bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Electromagnetic Method in the Detection of Buried Karst Groundwater in the North-South Archaic Uplift, Ningxia, China
Authors: Lian Sheng , Li Jingjie , Cao Fuxiang , Wei Qiang , Cheng Xuxue , Zhang Yibing
Published: December 2024

The North-South Archaic Uplift Karst Area, situated in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, exemplifies the presence of underground karst formations in northern China. This work utilizes the regional hydrogeological survey to carry out geophysical investigations. The objective is to examine the resistivity qualities of layers and formations in order to investigate the attributes of subterranean karst water. The results indicate the existence of karst groundwater within the carbonate fault zone, covered by Quaternary loess with a high resistance and Neogene mudstone with a low resistance. The resistivity of the fault zone is relatively lower compared to the surrounding carbonate rock. The core principle of this rule can be concisely stated as “detect regions of high resistance within regions of low resistance, and detect regions of low resistance within regions of high resistance.” The electrical characteristics of the subterranean karst formation greatly aid in identifying ideal locations for investigating karst groundwater.
Research on the Source Parameters and Scaling Relations of Earthquakes in Qinba Mountain and Its Adjacent Area
Authors: Zheng Y , Wang W D
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the source parameters were determined for 123 small to moderate size earthquakes (1.2 ≤ ML
≤ 4.5) occurred during 1997-2013 in Qinba Mountain and its adjacent area by using the digital seismic data recorded in Shaanxi seismic network. The scaling relations between seismic moment, stress drop, seismic radiated energy with seismic magnitude are determined, the relations between scaled energy Eg/M0
and seismic moment are analyzed. The results show that the seismic stress drop in this area approximately increases with the increase of seismic moment, but the seismic stress drop is generally low. The Zúñiga parameter ε is generally less than 1, indicating partial stress drop mechanism in the region and may be the activity of low strength mature faults. The seismic scaled energy in this area is relatively small, which may be the results of high dynamic friction force or insufficient estimation of seismic radiation energy.
Urban Road Underground Defects Detection Using the Resistivity Method with an Irregular Array
Authors: Jiulong Cheng , Zhongzhong Xu , Yuqi Zhang , Honpeng Zhao , Yangchun Han
Published: December 2024

While the resistivity method offers clear advantages for detecting underground defects beneath urban roads, the complex surface conditions of these roads preclude the deployment of regular arrays. This complexity significantly challenges conventional resistivity detection methods for underground defects. This study designed a high-density resistivity detection observation system adaptable to the deployment of irregular arrays along urban roads. This method obtains high-dimensional apparent resistivity data and employs Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for its dimensionality reduction. It introduces an improved position update method within the Chimpanzee Optimization Algorithm (ChOA), combined with Extreme Learning Machine (ELM), to propose a PCA-ChOA-ELM combination algorithm for inversion. This is then compared with BP (Back Propagation Neural Network), GABP (Genetic Algorithm optimized Back Propagation Neural Network), and ELM. To further test the PCA-ChOA-ELM resistivity inversion’s effectiveness in detecting underground defects beneath urban roads with an irregular array, a geological-geophysical model of underground defects was established. Numerical and physical experiments were combined to perform inversion imaging on models of underground defects, both with and without water. The research results show that the high-density resistivity method based on PCA-ChOA-ELM with an irregular array can adapt to the detection of underground defects under urban roads, can better reflect the electrical characteristics, location, and distribution of underground defects under urban roads, and achieve efficient and precise positioning of underground defects under urban roads.
Optimization Design of Node Seismometer Data Storage Based on STM32
Authors: Yang Lan , Shen Tong , Tan Mingjie , Ruan Bo , Leng Yangchun
Published: December 2024

The application of high-resolution analog-to-digital conversion devices in wireless seismic data acquisition equipment causes massive invalid noise and seismic signals to be generated during long-term seismic acquisition, and the subsequent processing of massive data will occupy a lot of system resources. To address the above issues, we employ the STM32F4 as the core to integrate an improved environmental dynamic threshold P-wave picking algorithm for continuous vibration data acquisition. During data storage, only the relevant vibration signals are preserved to minimize the storage of irrelevant data and enhance work efficiency. The research results indicate that embedding a vibration identification algorithm inside the microcontroller can quickly and effectively identify seismic data, filter out invalid noise signals, reduce data volume, and improve work efficiency.
Full-waveform Inversion of Noisy GPR Data in Frequency Domain Based on Quasi-Newtonian Algorithm
Authors: Li Hongjie , Yang Xiaopeng , Lanl Tian
Published: December 2024

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a non-destructive detection technology. Full-waveform inversion (FWI) of GPR data promise for the quantitative characterization of the earth’s shallow subsurface parameters, which is useful for the interpretation and subsurface mapping. In this paper, we present a full-waveform inversion target imaging framework for GPR. In the method, the singular value decomposition (SVD) and least squares (LS) methods are used to denoise the measured scattering field. Secondly, the contrast source inversion (CSI) method is improved by introducing the quasi-Newtonian algorithm. Theoretical analysis and practice show that the proposed method can improve the robustness and stability of the inversion, and finally achieve a result with lower contrast error.
The Morphological Features of the Qitianling Granitic Pluton: Constrains from Magnetotelluric Data in Southern Hunan
Authors: Zhou Keke , Liu Jianxin , Cao Li , Guo Rongwen , Liu Rong , Cao Chuanghua , Zou Guangjun
Published: December 2024

