bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relación de la dimensión vertical oclusal con medidas antropométricas de los dedos de la mano, nariz y oreja
Authors:   , Burga Kuroda Kyooko Pamela
Published: October 2024

Objetivo: Encontrar la relación entre la dimensión vertical oclusal (DVO) y la longitud de los dedos, nariz y oreja. Materiales y método: Este estudio se realizó con 260 personas dentadas sin desgaste, 130 hombres y 130 mujeres. Con la ayuda de un calibrador digital (Kamasa), se obtuvieron las medidas de la DVO (tabique nasal – base del mentón) para ser comparada con la medida de sus cinco dedos de la mano (extremo del dedo – primer pliegue palmar), nariz (glabela – punta de la nariz), y oreja (hélice más superior – lóbulo) Resultados: Se halló una fuerte relación entre la DVO y las medidas del dedo anular en mujeres (r = 0.923) y en hombres (r = 0.811), ambas con un nivel de significancia p<0.001. Siendo la medida promedio de la DVO en mujeres 66.7 mm y la medida promedio del dedo anular en ellas es de 66.9 mm y en hombres la medida promedio de la DVO es de 73.9 mm y la medida promedio del dedo anular en ellos es de 73.8 mm. Conclusión: Se demostró que la medida del dedo anular se podría utilizar como un complemento para la determinación de la DVO en hombres y mujeres.
Biodanza, oportunidad para el desarrollo de habilidades en niños con Síndrome de Down
Authors:   , Reyes Lopez Daniela Carolina
Published: October 2024

La Biodanza, es una propuesta terapéutica reciente con diferentes alcances en la salud y bienestar de diferentes grupos etarios. En la experiencia de niños con habilidades diferentes, la literatura considera que es un complemento ideal para el reforzamiento de habilidades orientadas al manejo de emociones y desarrollo de autonomía. Por ello, esta investigación tuvo como objetivo principal la de identificar los alcances de la Biodanza en el proceso de enseñanza de los niños con Síndrome de Down. El estudio tiene un enfoque cualitativo de tipo exploratorio y con un diseño fenomenológico. La muestra se conformó por 5 expertos en Biodanza y 6 padres de familia con al menos un hijo con Síndrome de Down y que hayan participado en el proceso de aprendizajes mediados por la técnica de la Biodanza. Los instrumentos que se utilizaron para el recojo de información fue un Cuestionario y una guía de entrevista semiestructurada. El procesamiento de la información se realizó con la asistencia del programa ATLAS. ti, la cual fue importante organizar y reducir la información que nos permita responder a los objetivos planteados. Los aspectos éticos considerados trabajados fueron principio de autonomía, bien común y principio de honestidad y responsabilidad. Después de la recolección y el análisis, se concluyó que la Biodanza, en el proceso de enseñanza de estos niños y niñas, beneficia en su socialización y sus formas de comunicación, desarrollo de habilidades rutinarias y autocuidado. Las líneas de vivencias que se trabajan principalmente en este rubro son la creatividad, vitalidad y afectividad, así mismo estos aportan en su autoestima y autonomía.
Optimizing Well Production Through Multiphase Vertical Flow Regime Understanding for More Effective Downhole Gas Separation
Authors: Krell Scott
Published: October 2024

The efficient extraction of oil that is free from gas is a complex process that has historically been oversimplified. By oversimplified, I mean that the industry as a whole has relied on the research and data that states that gas break out from fluid happens at 6″/s bubble rise velocity. We have learned with the maturity of wells and over production tactics, that more is happening beyond the 6″/s baseline thinking. We have learned that gas issues and handling now involves the understanding and management of multiphase flow regimes. Understanding the phase at which the flow is occurring is crucial for optimizing production, especially when utilizing downhole gas separators. This research paper explores the concept of using the not only the annulus but also the entire bottom hole assembly of a rod pumped well to better manage gas interference. It also explores the importance of comprehending multiphase vertical flow regimes and how they occur.
FAT vs SIT Mechanical Seal Testing
Authors: Kappelhoff G. H. , Cameron R. , Bernedo J. , Cumming H.
Published: October 2024

Components of an ESP undergo testing prior to and during assembly. A factory acceptance test (FAT) occurs with criteria designed to ensure components operate satisfactorily. At times, a system integration test (SIT) will also be undertaken operating the assembled components in a loaded condition. This paper primarily focuses on the protector/seal which passes all testing, including the FAT but fails post SIT testing due to unacceptable levels of contamination inside the upper bag. This paper covers the findings from two sets of SITs conducted at separate facilities and demonstrates leaking occurs in the protector/seal that is not accounted for in the pre-SIT testing criteria.
Experience of Production Increases in High Run Life Wells by Injection Optimization and the Inclusion of PMM Technology
Authors: Pino F. R. , Siri E. G. , Maldonado G. E. , Orozco M.
Published: October 2024

Optimizing extensive ESP fields is a mandatory task in terms of carbon footprint and efficiency. The main goal is to keep the equipment running with the best efficiency as long as possible, acknowledging the ESP will show normal wear due to the operation. This analysis focuses on enhancing energy efficiency, allowing the definition of the true production capabilities by comparing operating conditions related to the motor technologies available for generating the best opportunities of improvement.

