bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a telemedicine protocol for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Loh Poh-kooi , Donaldson Mark , Flicker Leon , Maher Sean , Goldswain Peter
Published: March 2007

We developed a telemedicine protocol for diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Assessments by video-conferencing (remote) were compared with face to face (direct) assessments. Eight physicians performed direct assessments and two physicians conducted remote assessments. There was alternate allocation of direct or remote initial assessment. The participants were 20 subjects over 65 years living in a rural area and referred by general practitioners (GPs) because of cognitive impairment. Each assessment included a Standardised Mini Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale, Katz assessment of Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental ADL assessment, and the Informant Questionnaire for Cognitive Decline in the Elderly. Laboratory results and radiological imaging were available from referring GPs. There was good agreement for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease between telemedicine and direct assessment, kappa = 0.8 ( P<0.0001). However, because of the small sample size, the presence of systematic bias could not be completely excluded. We conclude that it is possible to diagnose AD at a distance using telemedicine, but this requires validation with a larger study.
The 2005 'Last Chance Bravo' bioterrorism exercise
Authors: Balch David , Rosenthal David , Taylor Carl
Published: March 2007

The 2005 'Last Chance Bravo' bioterrorism exercise provided a forum for testing advanced technologies in a simulated disaster. The four-day exercise included a 2-day simulated pneumonic plague outbreak, with 50 participants from the Montana Department of Health and Human Services, 20 participants from various hospital organizations and approximately 150 participants from over 40 telemedicine sites. Telephone communications and Web tools supported much of the critical information exchange. Videoconferencing added an element of image sharing for pathology, radiology and geospatial mapping. During the exercise three telehealth networks facilitated a telemedicine session to over 40 sites across Montana. Because of the large number of telehealth sites participating, the videoconference session became more like an informational news broadcast. The ability of telemedicine to support image and data sharing may be a significant advantage over simple telephone communications in disaster response.
A qualitative study of in-home robotic telepresence for home care of community-living elderly subjects
Authors: Boissy Patrick , Corriveau Hélène , Michaud François , Labonté Daniel , Royer Marie-Pier
Published: March 2007

We examined the requirements for robots in home telecare using two focus groups. The first comprised six healthcare professionals involved in geriatric care and the second comprised six elderly people with disabilities living in the community. The concept of an in-home telepresence robot was illustrated using a photograph of a mobile robot, and participants were then asked to suggest potential health care applications. Interview data derived from the transcript of each group discussion were analyzed using qualitative induction based on content analysis. The analyses yielded statements that were categorized under three themes: potential applications, usability issues and user requirements. Teleoperated mobile robotic systems in the home were thought to be useful in assisting multidisciplinary patient care through improved communication between patients and healthcare professionals, and offering respite and support to caregivers under certain conditions. The shift from a traditional hospital-centred model of care in geriatrics to a home-based model creates opportunities for using telepresence with mobile robotic systems in home telecare.
Analysis of the suitability of 'video-visits' for palliative home care: implications for practice
Authors: Hebert Marilynne A , Paquin Marie-Josée , Whitten Lynn , Cai Pin
Published: March 2007

We conducted a retrospective chart review to estimate the extent to which palliative home care visits could be carried out using videophones and to explore factors that might inform the eligibility criteria for video-visits. Four hundred palliative home care health records of deceased clients from 2002 were randomly selected from the Health Records Office in one Canadian health region. One visit was randomly selected from each of these health records. Three hundred and fifty-four visits were coded, and based on professional nursing judgment, the coder estimated whether video-visits could have been carried out. Approximately 43% of the visits were considered appropriate for video-visits. The results suggest that four factors may inform eligibility and decisions about a client's suitability for video-visits: diagnosis (cancer versus non-cancer), low Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) score, no care-giver present, number and types of interventions required. Patients with a cancer diagnosis were more likely to be suitable for video-visits, which suggests that disease trajectory, rather than diagnosis of 'palliative', may be more influential in determining the care required and appropriateness of videophone use.
A qualitative study of the attitudes of patients and staff to the use of mobile phone technology for recording and gathering asthma data
Authors: Cleland Jennifer , Caldow Jan , Ryan Dermot
Published: March 2007

Linking mobile phone technology with electronic data collection may facilitate the research experience and improve compliance. We conducted a qualitative interview study using a purposeful sample of 10 patients with asthma and two research staff. Patient diary information was collected twice a day using an electronic peak flow meter linked to a mobile phone with an interactive screen to record current asthma symptoms transmitted to, and stored in, a server. An analysis of the interview data identified key technological adjustments and support factors which would improve the application of the technology in future clinical trials. Patients and staff believed that mobile phone technology would be useful in clinical practice as well as research. Its main uses were seen as identifying poor control more quickly and facilitating communication with healthcare professionals without the need for face-to-face consultation. There was a high degree of acceptability to both patients and staff.
A Comparative Perspective on the Experiences of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals as Students at Mainstream and Special Schools
Authors: Angelides Panayiotis , Aravi Christiana
Published: March 2007

