bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sinorhizobium melilotifunctions required for resistance to antimicrobial NCR peptides and bacteroid differentiation
Authors: Nicoud Quentin , Barrière Quentin , Busset Nicolas , Dendene Sara , Travin Dmitrii , Bourge Mickaël , Bars Romain Le , Boulogne Claire , Lecroël Marie , Jenei Sándor , Kereszt Atilla , Kondorosi Eva , Biondi Emanuele G. , Timchenko Tatiana , Alunni Benoît , Mergaert Peter 
Published: December 2020

AbstractLegumes of theMedicagogenus form symbiosis with the bacteriumSinorhizobium melilotiand develop root nodules housing large numbers of the intracellular symbionts. Members of the Nodule-specific Cysteine Rich peptide (NCRs) family induce the endosymbionts into a terminal differentiated state. Individual cationic NCRs are antimicrobial peptides that have the capacity to kill the symbiont but the nodule cell environment prevents killing. Moreover, the bacterial broad-specificity peptide uptake transporter BacA and exopolysaccharides contribute to protect the endosymbionts against the toxic activity of NCRs. Here, we show that otherS. melilotifunctions participate in the protection of the endosymbionts, including an additional broad-specificity peptide uptake transporter encoded by theyejABEFgenes, lipopolysaccharide modifications mediated bylpsBandlpxXLas well asrpoH1, encoding a stress sigma factor. Mutants of these genes showin vitroa strain-specific increased sensitivity profile against a panel of NCRs and form nodules in which bacteroid differentiation is affected. ThelpsBmutant nodule bacteria do not differentiate, thelpxXLandrpoH1mutants form some seemingly fully differentiated bacteroids although most of the nodule bacteria are undifferentiated, while theyejABEFmutants form hypertrophied but nitrogen-fixing bacteroids. The nodule bacteria of all the mutants have a strongly enhanced membrane permeability, which is dependent on the transport of NCRs to the endosymbionts. Our results suggest thatS. melilotirelies on a suite of functions including peptide transporters, the bacterial envelope structures and stress response regulators to resist the aggressive assault of NCR peptides in the nodule cells.ImportanceThe nitrogen fixing symbiosis of legumes with rhizobium bacteria has a predominant ecological role in the nitrogen cycle and has the potential to provide the nitrogen required for plant growth in agriculture. The host plants allow the rhizobia to colonize specific symbiotic organs, the nodules, in large numbers in order to produce sufficient reduced nitrogen for the plant needs. Some legumes, includingMedicagospp., produce massively antimicrobial peptides to keep this large bacterial population in check. These peptides, known as NCRs, have the potential to kill the rhizobia but in nodules, they rather inhibit the division of the bacteria, which maintain a high nitrogen fixing activity. In this study, we show that the tempering of the antimicrobial activity of the NCR peptides in theMedicagosymbiontSinorhizobium melilotiis multifactorial and requires the YejABEF peptide transporter, the lipopolysaccharide outer membrane composition and the stress response regulator RpoH1.
Inferring spikes from calcium imaging in dopamine neurons
Authors: Fleming Weston , Jewell Sean , Engelhard Ben , Witten Daniela M. , Witten Ilana B. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractCalcium imaging has led to discoveries about neural correlates of behavior in subcortical neurons, including dopamine (DA) neurons. However, spike inference methods have not been tested in most populations of subcortical neurons. To address this gap, we simultaneously performed calcium imaging and electrophysiology in DA neurons in brain slices, and applied a recently developed spike inference algorithm to the GCaMP fluorescence. This revealed that individual spikes can be inferred accurately in this population. Next, we inferred spikes in vivo from calcium imaging from these neurons during Pavlovian conditioning, as well as during navigation in virtual reality. In both cases, we quantitatively recapitulated previous in vivo electrophysiological observations. Our work provides a validated approach to infer spikes from calcium imaging in DA neurons, and implies that aspects of both tonic and phasic spike patterns can be recovered.
Sustained postsynaptic kainate receptor activation downregulates AMPA receptor surface expression and induces hippocampal LTD
Authors: Nair Jithin D. , Braksator Ellen , Yucel Busra P , Seager Richard , Mellor Jack R. , Bashir Zafar I. , Wilkinson Kevin A. , Henley Jeremy M. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractHere we report that sustained activation of GluK2 subunit-containing kainate receptors leads to AMPA receptor endocytosis and a novel form of long-term depression (KAR-LTDAMPAR) in hippocampal neurons. The KAR-evoked loss of surface AMPA receptors requires KAR channel activity and is occluded by the blockade of PKC or PKA. Moreover, in acute hippocampal slices, kainate invoked LTD of AMPA EPSCs. These data, together with our previously reported KAR-LTPAMPAR, demonstrate that KARs bidirectionally regulate synaptic AMPARs and synaptic plasticity.
RNF8 is not required for histone-to-protamine exchange in spermiogenesis
Authors: Abe Hironori , Meduri Rajyalakshmi , Li Ziwei , Andreassen Paul R. , Li Xin Zhiguo , Namekawa Satoshi H. 
Published: December 2020

