bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Periodicity of Entire Functions with Finite Order
Authors: Ren Zhiguo , Dang Guoqiang
Published: May 2021

This paper is concerned with the periodicity of entire functions with finite growth order, and some sufficient conditions are given. Let

f

is a transcendental entire function with finite growth order, zero is a Picard exceptional value of

f

, and a given differential monomial

Q

f

of

f

is periodic, then

f

is also periodic. We are also interested in finding the following: let

f

is a transcendental entire function with finite growth order,

d

is a Picard exceptional value of

f

and

f

z

Δ
c
n

f

z

is a periodic function, then

f

is also a periodic function. These results extend Yang’s conjecture.
New Insight on Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Odontogenic Maxillary Sinusitis
Authors: Zhu Jianhua , Lin Wei , Yuan Wenwen , Chen Lili
Published: May 2021

Odontogenic maxillary sinusitis is often ignored by otolaryngologists, dentists, and imageological diagnosis doctors. Traditional treatments are often frustrating for refractory maxillary sinusitis and odontogenic maxillary sinusitis. In the last few years, new progress has been made in the diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis. Periodontitis, polyposis, and iatrogenesis are regarded as causes of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis. Dental implant dislocation into the maxillary sinus and augmentation are the main cause of iatrogenesis compared to root canal full material. The symptoms are too similar to distinguish odontogenic maxillary sinusitis from chronic rhinosinusitis. Computed tomography is the gold standard for diagnosis, while it is difficult to rule out odontogenic maxillary sinusitis by conventional panoramic radiographs. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is currently the most broadly used to make diagnosis and differential diagnosis for maxillary sinus disease. The imaging diagnosis, clinical diagnosis, and pathological diagnosis are often not completely in accordance. Most researchers believe that odontogenic maxillary sinus infection results from the spread of apical pathogenic microbial infections: either through the local vascular system, lymphatic system, or the Haval system of the alveolar bone itself. DNA and RNA sequencing of mucosal tissues of maxillary sinus disease confirmed that the mechanisms of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis and nonodontogenic maxillary sinusitis are different. Microbial RNA sequencing of the maxillary sinus also verifies this conclusion. Clinical serum testing of chemical factors has not been widely exploited. It is unknown whether the thickening of the maxillary sinus membrane is the result of pathogen infection or inflammatory mediators. Many doctors have recommended a consensus on multidisciplinary cooperation management, but a global consensus has not yet been reached. Diagnosis methods for odontogenic maxillary sinus disease are diversified. Tissue DNA and RNA sequencing, chemical factor determination, and microbiological DNA and RNA sequencing have appeared, and the misdiagnosis rate has gradually decreased. The pathophysiology of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis and chronic rhinosinusitis is different. The molecular mechanism of the thickening of the Schneider membrane in odontogenic sinus is unknown.
Unusual Cause of Bilateral Posterior Shoulder Fracture Dislocation: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Mutairi Owayed Ali , Abdulkarim Awdhah , Wahdan Khaled , Al-Shammari Yahia
Published: May 2021

A 34-year-old man presented 2 weeks after sustaining posterior fracture dislocation of both shoulders due to a fall from a bicycle while riding downhill. Posterior fracture dislocation of both shoulders is typically caused due to seizures or electrocution. In our patient, the injury was caused by trauma, which is exceedingly rare. Owing to the late presentation, management of such injuries usually entails joint replacement; however, due to his young age, both shoulders were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Bilateral posterior shoulder fracture dislocation is rarely encountered in clinical practice.
Tinea Capitis Presenting as Diffuse Hair Loss and Significance of Trichoscopy: Four Case Reports
Authors: Dhurat Rachita , Shukla Deepti , Agrawal Sandip , Chitalia Jill , Ghate Smita , Jage Mithali
Published: May 2021

Tinea capitis is a common fungal infection in children but is less frequently encountered in adults. Tinea capitis presenting as diffuse hair loss is a rare presentation. When patient presents with a diffuse hair loss, tinea capitis is not commonly thought of as differential diagnosis. Low clinical suspicion can lead to inappropriate empiric treatments that delay diagnosis. Trichoscopy in tinea capitis obviates the need for lengthy and invasive procedure or even KOH examinations in the absence of a side lab for diagnosing this common scalp disorder and also avoids misdiagnosis. Trichoscopy not only differentiates tinea capitis from female patterned hair loss but also aids in differentiating ectothrix from endothrix. Here, we present case reports of tinea capitis masquerading as female pattern hair loss with trichoscopy aiding in diagnosis of endothrix infection.
Optical Coherence Tomography and Microdialysis for Microneedle-Mediated Penetration Enhancement Study of Paeoniflorin-Loaded Ethosomes
Authors: Huang Jiayi , Cui Yahua , Yang Yanling , Li Huahua , Zhang Yi , Yang Haiju , Du Shouying , Bai Jie
Published: May 2021

