bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sludge accumulation in an anaerobic pond and viability of helminth eggs: a case study in Burkina Faso
Authors: Konate Y. , Maiga A. H. , Wethe J. , Basset D. , Casellas C. , Picot B.
Published: February 2010

Accumulation rates and pathogen concentrations in primary stabilization pond sludges in developing countries are important parameters for adequate sludge management and the safeguarding of public health with sludge reuse in agriculture. An anaerobic pond has been investigated for sludge accumulation rates and helminth egg viability after four years of operation in Burkina Faso. The rate of sludge accumulation was measured at 0.037 m3/capita-year or 2.26 kg dry weight/capita-year. An equation describing vertical distribution of total solids in the accumulated sludge was found to be adequately represented by a regression equation. Influent helminth egg concentrations were reduced on average by 90% in the anaerobic pond effluent. Ascaris lumbricoides and Ancylostoma sp. were the most common eggs present in the sludge after four years of operation. The average concentration of helminth eggs in pond sludge was 536 eggs/g TS, and the percentages of viability ranged from 10.8% (47 viable eggs/g TS) to 57.2 (1,772 viable eggs/g TS, with an average rate of 36% (336 viable eggs/g TS). From a sludge depth and section study, egg viability was found to be randomly distributed in the sludge layer.
Taking wind into account in the design of waste stabilisation ponds
Authors: Badrot-Nico F. , Guinot V. , Brissaud F.
Published: February 2010

Up to now, most investigations on the dependency of the fluid flow patterns and performance of waste stabilisation ponds (WSPs) on wind speed and direction and pond layout have been performed using 2D and 3D CFD steady state isothermal models. 3D non steady state models integrating thermal processes and boundary conditions taking into account the full influence of meteorological factors are likely to provide more realistic predictions of WSP performance. Such modelling was undertaken for 4 pond layouts, 2 without baffles and 2 with baffles. Wind speed and direction were kept constant throughout each simulation while other meteorological forcings were derived from field measurements. Twelve wind directions and 2, 4 and 6 m s−1 wind speeds were considered for each WSP layout. Simulations allowed verifying that the pond performance is dependent on the wind direction and velocity, that baffles may improve WSP performance and that the addition of well-designed baffles has the advantage of reducing its sensitivity to the wind.
Neonate - newborn condition and prematurity with breech delivery
Authors: Djordjevic Momcilo , Jovanovic Bozidar , Sazdanovic Predrag , Djordjevic Gordana
Published: February 2010

Introduction. Before birth, most of foetuses located in mother's uterus have head presentation down towards the breech exit. Preterm delivery presents the delivery before the end of the 37th gestational week. Etiology of preterm breech deliveries is the same as of the ones at term, such as uterine malformations and myomas, polyhydramnion, foetal abnormalities, high parity, short umbical cord, placenta previa. The complications include passing of the body through insufficiently dilated cervical channel and 'capturing' of the head, umbilical cord prolapse, intrapartal hipoxy, discoordinated delivery, aspiration pneumonia, traumatic injuries. The basic aim of the research was to determine prematurity, mortality, colority of the amniotic fluid, and newborn condition with breech deliveries comparing to the head presentation deliveries. Material and methods. The study group consisted of 282 newborns that came from breech deliveries and the same number of the controls born with head presentation. In cases of breech deliveries there was greatly higher quantity of green and meconium amniotic fluid, significantly higher prematurity, significantly lower average Apgar score as well as seven times higher mortality of newborns comparing with the values in head presentation deliveries. Discussion. Meconium amniotic fluid can result in greater risk than aspiration pneumonia which is the characteristics of breech deliveries. There are more causes endangering fetal vitality after breech delivery and those are along with prematurity, gretaer number of congenital malformations, often traumas which depend on delivery course as well as hipoxy caused during delivery. Prematurity of fetus is one of risk factors resulting in breech delivery but it is also its main characteristics. Conclusion. Breech delivery brings greater risk measured by Apgar score values, appearance of meconium amniotic fluid, prematurity with its consequences and perinatal mortality.
Treatment of recurrent chronic subdural hematoma in a patient with Arachnoid cyst
Authors: Djilvesi Djula , Vulekovic Petar , Cigic Tomislav , Kojadinovic Zeljko , Horvat Igor , Karan Mladen
Published: February 2010

Introduction. Arachnoid cysts are congenital fluid-filled compartments within the cerebrospinal fluid cisterns and major cerebral fissure, between two layers of the arachnoid membrane. They can develop anywhere within the subarachnoid space, most frequently located within the Sylvian fissure in the middle fossa. In young patients with the arachnoid cyst and history od head trauma chronic subdural hemathoma is present up to 4.6%. Case report. This is a case report of a 21 year old male, with left temporal lobe arachnoid cyst. Three months after minor head injury the patient was admitted to our clinic with chronic subdural hematoma compressing the surrounding tissue. The scull burr-hole trepanation was performed and the hematoma was drained. The control CT scan showed a reduced size of the chronic subdural hematoma with the smaller subdural collection of the fresh blood. Three weeks after the intervention the new CT scan showed the recurrence of the chronic subdural hematoma. The second trepanation was performed and the hematoma was drained. After the second operation, the patient was with no neurological disorders and subjective complaints. Three months after the second intervention, the control CT scan visualized only the arachnoid cyst in the temporal lobe, without the presence of the subdural hematoma. Conclusion. We conclude that a chronic subdural hematoma and reccurrent chronic subdural hematoma in patients with the arachnoid cyst in the fossa media should be drained by applying the method of burr-hole trepanation. In the patient with no subjective complaints and neurological disorders, the operative treatment of the arachnoid cyst is not considered necessary.
Diabetes and Depression: Some Thoughts to Think About
Authors: Solowiejczyk Joe
Published: February 2010

