bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Return to Sport and Duty in French Military Personnel After Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy
Authors: de Geofroy Bernard , Chateau Lucas , Barbier Olivier , Demoures Thomas , Coste Sébastien , Mathieu Laurent , de L’Escalopier Nicolas , Choufani Camille
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) is a surgical option for medial femorotibial osteoarthritis, which preserves articular cartilage by correcting the extra-articular deformities of the lower limbs that cause osteoarthritis. This is an increasingly popular treatment in a population with high functional demand, such as the French military population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of return to work and military activities at 6 months postsurgery and at last follow-up in this military population following MOWHTO.

The hypothesis of this study was that MOWHTO enabled a majority of service members to return to the same level of activity within 6 months of surgery.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective, multicenter study including all French military personnel operated on for MOWHTO alone for osteoarthritis of medial compartment between 2008 and 2018 in different Military Teaching Hospitals. We excluded civilian patients. For each patient, a questionnaire was used to collect epidemiological, professional, sports, and functional data. The primary endpoint was the rate of return to work at 6 months postsurgery. We also studied the recovery of sports activities and functional results at a 6.6-year follow-up by standardized questionnaires (Tegner activity scale, Lysholm, IKDC subjective (International Knee Documentation Commitee)).

Results

Twenty-four MOWHTOs were performed during this period in a cohort of 22 French military personnel. Return to work at 6 months was possible in 20/24 cases (83.3%). Of the four patients who did not return to work at 6 months, two changed their activities, while the other two returned to their jobs after 6 months. The rate of resumption of sporting activities at an equal or higher level was 50% (11/22). There was no difference between pre- and postoperative Tegner Activity Scale scores at the longest follow-up (P = .08). The mean postoperative Lysholm scores were 73.5 (standard deviation 17.8) and IKDC 59 (standard deviation 8.7). No intraoperative complications were found, and one case of postoperative infection was found.

Conclusions

A total of 83% of the operated soldiers were able to return to their professional activities in less than 6 months. We observed a functional improvement at the last follow-up. Comparing these results with data from civilian populations, the rate of occupational recovery is comparable. However, the return to sport is much better in the series of nonmilitary patients with approximately 90% return to work and sport in the year following surgery. MOWHTO improves the functional results of the knee, enabling a return to work and sport in most cases in young, active populations such as the French military.
Achieving female supervisory representation in US law enforcement agencies: The roles of organizational structure, practice, and context
Authors: Matusiak Matthew C , Frazier Joanna D
Published: January 2024

The current research explores relationships between law enforcement agencies’ organizational structures and practices and the representation of women in supervisory positions. Utilizing Law Enforcement Management and Administrative Statistics (2016) and American Community Survey (2011–15) survey data, we employed fractional response and binary logistic regression models to assess both the proportions of female officers in supervisory positions and differences between agencies that do and do not employ them. Results indicate organizational structures and practices play a limited role in shaping supervisory representation. The promotion of women, therefore, appears to be shaped to a greater extent by those managing the process rather than the framework it occurs within.
Does oncolytic viruses‐mediated metabolic reprogramming benefit or harm the immune microenvironment?
Authors: Peng Chengcheng , Xiao Pengpeng , Li Nan
Published: January 2024

Oncolytic virus immunotherapy as a new tumor therapy has made remarkable achievements in clinical practice. And metabolic reprogramming mediated by oncolytic virus has a significant impact on the immune microenvironment. This review summarized the reprogramming of host cell glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and glutamine metabolism by oncolytic virus and illustrated the effects of metabolic reprogramming on the immune microenvironment. It was found that oncolytic virus‐induced reprogramming of glucose metabolism in tumor cells has both beneficial and detrimental effects on the immune microenvironment. In addition, oncolytic virus can promote fatty acid synthesis in tumor cells, inhibit oxidative phosphorylation, and promote glutamine catabolism, which facilitates the anti‐tumor immune function of immune cells. Therefore, targeted metabolic reprogramming is a new direction to improve the efficacy of oncolytic virus immunotherapy.
What's new in pediatric asthma and rhinitis phenotypes and endotypes?
Authors: Roberto Giulia , Barberi Salvatore , Marseglia Gian Luigi , Licari Amelia
Published: January 2024

Purpose of review

This review explores the evolving landscape of pediatric asthma and rhinitis, focusing on identifying and characterizing different subtypes.

Recent findings

Childhood asthma and rhinitis are prevalent respiratory conditions frequently occurring together. To address the need for a precise definition of these diseases, an unbiased and comprehensive phenotyping approach has been undertaken with hypothesis-free analysis of extensive datasets to uncover new relationships among clinical, environmental, and biological characteristics. On the other hand, the concept of endotype is elaborate and multifaceted, representing distinct pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the clinical presentation and requires the identification of reliable biomarkers. The recognition of multiple inflammatory endotypes underscores the need for in-depth characterization, which could revolutionize the treatment landscape.

