bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemiluminescent and bioluminescent assays as innovative prospects for mycotoxin determination in food and feed
Authors: Sarter Samira , Zakhia Nadine
Published: November 2004

Mycotoxin contamination of food and feedstuffs is among the top priorities for human and animal safety. The currently used techniques for mycotoxin determination, either chromatography or ELISA, are unsuitable for routine in‐ﬁeld assessment. There is an urgent need for other accurate, simple and cost‐effective techniques that can be used as a screening tool for a rapid estimation of mycotoxin contamination in commodity lots. This paper reviews the literature on the use of chemiluminescence (CL) and bioluminescence (BL) assays for direct or indirect mycotoxin assessment. The chemiluminescence immunoassays, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence and bioassays are reviewed and their advantages and limitations discussed. These techniques used in food testing and the pharmaceutical industry offer promise as rapid techniques for mycotoxin determination. Chemiluminescence and bioluminescence bioassays are the most innovative alternatives to the conventional techniques used for mycotoxin determination in food and feed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Binding of histone H1 to DNA is described by an allosteric model
Authors: Mamoon Naila M. , Song Yuguang , Wellman Susan E.
Published: November 2004

Equilibrium binding data were analyzed to characterize the interaction of the linker histone H1° with unmodified T4 phage DNA. Data were cast into the Scatchard‐type plot described by McGhee and von Hippel and fit to their eponymous model for nonspecific binding of ligand to DNA. The data were not fit by the simple McGhee–von Hippel model, nor fit satisfactorily by the inclusion of a cooperativity parameter. Instead, the interaction appeared to be well described by Crothers' allosteric model, in which the higher affinity of the protein for one conformational form of the DNA drives an allosteric transition of the DNA to the conformational form with higher affinity (form 2). At 214 mM Na+, the observed affinity K for an isolated site on unmodified T4 bacteriophage DNA in the form 2 conformation is 4.5 × 107 M−1. The binding constant for an isolated site on DNA in the conformation with lower affinity, form 1, appears to be about 10‐fold lower. Binding affinity is dependent on ion concentration: the magnitude of K is about 10‐fold higher at 14 mM (5.9 × 108 M−1 for form 2 DNA) than at 214 mM Na+ concentration. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers, 2005
Quaternary Strontium Copper(I) Lanthanoid(III) Selenides with Cerium and Praseodymium: SrCuCeSe3 and SrCuPrSe3, Unequal Brother and Sister.
Authors: Strobel Sabine , Schleid Thomas
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Lithium Beryllium Deuteride Li2BeD4.
Authors: Bulychev Boris M. , Shpanchenko Roman V. , Antipov Evgeny V. , Sheptyakov Denis V. , Bushmeleva Svetlana N. , Balagurov Anatoly M.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis, Structure and Properties of a Double Potassium—Yttrium Vanadate.
Authors: Bobylev Alexander P. , Boubentsova Margarita N. , Komissarova Lidiya N. , Ogorodova Lyubov P. , Spiridonov Felix M.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
One‐Pot Synthesis of 1,3‐Dinitroalkanes under Heterogeneous Catalysis.
Authors: Ballini Roberto , Bosica Giovanna , Fiorini Dennis , Palmieri Alessandro
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
o‐Phenylenediamine as a New Catalyst in the Highly Regioselective Conversion of Epoxides to Halohydrins with Elemental Halogens.
Authors: Eshghi Hossein , Tayyari Sayyed Faramarz , Sanchuli Esmaiel
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
The (Schiff Base)vanadium(V) Complex Catalyzed Oxidation of Bromide — A New Method for the in situ Generation of Bromine and Its Application in the Synthesis of Functionalized Cyclic Ethers.
Authors: Greb Marco , Hartung Jens , Koehler Franz , Spehar Kristina , Kluge Ralph , Csuk Rene
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Copper—Diamine‐Catalyzed N‐Arylation of Pyrroles, Pyrazoles, Indazoles, Imidazoles, and Triazoles.
Authors: Antilla Jon C. , Baskin Jeremy M. , Barder Timothy E. , Buchwald Stephen L.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Palladium‐Phosphinous Acid‐Catalyzed Sonogashira Cross‐Coupling Reactions in Water.
Authors: Wolf Christian , Lerebours Rachel
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
One‐Step C=N, C=O Bonds Cleavage and C=O, C=N Bonds Formation over Supported Ionic Liquid in Water.
Authors: Li Dongmei , Shi Feng , Deng Youquan
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
An Improved Procedure for the Etherification of α‐Hydroxy Acid Derivatives.
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Ramachandran Uma
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Access to Diversely α‐Substituted Cyclopentenones from α‐Chlorocyclopentenones.
Authors: Giannini Audrey , Coquerel Yoann , Greene Andrew E. , Depres Jean‐Pierre
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Efficient Synthesis of α,β‐Epoxy Carbonyl Compounds in Acetonitrile: Darzens Condensation of Aromatic Aldehydes with Ethyl Chloroacetate.
Authors: Wang Zong‐Ting , Xu Li‐Wen , Xia Chun‐Gu , Wang Han‐Qing
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
An Efficient Preparation of Novel 5‐Fluoropyrazolin‐3‐one Derivatives from α‐Trifluoromethylated α‐Arylacetates.
Authors: Park No Kyun , Kim Bum Tae , Moon Surk Sik , Jeon Sung Lan , Jeong In Howa
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis of Some Halogen‐ and Nitro‐Substituted Nicotinic Acids and Their Fragmentation under Electron Impact.
Authors: Dyadyuchenko L. V. , Strelkov V. D. , Mikhailichenko S. N. , Zaplishny V. N.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Rotamerism of 9,10‐Diaryl‐Substituted 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10‐Decahydroacridine‐1,8‐diones.
Authors: Chebanov V. A. , Saraev V. E. , Kobzar K. M. , Desenko S. M. , Orlov V. D. , Gura E. A.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
[3 + 2] Cycloaddition of Dimethyl Acetylenedicarboxylate, Methyl Acrylate, and Ethyl Acrylate to 4,5‐Dihydro‐5‐methyl‐3H‐spiro[benz‐2‐azepine‐3,1′‐cyclohexane] N‐Oxide.
Authors: Varlamov A. V. , Chernyshev A. I. , Zubkov F. I. , Turchin K. F. , Levov A. N.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Triterpenoid Saponins from the Roots of Sophora koreensis.
Authors: Byun Ji Hye , Kim Ju Sun , Kang Sam Sik , Son Kun Ho , Chang Hyeun Wook , Kim Hyun Pyo , Bae KiHwan
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Three Novel Crustulinol Esters, Saponaceols A—C, from Tricholoma saponaceum.
Authors: Yoshikawa Kazuko , Kuroboshi Mina , Ahagon Seiko , Arihara Shigenobu
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Application of 1,1,3,3‐Tetramethylguanidine in the Reaction of Amino Acids with Pantolactone.
Authors: Wlostowski Marek , Rowicki Tomasz , Synoradzki Ludwik
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Magnetic Properties of Graphite and Graphitic Carbons
Authors: Flandrois Serge
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Exploiting the Synergy Between Coordination Chemistry and Molecular Imprinting in the Quest for New Catalysts.
Authors: Becker Jennifer J. , Gagne Michel R.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
The Baeyer—Villiger Reaction: New Developments Toward Greener Procedures
Authors: ten Brink G.‐J. , Arends I. W. C. E. , Sheldon R. A.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Recent New Developments on the Michael Addition of Sulfur and Selenium Nucleophiles
Authors: Kamimura Akio
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Cocaine Pharmacology and Current Pharmacotherapies for Its Abuse
Authors: Carrera M. Rocio A. , Meijler Michael M. , Janda Kim D.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
2‐Oxazolines
Authors: Wong George S. K. , Wu Wenxue
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
2(3H)‐Oxazolones and 2(5H)‐Oxazolones
Authors: Kunieda Takehisa , Matsunaga Hirofumi
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Production and Application of Synthetic Precursors Labeled with Carbon‐11 and Fluorine‐18
Authors: Ferrieri Richard A.
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Magnesium in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Inoue Atsushi , Oshima Koichiro
Published: November 2004

