bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DCF Techniques and Nonfinancial Measures in Capital Budgeting: A Contingency Approach Analysis
Authors: Chen Shimin
Published: February 2008

This study empirically examines capital budgeting methods. Based on 115 responses from a cross-sectional survey and two approaches to contingency fit, this study produces three basic findings. First, both discounted cash flow (DCF) techniques and nonfinancial measures are widely used in capital budgeting. However, DCF techniques are more important than nonfinancial measures, and nonfinancial measures appear to serve as a partial substitute when DCF analysis is less efficient. Second, DCF techniques and nonfinancial measures are not unconditionally appropriate. Although the impact of firm strategy on capital budgeting methods is not supported by the present results, the study shows that product standardization affects both capital budgeting methods, as hypothesized. Firms with high product standardization tend to place more emphasis on DCF analysis, while firms with low standardization are more likely to focus on nonfinancial measures. Third, an appropriate fit under contingency theory between product standardization and the two capital budgeting methods is significantly associated with a firm's satisfaction with the capital budgeting process.
Using Action Research to Improve Learning and the Classroom Learning Environment
Authors: Cunningham Billie M.
Published: February 2008

To a large extent, research in business and the social sciences is based on theoretical constructs about existing organizations, phenomena, or behavior, followed by tests of hypotheses derived from these constructs. The goal usually is to describe or explain the organizations, phenomena, or behavior being studied and/or to generalize the findings to future organizations, phenomena, or behavior. Conversely, the goal of action research is to effect a desirable change within a specific social setting—one in which the researcher is an active participant. It is a value-driven, cyclical, and transformative process that uses intervention in a setting, based on observation and theoretical constructs, to alleviate an observed problem or to increase the effectiveness of a practice in the setting. This paper describes action research and provides an example of how faculty can use it to help them diminish observed classroom problems or increase the effectiveness of their classroom strategies.
Accelerating Corporate Performance: Stock Buybacks with Zip
Authors: Kimmel Paul D. , Warfield Terry D.
Published: February 2008

Like many companies, Caravan International occasionally repurchases its shares in the open market. With a traditional stock repurchase program, Caravan and other companies sometimes are unable to maximize the financial reporting benefits of stock buybacks. However, the “Accelerated Share Repurchase” (ASR) agreement, recently introduced by the investment banking industry, allows companies to execute their treasury stock programs and take some of the uncertainty out of share repurchase transactions. This case provides a context for examining the specific benefits of these plans as well as the potential risks. It will help you understand earnings per share (EPS) calculations and the accounting for financial instruments used in ASRs. The case illustrates how managers sometimes structure transactions to take advantage of favorable accounting treatment, and thus achieve EPS targets.
What I Have Learned So Far: Observations on Managing an Academic Accounting Career
Authors: Hermanson Dana R.
Published: February 2008

In this commentary, I offer several observations for managing a successful and satisfying academic accounting career. First, I encourage readers to appreciate two key realities of the academic accounting labor market: the rewards derived from research and the massive shortage of accounting Ph.D.s. Second, I encourage readers to carefully consider the culture of potential employers, including such issues as the emphasis on “face time,” homogeneous versus heterogeneous treatment of faculty, and the fit between an institution's research culture and its resources and constraints. Finally, I encourage readers to maintain personal focus on critical goals by choosing opportunities judiciously, achieving multiple outputs from one effort, and recognizing that personal organization promotes success. These observations are based primarily on my own experiences and those of experienced, successful colleagues. While my comments are primarily for Ph.D. students and junior faculty, I hope that faculty at all ranks will find useful insights.
A Review and Analysis of the Existing Research Streams in Continuous Auditing
Authors: Brown Carol E. , Wong Jeffrey A. , Baldwin Amelia A.
Published: February 2008

A growing body of literature related to continuous auditing topics has developed. Advances in information technology and web-based applications are making monitoring and control of operations through continuous auditing increasingly important. The objective of this paper is to describe, summarize, and provide a framework for classifying the contributions of the diverse literature addressing the topic of continuous auditing. This paper was intended to provide researchers and practitioners with a background in continuous auditing topics. Our broad view of the literature is also designed to discover areas holding the potential for future research. Research streams are divided into five major categories: demand factors, theory and guidance, enabling technologies, applications, and impacts. Over 80 papers have been identified that relate to these areas. Many more articles exist, especially in the area of enabling technologies. However, the focus of our paper is the literature most closely related to continuous auditing.
Effective Use of Integrated Decision Making: An Advanced Technology Model for Evaluating Fraud in Service-Based Computer and Technology Firms
Authors: Lenard Mary Jane , Watkins Ann L. , Alam Pervaiz
Published: February 2008

Most fraud-detection models developed to date require the use of private information and focus on companies primarily in retail and manufacturing industries. In the wake of recent corporate failures, a broad spectrum of interested parties now uses publicly available information to monitor their investments. The central issue we raise in this paper is the ability of external parties to detect financial reporting fraud in service-based computer and technology organizations by using publicly available information. Utilizing both financial and nonfinancial information, we develop a model that employs logical reasoning through the use of Excel® and fuzzy logic. We predict fraud in these firms with 76.7 percent accuracy.
Identifying Qualified Auditors' Opinions: A Data Mining Approach
Authors: Kirkos Efstathios , Spathis Charalambos , Nanopoulos Alexandros , Manolopoulos Yannis
Published: February 2008