By observing the well production response to increased injection in a seemingly optimized condition, it was proceeded to replace the ESP, incorporating PMM technology and a downhole sensor. This enabled us to:

Define the actual IPR curve Simulate the condition on the extracted equipment (IM without a downhole sensor) Validate the deviation in ESP system efficiency Verify ESP wear through bench testing

This approach allows for a comparison of extraction efficiency and the impact of wear associated with extended equipment run life.

Based on the study findings, it is inferred that in ESPs with extended run life (>2000 days), wear leads to a decline in energy and production efficiency, reducing efficiency by up to 18.6%. These results prompt preventive measures to optimize wells, boosting production without significantly altering energy consumption. This is achievable by transitioning to PMM-equipped systems, significantly enhancing overall efficiency. With these results, preventive actions can be taken to adapt the wells and obtain an increase in production without considerably modifying energy consumption. This is possible through changing technology, installing PMM equipment and significantly improving the efficiency of the system. In addition, it allows capturing production that was not considered, establishing the correct extractive status of the well. Additionally, the impact on energy efficiency contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions and improvement in specific consumption (KW/m3/d). Ultimately, assessing a well's extractive condition considering wear, reduced lifting capacity, and increased power consumption of an ESP is crucial. This approach facilitates well adaptation planning, minimizing downtime impact, enhancing system efficiency, and capturing additional oil in genuinely underexploited wells, thus preventing equipment failure

This analysis provides an opportunity to accurately measure production status and true well potential. Enhancing extraction in these cases can significantly boost oil production (69% of increase in total fluid and about 150% in terms of net oil). The comparison performed considers post injection changes versus adequation of the system installing motors with PMM technology also around 17% savings in terms of energy are reached.
ESP Edge Analytics and Control to Optimize Efficiency While Automating Flow Targets at Site
Authors: Funes M. S. , Albori M. M.
Published: October 2024

Optimization of Electrical Submersible Pump (ESP) systems is critical in enhancing production and maintaining healthy system integrity. Edge analytics can allow for the following functions to be performed on site (at the edge); ESP system control, automatic production optimization, system stabilization for challenging applications and power consumption optimization. Automating/controlling the system at the edge eliminates possible communication issues that could be faced through conventional remote adjustment methods.

Edge analytic process control can be programed in the field to automatically adjust the VFC Volt/Hz ratio output to achieve the desired flowrate while delivering the optimal voltage to the motor maximizing motor load and optimizing motor efficiency. ESP motor efficiency is optimized by operating at the required pump speed and the recommended motor load, above 70% in the most common motor of 2 poles AC triphasic induction. Motor load can be increased by changing motor voltage and therefore adjusting nominal horsepower (HP) to be closer to required break horsepower (BHP).

The implementation of this methodology with edge analytics control system can help to achieve production targets. The first objective is to maintain production sustainability in a reliable and efficient way. The second one is to minimize the power consumption by operating the system at optimal efficiency. In addition, these objectives are attained with no onsite surveillance or intervention apart from initial set-up and adjustments when needed. Well flowrate, wellhead pressure, wellhead temperature, VFC parameters and downhole sensor data is communicated in real time to the edge analytics control system. The programing will use a set of algorithms to control VFC output Voltage/Frequency to achieve a flowrate target desire. The control will be conditioned to min/max limits on critical parameters to maintain the ESP inside its Recommended Operating Range (ROR).

Using Edge technology to automate the optimization of ESP systems should improve the ability to maintain sustainable production in an efficient and reliable way. This paper aims to shed light on the subject of using edge analytics to automate and optimize the process through ESP operating parameter adjustments.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Energy Saving Through the Implementation of Long Stroke Units in Field A: Mitigating High Failure Rates for Sustainable Deployment
Authors: Al Shukaili Ghosin , Al Kindi Said , Rady Haytham , Al Hatmi Fahad , Al Ajmi Ahmed , Al Riyami Yaqoob , Al Lawati Mehdi , Al Ghadani Adnan , Al Sawafi Mohammed , Al Matroushi Saif
Published: October 2024

Field A, the largest cluster in Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), faced a significant challenge with a high overall artificial lift failure index, surpassing industry standards at 28% in 2020. The primary contributors to this index were beam pump (BP) wells. In response, a comprehensive workshop was conducted involving all stakeholders to address the issue of artificial lift failures. Field A's artificial lift fail-less strategy was formulated and implemented as a result of this workshop. A long stroke unit (LSU) was deployed in Field A as a result of the persistently high failure rates for conventional beam pump units (BP), which exceeded 32% in 2020. In an effort to mitigate these challenges, a series of successful trials were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of LSU, which led to the conversion of 70 conventional BP units to LSUs between 2020 and 2023.

The results obtained from the deployment of LSU in Field A showcased significantly improved run life, indicated by a reduction in failure index. This increase in reliability contributed to the avoidance of subsurface deferments due to less failures and tripping, resulting in estimated additional production of 320 bbl/d.

Additionally, LSUs reduced the number of well interventions, primarily due to fewer failures. It resulted in a substantial improvement in the life cycle of the wells, saving $2.94 million annually.

As a result of the deployment of LSUs, power savings were also achieved. In comparison to conventional BP units, LSU demonstrated a remarkable 40% reduction in power consumption, resulting in a significant decrease in carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by 4575 tCO2e since LSUs deployment.

