bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auditor Industry Specialization, Auditor Changes, and Accounting Restatements
Authors: Romanus Robin N. , Maher John J. , Fleming Damon M.
Published: December 2008

SYNOPSIS: The increasing occurrence of accounting restatements has drawn considerable attention from regulators, audit firms, and corporate boards concerning audit and financial statement quality. Research suggests that auditor industry specialization is associated with improved error detection and greater financial statement quality. We examine the impact of auditor industry specialization on a sample of restatement and nonrestatement firms and find that auditor industry specialization is negatively associated with the likelihood of accounting restatement. In addition, focusing on the subset of restatement firms, we find that auditor industry specialization reduces the likelihood of issuing restatements affecting core operating accounts, suggesting that industry specialization adds value in auditing a particularly critical area of the firms’ continuing operations. Finally, we find changing from a nonspecialist to a specialist auditor increases the likelihood of restatement, and changing from a specialist to a nonspecialist reduces the likelihood of restatement. Our findings are consistent with industry specialization enhancing auditors’ role in improving the quality of the financial reporting process, particularly related to the core operations of their clients.
The Moderating Effects of Acquisition Premiums in Private Corporations: An Empirical Investigation of Relative S Corporation and C Corporation Valuations
Authors: DiGabriele James A.
Published: December 2008

SYNOPSIS: This paper presents the results of a moderated multiple regression analysis to show that, all else held equal, a positive premium exists in the valuation of S corporations over C corporations from January 2000 to November 2006. The results of the regression show that the magnitude of the “S corporation premium” indeed depends on the level of interactions of several independent variables. In particular, the results of this study reveal that (1) the premium depends positively on net sales; (2) the premium is higher for the cases in which the transaction is done through asset sales (rather than stock sales); and (3) the premium is higher for the cases in which firms are bought by private buyers (rather than public buyers).
What is the Actual Economic Role of Financial Reporting?
Authors: Ball Ray
Published: December 2008

SYNOPSIS: This short essay is based on a presentation at the panel discussion on “Big Unanswered Questions in Accounting” at the 2007 American Accounting Association Annual Meeting. It poses the question: “What is the actual economic role of financial reporting?” and discusses why this question is important, why it is unanswered, and what types of inventive research design are needed to help answer it. Examples are given of the types of questions involved.
Human Capital Challenges Facing the Public Company Auditing Profession
Authors: Carcello Joseph V.
Published: December 2008

SYNOPSIS: This paper addresses human capital (HC) challenges facing the public company auditing profession. In my opinion, the HC challenges facing the profession make it less likely that the profession can effectively serve the interests of the investing public in the future, and I believe that we must consider fundamental changes to our educational model if these challenges are to be adequately addressed.

In the sections below, I consider the quantity and quality of accounting graduates, the quantity and quality of new accounting and auditing faculty, and a potential educational solution to the HC challenges facing the profession. To the extent possible, I cross-reference my identification of HC challenges to the Advisory Committee on the Auditing Profession’s discussion outline (see http://www.treas.gov/offices/domestic-finance/acap/agendas/outline-10-15-07.pdf). I hope that these comments will provide useful input to the Advisory Committee’s deliberations and will promote additional analysis and debate regarding the future of the auditing profession.
Deficiencies in Auditing Related-Party Transactions: Insights from AAERs
Authors: Louwers Timothy J. , Henry Elaine , Reed Brad J. , Gordon Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2008

SUMMARY: After several high-profile frauds involving related-party transactions, regulators have raised questions as to whether current auditing standards remain appropriate. In this study, we examine 43 SEC enforcement actions against auditors related to the examination of related-party transactions. We conclude that the audit failures in these fraud cases were more the result of a lack of auditor professional skepticism and due professional care than any deficiency in current auditing standards. In other words, revised auditing standards would likely not have prevented these auditing failures, raising questions about the need for auditing standard revision for related-party transactions at this time. Despite this finding, we conclude with some suggestions to improve the auditing of related-party transactions, such as including the discussion of related-party transaction abuse during SAS No. 99 mandated fraud awareness “brainstorming” sessions.
Incorporating Forensic Accounting and Litigation Advisory Services Into the Classroom
Authors: Heitger Lester E. , Heitger Dan L.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT: Forensic accounting is a rapidly growing segment of accounting practice, and the demand for forensic accountants far outstrips the current supply (Kellogg 2008). Litigation support and expert witnessing is a major component of the practice of forensic accounting. Virtually all areas of accounting knowledge and expertise are directly applicable to the field of litigation support. Faculty can provide an effective learning environment by carefully fashioning forensic accounting courses, or small portions of other accounting courses, that address the knowledge base and many diverse skills that provide the essential foundation for practicing forensic accounting litigation specialists. The purpose of this paper is to explore the numerous exciting aspects of forensic accounting and to address the unique educational experiences that arise from forensic accounting courses. We start with a brief overview of the litigation environment in the United States. Next, we discuss the nature of litigation support and expert witnessing, including the role-played by forensic accountants in the litigation process. We conclude by addressing the issues involved in designing, developing, and teaching forensic accounting courses.
A simple and efficient synthesis of 3-substituted derivatives of pentane-2,4-dione
Authors: Staniszewski Bartosz , Urbaniak Włodzimierz
Published: December 2008

