bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the layers of reading achievement: A multi‐level analysis of student and school‐level predictors in top‐performing PIRLS 2021 countries
Authors: Pongsophon Pongprapan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the student‐ and school‐level predictors of reading performance across five top‐performing countries in the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) 2021. Utilising a multilevel analysis, the research examines the influence of cognitive development, socio‐cultural contexts and educational environments on reading achievement. The results reveal significant variances both between and within schools, highlighting the critical role of educational policies and practices in shaping student outcomes. Finland, known for its equity‐focused education system, demonstrates low between‐school variance, while Russia shows high between‐school variance owing to socio‐economic disparities. Key student‐level predictors include gender, digital self‐efficacy and a sense of school belonging, varying in significance across countries. At the school level, factors such as the number of computers, principal experience and academic emphasis significantly influence reading scores. The full model, incorporating both student‐ and school‐level predictors, explains a substantial portion of the variance in reading scores, especially in Hong Kong and Russia. These findings underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to educational research, considering both individual and institutional factors. Policy implications suggest targeted interventions for countries with high between‐school variances and support for inclusive learning environments where within‐school variances are significant. Future research should explore the impact of non‐cognitive factors and emerging educational practices on reading performance to develop more effective educational strategies globally.
Preliminary assessment of augmentative and alternative communication‐related stereotypy
Authors: Andzik Natalie R. , Walker Stephen F. , O’Hara Cassandra A. , Camacho Samantha A. , Landmeier Lacey , Brander Mary 
Published: July 2024

AbstractImproving social communication and reducing challenging forms of restricted and repetitive behaviors (i.e., stereotypy) are often the focus of behavioral interventions for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Interventions incorporating augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems are utilized to improve independent communication. However, using electronic AAC devices (e.g., iPads) may increase stereotypic behaviors (i.e., pressing the same icon on an AAC device two or more times within 2 s), which may impact the development and maintenance of communication skills. There is a shortage of research focusing on AAC‐related stereotypy, with only one study that includes a systematic assessment and treatment evaluation (Cook et al., 2017). The purpose of the current investigation was to conduct a functional analysis screening procedure that only included play and no‐interaction conditions to adequately assess the function of AAC‐related stereotypy. We sought to ask, how client‐specific modifications to functional assessment procedures affect the outcomes of functional assessments of AAC‐related stereotypy. Initial findings suggest that AAC‐related stereotypy is often automatically reinforced, but its occurrence can be sensitive to the presence/absence of specific environmental stimuli.
Simultaneous presentation and differential reinforcement to increase consumption
Authors: Peterson Kathryn M. , Crowley‐Zalaket Jaime G. , Ibañez Vivian F. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMany autistic children display feeding difficulties and consume a limited food variety. These feeding difficulties could be conceptualized as change‐resistant behavior because children often exhibit rigid mealtime routines, avoid novel foods, and only consume foods according to specific types, textures, or under specific mealtime conditions. Currently, behavior‐analytic treatments for pediatric feeding disorders have the most empirical support and many studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of extinction‐based treatments. However, there is less research on alternative treatments for increasing consumption of novel or non‐preferred foods among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the current study, we evaluated simultaneous presentation and differential reinforcement to increase consumption of novel, target foods for two participants with ASD and change‐resistant feeding behavior.
Integrating advanced computational skills into engineering education: A discipline‐based approach
Authors: Abell José A. , Moreno‐Casas Patricio A. , Recabarren Matías 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn an era where technology continually reshapes the landscape of professional practice, it has become relevant to equip engineering students with advanced computational skills beyond programming. This article presents a novel discipline‐based framework designed to integrate advanced computational skills into engineering education. Responding to challenges such as the disconnection between computational abilities and domain‐specific knowledge, and student demotivation due to overwhelming technological challenges, this study aims to validate the impact of the framework on domain learning, computational skill acquisition, and perceived future utility. Implementing a case study approach, we explore the development of high‐performance computing skills within a project‐based learning context in Civil Engineering. Results indicate significant improvements in students' understanding of both computational concepts and the engineering domain, evidenced by enhanced self‐perception and positive Technology Acceptance Model outcomes. The framework facilitated a meaningful connection between computational skills and professional applications, as seen in students' project reflections. Despite the promising results, the necessity for instructors to possess and impart computational knowledge is highlighted as an important factor for successful integration. This study contributes to educational computing research by providing a scalable approach to embedding advanced computational skills in engineering curricula, addressing existing educational challenges, and suggesting directions for future research.
