bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical New Strategies for Immobilising Ruthenium Alkylidene Complexes: Part I
Authors: Dragutan By Ileana , Dragutan Valerian
Published: April 2008

The paper critically presents various routes for immobilising ruthenium alkylidene complexes through their ligands. This part (Part I) describes immobilisation via coordinating/actor ligands (phosphane/alkylidene), and established ancillary ligands such as N-heterocyclic carbenes. Other ligands commonly encountered in immobilisation protocols, such as Schiff bases, arenes, anionic ligands and specifically tagged (ionic liquid tag, fluoro tag) substituents will be the topic of Part II. Selected applications of some of these ruthenium complexes in olefin metathesis reactions are highlighted where they are particularly advantageous.
The Periodic Table and the Platinum Group Metals
Authors: Griffith By W. P.
Published: April 2008

The year 2007 marked the centenary of the death of Dmitri Mendeleev (1834–1907). This article discusses how he and some of his predecessors accommodated the platinum group metals (pgms) in the Periodic Table, and it considers the placing of their three transuranic congeners: hassium (
108
Hs), meitnerium (
109
Mt) and darmstadtium (
110
Ds). Over twenty-five years ago McDonald and Hunt () wrote an excellent account of the pgms in their periodic context. This account is indebted to that work. The present article introduces new perspectives and shows some of the relevant tables. There are good books on the history of the Periodic Table, e.g. (, ) and other texts (, ) which provide a fuller picture than it is possible to give here.
Platinum as a Reference Electrode in Electrochemical Measurements
Authors: Kasem By Kasem K. , Jones Stephanie
Published: April 2008

The usefulness of platinum as an electrochemical reference electrode was investigated. Well known redox systems with one-electron single or multiple redox waves, and two-electron multiple redox waves were used as test regimes. The effects on electrode performance of variables such as the solvent, the physical state of the electrolyte and its temperature were investigated. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was used to derive kinetic parameters for comparison with corresponding measurements on traditional reference electrodes. The results indicate that Pt can be used as a reference electrode under specific conditions in which traditional reference electrodes cannot be used.
Equatorial Segment Protein (ESP) Is a Human Alloantigen Involved in Sperm‐Egg Binding and Fusion
Authors: Wolkowicz M. J. , Digilio L. , Klotz K. , Shetty J. , Flickinger C. J. , Herr J. C.
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT: The equatorial segment of the sperm head is known to play a role in fertilization; however, the specific sperm molecules contributing to the integrity of the equatorial segment and in binding and fusion at the oolemma remain incomplete. Moreover, identification of molecular mediators of fertilization that are also immunogenic in humans is predicted to advance both the diagnosis and treatment of immune infertility. We previously reported the cloning of Equatorial Segment Protein (ESP), a protein localized to the equatorial segment of ejaculated human sperm. ESP is a biomarker for a subcompartment of the acrosomal matrix that can be traced through all stages of acrosome biogenesis (Wolkowicz et al, 2003). In the present study, ESP immunoreacted on Western blots with 4 (27%) of 15 antisperm antibody (ASA)–positive serum samples from infertile male patients and 2 (40%) of 5 ASA‐positive female sera. Immunofluorescent studies revealed ESP in the equatorial segment of 89% of acrosome‐reacted sperm. ESP persisted as a defined equatorial segment band on 100% of sperm tightly bound to the oolemma of hamster eggs. Antisera to recombinant human ESP inhibited both oolemmal binding and fusion of human sperm in the hamster egg penetration assay. The results indicate that ESP is a human alloantigen involved in sperm‐egg binding and fusion. Defined recombinant sperm immunogens, such as ESP, may offer opportunities for differential diagnosis of immune infertility.
Cryopreservation of Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta) Epididymal Spermatozoa Before and After Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Dong Qiaoxiang , Rodenburg Sarah E. , Huang Changjiang , Vandevoort Catherine A.
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT: Recently, there has been an increased interest in preservation of epididymal sperm as a potential source of material for genetic resource banking; however, cryopreservation of epididymal sperm from the rhesus monkey has not been explored. This study evaluated the effect of prolonged refrigerated storage of the intact cauda epididymides at various conditions on the postthaw motility of rhesus monkey epididymal spermatozoa, and also tested whether altering cryoprotectants and cooling methods could improve post‐thaw motility for epididymal sperm after refrigerated storage. Motility before freezing decreased significantly after refrigerated storage (0°C) for a period of 24 or 48 hours. Although postthaw motility was not significantly different after 24 hours of refrigerated storage, epididymides stored at a higher temperature (4°C–10°C) yielded better results, but postthaw motility still decreased significantly after 48 hours of refrigerated storage at 4°C. Comparisons of glycerol and ethylene glycol at 3% and 6% revealed similar postthaw motility. However, consistently high postthaw motility was obtained with 3% glycerol throughout all freezing trials regardless of whether samples were collected fresh or after refrigerated storage for 24 or 48 hours. Cooling at a higher rate of 220°C/min was found to yield better postthaw motility than the slower rate of 29°C/min. Thawing time duration was evaluated, and a minimum of 30 seconds was required for thawing 0.25‐mL straws containing 50‐μL semen samples. An overall average of 42% postthaw motility was obtained for rhesus monkey epididymal sperm packed in 3% glycerol and cooled after 24 or 48 hours refrigerated storage. These postthaw motility results for epididymal sperm indicate that this method should be practical for use in preserving epididymal sperm, even if tissue must be shipped from sites remote from the cryopreservation laboratory.
Recent Improvements in the Use of Synthetic Peptides for a Selective Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Schneider Raphael , Tirand Loraine , Frochot Celine , Vanderesse Regis , Thomas Noemie , Gravier Julien , Guillemin Francois , Barberi-Heyob Muriel
Published: April 2008

