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|Número de publicación
|Tipo de publicación
|Número de solicitud
|Fecha de publicación
|12 Oct 1999
|Fecha de presentación
|30 Sep 1997
|Fecha de prioridad
|30 Sep 1997
|También publicado como
|Número de publicación
|Josef Flomenblit, Nathaly Budigina, Jacob Richter
|Cesionario original
|Litana Ltd.
|Exportar cita
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Citas de patentes (5), Citada por (119), Clasificaciones (28), Eventos legales (5)
|Enlaces externos: USPTO, Cesión de USPTO, Espacenet
The invention relates to implantable medical devices, and more particularly, to implantable medical devices made of or have at least a portion made of a shape memory alloy (SMA), which are positioned in the body while being in an initial configuration, another deformed to a second, operational configuration (the configuration assumed by the device once deployed in the body).
Implantable medical devices, such as stents, heart valves, bone plates, staples, intrauterine contraceptive devices and the like must meet many requirements to be useful and safe for their intended purpose. For example, they must be chemically and biologically inert to living tissue and to be able to stay in position over extended periods of time. Furthermore, devices of the kind mentioned above must have the ability to expand from a contracted state, which facilitates insertion into body conduits or cavity, to a useful expanded diameter. This expansion is either accomplished by a forced expansion, such as in the case of certain kinds of stent by the action of a balloon-ended catheter, or by self-expansion such as by shape-memory effects.
There are many alloys which display a shape memory effect (SME), known generically as shape memory alloys (SMAs). A widely used metal alloy, particularly for metal applications, is the nickel-titanium alloy, known as "nitinol". Under certain conditions, SMAs can be highly elastic such that they are able to undergo extensive deformation and yet return to their original shape. Furthermore, SMAs possess shape memory properties such that they can "remember" a specific shape imposed during a particular heat treatment and can return to that imposed shape under certain conditions.
The shape memory effect of SMAs results from metallurgical phase transformations. Certain SMAs are characterized by a transition temperature or transition temperature range, above which the predominant metallurgical phase is termed "austenite" and below which the predominant metallurgical phase is termed "martensite". The transformation from austenite (or austenitic state) to martensite (or martensitic state) is termed "martensitic transformation"; the reverse transformation from martensite to austenite is termed as "austenitic transformation". The transformations in fact occur over a range of temperatures and are commonly discussed with reference to Ms and Mf, the start and finish temperatures of the martensitic transformation, respectively, and As and Af, the start and finish temperatures of the austenitic transformation, respectively. Transformation between these two phases is reversible such that the alloys may be treated to assume different shapes or configurations in the two phases and can reversibly switch between one shape to another when transformed from one phase to the other. Occasionally, SMAs display an intermediate phase, between the austenitic and martensitic states, known as the "R phase". Transformation from austenite to the R phase can also be temperature induced, occur at a temperature referred to as "TR ". The R phase alone does not impart a significant SME (its recoverable strain does not exceed 1%), in contrast to the austenite and martensite states, but rather is a phase strongly affecting the mechanical properties of the alloy and the SME.
Implantable medical devices made of SMA have been known in the art. Sec for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,786,806, 4,485,816 and 5,037,427. U.S. Pat. No. 5,242,451 discloses a stent employing a unidirectional SME to conform into an operational shape, from an original basic shape of a smaller diameter. In U.S. Pat. No. 5,562,641, a two-way SME is employed such that the austenitic transformation temperature is above body temperature and the martensitic transformation temperature is below body temperature, whereby the device retains its last conditioned state (e.g. austenite or martensite) at body temperature. U.S. Pat. No. 5,545,210 discloses a stent which is mechanically deformable while in a martensitic state into an operational configuration assumed by it when it is deployed in a tubular organ. The stent of U.S. Pat. No. 5,545,210 exhibits, in its operational configuration, a strain which is on the horizontal plateau of the stress-strain curve of the SMA. U.S. Pat. No. 5,624,508 disclosed a method for the manufacture of shape memory alloy (SMA) device with defined transformation temperature.
The use of stress-induced martensite principle, rather than temperature-induced martensite, has likewise been employed in SMA-based medical devices, e.g. in U.S. Pat. No. 4,665,906. In such devices, austenitic nitinol is deformed to form stress-induced martensite and held in its deformed configuration and martensitic state by a restraining member. The device is introduced into the body in the deformed configuration, where it is released from the restraining member to return to its austenitic state and configuration without any temperature change.
The present invention relates to implantable medical devices such as stents, heart valves, bone plates, surgical clips or staples, tooth implants, bone fracture healing device, catheters, interuterine contraceptive devices, and the like.
In the following, the term "shape memory device" will be used to denote a device which is made entirely or having at least a functional portion made of a shape memory alloy (SMA). The term "functional portion" means to denote a portion of the medical device which can change its configuration to perform a certain function within the body (e.g. anchoring, applying force on surrounding tissue, etc.). The shape memory device of the invention utilizes some of the shape memory properties of the SMA for its function. The term "configuration" should be understood as meaning either one or more of the shape, diameter, elasticity, mechanical properties, or any other mechanical and geometrical property of the SMA. The configuration is in fact a combination of all such properties.
The medical device of the invention has at least a functional portion comprising an SMA of the two-way shape memory type; namely, an SMA having two different "memorized" configurations, including one assumed by it in its austenitic state (to be referred to herein at times as the "austenitic configuration ") and the other assumed by it in its martensitic state (to be referred to herein at times as the "martensitic configuration"). Each of these different configurations is also typically characterized by a different geometrical shape, which will be referred to herein at times respectively as the "austenitic shape" and the "martensitic shape".
The invention, by some of its embodiments, employs a mechanical deformation in martensite, having some properties resembling those of a plastic deformation, for deployment of the device within the body and to assume an operational shape, with a deformation strain which is less than the maximal recoverable strain (the term "recoverable strain" is to denote that by an increase of temperature above the austenitic temperature, the strain is released and the SMA conforms to its austenitic configuration). By some embodiments, the maximal recoverable strain can be improved and the fatigue resistance can be increased by having an intermediate R phase.
The device of the invention in accordance with some embodiments has an austenitic configuration such that the process of deformation from the martensitic state to the austenitic state is in a direction opposite to that of the process of mechanical deformation from the initial configuration to the operational configuration of the SMA. In other embodiments, the deformation of the austenitic transformation is in the same direction of the mechanical deformation.
By another embodiment of the invention use is made of the SMAs ability to undergo a strain-induced or a stress-induced mechanical transformation ("mechanically-induced martensitic transformation--"MIMT") to yield a mechanically-inducedmartensitic state ("MIMS"). Specifically, this property, combined with the general mechanical properties of the SMA, further combined with the mechanical properties of a plastic element associated with the SMA, is used to advantage of preparing a composite clement, having on the one hand, "simulated" plastic deformation properties (the are "simulated" because there results from the combined properties of two different materials which together in a certain range of their properties, and which plays a role in the mechanical deformation display together with plastic deformation properties) with however very strong mechanical strength in an operational state, without practically any recoil.
