bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Anti-IL-17 Monoclonal Antibodies in HIV Patients with Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Authors: Pangilinan Mary Catherine G. , Sermswan Peerada , Asawanonda Pravit
Published: August 2020

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin disease with various presentations. HIV infection affects the immune system and aggravates psoriasis lesions. Therefore, psoriasis management in HIV patients poses a great challenge for dermatologists. In this report, 2 HIV patients with erythrodermic psoriasis received anti-IL-17 and experienced significant clearance of lesions. No recurrence or opportunistic infection was noted. In conclusion, anti-IL-17 monoclonal antibodies are an effective and promising treatment option for HIV-infected patients with psoriasis.
Effect of Times to Blood Processing on the Stability of Blood Proteins Associated with Dementia
Authors: Chang Jui-Feng , Liu Huei-Chun , Chen H.H. , Chen Wen-Ping , Juang Jian-Lin , Wang Pei-Ning , Yang Shieh-Yueh
Published: August 2020

Background: The stability of proteins in the collecting tubes after blood draw is critical to the measured concentrations of the proteins. Although the guidelines issued by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) suggest centrifugation should take place within 2 h of drawing blood, it is very difficult to follow these guidelines in hospitals or clinics. It is necessary to study the effect of times to blood processing on the stability of the proteins of interest. Methods: In this work, the plasma proteins of interest were those relevant to dementia, such as amyloid β 1–40 (Aβ1–40), Aβ1–42, Tau protein (Tau), and α-synuclein. The times to blood processing after blood draw ranged from 0.5 to 8 h. The storage temperatures of blood were room temperature (approx. 25°C) and 30°C. After storage, blood samples were centrifuged at room temperature to obtain plasma samples. Ultrasensitive immunomagnetic reduction was applied to assay these proteins in the plasma. Results: The levels of plasma Aβ1–40, Tau, and α-synuclein did not significantly change until 8 h after blood draw when stored at room temperature. Plasma Aβ1–42 levels did not change significantly after 8 h of storage at room temperature before blood processing. Higher storage temperatures, such as 30°C, for blood samples accelerated the significant variations in the measured concentrations of Aβ1–40, Tau, and α-synuclein in plasma. Conclusion: According to these results, for clinical practice, it is suggested that blood samples be stored at room temperature for no longer than 4.5 h after blood draw until centrifugation for the assay of dementia biomarkers in plasma.
Creating Built Environments That Expand Active Transportation and Active Living Across the United States: A Policy Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Young Deborah R. , Cradock Angie L. , Eyler Amy A. , Fenton Mark , Pedroso Margo , Sallis James F. , Whitsel Laurie P. ,   On behalf of the American Heart Association Advocacy Coordinating Committee
Published: August 2020

Physical activity is vital for the health and well-being of youth and adults, although the prevalence of physical activity continues to be low. Promoting active transportation or human-powered transportation through policy, systems, and environmental change is one of the leading evidence-based strategies to increase physical activity regardless of age, income, racial/ethnic background, ability, or disability. Initiatives often require coordination across federal, state, and local agencies. To maximize the effectiveness of all types of interventions, it is imperative to establish strong and broad partnerships across professional disciplines, community members, and advocacy groups. Health organizations can play important roles in facilitating these partnerships. This policy statement provides recommendations and resources that can improve transportation systems, enhance land use design, and provide education to support policies and environments to promote active travel. The American Heart Association supports safe, equitable active transportation policies in communities across the country that incorporate consistent implementation evaluation. Ultimately, to promote large increases in active transportation, policies need to be created, enforced, and funded across multiple sectors in a coordinated and equitable fashion. Active transportation policies should operate at 3 levels: the macroscale of land use, the mesoscale of pedestrian and bicycle networks and infrastructure such as Complete Streets policies and Safe Routes to School initiatives, and the microscale of design interventions and placemaking such as building orientation and access, street furnishings, and safety and traffic calming measures. Health professionals and organizations are encouraged to become involved in advocating for active transportation policies at all levels of government.
Understanding the Complexity of Heart Failure Risk and Treatment in Black Patients
Authors: Nayak Aditi , Hicks Albert J. , Morris Alanna A.
Published: August 2020

Although care of patients with heart failure (HF) has improved in the past decade, important disparities in HF outcomes persist based on race/ethnicity. Age-adjusted HF-related cardiovascular disease death rates are higher for Black patients, particularly among young Black men and women whose rates of death are 2.6- and 2.97-fold higher, respectively, than White men and women. Similarly, the rate of HF hospitalization for Black men and women is nearly 2.5-fold higher when compared with Whites, with costs that are significantly higher in the first year after HF hospitalization. While the relative rate of HF hospitalization has improved for other race/ethnic minorities, the disparity in HF hospitalization between Black and White patients has not decreased during the last decade. Although access to care and socioeconomic status have been traditional explanations for the observed racial disparities in HF outcomes, contemporary data suggest that novel factors including genetic susceptibility as well as social determinants of health and implicit bias may play a larger role in health outcomes than previously appreciated. The purpose of this review is to describe the complex interplay of factors that influence racial disparities in HF incidence, prevalence, and disease severity, with a highlight on evolving knowledge that will impact the clinical care and address future research needs to improve HF disparities in Blacks.
ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2) in Cardiopulmonary Diseases
Authors: Sharma Ravindra K. , Stevens Bruce R. , Obukhov Alexander G. , Grant Maria B. , Oudit Gavin Y. , Li Qiuhong , Richards Elaine M. , Pepine Carl J. , Raizada Mohan K.
Published: August 2020