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a relatively new cytotoxic treatment, predominantly used in anti-cancer approaches, that depends on the retention of photosensitizers in tumor and their activation after light exposure. Photosensitizers are photoactive compounds such as porphyrins and chlorins that upon photoactivation, effect strongly localized oxidative damage within the target cells. The ability to confine activation of the photosensitizer by restricting illumination to the tumor allows for a certain degree of selectivity. Nevertheless, the targeted delivery of photosensitizers to defined cells is a major problem in PDT of cancer, and one area of importance is photosensitizer targeting. Alterations or increased levels in receptor expression of specific cellular type occur in the diseased tissues. Therefore, photosensitizers can be covalently attached to molecules such as peptides, leading to a receptor-mediated targeting strategy. These active-targeting approaches may be particularly useful for anti-vascular PDT. Moreover, it has been shown that the photocytotoxicity of photodynamic drugs could be enhanced by delivering high amounts of a photosensitizer into subcellular organelles such as the nucleus where nucleic acids represent target molecules sensitive to photodamage. The recent progresses in the use of active-targeting strategy with synthetic peptides and the interest of using an activetargeting strategy in PDT, which could allow efficient cellular internalization of photosensitizers, are described in this review.
Anti-Cancer Activities of 1,4-Naphthoquinones: A QSAR Study
Authors: Verma Rajeshwar P.
Published: April 2008

Quinone moieties are present in many drugs such as anthracyclines, daunorubicin, doxorubicin, mitomycin, mitoxantrones and saintopin, which are used clinically in the therapy of solid cancers. The cytotoxic effects of these quinones are mainly due to the following two factors: (i) inhibition of DNA topoisomerase-II and, (ii) formation of semiquinone radical that can transfer an electron to oxygen to produce super oxide, which is catalyzed by flavoenzymes such as NADPH-cytochrome-P-450 reductase. Both semiquinone and super oxide of quinones can generate the hydroxyl radical, which is the cause of DNA strand breaks. 1,4-naphthoquinone contains two quinone groups that have the ability to accept one or two electrons to form the corresponding radical anion or di-anion species. It is probably dependent on the quinone redox cycling that yields "reactive oxygen species" (ROS) as well as arylation reactions, which is common to quinones for biological relevance. In the present review, an attempt has been made to collect the cytotoxicity data on different series of 1,4-naphthoquinones against four different cancer cell lines that are L1210, A549, SNU-1, and K562, which were acquired by using identical method, and has been discussed in terms of QSAR (quantitative structure-activity relationships) to understand the chemical-biological interactions. QSAR results have shown that the cytotoxic activities of 1,4- naphthoquinones depend largely on their hydrophobicity.
NMR Spectroscopy of Anticancer Platinum Drugs
Authors: Vinje Jo , Sletten Einar
Published: April 2008

The focus of this review is on recently published papers (2000-2005) where NMR spectroscopy has been applied as the principal method in the study of anticancer platinum drugs. The paper gives an overview of the basic NMR techniques particularly relevant for studying interaction between platinum compounds and nucleic acid constituents. The latest NMR studies on the well-known anticancer drug cisplatin, with focus on kinetics and cisplatin-DNA structures are reported. Also cisplatin analogues clinically approved or currently in clinical trials are discussed. In addition two new classes of anticancer platinum drugs are described: trans-oriented Pt iminoether complexes and multinuclear Pt complexes. Reaction kinetics and structural changes induced by these novel Pt drugs are discussed in relation to cisplatin. NMR studies of non-DNA platinum drug targets including peptides, proteins and phospholipid membranes are also treated.
In Silico Design of Protein Kinase Inhibitors: Successes and Failures
Authors: Dubinina Galina G. , Chupryna Oleksandr O. , Platonov Maxim O. , Borisko Petro O. , Ostrovska Galina V. , Tolmachov Andriy O. , Shtil Alexander A.
Published: April 2008

