bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A phosphate-binding pocket in cyclin B3 is essential for XErp1/ Emi2 degradation in meiosis I
Authors: Demmig Rebecca , Schäfer Michael , Johannes Elijah , Heim Andreas , Boland Andreas , Mayer Thomas U. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractTo ensure the correct euploid state of embryos, it is essential that vertebrate oocytes await fertilization arrested at metaphase of meiosis II. This MII arrest is mediated by XErp1/Emi2, which inhibits the ubiquitin ligase APC/C (anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome). Cyclin B3 in complex with Cdk1 (cyclin-dependent kinase 1) is essential to prevent an untimely arrest of vertebrate oocytes in meiosis I by targeting XErp1/Emi2 for degradation. Yet, the molecular mechanism of XErp1/Emi2 degradation in MI is not well understood. Here, by combining TRIM-Away in oocytes with egg extract andin vitrostudies, we demonstrate that a hitherto unknown phosphate-binding pocket in cyclin B3 is essential for efficient XErp1/Emi2 degradation in meiosis I. This pocket enables Cdk1/cyclin B3 to bind pre-phosphorylated XErp1/Emi2 facilitating further phosphorylation events, which ultimately target XErp1/Emi2 for degradation in a Plk1 (Polo-like kinase 1) dependent manner. Key elements of this degradative mechanism are conserved in frog and mouse. Our studies identify a novel, evolutionarily conserved determinant of Cdk/cyclin substrate specificity essential to prevent an untimely oocyte arrest at meiosis I with catastrophic consequences upon fertilization.
SLAMseq reveals transfer of RNA from liver to kidney in the mouse
Authors: Hunter Robert W , Sun Jialin , Palmer Trecia , Bailey Matthew A , Dhaun Neeraj , Buck Amy , Dear James W 
Published: May 2024

AbstractExtracellular RNA (exRNA) mediates intercellular communication in plants and lower animals; whether it serves a signalling function in mammals is controversial. Reductionist experiments, in which a single RNA is over-expressed or tagged, have shown RNA transfer between tissues but these may not be relevant to normal physiology. For example, the microRNA miR-122 is released from injured hepatocytes and is taken up by kidney cells. We sought to determine the scale of RNA transfer between liver and kidney through the metabolic labelling of RNA in mice. We used 4-thiouracil to specifically label RNA in hepatocytes then detected labelled (thiolated) RNA in the kidney using SLAMseq: SH-Linked Alkylation for the Metabolic sequencing of RNA. In the kidney, mRNA labelling was detected in 5% of all kidney transcripts under healthy conditions and was increased to 34% of kidney transcripts after acute hepatocellular injury. Labelling was evident in kidney transcripts mapping to known hepatocyte marker genes, to a greater extent than those mapping to markers of other cell types. Labelled small RNA was not detected in kidney tissue. Our results are consistent with the transfer of RNA from liver to kidney; this transfer is augmented in liver injury.
Deep dive into the diversity and properties of rhodopsins in actinomycetes of the familyGeodermatophilaceae
Authors: Tarlachkov Sergey V. , Starodumova Irina P. , Boueva Olga V. , Chernyshov Sergei V. , Evtushenko Lyudmila I. 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACTRhodopsin with the NTQ motif and heliorhodopsins, both discovered for the first time in actinomycetes of the familyGeodermatophilaceaewere characterized, along with characterization of the DTEW, DTEF and NDQ rhodopsins reported in members of this family previously. The identified absorption maxima ranged from 513 to 559 nm, of which the blue-shifted rhodopsin contained the NTQ motif and the red-shifted one were heliorhodopsin. An assessment of the pumping activity of the NTQ rhodopsin and heliorhodopsin showed that the former functioned as inward Cl--, Br--, I--pump with much weaker activity towards NO3-, while no any activity was detected for the later. The DTEW and DTEF rhodopsins had the outward H+-transport activity which was dependent on the presence of Ca2+ions and on the particularE. coliexpression strain. The outward pumping of H+was also detected for NDQ rhodopsin both in NaCl and KCl solutions at pH 5 and 6, but not at pH 7. Weak Na+-efflux activity for this rhodopsin was observed at pH 6 and 7 in NaCl solution only after adding carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP).
Development and Characterization of Recombinant ADP-Ribose Binding Reagents that Allow Simultaneous Detection of Mono and Poly ADP-Ribose
Authors: Chiu Shu-Ping , Camacho Cristel V. , Kraus W. Lee 
Published: May 2024

