bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive review of recent research trends in dielectric elastomer transducers: applications, materials, and fabrication
Authors: Gu Hao 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Although rigid transducers have led to innovations in industrial automation and control systems, their rigidity limits them to the controlled environment of the factory. Recently, soft transducers have become an attractive area of research because their compliant nature has the potential to be applied to soft-bodied robots that operate in uncontrolled environments. Dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) demonstrate large electrically-driven deformations, high energy density, fast response, long lifespans, and self-healing capabilities, making them a favorable replacement for rigid transducers. This review first introduces the working principles of DETs, modeling work, and DET configurations. Subsequently, the applications of DETs in robotics, generators, sensors, and electronics are reviewed. Finally, the challenges currently faced by DET technology are discussed and potential approaches are explored.
Generation of low-temperature plasma by pulse-width modulated signals and monitoring of the interaction thereof with the surface of objects
Authors: MA 马 Tianbao 天宝 , KALENKOVICH Yauheni , ROKACH Valeriy , OSIPOV Anatoly 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The article discusses the use of pulse-width modulation signals to generate low-temperature atmospheric plasma in an inert gas environment. The results of studies of the energy consumption of a low-temperature plasma generation system depending on the duty rate, as well as the pulse repetition rate, are presented. The operating modes of the system have been established, in which a minimum of energy consumption is achieved. The issues of evaluating the interaction of plasma with objects based on the analysis of changes in signal parameters in the high-voltage circuit of the generator are also considered.
A Delphi study on identifying environmental risk factors in the construction of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
Authors: Hussain Iqtidar , Zhonggen Sun , Hussain Israr 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) represents a monumental initiative aimed at enhancing economic cooperation between China and Pakistan. However, the construction and operational phases of CPEC are fraught with numerous environmental risks that could impede its successful implementation. This study employs the Delphi method to systematically identify and evaluate the environmental risk factors associated with CPEC. A panel of experts from diverse fields, including environmental science, engineering, and regional planning, participated in multiple rounds of surveys to reach a consensus on the most critical environmental threats. Various studies have addressed general environmental impacts of large-scale projects, there is a gap in targeted research that systematically identifies and evaluates specific environmental risk factors associated with CPEC. This study aims to fill this gap by providing a detailed and consensus-based understanding. The findings highlight key risk areas such as carbon emission, climate change, air quality deterioration, and biodiversity loss. By providing a comprehensive risk assessment, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and project managers to develop robust mitigation strategies, ensuring the sustainable development of CPEC. The study underscores the importance of proactive environmental management in large-scale infrastructure projects within ecologically sensitive regions.
A review for design, mechanism, fabrication, and application of magnetically responsive microstructured functional surface
Authors: Wang Jian , Song Xingyi , Wang Chaochao , Zhou Yumei , Chen Ri , Yang Yong , Liu Bin , Zheng Yihao , Li Hui , Zhou Wei , Jiang Lelun 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Magnetically responsive microstructured functional surface (MRMFS), capable of dynamically and reversibly switching the surface topography under magnetic actuation, provides a wireless, noninvasive, and instantaneous way to accurately control the microscale engineered surface. In the last decade, many studies have been conducted to design and optimize MRMFSs for diverse applications, and significant progress has been accomplished. This review comprehensively presents recent advancements and the potential prospects in MRMFSs. We first classify MRMFSs into one-dimensional linear array MRMFSs, two-dimensional planar array MRMFSs, and dynamic self-assembly MRMFSs based on their morphology. Subsequently, an overview of three deformation mechanisms, including magnetically actuated bending deformation, magnetically driven rotational deformation, and magnetically induced self-assembly deformation, are provided. Four main fabrication strategies employed to create MRMFSs are summarized, including replica molding, magnetization-induced self-assembly, laser cutting, and ferrofluid-infused method. Furthermore, the applications of MRMFS in droplet manipulation, solid transport, information encryption, light manipulation, triboelectric nanogenerators, and soft robotics are presented. Finally, the challenges that limit the practical applications of MRMFSs are discussed, and the future development of MRMFSs is proposed.
Deviant Bodies
Authors: Teixeira Ana Carolina Bezerra 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This chapter aims to discuss the practice of Contact Improvisation in Brazil from the experience of disabled bodies in Brazilian dance companies and through the legacies of choreographers such as Maria Duschenes, Steve Paxton, and Alito Alesi, among others. This text is also guided by the author’s experience of Contact Improvisation in dance companies and in their solo career as a disabled artist and educator. It proposes a critical effort on how perceptions of disability are still denied in Contact Improvisation practices, since the insertion of these bodies remains from a laboratory perspective of movement research. The phenomenon of improvisation is expanded in this chapter beyond the fields of dance and problematizes the Brazilian body, its social and political contexts (exclusion culture, violence, poverty, social deviances), versus the discussion about an inclusive model that is still hostage to a productive logic, especially in the performing arts.
Comparison of Different Types of Poly-L-Lactic Acid Microspheres In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Liu Ruilin , He Tong , Li Ruizhi , Wang Shiwei , Lai Chen , Zhang Kun 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Biodegradable polymers are commonly used as dermal fillers in plastic surgery. Among these, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) distinguishes itself owing to its good biocompatibility, degradability, and ability to act as a collagen stimulator.