This successful implementation not only addressed high failure rates but also enhanced system reliability, reduced corrective maintenance, lowered power consumption, and effectively reduced oil deferment. This abstract outlines these positive outcomes, the challenges faced during implementation, and strategies used to overcome them. Additionally, it presents a roadmap for deploying LSUs across Field ‘A, with plans for over 150 LSUs installation in the next five years. The study provides valuable insights for the oil and gas industry, showcasing the potential for wide adoption of LSUs to enhance performance in similar fields.
Innovative Approach in ESP Power Optimization for Large Field
Authors: Winarno M. B. , Eissa M. A. , Flores M. R. A. Ramos , Khalifah M. A. , Isichei O. L. , Malki S. S.
Published: October 2024

Electric Submersible Pump (ESP) is very popular artificial lift method to produce at high production rate. However, ESP power consumption is costly and mandate proper optimization to operate at the optimal condition. ESP energy optimization directly improve operational efficiency and reduces lifting cost and greenhouse gas emission.

The ESP power optimization is challenging exercise and requires involvement from multiple organizations. The process has to go through excess of possible combinations of surface choke valve positions and pump speed until reaching an optimized setting. Optimization of ESP operations helps operators to meet production target while maximizing the efficiency of the pump operation. However, it cannot be achieved easily, especially where time and resources are scarce. An innovative approach capitalizing the digital-twin model and artificial intelligence technologies to optimize the ESP performance and adhering to the environmental challenges of reducing CO2 emission has been introduced to expedite the optimization process.

The new approach automatically utilizes ESP real time data, ESP installation data along with the well model to determine the ESP's optimal WHP and ESP frequency. The modelling will be automatically updated based on real time data and provide predictions of recommended operation frequency and optimum wellhead pressure, which is translated to choke size, to operate the ESP at BEP (Best Efficiency Point) and to maximize production rate and minimize power consumption. The optimization process has been implemented in the field resulting in a significant power consumption saving and CO2 emission reduction. Further gains are also expected from ESP performance, resulting in longer ESP run life and reduce number of workover cost.

This paper will share the ESP optimization journey using the advisory tool from obtaining the data, performing the calculations, providing the recommendations, and field implementation of these recommendations.

The best practices and lessons learnt were captured as a reference for future ESP power optimization advisory tool enhancement.
Numerical Method Implementation to Determine the Volumetric Expansion of Dielectric Oil Through the Motor and Protectors Configurations in ESP Systems
Authors: Escobar C. , Zuluaga J. , Muriel J. , Serrano J. , Muñoz J. , Hernandez M.
Published: October 2024

Resume

This study provides an analysis of the functions of protector/seals in electric submersible pump (ESP) applications and explores how different configurations impact the calculation of the volumetric expansion of dielectric oil. A systematic procedure has been developed to assess this expansion, including evaluating the behavior of the oil through the seals and motor under real operational conditions. This procedure has been validated through an experimental approach, confirming the accuracy and reliability of the proposed calculation method.

The document also includes a thorough sensitivity analysis, examining how various parameters influence system performance. This analysis has led to the development of specific recommendations for the design and selection of seals, aimed at mitigating failures associated with thermal cycles in ESP systems. The recommendations derived from the study are intended to optimize equipment design, enhance operational efficiency, and extend the lifespan of the systems.

In conclusion, this work provides a methodological framework for calculating volumetric expansion in ESP systems and offers practical method based on detailed analysis and experimentation to address thermal challenges associated with these systems. The proposed recommendations have the potential to significantly reduce operational failures and improve the reliability of electric submersible pump systems in various industrial applications.
Topological classification of cycloadditions occurring on-surface and in the solid-state
Authors: Palma Carlos-Andres , Li Juan , Mirzanejad Amir , Dong Wen-Han , Liu Kun , Richter Marcus , Wang Xiao-Ye , Berger Reinhard , Du Shixuan , Auwärter Willi , Barth Johannes V. , Ma Ji , Müllen Klaus , Feng Xinliang , Sun Jiatao , Muechler Lukas
Published: October 2024

The study of cycloaddition mechanisms is central to the fabrication of extended sp2 carbon nanostructures such as spin-chains. Reaction modeling in this context has focused mostly on putative, energetically preferred, exothermic products with limited consideration for symmetry allowed or forbidden mechanistic effects. To classify and optimize allowed reaction mechanisms modern topological tools can be explored. Here, we introduce a scheme for classifying symmetry-forbidden reaction coordinates in Woodward-Hoffmann correlation diagrams. Topological classifiers grant access to the study of reaction pathways and correlation diagrams in the same footing, for the purpose of elucidating mechanisms and products of polycyclic aromatic azomethine ylide (PAMY) cycloadditions with pentacene–yielding polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with an isoindole core in the solid-state and on surfaces, as characterized by mass spectrometry and scanning tunneling microscopy, respectively. By means of a tight-binding reaction model and density functional theory (DFT) we find topologically-allowed pathways for an endothermic reaction mechanism. Our work unveils topological classification as a crucial element of reaction modeling for nanographene engineering, and highlights its fundamental role in the design of cycloadditions in on-surface and solid-state chemical reactions, while underscoring that exothermic pathways can be topologically-forbidden.
A mystery solved: human high-frequency middle-ear motion
Authors: McHugh Christopher , Ravicz Michael , Secchia Paul , Graf Lukas , Cho Nam-Hyun , Nakajima Hideko
Published: October 2024