Comprehending phenotypes and endotypes is crucial for customizing effective and personalized management approaches for children with asthma and rhinitis. More precise and efficient care can be administered through recognition and detailed characterization, ultimately enhancing patients’ quality of life.
Progestin-primed ovarian stimulation
Authors: Giles Juan , Cruz Fabio , Garcia-Velasco Juan A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose of review

The use of progestins as pituitary suppressors has increased progressively, along with more detailed indications for their use, thereby consolidating an alternative approach to the personalization of ovarian stimulation.

Recent findings

Based on the ability of progesterone to inhibit ovulation, progestins have been used in ovarian stimulation (OS) follicular protocols to prevent a luteinizing hormone surge in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), as an alternative to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue administration. This review explores the different types of progestogen protocols and their efficacy depending on the type of population or reproductive procedure in which they are administered and in comparison with that of GnRH analogues. Their effect on oocytes and embryos and their safety and cost-effectiveness are also analyzed.

Progestins have proven their effectiveness as a gonadotropin adjuvant in terms of ovarian response, reproductive outcome, and safety. In addition, they offer the convenience of oral administration and a lower cost than GnRH analogues. Whereas oocytes or embryos should be vitrified as it displaces the receptive period with the consequent asynchrony between embryo and endometrium. The evidence endorses progestins as a more friendly approach to OS, especially when frozen-thawed embryo transfer is planned.
Long-term outcome of Transscleral Four-Point Fixation of Akreos Intraocular Lens with Closed Continuous-Loop Suture
Authors: Zhu Pingfan , Wan Lei , Chen Shijiu , Zhu Wenting , Jiang Han , Liu Xiaoyan , Yuan Gongqiang , Zhang Jingjing
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE

To report the long-term clinical outcomes of transscleral four-point fixation of Akreos intraocular lens (IOL) using the closed continuous-loop suture.

METHODS:

Retrospective, multicenter interventional case series. Primary outcome measures were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal endothelial cell density, and complications with a minimum of 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS:

192 eyes of 177 patients from two surgical hospital sites were identified. The mean BCVA improved from 0.88 ± 0.74 logMAR (Snellen 20/152) preoperatively to 0.42 ± 0.52 logMAR (Snellen 20/53) postoperatively (P<0.001). Mean preoperative IOP was 17.51 ± 8.67 mmHg and the mean postoperative IOP at final follow-up was15.08 ± 4.18 mmHg (P= 0.001). The mean corneal endothelial cell density significantly reduced from 2259 ± 729 cells/mm2 to 2077 ± 659 cells/mm2, representing a cell loss of 5.73% (P < 0.001). The IOL was fixed well during follow-up. There were no intraoperative complications noted. Postoperative complications included transient ocular hypertension in 15 eyes (7.81%), hypotony in 2 eyes (1.04%), retinal detachment in 1 eye (0.52%), and macular edema in 1 eye (0.52%).

CONCLUSION:

The transscleral four-point fixation Akreos IOL using the closed continuous-loop suture was effective and safe with satisfactory visual acuity with minimum 1-year follow-up.
Transcriptomic profiling reveals a pronociceptive role for angiotensin II in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Higham James P. , Bhebhe Charity N. , Gupta Rohit A. , Tranter Michael M. , Barakat Farah M. , Dogra Harween , Bab Natalie , Wozniak Eva , Barker Katie H. , Wilson Catherine H. , Mein Charles A. , Raine Tim , Cox James J. , Wood John N. , Croft Nicholas M. , Wright Paul D. , Bulmer David C.
Published: January 2024

Visceral pain is a leading cause of morbidity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), contributing significantly to reduced quality of life. Currently available analgesics often lack efficacy or have intolerable side effects, driving the need for a more complete understanding of the mechanisms causing pain. Whole transcriptome gene expression analysis was performed by bulk RNA sequencing of colonic biopsies from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) reporting abdominal pain and compared with noninflamed control biopsies. Potential pronociceptive mediators were identified based on gene upregulation in IBD biopsy tissue and cognate receptor expression in murine colonic sensory neurons. Pronociceptive activity of identified mediators was assessed in assays of sensory neuron and colonic afferent activity. RNA sequencing analysis highlighted a 7.6-fold increase in the expression of angiotensinogen transcripts, Agt, which encode the precursor to angiotensin II (Ang II), in samples from UC patients (P = 3.2 × 10−8). Consistent with the marked expression of the angiotensin AT1 receptor in colonic sensory neurons, Ang II elicited an increase in intracellular Ca2+ in capsaicin-sensitive, voltage-gated sodium channel subtype NaV1.8-positive sensory neurons. Ang II also evoked action potential discharge in high-threshold colonic nociceptors. These effects were inhibited by the AT1 receptor antagonist valsartan. Findings from our study identify AT1 receptor-mediated colonic nociceptor activation as a novel pathway of visceral nociception in patients with UC. This work highlights the potential utility of angiotensin receptor blockers, such as valsartan, as treatments for pain in IBD.
Association of Serum Osteoprotegerin With Vascular Calcification, and Cardiovascular and Graft Outcomes in Kidney Transplant Patients: Results From the KNOW-KT
Authors: Jeon Hee Jung , Ryu Jung-Hwa , Kim Myung-Gyu , Huh Kyu Ha , Lee Kyo Won , Kim Chan-Duck , Kang Kyung Pyo , Ro Han , Han Seungyeup , Yang Jaeseok ,   the KNOW-KT Study Group
Published: January 2024

Background.