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Retrograde double‐labeling study of common afferent projections to the dorsal raphe and the nuclear core of the locus coeruleus in the rat
Authors: Lee Hyun S. , Kim Myung‐A , Waterhouse Barry D.
Published: November 2004

Common afferent projections to the dorsal raphe (DR) and locus coeruleus (LC) nuclei were analyzed in the rat by making paired injections of retrograde tracers, gold‐conjugated and inactivated wheatgerm agglutinin‐horseradish peroxidase (WGA‐apo‐HRP‐gold) and Fluorogold (FG), into the DR and the nuclear core of the LC. Our results demonstrate that the largest number of double‐labeled neurons was located at various preoptic regions including medial preoptic area, lateral preoptic nucleus, and ventrolateral preoptic nucleus. The majority of labeled cells were also observed at the lateral hypothalamus, where the number of labeled cells was comparable to that of neurons at the medial preoptic area or lateral preoptic nucleus. A few double‐labeled cells were observed at various hypothalamic regions including anterior, medial tuberal, posterior, and arcuate nuclei, as well as mesencephalic areas including substantia nigra compacta and ventrolateral/lateral periaqueductal gray matter. Cells were also observed at prelimbic/infralimbic prefrontal cortices, diagonal band of Broca, bed nucleus of stria terminalis, and pontine/medullary regions including various raphe nuclei, Barrington's nucleus, gigantocellularis, paragigantocellularis, prepositus hypoglossi, subcoeruleus, and dorsomedial tegmental area. Although electrophysiological studies need to be performed, a large number of double‐labeled neurons located at preoptic regions as well as lateral hypothalamus might have their major role in simultaneous control over these monoaminergic nuclei as a means of influencing various sleep and arousal states of the animal. Double‐labeled cells at the other locations might be positioned to influence a variety of other functions such as analgesia, cognition, and stress responses. J. Comp. Neurol. 481:179–193, 2005. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Activation of the parabrachio‐amygdaloid pathway by immune challenge or spinal nociceptive input: A quantitative study in the rat using Fos immunohistochemistry and retrograde tract tracing
Authors: Richard Sabine , Engblom David , Paues Jakob , Mackerlova Ludmila , Blomqvist Anders
Published: November 2004

