bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Synthesis of Calixarene‐Based Bis‐alkynyl‐Bridged Dinuclear AuI Isonitrile Complexes as Luminescent Ion Probes by the Modulation of Au⋅⋅⋅Au Interactions
Authors: He Xiaoming , Lam Wai Han , Zhu Nianyong , Yam Vivian Wing‐Wah
Published: July 2009

Two calixarene‐based bis‐alkynyl‐bridged AuI isonitrile complexes with two different crown ether pendants, [{calix[4]arene‐(OCH2CONH‐C6H4C≡C)2}{Au(CNR)}2] (R=benzo[15]crown‐5 (1); R=benzo[18]crown‐6 (2)), together with their related crown‐free analogue 3 (R=C6H3(OMe)2‐3,4) and a mononuclear gold(I) complex 4 with benzo[15]crown‐5 pendant, have been designed and synthesized, and their photophysical properties have been studied. The X‐ray structure of the ligand, calix[4]arene‐(OCH2CONH‐C6H4CCH)2 has been determined. The cation‐binding properties of these complexes with various metal ions have been studied using UV/Vis, emission, 1H NMR, and ESI‐MS techniques, and DFT calculations. A new low‐energy emission band associated with Au⋅⋅⋅Au interaction could be switched on upon formation of the metal ion‐bound adduct in a sandwich fashion.
Aura of Corroles
Authors: Aviv‐Harel Iris , Gross Zeev
Published: July 2009

Corroles display distinctive structural, spectroscopic, and photophysical properties, as well as some exceptional chemical reactivities that are not shared by other molecules. In addition, low‐valent metal complexes are extremely reactive when chelated by corroles and the opposite holds for the high‐valent counterparts. One aim of this account is to provide a thorough understanding of the underlying principles that govern these phenomena, while the other goal is to demonstrate how these features may be used advantageously for utilization of corroles and their corresponding metal complexes in applications for which they could display superior performances. The main examples that are emphasized regarding the above respect are catalysis, imaging, and aspects relevant to drug development.
Brønsted Acid Mediated Novel Rearrangements of Diarylvinylidenecyclopropanes and Mechanistic Investigations Based on DFT Calculations
Authors: Li Wei , Shi Min , Li Yuxue
Published: July 2009

Diarylvinylidenecyclopropanes undergo a novel rearrangement in the presence of the Brønsted acid Tf2NH (Tf: trifluoromethanesulfonyl) to give the corresponding naphthalene derivatives in good to high yields upon heating, whereas in the presence of the Brønsted acid toluene‐4‐sulfonic acid (p‐TSA), the corresponding triene derivatives are afforded in moderate to good yields under mild conditions. Corresponding mechanistic studies on the basis of density functional theory (DFT) with the Gaussian03 program by using the B3LYP method have revealed that the pKa value of the Brønsted acid, as well as the entropy and solvent effects, plays a significant role in this reaction; these factors can discriminate the differences in the reactivity and regioselectivity among the Brønsted acids used in this reaction. In the presence of Lewis acid Sn(OTf)2, a butatrienecyclopane can produce the corresponding ring‐opened products in moderate yields.
ChemInform Abstract: A Catalytic Asymmetric Allylation of Aldehydes with Allyl Trichlorosilane Activated by a Chiral Tetradentate Bis‐sulfoxide.
Authors: Massa Antonio , Acocella Maria Rosaria , De Sio Vincenzo , Villano Rosaria , Scettri Arrigo
Published: July 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Imidazolylsulfonates: Electrophilic Partners in Cross‐Coupling Reactions.
Authors: Albaneze‐Walker Jennifer , Raju Ravinder , Vance Jennifer A. , Goodman Andrew J. , Reeder Michael R. , Liao Jing , Maust Mathew T. , Irish Patrick A. , Espino Peter , Andrews David R.
Published: July 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Amine Functionalized Oxazolines with Applications in Asymmetric Catalysis.
Authors: Miller Jeremie J. , Rajaram Sridhar , Pfaffenroth Cornelia , Sigman Matthew S.
Published: July 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Synthesis of Novel 2‐Amino‐4‐aryl‐6‐ferrocenyl Pyrimidines.
Authors: Rashinkar G. S. , Pore S. B. , Mote K. B. , Salunkhe R. S.
Published: July 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Xylarinols A and B, Two New 2‐Benzoxepin Derivatives from the Fruiting Bodies of Xylaria polymorpha.
Authors: Lee In‐Kyoung , Jang Yun‐Woo , Kim Young‐Sook , Yu Seung Hun , Lee Kui Jae , Park Seung‐Moon , Oh Byung‐Taek , Chae Jong‐Chan , Yun Bong‐Sik
Published: July 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Chemical Structural and Chain Conformational Characterization of Some Bioactive Polysaccharides Isolated from Natural Sources
Authors: Yang Liqun , Zhang Li‐Ming
Published: July 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Self‐Assembly of ZnO Nanocrystals in Colloidal Solutions
Authors: Pagès Carole , Coppel Yannick , Kahn Myrtil L. , Maisonnat André , Chaudret Bruno
Published: July 2009