Protein kinases are among the most exploited targets in modern drug discovery due to key roles these enzymes play in human diseases including cancer. The in silico approach, an important part of rational design of protein kinase inhibitors, is founded on vast information about 3D structures of these enzymes. This review summarizes general structural features of the kinase inhibitors and the studies applied toward a large scale chemical database for virtual screening. Analyzed are the ways of validating the modern docking tools and their combinations with different scoring functions. In particular, we discuss the kinase flexibility as a reason for failures of the docking procedure. Finally, evidence is provided for the main patterns of kinase-inhibitor interactions and creation of the hinge-region-directed 2D filters.
MRI Contrast Agents: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Strijkers Gustav J. , M. Mulder Willem J. , F. van Tilborg Geralda A. , Nicolay Klaas
Published: April 2008

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is increasingly used in clinical diagnostics, for a rapidly growing number of indications. The MRI technique is non-invasive and can provide information on the anatomy, function and metabolism of tissues in vivo. MRI scans of tissue anatomy and function make use of the two hydrogen atoms in water to generate the image. Apart from differences in the local water content, the basic contrast in the MR image mainly results from regional differences in the intrinsic relaxation times T1 and T2, each of which can be independently chosen to dominate image contrast. However, the intrinsic contrast provided by the water T1 and T2 and changes in their values brought about by tissue pathology are often too limited to enable a sensitive and specific diagnosis. For that reason increasing use is made of MRI contrast agents that alter the image contrast following intravenous injection. The degree and location of the contrast changes provide substantial diagnostic information. Certain contrast agents are predominantly used to shorten the T1 relaxation time and these are mainly based on low-molecular weight chelates of the gadolinium ion (Gd3+). The most widely used T2 shortening agents are based on iron oxide (FeO) particles. Depending on their chemical composition, molecular structure and overall size, the in vivo distribution volume and pharmacokinetic properties vary widely between different contrast agents and these largely determine their use in specific diagnostic tests. This review describes the current status, as well as recent and future developments of MRI contrast agents with focus on applications in oncology. First the basis of MR image contrast and how it is altered by contrast agents will be discussed. After some considerations on bioavailability and pharmacokinetics, specific applications of contrast agents will be presented according to their specific purposes, starting with non-specific contrast agents used in classical contrast enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and dynamic contrast enhanced MRI. Next targeted contrast agents, which are actively directed towards a specific molecular target using an appropriate ligand, functional contrast agents, mainly used for functional brain and heart imaging, smart contrast agents, which generate contrast as a response to a change in their physical environment as a consequence of some biological process, and finally cell labeling agents will be presented. To conclude some future perspectives are discussed.
Interleukin-26, An Epitheliotropic T-Cell Cytokine
Authors: Braum Oliver , Pirzer Heide , Fickenscher Helmut
Published: April 2008

Interleukin-26 (IL-26) belongs to the family of cellular cytokines which share sequence homology with IL-10, however, without functional conservation. The il-26 gene is situated on the human chromosome 12q15 in close neighbourhood to the genes for the related T-cellular cytokines interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and IL-22. il-26 was discovered due to its overexpression in T cells after growth transformation with herpesvirus saimiri. IL-26 is produced by activated T cells, forms homodimers, and acts on epithelial target cells such as colon carcinoma cells or keratinocytes. Presumably due to its positive net charge, IL-26 adheres to glycosaminoglycans on cell surfaces. Stimulation with IL-26 results in the phosphorylation and activation of the transcription factors STAT1 and STAT3 and in the induction of CD54 surface expression and secretion of cytokines such as IL-8 and IL-10. These effects are mediated by an IL-26-specific receptor complex consisting of IL-20R1 and IL-10R2. Thus, IL-26 appears to be a rather proinflammatory and cell-surface associated cytokine linking local T-cell activation with epithelial functions.
Melanoma Differentiation Associated Gene-7 (mda-7)/ Interleukin-24 (IL-24), mda-7/IL-24: Current Perspectives on a Unique Member of the IL-10 Family of Cytokines
Authors: Sarkar Devanand , Dent Paul , Fisher Paul B.
Published: April 2008