As one of the most important granites within southern Hunan, the Qitianling pluton controlled the formation and distribution of a series of polymetallic deposits, including Furong Sn deposit, Huangshaping Pb-Zn deposit, and Xintianling W-Mo deposit. Therefore, a further knowledge of morphological features of this pluton that can lead to a better understanding of development and evolution of deposits system of southern Hunan. In this study, we obtained the 3-D electrical resistivity model of the Qitianling pluton and its surrounding area based on 25 MT data, distinctly imaging the subsurface extent of this pluton. The results indicated that the Qitianling pluton exhibited an prominent high-resistance background (>1000 Ω.m), with a downward convexity extending to a depth of ∼ 5 km.
Full waveform inversion of surface wave based on instantaneous frequency
Authors: Zhang Da-zhou , Zhang Ming-cai , Ju Guang-Hong , Xiong Zhang-qiang , Xue Wu-jun
Published: December 2024

Surface wave has many advantages, such as low attenuation, high signal-to-noise ratio, strong anti-interference ability and dispersion characteristics in layered media. It is widely used in engineering measurement and nondestructive testing. However, the applicability and reliability of surface wave processing methods are severely restricted by velocity inversion or strong heterogeneity of the medium. To overcome these shortcomings, in recent years, scholars have studied full-wave inversion methods including data preprocessing, wave field forward, gradient calculation, and inversion optimization to avoid any assumptions about underground complexity. However, the classical waveform difference mismatch function is apt to fall into a local minimum, which leads to the non-convergence of inversion. At the same time, the existence of surface waves greatly increases the non-linearity of full waveform inversion. Even small perturbations, especially in the S wave velocity structure, can cause dispersion for uniform backgrounds. To overcome this difficulty, a mismatch function based on instantaneous frequency is proposed and the adjoint wave equation is derived. Taking a layered model as an example, the effectiveness of the method is verified.
Two dimensional forward simulation of magnetotelluric waves based on fourier neural network
Authors: Yang Sicheng , Guo Rongwen
Published: December 2024

Magnetotelluric method is a geophysical exploration technology with large detection depth, high efficiency and low cost. Its theory, method and data processing and interpretation technology are relatively mature, so it has been increasingly widely applied in many industries in recent years. Accurate and efficient forward modeling is the basis for magnetotelluric method to be developed. Machine learning is a popular research topic in many fields. It can be used to simulate magnetotelluric two-dimensional forward modeling accurately and quickly, and Fourier neural network is a typical deep learning network in machine learning. In theory, after inputting the training model set, we use Fourier neural network to conduct network training, and the purpose of two-dimensional magnetotelluric forward modeling can be achieved quickly by using the trained network. In this paper, two-dimensional magnetotelluric forward modeling will be conducted based on Fourier neural network, and the generated neural network will be tested to verify whether the constructed network fits the training model and whether its forward prediction results are accurate.
Transient current monitoring technique based on compound integral Rogowski coil
Authors: Shu Yang , Chen Zhongbin , Li Wei , Sun Jinghua , Zhang Houwen
Published: December 2024

With the continuous development of power systems, high-voltage switchgear’s safe and stable operation is essential. As one of the key parameters used to evaluate the performance of switchgear, it is of great significance to monitor the transient current accurately. Traditional current sensors find it difficult to meet the rapidly changing current monitoring requirements in high-voltage environments due to the magnetic saturation phenomenon, insufficient sampling frequency, and insufficient bandwidth. In this paper, for the limitations of traditional current sensors in the transient current monitoring of high-voltage switchgear, a new type of monitoring device based on a composite integral Rogowski coil is proposed, which elaborates the design principle of the device, the realization process, and its advantages in practical applications. It also verifies that the program can capture the transient as well as steady state currents of high-voltage switchgear in real time with high accuracy, through a combination of theoretical analysis and experimental verification.
Simulation methods for distribution network cyber-physical systems based on Matlab/Simulink
Authors: Luo Xinhao , Zhang Rui , Chen Qifang , Cui Jiafeng , Kang Xinran , Chen Hailei
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a MATLAB/Simulink-based simulation method for a distribution network cyber-physical system (CPS) to enhance risk analysis and dynamic process simulation. The study identifies limitations in existing CPS models, which often focus on large power grids and overlook the roles of control centers, data centers, and terminal device interactions in distribution networks. To address these gaps, the paper introduces a four-layer coupled simulation model comprising the physical layer, interaction layer, terminal layer, and application layer. This model refines the information flow process, enabling the application layer to observe and control the physical layer. The model’s effectiveness is validated using the IEEE 33-bus system, demonstrating its ability to simulate attack risk propagation and cascading failure evolution.
Lightweight global adaptive feature enhancement network for underwater object detection with sonar image
Authors: Li Dahua , Qu Dakai , Li Xuan , Li Lei , Gao Qiang , Yu Xiao
Published: December 2024

