bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General static load‐carrying capacity of four‐contact‐point slewing bearings for wind turbine generator actuation systems
Authors: Aguirrebeitia Josu , Plaza Jon , Abasolo Mikel , Vallejo Javier
Published: July 2012

Four‐contact‐point slewing bearings are widely used in wind turbine generators (WTGs) to adjust the orientation of the blades and the nacelle to fully exploit wind resources. These bearings must withstand static and fatigue loads; however, at the first stages of the design process, the bearings are commonly selected by considering only static loads. This paper presents a further step of a previous theoretical work published by the authors in the field of the static load‐carrying capacity of four‐contact‐point slewing bearings under axial, radial and tilting‐moment loads. In that work, a generalization of the works by Sjoväll and Rumbarger was presented, providing an acceptance surface of the bearing in the load space. The contact angle of the balls was assumed to be load independent. The present work improves that development by considering the influence of the variability of the contact angle with the applied load, and as a result, the acceptance surface has been redefined. By comparing the results with those of the finite element model published by the authors, it is proven that the new model presented in this work is more realistic than the previous one. Thus, it is believed that this methodology can be easily applied for the initial selection of blade and yaw bearings in WTGs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comment on holographic Luttinger theorem
Authors: Hashimoto Koji , Iizuka Norihiro
Published: July 2012

Abstract

Robustness of the Luttinger theorem for fermionic liquids is examined in holography. The statement of the Luttinger theorem, the equality between the fermion charge density and the volume enclosed by the Fermi surface, can be mapped to a Gauss’s law in the gravity dual,a laSachdev. We show that various deformations in the gravity dual, such as inclusion of magnetic fields, a parity-violatingθ-term, dilatonic deformations, and higher-derivative corrections, do not violate the holographic derivation of the Luttinger theorem, as long as the theory is in a confining phase. Therefore a robustness of the theorem is found for strongly correlated fermions coupled with strongly coupled sectors which admit gravity duals. On the other hand, in the deconfined phase, we also show that the deficit appearing in the Luttinger theorem is again universal. It measures a total deficit which measures the charge of the deconfined (“fractionalized”) fermions, independent of the deformation parameters.
Wavefunctions and the point of E
8 in F-theory
Authors: Palti Eran
Published: July 2012

Abstract

In F-theory GUTs interactions between fields are typically localised at points of enhanced symmetry in the internal dimensions implying that the coefficient of the associated operator can be studied using a local wavefunctions overlap calculation. Some F-theory SU(5) GUT theories may exhibit a maximum symmetry enhancement at a point to E
8, and in this case all the operators of the theory can be associated to the same point. We take initial steps towards the study of operators in such theories. We calculate wavefunctions and their overlaps around a general point of enhancement and establish constraints on the local form of the fluxes. We then apply the general results to a simple model at a point of E
8 enhancement and calculate some example operators such as Yukawa couplings and dimension-five couplings that can lead to proton decay.
Bi-Polar: College Education and Loans to Small Businesses Headed by Black Females
Authors: Gray John W.
Published: July 2012

This paper uses the 1998 and 2003 Surveys of Small Business Finance (SSBF) to detail the recent experiences of black female headed small businesses (BFHBs) in the capital markets. It documents, a large disparity in the importance of a college education for black and non-black female headed businesses (NFHBs); that the race of a female headed business is an important factor in determining whether a loan is approved; and that although receiving a college education does not remove the cost BFHBs face due to their owner's race, it is significantly lower than that faced by their peers without a college educated owner. Together, this paper provides striking evidence of taste-based and statistical discrimination, both in violation of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.
Usefulness of ST elevation score by using vector‐projected virtual 187‐channel ECG for risk stratification in patients with Brugada‐type ECG pattern
Authors: Ishikawa Shoko , Niwano Shinichi , Kishihara Jun , Imaki Ryuta , Murakami Masami , Aoyama Yuya , Satoh Akira , Niwano Hiroe , Izumi Tohru
Published: July 2012

Background

Although powerful defibrillation devices are available in clinical practice, risk stratification is important in asymptomatic Brugada syndrome. In this study, vector‐projected 187‐channel electrocardiogram (VP‐ECG) was used to calculate the ST‐elevation score in Brugada‐type ECG and test its usefulness in risk stratification.

Methods and results

VP‐ECG was recorded in 108 patients with Brugada‐type ECG having ventricular fibrillation (VF) episodes (±; n=13/95). The ST morphologies were evaluated in 80/187 precordial leads. The coved‐ and saddleback types (4–6 vs. 1–3 points) of ST‐elevation scores in 332 recordings were 58±57 points, which were calculated using virtual ECG leads. Compared with types 1–3 ECG patterns, the scores were significantly different among the groups (107±65, 62±45, and 14±22, respectively; p<0.01). In patients with VF (−), that is, asymptomatic Brugada syndrome, new VF occurrences, family history, or inducible VF showed a higher score than in those without these occurrences (p<0.01).

