to formulate effective strategies for mitigating climate change impacts and enhancing forest ecosystem resilience. This review advances the field of ecology by providing critical insights into the interplay between forest ecosystems and climate dynamics, offering a foundation for future research and policy development.

Mowing and traditional grazing as a conservation strategy: Fine‐spatial scale impacts on the invasion of false indigo bush (Amorpha fruticosa L.) in marsh meadows

AbstractThis study examined the effects of conservation management strategies, including traditional grazing, on marsh vegetation invaded by false indigo bush (Amorpha fruticosa L.) Fine‐scale methods were employed to analyze vegetation in stands subjected to combined treatments (mowing and grazing) as well as in untreated invaded stands. Vegetation composition and diversity were evaluated using four key metrics: compositional diversity (CD), local distinctiveness (LD), association (AS), and realized species combinations (NRC). Results revealed that the combined treatment led to significantly increased CD (5.366 ± 0.394) and LD (6.41 ± 0.668), despite the presence of the invasive species. Conversely, untreated invaded vegetation exhibited lower CD (3.756 ± 0.755) and LD (4.079 ± 0.93). Additionally, AS and NRC values were higher in treated stands, although the differences were not statistically significant. Notably, the characteristic areas of all functions did not differ significantly between treated and untreated stands. These findings suggest that combining management strategies, such as mowing and traditional grazing, effectively limits A. fruticosa invasion and supports marsh ecosystem diversity by promoting the coexistence of native species. Continuous management, particularly grazing, is crucial, as cessation of these practices may lead to rapid reinvasion by the invasive species and a subsequent loss of native biodiversity. Overall, this study highlights the importance of proactive management strategies in combating invasive species and conserving marshland biodiversity.

Nest site selection by an endangered raptor, the Grey Goshawk (Accipiter novaehollandiae), in a hostile anthropogenic landscape

ABSTRACT The Grey Goshawk is an endangered raptor occurring at low densities throughout its Tasmanian range. Nesting ecology and conservation requirements of the species are poorly understood. Thus, knowledge of nest site selection and breeding habitat preferences is needed to inform conservation management strategies. Here, we investigate nest site selection in a modified anthropogenic landscape in south-east Tasmania, Australia based on 75 active nest sites. Our logistic regression models show that nest site selection is influenced by a range of variables at the landscape, nest stand and nest site level, which likely relate to territoriality, food availability and forest structure. We also used environmental and disturbance-related variables to deliver a management-specific model, which indicated distance to track, dwelling and drainage lines were significant predictors of nest site selection. Our results can be used to improve conservation management and planning strategies.

The Impact of Client Bankruptcies on Auditors’ Judgment and Future Audit Engagements

We examine whether and how engagements with bankrupt clients (i.e., bankruptcy experiences) affect auditors’ behavior in future engagements. Using a large sample of Swedish auditors-in-charge (AICs), we find that AICs’ bankruptcy experiences are positively related to the issuance of going-concern opinions to financially distressed clients, audit fees, and clients’ earnings quality. Our evidence implies that such experiences increase AICs’ conservatism and professional skepticism and contribute to higher audit quality. We also show that AICs’ bankruptcy experiences are associated with more conservative client management strategies – the lower (higher) likelihood of accepting (resigning from) financially distressed clients. Furthermore, we find that the impact of bankruptcy experiences on AICs’ decision-making is stronger when those experiences are more salient and recent, as well as when they are followed by a sanction. Overall, our findings indicate that AICs who have experienced client bankruptcies deliver higher audit quality and exhibit a greater level of conservatism in client selection, providing novel evidence on how individual auditors’ auditing styles are shaped by their professional experiences.

Management of iatrogenic ascending aortic dissection after percutaneous intervention of chronic total occlusion.

This study highlights the prevalence and conservative management strategies of iatrogenic ascending aortic dissection after percutaneous intervention (PCI) of chronic total occlusion (CTO). Retrospective analysis on patients who underwent CTO PCI from one medical center from 2020 to 2022 was performed by two operators. Data was obtained from the Prospective Global Registry for the Study of CTO database. Out of 318 patients, there were six reported cases of iatrogenic ascending aortic dissection. The causes of dissection included guiding catheter trauma, antegrade injection, two retrograde injection, and two cases of balloon rupture after lithotripsy. IVUS-guided stenting of the coronary back to the origin to seal the entry of the dissection flap occurred in two patients. All patients had a conservative management approach. No patient had to undergo urgent surgery. While the incidence remains rare, complications, including aortic dissection, are more frequent in CTO PCI as compared to non-CTO PCI. IVUS can be used to complete coronary intervention so long as the patient remains clinically and hemodynamically stable. Patients should have formal imaging with either transesophageal echocardiogram or computed tomography angiography. The outcomes of patients who experience iatrogenic aortic dissection during CTO PCI with stable coronary disease seem to be better than in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Evaluating Water Quality through Macroinvertebrate Diversity and Physicochemical Parameters in the Thamirabarani River Basin

