bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct nucleosome distribution patterns in two structurally and functionally differentiated nuclei of a unicellular eukaryote
Authors: Xiong Jie , Gao Shan , Dui Wen , Yang Wentao , Chen Xiao , Taverna Sean D. , Pearlman Ronald E. , Ashlock Wendy , Miao Wei , Liu Yifan
Published: May 2015

The ciliate protozoanTetrahymena thermophilacontains two types of structurally and functionally differentiated nuclei: the transcriptionally active somatic macronucleus (MAC) and the transcriptionally silent germ-line micronucleus (MIC). Here we demonstrate that MAC features well-positioned nucleosomes downstream of transcription start sites (TSS) likely connected with promoter proximal pausing of RNA polymerase II, as well as in exonic regions flanking both the 5’ and 3’ splice sites. In contrast, nucleosomes in MIC are more delocalized. Nucleosome occupancy in MAC and MIC are nonetheless highly correlated with each other and with predictions based upon DNA sequence features. Arrays of well-positioned nucleosomes are often correlated with GC content oscillations, suggesting significant contributions from cis-determinants. We propose that cis- and trans-determinants may coordinately accommodate some well-positioned nucleosomes with important functions, driven by a process in which positioned nucleosomes shape the mutational landscape of associated DNA sequences, while the DNA sequences in turn reinforce nucleosome positioning.
The complex admixture history and recent southern origins of Siberian populations
Authors: Pugach Irina , Matveev Rostislav , Spitsyn Viktor , Makarov Sergey , Novgorodov Innokentiy , Osakovsky Vladimir , Stoneking Mark , Pakendorf Brigitte
Published: May 2015

Although Siberia was inhabited by modern humans at an early stage, there is still debate over whether this area remained habitable during the extremely cold period of the Last Glacial Maximum or whether it was subsequently repopulated by peoples with a recent shared ancestry. Previous studies of the genetic history of Siberian populations were hampered by the extensive admixture that appears to have taken place among these populations, since commonly used methods assume a tree-like population history and at most single admixture events. We therefore developed a new method based on the covariance of ancestry components, which we validated with simulated data, in order to investigate this potentially complex admixture history and to distinguish the effects of shared ancestry from prehistoric migrations and contact. We furthermore adapted a previously devised method of admixture dating for use with multiple events of gene flow, and applied these methods to whole-genome genotype data from over 500 individuals belonging to 20 different Siberian ethnolinguistic groups. The results of these analyses indicate that there have indeed been multiple layers of admixture detectable in most of the Siberian populations, with considerable differences in the admixture histories of individual populations, and with the earliest events dated to not more than 4500 years ago. Furthermore, most of the populations of Siberia included here, even those settled far to the north, can be shown to have a southern origin. These results provide support for a recent population replacement in this region, with the northward expansions of different populations possibly being driven partly by the advent of pastoralism, especially reindeer domestication. These newly developed methods to analyse multiple admixture events should aid in the investigation of similarly complex population histories elsewhere.

Author Summary

We developed a new method that lets us disentangle complex admixture events and date the individual episodes of gene flow. We applied this method to a large dataset of genome-wide SNP genotypes from a linguistically diverse sample of populations covering the extent of Siberia. Our results demonstrate that these populations have been in intense contact with each other, with most of them carrying more than two, and up to six different ancestries. Nevertheless, as shown by the dates we estimate, these various admixture events have taken place over a relatively short time, with the oldest dating to not more than 4500 years ago. Our results emphasize the enormous impact that contact has had on the genetic history of these Siberian populations, and the methods developed here will be of use in the investigation of admixture events in populations around the world.
Fine-mapping cellular QTLs with RASQUAL and ATAC-seq
Authors: Kumasaka Natsuhiko , Knights Andrew , Gaffney Daniel
Published: May 2015

When cellular traits are measured using high-throughput DNA sequencing quantitative trait loci (QTLs) manifest at two levels: population level differences between individuals and allelic differences betweencis-haplotypes within individuals. We present RASQUAL (Robust Allele Specific QUAntitation and quality controL), a novel statistical approach for association mapping that integrates genetic effects and robust modelling of biases in next generation sequencing (NGS) data within a single, probabilistic framework. RASQUAL substantially improves causal variant localisation and sensitivity of association detection over existing methods in RNA-seq, DNaseI-seq and ChIP-seq data. We illustrate how RASQUAL can be used to maximise association detection by generating the first map of chromatin accessibility QTLs (caQTLs) in a European population using ATAC-seq. Despite a modest sample size, we identified 2,706 independent caQTLs (FDR 10%) and illustrate how RASQUAL’s improved causal variant localisation provides powerful information for fine-mapping disease-associated variants. We also map “multipeak” caQTLs, identical genetic associations found across multiple, independent open chromatin regions and illustrate how genetic signals in ATAC-seq data can be used to link distal regulatory elements with gene promoters. Our results highlight how joint modelling of population and allele-specific genetic signals can improve functional interpretation of noncoding variation.
Driven to Extinction: On the Probability of Evolutionary Rescue from Sex-Ratio Meiotic Drive
Authors: Unckless Robert , Clark Andrew
Published: May 2015

