bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Energy‐Density Quinone‐Based Electrodes with [Al(OTF)]2+ Storage Mechanism for Rechargeable Aqueous Aluminum Batteries
Authors: Li Yixin , Liu Luojia , Lu Yong , Shi Ruijuan , Ma Yilin , Yan Zhenhua , Zhang Kai , Chen Jun
Published: April 2021

Rechargeable aqueous aluminum batteries (AABs) are potential candidates for future large‐scale energy storage due to their large capacity and the high abundance of aluminum. However, AABs face the challenges of inferior rate capability and cycling life due to the high charge density of Al3+, which induces the sluggish intercalation/extraction dynamics and structure collapse of inorganic cathode materials during discharge–charge cycles. Here, the optimization of macrocyclic calix[4]quinone (C4Q) with a large cavity and multi‐adjacent carbonyls structure from quinone compounds to become excellent cathode materials for high‐energy‐density AABs is reported. It exhibits a high capacity of 400 mAh g−1, a high rate capability (300 mAh g−1 at 800 mA g−1), and an excellent low‐temperature performance (224 mAh g−1 at −20 °C). The combination of experiments and theoretical calculations proves that Al(OTF)2+ cations coordinate with the carbonyl groups of C4Q during the discharge process, which can reduce desolvation penalty. Moreover, the fabricated pouch‐type Al‐C4Q battery delivers an energy density of 93 Wh kg−1cell, showing great potential for large‐scale applications. This work is expected to facilitate the application of organic cathode for AABs.
Self‐Healing, Robust, and Stretchable Electrode by Direct Printing on Dynamic Polyurea Surface at Slightly Elevated Temperature
Authors: Liu Shuqi , Chen Song , Shi Wei , Peng Zefei , Luo Kaiying , Xing Shuting , Li Jiatian , Liu Zunfeng , Liu Lan
Published: April 2021

Printed electronics on elastomer substrates have found wide applications in wearable devices and soft robotics. For everyday usage, additional requirements exist for the robustness of the printed flexible electrodes, such as the ability to resist scratching and damage. Therefore, highly robust electrodes with self‐healing, and good mechanical strength and stretchability are highly required and challenging. In this paper, a cross‐linking polyurea using polydimethylsiloxane as the soft segment and dynamic urea bonds is prepared and serves as a self‐healing elastomer substrate for coating and printing of silver nanowires (AgNWs). Due to the dynamic exchangeable urea bond at 60 °C, the elastomer exhibits dynamic exchange of the cross‐linking network while retaining the macroscopic shape. As a result, the AgNWs are partially embedded in the surface of the elastomer substrate when coated or printed at 60 °C, forming strong interfacial adhesion. As a result, the obtained stretchable electrode exhibits high mechanical strength and stretchability, the ability to resist scratching and sonication, and self‐healing. This strategy can be applied to a variety of different conducting electrode materials including AgNWs, silver particles, and liquid metal, which provides a new way to prepare robust and self‐healing printed electronics.
Chemodivergent Photocatalytic Synthesis of Dihydrofurans and β,γ‐Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Quintavalla Arianna , Veronesi Ruben , Carboni Davide , Martinelli Ada , Zaccheroni Nelsi , Mummolo Liviana , Lombardo Marco
Published: April 2021

A synthetic procedure, catalysed by Ir(ppy)3 under visible‐light irradiation, for the chemodivergent synthesis of 2,3‐dihydrofurans (3) or β,γ‐unsaturated ketones (7) starting from α‐halo ketones (1) and alkenes (2) has been developed. The mild reaction conditions and the redox‐neutral nature of the process make it particularly sustainable avoiding the use of both sacrificial reactants and stoichiometric strong oxidants. Careful experimental investigations, supported by DFT calculations, allowed to disclose in details a possible mechanistic pathway and to direct the synthesis chemodivergently either toward 3 or 7, depending not only on the nature of the substrates, but also on the choice of the experimental conditions.

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Electrochemical Generation of N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes for Use in Synthesis and Catalysis
Authors: Schotten Christiane , Bourne Richard A. , Kapur Nikil , Nguyen Bao N. , Willans Charlotte E.
Published: April 2021

The electrochemical generation of N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) offers a mild and selective alternative to traditional synthetic methods that usually rely on strong bases and air‐sensitive materials. The use of electrons as reagents results in an efficient and clean synthesis that enables the direct use of NHCs in various applications. Herein, the use of electrogenerated NHCs in organocatalysis, synthesis and organometallic chemistry is explored.

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Averting co‐extinction: Successful mussel translocation rescues an endangered population of the European bitterling, Rhodeus amarus
Authors: Kamocki Andrzej , Urbańska Maria , Biereżnoj‐Bazille Urszula , Ożgo Małgorzata
Published: April 2021

Local extinctions break species interactions and have cascading effects throughout ecosystems; parasites are often severely affected. The European bitterling, Rhodeus amarus, is a cyprinid fish that parasitizes unionid mussels by laying eggs into the mussel gill cavity, where embryos develop and emerge as active juveniles; this relationship is obligatory for the bitterling.

This article describes a field experiment aimed at averting the secondary extinction of the European bitterling after a complete die‐off of a freshwater mussel community, as a result of habitat destruction.

