bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing retailer’s order and financing decisions on an e-commercial platform considering cash flow
Authors: Yang Honglin , Yu Yue
Published: September 2023

The mismatch in cash flow often distorts business operational decisions and even lead to bankruptcy for enterprises. This paper investigates the order and financing decisions of a capital constrained retailer who borrows from an e-commerce platform to fund its business operations. The ecommercial platform, which has full capital, provides three financing schemes: (1) lump-sum repayment (scheme L), (2) average capital plus interest repayment (scheme P), and (3) average capital repayment (scheme A). We first model the financing behaviors of the retailer and determine the circumstances in which the retailer favors a specific financing scheme. Then, we propose a viable cash flow matching strategy in which the retailer retains a portion of its initial capital to address potential repayment shortfalls in each period. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first to integrate the capital constrained retailer’s cash flow management into the platform financing scheme. The results show that: In the absence of cash flow considerations, the retailer prefers scheme L since selecting scheme P or A may lead to bankruptcy. In contrast, if the cash flow matching is efficiently realized, the retailer always prefers scheme P to enhance its performance. Numerical examples are used to validate the theoretical results.
On the conformability of regular line graphs
Authors: Faria Luerbio , Nigro Mauro , Sasaki Diana
Published: September 2023

Let G = (V, E) be a graph and the deficiency of G be def(G) = ∑v∈V(G)(Δ(G)−dG(v)), where dG(v) is the degree of a vertex v in G. A vertex coloring φ:V(G)→{1,2,...,Δ(G)+1} is called conformable if the number of color classes (including empty color classes) of parity different from that of |V(G)| is at most def(G). A general characterization for conformable graphs is unknown. Conformability plays a key role in the total chromatic number theory. It is known that if G is Type 1, then G is conformable. In this paper, we prove that if G is k-regular and Class 1, then L(G) is conformable. As an application of this statement we establish that the line graph of complete graph L(Kn) is conformable, which is a positive evidence towards the Vignesh et al.’s conjecture that L(Kn) is Type 1.
Spezifische Rückenschmerzen
Authors: Chenot Jean-François , Kunow Anna , Mathias Leonard , Truthmann Julia
Published: September 2023

Die Unterscheidung zwischen „spezifischen“ und
„nicht-spezifischen“ Rückenschmerzen ist oftmals
schwierig und hat eine ziemlich große Grauzone. Ist eine aufwendige
Diagnostik bei Rückenschmerzen also überhaupt gerechtfertigt?
Und – falls ja: Führt diese dann auch zu einer besseren
Versorgung? Das Autorenteam um Prof. Jean-François Chenot beleuchtet die
Sinnhaftigkeit einer spezifischen Diagnosestellung und liefert so eine fundierte
Grundlage für weitere Diskussionen.
Strategien zur frühzeitigen Erkennung ernsthafter Pathologien
der Wirbelsäule
Authors: Finucane Laura
Published: September 2023

Ernsthafte Pathologien der Wirbelsäule sind zwar selten, sollten aber von
Physiotherapeut*innen so früh wie möglich erkannt
werden. Dies ist jedoch sehr komplex und geht weit über das Abhaken von
standardisierten Checklisten mit Red Flags hinaus. Laura Finucane (UK) stellt
Strategien vor, die darin unterstützen, zusammen mit den
Patient*innen einen guten Weg zu finden, wenn die klinischen Zeichen
nicht eindeutig sind.
An Oroauricular Fistula After Mandibular Osteosarcoma Resection
Authors: Tapan Mehmet , İsler Vedat Can , Akman Ramazan Furkan , Özkan Özlenen , Özkan Ömer
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Bone tumors are rare malignancies and osteosarcoma is the most common malignant bone
tumor. However, only 6% of all osteosarcomas occur in the mandible and
maxilla 1. The location of these tumors also
presents a unique set of challenges during resection and repair when compared to
long bone tumors.
Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of Recombinant Human Growth Hormone in
Children Born Small for Gestational Age
Authors: Wu Wei , Gong Chunxiu , Li Yuchuan , Hu Yuhua , Gong Haihong , Fu Junfen , Huang Ke , Li Pin , Luo Xiaoping
Published: September 2023

There is a lack of long-term data on the benefit of growth hormone (GH) treatment
in Chinese children born small for gestational age (SGA). This study was
conducted to assess the long-term efficacy and safety of GH treatment in
children born SGA. One hundred and twenty prepubertal SGA children who did not
achieve catch-up growth with height remained less than –2 standard
deviations (SD) below gender-specific height were enrolled in this two-year,
randomized, dose-comparative study followed by an extension study of up to 10
years. Daily subcutaneous injections of 0.23 mg/kg/week
[low-dose (LD) group] or 0.46 mg/kg/week [high-dose (HD)
group] somatropin were given for 104 weeks. Dosing in the extension study
was≤0.46 mg/kg/week. The main outcome measures
were change in height SD score (ΔHT-SDS), height velocity, insulin-like
growth factor (IGF)-1, and IGF-1/IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) molar
ratio. ΔHT-SDS at week 104 was 0.91±0.53 and 1.52±0.64
in the LD and HD groups (intergroup p<0.0001), respectively, and
continued in an upward trend throughout the extension study, remaining
above+2 for those who received treatment for a total of 7 years or more.
At week 104, significant improvements were observed in height velocity, IGF-1
SDS, and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 molar ratio. Adult HT-SDS was
–0.81±1.68 for boys and –0.82±1.05 for girls
(p=0.9837). Glucose metabolism and thyroid function were within the
normal reference range throughout treatment. Long-term recombinant human GH
treatment was tolerable and effective at improving height in children born
SGA.
Ultrasonography in Children With Congenital Pyriform Sinus Fistula:
Analysis of 31 Cases
Authors: Liu Lei , Wang Ruijie , Zheng Qiuying , Xie Fusui , Liu Tingting , Lin Zhouqin , Zhou Jingran , Wu Zebin , Zhao Cailei , Xie Haiyang , Lin Zhou
Published: September 2023

