bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Outline of the Later Holocene Archaeology and Precolonial History of the Ewaso Basin, Kenya
Authors: Lane Paul
Published: July 2011

Drawing on a range of archaeological, paleoenvironmental, linguistic, ethnographic, and historical data, this chapter outlines what is currently known about the trajectories of pastoralism in the Ewaso Basin from its initial appearance some 4000 years ago until the early twentieth century, by which time new systems of land use and tenure had been established within the context of British colonial rule. Overall, the evidence indicates that many different groups have occupied parts of this area at different times in the past, and that these have encompassed both hunter-gatherer and pastoralist communities and speakers of various Nilotic, Cushitic, and Bantu languages, among others. There is also good evidence to suggest that the boundaries between different “ethnic,” “subsistence,” and even linguistic groups have been fairly fluid and that cultural intermixing as well as interaction through exchange and other social mechanisms was common. Additionally, at least four broad phases of pastoralist practices can be identified for the period prior to the twentieth century. These phases entailed different forms and levels of mobility, including population migration and seasonal movements, and had diverse environmental consequences, some of which appear to have enhanced biodiversity and ecological resilience whereas others initiated significant changes to the structure of the vegetation mosaic and may have even resulted in localized rangeland degradation.
Reassessing Aerial Sample Surveys for Wildlife Monitoring, Conservation, and Management
Authors: Georgiadis Nicholas J. , Olwero Nasser , Ojwang’ Gordon , Aike George
Published: July 2011

Concerns about the cost-effectiveness of conservation monitoring prompt a reassessment of systematic aerial sample surveys, which have been widely applied to census wildlife and livestock in African savannas for more than 30 years. First, we use results from high-resolution sample surveys in Laikipia District (northern Kenya) to directly compare results from aerial total and sample surveys, showing few systematic differences in their estimates of wildlife abundance but great differences in cost and scope. Second, we quantify how the precision of population estimates is affected by survey resolution and species density. Results suggest that lower survey resolutions widely used in the past to census wildlife and livestock resources have been insufficient to reliably estimate all but the most abundant species. Third, we describe how sample survey data can be used to map the potential for human–wildlife conflict across large landscapes. High-resolution sample surveys in Laikipia have revealed causes and consequences of ecosystem change, advanced our understanding of ungulate population dynamics, guided wildlife management and conservation action, and increased confidence in sample survey methodology. However, further refinements in sample survey methods are needed to improve cost-effectiveness.
Diagnosis of Copper Transport Disorders
Authors: Møller Lisbeth B. , Hicks Julia D. , Holmes Courtney S. , Goldstein David S. , Brendel Cornelia , Huppke Peter , Kaler Stephen G.
Published: July 2011

Techniques for the diagnosis of copper transport disorders are increasingly important due to recent recognition of previously unappreciated clinical phenotypes and emerging advances in the treatment of these conditions. Here, we collate the diagnostic approaches and techniques currently employed for biochemical and molecular assessment of at‐risk individuals in whom abnormal copper metabolism is suspected. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 70:17.9.1‐17.9.33 © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Testing Hygrometers Used in Cytogenetics Laboratories for Metaphase Preparation
Authors: Hartley Thomas , Dun Karen
Published: July 2011

This protocol describes procedures for checking small laboratory hygrometers for accuracy at three relative humidity (rh) levels. The work arose out of the need to provide laboratory assessors with documentary evidence that the hygrometer used to monitor humidity in the vicinity of the laboratory where medical cytogenetics testing slides are prepared and dried in the ambient environment is reproducible and sufficiently accurate. The procedure is based upon the physicochemical principle that when water or certain saturated salt solutions are placed into a sealed environment, the humidity will equilibrate to well defined levels. We choose to check our hygrometers at three points: 95%, 75%, and 33% rh, using distilled water, saturated sodium chloride solution, and saturated magnesium chloride solution, respectively. Our results have demonstrated that the procedure is convenient and of sufficient accuracy to be fit for this annual hygrometer validation purpose. The procedure takes 24 hr per relative humidity point checked. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 70:A.2F.1‐A.2F.8 © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Mild Methodology for the Versatile Chemical Modification of Polylactide Surfaces: Original Combination of Anionic and Click Chemistry for Biomedical Applications
Authors: El Habnouni Sarah , Darcos Vincent , Garric Xavier , Lavigne Jean‐Philippe , Nottelet Benjamin , Coudane Jean
Published: July 2011

Biodegradable aliphatic polyesters such as polylactide (PLA) are widely used in medical applications. When employed as an implantable material, the control of the surface properties of PLA is of great interest because biochemical reactions occur on the surface or at interfaces. Thus, chemical modifications of the surface of degradable polyesters can be used to tailor the surface properties while preserving the bulk characteristics. This paper proposes a simple and versatile method of preventing polymer degradation and immobilizing simple molecules, macromolecules, and biomolecules on PLA surfaces. The method is based on a one‐pot, two‐step procedure: anionic activation under selected conditions followed by propargylation to form a “clickable” PLA surface. This surface is extensively characterized by SEC and fluorescence techniques using a fluorescent probe, confirming both the functionalization and the absence of PLA degradation. An example of the surface immobilization of a bioactive compound is then described: a well‐defined α‐azido‐functionalized poly(quaternary ammonium) synthesized via ATRP is covalently bound to the propargylated PLA surface using “click” chemistry. This covalent grafting is confirmed by SEC and XPS analyses. The increase in surface hydrophilicity is demonstrated by water contact‐angle measurements. Finally, a primary investigation is conducted to determine the antibacterial activity of modified PLA surfaces against E. coli and S. aureus.
Telescopic time‐scale bridging for modeling dispersion in rapidly oscillating flows
Authors: Balachandran Ram K. , Roychowdhury Jaijeet , Dorfman Kevin D. , Barocas Victor H.
Published: July 2011

