Search

Increasing evidence suggests that napping is associated with cognitive impairment and dementia, but the conclusions are inconsistent. Moreover, the extent of the risk is uncertain. We therefore conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify the connection between napping and cognitive impairment. We performed a systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for studies that were published up to June 2023, and assessed associations between napping and cognitive impairment. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated as the effect sizes for all studies. Heterogeneity and potential publication biases were assessed. A total of 4535 papers were retrieved, with 20 reports assessing the relationships between napping and cognitive impairment. Pooled analysis indicated that napping was associated with dementia (OR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.07−1.21). Importantly, we found that those napping longer than 30, 45, and 60 min/day were 35%, 41%, and 40%, respectively, more likely to have an increased risk of cognitive impairment (30 min: OR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.24−1.48; 45 min: OR = 1.41; 95% CI: 1.27−1.58; 60 min: OR = 1.40; 95% CI: 1.26−1.56). North America and Europe showed that associations existed between napping and cognitive impairment (North America: OR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.04−1.27; Europe: OR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.08−1.18). This meta-analysis indicated associations between long napping durations and cognitive impairment or dementia, suggesting that longer napping might be a potential risk factor of adverse cognitive outcomes. • Meta-analyses of studies relating napping and cognitive impairment. • Longer daytime napping was associated with cognitive impairment. • Links between napping and cognitive impairment varied by region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The location of logistics facilities significantly affects not only the activities of urban goods movement, but also the urban environment as these facilities represent major originators and receivers of freight. Recently, the phenomenon of logistics sprawl, i.e. the relocation of logistics facilities away from inner urban areas to suburban areas has received an increasing level of attention from both academics and policy makers. In this paper, a literature review of the various impacts of logistics sprawl is provided with a detailed taxonomy of the impacts. It has been observed that logistics sprawl contributed changes in geography of urban freight, increasing trucks' travelled distance and consequent emissions and impacting the commuting of logistics employment. The paper presents a summary of the empirical findings illustrating the additional distance trucks travel due to logistics sprawl in several European and North American cities. Furthermore, the paper provides an overview of the measures and policies implemented in various metropolitan areas to reintegrate small-scale logistics facilities within inner urban areas to act as consolidation centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along the last century there has been an unprecedented growth in both global food production and related socioecological impacts. The objective of this paper is to analyse the effects of long-term metabolic patterns of agrarian systems on land use and cover changes (LUCC). We have developed an Energy-Landscape Integrated Analysis (ELIA) of agroecosystems to measure the energy storage (E) and the information (I) represented by the complexity of internal energy cycles, in order to correlate both with the energy imprint in the landscape functional-structure (L) that sustains biodiversity. ELIA values are used to assess the agro-ecological landscape transitions in different case studies analysed in North America (Canada and USA) and Europe (Austria and Spain), demonstrating their sensitivity and robustness for case study comparisons on farm-driven environmental change. The results show two stages of the socio-metabolic transition: a first period (from 1830 to 1956) characterized by a non-significant decrease in energy reinvestment (E) and a decrease in energy redistribution (I); and a second period (from 1956 to 2000) with a significant loss of E·I optimal values and associated landscape patterns (L). To overcome the socioecological degradation that these trends implied requires a low external input strategy based on an innovative enhancement of cultural knowledge kept by rural populations, which may help to empower farm communities in the markets and in the public arena. Further research could help to reveal how and why different strategies of agroecosystem management lead to key turning points in the relationship between energy flows, landscape functioning and biodiversity. This research will be very useful for public policies aimed to promote more climate and socioecological resilience of agricultural landscapes and food systems worldwide. Unlabelled Image • An Energy-Landscape Integrated Analysis (ELIA) of agroecosystems is proposed. • ELIA relies on the complexity of internal energy cycles and land-use heterogeneity. • ELIA measures the energy reinvested, redistributed and imprinted in the landscape. • ELIA is used to assess long-term socioecological transitions in western agriculture. • Results recommend a low external inputs strategy for agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Most of research has been conducted in Europe and North America. • Animal ecology and dead wood were most often studied topics. • Fusion of ALS and optical images was advantageous for tree species assessment. • Central tendency and dispersion were the most important ALS metrics. The role of forests in biodiversity assessment and planning is substantial as these ecosystems support approximately 80% of the world's terrestrial biodiversity. Forests provide food, shelter, and nesting environments for numerous species, and deliver multiple ecosystem services. It has been widely recognised that forest vegetation structure and its complexity influence local variations in biodiversity. As forests are facing threats globally caused by human activities, there is a need to map the biodiversity of these ecosystems. The main objective of this review was to summarise the use of airborne laser scanning (ALS) data in biodiversity-related assessment of forests. We draw attention to topics related to animal ecology, structural diversity, dead wood, fragmentation and forest habitat classification. After conducting a thorough literature search, we categorised scientific articles based on their topics, which served as the basis for the section division in this paper. The majority of the research was found to be conducted in Europe and North America, only a small fraction of the study areas was located elsewhere. Topics that have received the most attention were related to animal ecology (namely richness and diversity of forest fauna), assessment of dead trees and tree species diversity measures. Not all studies used ALS data only, as it were often fused with other remote sensing data – especially with aerial or satellite images. The fusion of spectral information from optical images and the structural information provided by ALS was highly advantageous in studies where tree species were considered. Relevant ALS variables were found to be case-specific, so variables varied widely between forest biodiversity studies. We found that there was a lack of research in geographical areas and forest types other than temperate and boreal forests. Also, topics that considered functional diversity, community composition and the effect of spatial resolution at which ALS data and field information are linked, were covered to much lesser extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Nordmøre Grid developed more than twenty years ago has significantly reduced finfish bycatch in the northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) fishery in Europe and North America. However, the grid does not reduce the catch of small shrimp and juvenile fish that are able to pass through the spaces between grid bars. A comprehensive project was initiated to reduce finfish discards and small shrimp in the Gulf of Maine northern shrimp fishery. The project designed, tested, and optimized a size-sorting grid (He and Balzano, 2012a,b) and a radically modified Nordmøre-style grid (the Rope Grid, He and Balzano, 2011). These previous papers reported the results of the separate designs (either size-sorting grid or the Rope Grid). This paper reports performance of a combination grid in a shrimp trawl consisting of a 9mm spacing size-sorting grid and a Rope Grid. The combination grid (9Rope) reduced both small shrimp and finfish bycatch when compared