The middle ear transforms sound from low-impedance external air to high-impedance cochlear fluid. However, the human stapes – the input to the cochlea – has been reported to have minimal or no motion above ~ 4 kHz. For decades, this lack of observed high-frequency stapes motion has been puzzling, as it is inconsistent with our ability to hear up to 20 kHz. In this study we address this mysterious discrepancy. Here, we succeed in measuring robust high-frequency stapes motion up to 20 kHz in fresh human cadaveric ears. Furthermore, when stapes motion is robust at high frequencies, these ears also show robust cochlear partition motion measured in situ. The ability to measure robust high-frequency stapes and cochlear motion represents an advancement in the field. To preserve high-frequency sound transmission, we modify surgical technique to prevent loosening of the ossicular chain. This implies that similar modifications in otologic surgery for patients may better preserve high-frequency hearing. The importance of this is that the ability to understand speech in noisy environments and sound localization requires high-frequency hearing.
Learning digital twin: case study on chatter suppression based on a time varying stability map
Authors: Zhou Zhibo , Walther Michael , Verl Alexander
Published: October 2024

Purpose:Chatter is a frequent problem during machining operations. It significantly influences the machining quality. A stability lobe diagram (SLD) can be utilized to avoid chatter. However, the generated SLD should be frequently modified because it is influenced by different time-varying factors, e.g., wear. In this work, we propose a new method for the generation of SLD considering its variation process.Methods:The SLD is generated by a learning digital twin (LDT). We first propose the structure of the LDT. Two algorithms based on concept drift are proposed to detect the drift of the physical machine. A new hybrid model structure is proposed and used to simulate the behavior of the physical machine. The modified SLD is then generated by the evaluation of the simulated behavior of the hybrid model.Results:The results show that the change in SLD can be correctly detected. The modification of the SLD also receives high accuracy.Conclusion:We conclude that the LDT can be utilized for the generation of SLD and remains high accuracy in the life time of the physical machine.
A Case Report: Iridociliary Melanocytoma Associated with Secondary Glaucoma
Authors: Sun Yi , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhu Jing , Guo Juan , Wang Zhanfeng
Published: October 2024

Background
Distinguishing between benign iridociliary melanocytoma and malignant melanoma presents a diagnostic challenge, particularly given the potential overlap in tumor growth patterns and clinical manifestations, especially when patients present with secondary glaucoma. Misdiagnosis may induce severe clinical consequences, including enucleation. Therefore, the judicious selection of biopsy or surgical techniques is crucial in both diagnosing and managing the condition.
Case presentation: A 44-year-old female presented with uncontrolled elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and a heavily pigmented iris lesion extending into the anterior chamber angle and adjacent ciliary body. Unexpectedly, standardized initial fine-needle aspiration biopsy yielded inconclusive results. Subsequent excisional surgery (partial iridocyclectomy and concurrent phacoemulsification) was performed to remove the tumor mass and treat cataract. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis as melanocytoma. Lens implantation followed upon normalization of IOP within 8 months. At the 2-year follow-up, the patient exhibited a satisfactory clinical outcome, with no tumor recurrence, achieving a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/40 and an intraocular pressure of 18.5 mmHg.
Conclusions
This case underscores the importance of obtaining adequate tumor specimens for accurate diagnosis via fine-needle aspiration biopsy in iris and ciliary body tumors. Additionally, for patients with secondary glaucoma, partial iridocyclectomy emerges as a promising intervention, addressing anterior chamber angle obstruction to alleviate intraocular pressure while facilitating histopathological diagnosis for subsequent management.
Environmentally relevant concentrations of butachlor inhibited the development of the green toad (Bufotes sitibundus) during the incubation period
Authors: Pesarakloo Alireza , Zarei Zahra , Mirkamali Sayed Jamal , Esmaeilbeigi Milad
Published: October 2024

Butachlor is one of the most widely used herbicides in agricultural areas throughout the world. Studies have measured the toxicity of butachlor in single life stages of amphibians, however, less attention has been paid to the impacts of this herbicide on various life stages. Therefore, we collected the eggs of the green toad Bufotes sitibundus from a clean environment with no history of pesticides. We then exposed the collected eggs to the environmentally relevant concentrations of butachlor and measured the growth, survival, and development of green toad during the incubation period. We also measured five different responses i.e., length at the beginning of metamorphosis (LBM), length at the formation of forelimb bud (LFF), length at the end of metamorphosis (LEM), weight at the beginning of metamorphosis (WBM), and weight at the end of metamorphosis (WEM) during the incubation period. The survival rate showed an indirect relationship with butachlor concentrations. The longest development duration was recorded for toads reared in the control (110 days), while the shortest duration (9 days) was observed in the highest butachlor concentration (i.e., 1.5 mg/L), with the highest mortality recorded in this treatment. with all the eggs being died at days 11 and 9 after the start of incubation. We found a significant difference between the survival of toads in butachlor treatments and the control group (P < 0.05). We observed a significant difference between treatments and the control group in LBM, LFF, LEM, and WEM (P < 0.05), except WBM (P > 0.05). Our findings highlight that butachlor at environmentally relevant concentrations inhibited the development of the green toad and mitigated the survival of eggs and larvae, resulting in the unsuccessful completion of the development before metamorphosis as a critical life stage.
Gender Disparities in Tobacco, Alcohol Consumption and Dietary Diversity Among Indian Adults (15-49): Insights from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) 2019-21
Authors: Yadav-Jagtap Priyanka , Saikia Nandita
Published: October 2024