Objectives
In this study, the differential behavior of PLLA microspheres with varying microscopic morphology and surface hydrophilicity was investigated both in vitro and in vivo.

Methods
The introduction of short hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains into the PLLA molecule was employed to modify the morphology and enhance the surface hydrophilicity of the microspheres. The morphology and physicochemical properties of the PLLA and PLLA-b-PEG microspheres were characterized. Irregular PLLA particles, PLLA, and PLLA-b-PEG microspheres were implanted into the subcutaneous tissue of rabbit models, and at 4, 26, and 52 weeks after implantation, biopsy samples were collected for hematoxylin and eosin and Masson’s trichrome staining to evaluate differences in the tissue response between different implants.

Results
The results of in vitro research demonstrated that while the addition of short-chain hydrophilic PEG afforded a smoother surface for the microspheres, it had no significant effect on the molecular weight and degradation rate of PLLA. The histological examination revealed that the PLLA-b-PEG microspheres exhibited enhanced biocompatibility compared with the pure PLLA microspheres, while the irregular PLLA particles showed the highest inflammatory response among the 3 materials.

Conclusions
In this study, we found that the properties of PLLA were improved upon modification by short-chain PEG without reducing the collagen regeneration ability, thereby affording a better histocompatibility.

Level of Evidence: 5 (Therapeutic)
Microplastics are detected in bull epididymal sperm and polystyrene microparticles impair sperm fertilization
Authors: Grechi N , Ferronato G A , Devkota S , Ferraz M A M M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
An increase in global infertility has coincided with the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the environment. This trend is particularly troubling because only 10% of male infertility cases can be attributed to identifiable causes, leaving a knowledge gap in our understanding of their underlying factors. To bridge this, it is important to explore the connection between the accumulation of MPs and the observed decline in male fertility. We assessed the presence of microplastics in epididymal sperm from bulls and used it as baseline concentrations for sperm exposure. MPs were detected in all epidydimal sperm (ES) samples, with a mean concentration of 0.37 μg mL−1. Next, to investigate the effects of MPs on fertility, bovine sperm was exposed to three different concentrations of a mixture of 1.1, 0.5, and 0.3 μm polystyrene (PS) beads: (1) 0.7 μg mL−1, blood concentration of PS in cows (bPS); (2) 0.37 μg mL−1, based on the concentration of total MPs found in ES (esMP); and (3) 0.026 μg mL−1, based on the concentration of PS found in ES (esPS). All sperm samples incubated with PS exhibited reduced motility compared with the control at 0.5 h. However, PS exposure did not affect acrosome integrity or induced oxidative stress. Embryos produced from sperm exposed to PS had reduced blastocyst rates, in addition to increased ROS formation and apoptosis. By employing physiological exposure, this research provided evidence of MPs in bovine epididymal sperm and demonstrated the detrimental effect of PS on sperm functionality.
Software codesign between end users and developers to enhance utility for biodiversity conservation
