bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near‐infrared spectroscopic analysis of deterioration indices of soybeans for process control in oil milling plant
Authors: Sato Tetsuo , Abe Hideyuki , Kawano Sumio , Ueno Goro , Suzuki Kiyoji , Iwamoto Mutsuo
Published: July 2007

The feasibility of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was examined for analyzing quality criteria or deterioration induces of soybeans, such as the nitrogen solubility index (NSI), acid value, digestibility and percentage germination, as well as the contents of their major constituents (moisture, oil and total nitrogen). Because all the criteria are closely related to yield and quality of the final product, their rapid analysis is required for process control in the oil milling plant. NIR diffuse‐reflectace spectra were measured on ground samples in an InfraAlyzer 500 (Bran+Luebbe Co., Norderstedt, Germany). As for the major constituents, the standard errors of prediction (SEP) were 0.34% (moisture), 0.24% (oil) and 0.067% (total nitrogen). There results show the ability of NIR for analyzing these parameters, as many researchers reported previously. As for the other quality criteria, the SEP values were 2.40 (NSI), 5.58 (digestibility), 0.29 (acid value) and 15.27 (germinatio percentage). Further, NIR analysis for some of these criteria of the extracted residue and defatted soybeans was also examined, and almost the same level of SEP values was obtained. Although it is still necessary to improve the accuracy, we concluded that the NIR method has the feasibility to measure quality criteria for the purpose of process control in the plant in place of the time‐consuming chemical analysis that are conventionally used.
Antipolymerization activity of oat extract in soybean and cottonseed oils under frying conditions
Authors: Tian L. L. , White P. J.
Published: July 2007

A methanolic extract of Noble oat (Avena sativa L.) was tested for its antipolymerization activity in soybean and cottonseed oils heated to 180°C for 10 h per day for 10 d and for its carry‐through properties in fried bread cubes. The soybean and cottonseed oils containing 0.005 or 0.007% oat extract (based on total phenolic content) formed significantly lesser amounts of polar compounds with high molecular weight than did the oils containing 0.02% tertiary butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ), 1 ppm dimethylpolysiloxane (DMS) and oils containing no additives (control) as measured by high‐performance size‐exclusion chromatography. Fatty acid composition, also monitored, showed that oils with either level of oat extract maintained a significantly higher linoleic‐to‐palmitic acid ratio (18∶2/16∶0) than did the other treatments. Oil extracted from bread cubes fried (180°C) in oils containing TBHQ and oat extract and then stored at 60°C in the dark for up to 14 d had significantly lower (P≤0.05) peroxide values and higher (P≤0.05) 18∶2/16∶0 ratios than did oil extracted from cubes fried in oil containing DMS and in the control oil.
Oxidative stability of blends and interesterified blends of soybean oil and palm olein
Authors: Neff W. E. , El‐Agaimy M. A. , Mounts T. L.
Published: July 2007

Improvement of oxidative stability of soybean oil by blending with a more stable oil was investigated. Autoxidation of blends and interesterified blends (9∶1, 8∶2, 7∶3 and 1∶1, w/w) of soybean oil and palm olein was studied with respect to fatty acid composition, fatty acid location and triacylglycerol composition. Rates of formation of triacylglycerol hydroproxides, peroxide value and volatiles were evaluated. The fatty acid composition of soybean oil was changed by blending. Linolenic and linoleic acids decreased and oleic acid increased. The triacylglycerol composition of blends and interesterified blends was different from that of soybean oil. Relative to soybean oil, LnLL, LLL, LLO, LLP, LOO and LLS triacylglycerols were lowered and POO, POP and PLP were higher in blends and interesterified blends (where Ln, L, O, P and S represent linolenic, linoleic, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids, respectively). Interesterification of the blends leads to a decrease in POO and POP and an increase in LOP. Linoleic acid concentration at triacylglycerol carbon‐2 was decreased by blending and interesterification. Rates of change for peroxide value and oxidation product formation confirmed the improvement of soybean oil stability by blending and interesterification. But, blends were more stable than interesterified blends. Also, the formation of hexanal, the major volatile of linoleate hydroperoxides of soybean oil, was decreased by blending and interesterification.
Effects of expander process on the phospholipids in soybean oil
Authors: Zhang F. , Koseoglu S. S. , Rhee K. C.
Published: July 2007

Crude oils were extracted from soybean flakes and collets by conventional and expander processes, respectively. The phospholipids were removed by degumming, and the lecithins were produced by using commercial procedures. The effects of the expander process on the degumming efficiencies were evaluated. The differences in the phosphatide compositions of the oils and the lecithins produced from expander and conventional processes were compared by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The phosphorus content indicated that expander‐processed oil contained more phosphorus (985 ppm) than the conventional oil (840 ppm). However, the phospholipids in the expander‐processed oil were more hydratable than those in the conventional oil. After degumming, the phosphorus content in the expander‐processed and conventional oil were reduced by 93.2 and 78.6%, respectively. The expander‐processed lecithin contained 74.3% acetone‐insoluble matter (AI), and the conventional lecithin contained 65.8%. More phosphatidylcholine was found in the expander‐processed lecithin (39.78%, based on AI) than in the conventionally processed lecithin (34.19%). The phosphatidylinositol contents of the expander‐processed lecithin and the conventional lecithin are almost the same (19.95 and 19.97%). The phosphatidylethanolamine in the expander‐processed lecithin (12.36%) was lower than that in the conventional lecithin (18.07%).
Quantitation of volatile compounds in heated trilinolein by static headspace‐capillary gas chromatography/infrared spectroscopy‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Mahungu Symon M. , Hansen Steven L. , Artz William E.
Published: July 2007

