bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing 30-day Acute Care Readmissions for Heart Failure Patients Through Implementation of a Discharge Bundle
Authors: Lindsey Jason , Welch Teresa
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Hospital readmissions have been a long-standing problem in the American health care system. Despite many efforts, programs, papers, and interventions identified and studied, 14% of all adult admissions result in a readmission. Readmissions are mostly considered preventable and are considered an indicator of care quality for a hospital. Due to unexpected readmissions, patients are at an increased risk for illness or injury, increased stress, financial strain, and diminished quality of life. Readmissions also negatively impact hospital systems related to decreased bed availability, stretched resources, and potential financial penalties and payment reductions. Patients with an admission related to heart failure are at an increased risk of readmission, with a national readmission rate of 23%.

Primary Practice Setting:

The quality improvement project was implemented on two telemetry units at an acute care hospital.

Methodology and Sample:

A gap analysis identified procedural and organizational reasons for readmission in the heart failure population at an acute care hospital. Using evidence-based best practice guidelines established by the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and the Heart Failure Society of America, a four-pronged proactive discharge bundle was implemented using the plan-do-study-act framework for continuous improvement. All patients admitted to the telemetry units with a primary or secondary diagnosis of heart failure received the discharge planning bundle: (1) an early assessment by the case management department, (2) patient-centered specialty heart failure education, (3) predischarge medication delivery, and (4) predischarge physician follow-up appointment scheduling within 7 days of discharge. A total of 133 patients were evaluated for inclusion in the heart failure cohort. Of those, 52 patients received the evidence-based intervention.

Results:

The evidence-based project was implemented over 7 weeks, September through October of 2023 on the medical telemetry units. Of the 52 patients receiving the evidence-based sample, two of the patients experienced a readmission due to heart failure (3.85%). Incidentally, it was found that patients without a readmission had an average of 2.3 completed interventions, while those with readmissions had an average of 1.5 interventions.

Implications for Case Management Practice:

Case managers are an integral part of the care transition from the acute care setting back to the community. Often, it is the case manager leading this effort through various interventions. Findings from this quality improvement project suggest the use of the evidence-based, four-pronged approach to discharge planning for the heart failure patient population reduced the risk and rate of heart failure-related readmissions for the involved nursing units. These findings also surmise that there is a correlation between the number of interventions and the rate of readmission.
Associations Between Oversedation and Agitation in Postanesthesia Recovery Room and Subsequent Severe Behavioral Emergencies
Authors: Labib Mary , Deljou Atousa , Morgan Robert J. , Schroeder Darrell R. , Sprung Juraj , Weingarten Toby N.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Hospital-based behavioral emergency response teams (BERT) respond to acute behavioral disturbances among hospitalized patients. We aimed to examine associations between altered mental status in postanesthesia care unit (PACU) and behavioral disturbances on surgical wards requiring BERT activation.

Methods

Electronic medical records of patients who underwent general anesthesia and were admitted to the PACU between May 2018–December 2020 were reviewed for episodes of BERT activations on surgical wards. Characteristics of BERT patients were compared with the rest of surgical population during the same period to examine risk factors for BERT.

Results

Of 56,275 adult surgical patients, 133 patients had 178 BERT activations (incidence 2.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.0–2.8 per 1000 admissions), with 21 being for physical assault. The risk for BERT activation was increased with each decade over age of 50 as well as younger age (30 versus 50 y), male sex (odds ratio [OR] = 2.48, 95% CI 1.69, 3.62), longer procedures (OR = 1.08 per 30 minutes, 95% CI 1.05, 1.11), and alterations in mental status in PACU, with both moderate/deep sedation (OR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.04, 2.57) and agitation/combative state (OR = 8.47, 95% CI 5.13, 14.01), P < 0.001 for all comparisons.

Conclusions

Early postoperative agitation and oversedation are associated with BERT activation on surgical wards. Altered mental status in PACU should be conveyed to accepting hospital units so healthcare staff can be vigilant for the potential development of behavioral disturbances.
Impact of Emerging Deep Learning–Based MR Image Reconstruction Algorithms on Abdominal MRI Radiomic Features
Authors: Li Hailong , Alves Vinicius Vieira , Pednekar Amol , Manhard Mary Kate , Greer Joshua , Trout Andrew T. , He Lili , Dillman Jonathan R.
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aims to evaluate, on one MRI vendor's platform, the impact of deep learning (DL)–based reconstruction techniques on MRI radiomic features compared to conventional image reconstruction techniques.