A novel and efficient method of synthesis of 3-substituted derivatives of pentane-2,4-dione is proposed, wherein cheaper and easily accessible chloro derivatives are conversed into more reactive iodo derivatives. The method is based on the Finkelstein reaction for which the literature suggests highly polar organic solvents as ideal reaction media. In the presented work, the use of industrially used ketones, especially methyl isobutyl ketone, is proposed. The use of MIBK as a solvent additionally allows an azeotropic removal of water from the reaction mixture, enabling the application of moisture sensitive alkylating agents i.e. (3-chloropropyl)trimethoxysilane. The obtained products are isolated through distillation, which does however not allow the separation of C-alkylation products from O-alkylation ones. The products not containing water-sensitive substituents were isolated as copper complexes. The pure product of C-alkylation was obtained by decomposition of the copper complex with a hydrochloric acid solution and extraction of the formed ligand to an organic phase i.e. hexane. The obtained ligand can be further purified by distillation.
Pyrolytic and catalytic conversion of rape oil into aromatic and aliphatic fractions in a fixed bed reactor on Al2O3 and Al2O3/B2O3 catalysts
Authors: Kirszensztejn Piotr , Przekop Robert , Tolińska Agnieszka , Maćkowska Ewa
Published: December 2008

In the, at present, unstable fuel market, much attention is devoted to alternative technologies for fuel production and development of alternative products of the petrochemical industry. One of the prospective sources of fuel and alternative petrochemical products is biomass, and the use of oil plants is one of the possibilities. This paper reports on a possible conversion of rapeseed oil produced in Poland into intermediate hydrocarbon fractions by pyrolysis combined with parallel catalytic conversion. The products were analysed by gas chromatography coupled with a mass detector. The process was performed in a fixed-bed reactor and was monitored by FTIR and 1H NMR. Depending on the catalysts applied, the products contained: water, carbon oxides, hydrogen, aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons accompanied by some amount of C2-C5 hydrocarbons formed during the cracking process.
Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry of Oligonucleotides
Authors: Castleberry Colette M. , Rodicio Lenore P. , Limbach Patrick A.
Published: December 2008

Because of the high molecular weights and thermal lability of biomolecules such as nucleic acids and protein, they can be difficult to analyze by mass spectrometry. Such analyses require a “soft” ionization method that is capable of generating intact molecular ions. In addition, most mass analyzers have a limited upper mass range that is not sufficient for studying these large molecules. ESI‐MS can be used to analyze molecules with a molecular weight that is larger than the mass‐to‐charge ratio limit of the analyzer. This unit describes how ESI allows for analysis of high‐molecular‐weight compounds through the generation of multiply charged ions in the gas phase. It discusses analyzer configurations and solvent selection, and gives protocols for sample preparation. For applications of ESI‐MS, the unit discusses molecular weight determination, sequencing, and analysis of oligonucleotide mixtures by LC‐MS. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 35:10.2.1‐10.2.19. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Isolation of Neuromelanin Granules
Authors: Tribl Florian
Published: December 2008

Neuromelanin granules are pigmented organelles in the human midbrain that give name to a brain area, substantia nigra pars compacta, which macroscopically appears as a dark brown region in the midbrain due to the insoluble pigment neuromelanin. The substantia nigra pars compacta massively degenerates in Parkinson's disease and gives rise to severely disabling movement symptoms. It has been suggested that neuromelanin granules play an important role in the neurodegenerative events in Parkinson's disease: redox‐active iron is bound to neuromelanin and thereby retained within this compartment, but in Parkinson's disease it is thought to be increasingly released into the cytosol, promoting oxidative stress. This unit includes a methodological workflow for the isolation of neuromelanin granules from the human midbrain. This top‐down approach (describes an approach that reduces the complexity of the sample stepwise from the level of tissue to cell, and from cell to organelle) encompasses the organelle isolation by sequential density gradient centrifugation and the assessment of the isolation efficacy by western blotting.Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 41:3.31.1‐3.31.15. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Three‐Dimensional Tissue Models of Normal and Diseased Skin
Authors: Carlson Mark W. , Alt‐Holland Addy , Egles Christophe , Garlick Jonathan A.
Published: December 2008

Over the last decade, the development of in vitro, human, three‐dimensional (3D) tissue models, known as human skin equivalents (HSEs), has furthered understanding of epidermal cell biology and provided novel experimental systems. Signaling pathways that mediate the linkage between growth and differentiation function optimally when cells are spatially organized to display the architectural features seen in vivo, but are uncoupled and lost in two‐dimensional culture systems. HSEs consist of a stratified squamous epithelium grown at an air‐liquid interface on a collagen matrix populated with dermal fibroblasts. These 3D tissues demonstrate in vivo–like epithelial differentiation and morphology, and rates of cell division, similar to those found in human skin. This unit describes fabrication of HSEs, allowing the generation of human tissues that mimic the morphology, differentiation, and growth of human skin, as well as disease processes of cancer and wound re‐epithelialization, providing powerful new tools for the study of diseases in humans. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 41:19.9.1‐19.9.17. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The GenusBacteroides
Authors: Shah Haroun N , Jacinto Rogério C , Ahmod Nadia , Langham Sally , Gharbia Saheer E , Kallow Wibke , Welker Martin
Published: December 2008