Static headspace and capillary gas chromatography/infrared spectroscopy‐mass spectrometry were used to collect, separate, detect and quantitate the oxidative and thermal decomposition products in heated trilinolein. Trilinolein without added antioxidants was heated in a deep‐fat fryer at 190°C for 12 h each day for a total of 24 h until the amount of polymeric material in the oil exceeded 20%. The concentration of the volatile compounds in trilinolein, as well as thep‐anisidine values and polymer content, increased with an increase in heating time. After 24 h of heating, the concentrations of the major volatile compounds (>10 ppm) had increased as follows: pentane (33.4–398.7 ppm), pentanal (11.7–73.5 ppm), 1‐pentanol (5.2–46.7 ppm), hexanal (67.6–346.1 ppm), (E)‐2‐hexenal (12.9–87.6 ppm), (E)‐2‐heptenal (309.6–894.1 ppm), 1‐octen‐3‐ol (35.2–150.2 ppm), formic acid (0–18.7 ppm), hexanoic acid (0–83.8 ppm), heptanal (2.5–29.5 ppm), 2‐pentylfuran (29.2–146.9 ppm), (E)‐2‐octenal (26.4–347.2 ppm), (E)‐2‐octenal (26.4–347.2 ppm), (E)‐2‐nonenal (31.6–163.2 ppm), (E,Z)‐2,4‐decadienal (15.0–320 ppm) and (E,E)‐2,4‐decadienal (43.1–1137.5 ppm).
SD&C Technical phosphates as energy savers in machine dishwash performance
Authors: Langguth R. P. , Casey E. A.
Published: July 2007

A savings of 20% in the energy consumption of machine dishwashers to meet government guidelines requires a significant reduction in the amount of water used or in the temperature of the wash. Performance testing has shown that a reduction in wash temperature from 140 F to 100 F results in a significant increase in the spotting and filming of glassware. This performance loss to conserve energy can be reduced by increasing the sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) content of the machine dishwash formulation. A reduction in the STP content of the formulation from the typical 40–45% level that would be required to comply with restrictive phosphate (8.7% P) legislation coupled with a decrease in wash temperature for energy conservation results in extremely poor washing performance.
A structural approach to the assessment of fracture risk in children and adolescents with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Leonard Mary B.
Published: July 2007

Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have multiple risk factors for impaired accretion of trabecular and cortical bone. CKD during childhood poses an immediate fracture risk and compromises adult bone mass, resulting in significantly greater skeletal fragility throughout life. High-turnover disease initially results in thickened trabeculae, with greater bone volume. As disease progresses, resorption cavities dissect trabeculae, connectivity degrades, and bone volume decreases. Increased bone turnover also results in increased cortical porosity and decreased cortical thickness. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-based measures of bone mineral density (BMD) are derived from the total bone mass within the projected bone area (g/cm2), concealing distinct disease effects in trabecular and cortical bone. In contrast, peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) estimates volumetric BMD (vBMD, g/cm3), distinguishes between cortical and trabecular bone, and provides accurate estimates of cortical dimensions. Recent data have confirmed that pQCT measures of cortical vBMD and thickness provide substantially greater fracture discrimination in adult dialysis patients compared with hip or spine DXA. The following review considers the structural effects of renal osteodystrophy as it relates to fracture risk and the potential advantages and disadvantages of DXA and alternative measures of bone density, geometry, and microarchitecture, such as pQCT, micro-CT (μCT), and micro magnetic resonance imaging (μMRI) for fracture risk assessment.
Fruit phenology of Prunus jamasakura and the feeding habit of the Asiatic black bear as a seed disperser
Authors: Koike Shinsuke , Kasai Shinsuke , Yamazaki Koji , Furubayashi Kengo
Published: July 2007

We investigated the relationship between the fruit phenology of Prunus jamasakura and the fruit‐feeding period of the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus). The purposes of this study were to determine (1) when bears feed on the fruit of P. jamasakura in relation to phenology; (2) whether ingestion damages seeds; and (3) how ingestion influences seed germination. We assessed the relationship between the phenology of fruit maturation (size, sugar concentration, color, persistence, and germination percentage) and the feeding period of bears in the field, as judged from bear shelves and claw marks. We also compared the germination percentage of seeds ingested by captive bears with that of uningested. Bears fed on the fruit from days 50 to 66 after flowering, when most of the fruits were on the tree and became large, the germination percentage of seeds increased, and the sugar concentration became high. Bears fed only on mature fruits and so obtained high‐quality nutrients. Germination tests showed that ingestion of fruits by the bears caused no physical damage to the seeds. Ingested seeds did not show a significant difference in germination percentage from seeds, whose pulp was artificially removed. These results indicate that bears are potentially effective dispersers from a qualitative perspective and, to some extent, from a quantitative perspective.
On the Relationships between Sum Score Based Estimation and Joint Maximum Likelihood Estimation
Authors: del Pino Guido , San Martín Ernesto , González Jorge , De Boeck Paul
Published: July 2007

