bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CryoEM structure of the di-domain core ofMycobacterium tuberculosispolyketide synthase 13, essential for mycobacterial mycolic acid synthesis
Authors: Johnston Hannah E , Batt Sarah M , Brown Alistair K , Savva Christos G , Besra Gurdyal S , Fütterer Klaus 
Published: April 2024

AbstractMycobacteria are known for their complex cell wall, which comprises layers of peptidoglycan, polysaccharides and unusual fatty acids known as mycolic acids that form their unique outer membrane. Polyketide synthase 13 (Pks13) ofMycobacterium tuberculosis,the bacterial organism causing tuberculosis (TB), catalyses the last step of mycolic acid synthesis prior to export to and assembly in the cell wall. Due to its essentiality, Pks13 is a target for several novel anti-tubercular inhibitors, but its 3D structure and catalytic reaction mechanism remain to be fully elucidated. Here, we report the molecular structure of the catalytic core domains ofM. tuberculosisPks13 (Mt-Pks13), determined by transmission cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) to a resolution of 3.4 Å. We observe a homodimeric assembly comprising the ketoacyl synthase (KS) domain at the centre, mediating dimerization, and the acyltransferase (AT) domains protruding in opposite directions from the central KS domain dimer. In addition to the KS-AT di-domains, the cryoEM map includes features not covered by the di-domain structural model that we predict to contain a dimeric domain with similarity to dehydratases, yet likely lacking catalytic function. Analytical ultracentrifugation data indicate a pH-dependent equilibrium between monomeric and dimeric assembly states, while comparison with the previously determined structures ofM. smegmatisPks13 indicates architectural flexibility. Combining the experimentally determined structure with modelling in AlphaFold2 suggests a structural scaffold with a relatively stable dimeric core, that combines with considerable conformational flexibility to facilitate the successive steps of the Claisen-type condensation reaction catalysed by Pks13.
Heterogeneity of the human immune response to malaria infection and vaccination driven by latent cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Mukhiya Reena , Fleischmann Wim A. , Loughland Jessica R. , Chan Jo-Anne , de Labastida Rivera Fabian , Andrew Dean , Beeson James G. , McCarthy James S , Barber Bridget E , Lopez J. Alejandro , Engwerda Christian , Thomson-Luque Richard , Boyle Michelle J 
Published: April 2024

AbstractHuman immune responses to infection and vaccination are heterogenous, driven by multiple factors including genetics, environmental exposures and personal infection histories. For malaria caused byPlasmodium falciparumparasites, host factors that impact on humoral immunity are poorly understood. We investigated the role of latent cytomegalovirus (CMV) on the host immune response to malaria using blood stageP. falciparumControlled Human Malaria Infection (CHMI) and in a MSP1 vaccine Phase 1a clinical trial. CMV seropositivity was associated with reduced induction of parasite specific antibodies following malaria infection and vaccination. During infection, reduced antibody induction was associated with modifications to the T -follicular helper (Tfh) cell compartment. CMV seropositivity was associated with a skew towards Tfh1 cell subsets before and after malaria infection, and reduced activation of Tfh2 cells. Protective Tfh2 cell activation was only associated with antibody development in CMV seronegative individuals, and a higher proportion of Tfh1 cells was associated with lower antibody development in CMV seropositive individuals. During MSP1 vaccination, reduced antibody induction in CMV seropositive individuals was associated with CD4 T cell expression of terminal differentiation marker CD57. These findings are particularly relevant for malaria endemic regions where CMV infection is acquired early in life and may modify immunity to malaria gained during infection or vaccination.
DNA methylation in pituitary adenomas: scoping review protocol
Authors: Møller Morten Winkler , Nortvig Mathias Just , Andersen Mikkel Schou , Poulsen Frantz Rom 
Published: April 2024

AbstractObjectiveThe general objective of this study is to map the current knowledge in DNA methylation in Pituitary Adenomas, and in particular focus on genetic and epigenetic findings and the translation into a clinical setting.IntroductionPituitary tumorigenesis is currently under major investigation. The current research has turned to epigenomic analysis, investigating whether several epigenetic components like DNA methylation and histone modification can be used as markers for tumorigenesis. Several studies report genes involved in relation to hypo/hypermethylated sites. Others describe differential methylated probes/regions (DMR or DMP) and show subclassification traits. Furthermore, most recent studies aim to cluster samples based on full methylome data (unsupervised cluster analysis), while others chose to assess the most different probes (example 2000 probes) and perform the same data-analysis.Inclusion criteriaIn this review, we will include all primary studies on pituitary adenomas analyzed by DNA methylation. No review studies will be included. All papers describing DNA methylation in pituitary adenomas in humans will be included. In addition, all languages will be included. However, both title and abstract needs to be written in English.MethodsPapers will be identified via systematic search using the bibliographic databases: Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and Scopus. Two reviewers will screen all papers based on title and abstract. All relevant papers will be included for further assessment by the same two reviewers. Full texts from each selected paper will be read, and if relevant regarding the eligibility criteria, papers will be included in the review. Disputes between these reviewers, the paper/papers will be discussed in the entire research-group.5.FundingNo external funding for this review, funded by in-house resources.
Venom Isosolenopsin A Delivers Rapid Knockdown of Fire Ant Competitors
Authors: Fox Eduardo G P , Wu Xiaoqing , Wang Lei , Chen Li , Lu Yong-Yue , Xu Yijuan 
Published: April 2024

