bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract EP44: Longer Retirement Time Is Associated With Lower Left Ventricular Mass In Retired National Football League Players
Authors: Smith Genevieve , Fernandez Alonso Camilo , Stewart Gregory W
Published: April 2022

Background:
Increased left ventricular mass (LVM), a common structural phenomenon associated with athlete’s heart, has been reported to regress following cessation from systematic high-intensity training. However, information is limited on the interplay between length of retirement and LVM in former professional field-based athletes, a segment of the population in which both hypertension and obesity, factors generally associated with increased LVM, have been reported as highly prevalent. Thus, we aimed to explore this observation in a group of former National Football League (NFL) players.

Methods:
This complete-case analysis included 1,348 retired NFL players (aged 53.3 ± 12.8 years, 55.5% Black) that participated in the NFL’s Player Care Foundation comprehensive health screenings between 2015 and 2021. Years since retirement from professional American-style football (YrsRetired) was calculated as year of examination minus the last self-reported year playing for the NFL. Echocardiography was used to estimate LV mass, which was then indexed to height
2.7
(LVMI). LVMI was divided into quartiles and stepwise binary logistic regression models were fitted to assess the association of YrsRetired with the lowest quartile (Q1) of LVMI, after adjusting for traditional cardiometabolic risk factors, NFL career length, and playing position group (Model 1); cardiometabolic risk factors and playing position group (Model 2); or cardiometabolic risk factors only (Model 3).

Results:
The prevalence of hypertension and abdominal obesity in our sample was 75.1% and 57.1%, respectively. Mean retirement length was 24.8 ± 12.7 years (range: 1.0 - 59.0 years), and mean LVMI was 40.3 ± 9.7 g/m
2.7
. Increasing YrsRetired was independently associated with higher odds for LVMI Q1 (Model 2, odds ratio [OR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00-1.07, p= 0.04 ; Model 3, OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.00-1.07, p= 0.03). When adding NFL career length to the model, the association between YrsRetired and LVMI Q1 was attenuated (Model 1, p = 0.91).

Conclusions:
Longer retirement is associated with lower left ventricular mass in this group of retired NFL players. These findings suggest that regression of LVM following retirement from professional sport may be common in former NFL players, despite the high prevalence of hypertension and obesity reported in this population. Further, these findings imply that elite sports participation may have a potential buffering effect against hypertension and/or obesity-induced hemodynamic changes that increase LVM, which seem to particularly occur after retirement from professional sports. This potential instance may be impacted by professional career length.
Abstract EP47: Ten Thousand Steps For Health: A Regional Project For The Promotion Of Physical Activity
Authors: Canevari Mattia , Degano Cristina , Graniero Francesco , Mos Lucio
Published: April 2022

A sedentary lifestyle is globally recognised as one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and today’s society, along with its behaviour, tends to favour it. To spread awareness about this, the World Health Organization has set the minimum level of physical activity an individual should undertake in order to significantly reduce the risk of developing such diseases. Considering walking for its ease and reproducibility, the exercise threshold is represented by the number of steps a person should take on average in a day and is identified to be ten thousand steps. The aim of our project is to tackle sedentary behaviour by encouraging physical activity and promoting a correct lifestyle for the citizens of Friuli Venezia-Giulia.

The lack of the public spaces in which to practice physical activity safely is one of the main factors that discourages people from exercising. As such, with the promotion and implementation by Regione Friuli Venezia Giulia and Federsanità ANCI FVG alongside with the collaboration of Direzione Centrale Salute and PromoTurismo FVG, several walking routes within the regional territory have been redeveloped and improved by the addition of plentiful signage. In order to better reach out to the various communities about this project, an advertising campaign about the routes themselves and the importance of the exercise was started on a variety of websites as well as the most popular social media platforms. Furthermore, walking groups from different municipalities interested in the project have been directly involved and training courses have been set up in conjunction with volunteer doctors and professionals with a degree in Physical Education to inform people about specific muscle exercises that will target the general well-being. As a result of our project, fifty-nine routes have been created in all Friuli Venezia-Giulia, all of which contain historical, social and cultural value, and will give people the opportunity to exercise in an easy and safe way that will ultimately reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, a statistical analysis conducted by the Department of Economic and Statistical Sciences of University of Udine on media coverage and use of the routes, showed that the project has reached a great percentage of the population and is used by many people.

Positive results have so far been produced in Friuli Venezia-Giulia and such a project has not only attracted the attention of other Italian Regions, but has also interested other European Countries. Our next goal is to readapt “Ten thousand steps for Health” so it can be applied in other environments.
Abstract EP48: Long Term Improvement In Cardiorespiratory Fitness Ameliorates Insulin Sensitivity Beyond The Response Of Visceral/Ectopic Fat In Viscerally Obese Men
Authors: Murphy-Despres Adrien , Lemieux Isabelle , Almeras Natalie , Tremblay Angelo , Bergeron Jean , Poirier Paul , Despres Jean-Pierre
Published: April 2022

Introduction:
The SYNERGIE study has documented the effects on the cardiometabolic risk (CMR) profile of a 1-year lifestyle intervention targeting physical activity (PA) and diet followed by an additional 2-year maintenance period in a sample of 144 men with visceral obesity and an atherogenic dyslipidemia. Previously published results, following the 1-year intervention, had reported significant improvements in CMR markers and a decrease in intramuscular lipids assessed by computed tomography (CT) using the area of low attenuation muscle (LAM) as a marker. However, following the 2-year maintenance period, a slight deterioration of CMR markers including visceral adiposity (VAT) was observed, with the exception of circulating insulin levels.