Data Mining methods can be used in order to facilitate auditors to issue their opinions. Numerous of these methods have not yet been tested on the purpose of discriminating cases of qualified opinions. In this study, we employ three Data Mining classification techniques to develop models capable of identifying qualified auditors' reports. The techniques used are C4.5 Decision Tree, Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network, and Bayesian Belief Network. The sample contains 450 publicly listed, nonfinancial U.K. and Irish firms. The input vector is composed of one qualitative and several quantitative variables. The three developed models are compared in terms of their performance. Additionally, variables that are associated with qualified reports and can be used as indicators are also revealed. The results of this study can be useful to internal and external auditors and company decision-makers.
Extraction of Structure and Content from the Edgar Database: A Template-Based Approach
Authors: Cong Yu , Kogan Alexander , Vasarhelyi Miklos A.
Published: February 2008

This paper presents a template-based approach to extract data from the EDGAR database. A set of heuristic-based templates is used to configure the trainable system in order to have one type of EDGAR filings processed in a single configuration. Such configurability is highly desirable as it adds expendability and flexibility to this system. The template-based approach also enables the system to extract both structural information and content from the filings in the EDGAR database. The ability to extract structural information from a section or a complete filing makes it possible to collect data from real-world documents for users of financial data in both academia and industry. We use the income statement section of 10-K filings to illustrate the system and the utilization of the template-based approach.
Job satisfaction in Serbian health care workers who work with disabled patients
Authors: Jovic-Vranes Aleksandra , Vesna Bjegovic , Boris Vranes , Natasa Milic
Published: February 2008

The study was undertaken to assess job satisfaction among health care workers (HCWs) who work with disabled patients and to identify the factors that contribute to their job satisfaction. This was a cross-sectional study conducted at nine rehabilitation centers in Serbia. The study sample consisted of doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and other HCWs (social workers, work and speech therapists, and psychologists). A self-administrated questionnaire was distributed to 170 HCWs. Chi square testing and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied. The response rate was 97.1% (165/170). Overall job satisfaction was reported by 22.4% of the respondents and was associated with hospital politics (odds ratio [OR], 4.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–15.30], personal relationships (OR, 13.96; 95% CI, 4.07–47.92) and the feeling of being able to provide a good quality of care (OR, 5.24; 95% CI, 1.62–16.99). Profession, age, and gender did not affect job satisfaction. In conclusion, the results show very low job satisfaction among HCWs. Improving contributing factors may lead to higher job satisfaction and a better quality of health care.
Risk factors in a patient with fungemia caused by fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans
Authors: Kaya Ayse , Yucel Muhterem , Yucel Istemi
Published: February 2008

Blood stream infections due to Candida species are becoming increasingly important causes of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Risk factors that predispose patients to developing invasive Candida infections have been documented as, iatrogenic and/or nosocomial conditions and immunosuppression. In the present report, we want to emphasize the risk factors that predispose individuals to the development of candidemia, particularly those that are relevant to our patient. We describe a female patient with diabetes mellitus who had been receiving glucocorticoids for 20 years as replacement therapy for hypopituitarism resulting from hypophysis adenoma surgery. The patient received antibiotic therapy for recurrent wound infections and was hospitalized for a long time, including a period in the intensive care unit and instrumented. The patient eventually succumbed to fungemia caused by a fluconazole-resistant strain of C. albicans strain.
Retroperitoneal giant schwannoma eroding lumbal vertebra: A case report with a literature review
Authors: Sakalauskaite Marija , Stanaitis Juozas , Cepkus Saulius , Pleckaitis Mindaugas , Lunevicius Raimundas
Published: February 2008

A huge schwannoma, located in the retroperitoneal space, is found very rarely. The main purpose of this paper is to present the case of a giant retroperitoneal schwannoma which partly invaded L4 vertebral body. The secondary purpose is to summarize the case-report articles on retroperitoneal schwannomas. A circumscribed heterogenic tumour was revealed on transabdominal sonography. It extended into the right retroperitoneal space. CT and MRI revealed a paravertebral tumour in the size of 11 cm × 9 cm, which is causing a partial lysis of L4 vertebral body (15% of vertebral capacity), expanding intravertebral foramen and filling the right retroperitoneal space. A preoperative core needle biopsy was performed and a benign schwannoma was diagnosed. A complete surgical excision of the tumour was achieved by a two-step operation. During the first step, the neurosurgeons made L4 hemilaminectomy, facetectomy and a transverse process resection by posterior extended approach. The general surgeons excised the residual retroperitoneal part of the tumour by midline transabdominal approach 10 days later. The diagnosis of benign schwannoma was verified histochemically. There were no sign of tumour recurrence or spine destabilization at the six-month follow-up. In conclusion, although majority of giant retroperitoneal schwannomas can be completely removed performing one-step operation, a preoperative consideration about rationality of two-step operation should be mandatory when tumour destructs a part of vertebral body. Our case shows that the combined two stage complete surgical excision of a giant retroperitoneal schwannoma, eroding 15% of L4 vertebra’s osseous capacity, is effective and does not have any negative influence on spinal stability.
Effects of a Single Session of Posterior-to-Anterior Spinal Mobilization and Press-up Exercise on Pain Response and Lumbar Spine Extension in People With Nonspecific Low Back Pain
Authors: Powers Christopher M , Beneck George J , Kulig Kornelia , Landel Robert F , Fredericson Michael
Published: February 2008

Background and Purpose

Posterior-to-anterior (PA) mobilization and press-up exercises are common physical therapy interventions used to treat low back pain. The purpose of this study was to examine the immediate effects of PA mobilization and a press-up exercise on pain with standing extension and lumbar extension in people with nonspecific low back pain.