Developing effective and safe therapies for cancer continues to be a primary objective of both basic researchers and clinicians. However, despite evidence of progress in treating specific tumors, in many instances, especially in the context of metastasis, no effective therapies are available. A focus of our laboratories is to develop improved cancer therapeutics that exploit differences in signaling pathways and gene expression in tumor versus normal cells. An approach, which we have pioneered, is the use of differentiation therapy combined with subtraction hybridization, DISH (differentiation induction subtraction hybridization), to define genes that are relevant to cancer growth control, differentiation and apoptosis. Application of DISH to human melanoma cells permitted the cloning of melanoma differentiation associated (mda) genes that display elevated expression as a function of induction of terminal differentiation and loss of tumorigenic potential in cancer cells. One mda gene, mda-7, has emerged as a potential therapeutic for cancer because of its unique ability to selectively induce apoptosis in cancer cells, without affecting normal cells. Based on structure, location and properties, mda-7, a cytokine belonging to the IL-10 family, is now designated as IL-24. mda-7/IL-24 exhibits multiple levels of anti-cancer effects that include inhibition of angiogenesis, radiosensitization and potent antitumor bystander activities. As a cytokine it also demonstrates immunostimulatory properties. An adenovirus expressing mda-7/IL- 24, INGN 241, has entered the clinic and been shown to be safe and display significant activity toward solid tumors, including melanoma, in a Phase I clinical trial. We presently provide a brief overview of mda-7/IL-24.
Efficient synthesis of diarylidene octahydroacridines by one-pot multi-component tandem reactions
Authors: Wang Qi-Fang , Yan Chao-Guo
Published: April 2008

A one-pot multi-component reaction is developed for the efficient synthesis of 4,5-dibenzylidene octahydroacridines in high yields. The reaction is performed by the tandem reaction of three molar equivalent aromatic aldehydes with two molar equivalent 4-alkylcyclohexanone in the system of NH4OAc/HOAc under microwave irradiation.
Young syncopal man and decision about permanent cardiac pacing
Authors: Lelonek Malgorzata , Stanczyk Adam , Goch Jan
Published: April 2008

A 20-year old man experienced recurrent syncope, that suggested a partially neutrally-mediated mechanism, but in some cases were without a prodrome. The tilt test was negative. The 12-lead ECG and electrophysiological study showed first-degree AV block. Syncope in bradyarrhythmia was suspected and an implantable loop recorder was indicated. In the first month after implantation the patient experienced one syncopal episode. In the stored ECG, AV junctional rhythm was detected. The patient received a pacemaker and symptoms improved.
The Exploitation of Wavelet De-Noising To Detect Bearing Faults
Authors: Al-Raheem Khalid , Roy Asok , Ramachandran K. , Harrison David , Grainger Steven
Published: April 2008

The Exploitation of Wavelet De-Noising To Detect Bearing Faults

Failure diagnosis is an important component of the Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) activities for most engineering systems. Rolling element bearings are the most common cause of rotating machinery failure. The existence of the amplitude modulation and noises in the faulty bearing vibration signal present challenges to effective fault detection method. The wavelet transform has been widely used in signal de-noising due to its extraordinary time-frequency representation capability. In this paper, we proposed new approach for bearing fault detection based on the autocorrelation of wavelet de-noised vibration signal through a wavelet base function derived from the bearing impulse response. To improve the fault detection process the wavelet parameters (damping factor and center frequency) are optimized using maximization kurtosis criteria to produce wavelet base function with high similarity with the impulses generated by bearing defects, that leads to increase the magnitude of the wavelet coefficients related to the fault impulses and enhance the fault detection process. The results show the effectiveness of the proposed technique to reveal the bearing fault impulses and its periodicity for both simulated and real rolling bearing vibration signals.
Determination of the Risk Function for Survivors Using Beta Pert Method
Authors: Burciu Zbigniew
Published: April 2008

Determination of the Risk Function for Survivors Using Beta Pert Method

In emergency at sea the most important is to start the rescue action as fast as possible, whereas the decision to terminate the action, in case the survivors have not been found, is made by the coordinator on the basis of his practical experience. To estimate the level of risk it is necessary to face the problem of lack of credible statistical data. The paper presents a new concept which allow to calculate the risk, taking into account data uncertainty. The method and probability model are presented and discussed.
Prediction the Bearing Reliability on Basis Diagnostic Information
Authors: Lindstedt Paweł , Sudakowski Tomasz
Published: April 2008

Prediction the Bearing Reliability on Basis Diagnostic Information

The new complex method of diagnostics of helicopter's turbine engine Allison 250 in work was. This method be bases on complex diagnostic signals of resulting with simultaneous use three autonomic methods of diagnosing (functional diagnosing, wibroacustic diagnosing and tribologic diagnosing) and of surroundings described with number of crossings of diagnostic sill timbers of these signals. This way of description permits to establish between diagnostic signals quantitative reports and the surroundings and the state of technical object. It the diagnostics was conducted of arrangement bearings two engines Allison 250 built-up on helicopter PZL - KANIA. It was showed, that captured in this way diagnostic signals can be used to prediction of reliability profiles of arrangement bearings.
One Piece Production Principle Masters Global Market Challenges
Authors: Reichert Gerhard , Duse Dan
Published: April 2008

One Piece Production Principle Masters Global Market Challenges

Successful companies in global markets must be innovative in product development and able to produce their products at lowest possible total cost, while highest quality and product availability in the markets is self evident. They must be able to manage violent market demand- and product design-changes with flexible and agile manufacturing systems [1]. These challenges ask, in the first place, for new strategies in the field of designing appropriate process technologies, production process structures and, as we will show, new methods and considerations for planning and controlling the sequence of product variants within production programs.
Relations Between Safety and Security in Technical Systems
Authors: Smalko Zbigniew
Published: April 2008

