bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women and Families in Early (North) America and the Wider (Atlantic) World
Authors: Wulf Karin
Published: March 2010

This article is part of a History Compass cluster on ‘Rethinking Gender, Family and Sexuality in the Early Modern Atlantic World’.

The cluster is made up of the following articles:

‘On Currents and Comparisons: Gender and the Atlantic ‘Turn’ in Spanish America’, Bianca Premo, History Compass 8.3 (2010): 223–237, doi: 10.1111/j.1478‐0542.2009.00658.x

‘Women and Families in Early (North) America and the Wider (Atlantic) World’, Karin Wulf, History Compass 8.3 (2010): 238–247, doi: 10.1111/j.1478‐0542.2009.00659.x

‘Family Matters: The Early Modern Atlantic from the European Side’, Julie Hardwick, History Compass 8.3 (2010): 248–257, doi: 10.1111/j.1478‐0542.2009.00660.x

The following essay originated as one of these three contributions to a roundtable discussion held at the 14th Berkshire Conference on the History of Women, June 2008. The roundtable, ‘Rethinking Gender, Family, and Sexuality in the Early Modern Atlantic World’, was meant to be as much invitation as inventory and was astonishingly well attended at 08:00 in the morning, with standing room only for a thoughtful, lively audience whose comments, questions and suggestions are reflected here (although in no way fully represented). As historians of gender and family in the North Atlantic, European and Iberian worlds, we had hoped to encourage more central and systematic attention to gender within the Atlantic World paradigm by cataloging some recent works in their fields and pointing the way for future studies. Yet, a funny thing happened on the way to the conference. Independently, each of us began to engage with the challenges of simply inserting family and gender into ‘the Atlantic’ as both as conceptual place and a historical practice. The essays that emerged, therefore, departed from conventional historiographies that survey the state of the field. Rather, these are theoretical and methodological reflections on the implications of de‐centering national and colonial narratives about the history of gender. At a time when transnational historical scholarship on early modern women promises to explode, these essays aim to inspire debate about the conceptual utility of the Atlantic as a paradigm for understanding issues of gender, family, and sexuality, as well as its ramifications for feminist scholarship everywhere.
Optimal Allocation of Conservation Resources to Species That May be Extinct
Authors: ROUT TRACY M. , HEINZE DEAN , McCARTHY MICHAEL A.
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  Statements of extinction will always be uncertain because of imperfect detection of species in the wild. Two errors can be made when declaring a species extinct. Extinction can be declared prematurely, with a resulting loss of protection and management intervention. Alternatively, limited conservation resources can be wasted attempting to protect a species that no longer exists. Rather than setting an arbitrary level of certainty at which to declare extinction, we argue that the decision must trade off the expected costs of both errors. Optimal decisions depend on the cost of continued intervention, the probability the species is extant, and the estimated value of management (the benefit of management times the value of the species). We illustrated our approach with three examples: the Dodo (Raphus cucullatus), the Ivory‐billed Woodpecker (U.S. subspecies Campephilus principalis principalis), and the mountain pygmy‐possum (Burramys parvus). The dodo was extremely unlikely to be extant, so managing and monitoring for it today would not be cost‐effective unless the value of management was extremely high. The probability the Ivory‐billed woodpecker is extant depended on whether recent controversial sightings were accepted. Without the recent controversial sightings, it was optimal to declare extinction of the species in 1965 at the latest. Accepting the recent controversial sightings, it was optimal to continue monitoring and managing until 2032 at the latest. The mountain pygmy‐possum is currently extant, with a rapidly declining sighting rate. It was optimal to conduct as many as 66 surveys without sighting before declaring the species extinct. The probability of persistence remained high even after many surveys without sighting because it was difficult to determine whether the species was extinct or undetected. If the value of management is high enough, continued intervention can be cost‐effective even if the species is likely to be extinct.
Predictability of Future Attacks by Migraineurs: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Hu X. Henry , Golden Wendy , Bolge Susan C. , Katic Bozena , Chen Ya‐Ting , Wagner Samuel , Cady Roger
Published: March 2010

Objective.— To determine the predictability of future migraine attacks and to describe the effect of migraine on daily life during and between migraine attacks.

Background.— Migraine is associated with substantial economic and humanistic burden. There is growing evidence that early intervention with triptans results in better treatment outcomes. However, this is dependent on a patient's preparedness for an attack including having abortive medications readily accessible at headache onset.

Methods.— Physician‐diagnosed adult migraine sufferers, who treat with prescription or over‐the‐counter medications, completed 2 self‐reported, Internet‐based questionnaires, administered at baseline and following the resolution of the next migraine attack. The baseline questionnaire included the Migraine Disability Assessment questionnaire (MIDAS), questions about experiences on days between attacks, predictions of the date, time of day (5 time windows), and sufferer's location (4 places) at the start of their next migraine. At follow‐up, information was collected in the similar fashion about the date, time of day, and sufferer's location at the start of their most recent migraine.

Results.— A total of 1519 migraine sufferers completed the baseline questionnaire and 877 (57.7%) completed the follow‐up. At baseline, 58.7% experienced moderate to severe disability from headache, based on MIDAS. Only 4.0% were able to predict the exact date of their next migraine; 21.24% predicted next migraine within 3 days. Larger proportions (46.6%) were able to accurately predict time of day or location (70.7%) of their next migraine. In the past 3 months, 92.6% reported that they were forced to change daily plans because of migraine. Because of fear of getting a migraine, 20.2% had avoided and 27.0% had changed a work commitment, and 27.3% had avoided and 28.2% had changed social plans.