Background
Understanding gender-specific health behaviors is crucial for assessing mortality risk factors. In India, the paucity of data has hindered research in this area. This study fills this gap by investigating gender differences in smoking, alcohol consumption, and diversified dietary habits among Indian adults. This study further explored the differences in gender-specific health behaviors among rural urban areas.
Methods
Using data from the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS-5) 2019-21, we analyzed individuals aged 15–49 years via bivariate and multivariate statistical techniques. We carried out binary logistic regression to assess the likelihood of engaging in these behaviors on the basis of gender and other socioeconomic factors.
Results
According to the NFHS-5 data, tobacco use is substantially greater among men (42.19%) than among women (6.5%), and alcohol consumption is also more prevalent among men (25.43%) than among women (1.87%). Men demonstrate greater dietary diversity, with 28.25% consuming diverse foods, whereas 23.6% of women do so. Gender dynamics remain consistent when differences by rural and urban residence are analyzed. However, rural men consume more alcohol and tobacco substances than their urban counterparts do (34.3% vs. 31.2%), whereas rural women have lower dietary diversity than urban women do (21.3% vs. 30.7%). Notably, the use of smokeless tobacco among women (5.53%) exceeds that of smokers (0.52%), with this difference being more pronounced in rural areas.
Conclusion
This study highlights significant gender disparities in health behaviors among Indian adults. Men are more likely to consume substances such as alcohol and tobacco (25.6 times higher, 95% CI: 24.29 26.12) but have better dietary diversity (1.34 times higher, 95% CI: 1.31 1.37) than women. Rural areas are disadvantaged in terms of a higher prevalence of consuming these substances, especially in men, and a lower percentage of people eat diverse diets, especially women, whereas urban areas present relative advantages. Targeted, gender-specific health interventions are needed, particularly in rural settings, to address these disparities and promote healthier lifestyles.
Development of a Patient-Centered Symptom-Reporting Application in Pharmacy Settings Utilizing a Hierarchical Patient-friendly Symptom List
Authors: Watanabe Seiya , Kizaki Hayato , Hori Satoko
Published: October 2024

Background:
Effective symptom identification, a key responsibility for community pharmacists, require patients to describe their symptoms. However, current practices may be insufficient in capturing patient-reported symptoms comprehensively. This study aimed to develop an application integrating a hierarchical list of symptoms to facilitate symptom reporting by patients in pharmacy settings.
Methods:
Subjective symptom-related terms were extracted from the Patient-Friendly Term List version 23.0 of the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA®). These terms were consolidated and organized into a hierarchical, user-friendly symptom list. An application incorporating this list was developed for pharmacy settings, featuring a symptom-selection interface and free-text input field for additional symptoms. Usability tests and semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants aged over 20 years. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to evaluate factors influencing the acceptance of technology.
Results:
In total, 795 terms, selected from the Patient-Friendly Term List, were organized into 40 site-specific subcategories and grouped into broader site categories. These terms were consolidated into 211 patient-friendly symptom terms, forming a hierarchical symptom list. The symptom-reporting application, including a free-text input option, was tested by five adults. Participants found the interface intuitive and easy to use, requiring minimal effort, and provided positive feedback regarding the potential utility of the application in pharmacy settings.
Conclusion:
The user-friendly application with a hierarchically structured symptom list and complementary free-text entry has potential benefits for improving the accuracy and efficiency of symptom reporting, thus enhancing communication between patients and pharmacists.
Abortion Legalization, Son Preference, and Intensified Sex Selection in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Santosh
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the causal relationship between Nepal's 2002 abortion legalization and sex-biased fertility decisions. Despite the ban on neonatal sex identification, strong son preferences may drive some couples to influence service providers for prenatal sex identification. Analyzing six rounds of DHS data, we find clear evidence of sex-biased abortions in Nepal. Couples without a son are more likely to influence the sex of subsequent children. Following abortion legalization, having a firstborn girl reduces the probability of a girl in the second birth by 2.5 percentage points. The effect grows with higher-order births: not having a son in the first two births reduces the likelihood of a girl in the third birth by 6–8 percentage points, while in the fourth birth, among women with three previous daughters, the likelihood decreases by 8–12 percentage points. There is substantial heterogeneity in the impacts of abortion legalization: sex selection rises significantly among women with at least a primary education and those from wealthier households. Additionally, sex selection is more prevalent in Hindu communities, particularly among Hill Brahmins and Chhetris than in other ethnic groups. These findings highlight the importance of accompanying changes in abortion legislation with population policies that incentivize couples to not engage in sex-selective abortions, ensuring that reproductive rights do not inadvertently reinforce existing gender inequalities.
JEL Codes: J11, J13
scE2EGAE: Enhancing Single-cell RNA-Seq Data Analysis through an End-to-End Cell-Graph-Learnable Graph Autoencoder with Differentiable Edge Sampling
Authors: Wang Shuo , Liu Yuanning , Zhang Hao , Liu Zhen
Published: October 2024