Methods

Under IRB approval and informed consent, we prospectively collected undersampled coronal T2-weighted MR images of the abdomen (1.5 T; Philips Healthcare) from 17 pediatric and adult subjects and reconstructed them using a conventional image reconstruction technique (compressed sensitivity encoding [C-SENSE]) and two DL-based reconstruction techniques (SmartSpeed [Philips Healthcare, US FDA cleared] and SmartSpeed with Super Resolution [SmartSpeed-SuperRes, not US FDA cleared to date]). Eight regions of interest (ROIs) across organs/tissues (liver, spleen, kidney, pancreas, fat, and muscle) were manually placed. Eighty-six MRI radiomic features were then extracted. Pearson's correlation coefficients (PCCs) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated between (A) C-SENSE versus SmartSpeed, and (B) C-SENSE versus SmartSpeed-SuperRes. To quantify the impact from the perspective of the whole MR image, cross-ROI mean PCCs and ICCs were calculated for individual radiomic features. The impact of image reconstruction on individual radiomic features in different organs/tissues was evaluated using ANOVA analyses.

Results

According to cross-ROI mean PCCs, 50 out of 86 radiomic features were highly correlated (PCC, ≥0.8) between SmartSpeed and C-SENSE, whereas only 15 radiomic features were highly correlated between SmartSpeed-SuperRes and C-SENSE reconstructions. According to cross-ROI mean ICCs, 58 out of 86 radiomic features had high agreements (ICC ≥0.75) between SmartSpeed and C-SENSE, whereas only 9 radiomic features had high agreements between SmartSpeed-SuperRes and C-SENSE reconstructions. For SmartSpeed reconstruction, the psoas muscle ROI appeared to be impacted most with the lowest median (IQR) correlation of 0.57 (0.25). The circular liver ROI was impacted most by SmartSpeed-SuperRes (PCC, 0.60 [0.22]). ANOVA analyses suggest that the impact of DL reconstruction algorithms on radiomic features varies significantly among different organs/tissues (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

MRI radiomic features are significantly altered by DL-based reconstruction compared to a conventional reconstruction technique. The impact of DL reconstruction algorithms on radiomic features varies significantly between different organs/tissues.
Outcomes Related to New Persistent Opioid Use After Surgery or Trauma
Authors: Gong Jiayi , Jones Peter , Beyene Kebede , Frampton Chris , Chan Amy Hai Yan
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

To evaluate the impact of persistent opioid use (POU) following surgery or trauma on health outcomes using linked data.

Background:

Surgery and trauma can lead to POU, characterized by continuous opioid consumption following hospital discharge. Outside the United States, there is a lack of population-based studies on POU outcomes in opioid-naive patients following these events.

Methods:

We included opioid-naïve patients who have dispensed opioids after being discharged following admission for surgery or trauma to any New Zealand (NZ) hospital from 2007 to 2019. Differences in outcomes between individuals with and without POU were assessed between 180 and 360 days after discharge. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, the secondary outcomes were all-cause and opioid-related hospitalization, and Days Alive and Out of Hospital (DAOH). Cox and quantile multivariable regression models were used to examine the association between POU and outcomes.

Results:

Overall, 298,928 surgical and 206,663 trauma patients were included in the final analyses, and 17,779 (5.9%) surgical and 17,867 (8.6%) trauma patients developed POU. POU was significantly associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (surgical, aHR=6.59; 95% CI: 5.82–7.46; trauma, aHR=2.77; 95% CI: 2.47–3.11), all-cause hospitalization (surgical, aHR=2.02; 95% CI: 1.95–2.08; trauma, aHR=1.57; 95% CI: 1.52–1.62), opioid-related hospitalization (surgical, aHR=2.49; 95% CI: 2.24–2.76; trauma, aHR=1.89; 95% CI: 1.73–2.05) and reduced DAOH.

Conclusions:

Among opioid-naive patients who received opioids after surgery or trauma, POU was associated with worse outcomes, including increased mortality. Further investigation is warranted to understand the reasons for continued opioid use beyond 90 days and mechanisms associated with harm.
Nest site correlates with nest type and body size in Troglodytidae passerines
Authors: Barros-Leite Abraão , Francisco Mercival R.
Published: August 2024

Nest characteristics are highly variable in the Passeriformes, but the macroevolutionary patterns observable for birds in general are not necessarily valid for specific families, suggesting that both global and within-family studies are needed. Here, we used phylogenetic comparative methods to address the evolutionary patterns of nest type, nest site and habitat in the Troglodytidae, a passerine group with diversified nest and habitat characteristics. The common ancestor of the Troglodytidae likely constructed enclosed nests within sheltered sites (cavity or crevice), but the radiation of the group was characterized by (i) shifts to exposed nest sites (vegetation) with retention of enclosed nests or (ii) retention of sheltered sites with nest simplification (cup nests). Nest site and nest type presented strong phylogenetic conservatism and evolved interdependently, while habitat was poorly correlated with nest evolution. A phylogenetic mixed modelling approach showed that sheltered nest sites were associated with small body size, likely to avoid competition with other animals for these places. With these results, we improve the understanding of nest character evolution in the Troglodytidae and reveal evolutionary aspects not observed so far for passerine birds.
Maternal stress effects across generations in a precocial bird
Authors: Charrier Marion , Lumineau Sophie , George Isabelle , Meurisse Maryse , Georgelin Marion , Palme Rupert , Angelier Frédéric , Coustham Vincent , Nicolle Céline , Bertin Aline , Darmaillacq Anne-Sophie , Dickel Ludovic , Guémené Daniel , Calandreau Ludovic , Houdelier Cécilia
Published: August 2024