Sonar target detection is widely used in various underwater detection tasks. However, sonar images often lack target information and blurry features because of the interference of seabed environmental noise and complex background information. This poses significant challenges for sonar target detection tasks. A new lightweight Global Adaptive Feature Enhancement Network (GAFE-Net) is proposed to enhance the ability to acquire target information and effectively suppress background information. This network utilizes lightweight convolutional calculations and adaptive feature extraction blocks with global feature extraction capabilities to capture multi-scale semantic features of sonar images. Specifically, GhostConv is used to maintain local feature extraction capability while reducing computation complexity. The adaptive feature extraction block (C2FC) is employed to capture deep semantic features. The partial self-attention (PSA) mechanism is adopted to enhance the capability of focusing on targets. The Slim-neck is deployed for fusing multi-scale information. Validation on the public sonar image dataset URPC2021 shows that, compared to other advanced sonar target detection algorithms, the proposed method improves accuracy while maintaining low computational complexity, demonstrating excellent performance.
Dynamic reinforcement identification method for weak links in distribution network based on deep graph neural network
Authors: Jin Qiang , Zhang Yu , Li Hongjun , Shi Jinyue , Zhao Yuchen
Published: December 2024

Aiming at the insufficient recognition accuracy of weak points in the distribution network, a dynamic enhancement recognition method for weak nodes in the distribution network based on a deep graph neural network is proposed. It integrates the complex topology of the distribution network, automatically extracts key features, and accurately locates and reinforces weak links in real time. The results show that the recognition accuracy and system stability are significantly improved.
Staged optimization of distributed new energy multi-scale source network load storage system
Authors: Liu Cheng , Zhao Peng , Tang Zhaofeng , Tang Zhaoxuan
Published: December 2024

Renewable capacity drives the development of distributed new capacity systems, and its multi-scale characteristics challenge system optimization. Therefore, this article conducts a phased optimization study on the distributed new capacity multi-scale source grid load storage system, aiming to improve the overall operational efficiency and flexibility of the capacity system to meet the needs of capacity transformation and low-carbon development. An optimization model is developed and solved using a differential evolution algorithm to reduce capacity loss, improve output and capacity storage efficiency, increase revenue, and achieve efficient, stable, and sustainable operation of the system.
Simulation of obstacle avoidance planning based on improved RRTstar robotic arm
Authors: Zhang Hongrui , Ge Hailong , Li Jin , Sun Jiabin , Dong Xuefu
Published: December 2024

An obstacle avoidance pathfinding strategy with an augmented RRT* algorithm was presented for the robotic arm’s operation. A simulation model of the robotic arm was created. The Monte Carlo method was employed to solve its workspace. To mitigate the weaknesses of the RRT* algorithm, such as slow convergence and poor orientation, the algorithm was improved by combining gravitational and repulsive force fields from the artificial potential field method with a dynamic step size strategy. Simulation experiments were carried out using MATLAB. The results showed that the revised algorithm lessened the path search time by 52.1% and the path search length by 9.1% as opposed to the original RRT* algorithm. The experiments were verified in the ROS backdrop. The proposed algorithm was found to be more advantageous for robotic arm obstacle avoidance.
Road cooling in tropical environments: microclimate modelling of pavement cooling scenarios using ENVI-met
Authors: Nurrahma Sa’ida , Rahman Taqia
Published: December 2024

Urban Heat Islands (UHIs) have exacerbated temperature differences between cities and their surrounding areas, leading to heightened heat-related challenges such as reduced thermal comfort, health issues, increased building energy consumption, and environmental degradation. Considering that road and parking pavement typically occupy 30% of urban areas, exploring cooling technologies for this infrastructure is imperative. This study uses ENVI-met microclimate modelling software to evaluate the impact of pavement surface albedo on temperatures and thermal comfort in a tropical urban area. The model, validated against microclimate data, explored cooling scenarios using cool pavement technologies such as light-coloured aggregate, white-topping, super heat reflective coating, and passive radiative cooling coating, compared with uncoated black asphalt. Higher albedo values were found to reduce surface and air temperatures but increase Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET), indicating reduced thermal comfort. An albedo increases from 0.06 to 0.8 can reduce surface temperature by up to 25.3°C and air temperature by up to 3°C. The increase in PET is likely due to reflected radiation being absorbed by road users and nearby buildings. This highlights the need for retro-reflective coatings to mitigate local heating effects. In this study, strategies to mitigate UHIs were proposed. While super-reflective coatings are effective in reducing temperatures, they may decrease thermal comfort due to higher PET values. However, this negative impact can potentially be mitigated using retro-reflective technologies.
The Behavior of Pile Foundation in Liquefiable and non-Liquefiable Soil Layers Considering Soil-Pile-Structure Interaction
Authors: Simatupang Minson , Mustika Wayan , Talanipa Romy , Basri Bayu Faturrahman , Santila
Published: December 2024