Hypothesis:
In this secondary analysis, we tested the hypothesis that variations in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and LAM could explain the long-term improvement in insulin sensitivity indices.

Methods:
Anthropometric measurements and an oral glucose tolerance test were performed at 0, 1 and 3 years, as well as a submaximal exercise test to assess CRF. Areas and volume of VAT and areas of LAM at mid-thigh and L4-L5 (psoas and core) were measured by CT. Participants were classified into two groups based on CRF changes observed during the 2-year maintenance period: CRF increased (CRF+) and CRF decreased (CRF-).

Results:
Complete data were available in a subsample of 72 men (52±8 years). Mean annual PA decreased from 143 min/week during the intervention to 103 min/week after the 2-year maintenance period (p<0.05). CRF changes during the maintenance period were negatively correlated with changes in psoas LAM area (r=-0.31; p<0.01) and core LAM area (r=-0.30; p<0.05). Changes in psoas LAM area (r=0.29; p<0.05) and core LAM area (r=0.35; p<0.01) were also correlated with changes in insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The CRF+ group showed a greater decrease in HOMA-IR than the CRF- group (p<0.05). CRF was found to limit the deterioration of the CMR profile observed during the 2-year maintenance period (smaller gain in BMI, waist circumference, VAT volume, and LAM at the psoas; p<0.05).

Conclusion:
Despite some gain in VAT observed during the 2-year maintenance period following the initial 1-year lifestyle intervention, participants who were able to maintain or even increase their CRF during the 2-year maintenance period were those whose insulin sensitivity continued to improve, regardless of the changes in LAM. In conclusion, these results are consistent with the importance of targeting CRF for the long-term management of CMR in men with visceral obesity.
Abstract EP49: 6-minute Walk Test Distance And Atherosclerosis, Expressed As Carotid Intima-media Thickness, In Older Korean Adults
Authors: Yoo Tae Kyung , Lee Jong-Young
Published: April 2022

Background:
Carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) is a well-known marker of atherosclerosis and future cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction. The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) is a widely used method for evaluating aerobic fitness and functional exercise capacity. However, no studies have assessed the relationship between 6MWT distance and cIMT in older adults. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the association between aerobic fitness expressed as the 6MWT distance and cIMT in older Korean adults.

Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed raw data of the 2014-2015 Korean Institute of Sports Science Fitness Standards, a national fitness measurement project in Korea. Participants older than 65 years and who underwent 6MWT and cIMT measurements were included in the study. The 6MWT was performed, and the total distance that the participants covered in 6 min was measured. The cIMT was defined as the distance between the lumen-intima and the media-adventitia interfaces. The cIMT was measured at the proximal 1 cm of the right common carotid bulb. A high-resolution ultrasound device with a frequency of ≥11.4 MHz was used for cIMT measurement. We adjusted the data for multiple confounding factors. Statistical analyses were performed using generalized linear regression analysis.

Results:
Overall, 608 participants were included (male, n=302 [49.67%]; female, n=306 [50.32%]). The mean participant age was 70.99±4.22 years (male 71.48±4.40 years, female 70.50±3.98 years). The mean cIMT was 0.74±0.18 mm (male 0.78±0.19 mm, female 0.70±0.16 mm). The mean 6MWT distance was 479.15±92.82 m (male 499.96±85.88 m, female 458.60±94.94 m). After multivariable adjustment, the highest 6MWT distance tertile was inversely associated with cIMT (β [95% confidence interval (CI)]: -0.042 [-0.080, -0.005]; p=0.027) versus the lower tertiles. In the subgroup analysis, the male group did not show a significant association with cIMT, while the highest 6MWT distance tertile in the female group showed a significant inverse association with cIMT ((β [95% CI]: -0.049 [-0.098, -0.001]; p=0.049).

Conclusion:
Our results suggest that there is an inverse relationship between 6MWT distance and atherosclerosis, expressed as cIMT, in older Korean adults.
Abstract EP53: The Association Of Oral Hypofunction/locomotive Syndrome And Increased Arterial Stiffness
Authors: Matsumoto Chisa , Tomiyama Hirofumi , Matsuura Mari , Nakano Hiroki , Shiina Kazuki , Yamashina Akira
Published: April 2022

Background:
Frailty is associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Recently, oral hypofunction, a disease in which the oral function is complexly reduced not only by ageing but also by a variety of factors, is regarded as a risk factor for frailty. Also, locomotive syndrome, which is defined as reduced mobility due to impaired locomotive organs, is reported to have close association with frailty and oral hypofunction. However, no studies evaluated the association of oral hypofunction / locomotive syndrome and arterial stiffness, a marker of CVD. The objective of this study is to evaluate the association of oral hypofunction / locomotive syndrome and arterial stiffness.

