bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determining the rate-limiting processes for cell division inEscherichia coli
Authors: Männik Jaana , Kar Prathitha , Amarasinghe Chathuddasie , Amir Ariel , Männik Jaan 
Published: March 2024

AbstractA critical cell cycle checkpoint for most bacteria is the onset of constriction when the septal peptidoglycan synthesis starts. According to the current understanding, the arrival of FtsN to midcell triggers this checkpoint inEscherichia coli. Recent structural andin vitrodata suggests that recruitment of FtsN to the Z-ring leads to a conformational switch in actin-like FtsA, which links FtsZ protofilaments to the cell membrane and acts as a hub for the late divisome proteins. Here, we investigate this putative pathway usingin vivomeasurements and stochastic cell cycle modeling. Quantitatively upregulating protein concentrations and determining the resulting division timings shows that FtsN and FtsA numbers are not rate-limiting for the division inE. coli. However, at higher overexpression levels, they affect divisions: FtsN by accelerating and FtsA by inhibiting them. At the same time, we find that the numbers of FtsZ in the cell are rate-limiting for cell divisions in addition to other processes. Altogether, these findings suggest that instead of FtsN, FtsZ protofilaments drive the conformational switch of FtsA and lead to the onset of constriction. Our data is also suggestive that FtsA minirings are not present at any significant numbers in wild-type cells.
Analysis of Infiltrating Immune Cells Following Intervertebral Disc Injury Reveals Recruitment of Gamma-Delta (γδ) T cells in Female Mice
Authors: Clayton Sade W. , Walk Remy E. , Mpofu Laura , Easson Garrett W.D. , Tang Simon Y. 
Published: March 2024

SummaryInadequate repair of injured intervertebral discs (IVD) leads to degeneration and contributes to low back pain. Infiltrating immune cells into damaged musculoskeletal tissues are critical mediators of repair, yet little is known about their identities, roles, and temporal regulation following IVD injury. By analyzing longitudinal changes in gene expression, tissue morphology, and the dynamics of infiltrating immune cells following injury, we characterize sex-specific differences in immune cell populations and identify the involvement of previously unreported immune cell types, γδ and NKT cells. Cd3+Cd4-Cd8-T cells are the largest infiltrating lymphocyte population with injury, and we identified the presence of γδ T cells in this population in female mice specifically, and NKT cells in males. Injury-mediated IVD degeneration was prevalent in both sexes, but more severe in males. Sex-specific degeneration may be associated with the differential immune response since γδ T cells have potent anti-inflammatory roles and may mediate IVD repair.Abstract FigureGraphical Abstract:Schematic of the workflow to obtain longitudinal analyses of the acute IVD injury responseInjured caudal IVDs, CC5/6-CC9/10, were bilaterally punctured with a 30G needle to induce a traumatic injury. Injured IVDs and neighboring uninjured internal Control IVDs, CC12/13-CC16/17, were isolated during the acute injury response every 2-3 days until 21 days post injury (dpi) and a chronic injury time point at 42 dpi in female mice. Male mice samples were only collected at key injury response time points (red numbers): 3, 7, 12, 19, and 42 dpi. Longitudinal analyses of the temporal regulation of immune cell gene expression and cell infiltration were measured with qPCR, flow cytometry, immune fluorescence, and histology analyses to identify a sex-divergent immune response.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids modify glucose metabolism in THP-1 monocytes
Authors: Byun Michael J. , Armon Roni , Souza Tamaris , Anderson Hope D. , Saleem Ayesha , Pauls Samantha D. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractChronic inflammation is a driving factor in diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Enhanced glucose metabolism, includingviaoxidative phosphorylation, may contribute to heightened immune activation. A recent clinical trial showed that supplementation with the n-3 fatty acid α-linolenic acid (ALA) reduced oxidative phosphorylation rates in human monocytes. However, the mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, our objective was to explore the direct effects of ALA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on glucose metabolism in a cell culture model and to explore the molecular mechanism.THP-1 monocytes were treated for 48h with 10-40 μM of ALA or DHA and compared with vehicle and oleic acid controls. The Seahorse XFe24 system was used to approximate catabolic rates in the presence of glucose, including glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation. The latter was validated by respirometry using an Oroboros O2k Oxygraph. Both ALA and DHA treatments reduced oxidative phosphorylation and increased glycolytic rates relative to control conditions. We identified pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4), an enzyme that inhibits the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA, as a possible mechanistic candidate. This gene was significantly upregulated by ALA and, to a greater extent, by DHA. Using fluorescent indicators, we also found that DHA increased reactive oxygen species while ALA had no effect.Our data suggest that ALA and DHA trigger a re-wiring of bioenergetic pathways in monocytes, possiblyviathe upregulation of PKD4. Given the close relationship between cell metabolism and immune cell activation, this may represent a novel mechanism by which n-3 fatty acids modulate immune function and inflammation.
