bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo estimation and repeatability of force–length relationship and stiffness of the human achilles tendon using phase contrast MRI
Authors: Shin Dongsuk , Finni Taija , Ahn Sinyeob , Hodgson John A. , Lee Hae‐Dong , Edgerton V. Reggie , Sinha Shantanu
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To devise a method using velocity encoded phase contrast MRI and MR‐compatible dynamometry, for in vivo estimation of elastic properties of the human Achilles tendon and to assess within‐session and day‐to‐day repeatability of this technique.

Materials and Methods

Achilles tendon force and calcaneus‐movement‐adjusted displacement were measured during a submaximal isometric plantarflexion in 4 healthy subjects, four repeated trials each. The measured force‐length (F‐L) relationship was least‐squares fitted to a cubic polynomial. Typical error was calculated for tendon displacement at multiple force levels, stiffness from the “linear region,” and transition point from the displacement point separating the linear and nonlinear parts of the curve.

Results

Displacements of the tendon were determined up to a maximum force of 500N, with mean stiffness of 234 ± 53 N/mm, mean transition point of 2.70 ± 0.23 mm and maximum tendon displacement of 3.38 mm. Variability of tendon displacement was not dependent on the force level. Overall typical errors were 0.09 mm and 0.16 mm for within‐session and between days, respectively. Typical error of transition point was 0.05 mm and 0.14 mm. Stiffness had typical errors of 47.24 N/mm and 51.95 N/mm. The tendon cross‐sectional area and calcaneus displacement were found to be very significant factors in minimizing the individual differences in F‐L curves.

Conclusion

The method yielded F‐L relationships, stiffness, and transition point values that showed good within and day‐to‐day repeatability. The technique compared well with the more conventional one using ultrasonography. Its reliability indicates potential for measuring tendon structural changes after an injury, disease, and altered loading. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:1039–1045. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro investigation of pacemaker lead heating induced by magnetic resonance imaging: Role of implant geometry
Authors: Calcagnini Giovanni , Triventi Michele , Censi Federica , Mattei Eugenio , Bartolini Pietro , Kainz Wolfgang , Bassen Howard I.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of the geometry of implantable pacemakers (PMs) on lead heating induced by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods

In vitro experiments were conducted with two different setups, using fluoroptic probes to measure the temperature increase. The first experiment consisted of a rectangular box filled with a gelled saline and a pacemaker with its leads. This box was exposed in an MRI birdcage coil to a sinusoidal 64‐MHz field with a calibrated whole‐body specific absorption rate (WB‐SAR) of 1 W/kg. The highest SAR and temperature increase (3000 W/kg, 12°C) occurred for the implant configuration having the largest area. The second experimental setup consisted of a human‐shaped torso filled with gelled saline. In this setup the PM and its lead were exposed to a real MRI scanner, using clinical sequences with WB‐SAR up to 2 W/kg.

Results

We found that higher heating occurs for configurations with longer exposed lead lengths and that right chest PMs showed the highest temperature and local SAR (11.9°C, 2345 W/kg), whereas the left chest PMs were less heated (6.3°C, 1362 W/kg). Implant geometry, exposed lead length, and lead area must be considered in the wide variation of temperature increases induced by MRI.

Conclusions

The amount of MRI‐induced lead tip heating depends strongly on implant geometry, particularly the lead area, exposed lead length, and position of the implant in the phantom. Critical lead tip heating was found for the longer leads. Therefore, to minimize MRI‐induced lead tip heating, the PM lead should be as short as possible. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:879–886. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of motion correction effect and image quality with the periodically rotated overlapping parallel lines with enhanced reconstruction (PROPELLER) (BLADE) and parallel imaging acquisition technique in the upper abdomen
Authors: Hirokawa Yuusuke , Isoda Hiroyoshi , Maetani Yoji S. , Arizono Shigeki , Shimada Kotaro , Togashi Kaori
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To evaluate motion correction effect and image quality in the upper abdomen with the periodically rotated overlapping parallel lines with enhanced reconstruction (PROPELLER) (BLADE) and parallel imaging acquisition technique.

Materials and Methods

A total of 50 consecutive patients underwent abdominal MR imaging. Fat‐saturated T2‐weighted turbo spin‐echo sequences were obtained by respiratory triggering. The subjects were examined with three different conditions of echo train length (ETL), blade width, and percent k‐space coverage in the same scanning time: 19/30/100%, 30/30/100%, and 30/52/175%, which were designated as L/C(1), L/C(2), and L/C(3), respectively. The parallel imaging acquisition technique was used to either reduce ETL from 30 to 19 in L/C(1) or increase k‐space coverage from 100% to 175% in L/C(3) compared with L/C(2). Motion and streak artifacts, and overall image quality were evaluated visually by two radiologists, independently.

Results

Motion and streak artifacts were mostly reduced in L/C(3) condition. The L/C(3) image also gave the best overall image quality compared with other conditions (P < 0.001). The inter‐rater reliability for each evaluation agreed well.

Conclusion

In upper abdominal BLADE MRI, it was possible to reduce image artifacts and obtain better image quality by increasing the k‐space coverage with parallel imaging in the same scanning time. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:957–962. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy for monitoring liver steatosis
Authors: Cowin Gary J. , Jonsson Julie R. , Bauer Judith D. , Ash Susan , Ali Azmat , Osland Emma J. , Purdie David M. , Clouston Andrew D. , Powell Elizabeth E. , Galloway Graham J.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To compare noninvasive MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) methods with liver biopsy to quantify liver fat content.