AbstractADP-ribosylation (ADPRylation) is a post-translational modification (PTM) of proteins mediated by the activity of a variety of ADP-ribosyltransferase (ART) enzymes, such as the Poly (ADP-ribose) Polymerase (PARP) family of proteins. This PTM is diverse in both form and biological functions, which makes it a highly interesting modification, but difficult to study due to limitations in reagents available to detect the diversity of ADP-ribosylation. Recently we developed a set of recombinant antibody-like ADP-ribose binding proteins, using naturally occurring ADPR binding domains (ARBDs) that include macrodomains and WWE domains, that have been functionalized by fusion to the constant “Fc” region of rabbit immunoglobulin. Herein, we present an expansion of this biological toolkit, where we have replaced the rabbit Fc sequence with two other species, the Fc for mouse and goat immunogloblulin. Characterization of the new reagents indicates that they can be detected in a species-dependent manner, recognize specific ADP-ribose moieties, and excitingly, can be used in various antibody-based assays by co-staining. The expansion of this tool will allow for more multiplexed assessments of the complexity of ADPRylation biology in many biological systems.
Molecular basis for the host range function of the poxvirus PKR inhibitor E3
Authors: Haller Sherry L. , Park Chorong , Bruneau Ryan C , Megawati Dewi , Zhang Chi , Vipat Sameera , Peng Chen , Senkevich Tatiana G. , Brennan Greg , Tazi Loubna , Rothenburg Stefan 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe antiviral protein kinase R (PKR) is activated by viral double-stranded RNA and phosphorylates translation initiation factor eIF2α, thereby inhibiting translation and virus replication. Most poxviruses contain two PKR inhibitors, called E3 and K3 in vaccinia virus (VACV), which are determinants of viral host range. The prevailing model for E3 function is that it inhibits PKR through the non-specific sequestration of double-stranded (ds) RNA. Our data revealed that Syrian hamster PKR was resistant to E3, which is at odds with the sequestration model. However, Syrian hamster PKR was still sensitive to K3 inhibition. In contrast, Armenian hamster PKR showed opposite sensitivities, being sensitive to E3 and resistant to K3 inhibition. Mutational analyses of hamster PKRs showed that sensitivity to E3 inhibition was largely determined by the region linking the dsRNA-binding domains and the kinase domain of PKR, whereas two amino acid residues in the kinase domain (helix αG) determined sensitivity to K3. Expression of PKRs in congenic cells showed that Syrian hamster PKR containing the two Armenian hamster PKR residues in helix-αG was resistant to wild type VACV infection, and that cells expressing either hamster PKR recapitulated the phenotypes observed in species-derived cell lines. The observed resistance of Syrian hamster PKR to E3 explains its host range function and challenges the paradigm that dsRNA-binding PKR inhibitors mainly act by the sequestration of dsRNA.SignificanceThe molecular mechanisms that govern the host range of viruses are incompletely understood. A small number of poxvirus genes have been identified that influence the host range of poxviruses. We show that the host range functions of E3 and K3, two host range factors from vaccinia virus, are a result of species-specific interactions with the antiviral protein kinase R (PKR) and that PKR from closely related species displayed dramatic differences in their sensitivities to these viral inhibitors. While there is a substantial body of work demonstrating host-specific interactions with K3, the current model for E3-mediated PKR inhibition is that E3 non-specifically sequesters dsRNA to prevent PKR activation. This model does not predict species-specific sensitivity to E3; therefore, our data suggest that the current model is incomplete, and that dsRNA sequestration is not the primary mechanism for E3 activity.
miRTarDS: High-Accuracy Refining Protein-level MicroRNA Target Interactions from Prediction Databases Using Sentence-BERT
Authors: Chen Baiming 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression by binding to mRNAs, inhibiting translation, or promoting mRNA degradation. miRNAs are of great importance in the development of various diseases. Currently, numerous sequence-based miRNA target prediction tools are available, however, only 1% of their predictions have been experimentally validated. In this study, we propose a novel approach that leverages disease similarity degree between miRNAs and genes as a key feature to further refine human sequence-based predicted miRNA target interactions (MTIs). To quantify the similarity degree of diseases, we fine-tuned the Sentence-BERT model. Our method achieved an F1 score of 0.88 in accurately distinguishing human protein-level experimentally validated MTIs (functional MTIs, validated through western blot or reporter assay) and predicted MTIs. Moreover, this method exhibits exceptional generalizability across different databases. We applied the proposed method to analyze 1,220,904 human MTIs sourced from miRTarbase, miRDB, and miRWalk, encompassing 6,085 genes and 1,261 pre-miRNAs. Our model was trained in miRTarBase 2022. However, we accurately identified 90% (518/574) of the updated functional MTIs in miRTarbase 2025. This study has the potential to provide valuable insights into the understanding of miRNA-gene regulatory networks and to promote advancements in disease diagnosis, treatment, and drug development.
Sustaining success: the power of relational bonding in building franchisee trust in South Korea’s food service industry
Authors: Koo Dong-Woo , Lee Sae-Mi 
Published: May 2024

