bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Making tourism more sustainable: empirical evidence from EU member countries
Authors: Trstenjak Ani , Tomas Žiković Ivana , Žiković Saša 
Published: December 2023

AbstractWe analyze the sustainability factors that are pertinent to the tourism industry by exploring the effects of economic, environmental and social determinants on sustainable value added (SVA) in a two-stage analysis on a sample of 27 EU countries for the 2013–2019 period. In the first stage, we determine the relative efficiency based on DEA. In the second stage, we use the obtained variables in a dynamic panel data analysis setup. Contrary to the omnipresent push for complete green and sustainable transformation we find that increased GHG emissions will lead to an initial increase in SVA as the tourism sector needs time and effort to transition from a resource-oriented to an environmental-oriented production process. Contrary to previous findings, we show that environmental policies are not effective and that environmental taxation-related policies and procedures need to be revised. Economic growth implies increased pollution as well as increased SVA, as it requires more inputs and thus consumes more natural resources. Because of this it is of utmost importance to pay more attention to the quality of economic development in order to mitigate negative environmental externalities in the tourism sector.
What factors make a municipality more involved in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals? Empirical evidence
Authors: Benito Bernardino , Guillamón María-Dolores , Ríos Ana-María 
Published: December 2023

AbstractAccording to the Institutional Theory, governments must respond to the climate and socio-economic challenges of the future by implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Moreover, in line with the Legitimacy Theory, governments need to adhere to the timetable of the 2030 Agenda to reduce social and economic disparities and avoid the serious environmental problems caused by current lifestyles. To achieve the SDGs, it is essential to engage various public and private stakeholders. Among these, local governments are particularly relevant, given the diversity of basic services they provide and their proximity to citizens. In this context, this paper aims to address the deficiencies in empirical research about the factors leading to SDG compliance in local governments. To this end, SDG compliance indices are constructed for 100 Spanish municipalities. These indices are used as the dependent variables in the research models, which are estimated using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS). The findings indicate that municipalities characterised by elevated unemployment and lower tax revenue collection tend to comply less with the SDGs. In contrast, in municipalities where citizens participate more in elections and the government is more fragmented, compliance is greater. These findings can be useful for policymakers, regulators and other public officials involved in SDG implementation, as they deepen the understanding of the conditions that favour SDG achievement.
‘Free from BFRB’: Efficacy of Self-Help Interventions for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors Conveyed via Manual or Video
Authors: Moritz Steffen , Weidinger Sarah , Schmotz Stella 
Published: December 2023

AbstractSelf-help may help fill the large treatment gap in individuals with body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs). We examined the efficacy of three self-help techniques for BFRBs: habit reversal training (HRT), decoupling (DC), and decoupling in sensu (DC-is) and also tested whether a video demonstration is more efficacious to written instructions. A total of 224 participants with at least one BFRB were randomly assigned to two intervention groups (video, manual) receiving access to all techniques or a wait-list control group (1:1:1). A 6-week follow-up assessment was conducted. The Generic Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior Scale (GBS-9) served as primary outcome. The intention-to-treat analysis showed significant improvements for the manual group compared to the wait-list control group on GBS total score and severity and impairment scores. For the per-protocol analyses (i.e., participants had at least read/watched the manual/video), 26.9% of completers in the manual group improved at least 35% in GBS compared to 23.3% (video group) and 15.9% (control). A dose–response relationship emerged for the video group. Subjective ratings by the video and manual groups did not differ; treatment satisfaction was greater for HRT and DC than for DC-is. Results suggest that the manual group showed somewhat stronger effects than the video group when usage frequency was low. With more frequent usage, improvements in the video condition increased. Future studies should investigate potential order effects of the techniques as well as add-on effects when techniques are used along with other treatment approaches.
Management of iron deficiency in women of childbearing age with oral iron intolerance: a prospective, randomised, controlled trial of three doses of an iron-whey-protein formulation
Authors: Ledwidge Mark , Ryan Fiona , Seoighe Anna , Santos-Martinez Maria Jose , Ryan Cristin , Gilmer J. G. F. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Nutritional deficit and oral iron gastrointestinal intolerance may be a common cause of iron deficiency, which can be managed by pharmacists.

Aim
To understand the prevalence of iron deficiency in women of childbearing age with a self-reported history of intolerance to oral iron and the tolerability of three doses of an iron-whey-protein formulation in the care of these women.

