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Safety of Nifedipine in Patients With Hypertension : A Meta-Analysis
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© 1997 American Heart Association, Inc.
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Safety of Nifedipine in Patients With Hypertension
A Meta-Analysis
From the Harvard School of Public Health (W.B.S.); MetaWorks, Inc (W.B.S., D.N., G.W.W., D.L., S.D.R., T.C.C.); Tufts University/New England Medical Center (C.H.S.); and Tufts University (T.C.C.), Boston, Mass.
Correspondence to William B. Stason, MD, MS, 29 Sandy Pond Rd, Lincoln, MA 01773.
Abstract Our objective was to compare cardiovascular event rates in patients with mild or moderate hypertension who received nifedipine with active drug controls. We performed a MEDLARS search using the MeSH heading "hypertension" and the text word "nifedipine" to identify all articles that were published between 1966 and August 1995 in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish languages and that involved human subjects. The computerized search was supplemented by a manual search of article bibliographies. Review of 1880 citations revealed 98 randomized controlled clinical trials that met protocol criteria. Articles were extracted independently by two doctors who were blinded for author, institution, and treatment regimen, using a structured, pretested extraction form. Differences of opinion were resolved by consensus. Fourteen events occurred in 5198 exposures (0.27%) to nifedipine and 24 events in 5402 exposures (0.44%) to other active drug controls. Unadjusted odds ratios for nifedipine versus controls were 0.49 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.22-1.09) for definitive events (death, nonfatal myocardial infarction or stroke, revascularization procedure) and 0.61 (95% CI, 0.31-1.17) for all events (definitive plus increased angina). The odds ratio for nifedipine monotherapy (sustained- or extended-release in 91% of exposures) was nonsignificantly higher for definitive and all events (odds ratio, 1.40; 95% CI, 0.49-4.03 and odds ratio, 1.39; 95% CI, 0.59-3.32, respectively). The odds ratio for nifedipine in combination with another drug was significantly lower for definitive and all events (odds ratio, 0.09; 95% CI, 0.01-0.66 and odds ratio, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.03-0.65, respectively). Differences in odds ratio for nifedipine monotherapy and combined therapy were statistically significant (P=.02 for definitive events and P=.001 for all events). Results support the safety of sustained- and extended-release nifedipine in the treatment of mild or moderate hypertension when it is used in combination with other drugs.
Key Words: nifedipine • meta-analysis • safety
Calcium channel blockers, including nifedipine, are widely used for the management of hypertension.1 2 Sustained- and extended-release nifedipine, alone or in combination with other agents, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of hypertension and has been endorsed in guidelines for the treatment of mild and moderate hypertension written by the Joint National Committee on the Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure.3
Two recent studies, however, have questioned the safety of calcium channel blockers in general and immediate-release nifedipine in particular. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of nifedipine involving patients with myocardial infarction (9039 subjects in 12 trials) or unstable angina (1226 subjects in three trials) and subjects undergoing coronary angiography (425 subjects in one trial) concluded that the use of immediate-release nifedipine was associated with a significant, dose-related increase in mortality.4 A population-based case-control study of pharmacologically treated hypertensive patients enrolled in the Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound (Seattle, Wash) found that the use of calcium channel blockers was associated with a statistically significant, dose-related increase in myocardial infarctions.5 On the basis of these findings, the authors recommended against the use of calcium channel blockers in patients with acute coronary syndromes and for restricted use in hypertensive patients until results are available from ongoing, large-scale clinical trials that are assessing cardiovascular outcomes of several antihypertensive agents, including calcium channel blockers.6 7 8 9
We performed a meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials to assess the safety of nifedipine in hypertensive patients and to examine rates of adverse cardiovascular events in patients receiving nifedipine as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs compared with other active drugs. Outcomes of interest were definitive cardiovascular events (death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, revascularization procedure during the study period) and episodes of new-onset or increased angina. We also examined other reasons for early withdrawal from studies.
This study used techniques for meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials described by Sacks et al.10 A prospectively designed study protocol defined the objectives of the study, eligibility criteria for the inclusion of trials, key data elements to be extracted, and analytical methods to be used. To be included, a study had to (1) be a randomized, controlled trial enrolling patients with mild or moderate hypertension, (2) be published in a peer-reviewed journal or supplement to such a journal, (3) enroll a minimum of 10 patients, (4) compare any nifedipine formulation, either as monotherapy or in combination with other agents, with a nondihydropyridine active drug or placebo control, and (5) monitor and report adverse clinical events and report them by treatment group. Eligible studies could be of either parallel or crossover design.
Studies were identified by a MEDLARS search using the MeSH heading "hypertension" and by searching for "nifedipine" as a text word. The search extended from 1966 through August 1995 and included articles published in English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish languages. CD-ROM Current Contents was searched independently. Computer-based searches were supplemented by manual searches of bibliographies of retrieved articles to detect other potentially acceptable studies. Retrieved abstracts and studies were screened by research analysts to exclude animal studies, nonqualifying languages, and nonrandomized clinical trials. Final eligibility was determined by the consensus of two independent physician reviewers.
Selected studies were blinded as to source, authors, and treatment groups.10 Each article was then extracted independently by two physicians or doctors of pharmacology using a pretested, standardized extraction form. Differences in opinions were resolved by consensus. The same reviewers assessed each study for quality using the scoring systems of Chalmers et al11 and Jadad et al.12 Administrative and treatment regimen data were extracted unblinded by an independent reviewer. Data were entered into Excel spreadsheets, verified by two research analysts, and downloaded as ASCII files for analysis with SAS software.13
Deaths, nonfatal myocardial infarctions, nonfatal strokes, and revascularization procedures that occurred during the study were classified as definitive cardiovascular events. Episodes of increased angina that led to withdrawal from the study were combined with definitive events in analyses of all cardiovascular events. Definitions of increased angina varied among studies and included unstable angina, crescendo angina, angina at rest, new angina, and increased frequency of chest pain.
Study withdrawals were classified as being due to adverse drug reactions (ADRs) or other causes. Withdrawals for ADRs included drug-related symptoms such as edema or headache as well as the cardiovascular events described above. Withdrawals for other causes included protocol violations, lost to follow-up, and inadequate therapeutic efficacy.
Because the majority of studies had no events in either the treatment or control arm, we could not compute within-study estimates of treatment effects. Heterogeneity statistics and random effects estimates could not be calculated for the same reasons.14 Incidence rates and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated from the total number of events comparing nifedipine study arms with corresponding other active drug arms in the same studies. An OR less than 1.0 favors nifedipine. Placebo arms were excluded from the analysis because of the small numbers of subjects and events. We compared our results with those obtained by application of the Peto method, which discards trials in which no event occurred in any study arm.15 Results were similar. In fact, unweighted pooling and Peto's method can be shown to give equivalent OR estimates when no more than one event occurs during a study and the OR equals 1.0. The two methods give approximately equal results when the odds differ by no more than a factor of 3.0. In any event, all of these methods rely on asymptotic approximation, which is more nearly satisfied when small numbers of events are added together.
Analyses of cardiovascular events were stratified by type of nifedipine formulation (immediate-release [three or four times a day], sustained-release [twice a day], or extended-release [once a day] and by whether nifedipine was prescribed as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs (combotherapy). To test whether the unadjusted ORs differed between the type of formulation and monotherapy versus combotherapy, we fitted two logistic regression models, each including a term for type of drug (nifedipine versus other), one of the stratification factors (type of formulation or monotherapy/combotherapy), and an interaction term. The interaction term was used to determine whether the OR for drug type differed by the stratification factor.
To investigate whether treatment effects were confounded with study-level covariates, we fit multiple logistic regression models and computed the adjusted ORs for treatment.16
Covariates and rationales for their inclusion were (1) drug run-in before randomization—a proxy for case severity that indicates the reluctance of the investigator to take subjects off all active medications; (2) duration of treatment—a longer duration would be expected to be associated with an increased risk of adverse events; (3) parallel or crossover study design—carryover effects between phases of crossover studies might obscure differences between treatment regimens; (4) quality scores—a higher quality score may indicate more complete recording of adverse events and reasons for withdrawals; (5) date of publication (1987 or earlier versus 1988 or later)—a break point that coincides with the introduction of both Good Clinical Practices (GCPs) in Europe and longer-acting nifedipine formulations; and (6) study location (Europe or other versus United States) since differences in study designs, data collection strategies, or reporting conventions may influence study outcomes.
Drug regimen characteristics (nifedipine versus control drugs and monotherapy versus combotherapy) and their interaction were included in all models. Dose relationships could not be explored because most studies that titrated doses did not report the distribution of doses patients received.
Study Characteristics
A total of 1880 citations were retrieved for
nifedipine in the treatment of hypertension. Ninety-eight
were accepted for the meta-analysis and are summarized in Table 1.17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 These studies contained 230 study
arms (111 nifedipine, 106 other active drugs, 13 placebo),
9506 subjects, and 11 020 treatment exposures (5198 to
nifedipine, 5402 to other active drugs, 420 to placebo).