Investigating cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between brain structure and distinct dimensions of externalizing psychopathology in the ABCD Sample
Authors: Propp Lee , Nakua Hajer , Bedard Anne-Claude V. , Sanches Marcos , Ameis Stephanie H. , Andrade Brendan F. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractExternalizing psychopathology in childhood is a predictor of poor outcomes across the lifespan. Children exhibiting elevated externalizing psychopathology also commonly show emotion dysregulation and callous-unemotional (CU) traits. Examining cross-sectional and longitudinal neural correlates across dimensions linked to externalizing psychopathology during childhood may clarify shared or distinct neurobiological vulnerability for psychopathological impairment later in life. We used tabulated brain structure and behavioural data from baseline, year 1, and year 2 timepoints of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (ABCD; baseline n=10,534). We fit separate linear mixed effect models to examine whether baseline brain structures in frontolimbic and striatal regions (cortical thickness or subcortical volume) were associated with externalizing symptoms, emotion dysregulation, and/or CU traits at baseline and over a two-year period. At baseline, cortical thickness in the right rostral middle frontal gyrus and bilateral pars orbitalis was positively associated with CU traits (β=|0.027-0.033|,pcorrected=0.009-0.03). Subcortical volume in the left caudate, right amygdala, and bilateral nucleus accumbens was negatively associated with emotion dysregulation (β=|0.026 – 0.037|,pcorrected=<0.001-0.02). Over the two-year follow-up period, higher baseline cortical thickness in the left pars triangularis and rostral middle frontal gyrus predicted greater decreases in externalizing symptoms (F=6.33-6.94,pcorrected=0.014). The results of the current study suggest that unique regions within frontolimbic and striatal networks may be more strongly associated with different dimensions of externalizing psychopathology. The longitudinal findings indicate that brain structure in early childhood may provide insight into structural features that influence behaviour over time.
Optimal geographical distribution of Saudi dates exports
Authors: Ghanem Adel Mohammed , Alrwis Khaled Nahar , Alnashwan Othman S. , Alnafissa Mohamad A. , Ahamada Said Azali , Al-Nashwan Ibrahim bin Othman 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThis research aimed to maximize the value of date exports for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve its objective, this study relied on secondary data and quantitative economic analysis represented by the Linear programming model.FindingsThis study showed that Saudi Arabia exports dates to the United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Kuwait, Turkey, Somalia, Jordan, Oman, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh Morocco, Lebanon, and others. The geographical concentration coefficient for the quantity and value of date exports was 35.05% and 34.74%, respectively, during the study period. Saudi Arabia exported a quantity of dates amounting to 83.08 thousand tons, representing 40.57% of the average total amount of Saudi dates exports during the study period, to Yemen, Somalia, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Egypt, China, Djibouti, Bahrain, and Ethiopia, at prices lower than the average export price of 1200.31 dollars/ton, and therefore the export policy needs to restructure the geographical distribution of date exports. Based on the models of geographical distribution, Saudi date exports value can be increased by 32.76–127.12 million dollars, meaning can be increased by 13.77% – 53.44%. In light of the results of the proposed models, this study recommends the need to restructure the geographical distribution of Saudi date exports so that the value of Saudi date exports can be increased by 127.12 million dollars from the current situation for the period 2017–2021.Originality/valueThe paper’s original contribution lies in its proposal to restructure the geographical distribution of Saudi date exports to increase the value of exports.