Method
Ferritin and haemoglobin levels were documented in women of childbearing age with oral iron gastrointestinal intolerance. In those with iron deficiency (ferritin < 30 µg/L), adherence, gastrointestinal tolerability, ferritin, transferrin saturation and haemoglobin levels were compared between their prior oral iron product and iron-whey-protein microspheres randomised to three doses (14 mg daily, 25 mg daily and 50 mg daily) for 12 weeks.

Results
Most screened women had low iron stores (128 (62.7%); ferritin < 30 µg/L), 65 (31.9%) had moderate to severe iron deficiency (ferritin < 12 µg/L) and 33 (16.2%) had iron deficiency anaemia (ferritin < 30 µg/L, haemoglobin < 12 g/dL). Amongst the 59 women who participated in the prospective clinical study of iron-whey-protein microspheres over 12 weeks, 48 (81.4%) were classified as adherent/persistent and fewer instances of gastrointestinal intolerance were reported (0.59 ± 0.91) when compared to 12 (20.3%) and (4.0 ± 2.2) respectively while taking the prior oral iron (Fisher’s Exact and T-test respectively, both p < 0.001). There was no difference in adherence or tolerability of different iron-whey-protein formulation doses. Ferritin, haemoglobin and energy levels increased significantly over 12 weeks.

Conclusion
Undiagnosed iron deficiency is common in women of childbearing age with a history of intolerance to oral iron and iron-whey-protein microspheres can improve adherence, GI tolerability, iron stores, haemoglobin and energy levels in these women.

Clinical trial registration
Clinicaltrials.gov identifier (registration includes full trial protocol): NCT04778072.
New Horizons in Hyperpolarized 13C MRI
Authors: Chaumeil Myriam M. , Bankson James A. , Brindle Kevin M. , Epstein Shdema , Gallagher Ferdia A. , Grashei Martin , Guglielmetti Caroline , Kaggie Joshua D. , Keshari Kayvan R. , Knecht Stephan , Laustsen Christoffer , Schmidt Andreas B. , Vigneron Daniel , Yen Yi-Fen , Schilling Franz 
Published: December 2023

AbstractHyperpolarization techniques significantly enhance the sensitivity of magnetic resonance (MR) and thus present fascinating new directions for research and applications with in vivo MR imaging and spectroscopy (MRI/S). Hyperpolarized 13C MRI/S, in particular, enables real-time non-invasive assessment of metabolic processes and holds great promise for a diverse range of clinical applications spanning fields like oncology, neurology, and cardiology, with a potential for improving early diagnosis of disease, patient stratification, and therapy response assessment. Despite its potential, technical challenges remain for achieving clinical translation. This paper provides an overview of the discussions that took place at the international workshop “New Horizons in Hyperpolarized 13C MRI,” in March 2023 at the Bavarian Academy of Sciences and Humanities, Munich, Germany. The workshop covered new developments, as well as future directions, in topics including polarization techniques (particularly focusing on parahydrogen-based methods), novel probes, considerations related to data acquisition and analysis, and emerging clinical applications in oncology and other fields.
Exposure time and point cloud quality prediction for active 3D imaging sensors using Gaussian process regression
Authors: Magaña Alejandro , Schneider Lukas , Benker Maximilian , Altmann Thomas , Bauer Philipp , Reinhart Gunther 
Published: December 2023