Approximately 5,000 unionid mussels were reintroduced within the short time frame in which the remnant bitterling population was still present at the site. Mussel survival was high, and bitterling resumed reproduction, with vigorous courtship observed within 24 hours of mussel release. Recruitment was successful, as evidenced by increased occupancy, densities, and relative frequencies in the fish assemblage. The frequency of sub‐adults and young‐of‐the‐year changed from 0% before mussel reintroduction to 80% a year later, and 50% 2 years later, when young‐of‐the‐year contributed to about half of the young fish. No bitterling were observed at two control sites where mussels were not reintroduced.

This study exemplifies how the timely restitution of affiliate species can avert co‐extinction. It also shows how the conservation of the bitterling within its historical distribution range can serve mussel conservation, including species that although not legally protected, are important keystone species and ecosystem engineers, shaping the structure and function of a broad range of freshwater habitats.
Evaluation of antityrosinase activity and mechanism, antioxidation, and UV filter properties of theaflavin
Authors: Chen Jianmin , Ran Mengnan , Wang Meixia , Liu Xinying , Liu Siwan , Ruan Zhipeng , Jin Nan
Published: April 2021

Tyrosinase is a key metalloenzyme for the biosynthesis of melanin that plays a critical role in the prevention of skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, the overproduction of melanin may cause a variety of skin diseases. Due to the toxicity and inefficiency of existing tyrosinase inhibitors, it is urgent to identify safe and potent alternatives from natural sources. Theaflavin, a single‐component extracted from black tea, has been found to possess a variety of pharmacological activities. Herein, the inhibition kinetics of theaflavin on tyrosinase and inhibitory mechanism were determined using spectroscopy, molecular docking, and zebrafish model. The results showed that theaflavin inhibited the diphenolase activity of tyrosinase in a reversible mixed type manner with IC50 of 229.75 μmol/L and hindered the synthesis of melanin in zebrafish. This may be due to the formation of eight hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic effects between theaflavin and tyrosinase according to the results of molecular docking. To study the possible effects on the prevention of free radical‐mediated skin cancer and photoaging caused by UV radiation, the antioxidation and UV filter properties of theaflavin were further verified. This study demonstrates that theaflavin is a potential multifunctional compound that can be used in cosmetic and medicinal products.
A dual‐channel ‘turn‐on’ fluorescent chemosensor for high selectivity and sensitivity detection of CN¯ based on a coumarin‐Schiff base derivative in an aqueous system
Authors: Ding Wen‐Min , Wu Ya , Zhang Shu‐Zhen , Li Jing , Xu Li , Sun Yin‐Xia
Published: April 2021

Novel strategies still need to be proposed that can be used to identify and detect toxic environmental pollutants. In this paper, two channels of colorimetry and fluorescence ‘turn‐on’ fluorescent probe 1 (7‐hydroxy‐8‐[(2‐hydroxy‐phenylimino)‐ methyl]‐4‐methylbenzopyran‐2‐one) for the simple yet highly selective detection of CN¯ have been successfully designed and synthesized. Crystal features of probe 1 were defined using X‐ray single crystal diffractometry. Probe 1 showed a strongly colorimetric and fluorescence response to CN¯ that induced obvious naked‐eye colour changes in aqueous solution (DMSO/H2O, 3:1 v:v). In addition, probe 1 for CN¯ detection displayed low detection limits of 3.91 × 10−8 M, which were significantly lower than the 1.9 × 10−6 M maximum level specified by the World Health Organization (WHO) for potable water. The sensing mechanism for probe 1 was attributed to the deprotonation process as shown by 1H NMR titration. Moreover, based on the visible colorimetry and fluorescence change for probe 1 to CN¯, measurement was performed for simulated water samples containing CN¯. This study provides a broad prospect for solving other pollution problems and promoting the design of new fluorescent materials.
Fears of compassion magnify the harmful effects of threat of COVID‐19 on mental health and social safeness across 21 countries
Authors: Matos Marcela , McEwan Kirsten , Kanovský Martin , Halamová Júlia , Steindl Stanley R. , Ferreira Nuno , Linharelhos Mariana , Rijo Daniel , Asano Kenichi , Gregório Sónia , Márquez Margarita G. , Vilas Sara P. , Brito‐Pons Gonzalo , Lucena‐Santos Paola , da Silva Oliveira Margareth , de Souza Erika Leonardo , Llobenes Lorena , Gumiy Natali , Costa Maria Ileana , Habib Noor , Hakem Reham , Khrad Hussain , Alzahrani Ahmad , Cheli Simone , Petrocchi Nicola , Tholouli Elli , Issari Philia , Simos Gregoris , Lunding‐Gregersen Vibeke , Elklit Ask , Kolts Russell , Kelly Allison C. , Bortolon Catherine , Delamillieure Pascal , Paucsik Marine , Wahl Julia E. , Zieba Mariusz , Zatorski Mateusz , Komendziński Tomasz , Zhang Shuge , Basran Jaskaran , Kagialis Antonios , Kirby James , Gilbert Paul
Published: April 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic is a massive global health crisis with damaging consequences to mental health and social relationships. Exploring factors that may heighten or buffer the risk of mental health problems in this context is thus critical. Whilst compassion may be a protective factor, in contrast fears of compassion increase vulnerability to psychosocial distress and may amplify the impact of the pandemic on mental health. This study explores the magnifying effects of fears of compassion on the impact of perceived threat of COVID‐19 on depression, anxiety and stress, and social safeness.