to a regular Nordmøre Grid (RNG). The new combination grid reduced finfish bycatch by 33%, with a small reduction of targeted shrimp catch (12%). The finfish reduction was length-related for three of the above four species with greater reductions for larger individuals. The combination grid is practical to handle and has potential for commercial use in the northern shrimp fishery in Gulf of Maine and other regions where similar target and bycatch species are mixed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objectives: In the last decade, repair of restorations has become more and more popular while teaching repair of restorations is now included in most universities in Europe and North America. The aim of this paper was therefore to systematically review the clinical and the in vitro aspects of repair of restorations by considering different restorative materials – resin-based composites, amalgam, glass-ionomer cements, ceramics or metals. The paper gives also an overview of the occurrences of teaching repair in different universities. Furthermore, the paper outlines criteria for decision making when to treat a defect restoration with refurbishment, repair, replacement or no treatment. Data: The database search strategy for resin based composite restoration repair (n =360) and the following hand search (n =95) retrieved 455 potentially eligible studies. After de-duplication, 260 records were examined by the titles and abstracts. 154 studies were excluded and 106 articles were assessed for eligibility by analyzing the full texts. Following the same search and selection process, 42 studies for amalgam repair, 51 studies for cast, inlay or porcelain restoration repair and 8 studies for teaching were assessed for eligibility by analysis of the full texts. Sources: Following databases were analyzed: Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIOSIS and PUBMED. Study selection: Papers were selected if they met the following criteria: replacement, refurbishment or repair of resin composite restorations or amalgam restorations or inlay, cast restoration or porcelain repair. Clinical studies, in vitro studies and reports about teaching were included. Conclusions: Repair of restoration is a valuable method to improve the quality of restorations and is accepted, practiced and taught in many universities. However, there is a need for methodologically sound randomized controlled long-term clinical trials to be able to give an evidence based recommendation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper highlights the similarities and differences in how emission inventories and datasets were developed and processed across North America and Europe for the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative (AQMEII) project and then characterizes the emissions for the two domains. We focus specifically on the creation of “model-ready” gridded emission datasets for 2006 across the two continental study domains. The practice of creating and processing the two inventories is discussed with a focus on emission factors, spatial allocation, temporal variability, speciation of PM and VOCs, and the mechanics of distributing the data and supporting emission algorithms to the modeling community. The spatial and temporal distribution on common scales is compared for the pollutants of primary concern: NOx, VOCs, SO2, PM2.5, CO, and NH3. Because of differences of population distribution, emissions across North America tend to be more heterogeneous in spatial coverage than in Europe. The temporal patterns in the estimated emissions are largely the result of assumptions used to characterize human activity, with the exception of “natural” emissions, which are modulated by meteorological variability, and emissions from large electric generating units in the U.S., which have the benefit of continuous emission monitors that provide hourly resolved profiles. Emission estimates in both study domains are challenged by several important but poorly characterized emission source sectors, notably road dust, agricultural operations, biomass burning, and road transport. Finally, this paper provides insight on the strengths and weaknesses of emission inventory preparation practices on both continents. One important outcome of this comparison of 2006 emissions between Europe and North America is the greater understanding provided into how the emission estimates developed for the AQMEII project impact regional air quality model performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A key environmental concern is pollution loads released from human activity, since excessive pollutant loads can cause significant public health and/or environmental impacts. A principal objective of environmental regulation is therefore to minimise pollutant releases. The most common approach to assessing and monitoring pollutant loads is through pollutant release databases, with such systems now operating throughout Europe, North America and Australia. This paper has compiled and analysed an extensive data set on Australian coal mining and associated pollutant emissions reported through the National Pollutant Inventory (NPI). In Australia, the coal industry has been growing rapidly over recent decades, and this is causing significant community concerns over cumulative environmental impacts. The pollutant loads and intensities from coal mining are analysed in conjunction with production data. The trends identified in this paper provide an important basis to understand the value of pollutant release and transfer registers, such as the NPI, and demonstrate the critical need to integrate such data with ongoing trends in industry and environmental management initiatives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The fossil record is the primary source of data used to study predator-prey interactions in deep time and to evaluate key questions regarding the evolutionary and ecological importance of predation. Here, we review the types of paleontological data used to infer predation in the marine fossil record, discuss strengths and limitations of paleontological lines of evidence used to recognize and evaluate predatory activity, assess the influence of environmental gradients on predation patterns, and review fossil evidence for predator behavior and prey defense. We assembled a predation database from the literature that documents a steady increase in the number of papers on predation since the 1960s. These studies have become increasingly quantitative and have expanded in focus from reporting cases of predation documented by fossils to using the fossil record of predation to test ecological and evolutionary hypotheses. The data on the fossil record of predation amassed so far in the literature primarily come from trace fossils, mostly drill holes and, to a lesser extent, repair scars, derived predominantly from the Cenozoic of Europe and North America. Mollusks are the clade most often studied as prey and inferred predators. We discuss how to distinguish biotic from abiotic damage and predatory from parasitic traces, and how to recognize failed predation. Our data show that identifying the predator is easiest when predator and prey are preserved in the act of predation or when predators were fossilized with their gut contents preserved. However, determining the culprits responsible for bite traces, drill holes, and other types of predation traces can be more problematic. Taphonomic and other factors can distort patterns of predation, but their potential effects can be minimized by careful study design. With the correct identification and quantification of fossilized traces of predation, ecological trends in predator-prey interactions may be discerned along environmental gradients in water depth, habitat, and oxygen and nutrient availability. However, so far, these trends have not been explored adequately for the fossil record. We also review the effects of climate change and ocean acidification on predator-prey interactions, but, again, few studies consider those factors from a deep-time perspective. Finally, fossils have been used successfully to infer the behavior of ancient predators and identify and interpret active and passive defense strategies employed by their prey. The marine fossil record of predation has become a major field of research over the last 50 years, but many critical gaps remain in our understanding of the evolutionary history of predator-prey interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lightweight steel framed systems (LWS) are innovative construction systems whose application has been steadily increasing over the years thanks to the huge benefits in terms of structural and environmental efficiency. Typical LWS products are usually combined with gypsum, wood and cement-based panels and can be used to build