Materials and Methods

Quantification of liver fat was compared by liver biopsy, proton MRS, and MRI using in‐phase/out‐of‐phase (IP/OP) and plus/minus fat saturation (±FS) techniques. The reproducibility of each MR measure was also determined. An additional group of overweight patients with steatosis underwent hepatic MRI and MRS before and after a six‐month weight‐loss program.

Results

A close correlation was demonstrated between histological assessment of steatosis and measurement of intrahepatocellular lipid (IHCL) by MRS (rs = 0.928, P < 0.0001) and MRI (IP/OP rs = 0.942, P < 0.0001; FS rs = 0.935, P < 0.0001). Following weight reduction, four of five patients with >5% weight loss had a decrease in IHCL of ≥50%.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that standard MRI protocols provide a rapid, safe, and quantitative assessment of hepatic steatosis. This is important because MRS is not available on all clinical MRI systems. This will enable noninvasive monitoring of the effects of interventions such as weight loss or pharmacotherapy in patients with fatty liver diseases. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:937–945. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three‐dimensional fast spoiled gradient‐echo dual echo (3D‐FSPGR‐DE) with water reconstruction: Preliminary experience with a novel pulse sequence for gadolinium‐enhanced abdominal MR imaging
Authors: Low Russell N. , Panchal Neeraj , Vu Anthony T. , Knowles Adrian , Estkowski Lloyd , Slavens Zachary , Ma Jingfei
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To compare three‐dimensional fast spoiled gradient‐echo dual‐echo (3D‐FSPGR‐DE) with water reconstruction to conventional 3D‐FSPGR for gadolinium‐enhanced abdominal imaging.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐five patients underwent abdominal MRI on a 1.5T GE‐HDx MR scanner using gadolinium‐enhanced 3D‐FSPGR and 3D‐FSPGR‐DE imaging. Qualitatively, FSPGR‐DE and 3D‐FSPGR images were reviewed side by side for normal anatomic structures, artifacts, and image quality. The images were reviewed separately for abnormalities of abdominal organs. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed. Quantitative analysis measured mean signal intensity of liver, spleen, aorta, liver lesions, and noise.

Results

Observers preferred FSPGR‐DE for evaluating liver, vessels, muscles, and subcutaneous tissues. Fat suppression was superior on FSPGR‐DE in 63 (0.97) and 61 (0.94) of 65 cases for two observers. FSPGR‐DE showed less susceptibility artifact in 47 (0.72) and 41 (0.63) cases, better signal in edge slices in 60 (0.92) and 60 (0.92) cases, less phase artifact in 42 (0.65) and 45 (0.69) cases, and less parallel imaging artifact in 13 (0.20) and 10 (0.15) cases. Images were equivalent for depicting abdominal findings with no difference in the area under the ROC curve. FSPGR‐DE images showed a 20%, 29%, and 34% increase in liver, splenic, and aortic signal, respectively, and a 45% and 62% increase in liver‐lesion contrast and contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), respectively.

Conclusion

Gadolinium‐enhanced 3D‐FSPGR‐DE with water reconstruction provides volumetric abdominal imaging with superior image quality, more homogeneous fat suppression, reduced artifacts, and improved image signal and homogeneity. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:946–956. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Steady‐state free‐precession (SSFP) cine MRI in distinguishing normal and bicuspid aortic valves
Authors: Gleeson Tadhg G. , Mwangi Irene , Horgan Stephen J. , Cradock Andrea , Fitzpatrick Patricia , Murray John G.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To assess the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of double‐oblique true fast imaging with steady‐state precession (SSFP) cine MRI in distinguishing normal and bicuspid aortic valves.

Materials and Methods

Echocardiograms on patients referred for MRI of the heart and thoracic aorta over a four‐year period were reviewed retrospectively. A total of 17 patients with bicuspid aortic valve were identified and compared to 21 randomly chosen control patients. All patients had double‐oblique SSFP (True FISP) cine MRI of the aortic valve independently assessed by two radiologists in a blinded fashion, and graded as bicuspid or normal. Image quality was graded as 1, 2, or 3. Discordance was resolved by consensus.

Results

A total of 38 cases were reviewed (27 men, 11 women; age range = 15–67 years, mean = 25.33 years). Interobserver agreement was 0.97 (36/38 cases). One case of normal tricuspid valve was reported as bicuspid by both readers (false‐positive). All cases in which disparity arose were rated suboptimal by both readers (grade 2 or 3). Consensus review yielded sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 95.2%, positive predictive value = 94.4%, and negative predictive value = 100%; overall diagnostic accuracy was 97.36%. Interobserver agreement was 0.97.

Conclusion

Double‐oblique TrueFISP cine MR imaging of the aortic valve is 100% sensitive and 95% specific in distinguishing normal and bicuspid aortic valves. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:873–878. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Specific absorption rate studies of the parallel transmission of inner‐volume excitations at 7T
Authors: Zelinski Adam C. , Angelone Leonardo M. , Goyal Vivek K. , Bonmassar Giorgio , Adalsteinsson Elfar , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To investigate the behavior of whole‐head and local specific absorption rate (SAR) as a function of trajectory acceleration factor and target excitation pattern due to the parallel transmission (pTX) of spatially tailored excitations at 7T.

Materials and Methods

Finite‐difference time domain (FDTD) simulations in a multitissue head model were used to obtain B1+ and electric field maps of an eight‐channel transmit head array. Local and average SAR produced by 2D‐spiral‐trajectory excitations were examined as a function of trajectory acceleration factor, R, and a variety of target excitation parameters when pTX pulses are designed for constant root‐mean‐square excitation pattern error.

