bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clemastine Induces Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Pool Exhaustion and Senescence in the Context of Chronic Demyelination in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Cooper James J. M. , Muthaiah Rupadevi , Frost Jon R. , Buck Gregory T. , Ravichandar Roopa , Gadelkarim Farah , Raymond Faye D. , Sim Fraser J. 
Published: October 2024

ObjectivesClemastine has emerged as a promising therapy for the restoration of neurologic function in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, clemastine and other agents with prodifferentiative effects on oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) in rodent models have underperformed in clinical trials. We hypothesized that the preclinical studies showed more robust effects because of the abundance of OPCs in rodent models. To better examine the therapeutic potential of clemastine, we examined its effect on demyelinated white matter lesions in rabbits, which exhibit progenitor densities and limited remyelination more closely matching those found in tissues from patients with MS.MethodsWe used lysolecithin to induce demyelination in white matter of New Zealand rabbits and then administered oral clemastine (10mg/kg/day) for various periods before assessing the OPC and oligodendrocyte (OL) populations in these lesions.ResultsDaily administration of clemastine for the full study period (56 days) increased oligodendrogenesis in white matter lesions. However, shorter durations of treatment failed to increase overall OL density despite enhancing OPC‐to‐OL differentiation. This effect was due to exhaustion of the OPC pool, as the differentiating progenitors were not replaced because of reduced OPC proliferation. Notably, delayed administration of clemastine led to an accumulation of activated OPCs expressing markers of senescence.InterpretationAlthough capable of driving OL differentiation, clemastine treatment in rabbits hampered progenitor pool replenishment, induced senescence, and promoted conversion of microglia/macrophages to a proinflammatory phenotype. Whether these effects would also occur in humans or with other prodifferentiative therapies should be studied further, but our data suggest the need to carefully consider progenitor dynamics in the treatment of MS. ANN NEUROL 2025;97:116–133
Recent Developments in Degenerate Higher Order Scalar Tensor Theories
Authors: Lazanu Andrei 
Published: October 2024

AbstractDegenerate Higher Order Scalar Tensor (DHOST) theories are the most general scalar‐tensor theories whose Lagrangian depends on the metric tensor and a single scalar field and its derivatives up to second order. They propagate only one scalar degree of freedom, without being plagued by Ostrogradsky instabilities. This is achieved through certain degeneracies of the functions forming their Lagrangian. They generalize the Horndeski and beyond‐Horndeski theories. Originally proposed to describe the late‐time acceleration of the expansion of the universe, generalizing the cosmological constant, they can also be used to build models of the early universe, to describe inflation or alternatives to standard inflation. In the late universe, they modify the standard Vainstein screening mechanism from Horndeski theories (which can have observable consequences) and are suited to build black hole models, featuring non‐stealth Kerr black hole solutions. In this work, their phenomenology is reviewed, looking at their basic properties, their parameterizations and classifications, focusing on solutions in the early and the late universe and at cosmological and astrophysical constraints.