Subjects

The study participants were 30 adults (19 women and 11 men) who were 18 to 45 years of age and had a diagnosis of nonspecific low back pain.

Methods

Lumbar segmental extension during a press-up maneuver was measured by dynamic magnetic resonance imaging prior to and immediately following a single session of either PA spinal mobilization or a press-up exercise. Pain scores before and after intervention were recorded with a visual analog scale. Differences between the treatment groups in pain and total lumbar extension were compared over time by use of a 2-way analysis of variance.

Results

Following both interventions, there was a significant reduction in the average pain scores for both groups (significant main effect for time, no interaction). Similarly, total lumbar extension significantly increased in both the PA mobilization group and the press-up group (significant main effect for time, no interaction). No significant differences between the 2 interventions in pain or lumbar extension were found.

Discussion and Conclusion

The findings of this study support the use of PA mobilization and a press-up exercise for improving lumbar extension in people with nonspecific low back pain. Although statistically significant within-group changes in pain were detected, the clinical meaningfulness of these changes is questionable.
A New Washback Model of Students’ Learning
Authors: Shih Chih-Min
Published: February 2008

Abstract:

This study investigated the washback of the General English Proficiency Test on English learning in Taiwan. The research sites were the applied foreign language departments of a university of technology and an institute of technology. The latter required day-division students to pass the first stage of the test's intermediate level or the school-administered make-up examination, whereas the former did not prescribe any General English Proficiency Test requirement. Department documents and records were reviewed, and the department chair, teachers, students, and parents or spouses of participating students were interviewed. One of the courses taught by each interviewed teacher, as well as activities in the self-study centre, were observed. Findings indicated that existing theories did not fully explain the washback of this test on educational context, so a new, tentative washback model is proposed.
High‐Surface‐Area Mesoporous Germanium from Oxidative Polymerization of the Deltahedral [Ge9]4– Cluster: Electronic Structure Modulation with Donor and Acceptor Molecules
Authors: Armatas G. S. , Kanatzidis M. G.
Published: February 2008

A high‐surface‐area mesoporous germanium is prepared by a new straightforward method that involves oxidative polymerization and no linking agents or external oxidants. The electronic structure of this Ge semiconductor exhibits reversible change towards absorption of various donor and acceptor organic molecules.
Cover Picture: Direct Growth of Flexible Carbon Nanotube Electrodes (Adv. Mater. 3/2008)
Authors: Chen J. , Minett A. I. , Liu Y. , Lynam C. , Sherrell P. , Wang C. , Wallace G. G.
Published: February 2008

Entangled networks of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) integrated into a highly conducting carbon layer can be grown on a range of substrates including glassy carbon and metal foils. On p. 566, Gordon Wallace and co‐workers report the fabrication of a continuous flexible CNT electrode with high surface area and conductivity. The electrode demonstrates a stable battery capacity of 572 mAh g–1. This discovery provides a direct route for the generation of large‐scale flexible CNT electrode materials.
Inside Front Cover: Enzyme‐Based Multi‐Component Optical Nanoprobes for Sequence‐Specific Detection of DNA Hybridization (Adv. Mater. 3/2008)
Authors: Li J. , Song S. , Liu X. , Wang L. , Pan D. , Huang Q. , Zhao Y. , Fan C.
Published: February 2008

A novel multicomponent gold nanoparticle (AuNP)‐based nanoprobe can be assembled from a thiolated DNA detection probe, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), and bovine serum albumin (BSA), report Shiping Song, Yun Zhao, Chunhui Fan, and co‐workers on p. 497. The DNA detection probe is employed to construct a complex for “sandwich”‐based DNA detection, the HRP translates the hybridization event into an enzymatic catalysis‐based optical signal, and BSA serves as a non‐specific blocker.
Cadmium(II)‐Catalyzed CN Cross‐Coupling of Amines with Aryl Iodides
Authors: Rout Laxmidhar , Saha Prasenjit , Jammi Suribabu , Punniyamurthy Tharmalingam
Published: February 2008

Cadmium diacetate dihydrate [Cd(OAc)2⋅2 H2O] in combination with ethylene glycol catalyzes efficiently the CN cross‐coupling of amines with aryl iodides by a benzyne mechanism. Alkyl, aryl and heterocyclic amines are compatible with this system affording the aminated products in high to excellent yield.
Expeditious and Practical Synthesis of Lycopene
Authors: Choi Eunho , Yeo Jung Eun , Koo Sangho
Published: February 2008