Results

Mean and local SAR grow quadratically with flip angle and more than quadratically with R, but the ratio of local to mean SAR is not monotonic with R. SAR varies greatly with target position, exhibiting different behaviors as a function of target shape and size for small and large R. For example, exciting large regions produces less SAR than exciting small ones for R ≥4, but the opposite trend occurs when R <4. Furthermore, smoother and symmetric patterns produce lower SAR.

Conclusion

Mean and local SAR vary by orders of magnitude depending on acceleration factor and excitation pattern, often exhibiting complex, nonintuitive behavior. To ensure safety compliance, it seems that model‐based validation of individual target patterns and corresponding pTX pulses is necessary. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:1005–1018. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Initial clinical experience with a new MRI vacuum‐assisted breast biopsy device
Authors: Mahoney Mary C.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To report initial clinical experience with a new previously unreported vacuum‐assisted device (EnCor MR, SenoRx, Aliso Viejo, CA) for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided breast biopsy and to compare this device with previously reported technologies.

Materials and Methods

A prospective study of MRI‐guided vacuum‐assisted breast biopsies using the EnCor device was undertaken. Lesions targeted for biopsy were occult on mammography, ultrasound, and physical examination. Histologic results were obtained for all cases. Patients with benign, concordant results underwent clinical and imaging follow‐up. Cases with discordant, high‐risk, or malignant results were referred for surgical biopsy.

Results

A total of 55 biopsies were performed in 47 patients. All biopsies were technically successful. Histologic results yielded malignancy in 10 (10/55, 18%) of the 55 lesions and high‐risk or atypical lesions in 7 (7/55, 13%) of the cases. All of these patients have had surgical follow‐up, with four (4/55, 7%) underestimations. There were three (3/55, 5%) discordant cases. 35 (35/55, 64%) lesions yielded benign concordant results. Of these, six (6/35, 17%) lesions were removed surgically, with confirmation of the MR‐guided biopsy results. Twenty (20/35, 57%) lesions have undergone at least 6‐month follow‐up MRI, with resolution or stability of the MRI findings.

Conclusion

The EnCor breast biopsy device has comparable results to those previously reported for other MRI‐guided vacuum‐assisted technologies. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:900–905. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamic perfusion MRI: Capability for evaluation of disease severity and progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with connective tissue disease
Authors: Ohno Yoshiharu , Koyama Hisanobu , Nogami Munenobu , Takenaka Daisuke , Matsumoto Sumiaki , Onishi Yumiko , Matsumoto Keiko , Murase Kenya , Sugimura Kazuro
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To prospectively evaluate the capability of dynamic perfusion MRI for assessment of disease severity and progression to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in connective tissue disease (CTD) patients.

Materials and Methods

In all, 18 gender‐ and age‐matched CTD patients without and with PAH and nine healthy volunteers underwent dynamic perfusion MRI, Doppler echocardiography, and pulmonary function test. Disease severity of CTD was assessed in terms of diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (%DLCO) and estimated systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP), and progression of PAH in terms of pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). From calculated pulmonary perfusion parameter maps, means of pulmonary blood flow (mPBF), pulmonary blood volume (mPBV), and mean transit time (mMTT) were determined as averages of all region of interest (ROI) measurements. To determine disease severity in CTD, all parameters were statistically correlated with sPAP and %DLCO. To determine progression to PAH, all parameters were statistically correlated with mPAP and PVR.

Results

All pulmonary perfusion parameters correlated significantly with sPAP and %DLCO (P < 0.05). mPBF and mPBV correlated significantly with mPAP and moderately with PVR (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Dynamic perfusion MRI can be used for assessment of disease severity and progression of PAH in CTD patients. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:887–899. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multicenter trial: Comparison of two different formulations and application systems of low‐dose nasal midazolam for routine magnetic resonance imaging of claustrophobic patients
Authors: Tschirch Frank T.C. , Suter Katja , Froehlich Johannes M. , Studler Ueli , Nidecker Andreas , Eckhardt Boris , Beranek‐Chiu Jan , Surber Christian , Weishaupt Dominik
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To prospectively assess and compare two formulations and methods of administration of low‐dose nasal midazolam for the treatment of claustrophobic patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as part of a multicenter Phase III trial.

Materials and Methods

In all, 108 consecutive adult claustrophobic patients were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups (multidose group: MDG, unit‐dose group: UDG). MDG encompassed 55 patients who received intranasally a 0.5% midazolam formulation into each nostril (total dose, 1.0 mg), whereas the 53 patients in UDG received a 1% midazolam formulation into only one nostril (total dose, 1.0 mg). This initial dose could be repeated once. Patient tolerance and anxiety were assessed using a questionnaire and a visual analog scale immediately before and after MRI. Image quality was evaluated using a five‐point scale.

Results

In all, 53/55 MR examinations (96%) with MDG and 52/53 (98%) with UDG were completed successfully. The dose of 1 mg had to be repeated significantly less often in UDG compared to MDG (4/53, 8% vs. 13/55, 24%; P = 0.003). The image quality of all MR examinations was rated good to excellent, and slightly better in UDG (P = 0.045).