Conclusion

The ST elevation score in VP‐ECG objectively documented the degree of ST elevation in surface ECG in Brugada‐type ECG patterns. The ST‐elevation score might be useful for risk stratification in patients with asymptomatic Brugada syndrome.
Brugada syndrome associated with J waves in multiple leads and “pseudo‐epsilon” wiggle waves in lateral leads: Possible conduction delay in J‐wave syndrome
Authors: Ishibashi Kazuya , Takeda Mitsuo , Yamahara Yasuhiro , Shiraishi Hirokazu , Shirayama Takeshi , Matsubara Hiroaki
Published: July 2012

We present a case of Brugada syndrome associated with augmentation of multiple J waves and the presence of “pseudo‐epsilon” wiggle waves in the lateral leads. Just after ventricular fibrillation (VF), J waves were prominent in leads V1 through V4 and in the inferior leads. Moreover, pseudo‐epsilon wiggle waves were recorded at the terminal portion of the QRS‐complexes in leads V5 and V6. Oral administration of quinidine eliminated the epsilon‐like waves and J waves, thus completely suppressing VF. In this case, both the pseudo‐epsilon wiggle waves in the lateral leads and the J waves were thought to be associated with VF. In this case report, we discuss the etiology of J‐wave syndrome from the perspective of the appearance of epsilon‐like delayed waves.
Irregular atrial flutter following pulmonary vein isolation for persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Irie Tadanobu , Kaneko Yoshiaki , Nakajima Tadashi , Ota Masaki , Kato Toshimitsu , Iijima Takafumi , Tamura Mio , Iizuka Takashi , Saito Akihiro , Ito Toshio , Kurabayashi Masahiko
Published: July 2012

A 65‐year‐old man with a history of refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) underwent catheter ablation for persistent AF lasting 2 months. AF was not terminated after complete isolation of the 4 pulmonary veins (PV). Instead, it was transformed to a sustained atrial tachyarrhythmia with beat‐to‐beat variability in the atrial cycle length. A 12‐lead electrocardiogram during tachycardia showed negative flutter‐like waves in the inferior leads. Entrainment pacing along the tricuspid annulus confirmed the diagnosis of irregular cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI)‐dependent typical atrial flutter (AFL). Linear ablation of the CTI terminated AFL and restored sinus rhythm.
Crossing the bends: Support‐catheter based left ventricular lead placement in challenging cardiac resynchronization therapy device implantation
Authors: Kumar Malik Amit , Ching Chi Keong , Tan Boon Yew , Chong Daniel , Teo Wee Siong
Published: July 2012

The combined use of an Amplatz guiding catheter and support catheter creates a progressively supportive rail to implant the left ventricular (LV) lead in difficult cardiac resynchronization therapy device implantation. We describe the case of a 32‐year‐old male with non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy, left bundle‐branch block, and an LV ejection fraction of 30%, who was referred to our centre for a repeat attempt at an LV lead implant. Previously, the implanter had been unable to advance different guide catheters over the wire to the desired tributary of the coronary sinus (CS). At our centre, the CS was cannulated with a 6‐Fr AL2 coronary guiding catheter. A 135‐cm support catheter (Spectranetics Quick‐Cross) was advanced via AL2 guiding over the 0.035 in. guide wire to the distal CS. The proximal luer fitting of the support catheter was cut and an inner sheath (Medtronic ATTAIN SELECT II) advanced over the support catheter into the CS. A 4‐Fr over‐the‐wire LV lead was advanced through the inner sheath over a 0.014 in. percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty wire after removal of the support catheter. The use of a support catheter serves as rail for the placement of the inner sheath deep in the CS and facilitates implantation of the LV pacing lead. This technique is safe and easily applied.
Characterization of atrial fibrillation and the effect of pulmonary vein antrum isolation in endurance athletes
Authors: Yamaguchi Takanori , Tsuchiya Takeshi , Nagamoto Yasutsugu , Miyamoto Koji , Takahashi Naohiko
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Endurance sports have recently been recognized as a risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to characterize AF in endurance athletes and to examine the efficacy of pulmonary vein antrum isolation (PVAI) in an attempt to clarify the mechanism.

Methods and results

Twenty‐two men (46±8 years old) with AF, who had no risk factors other than participation in long‐term endurance sports, were examined; 12 patients had paroxysmal AF, 9 had persistent AF, and 1 had long‐standing AF. Twelve patients (55%) were asymptomatic at rest. Nineteen patients (86%) experienced less exercise tolerance during AF than during sinus rhythm; exercise‐induced paroxysmal AF was noted in 14 of these patients (64%). Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) were used in 18 patients, but were effective in only 3 patients (16%). Eleven patients underwent PVAI; in these patients, AF was eliminated without AADs in 9 patients (82%) and with AADs in 2 patients over an average follow‐up period of 21±9 months.

Conclusion

AF in endurance athletes is frequently asymptomatic at rest, but manifests as reduced exercise tolerance. AF originates from the pulmonary veins; PVAI could be an effective non‐pharmacologic therapy.
Twiddler's syndrome detected by patient's complaint of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator rotation in the subcutaneous pocket
Authors: Konishi Hirokazu , Tokano Takashi , Nakazato Yuji , Komatsu Sayaka , Suwa Satoru , Komatsu Kaoru , Hayashi Hidemori , Sekita Gaku , Sumiyoshi Masataka , Bito Fumiyasu , Kizu Kyoko , Daida Hiroyuki
Published: July 2012

