bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A usability study on the inGAIT-VSO: effects of a variable-stiffness ankle-foot orthosis on the walking performance of children with cerebral palsy
Authors: van Noort Luc , Van Crey Nikko , Rouse Elliott J. , Martínez-Caballero Ignacio , van Asseldonk Edwin H. F. , Bayón Cristina
Published: August 2024

Background

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly used by children with cerebral palsy (CP), but traditional solutions are unable to address the heterogeneity and evolving needs amongst children with CP. One key limitation lies in the inability of current passive devices to customize the torque–angle relationship, which is essential to adapt the support to the specific individual needs. Powered alternatives can provide customized behavior, but often face challenges with reliability, weight, and cost. Overall, clinicians find certain barriers that hinder their prescription. In recent work, the Variable Stiffness Orthosis (VSO) was developed, enabling stiffness customization without the need for motors or sophisticated control.

Methods

This work evaluates a pediatric version of the VSO (inGAIT-VSO) by investigating its impact on the walking performance of children with CP and its potential to be used as a tool for assessing the effect of variable stiffness on pathological gait. Data was collected for three typical developing (TD) children and six pediatric participants with CP over two sessions involving walking/balance tasks and questionnaires.

Results

The sensors of the inGAIT-VSO provided useful information to assess the impact of the device. Increasing the stiffness of the inGAIT-VSO significantly reduced participants’ dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Despite reduced range of motion, the peak restoring torque increased with stiffness. Overall the participants’ gait pattern was altered by reducing crouch gait, preventing drop-foot and supporting body weight. Participants with CP exhibited significantly lower (p < 0.05) physiological cost when walking with the inGAIT-VSO compared to normal condition (own AFO or shoes only). Generally, the device did not impair walking and balance of the participants compared to normal conditions. According to the questionnaire results, the inGAIT-VSO was easy to use and participants reported positive experiences.

Conclusion

The inGAIT-VSO stiffnesses significantly affected participants’ plantarflexion and dorsiflexion and yielded objective data regarding walking performance in pathological gait (e.g. ankle angle, exerted torque and restored assistive energy). These effects were captured by the sensors integrated in the device without using external equipment. The inGAIT-VSO shows promise for customizing AFO stiffness and aiding clinicians in selecting a personalized stiffness based on objective metrics.
Fruit and vegetable intake modifies the association between ultra-processed food and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Hosseinpour-Niazi Somayeh , Malmir Hanieh , Mirmiran Parvin , Shabani Maryam , Hasheminia Mitra , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: August 2024

Background

This prospective cohort study aimed to investigate the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), as well as to assess whether fruit and vegetable intake and weight change modify this association.

Methods

We included 1915 healthy participants who participated in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS), all of whom had complete demographic, anthropometric, and dietary measurements. A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to assess UPF consumption based on the NOVA classification system. MetS was defined according to the Joint Interim Statement. Multivariable adjusted Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for MetS events across tertiles of UPF. The effect of fruit and vegetable consumption and weight change on this association was assessed using joint classification by Cox regression.

Results

UFP consumption showed no association with MetS risk after adjusting for confounders. However, after adjustment for dietary fiber, fruits, and vegetables, the highest tertile of UPF consumption was positively linked to MetS risk, compared to the lowest tertile. There was a significant interaction between fruit, vegetable, and dietary fiber intake and UPF consumption concerning the risk of MetS (All P values < 0.05). Among individuals consuming less than 248 g/day of fruit, the risk of MetS increased by 54% (confidence interval: 1.13–2.10) in the highest UPF tertile. Consuming vegetables and dietary fiber below the median (258 g/day and 42.2 g/day, respectively) increased the risk of MetS in the third tertile of UPF. However, consuming vegetables and fiber ≥ median intake, reduced the risk of MetS among those with the lowest UPF consumption. Furthermore, the risk of MetS was observed in the third tertile of UPF consumption among individuals with fruit and vegetable consumption < 537 g/day. UPF consumption was not associated with the risk of MetS in different weight change statuses.

Conclusions

Consuming more fruits and vegetables mitigated the adverse effect of UPF on the risk of developing MetS.
The place of health in the EU-CELAC interregional cooperation from 2005 to 2023: a historical, empirical and prospective analysis
Authors: Salgado Carolina
Published: August 2024

Background

Much has been said by actors from different fields and perspectives about the manifold changes in world affairs triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, it is to be expected that there will be impacts on long-standing partnerships such as the one between the European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean Countries. However, few studies have demonstrated these impacts, either empirically, by uncovering their specificities or from a historical perspective, to allow for a reasonable methodological comparison of the patterns used to define the partnership and that have changed or have been affected in some way by the pandemic.

Results

Through an in-depth qualitative assessment of primary and secondary sources, this article contributes to this research gap. It analyzes the patterns and changes or impacts in light of two strands of behavior that can make sense of EU-CELAC health cooperation—revisionist or reformist. The findings show an economy-driven health agenda as a new pattern of cooperation, which derives from EU reformist behavior after the pandemic.