Integration of individuals categorized as having special educational needs in mainstream schools has become a dominant policy in many countries. Changes in recent years in the field traditionally called "special education" have significantly influenced the education of deaf and hard of hearing individuals. The movements against segregation and toward integration and, more recently, inclusion, have created the conditions for educational changes, not only in mainstreaming but in special education. The article brings to light the views and experiences of deaf and hard of hearing people as students at special schools and mainstream schools, in order to compare the two systems from the viewpoints of those involved and to explore the possible implications of these views and experiences for the development of the educational system in Cyprus regarding inclusive education. Particular attention is given to improvement of the education of deaf and hard of hearing children.
The Los Angeles County Response to Child Abuse and Deafness: A Social Movement Theory Analysis
Authors: Embry Richard A , Grossman Frank D
Published: March 2007

There is increasingly strong evidence that children with disabilities are at higher risk for maltreatment when compared to children without disabilities. There is also concern about the adequacy of child welfare services for children and parents with disabilities, particularly those disabilities that result in a communication impairment. This article describes a successful community practice effort in Los Angeles County that resulted in the establishment of a comprehensive array of linguistically and culturally competent child abuse prevention and treatment services for the maltreated deaf child and for the deaf parent at risk for child abuse perpetration. Social movement theory is used to analyze a change effort that was developed and implemented by a broad coalition of members of the Deaf and hearing communities. Elements of the problem, social movement theory, the coalition, the change strategy, and the results are described.
Deafness and Attention in Deaf Children
Authors: Guarinello Ana Cristina , Berberian Ana Paula , Santana Ana Paula de Oliveira , Massi Giselle
Published: March 2007

The study shows the differences between hearing parents and deaf instructors interacting with deaf children and directing their attention. Data were collected at home and at a service for special needs in Bristol, England. The mother or instructor was asked to play naturally with the child with the toys provided. When the child's attention was focused during their play, the mother or instructor had to try to direct the child's attention to each of the toys. The results suggest that both groups (mothers and instructors) were effective in directing attention to objects not in the immediate area of play; however, hearing mothers were more successful than deaf instructors.
Demographic Characteristics and Rates of Progress of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons Receiving Substance Abuse Treatment
Authors: Moore Dennis , McAweeney Mary
Published: March 2007

A lack of demographic information and data related to the achievement of short-term goals during substance abuse treatment among persons who are deaf or hard of hearing dictated the need for the study. New York State maintains a database on all individuals who participate in treatment. Within this database, 1.8% of persons in treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) were also deaf or hard of hearing. As hypothesized, members of the deaf and hard of hearing sample were older, likelier to be white, and likelier to be female, relative to the SUD-only group. For both groups, alcohol, heroin, and cocaine had the highest rates of reported use. Achievement of short-term goals in the areas of alcohol use, drug use, vocational/educational goals, and overall goals indicated no differences between the deaf and hard of hearing group and the SUD-only group. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Googling "Deaf": Deafness in the World's English-Language Press
Authors: Power Desmond J. (Desmond John)
Published: March 2007

An Internet search tool, Google Alert, was used to survey the global English-language press JulyâDecember 2005 for references to deaf people. The survey found that such references focus on people who are deaf rather than the disability itself, thus demonstrating how well deaf people fit into the mainstream. Derogatory terminology such as "deaf and dumb" was rare. However, when used metaphorically, the term deaf usually had negative connotations. Implications for the public view of deaf people are considered in this context.
Where Is It? How Deaf Adolescents Complete Fact-Based Internet Search Tasks
Authors: Smith Chad E
Published: March 2007

An exploratory study was designed to describe Internet search behaviors of deaf adolescents who used Internet search engines to complete fact-based search tasks. The study examined search behaviors of deaf high school students such as query formation, query modification, Web site identification, and Web site selection. Consisting of two fact-based search tasks, the study was done in four regional day school programs for the deaf. As students conducted two search tasks, they completed task analyses of the selected Web sites and gave reasons for their selections. The research also identified the processes used by deaf students to compensate for limited English reading abilities while navigating search engines results that were typically written well above deaf students' average reading level. The results demonstrated that deaf adolescents were unable to initiate, conduct, analyze, or validate effective Internet searches in response to fact-based search tasks.
Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Symptom Severity Among Children Hospitalized with Asthma
Authors: Bai Yu , Hillemeier Marianne M , Lengerich Eugene J
Published: March 2007

Asthma is the most common chronic illness among U.S. children as well as a leading cause of hospitalization and functional disability. This cross-sectional study uses 2001 hospitalization data for Pennsylvania to examine disparities among Black, Hispanic, and White children in asthma symptomatology at the time of admission. Compared with Whites, Black children were over twice as likely to have the most severe asthma symptoms, taking into account age, sex, insurance status, income, and rural/urban residence. Increased likelihood of severe clinical condition at admission was also independently associated with Medicaid coverage, with older age at admission, and with urban residence. The relationship between symptom severity at presentation in the emergency department and access to and utilization of appropriate ambulatory care services for children with asthma warrants further investigation.
Attitudes of African American and Low Socioeconomic Status White Women toward Medical Research
Authors: Farmer Deborah F , Jackson Sharon A , Camacho Fabian , Hall Mark A.
Published: March 2007