<p style="margin-top:13px; text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:Arial,"sans-serif""><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Aquatic ecosystems in the Thamirabarani River Basin, Tamil Nadu, India, are facing increasingly complex challenges due to climate change, particularly concerning water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels. This study delves into the intricate relationship between these variables and their profound implications for freshwater biodiversity. The rising temperatures and declining dissolved oxygen levels pose escalating threats to the health of aquatic organisms and the stability of ecosystems. To tackle this issue, a hybrid methodology that integrates remote sensing and field data is proposed to calculate the Water Quality Index (WQI) and comprehensively assess ecosystem health. Remote sensing data offer valuable spatial insights, while field measurements ensure accuracy, resulting in robust findings. The study uncovers a significant negative correlation between water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels, highlighting the adverse effects of warming waters on aquatic habitats. Moreover, habitat fragmentation exacerbates climate stressors, adding further challenges to freshwater biodiversity conservation. The findings underscore the urgent need for conservation and adaptive management strategies, including temperature regulation, riparian vegetation enhancement, nutrient pollution management, and habitat connectivity preservation. By implementing these measures, biodiversity loss in freshwater ecosystems can be minimized, ensuring their resilience in the face of ongoing climate change. </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

European eel (Anguilla anguilla) survival modeling based on a 22-year capture-mark-recapture survey of a Mediterranean subpopulation.

Since the 1980s, the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) has declined by over 90% in recruitment across its European and North African distribution area. This diadromous fish spawns at sea and migrates into continental waters, where it grows for three to more than 30 years, depending on habitat conditions and location. During their growth, different habitat use tactics can locally influence the life-history traits of eels, including their survival rates. Thus, the spatio-temporal dimension of this species is crucial for management. Based on a rare Mediterranean long-term survey of more than 20 years (2001-2022) in an artificial drainage canal connected to a vast brackish lagoon (the Vaccarès lagoon), we aimed to study the dynamics of one subpopulation's life-history traits. We used Bayesian multistate capture-mark-recapture (CMR) models to assess the temporal variability in survival and abundance at both seasonal and inter-annual scales, considering life-stage structure. High survival rates and low detection probabilities were found for the undifferentiated and female yellow stages. In contrast, female silver eels exhibited lower survival rates and higher capture probabilities. Estimating detection probabilities and survival rates enabled accurate assessment of relative abundance across different life stages and time periods. Our findings indicated a substantial decrease in the abundance of undifferentiated and female yellow eels in the early 2000s, whereas the abundance of female silver eels remained consistently low yet stable throughout the study period. Considering the life stage seemed essential to study the dynamics of the eel during its continental growing period. The present results will provide key elements to propose and implement suitable sustainable environmental management strategies for eel conservation.

Assessment of the Application of Water Conservation and Demand Management Strategies—Kakuma Refugee Camp Case Study

Assessment of the Application of Water Conservation and Demand Management Strategies—Kakuma Refugee Camp Case Study

Existing evidence on the effect of urban forest management in carbon solutions and avian conservation: a systematic literature map