Conclusions.— Migraine sufferers are generally unable to predict onset of the next migraine. Lack of predictability heightens the importance of education and preparedness for a migraine attack which may also reduce fear and anxiety between attacks.

(Headache 2010;50:1296‐1305)
Selective Inhibition of 5‐HT7 Receptor Reduces CGRP Release in an Experimental Model for Migraine
Authors: Wang Xiaojuan , Fang Yannan , Liang Jianbo , Yin Zhao , Miao Jiayin , Luo Ning
Published: March 2010

Objective.— To investigate the role of 5‐HT7 receptors on the release of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) in an animal model of migraine.

Background.— Calcitonin gene‐related peptide has been identified as a key neuropeptide in the pathophysiology of migraine. It is elevated in the external jugular vein during migraine attacks in humans and after stimulation of the trigeminal ganglion in animal models of migraine. This can be treated with the 5‐HT1B/1D receptor agonist sumatriptan concomitant with headache relief. Nevertheless, triptans, the most effective agents for the treatment of acute migraine attacks, are not effective in more than 1/3 of migraineurs and less than 50% of migraineurs achieve complete pain freedom. This indicates other serotonin receptors may be involved in the pathophysiology of migraine. Increasing evidence has shown that 5‐HT7 receptors may be involved in migraine pathogenesis. However, direct evidence for the role of 5‐HT7 receptors in migraine is still lacking.

Methods.— Unilateral electrical stimulation of the trigeminal ganglion (TGES) was performed in anesthetized male Sprague‐Dawley rats. Animals were pretreated with sumatriptan (300 µg/kg, i.v.), selective 5‐HT7 receptor antagonist SB269970 (5, 10 mg/kg, s.c.), potential 5‐HT7 receptor agonist AS19 (5, 10 mg/kg, s.c.) or co‐administration of SB269970 and AS19 (10 mg/kg, s.c.). Serum CGRP concentrations in the ipsilateral jugular vein were determined before and at 2 and 5 minutes after the start of TGES.

Results.— Our results showed that sumatriptan almost completely inhibited the release of CGRP evoked by TGES. Pre‐administration of SB269970 (5, 10 mg/kg) caused a significant decrease in serum CGRP concentrations at 2 and 5 minutes following the onset of TGES, with a less inhibitory effect compared with sumatriptan. AS19 had no significant effect on CGRP release, while the SB269970‐induced inhibitory effect was reversed by AS19.

Conclusions.— Selective inhibition of 5‐HT7 receptors partly reduced CGRP release evoked by TGES. These findings suggest that 5‐HT7 receptors may play a role in the pathophysiology of migraine.

(Headache 2010;50:579‐587)
Partially Reversible Cortical Metabolic Dysfunction in Familial Hemiplegic Migraine With Prolonged Aura
Authors: Guedj Eric , Belenotti Pauline , Serratrice Jacques , Ene Nicoleta , Pineau Sandrine , Donnet Anne , Mundler Olivier , Weiller Pierre‐Jean
Published: March 2010

We report a SPECT and PET voxel‐based analysis of cerebral blood flow and metabolic rate for glucose in a 23‐year‐old woman with familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) caused by ATP1A2 gene mutation. In comparison with healthy subjects, a PET scan showed brain glucose hypometabolism, controlaterally to the hemiplegia, in the perisylvian area early in the attack (Day 1), without any SPECT perfusion abnormalities. Decrease in metabolic rate was only partially reversible at Day 78, concordant at this time with a remaining hemisensory loss. These findings provide further evidence for a primary cortical metabolic dysfunction in FHM.
Reversible Hypohidrosis With Topiramate Therapy for Chronic Migraine
Authors: Markowitz Shira Y. , Robbins Matthew S. , Cascella Clair , Sheikh Huma U. , Grosberg Brian M.
Published: March 2010

Topiramate is an anticonvulsant medication that is widely used for migraine prophylaxis. Hypohidrosis and hyperthermia are 2 rare adverse effects of topiramate treatment, which have mainly occurred in pediatric epilepsy patients. Herein, we describe the first case of reversible hypohidrosis in an adult patient treated with topiramate for chronic migraine.
Relationship Between Childhood Physical Maltreatment and Migraine in Adolescents
Authors: Fuh Jong‐Ling , Wang Shuu‐Jiun , Juang Kai‐Dih , Lu Shiang‐Ru , Liao Yi‐Chu , Chen Shih‐Pin
Published: March 2010

(Headache 2010;50:761‐768)

Objective.— To study the relationship between childhood physical abuse and migraine in adolescents.

Background.— Childhood maltreatment might lead to an increased probability of migraine among adults. Nevertheless, the relationship between migraine and childhood abuse is unknown in adolescents.

Methods.— We enrolled 3955 students, ages 13‐15, from 3 middle schools. Each participant completed a valided headache questionnaire for headache diagnosis and the Adolescent Depression Inventory (ADI). A classification of physical maltreatment was given to students who reported they had been beaten by parents or elder family members.

Results.— A total of 926 (23.4%) students were diagnosed with migraine or probable migraine occurring within the 3 months prior to the survey. Physical maltreatment was reported by 945 (23.9%) students, including a frequency of “rarely” in 762 (19.3%) students and “sometimes or often” in 183 (4.6%). The students reporting physical maltreatment were more likely to suffer migraine or probable migraine compared with those who reported no physical maltreatment (30.3% vs 21.3%, odds ratios = 1.6, 95%, CI: 1.4‐1.9, P < .001). A higher frequency of physical maltreatment was associated with a higher likelihood of migraine diagnosis (21.3% vs 28.3%, vs 38.3%, “never” vs “rarely” vs “sometimes or often maltreated,” respectively, P < .001). In addition, among the students diagnosed with migraine, those reporting physical maltreatment had higher mean ADI scores, a higher frequency of headaches, and a greater proportion of severe headaches.