Relations Between Safety and Security in Technical Systems

The subject of this paper deals with the relationship between safety and security of the man - machine system. In the above system a man can act both as a decision - maker and operator. His desired psychophysical efficiency lies in the undertaking the correct decisions as well as in the skilful machine control and operating.
Integrated System to Aid Supervisory Process of Technical Device
Authors: Szpytko Janusz , Smoczek Jarosław , Kocerba Artur
Published: April 2008

Integrated System to Aid Supervisory Process of Technical Device

The aim of the paper is integrated system to aid supervisory process of technical device taking into consideration required level of exploitation safety and dependability. Preservation of accepted technical state of the machines and devices requires from users proper decisions which are results of continuous as well as periodically monitoring exploitation parameters' changes. Essential problem is digital drawing and conversion information from process of object exploitation and creating multi-access databases.
“Macho Men Don't Communicate”: The Role of Communication in HIV Prevention
Authors: Noland Carey
Published: April 2008

The current research project is an exploration of male interpersonal communication about sex in Puerto Rico. This study looks at how, when, and why men talk (or do not talk) about sex; particularly with their partners. Attention is given to interpersonal, communicative, and cultural aspects of sex and safe sex practices of Puerto Rican men. Seventeen heterosexual Puerto Rican men participated in this study. Overall, the ability to have meaningful communication about sex and take recommended precautions for safe sex (i.e., monogamy, discussion of previous sexual partners, and condom use) is limited, according to the participants.
I'd Rather Go along and Be Considered a Man: Masculinity and Bystander Intervention
Authors: Carlson Melanie
Published: April 2008

This research examines the relationship between masculinity and bystander intervention in crisis situations. Three vignettes were used in vignette-based, semi-structured interviews with 20 college men aged 18 and 19, during which they were asked questions about masculinity and the pressures they feel to appear masculine. Findings indicate these men felt they must not appear weak. This research suggests the pressure to act masculine plays a complex and important role in these young men's decisions about intervening in violent situations.
A Profeminist Approach to African American Male Characters
Authors: Cools Janice
Published: April 2008

The paper argues for a profeminist approach to African American male characters, suggesting that more traditional literary approaches do not offer a necessary and nuanced reading of African American male characters, where their masculinities are problematized. It operates on the assumption that African American masculinities are one of the most troubled masculinities and are therefore deserving of further scrutiny in literary texts. It argues further that the very basis for profeminist views, feminist theories, point to a necessary and elucidating way of reading texts where issues of race, gender, and the cost of one's place in a patriarchal society converge.
Identifying the Catholic Men's Movement
Authors: Gelfer Joseph
Published: April 2008

When we think of the Christian men's movement we tend to think of Promise Keepers, but the Christian men's movement comprises various streams following different ideologies, theologies, and denominations. In this paper, the Catholic men's movement is highlighted. In particular, the paper shows how Catholic writers have been involved in the general Christian men's movement (suggesting interaction between the different streams), how Promise Keepers provided an organizational model for the Catholic men's movement, and how Catholic masculine performances repeat and differ from those of the wider Christian men's movement.
Researching the Halted Paths of Male Primary School Teacher Candidates
Authors: Gosse Douglas , Parr Michael , Allison John
Published: April 2008

This arts-informed narrative inquiry will delve into the experiences of male B.Ed. teacher candidates in Northern Ontario who did not complete their education degree. Their intersectional voices will, hopefully, fuel dialogue around issues of power dynamics and intersectional identity (race, class, gender, sexual orientation, geographical location, and language and culture) applicable to education, men's studies, social justice, arts-informed and arts- based educational research, and affiliated disciplines. This paper begins with a brief review of the literature on male primary teachers, then research methodology, next a look at theory, followed by a composite narrative in the voice of a former teacher candidate, and culminates in the researchers' impressions and questions.
Gender Role Conflict and Separation-Individuation Difficulties: Their Impact on College Men's Loneliness
Authors: Blazina Christopher , Settle Anna G. , Eddins Rachel
Published: April 2008

The present study explored the role of gender role conflict and separation-in-dividuation difficulties as it relates to loneliness in college aged men. The results supported the theorized connection that difficulties associated with successful separation from parents (father and mother) would be related to loneliness. Further, men's gender role conflict scores were also related to increases of lonesomeness. Implications for future research and clinical dynamics from a psychoanalytic perspective are discussed.
Sexual Aggression in Bars: What College Men Can Normalize
Authors: Thompson Edward H. , Cracco Elizabeth J.
Published: April 2008