Hypothesis:
We hypothesized that subjects with oral hypofunction or locomotive syndrome have increased arterial stiffness compared to those without oral hypofunction and locomotive syndrome.

Methods:
Japanese Subjects above 50 years old who underwent annual health-checkup were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Subjects with history of CVD and dementia were excluded. Arterial stiffness was evaluated by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). Oral hypofunction was evaluated the methods based on the guidance by the Japanese Association for Dental Science. Seven oral factors, oral hygiene, oral moisture, occlusal force, tongue-lip motor function, tongue pressure, masticatory function, and swallowing function were assessed. Oral hypofunction was diagnosed if more than 3 factors showed deterioration. Locomotive syndrome was evaluated by the questionnaires (GLFS-25) and physical performance tests consisted of those for quadriceps muscle strength, a two-step test, and a stand-up test according to the guidance by the Japanese Orthopedic Association. The association of oral hypofunction / locomotive syndrome and baPWV was assessed by multivariable linear regression analysis adjusted for conventional CVD risk factors.

Results:
Among 148 subjects (mean age: 59±7 years), 82 subjects (55%) had either oral hypofunction or locomotive syndrome (oral hypofunction: 33 subjects, locomotive syndrome: 65 subjects). BaPWV in subjects with either oral hypofunction or locomotive syndrome was significantly higher than subjects with none of them (mean baPWV: 1501±292 v.s. 1368±238cm/sec, p=0.003). Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that the existence of either oral hypofunction or locomotive syndrome was significantly associated with increased arterial stiffness (β=100±39, p=0.01).

Conclusion:
The existence of either oral hypofunction or locomotive syndrome was associated with increased arterial stiffness. Further research on oral hypofunction / locomotive syndrome and CVD is warranted.
Abstract EP55: Qualitative Evaluation Of Older Adult Participants Of A Community Outreach Telehealth Program For Covid Education And Health Promotion (Coach)
Authors: Yang Michelle C , Clayton Cam , Harris Devin , Pelletier Chelsea , Schmidt Julia , Zwicker Jill G , Sakakibara Brodie
Published: April 2022

Background:
Chronic diseases are prevalent in Canada’s aging population (≥65 years). Positive health behaviours (e.g., physical activity, healthy diet) are critical for the management of chronic diseases (e.g., stroke, heart disease). However, novel coronavirus (COVID-19) prevention strategies of quarantining, social isolation, and physical distancing may compromise one's ability to manage health and engage in daily activities, possibly increasing risk of adverse health events. The Community Outreach teleheAlth program for Covid education and Health promotion (COACH) program has demonstrated an increase in health promoting behaviours, but little is known about participants’ experiences in participating in the program. The program entailed six telehealth sessions over two months that focused on health coaching, behaviour change, and COVID education. The objectives of this study were to describe: (1) chronic disease prevention and management strategies of older adults (≥65 years of age) during COVID-19; and (2) participants’ experience in COACH sessions delivered by medical students at the University of British Columbia.

Methods:
Twenty-four COACH participants participated in semi-structured interviews that were conducted through Zoom videoconferencing. Interview questions focused on how participants managed their own health before and during COVID-19. Qualitative description was the guiding methodological framework. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically.

Findings:
Participants’ mean age was 73.4 years (58% female) with 75% reporting two or more chronic conditions (e.g., stroke, heart disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes, heart attack). Three themes described participants’ prevention and management strategies, including: i) having a purpose for optimizing health; ii) using internal self-control strategies; and iii) leveraging external support strategies. COACH further supported participants during COVID-19, as represented through coach interactions as well as knowledge and skill development.

Conclusion:
Findings suggest that older adults engage in internal self-control strategies and external support means to manage current chronic conditions and promote health and well-being. Health professional program students have a potential role in health promotion and in assuming the role of coach in telehealth promotion programs for older adults.
Abstract EP69: Age, Sex And Race Disparities In Hypertension Control: The Multi-Ethnic Study Of Atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors: Bhayani Siddharth , Durazo-Arvizu Ramon , Liu Kiang , Daviglus Martha L , Michos Erin , Markossian Talar , Rakotz Michael , Wozniak Greg , Egan Brent M , Kramer Holly J
Published: April 2022

Introduction:
Hypertension control is lower among women than men after age 65 years, but it is unknown whether age and sex disparities in hypertension control differ by race and ethnicity. We used data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), to assess the association of age, sex, and race with hypertension control.

Methods:
At baseline, MESA enrolled 6814 adults aged 45 to 84 years without clinical CVD during years 2000-2002 followed by 5 follow-up exams. Due to loss of follow-up after exam 5, analysis was limited to participants with use of BP lowering medications at any of the first 5 MESA exams (n=2017). Hypertension control was defined as BP < 140/90 mmHg based on average of second and third BP readings at each exam. Among 873 men and 1144 women with treated hypertension, mean baseline age was 64.1 (9.1 [SD]) years and race/ethnicity was non-Hispanic white in 34.1%, 10.1% Chinese, 35.1% Non-Hispanic Black and 20.7% Hispanic.