Our lycopene synthesis highlights the expeditious assembly of the carbon skeleton by the use of a readily available ten‐carbon unit, geraniol, rather than the original natural five‐carbon building block, isopentenyl pyrophosphate. Furthermore, four oxidation steps by the enzyme desaturases to produce the conjugated carbon‐carbon double bonds of lycopene are merged into one‐pot double elimination reactions in our synthesis. These accomplished the highly efficient synthesis of all‐(E)‐lycopene from geraniol through a seven‐step sequence in 51% overall yield.
Efficient Preparation of the Isoindoline Framework via a Six Component, Tandem Double A3‐Coupling and [2+2+2] Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Bonfield E. Ryan , Li Chao‐Jun
Published: February 2008

The preparation of tetrasubstituted isoindolines from three alkyne units, two aldehyde units and a primary amine via three consecutive reactions, two aldehyde‐amine‐alkyne couplings (A3‐couplings) and a final [2+2+2] cycloaddition, in a single synthetic operation, is described. The A3‐couplings are catalyzed by copper bromide and the cycloaddition is catalyzed by Wilkinson’s catalyst. It was found that many catalysts known to be efficient at the cycloaddition step were not suitable when this step was part of the tandem reaction sequence. Wilkinson’s catalyst was found to be unique in its suitability for the overall domino reaction sequence.
Iron‐Catalyzed CN Cross‐Coupling of Sulfoximines with Aryl Iodides
Authors: Correa Arkaitz , Bolm Carsten
Published: February 2008

An inexpensive and experimentally simple, iron‐catalyzed N‐arylation reaction of NH‐sulfoximines with aryl iodides is reported. This complementary method to the known palladium‐ and copper‐catalyzed ones features the use of a combination of environmentally friendly FeCl3 and N,N′‐dimethylethylenediamine (DMEDA) as catalytic system and allows the efficient preparation of various N‐arylsulfoximines in high yields.
Vinylogous Mannich‐Type Reaction Catalyzed by an Iodine‐Substituted Chiral Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Akiyama Takahiko , Honma Yasuhiro , Itoh Junji , Fuchibe Kohei
Published: February 2008

2‐Trimethylsiloxyfuran underwent a vinylogous Mannich‐type reaction with aldimines under the action of a new chiral phosphoric acid, bearing iodine on the 6,6′‐positions of the binaphthyl group, as a chiral Brønsted acid to give γ‐butenolide derivatives bearing an amino functionality with high diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity.
FTIR and SEM analysis of polyester‐ and epoxy‐based composites manufactured by VARTM process
Authors: Cecen Volkan , Seki Yoldaş , Sarikanat Mehmet , Tavman Ismail H.
Published: February 2008

Polyester‐ and epoxy‐based composites containing glass and carbon fibers were manufactured using a vacuum‐assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) process. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analyses were conducted to determine the interaction between fibers and matrix material. The results indicate that strong interaction was observed between carbon fiber and epoxy resin. However, weak interactions between remaining fiber‐matrix occur. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was also performed to take some information about strength of interaction between fibers and matrix material. From SEM micrographs, it is concluded that the findings in SEM analysis support to that obtained in FTIR analysis. Another aim of the present work was to investigate the influence of matrix on composite properties. Hence, the strengths of composites having same reinforcement but different matrix systems in axial tension and transverse tension were compared. Short beam shear test has been conducted to characterize the interfacial strength in the composites. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Melting bulk reaction between poly(butylene terephthalate) and poly(ethylene glycol)/DL‐oligo(lactic acid)
Authors: Chen Yiwang , Zhu Xiangjun , Tan Licheng , Su Jiying
Published: February 2008

A reactive blend of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and DL‐oligo(lactic acid) (OLA) is obtained at high temperature to produce partial PEG/OLA multiblock copolymer without purification. The reactive blend of PEG and OLA easily reacts with poly(1,4‐butylene terephthalate) (PBT) in the melt leading to the formation of high‐molar mass poly(1,4‐butylene terephthalate‐co‐ethylene oxide‐co‐DL‐lactide) (PBTEOLA) copolymers. The analysis from 1H NMR and solubility test reveals that the transesterification between butylene terephthalate (BT), ethyleneoxide (EO), and lactide (LA) segments during synthesis is unavoidable. The copolyesters are segmented copolyesters with certain random properties, as confirmed by their thermal behavior. The copolyesters show only one melting temperature (Tm) on the second heating run and one crystallization temperature (Tc) on the cooling cycle from differential scanning calorimetry measurement. With increase of OLA feeding composition in PEG/OLA blend or increase of content of PEG/OLA blend, the Tm and Tc of copolyesters decrease, and solubility increases. The conventional size‐exclusion chromatography polystyrene calibration estimates weight‐averaged molecular weight of the copolyester to be as high as 66,600 g/mol. Mechanical tests indicate that the copolyesters exhibit high Young's modulus of 50–100 MPa and good elongation at break of 32–137%. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis, characterization, and stimuli‐sensitive properties of triblock copolymer poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐poly(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)‐b‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)
Authors: Xu Xuewei , Liu Chao , Huang Junlian
Published: February 2008