Many evolutionary processes result in sufficiently low mean fitness that they pose a risk of species extinction. Sex-ratio meiotic drive was recognized by W.D. Hamilton (1967) to pose such a risk, because as the driving sex chromosome becomes common, the opposite sex becomes rare. We expand on Hamilton’s classic model by allowing for the escape from extinction due to evolution of suppressors of X and Y drivers. We explore differences in the two systems in their probability of escape from extinction. Several novel conclusions are evident, including a) that extinction time scales approximately with the log of population size so that even large populations may go extinct quickly, b) extinction risk is driven by the relationship between female fecundity and drive strength, c) anisogamy and the fact that X and Y drive result in sex ratios skewed in opposite directions, mean systems with Y drive are much more likely to go extinct than those with X drive, and d) suppressors are most likely to become established when the strength of drive is intermediate, since weak drive leads to weak selection for suppression and strong drive leads to rapid extinction.
Loss of the RNA polymerase III repressor MAF1 confers obesity resistance
Authors: Bonhoure Nicolas , Byrnes Ashlee , Moir Robyn D. , Hodroj Wassim , Preitner Frédéric , Praz Viviane , Marcelin Genevieve , Chua Streamson C. , Martinez-Lopez Nuria , Singh Rajat , Moullan Norman , Auwerx Johan , Willemin Gilles , Shah Hardik , Hartil Kirsten , Vaitheesvaran Bhavapriya , Kurland Irwin , Hernandez Nouria , Willis Ian M.
Published: May 2015

MAF1 is a global repressor of RNA polymerase III transcription that regulates the expression of highly abundant noncoding RNAs in response to nutrient availability and cellular stress. Thus, MAF1 function is thought to be important for metabolic economy. Here we show that a whole-body knockout of Maf1 in mice confers resistance to diet-induced obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by reducing food intake and increasing metabolic inefficiency. Energy expenditure in Maf1−/− mice is increased by several mechanisms. Precursor tRNA synthesis was increased in multiple tissues without significant effects on mature tRNA levels, implying increased turnover in a futile tRNA cycle. Elevated futile cycling of hepatic lipids was also observed. Metabolite profiling of the liver and skeletal muscle revealed elevated levels of many amino acids and spermidine, which links the induction of autophagy in Maf1−/− mice with their extended life span. The increase in spermidine was accompanied by reduced levels of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase, which promotes polyamine synthesis, enables nicotinamide salvage to regenerate NAD+, and is associated with obesity resistance. Consistent with this, NAD+ levels were increased in muscle. The importance of MAF1 for metabolic economy reveals the potential for MAF1 modulators to protect against obesity and its harmful consequences.
Mapping Protein–Protein Interactions Using Yeast Two-Hybrid Assays
Authors: Mehla Jitender , Caufield J. Harry , Uetz Peter
Published: May 2015

Yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) screens are an efficient system for mapping protein–protein interactions and whole interactomes. The screens can be performed using random libraries or collections of defined open reading frames (ORFs) called ORFeomes. This protocol describes both library and array-based Y2H screening, with an emphasis on array-based assays. Array-based Y2H is commonly used to test a number of “prey” proteins for interactions with a single “bait” (target) protein or pool of proteins. The advantage of this approach is the direct identification of interacting protein pairs without further downstream experiments: The identity of the preys is known and does not require further confirmation. In contrast, constructing and screening a random prey library requires identification of individual prey clones and systematic retesting. Retesting is typically performed in an array format.
A Systematic Approach for Assessing Ca2+ Handling in Cardiac Myocytes
Authors: Sipido Karin R. , Macquaide Niall , Bito Virginie
Published: May 2015

In cardiac myocytes, Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ store through the opening of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) is the major source of Ca2+ for activation of myofilaments and contraction. Over the past 20 years, tools have become available to study this release process in detail, allowing new insights into the regulation of SR Ca2+ release and RyR function. To assess these processes, we recommend and here review a systematic approach that evaluates the essential transport mechanisms and Ca2+ fluxes in isolated single cardiac myocytes by using fluorescent Ca2+ indicators and whole-cell recording of membrane voltage and ionic currents under voltage clamp. The approach includes an assessment of the L-type Ca2+ current as a trigger for opening of RyRs and release of SR Ca2+, of the SR Ca2+ content, of intrinsic properties of RyRs, and of Ca2+-removal systems.
An R2R3-MYB Transcription Factor Regulates Eugenol Production in Ripe Strawberry Fruit Receptacles
Authors: Medina-Puche Laura , Molina-Hidalgo Francisco Javier , Boersma Maaike , Schuurink Robert C. , López-Vidriero Irene , Solano Roberto , Franco-Zorrilla José-Manuel , Caballero José Luis , Blanco-Portales Rosario , Muñoz-Blanco Juan
Published: May 2015

