Classicism Research Articles

Preparticipation Cardiac Evaluation Findings in a Cohort of Collegiate Female Athletes

Knowledge of cardiovascular adaptations in athletes has predominantly focused on males, with limited data available on females who compromise a substantial percentage of all collegiate athletes. A multicenter retrospective cohort review of preparticipation cardiovascular screening data of 329 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I female athletes was performed. This included physical exams, electrocardiograms, and echocardiograms. Female athletes in class IB sports had elevated systolic blood pressure (p = 0.01). For electrocardiograms, 7 (2%) had abnormal findings: 100% were white; 6 of 7 (86%) participated in IIC sports. Black athletes had longer PR intervals (p ≤ 0.001), whereas white athletes had longer QTc and QRS durations (p = 0.02 and 0.01, respectively). Athletes in IC and IIC sports had longer QTc intervals (p = 0.01). For echocardiographic parameters, no differences were noted based on race. However, significant differences were noted based on classification of sport: athletes in class IC sports had higher left-atrial volume indexes and E/A ratios. Athletes in class IB and IIC had increased left-ventricular wall thicknesses and aortic root dimensions. In conclusion, among one of the largest cohorts of collegiate female athlete preparticipation cardiac screening data to date, significant differences in various parameters based on classification of sport and race were observed. These categorizations should be considered when interpreting cardiovascular screening in female collegiate athletes to improve screening and guide future research.

Novel insights on Andersen-Tawil syndrome type 1

Abstract Background Andersen-Tawil Syndrome type 1 (ATS1) in a rare arrhythmogenic disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in the KCNJ2 gene and characterized by ventricular arrhythmias, dysmorphic features and episodes of periodic paralysis. Although the prognosis of ATS1 patients is typically considered benign, definitive outcome data are lacking. Purpose We aimed to: 1) define the risk of life-threatening arrhythmic events (LAEs); 2) identify risk factors for such events; 3) assess the efficacy of anti-arrhythmic drugs in preventing LAEs. Methods We included 118 ATS1 patients from 57 families with confirmed pathogenic or likely pathogenic KCNJ2 mutations. Clinical and genetical data were acquired by investigators from 23 centers in 9 countries. Results Baseline characteristics of the population are presented in the Table. Over a follow-up of 6.2 years, 17/118 (14%) patients experienced a first LAE, with a 5-year cumulative probability of 7.9% (Figure). Cox multivariable analysis demonstrated that a previous history of syncope (HR 4.5, p=0.02), the documentation of sustained VT (HR 9.3, p=0.001) and the administration of amiodarone (HR 268, p<0.001) were associated with an increased risk of LAE. The baseline rate of LAE was not reduced by beta-blockers alone (1.37 per 100 py; p=1), or in combination with class Ic antiarrhythmic drugs (1.46 per 100 py, p=1). Conclusions Our data demonstrate that the clinical course of patients with ATS1 is characterized by a high rate of LAE. A history of unexplained syncope, and documentation of sustained ventricular tachycardia are independently associated with a higher risk of LAE. Amiodarone is proarrhythmic and should be avoided in ATS1 patients. ATS1: Diagnosis, Outcome, Risk Factors Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): ERN Guard-Heart European Reference Network for Rare and Low Prevalence Complex Diseases of the Heart

New series of surgical design for anterior maxillary reconstruction with deep circumflex iliac artery flap.

Microsurgical reconstruction for anterior maxillary defects presents a surgical challenge. The objective of this study was to ascertain the feasibility of a new series of intraoral surgical approach using deep circumflex iliac artery (DCIA) flap to achieve functional reconstruction for anterior maxillary defects. Two male patients with anterior maxillary defects (Brown Class IC) were treated in this study. Both patients underwent computer-assisted maxillary reconstruction with a DCIA flap (with pedicle positioning laterally to the bony flap) using intraoral anastomosis techniques. The overall DCIA flap survival rate was 100% and mucosa was all healed uneventfully. One patient received dental implantation and loaded with prosthetic superstructures. Both patients were satisfied with their postoperative oral function and appearance. This study illustrated a new and feasible series of surgical design for anterior maxillary bone defect reconstruction with DCIA flaps and intraoral anastomosis assisted by digital techniques.