Minority and low socioeconomic status women are under-represented in clinical research due to logistical, informational, attitudinal, and sociocultural barriers. The primary objective of this study was to explore factors associated with research participation among African American and low socioeconomic status White women using the Theory of Planned Behavior. A secondary goal was to assess differences in barriers to research participation by age and race. A combination of qualitative (focus groups) and quantitative (trust scale) methodologies was employed. Ten focus groups were held, organized by age and race. Content analysis revealed three predominant themes: fear, distrust, and hope. Older women had higher trust; there was no difference in trust by race. The results suggest that women have conflicting feelings about research that cross ethnic lines and should be addressed by researchers. Effective strategies for overcoming barriers and increasing representation are those that establish ongoing relationships with relevant communities.
Using NAMCS to Characterize the Urban Health Care Safety Net
Authors: LaCalle Eduardo , Schechter Clyde B , McKee M. Diane , Fletcher Jason
Published: March 2007

Purpose. Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) have been used to describe many facets of ambulatory care, but have been underutilized in their application to the urban health care safety net. Our interest was in comparing the visit characteristics of inner city primary care practices in New York City with those of the rest of the country. Methods. Data were collected in 15 primary care centers affiliated with the New York City Research & Improvement Networking Group (NYC RING), a practice-based research network. Physicians completed the cross-sectional survey after patient visits using a slightly augmented version of the standard NAMCS form. Results were then compared with a subset of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's public-use dataset for the 2002 NAMCS, selecting only visits to primary care providers and practices in metropolitan statistical areas (N=8,598). Variables of primary interest were visit lengths and diagnoses, adjusting for age and sex. Results. Physicians in NYC RING collected data on 1,861 encounters. Compared with the national sample, our clinicians see 140% more diabetes visits, 70% more hypertension, and 90% more asthma, and provide 88% more dermatologic care and over 300% more reproductive health services. Visits were, on average, one minute longer in our inner city practices (pConclusions. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome and environmentally-related conditions and the provision of more than average specialty care characterize safety net care in New York City.
Hearing Handicap Among Adult Residents of an Urban Homeless Shelter
Authors: Saccone Patricia A , Steiger James R
Published: March 2007

This retrospective study was undertaken to identify the prevalence of hearing loss in the homeless population and its implications for vocational rehabilitation. Audiometric threshold data for adult residents of an urban homeless shelter were collected and reported. Subjects with hearing loss were identified and defined by their binaural high-frequency pure tone average (B-HFPTA). Those subjects were assigned a predicted Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults-Screener (HHIA-S) score. Their HHIA-S scores, in turn, were used to predict hearing handicap and hearing aid candidacy. Significant hearing handicap was predicted for 35.6% of subjects; 10.6% were identified as hearing aid candidates. These findings have implications for vocational rehabilitation that have not been previously addressed.
Lords of the Auspicious Conjunction: Turco-Mongol Imperial Identity on the Subcontinent
Authors: Balabanlilar Lisa
Published: March 2007

Re-evaluating the scholarly and intellectual isolation with which India's Mughal empire has been treated, this study identifies the Mughals as direct descendants of Chinggis Khan and Tamerlane (Timur). It also explores the systematic manipulation of their Central Asian legacy through which the Mughals defined and defended their imperial identity and political viability on the South Asian subcontinent. In identifying and examining Mughal loyalty to Turco-Mongol institutions and traditions, the study positions the Mughal dynasty in the center of the early modern Islamic world as the direct successor of a powerful political and religious tradition.
Social History and World History: Prospects for Collaboration
Authors: Stearns Peter N
Published: March 2007

This article discusses the several reasons for the complex relationship between social history and world history. It notes also the increasing interest among social historians for reconsidering their geographical range and base, which provides new opportunities for interaction between the fields. Using childhood as an example, the article argues for the mutual utility of running social history topics through world history periodization and related concerns with interregional contacts.
How warm is the corporate response to climate change? Evidence from Pakistan and the UK
Authors: Jeswani Harish Kumar , Wehrmeyer Walter , Mulugetta Yacob
Published: March 2007

In response to growing consensus among scientists and governments to act fast to avoid dangerous impacts of climate change, many industries have started to prepare for a carbon‐constrained world. However, this response is far from being uniform. Often action is predicated on economic, technological, organizational and institutional drivers and barriers, which vary between countries and across industrial sectors. In order to understand the effectiveness of industry response, it is therefore important to analyse corporate response across different sectors in different countries.