Conclusions

The EU power to enforce its priorities in the context of health cooperation with CELAC is the main factor that will define how (and not just which) competing interests and capacities will be accommodated. The relevance of the study to the fields of global governance for health, interregional health cooperation and EU foreign policy is threefold. It shows us i.how two more international regimes are easily intertwined with health—trade and intellectual property—with the potential to deepen asymmetries and divergences even between long-standing strategic partners; ii.contrary to the idea that reformist behaviors are only adopted by actors who are dissatisfied with the status quo, the study shows us that the reformist actor can also be the one who has more material power and influence and who nevertheless challenges the success of cooperation in the name of new priorities and the means to achieve them; and iii.how the EU will find it difficult to operationalize its new priorities internally, among states and private actors, and with those of CELAC, given the history of intense disputes over health-related economic aspects.
Single-cell peripheral immunoprofiling of Lewy body and Parkinson’s disease in a multi-site cohort
Authors: Phongpreecha Thanaphong , Mathi Kavita , Cholerton Brenna , Fox Eddie J. , Sigal Natalia , Espinosa Camilo , Reincke Momsen , Chung Philip , Hwang Ling-Jen , Gajera Chandresh R. , Berson Eloise , Perna Amalia , Xie Feng , Shu Chi-Hung , Hazra Debapriya , Channappa Divya , Dunn Jeffrey E. , Kipp Lucas B. , Poston Kathleen L. , Montine Kathleen S. , Maecker Holden T. , Aghaeepour Nima , Montine Thomas J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Multiple lines of evidence support peripheral organs in the initiation or progression of Lewy body disease (LBD), a spectrum of neurodegenerative diagnoses that include Parkinson’s Disease (PD) without or with dementia (PDD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). However, the potential contribution of the peripheral immune response to LBD remains unclear. This study aims to characterize peripheral immune responses unique to participants with LBD at single-cell resolution to highlight potential biomarkers and increase mechanistic understanding of LBD pathogenesis in humans.

Methods

In a case–control study, peripheral mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples from research participants were randomly sampled from multiple sites across the United States. The diagnosis groups comprise healthy controls (HC, n = 159), LBD (n = 110), Alzheimer’s disease dementia (ADD, n = 97), other neurodegenerative disease controls (NDC, n = 19), and immune disease controls (IDC, n = 14). PBMCs were activated with three stimulants (LPS, IL-6, and IFNa) or remained at basal state, stained by 13 surface markers and 7 intracellular signal markers, and analyzed by flow cytometry, which generated 1,184 immune features after gating.

Results

The model classified LBD from HC with an AUROC of 0.87 ± 0.06 and AUPRC of 0.80 ± 0.06. Without retraining, the same model was able to distinguish LBD from ADD, NDC, and IDC. Model predictions were driven by pPLCγ2, p38, and pSTAT5 signals from specific cell populations under specific activation. The immune responses characteristic for LBD were not associated with other common medical conditions related to the risk of LBD or dementia, such as sleep disorders, hypertension, or diabetes.

Conclusions and Relevance

Quantification of PBMC immune response from multisite research participants yielded a unique pattern for LBD compared to HC, multiple related neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune diseases thereby highlighting potential biomarkers and mechanisms of disease.
aKNNO: single-cell and spatial transcriptomics clustering with an optimized adaptive k-nearest neighbor graph
Authors: Li Jia , Shyr Yu , Liu Qi
Published: August 2024

Typical clustering methods for single-cell and spatial transcriptomics struggle to identify rare cell types, while approaches tailored to detect rare cell types gain this ability at the cost of poorer performance for grouping abundant ones. Here, we develop aKNNO to simultaneously identify abundant and rare cell types based on an adaptive k-nearest neighbor graph with optimization. Benchmarking on 38 simulated and 20 single-cell and spatial transcriptomics datasets demonstrates that aKNNO identifies both abundant and rare cell types more accurately than general and specialized methods. Using only gene expression aKNNO maps abundant and rare cells more precisely compared to integrative approaches.
Comparing regional brain uptake of incretin receptor agonists after intranasal delivery in CD-1 mice and the APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Abdulhameed Noor , Babin Alice , Hansen Kim , Weaver Riley , Banks William A. , Talbot Konrad , Rhea Elizabeth M.
Published: August 2024

