bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
International monetary spillovers to frontier financial markets: Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Sardar Md. Rashedur Rahman , Schaffer Matthew 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis paper investigates international monetary spillovers to stock prices in Bangladesh, a frontier market that has been excluded from prior studies in the literature. Using daily stock price data for over 300 publicly traded firms in a high‐frequency event study framework, we find that contractionary monetary shocks originating from the US, euro area, and China lower stock prices, with Chinese monetary shocks having the largest impact. Contractionary shocks originating from India, on the other hand, lead to a statistically significant increase in stock returns. The positive response is driven by a small number of policy decisions. When these outlier decisions are removed from the sample, contractionary Indian monetary shocks lead to a decline in stock prices in line with spillovers from the other countries.
Dementia friendly in the context of hospitalization: A concept analysis using the Walker & Avant Method
Authors: Munsterman Ellen , Perez Adriana , Hodgson Nancy , Cacchione Pamela 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAim(s)To evaluate the literature to inform and propose a conceptual definition for dementia friendly in the context of hospitalization.MethodsThe Walker & Avant method for concept analysis was utilized for this review.Data Sources (Include Search Dates)Initial search conducted June 2022. Repeated search conducted in February 2023. Databases for the literature search include Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and AGELINE.ResultsFive attributes of the concept of dementia friendly in the context of hospitalization were identified including: staff knowledge/education, environmental modification, person‐centred care, nursing care delivery and inclusion of family caregivers. Based on these attributes a conceptual definition is proposed.ConclusionA clarified definition for dementia friendly in the context of hospitalization will aid in understanding the concept, provide guidance for hospitals seeking to implement dementia‐friendly interventions and benefit researchers aiming to study the impact of such programs.Reporting Methodn/a.Patient or Public ContributionNo Patient or Public Contribution.
Blended learning in rural K‐12 education: Stakeholder dynamics and recommendations
Authors: Henríquez Valeria , Hilliger Isabel 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundWith the growing integration of technology in education, the adoption of blended learning (b‐learning) has gained attention. B‐learning combines traditional classroom teaching with online components, holding potential to enhance student outcomes and educational efficiency. Yet, current research predominantly concentrates on higher education institutions in urban areas, creating a void in understanding its impact on K‐12 education, particularly in rural settings.ObjectivesThis qualitative study aims to propose recommendations for successful implementation of blended learning in rural K‐12 areas by addressing the key stakeholders influencing its adoption and identifying the main factors affecting its success.MethodsWe performed a content analysis of grey literature documents detailing the implementation of b‐learning in K‐12 education. Additionally, interviews with crucial stakeholders such as teachers, principals, and experts in rural schools in South America provide insights into the challenges and prospects of b‐learning adoption in these contexts.Results and ConclusionsThe study identifies pivotal stakeholders for effective b‐learning implementation, outlining their roles and addressing challenges inherent in rural settings. Recommendations for enhancing b‐learning's implementation in developing countries are also proposed. The research underscores the significance of involving diverse stakeholders such as governmental bodies, school leaders, educators, students, and families to ensure a holistic and efficient approach to blended learning.
Durable pulmonary vein isolation with optimized high‐power and very high‐power short‐duration temperature‐controlled ablation: A step‐by‐step guide