The majority of studies were of parallel group design (69%), had
run-in periods with placebo or active drug controls (92%), involved at
least one monotherapy arm (81%), were of relatively short duration
(active treatment ≤12 weeks in 74%) and small size (47% enrolled
≤50 subjects), were performed in Europe (70%), and had been published
since 1987 (61%). Mean quality scores were 29.1 (range, 5 to 56) on
the Chalmers scale and 3.0 (range, 1 to 5) on the Jadad scale. These
quality scores are average compared with other randomized controlled
trials. Subjects were predominantly male (mean for all studies, 57%)
and had a mean age of 54.6 years (range of means, 42 to 74).
Sustained- or extended-release formulations were used in 85% of study arms and 91% of treatment exposures, and immediate-release formulations were used in 15% of study arms and 9% of treatment exposures. Starting doses were titrated upward to achieve the desired clinical response in 40% of study arms and reached a maximum of greater than or equal to 80 mg/d in 39% of study arms with sustained- and extended-release nifedipine and 35% of study arms with immediate-release nifedipine. The proportion of subjects who actually received higher doses was rarely specified.
Frequency of Cardiovascular Events
Nifedipine Versus Other Active Drugs
A cardiovascular event was reported in 0.27% of
patients in nifedipine study arms (14 events in 5198 drug
exposures) and 0.44% of patients in active drug control arms (24
events in 5402 drug exposures) (see Table 2). Overall,
there were 28 definitive events (deaths, nonfatal myocardial
infarctions or strokes, or revascularization
procedures during the study period) and 10 episodes of new or increased
angina. One or more cardiovascular events were reported
in 21% of studies. Table 3 and the
Figure present the associations between drug regimen
and the incidence of cardiovascular events. Unadjusted
ORs were nonsignificantly lower during nifedipine therapy
than during other active drugs for definitive events (OR, 0.49; 95%
CI, 0.22-1.09) and all events (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.31-1.17). ORs
adjusted for type of regimen and study-level covariates increased to
0.51 (95% CI, 0.23-1.13) for definitive events and decreased to 0.57
(95% CI, 0.29-1.11) for all events. Hence, there was no apparent
confounding of treatment effects by study-level covariates. Total study
duration was significantly associated with an increased risk of
definitive events. Total study duration, location of the study in the
United States, and higher study quality were independently and
significantly associated with an increased risk of all events
controlling for drug regimen.
Nifedipine Monotherapy Versus Combotherapy
Nifedipine was used as monotherapy in two thirds of
drug exposures and as part of combotherapy in one third of drug
exposures. In subjects on combotherapy, nifedipine was
combined with diuretics in 56% of subjects, ß-blockers in
29%, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
in 6%, and with both ß-blockers and a diuretic in 9%.
During nifedipine monotherapy, the OR for definitive events
was 1.40 (95% CI, 0.49-4.03), and during nifedipine in
combotherapy, it was 0.09 (95% CI, 0.01-0.66). Corresponding ORs for
all events were 1.39 (95% CI, 0.59-3.32) for monotherapy and 0.15
(95% CI, 0.03-0.65) for combotherapy. Differences between monotherapy
and combotherapy were statistically significant for both definitive
events and all events (P=.02 and P=.001,
Study Withdrawals
Study withdrawal rates were significantly higher during
nifedipine than active drug controls for both ADRs (OR,
1.74; 95% CI, 1.49-2.05) and all causes (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.17-1.5).
ADR withdrawal rates were significantly higher than controls for both
nifedipine monotherapy and nifedipine
combotherapy and were higher during nifedipine
monotherapy than nifedipine combotherapy. ORs were 2.36
(95% CI, 1.89-2.95) for monotherapy and 1.27 (95% CI, 1.00-1.60) for
combo-therapy. The higher ADR withdrawal rates for
nifedipine were primarily due to edema and symptoms related
to sympathetic stimulation (tachycardia, palpitations,
symptoms due to vasodilatation, dizziness, headache, and sweating).
This meta-analysis of nifedipine in the treatment of hypertension demonstrates a nonstatistically significant lower risk of cardiovascular events in subjects treated with nifedipine compared with control subjects who received other active drugs. The risk is significantly lower in patients treated with nifedipine in combination with diuretics or ß-blockers. The explanation of the latter finding may lie either in the greater efficacy of combotherapy or in an enhanced safety of using nifedipine in combination with other agents.
Our findings differ from those of the case-control study of Psaty et al5 that found increased rates of myocardial infarction in hypertensive patients treated with calcium channel blockers compared with control subjects treated with diuretics (risk ratio, 1.62) or ß-blockers (risk ratio, 1.57). In that study, the increased risk was dose related and statistically significant for diltiazem and verapamil but not for nifedipine and was present when calcium channel blockers were given as monotherapy or in combination with diuretics. One possible explanation for the differences in results lies in the shorter period of observation in our analysis—a mean of less than 12 weeks compared with a minimum of 1 year in the case-control study. Adverse effects in the latter, therefore, are more likely to reflect progression of coronary artery disease and less likely to result solely from short-term effects of the drug. Another possibility is that uncontrolled confounding by differences in case severity between cases and controls in the study of Psaty et al may influence the results. Patients treated with diuretic monotherapy in a clinical setting are likely to have less-severe hypertension and less symptomatic coexisting arteriosclerotic disease than those treated with nifedipine alone or in combination with other drugs. Finally, differences in results may reflect the fact that patients who remain on a drug regimen for a year or more are a selected population in the sense that they remain in care and are able to tolerate any side effects of their drug regimens.
Early withdrawals from studies may be due to ADRs, lack of efficacy, or protocol violations. Study withdrawal rates for ADRs were higher in subjects on both nifedipine monotherapy and nifedipine as part of combotherapy. They were more than twofold higher during nifedipine monotherapy than active drug controls. During both regimens, the symptoms that led to withdrawal reflected sympathetic stimulation or vasodilatation.
A major strength of our meta-analysis is the inclusion of the universe of relevant, published, randomized, controlled trials. The effects are to increase the generalizability of results and to minimize the likelihood of case-mix differences between study arms. Other strengths are the use of rigorous meta-analytic methods for screening studies; the blinding for author, institution, and treatment regimen of the doctors before extraction of the articles; dual extraction of articles by two physicians or doctors of pharmacology; and thorough exploration of the resulting database, including multiple logistic regression and substantiation of results by application of the fixed effects meta-analytic method proposed by Peto (Yusuf et al15 ).
Limitations relate to the relatively small number of cardiovascular events on which analyses are based; the relatively short duration of studies; the inability to adjust per-person rates for the duration of drug treatment because available information did not permit us to determine the timing of events relative to the initiation of treatment; the inability to explore dose relationships to adverse events because most studies did not provide information on actual doses received; and the paucity of patient-level data to permit case-mix adjustment across studies.
The results of our meta-analysis lend support to the safety of sustained-release and extended-release formulations of nifedipine in the treatment of hypertension, especially when they are used in combination with diuretics or ß-blockers. Evidence from the controlled clinical trials that are in progress will be required, however, to verify these conclusions.6 7 8 9
This work was supported by grants from Pfizer, Inc; US Pharmaceuticals Group; and Bayer AG, Pharmaceutical Business Group.
Received March 3, 1996; first decision March 25, 1997; accepted March 25, 1997.
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50 Gueret P, Artigou JY, Benichou M, Berland J, Fressinaud P, Grollier G, Nguyen CD. Comparative efficacy and safety of enalapril and sustained-release nifedipine in patients with mild to moderate hypertension: the Enalapril vs Nifedipine French Study Group. Drugs. 1990;39(suppl 2):67-72.
51 Hallin L, Andren L, Hansson L. Controlled trial of nifedipine and bendroflumethiazide in hypertension. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1983;5:1083-1085.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
52 Halperin AK, Icenogle MV, Kapsner CO, Chick TW, Roehnert J, Murata GH. A comparison of the effects of nifedipine and verapamil on exercise performance in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Am J Hypertens. 1993;6:1025-1032.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
53 Hannedouche T, Fillastre JP, Mimran A, de Treglode D, Schardt F, Rosenthal T, Grossman F, Rocco S. Ketanserin versus nifedipine in the treatment of essential hypertension in patients over 50 years old: an international multicenter study. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1987;10(suppl 3):S107-S112.
54 Harder S, Rietbrock S, Thurmann P. Antihypertensive efficacy of a slow release nifedipine tablet formulation given once daily in patients with mild to moderate hypertension: a placebo-controlled, double-blind parallel-group trial. Arzneimittelforschung. 1994;44:133-136.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
55 Hart W, Clarke RJ. ACE inhibition versus calcium antagonism in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension: a multicentre study. Ireland-Netherlands Lisinopril-Nifedipine Study Group. Postgrad Med J. 1993;69:450-455.[Abstract/Free Full Text]
56 Henry M, Wehrlen M, Pelletier B, Capron MH. Spironolactone versus nifedipine in essential hypertension. Am J Cardiol. 1990;65:36K-38K.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
57 Hosie J, Nasar MA, Belgrave GP, Walters EG. A comparative study of long acting diltiazem (Tildiem LA) with sustained release nifedipine (nifedipine SR) and bendrofluazide in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension. Acta Cardiol. 1994;49:251-265.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
58 Houston MC, Olafsson L, Burger MC. Effects of nifedipine GITS and atenolol monotherapy on serum lipids, blood pressure, heart rate, and weight in mild to moderate hypertension. Angiology. 1991;42:681-690.
