bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Ascertainment Bias of Microsatellite Allele Sizes: Impact on Estimates of Mutation Rates
Authors: Li Biao , Kimmel Marek 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Microsatellite loci play an important role as markers for identification, disease gene mapping, and evolutionary studies. Mutation rate, which is of fundamental importance, can be obtained from interspecies comparisons, which, however, are subject to ascertainment bias. This bias arises, for example, when a locus is selected on the basis of its large allele size in one species (cognate species 1), in which it is first discovered. This bias is reflected in average allele length in any noncognate species 2 being smaller than that in species 1. This phenomenon was observed in various pairs of species, including comparisons of allele sizes in human and chimpanzee. Various mechanisms were proposed to explain observed differences in mean allele lengths between two species. Here, we examine the framework of a single-step asymmetric and unrestricted stepwise mutation model with genetic drift. Analysis is based on coalescent theory. Analytical results are confirmed by simulations using the simuPOP software. The mechanism of ascertainment bias in this model is a tighter correlation of allele sizes within a cognate species 1 than of allele sizes in two different species 1 and 2. We present computations of the expected average allele size difference, given the mutation rate, population sizes of species 1 and 2, time of separation of species 1 and 2, and the age of the allele. We show that when the past demographic histories of the cognate and noncognate taxa are different, the rate and directionality of mutations affect the allele sizes in the two taxa differently from the simple effect of ascertainment bias. This effect may exaggerate or reverse the effect of difference in mutation rates. We reanalyze literature data, which indicate that despite the bias, the microsatellite mutation rate estimate in the ancestral population is consistently greater than that in either human or chimpanzee and the mutation rate estimate in human exceeds or equals that in chimpanzee with the rate of allele length expansion in human being greater than that in chimpanzee. We also demonstrate that population bottlenecks and expansions in the recent human history have little impact on our conclusions.
Reserves Booking in Upstream Fiscal Environments: Inconsistencies and a Proposal for Revised Guidelines
Authors: Demirmen Ferruh 
Published: August 2013

Summary
The lack of consistency has long hampered regulatory reserves booking in upstream fiscal systems, particularly in foreign jurisdictions. The root cause is ambiguity in reporting standards that leave much room for interpretation. Currently, no clear guidelines are issued by the US regulatory agencies for the recognition of reserves in different fiscal systems. Standards used by the industry go back to 1977, and they cater mostly to US situations. Oil companies use their own interpretive judgment to book reserves from across the spectrum of fiscal settings. Some of the reserves reported appear to be overstated.
Separate from inconsistency, reserves that are currently reported from foreign operations may bear little relationship to what the investment community generally perceives as reserves. Investors need better transparency and better comparability.
This paper addresses problems in the current reserves recognition practices in fiscal environments, and it proposes revised guidelines aimed to bring transparency and consistency in reserves recognition. We also provide relevant formulation. A key criterion for reserves recognition under the proposed scheme is ownership in kind. We exclude from consideration some of the practices currently used in the industry. It is hoped that this paper will stimulate further discussion on the subject and prompt the regulatory agencies to issue official guidance.
Bone-Targeting Endogenous Secretory Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products Rescues Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Takahashi Tatsuo , Katsuta Sayaka , Tamura Yusuke , Nagase Nozomi , Suzuki Keita , Nomura Masaaki , Tomatsu Shunji , Miyamoto Ken-ichi , Kobayashi Shinjiro 
Published: August 2013

AbstractRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory synovitis that leads to the destruction of bone and cartilage. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a multiligand membrane-bound receptor for high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) associated with development of RA by inducing production of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-6. We developed a bone-targeting therapeutic agent by tagging acidic oligopeptide to a nonmem-brane-bound form of RAGE (endogenous secretory RAGE [esRAGE]) functioning as a decoy receptor. We assessed its tissue distribution and therapeutic effectiveness in a murine model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Acidic oligopeptide-tagged esRAGE (D6-esRAGE) was localized to mineralized region in bone, resulting in the prolonged retention of more than 1 wk. Weekly administration of D6-esRAGE with a dose of 1 mg/kg to RA model mice significantly ameliorated inflammatory arthritis, synovial hyperplasia, cartilage destruction and bone destruction, while untagged esRAGE showed little effectiveness. Moreover, D6-esRAGE reduced plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6, while esRAGE reduced the levels of IL-1 and IL-6 to a lesser extent, suggesting that production of IL-1 and IL-6 reduced along the blockade of HMGB1 receptor downstream signals by D6-esRAGE could be attributed to remission of CIA. These findings indicate that D6-esRAGE enhances drug delivery to bone, leading to rescue of clinical and pathological lesions in murine CIA.
Lupus Nephritis: Enigmas, Conflicting Models and an Emerging Concept
Authors: Seredkina Natalya , van der Vlag Johan , Berden Jo , Mortensen Elin , Rekvig Ole Petter 
Published: August 2013

