bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of motor unit potential wavelet analysis in the electrodiagnosis of neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Tomczykiewicz Kazimierz , Dobrowolski Andrzej P. , Wierzbowski Mariusz
Published: January 2012

Introduction:Electrophysiological studies of human motor units can use various electromyographic techniques. Together with the development of new techniques for analysis and processing of bioelectric signals, motor unit action potential (MUAP) wavelet analysis represents an important change in the development of electromyographic techniques.Methods:The proposed approach involves isolating single MUAPs, computing their scalograms, taking the maximum values of the scalograms in 5 selected scales, and averaging across MUAPs to give a single five‐dimensional feature vector per muscle. After Support Vector Machine analysis, the feature vector is reduced to a single decision parameter that allows the subject to be assigned to 1 of 3 groups: myogenic, healthy, or neurogenic. The software is available as freeware.Results:MUAP wavelet analysis yielded consistent results for the diagnostic index and muscle classification, with only 7 incorrect classifications out of a total of 1,015 samples.Conclusions:This proposed approach provides a sensitive and reliable method for evaluating and characterizing MUAPs. Muscle Nerve 46: 63–69, 2012
Electromyographs of the flexor digitorum profundus muscle are useful for the diagnosis of inclusion body myositis
Authors: Hokkoku Keiichi , Sonoo Masahiro , Higashihara Mana , Stålberg Erik , Shimizu Teruo
Published: January 2012

Introduction: The frequent observation of high‐amplitude and long‐duration motor unit potentials (MUPs) in inclusion body myositis (IBM) is problematic, because it may lead to a misdiagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Objective: To document the diagnostic utility of EMG from the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) muscle for IBM. Methods: Quantitative analyses of MUP parameters were performed in the FDP and biceps brachii (BB) muscles from 7 biopsy‐confirmed IBM patients. Results: In the FDP muscle, all MUP parameters were significantly decreased in IBM patients, which indicated the predominance of low‐amplitude and short‐duration MUPs in this muscle. In the BB muscle, most parameters were increased, suggesting the frequent contamination of high‐amplitude and long‐duration MUPs. Conclusions: Low‐amplitude MUPs in the FDP muscle indicate the presence of an advanced myopathy in this muscle that was extremely weak for all subjects. Examining the FDP muscle would reduce the chance of misdiagnosing IBM as ALS. Muscle Nerve 46: 181–186, 2012
Poly(L‐lactic acid) with added α‐tocopherol and resveratrol: optical, physical, thermal and mechanical properties
Authors: Hwang Sung Wook , Shim Jin Kie , Selke Susan EM , Soto‐Valdez Herlinda , Matuana Laurent , Rubino Maria , Auras Rafael
Published: January 2012

Poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) films containing various concentrations of two natural antioxidants, α‐tocopherol and resveratrol, were fabricated by a melt compounding and compression molding process. The influence of the antioxidants on the optical properties such as color and UV‐visible light transmission was analyzed. The thermal, mechanical, rheological and physical properties of PLLA films with added antioxidants were assessed. PLLA films with added α‐tocopherol and resveratrol showed a yellowish brown color and the lightness was influenced by the presence of the antioxidants. The glass transition and melting temperatures were significantly reduced with the addition of antioxidants while enhanced thermal stability was observed, which could be a benefit and important for processing and production. PLLA films with added antioxidants were slightly more hydrophobic than neat PLLA. The combination effect of plasticizing and enhancement of the elastic modulus with differing concentrations of two antioxidants played a critical role in the mechanical and thermomechanical properties of PLLA films. The melt viscosity of the PLLA films with added antioxidants was substantially higher than that of neat PLLA. The higher melt viscosity and G′(ω) could be an indication of formation of entanglement between PLLA and the two antioxidants. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparison of Acid Orange 7 Degradation in Solution by Gliding Arc Discharge with Different Forms of TiO2
Authors: Liu Hui , Du Chang Ming , Wang Jing , Li Hong Xia , Zhang Lu , Zhang Lu Lu
Published: January 2012

Plasma catalysis for wastewater treatment is an emerging advanced oxidation process. In the present work, the performances of photocatalyst nanoparticles‐assisted and immobilized photocatalysts‐assisted gliding arc discharge (GAD) plasma reactors have been tested with the acid orange 7 (AO7) solution selected as the target wastewater. Immobilized photocatalysts of γ‐Al2O3–TiO2 were made by a sol–gel and immersion method with activated alumina balls used as carriers. Through the analysis of XRD, it was found that TiO2 surface was mainly anatase crystal‐based. Compared with TiO2 nanoparticles, the immobilized catalysts did not have the defects of inhibiting GAD which catalysts would be caused by suspended, therefore, showing a better catalytic performance. In the available range of dosage of catalysts, the catalytic effect of γ‐Al2O3–TiO2 was increased with dosage. When the catalyst amount was 10.0 g, COD of the target solution decreased with a rate constant of 0.0487 min−1 and an abatement rate of 39.2% in 40 min with TiO2 nanoparticles (0.375 g · L−1) as catalysts, but was decreased with a rate constant of 0.0573 min−1 and an abatement rate of 43.6% in 40 min with γ‐Al2O3–TiO2 as catalysts. The system of plasma and γ‐Al2O3–TiO2 catalysts is suitable for high concentration organic wastewater treatment and, moreover, can degrade and mineralize wastewater effectively.