both structural and non-structural systems. After a brief description of the most common LWS constructional systems, this paper provides a state-of-the-art review of their behaviour under seismic actions. In particular, the main past and ongoing research works on lightweight steel framed structural and non-structural systems are briefly summarized and a critical comparison among seismic codes available in North America, Europe and Oceania is presented. Finally, an overview of studies carried out at the University of Naples "Federico II", Italy, on this topic is presented together with the shaking table tests carried out recently on both LWS structural and non-structural architectural systems. • Description of the most common LWS structural and non-structural constructional systems is given. • Key issues concerning the seismic behaviour of both LWS seismic resistant and non-structural systems are briefly stated. • Main past and ongoing researches on LWS framed systems are briefly summarized. • A critical comparison among seismic codes available in North America, Europe and Oceania is presented. • An overview of recent studies on LWS framed systems carried out at the University of Naples Federico II is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we attempt to address the challenging problem of counting built-structures in the satellite imagery. Building density is a more accurate estimate of the population density, urban area expansion and its impact on the environment, than the built-up area segmentation. However, building shape variances, overlapping boundaries, and variant densities make this a complex task. To tackle this difficult problem, we propose a deep learning based regression technique for counting built-structures in satellite imagery. Our proposed framework intelligently combines features from different regions of satellite image using attention based re-weighting techniques. Multiple parallel convolutional networks are designed to capture information at different granulates. These features are combined into the FusionNet which is trained to weigh features from different granularity differently, allowing us to predict a precise building count. To train and evaluate the proposed method, we put forward a new large-scale and challenging built-structure-count dataset. Our dataset is constructed by collecting satellite imagery from diverse geographical areas (planes, urban centers, deserts, etc.,) across the globe (Asia, Europe, North America, and Africa) and captures the wide density of built structures. Detailed experimental results and analysis validate the proposed technique. FusionNet has Mean Absolute Error of 3.65 and R-squared measure of 88% over the testing data. Finally, we perform the test on the 274.3 × 10 3 m 2 of the unseen region, with the error of 19 buildings off the 656 buildings in that area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The field of quantitative palaeoclimatology has made significant progress in the past decades. However, this progress has been spatially heterogeneous and strong discrepancies – both in terms of quality and density – exist between Europe and North America and the rest of the world. The need to balance this distribution of quantified records has never been stronger, and improving our understanding of past global climate is urgent in order to better evaluate and employ the predictions of climate models. In this paper, it is argued that this gap can be reduced by applying the climate reconstruction method CREST (Climate REconstruction SofTware) calibrated using the open-access GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility) database, which contains hundreds of thousands modern distributions of numerous bio-indicator proxies (e.g. pollen, chironomids, foraminifers, etc.). Using the taxonomical diversity of the GBIF database, CREST can be used to reconstruct various climate and/or environmental parameters from assemblage variety of different records. Independent from the usual reconstruction techniques using surface samples for calibration, the CREST/GBIF framework can also be used as an independent tool that can be easily and efficiently applied (1) to complete the global coverage of climate reconstructions, as exemplified with a precipitation reconstruction from Lake Van, Turkey, (2) to revisit existing data sets to obtain new quantitative reconstructions, and (3) to evaluate and/or refine reconstructions based on other methods. The application of this tool promises to foster advances in our understanding of the past climate variability of the Earth system at a global scale. Highlights • A new, globally applicable probabilistic tool to quantitively reconstruct past climates. • The calibration dataset contains the distributions of multiple palaeoclimatic bio-indicators. • Understudied regions can now be explored using the CREST/GBIF framework. • A dedicated software exists to facilitate the use of the CREST/GBIF framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Urban sprawl (dispersed urban development) has increased at alarming rates in Europe and North America over the last 50 years. Quantitative data are urgently needed in monitoring systems for sustainable development. However, there is a lack of reliable measures of urban sprawl that take into account the spatial configuration of the urban areas (not just total amount). This paper introduces four new measures of urban sprawl: degree of urban dispersion (DIS), total sprawl (TS), degree of urban permeation of the landscape (UP), and sprawl per capita (SPC). They characterize urban sprawl from a geometric point of view. The measures are related through TS = DIS ×urban area, UP = TS/size of the landscape studied, and SPC = TS/number of inhabitants. The paper investigates the properties of the new measures systematically using 13 suitability criteria which were derived from a clear definition of urban sprawl as discussed in a previous paper. The scale of analysis is specified by the so-called horizon of perception. Second, the new measures are applied to three examples from Switzerland. Subsequently, the measures are briefly compared to other measures of urban sprawl from the literature. We demonstrate that UP is an intensive and area-proportionately additive measure and is suitable for comparing urban sprawl among regions of differing size, while SPC is most appropriate when comparing sprawl in relation to human population density. The paper also provides practical advice for calculating the new measures. We conclude that the new method is more suitable than previous methods to quantify the indicator “urban sprawl” in monitoring systems as this method distinguishes the phenomenon of urban sprawl from its various causes and consequences. This article is part II of a set of two papers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents results from a survey of stakeholder attitudes towards Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). The survey is the first to make a global comparison across three major regions: North America, Japan, and Europe. It is based on a 30-question survey which targeted individuals working at stakeholder organizations that seek to shape, and will need to respond to, policy on CCS, including electric utilities, oil and gas companies, CO2-intensive industries and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The paper reports results from the original survey carried out in 2006 and from a recent follow up on key CCS questions (April 2009). The results show generally small differences across the regions and between the different groups of stakeholders. All believed that the challenge of significant reductions in emissions using only current technologies was severe. There was a widespread belief that CCS as well as renewable technologies such as solar power will achieve major market entry into the electricity sector within the next 10–20 years, whereas there is more scepticism about the role of hydrogen and especially nuclear fusion in the next 50 years. All groups were generally positive towards renewable energy. Yet, there were some notable areas of disagreement in the responses, for example, as expected, NGOs considered the threat of climate change to be more serious than the other groups. North American respondents were more likely to downplay the threat compared to those of the other regions. The Japanese were more concerned about the burden that would be placed on industry in the coming decade as a result of emissions constraints and NGOs were more likely to believe that the burden imposed would be light or very light. NGO respondents also believed CCS to be far more attractive than nuclear power (fission) but much less than renewables. As expected, the risk for leakage from reservoirs was ranked number one of the risk options given. The