59 Jackson G, Thirkettle JL, Taylor DJ, Jackson PG,Brennand-Roper D, Vella R, Manivannan A, Flora HK, Gupta S, Chapman CM. A double-blind crossover trial of atenolol, enalapril and the fixed combination of atenolol and nifedipine in mild and moderate hypertension. Br J Clin Pract. 1993;47:66-70.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
60 Jueng C, Halperin AK, Hashimoto F, Callender K. Nifedipine GITS and hydrochlorothiazide in essential hypertension. J Clin Hypertens. 1987;3:695-703.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
61 Klein WW, Stuhlinger W, Mahr G. Cross-over comparison between captopril and nifedipine. Postgrad Med J. 1986;62(suppl 1):108-110.
62 Landmark K, Dale J. Antihypertensive, haemodynamic and metabolic effects of nifedipine slow-release tablets in elderly patients. Acta Med Scand. 1985;218:389-396.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
63 Lederballe Pedersen O, Christensen CK, Mikkelsen E, Ramsch KD. Relationship between the antihypertensive effect and steady-state plasma concentration of nifedipine given alone or in combination with a beta-adrenoceptor blocking agent. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1980;18:287-293.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
64 Leon AS. Efficacy and safety of enalapril versus extended-release nifedipine for the treatment of mild-to-moderate essential hypertension: a multicenter 22-week study. Multicenter Cooperative Study Group [published erratum appears in Clin Ther. 1994;16:125]. Clin Ther. 1993;15:1094-1107.
65 Letellier P, Overlack A, Agnes E, Desche P. Perindopril plus nifedipine versus perindopril plus hydrochlorothiazide in mild to severe hypertension: a double-blind multicentre study: the Multicentre Study Group on Treatment Association with Perindopril. J Hum Hypertens. 1994;8:145-149.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
66 MacCarthy EP, Pettis PP, Gibson L, Schwartz L, Feig PU. The safety and efficacy of once-daily nifedipine coat-core in combination with atenolol in hypertensive patients: Adalat CC Cooperative Study Group. Clin Ther. 1993;15:976-987.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
67 Maclean D, Mitchell ET, Coulson RR, Fitzsimons TJ, McDevitt DG. Atenolol-nifedipine combinations compared to atenolol alone in hypertension: efficacy and tolerability. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1988;25:425-431.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
68 Maclean D, Ramsay LE, Richardson PJ. Enalapril and nifedipine in the treatment of mild to moderate essential hypertension: a 6 month comparison. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1990;30:203-211.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
69 Martinez de la Iglesia J, de Diego Cabrera MS, Gonzalez Santos C, Iribarren Marin MA, Calderon de la Barca Gazquez JM, Perula Torres L. Comparison of chlorthalidone and sustained-action nifedipine in the treatment of mild to moderate arterial hypertension. Aten Primaria. 1990;7:258, 260, 262-264.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
70 Midtbo K, Hals O, van der Meer J. Verapamil compared with nifedipine in the treatment of essential hypertension. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1982;4(suppl 3):S363-S368.
71 Morlin C, Baglivo H, Boeijinga JK, Breckenridge AM, Clement D, Johnston GD, Klein W, Kramer R, Luccioni R, Meurer KA. Comparative trial of lisinopril and nifedipine in mild to severe essential hypertension. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1987;9(suppl 3):S49-S52.
72 Murphy MB, Scriven AJ, Dollery CT. Efficacy of nifedipine as a step 3 antihypertensive drug. Hypertension. 1983;5(suppl II):II-118-II-121.
73 Myers MG, Leenen FH, Burns R, Frankel D. Nifedipine tablet vs. hydralazine in patients with persisting hypertension who receive combined diuretic and beta-blocker therapy. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1986;39:409-413.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
74 Nifedipine-Atenolol Study Review Committee. Nifedipine and atenolol singly and combined for treatment of essential hypertension: comparative multicentre study in general practice in the United Kingdom. Br Med J. 1988;296:468-473.
75 O'Donnell MJ, Rowe BR, Lawson N, Horton A, Gyde OH, Barnett AH. Comparison of the effects of an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor and a calcium antagonist in hypertensive, macroproteinuric diabetic patients: a randomised double-blind study. J Hum Hypertens. 1993;7:333-339.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
76 Ohman KP, Weiner L, von Schenck H, Karlberg BE. Antihypertensive and metabolic effects of nifedipine and labetalol alone and in combination in primary hypertension. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1985;29:149-154.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
77 Opsahl JA, Halstenson CE, Abraham PA. Antihypertensive and humoral effects of nifedipine in essential hypertension uncontrolled by hydrochlorothiazide alone. Am J Hypertens. 1989;2:828-833.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
78 Os I, Bratland B, Dahlof B, Gisholt K, Syvertsen JO, Tretli S. Lisinopril or nifedipine in essential hypertension? A Norwegian multicenter study on efficacy, tolerability and quality of life in 828 patients [published erratum appears in J Hypertens. 1992;10:following H9]. J Hypertens. 1991;9:1097-1104.
79 Pacheco JP, Fan F, Wright RA, Corkadel LK, Horwitz LD, Reeves RL. Monotherapy of mild hypertension with nifedipine. Am J Med. 1986;81:20-24.
80 Palmer A, Fletcher A, Hamilton G, Muriss S, Bulpitt C. A comparison of verapamil and nifedipine on quality of life. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1990;30:365-370.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
81 Palmer A, Fletcher A, Hamilton G, Muriss S, Bulpitt C. A comparison of the effects of verapamil and nifedipine on the quality of life. Wien Med Wochenschr. 1991;141:424-428.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
82 Poulter NR, Sanderson JE, Thompson AV, Sever PS, Chang CL. Comparison of nifedipine and propranolol as second line agent for hypertension in black Kenyans. BMJ. 1993;306:621-622.
83 Predel HG, Kramer HJ. Lisinopril versus slow release nifedipine in patients with essential hypertension: a multicentre study. J Hum Hypertens. 1994;8:777-780.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
84 Ramsay LE, Parnell L, Waller PC. Comparison of nifedipine, prazosin and hydralazine added to treatment of hypertensive patients uncontrolled by thiazide diuretic plus beta-blocker. Postgrad Med J. 1987;63:99-103.[Abstract/Free Full Text]
85 Richardson PJ, Meany B, Breckenridge AM, Grimmer SF, Johnston GD, Kondowe G. Lisinopril in essential hypertension: a six month comparative study with nifedipine. J Hum Hypertens. 1987;1:175-179.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
86 Richardson PJ, Meany TB, Johnston GD, Kondowe G, Grimmer SF, Breckenridge AM. Comparative efficacy of lisinopril and nifedipine retard in essential hypertension: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1987;10(suppl 10):S96-S98.
87 Roberts DH, Tsao Y, Linge K, McLoughlin GA, Breckenridge A. Double-blind comparison of captopril with nifedipine in hypertension complicated by intermittent claudication. Angiology. 1992;43:748-756.
88 Rogstad B. A comparison of lisinopril and nifedipine in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension: a multicentre study. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1994;46:487-489.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
89 Salvetti A, Innocenti PF, Iardella M, Pambianco F, Saba GC, Rossetti M, Botta GF. Captopril and nifedipine interactions in the treatment of essential hypertensives: a crossover study. J Hypertens Suppl. 1987;5:S139-S142.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
90 Schulte KL, Meyer-Sabellek WA, Haertenberger A, Thiede HM, Roecker L, Distler A, Gotzen R. Antihypertensive and metabolic effects of diltiazem and nifedipine. Hypertension. 1986;8:859-865.[Abstract/Free Full Text]
91 Senior R, Imbs JL, Bory M, Amabile G, Denis B, Zannad F, DeLuca N, Marchegiano R, Lahiri A, Raftery EB. Indapamide reduces hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy: an international multicenter study. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1993;22(suppl 6):S106-S110.
92 Serradimigni A, Perchicot E, Griener L, Kerihuel JC, Benichou M. Antihypertensive effect of a new form of nifedipine compared to a beta-blocker during chronic administration. Arch Mal Coeur Vaiss. 1985;78(Spec No):73-81.
93 Shamiss A, Meisel S, Nussinovitch N, Rosenthal T. Verapamil versus nifedipine in slow-release preparations for the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension. J Hum Hypertens. 1990;4:465-468.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
94 Singer DR, Markandu ND, Shore AC, MacGregor GA. Nifedipine and acebutolol in combination for the treatment of moderate to severe essential hypertension. J Hum Hypertens. 1987;1:31-37.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
95 Skinner MH, Futterman A, Morrissette D, Thompson LW, Hoffman BB, Blaschke TF. Atenolol compared with nifedipine: effect on cognitive function and mood in elderly hypertensive patients. Ann Intern Med. 1992;116:615-623.