BackgroundUrgent solutions are needed in cities to mitigate twin crises of global climate change and biodiversity loss. Urban nature-based solutions (actions that protect, sustainably manage, and restore ecosystems while simultaneously providing human wellbeing and biodiversity benefits) are being advocated for as multi-functional tools capable of tackling these societal challenges. Urban forest management is a proposed nature-based solution with potential to address both climate change mitigation and biodiversity loss along with multiple other benefits. However, bodies of evidence measuring multiple outcomes (e.g., biodiversity conservation and nature-based climate solutions) remain siloed which limits conservation and management opportunities. In this article, we present a systematic map of the literature on urban forest management strategies that measure both biodiversity goals (through avian conservation) and climate change mitigation goals (through carbon storage and sequestration).MethodsFollowing a published protocol, we searched for evidence related to urban forest management strategies for (1) avian conservation and (2) carbon solutions within the global temperate region in academic and grey literature. In addition to Scopus, ProQuest and Web of Science Core Collection, we searched 21 specialist websites. We screened English language documents using predefined inclusion criteria on titles and abstracts, and then full texts. All qualifying literature items were coded, and metadata were extracted. No study validity appraisal was conducted. We identified knowledge clusters and gaps related to forest management strategies for both topics.Review findingsOur searches identified 19,073 articles published, of which 5445 were duplicates. The title and abstract screening removed a further 11,019 articles. After full-text screening (1762 and 1406), a total of 277 avian and 169 forest carbon literature items met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final database. We found a large knowledge base for broad-scale avian metrics: abundance, species richness. We similarly found that both avian and carbon solutions most often used broad-scale forest management components: land use type, composition, and forested area and least often considered fragmentation, connectivity, and diversity metrics (abundance, richness). The most understudied avian metrics were foraging, resources, and survival while the most understudied carbon solutions metrics were soil carbon, dead wood and organic matter and infrastructure. Avian literature most often used an experimental design (56% with comparator, 44% no comparator) while forest carbon solutions literature was dominated by observational studies (86%). In both topics, studies most often occurred over short timelines between 0 and 1 and 2–5 years. The body of evidence for both avian and carbon outcomes present a scale-mismatch between the scale of forest management strategy (e.g., land use type) and scale of application (e.g., patch). For example, the majority of studies considered forest strategies at broad scales, like land use type or composition, yet were conducted at a patch or multi-patch scale. Our systematic map also highlights that multi-city and regional urban scales are underrepresented in both carbon solutions and avian conservation and will require additional research efforts. Finally, we highlight gaps in the inclusion of recommendations in both bodies of literature. Roughly 30% of articles in each topic’s database did not include recommendations for practitioners or researchers.ConclusionsOur systematic map provides a database and identifies knowledge gaps and clusters of urban forest management strategies for (1) avian conservation and (2) carbon solutions. Overall, our map will allow researchers to fill existing gaps in literature through new research investigations, meta-analyses or systematic reviews while also pointing policymakers toward strong knowledge bases in addition to understudied or mismatched areas that require more funding.Graphical

Contributions of Urban Woodlands to Bird Diversity and Abundance in The Anatolian Side of Istanbul

Aim of study: The study aimed to assess the impact of urban woodlands on bird species diversity and abundance in the Anatolian side of Istanbul, focusing on species typically absent from urban centers but found within urban environments. The findings are intended to contribute to the development of future conservation and habitat management strategies. Area of study: The study was conducted in five areas in Üsküdar and Beykoz, including an urban center, three urban woodlands (Fethipaşa, Hidiv, and Beykoz Abrahampaşa) and a natural area in Istanbul's northern region. Material and methods: Data on bird species and their abundances were collected and tabulated through 900 point counts from April 2022 to March 2023. The data was analyzed using abundance values, species richness and diversity, identifying distribution and evenness through rank abundance distribution and curves. Similarity analysis was performed using the clustering method and species composition was compared using a Venn diagram. Main results: Seventy-two bird species were identified across the study areas. A decrease in urbanization density enhances bird species richness, diversity and evenness, with the natural area recording the highest values. Urban woodlands harbor species absent from more urbanized locations. Distinctions in species distribution and bird diversity between the areas were revealed. Research highlights: Urban woodlands are crucial areas for wildlife in metropolises, providing significance from both ecological and sociocultural perspectives. Although they may not match natural areas in species diversity, these woodlands significantly contribute to bird diversity within the urban environments. Further research is needed to explore the unique characteristics of each woodland and their contributions to urban ecosystems.

Emaciated enigma: Decline in body conditions of common dolphins in the Celtic Seas ecoregion

AbstractMonitoring the nutritional health of cetaceans has become increasingly important in a changing environment, where multiple stressors impact animals. Particularly for those species that require consumption of energy‐dense prey, such as the common dolphin. Thus far, no uniform measure for monitoring body condition has been recommended across cetaceans, and species‐specific measures may need to be developed if employed as a population condition indicator under Descriptor 1 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Here, nine morphometric body condition indices were applied to long‐term common dolphin stranding data sets originating from Ireland and the UK. We report a recent decline in the nutritional health of common dolphins in the Celtic Seas ecoregion comparing animals from 2017 to 2019 to animals from 1990 to 2006, with an increase in cases of animals dying due to starvation. Using ordinal regression trees, ventral blubber thickness (VBT) was identified as the most important index to predict nutritional status, defined at necropsy, followed by the scaled mass index (SMI). Using generalised linear models, both the VBT and SMI indices differentiated individuals that died from chronic and acute causes of death (i.e., bycatch), where animals in chronic conditions had significantly thinner VBT and lower SMI. Both significant temporal and seasonal patterns in VBT were identified, with poorer body conditions observed during the autumn and better body conditions observed during the spring, as well as an overall decline detected in VBT during the study period. While VBT was positively correlated with total body length, SMI showed the opposite trend. The VBT index is recommended for monitoring nutritional health within the species when total body length and season are considered. Further research is needed to understand the underlying causes for the observed decline, including shifts in prey availability and/or quality, to inform targeted conservation management strategies.

