bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
GroEL/ES chaperonin unfolds then encapsulates a nascent protein on the ribosome
Authors: Roeselová Alžběta , Maslen Sarah L. , He Jessica Zhiyun , Jurkeviciute Gabija , Mark Skehel J. , Enchev Radoslav , Balchin David 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe bacterial chaperonin GroEL/ES promotes protein folding post-translation by transiently encapsulating substrate proteins within a central chamber. GroEL also binds translating ribosomesin vivo, suggesting an additional role in cotranslational folding. Here, we used biochemical reconstitution, structural proteomics and electron microscopy to study the mechanism by which GroEL/ES engages nascent polypeptides. We show that GroEL binds nascent chains on the inside of its cavity via the apical domains and disordered C-terminal tails, resulting in local structural destabilization of the substrate. Ribosome-tethered nascent proteins are partially encapsulated upon GroES binding to GroEL, and refold in the chaperonin cavity. Reconstitution of chaperone competition at the ribosome shows that both Trigger factor and GroEL can be accommodated on long nascent chains, but GroEL and DnaK are mutually antagonistic. Our findings extend the role of GroEL/ES inde novoprotein folding, and reveal an unexpected plasticity of the chaperonin mechanism that allows cotranslational substrate encapsulation.
Therapeutic Tumor Macrophage Reprogramming in Breast Cancer Through a Peptide-Drug Conjugate
Authors: Lepland Anni , Peranzoni Elisa , Haljasorg Uku , Asciutto Eliana K. , Crespí-Amer Maria , Modesti Lorenzo , Kilk Kalle , Lombardia Manuel , Acosta Gerardo , Royo Miriam , Peterson Pärt , Marigo Ilaria , Teesalu Tambet , Scodeller Pablo 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTIn triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), pro-tumoral macrophages promote metastasis and suppress the immune response. To target these cells, we engineered a previously identified CD206 (mannose receptor)-binding peptide, mUNO, to enhance its affinity and proteolytic stability. The new rationally designed peptide, MACTIDE, includes a trypsin inhibitor loop, from the Sunflower Trypsin Inhibitor-I. Binding studies to recombinant CD206 revealed a 15-fold lower KDfor MACTIDE compared to parental mUNO. Additionally, mass spectrometry showed a 5-fold increase in half-life in tumor lysate for MACTIDE compared to mUNO. Homing studies in TNBC-bearing mice showed that fluorescein (FAM)-MACTIDE precisely targeted CD206+tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) upon intravenous, intraperitoneal and even oral administration, with no significant accumulation in liver. We coupled MACTIDE to the FDA-approved drug Verteporfin, an established photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy and inhibitor of the YAP/TAZ pathway, to generate a conjugate here referred to as MACTIDE-V. In the orthotopic 4T1 TNBC mouse model, non-irradiated MACTIDE-V-treated mice unexpectedly showed a similar anti-tumoral effect and fewer signs of toxicity as irradiated MACTIDE-V-treated mice, leading to subsequent studies on the laser-independent activity of this conjugate.In vitrostudies using bone-marrow derived mouse macrophages showed that MACTIDE-V excluded YAP from the nucleus, increased the phagocytic activity and upregulated several genes associated with cytotoxic anti-tumoral macrophages. In mouse models of TNBC, MACTIDE-V slowed primary tumor growth, suppressed lung metastases, increased markers of phagocytosis and antigen presentation in TAMs and monocytes, increasing the tumor infiltration of several lymphocyte subsets. We therefore propose MACTIDE-V as a useful peptide-drug conjugate to modulate macrophage function in the context of breast tumor immunotherapy.
Test-retest reliability of TMS motor evoked responses and silent periods during explosive voluntary isometric contractions
Authors: Castelli F. , Mian O.S. , Bruton A. , Chembila Valappil A.C. , Tillin N.A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractPurposeThis study assessed the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CV) test-retest reliability of TMS responses MEPs and silent periods at early, middle, and late phases of the rising time-torque curve during explosive voluntary contractions. We also investigated how the number of consecutively averaged measurements over 3 to 15 separate contractions influenced reliability.MethodsOn two separate occasions 3-7 days apart, 14 adults completed 48 isometric explosives (1-s) contractions of the knee extensors, superimposed with TMS. The TMS elicited an MEP and silent period in the quadriceps muscles at 45 (early), 115 (middle), or 190 ms (late) during each contraction. TMS was also superimposed at the plateau of 15 separate MVCs. Test-retest ICC and CV were calculated for consecutively averaged MEPs and silent periods.ResultsNo one condition was more reliable than another. For MEP amplitude, in all conditions except the explosive late phase, ICCs generally increased, and CV decreased, with an increase in the number of averaged contractions, and were >0.50 ICC and <15% CV within 7 contractions. For silent period, ICCs and CVs were unaffected by the number of consecutively averaged contractions and remained >0.50 ICC and <10% CV.ConclusionTest-retest reliability of TMS responses is comparable between phases of explosive contraction and at the plateau of MVC. To enhance MEP reliability, with the increases he number of averaged contractions of except the explosive late phase, we recommend studies average data across > the 3-5 contractions typically reported in the literature for studies using TMS during MVCs.
Substrate Curvature Influences Cytoskeletal Rearrangement and Modulates Macrophage Phenotype
Authors: Sovar Austin , Patrick Matthew , Annamalai Ramkumar T. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractInflammation serves as a critical defense mechanism against pathogens and tissue damage but can lead to chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, when dysregulated. Macrophages play a pivotal role in orchestrating inflammatory responses, transitioning from pro-inflammatory M1 to anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes to resolve inflammation and promote tissue repair. Current approaches to modulate macrophage phenotype predominantly rely on biochemical cues, which may induce systemic side effects. Given the mechanosensitivity of macrophages, this study investigates biophysical cues, specifically substrate curvature, as a localized strategy to regulate macrophage phenotype and minimize systemic repercussions.We hypothesized that substrate curvature influences macrophage immunophenotype by modulating F-actin polymerization. To test this hypothesis, we fabricated spherical microgels with tunable curvatures and characterized their biophysical properties. Our findings indicate that macrophages adhere to microgel surfaces irrespective of curvature, but the curvature significantly alters F-actin dynamics. Furthermore, manipulating cytoskeletal dynamics via selective actin inhibition partially reversed curvature-induced changes in macrophage phenotype. These results underscore the pivotal role of substrate curvature in modulating macrophage behavior and immunophenotype.Overall, our study demonstrates that substrate curvature significantly influences macrophage cytoskeletal dynamics and resulting immunophenotype. This simple approach can be utilized as a localized immunomodulatory treatment for inflammatory diseases.
Structural insight into binding site access and ligand recognition by human ABCB1
Authors: Kurre Devanshu , Dang Phuoc X. , Le Le T.M. , Gadkari Varun V. , Alam Amer 
Published: August 2024