Authors: De Potter Tom J. R. , De Becker Benjamin , Duytschaever Mattias 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIntroductionThrough systematic scientific rigor, the CLOSE guided workflow was developed and has been shown to improve pulmonary vein isolation durability. However, this technique was developed at a time when using power‐controlled ablation catheters with conventional power ranges was the norm. There has been increased adoption of a high‐power and very high‐power short‐duration ablation practice propelled by the availability of the temperature‐controlled radiofrequency QDOT MICRO catheter.MethodsThere are fundamental differences in biophysics between very high‐powered temperature guided ablation and conventional ablation strategy that may impact patient outcomes. The catheter's design and ablation modes offer flexibility in technique while accommodating the individual operator's clinical discretion and preference to deliver a durable, transmural, and contiguous lesion set.ResultsHere, we provide recommendations for 3 different workflows using the QDOT MICRO catheter in a step‐by‐step manner for pulmonary vein isolation based on our cumulative experience as early adopters of the technology and the data available in the scientific literature.ConclusionsWith standardization, temperature‐controlled ablation with the QDOT MICRO catheter provides operators the flexibility of implementing different ablation strategies to ensure durable contiguous pulmonary vein isolation depending on patient characteristics.
Glucose metabolism partially regulates β‐cell function through epigenomic changes
Authors: Kim Yong Kyung , Won Kyu Chang , Sussel Lori 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe β‐cell relies predominantly on glucose utilization to generate adenosine triphosphate, which is crucial for both cell viability and insulin secretion. The β‐cell has evolved remarkable metabolic flexibility to productively respond to shifts in environmental conditions and changes in glucose availability. Although these adaptive responses are important for maintaining optimal cellular function, there is emerging evidence that the resulting changes in cellular metabolites can impact the epigenome, causing transient and lasting alterations in gene expression. This review explores the intricate interplay between metabolism and the epigenome, providing valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms leading to β‐cell dysfunction in diabetes. Understanding these mechanisms will be critical for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to preserve and enhance β‐cell function, offering potential avenues for interventions to improve glycemic control in individuals with diabetes.
Patterns of initial distant metastases in 151 patients undergoing surveillance for treated Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Kim Emily Y. , Liu Mofei , Giobbie‐Hurder Anita , Bahar Furkan , Khaddour Karam , Silk Ann W. , Thakuria Manisha 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundMerkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is associated with high rates of recurrence and distant metastatic progression. Current guidelines for surveillance imaging are not evidence based. Better characterization of the pattern of distant metastatic spread will better inform surveillance and facilitate earlier detection of metastases.ObjectivesThis retrospective study aimed to assess potential relationships between primary tumour site and site of initial distant metastasis, time to distant metastasis, overall survival (OS) and MCC‐specific death (MSD).MethodsPatients with local or regional (Stage I–III) disease who were treated with curative intent and progressed to Stage IV were included in this study (n = 151). Fisher's exact test was used to assess differences in patterns of initial distant metastases based on primary tumour site. Time to initial distant metastasis was calculated from date of MCC diagnosis. OS and MSD were calculated from date of initial distant metastasis to date of death from any or MCC‐related causes, respectively.ResultsOf 151 patients included in analysis, 89 (58.9%) had a single initial distant metastatic site, and 62 (41.1%) had multiple sites. Patients with upper limb primary tumours were significantly less likely to develop distant lymph node or liver metastases (p = 0.02 and 0.04, respectively). Median time to distant metastasis was 11 months (IQR 6.7–17.9 months). Median OS was 15.3 months, and was shorter for patients with liver (7.0 months, p = 0.0004) or bone metastases (8.9 months, p < 0.0001). Using skin/soft tissue metastasis as a reference group, patients with multiple metastatic sites had significantly higher hazards of MSD (HR = 3.46 univariate, 3.77 multivariate analysis). Time to distant metastasis, OS and MSD did not differ by viral status.ConclusionSites of initial distant metastasis are related to primary tumour sites and survival outcomes. Because patients often have multiple initial metastases, full‐body cross‐sectional rather than region‐specific imaging may facilitate earlier detection of metastatic disease.
How does the JOBS act affect the rule 144A market?
