bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New Reactive Formulations For Polypropylene Foams
Authors: Rainglet Benoit , Verron Lucas , Chalamet Yvan , Bounor‐Legaré Véronique , Delage Karim , Forest Charlène , Cassagnau Philippe 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThis work focuses on reactive extrusion to design polypropylene (PP) chains with long and short branching to obtain non‐linear behavior for the synthesis of low‐density foams (<100 kg m−3) using a batch supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) foaming process. From a maleic anhydride (MA) grafted PP (PP‐g‐MA), the long‐branched chains are performed using [MA]/ [OH] reaction (with Sorbitol alcohol). On the other hand, short branched chains are made from the hydrolysis/condensation of amino‐alkoxysilane (3‐Aminopropyl‐triethoxysilane, APTES) in situ grafted onto PP chains through the ([MA]/NH2] reaction). The results show the need to combine both systems to reach the optimum of the rheological behavior (linear and non‐linear) to obtain a low‐density foam. On the other hand, the foaming behavior of polypropylene/polyamide 6 (PP/PA6) polymer blends at T = 180 °C is also investigated as another way to control the rheology and foamy behavior. At this temperature, T = 180 °C, the PA6 phase behaves as solid dispersed particles in a viscoelastic liquid PP matrix. Finally, this study shows the influence of PA6 concentration on the foaming and foam morphology correlated to a rheological study (shear and extensional) and mechanical compressive properties.
Inverting elastic dislocations using the Weakly‐enforced Slip Method
Authors: van Zwieten Gertjan , van Brummelen E. Harald , Hanssen Ramon F. 
Published: April 2022

AbstractEarthquakes cause lasting changes in static equilibrium, resulting in global deformation fields that can be observed. Consequently, deformation measurements such as those provided by satellite based InSAR monitoring can be used to infer an earthquake's faulting mechanism. This inverse problem requires a numerical forward model that is both accurate and fast, as typical inverse procedures require many evaluations. The Weakly‐enforced Slip Method (WSM) was developed to meet these needs, but it was not before applied in an inverse problem setting. Consequently, it was unknown what affects particular properties of the WSM, notably its inherent continuity, have on the inversion process. Here we show that the WSM can accurately recover slip distributions in a Bayesian‐inference setting, provided that data points in the vicinity of the fault are removed. In a representative scenario, an element size of 1 km was found to be sufficiently fine to generate a posterior probability distribution that is close to the theoretical optimum. For rupturing faults a masking zone of 10 km sufficed to avoid numerical disturbances that would otherwise be induced by the discretization error. These results demonstrate that the WSM is a viable forward method for earthquake inversion problems. While our synthesized scenario is basic for reasons of validation, our results are expected to generalize to the wider gamut of scenarios that finite element methods are able to capture. This has the potential to bring modeling flexibility to a field that is often forced to impose model restrictions in a concession to computability.
Abnormal bone loss in the external auditory canal of two adult humans from the medieval period of Germany—An attempt at differential diagnosis
Authors: Flohr Stefan , Kierdorf Uwe 
Published: April 2022

AbstractAbnormal loss of bone in the external auditory canal (EAC) constitutes an underreported condition in paleopathology. Thus far, all reported cases were diagnosed as the result of an external ear canal cholesteatoma (EACC). Here, we report two cases from the medieval period in Germany that show enlarged EACs with perforations of the anterior and posterior EAC walls. The cases were studied macroscopically, with a digital stereo microscope and by conventional X‐ray and computed tomography (CT)‐imaging techniques. In Case 1, the resorption caused a “ballooning” of the EAC while signs of osteonecrosis were missing. We therefore conclude that keratosis obturans (KO) is the most likely diagnosis. In Case 2, the periantral region adjacent to the perforations of the posterior EAC wall exhibits large resorption cavities and sequestrum‐like structures, indicative of osteonecrosis. In this case, we arrive at the diagnosis EACC. Ear diseases encompass a broad spectrum of conditions, many of them with potentially severe impacts on past people. It is therefore suggested to address ear diseases more frequently in paleopathology. Thus far, only a very limited number of entities of ear diseases have been diagnosed in paleopathological studies, and no case of KO has been reported. The present study thus expands the spectrum of paleo‐otopathological diagnoses.
Disinfectants role in the prevention of spreading the COVID‐19 and other infectious diseases: The need for functional polymers!
Authors: Kunduru Konda Reddy , Kutner Neta , Nassar‐Marjiya Eid , Shaheen‐Mualim Merna , Rizik Luna , Farah Shady 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThe spreading of coronavirus through droplets and aerosols of an infected person is a well‐known mechanism. The main protection methods from this virus are using disinfectants/sanitizers, face masks, keeping social distance, and vaccination. With the rapid mutations of the virus accompanied by its features and contagions changing, new advanced functional materials development is highly needed. The usage of disinfectants/sanitizers in excess generates poisonous effects among the general public. Effective and simultaneously, human‐friendly sanitizers or disinfectants are required to prevent the poisoning and the associated issues. They minimize the toxic effects of the currently available materials by rapid action, high potential, long‐term stability, and excellent biocompatible nature. Here, we summarize the available antiviral materials, their features, and their limitations. We highlight the need to develop an arsenal of advanced functional antiviral polymers with intrinsic bioactive functionalities or released bioactive moieties in a controlled manner for rapid and long‐term actions for current and future anticipated viral outbreaks.
Energy Performance of HMX‐Based Aluminized Explosives Containing Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
Authors: Cao Wei , Ran Jianlong , Wang Haoxu , Guo Wei , Lu Xiaojun , Wang Jun 
Published: April 2022