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Increased TGF‐β1‐mediated suppression of growth and motility in castrate‐resistant prostate cancer cells is consistent with Smad2/3 signaling
Authors: Miles Fayth L. , Tung Navpreet S. , Aguiar Adam A. , Kurtoglu Senem , Sikes Robert A.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND

Elevated TGF‐β levels are associated with prostate cancer progression. Although TGF‐β is a tumor suppressor for normal epithelial and early‐stage cancer cells, it may act paradoxically as a tumor promoter in more advanced cancers, although its effects are largely cell and context dependent. This study analyzed prostate cancer responses to TGF‐β signaling in an isogenic model of androgen‐sensitive and castration‐resistant prostate cancer cells.

METHODS

Phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2 and Smad3 were analyzed using immunoblotting. Proliferation and cell cycle responses to TGF‐β1 (5 ng/ml) were assessed using growth assays and flow cytometry for DNA content, as well as Western blot and immunoprecipitation of cell cycle proteins.

RESULTS

Both androgen‐sensitive (LNCaP) and castration‐resistant (C4‐2 and C4‐2B) prostate cancer cell lines demonstrated TGF‐β1‐induced phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2/3 that was robust in metastatic lines. Smad phosphorylation was completely abrogated with inhibition of ALK‐5 kinase activity using the kinase inhibitor, SB‐431542. Increased sensitivity to TGF‐β1‐mediated growth inhibition was observed in C4‐2 and C4‐2B cells, as compared to LNCaP cells. This was paralleled with downregulation of Cyclin D and increased association of p15Ink4b or p27Kip with CDK's. Additionally, TGF‐β1 inhibited motility and invasion of metastatic cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

TGF‐β‐mediated suppression of growth and motility is enhanced in metastatic, castration‐resistant prostate cancer cells. Enhanced TGF‐β1‐induced Smad2 and ‐3 signaling in prostate cancer cells may correlate with tumor suppressive activity. Therefore, the direct effects of TGF‐β1 on prostate cancer cells post‐castration may be anti‐tumorigenic and growth‐suppressive. Prostate 72:1339–1350, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dose–response relationships for the antifeedant effects of Humulus lupulus extracts against larvae and adults of the Colorado potato beetle
Authors: Gökçe Ayhan , Isaacs Rufus , Whalon Mark E
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: Dose–response relationships for antifeedant effects of H. lupulus extracts against larvae and adults of the Colorado potato beetle (CPB) were determined in laboratory conditions. The larval and adult beetles were fed on potato leaflets treated with H. lupulus extract ranging from 0.4 to 40 mg mL−1 in a no‐choice situation. Their feeding behavior was recorded, and larval growth and antifeedant indexes were calculated.

RESULTS: H. lupulus treatments significantly affected larval growth rate, and at higher concentrations the larval weights were significantly reduced over the course of the assay. Adults of CPB were more sensitive to the extracts than the larvae, and, even at lower doses, adult beetles were arrested for longer periods than larvae.

CONCLUSION: These results indicate that H. lupulus extracts may have potential for control of CPB, particularly in organic farms where conventional insecticides are not available. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Interaction of proteinase inhibitors with Cry1Ac toxicity and the presence of 15 chymotrypsin cDNAs in the midgut of the tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Zhu Yu Cheng , West Sandy , Liu Fanny X. , He Yueping
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: The potential development of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton and surging of non‐targeted insects is a major risk in the durability of Bt plant technology. Midgut proteinases are involved in Bt activation and degradation. Proteinase inhibitors may be used to control a wide range of insects and delay Bt resistance development. Proactive action to examine proteinase inhibitors for synergistic interaction with Bt toxin and cloning of proteinase cDNAs for RNAi is necessary to make transgenic cotton more versatile and durable.

RESULTS: A sublethal dose (15 ppb) of Cry1Ac, 0.5% benzamidine and 0.02% phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride significantly suppressed midgut azocaseinase, tryptic and chymotryptic activities, and resulted in reductions in larval and pupal length and mass of Heliothis virescens. The combination of proteinase inhibitor and Bt suppressed 20–37% more larval body mass and 26–80% more enzymatic activities than the inhibitor only or Bt only. To facilitate knockdown‐resistance‐related proteinase genes, 15 midgut chymotrypsin cDNAs were sequenced. Most predicted chymotrypsins contained the conserved N‐termini IVGG, three catalytic center residues (His, Asp and Ser), substrate specificity determinant (Ser or Gly) and cysteines for disulfide bridges. These putative chymotrypsins were separated into three distinct groups, indicating the diverse proteinases evolved in this polyphagous insect.