Structurally Compact Penta(N,N‐diphenylamino)corannulene as Dopant‐free Hole Transport Materials for Stable and Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Xue‐Peng , Wang Luyao , Zhang Wen‐Xin , Chen Zuo‐Chang , Yang Chunming , Xu Si‐Yi , Du Peng , Chen Bin‐Wen , He Qunyang , Tian Han‐Rui , Zhu Xuejie , Li Meng , Wang Shan‐Shan , Deng Lin‐Long , Chen Si‐Hao , Zhang Qianyan , Xie Su‐Yuan , Zheng Lan‐Sun 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHole transport materials (HTMs) are essential for improving the stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this study, we have designed and synthesized a novel organic small molecule HTM, cor‐(DPA)5, characterized by a bowl‐shaped core with symmetric five diphenylamine groups. Compared to already‐known HTMs, the bowl‐shaped and relatively compact structure of cor‐(DPA)5 facilitates intermolecular π–π interactions, promotes film formations, and enhances charge transport. Consequently, the cor‐[DPA(2)]5 HTM exhibits high charge mobility, exceptional hydrophobicity, and a significantly elevated glass transition temperature. Superior to previously reported HTMs such as spiro‐OMeTAD and cor‐OMePTPA, our newly synthesized cor‐(DPA)5 HTM is free from any ionic dopants. As a result, the dopant‐free cor‐[DPA(2)]5‐based PSC demonstrates an impressive efficiency of 24.01 %, and exhibits outstanding operational stability. It retains 96 % after continuous exposure to 1 sun irradiation for 800 hours under MPP (maximum power point) tracking in ambient air. These findings present a structurally compact novel HTM and exemplify a new approach to the molecular design of HTM for the development of stable and effective PSCs.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Axially Chiral Allylic Nitriles via Nickel‐Catalyzed Desymmetric Cyanation of Biaryl Diallylic Alcohols
Authors: Li Can , Song Jian , Wang Ting , Fang Xianjie 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAxially chiral nitriles are common motifs in organic photoelectric materials, biological compounds, and agrochemicals. Unfortunately, the limited synthetic approaches to axially chiral nitriles have impeded their availability. Herein, we report the first nickel‐catalyzed desymmetric allylic cyanation of biaryl allylic alcohols for the synthesis of axially chiral nitrile structures in high yields with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 90 % yield and >99 % ee). This process enables the synthesis of a diverse range of axially chiral allylic nitriles bearing β,γ‐unsaturated alcohol moieties. Leveraging the allylic alcohol and cyano groups as versatile functionalization handles allow for further derivatization of these axially chiral frameworks. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that both steric and electronic interactions play crucial roles in determining the enantioselectivity of this transformation. Moreover, this mild and facile protocol is also applicable for gram‐scale preparation of the chiral nitriles.
Diversity Oriented Strategy (DOS) for the Efficient Synthesis of Benzofuro[2,3‐b]pyridine Derivatives with Anticancer Activity
Authors: Ereje Reymark , Yahuafai Jantana , Jaroenchuensiri Theeranuch , Supakijjanusorn Patcharaporn , Unson Sukanya , Toopradab Borwornlak , Rungrotmongkol Thanyada , Pianwanit Somsak , Aonbangkhen Chanat , Khotavivattana Tanatorn 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBenzofuropyridines (BFP) are polycyclic compounds with known applications in neuronal diseases. However, its derivatization patterns and anticancer potential remains unexplored. Leveraging the idea of diversity‐oriented synthesis (DOS), we developed a highly efficient synthetic route for BFP, to increase the library of available analogs producing three compounds in one reaction set up, including the 2O‐, 6O‐, and the 1 N‐substituted species, also synthesizing the unusual 2‐pyridone derivatives. Key bromination reaction of the BFP moiety was successfully described which can widen the available variation in the compound's structure. The cytotoxic activity of the compounds was assessed against SH‐SY5Y (neuroblastoma), HepG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma), Kb (human oral epidermoid), HeLa (cervical) and MCF‐7 (breast) cancer cell lines. In the series, the m‐bromobenzyl (5 b), methylcyano (5 g) and propargyl (5 h) 2O‐derivatives demonstrated good selectivity against cancer cells with selectivity index (SI) of >71 for 5 g against HeLa over the normal cells, as compared to the standard drug, Doxorubicin (SI=6.7). The quantitative structure‐activity relationship (QSAR) analysis revealed an impressive correlation of the defined descriptors with the bioactivity having an R2 value of 0.971 and 0.893 for Kb and HeLa respectively. Altogether, our work highlighted new information on the synthesis of BFP derivatives with potent cytotoxic activity.
