bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acid Resistance and Molecular Characterization of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Different Non‐O157 Shiga Toxin‐Producing E. coli Serogroups
Authors: Kim Gwang‐Hee , Breidt Frederick , Fratamico Pina , Oh Deog‐Hwan
Published: September 2015

The objective of this study was to compare the acid resistance (AR) of non‐O157 Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains belonging to serogroups O26, O45, O103, O104, O111, O121, and O145 with O157:H7 STEC isolated from various sources in 400 mM acetic acid solutions (AAS) at pH 3.2 and 30 °C for 25 min with or without glutamic acid. Furthermore, the molecular subgrouping of the STEC strains was analyzed with the repetitive sequence‐based PCR (rep‐PCR) method using a DiversiLabTM system. Results for a total of 52 strains ranged from 0.31 to 5.45 log reduction CFU/mL in the absence of glutamic acid and 0.02 to 0.33 CFU/mL in the presence of glutamic acid except for B447 (O26:H11), B452 (O45:H2), and B466 (O104:H4) strains. Strains belonging to serogroups O111, O121, and O103 showed higher AR than serotype O157:H7 strains in the absence of glutamic acid. All STEC O157:H7 strains exhibited a comparable DNA pattern with more than 95% similarity in the rep‐PCR results, as did the strains belonging to serogroups O111 and O121. Surprisingly, the DNA pattern of B458 (O103:H2) was similar to that of O157:H7 strains with 82% similarity, and strain B458 strain showed the highest AR to AAS among the O103 strains with 0.44 log reduction CFU/mL without glutamic acid. In conclusion, STEC serotypes isolated from different sources exhibited diverse AR and genetic subtyping patterns. Results indicated that some non‐O157 STEC strains may have higher AR than STEC O157:H7 strains under specific acidic conditions, and the addition of glutamic acid provided enhanced protection against exposure to AAS.
Proteolysis and Flavor Characteristics of Serrano Ham Processed under Different Ripening Temperature Conditions
Authors: del Olmo Ana , Calzada Javier , Gaya Pilar , Nuñez Manuel
Published: September 2015

Physicochemical, proteolysis and sensory characteristics of Serrano hams processed under low, medium and high ripening temperature conditions (RTC), with respective average temperatures of 9.3, 14.3, and 19.1 °C, were determined throughout a 15‐mo period. In addition, quantitative relationships among variables were calculated. Medium and high RTC hams showed lower moisture contents and lower levels of low‐ and high‐ionic‐strength soluble proteins than low RTC hams. At 15 mo, aldolase was the most abundant low‐ionic‐strength soluble protein and actin the most abundant high‐ionic‐strength soluble protein in all hams while creatine kinase was no longer detected and H‐meromyosin was detected only in low and medium RTC hams. Levels of all the molecular‐weight peptide fractions increased during ripening, with higher factors of increase for the fractions of lower molecular weight. Total free amino acids were at significantly higher concentrations in medium and high RTC hams than in low RTC hams from month 7 onwards. The correlations of flavor preference and flavor intensity with ripening time, thermal integral, total free amino acids and most individual free amino acids were highly significant, while raw‐meat taste was negatively correlated with all those variables. From month 5 to month 9 of ripening, development of a high quality flavor evolved more rapidly in medium RTC hams, flavor intensity increased at a faster rate in high RTC hams and raw‐meat taste declined more rapidly in medium and high RTC hams. Medium and high RTC may be applied to accelerate the ripening process of Serrano ham without impairing flavor preference.
Effect of Processed Onions on the Plasma Concentration of Quercetin in Rats and Humans
Authors: Kashino Yasuaki , Murota Kaeko , Matsuda Namiko , Tomotake Muneaki , Hamano Takuya , Mukai Rie , Terao Junji
Published: September 2015