Background: To understand the cumulative effect of topical formulations after medication, evaluate the therapeutic effect of microneedle-assisted (MN-assisted) paeoniflorin-loaded ethosomes (TGP-E), and explore the potential for deep penetration of drugs, this paper uses microdialysis to systematically study the percutaneous pharmacokinetics of TGP-E. Methods: First, optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to study the effectiveness of microneedle puncture. Second, a microdialysis method and a UPLC-MS method for determining the amount of paeoniflorin (Pae) in dialysate were established. Finally, the transdermal pharmacokinetics of TGP-E was studied using in vivo microdialysis in rats under the above MN-assisted conditions. Results: The optimal MN-assisted conditions were obtained at a microneedle length of 500 μm, a pressure of 3 N, and an action time of 3 min. The pharmacokinetic results demonstrated that the maximum drug concentration (Cmax) and the area under the curve (AUC) of the TGP-E gel were higher than the TGP-saline solution gel, and the mean retention time was lower. These indicated that microneedle can promote the entry of the ethosomes into the skin for in vivo experiments and greatly improve the possibility of deep penetration of the water-soluble Pae. Conclusion: Therefore, the microneedle-ethosomes delivery system is a more ideal means for promoting the deep penetration of Pae. These findings may provide a reference for the combination of multiple penetration-enhancement ways to promote drug absorption, and also provide a new insight to realize the development of novel, safe, and more effective dosage forms and administration routes of drugs.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Longitudinal Effects of Fear of Falling on Falls
Authors: Chen Tuo-Yu , Kim Giyeon
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Recent evidence suggests that the effects of fear of falling on falls may differ by race/ethnicity. This study investigated whether race/ethnicity (white, black, and Hispanic) moderated the longitudinal effects of fear of falling on the incidence of falling and having a repeated fall among community-dwelling older adults. Methods: We used data from 2011 to 2018 of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). These included a total of 19,516 person-intervals from 5,113 respondents. Any self-reported fall in the past year was the outcome variable with baseline fear of falling as the predictor and race/ethnicity as the moderator. Covariates included self-reported sociodemographic information, probable depression, chronic conditions, functional impairment, pain, insomnia symptoms, the Clock Drawing Test, the Short Physical Performance Battery, and grip strength. Results: Among respondents who had no experience of falling at baseline, baseline fear of falling increased the odds of having a new onset of fall at 1-year follow-up significantly among blacks, compared to whites (odds ratio [OR] = 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.44–2.38). No significant difference was found for Hispanics. Among respondents who already fell at baseline, baseline fear of falling increased the odds of having a repeated fall at 1-year follow-up significantly among Hispanics, compared to whites (OR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.06–3.44). No significant difference was found for blacks. Conclusions: Clear evidence of racial/ethnic differences was found in the relationship between fear of falling and falls among community-dwelling older adults in the USA. Special attention should be paid to black older adults with a fear of falling but have not fallen down recently and Hispanics with fear of falling and have fallen in the past year. Readily available educational programs should be actively advertised to older adults to reduce the fear of falling, and at the same time, culturally tailored educational programs should be developed for older adults from racial/ethnic minority backgrounds.
Decreased Retinal Sensitivity Overlying Choroidal Nevi
Authors: de Albuquerque Marina L. , Correa Zelia , Messias André , Jorge Rodrigo
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To report retinal function findings on the choroidal nevus. Methods: Prospective descriptive case series of 7 patients (n = 7 eyes) presenting a melanocytic choroidal lesion consistent with choroidal nevus and no other ocular disease. Baseline evaluation included measurement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), color and near-infrared fundus pictures, and spectral-domain OCT (Heidelberg Engineering). Retinal function was tested with microperimetry (MAIA; CenterVUE, Padova) using a standard grid (µP1) and a linear grid (µP2) that distribute test points on retinal areas that overlaid the choroidal lesion as well as lesion-free areas equidistantly to the fovea in 3 parallel lines. mfERG was performed following the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV) recommendation using a 61-hexyagon protocol. Results: BCVA was 20/25 (0.1 logMAR) or better in all 7 eyes. Microperimetry showed central stable fixation on all eyes, with mean ± SE sensitivity threshold significantly decreased on retinal areas overlaying the lesions (µP1): 21.8 ± 0.6 dB versus 25.2 ± 0.9 dB on nonaffected retinal areas (p < 0.001). Sensitivity was also decreased on µP2: 23.7 ± 0.2 dB for areas overlying the nevi and 25.7 ± 0.3 dB for the nonaffected retina (p < 0.001). mfERG responses showed no focal amplitude or implicit-time changes on the retina in the topographical region corresponding to the nevus for all patients. Conclusion: Our results indicate that choroidal nevi may cause significant retinal sensitivity impairment, as shown by microperimetry, but preserved mfERG response indicates that the retinal function may be only partially impaired.
Progression in Physical Frailty in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Ng Jack Kit-Chung , Chow Kai-Ming , Kwong Vickie Wai-Ki , Pang Wing-Fai , Cheng Phyllis Mei-Shan , Law Man-Ching , Leung Chi Bon , Li Philip Kam-Tao , Szeto Cheuk-Chun
Published: May 2021

