bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Extreme diversity of phage amplification rates and phage-antibiotic interactions revealed by PHORCE
Authors: Mulla Yuval , Müller Janina , Trimcev Denny , Bollenbach Tobias 
Published: June 2024

AbstractGrowth rate plays a fundamental role in microbiology and serves as an important proxy for fitness in evolution. While high-throughput measurements of bacterial growth rates are easily performed in any microbiology lab, similar methods are lacking for bacteriophages. This gap hinders systematic comparisons of important phage phenotypes, such as their amplification rate in bacterial populations and their bactericidal effect, across different phages and environmental conditions. Here, we show that the amplification rate of lytic phages can be quantified by analyzing bacterial population growth and collapse dynamics under phage predation using a parsimonious mathematical model – an approach termed PHORCE (Phage-Host Observation for Rate estimation from Collapse Events). We found that the resulting phage amplification rate captures the bactericidal effect independent of initial phage and bacterial population sizes and across different growth conditions. Using high-throughput PHORCE, we found that the amplification rates ofEscherichia coliphages vary widely by more than three orders of magnitude. Furthermore, our approach suggests that phage–antibiotic interactions are predominantly determined by the antibiotic, and not by the phage. In particular, the ribosome-inhibiting antibiotic doxycycline generally showed antagonism with phage amplification, whereas the DNA-damaging antibiotic nitrofurantoin was synergistic. This framework provides a means to quantitatively characterize phage phenotypes and may facilitate future high-throughput phage screens for antibacterial applications.
Astrocyte-induced firing in primary afferent axons
Authors: Gaudel Fanny , Giraud Julia , Morquette Philippe , Couillard-Larocque Marc , Verdier Dorly , Kolta Arlette 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus is unique in that it contains the cell bodies of large-caliber primary afferents that are usually located in the periphery in the dorsal root ganglia or trigeminal ganglia. The activity of these afferents is typically associated with proprioception of the jaw-closing muscles or mechanoreception on the teeth and periodontal ligament. However, like other large-caliber afferents from the body which display ectopic firing in neuropathic pain models, these afferents exhibit increased excitability and ectopic discharges even in a relatively mild muscle pain model. These discharges normally emerge from subthreshold membrane oscillations (SMOs) supported by a persistent sodium current (INaP) which is exquisitely sensitive to extracellular Ca2+-decreases. We have shown in the trigeminal main sensory nucleus that the release of a Ca2+-binding astrocytic protein, S100β, is sufficient to modulate this sodium current. Here, we explore if this astrocyte-dependent mechanism contributes to emergence of this hyperexcitability and aim to localize the cellular site where ectopic discharge may arise using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings, confocal imaging, and immunohistochemistry methods on mice brain slices. We found that astrocytes, by lowering [Ca2+]eat focal points along the axons of NVmes neurons through S100β, enhance the amplitude of the NaV1.6-dependent SMOs leading to ectopic firing. These findings suggest a crucial role for astrocytes in excitability regulation and raise questions about this neuron-astrocyte interaction as a key contributor to hyperexcitability in several pathologies.
The Histidine Kinase NahK Regulates Denitrification and Nitric Oxide Accumulation through RsmA inPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Guercio Danielle , Boon Elizabeth 
Published: June 2024

AbstractPseudomonas aeruginosahave a versatile metabolism; they can adapt to many stressors, including limited oxygen and nutrient availability. This versatility is especially important within a biofilm where multiple microenvironments are present. As a facultative anaerobe,P. aeruginosacan survive under anaerobic conditions utilizing denitrification. This process produces nitric oxide (NO) which has been shown to result in cell elongation. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this phenotype is poorly understood. Our laboratory has previously shown that NosP is a NO-sensitive hemoprotein that works with the histidine kinase NahK to regulate biofilm inP. aeruginosa. In this study, we identify NahK as a novel regulator of denitrification under anaerobic conditions. Under anaerobic conditions, deletion ofnahKleads to a reduction of growth coupled with reduced transcriptional expression and activity of the denitrification reductases. Further, during stationary phase under anaerobic conditions, ΔnahKdoes not exhibit cell elongation, which is characteristic ofP. aeruginosa. We determine the loss of cell elongation is due to changes in NO accumulation inΔnahK. We further provide evidence that NahK may regulate denitrification through modification of RsmA activity.ImportanceP. aeruginosais an opportunistic multi-drug resistance pathogen that is associated with hospital acquired infections.P. aeruginosais highly virulent, in part due to its versatile metabolism and ability to form biofilms. Therefore, better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate these processes should lead to new therapeutics to treatP. aeruginosainfections. The histidine kinase NahK has been previously shown to be involved in both NO signaling and quorum sensing through RsmA. The data presented here demonstrate that NahK is responsive to NO produced during denitrification to regulate cell morphology. Understanding NahK’s role in metabolism under anaerobic conditions has larger implications in determining Nahk’s role in a heterogeneous metabolic environment such as a biofilm.
Systematic analysis of protein stability associated with species-specific developmental tempo
Authors: Matsuda Mitsuhiro , Hammarén Henrik M. , Lázaro Jorge , Savitski Mikhail M. , Ebisuya Miki 
Published: June 2024