The genusBacteroideshas been described over 100 years and comprises a group of small nonmotile, nonsporing, Gram‐negative rods; they are obligate anaerobes and form a major part of the bacterial flora of the human intestinal tract. Poor circumscription of this group has led to the genus accumulating a large and diverse collection of species that only superficially resembles this description but could not be accommodated elsewhere. Based largely on chemotaxonomic and genetic criteria the genus was reclassified (Shah and Collins, 1989) to encompass the type speciesBacteroides fragilisand members of the ‘B. fragilisgroup’. This more restricted definition, spurred on mainly by 16S rRNA (ribosomalribonucleic acid), has encouraged more in‐depth analysis of the colonic flora and a large number of new species have been described. Full genomes of four species have been completed. Such studies are providing a better basis for elucidating the biological role of specific species within the intestinal tract and their involvement in a variety of physiological and cellular processes.
Thermotogales
Authors: Bonch‐Osmolovskaya Elizaveta
Published: December 2008

Members of the order Thermotogales have an outstanding phylogenetic position within the domain Bacteria, based on their 16S rRNA (ribosomal
ribonucleic acid
) genes sequences. Some Thermotogales organisms are hyperthermophiles with the upper temperature limit of growth at 90°C whereas others are extreme or moderate thermophiles. All Thermotogales are obligately anaerobic organotrophs with a fermentative metabolism. Many thermostable enzymes of Thermotogales were characterized and could be used in different fields of biotechnology.
Plant Peroxisomes and Glyoxysomes
Authors: Donaldson Robert Paul , Kwak Yoon , Yanik Tulin , Sharma Vishakha
Published: December 2008

Peroxisomes and glyoxysomes are membrane enclosures containing enzymes that participate in photorespiration in leaves, nitrogen metabolism in root nodules and fat conversions in seeds. Oxidases in these organelles circumvent energy conservation by producing hydrogen peroxide, which is detoxified by catalase in the matrix and ascorbate peroxidase in the membrane. Some hydrogen peroxide may oxidize proteins within the organelles or function as a signalling molecule. Processes in these organelles also produce hormones (jasmonic acid, indole acetic acid). Peroxisomal proteins are brought in from the cytosol by peroxisomal targeting sequences (PTS). The recognition of the PTS and translocation into the organelles are processes conducted by Peroxins. Genomic and proteomic analyses have recently revealed that plant peroxisomes and glyoxysomes can contain over a 100 different protein molecules, many having unknown functions.
Plant Storage Lipids
Authors: Murphy Denis J
Published: December 2008

Plant storage lipids are major sources of human and livestock nutrition, and of a vast range of renewable industrial products from bioplastics to biofuels. Within plants, storage lipids such as triacylglycerols have several additional nonstorage functions in processes ranging from host–pathogen interactions to abiotic stress responses. Improved knowledge of storage lipid metabolism is being used to create new oil crop varieties and to domesticate new species to supply the ever increasing demand for plant oils.
History of the Optical Microscope in Cell Biology and Medicine
Authors: Masters Barry R
Published: December 2008

Advances in our understanding of cell biology are intimately connected with new optical microscopes and specimen preparation techniques. From the seventeenth century onward these technical advances impacted on the fields of cell biology and medicine, and sometimes these advances occurred reciprocally.
Genetic Conflict and Imprinting
Authors: Moore Tom
Published: December 2008

‘Imprinting’ is a mechanism causing differential expression of the parental alleles of certain genes during embryonic and postnatal development in mammals and during seed development in angiosperm plants. Imprinting evolves due to the reduced genetic relatedness of paternal, relative to maternal, alleles at loci influencing maternal investment in the offspring of polygamous females.
Bacteriophage: Therapeutic Uses
Authors: Harper David R , Kutter Elizabeth
Published: December 2008

Bacteriophages are viruses that grow within bacteria, often killing the bacterial host in order to release the next generation of bacteriophages. Since their discovery in 1915, they have been identified as having potential for the control of bacterial disease. Following the widespread appearance of resistance to conventional antibiotics, interest in this area has revived and clinical trials of bacteriophage therapeutics are now under way.
Informed Consent in Operation
Authors: Corrigan Oonagh
Published: December 2008

Informed consent is understood as a crucial aspect in the ethical practice of research involving the use of human subjects. However, evidence based on the experiences and understanding of research participants shows that they generally do not fully comprehend the study information they have been given. Some experience the consent process as abandonment or as a request to comply with the doctor's wishes, while others actively seek out participation or take charge of research to further their own health and welfare interests. While problems surrounding the limits of consent have been addressed by focusing on ways to improve the consent process, misunderstandings are often not due to a lack of information provided or the inability of subjects to comprehend the information, but rather the preexisting beliefs, norms and expectations about the clinical encounter and the trust, hope and faith in medicine of those taking part, influence their understanding.
The Evolution and Ecology of Cooperative Breeding in Vertebrates
Authors: Komdeur Jan , Eikenaar Cas , Brouwer Lyanne , Richardson David S
Published: December 2008

Cooperative breeding – in which some adults forgo independent breeding and remain as subordinates within a group helping to raise the offspring of others – occurs in between 3% and 10% of vertebrates. The structure of such systems varies greatly, from pairs with helpers‐at‐the‐nest to communal breeders, and may include young helpers or post‐reproductive ‘grandparents’. That some individuals spend part, or all, of their lives helping others to reproduce contradicts the concept of ‘selfish’ natural selection and provides an intriguing evolutionary paradox. When and why such apparently altruistic behaviour occurs has, therefore, been the focus of much study. Although constraints and the benefits of group living, may persuade individuals to remain as subordinates, indirect ‘kin’ benefits or direct benefits (such as becoming a breeding helper) appear to favour the subsequent evolution of helping. Cooperative behaviour can have wide‐ranging consequences, not only on the biology of the cooperative species, but also on those species it interacts with.
Sucrose Metabolism
Authors: Lunn John E
Published: December 2008

