bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Representation of Color Spaces and Its Role in Communication Systems
Authors: Al-saleem Riyadh M. , Al-Hilali Baraa M. , Abboud Izz K.
Published: May 2020

In this research, the color system was analyzed according to the International Lighting Commission (CIE) standard by studying the theoretical aspect of the general color system according to the latest communication theories of the visual image supported by mathematical equations and illustrations supporting the relevant hypotheses and then a comparison of evolution. There is an enormous use in color spaces and systems according to their own use, where the use of colors has become in various areas including television systems; computer systems; industry and product colors; printing of all kinds of black and white and color; paint colors for buildings, houses, and cities; and many other color-related uses. The development of color spaces and systems from 1931 to the present day has expanded a lot, and this led to the emergence of new areas of color systems characterized by accuracy and beauty and became the color of the subcolors according to the desire of the customer and the quality of use. The development of color systems has an impact on visual communication such as television broadcasting systems, medical image processing, and video signal processing, as well as in the field of computer such as graphic equipment and printing.
E-Cigarette- and Vaping-Related Lung Injury (EVALI) at a Regional Hospital System in South Carolina
Authors: Temas Daniel , Meyer Armin
Published: May 2020

We report on four cases of severe lung injury and respiratory failure attributed to E-cigarette use that presented between July and August, 2019. The patients described were relatively healthy without clinically significant history of lung disease. Each developed severe acute respiratory distress shortly following E-cigarette use. In each case, the patients initially presented with considerable hypoxia and infectious-appearing pattern with elevated inflammatory markers on laboratory values. Imaging studies demonstrated a consistent pattern of widespread bilateral interstitial infiltrates with a medial distribution. All but one of the cases involved the admitted use of THC oil in E-cigarettes. There was rapid progression of illness requiring increased supplemental oxygen and in two cases, requiring urgent intubation and mechanical ventilation. No infectious organism was isolated in any case, and patients improved rapidly with the initiation of steroids. These are among the first cases reported in South Carolina and are consistent with similar cases that have been reported around the country.
Hyers–Ulam Stability for Quantum Equations of Euler Type
Authors: Anderson Douglas R. , Onitsuka Masakazu
Published: May 2020

Many applications using discrete dynamics employ either q-difference equations or h-difference equations. In this work, we introduce and study the Hyers–Ulam stability (HUS) of a quantum (q-difference) equation of Euler type. In particular, we show a direct connection between quantum equations of Euler type and h-difference equations of constant step size h with constant coefficients and an arbitrary integer order. For equation orders greater than two, the h-difference results extend first-order and second-order results found in the literature, and the Euler-type q-difference results are completely novel for any order. In many cases, the best HUS constant is found.
A Macro-Meso Correlation Model for Numerical Simulation of CFRP Tensile Notched Strength
Authors: Chen Fang , Yao Weixing , Jiang Wen
Published: May 2020

In this paper, the tensile mechanical behavior of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plates (CFRP) with central open-holes was studied by experimental and simulation ways. A correlation model was built by macromechanical analysis and mesodamage analysis to form a progressive analysis architecture. Composite laminates were disassembled into two kinds: Representative Volume Element (RVE), which were 3D intralayer orthotropic, and the 2D interlayer cohesive element. The macromechanical analysis built connections between external loading cases and RVE stress distribution filed. The mesodamage analysis aimed to determine multimode damage initiation and evolution inside RVE. By comparing simulation results with experimental data, the prediction accuracy on failure mode, ultimate load, and fracture morphology were good enough to show the effectiveness and rationality of this new model. In addition, this model’s applicability to different material and geometrical parameters was also verified by simulating the experiment results in the literature.
Amide Proton Transfer‐Weighted (APTw) Imaging of Intracranial Infection in Children: Initial Experience and Comparison with Gadolinium‐Enhanced T1‐Weighted Imaging
Authors: Zhang Hong , Tang Xiaolu , Lv Yanqiu , Hu Di , Sun Jihang , Wang Yan , Zhou Jinyuan , Peng Yun
Published: May 2020

Purpose. To evaluate the performance of amide proton transfer‐weighted (APTw) imaging against the reference standard of gadolinium‐enhanced T1‐weighted imaging (Gd‐T1w) in children with intracranial infection. Materials and Methods. Twenty‐eight pediatric patients (15 males and 13 females; age range 1‐163 months) with intracranial infection were recruited in this study. 2D APTw imaging and conventional MR sequences were conducted using a 3 T MRI scanner. Kappa (κ) statistics and the McNemar test were performed to determine whether the hyperintensity on APTw was related to the enhancement on Gd‐T1w. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of APTw imaging to predict lesion enhancement were calculated. Result. In twelve patients with brain abscesses, the enhancing rim of the abscesses on the Gd‐T1w images was consistently hyperintense on the APTw images. In eight patients with viral encephalitis, three showed slight spotted gadolinium enhancement, while the APTw image also showed a slight spotted high signal. Five of these patients showed no enhancement on Gd‐T1w and isointensity on the APTw image. In eleven patients with meningitis, increased APTw signal intensities were clearly visible in gadolinium‐enhancing meninges. Sixty infectious lesions (71%) showed enhancement on Gd‐T1w images. The sensitivity and specificity of APTw were 93.3% (56/60) and 91.7% (22/24). APTw demonstrated excellent agreement (κ = 0.83) with Gd‐T1w, with no significant difference (P = 0.69) in detection of infectious lesions. Conclusions. These initial data show that APTw MRI is a noninvasive technique for the detection and characterization of intracranial infectious lesions. APTw MRI enabled similar detection of infectious lesions to Gd‐T1w and may provide an injection‐free means of evaluation of intracranial infection.
Progress in the Research of the Toxicity Effect Mechanisms of Heavy Metals on Freshwater Organisms and Their Water Quality Criteria in China
Authors: Hong Ya-jun , Liao Wei , Yan Zhen-fei , Bai Ying-chen , Feng Cheng-lian , Xu Zu-xin , Xu Da-yong
Published: May 2020