Targeting brain insulin resistance (BIR) has become an attractive alternative to traditional therapeutic treatments for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Incretin receptor agonists (IRAs), targeting either or both of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors, have proven to reverse BIR and improve cognition in mouse models of AD. We previously showed that many, but not all, IRAs can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) after intravenous (IV) delivery. Here we determined if widespread brain uptake of IRAs could be achieved by circumventing the BBB using intranasal (IN) delivery, which has the added advantage of minimizing adverse gastrointestinal effects of systemically delivered IRAs. Of the 5 radiolabeled IRAs tested (exenatide, dulaglutide, semaglutide, DA4-JC, and DA5-CH) in CD-1 mice, exenatide, dulaglutide, and DA4-JC were successfully distributed throughout the brain following IN delivery. We observed significant sex differences in uptake for DA4-JC. Dulaglutide and DA4-JC exhibited high uptake by the hippocampus and multiple neocortical areas. We further tested and found the presence of AD-associated Aβ pathology minimally affected uptake of dulaglutide and DA4-JC. Of the 5 tested IRAs, dulaglutide and DA4-JC are best capable of accessing brain regions most vulnerable in AD (neocortex and hippocampus) after IN administration. Future studies will need to be performed to determine if IN IRA delivery can reduce BIR in AD or animal models of that disorder.
Localization and etiological stratification of non-neoplastic small bowel bleeding via CT imaging: a 10-year study
Authors: Jiang Yuchen , Li Yuanqiu , Xiong Ziman , Morelli John N. , Shen Yaqi , Hu Xuemei , Hu Daoyu , Li Zhen
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to assess the diagnostic efficacy of contrast-enhanced CT scans for small bowel bleeding.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated patients diagnosed with non-neoplastic small intestinal bleeding (including duodenum) who underwent abdominal CT at our institution from December 2013 to March 2023. Patients were categorized into diverticulum and non-diverticulum groups based on the cause of bleeding. Active bleeding was defined on the CT images as extravasation of contrast material in the intestinal lumen during the arterial phase and/or progressive accumulation of contrast material during the venous phase. We have documented the original report (extracted from the medical record system and additional consultation opinions from senior radiologists), including the presence of active bleeding and its potential bleeding location. Furthermore, two radiologists reassessed the CT images, seeking consensus on the diagnosis between them.

Results

The study included 165 patients, predominantly male, with a median age of 30 years. Active bleeding was identified in 48.3% of patients. Notably, all identified bleeding diverticula in the diverticulum group exhibited cul-de-sac termination. Among the identified causes of bleeding, Crohn’s disease was most prevalent (46.7%, N of causes = 64). Significant differences were observed in the diagnostic methods between the diverticulum and non-diverticulum groups, with surgery predominantly applied in the diverticulum group, and endoscopy in the non-diverticulum group (n = 49 vs n = 15, p = 0.001). Contrast agent extravasation was significantly higher in the diverticulum group (n = 54 vs n = 16, p = 0.001), and Meckel’s diverticulum cases appearing tubular were significantly higher than in other diverticulum cases (n = 25 vs n = 3, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

CT allows for a higher detection rate of diverticular bleeding, even if asymptomatic, guiding classification into multiple potentially clinically relevant categories.

Critical relevance statement

Contrast-enhanced CT imaging is effective in determining the location and cause of non-neoplastic small bowel bleeding, especially diverticular bleeding. Therefore, the use of enhanced CT should be prioritized in the diagnosis and management of small bowel bleeding.

Key Points

CT has potential value in the diagnosis of small bowel bleeding.

CT imaging suggests possible surgical intervention for active bleeding detection.

CT diagnoses and localizes small bowel bleeding, aiding in treatment and prioritizing in guidelines.

Graphical Abstract
A systematic review and Bayesian analysis of the adverse effects of dienogest
Authors: Li Rui-Rui , Xi Qing , Tao Lei , Sheng Wei , Zhao Cheng-Cheng , Wu Yu-Jie
Published: August 2024

Background and objective

Endometriosis and adenomyosis are two common diseases that impair women’s health, and dienogest is one of the pharmacologic treatments which is the first-line therapeutic option for patients with pelvic pain and individuals who have no desire for immediate pregnancy. The goal of this study was to summarize the current evidence of adverse events associated with dienogest as well as the prevalence of these adverse events during treatment with dienogest.

Methods

Several databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central and Clinicaltrials.gov, etc.) and the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) Public Dashboard were searched on May 31, 2023, using the topic words alongside free words of dienogest and “adverse reaction”. Studies were incorporated into this research if they reported or assessed safety issues or adverse reactions of dienogest during the period of endometriosis treatment or adenomyosis therapy. The extracted information comprised trial design, dienogest and control group demographics, as well as reported side effects.

Results

This systematic review comprehended 39 publications in total. The mean age of patients in the included studies was 34.43 years. The follow-up duration varied from 3 to 60 months. Most adverse reactions were common and not serious, and the most common adverse reactions during dienogest medication were abnormal uterine bleeding (55%, 95% CI 37–73%), amenorrhea (17%, 95% CI 2–42%) and swelling (13%, 95% CI 3–28%). Uncommon adverse reactions included dysmenorrhea (0.2%,n = 1), dyspepsia (0.4%,n = 1), and (lower) abdominal pain (1%, 95% CI 0–3%), urticaria (1%, 95% CI 0–3%) and peritonitis (1%,n = 1). Serious adverse reactions including decreased lumbar spine Bone Mineral Density (BMD), depression, peritonitis and so on have been reported. Heterogeneity assessment revealed that patient number and study design are influencing factors to adverse reaction prevalence. Moreover, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, back pain and anemia are side effects reported both in the FAERS database and in the systematic review.