The present invention provides, a medical device for deployment in a body of an individual, comprising a shape memory alloy (SMA) portion having an austenitic and a martensitic state, with different memorized configurations in each of these states, and being transformable between the martensitic state to the austenitic state by an austenitic transformation occurring at an austenitic transformation temperature, and from the austenitic state to the martensitic state by a martensitic transformation occurring at a martensitic transformation temperature, the SMA having an initial configuration which is either a memorized austenitic configuration of the SMA or a martensitic configuration assumed by the SMA portion by a mechanical deformation; the SMA portion being mechanically deformable from the initial configuration into an operational configuration to be assumed by it when deployed within the body; the SMA portion in the operational configuration is either in a martensitic state and having a memorized austenitic configuration to which it transforms when heated to a temperature, equal or above the austenitic transformation temperature, which is above body temperature, or is in an austenitic state, to which it transformed during the mechanical deformation.
The medical device is positioned into its intended place within the body when in its initial configuration and this converted to the operational configuration in which it remains deployed within the body.
The Af temperature (as well As, Ms and Mf) can change as a result of a mechanical deformation. Af which has changed as a result of a mechanical deformation will be identified by a "'" indication, i.e. "Af ".
By one embodiment of the invention, the SMA portion has in its operational configuration, an Af which is higher than physiological body temperature, TB, and an Ms which is lower than TB ; the SMA portion being deformable, while retaining its martensitic state into said operational configuration; upon heating of the SMA portion to a temperature above Af ', it undergoes an austenitic transformation into the austenitic configuration, which is a different configuration than said operational configuration, with the SMA remaining in the austenitic configuration after the SMA's temperature returns back to TB. The austenitic configuration may be such so that the transformation from the operational configuration to the austenitic configuration, when the device is heated to a temperature above Af, goes in a direction opposite to the forced deformation from the initial to the deployment configuration. In accordance with another embodiment, the transformation from the operational configuration to the austenitic configuration is in the same direction to that of said forced configuration.
In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the SMA has an undeformed martensitic configuration, namely a configuration assumed by it after undergoing a heat-induced martensitic transformation, which is about the same as the operational configuration. In such an SMA, internal stress sources will function to stabilize the SMA portion in the operational configuration.
According to another embodiment, the device has an intermediate state R, between the martensitic and the austenitic states, and having a transformation temperature from the austenitic state to the R state TR, which is higher than Ms and being close to TB, such that at body temperature, the SMA portion is entirely or partially in the R state. For example, TR, may be about 35° C. and MS about 32° C.
In accordance with an embodiment of the invention the deformation of the SMA from the initial shape to the deployment shape is with a strain within a range of ε1 -ε2, with ε1 being a strain level at an end of a horizontal plateau of a stress-strain curve of the SMA, and ε2 is an upper limit of deformation where recoverable by a shape memory effect (namely the upper limit of the deformation in which the device can still undergo an austenitic transformation into the austenitic configuration). Typically, the SMA portion is made to assume its initial shape by an elastic deformation while in the martensitic state.
In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, the forced deformation of the SMA portion causes an increase in the austenitic transformation temperature from initial start and finish transformation temperatures of the austenitic transformations, As and Af, respectively, which are below TB, to austenitic start and finish transformations in the operational configuration, As ' and Af ', respectively, higher than TB.
The SMA portion in a device according to the latter embodiment, may be made to have an R phase with a TR close to TB, and may then be mechanically deformed such that at least one segment of the SMA portion remains in the R phase and at least one other segment is deformed with a strain at the range of ε1 -ε2. Thus, in its operational configuration, the SMA portion will have at least one segment (that which is in the R phase) which is relatively soft and flexible, and at least one segment (that deformed with a strain within the range of ε1 -ε2) which has a high mechanical strength.
According to another embodiment of the invention there is provided a medical device for deployment in a body of an individual, comprising:
a first component and a second component associated with one another, such that a deforming mechanical force cause both to deform together; the first component comprising an SMA having an initial configuration in which the SMA is in a mechanically induced martensitic state (MIMS) resulting from a strain-induced or stress-induced martensitic transformation; the second component having mechanical properties such that it resists deformation at a stress, σ2, which is larger than stress generated by the SMA when released from said MIMS to the austenitic stress, σ1, thereby restraining said SMA in said initial state; the SMA together with the second component are mechanically deformable from said initial configuration to an operational configuration, this deformation causing the SMA to transform from said MIMS to the austenitic state; the plastic element yielding a reactive stress, σ2, which is less than the resistive stress, σ3 of the deformation of the SMA from the operational configuration to said initial configuration, whereby the device is retained in said operational configuration.
The second component in a device in accordance with the above embodiment, may have plastic mechanical properties, i.e. a low recoil. The SMA portion in such device provides resistance against the surrounding tissue, where the device has been deployed, which may be adjusted between 0 up to a level depending on the difference between σ4 (the stress during relaxation of the second component) and σ3. The second component may also be elastic, i.e. have a high recoil, up to about 100%, with the SMA portion having an R phase with a TR transformation temperature below TB, whereby cooling of the SMA to TR or below causing a very sharp drop of the SMA's elastic modulus giving rise to a decrease in the stiffness of the SMA portion, and the second component can then deform the SMA portion up to at least said initial configuration and maintain in this configuration, such that it can be removed or repositioned.
The second component may be made of a variety of materials including, for example, rubber, silicone, metal with different mechanical properties to the SMA, SMAs with different properties, polymeric plastic material, etc.
A device in accordance with the above embodiment, combines the properties of the SMA and those of the second component so as to yield properties which (luring the mechanical deformation, simulate an essentially perfect plastic deformation; but if the SMA portion has an R phase and the SMA portion is transformed to said R phase by cooling temperature to TR, the device displays elastic properties. (Such combined properties, will be referred to herein as "simulated plastic deformation" or "simulated elastic deformation" properties, respectively).
The invention will now be further illustrated in the following non-limiting specific embodiment with occasional reference to the annexed drawings:
FIG. 1 shows a stress-strain curve for three different shape memory alloys: a standard alloy displaying an austenitic to martensitic transformation (curve 1); an alloy displaying an austenitic to a martensitic transformation, with an intermediate R state, with MS being very much lower than TR (curve 2); and an alloy with an intermediate R state, but with Ms smaller than but very close to TR.
FIG. 2 shows the shift modulus as a function of the temperature, of an alloy of the kind of curve 3 in FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows a stress-strain curve for an SMA super-elastic (SE) component, and for a second component with different mechanical properties, which are combined together to yield a device displaying simulated plastic deformation properties.
FIG.4 illustrates an embodiment of a stent of the invention and its deployment in a tubular organ. In this embodiment, the stent has an austenitic configuration, such that the deformation from the martensitic to the austenitic state goes in a direction opposite to the mechanical deformation during deployment.
FIG. 5 shows a stent in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, and its deployment in a tubular organ. In this case, the stent can undergo an austenitic transformation, which results in a configuration change which is in the same direction to that of the mechanical deformation during deployment.
FIG. 6 shows a stent in accordance with another embodiment, which is a composite element made of an SMA component, and another component having plastic or elastic deformation properties.
FIG. 7 shows a removable surgical staple, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, where the austenitic transformation yields a deformation which is in a direction opposite to that of the mechanical deformation during deployment.
FIG. 8 shows a surgical staple in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, where the austenitic transformation yields a deformation which goes in the same direction as the mechanical deformation during deployment.