Objectives Congenital pyriform sinus fistula (CPSF) is a rare disease that
can be easily misdiagnosed. This study investigates the value of ultrasonography
in the early diagnosis and treatment of CPSF in children.

Methods Clinical features and ultrasonography images of 31 CPSF pediatric
patients confirmed by operation were retrospectively analyzed, different
sonographic features during the infection period and the quiescence period were
summarized and the consistency test of ultrasonic recognition and diagnosis
between observers was conducted.

Results In this study, 25 CPSF children had thick-walled cystic masses
during the infection period, and cystic masses of 8 cases showed gas echo
inside; after the modified valsalva maneuver, gas echo was found in another 5
cases. The detection rate of gas can be enhanced through the modified valsalva
maneuver and infants’ cry so as to provide an important basis for the
diagnosis of pyriform sinus fistula. During the quiescent period of inflammation
of 6 cases, fistula can be completely shown, and the wall structure has not been
completely destroyed, so that the running position of fistula can be clearly
seen. Ultrasonography boasted a good inter-observer consistency in
identification and determination (Kappa:0.799–0.857;
P<0.001).

Conclusion Ultrasonography could clearly reveal the position and direction
of CPSF fistula. Different ultrasonic characteristics in different periods could
provide relevant information for the selection of clinical operation timing and
evaluate the post-operative effects.
5 Years Experience of 102 Palatoplasties with Speech Assessment
Authors: Dar M.A. , Darzi M.A. , Chowdri N.A.
Published: September 2023

In a study carried over a five year period, 102 patients of cleft palate were studied for assessment of surgical results including speech development, 48 patients had group II (post alveolar) clefts and 54 patients belonged to group III (alveolar) clefts. Middle ear problems were seen in 11.65 percent of patients. In group II patients cleft was repaired by V-Y push-back palatoplasty and in group III patients with four flap technique. There was no operative mortality. Post operative complications occurred in 6.86 percent of patients. 81 patients could be evaluated for surgical results out of which 60 patients above the age of four years were assessed for speech development. 70 percent of patients had adequate length and mobility and 10 percent had short immobile palates. 60 percent of patients achieved acceptable and 40 percent unacceptable speech. Speech results were better in group II clefts than in group III clefts.
Our Experience with Median Forehead Rhinoplasty
Authors: Dhir Anup , Singh Karamjit , Singh Gurpartap
Published: September 2023

Our experience in the management of eight cases of defects of the nose treated by median fore head flap based on a supra trochlear vessel is being documented.
Protein engineering of antibody fragments for pharmaceutical production
Authors: Kuwahara Atsushi , Ikebukuro Kazunori , Asano Ryutaro
Published: September 2023

Antibody fragments without the Fc region are attracting attention in the pharmaceutical industry due to their high ability to penetrate solid tissues, cost-effective expression using microbial expression systems, and distinctive modes of action compared to those of full-size antibodies. Based on these characteristics, several antibody fragment agents have been approved. However, developing platform engineering methodologies to accelerate their development is important. In this review, we summarize and discuss protein engineering strategies for preparing therapeutic antibody fragments composed of antibody variable domains. Three (introduction of high-solubility tag systems, complementarity-determining region grafting, and domain arrangements) and two (introduction of purification tag systems and mutagenesis studies for protein L- or protein A-binding) protein engineering strategies have been reported for the cultivation and purification processes, respectively. Fusion tags might negatively impact molecular folding, function, immunogenicity, and final yield. If the production behavior of antibody fragments is not improved through complementarity-determining region grafting, domain arrangements, or human sequence-based mutagenesis, using additional fusion tag systems should be considered, with careful attention to the points described above. This summarized knowledge regarding protein engineering strategies for effectively producing antibody fragments will further accelerate therapeutic antibody fragment development.
Quantitative simulation of electron beam’s focal spot in thermionic emission
Authors: Teymouri Hadi , Fathi Mohammad Bagher
Published: September 2023