Discovery of ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) revealed that the renin-angiotensin system has 2 counterbalancing arms. ACE2 is a major player in the protective arm, highly expressed in lungs and gut with the ability to mitigate cardiopulmonary diseases such as inflammatory lung disease. ACE2 also exhibits activities involving gut microbiome, nutrition, and as a chaperone stabilizing the neutral amino acid transporter, B
0
AT1, in gut. But the current interest in ACE2 arises because it is the cell surface receptor for the novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, to infect host cells, similar to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. This suggests that ACE2 be considered harmful, however, because of its important other roles, it is paradoxically a potential therapeutic target for cardiopulmonary diseases, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. This review describes the discovery of ACE2, its physiological functions, and its place in the renin-angiotensin system. It illustrates new analyses of the structure of ACE2 that provides better understanding of its actions particularly in lung and gut, shedding of ACE2 by ADAM17 (a disintegrin and metallopeptidase domain 17 protein), and role of TMPRSS2 (transmembrane serine proteases 2) in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 entry into host cells. Cardiopulmonary diseases are associated with decreased ACE2 activity and the mitigation by increasing ACE2 activity along with its therapeutic relevance are addressed. Finally, the potential use of ACE2 as a treatment target in COVID-19, despite its role to allow viral entry into host cells, is suggested.
Effects of Collateral Status on Infarct Distribution Following Endovascular Therapy in Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke
Authors: Al-Dasuqi Khalid , Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Torres-Flores Gerardo A. , Strander Sumita M. , Nguyen Cindy Khanh , Peshwe Krithika U. , Kodali Sreeja , Silverman Andrew , Malhotra Ajay , Johnson Michele H. , Matouk Charles C. , Schindler Joseph L. , Sansing Lauren H. , Falcone Guido J. , Sheth Kevin N. , Petersen Nils H.
Published: August 2020

Background and Purpose:

We aim to examine effects of collateral status and post-thrombectomy reperfusion on final infarct distribution and early functional outcome in patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion ischemic stroke.

Methods:

Patients with large vessel occlusion who underwent endovascular intervention were included in this study. All patients had baseline computed tomography angiography and follow-up magnetic resonance imaging. Collateral status was graded according to the criteria proposed by Miteff et al and reperfusion was assessed using the modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) system. We applied a multivariate voxel-wise general linear model to correlate the distribution of final infarction with collateral status and degree of reperfusion. Early favorable outcome was defined as a discharge modified Rankin Scale score ≤2.

Results:

Of the 283 patients included, 129 (46%) had good, 97 (34%) had moderate, and 57 (20%) had poor collateral status. Successful reperfusion (mTICI 2b/3) was achieved in 206 (73%) patients. Poor collateral status was associated with infarction of middle cerebral artery border zones, whereas worse reperfusion (mTICI scores 0–2a) was associated with infarction of middle cerebral artery territory deep white matter tracts and the posterior limb of the internal capsule. In multivariate regression models, both mTICI (
P
<0.001) and collateral status (
P
<0.001) were among independent predictors of final infarct volumes. However, mTICI (
P
<0.001), but not collateral status (
P
=0.058), predicted favorable outcome at discharge.

Conclusions:

In this cohort of patients with large vessel occlusion stroke, both the collateral status and endovascular reperfusion were strongly associated with middle cerebral artery territory final infarct volumes. Our findings suggesting that baseline collateral status predominantly affected middle cerebral artery border zones infarction, whereas higher mTICI preserved deep white matter and internal capsule from infarction; may explain why reperfusion success—but not collateral status—was among the independent predictors of favorable outcome at discharge. Infarction of the lentiform nuclei was observed regardless of collateral status or reperfusion success.
Streamlined Poststroke Treatment Order Sets During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
Authors: Gioia Laura C. , Poppe Alexandre Y. , Laroche Roxanne , Dacier-Falque Tristan , Sévigny Isabelle , Daneault Nicole , Deschaintre Yan , Jacquin Grégory , Stapf Christian , Odier Celine
Published: August 2020

Background and Purpose:

Standard poststroke treatment monitoring protocols are made problematic during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic by the frequency of patient assessments, requiring repeated donning and doffing procedures in a short interval of time.

Methods:

A streamlined poststroke treatment protocol was developed to limit frequency of patient encounters while maximizing the yield of each encounter by grouping together different components of poststroke care into single bedside visits.

Results:

Streamlined order sets were developed late March 2020. During the first 6 weeks following implementation, 70 patients were admitted to a geographically defined designated warm COVID-19 unit with modified poststroke care order sets. Of these, 33 (47.1%) patients received acute reperfusion therapy. All but 3 patients evolved favorably with either stable or improving National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at 24 hours. In the 3 patients who experienced early neurological deterioration, none were found to be attributable to insufficient patient monitoring.