follow-up study generally confirmed the results of the original study with a few notable differences. As expected, the results of the follow-up shows that respondents consider CCS to play an increased role in the national climate debate. In Japan, there was an increased fraction of respondents who claimed that their organization has a clear position on CCS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Throughout human history, livestock producers have relied on a vibrant international exchange of genetic resources to achieve improvements in the quality and productivity of their animals. In recent years, however, some observers have argued that changes in the legal, technological, and economic environment now imply that international exchanges of animal genetic resources (AnGR) systematically benefit rich countries at the expense of poor countries. It is argued that international flows of AnGR are displacing the indigenous animal genetic resources of developing countries, and also that the genetic wealth of the developing world is being expropriated by rich countries. In reaction, there have been growing calls for limitations and/or barriers to the exchange of animal genetic resources. These discussions, however, seem to be based on limited information about the magnitude and direction of current trade flows in AnGR. This paper offers an analysis of AnGR trade flows from 1990 to 2005. The paper draws on national-level data from 150 countries that reported information to the United Nations Statistics Division. Three major trade categories were evaluated: live cattle and pigs for breeding, and cattle semen. Over the period studied, Europe and North America were the primary exporters of genetic resources for the species evaluated. OECD countries accounted for 98.7, 92.5, and 95% of cattle semen, live cattle, and swine exports in 2005, respectively. In evaluating the direction of trade between developed (North) and developing (South) countries, North–North trade had the largest magnitude, followed by North–South, South–South, and South–North. The data do not support the notion that Southern genetic resources are being used on a large scale in the North. We believe that importation from South to North is limited by the vast discrepancies in production efficiency and production systems between countries in the North and South. Given the low volume of South–North exchange, it seems doubtful that sufficient revenues could be acquired through a “benefit-sharing mechanism” to have any substantial impact on in situ or ex situ conservation efforts, or to generate benefits for poor livestock keepers in developing countries. We question whether global agreements or restrictions on trade will achieve the desired goal of conserving rare breeds and threatened genetic resources. We also doubt whether these agreements will succeed in improving the well-being of the poor. We suggest that resources instead be urgently employed for conservation and that more direct measures should be taken to aid poor farmers, ranchers, and herders in their efforts to conserve genetic resources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) projects are characterized by a large variation in requirements and work routines. Therefore, it is difficult to develop and implement information systems to support projects. To address these challenges, this paper presents a project-centric research and development methodology that combines ethnographic observation of practitioners working in local project organizations to understand their local requirements and the iterative improvement of information systems directly on projects in small action research implementation cycles. The paper shows the practical feasibility of the theoretical methodology using cases from AEC projects in North America and Europe. The cases provide evidence that ethnographic–action research is well suited to support the development and implementation of information systems. In particular, the paper shows that the method enabled researchers on the cases to identify specific problems on AEC projects and, additionally, helped these researchers to adapt information systems accordingly in close collaboration with the practitioners working on these projects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Since the inception of modern urban planning in the early 20th century, numerous urban planning policies have been introduced that seek to steer urban form towards desired patterns. Some have explicitly focused on promoting energy efficient urban forms to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to sustainable urban metabolism. Despite the proliferation of such policies, ‘unsustainable’ trends, such as urban sprawl and long distance car-based commuting, continue and in some cases are worsening. In this paper, we aim to explore the limited success of a number of influential urban planning policies in Europe and North America in trying to steer urban form towards a more sustainable path. Our aim is to identify their potential common shortcomings and suggest a number of principles which may help formulating more effective policy packages for sustainable urban metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present systematic review is to investigate the role of both classroom and school ethnic diversity, a structural aspect of interethnic relationships, in relation to bullying and victimization. Several moderators of this association have been analyzed: country or area of data collection, how ethnicity is operationalized and computed, and participants' school level. A systematic literature search on Scopus, Web of Science and Eric databases was conducted in January 2021; 4496 articles were identified and a final set of 20 papers have been selected. Almost half of the analyses did not find any significant association between bullying perpetration and ethnic diversity, while the other half found a positive one; few studies found a positive association between ethnic diversity and victimization. Operationalization of ethnicity and area of data collection play a role for both bullying perpetration and victimization. In North America, focusing on race, ethnic diversity has shown a protective role for victimization; in Europe, where the focus is on immigrant backgrounds, diversity may constitute a risk factor. About victimization, ethnic diversity represents a risk factor at younger ages and turns into a more protective factor in secondary schools. Results are discussed in terms of practical implications across development. • Ethnic diversity (ED) may affect rates of bullying and victimization. • In North America, focused on race, ED may be a protective factor for victimization. • In Europe, focused on immigrant background, ED may be a risk factor for bullying. • Developmental trends emerged, suggesting early interventions to promote inclusion. • Ethnic diversity at the school level is a protective factor for victimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the public content on the websites of targeted universities in North America and English speaking-Europe to examine their commitment to education in sustainable transportation. Analyzing about 5000 shows that most of them were worth three credits, more sustainable transportation courses were offered to graduate students than to undergraduates, lecturing was the most common teaching method, and, on average, North American universities offered more sustainable transport courses than did their European counterparts. Finally, the environmental issue was emphasized and discussed far more than the economic and social issues in the sustainable transport context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Europe, North America, Australia and other individual countries have certification and testing procedures for solar thermal equipment designed to support innovation and product development and to protect consumers from poor performance and unsafe designs. For the first time, as a result of the international coll aboration under the IEA-SHC Task 43 umbrella and the working groups of Solar Keymark Network, SRCC, ISO/TC180 and CEN/TC312, it has been possible to develop a common international standard draft for solar thermal collector testing. This paper describes in detail the new ISO/DIS 9806 standard and the relevant topics which clarify and refine existing test procedures or extend their scope: including solar air heating collector testing and tracking/concentrating collector testing. The new ISO/DIS 9806 standard opens the door to a global certification scheme for solar thermal collectors, thereby helping to overcome problems resulting from many different regional certification schemes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The development of inland freight distribution systems has been an active strategy to promote the hinterland of maritime gateways around the world. While differences can be observed among North-American and European hinterlands, the setting and development of rail-based dry ports in those regions come in many forms and shapes. This paper demonstrates that the observed similarities and differences are the result of the regional and local governance and regulatory settings, the types and strategies of stakeholders involved, the spatial and functional relations with adjacent and or distant gateway ports, the dynamics in logistics network configurations, the specific competitive setting (i.e. competition with trucking and barges in Europe) and the imperatives in rail operations. In spite of the technical similarities brought by intermodalism, European and North American dry ports are functionally two of a kind since they play different roles within their respective transport and supply chains. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Conventional transit generally does not cater for the large number of local, diffuse and inter-suburban trips in urban areas, which are made almost exclusively by car. It is clear that new paradigms of local transportation are required, responsive to the diverse travel needs, pervasive and frequent. European and North American cities do not have effective models for such mobility services, and the regulatory frameworks generally form barriers to their introduction. By contrast, there are many cases in Asia, Africa and South America of large-scale paratransit provision. In some they are the primary form of public transport, carrying more people every day than extensive metro systems in Western cities. These paratransit services are never ideal, but this reflects the environment in which the services emerged, the lack of effective regulators, and having to work at the “penny war” end of the market. The constructive aspects of paratransit are usually overlooked, including their organisational capacity, the ability to make self-financing business and the ability to identify and respond to user needs as cities and travel patterns evolve. This paper examines characteristics of such services, presents relevant practice from case studies and concludes with suggestions for transfer of experience to more developed environments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Today, many low cost carriers (LCCs) continue to enjoy rapid growth and still have a fair number of new aircraft on order. There are signs however that the market for LCCs is limited, owing to increasing route density problems, primarily in Europe but seemingly also in North America: the fact that average frequencies have decreased and average route distances increased since 2001 indicate that LCCs are increasingly operating in exceedingly thinner niche markets. This perhaps explains why LCCs have been trying to adapt their business strategies to assure future growth by shifting to primary airports, facilitating transfers, engaging in codesharing, entering alliances, and acquiring other airlines. This paper identifies the possible factors limiting the LCC model''s growth and explains how the largest LCCs in Europe and the US have subsequently reacted. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Danish Eulerian Hemispheric Model (DEHM) is a 3D long-range atmospheric chemistry-transport model with a horizontal domain covering the Northern Hemisphere. For the AQMEII (Air Quality Modelling Evaluation International Initiative) inter-comparison exercise, the model was set up with two two-way nested domains simultaneously – one covering Europe and one covering North America. In this paper, the model configuration used in AQMEII will be described, including a discussion of model results and evaluation for the year 2006 against available measurements in Europe for different chemical species. The evaluation of DEHM for Europe shows that the model gives satisfying results for species such as ozone, nitrogen-dioxide, sulphur-dioxide and secondary inorganic aerosols. The evaluation also points to certain processes where DEHM can be improved, such as biogenic emissions of isoprene, mass closure for particulate matter, wet deposition, and description of vertical mixing during winter. Furthermore, special attention is given to the intercontinental transport of air pollution between North America (NA) and Europe (EU). We estimate the contributions to the total air pollution levels at continental scale from the anthropogenic emissions in the two areas, with a focus on ozone and particulate matter using a tagging method, taking into account the non-linear effects of atmospheric chemistry. We conclude that for this specific year, the intercontinental transport between NA and EU is small for the annual or seasonal mean values – for ozone the contributions are typically around 3% (∼1 ppb) from NA to EU and around 1% (∼0.3 ppb) from EU to NA. For particles the contributions from NA to EU is around 0.9% (∼0.05 μg m−3) and from EU to NA around 1.4% (∼0.05 μg m−3). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Exterior Insulated Finishing System (EIFS) was introduced into China in the early 1980''s. Since then, it has gone through several stages of development and is now enjoying the largest market share among all energy-efficient wall systems. The history of EIFS gradually becoming the most common energy-efficient exterior wall system is briefly reviewed. China has a series of EIFS-related codes and standards that can be divided into two categories: (1) codes and standards on building energy efficiency in general, (2) codes and standards specifically addressing EIFS. This paper reviews these codes and standards with a focus on the important regulations that are different from those in North America and Europe. Chinese EIFS has some features and problems that may or may not exist in its foreign counterparts. These features and problems, along with the underlying reasons, are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Eupatorium perfoliatum L. originates from North America, where it has been widely used since centuries by native Indians. Additionally extracts are used also in Europe as immunostimulating agent for treatment of fever and cold. The following review summarizes published data on phytochemistry, ethnopharmacological use, as well as clinical and preclinical data. Materials and methods: Literature survey was performed via SciFinder® on papers and patents and by systematic research in ethnopharmacological literature at various university libraries. Results: The phytochemical composition of Eupatorium perfoliatum is described in detail for volatile oil, caffeic acid derivatives, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, tannins, polysaccharides. Methods for analytical quality control, as well as specification for relevant lead structures can be deduced from published batch analysis. Preclinical studies indicate anti-inflammatory effects of ethanolic extracts, which can be correlated on a molecular level to eupafolin and sesquiterpen lactones. Antiplasmodial, antioxidative and immunomodulating activities are additionally discussed. Clinical data on the use of Eupatorium perfoliatum do not meet modern GCP requirements, but do indicate positive tendencies for use of ethanolic extracts for treatment of common colds. Conclusion: While the postulated immunostimulating properties of Eupatorium perfoliatum have not been confirmed by in vitro data, animal-studies and in vitro experiments with plant extracts both indicate antiinflammatory effects beside antiplasmodial effect against Plasmodium falciparum. Such an antiinflammation caused by the ethanolic extracts can be correlated well with clinical symptoms related to diseases as common cold, rheumatism, athritis etc. These data also support the plausibility of the plant''s traditional use by the North American indigenous population and early European settlers. In principle quality aspects of the herbal material have to be affirmed by establishing modern pharmacopoeial control methods to guarantee constant and reliable quality. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper examines the forms and effects of vertical relationships between airports and airlines with a focus on the North American and European aviation markets. We find that such vertical relationships enables those participating to achieve various benefits and may be formed as a competitive response to other competing airport–airline alliances. In some cases, vertical airport–airline relationships strengthen the hub status of major airports, leading to increased employment and service quality in local markets. On the other hand, preferential treatment of a particular airline by an airport may enhance that airline’s market power, allowing it to dominate the airport and charge hub premiums. The competition and welfare implications of airport–airline vertical alliances can be complicated and two-sided, subject to the influences of other factors such as the market structures of the airline and airport markets. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Changes in the ocean tide during the 20th century have been reported for several parts of the world by different authors. However, it has not always been clear whether the observed changes have been local or regional in scale. This paper reports on a survey of tidal changes in recent decades using a quasi-global data set of tide gauge information. Little evidence has been found in Europe or the Far East (including Australasia and Asia) for the extensive regional changes to the main tidal constituents reported recently for N America. However, evidence for change in smaller regions can be identified wherever the density of tide gauge information allows. Therefore, it seems that tidal changes may be commonplace around the world, although not necessarily with large spatial scales. All of the reported changes have been difficult to explain. However, it is hoped that quasi-global surveys such as the present one may eventually provide further insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The emergence of inland ports took place in several regions around the world, notably where the growth of inland freight distribution required a massification of flows. Yet, there is no definitive consensus about how such inland facilities should be labeled, with terms such as dry ports being advocated. It is suggested in the paper that the term inland port is a more appropriate construct since it considers terminal activities as well as the crucial logistics activities taking place in co-location or in proximity of inland terminals. This perspective requires the investigation of how transport and supply chain functions and the various actors involved in their setting and operations are taking shape in inland ports. Case studies pertaining to European and North American inland ports are presented. Although inland ports are planned, set and operated by a wide variety of actors, ranging from public to private interests, transport and supply chain functions tend to label them as satellite terminals, load centers or transmodal centers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The global freight distribution system has been impacted by convergence in terms of technology, infrastructure, modes and terminals. Still, in spite of strong converging forces, it can be argued that logistical practices are far from being uniform. This paper analyses the regionalism in freight transport systems by providing a comparative analysis of gateway logistics practices in North America and Europe. It is demonstrated that Europe and North America are not walking the same paths when it comes to the configuration of transport and logistics networks, via operational decisions and the setting of a regulatory framework. The attributes of gateways, corridors, hinterlands, regulation, governance, value chains and labor provide an analytical framework to understand the regionalism of freight distribution in the North American and European contexts, as well as anywhere else. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Limited access to healthcare for vulnerable immigrant children in Europe and North America is increasingly worrisome as immigration policies harden. This paper analyzes the gap between States'' obligations under international human rights law and the disparate local implementations in diverse countries. Studies that are both multidisciplinary and incorporate micro and macro level indicators are needed to reveal discrepancies between entitlements and access. It is argued that the lack of available data on the magnitude of the problem and on its individual and public health consequences stems from the conflicting situation faced by health institutions required to simultaneously protect the best interest of each child and allocate limited resources. Collaboration in research is urgently needed to assist policy-makers and institutions make informed decisions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The reasons why the transmission network is a potentially attractive target for deliberate outages are twofold: (i) its crucial importance as a critical infrastructure for the society welfare, and (ii) its high level of vulnerability due to the current operation close to its static and dynamic limits. This new context where destructive agents come into play has been recognized by several agencies in Europe and North America, and various initiatives have been launched worldwide in order to assess and mitigate the vulnerability of transmission. Within this framework, this paper proposes the reinforcement and expansion of the transmission network as a way of mitigating the impact of increasingly plausible deliberate outages. The network planner selects the new lines to be built accounting not only for economic issues, as traditionally done, but also for the vulnerability of the transmission network against a set of credible intentional outages. The resulting vulnerability- and economic-constrained transmission expansion planning problem is formulated as a mixed-integer linear program. A number of case studies numerically illustrate the tradeoff between economic- and vulnerability-related issues and its impact on the expansion plans. In addition, we compare the results with those achieved by a traditional expansion planning model based on cost minimization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper addresses the design of container liner shipping networks taking into consideration container management issues including empty container repositioning. We examine two typical service networks with different ship sizes: multi-port calling by conventional ship size and hub-and-spoke by mega-ship. The entire solution process is performed in two phases: the service network design and container distribution. A wide variety of numerical experiments are conducted for the Asia–Europe and Asia–North America trade lanes. In most scenarios the multi-port calling is superior in terms of total cost, while the hub-and-spoke is more advantageous in the European trade for a costly shipping company. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study examines the architecture and culture of metropolitan dwelling in Europe and North America in the early 20th century as a model for the future sustainable compact city. While architectural historians usually focus on anti-urban housing models, such as the Garden City and the Siedlung, and thus re-emphasise the avantgardist claim of the housing development ‘from the block to the row’, this study focuses on the supposed intermediary step of the urban perimeter block. By examining contemporary sources, such as architectural journals, reports and conference proceedings, a culture of metropolitan dwelling can be reconstructed. Not only were an extensive number of inner-urban block developments, of high architectural quality, realised during that period, but there was also a controversial discourse, which criticised anti-urban models and propagated a metropolitan way of dwelling. This study aims to emphasise the role of metropolitan dwelling within modern housing, and proposes urbanity as a criterion for reconsidering the development of modern architecture. There was a broad international movement to reform urban blocks and to develop a metropolis which had the advantages of a real city as well as improved conditions for housing. The reformed perimeter block was seen as the appropriate model for the metropolis: an urban block, built up at its edges and thus fronting the street with an urban façade, but also delivering green spaces and light, with a large planted inner courtyard. A huge variety of forms was invented, including spacious courtyards, internal streets, courts oriented towards the surrounding streets, and lower internal buildings, to mention the most obvious examples. First attempts were undertaken in Berlin, with the famous houses by Alfred Messel in the 1890s, in London, with the early inner-urban housing estates by the London County Council around 1900, and in Paris, with the Rothschild Foundation competition for a social housing block at the Rue de Prague in 1905. Soon the model spread out internationally: the 1910 Greater Berlin competition developed several original solutions, Eliel Saarinen designed entire cities according to the new model (1910–18) and in 1917 Hendrik Petrus Berlage built his Amsterdam-South extension based on this idea. The reformed urban block was also widespread and successful in the 1920s and 1930s (perhaps more influential than Siedlungen''s rows or skyscrapers): examples from Berlin (Gutkind), Hamburg (Schumacher), Copenhagen (Boumann, Fisker), Vienna (the Höfe), Paris (the Boulevard Périphérique), Milan (Muzio, de Finetti) and even New York (McKim, Stein) may illustrate its importance. The two main objectives of this paper are to deliver a valuable and successful model for sustainable housing in the metropolis today, by presenting well-tested examples, and to reconsider modern urban design history in the 20th century—placing less emphasis on avantgardist breaks than on continuous development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