Sodium Acrylate Synthesis Through CO2 and Ethylene Coupling Catalyzed by Pd: Solvent Effects and PdBr2 as a Surprisingly Suitable Precursor
Authors: Kunihiro Kana Y. , Marty Audrey , Chahen Ludovic , Magna Lionel , Asensio Juan M. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPd‐catalyzed carboxylation of ethylene into sodium acrylate is an industrially relevant reaction that has gained increasing attention in the last years. By this process, CO2 can be transformed into a value‐added molecule in a single, high atom economy step. However, there is still some room for improvement since the productivity of the reference catalyst is rather low. A key aspect to achieve this goal concerns the good understanding of reaction mechanism. Herein, we combine experimental and DFT studies to gain some knowledge on the reactivity and catalytic performance of the Pd/dicyclohexylphosphinoethane (dcpe) system. First, we were able to understand the influence of the solvent on the reaction, and we demonstrated that DMF was the best candidate due to the more efficient formation of the Pd‐metallalactone. Moreover, we have demonstrated that highly available and less costly PdBr2 can be a suitable precursor, as PdII is reduced in situ in DMF in the presence of an excess of NaOtBu. Finally, the role of different monophosphine additives has been elucidated, which permitted us to rationally improve the catalytic performance.
Tracking Microenvironmental Response on Self‐Assembled Phthalocyanine Systems – Adaptive and Non‐Adaptive Antibacterial Photosensitization
Authors: Galstyan Anzhela 
Published: July 2024

AbstractSelf‐assembly has proven to be one of the effective methods for the formation of nanoscale therapeutics without the need to use nanodelivery systems. Such minimal models of supramolecular systems formed from amphiphilic photosensitizers (PS) have recently emerged as a new class of photoactive systems, providing unique and in some cases superior activities. Although the mechanism of photogenerated reactive oxygen species (ROS) in such systems is studied and to a certain extent understood, there are very limited studies investigating the influence of intricate environmental factors, including those occurring in the cellular environment, on the self‐assembly and thus the activity of the system. Understanding the optimal conditions for the formation of active PS aggregates is an important area of research in the field of photodynamic therapy (PDT), as it is directly linked to the optimal treatment dose. In this study, we describe the synthesis, self‐assembly properties, photophysical characterization, and photobiological efficacy of structurally closely related low‐symmetry phthalocyanine derivatives. Studying the decay behavior of the PS fluorescence lifetime in the presence of molecular crowders and different bacterial strains, we found that certain derivatives exhibited adaptive behavior and change in activity, while others demonstrated non‐adaptive characteristics.
Electrocatalytic Dinitrogen Reduction to Ammonia Using Easily Reducible N‐Fused Cobalt Porphyrins
Authors: Ganesan Ashwin , Hajiseyedjavadi Alireza , Rathi Pinki , Kafle Alankar , Adesope Qasim , Kumar Sandeep , Mesilov Vitaly , Kelber Jeffry A. , Cundari Thomas R. , Sankar Muniappan , D'Souza Francis 
Published: July 2024

AbstractSingle‐site molecular electrocatalysts, especially those that perform catalytic conversion of N2 to NH3 under mild conditions, are highly desirable to derive fundamental structure‐activity relations and as potential alternatives to the current energy‐consuming Haber‐Bosch ammonia production process. Combining theoretical calculations with experimental evidence, it has been shown that easily reducible cobalt porphyrins catalyze the six‐electron, six‐proton reduction of dinitrogen to NH3 at neutral pH and under ambient conditions. Two easily reducible N‐fused cobalt porphyrins – CoNHF and CoNHF(Br)2 – reveal NRR activity with Faradic efficiencies between 6–7.5 % with ammonia yield rates of 300–340 μmol g−1 h−1. Contrary to this, much harder‐to‐reduce N‐fused porphyrins – CoNHF(Ph)2 and CoNHF(PE)2 – reveal no NRR activity. The present study highlights the significance of tuning the redox and structural properties of single‐site NRR electrocatalysts for improved NRR activity under mild conditions.