Conclusions

Dienogest’s most frequent side effects were not severe. Dienogest is generally safe for treating endometriosis and adenomyosis. Nevertheless, people should be aware of serious adverse reactions, such as decreased lumbar spine BMD and hemorrhagic shock.
Frequency-dependent effects of 0.05% atropine eyedrops on myopia progression and peripheral defocus: a prospective study
Authors: Yang Yuanfang , Xue Minsong , Hao Jiangdong , Lin Zhenghua , Xi Xiaoyun , Wu Haoran , Wen Longbo , Xu Qinglin , Luo Zhiwei , Ran Guangyao , Artal Pablo , Lan Weizhong , Li Xiaoning , Yang Zhikuan
Published: August 2024

Background

Atropine, specifically 0.05% eyedrops, has proven effective in slowing myopia progression. This study aims to investigate peripheral refraction (PR) characteristics in myopic children treated with 0.05% atropine eyedrops at different frequencies.

Methods

One hundred thirty-eight myopic children completed this one-year prospective study, randomly assigned to once daily (7/7), twice per week (2/7), or once per week (1/7) groups. Spherical equivalent (SE) and axial length (AL) were measured. PR was assessed using a custom-made Hartmann-Shack wavefront peripheral sensor, covering a visual field of horizontal 60° and vertical 36°. Relative peripheral refraction (RPR) was calculated by subtracting central from peripheral measurements.

Results

After one year, SE increased more significantly in the 1/7 group compared to the 7/7 group (P < 0.001) and 2/7 group (P = 0.004); AL elongation was also greater in the 1/7 group compared to the 7/7 group (P < 0.001). In comparison with higher frequency groups, 1/7 group exhibited more myopic PR in the fovea and its vertical superior, inferior, and nasal retina; and less myopic RPR in the periphery retina after one-year (P < 0.05). Additionally, RPR in the 7/7 group demonstrated myopic shift across the entire retina, the 2/7 group in temporal and inferior retina, while the 1/7 group showed a hyperopic shift in the superior retina (P < 0.05). Moreover, myopic shift of RPR in the temporal retina is related to less myopia progression, notably in the 7/7 group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Atropine inhibits myopia progression in a frequency-dependent manner. The once-daily group showed the slowest myopia progression but exhibited more myopic shifts in RPR. Additionally, RPR in the temporal retina was related to myopia progression in all groups.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2100043506. Registered 21 February 2021, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=122214
There’s no place like home: optimizing the antepartum inpatient experience
Authors: Hesson Ashley M. , Davuluri Kavya , Corbin C. Kenzie , Rujan Anna M. , Berman Deborah R.
Published: August 2024

Background

To characterize the demographics of a modern hospitalized antepartum population, compare the morbidities of this subset to national morbidity trends, and identify predictors of satisfaction during hospitalization to inform opportunities to enhance equitable antepartum care.

Methods

Pregnant people admitted to the antepartum service of a large university hospital between 2011 and 2019 were surveyed about their hospitalization, pregnancy outcomes, provider interactions, perceived needs, and resource use. Multiple correspondence analysis was used to group patient responses based on latent relationships among demographic, medical, and psychosocial variables. Multivariate analyses were conducted to identify predictors of patient experience rating. Patient free text responses were qualitatively analyzed for common themes.

Results

Of 740 pregnant people invited to participate, 298 surveys met criteria for analysis. 25.2% of these pregnant people identified as non-white and 20.8% were admitted for the management of a chronic medical condition. Patient responses clustered into three representative groups: (1) working pregnant people facing resource limitations, (2) first-time pregnant people with college educations, and (3) pregnant people with medical problems and limited partner support. The mean overall patient admission experience rating was 8.4 ± 1.7 out of 10. Variables represented in Cluster 1 (working and resource limitations) were associated with lower patient experience rating (p < 0.01). There was no significant variation in experience rating with indication for admission (P = 0.14) or outcome of the pregnancy (P = 0.32). Conversely, feeling supported by partners (P < 0.01) and providers (P < 0.01) directly correlated with a better experience.

Conclusion

Black pregnant people and those with chronic medical conditions are overrepresented in this antepartum population when compared to the demographics of those not requiring hospitalization in pregnancy, where these groups also have higher rates of maternal morbidity and mortality at the national level. The most important contributors to patients’ satisfaction with their antepartum experience are feeling listened to by providers and supported by partners. Improving patient-provider communication and partner engagement during antepartum admissions should be a focus of inpatient high-risk obstetric care.
Exploring global linguistic nuances: analyzing region-specific inflectional morpheme frequency in ICNALE
Authors: Dogar Maria Fatima , Saleem Tahir , Aslam Muhammad , Khan Shafaat Yar
Published: August 2024