Well‐defined triblock copolymer poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐poly(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)‐b‐poly(N‐isopropyl‐acrylamide) (PEO‐b‐PDMAEMA‐b‐PNIPAAm) was synthesized via sequential reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT) of 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) and N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) using α‐methoxy‐ω‐S‐1‐dodecyl‐S‐α‐(α,α′‐dimethyl‐α″‐acetate) poly(ethylene oxide) (mPEO‐DDAT) as macro‐RAFT agent, AIBN as initiator in dioxane at 80°C. The polymerization data indicated that the both RAFT processes were well controlled. The molecular weights of macro‐RAFT agents showed the influence on the RAFT polymerization process. The final PEO‐b‐PDMAEMA‐b‐PNIPAAm triblock copolymer can form uniform micelles in aqueous media above the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) due to containing temperature‐sensitive PNIPAAm block. The micelle size and Dh were dependent on the composition of triblock copolymer and the pH value of the solution. The PEO‐b‐PDMAEMA‐b‐PNIPAAm triblock copolymer showed dual temperature‐ and pH‐sensitive property in aqueous media. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Studies on polyethylene oxide and phenolic resin blends
Authors: Ratna Debdatta , Abraham T. N. , Karger‐Kocsis J.
Published: February 2008

Blends of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and novolac type phenolic resin were prepared by a solution cast method using acetonitrile as a solvent. In this work, we have investigated the PEO/phenolic blends having low phenolic content (0 to 30 wt %) with the objective in mind to design a crystallizable component for a shape memory polymer system having adjustable switching temperature. The blends were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, polarized optical microscopy (POM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The rate of crystallization and crystallinity (calculated from heat of crystallization value) decrease with increase in novolac content. FTIR analysis indicates the existence of H‐bonding between hydroxyl groups of novolac and ether groups of PEO. POM studies indicate that size of Maltese cross section decreases with increase in novolac content and in the blends containing higher novolac content less regular leaf like texture was obtained. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Crosslinking of unfilled carboxylated nitrile rubber with different systems: Influence on properties
Authors: Ibarra L. , Rodríguez A. , Mora‐Barrantes I.
Published: February 2008

The presence of two functional groups, nitrile and carboxyl, in carboxylated nitrile rubber allows it to be crosslinked with different agents. In this study, we examined the influence of different crosslinking agents on the properties of unfilled carboxylated nitrile rubber. Significant differences were found when different crosslinking agents were used, as shown in the vulcanization curves, especially in the variation of the viscous component with the reaction time. The reaction rate was highest when organic peroxide was used, and it was lowest when metallic peroxide or copper sulfate was used. When the crosslinking agents led to the formation of ionic bonds (metallic oxide and metallic peroxide), the carboxylic groups COOH had a greater participation in the crosslinking. However, when copper sulfate was used, coordination bonds were formed, and the main contribution was due to the nitrile groups. Tensile strength, tear strength, and abrasion properties were superior when the crosslinking systems used led to the formation of ionic bonds. On the contrary, the compression set was optimum when covalent bonds were formed. Copper sulfate behaved as an intermediate between the two previous situations. The mechanodynamic response of the compounds also depended on the crosslinking agent used. The correlation between crosslink density by swelling in dichloromethane, maximum damping temperature by dynamic measurements, and glass‐transition temperature by differential scanning calorimetry had to be explained in terms of the crosslink type. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Assessing the permissiveness of transcriptional activator binding sites
Authors: Rowe Steven P. , Mapp Anna K.
Published: February 2008

Both genetic and biochemical data suggest that transcriptional activators with little sequence homology nevertheless function through interaction with a shared group of coactivators. Here we show that a series of peptidomimetic transcriptional activation domains interact under cell‐fiee and cellular conditions with the metazoan coactivator CBP despite differences in the positioning and identity of the constituent functional groups. Taken together, these results suggest that a key activator binding site within CBP is permissive, accepting multiple arrangements of hydrophobic functional groups. Further, this permissiveness is also observed with a coactivator from S. cerevisiae. Thus, the design of small molecule mimics of transcriptional activation domains with broad function may be more straightforward than previously envisioned. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 578–581, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Cell (A549)–Particle (Jasada Bhasma) interactions using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Pyrgiotakis G. , Bhowmick T. K. , Finton K. , Suresh A. K. , Kane S. G. , Bellare J. R. , Moudgil B. M.
Published: February 2008

Current methods for the evaluation of cell interactions with particles are nonspecific, slow, and invasive to the cells. Raman spectroscopy is a noninvasive technique, and is used in the present study to investigate particle–cell interactions. The main focus of the present study is to employ Raman spectroscopy for investigating the interaction of human lung adenocarcinoma cell line (A549) with the particulate system Jasada Bhasma, a traditional Indian medicine. Jasada Bhasma is a unique preparation of zinc and is traditionally used for the treatment of various diseases like diabetes, age‐related eye diseases, and as a health promotional tonic. The Raman spectral analysis is executed by identifying the difference in intracellular DNA/RNA, and proteins and lipids concentration between particles—treated and untreated cells. Comparison between Bhasma‐treated and ‐untreated cells indicates that vibrational peaks corresponding to the DNA/RNA molecule show a significant increase in cells treated with the Jasada Bhasma. Apart from the DNA molecule, several other vibrational peaks related to the protein molecules also show a significant increase in A549 cells after treatment with Bhasma. These results indicate that Bhasma treatment of A549 possibly delays DNA degradation and enables retention of higher amount of protein molecules in the cells. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 555–564, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
A Novel Sensor Platform Based on Aptamer‐Conjugated Polypyrrole Nanotubes for Label‐Free Electrochemical Protein Detection
Authors: Yoon Hyeonseok , Kim June‐Hyung , Lee Nahum , Kim Byung‐Gee , Jang Jyongsik
Published: February 2008