This study investigated if college men's sexual aggressiveness in bar and off-campus party settings should be viewed as contextually-specific normative masculinity performances as much as sexual aggressiveness. A sample of 264 college men drawn from 22 colleges and universities completed a questionnaire assessing gender ideologies and sexual experiences. Most men self-report they engage in sexually aggressive behavior in drinking settings. Over 90% revealed they had used overt sexually aggressive tactics in the bar/party setting. A regression analysis controlling for background differences among the men found masculinity ideology predicted sexual aggressiveness. College men endorsing the toughness expectations of masculinity ideology, and who perceive themselves in terms of socially desirable qualities that emphasize assertiveness and willingness to take risks, are the men most likely to be sexually aggressive in bar settings. College men's sexual aggressiveness seems to be normative in drinking settings and evidence of men doing masculinity in a misogynic-tolerant environment.
Discipline, Suppress, or Kill: From “Ages of Man” to Masculine Temporalities
Authors: Janssen Diederik F.
Published: April 2008

Scholars across disciplines operationalize masculinity as a cultural construct internally complicated by its multiplex and divisive anchoring to life phases. This critical review essay examines various dimensions of this internal division by looking at sociological, political, historical as well as comparative, social, psychological, and linguistic anthropologists' theorizing of maturity and gender as interdependent cultural foci. It reviews Carthesian and intersectional models to arrive at a more thorough temporalities-minded appraisal of “genders.” Masculinity appears thoroughly structured and ordered by ideas of temporality, so that its conventional moral and analytic anchoring in “men” or “adults” can be examined as being centrist, a-historical and a-cultural.
Effect of Movements on the Electrodermal Response after a Startle Event
Authors: Bächlin M. , Setz C. , Arnrich B. , Roggen D. , Tröster G. , Schumm J.
Published: April 2008

Objectives:
In this work the effect of quasi-stationary movements on the electrodermal activity (EDA) after a startle event has been investigated and evaluated. In previous EDA research there is a discrepancy between the use of controlled environment studies and daily life surveys. This paper aims to address this by expanding the knowledge about EDA in real life applications.

Methods:
A minimally obtrusive body-worn measurement device was designed and produced that simultaneously records EDA and finger movements. During this study, five subjects walked at different speeds and listened to startling sound events. The EDA response to these startle events was analyzed for different walking speeds using crosscorrelograms and cumulative frequency plots.

Results:
The measured response to the startle event is consistent with the signal characteristics described in the literature. The results show that the faster a person is walking the more the signal property of the phasic part of the EDA is approaching a uniform distribution. However, even at a walking speed of 6 km/h the effect of the startle event is statistically still visible in the EDA (p <0.05).

Conclusions:
The presented work offers a good understanding of the EDA while walking at different speeds. Although the artefacts evoked by walking cannot be determined directly, information on the movement can be useful. Depending on the walking speed a measurement about the reliability of peak detection could be introduced.
Modifying the structure of dinuclear ruthenium complexes with antitumor activity
Authors: Mendoza‐Ferri Maria G. , Hartinger Christian G. , Nazarov Alexey A. , Kandioller Wolfgang , Severin Kay , Keppler Bernhard K.
Published: April 2008

In order to modulate the structure of a recently developed series of antitumor‐active, dinuclear Ru(II)–arene compounds, complexes 1c–4c were synthesized. The complexes were modified with respect to their pyridinone moieties and the spacer linking the two metal centers. More particularly, the series of dinuclear ruthenium(II) complexes was extended to compounds with longer spacers, i.e. tetradecane and 3,7,10‐trioxotridecane, and the pyridinone ring was modified by replacing the methyl group by an ethyl group and by shifting the position of the methyl group. The organometallic ruthenium compounds were obtained from the reaction between [RuCl2(η6‐p‐isopropyltoluene)]2 and ligands 1b–4b with yields ranging from 41 to 67%. All compounds were characterized by standard methods: MS, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing Canadian seed oils as industrial feedstocks
Authors: Fobert Pierre R. , Smith Mark A. , Zou Jitao , Mietkiewska Elzbieta , Keller Wilfred A. , Taylor David C.
Published: April 2008

Vegetable oils have enormous potential as alternatives and replacements for fossil oil in high‐value industrial applications. A major research thrust in Canada involves delivering the next generation of industrial oil profiles in the seeds of non‐food crucifers. Progress in increasing the range of available fatty acids and improving the chemical homogeneity of Canadian crucifer seed oils are herein reviewed. © 2008 Crown in the Right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Distributed processing of biomass to bio‐oil for subsequent production of Fischer‐Tropsch liquids
Authors: Wright Mark M. , Brown Robert C. , Boateng Akwasi A.
Published: April 2008