AbstractSetting an optimal image exposure is crucial for acquiring dense point clouds using 3D active optical sensor systems such as structured light sensors [structured light sensors (SLSs)] and active stereo sensors. One of the most common and seamless ways to optimize the image brightness of an image exposure is to adjust the camera’s exposure time. However, optimizing the image exposure alone is ineffective for acquiring surfaces of large-scale objects with a complex topology if a spatial understanding of the scene is neglected. Hence, the present paper proposes a data-driven approach using two Gaussian processes [Gaussian processes (GPs)] regression models to select a proper exposure time considering the nonlinear correlations between image exposure and the scene spatial relationships. To model these correlations, our study introduces first the generic synthesization of seven inputs and two target variables. Then, based on these inputs, two independent GPs are designed: one for predicting the measurement quality and one for estimating the exposure time. The performance and generalizability of both models are thoroughly evaluated using an SLS and an active stereo sensor. The evaluation demonstrated that the point cloud quality models adequately matched observations with an R2 exceeding 90%. Specifically, the models predicted point cloud quality with an root mean square error (RMSE) of 10%. Additionally, the assessment of the performance of the exposure time models showed a model fit with an R2 above 97%. The exposure time prediction accuracy, as evidenced by the RMSE values, was within 10% of the corresponding exposure time range for each sensor. The present research shows the potential and effectiveness to completely automate the assessment of a point cloud quality and the selection of exposure times with the help of data-driven models.
Diversity representation in advertising
Authors: Campbell Colin , Sands Sean , McFerran Brent , Mavrommatis Alexis 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIn this article we develop a comprehensive understanding of diverse representation in advertising. While numerous studies highlight increasing demand for diversity among some consumers, such enthusiasm is not universal. This is creating challenges for brands, some of which have faced backlash, either due to a perceived lack of authenticity in their diversity efforts or because not all consumer groups value diversity equally. Amidst these challenges, technological advancements, such as data-driven decision-making and generative AI, present both new opportunities and risks. The current literature on diverse representation in advertising, although expansive, is relatively siloed. Through a detailed eight-step process, we assess and synthesize the body of literature on diversity representation, reviewing 337 articles spanning research on age, beauty, body size, gender, LGBTQIA+ , physical and mental ability, and race and ethnicity. Our investigation offers two major contributions: a summarization of insights from the broader literature on these seven key areas of diverse representation and development of an integrated conceptual framework. Our conceptual framework details mechanisms, moderators, and outcomes that are either prevalent across the literature or can be reasonably expected to generalize across other forms of diversity. This framework not only offers a holistic perspective for academics and industry professionals but also exposes potential future research avenues.
CA-Markov chain for simulation and prediction of LULC and assessing the status of water pollution in Manzala Lake after recent development
Authors: El-Alfy Muhammad A. , Elfanagily Banan A. , Zyadah Mohamed A. , El-Emam Doaa A. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe Egyptian government recently undertook a large-scale national dredging project to improve the properties and productivity of the northern lakes. Manzala Lake has a distinctive ecological system that offers locals a variety of ecological services. This study was occurred using an integrating approach of remote sensing and Markov modeling to determine the land use/cover (LULC) change of Manzala Lake’s components. The physiochemical characteristics of the water were also measured. Six LULC classes namely; water, crops, vegetation, urban areas, bare lands, and, sabkha were detected in and around the lake in three different years (1998, 2010, and 2022). The LULC transition was studied and predicted using the CA-Markov model. The area of surface water, flooded vegetation, sabkha, and urban areas were increased by the year of 2022. The bare lands were declined more comparing with the past periods. The new developments in Manzala Lake made more changes in the LULC of lake ecosystems. Also, it is an indication to exploitation the bare areas around lakes into new urban areas. The obtained results were necessary for the revised management plan. It is essential for managing the lakes’ land resources, and vital to carefully consider the development strategies to determine how these projects will influence on the environment and biodiversity. In addition, to what extent this lake productivity will improve and help in the recovery of Egypt’s national income.
Traces of Hope from a New Transnational Well-Being Index: World Love Index
Authors: Palmieri Marco , Floridi Federica , Paoli Angela Delli , Iorio Gennaro , Martire Fabrizio , Cataldi Silvia 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe article discusses the development of a new measurement called the World Love Index, which aims to evaluate people’s capacity to care for others and the world as an indicator of well-being. Drawing inspiration from appeals by intellectuals to shift towards a new form of humanism, the proposed new index aims to mark the transition towards a new social ecology, and it emphasizes the importance of social connections and relationships. In this way, it tries to capture the challenge of the quest of hope in the post-pandemic era. The study integrates data from the Gallup World Poll and World Values Survey to create this index, focusing on dimensions like overabundance of giving and care for others. The research identifies different clusters of countries based on their orientation towards environmental concern or humanitarian support, revealing how social love varies across income levels. The study argues that focusing on social love as a measure of well-being can lead to transformative policies that emphasize community-building and solidarity, offering a new narrative of progress centered on caring for one another and the environment. Against the backdrop of the post-pandemic era’s socio-economic challenges and echoes of historical crises, the study advocates for a paradigm shift away from traditional GDP-centric metrics, advocating for a comprehensive approach to measuring well-being that considers diverse dimensions of human experience. Ultimately, the World Love Index presents an innovative way to assess societies’ propensity for compassion and offers a fresh perspective on fostering hope and transformation through community-building and caring relationships.
Tau Accumulation in the Spinal Cord Contributes to Chronic Inflammatory Pain by Upregulation of IL-1β and BDNF
Authors: Zhang Shuxia , Chen Yeru , Wang Yongjie , Wang Hongwei , Yao Dandan , Chen Gang 
Published: December 2023

