bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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.
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

AbstractTo 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

AbstractWhile 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

AbstractWe 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

AbstractIn 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.
Embracing intelligent machines: A qualitative study to explore the transformational trends in the workplace
Authors: Annamalai Sumathi , Vasunandan Aditi 
Published: January 2024

PurposeWith 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/approachWe 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.FindingsThis 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/valueThis 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

PurposeEnvironmental 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/approachThe 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.FindingsThere 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/valueThe 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

PurposeDespite 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/approachThis 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.FindingsThe 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/valueThis 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

PurposeThe 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/approachA 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.FindingsBased 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 implicationsThe 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/valueThe 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

AbstractIntramuscular 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.