Background: Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) technology reveals biological processes and molecular-level genomic information among individual cells. Numerous computational methods, including methods based on graph neural networks (GNNs), have been developed to enhance scRNA-Seq data analysis. However, existing GNNs-based methods usually construct fixed graphs by applying the k-nearest neighbors (KNN) algorithm, which may result in information loss.
Methods: To address this problem, we propose scE2EGAE, which learns cell graphs during the training processes. Firstly, the scRNA-Seq data is fed into a deep count autoencoder (DCA). Secondly, the hidden representations of DCA are extracted and then used to generate cell-to-cell graph edges through a straight-through estimator based on top-k sampling and Gumbel-softmax. Finally, the generated cell-to-cell graph and scRNA-Seq data are fed into the GNNs-based downstream tasks. In this paper, we design a graph autoencoder which performs denoising on scRNA-Seq data as the downstream task.
Results: We evaluate scE2EGAE on eight public scRNA-Seq datasets and compare its performance with seven existing scRNA-Seq data denoising methods. In this paper, extensive experiments are conducted, encompassing: 1) the evaluation of denoising performance, with metrics including mean absolute error (MAE), Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), and cosine similarity (CS); 2) the assessment of clustering performance of the denoised results, utilizing adjusted rand index (ARI) and normalized mutual information (NMI); and 3) the evaluation of the cell trajectory inference performance of the denoised results, measured by the pseudo-temporal ordering score (POS). The results show that scE2EGAE outperforms most of the methods, proving that it can learn cell-to-cell graphs containing real information of cell-to-cell relationships.
Conclusions: In this paper, we validate the proposed scE2EGAE method through its application to the denoising task of scRNA-Seq data. This method demonstrates its capability to learn inter-cellular relationships and construct cell-to-cell graphs, thereby enhancing downstream analysis of scRNA-Seq data. Our approach can serve as an inspiration for future research on scRNA-Seq analysis methods based on GNNs, holding broad application prospects.
A pilot chronic low back program for Ezidi refugees is feasible and effective: a waitlist-controlled study
Authors: Joo Baeho , Marquez Jodie , Young Ashley , Osmotherly Peter
Published: October 2024

Background
Persistent musculoskeletal pain is the most commonly reported health problem in refugees and asylum seekers. In an Ezidi settlement region in Australia, the physiotherapy department received a high number of referrals for the treatment of chronic low back pain. Group programs to manage low back pain have been shown to be effective in the general population. However, application of in this refugee population has not previously been reported.
Objective
We aimed to evaluate a group program tailored for, and administered to, Ezidi refugees with chronic low back pain.
Methods
This was a waitlist-controlled trial. All adult Ezidi refugees who were referred to physiotherapy for management of chronic low back pain were invited to join a group program where they participated in multidisciplinary education and exercise sessions for 8 weeks. The COMI-back tool was used to evaluate health related benefits of the program and a post program survey collected satisfaction data.
Results
Seventeen people consented, and 14 completed the program with 10 participating in at least 50% of the program. The differences between before and after the waiting time was not statistically significant (p = 0.33). The pre-post program score differences for the 17 recruits, the 14 participants who completed the program, and the ten who were compliant with at least 50% of the program were all statistically significant (p < 0.01, < 0.01, < 0.01), and the median of differences at the end of the program was − 1.2 (IQR = -3.5–0), -2.28 (IQR = -3.55 - -0.2) and − 3.33 (IQR = -3.6 - -1.5) for each group respectively. The median changes in the 14 completers and 10 high attenders exceeded the minimal detectable change (MDC) of 1.7 on the COMI-back tool. For the high attenders, the median of differences (-1.98, IQR = -3.4 - -1) remained statistically significant (p < 0.01) at 3-month follow-up. High satisfaction with the program was reported with no negative feedback or adverse events.
Conclusions
The chronic low back pain program was feasible to conduct and acceptable to Ezidi refugees. Those who completed the program demonstrated statistically and clinically worthwhile improvements in the measured health indicators and those with the highest compliance with the program, achieved the best results.
Efficient Model-based Deep Learning via Network Pruning and Fine-Tuning
Authors: Park Chicago Y. , Gan Weijie , Zou Zihao , Hu Yuyang , Sun Zhixin , Kamilov Ulugbek S.
Published: October 2024

Model-based deep learning (MBDL) is a powerful methodology for designing deep models to solve imaging inverse problems. MBDL networks can be seen as iterative algorithms that estimate the desired image using a physical measurement model and a learned image prior specified using a convolutional neural net (CNNs). The iterative nature of MBDL networks increases the test-time computational complexity, which limits their applicability in certain large-scale applications. Here we make two contributions to address this issue: First, we show how structured pruning can be adopted to reduce the number of parameters in MBDL networks. Second, we present three methods to fine-tune the pruned MBDL networks to mitigate potential performance loss. Each fine-tuning strategy has a unique benefit that depends on the presence of a pre-trained model and a high-quality ground truth. We show that our pruning and fine-tuning approach can accelerate image reconstruction using popular deep equilibrium learning (DEQ) and deep unfolding (DU) methods by 50% and 32%, respectively, with nearly no performance loss. This work thus offers a step forward for solving inverse problems by showing the potential of pruning to improve the scalability of MBDL.
Exploring Small Airway Disease in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Patients: Insights from Oscillometry Analysis
Authors: Kotsiou¹ Ourania S. , Kirgou² Paraskevi , Dimeas Ilias E. , Gourgoulianis² Konstantinos I. , Daniil² Zoe
Published: October 2024