Background: Physical frailty contributes to adverse clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Little has been reported about frailty transitions in this population. We aimed to describe the transitions of frailty in PD patients and identify factors that predicted changes in frailty state. Methods: In a prospective observational study, we recruited 267 PD patients. Frailty was assessed by a validated frailty score. Depression was graded by PHQ-9 score, and nutritional status was evaluated by serum albumin, Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), and comprehensive Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS). The primary outcome was the change in frailty score at follow-up compared to baseline. Results: At baseline, 194 (72.7%) patients were classified as frail. With time, their frailty scores significantly increased (p < 0.001), and 93 of the surviving subjects (78.2%) were classified as frail. There was a modest significant correlation between change in MIS (p < 0.001), change in SGA score (p < 0.001), and change in PHQ-9 score (p < 0.001) with change in frailty score. An increase in PHQ-9 score (p < 0.001) and MIS (p = 0.001), as well as longer duration of hospitalization (p = 0.001), was independently associated with a greater change in frailty score after adjustment for confounding factors. Frailty score was also improved in patients who were converted to hemodialysis (p = 0.048) and received renal transplantation (p = 0.005). Conclusion: Our findings suggested that frailty transitions were common in PD patients. Worsening in nutrition and depression, together with a longer duration of hospitalization, were associated with worsening in frailty.
Prevalence of Medically Resistant Epilepsy in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshurem Mohammed , Aldosari Mubarak M. , Aljaafari Danah , Alhashim Ali , Shariff Erum , Almatar Ahmad , Alhashyan Ibrahim , Almuaigel Mohammed , Almohish Noor , Altaweel Hassan
Published: May 2021

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of medically resistant epilepsy (MRE) in our hospital and to compare the prevalence with that in other populations. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients who visited the epilepsy clinics at King Fahd University Hospital, Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia between January 2017 and December 2018. This study included patients aged ≥14 years who had at least 2 unprovoked seizures 24 h apart. Patients who had provoked seizure(s), paroxysmal events, or syncope or had incomplete medical records were excluded. The definition and classification of the International League Against Epilepsy were used. Moreover, we searched the En­glish literature using PubMed and Google Scholar to compare the prevalence of MRE between our population and other populations. Results: In total, 1,151 patients were screened, and 751 patients were included in the final analysis. Of the 751 patients, 229 (male: 56.3%, female: 43.7%; mean age: 32.07 years, and standard deviation, 12.2 years) had MRE, with a cumulative prevalence of 30%. The etiology was as follows: unknown, 63.3% (n = 145); structural, 31.9% (n = 73); genetic, 3.1% (n = 7); and infectious, 1.7% (n = 4). None of the patients had metabolic or immune-related etiologies. Conclusion: The prevalence of MRE in our population (30%) is close to that in other populations (30–36.5%). Early identification of such patients is crucial to improve their management.
Characteristics of Regional Cerebral Blood Flow in Alzheimer Disease and Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment by Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kunieda Yota , Arakawa Chiaki , Yamada Takumi , Suzuki Mizue , Koyama Shingo , Kimura Yosuke , Ichikawa Takeo , Shino Shuhei , Yamada Minoru , Hirokawa Ryuto , Matsuda Tadamitsu , Takakura Tomokazu , Adachi Tomohide , Hoshino Haruhiko
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) distribution can affect brain functioning, leading to amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and mild Alzheimer disease (AD). This study aimed to clarify the detailed characteristics of rCBF distribution in patients with mild AD and aMCI. Methods: This cross-sectional study from April 2015 to March 2018 included 103 older adults (mean age 78.9 years; 60% females), out of a total of 302 adults, and categorized them into 3 groups according to cognitive symptoms. The normal control (NC), aMCI, and mild AD groups included 20, 50, and 33 participants, respectively. The primary outcome was rCBF, which was compared among the 3 groups using a 2-sample t test without correction for multiple comparisons. Results: In the aMCI group, the rCBF decreased in the bilateral parietal and left frontal association cortex and the bilateral premotor cortex (p < 0.01) but increased in the bilateral cerebellum (p < 0.01). In the mild AD group, the rCBF decreased in the bilateral parietal and occipital association cortex, the bilateral premotor cortex, the left temporal and frontal association cortex, and the left limbic lobe (p < 0.01). Conversely, the rCBF increased in some parts of the cerebellum, the bilateral frontal and temporal association cortex, the left occipital association cortex, and the right premotor cortex (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Based on the analysis of the values obtained, it was inferred that the rCBF undergoes reduction and elevation in aMCI and AD patients.
Female Urethroplasty: Anterior Vaginal Wall Flap (Blandy Flap) – Simpler Tends to Be Better
Authors: Navarro-Galmes Miguel Angel , Hernandez-Hernandez David , Padilla-Fernandez Barbara , Castro-Diaz David Manuel
Published: May 2021

Urethral stricture is a rare condition in women, representing a diagnostic challenge for the urologist. Its main etiology is traumatic or due to labor. Definitive treatment can be by means of dilations or urethroplasty using both local flaps and free grafts. In this study, we report the case of a patient with voiding symptoms during a period of 9 years after childbirth, despite an attempt of urethral dilation and chronic self-catheterization. The patient was finally diagnosed of a long distal urethral stricture, and she underwent urethroplasty with an anterior vaginal wall flap with satisfactory results. We take the opportunity to briefly review the diagnostic pathway in women with obstructive symptoms and the main female urethroplasty techniques.
Advances in Understanding the Pathogenesis of Lacunar Stroke: From Pathology and Pathophysiology to Neuroimaging
Authors: Jiang Shuai , Wu Simiao , Zhang Shuting , Wu Bo
Published: May 2021