Twiddler's syndrome presents as a rare implantable‐cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) malfunction that is potentially fatal. The following case is that of a 79‐year‐old woman, who was implanted with an ICD and experienced Twiddler's syndrome. Five months after the implantation, the patient complained that the generator sometimes rotated in the subcutaneous pocket. Fluoroscopy showed that the generator had rotated and the leads were twisted, which is compatible with Twiddler's syndrome. Although all the leads were functioning normally, a procedure to repair the twisted leads was performed. Twiddler's syndrome is usually detected due to a serious device malfunction; however, this case study suggests that it can be detected prior to ICD malfunction by the patient's complaint.
Discontinuation of anti‐arrhythmic drugs in patients receiving hybrid therapy consisting of catheter ablation and bepridil for persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Inoue Koichi , Kurotobi Toshiya , Ito Hiroshi , Kimura Ryusuke , Toyoshima Yuko , Itoh Norihisa , Higuchi Yoshiharu , Date Motoo , Koyama Yasushi , Iwakura Katsuomi , Fujii Kenshi
Published: July 2012

Background

Anti‐arrhythmic drugs (AADs) are often administered following catheter ablation (CA) for persistent atrial fibrillation (peAF) to maintain sinus rhythm (SR). It remains unclear whether AADs can be withdrawn in patients showing no recurrence after CA.

Method

We administered hybrid therapy consisting of CA and AAD (bepridil) in 75 patients with peAF. Withdrawal of AADs was attempted in patients who had no recurrence of AF for ≥6 months. We followed them for 22±16 months.

Results

Patients received 1.2±0.4 sessions of CA and a mean bepridil dose of 131±46 mg/day. After a 3‐month “blanking period,” 62 (83%) patients maintained SR without recurrence of tachyarrhythmia for ≥6 months. AADs were discontinued in 41 patients who agreed to medication withdrawal. Ten of these (24%) experienced a relapse of tachycardia, and these patients had a higher incidence of residual inducibility of tachyarrhythmia at the end of the CA procedure (70% vs. 32%; P=0.03) and required a higher dose of bepridil to maintain SR (170±48 mg vs. 106±30 mg; P<0.0001) than those without relapse.

Conclusions

Discontinuation of AADs occasionally results in recurrence, especially in patients with residual inducibility and in those requiring higher doses of AADs.
Increase in Tpeak–Tend interval induced by cardiac resynchronization therapy is a predictor of ventricular tachyarrhythmia
Authors: Miyoshi Fumito , Munetsugu Yumi , Onuma Yoshimasa , Kikuchi Miwa , Ito Hiroyuki , Watanabe Norikazu , Adachi Taro , Kawamura Mitsuharu , Asano Taku , Tanno Kaoru , Kobayashi Youichi
Published: July 2012

Background

The impact of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on dispersion of repolarization is controversial. This study aimed to determine whether CRT alters the QT interval and Tpeak–Tend interval (Tpeak–end) and whether such changes relate to the risk of developing a major arrhythmic event (MAE).

Methods

Data from 67 patients (49 men; age 71±10 years) who underwent CRT device placement were analyzed retrospectively. Patients had NYHA class III or IV heart failure. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 25±9%. The electrocardiogram was recorded at baseline and during follow‐up after implantation (3 days, 7 days, 1 month, and 2 months).

Results

After 29‐months of follow‐up, 11 patients had experienced MAEs. QT interval and Tpeak–end did not change significantly immediately after CRT. However, 3 days after CRT, Tpeak–end in patients with MAE was significantly increased when compared with patients without MAE (p<0.05). We divided patients into 2 groups according to the change in Tpeak–end at 3 days (increased Tpeak–end group, n=27; decreased Tpeak–end group, n=40). The increased Tpeak–end group demonstrated a significant increase in MAEs (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Increased Tpeak–end at 3 days after CRT was associated with a significant increase in MAEs. This could be a useful predictor of ventricular proarrhythmia.
Direct action of angiotensin II on the conduction through papillary muscle preparations of rat heart immediately after reoxygenation
Authors: Wakatsuki Daisuke , Tsutsumi Takeshi , Higashi Yukei , Suzuki Hiroshi , Takeyama Youichi
Published: July 2012

We investigated the direct action of angiotensin II (Ang II) on myocardial conduction and transmembrane action potential immediately after reoxygenation.

Method

After superfusion in a simulated ischemic solution, ventricular papillary muscle preparations of rat heart were washed with oxygenated Tyrode solution containing Ang II, Ang II plus CV‐11974 (an AT1 receptor blocker), or Ang II plus 5‐hydroxydecanoic acid (mito‐KATP blocker), under rapid electrical stimulation (RES) for 60 s.

Results

In the control experiments, the incidence of conduction delay and block was the highest within the first 10 s, and subsequently, 1:1 conduction was established after 40 s. Ang II significantly enhanced the 2:1 conduction block during the later phase of RES (40–60 s after reoxygenation). This effect of Ang II was abolished by either CV‐11974 (P<0.001) or 5‐HD (P<0.001).

