bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ferrous Find: Counting Iron and Steel Stocks in China's Economy
Authors: Wang Tao , Müller Daniel B. , Hashimoto Seiji
Published: August 2015

A detailed understanding of material stocks in use is essential for anticipating future scrap availability, identifying critical drivers for material use, and developing strategies for resource efficiency. Here, we present a bottom‐up assessment of iron and steel stocks in use in urban and rural China for the years 2000 and 2010, including >250 subcategories of products and components, and grouping them into five main end‐use categories (i.e., buildings, infrastructure, domestic appliances, machinery, and transport equipment). The uncertainty range of the steel content per type of stock, a determinant of the accuracy and usefulness of the stock accounting, is probed by multiple means, including sample analysis. Important findings are that (1) iron and steel stocks in China have climbed to 2.4 tonnes/capita (t/cap) in 2010, up from 0.9 t/cap in 2000. The use of reinforced concrete in construction of the urban built environment was the major driver for stock growth; (2) a rural‐urban difference was uncovered, with rural iron and steel stocks of approximately 1.1 t/cap and the urban iron and steel stocks of approximately 3.7 t/cap in 2010. Both are, nevertheless, far below the level of 10 to 16 t/cap observed in highly industrialized and urbanized countries. For this reason, further stock increase is foreseeable as urbanization and industrialization proceeds and quality of life improves; (3) nearly half of the steel stocks were embedded in concrete structures, and 23% were located in the countryside. Only a fraction of these stocks are currently recovered at end of life.
OTC Clearing Arrangements for Bank Systemic Risk Regulation: A Simulation Approach
Authors: LEWANDOWSKA OLGA
Published: August 2015

Based on a simulation approach, this paper compares different over‐the‐counter (OTC) clearing models regarding their netting efficiency and loss‐concentration implications. The results indicate that the mandatory clearing of all standardized OTC derivatives by a Central Counterparty (CCP) propagated by regulators would significantly decrease systemic risk as compared to existing clearing arrangements only if the multilateral netting benefits of the CCP and loss mutualization are fully attained. Therefore, regulators have to ensure that there is a critical mass of asset classes under mandatory clearing, that broad market participation in the CCP is enabled, and that there is an appropriate client asset protection regime.
Adenosine A2A receptors permit mGluR5‐evoked tyrosine phosphorylation of NR2B (Tyr1472) in rat hippocampus: a possible key mechanism in NMDA receptor modulation
Authors: Sarantis Konstantinos , Tsiamaki Eirini , Kouvaros Stylianos , Papatheodoropoulos Costas , Angelatou Fevronia
Published: August 2015

A great body of evidence points toward a functional interaction between metabotropic glutamate 5 receptors (mGluR5) and NMDA receptors (NMDAR) that enhances synaptic plasticity and cognition. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this interaction remains unclear. Here, we show that co‐activation of mGluR5 and NMDAR in hippocampal slices synergistically leads to a robust phosphorylation of NR2B (Tyr1472), which is Src kinase dependent and is enabled by endogenous adenosine acting on A2A receptors. As it is well known, NR2B (Tyr1472) phosphorylation anchors NR2B‐containing NMDARs to the surface of post‐synaptic membranes, preventing their internalization. This is supported by our electrophysiological experiments showing that co‐activation of mGluR5 and NMDARs robustly enhances NMDAR‐dependent neuronal excitability recorded in CA1 hippocampal region, which temporally coincides with the robust increase in NR2B (Tyr1472) phosphorylation, depends on Src kinases and is also permitted by A2A receptors. Thus, we strongly suggest that NR2B (Tyr1472) phosphorylation constitutes, at least to some extent, the molecular mechanism underlying the mGluR5‐mediated enhancement of NMDAR‐dependent responses, which is modulated by A2A receptors. A better understanding of the molecular basis of mGluR5/NMDAR interaction would elucidate their role in synaptic plasticity processes as well as in pathological conditions.

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We propose the following molecular mechanism by which metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 5 (mGluR5) potentiate ionotropic Glutamate N‐Methyl‐D‐Aspartate Receptor (NMDAR) responses in rat hippocampus. Co‐activation of mGLUR5/NMDAR activates Src kinases, leading to NR2B(Tyr1472) phosphorylation, which anchors NR2B‐containing NMDAR to the plasma membrane, thus inducing a robust increase in the NMDA‐dependent excitability. Interestingly, adenosine A2A receptors license the mGluR5‐induced NR2B(Tyr1472) phosphorylation.
Transferring Conditioned Partially Edentulous Ridge Form to a Master Cast
Authors: Pereira Jefferson Ricardo , Ghizoni Janaina Salomon , de Oliveira Marcelo Tomás , Pamato Saulo
Published: August 2015