Monitoring Türkiye’s Vegetation Cover with NDVI: Terrestrial and Temporal Perspectives

This study aims to monitor and analyze the temporal and spatial dynamics of Türkiye's vegetation cover from 2000 to 2023 using MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) data. The primary objective is to assess the changes in vegetation density across various geographical regions of Türkiye and determine how these changes are influenced by environmental factors such as land use and climate variability. NDVI data from July of each year were processed using ArcGIS to classify vegetation into six categories, ranging from water bodies to dense forests. The study reveals significant fluctuations in NDVI values, indicating both vegetation growth and degradation across different regions over time. Key findings include a positive correlation between NDVI values and forested areas, and a negative correlation in regions affected by drought or land use change. These results provide valuable insights into the long-term trends of vegetation dynamics in Türkiye and can help inform future conservation and land management strategies.

Mechanical mowing of semi‐natural grasslands compromises soil quality and survival of a conservation target plant species

Mowing is a crucial management strategy for conservation and restoration of semi‐natural grasslands. In the past decades, dominant mowing methods have changed from manual to mechanical, using heavy machines causing soil compaction. Whereas the negative effects of compaction are well understood in agriculture and forestry, they have received little attention so far in nature management. This study aims to investigate the effects of compaction on soil quality, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities, and survival of a target plant species. We subjected seven grasslands to three contrasting mowing types: manual mowing with a brush cutter, softtrack mowing—designed to minimize soil compaction—and tractor mowing. We compared compaction, soil properties, and arbuscular mycorrhizal communities among the types. Additionally, we experimentally subjected intact grassland sods containing Devil's bit scabious (Succisa pratensis Moench), a target species of grassland conservation, to compaction levels corresponding to the three mowing types. Subsequently, we assessed plant survival. We found that soil compaction, soil nutrient availability, and toxic soil elements were significantly higher in the softtrack‐ and tractor‐mown parts of grassland sites compared to the manually mown parts. Also, the arbuscular mycorrhizal community composition differed significantly among mowing types, with the largest differences between “manual” and “tractor.” Succisa pratensis survival significantly decreased by 43 and 71% on the short term and by 71 and 86% on the longer term with increasing compaction. Consequently, mowing‐associated soil compaction compromises nature management targets via at least four mechanisms: nutrient enrichment, soil toxicity, changes in arbuscular mycorrhizal communities, and decreased survival of the target plant species.

Habitat Suitability Assessment for Two Burrowing Rodents on the Island of Lesvos: A Niche-Based Approach.

We conducted a habitat suitability assessment for two burrowing rodents, Anatolian or Nehring's blind mole rat (Nannospalax xanthodon) and Harting's vole (Microtus hartingi), on the island of Lesvos using a niche-based approach. We collected data on the presence of the two species across the island and selected several environmental variables, including land cover, geology, and habitat topography, to assess their influence on habitat suitability. We used the Maxent species distribution modelling algorithm to predict suitable habitats. The results showed that both species preferred habitats with low slopes and specific geological substrates, i.e., alluvial deposits and volcanic rocks. M. hartingi showed a preference for open habitats such as saltmarshes and non-irrigated arable land, while N. xanthodon preferred non-irrigated arable land, pastures, and discontinuous urban fabric. The model predicted a wider area of suitable habitats for Microtus hartingi compared to N. xanthodon. Interestingly, the two species are absent from the southeastern part of the island despite our model predicting high suitability; this indicates that a natural barrier of hilly terrain, extensive pine forests, and limestone rock formations may exist that impedes dispersal. Our study provides valuable insights into the habitat preferences of these two burrowing rodents on the island of Lesvos, which can inform biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management strategies.

Are combined conservative interventions effective in reducing pain, disability and/or global rating of pain in people with sciatica with known neuropathic pain mechanisms?