Conclusions:

Adapting preexisting poststroke care protocols may be necessary while the risk of COVID-19 infection remains high. We propose a streamlined approach to facilitate poststroke monitoring in patients with stroke with unknown COVID status.
Cephalaria kurdistanica (Caprifoliaceae), a new species from Kurdistan, west of Iran

Authors: MAROOFI HOSEIN , TABAD MOHAMMAD AREF , RASTEGAR AZAD
Published: August 2020

A new species, Cephalaria kurdistanica, from Chehel-Cheshmeh mountain, west of Iran, is here described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically related to C. microcephala Boiss., C. procera Fisch. & Avé-Lall., and C. kotschyi Boiss. & Hohen., but it differs in chiefly stem size, size and shape of capitula, the number of phyllaries, shape of upper part of phyllaries, calyx shape and indumentum, and size of bristles of receptacle. As well as detailed description, distribution map, conservation status and ecology of the new species are given.
Redescription of the serranid perchlet Chelidoperca pleurospilus (Günther, 1880)
Authors: MATSUNUMA MIZUKI , TASHIRO FUMIHITO
Published: August 2020

Chelidoperca pleurospilus (Günther, 1880) (Perciformes: Serranidae) is redescribed on the basis of the lectotype (designated herein) and 69 non-type specimens from the eastern Indian and western Pacific oceans, ranging from the Andaman Sea east to New Caledonia, and northwestern Australia north to Japan. Literature records of the species from the Red Sea and Madagascar are considered applicable to Chelidoperca occipitalis Kotthaus 1973. Chelidoperca pleurospilus is characterized by the following combination of characters: pectoral-fin rays 14–16 (modally 15); pored lateral-line scales 40–43 (43); scale rows in longitudinal series 42–47 (44); scale rows between lateral line and base of 6th dorsal-fin spine 4 (3 full-sized scales plus 1 half-sized); interorbital scales reaching mid-orbit level, not extending beyond anterior margin of orbit; scales on lower jaw ventral surface restricted to angular, not extending anteriorly onto dentary; posterior tip of upper caudal-fin lobe slightly elongate with rounded or pointed contour, that of lower lobe not elongate, with rounded or truncate contour; longitudinal row of ca. 5 dark, laterally elongate blotches (more-or-less continuous in small specimens <60 mm SL) along mid-body from behind head to caudal-fin base. The species is compared with its congeners, and morphological changes with growth in the former discussed in detail.
Dicamptus Szépligeti (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Ophioninae) from Vietnam
Authors: PHAM NHI THI , MATSUMOTO RIKIO , SHIMIZU SO
Published: August 2020

A new species of Darwin wasp of the genus Dicamptus Szépligeti (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Ophioninae), D. curvus Pham, Matsumoto & Shimizu sp. nov., is described on the basis of type specimen from Lai Chau Province, northwest Vietnam. The new species probably belongs to the giganteus species group and is easily distinguishable from the other species of the group by the smaller indices of fore wing AI and CI as well as the form of sclerites. Two species, D. cantoni Gauld & Mitchell and D. reticulatus (Cameron), are recorded for the first time from Vietnam; and additional distribution records for D. nigropictus (Matsumura) in Vietnam are provided. Through the present study, a total of four Dicamptus species have been recognized in Vietnam and illustrated.
Diffusive–Nondiffusive Flux Decompositions in Atmospheric Boundary Layers
Authors: Chor Tomas , McWilliams James C. , Chamecki Marcelo
Published: August 2020

Eddy diffusivity models are a common method to parameterize turbulent fluxes in the atmospheric sciences community. However, their inability to handle convective boundary layers leads to the addition of a nondiffusive flux component (usually called nonlocal) alongside the original diffusive term (usually called local). Both components are often modeled for convective conditions based on the shape of the eddy diffusivity profile for neutral conditions. This assumption of shape is traditionally employed due to the difficulty of estimating both components based on numerically simulated turbulent fluxes without any a priori assumptions. In this manuscript we propose a novel method to avoid this issue and estimate both components from numerical simulations without having to assume any a priori shape or scaling for either. Our approach is based on optimizing results from a modeling perspective and taking as much advantage as possible from the diffusive term, thus maximizing the eddy diffusivity. We use our method to diagnostically investigate four different large-eddy simulations spanning different stability regimes, which reveal that nondiffusive fluxes are important even when trying to minimize them. Furthermore, the calculated profiles for both diffusive and nondiffusive fluxes suggest that their shapes change with stability, which is an effect that is not included in most models currently in use. Finally, we use our results to discuss modeling approaches and identify opportunities for improving current models.
Statistical Relationship between Atmospheric Rivers and Extratropical Cyclones and Anticyclones
Authors: Guo Yanjuan , Shinoda Toshiaki , Guan Bin , Waliser Duane E. , Chang Edmund K. M.
Published: August 2020