Peripheral nociceptive stimulation results in activation of neurons in the pontine parabrachial nucleus (PB) of rats. Electrophysiological studies have suggested that noxiously activated PB neurons project to the amygdala, constituting a potential pathway for emotional aspects of pain. In the present study we examined this hypothesis by combining retrograde tract tracing with Fos immunohistochemistry. Cholera toxin subunit B was injected into the amygdala of rats. After a minimum of 48 hours the rats were given a subcutaneous injection of 100 μl of 5% formalin into one hindpaw and killed 60–90 minutes later. A dense aggregation of retrogradely labeled neurons was seen in the external lateral PB. Fos‐expressing neurons were present preferentially in the central, dorsal, and superior lateral subnuclei as well as in the lateral crescent area, as described previously. There was little overlap between the retrogradely labeled and Fos‐expressing populations and double‐labeled neurons were rare. In contrast, systemic immune challenge by intravenous injection of bacterial wall lipopolysaccharide resulted in a Fos expression that overlapped the retrograde labeling in the external lateral PB, and many double‐labeled neurons were seen. While these data provide direct functional anatomical evidence that nociceptive information from the hindlimb is relayed to the amygdala via the parabrachial nucleus, the number of parabrachio‐amygdaloid neurons involved is small. Considering the widespread activation of parabrachio‐amygdaloid neurons by a variety of visceral and humoral stimuli, the parabrachio‐amygdaloid pathway thus appears to be more involved in the mediation of information related to viscerally and humorally elicited activity than in transmission of spinal nociceptive inputs. J. Comp. Neurol. 481:210–219, 2005. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
[Ge9O14(OH)12](C6N2H16)2·H2O: A Novel Germanate with Ge−O Helical Chains Formed by Hydrothermal Synthesis that Can Separate trans and cis Isomers in Situ
Authors: Xu Yan , Fan Wei , Elangovan S. P. , Ogura Masaru , Okubo Tatsuya
Published: November 2004

A novel germanate [Ge9O14(OH)12](C6N2H16)2·H2O (1; UTM‐4) has been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions and its structure characterized by X‐ray crystallography [a = 9.293(2), b = 12.164(2), c = 14.564(3) Å, β = 94.96(3)°, V = 1640.1(6) Å3, Z = 2, monoclinic, space group P21/c]. The structure consists of Ge−O layers of helical chains, which are linked by hydrogen bonds to form a soft, open framework that exhibits a selectivity for cis‐1,4‐diaminocyclohexane during the synthesis. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
Cover Picture: Electronic Structure of High‐Spin Iron(IV) Complexes (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 23/2004)
Authors: Ghosh Abhik , Tangen Espen , Ryeng Hege , Taylor Peter R.
Published: November 2004

The cover picture shows DFT‐optimized models of a nonheme high‐spin iron(IV)−oxo intermediate and of Collins′ stable high‐spin FeIV complex. A. Ghosh, P. R. Taylor and co‐workers show in their article on p. 4555 ff. that these species, although both are high‐spin FeIV, exhibit radically different electronic configurations and spin density profiles (green). Moreover, the authors present some of the first high‐level ab initio calculations aimed at benchmarking the triplet‐quintet energy difference for FeIV species.
Aspects of the Chemical Degradation of PFSA Ionomers used in PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Healy J. , Hayden C. , Xie T. , Olson K. , Waldo R. , Brundage M. , Gasteiger H. , Abbott J.
Published: November 2004

The chemical degradation of perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes was studied both in‐situ (during fuel cell operation) and ex‐situ (by Fenton's test). During fuel cell operation, the degradation rate was quantified by monitoring the rate of fluoride release. The rate of degradation was found to be strongly dependent on operating conditions. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS) were used to identify degradation products other than fluoride generated during fuel cell operation. Strong similarities were found between the organic fragments generated from both the in‐situ (fuel cell operation) and ex‐situ (Fenton's test) degradation processes. The chemical structure of the fragment is consistent with that of the side chain on the PFSA ionomer used in the experiments. The implications of the existence of this product for the chemical degradation mechanism are discussed.
Relationship Between Methanol Permeability and Structure of Different Radiation‐Grafted Membranes
Authors: Kallio T. , Kisko K. , Kontturi K. , Serimaa R. , Sundholm F. , Sundholm G.
Published: November 2004

Styrene grafted and sulfonated poly(vinylidene fluoride) and poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) films are candidates as electrolytes in direct methanol fuel cells. Their behaviour in water, 1 and 3 mol dm–3 aqueous methanol, and pure methanol were studied. According to SAXS results, water and methanol‐water solutions have similar effects on the membranes, i.e., the lamellar period increases and the ionic domains enlarge. Furthermore, differences in the ionic domain structures in pure methanol and water were observed. These structural changes together with dissimilar liquid uptakes in water and in methanol are reflected as changes in the conductivities. An increase in the SAXS intensity and changes in the Bragg distance of the ionic peak were observed in methanol compared to aqueous solutions. This may be related to the hydrophobicity of the CH3 group on methanol. Dissimilarities in methanol permeability through the radiation‐grafted membrane can be related to structural differences in membranes observed with SAXS. Permeabilities were observed to be lower for the radiation‐grafted membranes compared to Nafion® 115, which compensates for the higher area resistance of the experimental membranes and thus improves their performance in a fuel cell.
Effect of salinity on expression of branchial ion transporters in striped bass (Morone saxatilis)
Authors: Tipsmark Christian Kølbæk , Madsen STEFFEN Søndergaard , Borski Russell John
Published: November 2004