This study investigates region-specific inflectional morpheme frequencies within the ICNALE Corpus, exploring significant global linguistic intricacies. Through a quantitative, corpus-based approach, it conducts a comprehensive contrastive analysis, leveraging the extensive accessibility of the online ICNALE. Despite inherent limitations in data collection primarily reliant on interviews and written compositions within the ICNALE Corpus, the study offers illuminating insights into how diverse linguistic backgrounds influence the usage of inflectional morphemes in English. The findings bring to light interesting patterns in possessive usage, reflecting variations among ESL learners in acquiring grammatical features. Additionally, it highlights complexities in acquiring comparative and superlative degrees, aligning with challenges encountered by learners in mastering specific inflections. Analyses of plural noun inflections, subject-verb agreement, past tense, past participle, and present participle usage underscore the multifaceted influences of language background, acquisition stages, and instructional emphasis on learners’ morphological patterns. Future inquiries could further investigate the impact of instructional methodologies on inflectional morpheme acquisition, undertake comparative studies across proficiency levels and age groups, explore morphological transfer from learners’ native languages, and deepen comprehension of cognitive processes guiding effective learning strategies. These endeavors hold promise in refining pedagogical methodologies and enriching language learning experiences for diverse learner cohorts.
Pharmacological interventions for pain management during arteriovenous fistula puncture in adults and adolescents undergoing maintenance haemodialysis: a systematic review
Authors: Arshad Abdul Rehman , Ijaz Umair , Rafique Babar
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Pain is a stressful experience for patients receiving haemodialysis through arteriovenous fistulas. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of different pharmacological interventions for reducing pain during cannulation of arteriovenous fistulas among adolescents and adult patients with end-stage renal disease.

Methods

The protocol was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (Registration number CRD42024497355). A PRISMA-compliant systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL and Google Scholar. The primary and secondary outcomes were a reduction in the severity of pain and incidence of side effects respectively.

Results

In total, 15 studies were included in this review, all of which had some or serious concerns about the risk of bias. Compared with EMLA, cryotherapy with ice packs at the fistula site was superior, with a pain intensity of 1.05 (95% confidence interval 0.21, 1.89) points lower on the visual analogue scale, and there was no difference in the incidence of adverse effects. There was a greater reduction in pain intensity with EMLA cream than with piroxicam gel (mean difference 1.30; 95% confidence interval 0.68, 1.93). No difference in the incidence of adverse effects was noted. Compared with lidocaine spray, EMLA cream was associated with a lesser degree of pain (mean difference 2.09 points; 95% confidence interval 1.81, 2.38). Compared with placebo, cryotherapy with ice packs at the Hoku point was better, with a pain intensity of 2.53 (95% confidence interval 1.23, 3.83) points less on the visual analogue scale.

Conclusions

Available evidence supports the use of cryotherapy with ice packs and EMLA cream for reducing pain during cannulation of arteriovenous fistulas.
Dengue virus type 3 infection in a traveler returning from Costa Rica to Japan in 2023
Authors: Sasaki Tadahiro , Morita Ryo , Aoyama Ikuko , Baba Takashi , Goto Tetsushi , Kubota-Koketsu Ritsuko , Samune Yoshihiro , Nakayama Emi E. , Shioda Tatsuo , Shirano Michinori
Published: August 2024

The number of dengue cases has increased dramatically in recent years. In Latin America, the number of cases and deaths in 2023 was the highest ever recorded. We report on a patient who had been infected with dengue virus during his stay in Costa Rica in September 2023, and developed the disease after returning to Japan. Plasma obtained from the patient was used for diagnosis and dengue virus serotyping by real-time PCR. The nucleotide sequence of the envelope region of dengue virus was then determined by the direct sequencing method, and this sequence was used for phylogenetic analyses. The patient was found to be infected with dengue virus type 3 genotype III. The sequence from the present case was more homologous with sequences registered in Florida, USA, associated with travel to Cuba in 2022 than with sequences registered in Costa Rica 10 years ago. The Pan American Health Organization reported that only dengue virus type 1 and 2 cases were reported in Costa Rica in 2019–2021, whereas dengue virus type 3 and 4 cases started being reported in 2022. In 2023, the reported numbers of cases with dengue virus types 3 and 4 exceeded those of dengue virus types 1 and 2. In addition, regional differences in endemic strains have been observed in Costa Rica. Our findings suggest that the dengue virus type 3 that infected the patient was more likely an influx of a strain that had been circulating in Caribbean countries such as Cuba in recent years, rather than a re-emergence of an indigenous virus in Costa Rica. The serotypes of dengue virus prevalent in Costa Rica have been changing since 2022. All four serotypes were prevalent in 2023, with a particularly sharp increase in the number of cases of dengue virus types 3 and 4. Future monitoring and surveillance are essential because changes in endemic serotypes can cause antibody-dependent enhancement, which can lead to severe dengue disease presentations.
President's Page: The state of SEG in 2024
Authors: Cheng Arthur
Published: August 2024

This is my last President's Page as active SEG president. I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the past year as SEG president and share with you my thoughts and experiences.
Introduction to this special section: Geophysics and sustainability
Authors: Correa Julia , Titov Aleksei , Kazei Vladimir
Published: August 2024