National Clinical Guidelines recommend an integrated combination of conservative management strategies for sciatica. However, the efficacy of such combinations have not been established. The purpose of this systemic review with meta-analysis was to determine the efficacy of combined conservative (non-pharmacological) compared to single interventions for people with sciatica with a confirmed neuropathic mechanism. The systematic review was registered on PROSPERO CRD42023464011. The databases included were the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), CINAHL (EBSCO), Embase, PubMed, Scopus, APA PsycINFO, and grey literature sources from inception until January 2024. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials that assessed the effectiveness of combined non-pharmacological interventions in comparison to a control intervention among individuals with sciatica of a neuropathic origin identified using diagnostic or clinical tests. Primary outcomes were back pain, leg pain, and disability. The secondary outcome was global rating of change. Study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment (using Cochrane ROB2) were assessed by two reviewers. Meta-analysis was performed with a random effects model with inverse variance weighting used for the metanalysis using SPSS v 29. 3,370 articles were identified, of which 6 were included. Risk of bias was high in one study and had some concerns in the remaining 5 studies for each outcome measure. There was evidence of efficacy for combined interventions for back pain in the short-and long-term (SMD - 0.56 (95% CI -0.91, -0.22, p = 0.01, I2 = 0.2; SMD - 0.44 (95% CI -0.79, -0.1, p = 0.03, I2 = 0.00), and for disability in the short term (SMD - 0.48 (95% CI -0.92, -0.04, p = 0.04, I2 = 0.72). There was no evidence of efficacy for leg pain at any time point (( short term SMD - 0.45 (95% CI -0.91, 0.02, p = 0.06, I2 = 0.65), medium term (SMD - 0.29 (95% CI -1.12, 0.54, p = 0.35, I2 = 0.82), long term (SMD - 0.40 (95% CI -1.23, 0.44, p = 0.18, I2 = 0.57).Certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate. There are few studies that have combined conservative (non-pharmacological) interventions for the management of sciatica with a neuropathic component pain mechanism, as recommended by National Clinical Guidelines. This review indicates that combining conservative (no-pharmacological) management strategies appeared more effective than single interventions for the outcomes of low back pain in the short and long term, and for disability in the short term, but not for leg pain at any time point. The overall low certainty of evidence, suggests that future studies with more robust methodologies are needed.

Ecological connectivity of the Qiongzhou Strait: a case form Orangefin Ponyfish (Photopectoralis bindus) haplotype diversity and genetic structure

Grasping the genetic structure of marine fish populations is vital for comprehending species connectivity patterns and determining the appropriate spatiotemporal scales for conservation management strategies. Here, we analyzed the population genetics of the Orangefin Ponyfish (Photopectoralis bindus Valenciennes, 1835) by examining a portion of the gene coding for the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I. The aim was to evaluate the haplotype pattern, genetic structure, demographic history, as well as the influence of ecological connectivity through the Qiongzhou Strait on the distribution patterns of this species in the northern South China Sea and the Beibu Gulf. In total, 257 specimens yielded only 13 haplotypes, with the predominant haplotype present at all sampling locations. The analysis revealed a “star-like” haplotype pattern, indicating low levels of both haplotype and nucleotide diversity. Additionally, a small but significant genetic structure was observed between the coastal regions flanking the Leizhou Peninsula. These patterns in the haplotype network and genetic structure may be significantly influenced by contemporary currents, particularly through the connectivity of the Qiongzhou Strait. Tajima’s D and Fu’s Fs demonstrated pronouncedly negative values, along with a unimodal mismatch distribution, suggested a recent demographic expansion of Photopectoralis bindus during the late Pleistocene, likely influenced by fluctuations in sea levels.

Incidence and Management of Pseudocysts in Patients With Ventriculoperitoneal Shunts: A Study in Pakistan.

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts are a common medical intervention used to treat hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain's ventricles, leading to increased intracranial pressure. While VP shunts are effective in managing hydrocephalus, they can lead to complications such as the formation of abdominal pseudocysts, which can compromise the functionality of the shunt and pose significant health risks. The primary objective of this study was to determine the incidence of pseudocyst formation in patients with VP shunts in Pakistan. The secondary objective was to evaluate the outcomes of conservative versus surgical management strategies and identify risk factors associated with pseudocyst recurrence in this population. This prospective observational study was conducted at Jinnah Teaching Hospital, Pakistan, from January 2021 to December 2022. The study included 50 patients diagnosed with pseudocysts associated with VP shunts. Participants were managed with either conservative (observation and aspiration) or surgical interventions (shunt revision, relocation, removal, or pseudocyst excision). The primary outcome measures were the resolution rates of pseudocysts and the incidence of complications. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests, t-tests, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, with significance set at p<0.05. The study found a 3.5% incidence of pseudocysts among 1400 VP shunt patients. The median time to pseudocyst formation was 22 months (IQR 18-30). Surgical management yielded an 85% resolution rate compared to 60% for conservative management (p = 0.02). The recurrence of pseudocysts was significantly associated with advanced age (HR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-3.2), a higher BMI (HR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3-3.7), and the presence of hydrocephalus (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.9). Although surgical interventions had a higher complication rate (14% vs. 6% for conservative management), the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.1). The study highlights a 3.5% incidence of pseudocysts in VP shunt patients, with surgical management proving more effective than conservative methods despite a slightly higher, non-significant risk of complications. These findings underscore the importance of tailored patient management, particularly for those at higher risk of recurrence, and suggest the need for further research to enhance surgical techniques and outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings.