AbstractFire ant venoms are composed of insecticidal alkaloids named ‘solenopsins’. Whilst species-specific differences are reported, little attention was given to caste-specific venom adaptations. The venom of fire ants queens has remained poorly studied. Founding queens must succeed in isolation in the field, where venom is bound to play a role against competitor species. The venoms of fire ant queens are strikingly similar across different species, in being mainly composed of the alkaloid isosolenopsin A, regardless of the chemical diversity of the worker caste. From assuming this pattern as the evolutionary result of stabilising trait selection, we hypothesise a shared mechanism explaining the conserved venom composition among the fire ant queens of different species. Here we report that fire ant queen venom and its major compounds are much quicker to neutralise competitor ants than the more diverse venoms of workers. Three representative competitor ant species sympatric with invasive fire ants were selected, exposed on the head to venoms from invasive fire ant workers and queens of two main invasive species,Solenopsis invictaandS. geminata. The venom diversity in the worker caste of these species represent extremes in the chemical diversity of fire ants. Queen venoms delivers quicker knockdown of rival foragers than worker venoms. The effects are traced back to synthetic solenopsins demonstrating solenopsin A analogues are particularly efficient as contact neurotoxins. The observed effects are comparable to nicotine. Overall the venoms ofS. invictaseem more lethal than ofS. geminata, regardless of knockdown speed. We believe these are fundamental aspects in the chemical ecology of the invasive ants which have been long overlooked, and emphasise on the need for further studies into the venom biology of founding queens.
An optimal decision for fresh products' cold chain considering freshness and carbon emission reduction
Authors: Liu Zheng , Huang Na , Han Chunjia , Yang Mu , Zhao Yuanjun , Sun Wenzhuo , Arya Varsha , Gupta Brij B. , Shi Lihua 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThe aim of this study was to analyze the effects of carbon reduction efforts and preservation efforts on system benefits in the cold chain industry of fresh products.Design/methodology/approachThis study develops an optimal decision game model for the fresh products in the cold chain, incorporating the retailer's preservation effort and the supplier's carbon emission reduction effort. It quantifies the relationship between carbon emission reduction effort, preservation effort and system profit. The model considers parameters like carbon trading price, consumer low-carbon preference and consumer freshness preference, reflecting real-world conditions and market trends. Numerical simulations are conducted by varying these parameters to observe their impact on system profit.FindingsUnder the carbon cap-and-trade policy, the profit of the fresh cold chain system is higher than that of the fresh cold chain system without carbon constraints, and the profit of the supplier under decentralized decision-making is increased by nine times in the simulation results. The increase in carbon trading prices can effectively improve the freshness level of fresh products cold chain, carbon emission reduction level and system profit.Originality/valueThis study comprehensively considers the factors of freshness and carbon emission reduction, provides the optimal low-carbon production decision-making reference for the fresh food cold chain and promotes the sustainable development of the fresh food cold chain.
Grain price support policy and the distortion of market price
Authors: Tan Yanwen , Yue Ruixue , Chen Liru , Li Congxi , Chen Kevin Z. 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThis paper aims to examine whether China's grain price support policy has distorted the grain market price.Design/methodology/approachThe time-varying differences-in-differences (DID) model is used to study the impact of support policies on grain prices, and it is combined with the event study method to explore the dynamic effects of price support policy. Panel data model is used to study the effect of the price support policy on price formation for national grain market prices. In addition, we apply the smooth transformation (STR) model to verify whether there is a distortion in the transmission of grain prices among different markets in China and from the international market to China’s market.FindingsChina’s grain price support policy plays a significant role in rising grain market prices, weakens the decisive role of the market mechanism in the formation of grain prices, hinders the spatial transmission of market price signals and decreases the effect of price transmission from the world market to China’s market.Research limitations/implicationsIn order to ensure both the stability of grain production as well as the market stability, and also to ensure that intervention policies do not distort the food market, the minimum purchase price of grain and market regulation policies should be adjusted as follows: (1) price support policy should be shifted to an income support policy and (2) reasonably determine the scale of reserves and implement a grain minimum purchase price policy in limited areas.Originality/valueOur findings are relevant for understanding the effect of China's grain price support policies on the implementation regions and the price transmission effect, which provide reference experience for developing countries to implement food price policies.
A novel grey forecasting model with generalised fractal derivative and its optimisation
Authors: Jia Lina , Pang MingYong 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose a new grey prediction model, GOFHGM (1,1), which combines generalised fractal derivative and particle swarm optimisation algorithms. The aim is to address the limitations of traditional grey prediction models in order selection and improve prediction accuracy.Design/methodology/approachThe paper introduces the concept of generalised fractal derivative and applies it to the order optimisation of grey prediction models. The particle swarm optimisation algorithm is also adopted to find the optimal combination of orders. Three cases are empirically studied to compare the performance of GOFHGM(1,1) with traditional grey prediction models.FindingsThe study finds that the GOFHGM(1,1) model outperforms traditional grey prediction models in terms of prediction accuracy. Evaluation indexes such as mean squared error (MSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) are used to evaluate the model.Research limitations/implicationsThe research study may have limitations in terms of the scope and generalisability of the findings. Further research is needed to explore the applicability of GOFHGM(1,1) in different fields and to improve the model’s performance.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the field by introducing a new grey prediction model that combines generalised fractal derivative and particle swarm optimisation algorithms. This integration enhances the accuracy and reliability of grey predictions and strengthens their applicability in various predictive applications.
The effects of mother's schooling on next generation’s schooling: evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Md. Nasir , Sarntisart Saran 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThis paper aims to find the effects of mothers’ schooling on child schooling.Design/methodology/approachThis paper uses Bangladesh's Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES), which is a nationally representative survey. It employs the instrumental variable technique to estimate the intergenerational model.FindingsInterestingly, the results show that the intergenerational transmission of schooling from mothers is slightly higher than that of fathers in Bangladesh.Research limitations/implicationsEstimating the intergenerational model is challenging due to the endogeneity issue. The methodology used in this paper may help to find similar evidence from other countries.Practical implicationsThe findings of the study may help to design and evaluate the educational policies in Bangladesh or a country like Bangladesh. For instance, the results of this paper suggest that the female stipend program (FSP) in Bangladesh is effective for the next generation’s schooling.Originality/valueThis paper is among the first to analyze the effect of mother’s schooling on the child’s schooling, controlling the father’s education and other household characteristics. In addition, it controls for endogeneity bias due to genetic transmission.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-06-2023-0491
TikTok short video marketing and Gen Z’s purchase intention: evidence from the cosmetics industry in Singapore
Authors: Rizomyliotis Ioannis , Lin Chih Lin , Konstantoulaki Kleopatra , Phan Trang 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of TikTok, a popular short-form video marketing platform, on purchase intention for cosmetics among Generation Z consumers in Singapore.

Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative survey was conducted using a convenience sampling method, with a sample of 136 responses. This study examined the influence of various characteristics of TikTok influencers, such as trustworthiness, expertise, attractiveness and entertainment content, on purchase intention.

Findings
This study found that trustworthiness and expertise of influencers, as well as entertainment content, had a significant positive impact on purchase intention. In addition, this study also found that influencer attractiveness and brand anthropomorphism were also significant factors influencing purchase intention. Thise study highlights the importance of the entertainment value, which is in line with the nature of TikTok as a medium.

Originality/value
This study contributes to the limited literature on the effectiveness of TikTok on purchase intention in Singapore, specifically in the cosmetics industry.
The influence of corporate entrepreneurship strategy on SMEs’ internationalization: proposing and testing a model
Authors: Baena-Luna Pedro , Martínez-Román Juan A. , Romero-García José E. , Liñán Francisco 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to propose and test a corporate entrepreneurship strategy (CES) model in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with international activity located in Andalusia (Spain) – a peripheral region with high levels of inequality in the European Union (EU).

Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative analysis has been carried out with data from 101 SMEs to contrast and analyze the proposed CES model. The sample data were obtained through questionnaire-guided interviews with chief executive officers. Data processing has been done using partial least squares-path modeling, a variance-based technique for structural equation modeling.

Findings
The results of this study show the positive effect of environmental conditions on the development of CES actions in Andalusian SMEs (Spain) and the positive influence of CES on the results of SMEs’ international activity. In turn, environmental conditions do not directly affect the international activity.

