bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mitigating risks in public procurement
Authors: Paraskeva Stella , Tsoulfas Giannis T. 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This study aims to examine the challenges and risks in public procurement, focusing on Greece’s context within the EU framework. It seeks to provide guidance on mitigating potential risks throughout different stages of public procurement by leveraging the knowledge of Greek professionals and existing literature. The research explores the implementation of the national public procurement plan in Greece, aiming to accelerate contract awards, reduce bureaucracy, promote competition and encourage cost-effectiveness among contracting authorities.

Design/methodology/approach
The study uses a qualitative approach, combining a literature review with expert interviews. Greek professionals with extensive experience in public procurement were consulted to gather insights on current practices, challenges and risk mitigation strategies. The research also analyzes EU public procurement strategies and their implementation in Greece. This mixed-method approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the public procurement landscape, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical insights from industry experts.

Findings
The research reveals significant improvements in Greece’s public procurement sector despite persistent irregularities and challenges. Key findings include the need for increased transparency, professionalization of sector staff, support for SMEs and enhanced digitization. The study identifies specific risks at various stages of the procurement process and proposes mitigation strategies. It also highlights the importance of implementing the national public procurement plan to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles and promote competition and cost-effectiveness.

Social implications
Effective public procurement management has far-reaching social implications. By improving the quality and efficiency of public spending, it can enhance public services and infrastructure, ultimately benefiting citizens’ quality of life. Increased transparency and fair competition can foster trust between citizens and government, promoting a culture of accountability. Supporting SMEs in public procurement can stimulate economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, promoting sustainability and innovation through procurement practices can contribute to broader societal goals such as environmental protection and technological advancement.

Originality/value
This study provides a unique perspective on public procurement challenges and risk management in Greece within the EU context. By combining insights from experienced Greek professionals with a comprehensive literature review, it offers practical, context-specific guidance for risk mitigation in public procurement. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on public procurement reform in EU member states, particularly those facing similar challenges to Greece. Its findings and recommendations can inform policy-making, improve procurement practices and enhance the overall effectiveness of public spending in Greece and potentially other EU countries.
Exploring the adoption of total quality management practices on hospital governance: evidence from Morocco
Authors: Msatfa Nabila , Baidani Aziz , Chebabe Milouda , Msatfa Zouheir , Hilali Abderraouf 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aims to explore the integration and impact of total quality management (TQM) practices within the governance of Moroccan hospitals, identifying the main themes and challenges associated with their implementation and suggesting potential benefits.Design/methodology/approachEmploying a qualitative methodology, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals across various Moroccan hospitals. Data were analyzed using Reinert’s classification method to extract thematic clusters, which were then visually represented through similarity analysis.FindingsThe results from our study on TQM within Moroccan healthcare institutions resonate with findings from international research, underscoring the universal principles and challenges of TQM in healthcare settings. Alsalamah (2023) found that a variety of TQM practices, notably customer focus and continuous improvement, are intricately linked with employee satisfaction, echoing the importance of these practices for effective healthcare delivery as identified in our research.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the existing literature by providing a context-specific examination of TQM practices within Moroccan hospitals, offering a perspective on the challenges and benefits of quality management in a developing country’s healthcare system. The findings present actionable insights for healthcare administrators and policymakers in Morocco.