AbstractHuman embryonic development is generally slower compared with mouse, and one of the model systems for such inter-species differences in developmental tempo is the segmentation clock. The oscillation period of the human segmentation clock, as measured in induced presomitic mesoderm (iPSM) cells, is two times longer than that of mouse. While the core clock gene HES7 is known to show slower protein degradation in human iPSM compared with mouse iPSM, it remains unclear whether the concept of species-specific protein stability is generalizable to other genes. Here we systematically compared the protein degradation rates of approximately 5000 genes between human and mouse iPSM by using dynamic SILAC-based proteomics, demonstrating a pervasive trend of slower protein degradation in human cells. The inter-species difference was observed not only for proteasome-mediated but also for lysosome-mediated degradation. We further investigated the effect of metabolism on the protein stability profile. Treating mouse iPSM cells with a glycolysis inhibitor extended the segmentation clock period, aligning the protein stability profile more closely with that of human cells, though with less effect on lysosome-mediated degradation. These results highlight the universality of slower protein degradation in human development compared with mouse, and suggest metabolism as one of the modulators.
Coral larvae employ nitrogen sequestration mechanisms to stabilize carbon provisioning from algal symbionts under increased temperature
Authors: Huffmyer Ariana S. , Ashey Jill , Strand Emma , Chiles Eric , Su Xiaoyang , Putnam Hollie M. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractRising sea surface temperatures are increasingly causing breakdown in the nutritional relationship between corals and algal endosymbionts (Symbiodiniaceae), threatening the basis of coral reef ecosystems and highlighting the critical role of coral reproduction in reef maintenance. The effects of thermal stress on metabolic exchange (i.e., transfer of fixed carbon photosynthates from symbiont to host) during sensitive early life stages, however, remains understudied. We exposed symbioticMontipora capitatacoral larvae in Hawaiʻi to high temperature (+2.5°C for 3 days), assessed rates of photosynthesis and respiration, and used stable isotope tracing (4mM13C sodium bicarbonate; 4.5 h) to quantify metabolite exchange. While larvae did not show any signs of bleaching and did not experience declines in survival and settlement, metabolic depression was significant under high temperature, indicated by a 19% reduction in respiration rates, but with no change in photosynthesis. Larvae exposed to high temperature showed evidence for maintained translocation of a major photosynthate, glucose, from the symbiont, but there was reduced metabolism of glucose through central carbon metabolism (i.e., glycolysis). The larval host invested in nitrogen cycling by increasing ammonium assimilation, urea metabolism, and sequestration of nitrogen into dipeptides, a mechanism that may support the maintenance of glucose translocation under thermal stress. Host nitrogen assimilation via dipeptide synthesis appears to be used for nitrogen limitation to the Symbiodiniaceae, with the outcome of reduced symbiont population growth and retention of fixed carbon, effectively simulating photosynthate translocation to the host. Collectively, our findings indicate that although these larvae are susceptible to metabolic stress under high temperature, they can combat bleaching by diverting energy to nitrogen assimilation to maintain symbiont population density, photosynthesis, and carbon translocation.
Board of directors effect on environmental, social and governance performance in publicly traded non-financial firms
Authors: Sepulveda-Nuñez Ma Dolores Del Carmen , Fong Reynoso Carlos , Llamosas-Rosas Irving 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine the effect of the board of directors (BoD) structure on environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance in publicly traded non-financial firms from the perspective of agency theory, with investors as the principal, the management team as the agent, the BoD as an information system that reduces information asymmetries between them and ESG performance as a shareholder’s expectation.