Results:
Figure 1 shows the fully adjusted proportion of participants with hypertension control at any of the first five MESA exams by age group, sex and by race and ethnicity. In all racial and ethnic groups, hypertension control declined with age among women and was lowest at age 75+ years. However, this decline in hypertension control with advancing age was most pronounced among Hispanic women, a group with the lowest adjusted proportion with hypertension control at age 75+ years (45.2%; 95% CI 35.3, 55.1). Hypertension control increased with advancing age among non-Hispanic Black men and stayed stable among Chinese men. Among white and Hispanic men, the adjusted proportion with hypertension control decreased from 81.1% (95% CI 76.7, 85.5) and 70.9% (95% CI 64.1, 77.8), respectively, at age 45-64 years, to 75.4% (95% CI 69.6, 81.3) and 61.5% (95% CI 55.3, 70,8), respectively, at age 75+ years.

Conclusion:
Age and sex differences in hypertension control are present in these four race and ethnic groups but declines in hypertension control with advancing age appear more prominent among Hispanic women.
Abstract MP03: Sleep And Economic Status Are Linked To Daily Life Stress In African-born Blacks Living In America
Authors: Waldman Zoe C , Schenk Blayne R , Patterson Arielle C , Wentzel Annemarie , Duhuze Karera M. G , Hormenu Thomas , Mabundo Lilian S , DuBose Christopher W , Horlyck-Romanovsky Margrethe F , Whitesell Peter L , Sumner Anne E
Published: April 2022

Introduction:
Beyond the challenge of changing countries, cultures and continents, African-born Blacks living in the United States must cope with the stress of daily life. We assessed daily life stress and evaluated the influence of sleep as well as key socioeconomic and behavioral factors in 156 African-born Blacks (Age: 40±10y (mean±SD), BMI: 27.6±4.2 kg/m
2
, Male: 60%) who came to the United States as adults (≥age 18y).

Methods:
Daily life stress was assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS) (range 0 to 40). Stressed was defined as the PSS threshold at the upper quartile for the population distribution (≥16) and Non-Stressed as PSS<16. Sleep was assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (range 0 to 21). Poor Sleep Quality was defined by traditional criteria, specifically PSQI>5. Logistic regression was used to determine the odds of being Stressed because of: Poor Sleep Quality, low income (<40k/y), no health insurance, no college degree, no life partner, smoking, alcohol consumption, sedentary behavior and United States residency≥10y.

Results:
In the Stressed vs. Non-Stressed, PSS were: 21±4 vs. 9±4,
P
<0.001 and PSQI were: 6±3 vs. 4±3,
P
<0.001, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficient for the relationship between PSS and PSQI was: r=0.38,
P
<0.001. The odds of being Stressed were significant if income was low (OR 7.1,
P
<0.001), health insurance was absent (OR 4.7,
P
<0.001), the person had no life partner (OR 2.5,
P
=0.017), or was a smoker (OR 5.6,
P
=0.023). United States residence≥10y tended to decrease the odds of being in the Stressed category (OR 0.5,
P
=0.058). Of note, the group with United States residence≥10y had a higher rate of income≥40k than the group with US residence<10y (71% vs. 32%,
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:
Daily life stress in African-born Blacks is closely tied to poor sleep quality and exacerbated by low income, lack of health insurance and no life partner. The decreased stress associated with longer duration of United States residence may be due to better economic status.
Abstract MP06: Impact Of Social Determinants Of Health On Optimal Cardiovascular Health Among Asian American Subgroups
Authors: Le Austin , Zhu Alicia , Li Yuemeng , Singh Jaiveer , Dan Shozen , Palaniappan Latha , Srinivasan Malathi , Elfassy Tali , Valero Elizondo Javier , Yang Eugene
Published: April 2022

Background:
Limited disaggregated Asian subgroup data exists on the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) on optimal cardiovascular (CV) health.

Hypothesis:
Compared to non-Hispanic whites (NHW), Asian subgroups have a greater likelihood of optimal CV health, but this observation may be attenuated after controlling for SDOH.

Methods:
We analyzed results from the National Health Interview Survey (2013-2018), a nationally representative sample. Self-reported SDOH variables include demographics, food security, healthcare access, financial security, and neighborhood cohesion. We conducted stepwise, multivariable logistic regression, analyzing the association between race/ethnicity and CV risk profile score iteratively controlling for SDOH, based on the presence of CV risk factors (RF): diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, smoking, insufficient physical activity, and high cholesterol. CV risk profile sum was categorized as optimal (0-1 RF) or sub-optimal (≥ 2 RF).

Results:
Our study sample included 112,380 individuals [mean age 49.1 (SD 18.6)]: 92.7% NHW, 1.6% Asian Indian, 1.5% Chinese, 1.6% Filipino, and 2.6% other Asian. The final model, adjusted for all domains of SDOH, showed that odds for optimal CV health for Filipinos compared to NHW were not significant (OR= 1.06, 95% CI: 0.90, 1.24, p = 0.47). After adjusting for all SDOH, Chinese had the highest odds of optimal CV health compared to NHWs (OR=2.47, 95% CI: 2.08, 2.94, p < 0.001), while the greatest change was observed for Asian Indians [Model 1: OR 1.94 (95% CI 1.7, 2.22) versus Model 5: OR 1.7 (95% CI 1.47, 1.96)].