The focal spot size of an electron beam in x-ray photography lamps, which is formed on the anode, has an important effect on the contrast of x-ray images. Usually, the grid is used in x-ray production lamps only to stop or regulate the current of the electron beam, but its effect on the dimensions and size of the focal spot has not been investigated. In this article, we have calculated the electron beam current in a thermionic mode at three temperatures, 2300, 2500, and 2800 K, for a voltage difference of 50 and 100 kV. Our results show that in a thermionic regime without grid (T mode), a larger focal spot is obtained, but in a thermionic regime with grid (TG mode), the focal spot size is smaller. The result that the focal spot of the TG mode is smaller than the focal spot of the T mode was obtained independently of temperature and potential difference. The results of thermionic tracking emission models (T and TG) are compared for different temperatures in the form of three graphs, and we will show that these two regimes have differences in the dimensions of the focal spot formed in each case and that the TG mode gives better results.
Salinity, alkalinity and their combined stress effects on germination and seedling growth attributes in oats (Avena sativa)
Authors: Ahmed Shahid , Patel Richa , Singhal Rajesh Kumar , Kumar Neeraj , Rana Maneet , I Indu , Chand Subhash , Chandra Amaresh
Published: September 2023

Context Under natural field conditions, plants confront the co-occurrence of stresses. A comprehensive insight into combined-stress tolerance is requisite to developing stress resilience in cultivars of oats (Avena sativa L.) for saline–alkaline soil. Aims This study was undertaken to characterise diverse oat genotypes for seedling growth attributes under two saline and alkaline concentrations and under combined saline–alkaline conditions. Methods We screened 105 accessions of the genus Avena with the following treatments: control, reverse osmosis water; moderate salinity (50 mM); high salinity (100 mM); moderate alkalinity (15 mM); high alkalinity (30 mM); combined moderate salinity–alkalinity (50 mM + 15 mM); and combined high salinity–alkalinity (100 mM + 30 mM). For saline treatments, NaCl and Na2SO4 salts were used in equimolar concentrations, and for alkaline treatments, NaHCO3 and Na2CO3. Key results Analysis of variance showed significant (P ≤ 0.001) variation among treatments and genotypes. Principal component analysis revealed 83.3% of the total genetic variation accounted for in the first two principal components. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive correlation between final germination percentage and seedling vigour index. Stress tolerance index identified tolerant and sensitive oat genotypes under high saline and alkaline stress, and multi-trait stability analysis confirmed the stability of performance of some genotypes under the imposed treatments. Conclusions According to the stress tolerance index and multi-trait stability analysis, genotypes IG-20-477, OS-377, IG-20-798 and IG-20-575 were found suitable for high saline–alkaline stress. Implications The identified tolerant oat genotypes can be used as donors for the development of stress-resilient oat cultivars, and for generating mapping populations in oat.
The diachronic and cross-linguistic use of trade metaphors in U.S.-China governmental discourse
Authors: Tan Xiaojuan , Cienki Alan , Kaal Bertie
Published: September 2023

This article compares diachronic and cross-linguistic uses of source domains for framing the target domain of
trade in governmental discourses under the presidencies of Bill Clinton, Jiang Zemin, Donald Trump, and Xi Jinping.
Taking a socio-cognitive approach, we examine trade metaphor use across time periods (1993–1997 vs. 2017–2021) and languages
(American English vs. Mandarin Chinese) in nationally dominant discourses. At the micro-level of trade corpora, both the
quantitative and qualitative analyses show that the higher-level source domains (e.g., building) and their
(re)constructed lower-level source domains (e.g., cornerstone vs. pillar) are semantic fields whose use varies
with discourse contexts. The usages of the distinct lower-level source domains highlight divergent cognitive forms of trade
ideologies, which are embedded in dynamic political structures; they help reveal the implicit trade relations and ideological
motivations at the macro-level of trade discourse contexts. The macro-level analyses reveal that nationally dominant discourses
are constructed around domestic and global interests, and that power relations are (re)constructed diachronically and challenged
transnationally through dominant discursive practices.
Advancement of thermoelectric performances through the dispersion of expanded graphene on p-type BiSbTe alloys
Authors: Go Eun-Ha , Vasudevan Rathinam , Madavali Babu , Dharmaiah Peyala , Shin Min-Woo , Song Sung Ho , Hong Soon-Jik
Published: September 2023

We demonstrated the systematic investigation of the graphene addition on the microstructural behaviour and concurrent thermoelectric properties of water-atomized p-type BiSbTe (BST)- based alloy using mechanical ball milling, and followed through the spark plasma sintering to fabricate a bulk compact specimen. X-ray diffraction results confirm the single phase of BST. The fracture surface of both specimen exhibits the homogenous distribution of grains with irregular shapes in a random alignment. The graphene in the BST provides an extra carrier transport leading to an increment in the carrier concentration ( n) resulting in higher electrical conductivity ( σ) for the BST + Graphene composite. The interface between two-dimensional (2D) graphene and bulk BST provides a larger degree of phonon scattering leading to a maximum reduced thermal conductivity ( к) of 0.8 W m−1K−1 compared to pristine- BST (0.9 W m−1K−1) results in a maximum figure of merit ( ZT) 1.1 at 400 K.
Foreign debt versus organised labour: reflections on the UGTT’s stance on IMF loans in post-uprising Tunisia
Authors: Djerbi Dhouha
Published: September 2023