Conclusion

Nasally applied low‐dose midazolam is a patient‐friendly solution to facilitate MRI of claustrophobicpatients. The nasal spray of UDG is superior to that of MDG with a necessity of additional dosing. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:866–872. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kidney transplantation: Structural and functional evaluation using MR Nephro‐Urography
Authors: Kalb Bobby , Martin Diego R. , Salman Khalil , Sharma Puneet , Votaw John , Larsen Christian
Published: September 2008

End‐stage‐renal disease (ESRD) is a major health issue in the United States, and the Medicare costs of ESRD totaled nearly $21 billion in 2005. Renal transplantation has emerged as the treatment of choice in this patient population, providing improved quality of life and lower healthcare costs compared with other treatment options. Imaging evaluation of a graft kidney plays a critical role in the postoperative care of the renal transplant patient. In the past, diagnostic evaluation of the transplant kidney has depended upon a combination of ultrasonography, computed tomography, MRI, and biopsy, used in conjunction with the patient's clinical presentation. However, new and developing advances in MR technology has lead to the development of MR Nephro‐Urography (MRNU), which provides both anatomic and functional evaluation of the kidney in a single examination. It is expected that the increasing use of MRNU will have a significant impact on the management of renal transplant patients. This review describes MRNU methodology, examines known posttransplant complications, and highlights the utility of MRNU as a comprehensive imaging examination to diagnose both surgical and medical complications of the transplant kidney. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:805–822. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diurnal variations of precipitation during the warm season over China
Authors: Yin Shuiqing , Chen Deliang , Xie Yun
Published: September 2008

The spatial distribution and seasonal change of diurnal variations of precipitation during the warm season (May–September) over China were analysed using hourly data from 62 rain gauges during 1954–2001. Nocturnal precipitation predominates for the stations over the Tibetan Plateau as well as in south‐west and north‐west China. For stations to the east of about 110°E, daytime precipitation predominates in the northern and southern parts, whereas nocturnal precipitation predominates in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and the North China Plain. Further, the magnitude of diurnal variations first decreases and then increases from the south towards the north. Two stations located close to the Bohai Bay manifest morning maxima. The significant diurnal variations in vertical circulation (stronger during the day and weaker at night), the meso‐local‐scale mountain‐valley winds, and the nighttime cooling of cloud tops could be the processes behind the nocturnal rain in the western part of China (to the west of about 110°E). Daytime precipitation in the eastern part of China (to the east of about 110°E) could be attributed to the moist convection connected with solar heating. The morning peaks for stations in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and the North China Plain and the magnitude changing pattern in the eastern part seem to be connected with the advance and retreat of the East Asian summer monsoon. The morning maxima at coastal stations may be mainly attributed to the local land–sea breeze. The seasonal changes of diurnal variations for the western part of China are relatively small, with nighttime precipitation maxima remaining fairly constant during the warm season. This part is not directly influenced by the monsoon. For most of the stations in the eastern part, morning peaks tend to be strengthened/weakened along with the East Asian monsoon's advancing/retreating. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry: An update for 2003–2004
Authors: Harvey David J.
Published: September 2008

This review is the third update of the original review, published in 1999, on the application of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry to the analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates and brings the topic to the end of 2004. Both fundamental studies and applications are covered. The main topics include methodological developments, matrices, fragmentation of carbohydrates and applications to large polymeric carbohydrates from plants, glycans from glycoproteins and those from various glycolipids. Other topics include the use of MALDI MS to study enzymes related to carbohydrate biosynthesis and degradation, its use in industrial processes, particularly biopharmaceuticals and its use to monitor products of chemical synthesis where glycodendrimers and carbohydrate–protein complexes are highlighted. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 28:273–361, 2009
Clinical and genetic characterization of a large Dutch family with primary focal dystonia
Authors: Contarino Maria Fiorella , Berger‐Plantinga Elles , Foncke Elisabeth M.J. , Ritz Katja , Mellema Jonke , Baas Frank , Speelman Johannes D. , Tijssen Marina A.J.
Published: September 2008

We describe a large family with a primary focal dystonia from a small Dutch village on a former island. Twenty‐four individuals spanning three generations were examined by two movement‐disorder neurologists. Two other movement‐disorder neurologists evaluated the videos independently. Subjects were classified as “affected,” “possibly affected,” or “not affected.” A diagnosis was defined if all the neurologists agreed on the definition. Eight definitely affected and four possibly affected subjects were detected. Clinical presentation consisted of mild cranio‐cervical‐brachial dystonia. Mean age at onset was 45.5 years (range, 39–56). Mean BFMDRS motor score was 4.4 (range, 1–8). Mean TWSTRS score (part I) was 11.3 (range, 8–23). Mutations in DYT1 gene and in the ε‐sarcoglycan (SGCE) genes were not detected. We could not find linkage to the dominant DYT6, DYT7, DYT13, or the recessive DYT16 loci. The identification and accurate clinical evaluation of large dystonia families not linked to known genes is crucial for further advancement in molecular genetic characterization of focal dystonia. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
The relationships among self‐esteem, stress, coping, eating behavior, and depressive mood in adolescents
Authors: Martyn‐Nemeth Pamela , Penckofer Sue , Gulanick Meg , Velsor‐Friedrich Barbara , Bryant Fred B.
Published: September 2008

The prevalence of adolescent overweight is significant, almost 25% in some minorities, and often is associated with depressive symptoms. Psychological and psychosocial factors as well as poor coping skills have been correlated with unhealthy eating and obesity. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships among self‐esteem, stress, social support, and coping; and to test a model of their effects on eating behavior and depressive mood in a sample of 102 high school students (87% minority). Results indicate that (a) stress and low self‐esteem were related to avoidant coping and depressive mood, and that (b) low self‐esteem and avoidant coping were related to unhealthy eating behavior. Results suggest that teaching adolescents skills to reduce stress, build self‐esteem, and use more positive approaches to coping may prevent unhealthy eating and subsequent obesity, and lower risk of depressive symptoms. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:96–109, 2009
Nurse staffing and medication errors: Cross‐sectional or longitudinal relationships?
Authors: Mark Barbara A. , Belyea Michael
Published: September 2008