This paper analyzes the sum score based (SSB) formulation of the Rasch model, where items and sum scores of persons are considered as factors in a logit model. After reviewing the evolution leading to the equality between their maximum likelihood estimates, the SSB model is then discussed from the point of view of pseudo-likelihood and of misspecified models. This is then employed to provide new insights into the origin of the known inconsistency of the difficulty parameter estimates in the Rasch model. The main results consist of exact relationships between the estimated standard errors for both models; and, for the ability parameters, an upper bound for the estimated standard errors of the Rasch model in terms of those for the SSB model, which are more easily available.
Extensive Implant Reaction in Failed Subtalar Joint Arthroereisis: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Scher David M. , Bansal Manjula , Handler-Matasar Sheryl , Bohne Walther H. , Green Daniel W.
Published: July 2007

Foreign body synovitis with extensive granulomatous giant cell reaction to refractile polyethelene debris is a complication of subtalar arthroereisis not previously reported. We present two cases whereby STA-peg implants were used to treat bilateral painful flexible flatfoot deformities in children. Two boys, presented at 7 and 10 years of age, 2 years after STA-peg procedures and tendo-Achilles lengthening for painful flatfeet. They each had minimal subtalar motion and pain at the sinus tarsi. Radiographs demonstrated surgical defects in the calcaneus with surrounding high signal on the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the subchondral bone of the calcaneus and talus. Both patients failed conservative management and had their implants removed with good relief of their pain. Histology was submitted at the time of implant removal. We present the radiographic and pathologic findings seen in these two patients with failed subtalar arthroereisis due to extensive implant reaction. The pathologic process seen in these patients is a previously unreported complication of this procedure. We do not recommend arthroereisis in the treatment of painful flexible flatfoot in children.
Return to life and reconstruct Confucianism: An outline of comparative study on Confucianism and phenomenology
Authors: Yushun HUANG
Published: July 2007

Confucianism can be analyzed at three levels of ideas: life as existence (Sein) itself; the Confucian metaphysics about metaphysical beings; and the Confucian doctrines about tangible existences. In the eyes of Confucians, life itself is displayed as the feeling of benevolence in the first place. To reconstruct Confucianism is to return to life and perceive it as a fundamental source. That means to historically return to the original Confucianism during and even before the Axial Period, in essence it is to simultaneously return to our immediate life itself, and then on this basis to reconstruct both Confucian metaphysics and Confucian doctrines about tangible existences.
Protein–Protein Interactions in High Moisture‐Extruded Meat Analogs and Heat‐Induced Soy Protein Gels
Authors: Liu Ke Shun , Hsieh Fu‐Hung
Published: July 2007

Two commercial soy protein isolates were made into fibrous meat analogs by high moisture extrusion or into gels by heating and cooling, at varying concentrations and/or temperatures. Protein–protein interactions by extrusion or gelation were investigated through protein solubility studies of raw and finished products. All samples except for extrudates exhibited similar patterns of solubility in four selected extractants. Phosphate buffer (PB) extracted the least amount of protein. Addition of dithiothreitol (DTT) to PB improved protein solubility, indicating the presence of disulfide bonds. PB + Urea and PB + Urea + DTT gave the highest and almost equal amount of extractable proteins from all samples, except for the extrudates from which protein could not be extracted effectively by PB + Urea, implying that disulfide bonding was more pronounced during extrusion than gelation. The results support our hypothesis that soy protein gels and extrudates both have the same types of chemical bonds, namely covalent disulfide bonds and non‐covalent interactions. It is the relative proportion of each type of bonds in their structures that differentiates the two with respect to reversibility and structure rigidity. In forming protein gels during heat‐induced gelation, non‐covalent bonds play a dominant role over disulfide bonds; whereas for forming the fibrous structure of protein extrudates, non‐covalent bonds and covalent disulfide bonds are both important.
Genetische Grundlagen der Migräne
Authors: Kubisch C.
Published: July 2007

Die Migräne ist eine periodische neurovaskuläre Erkrankung mit einer Lebenszeitprävalenz von >15%. Obwohl bereits lange bekannt ist, dass sie familiär gehäuft auftritt, sind die genetischen Suszeptibilitätsfaktoren der häufigen Migräneformen bis jetzt nicht bekannt. Demgegenüber sind bereits 3 Gene identifiziert worden, die die familiäre hemiplegische Migräne – eine seltene monogene Subform – verursachen können. Bei allen 3 Genprodukten handelt es sich um Ionentransportproteine, sodass auch die Migräne wenigstens z. T. zu den so genannten „channelopathies“ zu zählen ist, die auf einer neuronalen Übererregbarkeit beruhen. Systematische und genomweite Screeningverfahren in großen Patienten- und Familienkollektiven werden in naher Zukunft zeigen, inwiefern auch die komplex vererbten Migräneformen zu dieser Gruppe von Erkrankungen gehören oder ob diese häufigen und individuell oft schwer belastenden Störungen eine distinkte molekulare Pathogenese aufweisen.
Altersabhängige Makuladegeneration
Authors: Fiebig B.S. , Weber B.H.F.
Published: July 2007