Unprecedented levels of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere drive climate change by trapping heat and raising global temperatures. This warming effect disrupts weather patterns, increases the frequency of natural disasters, and contributes to rising sea levels. Applied geophysics can significantly alleviate anthropogenic emissions and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal energy, and hydrogen. One solution at the core of energy transition is the broad application of carbon capture, utilization, and geologic storage (CCUS) at the scale of gigatonnes of sequestered CO2 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions during the transition to a carbon-neutral future. Geophysical monitoring is central to the success of CCUS. In particular, seismic methods serve as a primary tool to ensure compliance and safety in CCUS projects. However, the role of geophysics in sustainability is a broader topic extending beyond carbon geosequestration.
Ultra-dense nodal seismic acquisition for automated geohazard analysis
Authors: Colombo Daniele , Sandoval-Curiel Ernesto , Alyousuf Taqi , Turkoglu Ersan , Rovetta Diego
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we address the problem of shallow geohazard mapping by developing an integrated workflow consisting of nodal seismic acquisition and automated data analysis. Densely spaced point-receiver land nodes and point sources are adopted as an alternative to receiver arrays or groups conventionally used in seismic exploration. The recently developed methodology of surface-consistent decomposition of the transmitted wavefield is applied to the nodal data. Ultra-resolution mapping of surface-consistent attributes in amplitude and phase is obtained, together with the generation of high-energy signal beams at the common midpoint positions, forming virtual (shot) supergathers (VSGs). The VSG preserves frequency and true-amplitude content thanks to the surface-consistent corrections applied before beam forming. Traveltimes, waveforms, and surface waves are then analyzed in the high signal-to-noise ratio VSG, leading to inversion of the subsurface parameters. Human-intensive interpretation of surface-wave dispersion curves in the f-k spectra is facilitated by the introduction of efficient machine learning algorithms for the unsupervised and supervised paradigms. The ultra-dense nodal acquisition and automated data analysis are effectively applied to the analysis of several cases of near-surface geohazards.
The design of ‘opportunistic’ or sparse onshore seismic surveys
Authors: Dean Tim
Published: August 2024

Seismic surveying is the preferred subsurface exploration technique, but data acquisition can be problematic in populated areas and especially in urban areas. In this paper, I describe a method to design “opportunistic” or sparse surveys that utilize existing roads and tracks and whose objective is to allow the acquisition of a data set especially suited to the application of 5D regularization. The method incorporates six stages: theoretical design, identification of possible line locations, geometry creation, geometry evaluation, survey optimization, and the creation of infill points. Unlike conventional designs, this process requires the calculation of specific metrics that indicate the suitability of the design for regularization. The process also requires multiple iterations of the evaluation/optimization/infill stages, some of which can be automated, to generate the optimum design. Given the bespoke nature of the method, a specialized MATLAB package was developed to implement the process, which also incorporates the numerous high-performance algorithms required.
Offset VSP acquired with a single-use fiber-optic probe: Gorgon CCS case study
Authors: Tertyshnikov Konstantin , Isaenkov Roman , Yurikov Alexey , Phythian Paul , Scoby-Smith Leigh , Shashkin Pavel , Pevzner Roman
Published: August 2024

There are many challenges associated with monitoring industrial subsurface CO2 storage. Utilizing a reliable strategy for monitoring and assurance is paramount. Numerous aspects and trade-offs need to be considered when designing a cost-effective monitoring solution that must satisfy regulatory and social licensing requirements and minimize operational complexity. Among various geophysical techniques that are included in the suite of carbon capture and storage (CCS) monitoring programs, seismic surveys provide reliable observations of the deep subsurface. However, active surface seismic techniques are expensive, resulting in significant time separation between surveys (several months or years). Downhole seismic approaches combined with fiber-optic sensing provide flexible options in designing on-demand monitoring strategies. Distributed acoustic sensing offers the opportunity to utilize injection wells for downhole time-lapse seismic imaging and microseismic detection, minimizing the impact on production operations. This paper presents the results of a multioffset vertical seismic profiling survey acquired in CO2 injection wells using bare fibers. The fibers were deployed inside the production tubing through FiberLine Intervention technology developed by Well-SENSE. The test utilized two injection wells for active seismic acquisition. The study took place on Barrow Island (Western Australia) as part of the Gorgon CCS project. The study demonstrates the technological advantages of fast deployment of the sensing fiber and the high quality of acquired seismic data. The paper highlights characteristic noise patterns in the recorded data and suggests approaches to attenuate their effects on seismic image quality. Finally, the impact of survey geometry and directional sensitivity of fiber on the recorded wavefield and the quality of seismic imaging is discussed.
SeisRAFT: A recurrent deep learning network for 4D seismic registration and CO2 storage monitoring
Authors: Zhang Qie , Kazei Vladimir , Li Weichang
Published: August 2024