High‐Pressure Cell for In Situ Grazing Incidence XAS Characterization of Model Catalysts on Planar Supports
Authors: Phadke Sumant , Coroa João , Abbas Imran , Yin Jinlong , Grandjean Didier , Janssens Ewald , Safonova Olga V. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe growing interest in physically deposited model catalysts for uncovering complex structure‐activity relationships is spurred by the possibility of depositing nanoparticles of precise atomic structure and composition using cluster‐beam sources. However, the limitations accompanying these synthesis techniques, such as low deposition rates and flat sample geometry, present a challenge for in situ structural characterization using bulk‐sensitive methods, such as X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), especially at elevated pressures (1–100 bar). To overcome this challenge, we constructed an in situ XAS cell operating in a grazing incidence (GI) geometry. The GIXAS cell was used to investigate the structure of cluster‐beam‐generated Pd and Au0.3Ag0.7 nanoparticles under CO2‐to‐methanol hydrogenation conditions (230 °C, 20 bar, CO2:H2=1 : 3). These nanoparticles, with metal loading of 0.96–10 μg cm−2, demonstrated stability and resistance to sintering upon activation in H2 at 120 °C and catalytic conditions, revealed by in situ XAS. The promising results from our work will help bridge the gap in the investigation of model catalytic materials produced by gas‐phase cluster deposition at industrially relevant pressures and temperatures, which is vital for a mechanistic understanding of catalytic processes.
Modeling of Inscribed Dual Band Circular Fractal Antenna for Wi‐Fi Application Using Descartes Circle Theorem
Authors: Palanisamy SatheeshKumar , Vaddinuri Anitha R. , Khan Arfat Ahmad , Faheem Muhammad 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTThis study focuses on the modeling of a dual‐band circular fractal antenna designed for Wi‐Fi applications by utilizing the Descartes Circle Theorem. The antenna's geometry is characterized by self‐similar fractal patterns, enabling enhanced performance in dual frequency bands relevant to Wi‐Fi communication. Current research is trending towards the development of antennas capable of operating across various Wi‐Fi bands, and the emerging 6 GHz band. In this article, there is also a focus on achieving ultra‐wideband functionality to cater to the requirements of future wireless technologies. Incorporation with Circuits and Systems: Ongoing efforts are directed at seamlessly integrating these antennas with RF circuits and communication systems to enhance their practical utility and applicability. The exploration of unconventional fractal shapes and the utilization of advanced optimization algorithms present promising avenues for enhancing antenna performance and achieving miniaturization. This research contributes to the advancement of compact and efficient antenna designs for wireless communication systems. Detailed considerations are given to the 2.4 and 5.55 GHz bands to ensure compatibility with standard Wi‐Fi protocols. The designed circular fractal antenna is compared with the conventional circular patch antenna and the results were analyzed. At the resonating frequency of 2.4 and 5.55 GHz, circular patch antenna has a reflection coefficient (S11) of −18.1 and −13.51, respectively with a peak gain of 3.6 dBi, whereas, the designed circular fractal antenna shows an improved reflection coefficient, S11 of −22.0 and −15.5 dB at the same resonating frequency with a peak gain of 11.7920 dBi. The radiation pattern shows that the antenna radiated in unidirectional pattern with the front‐to‐back ratio of 101.4 which is higher than circular patch antenna. The miniaturized antenna is fabricated through photo etching process, tested, and validated.
Global initiatives and challenges in integrating artificial intelligence literacy in elementary education: Mapping policies and empirical literature
Authors: Yeter Ibrahim H. , Yang Weipeng , Sturgess Joshita B. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractArtificial intelligence (AI) has permeated most facets of life in the 21st century and has rapidly transformed various aspects of modern society. From entertainment to education, these advanced technologies have achieved a high level of competency in skills that once necessitated human involvement. Given AI's potential impact, ensuring students are literate in AI will support the careful integration of these advanced technologies to achieve sustainable development goals. This review hence examines the avenues for integrating AI literacy into elementary education by analyzing current global initiatives focused on implementing AI literacy education. The purpose is to support innovations within the educational framework to develop a universally accessible AI literacy education program. In line with this purpose, this study explores worldwide AI literacy initiatives that use hands‐on activities, collaborative learning, and project‐based learning to introduce AI fundamentals to diverse learners. Limitations on the provision of AI literacy education are also discussed, including professional development, openness to AI tools, and other challenges. This review aims to inform global efforts to support universal access to AI literacy education, which can ensure equitable outcomes for all learners, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to support the development and delivery of quality AI literacy education.