Gingival conditioning techniques in prosthodontics aim to overcome bone and soft‐tissue defects that often compromise the outcome of restorations in terms of esthetics, function, and biocompatibility. Whatever the technique used, it is essential to reproduce a regular concave gingival outline in order to recreate the natural aspect of the relationship between teeth and gingiva, eliminating black triangles. Transferring the details of the conditioned soft tissue to the laboratory technician with precision may be challenging. The authors hereby propose a novel technique to transfer the clinical aspect of the conditioned soft tissue to the master cast, using a customized metal framework to help ensure accuracy.
Sequential population study of the impact of earthquakes on the emotional and behavioural well‐being of 4‐year‐olds in Canterbury, New Zealand
Authors: Thomson Janine , Seers Kara , Frampton Chris , Hider Phil , Moor Stephanie
Published: August 2015

Aim

Exposure to a large natural disaster can lead to behavioural disturbances, developmental delay and anxiety among young children. Although most children are resilient, some will develop mental health problems. Major earthquakes occurred in Canterbury, New Zealand, in September 2010 and February 2011. A community screening tool assessing behavioural and emotional problems in children, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, has been reported by parents (SDQ‐P) and teachers (SDQ‐T) of all 4‐year‐olds in the region since 2008.

Methods

Mean total and subtest scores for the SDQ‐P and SDQ‐T were compared across periods before, during and after the earthquakes in sequential population cohorts of children. Comparisons across the periods were made in relation to the proportions of children defined by New Zealand norms as ‘abnormal’. Results were also compared between zones considered to have been exposed to higher or lower impact from the earthquakes.

Results

Parent mean total SDQ scores did not change between periods before, during and after the earthquakes. Teacher mean SDQ total scores significantly reduced (improved) when compared between baseline and post‐earthquake periods. Mean SDQ pro‐social scores from both teachers and parents increased (strengthened) when compared between baseline and post‐earthquake periods. Results did not significantly vary according to a measure of impact from the earthquakes.

Conclusion

The main finding that a population‐based measure of behavioural and emotional problems among children was not deleteriously impacted by the earthquakes is surprising and is not consistent with other research findings. Further work is needed to explore the health needs of children in Canterbury based on methodological improvements.
Dual-functionalized poly(amidoamine) dendrimers with poly(ethylene glycol) conjugation and thiolation improved blood compatibility
Authors: Liu Yuanjie , Pang Yanzhen , Toh Ming R , Chiu Gigi N C
Published: August 2015

Objectives

This study aims to examine the blood compatibility of dual-functionalized poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers.

Methods

The cationic PAMAM dendrimer of generation 4.0 (PM4.0) were functionalized by poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) conjugation or by thiolation or the combination of both methods. Various in-vitro assays including immune cell cytotoxicity, haemoglobin release, serum albumin binding, complement activation and coagulation times were used to characterize the compatibility with blood components.

Key findings

Although thiolation of polymers has been reported as a strategy to reduce platelet activation or aggregation, thiolation of PM4.0 alone did not offer any protective effect against the dendrimer toxicity on blood components or functions. PEGylation was able to reduce the toxic effect and interactions of the unmodified and thiolated PM4.0 on various blood components and functions; yet, PEGylated PM4.0 displayed prolonged prothrombin times and activated partial thromboplastin times. Among various PM4.0 derivatives, dual-functionalized PM4.0 with PEG and thiol groups displayed the least toxicity to various blood components and functions.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested that comprehensive studies of dendrimer biocompatibility should be performed so as to establish the safe dose window for systemic administration.
Balanced Budget Tax Cuts in a Liquidity‐Constrained Economy
Authors: Prasad Vivek
Published: August 2015

This paper modifies the basic model of Kiyotaki and Moore by introducing a government that levies distortionary taxes on wages and dividends, spends exactly its tax revenue and holds money supply constant. Discretionary across the board tax cuts relieve the effects of liquidity constraints that limit investment, and thereby stimulate economic activity in normal times. A discretionary cut in the rate of tax on dividends ameliorates the effects of an exogenous tightening of liquidity constraints, without unnecessary distortions, and is thus an alternative policy to the equity purchase programme proposed by Kiyotaki and Moore.
Inflation Persistence, Price Indexation and Optimal Simple Interest Rate Rules
Authors: Ascari Guido , Branzoli Nicola
Published: August 2015

We study the properties of the optimal interest rate rule under different sources of inflation persistence. In our model, the optimal policy minimizes price dispersion, which depends on the degree of price indexation. When indexation is zero, inflation persistence depends only on the level of trend inflation, the inflation gap is purely forward‐looking and the optimal policy targets inflation stability. Full indexation makes the inflation gap persistent, eliminates the effects of trend inflation and makes the optimal policy target the real interest rate. We compare our results with empirical estimates of the FED's policy in the post‐WWII era.
Core pathways operating during methylotrophy of Bacillus methanolicus MGA3 and induction of a bacillithiol‐dependent detoxification pathway upon formaldehyde stress
Authors: Müller Jonas E. N. , Meyer Fabian , Litsanov Boris , Kiefer Patrick , Vorholt Julia A.
Published: August 2015