Liquefaction has emerged as a primary cause of damage to civil engineering structures in seismically active places. Deep foundation damage from liquefaction can be quite damaging. The seismic behavior of pile foundations immersed in the earth under seismic loads is presented in this work. Bending moments, shear forces, and lateral displacements along the pile’s depth before and after liquefaction have been compared. The soil, pile, and structure interaction was analyzed using SAP2000 finite element (FE) software. The inertial load from superstructure vibrations on piles embedded in the soil layer was calculated using three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) modeling. The study examined the effects of multiple factors on the pile response, including the seismic parameters and soil conditions around the pile. According to the research findings, in proportion to the increase in seismic parameters and the transition from non-liquefaction to liquefaction of the surrounding soil, piles experience an increase in internal forces.
Evaluation of Bogor Station area based on Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles
Authors: Pradana Muhammad Zaki , Sutoyo  , Sudibyo Tri , Pasupunuri Sampath Kumar
Published: December 2024

Modern urban transportation requires modern approach in its planning for sustainability. Bogor Station is one of the mobility centres in Bogor City, supported by land use for trade, business services, government, and education, making it suitable for transit-oriented development (TOD). TOD is an urban development approach that has been widely recognised to emphasises on sustainability. The TOD Standard scoring system by Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) consists of eight principles of walk, cycling, connect, transit, mix, densify, compact and shift. With the help of Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis method as a novel approach in this study, the standard has been successfully applied to classify the study area in the TOD ratings. The study started with georeferencing the study location, digitization process to transform the analog into digital spatial data, and network analysis of the obtained data based on TOD Standard principles. The study scores obtained from each principle are 6, 1, 6, fulfil prerequisite, 18, 0, 10, and 15 points respectively; with a total score of 56 points resulting in a bronze standard rating. Improvement recommendations to raise the rating to silver standard include improving pedestrian and cycling facilities, increasing the number of pedestrian-friendly intersections, and reducing off-street parking.
Defect-induced doping and chemisorption of O2 in Se deficient GaSe monolayers
Authors: Bradford Jonathan , Rahman Kazi , Felton James , Cheng Tin S , Shiffa Mustaqeem , Beton Peter H , Saywell Alex , Greenaway Mark T , Novikov Sergei V , O’Shea James N , Patanè Amalia
Published: December 2024

Owing to their atomically thin nature, structural defects in two-dimensional materials often play a dominating role in their electronic and optical properties. Here, we grow epitaxial GaSe monolayers on graphene/SiC by molecular beam epitaxy and characterise the layers by in situ scanning tunnelling microscopy and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy extracted from k-resolved photoemission electron microscopy mapping. We identify an electric dipole at the GaSe/graphene interface, with electrons accumulating on the GaSe, that cannot be compensated by p-type doping through the creation of defects formed by annealing in ultrahigh vacuum. Additionally, we demonstrate that both as-grown and defective GaSe layers are remarkably resilient to oxidation in a pure O2 environment, and chemisorption of O2 molecules on the surface can effectively electronically neutralise the doping in the layer. This work demonstrates the robust interlayer interaction in the GaSe/graphene van der Waals heterostructure and the role of defects on the doping for nanoelectronics.
Design and simulation of a simple greenhouse solar dryer and peltier thermoelectric module under independent and combined operating conditions
Authors: GokulRaj A , Padma S , Mohan R
Published: December 2024

India is a suitable country for cultivating several food produce, and most of them are seasonal. To make the food produce available in off seasons and to increase their shelf life there is vital need for food processing. Rapid urbanization has imposed a great demand for food due to very less availability of fresh food produce. There is a huge wastage in the food produce as the cultivation land is located far from the end user and time delay due to transportation. There are several food processing methods of which dehydration and cooling play a major role. A simple solar greenhouse dryer and Peltier thermoelectric cooling was designed and studied using COMSOL and EJS tool. The performance study integrating both systems was analysed and reported. The models were considered to work solely on solar energy. Solar thermal energy for dehydration and solar photo voltaic for operating the Peltier device. Studies on performance of the designed systems were carried out along with scope for performance improvement. The simulation studies revealed a 1.439 °C increase in drying chamber temperature by integrating the heat parameter of the Peltier thermoelectric cooler. At 40 K temperature difference the Peltier thermo electric module attained optimal performance. From the analysis using EJS tool, the maximum and average air temperatures inside the dryer were found to be 65 °C and 57 °C, the COP and cooling capacity of the Peltier thermoelectric model were high at 800 W/m2 solar radiation.
Consequences of
the theory of special relativity 1
Authors: Vishveshwara Smitha , Vishveshwara C V
Published: December 2024

Sample
The meaning behind the great “psi” (ψ)
Authors: Vishveshwara Smitha , Vishveshwara C V
Published: December 2024

Sample
The evolving universe
Authors: Vishveshwara Smitha , Vishveshwara C V
Published: December 2024

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Black holes and gravitational radiation: A personal background
Authors: Vishveshwara Smitha , Vishveshwara C V
Published: December 2024

Sample
Topological matter
Authors: Vishveshwara Smitha , Vishveshwara C V
Published: December 2024

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Occupational infections in brickmakers: a neglected public health concern
Authors: Barajas-Ochoa Aldo
Published: December 2024

