Improved MATLAB GUIs for learning frequency response methods

The author developed two GUIs for asymptotic Bode plots and identification from such plots aimed at improving the learning of frequency response methods: these were presented at UKACC Control 2012. Student feedback and reflection by the author suggested various improvements to these GUIs, which have now been implemented. This paper reviews the earlier work, describes the improvements, and includes positive feedback from the students on the GUIs and how they have helped their understanding of the methods.

MALDI mass spectrometry in prostate cancer biomarker discovery

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) is a highly versatile and sensitive analytical technique, which is known for its soft ionisation of biomolecules such as peptides and proteins. Generally, MALDI MS analysis requires little sample preparation, and in some cases like MS profiling it can be automated through the use of robotic liquid-handling systems. For more than a decade now, MALDI MS has been extensively utilised in the search for biomarkers that could aid clinicians in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decision making. This review examines the various MALDI-based MS techniques like MS imaging, MS profiling and proteomics in-depth analysis where MALDI MS follows fractionation and separation methods such as gel electrophoresis, and how these have contributed to prostate cancer biomarker research. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Biomarkers: A Proteomic Challenge.

Direct anthelmintic effects of condensed tannins from diverse plant sources against Ascaris suum

Ascaris suum is one of the most prevalent nematode parasites in pigs and causes significant economic losses, and also serves as a good model for A. lumbricoides, the large roundworm of humans that is ubiquitous in developing countries and causes malnutrition, stunted growth and compromises immunity to other pathogens. New treatment options for Ascaris infections are urgently needed, to reduce reliance on the limited number of synthetic anthelmintic drugs. In areas where Ascaris infections are common, ethno-pharmacological practices such as treatment with natural plant extracts are still widely employed. However, scientific validation of these practices and identification of the active compounds are lacking, although observed effects are often ascribed to plant secondary metabolites such as tannins. Here, we extracted, purified and characterised a wide range of condensed tannins from diverse plant sources and investigated anthelmintic effects against A. suum in vitro. We show that condensed tannins can have potent, direct anthelmintic effects against A. suum, as evidenced by reduced migratory ability of newly hatched third-stage larvae and reduced motility and survival of fourth-stage larvae recovered from pigs. Transmission electron microscopy showed that CT caused significant damage to the cuticle and digestive tissues of the larvae. Furthermore, we provide evidence that the strength of the anthelmintic effect is related to the polymer size of the tannin molecule. Moreover, the identity of the monomeric structural units of tannin polymers may also have an influence as gallocatechin and epigallocatechin monomers exerted significant anthelmintic activity whereas catechin and epicatechin monomers did not. Therefore, our results clearly document direct anthelmintic effects of condensed tannins against Ascaris and encourage further in vivo investigation to determine optimal strategies for the use of these plant compounds for the prevention and/or treatment of ascariosis.

A MATLAB GUI for learning controller design in the frequency domain

A MATLAB GUI is presented which is used to help students learn to design controllers in the frequency domain. It complements the author’s two previous GUIs for plotting and identification of systems in the frequency domain. It also incorporates the concept used in the “electronic calculator that makes students think” to assist learning. Positive student feedback affirms that the GUI has helped their understanding.