Vascular calcification and stiffness contribute to increased cardiovascular morbidity in patients with chronic kidney disease. This study investigated associations between serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels and vascular calcification or stiffness to assess cardiovascular and graft outcomes in kidney transplant patients.

Methods.

The KoreaN cohort study for Outcome in patients With Kidney Transplantation was a prospective multicenter cohort study. Serum OPG levels were measured at baseline and 3 y after transplantation in 1018 patients. Patients were classified into high and low OPG groups according to median serum OPG levels. The median follow-up duration was 93.5 mo.

Results.

The mean age was 45.8 ± 11.7 y and 62.9% were men. Patients with high OPG had significantly higher coronary artery calcium scores, abdominal aortic calcification scores, and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocities than those with lower OPG; these parameters remained significant for 5 y after transplantation. The 3-y OPG levels were lower than baseline values (P < 0.001) and were positively correlated (r = 0.42, P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that high OPG levels were significantly associated with posttransplant cardiovascular events (P = 0.008) and death-censored graft loss (P = 0.004). Similar findings regarding posttransplant cardiovascular events (P = 0.012) and death-censored graft loss (P = 0.037) were noted in patients with high OPG at the 3-y follow-up. Mediation analyses revealed that coronary artery calcium scores, abdominal aortic calcification scores, and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocities could act as mediators between serum OPG levels and posttransplant cardiovascular events.

Conclusions.

Serum OPG concentration is associated with vascular calcification and stiffness and could be a significant risk factor for cardiovascular outcomes and graft loss in patients undergoing kidney transplantation.
Morphology of nares associated with stereo-olfaction in baleen whales
Authors: Ryan Conor , Martins Maria C. I. , Healy Kevin , Bejder Lars , Cerchio Salvatore , Christiansen Fredrik , Durban John , Fearnbach Holly , Fortune Sarah , Friedlaender Ari , Koski William R. , Miller Carolyn , Rodríguez-González Fabian M. , Segre Paolo S. , Urbán R Jorge , Vivier Fabien , Weir Caroline R. , Moore Michael J.
Published: January 2024

The sensory mechanisms used by baleen whales (Mysticeti) for locating ephemeral, dense prey patches in vast marine habitats are poorly understood. Baleen whales have a functional olfactory system with paired rather than single blowholes (nares), potentially enabling stereo-olfaction. Dimethyl sulfide (DMS) is an odorous gas emitted by phytoplankton in response to grazing by zooplankton. Some seabirds use DMS to locate prey, but this ability has not been demonstrated in whales. For 14 extant species of baleen whale, nares morphometrics (imagery from unoccupied aerial systems, UAS) was related to published trophic level indices using Bayesian phylogenetic mixed modelling. A significant negative relationship was found between nares width and whale trophic level (β= −0.08, lower 95% CI = −0.13, upper 95% CI = −0.03), corresponding with a 39% increase in nares width from highest to lowest trophic level. Thus, species with nasal morphology best suited to stereo-olfaction are more zooplanktivorous. These findings provide evidence that some baleen whale species may be able to localize odorants e.g. DMS. Our results help direct future behavioural trials of olfaction in baleen whales, by highlighting the most appropriate species to study. This is a research priority, given the potential for DMS-mediated plastic ingestion by whales.
Oriental pied hornbills (Anthracoceros albirostris) solve invisible displacement tasks in a test of Piagetian object permanence
Authors: Yao Ruitong , Garcia-Pelegrin Elias
Published: January 2024

Object permanence, the ability to mentally represent objects even when they are not directly accessible to the senses, is of vital importance for the survival of both human and non-human animals. The Oriental pied hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris) is an Asian species of hornbill displaying remarkable adaptability in various environments, yet little is known about their cognitive abilities. Their breeding behaviour is unique, as the female hornbill seals herself inside a cavity before laying eggs and the male feeds her and their offspring without visual contact, strongly suggesting the presence of object permanence to some degree. In this study, six Oriental pied hornbills underwent testing for object permanence, including a series of seven standard Piagetian tasks involving visible and invisible displacements. The subjects consistently demonstrated spontaneous object permanence in all stages leading up to the invisible displacement stage. Half of the subjects achieved full stage 6 double invisible displacement Piagetian object permanence, while the other half reached stage 5 double visible displacement. Breeding behaviour and the duration of developmental stages are proposed as potential factors influencing object permanence ability in this species of hornbill.
SiO
2
-coated lead halide perovskites core–shell and their applications: a mini-review
Authors: Trinh Cuc Kim , Ahmad Zubair
Published: January 2024

