bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prefrontal tDCS for improving mental health and cognitive deficits in patients with Multiple Sclerosis: a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study
Authors: Zakibakhsh Nasim , Basharpoor Sajjad , Ghalyanchi Langroodi Hamidreza , Narimani Mohammad , Nitsche Michael A , Salehinejad Mohammad Ali 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundMultiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease associated with physical disability, psychological impairment, and cognitive dysfunctions. Consequently, the disease burden is substantial, and treatment choices are limited. In this randomized, double-blind study, we used repeated prefrontal electrical stimulation and assessed mental health-related variables (including quality of life, sleep, psychological distress) and cognitive dysfunctions (psychomotor speed, working memory, attention/vigilance) in 40 patients with MS.MethodsThe patients were randomly assigned (block randomization method) to two groups of sham (n=20), or 1.5-mA (n=20) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (F3) and right frontopolar cortex (Fp2) with anodal and cathodal stimulation respectively (electrode size: 25 cm2). The treatment included 10 sessions of 20 minutes stimulation delivered every other day. Outcome measures were quality of life, sleep quality, psychological distress, and performance on a neuropsychological test battery dedicated to cognitive dysfunctions in MS (psychomotor speed, working memory, and attention). All outcome measures were examined pre-intervention and post-intervention. Both patients and technicians delivering the stimulation were unaware of the study hypotheses and the type of stimulation being used.ResultsThe active protocol significantly improved quality of life and reduced sleep difficulties and psychological distress compared to the sham group. The active protocol, furthermore, improved psychomotor speed, attention and vigilance, and some aspects of working memory performance compared to the sham protocol. Improvement in mental health outcome measures was significantly associated with better cognitive performance.ConclusionsModulation of prefrontal regions with tDCS ameliorates secondary clinical symptoms and results in beneficial cognitive effects in patients with MS. These results support applying prefrontal tDCS in larger trials for improving mental health and cognitive dysfunctions in MS.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT06401928
Phagocytosis-driven neurodegeneration through opposing roles of an ABC transporter in neurons and phagocytes
Authors: Chen Xinchen , Wang Bei , Sarkar Ankita , Huang Zixian , Ruiz Nicolas Vergara , Yeung Ann T. , Chen Rachael , Han Chun 
Published: May 2024

