Integration of embryo–endosperm interaction into a holistic and dynamic picture of seed development using a rice mutant with notched-belly kernels

Interaction between the embryo and endosperm affects seed development,an essential process in yield formation in crops such as rice.Signals that mediate communication between embryo and endosperm are largely unknown.We used the notched-belly(NB)mutant with impaired communication between embryo and endosperm to investigate the effect of the embryo on developmental staging of the endosperm and signaling pathways in the embryo that regulate endosperm development.Hierachical clustering of m RNA datasets from embryo and endosperm samples collected during development in NB and a wild type showed a delaying effect of the embryo on the developmental transition of the endosperm by extension of the middle stage.K-means clustering further identified coexpression modules of gene sets specific to embryo and endosperm development.Combined gene expression and biochemical analysis showed that T6 P–Sn RK1,gibberellin and auxin signaling by the embryo regulate endosperm developmental transition.We propose a new seed developmental staging system for rice and identify the most detailed signature of rice grain formation to date.These will direct genetic strategies for rice yield improvement.

Research and Reflection on Transit Oriented Development:a Case study of Shijiazhuang City,Hebei Province,China

Over the years,transit-oriented development (TOD) has provided many countries with valuable theoretical methods and experience to deal with urban traffic congestion,environmental pollution,energy consumption and other problems.After decades of rapid urbanization,many cities in China are facing more complex challenges in transportation than ever before.This paper introduces and critically analyzes the practical application of TOD under different backgrounds and modes.Taking Shijiazhuang City,Hebei Province,China as the main case,this paper discusses and evaluates the intervention role of TOD in China’s urban transportation planning,and critically reflects on the deficiency of TOD’s transformation from theory to practice.

Delivering Tram-Based Boulevards: Learning from Opportunities and Challenges in Three European City Case Studies

Increasing calls for zero-carbon cities invite transformative solutions for people and places within our cities around the world. Key to the transformation is cities and regions shifting in mobility away from fossil-fuel based car-oriented solutions. The paper investigates a range of case studies where “tram-based boulevards” have been planned or implemented to provide such opportunities. The case studies share a common broader policy objective: to transform the car-oriented or car-saturated areas to an intensified urban template based on a critical presence of dedicated mid-tier transit infrastructure and active transport. “Trams”, or mid-tier, mid-capacity transit when combined with Transit oriented development (TOD) along whole corridors can provide transformative pathways towards zero-carbon outcomes as well as multiple, strong urban benefits. However, many successful or instructive examples of this practice from non-English speaking countries, particularly in Europe, are underdocumented in the international literature. The paper addresses this gap by investigating opportunities and challenges evident in a range of European case studies. These are explored for insight towards policy learning particularly in New World cities seeking to transform into a zero-carbon and more transit-oriented template: How can decision-makers avoid repeating the identified pitfalls, and instead focus on emulating the successful approaches and outcomes? We conclude the need for recognition of the inherent synergies between transport and land use settings in any endeavour, and their translation into policy priorities in both fields of planning. We also conclude the importance of decision makers proactively identifying and critically appraising specific opportunities for change, concerning funding, technology, public opinion, stakeholder alliances or market dynamics, and capitalising on them at suitable moments in time.

Construction Method of Rail Transit Oriented Metropolitan Area under the Integration of Four Networks

In the process of metropolitan area integration,the current rail transit development is not enough to support the rapid expansion of the economy and population of the metropolitan area.It is necessary to attach importance to the important role of rail transit as a support system,promote the integrated development of the metropolitan area,and create a metropolitan area on the track.Through the problems in rail transit development,the development concept of “four networks integration” of rail transit is put forward.From multiple aspects of planning,construction and operation,reasonable promotion strategies are proposed,which could provide feasible suggestions for promoting the construction of metropolitan area on the track.

A Discourse on Human Settlements in Line with Scientiic View of Development

The primary theoretical framework of the Sciences of Human Settlements was established based on the researches and practices for decades. Nowadays, it is facing a new start in order to face the challenges of "transformation" and "restructuring" amid the process of urbanization. It means that, in both the theoretical and practical fields of the Sciences of Human Settlements, due attention should be paid to the discussions on urbanization strategies, the rethinking on balanced urban-rural development, the extension and integration of various disciplines, and the realization of experimental projects in various localities. The Sciences of Human Settlements should be more closely connected with related sciences and technologies and learn more from the traditional "Chinese wisdom," so as to establish the system of "Grand Science, Grand Humanism and Grand Arts." The practice of the Sciences of Human Settlements should highlight the integration of both strategies and methodologies, the completion of institutions, and the monitoring at the macro-level. Both the top-down strategic planning and design and the bottom-up comprehensive community construction are necessary. Now that the times of great transition brings us an opportunity to solve problems creatively, the Sciences of Human Settlements should be further researched and explored.

The hidden half comes into the spotlight: Peeking inside the black box of root developmental phases

Efficient use of natural resources(e.g.,light,water,and nutrients)can be improved with a tailored developmental program that maximizes the lifetime and fitness of plants.In plant shoots,a developmental phase represents a time window in which the meristem triggers the development of unique morphological and physiological traits,leading to the emergence of leaves,flowers,and fruits.Whereas developmental phases in plant shoots have been shown to enhance food production in crops,this phenomenon has remained poorly investigated in roots.In light of recent advances,we suggest that root development occurs in three main phases:root apical meristem appearance,foraging,and senescence.We provide compelling evidence suggesting that these phases are regulated by at least four developmental pathways:autonomous,non-autonomous,hormonal,and periodic.Root developmental pathways differentially coordinate organ plasticity,promoting morphological alterations,tissue regeneration,and cell death regulation.Furthermore,we suggest how nutritional checkpoints may allow progression through the developmental phases,thus completing the root life cycle.These insights highlight novel and exciting advances in root biology that may help maximize the productivity of crops through more sustainable agriculture and the reduced use of chemical fertilizers.