Focusing on the nine most energy‐intensive and greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting industrial sectors, this paper compares corporate responses to climate change in Pakistan and the UK. By analysing the divergence of strategies adopted by industries across different sectors in two countries, the paper examines the key factors influencing corporate adoption and implementation of GHG reduction and energy‐efficiency strategies in Pakistan and the UK. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Chiral Platinum(II) Metallointercalators with Potent in vitro Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Fisher Dianne M. , Bednarski Patrick J. , Grünert Renate , Turner Peter , Fenton Ronald R. , Aldrich‐Wright Janice R.
Published: March 2007

Four platinum(II) metallointercalating complexes of 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen) with the chiral ancillary ligands trans‐R,R‐ and trans‐S,S‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane (R,R‐ and S,S‐dach, respectively), and N,N′‐dimethyl‐R,R‐ and N,N′‐dimethyl‐S,S‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane (Me2‐R,R‐dach and Me2‐S,S‐dach, respectively) have been synthesised and characterised. The crystal structure of [Pt(Me2‐S,S‐dach)(phen)](ClO4)2⋅1.5 H2O (C20H26Cl2N4O9.5Pt) has been determined; orthorhombic, space group P212121(No. 19), a=23.194(8), b=25.131(9), c=8.522(3) Å. In vitro cytotoxic assays (IC50) in the human bladder cancer cell line 5637 and in the murine leukemia L1210 cell line revealed that [Pt(S,S‐dach)(phen)](ClO4)2 (0.091 and 0.13 μM, respectively) and [Pt(R,R‐dach)(phen)](ClO4)2 (0.54 and 1.50 μM, respectively) were more cytotoxic than cisplatin (0.31 and 0.50 μM, respectively) and considerably more cytotoxic than their methylated counterparts, [Pt(Me2‐R,R‐dach)(phen)](ClO4)2 and [Pt(Me2‐S,S‐dach)(phen)](ClO4)2 (both>23 μM). Chiral discrimination for [Pt(S,S‐dach)(phen)](ClO4)2 over its R,R‐enantiomer was observed in all 13 cancer cell lines investigated. Moreover, [Pt(S,S‐dach)(phen)](ClO4)2 was more active than cisplatin in all cell lines tested and shows only partial cross‐resistance to cisplatin in two cisplatin resistant cell lines.
The shielding tensor part II: Understanding its strange effects on relaxation
Authors: Anet Frank A. L. , O'leary Daniel J.
Published: March 2007

The shielding tensor can be nonsymmetric and thus in general has both symmetric and antisymmetric parts. Relaxation by these two parts of the shielding tensor (chemical shift anisotropy or CSA relaxation) are reviewed and compared with relaxation by the dipole‐dipole (DD) mechanism. It is explained how T2 can be equal to (6/7)T1 or to 2T1 in limiting situations for relaxation that involves the shielding tensor. Cross‐correlation (or interference) effects between CSA and DD relaxation and the relationship between CSA and spin‐rotation relaxation are briefly reviewed.
The Hamiltonians of NMR. part I
Authors: Smith Scott A. , Palke William E. , Gerig J. T.
Published: March 2007

Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy has evolved in complexity to the extent that it is often useful to carry out computer simulations of experiments as a way to refine experimental conditions, to maximize usable information, or to interpret results reliably. The starting point for such simulations is an appropriate quantum mechanical formulation. This article presents many of the physical ideas that are important in high‐resolution NMR spectroscopy and then develops expressions for the contribution of each of these to the Hamiltonian for the system under consideration. The Hamiltonians for the Zeeman interaction, scalar coupling, and the chemical shielding effect are discussed with the aim of explaining the quantum mechanics of NMR in a manner understandable to a nontheoretician. Consequently, much of the discussion is explicit and includes points skimmed over in other presentations in the literature.
Measurements of spin concentration in electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy preparation of standard solutions from optical absorption
Authors: Kooser Robert G. , Kirchmann Eric , Matkov Thomas
Published: March 2007

The detailed requirements for the accurate determination of electron spin concentration by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy are examined, and the use of the dual‐sample cavity for measuring spin concentrations is reviewed. The lack of adequate solution‐phase concentration standards is examined, and a new method based on photometric titration techniques is given for determining piperidine nitroxide concentrations in polar solvents. The titration procedure is used to determine the molar absorptivity of several common piperidine nitroxides in water and in water‐methanol solutions.
The Hamiltonians of NMR. Part II
Authors: Smith Scott A. , Palke William E. , Gerig J. T.
Published: March 2007

The derivation of various components of the Hamiltonian operator used to describe high‐resolution NMR experiments is presented, with an emphasis on time‐dependent interactions that can produce relaxation of a spin system (dipole‐dipole, chemical shift anisotropy) or that lead to excitation of a spin system (radio‐frequency field).
Methods of single‐ and double‐selective excitation: Theory and applications. Part II
Authors: Gaggelli Elena , Valensin Gianni
Published: March 2007

A general review of applications of selective excitation techniques is provided. The different methods for suppression of solvent signal are summarized. The theoretical basis of selective population inversion and selective polarization transfer is considered and applications are treated. Direct observation of chemical‐exchange processes is discussed for both the two‐site and the multi‐site system. Finally, the potential of selective excitation techniques for extracting structural and dynamic information from single‐ and double‐selective relaxation rates is addressed, with particular emphasis given to NMR studies of small ligands bound to macromolecules.
Introduction to transmission lines basic principles and applications of quarter‐wavelength cables and impedance matching
Authors: Traficante Daniel D.
Published: March 2007