Bacillus methanolicus MGA3 is a model facultative methylotroph of interest for fundamental research and biotechnological applications. Previous research uncovered a number of pathways potentially involved in one‐carbon substrate utilization. Here, we applied dynamic 13C labeling to elucidate which of these pathways operate during growth on methanol and to uncover potentially new ones. B. methanolicus MGA3 uses the assimilatory and dissimilatory ribulose monophosphate (RuMP) cycles for conversion of the central but toxic intermediate formaldehyde. Additionally, the operation of two cofactor‐dependent formaldehyde oxidation pathways with distinct roles was revealed. One is dependent on tri‐ and tetraglutamylated tetrahydrofolate (THF) and is involved in formaldehyde oxidation during growth on methanol. A second pathway was discovered that is dependent on bacillithiol, a thiol cofactor present also in other Bacilli where it is known to function in redox‐homeostasis. We show that bacillithiol‐dependent formaldehyde oxidation is activated upon an upshift in formaldehyde induced by a substrate switch from mannitol to methanol. The genes and the corresponding enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of bacillithiol were identified by heterologous production of bacillithiol in Escherichia coli. The presented results indicate metabolic plasticity of the methylotroph allowing acclimation to fluctuating intracellular formaldehyde concentrations.
Disruption of the GABA shunt affects mitochondrial respiration and virulence in the cereal pathogen Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Bönnighausen Jakob , Gebhard Daniel , Kröger Cathrin , Hadeler Birgit , Tumforde Thomas , Lieberei Reinhard , Bergemann Jörg , Schäfer Wilhelm , Bormann Jörg
Published: August 2015

The cereal pathogen Fusarium graminearum threatens food and feed production worldwide. It reduces the yield and poisons the remaining kernels with mycotoxins, notably deoxynivalenol (DON). We analyzed the importance of gamma‐aminobutanoic acid (GABA) metabolism for the life cycle of this fungal pathogen. GABA metabolism in F. graminearum is partially regulated by the global nitrogen regulator AreA. Genetic disruption of the GABA shunt by deletion of two GABA transaminases renders the pathogen unable to utilize the plant stress metabolites GABA and putrescine. The mutants showed increased sensitivity against oxidative stress, GABA accumulation in the mycelium, downregulation of two key enzymes of the TCA cycle, disturbed potential gradient in the mitochondrial membrane and lower mitochondrial oxygen consumption. In contrast, addition of GABA to the wild type resulted in its rapid turnover and increased mitochondrial steady state oxygen consumption. GABA concentrations are highly upregulated in infected wheat tissues. We conclude that GABA is metabolized by the pathogen during infection increasing its energy production, whereas the mutants accumulate GABA intracellularly resulting in decreased energy production. Consequently, the GABA mutants are strongly reduced in virulence but, because of their DON production, are able to cross the rachis node.
Professional quality of life: A cross‐sectional survey among Chinese clinical nurses
Authors: Shen Jie , Yu Hairong , Zhang Yuanyuan , Jiang Anli
Published: August 2015

The Professional Quality of Life Scale was adapted to create a Chinese version to investigate the professional quality of life of Chinese nurses and possible risk factors. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 752 nurses sampled from four general hospitals in Shanghai, China. An expert panel, cognitive review, and pretest were used to ensure cultural adaptability. Psychometric tests included reliability and validity. One‐way and multivariate analysis of variance were conducted for statistical analysis. Content validity indexes of all items were over 0.90. Five items were excluded because their item‐total correlations and factor loading of exploratory factor analysis were less than 0.3. The 25‐item scale revealed acceptable reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis supported its structure. There was variation in the scores between different departments, religions, working positions, nursing experiences, forms of employment, and average working hours (all P < 0.05). This study extended the application of the original scale in Chinese nursing culture. Attention should be paid to risk factors and differences between East and West.
Examining Nurse Consultant connectivity: An Australian mixed method study
Authors: Giles Michelle , Parker Vicki , Mitchell Rebecca
Published: August 2015

The nurse consultant (NC) role in Australia is a senior classification of advanced practice nurse has been described as enhancing health care outcomes largely through extensive collaboration with consumers, nurses, and other health professionals. However, little is known about the actual nature, amount, and quality of NC interactions. This study examines the connectivity of the NC role across metropolitan and rural contexts, using a mixed method sequential design with an online survey and focus groups with NCs and other stakeholders. Results demonstrated that NCs most commonly have high density connectivity patterns with other nursing colleagues, medical staff, patients/clients, and administrative staff. Position grade (1, 2 or 3) influences density of connectivity, as does location, with those based in metropolitan roles engaging significantly less with other clinicians.

Findings demonstrate that many NCs are highly collaborative and predominantly embedded into interprofessional practice models. This study provides valuable insight into the diverse and often complex NC role and the way in which NC expertise and influence is deployed and integrated across a large local health district.
Non‐enteric infections, antibiotic use, and risk of development of functional gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Paula H. , Grover M. , Halder S. L. , Locke G. R. , Schleck C. D. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Talley N. J.
Published: August 2015

Background

Gastrointestinal infections are risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD). We investigated whether non‐enteric infections and antibiotic exposure are also associated with the development of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs).