Authors: Blair Mary E , Noguera-Urbano Elkin A , Ochoa-Quintero Jose Manuel , Paz Andrea , Lopez-Gallego Cristina , Echeverry-Galvis María Ángela , Zuloaga Juan , Rodríguez Pilar , Lemus-Mejia Leonardo , Ersts Peter , López-Lozano Daniel F , Aiello-Lammens Matthew E , Arango Hector M , Buitrago Leonardo , Chang Triguero Samuel , Cruz-Rodríguez Cristian A , Díaz-Nieto Juan F , Escobar Dairo , Grisales-Betancur Valentina , Johnson Bethany A , Kass Jamie M , Londoño-Murcia María C , Merow Cory , Muñoz-Rodríguez Carlos J , Olaya-Rodríguez María Helena , Parra Juan L , Pinilla-Buitrago Gonzalo E , Roach Nicolette S , Rojas-Soto Octavio , Roncancio-Duque Néstor , Suárez-Valencia Erika , Urbina-Cardona J Nicolás , Velásquez-Tibatá Jorge , Zapata-Martinez Camilo A , Anderson Robert P 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Creating software tools that address the needs of a wide range of decision-makers requires the inclusion of differing perspectives throughout the development process. Software tools for biodiversity conservation often fall short in this regard, partly because broad decision-maker needs may exceed the toolkits of single research groups or even institutions. We show that participatory, collaborative codesign enhances the utility of software tools for better decision-making in biodiversity conservation planning, as demonstrated by our experiences developing a set of integrated tools in Colombia. Specifically, we undertook an interdisciplinary, multi-institutional collaboration of ecological modelers, software engineers, and a diverse profile of potential end users, including decision-makers, conservation practitioners, and biodiversity experts. We leveraged and modified common paradigms of software production, including codesign and agile development, to facilitate collaboration through all stages (including conceptualization, development, testing, and feedback) to ensure the accessibility and applicability of the new tools to inform decision-making for biodiversity conservation planning.
Impact of a national guideline for the management of peripheral arterial disease on revascularization rates in England: interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Maheswaran Ravi , Tong Thaison , Michaels Jonathan , Brindley Paul , Walters Stephen , Nawaz Shah 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
A national guideline on peripheral arterial disease management in England was issued in August 2012. The impact on revascularization rates was examined and variation with socioeconomic deprivation assessed.

Methods
Annual hospital admissions for England over 10 years (2008–2009 to 2017–2018) were examined using interrupted time series analysis. A pragmatic approach was used to classify admissions for revascularization into moderate and severe categories.

Results
There were 309 839 admissions (56% for moderate peripheral arterial disease), with an overall annual admission rate for revascularization of 86 per 100 000 population aged 25+ years. The rate for moderate peripheral arterial disease marginally increased by 0.29 per 100 000 per year (95% c.i. −0.22 to 0.80) from 2008–2009 to 2012–2013. Following guideline introduction, this rate decreased. The equivalent for severe peripheral arterial disease increased by 1.33 per 100 000 (0.78 to 1.88). Following guideline introduction, this rate plateaued. The change in rate (slope) for moderate peripheral arterial disease of −2.81 per 100 000 per year (−3.52 to −2.10) after guideline introduction was greater than the change in rate for severe peripheral arterial disease of −1.95 per 100 000 per year (−2.73 to −1.17). For moderate peripheral arterial disease, the annual rate in the most socioeconomically deprived category was 15.6 per 100 000 lower in 2017–2018 compared with 2012–2013 (24.3% decrease). The impact progressively diminished with decreasing deprivation. In the least deprived category, the reduction was 5.2 per 100 000 (12.9% decrease). For severe peripheral arterial disease, the decrease was 1.2 per 100 000 (3.1% reduction) with no consistent variation in relation to deprivation.