The impact of antibiotic therapy in psoriasis patients with active streptococcal infection: A prospective study
Authors: Bonciani D. , Della Bella C. , Corrà A. , Galano A. , Vaggelli G. , Tapinassi S. , Grassi A. , Mantengoli E. , Coi A. , Quintarelli L. , Mariotti E. B. , Aimo C. , Ruffo di Calabria V. , Garufi E. , Volpi V. , Verdelli A. , Rossolini G. M. , Bartoloni A. , D'Elios M. M. , Caproni M. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThe association between psoriasis and streptococcal infection has been widely explored in both children and adults. However, the exact impact of Streptococcus pharyngeal infection on the course of psoriasis is not fully comprehended. This study explored the impact of Streptococcus pharyngeal infection on psoriasis and investigated the effectiveness of systemic antibiotic therapy in conjunction with standard topical treatment for psoriatic patients with concomitant streptococcal throat infection. The research involved 115 patients with mild‐to‐moderate psoriasis, clinically assessed using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Patients with active streptococcal infection were administered adjunctive systemic antibiotic therapy along with standard local treatment for psoriasis, while psoriasis patients without evidence of infection received the local topical treatment only. Streptococcal infections were more common in psoriasis patients compared to healthy controls. A group of psoriasis patients with active streptococcal throat infections, treated with antibiotics in addition to standard topical psoriasis therapy, did not show any difference in PASI score reduction compared to those without evidence of active infection. While our study did not show a statistically significant reduction in PASI scores in psoriasis patients with streptococcal throat infections treated with antibiotics, it highlights the complex interaction between infection and psoriasis. Larger studies with longer follow‐up may better clarify this relationship, contributing to stronger evidence for or against the use of antibiotics in managing psoriasis triggered by streptococcal infections.
Bacterial Diversity of Marine Biofilm Communities in Terra Nova Bay (Antarctica) by Culture‐Dependent and ‐Independent Approaches
Authors: Melissa Bisaccia , Elisa Binda , Gabriella Caruso , Maurizio Azzaro , Ombretta Dell' Acqua , Andrea Di Cesare , Eckert Ester Maria , Flavia Marinelli 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTApplying both culture‐independent and ‐dependent approaches, bacterial diversity of marine biofilm communities colonising polyvinyl chloride panels submerged in Terra Nova Bay (Ross Sea, Antarctica) was investigated. Panels were deployed in two sites subjected to a different degree of anthropogenic impact (Road Bay [RB] impacted site and Punta Stocchino [PTS] control site). Biofilm samples were collected after 3 or 12 months to evaluate both short‐ and long‐term microbial colonisation. Taxonomic composition of the microbial community was studied by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Proteobacteria was the predominant phylum, followed by Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Verrucomicrobia and Firmicutes. Impacted RB biofilms were found to contain a relevant fraction of potentially pathogenic bacterial genera, accounting for 27.49% of the whole community. A total of 86 psychrotolerant bacterial strains were isolated from the biofilm samples using culture‐dependent techniques designed to enrich in Actinobacteria. These strains were assigned to three different phyla: Actinobacteria (54.65%), Firmicutes (32.56%) and Proteobacteria (12.79%). 2.73% of genera identified by metabarcoding were recovered also through cultivation, while 11 additional genera were uniquely yielded by cultivation. Functional screening of the isolates revealed their hydrolytic and oxidative enzyme activity patterns, giving new insights into the metabolic and biotechnological potential of microbial biofilm communities in Terra Nova Bay seawater.
The Rise of Social Media and the Fall in Mental Well‐Being Among Young Australians
Authors: Leigh Andrew , Robson Stephen 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTUsing multiple sources, we document a substantial worsening in the mental well‐being of Australians aged 15–24 years, as measured by surveys, self‐harm hospitalisations and suicide deaths. The shift began around 2007–2010 and is worse for young women than for young men. Although several factors could be to blame, we present six pieces of evidence suggesting that smartphones and social media may have played a causal role in damaging the mental health of young Australians.
Unlocking the potential of l‐α‐glycerylphosphorylcholine in the food industry: From safety approvals to market prospects
Authors: Cao Jun , Su Erzheng 
Published: February 2025

AbstractWith the exacerbation of global population aging, age‐related neurodegenerative disorders have been posing an increasing public health concern. l‐α‐Glycerylphosphorylcholine (l‐α‐GPC) has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential for mental health‐related disorders and possesses promising market prospects. Recently, l‐α‐GPC has been successively approved as a new food resource in Canada (2023) and in China (2024). These policies pointed out the recognized safety and utility of l‐α‐GPC. The utilization of l‐α‐GPC in dietary supplements and health foods could be a convenient option for early intervention strategies to potentially delay or mitigate the progression of neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, other unique nutritional benefits of l‐α‐GPC have been highlighted, further expanding its application in food industry. Encouraged by the policy incentives, there is likely to be a new upsurge in the research interest surrounding l‐α‐GPC. To fully capitalize on these emerging opportunities, we present a comprehensive review of l‐α‐GPC. The chemical properties, pharmacological characteristics, safety assessments, and preparation methods of l‐α‐GPC were summarized. A brief outlook on the future perspectives and unsolved challenges was also proposed.