PurposeRelationship marketing has emerged as pivotal, aiming to bolster collaboration and reduce uncertainty for both franchisors and franchisees. However, understanding the nuanced impact of relational bonding strategies – financial, social, and structural – on franchisee outcomes, particularly in South Korea’s food service industry, remains lacking. This study is an in-depth exploration of the nuanced impact of franchisors’ relational bonding strategies – structural, social, and economic – on critical franchisee outcomes in the food service industry.Design/methodology/approachBy leveraging data from 496 franchisees in South Korea, our investigation meticulously delineates the unique contributions of these bonding strategies in enhancing franchisee’s social and economic satisfaction, building trust in franchisors and fostering long-term orientation among franchisees. This study unravels the complex mediating roles that satisfaction and trust play in the dynamic interplay between franchisors’ bonding efforts and the cultivation of enduring franchisee relationships.FindingsThe study reveals that structural, social, and economic bonding impact social satisfaction, while all relational bonding factors directly influence economic satisfaction. Structural and economic bonding influence trust in the franchisor, but social bonding does not. Economic and social satisfaction directly affect trust, and only economic satisfaction directly influences long-term orientation. Finally, trust in the franchisor positively affects long-term orientation.Originality/valueWe offer fresh insights into the strategic management of franchisor–franchisee relationships, aiming to enrich the literature on relationship marketing by highlighting the differential impacts and significance of distinct bonding strategies in promoting sustainable franchise partnerships.
Leadership training and development in the age of artificial intelligence
Authors: Sposato Martin 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine the multifaceted implications of AI on leadership dynamics and organizational practices. By synthesizing insights from behavioral theory, AI analytics, and ethical considerations, the study aims to equip leaders with the requisite knowledge, skills, and mindset to foster adaptive leadership, anticipate change, and cultivate innovation amidst AI-driven disruptions.

Design/methodology/approach
This article employs a qualitative research approach, integrating literature review and conceptual analysis to explore the intersection of leadership development and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Drawing insights from scholarly articles, theoretical frameworks and practice, the study elucidates the evolving landscape of leadership in the context of AI adoption. Practical action points are derived to guide organizational leaders and educators in navigating AI-induced transformations effectively.