96 Skoularigis J, Eitzman L, Davis J, Strugo V, Sareli P. Nifedipine versus captopril in the management of moderate hypertension in black patients. Am J Hypertens. 1994;7:440-447.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
97 Smith DH, Neutel JM, Jankelow D, Pretorius JJ, Myburgh DP. A comparative study of atenolol, nifedipine and their combination in the treatment of hypertension. S Afr Med J. 1991;79:12-15.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
98 Steiner A, Hany S, Battig B, Jenni R, Troesch M, Willimann P, Graf A, Leutenegger F, Angehm V, Beck G. Betaxolol versus nifedipine in the treatment of essential hypertension. Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax. 1988;77:1101-1103.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
99 Steiner G, Pauly NC. Comparison of the efficacy and safety of trandolapril and nifedipine SR in mild-to-moderate hypertension: Investigator Study Group. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1994;23(suppl 4):S81-S85.
100 Stumpe KO, Feldhaus P, Haerlin R. Antihypertensive effect and tolerance to urapidil: comparison with nifedipine in a multicenter double-blind study. Fortschr Med. 1989;107:54-57.
101 Sullivan FM, Murray TS, Gaw N, Langan JJ, Adams-Strump BJ. Is nifedipine a suitable first-line treatment for essential hypertension in general practice? Eur Heart J. 1987;8(suppl K):21-25.
102 Svetkey LP, Weinberger MH, Gavras H, Gavras I, Brown TS, Deterding J, Klotman PE. Double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of twice-daily nifedipine as a step-2 agent in mild essential hypertension. J Clin Hypertens. 1987;3:579-588.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
103 Testa MA, Hollenberg NK, Anderson RB, Williams GH. Assessment of quality of life by patient and spouse during antihypertensive therapy with atenolol and nifedipine gastrointestinal therapeutic system. Am J Hypertens. 1991;4:363-373.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
104 Van Hoof R, Desager JP, Harvengt C, Fagard R, Lijnen P, Peerenboom P, Staessen J, Thijs L, Van Mieghem W, Amery A. Comparison of the effect of celiprolol and nifedipine on blood pressure and plasma lipids. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 1992;20:268-273.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
105 Waller PC, Solomon SA, Ramsay LE. Comparison of ketanserin and slow-release nifedipine added to the treatment of hypertensive patients uncontrolled by a thiazide diuretic plus beta-adrenoceptor blocker. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1987;24:591-597.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
106 Walley T, Tsao Y, Scott A, Mackay E, Vandenburg M, Breckenridge A. Effects of dilevalol (R,R-labetalol) compared with nifedipine on heart rate, blood pressure and muscle blood flow at rest and on exercise in hypertensive patients. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1993;35:623-628.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
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108 Wing LM, Chalmers JP, West MJ, Bune AJ. Slow-release nifedipine as a single or additional agent in the treatment of essential hypertension: a placebo-controlled crossover study. Clin Exp Hypertens A. 1985;7:1173-1185.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]
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113 Zusman R, Christensen D, Federman E, Kochar MS, McCarron D, Porush JG, Spitalewitz S. Comparison of nifedipine and propranolol used in combination with diuretics for the treatment of hypertension. Am J Med. 1987;82:37-41.
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text:
Captain America: The Winter Solider is set for release on April 4, 2014, but fans can catch a glimpse of the action now with the below teaser trailer. The full trailer will be available on Apple iTunes beginning on Oct. 23, 2013, at 11/10c.
Marvel Entertainment doesn't disappoint with their brief 10-second teaser trailer. Captain America: The WInter Solider picks up several years after The Avengers as Captain America (Chris Evans) continues as an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. — the superhuman law enforcement agency in Marvel Comics.
Scarlett Johansson, who plays fellow S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Black Widow, says the Captain America sequel picks up exactly two years from The Avengers. "This film is in real time. It's been two years since [the character] appeared, and now both are agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., fighting the streets. We're not superheroes flying side-by-side. They help each other because we are fighting in a similar way. It's a working relationship."
Johansson also says she loves playing Black Widow in Captain America: The Winter Solider. "I think it is a sensational character. It is a professional, highly skilled, dangerous, mysterious superhero. I love playing it. I think that it is rare to find a woman sexy and intelligent on the big screen, able to fight anyone (including men) and overcome them physically and emotionally, and my character does it."
Black Widow is not featured in Marvel's 10-second trailer for Captain America: The Winter Soldier but hopefully we will get the chance to catch a peek at Scarlett Johansson's character in the full-length trailer out Thursday morning.
In the meantime, check out the teaser trailer below for Captain America: The Winter Solider below:
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Opened 9 years ago
Closed 5 years ago
#3538 closed defect (duplicate)
Plugin works correctly for logged-in users, but anonymous user (not logged in) can access the private page
Reported by: | Owned by: | Eric Hodges | |
Priority: | normal | Component: | PrivateWikiPlugin |
Severity: | major | Keywords: | anonymous |
Cc: | Trac Release: | 0.11 |
Plugin works correctly for logged-in users, but anonymous user (not logged in) can access the private page. Using Trac 0.11. Maybe I missed a setting, but it is not apparent. For now I revoked WIKI_VIEW permission from the anonymous group. If it is solely my omission in the setup and not a bug, I apologize; but please let me know what the fix is.
Attachments (0)
Change History (6)
comment:2 Changed 8 years ago by
Keywords: | anonymous added |
Same problem here. Using Trac 0.11. Disabling WIKI_VIEW from the anonymous group is not a such a good option as TRAC is normally includes a public section.
comment:3 Changed 8 years ago by
Severity: | normal → major |
It's the same for me !
Trac 0.11.1, and unlogged user can see everything !
comment:4 Changed 8 years ago by
I think I've fixed the bug locally by changing this line in api.py from:
if username == 'anonymous' or resource is None or resource.id is None:
if resource is None or resource.id is None:
I haven't tested all cases, but my configuration (where anonymous
has WIKI_VIEW
and authenticated
has PRIVATE_VIEW_ALL
) works as expected.
comment:5 Changed 8 years ago by
The fix in the last post worked perfectly for me on Trac 0.11.5. That was a pretty annoying bug, thanks for the fix!
comment:6 Changed 5 years ago by
Resolution: | → duplicate |
Status: | new → closed |
Duplicate: See ticket:3194


text:
Stores »
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text:
Warning Given
ōHow many are in the party?ö Mertirio of Angmar asked.
ōAt least twenty-five, my Lord Captain,ö the border guard told him.
ōYou are not certain?ö
ōNot all are seen, sir. Those who attempted to creep behind them to count their full numbers were all driven back to our side of the border with arrows and thrown stones.ö
ōThey have thrown stones at your Men?ö
ōYes, Captain. They apparently do not wish to cause permanent harm, and so throw just beside us or hit us in the shoulder. It is the same with the arrows--they are aimed just beside us, and are clearly not intended to harm--merely to warn.ö
ōAnd they demand to see me?ö
ōYes, Captain.ö
ōHow did they know I was here?ö
The border guard shrugged. ōAll that I know, Lord Captain, is that their spokesman has demanded you come to the parley at midmorning tomorrow.
ōDescribe him.ö
ōHe is typical of the D·nedain Rangers--tall, slender, well muscled, dark hair slightly shorter than shoulder length, short beard, eyes grey, determined and confident expression. All wear either grey or green cloaks, usually well-worn--this oneÆs is green. Carries a long sword and hunting bow and a dagger in his belt. He came forward with his bow at the ready.
ōWhat else of his garb can be seen?ö
ōWorn green riding leathers, archerÆs glove on his hand, excellently made boots, black trousers.ö
Trust the Man to notice the quality of the boots, Mertirio thought. ōDid he come riding or afoot?ö
ōAfoot was how I saw him.ö
Early the next morning Mertirio and several of those closest to him rode to the border. What he saw when he arrived surprised him. Sitting in a comfortable folding chair reading a book was a small figure in black and silver, the surcoat he wore over his shining mail embroidered in silver thread with a flowering tree below and seven stars in a circle above, with a winged crown between. He wore a belt of linked leaves, from which hung a black sheath wrought with silver. His feet were bare. He was quite the strangest sight Mertirio had ever seen. Opposite him sat another, also dressed in mail beneath a leather hauberk died in rich browns and greens. He wore an identical belt, from which also depended a sword. He had a book also in his lap, and a mug in his hand, from which he was drinking. A small table between their chairs held a plate with rolls and another mug. If Mertirio had been imagining all night what this parley would be like, heÆd never in his wildest thoughts have thought of this.
The two figures continued reading, and apparently were intent on finishing pages, or possibly chapters. The one in black and silver finally gave a sigh and set the book on the table, reached out and took the mug and drank from it, then looked up at him, his gaze curious but alarmingly competent. ōThey appear to have arrived, Meriadoc,ö he said to his companion.
The one in brown and green looked up, mild curiosity in his gaze. ōHave they really? About time.ö
ōShall we listen, or just slay them for their insolence?ö asked MertirioÆs lieutenant Septrion.