Analytical solution of dispersion in rapidly oscillating flows becomes infeasible in complex geometries. Simulation over long durations can be prohibitively expensive when there is a wide separation between the oscillation and dispersion time scales. Here, we present a methodology based on an implicit envelope‐tracking scheme coupled with telescopic projections. A test problem, with a known analytical solution, was simulated, and the effect of Péclet number on the dispersivities was investigated. The solution was unaffected by the time steps for telescopic projections while increasing Péclet numbers introduced errors. The error was found to decrease with mesh refinement, but a small inherent error was observed. The method was also applied to a practical problem of interest to us: drug dispersion due to sloshing in the vitreous humor of the eye. Relative to single‐scale solution, the method, when applied to the vitreous sloshing problem, produced speedup values of up to 100. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Revisiting Johnson and Jackson boundary conditions for granular flows
Authors: Li Tingwen , Benyahia Sofiane
Published: July 2011

In this article, we revisit Johnson and Jackson boundary conditions for granular flows. The oblique collision between a particle and a flat wall is analyzed by adopting the classic rigid‐body theory and a more realistic semianalytical model. Based on the kinetic granular theory, the input parameter for the partial‐slip boundary conditions, specularity coefficient, which is not measurable in experiments, is then interpreted as a function of the particle‐wall restitution coefficient, the frictional coefficient, and the normalized slip velocity at the wall. An analytical expression for the specularity coefficient is suggested for a flat, frictional surface with a low frictional coefficient. The procedure for determining the specularity coefficient for a more general problem is outlined, and a working approximation is provided. Published 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers, 2012
A pilot study to determine whether health care professionals perceive stigma in heterozygote carrier identification and disclosure decisions
Authors: Moffett Alexander , Ross Lainie Friedman
Published: July 2011

We conducted an empirical pilot study to assess the attitudes of health care professionals (HCPs) to the personal identification of heterozygote carrier status for two autosomal recessive conditions (cystic fibrosis and a hemoglobinopathy) and for an X‐linked disorder (Duchenne muscular dystrophy) using the Health Orientation Scale (HOS) and a modified HIV Stigma Scale. Attitudes towards carrier identification of children were also assessed. Three hundred and ten of 742 (42%) eligible HCPs fully or partly completed the survey. As measured with the HOS and the modified HIV scale, respondents had a more negative reaction to the hypothetical discovery of being a carrier for an autosomal recessive genetic condition that was less likely given their self‐identified ancestry. Female respondents had a more negative reaction on both scales to being a carrier for an X‐linked disorder than men thought their partners would feel. However, the differences found on the HOS and modified HIV scale are small and their clinical relevance unknown. Fifty‐seven percent of respondents agreed that parents should tell their children to keep their carrier status private with many (44%) agreeing that children who learn that they are carriers may suffer from a decrease in self‐esteem. The vast majority of respondents would inform immediate family members and HCPs of their carrier status, but would be unlikely to share this information with neighbors or employers. Further study is needed to develop a heterozygote genetic carrier stigma scale. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The FRAXopathies: Definition, overview, and update
Authors: Pirozzi Filomena , Tabolacci Elisabetta , Neri Giovanni
Published: July 2011

The fragile X syndrome, fragile X tremor ataxia syndrome, and premature ovarian insufficiency are conditions related to the X chromosome folate‐sensitive fragile site FRAXA. Therefore, we propose that they are considered as a family of disorders under the general designation of FRAXopathies. The present review will outline the main clinical and molecular features of these disorders, with special emphasis on the pathogenic mechanisms that lead to distinct phenotypes, starting from related mutations. The understanding of these mechanisms is already generating promising therapeutic approaches. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Familial intellectual disability and autistic behavior caused by a small FMR2 gene deletion
Authors: Stettner Georg M. , Shoukier Moneef , Höger Christoph , Brockmann Knut , Auber Bernd
Published: July 2011

Alterations of the Fragile Mental Retardation 2 gene (FMR2, synonym AFF2) can result in non‐specific, mild to borderline X‐linked intellectual disability (XLID), and behavioral problems. The well‐known molecular pathomechanism of this condition, also referred to as FRAXE, is a (CCG)n trinucleotide repeat expansion which leads to silencing of the FMR2 gene. However, deletions within the FMR2 gene may also be causative of the disorder. Here, we report on two brothers diagnosed with FRAXE in whom a small deletion in the FMR2 gene was detected by whole genome array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). The deletion was also present in their clinically healthy mother and maternal uncle who was similarly affected, but not in a healthy older brother of the two patients. Our observation demonstrates that FMR2 gene deletions may contribute to the FRAXE phenotype. Therefore, we suggest that screening for FMR2 gene deletions using array CGH should be considered in patients with non‐specific XLID and absent trinucleotide expansion. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of the new cellulose derivative films based on the hydroxyethyl cellulose prepared from “Stipa Tenacissima” cellulose of Eastern Morocco. I. Solubility study
Authors: Abderahmane Elidrissi , El barkany Soufian , Hassan Amhamdi , Abdel‐Karim Maaroufi
Published: July 2011