FIG. 9 shows a bone fracture healing device, in accordance with the invention and its deployment to fix a bone fracture.
FIG. 10 shows a bone anchor device, where the SMA portion can undergo an austenitic transformation to increase the anchoring force.
FIG. 11 shows a bone anchoring device, comprising a second component.
The invention relates to a medical device having an SMA portion which is mechanically deformed from an initial configuration in which it is inserted into the body, to an operational configuration, which it assumes when deployed in the body. The deformation is not elastic, since after the external deforming force is unloaded, the SMA portion remains in the deformed state. However, the deformation is also not plastic, since, depending on the type of embodiment, the device can recover its austenitic configuration by austenitic transformation when heated to a temperature above Af, or alternatively, the SMA portion after the forced deformation is in the austenitic state (in the last embodiment described above).
The medical device of the invention may be any one of those mentioned above. A medical device of the invention being a stent is a preferred embodiment of the invention, although the invention should definitely not be considered as being limited to this embodiment only. Occasionally, in the following text, reference will be made specifically to a medical device being a stent, this being meant for illustration purposes only.
The SMA used in accordance with the invention may be any of a variety of such alloys known in the art, nitinol being preferred. Nitinol, which is an alloy comprising primarily nickel and titanium, may also, at times, comprise other metals, typically in trace amounts, including copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), vanadium (V). The alloy comprises about 50 atomic % of both nickel (Ni) and titanium (Ti) with occasionally some of the nickel or the titanium being replaced by one of the abovementioned other metals, e.g. in a concentration range of 0.3-2 atomic %.
The medical device is inserted into the body in an initial configuration, adapted for such insertion, and then is deformed by a mechanical deformation into the operational configuration, in which it remains deployed within the body. For example, in the case of a stent, the initial configuration may be a configuration wherein the stent is coiled around the end of a balloon catheter; the balloon catheter is then used to mechanically deform and expand the stent into its operational configuration, where it has a wider diameter supporting the wall of a tubular organ. The device of the invention may be made entirely of SMA, in which case said SMA portion will in fact constitute the entire device. Alternatively, in some cases the medical device of the invention may have only a portion, a large or a small portion, which is made of an SMA possessing the two-way SME properties.
A medical device which is mechanically deformable from an initial state into an operational state, should ideally possess the following characteristics:
(a) after the forced mechanical deformation, it should have the mechanical strength so as to resist any reactive forces from the surrounding tissue, so that it will not collapse;
(b) The device should be resistant to fatigue, particularly in the case of a varying reactive force, e.g. those applied on a stent by the walls of an artery. Fatigue resistance means in essence resistance against breaks;
(c) It should have a maximal recoverable strain to provide a wide spectrum of design of the SMA portion. This means in essence, that the SMA portion can undergo deformation with a considerable strain, e.g. about 10%, with strain recovery after heating (SME realization).
(d) The device should have a minimal spring back (recoil). The recoil is in fact an instantaneous, elastic deformation in a direction opposite to the forced deformation, which occurs immediately after force unloading (i.e. after stopping the application of force). Such recoil may cause disengagement between the SMA portion and the surrounding tissue, e.g. between a stent and the surrounding walls of an artery, and or as a result impairment in function and unwanted dislocation.
The present invention achieves the above objectives by employing an SMA of the two-way shape memory type, and particularly by making a novel use of the SMA's, state-dependent mechanical properties.
In the following, the letters A, M and R will be used to denote the austenitic state, the martensitic state and the R phase, respectively. The conversion from one state to another will be used by indicating the letter of the starting phase or state connected by a hyphen to the letter pertaining to the resulting state or phase (for example, A-M denotes transformation from austenite to martensite).
Reference is made first to FIG. 1 showing the strain-stress relationships of three different SMA alloys, represented by curves 1, 2 and 3. It should be noted that the point of intercept of each of these curves with the horizontal axis is arbitrary and the different curves are shifted along this axis for the sake of clear presentation. Curve 1 shows the stress-strain relationships of an SMA which undergoes a deformation-induced A-M transformation. In the first vertical part of the curve 20 the SMA is A until the bend 22 when the SMA enters into the horizontal plateau of strain-stress curve in which it converts from A to M. In the horizontal plateau 24 the SMA is relatively soft, and thus a small stress yields a relatively large deformation. In U.S. Pat. No. 5,545,210 (Hess et al.) it is proposed to use a stent which when permanently positioned in a tubular organ, exhibits a strain which is on the horizontal plateau 24, i.e. a strain below ε1. It may be appreciated that such a stent will exhibit a relatively small mechanical strength. The present invention is based on the realization that the transformation should preferably be to a strain within region 26 of the curve, mainly between ε1 and ε2. ε2 is the maximal recoverable strain, namely where the SMA still retains its memory properties. At a strain above ε2 the SMA loses its shape memory properties and cannot recover all strain during M-A transformation. (In fact, it should be noted that the austenitic transformation temperature is also dependent on the degree of deformation, i.e. increases with increase in deformation).
It should be noted, that the SMA, as any alloy, has a maximal deformation which causes it to break, εB. The extent of strain difference between a certain deformed configuration and the maximal strain εB, is a measure of the fatigue resistance of the SMA: a large difference meaning a large fatigue resistance, and vice versa.
Segment 26 of the curve has in fact two portions, a lower portion 28, where the SMA has some elasticity, and an upper portion where the SMA is "plastic" (the SMA in this portion is not actually plastic and the deformation, even of this portion is not a real plastic deformation, since the martensite has a "memorized" austenitic configuration which is recoverable by a heat-induced transformation). It is preferred in accordance with the invention that the deformation will he to a strain where the SMA displays plastic-like properties (segment 30) on the one hand and large mechanical strength on the other hand.
ε2 in an SMA portion in a device of the invention is typically 8-12% (measured from the point of intersection of the curve with the horizontal axis).
The deformation of the medical device to a strain within the range of ε1 -ε2 where it displays much higher mechanical strength than conventional mechanically deformed medical devices, particularly stents. (Hitherto, mechanically deformable medical devices were deployed by deformation to a strain in the range of the horizontal plateau, as noted above). This increase strength allows the medical device of the invention to better resist reaction forces exerted on the device by surrounding tissues or organs. While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that strengthening of the device by deforming it into the region ε1 -ε2 occurs by the interaction between dislocations and martensite plates of different variants.
Curve 2 in FIG. 1, relates to an SMA having an intermediate R phase between A and M and thus undergoes a mechanically induced transformation first from A to R (A-R) and then from R to M (R-M). The A-R transformation can also be temperature induced, at a transformation temperature TR. TR, is made to be larger than Ms and in the specific case of the SMA of curve 2, is considerably larger. Against this, in curve 3 which relates to an alloy which also undergoes an A-R-M deformation induced transformation, the Ms is only slightly below, e.g. 1° C.-10° C. below, TR. One of the characteristics of the R phase is a low shift module at a temperature TR, as represented in FIG. 2. In the case of the present invention TR is made to be about the same as the body temperature, i.e. about 37° C., which is the temperature in which the mechanical deformation is being carried out. TR of the alloy, is larger than Ms, as aforesaid, but should be smaller than As, which is above body temperature. This means that under mechanical deformation stresses, the SMA portion of the device transforms from A to R and then from R to martensite. This A-R-M transformation has more stages than the previous case of the A-M transformation, including a first stage 40, where the SMA is A, a horizontal stage 42 where the A-R transformation occurs, a stage 44 where the SMA portion is the R, a horizontal stage 46 where the R-M transformation occurs and then the stage of reversible martensitic transformation (interaction of different martensitic variants) 48 which extends between strain rates ε1 and ε2 (ε1 and ε2 in curve 2 may have different values than ε1 and ε2 in curve 1). The same applies for the values ε1 and ε2 of curve 3). This multi-phase deformation curve allows an increase in total recoverable strain as compared to a one phase transformation.