AbstractABCB1 is a broad-spectrum efflux pump central to cellular drug handling and multidrug resistance in humans. However, its mechanisms of poly-specific substrate recognition and transport remain poorly resolved. Here we present cryo-EM structures of lipid embedded human ABCB1 in its apo, substrate-bound, inhibitor-bound, and nucleotide-trapped states at 3.4-3.9 Å resolution without using stabilizing antibodies or mutations and each revealing a distinct conformation. The substrate binding site is located within one half of the molecule and, in the apo state, is obstructed by transmembrane helix (TM) 4. Substrate and inhibitor binding are distinguished by major differences in TM arrangement and ligand binding chemistry, with TM4 playing a central role in all conformational transitions. Our data offer fundamental new insights into the role structural asymmetry, secondary structure breaks, and lipid interactions play in ABCB1 function and have far-reaching implications for ABCB1 inhibitor design and predicting its substrate binding profiles.
Boundary-induced phase in epitaxial iron layers
Authors: Ravensburg Anna L. , Werwiński Mirosław , Rychły-Gruszecka Justyna , Snarski-Adamski Justyn , Elsukova Anna , Persson Per O. Å. , Rusz Ján , Brucas Rimantas , Hjörvarsson Björgvin , Svedlindh Peter , Pálsson Gunnar K. , Kapaklis Vassilios 
Published: August 2024