This study compares centralized processing to distributed processing of biomass for subsequent production of Fischer‐Tropsch liquids (FTLs) at a centralized catalytic synthesis facility. Distributed processing in this study is based on fast pyrolysis to bio‐oils, which are more economically transported to a centralized F‐T plant where bio‐oil is gasi?ed and the syngas catalytically converted to FTLs. The study indicates that a centralized gasi? cation plant can produce FTLs from biomass for $1.56 per gallon of gasoline equivalent (gge) in an optimally sized plant of 550 million gge per year. Three distributed processing systems were investigated based on the scale of biomass processing capacity: ‘on‐farm’ pyrolyzers of 5.4 ton per day (tpd) capacity; ‘small cooperative’ pyrolyzers of 55 tpd capacity, and ‘large cooperative’ pyrolyzers of 550 tpd capacity. Distributed processing is combined with very large centralized bio‐oil processing plants that accept bio‐oil for catalytic upgrading to transportation fuels, achieving costs as low as $1.43 for total fuel production capacities in excess of 2500 million gge. Total capital investment (distributed pyrolyzers and centralized bio‐oil processing plant) for this optimally sized distributed processing system is projected to be $4 billion compared to $1.6 billion for the centralized biomass processing facility. © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Catalytic hydrothermal gasification of biomass
Authors: Elliott Douglas C.
Published: April 2008

A recent development in biomass gasification is the use of a pressurized water‐processing environment to avoid drying of the biomass. This paper reviews the research undertaken developing this new option for biomass gasification. This review does not cover wet oxidation or near‐atmospheric‐pressure steam‐gasification of biomass. Laboratory research on hydrothermal gasification of biomass focusing on the use of catalysts is reviewed here, and a companion review focuses on non‐catalytic processing. Research includes liquid‐phase, subcritical processing as well as supercritical water processing. The use of heterogeneous catalysts in such a system allows effective operation at lower temperatures, and the issues around the use of catalysts are presented. This review attempts to show the potential of this new processing concept by comparing the various options under development and the results of the research. © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Common femoral artery stenosis after deployment of vascular clip closure device
Authors: Osborn Larry A. , Sunderman Harold , Langsfeld Mark
Published: April 2008

We describe a case of symptomatic common femoral artery stenosis following use of a vascular clip closure device (StarClose). Operative repair was performed, with removal of the clip device and subsequent vein patch angioplasty. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Late percutaneous coronary intervention for the totally occluded infarct‐related artery: A meta‐analysis of the effects on cardiac function and remodeling
Authors: Appleton Darryn L. , Abbate Antonio , Biondi‐Zoccai Giuseppe G.L.
Published: April 2008

Background: Late percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of a totally occluded infarct‐related artery (IRA) in stable patients is currently not recommended based on the lack of clear clinical benefits in randomized controlled trials. We sought to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing PCI with optimal medical therapy in patients with IRA occlusion more than 12 hr after onset of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), focusing on left ventricular function and remodeling. Methods and Results: PubMed, CENTRAL, and mRCT were searched for eligible studies. Studies were included in the analysis if they were randomized controlled trials comparing conservative medical management with PCI performed at least 12 hr after the onset of symptoms of AMI, and data on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at baseline and follow‐up were available. Studies were excluded if randomization occurred less than 12 hr after symptom onset, or if patients were hemodynamically unstable. Change in LVEF was the primary outcome of interest, with changes in left ventricular end‐diastolic volume index (LVEDVI) and end‐systolic volume index (LVESVI) analyzed as secondary endpoints. We retrieved five studies in which baseline and follow up LVEF data were available enrolling a total of 648 patients: 342 patients randomized to PCI and 306 to medical treatment. There was a statistically significant difference in LVEF changes over time favoring PCI (+3.1%, 95% CI +1.0 to +5.2, P = 0.0004). In addition, there were statistically significant differences changes in both LVEDVI (−5.1 ml in favor of PCI, 95% CI of −9.4 to −0.8, P = 0.020) and LVESVI (−5.3 ml in favor in PCI, 95% CI of −8.3 to −2.4, P = 0.0005). Conclusions: This meta‐analysis suggests that late revascularization of an occluded IRA may improve left ventricular systolic function and remodeling, supporting the “open artery hypothesis.” The reason why these changes have not resulted in clinical benefits in large clinical trials is subject to debate. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Safety and efficacy of drug‐eluting stent for ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction in an unselected consecutive cohort
Authors: Vlaar Pieter J. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Singh Mandeep , Lennon Ryan , Ting Henry H. , Bresnahan John F. , Holmes David R.
Published: April 2008