Die altersabhängige Makuladegeneration (AMD) ist eine komplexe Erkrankung der zentralen Netzhaut mit einer Prävalenz von 12% in der Bevölkerung über 80 Jahre. Spätstadien sind heute die häufigste Ursache von Erblindung im Sinne des Gesetzes. Das Erkrankungsrisiko wird von exogenen und endogenen Faktoren beeinflusst. Zu den umweltbedingten Risikofaktoren gehört v. a. das Rauchen. Erste Hinweise auf genetische Faktoren ergaben sich aus Zwillings- und familiäre Aggregationsstudien. Jüngere Arbeiten haben genetische Varianten an 2 Genorten beschrieben, die mit einem stark erhöhten Risiko für die Entwicklung einer AMD einhergehen. Während die 1q32-assoziierten Varianten auf das Komplement-Faktor-H(CFH)-Gen und damit auf eine Rolle der angeborenen Immunität und entzündlicher Reaktionen in der Ätiologie der AMD verweisen, ist der funktionelle Beitrag des LOC387715/HTRA(HtrA-Serin-Peptidase-1)-Genorts in 10q26 noch unverstanden. In den kommenden Jahren ist zu erwarten, dass das Wissen um die genetischen Faktoren und deren zelluläre Rolle in der Netzhaut weiter zunehmen und Eingang in die klinische Betreuung der Patienten finden wird.
„Syndrom“ multiple Sklerose
Authors: Akkad D.A. , Epplen J.T. , Gold R.
Published: July 2007

Manifestation und Verlauf der multifaktoriell bedingten Erkrankung multiple Sklerose (MS) als häufigster neuroinflammatorischer/-degenerativer Erkrankung des Nervensystems unterliegen mannigfaltigen genetischen und Umwelteinflüssen. Differenzialdiagnostik und (symptomorientierte) Therapie bedürfen neben modernen technischen Hilfsmitteln des erfahrenen Neurologen, um andere chronische entzündlich-degenerative Prozesse auszuschließen bzw. die Behandlung optimal anzupassen. Bemühungen, den komplexen genetischen MS-Beitrag aufzuklären, zeigen Teilerfolge in vertiefter Kooperation zwischen Klinik und Grundlagenforschung.
Cell Saver: Is it beneficial in scoliosis surgery?
Authors: Weiss Jennifer M. , Skaggs David , Tanner John , Tolo Vernon
Published: July 2007

Study design

Review of the use of Cell Saver in a non-randomized group of patients undergoing spinal fusion for scoliosis.

Objectives

To determine the efficacy of the use of Cell Saver for spinal fusions for scoliosis.

Summary of background data

Although Cell Saver is widely used in scoliosis surgery, it is not clear whether its use decreases the need for other transfusions or whether there are certain patients more likely to benefit from its use. The blood collected by Cell Saver intraoperatively is not always of sufficient volume to be returned to the patient, and there are no current guidelines addressing the amount that is likely to be returned to the patient.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine: Does use of Cell Saver reduce the need for other transfusions in scoliosis surgery? Is there an amount of blood loss at which Cell Saver is likely to be returned?

Materials and methods

The study group consisted of 95 children who had undergone posterior spinal fusion between January 2002 and March 2004 with one of two surgeons. One surgeon used Cell Saver, the other surgeon did not. Of the total, 58 patients who underwent posterior spinal fusion with the use of Cell Saver (group 1) were compared with the 37 (group 2) who underwent the same procedure without the use of Cell Saver.

Results

Of those in group 1, 34 received Cell Saver blood back as an intraoperative autologous transfusion (IAT) (59%). Patients in the Cell Saver group were just as likely to receive non-Cell Saver transfusions as those in the control group ( P = 0.12). Of the 39 patients who lost more than 500 cc of blood, 34 received IAT (87%). No patient who lost less than 500 cc of blood received IAT.

Conclusion

The use of Cell Saver does not reduce the need for other transfusions in scoliosis surgery. The amount of blood loss at which Cell Saver is likely to be returned is 500 cc. We demonstrated no benefit in the use of Cell Saver in our patient population.
Pregabalin for relief of neuropathic pain associated with diabetic neuropathy: A randomized, double‐blind study
Authors: Tölle Thomas , Freynhagen Rainer , Versavel Mark , Trostmann Uwe , Young James P.
Published: July 2007