AbstractAutoantibodies to components of chromatin, which include double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), histones and nucleosomes, are central in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis. How anti-chromatin autoantibodies exert their nephritogenic activity, however, is controversial. One model assumes that autoantibodies initiate inflammation when they cross-react with intrinsic glomerular structures such as components of membranes, matrices or exposed nonchromatin ligands released from cells. Another model suggests glomerular deposition of autoantibodies in complex with chromatin, thereby inducing classic immune complex-mediated tissue damage. Recent data suggest acquired error of renal chromatin degradation due to the loss of renal DNasel enzyme activity is an important contributing factor to the development of lupus nephritis in lupus-prone (NZBxNZW)F1 mice and in patients with lupus nephritis. Down-regulation of DNasel expression results in reduced chromatin fragmentation and in deposition of extracellular chromatin-IgG complexes in glomerular basement membranes in individuals who produce IgG anti-chromatin autoantibodies. The main focus of the present review is to discuss whether exposed chromatin fragments in glomeruli are targeted by potentially nephritogenic anti-dsDNA autoantibodies or if the nephritogenic activity of these autoantibodies is explained by cross-reaction with intrinsic glomerular constituents or if both models coexist in diseased kidneys. In addition, the role of silencing of the renal DNasel gene and the biological consequences of reduced chromatin fragmentation in nephritic kidneys are discussed.
The Potential of Community-Wide Initiatives in the Prevention of Childhood Obesity
Authors: Canterbury Marna , Hedlund Sue 
Published: August 2013

In Brief
PowerUp is a community-wide initiative to make better eating and physical activity easy and fun for youths and the entire community as part of an effort to prevent childhood obesity. PowerUp works in partnership and on multiple levels to change the food and activity environment, engage the community, deliver programs, and support clinical interventions throughout the health care system and the community. Early results show promise that the initiative is inspiring community-level change.
Detection of the change point in the winter wheat experiment
Authors: Szczepańska Anna , Bakinowska Ewa 
Published: August 2013

