bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Methodology for the Discrimination of Alpha Particles from Other Ions in Laser-Driven Proton-Boron Reactions Using CR-39 Detectors Coupled in a Thomson Parabola Spectrometer
Authors: Kantarelou Vasiliki , Velyhan Andriy , Tchórz Przemysław , Rosiński Marcin , Petringa Giada , Cirrone Giuseppe Antonio Pablo , Istokskaia Valeriia , Krása Josef , Krůs Miroslav , Picciotto Antonino , Margarone Daniele , Giuffrida Lorenzo , Pikuz Sergey
Published: February 2023

Solid-state nuclear track detectors (CR-39 type) are frequently used for the detection of ions accelerated by laser-plasma interaction because they are sensitive to each single particle. To the present day, CR-39 detectors are the main diagnostics in experiments focused on laser-driven proton-boron (p11B) fusion reactions to detect alpha particles, which are the main products of such a nuclear reaction, and to reconstruct their energy distribution. However, the acceleration of multispecies ions in the laser-generated plasma makes this spectroscopic method complex and often does not allow to unambiguously discriminate the alpha particles generated from p11B fusion events from the laser-driven ions. In this experimental work, performed at the PALS laser facility (600 J, 300 ps, laser intensity 1016 W/cm2), CR-39 detectors were used as main detectors for the angular distribution of the produced alpha particles during a p11B fusion dedicated experimental campaign. Additionally, a CR-39 detector was set inside a Thomson Parabola (TP) spectrometer with the aim to calibrate the CR-39 response for low energetic laser-driven ions originating from the plasma in the given experimental conditions. The detected ion energies were ranging from hundreds of keV to a few MeV, and the ion track diameters were measured for etching times up to 9 hours. The goal of the test was the evaluation of the detectors’ ability to discriminate the alpha particles from the aforementioned ions. Within this study, the calibration curves for protons and silicon low energy ions are accomplished, the overlapping of the proton tracks and alpha particles is verified, and a methodology to avoid this problem is realized.
Review on the Biogenesis of Platelets in Lungs and Its Alterations in SARS-CoV-2 Infection Patients
Authors: Nandhini Balasundaram , Sureshraj Yacobu , Kaviya Mohandass , Sangeetha Thangavelu , Bharathi Kathirvel , Balamuralikrishnan Balasubramanian , Manikantan Pappuswamy , Arun Meyyazhagan , Haripriya Kuchi Bhotla , Karthika Pushparaj , Kalidass Subramaniam , Anand Arumugam Vijaya
Published: February 2023

Thrombocytes (platelets) are the type of blood cells that are involved in hemostasis, thrombosis, etc. For the conversion of megakaryocytes into thrombocytes, the thrombopoietin (TPO) protein is essential which is encoded by the TPO gene. TPO gene is present in the long arm of chromosome number 3 (3q26). This TPO protein interacts with the c-Mpl receptor, which is present on the outer surface of megakaryocytes. As a result, megakaryocyte breaks into the production of functional thrombocytes. Some of the evidence shows that the megakaryocytes, the precursor of thrombocytes, are seen in the lung’s interstitium. This review focuses on the involvement of the lungs in the production of thrombocytes and their mechanism. A lot of findings show that viral diseases, which affect the lungs, cause thrombocytopenia in human beings. One of the notable viral diseases is COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by SARS-associated coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). SARS-CoV-2 caused a worldwide alarm in 2019 and a lot of people suffered because of this disease. It mainly targets the lung cells for its replication. To enter the cells, these virus targets the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptors that are abundantly seen on the surface of the lung cells. Recent reports of COVID-19-affected patients reveal the important fact that these peoples develop thrombocytopenia as a post-COVID condition. This review elaborates on the biogenesis of platelets in the lungs and the alterations of thrombocytes during the COVID-19 infection.
Gemstone Spectral CT Virtual Noncontrast Images and Iodine Maps for the Characterization of Thyroid Lesions and Distinguishing Thyroid Papillary Carcinoma from Nodular Goiter
Authors: Yao Chun , Chen Xiaofeng , Yang Zhiqi , Huang Ruibin , Zhang Sheng , Liao Yuting , Chen Xiangguang , Dai Zhuozhi
Published: February 2023

Background. Gemstone spectral contrast-enhanced CT with virtual noncontrast (VNC) images and iodine maps can potentially reduce the number of required CT scans for thyroid lesions. However, data regarding the clinical utility of VNC images and iodine maps in characterizing thyroid lesions and distinguishing thyroid papillary carcinoma from nodular goiter are still limited. Purpose. To determine whether VNC images and iodine density could reliably aid in characterizing thyroid lesions and distinguishing thyroid papillary carcinoma from nodular goiter compared with true noncontrast (TNC) images. Methods. This retrospective study included patients with thyroid papillary carcinoma or nodular goiter who underwent TNC and contrast-enhanced gemstone spectral CT scans. The consistency of qualitative parameters, including intralesional calcification, necrosis, lesion boundary, thyroid edge interruption, and lymph node metastasis, between TNC and VNC images, was analyzed using the kappa statistic. TNC attenuation, VNC attenuation, absolute attenuation between TNC and VNC, and iodine density were compared between thyroid papillary carcinoma and nodular goiter by using Student’s t-test. The diagnostic performance for distinguishing papillary carcinoma from nodular goiter was evaluated by using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) value, sensitivity, and specificity. Results. VNC and TNC imaging showed comparable performance in delineating calcification, necrosis, lesion boundary, thyroid edge interruption, and lymph node metastasis (all k > 0.75). Papillary carcinoma showed significantly lower absolute attenuation between VNC and TNC than nodular goiter (7.86 ± 6.74 vs. 13.43 ± 10.53,