Onion is a major dietary source of the bioactive flavonoid, quercetin. Quercetin aglycone (QA) is exclusively distributed in the onion peel, although quercetin‐4′‐β‐O‐glucoside (Q4′G) is present in both the peel and the bulb, and quercetin‐3,4′‐β‐O‐diglucoside (Q3,4′diG) is present only the bulb. The bioavailability of flavonoids from fruits and vegetables is frequently affected by the manufacturing process and related conditions. The present study aimed to estimate the effect of food processing on the bioavailability of onion QA and its glucosides, Q4′G and Q3,4′diG, provided through the consumption of onion products. Rats were fed onion peel and onion bulb products‐mixed meal or pure QA/Q4′G+Q3,4′diG‐mixed meal at 5 mg QA equivalent/kg body weight. A comparison of the blood plasma concentrations strongly suggested that quercetin glucosides (Q4′G and Q3,4′diG) are superior or at least equal to QA in their bioavailability, when each purified compound is mixed with the meal. The intake of a peel powder‐containing meal provided a significantly higher increase of plasma quercetin concentration than the peel extract, bulb powder, bulb extract, and bulb sauté containing meals at each period tested. A human ingestion study confirmed the superiority of onion peel powder to onion peel extract. The difference of log P for QA between peel powder and peel extract indicated that a food matrix improves the bioavailability of QA in onion peel products. These results demonstrated that the bioavailability of quercetin provided by not the onion bulb but the onion peel is significantly affected by food processing.
A Prospective, Observational Pilot Study of the Use of Urinary Antimicrobial Peptides in Diagnosing Emergency Department Patients With Positive Urine Cultures
Authors: Caterino Jeffrey M. , Hains David S. , Camargo Carlos A. , Quraishi Sadeq A. , Saxena Vijay , Schwaderer Andrew L.
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Urinary tract infection (UTI) often represents a diagnostic challenge in the emergency department (ED) where urine culture results are generally not available and other tests demonstrate limited sensitivity and specificity. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are components of the innate immune system that have demonstrated increased urinary levels in response to infection both in children and in adults with chronic UTI. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between urinary AMP levels and positive urine cultures in adult ED patients with suspected UTI.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational study of adult ED patients with suspected UTI. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were performed to measure urine levels of AMPs: human neutrophil peptides 1–3 (HNP1–3), human α‐defensin 5 (HD5), human beta defensin 2 (hBD‐2), and cathelicidin (LL‐37). Comparisons between positive and negative cultures were performed using Wilcoxon rank sum tests and receiver operating characteristic curves, with calculation of area under the curve (AUC). Data were also analyzed for the older adult subgroup.

Results

Of 40 patients enrolled, 23 (58%) were ≥ 65 years, 25 were female (64%), and seven (17%) were nonwhite. Cultures were positive in 13 (32%), including seven in those ≥ 65 years old. HNP1–3, HD5, and hBD‐2 levels were significantly higher in those with positive than negative urine cultures. Median HNP1–3 was 5.39 ng/mg (interquartile range [IQR] = 2.74 to 11.09) in positive vs. 0.81 ng/mg (IQR = 0.06 to 3.87) in negative cultures. Median HD5 was 4.75 pg/mg (IQR = 1.6 to 22.7) in positive versus 0.00 pg/mg (IQR = 0 to 2.60) in negative cultures, and median hBD‐2 was 0.13 pg/mg (IQR = 0.08 to 0.17) in positive versus 0.02 pg/mg (IQR = 0 to 0.04) in negative cultures (p < 0.05 for all). Findings were similar for adults ≥ 65 years. The AUC was ≥ 0.75 for all three AMPs, both overall and in the older adult subgroup. LL‐37 was not significantly higher in patients with positive urine culture. However, LL‐37 expression is vitamin D dependent, and inadequate serum levels (< 30 ng/mL) were present in 72% of those tested.

Conclusions

Urinary levels of HNP1–3, HD5, and hBD‐2 are significantly greater in the presence of positive urine cultures in ED patients with suspected UTI. These findings are maintained in the high‐risk subgroup of older adults.
Rats quit nicotine for a sweet reward following an extensive history of nicotine use
Authors: Huynh Carmen , Fam Justine , Ahmed Serge H. , Clemens Kelly J.
Published: September 2015

Drug use may be exacerbated in environments which lack alternative means of engaging in rewarding behaviour. When alternative rewards are available, drug use may decrease—an effect that can be harnessed for therapeutic benefit. This idea is particularly well‐supported by recent preclinical evidence demonstrating that a majority of rats will readily choose a potent non‐drug reward over cocaine or heroin. Here we examine whether the same holds true for nicotine, a drug considered to have one of the highest addiction liabilities amongst drugs of abuse. Rats were trained to nose‐poke separately for saccharin or nicotine on alternate days. Using a discrete‐trial, forced‐choice procedure, rats were then allowed to choose between nicotine and saccharin. This was followed by choice testing after a decrease in saccharin concentration (0.2–0%), omission of the fluid reward, an increase in nicotine concentration and following an extended nicotine self‐administration history. All rats demonstrated a clear and immediate preference for saccharin at all times. This was despite variations in reward concentrations, or after an extensive nicotine history. Notably, rats preferred to nose‐poke for water over nicotine and would omit responses when no fluid was delivered, rather than resume responding for nicotine. Overall, this study confirms and extends to nicotine previous research on other drugs of abuse, including cocaine and heroin. The ease with which rats quit nicotine in the present study contrasts with the well‐known difficulty of humans to quit tobacco smoking. Possible factors that could explain this apparent discrepancy are discussed.
Reconciling the Two Disciplines of Organisational Science: A Comparison of Findings from Lab and Field Research
Authors: Vanhove Adam J. , Harms Peter D.
Published: September 2015