AbstractInvestigation of the energy performance of HMX‐based aluminized explosives added with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) oxidizer was undertaken and compared with the PTFE‐free aluminized explosive of similar formulation. Firstly, the heat of explosion was measured in a calorimetric bomb, next the underwater explosion was conducted, then the cylinder expansion test was performed, and finally, the detonation reaction zone parameters were determined by the interface particle velocity experiment. Compared with the PTFE‐free aluminized explosive, the addition of PTFE into aluminized explosives increases the heat of explosion significantly from the calorimetric data. The PTFE‐containing aluminized explosive also yields the longer first bubble oscillation time in the underwater explosion than the PTFE‐free and ammonium perchlorate‐containing counterparts. From the cylinder test data, the wall velocity and Gurney energy were determined. The aluminized HMX containing PTFE shows an inferior acceleration ability to PTFE‐free aluminized HMX, but exhibits a stronger afterburning potential. The addition of PTFE to aluminized HMX decreases detonation velocity and CJ pressure and increases the detonation reaction zone time and length. It has reasons to believe that the PTFE partially decomposes in detonation reaction zone. Conclusions on the potential use and suggestion for future research of PTFE as an oxidizer in aluminized explosives are drawn.
Prostate cancer awareness among transgender women after gender‐affirming surgery
Authors: Pitak‐Arnnop Poramate , Messer‐Peti Robert , Tangmanee Chatpong , Neff Andreas , Meningaud Jean‐Paul 
Published: April 2022

AbstractBackgroundThe prostate gland remains unresected during gender‐affirming surgery (GAS) for transgender women (TGW), and may develop malignancies in later life. We sought to evaluate prostate cancer awareness (PCA) among post‐GAS TGW.MethodsThe investigators implemented a cross‐sectional study and enrolled a sample of Thai post‐GAS TGW without medical background. Predictor variables were categorized as demographic, clinical, operative, or postoperative. The outcome variable was PCA (yes/no). Appropriate statistics were computed, and a p‐value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe sample consisted of 100 Thai post‐GAS TGW (4% bisexual, 12% bachelor [or higher] graduates, 51% service workers, 64% had monthly net income <40,000 TB [or ca. 1050 Euro], 92% operated by plastic surgeons) with a mean age of 26.2 ± 5.4 years (range: 18–45). On bivariate analysis, PCA was significantly associated with educational level (p = 0.007; adjusted odd ratio [ORadj.]: 5.85; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.65–20.69), being operated ≥ 10 years (p = 0.01; ORadj.: 0.16; 95% CI: 0.04–0.76), self‐recognition of the remaining prostate gland (p = 0.0001; ORadj.: 0.02; 95% CI: 0–0.12), and emphasis on PCA by the GAS operator (p = 0.01; ORadj.: 0.07; 95% CI: 0.01–0.63). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a statistically significant, positive correlation (r = 0.78; p = 0.0001) among these four predictors, and continued to confirm the positive effect on PCA in TGW with high education and realization of the prostate gland (r = 0.56; p = 0.04) or information on PCA by the operator (r = 0.68; p = 0.003).ConclusionThe GSA operator should intensively inform TGW about the remnant prostate and the risk of PC, especially those with low and middle levels of education attained.
A comprehensive review of zebra chip disease in potato and its management through breeding for resistance/tolerance to ‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ and its insect vector
Authors: Prager Sean M , Cohen Abigail , Cooper W Rodney , Novy Richard , Rashed Arash , Wenninger Erik J , Wallis Christopher 
Published: April 2022

