bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Variation in drug penetration does not account for the natural resistance ofMycobacterium abscessusbiofilms to antibiotic
Authors: Akwani Winifred C. , Rakowska Paulina , Gilmore Ian , Chambers Mark , McMahon Greg , Hingley-Wilson Suzie 
Published: April 2024

AbstractMycobacterium abscessus, an inherently drug-resistant, opportunistic, nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) predominantly causes pulmonary infections in immunocompromised patients, notably those with cystic fibrosis.M. abscessussubspecies display distinct colony morphologies (rough and smooth), with the prevalent view thatM. abscessus(smooth) is a persistent, biofilm-forming phenotype, whilstM. abscessus(rough) is unable to form biofilms. Biofilm formation contributes to persistent infections and exhibits increased antibiotic resistance.We used the chemical mapping technique, nanoscale secondary ion spectrometry (NanoSIMS), to investigate if variations in the biofilm morphology and antibiotic penetration account for the antibiotic susceptibility amongstM. abscessussubspecies, contributing to increased antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and potentially explaining the protracted treatment duration.The susceptibility to bedaquiline (BDQ) ofM. abscessusgrown as planktonic bacilli and biofilms was measured. The minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) of BDQ was 8-16 times higher (2-4µg/ml) compared with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (0.25µg/ml), indicating reduced efficacy against biofilms.Correlative imaging with electron microscopy revealed thatM. abscessus(irrespective of the colony morphotype) formed biofilms and that BDQ treatment influenced biofilm morphology. We determined thatM. abscessusmorphotypes exhibit differential uptake of the antibiotic BDQ in biofilms.M. abscessussubsp.abscessus(smooth) biofilms exhibited the least uptake of BDQ, whereasM. abscessussubsp.bolletiibiofilms showed the greatest antibiotic penetration.NanoSIMS analysis revealed no correlation between antibiotic penetration and drug efficacy within the biofilm. This challenges the previous assumption linking biofilm architecture to drug efficacy. Investigating other biofilm characteristics like antibiotic persistence could lead to enhanced treatment approaches.Significance StatementMycobacterium abscessusis an increasingly prevalent pathogen, most often causing lung infections in immunocompromised individuals. Their distinct morphotypes and biofilm-forming capabilities contribute to persistent infections, rendering them challenging to treat with increased antibiotic resistance. This research demonstrates that the antibiotic, bedaquiline exhibits significantly reduced efficacy againstM. abscessusgrowing as a biofilm compared to planktonic growth, but that the efficiency of antibiotic penetration was not the main explanation for the different susceptibilities of MABC biofilms to treatment.
Cell cycle-dependent mRNA localization in P-bodies
Authors: Safieddine Adham , Benassy Marie-Noëlle , Bonte Thomas , Slimani Floric , Pourcelot Oriane , Kress Michel , Ernoult-Lange Michèle , Courel Maïté , Coleno Emeline , Imbert Arthur , Laine Antoine , Godebert Annie Munier , Vinit Angelique , Blugeon Corinne , Chevreux Guillaume , Gautheret Daniel , Walter Thomas , Bertrand Edouard , Bénard Marianne , Weil Dominique 
Published: April 2024

SummaryUnderstanding the dynamics of RNA targeting to membraneless organelles is essential to disentangle their functions. Here, we investigate how P-bodies (PBs) evolve during cell cycle progression. PB purification across the cell cycle uncovers widespread changes in their RNA content, which are partly uncoupled from cell cycle-dependent changes in RNA expression. Single molecule FISH shows various mRNA localization patterns in PBs peaking in G1, S, or G2, with examples illustrating the timely capture of mRNAs in PBs when their encoded protein becomes dispensable. Yet, rather than directly reflecting absence of translation, cyclic mRNA localization in PBs can be controlled by RBPs, such as HuR in G2, and by RNA features. Indeed, while PB mRNAs are AU-rich at all cell cycle phases, they are specifically longer in G1, possibly related to post-mitotic PB reassembly. Altogether, our study supports a model where PBs are more than a default location for excess untranslated mRNAs.
“Temporal variability of theHyalomma marginatum-borne pathogens in a sentinel site of the Occitanie region (France), a focus on the intriguing dynamics ofRickettsia aeschlimannii”
Authors: Charlotte Joly-Kukla , Frédéric Stachurski , Maxime Duhayon , Clémence Galon , Sara Moutailler , Thomas Pollet 
Published: April 2024