Lacunar stroke (LS) accounts for about one-quarter of all acute ischemic strokes, represents an important marker of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), and has prognostic significance in terms of recurrent vascular events and vascular cognitive impairment. Our understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of LS is largely based on the meticulous postmortem work of C. Miller Fisher in the late 1960s, with scarce subsequent pathological analysis of the “lacunar hypothesis” and no reliable approaches for direct in vivo imaging of the small intracranial vessels. The recent development of high-resolution MRI, which allows both large-vessel wall and perforating arteries to be imaged in one setting, provides the opportunity to advance understandings of the clinical mechanisms, imaging characteristics, and pathogenesis of LS. Given accumulating evidence of endothelial dysfunction and blood-brain-barrier disruption as early features of CSVD-related LS, advanced imaging may allow various underlying pathogenetic mechanisms to be defined and for better targeting of therapeutic approaches in LS. In this review, progress in understanding the pathogenesis of LS is outlined, covering pathology, pathophysiology, and imaging characteristics, with a focus toward future directions in the complex entity of LS.
Depression Is Associated with Downregulation of IPS-1 in Chronic HBV-Infected Patients in a Sex-Dependent Manner
Authors: Safari-Arababadi Minoo , Modarressi Mohammad Hossein , Sheikhfatholahi Mahmood , Khaleghinia Mahdi , Arababadi Mohammad Kazemi
Published: May 2021

Background: Depression and anxiety can modulate immune-related molecule expressions. The chronic HBV-infected (CHB) patients suffer from inappropriate immune responses. Additionally, psychological disorders are prevalent among the patients. Thus, depression and anxiety may alter immune-related molecule expression. This study aimed to examine IPS-1 and RIP1 mRNA levels in CHB patients suffering from various degrees of anxiety and depression. Methods: Sixty patients with CHB participated in this research and completed standard questionnaires to evaluate depression and anxiety. The expression levels of IPS-1 and RIP1 were examined using real-time PCR techniques. Results: The result revealed that although the expression of IPS-1 and RIP1 did not change in the CHB patients with various ranges of depression and anxiety, IPS-1 was significantly decreased in the male CHB patients who suffered from mild, moderate, and severe depression when compared to the patients with no depression. Conclusion: So, it was hypothesized that depression may be associated with alteration in the expression of IPS-1 in a sex-dependent manner. In other words, it appears that the male CHB patients are at risk of depression-related alteration in immune-related gene expression.
The Effects of Aerobic Exercise in Patients with Early-Onset Dementia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Roman de Mettelinge Tine , Calders Patrick , Cambier Dirk
Published: May 2021

Background: Early-onset dementia (EOD) defines all dementia related conditions with an onset before the age of 65 years. EOD places a large and distressing psychological, emotional and financial burden on the individuals themselves and their caregivers. For various reasons, diagnostic and treatment strategies for EOD are very challenging. There is a general agreement that not only the human body but also the mind benefits from physical activity and/or exercise. Especially aerobic exercise has shown to have favorable effects on cognitive functions in healthy older adults, as well as in patients with MCI and dementia. However, there are major differences in age, physical fitness level and clinical presentation between EOD and late-onset dementia. Therefore, one cannot just assume that the same type and intensity of exercise will lead to similar effects in the former population. By conducting this scoping review, the authors aimed to identify the evidence on the effectiveness of aerobic exercise on physical and mental health outcomes in individuals with EOD, display gaps in this context, and formulate related directions for future research. Summary: There are a number of reasons to assume that aerobic exercise might be extremely valuable within individuals with EOD. However, this scoping review led to the surprising and striking finding that not a single study so far has investigated the effects of physical exercise on cognition, physical performance and feelings of well-being and quality of life in EOD. Although nowadays the disease is increasingly recognized, coping and (non-pharmacological) treatment strategies for EOD are virtually non-existent. Key Messages: Exercise intervention studies in EOD are lacking. With this scoping review the authors hope to inspire researchers in the field for related directions for future research. The potential beneficial effects of aerobic exercise in individuals with EOD should be explored and assessed extensively. Secondarily, decent guidelines for non-pharmacological treatment and coping strategies should be developed, with the aim of supporting people with EOD and their caregivers.
As Raízes weberianas de uma interpretação do Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Júnior Marcelo Vaz de
Published: May 2021

Sérgio Buarque de Holanda, ao retornar da Alemanha, na década de 1930, dedicou-se a um trabalho de interpretação sociológica acerca da realidade brasileira com base na metodologia weberiana, realizando um trabalho original. Para além dos tipos ideais, Holanda utilizou ideias contidas nas análises substantivas de Max Weber, como nos estudos sobre a ética protestante e sobre o processo de racionalização das esferas sociais, bem como do aporte histórico-comparativo e de análise em múltiplos níveis, os quais serão explorados no decorrer deste artigo.
Na escuridão da censura, surgiu uma luz: Lampião da Esquina e a imprensa alternativa (1978-1981)
Authors: Cava Joseph Bianchi
Published: May 2021

Sem pormenorizar, o presente artigo apresenta como foi implementada a censura prévia, no Brasil, durante a Ditadura Civil-militar, além de contextualizar a origem da Imprensa Alternativa e Homossexual nesse mesmo contexto. Assim sendo, após um levantamento bibliográfico para a realização de um projeto de Iniciação Científica sobre o jornal Lampião da Esquina, relataram-se os mecanismos utilizados pelo regime autoritário para controlar as produções midiáticas, possuindo como recorte, a imprensa. O artigo também estabelece um diálogo entre os tabloides alternativos, das décadas de 1960 a 1980, com o surgimento do periódico Lampião e do grupo SOMOS.
Os sons e a embriaguez na tragédia segundo Nietzsche
Authors: Silva Gustavo Ruiz da , Purves Ian Alakunle
Published: May 2021