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease characterized by lung scarring. Recent evidence suggests that small airway dysfunction (SAD) contributes to IPF pathogenesis. This study assessed SAD in IPF patients using oscillometry and examined associations with disease severity and cardiovascular comorbidity.
Methods: Forty-eight IPF patients were included in this cross-sectional study. Lung function was assessed using forced oscillation technique (FOT) and impulse oscillometry (IOS), spirometry, plethysmography, and DLCO measurements. Key parameters, including AX, Fres, and R5-R20, were analyzed. Correlations between oscillometry parameters, disease severity indices (GAP index, MRC dyspnea score), and coronary artery disease (CAD) risk were evaluated.
Results: Elevated R5-R20 was observed in 65% of patients (FOT) and 60% (IOS). Increased Fres was found in 94% (FOT) and 90% (IOS), while AX was elevated in all participants. Significant correlations were found between AX and DLCO% (r = -0.502, p < 0.001), and between Fres and DLCO% (r = -0.705, p < 0.001). Higher AX was associated with increased CAD score (r = 0.283, p = 0.045), while improved lung compliance (less negative X5) correlated with a lower CAD score (r = -0.314, p = 0.037). No significant correlations were found between oscillometry parameters and GAP or MRC scores.
Conclusion: SAD is prevalent in IPF and is associated with impaired gas exchange and increased cardiovascular risk. Oscillometry provides valuable insights into lung stiffness and small airway resistance, particularly in cases where spirometric abnormalities may not be evident, supporting its use in monitoring disease progression in IPF.
Exploring the Biochemical Landscape of Bacterial Medium with Pyruvate as the Exclusive Carbon Source for NMR Studies
Authors: Dağ Çağdaş , Kahraman Kerem
Published: October 2024

The use of Escherichia coli for recombinant protein production is a cornerstone in structural biology, particularly for nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy studies. Understanding the metabolic behavior of E. coli under different carbon sources is critical for optimizing isotope labeling strategies, which are essential for protein structure determination by NMR. Recent advancements, such as mixed pyruvate labeling, have enabled improved backbone resonance assignment in large proteins, making selective isotopic labeling strategies more important than ever for NMR studies​. In this study, we aimed to investigate the metabolic adaptations of E. coli when grown on pyruvate as the sole carbon source, a common condition used to achieve selective labeling for NMR spectroscopy. Using NMR-based metabolomics, we tracked key metabolic shifts throughout the culture process to better understand how pyruvate metabolism affects protein production and isotopic labeling.Our results reveal that pyruvate is rapidly depleted before IPTG induction, while acetate and lactate accumulate due to overflow metabolism. These byproducts persist after induction, indicating that pyruvate is diverted into waste pathways, which limits its efficient use in isotope incorporation. This metabolic inefficiency presents a challenge for isotopic labeling protocols that rely on pyruvate as a carbon source for NMR studies. Our results highlight the need to fine-tune pyruvate supplementation to improve metabolic efficiency and isotopic labeling, making this study directly relevant to optimizing protocols for NMR studies involving protein structure determination. These insights provide valuable guidance for enhancing the quality and yield of isotopically labeled proteins in NMR spectroscopy.
Who are the hard-to-reach population? Spatial analysis from a cross-sectional study on the access to bed net and malaria vaccine in the Lake Victoria Region, Kenya
Authors: Ko Yura K , Kagaya Wataru , Yoneoka Daisuke , Kongere James , Opiyo Victor , Oginga Jared , Omondi Protus , Musyoka Kelvin B. , Chan Chim W. , Kanoi Bernard N. , Gitaka Jesse , Kaneko Akira
Published: October 2024