The self‐organization in solution of ZnO nanocrystals into superlattices is monitored by dynamic light scattering. When long‐alkyl‐chain amines or carboxylic acids are used as stabilizing ligands, no organization is observed. In contrast, when binary mixtures of long‐alkyl‐chain amines and carboxylic acids are used, the presence of a thermodynamic equilibrium between free and organized ZnO nanoparticles is detected in THF or toluene. The superlattices of organized ZnO nanoparticles are independently observed by TEM and SEM. The coordination mode of the ligands at the surface of the ZnO nanoparticles is evidenced by NMR studies. The presence of ion‐paired ammonium carboxylate surrounding the surface of ZnO nanoparticles appears to be a necessary requirement to govern this reversible organization. This is substantiated by the absence of organization of ZnO nanoparticles when either a solvent of high dielectric constant, such as acetone, or a strong hydrogen‐bond acceptor is used.
Applications of the Static Quenching of Rhodamine B by Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Ahmad Ashraf , Kurkina Tetiana , Kern Klaus , Balasubramanian Kannan
Published: July 2009

We report here on the interaction of the fluorescent dye rhodamine B (RB) with single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). We observe that SWCNTs statically quench the fluorescence of RB by forming a stable ground state complex. Careful spectroscopic analysis indicates that the complex formation is efficient mainly with certain chiral forms. We propose three different applications utilizing this quenching mechanism and the associated complexation. Firstly, the quenching efficiency can be utilized as a measure for the characterization and quantification of nanotube dispersions. Secondly, we demonstrate that the specific complexation of RB can be deployed to enrich certain chiral forms in suspension. Finally, we show that RB can be effectively used to visualize nanotubes deposited on substrates.
Neural networks with quantum architecture and quantum learning
Authors: Panella Massimo , Martinelli Giuseppe
Published: July 2009

A method is proposed for solving the two key problems facing quantum neural networks: introduction of nonlinearity in the neuron operation and efficient use of quantum superposition in the learning algorithm. The former is indirectly solved by using suitable Boolean functions. The latter is based on the use of a suitable nonlinear quantum circuit. The resulting learning procedure does not apply any optimization method. The optimal neural network is obtained by applying an exhaustive search among all the possible solutions. The exhaustive search is carried out by the proposed quantum circuit composed of both linear and nonlinear components. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collisionless Plasma Expansion in the Presence of a Dipole Magnetic Field
Authors: Nersisyan H. B. , Osipyan D. A.
Published: July 2009

The collisionless interaction of an expanding high–energy plasma cloud with a magnetized background plasma in the presence of a dipole magnetic field is examined in the framework of a 2D3V hybrid (kinetic ions and massless fluid electrons) model. The retardation of the plasma cloud and the dynamics of the perturbed electromagnetic fields and the background plasma are studied for high Alfvén–Mach numbers using the particle–in–cellmethod. It is shown that the plasma cloud expands excluding the ambient magnetic field and the background plasma to form a diamagnetic cavity which is accompanied by the generation of a collisionless shock wave. The energy exchange between the plasma cloud and the background plasma is also studied and qualitative agreement with the analytical model suggested previously is obtained (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Study on the Relation Between Discharge Voltage and Magnetic Field Topography in a Hall Thruster Discharge Channel
Authors: Yu D. R. , Li J. , Liu H. , Ning Z. X. , Li Y.
Published: July 2009

The relation between magnetic field topography and operating voltage is investigated in a 1kW Hall thruster discharge channel in order to focus the ion beam effectively and optimize the performance. The curvature of magnetic field line (α) is introduced to characterize the differences of topologies. The optimized magnetic field distribution under each operating voltage is obtained by experiment. Through the curvature transformation, we find that the area of (α > 1) in the channel gradually decreases with the increase of the operating voltage. In response to the results above, two dimensional plasma flows are simulated employing Particle‐in‐Cell method. The distributions of the electric potential, ion density and ion radial velocity are calculated to understand the important influence of the relation above on ion beam focusing. The numerical results indicate that magnetic field curvature and thermal electric field control the ion beam in the ionization and acceleration zone, respectively. The magnetic field topography and discharge voltage interact with each other and together form the focusing electric field. The ion radial mobility is suppressed effectively and the ion beam is focused to the channel centerline. In addition, for a given voltages, when the area of (α > 1) is larger than the optimal scope, the electric potential lines excessively bend to the anode causing ion over focus; contrarily, the electric potential lines will bend to the exit and defocus ions. All these results suggest the relation between magnetic field topography and discharge voltage is important to the ion radial flow control and performance optimization of the Hall thruster (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cyclic Trinuclear Diorganotin(IV) Complexes – The First Tin Compounds Bearing Oximehydroxamate Ligands: Synthesis, Structural Characterization and High In Vitro Cytotoxicity
Authors: Gajewska Malgorzata , Luzyanin Konstantin V. , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Li Qingshan , Cui Jingrong , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: July 2009