Conclusion

RES‐induced conduction delay and block immediately after reoxygenation were accelerated by Ang II, which could be relevant to the maintenance of reperfusion arrhythmias. The mito‐KATP channel may participate in the mechanism underlying this phenomenon.
A case of biventricular pacing with a spike on T‐wave caused by the algorithm maintaining biventricular pacing rate
Authors: Fujimoto Manabu , Ikeda Tatsunori , Tuchida Masayuki , Kontani Kouichirou , Kiyama Masaru , Okeie Yasukazu , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: July 2012

Cardiac‐resynchronization therapy (CRT) improves the cardiac function of patients with left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony. Maintenance of the biventricular pacing rate is very important in managing the hemodynamics in patients implanted with CRT devices. A low biventricular pacing rate, for example, in cases with atrial fibrillation or rapid intrinsic atrioventricular (AV) conduction, decreases the benefits of CRT. The LUMAX HF‐T 540 device series (BIOTRONIK, Berlin, Germany) has a LV‐triggered pace algorithm, which allows biventicular pacing rates to be maintained even during rapid intrinsic rhythms caused by shortened AV conduction and/or premature ventricular contraction (PVC) occurring in the right ventricle. We encountered a case of CRT device implantation with a defibrillator wherein this triggered pace algorithm caused a spike on T‐wave due to T‐wave oversensing. By remote monitoring, we were also able to determine that the T‐wave oversensing was due to a PVC. The LUMAX 540 series allows for changes in the sensing threshold and filter settings of the device, which facilitated the elimination of T‐wave oversensing in this case.
A 6‐year‐old boy with secondary long QT syndrome
Authors: Kojo Kanami , Yoshinaga Masao , Kucho Yu , Hazeki Daisuke , Tanaka Yuji , Mizota Michiyo
Published: July 2012

Secondary long QT syndrome (LQTS) is caused by several drugs, cardiac conditions, and noncardiac conditions. One of the main metabolic causes is hypokalemia. We experienced treating a boy with secondary LQTS due to primary aldosteronism. The boy had been followed annually since he was 6 years old because his resting electrocardiogram (ECG) showed a prolonged QT interval. When he was 9 years old, he developed general fatigue and myalgia. The QT interval in his resting ECG became longer and serum data indicated rhabdomyolysis. The aldosterone level was high and renin activity was low. He was diagnosed with primary aldosteronism. When we, pediatricians, see children with LQTS, we are apt to think that their condition is congenital in nature. However, secondary or acquired LQTS should be always taken into consideration and be excluded not only in adults but also in the pediatric population.
Permanent pacemaker lead placement via the femoral vein in an elderly patient with a large thoracic aortic aneurysm
Authors: Ohguchi Shiou , Morishima Itsuro , Mutou Masahiro , Isobe Tatsuo , Itou Ryuta , Shinji Kazuya , Morofuji Noriaki , Morikawa Shuji
Published: July 2012

An 87‐year‐old woman with complete atrioventricular block was admitted for permanent pacemaker implantation. The patient had a large thoracic aortic aneurysm that had been conservatively treated. Lead placement was not possible via the superior vena cava or the epicardial route because of the aneurysm. Therefore, we implanted a VVI pacemaker via the femoral approach. A unit was placed in a pouch on the right lower abdominal wall, and a lead was introduced into the right ventricle via the right femoral vein. The femoral vein approach is rarely used; however, it should be recognized as an effective alternative when the usual approach is difficult or impossible to be performed.
Unresolved matters related to implantable cardioverter defibrillators: How can we avoid shock therapy?
Authors: Noda Takashi , Shimizu Wataru
Published: July 2012

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have become very useful for patients with a high risk of sudden cardiac death, based on the results of several clinical trials. Although ICDs can improve survival when used in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced left ventricular (LV) function, a recent sub‐analysis of major clinical trials regarding ICDs has revealed that ICD shock is associated with worsening HF or increase in mortality. ICD settings must be programmed appropriately, guided by clear evidence, to avoid unnecessary and inappropriate shocks. We discuss the benefits and pitfalls of ICD programming, such as tachycardia pacing, detection intervals, detection rates, and discriminators, to offer programming tips in this review.
Left ventricular function and myocardial perfusion before and after cardiac resynchronization therapy in chronic right ventricular apical pacing by echocardiogram‐gated myocardial perfusion single photon emission computed tomography
Authors: Honda Yuki , Higashi Yuukei , Ebato Mio , Wakatsuki Daisuke , Shimojima Hisa , Suzuki Hiroshi , Takeyama Youichi
Published: July 2012

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in cardiac performance and myocardial blood perfusion by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in patients upgrading to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) from right ventricular apical pacing (RVAP).

Methods

Eleven patients (age, 70±7.7 years; pacing career, 95±48.8 months) with chronic RVAP were studied. Their baseline characteristics included New York Heart Association (NYHA) class ≥2, with left ventricular end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV) >55 mm or left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50%, as shown by echocardiography. Cardiac function and cardiac blood perfusion of 17 segments were evaluated by SPECT. Cardio‐GRAF (cardio Gated single photon emission computed tomography Regional Assessment for left ventricular Function), a left ventricular (LV) segmental time–volume analyzing program for SPECT, was used to assess dyssynchrony.

Results

Upgrading from RVAP to CRT resulted in an increase in LVEF and a decrease in LVEDV. The standard deviation of the time from the onset of QRS to end‐systole in the 17 LV segments, which indicates LV dyssynchrony, showed the tendency to shorten from 98 to 70 ms. Furthermore, the %uptake of blood perfusion was increased at the inferoseptal lesion.