SUMMARYLipid homeostasis is critical to the survival of neurons. Lipid transporters from the ATP-binding cassette A (ABCA) subfamily are important regulators of lipid trafficking and are associated with multiple neurodegenerative diseases. How ABCA transporters regulate specific aspects of lipid homeostasis to impact neurodegeneration is an outstanding question. Here we report that theDrosophilaABCA protein Engulfment ABC Transporter in the ovary (Eato) contributes to phagocytosis-dependent neurodegeneration by playing two opposing roles in neurons and nearby phagocytes: In neurons, Eato prevents dendrites and axons from being attacked and engulfed by neighboring phagocytes; in phagocytes, however, Eato enhances the ability of these cells to detect neurons as engulfment targets. Thus,Eatodeficiency in neurons alone results in severe phagocytosis-dependent dendrite and axon degeneration, whereas removingEatofrom both neurons and phagocytes completely rescues the neurite degeneration. Surprisingly, Eato exerts its functions in both neurons and phagocytes by suppressing the effects of the eat-me signal phosphatidylserine (PS) exposed on the cell surface. Interestingly, multiple human andC. elegansABCA homologs can compensate for the loss ofEatoin phagocytes but not in neurons, suggesting both conserved and cell type-specific activities of these ABCA proteins. These results reveal how ABCA proteins participate in neurodegeneration by regulating PS homeostasis and imply possible mechanisms of neuron-phagocyte interactions in neurodegenerative diseases.
Evolution of Fentanyl Prescription Patterns and Administration Routes in Salamanca, Spain: A Comprehensive Analysis from 2011 to 2022
Authors: Torres-Bueno Cristina , Sánchez-Barba Mercedes , Miron-Canelo Jose-Antonio , Gonzalez-Nunez Veronica 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe escalating use of opioids poses a multifaceted challenge, contributing to social, health, and economic crises. In Spain, a notable surge in the medical prescription of opioids in recent years has been observed. In response to this growing concern, the Spanish Agency for the Regulation of Medicines and Healthcare Products issued an alert in 2018 regarding the misuse of opioids.ObjectiveThe aim of this research work was to assess the consumption rate of fentanyl, categorized by the different administration routes, in the province of Salamanca (Spain) spanning the years 2011 to 2022, and also to compare this local trend with the national scenario and with data published in the United States.Material and MethodsData on fentanyl consumption in the province of Salamanca, measured in defined daily doses (DDD), were sourced from the Regional Health System Registry in Castilla y León for each administration route from 2011 to 2022. Doses per inhabitant per day (DHD) were calculated, and interannual variations, as well as consumption rates, were subject to thorough analysis.Results and discussionThe prevalence of fentanyl use in Salamanca has surged from 1.2 DHD in 2011 to 2.56 DHD in 2022, with the transdermal system (TD) as the predominant administration route. This upward trajectory shows a positive correlation, mirroring the national trend, yet the rise in fentanyl usage is markedly lower than the reported data in the US. This finding may be attributed to an ageing population, and potentially inappropriate fentanyl prescriptions, i.e. for the management of chronic non-cancer pain and other off-label prescriptions.ConclusionThe use of fentanyl in Salamanca, particularly through transdermal systems, has doubled from 2011 to 2022, aligning with the national trend. Urgent preventive measures are imperative to prevent fentanyl misuse and moderate the observed escalation in consumption rates.
Improving collaborative innovation performance in megaprojects: a system dynamic approach
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Zhu Weina , Chen Yajiao , He Qinghua 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe development and evolution of stakeholder collaborative innovation in megaprojects is impacted by various influencing factors. The effect of influencing factors on collaborative innovation performance (CIP) in megaprojects is not a simplistic linear relationship but an iterative and non-linear relationship that requires a dynamic perspective to analyze. Therefore, this paper adopts the system dynamic (SD) approach to investigate the dynamic and interactive relationships between the CIP and the influencing factors.Design/methodology/approachThe study first develops a research framework with the system boundary of “CIP system – organizational collaboration subsystem – knowledge collaboration subsystem – strategic collaboration subsystem”. Then, the causal relationship model, the stock-flow model, and the mathematical equations were determined based on the literature review and the expert interviews. Finally, five performance improvement scenarios were designed according to the practice context of CIP in megaprojects, and simulations were performed using the Vensim PLE software to investigate the CIP from a dynamic perspective.FindingsThe findings reveal that the effect of different influencing factors on CIP grows non-linearly, with the cumulative effect becoming more pronounced as time advances. The incentive mechanism has the most significant effect, and the combined effect of multiple influencing factors has a highly significant facilitating effect on improving CIP. Strategic collaboration, organizational collaboration and knowledge collaboration are mutually conditional and reinforcing with each other, which ultimately promotes the improvement of CIP.Originality/valueThis study uncovers the inherent pattern and the interactive dynamic mechanism of factors for improving CIP in the context of megaprojects. It enriches the theoretical research in the area of collaborative innovation in megaprojects and provides practical management strategies for improving CIP.
Towards inclusive mechanization? Two-wheel tractor-based service markets in Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, and Zimbabwe
Authors: Yahaya Rabe , Daum Thomas , Tadesse Ephrem , Mupangwa Walter , Barro Albert , Matangi Dorcas , Misiko Michael , Baudron Frédéric , Awoke Bisrat Getnet , Odjo Sylvanus , Sanogo Daouda , Assefa Rahel , Kassa Abrham 
Published: May 2024