The time course of osmoregulatory adjustments and expressional changes of three key ion transporters in the gill were investigated in the striped bass during salinity acclimations. In three experiments, fish were transferred from fresh water (FW) to seawater (SW), from SW to FW, and from 15‐ppt brackish water (BW) to either FW or SW, respectively. Each transfer induced minor deflections in serum [Na+] and muscle water content, both being corrected rapidly (24 hr). Transfer from FW to SW increased gill Na+,K+‐ATPase activity and Na+,K+,2Cl− co‐transporter expression after 3 days. Abundance of Na+,K+‐ATPase α‐subunit mRNA and protein was unchanged. Changes in Na+,K+,2Cl− co‐transporter protein were preceded by increased mRNA expression after 24 hr. Expression of V‐type H+‐ATPase mRNA decreased after 3 days. Transfer from SW to FW induced no change in expression of gill Na+,K+‐ATPase. However, Na+,K+,2Cl− co‐transporter mRNA and protein levels decreased after 24 hr and 7 days, respectively. Expression of H+‐ATPase mRNA increased in response to FW after 7 days. In BW fish transferred to FW and SW, gill Na+,K+‐ATPase activity was stimulated by both challenges, suggesting both a hyper‐ and a hypo‐osmoregulatory response of the enzyme. Acclimation of striped bass to SW occurs on a rapid time scale. This seems partly to rely on the relative high abundance of gill Na+,K+‐ATPase and Na+,K+,2Cl− co‐transporter in FW fish. In a separate study, we found a smaller response to SW in expression of these ion transport proteins in striped bass when compared with the less euryhaline brown trout. In both FW and SW, NEM‐sensitive gill H+‐ATPase activity was negligible in striped bass and ∼10‐fold higher in brown trout. This suggests that in striped bass Na+‐uptake in FW may rely more on a relatively high abundance/activity of Na+,K+‐ATPase compared to trout, where H+‐ATPase is critical for establishing a thermodynamically favorable gradient for Na+‐uptake. J. Exp. Zool. 301A:979–991, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genital structures in the entelegyne widow spider Latrodectus revivensis (Arachnida; Araneae; Theridiidae) indicate a low ability for cryptic female choice by sperm manipulation
Authors: Berendonck Bettina , Greven Hartmut
Published: November 2004

The female genital structures of the entelegyne spider Latrodectus revivensis are described using semithin sections and scanning electron microscopy. Apart from the tactile hairs overhanging the opening of the atrium, the contact zones of the female epigynum are devoid of any sensilla, indicating that the female does not discriminate in favor or against males due to their genital size or stimulation through copulatory courtship. The dumb‐bell shape and the spatial separation of the entrance and the exit of the paired spermathecae suggest that they are functionally of the conduit type. Not described for other entelegyne spiders so far, the small fertilization ducts originating from the spermathecae of each side lead to a common fertilization duct that connects the spermathecae to the uterus externus. During oviposition, it is most likely that spermatozoa are indiscriminately sucked out of the spermathecal lumina by the low pressure produced by the contraction of the muscle extending from the epigynal plate to the common fertilization duct. As no greater amounts of secretion are produced by the female during oviposition, and no activated sperm are present within the female genital tract, the secretion produced by the spermathecal epithelium does not serve in displacement or (selective) activation of spermatozoa. These findings suggest that female L. revivensis are not able to exert cryptic female choice by selectively choosing spermatozoa of certain males. J. Morphol. 263:118–132, 2005. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
NAD+ as a metabolic link between DNA damage and cell death
Authors: Ying Weihai , Alano Conrad C. , Garnier Philippe , Swanson Raymond A.
Published: November 2004

DNA damage occurs in ischemia, excitotoxicity, inflammation, and other disorders that affect the central nervous system (CNS). Extensive DNA damage triggers cell death and in the mature CNS, this occurs primarily through activation of the poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1 (PARP‐1) cell death pathway. PARP‐1 is an abundant nuclear enzyme that, when activated by DNA damage, consumes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+ to form poly(ADP‐ribose) on acceptor proteins. The mechanisms by which PARP‐1 activation leads to cell death are not understood fully. We used mouse astrocyte cultures to explore the bioenergetic effects of NAD+ depletion by PARP‐1 and the role of NAD+ depletion in this cell death program. PARP‐1 activation was induced by the DNA alkylating agent, N‐methyl‐N′‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine (MNNG), using medium in which glucose was the only exogenous energy substrate. PARP‐1 activation led to a rapid but incomplete depletion of astrocyte NAD+, a near‐complete block in glycolysis, and eventual cell death. Repletion of intracellular NAD+ restored glycolytic function and prevented cell death. The addition of non‐glucose substrates to the medium, pyruvate, glutamate, or glutamine, also prevented astrocyte death after PARP‐1 activation. These studies suggest PARP‐1 activation leads to rapid depletion of the cytosolic but not the mitochondrial NAD+ pool. Depletion of the cytosolic NAD+ pool renders the cells unable to utilize glucose as a metabolic substrate. Under conditions where glucose is the only available metabolic substrate, this leads to cell death. This cell death pathway is particularly germane to brain because glucose is normally the only metabolic substrate that is transported rapidly across the blood–brain barrier. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Towards automation of palynology 2: the use of texture measures and neural network analysis for automated identification of optical images of pollen grains
Authors: LI P. , Treloar W. J. , Flenley J. R. , Empson L.
Published: November 2004