The reactions between equimolar amounts of R2SnO (R = Me 1, nBu 2) and N,2‐dihydroxy‐5‐[N‐hydroxyethanimidoyl]benzamide (H2L) under solvent reflux conditions (in toluene for 1 and methanol for 2) for ca. 4 h led to the formation of the trinuclear tin complexes [R2Sn(L)]3 (R = Me 3, nBu 4) isolated as colourless crystalline solids in ca. 85 % yield, which were characterized by IR, 1H, 13C and 119Sn NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and (for 4) by X‐ray diffraction. The trinuclear Sn core is stabilized by multiple intramolecular hydrogen bonding interactions involving the hydroxamate ligands, whereas the uncoordinated oxime functions interact through intermolecular H‐bonds leading to cyclic hexameric assemblies. These complexes are stable in air, soluble in common solvents and moderately in water and represent the first examples of tin species containing ligatedoximehydroxamic acids. Complex 4 exhibits high in vitrotumour‐inhibiting activity against the following human cell lines: promyelocyticfina leukemia (HL‐60), hepatocellular carcinoma (Bel‐7402), gastric carcinoma (BGC‐823) andnasopharyngeal carcinoma (KB). (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Reduction of Disulfides with Magnesium(II) and Gallium(II) Complexes of a Redox‐Active Diimine Ligand
Authors: Fedushkin Igor L. , Nikipelov Alexander S. , Skatova Alexandra A. , Maslova Olga V. , Lukoyanov Anton N. , Fukin Georgy K. , Cherkasov Anton V.
Published: July 2009

The reactions of (dpp‐bian)Mg(thf)3 (1) {dpp‐bian = 1,2‐bis[(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imino]acenaphthene} with 0.5 molar equivalents of RS–SR (R = Bz, sBu, C(S)NMe2) occur with a cleavage of the S–S bond to afford monosulfide complexes (dpp‐bian)Mg(SBz)(dme) (2), (dpp‐bian)Mg[S(sBu)](dme) (3), and (dpp‐bian)Mg[SC(S)NMe2](thf) (4). Compounds 2, 3, and 4 are paramagnetic due to the presence of dpp‐bian radical‐anions that are formed in the course of one‐electron transfer from the dpp‐bian dianion in 1 to the sulfur‐containing substrate. Reduction of BzS–SBz with gallane (dpp‐bian)Ga–Ga(dpp‐bian) (5) gives a mononuclear GaIII complex with the dpp‐bian radical‐anion, (dpp‐bian)Ga(SBz)2 (6). The reaction of 5 with RS–SR (R = C(S)NMe2) proceeds with a cleavage of the S–S and Ga–Ga bonds and affords (dpp‐bian)Ga[SC(S)NMe2] (7), in which the dpp‐bian ligand retains its dianionic state. Complexes 2, 3, 4, and 6 have been characterized by ESR and IR spectroscopy, and complex 7 has been studied by 1H MNR spectroscopy. The molecular structures of 2–4, 6, and 7 have been determined by X‐ray crystallography. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Detection of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in p53 Mutation Hotspots and Expression of Mutant p53 in Human Cell Lines Using an Enzyme‐Linked Electrochemical Assay
Authors: Horáková Petra , Šimková Eva , Vychodilová Zdenka , Brázdová Marie , Fojta Miroslav
Published: July 2009

An enzyme‐linked electrochemical technique for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) typing in the p53 tumor suppressor gene is presented. The technique is based on a DNA polymerase‐catalyzed extension of a primer hybridized to a target DNA strand upstream (5′→3′) to the SNP site by one nucleotide bearing a biotin tag. Under optimized conditions, efficient incorporation of the biotinylated nucleotide occurs only in the case of complementarity between the first nucleotide in single‐stranded 5′‐overhang of the target strand. The introduced biotin tag is detected after capture of the primer extension products at magnetic beads bearing oligoT strands via oligoA adaptors at 5′‐ends of the primer, binding of streptavidin‐alkaline phosphatase conjugate and enzymatic conversion of 1‐naphthyl phosphate into 1‐naphthol which is determined electrochemically at carbon electrodes. In addition to model studies with synthetic oligonucleotides, we report on detection of mutant p53 expression in human cell lines using reverse transcription‐PCR technique combined with amplified primer extension and the magnetic beads‐based electrochemical assay.
Combustion properties of laminated veneer lumbers bonded with PVAc, PF adhesives and impregnated with some fire retardants
Authors: Kurt Şeref , Uysal Burhanettin
Published: July 2009

In this study, the effects of impregnation materials di‐ammonium phosphate, aluminium sulphate, potassium carbonate, calcium chloride, zinc chloride on combustion properties of 3 ply laminated veneer lumbers (LVL) produced from Walnut (Juglans regiaL.) using phenol–formaldehyde (PF), poly (vinyl acetate) have been investigated. The pressure‐vacuum method was used for impregnation process. Combustion test was performed according to the procedure of ASTM‐E 69 standards. During the test, mass reduction, temperature and released gas (CO, NOX, SO2, O2) were determined every 30 s. As a result, zinc chloride was found to be the most successful fire‐retardant chemical in LVL at PF adhesive. Since it diminishes combustion, the fire retardant of LVL produced from walnut using PF adhesive can be advised. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanisms underlying the inhibition of the cytochrome P450 system by copper ions
Authors: Letelier M. E. , Faúndez M. , Jara‐Sandoval J. , Molina‐Berríos A. , Cortés‐Troncoso J. , Aracena‐Parks P. , Marín‐Catalán R.
Published: July 2009