Sucrose is one of the main products of photosynthesis in plants, and the most common form of carbohydrate transported from source to sink organs. It also functions as a storage reserve, compatible solute and signal metabolite in plants. Sucrose is synthesized via the phosphorylated intermediate sucrose‐6′‐phosphate, by sucrose‐phosphate synthase (SPS) and sucrose‐phosphatase (SPP). In sink organs, sucrose is broken down by invertase or sucrose synthase to provide carbon and energy for growth and accumulation of storage reserves, such as starch, oil and fructans. Sucrose and trehalose are the only common nonreducing disaccharides found in nature, and their metabolism is inextricably linked in plants. Trehalose‐6‐phosphate, the intermediate of trehalose synthesis, is thought to act as a signal of sucrose availability in plant cells, and regulates the partitioning of photoassimilate between sucrose and starch in leaves and the utilization of sucrose in sink organs.

Key concepts

Sucrose is one of the main products of photosynthesis and the most common transport sugar in plants.

Sucrose is a nonreducing disaccharide, and is synthesized in the cytosol via the phosphorylated intermediate, sucrose‐6′‐phosphate.

In leaves, the rate of sucrose synthesis is tightly co‐ordinated with the rates of photosynthetic carbon dioxide fixation and starch synthesis in the chloroplasts.

Sucrose is transported from leaves via the phloem, to provide the rest of the plant with carbon and energy for growth and storage product synthesis.

Sucrose is unloaded from the phloem in sink organs. It can be hydrolyzed by cell wall invertases and imported into the cells as hexose sugars, or taken up intact and metabolized by intracellular invertases or sucrose synthase.

Fructans are soluble polymers of fructose found in about 15% of all flowering plants. Dicotyledonous plants generally make inulin‐type fructans, whereas monocotyledonous plants also make levan, inulin neoseries, levan neoseries and mixed levan (graminan)‐type fructans.

Fructans are synthesized from sucrose via trisaccharide intermediates – 1‐kestose, 6‐kestose or 6G‐kestose – by various fructosyltransferases in the vacuole.

Trehalose is a nonreducing disaccharide found in many bacteria, archaea, invertebrates and fungi, and is often used as a stress protectant, compatible solute, storage reserve or transport sugar.

Trehalose metabolism is ubiquitous in plants, and essential for their normal growth and development, but most flowering plants accumulate only trace amounts of trehalose.

Trehalose‐6‐phosphate, the intermediate of trehalose synthesis, is a signal metabolite that reflects sucrose status in plants, and is involved in regulation of photoassimilate partitioning in leaves and the utilization of sucrose in sink organs.
Sotos Syndrome
Authors: Niikawa Norio , Miyake Noriko , Matsumoto Naomichi
Published: December 2008

Sotos syndrome (OMIM #
117550
) is a childhood overgrowth syndrome with distinctive craniofacial features and mental retardation. Sotos syndrome is caused by haploinsufficiency of the nuclear receptor SET domain containing protein 1 gene (

NSD1

) located at 5q35.2‐q35.3. A wide variety of

NSD1

aberrations have been found: microdeletions, intragenic deletions and missense and truncation mutations. Through in‐depth analyses of microdeletions, low copy repeat (LCR) or

Alu

‐mediated rearrangements were demonstrated to be major mechanisms for

de novo

deletions. Therefore, Sotos syndrome is now considered as a genomic disorder. NSD1 is a protein with histone methyltransferase activity and nuclear receptor‐binding capability, both related to transcriptional controls. As pathophysiology regarding abnormalities of NSD1 protein remains unknown, further functional studies are necessary.

Key concepts

Haploinsufficiency of
NSD1
causes Sotos syndrome.

Sotos syndrome is a genomic disorder.

Microdeletion involving
NSD1
occurs through nonallelic homologous recombination mediated by low copy repeats or
Alu
elements.

NSD1 has specific histone methyltransferase activity.
Molecular Genetics of Familial Mediterranean Fever
Authors: Yepiskoposyan Levon , Harutyunyan Ashot
Published: December 2008

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), an autoinflammatory disease, is very common in populations of Mediterranean ancestry. It is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in theMEFVgene. The gene encodes a protein called pyrin or marenostrin which is involved in inflammatory pathways. From more than 150 mutations discovered in theMEFVgene so far, five (M694V, V726A, M680I, M694I and E148Q) are the most common in classically affected populations (Armenians, Arabs, Jews and Turks). Specific mutations and genotypes were found to be associated with severe or mild clinical forms of FMF, while various genetic and environmental modifying factors alter the phenotype. Some evolutionary aspects of the disease are being intensively studied: the origin of principalMEFVmutations, modification of pyrin's structure and function during phylogenesis, possible selective advantage ofMEFVheterozygotes.

Key concepts

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF,MIM 249100) is an autoinflammatory genetic disease with autosomal recessive mode of inheritance and is frequently encountered in populations of Mediterranean area.

FMF is manifested by periodic attacks of fever and inflammation in the peritoneum, synovium or pleura. Renal amyloidosis is the most serious complication of the disease.

The highest incidence of the disorder is registered in four ethnic groups (Armenians, Arabs, Jews and Turks) that are considered as ‘classically affected populations’.