Water quality criteria are the scientific basis for formulating water quality standards and environmental management practices. Due to the development of urbanization and industrialization, the problem of heavy metal pollution has become a serious environmental problem. Heavy metals not only have major impacts on aquatic organisms, but also seriously threaten human health. However, the current environmental criteria refer to the maximum value limitations of environmental factors in environmental media where harmful or detrimental effects are not produced on specific protected objects. This study reviewed the sources, hazard levels, toxic effect mechanisms, and the current research status of China’s water quality criteria for heavy metal pollutants. In addition, the focus and direction of future research on the toxic effects of heavy metal on aquatic organisms and the necessary criteria changes were discussed. The present study would provide an important theoretical basis for the future research of water quality criteria and risk assessment of heavy metal pollutants.
Debate of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention versus Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in a Multimorbidity Patient with Complex Coronary Lesions
Authors: Mitsiadis Sotirios , Miaris Nikolaos , Dimopoulos Antonios , Theodosis-Georgilas Anastasios , Tsiamis Spyridon , Patsourakos Nikolaos , Papakonstantinou Nikolaos , Pisimisis Evangelos
Published: May 2020

Background. While complete revascularization in coronary artery disease is of high priority, the method of implementation in patients with complex coronary lesions and multiple comorbidities is not directed by published guidelines. Case Presentation. A 53-year-old female with a chronic total occlusion of the right coronary artery and a bifurcation lesion of the left anterior descending artery and the first diagonal branch, presented with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction. Her past medical history concerned thymectomy and prior chest radiation for thymoma, myasthenia gravis, peripheral artery disease, and cervical cancer treated with surgery and radiation. Although SYNTAX score II favored surgical revascularization, the interventional pathway was finally successfully followed. However, it was complicated with vessel perforation and tamponade managed with pericardiocentesis. Conclusion. Comorbidities are not all involved in common risk models and require individualization until more evidence comes to light.
Dough-Stage Maize (Zea mays L.) Ear Recognition Based on Multiscale Hierarchical Features and Multifeature Fusion
Authors: Jia Honglei , Qu Minghao , Wang Gang , Walsh Michael J. , Yao Jurong , Guo Hui , Liu Huili
Published: May 2020

Crop-related object recognition is of great importance in realizing intelligent agricultural machinery. Maize (Zea mays. L.) ear recognition could be a representative of crop-related object recognition, which is a critical technological premise for realizing automatic maize ear picking and maize yield prediction. In order to recognize maize ears in dough stage, this study combined deep learning and image processing, which have advantages of feature extraction and hardware flexibility, respectively. LabelImage was applied to mark and label maize plants, based on the deep learning framework TensorFlow, and this study developed multiscale hierarchical feature extraction together with quadruple-expanded convolutional kernels. To recognize the whole maize plant, 1250 images were acquired for training the recognition model, and its performance in a test set showed that the recognition accuracy was 99.47%. Subsequently, multifeatures of maize ear were determined, and the optimum binary threshold was obtained by fitting Gaussian distribution in the subblock image. Consequently, the maize ear was recognized by morphological process which was conducted by Python and OpenCV. Experiment was conducted in August 2018, and 10800 images were acquired for testing this algorithm. Experimental results showed that the average recognition accuracy was 97.02% and time consumption was 0.39 s for each image, which could meet a forward speed of 4.61 km/h for combine harvesters.
The Usefulness of an Endoscopic OverStitch Suturing System for Managing Anastomotic Dehiscence – A Case Report
Authors: Patil Gaurav , Iyer Arun , Dalal Ankit , Maydeo Amit
Published: May 2020

Anastomotic dehiscence (AD) after colorectal surgery contributes to poor outcomes resulting in multiple postoperative complications. Conventional management would be a repeat laparotomy and tension suturing. But owing to the unhealthy vicinities near the suture lines, there is a significant risk of technical failure which further increases postoperative morbidity and mortality. A 60-year-old male, with a history of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and previous percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, underwent sigmoid colectomy with colorectal anastomosis for complicated sigmoid diverticulitis. He then developed anastomotic site leak for which an ileostomy was done. Prior to the ileostomy revision, he was referred for colonoscopic evaluation which showed the persistence of a partial AD. We decided to close the defect endoscopically with the Apollo OverStitch device. Initial tissue preparation was done by creating a surgical surface using argon plasma coagulation at the perimeter of the leak site. A double channel therapeutic endoscope with the OverStitch assembly was passed to take full-thickness running sutures across the rent to facilitate full closure. The area examined showed good suture approximation and complete closure. The procedure was successful with no immediate or delayed postprocedural complications. Repeat endoscopic evaluation at about two weeks showed well-approximated edges with intact suture lines, and there was complete resolution of the leak. The patient subsequently underwent revision surgery after a month. The patient is under close follow-up and doing well. The Apollo OverStitch device has certainly opened new avenues in flexible endoscopic surgery which need further exploratory studies to add to existing promising results.
Application of Disease Etiology and Natural History to Prevention in Primary Health Care: A Discourse
Authors: White Franklin
Published: May 2020