ōOh, if I were you, I would not seek to slay either of us,ö said the one in black and silver. ōYou would be dead before your stroke fell, you know. You are quite surrounded now.ö He rose languidly and stretched, then straightened dangerously. ōI am Captain Peregrin Took of the Guard of the Citadel for Arnor, Gondor, and the Shire. With me is Sir Meriadoc Brandybuck of the Shire and Rohan, Esquire to the King of Rohan and Holdwine of the Mark and also a captain of the forces of the Shire. About us are a number of archers under my command--at the moment; ones you are not likely to see clearly unless they wish you to see them. Oh, and one axebearer--I suppose you ought to be warned of that as well.ö
The other, whoÆd also risen, looked at Mertirio and those surrounding him coldly. ōMy Lord has granted me the authority to speak in his name, as his Lord has done likewise. You sent forth a troop of twenty to assault the Steward Halladan of Arnor or the King of Arnor and Gondor--or both, if it could be managed. I will warn you my Lord King ╔omer does not take threats offered his friend the Lord Aragorn Elessar or his Lord Stewards lightly.ö
ōNor does my Lord King Aragorn Elessar take threats to himself or his Lord Stewards or the peoples under his protections lightly. He was mightily angered. Six died in the Old Forest and the Barrowdowns, two by their own hand. The trees and wights have dealt with their bodies. One was executed for violence offered. You have had his body, I am told, for some days. The remaining thirteen have been taken, and eight should be returned to you in about a monthÆs time if they will not foreswear their vows to you and your land. The King has ordered they be shorn of their sword hands for their temerity in entering his lands in secret and threatening himself and his Steward and the company in which they rode, which contained many who are unarmed and untrained in war and defense, including women and children and folk of several races. The Elves and Dwarves who dwell in the lands which lie within and along the bounds of Arnor are highly displeased that your people would threaten their friend and ally, the Lord Aragorn Elessar of Arnor and Gondor, and his peoples and lands, and have offered their assistance in dealing with you, should it be necessary and desired.ö
He lifted from the table a scroll, and walked forward to hold it out to Mertirio. ōHere is the record of the inquiry and judgments our Lord King has made of the fourteen whom he questioned. And he sends by me this warning--if you do not pull your forces back from the borders of his lands by the end of the coming winter, he will come against you in the coming spring, and accompanying him will be supporting forces from the Wood, the Mountains, the Mark, and the Shire. Any from your lands who seek to enter Arnor will be taken, and if they will not foreswear their allegiance to Angmar they, too, will be either relieved of their sword hands or slain if they offer violence. In the meantime, it will be made clear to those who dwell along the borders of your land that any who carry and wield no weapons will be welcomed to become citizens of Arnor, should that be their desire.ö
ōHow do we know you are guarded as you have said?ö asked MertirioÆs lieutenant.
Suddenly his horse bucked and shied as a stone struck it on its withers, then other horses were also struck with stones thrown from several angles as well. The one who had identified himself as Captain Peregrin Took smiled. ōAs I said, unless they wish to be seen, you will not see them. These are but the forces of my land, and they are not intent on hurting you--not as yet.ö
One of those attending Mertirio who carried a bow raised it and started to reach for an arrow from his quiver, only to find himself dropping his bow, an arrow now high in his shoulder. The manling in the black and silver looked at him with casual interest. ōWe did warn you that there are archers there as well, did we not? They are very accurate.ö
ōYes,ö said the other, ōhad he wished to kill you, you would now be dead, that arrow either in your heart or in your throat.ö
Mertirio looked down at them with amazement. ōAnd why ought we to believe you are skilled in war?ö
The one in the hauberk smiled grimly. ōI fought before the walls of Minas Tirith itself alongside my sword sister, and slew many of SauronÆs orcs and some of the Men who fought for him as well. And together she and I slew the Witchking of Angmar. It was no child who stood against him, you see.ö
The other looked up at Mertirio coolly. ōAnd I was one of those who stood in the assault on the Black Gate itself. My sword I have named TrollÆs Bane, for with it did I slay one of the the creatures. We have also fought against trolls, orcs, and Uruk-hai in Moria, on Amon Hen, and at Isengard, and faced the Nazgul on Amon Sul and at the Fords of the Bruinen. And two others of our kind braved the desert land of Mordor and together did what was necessary to bring down Barad-dur itself.
ōWe are the forces of the Periannath. Rarely have we left our own lands, but we will no longer remain safe when others are threatened. And you will find that when we speak of war, we do not boast idly.ö
He turned and gestured behind him. Green and grey clad figures, Men and more Periannath, appeared from the trees, and came forward to remove trays and mugs, books, table and chairs. In moments they had disappeared again into the trees, and a tall figure in a stained green cloak, armed with long sword, hunting bow and quiver, and dagger, came forward leading two ponies saddled with rich tack, one white and one dun. The two Periannath gave shallow bows and swung easily into their saddles. It was obvious these ponies were blooded animals, neither of them particularly placid as was true with most of their kind. The Man gave a whistle, and a fine horse of a deep brown came to him, and he vaulted easily onto its bare back, turned, and looked down on the folk of Angmar with calculated disdain. The one in black and silver leading, the three of them rode off, disappearing uncannily among the trees.
Mertirio looked at the thick scroll in his hand, untied the black ribbon shot with silver threads that bound it, and examined it, not that he could read it, for all it was written in Westron. HeÆd never learned to read any tongue. He saw that at its top were a tree on the left side, a circle of seven stars on the right, a winged crown lower center with a depiction of a sceptre above it. The writing was clear and even and, he felt, relentless.
ōI will need to services of a scribe to understand this,ö he said, finally. They were aware of vague movements among the trees about the glade in which their group sat their horses, then the movement disappeared to the South. They realized they were free to go. Suddenly terrified, Meritirio signaled his folk, and they rode swiftly back to the North.
The eight prisoners rode South to Gondor amongst a troop of Rangers from Eriador, twenty Men, mostly young, yet all obviously competent. Their captain appeared to be in his mid-thirties, and carried sword, bow, and dagger. Every morning before they rode on there would be sparring involving fourteen of the group, three of the others on guard and the other three preparing the dawn meal and cleaning up after; and it was clear all were well trained, not only in standard swordsmanship but each in alternative methods as well.
All the prisoners were treated with respect, although before they made Tharbad all had become highly tired of the Hobbit and his complaints. Finally one of the Angmarians looked on him, saying, ōLeave off, manling, for no one can abide your constant yammering. No wonder your own folk have cast you out, for it appears you are incapable of looking beyond your own self.ö After that none of those from Angmar would have ought to do with Bedro, and even the Rangers were hard pressed to put up with him at times.
Bedro was most uncomfortable for the first week, for heÆd never ridden before. They had for him a rather lean horse and a saddle and short stirrups adjusted for his stature, but his horse was led the entire way. But as he was totally unprepared to live on his own and had realized that these Rangers were uncannily capable trackers, he did not try to get away, even on foot.
One of the youngest of those with whom they rode stayed by him along the road, and often sang as they traveled league after league. Tired of the enforced isolation, Bedro finally began to question him about the road they traveled, and the young Man answered courteously enough. Bedro didnÆt understand all he was told, but he learned enough to realize that all this land had once been under the rule of Elendil the Tall, the Lord of Arnor and High King over Arnor and Gondor combined. It was his followers who had built the first road through here, whose people had brought peace between the settlements of this land, who had brought law and who had united the land under one benevolent rule. Now it was ElendilÆs heir Aragorn son of Arathorn, the Lord King Elessar Telcontar, who renewed the Kingship and united North and South Kingdoms once again.
Bedro had seen the love between the Travelers and the King, the growing respect of Thain and Master for him as well. HeÆd realized the King had dealt with the invading soldiers well, and had been shocked and highly impressed with how quickly King, guard, and Pippin Took had managed to interpose their own swords to protect the Southern Steward. That the King was willing to take the guise of a Ranger himself Bedro didnÆt understand until at last the young guard, whose name was Hildigor son of Halladan, explained that the King had himself been a Ranger in both Arnor and in Gondor, that he was Captain of the Rangers of Arnor before he went South to assist in the defeat of Sauron. ōHe himself was chief of those who protected the borders of the Shire and the Breelands, and none know that region better than he, I suspect.ö
ōYou certainly seem to know a good deal about him,ö Bedro commented.
Hildigor simply laughed while others in the troop shook their heads at the HobbitÆs denseness. Many of those of Angmar, whoÆd paid more heed to the name of the father to the young Ranger, were most respectful to him, although among his own he was treated no differently than his fellows. It was not until they reached Rohan that it finally penetrated BedroÆs consciousness that the young Man who was most courteous toward him was the Lord Steward of ArnorÆs own son. Somehow this left him feeling most unsettled, as he tried to comprehend the world into which he had been ejected.
They remained in Edoras overnight, and the next day were on their way once more, their line escorted by an eored of Riders, the Rohirrim solemn and courteous, and, Bedro realized, potentially deadly. He looked on their spears, their keen swords, their battle axes, their short bows, their keen eyes, and realized that these were consumate warriors who would have no compunctions against killing him if they thought he posed a danger toward their land and people.