Small differences between TR and Ms gives rise to an R-M transformation under favorable conditions of decreased elastic modules (see again FIG. 2). An alloy where Ms and TR are very close to one another, is that which yields curve 3 in FIG. 1. The R and M in fact "blend" with one another to yield a relatively wide range of ε1 -ε2, in which the "plastic" deformation occurs, yielding a strong, deformation resistance configuration in martensite.
In addition to the larger recoverable strain of an SMA with an R state, the decrease in the elastic shift modulus increases the strain where break may occur, ε3, thus yielding an increase in the fatigue resistance of the SMA. This is particularly apparent in the case of curve 3 where Ms is close to TR.
In addition, the existence of an R phase decreases the elastic spring back (recoil) of the SMA. For example, in the case of a wire intended to be used as a force element of a bone fracture healing device, the existence of an R phase provides a recoil of 12% and a recoverable strain of 11%; direct A-M deformation yields recoil of about 25%-28% and about 7.5% recoverable strain.
Another property which is utilized in accordance with the invention is the increase in the austenitic transformation temperatures, which was already pointed out above. The SMA can be designed to have an initial austenitic transformation temperature (As and Af) which is lower than body temperature (TB), with this transformation temperature increasing after the mechanical deformation to a temperature As ' and Af ', which is above TB. The austenitic transformation, namely the temperature induced change in configuration between M to A, can be in the same or in the opposite direction of the mechanical deformation. Where the austenitic transformation occurs in the opposite direction of the mechanical deformation, the device may be inserted into the body in the austenitic state and then mechanically deformed to a strain between ε1 -ε2 to give rise to a martensite with large mechanical strength. The increase in austenitic transformation temperature to above TB ensures no spontaneous temperature-induced configuration recovery. The original configuration may be recovered, e.g. for the purpose of removal or repositioning, by heating the SMA portion, e.g. by means of warm saline, by passing electric current, by a focused ultrasound radiation, and generally by any physiologically compatible heating method. The austenitic transformation may also be in a direction which is the same as that of the mechanical deformation. This feature may be used for reinforcement of the device after the mechanical isothermal deformation, for increasing the device's strength and fatigue resistance and for reducing recoil.
An embodiment of the invention makes use of the combined mechanical properties of an SMA and of another material having plastic or elastic mechanical properties. Their combination, in accordance with the invention, results in an element with simulated plastic deformation properties, when deformed from an initial to an operational configuration; and under certain conditions, this element can deform back towards the initial configuration in a simulated elastic deformation.
The combination of an SMA and a plastic or elastic component to form a composite element having such properties can be in a variety of ways. For example, the SMA may be coated by the plastic or elastic component. Additionally, plastic or elastic restraining members may be fitted to an SMA in a manner that they will undergo joint deformation. A particular example is the case of a stent which is to be deployed by deformation from a contracted, initial state, to an expanded operational state. Such a stent may be made with the SMA coated by a plastic layer or may be made as an SMA spiral combined with one or more restraining members, e.g. several plastic bands fitted over the stent, a plastic sleeve accommodating the stent within it, etc.
The properties of such composite elements can best be understood with reference to FIG. 3. In FIG. 3, a curve 50, showing the stress-strain relationships of an SMA in its deformation from an austenitic state (lower left hand corner) to the martensitic state (upper right hand corner). Curve 50 has a lower segment 51 which shows the strain-stress relationships in a deformation between martensite and austenite (M-A) and the upper segment 52 shows the strain-stress relationships in the deformation between austenite to martensite (A-M).
Also seen in FIG. 3, is curve 60 displaying the mechanical properties of a second component, e.g. made of a plastic. Similarly as curve 50, curve 60 has also two segments, consisting of a lower segment showing the strain-stress relationships during relaxation, and an upper curve 62 showing a strain-stress relationship during extension.
The SMA in the composite element is initially in a strain-or-stress-induced martensitic state with a total deformation up to εx. In this state, the SMA is restrained by the second component since its deformation from martensite to austenite exerts a stress σ1 while the resistance towards extension of the plastic element is σ2. When deformation is forced, e.g. in the case of a stent from a contracted state to an extended state by the use of a balloon catheter, force which has to be applied has to be larger than the difference between σ2 and σ1.
While the deformation from the initial state to the operational state, which is an M-A deformation, precedes along the lower curve 51, the opposite deformation, A-M deformation, precedes along the upper curve 52; thus the SMA portion displays a resistance to deformation in the opposite direction (namely from the operational state to the initial state), at a force σ3. This will the be mechanical resistance force of the SMA against deformation in this opposite direction. The mechanical deformation stress in this opposite direction is a combination of that applied by the second component σ4 and that provided by the surrounding tissue. σ3 is larger than these combined forces and accordingly the SMA portion will resist this opposite deformation.
Given all the above, it is clear that the composite element will display almost ideal plastic properties in its deformation from the initial to the operational configuration, with practically no recoil once reaching the operational configuration. Furthermore, it is clear that this element has a high mechanical strength against reactive forces which may be exerted by the surrounding tissue organ, namely its collapse.
It is possible to construct the SMA portion such that it will also have an R phase, with a TR temperature below body temperature. In accordance with this embodiment, the SMA device may be cooled to TR whereupon it transforms to the R phase. In this phase, it has very low shift modulus and accordingly its resistance to transformation in the opposite direction becomes very low (below σ4), and thus the force which will be applied by the second component will cause its deformation from the operational configuration to the initial configuration.
The second component, whose stress-strain relationship is shown in FIG. 3, has some elasticity and some recoil, seeing that σ4 is different than the zero. It is obviously also possible to have this component entirely plastic (σ4 =0); or alternatively, it is possible that this component be elastic, (σ4 will be about the same as σ2) whereby extension and relaxation will proceed long the same curve. The former component is a plastic component with a very low recoil, and the latter is an elastic component with very high recoil.
In the case of the second component being plastic (σ4 =about 0), the composite element provides a wide spectrum of adjustable pressure on the surrounding tissue. Where the second component is elastic, as pointed out above, cooling the temperature below TR, will cause a mechanical deformation towards the initial configuration.
It is possible also to use a plastic element which changes its mechanical properties after loading:σ2 after one loading will be less than before loading. Such a composite element will have similar properties to those discussed with reference to FIG. 3.
Some examples of medical devices in accordance with the invention will now be described.
Reference is first being made to FIG. 4, showing a stent 20 held on an end of a balloon catheter 22. In the first step (a), stent 20 is brought into the deployment position, within the tubular organ 24, e.g. an artery, while in an initial position with a relatively low diameter, in which it is held on catheter 22. Once in position: (Step (b)) stent 20 is expanded by a balloon 26 of catheter 22, whereby the diameter of stent 20 increases to its deployment configuration. This mechanical deformation is performed in martensite, with a deformation strain not exceeding ε2 while having high mechanical strength and being fatigue resistant. The stent 22 can then be removed (Step (c)), and the stent will thus become deployed supporting the walls of the tubular organ.