Statistical relationships between atmospheric rivers (ARs) and extratropical cyclones and anticyclones are investigated on a global scale using objectively identified ARs, cyclones, and anticyclones during 1979–2014. Composites of circulation and moisture fields around the ARs show that a strong cyclone is located poleward and westward of the AR centroid, which confirms the close link between the AR and extratropical cyclone. In addition, a pronounced anticyclone is found to be located equatorward and eastward of the AR, whose presence together with the cyclone leads to strong horizontal pressure gradient that forces moisture to be transported along a narrow corridor within the warm sector of the cyclone. This anticyclone located toward the downstream equatorward side of the cyclone is found to be missing for cyclones not associated with ARs. These key features are robust in composites performed in different hemispheres, over different ocean basins, and with respect to different AR intensities. Furthermore, correlation analysis shows that the AR intensity is much better correlated with the pressure gradient between the cyclone and anticyclone than with the cyclone/anticyclone intensity alone, although stronger cyclones favor the occurrence of AR. The importance of the horizontal pressure gradient in the formation of the AR is also consistent with the fact that climatologically ARs are frequently found over the region between the polar lows and subtropical highs in all seasons.
Mesoscale Convective System Precipitation Characteristics over East Asia. Part I: Regional Differences and Seasonal Variations
Authors: Li Puxi , Moseley Christopher , Prein Andreas F. , Chen Haoming , Li Jian , Furtado Kalli , Zhou Tianjun
Published: August 2020

Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) play an important role in modulating the global water cycle and energy balance and frequently generate high-impact weather events. The majority of existing literature studying MCS activity over East Asia is based on specific case studies and more climatological investigations revealing the precipitation characteristics of MCSs over eastern China are keenly needed. In this study, we use an iterative rain cell tracking method to identify and track MCS precipitation during 2008–16 to investigate regional differences and seasonal variations of MCS precipitation characteristics. Our results show that the middle-to-lower reaches of the Yangtze River basin (YRB-ML) receive the largest amount and exhibit the most pronounced seasonal cycle of MCS precipitation in eastern China. MCS precipitation over YRB-ML can exceed 2.6 mm day−1 in June, contributing over 30.0% of April–July total rainfall. Particularly long-lived MCSs occur over the eastern periphery of the Tibetan Plateau (ETP), with 25% of MCSs over the ETP persisting for more than 18 h in spring. In addition, spring MCSs feature larger rainfall areas, longer durations, and faster propagation speeds. Summer MCSs have a higher precipitation intensity and a more pronounced diurnal cycle except for southeastern China, where MCSs have similar precipitation intensity in spring and summer. There is less MCS precipitation in autumn, but an MCS precipitation center over the ETP still persists. MCSs reach peak hourly rainfall intensities during the time of maximum growth (a few hours after genesis), reach their maximum size around 5 h after genesis, and start decaying thereafter.
Investigation of the Internal Tides in the Northwest Pacific Ocean Considering the Background Circulation and Stratification
Authors: Song Pengyang , Chen Xueen
Published: August 2020

A global ocean circulation and tide model with nonuniform resolution is used in this work to resolve the ocean circulation globally as well as mesoscale eddies and internal tides regionally. Focusing on the northwest Pacific Ocean (NWP, 0°–35°N, 105°–150°E), a realistic experiment is conducted to simulate internal tides considering the background circulation and stratification. To investigate the influence of a background field on the generation and propagation of internal tides, idealized cases with horizontally homogeneous stratification and zero surface fluxes are also implemented for comparison. By comparing the realistic cases with idealized ones, the astronomical tidal forcing is found to be the dominant factor influencing the internal tide conversion rate magnitude, whereas the stratification acts as a secondary factor. However, stratification deviations in different areas can lead to an error exceeding 30% in the local internal tide energy conversion rate, indicating the necessity of a realistic stratification setting for simulating the entire NWP. The background shear is found to refract propagating diurnal internal tides by changing the effective Coriolis frequencies and phase speeds, while the Doppler-shifting effect is remarkable for introducing biases to semidiurnal results. In addition, nonlinear baroclinic tide energy equations considering the background circulation and stratification are derived and diagnosed in this work. The mean flow–baroclinic tide interaction and nonlinear energy flux are the most significant nonlinear terms in the derived equations, and nonlinearity is estimated to contribute approximately 5% of the total internal tide energy in the greater Luzon Strait area.
Interaction of Jets and Submesoscale Dynamics Leads to Rapid Ocean Ventilation
Authors: Bachman Scott D. , Klocker Andreas
Published: August 2020

Ocean ventilation is the process by which climatically important tracers such as heat and carbon are exchanged between the atmosphere and ocean interior. In this paper a series of numerical simulations are used to study the interaction of submesoscales and a topographically steered jet in driving rapid ventilation. The ventilation is found to increase both as a function of wind stress and model resolution, with a submesoscale-resolving 1/120° model exhibiting the largest ventilation rate. The jet in this simulation is found to be persistently unstable to submesoscale instabilities, which are known to feature intense vertical circulations. The vertical tracer transport is found to scale as a function of the eddy kinetic energy and mean isopycnal slope, whose behaviors change as a function of the wind stress and due to the emergence of a strong potential vorticity gradient due to the lateral shear of the jet. These results highlight the importance of jet–submesoscale interaction as a bridge between the atmosphere and the ocean interior.
Impacts of the Phase Shift between Incident Radar Waves on the Polarization Variables from Ice Cloud Particles
Authors: Melnikov Valery
Published: August 2020