Prenatal maternal stress (PMS) is known to shape the phenotype of the first generation offspring (F1) but according to some studies, it could also shape the phenotype of the offspring of the following generations. We previously showed in the Japanese quail that PMS increased the emotional reactivity of F1 offspring in relation to (i) a variation in the levels of some histone post-translational modification (H3K27me3) in their brains and (ii) a modulation of the hormonal composition of the eggs from which they hatched. Here, we wondered whether PMS could also influence the behaviour of the second (F2) and third (F3) generation offspring due to the persistence of the specific marks we identified. Using a principal component analysis, we found that PMS influenced F2 and F3 quail profiles with subtle differences between generations. It increased F2 neophobia, F3 fearfulness and F3 neophobia but only in females. Interestingly, we did not find any variations in the level of histone post-translational modification in F3 brains and we observed inconsistent modulations of androstenedione levels in F1 and F2 eggs. Although they may vary over generations, our results demonstrate that PMS can have phenotypical effects into the third generation.
Preparation of carbon-supported ruthenium spinel oxide catalyst and application thereof in the oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Zheng Junchi , Wang Zhifeng , Shi Qiulan , Jiang Lipeng , Yang Cuiping , Zhang Yuan , Zhao Jianbo
Published: August 2024

Trivalent ruthenium (Ru) can catalyse the oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). However, the structure of Ru itself is unstable and is prone to aggregation and oxidation, leading to a decrease in catalytic activity. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare a stable, reliable, Ru-based catalyst. Based on the catalytic properties of trivalent Ru, a stable spinel structure with zinc ferrite was designed and loaded onto different carbon supports to prepare a homogeneous and stable Ru-based catalyst. The structure and physico-chemical properties were characterized through scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and other techniques, and the catalyst was applied to the oxidation of HMF for the preparation of FDCA. The results show that the prepared magnetic activated carbon-supported Ru-based catalyst has a concentrated particle size distribution in the range of 5–8 nm, with a loading amount of 3.61 at%. It exhibits strong soft magnetism, which is beneficial for Ru loading. Additionally, it can be reused in the oxidation of HMF to prepare FDCA over 10 cycles, with the product yield remaining essentially unchanged. The catalyst prepared in this study is characterized by recyclability and structural stability, making it promising for practical applications.
Challenges in the case-based surveillance of infectious diseases
Authors: Eales Oliver , McCaw James M. , Shearer Freya M.
Published: August 2024

To effectively inform infectious disease control strategies, accurate knowledge of the pathogen’s transmission dynamics is required. Since the timings of infections are rarely known, estimates of the infection incidence, which is crucial for understanding the transmission dynamics, often rely on measurements of other quantities amenable to surveillance. Case-based surveillance, in which infected individuals are identified by a positive test, is the predominant form of surveillance for many pathogens, and was used extensively during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there can be many biases present in case-based surveillance indicators due to, for example test sensitivity, changing testing behaviours and the co-circulation of pathogens with similar symptom profiles. Here, we develop a mathematical description of case-based surveillance of infectious diseases. By considering realistic epidemiological parameters and situations, we demonstrate many of the potential biases in common surveillance indicators based on case-based surveillance data. Crucially, we find that many of these common surveillance indicators (e.g. case numbers, test-positive proportion) are heavily biased by circulating pathogens with similar symptom profiles. Future surveillance strategies could be designed to minimize these sources of bias and uncertainty, providing more accurate estimates of a pathogen’s transmission dynamics and, ultimately, more targeted application of public health measures.
The heat is on: reduced detection of floral scents after heatwaves in bumblebees
Authors: Nooten Sabine S. , Korten Hanno , Schmitt Thomas , Kárpáti Zsolt
Published: August 2024

