bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The SAVED domain of the type III CRISPR protease CalpL is a ring nuclease
Authors: Binder Sophie C. , Schneberger Niels , Engeser Marianne , Geyer Matthias , Rouillon Christophe , Hagelueken Gregor 
Published: May 2024

AbstractProkaryotic CRISPR-Cas immune systems detect and cleave foreign nucleic acids. In type III CRISPR-Cas systems, the Cas10 subunit of the activated recognition complex synthesizes cyclic oligoadenylates (cOAs), second messengers that activate downstream ancillary effector proteins. Once the viral attack has been weathered, elimination of extant cOA is essential to limit the antiviral response and to allow cellular recovery. Various families of ring nucleases have been identified, specializing in the degradation of cOAs either as standalone enzymes or as domains of effector proteins. Here we describe the ring nuclease activity inherent in the SAVED domain of the cA4-activated CRISPR Lon protease CalpL. We characterize the kinetics of cA4cleavage and identify key catalytic residues. We demonstrate that cA4-incuced oligomerization of CalpL is essential not only for activation of the protease, but is also required for nuclease activity. Further, the nuclease activity of CalpL poses a limitation to the protease reaction, indicating a mechanism for regulation of the CalpL/T/S signaling cascade. This work is the first demonstration of a catalytic SAVED domain and gives new insights into the dynamics of transcriptional adaption in CRISPR defense systems which are not aimed at abortive infection but rather at a reversible adaption to phage attack.
Cortex Folding by Combined Progenitor Expansion and Adhesion-Controlled Neuronal Migration
Authors: Chun Seung Hee , Diaz Almeida D. Santiago , Ivilinov Todorov Mihail , Straub Tobias , Ruff Tobias , Shao Wei , Yang Jianjun , Seyit-Bremer Gönül , Shen Yi-Ru , Ertürk Ali , del Toro Daniel , Shi Songhai , Klein Rüdiger 
Published: May 2024