The principles of etiology and natural history of disease are essential to recognizing opportunities for prevention across the illness spectrum. They have a bearing on how illness is experienced, how differently it can be perceived at the time of first contact with the health system, and how it may appear at later stages. Opportunities for prevention arise at every stage in the process, and three main levels are described: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Prevention strategies include health promotion focused on determinants, clinical prevention to reduce modifiable risk factors, case finding, screening, and addressing functional outcomes relevant to quality of life; the importance of preventing errors is also recognized. The distinction between incidence effects and treatment effects of prevention is explored. This review also examines the differing roles of language in health science and public communication, aspects of disease classification, related issues in patient-centered care, the prevention paradox, and integrated models of disease prevention.
ГЕНДЕРНІ АСПЕКТИ КАРДІОПРОТЕКТОРНОЇ ЕФЕКТИВНОСТІ МЕЛАТОНІНУ ПРИ РОЗВИТКУ АДРЕНАЛІНІНДУКОВАНОГО НЕКРОЗУ МІОКАРДА НА ТЛІ ПЕРМАНЕНТНОГО ОСВІТЛЕННЯ
Authors: Bezkorovaina H. O. , Klishch I. M. , Khara M. R.
Published: May 2020

Вступ. Світловий десинхроноз є важливим фактором ризику розвитку ішемічної хвороби серця, яка частіше виникає в чоловіків. Ушкодження міокарда за умов стресу, викликаного порушенням режиму освітлення (його надлишком), призводить до значного дефіциту ендогенного мелатоніну, який має антиоксидантні властивості. Це дозволяє прогнозувати зменшення негативного впливу стресу або катехоламінів на серце за умов перманентного освітлення при застосуванні екзогенного мелатоніну. На сьогодні недостатньо вивчено питання гендерної відмінності кардіопротекторних ефектів мелатоніну при порушенні активності пінеальної залози.

Мета дослідження – вивчити кардіопротекторну ефективність екзогенного мелатоніну при розвитку некрозу міокарда на тлі перманентного освітлення залежно від статі.

Методи дослідження. У міокарді шлуночків самців і самиць щурів визначали відсоток некротизованих кардіоміоцитів, активність пероксидного окиснення ліпідів та антиоксидантної системи при ушкодженні адреналіном. Некроз міокарда викликали шляхом введення адреналіну (0,5 мг/кг, внутрішньом’язово) на тлі перманентного освітлення (10 днів освітлення 500 люкс, 24 год/добу). Групу контролю становили тварини, які перебували в умовах зміни циклів день/ніч (12 год освітлення 500 люкс/12 год освітлення 0,5–1,0 люкс). Мелатонін (5 мг/кг, інтраперитонеально) з метою корекції вводили за 1 год до ін’єкції адреналіну.

Результати й обговорення. При застосуванні мелатоніну розвиток некрозу міокарда характеризувався меншим відсотком некротизованих кардіоміоцитів, нижчою, ніж без корекції, активацією пероксидного окиснення ліпідів, більшою активністю супероксиддисмутази і глутатіонпероксидази. Про кращу збалансованість прооксидантно-антиоксидантних процесів свідчило вище, ніж без корекції, значення антиоксидантно-прооксидантного індексу, особливо в самиць. Ця закономірність демонструвала позитивний вплив екзогенного мелатоніну та непрямо підтверджувала його дефіцит за умов перманентного освітлення.

Висновок. Застосування екзогенного мелатоніну для корекції його дефіциту при перманентному освітленні має позитивний вплив на розвиток адреналініндукованого некрозу міокарда, що підтверджується нижчою, ніж без такої корекції, активацією пероксидного окиснення ліпідів, менш вираженою депресією системи антиоксидантів, меншим відсотком некротизованих кардіоміоцитів. Самиці щурів більш чутливі до позитивного впливу екзогенного мелатоніну порівняно із самцями.
ВИЗНАЧЕННЯ АРБУТИНУ В ГРУШІ ЗВИЧАЙНОЇ ЛИСТІ СОРТІВ ЛИМОНКА, ЛІСОВА КРАСУНЯ ТА НОЯБРСЬКА
Authors: Novosel О. М. , Kyslychenko V. S. , Fedosov А. І. , Andriukova L. М. , Voloshyna А. А.
Published: May 2020

Вступ. Цистит – одна з доволі частих нозологічних форм інфекційно-запальних захворювань сечовивідних шляхів. Розповсюдженість гострого циститу в Україні становить 314 на 100 тис. населення, хронічного циститу – 135 на 100 тис. населення. Для лікування даного захворювання успішно використовують лікарську рослинну сировину, що містить арбутин і гідрохінон, зокрема сировину груші звичайної.

Мета дослідження – виявити і визначити кількісний вміст арбутину в груші звичайної листі сортів Лимонка, Лісова красуня та Ноябрська.

Методи дослідження. Об’єктом дослідження було груші звичайної листя сортів Лимонка, Лісова красуня та Ноябрська. Виявлення арбутину проводили за допомогою хімічних реакцій і хроматографії в тонкому шарі сорбенту. Його кількісний вміст визначали спектрофотометричним методом при довжині хвилі 455 нм за методикою Державної Фармакопеї України.

Результати й обговорення. У результаті проведення хімічних реакцій і хроматографічного аналізу в груші звичайної листі сортів, які вивчали, встановлено наявність арбутину. Вміст арбутину, який було визначено спектрофотометричним методом, у груші звичайної листі сортів Лимонка, Лісова красуня та Ноябрська становив 1,07, 3,32 і 3,01 % відповідно.