We first present a simple yet versatile strategy for the functionalization of polymer nanotubes in a controlled fashion. Carboxylic‐acid‐functionalized polypyrrole (CPPy) nanotubes were fabricated by using cylindrical micelle templates in a water‐in‐oil emulsion system, and the functional carboxyl groups were effectively incorporated into the polymer backbone during the polymerization by using pyrrole‐3‐carboxylic acid (P3CA) as a co‐monomer without a sophisticated functionalization process. It was noteworthy that the chemical functionality of CPPy nanotubes was readily controlled in both qualitative and quantitative aspects. On the basis of the controlled functionality of CPPy nanotubes, a field‐effect transistor (FET) sensor platform was constructed to detect specific biological entities by using a buffer solution as a liquid‐ion gate. The CPPy nanotubes were covalently immobilized onto the microelectrode substrate to make a good electrical contact with the metal electrodes, and thrombin aptamers were bonded to the nanotube surface via covalent linkages as the molecular recognition element. The selective recognition ability of thrombin aptamers combined with the charge transport property of CPPy nanotubes enabled the direct and label‐free electrical detection of thrombin proteins. Upon exposure to thrombin, the CPPy nanotube FET sensors showed a decrease in current flow, which was probably attributed to the dipole–dipole or dipole–charge interaction between thrombin proteins and the aptamer‐conjugated polymer chains. Importantly, the sensor response was tuned by adjusting the chemical functionality of CPPy nanotubes. The efficacy of CPPy nanotube FET sensors was also demonstrated in human blood serum; this suggests that they may be used for practical diagnosis applications after further optimization.
Surviving recurrence: Psychological and quality‐of‐life recovery
Authors: Yang Hae‐Chung , Thornton Lisa M. , Shapiro Charles L. , Andersen Barbara L.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, data characterizing patients' psychosocial experiences after a recurrence diagnosis are limited. This report provides the physical, psychological, and quality‐of‐life trajectories of patients with recurrent breast cancer. In addition, patients with a well–documented trajectory—patients with their initial diagnosis of breast cancer—were included as a referent group, providing a metric against which to gauge the impact and course of cancer recurrence.

METHODS

Patients with a newly diagnosed, recurrent (n = 69) or initial (n = 113) breast cancer were accrued. The groups did not differ with regard to age, race, education, family income, or partner status (all P values > .18). All patients were assessed shortly after diagnosis (baseline) and 4 months, 8 months, and 12 months later. Mixed‐effects models were used to determine health status, stress, mood, and quality‐of‐life trajectories.

RESULTS

In the year after a recurrence diagnosis, patients' physical health and functioning showed no improvement, whereas quality of life and mood generally improved, and stress declined. Compared with patients who were coping with their first diagnosis, patients with recurrence had significantly lower anxiety and confusion. In contrast, physical functioning was poorer among recurrence patients, quality‐of‐life improvement was slower, and cancer‐related distress was high as that of the initially diagnosed patient. Slower quality‐of‐life recovery was most apparent among younger patients (aged <54 years).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the physical burden, patients with recurrent breast cancer exhibit considerable resilience, with steady improvements in psychological adjustment and quality of life during the year after diagnosis. Management of patients' physical symptoms is particularly important, because patients cope with recurrent breast cancer as a chronic illness. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Cellular and subcellular distribution of rat brain prolyl oligopeptidase and its association with specific neuronal neurotransmitters
Authors: Myöhänen Timo T. , Venäläinen Jarkko I. , Garcia‐Horsman J. Arturo , Piltonen Marjo , Männistö Pekka T.
Published: February 2008

