bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Integrated 3D printed microfluidic circuitry and soft microrobotic actuators via in situ direct laser writing
Authors: Alsharhan Abdullah T , M Young Olivia , Xu Xin , Stair Anthony J , Sochol Ryan D 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Over the past two decades, researchers have advanced and employed integrated microfluidic circuitry to enable a wide range of chemical and biological ‘lab-on-a-chip’ capabilities. Yet in recent years, a wholly different field, soft robotics, has begun harnessing microfluidic circuitry as a promising means to enhance soft robot autonomy. Unfortunately, key challenges associated with not only the fabrication of microfluidic circuitry, but also its integration with soft robotic systems represent critical barriers to progress. To overcome such issues, here we present a strategy that leverages ‘in situ direct laser writing (isDLW)’—a submicron-scale additive manufacturing (or ‘three-dimensional (3D) printing’) approach developed previously by our group—to fabricate microfluidic circuit elements and soft microrobotic actuators directly inside of enclosed microchannels. In addition, we introduce ‘normally closed’ microfluidic transistors that comprise free-floating sealing discs designed to block source-to-drain fluid flow until the application of a target gate pressure. As an exemplar, we printed microfluidic transistors with distinct gate activation properties as well as identical soft microgrippers downstream of each drain within 40 µm-tall microchannels. Experimental results for a source pressure of 100 kPa revealed that microgripper deformation was prevented in the absence of a gate input; however, increasing the gate pressure to 300 kPa induced actuation of one set of microgrippers, while a further increase to 400 kPa led to both sets of microgrippers actuating successfully. These results suggest that the presented isDLW-based strategy for manufacturing and integrating 3D microfluidic circuit elements and microrobotic end effectors could offer unique potential for emerging soft robotic applications.
Carbon dioxide adsorption and activation on gallium phosphide surface monitored by ambient pressure x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Ye Yifan , Su Hongyang , Lee Kyung-Jae , Larson David , Valero-Vidal Carlos , Blum Monika , Yano Junko , Crumlin Ethan J 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Gallium phosphide (GaP) is a promising catalyst material used in the photo-electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, experimental data needed to interpret the interactions between CO2 and GaP at their interfaces must be gathered in order to develop advanced GaP based catalysts for the CO2RR. Here we used ambient pressure x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to characterize the surface chemistry at 298 K on the GaP surface exposed to CO2 alone and in the presence of H2O under both dark and illuminated conditions. We found that a carbonate-like configuration is stable on the GaP surface exposed solely to 0.35 Torr CO2. Shining solar light promoted the CO2 dissociation process on the surface while negligibly influencing the CO2 adsorption configuration on GaP. Based on the surface chemistry change under dark and illuminated conditions, we propose a CO2 dissociation pathway on GaP. We also found that linear physisorbed CO2 formed on the surface of GaP when 0.35 Torr CO2 is co-dosed with 0.35 Torr H2O. Co-dosing H2O with CO2 also created a surface dipole, which is further influenced by solar light illumination. This work provides a fundamental atomic level understanding of how CO2 adsorption and activation happened on the GaP surface and how it was further influenced by solar light.
Performance enhancement of charge plasma-based junctionless TFET (JL-TFET) using stimulated n-pocket and heterogeneous gate dielectric
Authors: Hussain Sazzad , Mustakim Nafis , Hasan Mehedhi , Saha Jibesh Kanti 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Junctionless tunneling field-effect transistor (JL-TFET) is an excellent potential alternative to conventional MOSFET and TFET due to the lack of a steep doping profile, which makes it easier to fabricate. JL-TFET not only offers a lower subthreshold swing (SS) compared to MOSFET, but mitigates the low on-current problem associated with conventional TFET. The DC and analog characteristics of JL-TFET can be further improved by design modifications. In this research, we have presented two novel structures of JL-TFET: stimulated n-pocket JL-TFET (SNPJL-TFET) and SNPJL-TFET with heterogeneous gate dielectric. The performance of these devices has been gauged against conventional JL-TFET. Both novel structures exhibit excellent performance including point SS around 20 mV/dec, high I