In Brief

It is a well-known clinical reality that diabetes and depression are often seen together. What is not so well known or discussed is the phenomenon called “diabetes distress,” usually several feeling states related to depression but not severe enough to be diagnosed as such. This article explores the phenomenon of diabetes distress and offer clinicians some assessment and treatment intervention strategies.
Depression Among Adults With Diabetes: Prevalence, Impact, and Treatment Options
Authors: de Groot Mary , Kushnick Michael , Doyle Todd , Merrill Jennifer , McGlynn Mark , Shubrook Jay , Schwartz Frank
Published: February 2010

In Brief

Patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are two times more likely to experience depression than their peers without diabetes. Comorbid depression results in deleterious effects on glycemic control, worsened diabetes complications, functional disability, and premature mortality. Once identified, depression can be effectively treated with antidepressant medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Patients and providers should monitor depressive symptoms to identify their recurrence and work collaboratively to address barriers to care that exist in both urban and rural areas.
A Model of Community-Based Behavioral Intervention for Depression in Diabetes: Program ACTIVE
Authors: de Groot Mary , Kushnick Michael , Doyle Todd , Merrill Jennifer , McGlynn Mark , Shubrook Jay , Schwartz Frank
Published: February 2010

In Brief

Depression affects one in four people with diabetes and significantly affects diabetes health. Earlier studies of the treatment of depression have documented that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exercise have each been found to be effective in treating depression in people with and without diabetes in the context of medical settings. Individuals in rural areas lack regular access to medical centers and require treatment options that may be adapted for local communities. To date, no studies have combined CBT and exercise for people with diabetes. This article presents a translational behavioral depression intervention study designed for individuals with type 2 diabetes in a rural Appalachian region as a model of an interdisciplinary approach to the treatment of depression in diabetes.
Screening and Identification of Children and Adolescents at Risk for Depression During a Diabetes Clinic Visit
Authors: Monaghan Maureen , Singh Chandra , Streisand Randi , Cogen Fran R.
Published: February 2010

In Brief

Among patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, depression is one of the most commonly occurring comorbid conditions. A dual diagnosis of depression and diabetes has been linked to poor adherence and decreased daily diabetes self-care and often leads to suboptimal metabolic control and increased diabetes-related complications. Pediatric diabetes clinicians are in a unique position to identify behavior changes over time and provide early identification and preventive intervention for children and adolescents at risk for depression. This article provides an overview of the differential diagnosis process that pediatric clinicians face and practical advice for providers when evaluating and addressing depressive symptoms during routine diabetes clinic visits.
Living With Depression and Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes in Late Adolescence and Young Adulthood: Lessons From Research
Authors: Anderson Barbara J.
Published: February 2010

In Brief

This article reviews research related to living with depression and diabetes in the post—high school and young-adult periods. Clinical lessons for pediatric and adult diabetes care providers are distilled from this evidence base.
Comparing the Processes: Accreditation and Recognition
Authors: Mensing Carolé
Published: February 2010

Diabetes education programs are developed to serve the diabetes community by offering quality education that meets a set of standards and is then eligible for third-party insurance reimbursement. Three organizations are authorized by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to determine whether diabetes education programs meet required standards. Each of the three relies on the 2007 edition of the national Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education. This article summarizes similarities among and unique qualities of each of the organization's approaches to assuring quality.
Determination of metoprolol tartrate by capillary isotachophoresis
Authors: Kurzawa Marzanna
Published: February 2010

This paper describes two isotachophoretic methods of metoprolol tartrate (MT) determination in pure and dosage forms. The first method was used for direct analysis where the following electrolyte system was applied: 10 mmol dm−3 3-morpholino-2-hydroxypropanesulfonic acid, 10 mmol dm−3 NaCl, 2 % hydroxyethylocelulose as leading (LE) and 10 mmol dm−3 glycyl-glycine as terminating (TE) electrolytes. The second method was used for indirect analysis of MT as tartrate ions. In this case, the leading electrolyte consisted of 10 mmol dm−3 HCl, β-alanine (BALA), pH 4-5, and the terminating one of 5 mmol dm−3 glutamic acid, 10 mmol dm−3 β-alanine. Calibration curves were calculated as follows: for system A: y = (0.52 ± 0.05)x − (0.9 ± 0.2) (LOD = 13.0 mg dm−3, LOQ = 31.7 mg dm−3); and for system B: y = (0.240 +- 0.001)x + (0.18 ± 0.06) (LOD = 1.8 mg dm−3, LOQ = 4.4 mg dm−3). The isotachophoretic method was compared with the pharmacopoeial one by statistical tests.
Suicide in Selected Occupations in Queensland: Evidence from the State Suicide Register
Authors: Andersen Kirsty , Hawgood Jacinta , Klieve Helen , Kõlves Kairi , De Leo Diego
Published: February 2010

Objective: Prior research has suggested an association between suicide and certain occupations. The aim of the present study was to report on suicide rates in selected occupations in Queensland (QLD).

Method: Suicide mortality data from the QLD Suicide Register and population data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics were obtained for the period 1990–2006. Suicide rates were calculated for each occupational group and compared to rates within the general population (15–64 year age group) and the employed population of QLD.