Findings
The integration of AI into leadership dynamics necessitates a paradigm shift in leadership paradigms, emphasizing the fusion of technical proficiency with emotional intelligence. Behavioral theory coupled with AI analytics offers valuable insights into effective leadership behaviors, facilitating the design of tailored leadership development programs. Proactive leadership strategies, ethical considerations, and talent management emerge as pivotal factors in navigating AI-induced transformations and fostering organizational resilience.

Originality/value
This article contributes to the literature by synthesizing diverse perspectives on AI leadership and offering practical action points for organizational leaders and educators. By highlighting the integration of behavioral theory, AI analytics, and ethical considerations, the study underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in leadership research and education. The insights derived from this study inform organizational practices, curriculum development in higher education, and future research agendas, fostering ethical AI adoption and cultivating adaptive leadership cultures in the age of Artificial Intelligence.
School-to-school partnerships: an approach to improving Syrian schools in post-conflict recovery
Authors: Alkalash Ibrahim , Alkalash Mohammad 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis research seeks to highlight school partnerships as an approach to improving schools and halting the deterioration of their performance in an environment that has suffered from the consequences of conflict for more than a decade.Design/methodology/approachThe research used the qualitative method, and the data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 school leaders and teachers.FindingsThe results showed the presence of positive attitudes toward inter-school partnerships and their perception of many benefits, the most prominent of which was increasing social cohesion in school and surrounding communities that suffer from divisions resulting from conflict. A set of obstacles includes legislative obstacles, a low degree of autonomy, low competency of school leaders, a lack of trust and incentives.Originality/valueThis study proposes a range of solutions to address the challenges associated with building partnerships. The research emphasizes the significance the school-to-school partnerships and their positive role in improving the performance of schools in developing countries, especially in environments suffering from the consequences of civil wars and social divisions.
Model-free visual servoing based on active disturbance rejection control and adaptive estimator for robotic manipulation without calibration
Authors: Tian Jun , Zhong Xungao , Peng Xiafu , Hu Huosheng , Liu Qiang 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Visual feedback control is a promising solution for robots work in unstructured environments, and this is accomplished by estimation of the time derivative relationship between the image features and the robot moving. While some of the drawbacks associated with most visual servoing (VS) approaches include the vision–motor mapping computation and the robots’ dynamic performance, the problem of designing optimal and more effective VS systems still remains challenging. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to propose and evaluate the VS method for robots in an unstructured environment.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper presents a new model-free VS control of a robotic manipulator, for which an adaptive estimator aid by network learning is proposed using online estimation of the vision–motor mapping relationship in an environment without the knowledge of statistical noise. Based on the adaptive estimator, a model-free VS schema was constructed by introducing an active disturbance rejection control (ADRC). In our schema, the VS system was designed independently of the robot kinematic model.

Findings
The various simulations and experiments were conducted to verify the proposed approach by using an eye-in-hand robot manipulator without calibration and vision depth information, which can improve the autonomous maneuverability of the robot and also allow the robot to adapt its motion according to the image feature changes in real time. In the current method, the image feature trajectory was stable in the camera field range, and the robot’s end motion trajectory did not exhibit shock retreat. The results showed that the steady-state errors of image features was within 19.74 pixels, the robot positioning was stable within 1.53 mm and 0.0373 rad and the convergence rate of the control system was less than 7.21 s in real grasping tasks.