Eugenol is a volatile phenylpropanoid that contributes to flower and ripe fruit scent. In ripe strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) fruit receptacles, eugenol is biosynthesized by eugenol synthase (FaEGS2). However, the transcriptional regulation of this process is still unknown. We have identified and functionally characterized an R2R3 MYB transcription factor (EMISSION OF BENZENOID II [FaEOBII]) that seems to be the orthologous gene of PhEOBII from Petunia hybrida, which contributes to the regulation of eugenol biosynthesis in petals. The expression of FaEOBII was ripening related and fruit receptacle specific, although high expression values were also found in petals. This expression pattern of FaEOBII correlated with eugenol content in both fruit receptacle and petals. The expression of FaEOBII was repressed by auxins and activated by abscisic acid, in parallel to the ripening process. In ripe strawberry receptacles, where the expression of FaEOBII was silenced, the expression of CINNAMYL ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENASE1 and FaEGS2, two structural genes involved in eugenol production, was down-regulated. A subsequent decrease in eugenol content in ripe receptacles was also observed, confirming the involvement of FaEOBII in eugenol metabolism. Additionally, the expression of FaEOBII was under the control of FaMYB10, another R2R3 MYB transcription factor that regulates the early and late biosynthetic genes from the flavonoid/phenylpropanoid pathway. In parallel, the amount of eugenol in FaMYB10-silenced receptacles was also diminished. Taken together, these data indicate that FaEOBII plays a regulating role in the volatile phenylpropanoid pathway gene expression that gives rise to eugenol production in ripe strawberry receptacles.
Safe foster care for victims of child sexual exploitation
Authors: Shuker Lucie Elizabeth
Published: May 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to report on an evaluation of a pilot of specialist foster care for children at risk, or victims, of child sexual exploitation (CSE) and/or trafficking.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research adopted a multi-case study approach, gathering placement documentation, interviews and weekly monitoring logs throughout the duration of the 13 placements.

Findings

– This evaluation found that safety for those at risk, or victims, of CSE within the in-care population has both a physical and a relational element. The most successful placements were able to deploy restrictive safety measures effectively by tipping the balance of care and control towards demonstrations of compassion and acceptance. Good relationships in these foster homes unlocked other positive outcomes, including reduced missing incidences and increased awareness of exploitation.

Research limitations/implications

– The small sample size within this pilot project suggests the need for further research to test the applicability of the notion of multi-dimensional safety to young people’s welfare more generally.

Practical implications

– The findings confirm previous research that highlights the importance of stable relationships in child protection. They have implications for current tendencies to commission short-term CSE interventions that are unlikely to create the relational security that can improve community safety for young people.

Originality/value

– This is the first published evaluation of specialist accommodation for those affected by CSE in the UK, and its findings will therefore be of most value to commissioners and providers of care to looked after young people. The concept of multi-dimensional safety will be relevant to those with responsibility for child welfare/safeguarding.
Utilising the arts to tackle child sexual exploitation
Authors: Cody Claire
Published: May 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to consider the potential use of creative, arts-based methods to address child sexual exploitation (CSE) through connecting with and supporting young people affected by CSE; and engaging the wider community through awareness-raising and education to help keep young people safe. The use of the arts in building understanding, promoting agency, educating and countering negative portrayals of those affected by CSE are also explored.

Design/methodology/approach

– A literature review identified that there is currently a limited evidence-base surrounding the use of arts in addressing the negative outcomes for young people affected by CSE and promoting the inclusion and safety of young people in the community. To explore the potential use of the arts in engaging young people and the communities they inhabit, this paper draws from research with other “hard to engage” and stigmatised groups, and learning from efforts to tackle other sensitive and challenging issues that impact on communities.

Findings

– The paper suggests that despite the relatively young evidence base concerning the role of creative, arts-based methods to tackle CSE, there is relevant transferable learning that suggests that there is potential in utilising the arts to help prevent CSE and promote community safety.

Research limitations/implications

– There is a clear need to consider the ethical implications of this work and to further examine how the arts may be utilised to tackle CSE and bring about positive outcomes for both individuals and for the wider community.

Originality/value

– The paper brings together bodies of literature from other fields to explore the potential use of creative arts-based methods to tackle a significant contemporary issue of community safety.
‘Supportive Parenting’, Responsibility and Regulation: The Welfare Assessment under the Reformed Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act (1990)
Authors: Sheldon Sally , Lee Ellie , Macvarish Jan
Published: May 2015

Section 13(5) of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 requires fertility clinics, before offering regulated treatment services, to take account of the welfare of any child who may be born as a result of the treatment and any other child affected by that birth. This paper presents the findings of an empirical study examining the impact on practice of the controversial reform of this section in 2008. While the broad values underpinning section 13(5) appear well embedded in clinic staff's engagement with ethical issues, there is little evidence that practice has been influenced by the 2008 amendments. A complex picture emerged regarding the implementation of section 13(5), particularly in its interaction with other factors, such as funding criteria and professional norms around counselling, implying a higher level of ongoing attention to likely parenting ability – particularly that of single women – than might be expected from a reading of the statute and guidance alone.
Control over Personal Data in a Digital Age: Google Spain v AEPD and Mario Costeja Gonzalez
Authors: Lynskey Orla
Published: May 2015