Conclusion
Introduction of the national peripheral arterial disease management guideline in England was associated with a reduction in admission rates for revascularization, especially for moderate peripheral arterial disease, with greater reduction in rates for moderate peripheral arterial disease in more socioeconomically deprived areas. Association, however, does not necessarily imply causation and alternative explanations cannot be ruled out.
Comparing bioimpedance spectrometry and traditional creatinine kinetics methods for the assessment of muscle mass in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Xu Lixing , Ng Jack Kit-Chung , Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Fung Winston Wing-Shing , Chow Kai-Ming , Szeto Cheuk-Chun 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Background
Sarcopenia is a common and serious problem in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD). Lean tissue mass (LTM) by bioimpedance spectrometry is a reasonably accurate method for measuring muscle mass. Fat-free edema-free body mass (FEBM) as determined by the creatinine kinetics method is a traditional method but evidence to support its use is limited.

Methods
We studied 198 new PD patients. Their serial LTM and FEBM were reviewed and compared by the Bland and Altman method. Multi-variable regression model was used to determine factors associated with the disparity between the two methods.

Results
There was a significant but moderate correlation between LTM and FEBM (r = 0.309, P &lt; .0001). LTM was consistently higher than FEBM, with an average difference 13.98 kg (95% confidence interval −5.90 to 33.86 kg), and the difference strongly correlated with LTM (r = 0.781, P &lt; .0001). By multivariable linear regression analysis, LTM and residual renal function were independent predictors of the LTM–FEBM difference. Where the measurements were repeated in 12 months, there was no significant correlation between ∆LTM and ∆FEBM (r = −0.031, P = .799).

Conclusion
There is a significant difference between LTM and FFBM. This discrepancy correlated with LTM and residual renal function, highlighting the limitations of FFBM in assessing skeletal muscle mass.
Severe infections as risk factors for acute myocardial infarction: a nationwide, Danish cohort study from 1987 to 2018
Authors: Pedersen Emilie Marie Juelstorp , Yonis Harman , Egelund Gertrud Baunbæk , Lohse Nicolai , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Lindegaard Birgitte , Jensen Andreas Vestergaard 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aims
Infections have been associated with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), but differences in risk between infection types and age groups are unclear. This study aims to investigate whether infections are associated with subsequent AMI and whether the risk differs across infection sites and age groups.

Methods and results
Nationwide registers were used to include 702 596 adults hospitalized between 1987 and 2018 with either pneumonia (n = 344 319), urinary tract infection (UTI) (n = 270 101), soft tissue/bone infection (n = 66 718), central nervous system (CNS) infection (n = 17 025), or endocarditis (n = 4433). Patients were sex and age matched with two unexposed controls. Outcome was first-time AMI within 10 years. A time-dependent Cox proportional hazards model with cut-offs at 30 and 90 days was used for calculating adjusted hazard ratios (HRs). Pneumonia, UTI, and soft tissue/bone infection were associated with increased relative rates of AMI compared to matched, unexposed controls. Highest relative rates were found within the first 0–30 days post-exposure: pneumonia: HR 3.39 [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.15–3.65]; UTI: HR 2.44 (95% CI 2.21–2.70); soft tissue/bone infection: HR 1.84 (95% CI 1.45–2.33). Relative rates decreased over time but remained significantly elevated throughout the follow-up period and were increased in all age groups. No association was found for CNS infection and for endocarditis only at 31–90 days, HR 2.28 (95% CI 1.20–4.33).