PurposeAfrican agricultural mechanization could lead to a mechanization divide, where only large farms have access to machines. Technological solutions such as scale-appropriate machines and institutional solutions like service markets offer hope for more inclusive mechanization. Two-wheel tractor-based service markets combine both technological and institutional elements, but there is limited research on their economic viability and challenges.Design/methodology/approachWe analyze the economic viability of two-wheel tractor-based service provision based on data from service providers in Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, and Zimbabwe. We also examine the institutional framework conditions for such service providers based on qualitative interviews with these service providers and stakeholders such as machinery dealers, spare parts providers, and banks.FindingsTwo-wheel tractor-based service provision is economically highly viable, largely due to multifunctionality. Post-production services such as threshing and transportation are particularly lucrative. However, the emergence and economic sustainability of service providers can be undermined by bottlenecks such as access to finance, knowledge and skills development, access to fuel and spare parts, and infrastructure problems.Originality/valueThis is the first study on the economics of two-wheel tractor-based service provider models. Past studies have focused on large four-wheel tractors, but two-wheel tractors are different in many aspects, including regarding investment costs, repair and maintenance costs, capacity, and multifunctionality.
Investigating EWOM and halal product knowledge on gen Z’s halal cosmetics purchase intentions in Pakistan
Authors: Bhutto Muhammad Yaseen , Rūtelionė Aušra , Vienažindienė Milita 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
This study aims to improve the theory of planned behavior (TPB) model by incorporating electronic word of mouth (E-WOM) as a factor influencing attitude (ATT), subjective norms (SN) and perceived behavioral control (PBC). The main goal is to study Generation Z’s intention to purchase halal cosmetics. In addition, the research examines how halal product knowledge (HPK) influences the relationships between ATT, SN, PBC and the purchase intention of halal cosmetics.

Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires from two superstores in Karachi, Pakistan, with 265 valid responses. Convergent and discriminant validity analyses were performed to ensure validity and reliability, and variable relationships were assessed using structural equation modeling.

Findings
The results revealed that EWOM significantly influences ATT, SN and PBC. ATT and PBC both significantly affect purchase intention (PI), while SN has a nonsignificant influence on PI. In addition, the study found HPK only moderates the association between ATT and PI, while moderating influence HPK does not exist in the relationship between (SN and PI) and (PBC and PI).

Research limitations/implications
This study focuses on the Halal cosmetics industry in Pakistan and explicitly targets Generation Z individuals in a particular cultural environment. The aim is to examine how applying the same research design in different sectors and countries can lead to different results. In addition, the study primarily includes Gen Z consumers of halal cosmetics. Collecting data from other generational groups for future studies, such as generations X and Y, would be interesting.

Originality/value
This research contributes to the existing literature on halal consumption by introducing the concept of E-WOM as a factor within the TPB model. This study is particularly groundbreaking as it examines how Gen Z Pakistani Muslim consumers’ behavioral intentions toward halal cosmetic products are influenced by their HPK using the TPB model. Additionally, the paper presents an extended TPB modeling framework that could be valuable to researchers, marketers and halal experts.
Success of the tender stage of Ghanaian public labor-based construction projects
Authors: Barajei Chelteau , Bamfo-Agyei Emmanuel , Antwi-Agyei Prince , Doumbia Musah Osumanu , Nyameche Mac 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The procurement reforms carried out by the Government of Ghana have led to the creation of the Public Procurement Authority and the passage of the Public Procurement (Amended) Act 2016. Nevertheless, many obstacles could prevent an open and fair competition during the procurement of works. This significantly affects the success of Ghanaian construction projects. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the factors to enhance the success of the contractor selection phase of the Ghanaian public labor-based construction project.

Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative research approach was adopted by this study. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire to 377 respondents across Ghana. The data was then analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings
This study revealed that external, project procedures and project management factors impact the Ghanaian labor-based contractor selection phase success.

Research limitations/implications
This study is limited to the contractor selection phase of Ghanaian public labor-based projects and developing nations with similar socioeconomic characteristics.