We used autoregressive latent trajectory (ALT) modeling to examine the relationship between change in nurse staffing and change in medication errors over 6 months in 284 general medical‐surgical nursing units. We also investigated the impact of select hospital and nursing unit characteristics on the baseline level and rate of change in medication errors. We found essentially no support for a nurse staffing–medication error relationship either cross‐sectionally or longitudinally. Few hospital or nursing unit characteristics had significant relationships to either the baseline level or rate of change in medication errors. However, ALT modeling is a promising technique that can promote a deeper understanding of the theoretically complex relationships that may underlie the nurse staffing–medication error relationship. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:18–30, 2009
Morphology and mechanical properties of impact modified polypropylene blends
Authors: Tortorella Nathan , Beatty Charles L.
Published: September 2008

Isotactic polypropylene (PP) has been reactively blended with various grades of an ethylene–octene copolymer (EOC) in a twin‐screw extruder. Free radical polymerization of styrene and a multifunctional acrylate during melt extrusion has resulted in an enhancement of mechanical properties over the binary blend. The reactive blend exhibits a notched Izod impact strength over 12 times that of pure polypropylene and greater than double the performance of the binary blend. Electron microscopy shows that by grafting onto the polymers, elastomer particle size and interparticle distance decrease, while particle shape becomes less spherical. The acrylate is crucial to achieve superior performance, as infrared spectra correlate an increase in graft yield to improvements in stress–strain behavior and impact strength. In addition, melt flow index (MFI) and melt strength data indicate a reduction in unwanted side reactions of polypropylene and the presence of long‐chain branching. Dynamic‐mechanical analysis reveals that the reaction promotes miscibility between polypropylene and the EOC and reduces molecular mobility at their glass‐transition temperatures. Mechanical properties, graft yield, and MFI are shown to be highly dependent upon the elastomer's concentration, density, and molecular weight, initiator and monomer concentration, as well as processing temperature. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2008. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and immunosuppressive activity of new cyclolinopeptide A analogs modified with β‐prolines
Authors: Katarzyńska Joanna , Mazur Adam , Bilska Magdalena , Adamek Edyta , Zimecki Michał , Jankowski Stefan , Zabrocki Janusz
Published: September 2008

Immune response suppressors are used in the medical praxis to prevent graft rejection after organ transplantation and in the therapy of some autoimmune diseases. As a continuation of our previous work searching for new, effective suppressors devoid of toxicity, we present the synthesis, conformational analysis, and biological activity of nonapeptides 1–6, analogs of naturally existing immunomodulatory peptide CLA. New CLA analogs were modified with (S)‐β2‐iso‐proline 7 or (S)‐β3‐homo‐proline 8, respectively. The conformational influence of the β‐iso‐proline and β‐homo‐proline building blocks was analyzed by NMR spectroscopy. Peptides 1–6 exist as a mixture of four isomers due to cis/trans isomerization of the Xxx–Pro peptide bond. The major isomers of peptides 1, 3, and 4 contain all peptide bonds of the trans geometry. The geometry of the proline–proline bond of the second populated isomer of peptides 3 and 4 is cis. The proline–proline peptide bond is cis for the major isomers of peptides 2, 5, and 6. The peptides were tested for their ability to suppress the proliferative response of mouse splenocytes to T‐ and B‐cell mitogens and the secondary humoral immune response to sheep erythrocytes in vitro in parallel with a reference drug—cyclosporine A. The immunoregulatory actions of the peptides depended on the position and content of proline isomers and were, with some exceptions, strongly inhibitory at the highest dose tested (100 µg/ml). In addition, the peptides were practically devoid of toxicity at that dose. In conclusion, the replacement of Pro by β‐Pro may be useful for fine‐tuning CLA immunosuppressive potency and undesirable toxicity. Copyright © 2008 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Cobalt(II)‐containing Metal‐Organic Framework Showing Catalytic Activity in Oxidation Reactions
Authors: Lu Ying , Tonigold Markus , Bredenkötter Björn , Volkmer Dirk , Hitzbleck Julia , Langstein Gerhard
Published: September 2008

A metal‐organic framework (MOF) containing redox active CoII atoms, [CoII(BPB)]·3DMF (1), has been prepared from the solvothermal reaction of CoII nitrate and 1,4‐bis(4′‐pyrazolyl)benzene (H2‐BPB) in dimethylformamide (DMF). Compound 1 constitutes a porous coordination framework that is built up by interconnecting 1D CoII polymer chains with (BPB)2− ligands. The thermal stability of 1 was investigated by thermogravimetric (TG) analysis and variable‐temperature X‐ray powder diffraction (VTXRPD), which indicate that the framework of 1 is stable upon removal of solvent molecules. The argon adsorption isotherm of 1 at 77 K indicates a porous structure with a BET surface area of 1207 m2/g. As a test reaction for catalytic activity of 1, the oxidation of cyclohexene was examined employing tert‐butyl hydroperoxide as oxidant. The maximum substrate conversion achieved after 12 h was 62 % with an estimated turn‐over number (TON) of 44 based on the number of converted substrate molecules (cyclohexene) per CoII atom.
Polyamine and ‐imine Manganese(II) Complexes with Tetra‐, Penta‐ and Hexaselenide Ligands: Coligand and Solvent Influence on the Polyselenide Nuclearity and Coordination Mode
Authors: Kromm Anna , Geldmacher Yvonne , Sheldrick William S.
Published: September 2008