Methods

In a nested case–control study, random samples of Olmsted County, MN, were mailed valid self‐report questionnaires from 1988 through 1994, and then follow‐up questionnaires from 1995 through 2003. Survey responders who did not report any FGID symptoms at baseline, but then reported such symptoms in at least one subsequent survey, were classified as new‐onset cases. Age‐matched controls were individuals who did not have symptoms at either the initial or subsequent surveys.

Key Results

The overall response rate was 78% to the initial survey and 52% to the follow‐up survey. Based on the responses, 316 participants had a new onset of an FGID (43 IBS constipation, 95 IBS diarrhea, 25 IBS mixed, and 153 other FGIDs, including FD) and 250 did not (controls). Around 76% (241/316) of cases reported a non‐enteric infection vs 66% (166/250) of the controls. The frequency of enteric infections was similar between the two groups. Of the new FGID cases, 83% had a non‐enteric infection that was treated with antibiotic. In a logistic regression model, treatment with antibiotics for a non‐gastrointestinal infection was associated with the development of an FGID (odds ratio = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.21–2.98; p = 0.005), after adjusting for age and sex.

Conclusions & Inferences

Based on a case–control study, treatment of a non‐gastrointestinal infection with antibiotics appears to be a risk factor for development of an FGID.
Demonstration of elevated levels of active cathepsin S in dextran sulfate sodium colitis using a new activatable probe
Authors: Barlow N. , Nasser Y. , Zhao P. , Sharma N. , Guerrero‐Alba R. , Edgington‐Mitchell L. E. , Lieu T. , Veldhuis N. A. , Poole D. P. , Conner J. W. , Lindström E. , Craig A. W. , Graham B. , Vanner S. J. , Bunnett N. W.
Published: August 2015

Background

Proteases play a major role in inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Activatable probes are a major technological advance, enabling sensitive detection of active proteases in tissue samples. Our aim was to synthesize an activatable probe for cathepsin S and validate its use in a mouse model of colitis.

Methods

We designed and synthesized a new fluorescent activatable probe, NB200, for the detection of active cathepsin S. Colitis was induced in C57BL/6 mice by the administration of 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Homogenized mouse colons, with or without the addition of the specific cathepsin S inhibitor MV026031, were incubated with NB200 in a fluorescent plate reader.

Key Results

NB200 selectively detected purified cathepsin S and not other common inflammatory proteases. Homogenates of colon from mice with DSS colitis induced a significant fluorescent increase when compared to control animals (control vs DSS: p < 0.05 at 200 min and p < 0.01 at 220–240 min), indicating cathepsin S activation. The cathepsin S inhibitor abolished this increase in fluorescence (DSS vs DSS + MV026031: p < 0.05 at 140 min, p < 0.01 at 180 min, p < 0.001 at 200–240 min), which confirms cathepsin S activation. Cathepsin S activity correlated with the disease activity index (Spearman r = 0.77, p = 0.017).

Conclusions & Inferences

Our investigation has demonstrated the utility of activatable probes for detecting protease activity in intestinal inflammation. Panels of such probes may allow ‘signature’ protease profiles to be established for a range of inflammatory diseases and disorders.
Tapetal oleosins play an essential role in tapetosome formation and protein relocation to the pollen coat
Authors: Lévesque‐Lemay Madeleine , Chabot Denise , Hubbard Keith , Chan John K. , Miller Shea , Robert Laurian S.
Published: August 2015

The Arabidopsis pollen grain is covered by a lipidic pollen coat representing select constituents released upon the programmed cell death of the anther secretory tapetum. These constituents originate primarily from two specialized tapetal organelles, elaioplasts and tapetosomes. Tapetosomes are distinctive Brassicaceae organelles derived from the endoplasmic reticulum that store triacylglycerols, flavonoids, alkanes, and proteins.

The tapetosome triacylglycerols are found within lipid droplets surrounded by the highly variable tapetal oleosins that eventually generate the most abundant proteins of the pollen coat. Many questions remain regarding the sub‐cellular targeting of tapetal oleosins as well as their role in tapetosome formation. Translational fusions of different tapetal oleosins or their derived domains to marker proteins were introduced into Arabidopsis thaliana to investigate their localization, processing and function.

Arabidopsis tapetal oleosins were shown to be proteolytically cleaved following tapetum degeneration and different protein domains were targeted to the pollen coat despite vast differences in composition and size. Importantly, specific fusions were discovered to affect distinct aspects of tapetosome formation.

This report not only highlighted the critical role of individual tapetal oleosin domains in Arabidopsis tapetosome formation, but revealed translational fusions to be a valuable tool in deciphering this evidently complex developmental process.
METHODS OF MODELING CONSUMPTION SATURATION WITH UNCERTAINTY IN OPTIMAL STOCKPILE PROBLEMS
Authors: LLOYD J. M. , MEYER G. G. L.
Published: August 2015

Economic problems in the optimal management of strategic resource stockpiles can be rigorously studied and solved by formulating them as optimal control problems in continuous time. In these optimal control problems, the proper description of the control constraints and objective function are critical to reflecting a realistic economic model. Existing work in this area often ignores fundamental saturation effects in the economic systems under scrutiny, and the following paper introduces and compares several methods for correcting this common modeling simplification in both deterministic and stochastic contexts.
THE ENSEMBLE KALMAN FILTER FOR MULTIDIMENSIONAL BIOECONOMIC MODELS
Authors: KVAMSDAL STURLA F. , SANDAL LEIF K.
Published: August 2015