AbstractSpatio-temporal scales have a clear influence on microbial community distribution and diversity and are thus essential to consider to identify and study the dynamics of microorganisms. The invasive tick speciesHyalomma marginatumhas recently become established in southern France. It carries pathogens of medical and veterinary interest including the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus,Rickettsia aeschlimannii, Theileria equiandAnaplasma phagocytophilumamong others. While the pathogenic communities ofH. marginatumwere identified and their spatial distribution characterised, their temporal dynamics are still unknown. We performed a monthlyH. marginatumtick collection from February to September 2022 in a sentinel site in southern France in order to study their presence and temporal dynamics. On the 281 ticks analysed, we detected pathogens includedR. aeschlimannii, A. phagocytophilumandT. equiwith infection rates reaching 47.0%, 4.6% and 11.0% respectively. Overall, 14.6% of ticks were infected with at leastTheileriaorAnaplasma, with monthly fluctuations ranging from 2.9% to 28.6%. Strong temporal patterns were observed for each of the detected pathogens, particularly forR. aeschlimanniiwhose infection rates drastically increased at the beginning of summer, correlated with the monthly mean temperatures in the sentinel site. Based on these results, we hypothesized thatR. aeschlimanniimight be a secondary symbiont ofH. marginatumthat could play a role into stress response to temperature. The analysis of monthly and seasonal fluctuations inH. marginatum-borne pathogens allowed us to conclude that the risk of infection is present throughoutH. marginatumactivity period, but particularly in summer.HighlightsStrong monthly fluctuations of pathogen infection rates were observed especially forRickettsia aeschlimannii, currently identified as a human pathogen whose pathogenic status in humans and its symbiotic status inH. marginatumare both questioned.The increase in temperature is correlated with the increase inRickettsia aeschlimanniiinfection rates, providing clues about its potential function as a symbiont inH. marginatum.Ticks are recurrently infected with at least one other pathogen belonging toTheileriaorAnaplasmagenera with monthly fluctuations ranging from 2.9% to 28.6%.The monthly dynamics ofH. marginatum-borne pathogens are important to consider to assess the risk posed by this tick.Graphical abstract
A fine kinetic balance of interactions directs transcription factor hubs to genes
Authors: Fallacaro Samantha , Mukherjee Apratim , Ratchasanmuang Puttachai , Zinski Joseph , Haloush Yara I , Shankta Kareena , Mir Mustafa 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACTEukaryotic gene regulation relies on the binding of sequence-specific transcription factors (TFs). TFs bind chromatin transiently yet occupy their target sites by forming high-local concentration microenvironments (hubs and condensates) that increase the frequency of binding. Despite their ubiquity, such microenvironments are difficult to study in endogenous contexts due to technical limitations. Here, we use live embryo light-sheet imaging, single-molecule tracking, and genomics to overcome these limitations and investigate how hubs are localized to target genes to drive TF occupancy and transcription. By examining mutants of a hub-forming TF, Zelda, inDrosophilaembryos, we find that hub formation propensity, spatial distributions, and temporal stabilities are differentially regulated by DNA binding and disordered protein domains. We show that hub localization to genomic targets is driven by a finely-tuned kinetic balance of interactions between proteins and chromatin, and hubs can be redirected to new genomic sites when this balance is perturbed.
Evaluation of the X-ray/EUV Nanolithography Facility at AS through wavefront propagation simulations
Authors: Knappett Jerome B. M. , Haydon Blair , Cowie Bruce C. C. , Kewish Cameron M. , van Riessen Grant A. 
Published: April 2024