The stent of this embodiment is designed so that it can undergo an austenitic transformation with a deformation which is in a direction opposite to that of the mechanical deformation. In this case, the heating of the stent to a temperature above As ' (Step (d)), e.g. by means of a warm saline, will cause the stent to shrink to its austenitic configuration, in which it can be removed or redeployed.
Another embodiment of this stent can be seen in FIG. 5. This embodiment, like elements to those of FIG. 4, has been given the same reference involved with a "'" indication.
Steps (a) and (b) are essentially similar to steps (a) and (b) of FIG. 4. In this case, the stent 20' has been made such that the austenitic transformation causes a change in the configuration which goes in the same direction as the mechanical deformation. Thus, by heating the temperature above As ' (Step (c)), the stent increases in diameter and thereby exerts a stronger force on the surrounding tissue, as a result of the super elastic properties in the austenitic state.
FIG. 6 shows a stent 30, in accordance with another embodiment, which as can be seen in the cross section of the view on the left, is a composite material comprising an SMA 32, coated by another component 34, which may be a substance with plastic (low recoil ) properties, elastic (high recoil) properties, or intermediate properties between the two. By applying a mechanical force, e.g. by a balloon, as in FIGS. 4 or 5, the stent 30 expands from an initial configuration (a) to an operational configuration (b). This mechanical deformation is in fact, a "simulated plastic deformation" as explained above. By cooling to a temperature below TR (c), the component 34 acts to shrink the stent toward its initial state of (c). It should be noted that rather than coating a second component in the manner described above, the association of the second component to the SMA may be by a variety of other means, e.g. containing an SMA stent within a sleeve made of a plastic substance, by adding one or more restraining members, etc.
The substance from which the second component is made, may typically be a plastic polymeric material, e.g. cardiological polyurethane. However it may also be made from other substances, e.g. metal, rubber, etc.
The stent in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4-6, may have, for example, an initial diameter of 1.5-2.5 mm., and then may be expanded mechanically to a diameter of about 3.5-4.5 mm. The deformation between a diameter of 2 mm. to a diameter of 3.5 mm. induces a strain of about 2%. The deformation from 1.5 mm. to 4 mm. induces a strain of about 8%.
FIG. 7 shows a surgical staple 40, which has an initial straight shaped configuration 42(a), and is then deformed mechanically in martensite, into a deployment configuration 44(b). The staple, which is made of an SMA, has an austenitic configuration such that the austenitic transformation yields a deformation which goes in the direction opposite to the mechanical deformation. Thus, by heating, the staple opens to its initial configuration, and can then be removed (c).
In FIG. 8, a similar surgical staple is shown, and accordingly like elements have been given like numbers with a prime indication. In this case, the austentic transformation induces a deformation which goes in the same direction to that of the mechanical deformation, and accordingly, by heating a surgical staple with a higher strain deformation 46, is obtained (c). This serves to further strengthen the tissue binding properties of the staple.
FIG. 9 shows a bone fixation device (50), which comprises two members 52 and 54, which are screw fitted with one another, with member 54 having an external screw thread at its end 56, for a tight screw engagement with the surrounding bone tissue 58. The device further comprises a tensioning cable 60, made of SMA. In order to fix a fracture 62, in the bone, a bore 64, is drilled in the bone, and the device is inserted until the end 56 is tightly screwed into the bone tissue at the end of the bore, and the head 66 of member 52, rests on the bone's exterior surface. During its screw fitting into the bone tissue, members 52 and 54 move slightly apart from one another and consequently, tensioning cable 60 becomes tensioned from its initial loose state (a) to a tensioned state (b). In one embodiment, the austenitic transformation gives rise to a deformation which is in the opposite direction to the mechanical deformation, and consequently, upon heating a temperature above As ' (c), cable 60 transforms to austenite and thus forces the two members 52 and 54 together even further (represented by the relatively large arrow 68) thereby pressing the two fractured bone pieces tightly one towards the other.
FIG. 10 shows a bone anchoring device. The device generally designated 80, has a crown 82, and anchoring legs 84, made of an SMA. The device further has a tensioning arrangement comprising a sphere 86, which is at the end of a rod 88, which is externally screw-threaded at its end 90, and a bolt 92 screw-coupled to end 90. A mechanical tensioning force can be applied by turning bolt 92, pulling sphere 86 from its initial position (a) to a deployed position (b), with this yielding expansion of legs 84. The SMA has an austenitic configuration, such that that the deformation in the austentic transformation is in the same direction to that of the mechanical deformation; accordingly, after heating to a temperature above As (c) legs 84, expand even further and provide, by virtue of their super-elasticity, a constant force on the surrounding bone tissue.
A bone anchoring device according to another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 11. Similar elements to those of FIG. 10 have been given the same reference numeral as in FIG. 10 within the prime indication. In this case, anchoring legs 94 are in an MIMS, and are maintained in that state, by the restraining force of plastic band 96. By the application of mechanical force, legs 94, epand, transforming into austenite against the mechanical force of band 96; the overall effect is that of a simulated plastic deformation ensuring that the mechanical deformation will be a simulated plastic deformation.
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|Clasificación de EE.UU.
|606/78, 604/530, 606/76, 606/108, 606/198, 606/192, 606/200
|Clasificación internacional
|Clasificación cooperativa
|Clasificación europea
|20 Feb 1998
Owner name: LITANA LTD., ISRAEL
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FLOMENBLIT, JOSEF;BUDIGINA, NATHALY;RICHTER, JACOB;REEL/FRAME:009196/0450
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text:
The least disliked episode of VOY - Final Round
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August 24 2013, 01:25 AM
Rear Admiral
Re: The least disliked episode of VOY - Final Round
jimbotron wrote:
Phage - Nah, I never bought the Vidiians as a legit Star Trek species. If what happened to them was real, their society would have collapsed immediately, and extinction would have quickly followed.
I'm not a huge fan of the episode either, but if all societies that would collapse immediately are not legit Star Trek species, we'd have a pretty empty galaxy.
I think in the real world, the Ferengi would be lord and masters of the galaxy.
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text:
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Unreal Tournament
Unreal Tournament footage: 'We have a game now'
Checking in with the latest build
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// Jordan Devore
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Apple announces Metal to bring console-quality graphics to iOS
Dramatically reduced overhead
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Wait, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. has multiplayer?
Jun 02
// Alasdair Duncan
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Unreal Tournament
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The first deathmatch
May 29
// Jordan Devore
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Video: E3 2014 secret leaks revealed!
May 23
// Bill Zoeker
We've left no stone unturned!
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Tappy Chicken
Epic Games makes with the flappy with Tappy Chicken appy
Does that make you happy?
May 22
// Brittany Vincent
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Unreal and Unreal Tournament games half price on Steam
It's not like the new one is going to be playable anytime soon
May 10
// Jordan Devore
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Epic Games is developing a new Unreal Tournament starting today
May 08
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A collaborative effort between Epic, fans, and Unreal Engine 4 devs
Epic Games made its "future of Unreal Tournament" announcement and it's actually promising. There is, in fact, a new game in the works -- starting today with "a small team of UT veterans" -- that'll be developed in open colla...
