Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The FoxM1 Transcription Factor Is Required to Maintain Pancreatic β-Cell Mass

The FoxM1 transcription factor is highly expressed in proliferating cells and activates several cell cycle genes, although its requirement appears to be limited to certain tissue types. Embryonic hepatoblast-specific inactivation of Foxm1 results in a dramatic reduction in liver outgrowth and subsequent late gestation lethality, whereas inactivation of Foxm1 in adult liver impairs regeneration after partial hepatectomy. These results prompted us to examine whether FoxM1 functions similarly in embryonic outgrowth of the pancreas and β-cell proliferation in the adult. We found that FoxM1 is highly expressed in embryonic and neonatal endocrine cells, when many of these cells are proliferating. Using a Cre-lox strategy, we generated mice in which Foxm1 was inactivated throughout the developing pancreatic endoderm by embryonic d 15.5 (Foxm1Δpanc). Mice lacking Foxm1 in their entire pancreas were born with normal pancreatic and β-cell mass; however, they displayed a gradual decline in β-cell mass with age. Fail.
Phylogenetic and Systematic Study of the Genus Bombina (Amphibia: Anura: Bombinatoridae): New Insights from Molecular Data

Abstract Phylogenetic relationships and systematics of the eight currently recognized species of the genus Bombina were investigated using four mitochondrial gene fragments (16S rRNA, 12S rRNA, ND4-tRNALEU, and cytochrome b). We prepared two different concatenated datasets: (A) 12S + 16S; and (B) Cytb + ND4-tRNALEU + 12S + 16S. Partition-homogeneity tests indicated that these combined datasets were homogeneous, and phylogenetic analyses (Bayesian inference, maximum parsimony, neighbor-joining and maximum likelihood) were performed on them. All phylogenetic analyses based on combined dataset A recover two major clades within the genus Bombina (although one of them was weakly supported): a clade corresponding to the subgenus Bombina; and another clade corresponding to the subgenus Grobina. The hypothesis that Bombina orientalis was the sister group of Bombina maxima is rejected by our results. Our results support the monophyly of the southwest China taxa and the validity of Bombina lichuanensis as an independent species. Considering the low genetic differences among the southwest taxa, and previous morphological and karyological evidence, we suggest that Bombina microdeladigitora and Bombina fortinuptialis might be reassigned as subspecies of B. maxima.
α, βI, βII, δ, and ε Protein Kinase C Isoforms and Compound Activity in the Sciatic Nerve of Normal and Diabetic Rats

Abstract: Defective protein kinase C (PKC) has been implicated in impaired Na+,K+‐ATPase activity in the sciatic nerve of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats. In the present study, α, βI, βII, γ, δ, and ε isoform‐specific antibodies were used in parallel to the measurement of compound PKC activity for the characterization of PKC distribution and isoform expression in sciatic nerves of normal and diabetic rats. To distinguish isoform expression between the axonal and glial compartments, PKC isoforms were evaluated in nerves subjected to Wallerian degeneration and in a pure primary Schwann cell culture. α, βI, βII, δ, and ε but no γ isoforms were detected in sciatic nerve. Similar immunoreactivity was observed in degenerated nerves 3–4 days after transection except for diminished βI and ε species; in Schwann cell cultures, only α, βII, δ, and ε were detected. In normal nerves, two‐thirds of PKC compound activity was found in the cytosol and 50% of total enzyme activity translocated to the Na+,K+‐ATPase‐enriched membrane fraction with phorbol myristate acetate. Similar redistribution patterns were observed for the immunoreactivity of all isoforms with the exception of δ, which did not translocate to the membrane with phorbol myristate acetate. No abnormality in compound PKC activity, in the immunoreactive intensity, or in the distribution of PKC isoforms could be detected in rat sciatic nerve after 6–12 weeks of diabetes. Thus, defective activation rather than decreased intrinsic PKC activity may occur in diabetic neuropathy.
RESOURCE LIMITATION AND REPRODUCTIVE EFFORT IN A PLANKTONIC ROTIFER

Individuals that live in resource-limited environments are faced with an allocation problem since they generally do not have enough assimilated energy to fuel each of the processes of reproduction, somatic growth, and storage at the physiological maximum rate. Thus, they have to decide on the proportions at which they allocate energy to the various processes. In laboratory experiments and field observations, I found that the common planktonic rotifer Synchaeta pectinata increases the proportion of energy allocated to reproduction (reproductive effort, RE) as food becomes more limited. This change in the allocation scheme along a gradient of food concentrations was inferred from volumetric measurements of egg size and the size of the elliptically shaped ovary. Synchaeta pectinata used the contents of its ovary either for reproduction (increasing the size of the individually and consecutively produced eggs) or for storage (enhancing survival during starvation by resorption of this material). As egg size was.
Long-term persistence of song performance rules in nightingales (Luscinia megarhynchos): a longitudinal field study on repertoire size and composition

