Export and import of timber in selected member states of the European Union

The aim of this work was to assess the rate of the changes in roundwood export and import in selected countries of the European Union during the period of 2003−2012. The data published in the FAO statistical yearbooks and concerning exported and imported timber amounts and values in the majority of the EU member states was analyzed. Based on the study, it can be concluded that international trade of wood is increasingly important in the development of the timber sector in different European countries. Import and export of raw timber changed both in terms of volume and value. In the years 2003−2012, the largest volume of timber export was recorded in Germany (55 mio m3). Compared to other countries, the extensive export of raw timber was also found in France (52 mio m3) and Latvia (44 mio m3). The greatest value of the exported roundwood in the analyzed decade was found in Germany (4,922 mio US$), France (3,482 mio US$) and the Czech Republic (2,690 mio US$). In the analyzed period, the largest importers of the roundwood material included Finland (106 mio m3), Austria (85 mio m3) and Sweden (76 mio m3). The highest value of imports of roundwood was recorded in Austria (7,224 mio US$). List of the countries characterized by high financial value of imported raw timber included Finland (6,771 mio US$) and Sweden (5,170 mio US$). Many countries (e.g. Luxembourg, Sweden, Ireland), that recorded a negative rate of volume change in raw timber export also, experienced an increase in the value of the change. In countries, which experienced the highest growth rate of raw timber import (i.e. Romania, Slovakia, Lithuania), one can see beneficial processes to support the development of the enterprises engaged in the processing of roundwood

Evaluating the impact of silvicultural treatments and forest habitat type on the cost of timber harvest in cleanings and thinnings

Integrating the economic aspects of forest management (cost) with ecological elements of timber production (habitat type) significantly contributes to a better understanding of forest growth and utilisation. The type of silvicultural treatments and forest habitat types determine number of economic activities carried out in the stands and have an important impact on the associated costs. The aim of the study was to describe the impact of silviculture treatments and types of forest habitat on unit timber harvesting cost. We summarised the cost of timber logging depending on the harvest practices and types of habitats. In total, costs of treatments performed on the 2.5 thousand ha area were analysed. Obtained results were combined in relation to average unit costs of raw timber logging from individual habitats and silviculture treatments such as late cleanings and thinnings. The studied impact was assessed with standard deviation (SD) based on the assumption that the higher its value, the more important role of silvicultural treatments and forest habitats in defining the cost of raw timber harvesting. Our study showed that both factors (type of forest habitat and silvicultural treatment) had an effect on variability of timber logging costs. Comparing deciduous and coniferous habitats, higher costs were reported for the latter one. The highest unit cost of timber logging was found on the fresh coniferous habitat, while the lowest on the wet mixed forest. Moreover, the highest cost was reported for timber raw material harvested from late cleanings and the lowest from late thinnings. SD of the average cost of timber harvest ranged from 12.67 to 13.53 PLN depending on the silviculture treatments and from 0.68 to 2.39 PLN depending on the forest type. Our findings are important preliminary steps in broader study regarding revenues generated from forest stands growing on different habitats. Eventually it would help in assessing the profitability of economic activity that depends on environmental conditions of forest management

Recognition, diagnosis and referral of patients with Dupuytren's disease:a review of current concepts for general practitioners in Europe

<p>Background:</p><p>Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a fairly prevalent yet under-recognised disorder of the palmar fascia, resulting in fixed-flexion contractures of joints in the hand. Numerous population-based studies have been conducted in countries around the world, and published prevalence estimates vary widely. Nevertheless, most studies have shown that the prevalence of DD increases with age. Because the global population is aging, the prevalence of DD will also continue to increase.</p><p>Scope:</p><p>Patients with DD typically present to a variety of physicians, generalists and specialists alike. Thus, it is critical that providers have clear guidance on the early recognition of signs and symptoms, comprehensive evaluation of potential risk factors, differential diagnosis and when to refer a patient for treatment. Treatment options range from minimally invasive injections with collagenase to surgery.</p><p>Findings:</p><p>Results from a large-scale study of the surgical management of DD in Europe indicate that most DD diagnoses and referrals are made by general practitioners, but there is much inter-country variation. Different patient-and physician-based factors affect diagnosis rates and referral pathways. Different healthcare systems and regulations are also influential. A simple management algorithm is provided herein and explained.</p><p>Conclusion:</p><p>It is important for generalists to understand the natural history of DD and the potential benefits of early referral and treatment. General practitioners should diagnose and/or refer patients with DD to a specialist as early as possible to optimise disease management and treatment outcomes.</p>