Epic Games
Epic is doing something with Unreal Tournament next week
VP Mark Rein is 'so excited for the comback'
May 02
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Unreal Engine 4 goes to Xbox One, PS4 in 4.1 update
No additional cost
Apr 25
// Dale North
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Sign up for Epic Games' Fortnite alpha
They're finally ready to talk about the game
Apr 08
// Jordan Devore
Epic has kept mostly quiet about Fortnite for years now and in that time I've gone from being excited to not caring at all to really, really caring. Now that the studio has opened alpha sign-ups and shared a bunch of informat...
Epic: Fortnite has 'evolved,' hopefully we can talk about it soon
Yeah, that'd be nice
Mar 25
// Jordan Devore
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Epic Games' new Unreal Engine 4 subscription plan detailed
Impressions from first demonstration
Mar 19
// Dale North
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Epic Games announces new $19.99/mo Unreal Engine 4 subscription plan
Mar 19
// Dale North
Here's a message to Sweeney himself: [embed]272174:53046:0[/embed] Some notes from a Q&A session after the announcement: Sweeney says that free-to-play games will not have to pay any royalties While support platforms' source for past projects will be provided with the plan, console support and source will not be available. For console access, Epic negotiates on a case-by-case basis "We are not shipping an Unreal Tournament game" alongside this engine announcement
$19.99 a month, 5% of revenue, starts today
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The Unreal Engine 4 now runs in Firefox
Next-gen browser gaming
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Epic: Unreal Engine 4 games aiming for Christmas, Q1 2015
Company will make its own announcements at GDC
Jan 27
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Silicon Knights
Silicon Knights loses appeal against Epic Games
They were previously ordered to pay Epic $9.2 million
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If you haven't been following the Silicon Knights vs. Epic Games Saga, it hasn't been pretty. A North Carolina court ordered Silicon Knights to pay Epic Games millions ($4.5m in damages, and $4.7 in court fees), after a faile...
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Gears of War and Shoot Many Robots on Games with Gold
Free during the month of December for Xbox Live Gold members
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// Darren Nakamura
Microsoft's "Games with Gold" initiative has been picking up steam lately, with two games being offered free of charge to Xbox Live Gold members every month since its inception. I usually don't get to benefit from it due to a...
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People Can Fly is working on Fortnite
Studio renamed Epic Games Poland
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Epic Games' sandbox survival title Fortnite was announced nearly two years ago. I've been anticipating it ever since, though I'd be lying if I said my interest hasn't waned. The company says it doesn't want to rush the game w...
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Microsoft Studios VP comments on future of Gears of War
More games are probably inevitable
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Microsoft Game Studios VP Phil Spencer has once again spoken about his hopes for more Gears of War. Guesting on IGN's Podcast Unlocked, as transcribed by Game Revolution, he commented that after Judgment's sales and review sc...
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VFX in the Infiltrator demo
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// Dale North
It's crazy to see just how much work went into the Unreal Engine 4 Infiltrator demo that we saw at GDC earlier this year. Epic's new series of videos gives us a look under the hood of UE4, with this newest video focusing on ...
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Rod Fergusson heading up new 2K Games studio
Working on an unannounced project
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Former Gears of War producer Rod Fergusson left Irrational Games earlier this year after joining the team during the tail-end of development on BioShock Infinite. The fact that he moved on is no secret, but he has only today ...
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Gears of War on Xbox One? Microsoft hopes so
Oh that Phil Spencer
Sep 18
// Jordan Devore
Asked by Famitsu if the Gears of War franchise would continue on Xbox One, Microsoft Game Studios head Phil Spencer said that "You should ask Epic Games about what they want to do. We haven't announced anything yet about&nbs...
Former Epic Games president joins Remedy's board
Mike Capps joins Alan Wake studio in advisory role
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// Jordan Devore
Earlier this year, former Epic Games president Mike Capps announced that he was no longer going to be affiliated with the company in an advisory role as originally expected. He's since ended up on Alan Wake and Max Payne crea...
Infinity Blade III hits the App Store on September 18
Just in time for the iPhone 5S
Sep 10
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I quite liked Infinity Blade, and that's coming as someone who infrequently plays iOS games. Granted, I completely missed out on the sequel, but the platform-appropriate controls and impressive visuals may pull me back in no...
Falling deeper for Oculus Rift
Eyes on with Oculus Rift HD prototype
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App store promo nets Infinity Blade II 6M new downloads
The power of free
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Infinity Blade Dungeons officially cancelled
More Infinity Blade games coming, but not this one
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Epic confirms unannounced title is a triple-A shooter
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Health, Happiness, & Harmony
Welcome to Health, Happiness & Harmony! My name is Angela, and I am a 28 year old living in northern New Jersey. I am a fifth grade teacher with a passion for living a healthy, active lifestyle. Health, Happiness & Harmony (HHH) is a blog that strives to prove that a healthy... Full Bio


text:
Surinder S. Wadyal, DVM — Chief of Staff
Dr. Surinder Wadyal, our Chief of Staff, is a native of Punjab, India. He is graduate of the Punjab School of Veterinary Medicine and earned his M.S. degree from Punjab Agriculture University School of Post Graduate Studies. Dr. Wadyal immigrated to the United States in 1973 on a Scientific Visa and started his career as a Physiology Instructor at Brooklyn College of Pharmacy. In 1974, he joined Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine as a Research Associate. Dr. Wadyal started practicing veterinary medicine on Long Island in 1975. In 1982, he purchased Oyster Bay Animal Hospital where he continues to practice.
As an active member of the Long Island Veterinary Medical Association (LIVMA), Dr. Wadyal received a LIVMA Regional Service Award in 1999. In 2001, he volunteered his time to work at the World Trade Center site. Dr. Wadyal was elected to serve as president of LIVMA for 2004 and 2005. He is the first Sikh to serve as Regional president in the New York State Veterinary Medical Society (NYSVMS). Through the Pet Safe Coalition, he treated animals that have been relocated to Long Island as a result of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Dr. Wadyal is a member of American Veterinary Medical Association. He is past president of the Nassau Animal Emergency Group. He was recognized several times by Town of Hempstead and Town of Oyster Bay for his services to the community as a veterinarian. He was also awarded by Association of Indian Veterinarians in America for his work as chairman of the board. He was honored with Stanley M. Aldrich Award for outstanding and continuing service in Veterinary Medicine. He is also involved with Last Hope Animal Rescue and many other rescue groups.
As a citizen of his community, he earned Paul Harris Fellow Award from Rotary International; He was recognized by Chamber of Commerce for his 25 year of service as a veterinarian. He is very proud to recieve the New York State Senate Liberty Award, presented to him by Senator Carl Marcellino.
Dr. Wadyal is an active member of his community. He has served as President of the Oyster Bay Rotary Club, is member of the Board of the Boys and Girls Club of America and Oyster Bay Chamber of Commerce. During the winter holidays Dr. Wadyal serves as a Salvation Army Bell ringer. He likes to play tennis, travel and spend time with his grand children. He has been married for 40 years and lives in East Norwich with his wife. They have two adult children.