Conclusions.— The results suggest that physical maltreatment is associated with migraine in adolescents and that physical maltreatment may be related to an increase in the frequency and intensity of headaches in adolescents with migraines. A history of physical maltreatment may be helpful in the treatment of adolescents suffering from migraine.
Variant Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease in a transfusion recipient: coincidence or cause?
Authors: Chohan Gurjit , Llewelyn Charlotte , Mackenzie Jan , Cousens Simon , Kennedy Angus , Will Robert , Hewitt Patricia
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: To date there have been four instances of infection transmitted through blood transfusions derived from individuals who later developed variant Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (vCJD). The identification of further transmission of vCJD through this route would have important implications for risk assessment and public health.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Through the UK Transfusion Medicine Epidemiology Review (TMER) the fate of blood donations from individuals who develop vCJD is traced and recipients of labile components are identified. The details of recipients are cross‐checked with the register of vCJD cases held at the National CJD Surveillance Unit (NCJDSU) to identify any linkage between donors and recipients. In the reverse study, when individuals with vCJD are found to have a history of blood transfusion the donors of the transfused blood components are traced and their details cross‐checked with the vCJD register to identify any missed or unrecognized linkage between donors and recipients.

CASE REPORT: A case of vCJD has been identified with a history of blood transfusion in infancy. The donors who provided the components transfused cannot be identified, but a blood donor known to have donated blood to another individual who subsequently developed vCJD could have been a donor to the index case.

RESULTS: The at‐risk donor is alive 20 years after the relevant donation and continued to donate for some years, until identified as at risk, with 27 other blood components issued for use in patients, none of whom are known to have developed vCJD.

CONCLUSION: Circumstantial evidence has raised the possibility that the case in this report represents a further instance of transfusion transmission of vCJD. However, detailed investigation indicates that the pattern of events may have occurred by chance and disease in this individual may have been caused by transmission of bovine spongiform encephalopathy infection, as is the presumed cause in other primary cases of vCJD.
Iron chelation therapy associated with improvement of hematopoiesis in transfusion‐dependent patients
Authors: Oliva Esther Natalie , Ronco Francesca , Marino Antonio , Alati Caterina , Praticò Giulia , Nobile Francesco
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: It is well known that iron overload may cause multiple organ failure. In chronically transfused patients, optimal iron chelation therapy is associated with reduced morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, chelation therapy has been associated with erythroid responses.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Among chronically transfused adults affected by myeloproliferative neoplasms and treated with iron chelators, two case reports are described.

CASE REPORT: A male adult patient with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and a female adult with aplastic anemia (AA), both transfusion‐dependent, were treated with deferasirox, an oral iron chelator.

RESULTS: A significant reduction in transfusion requirement was observed and was dependent on chelation therapy. The patient affected by AA also experienced a significant increase in hemoglobin levels. Minimal doses of deferasirox maintained the erythroid responses. Many mechanisms of action of the drug on erythropoiesis have been postulated. The early erythroid response seems to be independent of the removal of iron from deposits, per se, since the reduction of ferritin levels (a surrogate marker of iron deposits) below threshold levels occurs as a later event.

CONCLUSION: Although there are few reports on erythroid responses in patients undergoing iron chelation therapy, they may give new insights in the pathogenesis of MDS and other myeloproliferative neoplasms. AA may benefit in terms of erythroid response. The findings in these cases underline the clinical importance of treating patients with iron overload. A survival benefit of chelation in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms is still to be confirmed.
Dual Identities in Social Ventures: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Moss Todd W. , Short Jeremy C. , Payne G. Tyge , Lumpkin G.T.
Published: March 2010

Drawing on the organizational identity literature, this exploratory study examines the dual identities of award–winning social ventures recognized by FastCompany magazine and the Skoll Foundation. Specifically, we use computer–assisted content analysis to explore identities as reflected in organizational mission statements. Our findings demonstrate that these externally recognized social ventures do exhibit dual identities—a utilitarian organizational identity (i.e., entrepreneurial, product oriented) and a normative organizational identity (i.e., social, people oriented). Further, when compared with the mission statements of other high–performing entrepreneurial enterprises culled from the Inc. 500, our post hoc analysis suggests that social ventures manifest a greater normative identity and an equivalent utilitarian identity.
Diminished Cardiac Fibrosis in Heart Failure is Associated with Altered Ventricular Arrhythmia Phenotype
Authors: MASSARE JORGE , BERRY JEFF M. , LUO XIANG , ROB FARHANA , JOHNSTONE JANET L. , SHELTON JOHN M. , BASSEL‐DUBY RHONDA , HILL JOSEPH A. , NASEEM R. HARIS
Published: March 2010

Diminished Ventricular Fibrosis and Tachyarrhythmias. Objectives: We sought to define the role of interstitial fibrosis in the proarrhythmic phenotype of failing ventricular myocardium.

Background: Multiple cellular events that occur during pathological remodeling of the failing ventricle are implicated in the genesis of ventricular tachycardia (VT), including interstitial fibrosis. Recent studies suggest that ventricular fibrosis is reversible, and current anti‐remodeling therapies attenuate ventricular fibrosis. However, the role of interstitial fibrosis in the proarrhythmic phenotype of failing ventricular myocardium is currently not well defined.