Conclusion:
Asian Indian, Chinese, and other Asian subgroups had a higher likelihood of optimal CV health compared to NHWs after controlling for SDOH but no significant differences were observed for Filipinos. This association was modestly attenuated only for Asian Indians after controlling for all SDOH. Future research should focus on the modifying effects that race/ethnicity may have on the association between SDOH and optimal CV health.
Monogenic and Polygenic Contributions to QTc Prolongation in the Population
Authors: Nauffal Victor , Morrill Valerie N. , Jurgens Sean J. , Choi Seung Hoan , Hall Amelia W. , Weng Lu-Chen , Halford Jennifer L. , Austin-Tse Christina , Haggerty Christopher M. , Harris Stephanie L. , Wong Eugene K. , Alonso Alvaro , Arking Dan E. , Benjamin Emelia J. , Boerwinkle Eric , Min Yuan-I , Correa Adolfo , Fornwalt Brandon K. , Heckbert Susan R. ,   National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) Consortium, Kooperberg Charles , Lin Henry J. , J.F. Loos Ruth , Rice Kenneth M. , Gupta Namrata , Blackwell Thomas W. , Mitchell Braxton D. , Morrison Alanna C. , Psaty Bruce M. , Post Wendy S. , Redline Susan , Rehm Heidi L. , Rich Stephen S. , Rotter Jerome I. , Soliman Elsayed Z. , Sotoodehnia Nona , Lunetta Kathryn L. , Ellinor Patrick T. , Lubitz Steven A. ,   for the TOPMed Investigators
Published: April 2022

Background:

Rare sequence variation in genes underlying cardiac repolarization and common polygenic variation influence QT interval duration. However, current clinical genetic testing of individuals with unexplained QT prolongation is restricted to examination of monogenic rare variants. The recent emergence of large-scale biorepositories with sequence data enables examination of the joint contribution of rare and common variations to the QT interval in the population.

Methods:

We performed a genome-wide association study of the QTc in 84 630 UK Biobank participants and created a polygenic risk score (PRS). Among 26 976 participants with whole-genome sequencing and ECG data in the TOPMed (Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine) program, we identified 160 carriers of putative pathogenic rare variants in 10 genes known to be associated with the QT interval. We examined QTc associations with the PRS and with rare variants in TOPMed.

Results:

Fifty-four independent loci were identified by genome-wide association study in the UK Biobank. Twenty-one loci were novel, of which 12 were replicated in TOPMed. The PRS composed of 1 110 494 common variants was significantly associated with the QTc in TOPMed (ΔQTc
/decile of PRS
=1.4 ms [95% CI, 1.3 to 1.5];
P
=1.1×10
-196
). Carriers of putative pathogenic rare variants had longer QTc than noncarriers (ΔQTc=10.9 ms [95% CI, 7.4 to 14.4]). Of individuals with QTc>480 ms, 23.7% carried either a monogenic rare variant or had a PRS in the top decile (3.4% monogenic, 21% top decile of PRS).

Conclusions:

QTc duration in the population is influenced by both rare variants in genes underlying cardiac repolarization and polygenic risk, with a sizeable contribution from polygenic risk. Comprehensive assessment of the genetic determinants of QTc prolongation includes incorporation of both polygenic and monogenic risk.
A Family and a Genome-Wide Polygenic Risk Score Are Independently Associated With Stroke in a Population-Based Study
Authors: Hämmerle Michelle , Forer Lukas , Schönherr Sebastian , Peters Annette , Grallert Harald , Kronenberg Florian , Gieger Christian , Lamina Claudia
Published: April 2022

Background:

Positive family history and genetic risk scores have been shown to independently capture those individuals with high risk for stroke. The aim of our study was to evaluate the amount of shared information between family history and genetic risk and to investigate their combined effect on the association with prevalent and incident stroke cases.

Methods:

We obtained a family risk score (FamRS), weighted for disease onset and family size as well as genome-wide polygenic risk score (PGS) including over 3.2 million single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the population-based prospective KORA F3 (Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg) study (n=3071) from Southern Germany. FamRS and PGS were evaluated separately and combined. The measures were once treated as continuous variables but also divided in the highest 20%, 10%, 5%, and 1% percentiles. Odds ratios via logistic regression and hazard ratios via Cox regression were estimated. A stroke event was defined as a hospitalization for stroke that was self-reported in a standardized interview by certified and supervised personnel.

Results:

The FamRS outperformed other simplified family measures such as affected parents or number of affected family members. FamRS and PGS were not correlated, and no individuals were observed with both very high FamRS and very high PGS (top 1% percentile). In a combined model, both FamRS and PGS were independently from each other associated with risk of stroke, also independent of other traditional risk factors (p [FamRS]=0.02, p [PGS]=0.005). Individuals in the top 1% of either FamRS or PGS were found to have >5-fold risk for stroke (odds ratios, 5.82 [95% CI, 2.08–14];
P
=0.0002). The results for incident stroke events showed the same trend but were not significant.