A strong preference for field research exists in the organisational sciences. However, it is unclear whether or under what conditions this is warranted. To examine this issue we conducted a second‐order meta‐analysis of 203 lab‐field pairs of meta‐analytic effects representing a diverse range of work‐related relationships. As expected, results showed a larger effect for lab (r = .25) than for field research (r = .14). However, the correspondence between the rank‐order of effect sizes for relationships assessed in lab settings and matched effects assessed in field settings was weaker (r = .61) than previous estimates from related areas of research. Moderators of lab‐field effect size magnitude and rank‐order correspondence were tested. Effect size magnitudes from the lab and field were most similar when lab studies used correlational designs, when using psychological state and trait (as opposed to demographic or workplace characteristic) variables as predictors, and when assessing attitudinal outcomes. Lab–field rank‐order correspondence was strongest when testing psychological state and workplace characteristic predictors and when assessing attitudinal and decisional outcomes. Findings offer recommendations for interpreting primary lab and field effects and inform evaluations of “when” findings from lab and field studies are likely to align.
Repurposing some older drugs that cross the blood–brain barrier and have potential anticancer activity to provide new treatment options for glioblastoma
Authors: Rundle‐Thiele Dayle , Head Richard , Cosgrove Leah , Martin Jennifer H.
Published: September 2015

Glioblastoma is a brain neoplasm with limited 5‐year survival rates. Developments of new treatment regimens that improve patient survival in patients with glioblastoma are needed. It is likely that a number of existing drugs used in other conditions have potential anticancer effects that offer significant survival benefit to glioblastoma patients. Identification of such drugs could provide a novel treatment paradigm.
The relationship between oral and written narratives: A three‐year longitudinal study of narrative cohesion, coherence, and structure
Authors: Pinto Giuliana , Tarchi Christian , Bigozzi Lucia
Published: September 2015

Background

The relationship between oral language and the writing process at early acquisition stages and the ways the former can enhance or limit the latter has not been researched extensively.

Aims

The predictive relationship between kindergarten oral narrative competence and the first‐ and second‐grade written narrative competence was explored in a 3‐year longitudinal study. Among the first and second graders, the relationship between orthographic competence and narrative competence in written productions was also analysed.

Sample

One hundred and nine Italian children participated in this study.

Measures

Kindergarteners produced an oral narrative, whereas the first and second graders produced a written narrative. The oral and written narratives were analysed in terms of cohesion, coherence, and structure. The first‐grade orthographic competence was assessed via a dictation task.

Results

Multiple linear regression and mediational analyses were performed. Kindergarten oral narrative competence affected the first‐ and second‐grade written narrative competence via a mediational effect of orthographic competence.

Conclusion

The results suggest the importance of practicing oral narrative competence in kindergarten and first grade and the value of composition quality independent of orthographic text accuracy.
Identification of the putative binding pocket of valerenic acid on GABAA receptors using docking studies and site‐directed mutagenesis
Authors: Luger D , Poli G , Wieder M , Stadler M , Ke S , Ernst M , Hohaus A , Linder T , Seidel T , Langer T , Khom S , Hering S
Published: September 2015

Background and Purpose

β2/3‐subunit‐selective modulation of GABAA receptors by valerenic acid (VA) is determined by the presence of transmembrane residue β2/3N265. Currently, it is not known whether β2/3N265 is part of VA's binding pocket or is involved in the transduction pathway of VA's action. The aim of this study was to clarify the localization of VA's binding pocket on GABAA receptors.

Experimental Approach

Docking and a structure‐based three‐dimensional pharmacophore were employed to identify candidate amino acid residues that are likely to interact with VA. Selected amino acid residues were mutated, and VA‐induced modulation of the resulting GABAA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes was analysed.

Key Results

A binding pocket for VA at the β+/α− interface encompassing amino acid β3N265 was predicted. Mutational analysis of suggested amino acid residues revealed a complete loss of VA's activity on β3M286W channels as well as significantly decreased efficacy and potency of VA on β3N265S and β3F289S receptors. In addition, reduced efficacy of VA‐induced IGABA enhancement was also observed for α1M235W, β3R269A and β3M286A constructs.

Conclusions and Implications

Our data suggest that amino acid residues β3N265, β3F289, β3M286, β3R269 in the β3 subunit, at or near the etomidate/propofol binding site(s), form part of a VA binding pocket. The identification of the binding pocket for VA is essential for elucidating its pharmacological effects and might also help to develop new selective GABAA receptor ligands.
Two‐year clinical outcomes following non‐surgical mechanical therapy of peri‐implantitis with adjunctive diode laser application
Authors: Mettraux Gérald R. , Sculean Anton , Bürgin Walter B. , Salvi Giovanni E.
Published: September 2015

Background

Non‐surgical mechanical therapy of peri‐implantitis (PI) with/without adjunctive measures yields limited clinical improvements.

Aim

To evaluate the clinical outcomes following non‐surgical mechanical therapy of PI with adjunctive application of a diode laser after an observation period ≥2 years.

Material and methods

At baseline (BL), 15 patients with 23 implants with a sandblasted and acid‐etched (SLA) surface diagnosed with PI were enrolled and treated. PI was defined as presence of probing pocket depths (PPD) ≥5 mm with bleeding on probing (BoP) and/or suppuration and ≥2 threads with bone loss after delivery of the restoration. Implant sites were treated with carbon fiber and metal curettes followed by repeated application of a diode laser 3x for 30 s (settings: 810 nm, 2.5 W, 50 Hz, 10 ms). This procedure was performed at Day 0 (i.e., baseline), 7 and 14. Adjunctive antiseptics or adjunctive systemic antibiotics were not prescribed.