Global climate change disrupts key ecological processes and biotic interactions. The recent increase in heatwave frequency and severity prompts the evaluation of physiological processes that ensure the maintenance of vital ecosystem services such as pollination. We used experimental heatwaves to determine how high temperatures affect the bumblebees’ ability to detect floral scents. Heatwaves induced strong reductions in antennal responses to floral scents in both tested bumblebee species (
Bombus terrestris
and
Bombus pascuorum
). These reductions were generally stronger in workers than in males. Bumblebees showed no consistent pattern of recovery 24 h after heat events. Our results suggest that the projected increased frequency and severity of heatwaves may jeopardize bumblebee-mediated pollination services by disrupting the chemical communication between plants and pollinators. The reduced chemosensitivity can decrease the bumblebees’ abilities to locate food sources and lead to declines in colonies and populations.
Identification and functional categorization of the most stably and most variably expressed genes and retained introns inArabidopsis thalianaseedlings
Authors: Lin Wen-dar , Kanno Tatsuo , Matzke Antonius J.M , Matzke Marjori
Published: August 2024

We used a large, uniform, RNA-seq dataset to investigate the stability of gene expression and intron retention inArabidopsis thalianaseedlings. Functional classification of the most stably and most variably expressed genes was determined by GO enrichment analyses. Many variably expressed genes encoded proteins involved in photosynthesis and chloroplast structure, likely reflecting their sensitivity to changeable light intensities, and in stress responses, which allow plants to cope with environmental challenges. As revealed by GO enrichment analysis, the most stably expressed genes were involved in protein, lipid and vesicle trafficking, suggesting that fluctuations in expression of these genes are suboptimal for normal seedling development. GO analyses of genes containing either usually retained or usually spliced introns revealed no consistent enrichments for any specific functional categories. However, highly retained introns were often located in the first or last position, which may contain 5’ and 3’ UTRs necessary for transcriptional regulation and mRNA transport and stability. Conversely, usually spliced introns were more frequently located in internal portions of pre-mRNAs, indicating that reliable splicing in coding regions is needed to prevent the formation of premature stop codons. The large RNA-seq dataset we generated can be useful for investigating additional aspects of gene expression and pre-mRNA splicing in Arabidopsis seedlings and sets a precedent for future large scale transcriptome analyses.
Sodium channel inhibitors alter the progress of tangle development in a mouse model of dementia
Authors: Hall Chloe M. , Roberts Martha , Desai Roshni A. , Cummings Damian M. , Bilsland Jamie , Whiting Paul , Smith Kenneth J. , Edwards Frances A
Published: August 2024

Sodium channel inhibitors have been reported to protect against a range of neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Here the effect of chronic administration of two Na+channel inhibitors with different mechanisms of action, phenytoin and GS967 are tested in mouse models of different stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Subtle changes in the distribution of plaque sizes were observed inAppNLGF/NLGFmouse at 3 months of age, after being fed control or drug-supplemented chow from weaning onwards, with phenytoin treatment resulting in a significant increase in the frequency of the smallest plaques and a decrease in large plaques. The later pathology of neurofibrillary tangles was studied, in old age, by supplementing the food of transgenic mice with a P301L mutation in Tau. Chronic administration of Na+inhibitors from 15 months of age resulted in a decrease in the density of MC1-positive neurofibrillary tangles, possibly due to effects on microglial Na+channels. The density of microglial cells was strongly correlated with the density of neurofibrillary tangles but only in mice treated with the Na+inhibitors.
Beneath the scuttle: Patterns of bacterial abundance, diversity and distribution in an insect dark taxon
Authors: Nowak Karol H. , Hartop Emily , Prus-Frankowska Monika , Buczek Mateusz , Kolasa Michał , Roslin Tomas , Ovaskainen Otso T. , Łukasik Piotr
Published: August 2024

Symbiotic microorganisms can have diverse multi-level effects on wild insects: they can dramatically influence host life history traits, affect population structure and dynamics, shape host evolutionary trajectories, and influence multi-species communities. Despite their importance, our u nderstanding of microbiota in natural insect communities remains limited, especially for ‘dark taxa’ - the hyperdiverse, abundant, broadly distributed, yet sev0erely understudied clades that dominate our planet. Here, we resolve patterns in the abundance, diversity, and distribution of microbiota in natural communities of one such dark taxon, the scuttle flies (Diptera: Phoridae). Combining high-throughput amplicon sequencing of host and bacterial marker genes, including bacterial quantification, with joint species distribution modelling, we characterise the microbiome of 1,842 scuttle flies representing ca. 186 species from six sites in Northern Sweden. In particular, we ask how the microbiome is structured by the host species, genotype, and sex of the host individual, as well as by site and season.

We found fly individuals to vary in bacterial abundance by up to five orders of magnitude, with major variation in bacterial community composition. Strains of facultative endosymbiontsWolbachiaandRickettsiashowed high host specificity: both fly COI genotypes andWolbachia16S rRNA and COI genotypes differed considerably in their distribution across genotypes of partners. Joint species distribution modelling revealed that symbiont distribution and abundance were largely explained by host species and genotypes as well as sex. In contrast, 16S rRNA genotypes of most other abundant bacterial genera in the dataset, includingSerratia,Providencia,CarnobacteriumandPseudomonas, were broadly distributed across host species and populations. Models indicated that much of the variation occurred at the level of individuals. Also, facultative endosymbiont infections had no consistent effect on the presence and abundance of other microbes.

