bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differential requirement for the EDS1 catalytic triad inA. thalianaandN. benthamiana
Authors: Zönnchen Josua , Gantner Johannes , Lapin Dmitry , Barthel Karen , Eschen-Lippold Lennart , Zantop Stefan , Kretschmer Carola , Parker Jane E. , Guerois Raphael , Stuttmann Johannes 
Published: December 2021

SummaryHeterodimeric complexes incorporating the lipase-like proteins EDS1 with PAD4 or SAG101 are central hubs in plant innate immunity. EDS1 functions encompass signal relay from TIR domain-containing intracellular NLR-type immune receptors (TNLs) towards RPW8-type helper NLRs (RNLs) and, inA. thaliana, bolstering of signaling and resistance mediated by cell-surface pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Biochemical activities underlying these mechanistic frameworks remain unknown.We used CRISPR/Cas-generated mutant lines and agroinfiltration-based complementation assays to interrogate functions of EDS1 complexes inN. benthamiana.We do not detect impaired PRR signaling inN. benthamianalines deficient in EDS1 complexes or RNLs. Intriguingly, mutations within the catalytic triad ofSolanaceaeEDS1 can abolish or enhance TNL immunity inN. benthamiana. Furthermore, nuclear EDS1 accumulation is sufficient forN. benthamianaTNL (Roq1) immunity.Reinforcing PRR signaling in Arabidopsis might be a derived function of the TNL/EDS1 immune sector. Dependency ofSolanaceaebut notA. thalianaEDS1 on catalytic triad residues raises the possibility that a TNL-derived small molecule binds to theSolanaceaeEDS1 lipase-like domain, and that EDS1 lipase-like domain pocket contributions to TNL immune responses vary between lineages. Whether and how nuclear EDS1 activity connects to membrane pore-forming RNLs remains unknown.
Enabling inference for context-dependent models of mutation by bounding the propagation of dependency
Authors: Matsen Frederick A , Ralph Peter L 
Published: December 2021

AbstractAlthough the rates at which positions in the genome mutate are known to depend not only on the nucleotide to be mutated, but also on neighboring nucleotides, it remains challenging to do phylogenetic inference using models of context-dependent mutation. In these models, the effects of one mutation may in principle propagate to faraway locations, making it difficult to compute exact likelihoods. This paper shows how to use bounds on the propagation of dependency to compute likelihoods of mutation of a given segment of genome by marginalizing over sufficiently long flanking sequence. This can be used for maximum likelihood or Bayesian inference. Protocols examining residuals and iterative model refinement are also discussed. Tools for efficiently working with these models are provided in an R package, that could be used in other applications. The method is used to examine context dependence of mutations since the common ancestor of humans and chimpanzee.
Mitotic spindle formation in the absence of Polo kinase
Authors: Kim Juyoung , Goshima Gohta 
Published: December 2021