In the wake of the Tunisian uprising in 2010–2011, the IMF vowed to support democratisation efforts, promising a novel approach attuned to the needs of the nation’s most marginalised people. However, IMF loan agreements garnered controversy for their conditionalities, raising doubts about the Fund’s ‘new’ strategy and its austerity-focused plans for economic restructuring. At the centre of the debt-critical movement, the country’s leading trade union organisation – the UGTT – positioned itself as a fierce opponent to the IMF. Against the backdrop of current talks for a new bailout, this briefing revisits the UGTT’s stance on two major loan agreements that Tunisia entered into after 2010.
Neural signals-based respiratory motion tracking: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Zhang Xiangbin , Liu Wenjie , Xu Feng , He Weizhong , Song Yingpeng , Li Guangjun , Zhang Yingjie , Dai Guyu , Xiao Qing , Meng Qianqian , Zeng Xianhu , Bai Sen , Zhong Renming
Published: September 2023

Objective. Respiratory motion tracking techniques can provide optimal treatment accuracy for thoracoabdominal radiotherapy and robotic surgery. However, conventional imaging-based respiratory motion tracking techniques are time-lagged owing to the system latency of medical linear accelerators and surgical robots. This study aims to investigate the precursor time of respiratory-related neural signals and analyze the potential of neural signals-based respiratory motion tracking. Approach. The neural signals and respiratory motion from eighteen healthy volunteers were acquired simultaneously using a 256-channel scalp electroencephalography (EEG) system. The neural signals were preprocessed using the MNE python package to extract respiratory-related EEG neural signals. Cross-correlation analysis was performed to assess the precursor time and cross-correlation coefficient between respiratory-related EEG neural signals and respiratory motion. Main results. Respiratory-related neural signals that precede the emergence of respiratory motion are detectable via non-invasive EEG. On average, the precursor time of respiratory-related EEG neural signals was 0.68 s. The representative cross-correlation coefficients between EEG neural signals and respiratory motion of the eighteen healthy subjects varied from 0.22 to 0.87. Significance. Our findings suggest that neural signals have the potential to compensate for the system latency of medical linear accelerators and surgical robots. This indicates that neural signals-based respiratory motion tracking is a potential promising solution to respiratory motion and could be useful in thoracoabdominal radiotherapy and robotic surgery.
Electrodes as the protagonists in composite barrier Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Ipsita Sushree , Sahu Sunil Ku , Mahapatra P K
Published: September 2023

The role of electrodes in composite barrier Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions (FTJs) is investigated for the systems (//Pt/STO/BTO/SRO, //Pt/STO/BTO/Pt, //SRO/STO/BTO/SRO and //SRO/STO/BTO/Pt). The tunneling current is controlled by the potential drop in the accumulation and depletion region in the electrodes which depends on the ratio of their screening length to permittivity (δ/

ϵ

). The Tunneling electro resistance ratio (TER) becomes significant for bias potential

V
>

P

δ

1

ϵ

1

+

t

d

ϵ

d

+

δ

2

ϵ

2

wherein the screening charge density

σ

s

remains negative causing the pull-down of the barrier towards the Fermi level and an increase in the tunneling current. Among the studied systems //Pt/20Å STO/24Ǻ BTO/SRO system with an active device length of 7.6 nm is found to have a current density of 3.38 × 104 A cm−2 and 0.22 A cm−2 in the ON and OFF state and an absolute TER of around 1.52 × 105% at the bias of 0.77 V conform to the necessary conditions of efficient application in memory devices.
Electroless Ni-P-MoS2 composite coating of Al-alloys: effect of surface textures and bath composition
Authors: Mohanty Shalini , Singh Garima , Dwivedi Suryank , Dixit Amit Rai , Singh Rabesh Kumar
Published: September 2023

The present work assesses the effect of textures and bath composition on Ni-P-MoS2 electroless composite coating. Aluminium alloys are subjected to textures (through electrical discharge machine) for using as substrate material in the present context of study. A comparison study is conducted to evaluate the effect of coatings on textured and non-textured surfaces prepared in two different baths (oxalic acid and hydrazine). Different surface characterization has been carried out including micro-hardness, surface roughness, topography, morphology, tribology through micro-scratch test, and composition analysis (using Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy) in the study. Results indicate that the textured coated surfaces impart better wear-resistant properties than those of coatings produced in non-textured ones. Moreover, the coating prepared using oxalic acid bath imparts better micro-hardness and tribological properties than those of hydrazine bath. The elemental presence of Mo, S, Ni and P was affirmed through EDS mapping, indicates transference of MoS2 particles on to the coated surfaces. The micro-hardness of different coated specimen prepared using oxalic acid bath range from 53.55 HV0.2 to 71.31 HV0.2 for non-textured samples and 70.47 HV0.2 to 113.52 HV0.2 for textured ones. It varied from 53.68 HV0.2 to 68.85 HV0.2 for non-textured surfaces and 63.03 HV0.2 to 98.27 HV0.2 for textured surfaces in hydrazine bath. The addition of MoS2 powder in the electroless bath account for the deposition of a tribo-adaptive layer on Al-alloys.
Correction of Lorentz breaking theory to quantum tunneling radiation and entropy of black hole in gravity’s rainbow
Authors: Tan Xia , Zhang Jie , Li Ran
Published: September 2023