The impacts of the differential phase of incident radar waves (ψi) on measured differential reflectivity (ZDR), differential phase, and correlation coefficient from ice cloud particles are presented for radars employing simultaneous transmission and reception of orthogonally polarized waves (SHV radar design). The maximal values of ZDR and the differential phase upon scattering (δ) from ice particles are obtained as functions of ψi. It is shown that SHV δ from ice particles can exceed a dozen degrees whereas the intrinsic δ is of a few hundredths of a degree. In melting layers, the δ values from particles obeying the Rayleigh scattering law can be several degrees depending on ψi so that, to explain such δ values, an assumption of resonance scattering is not necessary. The phase δ affects the estimation of specific differential phase (KDP) in icy media and, therefore, the phase δ should be measured. The radar differential phase upon transmission ψt is a part of ψi and, therefore, affects the δ values. A radar capability to alter ψi by varying ψt could deliver additional information about scattering media.
The RELAMPAGO Lightning Mapping Array: Overview and Initial Comparison with the Geostationary Lightning Mapper
Authors: Lang Timothy J. , Ávila Eldo E. , Blakeslee Richard J. , Burchfield Jeff , Wingo Matthew , Bitzer Phillip M. , Carey Lawrence D. , Deierling Wiebke , Goodman Steven J. , Medina Bruno Lisboa , Melo Gregory , Pereyra Rodolfo G.
Published: August 2020

During November 2018–April 2019, an 11-station very high frequency (VHF) Lightning Mapping Array (LMA) was deployed to Córdoba Province, Argentina. The purpose of the LMA was validation of the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM), but the deployment was coordinated with two field campaigns. The LMA observed 2.9 million flashes (≥ five sources) during 163 days, and level-1 (VHF locations), level-2 (flashes classified), and level-3 (gridded products) datasets have been made public. The network’s performance allows scientifically useful analysis within 100 km when at least seven stations were active. Careful analysis beyond 100 km is also possible. The LMA dataset includes many examples of intense storms with extremely high flash rates (>1 s−1), electrical discharges in overshooting tops (OTs), as well as anomalously charged thunderstorms with low-altitude lightning. The modal flash altitude was 10 km, but many flashes occurred at very high altitude (15–20 km). There were also anomalous and stratiform flashes near 5–7 km in altitude. Most flashes were small (<50 km2 area). Comparisons with GLM on 14 and 20 December 2018 indicated that GLM most successfully detected larger flashes (i.e., more than 100 VHF sources), with detection efficiency (DE) up to 90%. However, GLM DE was reduced for flashes that were smaller or that occurred lower in the cloud (e.g., near 6-km altitude). GLM DE also was reduced during a period of OT electrical discharges. Overall, GLM DE was a strong function of thunderstorm evolution and the dominant characteristics of the lightning it produced.
The Amazonian Low-Level Jet and Its Connection to Convective Cloud Propagation and Evolution
Authors: Anselmo Evandro M. , Schumacher Courtney , Machado Luiz A. T.
Published: August 2020

We describe the existence of an Amazonian low-level jet (ALLJ) that can affect the propagation and life cycle of convective systems from the northeast coast of South America into central Amazonia. Horizontal winds from reanalysis were analyzed during March–April–May (MAM) of the two years (2014–15) of the GoAmazon2014/5 field campaign. Convective system tracking was performed using GOES-13 infrared imagery and classified into days with high and weak convective activity. The MAM average winds show a nocturnal enhancement of low-level winds starting near the coast in the early evening and reaching 1600 km inland by late morning. Mean 3-hourly wind speeds maximize at 9–10 m s−1 near 900 hPa, but individual days can have nighttime low-level winds exceeding 12 m s−1. Based on objective low-level wind criteria, the ALLJ is present 10%–40% of the time over the Amazon during MAM depending on the location and time of day. The evolution of the ALLJ across the Amazon impacts the frequency of occurrence of cloud clusters and the intensity of the moisture flux. In addition, the ALLJ is associated with the enhancement of northeasterly flow in the midtroposphere during active convective days, when vertical momentum transport may be occurring in the organized cloud clusters. During the weakly active convective period, the ALLJ is weaker near the coast but stronger across the central Amazon and appears to be linked more directly with the South American low-level jet.
Observations and Predictability of a High-Impact Narrow Cold-Frontal Rainband over Southern California on 2 February 2019
Authors: Cannon Forest , Oakley Nina S. , Hecht Chad W. , Michaelis Allison , Cordeira Jason M. , Kawzenuk Brian , Demirdjian Reuben , Weihs Rachel , Fish Meredith A. , Wilson Anna M. , Ralph F. Martin
Published: August 2020