Висновки. У груші звичайної листі сортів Лимонка, Лісова красуня та Ноябрська встановлено наявність і визначено вміст арбутину, який становив 1,07, 3,32 та 3,01 % відповідно. Одержані експериментальні дані буде використано при стандартизації груші звичайної листя, розробці методів контролю якості на досліджувану сировину, а також одержанні фармакологічно активних субстанцій на її основі.
Implicações do tempo em filas na capacidade de carga e na satisfação dos visitantes de parques temáticos
Authors: Machado Ana Carolina Padua , Lobo Heros Augusto Santos
Published: May 2020

Os parques temáticos são estruturas de lazer criadas a partir do uso da tecnologia e baseada em temas específicos, desenvolvidas para atrair grandes contingentes de pessoas em um espaço relativamente restrito. São compostos por serviços aos visitantes como estacionamento e bilheteria, além de sua finalidade maior, que são suas atrações. A lógica de funcionamento destes parques leva à formação de filas em diversos momentos da visitação. Neste contexto, a presente pesquisa teve por objetivo desenvolver um panorama sobre a percepção dos visitantes dos parques temáticos acerca do tempo de espera nas filas dos principais serviços oferecidos nestes estabelecimentos. Para tanto, foram aplicados questionários pré-estruturados para preenchimento online, com pessoas que já frequentaram parques temáticos. Os dados coletados foram descritos com apoio estatístico – regressão linear e matriz de correlação de similaridade – bem como analisados e relacionados com conceitos de satisfação na visitação, capacidade de carga social e qualidade da experiência. Os resultados demonstraram que os tempos de espera nas filas não afetaram de forma significativa a percepção dos respondentes, uma vez que as avaliações no questionário foram em sua maioria positivas. Assim, concluise que o tempo de espera em filas não afeta negativamente a percepção de lotação e a capacidade de carga social dos parques temáticos na percepção dos visitantes brasileiros.

Palavras-chave: Capacidade de carga social; Percepção de lotação; Turismo de experiência.
Relação entre a dignidade da pessoa com deficiência e o valor de embriões humanos
Authors: Sanches Mário Antônio , Silva Daiane Priscila Simão , Oliveira Houda Izabela de
Published: May 2020

Nas últimas décadas, foi notória a ampliação da oferta de testes genéticos de diagnóstico pré-natal, inclusive para fins de interrupção de gravidez ou descarte de embriões na reprodução assistida. Paralelamente, surgiram muitos movimentos e organizações no sentido de afirmar a dignidade das pessoas com deficiência e seu direito a uma vida plenamente incluída na sociedade. Este artigo pretende analisar esses dois movimentos e destacar suas contradições. Questionamos se é possível dissociar as práticas de eliminação de embriões e fetos anômalos dos pressupostos eugênicos do início do século XX, bem como a coerência dessas práticas. A reflexão é conduzida considerando que, claramente, estamos assistindo a movimentos que apontam para posições opostas e que a discussão precisa ser ampliada de forma coerente. Os movimentos em prol das pessoas com deficiência já alcançaram muitos avanços legislativos e políticos nas últimas décadas, contudo ainda têm muito a enfrentar em relação ao modelo médico ou determinista de deficiência, construído e reforçado socialmente apontando a deficiência como um problema a ser eliminado. O ápice desse discurso se dá na legitimidade conferida aos testes genéticos como forma de superação do problema das deficiências através da eliminação do próprio “deficiente”.
Making doctors available for rural India:
Authors: Subrahmanian Prasanth , Rai Shivangi , Bhushan Himanshu
Published: May 2020

In the backdrop of acute shortage of allopathic doctors in rural India, this paper looks at the interplay and tension between central and state regulatory measures aimed at improving the availability and retention of allopathic doctors in the rural areas, within the overarching framework of centre-state relations and division of legislative powers between them, with respect to regulation of medical education. While the Central Government has introduced certain provisions in the central law to promote availability of doctors in rural areas, some States have implemented provisions with the same objective, that go beyond the stipulations of the Central Act. Several such measures taken by state governments; be it reservation of post graduate seats for doctors serving in government rural institutions or developing cadre of medical practitioners for rural area under certain conditionalities; have been challenged in courts and held to be violative of the central legislation which inter alia, regulates standards of medical education and registration of doctors. The measures introduced by the state governments for increasing availability of doctors in rural areas, even though struck down as invalid, were intended as instruments of equity and social justice, with far reaching implications for improving availability of health care services in underserved areas. Unless the Medical Council of India Act is amended or the subject matter of medical education is moved from Union list to State list, state interventions are likely to continue to be struck down if they are found to be affecting the standards of medical education.
(In)capacidade civil da pessoa com doença de Alzheimer:
Authors: Monteiro Luzia Cristina Antoniossi , Alexandre Tiago da Silva , Silva Nayara Mendes
Published: May 2020

