Replacing monocultures with mixed-species stands: Ecosystem service implications of two production forest alternatives in Sweden

Whereas there is evidence that mixed-species approaches to production forestry in general can provide positive outcomes relative to monocultures, it is less clear to what extent multiple benefits can be derived from specific mixed-species alternatives. To provide such insights requires evaluations of an encompassing suite of ecosystem services, biodiversity, and forest management considerations provided by specific mixtures and monocultures within a region. Here, we conduct such an assessment in Sweden by contrasting even-aged Norway spruce (Picea abies)-dominated stands, with mixed-species stands of spruce and birch (Betula pendula or B. pubescens), or spruce and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). By synthesizing the available evidence, we identify positive outcomes from mixtures including increased biodiversity, water quality, esthetic and recreational values, as well as reduced stand vulnerability to pest and pathogen damage. However, some uncertainties and risks were projected to increase, highlighting the importance of conducting comprehensive interdisciplinary evaluations when assessing the pros and cons of mixtures.     

The Determination of Gravimetric Pollution Concentrations by Means of Filter Papers

This report, published as Informative Report No. 1 of the Air Pollution Control Association’s TA-8 Meteorological Committee, began to move through the fourteen step approval procedure in March 1964. Comments made by members of the Technical Council were used in the preparation of the final report. It is now being published as representing the "best thinking of the Association." It is an extremely timely and informative report.     

Prenatal findings in generalized amyoplasia

Amyoplasia is a rare, sporadic condition characterized by different degrees of maldevelopment of the skeletal muscles, which are replaced by fibrous and fatty tissue. In this report, we present a case of generalized amyoplasia presenting at 19 weeks' gestation. The most striking finding was the absence of fetal movements, resulting in severe multiple congenital contractures, hydrops, and polyhydramnios. At autopsy, histological examination of the skeletal muscle showed small groups of poorly developed fibres within areas of fat. This report suggests that generalized amyoplasia could be a common cause of severe forms of multiple congenital contractures, but is probably underdiagnosed at post-mortem because of inadequate examination of muscles. Definitive diagnosis is important in determining the risks of recurrence in these cases.     

Prenatal diagnosis of Hb H disease due to compound heterozygosity for South-East Asian deletion and Hb constant spring by polymerase chain reaction

A pregnant woman has two children affected by moderately severe Hb H disease due to compound heterozygosity of South-east Asian deletion and Constant Spring mutation. In her third pregnancy, transabdominal chorionic villus sampling was performed at the tenth gestational week to obtain fetal DNA. The polymerase chain reaction was used for detection of both the South-east Asian deletion and the Constant Spring mutation. Hb H disease was diagnosed in the fetus. After genetic counselling, the couple elected to have the pregnancy terminated.     

Women's role in rural water supply and development: Trends and expectations in Nigeria

Summary There has been a paucity of reliable data on the contribution of Nigerian women in rural development, particularly with respect to water projects. From a detailed survey of many rural settings, and an evaluation of the availability of sources of water and the existing methods of purification, it was discovered that rural women, especially those of younger years, were heavily involved in water collection. The time and energy involved in water fetching and purification could sometimes be so high that other economic and domestic activities were adversely affected. The participation of Nigerian women in water development and quality improvement is hindered by problems, such as their standard of education, low level of awareness of the benefits of a good water source, lack of funds and organisational constraints. In general, this study has recognised an urgent need for more imaginative, better funded and better co-ordinated water development projects for the enhancement of the quality of life, especially for women in rural settings.