SummaryA member of the PIWI family of proteins, MIWI, binds to Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) and is essential in mouse spermiogenesis. A recent study demonstrated that MIWI is an essential regulator of the histone-to-protamine exchange in spermiogenesis and that this function is mediated by its binding to an ubiquitin ligase, RNF8. However, here we confirm that RNF8 is not required for histone-to-protamine exchange in spermiogenesis. We show that histone-to-protamine exchange takes place inRnf8-deficient mice, while RNF8 mediates ubiquitination of H2A on the sex chromosomes in meiosis, the prior stage of spermatogenesis. Therefore, the infertile phenotype of MIWI mutant mice cannot be explained by a RNF8-mediated mechanism in spermiogenesis.
Atypical DNA methylation, sRNA size distribution and female gametogenesis correlate with genome compaction inUtricularia gibba
Authors: Cervantes-Pérez Sergio Alan , Yong-Villalobos Lenin , Florez-Zapata Nathalia M. V. , Oropeza-Aburto Araceli , Rico-Reséndiz Félix , Amasende-Morales Itzel , Lan Tianying , Martínez Octavio , Vielle-Calzada Jean Philippe , Albert Victor A. , Herrera-Estrella Luis 
Published: December 2020

SummaryThe most studied DNA methylation pathway in plants is the RNA Directed DNA Methylation (RdDM), which is a conserved mechanism that involves noncoding-RNAs to control the expansion of intergenic regions. However, little is known about relationship between plant genome size reductions and DNA methylation.Because the compact genome size of the carnivorous plantUtricularia gibba,we investigate in this plant the noncoding-RNA landscape and DNA methylation through a combination of cytological, evolutionary, and genome-wide transcriptomic and methylation approaches.We report an unusual distribution of noncoding RNAs inU. gibbain comparison with other characterized angiosperms, which correlated with a lower level of global genome methylation, as determined by a novel strategy based on long-read DNA sequencing and corroborated by whole-genome bisulfite analysis. Moreover, found that genes involved in the RdDM pathway may not be functionally active inU. gibba, including a truncatedDICER-LIKE 3 (DCL3),involved in the production of 24-nt small-RNAs.Our findings suggest that selective pressure to conserve a fully functional RdDM pathway might be reduced in compact genomes and a defectiveDCL3correlate with a decreased proportion of 24-nt small-RNAs and developmental alterations inU. gibba, which could represent an initial step in the evolution of apomixis.
Molecular structure of the intact bacterial flagellar basal body
Authors: Johnson Steven , Furlong Emily J. , Deme Justin C. , Nord Ashley L. , Caesar Joseph , Chevance Fabienne F.V. , Berry Richard M. , Hughes Kelly T. , Lea Susan M. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBacterial flagella self-assemble a strong, multi-component drive shaft that couples rotation in the inner membrane to the microns-long flagellar filament that powers bacterial swimming in viscous fluids. We here present structures of the intact Salmonella flagellar basal body, solved using cryo-electron microscopy to resolutions between 2.2 and 3.7 Å. The structures reveal molecular details of how 173 protein molecules of 13 different types assemble into a complex spanning two membranes and a cell wall. The helical drive shaft at one end is intricately interwoven with the inner membrane rotor component, and at the other end passes through a molecular bearing that is anchored in the outer membrane via interactions with the lipopolysaccharide. The in situ structure of a protein complex capping the drive shaft provides molecular insight into the assembly process of this molecular machine.
Organisational processes and COVID-19 pandemic: implications for job design
Authors: Alam Manzurul 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
This is a reflective essay on how lockdowns during COVID-19 pandemic have exposed internal organisational processes and work practices.