Considering the Lorentz breaking theory, the correct modified forms of the dynamic equations of bosons and fermions in curved space-time are studied. For the new form of fermions dynamic equation through spin 1/2 Dirac particles in the black hole space-time in gravity’s rainbow, by introducing aether-like vector field and correctly constructing gamma matrix, new meaningful expressions of Hawking temperature, tunneling rate and Bekenstein-Hawking entropy of this black hole are obtained. In addition, the distribution characteristics of the energy levels of Dirac particles are also studied, and meaningful results are obtained. The research results show that the Lorentz breaking terms will cause a certain degree of correction to the tunneling radiation of fermions in the curved space-time of the black hole.
Another approach to linear Diophantine fuzzy rough sets on two universes and its application towards decision-making problems
Authors: Ayub Saba , Shabir Muhammad , Gul Rizwan
Published: September 2023

Theories of the rough set (RS) and the fuzzy set (FS) are constructed to accommodate the uncertainty in the data analysis. Linear Diophantine FS (LD-FS) as a novel approach to decision-making (DM), broadening the predominating theories of intuitionistic FS (IFS), Pythagorean FS (PFS), q-rung orthopair FS (q-ROFS) deals with uncertain and vague information by considering the control or reference parameters. Exploring RSs in the framework of LD-FS is a propitious direction in RS theory, where LD-FSs are approximated by Linear Diophantine fuzzy relation (LD-FR). The primary aim of this article is to develop a new linear Diophantine fuzzy RS (LDF-RS) model based on an LD-FR over dual universes. The notions of lower and upper approximations of an LD-FS are introduced by using an LD-FR, and several fundamental structural properties are explored. Moreover, a connection between LDF-RSs and linear Diophantine fuzzy topology (LDF-topology) is established. In addition, some similarity relations among LD-FSs based on their lower and upper approximations are studied. Finally, a DM approach is crafted for the ranking of alternatives using the notions of LDF-RS. Moreover, a numerical example is designed and compared with some existing techniques.
Misalignment mechanism for a mass-varying vector boson
Authors: Kaneta Kunio , Lee Hye-Sung , Lee Jiheon , Yi Jaeok
Published: September 2023

A coherent field over the entire universe is an attractive picture in studying the dark sector of the universe. The misalignment mechanism, which relies on inflation to achieve homogeneousness of the field, is a popular mechanism for producing such a coherent dark matter. Nevertheless, unlike a scalar field case, a vector boson field suffers because its energy density is exponentially suppressed by the scale factor during the cosmic expansion. We show that if the vector field gets a mass from a scalar field, whose value increases by orders of magnitude, the suppression can be compensated, and the misalignment can produce the coherent vector boson that has a sizable amount of energy density in the present universe. Quintessence can be such a scalar field.
High uniformity splitter with great inhibition of ±1st orders
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Bo , Liu Liqun
Published: September 2023

A transmissive double-groove grating under vertical incidence is proposed in this paper. The grating has a total of five diffraction orders, and the effect of a three-channel beam splitter is achieved by inhibiting the diffraction efficiency of ±1st orders. This is a polarization-independent micro-nano structure that achieves triple beam splitting under both TE and TM polarization. The diffraction efficiency of the 0th order and ±2nd orders for TE polarization orders can reach 32.55% and 32.72%, respectively. And the diffraction efficiency of 0th order and ±2nd orders for TM polarization can reach 32.28% and 32.59%, respectively. Both TE and TM polarization can achieve 99% uniformity. The grating performs well in terms of manufacturing tolerances and immunity to interference.
Deepening the role of excitation/inhibition balance in human iPSCs-derived neuronal networks coupled to MEAs during long-term development
Authors: Parodi Giulia , Brofiga Martina , Pastore Vito Paolo , Chiappalone Michela , Martinoia Sergio
Published: September 2023

Objective. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether and how the balance between excitation and inhibition (‘E/I balance’) influences the spontaneous development of human-derived neuronal networks in vitro. To achieve that goal, we performed a long-term (98 d) characterization of both homogeneous (only excitatory or inhibitory neurons) and heterogeneous (mixed neuronal types) cultures with controlled E/I ratios (i.e. E:I 0:100, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, 100:0) by recording their electrophysiological activity using micro-electrode arrays. Approach. Excitatory and inhibitory neurons were derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). We realized five different configurations by systematically varying the glutamatergic and GABAergic percentages. Main results. We successfully built both homogeneous and heterogeneous neuronal cultures from hiPSCs finely controlling the E/I ratios; we were able to maintain them for up to 3 months. Homogeneity differentially impacted purely inhibitory (no bursts) and purely excitatory (few bursts) networks, deviating from the typical traits of heterogeneous cultures (burst dominated). Increased inhibition in heterogeneous cultures strongly affected the duration and organization of bursting and network bursting activity. Spike-based functional connectivity and image-based deep learning analysis further confirmed all the above. Significance. Healthy neuronal activity is controlled by a well-defined E/I balance whose alteration could lead to the onset of neurodevelopmental disorders like schizophrenia or epilepsy. Most of the commonly used in vitro models are animal-derived or too simplified and thus far from the in vivo human condition. In this work, by performing a long-term study of hiPSCs-derived neuronal networks obtained from healthy human subjects, we demonstrated the feasibility of a robust in vitro model which can be further exploited for investigating pathological conditions where the E/I balance is impaired.
Parametric instabilities and hot electron generation in the interactions of broadband lasers with inhomogeneous plasmas
Authors: Liu Z. , Ma H.H. , Wang W. , Li X.F. , Wang P.P. , Wang C. , Yew S.H. , Weng S.M. , Sheng Z.M. , Zhang J.
Published: September 2023