Hydroxyethyl cellulose Acetate (HECA) was prepared starting from hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), acetic anhydride and perchloric acid which was used as catalyst. The synthesized product was characterized by FTIR, 13C NMR, and 1H NMR. Substitution degree (DS) of HECA was determined using FTIR spectra taking a classical titration method as reference. The 1H NMR spectroscopy was also used to confirm the results obtained by FTIR. The DS is substantially affected by the temperature, the time of reaction and especially the equivalent number (eq. nb.) of the acetic anhydride added. We have studied and discussed in the context of usage in modification reactions, the solubility of the HECA samples by varying their DS. This investigation was based on the determination of the Flory‐Huggins interaction parameters (χSP) using the partial Hansen solubility parameters (HSP). HSP of HEC and the HECA samples were calculated from the Van‐Krevlen‐Hoftyze (VKH) method and the T. Lindvig approximation. We have focused our work on predicting and controlling family solvents of HECA with various DS, to facilitate and to optimize the homogenous modification reaction conditions. From results on a range of HECA samples, it is conclude that their prediction solubility taking the value of DS into account is possible, and then the surface modification can relatively be easily realized. The thermal analysis study shows some differences in Tg and thermal degradation between HEC and HECA, moreover these thermal temperatures are influenced by DS values. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Polystyrene‐block‐polylactide obtained by the combination of atom transfer radical polymerization and ring‐opening polymerization with a commercial dual initiator
Authors: Dirany Mohammed , Lacroix‐Desmazes Patrick , Vayer Marylène , Erre René , Boutevin Bernard , Sinturel Christophe
Published: July 2011

A polystyrene (PS)‐b‐polylactide (PLA) block copolymer was prepared from the combination of atom transfer radical polymerization and ring‐opening polymerization with commercially available 2,2,2‐tribromoethanol as a dual initiator in a sequential two‐step procedure. Hydroxyl‐terminated polystyrene (PS‐OH)s with various molecular weights were first prepared with polydispersity indices lower than 1.3; these provided valuable macroinitiators for the polymerization ofD,L‐lactide. A block copolymer with a composition allowing the formation of hexagonally packed PLA cylinders in a PS matrix was then obtained. The PS‐b‐PLA thin films revealed, after vapor solvent annealing, a hexagonally packed organization of the PLA cylinders, which was oriented perpendicularly to the surface of the film. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Evaluation and modeling of the mechanical behavior of carbon nanoparticle/rubber‐modified polyethylene nanocomposites
Authors: Mahmoud Waleed E. , Al‐Ghamdi A. A. , Al‐Marzouki F. , Al‐Ameer S.
Published: July 2011

Recently, the production of polymers loaded with inorganic nanomaterials has been one of the most economical techniques playing a special role in improving the physical and mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Rubbers loaded with different concentrations of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) were synthesized. The mechanical properties were tested according to standard methods. It was found that the properties of the investigated nanocomposites were improved, depending on the concentration of CNPs in the investigated composite. The optimum concentration was found to be 1.3 vol %. Affine deformation based on the Mooney–Rivilin model was used to visualize the effect of CNPs on the rubber. When polyethylene (PE) was added to rubber/CNPs at the optimum concentration (12.4 vol %), the modulus, tear resistance, and fatigue life were increased, whereas the tensile strength decreased, and the strain at rupture remained almost same. A crosslink model was used to explain the influence of PE on the rubber/CNP nanocomposites. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Soft PVC foams: Study of the gelation, fusion, and foaming processes. II. Adipate, citrate and other types of plasticizers
Authors: Zoller Agnes , Marcilla Antonio
Published: July 2011

Plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) is one of the most useful polymeric materials on an industrial scale because of its processability, wide range of obtainable properties, and low cost. PVC plastisols are used in the production of flexible PVC foams. Phthalates are the most used plasticizers for PVC, and in a previous article (part I of this series), we discussed the influence of phthalate ester type plasticizers on the foaming process and on the quality of the foams obtained from the corresponding plastisols. Because the use of phthalate plasticizers has been questioned because of possible health implications, the objective of this work was to undertake a similar study with 11 commercial alternative plasticizers to phthalates. The evolution of the dynamic and extensional viscosity and the interactions and thermal transitions undergone by the plastisols during the heating process were studied. Foams were obtained by rotational molding and were characterized by the determination of their thermomechanical properties, density, and cell size distribution. Correlations were obtained between the molecular weight and structure of the plasticizer and the behavior of the corresponding plastisols. After the characterization of the final foamed product, we concluded that foams of relatively good quality could be prepared with alternative plasticizers for replacing phthalates. Several plasticizers {Mesamoll (alkylsulfonic phenyl ester), Eastman 168 [bis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate], Hexamoll [di(isononyl) cyclohexane‐1,2‐dicarboxylate], Citroflex A4 acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), and Plastomoll (dihexyl adipate)} were found to be interesting alternatives in the production of soft PVC foams because they provided very good quality foams with properties similar to, or even better than, those obtained with phthalate plasticizers. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Polylactide toughening with epoxy‐functionalized grafted acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene particles
Authors: Sun Shulin , Zhang Mingyao , Zhang Huixuan , Zhang Xiumei
Published: July 2011