The automation of palynology (the identification and counting of pollen grains and spores) will be a small step for image recognition, but a giant stride for palynology. Here we show the first successful automated identification, with 100% accuracy, of a realistic number of taxa. The technique used involves a neural network classifier applied to surface texture data from light microscope images. A further significance of the technique is that it could be adapted for the identification of a wide range of biological objects, both microscopic and macroscopic. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systems approach to error prevention in medicine
Authors: Wieman Thomas Jeffery , Wieman Eric Andrew
Published: November 2004

Minimization of medical errors is at the core of all clinical medical practices. The first tenet of care is to do no harm. The enormous complexity of modern medical care has made error detection and management extremely difficult. Traditional deterministic methods of solving the “error issue” cannot cope with the huge number of potential errors that are possible. Systems thinking and approach to error reduction provides a different avenue for tackling this challenging dilemma. The intent of this article is to introduce a systems view of medical errors and to explain how it can provide new insights about dealing with massively complex organizations such as the healthcare system. Important features include an understanding of system relationships, sources of error, human components, optimization versus perfection in systems and the interrelationships between human and system processes. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;88:115–121. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Another look at medical error
Authors: Deskin William C. , Hoye Robert E.
Published: November 2004

Medical error continues to be a topic of discussion. Blaming the physician or nurse for error is too simplistic and may serve to blur larger system problems from being identified and addressed. This article considers recent history of assignment of errors from a quality assurance perspective, multiple paths which result in error, reviewing the 1999 Institute of Medicine report and looking beyond the numbers to issues that can only be assigned to systems. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;88:122–129. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Errors in laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Gaar Earl
Published: November 2004

Laparoscopic surgery is the most significant advancement in the field of surgery over the past 15 years. This minimal access approach has been widely embraced and adopted to many common operations. Demonstrated benefits include decreased post‐operative pain, shorter lengths of in‐patient hospitalization, increased patient acceptance, and a more rapid return to gainful employment. With its ever‐growing popularity, it has become fertile ground for civil litigation, ranking along with birth injuries and failure to diagnose cancer. A brief synopsis of the history of its evolution is presented along with general and specific comments concerning potential errors as they relate to specific common operations which are commonly done utilizing this technique. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;88:153–160. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Brain perfusion territory imaging applying oblique‐plane arterial spin labeling with a standard send/receive head coil
Authors: Werner Richard , Alfke Karsten , Schaeffter Tobias , Nabavi Arya , Mehdorn H. Maximilian , Jansen Olav
Published: November 2004

A new method for the selective spin labeling of left‐ or right‐sided supplying arteries of the brain without the need for additional RF coils is demonstrated. A clinical 1.5 T scanner was used. The spatial selectivity of the labeling process is based on the limited coverage of the excitation field of a standard send/receive head coil together with an oblique positioning of the labeling plane. A computer simulation was used to optimize key labeling parameters under the condition of laminar flow. The validity of the computer model results was confirmed by MRI measurements with a flow model. For human studies, a double‐inversion continuous arterial spin labeling (CASL) sequence was modified to allow for arbitrary positioning of the labeling plane. The obtained perfusion‐weighted images showed a clear delineation of the perfusion territories of the selected arteries in the anterior circulation of the brain and good gray/white matter contrast. Magn Reson Med 52:1443–1447, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
4 T actively detunable transmit/receive transverse electromagnetic coil and 4‐channel receive‐only phased array for 1H human brain studies
Authors: Avdievich Nikolai I. , Hetherington Hoby P.
Published: November 2004

The design and construction of a 4 T transverse electromagnetic (TEM) transmit/receive head coil and a four‐channel phased array receive‐only RF system are described. To enable both high‐resolution imaging of the entire brain and high‐resolution spectroscopic imaging, active PIN diode decoupling was used in both the TEM resonator and each surface coil in the array. This configuration allows for both transmission and reception from the volume coil as well as reception from the phased array. The surface coils were decoupled by overlapping the coils and using preamplifier decoupling. Since at high frequencies construction of a lumped element matching quarter wavelength transformer, an important component of the preamplifier decoupling, becomes difficult, a transmission line approach was used. The system was tested and compared to a TEM volume transmit/receive head coil. A four‐ to sixfold improvement in signal‐to‐noise ratio from the sensitive volume of the array was achieved. Magn Reson Med 52:1459–1464, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
POCSENSE: POCS‐based reconstruction for sensitivity encoded magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Samsonov Alexei A. , Kholmovski Eugene G. , Parker Dennis L. , Johnson Chris R.
Published: November 2004