Originality/value
Compared with traditional Kalman filtering for image-based VS and position-based VS methods, this paper adopts the model-free VS method based on the adaptive mapping estimator combination with the ADRC controller, which is effective for improving the dynamic performance of robot systems. The proposed model-free VS schema is suitable for robots’ grasping manipulation in unstructured environments.
Sustainable investing in extreme market conditions: doing well while doing good
Authors: Valadkhani Abbas , O'Mahony Barry 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe aim of this study is to identify environmental, social and governance (ESG)-focused funds that can effectively uphold ethical principles while also delivering competitive financial returns by evaluating the performance of 24 well-established exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The study also compares the performance of four widely recognized ETFs representing NASDAQ (ticker: QQQ), S&P500 (SPY), Dow Jones (DIA) and Russell 2000 (IWM) with the sample of 24 ESG funds.Design/methodology/approachThis paper utilizes four complementary measures, namely Sharpe, Sortino, Omega and Calmar ratios, to assess the risk-adjusted return performance of ETFs, with a particular emphasis on extreme downside risk.FindingsThe findings indicate that ESG-focused ETFs can predominantly outperform DIA and IWM in the last five years (1 November 2018–22 March 2023). However, when compared to QQQ and SPY, only ICLN, SUSA and DSI consistently delivered competitive risk-adjusted returns. The performance of DSI and SUSA is almost equivalent to QQQ and SPY even during the last ten years.Practical implicationsThe paper conducts a risk-return analysis of alternative ESG investment funds, suggesting that not all ETFs are created equal and that careful selection is vital for achieving different investment objectives. It is imperative to recognize that past performance is not a reliable indicator of future outcomes, requiring consideration of other factors in the post-evaluation phase.Social implicationsThe study provides evidence to support the “doing well while doing good” hypothesis, indicating that competitive returns are achievable while also engaging in socially responsible investment.Originality/valueThis study fills a vital gap in the literature on ESG investment by highlighting that the choice of funds stands as the primary factor responsible for the conflicting findings by previous studies.
Under the influence: the Kusile tender and state capture permeating the national prosecuting authority
Authors: Curlewis Llewelyn Gray , Carter Katelyn-Mae 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to give light to the present order of state capture and corruption within South Africa at present. South Africans often consider the National Prosecuting Authority to be an independent body which is free of the corruption of the rest of the Government; however, the situation that surrounds the Kusile Tender will suggest otherwise.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper’s approach is purely qualitative using journal articles, textbooks, reports, periodicals, speeches and legislation as its basis. It is through a consolidation of this literature that this paper was formed.

Findings
This paper determines that even the National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa is not free from the scourge that is corruption through the depiction of the Kusile Tender. Within this tender, the National Prosecuting Authority entered into a non-prosecution agreement with a defendant, Asea Brown Boveri, which cannot be accounted for in the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977.

Originality/value
The concept of state capture and corruption are not new to any jurisdiction, let alone South Africa. This paper, however, intends to give insight into how even the departments which the public believe to be (and are constitutionally mandated to be) independent can fall prey to corrupt dealings.
Do takeover premiums hurt post-acquisition performance? – Marketing capabilities matter!
Authors: Han Daoqin , Sun Yue , Wen Yuan , Su Lixun , Tan Jiayuan 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe primary aim of this study is to resolve a longstanding debate concerning the impact of takeover premiums on post-acquisition performance. Specifically, we aim to examine how acquirers' marketing capabilities and payment methods moderate the relationship between takeover premiums and post-acquisition performance.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs linear regression to examine the relationship between acquirers' marketing capabilities, payment methods, takeover premiums and post-acquisition performance in the Chinese manufacturing industry. Data for the analysis were collected from both mergers and acquisition (M&A) announcements and the China Stock Market & Accounting Research Database (CSMAR), covering 1,169 acquisitions from 2012 to 2021.FindingsThe results indicate that acquirers' marketing capabilities moderate the impact of takeover premiums on post-acquisition performance. When acquirers possess strong marketing capabilities, takeover premiums increase post-acquisition performance. Conversely, when acquirers lack strong marketing capabilities, takeover premiums are not significantly related to post-acquisition performance. Additionally, it is noteworthy that takeover premiums show a positive correlation with post-acquisition performance, irrespective of the payment methods employed by acquirers for target firms.Originality/valueGiven that takeover premiums are essential for acquiring resources from target firms, it is crucial to maximize the value of these acquired resources. Our findings suggest that acquirers with weaker marketing capabilities before the deal should consider a more conservative approach to pricing target firms.