Glycidyl methacrylate functionalized acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS‐g‐GMA) particles were prepared and used to toughen polylactide (PLA). The characteristic absorption at 1728 cm−1 of the Fourier transform infrared spectra indicated that glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) was grafted onto the polybutadiene phase of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS). Chemical reactions analysis indicated that compatibilization and crosslinking reactions took place simultaneously between the epoxy groups of ABS‐g‐GMA and the end carboxyl or hydroxyl groups of PLA and that the increase of GMA content improved the reaction degree. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that 1 wt % GMA was sufficient to satisfy the compatibilization and that ABS‐g‐GMA particles with 1 wt % GMA dispersed in PLA uniformly. A further increase of GMA content induced the agglomeration of ABS‐g‐GMA particles because of crosslinking reactions. Dynamic mechanical analysis testing showed that the miscibility between PLA and ABS improved with the introduction of GMA onto ABS particles because of compatibilization reactions. The storage modulus decreased for the PLA blends with increasing GMA content. The decrease in the storage modulus was due to the chemical reactions in the PLA/ABS‐g‐GMA blends, which improved the viscosity and decreased the crystallization of PLA. A notched impact strength of 540 J/m was achieved for the PLA/ABS‐g‐GMA blend with 1 wt % GMA, which was 27 times than the impact strength of pure PLA, and a further increase in the GMA content in the ABS‐g‐GMA particles was not beneficial to the toughness improvement. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Corrosion inhibition of aluminum with a 3‐(10‐sodium sulfonate decyloxy) aniline monomeric surfactant and its analog polymer in a 0.5M hydrochloric acid solution
Authors: El‐Deeb M. M. , Mohamed S. M.
Published: July 2011

The inhibitory effect of a 3‐(10‐sodium sulfonate decyloxy) aniline monomeric surfactant and the analog polymeric surfactant poly[3‐(decyloxy sulfonic acid) aniline] (PC10) on the corrosion of aluminum in 0.5M hydrochloric acid was studied with weight loss and potentiodynamic polarization techniques. The results show that the inhibition occurred through the adsorption of inhibitor molecules on the metal surface. The inhibition efficiency was found to increase with increasing inhibitor concentration and decrease with increasing temperature. It was found that these inhibitors acted as mixed‐type inhibitors with anodic predominance. The adsorption of these compounds on the metal surface obeyed the Langmuir and Frumkin adsorption isotherms. Thermodynamic functions for both the dissolution and adsorption processes were determined. The obtained results from the weight loss and potentiodynamic polarization techniques were in a good agreement. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Processable high Tg high strength fluorinated new poly(arylene ether)s containing imido aryl group
Authors: Kumar Mohanty Aruna , Kumar Sen Suman , Banerjee Susanta
Published: July 2011

A series of poly(arylene ether)s (7a–7f) were successfully synthesized by aromatic nucleophilic substitution reactions of imidoaryl biphenol (5), 4,9‐bis‐(4‐hydroxy‐phenyl)‐2‐phenyl‐benzo[f]isoindole‐1,3‐dione with six different trifluoromethyl substituted bisfluoro monomers (6a–6f). The weight‐average molar masses of the polymers were up to 280 kD as measured by GPC. These poly(arylene ether)s exhibited glass transition temperatures up to 361°C in DSC. These polymers showed very high thermal stability up to 558°C for 10% weight loss under synthetic air in TGA. Except 7d–7f, remaining polymers 7a–7c were soluble in a wide range of organic solvents. Transparent thin films of these polymers cast from DCM or NMP exhibited tensile strengths up to 75 MPa and elongation at break up to 41% depending on their exact repeating unit structures. These poly(arylene ether)s showed cut‐off wavelength in between 400 and 450 nm except 7d and water absorption were in the range of 0.4 to 0.6%. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
The effect of feedstock cost on biofuel cost as exemplified by biomethane production from grass silage
Authors: McEniry Joseph , O'Kiely Padraig , Crosson Paul , Groom Elaine , Murphy Jerry D.
Published: July 2011

The potential variance in feedstock costs can have significant implications for the cost of a biofuel and the financial viability of a biofuel facility. This paper employs the Grange Feed Costing Model to assess the cost of on‐farm biomethane production using grass silages produced under a range of management scenarios. These costs were compared with the cost of wheat grain and sugarbeet roots for ethanol production at an industrial scale.

Of the three feedstocks examined, grass silage represents the cheapest feedstock per GJ of biofuel produced. At a production cost of €27/tonne (t) feedstock (or €150/t volatile solids (VS)), the feedstock production cost of grass silage per gigajoule (GJ) of biofuel (€12.27) is lower than that of sugarbeet (€16.82) and wheat grain (€18.61). Grass biomethane is also the cheapest biofuel when grass silage is costed at the bottom quartile purchase price of silage of €19/t (€93/t VS). However, when considering the production costs (full‐costing) of the three feedstocks, the total cost of grass biomethane (€32.37/GJ of biofuel; intensive 2‐cut system) from a small on‐farm facility ranks between that of sugarbeet (€29.62) and wheat grain ethanol (€34.31) produced in large industrial facilities.