Recent studies highlight brickmaking’s environmental and biological impacts, ranging from environmental pollution to toxic exposures in brickmakers and residents of neighboring areas. However, the risk of infections associated with brickmaking is widely understudied. In low- and middle-income countries worldwide, the brickmaking industry often belongs to the informal labor sector. Many of the millions of individuals in the industry belong to disenfranchised groups affected by adverse determinants of health. Manual brickmaking is precarious and exposes workers to infectious risks, yet this field remains understudied. This manuscript aims to raise awareness of these infectious risks and calls for comprehensive research to understand and mitigate them.
Angiogenin-catalyzed cleavage within tRNA anticodon-loops identified by cP-RNA-seq
Authors: Shigematsu Megumi , Matsubara Ryuma , Gumas Justin , Kawamura Takuya , Kirino Yohei
Published: December 2024

Angiogenin (Ang), an endoribonuclease belonging to the RNase A superfamily, cleaves the anticodon-loops of tRNAs to produce tRNA-half molecules. Although previous studies have demonstrated the involvement of Ang in the pathobiology of neurodegenerative disorders, the characterization of Ang-generated tRNA halves in neuronal cells remains limited. This is partly due to the technical limitations of standard RNA-seq methods, which cannot capture Ang-generated RNAs containing a 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate (cP). In this report, we established an Ang-treatment model using SH-SY5Y, a human neuroblastoma cell line, and demonstrated Ang-dependent accumulation of tRNA halves. By performing cP-RNA-seq, which selectively captures cP-containing RNAs, we identified Ang-generated tRNA halves and the specific cleavage positions within tRNA anticodon-loops responsible for their generation. Our results provide insights into the anticodon-loop cleavage and the selective production of a specific subset of tRNA halves by Ang.
Experimental induction of anti-muscarinic type-3-receptor extracellular loop antibodies by immunization with 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal modified Ro60 and unmodified Ro60
Authors: Kurien Biji T , Dave Devavrat , Tsaliki Martha , Quadri Syed M S , Lewis Valerie M , Scofield Robert Hal
Published: December 2024

Objective

Sjögren’s Disease (SjD) subjects have decreased lacrimal/salivary gland function. Studies have proposed that autoantibodies targeting G-protein-coupled muscarinic acetylcholine-type-3-receptor (M3R) are potential clinical markers for SjD. We hypothesized that rabbits/mice immunized with 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE)-modified/unmodified Ro60 will develop an autoimmunity, specifically a SjD phenotype, thus expressing increased levels of anti-M3R antibodies.

Methods

We immunized two rabbits each with 10 mM HNE-modified Ro60/unmodified Ro60 antigen or Ro274-290/Ro413-428/Ro500-517 Ro60 peptides. Two rabbits each were immunized with either M3R second extracellular loop (ECL2) or M3R ECL3 peptide. Finally, five groups of BALB/c mice were immunized as follows—Group-I immunized with Ro60, Groups-II—IV immunized with Ro60 modified with 0.4 mM (low), 2 mM (medium), and 10 mM (high) HNE, respectively and Group-V—Freund’s adjuvant. Serum antibodies to M3R ECL2/ECL3/Ro60/La or Sm were detected by ELISA. Functional assays were also performed.

Results

Immunization with HNE-modified Ro60/unmodified Ro60 antigen or Ro274/Ro 413/Ro500 peptides induced a rapid intermolecular epitope spreading to M3R ECL2/ECL3, especially to M3R ECL3 in HNE-Ro immunized rabbits. These animals did not bind to scrambled M3R peptides. Ro60-immunized rabbit IgG inhibited M3R activity in a functional assay. Rabbits immunized with ECL2/ECL3 developed high reactivity to Ro60 but not against Sm/RNP. We found a differential antibody-induction against M3R ECL2 with Group-3 mice developing significant reactivity.

Conclusion

Our data show induction of increasing anti-M3R antibodies in rabbits immunized with Ro60/HNE-Ro60 or Ro60 peptides and differential induction of these antibodies in mice immunized with Ro60 modified with increasing HNE. These findings suggest that M3R ECL2/ECL3 are involved in SjD autoimmunity progression.
Olfactory function is reduced in a subset of former elite American football players with traumatic encephalopathy syndrome
Authors: Braunecker Ben J , Groh Jenna R , Adler Charles H , Alosco Michael L , Dodick David W , Tripodis Yorghos , Balcer Laura J , Bernick Charles , Banks Sarah J , Barr William B , Wethe Jennifer V , Palmisano Joseph N , Martin Brett , Hartlage Kaitlin , Cantu Robert C , Geda Yonas E , Katz Douglas I , Mez Jesse , Cummings Jeffery L , Shenton Martha E , Reiman Eric M , Stern Robert A
Published: December 2024