Conclusions:

Our study shows that a family risk score and PGS capture different information concerning individual stroke risk. Combining the risk measures FamRS and PGS increases predictive power, as demonstrated in a population-based study.
Neuroinflammation, Stroke, Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction, and Imaging Modalities
Authors: Candelario-Jalil Eduardo , Dijkhuizen Rick M. , Magnus Tim
Published: April 2022

Maintaining blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity is crucial for the homeostasis of the central nervous system. Structurally comprising the BBB, brain endothelial cells interact with pericytes, astrocytes, neurons, microglia, and perivascular macrophages in the neurovascular unit. Brain ischemia unleashes a profound neuroinflammatory response to remove the damaged tissue and prepare the brain for repair. However, the intense neuroinflammation occurring during the acute phase of stroke is associated with BBB breakdown, neuronal injury, and worse neurological outcomes. Here, we critically discuss the role of neuroinflammation in ischemic stroke pathology, focusing on the BBB and the interactions between central nervous system and peripheral immune responses. We highlight inflammation-driven injury mechanisms in stroke, including oxidative stress, increased MMP (matrix metalloproteinase) production, microglial activation, and infiltration of peripheral immune cells into the ischemic tissue. We provide an updated overview of imaging techniques for in vivo detection of BBB permeability, leukocyte infiltration, microglial activation, and upregulation of cell adhesion molecules following ischemic brain injury. We discuss the possibility of clinical implementation of imaging modalities to assess stroke-associated neuroinflammation with the potential to provide image-guided diagnosis and treatment. We summarize the results from several clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of anti-inflammatory interventions in stroke. Although convincing preclinical evidence suggests that neuroinflammation is a promising target for ischemic stroke, thus far, translating these results into the clinical setting has proved difficult. Due to the dual role of inflammation in the progression of ischemic damage, more research is needed to mechanistically understand when the neuroinflammatory response begins the transition from injury to repair. This could have important implications for ischemic stroke treatment by informing time- and context-specific therapeutic interventions.
How to Catch ’Em All? An Investigation of Personality and Gameplay Styles in Pokémon GO
Authors: Kapoor Hansika , Tagat Anirudh , Karandikar Sampada , Ticku Arunima
Published: April 2022

Pokémon GO is a 2016, augmented reality (AR) video game requiring players to move around in the real world and catch Pokémon to complete their collection. Examining different gameplay styles and user psychology in AR games can provide important insights for gameplay design. As multiple self- and other-beneficial strategies can be used to advance in the game, the present study investigated personality and behavioral correlates of four kinds of gameplay: independent, social-dependent, active, and invested. A multinational sample of current Pokémon GO players was recruited (N = 516, Mage = 28.83 years, SD = 9.25) and responded to measures of bright and dark personality traits, as well as a questionnaire on Pokémon GO gameplay behaviors. Results indicated that older players and those with multiple accounts were more likely to engage in most forms of gameplay; further, women were less likely to be active players. Among personality traits, psychopathy was a strong predictor of independent, social-dependent, and invested gameplay; agreeableness explained social-dependent strategies in line with social exchange theory; conscientiousness was associated with being a regular player; and fairness contributed to spending more money on the game (invested gameplay). Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.
La faculté de tester dans le Dell’origine e dell’uffizio del notariato de Michele Cusa
Authors: Dobigny-Reverso Anne
Published: April 2022

In French law, the current reform plans affecting the reserved portion of inheritance that must devolve upon the heirs (‘legitim’) has revived the debate about the freedom of disposing of one’s estate by will. The debate echoes some of the considerations in Michele Cusa’s (1771-1855) work Dell’origine e dell’uffizio del notariato. The author, who was a notary, was a supporter of the testator’s freedom. His argument consists in a dialogue during which jurists, philosophers and politicians from all over Europe hold the stage. The dialogue reflects the broad culture of a Piemontese notary at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Cusa believed that the freedom to dispose of one’s estate by will was particularly important, because it was the only way to meet real-life social and economic demands, and the complex relationships formed within a family. The testator’s freedom should nonetheless be regulated by statute, so that its excessive use by a father or husband can be restricted.
Forms of suretyship in the Peira in the light of the Basilica
Authors: Tantalos Marios
Published: April 2022

This paper attempts to present, analyze and comment on the complex cases of suretyship described in the Peira, an anonymously-compiled casebook consisting of the judgments and verdicts of Eustathios Rhomaios, a judge whose activity spanned the last quarter of the tenth and the first decades of the eleventh century. We focus on legal matters that arise from the chapters in the Peira concerning suretyship with particular reference to their connection with the Basilica, the Greek collection of translations and summaries of Justinian’s codification, completed during the time of Leo the Wise around the year 900. An analysis of the cases discussed in this paper enables us to see and better understand how the Byzantines interpreted and applied law in the eleventh century.
Foreign law without borders in the early vast America
Authors: Ballone Angela
Published: April 2022