Seven published, randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trials with pregabalin have shown robust efficacy for relief of neuropathic pain from DPN and PHN. An investigation of the efficacy and safety of twice daily pregabalin enrolled 395 adults with painful DPN for ≥1 year in a 12‐week, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Patients were randomized to placebo, 150, 300, or 600mg/day pregabalin (n=96, 99, 99, and 101). Primary efficacy measure was change from baseline in endpoint mean pain score from patients’ daily pain diaries. Secondary efficacy measures included pain‐related sleep‐interference scores, Patient and Clinical Global Impressions of Change (PGIC, CGIC), and the EuroQOL Health Utilities Index (EQ‐5D). Statistically significant reduction in pain was observed in patients receiving pregabalin 600mg/day, and 46% of patients treated with 600mg/day pregabalin reported ≥50% improvement in mean pain scores from baseline (vs 30% of placebo patients, p=0.036). Number needed to treat to achieve such response was 6.3. Pregabalin 600mg/day was significantly superior to placebo in improving pain‐related sleep‐interference scores (p=0.003), PGIC (p=0.021), and CGIC (p=0.009). (Neither pregabalin 150 nor 300mg/day separated from placebo on these measures, largely because of an atypically large placebo response in one country representing 42% of patients.) All pregabalin dosages were superior to placebo in improving EQ‐5D utility scores (all p≥0.0263 vs placebo). Pregabalin was well tolerated at all dosages; adverse events were generally mild to moderate. Number needed to harm (discontinuation because of adverse events) was 10.3 for pregabalin 600mg/day.
2006 ALA Survey on Industrial Laboratory Automation
Authors: Hamilton Steven D.
Published: July 2007

This article reports the results of a survey examining the practice of laboratory automation in industrial laboratories. This survey polled 400 ALA industrially employed members and received 72 responses representing the R&D components of 37 different companies in Pharmaceutical, Biotech, and Agriculture Science sectors. The survey consisted of 14 questions. For purposes of this report, the survey results are broken into three sections: (1) How laboratory automation gets done; (2) Why automate—success and return on automation; and (3) Technical aspects of automation. Some of these same questions have been part of surveys conducted in the past among attendees of LabAutomation Conference short courses, and that historical data will be compared. (JALA 2007;12:239–46)
Establishment of a Flexible Platform for an Automated Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor—ELISA
Authors: Schneider Ilka , Stoll Paul , Haller Daniel , Thurow Kerstin
Published: July 2007

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a standard immunoassay to estimate protein concentrations in a variety of samples. An automated ELISA procedure was established that allows the measurement of the concentration of numerous proteins in a small sample volume. The automated ELISA procedure was tested by measuring the concentration of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in serum samples from humans.

It was shown that the reproducibility of protein concentrations in three assay plates within one automated run was greater than 92%, within independent automated experiments greater than 96%. Automated processing with a maximum capacity of six plates and 240 serum samples per run showed an average interassay precision of 91 %. Serial dilutions of randomly chosen sera displayed significant linearity of recovered concentration.

In conclusion it can be stated that the automated assay provides high flexibility with highly reproducible results and has several advantages compared to the manual method, including less operator dependence and faster sample throughput. The investigated ELISA test system seems to exhibit analytical characteristics indicating further clinical application. (JALA 2007;12:219–29)
Automation of Nucleic Acid Isolation on KingFisher Magnetic Particle Processors
Authors: Fang Xingwang , Willis Roy C. , Burrell Angela , Evans Kurt , Hoang Quoc , Xu Weiwei , Bounpheng Mangkey
Published: July 2007

We describe automated nucleic acid (NA) isolation from diverse sample types using MagMAX kits (Ambion, Inc.) on KingFisher Magnetic Particle Processors (Thermo Scientific). The MagMAX-96 Blood RNA Isolation Kit is designed for total RNA isolation from whole blood from several species, without white blood cell fractionation, in about 45 min (including genomic DNA removal). The MagMAX-96 Total RNA Isolation Kit is designed for total RNA isolation from up to 2 × 10 6 cultured cells and up to 10-mg tissue. The isolated total RNA is highly intact and pure, ready to use in downstream applications such as microarray analysis or real-time reverse transcription (RT)-PCR for gene expression profiling or pathogen detection. The MagMAX-96 Viral RNA Isolation Kit is designed for viral RNA and DNA isolation from cell free or nearly cell-free samples such as swabs, serum, and plasma; it takes about 15 min. Total NA of high quality and purity is recovered at >75% efficiency, providing high sensitivity for pathogen detection by real-time RT-PCR. Unlike automated liquid handling systems that move reagents into and out of a single well of a multiwell plate to perform the different steps of an RNA isolation procedure, the KingFisher Magnetic Particle Processors use permanent magnetic rods to collect magnetic beads from solution and release them into another well containing reagent for the subsequent step of the procedure. The effectiveness of bead collection and transfer lead to superior washing and elution efficiency, as well as rapid processing. It is a very effective strategy for automation of magnetic-bead-based NA isolation kits. (JALA 2007; 12:195–201)
‘Our bodies, our selves?’ The body as source in feminist theology
Authors: Moulaison Jane Barter
Published: July 2007