Forced vibration analysis of non-local strain gradient rod subjected to harmonic excitations

In this technical paper, forced longitudinal vibration response of non-local strain gradient (NLSG) rods is obtained and compared with that of non-local (NL), strain gradient (SG), and classical (CL) rods. To this end, size-dependent kinematics along with extended Hamilton’s principle are used to derive governing equations of motion. Classical clamped-free and non-classical clamped-forcing free-strained boundary conditions are adopted. For the first time, forced longitudinal vibratory behavior of non-classical and classical rods subjected to harmonic external loading is presented. In investigation process, effects of non-classical parameters over mechanical impedance, resonance frequency, mechanical frequency response function (FRF) (transmissibility), time period, and time-domain response are determined. Effect of non-classical parameters over time-domain response of the system is analyzed in details. Results are compared with benchmark approving good level of accuracy, disclosing the intensifying effects of material length scale parameter over natural frequency as well as mechanical impedance and resonance frequency. Meanwhile, non-local parameter leads to decrement of natural frequency, mechanical impedance and resonance frequency. Furthermore, it is realized that crest value of transmissibility is not predictable based on frequency and/or impedance variations with respect to non-classical parameters; and requires separate analysis for individual cases. In other words, a pattern referring to gradations of natural and resonance frequencies, mechanical impedance and non-classical parameters and rod models is detectable; however, such patterns do not hold for estimation of mechanical frequency response function (transmissibility peak value). Moreover, stiffness-softening and stiffness-hardening effects are the most impressive and influential factors over transmissibility peak values which can be highly important for energy harvesting rod analysis. Findings of this research point to the importance of proper non-classical theorems along with corresponding non-classical parameters to predict the response of small-scaled rods for wide range of applications in control of robotics, musical instruments, navigating equipment, space wheels, fly wheels, gyroscopes, sensors, actuators, resonators, vibration isolators and energy harvesters.

Effects Of Esport Specific Supplementation On Esport Performance And Physiological Measurements

Esports, or competitive video gaming, requires persistent cognitive functioning, alertness, quick reaction time, and mental clarity. As Esports has gained attention, more research is justified to elucidate performance enhancing strategies. Interestingly, Esport supplements aimed to improve reaction time, focus, and energy levels have yet to be heavily investigated. PURPOSE: To examine the impact of an Esport specific supplement on Esports performance and physiological responses. METHODS: Fifteen males (age = 22.0 ± 1.1 yrs, ht = 181.7 ± 10.2 cm, wt = 83.6 ± 14.5 kg, gaming = 13.9 ± 6.6 hrs) participated in the study. After completion of a baseline familiarization session including an Esports aim trainer (AT), subjects completed 2 performance sessions in a counterbalanced crossover design. Participants were given an Esports supplement (SUP) [caffeine, L-Theanine, Ginkgo Biloba, Vitamin B6, D3, B12] or placebo (PLA) 30 minutes prior to starting AT. During AT sessions, 3 rounds of 3 tests were completed each session: classic (CLA), reflex (RE), simple (SIM), and 1 round of time trial (TT). During each test, score (SCO), accuracy (ACC), and time per hit (TPH) were recorded, as well as time to completion (TTC) during CLA and TT. Before and after AT, BP and 5min resting HR and HrV were assessed. Subjects were asked mental fatigue and alertness prior to and after AT, along with SRPE after AT. Paired samples t-tests with an alpha level at p< 0.05 were used to compare measurements of HR, HrV, BP, peak ACC, peak SCO, peak TPH, and peak TTC between SUP and PLA. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between SUP or PLA in regard to ACC (CLA 91.3 ± 3.0 vs 90.3 ± 4.4 %, RE 40.7 ± 12.9 vs 39.2 ± 12.0 %, SIM 61.7 ± 14.1 vs 61.7 ± 17.8 %, TT 48.0 ± 14.9 vs 49.7 ± 14.2 %, p ≥ 0.05), SCO (CLA 116357.1 ± 60706.9 vs 113642.9 ± 51013.7, RE 45839.3 ± 29161.1 vs 42339.3 ± 27287.2, SIM 40964.3 ± 22276.6 vs 38892.9 ± 24041.8, TT 16714.3 ± 20364.7 vs 20000.0 ± 18630.0, p ≥ 0.05), TPH (CLA 0.6 ± 0.1 vs 0.6 ± 0.1 sec, SIM 1.9 ± 0.5 vs 1.9 ± 0.5 sec, TT 1.8 ± 0.5 vs 1.7 ± 0.5 sec, p ≥ 0.05), and TTC (CLA 85.9 ± 23.1 vs 90.7 ± 15.4 sec, TT 177.5 ± 59.7 vs 161.7 ± 53.1 sec, p ≥ 0.05). CONCLUSION: SUP did not improve Esports performance during AT compared to PLA. This could be due to dosage, AT used, and level of experience of participants.