Former American football players are at risk for developing traumatic encephalopathy syndrome (TES), the clinical disorder associated with neuropathologically diagnosed chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The objective of this study was to determine whether hyposmia is present in traumatic encephalopathy syndrome. The study included 119 former professional American football players, 60 former college football players, and 58 same-age asymptomatic unexposed men from the DIAGNOSE CTE Research Project. All subjects included in the analysis had completed the Brief Smell Identification Test (B-SIT). Traumatic encephalopathy syndrome and the level of CTE certainty were diagnosed using the 2021 NINDS consensus diagnostic criteria. TES is categorized antemortem by provisional levels of increasing CTE certainty: Suggestive, Possible, and Probable. Former players who had traumatic encephalopathy syndrome and Probable CTE had lower B-SIT scores than those with TES and Suggestive CTE. Hyposmia was more likely in the former players with TES who were either CTE Possible or Probable than in those who did not have TES or had TES but were less likely to have CTE, or CTE Suggestive. There was no difference in B-SIT scores between all former players versus unexposed men nor overall between the football players with and without TES. We conclude that lower B-SIT scores may be a clinical biomarker for underlying CTE in former American football players.
The Effects of Prescribed Medications on Depressive Symptoms and Neurocognitive Performance in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Authors: Kamkwalala Asante R , Matthews Avery , Garg Ankita , Roy Upal , Ma Qing , Karris Maile , Sundermann Erin , Ellis Ronald J , Riggs Patricia K , Trunfio Mattia , Blanchard Jennifer , Moore David J , Rubin Leah H , Letendre Scott L
Published: December 2024

Background

Alterations in brain function and structure, such as depression and neurocognitive impairment, continue to occur in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, PWH) taking suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART). The lifespan of PWH has improved but the healthspan remains worse than people without HIV, in part because of aging-related diseases. As a result, polypharmacy is common and increases the risk of drug-drug interactions and adverse reactions.

Methods

This cross-sectional project investigated the relationship between 7 medication-related metrics (including anticholinergic burden), depressive symptoms, and neurocognitive performance in 491 PWH at a single center in the United States. All participants were taking ART and had plasma HIV RNA ≤ 200 copies/mL.

Results

Participants had taken ART for a mean of 6.5 years, and most (57.6%) had CD4+ T-cells >500/µL. All 7 medication-related metrics were associated with worse global neurocognitive performance (P value <.0001 to .0087). Multivariable models confirmed that higher anticholinergic burden (P = .040) and use of benzodiazepines (P = .033), antidepressants (P = .0011), and more total medications (P = .059) were associated with more depressive symptoms (model P < .0001). Use of benzodiazepines (P = .0024) and opiates (P = .043) along with higher anticholinergic burden (P = .066) were also associated with worse neurocognitive performance. Benzodiazepine use was associated with worse performance in all domains and opiate use was associated with worse performance in processing speed, motor function, executive function, and working memory.

Conclusions

Use of benzodiazepines, opiates, and anticholinergic drugs contribute to cognitive and mood disorders in PWH. When possible, modifying or deprescribing medications may be beneficial.
Toward Evidence-based Recommendations for Laboratory Monitoring for Adolescents and Adults on Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Burman William J , Hawkins Kellie L
Published: December 2024

We reviewed prominent national and international guidelines to compare recommendations for laboratory monitoring for persons on antiretroviral therapy. The United States Department of Health and Human Services guidelines recommend more frequent CD4 count, viral load, hematologic, renal, and liver tests than other guidelines. To evaluate the evidence base for these recommendations, we reviewed phase 3 trials of currently recommended antiretroviral regimens and large cohort studies. Cohort studies have consistently shown that persons with sustained viral suppression have stable or increasing CD cell counts, so it is not clear how continued CD4 count monitoring contributes to clinical care. Long-term safety data from trials and observational cohorts show little evidence to support hematologic, hepatic, or renal monitoring (apart from persons on tenofovir disoproxil fumarate). It is time to use the available data from clinical trials and cohort studies to develop evidence-based recommendations for laboratory monitoring tests for persons with viral suppression.
Leases as Subdivisions of Land: A Comparative Analysis of Singapore, New South Wales, and British Columbia
Authors: Ti Seng Wei Edward , Peh Pearlie
Published: December 2024

A lease is created by carving out a smaller estate from a larger estate, while a subdivision of land is often synonymous with a physical partition. However, where the term of a lease exceeds certain statutorily prescribed periods of time, the demise may amount to a subdivision of land, even without physical partitioning or tangible changes to the land. This article seeks primarily to clarify doubts surrounding when temporal subdivision of this nature occurs, given the amendments to the Land Titles Act 1993 following the Singapore Court of Appeal’s pronouncements in Golden Village Multiplex Pte Ltd v Marina Centre Holdings Pte. This involves an analysis of matters cutting across property law principles, land registration, and planning law. Additionally, this article compares the subdivision framework in New South Wales, Australia, and British Columbia, Canada, with Singapore, exploring how the compared jurisdictions treat the underlying lease where there is a lack of subdivision permission in situations so requiring.
Cardioprotective effect of 19,20-epoxydocosapentaenoic acid (19,20-EDP) in ischaemic injury involves direct activation of mitochondrial sirtuin 3
Authors: Darwesh Ahmed M , Fang Liye , Altamimi Tariq R , Jamieson K Lockhart , Bassiouni Wesam , Valencia Robert , Huang Andy , Wang Faqi , Zhang Hao , Ahmed Marawan , Gopal Keshav , Zhang Yongneng , Michelakis Evangelos D , Ussher John R , Edin Matthew L , Zeldin Darryl C , Barakat Khaled , Oudit Gavin Y , Kassiri Zamaneh , Lopaschuk Gary D , Seubert John M
Published: December 2024