SummaryThis paper concerns detection of the change point, which is treated as an abrupt change in the response function or one of its derivatives. The change point is identified using the semiparametric model and the theory given by Speckman (1994). The theory is illustrated by a real experiment in wchich the dry biomass of winter wheat is studied.
A geographical perspective on the Aral Sea crisis: three interpretations of an image
Authors: White Kristopher D. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
The Aral Sea crisis has gained global notoriety as a human-induced environmental disaster. This paper contextualizes this crisis within a broad geographical framework. Three interpretations of a single photographic image emblematic of the desiccation of the Aral Sea are related to general foci within the academic discipline of geography. These interpretations serve to guide a framing of the Aral Sea crisis within a geographical context. This is presented as a geographical problem, incorporating elements and processes salient to physical geography, human geography, and human-environment interaction. With ecological and societal sustainability in the immediate Aral Sea region still a pressing concern, geographers are well positioned to contribute relevant, research-driven insights.
Mini Cooper: Marketing Strategy, Digital Marketing, Brand & Ethics
Authors: Moiseieva Mariia 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
The report is designed to examine, analyse, and evaluate where appropriately the current Mini Cooper’s marketing strategy, its digital marketing initiative, branding, and the importance of ethical values in Mini Cooper as well as other organisations. That is important for understanding of the practical applications of marketing is achieved by applying theory to them.
It is determined that Mini’s marketing strategy has shifted in terms of targeting and brand positioning. As previously it was an affordable iconic British car, now it has become a cool luxury car dominantly for a young segment. Its international marketing strategy is differentiated in a way that a brand is built up on the historical iconic image of Mini for the UK and associated market, but it is not associated with any values in the past for the US customers. Overall, Mini’s marketing strategy is considered to be innovative, creative, and sometimes ‘silly’, which is of great value for its young energetic target audience.
Digital marketing initiative also corresponds to the latest IT and social trends worldwide by ‘digitalising’ marketing initiatives and active social networking with the consumers. Brand is a core competence and ‘everything’ for Mini. Marketing is centered on its brand, not vice versa. An analysis of the Mini’s strategy shows that it is efficient in terms of its branding strategy.
Ethical values also play an important role for Mini as well as the other organisations. It is important to pursue them nowadays as it helps to support the communities and the organisations both in the same direction and with dynamic progress.
Dexamethasone, but not meloxicam, suppresses proliferation of bovine CD25+CD4+ and CD25-CD4+ T cells
Authors: Maślanka T. , Jaroszewski J.J. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Recently, we found that dexamethasone caused a depletion of CD25-CD4+ T cells, but it increased the number of CD25highCD4+ and CD25lowCD4+ T cells. We also determined meloxicam-induced increase in the number of CD25highCD4+ T cells. In view of this, and taking into consideration the latest reports indicating that meloxicam shows an anti-proliferative effect on bovine peripheral blood mononuclear cells, it was considered purposeful to determine the effect of both drugs on proliferation of bovine CD25highCD4+, CD25lowCD4+ and CD25-CD4+ T cells. Flow cytometry analysis and 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine incorporation assay were applied to detect the cell proliferation. It was demonstrated that dexamethasone, but not meloxicam, significantly reduced cell proliferation within all three evaluated CD4+ T cell subpopulations. Thus, the depletion of CD25-CD4+ T cells by treatment with dexamethasone can partly be the effect of the anti-proliferative action of the drug, however, dexamethasone-induced increase in the number of CD25highCD4+ and CD25lowCD4+ T cells cannot be the result of enhanced proliferation of these cells.
Strongly Large Module Extensions
Authors: Ungor B. , Halicioglu S. , Kamal M.A. , Harmanci A. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
In this paper, we introduce strongly large submodules and investigate their properties. A submodule N of a right R-module M is said to be strongly large in case for any m ∈ M, s ∈ R with ms ̸= 0 there exists an r ∈ R such that mr ∈ N and mrs ̸= 0. In this note, we also define and study strongly large closed submodules and strongly large complement submodules
Control Affine Systems on Semisimple Three-Dimensional Lie Groups
Authors: Biggs R. , Remsing C.C. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
We classify the full-rank left-invariant control affine systems evolving on (real) semisimple three-dimensional Lie groups. This is accomplished by reducing the problem to that of classifying the affine subspaces of the Lie algebras so (2; 1) and so (3).
On Semi-P-Reducible Finsler Metrics
Authors: Tayebi A. , Najafi B. , Peyghan E. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
The class of semi-P-reducible manifolds contains the class of Randers manifolds and Landsberg manifolds as special cases. In this paper, we prove that every semi-P-reducible manifold with P-reducible metric reduces to a Landsberg manifold. Then we show that there is not exists P2-like Randers metric.
Attractors of Infinite Iterated Function Systems Containing Con
Authors: Dumitru Dan 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
We consider a complete ε-chainable metric space (X, d) and an infinite iterated function system (IIFS) formed by an infinite family of (ε, φ)-functions on X. The aim of this paper is to prove the existence and uniqueness of the attractors of such infinite iterated systems (IIFS) and to give some sufficient conditions for these attractors to be connected. Similar results are obtained in the case when the IIFS is formed by an infinite family of uniformly ε-locally strong Meir-Keeler functions.
Continued slowing of the Ross Ice Shelf and thickening of West Antarctic ice streams
Authors: Thomas R. , Scheuchl B. , Frederick E. , Harpold R. , Martin C. , Rignot E. 
Published: August 2013