Results: There was significantly higher risk of suicide for male subjects in the agricultural, transport and construction sectors of QLD. High suicide rates were also found in female nurses, artists, agricultural workers and cleaners, while education professionals (of both genders) appeared at lower risk.

Conclusions: The significantly higher suicide rates for employees of the agriculture, construction, and transport industries indicate a need for further research into the occupation-specific conditions and individual or other social–environmental factors that may accentuate suicide risk within these professions. Use of higher quality occupational data is also warranted in future studies.
Angiogenesis and Melanoma
Authors: Ribatti Domenico , Annese Tiziana , Longo Vito
Published: February 2010

Angiogenesis occurs in pathological conditions, such as tumors, where a specific critical point in tumor progression is the transition from the avascular to the vascular phase. Tumor angiogenesis depends mainly on the release by neoplastic cells of growth factors specific for endothelial cells, which are able to stimulate the growth of the host’s blood vessels. This article summarizes the literature concerning the relationship between angiogenesis and human melanoma progression. The recent applications of antiangiogenic agents which interfere with melanoma progression are also described.
(Benzoylamino)methyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate
Authors: Popovski Emil , Mladenovska Kristina
Published: February 2010

(Benzoylamino)methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (“Benzamidomethylparaben”) (3) was obtained from a reaction of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (2) with a dioxane suspension of (benzamidomethyl)triethylammonium chloride (1). The phenolic group in 2 cannot be benzamidomethylated with 1 in aqueous media.
Estimating Arrival Numbers for Informal Recreation: A Geographical Approach and Case Study of British Woodlands
Authors: Jones Andy , Wright Jan , Bateman Ian , Schaafsma Marije
Published: February 2010

This paper describes a novel methodology for generating models of demand for informal outdoor recreation. We analyze visitor data from multiple forest sites across Great Britain. We introduce a wide range of variables typically omitted from most economic demand models of recreation. These include on-site characteristics, and off-site locational drivers of visitation including substitute and complement availability. A Poisson multilevel model is used to model visitor counts, and the methodology is applied to a dataset of more than 10,000 visits to open-access woodland sites. Results confirm it identifies a broader range of demand drivers than previously observed. The use of nationally available explanatory variables enhances the transferability and hence general applicability of the methodology.
Symmetry Analysis in Mechanistic Studies of Nucleophilic Substitution and β-Elimination Reactions
Authors: Sun Xiaoping
Published: February 2010

A mechanistic study of the bimolecular nucleophilic substitution (SN2) reaction for halomethane CH3X (X = Cl, Br, or I) is approached by using symmetry principles and molecular orbital theory. The electrophilicity of the functionalized sp3–carbon is attributable to a 2p-orbital-based antibonding MO along the C–X bond. This antibonding MO, upon accepting an electron pair from a nucleophile, gives rise to dissociation of the C–X bond and formation of a new Nuc–C bond. Correlations are made between the molecular orbitals of reactants (Nuc- and CH3X) and products (NucCH3 and X-). Similar symmetry analysis has been applied to mechanistic study of the bimolecular b-elimination (E2) reactions of haloalkanes. It well explains the necessity of an anti-coplanar arrangement of the Cα–X and Cβ–H bonds for an E2 reaction (anti-elimination). Having this structural arrangement, the bonding Cα–X (σC-X) and antibonding Cβ–H (σC-H*) orbitals become symmetry–match. They can partially overlap resulting in increase in electron density in σC-H*, which weakens and polarizes the Cβ–H bond making the β-H acidic. An E2 reaction can readily take place in the presence of a base. The applications of symmetry analysis to the SN2 and E2 reactions represent a new approach to studying organic mechanisms.
On the Physical Reasons for the Extension of Symmetry Groups in Molecular Spectroscopy
Authors: Lattanzi Franca , Di Lauro Carlo
Published: February 2010

Several situations of general interest, in which the symmetry groups usually applied to spectroscopy problems need to be extended, are reviewed. It is emphasized that any symmetry group of geometrical operations to be used in Molecular Spectroscopy should be extended for completeness by considering the time reversal operator, as far as the Hamiltonian is invariant with respect to the inversion of the direction of motion. This can explain the degeneracy of pairs of vibrational and rotational states spanning the so-called separably degenerate irreducible representations, in symmetric tops of low symmetry, and Kramers degeneracy in odd electron molecules in the absence of magnetic fields. An extension with account of time reversal is also useful to determine relative phase conventions on vibration-rotation wavefunctions, which render all vibration-rotation matrix elements real. An extension of a molecular symmetry group may be required for molecules which can attain different geometries by large amplitude periodical motions, if such motions are hindered and are not completely free. Special cases involving the internal rotation are discussed in detail. It is observed that the symmetry classification of vibrational modes involving displacements normal to the internal rotation axis is not univocal, but can be done in several ways, which actually correspond to different conventions on the separation of vibration and internal rotation in the adopted basis functions. The symmetry species of the separate vibrational and torsional factors of these functions depend on the adopted convention.
TNF, Pig CD86, and VCAM-1 Identified as Potential Targets for Intervention in Xenotransplantation of Pig Chondrocytes
Authors: Sommaggio Roberta , Máñez Rafael , Costa Cristina
Published: February 2010