Copper toxicity has been associated to the capacity of free copper ions to catalyze the production of superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical, reactive species that modify the structure and/or function of biomolecules. In addition, nonspecific Cu2+‐binding to thiol enzymes, which modifies their catalytic activities, has been reported. Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) monooxygenase is a thiol protein that binds substrates in the first and limiting step of CYP450 system catalytic cycle, necessary for the metabolism of lipophilic xenobiotics. Therefore, copper ions have the potential to oxidize and bind to cysteinyl residues of this monooxygenase, altering the CYP450 system activity. To test this postulate, we studied the effect of Cu2+alone and Cu2+/ascorbate in rat liver microsomes, to independently evaluate its nonspecific binding and its pro‐oxidant effects, respectively. We assessed these effects on the absorbance spectrum of the monooxygenase, as a measure of structural damage, andp‐nitroanisoleO‐demethylating activity of CYP450 system, as a marker of functional impairment. Data obtained indicate that Cu2+could both oxidize and bind to some amino acid residues of the CYP450 monooxygenase but not to its heme group. The differences observed between the effects of Cu2+and Cu2+/ascorbate show that both mechanisms are involved in the catalytic activity inhibition of CYP450 system by copper ions. The significance of these findings on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs is discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Closure of oroantral communications using biodegradable polyurethane foam: A long term study in rabbits
Authors: Visscher Susan H. , van Minnen Baucke , van Leeuwen M. Barbara M. , van Kooten Theo G. , Bos Rudolf R. M.
Published: July 2009

An oroantral communication (OAC) is an open connection between the oral cavity and maxillary sinus. Closure of OACs is commonly performed with a surgical procedure using a mucoperiosteal flap. An alternative technique using synthetic biodegradable polyurethane (PU) foam for closure of OACs is presented. This PU foam is composed of hard urethane segments, and soft segments made of D/L lactide (50/50), ε‐caprolactone, and 5% polyethyleneglycol (PEG). To evaluate the use of PU foam for this application, OACs were created in the edentulous part of the maxilla in 21 rabbits, after which PU foams were fitted in the defects. Results showed complete healing of the oral mucosa after 4–10 weeks, healing of the antral mucosal lining after 6 months and complete bony regeneration after 1 year. No reopening of the defects occurred and no maxillary sinusitis was observed. Degradation of the PU foam had not yet reached completion 1 year after implantation. In conclusion, PU foam with 5% PEG provides adequate closure of an OAC in the rabbit model to support healing of the oral and maxillary sinus mucosa. Longer time intervals are needed to assess the complete degradation of the PU foam. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Prescribers hold key to systemic reduction of medication error occurrences
Authors: West John C.
Published: July 2009

The medication use process is a complex system made up of interlocking component subsystems. These include the prescribing, dispensing and administration systems. Although great emphasis has been placed on preventing errors in the administration process, the prescribing process can be a common source of error. Physicians and other practitioners need to be aware of the sources of error in this subsystem and need to be receptive to ideas and suggestions for reducing prescribing errors, because only the prescribers themselves can fix this part of the system.
Information technology in health care: Addressing promises and pitfalls
Authors: Stanyon Robert
Published: July 2009

Health information technology (HIT) and electronic medical records systems are receiving much attention in health care though only a relatively small number of health care organizations and providers have embraced the technology. This article introduces important concepts and definitions and provides the risk manager with key elements to consider when incorporating HIT principles into a proactive risk management program. A checklist is offered to assist in the assessment of electronic records systems.
Informed consent and expectation management: A case study
Authors: Sobel David , Popp Pamela L.
Published: July 2009

Purpose: To explore patient responsiveness when exposed to an online educational tool and to determine level of engagement in their medical care/treatment as a consequence of this exposure.

Method: More than 2,400 patients were exposed to the Emmi Solutions online, interactive and illustrated education tool for the procedures of gastric bypass, total hip replacement and colonoscopy. These procedures were chosen to reflect an elective surgery, a significant surgery (non‐elective) and an elective diagnostic procedure. Patient responses were then analyzed to determine the level of engagement through feedback questions and comments, as well as determination of the value of the experience as rated by the patient.

Results: More than 80 percent of patients felt that the online educational tool enhanced their understanding of the procedure/treatment. Specific comments and ratings reflect that the patients were more informed after the experience, and more than 90 percent felt sufficiently impressed with the tool to share it with their friends/family.