A novel method for iterative reconstruction of images from undersampled MRI data acquired by multiple receiver coil systems is presented. Based on Projection onto Convex Sets (POCS) formalism, the method for SENSitivity Encoded data reconstruction (POCSENSE) can be readily modified to include various linear and nonlinear reconstruction constraints. Such constraints may be beneficial for reconstructing highly and overcritically undersampled data sets to improve image quality. POCSENSE is conceptually simple and numerically efficient and can reconstruct images from data sampled on arbitrary k‐space trajectories. The applicability of POCSENSE for image reconstruction with nonlinear constraining was demonstrated using a wide range of simulated and real MRI data. Magn Reson Med 52:1397–1406, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New approach for correcting distortions in echo planar imaging
Authors: Zeng Huairen , Gatenby J. Christopher , Zhao Yansong , Gore John C.
Published: November 2004

A new method is described that can correct the distortions due to multiple off‐resonance effects in echo planar imaging, including those caused by B0 field inhomogeneities, eddy currents, and gradient waveform imperfections. The proposed method uses a phase encoded acquisition and is as effective as the method of Chen and Wyricz (Chen and Wyricz, Magn Reson Med 1999;41:1206–1213) in correcting for distortions. Unlike Chen and Wyricz's approach, this new method works directly in distorted space and requires fewer scans. It also avoids the difficulties of phase unwrapping inherent in field mapping methods. Results using this new method with phantoms and human head scans at 3.0 T demonstrate the efficacy of the method in correcting distortions in both spin echo echo planar imaging (EPI) and gradient echo EPI. Magn Reson Med 52:1373–1378, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid measurement of pulse wave velocity via multisite flow displacement
Authors: Shao Xianzhi , Fei Ding‐yu , Kraft Kenneth A.
Published: November 2004

A MR method is presented for measuring pulse wave velocity (PWV) and its application to assessing stiffness in the human thoracic aorta. This one‐dimensional (1D) flow displacement method applies a single RF comb excitation to the vessel, followed by an oscillating frequency encoding gradient, each oscillation providing a 1D projection of the vessel, enabling one to track fluid motion. The currently implemented sequence excites nine slices within a 20‐cm length of vessel and has a temporal resolution of 2.03 msec and a total acquisition time of 140 msec. Offline‐reconstructed position‐versus‐time plots show curvilinear flow displacement trajectories corresponding to fluid motion at each of the excitation positions. The PWV can be reliably calculated by curve‐fitting these trajectories to a model. In vitro studies using compliant tubes demonstrate no significant difference between results obtained using this method and those directly obtained using pressure transducers. Compared to another MR method previously developed in our laboratory, the proposed method displays improved temporal resolution and enhanced ability to extract PWV from vessels exhibiting low peak flow velocity. Preliminary data suggest that this method is feasible for in vivo application and may provide a more accurate estimation of aortic wave velocity among subjects exhibiting low peak flow velocity, such as the elderly or those with impaired cardiac function. Magn Reson Med 52:1351–1357, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of arterial spin labeling and first‐pass dynamic contrast‐enhanced MR imaging in the assessment of pulmonary perfusion in humans: The inflow spin‐tracer saturation effect
Authors: Lin Yi‐Ru , Wu Ming‐Ting , Huang Teng‐Yi , Tsai Shang‐Yueh , Chung Hsiao‐Wen , Mai Vu M. , Chen Cheng‐Yu , Pan Huay‐Ben
Published: November 2004

The flow‐sensitive alternating inversion recovery (FAIR) and the first‐pass dynamic contrast‐enhanced MR imaging (CE‐MRI) techniques have both been shown to be effective in the assessment of human pulmonary perfusion. However, no comprehensive comparison of the measurements by these two methods has been reported. In this study, healthy adults were recruited, with FAIR and CE‐MRI performed for an estimation of the relative pulmonary blood flow (rPBF). Regions of interest were encircled from the right and left lungs, with right‐to‐left rPBF ratios calculated. Results indicated that, on posterior coronal slices, the rPBF ratios obtained with the FAIR technique agreed well with CE‐MRI measurements (mean difference = −0.02, intraclass correlation coefficient RI = 0.78, 95% confidence interval = [0.67, 0.86]). On middle coronal slices, however, FAIR showed a substantially lower rPBF by up to 43% in the right lung compared with CE‐MRI (mean difference = −0.38, RI = 0.34, 95% confidence interval = [−0.09, 0.68]). The location‐dependent discrepancy between measurements by FAIR and CE‐MRI methods is attributed to tracer saturation effects of arterial inflow when the middle coronal slice contains the in‐plane‐oriented right pulmonary artery, whereas the left lung rPBF is less affected due to oblique orientation of the left pulmonary artery. Intrasequence comparison on additional subjects using FAIR at different slice orientations supported the above hypothesis. It is concluded that FAIR imaging for pulmonary perfusion in the coronal plane provides equivalent rPBF information with CE‐MRI only in the absence of tracer saturation effects; hence, FAIR should be carefully exercised to avoid misleading interpretations. Magn Reson Med 52:1291–1301, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Experience with chemoreduction and focal therapy for intraocular retinoblastoma in a developing country
Authors: Chantada Guillermo L. , Fandiño Adriana C. , Raslawski Elsa C. , Manzitti Julio , de Dávila Maria T.G. , Casak Sandra J. , Scopinaro Marcelo J. , Schvartzman Enrique
Published: November 2004