P
=
0.026

), which was similarly observed for iodine density (31.45 ± 8.51 vs. 37.27 ± 10.34,

P
=
0.016

). The iodine density showed higher diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.727), accuracy (0.773 vs. 0.667), sensitivity (0.750 vs. 0.708), and specificity (0.786 vs. 0.643) than the absolute attenuation between TNC and VNC images (AUC = 0.683). Conclusions. VNC imaging, a promising substitute for TNC imaging, has comparable diagnostic efficacy for reliably characterizing thyroid lesions. Iodine density could be valuable for distinguishing thyroid papillary carcinoma from nodular goiter.
Firing-Associated Recycling of Coal-Fired Power Plant Fly Ash
Authors: Ngoc Minh Vu Thi , Pham Vuong-Hung , Tung Vu Hoang , Tung Cao Tho , Phuong Nguyen Thi Hong
Published: February 2023

Coal-fired power plant fly ash is a global environmental concern due to its small particle size, heavy metal content, and increased emissions. Although widely used in concrete, geopolymer, and fly ash brick production, a large amount of fly ash remains in storage sites or is used in landfills due to inadequate raw material quality, resulting in a waste of a recoverable resource. Therefore, the ongoing need is to develop new methods for recycling fly ash. The present review differentiates the physiochemical properties of fly ash from two coal combustion processes: fluidized bed combustion and pulverized coal combustion. It then discusses applications that can consume fly ash without strict chemical requirements, focusing on firing-associated methods. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of fly ash recycling are discussed.
3D Hollow Mg-Ca-Al Hydrotalcite-Like Compounds Doped with KF for Catalytic Transesterification
Authors: Xu Wei , Lei Yan , Zhang Mengting , Liu Xueping , Hu Lihua , Xiao Guomin , Gao Lijing
Published: February 2023

Herein, a kind of three-dimensional hollow Mg-Ca-Al hydrotalcite-like compounds (HTLCs) microsphere was prepared by self-assembly of hydrotalcite-like nanosheets. Mg-Ca-Al HTLCs microsphere (MS) has large specific surface area and large pore size, and the modification of KF·2H2O increases numerous alkaline active sites on the surface of the catalyst. The prepared catalyst has excellent catalytic effect for the production of biodiesel by transesterification. Under the optimal conditions of the catalyst addition amount which accounts for 2% of the weight of oil, the biodiesel yield of the best catalyst is as high as 92% within 30 minutes. This article also provides a paradigm of a rational structural design for regulating the morphology of HTLCs.
(R)-2-Hydroxyglutarate Inhibits KDM5 Histone Lysine Demethylases to Drive Transformation inIDH-Mutant Cancers
Authors: Gunn Kathryn , Myllykoski Matti , Cao John Z. , Ahmed Manna , Huang Bofu , Rouaisnel Betty , Diplas Bill H. , Levitt Michael M. , Looper Ryan , Doench John G. , Ligon Keith L. , Kornblum Harley I. , McBrayer Samuel K. , Yan Hai , Duy Cihangir , Godley Lucy A. , Koivunen Peppi , Losman Julie-Aurore
Published: February 2023

Oncogenic mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) and IDH2 occur in a wide range of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and glioma. Mutant IDH enzymes convert 2-oxoglutarate (2OG) to (R)-2-hydroxyglutarate [(R)-2HG], an oncometabolite that is hypothesized to promote cellular transformation by dysregulating 2OG-dependent enzymes. The only (R)-2HG target that has been convincingly shown to contribute to transformation by mutant IDH is the myeloid tumor suppressor TET2. However, there is ample evidence to suggest that (R)-2HG has other functionally relevant targets in IDH-mutant cancers. Here, we show that (R)-2HG inhibits KDM5 histone lysine demethylases and that this inhibition contributes to cellular transformation in IDH-mutant AML and IDH-mutant glioma. These studies provide the first evidence of a functional link between dysregulation of histone lysine methylation and transformation in IDH-mutant cancers.

Significance:

Mutant IDH is known to induce histone hypermethylation. However, it is not known if this hypermethylation is functionally significant or is a bystander effect of (R)-2HG accumulation in IDH-mutant cells. Here, we provide evidence that KDM5 inhibition by (R)-2HG contributes to mutant IDH–mediated transformation in AML and glioma.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1275
Pathologic Complete Response after Chemotherapy with Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab for Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Tumor Thrombus in the Main Portal Trunk
Authors: Kurisaki Ken , Soyama Akihiko , Hara Takanobu , Matsushima Hajime , Imamura Hajime , Tanaka Takayuki , Adachi Tomohiko , Ito Shinichiro , Kanetaka Kengo , Hidaka Masaaki , Okano Shinji , Eguchi Susumu
Published: February 2023