Originality/value
Although previous works address the relationship between corporate entrepreneurship (CE) and international enterprise activity, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work is original in testing a CES model (including CE and the entrepreneurial strategic vision) in SMEs in a region that has one of the lowest levels of development in the EU. The results have important implications for SMEs and policymakers and could be extrapolated to other emerging economies.
Evaluating the millennial mothers’ relationship building process with baby care brands across two emerging economies
Authors: Sahoo Debajani , Mishra Aditya Shankar , Vannem Reddy Hima Bindhu 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This study aims to explore the motivators of mothers’ experience on their engagement behavior in the case of baby care toiletries. Additionally, the role of Brand trust and commitment have also been evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach
The conceptual model was empirically tested based on the data collected through a survey using 320 samples from India and 431 samples from Sri Lanka. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings
Sensory and behavioral dimensions of brand experience can be considered as key drivers of brand trust and brand commitment among millennial mothers in the context of baby care toiletries. It was observed that brand trust had a significant positive impact on brand commitment. There was a significant relationship between brand trust, brand commitment and customer engagement. It was also inferred that brand loyalty is the consequence of customer engagement.

Practical implications
Marketers should gear up initiatives targeting new mothers through healthy aspects and genuine packaging to strengthen the mother’s trust through periodic uses of the product.

Originality/value
The present study is one of the unique empirical investigations that examine the antecedents of consumer engagement in the less researched context of high inherent risk products like baby toiletries.
Adoption patterns of profit-sharing based deposits: empirical evidence from a Muslim majority country
Authors: Rhoudri Sana , Benazzou Lotfi 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to examine the antecedents of adoption intention of profit-sharing investment deposits (PSID) among Moroccan customers.

Design/methodology/approach
Applying an extended version of diffusion of innovation (DOI) theory and using a non-probability sampling technique with convenience approach, a quantitative survey was developed and administered to 171 Islamic banking users. Structural equation modeling was then used to evaluate the significance of relationships between the various variables under study using SPSS 21.0 and AMOS 26.0 statistical packages.

Findings
Empirical findings of the structural analysis indicated a significant direct relationship between adoption intention and six out of seven variables: perceived relative advantage, perceived compatibility, perceived complexity, perceived risk, religiosity and social influence, all of which had a significant effect on Moroccan customers’ intention to invest their funds in profit-sharing based deposit instruments, whereas customer awareness exerted an insignificant positive effect.

Research limitations/implications
The absence of a longitudinal study tracking the actual adoption behavior is the main limitation of this study. Furthermore, data were collected solely from Islamic banking users. Finally, despite being insightful, the empirical findings should be generalized with caution since the sample was purposely selected by the banks’ management.

Practical implications
This study implied that participatory banks should pay substantial attention to risk perceptions, as PSID adoption intention is typically inhibited by high perceived risks associated with these products. Moreover, this study provides great indications to Moroccan regulators and policymakers on a number of issues related to this emerging business.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper represents the first attempt to confirm the effectiveness of the Rogers’ DOI in examining the intention to adopt a financial innovation in the Moroccan context. It is also the first of its kind to address customers’ apprehensions regarding profit-sharing investment products.
Corporate social responsibility: the key to improving brand equity and reputation for local sports associations in Islamic countries
Authors: Montazeri Amir 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Attracting resources (financial and non-financial), supporters and the community’s attention to sports and physical activity has become essential for local sports associations (LSAs). Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives are innovative and less imitable tools for strengthening relationships with customers (Lim et al., 2018), and there needs to be relevant research on CSR and the variables discussed in this study at the level of small sports organizations. Moreover, past research has focused on professional sports organizations in developed and non-Islamic countries. So, the following research questions are: What is the influence of CSR initiatives on the organizational reputation, brand equity and customer satisfaction of LSAs operating in the context of recreational sports, particularly in Islamic developing countries, and how does this relationship evolve within the framework of small sports organizations?

Design/methodology/approach
Participants (n = 290) consisted of all customers who used the services of LSAs in the Islamic Republic of Iran). This research seeks to measure the relationship between variables within a causal model based on structural equation modeling.

Findings
This study critically examines the connection between CSR, customer satisfaction, organizational reputation and brand equity in LSAs. This study presents a model that explores how CSR influences customer satisfaction, reputation and brand equity in LSAs in developing countries.

Research limitations/implications
Consequently, customers are likely to feel more satisfied with LSAs that demonstrate a commitment to CSR, and this leads to evaluations of the organization’s reputation and brand equity, ultimately resulting in outcomes for them.

Originality/value
This research presents a comprehensive theoretical model that examines the relationship between CSR, customer satisfaction, reputation and brand equity of LSAs in developing Islamic countries. LSAs must understand and recognize customer interests in social issues and their response to various CSR programs.