Methods: Class II histone deacetylases (HDACs) have been implicated in promoting collagen biosynthesis. As these enzymes are inhibited by protein kinase D1 (PKD1), we studied mice with cardiomyocyte‐specific transgenic over‐expression of a constitutively active mutant of PKD1 (caPKD). caPKD mice were compared with animals in which cardiomyopathy was induced by severe thoracic aortic banding (sTAB). Hearts were analyzed by echocardiographic and electrocardiographic means. Interstitial fibrosis was assessed by histology and quantified biochemically. Ventricular arrhythmias were induced by closed‐chest, intracardiac pacing.

Results: Similar degrees of hypertrophic growth, systolic dysfunction and mortality were observed in the two models. In sTAB mice, robust ventricular fibrosis was readily detected, but myocardial collagen content was significantly reduced in caPKD mice. As expected, VT was readily inducible by programmed stimulation in sTAB mice and VT was less inducible in caPKD mice. Surprisingly, episodes of VT manifested longer cycle lengths and longer duration in caPKD mice.

Conclusion: Attenuated ventricular fibrosis is associated with reduced VT inducibility, increased VT duration, and significantly longer arrhythmia cycle length. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1031‐1037, September 2010)
Beta‐Blocker Efficacy in High‐Risk Patients with the Congenital Long‐QT Syndrome Types 1 and 2: Implications for Patient Management
Authors: GOLDENBERG ILAN , BRADLEY JAMES , MOSS ARTHUR , MCNITT SCOTT , POLONSKY SLAVA , ROBINSON JENNIFER L. , ANDREWS MARK , ZAREBA WOJCIECH ,   on behalf of the International LQTS Registry Investigators
Published: March 2010

β‐Blockers for LQTS Types 1 and 2. Background: Beta‐blockers are the mainstay therapy in patients with the congenital long‐QT syndrome (LQTS) types 1 and 2. However, limited data exist regarding the efficacy and limitations of this form of medical management within high‐risk subsets of these populations.

Methods and Results: Multivariate analysis was carried out to identify age‐related gender‐ and genotype‐specific risk factors for cardiac events (comprising syncope, aborted cardiac arrest [ACA] or sudden cardiac death [SCD]) from birth through age 40 years among 971 LQT1 (n = 549) and LQT2 (n = 422) patients from the International LQTS Registry. Risk factors for cardiac events included the LQT1 genotype (HR = 1.49, P = 0.003) and male gender (HR = 1.31, P = 0.04) in the 0–14 years age group; and the LQT2 genotype (HR = 1.67, P < 0.001) and female gender (HR = 2.58, P < 0.001) in the 15–40 years age group. Gender–genotype subset analysis showed enhanced risk among LQT1 males (HR = 1.93, P < 0.001) and LQT2 females (HR = 3.28, P < 0.001) in the 2 respective age groups. Beta‐blocker therapy was associated with a significant risk‐reduction in high‐risk patients, including a 67% reduction (P = 0.02) in LQT1 males and a 71% reduction (P < 0.001) in LQT2 females. Life‐threatening events (ACA/SCD) rarely occurred as a presenting symptom among beta‐blocker‐treated patients. However, high‐risk patients who experienced syncope during beta‐blocker therapy had a relatively high rate of subsequent ACA/SCD (>1 event per 100 patient‐years).

Conclusions: The present findings suggest that beta‐blocker therapy should be routinely administered to all high‐risk LQT1 and LQT2 patients without contraindications as a first line measure, whereas primary defibrillator therapy should be recommended for those who experience syncope during medical therapy. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 893‐901, August 2010)
Preferred QT Correction Formula for the Assessment of Drug‐Induced QT Interval Prolongation
Authors: CHILADAKIS JOHN , KALOGEROPOULOS ANDREAS , ARVANITIS PANAGIOTIS , KOUTSOGIANNIS NIKOLAOS , ZAGLI FANI , ALEXOPOULOS DIMITRIOS
Published: March 2010

Drug‐Induced QTc Interval Assessment. Introduction: There is debate on the optimal QT correction method to determine the degree of the drug‐induced QT interval prolongation in relation to heart rate (ΔQTc).

Methods: Forty‐one patients (71 ± 10 years) without significant heart disease who had baseline normal QT interval with narrow QRS complexes and had been implanted with dual‐chamber pacemakers were subsequently started on antiarrhythmic drug therapy. The QTc formulas of Bazett, Fridericia, Framingham, Hodges, and Nomogram were applied to assess the effect of heart rate (baseline, atrial pacing at 60 beats/min, 80 beats/min, and 100 beats/min) on the derived ΔQTc (QTc before and during antiarrhythmic therapy).

Results: Drug treatment reduced the heart rate (P < 0.001) and increased the QT interval (P < 0.001). The heart rate increase shortened the QT interval (P < 0.001) and prolonged the QTc interval (P < 0.001) by the use of all correction formulas before and during antiarrhythmic therapy. All formulas gave at 60 beats/min similar ΔQTc of 43 ± 28 ms. At heart rates slower than 60 beats/min, the Bazett and Framingham methods provided the most underestimated ΔQTc values (14 ± 32 ms and 18 ± 34 ms, respectively). At heart rates faster than 60 beats/min, the Bazett and Fridericia methods yielded the most overestimated ΔQTc values, whereas the other 3 formulas gave similar ΔQTc increases of 32 ± 28 ms.