text:
Recently I had the pleasure and challenge of doing what I would call a "mystery dine" on a concept near the town where I live. This desire to go play Food PD came about because I met the CEO of the concept (not naming names) back in Chicago at the National Restaurant Association's "Big Top" Conference last month and had a hard time being clear about what I liked and what I didn't like about his concept.
After grabbing his card and promising to e-mail what I really thought about his places, I looked to see when and with whom would be the best location for me to visit.
After some speculation I decided on a gluten-free dining friend as a partner in crime for lunch on Day 1 and my husband joined me for dinner on Day 2. To keep the test fair and equal I decided to order the exact same thing, the exact same way, at both meals to see what happened.
Day 1 ~ Location 1 ~ I took along "Gluten-Free Dee," a new friend who is a serious card carrying member of all things GF! When she ordered her gluten-free dish, she was asked by the counter server about her GF choices. The counter person then suggested a new dish for her to try that would also be GF. The suggested item was one that appealed to Dee so she ordered it and the staff member then offered to put an "allergy alert" on Dee's meal. Not sure what an "allergy alert" is officially, but it sounds helpful for those with special dining needs.
On my turn to order and I picked a dish on the menu board above and asked for it without mushrooms (a preference not an allergy). The gal behind the counter said it could come without mushrooms so I was thinking I was good to go. I was not asked if I wanted the "allergy alert" and when I got my meal it showed up with mushrooms.
On Day 2, the meals I ordered were the exact same thing and this time the server asked if I would like to substitute another veggie for the mushrooms. I loved that.added extra tomatoes and this time, at the second location, my meal was perfectly mushroom free.
This started me thinking, what if I was allergic to mushrooms and not just a picky eater? Would that hourly wage employee be responsible for making me sick? Where does my (Jane Q Diner's) personal responsibility start and where is the restaurant staff expected to be accountable? How about a Nutritional Ingredient Guide of some sort? Should the restaurant have a reverse look up for the staff to help get it right?
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text:
The AETAS residence, Bangkok
- Free WiFi and free parking
Main amenities
- 215 apartments
- Restaurant
- Outdoor pool
- Breakfast available
- Free train station pick-up
- Health club
- Business center
- Airport shuttle
- In-room childcare
- 24-hour front desk
- Air conditioning
- Daily housekeeping
What's around
- In Sukhumvit
- Lumpini Park (1.2 mi / 1.9 km)
- Siam Paragon Mall (1.4 mi / 2.3 km)
- Pratunam Market (1.5 mi / 2.4 km)
- Patpong Night Market (1.6 mi / 2.6 km)
- Siam Square (1.7 mi / 2.7 km)
This was our second stay and we'd return again. Great service, always attentive, polite…
Enter dates to check prices
Hotel Info: 1800-687-236 (Australia Toll Free)from A$122
- One Bedroom Suite Single
- Suite, 1 Bedroom
- Studio Suite
- Studio Suite Single
Recommended hotels
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 215 rooms
- This hotel is arranged over 18 floors
- Check-in time starts at 2 PM
- Check-out time is noon
Required at check in
- Credit card or cash deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
Travelling with others
- One child (12 years old and younger) stays free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
- Babysitting/childcare
- Children's club
- No pets or service animals allowed
Extra people
- Rollaway beds available, charges may apply*
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in public areas
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in rooms
- Airport shuttle (available 24 hours) *
- Free train station pickup *
- Free self parking
- Area shuttle within 1 km *
- Shopping center shuttle *
Nearby Four Star Bangkok hotels
In the hotel
- Children's club
- In-room childcare (surcharge)
- Supervised childcare/activities
- Breakfast daily (surcharge)
- Restaurant
- 24-hour room service
- Outdoor pool
- Children's pool
- Health club
- Steam room
- Sauna
- Pool sun loungers
- Pool umbrellas
- Business center
- Conference space size (feet) - 645
- Conference space size (meters) - 60
- One meeting room
- Computer station
- 24-hour front desk
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Limo or Town Car service available
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Laundry facilities
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Luggage storage
- Wedding services
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Year Built 2010
- Elevator/lift
- Designated smoking areas (fines apply)
- Library
In the room
- Air conditioning
- Bathrobes
- Slippers
- Iron/ironing board
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Turndown service
- Premium bedding
- Pillowtop mattress
- Separate dining area
- Balcony
- Private bathroom
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Rainfall showerhead
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- 32-inch LCD TV
- Premium TV channels
- Desk
- Free newspaper
- Free WiFi
- Phone
- Full-sized refrigerator/freezer
- Microwave
- Kitchen
- Stovetop
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Free bottled water
- Daily housekeeping
- In-room safe
Top Bangkok hotels
Recently reviewed hotels in Bangkok
- Centre Point Sukhumvit 10From
"In the heart of everything great for nightlife"Sep 2, 2015
- The Siam Heritage Boutique SuitesFrom
"Old world charm and very spacious"Sep 2, 2015
- Bandara Suites Silom BangkokFrom
"Hotel was more than we expected. Room was large and clean with excellent views but getting a bit dated. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Hotel was a short walk from…"Sep 2, 2015
- Dang Derm HotelFrom
"The hotel is in a great location the room was good and clean was really good for the price"Sep 1, 2015
Nearby hotels
Special features
DiningZee restaurant - This poolside restaurant serves breakfast only.
The AETAS residence, Bangkok's small print
Also known as
- AETAS residence
- AETAS residence Aparthotel
- AETAS residence Aparthotel Bangkok
- AETAS residence Bangkok
- The Aetas Residence Hotel Bangkok
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
Children under 12 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool or fitness facility without adult supervision.
Guests under 13 years old are not allowed in the spa tub.
Parking height restrictions apply.
For transfers, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival at the number on the booking confirmation.
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation.
Optional extras
Rollaway beds are available for THB 1400 per night
Breakfast is offered for an extra charge of THB 470 for adults and THB 235 for children (approximately)
Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of THB 1500 per vehicle (one way)
Dial-up Internet access is available in guestrooms for an extra charge
Area shuttle and shopping center shuttle service is offered for an extra charge
We have included all charges provided to us by this hotel. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the room you book.


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text:
Shop Owner
Have a question?Contact Shop Owner
Shop Info
Opened on Jan 25, 2012
- Policies
- Reviews (1)
- 7 sales
- 60 admirers
Visual Art
BertvanWijk's Shop Policies
...these are my policies...I try to make things as simple and clear as possible, but if you have any questions which remain unanswered here, just send me a message!
I accept PayPal and credit card payments through PayPal. You are not required to have a paypal account to purchase through Etsy. Click the payment button and it will give you the option to pay with credit card without signing up for a Paypal account.
Customers from the European Union can also pay with bank transfers. Just let me know to send you the details.
Payment for all items is expected upon ordering or in the next 24 hours. If you need a few more days, just let me know so I don't cancel the sale and re-list the item.
Cancellation are only within 24h of purchasing! Once payment is recieved allow 3 business days for shipment unless it's custom made item that may take a little bit longer for me to finish. I'll let you know.
Until 14th February 2012 I will be shipping from Florida, USA.
We ship 2-3 business days after we receive your order. I will ship using regular first-class mail with delivery confirmation. Please contact me if you need priority or express shipping.