Synchrotron light sources can provide the required spatial coherence, stability and control to support the development of advanced lithography at the extreme ultraviolet and soft X-ray wavelengths that are relevant to current and future fabricating technologies. Here an evaluation of the optical performance of the soft X-ray (SXR) beamline of the Australian Synchrotron (AS) and its suitability for developing interference lithography using radiation in the 91.8 eV (13.5 nm) to 300 eV (4.13 nm) range are presented. A comprehensive physical optics model of the APPLE-II undulator source and SXR beamline was constructed to simulate the properties of the illumination at the proposed location of a photomask, as a function of photon energy, collimation and monochromator parameters. The model is validated using a combination of experimental measurements of the photon intensity distribution of the undulator harmonics. It is shown that the undulator harmonics intensity ratio can be accurately measured using an imaging detector and controlled using beamline optics. Finally, the photomask geometric constraints and achievable performance for the limiting case of fully spatially coherent illumination are evaluated.
Discovering the conceptual building blocks of blockchain technology applications in the agri-food supply chain: a review and research agenda
Authors: González-Mendes Soraya , Alonso-Muñoz Sara , García-Muiña Fernando E. , González-Sánchez Rocío 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThis paper aims to provide an overview of the application of blockchain to agri-food supply chains, including key issues and trends. It examines the state of the art and conceptual structure of the field and proposes an agenda to guide future research.Design/methodology/approachThis article performs a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software on a sample of 205 articles from the WoS database to identify research trend topics.FindingsThe number of publications in this area has increased since 2020, which shows a growing research interest. The research hotspots are related to the integration of blockchain technology in the agri-food supply chain for traceability, coordination between all actors involved, transparency of operations and improvement of food safety. Furthermore, this is linked to sustainability and the achievement of the sustainable development gtoals (SDGs), while addressing key challenges in the implementation of blockchain-based technologies in the agri-food supply chain.Practical implicationsThe application of blockchain in the agri-food supply chain may consider four key aspects. Firstly, the implementation of blockchain can improve the traceability of food products. Secondly, this technology supports sustainability issues and could avoid disruptions in the agri-food supply chain. Third, blockchain improves food quality and safety control throughout the supply chain. Fourthly, the findings show that regulation is needed to improve trust between stakeholders.Originality/valueThe paper provides a comprehensive overview of the blockchain phenomenon in the agri-food supply chain by optimising the search criteria. Moreover, it serves to bridge to future research by identifying gaps in the field.
SMEs and financial dependence: how important are foreign banks?
Authors: Ghosh Saibal 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
The importance of financial dependence of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on their performance is a relatively unaddressed area of research. Relatedly, whether and to what extent foreign bank penetration exerts an impact in the presence of financial dependence also remains an open question. The purpose of the paper in this regard is to exploit unit-level data on Indian SMEs and assess the independent and interactive effects of financial dependence on SME behaviour, in the presence of foreign banks.

Design/methodology/approach
This study uses fixed effects specification to address the issue. In subsequent analysis, this study also uses an instrumental variable approach for robustness.

Findings
The results indicate that financial dependence improves investment and employment, although there is a decline in productivity. These findings differ across size classes of SMEs. Similar is the evidence in the presence of foreign banks. In particular, foreign bank penetration leads to a decline in investment for micro and medium SMEs, although for small SMEs, the impact is found to be the opposite.

Originality/value
To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is one of the early within-country studies to examine the interface between SMEs and financial dependence and the role played by foreign banks in this regard.
Simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines
Authors: Xie Zhanghuang , Li Xiaomei , Huang Dian , Appolloni Andrea , Fang Kan 
Published: April 2024

PurposeWe consider a joint optimization problem of product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines, and seek to find efficient solution approaches to solve such problem.Design/methodology/approachWe propose a mathematical formulation for the problem of simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines, and develop a simulated annealing-based hyper-heuristic algorithm with adjustable operator sequence length to solve the problem.FindingsThe simulated annealing-based hyper-heuristic algorithm with adjustable operator sequence length (SAHH-osla) that we proposed can be quite efficient in solving the problem of simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines.Originality/valueTo the best of our knowledge, we are one of the first to consider both cost-related and time-related criteria for the problem of simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines.
Stopping the avalanche of trauma in schools through early intervention: a three-phase model proposal
Authors: Leh Jayne M. 
Published: April 2024

PurposeGroups of students were enrolled in a course that sought to produce a three-phase theoretical model over three semesters.Design/methodology/approachA design project to comprehensively address school violence was launched at a university in eastern Pennsylvania.FindingsThis article updates the recent and most critical finding of the project by illuminating specific implications of the importance of teacher training and the development toward competence in recognition of children who are emotionally and psychologically injured through proactive measures such as screening for emotional and psychological well-being.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the model has not been tested, screening to identify those in need of emotional support and training to support teachers is clear. Screening and training offer important opportunities to help learners build skills toward resilience to soften the effects of trauma.Practical implicationsA view of the “whole child” with regard to academic success could further foster social and emotional development.Social implicationsEarly intervention can prevent the onset of symptoms associated with posttraumatic stress and related disorders. This effort alone may significantly reduce the uncomfortable incidences and perhaps ultimate prevention of the violence that is perpetuated among children.Originality/valuePreliminary research supports a continued conversation regarding effective tools to find children emotionally and psychologically at-risk, which allows teachers an opportunity for timely emotional and psychological interventions.
Empowering employees, empowering the environment: green HRM’s journey to happiness, resilience and feedback seeking
Authors: Arun Kumar P. , Nivethitha S. , Vilvanathan Lavanya 
Published: April 2024