Results

All implants were in function after 2 years. The deepest PPD decreased from 7.5 ± 2.6 mm to 3.6 ± 0.7 mm at buccal (P < 0.0001) and from 7.7 ± 2.1 mm to 3.8 ± 0.9 mm at oral sites (P < 0.0001), respectively. The % of implants with ≥1 site with BoP decreased from 100% at BL to 43% after 2 years (P = 0.0002). The % of implants with suppuration decreased from 87% at BL to 0% after 2 years (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Non‐surgical mechanical therapy of PI with adjunctive repeated application of a diode laser yielded significant clinical improvements after an observation period of at least 2 years.
Full‐arch implant fixed prostheses: a comparative study on the effect of connection type and impression technique on accuracy of fit
Authors: Papaspyridakos Panos , Hirayama Hiroshi , Chen Chun‐Jung , Ho Chung‐Han , Chronopoulos Vasilios , Weber Hans‐Peter
Published: September 2015

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of connection type and impression technique on the accuracy of fit of implant‐supported fixed complete‐arch dental prostheses (IFCDPs).

Materials and Methods

An edentulous mandibular cast with five implants was fabricated to serve as master cast (control) for both implant‐ and abutment‐level baselines. A titanium one‐piece framework for an IFCDP was milled at abutment level and used for accuracy of fit measurements. Polyether impressions were made using a splinted and non‐splinted technique at the implant and abutment level leading to four test groups, n = 10 each. Hence, four groups of test casts were generated. The impression accuracy was evaluated indirectly by assessing the fit of the IFCDP framework on the generated casts of the test groups, clinically and radiographically. Additionally, the control and all test casts were digitized with a high‐resolution reference scanner (IScan D103i, Imetric, Courgenay, Switzerland) and standard tessellation language datasets were generated and superimposed. Potential correlations between the clinical accuracy of fit data and the data from the digital scanning were investigated. To compare the accuracy of casts of the test groups versus the control at the implant and abutment level, Fisher's exact test was used.

Results

Of the 10 casts of test group I (implant‐level splint), all 10 presented with accurate clinical fit when the framework was seated on its respective cast, while only five of 10 casts of test group II (implant‐level non‐splint) showed adequate fit. All casts of group III (abutment‐level splint) presented with accurate fit, whereas nine of 10 of the casts of test group IV (abutment‐level non‐splint) were accurate. Significant 3D deviations (P < 0.05) were found between group II and the control. No statistically significant differences were found between groups I, III, and IV compared with the control. Implant connection type (implant level vs. abutment level) and impression technique did affect the 3D accuracy of implant impressions only with the non‐splint technique (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

For one‐piece IFCDPs, the implant‐level splinted impression technique showed to be more accurate than the non‐splinted approach, whereas at the abutment‐level, no difference in the accuracy was found.
Interrelationships between indices of longitudinal movement of the common carotid artery wall and the conventional measures of subclinical arteriosclerosis
Authors: Taivainen S. Helena , Yli‐Ollila Heikki , Juonala Markus , Kähönen Mika , Raitakari Olli T. , Laitinen Tiina M. , Laitinen Tomi P.
Published: September 2015

Our objective was to study the interrelationships between longitudinal movement of the wall of the common carotid artery and the conventional measures of arteriosclerosis in a large and well‐characterized study population. Successful longitudinal movement analyses were performed on 292 subjects. The peak‐to‐peak and retrograde amplitudes of the longitudinal movement were directly correlated with carotid artery distensibility (r = 0·21, P<0·001 and r = 0·23, P<0·001, respectively) and inversely correlated with pulse wave velocity (r = −0·14, P<0·05 and r = −0·17, P<0·01, respectively). All longitudinal motion parameters were independent of brachial flow‐mediated dilatation and intima‐media thickness. Our findings indicate that arterial stiffening modulates longitudinal movement and, therefore, measurement of longitudinal movement can be of value in the assessment of vascular health.
Application of species distribution models to explain and predict the distribution, abundance and assemblage structure of nearshore temperate reef fishes
Authors: Young Mary , Carr Mark H.
Published: September 2015

Aim

The purpose of this study was to create predictive species distribution models (SDMs) for temperate reef‐associated fish species densities and fish assemblage diversity and richness to aid in marine conservation and spatial planning.

Location

California, USA.

Methods

Using generalized additive models, we associated fish species densities and assemblage characteristics with seafloor structure, giant kelp biomass and wave climate and used these associations to predict the distribution and assemblage structure across the study area. We tested the accuracy of these predicted extrapolations using an independent data set. The SDMs were also used to estimate larger scale abundances to compare with other estimates of species abundance (uniform density extrapolation over rocky reef and density extrapolations taking into account variations in geomorphic structure).