Anaemia, iron deficiency and heart failure in 2020: facts and numbers.

Anaemia is defined by WHO as Hb < 13.0 g/dL in male adults and <12.0 g/dL in female adults. It is a common comorbidity in patients of heart failure with both HFrEF and HFpEF. The incidence ranges between 30% and 50%, though in certain communities, it is likely to be higher still. Elderly age, severe heart failure, poor nutrition, and elevation of inflammatory markers are associated with a higher incidence of anaemia. However, the commonest contributing factor to anaemia in HF is iron deficiency. In a Canadian study of 12 065 patients, the incidence of absolute ID was 21% in anaemic patients. Many other western studies have also quoted incidences varying between 35% and 43%.The earlier attempts to improve outcomes by supplementation with Erythropoietic‐stimulating factors were unsuccessful and resulted in a higher incidence of thrombotic events. Iron deficiency (ID) has emerged as an important factor in patients of HF, even in those without anaemia and worsens outcomes. It is defined as Ferritin levels below 100 mcg/L or 100–299 μg/L with transferrin saturation of <20%. Attempts to correct ID by oral supplementation have been unsuccessful as seen in IRON‐HF and IRONOUT‐HF trials. FAIR‐HF and CONFIRM‐HF conclusively established the role of IV Iron in improving exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with HFrEF. ESC guidelines have given a class IC indication for testing all heart failure patients for ID, and an IIaA recommendation for its correction by IV ferric carboxymaltose was found to be deficient. Ongoing trials will establish the role of IV iron in improving mortality and in HFpEF patients and in patients with acute heart failure.

Antiarrhythmic drug therapy after atrial fibrillation ablation: data of the ESC-EHRA registry

Aim. Catheter ablation (CA) is an effective approach for rhythm control in atrial fibrillation (AF), however antiarrhythmic therapy (AAT) remains important. There is a lack of data about long-term AAT use after CA. This study evaluates AAT after CA for AF.Material and methods. In 2012-2016, EURObservational Research Programme of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Long-Term (EORP AFA L-T) registry was conducted, which included 476 Russian patients (57,1% — men; mean age — 57,1±8,7 years). The follow-up after CA was 12 months (available in 81,9% of patients). The use of AAT was evaluated prior to hospitalization, during hospitalization for CA, as well as at 3, 6 and 12 months of follow-up.Results. Prior to CA, 439 (92,2%) patients received AAT During CA, 459 (96,4%) patients were treated with AAT. After CA, AAT was used by 463 (97,3%), 370 (94,8%), and 307 (78,7%) patients at 3, 6 and 12 months of follow-up, respectively. There was no arrhythmia recurrence in 187 (47,9%) subjects. Among these patients, 40 (21,4%) received class IC or III AAT. The peak of AAT use was found for class IC agents within 3 months after CA (P&lt;0,05), while for other drugs this trend was not observed. There were no factors associated with AAT usage in patients without arrhythmia recurrence after CA. A positive correlation of arrhythmia non-recurrence with a minimum number of previously used antiarrhythmic agents was revealed (RR=0,85; 95% CI 0,73-0,98; P=0,03).Conclusion. The frequency of AAT use after AF ablation is significantly reduced. However, there is a cohort of patients without documented arrhythmia recurrence still receiving AAT, which requires special attention of physicians. There were no clinical predictors of continued AAT in subjects without arrhythmia recurrence.