The impact of business group affiliation on CO2 emissions: evidence from Chile
Authors: Pinto-Gutiérrez Cristian 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the relationship between business group affiliation and CO2 emissions in Chile, providing insights into the pollution externalities associated with business group structures and their implications for environmental performance.Design/methodology/approachA hand-matched sample of industrial facilities and subsidiaries of listed firms in Chile was utilized to analyze the CO2 emissions of business group-affiliated firms compared to stand-alone firms. Fixed-effect regression analysis and propensity score matching were employed to examine the differences in emissions levels.FindingsThe results suggest that firms affiliated with business groups have higher CO2 emissions in comparison to similar stand-alone firms. This suggests that business group structures may weaken the pressures for emission reduction and maintenance of public legitimacy among affiliated firms.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of this study are subject to certain limitations, such as the use of a specific dataset from Chile and the inability to explore certain factors due to data constraints. For instance, we were unable to examine the separation between control and cash-flow rights as well as the influence of manager characteristics on pollution levels. Future research should address these limitations and expand the analysis to other emerging market countries to further investigate the impact of lax or ineffective environmental regulations on pollution outcomes.Practical implicationsThe research findings have practical implications for investors and policymakers. Investors interested in environmentally sustainable investments should consider the higher pollution levels associated with business group-affiliated firms. Policymakers can use these findings to design more effective regulations and incentives to encourage emission reduction efforts within business group structures.Social implicationsThe study’s results emphasize the need for a comprehensive understanding of the environmental implications of business group affiliation. By recognizing the potential for higher emissions in business group structures, stakeholders can advocate for sustainable practices, encourage transparency and promote responsible environmental management within corporate entities.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature on corporate governance, climate risks and pollution externalities by providing an empirical evidence on the relationship between business group affiliation and CO2 emissions. It highlights the importance of considering the influence of corporate structures on environmental performance, particularly in the context of emerging market economies.
Sports ambassadors and destination image: a fuzzy set analysis
Authors: Vila-López Natalia , Küster-Boluda Inés , Aragonés-Jericó Cristina , Sarabia-Sánchez Francisco 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThis paper aims to identify different combinations of causal conditions (celebrity attributes) that explain our outcome: destination image. More specifically, three main research questions guide our work: (1) Which attributes should an outstanding sportsperson have to enhance the image of his/her country as a destination image? (2) Are these the same for different product categories? (3) Do tourists and residents differ?Design/methodology/approachTo this end, the fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) was used with a sample of 187 participants (105 tourists and 82 residents).FindingsResults show that some attributes of a sports celebrity are more critical than others in enhancing destination image. Those attributes of sports celebrities appearing in the intermediate and parsimonious analysis should be prioritized. This is the case of trustworthiness. Second, experience is a peripheral requirement (only appeared in the intermediate analysis). Third, attractiveness is unnecessary and an even and undesired attribute in many solutions. Fourth, when comparing tourists and residents, both groups value the role of football players, while residents also appreciate the role of marathon runners. Tennis players are the less relevant sports celebrities to build Spain’s destination image.Originality/valueFirst, a new statistical analysis in the marketing discipline, QCA, has been used. The use of qualitative approaches to investigate destination images has been scarce. Second, the study of the role of sports celebrity endorsement on brand–place attachment has yet to be investigated. Third, studies about the role of residents in the image of a tourism destination/city are scarce. Tourists and residents must be investigated because they can benefit from sports celebrities' activities.
Challenges and benefits for small and medium enterprises in the transformation to smart manufacturing: a systematic literature review and framework
Authors: Krishnan Ramesh 
Published: March 2024

PurposeSmart manufacturing is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry by shifting the focus from traditional manufacturing to a more intelligent, interconnected and responsive system. Despite being the backbone of the economy and despite the government’s efforts in supporting and encouraging the transformation to smart manufacturing, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have been struggling to transform their operations. This study aims to identify the challenges for SMEs’ transformation and the benefits they can get from this transformation, following a systematic review of existing literature.Design/methodology/approachA systematic review of existing literature has been performed to identify the peer-reviewed journal articles that focus on smart manufacturing for SMEs. First, a comprehensive list of keywords relevant to the review questions are identified. Second, Scopus and Web of Science databases were then used to search for articles, applying filters for English language and peer-reviewed status. Third, after manually assessing abstracts for relevance, 175 articles are considered for further review and analysis.FindingsThe benefits and challenges of SMEs’ transformation to smart manufacturing are identified. The identified challenges are categorized using the Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI) framework. Further, to address the identified challenges and initiate the SME’s transition toward smart manufacturing, a framework has been proposed that shows how SMEs can start their transition with minimum investment and existing resources.Originality/valueSeveral studies have concentrated on understanding how smart manufacturing enhances sustainability, productivity and preventive maintenance. However, there is a lack of studies comprehensively analyzing the challenges for smart manufacturing adoption for SMEs. The originality of this study lies in identifying the challenges and benefits of smart manufacturing transformation and proposing a framework as a roadmap for SMEs' smart manufacturing adoption.