Results

The SDMs successfully modelled the species–habitat relationships of seven rocky reef‐associated fish species and showed that species’ densities differed in their relationships with environmental variables. The predictive accuracy of the SDMs ranged from 0.26 to 0.60 (Pearson's r correlation between observed and predicted density values). The SDMs created for the fish assemblage‐level variables had higher prediction accuracies with Pearson's r values of 0.61 for diversity and 0.71 for richness. The comparisons of the different methods for extrapolating species densities over a single marine protected area varied greatly in their abundance estimates with the uniform extrapolation (density values extrapolated evenly over the rocky reef) always estimating much greater abundances. The other two methods, which took into account variation in the geomorphic structure of the reef, provided much lower abundance estimates.

Main conclusions

Species distribution models that combine geomorphic, oceanographic and biogenic habitat variables can reliably predict spatial patterns of species density and assemblage attributes of temperate reef fishes at spatial scales of 50 m. Thus, SDMs show great promise for informing spatial and ecosystem‐based approaches to conservation and fisheries management.
Graced Life After All? Terrorism and Theology on July 22, 2011
Authors: Salomonsen Jone
Published: September 2015

On the afternoon of July 22, 2011, a white Norwegian killed seventy‐seven people in and around Oslo. A majority of those killed where Social Democratic youth, camping on the island of Utøya. Dressed as a Norwegian policeman, Anders Behring Breivik took the ferry over to the island and shot sixty‐nine children with a pistol and a semi‐automatic gun. The weapons were carved with Rune names and dedicated to Thor and Odin, the war gods in Norse mythology. About ninety minutes before the attacks, Breivik had published a 1,500‐page manifesto on the Internet, urging radical nationalists in Europe to defend Christianity by fighting back Islamic migration, multiculturalism, and feminism. I propose to analyze how a new project linking “Christian and pagan” was launched through the Oslo massacres. I also make a distinction between the sacrificial aspects of a bloody massacre, and the non‐bloody acts of love that manifested among surviving youth at Utøya, and ask if these contrary acts express, or at least involve, two radically different ways of doing religion.
The Question of Salvation of Non‐Muslims: The Exegesis of Muhammad Asad
Authors: Duderija Adis
Published: September 2015

This article applies Alan Race's typology of Christian thought in relation to the salvation of non‐Christians to that of the Islamic tradition and uses the exegesis of Muhammad Asad as an example. It argues that Asad's exegesis of the relevant qur'anic verses places him firmly into the pluralist camp as defined by Race.
The last visitation of the plague inSweden: the case ofBräkne‐Hoby in 1710–11
Authors: Schofield Roger
Published: September 2015

In an earlier study of the plague inColyton,Devon, the household distribution of deaths was studied to see whether this provided a method of identifying the causative disease. In this article, a known epidemic of plague in theSwedish parish ofBräkne‐Hoby was studied as a means of testing out the generality of the household distribution of deaths. It was discovered that, in this case, the very heavy mortality was due to two radically different means of spreading the disease, initially the classic bubonic one through the rat flea, and latterly, and somewhat surprisingly, the pneumonic one, through the infection of the inhabitants by their own friends and neighbours.
Recruitment and abnormality incidence of a desert frog assemblage at an Australian copper mine
Authors: Read John L. , Tyler Michael J. , Robinson Michael
Published: September 2015

Metamorphlings of five desert frog species were assessed for morphological abnormalities adjacent to and remote from the Nifty Copper Mine in the Great Sandy Desert of Western Australia. Abnormality rates in the most abundant species Main's Frog (Cyclorana maini) at a remote pond were higher than that recorded in three of the four ponds adjacent to the mine. The overall abnormality rate of 2.5% therefore likely reflects the regional background levels at Nifty, which is lower than background levels at other Australian arid zone sites. Although higher rates of abnormalities were not detected in ponds adjacent to the mine, frog recruitment was inhibited in one brackish mine pond.
Two‐tiered methodology for the assessment and projection of mine vegetation rehabilitation against mine closure restoration goal
Authors: Ngugi Michael R. , Neldner Victor J.
Published: September 2015

Reinstatement of a ‘self‐sustaining native ecosystem’ is an increasingly common revegetation goal for open‐cut mines in Australia. This is usually applied as a regulatory requirement for mine closure, with some mines aiming for a high standard of ‘ecological restoration’. There is a growing appreciation that ecological restoration outcomes of mine rehabilitation are unachievable within the life of a mine and that assessment methodologies are subjective and inadequate to provide the high degree of confidence needed for mine closure. Here we elaborate on the integration of the BioCondition assessment and the Ecosystem Dynamics Simulator (EDS) trajectory methodologies. We also demonstrate an alternative early relinquishment assessment criteria similar to that used for early recruitment of regrowth native vegetation that exhibit structural characteristics of undisturbed native vegetation into remnant status in Queensland. We used ten age cohorts of rehabilitation ranging from three to 22 years at Meandu coal mine, south‐east Queensland. All the sites gained average BioCondition scores ranging from 19 to 44 out of possible score of 65. Growth trajectories indicated decline in species and basal area on all sites in the next three decades as the dense stock of short‐lived acacia species senesce and die. None of the sites are projected to meet self‐sustaining status by 2072, but there is evidence in some of a progression. All the sites except two (K2.3 and SW2) are projected to achieve remnant vegetation status by 2062. Applying the remnant vegetation criteria results in shorter timeframes and robustly evaluates whether sites are progressing towards the self‐sustaining ecosystem mine closure goal.
Widening gap between expectations and practice in Australian minesite rehabilitation
Authors: Lamb David , Erskine Peter D. , Fletcher Andrew
Published: September 2015

