bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Surgical Treatment of Multilevel Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Open-Door Laminoplasty and Fixation via Unilateral Approach. A Feasibility Study
Authors: Schmeiser Gregor , Bergmann Janina Isabel , Papavero Luca , Kothe Ralph 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Objective We compared open-door laminoplasty via a unilateral approach and additional unilateral lateral mass screw fixation (uLP) with laminectomy and bilateral lateral mass screw fixation (LC) in the surgical treatment of multilevel degenerative cervical myelopathy (mDCM).
Methods A retrospective cohort analysis of 46 prospectively enrolled patients (23 uLP and 23 LC). The minimum follow-up was 1 year. Neck and arm pains were evaluated with visual analog scales and disability with the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Myelopathy was rated with the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score. Cervical sagittal parameters were measured on plain and functional X-ray films with a specific software. The statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Fusion was defined as <2 degrees of intersegmental motion on flexion/extension radiographs.
Results The two groups were similar in age and comorbidities. The mean operation time and the mean hospital stay were shorter in the uLP group (p = 0.015). The intraoperative blood loss did not exceed 200 mL in both groups. At follow-up, the groups showed comparable clinical outcome data. The sagittal profile did not deteriorate in either group. Fusion rates were 67% in the uLP group and 92% in the LC group. No infections occurred in either group. In the LC group, one patient developed a transient C5 palsy. Revision surgery was required for a malpositioned screw (LC) and for one implant failure (uLP).
Conclusion Laminoplasty and unilateral fixation via a unilateral approach achieved comparable clinical and radiologic results with laminectomy and bilateral fixation, despite a lower fusion rate. However, the surgical traumatization was less.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Technique for the Management of Giant Dumbbell Spinal Schwannoma
Authors: Poblete Jose , Martinez Anda Jaime Jesus , Mendoza Angel Asdrubal Rebollar , Torales Jorge , Somma Alberto Di , Torne Ramon , Fuster Salvador , Enseñat Joaquim 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background Completely extradural spinal schwannomas have a unique morphology (dumbbell tumors) with an intra- and extraspinal component. When they compromise two contiguous vertebral bodies or have an extraspinal extension >2.5 cm, they are classified as giant spinal schwannomas. The aim of this study is to present our experience in the surgical management of completely extradural giant spinal schwannomas with a minimally invasive approach.
Methods This study is a case series of patients treated at the Neurosurgery Department of the University Clinical and Provincial Hospital of Barcelona, Spain, between January 2016 and December 2019.
Results Fifteen patients met the inclusion criteria, with thoracic and lumbar spines being the most frequent locations. All patients underwent surgical treatment, with a mini-open interlaminar and far-lateral technique. Total gross resection was accomplished in all patients and spine instrumentation was not necessary.
Conclusions Microsurgery is the treatment of choice for spinal schwannomas, and gross total resection with low morbidity must be the surgical goal. Mini-open interlaminar and far-lateral access is a valid surgical option, with low morbidity in experienced hands, and there is no need for spinal instrumentation.
Revisiting Provider Role in Patient Use of Online Medical Records
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Surma , Basak Ramsankar , Khairat Saif , Carney Timothy J. 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Objectives Provider encouragement for patient use of online medical record (OMR) systems is poorly understood. The study examines temporal trends and predictors of provider encouragement and the effects of encouragement on OMR use.
Methods Health Information National Trends Survey administered in 2017 and 2020 were used. Subjects were 18 to 75 years old with access to the Internet or smart devices. From 2017 and 2020, 2,558 and 3,058 subjects were included, respectively.