Research on lead halide perovskites has demonstrated that they are one of the potential materials for optoelectronic and bio-related applications owing to their promising optical and electronic properties. However, their poor chemical stability in ambient environments is a critical factor that affects their practical applications. Silica is known for its excellent environmental/chemical stability and good optical properties. Therefore, SiO
2
-coated lead halide perovskites have been studied by introducing the protective layer containing SiO
2
to prevent the rapid destruction of their surface chemistry and environmental degradation. It is found that lead halide perovskite core–shell can significantly improve the stability and preserve their high photoluminescence quantum yield. In addition, controlling the shell thickness is also important to produce effective and suitable inorganic halide perovskites core–shell for practical applications. This mini-review discusses the stability, synthesis method and applications of SiO
2
-coated lead halide perovskite core–shell. Furthermore, the effect of the SiO
2
shell thickness on lead halide perovskite core–shell-based applications is also reviewed.
Chytrid infections exhibit historical spread and contemporary seasonality in a declining stream-breeding frog
Authors: Belasen A. M. , Peek R. A. , Adams A. J. , Russell I. D. , De León M. E. , Adams M. J. , Bettaso J. , Breedveld K. G. H. , Catenazzi A. , Dillingham C. P. , Grear D. A. , Halstead B. J. , Johnson P. G. , Kleeman P. M. , Koo M. S. , Koppl C. W. , Lauder J. D. , Padgett-Flohr G. , Piovia-Scott J. , Pope K. L. , Vredenburg V. , Westphal M. , Wiseman K. , Kupferberg S. J.
Published: January 2024

Species with extensive geographical ranges pose special challenges to assessing drivers of wildlife disease, necessitating collaborative and large-scale analyses. The imperilled foothill yellow-legged frog (
Rana boylii
) inhabits a wide geographical range and variable conditions in rivers of California and Oregon (USA), and is considered threatened by the pathogen
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
(Bd). To assess drivers of Bd infections over time and space, we compiled over 2000 datapoints from
R. boylii
museum specimens (collected 1897–2005) and field samples (2005–2021) spanning 9° of latitude. We observed a south-to-north spread of Bd detections beginning in the 1940s and increase in prevalence from the 1940s to 1970s, coinciding with extirpation from southern latitudes. We detected eight high-prevalence geographical clusters through time that span the species' geographical range. Field-sampled male
R. boylii
exhibited the highest prevalence, and juveniles sampled in autumn exhibited the highest loads. Bd infection risk was highest in lower elevation rain-dominated watersheds, and with cool temperatures and low stream-flow conditions at the end of the dry season. Through a holistic assessment of relationships between infection risk, geographical context and time, we identify the locations and time periods where Bd mitigation and monitoring will be critical for conservation of this imperilled species.
Beakiation: how a novel parrot gait expands the locomotor repertoire of living birds
Authors: Dickinson Edwin , Young Melody W. , Granatosky Michael C.
Published: January 2024

Occupation of arboreal habitats poses myriad locomotor challenges, driving both anatomical and behavioural innovations across various tetrapod lineages. Here, we report and biomechanically assess a novel, beak-driven locomotor mode—‘beakiation’—by which parrots advance along the underside of narrow arboreal substrates. Using high-speed videography and kinetic analyses, we describe the limb loading patterns and pendular mechanics of beakiation, and compare the biomechanical characteristics of this gait with other suspensory behaviours (namely, forelimb-driven brachiation and inverted quadrupedal walking). We report that the parrot beak experiences comparable force magnitudes (approx. 150% body weight in the normal plane; approx. 50% body weight in the fore–aft plane) to the forelimbs of brachiating primates. Parrot beakiation is also characterized by longer-than-expected pendular periods, similar to observations of gibbon brachiation. However, in terms of mechanical energy recovery, beakiation is typified by lower levels of energetic recovery than brachiating specialists: a product of its slower, more careful nature. The observation of this novel behaviour—which adds to a growing base of literature regarding beak-assisted locomotor strategies in birds—highlights the extraordinary behavioural plasticity of birds, the functional versatility of the avian beak, and the difficulties in reconstructing an animal's locomotor repertoire from morphological characteristics alone.
Microfungal Flora of Apis mellifera anatoliaca (Hymenoptera: Apidae)and Varroa destructor (Mesostigmata: Varroidae)from the Eastern Black Sea Region and Fungal Vector Capacity in Honey Bee Colonies
Authors: USTA MEHTAP
Published: January 2024