In the Google Spain judgment, the Grand Chamber of the EU Court of Justice determined the circumstances in which a search engine is obliged to remove links to data pertaining to an individual from the results displayed. The Court also considered the material and territorial scope of the EU data protection rules. This note argues that the Court's findings, which have been heavily criticised, are normatively coherent. The broad scope of application of data protection rules and the right of individuals to have their data deleted when certain conditions are fulfilled both play a part in granting individuals effective control over their personal data – an objective of EU data protection law.
Frequent marijuana use, binge drinking and mental health problems among undergraduates
Authors: Keith Diana R. , Hart Carl L. , McNeil Michael P. , Silver Rae , Goodwin Renee D.
Published: May 2015

Background and Objectives

In light of the rapidly changing legal status of marijuana in the U.S., there has been increased interest in the potentially adverse outcomes of heavy marijuana use among young persons. The goal of this study was to investigate frequent marijuana use among undergraduates, and its association with the use of illicit substances, mental health problems, and stress.

Methods

Undergraduates from one university in the Northeast were surveyed using a questionnaire derived from the American College Health Association‐National College Health Assessment (N = 1,776). Logistic regression analyses were used to examine relationships between frequency of marijuana use and other substance use, binge drinking, negative consequences of drinking, mental health problems, and perceived stress. Analyses were adjusted for demographics differences such as gender, race, year in school, and sorority/fraternity membership.

Results

Approximately 1 in 12 undergraduates (8.5%) reported using marijuana more than 10 days in the past month. Frequent marijuana use was associated with increased likelihood of other substance use and alcohol‐related negative outcomes. Marijuana use was associated with increased reports of anxiety, and frequent use was associated with depression and substance use problems. Perceived stress was not associated with marijuana use.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

These findings, indicating that frequent use is related to depression, other substance use and negative outcomes, contribute to our understanding of marijuana use among undergraduates. Given the relatively high prevalence of marijuana use among young persons, future studies should seek to uncover potentially causal relationships between frequent marijuana use and a variety of negative outcomes. (Am J Addict 2015;24:499–506)
Divided Government and the Fragmentation of American Law
Authors: Farhang Sean , Yaver Miranda
Published: May 2015

We investigate institutional explanations for Congress's choice to fragment statutory frameworks for policy implementation. We argue that divided party government, which fuels legislative‐executive conflict over control of the bureaucracy, motivates Congress to fragment implementation power as a strategy to enhance its control over implementation. We develop a novel measure of fragmentation in policy implementation, collect data on it over the period 1947–2008, and test hypotheses linking separation‐of‐powers structures to legislative design of fragmented implementation power. We find that divided party government is powerfully associated with fragmentation in policy implementation, and that this association contributed to the long‐run growth of fragmentation in the postwar United States. We further find that legislative coalitions are more likely to fragment implementation power in the face of greater uncertainty about remaining in the majority.
On Measuring Legislative Agenda‐Setting Power
Authors: Jenkins Jeffery A. , Monroe Nathan W.
Published: May 2015

We propose a typology for measuring agenda‐setting success and failure in a legislative context. Our typology goes beyond the most commonly used measure (“rolls”) and includes the full range of agenda‐setting outcomes—rolls (opposing a proposal that subsequently passes), as well as “blocks” (opposing a proposal that is subsequently defeated), “successes” (supporting a proposal that subsequently passes), and “disappointments” (supporting a proposal that is subsequently defeated)—and thus takes into account instances of both positive and negative agenda power. We discuss these measures, and the theoretical questions surrounding them, with the hope of providing some guidance to scholars of the U.S. House, as well as those analyzing agenda power in other legislatures. As a first step in this direction, we explore variation in agenda‐setting measures in 85 American state legislative chambers, the Mexican Chamber of Deputies, and the Canadian House of Commons.
The direct integral method for confidence intervals for the ratio of two location parameters
Authors: Wang Yanqing , Wang Suojin , Carroll Raymond J.
Published: May 2015

In a relative risk analysis of colorectal caner on nutrition intake scores across genders, we show that, surprisingly, when comparing the relative risks for men and women based on the index of a weighted sum of various nutrition scores, the problem reduces to forming a confidence interval for the ratio of two (asymptotically) normal random variables. The latter is an old problem, with a substantial literature. However, our simulation results suggest that existing methods often either give inaccurate coverage probabilities or have a positive probability to produce confidence intervals with infinite length. Motivated by such a problem, we develop a new methodology which we call the Direct Integral Method for Ratios (DIMER), which, unlike the other methods, is based directly on the distribution of the ratio. In simulations, we compare this method to many others. These simulations show that, generally, DIMER more closely achieves the nominal confidence level, and in those cases that the other methods achieve the nominal levels, DIMER has comparable confidence interval lengths. The methodology is then applied to a real data set, and with follow up simulations.
The Control and Performance of Joint Ventures
Authors: Mantecon Tomas , Song Kyojik , Luo Haowen
Published: May 2015