The significance and challenges of turnover and retention of millennial professionals
Authors: Minzlaff Kathrine Anne , Palmer Stephen , Fillery-Travis Annette 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThis paper aims to provide readers with a comprehensive overview of the current state of the millennial literature, highlighting the significance and challenges of millennial professionals, their reported high turnover and the various recommendations designed to engage and retain them.Design/methodology/approachAn integrated review approach was applied to synthesise contemporary peer-reviewed articles, supplemented by legacy and grey literature and relevant book chapters, to comprehensively explore and construct a cohesive overview of the current research on the millennial workforce.FindingsWithin the wealth of available information, examining the various studies on millennial turnover reveals diverse theories, evidence and opportunities for advancement, underscoring the necessity for more robust empirical studies. The investigation identified three overarching retention strategy themes: (1) intergenerational conflict management, (2) workplace adaptations and (3) solutions rooted in a protean career orientation. In alignment with protean career concepts, coaching shows promise as an underexplored option.Practical implicationsThis article holds practical significance by offering researchers a comprehensive and cohesive overview of the millennial literature. Additionally, it gives organisations a novel perspective on the crucial role coaching can play in engaging and retaining millennial employees.Originality/valueThe increased focus on retaining millennial workers in recent decades has spurred a proliferation of articles and books on this subject. However, this body of research remains fragmented, lacking an overview that provides a clear picture of its current state. This review aims to bridge this gap.
Do heuristics affect Brazilian investors’ decision-making process?
Authors: Souza Virgílio Vasconcelos , Souza Lucas Lopes Ferreira , Oliveira Oderlene , Souza Elnivan Moreira de , Costa Juliana Silva 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to analyze the influence of heuristics on Brazilian investors' behavior in the decision-making process.Design/methodology/approachThe authors apply the partial least squares structural equation modeling methodology. This sample is composed of 220 investors.FindingsThe heuristics of overconfidence and anchoring positively influence investors' decision-making, while loss aversion negatively influences it. The herd effect exhibits no influence. The results also support the idea that decision-making positively influences investors' performance. Investors feel secure in their attitudes regarding financial decision-making, even if their decisions are not always rational as they are affected by biases.Originality/valueThis article explains the influence of heuristics on investors' decision-making and performance in the Brazilian context during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A thematic analysis of contemporary tourism education
Authors: Yağmur Karalım Pınar 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThis study examines two crucial aspects of employability in the tourism industry, with a particular emphasis on contemporary advancements. The first aspect pertains to the emerging demands in the employability sector of the tourism industry, driven by technological advancements. Given the evident nature of this emerging trend, it is imperative to possess a robust infrastructure and comprehensive knowledge. The second aspect is to evaluate the level of education that industry employees receive in relation to the tourism sector in order to ensure sustainable development.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a thematic literature review to evaluate the significance of tourism education on employability and the necessity of adopting technology.FindingsThe findings deviate from the extensive literature search showed that Higher Education Institutions should prioritise ensuring that the new generation’s technological capabilities align with the traditional curricula in their respective fields, given the widespread use of personal computers and smartphones. Ultimately, students are increasingly expecting that technology will significantly impact their educational experiences and modes of communication for their future careers.Practical implicationsIt is widely acknowledged that the most efficient approach to fostering learning is to exert authority over the learning setting, and educators should generate learning prospects for students rather than merely transmitting information and facts.Originality/valueThis review assesses two key aspects of employability in the tourism industry, focussing on recent technological advancements and the necessary skills for students' future careers.
Clinicopathological characteristics of patients with primary tracheal tumors: Analysis of eighty‐nine cases
Authors: Piórek Aleksandra , Płużański Adam , Teterycz Paweł , Tabor Sylwia , Winiarczyk Kinga , Knetki‐Wróblewska Magdalena , Kowalski Dariusz M. , Krzakowski Maciej 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundPrimary tracheal tumors are very rare and the literature on this subject is limited. The most common histological type of primary tracheal tumors is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), followed by adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). Limited knowledge exists regarding the behavior and outcomes of different histological types of tracheal cancers. The present study aimed to address this gap by assessing the significance of the histological type of primary tracheal tumors based on our own data and to review the literature.MethodsWe carried out a retrospective analysis of 89 patients with primary tracheal tumors treated at the Maria Sklodowska‐Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Poland, between 2000 and 2016. The study assessed patient demographics, tumor characteristics and treatment, with a focus on SCC, ACC, and other histological types. Different histological types were compared in terms of overall survival, disease‐free survival, and progression‐free survival.ResultsSCC was the most frequently diagnosed histological type (56.2%), followed by ACC (21.3%). Patients with SCC were typically older (78% over 60 years), predominantly male (66%), and associated with smoking. In contrast, the ACC had a more balanced gender distribution and did not correlate with smoking. ACC displayed a significantly better prognosis, with a median overall survival of 129.4 months, compared with 9.0 months for SCC.ConclusionHistological type plays a crucial role in the prognosis of primary tracheal tumors. ACC demonstrated a more favorable outcome compared with SCC.