AbstractZebra chip disease (ZC), associated with the plant pathogenic bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ (psyllaurous) (CLso), is a major threat to global potato production. In addition to yield loss, CLso infection causes discoloration in the tubers, rendering them unmarketable. CLso is transmitted by the potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Šulc) (Hemiptera: Triozidae). ZC is managed by prophylactic insecticide applications to control the vector, which is costly and carries environmental and human health risks. Given the expense, difficulty, and unsustainability of managing vector‐borne diseases with insecticides, identifying sources of resistance to CLso and developing varieties that are resistant or tolerant to CLso and/or potato psyllids has become a major goal of breeding efforts. These efforts include field and laboratory evaluations of noncultivated germplasm and cultivars, studies of tubers in cold storage, detailed quantifications of biochemical responses to infection with CLso, possible mechanisms underlying insect resistance, and traditional examination of potato quality following infections. This review provides a brief history of ZC and potato psyllid, a summary of currently available tools to manage ZC, and a comprehensive review of breeding efforts for ZC and potato psyllid management within the greater context of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Water‐resistant conductive organogels with sensation and actuation functions for artificial neuro‐sensory muscular systems
Authors: Zhang Zhixing , Yu Yunfei , Yu Huitao , Feng Yiyu , Feng Wei 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThe development of functional flexible conductive materials can significantly contribute to the improvement of intelligent human–computer integration. However, it is a challenge to endow human–machine interface with perception and response actuation simultaneously. Herein, a customizable and multifunctional electronic conductive organogel is proposed by combining conductive carbon nanotube (CNT) clusters and flexible adhesive organogels. The conductive CNT cluster layers generated on the surface of organogels equip the resulting organogel‐based conductors with considerable quasi‐superhydrophobicity and increase their potential applicability as highly sensitive stress and strain sensors. In particular, this quasi‐superhydrophobicity is insensitive to tensile strain. Based on customizable conductive networks and entropy‐driven organogel actuation, the conductive organogels can sense various strain and stress signals and imitate natural organisms with muscle actuation and neurofeedback. This strategy for preparing electronic conductors can enhance the rational design of soft robotics and artificial intelligence devices, facilitating further progress of human‐like intelligent systems.
ExVivoMicroTest: ExVivo Testing of Microservices
Authors: Gazzola Luca , Goldstein Maayan , Mariani Leonardo , Mobilio Marco , Segall Itai , Tundo Alessandro , Ussi Luca 
Published: April 2022

AbstractMicroservice‐based applications consist of multiple services that can evolve independently. When a service must be updated, it is first tested with in‐house regression test suites. However, the test suites that are executed are usually designed without the exact knowledge about how the services will be accessed and used in the field; therefore, they may easily miss relevant test scenarios, failing to prevent the deployment of faulty services. To address this problem, we introduce ExVivoMicroTest, an approach that analyzes the execution of deployed services at run‐time in the field, in order to generate test cases for future versions of the same services. ExVivoMicroTest implements lightweight monitoring and tracing capabilities, to inexpensively record executions that can be later turned into regression test cases that capture how services are used in the field. To prevent accumulating an excessive number of test cases, ExVivoMicroTest uses a test coverage model that can discriminate the recorded executions between the ones that are worth to be turned into test cases and the ones that should be discarded. The resulting test cases use a mocked environment that fully isolates the service under test from the rest of the system to faithfully reply interactions. We assessed ExVivoMicroTest with the PiggyMetrics and Train Ticket open source microservice applications and studied how different configurations of the monitoring and tracing logic impact on the capability to generate test cases.
Reading Beyond the Book with Primary Sources
Authors: Rodríguez Noreen Naseem , Falkner Anna , Bohl Elizabeth Tetu 
Published: April 2022

AbstractIn a time when some nonfiction historical books for children and young adults have drawn concern and critique for sharing difficult histories, teachers may be looking for ways to contextualize those narratives and provide more support for students as they engage in these histories. Going beyond the book with primary sources can help provide that context, and can create opportunities for critical reflection, historical thinking, and analysis.
Artificial intelligence for climate change adaptation
Authors: Cheong So‐Min , Sankaran Kris , Bastani Hamsa 
Published: April 2022

AbstractAlthough artificial intelligence (AI; inclusive of machine learning) is gaining traction supporting climate change projections and impacts, limited work has used AI to address climate change adaptation. We identify this gap and highlight the value of AI especially in supporting complex adaptation choices and implementation. We illustrate how AI can effectively leverage precise, real‐time information in data‐scarce settings. We focus on supervised learning, transfer learning, reinforcement learning, and multimodal learning to illustrate how innovative AI methods can enable better‐informed choices, tailor adaptation measures to heterogenous groups and generate effective synergies and trade‐offs.This article is categorized under:
Application Areas > Government and Public Sector
Unfolding the Quantification of Quality of Life
Authors: Wulfovich Sharon , Buur Jeppe , Wac Katarzyna 
Published: April 2022