The basic methods for rehabilitating degraded land left after mining are reasonably well‐understood and there are examples across Australia of these being currently implemented. But there are many other situations where further research will be needed to achieve rehabilitation objectives. In addition, a number of mines are yet to embark on any sustained program of rehabilitation and there is a disappointing number of cases of mines ceasing operations before rehabilitation is completed leaving sites in a badly degraded state. Overall there appear to be surprisingly few examples in Australia of post‐ mining rehabilitation that has reached a successful conclusion. In part, this may be simply a matter of time and the problem will be resolved as more mines reach the end of their working lives. But there is an apparent trend for mines to be placed into ‘care and maintenance’ or sold to other entities, to avoid the costs of rehabilitation. Thus, we are concerned there is a widening gap between what should be possible and what is being done in practice. We review some of the experiences of rehabilitating post‐mining landscapes in Australia and conclude that problems have arisen because of (i) the inherently difficult task of restoring ecosystems at highly modified mine sites, (ii) institutional and management weaknesses and (iii) loose regulatory frameworks that allow a high level of company self‐regulation. A key problem is that the importance of rehabilitation appears to rank below that of production in the minds of many mine managers and is not accorded the level of priority that the community expects. The scale of the mining industry and its capacity to cause environmental damage means that there is a need to improve the way mine rehabilitation is currently undertaken. We suggest that this might be achieved by improving research programs as well as better institutional and regulatory arrangements. The present situation represents a major ecological and financial risk to the nation as a whole and regulatory authorities need to develop more rigorous approaches to ensure effective rehabilitation standards are achieved.
Key lessons for achieving biodiversity‐sensitive cities and towns
Authors: Ikin Karen , Le Roux Darren S. , Rayner Laura , Villaseñor Nelida R. , Eyles Kathy , Gibbons Philip , Manning Adrian D. , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: September 2015

Australia's urban landscapes offer opportunities to marry socio‐economic and biodiversity conservation objectives. Yet, information is needed on what urban landscape and habitat features are important for wildlife. In this article, we draw together our research from southeastern Australia to describe key lessons for biodiversity‐sensitive cities and towns. Lesson 1: The effects of urbanization on wildlife extend into adjacent habitats. We recommend retaining large, undisturbed areas of habitat away from development, avoiding intensive development adjacent to important conservation areas, prioritizing areas of ecological and social significance, screening light and noise pollution at the urban fringe and around large nature reserves, and planting appropriately provenanced locally native species for public streetscapes, parks and gardens. Lesson 2: Strategic enhancement of urban greenspace offers biodiversity gains. We recommend increasing the total amount of greenspace cover, maintaining ecological structures as habitat islands, using landscaping techniques to minimize risks to human safety, and gardening with low‐flowering native shrubs. Lesson 3: Large old trees need to be managed for long‐term sustainability. We recommend retaining large old trees in new developments, increasing the maximum standing life of urban trees, protecting regenerating areas and planting more seedlings, supplementing habitat features associated with large trees, and ensuring that young trees have space to grow through time. Lesson 4: Education and engagement connects residents with nature and raises awareness. We recommend education programs to enhance opportunities for residents to experience and learn about biodiversity, engaging residents in the establishment and maintenance of wildlife habitat, providing ‘cues to care’, facilitating access to garden plants that benefit wildlife, and encouraging cat containment. These lessons provide an evidence‐base for implementing conservation and management actions to improve the capacity of our cities and towns to support a diverse and abundant biota.
Reflections on agricultural landscape revegetation in south‐eastern Australia: Interview with Martin Driver
Authors: Driver Martin , McDonald Tein
Published: September 2015

One of Australia's leading on‐ground extension officers describes the successes and lessons learned in The Riverina's native revegetation movement over the 20–25 years – but warns of potential failure of current and future Australian revegetation programs if greater funding security is not delivered.
Slashing may have potential for controlling Phragmites australis in long‐inundated parts of a Ramsar‐listed wetland
Authors: Greet Joe , Rees Paul
Published: September 2015