Common nightingales (Luscinia megarhynchos) are among those bird species that possess an extremely large repertoire and perform it in a versatile singing style. Thereby, repertoire size, composition, and performance differs considerably among individuals. In this longitudinal field study, we investigated the long-term stability of these differences in the song characteristics of free-ranging nightingales. We determined the repertoire characteristics for nine adult male individuals in two successive years (three of these individuals were investigated over the course of three years) and compared these to similar measurements obtained from comparisons of song samples of different birds. Comparisons revealed remarkable differences among males, but we did not find systematic differences in the song performance of birds in successive years. Instead, song characteristics were remarkably stable within successive years. The long-term persistence of individual song characteristics suggests that they are not related to dynamically changing individual attributes, but may reflect long-term storage of information during song acquisition as juveniles. In addition, we found that the repertoire performance of adult nightingales allows fine-tuned vocal interactions among several neighbouring males.
AKAP12α, an Atypical Serum Response Factor-dependent Target Gene*

We recently identified three AKAP12 isoforms that are differentially regulated by distinct promoters. During a screen to identify molecular determinants distinguishing the activities of these promoters, we found a potential binding site for the serum response factor (SRF) in the promoter of the ubiquitously expressed AKAP12α isoform. SRF is an evolutionarily conserved transcription factor that governs disparate programs of gene expression linked to cellular growth and differentiation. Using a combination of reporter assays and RNA interference, we demonstrate that SRF is required for AKAP12α expression. SRF regulates the activity of the AKAP12α promoter through two conserved CArG boxes that bind SRF with different affinities. Unlike other SRF-dependent genes, AKAP12α is not regulated by growth or differentiation stimuli. Molecular analysis of the AKAP12α SRF-binding sites, or CArG boxes, indicates that sequences flanking these sites are the determinants of sensitivity to SRF-activating signals. Specifically, the AKAP12α CArG boxes are shielded from growth stimulation by the absence of a binding site for Ets transcription factors. Similarly, sensitivity to the differentiation-associated co-factor, myocardin, was also determined by responsive flanking sequence; however, unlike growth stimuli, sensitivity to myocardin was found to also be dependent on a consensus CArG box. Collectively, our data demonstrate that AKAP12α belongs to a novel class of atypical SRF-dependent target genes. Furthermore, we provide new insight into the role of flanking sequences in determining sensitivity to SRF-myocardin activity.
Periodic solutions of a periodic stochastic human immunodeficiency virus model with distributed delay and cytotoxic T lymphocytes immune response

In this paper, a periodic stochastic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) model with distributed delay and cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) immune response is investigated. First, by It ô 's formula, we show that the solution with any positive initial value is global and positive. Then, by the stochastic comparison theorem, we obtain the sufficient conditions guaranteeing the existence and global attractivity of infection‐free periodic solution. Furthermore, we discuss the existence of the infective periodic solution by Has'minskii theory. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the results.
PENGARUH BUDAYA ORGANISASI, QUALITY OF WORK LIFE DAN KEPEMIMPINAN TRANSFORMASIONAL TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of organizational culture, quality of work life and transformational leadership on the performance of employees of PT. Harum Indah Sari (HIS) Bali Tours & Travel. This research was conducted at PT. Harum Indah Sari (HIS) Bali Tours & Travel with a total sample of 93 employees, using the saturated sample method. Data collection was carried out through interviews and questionnaires. Data analysis techniques used are Multiple Linear Regression Analysis and Classical Assumption Test. The results of this study indicate that organizational culture has a positive and significant effect on employee performance, quality of work life has a positive and significant effect on employee performance and transformational leadership has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. The implications of the results of this study theoretically provide an understanding that organizational culture, quality of work life and transformational leadership can significantly improve employee performance.
A Coaching Session Framework to Facilitate Long-Term Athletic Development

The implementation of long-term athletic development (LTAD) aims to improve health, physical activity and performance of all youth. Contemporary LTAD models suggest that a broad range of physical and psycho-social competencies should be developed in youth, but few resources are available for coaches that describe ‘how’ to achieve these outcomes. This paper overviews a coaching session framework called RAMPAGE (Raise, Activate, Mobilise, Prepare, Activity, Games, Evaluate). The framework provides practitioners with information on what can be planned and delivered and when within a coaching session, across multiple ages and stages of development within multiple contexts (e.g., physical education, talent development).
Age-related variation in the nutrient reserves of breeding American Coots (Fulica americana)