Solvothermal reaction of {(L)Mn}2+ fragments (L = tren, cyclam, tacn, terpy) with Se in the presence of a mineralizer A2CO3 (A = Na, Cs) at 150 °C leads to formation of polyselenide complexes, in which the nuclearity of the $\rm Se^{\2-}_{n}$ (n = 4−6) ligands can depend on the polarity of the reaction medium or the hapticity and binding mode of the coligand L. For instance, whereas methanolothermal treatment of [MnCl2(tren)] with Se affords the 1D polymers $^{1}_{\infty}\rm [Mn_{2}(Se_{4})_{2}(tren)_{2}]$ (1a) and $^{1}_{\infty}\rm [Mn_{2}(Se_{4})(tren)]$ (1b), employment of superheated water as the reaction medium allows the isolation of dinuclear [{Mn(Se6)(tren)}2]. Whereas 1a contains both bridging μ‐1κSe1:2κSe4 and terminal κSe1 tetraselenide ligands, only the former mode is adopted by the $\rm Se^{\2-}_{4}$ ligands in 1b. The analogous reaction of Se with [MnCl2(cyclam)]Cl yields the chelate complex [Mn(Se4)(cyclam)] 2 in superheated methanol and dinuclear [{Mn(Se6)(cyclam)}2] (7) under hydrothermal conditions. 7 exhibits Cs symmetry and contains two μ‐1κSe1:2κSe6 bridging hexaselenide ligands. In contrast to the {(tren)Mn}2+, {(cyclam)Mn}2+ and {(terpy)Mn}2+ fragments, only one product (3) could be isolated for the tridentate fac‐{(tacn)Mn}2+ fragment. Whereas the $\rm Se^{\2-}_{4}$ ligands in dinuclear [{(tacn)Mn}2(μ‐Se4)2] (3) adopt a μ‐1κ2Se1,Se4:2κSe4 mode, κ2Se1,Se4 chelating $\rm Se^{\2-}_{4}$ ligands are observed in the methanolothermal product [Mn(Se4)(terpy)] (4). Hydrothermal reaction of Se with [MnCl2(terpy)] affords the chelate complex [Mn(Se5)(terpy)] (5), in contrast. On blocking five of the six octahedral sites by tacn and en ligands, terminal $\rm Se^{\2-}_{5}$ ligands were obtained in [Mn(Se5)(en)(tacn)] (6), which can be prepared in both superheated methanol and water.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of the Yttrium Containing Isopolytungstate [YW10O36]9−
Authors: Barsukova Maria , Dickman Michael H. , Visser Elena , Sankar Mal Sib , Kortz Ulrich
Published: September 2008

The yttrium containing isopolytungstate [YW10O36]9− (1) has been synthesized and isolated in the form of its hydrated sodium salt Na9[YW10O36]·35H2O (Na‐1). The title compound has been structurally characterized in the solid state by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and in solution by 183W and 89Y NMR spectroscopy. The X‐ray analysis shows that Na‐1 crystallizes in the triclinic system, space group $P{\bar 1}$, with a = 12.7625(9), b = 13.0825(10), c = 20.496(2) Å, α = 82.856(5), β = 74.520(4), γ = 88.822(4)°, V = 3272.1(4) Å3 and Z = 2. Solution 183W NMR shows the expected 2 lines at –1.3 ppm and –14.3 ppm, respectively, with an intensity ratio of 1:4, and 89Y NMR shows a singlet at –12.9 ppm.
Die Kristallstrukturen der Komplexe [Ni(en)3][(DMC)2], [Cu(en)2(DMC)][DMC] und [Zn(en)(DMC)2] (en = Ethylendiamin, DMCH = 1,3‐Dimethylcyanursäure); ein Beitrag zur Konkurrenz anionischer und neutraler Liganden um die Koordinationssphäre zweiwertiger 3d‐Metalle
Authors: Abu‐Salem Qutaiba , Kuhn Norbert , Maichle‐Mößmer Cäclila , Steimann Manfred
Published: September 2008

The Crystal Structures of the Complexes [Ni(en)3][(DMC)2], [Cu(en)2(DMC)][DMC], and Zn(en)(DMC)2 (en = Ethylenediamine, DMCH = 1,3‐Dimethylcyanuric Acid); a Contribution to the Competition of Anionic and Neutral Ligands for the Coordination Sphere of Divalent 3d‐Metals

The complexes [Ni(en)3][(DMC)2] (4), [Cu(en)2(DMC)][DMC] (5), and [Zn(en)(DMC)2] (6) are obtained from the reactions of aqueous (LiDMC)2·4 H2O solutions with NiCl2, CuSO4, and ZnCl2, respectively, in the presence of ethylenediamine (DMCH = 1,3‐dimethylcyanuric acid, 2; en = ethylenediamine). In the solid state, the complexes exhibit both coordinated and uncoordinated DMC anions. The crystal structures of 4, 5, and 6 are discussed.
Hyperbolic Cation Diffusion Paths in α‐RbAg4I5 Type Superionic Conductors
Authors: Chang Jen‐Hui , Zürn Anke , von Schnering Hans Georg
Published: September 2008

The positions of the mobile cations in the superionic conductors of the cubic α‐RbAg4I5 type follow a 3D infinite hyperbolic layer, which is moulded by the symmetry governed Periodic Nodal Surface.
Comparative evaluation of antibacterial soaps
Authors: Jungermann Eric , Brown James , Yackovich Frank , Taber David
Published: September 2008