Five days later after hard riding and much eating in the saddle, they finally came in sight of Mount Mindoluin and the Northern reaches of the Rammas Echor; not long after they were approaching the city walls and the great gate of the city. They were welcomed and greeted, their orders accepted, read, and acknowledged, their horses stabled in the lowest level of the city, and they began the long walk up through the ways of the city of Minas Anor.
The prisoners were met in the Fifth Circle by a group of Guardsmen from the Citadel itself; these walked about them through the last two Circles and up the ramp to the level of the Citadel. Here they were marched toward the Citadel itself, although all found their attention captured by the monument that stood there, white Elven lilies, golden elanor, pale niphredil, and the soft blossoms of kingsfoil blooming about the feet of four Periannath. Bedro stopped in shock as he looked at it. He looked up at the Guardsman next to him. ōBut thatÆs the Travelers!ö he exclaimed.
ōTravelers?ö asked the Man.
ōPippin Took, Merry Brandybuck, and the Hobbiton gardener,ö he explained. ōThose are Hobbits, and I know them!ö
ōYou know Captain Peregrin and Sir Meriadoc and Lord Samwise?ö asked the Man. ōYet you do not know the Lord Frodo as well?ö
Beasty examined the one in the front, then flushed. ōHe hit me once, years ago,ö he said.
ōThe Lord Frodo struck you? And what were you doing to upset him? He was most gentle in his nature.ö
ōWhatÆs that in his hand?ö
ōThe Ring.ö The other prisoners looked on the memorial with curiosity, while the Rangers from Eriador bowed toward it with respect. They went by the White Tree, and again the Rangers bowed with respect. The doors to the Citadel itself were opened, and they entered.
In the Hall of Kings, at the foot of the Throne of Gondor, sat a tall Man in blue and silver on a tall black chair, and about him some of the captains of the army and Guards. The Guard escorted them forward until they stood near him. He rose in respect to welcome the Rangers. ōI greet you to Minas Anor. I am Imrahil, Prince of Dol Amroth and uncle to our Lord Steward Faramir, Prince of Ithilien, whom I believe you met ere you left Arnor.ö At their CaptainÆs agreement, he smiled, and introduced the officers who stood near him. ōThese will be speaking with each of you, and in a few daysÆ time they will make determinations as to which commands each of you will be assigned, although if your training is as we have seen in those who have come from Arnor before, you will undoubtedly do well no matter where you are placed. For now Lord Belerion will show you to your quarters and introduce you to those alongside whom you will serve for the next six months. Now, if you will tell me your names?ö
ōI am Beldarmir son of Orimirion, my Lord,ö said the captain of their troop, then named the rest of the Northern Rangers while handing the Prince the dispatches heÆd carried. ōWith us are prisoners who are to be housed in the prison behind the Citadel until the KingÆs return.ö He indicated one packet wrapped with silk.
The Prince gave a quick look at the eight, and took a second look at the one Hobbit present. He opened the packet and scanned the contents of the first page, looked back at the seven Men with interest, then gave a brief bow. ōThe King himself commends you to my guardianship, gentlemen. I grieve that we must hold you prisoner at all, but will give orders you are to be treated with respect and all courtesy.ö The Ranger Hildigor translated for the benefit of those who did not speak the Common Tongue.
He then read the second page, then reread it. Refolding it, he examined the Hobbit closely. ōMaster Bedro son of Bigelow? You, also, will remain in our prison until our Lord KingÆs return. It appears, however, that you have not earned the respect of our Lord Elessar that these have done. That is a surprise to me, for you are the first Pherian I have met who has been less than honorable. The Lord does ask that you be given four meals daily, although they will be adequate for the needs of a Pherian.ö Turning to one of the Guards who had accompanied the company from the Fifth Circle, he ordered, ōChoose five of your Men to accompany you and the prisoners to the prison, and take this with you. The rest of you may return to your regular duties.ö
With a salute and bow, the Man indicated five to remain with him and gave a gesture of dismissal to the rest. These bowed and saluted Prince Imrahil, then turned and marched to the center of the Hall of Kings, at which point they separated, some heading for the back regions of the Citadel while others went out to take up their duties in other areas about the sixth and seventh levels of the city.
Within minutes the seven Men and one Halfling had been taken out a side door and led around the building, then in through the doors of the prison area. The Warden of the prison read his orders carefully, and listened to the oral report of the one charged with bringing the prisoners to the cells, and nodded his understanding. He then called one of the guards within the prison to him. ōLivron, you speak the tongue of Angmar, do you not?ö When Livron indicated he did, he was instructed, ōPlease to interpret for me, then.
ōAll will be warned to treat you with all respect and care, gentlemen,ö he said directly to the prisoners. ōI ask each to indicate whether you wish to be housed alone or with one of your fellows, for the King has indicated this will be acceptable. You will, I fear, find your stay here somewhat boring, although if you desire we can provide books for your distraction and instruction while you are with us.ö
Two pairs of the Angmarians indicated they preferred to be imprisoned together, and the Warden indicated two of his Men should each take one pair to their cells. He then indicated another should take the other three to their cells. He then turned to the Hobbit himself. ōBedro son of Bigelow, I will lead you to your cell. Please follow me.ö
The room was larger than that in which Beasty had been housed in Bree, and definitely was cleaner. A cot had a reasonably comfortable mattress, linens, and pillow; there was a stool and small table, and adequate vessels made of metal for hygiene. A barred window looked out onto a small interior court. ōYou will be allowed to take exercise there for two periods a day until the KingÆs return,ö Beasty was told. ōIf you are courteous, you will find your guards will be more likely to be respectful in return. In the mean time we will be seeing to the arrangements needed for your period of enforced service.ö
Bedro Bracegirdle nodded his understanding, and the Warden bowed, and saw to the closing and locking of the door. Bedro sighed as he lifted himself onto his cot. Well, he was now in the capitol of the newly combined realm. Now that he was here, he wondered if he would ever leave it again.
Four weeks after their arrival in Minas Anor the seven Angmarians were released from their cells and brought together to the exercise area in the center of the prison complex. There they found waiting for them the King. ōI have altered the judgment given to the seven of you somewhat,ö he said in their own language, looking at each closely. ōHow I have done this will be made plain to you at the proper time. However, for now, I will say this. Tomorrow each of you will be taken to the Houses of Healing where you will each be given a sleeping draught to aid in what must be done, for I would have you feel no pain in what is to come. When you awaken you will find your sword hand thickly bound with bandages. Under no circumstances are you to remove these bandages until after you have returned to your own people and your own homes. Then and only then are you to remove them, and preferably in the privacy of your own homes with but your family present. Do you understand?ö
ōBut what about cleaning the wound and watching for infection?ö asked the one called Mustel.
ōThe manner in which the amputation will be done will leave no danger of such problems,ö the King assured them. ōYou will not feel particular pain afterwards, you will find. But until you have been returned to your own people it will best to leave the bandages on. This will be very important if you are not to die as a result of what has happened to you.
ōI will tell you this--I have been greatly impressed with the honor each of you has shown both to me and to those who have been about you since you were taken. The day after tomorrow you will begin your return to your own people. You will need little care, although a healer will accompany you on the return journey, and he will be giving you regular draughts to reduce the probability of pain. I myself will attend on you while you are in the Houses of Healing, and I swear I will do all I can to make what you experience as painless as possible.ö
Mustel of Angmar waited his turn to go to the Houses of Healing with anxiety. Soon, he realized, he would be relieved of his hand. How would he feel afterwards? he wondered. Would there be a great deal of pain? Would he still feel the ends of the fingers that were no longer there as Delru insisted was true for him since he lost his hand and much of his arm as well when he fell on the track through their village, and the iron-bound wheel of a freight wagon rolled over his wrist, crushing it and almost completely cutting it from his arm? He said it was most uncomfortable, how the hand that was not there would curl up with nonexistent fingernails dug into nonexistent palm, and he could not relax them any more. All of them were fearful of the day to come to one degree or another, that Mustel knew.
The door finally opened and a solemn guard stood there alongside the Warden of the prison holding a cup. The Warden bowed deeply as he presented the cup to Mustel. ōIt has been an honor to have you here, and for you to have waited in such patience, sir,ö the Warden said as the prisoner drank the wine which the cup contained. ōYou will find what is to come far less of an ordeal than you might think; but if you are to live to the aid of your own people, who will need you, give yourself well into the hands of the King, who will do what he must to return you to their needs.ö
ōThank you and your people that you have treated us well, sir Warden,ö Mustel said. ōBut how I am to be of use to my own people with my sword hand gone, I do not know.ö
The Warden smiled. ōYou may find yourself surprised once you realize the full depth of the KingÆs mercy, my friend. He has done what he must both to provide justice and to provide for the common folk of your people, now he has realized the full reasoning behind why most of you were chosen for this mission.ö
Once he saw that Mustel had drunk all within the cup, he received it back, then accompanied him outside and saw him given into the care of the three Guards of the Citadel who waited there, and they accompanied him around the building, past Tree and memorial and down the ramp. There they turned right, and they brought him to an arched gate, through the gardens area, and into the Houses of Healing where a tall Healer waited him. He, too, held a cup, but a smaller one than heÆd already been given.