Methods

Adult participants from the general population (N = 4057) were recruited across 21 countries worldwide, and completed self‐report measures of perceived threat of COVID‐19, fears of compassion (for self, from others, for others), depression, anxiety, stress and social safeness.

Results

Perceived threat of COVID‐19 predicted increased depression, anxiety and stress. The three flows of fears of compassion predicted higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress and lower social safeness. All fears of compassion moderated (heightened) the impact of perceived threat of COVID‐19 on psychological distress. Only fears of compassion from others moderated the effects of likelihood of contracting COVID‐19 on social safeness. These effects were consistent across all countries.

Conclusions

Fears of compassion have a universal magnifying effect on the damaging impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on mental health and social safeness. Compassion focused interventions and communications could be implemented to reduce resistances to compassion and promote mental wellbeing during and following the pandemic.
Synthesis, Stability, and Diels‐Alder Reactions of Methyl 2‐Oxobut‐3‐enoate
Authors: Jessen Bo M. , Taarning Esben , Madsen Robert
Published: April 2021

Methyl vinyl glycolate (MVG, methyl 2‐hydroxybut‐3‐enoate) is a new biobased platform chemical, which is available by degradation of carbohydrates. In the present work, the oxidation of MVG to methyl 2‐oxobut‐3‐enoate has been investigated and a procedure developed with the Dess‐Martin periodinane. Methyl 2‐oxobut‐3‐enoate has not been characterized before and is stable for days at −18 °C, but slowly dimerizes by an unusual hetero‐Diels‐Alder reaction at room temperature. Therefore, the reactivity of methyl 2‐oxobut‐3‐enoate in the normal Diels‐Alder reaction with 1,3‐dienes has been investigated and a one‐pot procedure developed where MVG is first oxidized with the Dess‐Martin periodinane followed by the addition of the 1,3‐diene. A number of different 1,3‐dienes can take part in the cycloaddition to afford the functionalized cyclohexene products in moderate‐to‐good yields.
Study on a new cascade utilize method for ship waste heat based on TEG‐ORC combined cycle
Authors: Liu Changxin , Liu Jianhao , Ye Wenxiang , Li Huaan , Zhao Cong , Wang Huibin , Xu Minyi , Pan Xinxiang
Published: April 2021

In order to achieve the efficient cascade utilization of various ship's waste heat, improve the energy efficiency of ships and meet the strict requirements of the new international carbon emission regulations, this article proposes a of TEG‐ORC (thermoelectric power generation/organic Rankine cycle) combined cycle, and designs the experimental system. Coupling characteristics of each bottom cycle are taken as the entry point in the combined cycle, using the method of system simulation, the influence of TEG/ORC bottom cycle ratio, evaporation pressure and flow rate of ORC working fluid flow on the key performance of system output power, system thermal efficiency, and waste heat utilization rate of main engine flue gas are studied. The results show that TEG‐ORC combined cycle can overcome the limitations of TEG or ORC, maximize the recovery amount of waste heat, improve the stability and safety of ORC bottom cycle, simulation results show that when the bottom cycle ratio (QTEG/QORC) is 0.52, the maximum output power and maximum thermal efficiency of the experimental system are 2933.7w and 24.68%, respectively. In this condition, the scale of TEG bottom cycle is 41 pieces, the ORC working fluid flow rate is 0.046 kg/s, and the ORC working medium evaporation pressure is 3 MPa.
Conversion of Karanja oil to biodiesel using modified heterogeneous base catalyst
Authors: Bojaraj Divya , Sai Bharadwaj Aryasomayajula Venkata Satya Lakshmi , Khadhar Mohamed Meera Sheriffa Begum , Narayanan Anantharaman
Published: April 2021

In the recent times, biodiesel production from various non‐edible oil sources has received a lot of attention. Karanja oil is chosen mainly due to its availability and low cost. It is a nitrogen fixing tree cultivated to enhance soil quality. Transesterification of Karanja oil to biodiesel using a basic solid modified heterogeneous catalyst has been discussed in the present study. Aluminum nitrate Al(NO3)3 impregnated on calcined marble (Al(NO3)3/calcined marble), prepared by wet impregnation method (25%), is used as a modified heterogeneous base catalyst. Surface morphology of the synthesized catalyst is determined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyzer and the composition of various elements present in the prepared catalyst is analyzed using energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS analyzer). 67.56 (wt/wt) of calcium oxide (CaO) is observed for calcined marble and 78.19 (wt/wt %) of CaO has been noticed for impregnated catalyst (Al(NO3)3/calcined marble). A maximum biodiesel yield of 96.5% and a conversion of 97.43% was obtained at an optimum methanol:oil molar ratio of 9:1 (mol/mol), 4 (wt %) of catalyst concentration and 1.5 (h) reaction time respectively. The entire composition of formed biodiesel is determined using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyzer and conversion of Karanja oil to biodiesel is measured using 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyzer.
Obsessive–compulsive symptoms in female patients with an eating disorder with or without impulsive non‐suicidal self‐injury
Authors: Claes Laurence , Buelens Tinne , Depestele Lies , Dierckx Eva , Schoevaerts Katrien , Luyckx Koen
Published: April 2021

Background and Aims

In the present study, we investigated differences in obsessive–compulsive (OC) symptoms in patients with an eating disorder (ED) with or without recent/lifetime impulsive non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI). We included 429 female inpatients with an ED, of whom 31.9% engaged in recent impulsive NSSI and 56.4% in lifetime impulsive NSSI.