Honey bees have great economic importance both in Turkey and in the world with their products and their contribution to pollination. For this reason, many microflora and microbiota studies have been carried out on bees. While these studies were only aimed at the isolation of pathogens, today, the ecological roles of non-pathogenic flora members and how they can be utilised are being investigated. Considering the importance of pathogens, it is expected that the number of studies will be high. This study was carried out to determine the microfungal flora of the body surfaces and digestive systems of dead honey bee (Apis mellifera anatoliaca) and Varroa destructor samples taken from different apiaries in the Eastern Black Sea Region (Gümüşhane, Trabzon, Artvin and Ordu) in 2022. As a result of the study, a total of 11 different fungal species belonging to the genera Penicillium, Alternaria, Mucor, Trichoderma, Fusarium, Aspergillus and Verticillium were identified and the relationships of these fungi with bees were discussed based on the literature.
CRISPR-Enabled Autonomous Transposable Element (CREATE) for RNA-based gene editing and delivery
Authors: Wang Yuxiao , Lin Ruei-Zeng , Harris Meghan , Lavayen Bianca , McCreedy Bruce , Hofmeister Robert , Getts Daniel
Published: January 2024

To address a wide range of genetic diseases, genome editing tools that can achieve targeted delivery of large genes without causing double-stand breaks (DSBs) or requiring DNA templates are necessary. Here, we introduce the CRISPR-Enabled Autonomous Transposable Element (CREATE), a genome editing system that combines the programmability and precision of CRISPR/Cas9 with the RNA-mediated gene insertion capabilities of the human LINE1 (L1) element. CREATE employs a modified L1 mRNA to carry a payload gene, and a Cas9 nickase to facilitate targeted editing by L1-mediated reverse transcription and integration without relying on DSBs or DNA templates. Using the system, a 1.1 kb gene cassette comprising an EF1α promoter and green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene is inserted into several genomic loci of multiple human cell lines. Mechanistic studies reveal that the CREATE system is highly specific with no observed off-target events. Together, these findings establish CREATE as a programmable gene delivery technology solely based on RNA components, enabling large-scale in vivo genome engineering with broad therapeutic potential.
Multi-trait genetic analysis identifies novel pleiotropic loci for depression and schizophrenia in East Asians
Authors: Song Yingchao , Li Linzehao , Jiang Yue , Peng Bichen , Jiang Hengxuan , Chao Zhen , Chang Xiao
Published: January 2024

While genetic correlations, pleiotropic loci, and shared genetic mechanisms of psychiatric disorders have been extensively studied in European populations, the investigation of these factors in East Asian populations has been relatively limited. To identify novel pleiotropic risk loci for depression and schizophrenia (SCZ) in East Asians. We harnessed the most comprehensive dataset available for East Asians and quantified the genetic overlap between depression, SCZ, and their related traits via LD Score regression (LDSC) analyses. Besides the correlation between depression and SCZ, our analysis revealed significant genetic correlations between depression and obesity-related traits, such as weight, BMI, T2D, and HDL. In SCZ, significant correlations were detected with HDL, heart diseases and use of various medications. Conventional meta-analysis of depression and SCZ identified a novel locus at 1q25.2 in East Asians. Moreover, this locus was verified in the multi-trait analysis of GWAS (MTAG), which can improve the statistical power of single-trait GWAS by incorporating information from effect estimates across genetically correlated traits. Furthermore, multi-trait analysis of depression, SCZ and related traits identified ten novel pleiotropic loci for depression, and four for SCZ. Our findings demonstrate shared genetic underpinnings between depression and SCZ in East Asians, as well as their associated traits, providing novel candidate genes for the identification and prioritization of therapeutic targets specific to this population.
Identifying a Distractor Produces Object-Based Inhibition in an Allocentric Reference Frame for Saccade Planning
Authors: Olenick Coleman E. , Jordan Heather , Fallah Mazyar
Published: January 2024

We investigated whether distractor inhibition occurs relative to the target or fixation in a perceptual decision-making task using a purely saccadic response. Previous research has shown that during the process of discriminating a target from distractor, saccades made to a target deviate towards the distractor. Once discriminated, the distractor is inhibited, and trajectories deviate away from the distractor. Saccade deviation magnitudes provide a sensitive measure of target-distractor competition dependent on the distance between them. While saccades are planned in an egocentric reference frame (locations represented relative to fixation), object-based inhibition has been shown to occur in an allocentric reference frame (objects represented relative to each other independent of fixation). By varying the egocentric and allocentric distances of the target and distractor, we found that only egocentric distances contributed to saccade trajectories shifts towards the distractor during active decision-making. When the perceptual decision-making process was complete, and the distractor was inhibited, both ego- and allocentric distances independently contributed to saccade trajectory shifts away from the distractor. This is consistent with independent spatial and object-based inhibitory mechanisms. Therefore, we suggest that distractor inhibition is maintained in cortical visual areas with allocentric maps which then feeds into oculomotor areas for saccade planning.
Auditory stimuli extend the temporal window of visual integration by modulating alpha-band oscillations
Authors: Xu Mengting , Han Biao , Chen Qi , Shen Lu
Published: January 2024