Conclusions: Utilizing an interactive educational tool enhances the patient's appreciation for the specifics of the treatment/procedure, increases their awareness of risks, provides information and comfort in knowledge and increases their confidence in the provider of the treatment/procedure. A significant percentage of the patients even engaged their family and friends in reviewing the tool, illustrating significant engagement in their pre‐treatment/procedure experience.
Taking the correct approach
Authors: Smith Paul English
Published: July 2009

Welcome to ASHRM's 27th year! We have started this year off with a fresh new look through the introduction of a new logo and publications format, as you can see from this edition of the Journal, and from the information published in the January/February edition of the Forum newsletter. This is the product of a lot of effort on the part of the ASHRM staff over the past year, and I hope you will join me in letting them know how much we appreciate their efforts to update and maintain ASHRM's positive image as a professional association.
A proposed partnership for investigating device‐related accidents
Authors: Shepherd Marvin , Dreps Douglas , Hyndman Bruce
Published: July 2009

The quality of a device‐related, accident investigation is largely determined by the clinical and technical data available to the investigators. After an event, traditional legal conflicts have tended to prevent full information sharing between the manufacturer and the risk manager of the healthcare facility. We propose that, under the guidance of a risk manager, a healthcare clinical engineer partner with an engineer from the manufacturer and each partner provide maximum information and focused attention on the investigation. The synergy of the partnership should provide a more effective investigation and an increased patient safety in the healthcare delivery system.
Avoiding pitfalls of anticoagulation therapy
Authors: Nasraway Stanley A.
Published: July 2009

Antithrombotic therapy poses a significant risk of litigation owing to the risk of devastating outcomes from both the condition for which the therapy is necessary and the therapy itself. Using a case‐based approach, this article illustrates how evidence‐based guidelines, documentation, and patient communication can potentially reduce the likelihood of errors associated with antithrombotic therapy.
PURE conversations: Enhancing communication and teamwork
Authors: Veltman Larry , Larison Kristine
Published: July 2009

Communications failures have been identified as a significant cause of adverse outcomes in obstetrics. Following the lead of some high reliability organizations, healthcare has introduced structured communication such as SBAR as a way to make sure communications between professionals are direct, complete and effective. The authors have observed, however, that structured communication in healthcare often requires a cultural change in the way that professionals relate to each other; PURE conversations (Purposeful/prepared/productive, Unambiguous, Respectful and Effective) can facilitate this cultural shift. PURE conversations stress the mental processes necessary to conduct and monitor structured communications in real time by taking into account the context and relationships that exist among professionals. This article describes the elements of a multidisciplinary workshop based on clinical scenarios incorporating the PURE concept to improve the effectiveness and adoption of structured communication by the perinatal team.
The timing of early resolution: Working at the patient's pace
Authors: Amori Geraldine , Popp Pamela L.
Published: July 2009

In recent years, risk managers have been charged with educating providers who need to know how to communicate to a patient that an unanticipated or adverse event has occurred. Much has been written about the elements that should be part of a disclosure conversation: who should be involved, what should be said and when it should be said. Patients have acknowledged their desire to have early, and complete, information where possible. However, what is lacking is an understanding of what happens after the initial disclosure conversation, when the time comes to discuss accommodation or compensation with the patient or family. This article will look at the post‐disclosure status of the patient or family, the steps of the grieving process, and the mechanisms for both the risk manager and the provider to successfully bring closure to the event.
The five a's: What do patients want after an adverse event¿
Authors: Cox Wendy
Published: July 2009

After an adverse event, Five A's: Acknowledgment, Apology, All the Facts, Assurance and Appropriate Compensation, serve to meet the essential needs of patients and their families. This simple mnemonic creates a clear framework of understanding for the actions health professionals need to take to manage errors and adverse events in an empathic and patient‐oriented fashion. While not all patients demand or need compensation, most need at least the first four A's. Patient‐centered communication using this simple framework following an adverse event will foster a climate of understanding and frank discussion, addressing the emotional and physical needs of the whole patient and family.
Cyber risk and privacy liability: A click in the right direction¿
Authors: McDonough William J.
Published: July 2009

Cyber risk and privacy exposure exert an impact upon virtually every aspect of a healthcare organization (HCO) — assets, clinical operations, finances and reputation. Exposure is enterprise‐wide and includes risk to both physical and non‐physical assets in increasing degrees. The consequences of a cyber attack or privacy breach could be operationally and financially catastrophic, so an HCO's move toward an enterprise‐wide approach at identifying and minimizing risk, cyber and privacy liability should be on the radar screen for risk managers and leadership.
Technological iatrogenesis: New risks force heightened management awareness
Authors: Palmieri Patrick A. , Peterson Lori T. , Ford Eric W.
Published: July 2009

Iatrogenesis is a term typically reserved to express the state of ill health or the adverse outcome resulting from a medical intervention, or lack thereof. Three types of iatrogenesis are described in the literature: clinical, social and cultural. This paper introduces a fourth type, technological iatrogenesis, or emerging errors stimulated by the infusion of technological innovations into complex healthcare systems. While health information technologies (HIT) have helped to make healthcare safer, this has also produced contemporary varieties of iatrogenic errors and events. The potential pitfalls of technological innovations and risk management solutions to address these concerns are discussed. Specifically, failure mode effect analysis and root cause analysis are discussed as opportunities for risk managers to prevent problems and avert errors from becoming sentinel events.
Considerations for implementing pre‐dispute arbitration agreements in provider contracts
Authors: Desmond Joseph M.
Published: July 2009