Reimagining higher education: The impact of learner outcome metrics in Ireland and beyond
Authors: Dunne Gerry 
Published: October 2024

AbstractA college is an institution that exists to provide instruction. Subtly but profoundly, we are shifting to a new paradigm: a college is an institution that exists to produce learning (Barr & Tagg, 1995, p. 13). This paper traces the evolution of learner outcomes, from their progeny as a diagnostic tool in accurately measuring learning gains and facilitating institutional self‐improvement, to their present distorted incarnation, in propagating “governance by numbers”. The paper proceeds in a number of steps. Firstly, it begins with a brief contextualization of the topography of higher education. It then moves to explore the OECD influences regarding quantifying outcomes and aligning them with performance metrics. From here, it looks to EU deliberations in the shape of the Bologna Process with its enduring iterations, the purpose of which benchmarks HEIs' (higher education institutions) success against the successful achievement of learner outcomes. To conclude, taking the example of the Irish funding and strategy, Hunt Report (National Strategy for Higher Education to 2030), I provide an explanatory account detailing how this “learning outcomes race” and its association with “success metrics” within the higher education landscape is mistaken and harmful.
Toward a comprehensive understanding of massive open online course adoption among college students
Authors: Huang Qiongzhen , Li Shan , Du Yuxia 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis paper investigated the factors affecting the behavioral intention (BI) and usage behavior (UB) of 548 Chinese college students in massive open online courses (MOOCs). We extended the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model by incorporating self‐regulated learning (SRL) management, perceived pleasure (PP), and perceived cost constructs. This study also analyzed the moderating role of individual differences in gender, grade, major, and experience in MOOCs. Data were collected through both offline surveys across 10 universities and an online survey platform. Results from structural equation modeling and multi‐linear regression analyses revealed that students' BI was significantly and positively influenced by six factors: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, facilitating conditions (FC), social influence, SRL management (SM), and PP. Furthermore, we found that UB was predicted by BI, FC, and SM. Moreover, BI played a mediating role in the relationship between the two determining variables (i.e., FC and SM) and UB. Differences in MOOC experience level had a moderation effect. The study provided implications for various stakeholders regarding designing MOOC platforms, structures, and teaching activities.
The SRC/NF‐κB‐AKT/NOS3 axis as a key mediator of Kaempferol's protective effects against oxidative stress‐induced osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Shen Jiaming , Hu Chunjie , Wang Yuelong , Tan Yiying , Gao Xiaochen , Zhang Nanxi , Lv Jingwei , Sun Jiaming 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundOsteoclasts are integral to the advancement of osteoporosis (OP), and their generation under conditions of oxidative stress (OS) involves various pathways. However, the specific mechanism through which the natural antioxidant kaempferol (KAE) mitigates the influence of OS on osteoclasts remains somewhat uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the effect of KAE on osteoclast formation under OS and explore its possible mechanism.MethodsZebrafish were used to observe the effects of KAE on OP and OS. OP and OS "double disease targets" network pharmacology were used to predict the action target and mechanism of KAE on OP under OS. The effects of KAE on osteoclast differentiation induced by OS were evaluated using RWA264.7 cells induced by LPS. To elucidate the potential mechanism, we detected the expression of related factors and target genes during induction.ResultsThe presence of KAE exhibited potential in improving the conditions of OP and OS in zebrafish. KAE can reduce the OS of RAW 264.7 cells stimulated by LPS, inhibit the formation of osteoclasts, and change the level of related factors of OS, and reduce the increase of TRAP. The utilization of network pharmacology and target gene expression assay revealed that KAE exerted a down‐regulatory effect on the expression of proto‐oncogene tyrosine protein kinase (SRC), nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB), Serine/Threonine Kinase‐1 (AKT1), Nitric Oxide Synthase 3 (NOS3) and Matrix Metallopeptidase‐2 (MMP2).ConclusionBased on the results of this study, KAE may effectively mitigate OS and impede the formation of osteoclasts through the SRC/NF‐κB‐AKT/NOS3 axis.