Results In 2020, 52.8% reported receiving provider encouragement within the last year for OMR use compared with 41.3% in 2017 (p < 0.001). For respondents with chronic diseases (such as diabetes, hypertension, heart, or lung diseases [CVMD]), encouragement increased from 45.5 to 57.2% (p < 0.001). Sociodemographic determinants and clinical attributes (e.g., provider office visits, cancer history, or CVMDs) significantly (p < 0.05) predicted encouragement. Among CVMD subjects, gender and visit frequency were significant predictors. OMR use within a year grew recently (73.3% in 2020 vs. 60.6% in 2017, p = 0.002) among CVMD subjects reporting encouragement. Provider encouragement was associated (p < 0.05) with secure communication and viewing results using OMRs controlling for other predictors in the overall cohort and among CVMD subjects.
Conclusion Many respondents reported not receiving provider encouragement for OMR use. These subjects represent millions of U.S. adults, including those participating during the pandemic, with CVMDs or cancer history. Encouragement rates grew over time and was associated with demographic or disease attributes and with OMR use. Future research should assess the optimality of encouragement. Resources enabling provider encouragement should continue and help prevent disparity in health technology use.
The Role of Carbon Allotrope-Based Charge Transport Layers in Enhancing the Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Benetti Daniele , Rosei Federico 
Published: December 2021

Third generation solar cells, such as organic photovoltaics, dye-sensitized solar cells, and most recently perovskite solar cells (PSCs), have emerged as low-cost solutions compared with commercial silicon-based technologies.
The main drawbacks toward the commercialization of PSCs are the long-term stability of the devices, and the use of expensive materials, such as noble metals, and polymers that limit scale-up. Some commonly used charge transport materials have a detrimental effect on the perovskite layer, which increase the degradation of the perovskite under UV radiation, thermal stress, or in the presence of moisture.
To improve performance and reduce cost, the incorporation of new materials and processing techniques are being actively pursued. Carbonaceous materials have been proposed for such purposes, owing to their exceptional electrical, optical, thermal, and mechanical properties.
The synergy between the properties of metal halide perovskite semiconductors and carbon allotropes has recently been revealed and has contributed toward the realization of PSCs with impressive efficiencies and operational stability.
In this chapter, we first briefly introduce the different structures of carbon allotropes, then we describe how these materials can be integrated in different charge transport layers used in PSCs, highlighting their roles in enhancing performance and stability.
The hippocampal formation and action at a distance
Authors: Nadel Lynn 
Published: December 2021

Significance
This article proposes an overarching hypothesis about the function of the hippocampal formation, namely, that it enables organisms to bridge significant spatial and temporal gaps in experience and is thereby deeply involved in aspects of spatial cognition, event segmentation, and memory. This brain system enables organisms to go beyond the here and now, utilizing prior experience to plan current and future behavior.
The Long road to TBLT
Authors: Norris John M. 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Michael H. Long was one of the earliest proponents of task-based language teaching, and his groundbreaking work on
multiple dimensions of the proposal helped establish TBLT as a fertile locus for innovation at the intersection of research and
practice. His work on TBLT over four decades led the way to robust research programs on syllabus design, needs analysis,
methodological principles for teaching, pedagogic procedures including focus on form and negative feedback, task-based assessment,
and program evaluation, among others. This article provides a review of some of Long’s major contributions to TBLT, addressing not
only the theoretical and empirical aspects of his work but also the implementation of his ideas in practice and a few associated
challenges.
Isotropic quantitative differential phase contrast imaging techniques: a review
Authors: Vyas Sunil , Li An-Cin , Lin Yu-Hsiang , Yeh J Andrew , Luo Yuan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Optical phase shifts generated by the spatial variation of refractive index and thickness inside the transparent samples can be determined by intensity measurements through quantitative phase contrast imaging. In this review, we focus on isotropic quantitative differential phase contrast microscopy (qDPC), which is a non-interferometric quantitative phase imaging technique that belongs to the class of deterministic phase retrieval from intensity. The qDPC is based on the principle of the weak object transfer function together with the first-order Born approximation in a partially coherent illumination system and wide-field detection, which offers multiple advantages. We review basic principles, imaging systems, and demonstrate examples of DPC imaging for biomedical applications. In addition to the previous work, we present the latest results for isotropic phase contrast enhancements using a deep learning model. We implemented a supervised learning approach with the U-net model to reduce the number of measurements required for multi-axis measurements associated with the isotropic phase transfer function. We show that a well-designed and trained neural network provides a fast and efficient way to predict quantitative phase maps for live cells, which can help in determining morphological parameters of cells for detailed study. The prospects of deep learning in quantitative phase microscopy, particularly for isotropic quantitative phase estimation, are discussed.