Short-duration, high-intensity rainfall in Southern California, often associated with narrow cold-frontal rainbands (NCFR), threaten life and property. While the mechanisms that drive NCFRs are relatively well understood, their regional characteristics, specific contribution to precipitation hazards, and their predictability in the western United States have received little research attention relative to their impact. This manuscript presents observations of NCFR physical processes made during the Atmospheric River Reconnaissance field campaign on 2 February 2019 and investigates the predictability of the observed NCFR across spatiotemporal scales and forecast lead time. Dropsonde data collected along transects of an atmospheric river (AR) and its attendant cyclone during rapid cyclogenesis, and radiosonde observations during landfall 24 h later, are used to demonstrate that a configuration of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model skillfully reproduces the physical processes responsible for the development and maintenance of the impactful NCFR. Ensemble simulations provide quantitative uncertainty information on the representation of these features in numerical weather prediction and instill confidence in the utility of WRF as a forecast guidance tool for short- to medium-range prediction of mesoscale precipitation processes in landfalling ARs. This research incorporates novel data and methodologies to improve forecast guidance for NCFRs impacting Southern California. While this study focuses on a single event, the outlined approach to observing and predicting high-impact weather across a range of spatial and temporal scales will support regional water management and hazard mitigation, in general.
Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection in the Gulf: G-SCAD Registry
Authors: Daoulah Amin , Al-Faifi Salem M. , Alhamid Sameer , Youssef Ali A. , Alshehri Mohammed , Al-Murayeh Mushabab , Farghali Tarek , Maghrabi Mohamed , Balghith Mohammed , ElSayed Osama , Alasmari Abdulaziz , Arafat Amr A. , Elmahrouk Ahmed F. , Eldesoky Akram , Refaat Wael A. , Alshahrani Saif S. , Ghazi Abdulrahman M. , Al-Azizi Karim M. , Dahdouh Ziad , Lotfi Amir
Published: August 2020

Data on spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is based on European and North American registries. We assessed the prevalence, epidemiology, and outcomes of patients presenting with SCAD in Arab Gulf countries. Patients (n = 83) were diagnosed with SCAD based on angiographic and intravascular imaging whenever available. Thirty centers in 4 Arab Gulf countries (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain) were involved from January 2011 to December 2017. In-hospital (myocardial infarction [MI], percutaneous coronary intervention, ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation, cardiogenic shock, death, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator placement, dissection extension) and follow-up (MI, de novo SCAD, death, spontaneous superior mesenteric artery dissection) cardiac events were recorded. Median age was 44 (37-55) years, 42 (51%) were females and 28.5% were pregnancy-associated (21.4% were multiparous). Of the patients, 47% presented with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome, 49% with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction, 12% had left main involvement, 43% left anterior descending, 21.7% right coronary, 9.6% left circumflex, and 9.6% multivessel; 52% of the SCAD were type 1, 42% type 2, 3.6% type 3, and 2.4% multitype; 40% managed medically, 53% underwent percutaneous coronary intervention, 7% underwent coronary artery bypass grafting. Females were more likely than males to experience overall (in-hospital and follow-up) adverse cardiovascular events ( P = .029).
Undocumented Migrants As Homo Sacer: Cases From Botswana and South Africa
Authors: Maphosa France , Ntau Christopher
Published: August 2020

The concept of homo sacer originates from ancient Roman law under which an individual who committed a certain kind of crime was excluded from society and all his/her rights as a citizen were revoked. This paper uses a few selected cases reported in the media of Botswana and South Africa to demonstrate why undocumented migrants in the two countries fit Agamben’s description of homo sacer. While migrants in general, whether documented or undocumented, are targets of violence, exploitation and discrimination in these countries, undocumented migrants are particularly vulnerable because of their ‘illegal’ status. Although violence against undocumented migrants is not formally endorsed by the state, their description as a problem or a threat to society places them in a state of exception which is virtually outside the protection of the law.
Use of nanofiber in high-performance fluorinated elastomer – Processing, mechanical, electrical, swelling and morphology characteristics
Authors: Ornaghi Felipe Gustavo , Ornaghi Heitor Luiz , Gheller Jordão , Jacobi Marly Antônia Maldaner
Published: August 2020

Property optimization is essential in both industrial and academic research fields. In this study, novel fluorinated rubber composites were manufactured with carbon nanofibers and compared to a standard control formulation (with 30 phr carbon black) and with carbon nanotubes. Hybrid composites with carbon nanotubes and/or nanofibers and carbon black were also produced. Also, two processing conditions (internal mixing and co-processing using an internal mixer followed by a two-roll mill) were tested in terms of the overall mechanical, morphological, electrical, dynamic mechanical, and swelling responses of the rubber composites. The results suggested a synergistic effect for both nanofillers and provided reinforcement and electrical conductivity due to filler-polymer interactions and the formation of a percolation threshold, respectively. Carbon nanofibers are an alternative to replace carbon nanotubes due to their lower cost and they are easier to be chemically modified.
Measuring fibre orientation and predicting elastic properties of discontinuous long fibre thermoplastic composites
Authors: Belliveau Réjean , Léger Éric , Landry Benoit , LaPlante Gabriel
Published: August 2020