AbstractMicrotubule-associated protein Tau is responsible for the stabilization of neuronal microtubules under normal physiological conditions. Much attention has been focused on Tau’s contribution to cognition, but little research has explored its role in emotions such as pain, anxiety, and depression. In the current study, we found a significant increase in the levels of p-Tau (Thr231), total Tau, IL-1β, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on day 7 after complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) injection; they were present in the vast majority of neurons in the spinal dorsal horn. Microinjection of Mapt-shRNA recombinant adeno-associated virus into the spinal dorsal cord alleviated CFA-induced inflammatory pain and inhibited CFA-induced IL-1β and BDNF upregulation. Importantly, Tau overexpression was sufficient to induce hyperalgesia by increasing the expression of IL-1β and BDNF. Furthermore, the activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta partly contributed to Tau accumulation. These findings suggest that Tau in the dorsal horn could be a promising target for chronic inflammatory pain therapy.
Calmer, Kinder, Wiser: A Novel Threefold Categorization for Mindfulness-Based Interventions
Authors: Furnell Matthew , Van Gordon William , Elander James 
Published: December 2023

AbstractMindfulness is said to be a connecting thread between an ancient philosophy on the one hand and a contemporary psychological practice on the other. However, some contemporary mindfulness practices have arguably become so disconnected from their roots in Buddhist ethics and wisdom principles that the fundamental essence of the practice is no longer recognisable. It appears that when mindfulness is disconnected from its Buddhist ethical and wisdom-based foundations, being applied as a purely concentrative practice, it can yield adverse effects (such as decreased prosocial behaviour, increased self-centredness, and reduced psychological well-being) for individuals with low-trait empathy or narcissistic traits. Consequently, we propose a novel threefold categorization that aims to build bridges between contemporary Western and traditional Buddhist approaches to mindfulness. This categorization, rooted in the traditional “three trainings” or “triśikṣā” Buddhist principle, distinguishes between the mindfulness practices incorporated within mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), according to whether they primarily employ concentration-, ethics-, or wisdom-based contemplative techniques. We explicate how this more nuanced categorization provides a greater understanding of how varied mindfulness practices could influence outcomes associated with an individual’s prosocial behaviour, social and emotional well-being, and mental health. Additionally, we highlight the potential of greater research into MBIs that are structured around the Mindfulness of Breathing or the Ānāpānasati Sutta progression of concentration-based to ethics-based and finally to wisdom-based practices, particularly in terms of their utility to facilitate self-transcendent experiences.
Corporate Governance, Management Environmental Training, and Carbon Performance: The UK Evidence
Authors: Khatib Saleh F.A. , Al Amosh Hamzeh 
Published: December 2023

AbstractFollowing the stress on corporate governance (CG) attributes and their roles on environmental performance, an investigation on the association between CG and carbon performance of the firms listed on the London Stock Exchange is conducted, using data of non-financial companies for the period from 2016 to 2020. To enhance the depth of analysis, this paper introduces management environmental training as a moderator, offering a more nuanced examination of the CG-carbon performance relationship. The findings showed that CG and environmental governance contribute to mitigating CO2 emissions, including the aggregate, Scope 2, and Scope 1 indicators. This suggests that companies prioritizing effective governance mechanisms are more likely to achieve comprehensive emissions management. Also, our results suggest that management environmental training has a moderating impact on the CG-CO2 emissions association, indicating that environment-related training of firm management enhances the efficiency of CG in dealing with environmental issues. The results have substantial implications for policymakers, regulators, and practitioners about the efficiency of CG mechanisms and environmental training in determining company environmental behaviour.
Utilization of paper sludge in preparation of high-purity calcium formate
Authors: Hassan Mohammad L. , Hassan Enas A. , Elseoud Wafaa S. Abou , Moustafa Aisha M. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Paper sludge generated from recycling of printed paper is a negative value waste since cellulosic fibers in the sludge are too damaged to be used in paper making and, more important, the sludge has very high content of ash (up to ~ 35%) and ink residues. To be able to utilize cellulosic fibers in bio-conversion industries which depend on saccharification of the fibers into sugars, de-ashing of the sludge is necessary. The major component of the ash is fillers used in paper making, especially calcium carbonate. In the current work, high-purity calcium formate was prepared utilizing calcium carbonate in the paper sludge — as a zero-value precursor — via treatment with formic acid under controlled conditions. The synthesized calcium formate was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM–EDX). Calcium formate synthesized using paper sludge was compared to that prepared by reacting pure precipitated calcium carbonate and formic acid using the aforementioned tools of analyses. The results confirmed successful preparation of calcium formate with high-purity (99%) with orthorhombic crystal structure from paper sludge as pure as that prepared using pure commercially available precipitated calcium carbonate. The results and approach used in the current work could convert paper sludge to value-added products with high profit and at the same time reduce the huge amounts of land-filled sludge.

Graphical abstract