Conclusions: Bazett's formula should be avoided to assess ΔQTc at heart rates distant from 60 beats/min. The Hodges formula followed by the Nomogram method seem most appropriate in assessing ΔQTc. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 905‐913, August 2010)
Esophageal Endoscopy Results After Pulmonary Vein Isolation Using the Single Big Cryoballoon Technique
Authors: FÜRNKRANZ ALEXANDER , CHUN K.R. JULIAN , METZNER ANDREAS , NUYENS DIETER , SCHMIDT BORIS , BURCHARD ANDRE , TILZ ROLAND , OUYANG FEIFAN , KUCK KARL HEINZ
Published: March 2010

Esophageal Effects of Single Big Cryoballoon PVI. Introduction: Reversible esophageal thermal lesions after cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (CB‐PVI) have been reported when using variable balloon sizes. The aim of this study was to investigate (1) the incidence of esophageal thermal lesions, and (2) esophageal temperature changes associated with CB‐PVI using the single big cryoballoon technique.

Methods and Results:
Thirty‐eight patients with atrial fibrillation underwent successful CB‐PVI using only the 28 mm cryoballoon. Luminal esophageal temperature (LET) was continuously monitored by 3 thermocouples. Fluoroscopic distance from cryoballoon to esophagus probe was retrospectively evaluated in RAO 30° and LAO 40° projections. All patients underwent postprocedural esophageal endoscopy. Average minimal LET was lower during freezing at inferior PVs, when compared to superior PVs: 35.4 ± 0.9 (range: 32.6 to 37.4; RSPV); 31.5 ± 7.5 (2.5 to 37.6; RIPV); 32.9 ± 5.2 (8.5 to 36.5; LSPV); and 30.3 ± 8.4°C (−6 to 36.7°C; LIPV); P = 0.001. We found steep temperature gradients over distance (1) from the cryoballoon center (LETs < 10°C confined to a distance of < 15 mm in both RAO 30° and LAO 40° projections), and (2) along the esophagus long axis, underscoring the need for multiple measurement sites. None of the patients showed esophageal thermal lesions at endoscopy after 3 ± 1 (range 1–7) days. No AEF occurred during a follow‐up of 125 ± 78 days.

Conclusion:
In a cohort of AF patients treated by the single big cryoballoon technique, CB‐PVI was not associated with thermal esophageal lesions. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 869‐874, August 2010)
Recanalization of Complex Coronary Chronic Total Occlusions Using High‐Frequency Vibrational Energy CROSSER Catheter as First‐Line Therapy: A Single Center Experience
Authors: GALASSI ALFREDO R , TOMASELLO SALVATORE D. , COSTANZO LUCA , CAMPISANO MARIA B. , MARZÀ FRANCESCO , TAMBURINO CORRADO
Published: March 2010

Background: Several studies have illustrated the safety and the procedural outcome of high‐frequency vibrational energy in guidewire refractory chronic total occlusions (CTOs).

Aim: To evaluate the advantage of high‐frequency vibrational energy device (CROSSER Catheter) use in coronary complex CTO revascularization as primary strategy.

Methods: CROSSER was used as a primary approach if four or more unfavorable angiographic features were observed in the CTO lesions.

Results: From May 2007 to February 2009, a CTO percutaneous intervention attempt was performed in 178 lesions of 171 patients (60.1 ± 8.9 age with 49.4 ± 7.2% in ejection fraction). Among these, the CROSSER was used in 46 complex CTO lesions of 45 patients (25.8% of cases) and in the remaining cases, typical CTO percutaneous coronary intervention techniques were employed. Clinical success was 84.8% in CROSSER group. Moreover, in the CROSSER group, no periprocedural myocardial infarction, perforation, or 30 days MACE was observed. In addition, the use of CROSSER was associated with lower time of procedure, time of fluoroscopy, and contrast load administration as compared with conventional techniques [88 ± 27 minutes vs 109 ± 38 minutes (P = 0.045), 39 ± 12 minutes vs 50 ± 27 minutes (P = 0.032), and 334 ± 122cc vs 408 ± 198cc (P = 0.05), respectively].

Conclusion: In the present study, the CROSSER System was safe and obtained a high rate of success in complex CTO similar to conventional dedicated guidewire techniques for noncomplex CTO; however, the CROSSER Catheter obtained CTO recanalization with lower contrast load administration, less time of procedure, and lower fluoroscopy exposure. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:130‐138)
Outcomes of Patients with Coronary Artery Perforation Complicating Percutaneous Coronary Intervention and Correlations with the Type of Adjunctive Antithrombotic Therapy: Pooled Analysis from REPLACE‐2, ACUITY, and HORIZONS‐AMI Trials. Heparin Only Should be Considered for Lesions at High Risk For Perforation
Authors: MOVAHED MOHAMMAD‐REZA
Published: March 2010

(J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:203)
The Paclitaxel‐Eluting Coroflex™ Stent Study II (PECOPS II) Acute and 6‐Month Clinical and Angiographic Follow‐Up, 1‐Year Clinical Follow‐Up
Authors: WIEMER MARCUS , DEGENHARDT RALF , VALLBRACHT CHRISTIAN , HORSTKOTTE DIETER , SCHNEIDER HENRIK , NIENABER CHRISTOPH , BOCKSCH WOLFGANG , BOXBERGER MICHAEL , UNVERDORBEN MARTIN ,   for the PECOPS II Investigators
Published: March 2010

Background and Objectives: Paclitaxel‐coated stents have proven their efficacy for reducing restenosis in de novo coronary artery lesions and in‐stent restenoses with superiority compared to bare metal stents. This study was performed to evaluate the procedural and 1 year results of the Paclitaxel‐eluting Coroflex™ Please stent in coronary artery lesions.