The Problem of Moisture Content in Historical Buildings Based on a Classicist Tenement House at 14A, Śląska Street in Gubin

Abstract Diagnostics and mitigation of excessive moisture effects are some of the most frequent problems in historical buildings. In this article, an attempt was made to measure the moisture content of construction elements in the historical tenement house in Gubin. It is the largest town in the Krosno Poviat, in the area of the Lubuskie Voivodeship. The town suffered from military actions during World War II whereby approximately 90% of its urban development was destroyed. The tenement house at 14A, Śląska Street is one of the more well-preserved buildings, made in the classicist style with characteristic historical features. The whole history of the building is unknown but there are freemasonry symbols on the elevation, and probably the Military Police had its headquarters there after 1945.

“The Revolution of Dignity" in Ukraine in the Context of Civilizational Choice

Introduction. The actuality of the declared topic is due to the search for a way out of the protracted crisis in Ukrainian society and Russian-Ukrainian relations. The purpose of the paper is a theoretical understanding of the civilizational choice of citizens of Ukraine during the “revolution of dignity”.Methodology and sources. When studying this topic, the author relies on the civilizational and formational approaches recognized in sociology and other humanities that explain the development of societies and states. In addition, the events of 2014 are interpreted taking into account the theory of revolutions. Herewith, the author addresses both theories developed long before the “revolution of dignity” in Ukraine, as well as contemporary Russian and foreign authors who are exploring this problem. The author focuses on the result of this process, considers the next “colour revolution“ in Ukraine as a stage in determining the civilizational future of Ukraine, as a “civilizational revolution“.Results and discussion. In the scientific community, the signs of the “classical revolution“ are usually understood by the authors quite clearly, although not without exception. The author provides definitions and interpretations of the category of “revolution”, which are widely used at present to explain the revolutionary social upheavals of the late XX – early XXI century. The general and special in the above interpretations are analyzed to explain the Ukrainian events of 2014. In addition, the provisions of the civilizational approach of the theory of states are extrapolated to the Ukrainian events of 2014 in order to determine their social significance and character.Conclusion. The concept of “civilizational revolution“ is currently quite vague and ambiguous. It is proposed to interpret the events of 2014 in Ukraine as a “civilizational revolution” in the context of the civilizational approach of the typology of states. Currently, the most acute stage is observed, accompanied by the loss of territory, armed conflict between supporters of the Western development vector and the Russian or Slavic vector.

Deciphering the fate of slan+ -monocytes in human tonsils by gene expression profiling.

Monocytic cells perform crucial homeostatic and defensive functions. However, their fate and characterization at the transcriptomic level in human tissues are partially understood, often as a consequence of the lack of specific markers allowing their unequivocal identification. The 6-sulfo LacNAc (slan) antigen identifies a subset of non-classical (NC) monocytes in the bloodstream, namely the slan+ -monocytes. In recent studies, we and other groups have reported that, in tonsils, slan marks dendritic cell (DC)-like cells, as defined by morphological, phenotypical, and functional criteria. However, subsequent investigations in lymphomas have uncovered a significant heterogeneity of tumor-infiltrating slan+ -cells, including a macrophage-like state. Based on their emerging role in tissue inflammation and cancer, herein we investigated slan+ -cell fate in tonsils by using a molecular-based approach. Hence, RNA from tonsil slan+ -cells, conventional CD1c+ DCs (cDC2) and CD11b+ CD14+ -macrophages was subjected to gene expression analysis. For comparison, transcriptomes were also obtained from blood cDC2, classical (CL), intermediate (INT), NC, and slan+ -monocytes. Data demonstrate that the main trajectory of human slan+ -monocytes infiltrating the tonsil tissue is toward a macrophage-like population, displaying molecular features distinct from those of tonsil CD11b+ CD14+ -macrophages and cDC2. These findings provide a novel view on the terminal differentiation path of slan+ -monocytes, which is relevant for inflammatory diseases and lymphomas.