Design/methodology/approach
Sample data is cross-sectional as of January 2023 and includes 1,695 non-financial firms listed in 59 stock markets across 54 countries. Data were sourced from the FactSet Research Systems database. The generalized least squares method was used to run quadratic and exponential models to assess the research hypotheses.

Findings
Results revealed that board size, independence, age, gender diversity and participation on other corporate boards have a nonlinear relationship with ESG performance. Board tenure is the only BoD attribute for which a nonlinear association is not found. This study found that firms with larger boards and more female board members tend to exhibit a stronger commitment to ESG performance. In contrast, companies with a board of directors consisting of independent members, advanced age, service on other corporate boards and CEO duality may struggle to prioritize positive ESG outcomes.

Originality/value
This study contributes to the academic discussion on BoD–ESG by examining nonlinear relationships among a large sample of publicly traded firms; providing results that could be applied internationally; using ESG data that is based on the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board's materiality framework, which identifies key ESG factors for investors; emphasizing the significance of diversity and inclusion within the decision-making bodies of public companies, thereby improving their ESG performance; and supporting the agency theory perspective and suggesting that the effect of board structure on ESG may reflect the board's focus on investors’ best interests.
Two Brothers Organic Farms: building shared value in a competitive market
Authors: Laddha Seema , Bose Vatsala 
Published: June 2024

Learning outcomes
After completion of the case study, students will be able to understand organic farming challenges in India, analyze Two Brothers Organic Farms’ (TBOF) value chain for creating shared values, evaluate marketing mix and product development strategies, explore social media’s impact on marketing and explore and propose strategies for long-term sustainability in the organic farming industry.

Case overview/synopsis
The case study revolves around the entrepreneurial journey of Ajinkya and Satyajit Hange, two brothers who transitioned from successful banking careers to pursue their passion for organic farming. Establishing TBOF in Pune, India, the duo faced challenges in introducing organic produce to a market resistant to change. With a commitment to regenerative agriculture, they implemented innovative farming practices, including desi cow rearing, multicropping and indigenous seeds. The narrative unfolds the brothers’ strategic roles, where Ajinkya manages crop production, and Satyajit focuses on marketing. Emphasizing a trusted brand built on quality, they expanded their product portfolio (Figure 2), reaching 52 countries through direct marketing and word of mouth. As the organic food industry surged postpandemic, TBPF faced challenges in meeting rising demand. The case study discusses the organic farming sector in India, underscoring the brothers’ efforts to combat harmful agro-inputs. The dilemmas lie in navigating the niche organic market, supply–demand imbalances and the need for sustainable business processes. The case study aims to explore the strategic decisions and dilemmas encountered by TBOF, offering insights into the complexities of sustainable entrepreneurship in the Indian organic farming sector.

Complexity academic level
This case study should be used in marketing and management classes at the undergraduate level. Applicable concepts include artificial intelligence, social media, content and information.

Supplementary materials
Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code
CSS 11: Strategy.
Employee development programs as catalysts for suicide prevention and organizational change
Authors: Bilderback Stephanie 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This paper explores the critical role of employee development programs (EDPs) in preventing workplace suicides, as underscored by 2019 statistics from the US Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. It identifies various industries with elevated suicide rates. It considers both work-related stressors, like fear of failure and autonomy loss, and external factors, like family or financial issues, as contributing factors. The paper advocates for EDPs to enhance employee-organization relationships, promoting engagement and positive change. Through skills training, coaching and job enrichment, EDPs intend to address employee concerns, offering support and contributing to suicide prevention.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper examines the role of EDPs in preventing employee suicides, a concern highlighted by the US Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics data on rising suicide rates. It uses the interpersonal theory of suicide to underline the urgency of addressing this global issue empirically. The paper proposes that EDPs, through skills training, coaching and job enrichment, can tackle underlying job satisfaction issues, fostering positive organizational change and enhancing employee well-being. It advocates for EDPs as a means to not only improve workplace dynamics but also potentially save lives.

Findings
This study finds that EDPs are vital in preventing suicides in organizational settings. EDPs address factors affecting job satisfaction and mental well-being, potentially leading to suicidal behavior. These programs enhance employee engagement and motivation by incorporating skill training, coaching and job enrichment. The study emphasizes the need for EDPs to promote positive organizational change and to improve employee well-being, thereby contributing to suicide prevention and fostering healthier employer-employee relationships, leading to broader social and mental health benefits.