Authors: Cai Kelly , Zhu Hui 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn this article, we examine the effects of Title II of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act on the cost and issue size of Rule 144 debts for a sample from 2002 to 2019. We find that after the enactment of the JOBS Act, the average cost (issue size) of the Rule 144 A offers decreases (increases) significantly. The findings are robust after controlling for issue‐, issuer‐, and country‐specific characteristics as well as market conditions. Evidence based on the propensity‐score‐matched sample, including public debt issues, subsample analyses, difference‐in‐differences tests, and alternative event windows, further shows that domestic firms benefit more from the JOBS Act as they have a greater reduction in the cost of debt and increase in the issue size. Overall, our results are consistent with the increased investor base hypothesis and suggest that Title II of the JOBS Act satisfies Congress's goal of making it more cost efficient for Rule 144 A issuers.
Individuals who have been infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 remain with lowered taste and smell sensory‐processing sensitivity: A case study
Authors: Santos Betsy Gois , Minim Valéria Paula Rodrigues , Lima Filho Tarcísio , Della Lucia Suzana Maria 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis research aimed to investigate the occurrence and prevalence of possible changes in the sensory perception of individuals who presented total or partial loss of smell or taste when infected by SARS‐CoV‐2, comparing the results with those of individuals who were not diagnosed with the disease and did not show typical symptoms of the infection. One hundred volunteers were recruited, of whom 50 were from the group of people who had COVID‐19 and had signs of smell or taste dysfunction (COVID group), and 50 were from the group of people who did not have the disease and did not show symptoms of the disease (Control group). Gustatory tests were performed to evaluate four primary tastes: sweet, salty, sour, and bitter, and olfactory tests were performed to assess odors: coffee, pineapple, lime, and cinnamon. To determine the detection and recognition thresholds, three‐alternative forced‐choice sessions of tastes and odors were carried out, and intensity scales were used to verify the sensory perception of the participants. Significant differences were confirmed between the groups (Control and COVID) for the detection and recognition thresholds for all tastes and odors. Sour taste was significantly affected in terms of detection and recognition, suggesting that COVID group shows lower sensitivity concerning this taste. Pineapple odor was the most difficult of being recognized by COVID group. The intensity attributed to the stimuli by the COVID group were lower than those of the Control group and differed statistically at the highest concentrations. Data show that individuals in COVID group remained with gustatory and olfactory alterations in sensitivity, detection, and recognition capacity.Practical ApplicationsThis research demonstrated the prevalence of symptoms of sensory‐processing disorders related to gustatory and/or olfactory functions in individuals who tested positive for COVID‐19, even after been cured of the infection. They had sensory alterations in terms of detection and recognition capacity, as well as sensitivity. In practice, several factors associated with quality of life are impaired due to sensory‐processing disorders, such as food, personal hygiene, safety, and physical or mental illnesses, which lead to a necessity of monitor these individuals as these factors are related to public health.
Predictors of engagement in screening for a hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment trial in a rural Appalachian community
Authors: Havens Jennifer R. , Lofwall Michelle R. , Young April M. , Staton Michele , Schaninger Takako , Fraser Hannah , Vickerman Peter , Walsh Sharon L. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAn HCV treatment trial was initiated in September 2019 to address the opioid/hepatitis C virus (HCV) syndemic in rural Kentucky. The focus of the current analysis is on participation in diagnostic screening for the trial. Initial eligibility (≥18 years of age, county resident) was established by phone followed by in‐person HCV viremia testing. 