Natural History and Risk Stratification in Andersen-Tawil Syndrome Type 1

BackgroundAndersen-Tawil Syndrome type 1 (ATS1) is a rare arrhythmogenic disorder, caused by loss-of-function mutations in the KCNJ2 gene. We present here the largest cohort of patients with ATS1 with outcome data reported. ObjectivesThis study sought to define the risk of life-threatening arrhythmic events (LAE), identify predictors of such events, and define the efficacy of antiarrhythmic therapy in patients with ATS1. MethodsClinical and genetic data from consecutive patients with ATS1 from 23 centers were entered in a database implemented at ICS Maugeri in Pavia, Italy, and pooled for analysis. ResultsWe enrolled 118 patients with ATS1 from 57 families (age 23 ± 17 years at enrollment). Over a median follow-up of 6.2 years (interquartile range: 2.7 to 16.5 years), 17 patients experienced a first LAE, with a cumulative probability of 7.9% at 5 years. An increased risk of LAE was associated with a history of syncope (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.54; p = 0.02), with the documentation of sustained ventricular tachycardia (HR 9.34; p = 0.001) and with the administration of amiodarone (HR: 268; p < 0.001). The rate of LAE without therapy (1.24 per 100 person-years [py]) was not reduced by beta-blockers alone (1.37 per 100 py; p = 1.00), or in combination with Class Ic antiarrhythmic drugs (1.46 per 100 py, p = 1.00). ConclusionsOur data demonstrate that the clinical course of patients with ATS1 is characterized by a high rate of LAE. A history of unexplained syncope or of documented sustained ventricular tachycardia is associated with a higher risk of LAE. Amiodarone is proarrhythmic and should be avoided in patients with ATS1.

Analgesia in acute ischemic chest pain.

Analgesics, particularly opioids, have been routinely used in the emergency treatment of ischemic chest pain for a long time. In the past two decades; however, several studies have raised the possibility of the harmful effects of opioid administration. In 2014, the American Heart Association (AHA)/American College of Cardiology Foundation (ACCF) changed the guidelines regarding the use of opioids from class IC to class IIb for non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome. And in 2015, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines incidentally noted the side effects of opioids. In ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, both ESC and AHA/ACCF still recommend the use of opioids. Given the need for adequate pain relief in ischemic chest pain in the emergency setting, it is necessary to understand the adverse effects of analgesia, while still providing sufficiently potent options for analgesia. The primary purpose of this review is to quantify the effects of analgesics commonly used in the prehospital and emergency department in patients with ischemic chest pain.

The Case of Flecainide Toxicity: What to Look For and How to Treat

Introduction: Flecainide is a class Ic antiarrhythmic agent used to prevent and treat both ventricular and supraventricular tachycardias including atrial fibrillation, AV nodal re-entrant tachycardia (AVNRT), and Wolff- Parkinson-White syndrome (WPW). Flecainide can cause serious side effects include cardiac arrest, arrhythmias, and heart failure. Despite its growing use, the presenting signs and symptoms of flecainide toxicity are not familiar to most clinicians. Case description: This was a 58 year-old female who presented from her skilled nursing facility due to hypoxia and altered mental status. Past medical history was notable for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation for which she was on flecainide. At the nursing facility the patient was noted to be obtunded, whereas at baseline she was reportedly alert and oriented. On presentation to the Emergency Department EKG demonstrated wide-complex tachycardia. Subsequent lab results were notable for hypokalemia and an acute kidney injury (AKI). A repeat EKG was concerning for ischemia in leads II, III, aVF and cardiology was emergently consulted. They noted the EKG changes were consistent with flecainide toxicity, specifically a prolonged PR interval and QRS. She was eventually admitted to the medical intensive care unit. Her wide complex tachycardia on admission was ultimately attributed to flecainide toxicity in setting of AKI. Six days after presentation, it was found that her flecainide level was in the toxic range at 2.02 ug/mL (normal range: 0.20-1.00 ug/mL, toxic>1.50 ug/mL). Discussion: Flecainide intoxication is rare but serious due to the potential for cardiogenic shock. Its diagnosis can be difficult as the flecainide serum level may take days to result and there are no pathognomonic clinical signs. This case demonstrates the necessity of keeping flecainide toxicity on the physician’s differential for patients who are taking the drug, as well as what ECG and laboratory findings can suggest it as the etiology. A heightened suspicion is warranted in the patient with new renal impairment. Treatment can be lifesaving if initiated promptly.