The feedstock costs for the above three biofuels represent 0.38, 0.57, and 0.54 of the total biofuel cost. The importance of feedstock cost on biofuel cost is further highlighted by the 0.43 increase in the cost of biomethane when grass silage is priced at the top quartile (€46/t or €232/t VS) compared to the bottom quartile purchase price. © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Pushing wrist access to the limit
Authors: Agostoni Pierfrancesco , Zuffi Andrea , Biondi‐Zoccai Giuseppe
Published: July 2011

A 67‐year‐old man underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute anterior ST elevation myocardial infarction. The right radial artery was the access of choice. After easy cannulation, a 360‐degree loop was found at the elbow level. The brachial artery and a large ulnar artery were visible by injecting contrast through the radial loop. After an unsuccessful attempt to engage the loop, the operator switched entry site for the homolateral ulnar artery. Leaving the radial sheath in place, the cannulation of the ulnar artery was successful and uncomplicated. The operator could easily perform a successful intervention of the culprit vessel. An angiogram of the wrist, via the ulnar sheath showed the presence of a big interosseous artery with flow up to the hand and no flow in the radial and ulnar arteries distal to the sheaths. The ulnar and radial arteries were successfully sealed after a few hours, a valid pulsation was present on both arteries and no signs of ischemia were evident in the right hand the day after. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcomes of concomitant percutaneous coronary intervention and balloon aortic valvuloplasty
Authors: Ben‐Dor Itsik , Maluenda Gabriel , Looser Patrick M. , Okubagzi Petros , Torguson Rebecca , Xue Zhenyi , Lindsay Joseph , Satler Lowell F. , Pichard Augusto D. , Waksman Ron
Published: July 2011

Background: Coronary artery disease often coexists with severe aortic stenosis. The feasibility and safety of combined balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are unknown. Aim: To compare outcomes and complications of combined BAV and PCI with BAV alone. Methods: The study cohort consisted of 409 patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing BAV from 1/2007 to 12/2010. Overall, 329 patients underwent BAV alone and 80 underwent concomitant PCI. Clinical and hemodynamic data, as well as acute and intermediate‐term outcomes, were collected. Results: At the operator's discretion PCI was done before BAV in 66 (82.5%) and after in 14 (17.5%). Patients who underwent concomitant procedures had a higher incidence of prior stroke and a lower incidence of atrial fibrillation. Procedure time and fluoroscopic time were significantly greater in the BAV/PCI group, (90.0 ± 36.6 vs. 72.8 ± 39.8, P = 0.002 and 20.5 ± 10.9 vs. 12.9 ± 7.0, P < 0.001). Significantly more radiographic contrast was used in the BAV/PCI group (95.1 ± 45.5 vs. 36.7 ± 38.4 cm3, P < 0.001. Serious adverse events occurred with equal frequency 13.7 and 17.3%, P = 0.44). Transfusion requirement was also similar (21.2% vs. 20.0%, P = 0.81). The frequency of a periprocedural increase in troponin or creatinine was also similar. In the BAV alone group the mortality rate was 48.6% (n = 160) during a mean follow‐up of 191 days, and in the BAV/PCI group the mortality rate was 40% (n = 32) during mean follow‐up of 175.5 day, P = 0.34. Conclusion: Combined BAV and PCI are safe and are associated with similar complications as BAV alone and may offer protection against myocardial ischemia during BAV. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcomes of small coronary artery stenting with bare‐metal stents versus drug‐eluting stents: Results from the NHLBI dynamic registry
Authors: Parikh Shailja V. , Luna Michael , Selzer Faith , Marroquin Oscar C. , Mulukutla Suresh R. , Abbott J. Dawn , Holper Elizabeth M.
Published: July 2011

Objectives

Examine 1‐year outcomes of patients with small coronary arteries in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Dynamic Registry (NHLBI) undergoing drug‐eluting stent (DES) vs. bare‐metal stent (BMS) placement.

Background

While randomized trials of DES vs. BMS demonstrate reduced target vessel revascularization, it is unclear whether similar outcomes are seen in unselected patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for small coronary arteries.

Methods

Utilizing patients from the NHLBI Registry Waves 1–3 for BMS (1997–2002) and Waves 4–5 for DES (2004 and 2006), demographic, angiographic, in‐hospital, and 1‐year outcome data of patients with small coronary arteries treated with BMS (n = 686) vs. DES (n = 669) were evaluated. Small coronary artery was defined as 2.50–3.00 mm in diameter.

Results

Compared to BMS‐treated patients, the mean lesion length of treated lesions was longer in the DES treated group (16.7 vs. 13.1 mm, P < 0.001) and the mean reference vessel size of attempted lesions was smaller (2.6 vs. 2.7 mm, P < 0.001). Adjusted analyses of 1‐year outcomes revealed that DES patients were at lower risk to undergo coronary artery bypass graft surgery (Hazard Ratio [HR] 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.17–0.95, P = 0.04), repeat PCI (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.35–0.82, P = 0.004), and experience the combined major adverse cardiovascular event rate (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.42–0.83, P = 0.002). There was no difference in the risk of death and myocardial infarction (MI) (HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.46–1.35, P = 0.38).