To integrate economic considerations into management decisions in ecosystem frameworks, we need to build models that capture observed system dynamics and incorporate existing knowledge of ecosystems, while at the same time accommodating economic analysis. The main constraint for models to serve in economic analysis is dimensionality. In addition, to apply in long‐term management analysis, models should be stable in terms of adjustments to new observations. We use the ensemble Kalman filter to fit relatively simple models to ecosystem or foodweb data and estimate parameters that are stable over the observed variability in the data. The filter also provides a lower bound on the noise terms that a stochastic analysis requires. In this paper, we apply the filter to model the main interactions in the Barents Sea ecosystem. In a comparison, our method outperforms a regression‐based approach.
Do Faith Communities Have a Role in Addressing Childhood Obesity?
Authors: Opalinski Andra , Dyess Susan , Grooper Sareen
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Pediatric obesity is a multifaceted phenomenon. A partnership with faith‐based communities to address the issue has been suggested. The purpose of this study was to describe the cultural beliefs of faith community leaders regarding childhood obesity and to examine attitudes about their role in addressing the issue.

Design and Sample

A qualitative descriptive design informed by ethnographic methods and triangulation of multiple data sources was utilized to assess the cultural beliefs of faith community leaders. A purposive sample of 13 leaders (nine females, four males) from seven multicultural and multigenerational local faith communities participated in the study. No more than three participants from any one faith community were enrolled in the study.

Results

Twenty‐first century lifestyle challenges, accountability of behaviors (a dichotomy that fluctuated between individual responsibility to community and/or social responsibility), and the need for intentionality emerged as themes from the data.

Conclusions

Faith community leaders envisioned a role for faith communities in addressing childhood obesity. Findings support the ongoing development of population based health promotion programs through faith community engagement. The findings provide a foundation for nurses partnering with faith communities on health promotion programs targeting childhood obesity to address family health issues in a holistic way.
Cell length instead of cell number becomes the predominant factor contributing to hypocotyl length genotypic differences under abiotic stress in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Youssef Chvan , Aubry Catherine , Montrichard Françoise , Beucher Daniel , Juchaux Marjorie , Ben Cécile , Prosperi Jean‐Marie , Teulat Béatrice
Published: August 2015

Hypocotyl elongation in the dark is a crucial process to ensure seedling emergence. It relies both on the cell number and cell length. The contribution of these two factors to the maximal hypocotyl length and the impact of environmental conditions on this contribution are not known. This is surprising considering the agronomic and economical importance of seedling emergence in crop establishment. Using 14 genotypes from a nested core collection representing Medicago truncatula (barrel medic) natural variation, we investigated how epidermal cell number and cell length contribute to hypocotyl length under optimal, low temperature (8°C) and water deficit (−0.50 MPa) conditions. Both cell number and length vary according to genotypes and contribute to maximal hypocotyl length differences between genotypes. This contribution, however, depends on growth conditions. Cell number is the major contributor under optimal conditions (60%) whereas cell length becomes the major determinant under stress. Maximal hypocotyl length is correlated with hypocotyl elongation rate under both stresses but not under optimal condition, revealing contrasted genotypes for cell elongation capacity under stress. To identify the genetic regulators determining cell number and cell length, quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected using a recombinant inbred lines population exhibiting segregation in maximal hypocotyl length. Two QTLs controlling cell number and three QTLs controlling cell length at low temperature were detected. One QTL for cell number and two for cell length were found to be associated with hypocotyl length under low temperature. This study provides new information to improve seedling emergence under abiotic stress.
Managerial Experience and Organizational Performance: A 15‐Year Panel Study of Local Assessors
Authors: Propheter Geoffrey
Published: August 2015

The proposition that managerial experience improves performance is an empirical claim, yet panel studies with long time dimensions exploring the relationship are uncommon. This article investigates the impact of managerial experience on organizational performance using a 15‐year panel of local property assessors in Washington State from 1999 to 2013. Each additional year of experience improves assessment quality as measured by the coefficient of dispersion by three‐tenths of a percent. However, although the relationship is statistically significant, the size of the effect is quite small, with administrative practices and the environment surrounding the assessment task being stronger predictors of assessment performance.
Identification of miRNAs in Bovine Endometrium through RNAseq and Prediction of Regulated Pathways
Authors: Palma‐Vera SE , Sharbati S , Einspanier R
Published: August 2015