We report on the discovery of a boundary-induced body-centered tetragonal iron phase in thin films deposited on MgAl2O4 (001) substrates. We present evidence for this phase using detailed x-ray analysis and density functional theory calculations. A lower magnetic moment and a rotation of the easy magnetization direction are observed, as compared with body-centered cubic iron. Our findings expand the range of known crystal and magnetic phases of iron, providing valuable insights for the development of heterostructure devices using ultrathin iron layers.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Building a sustainable career during the initial transition to work: a multiple-stakeholder perspective on proactive behaviors and contextual factors
Authors: Gerritsen Sjoerd , Pak Karen , Darouei Maral , Akkermans Jos , Van der Heijden Beatrice 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThe initial transition into work has become less predictable. Therefore, emerging adults should take charge and be proactively engaged in their careers during the preparation stage of the school-to-work transition (STWT). We explored which behaviors emerging adults display during the STWT to foster their happiness, health, and productivity, how various contextual factors enable or hinder these behaviors, and to what extent these behaviors can be considered proactive.Design/methodology/approachTaking a qualitative approach, we conducted 44 semi-structured interviews with undergraduate students at an Applied Sciences University in the Netherlands six months before graduation. Additionally, we held nine focus groups (n = 55) and four interviews (n = 6) with contextual stakeholders (i.e. parents, faculty/staff, employers, the board of the university, higher education policymakers, and the Ministry of Education).FindingsThe students mentioned three main behaviors to foster their health, happiness, and productivity, namely, eating healthy food, maintaining social contacts, and reflecting on their motivations. Our analysis shows that, conceptually, none of these behaviors can be considered truly proactive. Moreover, the findings revealed multiple systemic underlying contextual hindrances to portray these behaviors, such as educational system characteristics, which make proactive behaviors less likely.Originality/valueAs the STWT is affected by multiple contexts, adopting a multi-stakeholder perspective is imperative when studying the phenomenon. We adopted the sustainable careers framework as a lens to uncover how emerging adults may build early career sustainability—additionally, we nuance current research on proactivity by concretizing the conceptualization of proactive behaviors.
Post-pandemic motivations for consumers’ e-retailer preference in an emerging market: a qualitative approach
Authors: Roy Robin , Shaikh Ateeque 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to explore consumers’ post-pandemic (COVID-19) motivations for an e-retailer preference in an emerging market like India.

Design/methodology/approach
This study applied qualitative methodology to explore the research question, and 44 in-depth interviews were conducted with online consumers. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using open, axial and selective coding strategies.

Findings
This study identified seven post-pandemic motivations for consumers’ e-retailer preference, and the motivations were classified into: utilitarian (remote location and fast delivery, product choice and availability, comparative price and discounts and customer service), hedonic (aesthetics of the e-retailer store) and both utilitarian and hedonic (mobile-friendliness and user interface and interactivity).

Research limitations/implications
Creating knowledge post-pandemic period is essential. This study communicates empirical evidence to suggest consumers are motivated through both utilitarian and hedonic motivation for an e-retailer preference in an emerging market. Furthermore, the researchers are encouraged to collect data from more developing countries and test the proposed e-retailer preference factors.

Practical implications
The study offers new knowledge to online retail managers to understand how emerging market consumers prefer an e-retailer and strive to attract and retain customers in the market.