We report a case of pathologic complete response after successful treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) complicated with portal venous tumor thrombus with atezolizumab and bevacizumab followed by radical resection. The patient was a male in his 60s. During follow-up for chronic hepatitis B, abdominal ultrasonography revealed a huge tumor located in the right lobe of the liver with the portal vein thrombosed by the tumor. The tumor thrombus extended to the proximal side of the left branch of the portal vein. The patient’s tumor marker levels were elevated (alpha-phetoprotein, 14,696 ng/mL; PIVKA-II, 2,141 mAU/mL). Liver biopsy revealed poorly differentiated HCC. The lesion was categorized as advanced stage according to the BCLC staging system. As systemic therapy, atezolizumab plus bevacizumab was administered. Imaging showed marked shrinkage of the tumor and portal venous thrombus with a remarkable decrease of tumor marker levels after 2 courses of chemotherapy. After 3 additional courses of chemotherapy, radical resection was considered possible. The patient underwent right hemihepatectomy and portal venous thrombectomy. A pathological examination revealed a complete response. In conclusion, we experienced a case in which advanced HCC was curatively treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab, which was administered as systemic therapy with a view to conversion surgery.
Association between Serum Zinc Levels and Clinicopathological Characteristics in Patients with Gastric Cancer
Authors: Namikawa Tsutomu , Utsunomiya Masato , Yokota Keiichiro , Munekage Masaya , Uemura Sunao , Maeda Hiromichi , Kitagawa Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Michiya , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Although it was reported that serum zinc levels were lower in patients with various malignancies, serum zinc levels of patients with gastric cancer were not well documented. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the association between clinicopathologic features and serum zinc levels in preoperative patients with gastric cancer. Methods: The study enrolled 83 patients scheduled for gastric cancer surgery at the Kochi Medical School. Clinical data were obtained to investigate associations between clinicopathological features, including nutritional indicators and serum zinc levels. Serum zinc deficiency was defined as serum zinc level <80 μg/dL. Results: The median zinc level of the 83 patients was 73 μg/dL (range, 20–152 μg/dL), and serum zinc deficiency was present in 66.3% of patients. Albumin was significantly lower in the zinc low level group than in the normal group (3.9 g/dL vs. 4.4 g/dL, p < 0.001), and the median serum zinc level was significantly lower in the albumin <4.1 g/dL group than in the albumin ≥4.1 g/dL group (69 μg/dL vs. 82 μg/dL, p < 0.001). Lymphocyte count was significantly lower in the zinc low level group than in the normal group (1,500 vs. 1810 years, p = 0.041). The median serum zinc level was significantly lower in the age ≥74 group than in the age <74 (71 μg/dL vs. 76 μg/dL, p = 0.002). Serum zinc levels showed a significant positive correlation with serum albumin (r = 0.637, p = 0.009). Conclusion: Serum zinc deficiency was found in 66.3% of preoperative patients with gastric cancer, which was highly correlated with serum albumin.
Sliding mode control technique of step down converter using reaching law
Authors: Ningappa Sridhara Somaguddu , Basavarajan Siddesh Kondapur , Katappa Sudharashan Mungasavalli , Ramareddy Sandeep Velur , Basavarajappa Lavakumar Tavane , Sutikno Tole
Published: February 2023

The robust reaching law based sliding mode control is used for chattering suppression, minimization of steady state error and reaching speed kept minimized. With fine tuning of parameters of robust reaching law, the sliding mode reaches the equilibrium point at the earliest. The stability of the proposed reaching law is analyzed. In one hand, they guarantee the system reach the sliding face rapidly and stay on it, in another way they decline the chattering effectively, even unmatched certainties and disturbances. Such that the system response can better realize the unification of rapidity.
A proposed reaching law ia analyzed mathematically and applied to SMC DC-DC buck converter to lessen the chattering, because switching devices are existing in the model, it reduces effectively in the switching losses in the switching devices of the dc-dc converter. In turn effectiveness of the efficiency increases. MATLAB/Simulink results give significant decline of chattering and switching losses in the buck converter.
Evaluation of flexibility assessment indices upon flexible loading of thermal power plants with high penetration of renewables
Authors: Yanala Srikanth Reddy , Kumari Matam Sailaja , Maheswarapu Sydulu , Rao M. Mohana
Published: February 2023

In this paper, power system flexibility assessment indices evaluation has been carried out with high penetration of renewables in MATLAB environment, inspired from IRENA FlexTool. The parameters such as magnitude of energy mix, resources available, electricity tariffs and price affordability play a vital role in the proposed research. The developed program has been tested against IEEE 9 bus and IEEE 39 bus systems with and without time-series data and with and without high penetration of renewables. By closely matching the results for various test cases and time series evaluations for IEEE 9 and IEEE 39 bus systems, the developed program has been benchmarked with the IRENA FlexTool and the comparisons have been charted out.
Energy management system for AC/DC HMGS integrated with interconnected renewable sources and interlinking converter
Authors: Razzaq Syed Abdul , Jayasankar Vairavasamy
Published: February 2023