The development of parametric instabilities in the interaction of a large-scale inhomogeneous plasma with either a monochromatic or a broadband laser pulse is investigated theoretically and numerically. For a monochromatic laser at an intensity of

1.5
×

10

15

 W cm−2, the development of Stimulated Brillouin Scattering (SBS) in the relatively low density region will obviously dissipate pump laser and hence inhibit the development of Two-Plasmon Decay (TPD) and absolute Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) near the quarter-critical density. By using a laser with a moderate fractional bandwidth (∼1.0%) at the same averged intensity, it is found that the laser reflectivity will be greatly reduced since the SBS can be suppressed effectively due to its low linear growth rate. On the contrary, the TPD and absolute SRS are obviously enhanced since the in situ laser intensity near the quarter-critical density becomes stronger in this case. As a result, the hot electron generation due to the TPD and absolute SRS is dramatically enhanced as well. This indicates that the competition between various parametric instabilities in a large-scale inhomogeneous plasma makes it more challenging to simultaneously suppress all kinds of parametric instabilities by using broadband lasers. Particular attention should be paid to the TPD, which not only has a relatively large linear growth rate but also is efficient in generating harmful hot electrons. Increasing the laser bandwidth further, the hot electron generation will be finally reduced as long as the TPD and SRS are also suppressed with a sufficient bandwidth (

⩾

3%) at the intensity of

1.5
×

10

15

 W cm−2 that may be encountered in some novel ignition schemes such as shock ignition. However, it is worth noting that the laser bandwidth required to mitigate parametric instabilities and hot electron production strongly depends on laser intensity. A moderate laser bandwidth (∼1%) may be sufficient to mitigate both the laser reflectivity and hot electron production for typical ICF target designs operated with laser intensities lower than 1015 W cm−2.
Impacts of abiotic and biotic factors on tundra productivity near Utqiaġvik, Alaska
Authors: Zhang Qingyuan , Zhang Xuesong , Lara Mark J , Li Zhengpeng , Xiao Jingfeng , Zhao Kaiguang , Hu Tongxi
Published: September 2023

Earlier snowmelt, warmer temperatures and herbivory are among the factors that influence high-latitude tundra productivity near the town of Utqiaġvik in northern Alaska. However, our understanding of the potential interactions between these factors is limited. MODIS observations provide cover fractions of vegetation, snow, standing water, and soil, and fractional absorption of photosynthetically active radiation by canopy chlorophyll (fAPARchl) per pixel. Here, we evaluated a recent time-period (2001–2014) that the tundra experienced large interannual variability in vegetation productivity metrics (i.e. fAPARchl and APARchl), which was explainable by both abiotic and biotic factors. We found earlier snowmelt to increase soil and vegetation cover, and productivity in June, while warmer temperatures significantly increased monthly productivity. However, abiotic factors failed to explain stark decreases in productivity during August of 2008, which coincided with a severe lemming outbreak. MODIS observations found this tundra ecosystem to completely recover two years later, resulting in elevated productivity. This study highlights the potential roles of both climate and herbivory in modulating the interannual variability of remotely retrieved plant productivity metrics in Arctic coastal tundra ecosystems.
Prediction of systemic free and total valproic acid by off-line analysis of exhaled breath in epileptic children and adolescents
Authors: Awchi Mo , Singh Kapil Dev , Dill Patricia E , Frey Urs , Datta Alexandre N , Sinues Pablo
Published: September 2023

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of medications with a narrow therapeutic window is a common clinical practice to minimize toxic effects and maximize clinical outcomes. Routine analyses rely on the quantification of systemic blood concentrations of drugs. Alternative matrices such as exhaled breath are appealing because of their inherent non-invasive nature. This is especially the case for pediatric patients. We have recently showcased the possibility of predicting systemic concentrations of valproic acid (VPA), an anti-seizure medication by real-time breath analysis in two real clinical settings. This approach, however, comes with the limitation of the patients having to physically exhale into the mass spectrometer. This restricts the possibility of sampling from patients not capable or available to exhale into the mass spectrometer located on the hospital premises. In this work, we developed an alternative method to overcome this limitation by collecting the breath samples in customized bags and subsequently analyzing them by secondary electrospray ionization coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (SESI-HRMS). A total of n = 40 patients (mean ± SD, 11.5 ± 3.5 y.o.) diagnosed with epilepsy and taking VPA were included in this study. The patients underwent three measurements: (i) serum concentrations of total and free VPA, (ii) real-time breath analysis and (iii) off-line analysis of exhaled breath collected in bags. The agreement between the real-time and the off-line breath analysis methods was evaluated using Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). CCC was computed for ten mass spectral predictors of VPA concentrations. Lin’s CCC was >0.6 for all VPA-associated features, except for two low-signal intensity isotopic peaks. Finally, free and total serum VPA concentrations were predicted by cross validating the off-line data set. Support vector machine algorithms provided the most accurate predictions with a root mean square error of cross validation of 29.0 ± 7.4 mg l−1 and 3.9 ± 1.4 mg l−1 for total and free VPA (mean ± SD), respectively. As a secondary analysis, we explored whether exhaled metabolites previously associated with side-effects and response to medication could be rendered by the off-line analysis method. We found that five features associated with side effects showed a CCC > 0.6, whereas none of the drug response-associated peaks reached this cut-off. We conclude that the clinically relevant free fraction of VPA can be predicted by this combination of off-line breath collection with rapid SESI-HRMS analysis. This opens new possibilities for breath based TDM in clinical settings.
Numerical investigation on thermoelastic bending of sandwich plates with porous FGM layer
Authors: Van Do Vuong Nguyen , Lee Chin-Hyung
Published: September 2023