AbstractAs part of the Ross Ice Shelf Geophysical and Glaciological Survey (RIGGS), ice velocities were measured on the Ross Ice Shelf (RIS) during 1973–78. Comparisons of these with velocity estimates at the same locations derived from RADARSAT synthetic aperture radar (SAR) measurements in 1997 and 2009 show velocity reduction in the southeast quadrant of the ice shelf by almost 200 m a−1, with deceleration rates increasing with time. Large areas of ice shelf in this region are lightly grounded, forming an ‘ice plain’ that increases local buttressing of the ice streams. ICESat measurements show this ice plain to be thickening. The observed decrease in ice-shelf velocities implies a total reduction in the mass of ice flowing into the RIS from the West Antarctic ice sheet (WAIS) by ∼23 Gt a−1, shifting the mass balance of the WAIS drainage basin from strongly negative in the 1970s to strongly positive in 2009. The resulting decrease in ice advection should lead to ice-shelf thinning further seaward of the ice plain. This thinning would reduce the lateral drag and back-stress of the shelf ice, further contributing to thinning through an increase in spreading rate. ICESat measurements show recent thinning of most of the freely floating ice shelf.
Energy-based binary segmentation of snow microtomographic images
Authors: Hagenmuller Pascal , Chambon Guillaume , Lesaffre Bernard , Flin Frédéric , Naaim Mohamed 
Published: August 2013

AbstractX-ray microtomography has become an essential tool for investigating the mechanical and physical properties of snow, which are tied to its microstructure. To allow a quantitative characterization of the microstructure, the grayscale X-ray attenuation coefficient image has to be segmented into a binary ice/pore image. This step, called binary segmentation, is crucial and affects all subsequent analysis and modeling. Common segmentation methods are based on thresholding. In practice, these methods present some drawbacks and often require time-consuming manual post-processing. Here we present a binary segmentation algorithm based on the minimization of a segmentation energy. This energy is composed of a data fidelity term and a regularization term penalizing large interface area, which is of particular interest for snow where sintering naturally tends to reduce the surface energy. The accuracy of the method is demonstrated on a synthetic image. The method is then successfully applied on microtomographic images of snow and compared to the threshold-based segmentation. The main advantage of the presented approach is that it benefits from local spatial information. Moreover, the effective resolution of the segmented image is clearly defined and can be chosen a priori.
Inhibition of Novel Reassortant Avian Influenza H7N9 Virus Infection in vitro with Three Antiviral Drugs, Oseltamivir, Peramivir and Favipiravir
Authors: Cao Rui-Yuan , Xiao Jun-Hai , Cao Bin , Li Song , Kumaki Yohichi , Zhong Wu 
Published: August 2013

Background: A novel reassortant avian-origin influenza A (H7N9) virus was isolated from respiratory specimens obtained from three patients and was identified as H7N9 in China. Antiviral agents are required to treat patients with avian influenza H7N9 virus infection. Methods: In this study, we assessed the antiviral potential of oseltamivir, peramivir, favipiravir (T-705), amantadine and rimantadine against novel reassortant avian-origin influenza H7N9 virus in vitro. Results: All three avian influenza H7N9 virus strains were sensitive to oseltamivir, peramivir and favipiravir (T-705), but resistant to amantadine and rimantadine. Conclusions: Our data show a pattern of antiviral sensitivity for this novel H7N9 strain of influenza that suggests the compounds oseltamivir, peramivir and favipiravir should be useful for therapy.
Surveillance of post-caesarean surgical site infections in a hospital with limited resources, Cambodia
Authors: Srun Sok , Sinath Yin , Seng An Thoun , Chea Meas , Borin Mony , Nhem Somary , Daniel Amanda , Chea Nora , Asgari Nima , Rachline Anne , Reed Za , Hoff Rodney , Cavailler Philippe , Goyet Sophie 
Published: August 2013