Xenotransplantation of genetically engineered porcine chondrocytes may benefit many patients who suffer cartilage defects. In this work, we sought to elucidate the molecular bases of the cellular response to xenogeneic cartilage. To this end, we isolated pig costal chondrocytes (PCC) and conducted a series of functional studies. First, we determined by flow cytometry the cell surface expression of multiple immunoregulatory proteins in resting conditions or after treatment with human TNF-α, IL-1α, or IL-1β, which did not induce apoptosis. TNF-α and to a lesser extent IL-1α led to a marked upregulation of SLA I, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1 on PCC. SLA II and E-selectin remained undetectable in all the conditions assayed. Notably, CD86 was constitutively expressed at moderate levels, whereas CD80 and CD40 were barely detected. To assess their function, we next studied the interaction of PCC with human monoblastic U937 and Jurkat T cells. U937 cells adhered to resting and in a greater proportion to cytokine-stimulated PCC. Consistent with its expression pattern, pig VCAM-1 was key, mediating the increased adhesion after cytokine stimulation. We also conducted coculture experiments with U937 and PCC and measured the release of pig and human cytokines. Stimulated PCC secreted IL-6 and IL-8, whereas U937 secreted IL-8 in response to PCC. Finally, coculture of PCC with Jurkat in the presence of PHA led to a marked Jurkat activation as determined by the increase in IL-2 secretion. This process was dramatically reduced by blocking pig CD86. In summary, CD86 and VCAM-1 on pig chondrocytes may be important triggers of the xenogeneic cellular immune response. These molecules together with TNF could be considered potential targets for intervention in order to develop xenogeneic therapies for cartilage repair.
Identification of New Pathogenic Players in Lupus: Autoantibody-Secreting Cells Are Present in Nephritic Kidneys of (NZBxNZW)F1 Mice
Authors: Lacotte Stéphanie , Dumortier Hélène , Décossas Marion , Briand Jean-Paul , Muller Sylviane
Published: February 2010

An important hallmark of systemic lupus erythematosus is the production of autoantibodies specific for nuclear Ags, among which nucleosomes and their constituents, DNA and histones. It is widely admitted that some of these autoantibodies contribute largely in lupus pathogenesis because of their nephritogenic potential. However, the underlying mechanisms are still debated. In this study, we analyzed the autoimmune response against histone H2B during the course of the disease in lupus-prone (NZBxNZW)F1 mice, both in lymphoid organs and kidneys, and we assessed its potential involvement in lupus pathogenicity. We found that the N-terminal region of histone H2B represents a preferential target for circulating autoantibodies, which kinetics of appearance positively correlates with disease development. Furthermore, immunization of preautoimmune (NZBxNZW)F1 mice with H2B peptide 1–25 accelerates the disease. Kidney eluates from diseased (NZBxNZW)F1 mice do contain IgG Abs reacting with this peptide, and this H2B sequence was found to be accessible to specific Ab probes in Ag-containing deposits detected in nephritic kidneys. Finally, compared with control normal mice and to young preautoimmune (NZBxNZW)F1 animals, the frequency of cells secreting autoantibodies reacting with peptide 1–25 was significantly raised in the spleen and bone marrow and most importantly on a pathophysiological point of view, locally, in nephritic kidneys of diseased (NZBxNZW)F1 mice. Altogether our results demonstrate the existence in (NZBxNZW)F1 mice of both a systemic and local B cell response targeting the N-terminal region of histone H2B, and highlight the potential implication of this nuclear domain in lupus pathology.
Structural Properties of G,T‐Parallel Duplexes
Authors: Aviñó Anna , Cubero Elena , Gargallo Raimundo , González Carlos , Orozco Modesto , Eritja Ramon
Published: February 2010

The structure of G,T‐parallel‐stranded duplexes of DNA carrying similar amounts of adenine and guanine residues is studied by means of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and UV‐ and CD spectroscopies. In addition the impact of the substitution of adenine by 8‐aminoadenine and guanine by 8‐aminoguanine is analyzed. The presence of 8‐aminoadenine and 8‐aminoguanine stabilizes the parallel duplex structure. Binding of these oligonucleotides to their target polypyrimidine sequences to form the corresponding G,T‐parallel triplex was not observed. Instead, when unmodified parallel‐stranded duplexes were mixed with their polypyrimidine target, an interstrand Watson‐Crick duplex was formed. As predicted by theoretical calculations parallel‐stranded duplexes carrying 8‐aminopurines did not bind to their target. The preference for the parallel‐duplex over the Watson‐Crick antiparallel duplex is attributed to the strong stabilization of the parallel duplex produced by the 8‐aminopurines. Theoretical studies show that the isomorphism of the triads is crucial for the stability of the parallel triplex.
Comparison of Radiography and Ultrasonography for Diagnosis of Diaphragmatic Hernia in Bovines
Authors: Athar Hakim , Mohindroo Jitender , Singh Kiranjeet , Kumar Ashwani , Raghunath Mulinti
Published: February 2010

The present study was conducted on 101 animals suffering from thoracoabdominal disorders; out of which twenty seven animals (twenty six buffaloes and one cow) were diagnosed with diaphragmatic hernia based on clinical signs, radiography, ultrasonography, and left flank laparorumenotomy. Radiography alone confirmed diaphragmatic hernia in 18 cases (66.67%) with a sac-like structure cranial to the diaphragm. In 15 animals the sac contained metallic densities while in three cases a sac-like structure with no metallic densities was present. Ultrasonography was helpful in confirming diaphragmatic hernia in 23 cases (85.18%) and ultrasonographically reticular motility was evident at the level of 4th/5th intercostal space in all the animals. B+M mode ultrasonography was used for the first time for diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia in bovines and the results suggested that ultrasonography was a reliable diagnostic modality for diaphragmatic hernia in bovines.
Representation zeta functions of wreath products with finite groups
Authors: Bartholdi Laurent , de la Harpe Pierre
Published: February 2010

Let

G

be a group which has a finite number

r_n(G)

of irreducible linear representations in

\mathrm{GL}_n(\mathbb C)

for all

n \geq 1

. Let

\zeta(G,s) = \sum_{n = 1}^\infty r_n(G)n^{−s}

be its representation zeta function.