Com o envelhecimento populacional, tendem a aumentar os problemas de saúde e, consequentemente, as demandas jurídicas nessa área. A partir do Estatuto da Pessoa com Deficiência, que dissocia a capacidade da deficiência, torna-se emblemática a interdição da pessoa com doença de Alzheimer. Nesse sentido, este artigo objetiva proporcionar subsídios jurídicos à tomada de decisão dos profissionais de saúde. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, desenvolvido por meio da análise documental do Código Civil e do Estatuto da Pessoa com  Deficiência, bem como da revisão narrativa para identificar reflexões sobre as referidas legislações e a doença de Alzheimer. Observam-se avanços legais na busca pela equidade entre os seres humanos, mas, no caso de uma doença progressiva, irreversível e insidiosa como o Alzheimer, percebe-se a necessidade de atuação das equipes de saúde e jurídicas na proteção dos direitos e da dignidade da pessoa humana por meio da curatela.
Complex and Novel Arrhythmias Precede Stillbirth in Fetuses With De Novo Long QT Syndrome
Authors: Strand Sarah , Strasburger Janette F. , Cuneo Bettina F. , Wakai Ronald T.
Published: May 2020

Background:

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a leading cause of sudden cardiac death in early life and has been implicated in ≈10% of sudden infant deaths and unexplained stillbirths. The purpose of our study was to use fetal magnetocardiography to characterize the electrophysiology and rhythm phenotypes of fetuses with de novo and inherited LQTS variants and identify risk factors for sudden death before birth.

Methods:

We reviewed the fetal magnetocardiography database from the University of Wisconsin Biomagnetism Laboratory for fetuses with confirmed LQTS. We assessed waveform intervals, heart rate, and rhythm, including the signature LQTS rhythms: functional 2° atrioventricular block, T-wave alternans, and torsade de pointes (TdP).

Results:

Thirty-nine fetuses had pathogenic variants in LQTS genes: 27 carried the family variant, 11 had de novo variants, and 1 was indeterminate. De novo variants, especially de novo SCN5A variants, were strongly associated with a severe rhythm phenotype and perinatal death: 9 (82%) showed signature LQTS rhythms, 6 (55%) showed TdP, 5 (45%) were stillborn, and 1 (9%) died in infancy. Those that died exhibited novel fetal rhythms, including atrioventricular block with 3:1 conduction ratio, QRS alternans in 2:1 atrioventricular block, long-cycle length TdP, and slow monomorphic ventricular tachycardia. Premature ventricular contractions were also strongly associated with TdP and perinatal death. Fetuses with familial variants showed a lower incidence of signature LQTS rhythm (6/27=22%), including TdP (3/27=11%). All were live born.

Conclusions:

The malignancy of de novo LQTS variants was remarkably high and demonstrate that these mutations are a significant cause of stillbirth. Their ability to manifest rhythms not known to be associated with LQTS increases the difficulty of echocardiographic diagnosis and decreases the likelihood that a resultant fetal loss is attributed to LQTS.

Registration:

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT03047161.
Phosphodiesterase 9a Inhibition in Mouse Models of Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Methawasin Mei , Strom Joshua , Borkowski Tomasz , Hourani Zaynab , Runyan Ray , Smith John E. , Granzier Henk
Published: May 2020

Background:

Low myocardial cGMP-PKG (cyclic guanosine monophosphate-protein kinase G) activity has been associated with increased cardiomyocyte diastolic stiffness in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate is mainly hydrolyzed by PDE (phosphodiesterases) 5a and 9a. Importantly, PDE9a expression has been reported to be upregulated in human heart failure with preserved ejection fraction myocardium and chronic administration of a PDE9a inhibitor reverses preestablished cardiac hypertrophy and systolic dysfunction in mice subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC). We hypothesized that inhibiting PDE9a activity ameliorates diastolic dysfunction.

Methods:

To examine the effect of chronic PDE9a inhibition, 2 diastolic dysfunction mouse models were studied: (1) TAC-deoxycorticosterone acetate and (2)
Lepr

db/db

. PDE9a inhibitor (5 and 8 mg/kg per day) was administered to the mice via subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipumps for 28 days. The effect of acute PDE9a inhibition was investigated in intact cardiomyocytes isolated from TAC-deoxycorticosterone acetate mice. Atrial natriuretic peptide together with PDE9a inhibitor were administered to the isolated intact cardiomyocytes through the cell perfusate.

Results:

For acute inhibition, no cellular stiffness reduction was found, whereas chronic PDE9a inhibition resulted in reduced left ventricular chamber stiffness in TAC-deoxycorticosterone acetate, but not in
Lepr

db/db

mice. Passive cardiomyocyte stiffness was reduced by chronic PDE9a inhibition, with no differences in myocardial fibrosis or cardiac morphometry. PDE9a inhibition increased the ventricular-arterial coupling ratio, reflecting impaired systolic function.

Conclusions:

Chronic PDE9a inhibition lowers left ventricular chamber stiffness in TAC-deoxycorticosterone acetate mice. However, the usefulness of PDE9a inhibition to treat high-diastolic stiffness may be limited as the required PDE9a inhibitor dose also impairs systolic function, observed as a decline in ventricular-arterial coordination, in this model.
Comorbid Conditions and Health-Related Quality of Life in Ambulatory Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Cascino Thomas M. , Kittleson Michelle M. , Lala Anuradha , Stehlik Josef , Palardy Maryse , Pamboukian Salpy V. , Ewald Gregory A. , Mountis Maria M. , Horstmanshof Douglas A. , Robinson Shawn W. , Shah Palak , Jorde Ulrich P. , McLean Rhondalyn C. , Richards Blair , Khalatbari Shokoufeh , Spino Cathie , Taddei-Peters Wendy C. , Grady Kathleen L. , Mann Douglas L. , Stevenson Lynne W. , Stewart Garrick C. , Aaronson Keith D. ,   for the REVIVAL Investigators
Published: May 2020

Background:

Patients with heart failure (HF) often have multiple chronic conditions that may impact health-related quality of life (HRQOL) despite HF therapy. We sought to determine the association between noncardiac comorbidities and HRQOL in ambulatory patients with advanced HF.