Transcriptome analyses reveal molecular mechanisms underlying phenotypic differences among transcriptional subtypes of glioblastoma.

Using molecular signatures, previous studies have defined glioblastoma (GBM) subtypes with different phenotypes, such as the proneural (PN), neural (NL), mesenchymal (MES) and classical (CL) subtypes. However, the gene programmes underlying the phenotypes of these subtypes were less known. We applied weighted gene co‐expression network analysis to establish gene modules corresponding to various subtypes. RNA‐seq and immunohistochemical data were used to validate the expression of identified genes. We identified seven molecular subtype‐specific modules and several candidate signature genes for different subtypes. Next, we revealed, for the first time, that radioresistant/chemoresistant gene signatures exist only in the PN subtype, as described by Verhaak et al, but do not exist in the PN subtype described by Phillips et al PN subtype. Moreover, we revealed that the tumour cells in the MES subtype GBMs are under ER stress and that angiogenesis and the immune inflammatory response are both significantly elevated in this subtype. The molecular basis of these biological processes was also uncovered. Genes associated with alternative RNA splicing are up‐regulated in the CL subtype GBMs, and genes pertaining to energy synthesis are elevated in the NL subtype GBMs. In addition, we identified several survival‐associated genes that positively correlated with glioma grades. The identified intrinsic characteristics of different GBM subtypes can offer a potential clue to the pathogenesis and possible therapeutic targets for various subtypes.

Association Between Third Molar Impaction Status and Angle or Condylar Fractures of the Mandible: A Retrospective Analysis

The aim of our study was to evaluate the correlations between mandibular third molar impaction status and mandibular angle and condylar fractures. This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients with unilateral and isolated angle or condylar fractures. Patient records and panoramic radiographs were evaluated. The predictor variables included the presence, impaction status (Pell and Gregory [P&G] classification), and angulation (Winter classification) of the third molar. The outcome variable was the type of fracture, whereas other predictor variables included demographic factors such as age, gender, and fracture etiology. Bivariate (χ2 test) and logistic regression analyses were conducted to estimate the associations between variables and the outcome. The sample was composed of 164 angle fracture (mean age, 31.6±12.3years; 83.5% male) and 115 condylar fracture (mean age, 41.9±16.8years; 76.5% male) patients. A third molar was present in 72.6% of the angle fracture group and 54.8% of the condylar fracture group (P=.002). Deep impactions (classes IC, IIC, IIIB, and IIIC) exhibited an odds ratio (OR) of 3.60 for angle fractures (P<.001). No association was found between tooth angulations and the type of fracture. According to logistic regression analysis, older age (adjusted OR, 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03 to 1.07), P&G class I impaction (OR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.09 to 3.20), and P&G class A impaction (OR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.12 to 3.24) were significantly associated with condylar fractures whereas the presence of a third molar (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.76) or P&G class B impaction (OR, 0.287; 95% CI, 0.12 to 0.69) was associated with angular fractures. P&G class II or III and class B impaction status was significantly associated with angle fractures, whereas missing or fully erupted (class IA) third molars significantly correlated with condylar fractures.

A meta-analysis of liver-first versus classical strategy for synchronous colorectal liver metastases.