CONCLUSION: H. virescens has evolved diverse midgut proteinase genes. Proteinase inhibitors have potential insecticidal activity, and the interaction of Bt with proteinase inhibitors is desirable for enhancing Bt toxicity and delaying resistance development. Intensive sequencing of chymotrypsin cDNAs will facilitate future functional examinations of individual roles in Bt toxicity and resistance development and facilitate targeted control using RNAi and/or proteinase inhibitors. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Larvicidal activity of Cnidium monnieri fruit coumarins and structurally related compounds against insecticide‐susceptible and insecticide‐resistant Culex pipiens pallens and Aedes aegypti
Authors: Wang Zhangqian , Kim Jun‐Ran , Wang Mo , Shu Shaohua , Ahn Young‐Joon
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: An assessment was made of the toxicity of imperatorin and osthole identified in Cnidium monnieri fruit, 11 related compounds and five insecticides to larvae from insecticide‐susceptible Culex pipiens pallens (KS‐CP strain) and Aedes aegypti and wild C.p. pallens (YS‐CP colony) using a direct‐contact mortality bioassay. Results were compared with those of the conventional larvicide temephos.

RESULTS: Imperatorin (LC50 = 3.14 and 2.88 mg L−1) was 1.9‐, 3.7‐ and 4.2‐fold and 2.4‐, 4.5‐ and 4.6‐fold more toxic than isopimpinellin, isoimperatorin and osthole against susceptible C. p. pallens and A. aegypti larvae respectively. Overall, all of the compounds were less toxic than temephos (0.011 and 0.019 mg L−1). The toxicity of these compounds was virtually identical against larvae from the two Culex strains, even though YS‐CP larvae were resistant to fenthion (resistance ratio RR = 390), deltamethrin (RR = 164), cyfluthrin (RR = 14) and temephos (RR = 14). This finding indicates that the coumarins and the insecticides do not share a common mode of action. The structure–activity relationship indicates that the chemical structure and alkoxy substitution and length of the alkoxyl side chain at the C8 position are essential for imparting toxicity.

CONCLUSION: The C. monnieri fruit‐derived coumarins and the related coumarins described merit further study as potential insecticides or lead molecules for the control of insecticide‐resistant mosquito populations. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Therapeutic Effects and Safety of Rhodiola rosea Extract WS® 1375 in Subjects with Life‐stress Symptoms – Results of an Open‐label Study
Authors: Edwards D. , Heufelder A. , Zimmermann A.
Published: January 2012

The trial was conducted to investigate the therapeutic effects and safety of a 4 week treatment with Rhodiola rosea extract WS® 1375 in subjects with life‐stress symptoms. This was a multicentre, non‐randomized, open‐label, single‐arm trial. One hundred and one subjects were enrolled in this clinical study and received the study drug at a dose of 200 mg twice daily for 4 weeks. Assessments with seven questionnaires included Numerical Analogue Scales of Subjective Stress Symptoms, Perceived Stress Questionnaire, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory 20, Numbers Connecting Test, Sheehan Disability Scale and Clinical Global Impressions to cover various aspects of stress symptoms and adverse events. Invariably, all tests showed clinically relevant improvements with regard to stress symptoms, disability, functional impairment and overall therapeutic effect. Improvements were observed even after 3 days of treatment, as were continuing improvements after 1 and 4 weeks. Rhodiola rosea extract WS® 1375 was safe and generally well tolerated. Adverse events were mostly of mild intensity and no serious adverse events were reported. Rhodiola extract at a dose of 200 mg twice daily for 4 weeks is safe and effective in improving life‐stress symptoms to a clinically relevant degree. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative analysis of polydisperse systems via solvent‐free matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Kulkarni Sourabh U. , Thies Mark C.
Published: January 2012

Quantitative analysis of partially soluble and insoluble polydisperse materials is challenging due to the lack of both appropriate standards and reliable analytical techniques. To this end, matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) incorporating a solvent‐free sample preparation technique was investigated for the quantitative analysis of partially soluble, polydisperse, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) oligomers. Molecular weight standards consisting of narrow molecular weight dimer and trimer oligomers of the starting M‐50 petroleum pitch were produced using both dense‐gas/supercritical extraction (DGE/SCE) and preparative‐scale, gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The validity of a MALDI‐based, quantitative analysis technique using solvent‐free sample preparation was first demonstrated by applying the method of standard addition to a pitch of known composition. The standard addition method was then applied to the quantitative analysis of two insoluble petroleum pitch fractions of unknown oligomeric compositions, with both the dimer and trimer compositions of these fractions being accurately determined. To our knowledge, this study represents the first successful MALDI application of solvent‐free quantitative analysis to insoluble, polydisperse materials. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Studying ancient crop provenance: implications from δ13C and δ15N values of charred barley in a Middle Bronze Age silo at Ebla(NW Syria)
Authors: Fiorentino Girolamo , Caracuta Valentina , Casiello Grazia , Longobardi Francesco , Sacco Antonio
Published: January 2012

