Langs DA, Hauptman HA. Direct methods: a paradox with regard to the convergence of random phase trials toward solutions.
Acta Crystallogr A 2011;
67:430-4. [PMID:
21844647 DOI:
10.1107/s0108767311020137]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 05/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
A frustrating observation, based on an R(min) variance analysis within the `shake and bake' framework of direct methods phasing, is described. The variance of R(min) can on occasion identify large subsets of phases that have a significantly lower mean phase error than the entire direct methods phase set of otherwise unsuccessful phasing trials for which the overall phase error occasionally dips below 75 or 80°. This is the first time, other than for a handful of Σ1 phase indications in optimal situations, that a priori phase estimates have been attained for large numbers of E values, prior to solving the structure. Although the a priori variance of R(min) is a useful tool for identifying such phases, the a posteriori phase refinement shifts indicated by its minimum often prevent a successful convergence to the solution. Similar efforts to encourage solution convergences in the realm of real space have also been discouraging.
Collapse