First, in case

G = H \wr_X Q

is a permutational wreath product with respect to a permutation group

Q

on a finite set

X

, we establish a formula for

\zeta(G,s)

in terms of the zeta functions of

H

and of subgroups of

Q

, and of the Möbius function associated to the lattice

\Pi_Q(X)

of partitions of

X

in orbits under subgroups of

Q

.

Then we consider groups

W(Q,k) = (\cdots (Q \wr_X Q) \wr_X Q ···) \wr_X Q

which are iterated wreath products (with

k

factors

Q

), and several related infinite groups

W(Q)

, including the profinite group

\lim_{\leftarrow  k}W(Q,k)

, a locally finite group

\lim_kW(Q,k)

, and several finitely generated dense subgroups of

\lim_{\leftarrow  k}W(Q,k)

. Under convenient hypotheses (in particular

Q

should be perfect), we show that

r_n(W(Q)) < \infty

for all

n \geq 1

, and we establish that the Dirichlet series

\zeta(W(Q),s)

has a finite and positive abscissa of convergence

\sigma_0 = \sigma_0(W(Q))

. Moreover, the function

\zeta(W(Q),s)

satisfies a remarkable functional equation involving

\zeta(W(Q),es)

for

e \in \{1,\dots,d\}

, where

d = |X|

. As a consequence of this, we exhibit some properties of the function, in particular that

\zeta(W(Q),s)

has a root-type singularity at

\sigma_0

, with a finite value at

\sigma_0

and a Puiseux expansion around

\sigma_0

.

We finally report some numerical computations for

Q = A_5

and

Q = \mathrm{PGL}_3(\mathbb F_2)

.
Sigma invariants of direct products of groups
Authors: Bieri Robert , Geoghegan Ross
Published: February 2010

The Product Conjecture for the homological Bieri–Neumann–Strebel–Renz invariants is proved over a field. Under certain hypotheses the Product Conjecture is shown to also hold over

ℤ

, even though D. Schütz has recently shown that the Conjecture is false in general over

ℤ

. Our version over

ℤ

is applied in a joint paper with D. Kochloukova [5] to show that for all

n

Thompson’s group

F

contains subgroups of type

F_n

which are not of type

\mathrm{FP}_{n + 1}

.
The Sigma invariants of Thompson’s group $F$
Authors: Bieri Robert , Geoghegan Ross , Kochloukova Dessislava H.
Published: February 2010

Thompson’s group

F

is the group of all increasing dyadic

\mathrm{PL}

homeomorphisms of the closed unit interval. We compute

Σ^m(F)

and

Σ^m(F;ℤ)

, the homotopical and homological Bieri–Neumann–Strebel–Renz invariants of

F

, and show that

Σ^m(F) = Σ^m(F;ℤ)

. As an application, we show that, for every

m

,

F

has subgroups of type

F_{m − 1}

which are not of type

\mathrm{FP}_m

(thus certainly not of type

F_m

).
On right-angled Artin groups without surface subgroups
Authors: Kim Sang-hyun
Published: February 2010

We study the class N of graphs, the right-angled Artin groups defined on which do not contain closed hyperbolic surface subgroups. We prove that a presumably smaller class N' is closed under amalgamating along complete subgraphs, and also under adding bisimplicial edges. It follows that chordal graphs and chordal bipartite graphs belong to N'.
Amenable actions of amalgamated free products
Authors: Moon Soyoung
Published: February 2010

We prove that the amalgamated free product of two free groups of rank two over a common cyclic subgroup admits an amenable, faithful, transitive action on an infinite countable set. We also show that any finite index subgroup admits such an action, which applies for example to surface groups and fundamental groups of surface bundles over

\mathbb S^1

.
Immersed turnovers in hyperbolic 3-orbifolds
Authors: Rafalski Shawn
Published: February 2010

We show that any immersion, which is not a covering of an embedded 2-orbifold, of a totally geodesic hyperbolic turnover in a complete orientable hyperbolic 3-orbifold is contained in a hyperbolic 3-suborbifold with totally geodesic boundary, called the “turnover core”, whose volume is bounded from above by a function depending only on the area of the given turnover. Furthermore, we show that, for a given type of turnover, there are only finitely many possibilities for the turnover core. As a corollary, if the volume of a complete orientable hyperbolic 3-orbifold is at least 2π and if the fundamental group of the orbifold contains the fundamental group of a hyperbolic turnover (i.e., a triangle group), then the orbifold contains an embedded hyperbolic turnover.
On a series of finite automata defining free transformation groups
Authors: Vorobets Mariya , Vorobets Yaroslav
Published: February 2010

We introduce two series of finite automata starting from the so-called Aleshin and Bellaterra automata. We prove that transformations defined by automata from the first series generate a free non-Abelian group of infinite rank, while automata from the second series give rise to the free product of infinitely many groups of order 2.
Transport of interfaces with surface tension by 2D viscous ﬂows
Authors: Ambrose David M. , Lopes Filho Milton C. , Nussenzveig Lopes Helena J. , Strauss Walter A.
Published: February 2010