SUMMARYFolding of the mammalian cerebral cortex into sulcal fissures and gyral peaks is the result of complex processes that are incompletely understood. Previously we showed that genetic deletion of Flrt1/3 adhesion molecules causes folding of the smooth mouse cortex into sulci resulting from increased lateral dispersion and faster neuron migration, without progenitor expansion. Here, we find that combining theFlrt1/3double knockout with an additional genetic deletion that causes progenitor expansion, greatly enhances cortex folding. Expansion of intermediate progenitors by deletion of Cep83 results in enhanced formation of sulci. Expansion of apical progenitors by deletion of Fgf10 results in enhanced formation of gyri. Single cell transcriptomics and simulations suggest that changes in adhesive properties of cortical neurons, their proportions and densities in the cortical plate, combined with lateral dispersion during their radial migration are important folding parameters. These results identify key developmental mechanisms that cooperate to promote cortical gyrification.HIGHLIGHTSCortex folding is enhanced by combining progenitor expansion and divergent migration.Concomitant expansion of intermediate progenitors results in the formation of sulciConcomitant expansion of apical progenitors results in the formation of gyriProgenitors differentially affect cortical neurons with distinct adhesive properties
Succession of bacteria and archaea within the soil micro-food web
Authors: Tamang Mandip , Sikorski Johannes , van Bommel Miriam , Piecha Marc , Urich Tim , Ruess Liliane , Huber Katharina , Neumann-Schaal Meina , Pester Michael 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBacterivorous nematodes represent numerically abundant bacterial grazers in the soil micro-food web. Their trophic regulation shapes the soil microbiome, but the underlying population dynamics of bacteria and archaea are poorly understood. Here, we followed bulk soil respiration and time-resolved population dynamics (32 days) of bacterial and archaeal species in response to top-down control by a common bacterivorous soil nematode,Acrobeloides buetschlii, bottom-up control by resource amendment via maize litter as well as the combination of both. Addition of maize litter significantly increased soil respiration rates, while bacterivorous nematodes shifted the maximum rate of soil respiration from day 12 to day 6. Underlying bacterial and archaeal abundance changes could be separated into five major response types, dominating in different top-down and bottom-up control scenarios. Individual microbial species switched between response types depending on the different scenarios. In-depth analysis of these differential abundance patterns revealed a broad feeding behavior forA. buetschliion dominating populations of gram-negative bacteria (Acidobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Gemmatimonatoda, Pseudomonadota) and ammonia-oxidizing archaea (Nitrososphaerota), while discriminating against dominant populations of gram-positive bacteria (Actinobacteriota, Bacillota). Combined bottom-up control by maize litter and top-down control by nematode grazing caused a succession of soil microbiota, which was driven by population changes first in theBacteroidota, then in thePseudomonadota, and last in theAcidobacteriotaandNitrososphaerota. This mechanistic understanding of nematode grazing on soil microbiota population dynamics is essential to inform predictive models of the soil food web.
Data-driven analysis identifies female-specific social modulation deficit after chronic social defeat stress
Authors: Schuler Heike , Eid Rand S. , Wu Serena , Tse Yiu-Chung , Cvetkovska Vedrana , Lopez Joëlle , Quinn Rosalie , Zhou Delong , Meccia Juliet , Dion-Albert Laurence , Menard Caroline , Bennett Shannon N. , Peña Catherine J. , Bagot Rosemary C. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundChronic social defeat stress is a widely used depression model in male mice. Several proposed adaptations extend this model to females with variable, often marginal effects. We examine the if widely used male-defined metrics of stress are suboptimal in females and reveal sex-specific adaptations.MethodsUsing a data-driven method we comprehensively classified social interaction behavior in 761 male and female mice after chronic social witness/defeat stress, examining social modulation of behavioral frequencies and associations with conventional metrics (i.e., social interaction (SI) ratio).ResultsSocial stress induces distinct behavioral adaptation patterns in males and females. SI ratio leads to underpowered analyses in females with limited utility to differentiate susceptibility/resilience. Data-driven analyses reveal failure of social adaptation in stressed female mice that is captured in attenuated velocity change from no target to target tests (ΔVelocity) and validate this in three female social stress models. Combining SI ratio and ΔVelocity optimally differentiates susceptibility/ resilience in females and this metric reveals resilient-specific adaptation in a resilience-associated neural circuit in female mice.ConclusionsWe demonstrate that psychological or physical social defeat stress induces similar deficits in females that is qualitatively distinct from male deficits and inadequately sampled by male-defined metrics. We identify modulation of locomotion as a robust and easily implementable metric for rigorous research in female mice. Overall, our findings highlight the need to critically evaluate sex differences in behavior and implement sex-based considerations in preclinical model design.
A longitudinal examination of anti-corruption disclosure in the banking sector of a least-developed economy: does board composition make a difference?
Authors: Mazumder Mohammed Mehadi Masud 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis study focuses on anti-corruption disclosure (ACD) as a critical indicator of a bank’s commitment to combat corruption. It seeks to measure the level of ACD in banking companies. Emphasizing the pivotal role of board directors in ensuring corporate accountability and transparency, the study further explores the connection between board composition and ACD.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopts automated content analysis (using keyword search) to measure the level of ACD in the annual reports of listed banks in Bangladesh. Drawing upon agency theory and resource-dependence theory, the study proposes that the collective monitoring and resources facilitated by a well-structured board (size, gender diversity and independence) significantly influence a bank’s commitment to combat corruption. The paper employs linear regression to examine the hypotheses. The reliability of the findings is further validated through the application of the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) and Quantile Regression.FindingsThe results indicate a steady rise in ACD over the sample period (2014–2022). The analysis establishes that larger board sizes and a greater presence of female directors are positively associated with ACD. Notably, the study identifies a critical mass of at least three female directors for a significant positive relationship between gender diversity on the board and ACD. However, no significant relationship is observed between board independence and ACD.Practical implicationsThe study sheds light on the current state of ACD within the banking companies of a least-developed country. The findings carry significant implications for regulators to gauge banks' dedication to anti-corruption efforts and make informed decisions on issuing guidance for enhanced ACD. These findings can also assist regulators in assessing the implications of board composition and formulating guidelines within the corporate governance code.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature on ACD in the context of a least-developed economy. Notably, the study fills a research gap by exploring ACD in the banking industry. A key aspect of this study is its exploration of the determinants of ACD, explicitly emphasizing how board composition is likely to influence ACD.
Going resilient with digital transformation, human capabilities and innovation readiness: empirical evidence from the energy sector
Authors: Bahyan Haya , Ajmal Mian M. , Saber Hussein 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe present study investigated organizational resilience (OR) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE’s) energy sector to identify impactful technological and human variables and assess the hermeneutic effect of digital transformation on value co-creation and OR. The study also investigates the mediating role of value co-creation on a few covariates of OR.Design/methodology/approachThe questionnaire was sent out to 311 professionals in the energy sector, all affiliated with governmental organizations, using quota sampling. A total of 206 collated responses corresponding to the tested variables regarding the influences of digital transformation, employee resilience, innovation readiness, cyber resilience and value co-creation on OR were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Accordingly, a model of eight constructs and their 27 indicators was tested.FindingsInstituting flexibility and adaptability to technological advancements, as well as cyber resilience, was found to enhance digital transformation. The sense of self-efficacy of the professionals who participated in the study led them to develop innovation readiness and thus embrace creativity and encourage co-creation while maintaining collaborative efforts with customers and stakeholders. This mediated several technological and human variables, such as the importance of managers' understanding of customer needs, preferences and pain points, which involves actively seeking and valuing customer feedback to inform decision-making.Practical implicationsWhen iterative prototyping, continuous learning, and OR are integrated into an organization’s culture, they create a robust foundation for a customer-centric mindset. This mindset becomes ingrained in how employees approach their work and make purposeful decisions.Originality/valueThe present study drew empirical insights into OR in the UAE’s energy sector from a resource-based theory perspective. By identifying potential vulnerabilities and implementing appropriate mitigation measures, organizations can reduce the likelihood and impact of disruptions, which can ultimately help them maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Effects of female CEO and female CFO on internationalization and firm performance
Authors: Amin Ali , Ali Rizwan , Ur Rehman Ramiz 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The study aims to examine the influence of female chief executive officer (CEO) and female chief financial officer (CFO) on the linkage between internationalization and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach
This study used 2926 firm-year observations of nonfinancial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange over the period 2012–2021. This study used ordinary least squares regression method to test the hypotheses, and additionally, generalized method of moments estimation and fixed effect analysis were used to check for the robustness of the results.