This broad survey of microbiota in a non-model insect clade highlights the importance of facultative endosymbionts in shaping microbial community profiles and reveals striking variation among microbial clades in their distributional patterns. It also showcases the potential of integrative sequencing-based approaches in revealing the complexity and ecological significance of symbiotic microorganisms in diverse multi-species natural communities.
Alterations in large-scale resting-state network nodes following transcranial focused ultrasound of deep brain structures
Authors: Gorka Stephanie M. , Jimmy Jagan , Koning Katherine , Phan K. Luan , Rotstein Natalie , Hoang-Dang Bianca , Halavi Sabrina , Spivak Norman , Monti Martin M , Reggente Nicco , Bookheimer Susan Y. , Kuhn Taylor
Published: August 2024

Background

Low-intensity transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) is a brain stimulation approach that holds immense promise for the treatment of brain-based disorders. Several studies in humans have shown that tFUS can successfully modulate perfusion in focal sonication targets including the amygdala; however, limited research has explored how tFUS impacts the function of large-scale neural networks.

Objective

The aim of the current study was to address this gap and examine changes in resting-state connectivity between large-scale network nodes using a randomized, double-blind, within-subject crossover study design.

Methods

Healthy adults (n=18) completed two tFUS sessions, 14 days apart. Each session included tFUS of either the right amygdala or the left entorhinal cortex (ErC). The inclusion of two active targets allowed for within-subjects comparisons as a function of the locus of sonication. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging was collected before and after each tFUS session.

Results

tFUS altered resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) within and between rs-network nodes. Specifically, pre-to-post sonication of the right amygdala modulated connectivity within nodes of the salience network (SAN) and between nodes of the SAN and the default-mode network (DMN) and fronto-parietal network (FRP). A decrease in SAN to FPN connectivity was specific to the amygdala target. Pre-to-post sonication of the left ErC was found to modulate connectivity between the dorsal attention network (DAN) and FPN and DMN. An increase in DAN to DMN connectivity was specific to the ErC target.

Conclusion

These preliminary findings may suggest that tFUS induces neuroplastic changes beyond the immediate sonication target.
On-Demand Seizures Facilitate Rapid Screening of Therapeutics for Epilepsy
Authors: Chen Yuzhang , Litt Brian , Vitale Flavia , Takano Hajime
Published: August 2024

Animal models of epilepsy are critical in drug development and therapeutic testing, but dominant methods for pharmaceutical evaluation face a tradeoff between higher throughput and etiological relevance. For example, in temporal lobe epilepsy, a type of epilepsy where seizures originate from limbic structures like the hippocampus, the main screening models are either based on acutely induced seizures in wild type, naïve animals or spontaneous seizures in chronically epileptic animals. Both types have their disadvantages – the acute convulsant or kindling induced seizures do not account for the myriad neuropathological changes in the diseased, epileptic brains, and spontaneous behavioral seizures are sparse in the chronically epileptic models, making it time-intensive to sufficiently power experiments. In this study, we took a mechanistic approach to precipitate seizures “on demand” in chronically epileptic mice. We briefly synchronized principal cells in the CA1 region of the diseased hippocampus to reliably induce stereotyped on-demand behavioral seizures. These induced seizures resembled naturally occurring spontaneous seizures in the epileptic animals and could be stopped by commonly prescribed anti-seizure medications such as levetiracetam and diazepam. Furthermore, we showed that seizures induced in chronically epileptic animals differed from those in naïve animals, highlighting the importance of evaluating therapeutics in the diseased circuit. Taken together, we envision our model to advance the speed at which both pharmacological and closed loop interventions for temporal lobe epilepsy are evaluated.
Evaluating computational approaches for comparison of protein expression across cancer indications
Authors: Wang Jixin , Tian Xiaowen , Yu Wen , Pullman Ben , Bullen John , Hurt Elaine , Zhong Wenyan
Published: August 2024

Background

The National Cancer Institute’s Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) recently generated harmonized genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and clinical data for over 1,000 tumors across 10 cohorts to facilitate pan-cancer discovery research. However, protein expression comparison across CPTAC cohorts remains challenging due to non-uniform missing data and varying protein expression distribution patterns across tumor types. Here, we present our efforts to evaluate various missing data handling and normalization strategies to create a normalized pan-cancer protein expression dataset.