This study aimed to compare the perioperative outcomes of liver-first (LFS) and classical (CS) strategy for the management of synchronous colorectal liver metastases (sCRLM). A literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The odds ratio, weighted mean difference, and 95% confidence interval were evaluated by means of the random-effects model. Ten articles met the inclusion criteria, incorporating 3656 patients. Patients in the LFS group reported increased size of sCRLM and a higher rate of major hepatectomies. This study reveals comparable overall survival and disease-free survival at 1, 3, and 5years postoperatively between the two strategies. Moreover, the mean operative time, length of hospital stay, the incidence of severe complications, and the 30-day and 90-day mortality were similar between the two groups. The mean intraoperative blood loss was significantly increased in the LFS group. These outcomes suggest that both approaches are feasible and safe. Given the lack of randomized clinical trials, this meta-analysis represents the best currently available evidence. However, the results should be treated with caution given the small number of the included studies. Randomized trials comparing LFS to CS are necessary to further evaluate their outcomes.

Athens and Rome Contrasted: The Present Challenge of Managing Two Manners of Classicism

Athens and Rome Contrasted: The Present Challenge of Managing Two Manners of Classicism

The Influence of Tillage System on Weeds and Maize Yields, in Different Pedoclimatic Conditions of Transylvanian Plain, During 2007-2018

Among the technological factors that contribute to the yield of maize, the fight weeds is a mandatory requirement. In 2007, a factorial yield test was performed at the Agricultural Research and Development Station (ARDS) Turda, where was studied the influence of the two systems, the classic (CS) and the minimum tillage one (MT) on the weeds and the yield maize, for a period of 12 years. Generally the total number of weeds in MT was higher (343 pcs. m-2 ) than CS (324 pcs.m2), because, without soil inversion, weed seeds remained in the soil surface layer where climate conditions stimulated weed germination. The cultivation of maize in minimum tillage system could be recommended as a viable alternative to the classical system in the hilly area from Transylvania, this recommendation is also based on the rather small quantitative differences (133 kg ha-1 ) between the two tillage systems.

СМЫСЛОВЫЕ ПОДТЕКСТЫ ДЕВЯТОЙ СИМФОНИИ Д. ШОСТАКОВИЧА

The ninth symphony, created by D. Shostakovich in 1945 and a few years later defined as the “scherzo symphony”, was met with bewilderment by critics who expected a grandiose work praising the Victory. The deep layers of its content, the direction of the author’s thought, become accessible to understanding only as a result of the analysis of the composer’s work with thematic material having a “secondary” nature. This is material I (sonata allegro), III (scherzo) and V (final). The main themes of parts I and III are generalized in genre, they are characterized by being ori-entated at classicist style models. The remaining thematism reveals domestic origins: march (theme of the Second subject group of part I), tarantella (theme of the episode of part III), gallop (theme of the First subject group of the final), march song (theme of the Second subject group of the final). The reliance on these genre models determines the melodic-rhythmic, harmonic, textural, and structural characteristics of the corresponding themes. In the purest form, typical signs of genre-stylistic models appear during the exhibition. In the process of development of the themes, a general pattern is the exposure of the proto-intonation layer (E. Nazaikinsky's term), putting in the foreground the biological, the animal in a person – which is connected with the instinct of destruction, uncontrolled aggression, etc. Just as a predatory grimace disfigures a human face, in the aspect of musical decisions, protointonation is manifested through the deformation of the genre and style models comprising all the levels of musical organization, which is most clearly represented in the developments and reprises. These means serve as a metaphor for the destruction of the cultural layer, which determined the way of artistic imprinting of Homo agens, Homo sapiens, Homo ludens, Homo communis. In the Ninth Symphony, Shostakovich models the process of disintegration of human culture and a person, who has lost the spiritual core, the release of the dark component of his nature. This way he reveals the inner content of the themes-images that initially fit into the traditions and norms of musical culture – prima-ry, household, or professional, artistic. Since such techniques contribute to the detection of meaning, they are included in the sphere of superintonation, simultaneously expressing the author's concept. The result of the figurative development of parts II and IV is the repression of the living human principle, rooted in the native culture and at the same time addressed to the sublime, which manifests itself in feeling and thought. These processes express the idea of the doom of Personality under the pressure of vulgarity and dirt, which, refracted in the mind of the Artist, is generalized and grows up to the level of a symbol. The specificity, tangibility of images in the presence of a plan of philosophical understanding al-low us to speak about the presence in the given symphony of features of the parable genre. Author's musical “narration” contains, in a coded form, a system of value directions and modeling of the conditions under which ideals are destroyed.