Conclusions

In this real‐world registry, patients with small coronary arteries treated with DES had significantly lower rates of repeat revascularization and major adverse cardiovascular events at 1 year compared to patients treated with BMS, with no increase in the risk of death and MI. These data confirm the efficacy and safety of DES over BMS in the treatment of small coronary arteries in routine clinical practice. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coil embolization for distal left main aneurysm: A new approach to coronary artery aneurysm treatment
Authors: Saccà Salvatore , Pacchioni Andrea , Nikas Dimitrios
Published: July 2011

Coronary artery aneurysm is an uncommon disease, whose natural history and therapeutic approach are still controversial: medical therapy, surgical revascularization with or without aneurysm ligation or excision, and endovascular exclusion with membrane covered stents are all accepted and viable options, according to anatomic characteristics. Intracranial aneurysms are adequately treated by means of coil embolization, an option that, to our knowledge, has never been tested in coronary interventions. We report the first case of a coronary aneurysm involving the distal left main and the proximal left anterior descending artery treated with “stent‐assisted” coil embolization. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Outcomes of cardiac catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention for in‐hospital ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation cardiac arrest
Authors: Helton Thomas J. , Nadig Vidya , Subramanya Sriharsha D. , Menon Venu , Ellis Stephen G. , Shishehbor Mehdi H.
Published: July 2011

Objective: This study examined outcomes of patients with sudden cardiac death attributable to primary ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) that underwent cardiac catheterization with or without percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Background: The decision to perform cardiac catheterization and PCI in resuscitated patients with sudden cardiac death remains controversial. Prior data suggest a potential benefit from percutaneous revascularization. Methods: All patients with an in‐hospital pulseless VT or VF cardiac arrest from August 2002 to February 2008 who underwent cardiac catheterization were included. Retrospective chart review was performed to obtain clinical, neurologic, and angiographic data. Primary endpoints were all‐cause mortality and neurologic outcome. Results: Two thousand and thirty‐four patients had in‐hospital cardiac arrest, of these 116 had pulseless VT or VF and were resuscitated and 93 (80%) underwent coronary angiography. The median time to follow‐up was 1.3 years (IQR: 0.5–2.9 years). Obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) was observed in 74 (79%) individuals, of whom 37 underwent PCI. Thirty‐five patients with obstructive CAD (47%) died compared to 41% with nonobstructive CAD. In unadjusted and multivariable adjusted analysis PCI was not associated with lower mortality (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.54, 95% CI, 0.79–3.02, P = 0.20). No significant differences were noted in neurologic status at discharge (P = 0.49). Conclusion: In this study, an aggressive revascularization strategy with PCI did not confer a survival advantage nor was it associated with improved neurologic outcomes. There was no suggestion of harm with PCI and further studies are necessary to identify potential subgroups that may benefit from revascularization. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First‐in‐man transcatheter aortic valve implantation of a 20‐mm edwards SAPIEN XT valve: One step forward for the treatment of patients with severe aortic stenosis and small aortic annulus
Authors: Rodés‐Cabau Josep , DeLarochellière Robert , Dumont Eric
Published: July 2011

We present the case of an 85‐year‐old woman diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis, porcelain aorta, and a small aortic annulus (17.3 mm), who underwent successful transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with a 20‐mm Edwards SAPIEN XT valve using the NovaFlex+ delivery system. At 1‐month follow‐up the patient was in NYHA functional class I, and Doppler echocardiography showed a mean residual gradient of 15 mm Hg and trivial paravalvular aortic regurgitation. This case, which shows for the first time the feasibility of TAVI with a 20‐mm valve, opens a new avenue for the challenging treatment of patients with aortic stenosis and a small aortic annulus. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel mother and child technique with a 4F inner catheter based on proper alignment of both catheters
Authors: Ashikaga Takashi , Sakurai Kaoru , Satoh Yasuhiro
Published: July 2011

We occasionally encounter difficult cases of stent and balloon delivery to the distal lesion due to severe calcification or tortuosity of the proximal section. We describe a novel mother and child technique with a 4F inner catheter based on proper alignment of both catheters to deliver balloon, stent, and guide catheter to the distal lesion. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Validity and variability in visual assessment of stenosis severity in phantom bifurcation lesions: A survey in experts during the fifth meeting of the european bifurcation club
Authors: Girasis Chrysafios , Onuma Yoshinobu , Schuurbiers Johan C.H. , Morel Marie‐angele , van Es Gerrit‐Anne , van Geuns Robert‐Jan , Wentzel Jolanda J. , Serruys Patrick W. ,   on behalf of the participants of the 5th meeting of the European Bifurcation Club
Published: July 2011