Conclusion
Acute infections are associated with increased relative rates of AMI across different infection sites and age groups with higher relative rates found for pneumonia. This indicates that some infections may act as a trigger for AMI with a site and/or pathogen specific risk.
Ecological speciation in East African freshwater crabs of the genus Arcopotamonautes Bott, 1955 across a lake–river boundary in the Lake Malawi catchment (Potamoidea: Potamonautidae: Potamonatinae)
Authors: Layfield Harry J , Phelps Emily , Saxon Andrew D , Jones Ben , Gray Leila , Klaus Sebastian , Turner George F , Katongo Cyprian , Smith Alan M , Shechonge Asilatu H , Ngatunga Benjamin P , Gabagambi Nestory P , Cumberlidge Neil , Genner Martin J 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Geological, climate, and ecosystem changes in Africa probably influenced speciation of Afrotropical freshwater crabs. In total, the subfamily Potamonautinae comprises over 120 species, and this diversity provides a valuable opportunity to explore speciation processes. Here we study diversification of potamonautid crabs in the Lake Malawi catchment, and investigate whether speciation has taken place across a lake–river boundary. Specifically, we reconstruct evolutionary relationships of the Malawi blue crab, Arcopotamonautes orbitospinus (Cunnington, 1907), an endemic of Lake Malawi, and of A. montivagus (Chace, 1953) from rivers and streams draining into Lake Malawi, and smaller lakes within this catchment. Our phylogenetic analysis of over 28 000 single nucleotide polymorphisms shows a monophyletic A. orbitospinus nested within a clade otherwise comprising A. montivagus from across the Lake Malawi catchment (A. montivagus Group I). We also identified a second allopatric clade of A. montivagus from the Rungwe mountains of Tanzania, and neighbouring Zambia (A. montivagus Group II). Morphological differences were apparent between all three groups. Collectively these results show A. montivagus is a paraphyletic riverine taxon that has diversified in allopatry, and that this species entered Lake Malawi and seeded the specialized heavily armoured lacustrine species, A. orbitospinus. We hypothesize that formation of deep-water conditions within Lake Malawi, together with differences in predation pressures between the rivers and lake, provided ecological opportunities for natural selection to drive speciation across the lake–river boundary. We conclude that geographical separation and ecological adaptation are potentially important drivers of evolutionary diversification in these enigmatic freshwater crabs.
Strange Bedfellows: US Occupation Officials and German Catholic Organizations
Authors: Makin Stephanie 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Following the end of the Second World War, Cold War political tensions reinforced US officials’ desire to form strong transnational partnerships in occupied Germany to help stoke anti-communist resolve and foster an acceptance of US leadership within the emerging Western camp. The Special Projects Program, a US State Department initiative, was instrumental in bridging cultural gulfs between the American occupation administration and the German Catholic community, which had long been wary of American influence on Germany society. As a result of the program, the US occupation administration and Catholic institutions cooperatively carried out policy objectives in West Germany that helped mould the country into a Western-style democracy and promoted a shared transatlantic Western culture.
Enhancing real-time earth–air heat exchanger outlet temperature forecasting in arid climates using artificial neural network: a case study from Bechar, Algeria
Authors: Kifouche Abdessalam , Kaddour Abdelmadjid , Lalmi Djemoui , Chenini Nadir , Alkhafaji Mohammed Ayad , Chambashi Gilbert , Kaid Noureddine , Menni Younes 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This study improves earth–air heat exchanger (EAHE) outlet temperature forecasting using artificial neural networks (ANNs) to enhance building energy efficiency. Leveraging data from Bechar, Algeria, an arid climate, a FFBPNN with one hidden layer was trained, validated, and tested. Increasing the number of neurons in the hidden layer significantly improved model accuracy. The optimal architecture, with 40 hidden neurons, demonstrated high predictive accuracy, as shown by reduced MSE and increased R2 values across datasets. This research highlights the potential of ANN-based models to optimize EAHE system performance, contributing to energy-efficient building designs, particularly in arid regions.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Lineages in a Minimally Vaccinated Island Population: Genomic Epidemiology of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in Haiti
Authors: Mavian Carla N , Tagliamonte Massimiliano S , Bassett Maclean , Alam Meer T , Cash Melanie N , Hitchings Matt , Louis Rigan , Riva Alberto , Zainabadi Kayvan , Deschamps Marie Marcelle , Liautaud Bernard , Rouzier Vanessa , Fitzgerald Daniel W , Pape Jean William , Morris J Glenn , Salemi Marco 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
We monitored severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants in Haiti from 2020 to 2023. Despite Haitian coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) travel restrictions and in the setting of a vaccination rate of 2.7%, the timing and lineage evolution of the Haiti epidemic mirrored what was occurring in the rest of the world. Sources for importation of lineages into Haiti were the United States, the Dominican Republic, Europe, and Brazil, with exportation of lineages to the United States, the Dominican Republic, Europe, and Asia. Viral loads in patients infected by the Delta and Omicron BA.1 variants were correlated along the phylogenies, suggesting that higher viral loads have facilitated strain transmission and evolution.