Advancements in photodynamic inactivation: A comprehensive review of photosensitizers, mechanisms, and applications in food area
Authors: Li Kexin , Ru Yibo , Zheng Hao , Qin Xiaojie , Li Zhuosi , Xia Xuejuan , Dong Qingli , Ma Yue 
Published: February 2025

AbstractFood microbial contamination results in serious food safety issues and numerous food loss and waste, presenting one of the most significant challenges facing the global food system. Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) technology, which combines light and photosensitizers (PS) to provide antimicrobial effects, is an ideal nonthermal antimicrobial technique for the food industry. This review provides a comprehensive overview of PDI technology, beginning with the fundamental photoactivation principles of PS and the pathways of photoinduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. PS is the most critical factor affecting PDI efficiency, which is categorized into three types: organic, metal oxide‐, and carbon‐based. This review systemically summarizes the photophysical properties, in vitro PDI performances, potential enhancement strategies, and the advantages and limitations of each type of PS. Furthermore, the antimicrobial mechanisms of the PDI technologies are analyzed at both microscopic and molecular levels. Finally, the current applications of PDI in various food systems are discussed, along with the associated challenges and opportunities. Overall, this review offers crucial insights into optimizing and advancing PDI technology, highlighting key challenges and suggesting future research directions to enhance the effectiveness and scalability of PDI for diverse food applications.
Exploring the larvicidal potential and phytochemical composition of Solanum incanum extracts: Insights from molecular docking and GC–MS analysis
Authors: Abutaha Nael , Al‐mekhlafi Fahd A. , Almoutiri Nawaf.D. , Wadaan Mohamed A. , Al‐Khalifa Mohammed S. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractDespite continuous efforts to control mosquito populations and disease vectors, they remain prevalent globally and pose significant health risks. Botanicals have garnered increasing attention as alternatives to synthetic insecticides due to their broad‐spectrum insecticidal properties, biodegradability, and environmental compatibility. This study aimed to evaluate the larvicidal efficacy of Solanum incanum Soxhlet extracts using various solvents. Additionally, we conducted a phytochemical analysis of the methanol extracts using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and performed molecular docking studies. The methanol extract of S. incanum demonstrated significant larvicidal activity, with LC50 values of 266.75, 214.52, and 90.15 μg/mL at 24, 48, and 72 hours post‐treatment, respectively. GC–MS analysis identified several compounds in the methanol extract, with trans‐9‐Octadecenoic acid, pentyl ester (17.99%) and propanoic acid, 2‐(3‐acetoxy‐4,4,14‐trimethylandrost‐8‐en‐17‐yl) (14.42%) being the most abundant. The methanol extract exhibited the highest phenolic content, with 1.44 mg GAE/g. The IC50 values for the DPPH assay were 1.69 mg/mL for the ethyl acetate extract and 6.7 mg/mL for the methanol extract. Furthermore, molecular docking supported the findings, with propanoic acid, 2‐(3‐acetoxy‐4,4,14‐trimethylandrost‐8‐en‐17‐yl) emerging as the top compound for all targets tested, including AChE (−9.4 kcal/mol), GABA‐T (−8 kcal/mol), and ATPase (−7.9 kcal/mol). These results provide valuable insights into the potential application and development of bioinsecticides.