Originality/value
Past studies have highlighted the importance of consumer online shopping motivations and channel preferences. However, there is limited literature investigating how consumers prefer an e-retailer over other e-retailers for online shopping. This study addresses the gap in the existing retailing literature and offers fresh insights into how consumers prefer an e-retailer post-pandemic from an emerging market context.
The water vapour resistance dynamic measurement of natural and synthetic fibre
Authors: Benltoufa Sofien , Algamdy Hind , Ghith Adel , Fayala Faten , Hes Lubos 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThe paper aims to investigate the dynamic measurement of the water vapour resistance. The water vapour diffusion kinetics depends on the fibre’s material. So, water vapour resistance measurement times till the equilibrium steady state can vary in the case of natural fibres compared to synthetic fibres. Devices for determining water vapour resistance according to the ISO 11092 standard allow static values to be measured.Design/methodology/approachIn this study to investigate the dynamic of the water vapour resistance, a new parameter named “holding period” was introduced and defined as the time from sample placement on the measuring head until the measuring process begins. The holding period was varied as 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 and 300 s. Wool and cotton knitted fabrics were tested as natural fibres and compared to 100% polyester and 90% polyester/10% elastane as synthetic fibres. Measurements were conducted under both air velocities of 1 and 2 m/s. The experimental test data were statistically analysed based on ANOVA and four-in-one residual plots.FindingsStatistical analysis of experimental tests shows that the holding period affects water vapour resistance in both air velocities of 1 and 2 m/s and on the measured values in the case of hydrophilic fibres.Research limitations/implicationsThe study of the dynamic relative water vapour permeability of natural and synthetic is an important area of interest for future research.Practical implicationsIt is recommended to hold the samples on the top of the head measurement before starting the test.Originality/valueFollowing the ISO 11092 standard, the static values of the water vapour resistance were measured without considering the dynamic behaviour of the water vapour diffusion through the textile fabrics. This paper fulfils an experimental dynamic measurement of the water vapour resistance.
Intergenerational succession and corporate philanthropy: a stakeholder perspective
Authors: Zhang Lijie , Lin Zhibin , Huang Wei , Djafarova Elmira , Ren Li 
Published: August 2024

PurposeBased on stakeholder theory, this study aims to examine the impact of family firm succession on corporate philanthropy while considering the potential role of the clan cultural context, industry context, and the stage of succession.Design/methodology/approachData were based on a sample of 7,502 firm-year observations from listed family firms in China’s A-share markets between 2007 and 2018. Several Tobit models are used for analysing the data. Difference-in-difference regression method and propensity score matching method are used for robustness tests.FindingsFamily firms undergoing succession tend to spend more on corporate philanthropy compared to non-succession counterparts. This effect is more pronounced among polluting industry firms and weaker in regions with strong clan cultures and after the process of succession is complete.Originality/valueThis study sheds new light on the relationship between inter-generational succession and corporate philanthropy. By considering the moderating effect of the clan cultural context, industry context, and the stage of succession, this study further advances the understanding of the role of corporate philanthropy in managing family firm succession.
Unlocking the power of employee word-of-mouth to recruit young talent within university settings
Authors: Panagiotidou Sofia Α. , Mihail Dimitrios 
Published: August 2024

PurposeOur study, based on signaling and social identity theories, explores how companies develop employer brand strategies through university partnerships and employee-centered practices. We also identify key factors that encourage employees to share positive word-of-mouth, enhancing the company’s appeal to potential and current talents.Design/methodology/approachUsing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, we analyzed a sample of 687 employees from various industries in Greece.FindingsIn our research, we highlight the role of employees' affective commitment in generating positive word-of-mouth recommendations for their company, as a desirable employment destination through interactions within their alma mater universities. This commitment, tied to their understanding of the company’s employer brand and their perceptions of its pre-recruitment practices, fosters a positive employer image among potential candidates. Our study confirms that leveraging employees as brand ambassadors enhances a company’s appeal to younger generations.Practical implicationsCompanies should prioritize cultivating employees' affective commitment and facilitate interactions between employees and young candidates at their alma mater universities. It is crucial to ensure that employees understand the company’s employer brand both during their experience as candidates and as employees. By understanding the factors influencing employees' willingness to act as brand ambassadors, organizations can strengthen their employer image and attract younger candidates.Originality/valueOur findings enhance the understanding of employee word-of-mouth dynamics, offering insights to improve pre-recruitment HR practices aimed at attracting students and recent graduates. By emphasizing employees' perceptions and actions regarding their social interactions at alma mater universities and their employer brand awareness, we can add value to employee-centric pre-recruitment strategies. Designed and implemented by employers, these strategies aim to attract emerging talent through universities.
Exploring panic buying as a situational response – the role of fear, media exposure and context-specific paranoia
Authors: Nakić Matej , Koričan Lajtman Mirna , Oblaković Goran 
Published: August 2024