Methods: One‐hundred and twenty‐nine patients (66.2 ± 8.2 years, 31.0% diabetics, 20.2% unstable angina, 41.8% multivessel disease) were enrolled per protocol for elective single stent deployment into native de novo or post‐PTCA restenotic coronary lesions.The mean reference diameter was 2.84 ± 0.43 mm, the lesion length 12.51 ± 4.6 mm, and the minimal lumen diameter 0.75 ± 0.29 mm. Follow‐up was performed clinically in 129/129 (100%) after 6 and 12 months and angiographically in 120/129 (93%) patients after 6 months.

Results: The success rates of the procedure and deployment were 100% and 95.3%, respectively. The in‐stent late loss and the late‐loss index were 0.27 ± 0.59 mm and 0.17 ± 0.40 resulting in binary in‐stent restenoses in 16/120 (13.3%) subjects and in‐segment restenoses in 20/120 (16.7%) subjects. Major adverse cardiac events occurred in 23/129 (17.8%) during the first 6 months of follow‐up with 3/129 (2.3%) myocardial infarctions, 1/129 (0.8%) secondary to stent thrombosis. From 6 to 12 months, 2/129 (1.6%) nonlesion related PCI were performed.

Conclusion: The data of the Paclitaxel‐eluting Coroflex™ Please stent evaluated in PECOPS II are within the range of the other currently available Paclitaxel‐eluting stent. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:160‐166)
The Chemical Interaction of Silver–Palladium Alloy Electrodes with Bismuth‐Based Piezomaterials
Authors: Schuetz Denis , Krauss Werner , Albering Joerg , Kurta Christoph , Reichmann Klaus
Published: March 2010

Multilayer technology relies heavily on the chemical compatibility of metal and ceramic. This work focuses on the ceramic–electrode interaction between 92Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–6 BaTiO3–2K0.5Na0.5NbO3 [(Bi0.46Na0.47Ba0.06K0.01)(Nb0.02Ti0.98)O3], a promising actuator material and forerunner to an emerging class of lead‐free actuator materials, and a silver–palladium alloy for inner electrodes, the only currently viable material for the firing temperatures necessary (1100°C). Of special concern was the high content of bismuth in the ceramic since prior investigations suggest that Bi2O3 (as well as various bismuth titanates) used as a fluxor in electroceramics are prone to forming the intermediate‐phase bismuth palladate (Bi2PdO4), which can lead to poor contacting and delamination of multilayer stacks. Remarkably, no evidence of bismuth palladate formation could be found. However, the phase relations of the bulk ceramic have proven to be quite complex. Potassium was being drained out of the bulk ceramic either constituting the secondary phase K4Na2(TiO3)3 in unmodified experiments or evaporating and being replaced by silver in samples in contact with Ag. Mechanisms for the formation of these phases or the lack thereof are proposed. These findings were obtained by XRD, TG‐DSC, and SEM with EDX, and LA‐ICPMS.
Simulation of Thermoelectric Performance of Bulk SrTiO3 with Two‐Dimensional Electron Gas Grain Boundaries
Authors: Zhang Rui‐zhi , Wang Chun‐lei , Li Ji‐chao , Koumoto Kunihito
Published: March 2010

Density functional theory calculations and Boltzmann transport theory are used to simulate the thermoelectric properties of SrTiO3 ceramics with two‐dimensional electron gas grain boundaries (GBs). This material can achieve a large thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT>1 at room temperature) by utilizing quantum confinement and energy filtering at GBs. The latter causes the ZT value to reach a maximum before decreasing with an increasing GB barrier height. The optimum barrier height was approximately 0.06 eV higher than the Fermi energy of the grain interior. Our results may aid the design of materials with environmentally benign thermoelectric oxides.
Low‐Temperature Aging Degradation‐Free 3Y‐TZP/Nb Composites
Authors: Gutiérrez‐González Carlos F. , Moya José S. , Palomares Francisco J. , Bartolomé José F.
Published: March 2010

In the current work, 3Y‐YZP strengthened with lamellar flaky shape Nb metal particles was obtained by a hot press at 1400°C for 1 h. This composite is unaffected by the low‐temperature degradation, humidity‐enhanced phase transformation typical of yttria‐stabilized zirconia polycrystalline ceramic. The destructive phase transformation is dramatically reduced by the presence of a solid solution of Nb2O5 into the 3Y‐TZP matrix. This new 3Y‐TZP/Nb composite exhibits an optimal combination of “aging free” and crack growth resistance never attained before.
Hertzian Indentation of a ZrB2–30% SiC Ultra‐High‐Temperature Ceramic up to 800°C in Air
Authors: Zamora Victor , Sánchez‐González Estíbaliz , Ortiz Angel L. , Miranda Pedro , Guiberteau Fernando
Published: March 2010

The contact mechanical properties of the ZrB2–30% SiC ultra‐high‐temperature ceramic (UHTC) were studied from room temperature up to 800°C in air, by combining Hertzian indentation tests with finite element modeling. It was found that the elastic modulus and yield stress decrease with increasing temperature, especially above 600°C. It was also found that the ZrB2–30% SiC UHTC is “ductile” in the sense that its first damage mode is quasiplasticity, followed by cone cracking, and eventually by radial cracking. However, its contact‐damage resistance degrades as the temperature increases, again especially above 600°C. Nevertheless, it is highly damage tolerant because the critical loads for radial cracking are one order of magnitude greater than these for quasiplasticity. This is the first report on the temperature dependence of the Hertzian indentation of UHTCs, whose study is necessary if they are to be used in aerospace applications.
A New Method to Improve the High‐Temperature Mechanical Properties of Ti3SiC2by Substituting Ti with Zr, Hf, or Nb
Authors: Wan De‐Tian , He Ling‐Feng , Zheng Li‐Li , Zhang Jie , Bao Yi‐Wang , Zhou Yan‐Chun
Published: March 2010