Sustainable extraction of carotenoids from macauba pulp and press‐cake: Use of ethyl acetate and ultrasound as optimization strategies
Authors: Guerra Danúbia Joanes Rosa , Silva Caroline Wolffel , Nascimento Amanda Lais Alves Almeida , Stringheta Paulo César , Moraes Moysés Naves de , Lucia Ceres Mattos Della , de Barros Frederico Augusto Ribeiro 
Published: February 2025

AbstractMacauba (Acrocomia aculeata) is a Brazilian palm whose pulp is rich in carotenoids and holds potential for the development of healthy foods. This study presents an innovative approach utilizing ethyl acetate, a solvent recognized as generally safe (GRAS), in conjunction with ultrasound technology, to optimize the extraction of carotenoids from both macauba pulp (MP) and its pulp press‐cake (PPC). The effects of varying time and temperature parameters (5–30 min at 25–60°C) alongside ultrasound conditions (25 and 60°C at frequencies of 25 and 45 kHz) on the extraction process were evaluated, with total carotenoid content quantified via spectrophotometry. For MP, the optimal extraction conditions were 60°C for 30 min, yielding 219.33 µg/g of carotenoids, while ultrasound at 45 kHz, under the same time/temperature, enhanced the extraction efficiency to 277.55 µg/g. In the case of PPC, ultrasound extraction achieved a carotenoid content of 124.23 µg/g. Overall, the findings indicate that elevating the temperature to 60°C favored the extraction process, while ultrasound demonstrated effective even under milder conditions. This study emphasizes the potential of ethyl acetate as a sustainable alternative to traditional toxic solvents, aligning with the growing demand for safer and more environmentally friendly practices in the extraction of bioactive compounds.Practical ApplicationThe sustainable extraction of carotenoids from macauba, a non‐conventional source, shows great potential for producing natural colorants and antioxidants in the food industry. The efficient use of ultrasound in the extraction process highlights the potential of this technology for the industry, providing an eco‐friendly and effective alternative to conventional methods.
An Innovative Anoikis Signature With Inflammatory Infiltrates in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sheng Ze‐Hao , Gong Xin‐Yi , Huang Peng‐Peng , Xu Qi‐Yu , Zhang Wen‐Jie , Sun Feng‐Bao , Song Kai‐yi , Zeng Du‐Chun 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTAimTo explore the relationship between an innovative anoikis‐related gene signature and inflammatory infiltrates in patients with osteoarthritis.MethodsGene expression profiles (GSM1248759 and GSE200843) were curated from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, followed by the construction of a protein–protein interaction network. Functional and genomic enrichment analyses were conducted using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. The CIBERSORT method was employed to investigate immune cell infiltration differences between osteoarthritic and control tissues. Additionally, the ConsensusClusterPlus package in R software was utilized to identify distinct anoikis patterns (Cluster C1 and Cluster C2) and conduct molecular biological investigations.ResultsAnalysis revealed two distinct anoikis patterns (Cluster C1 and Cluster C2), with Cluster C2 patients exhibiting varying immune cell levels compared to Cluster C1 patients. Molecular investigations identified 84 DEGs enriched in specific pathways such as adipocytokine signaling, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, ECM–receptor interaction, and the PPAR signaling pathway. qPCR experiments confirmed the elevated expression levels of specific genes, including SOD2, MAPK14, CEACM3, LAMB3, COL13A1, TLR3, NOTCH3, and KLF12, in the IL‐1β‐induced group compared with the osteoarthritis group.ConclusionThis study highlights the role of anoikis‐related genes and immune infiltration differences in osteoarthritis, enhancing our understanding of its development.