Social implications
Strict adherence to this study’s findings will enable the government to undertake more infrastructure projects to raise the standard of living for its populace.

Originality/value
Although several studies have been conducted to improve the success of construction projects in developing nations, very little focus has been placed on the success factors of the contractor selection phase of public construction projects. These findings are vital in discovering for the first-time factors influencing the success of the tender stage of public labor-based projects in Ghana and developing nations with similar socioeconomic characteristics.
Environmental, social and governance assets and diversity scores: exploring their relationship to carbon emissions in global companies
Authors: Koseoglu Mehmet Ali , Arici Hasan Evrim , Saydam Mehmet Bahri , Olorunsola Victor Oluwafemi 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe interconnected challenges of climate change and social inclusivity have placed unprecedented pressure on businesses to adopt responsible practices. While previous research has explored the individual impacts of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and diversity initiatives, there remains a dearth of comprehensive investigations into how these factors collectively influence carbon emission scores. Drawing on the legitimacy theory, we explore whether ESG and diversity scores predict global companies' carbon emission scores. As concerns about the environmental impact of businesses grow, understanding the relationships between ESG performance, diversity management, and carbon emissions becomes imperative for sustainable corporate practices.Design/methodology/approachThe primary dataset for this study includes 1,268 worldwide firm-year data for 2021. The sample is subjected to missing data examination as a component of the filtration process. Data preprocessing is performed before machine learning analysis, including verifying missing data. Our research resulted in the final sample, which includes 627 worldwide firm data from 2021. Data regarding all publicly traded companies was obtained from Refinitiv Eikon.FindingsOur findings showed that corporate carbon emission performance in global corporations is influenced by ESG performance and total diversity score.Originality/valueFirms involve in ESG as well as diversity practices to be able to achieve sustainable success. Yet, the forecasting of carbon emissions based on ESG scores and diversity scores remains inadequately established due to conflicting findings and enigmas prevalent in the literature.
Acclimation to moderate temperatures can have strong negative impacts on heat tolerance of arctic arthropods
Authors: Sørensen Jesper Givskov , Noer Natasja Krog , Kristensen Torsten Nygaard , Bahrndorff Simon 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The Arctic is impacted by some of the fastest temperature changes observed on Earth, but the impact on the terrestrial arthropod fauna is unclear. Acute physiological thermal limits of terrestrial ectotherms from high latitudes often exceed the local air temperatures, suggesting that they may be able to cope with increasing temperatures. However, knowledge on how Arctic terrestrial arthropods cope with elevated temperatures for longer periods is lacking.

Here we investigate how acclimation temperature and exposure time affect the acute physiological heat tolerance of five terrestrial arthropod species (Neomolgus littoralis, Megaphorura arctica, Nysius groenlandicus, Psammotettix lividellus and Nabis flavomarginatus) immediately after collection in Arctic and sub‐Arctic habitats.

We show that although acute heat tolerances are relatively high, even exposure to moderate (temperature span assessed ca. 3–29°C) acclimation temperatures for a 24 h period have strong negative effects on heat tolerance for four of the five species. Similarly, exposure time negatively affected heat tolerance, but depending on species and temperature.

Together our results suggest that exposure to even moderately elevated temperatures for periods of 24 h or even shorter can lead to lower acute heat tolerance for cold adapted terrestrial arthropod species from sub‐Arctic and Arctic regions. Consequently, climate change leading to extended periods of mildly elevated temperatures may have strong negative effects on these species. We argue that this aspect is currently overlooked when assessing the ability of arthropods from Arctic and sub‐Artic regions to cope with climate changes as such predictions are typically based on acute heat tolerance estimates and with the assumption of beneficial acclimation responses.