AbstractMitosis is a fundamental process in every eukaryote, in which chromosomes are segregated into two daughter cells by the action of the microtubule (MT)-based spindle. Despite this common principle, genes essential for mitosis are variable among organisms. This indicates that the loss of essential genes or bypass-of-essentiality (BOE) occurred multiple times during evolution. While many BOE relationships have been recently revealed experimentally, the BOE of mitosis regulators (BOE-M) has been scarcely reported and how this occurs remains largely unknown. Here, by mutagenesis and subsequent evolutionary repair experiments, we isolated viable fission yeast strains that lacked the entire coding region of Polo-like kinase (Plk), a versatile essential mitotic kinase. The BOE of Plk was enabled by specific mutations in the downstream machinery, including the MT-nucleating γ-tubulin complex, and more surprisingly, through downregulation of glucose uptake, which is not readily connected to mitosis. The latter bypass was dependent on casein kinase I (CK1), which has not been considered as a major mitotic regulator. Our genetic and phenotypic data suggest that CK1 constitutes an alternative mechanism of MT nucleation, which is normally dominated by Plk. A similar relationship was observed in a human colon cancer cell line. Thus, our study shows that BOE-M can be achieved by simple genetic or environmental changes, consistent with the occurrence of BOE-M during evolution. Furthermore, the identification of BOE-M constitutes a powerful means to uncover a hitherto under-studied mechanism driving mitosis and also hints at the limitations and solutions for selecting chemotherapeutic compounds targeting mitosis.
Waning of mRNA-1273 vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 infection in Qatar
Authors: Abu-Raddad Laith J. , Chemaitelly Hiam , Ayoub Houssein H. , Yassine Hadi M. , Benslimane Fatiha M. , Al Khatib Hebah A. , Tang Patrick , Hasan Mohammad R. , Coyle Peter , Kanaani Zaina Al , Kuwari Einas Al , Jeremijenko Andrew , Kaleeckal Anvar Hassan , Latif Ali Nizar , Shaik Riyazuddin Mohammad , Abdul Rahim Hanan F. , Nasrallah Gheyath K. , Al Kuwari Mohamed Ghaith , Butt Adeel A. , Al Romaihi Hamad Eid , Al-Thani Mohamed H. , Khal Abdullatif Al , Bertollini Roberto 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBACKGROUNDIn early 2021, Qatar launched a mass immunization campaign with Moderna’s mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine. We assessed persistence of real-world mRNA-1273 effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 infection and against COVID-19 hospitalization and death.METHODSEffectiveness was estimated using test-negative, case-control study design, between January 1 and December 5, 2021. Effectiveness was estimated against documented infection (a PCR-positive swab, regardless symptoms), and against any severe (acute-care hospitalization), critical (ICU hospitalization), or fatal COVID-19.RESULTSBy December 5, 2021, 2,962 breakthrough infections had been recorded among those who received two mRNA-1273 doses. Of these infections, 19 progressed to severe COVID-19 and 4 to critical, but none to fatal disease. mRNA-1273 effectiveness against infection was negligible for the first two weeks after the first dose, increased to 65.5% (95% CI: 62.7-68.0%) 14 or more days after the first dose, and reached its peak at about 90% in the first three months after the second dose. Effectiveness declined gradually starting from the fourth month after the second dose and was below 50% by the 7th month after the second dose. Effectiveness against severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 reached its peak at essentially 100% right after the second dose, and there was no evidence for declining effectiveness over time. Effectiveness against symptomatic versus asymptomatic infection demonstrated the same pattern of waning, but effectiveness against symptomatic infection was consistently higher than that against asymptomatic infection and waned more slowly.CONCLUSIONSmRNA-1273-induced protection against infection appears to wane month by month after the second dose. Meanwhile, protection against hospitalization and death appears robust with no evidence for waning for several months after the second dose.
Color, microstructure, physicochemical, textural and sensory properties with the retention of secondary metabolites in convective-, microwave- and freeze-dried carrot (Daucus carota) slices
Authors: Yildiz Gulcin 
Published: December 2021

Purpose This work was undertaken to evaluate the impact of different drying methods (convective, microwave and freeze drying) on color, selected secondary metabolites (total phenolic substances, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene and antioxidant capacity), texture (hardness), sensory properties and microstructure of carrot slices.Design/methodology/approachConvective drying at three different temperatures (55, 65 and 75 °C), microwave drying at two different power levels (100 and 200 W) and freeze drying were applied.FindingsSignificant differences were found among fresh and dried-carrot slices. Convective-dried carrots showed better quality characteristics in comparison with microwave-dried carrots. The convective-dried carrots at 65 °C exhibited the highest retention of bioactive compounds and best color among all convective drying conditions. The microwave-dried carrot slices at lower power (100 W) showed higher quality characteristics compared to the dried carrots at 200 W. The freeze-dried carrots exhibited the highest retention of secondary metabolites, sensory properties and best color among all drying methods.Originality/value The results from this study are significant for the processing of dried carrots by optimizing the conditions to obtain a high-quality product. Overall, freeze drying is a promising application as shown in the present study by its capability to better retention carrot quality underlying color, sensory, texture, microstructure and secondary metabolites.
The challenges of presenting traditional music in gastronomic establishments – the case of Slovenian Istria
Authors: Sedmak Gorazd 
Published: December 2021

Purpose
Through investigation and comparisons between tourists and restaurant managers regarding their understanding of traditional music and their attitudes, expectations and assigned importance to it, this paper aims to identify the most problematic aspects of the (non)inclusion of traditional music in restaurant settings in tourist destinations.

Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected through a field survey of tourists and managers/owners of catering establishments in the four municipalities of Slovenian Istria.

Findings
The results show that tourists attach a relatively high importance to this element of cultural heritage and that it is not sufficiently included in the overall product of the destination and in the catering establishments. Differences in the understanding of traditional music between the two groups were also found.

Research limitations/implications
The research limitations are, namely, a relatively small sample of managers for the quantitative analysis, the particular nature of the chosen destination which does not allow generalization of the results and finally, the study was conducted in the high season when the structure of tourists is significantly different compared to that in the mid and low season.

Practical implications
The findings bring some useful insights into tourists’ expectations and understanding of traditional music as part of the tourism experience for catering establishments’ managers and destination management organizations. By addressing the identified gaps, they can enrich the overall tourism product of the destination, while catering operators can achieve better business results.