In multisensory environments, how inputs from different sensory modalities interact to shape perception are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated how auditory stimuli influence the temporal dynamics of visual processing using electroencephalography (EEG). Participants were presented with two consecutive visual flashes, either accompanied by an auditory beep or without, and were asked to report their perception of one or two flashes. Behaviorally, we found that the introduction of auditory input induced a longer temporal window for integration. Alpha frequency analysis further revealed that the presence of auditory stimuli led to poststimulus alpha frequency degradation, positively correlating with the prolonged temporal window, supporting the idea that alpha oscillations represent the temporal window of visual integration. Further exploration of prestimulus alpha oscillations revealed that auditory stimuli diminished the predictive role of prestimulus alpha frequency while enhancing the predictive role of prestimulus alpha phase in shaping perceptual outcomes. A follow-up transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) experiment confirmed that alpha oscillations have a causal role in modulating visual perception in the absence of auditory stimuli but not when auditory stimuli were present. To probe the underlying mechanisms, we developed a computational model based on the phase-resetting hypothesis and perceptual cycle theory, which successfully replicated the core findings. These results reveal that auditory input extends the temporal window of visual integration by resetting alpha oscillations in the visual cortex, leading to alpha frequency reduction and an altered perception of visual events. This study advances the understanding of cross-modal interactions and highlights the dynamic, adaptive processes underlying sensory integration.
Efficient operator method for modeling mode mixing in misaligned optical cavities
Authors: Hughes W. J. , Doherty T. H. , Blackmore J. A. , Horak P. , Goodwin J. F.
Published: January 2024

The transverse field structure and diffraction loss of the resonant modes of Fabry-Pérot optical cavities are acutely sensitive to the alignment and shape of the mirror substrates. We develop extensions to the mode-mixing method applicable to arbitrary mirror shapes, which both facilitate fast calculation of the modes of cavities with transversely misaligned mirrors and enable the determination and transformation of the geometric properties of these modes. We show how these methods extend previous capabilities by including the practically motivated case of transverse mirror misalignment, presenting the ability to study the rich and complex structure of the resonant modes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 4-(2-chloroethyl)-5-methyl-1,2-dihydropyrazol-3-one
Authors: Naghiyev Farid N. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Akkurt Mehmet , Dukhnovsky Evgeny A. , Bhattarai Ajaya , Khalilov Ali N. , Mamedov İbrahim G.
Published: January 2024

In the crystal of the title compound, C6H9ClN2O, molecular pairs form dimers with an R
2
2(8) motif through N—H...O hydrogen bonds. These dimers are connect into ribbons parallel to the (100) plane with R
4
4(10) motifs by N—H...O hydrogen bonds along the c-axis direction. In addition, π–π [centroid-to-centroid distance = 3.4635 (9) Å] and C—Cl...π interactions between the ribbons form layers parallel to the (100) plane. The three-dimensional consolidation of the crystal structure is also ensured by Cl...H and Cl...Cl interactions between these layers. According to a Hirshfeld surface study, H...H (43.3%), Cl...H/H...Cl (22.1%) and O...H/H...O (18.7%) interactions are the most significant contributors to the crystal packing.
Embracing intelligent machines: A qualitative study to explore the transformational trends in the workplace
Authors: Annamalai Sumathi , Vasunandan Aditi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

With Industry 4.0 and the extensive rise of smart technologies, we are seeing remarkable transformations in work practices and workplaces. Scholars report the phenomenal progress of smart technologies. At the same time, we can hear the rhetoric emphasising their potential threats. This study focusses on how and where intelligent machines are leveraged in the workplace, how humans co-working with intelligent machines are affected and what they believe can be done to mitigate the risks of the increased use of intelligent machines.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted in-depth interviews with 15 respondents working in various leadership capacities associated with intelligent machines and technologies. Using NVivo, we coded and churned out the themes from the qualitative data collected.

Findings

This study shows how intelligent machines are leveraged across different industries, ranging from chatbots, intelligent sensors, cognitive systems and computer vision to the replica of the entire human being. They are used end-to-end in the value chain, increasing productivity, complementing human workers’ skillsets and augmenting decisions made by human workers. Human workers experience a blend of positive and negative emotions whilst co-working with intelligent machines, which influences their job satisfaction level. Organisations adopt several anticipatory strategies, like transforming into a learning organisation, identifying futuristic technologies and upskilling their human workers, regularly conducting social learning events and designing accelerated career paths to embrace intelligent technologies.

Originality/value

This study seeks to understand the emotional and practical implications of the use of intelligent machines by humans and how both entities can integrate and complement each other. These insights can help organisations and employees understand what future workplaces and practices will look like and how to remain relevant in this transformation.
Managing health through environmental policies. Analysis for European Union countries
Authors: Postula Marta , Kluza Krzysztof , Zioło Magdalena , Radecka-Moroz Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Environmental degradation resulting from human activities may adversely affect human health in multiple ways. Until now, policies aimed at mitigating environmental problems such as climate change, environmental pollution and damage to biodiversity have failed to clearly identify and drive the potential benefits of these policies on health. The conducted study assesses and demonstrates how specific environmental policies and instruments influence perceived human health in order to ensure input for a data-driven decision process.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted for the 2004–2020 period in European Union (EU) countries with the use of dynamic panel data modeling. Verification of specific policies' impact on dependent variables allows to indicate this their effectiveness and importance. As a result of the computed dynamic panel data models, it has been confirmed that a number of significant and meaningful relationships between the self-perceived health index and environmental variables can be identified.