The illness is caused by mutations in theMEFV(MEditerraneanFeVer) gene, located on chromosome 16 (16p13.3) and is composed of 10 exons.

MEFVencodes a protein named pyrin, or marenostrin, which is involved in innate immune response.

More than 150MEFVmutations have been discovered so far; five mutations (M694V, V726A, M680I and M694I in exon 10 and E148Q in exon 2) are the most frequent in classically affected populations.

Clinical course of FMF depends on theMEFVgenotype and is also under the influence of modifying factors of genetic and environmental nature.

MainMEFVmutations were estimated to have a relatively ancient origin with subsequent spread during migrations and contacts between ancestral populations of the area.

Unusually high incidence ofMEFVmutations in classically affected populations might be explained by the hypothesis of heterozygote advantage (i.e. overdominance), when heterozygote genotype has higher relative fitness than either the homozygote dominant or homozygote recessive genotype.
Molecular Genetics of von Willebrand Disease
Authors: John Bowen Derrick
Published: December 2008

In 1926, Dr Erik von Willebrand first described the autosomal bleeding disorder that we now call von Willebrand disease (VWD). Since then, the protein responsible – eponomously named von Willebrand factor (VWF) – has been identified, the gene encoding the protein has been localized , the gene sequence has been determined and many mutations within the gene that lead to a deficiency or dysfunction of VWF and cause VWD have been characterized. Through the concerted efforts of scientists and clinicians, there is now considerable understanding of the molecular genetics of VWD and, through studies done bothin vitroandin vivo, the mechanism of disease has been revealed for many of the characterized gene defects. Despite the complexities of both the VWF protein and its gene, we have a detailed picture of the molecular genetics of VWD. This review aims to provide an informative summary of current knowledge.

Key concepts

von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a polymeric (multimeric) blood protein that is essential for the initial stages of blood clot formation.

VWF has several biological activities that are important for its role in haemostasis, including binding to platelet glycoprotein Ib, coagulation factor VIII, collagen.

VWF has a complex biochemistry that is influenced by independent modifiers such as ABO blood group and the metalloprotease ADAMTS13.

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is classified into three types according to the quantity and functional activity of VWF: type 1, type 2 and type 3. Type 2 VWD is further subdivided according the functional defect present: type 2A, 2B, 2M and 2N.

The genetic basis for VWD is highly heterogeneous; the disease shows dominant inheritance for some mutations and recessive inheritance for others.

Mutations that cause milder forms of the disease show variable penetrance and this, in part relates to other modifying factors such as ABO blood group and possibly ADAMTS13.

The relationship between cause and effect is understood for some mutations but not for all.
Modulation of Diabetes‐Induced Palate Defects by Maternal Immune Stimulation
Authors: Hrubec Terry C. , Toops Kimberly A. , Holladay Steven D.
Published: December 2008

Maternal diabetes can induce a number of developmental abnormalities in both laboratory animals and humans, including deformities of the face and palate. The incidence of birth defects in newborns of women with diabetes is approximately 3 to 5 times higher than among nondiabetics. In mice, nonspecific activation of the maternal immune system can reduce fetal abnormalities caused by various etiologies including hyperglycemia. This study was conducted to determine whether nonspecific maternal immune stimulation could reduce diabetes‐induced palate defects and orofacial clefts. Female ICR mice were immune stimulated before induction of hyperglycemia with Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA), granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), or interferon‐γ (IFNγ). Streptozocin was used to induce hyperglycemia (26–35 mmol blood glucose) in females before breeding. Fetuses from 12 to 18 litters per treatment group were collected on Day 17 of gestation. Palate width and length were measured, and the incidence of orofacial clefts was determined. Palate length and width were both decreased by maternal hyperglycemia. Maternal immune stimulation with GM‐CSF or FCA limited the degree of palate shortening from the hyperglycemia. Each of the three immune stimulants attenuated significant narrowing of the palate. Rates of orofacial clefts were not significantly different between treatment groups. Palatogenesis is a complex process driven by cellular signals, which regulate cell growth and apoptosis. Dysregulation of cellular signals by maternal hyperglycemia can result in fetal malformations. Maternal immune stimulation may prevent dysregulation of these signaling pathways thus reducing fetal malformations and normalizing palate growth. Anat Rec 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Aquaporin‐4 Overexpression in Rat ALS Model
Authors: Nicaise Charles , Soyfoo Muhammad Shahnawaz , Authelet Michèle , De Decker Robert , Bataveljic Danijela , Delporte Christine , Pochet Roland
Published: December 2008

Onset of motoneuron death characterizing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is closely linked to modified astrocytic and glial environments. Here, we show that in the spinal cord from transgenic rat overexpressing mutated human SOD1, aquaporin‐4 mRNA and protein are specifically overexpressed in the gray matter at end stage of disease. Immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence allowed to detect, in the spinal cord gray matter of the ALS rat, increased aquaporin‐4 surrounding both vessel and motoneuron perikarya. The use of pre‐embedding immunohistochemistry at electron microscopic level confirmed such localization associated with swollen astrocytic processes surrounding the vessels. The AQP4 immunohistochemical labeling surrounding several motoneuron perikarya was only seen in ALS rats. Identification of this AQP4‐positive cellular type remains unclear. Anat Rec 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Einfluss der Lufttemperatur auf die Verstimmung von Orgelpfeifen
Authors: Pitsch Stephan , Sedlbauer Klaus , Angster Judit
Published: December 2008