This work addresses the circulation of legal literature from the Hispanic world into the British Atlantic during the 18th century and within the broader context of the Americas. It wants to break free from the dichotomy between British and Hispanic Atlantic by looking at the early Americas as a space where legal literature moved across borders. The case study analyzed in this work is that of the 17th century Spanish jurist Juan de Solórzano Pereira and its circulation in the British Atlantic. By analyzing the writings of a number of legal practitioners from the British Atlantic (such as James Otis, James Abercromby, and Adam Smith), I discuss the extent to which their knowledge of Solórzano’s work showed a transnational approach when discussing the relationship between the thirteen American colonies and their British mother-country. This study calls scholars’ attention to a number of networks of circulation for legal literature that possibly had more influence than has usually been acknowledged on the legal history of the United States of America. Ultimately, the article shows that much is left to discover about the practical, generative, aspects of legal history in an early modern scenario where Europe and the Americas need to be seen in more nuanced and balanced ways.
Rem de qua controversia est prohibemur in sacrum dedicare
Authors: Heukenkamp Elisabeth
Published: April 2022

Rem de qua controversia est prohibemur in sacrum dedicare, D. 44,6,3: Prohibition to dedicate the future matter in dispute into sacred sites. – The only surviving source of the prohibition of dedication is D. 44,6,3, an extraction of Gaius’ commentary concerning the Twelve Tables. It forbids the ‘in sacrum dedicare’ of a ‘rem de qua controversia est’ – both terms of unsecure meaning. This article aims to prove that the first term does not have the creation of a sacred thing in mind, but refers to the dedication of objects in temples as sacred sites, and that the second one relates especially to a future matter in dispute. The prohibition of dedication ensures the litis contestatio of the legis actio sacramento in rem and protects the pretender from a more powerful adversary, in particular a municipality, by according a legis actio sacramento in personam against the person having dedicated. Because the votive offerings to public temples were given into the arca of the temple, which was part of the aerarium. Thus, donations from the owner became res publicae.
Restoring trust and credit through innovative governance in 17th-century Amsterdam
Authors: den Hollander Maurits
Published: April 2022

This article explores the important connections between trust, credit, and innovative governance in seventeenth-century Amsterdam. It combines theoretical insights from both (legal) history and sociology to arrive at a broader understanding of the nature and functioning of trust between creditors and debtors. This article also moves beyond the existing literature, empirically testing the effect of innovative legal institutions on economic relations by means of case studies taken from the rich archives left behind by the Desolate Boedelskamer. Through the creation of systemic trust, innovative governance in the form of efficient insolvency legislation helped to restore good faith between creditors and debtors, strengthening both Amsterdam’s economy and civic community.
More Syriac Graffiti at the Southern Entrance to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Authors: Locatell Christian
Published: April 2022

This article presents nine Syriac graffiti which until now have been overlooked in the literature on the well-known inscriptions at the entrance to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. These additional graffiti attest to known and unknown Syriac pilgrims who visited the church. Some can be located within the Ottoman period while the date of others is less clear. Several of the graffiti are of particular interest. One attests to the visitation of a well-known East Syriac cleric, and another provides a clue to the architectural history of the closed eastern door at the southern entrance.
First report of the female Acanthogryllus asiaticus Gorochov, 1990 (Orthoptera: Gryllidae: Gryllinae) from India and updated description of two crickets of Gryllini
Authors: MEENA ASHOK KUMAR , SWAMINATHAN RAJAMANI , SWAMINATHAN TATIANA
Published: April 2022

The present paper reports the occurrence of female Acanthogryllus asiaticus Gorochov, 1990 from India and updates the description of Depressogryllus depressiceps (Ebner, 1935); besides, the description of Scapsipedus raychaudhurii Bhowmik, 1967, now classified into the genus Velarifictorus Randell, 1964 [Velarifictorus raychaudhurii (Bhowmik, 1967)] has been revised. Suitable plates with close-up details of the genitalia have been presented in support of the descriptions.
A redescription of the Mediterranean endemic cladoceran Daphnia chevreuxi Richard, 1896 (Cladocera: Daphniidae)
Authors: KOTOV ALEXEY A. , GARIBIAN PETR G. , NERETINA ANNA N. , MARRONE FEDERICO
Published: April 2022

The Mediterranean area is a biodiversity and endemism hotspot. “Circum-Mediterranean” taxa are known among different hydrobionts, including the water fleas. Some Mediterranean endemic cladoceran taxa have been described or redescribed according to modern taxonomical standards, but accurate drawings are missing for others. Here we redescribe the Mediterranean endemic Daphnia chevreuxi Richard, 1896 (Crustacea: Cladocera) and briefly review available data on its distribution and ecology. The species is confirmed to be a typical inhabitant of the temporary ponds of the central Mediterranean area, whereas its populations from the eastern Balkans and the Middle East should be studied in order to check for their actual identity. We conclude that the Mediterranean area is an example of a well-studied region as Cladocera are concerned, but the study of other regions is necessary in order to understand better the cladoceran diversity and distribution patterns in Eurasia.
On Objective Identification of Atmospheric Fronts and Frontal Precipitation in Reanalysis Datasets
Authors: Soster Frederick , Parfitt Rhys
Published: April 2022