Background

Chemoreduction is used for the treatment of retinoblastoma in industrialized nations; however, there are fewer data from developing countries. Before the implementation of this program, radiotherapy was used in almost all preserved eyes.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation from 1995 to 2001 at the Hospital Garrahan (Argentina). Carboplatin 18.7 mg/kg/day 1 and vincristine (0.05 mg/kg/day 1) were offered to patients with Reese–Ellsworth (RE) groups I–III and all unilateral cases. Etoposide (3.3 mg/kg/day 1 and 2) was added for groups IV and V. The number of cycles was tailored according to response.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients (78 eyes) were evaluated (39 bilateral, 19 unilateral). With a median follow‐up of 47 months, 40 patients had unilateral enucleation, 14 were not enucleated, and 4 had bilateral enucleation. Nineteen patients had unilateral initial enucleation. Eye preservation at 5 years was: RE groups I–III (n = 24 eyes), 0.9 (SE: 0.095) IV–V (n = 54), 0.45 (SE 0.07). Patients received a median of four cycles of chemotherapy. Acute toxicity was mild. External beam radiotherapy was avoided in 41% of eyes with groups I–III. Etoposide was avoided in 24 patients. Two patients died of metastasis. No secondary malignancy occurred.

Conclusions

Compared to our previous experience, eye preservation was better and even though less radiotherapy was used, it was prescribed more often than currently recommended in eyes with less advanced disease because of limited availability of sophisticated local therapy. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interaction interfaces of protein domains are not topologically equivalent across families within superfamilies: Implications for metabolic and signaling pathways
Authors: Rekha N. , Machado S.M. , Narayanan C. , Krupa A. , Srinivasan N.
Published: November 2004

Using a data set of aligned protein domain superfamilies of known three‐dimensional structure, we compared the location of interdomain interfaces on the tertiary folds between members of distantly related protein domain superfamilies. The data set analyzed is comprised of interdomain interfaces, with domains occurring within a polypeptide chain and those between two polypeptide chains. We observe that, in general, the interfaces between protein domains are formed entirely in different locations on the tertiary folds in such pairs. This variation in the location of interface happens in protein domains involved in a wide range of functions, such as enzymes, adapters, and domains that bind protein ligands, or cofactors. While basic biochemical functionality is preserved at the domain superfamily level, the effect of biochemical function on protein assemblies is different in these protein domains related by superfamily. The divergence between proteins, in most cases, is coupled with domain recruitment, with different modes of interaction with the recruited domain. This is in complete contrast to the observation that in closely related homologous protein domains, almost always the interaction interfaces are topologically equivalent. In a small subset of interacting domains within proteins related by remote homology, we observe that the relative positioning of domains with respect to one another is preserved. Based on the analysis of multidomain proteins of known or unknown structure, we suggest that variation in protein–protein interactions in members within a superfamily could serve as diverging points in otherwise parallel metabolic or signaling pathways. We discuss a few representative cases of diverging pathways involving domains in a superfamily. Proteins 2005. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dirac equation with a Coulomb plus scalar potential in D + 1 dimensions
Authors: Dong Shi‐Hai , Sun Guo‐Hua , Lozada‐Cassou M.
Published: November 2004

We generalize the Dirac equation to D + 1‐dimensional spacetime. The exact solutions of the D‐dimensional radial equations with a Coulomb plus scalar potential taking the form 1/r are analytically presented by studying the Tricomi equations. The energies E(n, l, D) are exactly presented. The dependences of the energies E(n, l, D) on the dimension D are analyzed in some detail. The energies E(n, 0, D) first decrease and then increase when increasing dimension D, but the energies E(n, l, D) (l ≠ 0) increase when increasing dimension D. The energies E(n, 0, D) are symmetric with respect to D = 1 for D ∈ (0, 2). It is shown that the energies E(n, l, D) (l ≠ 0) are almost independent of the quantum number l for large D and are completely independent of it if the Coulomb potential is equal to the scalar one. The energies E(n, l, D) almost overlap for large D. The dependences of the energies E(n, l, v) and E(n, l, s) on the vector potential parameter v and scalar potential one s are also studied for D = 3. All are found to decrease when these parameters are increased. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Theoretical study of ANTO molecular systems: Causes of insensitivity of the energetic compound NTO
Authors: Liu Min‐Hsien , Chen Cheng , Hong Yaw‐Shun
Published: November 2004

The ANTO molecular system, which comprises the energetic compound 3‐nitro‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5‐one (NTO, with its two lowest‐energy conformers L1 and L2), ammonia (NH3), and water (H2O) molecules, is introduced for a theoretical survey of corresponding geometrical structure and localized bonding character. With the medium (or solvent) of H2O and NH3, three intermolecular hydrogen bonds formed in the NTO + NH3 + H2O system would lower the overall molecular energy and stabilize. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Theoretical study of two C30H20 isomers with a dodecahedrane cage and two pentaprismane cages sharing two pentagons
Authors: Liu Feng‐Ling , Zhao Jian‐Xia , Xie Ying , Dai Lian‐Hua
Published: November 2004