Learning a compass spin model with neural network quantum states
Authors: Zou Eric , Long Erik , Zhao Erhai 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Neural network quantum states provide a novel representation of the many-body states of interacting quantum systems and open up a promising route to solve frustrated quantum spin models that evade other numerical approaches. Yet its capacity to describe complex magnetic orders with large unit cells has not been demonstrated, and its performance in a rugged energy landscape has been questioned. Here we apply restricted Boltzmann machines (RBMs) and stochastic gradient descent to seek the ground states of a compass spin model on the honeycomb lattice, which unifies the Kitaev model, Ising model and the quantum 120° model with a single tuning parameter. We report calculation results on the variational energy, order parameters and correlation functions. The phase diagram obtained is in good agreement with the predictions of tensor network ansatz, demonstrating the capacity of RBMs in learning the ground states of frustrated quantum spin Hamiltonians. The limitations of the calculation are discussed. A few strategies are outlined to address some of the challenges in machine learning frustrated quantum magnets.
Correlations in twisted double-layer graphene with virtual photons in a microcavity
Authors: Arreyes Facundo , Escudero Federico , Ardenghi Juan Sebastián 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
We analyze the entanglement generation of a system composed of two decoupled rotated graphene layers inside a planar microcavity. By considering the electromagnetic field of the cavity in the vacuum state and using time-dependent perturbation theory it is possible to obtain the range of geometric parameters at which the quantum states of electrons in different layers are entangled. By employing the negativity measure, correlations between layers are obtained for time scales smaller than the light-crossing time of the layers. It is shown that the negativity measure is modulated by the rotation angle between layers, allowing manipulation of X states. Finally, an experimental protocol is analyzed in order to detect non-causal effects between layers, by allowing back-voltage switching functions in the two layers with supports that do not overlap in time. By turning off the second-back voltage at a time smaller than the light-crossing time, it is possible to obtain correlations between layers through the independent interaction with virtual photons. The exchange of virtual photons implies that the propagator can be nonzero outside the light cone and this non-causal propagation can create entangled quantum states.
Novel Janus group III chalcogenide monolayers Al2XY2 (X/Y = S, Se, Te): first-principles insight onto the structural, electronic, and transport properties
Authors: Vu Tuan V , Hieu Nguyen N 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Motivated by the recent successful synthesis of 2D quintuple-layer atomic materials, for the first time, we design and investigate the electronic and transport properties of Janus Al2XY2 (X/Y = S, Se, Te; X ≠ Y) monolayers by using the density functional theory. Our calculations demonstrate that most of the models of Al2XY2 (except for Al2STe2 monolayer) are dynamically and mechanically stable. By using the hybrid functional, all models of Al2XY2 are semiconductors with an indirect bandgap. Meanwhile, Al2TeS2 monolayer is found to be metal at the Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof level. Due to the vertical asymmetry structure, an intrinsic built-in electric field exists in the Al2XY2 and leads to a difference in the vacuum levels between the two sides of the monolayers. Carrier mobilities of Al2XY2 monolayers are high directional anisotropic due to the anisotropy of their deformation potential constant. Al2XY2 monolayers exhibit high electron mobility, particularly, the electron mobility of Al2SeS2 exceeds 1 × 104 cm2 V−1 s−1, suggesting that they are suitable for applications in nanometer-sized electronic devices.