Due in part to the historical increase in large compensatory awards and punitive damages in jury verdicts in medical malpractice/long‐term care cases and the concomitant increase in the costs of defending these claims, healthcare providers have sought to reduce litigation costs and avoid exposure to runaway jury verdicts in medical malpractice trials by implementing arbitration agreements in healthcare admission contracts. Risk managers should be aware of the evolving law in this area and recognize that a successful arbitration program requires a commitment to ensuring that the program is administered in accordance with evolving laws.
Minimizing the legal risk with ‘curbside’ consultation
Authors: Kreichelt Ray , Hilbert Mary Lou , Shinn Deidre
Published: July 2009

“Curbside consultations” — in which a physician obtains insights on a medical case from another physician who has not seen the patient or reviewed the record — can yield advantages to the requesting physician. However, shortcomings are inherent in this common type of exchange and pose legal risk to the curbside consultant. This article provides background and practical tips that might help avoid being caught up in a lawsuit by surprise, or if named as a party, avoid being held culpable when the only involvement was a brief conversation with a colleague.
Measurement of glutathione in normal volunteers and stroke patients at 3T using J‐difference spectroscopy with minimized subtraction errors
Authors: An Li , Zhang Yan , Thomasson David M. , Latour Lawrence L. , Baker Eva H. , Shen Jun , Warach Steven
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To develop and optimize a 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) method for measuring brain glutathione (GSH) levels.

Materials and Methods

Phantom experiments and density operator simulations were performed to determine the optimal TE for measuring GSH at 3T using J‐difference spectral editing. In vivo data collected from 11 normal volunteers (43 measurements) and five stroke patients (10 measurements) were processed using a new spectral alignment method (adaptive spectral registration).

Results

In phantom experiments and density operator simulations where relaxation effects were ignored, close to maximum GSH signal (2.95 ppm) was obtained at TE ≈ 131 msec with minimum N‐acetyl‐aspartate (NAA) signal interference. Using adaptive spectral registration, GSH levels in healthy volunteers were found to be 1.20 ± 0.14 mM (mean ± standard deviation [SD]). GSH levels in stroke patients were found to be 1.19 ± 0.24 mM in lesion and 1.25 ± 0.19 mM in contralateral normal tissue. In comparison, the SDs were significantly larger when only the NAA singlet (2.01 ppm) was used as a navigator for spectral alignment.

Conclusion

Spectral editing using J‐differences is a reliable method for measuring GSH levels in volunteers and stroke patients. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:263–270. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reproducibility of 3.0 Tesla magnetic resonance spectroscopy for measuring hepatic fat content
Authors: van Werven Jochem R. , Hoogduin Johannes M. , Nederveen Aart J. , van Vliet Andre A. , Wajs Ewa , Vandenberk Petra , Stroes Erik S.G. , Stoker Jaap
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To investigate reproducibility of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) to measure hepatic triglyceride content (HTGC).

Materials and Methods

In 24 subjects, HTGC was evaluated using 1H‐MRS at 3.0 Tesla. We studied “between‐weeks” reproducibility and reproducibility of 1H‐MRS in subjects with fatty liver. We also studied within liver variability and within day reproducibility. Reproducibility was assessed by coefficient of variation (CV), repeatability coefficient (RC), and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The CV of between weeks reproducibility was 9.5%, with a RC of 1.3% HTGC (ICC 0.998). The CV in fatty livers was 4.1%, with a RC of 1.3% HTGC (ICC 0.997). Within day CV was 4.5%, with a RC of 0.4% HTGC (ICC 0.999). CV for within liver variability was 14.5%.

Conclusion

Reproducibility of 1H‐MRS to measure HTGC for “between‐weeks” measurements and in fatty livers is high, which is important for follow‐up studies. Within liver variability displays a larger variation, meaning that liver fat is not equally distributed and during consecutive measurements the same voxel position should be used. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:444–448. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Application of a biodegradable macromolecular contrast agent in dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI for assessing the efficacy of indocyanine green‐enhanced photothermal cancer therapy
Authors: Feng Yi , Emerson Lyska , Jeong Eun‐Kee , Parker Dennis L. , Lu Zheng‐Rong
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To investigate the effectiveness of a polydisulfide‐based biodegradable macromolecular contrast agent, (Gd‐DTPA)‐cystamine copolymers (GDCC), in assessing the efficacy of indocyanine green‐enhanced photothermal cancer therapy using dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI).

Materials and Methods

Breast cancer xenografts in mice were injected with indocyanine green and irradiated with a laser. The efficacy was assessed using DCE‐MRI with GDCC of 40 kDa (GDCC‐40) at 4 hours and 7 days after the treatment. The uptake of GDCC‐40 by the tumors was fit to a two‐compartment model to obtain tumor vascular parameters, including fractional plasma volume (fPV), endothelium transfer coefficient (KPS), and permeability surface area product (PS).

Results

GDCC‐40 resulted in similar tumor vascular parameters at three doses, with larger standard deviations at lower doses. The values of fPV, KPS, and PS of the treated tumors were smaller (P < 0.05) than those of untreated tumors at 4 hours after the treatment and recovered to pretreatment values (P > 0.05) at 7 days after the treatment.