Design/methodology/approach
The essay is based on the author's reflections on organisational work practices during the coronavirus mandatory social distancing period.

Findings
This reflective essay shows how COVID-19 pandemic challenges the existing organisational systems and processes. It produces thoughtful considerations of different options for managing organisational activities in the post-COVID-19 period.

Research limitations/implications
The reflective essay underscores various issues relating to organisational job design and work practices and the impact on future management accounting research.

Originality/value
This essay provides personal insight into how the recent pandemic influences organizational work practices.
Understanding incubation during foreign market entry: lessons learnt from an illustrative Danish case study
Authors: Gretzinger Susanne , Ulrich Anna Marie Dyhr , Hollensen Svend , Leick Birgit 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
This paper aims to discuss business incubation to enter foreign markets in Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) countries through the lens of an “international business incubator” (IBI). International market expansion offers huge opportunities for companies to increase their revenue, but there are also challenging tasks such as the establishment of a business company and the occupation of a strategic position abroad. Practitioners consider this process as the act of incubation, but the theoretical discussion lags behind the practice-led debate.

Design/methodology/approach
An illustrative, and theory-led, case study is presented that describes market expansion to BRIC countries through a network-based IBI. The empirical case is an illustrative Danish company with international operations in BRIC countries both with and without an IBI.

Findings
International business incubation represents a process, which can be influenced through an IBI, and business networking during foreign market entry is shaped by IBI brokerage (bridging, bonding and protecting) in different phases. IBI activities that are embedded in business networking support a company’s endeavours in getting a foothold and acquiring a strategic position in BRIC markets and facilitates the market penetration.

Research limitations/implications
The IBI’s activities to enter foreign markets should be thoroughly managed. Further studies should be conducted with cross-case comparisons and larger samples to reflect on the propositions established.

Originality/value
By linking the business networking theory with the practice-led understanding of business incubation, the study explores an under-conceptualised topic for international business and entrepreneurship scholars. The paper offers an initial understanding of how brokerage interacts with incubation during the entry of new markets.
The booming eSports market: a field day for fans
Authors: Lehnert Kevin , Walz Anna , Christianson Ryan 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
This paper aims to explore the emerging market of video game streaming and eSports to provide readers with an understanding of the nature and content of this quickly growing entertainment industry. eSports or eGaming is the playing of video games for competition and for spectators by professionals. Popular platforms, eGaming celebrities and revenue sources are introduced. Building upon this knowledge, the authors then show the opportunities marketers have to use this medium for branding, promotional and retailing purposes. Challenges to these aims are also discussed.

Design/methodology/approach
The eGaming and eSports industry is summarized by studying its evolution and current state. A thorough review of the players and their possible revenue sources is presented. Likewise, a survey of marketing-related tactics and challenges is discussed to help readers not only understand the field but also use the industry’s growth.

Findings
This paper provides valuable information to understand why this new market of video game streaming is rapidly increasing and what impact it will have on consumers, brands and marketing strategists.

