bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sexual health in patients with malignant hematological disease: a Danish cross-sectional study
Authors: Nørskov Kristina Holmegaard , Schjoedt Ida , Tolver Anders , Jarden Mary 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Patients who undergo treatment for hematologic malignancies may experience a decline in sexual health, alterations in sexual functioning, and reproductive capacity during survivorship.

Aim
This study investigated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and factors influencing sexual activity and functioning in patients with hematologic malignancies, to identify potential targets for interventions in clinical practice.

Methods
This nationwide cross-sectional study included adult patients diagnosed with a hematologic malignant disease in Denmark in the period from January 20, 2013, to August 20, 2022. Eligible participants received electronic questionnaires through their officially assigned digital mailbox.

Outcomes
Outcomes included the Female Sexual Function Index, International Index of Erectile Function, Female Sexual Distress Scale–Revised, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire–Sexual Health, and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Results
A total of 362 patients, on average 5.7 ± 3.4 years postdiagnosis, completed the questionnaires. Of these, 52.5% women and 73.2% men reported sexual dysfunction, with more women (40.9%) than men (34.1%) being sexually inactive. Across gender, this was significantly more prevalent in patients &gt;65 years of age and in those with a low quality of life. In addition, for women a significant association with fatigue and sleep difficulties was observed. In total, 40.3% reported sexual-related personal distress, with the highest proportion among patients 40 to 65 years of age. Most patients (98.7%) with sexual dysfunction had not discussed sexual issues with their healthcare professional.

Clinical implications
It is hoped that knowledge from this study will help healthcare professionals in clinical practice and encourage them to proactively address and discuss sexual health issues with their patients, irrespective of age.

Strengths and Limitations
Sexually inactive participants may reduce the overall score of sexual function in the scoring of both the Female Sexual Function Index and International Index of Erectile Function. We therefore analyzed sexual function in a subgroup analysis in only those being sexually active to emphasize that level of dysfunction persists in sexually active participants.

Conclusion
Patients report a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction, sexual distress, and gender-specific sexual symptoms following diagnosis and treatment of a malignant hematologic disease, impacting their quality of life.
Sexual Health in Patients With Hematologic Malignancies; NCT05222282; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05222282.
Nocturnal sleep dynamics alterations in the early stages of behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Gnoni Valentina , Tamburrino Ludovica , Baldazzi Giulia , Urso Daniele , Zoccolella Stefano , Giugno Alessia , Figorilli Michela , Nigro Salvatore , Tafuri Benedetta , Vilella Davide , Vitulli Alessandra , Zecca Chiara , Dell’Abate Maria Teresa , Pani Danilo , Puligheddu Monica , Rosenzweig Ivana , Filardi Marco , Logroscino Giancarlo 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Study Objectives
Sleep disorders have been recognized as an integral component of the clinical syndrome in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, limited data exist for rarer types of neurodegenerative diseases, such as behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). This study aims to analyze EEG power spectra and sleep stage transitions in bvFTD patients, hypothesizing that bvFTD may show distinctive sleep stage transitions compared to patients with AD.

Methods
Eighteen probable bvFTD patients and 18 age- and sex-matched probable patients with AD underwent overnight polysomnography (PSG) and completed sleep disorders questionnaires. Sleep questionnaires, full-night EEG spectra, and sleep stage transition indexes were compared between groups.

Results
bvFTD patients had higher Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) scores (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0, 5) and reported poorer sleep quality than AD patients (p &lt; .01). Compared to AD, bvFTD patients showed higher N1 percentage (95% CI: 0.1, 6), lower N3 percentage (95% CI: −13.6, −0.6), higher sleep–wake transitions (95% CI: 1.49, 8.86) and N1 sleep–wake transitions (95% CI: 0.32, 6.1). EEG spectral analysis revealed higher spectral power in bvFTD compared to patients with AD in faster rhythms, especially sigma rhythm, across all sleep stages. In bvFTD patients, sleep–wake transitions were positively associated with ISI.