Conclusion

DCE‐MRI with GDCC‐40 is effective for assessing tumor early response to dye‐enhanced photothermal therapy and detecting tumor relapse after the treatment. GDCC‐40 has a potential to noninvasively monitor anticancer therapies with DCE‐MRI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:401–406. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intraprocedural diffusion‐weighted PROPELLER MRI to guide percutaneous biopsy needle placement within rabbit VX2 liver tumors
Authors: Deng Jie , Virmani Sumeet , Yang Guang‐Yu , Tang Richard , Woloschak Gayle , Omary Reed A. , Larson Andrew C.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To test the hypothesis that diffusion‐weighted (DW)‐PROPELLER (periodically rotated overlapping parallel lines with enhanced reconstruction) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to guide biopsy needle placement during percutaneous interventional procedures to selectively target viable and necrotic tissues within VX2 rabbit liver tumors.

Materials and Methods

Our institutional Animal Care and Use Committee approved all experiments. In six rabbits implanted with 15 VX2 liver tumors, baseline DW‐PROPELLER images acquired prior to the interventional procedure were used for apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements. Next, intraprocedural DW‐PROPELLER scans were performed with needle position iteratively adjusted to target viable, necrotic, or intermediate border tissue regions. DW‐PROPELLER ADC measurements at the selected needle tip locations were compared with the percentage of tumor necrosis qualitatively assessed at histopathology.

Results

DW‐PROPELLER images demonstrated intratumoral tissue heterogeneity and clearly depicted the needle tip position within viable and necrotic tumor tissues. Mean ADC measurements within the region‐of‐interest encompassing the needle tip were highly correlated with histopathologic tumor necrotic tissue assessments.

Conclusion

DW‐PROPELLER is an effective method to selectively position the biopsy needle tip within viable and necrotic tumor tissues. The DW‐PROPELLER method may offer an important complementary tool for functional guidance during MR‐guided percutaneous procedures. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:366–373. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Active two‐channel 0.035″ guidewire for interventional cardiovascular MRI
Authors: Kocaturk Ozgur , Kim Ann H. , Saikus Christina E. , Guttman Michael A. , Faranesh Anthony Z. , Ozturk Cengizhan , Lederman Robert J.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To develop an “active” (receiver‐coil) clinical‐grade guidewire with enhanced visibility for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and favorable mechanical characteristics for interventional MRI procedures that require conspicuous intravascular instruments distinguishable from surrounding tissues.

Materials and Methods

We designed a 0.035‐inch guidewire combining two antenna designs on separate channels. A loop antenna visualizes the tip and a dipole antenna visualizes the whole shaft. We compared mechanical characteristics of this guidewire with x‐ray alternatives and tested MRI performance at 1.5T in vitro and in vivo in swine.

Results

Images reflected tip position within 0.97 ± 0.42 mm and afforded whole‐shaft visibility under expected conditions without sacrificing device size or handling. We report tip stiffness, torquability, and pushability comparable to commercial interventional guidewires.

Conclusion

Our clinical‐grade 0.035‐inch active guidewire is conspicuous under MRI and has mechanical performance comparable to x‐ray interventional guidewires. This may enable a range of interventional procedures using real‐time MRI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:461–465. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantification of aortic compliance in mice using radial phase contrast MRI
Authors: Zhao Xuandong , Pratt Ron , Wansapura Janaka
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of radial phase contrast MR imaging to measure in vivo pulse wave velocity (PWV) and wall shear stress (WSS) in small animals on a 7 Tesla scanner.

Materials and Methods

The aortic compliance of 9‐month‐old ApoE deficient (ApoE‐KO) mice (n = 10) on a normal diet was studied in comparison to that of wild‐type (WT) mice (n = 10). An undersampled, asymmetric echo radial phase contrast MR technique was developed to measure through plane blood flow velocity at axial slices along the descending aorta. The PWV and the time averaged WSS was calculated from the spatiotemporal flow data. The reproducibility of PWV and WSS was evaluated by taking multiple measures on a separate cohort of WT (n = 4) mice.

Results

The mean percentage standard deviation among repeated measures was 10.1% for PWV and 24.8% for WSS. The PWV of ApoE‐KO mice (5.84 ± 2.15 m/s) was significantly higher (p = 0.02) than that of WT (3.55 ± 0.97 m/s), whereas WSS was lower in ApoE‐KO mice (1.44 ± 0.31Pa) compared with WT (1.55 ± 0.36Pa).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that in vivo PWV derived from radial phase contrast MR imaging can be potentially used as a surrogate marker for impaired vascular function in mice. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:286–291. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measurements from image‐based three dimensional pelvic floor reconstruction: A study of inter‐ and intraobserver reliability
Authors: Hoyte Lennox , Brubaker Linda , Fielding Julia R. , Lockhart Mark E. , Heilbrun Marta E. , Salomon Caryl G. , Ye Wen , Brown Morton B.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To describe inter‐ and intraobserver reliability of 3D measurements of female pelvic floor structures.