Results

First, we developed a novel algorithm to select robustly expressed proteins in tumors within any CPTAC cohort. Second, we applied a cohort hybrid imputation approach to protein abundance values from FragPipe within each cohort based on protein expression distribution patterns. Third, we calculated intensity-based absolute quantification using protein abundance values and applied both global and smooth quantile normalization methods. Our results indicate that global quantile normalization ensured identical distribution across cohorts for both tumor and normal tissues, while smooth quantile normalization preserved distribution differences between biological conditions. We assessed our method by comparing differential protein expression analysis results with and without normalization. Additionally, we examined the ranks of protein expression in the normalized CPTAC dataset for selected proteins with high protein-to-RNA expression correlation across CPTAC cohorts. We then compared these protein expression ranks with their RNA expression ranks across corresponding cohorts in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Differential protein expression analysis revealed a high level of agreement in the fold change of tumor versus normal tissue within cohorts before and after normalization. Furthermore, our results indicate that global quantile normalization resulted in the highest cohort rank correlation between CPTAC and TCGA for selected proteins.

Conclusions

In summary, our thorough analysis demonstrates that global quantile normalization surpasses both smooth quantile normalization and no normalization, as evidenced by its higher rank correlation across cancer cohorts between CPTAC and TCGA for selected proteins. The findings suggest that combining cohort hybrid imputation with global quantile normalization is an effective method for creating a normalized CPTAC pan-cancer protein dataset, which can facilitate the study of protein expression across different cancer types.
En routeactivity of Chilean Elaenia, a long-distance migratory bird in South America
Authors: Cueto Victor R. , Gorosito Cristian A. , Brown Geoffrey , Jahn Alex E.
Published: August 2024

The logistics of measuring activities that occur at fine temporal scales, such as short stopovers that last a few hours, has proven very challenging when studying small migratory birds. Here, we deployed multi-loggers equipped with an accelerometer and thermometer on Chilean Elaenia (Elaenia chilensis) to evaluate their activity patterns while they undertook their annual migration from their Patagonian breeding grounds to non-breeding zones in Brazil. Results show that elaenias can fly at altitudes of >1500 masl and migrate nocturnally, providing the first evidence of this behavior in a Neotropical austral migrant. Although most migration flights lasted less than 8 h, one individual flew non-stop for more than 28 h. Overall activity patterns (e.g., flight and stopover duration) were not substantially different between pre- and post-breeding migration. This technology offers a window into the migratory behavior of small birds that migrate within the Neotropics at a finer temporal scale than previously possible.
Haplotype-resolved genome assembly of upland switchgrass provides insights into cold tolerance
Authors: Wu Bingchao , Luo Dan , Yue Yuesen , Yan Haidong , He Min , Ma Xixi , Zhao Bingyu , Xu Bin , Zhu Jie , Wang Jing , Jia Jiyuan , Sun Min , Xie Zheni , Wang Xiaoshan , Huang Linkai
Published: August 2024

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a bioenergy and forage crop. Upland switchgrass exhibits superior cold tolerance than lowland ecotype, but the lack of a reference genome limits the exploration of genetic resources related to cold tolerance. Here, we presented a high-quality haplotype-resolved genome of the upland ecotype 'Jingji31' and conducted multi-omics analysis to understand its cold tolerance. The divergence between upland and lowland ecotypes of switchgrass occurred after the differentiation of the two subgenomes (K and N). Under cold stress, the K subgenome has more differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Transcriptome analysis revealed ecotype-specific differential expressions among members of the cold-responsive (COR) gene families. Specifically, certain members of the AFB1, ATL80, HOS10, and STRS2 gene families exhibited opposite expression changes between the two ecotypes, potentially contributing to their differential cold tolerance. By using haplotype-resolved genome, we identified more cold-induced allele-specific expressions (ASEs) in the upland ecotype, and these ASEs were significantly enriched in the COR gene families. Genome-wide association study detected an association signal on Chr3K related to overwintering rate, which overlapped with a selective sweep region and contained a cytochrome P450 (CYP450) gene highly expressed under cold stress. Heterologous overexpression of CYP450 in rice alleviated leaf wilting and improved cold tolerance. Our study provides a high-quality haplotype-resolved genome of upland switchgrass, to advance conceptual understanding of plant cold tolerance for breeding crops with enhanced cold adaptation.
Dynamics of magnetization growth and relaxation in ferrofluids
Authors: Subbotin Igor M. , Ivanov Alexey O. , Camp Philip J.
Published: August 2024