Conclusions
Patients with bvFTD present higher rates of transitions between wake and sleep than patients with AD. The increased frequency of sleep transitions indicates a higher degree of sleep instability in bvFTD, which may reflect an imbalance in sleep–wake-promoting systems. Sleep stage transitions analysis may provide novel insights into the sleep alterations of patients with bvFTD.
Impacts of dietary supplementation of chitosan nanoparticles on growth, carcass traits nutrient digestibility, blood biochemistry, intestinal microbial load, and meat quality of broilers
Authors: Adil Sheikh , Aldhalmi Ahmed K , Wani Manzoor A , Baba Irfan A , Sheikh I U , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E , Aljahdali Nesreen , Albaqami Najah M , Abuljadayel Dalia A 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This study explores the impact of chitosan nanoparticles (CNP) on the performance, nutrient digestibility, blood biochemical, immunity, microbial load, carcass traits, and meat attributes of broilers. A total of 200 7-d-old Cobb chicks were distributed to 4 groups, each replicated 5 times, with 10 birds in each replicate. The experimental diets were as follows: First group was fed a basal diet only (control); 2nd, 3rd, and 4th groups received a basal diet supplemented with 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 g CNP/kg of feed, respectively. Results showed that the body weight (BW) and body weight gain significantly improved (P &lt; 0.05) in the birds belonging to the 0.4 CNP group compared to the other groups. The best feed efficiency (feed conversion ratio [FCR]) was found in the group supplemented with a 0.4-g CNP/kg diet. The digestibility coefficients for dry matter and crude protein were significantly higher, and ether extract was significantly lower in the 0.4 g CNP/kg group than in other groups (P &lt; 0.05). Broiler birds of the 0.4 CNP group had significantly (P &lt; 0.05) reduced serum cholesterol, AST, and ALT levels. The humoral immunity (increased serum IgG and IgM levels) tended to improve in birds fed 0.3 and 0.4 g CNP/kg of feed. Compared to the control, total bacterial load and coliform count decreased significantly (P &lt; 0.05) by supplementing 0.4 g CNP in the diet. The dressing weight, breast weight, and abdominal fat % were altered in birds receiving dietary 0.4 g CNP/kg. The treatment with CNP at 0.4 g/kg feed enhanced the broiler meat quality by increasing the values for water holding capacity, ABTS [2, 2ʹ-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)], DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) while reducing the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) value. Based on the results above, it could be concluded that CNP supplementation at 0.4 g/kg is recommended as a beneficial feed additive for broiler chickens.
Determination of energy values in pistachio shell powder and soybean hulls fed to gestating and lactating sows
Authors: Kim Yeonwoo , Lee Su A , Stein Hans H 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Pistachio shell powder is a high-fiber co-product from the pistachio nut industry that may provide energy and nutrients in animal diets, but no data have been reported for the nutritional value of pistachio shell powder when fed to pigs. Two experiments were, therefore, conducted to test the hypothesis that apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy (GE), dry matter (DM), and total dietary fiber (TDF) and concentration of digestible energy (DE) in pistachio shell powder are not different from those in soybean hulls when fed to gestating or lactating sows. In experiment 1, 24 gestating sows were housed in metabolism crates and fed a corn-based basal diet or 2 diets that contained corn and 20% pistachio shell powder or corn and 20% soybean hulls. Sows were fed experimental diets for 13 d with feces and urine being quantitatively collected for 4 d after 6 d of adaptation. In experiment 2, 24 lactating sows were housed in farrowing crates and fed a diet based on corn and soybean meal (SBM) or 2 diets that contained corn, SBM, and 20% of either pistachio shell powder or soybean hulls, and feces were collected for 6 d after 7 d of adaptation to the diets. Results indicated that for gestating sows, the diet containing soybean hulls had greater (P &lt; 0.05) ATTD of DM, GE, and TDF than the diet containing pistachio shell powder. The DE and metabolizable energy (ME) in the pistachio shell powder diet were less (P &lt; 0.05) than in the basal diet and the diet containing soybean hulls. The ME in pistachio shells (2,606 kcal/kg DM) was less (P &lt; 0.05) than in soybean hulls (3,645 kcal/kg DM). When fed to lactating sows, ATTD of DM, GE, and TDF in the diet containing pistachio shell powder was less (P &lt; 0.05) than in the diet containing soybean hulls or in the basal diet. The DE in the diet containing pistachio shell powder was also less (P &lt; 0.05) than in the soybean hulls diet. The DE in pistachio shell powder (1,664 kcal/kg DM) was less (P &lt; 0.05) than in soybean hulls (2,795 kcal/kg DM). In conclusion, the ATTD of DM and GE and the DE in pistachio shell powder were less than in soybean hulls, and inclusion in lactation diets, therefore, needs to be limited.
Independent repeated mutations within the alphaviruses Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus indicates convergent evolution and past positive selection in ancestral populations despite ongoing purifying selection
Authors: Pyke Alyssa T , Wilson Daniel J , Michie Alice , Mackenzie John S , Imrie Allison , Cameron Jane , Doggett Stephen L , Haniotis John , Herrero Lara J , Caly Leon , Lynch Stacey E , Mee Peter T , Madzokere Eugene T , Ramirez Ana L , Paramitha Devina , Hobson-Peters Jody , Smith David W , Weir Richard , Sullivan Mitchell , Druce Julian , Melville Lorna , Robson Jennifer , Gibb Robert , van den Hurk Andrew F , Duchene Sebastian 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Ross River virus (RRV) and Barmah Forest virus (BFV) are arthritogenic arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) that exhibit generalist host associations and share distributions in Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG). Using stochastic mapping and discrete-trait phylogenetic analyses, we profiled the independent evolution of RRV and BFV signature mutations. Analysis of 186 RRV and 88 BFV genomes demonstrated their viral evolution trajectories have involved repeated selection of mutations, particularly in the nonstructural protein 1 (nsP1) and envelope 3 (E3) genes suggesting convergent evolution. Convergent mutations in the nsP1 genes of RRV (residues 248 and 441) and BFV (residues 297 and 447) may be involved with catalytic enzyme mechanisms and host membrane interactions during viral RNA replication and capping. Convergent E3 mutations (RRV site 59 and BFV site 57) may be associated with enzymatic furin activity and cleavage of E3 from protein precursors assisting viral maturation and infectivity. Given their requirement to replicate in disparate insect and vertebrate hosts, convergent evolution in RRV and BFV may represent a dynamic link between their requirement to selectively ‘fine-tune’ intracellular host interactions and viral replicative enzymatic processes. Despite evidence of evolutionary convergence, selection pressure analyses did not reveal any RRV or BFV amino acid sites under strong positive selection and only weak positive selection for nonstructural protein sites. These findings may indicate that their alphavirus ancestors were subject to positive selection events which predisposed ongoing pervasive convergent evolution, and this largely supports continued purifying selection in RRV and BFV populations during their replication in mosquito and vertebrate hosts.
Transition to primary school in China: an analysis of policy documents since 1949
Authors: Ma Junqian 
Published: September 2024