We analyze the control and performance of assets operating in joint ventures (JVs). Control in JVs is determined by the allocation of voting rights and by the contracts that govern the JVs. This hybrid allocation of control seeks to reduce the potential for ex post opportunism. The results suggest that contractual provisions encourage collaboration and improve JV performance when one of the partners accepts a minority position on the board. The analysis also reveals that with the exception of JVs with contractual option provisions, assets operating in our sample of JVs generate higher returns than assets in fully controlled subsidiaries.
Communication Skills, Cultural Sensitivity, and Collaboration in an Experiential Language Village Simulation
Authors: Clark Allen , Minami Nathan
Published: May 2015

This article discusses five college students' experiences in a simulated full‐immersion, Arabic‐speaking language village and the impact of that experience on learners' beliefs about the power of collaborative learning, the critical importance of cultural awareness, the efficacy of learning languages within a functioning community of practice, and the utility of role play and experiential learning. The article also shares students' insights into the value of both classroom and unstructured language learning opportunities and the contribution that such immersion scenarios can make as a stepping‐stone into a full‐immersion, long‐term study abroad experience.
Modeling Visit Probabilities within Network‐Time Prisms Using Markov Techniques
Authors: Song Ying , Miller Harvey J. , Zhou Xuesong , Proffitt David
Published: May 2015

The space‐time prism is a key concept in time geography that captures both spatial and temporal constraints on an object's potential mobility. For mobility within transportation networks, network‐time prisms (NTPs) delimit accessible locations with respect to time given scheduling constraints, movement constraints, and speed limits imposed by the network. The boundary of a NTP has been used as a measure of individuals' accessibility within a network. However, the interior structure has lacked quantitative characterization, including the distribution of visit probabilities at accessible locations. This article models visit probabilities within NTPs using two types of Markov techniques: (1) Brownian motion on undirected graphs for nonvehicular mobility (e.g., walking) and (2) continuous‐time semi‐Markov process for vehicular mobility (e.g., biking, driving). Based on these methods, we simulate nonvehicular and vehicular visit probabilities and visualize these distributions. For vehicular mobility, we compare the simulated visit probabilities with empirical probabilities derived from trajectories collected by Global Positioning System (GPS) in New York City, USA. The visit probabilities provide a quantitative description of individuals' potential mobility within a NTP and a foundation for developing the refined accessibility benefit and cost measures that go beyond the binary nature of classical NTPs.
Influence of dietary supplementation with flaxseed and lactobacilli on the mucosal morphology and proliferative cell rate in the jejunal mucosa of piglets after weaning
Authors: Jonecova Zuzana , Toth Stefan , Ciccocioppo Rachele , Rodrigo Luis , Kruzliak Peter , Nemcova Radomira
Published: May 2015

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of flaxseed and lactobacilli supplementation to the diet of piglets during the time period between 10 days before and 21 days after weaning. The morphometry of the jejunal mucosa and proliferative ratio of both epithelial and lamina propria cells were compared with those found in a group of piglets fed with the usual diet added with sunflower oil during the same time period. The addition of flaxseed oil to the diet significantly increased the crypt depth in comparison with both groups supplemented with sunflower (P < 0.05 and 0.001 respectively) on the weaning day. Moreover, the flaxseed addition caused a significant decrease in villus height (P < 0.01) and crypt depth (P < 0.01) 21 days postweaning in comparison with the sunflower group. The proliferative ratio of the epithelial cells in the sunflower group on the weaning day was significantly higher than in both flaxseed groups (P < 0.01). Paradoxically, significantly higher proliferative activity in the mucosal connective tissue in the group with flaxseed supplementation in comparison with the sunflower group was observed on the day of weaning, as well as 3 days later (P < 0.05 both). A combination of flaxseed with lactobacilli showed significantly lower proliferative activity in the connective tissue cells from weaning up to 7 days after weaning (P < 0.05 all) in comparison with the flaxseed group.
Farmed Atlantic salmon Salmo salar L. parr may reduce early survival of wild fish
Authors: Sundt‐Hansen L. , Huisman J. , Skoglund H. , Hindar K.
Published: May 2015

The study examined the density‐mediated effects on growth, survival and dispersal of wild and farmed Atlantic salmon Salmo salar offspring in the period immediately following emergence, using a substitutive design. In small confined stream channels, wild parr coexisting with farmed parr had a significantly poorer survival, than wild parr alone. Density did not affect this relationship. In larger unconfined stream channels, wild parr coexisting with farmed parr entered a downstream trap in higher numbers than wild parr in allopatry. The results suggests that during the earliest life stages, farmed S. salar can outcompete wild S. salar, resulting in a reduced survival of wild S. salar.
EU‐Average Impacts of Wheat Production: A Meta‐Analysis of Life Cycle Assessments
Authors: Achten Wouter M.J. , Van Acker Karel
Published: May 2015