Bei vielen Kirchenorgeln machen sich im Winter Verstimmungen im Orgelklang bemerkbar. Vor Spielbeginn wird die Kirche in relativ kurzer Zeit aufgeheizt. Zum einen entstehen dadurch innerhalb des Orgelgehäuses verschiedene Temperaturzonen, zum anderen werden die sich in bereits erwärmter Umgebung befindenden Orgelpfeifen mit Luft aus dem noch kalten Windsystem gespeist. Um den Einfluss des Einblasens von kalter Luft in eine Orgelpfeife auf deren Verstimmung zu untersuchen, wurde im Labor des Fraunhofer‐Instituts für Bauphysik eine Modellorgel in einer zweiteiligen Klimakammer aufgebaut. Dabei befanden sich Gebläse und Balg im kalten Teil der Klimakammer, die Windlade stand dagegen im warmen Bereich. Der zeitliche Temperaturverlauf an verschiedenen Punkten im Pfeifenresonator und der Pfeifenklang wurden parallel gemessen und die nderung der Grundfrequenz der Pfeife ermittelt. Um einen Eindruck der Temperaturzustände im gesamten Windsystem zu bekommen, wurden an mehreren Stellen Temperatursensoren verteilt und ebenfalls der lokale Temperaturverlauf aufgezeichnet. Diese Untersuchungen sind Teil eines Projektes zur Entwicklung von Klimasystemen für eine gleichmäßigere Temperierung der Umgebungsluft in Orgelgehäusen und der Luft innerhalb des Windsystems. Damit sollen klangliche Verstimmungen vermieden und gleichzeitig der Schimmelbildung vorgebeugt werden.
Characterization of the Posttranscriptional Modifications in Legionella pneumophila Small‐Subunit Ribosomal RNA
Authors: Emmerechts Gert , Maes Liesbeth , Herdewijn Piet , Anné Jozef , Rozenski Jef
Published: December 2008

It is generally accepted that posttranscriptional modifications in RNA play a role in the fine‐tuning of RNA function and the maintenance of RNA structure. This article describes the characterization of the posttranscriptional modifications in Legionella pneumophila 16S rRNA by mass spectrometry and reverse transcriptase assays. Eight modified nucleotides were identified and mapped in the 16S rRNA sequence. Situation of these data in relation to general 16S rRNA modification patterns shows that L. pneumophila is relatively less modified, and that the majority of the L. pneumophila 16S rRNA modifications are conserved among the bacteria characterized so far (Escherichia coli, Clostridium acetobutylicum, Thermus thermophilus, and Thermotoga maritima).
Exploring the Structural Complexities of Metal–Metalloid Nanoparticles: The Case of Ni⋅B as Catalyst
Authors: Geng Junfeng , Jefferson David A. , Johnson Brian F. G.
Published: December 2008

Understanding of the structural complexities of metal–metalloid nanoparticles is at the heart of several proposals for investigating the physical properties and practical applications of these bi‐elemental nanomaterials. To date, the most widely studied metal–metalloid is the nickel–boron (Ni⋅B) system; however, the exact nature of the structure of the material itself has remained unclear. Herein we show our systematic investigations of the material in an attempt to reveal its fascinating nanostructure. The relation between its high catalytic activity and the ultrafine structure is explored, and the work has been further extended to the formation of colloidal Ni⋅B nanoparticles. The results presented in this work may represent a substantial progress toward a full understanding of the nickel–boron chemistry.
Phase Behavior in Blends of Ethylene Oxide–Propylene Oxide Copolymer and Poly(ether sulfone) Studied by Modulated‐Temperature DSC and NMR Relaxometry
Authors: Van Lokeren Luk , Gotzen Nicolaas‐Alexander , Pieters Ronny , Van Assche Guy , Biesemans Monique , Willem Rudolph , Van Mele Bruno
Published: December 2008

The state diagram of a blend consisting of a copolymer containing ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, P(EO‐ran‐PO), and poly(ether sulfone), PES, is constructed by using modulated‐temperature differential scanning calorimetry (MTDSC),T2NMR relaxometry, and light scattering. The apparent heat capacity signal in MTDSC is used for the characterization of polymer miscibility and morphology development.T2NMR relaxometry is used to detect the onset of phase separation, which is in good agreement with the onset of phase separation in the apparent heat capacity from MTDSC and the cloud‐point temperature as determined from light scattering. The coexistence curve can be constructed fromT2values at various temperatures by using a few blends with well‐chosen compositions. TheseT2values also allow the detection of the boundary between the demixing zones with and without interference of partial vitrification and are in good agreement with stepwise quasi‐isothermal MTDSC heat capacity measurements. Important interphases are detected in the heterogeneous P(EO‐ran‐PO)/PES blends.
Zinc Oxide Thin Films Grown by Aerosol Assisted CVD
Authors: Waugh Mathew R. , Hyett Geoffrey , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: December 2008

Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films are deposited at 400–650 °C onto glass substrates by aerosol assisted (AA)CVD of a zinc acetate [Zn(C2H3O2)2] solution in methanol. The thin films show high transparency over the visible and infrared regions (80–95%) and a 001 (c‐axis) preferred orientation. The surface morphology and crystallographic orientation are dependent on the substrate temperature. The photocatalytic activity of the films is determined using the destruction of stearic acid (SA) by UV irradiation. The rate is monitored via infrared spectroscopy (IRS) and shows appreciable activity, close to that seen for anatase titania, in the films deposited at 650 °C. Water droplet contact angles on both ambient and UV‐irradiated ZnO surfaces are determined, and there is seen to be an increase in photoinduced hydrophillicity for all films, with a reduction in contact angle of around 50 °.
Formal Synthesis of Natural 1,3‐Polyol/α‐Pyrone Diastereoisomers
Authors: Sabitha Gowravaram , Gopal Peddabuddi , Yadav Jhillu S.
Published: December 2008

A stereoselective formal synthesis of diastereoisomers of 1,3‐polyol/α‐pyrone antifungal natural products isolated from Ravensara anisata has been achieved involving epoxide opening and asymmetric allylation as key steps.
Limonoids from the Twigs and Leaves of Chukrasia tabularis
Authors: Zhang Chuan‐Rui , Yang Sheng‐Ping , Chen Xue‐Qin , Wu Yan , Zhen Xue‐Chu , Yue Jian‐Min
Published: December 2008

Seven new limonoids, tabularisins J–P (1–7, resp.), together with eight known compounds, were isolated from the twigs and leaves of Chukrasia tabularis. Their structures were determined primarily by spectroscopic methods. The potassium channel blocking activities of some of these isolates were evaluated, and a few of them exerted significant activities on the delayed rectifier (IK) K+ current.
A New Synthesis of Ciliapterin and Dictyopterin. Ene Reactions of (Alkenylamino)‐nitroso‐pyrimidines
Authors: Zhang Fang‐Li , Vasella Andrea
Published: December 2008

A comparison of the reactivity of (acylamino)‐nitroso‐pyrimidines 1 and the alkenylamino analogue 17 in intramolecular ene reactions showed the considerably lower reactivity of 17, leading to the pteridine 18. Pteridin‐7‐one 11 resulting from 1 (R1=OBn, R2=Me) was transformed into 4‐(benzyloxy)‐6‐[(E)‐prop‐1‐enyl]pteridin‐2‐amine (13) by O‐triflation, followed by reduction with LiBHEt3, while the 4‐MeO analogue 18 was prepared by spontaneous oxidation of the initial ene product of 17. The (alkenylamino)‐nitroso‐pyrimidine 17 was synthesized by substitution of the dimethoxy‐nitroso‐pyrimidine 16 with the allylamine 15. Ciliapterin (5) and dictyopterin (7) were synthesized from pteridine 18 by a Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation.
Functional PLGA Scaffolds for Chondrogenesis of Bone‐Marrow‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Park Kwideok , Cho Kyoung‐Jin , Kim Jae‐Jin , Kim Ik‐Hwan , Han Dong Keun
Published: December 2008

Two chondrogenic factors, Dex and TGF‐β1, were incorporated into PLGA scaffolds and their chondrogenic potential was evaluated. The Dex‐loaded PLGA scaffold was grafted with AA and heparin, the heparin‐immobilized one was then reacted with TGF‐β1, yielding a PLGA/Dex‐TGF (PLGA/D/T) scaffold. The scaffolds were seeded with rabbit MSCs and cultured for 4 weeks. The results show that the scaffolds including chondrogenic factors strongly upregulated the expression of cartilage‐specific genes and clearly displayed type‐II collagen immunofluorescence. The functionalized PLGA scaffolds could provide an appropriate niche for chondrogenic differentiation of MSC without a constant medium supply of Dex and TGF‐β1.

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The effect of heat treatment on the corrosion behaviour of 319 aluminium alloy
Authors: Panagopoulos C. N. , Georgiou E. P. , Giannakopoulos K. I.
Published: December 2008

The effect of various heat treatments on the corrosion behaviour of 319 T1 cast aluminium alloy was investigated. From this alloy, specimens were heat treated in T5, T6 and two steps solution heat treatment T6 conditions and afterwards were subjected to electrochemical corrosion in a 0.1 M NaCl solution (pH = 12). From the above treatments, T5 heat treatment did not improve the corrosion resistance of the as‐received alloy in contrast to T6 heat treatment which improved the corrosion resistance of the same alloy. However, two steps solutionizing T6 treatment showed the best corrosion resistance of the aluminium alloy.
Composite cerium oxide/titanium oxide thin films for corrosion protection of AZ91D magnesium alloy via sol–gel process
Authors: Fan J. M. , Li Q. , Kang W. , Zhang S. Y. , Chen B.
Published: December 2008

Anti‐corrosive composite cerium oxide/titanium oxide (CeO2/TiO2) thin films were successfully prepared on an AZ91D magnesium alloy substrate by applying cerium oxide (CeO2) thin films as the inner layer with a sol–gel process. Composition and surface morphology of the thin films were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). XRD showed that the composite films consisted of cerianite and anatase phases. The wettability of the thin films was evaluated by water contact angles measurements. Potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests were used to evaluate the corrosion behavior of the bare substrate and coated samples in 3.5 wt% sodium chloride solution (3.5 wt% NaCl). The results demonstrated that titanium oxide (TiO2) thin film mainly dominated the corrosion resistance of samples and the composite films with excellent hydrophilicity could significantly improve the corrosion resistance of AZ91D magnesium alloy.
Polymer‐Solvent Interactions in Solutions of Thermoresponsive Polymers Studied by NMR and IR Spectroscopy
Authors: Spěváček Jiří , Starovoytova Larisa , Hanyková Lenka , Kouřilová Hana
Published: December 2008