Porous Sandwich plates are finding increased use in many engineering applications including construction and shipbuilding industries. In recent decades, the laminated plates have much attractive because of the introduction of advanced composite materials such as functionally graded materials (FGMs). This material in which its characteristics are smoothly transient through certain dimensions can overcome many problems encountered in conventional laminated stacking composites, e.g., the inter-laminar stress discontinuity occurred by the mismatches in the characteristics of two distinct laminated layers. This study explores thermal elasto bending of FGM sandwich plates by using IGA (isogeometric analysis) method which be able to easily perform both the smoothness of higher-order distribution, the precise and cost-efficient in modelling of the geometries. A trigonometric higher shear deformable plate theory, which can take the thickness effects into account, is established with the zig-zag formulation to describe the continuity requirement based on the non-uniform rational B-spline (NURBS)-based IGA. Benchmark problems on the thermoelastic bending responses of FGM sandwich plates have been tested, and the results are validated to the reference problems reported in the open literature to evidence the analysis capability of the proposed IGA method. Additional parameter study highlight the impacts of the composition patterns, ingredient variation, plate geometric coefficient and thermal load type on the thermoelastic flexural behaviors.
Ecotoxicity of sediments in Ho Chi Minh city’s canals
Authors: Bui Thanh-Khiet L. , Carmen Casado-Martinez M. , Tatiane Combi , Lara-Martin Pablo A. , Werner Inge , Nguyen Kieu Lan Phuong
Published: September 2023

For an ecotoxicological screening of recently deposited sediments, samples were collected from Ho Chi Minh City’s canals in August 2015. The sediments were characterized by physico-chemical analysis of metals, PAHs, PCBs, and other organic micropollutants, and standard sediment toxicity testing. The results showed that the sediments from the canals from both the urban and suburban areas contained a mixture of contaminants with concentrations of several metals, PAHs, PCBs and OCs being above thresholds for effects to benthic organisms. The results of the chemical analyses were corroborated by toxicity detected in standard laboratory tests with crustaceans (ostracods) and insect (midge) larvae. Conspicuous concentrations at the μg/g level were found for the fragrances galaxolide and OTNE, and nonylphenol, triclosan and the UV filters octocrylene, 2-EHDP and EHMC were measured at all sampling sites at concentrations of several tens and even hundreds ng/g. Highest concentrations were measured for the pyrethroid insecticide permethrin in sediments from the urban area and for the pyrethroid insecticide bifenthrin in sediments from suburban areas (3692.9 ng/g dw and 477.6 ng/g dw, respectively). Insecticides were identified as the most probable contributors to the observed toxicity.
Sustainability evaluation of freshwater withdrawal on the Vu Gia Thu Bon river basin in Vietnam
Authors: Duong Mai Thi Thuy , Duong Võ Ngoc , Nga Tran Thi Viet
Published: September 2023

The study uses the water stress index (WSI) as a tool to assess water scarcity. Water for the ecosystem is also referred to as the amount of water required by the basin. The MIKE SHE hydrological model is used to simulate the flow in the period 1980–2020 and forecast 2030. The study also found the importance of distinguishing groundwater from surface water when calculating. 1) There is a difference in WSI between the sub-basins, according to the results. Water scarcity is more severe in the downstream regions than it is in the middle and upstream regions, particularly in the region that supplies water to Da Nang city. 2) The bulk of WSI values between March and May 2020 were higher than 0.6, with a severe scarcity WSI peak of more than 3.4. According to the low emission scenario B1, the summer rainfall changes in the Quang Nam - Da Nang region will fall by roughly 1.9% -2.1% in 2030, increasing the likelihood of more severe and extreme droughts. The WSI will also rise by twice as much as it did in 2020. Water shortages will start sooner and stay longer in 2030, starting in February and continuing through September.
Sources of microplastic pollution in the Saigon-Dong Nai rivers, potential risks affecting human health and recommendations for mitigation solutions
Authors: Phu Huynh , Han Huynh Thi Ngoc , Thao Nguyen Ly Ngoc
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the study was to investigate the existence of tiny plastic particles present in the aquatic environment of the Saigon-Dong Nai rivers. Additionally, the study provided an overview of the origins and risks of microplastics for human health. A sampling method was built based on the ocean microplastic analysis method of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to match actual conditions. Water samples were extracted to remove organic matter, minerals, and metals before analyzing them using stereomicroscopy and Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy. Research results have shown the existence of microplastics with sizes from 0.1-5 millimeters in the Saigon-Dong Nai rivers. Microplastics in the form of fragments, films, and fibers account for 228,120-715,124 items.m−3 of water and pelleted microplastics account for 23-300 items.m−3 of water. The results about microplastics in the samples showed that Polyethylene, Polypropylene, and Polyvinylchloride accounted for 51.2%, 27.1%, and 13.4%, respectively; and the rest are other plastics (8.3%). The average length and radius of filamentous microplastics are 524.68 micrometers and 100.4 micrometers, respectively. The average length of microplastics in the form of fragments and films is 229.49 micrometers with an average width of 101.3-120.6 micrometers. The average radius of microplastics in the form of pellets is 113.81 micrometers. They have many different colors and shapes and appear in many places where garbage accumulates when the tide recedes, especially in densely populated areas such as Thu Dau Mot and Ho Chi Minh City.
Screening of herbal plants for inhibitory activity and extracting skin-whitening active ingredients from papaya fruit
Authors: Le Xuan-Tien , Nguyen Ba-Thuc , Dang Yen-Phuong , Tran-Nguyen Khanh-Uyen , Le-Dang Thao-Dan , Pham Chau-Duyen , Pham-Vu Minh-Chau
Published: September 2023