Contents

Detection of miRNAs in reproductive tissues is a key step to understand their role in fertility. We hypothesize that miRNAs must be involved in pathways controlling endometrial physiology and defense against pathogens. In this study, we aimed to characterize miRNAs present in bovine endometrium and to predict regulated pathways. Cytobrush endometrial samples from four cows were collected at oestrous cycle days 1–5, 6–12, 13–18 and 19–21. RNA was extracted and sequenced using Ion Torrent ® technology. After mapping of the reads to miRNA stem loops, rRNAs and tRNAs, data were normalized and analysed using DESeq2. Targets and pathways were predicted with miRmap and KEGG, respectively. Validation of miRNAs in tissue was done by RT‐qPCR (miR‐Q). A total of 221 identities were common among groups, accumulating more than 99% of miRNA expression. MiRNAs were predicted to regulate MAPK signalling pathway, lysosome and extracellular matrix (ECM)‐receptor interaction. Eight miRNAs were validated by miR‐Q, showing that let‐7a‐5p and let‐7b were regulated across the oestrous cycle. This study demonstrated a high similarity in miRNA expression profile across the oestrous cycles in bovine endometrium. These miRNAs were predicted to regulate pathways involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, transport and catabolism. The number of pathways shared by different miRNAs indicates the broad range of regulation these molecules exhibit in the endometrium.
Preliminary Reference on Environmental Liability and the Polluter Pays Principle: Case C‐534/13, Fipa
Authors: de Sadeleer Nicolas
Published: August 2015

European Union (EU) environmental policy is the sole EU policy to proclaim a cluster of principles, including the polluter pays principle, the precautionary principle and the principles that preventive action should be taken and environmental damage rectified at source as a matter of priority. Although various understandings and definitions of these principles exist in international environmental law, the EU treaties provide no such definition. Lawyers are thus increasingly inquiring into the types of role these principles play, or may play in the legal practice. The Fipa case, examined in this case note, is one such example.
Youth Participation in Climate Change for Sustainable Engagement
Authors: Narksompong Joanne , Limjirakan Sangchan
Published: August 2015

Youth and children are identified as one of the nine major groups of civil society in Agenda 21, with the right and responsibility to participate in sustainable development. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, through its Article 6 on Education, Training and Public Awareness, calls on governments to implement educational and training programmes on climate change to educate, empower and engage all stakeholders. The New Delhi and Doha work programmes on Article 6, adopted in 2002 and 2012, respectively, target youth as a major group for effective engagement in the formulation and implementation of decisions on climate change. This article uses the case of Thailand to illustrate that national policies in the country insufficiently address educating and engaging youth in climate change issues. It argues that governments need to adequately educate youth and provide opportunities for them to become informed and to be active citizens.
Public Participation and Climate Governance: An Introduction
Authors: Jodoin Sébastien , Duyck Sébastien , Lofts Katherine
Published: August 2015

This introduction situates the contributions to this special issue within the broader legal and scholarly developments that concern the relationship between public participation and climate governance. It begins by discussing the origins and scope of the principle of public participation in international environmental and climate law. It then provides an overview of three broad strands of research that have examined the role and prospects of public participation, collaboration and deliberation in the governance of complex environmental issues such as climate change. It concludes by identifying a number of lines of inquiry that could inform future research on the relationship between public participation and climate governance.
Pathophysiology of Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium Dysregulation in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Felsenfeld Arnold J. , Levine Barton S. , Rodriguez Mariano
Published: August 2015

Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium homeostasis is altered in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hypermagnesemia are not seen until advanced CKD because adaptations develop. Increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion maintains serum calcium normal by increasing calcium efflux from bone, renal calcium reabsorption, and phosphate excretion. Similarly, renal phosphate excretion in CKD is maintained by increased secretion of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and PTH. However, the phosphaturic effect of FGF23 is reduced by downregulation of its cofactor Klotho necessary for binding FGF23 to FGF receptors. Intestinal phosphate absorption is diminished in CKD due in part to reduced levels of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D. Unlike calcium and phosphorus, magnesium is not regulated by a hormone, but fractional excretion of magnesium increases as CKD progresses. As 60–70% of magnesium is reabsorbed in the thick ascending limb of Henle, activation of the calcium‐sensing receptor by magnesium may facilitate magnesium excretion in CKD. Modification of the TRPM6 channel in the distal tubule may also have a role. Besides abnormal bone morphology and vascular calcification, abnormalities in mineral homeostasis are associated with increased cardiovascular risk, increased mortality and progression of CKD.
Preservation of meandering river channels in uniformly aggrading channel belts
Authors: van de Lageweg Wietse I. , Schuurman Filip , Cohen Kim M. , van Dijk Wout M. , Shimizu Yasuyuki , Kleinhans Maarten G.
Published: August 2015