Prolyl oligopeptidase (POP) is a serine endopeptidase that hydrolyzes proline‐containing peptides shorter than 30‐mer. It has been suggested that POP is associated with cognitive functions and inositol 1,4,5‐triphosphate (IP3) signaling. However, little is known about the distribution and physiological role of POP in the brain. We used immunohistochemistry to determine the cellular and subcellular distribution of POP in the rat brain. POP was specifically expressed in the glutamatergic pyramidal neurons of the cerebral cortex, particularly in the primary motor and somatosensory cortices, and also in the CA1 field of hippocampus. Purkinje cells of the cerebellum were also intensively immunostained for POP. Double immunofluorescence indicated that POP was present in the γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic and cholinergic interneurons of the thalamus and cortex but not in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. POP did not colocalize with astrocytic markers in any part of the rat brain. We used postembedding immunoelectron microscopy to determine the distribution of POP at the subcellular level. POP was mainly present in neuronal cytosol and membranes, hardly at all in neuronal plasma membrane, but more extensively in intracellular membranes such as the rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Our findings point to a role for POP—evidently modifying neuropeptide levels—in excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the central nervous system via glutamatergic, GABAergic, and cholinergic neurotransmission systems. Furthermore, according to our results, POP may be involved in thalamocortical neurotransmission, memory and learning functions of the hippocampal formation, and GABAergic regulation of voluntary movements. Subcellular distribution of POP points to a role in protein processing and secretion. J. Comp. Neurol. 507:1694–1708, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Calcitonin receptor‐like receptor (CLR), receptor activity‐modifying protein 1 (RAMP1), and calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) immunoreactivity in the rat trigeminovascular system: Differences between peripheral and central CGRP receptor distribution
Authors: Lennerz Jochen K. , Rühle Victor , Ceppa Eugene P. , Neuhuber Winfried L. , Bunnett Nigel W. , Grady Eileen F. , Messlinger Karl
Published: February 2008

CGRP meets its receptor in the rat dura mater. The CGRP receptor protein CLR (green) is expressed in smooth muscle cells (blue, SMA) in the media of meningeal arteries (left) but not in veins (right upper half). CLR is also found in trigeminal nerve bundles and mononuclear cells adjacent to the arteries. CGRP‐receptor components are however not co‐localized with axonal CGRP (red) in the dura, but expressed in Schwann cells (not visible at this magnification). J. Comp. Neurol. 507:1279–1301, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electrosynthesis of Poly(para)phenylene in an Ionic Liquid: Cyclic Voltammetry and in Situ STM/Tunnelling Spectroscopy Studies
Authors: Carstens T. , Zein El Abedin S. , Endres F.
Published: February 2008

The electropolymerization of benzene in the air and water‐stable ionic liquid 1‐hexyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate (HMIm)FAP is investigated. The study comprises cyclic voltammetry, IR and in situ STM/tunnelling spectroscopy measurements. The IR results indicate that poly(para)phenylene is the end product of the electropolymerization of benzene in the employed ionic liquid. The resulting conjugation lengths of the product fall between 19 and 21. A polymer reference electrode is used successfully for the electrochemical polymerization of benzene. The first in situ STM results show that the electropolymerization of benzene in the ionic liquid can be probed on the nanoscale and the band gap of the prepared polymer can be determined. The electrodeposited polymer film obtained at a constant potential of 1.0 V vs PPP (polyparaphenylene) exhibits a band gap of 2.9±0.2 eV.
Viral danger signals control CD1d de novo synthesis and NKT cell activation
Authors: Raftery Martin J. , Winau Florian , Giese Thomas , Kaufmann Stefan H. E. , Schaible Ulrich E. , Schönrich Günther
Published: February 2008

The nonpolymorphic CD1 molecules present lipid antigens to T cells. In myeloid DC humans express five different CD1 proteins (CD1a–e; the corresponding CD1 genes are designated CD1A–E). A role for CD1d‐restricted NKT cells in the control of virus infections has been delineated from clinical observations, mouse models and viral evasion mechanisms targeting CD1d. How NKT cells are activated by virus infections is unclear. We found that human myeloid DC differentially regulate CD1 antigen presentation in response to viral danger signals. Stimulation with type I IFN, viral TLR ligands or viruses strongly enhanced the number of CD1D transcripts in human myeloid DC but diminished the abundance of CD1A, CD1B and CD1E mRNA. These changes on the transcriptional level were mirrored by altered cellular distribution and increased surface expression of CD1d. As a consequence NKT cells were activated and showed a Th1‐like response. Moreover, NKT cell activation in PBMC exposed to viral danger signals was dependent on human plasmacytoid DC which produce large amounts of IFN‐α. In conclusion, our data indicate that viral danger signals trigger NKT cell activation by enhancing CD1d de novo synthesis through increasing the abundance of CD1D mRNA in human myeloid DC.
Phage display‐derived recombinant antibodies with TCR‐like specificity against α‐galactosylceramide and its analogues in complex with human CD1d molecules
Authors: Denkberg Galit , Stronge Victoria S. , Zahavi Efrat , Pittoni Paola , Oren Ravit , Shepherd Dawn , Salio Mariolina , McCarthy Corinna , Illarionov Petr A. , van der Merwe Anton , Besra Gurdyal S. , Dellabona Paolo , Casorati Giulia , Cerundolo Vincenzo , Reiter Yoram
Published: February 2008