Materials and Methods

Twenty reconstructed MR datasets of primiparas at 6–12 months postpartum were analyzed. Pelvic organ measurements were independently made twice by three radiologists blinded to dataset order. A “within‐reader” analysis, a “between‐reader” analysis, and the intraclass correlation (ICC), and standard deviation ratio (SDR) were computed for each parameter. Fifteen continuous variables and one categorical variable were measured.

Results

Eight continuous parameters showed excellent agreement (ICC >0.85 / SDR <0.40), five parameters showed relatively good agreement (ICC >0.70 / SDR ≥0.40, <0.60). Two parameters showed poor agreement (ICC ≤0.70 and/or SDR ≥0.60). The categorical variable showed poor agreement.

Conclusion

Agreement was best where landmark edges were well defined, acceptable where more “reader judgment” was needed, and poor where levator defects made landmarks difficult to identify. Automated measurement algorithms are under study and may improve agreement in the future. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:344–350. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of low frequency fluctuations in BOLD fMRI of the rat
Authors: Majeed Waqas , Magnuson Matthew , Keilholz Shella D.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To examine spatiotemporal dynamics of low frequency fluctuations in rat cortex.

Materials and Methods

Gradient‐echo echo‐planar imaging images were acquired from anesthetized rats (repetition time = 100 ms). Power spectral analysis was performed to detect different frequency peaks. Functional connectivity maps were obtained for the frequency peaks of interest. The images in the filtered time‐series were displayed as a movie to study spatiotemporal patterns in the data for frequency bands of interest.

Results

High temporal and spectral resolution allowed separation of primary components of physiological noise and visualization of spectral details. Two low frequency peaks with distinct characteristics were observed. Selective visualization of the second low frequency peak revealed waves of activity that typically began in the secondary somatosensory cortex and propagated to the primary motor cortex.

Conclusion

To date, analysis of these fluctuations has focused on the detection of functional networks assuming steady state conditions. These results suggest that detailed examination of the spatiotemporal dynamics of the low frequency fluctuations may provide more insight into brain function, and add a new perspective to the analysis of resting state fMRI data. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:384–393. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transverse relaxation time (T2) mapping in the brain with off‐resonance correction using phase‐cycled steady‐state free precession imaging
Authors: Deoni Sean C.L.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To investigate a new approach for more completely accounting for off‐resonance affects in the DESPOT2 (driven equilibrium single pulse observation of T2) mapping technique.

Materials and Methods

The DESPOT2 method derives T2 information from fully balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) images acquired over multiple flip angles. Off‐resonance affects, which present as bands of altered signal intensity throughout the bSSFP images, results in erroneous T2 values in the corresponding calculated maps. Radiofrequency (RF) phase‐cycling, in which the phase of the RF pulse is incremented along the pulse train, offers a potential method for eliminating these artifacts. In this work we present a general method, referred to as DESPOT2, with full modeling (DESPOT2‐FM), for deriving T2, as well as off‐resonance frequency, from dual flip angle bSSFP data acquired with two RF phase increments.

Results

The method is demonstrated in vivo through the acquisition of whole‐brain, 1 mm3 isotropic T2 maps at 3T and shown to provide near artifact‐free maps, even in areas with steep susceptibility‐induced gradients.

Conclusion

DESPOT2‐FM offers an efficient method for acquiring high spatial resolution, whole‐brain T2 maps at 3T with high precision and free of artifact. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:411–417. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of bone metastases in non‐small cell lung cancer patients: Comparison of whole‐body diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), whole‐body MR imaging without and with DWI, whole‐body FDG‐PET/CT, and bone scintigraphy
Authors: Takenaka Daisuke , Ohno Yoshiharu , Matsumoto Keiko , Aoyama Nobukazu , Onishi Yumiko , Koyama Hisanobu , Nogami Munenobu , Yoshikawa Takeshi , Matsumoto Sumiaki , Sugimura Kazuro
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To prospectively compare the capability for bone metastasis assessment of whole‐body diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without and with DWI, [18F] fluoro‐2‐D‐glucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography (FDG‐PET/CT) and bone scintigraphy in non‐small cell carcinoma (NSCLC) patients.

Materials and Methods

In all, 115 consecutive NSCLC patients (66 men, 49 women; mean age 72 years) prospectively underwent whole‐body MRI, PET/CT, and bone scintigraphy before treatment. For each method, probability of metastasis was independently assessed by using a 5‐point visual scoring system on a per‐site basis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC)‐based positive tests were used to determine the practical threshold value for each method on a per‐site basis. Sensitivities, specificities, and accuracies were then compared on a per‐site and per‐patient basis by means of McNemar's test.

Results

When the practical threshold values were adapted, specificity and accuracy of whole‐body MRI with DWI were significantly higher than those of bone scintigraphy and PET/CT (P < 0.05). On a per‐patient basis, specificity and accuracy of whole‐body MRI with DWI were significantly higher than those of bone scintigraphy (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Whole‐body MRI with DWI can be used for bone metastasis assessment of NSCLC patients as accurate as bone scintigraphy and/or PET/CT. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2009;30:298–308. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.