Methods:

Baseline data from 373 subjects in REVIVAL (Registry Evaluation of Vital Information for Ventricular Assist Devices in Ambulatory Life) were analyzed using multivariable general linear models to evaluate the relationship between comorbidities and HRQOL (EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale, EQ-5D-3L Index Score, and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire). The primary independent variables were a comorbidity index (sum of 14 noncardiac conditions), a residual comorbidity index (without depression), and depression alone. The median (25th to 75th percentile) number of comorbidities was 3 (2–4).

Results:

Increasing comorbidity burden was associated with a reduction in generic (EQ-5D Index,
P
=0.005) and HF-specific (Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire,
P
=0.001) HRQOL. The residual comorbidity index was not associated with HRQOL when depression included in the model independently, while depression was associated with HRQOL across all measures. Participants with depression (versus without) scored on average 13 points (95% CI, 8–17) lower on the EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale, 0.15 points (95% CI, 0.12–0.18) lower on the EQ-5D Index, and 24.9 points (95% CI, 21.2–28.5) lower on the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire overall summary score.

Conclusions:

While noncardiac comorbidities were prevalent in ambulatory advanced HF patients, only depression was associated with decreased generic and HF-specific HRQOL. Other than depression, the presence of noncardiac comorbidities should not impact expected gains in HRQOL following ventricular assist device implantation, provided the conditions are not a contraindication to implant.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01369407.
Deep Vein Thrombosis in Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19 in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhang Li , Feng Xiaokai , Zhang Danqing , Jiang Chunguo , Mei Heng , Wang Jing , Zhang Cuihong , Li Hong , Xia Xiaoling , Kong Shuangshuang , Liao Jia , Jia Huijun , Pang Xueqin , Song Yue , Tian Ying , Wang Bin , Wu Chun , Yuan Hongliang , Zhang Yongxing , Li Yuman , Sun Wei , Zhang Yanting , Zhu Shuangshuang , Wang Shuyuan , Xie Yuji , Ge Shuping , Zhang Liming , Hu Yu , Xie Mingxing
Published: May 2020

Background:

To investigate deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), we performed a single institutional study to evaluate its prevalence, risk factors, prognosis, and potential thromboprophylaxis strategies in a large referral and treatment center.

Methods:

We studied a total of 143 patients with COVID-19 from January 29, 2020 to February 29, 2020. Demographic and clinical data, laboratory data, including ultrasound scans of the lower extremities, and outcome variables were obtained, and comparisons were made between groups with and without DVT.

Results:

Of the 143 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 (age 63±14 years, 74 [51.7%] men), 66 patients developed lower extremity DVT (46.1%: 23 [34.8%] with proximal DVT and 43 [65.2%] with distal DVT). Compared with patients who did not have DVT, patients with DVT were older and had a lower oxygenation index, a higher rate of cardiac injury, and worse prognosis, including an increased proportion of deaths (23 [34.8%] versus 9 [11.7%];
P
=0.001) and a decreased proportion of patients discharged (32 [48.5%] versus 60 [77.9%];
P
<0.001). Multivariant analysis showed an association only between CURB-65 (confusion status, urea, respiratory rate, and blood pressure) score 3 to 5 (odds ratio, 6.122;
P
=0.031), Padua prediction score ≥4 (odds ratio, 4.016;
P
=0.04), D-dimer >1.0 μg/mL (odds ratio, 5.818;
P
<0.014), and DVT in this cohort, respectively. The combination of a CURB-65 score 3 to 5, a Padua prediction score ≥4, and D-dimer >1.0 μg/mL has a sensitivity of 88.52% and a specificity of 61.43% for screening for DVT. In the subgroup of patients with a Padua prediction score ≥4 and whose ultrasound scans were performed >72 hours after admission, DVT was present in 18 (34.0%) patients in the subgroup receiving venous thromboembolism prophylaxis versus 35 (66.0%) patients in the nonprophylaxis group (
P
=0.010).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of DVT is high and is associated with adverse outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism may be protective in patients with a Padua protection score ≥4 after admission. Our data seem to suggest that COVID-19 is probably an additional risk factor for DVT in hospitalized patients.
May Measurement Month 2019
Authors: Beaney Thomas , Schutte Aletta E. , Stergiou George S. , Borghi Claudio , Burger Dylan , Charchar Fadi , Cro Suzie , Diaz Alejandro , Damasceno Albertino , Espeche Walter , Jose Arun Pulikkottil , Khan Nadia , Kokubo Yoshihiro , Maheshwari Anuj , Marin Marcos J. , More Arun , Neupane Dinesh , Nilsson Peter , Patil Mansi , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Ramirez Agustin , Rodriguez Pablo , Schlaich Markus , Steckelings Ulrike M. , Tomaszewski Maciej , Unger Thomas , Wainford Richard , Wang Jiguang , Williams Bryan , Poulter Neil R. ,   on behalf of MMM Investigators*
Published: May 2020