Wheat is an important commodity in Europe. With a production of 133 million tonnes per year and annual import and export accounting for 6.3 and 5.3 billion US$, respectively, wheat is the most important cereal in Europe. Wheat cultivation further feeds into a wide variety of products ranging from bread, over imitation meat, to biofuels and bio‐based materials. Therefore, it is desirable to have a synthetic life cycle assessment (LCA) of the impacts of an average kilogram (kg) of wheat produced in Europe. This article aims to provide such a synthesis using two strategies. In the first strategy, we give an overview of published LCA impacts of wheat production. A second strategy is a meta‐analysis in which a re‐evaluation is made of 20 available life cycle inventories representing cases in 11 different European countries. Based on the production shares of these countries in the total European production, weighted average impacts are calculated. These weighted averages of the re‐evaluated inventories show that an average kg of wheat grain produced in Europe demands 3.25 megajoules of nonrenewable, fossil energy, emits 0.61 to 0.65 kg carbon dioxide equivalents, triggers terrestrial acidification of 4.94 to 6.51 grams (g) sulphur dioxide equivalents, freshwater eutrophication of 0.08 to 0.09 g phosphorous equivalents, marine eutrophication of 4.97 to 7.60 g nitrogen equivalents, and occupies 1.63 square meter years of agricultural land. The re‐evaluation of studies results in similar impacts as the mere reviewing of energy demands and global warming potentials. Given the many applications of wheat, the presented meta‐analysis is interesting to evaluate the average and range of environmental performance of wheat production in Europe, but is also useful as an input in assessing impacts of wheat‐based products.
REINVENTING FOREIGN AID FOR INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: KUZNETS, PIKETTY AND THE GREAT POLICY REVERSAL
Authors: Asongu Simplice
Published: May 2015

This survey essay reviews close to 200 papers in arguing that in order to achieve sustainable and inclusive development, foreign aid should not orient developing countries toward industrialization in the perspective of Kuznets but in the view of Piketty. Abandoning the former's view that inequality will fall with progress in industrialization and placing more emphasis on inequality in foreign aid policy will lead to more sustainable development outcomes. Inter alia: mitigate short‐term poverty, address concerns of burgeoning population growth, train recipient governments on inclusive development, fight corruption and mismanagement and avoid the shortfalls of celebrated Kuznets’ conjectures. We discuss how the essay addresses post‐2015 development challenges and provide foreign aid policy instruments with which discussed objectives can be achieved. In summary, the essay provides useful policy measures to avoid past pitfalls. ‘Output may be growing, and yet the mass of the people may be becoming poorer’ (Lewis). ‘Lewis led all developing countries to water, proverbially speaking, some African countries have so far chosen not to drink’ (Amavilah). Piketty has led all developing countries to the stream again and a challenging policy syndrome of our time is how foreign aid can help them to drink.
The Beauty Contest and Short‐Term Trading
Authors: CESPA GIOVANNI , VIVES XAVIER
Published: May 2015

Short‐termism need not breed informational price inefficiency even when generating beauty contests. We demonstrate this claim in a two‐period market with persistent liquidity trading and risk‐averse, privately informed, short‐term investors and find that prices reflect average expectations about fundamentals and liquidity trading. Informed investors engage in “retrospective” learning to reassess inferences (about fundamentals) made during the trading game's early stages. This behavior introduces strategic complementarities in the use of information and can yield two stable equilibria that can be ranked in terms of liquidity, volatility, and informational efficiency. We derive implications that explain market anomalies as well as empirical regularities.
The Total Cost of Corporate Borrowing in the Loan Market: Don't Ignore the Fees
Authors: BERG TOBIAS , SAUNDERS ANTHONY , STEFFEN SASCHA
Published: May 2015

More than 80% of U.S. syndicated loans contain at least one fee type and contracts typically specify a menu of spreads and fee types. We test the predictions of existing theories on the main purposes of fees and provide supporting evidence that: (1) fees are used to price options embedded in loan contracts such as the drawdown option for credit lines and the cancellation option in term loans, and (2) fees are used to screen borrowers based on the likelihood of exercising these options. We also propose a new total‐cost‐of‐borrowing measure that includes various fees charged by lenders.
Arbitrage Asymmetry and the Idiosyncratic Volatility Puzzle
Authors: STAMBAUGH ROBERT F. , YU JIANFENG , YUAN YU
Published: May 2015

Buying is easier than shorting for many equity investors. Combining this arbitrage asymmetry with the arbitrage risk represented by idiosyncratic volatility (IVOL) explains the negative relation between IVOL and average return. The IVOL‐return relation is negative among overpriced stocks but positive among underpriced stocks, with mispricing determined by combining 11 return anomalies. Consistent with arbitrage asymmetry, the negative relation among overpriced stocks is stronger, especially for stocks less easily shorted, so the overall IVOL‐return relation is negative. Further supporting our explanation, high investor sentiment weakens the positive relation among underpriced stocks and, especially, strengthens the negative relation among overpriced stocks.
The Labor Market for Directors and Externalities in Corporate Governance
Authors: LEVIT DORON , MALENKO NADYA
Published: May 2015