900 rural residents met the inclusion criteria and comprised the analytic sample. Generalized linear models were specified to estimate the relative risk of non‐attendance at the in‐person visit determining HCV eligibility. Approximately one‐quarter (22.1%) of scheduled participants were no‐shows. People who inject drugs were no more likely than people not injecting drugs to be a no‐show; however, participants ≤35 years of age were significantly less likely to attend. While the median time between phone screening and scheduled in‐person screening was only 2 days, each additional day increased the odds of no‐show by 3% (95% confidence interval: 2%–3%). Finally, unknown HCV status predicted no‐show even after adjustment for age, gender, days between screenings and injection status. We found that drug injection did not predict no‐show, further justifying expanded access to HCV treatment among people who inject drugs. Those 35 years and younger were more likely to no‐show, suggesting that younger individuals may require targeted strategies for increasing testing and treatment uptake. Finally, streamlining the treatment cascade may also improve outcomes, as participants in the current study were more likely to attend if there were fewer days between phone screening and scheduled in‐person screening.
Environmental radon, fracking wells, and lymphoma in dogs
Authors: Tindle Ashleigh N. , Braman Samantha L. , Swafford Brenna M. , Trepanier Lauren A. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundMulticentric lymphoma (ML) in dogs resembles non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in humans. Human NHL is associated with multiple environmental exposures, including to radon and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).Hypothesis/ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to determine whether ML in dogs was associated with environmental radon or proximity to horizontal oil and drilling (fracking), a source of VOC pollution.MethodsWe identified dogs from the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study that developed ML (n = 52) along with matched controls (n = 104). Dog home addresses were categorized by Environmental Protection Agency radon zone and average residential radon by county, as well as by distance from fracking and associated wastewater wells.ResultsWe found no significant differences in county level radon measurements. Individual household radon measurements were not available. There was no difference in residential proximity to active fracking wells between dogs with ML and unaffected dogs. While dogs with ML lived closer to wastewater wells (123 vs 206 km; P = .01), there was no difference in the percentage of cases vs controls that lived in close proximity (20 km) to a fracking well (11.5% for cases, 6.7% for controls; OR 1.81, 95% CI 0.55 to 5.22; P = .36), or a wastewater well (6.7% for cases, 4.4% for controls; P > .99).Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceThese data suggest that more proximate sources of chemical exposures need to be assessed in dogs with ML, including measurements of individual household radon and household VOC concentrations.
The Role of the Gulf in the Longue Durée Of China's Foreign Policy
Authors: Fardella Enrico , She Gangzheng 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis article examines the evolution of China's policy toward the Persian Gulf, linking its contemporary strategies to its historical principles of diplomacy, particularly those rooted in Maoism. It first outlines a conceptual framework that connects China's Gulf policies to the enduring Maoist tradition in its foreign policy. The analysis then delves into Mao Zedong's theory of intermediate zones and its influence on China's strategic posture in the Middle East from the mid‐20th century to today. The focus shifts to the increasing importance of the region, especially the Gulf, in the current iteration of China's intermediate‐zones strategy. Situating China's policies within the context of Mao's anti‐hegemonic stance and the concept of intermediate zones provides a nuanced perspective on the Chinese approach to the Middle East. The authors argue that China's longstanding anti‐hegemonic strategy has hindered the development of a more independent and assertive regional policy. However, they suggest that the recent intensification of the Sino‐American rivalry, the perceived decline in US regional influence, and the “new centrality” of the Persian Gulf may prompt China to adopt a more proactive role in the region, moving beyond its traditional strategy of active defense. This article is part of a special issue examining the responses of Gulf countries to rising Sino‐American competition, edited by Andrea Ghiselli, Anoushiravan Ehteshami, and Enrico Fardella.
Drought increases Norway spruce susceptibility to the Eurasian spruce bark beetle and its associated fungi
Authors: Netherer Sigrid , Lehmanski Linda , Bachlehner Albert , Rosner Sabine , Savi Tadeja , Schmidt Axel , Huang Jianbei , Paiva Maria Rosa , Mateus Eduardo , Hartmann Henrik , Gershenzon Jonathan 
Published: March 2024