The discovery of a storeroom full of barley and other cereals (L.9512) in the proto‐historic site of Ebla has provided a unique opportunity to study the centralized storage system of the early city‐state from a different perspective. Epigraphic evidence available within the site reveals a complex system of taxation which included gathering grain tributes from satellite sites and redistributing semi‐finished products such as flour. In this paper, we intend to explore the possibilities of a combined approach to studying the storage system, based on estimated barley grain volumes and δ13C‐δ15N analyses. This approach is used to distinguish between grain from different harvesting sites and to identify any grain cultivated using special agricultural practices (e.g. manuring or irrigation). The basic assumption for this kind of analysis is that the growth‐site conditions, natural or anthropogenic, of harvested cereals are reflected in their grain size and δ13C‐δ15N values. Since the remains found in the storeroom were charred, the first task was to evaluate the effect of carbonization on the δ13C‐δ15N and the size of the grains. Thus, the effect of charring was tested on modern samples of Syrian barley landraces. Once it had been ascertained that fresh grains reduced to charred remains retain their original biometric and isotopic traits, the ancient material was examined. Thirteen groups were identified, each characterized by a specific average volume and specific carbon and nitrogen values. The analysis revealed that what had first appeared to be a homogeneous concentration of grain was in fact an assemblage of barley harvested from different sites. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The oxygen isotope relationship between the phosphate and structural carbonate fractions of human bioapatite
Authors: Chenery Carolyn A. , Pashley Vanessa , Lamb Angela L. , Sloane Hilary J. , Evans Jane A.
Published: January 2012

RATIONALE

Oxygen isotope analysis of archaeological human dental enamel is widely used as a proxy for the drinking water composition (δ18ODW) of the individual and thus can be used as an indicator of their childhood place of origin. In this paper we demonstrate the robustness of structural carbonate oxygen isotope values (δ18OC) in bioapatite to preserve the life signal of human tooth enamel by comparing it with phosphate oxygen isotope values (δ18OP) derived from the same archaeological human tooth enamel samples.

METHODS

δ18OC analysis was undertaken on 51 archaeological tooth enamel samples previously analysed for δ18OP values and strontium isotopes. δ18OC values were determined on a GV IsoPrime dual inlet mass spectrometer, following a series of methodological tests to assess: (1) The reaction time needed to ensure complete release of CO2 from structural carbonate in the enamel; (2) The effect of an early pre‐treatment with dilute acetic acid to remove diagenetic carbonate; (3) Analytical error; (4) Intra‐tooth variation; and (5) Diagenetic alteration.

RESULTS

This study establishes a direct relationship between δ18OC and δ18OP values from human tooth enamel (δ18OP = 1.0322 × δ18OC – 9.6849). We have combined this equation with the drinking water equation of Daux et al. (J. Hum. Evol. 2008, 55, 1138) to allow direct calculation of δ18ODW values from human bioapatite δ18OC (δ18ODW = 1.590 × δ18OC – 48.634).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first comprehensive study of the relationship between the ionic forms of oxygen (phosphate oxygen and structural carbonate) in archaeological human dental enamel. The new equation will allow direct comparison of data produced by the different methods and allow drinking water values to be calculated from structural carbonate data with confidence. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategic identification of in vitro metabolites of 13‐desmethyl spirolide C using liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Hui Joseph P. M. , Stuart Grossert J. , Cutler Murray J. , Melanson Jeremy E.
Published: January 2012

A strategy to identify metabolites of a marine biotoxin, 13‐desmethyl spirolide C, has been developed using liquid chromatography coupled to high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC/HRMS). Metabolites were generated in vitro through incubation with human liver microsomes. A list of metabolites was established by selecting precursor ions of a common fragment ion characteristic of the spirolide toxin which was known to contain a cyclic imine ring. Accurate mass measurements were subsequently used to confirm the molecular formula of each biotransformation product. Using this approach, a total of nine phase I metabolites was successfully identified with deviations of mass accuracy less than 2 ppm. The biotransformations observed included hydroxylation, dihydroxylation, oxidation of a quaternary methyl group to hydroxymethyl or carboxylic acid groups, dehydrogenation and hydroxylation, as well as demethylation and dihydroxylation reactions. In a second step, tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) was performed to elucidate structures of the metabolites. Using the unique fragment ions in the spectra, the structures of the three major metabolites, 13,19‐didesmethyl‐19‐carboxy spirolide C, 13,19‐didesmethyl‐19‐hydroxymethyl spirolide C and 13‐desmethyl‐17‐hydroxy spirolide C, were assigned. Levels of 13‐desmethyl spirolide C and its metabolites were monitored at selected time points over a 32‐h incubation period with human liver microsomes. It was determined that 13,19‐didesmethyl‐19‐carboxy spirolide C became the predominant metabolite after 2 h of incubation. The stability plot of 13‐desmethyl spirolide C showed first‐order kinetics for its metabolism and the intrinsic clearance was calculated to be 41 μL/min/mg, suggesting first‐pass metabolism may contribute to limiting oral toxicity of 13‐desmethyl spirolide C. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface modification of plasma‐pretreated expanded poly (tetrafluroethylene) films by graft copolymerization
Authors: Gao Jing , Yu Jianyong , Ma Yizi
Published: January 2012