Objectives: To investigate the adequacy of visual estimate regarding the percent diameter stenosis (DS) in bifurcation lesions. Background: Quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) is more accurate and precise compared to visual estimate in assessing stenosis severity in single‐vessel lesions. Methods: Thirty‐six experts in the field of bifurcation PCI visually assessed the DS in cine images of five precision manufactured phantom bifurcation lesions, experts being blinded to the true values. Expert DS estimates were compared with the true values and they were also used to define the Medina class of each individual bifurcation. Results were pooled together both for proximal main vessel (PMV), distal main vessel (DMV) and side‐branch (SB) segments and for vessel segments with similar DS values. Results: Individual performance was highly variable among observers; pooled values and range of accuracy and precision were 2.79% (−6.67% to 17.33%) and 8.69% (4.31–16.25%), respectively. On average, DS was underestimated in the PMV (−1.08%, P = 0.10) and overestimated in the DMV (3.86% P < 0.01) and SB segments (5.58%, P < 0.01). Variability in visual estimates was significantly larger in lesions of medium severity compared to the clearly obstructive ones (P < 0.01); the latter were consistently overestimated. Inter‐observer agreement was moderate (κ = 0.55) over the entire number of estimates. However, if the segments with true DS = 0% were excluded, agreement was diminished (κ = 0.27). Inter‐observer agreement in Medina class was rather low (κ = 0.21). True bifurcation lesions were misclassified as non‐true ones in 14/180 estimates. Conclusions: Visual assessment by experts is more variable and less precise in the analysis of bifurcation lesions compared to bifurcation QCA software. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thrombus aspiration alone during primary percutanous coronary intervention as definitive treatment in acute ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Kramer Miranda C. , Verouden Niels C. , Li Xiaofei , Koch Karel T. , van der Wal Allard C. , Tijssen Jan G. , de Winter Robbert J.
Published: July 2011

Background: In some patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent primary percutanous coronary intervention (pPCI) with thrombus aspiration, residual stenosis after thrombus aspiration is non‐significant and additional balloon dilatation or stent placement may be unnecessary. We investigated the angiographic, procedural, and clinical outcomes of these patients in our single center pPCI‐database. In addition, to gain insight in the pathological mechanisms of coronary thrombosis in these patients, we established the histopathological characteristics and age of the aspirated material. Methods: This study consists of STEMI patients who underwent pPCI with thrombus aspiration alone in our institution. Thrombus material was collected and processed and the sections were analyzed for the presence of fresh (<1 day) or older thrombus (>1 day) and plaque components. One year clinical follow‐up was obtained and vital status was assessed up to March 2010. Results: We identified 16 STEMI patients who underwent thrombus aspiration alone as the definitive treatment during pPCI. Acceptable flow with minimal non‐significant residual stenosis immediately after thrombus aspiration was present in 14 patients (88%). In four patients (25%) repeat angiography was performed after several days and disappearance of the residual thrombus could be confirmed in three patients. During follow‐up, repeat target lesion revascularization was performed in one patient at 53 days. No recurrent myocardial infarction was observed. Two patients died 1,166 and 1,228 days after the index‐event from non‐cardiac causes. Conclusions: In selected STEMI patients undergoing pPCI, thrombus aspiration alone is feasible and safe on the short‐term and there appears to be no high risk of recurrent ischemic events during follow‐up. Our results suggest that additional balloon inflation or stent implantation may be unnecessary in selected patients, when there is no significant residual stenosis after thrombus aspiration. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rotational angiography for preinterventional imaging in transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Juergen Meyhöfer , Johanna Ahrens , Michael Neuss , Frank Hölschermann , Thomas Schau , Christian Butter
Published: July 2011

Objective:To evaluate the clinical value of 3D rotational angiography, as a tool for imaging and measuring 3D anatomy, coupled with transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) as preinterventional imaging for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures.Background:TAVI is a growing field in cardiology. An understanding of the 3D anatomy of the aortic root is crucial for patient selection and for the optimal planning and guidance of such procedures. Current techniques include 3D imaging (with MSCT MRI and 3D TEE) combined with multiplane TEE. Nevertheless, a gold standard of 3D imaging is yet not defined. 3D rotational angiography provides 3D anatomy information in the cathlab. Initially designed for nonmoving anatomical structures, one can adapt the protocol to temporarily minimize the heart anatomy motion during rotational angiography.Methods:Ninety‐nine consecutive patients (61 females, 38 males, age 80.9 ± 5.2 years) with symptomatic aortic stenosis underwent 3D rotational angiography to assess the anatomical suitability of potential TAVI candidates. 3D rotational angiography with a C‐Arm (Innova 3100IQ, GE Healthcare, Chalfont St Giles, UK) was performed to create the 3D anatomy of the aortic root. Coronary angiography and pelvic vessel angiography were performed during the same examination. Measurements of the aortic annulus and the sinotubular junction were made on the 3D cross‐sections and were compared to TEE. Radiation dose to the patient was also monitored.Results:In all 99 patients, 3D rotational angiography was performed successfully with good imaging of the aortic root and measurements of the aortic annulus. In patients scheduled for SAPIEN valve implantation, the distances from the annulus to the coronary ostia were also measured. Of 99 patients, 80 subsequently underwent successful implantation. There is a good correlation to the TEE in the measured aortic annulus (22.13 ± 2.09 mm in rotational angio, 21.58 ± 2.09 mm TEE, Spearmanr= 0.88, 95% IC [0.83;0.92],P< 0.0001) and sinotubular junction (26.19 ± 2.71 mm in rotational angio, 26.22 ± 2.73 mm TEE, Spearmanr= 0.83, 95% IC [0.75;0.88],P< 0.0001). The effective dose is a fraction of the X‐ray dose required for multi‐slice computed tomography.Conclusion:Given that this technology is available in the cathlab at reasonable dose levels, 3D rotational angiography has proven to be a suitable preinterventional 3D imaging modality for TAVI procedures. Together, the raw angiographic data and the reconstructed 3D volume provide all the necessary anatomical information necessary for this procedure, including the measurements. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prospective evaluation of myocardial ischemia related to post‐procedural side‐branch stenosis in bifurcated lesions treated by provisional approach with drug‐eluting stents
Authors: Burzotta Francesco , Trani Carlo , Todaro Daniel , Lanza Gaetano Antonio , Mariani Luca , Tommasino Antonella , Niccoli Giampaolo , Porto Italo , Leone Antonio Maria , Crea Filippo
Published: July 2011