&lt;em&gt;Research Notes&lt;/em&gt;: New Discoveries in Old Sources: A Neglected Ledger Reveals the Persons and Processes of Building in Late-Colonial Virginia

Research Notes: New Discoveries in Old SourcesA Neglected Ledger Reveals the Persons and Processes of Building in Late-Colonial Virginia Henry K. Sharp (bio) Purchased by the Library of Congress in 1905, a collection of family papers contains letters giving firsthand accounts of the Revolutionary War, yet a routine business ledger included with them contains far more significant narratives. A book project now underway uncovers and relates those stories. The following is a glimpse of what they promise. Betty Littlepage faced a dilemma. Widowed in December 1766, with a precocious boy of four and a girl still a babe in arms, she found that her much older husband, James Littlepage, had left an extensive but significantly indebted estate. "South Wales," some three thousand acres on the banks of the South Anna River in Hanover County, Virginia, would have to be sold and its residents dispersed. That Betty was Colonel Littlepage's second wife and stepmother to his first five nearly grown children brought other layers of complication. Where was she to go, and how would she live?1 Betty's resolution, clarified over the next twenty-three months as the executors winnowed out her former life, led her home. Spotsylvania County, to the northwest across the North Anna River, was the community of her birth and where most of her siblings still lived; her brothers resided on lands inherited from their father and her sisters settled nearby with generous dowries brought to their own marriages.2 But Betty had another objective. She did not deliver herself to the encompassing control of a new husband as was customary for most young widows in need of support. Instead she proceeded to set up her own domain on 480 acres purchased from her youngest brother Benjamin Lewis. There she would build, organize, and manage a plantation. On May 5, 1768, some eighteen months after the death of her husband and while she still resided precariously at South Wales, negotiations with Charles Carter of Corotoman formalized his purchase of James Littlepage's plantation. Two days after signing Carter's indenture, Betty formalized her purchase of the Spotsylvania lands from her brother Benjamin. Concurrently, Benjamin sold a four-hundred-acre tract across the North Anna in Louisa County to a young builder in exchange for three items of value: a Spanish doubloon; the young man's assumption of a bond of Benjamin's to another gentleman; and, significantly, an agreement to undertake any construction projects that Benjamin might request equivalent to the value of the remaining balance.3 Garritt Minor was the builder, then aged twenty-four, the same as Benjamin Lewis. On Benjamin's orders, Garritt began Betty Littlepage's plantation that spring. Independently, Garritt and Betty discussed the configuration of the site and the type and arrangement of the buildings. Evidence of their conversation survives in an exceptional site plan, creased and worn from years of storage in a court case file (Figure 1). The drawing features a dwelling house in the center of a rectangular paled enclosure of yard and garden with a symmetrical disposition of three groups of outbuildings around the perimeter: a smokehouse, kitchen, and dairy; a "chair & pigeon house," weaving house, and stable; and a quarter and privy. While the elevations of these structures were understood, each building was [End Page 79] Click for larger view View full resolution Figure 1. Garritt Minor, site plan for Betty Littlepage's plantation, 1768, showing the symmetrical organization and 1:2 proportions of the enclosure and dwelling house. Courtesy of the Library of Virginia. rendered in plan to show specific characteristics. The bilateral symmetry of the principal outbuildings and the 1:2 proportions of the enclosure and of the dwelling house display the influence of Renaissance classicism, tempered by regional tradition; Betty Littlepage was not an unsophisticated client.4 She and her two children moved by wagon from South Wales in November 1768, and by late spring of 1769 Garritt had completed his work for her.5 The details of Betty Littlepage's project derive from two sources. The first comprises the papers of a chancery suit Benjamin Lewis brought against Garritt Minor in 1772 to resolve a dispute over the...