Channel belt deposits from meandering river systems commonly display an internal architecture of stacked depositional features with scoured basal contacts due to channel and bedform migration across a range of scales. Recognition and correct interpretation of these bounding surfaces is essential to reconstruction of palaeochannel dimensions and to flow modelling for hydrocarbon exploration. It is therefore crucial to understand the suite of processes that form and transfer these surfaces into the fluvial sedimentary record. Here, the numerical model ‘NAYS2D’ is used to simulate a highly sinuous meandering river with synthetic stratigraphic architectures that can be compared directly to the sedimentary record. Model results highlight the importance of spatial and temporal variations in channel depth and migration rate to the generation of channel and bar deposits. Addition of net uniform bed aggradation (due to excess sediment input) allows quantification of the preservation of meander morphology for a wide range of depositional conditions. The authors find that the effect of vertical variation in scouring due to channel migration is generally orders of magnitude larger than the effect of bed aggradation, which explains the limited impact bed aggradation has on preservation of meander morphology. Moreover, lateral differences in stratigraphy within the meander belt are much larger than the stratigraphic imprint of bed aggradation. Repeatedly produced alternations of point bar growth followed by cut‐off result in a vertical trend in channel and scour feature stacking. Importantly, this vertical stacking trend differs laterally within the meander belt. In the centre of the meander belt, the high reworking intensity results in many bounding surfaces and disturbed deposits. Closer to the margins, reworking is infrequent and thick deposits with a limited number of bounding surfaces are preserved. These marginal areas therefore have the highest preservation potential for complete channel deposits and are thus best suited for palaeochannel reconstruction.
Myostatin dysfunction is associated with reduction in overload induced hypertrophy of soleus muscle in mice
Authors: Minderis P. , Kilikevicius A. , Baltusnikas J. , Alhindi Y. , Venckunas T. , Bunger L. , Lionikas A. , Ratkevicius A.
Published: August 2015

The aim of the study was to investigate if myostatin dysfunction would promote the gain in muscle mass and peak isometric force (P0) of soleus muscle (SOL) in response to functional overloading (FO) after ablation of the gastrocnemius muscle. Fifteen maleBerlin high (BEH) mice homozygous for the compact mutation causing dysfunction of myostatin and 17 mice with the corresponding wild‐type allele (BEH+/+) were subjected toFOofSOLfor 28 days at the age of 14 weeks. Compared withBEH+/+ mice,SOLofBEHwas heavier (mean ± SD, 13.5 ± 1.5 vs 21.4 ± 1.8 mg, respectively,P < 0.001). AfterFO,SOLmass increased relatively more inBEH+/+ thanBEHstrain (34.9 ± 11.5 vs 17.7 ± 11.9%, respectively,P < 0.01). P0fell (P < 0.01) only inBEHstrain, which also showed an increase (P < 0.01) in optimal muscle length. Specific P0became even more depressed inBEHcompared withBEH+/+ strain (8.4 ± 1.4 vs 10.8 ± 1.3N/g, respectively,P < 0.001). Phosphorylation p70 S6 kinase did not differ between the strains. In summary, myostatin dysfunction impairs adaptation ofSOLmuscle to high functional demands.
Longitudinal development of match‐running performance in elite male youth soccer players
Authors: Saward C. , Morris J. G. , Nevill M. E. , Nevill A. M. , Sunderland C.
Published: August 2015

This study longitudinally examined age‐related changes in the match‐running performance of retained and released elite youth soccer players aged 8–18 years. The effect of playing position on age‐related changes was also considered. Across three seasons, 263 elite youth soccer players were assessed in 1–29 competitive matches (988 player‐matches). For each player‐match, total distance and distances covered at age group‐specific speed zones (low‐speed, high‐speed, sprinting) were calculated using 1 Hz or 5 Hz GPS. Mixed modeling predicted that match‐running performance developed nonlinearly, with age‐related changes best described with quadratic age terms. Modeling predicted that playing position significantly modified age‐related changes (P < 0.05) and retained players covered significantly more low‐speed distance compared with released players (P < 0.05), by 75 ± 71 m/h (mean ± 95% CI; effect size ± 95% CI: 0.35 ± 0.34). Model intercepts randomly varied, indicating differences between players in match‐running performance unexplained by age, playing position or status. These findings may assist experts in developing training programs specific to the match play demands of players of different ages and playing positions. Although retained players covered more low‐speed distance than released players, further study of the actions comprising low‐speed distance during match play is warranted to better understand factors differentiating retained and released players.
Identification of Added Mass in the Composite Plate Structure Based on Wavelet Packet Transform
Authors: Rajendran P. , Srinivasan S. M.
Published: August 2015

A new concept has been introduced that the combination of rotational mode shape with two‐dimensional wavelet packet transform to detect the added mass (damage) in a glass fibre reinforced polymer composite plate structure. Wavelet packet transform is an advanced signal processing tool that can magnify the abnormality features in the signal. Rotational mode shapes are sensitive to damage in beam and plate structures. The proposed method employs an added mass, which slides to different locations to alter the local and global dynamic characteristics of the structure. Finite element analysis is carried out to obtain the first three rotational bending mode shapes, from the damaged plate structure, then used as input to two‐dimensional wavelet packet transform. The numerical results of normalised diagonal detail wavelet packet coefficients show a peak at single or multiple added mass (damage) locations of a plate structure for two different boundary conditions. This method seems to be sensitive to relatively small amount of damage to the plate structure. A simple parametric study is carried out for the damage extent quantification. In addition, investigation with noise‐contaminated signals shows its feasibility in the real applications.
TCP15 modulates cytokinin and auxin responses during gynoecium development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Lucero Leandro E. , Uberti‐Manassero Nora G. , Arce Agustín L. , Colombatti Francisco , Alemano Sergio G. , Gonzalez Daniel H.
Published: August 2015