Originality/value
This paper’s novelty stems from its exploration of EDPs as a strategy for preventing employee suicide. It offers a unique perspective by linking EDPs to suicide prevention, focusing on enhancing job satisfaction and mental well-being. Using the interpersonal theory of suicide, the paper not only underscores the global importance of suicide but also identifies high-risk occupations. It argues for EDPs as a proactive measure in organizations, presenting a new approach to employee suicide prevention with broad implications for organizational practices and employee welfare worldwide.
Combining methodologies for textual data analysis
Authors: Hamiot Jean-Yves 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to consider the interface of research methodology paradigms (which are commonly conventionally perceived as being juxtaposed when conducting research) through the application of textual analytical software.

Design/methodology/approach
The argument develops matrices and applies these to the human resource (HR) context of individual and career group sense-making so as to better understand the inherent career dynamics and sense-making in a sample derived from a French media agency context.

Findings
The paper’s findings comprise a range of insights from the respondent managers (n = 26). The results suggest that a better understanding of methodologies facilitates the development of theories based on textual data analysis.

Research limitations/implications
The limits of the approach are important. Indeed, it is necessary to make compromises and arrangements with epistemological orthodoxy. Indeed, at first and to be able to process the data with the Alceste© and Tropes©, the interviews were recorded, transcribed and considered as “definitive”. This potentially contradicts the methods of collecting data prescribed by the thematic analysis or the method of cognitive maps. These two interpretive approaches imply a process of co-construction of the results that would not theoretically rely solely on a recording.

Practical implications
It provides insights on how, and to what extent, can data analytical software packages facilitate a better understanding of paradigm (interpretive-positivistic) interoperation and commensurability.

Social implications
Importantly, the study provides a novel means by which to study the important HR issue of career perception and trajectory.

Originality/value
The methodology-driven approach shows that there is potent scope to map and develop valuable and complementary data perspectives on research issues by interfacing paradigms and textual data analysis tools.
Measuring the production performance indicators for metal-mechanic industry: an LDA modeling approach
Authors: Restrepo Jorge Aníbal , Giraldo Emerson Andres , Vanegas Juan Gabriel 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThis study proposes a novel method to improve the accuracy of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) estimation in the metallurgical industry. This is achieved by modeling the frequency and severity of stoppage events as random variables.Design/methodology/approachAn analysis of 80,000 datasets from a metal-mechanical firm (2020–2022) was performed using the loss distribution approach (LDA) and Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). The data were further adjusted with a product price index to account for inflation.FindingsThe variance analysis revealed supporting colleagues (59.8% of variance contribution), food breaks (29.8%) and refreshments (9.0%) as the events with the strongest influence on operating losses.Research limitations/implicationsThis study provides a more rigorous approach to operational risk management and OEE measurement in the metal-mechanical sector. The developed algorithm supports the establishment of risk management guidelines and facilitates targeted OEE improvement efforts.Originality/valueThis research introduces a novel OEE estimation method specifically for the metallurgical industry, utilizing LDA and MCS to improve accuracy compared to existing techniques.
Organizational culture, generational involvement and entrepreneurial orientation components: a replication study
Authors: Ferrari Angélica , Mucci Daniel Magalhães , Beck Franciele 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This study aims to adopt a replication strategy based on Cherchem (2017), and hence this study investigates how generational involvement moderates the relationship between organizational culture and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in Brazilian family businesses, disentangling each of the EO dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach
This study developed a survey with 107 Brazilian family businesses operating in the textile and clothing industries. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SmartPLS-SEM).

Findings
The results for the direct paths indicate that clan and hierarchical cultures are positively related to EO. As for the moderating effect, only one generation of the family involved in management tends to stimulate a stronger relationship between the clan culture and the EO. In contrast, when multiple generations exist, the positive relationship between the EO hierarchical culture becomes stronger. Furthermore, this study found different relationships between organizational culture and each of the EO dimensions (proactiveness, innovativeness, risk-taking, competitive aggressiveness and autonomy) and differences in the moderating effect of generational involvement.

Originality/value
Unlike the findings of Cherchem (2017), the authors observed that, in addition to clan culture, hierarchical culture can also act as an enhancer of entrepreneurial strategies. On the other hand, generational involvement influences the relationship between organizational culture and the level of EO (and its dimensions), reinforcing those internal family characteristics that can foster entrepreneurial strategies in family businesses, whose findings align with Cherchem (2017). Moreover, it contributes to the investigation of each of the dimensions of EO separately.