Findings
Using the framework of upper echelons theory and resource dependence theory, this study reports that internationalization has a positive impact on firm performance. Moreover, the results show that the presence of female CEO and female CFO strengthens the positive relationship between internationalization and firm performance. The results add to the gender diversity literature by highlighting the positive role of female CEOs and female CFOs on the internationalization and performance of firms in a male-dominated society.

Originality/value
This study adds to the limited literature on the internationalization of businesses in an emerging market and provides empirical support to upper echelons theory and resource dependence theory by highlighting the benefits brought to the firm through female CEOs and female CFOs.
Take the bull by the horns! The role of spiritual leadership and dark triad toward workplace incivility
Authors: Malik Maria , Islam Talat , Ashraf Yasir 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Workplace incivility has become a global issue; therefore, this study aims to investigate how spiritual leadership can help employees to overcome uncivil behaviors in the workplace. Specifically, the authors explored the mediating mechanism between spiritual leadership and workplace incivility through workplace spirituality. The authors further examined how negative personalities (i.e. Machiavellianism, psychopathy and narcissism) moderate workplace spirituality and workplace incivility.

Design/methodology/approach
This study collected data from 369 employees working in the banking sector on a convenience basis. The authors applied structural equation modeling for hypotheses testing.

Findings
The authors noted that spiritual leaders help employees to reduce uncivil workplace behaviors and employees’ perception of workplace spirituality intervenes the same. The authors further identified that the negative association between workplace spirituality and workplace incivility is moderated by the dark triad (Machiavellianism, psychopathy and narcissism) such that individuals high in Machiavellianism, psychopathy and narcissism weaken this negative association.

Research limitations/implications
The cross-sectional design may restrict causality. However, our findings not only contribute to social cognitive theory but also suggest management includes civility intervention as an essential part of organizations’ training and development.

Originality/value
This study not only highlighted the role of spiritual leadership and workplace spirituality toward workplace incivility but also shed light on how negative personalities can ignore workplace spirituality to exhibit uncivil behavior.
The role of digital literacy, epistemological belief and reading motivation and engagement in teaching 21st century skills
Authors: Ata Rıdvan , Alpaslan Muhammet Mustafa 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe aim of this study was to shed some light on the extent to which digital literacy, epistemological belief and reading motivation and engagement predict pre-service teachers’ capabilities in teaching 21st century skills.Design/methodology/approach21st Century Skills Teaching Scale, Internet based Epistemological Beliefs Scale, Internet based Reading Motivation and Engagement Scale as well as Digital Literacy Scale were used to collect the data. A total of 512 pre-service teachers from four universities in Türkiye participated in the study. Descriptive statistics, correlation and structural equation model fitness tests were performed by using SPSS 24.0 and AMOS 22.0.FindingsFirst, the results of the correlations analysis indicated that there were statistically significant positive correlations among measured variables. Second, the results of the path and SEM model fit tests demonstrated that all the model fit indices of X2/df, TLI, CFI, RMSEA met the acceptable criteria and were shown to be an adequate model structure. Finally, the results demonstrated strong evidence for predicting effects of digital literacy, epistemological belief as well as reading motivation and engagement on teaching 21st century skills.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited by the fact that the evidence relies solely on pre-service teachers' self-reporting. Secondly, although the hypothesised model explained 45.2% variance of pre-service teachers’ competence in the 21st century skills, 54.8% of it remains unexplained.Originality/valueThe results of this study suggest important implications for teaching programs as they underscore the importance of digital literacy on epistemological beliefs, reading motivation and competence in teaching 21st century skills.
Industry-specific stock valuation methods – a literature review
Authors: Olbert Lars 
Published: May 2024