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the clinical outcome of a large cohort of patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with drug‐eluting stents (DES) compared to bare metal stents (BMS). Background: Several randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that PCI with the routine use of DES is safe and effective in patients with STEMI. However as randomized trials have strict inclusion criteria, further studies in unselected patient populations are needed. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort analysis of the Mayo Clinic PCI database. A total of 552 consecutive STEMI patients who underwent a DES implantation between May 2003 and April 2006 were included in the study and compared to 557 who had BMS for STEMI earlier. No specific patient subsets were excluded. Results: Procedural success was achieved in 532 patients (96%). During initial hospitalization, 16 patients (2.9%) died and 8 (1.5%) suffered from a recurrent myocardial infarction. The median follow‐up was 23 months (IQR: 13–27 months). At 12 months post discharge, the rate of target lesion revascularization and death were 2.9% and 3.7%, respectively, and survival free of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) was 90.9%. These rates were similar to or lower than those of patients treated for STEMI with BMS prior to the availability of DES. Conclusion: DES are safe and effective in the treatment of STEMI in an unselected cohort; 90.9% of patients are free of MACE at 12 months post discharge. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The carotid artery revascularization and endarterectomy (CARE) registry: Objectives, design, and implications
Authors: White Christopher J. , Anderson H. Vernon , Brindis Ralph G. , Cates Christopher U. , Cohen David J. , Ho Kalon , Hopkins L. Nelson , Jaff Michael R. , Koroshetz Walter J. , Rosenfield Kenneth A.
Published: April 2008

This is the first comprehensive national registry that will provide data characterizing contemporary results of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS). Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) has become the standard revascularization therapy to prevent stroke in patients with carotid artery disease, while carotid artery stenting (CAS) offers a percutaneous alternative in selected patients. Given the rapid growth in the numbers of CAS procedures being performed, there is a critical need for a national program to assess quality outcomes. The Carotid Artery Revascularization and Endarterectomy (CARE) Registry was developed through a multispecialty collaboration resulting in a comprehensive data collection tool for carotid revascularization procedures. The intent of the CARE registry is to collect and analyze clinical data to measure clinical practice, patient outcomes, and enable quality improvement for carotid revascularization. Finally, the CARE Registry satisfies the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) data reporting criteria for reimbursement. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel use of ultrasound guidance for recanalization of iliac, femoral, and popliteal arteries
Authors: Kawasaki Daizo , Tsujino Takeshi , Fujii Kenichi , Masutani Motomaru , Ohyanagi Mitsumasa , Masuyama Tohru
Published: April 2008

Objectives: We attempted to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)‐guided endluminal endovascular therapy for chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the iliac and/or femoropopliteal arteries using Treasure 12, a stiff guidewire for peripheral CTO of 0.018 in. in monodirectional approach setting. Background: Endovascular therapy for CTO of the iliac and femoropopliteal arteries is still technically challenging. Methods: Endovascular therapy was performed in 110 patients who were admitted to Hyogo College of Medicine Hospital with iliac and/or femoropopliteal artery disease from January 2006 to October 2007. We retrospectively analyzed the data of consecutive 47 patients who underwent the endovascular therapy by monodirectional approach for CTO lesions of the iliac and femoropopliteal arteries. From January 2006 to November 2006 (phase 1), standard technique was applied for the treatment of 21 lesions. From December 2006 to October 2007 (phase 2), IVUS‐guided endovascular therapy was applied for the treatment of 31 lesions. Results: Clinical and lesion characteristics in phase 1 were not significantly different from those in phase 2. The overall initial technical success rate improved from 81% in phase 1 to 97% in phase 2. There were no significant differences in radiation exposure time between phase 1 and phase 2. Total volume of contrast material was significantly smaller in phase 2 than in phase 1 (P < 0.01). Conclusions: The IVUS‐guided endovascular therapy for CTO using Treasure 12 guidewire is feasible and safe, minimizes contrast material, and has a high initial technical success rate. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
What anti‐thrombotic therapy is best with primary PCI for acute ST elevation myocardial infarction: How should the HORIZONS trial change current practice?
Authors: Brodie Bruce R.
Published: April 2008

The current standard of care for anti‐thrombotic therapy with primary PCI for acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is aspirin, clopidogrel, unfractionated heparin and platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors. However, heparin and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors are associated with a high incidence of bleeding, and many of the trials documenting benefit with this therapy were performed before the widespread use of stents and clopidogrel. Bivalirudin is a direct thrombin inhibitor which has been found to have similar efficacy with less bleeding compared with heparin plus glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors when used with elective PCI and with PCI for unstable angina and non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction. The HORIZONS trial evaluated bivalirudin compared with unfractionated heparin and IIb/IIIa inhibitors in patients with STEMI treated with primary PCI and found similar MACE (major adverse cardiac events) with less bleeding and a lower incidence of net adverse clinical events (MACE or major bleeding) at 30 days. Mortality at 30 days was also significantly less with bivalirudin. These results make a strong case for the use of bivalirudin with primary PCI in the great majority of patients with STEMI, with the possible exception of patients with cardiogenic shock or stent thrombosis, and patients with a large thrombus burden or no re‐flow following PCI. In the latter case, platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors would be used as a bail‐out strategy. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.