Objectives: To prospectively assess the impact of post‐procedural side‐branch (SB) stenosis on inducible myocardial ischemia in patients with bifurcated lesions undergoing percutaneous interventions. Background: Provisional‐stenting with drug‐eluting stents (DES) is the recommended strategy to treat percutaneously bifurcated lesions but is associated to variable degrees of residual SB stenosis. The role of SB residual stenosis on post‐procedural myocardial ischemia is uncertain. Methods: Patients with bifurcations treated by DES according to provisional‐stenting technique were enrolled in the study if they had no other untreated lesion. Patients were divided into two groups according to post‐procedural 3D‐quantitative coronary analysis (3DQCA): group OR (optimal result: stenosis < 50% of SB lumen area at 3DQCA) and group SR, suboptimal result: (stenosis ≥ 50% of SB lumen area at 3DQCA). Treadmill exercise stress test (EST) was performed within 1 week from PCI. The primary study endpoint was myocardial ischemia (≥1 mm ST‐segment depression at EST). Results: Sixty patients were enrolled: 49 (81.7%) comprised group OR and 11 (18.3%) group SR. Post‐PCI myocardial ischemia at EST was inducible in 17 (34.7%) patients of group OR versus 10 (90.9%) patients of group SR (P = 0.0007). During the follow‐up, patients of Group SR (vs. Group OR) had a significantly higher occurrence of inducible myocardial ischemia during late (>8 weeks) stress tests (P < 0.001). Conclusions: In patients with bifurcated lesions treated by a provisional‐stenting technique, residual SB stenosis ≥ 50% at 3DQCA is associated with post‐procedural inducible myocardial ischemia at EST. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcatheter closure of an iatrogenic aorto‐right ventricular fistula
Authors: Lebreiro Ana M. , Silva João Carlos
Published: July 2011

Aortocardiac fistulas are rare, especially if they develop after an aortic valve replacement surgery. We report the case of a 54‐year‐old male submitted to aortic valve replacement and implantation of an ascending aortic prosthetic graft, complaining of exertional dyspnea, who was found to have significant shunt between the aortic root and right ventricle (RV), and de novo moderate pulmonary hypertension. At the catheterization laboratory, the left‐to‐right shunt was confirmed (Qp:Qs = 1.9:1). Contrast angiography of the ascending aorta showed a significant flow into the right ventricular cavity, and the fistulous tract was then measured, inflating a Tyshak II balloon of 10 × 20 mm (NuMED, Hopkinton, New York), until achieving a complete interruption of flow. Minimal diameter of the defect was 4.9 mm. Percutaneous closure of the aorto‐RV shunt was performed under general anesthesia and transesophageal echocardiogram and fluoroscopic guidance. Using a venous and an arterial femoral access, a 0.035″ hydrophilic guide‐wire crossed the defect between the aorta and RV, creating an arteriovenous loop. Then, using a 7F Delivery System 45° (AGA medical corporation, Golden Valley, MN) an Amplatzer Duct Occluder® (AGA Medical Corporation) 8/6 mm was advanced and released within the defect, achieving an almost complete closure of the fistulous tract. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous treatment of a femoral artery pseudoaneurysm using the StarClose vascular closure system
Authors: Jeon Yong Sun , Kim Jang Yong , Cho Soon Gu
Published: July 2011

Formation of a femoral artery pseudoaneurysm is not infrequent after femoral arterial access. We successfully treated a pseudoaneurysm of the femoral artery using the StarClose vascular closure system. Closing device can be an alternative option for the treatment of pseudoaneurysm. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanistic Studies of Fc‐PNA(⋅DNA) Surface Dynamics Based on the Kinetics of Electron‐Transfer Processes
Authors: Hüsken Nina , Gębala Magdalena , La Mantia Fabio , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Metzler‐Nolte Nils
Published: July 2011

N‐Terminally ferrocenylated and C‐terminally gold‐surface‐grafted peptide nucleic acid (PNA) strands were exploited as unique tools for the electrochemical investigation of the strand dynamics of short PNA(⋅DNA) duplexes. On the basis of the quantitative analysis of the kinetics and the diffusional characteristics of the electron‐transfer process, a nanoscopic view of the Fc‐PNA(⋅DNA) surface dynamics was obtained. Loosely packed, surface‐confined Fc‐PNA single strands were found to render the charge‐transfer process of the tethered Fc moiety diffusion‐limited, whereas surfaces modified with Fc‐PNA⋅DNA duplexes exhibited a charge‐transfer process with characteristics between the two extremes of diffusion and surface limitation. The interplay between the inherent strand elasticity and effects exerted by the electric field are supposed to dictate the probability of a sufficient approach of the Fc head group to the electrode surface, as reflected in the measured values of the electron‐transfer rate constant, k0. An in‐depth understanding of the dynamics of surface‐bound PNA and PNA⋅DNA strands is of utmost importance for the development of DNA biosensors using (Fc‐)PNA recognition layers.