Findings

There is a strong positive impact of environmental taxation on the health index, and the strength of this relationship causes effects to be observed in the very short term, even the following year. In addition, the development of renewable energy sources (RES) and the elimination of fossil fuels from the energy mix exert positive, although milder, effects on health. The reduction of ammonia emissions from agriculture and reducing noise pollution are other health-supporting factors that have been shown to be statistically valid. Results allow to identify the most efficient policies in the analyzed area in order to introduce those with the best results or a mix of such measures.

Originality/value

The results of the authors' research clearly indicate the health benefits of measures primarily aimed at improving environmental factors, such as environmental taxes in general. The authors have also discovered an unexpected negative impact of an increase in the share of energy taxes in total taxes on the health index. The presented study opens several possibilities for further investigation, especially in the context of the rapidly changing geopolitical environment and global efforts to respond to environmental and health challenges. The authors believe that the outcome of the authors' study may provide new arguments to policymakers pursuing solutions that are not always easily acceptable by the public.
Adoption decision of agricultural product traceability system in small and micro enterprises
Authors: Zhong Jianlan , Cheng Han , Jia Fu
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Despite its crucial role in ensuring food safety, traceability remains underutilized by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a vital component of China’s agricultural supply chain, thereby compromising the integrity of the supply chain traceability system. Therefore, this study sets out to explore the factors influencing SMEs’ adoption of traceability systems and the impact of these factors on SMEs’ intent to adopt such systems. Furthermore, the study presents a model to deepen understanding of system adoption in SMEs and provides a simulation demonstrating the evolutionary trajectory of adoption behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

This study considers the pivotal aspects of system adoption in SMEs, aiming to identify the influential factors through a grounded theory-based case study. Concurrently, it seeks to develop a mathematical model for SMEs’ adoption patterns and simulate the evolution of SMEs’ adoption behaviors using the Q-learning algorithm.

Findings

The adoption of traceability among SMEs is significantly influenced by factors such as system attributes, SMEs’ capability endowment, environmental factors and policy support and control. However, aspects of the SMEs’ capability endowment, specifically their learning rate and decay rate, have minimal impact on the adoption process. Furthermore, group pressure can expedite the attainment of an equilibrium state, wherein all SMEs adopt the system.

Originality/value

This study fills the existing knowledge gap about the adoption of traceability by SMEs in China’s agricultural supply chain. This study represents the pioneer study that identifies the factors influencing SMEs’ adoption and examines the effects of these factors on their traceability adoption, employing a multi-methodological approach that incorporates grounded theory, mathematical modeling and the Q-learning algorithm.
Conceptualising the robotisation of manufacturing work: a thematic analysis of the literature using soft systems thinking as lens
Authors: Stingl Verena , Christiansen Lasse , Hansen Andreas Kornmaaler , Lassen Astrid Heidemann , Cheng Yang
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The introduction of robots as value-adding “workers” on the shop floor triggers complex changes to manufacturing work. Such changes involve highly entangled relationships between technology, organisation and people. Understanding such entanglements requires a holistic assessment of contemporary robotised manufacturing work, to anticipate the dynamically emerging opportunities and risks of robotised work.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review of 87 papers was conducted to capture relevant themes of change in robotised manufacturing work. The literature was analysed using a thematic analysis approach, with Checkland’s soft systems thinking as an analytical framework.

Findings

Based on the literature analysis, the authors present a systemic conceptualisation of robotised manufacturing work. Specifically, the conceptualisation highlights four entangled themes of change: work, organisation of labour, workers’ (experiences) and the firm’s environment. Moreover, the authors discuss the complex patterns of interactions between these objects as relationships that defy straightforward cause–effect models.

Practical implications

The findings draw attention to complex interactions between robotisation and manufacturing work. It can, therefore, inform strategic decisions and support projects for robotisation from a holistic perspective.

Originality/value

The authors present a novel approach to studying and designing robotised manufacturing work as a conceptual system. In particular, the paper shifts the focus towards crucial properties of the system, which are subject to complex changes alongside the introduction of robot technology in manufacturing. Soft systems thinking enables new research avenues to explain complex phenomena at the intersection of robotisation and manufacturing work.
Synthesis of polymer-based antiviral coating using polyethylene glycol (PEG) and acrylic resin as binder
Authors: Raj Reasmy , Syafiq Amirul , Balakrishnan Vengadaesvaran , Ahmad Shakeel , Rahim Nasrudin Abd , Hassandarvish Pouya , Abu Bakar Sazaly , Pandey A.K.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to fabricate a polymer-based polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating with acrylic resin as a binder that can show antiviral activity against the feline coronavirus (FCov) on the glass substrate.

Design/methodology/approach

The PEG/acrylic coating systems of different weight percentages were coated on the glass substrates using the spray-coating method and cured at room temperature for 24 h.