AC/DC hybrid micro grid system (HMGS) is designed with renewable energy sources (RES) and battery energy storage system (BESS) with unique control schemes, interfaced with multi terminal interlinking converters (ILCs). This ILC operates on droop control scheme to guarantee bidirectional power sharing to AC/DC sub grids. The power sources in AC/DC sub grids like PV, Fuel cell, BESS are controlled by advance control methods for maximum power extraction with power quality. A three-level control structure is designed for optimal energy management system (EMS). The first level confirms the power balance in AC/DC sub grid with autonomous bidirectional power transfer via ILC in islanded mode. The second level tracks the batteries state of charge (SoC), based on the minimum and maximum SoC the battery operates for charging and discharging. The third level gives the power redundant capability for critical loads connected in AC/DC sub grid for DC system and single-phase system.
Experimental investigations of 3.75 kW laboratory scale pico Kaplan hydraulic turbine
Authors: Lal Shiv , Meena Shanti Lal
Published: February 2023

Experimental investigations of 3.75 kW Pico Kaplan turbines have been carried out in this communication. The turbine is utilized for the experimental purpose for the students and it is procured under TEQIP-III project of World Bank. The load test of the turbine has been done which run at 50% capacity and presented the main and operating characteristic curves. It is observed that the efficiency of the turbine will improve at low speed, high brake power and high discharge. The discharge is also depending on the available head and the quantity of water. So, the turbine efficiency is also improved with respect to increasing the discharge.  At the increasing the specific speed the discharge will also be increased linearly. The Pico Kaplan turbine can be used for runways water likes in Canals, rivers and no dam is required. The basic design is very simple and it is very common because it has vast applications for small, pico and micro power generation. It can be used in lot of regions like Himachal, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Eastern State (Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Manipur), Punjab, Karnataka, Kerala, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Rajasthan states of India. This study will be useful for the researcher in the area of small hydro power plants.
Optimal capacitor allocation for minimizing cost of energy loss in active distribution network with different load levels
Authors: Myintzu Mya , Lin Kyaw Myo , Oo Khine Zin
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes an effective technique to allocate a shunt capacitor using a meta-heuristic optimization-approach for minimizing the cost of energy losses. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm incorporated with MATPOWER is trained for minimizing the targeted function of the optical capacitor placement problem. The 115-node active distribution network supplied by MESC in the Mandalay distribution area is applied as a scenario. The results including active power loss and system energy loss, size and location of the optimized capacitor, voltage profiles, and the cost of energy loss are attained and analyzed. The simulations results revealed that the optimal allocation of the capacitor provides a significant reduction in the cost of energy losses as well as improvement in voltage profile with compensation of reactive power.
Power supervision of an autonomous photovoltaic/wind turbine/battery system with MPPT using adaptative fuzzy logic controller
Authors: Rekioua Djamila , Bensmail Samia , Serir Chafiaa , Rekioua Toufik
Published: February 2023

In this work a power supervision of an autonomous photovoltaic/wind turbine/batteries system is presented. Measurements of weather conditions during different has been made. Due to the instantaneous changing of solar irradiance, temperature and wind speeds, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is integrated. Due to its ease of use, the perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm is the most preferred, but has a great disadvantage of oscillations at steady state. The adaptative fuzzy logic controller (AFLC) method is also widely used for its advantages of fast response with better performance than the classical FLC and P&O strategies. An accurate sizing methodology was applied in the proposed sizing approach to calculate the PV and wind turbine generators number. To manage the various powers, supervision method is simple, easy realization and not heavy computation. A simulation study under MATLAB/Simulink has been made. The different results are given and analyzed.
Prognostic Impact of Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction According to Different Patterns by Invasive Physiologic Indexes in Symptomatic Patients With Intermediate Coronary Stenosis
Authors: Hong David , Shin Doosup , Lee Seung Hun , Joh Hyun Sung , Choi Ki Hong , Kim Hyun Kuk , Ha Sang Jin , Park Taek Kyu , Yang Jeong Hoon , Song Young Bin , Hahn Joo-Yong , Choi Seung-Hyuk , Gwon Hyeon-Cheol , Lee Joo Myung
Published: February 2023

Background:

Coronary microvascular dysfunction is a clinically significant component of ischemic heart disease. There can be heterogenous patterns of coronary microvascular dysfunction defined by invasive physiologic indexes such as coronary flow reserve (CFR) and index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR). We sought to compare the prognosis of coronary microvascular dysfunction according to different patterns of CFR and IMR.

Methods:

The current study included 375 consecutive patients undergoing invasive physiologic assessment for suspected stable ischemic heart disease and intermediate but functionally nonsignificant epicardial stenosis (fractional flow reserve, >0.80). According to cutoff values of invasive physiologic indexes reflecting microcirculatory function (CFR, <2.5; IMR, ≥25), patients were classified into 4 groups: (1) preserved CFR and low IMR (group 1), (2) preserved CFR and elevated IMR (group 2), (3) depressed CFR and low IMR (group 3), and (4) depressed CFR and elevated IMR (group 4). Primary outcome was a composite of cardiovascular death or admission for heart failure during the follow-up time.