The glycolipid α‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer) is a potent activator of invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and has been shown to be an effective agent against cancer, infections and autoimmune diseases. The effectiveness of α‐GalCer and its alkyl chain analogues depends on efficient loading and presentation by the antigen‐presenting molecule CD1d. To monitor the ability of CD1d to present the glycolipids, we have used a phage display strategy to generate recombinant antibodies with T cell receptor‐like (TCRL) specificity against the human CD1d (hCD1d)‐α‐GalCer complex. These Fab fragments were able to detect specifically hCD1d‐α‐GalCer complexes in cell‐free systems such as surface plasmon resonance and ELISA, as well as on the surface of hCD1d+ antigen‐presenting cells (APC) by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy, the latter of which could also detect intracellular complexes. We show that our TCRL antibodies can stain dendritic cells from CD11c‐hCD1d‐transgenic mice administered in vivo with α‐GalCer and its analogues. Furthermore, the antibody was also able to detect the presentation by hCD1d molecules of analogues of α‐GalCer with the same polar head structure. Using this reagent, we were able to confirm directly that the α‐GalCer analogue C20:2 preferentially loads onto cell surface CD1d rapidly without the need for internalization, while the loading of α‐GalCer is improved with longer incubation times on professional APC. This reagent will be essential for assessing the loading and presenting capabilities of hCD1d of α‐GalCer and its analogues.
Vesicle associated membrane protein (VAMP)‐7 and VAMP‐8, but not VAMP‐2 or VAMP‐3, are required for activation‐induced degranulation of mature human mast cells
Authors: Sander Leif E. , Frank Simon P. C. , Bolat Seza , Blank Ulrich , Galli Thierry , Bigalke Hans , Bischoff Stephan C. , Lorentz Axel
Published: February 2008

Mediator release from mast cells (MC) is a crucial step in allergic and non‐allergic inflammatory disorders. However, the final events in response to activation leading to membrane fusion and thereby facilitating degranulation have hitherto not been analyzed in human MC. Soluble N‐ethyl‐maleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNARE) represent a highly conserved family of proteins that have been shown to mediate intracellular membrane fusion events. Here, we show that mature MC isolated from human intestinal tissue express soluble N‐ethylmaleide sensitive factor attachment protein (SNAP)‐23, Syntaxin (STX)‐1B, STX‐2, STX‐3, STX‐4, and STX‐6 but not SNAP‐25. Furthermore, we found that primary human MC express substantial amounts of vesicle associated membrane protein (VAMP)‐3, VAMP‐7 and VAMP‐8 and, in contrast to previous reports about rodent MC, only low levels of VAMP‐2. Furthermore, VAMP‐7 and VAMP‐8 were found to translocate to the plasma membrane and interact with SNAP‐23 and STX‐4 upon activation. Inhibition of SNAP‐23, STX‐4, VAMP‐7 or VAMP‐8, but not VAMP‐2 or VAMP‐3, resulted in a markedly reduced high‐affinity IgE receptor‐mediated histamine release. In summary, our data show that mature human MC express a specific pattern of SNARE and that VAMP‐7 and VAMP‐8, but not VAMP‐2, are required for rapid degranulation.
Dampening Ab responses using proteasome inhibitors following in vivo B cell activation
Authors: Cascio Paolo , Oliva Laura , Cerruti Fulvia , Mariani Elisabetta , Pasqualetto Elena , Cenci Simone , Sitia Roberto
Published: February 2008

Upon encounter with Ag, B lymphocytes undergo terminal differentiation into plasma cells, highly specialized Ab secretors that mediate humoral immune responses. Profound changes adapt cellular morphology and proteome to the new secretory functions. Although a massive secretory activity is expected to require an efficient ubiquitin‐proteasome degradation system, recent in vitro studies have surprisingly revealed that the proteasome function sharply decreases during plasma cell development, thereby limiting the proteolytic capacity. We challenged this paradigm in mouse models of B cell activation, and observed that following polyclonal activation, proteasome activity decreases more than previously reported in vitro. This decrease is linked to enhanced apoptosis after treatment with the potent anti‐myeloma proteasome inhibitor PS‐341. Accordingly, in vivo treatment with PS‐341 decreases Ab titres in T‐dependent and ‐independent mouse immunization models. This study provides the rationale for limiting the activity of Ab‐secreting cells in vivo by impacting proteasome function.
Active immunization with IL‐1 displayed on virus‐like particles protects from autoimmune arthritis
Authors: Spohn Gunther , Keller Iris , Beck Markus , Grest Paula , Jennings Gary T. , Bachmann Martin F.
Published: February 2008

IL‐1 is an important mediator of inflammation and a major cause of tissue damage in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Therapeutic administration of recombinant IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) is efficacious in reducing clinical symptoms of disease, but suffers from several drawbacks, including the need for frequent administrations of large amounts. Here, we show that immunization of mice with either IL‐1α or IL‐1β chemically cross‐linked to virus‐like particles (VLP) of the bacteriophage Qβ elicited a rapid and long‐lasting autoantibody response. The induced Ab efficiently neutralized the binding of the respective IL‐1 molecules to their receptors in vitro and their pro‐inflammatory activities in vivo. In the collagen‐induced arthritis model, both vaccines strongly protected mice from inflammation and degradation of bone and cartilage. Moreover, immunization with either vaccine showed superior efficacy than daily administrations of high amounts of IL‐1Ra. In the T and B cell‐independent collagen Ab transfer model, immunization with the IL‐1β vaccine strongly protected from arthritis, whereas immunization with the IL‐1α vaccine had no effect. Our results suggest that active immunization with IL‐1α, and especially IL‐1β conjugated to Qβ VLP, might become an efficacious and cost‐effective new treatment option for RA and other systemic IL‐1‐dependent inflammatory disorders.