ōYou have already been given one draught,ö the Healer said quietly as one of the Guards translated to MustelÆs own language. ōThis second will shortly make you feel very sleepy. The King will aid you to fall deeply asleep for the next part of what is to come. Trust him, for he will see you able to serve the needs of your people when that time comes.ö Mustel nodded, accepted the cup and drank from it. He had some difficulty getting it all down, for it was somewhat bitter, but drink it he did. He was led into a room and aided to remove his outer clothing.
The King entered, dressed in simple grey, helped him onto a high table, spoke with him, had him move his fingers, asked simple questions. When the dizziness hit Mustel felt suddenly terrified, but the King was able to reassure him, smiled at him. ōI will be by you. No real harm will come to you, you will find. But if you are to survive to the needs of your own people and village, this must be. Now, focus on the tip of my finger.ö
The KingÆs voice became soft and seductive, and Mustel found himself relaxing, his eyes finally closing, and he slept deeply.
Once Mustel had indeed lost consciousness, the King nodded. ōBring me the plaster,ö he said. He closed the fist around a roll of bandaging, then wrapped it tightly round with more bandaging until half the lower arm was swathed. Finally they handed to him lengths of bandaging that had been soaked in plaster, and he began to wrap the hand and wrist with it, swathing a good way up the arm, but not the full length of the bandaging that was there already. Finally it was all done, and he looked on it with a feeling of satisfaction. He then wrapped that with a layer of fleece, and put a soft wrapping over all, then a layer of tightly woven canvas to protect the rest.
ōWhy are they not to realize you have not taken their hands after all?ö asked Evamir once Mustel was moved to another room to sleep off the remains of the two draughts heÆd been given.
ōThey were sent out to assassinate Halladan or myself so that hopefully we would kill them and they would not pose any threat to the current leadership of their own people once it becomes obvious they seek only to dictate all that is allowed for those who remain in their lands. That I ordered the loss of their hands is known to them, and a copy of the judgment made has been given into the hands of Mertirio, the current war leader who would be dictator for all their people. If he knew they were not maimed after all, once they return to their own people he would have them killed that they not pose a threat. If he believes them maimed, he will allow them to live, for who will listen to the advice of a Man maimed by the enemy? Once it becomes plain to their own folk, however, that they were not maimed after all, and that they see clearly what Mertirio and his folk plan, they are most likely to listen and stand up to the would-be rulers of all.
ōIf they realize they have not lost their hands after all before they face Mertirio, it is unlikely they will be allowed to return home--probably they would be imprisoned and secretly killed before such could happen.ö
ōI do not like the use of the drink on the way home.ö
ōNor do I, particularly; but if the ruse is to work on them as well as those in Angmar, such would be expected. But orders have been given to reduce the amount of the drug daily until at the last they have nothing more than wine with some innocuous herbs in it by the time they return to the borders of their own land.ö
By that time the next soldier had been brought, and the King saw to the sleeping and the wrapping, until at last all seven and Sestor had their hands disguised.
Mertirio and his captains carefully watched the riders approach. All eight of the Men from Angmar had one hand identically bandaged, and they were accompanied by a group evenly made up by those in the black and silver of the Southern Kingdom and those in the grey and green cloaks of Rangers of Arnor. One among them was one of the small folk whoÆd taken part in the parley almost two months earlier.
HeÆd listened to the reading and translation of the KingÆs judgment with interest. That the King of Arnor and Gondor would return those who came against him still alive but only after having lost their sword hands impressed him. Here was one who would appear both merciful and just, but who realized what must be done to stop specific individuals from threatening him and his again, and who wanted the enemy properly impressed with his intent. Mertirio found himself admiring the astuteness of this foe, and glad these were returned alive after all. Let all see that the ruler of Arnor and Gondor was, for all his show of mercy, yet ruthless and thought nothing of maiming their forces, and the rest of his folk would more likely seek to defeat his army when it at last came to open battle.
The group stopped a good ways short of the border, and one of those who rode with them addressed the bandaged Men. ōI will now provide you with a special knife you will need to remove the heavy bandage you now wear. Remove the outer wrappings, then use this knife to cut through the plastered bandage underneath. The tip itself and outer side are dull, and it is specially curved to allow you to work it inside the cuff of the thing. Cut all the way down past where your hand would be, and do this from both sides. Remember, however, not to do this until you are home with your own families, and only those you trust about you. Otherwise all will be for naught.ö He handed a special tool to each of them and saw them put into packs or belt purses.
ōGood then,ö he said quietly. ōDo not tell them how courteously you were treated, as it will be lost on them.ö He went to his own place at the back and indicated to the Guards and Rangers they could go ahead, and watched after with prayers that the KingÆs elaborate ruse would be successful. The eight being returned appeared tired, but not a great deal worse for the wear. But the thick bandages on sword hands pleased Mertirio, for he knew that these would not raise sword against him, and being seen as maimed would not be treated as quite believable by their folk. He made a show of welcoming them back into their homeland, and saw the fourteen of their armed escort turn back to join the three whoÆd stayed back.
That night they stayed in the camp established for those whoÆd come to take part in the receipt of the prisoners. Mertirio had them brought to his tent and questioned as to what they had experienced.
Mustel ended up as their spokeman. ōWe were taken first to the gaol in Bree, and each locked into a separate cell. Near sunset we were taken to a hall which was being used as a judgment hall, and were attended by the armed Rangers whoÆd captured us. Eleven had been sent north of the road, including the archer--they were not with us. Avrigien, once heÆd given us our orders, withdrew further into the forest. After our arrival in the hall he was brought in by two other Rangers, and we realized he, too had been captured.ö
ōHow was the judgment carried out?ö
Mustel described the two tables and how representatives of the Northern Kingdom sat at one and those from the South at the other, and the inclusion of the short manlings called Periannath as well in the party. He described the relentless questioning, and finally how the King himself had been revealed as one of the two Rangers flanking Avrigien.
ōDescribe him.ö
ōTaller than the rest, but like them in appearance. Almost all have dark hair and beards and grey eyes, and wear grey or green cloaks with a star on the left shoulder. Only he wears no star on his cloak. He wore blue-grey riding leathers beneath, which once the cloak was removed we realized were richly decorated, embossed and inlaid with silver. His eyes are keen, but so it is with the rest. He appears to be in middle years, but is slender and athletic in build, and well muscled. He wore but sword and dagger when we saw him, but we were told as we traveled South he is also an excellent bowman in his own right, as is true even moreso of his primary lieutenant. The quickness of his draw of his sword when Avrigien threatened his Southern Steward was amazing, I must say. He, the one who had remained at AvrigienÆs side, and the Perian guard all had their swords interposed before Avrigien could complete his attempt to kill the Man. And his eyes when he pronounced the fate of Avrigien were--relentless.ö
ōWho did he have behead Avrigien?ö
ōHe said he would do this himself.ö
ōDo you believe he did this?ö
ōYes. I do not think the King of Arnor and Gondor chooses to speak idly.ö
ōWhen were your hands removed?ö
ōJust ere we were sent back north through Arnor again, back here to our homes.ö
ōHow was it done?ö
ōNone of us knows how it was done, for we were each given sleeping draughts that we not be aware of the pain of it. And we were constantly given draughts which were reduced day by day that any pain be relieved throughout our return journey. We awoke in their Houses of Healing and found our arms like this. We were told that the plaster bandages were intended to keep anything from bumping the stumps and causing pain ere they were completely healed, and the outer bandages to keep the plaster from causing bruises to the rest of our bodies.ö
ōHave any of you known infection?ö
ōNo, Lord. We were told special herbs would be used to guard against such. Their healers appear to be well trained, and the King himself is a healer as well.ö
ōYou are certain of this?ö asked one of MertirioÆs lieutenants.
ōPositive,ö Sestor said quietly. ōThere were at least three healers in the KingÆs party when I was taken, and he was the one who did the most to remove the arrow which impaled my arm.ö
ōWhen was your hand removed?ö
ōHe told me what judgment heÆd given the rest while we remained in Rivendell where I was questioned. He had me ride South with him, and I went through the Houses of Healing with the rest, woke to find my arm thus.ö All others agreed this was how each had experienced it.
ōA King who is a healer and a warrior both--an unusual Man,ö Mertirio commented.
ōAnd one gifted in languages as well,ö Mustel added.
ōWhat of the others, whose swords were broken?ö
ōWe know not,ö Mustel said.
ōThey accompanied us South, were told they would not be allowed to return to Arnor,ö Sestor added.
Sestor was asked to explain how he was taken, and both he and Mustel repeated the descriptions theyÆd been given of the Old Forest and Barrow Downs, although Sestor did not tell how heÆd been advised that the haunting of the Barrows had been caused by the Lord of the Nazgul rather than the D·nedain.