Results:

Cumulative incidence of the primary outcome was significantly different among the 4 groups (group 1, 20.1%; group 2, 18.8%; group 3, 33.9%; and group 4, 45.0%; overall
P
<0.001). Depressed CFR had significantly higher risk of primary outcome than preserved CFR in both low (hazard ratio [HR], 1.894 [95% CI, 1.112–3.225];
P
=0.019) and elevated IMR subgroups (HR, 3.307 [95% CI, 1.519–7.202];
P
=0.003). Conversely, the risk of primary outcome was not significantly different between elevated and low IMR in preserved CFR subgroups (HR, 0.926 [95% CI, 0.428–2.005];
P
=0.846). Furthermore, as continuous variables, IMR-adjusted CFR (adjusted HR, 0.644 [95% CI, 0.537–0.772];
P
<0.001) was significantly associated with the risk of primary outcome but CFR-adjusted IMR (adjusted HR, 1.004 [95% CI, 0.992–1.016];
P
=0.515) was not.

Conclusions:

Among patients with suspected stable ischemic heart disease who were found to have an intermediate but functionally nonsignificant epicardial stenosis, depressed CFR was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular death and admission for heart failure. However, elevated IMR alone with preserved CFR showed limited prognostic value in this population.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT05058833.
Declining Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death in Heart Failure: Fact or Myth?
Authors: Leyva Francisco , Israel Carsten W. , Singh Jagmeet
Published: February 2023

The notion that the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with heart failure (HF) is declining seems to be gaining traction. Numerous editorials and commentaries have suggested that SCD, specifically arrhythmic SCD, is no longer a significant risk for patients with HF on guideline-directed medical therapy. In this review, we question whether the risk of SCD has indeed declined in HF trials and in the real world. We also explore whether, despite relative risk reductions, the residual SCD risk after guideline-directed medical therapy still suggests a need for implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy. Among our arguments is that SCD has not decreased in HF trials, nor in the real world. Moreover, we argue that data from HF trials, which have not adhered to guideline-directed device therapy, do not obviate or justify delays to implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy. In this context, we underline the challenges of translating the findings of HF randomized, controlled trials of guideline-directed medical therapy to the real world. We also make the case for HF trials that adhere to current guideline-directed device therapy so that we can better understand the role of implantable cardioverter defibrillators in chronic HF.
Social Determinants, Blood Pressure Control, and Racial Inequities in Childbearing Age Women With Hypertension, 2001 to 2018
Authors: Meyerovitz Claire V. , Juraschek Stephen P. , Ayturk Didem , Moore Simas Tiffany A. , Person Sharina D. , Lemon Stephenie C. , McManus David D. , Kovell Lara C.
Published: February 2023

Background

Hypertension is an important modifiable risk factor of serious maternal morbidity and mortality. Social determinants of health (SDoH) influence hypertension outcomes and may contribute to racial and ethnic differences in hypertension control. Our objective was to assess SDoH and blood pressure (BP) control by race and ethnicity in US women of childbearing age with hypertension.

Methods and Results

We studied women (aged 20–50 years) with hypertension (systolic BP ≥140 mm Hg or diastolic BP ≥90 mm Hg or use of antihypertensive medication) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2001 to 2018. SDoH and BP control (systolic BP <140 mm Hg and diastolic BP <90 mm Hg) were examined by race and ethnicity (White race, Black race, Hispanic ethnicity, and Asian race). Using multivariable logistic regression, odds of uncontrolled BP by race and ethnicity were modeled, adjusting for SDoH, health factors, and modifiable health behaviors. Responses on hunger and affording food determined food insecurity status. Across women of childbearing age with hypertension (N=1293), 59.2% were White race, 23.4% were Black race, 15.8% were Hispanic ethnicity, and 1.7% were Asian race. More Hispanic and Black women experienced food insecurity than White women (32% and 25% versus 13%; both
P
<0.001). After SDoH, health factor, and modifiable health behavior adjustment, Black women maintained higher odds of uncontrolled BP than White women (odds ratio, 2.31 [95% CI, 1.08–4.92]), whereas Asian and Hispanic women showed no difference.

Conclusions

We identified racial inequities in uncontrolled BP and food insecurity among women of childbearing age with hypertension. Further exploration beyond the SDoH measured is needed to understand the inequity in hypertension control in Black women.
Hippocampal Vascular Supply and Its Role in Vascular Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Johnson Abbie C.
Published: February 2023

The incidence of age-related dementia is increasing as the world population ages and due to lack of effective treatments for dementia. Vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia are increasing as the prevalence of pathologies associated with cerebrovascular disease rise, including chronic hypertension, diabetes, and ischemic stroke. The hippocampus is a bilateral deep brain structure that is central to learning, memory, and cognitive function and highly susceptible to hypoxic/ischemic injury. Compared with cortical brain regions such as the somatosensory cortex, less is known about the function of the hippocampal vasculature that is critical in maintaining neurocognitive health. This review focuses on the hippocampal vascular supply, presenting what is known about hippocampal hemodynamics and blood-brain barrier function during health and disease, and discusses evidence that supports its contribution to vascular cognitive impairment and dementia. Understanding vascular-mediated hippocampal injury that contributes to memory dysfunction during healthy aging and cerebrovascular disease is essential to develop effective treatments to slow cognitive decline. The hippocampus and its vasculature may represent one such therapeutic target to mitigate the dementia epidemic.
Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction in Normal Aging and Neurodegeneration: Mechanisms, Impact, and Treatments
Authors: Andjelkovic Anuska V. , Situ Muyu , Citalan-Madrid Ali Francisco , Stamatovic Svetlana M. , Xiang Jianming , Keep Richard F.
Published: February 2023