A two‐step process based on a low‐pressure helium plasma treatment followed by acrylic acid‐grafting copolymerization was used for the surface modification of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) films. The effects of plasma treatment power and treatment time on the hydrophilicity of the film surface were investigated. The wettability of the ePTFE film surface was characterized by water contact angle, and the surface compositions of the untreated and treated ePTFE samples were evaluated by atomic force microscopy and XPS. Contact angle measurements revealed that the hydrophilicity of the ePTFE film surface was greatly enhanced by the combined actions of the plasma treatment and acrylic acid grafting, and the contact angle decreased from 145° to 66°. Atomic force microscopy analyses showed that the surface roughness increased after the plasma treatment. XPS analyses showed substantial increase in the concentration of carbon and oxygen atoms and a decrease in the concentration of fluorine atoms at the film surface. T‐peel strength showed an improved bonding strength between the film and an adhesive tape after the treatment. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Subcellular Tracking of Drug Release from Carbon Nanotube Vehicles in Living Cells
Authors: Kang Bin , Li Jun , Chang Shuquan , Dai Mingzhu , Ren Chao , Dai Yaodong , Chen Da
Published: January 2012

The direct observation of drug release from carbon nanotube vehicles in living cells is realized through a unique two‐dye labeling approach. Single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are firstly marked with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) to track their location and movement inside the cell. Then a fluorescent anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) is attached by means of π‐stacking onto SWNTs. Delivered by SWNTs into cells, DOX will detach from the vehicle in an acidic environment due to the pH‐dependent π–π stacking interaction between DOX and SWNTs. From observation of the two different kinds of fluorescence (green and red) that respectively represent the carrier SWNTs and drug DOX, the process of drug release inside the living cell can be monitored under a confocal microscope. Results show that the drug DOX detaches from SWNTs inside the lysosomes to yield free molecules and escape into the cytoplasm and finally into the nucleus, while the vehicle SWNTs are trapped inside the lysosomes, without entering the nucleus. The current observations confirm previously proposed mechanisms for drug/DOX release inside cells. The experimental establishment of drug‐release mechanisms in living cells here might provide important insights for future design of new drug‐delivery and release systems.
Structural modification of waxy, regular, and high‐amylose maize and hulless barley starches on partial acid hydrolysis and their impact on physicochemical properties and chemical modification
Authors: Gao Jun , Vasanthan Thava , Hoover Ratnajothi , Li Jihong
Published: January 2012

Waxy (WX), regular (RA), and high‐amylose (HA) maize and hulless barley (HB) starches were subjected to partial acid hydrolysis with 1.0 and 2.2 N HCl for 30–240 min. In both starches, the extent of hydrolysis with 1.0 N HCl followed the order: HA>WX>RA, whereas with 2.2 N HCl, the order was: HA>WX>RA (maize) and WX>HA>RA (HB), respectively. The relative crystallinity increased (HA>WX>RA) and the X‐ray pattern remained unchanged, whereas the swelling factor decreased (WX>RA>HA in maize and WX>HA>RA in HB) at both acid concentrations. Starches hydrolyzed with 1.0 N HCl exhibited increased gelatinization temperatures (WX>RA>HA in maize, WX>HA ∼ RA in HB), a narrower gelatinization temperature range (WX>RA>HA in maize, WX>RA ∼ HA in HB) and a decreased gelatinization enthalpy (WX>HA>RA in maize and HB). Acid hydrolysis increased the accessibility of the phosphorylating reagent into the amorphous regions. The extent of phosphorylation was more pronounced (maize>HB) in starches hydrolyzed with 1.0 N HCl for 60–90 min. The bound phosphorus content (BPC) followed the order: HA>WX>RA in maize and HB starches hydrolyzed with 1.0 N HCl for 240 min. In both starches, the extent of cationization was not influenced either by acid concentration or hydrolysis time. In general, acid hydrolysis significantly affected the reactivity of starch towards phosphorylation, where the optimum hydrolysis condition differed with starch source. The results would benefit the starch industry, since the amount of the phosphorylating reagent required for increasing thermal stability and/or freeze‐thaw stability could be decreased substantially, if starches are subjected to partial acid hydrolysis prior to derivatization.
A Family Experience of Personal Genomics
Authors: Corpas Manuel
Published: January 2012

This article presents a personal journey of a close‐knit family from Málaga, Spain who engaged with direct‐to‐consumer (DTC) genomic testing. Whilst the testing was initiated by one member of the family who works as a genome bioinformatician, none of the remaining family had any prior experience with DTC genetic testing. A thoughtful account, written in the first person, is offered on the experience of genome testing across the various members of the family together with a reflection on how it felt to be a custodian of the ‘family genome’. The way the family processed their genome information is explored and the difficulties and challenges that resulted are discussed. Whilst there is a wealth of literature that describes how families communicate information surrounding single genes, there is very little which explores the experience of communication about whole, shared genomes. The experiences described in this paper provide an insight into this new territory.
Political Terrorism
Authors: Wardlaw Grant
Published: January 2012

This work outlines the important considerations of policy that confront a democratic state in trying to combat terrorism and at the same time remain democratic. Part I of this book, provides the reader with a comprehensive introduction to the definition, history, theory, operation and effects of terrorism as an essential background to policy analysis. Part II analyses counter-terrorist policies. It begins by outlining basic policy choices and then looks at specific policy areas such as the role of intelligence agencies, the use of the armed forces, the development of anti-terrorist legislation and international treaties, and the issue of regulation of media reporting of terrorist incidents. Developments in the strategic dimension of terrorism are discussed in chapters on the importance of hostage takings to international terrorism and issues surrounding state involvement in international terrorism. In the preparation of this second edition, Grant Wardlaw has considerably expanded the second part of the book, focusing firmly upon the international policy consequences of prevalent developments within international terrorism.
The Invasion of the Crimea
Authors: Kinglake Alexander William
Published: January 2012