Sex differences in the effects of maternal voluntary oral Cannabis consumption on the metabolic outcomes of high‐fat diet in adult offspring
Authors: Sallam Nada A. , Peterson Colleen S. , Kamar Samaa S. , Saenz Camila , Visser Frank , Borgland Stephanie L. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBackground and PurposeGiven the recent rise in Cannabis legalisation, accessibility to Cannabis and consumption have increased during pregnancy. Therefore, there could be unintended developmental consequences. The endocannabinoid system plays a key role in fetal development and later‐life energy homeostasis. We explored the long‐term effects of maternal voluntary Cannabis consumption on the metabolic outcomes of a high‐fat diet (HFD) in adult offspring.Experimental ApproachPregnant mice voluntarily consumed Cannabis extract equivalent to 5 mg kg−1 day−1 Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) from gestational day 1.5 until postnatal day (PD) 10. Pregnancy and pup outcomes and active maternal behaviour were recorded. Male and female offspring (PD49) were placed on a 12‐week HFD or control diet; their weight gain, adiposity, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, circulating hormones and pancreatic structure were measured.Key ResultsPerinatal Cannabis exposure (PCE) pup weight was initially reduced but restored by PD16. PCE did not influence weight gain or metabolic characteristics of male mice on a HFD. PCE female but not male offspring on a HFD had reduced accumulation of adipose tissue and lower insulin, leptin and resistin independent of body weight. PCE females on control diet also showed altered basal insulin sensitivity likely because of increased glucagon levels in parallel with reduced islets of Langerhans size and enhanced gene expression of cannabinoid 2 receptors in white adipose tissue.Conclusion and ImplicationsPCE adversely affected glycaemic control in female offspring on control diet while it mitigated HFD‐induced metabolic dysfunction. This raises concerns about the long‐term effects of PCE on the metabolic health of offspring.
The Transition to Adulthood From the Perspectives of Young People With Cerebral Palsy and Their Caregivers: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Lawlor Gráinne , Ryan Aoife , Battault Olivia , Brown Laura , Peppard Derbhla , Mockler David , Spirtos Michelle 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe transition to adulthood can be a complex time in the lives of young people with cerebral palsy (CP). There is a lack of research examining this period from the perspectives of young people and their caregivers.Objective/AimsThe review sought to identify challenging experiences during the transition to adulthood from the perspectives of young people with CP and their caregivers and to examine factors that acted as barriers and enablers to positive transition outcomes.MethodsA systematic literature review of peer‐reviewed, empirical studies was completed. Thirteen articles were extracted and analysed using a narrative synthesis approach.ResultsThe findings identified challenges for the young people in the areas of independent living, sexuality and relationships, navigating health and social care systems, feeling different from their peers and increasing autonomy. Barriers contributing to negative experiences included overprotective parents and a lack of resources. Greater motor ability, supportive parents and knowledgeable healthcare practitioners enabled positive transition outcomes.ConclusionsThe transition to adulthood presents multiple challenges as perceived by young people with CP and their caregivers. Both parties require greater support to address these challenges during this time. Further research is required to develop interventions that can support this transition experience.
The Association Between Periodontal Status, Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life and Self‐Rated Oral Health in Socially Underprivileged Adolescents
Authors: Ripardo Andréia Coelho Gomes , Queiroz Adriana Corrêa de , Herkrath Ana Paula Corrêa de Queiroz , Herkrath Fernando José , Rebelo Vieira Janete Maria , Pereira Juliana Vianna , Rebelo Maria Augusta Bessa , Vettore Mario Vianna 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo assess the associations between periodontal conditions, dental caries, sex, psychosocial factors, socioeconomic status, oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL), and self‐rated oral health among adolescents living in socially deprived neighbourhoods.MethodsA school‐based survey was conducted in a random sample of 406 12‐year‐old adolescents in 11 neighbourhoods in the East region of Manaus, Brazil. Gingival status, dental calculus (Community Periodontal Index), and dental caries (DMFT index) were registered through clinical examinations. Adolescents self‐completed questionnaires to assess psychosocial factors (self‐esteem, sense of coherence, and oral health beliefs), socioeconomic status (family income, parent's schooling, number of goods, and house crowding), oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) (CPQ11–14), and self‐rated oral health. Direct and indirect relationships between variables were tested using structural equation modelling guided by the Wilson and Cleary model.ResultsGreater gingival bleeding was directly associated with worse self‐rated oral health. Poor OHRQoL was directly linked to the number of teeth with dental calculus, more teeth with dental caries experience, and worse psychosocial factors. Worse socioeconomic status and dental calculus were associated with gingival bleeding. Dental calculus and socioeconomic status were indirectly associated with self‐rated oral health via gingival status. OHRQoL mediated the association of dental caries experience and psychosocial factors with self‐rated oral health.ConclusionsGingival bleeding and dental calculus may negatively affect self‐reported oral health in adolescents. Socioeconomic status and psychosocial factors were also relevant determinants for oral health in this age group.