This paper studies how directors' reputational concerns affect board structure, corporate governance, and firm value. In our setting, directors affect their firms' governance, and governance in turn affects firms' demand for new directors. Whether the labor market rewards a shareholder‐friendly or management‐friendly reputation is determined in equilibrium and depends on aggregate governance. We show that directors' desire to be invited to other boards creates strategic complementarity of corporate governance across firms. Directors' reputational concerns amplify the governance system: strong systems become stronger and weak systems become weaker. We derive implications for multiple directorships, board size, transparency, and board independence.
MR Imaging of the Lumbosacral Plexus: A Review of Techniques and Pathologies
Authors: Neufeld Ethan A. , Shen Peter Yi , Nidecker Anna E. , Runner Gabriel , Bateni Cyrus , Tse Gary , Chin Cynthia
Published: May 2015

The lumbosacral plexus is a complex anatomic area that serves as the conduit of innervation and sensory information to and from the lower extremities. It is formed by the ventral rami of the lumbar and sacral spine which then combine into larger nerves serving the pelvis and lower extremities. It can be a source of severe disability and morbidity for patients when afflicted with pathology. Patients may experience motor weakness, sensory loss, and/or debilitating pain. Primary neurologic processes can affect the lumbosacral plexus in both genetic and acquired conditions and typically affect the plexus and nerves symmetrically. Additionally, its unique relationship to the pelvic musculature and viscera render it vulnerable to trauma, infection, and malignancy. Such conditions are typically proceeded by a known history of trauma or established pelvic malignancy or infection. Magnetic resonance imaging is an invaluable tool for evaluation of the lumbosacral plexus due to its anatomic detail and sensitivity to pathologic changes. It can identify the cause for disability, indicate prognosis for improvement, and be a tool for delivery of interventions. Knowledge of proper MR protocols and imaging features is key for appropriate and timely diagnosis. Here we discuss the relevant anatomy of the lumbosacral plexus, appropriate imaging techniques for its evaluation, and discuss the variety of pathologies that may afflict it.
Performance‐Based Probabilistic Capacity Models and Fragility Estimates for RC Columns Subject to Vehicle Collision
Authors: Sharma Hrishikesh , Gardoni Paolo , Hurlebaus Stefan
Published: May 2015

With the increasing population and the demand associated with it, the infrastructure and transportation facilities have increased rapidly over the years. The progress has been accompanied by an increasing number of vehicle collisions with structures. This type of collision might lead to the damage and sometimes collapse of the structures. In reinforced concrete (RC) structures, columns are usually the most vulnerable members exposed to collisions. However, the existing design guidelines and provisions for protection of these members against collision of vehicles are not adequate. In particular, the desired behavior and the associated performance levels of a structure during a vehicle collision are not defined. Therefore, there is a need to assess the vulnerability of structures against such collisions. This article develops performance‐based probabilistic models for the dynamic shear force capacity of RC columns in bridges and buildings. A framework is also developed to estimate the fragility of the RC columns subject to vehicle collision. The developed probabilistic dynamic shear force capacity models can be used for a performance‐based design of structures such as buildings and bridges. The developed framework can be used to estimate the adequacy of a structure to sustain a collision event and make recommendations for repair and retrofit. Proposed approach can be applied to study similar cases of collision such as ship collision to bridge piers, projectile collision into concrete walls and develop adequate models.
Emerging treatments in Neurogastroenterology: Perspectives of guanylyl cyclase C agonists use in functional gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Jarmuż A. , Zielińska M. , Storr M. , Fichna J.
Published: May 2015

Background

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are the most frequent pathologic conditions affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and both significantly reduce patients’ quality of life. Recent studies suggest that guanylyl cyclase C (GC‐C) expressed in the GI tract constitutes a novel pharmacological target in the treatment of FGID and IBD. Endogenous GC‐C agonists – guanylin peptides: guanylin and uroguanylin, by the regulation of water and electrolyte transport, are involved in the maintenance of homeostasis in the intestines and integrity of the intestinal mucosa. Linaclotide, a synthetic agonist of GC‐C was approved by Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency as a therapeutic in constipation‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS‐C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC). Lately, several preclinical and clinical trials focused on assessment of therapeutic properties of synthetic agonists of uroguanylin, plecanatide, and SP‐333. Plecanatide is currently tested as a potential therapeutic in diseases related to constipation and SP‐333 is a promising drug in ulcerative colitis treatment.