Originality/value
This paper is unique in the sense that in one place it not only summarizes the advent and growth of an evolving field but also shows the opportunities that firms have to take advantage of this unique medium for connecting with customers. Firms are at the same time cautioned to consider increasing challenges with this new industry.
Escaping the niche: how one company broke the mold
Authors: Srikant Chethan D. , Donovan Patrick 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
Companies may spend capital and effort to ensure the survival within their niche but have limited capacity to expand into other niches or broaden their target segment. This paper aims to provide insights into how they can overcome this niche entrapment – companies becoming trapped in the very niche they have cultivated, the weight and inertia of their investment shackling them to its continued existence.

Design/methodology/approach
Cedar Fair’s acquisitions and its organizational structure are carefully examined to illustrate the need for considering niche entrapment as a concept. To understand the complexities that firms face in their attempts to overcome the niche entrapment, this paper analyzes Cedar Fair using the concepts of categories and inherited identities.

Findings
The following important lessons are elaborated for helping business organizations overcome niche entrapment: embrace the organizational complexity; use gateway and complementary identities; consider brand disassociation; and achieve ambidexterity through a portfolio of offering.

Originality/value
This paper deviates from the traditional treatment of niches as a focus strategy that firms can select to build competitive advantages but instead provides insights into how those very niches can become constraints. It also conceptually evaluates the attempts to overcome these constraints from an organizational perspective instead of an industry perspective. Apart from using categories in a novel way, it also introduces a new concept of inherited identities, which are the organizational identities that firms inherit as they acquire and assimilate other firms.
Students with severe anxiety during COVID-19 lockdown – exploring the impact and its management
Authors: Faize Fayyaz Ahmad , Husain Waqar 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
COVID-19 generated extensive fear and anxiety across the globe. This study aims to explore the psychological dynamics of students during COVID-19 lockdown, its impact and students’ management strategies.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper collected data from 891 students in Islamabad (Pakistan) using an online survey consisting of the generalized anxiety disorder scale and items on academic variables. After measuring the anxiety levels, this paper interviewed 20 students diagnosed with severe anxiety. The objective was to seek a deeper understanding of the impact of COVID-19 and students’ management.

Findings
This paper found students with different anxiety levels. Most students had no anxiety; however, 8.2% of students had severe anxiety. These students reported psychological, social and physical problems during the interview. The students shared their activities and avoidance behavior to manage their anxiety levels.

Originality/value
The study helped in understanding the psychological dynamics during the pandemic and students’ management strategies. Some students express their inability to cope with their problems. This paper recommends the intervention of clinical practitioners, policymakers and researchers to work for the mental health of such students.
Italian supreme court ruling on the criteria to apply corporate liability: an overview of the implications for foreign financial institutions operating in Italy
Authors: Falco Francesco , Arcidiacono Chiara 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
To analyze the Italian Supreme Court decision (case no. 11626/2020) and its potential implications for foreign financial institutions operating in Italy.

Design/methodology/approach
This article provides firstly a brief description of Decree 231/2001 and of its application to financial institutions, then a description of the Italian Supreme Court decision and, lastly, a set of inputs to foreign financial institutions operating in Italy.

Findings
Following the decision under review, where the further conditions set out in the Decree 231/2001 are met, entities are liable under the same Decree when a relevant offense occurs in Italy – or there is Italian jurisdiction – regardless of their nationality, the localization of their registered office, the place where they predominantly carry out their business or whether there are rules governing the same matter in the State of origin.

Practical implications
Following the decision under review, foreign financial institutions operating in Italy should adopt and implement the control measures required by the Decree 231/2001 in order to avoid incurring the relevant sanctions.