PurposeChina’s education has rapidly developed since 1949. Although much has been written about reforms in China’s preschool and primary education policies, less attention has been given to the transition-to-primary school policies.Design/methodology/approachThis study examines the evolution of these policies from 1949 onward, analysing 61 policy documents from the PKULaw.FindingsFour phases are identified: minimal political attention (1949–1982), steady policy releases (1983–2004), stagnation (2005–2010) and frequent updates (since 2011). Policy changes align with educational development, reflecting a shift from academic readiness to overall development. Increased government involvement has led to more diverse themes and more cooperation among stakeholders. The role of the preschool class has evolved from basic support for children without kindergarten access to an institution for early academic learning, prompting policies to restrict it.Originality/valueThese findings provide valuable insights for optimizing China’s educational policies and offer lessons for other nations facing similar challenges in transitioning children from preschool to primary school.
Board gender equality and ESG performance. Evidence from European banking sector
Authors: Menicucci Elisa , Paolucci Guido 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between board gender equality and environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance in the European banking sector. The study examines whether and how the presence of women on the board of directors (BoD) influences ESG dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors analyzed a sample of 72 European Union banks for the period 2015–2021 and developed an econometric model applying unbalanced panel data regression with firm fixed effects and controls per year. To test the research hypotheses, the authors considered gender equality in terms of female participation on the BoD and measured ESG dimensions by using the ESG score provided by Refinitiv.

Findings
The findings suggest a significant positive relationship between the number of women on BoD and the ESG performance of European banks only up to a certain threshold of female directors (at least three women). The study also explores how the proportion of women on BoD influences the individual ESG pillars. The results show that the percentage of female directors has a positive and statistically significant impact on the social dimension of the ESG framework.

Research limitations/implications
The investigation is highly relevant to investors considering ESG issues in their decision-making process. The overall findings support policymakers and regulators on how to improve ESG performance through the design and the application of corporate governance (CG) mechanisms. From a managerial perspective, the study suggests that managers and CEOs should focus their efforts on establishing the right gender combination of directors on bank BoDs.

Originality/value
This paper offers an in-depth examination of the CG practices of banks, and it attempts to bridge the gap in prior literature on the determinants of ESG issues in the European banking industry. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first that investigates the relationship between the representation of women on BoDs and the ESG dimensions measured by the Refinitiv Eikon score. The use of critical mass theory adds a fresh perspective to the literature on ESG in Europe since the influence of board gender diversity on ESG performance of the European banks is still unaccounted for. This study addresses this pressing research issue drawing on resource dependence, agency and legitimacy theories.
Nexus between corporate governance and FinTech disclosure: a comparative study between conventional and Islamic banks
Authors: Shehadeh Maha , Ahmed Fatma , Hussainey Khaled , Alkaraan Fadi 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
This study investigates the impact of corporate governance on FinTech disclosure levels in Jordanian conventional and Islamic banks. It aims to determine whether governance mechanisms affect disclosure practices in the FinTech sector, exploring the interplay between governance and transparency in financial innovations.