The effect of passive lower limb training on heart rate asymmetry
Authors: Shi Ping , Li Anan , Wu Liang , Yu Hongliu 
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Objective. Heart rate asymmetry (HRA) is an approach for quantitatively assessing the uneven distribution of heart rate accelerations and decelerations for sinus rhythm. We aimed to investigate whether automatic regulation led to HRA alternation during passive lower limb training. Approach. Thirty healthy participants were recruited in this study. The protocol included a baseline (Pre-E) and three passive lower limb training trials (E1, E2 and E3) with a randomized order. Several variance-based HRA variables were established. Heart rate variability (HRV) parameters, i.e. mean RR, SDNN, RMSSD, LF (n.u.), HF (n.u.) and VLF (ms2), and HRA variables, i.e. SD1a, SD1d, SD2a, SD2d, SDNNa and SDNNd, were calculated by using 5 min RR time series, as well as the normalized HRA variables, i.e. C1a, C1d, C2a, C2d, Ca and Cd. Main results. Our results showed that the performance of HRA was distinguished. The normalized HRA was observed with significant changes in E1, E2 and E3 compared to Pre -E. Moreover, parts of non-normalized HRA variables correlated with HRV parameters, which indicated that HRA might benefit in assessing cardiovascular modulation in passive lower limb training. Significance. In summary, this study suggested that passive training led to significant HRA alternation and the application of HRA gave us the possibility for autonomic assessment.
Buckling of elastic fibers in a shear flow
Authors: Słowicka Agnieszka M , Xue Nan , Sznajder Paweł , Nunes Janine K , Stone Howard A , Ekiel-Jeżewska Maria L 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Three-dimensional dynamics of flexible fibers in shear flow are studied numerically, with a qualitative comparison to experiments. Initially, the fibers are straight, with different orientations with respect to the flow. By changing the rotation speed of a shear rheometer, we change the ratio A of bending to shear forces. We observe fibers in the flow-vorticity plane, which gives insight into the motion out of the shear plane. The numerical simulations of moderately flexible fibers show that they rotate along effective Jeffery orbits, and therefore the fiber orientation rapidly becomes very close to the flow-vorticity plane, on average close to the flow direction, and the fiber remains in an almost straight configuration for a long time. This ‘ordering’ of fibers is temporary since they alternately bend and straighten while tumbling. We observe numerically and experimentally that if the fibers are initially in the compressional region of the shear flow, they can undergo compressional buckling, with a pronounced deformation of shape along their whole length during a short time, which is in contrast to the typical local bending that originates over a long time from the fiber ends. We identify differences between local and compressional bending and discuss their competition, which depends on the initial orientation of the fiber and the bending stiffness ratio A. There are two main finding. First, the compressional buckling is limited to a certain small range of the initial orientations, excluding those from the flow-vorticity plane. Second, since fibers straighten in the flow-vorticity plane while tumbling, the compressional buckling is transient—it does not appear for times longer than 1/4 of the Jeffery period. For larger times, bending of fibers is always driven by their ends.
Effect of slip boundary condition and non-newtonian rheology of lubricants on the dynamic characteristics of finite hydrodynamic journal bearing
Authors: Arif Mohammad , Kango Saurabh , Shukla Dinesh Kumar 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In the present study, the influence of various slip zone locations on the dynamic stability of finite hydrodynamic journal bearing lubricated with non-Newtonian and Newtonian lubricants has been investigated. Linearized equation of motion with free vibration of rigid rotor has been used to find the optimum location of the slip region with maximum stability margin limit. It has been observed that bearing with interface of slip and no-slip region near the upstream side of minimum film-thickness location is effective in improving the direct and cross stiffness coefficient, critical mass parameter, and critical whirling speed. The magnitude of dynamic performance parameters with slip effect is highly dependent on the rheology of lubricant. Shear-thinning lubricants combined with slip boundary condition shows higher dynamic stability as compared to the Newtonian lubricants under the conventional boundary condition. For all considered rheology of lubricants, the dynamic stability of bearing with slip effect is improving by increasing the eccentricity ratio.