Elevated blood pressure remains the single biggest risk factor contributing to the global burden of disease and mortality. May Measurement Month is an annual global screening campaign aiming to improve awareness of blood pressure at the individual and population level. Adults (≥18 years) recruited through opportunistic sampling were screened at sites in 92 countries during May 2019. Ideally, 3 blood pressure readings were measured for each participant, and data on lifestyle factors and comorbidities were collected. Hypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg, or a diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg (mean of the second and third readings) or taking antihypertensive medication. When necessary, multiple imputation was used to estimate participants’ mean blood pressure. Mixed-effects models were used to evaluate associations between blood pressure and participant characteristics. Of 1 508 130 screenees 482 273 (32.0%) had never had a blood pressure measurement before and 513 337 (34.0%) had hypertension, of whom 58.7% were aware, and 54.7% were on antihypertensive medication. Of those on medication, 57.8% were controlled to <140/90 mm Hg, and 28.9% to <130/80 mm Hg. Of all those with hypertension, 31.7% were controlled to <140/90 mm Hg, and 350 825 (23.3%) participants had untreated or inadequately treated hypertension. Of those taking antihypertensive medication, half were taking only a single drug, and 25% reported using aspirin inappropriately. This survey is the largest ever synchronized and standardized contemporary compilation of global blood pressure data. This campaign is needed as a temporary substitute for systematic blood pressure screening in many countries worldwide.
The Influence of anti Hadith Group (gah) Thinking on the Muslim Ummah: A Special Study in the Klang ValleyPengaruh Pemikiran Golongan anti Hadith (gah) Kepada Umat Islam: Kajian Khusus di Lembah Klang
Authors: bin Ghazali Mohd Al’ikhsan , Sawari Siti Salwa bt
Published: May 2020

The action of proscribing gah failed to stop the activism of this group. The supports from all sectors and the freedom of speech are being used to influence the Muslim Ummah. Critical and rational minds are potentially weapons to influence the people by gah. With that, the purpose of the study is to explore the influence of gah thinking on the Muslim Ummah and way to combating it. A total of 800 Malay Muslims living in the Klang Valley were chosen as respondents in the study selected using simple random sampling technique. Questionnaires were used in the collection of data for the study: Demographic Background, Islamic Religiosity of the Muslim Ummah, the Influence of gah on the Thinking of the Muslim Ummah and Suggestions. All the instruments used in the collection of data developed by the researcher were referred to and validated by a panel of experts. The Cronbach Alpha reliability level of the questionnaire is high (>0.8). Data were analysed descriptively and inferentially using mean, percentage and standard deviation. Overall, the finding of the study showed the influence of the gah thinking on the Muslim Ummah was at a low level. Finally, this study outlined some ideas and suggestions to overcome the problems caused by gah.
Qurʾānic Interpretative Latitude and Human Evolution: A Case Study
Authors: Majid DS Adnan
Published: May 2020

Muslims today employ various and often conflicting strategies to mitigate contradictions between traditional Islamic teachings and modern science, especially in matters related to the age of the universe and the origin of humans. On the one hand, any scientific theory deemed problematic might be rejected outright; on the other, Islamic texts may be reinterpreted to fully support a novel scientific theory. There is, however, an alternative hermeneutical approach that uses intra-textual analysis to acknowledge “interpretative latitude” in the Qurʾān and other Islamic texts – the possibility that these texts allow for ambiguity and multiple interpretations that may or may not agree with modern science. In this paper, human evolution will serve as a case study of the implementation of this approach via a structured discussion of common Muslim objections to the theory. The paper will conclude with a discussion of the implications of this approach on defining the role of the Qurʾān and on the boundaries of religion and science.
Refleksi Historikal Penglibatan Tokoh Hadis Kurun Ke Enam Hingga 15 Hijrah Dalam Pengaplikasian Talaqqi Bersanad (tb)
Authors: Ramli Farhah Zaidar Mohamed , Majid Latifah Abdul , Nazri Mohd. Arif
Published: May 2020

Talaqqi Bersanad (tb) is an approach based on the concept of studies made directly in front of the al-musnid teacher. It is practised by a combination of al-samaʿ, al-qiraʾah and al-ijāzah methods. tb tradition is consistently applied among the scholars of Ḥadīth, especially beginning in the sixth century to the fifteenth century of Hijrah. The implication of consistently applying this tb is the genealogy sanad Ḥadīth over 15 centuries could be enumerated. This phenomenon of tb is recorded systematically by the scholars of Ḥadīth in the works called al-thabat. Based on the library research, this article revealed a historical reflection on the participation of 48 Ḥadīth exponents who practised tb application through the works of al-thabat respectively. These findings showed that tb is a tradition that has been well-practised and it is not unfamiliar anymore among the Ḥadīth exponents. It is shown that they are practically united in continuing this tradition until now. In fact, these findings also showed that, as if almost every scholar of the Ḥadīth are al-musnid though not all al-Musnid is a scholar of the Ḥadīth. While in another perspective, al-thabat is still relevant so far, as the medium of instruction, like curriculum vitae, which one can demonstrate their genealogy sanad relationship with the teachers from one century to another century until it reaches the highlight which is the Prophet S.A.W.
The Objectives of the Qur’ān for the Education of Islamic Beliefs in Sayyid Qutb’s Tafsīr
Authors: Abdelali Bey Zekkoub
Published: May 2020

The study attempts to identify and deal with some Qur’anic verses on Islamic beliefs in the light of their interpretation in the first thirteen sections of Sayyid Qutb’s Tafsīr “Fī Ẓilāl al-Qur’ān”, covering fourteen chapters from Sūrah al- Fātiḥah until Sūrah Ibrāhīm. The paper is divided into two parts: (1) explanation of Islamic beliefs and their significance in Islamic life, and (2) discussion on the objectives of the Qur’an derived from Sayyid Qutb’s interpretation of the verses on the education of Islamic beliefs. The researcher reached conclusion in the study that Islam is a unit that cannot be split; and that Allāh is the only one to be followed everywhere in the life, beliefs, rites, devotional matters, legislation of law, and political sovereignty.
Qur’anic Perspective on Empowering Humanistic Foreign Language Teaching
Authors: As’ad Mahrus , Bukhori Muslim Ahmad , Ghozali Budiharjo Imam
Published: May 2020