Purpose

Here, we discuss the most recent findings and future trends on the development of GC‐C agonists and their use in clinical trials.
How diversity contributes to academic research teams performance
Authors: De Saá‐Pérez Petra , Díaz‐Díaz Nieves L. , Aguiar‐Díaz Inmaculada , Ballesteros‐Rodríguez José Luis
Published: May 2015

The objective of this paper is to analyse how the job‐related diversity in academic research teams influences their scientific performance. To achieve that objective, an empirical study of a university's research teams was carried out during the years 2006–2009. The results reflect a non‐significant effect of functional diversity on research teams' performance, whereas status diversity affects in a positive and significant way. However, educational diversity has a significant negative impact when a certain threshold is exceeded. The effect of institutional diversity presents an inverted U‐shaped relation with the number of published articles by the research teams. The results reveal that the relationship between diversity and research performance may not be a simple and direct one because its effect could depend on the organisational context and the type of diversity attributes.
Transparency in Europe: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Bouder Frederic , Way Dominic , Löfstedt Ragnar , Evensen Darrick
Published: May 2015

In recent years, European pharmaceutical regulators have increasingly committed to heightening access to raw safety‐related data as part of a wave of transparency initiatives (e.g., providing public Internet‐mediated access to clinical trials data). Yet, the regulators—who are under significant pressure—have not yet benefited from a systematic review of this new policy. In seeking to inject much needed evidence, this article explores the effects of new transparency policies designed to promote meaningful communication of risks and benefits to patients. Results of a cross‐national European survey with respondents from Great Britain, the Netherlands, Spain, France, Germany, and Sweden (N = 5,648) shed light on how patients and the public are likely to react to the regulators’ new transparency policies. The findings demonstrate clear national variations in how European citizens are likely to react and emphasize the need to develop evidence‐based, reasoned transparency policies that integrate benefit‐risk communication. The authors conclude by providing six specific recommendations, informed by the study, that seek to improve the European transparency model both within the medical field and across health, safety, and environmental policy domains.
Ellis‐Van Creveld syndrome: dental management considerations and description of a new oral finding
Authors: Hassona Y. , Hamdan M. , Shqaidef A. , Abu Karaky A. , Scully C.
Published: May 2015

Ellis‐Van Creveld is a rare syndrome with characteristic dental and orofacial findings. Dental management of patients with Ellis‐Van Creveld syndrome can be complicated by the associated skeletal and cardiac abnormalities. Here, we present the dental and orofacial findings in a patient with Ellis‐Van Creveld syndrome, describe a new oral finding, and discuss the dental management considerations.
A Model Specification Test For GARCH(1,1) Processes
Authors: Leucht Anne , Kreiss Jens‐Peter , Neumann Michael H.
Published: May 2015

We provide a consistent specification test for generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic (GARCH (1,1)) models based on a test statistic of Cramér‐von Mises type. Because the limit distribution of the test statistic under the null hypothesis depends on unknown quantities in a complicated manner, we propose a model‐based (semiparametric) bootstrap method to approximate critical values of the test and to verify its asymptotic validity. Finally, we illuminate the finite sample behaviour of the test by some simulations.
Identification of the novel KIR3DL1*079 allele from a southern Chinese Han individual
Authors: Sun G. , Zhen J.‐X. , Deng Z.‐H.
Published: May 2015

The novel KIR3DL1*079 allele differs from KIR3DL1*0150201 by a single mutation at CDS nt1119 G>T.
HPA‐3a neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia: a case report from China, and HPA‐3 allele frequencies in the GuangXi Zhuang and Han populations
Authors: Wu G.‐G. , Zhou Y. , Shen W.‐D. , Li L.‐L. , Liu J.‐L. , Zhong Z.‐L. , Bertrand G. , Kaplan C.
Published: May 2015

Background

Fetal or neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) results from a maternal alloimmunization against fetal platelet antigens. Since the implementation of serological methods for the detection of antiplatelet alloantibodies, it has been demonstrated that anti‐HPA‐3a alloantibodies have considerable heterogeneity. Consequently, the serologic diagnosis of FNAIT may be hampered, despite severe clinical signs and the absence of other causes of thrombocytopenia. Here, we report the first HPA‐3a feto‐maternal alloimmunization observed in the Chinese population.

Case study

A 28‐year‐old woman gave birth to her first child. After 2 h of life, the newborn presented signs of multiple subcutaneous bleeding and severe thrombocytopenia (7 × 109 platelets/l). Three years later, the woman gave birth to a second newborn, with petechial and signs of bleeding at 15 min of life. Brain ultrasound revealed the presence of an intracranial haemorrhage. The newborn recovered after 23 days.

Results

Investigations revealed the presence of a feto‐maternal HPA‐3a incompatibility (mother: HPA‐3bb; newborn: HPA‐3ab). Maternal anti‐HPA‐3a alloantibodies were detected using the MAIPA method. Both children were transfused with compatible HPA‐3bb platelets and perfused with intravenous immunoglobulins associated with corticoids.

Conclusions

This case shows that anti‐HPA‐3 maternal alloimmunization is a potentially devastating disease. The detection of anti‐HPA‐3 alloantibodies may be a challenge for platelet immunologists to ascertain the diagnosis. In case of bleeding, platelet transfusion is the therapy to be used in an emergency. For subsequent pregnancies, the mother should be followed up in a referral centre and antenatal management may be proposed.