PurposeSurprisingly little is known of the various methods of security analysis used by financial analysts with industry-specific knowledge. Financial analysts’ industry knowledge is a favored and appreciated attribute by fund managers and institutional investors. Understanding analysts’ use of industry-specific valuation models, which are the main value drivers within different industries, will enhance our understanding of important aspects of value creation in these industries. This paper contributes to the broader understanding of how financial analysts in various industries approach valuation, offering insights that can be beneficial to a wide range of stakeholders in the financial market.Design/methodology/approachThis paper systematically reviews existing research to consolidate the current understanding of analysts’ use of valuation models and factors. It aims to demystify what can often be seen as a “black box”, shedding light on the valuation tools employed by financial analysts across diverse industries.FindingsThe use of industry-specific valuation models and factors by analysts is a subject of considerable interest to both academics and investors. The predominant model in several industries is P/E, with some exceptions. Notably, EV/EBITDA is favored in the telecom, energy and materials sectors, while the capital goods industry primarily relies on P/CF. In the REITs sector, P/AFFO is the most commonly employed model. In specific sectors like pharmaceuticals, energy and telecom, DCF is utilized. However, theoretical models like RIM and AEG find limited use among analysts.Originality/valueThis is the first paper systematically reviewing the research on analyst’s use of industry-specific stock valuation methods. It serves as a foundation for future research in this field and is likely to be of interest to academics, analysts, fund managers and investors.
Can toll prices changes affect the housing market? The case of the Severn crossing toll removal
Authors: Protopsalti Danai , Skouralis Alexandros 
Published: May 2024

PurposeSince 1966, the Severn crossing has been connecting England and Wales. In January 2018, its ownership returned to the UK Government, and this marked the start of a toll-free journey across the two countries and made commuting between the regions more affordable. In this paper, we examine the impact of the toll removal on the property market.Design/methodology/approachWe employ property-level data from the Land Registry and a difference-in-differences (DiD) empirical model for the periods 2016–2018 and 2019–2021 to capture the pre- and post-toll removal dynamics. The DiD estimation allows us to examine the causal relationship between policy changes and property prices.FindingsOur findings suggest that property prices in Newport and Monmouthshire (South East Wales) are positively affected by the policy, which results in a statistically significant increase of 5.8% more than those located in the South West England (Bristol and South Gloucestershire) region in the period 2019–2021. The impact can reach up to 13.1% for properties located in a 10 km radius of the bridge. The results indicate that the toll removal enables the ripple effect across the two markets by reducing commuting costs.Originality/valueThis is the first paper that examines the Severn Crossing case study. Its contribution is significant since we provide empirical evidence on how reduced transportation costs increase property prices in the lowest income region and have the opposite effect on the area with higher incomes and economic activity levels.
War! Good news for defense firms? Analysis of the impact of Russia–Ukraine conflict
Authors: Martins António Miguel , Correia Pedro , Gouveia Ricardo 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis paper examines the short-term market impact of the beginning of the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine (February 24, 2022) on the world’s largest defense firms.Design/methodology/approachThe authors examine the world’s 100 largest listed defense firms at and around the beginning of the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine using an event-study methodology.FindingsWe observe a positive and statistically significant stock price reaction at and around the beginning of the military conflict. These results are consistent with the asset-pricing perspective/expected cash flow hypothesis. Consistent with the captured regulator theory, we find superior market returns for the two portfolios with a greater weight of defense sales. Superior market returns are also found for defense firms with higher R&D and capital expenditure intensity. Finally, these reactions are reinforced or mitigated by other firm-specific characteristics such as size, profitability and institutional ownership.Originality/valueThe effect of the war on stock markets has been relatively little examined in the financial theory. This study intends to fill this gap in the literature.