Findings

The coating system containing 20 Wt.% of PEG exhibits the highest antiviral activities as high as 99.9% against FCov compared with other samples.

Research limitations/implications

Findings will be useful in the development of antiviral coating for PPE fabrics by using the simple synthesis method.

Originality/value

Application of PEG as an antiviral agent in the antiviral coating system with high antiviral activities about 99.9%.
Main motivations and barriers to pro-environmental behaviour: a study from the employee’s perspective
Authors: Juma Michilena Israel Javier , Ruiz Molina Maria Eugenia , Gil-Saura Irene
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify groups of employees based on their motivations, detecting the main barriers that may influence their willingness to participate in the pro-environmental initiatives proposed by their employer.

Design/methodology/approach

To identify the different groups of employees, an online survey was conducted, and the Chi-square automatic interaction detection algorithm segmentation technique was used with a sample of 483 employees from 9 Latin American universities.

Findings

The results allowed us to identify various segments, in which the main obstacle linked to intrinsic motivation is the university culture and, to a lesser extent, the lack of equipment, while for extrinsic motivation, the lack of infrastructure is the most determining factor. Likewise, the results reflect that, compared to the less motivated employees, those who show greater motivation (both intrinsic and extrinsic) are the ones who encounter the greatest barriers, so that the perceptions of the most motivated, as expert observers, help to identify the main obstacles that organisations must remove to promote pro-environmental behaviours among staff members.

Practical implications

The results obtained help to guide the representatives or organisational leaders on the actions that generate the greatest impact in the mitigation of climate change from a motivational approach of behavioural prediction.

Social implications

This study contributes to a more sustainable society by developing an understanding of how employees react to issues related to climate change. Knowing the perceptions of employees can be a turning point so that other members of society can get involved in pro-environmental behaviours.

Originality/value

Many studies have analysed the intrinsic and extrinsic motivations of employees to engage in pro-environmental behaviours; however, as far as the authors are aware, this has not been analysed from the perspective of barriers to motivation.
Smartphone‐based digital phenotyping for genome‐wide association study of intramuscular fat traits in longissimus dorsi muscle of pigs
Authors: Shen Yang , Chen Yuxi , Zhang Shufeng , Wu Ze , Lu Xiaoyu , Liu Weizhen , Liu Bang , Zhou Xiang
Published: January 2024

Intramuscular fat (IMF) content and distribution significantly contribute to the eating quality of pork. However, the current methods used for measuring these traits are complex, time‐consuming and costly. To simplify the measurement process, this study developed a smartphone application (App) called Pork IMF. This App serves as a rapid and portable phenotyping tool for acquiring pork images and extracting the image‐based IMF traits through embedded deep‐learning algorithms. Utilizing this App, we collected the IMF traits of the longissimus dorsi muscle in a crossbred population of Large White × Tongcheng pigs. Genome‐wide association studies detected 13 and 16 SNPs that were significantly associated with IMF content and distribution, respectively, highlighting NR2F2, MCTP2, MTLN, ST3GAL5, NDUFAB1 and PID1 as candidate genes. Our research introduces a user‐friendly digital phenotyping technology for quantifying IMF traits and suggests candidate genes and SNPs for genetic improvement of IMF traits in pigs.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the relationship between heavy smoking and probability discounting
Authors: Chiu Hsien‐Jane , Sun Cheuk‐Kwan , Wang Hung‐Yu , Chang Han‐Yun , Kuo Chun‐Hsien , Sue Yu‐Ru , Wu Shu‐Hsuan , Tung Shih‐Yi , Lee Chiao‐Yu , Yeh Pin‐Yang
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Probability discounting (PD), which refers to the process of adjusting the value of future probabilities when making decisions, is a method of measuring impulsive decision‐making; however, the relationship between PD and nicotine remains unclear. The current study aimed at investigating the significance of PD in individuals who smoke.

Methods

According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines, we searched the PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases for articles comparing individuals who smoke and their tobacco‐naïve controls using PD task as outcome measure from inception to May 2023. The main outcome was an overall difference in PD function, while subgroup analysis and meta‐regression were conducted to examine the analysis methods and the moderators of PD.

Results

Fourteen studies in total involving 384 individuals who smoke and 493 controls (mean age = 24.32 years, range = 15.1–38.05 years) were analyzed. The effect of smoking on PD was significant (g = 0.51, p = .02). The discounting parameter from the equation, compared to the area under the curve, was more sensitive to estimating PD function (p = .01). Regression analysis showed positive correlations of PD with female percentage, age, and the number of probability options (all p < .04), but not with the number of choices at each probability and maximum reward magnitude (all p > .07). There was no significant publication bias across the eligible studies (p = .09).

Conclusion and Scientific Significance

Our findings, which are the first to demonstrate a smaller PD (i.e., prone to risk‐taking) in individuals who smoke, shed light on the appropriate analysis method, gender effect, age, and probability options on the PD function.