O presente artigo tratará, no pensamento de Nietzsche, do cotejo entre a concepção de expressão musical e a noção de esquecimento de si. O filósofo, assim, a elabora a partir de uma interpretação peculiar da tragédia grega, da qual absorve as alegorias de Apolo e Dionísio, e finda por relacionar a música com sua concepção mais ampla de arte. Além disso, o artigo tece relações entre a mencionada formulação de Nietzsche, as concepções de Gênio Criador em Schopenhauer e de Obra de Arte Total em Wagner.
Abstract 12526: The Risk of Critical Congenital Heart Disease in Children Born After Assisted Reproductive Technology
Authors: Morimoto Yoshihito , Kato Taichi
Published: May 2021

Introduction:
Assisted reproductive technology (ART), which began 40 years ago, has spread all over the world. And 1 in 18 Japanese infants is conceived through ART. But it is known that infants conceived through ART have a high frequency of congenital anomalies and a high birth rate of congenital heart disease (CHD). Because of the high elderly birth rate and advanced medical system in Japan, Japan has the highest number of ART implementations in the world. However, there are no reports on the frequency of CHD in infants conceived through ART in Japan, so we performed this study.

Methods:
Four hundred eighteen infants diagnosed with critical CHD (lesions requiring catheter treatment or surgery within 28 days of life, or ductal-dependent lesions; CCHD) at the two pediatric heart centers from January 2014 to December 2019, were reviewed retrospectively.

Results:
In total, 229 males and 189 females were included in this study. The gestational age was 38± 2weeks. Maternal age was 32±5 years and paternal age was 34±6 years. Seventy-eight patients (19%) had chromosome abnormalities, gene abnormalities or syndrome. Sixty-one patients (15%) were conceived through fertility treatment and 46 patients (11%) were conceived through ART. One hundred eleven patients (27%) had univentricular heart defect (UVH). Compared with the proportion of ART (6%) in all births in Japan, the proportion of ART (11%) in CCHD was high. In addition, the proportion of ART in UVH was 20/111 (18%), while the proportion of ART in biventricular heart defect was 30/307 (10%) (p=0.0218). Among them, the highest proportion of ART in hypoplastic left heart syndrome and pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum was 7/23 (30%) and 5/19 (26%), respectively.

Conclusions:
The number of ART implementations in Japan is expected to increase in the future. At present, there are many cases in which infants conceived through ART cannot be diagnosed with CCHD before birth. Because infants conceived through ART might have a high incidence of complex CHD and UVH, they need more careful fetal follow-up than infants conceived naturally.
Progression of Preclinical Heart Failure: A Description of Stage A and B Heart Failure in a Community Population
Authors: Young Kathleen A. , Scott Christopher G. , Rodeheffer Richard J. , Chen Horng H.
Published: May 2021

Background:

The aims of this study are to evaluate the rate of progression of preclinical (Stage A and B) heart failure, identify associated characteristics, and evaluate long-term outcomes.

Methods:

Retrospective review of the Olmsted County Heart Function Study. Individuals categorized as Stage A or B heart failure at initial visit that returned for a second visit 4 years later were included. Logistic regression analyses evaluated group differences with adjustment for age and sex.

Results:

At visit 1, 413 (32%) individuals were classified as Stage A and 413 (32%) as Stage B. By visit 2, 146 (35%) individuals from Stage A progressed with the vast majority (n=142) progressing to Stage B. In comparison, a total of 23 (6%) individuals progressed from Stage B. A greater rate of progression was seen for Stage A compared with Stage B (8.7 per 100 person-years [95% CI, 7.4–10.2] versus 1.4 per 100 person-years [95% CI, 0.9–2.1];
P
<0.001). NT-proBNP correlated with progression for Stage B (
P
=0.01), but not for Stage A (
P
=0.39). A multivariate model found female sex (odds ratio, 1.65 [95% CI, 1.05–2.58];
P
=0.03), increased E/e’ (odds ratio, 1.13 [95% CI, 1.02–1.26],
P
=0.02), and beta blocker use (odds ratio, 2.19 [95% CI, 1.25–3.82],
P
=0.006) were associated with progression for Stage A. There was a signal that cardiovascular mortality was higher in individuals who progressed, although not statistically significant (
P
=0.06 for Stage A and
P
=0.05 for Stage B).

Conclusions:

There is significant progression of preclinical heart failure in a community population, with progression rates higher for Stage A. NT-proBNP correlated with progression for Stage B, but not for Stage A. No statistically significant differences in long-term outcomes were seen. Study results have clinical implications important to help guide future heart failure screening and prevention strategies.
Alleged Basic Meanings of the Hebrew Verb qdš “Be Holy”: An Exercise in Comparative Hebrew Lexicography
Authors: Clines David J. A.
Published: May 2021

Most Hebraists are familiar with the claim that the “basic meaning” of the Hebrew verb qdš is “to separate.” It was adopted by BDB, and is referred to by HALOT. This paper argues that the claim is unlikely to be correct.