The basic electrical properties of transmission lines are reviewed, and it is shown how these properties determine the characteristic impedance of the line. For resonant lines, the formation of standing waves is explained. The variation of the impedance of the line as a function of its length is shown to be caused by the standing waves of voltage and current. Various equations for the standing‐wave ratio and the concomitant power losses are derived for systems that are impedance mismatched. Applications in NMR spectroscopy include the use of transmission lines as filters, as impedance‐matching devices, and for directing pulses toward the probe and away from the preamplifier. Finally, a simple laboratory experiment demonstrates the properties of open and shorted quarter‐ and half‐wavelength cables.
Density matrix calculations of AB spectra from multipulse sequences: Quantum mechanics meets In vivo spectroscopy
Authors: Mulkern Robert , Bowers John
Published: March 2007

Localized in vivo spectroscopic studies are generally performed with successive, spatially orthogonal, slice‐selective radio‐frequency (rf) pulses so that the received signal is confined to a particular volume of interest. Although these techniques spatially restrict the signal, successive rf pulses applied prior to signal acquisition give rise to complex spectral modulations for coupled spin systems. Interpulse timing delays, rf flip angles, and phases all affect these modulations, which must be fully understood and appreciated if sequences are to be optimized for specific in vivo spectroscopic studies. The density matrix formalism is particularly suited for this task. Our purpose is to demonstrate how the density matrix formalism is used to study spectral modulations induced by selected multipulse sequences for an AB system.
The relationship between sensitivity and integral accuracy further comments on optimum tip angle and relaxation delay for quantitative analysis
Authors: Traficante Daniel D. , Steward Lynne R.
Published: March 2007

An evaluation of the relationship between signal‐to‐noise ratio (S/N) and integral accuracy, as a function of tip angle and relaxation delay, shows that the SIN decreases with increasing integral accuracy. At the expense of a slight decrease in integral accuracy, a substantial increase in SIN can be realized, and a procedure is presented for selecting the appropriate tip angle and relaxation delay.
The hamiltonians of NMR. Part IV: NMR relaxation
Authors: Smith Scott A. , Palke William E. , Gerig J. T.
Published: March 2007

Using the methods presented in our previous discussions of the Hamiltonians of NMR, we describe the processes that lead to relaxation of spin systems. The same nomenclature and methods of Parts I, II, and III have been used to develop a formulation of time‐dependent operators.
Retrospective comments on magnetic resonance and relaxation
Authors: Bloembergen N.
Published: March 2007

Early developments of basic concepts in NMR relaxation are reviewed from a personal perspective.
COSY spectra of paramagnetic macromolecules: Observability, scalar effects, cross‐correlation effects, relaxation‐allowed coherence transfer
Authors: Bertini Ivano , Piccioli Mario , Tarchi Dario , Luchinat Claudio
Published: March 2007

1H‐1H homonuclear correlated spectroscopy (COSY) cross peaks are detected at high fields in the case of paramagnetic macromolecular systems, even between signals with linewidths of 103 hertz. Because they cannot be ascribed to J‐coupling effects, we began to look for novel or undiscovered physical phenomena. Cross correlation occurs between proton‐proton dipolar coupling and Curie spin‐nuclear spin relaxation. The effect on a dipolar coupled AX system is that each signal is made up of two overlapped components with different linewidths. The cross correlation produces antiphase coherence that generates COSY cross peaks when a 90° ‐t1 −90°‐ t2 experiment is performed, even though the phase of the cross peak with respect to a normal J‐coupling scheme is different. Here, a theoretical derivation of the effect is given. Because the observation of this cross‐correlation effect is absolutely general in paramagnetic metalloproteins, the pulse sequences that quench the effect are shown. It also is stressed that it would be desirable to quench concomitant J‐coupling effects and to detect cross peaks that result only from cross‐correlation effects; a sequence to achieve this is shown.
Tailored selective NMR excitation by projection presaturation
Authors: Singh Saryu , Deslauriers Roxanne
Published: March 2007

Selective excitation of spins in one region in a relatively large object is important for many NMR applications in biology and medicine. For example, excitation of spins in a slice (one‐dimensional excitation) is the basis of tomographic (section) imaging and is currently used in clinical MR imaging (MRI) for diagnosing human disease. Selective excitation in two and three dimensions also is important. It is used primarily in localized in vivo MR spectroscopy (MRS) for quantifying the metabolites or energetics of a diseased tissue, but it also is used in MRI for limited field of view imaging or for improving image quality by suppression of flow and motion artifacts. We describe a technique, projection presaturation, for selectively exciting a single volume of interest (VOI) or for simultaneous excitation of multiple VOIs, the shape and size of which can be tailored in one, two, or three dimensions. Projection presaturation has advantages over commonly used techniques: It is conformal; it provides maximum sensitivity; it is accurate even in the presence of T1 variation, tip‐angle errors (deviation from the desired tip‐angle caused by mistuning or inhomogeneity of the radio frequency transmit field), and off‐resonance effects (variation in the resonance frequency caused by Bo inhomogeneity and chemical shifts); and it is suitable for shortT2 species. Several applications of the method in MRI and MRS are described and discussed.
Introduction to EPR imaging using magnetic‐field gradients
Authors: Eaton Gareth R. , Eaton Sandra S.
Published: March 2007