PurposeDrawing on prospect theory, terror management theory, and social influence theories, this study explores the phenomenon of panic buying amid the COVID-19 pandemic, namely its situational antecedents such as fear of COVID-19, increased media exposure to COVID-19-related news, and context-specific paranoia. It offers insight into the situational nature of panic buying, contrary to the purely dispositional/trait conceptualization of irrational spending, usually depicted through the phenomenon of compulsive buying.Design/methodology/approachThis is a cross-sectional study. An online questionnaire was used for data collection from 621 Croatian citizens. The questionnaire features a series of validated instruments designed to measure compulsive buying, fear of COVID-19, and context-specific paranoia. The media exposure scale (MES) was also specifically developed and empirically tested for the purpose of this research.FindingsThe results suggest that individuals who exhibited greater fear of COVID-19 while also experiencing increased exposure to COVID-19-related news were more likely to engage in panic buying. This connection has remained significant even after controlling for compulsive buying tendencies, suggesting that panic buying witnessed during the coronavirus pandemic was a situational phenomenon, not strictly dispositional. This establishes the fear of COVID-19 and increased exposure to pandemic-related news content as situational antecedents to panic buying. After controlling for compulsive buying, this paper does not demonstrate a significant connection between context-specific paranoia and panic buying. Furthermore, context-specific paranoia does not mediate the relationship between media exposure to pandemic-related content and panic buying, whereas the fear of COVID-19 significantly mediates the same relationship.Practical implicationsThis study recognizes people's panic behavior amid the COVID-19 pandemic as a byproduct of a situational, reactive process – not a psychopathological one. Furthermore, it recognizes media sensationalism and the audience's impaired capacity for rational spending as major risk factors preceding the event of panic buying.Originality/valueThis study proposes a novel conceptual framework of irrational spending amid crises such as COVID-19 pandemic, introducing the differentiation between the situational nature of the phenomenon (panic buying), thereby separating it from its previous dispositional operationalizations (hoarding, compulsive buying).
Adapting to disruption: the impact of agility, absorptive capacity and ambidexterity on supply chain resilience
Authors: Singh Rohit Kumar , Modgil Sachin 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThis study aims to explore the key drivers contributing to supply chain resilience, with specific attention on agility, absorptive capacity and ambidexterity. It focuses on the roles of supply chain absorptive capacity (SCAC), supply chain ambidexterity (SCAB), supply chain agility (SCAG) and supply chain flexibility (SCF) in enhancing supply chain resilience (SCR).Design/methodology/approachA survey based on a questionnaire with established scales for SCAC, SCAB, SCAG, SCF and SCR was conducted among professionals in various industries within India, receiving 356 responses. Structural equation modeling is used to test the hypothesis.FindingsThe study reveals significant relationships between SCAC, SCAB, SCAG and SCR. SCAC and SCAB are positively correlated with SCAG, which in turn positively influences SCR. Further, SCF directly influences SCR and moderates the relationships between SCAC/SCAB and SCAG, enhancing the agility and resilience of the supply chain. These findings underline the importance of integrating knowledge management, adaptability and flexibility in supply chain strategies to cope with the dynamic business environment.Originality/valueThe uniqueness of this study lies in its integrated investigation of absorptive capacity, ambidexterity, agility and supply chain flexibility, with a specific focus on the moderating role of flexibility. This research is unique in demonstrating how these dynamic capabilities transform disruptions into innovative and growth opportunities for supply chain management.