This article is, in part, an effort to come to terms with the ubiquitous celebration of embodiment in feminist discourse, and particularly within feminist theology. It will begin with a brief introduction to some of the key concepts in feminist theology and its use of the body, beginning with the body theologies of those who might now be called ‘second-wave’ theologians – Carter Heyward and Beverly Harrison. From here, I will consider postmodern feminist challenges to the reified and essentialised body as I examine what I call the subversive body in third-wave or postmodern feminism, both secular and theological. Finally, I shall move from these to an alternative construal of the importance of the body through the consideration of Christian bodily practices. Such an alternative will allow me to reflect upon what it is to become a specifically Christian body through church practices. I shall then endeavour to return to the critical concerns raised by feminism about the subjugation of women's bodies in the church as I consider the resources that might be available within the tradition itself for critical and emancipatory practices toward women and other strangers within the Body of Christ.
Why torture?
Authors: BLAKELEY RUTH
Published: July 2007

I develop a framework to account for torture, which I argue should be understood with reference to international relations. I show that torture is intended as a tool to ensure the security, stability and legitimacy of elites, often transnationally, but there is often a disjuncture between its intended and actual outcomes. Despite dominant claims that torture is used to defeat security threats, most torture is intended to deter political opposition and secure legitimacy for elites. I conclude that torture should be renounced, both on moral grounds, and because it is not necessary for the functions it is intended to serve.
Time and crisis: framing success and failure in Romania’s post-communist transformations
Authors: POP LILIANA
Published: July 2007

This article analyses the complex interplay between domestic systemic transformations in post-communist Europe and the reintegration of these countries in the global political economy, through a study of the relationship between successive Romanian governments and the international financial institutions in the 1990s. Conceptually, it seeks to overcome the dichotomies of realist and rationalist approaches to international relations by deploying fields, habitus and practices conceptual framework inspired by the work of Pierre Bourdieu. The article captures both the symbolic and material-structural dimensions of the interaction between domestic field-creation and the reproduction of global economic and political fields. It suggests that practices aimed at the reproduction of power hierarchies are also modulated by symbolic requirements, to save face and to avoid whenever possible open conflict, related to the logic of honour.
The use of temozolomide as a radiosensitiser for the treatment of newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Walsh N. , Fleet A.
Published: July 2007

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most commonly occurring adult brain tumour and has the worst prognosis. Radiobiologically, GBM exhibits radioresistant characteristics, which may contribute to its incurability. The use of a chemical radiosensitiser combined with radiotherapy may be an exploitable mechanism to improve therapeutic gain. Temozolomide (TMZ) is a promising new alkylating agent that has been introduced into clinical practice over the last decade and has shown modest activity against high-grade gliomas. This paper aims to evaluate the evidence base for the use of TMZ as a radiosensitiser in practice by reviewing published literature. Findings demonstrate promising improvements in progression-free and overall survival for patients with GBM receiving concomitant and adjuvant TMZ and radiotherapy compared with radiotherapy alone. These results are evaluated to put forth recommendations for further research.
Differences in radiation therapy staff and students’ perceptions of clinical teaching characteristics
Authors: Palmer Cathryne , Naccarato Natassia
Published: July 2007

Background: The clinical practicum provides an opportunity for students to apply and integrate classroom theory and clinical practice and competence effectively. In a teaching hospital, it is the responsibility of all staff to participate in clinical teaching and every interaction with a student constitutes a learning experience. The clinical teaching characteristics that are important to students and facilitate learning are not clearly defined in radiation therapy practice.

Objective: To determine and compare the perceptions of the most and the least important clinical teaching characteristics as identified by radiation therapy staff and students.

Methods: A self-administered, online questionnaire was used. The questionnaire was developed using clinical teaching characteristics identified in the literature and from Knox and Mogan’s Nursing Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Inventory. Participants were asked to rate on a 4-point, Likert-type scale the importance of the teaching characteristics with 1 being ‘not at all important’ and 4 being ‘very important’. Of the 150 questionnaires distributed, 49 radiation therapists and 10 students responded to the survey, constituting a 39% response rate.

Results: There was generally a greater agreement between staff and students in terms of rating the least important teaching characteristics, being in the categories of interpersonal relationships and personality traits. Staff ranked characteristics in the category of Clinical Competence as most important, whereas the most important clinical teaching characteristics for students were dispersed amongst all categories.

Conclusion: Radiation therapy staff and students place great emphasis on the demonstration of clinical competence in the teaching–learning process; clinical teachers should be made aware of and develop these characteristics, which ultimately assist in the student’s success.
Observed and modeled thermosphere and ionosphere response to superstorms
Authors: Fuller‐Rowell Tim , Codrescu Mihail , Maruyama Naomi , Fredrizzi Mariangel , Araujo‐Pradere Eduardo , Sazykin Stan , Bust Gary
Published: July 2007

Observations and numerical simulations of the response of the thermosphere and ionosphere to “superstorms” illustrate that multiple processes are operating. The initial response at high latitude is thermospheric heating, thermal expansion, high‐velocity winds, wave surges, the initiation of a new global circulation, and the start of neutral composition changes. At low latitude, the initial response is driven by the penetration of magnetospheric electric fields, moving the equatorial ionization anomaly poleward, and enhancing both F region plasma densities and the total electron content at midlatitudes and low latitudes. Electron content also increases dramatically at the higher altitudes. In the later stages of the response, plasma densities begin to respond to the changing circulation; the transport of composition changes to midlatitudes and low latitudes; and the generation of disturbance dynamo effects, which either compete or combine with penetration fields. The observations and modeling indicate that all the processes have a significant impact at some time and place during the storm.
Cassini/Cosmic Dust Analyzer in situ dust measurements between Jupiter and Saturn
Authors: Altobelli N. , Dikarev V. , Kempf S. , Srama R. , Helfert S. , Moragas‐Klostermeyer G. , Roy M. , Grün E.
Published: July 2007