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) imaging studies the location of paramagnetic centers in a sample and the characteristics of the spins at each location. This article introduces techniques in which magnetic‐field gradients are used to encode spatial information in one‐dimensional spatial, two‐dimensional spatial‐spatial, two‐dimensional spectralspatial. And three‐dimensional spectral‐spatial‐spatial images. Examples from continuous‐wave and spin‐echo EPR imaging are presented.
Adiabatic slice‐selective rf pulses and a single‐shot adiabatic localization pulse sequence
Authors: Slotboom J. , Bovée W. M. M. J.
Published: March 2007

The localization quality of frequency‐selective adiabatic radio frequency (rf) pulses is subtantially less affected by rf inhomogeneity than is the localization of amplitude‐modulated pulses. For this reason, adiabatic pulses are popular for use in experiments carried out with rf coils that produce inhomogeneous rf fields. Starting with the Schrodinger equation, the Bloch equations are derived, neglecting relaxation. The adiabatic principle is introduced, and it is demonstrated that accurate adiabatic localization is possible with simple schemes for amplitude and frequency modulation. Adiabatic pulses perform well only in an rf amplitude range limited by a lower and an upper bound. Phase‐compensated, slice‐selective adiabatic 2π pulses are used in a variant of the single‐shot localization method, SADLOVE, for which a theoretical quantitative model of the localization performance is derived. A simple variant of the VERSE method to reduce the rf pulse energy of adiabatic pulses is presented.
Expression of caveolin‐1 in mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the salivary glands: Correlation with vascular endothelial growth factor, microvessel density, and clinical outcome
Authors: Shi Lu , Chen Xin‐Ming , Wang Li , Zhang Lu , Chen Zhi
Published: March 2007

BACKGROUND.

Caveolin‐1, which has been proposed as a candidate tumor suppressor, plays a regulatory role in several signaling pathways. The importance of caveolin‐1 in endothelial cells in angiogenesis has been confirmed. The clinicopathologic significance of caveolin‐1 expression and its correlation with angiogenesis remains unknown in mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) of the salivary glands.

METHODS.

Based on an immunohistochemical study, the expression levels of caveolin‐1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the intratumoral microvessel density (MVD) (labeled by CD34) in 75 patients with MEC were investigated, and correlations with clinicopathologic variables were evaluated statistically.

RESULTS.

The expression rates of both caveolin‐1 and VEGF were 54.7% (41 of 75 tumors). MVD varied from 9 to 56 (24.45 ± 10.72)/×200. Caveolin‐1 expression was correlated inversely with duration of tumor, clinical stage, histologic grade, and MVD (P = .027, P = .011, P = .04, and P = .025; respectively). VEGF expression was associated positively with MVD (P = .000). Advanced clinical stage, higher grade, and tumors that originated from minor salivary glands exhibited higher MVD (P = .029, P = .002, and P = .008, respectively). The presence of clinical symptoms, male gender, advanced clinical stage, higher grade, increased MVD, and down‐regulated caveolin‐1 were correlated significantly with the development of recurrent disease, as indicated by a shorter disease‐free interval (P < .05). Both univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that clinical stage, histologic grade, and MVD were independent prognostic factors (P < .05). The presence of clinical symptoms and the down‐regulation of caveolin‐1 were identified as negative prognostic predictors in the univariate analysis (P < .05) but did not achieve significance in the multivariate analysis (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS.

The current results suggest that caveolin‐1 may function as a tumor suppressor in MEC of the salivary glands. Reduced expression of caveolin‐1 and increased MVD may indicate a poor prognosis for certain patients. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Evidence for activation of KIT, PDGFRα, and PDGFRβ receptors in the Ewing sarcoma family of tumors
Authors: Bozzi Fabio , Tamborini Elena , Negri Tiziana , Pastore Elisa , Ferrari Andrea , Luksch Roberto , Casanova Michela , Pierotti Marco A. , Bellani Franca Fossati , Pilotti Silvana
Published: March 2007

BACKGROUND.

The Ewing sarcoma family of tumors (ESFT) is one of the most common malignant neoplasms of children and adolescents, characterized by nonrandom translocations involving the Ewing sarcoma (EWS) gene. Over the years the adoption of intensive multimodality treatment approaches has led to a gradual improvement in the survival of patients with ESFT. The prognosis is still unsatisfactory for high‐risk patients, however, and novel therapeutic approaches are desirable. The aim of the study was to investigate the expression/activation of KIT, PDGFRα, and PDGFRβ receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) as potential therapeutic targets in ESFT.

METHODS.

RNA and proteins were extracted from 20 frozen ESFT specimens to ascertain the state activation of KIT, PDGFRα, and PDGFRβ.

RESULTS.