Aims

Although current clinical therapies following myocardial infarction (MI) have improved patient outcomes, morbidity, and mortality rates, secondary to ischaemic and ischaemia reperfusion (IR) injury remains high. Maintaining mitochondrial quality is essential to limit myocardial damage following cardiac ischaemia and IR injury. The mitochondrial deacetylase sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) plays a pivotal role in regulating mitochondrial function and cardiac energy metabolism. In the current study, we hypothesize that 19,20-epoxydocosapentaenoic acid (19,20-EDP) attenuates cardiac IR injury via stimulating mitochondrial SIRT3.

Methods and results

Ex vivo models of isolated heart perfusions were performed in C57BL/6 mice to assess the effect of 19,20-EDP on cardiac function and energy metabolism following IR injury. In vivo permanent occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery was performed to induce MI; mice were administered 19,20-EDP with or without the SIRT3 selective inhibitor 3-TYP. Mitochondrial SIRT3 targets and respiration were assessed in human left ventricular tissues obtained from individuals with ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and compared to non-failing controls (NFCs). Binding affinity of 19,20-EDP to human SIRT3 was assessed using molecular modelling and fluorescence thermal shift assay. Results demonstrated that hearts treated with 19,20-EDP had improved post-ischaemic cardiac function, better glucose oxidation rates, and enhanced cardiac efficiency. The cardioprotective effects were associated with enhanced mitochondrial SIRT3 activity. Interestingly, treatment with 19,20-EDP markedly improved mitochondrial respiration and SIRT3 activity in human left ventricle (LV) fibres with IHD compared to NFC. Moreover, 19,20-EDP was found to bind to the human SIRT3 protein enhancing the NAD+-complex stabilization leading to improved SIRT3 activity. Importantly, the beneficial effects of 19,20-EDP were abolished by SIRT3 inhibition or using the S149A mutant SIRT3.

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that 19,20-EDP-mediated cardioprotective mechanisms against ischaemia and IR injury involve mitochondrial SIRT3, resulting in improved cardiac efficiency.
The N6-methyladenosine demethylase ALKBH5 is a novel epigenetic regulator of aortic valve calcification
Authors: Wang Yueheng , He Shengping , Lan Lan , Yu Hongjiao , Zhao Huan , Xie Yuchen , Zhong Guoli , Yuan Liang , Li Kun , Hu Xiao , Macrae Vicky E , Fu Xiaodong , Chen Guojun , Zhu Dongxing
Published: December 2024

Aims

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a common heart valve disease with significant clinical consequences. The mechanisms that drive the pathogenesis of CAVD remain to be fully elucidated. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent RNA epigenetic regulator, has recently been implicated in cardiovascular disease, but its role in CAVD has yet to be investigated. In this study, we investigated the potential function of m6A modification in CAVD.

Methods and results

Using clinical samples from CAVD patients in combination with human valve interstitial cell (hVIC) calcification model, we screened the expression of m6A modulators and discovered that alkB homolog 5, RNA demethylase (ALKBH5), a key m6A demethylase, was significantly down-regulated in calcified hVICs and human aortic valves. Consistently, increased m6A levels were seen in calcified hVICs, and treatment with 3-deazaadenosine (DAA), an inhibitor of m6A modification, significantly reduced hVIC osteogenic differentiation and calcification. In addition, we showed that silencing of ALKBH5 expression increased global m6A levels and accelerated hVIC osteogenic differentiation and calcification, whereas overexpression of ALKBH5 resulted in the opposite effect. We demonstrated that ALKBH5 directly modulate m6A levels of TGFBR2 and its mRNA stability, leading to altered TGFBR2 expression and SMAD2 signalling in hVICs. We further showed that inhibition of TGFBR2 or knockdown of SMAD2 attenuated ALKBH5 knockdown-induced hVIC osteogenic differentiation and calcification. The expression of the m6A reader protein YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein F1 (YTHDF1) was up-regulated during the process of hVIC calcification. Intriguingly, we revealed that the ALKBH5 silencing-induced increased hVIC osteogenic differentiation and calcification were abolished after knockdown of YTHDF1. These data suggest a potential role YTHDF1 in aortic valve calcification.