ON/I
OFF in the order of 1014 and lower threshold voltage (V
T). By analyzing RF and linearity parameters such as the transconductance generation factor, F
T, transit time, total factor productivity, second-order voltage intercept point, third-order voltage intercept point, third-order input intercept point and third-order intermodulation distortion, it is observed that the proposed devices are more suitable for RF applications since they show superiority in most of the analyzed parameters.
A study of Type B uncertainties associated with the photoelectric effect in low-energy Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Valdes-Cortez Christian , Mansour Iymad , Rivard Mark J , Ballester Facundo , Mainegra-Hing Ernesto , Thomson Rowan M , Vijande Javier 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Purpose. To estimate Type B uncertainties in absorbed-dose calculations arising from the different implementations in current state-of-the-art Monte Carlo (MC) codes of low-energy photon cross-sections (<200 keV). Methods. MC simulations are carried out using three codes widely used in the low-energy domain: PENELOPE-2018, EGSnrc, and MCNP. Three dosimetry-relevant quantities are considered: mass energy-absorption coefficients for water, air, graphite, and their respective ratios; absorbed dose; and photon-fluence spectra. The absorbed dose and the photon-fluence spectra are scored in a spherical water phantom of 15 cm radius. Benchmark simulations using similar cross-sections have been performed. The differences observed between these quantities when different cross-sections are considered are taken to be a good estimator for the corresponding Type B uncertainties. Results. A conservative Type B uncertainty for the absorbed dose (k = 2) of 1.2%–1.7% (<50 keV), 0.6%–1.2% (50–100 keV), and 0.3% (100–200 keV) is estimated. The photon-fluence spectrum does not present clinically relevant differences that merit considering additional Type B uncertainties except for energies below 25 keV, where a Type B uncertainty of 0.5% is obtained. Below 30 keV, mass energy-absorption coefficients show Type B uncertainties (k = 2) of about 1.5% (water and air), and 2% (graphite), diminishing in all materials for larger energies and reaching values about 1% (40–50 keV) and 0.5% (50–75 keV). With respect to their ratios, the only significant Type B uncertainties are observed in the case of the water-to-graphite ratio for energies below 30 keV, being about 0.7% (k = 2). Conclusions. In contrast with the intermediate (about 500 keV) or high (about 1 MeV) energy domains, Type B uncertainties due to the different cross-sections implementation cannot be considered subdominant with respect to Type A uncertainties or even to other sources of Type B uncertainties (tally volume averaging, manufacturing tolerances, etc). Therefore, the values reported here should be accommodated within the uncertainty budget in low-energy photon dosimetry studies.
A Mechanistic Overview of Taste Bud Maintenance and Impairment in Cancer Therapies
Authors: Gaillard Dany , Barlow Linda A 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Since the early 20th century, progress in cancer therapies has significantly improved disease prognosis. Nonetheless, cancer treatments are often associated with side effects that can negatively affect patient well-being and disrupt the course of treatment. Among the main side effects, taste impairment is associated with depression, malnutrition, and morbid weight loss. Although relatively common, taste disruption associated with cancer therapies remains poorly understood. Here, we review the current knowledge related to the molecular mechanisms underlying taste maintenance and disruption in the context of cancer therapies.
Economic fluctuations and pseudo-wealth
Authors: Stiglitz Joseph E , Guzman Martin M 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