No mutations were found, whereas the cognate ligands were detected in all cases by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The expression and activation of KIT, PDGFRα, and PDGFRβ were confirmed by quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunoprecipitation and/or Western blot analysis. In particular, when compared with a protein pool obtained from normal adult tissues, PDGFRβ showed a greater protein expression and/or a stronger phosphorylation signal.

CONCLUSIONS.

The results are consistent with an autocrine/paracrine loop activation of the KIT, PDGFRα, and PDGFRβ receptors and suggest a rationale for the use of RTK inhibitors, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Stress analysis on stentless quadrileaflet pericardial mitral valve
Authors: Kuai Xingcheng , Zhang Jing , Ren Biqiao , Liu Feng , Gong Guangfu , Zeng Yanjun
Published: March 2007

The finite‐element method (FEM) has become an applicable method to analyse the stress distribution of bioprosthetic valves. However, most of the stress analyses performed in the past have been on bioprosthetic aortic valves. No public reports are available on the numerical simulation of stress analysis for stentless quadrileaflet pericardial mitral valves up to date. This study applied FEM to investigate the mechanical behaviours of a modified stentless quadrileaflet pericardial mitral valve. The finite‐element model includes the material non‐linearity, large deformation and the contact condition of leaflets. The results showed that the deformed shapes of valve in the numerical simulation are quite similar to ones observed in the hydrodynamic experiment in vitro, the stress distribution is relatively uniform and the magnitudes of stresses are in a reasonable range. It can be concluded that the finite‐element model in this paper is reasonable and feasible, and the numerical results can be used to evaluate the biomechanical performance of this valve. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time course analysis of gene expression during light‐induced photoreceptor cell death and regeneration in albino zebrafish
Authors: Kassen Sean C. , Ramanan Vijay , Montgomery Jacob E. , T. Burket Christopher , Liu Chang‐Gong , Vihtelic Thomas S. , Hyde David R.
Published: March 2007

Constant intense light causes apoptosis of rod and cone photoreceptors in adult albino zebrafish. The photoreceptors subsequently regenerate from proliferating inner nuclear layer (INL) progenitor cells that migrate to the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and differentiate into rods and cones. To identify gene expression changes during this photoreceptor regeneration response, a microarray analysis was performed at five time points during the light treatment. The time course included an early time point during photoreceptor death (16 h), later time points during progenitor cell proliferation and migration (31, 51, and 68 h) and a 96 h time point, which likely corresponds to the initial photoreceptor differentiation. Mean expression values for each gene were calculated at each time point relative to the control (0 h light exposure) and statistical analysis by one‐way ANOVA identified 4567 genes exhibiting significant changes in gene expression along the time course. The genes within this data set were clustered based on their temporal expression patterns and proposed functions. Quantitative real‐time PCR validated the microarray expression profiles for selected genes, including stat3 whose expression increased markedly during the light exposure. Based on immunoblots, both total and activated Stat3 protein expression also increased during the light treatment. Immunolocalization of Stat3 on retinal tissue sections demonstrated increased expression in photoreceptors and Müller glia by 16 h of light exposure. Some of the Stat3‐positive Müller cells expressed PCNA at 31 h, suggesting that Stat3 may play a role in signaling a subset of Müller cells to proliferate during the regeneration response. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2007.
Kidney development and gene expression in the HIF2α knockout mouse
Authors: Steenhard Brooke M. , Freeburg Paul B. , Isom Kathryn , Stroganova Larysa , Borza Dorin‐Bogdan , Hudson Billy G. , St. John Patricia L. , Zelenchuk Adrian , Abrahamson Dale R.
Published: March 2007

The hypoxia‐inducible transcription factor‐2 (HIF2), a heterodimer composed of HIF2α and HIF1β subunits, drives expression of genes essential for vascularization, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2, Flk‐1). Here, we used a HIF2α/LacZ transgenic mouse to define patterns of HIF2α transcription during kidney development and maturation. Our results from embryonic heterozygotes showed HIF2α/LacZ expression by apparently all renal endothelial cells. At 4 weeks of age, glomerular mesangial and vascular smooth muscle cells were also positive together with endothelial cells. These expression patterns were confirmed by electron microscopy using Bluo‐gal as a β‐galactosidase substrate. Small numbers of glomerular and tubular epithelial cells were also positive at all stages examined. Light and electron microscopic examination of kidneys from HIF2α null embryos showed no defects in renal vascular development or nephrogenesis. Similarly, the same amounts of Flk‐1 protein were seen on Western blots of kidney extracts from homozygous and heterozygous HIF2α mutants. To examine responsiveness of HIF2α null kidneys to hypoxia, embryonic day 13.5 metanephroi were cultured in room air or in mild (5% O2) hypoxia. For both heterozygous and null samples, VEGF mRNA levels doubled when metanephroi were cultured in mild hypoxia. Anterior chamber grafts of embryonic HIF2α knockouts were morphologically indistinguishable from heterozygous grafts. Endothelial markers, platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule and BsLB4, as well as glomerular epithelial markers, GLEPP1 and WT‐1, were all expressed appropriately. Finally, we undertook quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction of kidneys from HIF2α null embryos and wild‐type siblings and found no compensatory up‐regulation of HIF1α or ‐3α. Our results show that, although HIF2α was widely transcribed by kidney endothelium and vascular smooth muscle, knockouts displayed no detectable deficits in vessel development or VEGF or Flk‐1 expression. Developmental Dynamics 236:1115–1125, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Highly Organosoluble Metal‐Free Phthalocyanines and Metallophthalocyanines: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Bilgin Ahmet , Ertem Beytullah , Gök Yaşar
Published: March 2007