Ti3SiC2shows a unique combination of the properties of both metals and ceramics. However, its stiffness and strength lose rapidly above 1050°C, which is the main obstacle for the high‐temperature application of this material. To improve the high‐temperature mechanical properties of Ti3SiC2, Zr, Hf, or Nb were used as dopants in Ti3(SiAl)C2. At room temperature, the Zr‐, Hf‐, or Nb‐doped Ti3(SiAl)C2ceramics have comparable stiffness, hardness, strength, and fracture toughness with those of Ti3(SiAl)C2. At high temperatures, however, a significant improvement in stiffness and strength has been achieved for (Ti1−xTx)3(SiAl)C2(T=Zr, Hf, or Nb). (Ti1−xTx)3(SiAl)C2can retain high degrees of stiffness and strength up to 1200°C, which is 150°C higher than those for Ti3(SiAl)C2.
The Relative Energies of Normally and Abnormally Growing Grain Boundaries in Alumina Displaying Different Complexions
Authors: Dillon Shen J. , Harmer Martin P. , Rohrer Gregory S.
Published: March 2010

Chemically induced grain‐boundary structural transitions are well documented in a number of ceramic systems. It has been hypothesized that transitions between distinct structural states, referred to as complexions, are driven by a reduction in the free energy of the grain boundaries. The current work tests this hypothesis by measuring the relative energies of boundaries on normal grains and abnormal grains in the same microstructure, which are known to have different complexions. The complexion transition from the most ordered state reduces the average grain‐boundary energy by up to 45%. Similar changes in the energy are not observed for cases when the initial state is a higher order complexion that is more disordered. The results indicate that complexion transitions are influenced by both the change in free energy and the activation energy of the transition and that the dominant factor depends on the specific transition.
Correlation Between Resistance Degradation and Thermally Stimulated Depolarization Current in Acceptor (Mg)‐Doped BaTiO3 Submicrometer Fine‐Grain Ceramics
Authors: Yoon Seok‐Hyun , Randall Clive A. , Hur Kang‐Heon
Published: March 2010

Thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) of acceptor (Mg)‐doped BaTiO3 ceramics was analyzed for submicrometer fine grain specimens. For a fixed condition of polarization field (EP) and polarization time (tP), the TSDC associated with an oxygen vacancy

relaxation showed two peaks with relaxation temperatures (Tm) under low polarization temperature (TP) conditions. It is inferred that the TSDC peak of the lower Tm is due to the relaxation of a

distributed space charge within a grain and has a short relaxation time constant (τ0), and the higher Tm is due to the long‐range relaxation across grain boundaries with a larger time constant, τ0. The onset condition for resistance degradation can be correlated with the breaking point of TP, at which the TSDC peak changes from in‐grain relaxation to across‐grain boundary relaxation. The breaking point of TP and the time to degradation systematically decreased with the increase of acceptor concentration. Such behavior can be correlated with the decrease of TP, Tm, τ0, and little change of activation energy of

relaxation, which is due to the increase of

concentration.
Novel Y2−xPrxRu2O7 (x=0–2) Pyrochlore Oxides Prepared Using a Soft Chemistry Route and their Electrical Properties
Authors: Abate Chiara , Esposito Vincenzo , Duncan Keith , Nino Juan C. , Gattia Daniele Mirabile , Wachsman Eric D. , Traversa Enrico
Published: March 2010

Y2−xPrxRu2O7 (0≤x≤2) pyrochlore powders were prepared using a precipitation method, which allowed control of their composition and morphology. Materials structure and morphology were characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy, respectively. All the synthesized powders exhibited a single pyrochlore phase with particle size depending on the Pr content. Powders with Pr content smaller than 25 mol% were nanometric. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed a mixed oxidation state of both Pr and Ru, and a variation of the oxidation state of the elements in response to oxygen partial pressure changes. Electrical conductivity measurements were performed by dc 4‐probe method at several temperatures, showing that increasing the Pr content in the A site of the pyrochlore structure increased the oxide electrical conductivity.
Large Electro‐Optic Effect in La‐Doped 0.75Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.25PbTiO3 Transparent Ceramic by Two‐Stage Sintering
Authors: Ruan Wei , Li Guorong , Zeng Jiangtao , Bian Jianjiang , Kamzina Liudmila S. , Zeng Huarong , Zheng Liaoying , Ding Aili
Published: March 2010

Highly transparent ceramics of La‐doped 0.75Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.25PbTiO3 were fabricated by a two‐stage sintering method from conventional raw materials. The ceramics exhibited a transparency as high as 65% for the infrared wavelength. Large quadratic electro‐optic coefficient of 66 × 10−16 (m/v)2 was obtained, which was the highest value reported so far in Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 ceramics. The ferroelectric phase inducing the threshold electric field Eth and the domain structure of the transparent ceramics were studied.
Dermatitis from common ivy (Hedera helix L. subsp. helix) in Europe: past, present, and future
Authors: Paulsen Evy , Christensen Lars P. , Andersen Klaus E.
Published: March 2010