Read STOP Write: Teaching foundational skills in a multicomponent informational reading and writing intervention
Authors: Strong John Z. , Tortorelli Laura S. , Anderson Blythe E. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractMany adolescent readers experience difficulties comprehending informational text, which may result from underlying difficulties with foundational skills (e.g., word recognition and fluency), knowledge demands (e.g., background, text structure, and vocabulary), and/or reading motivation. Supplemental interventions for adolescents targeting only foundational skills demonstrate mixed results, but multicomponent interventions that combine multisyllabic decoding, fluency, and comprehension strategies that build word and world knowledge to support complex text reading can improve foundational skills and comprehension for students in upper‐elementary and middle grades. In this article, we describe how prior research informed the design of Read STOP Write, a multicomponent intervention for students in grades 4–9. Read STOP Write integrates instruction in multisyllabic decoding, fluency, and vocabulary with comprehension instruction focused on building knowledge and using text structures to read and write about science and social studies texts. We summarize research conducted in culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms and discuss implications for teachers of adolescents.
Implementation of Ultrasound‐Guided Cannulation Training Across Eight NHSBT Therapeutic Apheresis Units in England
Authors: Putensen Daniel , Ntakirutimana Samuel , Lyon Marc , Audsley Bridget , Newbound Nicola 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTUltrasound‐guided cannulation (USGC) of a peripheral vein reduces the need for central vascular access device (CVAD) placement to perform a successful apheresis procedure. Effective training of healthcare professionals to acquire this skill is essential. Here, we report on the implementation of the USGC training across eight apheresis units in England. A 3‐h introductory training program was devised with theoretical and practical elements. This was followed by supervised USGC practices on any patient ≥ 18 years old, regardless of venous status. Data on all supervised USGC attempts were recorded and analyzed. Over an 11‐month period, 11 nurses were trained to USGC competency with another six nurses still in training, resulting in seven out of eight units having at least one USGC‐competent nurse. In one unit, USGC training has not started yet. Three hundred sixty‐one supervised USGC episodes on 168 patients and donors took place; of these, 178 were done for training purposes only on patients who had visible and palpable veins, 179 USGC were done on patients with difficult venous status and four were not recorded. The period from first supervised USGC to competency was a median of 45 days (Range: 17–166 days), with a median of 15 successful (Range: 10–30) and two unsuccessful (Range: 1–15) USGC being performed per trainee. The placement of 57 CVADs and 41 multiple cannulation attempts have been avoided. USGC is a useful tool to reduce the need for CVAD. Training across multiple apheresis units is a lengthy procedure, but it can be successfully implemented.
Exploring the Link between Serum Klotho and High‐Frequency Hearing Loss in Older Adults
Authors: Yan Jingchao , Li Ling , Ye Qing , Huang Taomin 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveKlotho is a protein with various biological functions, including anti‐aging effects. Although research suggests Klotho plays a key role in auditory function, the relationship between serum Klotho levels and high‐frequency hearing loss (HFHL) in older adults remains unclear.MethodsWe analyzed data from individuals aged 70–79 years participating in the 2009–2010 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Multivariate logistic regression models were employed to assess the relationship between serum Klotho levels and HFHL. Restricted cubic splines were utilized to evaluate linearity and examine the dose–response relationship. Additionally, we performed subgroup analyses to evaluate the consistency of this relationship across various subgroups.ResultsIn this study of 422 elderly individuals aged 70–79 years (mean age 73.8 years, with 47.4% male participants), the median serum Klotho concentration was 754.6 pg/mL. Multivariable logistic regression analysis consistently demonstrated that higher serum Klotho levels were associated with a reduced risk of HFHL across various models (ORs: 0.24–0.32, p = 0.020–0.028). Additionally, restricted cubic spline analysis confirmed a linear negative association between serum Klotho levels and HFHL risk, with a p‐value for nonlinearity of 0.474. Subgroup analyses did not reveal any statistically significant interactions modifying this relationship.ConclusionSerum Klotho levels are inversely associated with the risk of HFHL.Level of Evidence3 Laryngoscope, 135:1169–1176, 2025