What can explain the large changes in aggregate demand that occur in the absence of any seemingly corresponding shock to the underlying state variables of the economy? We show that macroeconomic volatility can arise from dispersions of beliefs among agents. Such dispersion gives rise to bets and other trades in speculative assets. Such trades give rise to pseudo-wealth, wealth that individuals believe they have on the basis of expectations of returns on these gambles. In the aggregate, when there are enough opportunities for trade and large enough dispersions in beliefs, this perceived wealth may be dangerously untethered to either market wealth or the real wealth of the economy. Given the increased dispersion in beliefs that naturally arises from unprecedented shocks, the theory of pseudo-wealth provides new understandings of both the origins of unanticipated fluctuations and their magnitude, markedly different from prevailing theories grounded in common knowledge and beliefs among individuals. This paper explores the empirical and theoretical underpinnings of pseudo-wealth, links the concept to observed macroeconomic fluctuations, and lays out a research agenda that might help us better understand the role of pseudo-wealth and the circumstances in which it is pronounced.
The pandemic economic crisis, precautionary behavior, and mobility constraints: an application of the dynamic disequilibrium model with randomness†
Authors: Stiglitz Joseph E , Guzman Martin M 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This article analyzes the economic impact of the pandemic, providing insights into the consequences of alternative policies. Our framework focuses on three key features: (i) The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a sectoral shock of unknown depth and duration affecting some sectors and technologies more than others; (ii) there are constraints in shifting resources across sectors; and (iii) there is a high level of uncertainty about the disease and its economic aftermath, inducing a high level of precautionary behavior by some agents and leading to others facing more severe credit constraints. Because of macroeconomic externalities, precautionary behavior exacerbates the downturn, and even sectors where COVID-19 does not directly affect consumption or production may face unemployment. Multipliers associated with different government expenditure programs differ markedly. The article describes policies that can mitigate precautionary behavior, leading to reduced unemployment. Greater wage flexibility may lead to increased unemployment.
The precautionary principle and genetically modified organisms: A bone of contention between European institutions and member states
Authors: Guida Alessandra 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This manuscript examines how the Precautionary Principle has been applied to provide a mechanism for protection of the environment and health in response to the introduction of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Europe. It discusses how the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) handled national requests across four cases in which Member States had failed in their attempt to trigger the Precautionary Principle in order to uphold a ban or suspension of the cultivation or sale of GMOs in their territory. The analysis of these judgements suggests that the court has applied a narrow interpretation to the scientific evidence emerging from risk assessments, and has thereby limited the potential for precautionary measures by Member States to be upheld by the court. This outcome reflects a `weak' application of the Precautionary Principle by the court in contrast with the `moderate' formulation and `strong' interpretation of the principle offered by the European legal framework. Moreover, the analysis highlights that the CJEU's rulings are not keeping pace with the development of the European normative framework which considers the Precautionary Principle as a key tenet and, through the 2015 Directive, enables Member States to ban GMO cultivation without referring to scientific evidence.
Neutron conversion–diffusion: a new model for structured short gamma-ray burst jets compatible with GRB 170817
Authors: Preau Edwan , Ioka Kunihito , Mészáros Peter 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT
We present a generic theoretical model for the structuring of a relativistic jet propagating through the ejecta of a binary neutron star merger event, introducing the effects of the neutron conversion–diffusion, which provides a baryon flux propagating transversely from the ejecta towards the jet axis. This results naturally in an increased baryon load structure of the outer jet with the approximate isotropic energy distribution Eiso(θ) ∝ θ−4, which is compatible with the first gravitational wave and short gamma-ray burst event GW170817/GRB 170817A observed at an off-axis angle of the jet.
On-sky measurements of atmospheric dispersion – II. Atmospheric models characterization