The alignment or registration of seismic images is an important and extensively researched aspect in seismic data processing. This process plays a pivotal role in evaluating the evolution of CO2 plumes and assessing the potential for CO2 leakage from its reservoir storage when using 4D or time-lapse seismic methodology. The computer vision community has demonstrated considerable advantages in employing deep learning for such tasks, particularly when confronted with substantial shifts, mismatches, and noises in complex images. In this study, we leverage a cutting-edge recurrent deep learning network known as recurrent all-pairs field transforms (RAFT), incorporating tailored modifications to address seismic matching challenges. We evaluate the network's performance on both synthetic and field 4D CO2 seismic data sets, showcasing its superior accuracy and effectiveness compared to a widely used traditional method. Particularly, in some intricate and ambiguous instances, where even human vision may struggle to identify corresponding events between images, our deep learning method exhibits strong and reliable performance. Validated results confirm that this lightweight multiscale network, trained through self-supervised learning, offers a rapid, parameter-free, and end-to-end solution for 4D image matching in subsurface CO2 storage monitoring with potential applicability to many other seismic registration tasks.
Risk Factors in the Development of Very Late-Onset Schizophrenia-Like Psychosis: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gallier-Birt Isabelle , White David , Ibekwe Kaldora
Published: August 2024

Aims

Very Late-Onset Schizophrenia-Like Psychosis (VLOSLP) is a condition resembling schizophrenia, which has a first onset in individuals at age 60 or later. Understanding the risk factors associated with the development of this condition is crucial, given the increasing ageing population and the elevated mortality rate in VLOSLP patients compared with the general population. This scoping review aims to explore and map the risk factors associated with VLOSLP development and begin to identify potential mechanisms linking these factors through comprehensive literature searching, screening and data extraction.

Methods

Conducted as a scoping review; MEDLINE, Embase and APA PsycInfo were searched using the terms: “Very-Late Onset Schizophrenia-Like Psychosis”, “VLOSLP”, “Geriatric Psychosis” and “Geriatric Schizophrenia”. Inclusion criteria focused on psychosis with onset at 60 years or older and the identification of at least one potential risk factor. Studies were excluded which did not specifically refer to age of onset or concerned psychosis with an attributable organic cause. Thematic analysis was used to categorise risk factors into biological and psychosocial themes, followed by further organisation into specific subthemes.

Results

Out of 326 initial results, 41 studies met inclusion criteria and underwent data analysis. Key risk factors included female gender, sensory impairment, social isolation, and migration, with potential interconnections identified between factors. Postulated mechanisms for the role of a risk factor in VLOSLP development recorded in the literature were included in the review. Mechanisms showed potential co-linkage between subthemes of risk factor. Migration status was also shown to impact gender as a risk factor, with male migrants experiencing higher rates of VLOSLP than their female counterparts. Thematic analysis highlighted how social isolation, a prominent risk factor, might be linked to, or reinforced by, sensory impairment, trauma, bereavement, and premorbid personality traits.

Conclusion

The scoping review revealed that risk factors for VLOSLP span across biological, social, and psychological domains, with the findings contributing to the broader understanding of schizophrenia-like psychoses in the elderly population. Social isolation emerged as a widely-cited factor, reiterating the importance of managing risk factors for VLOSLP in vulnerable individuals via a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. Results bring attention to the bi-directional relationships between risk factors and psychotic illness, with perceived risk factors a potential consequence of the psychosis. In response to this, future work may involve large-cohort longitudinal studies to outline temporal relationships between risk factors and symptom development.
Disordered Eating and Service Contact in a Representative UK Sample
Authors: Geers Benjamin , Bould Helen , Newlove-Delgado Tamsin
Published: August 2024

Aims

Aim 1: Identify the proportion of 11–19-year-olds in the Mental Health of Children and Young People 2017 survey screening positive for a possible eating problem, using the Development and Wellbeing Assessment.

Aim 2: Describe patterns of service contact in individuals screening positive for possible eating problems.

Methods

We used data from the Mental Health of Children and Young People 2017 survey, a stratified probability sample of children and their parents and teachers across England. The screening questions from the Eating Disorders module of the Development and Wellbeing Assessment (DAWBA) was completed by all children aged 11–19, all parents of children ages 11–16 and parents of children ages 17–19 where consent was given. Individuals were classified as screening positive for possible eating problems if they had one or more self-reported symptoms, or two or more parent-reported symptoms. We describe the proportion of individuals screening positive by age, sex, co-morbidities, and household income.

Individuals also answered questions about help seeking from different sources (in relation to any mental health concern). We classify these sources of support as informal, professional and specialist.

We analysed all data using Stata 17.