We studied the role of Arabidopsis thaliana TCP15, a member of the TEOSINTE BRANCHED1‐CYCLOIDEA‐PCF (TCP) transcription factor family, in gynoecium development. Plants that express TCP15 from the 35S CaMV promoter (35S:TCP15) develop flowers with defects in carpel fusion and a reduced number of stigmatic papillae. In contrast, the expression of TCP15 fused to a repressor domain from its own promoter causes the development of outgrowths topped with stigmatic papillae from the replum. 35S:TCP15 plants show lower levels of the auxin indoleacetic acid and reduced expression of the auxin reporter DR5 and the auxin biosynthesis genes YUCCA1 and YUCCA4, suggesting that TCP15 is a repressor of auxin biosynthesis. Treatment of plants with cytokinin enhances the developmental effects of expressing TCP15 or its repressor form. In addition, treatment of a knock‐out double mutant in TCP15 and the related gene TCP14 with cytokinin causes replum enlargement, increased development of outgrowths, and the induction of the auxin biosynthesis genes YUCCA1 and YUCCA4. A comparison of the phenotypes observed after cytokinin treatment of plants with altered expression levels of TCP15 and auxin biosynthesis genes suggests that TCP15 modulates gynoecium development by influencing auxin homeostasis. We propose that the correct development of the different tissues of the gynoecium requires a balance between auxin levels and cytokinin responses, and that TCP15 participates in a feedback loop that helps to adjust this balance.
Empty pericarp7 encodes a mitochondrial E–subgroup pentatricopeptide repeat protein that is required for ccmFN editing, mitochondrial function and seed development in maize
Authors: Sun Feng , Wang Xiaomin , Bonnard Géraldine , Shen Yun , Xiu Zhihui , Li Xiaojie , Gao Dahai , Zhang Zhonghang , Tan Bao‐Cai
Published: August 2015

RNA editing, converting cytidines (C) to uridines (U) at specific sites in the transcripts of mitochondria and plastids, plays a critical role in organelle gene expression in land plants. Recently pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins were identified as site‐specific recognition factors for RNA editing. In this study, we characterized an empty pericarp7 mutant (emp7) in Zea mays (maize), which confers an embryo‐lethal phenotype. In emp7 mutants, mitochondrial functions are seriously perturbed, resulting in a strikingly reduced respiration rate. Emp7 encodes an E–subgroup PPR protein that is localized exclusively in the mitochondrion. Null mutation of Emp7 abolishes the C → U editing of ccmFN transcript solely at position 1553. CcmFN is coding for a subunit of heme lyase complex in the cytochrome c maturation pathway. The resulting Phe → Ser substitution in CcmFN leads to the loss of CcmFN protein and a strikingly reduced c‐type cytochrome. Consequently, the mitochondrial cytochrome‐linked respiratory chain is impaired as a result of the disassembly of complex III in the emp7 mutant. These results indicate that the PPR–E subgroup protein EMP7 is required for C → U editing of ccmFN‐1553 at a position essential for cytochrome c maturation and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, and hence is essential to embryo and endosperm development in maize.
The maize transcription factor EREB58 mediates the jasmonate‐induced production of sesquiterpene volatiles
Authors: Li Shengyan , Wang Hai , Li Fengqi , Chen Zhongliang , Li Xiuying , Zhu Li , Wang Guirong , Yu Jingjuan , Huang Dafang , Lang Zhihong
Published: August 2015

Over the past two decades, Zea mays (maize) has been established as a model system for the study of indirect plant defense against herbivores. When attacked by lepidopteran larvae, maize leaves emit a complex blend of volatiles, mainly composed of sesquiterpenes, to attract the natural enemies of the herbivores. This is associated with a swift transcriptional induction of terpene synthases such as TPS10; however, the molecular components controlling the complex transcriptional reprogramming in this process are still obscure. Here, by exploiting the finding that the maize TPS10 promoter retained its full responsiveness to herbivory in Arabidopsis, we identified the region from −300 to −200 of the TPS10 promoter as both necessary and sufficient for its herbivore inducibility through 5′ deletion mapping. A high‐throughput screening of an Arabidopsis transcription factor library using this promoter region as the bait identified seven AP2/ERF family transcription factors. Among their close homologs in maize, EREB58 was the only gene responsive to herbivory, with a spatiotemporal expression pattern highly similar to that of TPS10. Meanwhile, EREB58 was also responsive to Jasmonate. In vivo and in vitro assays indicated that EREB58 promotes TPS10 expression by directly binding to the GCC‐box within the region from −300 to −200 of the TPS10 promoter. Transgenic maize plants overexpressing EREB58 constitutively over‐accumulate TPS10 transcript, and also (E)‐β‐farnesene and (E)‐α‐bergamotene, two major sesquiterpenes produced by TPS10. In contrast, jasmonate induction of TPS10 and its volatiles was abolished in EREB58‐RNAi transgenic lines. In sum, these results demonstrate that EREB58 is a positive regulator of sesquiterpene production by directly promoting TPS10 expression.