Alexander William Kinglake (1809–1891) was a travel writer and historian. He witnessed the battle of the Alma and the Charge of the Light Brigade, and became well acquainted with the British commander, Lord Raglan. This work was commissioned by Lady Raglan to repair her husband's reputation, and Kinglake was given access to Raglan's papers, and to private and confidential state records. The eight volumes were published between 1863 and 1887. They were extremely successful commercially, but received mixed critical reviews, owing to the bias and prejudice shown by the author, and serious questions were raised about his use of the sources to which he was given exclusive access. However, the breadth of his research, corresponding with or interviewing participants in the war, and use of French, Turkish and Russian sources as well as British, gives lasting value to the work. Volume 8 ends with the death of Lord Raglan.
The Naturalisation of Animals and Plants in New Zealand
Authors: Thomson George M.
Published: January 2012

George Thomson (1848–1933) was born in Calcutta, grew up in Scotland and emigrated to New Zealand at 20. He settled there, working as a teacher and analytical chemist, and was eventually elected to the House of Representatives in 1908. Thomson had an interest in natural history, but he was especially fascinated by the biological battles between native species of plants and animals and more recent arrivals. Realising New Zealand's unique advantage in having written records about the introduction of new species from the period of Captain Cook's second voyage in 1773 onwards, Thomson was able to trace the origins and spread of many plants and animals. This study, published in 1922, notes their locations and dates, and includes lists of foreign species officially designated as pests. It is a comprehensive guide to the non-native flora and fauna of New Zealand, providing valuable information about the country's ecological history.
Popular Fiction and Brain Science in the Late Nineteenth Century
Authors: Stiles Anne
Published: January 2012

In the 1860s and 1870s, leading neurologists used animal experimentation to establish that discrete sections of the brain regulate specific mental and physical functions. These discoveries had immediate medical benefits: David Ferrier's detailed cortical maps, for example, saved lives by helping surgeons locate brain tumors and haemorrhages without first opening up the skull. These experiments both incited controversy and stimulated creative thought, because they challenged the possibility of an extra-corporeal soul. This book examines the cultural impact of neurological experiments on late-Victorian Gothic romances by Robert Louis Stevenson, Bram Stoker, H. G. Wells and others. Novels like Dracula and Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde expressed the deep-seated fears and visionary possibilities suggested by cerebral localization research, and offered a corrective to the linearity and objectivity of late Victorian neurology.
Theory of Conditional Games
Authors: Stirling Wynn C.
Published: January 2012

Game theory explains how to make good choices when different decision makers have conflicting interests. The classical approach assumes that decision makers are committed to making the best choices for themselves regardless of the effect on others, but such an approach is less appropriate when cooperation, compromise and negotiation are important. This book describes conditional games, a form of game theory that accommodates multiple stakeholder decision-making scenarios where cooperation and negotiation are significant issues and where notions of concordant group behavior are important. Using classical binary preference relations as a point of departure, the book extends the concept of a preference ordering that permits stakeholders to modulate their preferences as functions of the preferences of others. As these conditional preferences propagate through a group of decision makers, they create social bonds that lead to notions of group concordance. This book is intended for all students and researchers of decision theory and game theory.
Interreligious Learning
Authors: Barnes Michael
Published: January 2012

Taking the theme of learning as central to the responsible practice of interfaith dialogue, Michael Barnes discusses a Christian spirituality which builds on virtues of hospitality and the welcoming of other traditions, whilst maintaining the importance of difference and particularity in the search for meaning. Each chapter explores how faith grows as a person crosses a threshold into another religious world and learns sensitivity to echoes of the known in the unknown. Encounters with the religious other, refracted through texts, conversations, artefacts and places, are used to illustrate the ancient Patristic theme of 'seeds of the Word'. Cumulatively they show that faith which learns how to engage imaginatively with another religious world constantly returns to the 'home' tradition, reinvigorated in its appreciation of the other. This book contributes to current comparative theology studies, using a theological approach to interreligious studies complementary to one based on the experience of interpersonal relations.
The Garnaut Review 2011
Authors: Garnaut Ross
Published: January 2012

In this update to the 2008 Garnaut Climate Change Review, Ross Garnaut re-examines the case for action in the aftermath of the global financial crisis and recent developments by major countries to reduce emissions and prepare for a low-carbon future. He guides the reader through the climate change debate, and explains why Australia's contribution is vital to the national interest and matters to the global effort. He outlines a set of policies through which Australia can contribute its fair share without damaging Australian prosperity. The Garnaut Review 2011: Australia in the Global Response to Climate Change extends the analysis to contemporary economic, political and environmental conditions in a way that is clear and easy to understand. It is an essential resource for all who care about the future of our economy and environment.
Meandering due to large eddies and the statistically self-similar dynamics of quasi-two-dimensional jets
Authors: Landel Julien R. , Caulfield C. P. , Woods Andrew W.
Published: January 2012