Cerebral endothelial cells and their linking tight junctions form a unique, dynamic and multi-functional interface, the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The endothelium is regulated by perivascular cells and components forming the neurovascular unit. This review examines BBB and neurovascular unit changes in normal aging and in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly focusing on Alzheimer disease, cerebral amyloid angiopathy and vascular dementia. Increasing evidence indicates BBB dysfunction contributes to neurodegeneration. Mechanisms underlying BBB dysfunction are outlined (endothelium and neurovascular unit mediated) as is the BBB as a therapeutic target including increasing the uptake of systemically delivered therapeutics across the BBB, enhancing clearance of potential neurotoxic compounds via the BBB, and preventing BBB dysfunction. Finally, a need for novel biomarkers of BBB dysfunction is addressed.
Emerging Roles of Endothelial Nitric Oxide in Preservation of Cognitive Health
Authors: Katusic Zvonimir S. , d’Uscio Livius V. , He Tongrong
Published: February 2023

eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) is critically important enzyme responsible for regulation of cardiovascular homeostasis. Under physiological conditions, constitutive eNOS activity and production of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) exert essential neurovascular protective functions. In this review, we first discuss the roles of endothelial NO in prevention of neuronal amyloid accumulation and formation of neurofibrillary tangles, hallmarks of Alzheimer disease pathology. Next, we review existing evidence suggesting that NO released from endothelium prevents activation of microglia, stimulates glycolysis in astrocytes, and increases biogenesis of mitochondria. We also address major risk factors for cognitive impairment including aging and ApoE4 (apolipoprotein 4) genotype with focus on their detrimental effects on eNOS/NO signaling. Relevant to this review, recent studies suggested that aged eNOS heterozygous mice are unique model of spontaneous cerebral small vessel disease. In this regard, we review contribution of dysfunctional eNOS to deposition of Aβ (amyloid-β) into blood vessel wall leading to development of cerebral amyloid angiopathy. We conclude that endothelial dysfunction manifested by the loss of neurovascular protective functions of NO may significantly contribute to development of cognitive impairment.
Reperfusion Treatments in Disabling Versus Nondisabling Mild Stroke due to Anterior Circulation Vessel Occlusion
Authors: Schwarz Ghil , Cascio Rizzo Angelo , Matusevicius Marius , Giussani Giuditta , Invernizzi Paolo , Melis Fabio , Lesko Norbert , Toni Danilo , Agostoni Elio Clemente , Ahmed Niaz
Published: February 2023

Background:

The benefit of distinguishing between disabling versus nondisabling deficit in mild acute ischemic stroke due to endovascular thrombectomy-targetable vessel occlusion (EVT-tVO; including anterior circulation large and medium-vessel occlusion) is unknown. We compared safety and efficacy of acute reperfusion treatments in disabling versus nondisabling mild EVT-tVO.

Methods:

From the Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke-International Stroke Thrombolysis Register, we included consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients (2015–2021) treated within 4.5 hours, with full NIHSS items availability and score ≤5, evidence of intracranial internal carotid artery, M1, A1-2, or M2-3 occlusion. After propensity score matching, we compared efficacy (3-month modified Rankin Scale score of 0–1, modified Rankin Scale score of 0–2, and early neurological improvement) and safety (nonhemorrhagic early neurological deterioration, any intracerebral or subarachnoid hemorrhage, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and death at 3-month) outcomes in disabling versus nondisabling patients—adopting an available definition.

Results:

We included 1459 patients. Propensity score matched analysis of disabling versus nondisabling EVT-tVO (n=336 per group) found no significant differences in efficacy (modified Rankin Scale score 0–1: 67.4% versus 71.5%,
P
=0.336; modified Rankin Scale score 0–2: 77.1% versus 77.6%,
P
=0.895; early neurological improvement: 38.3% versus 44.4%,
P
=0.132) and safety (nonhemorrhagic early neurological deterioration: 8.5% versus 8.0%,
P
=0.830; any intracerebral hemorrhage or subarachnoid hemorrhage: 12.5% versus 13.3%,
P
=0.792; symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage: 2.6% versus 3.4%,
P
=0.598; and 3-month death: 9.8% versus 9.2%,
P
=0.844) outcomes.

Conclusions:

We found similar safety and efficacy outcomes after acute reperfusion treatment in disabling versus nondisabling mild EVT-tVO; our findings suggest to adopt similar acute treatment approaches in the 2 groups. Randomized data are needed to clarify the best reperfusion treatment in mild EVT-tVO.
Domain-Specific Outcome Measures in Clinical Trials of Therapies Promoting Stroke Recovery: A Suggested Blueprint
Authors: Cramer Steven C. , Lin David J. , Finklestein Seth P.
Published: February 2023