We report an analysis of the Cosmic Dust Analyzer data obtained during the interplanetary cruise of the Cassini spacecraft between Jupiter and Saturn. The data cover the time period between the Jupiter flyby and the Saturn orbit insertion. Seventeen dust particles on bound and unbound (hyperbolic) orbits were also detected, with sizes in the submicrometer to the micrometer range. Our measurements are compared with the Pioneer dust data obtained 30 years ago and model predictions. Particles on bound orbits have low eccentricities and low inclinations. Possible sources are short‐period Jupiter family comets and circumsolar dust. The impactors on hyperbolic orbits were identified as being most likely interstellar dust (ISD) grains with a radius of ≈0.4 μm. The corresponding flux of ≈2 × 10−5 m−2 s−1 is in a very good agreement with the ISD flux measurements performed by the Ulysses spacecraft over the same time period.
A simple advection‐dispersion model for the salt distribution in linearly tapered estuaries
Authors: Gay Peter S. , O'Donnell James
Published: July 2007

We present a simple advection‐dispersion model for the subtidal salt distribution in estuaries with linearly varying cross‐sectional area and a nonzero net salt flux. A novel analytic solution allows investigation of the dependence of the curvature and gradient of the longitudinal salinity distribution on runoff, dispersion coefficient, and channel contraction or expansion. The model predicts that in estuarine segments that contract toward the fresher boundary, the salinity gradient is stronger than in a prismatic channel. When the dispersion coefficient is large compared to the salinity intrusion lengthscale, (the product of segment length and net volume flux divided by cross‐sectional area at the ocean boundary), the curvature of the salt concentration may be negative, a characteristic not possible in uniform channel models. The main effect of up‐estuary salt flux is to strengthen the salinity gradient. The model can be extended to multiple segments in order to simulate geometrically complicated estuaries. The model is employed to estimate an effective dispersion coefficient and to describe the salinity variation in the western 53 km of Long Island Sound where the cross section of the basin varies linearly. Using 8 years of monthly observations at seven stations we find that, since the curvature of the vertically averaged salinity is negative, the model and data are consistent only if the net volume flux and salt flux are toward the fresher boundary, the East River. Combining prior estimates of the magnitudes of the fluxes and their uncertainties with the model and salinity observations using a least squares approach, we estimate the dispersion coefficient for the Western Sound as 580 m2/s.
Consistent and contrasting decadal Arctic sea ice thickness predictions from a highly optimized sea ice model
Authors: Miller Paul A. , Laxon Seymour W. , Feltham Daniel L.
Published: July 2007

Decadal hindcast simulations of Arctic Ocean sea ice thickness made by a modern dynamic‐thermodynamic sea ice model and forced independently by both the ERA‐40 and NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data sets are compared for the first time. Using comprehensive data sets of observations made between 1979 and 2001 of sea ice thickness, draft, extent, and speeds, we find that it is possible to tune model parameters to give satisfactory agreement with observed data, thereby highlighting the skill of modern sea ice models, though the parameter values chosen differ according to the model forcing used. We find a consistent decreasing trend in Arctic Ocean sea ice thickness since 1979, and a steady decline in the Eastern Arctic Ocean over the full 40‐year period of comparison that accelerated after 1980, but the predictions of Western Arctic Ocean sea ice thickness between 1962 and 1980 differ substantially. The origins of differing thickness trends and variability were isolated not to parameter differences but to differences in the forcing fields applied, and in how they are applied. It is argued that uncertainty, differences and errors in sea ice model forcing sets complicate the use of models to determine the exact causes of the recently reported decline in Arctic sea ice thickness, but help in the determination of robust features if the models are tuned appropriately against observations.
Recovery of surface reflectance spectra and evaluation of the optical depth of aerosols in the near‐IR using a Monte Carlo approach: Application to the OMEGA observations of high‐latitude regions of Mars
Authors: Vincendon M. , Langevin Y. , Poulet F. , Bibring J.‐P. , Gondet B.
Published: July 2007