Materials

They filled out the Eating Disorder Evaluation Scale, the Self‐Injury Questionnaire‐Treatment Related and the Padua Inventory‐Revised (OC symptoms).

Methods and Results

Patients with anorexia nervosa, binge‐eating/purging type (AN‐BP) and bulimia nervosa (BN) engaged more frequently in recent/lifetime impulsive NSSI compared to patients with anorexia nervosa, restrictive‐type (AN‐R). Two MANCOVAs with OC symptoms as dependent variables, and ED subtypes and recent/lifetime impulsive NSSI as independent variables controlling for age and body mass index showed the main effects of ED subtypes and recent/lifetime impulsive NSSI. Patients with AN‐BP reported significantly more impulses (i.e., being afraid of losing control over motor behaviours) compared to patients with AN‐R and BN. ED patients with impulsive recent/lifetime NSSI scored significantly higher on all OC scales compared to patients without NSSI.

Discussion and Conclusion

In sum, the presence of recent/lifetime impulsive NSSI in patients with an ED seems to be related to more severe OC symptoms. Hence, this comorbidity needs to be addressed in psychotherapy, such as in transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural therapy for EDs.
Impacts to Larval Fathead Minnows Vary between Preconsumer and Environmental Microplastics
Authors: Bucci Kennedy , Bikker Jacqueline , Stevack Kathleen , Watson-Leung Trudy , Rochman Chelsea
Published: April 2021

Microplastics are a complex suite of contaminants varying in size, shape, polymer, and associated chemicals and are sometimes referred to as a “multiple stressor.” Still, the majority of studies testing hypotheses about their effects use commercially bought microplastics of a uniform size, shape, and type. We investigated the effects of polyethylene and polypropylene microplastics purchased as preproduction pellets (referred to as “preconsumer”) and a mixture of polyethylene and polypropylene collected from the environment (environmental microplastic). Embryo-stage fathead minnows were exposed to either the physical plastic particles and their leachates or the chemical leachates alone at an environmentally relevant (280 particles/L) or high (2800 particles/L) concentration for 14 d. The effects of microplastics differed by polymer type and presence of environmental contaminants, and effects can be driven by the physical particles and/or the chemical leachates alone. Larvae exposed to preconsumer polyethylene experienced a decrease in survival, length, and weight, whereas preconsumer polypropylene caused an increase in weight. Environmental microplastics caused a more drastic increase in length and weight and almost 6 times more deformities as the preconsumer microplastics. Although preconsumer microplastics caused effects only when organisms were exposed to both the particles and the chemical leachates, the environmental microplastics caused effects when organisms were exposed to the chemical leachates alone, suggesting that the mechanism of effects are context-dependent. The present study provides further support for treating microplastics as a multiple stressor and suggests that testing for effects with pristine microplastics may underestimate the true effects of microplastics in the environment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:858–868. © 2021 SETAC

Abstract

Fathead minnow larvae were exposed to preconsumer polyethylene (PE), preconsumer polypropylene (PP), and a mixture of polyethylene and polypropylene collected from the environment. Our results indicate that the effects of microplastics are driven by both polymer type and presence of environmental contaminants.
Content Hungry: How the Nutrition of Food Media Influences Social Media Engagement
Authors: Pancer Ethan , Philp Matthew , Poole Maxwell , Noseworthy Theodore J.
Published: April 2021

What motivates people to consume and engage with food media on social networks? We adopt an evolutionary lens to suggest that the valence of people’s affective state varies by the implied caloric density of food media, which has a direct impact on social media engagement. First, we analyze a catalog of Buzzfeed’s Tasty videos based on nutritional content derived from the dish’s ingredients and find that visualizing caloric density (i.e., calories per serving) positively influences likes, comments, and shares on Facebook. We then replicate this phenomenon in an experiment, providing preliminary evidence for the role of affect as an explanatory mechanism. We conclude by isolating the role of affect with a classic misattribution task, which attenuates the elevated engagement resulting from exposure to calorie‐dense food media. These findings contribute to the dialogue on the antecedents of social media engagement and offer implications for content developers, advertisers, consumer health advocates, and policymakers.
On‐tissue chemical derivatization reagents for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Merdas Mira , Lagarrigue Mélanie , Vanbellingen Quentin , Umbdenstock Thierry , Da Violante Georges , Pineau Charles
Published: April 2021