Conclusion

This study showed that ALKBH5 attenuated aortic valve calcification through the TGFBR2/SMAD2 signalling pathway via direct m6A modification of TGFBR2.
Comparing perch availability and perch use between African dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion) ecomorphs
Authors: Barends Jody M , Petford Melissa A , Tolley Krystal A
Published: December 2024

Adaptation to different environments can lead to local adaptations that facilitate morphological divergence between closely related taxa, potentially leading to speciation. Quantifying habitat variation can thus provide valuable insights into evolutionary processes. Arboreal dwarf chameleons of the genus Bradypodion exhibit 3 distinct ecomorphological forms: forest, shrub, and “little brown chameleons” (LBCs). It is assumed these ecomorphs are the result of convergence among species that are in similar habitats regardless of ancestry, or in some cases, morphological conservatism and retention of an ancestral form that is adapted to a shared habitat type. If so, then the habitat of different ecomorphs would differ in vegetation structure. Our results show that vegetation structure in fynbos/grassy habitats is characterized by significantly narrower perches than shrubby habitats, but both have a largely vertical perch orientation. In contrast, forests have significantly fewer vertical perches than fynbos/grassy habitats with significantly thicker diameter perches. Accordingly, LBC and shrub species used more vertically oriented perches than forest species, suggesting that perch use corresponds with the most widely available perch angles. Although LBC chameleons used the smallest diameter perches, when corrected for body size, there was no difference in perch diameter among ecomorphs. These results suggest that the body size of LBC chameleons is constrained by the prevalence of small-diameter perches in their habitat. Species in habitats with wider perches attain larger body size. These findings support the notion that variation in perch structure is critical for phenotypic convergence that has resulted in the 3 Bradypodion ecomorphs.
Type 2 myocardial infarction: challenges in diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Chapman Andrew R , Taggart Caelan , Boeddinghaus Jasper , Mills Nicholas L , Fox Keith A A
Published: December 2024

The Fourth Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction recommends a classification based on aetiology, in recognition that the underlying pathophysiology of myocardial infarction influences the approach to investigation and treatment. Type 1 myocardial infarction occurs due to atherosclerotic plaque rupture with thrombosis, whereas type 2 myocardial infarction occurs due to an imbalance in myocardial oxygen supply or unmet need in myocardial oxygen demand, without atherothrombosis, usually in the context of another acute illness. In this state-of-the-art review, the diagnosis, investigation, and treatment of patients with type 2 myocardial infarction are considered, with general advice for clinical practice and a consideration of future research directions.
Dementia and risks of temperature-related mortality and hospitalizations in Germany
Authors: Conte Keivabu Risto , Zagheni Emilio , Fink Anne
Published: December 2024

Background

Extreme temperatures are associated with negative health outcomes, in particular for older adults with pre-existing conditions. While climate change is expected to increase exposure to temperature levels that are detrimental for health, little is known about how dementia shapes vulnerability to extreme temperatures.

Methods

We leveraged repeated quarterly individual-level health claims from 2004 to 2019 on 250,000 individuals in Germany aged 50 years and above with information on key neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia. We linked data on the location of residence of these individuals with high resolution gridded meteorological data. In our empirical analysis, we applied an individual-level Fixed Effects model to estimate how temperature affects the single patient’s probability of hospitalization and death, adjusted for seasonality and comorbidities.

Results

Our findings reveal that heat and cold exposure increase the risk of death. Conversely, the association between extreme temperatures and hospital admissions is more nuanced showing an increase only with cold exposure. Stratifying the analysis by individuals affected by dementia, we observe heat to increase mortality only for individuals with dementia and cold to determine an 8 times larger impact on them and a larger increase in hospitalization. Also, we observe individuals aged above 80 and with dementia do be the most at risk of death with exposure to cold and in particular heat.

Conclusion

Our study contributes to the growing body of evidence on the health impacts of climate change and emphasizes the need for targeted strategies to protect vulnerable groups, particularly patients with dementia, from adverse temperature effects.
Spatial targeting and integration across vaccination, vitamin A and deworming programs throughout India 2019–21
Authors: Rerolle Francois , Dey Arnab K , Benmarhnia Tarik , Arnold Benjamin F
Published: December 2024

Background

Currently, most large-scale public health programs, such as immunization or anti-parasitic deworming, work in relative isolation. Integrating efforts across programs could potentially improve their efficiency, but identifying populations that could benefit from multiple programs has been an operational challenge.

Methods

We analyzed a nationally representative survey conducted in India between 2019 and 2021 to assess and map coverage of seven vaccines [Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG), hepatitis B, polio, diphtheria–tetanus–pertussis (DTP), haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), rotavirus and measles-containing vaccine (MCV)], plus Vitamin A supplementation and anti-parasitic deworming treatment among 86 761 children aged 1–3 years old.

Results

National coverage varied widely by program, from 42% (rotavirus) to 95% (BCG). There was high correlation between district-level coverage estimates (r ≥ 0.7) and extensive spatial overlap in low-coverage populations. In simulated implementation strategies, we show that an integrated strategy that targets full immunization coverage for four core vaccines (BCG, polio, DTP, MCV) would achieve similar coverage to an optimal (but unrealistic) implementation strategy and far better coverage than multiple efforts focused on individual vaccines. Targeting the most under-vaccinated districts within states based on spatial clustering or coverage thresholds led to further improvements in full coverage per child targeted. Integration of anti-parasitic deworming or rotavirus vaccination into a core vaccine delivery mission could nearly double their coverage (from ∼45% to ∼85%).

Conclusions

Integrated delivery and geographic targeting across core vaccines could accelerate India’s progress toward full immunization coverage. An integrated platform could greatly expand coverage of non-core vaccines and other child health interventions.