As global cities grapple with the increasing challenge of gentrification and displacement, research in public health and urban geography has presented growing evidence about the negative impacts of those unequal urban changes on the health of historically marginalized groups. Yet, to date comprehensive research about the variety of health impacts and their pathways beyond single case sites and through an international comparative approach of different gentrification drivers and manifestations remains scarce. In this paper, we analyze qualitative data on the pathways by which gentrification impacts the health of historically marginalized residents in 14 cities in Europe and North America. We build on 77 interviews with key neighborhood stakeholders. Data analysis indicates four main concurrent processes: Threats to housing and financial security; Socio-cultural displacement; Loss of services and amenities through institutional gentrification; and Increased risks of criminal behavior and compromised public safety. Gentrification is experienced as a chain of physical and emotional community and individual traumas - an overall shock for historically marginalized groups - because of permanent pressures of insecurity, loss, state of displaceability, and the associated exacerbation of socio-environmental disadvantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: While the demand for low-cost air transportation is potentially huge in Asia, development of low-cost carriers (LCCs) lags behind the region''s overall aviation development, and certainly lags behind the LCC development in North America and Europe. It has been noted that market conditions and the regulatory environment of Asia are different from those of North America and Europe. What are the main differences here; and how do these differences impact market entry and success of Asian LCCs? This paper describes salient features of Asian LCCs and their developments. It examines the impact of Asia''s domestic and international airline regulations and airport infrastructure on the performance of its LCCs. We find that the “Southwest effect” may also exist in Asia and that the development of low-cost terminals may compensate, at least partly, the scarcity of secondary airports in the region. The experiences of Thailand and China are investigated as case studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective:: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are tools that urinary incontinence (UI) specialists can use to update and communicate their expertise with other specialists, health authorities and general practitioners to help promote a more uniform approach to the initial management of women with UI. The objective of this paper was to assess available recommendations for the initial management of UI in women from urology organizations in Europe and North America and compare with the recommendation from the International Consultation on Continence (ICI). Methods:: A review of the medical literature was conducted to identify and compare relevant CPGs for the initial management of UI in women. Results:: The European Association of Urology (EAU) and the Spanish National Association of Urology (SNAU) have developed CPGs for the initial management of UI in women, both of which are similar to those developed by the ICI. Differences exist in the pharmaceutical treatment of both stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urge urinary incontinence (UUI). Few treatment options are supported by sufficient scientific evidence to qualify as “A-level” recommendations. Conclusion:: The recommended initial management of UI in women from the EAU and SNAU is in general agreement with that from the ICI, but some treatment options have limited scientific support. Endorsement or simplification accepted by urologists may enhance the credibility of CPGs and promote their adoption by other practitioners without detailed UI experience and improve the quality and consistency of care for women with UI. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In order to adequately handle the huge increase in traffic over the past three decades, most North American and European countries invested enormous funds in building highway networks. Nowadays, most of these networks are complete or close to completion. The biggest challenge highway agencies and departments of transportation face is the maintenance of these networks, keeping them safe and serviceable, with limited funds. The use of consistent measures of safety is fundamental for the development of optimum strategies for bridge maintenance. The analysis of safety on a component basis is a gross approximation of the real system performance of a bridge. In this paper, a model using lifetime functions to evaluate the overall system probability of survival of existing bridges, under maintenance or no maintenance, is proposed. In this model, bridges are modeled as systems of independent and/or correlated components. The proposed model is applied to an existing bridge located in Denver, Colorado, and the optimal maintenance strategy of this bridge is obtained in terms of service life extension and cumulative maintenance cost. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we investigate the determinants of research output by European economics departments. We use data from a survey we conducted on the various characteristics of these departments. We pay particular attention to spillovers from North America to Europe and measure these in terms of visiting arrangements between academic institutions across the Atlantic and formal training received by European faculty in North America. We find strong evidence that European economics departments with North-American links have higher research output. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper compares productive efficiency for 50 major airports in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America by computing gross total factor productivity (TFP), further analysing TFP by regression models, and then computing ‘residual’ TFP after removing the effects of the factors largely beyond managerial control. The results reveal: larger airports are expected to achieve higher gross TFP because of the economies of scale in airport operations, not necessarily because they are more efficient than smaller airports; airports with a larger percentage of international traffic are expected to have lower gross TFP levels; an airport''s ownership structure does not appear to have any statistically significant effect on its productivity performance; airports with higher passenger satisfaction level does not appear to have lower productivity; an airport that diversify and expand their non-aeronautical activities such as concessions and other commercial services are likely to achieve a higher TFP level; airports with capacity constraints are expected to have a higher TFP level although it will impose delays on aircraft and passengers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