Authors: Wehbe B , Cabral A , Sbordone L , Ávila G 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT
Differential atmospheric dispersion is a wavelength-dependent effect introduced by Earth’s atmosphere that affects astronomical observations performed using ground-based telescopes. It is important, when observing at a zenithal angle different from zero, to use an Atmospheric Dispersion Corrector (ADC) to compensate this atmospheric dispersion. The design of an ADC is based on atmospheric models that, to the best of our knowledge, were never tested against on-sky measurements. We present an extensive models analysis in the wavelength range of 315–665 nm. The method we used was previously described in the paper I of this series. It is based on the use of cross-dispersion spectrographs to determine the position of the centroid of the spatial profile at each wavelength of each spectral order. The accuracy of the method is 18 mas. At this level, we are able to compare and characterize the different atmospheric dispersion models of interest. For better future ADC designs, we recommend to avoid the Zemax model, and in particular in the blue range of the spectra, when expecting residuals at the level of few tens of milli-arcseconds.
Formation of dwarf galaxies in major gas-rich disc–disc mergers
Authors: Dumont Amélie , Martel Hugo 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT
Galaxies usually follow a mass–metallicity relation, where higher mass galaxies are typically more metal-rich than lower mass galaxies. Yet, tidal dwarf galaxies are outliers to this relation. These kinds of dwarfs are formed in galactic mergers. Since their material comes from the parent galaxies, they are typically more metal-rich than regular dwarfs. However, galaxies were far less enriched when the Universe was younger. One can ask if tidal dwarfs that formed at high redshift could be chemically distinguished from regular dwarfs. To answer this question, we performed a series of numerical simulations of gas-rich galaxy mergers at high redshift. We then identified the dwarf galaxies that formed in these mergers, and studied the evolution of their metal content. While the initial abundance of metals in the progenitors was low, the merger allows rapid enrichment and all tidal dwarf galaxies end up with high abundances. Their mass–metallicity relation is well fitted by the relation $12+\log ({\rm O/H})=5.47+0.415\log (M_*/\,{\rm {M}_\odot})$, putting them well above the observed relation for local dwarfs galaxies. We conclude that tidal dwarfs should be outliers to the mass–metallicity relation, no matter the epoch of formation.
TISIGNER.com: web services for improving recombinant protein production
Authors: Bhandari Bikash K , Lim Chun Shen , Gardner Paul P 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Experiments that are planned using accurate prediction algorithms will mitigate failures in recombinant protein production. We have developed TISIGNER (https://tisigner.com) with the aim of addressing technical challenges to recombinant protein production. We offer three web services, TIsigner (Translation Initiation coding region designer), SoDoPE (Soluble Domain for Protein Expression) and Razor, which are specialised in synonymous optimisation of recombinant protein expression, solubility and signal peptide analysis, respectively. Importantly, TIsigner, SoDoPE and Razor are linked, which allows users to switch between the tools when optimising genes of interest.
If You Mix Them, They Will Learn: Using Simulation to Foster Multilevel Peer-to-Peer Engagement Through an Innovative Clinical Make-Up Program
Authors: Fieler Gina , Hart Julie A. , Nordheim Shawn M. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Clinical experiences are an essential component of nursing education. However, at times, students are unable to attend scheduled clinical experiences because of illness or personal issues. We describe how a baccalaureate program of nursing used an innovative approach to manage clinical absence. Simulation educators placed students from every level of the program in teams during clinical make-up simulation scenarios. Students participating in the multilevel simulations identified leadership, mentorship, reinforcement of nursing concepts, clinical skill improvement, and the opportunity to support one another as benefits of the program.
The Effects of Paraspinal Muscle Volume on Physiological Load on the Lumbar Vertebral Column
Authors: Kang Sungwook , Chang Min Cheol , Kim Hwanjin , Kim Jaewoong , Jang Youngjae , Park Donghwi , Hwang Jong-moon 
Published: March 2021