Elastic properties in critical areas of 3 D shells made from discontinuous long fibre (DLF) composites are difficult to determine via traditional methods, due to the heterogeneity of the material and the geometry of the part. In this paper, a method is proposed to predict the local modulus of DLF composites based on a micrograph of the polished edge of a specimen. The position and orientation of each fibre are extracted from the micrograph and used in conjunction with classical lamination theory to predict the elastic modulus. Fibre discontinuity is accounted for by including a correction factor based on the Cox formula for averaged elastic constants. Model predictions successfully matched the experimental tests results. In a previous study, material flow during compression moulding of recycled DLF panels led to anisotropic behaviour, which was hypothesized to be caused by chip alignment in the flow direction. By using the proposed method, chip alignment due to flow was confirmed and the anisotropy in the elastic modulus was accurately predicted.
Ethmoidal meningoencephalocele in a C57BL/6J mouse
Authors: Floyd Rebecca , Michel Adam O , Piersigilli Alessandra , Aronowitz Eric , Voss Henning U , Ricart Arbona Rodolfo J
Published: August 2020

An otherwise healthy two-month-old female C57BL/6J mouse presented with a left-sided head tilt. Differential diagnoses included idiopathic necrotizing arteritis, bacterial otitis media/interna ( Pasteurella pneumotropica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus sp., Mycoplasma pulmonis and Burkholderia gladioli), encephalitis, an abscess, neoplasia, a congenital malformation and an accidental or iatrogenic head trauma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large space-occupying right olfactory lobe intra-axial lesion with severe secondary left-sided subfalcine herniation. Following imaging, the animal was euthanized due to poor prognosis. Histopathologic examination revealed a unilateral, full-thickness bone defect at the base of the cribriform plate and nasal conchae dysplasia, resulting in the herniation of the olfactory bulb into the nasal cavity. There was also a left midline-shift of the frontal cortex and moderate catarrhal sinusitis in the left mandibular sinus. The MRI and histopathologic changes are consistent with a congenital malformation of the nasal cavity and frontal aspect of the skull known as an ethmoidal meningoencephalocele. Encephaloceles are rare abnormalities caused by herniation of contents of the brain through a defect in the skull which occur due to disruption of the neural tube closure at the level anterior neuropore or secondary to trauma, surgical complications, cleft palate or increased intracranial pressure. The etiology is incompletely understood but hypotheses include genetics, vitamin deficiency, teratogens, infectious agents and environmental factors. Ethmoidal encephaloceles have been reported in multiple species including humans but have not been reported previously in mice. There are multiple models for spontaneous and induced craniofacial malformation in mice, but none described for ethmoidal encephaloceles.
The Association Between Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Anxiety Sensitivity in a College Sample
Authors: Caulfield Nicole M. , Martin Rachel L. , Norr Aaron M. , Capron Daniel W.
Published: August 2020

Background/Objectives

One-half of all U.S. adults will experience at least one traumatic event, and of those, approximately 11% develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Despite efficacious treatments for PTSD, one-third of people diagnosed still express symptoms after treatment.Thus, it is important to identify underlying factors that may be associated with PTSD symptom clusters to improve treatment efficacy. One potential factor is anxiety sensitivity (AS), or “the fear of fear,” and includes three different subfactors: physical, cognitive, and social concerns, yet few studies have examined this association using the Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3.

Method

Participants included 65 undergraduate students from a Southeastern University who were elevated on anxiety sensitivity cognitive concerns and experienced at least one traumatic event. Participants completed measures of trauma exposure, anxiety sensitivity, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and suicidal ideation.

Results

Results revealed that AS physical symptoms had the most robust association with potential PTSD symptoms and individual PTSD symptom clusters with the exception of the avoidance and numbing cluster

Conclusions

These findings may help clarify the nature of the relationship between PTSD symptoms and AS using the most updated measure of AS (ASI-3).
Evaluating Population Coverage in a Regional Distributed Data Network: Implications for Electronic Health Record–Based Public Health Surveillance
Authors: Scott Kenneth A. , Bacon Emily , Kraus Emily McCormick , Steiner John F. , Budney Gregory , Bondy Jessica , McEwen L. Dean , Davidson Arthur J.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Electronic health records (EHRs) hold promise as a public health surveillance tool, but questions remain about how EHR patients compare with populations in health and demographic surveys. We compared population characteristics from a regional distributed data network (DDN), which securely and confidentially aggregates EHR data from multiple health care organizations in the same geographic region, with population characteristics from health and demographic surveys.

Methods

Ten health care organizations participating in a Colorado DDN contributed data for coverage estimation. We aggregated demographic and geographic data from 2017 for patients aged ≥18 residing in 7 counties. We used a cross-sectional design to compare DDN population size, by county, with the following survey-estimated populations: the county population, estimated by the American Community Survey (ACS); residents seeking any health care, estimated by the Colorado Health Access Survey; and residents seeking routine (eg, primary) health care, estimated by the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. We also compared data on the DDN and survey populations by sex, age group, race/ethnicity, and poverty level to assess surveillance system representativeness.