Introduction: In Cambodia, we implemented a pilot surveillance of superficial surgical site infections (SSSI) following caesarean deliveries (CD) in a provincial hospital, to estimate their incidence, describe their clinical management, and determine their causative pathogens. Methodology: Between October 2010 and February 2011, all women admitted for CD were included in the surveillance. Their clinical condition was monitored for a post-operative period of 30 days, including two assessments performed by surgeons. Cases were clinically diagnosed by surgeons, with bacterial cultures performed. Results: Of the 222 patients admitted for CD, 176 (79.3%) were monitored for 30 days. Of these, 11 were diagnosed with a SSSI, giving an incidence rate of 6.25% (95% CI 3.2-10.9). Four of the cases (36.4%) were detected after hospital discharge. Length of hospitalization was significantly longer for the SSSI cases. All 222 patients were prescribed antibiotics. Ampicillin was administered intravenously to 98.6% of them, with subsequent oral amoxicillin given to 82.9%. Three of six pus samples collected were positive on culture: two with Staphylococcus aureus and one with Staphylococcus lugdunensis. One S.aureus was methicillin resistant (MRSA). The other was clindamycin and erythromycin resistant. Conclusion: Surveillance of health-care associated infections in a setting with limited resources is challenging but feasible. Effective post-discharge surveillance was essential for the estimation of the incidence rate of SSSI following caesarean deliveries. This surveillance led to a peer-review of medical practices.
Long-Term IgG Response to Porcine Neu5Gc Antigens without Transmission of PERV in Burn Patients Treated with Porcine Skin Xenografts
Authors: Scobie Linda , Padler-Karavani Vered , Le Bas-Bernardet Stephanie , Crossan Claire , Blaha Josef , Matouskova Magda , Hector Ralph D. , Cozzi Emanuele , Vanhove Bernard , Charreau Beatrice , Blancho Gilles , Bourdais Ludovic , Tallacchini Mariachiara , Ribes Juan M. , Yu Hai , Chen Xi , Kracikova Jitka , Broz Ludomir , Hejnar Jiri , Vesely Pavel , Takeuchi Yasuhiro , Varki Ajit , Soulillou Jean-Paul 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Acellular materials of xenogenic origin are used worldwide as xenografts, and phase I trials of viable pig pancreatic islets are currently being performed. However, limited information is available on transmission of porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) after xenotransplantation and on the long-term immune response of recipients to xenoantigens. We analyzed the blood of burn patients who had received living pig-skin dressings for up to 8 wk for the presence of PERV as well as for the level and nature of their long term (maximum, 34 y) immune response against pig Ags. Although no evidence of PERV genomic material or anti-PERV Ab response was found, we observed a moderate increase in anti-αGal Abs and a high and sustained anti–non-αGal IgG response in those patients. Abs against the nonhuman sialic acid Neu5Gc constituted the anti–non-αGal response with the recognition pattern on a sialoglycan array differing from that of burn patients treated without pig skin. These data suggest that anti-Neu5Gc Abs represent a barrier for long-term acceptance of porcine xenografts. Because anti-Neu5Gc Abs can promote chronic inflammation, the long-term safety of living and acellular pig tissue implants in recipients warrants further evaluation.
La télévision française et les « voix québécoises » populaires : le trompe-l’oeil d’un étiquetage médiatique
Authors: Rudent Catherine 
Published: August 2013

La télévision et d’autres médias français ont pris l’habitude, entre 2001 et 2004, de parler de « voix québécoises », comme s’il s’agissait d’un ensemble homogène dans les chansons d’aujourd’hui. Mais cette étiquette est trompeuse : sous son apparence unificatrice on constate la dispersion des réalités musicales. L’analyse de deux chansons le montre : entre « Parle-moi » par Isabelle Boulay et « Chéri tu ronfles » de Lynda Lemay, les contrastes se multiplient, concernant la forme, le langage harmonique, les techniques vocales utilisées et le rapport entre texte et voix.
Un entretien avec Diane Labrosse
Authors: Cornell Andrea-Jane 
Published: August 2013

Cet entretien avec Diane Labrosse a été réalisé à Montréal en décembre 2004 dans les locaux de Productions SuperMusique, dans le cadre du projet Dedans/Dehors du studio coordonné par Dre Andra McCartney de l’Université Concordia.
Labrosse se définit comme musicienne, même si elle considère que ce titre ne couvre pas vraiment l’ensemble des rôles assumés dans divers ensembles et projets depuis 25 ans quelle exerce ce métier. L’essentiel de son activité est à titre de conceptrice sonore, en particulier dans les projets pour le théâtre, les concerts « live » et les performances de musique improvisée avec d’autres musiciens, danseurs ou acteurs de théâtre. Avec son instrument de prédilection, un échantillonneur, Diane crée des ambiances sonores composées de sons inhabituels, de bruits et de textures, avec un certain penchant pour des modifications brusques de hauteurs.