Summary: NMR relaxation and diffusion coefficient measurements revealed that a portion of water molecules is bound in mesoglobules formed in poly(N‐isopropylmethacrylamide) (PIPMAm) and poly(vinyl methyl ether) (PVME) aqueous solutions above the LCST, with fast exchange between bound and free states (residence time ∼1 ms). Two types of bound water molecules were assigned to water bound inside mesoglobules and on their surface. For highly concentrated PVME/D2O solutions (c ≥ 20 wt%) a slow exchange was detected by NMR for bound water (residence time = 2.1 s). For PIPMAm aqueous solution IR spectra indicate a two‐steps character of the phase transition. For PIPMAm in D2O/ethanol (EtOH) mixtures the globular structures were observed by NMR at 298 K for certain compositions of the mixed solvent (cononsolvency effect). Virtually no EtOH is bound in these globular structures, in contrast to the temperature‐induced globular structures.
Swelling of Acrylic Interpenetrating Polymer Networks in Liquid Crystals
Authors: Boudraa Kamel , Bouchaour Tewfik , Maschke Ulrich
Published: December 2008

Summary: The swelling properties of acrylate based polymer networks in anisotropic solvents (LCs) are examined. Two Interpenetrating Polymer Networks (IPNs) consisting of crosslinked poly(ethyl hexyl‐acrylate) (PolyEHA) and poly(n butyl‐acrylate) (PolyABu) are investigated. The samples are prepared by sequential UV‐curing of the monomers in the presence of a cross‐linking agent and a photo‐initiator. Microscopy observations are used to measure the diameter of the samples in the dry and swollen states and to deduce the kinetics of polymer‐solvent swelling for different systems. The theoretical calculations based on the Fick model are presented.
Stabilisation of the Secondary Structure of Chitosan Gels during the Preparation of Composites
Authors: Djelad A. , Morsli A. , Robitzer M. , Bengueddach A. , Di Renzo F. , Quignard F.
Published: December 2008

Summary: Zeolite‐chitosan composites have been prepared by encapsulation of zeolites by a gelling solution of chitosan or by in‐situ synthesis of zeolites inside a chitosan gel. The preparation of the composite implies modifications of both components. Zeolites are dealuminated by the acid solution in which chitosan is dissolved and the morphology of the chitosan fibrils is stabilized by iniorganic species issued from the dealumination of the zeolites or from their synthesis medium. Zeolite‐bearing chitosan xerogels present surface area and porosity similar to the textural properties of chitosan aerogels.
A Sonogel/L‐Cystein and a SAM L‐Cystein Modified Electrodes for Detection of Dopamine
Authors: Bouhouti H. El , Rodriguez I. Naranjo , de Cisneros J.L. Hidalgo Hidalgo , Temsamani K. R. , Choukairi M. , Bouchta D.
Published: December 2008

Summary: The Sonogel‐Carbon electrode is a special class of sol‐gel electrode that exhibits favourable mechanics and electric properties that can be used as electrochemical sensors. In this study, a Sonogel‐Carbon modified with L‐Cysteine was used to prepare a novel electrochemical sensor. The objective of this new electrode modification was to seek new electrochemical performances for thedetection of dopamine (DA). The influence of natural interferents such as Ascorbic Acid (AA) and Uric Acid (UA) was explored. The concentration of theses strong interferent was increased to a certain level in order to determine to what extends AA and UA may disturb the neurotransmitters electroanalysis. Our work showed that the modified electrode offers interesting analytical performances such as:

(a) Fast and linear responses towards the neurotransmitter dopamine: The differential pulse voltammetry current peak was linear with the DA concentration in the range 2 · 10−7 M to 10−5 M with a detection limit of 4 · 10−8 M (S/N = 3).

(b) Simultaneous detection and well‐resolved signals between the DA, AA and UA: The new sensor could sensitively and separately determine DA in the presence of 1000 and 900 times higher concentrations of AA and UA respectively.

Optimization of parameters such as the amount of L‐cysteine in the Sonogel‐Carbon mixture, interference effect, perm‐selectivity and mechanical stability of the sensor are discussed. A comparison with a SAM L‐Cysteine/gold electrode was also made.

On the other hand the new Sonogel modified electrode has been applied to the determination of dopamine in urine samples with satisfactory results.

With good selectivity and sensitivity, the proposed sensor is a simple tool for the selective detection of DA, AA and UA in biological samples.
Influence of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction Temperature on the Crystalline Structure and the Morphology of Syndiotactic Polystyrene Aerogels
Authors: Daniel Christophe , Giudice Simona , Guerra Gaetano
Published: December 2008

Summary: In this manuscript the influence of supercritical carbon dioxide extraction temperature on the morphology, the porosity, and the crystalline structure of syndiotactic polystyrene aerogels is investigated. Results show that depending on the extraction temperature, δ‐form, γ‐form, and β‐form high porosity aerogels characterized by a fibrillar morphology can be obtained.
1H and 13C NMR assignments for two new steroids from the coral Chromonephthea sp.
Authors: Geng Hua‐Wei , Liao Xiao‐Jian , Xu Shi‐Hai
Published: December 2008

Two new steroids isolated from EtOH extracts of the South China Sea soft coral Chromonephthea sp. were identified. One‐dimensional (1D) and two‐dimensional (2D) NMR experiments including COSY, HSQC, HMBC and NOESY were used for the determination of their structure. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.