Conclusion

Upgrading to CRT from RVAP improved cardiac function and increased %uptake of blood perfusion at the inferoseptal lesion, as demonstrated by SPECT.
Novel extrathoracic puncture techniques for pacemaker lead insertion: Pitfalls of the conventional extrathoracic puncture method
Authors: Sawasaki Kohei , Sato Terumori , Takayama Yohei , Yokota Shigeki , Morita Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Masakazu , Saito Makoto , Takanaka Chiei , Muto Masahiro
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Surgical procedures for pacemaker implantation vary among facilities. The extrathoracic venous puncture method has been utilized for lead insertion, although patients' body movements can displace the targeted vein from the area into which a contrast agent has been injected for imaging. Failed punctures cause edema around the puncture site, spasm, or venous collapse due to bleeding, which may render another puncture impractical. To overcome these problems, we report a new technique for the extrathoracic puncture method.

Methods and results

From April 2007 through March 2011, we performed 35 new dual chamber pacemaker implantation procedures. This study compared a conventional puncture group (from April 2007 through March 2009; Group A) with a catheter‐guided puncture group (from April 2009 through March 2011; Group B). We analyzed procedure time and procedure‐related complications in each group. The procedure time was 138.6±41.8 min in the conventional puncture group (Group A) and 109.8±23.2 in the catheter‐guided puncture group (Group B). There was a significant reduction in the procedure time in the catheter‐guided puncture group (Group B) compared with the conventional puncture group (Group A; p=0.016). No patients in either group had pneumothorax, hematoma, or any other complications.

Conclusion

Our puncture method involving catheter insertion appears to be safe and effective.
Actual conditions of implantable defibrillation therapy over 5 years in Japan
Authors: Shimizu Akihiko , Nitta Takashi , Kurita Takashi , Imai Katsuhiko , Kobayashi Yoshinori , Soejima Kyouko , Niwano Shinnichi , Watanabe Shigeyuki , Abe Harushiko , Aizawa Yoshifusa , Okumura Ken
Published: July 2012

Purpose

The aim of this study was to describe the recent conditions associated with implantable defibrillation therapy for individual underlying heart diseases.

Methods

Ten thousand six hundred and five patients with implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (CRT‐Ds) that were implanted from 2006 to 2010 were selected from the Japan Cardiac Device Therapy Registry database. They were divided into 12 disease categories and further divided into either primary or secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death.

Results

The major underlying diseases of the patients in this cohort were ischemic heart disease (IHD, 35%), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM, 25%), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM, 8%), and Brugada syndrome (Brugada, 8%). There were no structural heart diseases in this cohort; the incidence of IHD was relatively lower than that of western countries, while the incidence of cardiomyopathy was higher. The percentage of primary prevention (% primary) among the individual diseases varied. IHD was the most prevalent underlying condition in the patient cohort; however, the % primary was 33%, which was relatively lower than that of the other structural heart diseases. The % primary was relatively higher in patients with DCM (57%) and Brugada (47%). Over 5 years, the % primary gradually increased in patients with DCM, IHD, and HCM, with a particularly dramatic increase in those with DCM. A decrease in the % primary among patients with Brugada began in 2008.

Conclusions

In patients that underwent implantable defibrillation therapy, there was a relatively lower % primary in the IHD group, and a substantial increase in the % primary in patients with DCM.
Prevalence and significance of the early repolarization pattern in inferolateral leads in patients with Brugada syndrome: A single‐center study
Authors: Ohkubo Kimie , Watanabe Ichiro , Okumura Yasuo , Kofune Masayoshi , Nagashima Koichi , Mano Hiroaki , Sonoda Kazumasa , Nakai Toshiko , Kasamaki Yuji , Hirayama Atsushi , Sumitomo Naokata , Nakayama Tomohiro
Published: July 2012

In this study, the prevalence and prognostic significance of the early repolarization (ER) pattern in the inferolateral leads in patients with Brugada syndrome were investigated. Clinical, genetic, and electrophysiological data were collected and analyzed from 69 individuals with either a spontaneous or drug‐induced Brugada type 1 electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern. An ER pattern was defined as J‐point elevation at least 0.1 mV from the baseline in at least 2 inferior or lateral leads. The presence of late potentials and inducibility of ventricular fibrillation (VF) by programmed stimulation were compared between patients with and without a J wave. Follow‐up data, including outcome events, were obtained for all patients. An ER pattern was observed in the inferolateral leads in 6 patients with a spontaneous Brugada type 1 ECG pattern and in 1 patient with a drug‐induced Brugada type 1 ECG pattern. There was no significant intergroup difference in symptoms, family history of sudden cardiac death, prevalence of late potentials, or inducibility of VF. No patient with the ER pattern developed a cardiac event during the mean follow‐up period of 73.6±38.1 months. The ER pattern in the inferolateral leads is not uncommon in Brugada syndrome; however, the presence of a J wave does not appear to be associated with subsequent arrhythmic events in patients with Brugada syndrome.
Epidemiologische Studien auf Basis von Sekundärdaten
Authors: Swart Enno , Ihle Peter
Published: July 2012

Einleitung

Die Nutzung von Routinedaten der gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung und anderer Sozialversicherungsträger (Sekundärdaten) hat in den letzten 20 Jahren innerhalb der Versorgungsforschung und –epidemiologie einen starken Aufschwung erfahren. In Kenntnis der Chancen und Limitationen der Nutzung dieser Daten, sowie der Etablierung spezifischer methodischer Standards, werden diese Sekundärdaten nun auch für epidemiologische Studien durch die Möglichkeiten der Verknüpfung von Primär- und Sekundärdaten interessant.
Fingerprinting of glacial silt in lake sediments yields continuous records of alpine glaciation (35–15 ka), western USA
Authors: Rosenbaum Joseph G. , Reynolds Richard L. , Colman Steven M.
Published: July 2012