Study Design.
Analytical biomechanical study using a finite-element (FE) model.

Objective.
We investigated the effects of paraspinal muscle volume to the physiological loading on the lower lumbar vertebral column using a FE model.

Summary of Background Data.
The FE model analysis can measure the physiological load on the lumbar vertebral column. Which changes as the surrounding environment changes. In this study, our FE model consisted of the sacrum, lumbar spine (L3–L5), intervertebral discs, facet joints, and paraspinal muscles.

Methods.
Three-dimensional FE models of healthy lumbar spinal units were reconstructed. The physiological loads exerted on the lumbar vertebra column were evaluated by applying different paraspinal muscle volumes (without muscles, 50%, 80%, and 100% of healthy muscle volume).

Results.
As the paraspinal muscle volume increased, the loads exerted on the vertebral column decreased. The mean load on the intervertebral disc was 1.42 ± 0.75 MPa in the model without muscle, 1.393 ± 0.73 MPa in the 50% muscle volume model, 1.367 ± 0.71 MPa in the 80% muscle volume model, and 1.362 ± 0.71 MPa in the 100% muscle volume model. The mean loads exerted on the posterior column of lumbar spine were 11.79 ± 4.70 MPa in the model without muscles, 11.57 ± 4.57 MPa in the model with 50% muscle volume, and 11.13 ± 4.51 MPa in the model with 80% muscle volume, and 10.92 ± 4.33 MPa in the model with 100% muscle volume. The mean pressure on the vertebral body in the model without paraspinal muscle, and with 50%, 80%, and 100% paraspinal muscle volume were 14.02 ± 2.82, 13.82 ± 2.62, 13.65 ± 2.61, and 13.59 ± 2.51 MPa, respectively.

Conclusion.
Using FEM, we observed that the paraspinal muscle volume decreases pressure exerted on the lumbar vertebral column. Based on these results, we believe that exercising to increase paraspinal muscle volume would be helpful for spinal pain management and preventing lumbar spine degeneration.

Level of Evidence: N/A
Comparison of Cost and Perioperative Outcome Profiles for Primary and Revision Posterior Cervical Fusion Procedures
Authors: Martini Michael L. , Baron Rebecca B. , Gal Jonathan S. , Neifert Sean N. , Shuman William H. , Schupper Alexander J. , Chapman Emily K. , McNeill Ian T. , Steinberger Jeremy , Caridi John M. 
Published: March 2021

Study Design.
Retrospective analysis.

Objective.
To compare perioperative outcomes and hospitalization costs between patients undergoing primary or revision posterior cervical discectomy and fusion (PCDF).

Summary of Background Data.
While prior studies found differences in outcomes between primary and revision anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), risk, and outcome profiles for posterior cervical revision procedures have not yet been elucidated.

Methods.
Institutional records were queried for cases involving isolated PCDF procedures to evaluate preoperative characteristics and outcomes for patients undergoing primary versus revision PCDF between 2008 and 2016. The primary outcome was perioperative complications, while perioperative and resource utilization measures such as hospitalization length, required stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), direct hospitalization costs, and 30-day emergency department (ED) admissions were explored as secondary outcomes.

Results.
One thousand one hundred twenty four patients underwent PCDF, with 218 (19.4%) undergoing a revision procedure. Patients undergoing revision procedures were younger (53.0 vs. 60.5 yrs), but had higher Elixhauser scores compared with the non-revision cohort. Revision cases tended to involve fewer spinal segments (3.6 vs. 4.1 segments) and shorter surgical durations (179.3 vs. 206.3 min), without significant differences in estimated blood loss. There were no significant differences in the overall complication rates (P = 0.20), however, the primary cohort had greater rates of required ICU stays (P = 0.0005) and non-home discharges (P = 0.0003). The revision cohort did experience significantly increased odds of 30-day ED admission (P = 0.04) and had higher direct hospitalization (P = 0.03) and surgical (P < 0.0001) costs.

Conclusion.
Complication rates, including incidental durotomy, were similar between primary and revision PCDF cohorts. Although prior surgery status did not predict complication risk, comorbidity burden did. Nevertheless, patients undergoing revision procedures had decreased risk of required ICU stay but greater risk of 30-day ED admission and higher direct hospitalization and surgical costs.

Level of Evidence: 3