The syntheses and characterization of metal‐free and metal‐containing (Zn and Ni) derivatives of a symmetrically octa‐substituted phthalocyanine derived from 4,5:12,13‐bis(4′‐tert‐butylbenzo)‐8,9‐(4″,5″‐dicyanobenzo)‐6,11‐ditosyl‐6,11‐diaza‐2,15‐dithiacyclohexadeca‐4,8,12‐triene and CuPc from 4,5:12,13‐bis(4′‐tert‐butylbenzo)‐8,9‐(4″,5″‐dibromobenzo)‐6,11‐ditosyl‐6,11‐diaza‐2,15‐dithiacyclohexadeca‐4,8,12‐triene were carried out. Pentanuclear silver(I) and palladium(II) complexes have also been prepared from nickel(II) phthalocyaninate derivatives. The prepared phthalocyanines were semiconducting materials in the range of 10–5 to10–10 S cm–1 in vacuo and under atmospheric pressure. The extraction abilities of NiPc and detosylated phthalocyanines were evaluated in chloroform/water by using several heavy‐metal picrates such as Ag+, Cd2+, Cu2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, Pd2+, and Zn2+. The extraction affinities of NiPc and detosylated phthalocyanines for Ag+ were found to be the highest in solvent extraction experiments. The new compounds were characterized by using elemental analysis, UV/Vis, FTIR, NMR, MS spectroscopic data and DTA/TG. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
m‐Terphenylaluminum and ‐gallium Compounds: Synthesis and Conversion into Low‐Coordinate Organogallium Cations
Authors: Young Jackie D. , Khan Masood A. , Powell Douglas R. , Wehmschulte Rudolf J.
Published: March 2007

The reaction of two or 3 equiv. of m‐terphenyllithium with MCl3 or AlH3·NMe3 (M = Al, Ga) affords the bis(terphenyl)aluminum and ‐gallium chloride compounds [{2,6‐(4‐tBuC6H4)2C6H3}2GaCl] (1), [{2,6‐(3,5‐Me2C6H3)2C6H3}2GaCl] (2), [{2,6‐(4‐tBuC6H4)2C6H3}3Ga] (3), [(2,6‐Mes2C6H3)2AlCl] (5), and [(2,6‐Mes2C6H3)2AlH] (7; Mes = 2,4,6‐Me3C6H2). While the gallium compounds can be obtained at room temperature, heating is required for the aluminum derivatives. The dibutyl compounds [(2,6‐Mes2C6H3)GaBu2] (8) and[(2,6‐Dipp2C6H3)GaBu2] (9; Dipp = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3) have also been synthesized by the reaction of m‐terphenyllithium with ClGaBu2. A metathesis reaction of 2 with Li[Al{OCH(CF3)2}4] gives the ionic species [(2,6‐Mes2C6H3)2Ga]+[Li{Al[OCH(CF3)2]4}2]– (11). The cationic butyl(terphenyl)gallium compounds [(2,6‐Mes2C6H3)GaBu]+ ([13]+) and [(2,6‐Dipp2C6H3)GaBu]+ ([14]+) have been prepared by butanide abstraction with the trityl salts of the weakly coordinating anions [B(C6F5)4]–, [CHB11Br6Me5]–, and [CHB11Cl11]–. These ionic species are stable at room temperature for days or weeks, although their combinations with the borate anion [B(C6F5)4]– suffer from C6F5 migration, which is slow at room temperature and faster at elevated temperatures. The compound [14]+[CHB11Cl11]– is stable at 70 °C for at least 23 h. Addition of 1‐octene to a solution of [14]+[CHB11Cl11]– in C6D6 results in olefin exchange and formation of the octyl species [(2,6‐Dipp2C6H3)Ga(octyl)]+ ([17]+), and a slow alkylation of the solvent to afford various octylbenzenes. Hydrolysis of 8 and [13]+[CHB11Br6Me5]– gives the compounds [{(2,6‐Mes2C6H3)GaBu(μ‐OH)}2] (10) and [(BuGa)4(μ‐OH)6]2+[CHB11Br6Me5]–2 (16). All compounds have been characterized by 1H and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, and compounds 3, 5, 7, 10, and 16·4.5C6H6 have also been characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Characterization of Coordination Compounds by Electrochemical Parameters
Authors: Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: March 2007

Attention is drawn to the interest in the use of the redox potential for the characterization and identification of coordination compounds on the basis of redox potential‐structure relationships that define electrochemical parameters, which are shown for a wide variety of ligands and metal sites. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)