The main theme of this research was to screen for tyrosinase inhibition from extracts of seven medicinal plants with the aim of applying their skin-whitening compounds to the cosmetic industry. Specifically, the botanical parts include Morus alba L. fruit, Pachyrhizus erosus L. fruit, Glycyrrhiza uralensis F. root, Lonicera japonica T. flower, Chrysanthemum indicum L. flower, Momordica charantia L. leaf and Carica papaya L. fruit, which extracted in safe solvents as ethanol and water. The study results indicated that the tyrosinase inhibitory was higher in the ethanol-extracted products. Meanwhile, Carica papaya had high inhibitory (54.5 ± 2.97%, second only to Glycyrrhiza uralensis) and was widely grown in Viet Nam. Hence, this fruit pulp was chosen to study the suitable extracting conditions. The optimal conditions were found, with the absolute ethanol (EtOH) solvent, solid/liquid ratio of 1:8 (g/mL), 2 times extraction per patch, each time at 50 °C for 30 minutes. The expected value of extraction yield was 22.1%, tyrosinase inhibition IC50 = 768.9 μg/mL, antioxidation (DPPH method) IC50 = 1974.5 µg/mL. .
Wave Attenuation in Coastal Mangroves: the case of Mekong Delta Vietnam
Authors: Thao Nguyen Danh , Kiet Nguyen , Anh Le Tuan , Huynh Phan Thi Diem , Hiep Luu Dinh , Trang Doan Dinh Tuyet
Published: September 2023

Mangrove generally plays an important role in dissipating the energy of high waves and storm surges, thereby it protects the coast from erosion. In the context of climate change, the impact from water related phenomena seems to be increased, therefore mangrove is considered as the most effective and environment friendly solution. This research focuses on assessing the effectiveness of wave energy reducing of mangrove at the Bac Lieu coast in Southern Vietnam by implementing the XBeach 2D numerical model combined with field survey. To investigate the mangrove evolution during time, the satellite images are used to analyze for mapping the mangrove zone. The final results indicate that there are factors which significantly affect the efficiency of wave reducing including the mangrove density, mangrove band width, incoming wave height and the local water depth. Especially, specific areas which are vulnerable due to the lack of mangrove forest are well identified in the 2D model comparing to XBeach 1D.
Capacitating Strategies to Promote Climate Resilient Coconut-based Farming Systems (CR-CBFS) in Vulnerable Coconut Communities of the Philippines
Authors: Aguilar Edna A. , Montesur Jaime , Lacsina Juliene Camile
Published: September 2023

Climate extremes that continuously bring unpredictable weather patterns particularly strong typhoons and rainfall events devastated many coconut-producing areas in the Philippines. These weather patterns affected the livelihood of farmers and the whole supply chain of the coconut industry. Adoption of a clustering system of farmers is a key approach to sustaining the growing needs of the coconut industry. This will ensure the continuous engagement of farmers in coconut farming where good agricultural practices are performed in developing products that meet the domestic and international market standards. However, clustering of climate-resilient integrated farming systems through participation in multi-purpose cooperatives requires scientific guidance, market-driven production and market linkages.

This paper integrates learnings from past coconut and coconut-based farming system (CBFS) projects. Further, it highlights the learning-by-doing approach where core trainers are developed to train farmer groups in designing location-specific climate-resilient CBFS using a hybrid curriculum of CR – Farmers Field School (CR – FFS) and Farmer Business School. This improvement in the integrated curriculum can change individual and community perspectives, improve farm practices, reduce the impacts of climate-related hazards and risks, provide sustainable livelihoods and enhance farmers’ participation in agri-enterprises. The CR-CBFS season-long training exercises will integrate climate risks and forecasts in farmers’ decision-making, provide technical and business lenses for improved farm productivity and profitability through the integration of complementary enterprises such as intercropping, livestock, value-adding and processing that consider environmental, socio-cultural and economic factors.