PurposeGreen HRM practices in the hospitality sector are now receiving growing interest. However, the extent to which these practices contribute towards employee non-green workplace outcomes remains largely unknown. This study explores the relationships among green HRM practices, happiness at work, employee resilience, and feedback-seeking behaviour.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs two-wave data from a sample of 306 five-star hotel employees in India. Using partial least square-structural equation modelling, the relationships are tested.FindingsThe study’s results demonstrate that green HRM practices positively impact happiness at work, employee resilience, and feedback-seeking behaviour. Additionally, the relationship between green HRM practices and feedback-seeking behaviour and employee resilience is mediated by happiness at work.Research limitations/implicationsDrawing on the Job Demands-Resources Theory, Social Exchange Theory, and Broaden and Build theory, this paper proposes that green HRM practices can contribute to happiness at work, employee resilience, and feedback-seeking behaviour.Practical implicationsTo establish a positive connection between green HRM practices and employee outcomes, organizations must recognize the vital role played by happiness at work as a mediator. This means that organizations must implement green HRM practices and ensure their positive impact on employee happiness at work.Originality/valueThe originality of this research lies in its holistic approach to green HRM outcomes, suggesting that the benefits of these practices extend beyond environmental impacts to influence the psychological and behavioural dimensions of employees.
Continuity of care. Patient support from hospital-to-territory care plan: protected hospital discharges
Authors: Storace Cinzia , Esposito Serafina , Iannicelli Anna Maria , Bravaccio Carmela 
Published: April 2024

PurposeTo facilitate the reception and care of discharged patients, streamlining processes at the University Hospital and promoting a seamless transition to continuity of care services post-discharge.Design/methodology/approachHospitalised patients undergo the Blaylock risk assessment screening score (BRASS), a screening tool identifying those at risk of complex discharge.FindingsPre-pandemic, patients with a medium-to-high risk of complex discharge were predominantly discharged to their residence or long-term care facilities. During the pandemic, coinciding with an overall reduction in hospitalisation rates, there was a decrease in patients being discharged to their residence.Originality/valueThe analysis of discharges, with the classification of patients into risk groups, revealed a coherence between the BRASS score and the characteristics of the studied sample. This tool aids physicians in decision-making by identifying the need for a planned discharge in a systematic and organised manner, preventing the loss of crucial information.
Towards a robust approach for evidencing quality in higher education learning: The new CALOHEE model
Authors: Wagenaar Robert 
Published: April 2024

PurposeKey to transnational higher education (HE) cooperation is building trust to allow for seamless recognition of studies. Building on the Tuning Educational Structures initiative (2001) and lessons learnt from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)-Assessment of Learning Outcomes in Higher Education (AHELO) feasibility study, this paper offers a sophisticated approach developed by the European Union (EU)-co-financed project Measuring and Comparing Achievements of Learning Outcomes in Europe (CALOHEE). These evidence the quality and relevance of learning by applying transparent and reliable indicators at the overarching and disciplinary levels. The model results allow for transnational diagnostic assessments to identify the strength and weaknesses of degree programmes.Design/methodology/approachThe materials presented have been developed from 2016 to 2023, applying a bottom-up approach involving approximately 150 academics from 20+ European countries, reflecting the full spectrum of academic fields. Based on intensive face-to-face debate and consultation of stakeholders and anchored in academic literature and wide experience.FindingsAs a result, general (overarching) state-of-the-art reference frameworks have been prepared for the associated degree, bachelor, master and doctorate, as well as aligned qualifications reference frameworks and more detailed learning outcomes/assessment frameworks for 11 subject areas, offering a sound basis for quality assurance. As a follow-up, actual assessment formats for five academic fields have been developed to allow for measuring the actual level of learning at the institutional level from a comparative perspective.Originality/valueFrameworks as well as assessment models and items are highly innovative, content-wise as in the strategy of development, involving renown academics finding common ground. Its value is not limited to Europe but has global significance. The model developed, is also relevant for micro-credentials in defining levels of mastery.
Assessing the impact of big data analytics capability on radical innovation: is business intelligence always a path?
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Gao Yang , Liu Yexin 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThis study examines the mediating roles of the three dimensions of business intelligence (sensing capability, transforming capability and driving capability) in the relationship between the three dimensions of big data analytics capability (big data analytics management, technology and talent capabilities), and radical innovation among Chinese manufacturing enterprises.Design/methodology/approachA theoretical framework was developed using the resource-based view. The hypothesis was tested using empirical survey data from 326 Chinese manufacturing enterprises.FindingsEmpirical results show that, in the Chinese manufacturing context, business intelligence sensing capability, business intelligence transforming capability and business intelligence driving capability positively mediate the impact of big data analytics capability on radical innovation.Practical implicationsThe results offer managerial guidance for leaders to properly use big data analytics capability, business intelligence and radical innovation as well as offering theoretical insight for future research in the manufacturing industry’s radical innovation.Originality/valueThis is among the first studies to examine three dimensions of big data analytics capability on the manufacturing industry’s radical innovation by considering the mediating role of three dimensions of business intelligence.