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI MSI) is a key tool for the analysis of biological tissues. It provides spatial and quantitative information about different types of analytes within tissue sections. Despite the increasing improvements of this technique, the low detection sensitivity of some compounds remains an important challenge to overcome. Poor sensitivity is related to weak ionization efficiency, low abundance of analytes and matrix ions, or endogenous interferences. On‐tissue chemical derivatization (OTCD) has proven to be an important solution to these issues and is increasingly employed in MALDI MSI studies. OTCD reagents, synthesized or commercially available, have been essentially used for the detection of small exogenous or endogenous molecules within tissues. Optimally, an OTCD reaction is performed in mild conditions, in an acceptable range of time, preserves the integrity of the tissues, and prevents the delocalization. In addition to their reactivity with a targeted chemical function, some OTCD reagents can also be used as a matrix, which simplifies the sample preparation procedure. In this review, we present an exhaustive overview of OTCD reagents and methods used in MALDI MSI studies.
Management zone delineation based on soil properties measured during the reproductive stage of rice in the field
Authors: Wang Mingming , Tavakkoli Ehsan , Rengasamy Pichu , Huang Lihua , Ma Hongyuan , Yang Fu , Wei Tianjiao , Lu Xinrui , Xu Zhongchun , Fang Yunying , Liang Zhengwei
Published: April 2021

Identification of key soil properties is an essential prerequisite to delineating the management zone (MZ), which is traditionally done by selecting soil parameters before crop planting. However, soil properties during sensitive stages of crop growth may have a greater effect on the MZ delineation than those before planting. This study is aimed to determine whether inclusion of soil properties measured in surface layers during the reproductive stage of rice could enhance the appropriateness of MZ delineation based on sodic/saline‐sodic paddy fields. When including soil variables during the reproductive stage, with/without soil variables before planting, a similar MZ pattern (MZ pattern 3) was generated. Furthermore, when including soil variables during the reproductive stage and rice yield components, with/without soil variables before planting, another similar MZ pattern (MZ Pattern 4) was generated. Compared with other patterns, the MZ pattern 4 showed higher relative variances for rice yield and the mean of its most important yield‐influencing factors, with lower coefficient of variation (CV) in all MZs compared with the whole‐paddock CV. Likewise, this pattern showed improvement in discriminating soil and rice variables among MZs. These findings confirm that inclusion of soil properties during the reproductive stage of rice has potential for enhancing the appropriateness of MZ delineation. This study also necessitates inclusion of carbonate‐derived variables when delineating MZs in sodic/saline‐sodic paddy fields. Our results encourage further investigation of the role of soil properties in surface soil layers at critical crop growth stages in MZ delineation under multiple soil and climatic conditions.
Self‐efficacy and callousness in consumer judgments of AI‐enabled checkouts
Authors: van Esch Patrick , Cui Yuanyuan (Gina) , Jain Shailendra P.
Published: April 2021

In a retail setting, two field studies and one controlled online experiment show that compared to self‐service checkouts, artificial intelligence (AI)‐enabled checkouts temporarily activate perceived shopping convenience. This leads to more favourable attitudes and higher purchase intent, but only for consumers who have higher levels of self‐efficacy (Studies 1 and 2). Furthermore, we find that this positive effect of AI‐enabled checkouts conditional on consumers' self‐efficacy, is diminished for consumers who show a low level of callousness (Study 3). This study introduces a novel variable to consumer literature, callousness, a subconstruct of psychopathy and features the unexplored tripartite “AI–physical–human” ecosystem, which adds a significant layer to the incipient AI literature and serves as a theeoretical framework for continued inquiries.
Design and evaluation of 3D printable patient‐specific applicators for gynecologic HDR brachytherapy
Authors: Semeniuk Oleksii , Cherpak Amanda , Robar James
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to improve dose distribution and organ‐at‐risk sparing during gynecologic HDR brachytherapy with patient‐specific applicators. The majority of applicators used today are generic in design and do not allow for dose modulation for patient‐specific shaping of dose distributions. Their performance might be adjusted with commercially available wedge shields; however, this provides dose modulation in the orthogonal plane only and does not allow for variation along the length of the applicator. Generic applicators are available only in standard sizes and geometries, and provide suboptimal patient fit with limited dose modulation.

Methods

In this paper we use Monte Carlo modeling for comprehensive characterization of radiologic properties of various 3D printable biocompatible and sterilizable materials with comparison to water. Based on these results, we choose the optimal set of materials for a patient‐specific applicator. We develop a novel method to design the patient‐specific applicator without incurring a significant increase in treatment time or changes to clinical workflow. Finally, using an example of two selected vaginal cancers, we compare the performance of patient‐specific and water‐equivalent applicators in terms of target coverage and rectum sparing.

Results

In the energy range from 1 MeV to 4 MeV, all materials have similar attenuation coefficients. In the range from ~2 keV to 1 MeV and above 4 MeV, tungsten‐polylactic acid composite (WPLA) was seen to have the highest attenuation coefficient. The dose distribution of the water‐equivalent applicator was found to be symmetric about its central axis. At the same time patient‐specific shielded applicators exhibit well‐modulated dose distributions. Their isodose lines are seen to spread radially into the patient, while merging close to the applicator surface, where WPLA shielding has been applied.