Surface‐Reengineering of BNNs@Hydrocarbon Polymer Composites for Ultra‐Low Dielectric Constant for High‐Frequency Applications
Authors: Zahidul Islam MD , Deb Hridam , Khalid Hasan MD , Abdullaev Azim , Peng Kun , Shi Shuaida , Dong Yubing , Fu Yaqin 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis research investigates the synthesis and evaluation of cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) composites with surface‐engineered boron nitride nanosheets (BNNs) at various concentrations. The study focuses on the impact of Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) on BNNs′ surface functionalization to improve their dispersion within the COC matrix, including its dielectric behavior, dielectric breakdown strength, thermal management capabilities, hygroscopic properties, and mechanical robustness. The methodological approach adopted for the fabrication of COC/BNNs hybrid composites commenced with the synthesis of BNNs, surface functionalization of BNNs, in‐situ mixing and hot‐press. This step aimed to enhance compatibility and adhesion between BNNs and the COC matrix, facilitating more homogeneous nanofiller dispersion. The investigative scope of this study encompassed a rigorous evaluation of the resultant composites, with a particular emphasis on their dielectric properties. The dielectric constant (ϵ′) and loss tangent (δ) were measured at a frequency of 10 GHz, revealing an ultra‐low dielectric constant of 1.28, an exceptionally minimal loss tangent of 0.000146, a remarkable 327% (In‐plane) & 129% (axial) increase of thermal conductivity, significant improvement of dielectric breakdown strength up to 88.4 mV/mm, and low water absorptions observed. These results indicate the potential of COC/BNNs composites for high‐frequency electronic packaging applications requiring low dielectric constants.
Pharmacokinetic Profile and Comparative Bioavailability of an Oral Fixed‐Dose Combination of Metformin and Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin)
Authors: Garza‐Ocañas Lourdes , Badillo‐Castañeda Christian T. , Montoya‐Eguía Sandra L. , Zanatta‐Calderón Maria T. , Sáenz‐Chávez Pedro Lennon , Torres‐Garza Julia D. , Rodriguez‐Vazquez Ileana C. , Romero‐Antonio Yulia , Rios‐Brito Kevin F. , González‐Canudas Jorge 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPatients with diabetes face a 2‐4‐fold greater cardiovascular risk compared to those without diabetes. Both metformin and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) treatment have demonstrated a significant reduction in this risk. This single‐center, open‐label, sequence randomized, 2 × 2 crossover, single‐dose clinical trial evaluated the pharmacokinetics profile and comparative bioavailability of a novel oral fixed‐dose combination (FDC) of metformin/acetylsalicylic acid (500/100 mg tablet) versus the reference mono‐drugs administered concomitantly, metformin 500 mg tablet and acetylsalicylic acid 100 mg tablet, in 22 healthy Mexican adult volunteers under fasting conditions. Blood samples were collected predose and at specified intervals across a 24‐hour period following administration and were analyzed for metformin and salicylic acid using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Test products were considered to have comparative bioavailability if confidence intervals of natural log‐transformed (maximum plasma drug concentration (Cmax), (area under the plasma drug concentration‐time curve form 0 up to last sampling time (AUC0‐t), and (area under the plasma drug concentration‐time cruve from 0 up to infinity (AUC0∞) data were within the range of 80%‐125%. The results obtained from the present clinical study demonstrate the comparative bioavailability of the FDC when compared with the coadministration of reference mono‐drugs. There were no adverse events or adverse reactions reported throughout the study.