Two antibacterial soaps and an antibacterial detergent were examined for their effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of a large number of bacteria. All products were markedly superior in this regard to a nonmedicated soap. A soap containing equal parts by weight of hexachlorophene and 3,4,4′‐trichlorocarbanilide was more effective than a detergent containing hexachlorophene only and a soap containing a mixture of equal parts by weight of 3,4′,5‐tribromosalicylanilide, 3,4,4′‐trichlorocarbanilide, and 4,4′‐dichloro‐3‐(trifluoromethyl) carbanilide. A total of 27 bacteria, including 12 pathogens, was used.
Iron ore flotation: Practice, problems, and prospects
Authors: Frommer Donald W.
Published: September 2008

The significant applications of iron ore flotation are reviewed along with an abbreviated discussion on theory and reagent use. Problems or conditions which have militated against a widespread adoption of the flotation process by the iron ore industry, are discussed in contextual relationship to supply, economics, alternatives, and process limitations. Prospects for increased use of secondary flotation are shown to be excellent, but to be less certain for primary flotation.
Du parallélisme au fonctionnalisme contemporain
Authors: Gillot Pascale
Published: September 2008

Cette étude se propose de mettre en relief plusieurs analogies structurelles entre la conception spinoziste et la conception fonctionnaliste, développée par Hilary Putnam, de l'activité mentale. Ces conceptions, l'une classique, l'autre contemporaine, en marge de leurs divergences manifestes, paraissent toutes deux récuser aussi bien le dualisme substantiel qu'une lecture physicaliste de l'activité mentale, représentée en particulier par la théorie de l'identité entre états mentaux et états cérébraux. La confrontation entre la philosophie de Spinoza et celle de Putnam, dans l'ordre de la théorie de l'esprit, s'établit en trois points. Est d'abord examiné le postulat de l'autonomie explicative du mental. Le second point concerne la résolution du problème de l'union du corps et de l'esprit, par le recours aux notions d'organisation et d'isomorphisme fonctionnel, au principe de la thèse d'une identité psychophysique non substantielle. L'étude s'achève sur l'évocation du modèle mécanique de l'esprit, et de son identification à un dispositif automatique abstrait, automate spirituel selon Spinoza, machine de Turing selon Putnam.
Stahl, leibniz, hoffmann et la respiration
Authors: Carvallo Sarah
Published: September 2008

À l'orée du xvme siècle, Wilhelm Gottfried Leibniz et Friedrich Hoffmann critiquent la théorie médicale de Georg Ernst Stahl. Ils trient le vrai du faux. En l'occurrence, ils reprennent à leur compte la définition stahlienne de la respiration en l'extirpant de ses fondements animistes pour la placer dans une épistémologie soumise au principe de raison suffisante et au modèle mécanique. La découverte stahlienne consiste à penser la respiration comme ventilation calorifique à l'encontre de la conception antique ; les iatromécaniciens reconnaissent la justesse de la notion stahlienne, ils essaient alors de la transposer dans un modèle mécanique de la ventilation. Cette reprise dans un contexte épistémologique différent implique une analyse critique de l'idée de découverte« vraie» dans son contenu, mais « fausse» dans ses hypothèses. Elle oblige en outre à interroger l'épistémologie de la connaissance médicale, en tant que science et thérapeutique, et ses liens avec les autres disciplines. En effet, si Leibniz philosophe et Hoffmann médecin prennent au sérieux la théorie animiste de Stahl, c'est que l'importance de ses découvertes met en cause les fondements de la médecine.
Temps, Succession, Cogito
Authors: Pala Alberto
Published: September 2008

Dans les pages qui suivent nous examinons comment Descartes discute la thèse d'une pensée permanente, continue et actuelle représentée par les expressions cogito et sum cogitans. Notre enquête concernera seulement l'argumentation mise en oeuvre pour démontrer cette continuité et cette actualité. En reprenant, dans un premier temps, le raisonnement qui conduit à ces expressions, puis en raisonnant sur chacune d'elles, il nous semble que la continuité de la pensée subit une interruption: aussi bien au moment où l'esprit - libéré des opinions douteuses ou trompeuses, ou encore les ayant laissées de côté - accède aux idées vraies que sous l'effet de la succession des idées. Dans les deux cas, nous avons trouvé une espèce de césure qui aurait dû empêcher le philosophe d'écrire « cogito » ou « sum cogitans », c'est-à-dire une forme verbale indiquant une action actuelle et continue.
L'urne et le pot de chambre
Authors: Hyman John
Published: September 2008

En 1931, Ludwig Wittgenstein a identifié l'architecte et le critique culturel Adolf Loos comme une des dix personnes qui ont exercé la plus grande influence sur son développement intellectuel. Dans cet article est examinée l'influence de Loos sur Wittgenstein, en particulier son importance dans le projet de Wittgenstein pour la maison de sa soeur, ainsi que celle exercée sur les idées concernant la langue et léthique exprimées dans le Tractacus
Induction, probabilités et confirmation chez carnap
Authors: Boukhris Samir
Published: September 2008

L'idée d'associer probabilité et induction n'est pas propre au xx0 siècle, mais elle a reçu un développement systématique lorsque les philosophes néo-positivistes s'en sont emparés. Dès les années 1940, le philosophe Rudolf Carnap s'est proposé de relever le « défi humien »en fondant une théorie de la confirmation par la construction d'une logique probabiliste dite «inductive». Ce projet avait été esquissé à Cambridge dans les années 1920 par l'économiste John M. Keynes. Examiner le programme de Carnap dans sa totalité, le situer dans son contexte historique, suivre son évolution et les influences qu'il a eues, tels sont les buts de cet article.
Quelques repères historiques sur la théorie des jeux
Authors: Schmidt Christian
Published: September 2008