Green synthesis of Zinc sulphide (ZnS) nanostructures using S. frutescences plant extract for photocatalytic degradation of dyes and antibiotics
Authors: Munyai Shonisani , Mahlaule-Glory Louisa M , Hintsho-Mbita Nomso Charmaine 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Pollutants such as dyes and pharmaceuticals have become a problem in the environment, thus there is a need to find multifunctional materials that are safe and can be used for the removal of various pollutants. In this study, we report on the synthesis of Zinc sulphide (ZnS) nanostructures and their use as photocatalysts for the degradation of dyes and various antibiotics. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the functional groups found in plants and these were linked to the biomolecules identified through Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS). Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–vis) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of the ZnS nanostructures. Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Brunner Emmet Teller (BET) confirmed the material was thermally stable up until 480 °C and mesoporous in nature, respectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed that the material is spherical in shape and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) further corroborated their formation. From the degradation analysis, 90% of the malachite green (MG) dye could be degraded in 60 min at optimum conditions (pH 6, 25 mg and 10 mg l−1) and the holes were responsible for the degradation. Lastly, when tested against antibiotics, the ZnS material managed to degrade both the sulfisoxazole (SSX) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX). These results showed that the ZnS nanoparticles could be used as a multifunctional material for the degradation of various pollutants.
Preparation and thermophysical properties of graphite flake-carbon fiber coreinforced copper matrix composites
Authors: Huang Junchen , Miu Guodong , Liu Tongle , Huang Chen , Guo Shibo , Liu Qian 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Graphite flake-carbon fiber coreinforced copper matrix composites were prepared by vacuum hot pressing technology. The carbon fibers were dispersed ultrasonic in alcohol and then mixed with graphite flake and alloys powder (Zr and Cu) for hot pressing sintering. The effects of the carbon fiber content on the microstructure, bending strength and thermal conductivity of the composites were investigated. The results show that the interface of the composites is well bonded. When the volume fraction of carbon fiber is 1%–3%, the carbon fiber can be uniformly dispersed in the matrix, and the bending strength of the composites can be improved effectively. When the volume fraction of carbon fiber is 2%, the bending strength reaches a maximum of 152 MPa, which is an increase of 60% compared with that of the composites without carbon fiber. However, an excessive addition of carbon fiber (4% or more) leads to an uneven distribution of carbon fiber, and the bending strength of the composites decreases. When the volume fraction of carbon fiber is 2%, the thermal conductivity of the composite is 597 W·m−1·K−1. The acoustic mismatch model (AMM) associated with the Digimat MF module is able to predict the thermal conductivity of the anisotropic multiphase composites.
Characteristics of megahertz resonant platform for evaluating sensitivity of photoacoustic contrast agent
Authors: Qu Shili , Nakamura Kentaro 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
A platform designed exclusively for evaluating photoacoustic contrast agents is required to prevent deviations in the results caused by differences in the architecture of photoacoustic imaging systems. In this paper, we managed to develop an evaluation system using a cost-efficient laser diode running in megahertz frequency band. To increase the output signal, an acoustic resonance structure is introduced where the sample liquid is filled in a glass capillary embedded in a soft phantom. The optimal width and interval of the excitation pulse were investigated and found to be 230 ns and 4.92 μs, respectively. Experimental results on inks and Indocyanine green verified the feasibility and effectiveness of the platform. Next, as a non-resonant platform, the glass capillary was replaced with a soft tube to examine the signal enhancement effect of the resonance. The signal-to-noise ratio was on average improved 2.5-fold by the resonance occurring in the glass capillary. The success in improving the signal-to-noise ratio may ensure the lower requirement on the laser power, which could consequently suppress the cost of the evaluation platform.