Summary

Drought affects the complex interactions between Norway spruce, the bark beetle Ips typographus and associated microorganisms. We investigated the interplay of tree water status, defense and carbohydrate reserves with the incidence of bark beetle attack and infection of associated fungi in mature spruce trees.

We installed roofs to induce a 2‐yr moderate drought in a managed spruce stand to examine a maximum of 10 roof and 10 control trees for resin flow (RF), predawn twig water potentials, terpene, phenolic and carbohydrate bark concentrations, and bark beetle borings in field bioassays before and after inoculation with Endoconidiophora polonica and Grosmannia penicillata.

Drought‐stressed trees showed more attacks and significantly longer fungal lesions than controls, but maintained terpene resin defenses at predrought levels. Reduced RF and lower mono‐ and diterpene, but not phenolic concentrations were linked with increased host selection. Bark beetle attack and fungi stimulated chemical defenses, yet G. penicillata reduced phenolic and carbohydrate contents.

Chemical defenses did not decrease under mild, prolonged drought in our simulated small‐scale biotic infestations. However, during natural mass attacks, reductions in carbon fixation under drought, in combination with fungal consumption of carbohydrates, may deplete tree defenses and facilitate colonization by I. typographus.
Convergent and/or parallel evolution of RNA‐binding proteins in angiosperms after polyploidization
Authors: Guo Liangyu , Wang Shuo , Jiao Xi , Ye Xiaoxue , Deng Deyin , Liu Hua , Li Yan , Van de Peer Yves , Wu Wenwu 
Published: March 2024

Summary

Increasing studies suggest that the biased retention of stress‐related transcription factors (TFs) after whole‐genome duplications (WGDs) could rewire gene transcriptional networks, facilitating plant adaptation to challenging environments. However, the role of posttranscriptional factors (e.g. RNA‐binding proteins, RBPs) following WGDs has been largely ignored.

Uncovering thousands of RBPs in 21 representative angiosperm species, we integrate genomic, transcriptomic, regulatomic, and paleotemperature datasets to unravel their evolutionary trajectories and roles in adapting to challenging environments.

We reveal functional enrichments of RBP genes in stress responses and identify their convergent retention across diverse angiosperms from independent WGDs, coinciding with global cooling periods. Numerous RBP duplicates derived from WGDs are then identified as cold‐induced. A significant overlap of 29 orthogroups between WGD‐derived and cold‐induced RBP genes across diverse angiosperms highlights a correlation between WGD and cold stress. Notably, we unveil an orthogroup (Glycine‐rich RNA‐binding Proteins 7/8, GRP7/8) and relevant TF duplicates (CCA1/LHY, RVE4/8, CBF2/4, etc.), co‐retained in different angiosperms post‐WGDs. Finally, we illustrate their roles in rewiring circadian and cold‐regulatory networks at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels during global cooling.

Altogether, we underline the adaptive evolution of RBPs in angiosperms after WGDs during global cooling, improving our understanding of plants surviving periods of environmental turmoil.
The range of outcomes and outcome measurement instruments collected in multisectoral community‐based obesity prevention interventions in children: A systematic review
Authors: Sultana Marufa , Nichols Melanie , Jacobs Jane , Karacabeyli Derin , Allender Steven , Novotny Rachel , Brown Vicki 
Published: March 2024

SummaryMulticomponent and multisectoral community‐based interventions (CBIs) have proven potential in preventing overweight and obesity in children. Synthesizing evidence on the outcomes collected and reported in such CBIs is critical for the evidence of effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness. This systematic review aimed to identify the range of outcomes and outcome measurement instruments collected and reported in multisectoral and multicomponent CBIs for obesity prevention in children. A systematic search updated an existing review and extended the search to 11 academic databases (2017–2023) and gray literature. Outcomes were classified into outcome domains, and common measurement instruments were summarized. Seventeen outcome domains from 140 unique outcomes were identified from 45 included interventions reported in 120 studies. The most frequently collected outcome domains included anthropometry and body composition (91% of included interventions), physical activity (84%), dietary intake (71%), environmental (71%), and sedentary behavior (62%). The most frequently collected outcomes from each of these domains included body mass index (89%), physical activity (73%), fruit and vegetable intake (58%), school environment (42%), and screen time (58%). Outcome measurement instruments varied, particularly for behavioral outcomes. Standardization of reported outcomes and measurement instruments is recommended to facilitate data harmonization and support quantifying broader benefits of CBIs for obesity prevention.