After considering the early history of fish as food the paper places fish and fisheries within the context of the second millenium, with particular reference to the impact on European and N. American development. In the 20th century in nutritional terms, fish is seen more as an important source of micro-nutrients, minerals and essential fatty acids than protein. Per capita consumption of fish has risen on a global basis to 15 kg/head/year but projected population growth and mismanaged resources will make this difficult to sustain. Fish consumption, even in limited quantities, has been shown to protect against coronary heart disease and also tends to reduce low birth-weight. After decades of production, growth capture fisheries are levelling off, with future increases likely to come from aquaculture. However, up to 25% of marine catches are discarded and almost 30% is used for the production of fish meal and oil. International trade in fish has risen to US $50 000 million/year, representing 37% of fish for human consumption and tending to stimulate distribution of fresh and value-added products. Sustainable fish supplies for the future will be expected to be safer and traceable to their source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] This paper examines the copper recycling chain - from scrap generation through to metallurgical recovery - in search for current challenges and technological opportunities for improvement. We provide an analysis of global copper flows, showing largely constant amounts of recycled copper and a rise in importance of the complex end-of-life (EoL) scrap compared to the less challenging manufacturing scrap. Source separation of EoL scrap as an answer to waste complexity is examined but dismissed as not viable. A literature review on developments in sorting and separation technology revealed new promising possibilities through sensor-based technologies. However, examples for their use for tasks specific to copper recycling are rare and far from market-ready. Metallurgical recovery of copper has not experienced major developments in the last years. In particular, there is no easy solution for the removal of lead when remelting copper alloys. Interviews with experts from the copper recycling industry revealed that the handling and processing of copper scrap differs widely between companies but also between Europe and North America. While extensive scrap testing and load optimization is common practice for the copper industry in Europe, a discussion on the responsibility for scrap composition and consequently for the burden of scrap analysis is underway between scrap dealers and copper recyclers in North America. Scrap availability and optimization of the recycling chain as a whole are also important topics. A more coordinated optimization approach between actors along the recycling chain could potentially reduce overall costs and increase recovery of copper and its alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With global improvements in life expectancy, one important concern is to understand whether there is reduction in inequalities or greater cross-country convergence in expected length of life at various age thresholds. Insights on convergence patterns can help governments and other stakeholders decide upon health investments across age groups. This paper applies a novel econometric approach to test convergence and identify convergent clubs in life expectancy at various age groups for 201 countries/areas between 1950 and 2015. Life expectancy estimates for 201 countries/areas (1950 and 2015) from United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) World Population Prospects (2015 Revision) are used for the analysis. We find global convergence in life expectancy at birth, but do not observe grand convergence for any other age groups. In the case of life expectancy at younger ages, most countries are moving in the same direction, but significant cross-country variations and convergence clubs are noted for older adults and elderly. Most of the better performing countries/areas are from Western Europe, Northern Europe and North America, the average performers are from South America, Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, South Asia, Central Asia, Eastern Africa, Central Africa, and the Caribbean Islands whereas the poor-performing ones are mainly Western Africa, Southern African and Oceania. In addition, we observe increasing between-country variance in life expectancy for older adults and elderly. The analysis reveals increasing global heterogeneity in the survival experience of older adults and the elderly population which has remained a neglected aspect in the discussions on global life expectancy improvements. Data, research and policy focus on life-expectancy at older ages is therefore critical to accelerate survival gains among older adults and elderly, particularly from the developing world. • Country explains 34% of the variability in life expectancy improvement. • At older ages, there are three life expectancy trajectories a country can be in. • Studying variability is a better metric for capturing life expectancy inequities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Farm level data were used to compare yields of cereals and break crops with wheat. • Wheat was the highest yielding and least variable crop. • All break -crops were more sensitive to low yielding environments than wheat. • Canola was the most consistent broadleaf break crop. • In order to increase species diversity yields need to be improved relative to wheat. Typically dryland rain fed cropping systems in much of the world (Australia, North America, Europe and the Middle East) are dominated by cereals, such as wheat, even though the rotational benefits of other crops are well documented. Presumably farmers see an advantage to wheat and this paper tested the hypothesis that on-farm break-crop yields are lower compared to wheat, and more variable. Farm level yields for wheat, barley, hay, oats, triticale, canola, lupin, chickpea, and field pea were taken from a survey of Western Australian grain farms (180–302 farms per year). In general, the yield of broad leaf crops was less than cereals and more variable. Additional data were sourced from published experiments and then yields were compared with wheat using linear regression with wheat as the x-axis and break crop as the y-axis. All break -crops were more sensitive to low yielding environments than wheat, as indicated by a positive intercept with the x-axis. Barley and wheat yields were closely related (R2 = 0.63), but in environments where yield was less than 1.25 t/ha wheat tended to yield more, while barley out yielded wheat when yields were greater than 1.25 t/ha. There was a poor relationship between either oat grain (R2 = 0.26) or hay (R2 = 0.10) yields and wheat indicating that these maybe potential income diversification options. Canola was the least variable (R2 = 0.54) broadleaf crop compared to wheat, with an intercept of 0.15 t/ha and for every 1 t/ha increase in wheat yield, canola yield increased by 0.56 t/ha. If increased diversity of crop species on-farm is the objective, then varieties and management packages that increase the yield and reliability of broadleaf crops relative to wheat will need to be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common digestive disease in industrialized countries (Europe and North America) and is associated with microscopic changes in the squamous epithelium. However, biopsy is not presently included in the routine diagnostic flow chart of GERD. In contrast, esophageal biopsy is mandatory when diagnosing Barrett''s esophagus. High quality histology reports are necessary to provide information on diagnosis and can also be important for research and epidemiological studies. It has been evident for decades that pathology reports vary between institutions and even within a single institution. Standardization of reporting is the best way to ensure that information necessary for patient management is included in pathology reports. This paper details the histological criteria for diagnosing GERDassociated microscopic esophagitis, other forms of esophagitis with specific features and columnar metaplasia in the lower esophagus (Barrett''s esophagus). It provides a detailed description of appropriate sampling criteria, individual lesions and how they contribute to the histology report. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

No nutrient element is more important than nitrogen in governing thedevelopment of living organisms and in determining the pollution climate of the earth. So far, the processes of enhancing agricultural and forest production and making pollution-control adjustments in the industrial, commercial, agricultural, and transportation systems of society have proceeded in more or less complete isolation from concern about the environmental consequences of human alterations in the nitrogen cycle of the earth. Also, most pollution abatement and mitigation strategies have so far been aimed at resolving one or another particular societal pollution problem in which oxidized and reduced forms of nitrogen play a part. The time has come to consider alternative, more fully integrated strategies and tactics by which to optimize societal efforts to maintain or increase agricultural and forest production while also enhancing the effectiveness and decreasing the cost of abating or mitigating various nitrogen-induced aspects of soil-, air-, and water pollution. In this paper we explore three general ideas: (1) some important similarities and differences in agriculture, forestry, and industry in the Netherlands and North Carolina and what theymean for nitrogen pollution management in our two home societies, (2) justification for adopting a 'total fixed nitrogen approach' ratherthan continuing to deal with oxidized and reduced forms of nitrogen separately, and (3) developing a 'concept of optimum nitrogen management for society'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]