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Robust hydraulic traits correlation in woody species despite large trait variation along natural and experimental environmental gradients
Authors: Huang Ruike , Wang Ye , Duan Jie , Xi Benye , Yang Jinyan , Li Ximeng , Feng Jinchao , Choat Brendan , Tissue David T. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Hydraulic traits are major determinants of plant fitness, thus exerting control over vegetation structure, function and distribution. Yet it remains unclear whether and how hydraulic traits respond to environmental stimuli (i.e. phenotypic variation of hydraulic traits; PVHT) and if the coordination between different hydraulic traits and the trait–climate relationship are affected by PVHT.

Here, we synthesized data of PVHT (maximum hydraulic conductivity and water potential inducing 50% loss of hydraulic conductivity) and potentially related morphological and anatomical traits (e.g. sapwood density, branch Huber value, mean and hydraulic weighted conduit diameter). We analysed the magnitude, direction and source of variation of the plastic response, as well as the influence of environmental factors on trait coordination. Additionally, we compared the intra‐ and inter‐specific variation between key hydraulic traits and climate metrics (mean annual precipitation and mean annual temperature) at the site of growth, as well as across the population range.

PVHT was highly variable in both magnitude and direction, which was contingent on the environmental factor. The variation in PVHT mainly occurred at high taxonomic levels (i.e. family and genus), whereas phenology explained little variation for PVHT. Despite the high variability, trait correlation remained robust in the presence of environmental stimuli. Moreover, trait–climate relationships differed at inter‐specific and intra‐specific levels. The intra‐specific variation of hydraulic traits in most species showed no correlation with climate metrics compared with the high correlation of hydraulic traits with climate metrics across species.

Our findings suggest that the high variability of PVHT does not affect the trait correlation which may be valuable in predicting vegetation dynamics under varying environments. The distinct trait–climate relationships highlight the need to unravel the driving force of PVHT, as well as the adaptive strategy across populations.

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Performance of β‐carotene‐loaded nanostructured lipid carriers under dynamic in vitro digestion system: Influence of the emulsifier type
Authors: Lüdtke Fernanda L. , Fernandes Jean‐Michel , Gonçalves Raquel F. S. , Martins Joana T. , Berni Paulo , Ribeiro Ana P. B. , Vicente Antonio A. , Pinheiro Ana C. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractA better understanding of how emulsifier type could differently influence the behavior of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) under the gastrointestinal digestion process, as well as at the cellular level, is of utmost importance for the NLC‐based formulations’ optimization and risk assessment in the food field. In this study, NLC composed by fully hydrogenated soybean and high‐oleic sunflower oils were prepared using soy lecithin (NLC Lβ) or Tween 80 (NLC Tβ) as an emulsifier. β‐Carotene was entrapped within NLC developed as a promising strategy to overcome β‐carotene's low bioavailability and stability. The effect of emulsifier type on the digestibility of β‐carotene‐loaded NLC was evaluated using an in vitro dynamic digestion model mimicking peristalsis motion. The influence of β‐carotene‐loaded NLC on cell viability was assessed using Caco‐2 cells in vitro. NLC Tβ remained stable in the gastric compartment, presenting particle size (PS) similar to the initial NLC (PS: 245.68 and 218.18 nm, respectively), while NLC Lβ showed lower stability (PS > 1000 nm) in stomach and duodenum phases. NLC Tβ also provided high β‐carotene protection and delivery capacity (i.e., β‐carotene bioaccessibility increased 10‐fold). Based on the results of digestion studies, NLC Tβ has shown better physical stability during the passage through the in vitro dynamic gastrointestinal system than NLC Lβ. Moreover, the developed NLC did not compromise cell viability up to 25 µg/mL of β‐carotene. Thus, the NLC developed proved to be a biocompatible structure and able to incorporate and protect β‐carotene for further food applications.Practical ApplicationThe findings of this study hold significant implications for industrial applications in terms of developing nanostructured lipid carriers from natural raw materials widely available and used to produce other lipid‐based products in the food industry, as an alternative to synthetic ones. In this respect, the β‐carotene‐loaded NLC developed in this study would find a great industrial application in the food industry, which is in constant search to develop functional foods capable of increasing the bioavailability of bioactive compounds.