In searching for the origins and rationale for this claim, which goes back at least to Reuchlin (1505), I encountered some other views propounded by Hebrew lexica of the past 500 years about the “basic meaning” of the root, including “be clean” (e.g., Gesenius, 1833), “begin” (e.g., Buxtorf, 1615) and (surprisingly) “be unclean” (e.g., Pagninus, 1529). These proposals also will be shown to lack adequate support.

I will argue that the verb qdš “be holy” and its derivatives have no underlying meaning apart from their denotation of the deity personally and of what belongs to the deity, such as his temple, his priests, his sabbaths, etc.
The imperative-hortative paradigm in Biblical Hebrew in typological and diachronic view
Authors: Notarius Tania
Published: May 2021

In this paper, applying the cross-linguistic criterion of formal homogeneity, I represent the morphological properties of the imperative-hortative paradigm (volitive modals) in classical Biblical Hebrew: each personal form is marked individually; the 1st person hortative (traditionally called cohortative) has two freely distributed spelling variants, with and without the ending -ɔ̄; the 2nd person (imperative) has two contrasted forms—the basic one and one marked by the ending -ɔ̄; the 3rd person (jussive) has just one allomorph. The imperative—hortative forms are not available in syntactic subordination, but they are used in different types of dependent clauses introduced by the conjunction w- “and”. One of the major hallmarks of the Biblical Hebrew verbal system is the influence of other paradigms—w-perfect, imperfect, and infinitive absolute—on the imperative-hortative paradigm. The linguistic diversity in the Biblical Hebrew corpus points to other types of the imperative-hortative paradigm that are explained in terms of the linguistic chronology—the archaic type and the late type of the imperative-hortative paradigm in Biblical Hebrew. In the conclusion, I will point to the circularity in the diachronic development of the volitive forms in Biblical Hebrew and to the correlation of the diachronic development with the cross-linguistic typology.
Time Speeds Up During Flow States: A Study in Virtual Reality with the Video Game Thumper
Authors: Rutrecht Hans , Wittmann Marc , Khoshnoud Shiva , Igarzábal Federico Alvarez
Published: May 2021

Flow is a mental state characterized by deep absorption during challenging activities, which was first studied by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. One of the defining characteristics of this state is the loss of the sense of time. Despite the widespread scientific interest in flow, there are few quantitative studies specifically on the aspect of time perception. The present study focuses on the relation between time perception and flow states in the context of video game play. Participants (n = 100) played the rhythm game Thumper for 25 minutes in one of two conditions: in virtual reality (VR) or on a computer screen (2D). Participants who played the game in VR performed better and had a stronger feeling of presence than those who played in 2D. Thumper was flow-inducing regardless of condition and the more flow participants experienced the less they thought about time and the faster time passed subjectively. The total score obtained by players as an objective measure of player performance was positively correlated with flow states, indicating that the more flow participants experienced, the better they played.
Time Compression in Virtual Reality
Authors: Mullen Grayson , Davidenko Nicolas
Published: May 2021

Virtual-reality (VR) users and developers have informally reported that time seems to pass more quickly while playing games in VR. We refer to this phenomenon as time compression: a longer real duration is compressed into a shorter perceived experience. To investigate this effect, we created two versions of a labyrinth-like game. The versions are identical in their content and mode of control but differ in their display type: one was designed to be played in VR, and the other on a conventional monitor (CM). Participants were asked to estimate time prospectively using an interval production method. Participants played each version of the game for a perceived five-minute interval, and the actual durations of the intervals they produced were compared between display conditions. We found that in the first block, participants in the VR condition played for an average of 72.6 more seconds than participants in the CM condition before feeling that five minutes had passed. This amounts to perceived five-minute intervals in VR containing 28.5% more actual time than perceived five-minute intervals in CM. However, the effect appeared to be reversed in the second block when participants switched display conditions, suggesting large novelty and anchoring effects, and demonstrating the importance of using between-subjects designs in interval production experiments. Overall, our results suggest that VR displays do produce a significant time compression effect. We discuss a VR-induced reduction in bodily awareness as a potential explanation for how this effect is mediated and outline some implications and suggestions for follow-up experiments.
Paul, the Law and Judgement by Works
Authors: Stettler Christian
Published: May 2021

This article seeks to shed new light on Paul’s teaching on the Torah. It does so by analyzing Paul’s different statements about the criteria of judgement by works. The result of this study is that it is the same criterion that applies to Jews and Gentiles, believers and unbelievers, namely the Torah as interpreted and fulfilled by the Messiah Jesus, practised by believers in the power of the Holy Spirit, and summarised in the double commandment of love. Thus the whole Torah is still valid in the time of the new covenant, but in a wholly transformed way.
Re-evaluation of the Amazonian Hylaeaicum (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) based on neglected morphological traits and molecular evidence

Authors: LEME ELTON M. C. , ZIZKA GEORG , PAULE JURAJ , AGUIRRE-SANTORO JULIÁN , HELLER SASCHA , RAMÍREZ-MORILLO IVÓN M. , HALBRITTER HEIDEMARIE , MARIATH JORGE E. A. , CARVALHO JORDANO D. T. DE , FORZZA RAFAELA C.
Published: May 2021