We investigate experimentally the structure of quasi-two-dimensional plane turbulent jets discharged vertically from a slot of width $d$ into a fluid confined between two relatively close rigid boundaries with gap $W\ensuremath{\sim} O(d)$. At large vertical distances $z\gg W$ the jet structure consists of a meandering core with large counter-rotating eddies, which develop on alternate sides of the core. Using particle image velocimetry, we observe an inverse cascade typical of quasi-two-dimensional turbulence where both the core and the eddies grow linearly with $z$ and travel at an average speed proportional to ${z}^{\ensuremath{-} 1/ 2} $. However, although the present study concerns quasi-two-dimensional confined jets, the jets are self-similar and the mean properties are consistent with both experimental results and theoretical models of the time-averaged properties of fully unconfined planar two-dimensional jets. We believe that the dynamics of the interacting core and large eddies accounts for the Gaussian profile of the mean vertical velocity as shown by the spatial statistical distribution of the core and eddy structure. The lateral excursions (caused by the propagating eddies) of this high-speed central core produce a Gaussian distribution for the time-averaged vertical velocity. In addition, we find that approximately 75 % of the total momentum flux of the jet is contained within the core. The eddies travel substantially slower (at approximately 25 % of the maximum speed of the core) at each height and their growth is primarily attributed to entrainment of ambient fluid. The frequency of occurrence of the eddies decreases in a stepwise manner due to merging, with a well-defined minimum value of the corresponding Strouhal number $\mathit{St}\geq 0. 07$.
Regulation of the expression of key genes involved in HDL metabolism by unsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Kuang Yu-Lin , Eric Paulson K. , Lichtenstein Alice H. , Lamon-Fava Stefania
Published: January 2012

The cardioprotective effects of HDL have been largely attributed to their role in the reverse cholesterol transport pathway, whose efficiency is affected by many proteins involved in the formation and remodelling of HDL. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects, and possible mechanisms of action, of unsaturated fatty acids on the expression of genes involved in HDL metabolism in HepG2 cells. The mRNA concentration of target genes was assessed by real-time PCR. Protein concentrations were determined by Western blot or immunoassays. PPAR and liver X receptor (LXR) activities were assessed in transfection experiments. Compared with the SFA palmitic acid (PA), the PUFA arachidonic acid (AA), EPA and DHA significantly decreased apoA-I, ATP-binding cassette A1 (ABCA1), lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) and phospholipid transfer protein mRNA levels. EPA and DHA significantly lowered the protein concentration of apoA-I and LCAT in the media, as well as the cellular ABCA1 protein content. In addition, DHA repressed the apoA-I promoter activity. AA lowered only the protein concentration of LCAT in the media. The activity of PPAR was increased by DHA, while the activity of LXR was lowered by both DHA and AA, relative to PA. The regulation of these transcription factors by PUFA may explain some of the PUFA effects on gene expression. The observedn-3 PUFA-mediated changes in gene expression are predicted to reduce the rate of HDL particle formation and maturation.
Sex differences in the impact of the Mediterranean diet on cardiovascular risk profile
Authors: Bédard Alexandra , Riverin Mélissa , Dodin Sylvie , Corneau Louise , Lemieux Simone
Published: January 2012

The traditional Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is now widely recommended in the prevention of CVD. However, it is not known whether the MedDiet has the same beneficial cardiovascular effects in women and in men. The objective of the present study was to investigate sex-related differences with regard to changes in cardiometabolic variables in response to a 4-week isoenergetic MedDiet. Participants were thirty-eight men and thirty-two premenopausal women aged between 25 and 50 years who had slightly elevated LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations (3·4–4·9 mmol/l) or total cholesterol:HDL-cholesterol ratio ≥ 5·0. A 4-week run-in period preceded the MedDiet in order to control the inter- and intra-individual variability. Cardiometabolic variables were measured before and after the MedDiet. Total cholesterol, LDL-C, apoB and apoA-1 plasma concentrations as well as diastolic blood pressure decreased (P < 0·05) in both men and women (respectively, 10, 10, 10, 6 and 5 % for men and 6, 7, 9, 4 and 4 % for women). ApoA-2 concentrations and insulin concentrations 2 h after the oral administration of 75 g of glucose demonstrated sex × time interactions (respectively,P = 0·05 andP = 0·03) and only men experienced a decrease for these variables (respectively, 8 and 25 %). In conclusion, consuming a MedDiet led to significant changes in plasma lipid profile in both men and women, while only men had significant improvements in insulin homeostasis. These results support the importance of investigating sex-related differences in response to diet in order to perhaps further individualise dietary guidelines in the prevention of CVD and type 2 diabetes.
Charlotte Wilson, the “Woman Question”, and the Meanings of Anarchist Socialism in Late Victorian Radicalism
Authors: Hinely Susan
Published: January 2012