Social implications
The more frequent and cogent inclusion of traditional music in the hospitality sector would provide a new social function and raison d'être for this segment of cultural heritage, which is in danger of being forgotten in many tourist destinations.

Originality/value
This research addresses a widely overlooked area of two interrelated fields of research, namely, hospitality and cultural heritage. Unlike the majority of previous research on this topic, which only involves actual guests, the present research is designed as a comprehensive investigation and comparison of the attitudes of the general population of actual tourists in the destination (as potential guests of the inns/restaurants) and managers of catering businesses operating in the destination.
Modelling research productivity of university researchers using research incentives to crowd-in motivation
Authors: Masinde Muthoni , Coetzee Johan 
Published: December 2021

PurposeThe overall aim of this research is to propose a research incentive framework for academic staff members at the South African universities of technology (UoTs).Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory case study methodology was applied, while a questionnaire was used to (1) identify the factors that stimulated staff members' research activities; (2) assess what was considered an appropriate way of measuring research productivity and (3) identify appropriate research awards, recognition and rewards. Working from the self-determination theory (SDT), the results of the data analysis were used to develop a framework for ensuring crowding-in of research incentives into intrinsic motivation. This framework is anchored on the three main components (competence, autonomy and social relatedness) of the cognitive evaluation theory (CET) that provides guidelines for the design of a research incentive system.FindingsIntrinsically motivated researchers tend to conduct research for their inherent satisfaction because it meets their basic individual psychological need for competence. Existing research incentives and productivity systems fail to provide intrinsic motivation for researchers. Recommendation for a framework for designing research incentive systems is centred on the researchers themselves. This approach contributes to a research environment that provides space for autonomy, creativity, flexibility and innovation and consequently a successful research output that is hinged on the ability to keep researchers intrinsically motivated.Originality/valueA conceptual framework is proposed specifically for technically focused UoT suggesting that crowding-in the motivation of researcher incentives results in improved intrinsic-based motivation. The autonomy of researchers in particular is regarded as the most important driver of such motivation, with the availability of resources, collegiality and research skills and development ranking as the most important aspects specifically driving intrinsic motivation. The framework not only provides a tool for institutions of higher education focused on developing the technical skills, but also offers management at any type of university challenged with low research outputs and a poor research ethos with an alternative method to improve both the quantity and quality of research outputs.
Microfinance institutions' risk and governance in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Tadele Haileslasie , Roberts Helen , Whiting Rosalind 
Published: December 2021

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore the impact of MFI-level governance on microfinance institutions' (MFIs’) risk in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).Design/methodology/approachThe study uses data from a sample of 151 MFIs operating in 21 SSA countries during 2005–2014. The Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) regression model is applied to investigate the relationship between MFI level governance mechanisms and risk.FindingsThe study provides new evidence that board characteristics have differential effects on for-profit (FP) and not-for-profit (NFP) MFI risk. Board independence reduces credit risk of NFP MFIs. Foreign director presence increases MFI failure risk. Furthermore, greater female director representation reduces (increases) FP (NFP) financial risk whereas female CEOs are associated with higher (lower) FP (NFP) financial risk.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to existing literature on microfinance governance and risk, by exploring the impact of governance on MFI risk based on MFIs profit orientation. In addition, the study uses three different risk measures unlike previous microfinance studies.
Child sexual exploitation, poly-victimisation and resilience
Authors: Alderson Kirsty , Ireland Carol A. , Khan Roxanne , Ireland Jane L. , Lewis Michael 
Published: December 2021

Purpose
This paper aims to examine the prevalence of child sexual exploitation (CSE) and factors connected in a young adult population, through a series of connected studies. Each study considered exposure to poly-victimisation. The series of studies focussed on a number of factors felt to impact vulnerability and protective factors towards CSE. Specifically caregiver bonds, resilience and attachment style, adolescent risk-taking, quality of caregiver bonds, level/type of supportive relationships and positive schemas, as well as the impact of CSE disclosure and links to attachment style and maladaptive schemas.

Design/methodology/approach
These studies looked at a young adult population, mainly women. Study one (n = 263), study two (n = 138) and study three (n = 211), predominantly collected via a series of online measures.

Findings
Findings demonstrated that around half of children under 16 years had been approached sexually by an adult, with approximately one in four children subsequently exploited. Various results were noted, such as experiencing a primary caregiver as lacking in warmth and affection was associated with those reporting CSE, with further exposure to poly-victimisation contributing to a less functional coping style and insecure attachments. CSE was not associated with higher levels of adolescent risk-taking, poor bonds with the primary caregiver, fewer important childhood relationships and positive schemas.