Conclusions

The patient‐specific cylinders provide comparable dose to the target, while offering advanced healthy tissue sparing, not achievable with the generic design.
A matter of size? Health‐related quality of life after radical prostatectomy for patients with giant prostates
Authors: Westhofen Thilo , Buchner Alexander , Schlenker Boris , Becker Armin , Chaloupka Michael , Bischoff Robert , Stief Christian G. , Kretschmer Alexander
Published: April 2021

Background

Evidence regarding the impact of giant prostate volume (PV) on outcome after radical prostatectomy (RP) is controversial with a lack of evidence on the impact of PV on health‐related quality of life (HRQOL). We aimed to assess the impact of giant PV on HRQOL and functional outcomes for men with prostate cancer (PC) undergoing RP.

Methods

Giant PV was defined based on the 95th percentile of PV measured by specimen weight of 3929 patients that underwent RP between 2013 and 2018 in a large tertiary care center. A propensity score‐matched analysis of 929 men treated with RP for PC (n = 184 with PV ≥ 100 cm3, n = 745 with PV < 100 cm3) was conducted. Primary endpoint was the impact of giant PV on HRQOL (based on EORTC QLQ‐C30) assessed with binary logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard model. Secondary endpoint was the impact of PV on oncological‐ and functional outcome.

Results

Median follow‐up was 24 months. Median PV, measured by specimen‐weight, was 58 cm3. We found no significant differences in median general HRQOL (p = .183), giant PV was not associated with better HRQOL (odds ratio [OR], 1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96–2.47; p = .075). No significant differences were found regarding continence recovery (hazard ratio [HR], 0.956; 95% CI, 0.771–1.185; p = .682), median International Consultation of Incontinence Questionnaire–Short‐Form (ICIQ‐SF) scores (p = .062) or potency rates (p = .151). Giant PV did not significantly impair biochemical recurrence‐free survival (HR, 0.968; 95% CI, 0.651–1.439; p = .871).

Conclusions

For patients undergoing RP, giant PV was not associated with adverse HRQOL outcomes. We found no significant impact of PV on continence rates, potency rates, and biochemical recurrence‐free survival. Hence, RP is an efficient cancer treatment for men even with giant PV.
Effect of Portulaca Oleracea (purslane) extract on liver enzymes, lipid profile, and glycemic status in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Darvish Damavandi Reyhaneh , Shidfar Farzad , Najafi Mohammad , Janani Leila , Masoodi Mohsen , Akbari‐Fakhrabadi Maryam , Dehnad Afsaneh
Published: April 2021

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is the richest green leafy vegetable source of omega‐3, especially alpha linolenic acid (ALA). Experimental studies have shown beneficial effects of purslane extract on liver enzymes. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of purslane hydroalcohoic extract in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In a randomized double‐blinded clinical trial, 74 patients were randomly assigned to receive either 300 mg purslane extract or placebo capsules for 12 weeks. Compared with baseline, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (−9 [−17, 0.50] mg/dl; p = .007), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (−4 [−10, −0.50] mg/dl; p = .001), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) (−6.21 ± 9.85 mg/dL; p < .001), fasting blood glucose (FBG) (−8 [−11, −1.50] mg/dl; p < .001) insulin resistance (−0.95 ± 2.23; p = .020), triglyceride (−20 [−67.50, 3.50] mg/dl; p = .010), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) (−5 [−12, −1] mg/dl; p < .001) decreased significantly in the purslane group. At the end of study, no significant changes were observed in liver steatosis grade, insulin, liver enzymes, total bilirubin, lipid profile, and blood pressure between the two groups. The findings of our study show that purslane extract at the dose of 300 mg/day for 12 weeks has no significant effects on liver enzymes, lipid profile, and glycemic indices in patients with NAFLD.
How Chinese–English Bilingual Fourth Graders Draw on Syntactic Awareness in Reading Comprehension: Within‐ and Cross‐Language Effects
Authors: Tong Xiuhong , Kwan Joyce Lok Yin , Xiuli Tong Shelley , Deacon S. Hélène
Published: April 2021

Syntax, or sentence structure, plays a role in reading comprehension, but how students draw on their awareness of syntax in their reading remains unclear; the mechanism is even more ambiguous in bilingual students. In this study, we evaluated the direct and indirect contributions of syntactic awareness on first‐language Chinese and second‐language English reading comprehension among 227 Hong Kong Chinese–English bilingual fourth graders. We designed language‐shared and language‐unique tasks of syntactic awareness, assessed reading comprehension in both Chinese and English, and took other reading‐related cognitive and metalinguistic measures. We found a statistically significant direct effect of syntactic awareness on reading comprehension within both first‐language Chinese and second‐language English, along with indirect effects via word reading. Moreover, in their reading comprehension within both English and Chinese, students drew on awareness of syntactic features that are shared between English and Chinese more than those unique to either language. Students were also generally more accurate with language‐shared than language‐unique items, further pointing to the possibility of transfer. Our findings clarify dual roles for syntactic awareness in reading comprehension in Chinese and English, as well as transfer of awareness of syntactic structures in the two typologically distinct languages. We discuss these results in relation to theories of both reading comprehension and transfer.
Where Is the Evidence? Looking Back to Jeanne Chall and Enduring Debates About the Science of Reading
Authors: Semingson Peggy , Kerns William
Published: April 2021