Fingerprinting glacial silt in last glacial-age sediments from Upper Klamath Lake (UKL) and Bear Lake (BL) provides continuous radiocarbon-dated records of glaciation for the southeastern Cascade Range and northwestern Uinta Mountains, respectively. Comparing of these records to cosmogenic exposure ages from moraines suggests that variations in glacial flour largely reflect glacial extent. The two areas are at similar latitudes and yield similar records of glacial growth and recession, even though UKL lies less than 200 km from the ocean and BL is in the continental interior. As sea level began to fall prior to the global Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), existing glaciers in the UKL area expanded. Near the beginning of the global LGM (26.5 ka), the BL record indicates onset of glaciation and UKL-area glaciers underwent further expansion. Both records indicate that local glaciers reached their maximum extents near the end of the global LGM, remained near their maxima for ~ 1000 yr, and underwent two stages of retreat separated by a short period of expansion.
A STATISTICAL APPROACH TO EPISTEMIC DEMOCRACY
Authors: Pivato Marcus
Published: July 2012

We briefly review Condorcet's and Young's epistemic interpretations of preference aggregation rules as maximum likelihood estimators. We then develop a general framework for interpreting epistemic social choice rules as maximum likelihood estimators, maximuma posterioriestimators, or expected utility maximizers. We illustrate this framework with several examples. Finally, we critique this program.
LEARNING TO SIGNAL WITH PROBE AND ADJUST
Authors: Skyrms Brian
Published: July 2012

This is an investigation of the emergence of signaling using one kind of trial and error learning: probe and adjust.
Density ratio effects on reacting bluff-body flow field characteristics
Authors: Emerson Benjamin , O’Connor Jacqueline , Juniper Matthew , Lieuwen Tim
Published: July 2012

The wake characteristics of bluff-body-stabilized flames are a strong function of the density ratio across the flame and the relative offset between the flame and shear layer. This paper describes systematic experimental measurements and stability calculations of the dependence of the flow field characteristics and flame sheet dynamics upon flame density ratio,${\rho }_{u} / {\rho }_{b} $, over the Reynolds number range of 1000–3300. We show that two fundamentally different flame/flow behaviours are observed at high and low${\rho }_{u} / {\rho }_{b} $values: a stable, noise-driven fixed point and limit-cycle oscillations, respectively. These results are interpreted as a transition from convective to global instability and are captured well by stability calculations that used the measured velocity and density profiles as inputs. However, in this high-Reynolds-number flow, the measurements show that no abrupt bifurcation in flow/flame behaviour occurs at a given${\rho }_{u} / {\rho }_{b} $value. Rather, the flow field is highly intermittent in a transitional${\rho }_{u} / {\rho }_{b} $range, with the relative fraction of the two different flow/flame behaviours monotonically varying with${\rho }_{u} / {\rho }_{b} $. This intermittent behaviour is a result of parametric excitation of the global mode growth rate in the vicinity of a supercritical Hopf bifurcation. It is shown that this parametric excitation is due to random fluctuations in relative locations of the flame and shear layer.
Origen, Greek Philosophy, and the Birth of the Trinitarian Meaning ofHypostasis
Authors: Ramelli Ilaria L. E.
Published: July 2012

Origen, far from being a precursor of “Arianism,” as he was depicted during the Origenist controversy and is often still misrepresented today, was the main inspirer of the Nicene-Cappadocian line.1The Trinitarian formulation of this line, which was represented above all by Gregory of Nyssa, is that God is one and the same nature or essencein three individual substancesand that the Son isto the Father. Indeed, the three members of the Trinity share in the same2This formulation was followed by Basil in his last phase; Didymus, Gregory of Nazianzus from 362 onwards; Evagrius; and numerous later authors.3Origen himself had already maintained both things: that the Father, the Son, and the Spirit have the samebut are three differentand Gregory of Nyssa closely followed him.4As I set out to argue, Origen’s thought represented a novel and fundamental theorization with respect to the communality ofand the individuality ofconceived as individual substances, in the Trinity. He influenced not only subsequent Trinitarian theology, but perhaps even “pagan” Neoplatonism. (Likewise, on the christological side, Annewies van den Hoek5has insightfully demonstrated the importance of Origen in asking—and endeavoring to answer—the question of the unification of humanity and divinity in Christ, and Origen’s influence on later formulations.)
Meat offerings and their preparation in the state cult of the Assyrian empire
Authors: Gaspa Salvatore
Published: July 2012

This study examines the treatment of meat in Assyrian state cult of the first millenniumbce. To this aim, the administrative and cultic textual evidence about offerings of whole animals, meat cuts, and meat-based culinary preparations are considered here. After an overview of the meat offerings in the ritual action of a series of Assyrian cult ceremonies, the enquiry focuses on the culinary treatment, presentation, and manipulation of the sacrificial meat; the evidence discussed reveals that the culinary treatment of the meat offered differed according to the deity and the cultic occasion.
East of the Cape in 1832: The Old Indies World, Empire Families and “Colonial Women” in Nineteenth-century Java
Authors: Knight G. Roger
Published: July 2012