We consider the problem of finding a global weak solution for two-dimensional, incompressible viscous flow on a torus, containing a surface-tension bearing curve transported by the flow. This is the simplest case of a class of two-phase flows considered by Plotnikov in [16] and Abels in [1]. Our work complements Abels’ analysis by examining this special case in detail. We construct a family of approximations and show that the limit of these approximations satisfies, globally in time, an incomplete set of equations in the weak sense. In addition, we examine criteria for closure of the limit system, we find conditions which imply nontrivial dependence of the limiting solution on the surface tension parameter, and we obtain a new system of evolution equations which models our flow-interface problem, in a form that may be useful for further analysis and for numerical simulations.
Estímulo vibracional na espasticidade
Authors: Beck Eddy Krueger , Nogueira Neto Guilherme Nunes , Nohama Percy
Published: February 2010

A espasticidade é um distúrbio neurológico proveniente da lesão de um neurônio motor superior e da desorganização dos circuitos neurais da medula espinhal, que acarreta alterações sensório-motoras de graduações variadas. Técnicas farmacológicas, fisioterápicas e cirúrgicas são utilizadas para reduzir a espasticidade. Os objetivos deste artigo são apresentar e discutir a viabilidade de utilizar estímulos vibracionais no tratamento fisioterápico. Ondas oscilatórias geradas por estímulos vibracionais aplicados ao paciente são captadas por receptores periféricos causando ilusão de movimento. A plasticidade neural é evocada por estímulos físicos, como o movimento da perna, ou artificialmente, com estimulação elétrica funcional. Aplicando-se estímulo vibracional sobre orgão tendinoso de Golgi e utilizando-se de análise por imagem, pesquisadores obtiveram ativação de diversas regiões cerebrais, corroborando a hipótese de que o estímulo vibracional é eficaz nos distúrbios de movimento de origem neurológica. Os parâmetros ajustados para proporcionar ilusão de movimento encontrados na literatura são: frequência entre 1 e 140 Hz; força entre 0,5 e 9 N; e amplitude de 0,005 a 2 mm. Da pesquisa realizada, conclui-se que a vibração sobre receptores sensoriais acarreta em ativação cortical e esporadicamente na ativação motora agonista ou antagonista. Do ponto de vista clínico, o estímulo vibracional mostra-se eficaz no tratamento da espasticidade.
Oriented Grain Growth Analyses With In Situ Annealing Experiments Using High Energy Synchrotron Radiation
Authors: Tommaseo Caterina Elisabetta , Klein Helmut
Published: February 2010

The development of the recrystallization and annealing textures of Al–Mn alloys with 0.4, 0.7 and 1 wt.‐% manganese is analyzed using specific techniques that allow the detection of changes in grain orientation during in situ annealing. In order to investigate the evolution of texture components during annealing, highly rolled samples were annealed from room temperature to 500 °C at a constant heating rate. The advantage of in situ annealing experiments using synchrotron radiation is the detection of grain orientations over time, which allows observation of the development of the recrystallization and annealing textures in a sample. In fact, the recrystallization and annealing textures in the Al–0.4Mn are characterized by an interruption in the detection of most of the grain orientations between 380 and 425 °C and by competition between the cube {001}<100>, {011}<1‐33>, {011}<0‐11> and rotated‐cube {001}<110> grain orientations, where the latter is detected until the end of the experiment. In the Al–0.7Mn sample a competition between the cube {001}<100>, {011}<100>, and rotated cube {001}<110>, {011}<0–11> grain orientations is observed. In the sample with the highest manganese concentration (1 wt.‐%) an unhindered grain growth of all possible grain orientations with a high amount of the {011}<0‐11> grain orientation is observed. The evolution of the resulting local textures is discussed in terms of preferentially oriented grain growth depending on the temperature and manganese concentration.
Fabrication of CdSe‐Nanofibers with Potential for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Fahmi Amir , Pietsch Torsten , Bryszewska Maria , Rodríguez‐Cabello José Carlos , Koceva‐Chyla Aneta , Arias Francisco Javier , Rodrigo Matilde Alonso , Gindy Nabil
Published: February 2010

The design and synthesis of nanostructured functional hybrid biomaterials are essential for the next generation of advanced diagnostics and the treatment of disease. A simple route to fabricate semiconductor nanofibers by self‐assembled, elastin‐like polymer (ELP)‐templated semiconductor nanoparticles is reported. Core–shell nanostructures of CdSe nanoparticles with a shell of ELPs are used as building blocks to fabricate functional one‐dimensional (1D) nanostructures. The CdSe particles are generated in situ within the ELP matrix at room temperature. The ELP controls the size and the size‐distribution of the CdSe nanoparticles in an aqueous medium and simultaneously directs the self‐assembly of core–shell building blocks into fibril architectures. It was found that the self‐assembly of core–shell building blocks into nanofibers is strongly dependent on the pH value of the medium. Results of cytotoxicity and antiproliferation of the CdSe‐ELP nanofibers demonstrate that the CdSe‐ELP does not exhibit any toxicity towards B14 cells. Moreover, these are found to be markedly capable of crossing the cell membrane of B14. In contrast, unmodified CdSe nanoparticles with ELPs cause a strong toxic response and reduction in the cell proliferation. This concept is valid for the fabrication of a variety of metallic and semiconductor 1D‐architectures. Therefore, it is believed that these could be used not only for biomedical purposes but for application in a wide range of advanced miniaturized devices.
Planar Alignment of Columnar Discotic Liquid Crystals by Isotropic Phase Dewetting on Chemically Patterned Surfaces
Authors: Bramble Jonathan P. , Tate Daniel J. , Revill Derek J. , Sheikh Khizar H. , Henderson James R. , Liu Feng , Zeng Xiangbing , Ungar Goran , Bushby Richard J. , Evans Stephen D.
Published: February 2010