L'article s'attache à dégager le fil rouge qui relie les réflexions de Wilhelm Gottfried Leibniz sur les jeux de société à la théorie des jeux, telle qu'on la trouve dans l'ouvrage de John Von Neumann et Oskar Morgenstern. L'itinéraire décrit passe par les travaux de plusieurs mathématiciens du XVIIIe siècle sur différents jeux de hasard, pour aboutir aux recherches de quelques-uns des fondateurs des mathématiques modernes, comme Ernst Zermelo pour la théorie des ensembles et Émile Borel pour la théorie des probabilités. Il montre comment une analyse mathématique des jeux de société a débouché sur l'élaboration d'une grille générale d'analyse des phénomènes sociaux. Son cheminement révèle, en outre, la longue parenthèse du XIXe siècle où ce programme s'est trouvé abandonné et esquisse, en conclusion, quelques hypothèses pour l'expliquer.
Voyages, mobilités, lumières
Authors: Roche Daniel
Published: September 2008

Depuis longtemps et aujourd'hui encore, les récits de voyage fascinent un vaste public. Il est important de débattre de leur modèle et du modèle de construction intellectuelle et sensible qu'ils ont proposé. Lien prioritaire de l'acculturation des élites européennes, ils ne peuvent être séparés d'une circulation beaucoup plus vaste et qui intéresse toute la société. C'est par rapport aux principes de la morale sociale ancienne que le concept de mobilité permet de prendre en compte l'ensemble des pratiques sociales et de confronter circulation et localisation. Les catégories principales de la culture, espace, temps, sociabilité, contraintes et libertés sociales, tissent alors une manière de comprendre le changement.
La république universelle des francs-maçons entre « cul ture de la mobilité » et basculement national (XVIIIe-XIXe siècle)
Authors: Beaurepaire Pierre-Yves
Published: September 2008

En 1723, la Charte fondatrice de la Grande Loge de Londres donne à l'ordre Maçonnique pour projet de devenir le « centre de l'union et le moyen de nouer une amitié fidèle parmi des hommes qui sans cela seraient restés à perpétuelle distance ». De cette aspiration à relever Babel procèdent les tentatives pour cartographier la République maçonnique, mettre sur pied un réseau de correspondance et une langue véritablement universels - ce dernier chantier menant à l'espéranto. L'ordre Maçonnique a décliné tout au long du XVIIIe siècle cette utopie planétaire sur le mode d'une véritable citoyenneté de la République maçonnique avec son passeport, ses droits et ses devoirs. Puis il a dû répondre aux formidables bouleversements issus de 1789 et de l'éveil des nationalités, en s'orientant vers une conception plus engagée de la République universelle des francs-maçons, sensible aux idées libérales et à lémancipation des peuples, au risque de donner des arguments à ses détracteurs, qui lui reprochent de se rendre coupable d'un crime d'indifférenciation.
Cosmopolitisme et transferts culturels
Authors: Traverso Enzo
Published: September 2008

Durant le XIXe siècle, la montée socio-économique et l'assimilation culturelle des Juifs allemands engendrent deux tendances contradictoires: d'un côté, leur volonté d'intégration dans la nation allemande et, de l'autre, leur cosmopolitisme, lié à leur position, au centre d'un réseau socio-économique et d'un vaste mouvement migratoire de dimension continentale. Les Juifs contribuent ainsi à l'essor d'une idée culturelle de Mitteleuropa opposée à celle, géopolitique et expansionniste, défendue par le pangermanisme. Le cosmopolitisme judéo-allemand se manifeste dans plusieurs domaines: sur le plan religieux, l'école de la « science du judaïsme » (Wissenschaft des Judentums) s'impose comme modèle de modernisation de la culture juive à l'échelle européenne ; sur le plan économique, les Juifs allemands émancipés consolident un réseau financier et commercial transnational dont les origines remontent à l'époque des «Juifs de cour» (Hofjuden); sur le plan politique, ils jouent un rôle majeur dans la diffusion du marxisme comme courant de pensée universaliste, dépassant les frontières nationales. D'une manière plus générale, les Juifs allemands seront le pivot d'un processus de transferts culturels étalé sur plus d'un siècle. Après l'avènement du nazisme, le cosmopolitisme judéo-allemand prendra la voie de l'exil, où il se chargera de sauver l'héritage de l'Aujkliirung.
Le principe de circulation et l'échec de la mythologie transeuropéenne
Authors: Asséo Henriette
Published: September 2008

Nous avons cherché à identifier un aspect du refoulement du cosmopolitismel'des Lumières, complémentaire de la fabrique des identités nationales enl'Europe au XIXe siècle et dans l'entre-deux-guerres. L'idée de civilisation communel'serait maintenue par la capacité réciproque de traduction des langues nationales, dul'fait de leurs origines communes indo-européennes. L'utopie de la langue remplaceraitl'le parcours matériel des Lumières. C'est l'échec de la construction du mythe indianistel'européen et non pas son succès qui explique le dévoiement idéologique des relationsl'entre langue et nation. La promotion manquée de la langue tsigane dans le mondel'académique illustre bien cet échec. Après la Première Guerre mondiale, la transformationl'du principe des nationalités en ethnopolitique fit disparaître jusqu'au souvenirl'de cette ambition commune.