Different deficits recover to different degrees and with different time courses after stroke, indicating that plasticity differs across the brain’s neural systems after stroke. To capture these differences, domain-specific outcome measures have received increased attention. Such measures have potential advantages over global outcome scales, which combine recovery across many domains into a single score and so blur the ability to capture individual measures of stroke recovery. Use of a global end point to rate disability can overlook substantial recovery in specific domains, such as motor or language, and may not differentiate between good and poor recovery for specific neurological domains. In light of these points, a blueprint is proposed for using domain-specific outcome measures in stroke recovery trials. Key steps include selecting a domain in the context of preclinical data, picking a domain-specific clinical trial end point, anchoring inclusion criteria to this end point, scoring this end point both before and after treatment, and then pursuing regulatory approval on the basis of the domain-specific results. This blueprint is intended to foster clinical trials that, by using domain-specific end points, are able to demonstrate favorable results in clinical trials of therapies that promote stroke recovery.
Biophilic Institutions: Building New Solidarities between the Economy & Nature
Authors: Iskander Natasha , Lowe Nichola
Published: February 2023

Climate change and economic insecurity are the two most pressing challenges for modern humanity, and they are intimately linked: climate warming intensifies existing structural inequities, just as economic disparities worsen climate-induced suffering. Yet precisely because this economy-nature interrelationship is institutionalized, there exists an opening for alternative institutional configurations to take root. In this essay, we make the case for that institutional remaking to be biophilic, meaning it supports rather than undermines life and livelihood. This is not speculative thinking: biophilic institutions already exist in the here and now. Their existence provides an opportunity to learn how to remake institutions founded on solidarities of shared aliveness and a shared alliance with life that advance the premise that nature and the economy are not just intertwined but indistinguishable.
The second species of Sorellevania Engel, 2006 (Evanioidea: Evaniidae) from the mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber
Authors: JOUAULT CORENTIN
Published: February 2023

The representatives of the superfamily Evanioidea are easily distinguishable from all other extant and extinct Hymenoptera because of their metasoma (sometimes rounded) articulated high on the propodeum and well above the metacoxae (e.g., Goulet & Huber, 1993). Recent phylogenetic studies on the superfamily Evanioidea have shown strong support for its monophyly and for the monophyly of the Evaniidae even when fossil taxa are included (e.g., Li et al., 2018; Parslow et al., 2020; Jouault et al., 2022). According to the most recent analysis, the superfamily arose during either the Upper Triassic or the Lower Jurassic. Still, its earliest species are recorded in the younger Middle Jurassic, and its crown-group representatives during the Lower Cretaceous (Jouault et al., 2022: fig. 8). The stem Evaniidae are estimated to arise during the Upper Jurassic while their crown group has a more recent origin, likely around the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary. Extant evaniid wasps are common, nearly cosmopolitan, and moderately diversified (about 580 extant species in 21 genera) even if this diversity is underestimated (Deans, 2005; Mullins et al., 2012). Little is known about the biology of extant evaniids, but their larvae are considered predators of cockroach eggs in oothecae (Huben, 1995). The Evaniidae have a good fossil record with the oldest species known from the late Hauterivian, numerous species documented up to the Miocene, and an important diversity in Burmese amber (e.g., Rasnitsyn et al., 1998; Nel et al., 2002; Deans et al., 2004; Jennings et al., 2012; Shih et al., 2020). Nevertheless, their past diversity is still underestimated.
Description of Sphaleroptera orientana meridionalis subs. n. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Cnephasiini) from the Pale di San Martino Mountain plateau (Dolomites, NE Italy)
Authors: TIMOSSI GIOVANNI , RUZZIER ENRICO
Published: February 2023

On the base of newly collected material, a new subspecies of the alpine endemic moth Sphaleroptera orientana Whitebread, 2006 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from the Pale di San Martino Group (Dolomites, Northern Italy) is described. Morphological characters of the adults and DNA barcode suggests the presence of allopatric populations of S. orientana in the South-eastern Alps, attributable to two distinct subspecies: S. o. suborientana Whitebread, 2006 in the Catinaccio, the Sella, and the Fanes group, and Julian Alps, and S. o. meridionalis subs. nov. known from the Pale of San Martino group. The main biogeographic barrier is constituted by the complex of the Fiemme valleys—Val di Fassa—by the Pordoi Pass and by the Val Cordevole which from west to north to east separate the distribution area of S. o. suorientana from S.o. meridionalis.
Metriocnemus erythranthei sp. nov. and Limnophyes viribus sp. nov. (Diptera: Chironomidae: Orthocladiinae): leafminers of monkeyflowers, speedwells, and other herbaceous plants, with new observations on the ecology and habitats of other leaf-mining Chironomidae
Authors: EISEMAN CHARLES S. , NAMAYANDEH ARMIN , LINDEN JOHN VAN DER , PALMER MICHAEL W.
Published: February 2023

In this study, we describe Metriocnemus erythranthei sp. nov. and Limnophyes viribus sp. nov., leafminers of herbaceous wetland plants. The M. erythranthei larva is a true miner entering fresh leaves and excavating the tunnels, and the L. viribus larva inhabits vacated mines of M. erythranthei. M. erythranthei is widespread in North America, with collections from the Pacific coast to Pennsylvania, and L. viribus has been collected from Iowa and Oregon. We also describe the larva of a possible new species associated with these plants, which we refer to as Metriocnemus sp. “Oregon”. A key to the known larval stages of North American Metriocnemus is also provided.