In this historical analysis, we examine the context of debates over the role of phonics in literacy and current debates about the science of reading, with a focus on the work and impact of the late literacy scholar Jeanne Chall. We open by briefly tracing the roots of the enduring debates from the 19th and 20th centuries, focusing on beginning reading, decoding, and phonics. Next, we explore insights drawn from the whole language movement as understood by Kenneth Goodman and Yetta Goodman, as well as a synthesis of key ideas from Chall’s critique of the whole language approach. We then analyze the shifts across the three editions of Chall’sLearning to Read: The Great Debateand summarize major ideas from her body of work, such as the stage model of reading development. We suggest that reading instruction should be informed by a broader historical lens in looking at the “science of reading” debates and should draw on a developmental stage model to teaching reading, such as the six‐stage model provided by Chall. We describe implications for educators, textbook publishers, researchers, and policymakers that address the current reading debates, and provide considerations of what Chall might say about learning to read in a digital era given the pressures on teacher educators and teachers to align their practice with what is deemed to be the science of reading.
A Colorimetric Test to Differentiate Patients Infected with Influenza from COVID‐19
Authors: Kozlowski Hannah N. , Abdou Mohamed Mohamed A. , Kim Jisung , Bell Natalie G. , Zagorovsky Kyryl , Mubareka Samira , Chan Warren C. W.
Published: April 2021

Patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza display similar symptoms, but treatment requirements are different. Clinicians need to accurately distinguish SARS‐CoV‐2 from influenza to provide appropriate treatment. Here, the authors develope a color‐based technique to differentiate between patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza A using a nucleic acid enzyme‐gold nanoparticle (GNP) molecular test requiring minimal equipment. The MNAzyme and GNP probes are designed to be robust to viral mutations. Conserved regions of the viral genomes are targeted, and two MNAzymes are created for each virus. The ability of the system to distinguish between SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza A using 79 patient samples is tested. When detecting SARS‐CoV‐2 positive patients, the clinical sensitivity is 90%, and the specificity is 100%. When detecting influenza A, the clinical sensitivity and specificity are 93% and 100%, respectively. The high clinical performance of the MNAzyme‐GNP assay shows that it can be used to help clinicians choose effective treatments.
Active Citizenship, Lifelong Learning and Inclusion: Introduction to Concepts and Contexts
Authors: Kersh Natasha , Toiviainen Hanna , Zarifis George K. , Pitkänen Pirkko
Published: April 2021

This chapter provides insight into the rationale, background and key concepts of the book and will discuss relevant theoretical considerations, contexts and discourses. The complexity surrounding the conceptual understanding of active citizenship, adult education and vulnerability will be considered, and approaches towards achieving a shared understanding of the nature of adult education and lifelong learning will be addressed within this chapter. In this book, the concept of active citizenship is used as a conceptual lens to understand the role of adult education in including young adults in active social, political and economic participation and engagement. The findings indicate that the social, economic and political dimensions of active citizenship, encompassing the development of social competences, labour market skills as well as civic and political participation, have been related to various educational initiatives (programmes) to engage young adults in active participation. The chapter will open the discussion of the cross-national complexity and interdependencies between adult education, social inclusion and active participatory citizenship, which underpin the dialogue offered in the seven contributions within this book.
Active Citizenship Programmes for Unemployed Young Adults with Low Skills in Southern Europe: Participation, Outreach, and Barriers
Authors: Zarifis George K.
Published: April 2021

The development of policies and targeted initiatives that promote or support active participatory citizenship for vulnerable young adults with low skills has largely passed unnoticed in Southern Europe in the last decade. Despite the existing lifelong learning (LLL) strategies, most countries in the area do not place active citizenship for low-skilled young adults as a priority. This chapter is based on the results of the European research project EduMAP (Horizon 2020), and focuses on participation of unemployed young adults with low skills (hence early school-leavers) in educational activities that either focus or promote active citizenship in Southern Europe (Greece, Cyprus, Malta, Italy, Spain and Portugal). More specifically the chapter explains the reasons behind low participation rates among vulnerable young adults in the region. South European countries are not yet showing any favourable conditions for increasing participation of the low-skilled unemployed young adults in such programmes. Some of the countries that were hit by economic depression in particular, face –not necessarily for the same reasons– major barriers for implementing policies to increase the number of low-skilled young adults in active citizenship oriented courses. The chapter concludes that one of the problems in promoting active citizenship through adult education activities is that the programmes delivered in the region are still not competence-based. Adult education is not high in the value system, and therefore low skilled young adults do not appear motivated to obtain such skills and competences. A key challenge therefore is to deliver a service that simultaneously meets the needs of the learners, provides sufficient responses to the needs of the local societies, and stimulates further demand.
Active Participatory Citizenship for and with Young Adults in Situations of Risk – On the Cover and Under-Cover
Authors: Endrizzi Francesca , Schmidt-Behlau Beate
Published: April 2021