ōAnd you say that the King was accompanied by several of the manlings known as Periannath?ö
ōWe were told they were known both as Hobbits and Periannath or Pheriannath, depending on the one speaking the word. But, yes, there were several, at least two of whom are trained superbly in the use of the sword, and many of whom are skilled with bows, and all of whom appear to be skilled with thrown stones.ö
ōMen, women, and children all three. And one is renowned for the killing of the Witchking, and another for the killing of a great troll, although I have been told all who went South with the King before have slain orcs of several kinds.ö
ōWhat other business did you see the King do?ö
ōThere was a conference for all who live within the bounds of Arnor, both East and West of the Misty Mountains. Not only did Men come from the various parts of Arnor, but Elves, Dwarves, and the Periannath as well. They spoke on the manner in which each people will maintain its borders, and how they will approach the borders of the lands of others. They spoke of coinage and how the coinage of each land will compare to that of the King as well. They spoke on the education of their children and the goods each has to trade with others. They spoke on the enemies of each people and the allies of each as well. They discussed how they will deal with lawbreaking and when one will be sent to stand before King or Stewards rather than to be dealt with locally. And they spoke as to how they will deal with the threat we pose, although from these talks I was excluded.
ōI also saw the King marry two couples, one from among the Periannath and one from among his own kinsmen from Eriador. He and two among the Periannath saw to the wedding of the Hobbits.
ōAnd I saw the practice of several weapons by all parties, including the King, Elves, Dwarves, Men, and Hobbits. All are well trained and experienced, and I would not wish to draw sword against the Hobbit who is among the KingÆs own guard.
ōThe King himself did the stitching of my wound, and it was seen to by healers from among the Elves, Men, and Hobbits as well.ö
ōThe Periannath have healers?ö
ōYes, my Lord. The one who kept an eye on my wound appeared very skillful.ö
Mertirio and his lieutenants all looked at one another. Finally one of his followers commented, ōYou each carry your own sword?ö
Perdenon nodded. ōYes, my Lord. They were returned to us this day, and we were told that as we proved honorable opponents we would be allowed to pass our swords on to our sons, as is done among their people.ö
Several of the captains laughed at that.
Afterwards the eight of them were shown to a tent. One of them, one named Gershim, started to pull out the tool given them by the Rangers. Sestor caught his hand and shook his head. ōNo, you donÆt want to do that here,ö he said quietly. ōIf you do this where you might be seen, it will mean the death of all of us. You must not take it off until you are in your own home and where no one but your own families can see.ö
ōBut why?ö
ōI cannot say why. I only know that the King changed our final judgment, and how he did it is only to be revealed when we have returned home. Mertirio and his fellows must not see how his judgment was changed.ö
They all looked at one another, and finally Gershim returned the tool to his belt purse once more.
Within three days each of the former prisoners had been allowed to return to his own home, and finally, once they were assured no one other than their own family members were with them, each found himself pulling out the tool given them at the last and beginning the cutting of the plaster bandages.
The one called Perdenon gladly removed the outer bandages, then inserted the curved cutting blade and began to cut. It took time, a good long time. Finally the youngest of his three brothers, looking into the loft room where Perdenon was working on freeing his arm at last, offered to help, and soon heÆd managed to get one side of the thing cut. Getting the other side cut went faster, and finally it was peeled away--and then came the unwrapping of the inner bandages.
When at last the last bandage was removed and he found his hand was still there, clutched around a roll of cloth, he looked at it amazed. HeÆd not moved it for so long he could barely get the muscles to flex--but finally he was able to straighten his fingers, move them a bit. He sat heavily on the cot where he slept at night, and remained looking between his hand and his brother for some time.
ōIÆve been told the King had changed the judgment given me,ö he said quietly, ōbut not that heÆd decided against removing my sword hand after all.ö He looked up into his brotherÆs eyes. ōWhy would he go to such elaborate lengths to convince even me that heÆd followed through on the threat?ö He was suddenly glad this was his youngest brother, and not one of the elder two or his father, for he knew that Pelos would keep his own counsel where the others would report this immediately to Mertirio and the other captains.
Pelos stood shaking his head. ōI do not know, but I suspect this was done for the benefit of others more than for your own.ö
ōI think,ö Perdenon said, ōthat I had best speak to Sestor. He may have some knowledge of the King to share regarding this. What I have been told repeatedly, however, was that I was not to remove the bandages until I was with those I trusted completely, that otherwise I was likely to die.ö He searched his brotherÆs eyes. ōWould Mertirio truly have killed me had I returned still with my hand intact, do you think?ö
PelosÆs face grew hard. ōHe has never favored you, nor the others sent with you on the mission to kill the Steward or King.ö
ōSo,ö Perdenon said slowly, ōhe might not cause other harm to me if he believed I could no longer wield a sword....ö Together the two of them contemplated his hand, which had lost muscle but was not destroyed or lost, and thought of the nature of their own leadership.
GershimÆs oldest son helped in the removal of the bandage, and looked at the hand clutched about the roll of bandages at the center. ōBut, my father, I thought you told me that this hand had been removed.ö
ōI was told it was to be removed....ö
ōBut why the bandages, the plaster?ö
ōI have no idea....ö Gershim looked at it, totally perplexed, willed the fingers to move, finally got some response out of them. ōBut I was told not to remove these in the camp, that it would lead to the deaths of all....ö
ōMertirio and his fellows do not love you.ö
ōAnd he was cheerful enough to see me with that on my arm....ö A gladness went through him. ōI have not lost it after all, can still, in time, wield a blade once again! And Mertirio does not know this. He wished Mertirio to think I was powerless to ever speak against him in a manner to which others will listen.ö His eyes grew steely at the thought. ōTo find I have more respect for the king of our enemies than I do for our own war leaders----ö
His son considered. ōIf this is true, then what does this say about our war leaders, my father?ö
Sestor managed to cut the bandages from his arm himself, and was not
surprised to see he still had his hand beneath. It would take time to return it to its former strength, but he would be able to bend his bow again--not that he ever intended to bend it against the forces of the King of Arnor and Gondor. However, the discussions regarding the nature of Mertirio had had their effect on him, had clarified in his own mind why he had always distrusted the Man and his followers.
Now none of the war leaders saw him as a threat any longer, and would most like pay him no attention. Well, that pleased him no end.
MustelÆs cousin helped remove the plastered layer of bandages and to unwrap the final layers underneath. As the two of them looked at the hand hidden in the midst of all, wonder and gladness filled them both. Mustel had a time of it, getting the fingers, so long immobile, to move, but they finally began to answer to his will. He shook his head.
ōSo,ö he said at the last, ōthis is what the Lord King Elessar did not wish for the war leaders to see, what he wished revealed only to those I can trust.ö He looked up to catch his cousinÆs eye. ōI think, once the strength returns to my hand, I will be somewhat a shock to Mertirio.ö
ōWell, he deserves a shock, for his plan is to control all, to tell us even when and what we are to eat and drink.ö
ōHe sent us to test the defenses of the leaders of Arnor, and if we died heÆd have been full glad. Well, we were not killed, not unmanned, or even relieved of our hands. We have seen the King of Arnor and Gondor--heÆs a far better Man or leader than Mertirio, Irthorol. I have a mind to speak to the others who came back from Gondor with me. We can perhaps prepare a surprise for Mertirio and his folk.ö
And throughout Angmar it was much the same in each of the houses in which those whoÆd been to Gondor removed their bandages. One was angry at the King of Arnor and Gondor until his wife pointed out he was alive and home, and not likely to be sent on another suicide mission. The idea that heÆd been sent on the last mission in the hopes heÆd die caused him to think more deeply about whether or not he would support Mertirio and the other war chieftains in the future, and his wife indicated she would speak with her brothers.
Aragorn, on seeing in the Palantir that the former prisoners from Angmar were back in their homeland, smiled. It would be interesting to see what the coming year brought in the relations between Arnor and Angmar, much less within Angmar itself.


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American based company Prysm has unveiled its next-generation LPD tile. The new LPD tile delivers a new enhanced mode which offers 427 x 320 per tile resolution, allowing videowalls to scale to 2x and 3x HD.
The concept behind the LPD display platform remains the same, with ultra violet, solid state lasers scanning the surface of the screen to excite the phosphor array and create the image. Ultra wide 178° degree viewing angles provide great visual experiences from anywhere in the surrounding space.
"We truly believe that this is a case of making the best even better. Thanks to breakthrough innovation, this next generation of LPD technology makes Prysm videowalls the most immersive and engaging display solutions ever for collaboration, communication and branding," says Amit Jain, Prysm president and CEO.
Prysm LPD videowalls can scale to sizes over 100 feet wide while maintaining image uniformity over the entire display area. Multiple users can interact simultaneously with Prysm's videowalls through touch, motion sensing and their mobile devices.
Since its initial release two years ago, LPD videowalls have been adopted by leading brands across the world in technology, retail, financial services, and media as well as by major governments and universities. This includes Sweden's Wallenberg Auditorium, IAC's HQ in New York, Dubai TV's prestigious News and Sport Studio, GE's Customer Experience Center in Canada and Burberry, where an LPD videowall greets shoppers in the flagship Regent Street store, creating a captivating backdrop and an engaging retail experience.
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