The dynamics of the growth and relaxation of the magnetization in ferrofluids are determined using theory based on the Fokker-Planck-Brown equation, and Brownian-dynamics simulations. Magnetization growth starting from an equilibrium nonmagnetized state in zero field, and following an instantaneous application of a uniform field of arbitrary strength, is studied with and without interparticle interactions. Similarly, magnetization relaxation is studied starting from an equilibrium magnetized state in a field of arbitrary strength, and following instantaneous removal of the field. In all cases, the dynamics are studied in terms of the time-dependent magnetization m(t). The field strength is described by the Langevin parameter α, the strength of the interparticle interactions is described by the Langevin susceptibility χL, and the individual particles undergo Brownian rotation with time τB. For noninteracting particles, the average growth time decreases with increasing α due to the torque exerted by the field, while the average relaxation time stays constant at τB; with vanishingly weak fields, the timescales coincide. The same basic picture emerges for interacting particles, but the weak-field timescales are larger due to collective particle motions, and the average relaxation time exhibits a weak, nonmonotonic field dependence. A comparison between theoretical and simulation results is excellent for noninteracting particles. For interacting particles with χL=1 and 2, theory and simulations are in qualitative agreement, but there are quantitative deviations, particularly in the weak-field regime, for reasons that are connected with the description of interactions using effective fields.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Analytic evolution for complex coupled tight-binding models: Applications to quantum light manipulation
Authors: Rojas-Rojas Santiago , Muñoz Camila , Barriga Edgar , Solano Pablo , Delgado Aldo , Hermann-Avigliano Carla
Published: August 2024

We present analytic solutions to the evolution in generalized tight-binding models, which consider complex first-neighbor couplings with equal amplitude and arbitrary phases. Our findings provide a powerful tool to efficiently calculate expectation values and correlations within the system, which are otherwise difficult to compute numerically. We apply our results to relevant examples in quantum light manipulation using -port linear couplers, describing the evolution of single (multi)-mode squeezing, single-photon added (subtracted) Gaussian states, and second-order site-to-site photon correlations. Significantly, our analytic results outperform standard numerical calculations. Our study paves the way for a comprehensive mathematical framework describing the spatial evolution of quantum states across a wide range of physical systems governed by the tight-binding model.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Chirotactic response of microswimmers in fluids with odd viscosity
Authors: Hosaka Yuto , Chatzittofi Michalis , Golestanian Ramin , Vilfan Andrej
Published: August 2024

Odd viscosity is a property of chiral active fluids with broken time-reversal and parity symmetries. We show that the flow of such a fluid around a rotating axisymmetric body is exactly solvable and use this solution to determine the orientational dynamics of surface-driven microswimmers. Swimmers with a force-dipole moment exhibit precession around the axis of the odd viscosity. In addition, pushers show bimodal chirotaxis, i.e., alignment parallel or antiparallel to the axis, while pullers orbit in a plane perpendicular to it. A chiral swimmer that itself has a broken parity symmetry can exhibit unimodal chirotaxis and always align in the same direction.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Microwave Control of the Tin-Vacancy Spin Qubit in Diamond with a Superconducting Waveguide
Authors: Karapatzakis Ioannis , Resch Jeremias , Schrodin Marcel , Fuchs Philipp , Kieschnick Michael , Heupel Julia , Kussi Luis , Sürgers Christoph , Popov Cyril , Meijer Jan , Becher Christoph , Wernsdorfer Wolfgang , Hunger David
Published: August 2024

Group-IV color centers in diamond are promising candidates for quantum networks due to their dominant zero-phonon line and symmetry-protected optical transitions that connect to coherent spin levels. The negatively charged tin-vacancy (SnV) center possesses long electron spin lifetimes due to its large spin-orbit splitting. However, the magnetic dipole transitions required for microwave spin control are suppressed, and strain is necessary to enable these transitions. Recent work has shown spin control of strained emitters using microwave lines that suffer from Ohmic losses, restricting coherence through heating. We utilize a superconducting coplanar waveguide to measure SnV centers subjected to strain, observing substantial improvement. A detailed analysis of the SnV center electron spin Hamiltonian based on the angle-dependent splitting of the ground and excited states is performed. We demonstrate coherent spin manipulation and obtain a Hahn echo coherence time of up to T2=430  μs. With dynamical decoupling, we can prolong coherence to T2=10  ms, about a sixfold improvement compared to earlier works. We also observe a nearby coupling C13 spin, which may serve as a quantum memory, thus substantiating the potential of SnV centers in diamond and demonstrates the benefit of superconducting microwave structures.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Concurrent learning-based trajectory tracking control of a novel multi-node flexible lander for asteroid missions
Authors: Chai Jingxuan , Mei Jie , Gong Youmin , Wu Weiren , Ma Guangfu , Zhao Guoming
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Asteroids have the characteristics of noncooperative, irregular gravity and complex terrain on the surface, which cause difficulties in successful landing for conventional landers. The purpose of this paper is to study the trajectory tracking problem of a multi-node flexible lander with unknown flexible coefficient and space disturbance.