Depletion‐assisted multiplexed cell‐free RNA sequencing reveals distinct human and microbial signatures in plasma versus extracellular vesicles
Authors: Wang Hongke , Zhan Qing , Ning Meng , Guo Hongjie , Wang Qian , Zhao Jiuliang , Bao Pengfei , Xing Shaozhen , Chen Shanwen , Zuo Shuai , Xia Xuefeng , Li Mengtao , Wang Pengyuan , Lu Zhi John 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundCell‐free long RNAs in human plasma and extracellular vesicles (EVs) have shown promise as biomarkers in liquid biopsy, despite their fragmented nature.MethodsTo investigate these fragmented cell‐free RNAs (cfRNAs), we developed a cost‐effective cfRNA sequencing method called DETECTOR‐seq (depletion‐assisted multiplexed cell‐free total RNA sequencing). DETECTOR‐seq utilised a meticulously tailored set of customised guide RNAs to remove large amounts of unwanted RNAs (i.e., fragmented ribosomal and mitochondrial RNAs) in human plasma. Early barcoding strategy was implemented to reduce costs and minimise plasma requirements.ResultsUsing DETECTOR‐seq, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of cell‐free transcriptomes in both whole human plasma and EVs. Our analysis revealed discernible distributions of RNA types in plasma and EVs. Plasma exhibited pronounced enrichment in structured circular RNAs, tRNAs, Y RNAs and viral RNAs, while EVs showed enrichment in messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and signal recognition particle RNAs (srpRNAs). Functional pathway analysis highlighted RNA splicing‐related ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) and antimicrobial humoral response genes in plasma, while EVs demonstrated enrichment in transcriptional activity, cell migration and antigen receptor‐mediated immune signals. Our study indicates the comparable potential of cfRNAs from whole plasma and EVs in distinguishing cancer patients (i.e., colorectal and lung cancer) from healthy donors. And microbial cfRNAs in plasma showed potential in classifying specific cancer types.ConclusionsOur comprehensive analysis of total and EV cfRNAs in paired plasma samples provides valuable insights for determining the need for EV purification in cfRNA‐based studies. We envision the cost effectiveness and efficiency of DETECTOR‐seq will empower transcriptome‐wide investigations in the fields of cfRNAs and liquid biopsy.Keypoints
DETECTOR‐seq (depletion‐assisted multiplexed cell‐free total RNA sequencing) enabled efficient and specific depletion of sequences derived from fragmented ribosomal and mitochondrial RNAs in plasma.
Distinct human and microbial cell‐free RNA (cfRNA) signatures in whole Plasma versus extracellular vesicles (EVs) were revealed.
Both Plasma and EV cfRNAs were capable of distinguishing cancer patients from normal individuals, while microbial RNAs in Plasma cfRNAs enabled better classification of cancer types than EV cfRNAs.
IL‐17 is associated with disease severity and targetable inflammatory processes in heart failure
Authors: Baumhove Lukas , van Essen Bart J. , Dokter Martin M. , Zijlstra Sietske N. , Deiman Frederik E. , Laman Jon D. , Lang Chim C. , Verstappen Gwenny M.P.J. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , van der Meer Peter , Bomer Nils , Voors Adriaan A. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAimsHeart failure (HF) is recognized as an inflammatory disease in which cytokines play an important role. In animal HF models, interleukin‐17A (IL‐17) has been linked to deterioration of cardiac function and fibrosis, whereas knock‐out of IL‐17 showed beneficial cardiac effects. However, there is limited evidence of IL‐17 involvement in patients with HF. This study aims to investigate the clinical characteristics, outcomes, and pathophysiological processes associated with circulating IL‐17 concentrations in patients with HF.Methods and resultsIL‐17 was measured by ELISA in 2082 patients diagnosed with HF along with 363 circulating proteins using proximity extension assay technology for differential expression and pathway analysis. Data were validated in an independent cohort of 1737 patients with HF. Patients with elevated IL‐17 concentrations had more severe HF, as reflected by more frequent current or previous hospitalizations for HF, higher New York Heart Association functional class (NYHA) and higher levels of N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP). High IL‐17 concentrations were independently associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for HF and mortality. In both cohorts, the most strongly up‐regulated proteins in patients with high IL‐17 were fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF‐21), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 13 (CXCL13), tumour necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 6B (TNFRSF6B) and interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RA). Pathway over‐representation analysis showed increased activity of pathways related to lymphocyte‐mediated immunity, leukocyte activation and regulation of the immune response.ConclusionsIn patients with HF, elevated IL‐17 concentrations indicate more severe HF and increased activity of inflammatory processes known to be involved in the pathophysiology of HF. IL‐17 might hold potential for identifying and targeting inflammation in HF.