AbstractQuality of life (QoL) refers to an individual’s well-being including their physical and psychological health, social relationships, and environmental domains. Current assessments of QoL are mostly qualitative and infrequent, following a self-reported approach. However, the recent widespread availability of personalized and miniaturized technological innovations, including mobile devices and applications, has enabled the continuous assessment of daily life behaviors that contribute to or result from the individual’s QoL. The continuous assessment of behaviors facilitates an enhanced understanding of an individual’s short-term as well as long-term health and QoL. This chapter outlines the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL, and specifically the WHOQOL-BREF) instrument, which provides a way to categorize the behaviors and aspects of daily life that contribute to an individual’s QoL. As a result, the WHOQOL-BREF presented here serves as the organizational method for this book. Additionally, this chapter presents 71 technology-enabled daily life assessment studies conducted by “quantified-selfers” across the span of the last 6 years, and draws lessons learned by the community. Overall, this chapter illustrates how technology-enabled assessments of an individual’s daily life behaviors and QoL can complement current self-reported QoL assessments. Following this, each chapter within this book elaborates on technology-enabled assessments of a specific dimension of an individual’s QoL.
Your Smartphone Knows you Better than you May Think: Emotional Assessment ‘on the Go’ Via TapSense
Authors: Ghosh Surjya , Löchner Johanna , Mitra Bivas , De Pradipta 
Published: April 2022

AbstractQuality of life (QoL) is a subjective term often determined by various aspects of living, such as personal well-being, health, family, and safety. QoL is challenging to capture objectively but can be anticipated through a person’s emotional state; especially positive emotions indicate an increased QoL and may be a potential indicator for other QoL aspects (such as health, safety). Affective computing is the study of technologies that can quantitatively assess human emotions from external clues. It can leverage different modalities including facial expression, physiological responses, or smartphone usage patterns and correlate them with the person’s life quality assessments. Smartphones are emerging as a main modality, mostly because of their ubiquitous availability and use throughout daily life activities. They include a plethora of onboard sensors (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope, GPS) and can sense different user activities passively (e.g., mobility, app usage history). This chapter presents a research study (here referred to as the TapSense study) that focuses on assessing the individual’s emotional state from the smartphone usage patterns. In this TapSense study, the keyboard interaction of n = 22 participants was unobtrusively monitored for 3 weeks to determine the users’ emotional state (i.e., happy, sad, stressed, relaxed) using a personalized machine learning model. TapSense can assess emotions with an average AUCROC of 78%(±7% std). We summarize the findings and reflect upon these in the context of the potential developments within affective computing at large, in the long term, indicating a person’s quality of life.
The Elusive Quantification of Self-Esteem: Current Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: De Dominicis Stefano , Molinario Erica 
Published: April 2022

AbstractSelf-esteem, a person’s overall evaluation that she is valued and accepted vs. devalued and rejected by others, is crucial for people quality of life. As such, self-esteem has been central in the social-psychological literature since the late eighteenth century. However, its relevance is coupled with lack of agreement on how self-esteem is best conceived and assessed. Here we review definitions and measures of self-esteem in relation to quality of life in order (a) to understand how self-esteem has been defined, operationalized and assessed, and (b) to clarify which facets of self-esteem have been overlooked and need further study. Although we found multiple definitions of self-esteem, which led to a series of measures ranging from single item to multi-dimensional measures of state, trait and contingent self-esteem, the motivational component of self-esteem and its in-context behavioral correlates have yet to be operationalized. What follows, is that whether people think, feel, or behave in particular ways is caused by, concomitant with, or causes self-esteem, is still not understood. Because self-esteem is an emotionally laden system monitoring one’s relational value to others, we suggest that future research could use new technology-based research methods and eventually grasp real-time self-report and behavioral assessment of self-esteem. This appears a promising approach to overcome the limitations of self-esteem’s current theorizations and operationalizations. Thus, a new line of research considering the momentary experience of self-esteem, its behavioral components and its social context, could potentially unveil novel processes and mechanisms linking self-esteem and quality of life that have yet to be discovered and understood.
Beyond Pen and Paper: Reimagining Assessment of Personal Relationships and Quality of Life Using Digital Technologies
Authors: Nakić Matej , Mikloušić Igor 
Published: April 2022

AbstractPersonal interactions are an important element of an individual’s health and life quality in the long term. As the site of many interpersonal interactions has been moved to the digital domain, human society has never been more intertwined. The digital footprints of interpersonal interactions can be quantified and measured via smartphones and wearables, providing more objective, quantitative, and accurate measurements. This chapter focuses on quantifying personal relationships in the context of quality of life, specifically focusing on novel technology-based quantification solutions. It first analyzes traditional qualitative quality of life measures based on subjective self-reporting that include measures of personal relationships, specifically the WHOQOL-BREF, WHOQOL-100, RAND-36, KIDSCREEN-27, SWLS, and Beach Center FQOL, as well as other non-validated measures. The chapter then proposes novel technological solutions for data gathering and analysis by introducing the concept of digital item representation, a process that leverages personal datasets originating from smartphones and wearables. The chapter also discusses issues relating to users’ privacy that influence the acceptance of such everyday technologies as well as the quality of data collected in the long term.