Results

A total of 36.4% (95% CI 34.8, 38.1) of children and young people aged 11–17 in England screened positive for a possible eating problem, including 47.6% of females (95% CI 45.3, 50.0) and 25.6% of males (95% CI 23.7, 27.8). 60.7% (95% CI 57.9, 63.4) of individuals who screened positive reported that they received no help over the previous year; 13.1% (95% CI 11.2, 15.4) had received informal help only; 17.0% (95% CI 15.0, 19.3) had professional but not specialist help; and 9.13% (95% CI 7.67, 10.9) had received specialist help. High proportions of individuals who received support from formal services during the year prior to the survey screened positive for possible eating problems: 42.7% (95% CI 38.6, 47.0) for teachers, 46.9% (95% CI 40.9, 53.0) for GPs, 32.2% (95% CI 23.1, 42.9) for Paediatrics and Child Health and 50.0% (95% CI 43.1, 56.8) for Mental Health Services.

Conclusion

Despite high numbers of young people screening positive for a possible eating problem, rates of help seeking in this group were low. Conversely, high proportions of those seeking professional help have a possible eating problem.

Clinicians should be aware of the high proportions of individuals with possible eating problems accessing their services. Future research should aim to increase help seeking in individuals with possible eating problems.
‘Well-Track’: Fitbit Based Sleep and Physical Activity Intervention for Severe Mental Illness (SMI) Patients
Authors: Griffiths Chris , Sheldon Alice , Smith Gerry , Walker Kate , Jiang Harmony
Published: August 2024

Aims

Compared with general population average, people experiencing severe mental illness (SMI) have lower levels of physical activity, high levels of sedation, and more sleep problems (Soundy et al. 2013; Vancampfort et al. 2015). This is linked to symptoms of depression, lower wellbeing, hopelessness, lower quality of life and physical health conditions, such as: cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke, hypertension, osteoarthritis, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Rhodes et al. 2017; Schuch et al. 2017). Engaging in physical activity improves quality of life, psychotic symptomatology, cognition, functioning and physical health (Mittal et al. 2017). Improved sleep is associated with enhanced social interaction, feeling energised, and improved engagement in activities (Waite et al. 2016). NHS Long-Term Plan (2022) is to ensure that at least 80% of people with SMI receive an annual 12 point physical health check. Professor Helen Lester stated: 'Don't just screen, intervene'. There is an urgent need to provide interventions that improve the healthy lifestyles of people with SMI, but there is a lack of suitable and effective interventions. To be effective, interventions need to be individualised (Griffiths et al. 2021).

Intervention and aims

Well-Track is the provision of a Fitbit and its software apps, sleep hygiene and physical activity guidance, motivational interviewing, workbook goal setting through three sessions with a health coach. Aim was to improve sleep, physical activity, wellbeing, and healthy lifestyles.

Methods

Outcome measure data collection from baseline to 3 and 6 week follow-ups. Change in sleep quality and wellbeing were assessed in 50 participants, and participant feedback was obtained.

Results

Improvements were found in sleep quality and wellbeing. Most patients attended all three sessions and actively used the Fitbit and its software apps, guidance and workbook to set goals and to make positive changes to their lifestyle and daily routines to improve motivation, quality of sleep, and level of physical activity.

Conclusion

Healthy effective sleep and physical activity/exercise are important to SMI patients’ wellbeing and mental and physical health. A health coach successfully and fully integrated the Well-Track intervention into routine service provision. The intervention was beneficial, relatively easy and low cost to implement, and well-liked by patients and staff; and therefore, could be offered by all community mental health teams (CMHTs) and physical health check services. SMI services should consider and assess sleep and physical activity/exercise issues and promote healthy effective sleep and physical activity/exercise within a recovery focused practice.
Prevalence of Low Mood, Thoughts of Self-Harm and Suicidal Ideation in Women Affected by the Perimenopause and Menopause
Authors: Hendriks Olivia , Kamal Aini , Reisel Dan , Newson Louise , Saini Pooja
Published: August 2024

Aims

Low mood is a common clinical symptom during the perimenopause and menopause. However, the extent to which low mood in menopausal women intersects with thoughts of self-harm and suicidal ideation is largely unknown. In this study we aimed to explore these questions by using two different validated symptom scores.

Methods

We administered a modified version of the Greene Climacteric Symptom Questionnaire (Greene 1976) to all new patients attending the Newson Health Menopause and Wellbeing Clinic, Stratford-upon-Avon, between 1 September 2023 and 31 December 2023. Patients were also asked to complete the PHQ-9 symptom questionnaire, an instrument for diagnosing and measuring the severity of depression. Data were collected from electronic health records and analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

1,212 patients were included in the study and completed the Greene Climacteric and PHQ-9 questionnaires at baseline and after 3 months. Mood and mental health symptoms including self-reported anxiety and depression affected 98% of patients. 16% of respondents indicated that they had thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation on at least some days in the 2 weeks prior to their initial appointment (Question 9 of the PHQ-9).

Conclusion

The findings of our study demonstrate that negative mood symptoms are common in perimenopausal and menopausal women. 1 in 6 women reported thoughts of self-harm prior to initiation of HRT. Our observational data suggest that mood symptoms are highly prevalent and some women have severe symptoms and may experience suicidal ideation. Our findings should inform better mental health support and access to treatment for women experiencing negative mood symptoms in the menopause transition.