Divinity-based humanistic education which includes foreign language teaching has become a growing concern. Within the development of humanistic foreign language teaching over decades, however, discussion on how Qur’anic perspective may have contributed to this area is still under study. This document analysis explores the contribution of Islamic scripture on the development of humanistic foreign language teaching. Data were derived from about 11 Qur’anic terminologies addressing aspects of Stevick’s pedagogy as a model of humanistic language teaching. Content analysis shows that these Qur’anic verses have provided some essential guidelines for developing an empowering humanistic foreign language learning necessarily required by language teachers, regardless of their faith affiliations. This issue is comprehensively addressed in various Qur’anic terms such as qawlan baliighan (effectiveness) qawlan sadiidan (responsibility), qawlan ma’ruufan (feelings and social relations) and bilisaani qawmih (intellectuality and self-actualization). Although these Qur’anic terminologies are more frequently used as communication principles, their impacts in developing a more empowering humanistic language teaching is also of paramount importance.
PENDEKATAN AL-JAM‘ DALAM MENANGANI PERCANGGAHAN HADITH
Authors: bin Baru Rohaizan , bin Deraman Fauzi
Published: May 2020

The issue of the Hadiths that seem to contradict each others, quranic texts or even other facts has been handled by the Hadith scholars. Muslim scholars, whom are being referred to, should ready always to give interpretations, explanations and conclusions to solve these so called ‘contradictions’ which in reality can cause negative impacts on the accountability of Hadith as one of the main sources for the Muslims civilization. This writing intends to explore the method of al-Jam‘ that is being used by Hadith theologians to find solutions for contradiction that appeared to happen between a Hadith and another. One of the dominant and chosen methods in solving this problem is by the unification or coordination between the meanings and purposes of the Hadiths that appeared to contradict each others.
HADITH-HADITH MENGENAI SIHIR DAN RAWATANNYA DALAM AL-KUTUB AL-SITTAH
Authors: Ahmad Khadher , Suliaman Ishak
Published: May 2020

There are numbers of Prophetic texts or Hadith regarding the topic of sorcery and its treatment. Based on textual analysis, there are 36 texts of hadith in al- Kutub al-Sittah (The Six Books of Hadith), pertaining the topic of sorcery and it treatments. There are 24 texts of Hadith focusing on the concept of sorcery, its types and the explanation of witchcraft cases on the time of the Prophet and regarding the sorcerer. In addition, there are 12 texts of Hadith explain the Prophetic methods in dealing with the treatment of curing the sorcery and its preventive approaches. The study reveals that the topic of sorcery and its treatment derives from 48 texts of Hadith in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, 29 texts of Hadith in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, 20 texts of Hadith in Sunan Abī Dāwūd, 17 texts of Hadith in Jāmi‘ al- Tirmīdhī, 9 texts of Hadith in Sunan al-Nasā’ī and 12 texts of Hadith in Sunan Ibn Mājah. In terms of quality of Prophetic texts of sorcery and its treatment, it is found that out of 36 texts of Hadith, there are 31 texts of Hadith Ṣaḥīḥ, 2 texts of Ḥadith Hasan and 3 texts of Hadith Ḍa‘īf.
HADITH “ANTI WANITA” BERKENAAN DENGAN KEHIDUPAN RUMAH TANGGA: KAJIAN KRITIK TERHADAP FEMINIS LIBERAL
Authors: Ali Mohd Akil Muhamed , Ibrahim Mazlan , Sayska Dwi Sukmanila
Published: May 2020

Equality and gender justice issues are often debated by liberal feminist groups in either the West or East. Muslim feminist groups in particular often use certain hadiths to show the injustice of Islam against women. Therefore, this article will analyze some of the hadiths that are used by this group as anti-women. This article will focus on sanad and matan and also the right meaning of the hadith. The methodology used in this study is literature and content analysis. This article is intended to correct the allegation or wrong assumption and put the hadith on the right position, therefore it will be respected and being noble.
علي بن أبي طالب سياسيًّا: قبسٌ من المرويّات الواصفة له
Authors: ثريّا أحمد
Published: May 2020

Perbincangan topik kehidupan politik Ali ibn Abi Talib lebih banyak menjurus kepada tercetusnya pemberontakan dan perpecahan umat kepada beberapa puak. Fenomena yang signifikan pada zaman pemerintahan Ali sedikit sebanyak telah menyebabkan nilai-nilai jati diri khalifah tersebut sebagai pemimpin diabaikan. Bertitik-tolak dari hakikat ini, artikel ini cuba menyerlahkan keperibadian Ali semasa pemerintahannya bersumberkan riwayat-riwayat yang memenuhi kriteria untuk dijadikan landasan. Riwayatriwayat ini telah memberi gambaran Ali ibn Abi Talib sebagai pemimpin yang mempunyai nilai keilmuan yang tinggi. Ia juga menonjolkan keperibadian Ali sebagai khalifah di dalam menangani masalah pemberontakan sekaligus sikap segelintir yang terlalu mengagungkannya. Ali adalah seorang pemimpin yang sangat berwibawa dan telus yang mana patut dicontohi oleh mereka yang memegang mandat kepimpinan.