Phragmites or Common Reed (Phragmites australis) is a natural component of many wetlands but can be highly invasive. Phragmites is encroaching into important mudflat habitat areas of the Ramsar‐listed Seaford Wetlands (Melbourne, Victoria), which are critical for migratory birds. We assessed the efficacy of slashing as a means of controlling Phragmites by establishing twelve 5 m × 5 m quadrats within mature Phragmites reed beds and slashing half of them. The response of Phragmites to slashing was highly variable and dependent on the elevation (i.e. subsequent flooding) of the slashed quadrats. Phragmites regrowth was minimal in lower‐lying quadrats which were wholly inundated for several months each of the following two years (to a mean depth of ~22 cm). In contrast, in quadrats of higher elevation, which were mostly only partially or shallowly inundated, Phragmites recovered almost completely within 10 months. In quadrats that were not slashed there was no change in Phragmites cover (i.e. it remained ~100%) irrespective of flooding extent. It is suspected that prolonged flooding above the height of the remaining stubble is necessary to prevent recovery. Thus, slashing may be a successful means of controlling Phragmites when low‐lying areas are targeted and these are subsequently flooded to a sufficient depth (e.g. >20 cm) for at least several months.
A basic overview of multiple sclerosis immunopathology
Authors: Grigoriadis N. , van Pesch V.
Published: September 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a multi‐component disease characterized by inflammation, neurodegeneration and failure of central nervous system (CNS) repair mechanisms. Immune dysregulation appears to originate with dendritic cells (antigen‐presenting cells) which have an activated phenotype in individuals with MS. Dendritic cells migrate across the blood–brain barrier and induce differentiation of memory T cells into pro‐inflammatory T helper 1 (Th1) and Th17 lymphocytes. In turn, induction of macrophage and microglial activation produces other pro‐inflammatory cytokines and oxygen and nitric oxide radicals responsible for the demyelination and axonal loss. Other known mediators of MS pathology include CD8+ T cells and memory B cells within the CNS. Some pathological hallmarks of MS are early axonal degeneration and progressive decline of brain volume in patients with clinically isolated syndromes who progress to clinically definite MS. Many new options to interfere with the course of MS have become available in recent years. To limit inflammatory demyelinating processes and delay disease progression, intervention to control inflammation must begin as early as possible. Each distinct type of immunotherapy (immunomodulation, immunosuppression and immune‐selective intervention – blockade type, sequestering type or depleting type) corresponds to a specific underlying immunopathology of MS.
Overview of the management of relapsing−remitting multiple sclerosis and practical recommendations
Authors: Gallo P. , Van Wijmeersch B.
Published: September 2015

The initial phases of the clinical course of relapsing−remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) are characterized by a mainly inflammatory pathology which gives way to a largely neurodegenerative process as the disease evolves. As all currently available disease‐modifying therapies aim to control inflammation, the window of opportunity for use is early in the disease course, specifically at the time of a clinically isolated syndrome suggestive ofMSor in the early stages of relapsing−remittingMS. Approximately 30% of patients treated with first‐line immunomodulators (interferon‐β or glatiramer acetate) show a suboptimal response during the first 1–2 years and require a switch to an alternative therapy. It is recommended not to wait too long to switch in order to prevent disease progression. Patients with a poor prognosis in particular may require a timely switch to a second‐line agent. Regular monitoring of disease and therapy in patients withMSis essential. In the first year after diagnosis, clinical evaluations (neurological status, symptomatic assessment, patient well‐being) should be performed at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months, and then every 6 months thereafter. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be performed every 6 months in the first year of treatment, and at least once yearly thereafter. A spinal cordMRIshould be performed once yearly in patients presenting spinal symptoms.
Overview of magnetic resonance imaging for management of relapsing−remitting multiple sclerosis in everyday practice
Authors: Oreja‐Guevara C.
Published: September 2015

Although the value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnosis/differential diagnosis of patients with clinically isolated syndromes suggestive of multiple sclerosis (MS) is widely accepted, adoption of MRI into clinical practice to monitor disease evolution remains a work in progress. However, an accumulating body of evidence points to a central role for MRI in managing patients with relapsing−remitting MS along the disease continuum. Routine MRI surveillance provides insight into disease activity that is not evident clinically and this information, in turn, can be used to inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions. In Europe, practical guidelines have been developed to reduce the heterogeneity of imaging (both intracentre and intercentre) and improve the quality of MRI assessment and interpretation. Aimed at the general neurologist, this review explores some of the issues associated with MRI and examines evidence supporting its use for routine monitoring of MS patients in everyday practice.
Quasi‐Nationalisation in the UK Banking Crisis: A Problematic Policy Option
Authors: Henderson Elisa
Published: September 2015

The systemic banking crisis in 2008 led to the quasi‐nationalisation of two UK listed banks: The Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group (National Audit Office, 2010). Using property rights and agency theory as the theoretical frameworks, this paper analyses whether the quasi‐nationalisation of these banks has been successful. It is argued that as a rescue mechanism, quasi‐nationalisation was a positive development. However, questions arise over its effect as an instrument of banking reform. The State's arm's length approach to management represents a lost opportunity to change the culture of profitability over people that contributed to the banking crisis.
Graphical Inference in Geographical Research
Authors: Widen Holly M. , Elsner James B. , Pau Stephanie , Uejio Christopher K.
Published: September 2015