This paper deals with several themes central to recent debate about Dutch colonial society in Java, the key island of the erstwhile Netherlands Indies. Primarily, these themes relate to the colonial-metropolitan nexus, and my discussion seeks to illuminate these themes with particular reference to the documented experiences of three women who were either on their way to the Indies—or making their way back from there—early in the 1830s. The paper's fundamental argument concerns the importance of the concept of “Empire Families” to an understanding of Dutch colonial communities in the Indies. It is an understanding that serves to correct some misconceptions about the dynamics of those societies in the early to mid-nineteenth-century period. Among other things, building on the work of others and drawing on unpublished documentation, it seeks to locate some aspects of colonial “discourse,” particularly those relating to “colonial women,” in the broader framework of social history.
Gold-Leaf Flattery, Calcuttan Dust, and a Brand New Flagpole: Five Little-Known VOC Collections in Asia on India and Ceylon
Authors: Bes Lennart
Published: July 2012

Beside the records of the Dutch East India Company (or VOC) stored at the Netherlands National Archives in The Hague, there are various VOC collections kept in Asia that pertain to India and Ceylon. Some of these are relatively well-known: the “Dutch Records” in the Tamil Nadu Archives (Chennai); the records of the VOC government of Ceylon in the Sri Lanka National Archives (Colombo); the records of the Dutch Reformed Church of Ceylon at the Wolvendaal Church (Colombo); and the records of the Asian VOC headquarters at Batavia in the National Archives of Indonesia (Jakarta).
Applied linguists without borders
Authors: Tarone Elaine
Published: July 2012

Until 1989, the American Association for Applied Linguistics (AAAL) could have been viewed as an interest group of the Linguistics Society of America (LSA); AAAL met in two designated meeting rooms as a subsection of the LSA conference. In 1991, I was asked to organize the first independent meeting of AAAL in New York City, with the help of Nathalie Bailey as local chair. With the planning committee, we made several important changes that would take effect in the first independent AAAL conference: we would have many more sessions than could be accommodated in two rooms, we would invite colloquia as well as individual papers, and we would go out of our way to recruit international presenters, even though our name was the american Association for Applied Linguistics. I remember that first independent AAAL conference as a resounding success, with 400 enthusiastic participants.
Electron acceleration in vacuum with two overlapping linearly polarized laser pulses
Authors: Wang Xiaoshan , Du Hongchuan , Hu Bitao
Published: July 2012

A novel electron acceleration approach with two overlapping linearly polarized laser pulses in vacuum is proposed. By our simulation, the energy and space spreads can reduce greatly comparing with the acceleration with only one laser pulse having doubled peak laser intensity for realistic laser parameters and the average energy gain from our scheme can be doubled for certain pulse lengths, at the same time. Using numerical simulation, analytical criteria for optimal regimes of our acceleration scheme is found.
Life stress, the dopamine receptor gene, and emerging adult drug use trajectories: A longitudinal, multilevel, mediated moderation analysis
Authors: Brody Gene H. , Chen Yi-Fu , Yu Tianyi , Beach Steven R. H. , Kogan Steven M. , Simons Ronald L. , Windle Michael , Philibert Robert A.
Published: July 2012

This study was designed to examine the prospective relations of life stress and genetic status with increases in drug use. African Americans (N = 399) in rural Georgia (Wave 1 mean age = 17 years) provided three waves of data across 27.5 months and a saliva sample from which the dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) gene was genotyped. Multilevel growth curve modeling analysis indicated that emerging adults manifested the highest escalations in drug use when they reported high life stress and carried an allele of DRD4 with 7 or more repeats (7 + R allele). In addition, emerging adults who reported high life stress and carried the 7 + R allele evinced the largest increases in two proximal risk factors for drug use: affiliations with drug-using companions and drug use vulnerability cognitions. Furthermore, when the Gene × Environment interaction effects on the increases in affiliations with drug-using companions and vulnerability cognitions were entered into the model forecasting drug use, the Life Stress × DRD4 Status interaction on drug use became nonsignificant in the presence of the risk mechanisms. This finding provides an example of “second generation” Gene × Environment interaction research in which the interaction's effects on proximal risk mechanisms account for its effects on outcomes.
Instantiating the multiple levels of analysis perspective in a program of study on externalizing behavior
Authors: Beauchaine Theodore P. , Gatzke-Kopp Lisa M.
Published: July 2012

During the last quarter century, developmental psychopathology has become increasingly inclusive and now spans disciplines ranging from psychiatric genetics to primary prevention. As a result, developmental psychopathologists have extended traditional diathesis–stress and transactional models to include causal processes at and across all relevant levels of analysis. Such research is embodied in what is known as the multiple levels of analysis perspective. We describe how multiple levels of analysis research has informed our current thinking about antisocial and borderline personality development among trait impulsive and therefore vulnerable individuals. Our approach extends the multiple levels of analysis perspective beyond simple Biology × Environment interactions by evaluating impulsivity across physiological systems (genetic, autonomic, hormonal, neural), psychological constructs (social, affective, motivational), developmental epochs (preschool, middle childhood, adolescence, adulthood), sexes (male, female), and methods of inquiry (self-report, informant report, treatment outcome, cardiovascular, electrophysiological, neuroimaging). By conducting our research using any and all available methods across these levels of analysis, we have arrived at a developmental model of trait impulsivity that we believe confers a greater understanding of this highly heritable trait and captures at least some heterogeneity in key behavioral outcomes, including delinquency and suicide.
Arrested development: The effects of incarceration on the development of psychosocial maturity
Authors: Dmitrieva Julia , Monahan Kathryn C. , Cauffman Elizabeth , Steinberg Laurence
Published: July 2012