Results

The DDN population included 609 840 people in 7 counties, corresponding to 25% coverage of the general adult population. Population coverage ranged from 15% to 35% across counties. Demographic distributions generated by DDN and surveys were similar for many groups. Overall, the DDN and surveys assessing care-seeking populations had a higher proportion of women and older adults than the ACS population. The DDN included higher proportions of Hispanic people and people living in high-poverty neighborhoods compared with the surveys.

Conclusion

The DDN population is not a random sample of the regional adult population; it is influenced by health care use patterns and organizations participating in the DDN. Strengths and limitations of DDNs complement those of survey-based approaches. The regional DDN is a promising public health surveillance tool.
Susceptibility to Hepatitis A and B Virus Among Clients at a Syringe Services Program in Philadelphia, 2018
Authors: Figgatt Mary , Hildick-Smith Jack , Addish Eman , Coleman Jennie , Benitez José , Freeland Catherine , Alles Steven , Viner Kendra , Johnson Caroline , Kuncio Danica
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Although many people who use drugs meet criteria for vaccination against hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV), estimates of susceptibility (ie, lack of immunity) are not well established. This study sought to identify the prevalence of and characteristics associated with HAV and HBV susceptibility among people who use drugs attending an urban syringe services program.

Methods

We initiated this seroprevalence study in 2018 among 438 clients of a syringe services program who met study criteria, including provision of a blood specimen and a self-reported history of drug use. We assessed HAV and HBV susceptibility and infection via serological testing. We examined associations between participant characteristics and serology status by using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Of the initial 438 clients identified, 353 (80.6%) met study criteria. Of 352 participants with conclusive HAV test results, 48.6% (n = 171) were HAV susceptible; of 337 participants with conclusive HBV test results, 32.6% (n = 110) were HBV susceptible, 24.3% (n = 82) showed evidence of past or present HBV infection, and 43.0% (n = 145) had vaccine-derived immunity. Compared with participants born before 1970, participants born during 1980-1989 had 5.90 (95% CI, 2.42-14.40) times the odds of HAV susceptibility and 0.18 (95% CI, 0.06-0.53) times the odds of HBV susceptibility, and participants born during 1990-1999 had 6.31 (95% CI, 2.34-17.00) times the odds of HAV susceptibility. Decreased odds of HAV susceptibility were associated with homelessness (adjusted odds ratio = 0.48; 95% CI, 0.28-0.82).

Conclusion

Despite applicable HAV and HBV vaccination recommendations, substantial gaps exist in HAV and HBV susceptibility among a population of people who use drugs. These findings highlight the need for increased HAV and HBV vaccination efforts among people who use drugs.
What Does It Meme? A Qualitative Analysis of Adolescents’ Perceptions of Tobacco and Marijuana Messaging
Authors: Liu Jessica , McLaughlin Sheila , Lazaro Adrienne , Halpern-Felsher Bonnie
Published: August 2020

Objectives

With the increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes and legalization of recreational marijuana, messaging from websites and social media is shaping product perceptions and use. Quantitative research on the aesthetic appeal of these advertisements from the adolescent and young adult perspective is lacking. We evaluated (1) how adolescents and young adults perceived tobacco and marijuana messaging online and through social media platforms and (2) interactive behaviors related to these messages.

Methods

We interviewed 24 participants from the Tobacco Perceptions Study, a longitudinal study of adolescents’ and young adults’ (aged 17-21) tobacco-related perceptions and tobacco use. We collected qualitative data from October 2017 through February 2018, through individual semi-structured interviews, on participants’ experiences and interactions with online tobacco and marijuana advertisements and the advertisements’ appeal. Two analysts recorded, transcribed, and coded interviews.

Results

Themes that emerged from the interviews focused on the direct appeal of online messaging to adolescents and young adults; the value of trusting the source; the role of general attitudes and personal decision-making related to using tobacco and/or marijuana; the appeal of messaging that includes colors, interesting packaging, and appealing flavors; and the preference of messages communicated by young people and influencers rather than by industry.

Conclusion

These findings suggest the need for increased regulation of social media messaging and marketing of tobacco and marijuana, with a particular focus on regulating social media, paid influencers, and marketing that appeals to adolescents and young adults. The findings also suggest the importance of prevention programs addressing the role of social media in influencing the use of tobacco and marijuana.
Experimental study on dynamic thermal environment of passenger compartment based on thermal evaluation indexes
Authors: Zhang Liang , Qi Liangkui , Liu Jianhua , Wu Qingqing
Published: August 2020

In this article, the thermal environment and the human thermal comfort of car cabin under different driving states in summer were studied experimentally. The weighted predictive mean vote model and the weighted equivalent temperature model were used for calculation and compared with the experimental values. The experimental results show that the air temperature and relative humidity distribution in cabin are affected by the space position and driving state. The temperature of the cabin seat, which is affected by solar radiation and crew, in the heating stage is slightly higher than the air temperature, while the cooling rate in the cooling stage is much lower than the air temperature. The predictive mean vote model and the equivalent temperature model are basically consistent with the actual thermal comfort of human body under the idle and driving conditions with the change of time. The prediction accuracy of the two models under the idle condition is higher than that under the driving condition, and the overall prediction accuracy of the equivalent temperature model is higher than that of the predictive mean vote model.