A novel method of creating planar aligned columnar discotic liquid crystals (cDLCs) on surfaces, which also gives control over the azimuthal angle, is presented. Surfaces are chemically patterned with stripes via microcontact printing of organothiol self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold, or via deep UV patterning of organosilane SAMs on silicon. These are then used to isolate long droplets of cDLCs by dewetting in the isotropic phase. Upon cooling from the isotropic into the hexagonal columnar phase, polarizing microscopy reveals that the cDLC aligns in a planar orientation. Results for three triphenylene derivatives (HAT‐6, HHTT, H7T) and for a phthalocyanine derivative (8H2Pc) are presented. H7T and HAT‐6 are found to align with the director perpendicular to the stripe direction, but HHTT and 8H2Pc align parallel to the stripe direction. This relatively simple new method for creating planar aligned columnar phases of DLCs gives control over the azimuthal angle: a condition required for organic field‐effect transistor applications of cDLCs.
Synthesis of High‐Surface‐Area Platinum Nanotubes Using a Viral Template
Authors: Górzny Marcin Ł. , Walton Alex S. , Evans Stephen D.
Published: February 2010

A novel method for the synthesis of high‐active‐surface‐area, platinum–tobacco mosaic virus (Pt–TMV) nanotubes is presented. A platinum salt is reduced to its metallic form on the external surface of a rod‐shaped TMV by methanol, which serves as a solvent and reductant simultaneously. It was found that for the same Pt loading the Pt–TMV nanotubes had an electrochemically active surface area between 4 to 8 times larger than similarly sized Pt nanoparticles. A Pt–TMV catalyst displays greater stability in acidic conditions than those based on nanoparticles. When used as a catalyst for methanol oxidation, these Pt nanotubes display a 65% increase in catalytic mass activity compared to that based on Pt nanoparticles.
Monozygotic twins discordant for phacomatosis pigmentovascularis: Evidence for the concept of twin spotting
Authors: Moutray Tanya , Napier Maria , Shafiq Ayad , Fryer Alan , Rankin Simon , Willoughby Colin E.
Published: February 2010

The term phacomatosis pigmentovascularis (PPV) refers to the occurrence of vascular nevi with melanocytic or epidermal nevi. We report on monozygotic twins (MZTs) discordant for phacomatosis cesioflammea (PPV type II) providing evidence for the mechanism of twin spotting in the development of PPV. The affected twin had a nevus flammeus on the right arm and the right maxilla, and a pigmented area on the trunk in keeping with a persistent, aberrant Mongolian spot. The affected twin had bilateral ocular melanocytosis with abnormal scleral pigmentation, iris mamillations, increased pigmentation of the trabecular meshwork, and increased fundal pigmentation and secondary glaucoma. DNA testing confirmed monozygosity. This case of MZTs discordant for PPV supports the hypothesis that PPV results from mosaicism due to a post‐zygotic mutational event and the concept of twin spotting. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mutational analysis of two boys with the severe perinatally lethal Melnick–Needles syndrome
Authors: Santos Helena H. , Garcia Paula P. , Pereira Latife , Leão Letícia L. , Aguiar Regina A.P.L. , Lana Ana M.A. , Carvalho Maria Raquel S. , Aguiar Marcos J.B.
Published: February 2010

Melnick–Needles syndrome (MNS) (OMIM 309350) is a rare, X‐linked dominant condition, caused by mutations in the filamin A gene (FLNA, on Xq28). In females, the syndrome presents with bone dysplasia and characteristic facial changes. Affected males may show two different phenotypes. One is similar to the female phenotype and is seen in children born to unaffected mothers and suggesting new mutations. Alternatively, males born to affected mothers have an embryonic or perinatally lethal disorder. It has been claimed that MNS constitutes part of a spectrum including frontometaphyseal dysplasia, otopalatodigital syndrome type 1 (OPD1) and otopalatodigital syndrome type 2 (OPD2). These conditions are produced by different mutations in the filamin A gene (FLNA). MNS is caused by three different mutations in FLNA exon 22, to date detected only in females. We describe the clinical manifestations and present the results of FLNA exon 22 mutations screening in two boys with the perinatally lethal form of MNS and their affected mothers. In order to obtain DNA amplification from paraffin‐embedded tissues, we designed a new method based on hemi‐nested PCR. One of the children (and his mother) had a previously undescribed mutation produced by a double SNP in the positions 3776 and 3777 of the gene and leading to an amino acid substitution (NP_001447:p.[Gly1176Asp]). The second child (and his mother) had an already known mutation (NP_001447.2:p[.Ser1199Leu]). This is the first report confirming the presence FLNA mutations in boys with the perinatally lethal phenotype of MNS. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The importance of the family history in caring for families with long QT syndrome and dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ruiter Jolien S. , Berkenbosch‐Nieuwhof Karin , van den Berg Maarten P. , van Dijk Rene , Middel Berrie , van Tintelen J. Peter
Published: February 2010