Graphical inference, a process refined by Buja et al., can be a useful tool for geographers as it provides a visual and spatial method to test null hypotheses. The core idea is to generate sample datasets from a null hypothesis to visually compare with the actual dataset. The comparison is performed from a line‐up of graphs where a single graph of the actual data is hidden among multiple graphs of sample data. If the real data is discernible, the null hypothesis can be rejected. Here, we illustrate the utility of graphical inference using examples from climatology, biogeography, and health geography. The examples include inferences about location of the mean, change across space and time, and clustering. We show that graphical inference is a useful technique to answer a broad range of common questions in geographical datasets. This approach is needed to avoid the common pitfalls of “straw man” hypotheses and “p‐hacking” as datasets become increasingly larger and more complex.
Spatio‐Temporal Variations in Stream–Aquifer Interactions Following Construction of Weirs in Korea
Authors: Lee Hyeonju , Koo Min‐Ho , Kim Kisu , Kim Yongcheol
Published: September 2015

The “Four Major Rivers Restoration Project” was conducted to secure sufficient water resources, introduce comprehensive flood control measures, improve water quality, and restore river ecosystems in Korea. As a part of the project, 16 sites were dredged and weirs were installed in the Han, Geum, Yeongsan, and Nakdong Rivers from late 2010 to early 2012. Groundwater data were obtained from 213 groundwater monitoring wells near the four major rivers to analyze the impacts of weir construction on the nearby groundwater flow system. The groundwater level and chemical characteristics were analyzed to investigate how the groundwater flow system and water quality changed following weir construction. Our results show that the groundwater level immediately increased with increased river levels following weir construction. In addition, the hydrologic condition of some rivers upstream of the weirs was changed from gaining to losing streams. Consequently, the direction of groundwater flow changed from perpendicular to parallel to the river, and groundwater downstream of the weir became recharged from the area upstream of the weir. This should affect groundwater quality, which should become similar to the river water; however, this change has not yet been observed. Therefore, both further monitoring of the groundwater quality and further hydrogeochemical analysis are required for quantitative evaluation of the effects of weir construction in the study area.
Immigration, living arrangement and the poverty risk of older adults in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Lih‐Shing , Chou Kee‐Lee
Published: September 2015

Using 2011 census data, this study investigated how living arrangement affects disparities in poverty between older adults (aged 65 and older) who migrated to Hong Kong from Mainland China and those who were born in Hong Kong. Our sample consisted of 29,987 immigrants and 9,398 natives, all of whom were ethnic Chinese and living in Hong Kong at the time of the census. We found higher poverty rates among older immigrants than among natives, a disparity that persisted even after adjusting for living arrangement, human capital characteristics, assimilation‐related variables, household composition and demographic characteristics. We also found that living arrangement moderated the impact of immigrant status on the poverty risk among older adults, and that the impact was due mainly to the number of earners in the household. The implications of our results with respect to poverty among older adults and anti‐poverty measures are discussed.
Religious freedom and gender equality in India
Authors: Mehta Pangri
Published: September 2015

After India gained independence in 1947, the country's leaders promised its diverse constituents citizenship rights that extended across religion, gender, and caste. Distinct from its previous British rule, India's constitutional law guarantees citizens the right to religious freedom and associated cultural practices, and prohibits gender and caste‐based discrimination. However, in ensuring freedom of religion, the constitution also effectively affirms gender inequality through patriarchal religious and cultural practices. This article examines how the constitutional rights of religious freedom and gender equality have been negotiated among each other in contemporary Indian society. I draw upon three landmark Indian Supreme Court cases that navigate the terrain of affirming both women's civic rights and religious freedom. Findings suggest that the Supreme Court is working toward a more inclusive definition of citizenship, particularly one which supports women's civic rights within the context of religious personal law.
Application of nephrostomy tubes with balloon after percutaneous nephrolithotomy: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Su Hongwei , Zhu Yongsheng , Wang Jia , Deng Qingfu , Pei Lijun , Wang Juan
Published: September 2015

Objective

To evaluate the effect of nephrostomy tubing with balloon on postoperative hemorrhage after percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Methods

A total of 284 patients with upper urinary calculi were enrolled for blocked randomization with 71 blocks and block length of 4. The experimental group consisted of 143 patients receiving 14‐Fr silicone tubing with balloon, and the control group consisted of 141 patients receiving 14‐Fr silicone tubing without balloon. One patient in the control group developed intraoperative bleeding as a result of calyceal laceration, and was reassigned to the experimental group receiving nephrostomy tubing with balloon.

Results

Postoperative drop in hemoglobin level at 3 days was significantly less in the experimental group (3.31 ± 2.85 g/L) compared with the control group (5.14 ± 3.43 g/L) (P < 0.001). The duration of gross hematuria, defined by urine with visible light or bright red color (2.73 ± 1.59 days vs 3.55 ± 2.09 days, P < 0.001), and the incidence of postoperative extravasation (22/143 vs 38/141, P < 0.05) for patients in the experimental group (implanted with 14‐Fr silicone tubing with balloon) were significantly lower compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Use of indwelling nephrostomy tubes with balloon after percutaneous nephrolithotomy can reduce blood loss. Further consideration for more widespread adoption of this type of tubing to limit perioperative bleeding complications is warranted.