Generic status for the Amazonian Hylaeaicum is proposed within the Aechmea alliance, excluding it from the “Nidularioid complex” in general and from Neoregelia in particular. The monophyly of this new genus is supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses. The taxonomic circumscription of Hylaeaicum is based on the combination of geographical range and morphological characters, such as clonal growth, inflorescence structure, petal and corolla conformation, petal appendages, ovary, ovule, stigma, pollen, fruit, and seed, as well as seed anatomy, thoroughly documented and illustrated from field-collected specimens that flowered in cultivation in the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and in Refúgio dos Gravatás. The presence of seeds with long bicaudate appendages on both chalazal and micropylar ends is reported for the first time in Bromelioideae and considered an important character to distinguish Hylaeaicum from the related genera in the Aechmea alliance. In order to support the morphological distinctness of Hylaeaicum, the most varied and complete documentation of stigmata, fruits, and seeds of Bromelioideae is also presented for the first time, covering 24 genera and 17 subgenera. Fourteen new combinations, including 12 species and two varieties, are proposed.
On the taxonomy of the Prabhasa / Zadadra generic complex with descriptions of two new genera and two new species (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini)
Authors: DUBATOLOV VLADIMIR V. , VOLYNKIN ANTON V. , SINGH NAVNEET , JOSHI RAHUL , ČERNÝ KAREL
Published: May 2021

In the present paper, two new genera of the Prabhasa Moore, 1878 / Zadadra Moore, 1878 generic complex are described: Dentadra gen. nov. (Type species: Prabhasa flavicosta Moore, 1878) and Prabadra gen. nov. (Type species: Prabadra occidentalis sp. nov.). Additionally, two new species are described: Prabadra occidentalis sp. nov. (NE India and N Thailand) and Zadadra confusa sp. nov. (Nepal, NE India, Bhutan and W China). The new synonymy is established: Zadadra distorta Moore, 1872 = Zadadra neodistorta Joshi, Kirti & N. Singh, 2015, syn. nov. Two new combinations are established: Dentadra flavicosta (Moore, 1878), comb. nov. and Prabadra monastyrskii (Dubatolov, 2012), comb. nov. The lectotype is designated for Lithosia distorta Moore, 1872. Adults, male and female genitalia are illustrated. A checklist of the Prabhasa / Zadadra generic complex is provided.
Description of four new species of the spider genus Euryopis Menge, 1868, with new records from Brazil (Araneae, Theridiidae, Hadrotarsinae)
Authors: RODRIGUES EVERTON NEI LOPES , MARTA KIMBERLY S. , FIGUEIREDO CASSIANO P.
Published: May 2021

The spider genus Euryopis Menge, 1868 (Theridiidae) currently comprises 76 described species worldwide and only two described species from Brazil and none for Bolivia. In this paper four new species of Euryopis from Brazil and Bolivia are described and illustrated: Euryopis candiota n. sp.; Euryopis nasuta n. sp.; Euryopis catarinensis n. sp. all from Brazil and Euryopis boliviensis n. sp. from Bolivia. New records from Brazil are provided for E. camis Levi, 1963 and E. spinifera O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1895.
Uncertainty in the Parameterization of Surface Fluxes under Unstable Conditions
Authors: Srivastava Piyush , Sharan Maithili
Published: May 2021

In this study, an attempt has been made to analyze the possible uncertainties in the parameterization of surface fluxes associated with the form of non-dimensional wind and temperature profile functions used in weather and climate models under convective conditions within the framework of Monin-Obukhov similarity theory (MOST). For this purpose, these functions, which are commonly known as similarity functions, are classified into four categories based on the resemblance in their functional behaviour. The bulk flux algorithm is used for the estimation of transfer coefficients of momentum and heat using four different classes of similarity functions. Uncertainty in the estimated values of fluxes is presented in the form of deviation in the predicted values of momentum and heat transfer coefficients and their variation with the Monin-Obukhov stability parameter. The analysis suggests that a large deviation in the values of estimated fluxes might occur if different forms of similarity functions are utilized for the estimation of surface fluxes. Recommendations are made for the form of similarity function for momentum based on the analysis of one year-long turbulence observations over an Indian region. The study suggests that there is a distinct need to carry out a careful analysis of turbulence data in free convective conditions for determining a consistent functional form of the similarity functions to be utilized in the atmospheric models universally.
Blizzard Conditions in the Canadian Arctic: Observations and Automated Products for Forecasting
Authors: Burrows William R. , Mooney Curtis J.
Published: May 2021

Blizzard conditions occur regularly in the Canadian Arctic, with high impact on travel and life there. These extreme conditions are challenging to forecast for this vast domain because the observation network is sparse and remote sensing coverage is limited. To establish occurrence statistics we analyzed METeorological Aerodrome Reports (METARs) from Canadian Arctic stations between October and May 2014-2018. Blizzard conditions occur most frequently in open tundra east and north of the boreal forest boundary, with highest frequency found on the northwest side of Hudson Bay and over flat terrain in central Baffin Island. Except in sheltered locations, the reported cause of reduced visibility is blowing snow without precipitating snow in about one-half to two-thirds of METARs made by a human observer, even higher at some stations.