Along with providing a detailed account of the mining ecology of these new species, we discuss additional observations of mostly Orthocladiinae midges associated with aquatic and terrestrial plants. These include documenting the rearing of Metriocnemus eurynotus (Holmgren, 1883) from larvae feeding on Impatiens (Balsaminaceae) cotyledons, initially as leafminers and later externally. Larvae of M. eurynotus also were found feeding within mines of M. erythranthei on Veronica (Plantaginaceae) and were collected along with M. erythranthei larvae on leaves of Petasites (Asteraceae).
Three new troglobitic species of Pseudochthonius Balzan, 1892 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from northeastern Brazil
Authors: PRADO GUILHERME C. , FERREIRA RODRIGO L.
Published: February 2023

Three new pseudoscorpion species, Pseudochthonius pali sp. nov., Pseudochthonius diamachi sp. nov., and Pseudochthonius koinopoliteia sp. nov., are herein described from caves of Bahia state, Brazil. They can be distinguished from congeners mainly by the absence of eyes or eyespots, chelal and cheliceral dentition, coxal chaetotaxy and body size. Some ecological remarks on each species, possible threats, recommendations for future research and a key to the Pseudochthonius species from Brazil are provided.
Innovations in Winter Storm Forecasting and Decision Support Services
Authors: Novak David R. , Perfater Sarah E. , Demuth Julie L. , Bieda Stephen W. , Carbin Gregory , Craven Jeffrey , Erickson Michael J. , Jeglum Matthew E. , Kastman Joshua , Nelson James A. , Rudack David E. , Staudenmaier Michael J. , Waldstreicher Jeff S.
Published: February 2023

Winter storms are disruptive to society and the economy, and they often cause significant injuries and deaths. Innovations in winter storm forecasting have occurred across the value chain over the past two decades, from physical understanding, to observations, to model forecasts, to postprocessing, to forecaster knowledge and interpretation, to products and services, and ultimately to decision support. These innovations enable more accurate and consistent forecasts, which are increasingly being translated into actionable information for decision-makers. This paper reviews the current state of winter storm forecasting in the context of the U.S. National Weather Service operations and describes a potential future state. Given predictability limitations, a key challenge of winter storm forecasting has been characterizing uncertainty and communicating the forecast in ways that are understandable and useful to decision-makers. To address this challenge, particular focus is placed on establishing a probabilistic framework, with probabilistic hazard information serving as a foundation for winter storm decision support services. The framework is guided by social science research to ensure effective communication of risk to meet users’ needs. Solutions to gaps impeding progress in winter storm forecasting are highlighted, including better understanding of mesoscale phenomenon, the need for better ensemble calibration, a rigorous and consistent database of observed impacts, and linking multiparameter probabilities (e.g., probability of intense snowfall rates at rush hour) with users’ information needs and decisions.
Delayed Response of the Onset of the Summer Monsoon over the Bay of Bengal to Land–Sea Thermal Contrast
Authors: Sun Weihao , Wu Guoxiong , Liu Yimin , Mao Jiangyu , Zhuang Moran , Liu Xiaolin
Published: February 2023

The mechanisms involved in the onset of the Bay of Bengal summer monsoon (BOBSM) were studied using reanalysis data and numerical model experiments. Results revealed that the weak meridional land–sea thermal contrast (LSTC) over the northern BOB in early spring enhances the lower-tropospheric easterly belt along 10°–15°N, which is unfavorable for the BOBSM onset. The BOBSM onset is driven by the cumulative impact of this LSTC along with the LSTC in the meridional direction across the equator and in the zonal direction across the tropics, together with air–sea interactions. While the LSTC intensifies over the northern BOB, a near-surface northward cross-equatorial flow develops south of India, inducing springtime zonal flow and surface sensible heating over the southern BOB and a pair of cyclones straddling the equator over the central Indian Ocean at 700 hPa. The zonal LSTC in the tropics generates near-surface cyclones over land and anticyclones over the sea. This induces a zonal SST warm pool around 10°N, which produces vertical westerly wind shear to the north and weakens the wintertime easterly aloft and the anticyclone to its north. As the cyclone over southern India develops eastward, the cyclone below 700 hPa develops northward over the eastern BOB in response to the enhancing tropical westerly and surface sensible heating. The wintertime anticyclonic belt and easterly belt split, and the southerly carries water vapor northward over the eastern BOB, heralding the onset of the BOBSM and presenting a delayed response to the springtime LSTC changes.
From Safety Net to Safety Trap: Informality and Telework During the Coronavirus Pandemic in Latin America
Authors: de los Santos Daniela , Fynn Inés
Published: February 2023

In Latin America, informality has historically operated as a safety net during economic crises, by absorbing unemployed workers and providing income. However, unlike past economic crises, the 2020 crisis unleashed by the outbreak of the new coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) is not only economic but has resulted from a health emergency that requires social distance and isolation. In this article we argue that, in the context of social distancing and confinement measures, informal work constitutes a safety trap instead of operating as a safety net. First, informality as an economic subsistence mechanism is limited given that working activities in the informal sector are less convertible to remote jobs. Second, even when telework may be a viable option, the home conditions of informal workers often hinder the feasibility of telework. In making this argument, we bring to bear a conceptualization of potential to telework which includes both occupational and household components, the latter an often-neglected piece of the telework puzzle. To evaluate our argument, we conduct a quantitative cross-country analysis of seven Latin American countries (Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay). The empirical analysis consists of a descriptive assessment of the potential to telework of informal workers.