I ship all my items from Berlin, Germany, via the "normal" Deutsche Post service. Of course - upon your request- I can also ship with tracking number or via express shipment. Just contact me and I will e-mail you the costs.
"Normal" shipment takes around 10 days for US destination, 3-4 days within Europe and around 2 weeks for any other worldwide destination.
International customers are responsible for duties and taxes.
I will ship to you Etsy address, so please make sure it's up to date and correct!
Let me know if you want the item to be sent to another address.
Refunds and Exchanges
If you are at all dissatisfied with your purchase, any item can be exchanged for an item of equal value. Please let me know within 3 days of receiving your purchase and we will find a solution.
Additional Policies and FAQs
I hope vereything is clear if not, please contact me if any questions remain unanswered!
Last Updated January 26, 2012


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The new Yardbarker app is here! Install on your iPhone, iPad or Android device. You can also find us in Google Newsstand.
Diego Maradona climbs onto chair, sings 'No Woman No Cry' (Video)
Diego Maradona, the retired soccer legend from Argentina, recently joined some friends in sing the Bob Marley classic "No Woman No Cry" while enjoying a meal together.Maradona seemed to really enjoy the song, as he climbed onto his chair to sing the chorus.H/T 101gg. This post appeared first on Holdout Sports. Follow us on Twitter and Like us on Facebook.
Via Holdout Sports
July 26, 2015 | Discuss
Fidel Castro Sends Letter To Diego Maradona, Quells Death Rumors (Photo)
Unlike many of the shots Diego Maradona took during his legendary soccer career, those rumors which claim Fidel Castro has died are wide of the mark. Maradona quashed Castro death rumors Monday by showing a signed, four-page letter he recently received from the former President of Cuba to Telesur, according to Reuters. Maradona didn't share the contents...
Video of Diego Maradona hitting ex-girlfriend surfaces
Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona can be seen hitting ex-girlfriend Rocio Oliva in a new video that has emerged. Oliva and Maradona have been in an on-and-off relationship that apparently has soured for good. According to Argentina news company Ciudad, Oliva claimed in June to have video and photo evidence of Maradona beating her. Things...Read More
Via Larry Brown Sports
October 27, 2014 | Discuss
Soccer Legend Diego Maradona Brawls In Streets Of Croatia (Video)
Diego Maradona is up to his old tricks. Maradona, 53, recently was filmed fighting outside of a nightclub in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The Argentinian soccer legend tried to attack local fans, who wanted to take a picture with him, according to Metro. While Maradona's friends kept the incident from escalating into a full-fledged fracas, the video still has been doing the rounds...
WATCH: Soccer legend Diego Maradona slaps a reporter
Diego Maradona is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time. The former Argentine star and manager constantly draws attention from reporters and paparazzi, and he is not afraid to speak his mind. On Saturday, he did a lot more than just sharing his thoughts. As Metro pointed out, Maradona slapped […]
Via Larry Brown Sports
August 11, 2014 | Discuss
Watch: Diego Maradona Slaps an Argentine Journalist
Diego Maradona is arguably one of the greatest soccer players to ever wear a pair of cleats, but he seems to make headlines for all the wrong reasons since retiring. In his most recent situation, Maradona was caught on film slapping an Argentine journalist after he apparently winked at Maradona's girlfriend. Via Soccerly, who has more on the situation: Controversial Argentine...
Via Standing O Sports
August 10, 2014 | Discuss
Diego Maradona Claims FIFA Officials Denied Him Access To 2014 World Cup Game
Diego Maradona led Argentina to World Cup victory in 1986 and to another final in 1990. He's regarded as one of the best soccer players of all time. But according to Maradona himself, that wasn't good enough for him to be allowed to watch his team take on Bosnia-Herzegovina in the 2014 World Cup on Sunday. Maradona — who is covering the tournament for Venezuelan TV – claimed...
Watch 'Maradona '86′ and 'The Opposition' On ESPN At 7pm ET Tonight; Review of New 30 For 30 Films
Last week's Hillsborough documentary was the first of eight films that ESPN will show over the next few months as part of its ESPN's 30 For 30 Soccer Series. Films two and three will air tonight at 7pm ET on ESPN with the debut of Maradona '86 and The Opposition. While Hillsborough was a feature-length film, Maradona '86 and The Opposition are closer to the lengths...
Via World Soccer Talk
April 22, 2014 | Discuss
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text:
Red Roof Inn North Little Rock
No prices found through our partners. Please contact the business directly or check some of our recommended alternatives.
How has this hotel rated in the past?
- Continental Breakfast
- Swimming pool
- Free High-Speed Internet
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Free parking
- Pets allowed
Travelers also recommend:
- More recommendations
TripAdvisor Reviews Red Roof Inn North Little Rock
Travel Blogs from North Little Rock
Paddle faster... I hear banjo music
... a full day and we were off to Pine Bluff where the Arkansas Railroad Museum is located. There are still a couple of buildings still standing where the St. Louis and Southwestern Railroad once had one of it's round houses and repair shops. Suzy and I walked into one of the buildings and found this older gentlemen, senior to us, sitting on a chair near the front door. Turns out, he was once the Superintendent of the railroad before ...
Days 9 & 10- Little Rock and Home
Our last stop was with Lauren and Eric, Luke and John William in Little Rock, Arkansas. The boys had a blast swimming and the girls had some great cuzzie time too. Eric even had a break from call and was able to eat dinner with us. We woke up the next morning and headed all the way into New Iberia. The family was waiting for us with a warm welcome. We all agreed 10 days and about 3000 miles across the country was surprisingly fun! And God blessed us with a safe trek ...
First Leg
... quite easy. Illinois is large. I'm talking stupid large. Or maybe tall, depending on whether you are looking at a map of it. As tall as Abe Lincoln's...hat. Anyway, we drove for half of our journey today and we were STILL in frickin' Illinois! It felt like sprinting up a down escalator- we just weren't getting anywhere at all!
In the middle of Illinois, we came across many strange sights. That's also a lie. It's hella boring ...
Day 11
... We didn't stop in any one location for too long today which got us to the campground by 3:30. It was suppose to be cooler here (which I guess it is at 36 degrees Celsius) but it feels a lot hotter with the humidity. Thank goodness the kids were able to hit the pool!
Today's total: 546.7 km
1.5 dead armadillo's spotted
Day 14 - Clinton Library
... stone and saying that this rock is 3.6 billion years old. In 100 years nobody will remember what we are arguing about. Let's calm down. Not a bad thought. In addition, Clinton was one of the most color blind leaders that we have had. Impressive stuff whether you are a Democrat or Republican.
Lunch at "The 42" ( the restaurant on the lower level of the library) was excellent.
We made the 75 mile run to Hot Springs National Park in about ...


text:
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If your morning didn't go as planned or your afternoon has taken a turn for the gloomy, getting back up is as easy as hanging these dangling keys by Hannah Makes Things from your ears! Boasting a love of whimsy and kitsch, this Manchester-based brand creates playful jewelry that's sure to be at the center of attention in any setting. Their Irish-inspired knots and antique-bronze hue send your mind swirling toward optimism, and their easy pairing with a simple black frock and rope-laced sandals is a look that the mirror will assure you is a stylish reason to smile!
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