We produce three products that forecast blizzard conditions from post-processed NWP model output. The blizzard potential (BP), generated from expert’s rules, is intended for warning well in advance of areas where blizzard conditions may develop. A second product (BH) stems from regression equations for the probability of visibility ≤ 1 km in blowing snow and/or concurrent snow derived by Baggaley and Hanesiak (2005). A third product (RF), generated with the Random Forest ensemble classification algorithm, makes a consensus YES/NO forecast for blizzard conditions. We describe the products, provide verification, and show forecasts for a significant blizzard event. Receiver Operator Characteristic curves and critical success index scores show RF forecasts have greater accuracy than BP and BH forecasts at all lead times.
Kidney function and obstructive lung disease: a bidirectional Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Park Sehoon , Lee Soojin , Kim Yaerim , Cho Semin , Kim Kwangsoo , Kim Yong Chul , Han Seung Seok , Lee Hajeong , Lee Jung Pyo , Joo Kwon Wook , Lim Chun Soo , Kim Yon Su , Kim Dong Ki
Published: May 2021

Background

Additional study is warranted to investigate the causal effects between kidney function and obstructive lung disease.

Methods

This study was a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis. The Chronic Kidney Disease Genetics (CKDGen) genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) including individuals of European ancestry (n=567 460) provided the genetic instrument for kidney function and outcome summary statistics. A GWAS for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) including individuals of European ancestry from the UK Biobank (n=321 047) provided the genetic instrument for FEV1/FVC and outcome data. A polygenic score (PGS) analysis was performed to test the causal estimates from kidney function to binary obstructive lung disease outcomes, including COPD, asthma and FEV1/FVC <70%, and to perform nonlinear MR with individual-level UK Biobank data.

Results

The causal estimates by summary-level MR indicated that genetically predicted increased kidney function was significantly associated with increased FEV1/FVC z-scores (10% increase in eGFR; β=0.055, 95% CI 0.024–0.086). The PGS for increased eGFR showed a significant association with a reduced risk of FEV1/FVC <70% (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.87–0.99), COPD (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.87–0.99) and late-onset (age ≥50 years) asthma (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.88–0.99). The nonlinear MR demonstrated that the causal effect from eGFR to FEV1/FVC was apparent in eGFR ranges <60 mL·min−1·1.73 m−2. Conversely, genetically predicted FEV1/FVC showed nonsignificant causal estimates of eGFR change (β=0.568%, 95% CI −0.458–1.605%).

Conclusion

This study supports kidney function impairment as a causative factor for obstructive lung disease.
Occupational inhalant exposures and longitudinal lung function decline
Authors: Skaaby Stinna , Flachs Esben Meulengracht , Lange Peter , Schlünssen Vivi , Marott Jacob Louis , Brauer Charlotte , Çolak Yunus , Afzal Shoaib , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Sadhra Steven , Kurmi Om , Bonde Jens Peter Ellekilde
Published: May 2021

Background

Airborne exposures at the workplace are believed to be associated with lung function decline. However, longitudinal studies are few, and results are conflicting.

Methods

Participants from two general population-based cohorts, the Copenhagen City Heart Study and the Copenhagen General Population Study, with at least two lung function measurements were followed for a mean of 9 years (range 3–27 years). Occupational exposure was assigned to each year of follow-up between the two lung function measurements by a job exposure matrix. Associations between mean occupational exposure per year and mean annual decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) were investigated using linear mixed-effects models according to cohort and time period (1976–1983 and 2003–2015). We adjusted for sex, height, weight, education, baseline FEV1and pack-years of smoking per year during follow-up.

Results

A total of 16 144 individuals were included (mean age 48 years and 43% male). Occupational exposure to mineral dusts, biological dusts, gases and fumes and a composite category was not associated with FEV1decline in analyses with dichotomised exposure. In analyses with an indexed measure of exposure, gases and fumes were associated with an FEV1change of −5.8 mL per unit per year (95% CI −10.8– −0.7 mL per unit per year) during 1976–1983, but not during 2001–2015.

Conclusion

In two cohorts from the Danish general population, occupational exposure to dusts, gases and fumes was not associated with excess lung function decline in recent years but might have been of importance decades ago.
Body mass index and in-hospital mortality in patients with acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Awano Nobuyasu , Jo Taisuke , Yasunaga Hideo , Inomata Minoru , Kuse Naoyuki , Tone Mari , Morita Kojiro , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Nagase Takahide , Izumo Takehiro
Published: May 2021

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an interstitial lung disease characterised by chronic fibrosis, and acute exacerbation of IPF (AE-IPF) is the leading cause of death in patients with IPF. Data on the association between the body mass index (BMI) and prognosis of AE-IPF are lacking. This study was performed to evaluate the association between BMI and in-hospital mortality in patients who developed AE-IPF using a national inpatient database.

Methods

Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, we retrospectively collected data of inpatients with AE-IPF from 1 July, 2010 to 31 March, 2018. We performed a multivariable logistic regression analysis to evaluate the association between all-cause in-hospital mortality and BMI, categorised as underweight (<18.5 kg·m−2), low-normal weight (18.5–22.9 kg·m−2), high-normal weight (23.0–24.9 kg·m−2), overweight (25.0–29.9 kg·m−2) and obese (≥30.0 kg·m−2).

Results

In total, 14 783 patients were eligible for this study. The in-hospital mortality rate was 59.0%, 55.0%, 53.8%, 54.8% and 46.0% in the underweight, low-normal weight, high-normal weight, overweight and obese groups, respectively. Underweight patients had a significantly higher mortality rate (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.10–1.42) and obese patients had a significantly lower mortality rate (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.54–0.94) than low-normal weight patients.

Conclusion

Among patients with AE-IPF, the underweight group had higher mortality and the obese group had lower mortality.