Originality/value
This is an analysis of the potential practical implications for foreign financial institutions operating in Italy of a decision issued by the Italian Supreme Court that may also provide useful advice to mitigate the potential risks linked to it.
Comparison of regulatory regimes for closed-ended private investment funds: Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands
Authors: Hodson Kate , Wong Alan , Schilder Simon 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
To introduce, compare and contrast the new regulatory regimes for closed-ended funds recently enacted in the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

Design/methodology/approach
Explores similarities and differences between the two regimes, as well as practical implications for fund managers, with respect to (1) the regulatory frameworks governing the funds; (2) the definitions of the types of funds covered by the regulations; (3) registration requirements and associated timing; (4) operating requirements, including responsibilities for portfolio management, valuation and safekeeping of fund property; the number of directors; audits; valuation procedures; safekeeping of fund assets; cash monitoring; identification of securities; offering documents, term sheets and marketing materials; and representation in the respective jurisdictions; and (5) additional requirements, including numbers and qualifications of investors.

Findings
The new legislation has been enacted in order to respond to certain European Union and other international recommendations and has the effect of aligning the regulatory regimes applicable to such funds structured in Cayman and BVI to the regulatory regimes applicable to such funds in other jurisdictions.

Originality/Value
Expert guidance from lawyers with extensive experience in fund management, fund structuring and Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands laws and regulations.
The importance of distance and attraction in patronizing a shopping mall
Authors: Thanasi-Boçe Marsela , Kwiatek Piotr , Labadze Lasha 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to establish mall attractiveness factors in Kuwait, examine the relationship between mall dimensions and mall patronage and explore the impact of mall size and distance on mall patronage.

Design/methodology/approach
Data from 190 shopping mall visitors were analyzed using Stata software. Factor analysis was used to identify the mall attraction factors, and regression models were run to analyze their relationships with people’s frequency of visits to shopping malls and the amount of time spent per visit.

Findings
The results unearth five important factors, namely, performance of buying, entertainment, social activities, physical atmosphere and location. Analysis reveals that the performance of buying and social activities factors had a significant impact on the frequency of visits, while the amount of time spent per visit was significantly affected only by the social activities factor. Furthermore, mall size is more important than distance to the mall. Finally, gender differences in shoppers’ mall preferences and behaviors were reported.

Practical implications
On the practical level, shopping mall developers and managers can use the attraction scale to develop attractive malls and effective marketing strategies. Researchers can use findings to confirm the factors extracted in the study and for further research on the topic.

Originality/value
This study extends theories on consumers’ preferences and behaviors. It provides empirical evidence about the impact of attractive mall dimensions on shoppers’ patronage in Kuwait, an understudied context.
The tipping point: mitigating the curvilinear effect of frontline service employee's perception of leadership humility on frontline service performance
Authors: Bin Devin , Sok Keo Mony , Sok Phyra , Mao Sonariddh 
Published: December 2020

PurposePrior studies have mainly advanced the understanding of a linear relationship between leadership humility and employee work outcomes, mediated and/or moderated by various individual, team and organizational variables. This study attempts to advance prior knowledge by investigating a potential curvilinear relationship between leadership humility and frontline service employee (FSE) performance and the role of FSE's psychological capital (PsyCap) in attenuating this curvilinear relationship.Design/methodology/approachSurvey data were drawn from a survey sample of 273 FSEs working in the hospitality industry of the United States of America. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was used to test the proposed hypotheses.FindingsThe results uncover the existence of a tipping point in the relationship between leader humility and FSE performance; that is, humble behaviors expressed by leaders positively influence FSE performance up to the tipping point beyond which FSE performance starts to diminish. However, this curvilinear effect is attenuated when FSE's PsyCap is high but not when it is low.Practical implicationsThe findings provide service managers with insights into the importance of balancing their humble behaviors to yield optimal FSE performance. Furthermore, the paper points to the need for FSE's PsyCap cultivation within service firms so that FSEs are less dependent on their supervisors and can deliver highly satisfactory results.Originality/valueThis research is one of the very first to investigate the curvilinear relationship between leader humility and FSE performance and the moderating role of PsyCap in attenuating the curvilinear effect.