Structures, energies, and vibrational frequencies have been calculated for two C30H20 isomers with a dodecahedrane cage and two pentaprismane cages at the B3LYP/6‐31G* level of theory. Thus, two C30H20 isomers have the form of coplanar tri‐cage molecules. The symmetry of one C30H20 isomer is of D5d and that of another is of C2V. The heat of formation for two C30H20 isomers have been estimated. Heats of formation of two C30H20 isomers as well as the vibrational analysis indicate that two C30H20 isomers enjoy sufficient stability to allow for its experimental preparation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Longitudinal NLO properties of C2H2, HCCF, and C2F2: Electron correlation and vibration effects
Authors: Medveď Miroslav , Noga Jozef , Jacquemin Denis , Perpète Eric A.
Published: November 2004

Electron correlation and vibration effects on longitudinal nonlinear optical properties of acetylene (C2H2), fluoroacetylene (HCCF), and difluoroacetylene (C2F2) have been studied using various quantum chemistry methods, including the second‐order perturbation theory (MP2); coupled cluster approach with singles, doubles (CCSD), and noniterative triples (CCSD(T)); and density functional methods (B3LYP and B98). Evaluation of the static and dynamic vibration (nuclear relaxation) contributions was based on the finite field relaxation method. Particular attention has been devoted to the assessment of the electron correlation effects on the nuclear relaxation contributions to the molecular properties. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Theoretical study of unimolecular rearrangements of vinylidenes to acetylenes
Authors: Kakkar Rita , Pathak Mallika , Chadha Preeti
Published: November 2004

The rearrangement of vinylidene to acetylene has been studied in detail by the density functional method, using Becke's three‐parameter exchange functional and the gradient‐corrected functional of Lee, Yang, and Parr. The rearrangement of the anion, as well as that of fluoro‐substituted systems, has also been investigated, in order to determine the effect of fluorine substitution on the activation barrier to the 1,2‐hydrogen shift, as well as the relative migratory aptitudes of hydrogen and fluorine. Natural bond orbital analysis is invoked to gain insight into the mechanisms of the rearrangements. Basis size effects are also discussed, particularly in relation to anionic systems. The need to include diffuse functions in geometry optimizations of anionic systems is reinforced by the present calculations. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
A theoretical investigation of the interaction between H, Li, Na, K, and fullerenes
Authors: Santos J. D. , Longo E. , Banja M. E. , Espinoza V. A. A. , Taft C. A.
Published: November 2004

We studied the interaction between H, Li, Na, and K with one and two C60 molecules using unrestricted Hartree–Fock (UHF) methods. We investigated the effects of distances between the doping atoms and the C60 clusters, total charges, interaction energies, stabilities, HOMO‐LUMO energy differences, charge distribution, and potential energy surfaces. The effect of each doping atom was analyzed and potential technological applications discussed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
Pulse function for control of the coherent excitation in stimulated Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Malinovskaya S. A.
Published: November 2004

A selective excitation of closely spaced Raman transitions using femtosecond pulse shaping is studied within a semiclassical approach. An analytical pulse function is proposed having duration T that selectively excites one of two transitions separated by a frequency interval less than 1/T. It is shown that, for intense fields, both the field amplitude and pulse frequency spectrum have to be carefully chosen to achieve the control of excitations. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
The climbing depth of random trees
Authors: Panholzer Alois
Published: November 2004

We study here for certain rooted tree families the number of steps that are necessary to climb a random tree of size n. We give distributional results for this parameter for increasing tree families and unordered unlabeled rooted trees. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2005
Structural accelerated failure time models for the effects of observed exposures on repeated events in a clinical trial
Authors: Vandebosch An , Goetghebeur Els , Van Damme Lut
Published: November 2004

Structural accelerated failure time models form a unique tool for the analysis of causal effects of observed exposures in randomized trials. When actual exposure levels are not completely controlled they may be selective, i.e. depend on unmeasured prognostic factors. Nevertheless, consistent randomization‐based estimators have been derived for the effect of such exposures on a right‐censored survival outcome. In this paper, we extend the methodology to allow for estimation of the structural effect of an experimental vaginal gel on repeated occurrences of genital lesions. The marginal distribution of each ordered event is modelled assuming a common treatment effect. Estimation is possible by inverting α‐level tests using a robust variance estimator to allow for correlated repeated events. We discuss the logical constraints imposed by this model choice as well as new challenges posed on recensoring. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Annual westward propagating anomalies near 26°N and eddy generation south of the Canary Islands: remote sensing (altimeter/SeaWiFS) and in situ measurement
Authors: Pingree Robin , Garcia-Soto Carlos
Published: November 2004

Seasonal changes in altimeter data are derived for the North Atlantic Ocean. Altimeter data are then used to examine annually propagating structure along 26°N. By averaging the altimeter data into monthly values or by Fourier analysis, a positive anomaly can be followed from 17°W to ∼50°W along ∼26°N. The methods give a westward travel speed of 1° of longitude a month and a half-life of one year for the average decaying structure. At ∼50°W 26°N, the average structure is about 2·8 years old with an elevation signal of ∼1 cm, having travelled ∼3300 km westward. The mean positive anomaly results from the formation of anticyclonic eddies which are generally formed annually south of the Canary Islands by late summer and which then travel westward near 26°N. Individual eddy structure along 26°N is examined and related to in situ measurements and anomalies in the annual seasonal concentration cycle of SeaWiFS chlorophyll-a.