Perspective‐taking predicts success in coalition formation
Authors: Cantiani Anabela , van Beest Ilja , Cruijssen Frans , Kant Goos , Erle Thorsten M. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPredominant economic theories of coalition formation assume that the best strategy during coalition negotiations is to approach as few partners as possible with self‐serving offers that barely beat all other competitors while maximizing one's profit. Accordingly, to be included in a winning coalition, one needs to be able to predict others’ intentions, which is called perspective‐taking. However, economists derived the idea that these strategies lead to success from observed coalition outcomes, rather than testing the role of perspective‐taking empirically or modeling coalition negotiation dynamics. The present research revisits these theories from a psychological perspective within a novel coalition formation game that mimics common problems in horizontal supply chain collaboration. In line with theories of coalition formation, perspective‐taking during the negotiation predicted higher inclusion in winning coalitions and higher monetary payoffs, but unexpectedly also longer negotiations. Contrary to predominant theories, perspective‐taking led individuals to approach more partners and make other‐serving offers, suggesting that successful coalition negotiations rely on different mechanisms than previously thought. These results are also practically relevant because companies often fail to orchestrate their transport flows, which leads to economic losses and environmental damage. These insights are valuable as they call for a psychological revision of predominant theories on coalition formation and shed light on how social behaviour influences horizontal collaboration in the transport sector. Furthermore, these findings underscore the potential of coalition‐driven approaches in mitigating environmental consequences, offering a pathway toward sustainable practices in the face of climate challenges.
Circadian copeptin and oxytocin profiles in anorexia nervosa: Exploring the interplay with neurohypophysis opioid tone
Authors: Doua Sandra , Germain Natacha , Merabet Manel , Redouté Jérôme , Boutet Claire , Schneider Fabien , Hammour Amira , Gay Aurélia , Massoubre Catherine , Estour Bruno , Galusca Bogdan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractContextNeurohypophysis (NH) function in eating disorders (ED) remains poorly elucidated. Studies on vasopressin and oxytocin display inconclusive findings regarding their levels and associations with psychological complications in ED. The profile of opioid tone, a crucial NH activity regulator, is also unknown.ObjectiveTo characterise the circadian profile of NH hormones and NH opioid tone using positron emission tomography/MRI (PET/MRI) imaging in patients with ED compared to healthy controls.MethodsTwelve‐point plasma circadian profiles of copeptin and oxytocin, alongside nutritional and psychological scores, were assessed in age‐matched female participants: 13 patients with anorexia nervosa restrictive‐type (ANR), 12 patients recovered from AN (ANrec), 14 patients with bulimia nervosa and 12 controls. Neurohypophysis PET/MRI [11C] diprenorphin binding potential (BPND) was evaluated in AN, ANrec and controls.ResultsResults revealed lower copeptin circadian levels in both ANR and ANrec compared to controls, with no oxytocin differences. Bulimia nervosa exhibited elevated copeptin and low oxytocin levels. [11C] diprenorphin pituitary binding was fully localised in NH. Anorexia nervosa restrictive‐type displayed lower NH [11C] diprenorphin BPND (indicating higher opioid tone) and volume than controls. In ANR, copeptin inversely correlated with osmolarity. Neurohypophysis [11C] diprenorphin BPND did not correlated with copeptin or oxytocin.ConclusionCopeptin demonstrated significant group differences, highlighting its potential diagnostic and prognostic value. Oxytocin levels exhibited conflicting results, questioning the reliability of peripheral blood assessment. Increased NH opioid tone in anorexia nervosa may influence the vasopressin or oxytocin release, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.