Design/methodology/approach
The research methodology entails a thorough analysis of data from all 15 Jordanian conventional and Islamic banks listed on the Amman Stock Exchange, covering the period from 2015 to 2022. This study uses manual content analysis using a custom FinTech Disclosure Index (FDI) and quantitative analysis with a two-way clustered error regression model.

Findings
The findings show that corporate governance mechanisms, particularly board size, board meetings and “Big4” audit firms, are crucial in enhancing FinTech disclosure across conventional and Islamic banks. However, Islamic banks consistently show higher disclosure levels than their conventional counterparts, attributed to their distinct governance structures that emphasize ethical governance and transparency. These results indicate an awareness among decision-makers about the importance of business model transformation toward FinTech.

Originality/value
This study pioneers the introduction of FDI, using it for a novel comparative analysis of FinTech disclosure levels between Islamic and conventional banks. By exploring how various governance structures influence FinTech disclosure, this research provides fresh insights into the interplay between corporate governance and financial technologies in the banking sector.
Does psychological capital alleviate work overload-induced work exhaustion and burnout among teleworkers? A moderated-mediation approach
Authors: Anwar Imran , Yasin Naveed , Jamal Mohd Tariq , Rashid Muhammad Haroon , Saleem Imran 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
This study aims to investigate how work overload, resulting from full-time telecommuting, aggravates telecommuting accounting professionals’ burnout via the mediation of work exhaustion. Further, the study also tests the conditional moderation effect of psychological capital on the association between work exhaustion and burnout, proposing that it becomes least severe for employees who perceive a high level of psychological capital.

Design/methodology/approach
The research was conducted using a sample of 322 employees from Big Four accounting firms, and the measurement model was established using confirmatory factor analysis. Hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling and model-14 in the PROCESS Macro for SPSS.

Findings
The results confirmed that work overload directly and indirectly (via the mediation of work exhaustion) aggravates employees’ burnout. However, psychological capital negatively conditions the mediating effect of work exhaustion on burnout such that the aggravating effect of work overload on burnout, via the mediation of work exhaustion, gets least severe (insignificant) for those employees who perceive a high level of psychological capital.

Originality/value
The study contributes to the literature on work overload-induced “work exhaustion burnout” association and offers suggestions for implications.
A bibliometric study on the effects of e-learning technologies on innovative competency development of university librarians and smart library services
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Khan Shakeel Ahmad , Javeed Asfa Muhammed Din , Latif Mujahid , Shabbir Omar 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to conduct a bibliometric analysis to discover the published information on the effects of e-learning technologies on innovative competency development of university librarians and smart library services.

Design/methodology/approach
This study is based on bibliometric research methodology. The data were retrieved from the leading database Web of Science to analyze the scholarly publications on the topic during 1965–2023. VOSviewer and Biblioshiny software were used to analyze the bibliometric data on the subject.

Findings
Results displayed that the topic of e-learning technologies in the domain of librarianship has been greatly used by several authors as a title to publish their research work. The dominance of countries such as the USA, China and the UK in research output reveals their leadership in advancing research and innovation in the field of e-learning technologies for university libraries.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first bibliometric study that has been conducted to measure the productivity of literature at the international level on the effects of e-learning technologies on innovative competency development of university librarians and smart library services.
Digital transformation of reading behaviors among allied health students: insights from medical libraries in Pakistan
Authors: Jabeen Misbah , Faraz Muhammad Tasawar , Jabeen Munazza 
Published: September 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the digital transformation of students' reading preferences and behaviors, considering the significant impact of digital resources accessible through the internet among allied health students.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers used a structured questionnaire to collect data. The study focused on undergraduate allied health students from medical universities in Pakistan. The researchers used a convenient sampling technique. Data analysis was performed using statistical software packages R and SPSS.FindingsThe results indicate that allied health students frequently use databases, e-books and e-journals to fulfil their academics and research needs, aiding in the acquisition of up-to-date information and supporting various academic research pursuits. The study emphasizes the positive effects on the reading habits of allied health students, attributing these improvements to factors such as enhanced online databases, a broader array of materials and the integration of digital tools. However, challenges arise from the limited availability of relevant e-resources and the dispersion of information across various library sources.Originality/valueThis study provides valuable insights into the availability and utilization of e-resources among allied health students in Pakistan. It highlights the crucial role that digital resources play in shaping reading behaviors within the educational landscape. This study holds significance as it contributes to educational enhancement, proves beneficial for the improvement of university library resources and services and aids in the development of policies in health-care education.