Practical implications
This paper notes the importance of addressing the functions of behaviours for victims, to reduce re-victimisation risk. It noted the importance of applying theory when working with this population. It introduced the protect and vulnerability model against CSE and has practical applications for professionals working with victims of CSE. This paper argues the importance of individualised assessments for children who are deemed to be “at-risk” of CSE.

Originality/value
Findings were combined to propose the protection against the CSE model and the application of this to intervention and future research is acknowledged.
Choice between rights issue and private placements of equity and the role of information asymmetry
Authors: Sony Bipin , Bhaduri Saumitra 
Published: December 2021

PurposeThe objective of this paper is to investigate the role of information asymmetry in the equity selling mechanisms chosen by the firms from an important emerging market, India. Specifically, the authors look into the choice between the two most popular mechanisms of equity issues – rights issue and private placement of equity.Design/methodology/approachThis study introduces three analyst specific variables as proxies of information asymmetry as the conventional proxies are fraught with several disadvantages. First, the paper tests the choice between rights issue and private placement using a binary logistic model. In the second approach the authors use rights issue and segregate the private placements into preferential allotments and qualified institutional placements and test the impact of information asymmetry using a multinomial logistic regression.FindingsThe outcome of this empirical exercise shows that only those firms facing lesser information problems choose rights issue of equity. Private placements are chosen by firms facing higher information problems to circumvent information costs. The results remain invariant even after segregating the qualified institutional placements from private equity placement as the firms with information disadvantage choose to place equity privately.Originality/valueIn contrast to the conventional studies that focus on the debt-equity framework, the authors argue that the impact of information asymmetry is applicable even at disaggregated levels of equity selling mechanism.
Corporate social responsibility and SME performance: a meta-analysis
Authors: Oduro Stephen , Adhal Nguar Kot David , De Nisco Alessandro , Alharthi Rami Hashem E. , Maccario Guglielmo , Bruno Lara 
Published: December 2021

PurposeThis study aims to draw on instrumental and ethical theories to offer a quantitative review of the extant literature on the corporate social responsibility (CSR)–small-medium enterprises (SMEs) performance relationship through a meta-analysis.Design/methodology/approachEmpirical studies from 57 independent peer-reviewed articles, including 66,741 firms, were sampled and analysed. Both subgroup and meta-regression analyses (MARA) were used to test the hypotheses of the study.FindingsThe authors' results demonstrated that social-oriented, economic-oriented and environment-oriented CSR activities have a positive, significant influence on overall, financial and non-financial performance of SMEs; however, the effect of social-oriented CSR activities is the strongest. Moreover, the impact CSR dimensions have on non-financial performance is stronger than on financial performance. Additionally, findings showed that the association between CSR and SME performance is positively and significantly influenced by contextual factors (i.e. sector and region of study) and methodological factors (i.e. performance measurement, study type, theory usage, sampling size and operationalisation of constructs).Originality/valueThe study is the pioneering meta-analytic review on the CSR–SME performance relationship, thereby clarifying the anecdotal results, synthesising the fragmented empirical studies and exploring the contextual and methodological factors that may account for between-study variance. Following the study's findings, the authors delineate insightful suggestions for future scholarship and fine-grained managerial implications for practitioners.
Effects of garlic supplementation and its derivatives on body weight and composition in adults: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Panbehkar-Jouybari Monireh , Mollahosseini Mehdi , Panjeshahin Asieh , Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh 
Published: December 2021

Purpose
Garlic supplementation may be inversely contributed to body weight and composition; however, previous results have been inconsistent. This study aims to evaluate the effect of garlic supplementation on body weight and composition using a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Design/methodology/approach
Online databases of PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched up to January 2020. The random-effects model was used to calculate the effect sizes of the included studies. The risk of bias of included studies was assessed using the Cochrane collaboration’s tool. Besides, the NutriGrade scoring system was applied to judge the credibility of the evidence.

Findings
In total, 18 studies (with 1,250 participants) were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled analysis revealed that garlic supplementation has a significant increase in body weight [weighted mean difference (WMD) = 0.31 Kg, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.53 Kg, P = 0.005, n = 12 effect sizes]. Waist circumference (WC) does remarkably reduce [WMD = −1.28 cm, 95% CI: −2.08, −0.47 cm, P = 0.002, n = 4 effect size]. However, body mass index, body fat percent and fat-free mass do not dramatically change (P > 0.05). Notably, the pooled analyses on body weight and WC were sensitive to two included studies. NutriGrade’s score was rated low for this meta-analysis.

Originality/value
Although garlic supplementation could slightly increase weight and simultaneously might decrease WC, these associations were not strong enough to corroborate the findings. Also, other anthropometric indices do not significantly change. Further well-designed randomized clinical trial studies are needed to confirm the results.