Common ivy (Hedera helix subsp. helix) is a well‐known native and ornamental plant in Europe. Reports on contact dermatitis from ivy have regularly appeared since 1899. Recently, it has been suggested that allergic contact dermatitis from the plant may be under‐diagnosed, partly due to lack of commercial patch test allergens. The objective of the article is to present the results of aimed patch testing with the main common ivy allergen, falcarinol, during a 16‐year period and review the newer literature. Consecutive patients tested with falcarinol 0.03% petrolatum from May 1993 to May 2009 were included. Cases published since 1987 were retrieved from the PubMed database. One hundred and twenty‐seven Danish patients were tested with falcarinol and 10 (7.9%) tested positive. Seven were occupationally sensitized. Between 1994 and 2009, 28 new cases of contact dermatitis from ivy were reported, 2 of which were occupational. Only 11 of the 28 patients were tested with pure allergens. Falcarinol is not only widely distributed in the ivy family, but also in the closely related Apiaceae. Sensitization may occur in childhood or in adults pruning ivy plants or handling them in an occupational setting. In view of the ubiquity of falcarinol‐containing plants and the relatively high prevalence of positive reactions in aimed patch testing, falcarinol should be the next plant allergen to be commercially available and included in the plant series worldwide.
Accumulation of IL‐17‐Positive Cells in Decidua of Inevitable Abortion Cases
Authors: Nakashima Akitoshi , Ito Mika , Shima Tomoko , Bac Nguyen Duy , Hidaka Takao , Saito Shigeru
Published: March 2010

Citation Nakashima A, Ito M, Shima T, Bac ND, Hidaka T, Saito S. Accumulation of IL‐17‐positive cells in decidua of inevitable abortion cases. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010

Problem  Th17 cells, a new subset of helper T cells, have been focused on as a producer pro‐inflammatory cytokines. It is, however, still unknown how Th17 cells affect pregnancy outcome. We investigated the expression of IL‐17‐producing cells in human spontaneous abortion.

Method of study  IL‐17 expression was analyzed in decidual tissues among normal pregnancy, missed abortion, and inevitable abortion cases by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry.

Results  IL‐17+ cells were accumulated in decidua and were detected in decidual CD4+ T cells and few decidual CD8+ T cells in spontaneous abortion cases. The number of decidual IL‐17+ cells in inevitable abortion cases involving active genital bleeding was significantly higher than that in normal pregnancy cases (P < 0.05). On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the numbers of decidual IL‐17+ cells between missed abortion cases and normal pregnancy subjects. Furthermore, the number of IL‐17+ cells was positively correlated with the number of neutrophils in spontaneous abortion cases.

Conclusion  IL‐17+ cells might be involved in the induction of inflammation in the late stage of abortion, but not in the early stage of abortion.
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Trophoblast Cells by Human Endometrial Endothelial Cells Induces Proinflammatory Cytokine Production
Authors: Peng Bing , Koga Kaori , Cardenas Ingrid , Aldo Paulomi , Mor Gil
Published: March 2010

Citation Peng B, Koga K, Cardenas I, Aldo P, Mor G. Phagocytosis of apoptotic trophoblast cells by human endometrial endothelial cells induces proinflammatory cytokine production. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 64: 12–19

Problem  Apoptosis is a normal constituent of trophoblast turnover in the placenta; however in some cases, this process is related to pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. Recognition and engulfment of these apoptotic trophoblast cells is important for clearance of dying cells. The aim of this study was to show the cross talk between human endometrial endothelial cells (HEECs) and apoptotic trophoblast cells in an in vitro coculture model and its effect on cytokine production by HEECs.

Method of study  Fluorescent‐labeled HEECs were cocultured with fluorescent‐labeled apoptotic human trophoblast cells. Confocal microscopy and flowcytometry were used to show the interaction between these two types of cells. Cytokine profiles were determined using multiplex analysis.

Results  HEECs are capable to phagocytose apoptotic trophoblasts. This activity is inhibited by the phagocytosis inhibitor cytochalasin B. Phagocytosis of apoptotic trophoblast cells induced the secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin‐6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 by HEECs.

Conclusion  This study provides the first evidence that HEECs have an ability to phagocytose apoptotic trophoblasts. Furthermore, we demonstrated an inflammatory response of HEECs after phagocytosing the apoptotic trophoblast cells. This event may contribute to the inflammatory response in both normal pregnancy and pathologic pregnancy such as preeclampsia.
Faecal calprotectin concentrations in children with functional gastrointestinal disorders diagnosed according to the Pediatric Rome III criteria
Authors: Flagstad G , Helgeland H , Markestad T
Published: March 2010

Objective:  To determine if faecal calprotectin concentrations vary with different entities of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) in children.

Methods:  Children (4–15 years) who were consecutively referred by general practitioners to four general paediatric outpatient clinics for the evaluation of recurrent abdominal pain were assessed according to a research protocol which included clinical examination, a minimum set of blood, urine and stool tests, and clinical reassessment after 6–9 months. The diagnoses of FGID were based on the parent version of the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms‐Rome III.

Results:  Of the 152 patients included, 142 children were diagnosed with FGID. Of these, 126 (89%) provided a stool specimen for quantification of calprotectin. The median calprotectin concentrations were at or lower than 16 mg/kg which was at the lower detection limit and there were no differences between the FGID subgroups. Nine children (7%) had slightly raised values.

Conclusion:  The faecal calprotectin concentration is within normal limits in FGID and does not vary with different FGID entities suggesting that bowel inflammation is not a significant part of the pathogenesis in FGID.