Improvements in temperance, perspective, and responsibility are a part of typical development of psychosocial maturity during adolescence. The existing literature suggests that the developmental course of psychosocial maturity is influenced by normative variations in social context, but little is known about how atypical contexts, such as incarceration, influence its development. The study investigates how the development of psychosocial maturity is affected by incarceration, using data from a 7-year longitudinal study of 1,171 adolescent males. We compared the effects of confinement in juvenile facilities with varying degrees of focus on incarceration versus rehabilitation (i.e., secure vs. residential treatment facilities) and tested whether facility quality and age at incarceration moderate the effect of incarceration on psychosocial maturity. The results indicate that incarceration in a secure setting, but not a residential treatment facility, is associated with a short-term decline in temperance and responsibility. The total amount of time incarcerated in a residential treatment facility, but not a secure setting, had a negative effect on the developmental trajectory of psychosocial maturity. Age at incarceration, but not the facility quality, moderated the effect of recent incarceration: older youths were more susceptible to short-term negative effects of recent incarceration in a secure setting, but they also benefited more than younger participants from short-term positive effects of incarceration in a residential treatment setting. Furthermore, youths who perceived their incarceration setting as unsafe evinced a decline in temperance. Future research and policy implications are discussed.
Planning from the future: an emerging agenda
Authors: Kent Randolph C.
Published: July 2012

In the foreseeable future, it is more than likely that the types, dimensions, and dynamics of crisis drivers will increase dramatically, in some instances exponentially. While a growing number of organizations with humanitarian roles and responsibilities sense that such changes are afoot, few have looked at how these might fundamentally affect not only what they do but also how they do it. This article suggests that it is time for humanitarian organizations to look far more systematically at the transformational factors that will increase disaster vulnerabilities around the world and also the opportunities that exist to mitigate them. The article notes that some of the most transformative factors affecting humanitarian action will be the result of new political structures in the post-Western hegemonic world and the growing political centrality of humanitarian crises. The consequences of these and other transformative factors mean that those with humanitarian roles and responsibilities will have to be far more anticipatory and adaptive than is the case today. They will have to pay far greater attention to innovation and innovative practices and significantly expand the ways in which and with whom they collaborate.
Delayed Administration of Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Reduces Ischemic Brain Damage and Inflammation in Comorbid Rats
Authors: Pradillo Jesus M , Denes Adam , Greenhalgh Andrew D , Boutin Herve , Drake Caroline , McColl Barry W , Barton Eleanor , Proctor Spencer D , Russell James C , Rothwell Nancy J , Allan Stuart M
Published: July 2012

Many neuroprotective agents have been effective in experimental stroke, yet few have translated into clinical application. One reason for this may be failure to consider clinical comorbidities/risk factors in experimental models. We have shown that a naturally occurring interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) is protective against ischemic brain damage in healthy animals. However, protective effects of IL-1Ra have not been determined in comorbid animals. Thus, we tested whether IL-1Ra protects against brain injury induced by experimental ischemia in aged JCR-LA (corpulent) rats, which have clinically relevant risk factors. Male, aged, lean, and corpulent rats exposed to transient (90 minutes) occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (tMCAO) were administered two doses of IL-1Ra (25 mg/kg, subcutaneously) during reperfusion. Brain injury and neuroinflammatory changes were assessed 24 hours after tMCAO. Our results show that IL-1Ra administered at reperfusion significantly reduced infarct volume measured by magnetic resonance imaging (50%, primary outcome) and blood–brain barrier disruption in these comorbid animals. Interleukin-1Ra also reduced microglial activation, neutrophil infiltration, and cytokines levels in the brain. These data are the first to indicate that IL-1Ra protects against ischemic brain injury when administered via a clinically relevant route and time window in animals with multiple risk factors for stroke.
Biology of Intracranial Aneurysms: Role of Inflammation
Authors: Chalouhi Nohra , Ali Muhammad S , Jabbour Pascal M , Tjoumakaris Stavropoula I , Gonzalez L Fernando , Rosenwasser Robert H , Koch Walter J , Dumont Aaron S
Published: July 2012

Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) linger as a potentially devastating clinical problem. Despite intense investigation, our understanding of the mechanisms leading to aneurysm development, progression and rupture remain incompletely defined. An accumulating body of evidence implicates inflammation as a critical contributor to aneurysm pathogenesis. Intracranial aneurysm formation and progression appear to result from endothelial dysfunction, a mounting inflammatory response, and vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic modulation producing a pro-inflammatory phenotype. A later final common pathway appears to involve apoptosis of cellular constituents of the vessel wall. These changes result in degradation of the integrity of the vascular wall leading to aneurysmal dilation, progression and eventual rupture in certain aneurysms. Various aspects of the inflammatory response have been investigated as contributors to IA pathogenesis including leukocytes, complement, immunoglobulins, cytokines, and other humoral mediators. Furthermore, gene expression profiling of IA compared with control arteries has prominently featured differential expression of genes involved with immune response/inflammation. Preliminary data suggest that therapies targeting the inflammatory response may have efficacy in the future treatment of IA. Further investigation, however, is necessary to elucidate the precise role of inflammation in IA pathogenesis, which can be exploited to improve the prognosis of patients harboring IA.