We present a model of radiative transfer through atmospheric particles based on Monte Carlo methods. This model can be used to analyze and remove the contribution of aerosols in remote sensing observations. We have developed a method to quantify the contribution of atmospheric dust in near‐IR spectra of the Martian surface obtained by the OMEGA imaging spectrometer on board Mars Express. Using observations in the nadir pointing mode with significant differences in solar incidence angles, we can infer the optical depth of atmospheric dust, and we can retrieve the surface reflectance spectra free of aerosol contribution. Martian airborne dust properties are discussed and constrained from previous studies and OMEGA data. We have tested our method on a region at 90°E and 77°N extensively covered by OMEGA, where significant variations of the albedo of ice patches in the visible have been reported. The consistency between reflectance spectra of ice‐covered and ice‐free regions recovered at different incidence angles validates our approach. The optical depth of aerosols varies by a factor 3 in this region during the summer of Martian year 27. The observed brightening of ice patches does not result from frost deposition but from a decrease in the dust contamination of surface ice and (to a lower extent) from a decrease in the optical thickness of atmospheric dust. Our Monte Carlo–based model can be applied to recover the spectral reflectance characteristics of the surface from OMEGA spectral imaging data when the optical thickness of aerosols can be evaluated. It could prove useful for processing image cubes from the Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM) on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO).
Quantitative geomorphology of the White Mountains (California) using detrital apatite fission track thermochronology
Authors: Vermeesch Pieter
Published: July 2007

Detrital thermochronology has been proposed as a method for measuring average basin‐wide erosion rates. This paper illustrates how to use detrital apatite fission track (AFT) thermochronology to map out where in a basin erosion takes place. Five samples of detrital AFT ages were collected on an alluvial fan that is fed by the Marble Creek drainage basin in the northern White Mountains (California). Using a digital elevation model (DEM) to characterize the basin hypsometry and a few published basement samples to constrain the age‐elevation curve of the catchment, the detrital AFT distribution was predicted. Comparing the observed with the predicted age distributions reveals that localized rockfall events provide the sediment source of the currently active Marble Creek, but a composite sample from the entire alluvial fan indicates that, over longer time scales, the entire catchment contributes material to the debris‐flow dominated fan, with more material being derived from lower elevations than from higher up the Marble Creek Canyon. The observed AFT age distribution is compared with the hypsometric predictions using the “Cumulative Age Distribution” (CAD) which is the cumulative distribution of the measured ages. In contrast with probability density estimators and their cumulative equivalents, the CAD requires no numerical smoothing while properly accounting for (unequal) measurement uncertainties.
Stochastic uncertainty analysis for solute transport in randomly heterogeneous media using a Karhunen‐Loève‐based moment equation approach
Authors: Liu Gaisheng , Lu Zhiming , Zhang Dongxiao
Published: July 2007

A new approach has been developed for solving solute transport problems in randomly heterogeneous media using the Karhunen‐Loève‐based moment equation (KLME) technique proposed by Zhang and Lu (2004). The KLME approach combines the Karhunen‐Loève decomposition of the underlying random conductivity field and the perturbative and polynomial expansions of dependent variables including the hydraulic head, flow velocity, dispersion coefficient, and solute concentration. The equations obtained in this approach are sequential, and their structure is formulated in the same form as the original governing equations such that any existing simulator, such as Modular Three‐Dimensional Multispecies Transport Model for Simulation of Advection, Dispersion, and Chemical Reactions of Contaminants in Groundwater Systems (MT3DMS), can be directly applied as the solver. Through a series of two‐dimensional examples, the validity of the KLME approach is evaluated against the classical Monte Carlo simulations. Results indicate that under the flow and transport conditions examined in this work, the KLME approach provides an accurate representation of the mean concentration. For the concentration variance, the accuracy of the KLME approach is good when the conductivity variance is 0.5. As the conductivity variance increases up to 1.0, the mismatch on the concentration variance becomes large, although the mean concentration can still be accurately reproduced by the KLME approach. Our results also indicate that when the conductivity variance is relatively large, neglecting the effects of the cross terms between velocity fluctuations and local dispersivities, as done in some previous studies, can produce noticeable errors, and a rigorous treatment of the dispersion terms becomes more appropriate.
Comparison of new conditional value‐at‐risk‐based management models for optimal allocation of uncertain water supplies
Authors: Yamout Ghina M. , Hatfield Kirk , Romeijn H. Edwin
Published: July 2007

The paper studies the effect of incorporating the conditional value‐at‐risk (CVaRα) in analyzing a water allocation problem versus using the frequently used expected value, two‐stage modeling, scenario analysis, and linear optimization tools. Five models are developed to examine water resource allocation when available supplies are uncertain: (1) a deterministic expected value model, (2) a scenario analysis model, (3) a two‐stage stochastic model with recourse, (4) a CVaRα objective function model, and (5) a CVaRα constraint model. The models are applied over a region of east central Florida. Results show the deterministic expected value model underestimates system costs and water shortage. Furthermore, the expected value model produces identical cost estimates for different standard deviations distributions of water supplies with identical mean. From the scenario analysis model it is again demonstrated that the expected value of results taken from many scenarios underestimates costs and water shortages. Using a two‐stage stochastic mixed integer formulation with recourse permits an improved representation of uncertainties and real‐life decision making which in turn predicts higher costs. The inclusion of CVaRα objective function in the latter provides for the optimization and control of high‐risk events. Minimizing CVaRα does not, however, permit control of lower‐risk events. Constraining CVaRα while minimizing cost, on the other hand, allows for the control of high‐risk events while minimizing the costs of all events. Results show CVaRα exhibits continuous and consistent behavior with respect to the confidence level α, when compared to value‐at‐risk (VaRα).