In potentially inherited cardiac diseases, the family history is of great importance. We looked at the way cardiologists take a family history in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) or long QT syndrome (LQTS) and whether this led to screening of relatives or other follow‐up. We performed retrospective cross‐sectional analyses of adult index patients with DCM or LQTS in a general hospital (GH) or a University Medical Center (UMC). We identified 82 index patients with DCM (34 GH; 48 UMC) and 20 with LQTS (all UMC) between 1996 and 2005. Mean follow‐up was 58 months. A family history was recorded in 90% of both LQTS and DCM patients most of the cases restricted to first‐degree family members. The genetic aspects, counseling and screening of family members was discussed significantly more often with LQTS than DCM patients (all P < 0.05). Also follow‐up (screening of family members, DNA analysis and referral) was performed significantly more often in LQTS than DCM patients. Cardiologists in the UMC referred DCM index patients for genetic counseling more often than those in the GH (25% vs. 6%; P < 0.05). Only a few index patients with DCM were referred to a clinical genetics department. One‐third of DCM cases and nearly all LQTS cases are familial. Since early recognition and treatment may reduce morbidity and mortality we recommend cardiologists take a more thorough family history and always consider referring to a clinical genetics department in such index patients. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Paternal uniparental isodisomy of chromosome 6 causing a complex syndrome including complete IFN‐γ receptor 1 deficiency
Authors: Prando Carolina , Boisson‐Dupuis Stéphanie , Grant Audrey V. , Kong Xiao‐Fei , Bustamante Jacinta , Feinberg Jacqueline , Chapgier Ariane , Rose Yoann , Jannière Lucile , Rizzardi Elena , Zhang Qiuping , Shanahan Catherine M. , Viollet Louis , Lyonnet Stanislas , Abel Laurent , Ruga Ezia Maria , Casanova Jean‐Laurent
Published: February 2010

Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease (MSMD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency associated with clinical disease caused by weakly virulent mycobacterial species. Interferon gamma receptor 1 (IFN‐γR1) deficiency is a genetic etiology of MSMD. We describe the clinical and genetic features of a 7‐year‐old Italian boy suffering from MSMD associated with a complex phenotype, including neonatal hyperglycemia, neuromuscular disease, and dysmorphic features. The child also developed necrotizing pneumonia caused by Rhodococcus equi. The child is homozygous for a nonsense mutation in exon 3 of IFNGR1 as a result of paternal uniparental disomy (UPD) of the entire chromosome 6. This is the first reported case of uniparental disomy resulting in a complex phenotype including MSMD. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recurrent deletion of ZNF630 at Xp11.23 is not associated with mental retardation
Authors: Lugtenberg Dorien , Zangrande‐Vieira Luiz , Kirchhoff Maria , Whibley Annabel C. , Oudakker Astrid R. , Kjaergaard Susanne , Vianna‐Morgante Angela M. , Kleefstra Tjitske , Ruiter Mariken , Jehee Fernanda S. , Ullmann Reinhard , Schwartz Charles E. , Stratton Michael , Raymond F. Lucy , Veltman Joris A. , Vrijenhoek Terry , Pfundt Rolph , Schuurs‐Hoeijmakers Janneke H.M. , Hehir‐Kwa Jayne Y. , Froyen Guy , Chelly Jamel , Ropers Hans Hilger , Moraine Claude , Gècz Jozef , Knijnenburg Jeroen , Kant Sarina G. , Hamel Ben C.J. , Rosenberg Carla , van Bokhoven Hans , de Brouwer Arjan P.M.
Published: February 2010

ZNF630 is a member of the primate‐specific Xp11 zinc finger gene cluster that consists of six closely related genes, of which ZNF41, ZNF81, and ZNF674 have been shown to be involved in mental retardation. This suggests that mutations of ZNF630 might influence cognitive function. Here, we detected 12 ZNF630 deletions in a total of 1,562 male patients with mental retardation from Brazil, USA, Australia, and Europe. The breakpoints were analyzed in 10 families, and in all cases they were located within two segmental duplications that share more than 99% sequence identity, indicating that the deletions resulted from non‐allelic homologous recombination. In 2,121 healthy male controls, 10 ZNF630 deletions were identified. In total, there was a 1.6‐fold higher frequency of this deletion in males with mental retardation as compared to controls, but this increase was not statistically significant (P‐value = 0.174). Conversely, a 1.9‐fold lower frequency of ZNF630 duplications was observed in patients, which was not significant either (P‐value = 0.163). These data do not show that ZNF630 deletions or duplications are associated with mental retardation. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
miRNA mutations are not a common cause of deafness
Authors: Hildebrand Michael S. , Witmer P. Dane , Xu Shunbin , Newton Stephen S. , Kahrizi Kimia , Najmabadi Hossein , Valle David , Smith Richard J.H.
Published: February 2010

Mutations in miRNA genes have been implicated in hearing loss in human families and mice. It is also possible that mutations in miRNA binding sites of inner ear targets alter gene expression levels and lead to hearing loss. To investigate these possibilities we screened predicted target genes of the miR‐183 miRNA cluster known to be expressed in the inner ear sensory epithelium. In one Iranian family segregating autosomal recessive non‐syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL), we identified a homozygous variant in a predicted miR‐96/182 binding site in the 3′UTR of the RDX (DFNB24) gene. However, in vitro functional studies showed that this site is not a functional target for miR‐96/182. We extended our study to include the miR‐183 genes themselves and 24 additional predicted target genes of the miRNA‐183 cluster. Screening these miRNAs and target sequences in numerous families segregating either autosomal dominant non‐syndromic deafness (ADNSHL) or ARNSHL did not identify any potential deafness‐causing mutations. These results suggest that mutations disrupting gene regulation by the miR‐183 cluster are not a common cause of human hearing loss. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.