We analyzed the relationship between age and nutrient reserves of 186 American Coots, Fulica americana, collected in southern Manitoba during the breeding season in 1981. The first principal component from the correlation matrix of 13 morphological variables was used as the measure of body size. Protein reserves, as indexed by lean dry weight, and fat reserves were related to body size, but the relationship for fat reserves was weak. The oldest coots of each sex were the largest, and this partly explained their larger protein reserves compared with the youngest coots. However, by scaling different sex–age groups to the same body size, we found that older coots had relatively larger protein reserves before breeding than did younger coots. Males and females did not differ in relative protein reserves, but females had relatively more fat reserves than did males. The results also indicated that body size is an important consideration in studies of nutrient reserve dynamics.
Application of a Costing Methodology to Estimate Capital Costs of Solar Thermal Systems in Residential Portuguese Context

The concerns regarding the environmental damage require changes not only on how the energy is consumed but also how it is produced. The close relationship between energy use and the economic growth exposes the need for continuous monitoring of energy consumption, which cannot be achieved without assessing capital and operational costs from its conversion to end-use. Solar thermal systems offer few advantages over other renewable resources to meet the energy demand in the small-scale building sector. Solar-thermal technologies can play a leading role in meeting the decarbonisation targets set in Europe. The reports from the International Energy Agency (IEA) shows that solar heating has the potential to cover more than 16% of the low-temperature heat use in energy mix scenario. In Europe, this share might translate into 45% growth of the installed solar thermal capacity by 2020, setting a challenging target of 1 m2 of collector area installed per capita by 2020 and of 1.3 m2 by 2050. The main objective of the present work is to define a costing methodology able to estimate the capital cost of solar-thermal systems according to the system size and energy requirements of a specific residential building. The costing methodology consists of the derivation of a cost expression for each component by integrating thermodynamic and cost coefficients, adjusted for this kind of technology, and also taking into account real market data. The model was validated for a reference dwelling in Lisbon, with an occupation of 4 people with an estimated energy need of 2 037 kWh/year in terms of DHW. Results of the reference scenario show that is required at least 4 m2 of solar collector and the system cost ranges from 703.2€ per m2 to 763.2€ per m2, depending on the acceptable storage tank capacity.
Animal welfare and gender: a nexus in awareness and preference when choosing fresh beef meat?

Abstract The modern consumer is now more attentive towards animal welfare practices and this represents an important factor when purchasing meat, whereby ethical, sociological and economic implications are evaluated. In addition, the socio-demographic characteristics of consumers evidence different sensitivities with regard to selection patterns and consumption styles. This study aims to explore the role of Gender in beef meat purchasing preferences, assessing consumer awareness of responsibility towards animal welfare, through the use of cross-tabulation with χ2 to test the different behaviour of men and women and the use of principal component analysis and cluster analysis to classify attitudes of choice according to gender. Among the research aims, this study examined consumer attitudes towards certain ‘ethically incorrect’ animal products, as well as their awareness of the institutional responsibility in controlling animal welfare standards during the meat production process. The study conducted in Northwest Italy, involving 512 respondents, shows that women are more sensitive to AW aspects and place trust in those responsible for certification of animal welfare standards, such as veterinarians and consumer associations, and also shows that it is possible to identify an ‘animal welfare sensitive’ profile of meat consumer. HIGHLIGHTS Modern consumer evaluates ethical, sociological and economic implications in animal friendly meat purchasing process Gender affects awareness of the responsibilities of veterinary, public health control bodies and consumer associations to verify animal welfare Cluster highlighted consumer differences in perception towards animal welfare
Genetic variability in charge microheterogeneity and polypeptide composition of phaseolin, the major storage protein of Phaseolus vulgaris; and peptide maps of its three major subunits

Molecular polymorphism of phaseolin, the major storage protein of Phaseolus vulgaris L. , and structural homology of its subunits were investigated. A high degree of charge heterogeneity was evidenced by isoelectric focusing. Comparison among phaseolins isolated from seven different cultivars showed genetic variability both in isoelectric focusing pattern and subunit composition. However tryptic peptide maps of these phaseolins were very similar. The three phaseolin subunits isolated from cultivar Greensleeves were compared by peptide mapping after limited enzymatic digestion and had very similar primary structures.
An assessment of supply-side and demand-side policies in EU-28 household electricty prices