Background
Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) and vaccines are effective malaria control tools. However, inadequate uptake has been reported in countries where both interventions are available. To maximize the impact these tools provide, it is crucial to identify populations that are not being reached and the barriers to uptake.
Methods
In a cross-sectional study conducted in April 2024 in Kanyamwa Kologi Ward in Homa Bay County, Kenya, 4,662 households in 58 randomely selected villages were visited and interviewed. We examined the proportions of households that: 1) received at least one new LLIN within the previous five months (net distribution), 2) reported all children used LLIN (net usage), 3) reported at least one child had received one dose of the RTS,S vaccine (vaccine uptake), and 4) reported all children had received four doses of the vaccine (vaccine completion). Bayesian spatial autoregression analyses were used to identify the association and its credible intervals (CrI) between the household-level characteristics and the four outcomes.
Results
The overall uptake proportions were 89.9% for net distribution, 84.4% for net usage, 88.2% for vaccine uptake, and 53.7% for vaccine completion. All four outcomes showed geographical heterogeneity with significant (p < 0.05) Moran's I. Households headed by adults of >40 years had higher odds of having received a new LLIN (OR=1.85, 95% CrI 0.93–4.61), having one child who had received one vaccine dose (OR=1.83, 0.69–4.66), and having all children fully vaccinated (OR=2.36, 1.09–5.46), but lower odds of net usage by all children (OR=0.62, 0.40–0.96). Households with five or more children had higher odds of having received a new LLIN (OR=5.51, 1.69–53.8) but lower odds of net usage by all children (OR=0.24, 0.14–0.38) and having all children fully vaccinated (OR=0.20, 0.04–0.61). Distance to the nearest health center was negatively associated with all outcomes. Household wealth was positively associated with all outcomes.
Conclusion
Uptake of LLIN and malaria vaccine in Homa Bay County, Kenya varied by geography and household characteristics. These findings suggest the need for targeted, outcome-specific interventions to enhance overall public health policy uptake in malaria prevention.
Groundwater Recharge Modeling at Godagari using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT)
Authors: Tithi Sumaia Ahmed , Bari Md. Niamul
Published: October 2024

Accurately assessing groundwater recharge is vital for effective water resource management, especially in low rainfall regions facing declining groundwater levels. This project developed a SWAT model in Godagari, northern Bangladesh, to estimate groundwater recharge from 1991 to 2022, using various geographical and climatic data. The model revealed that only 119.01 mm of the average annual rainfall of 1272.72 mm recharges the groundwater, with simulated annual recharge ranging from 83.89 to 194.78 mm. The model showed satisfactory performance, indicating SWAT's effectiveness in assessing groundwater recharge and informing sustainable water management policies like zoning and water harvesting.
Experimental realization of two qubit teleportation and four bit dense coding
Authors: P Sayuj. , Paul Ben T , Randeep N. C.
Published: October 2024

Quantum teleportation and dense coding are quantum tasks in which an unknown quantum state sends from one location to another in first one and a classical bits sends between two locations in the later. We introduce a quantum circuit for creating generalized Bell states discussed by Gustavo Rigolin (PRA 71, 032303 (2005)). We develop appropriate quantum circuit for realizing two qubits teleportation and four bits dense coding. We experimentally demonstrate these circuits in IBM quantum computer and calculate fidelity of teleportation and efficiency of dense coding.
Editorial
Authors: Heubach Katja
Published: October 2024

Grußwort der Palmengarten-Direktorin
Wenn die Nektarbar geöffnet ist
Authors: Steinecke Hilke
Published: October 2024

Viele Bestäuber werden erst mit Einsetzen der Abenddämmerung aktiv. Nachtblüher sind perfekt an diese Besucher angepasst.
Von Fledermausblumen und Blumenfledermäusen
Authors: Tschapka Marco
Published: October 2024

In den Tropen beteiligen sich neben Insekten und Vögeln auch Fledermäuse an der Bestäubung. Die von ihnen besuchten Pflanzen weisen eine Reihe spezieller Anpassungen auf.
"Wir müssen den Ökosystemen mehr Freiraum geben" - Interview mit Prof. Nico Blüthgen
Authors: Hahn Rebecca
Published: October 2024

Als Leiter der Arbeitsgruppe Ökologische Netzwerke an der Technischen Universität Darmstadt geht Prof. Nico Blüthgen den Ursachen des globalen Insektensterbens auf den Grund. Im Interview erzählt er, was wir Dungkäfern und Ameisen verdanken, welche Rolle die Landwirtschaft und der Klimawandel spielen und warum er trotz allem optimistisch bleibt, dass dem Artenschwund noch Einhalt geboten werden kann.
Hummeln im Fitness-Check
Authors: Hahn Rebecca
Published: October 2024

Wie andere Bestäuber stehen Hummeln unter zunehmendem Stress - mit negativen Folgen für ihre Gesundheit und Vermehrung. Versuche an der Universität Münster zeigen, wie sich die Bestäuber unterstützen lassen.
Bestäuber oder Beute?
Authors: Sack Nastasja , Braun Johannes
Published: October 2024

Fliegen, Mücken und andere Insekten gehen fleischfressenden Pflanzen regelmäßig in die Falle. Die tierische Beute liefert den sogenannten Insektivoren, die meist auf stickstoffarmen Böden wachsen, reichlich Stickstoff. Gleichzeitig müssen aber auch die meisten fleischfressenden Pflanzen von Insekten bestäubt werden. Wie verhindern sie, dass sie potenzielle Bestäuber fangen?
Bei den meisten Arten befinden sich die Blüten an langen Stielen weit oberhalb der Fallen. Einige fleischfressende Pflanzen blühen außerdem bereits, bevor sie ihre Fallen ausbilden. Auch unterschiedliche Lockmittel können dabei helfen, dass die Pflanzen sowohl Bestäuber als auch Beutetiere anziehen: Während die Blüten ihren Besuchern Nektar und Pollen bieten, locken die Fallen durch ihre Färbung oder ihren Duft Beutetiere an.
Hinhören und einfühlen
Authors: Hahn Rebecca
Published: October 2024

Der Klangkünstler Lasse-Marc Riek schafft Hörerlebnisse, durch die sich sein Publikum mit der Natur verbinden kann.