Drawing on theoretical research findings of the EduMAP extensive study on national Adult Education (AE) policies in the European Union (EU) and as part of a broader qualitative data collection based on 40 case-studies, the following chapter investigates four selected adult education practices dealing with young people in situations of vulnerability, in France, Austria and Germany, respectively. The intent is to analyse how diverse conceptualisation of Active Participatory Citizenship (APC) and the educational strategies adopted in the different programmes impact on the learning outcomes of the interviewed learners. APC can be either explicit and on the cover, as a core objective pursued through an adopted education strategy, or it acts more implicitly and under cover. To prove this assumption, the findings have been systematised, first scrutinizing the endorsed APC concepts and the implemented educational approaches in the programme’s designs and from the providers and practitioners’ perspectives, and second investigating learners’ points of view on their learning outcomes in terms of competence development and reflected experiences. The third step analyses the factors that are relevant for successfully enabling young people in situations of risk to participate in the society and/or community. The findings bear out that how APC is defined and characterised in the AE programmes is not the only impacting factor but equally important is how this is incorporated in the educational practice and adopted in the pedagogical strategy.
How Are the Prospects for Refugees to Become Active Members of Society? – The Vision and Practices in Turkish Adult Education
Authors: Erdoğan Armağan , Unutulmaz K. Onur , Aydemir Suna G. , Erdoğan M. Murat
Published: April 2021

Social integration of refugees is a major challenge for any country that hosts sizable refugee communities. Recently, Turkey has joined the ranks of such countries as it was transformed to become the country with the highest number of refugees in the world through an inflow of over 3.6 million mostly young and uneducated asylum-seekers from Syria in a matter of a few years. This chapter presents a critical analysis of the Turkish adult education (AE) sector by applying the concept of active participatory citizenship in the context of the current refugee crisis with a focus on its role in helping this vulnerable community to become active members of the society. This chapter argues that AE and Lifelong Learning (LLL) programs have the potential to empower Syrian refugees in such a way to make them into active members, contributing social, economic and cultural ways in Turkish society. To make its arguments, the chapter firstly provides a brief analysis of Turkey’s reform agenda in the field of AE since 1990s. By drawing on selected statistics it highlights the shortcomings in Turkey with respect to developing sustainable and gender sensitive AE programs, especially for young adults. Secondly, it investigates the major legal and institutional developments in Turkey since the first wave of the refugees entering to Turkey after beginning of the Syrian Civil War in 2011. Lastly, it will provide an analysis of how new AE programs for refugees are designed, which are characterised by a holistic view of social inclusion and target specific groups of refugees under the pressure of multiple vulnerabilities.
Adult Education as a Means to Social Inclusion in Nordic Welfare States: Denmark, Finland and Sweden
Authors: Kuusipalo Paula , Toiviainen Hanna , Pitkänen Pirkko
Published: April 2021

Denmark, Sweden and Finland are Nordic welfare states that historically have put a high value on both basic and adult education. Citizens should have equal opportunities to participate in education and society. Adult education has been a topical means to include citizens in active societal participation. This has been realised by providing special support for those in need. Currently, the dominance of neo-liberal market economies has challenged this educational ideology, and adult education has increasingly become reduced to only one of its functions, that of employability. Besides formal education, even informal learning has been harnessed for developing and maintaining work-related skills. Budget cuts have affected adult education while resources have increased on guidance and counselling, transition from basic to upper secondary education, education for the low-skilled and continuing training for workforce. Drawing on the history and present challenges this chapter discusses the possibilities to strengthen social inclusion through adult education. In the focus are groups that are at risk of staying outside the education society. The consequences of unfinished basic education and recently the educational needs of migrants and asylum seekers have revealed the largely unattended challenges of young adults and the vulnerability involved in comparison to the relatively high educated mainstream population. Our research focusing on social inclusion of vulnerable groups through differentiated support activities provides space to discuss, how adult education may regain its leading role in enhancing equal opportunities towards active political, social and economic participation in the Nordic societies.
Promising or Compelling Future in Hungary?
Authors: Tóth Judit , Szirmai Éva , Merkovity Norbert , Pongó Tamás
Published: April 2021

Adult education, employment and integration strategies have been characterised by somewhat fragmented and uncoordinated implementation practices in the context of CEE (Central and Eastern Europe) region. Some relevant data (OECD, EUROSTAT) on socio-economic factors may provide partial explanation for this. Additionally, this could be explained through considering some examples of Roma and young people with disabilities, in terms of how they can access adult education. Specifically, these examples demonstrate how the national and European reform goals, capacity building projects and financial supports remain isolated and incomplete. In this chapter, we outline how these factors undermine the opportunities for independent and democratic thinking and participatory citizenship. Low skilled and low educated young Roma from underprivileged family backgrounds (e.g. long-term family unemployment), living in poor rural areas, and youngsters with disabilities living in difficult environments are facing similar barriers to becoming active, responsible and educated European citizens. This chapter brings attention to the significance of the development and implementation of appropriate prevention strategies as well as regular evaluation and monitoring of relevant programs. Some cross-cutting characteristics and implications will be identified and considered, and future directions of adult education will be discussed, including its needs, demand and supply in the context of this region.
Introduction
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

This chapter tells the story of the origin of the project from the Big Idea: the research design, the recruiting of the research team, adoption of the sample design, the database, the extensive field research effort, as well as the application of pattern analysis to arrive at findings on management practices. Details on the book’s organization can be found here, as well as some suggestions on how to absorb both the 36 company profiles in Chap. 26 and the detailed analyses in Chaps. 2–25.