Recent literature on radical movements in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries has re-cast this period as a key stage of contemporary globalization, one in which ideological formulations and radical alliances were fluid and did not fall neatly into the categories traditionally assigned by political history. The following analysis of Charlotte Wilson's anarchist political ideas and activism in late Victorian Britain is an intervention in this new historiography that both supports the thesis of global ideological heterogeneity and supplements it by revealing the challenge to sexual hierarchy that coursed through many of these radical cross-currents. The unexpected alliances Wilson formed in pursuit of her understanding of anarchist socialism underscore the protean nature of radical politics but also show an over-arching consensus that united these disparate groups, a common vision of the socialist future in which the fundamental but oppositional values of self and society would merge. This consensus arguably allowed Wilson's gendered definition of anarchism to adapt to new terms as she and other socialist women pursued their radical vision as activists in the pre-war women's movement.
DNS-based predictive control of turbulence: an optimal benchmark for feedback algorithms
Authors: BEWLEY THOMAS R. , MOIN PARVIZ , TEMAM ROGER
Published: January 2012

Direct numerical simulations (DNS) and optimal control theory are used in a predictive
control setting to determine controls that effectively reduce the turbulent kinetic
energy and drag of a turbulent flow in a plane channel at
Reτ = 100 and Reτ = 180.
Wall transpiration (unsteady blowing/suction) with zero net mass flux is used as the
control. The algorithm used for the control optimization is based solely on the control
objective and the nonlinear partial differential equation governing the flow, with no
ad hoc assumptions other than the finite prediction horizon, T, over which the control
is optimized.

Flow relaminarization, accompanied by a drag reduction of over 50%, is obtained
in some of the control cases with the predictive control approach in direct numerical
simulations of subcritical turbulent channel flows. Such performance far exceeds what
has been obtained to date in similar flows (using this type of actuation) via adaptive
strategies such as neural networks, intuition-based strategies such as opposition
control, and the so-called ‘suboptimal’ strategies, which involve optimizations over a
vanishingly small prediction horizon T+ → 0. To achieve flow relaminarization in the
predictive control approach, it is shown that it is necessary to optimize the controls
over a sufficiently long prediction horizon T+ [gsim ] 25. Implications of this result are
discussed.

The predictive control algorithm requires full flow field information and is computationally
expensive, involving iterative direct numerical simulations. It is, therefore,
impossible to implement this algorithm directly in a practical setting. However, these
calculations allow us to quantify the best possible system performance given a certain
class of flow actuation and to qualify how optimized controls correlate with the
near-wall coherent structures believed to dominate the process of turbulence production
in wall-bounded flows. Further, various approaches have been proposed to
distil practical feedback schemes from the predictive control approach without the
suboptimal approximation, which is shown in the present work to restrict severely
the effectiveness of the resulting control algorithm. The present work thus represents
a further step towards the determination of optimally effective yet implementable
control strategies for the mitigation or enhancement of the consequential effects of
turbulence.
Do the level of energy reserves, hydration status andBorreliainfection influence walking byIxodes ricinus(Acari: Ixodidae) ticks?
Authors: HERRMANN C. , GERN L.
Published: January 2012

Ixodes ricinushorizontal movement within a humidity gradient and the influence of infection byBorrelia burgdorferisensu lato (s.l.) on tick walking were investigated. Nymphs were placed within an arena containing a humidity gradient ranging from 45 to 95% relative humidity (RH). After 1 h of acclimation at 70% RH ticks were released so that they could either stay, or walk towards either the wet or the dry end. Their position was recorded 2 h post-release. Fat content was quantified andBorreliainfection was detected using real-time PCR and PCR followed by Reverse Line Blotting. Among the 1500 ticks tested, 29·85% were infected. More low-fat nymphs walked inside the arena than high-fat individuals. When nymphs walked, more low-fat ticks walked towards wetter than drier air, whereas more high-fat individuals walked towards drier than wetter air. Among high-fat nymphs, a lower proportion ofBorrelia-infected ticks walked inside the arena compared to uninfected individuals, as though spirochetes manipulated their arthropod vector to stay. However,Borreliainfection had no effect on walking direction towards the dry or the wet end. Hence, it appears thatI. ricinusnymphs walk horizontally over short distances within a humidity gradient depending on both energy resources andBorreliainfection.
T. F. Torrance on Scripture
Authors: Webster John
Published: January 2012

Although it was never completed and has had only slight impact, T. F. Torrance's work on the nature and interpretation of scripture is a primary element in his theology, though largely unstudied. For Torrance, a theology of scripture and its interpretation derive from a theology of revelation; revelation takes creaturely form in the incarnate Word, out of which is generated the apostolic community and its witness, which in turn generates scripture, the human word which ministers the divine Word. Scripture is the divine Word accommodated to human form, and so a sacrament or sign which refers to revelation; its social location is the life of the apostolic community. Interpretation of scripture is properly ‘depth-interpretation’, following the semantics of scripture by which reference to divine reality is made, rather than terminating on scripture's syntactical surface. Fitting interpretative practice follows the text's reference, penetrates to the thing signified, indwells its subject matters and listens to the divine Word. The interpreter is summoned to mortification of prejudice and constantly renewed attentiveness. Torrance's most impressive contribution to bibliology and hermeneutics was his insistence that both are ingredients within a theology of God's economic presence. There are some historical limitations to his work, along with a lack of interest in the Christian literary culture and lack of extended exegesis. However, his writings in the field constitute one of the most impressive Protestant accounts of the field in the last half-century.