Reanalysis datasets are frequently used in the study of atmospheric variability owing to their length of record and gridded global coverage. In the midlatitudes, much of the day-to-day atmospheric variability is associated with atmospheric fronts. These fronts are also responsible for the majority of precipitation in the midlatitudes, and are often associated with extreme weather, flooding, and wildfire activity. As such, it is important that identification of fronts and their associated rainfall remains as consistent as possible between studies. Nevertheless, it is often the case that only one reanalysis dataset and only one objective diagnostic for the detection of atmospheric fronts is used. By applying two different frontal identification methods across the shared time period of eight reanalysis datasets (1980–2001), it is found that the individual identification of fronts and frontal precipitation is significantly affected by both the choice of identification method and dataset. This is shown to subsequently impact the climatologies of both frontal frequency and frontal precipitation globally with significant regional differences as well. For example, for one diagnostic, the absolute multireanalysis range in the global mean frontal frequency and the proportion of precipitation attributed to atmospheric fronts are 12% and 69%, respectively. A percentage reduction of 77% and 81%, respectively, in these absolute multireanalysis ranges occurs, however, upon regridding all datasets to the same coarser grid. Therefore, these findings have important implications for any study on precipitation variability and not just those that consider atmospheric fronts.
Influence of Covid-19 Restrictions on Urban Violence
Authors: Lalchandani Priti , Strong Bethany L. , Harfouche Melike N. , Diaz Jose J. , Scalea Thomas M.
Published: April 2022

We investigated whether the COVID-19 pandemic affected rates of interpersonal violence (IV). A retrospective study was performed using city-wide crime data and the trauma registry at one high-volume trauma center pre-pandemic [PP] (March-October 2019) and during the pandemic [PA] (March-October 2020). The proportion of trauma admissions attributable to IV remained unchanged from PP to PA, but IV increased as a proportion of overall crime (34% to 41%, p<0.001). Assaults decreased, but there was a proportionate increase in penetrating trauma which was mostly attributable to firearms. Despite a reduction in admissions due to IV in the first 4 months of the pandemic, the rates of violence subsequently exceeded that of the same months in 2019. The cause of the observed increase of IV is multi-factorial. Future studies aimed at identifying the root causes are essential to mitigate violence during this ongoing health crisis.
Transnational migrant labor, split labor markets, and workers’ boundary-making practices in a Chinese state-sponsored workplace in Ecuador
Authors: Peng Rui Jie
Published: April 2022

Existing research on transnationalization of labor documents split labor markets between less-skilled (im)migrant workers and native workers in the host countries. But there is little research on how labor relations take shape when relatively skilled workers migrate from more developed countries to work temporarily in less-developed countries in the Global South. Based on ethnographic research on a Chinese state-sponsored construction project in Ecuador, this article explicates an understudied case. Although the temporary migrant Chinese workers come from a more developed country and hold higher status jobs, they are compensated at a lower rate and have fewer labor rights compared to their lower status Ecuadorian counterparts. By comparatively examining workers’ everyday interactions and boundary-making practices, this study develops a twofold argument. First, the development strategies and political interests of the home and host states interact to shape divergent recruitment processes and labor policies, which gives rise to disparate working conditions and labor rights between migrant and native workers. Second, the foreign migrant and native workers cope with labor disparities by invoking national stereotypes to draw social boundaries, which exacerbates their labor market splits. This analysis has theoretical implications for understanding labor relations under transnational state capitalism, workers’ strategies against labor control, and the future of labor solidarity in the Global South.
Lorenz Interpolation: A Method for Estimating Income Inequality from Grouped Income Data
Authors: Carr Andrew
Published: April 2022

To understand how income inequality affects individuals and communities, researchers must have accurate measures of income inequality at lower geographic levels, such as counties, school districts, and census tracts. Studies of income inequality, however, are constrained by the tabular format in which censuses publish income data. In this article, the author proposes a new method, Lorenz interpolation, for estimating income inequality from binned income data. Using public microsample data from the American Community Survey (ACS), the author shows that Lorenz interpolation produces more accurate and reliable income inequality estimates than do alternative estimation methods. Then, using restricted ACS income data obtained through a Federal Statistical Research Data Center, the author evaluates the accuracy of Lorenz interpolation at the census tract and school district levels. Lorenz interpolation produces reliable school district–level estimates, but the method produces less reliable estimates for some income inequality measures at the tract level. These findings indicate that researchers should refrain from estimating tract-level income inequality measures from tabular data. They also show that aggregating tract income distributions to higher geographic levels can produce valid estimates of income inequality.
Optomechanical system design under road vibration conditions
Authors: Sag Doga Can , Erol Haluk , Gursoy Irmak , Kayasal Ugur
Published: April 2022

Optomechanical systems used in vehicles or moving platforms are exposed to vibration loads from road effects. This study investigated the dynamic behavior of an optomechanical system exposed to random vibrations. Random vibration analysis and laboratory tests of the system were performed with the MIL-STD-810 test method standard. The relative displacements of two lenses in the optomechanical system were obtained under vibration loads by using the finite element (FE) method. The displacements were examined by tests. The obtained relative displacements of the lenses were used as input to the optical analysis and the laser spot position was obtained. The obtained spot positions were evaluated comparatively with the tests. The optical analysis results were consistent with the tests. Using the verified FE and optical models, structural modifications were made in the basic design. Five different design changes were examined. The natural frequencies and the mass of the entire system and the relative displacements of the lenses were obtained for comparative evaluation. Finally, the optimum design minimally affected by vibration loads was achieved.