An increase in household electricity prices has been taken place in the European Union in last years, which has been strongly influenced by the regulation component. This paper focuses on an empirical assessment of both supply-side and demand-side policies in the European Union over the period 2000-2015. More specifically, the analysis of the electricity industry liberalisation process and renewable energy support policies (from supply-side), as well as, energy taxes (from demand-side) has been developed in order to contribute to the present debate about the effect of these factors on household electricity prices. The results suggest that the liberalisation process has involved greater household electricity prices. Regarding solar photovoltaic energy support policies, the costs of quota obligation systems seem also to result in greater household electricity prices. However, energy taxes do not have a significant influence on these prices. Based on these results, recommendation actions are proposed for policy-makers.
La reproduction sexuée des Gymnospermes

ResumeL'application des techniques modernes de la cytologie et des cultures in vitro a renouvele l'interet pour la reproduction sexuee des plantes a ovules nus depuis 25 ans. L'ultrastructure, les exigences nutritionelles, la dynamique du developpement des gametophytes mâles ont ete precisees. L'analyse des ultrastructures des gametes et des proembryons a conduit a demontrer l'originalite des Gymnospermes s.s. dont l'heredite cytoplasmique patrocline pour les plastes est la regle dans les cinq familles etudiees: Pinacees, Cupressacees, Taxodiacees, Cephalotaxacees et Taxacees. Il s'y ajoute pour trois d'entr'elles, Cupressacees, Taxodiacees et Cephalotaxacees, une transmission quasi exclusive des mitochondries d'origine mâle. Les recherches actuelles s'orientent sur la pollinisation.
Structure-specific functionality of plant cell wall hydroxycinnamates

Within the plant cell wall, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (ferulic acid) has a clear role in polymer cross-linking. However, why this function appears largely restricted to the monomethoxylated compound and not to other hydroxycinnamates appearing in the wall is less evident. Since radical coupling is the main mechanism by which hydroxycinnamate cross-linking occurs, the ease of parent radical formation and distribution of the unpaired electron were investigated. Ease of oxidation increased with increased substrate methoxylation, as did the amount of positive spin-density residing on the phenolic oxygen. The properties of the dimethoxylated hydroxycinnamate indicated that when esterified to the wall, coupling would result in C-O bond formation. This form of bonding is weaker and more flexible than the C-C bonding which would result from coupling of 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamate and would not be desirable as a cross-link. Although the non-methoxylated compound could also couple via C-C bonds, ESR measurements of phenoxyl radical formation suggested that this compound would not easily participate in coupling reactions.
Effective Use of Sociocultural Data in Fisheries Management: A Case Study

Abstract The F.C. M.A. has mandated the use of socioeconomic data in conjunction with fisheries management. Registration data compiled by state management systems may prove useful to specify patterns in historic participation in regional fisheries and to conceptualize the problem of maintaining equity in access to the fishing grounds. An analysis of state license data for Texas and Louisiana discloses that there has been considerable variation in participation from year to year, not necessarily synchronized with variability in catch. Historic comparisons of lists of state licensees and potential lists of federal licensees could inform the effort of managers to encourage the optimum use of human effort in harvesting fish.
Connecting litter quality, microbial community and nitrogen transfer mechanisms in decomposing litter mixtures

Synergistic effects on decomposition in litter mixtures have been suggested to be due to the transfer of nitrogen from N-rich to N-poor species. However, the dominant pathway and the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. We conducted an experiment to investigate and quantify the control mechanisms for nitrogen transfer between two litter species of contrasting nitrogen status (15N labeled and unlabeled Fagus sylvatica and Fraxinus excelsior) in presence and absence of micro-arthropods. We found that 15N was predominantly transferred actively aboveground by saprotrophic fungi, rather than belowground or passively by leaching. However, litter decomposition remained unaffected by N-dynamics and was poorly affected by micro-arthropods, suggesting that synergistic effects in litter mixtures depend on complex environmental interrelationships. Remarkably, more 15N was transferred from N-poor beech than N-rich ash litter. Moreover, the low transfer of 15N from ash litter was insensitive to destination species whereas the transfer of 15N from labeled beech litter to unlabeled beech was significantly greater than the amount of 15N transferred to unlabeled ash suggesting that processes of nitrogen transfer fundamentally differ between litter species of different nitrogen status. Microbial analyses suggest that nitrogen of N-rich litter is entirely controlled by bacteria that hamper nitrogen capture of microbes in the environment supporting the source-theory. In contrast, nitrogen of N-poor fungal dominated litter is less protected and transferable depending on the nitrogen status and the transfer capacity of the microbial community of the co-occurring litter species supporting the gradient-theory. Thus, our results challenge the traditional view regarding the role of N-rich litter in decomposing litter mixtures. We rather suggest that N-rich litter is only a poor nitrogen source, whereas N-poor litter, can act as an important nitrogen source in litter mixtures. Consequently both absolute and relative differences in initial litter C/N ratios of co-occurring litter species need to be considered for understanding nitrogen dynamics in decomposing litter mixtures.