Early and Late Surgery-Free Rates of Conservative Management Strategy for Thrombosed Type A Acute Aortic Dissection and Acute Intramural Hematoma.

Background: We have employed a conservative management approach, including intensive control of both blood pressure and heart rate, in patients with aortic intramural hematoma (AIMH) and retrograde thrombosed type A acute aortic dissection (RT-TAAAD), sharing common clinical and imaging characteristics. Methods: To evaluate the outcomes of our conservative management approach, we retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 98 patients diagnosed with AIMH or RT-TAAAD from January 2008 to March 2023. A conservative management approach was applied, except for those patients with an aortic diameter ≥ 55 mm, false lumen expansion, or cardiac tamponade, who underwent emergency aortic repair. Results: Besides 2 patients, who declined surgery and subsequently died from aortic rupture, 18 patients underwent urgent aortic surgery, while 78 did not. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified the extrusion type of ulcer-like projections (ULPs) on admission and a maximum aortic diameter ≥ 45 mm on Day 1 as risk factors for acute aortic surgery. Among the 78 patients who were discharged, 9 (12%) underwent aortic surgery, while 69 (88%) did not, with a median follow-up of 44 months. The overall actuarial aortic surgery-free rates were 78% at 1 year and 72% at 5 years, respectively. A Cox proportional hazards analysis identified ULPs and an aortic diameter ≥ 45 mm at discharge as risk factors for late aortic surgery. Conclusions: The early and late outcomes of our conservative strategy for AIMH and RT-TAAAD demonstrate favorable surgery-free rates. The extrusion type of ULPs on admission and an aortic diameter ≥ 45 mm on Day 1 are predictors of acute aortic surgery, while ULPs and an aortic diameter ≥ 45 mm at discharge are predictors of late surgery.

Spatio-temporal dynamics of net primary productivity and the economic value of Spartina alterniflora in the coastal regions of China

This study employs an improved Carnegie–Ames–Stanford Approach (CASA) model to calculate the Net Primary Productivity (NPP) of Spartina alterniflora (SA) and various other land use/land cover types (LULC) across coastal China over multiple years. The research aims to provide significant theoretical and practical insights into carbon sink research in coastal zones, sustainable development, and resource management. Key findings include identifying the first εmax value of 2.219 g C/MJ for SA, addressing a critical data gap in CASA modeling research on invasive plants. SA's NPP exhibited higher values in Shanghai and Zhejiang due to factors such as genetic diversity, invasion duration, and tidal dynamics. In contrast, other LULC exhibited higher NPP values in southern and inland regions, characterized by greater vegetation cover and favorable growing conditions. In 2020, SA and other LULC sequestered 16.352 kt C and 0.821*106 kt C, respectively. From 2000 to 2020, the average annual NPP and total carbon storage of SA and other LULC increased significantly, primarily driven by Shanghai and deciduous needleleaf forests, respectively. Seasonal NPP trends followed summer> spring> autumn> winter, influenced by climate conditions and plant life activities. Economic assessments in 2020 estimated SA's carbon storage value at RMB0.409 billion (Market Value method) or RMB5.562 billion (Carbon Tax method), with RMB2.054 billion attributed to oxygen release values, underscoring its economic and ecological potential. Among other LULC, evergreen broadleaf forests showed the highest carbon storage value (RMB183.463 billion). The study emphasizes the critical role of all LULC in carbon storage and oxygen release, advocating for targeted conservation and land management strategies. It suggests that managing SA should balance stringent control in high-risk areas, lenient measures in low-risk areas, eradication of scattered populations, and maximizing ecological benefits in retention areas, with continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies to balance conservation and development efforts.