Design/methodology/approach

To facilitate the stability analysis, this paper constructs a simplified dynamic model of the multi-node flexible lander. By introducing the nonlinear transformation, a concurrent learning-based adaptive trajectory tracking guidance law is designed to ensure tracking performance, which uses both real-time information and historical data to estimate the parameters without persistent excitation (PE) conditions. A data selection algorithm is developed to enhance the richness of historical data, which can improve the convergence rate of the parameter estimation and the guidance performance.

Findings

Finally, Lyapunov stability theory is used to prove that the unknown parameters can converge to their actual value and, meanwhile, the closed-loop system is stable. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is further verified through simulations.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new design idea for future asteroid landers, and a trajectory tracking controller based on concurrent learning and preset performance is first proposed.
The catalytic effect of organizational learning on ambidexterity for firm performance
Authors: Al-Husban Hammadallah , Yawson Robert M.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the impact of organizational ambidexterity on employee performance within Jordanian clearance companies, focusing on the mediating role of organizational learning. This research aims to explore how the dimensions of exploration and exploitation influence performance outcomes, including effectiveness and growth.

Design/methodology/approach

Using analytical descriptive research, this study uses SMART-PLS 4 for hypothesis testing and mediation analysis. A meticulously developed questionnaire, grounded in scholarly literature and vetted by experts, was distributed to 230 employees across the Jordanian clearance industry, achieving a 91.3% response rate.

Findings

This study found that companies do better when they effectively explore and exploit, especially if they also focus on learning and adapting. This insight is particularly useful for those in the human resource development and management fields who aim to boost employee performance and, ultimately, the success of their organizations. The findings reveal a significant indirect effect of organizational ambidexterity on performance through organizational learning. Ambidexterity explained 55.6% of the variance in organizational learning, and subsequently, organizational learning accounted for 47.4% of performance variance. The total performance variance was 81.8%, indicating a strong relationship between the constructs.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s scope is limited to the Jordanian clearance industry, suggesting the need for further research across different contexts and industries. The reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias, warranting future use of mixed methods for a more comprehensive understanding.

Practical implications

The findings underscore the importance of fostering organizational learning as a mediator between ambidexterity and performance. Companies should invest in strategies that enhance both exploratory and exploitative activities, leveraging organizational learning to improve performance outcomes.

Social implications

By highlighting the role of organizational learning in mediating the relationship between ambidexterity and performance, this research suggests pathways for businesses to contribute to economic growth and employee development within the Jordanian context and potentially beyond.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the field by examining the underexplored context of the Jordanian customs clearance industry and using a robust methodological framework to assess the relationship between organizational ambidexterity, learning and performance. It provides empirical evidence supporting the significant impact of balanced competency configurations on performance outcomes.
Adding to global knowledge by leveraging mindfulness: revisiting the five facet mindfulness questionnaire in IT/ITES industry
Authors: Bharti Teena , Ojha Satish Chandra
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to revisit the properties of 24-item version of mindfulness scale proposed by Bohlmeijer et al. (2011) in an Indian context to add to the existing global knowledge base on mindfulness.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was administered to 531 adult employees working in the IT/ITES sector in India. Their responses were analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and validity statistics to validate the Indian adaptation of the five-facet mindfulness questionnaire (FFMQ).

Findings

The findings confirmed that the Indian version of the 24-item short form of the FFMQ (denoted as FFMQ-SF) matches the findings of Bohlmeijer et al. (2011). It can, therefore, provide valuable insights to both employees and management on the benefits of mindfulness in the workplace.

Research limitations/implications

This paper also presents the limitations of this work along with scholarly and practical implications. It enhances the global understanding of mindfulness, with applications in education, health and well-being, workplaces, social justice, spirituality and personal growth.

Originality/value

This study justifies and presents a unique instrument for assessing employee mindfulness and is beneficial for both management and employees in navigating the evolving hybrid work environment. It promotes present-moment awareness in a non-judgemental manner, facilitating perspective shifts, improved self-regulation and experiential acceptance. Additionally, the study affirms the five-dimensional structure underlying the mindfulness construct.
Does hosting FIFA World Cup attract inward FDI? An empirical investigation using sectoral panel data of 12 countries
Authors: Ait Soussane Jihad , Ibourk Aomar
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The primary objective is to analyze the direct and short-run impact of hosting the FIFA World Cup on inward FDI, considering both aggregate and sectoral levels. Additionally, the study aims to investigate the moderating role of governance quality on this impact, emphasizing the importance of robust institutional frameworks in attracting FDI.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses panel data spanning 1970–2022, encompassing 12 countries that have hosted FIFA World Cup events. The study employs a linear regression model with a robust weighted least squares (RWLS) estimation method. It incorporates various control variables and the institutional quality as moderating variables, to evaluate the impact of hosting the FIFA World Cup on inward FDI at both aggregate and sectoral levels.

Findings

Hosting the FIFA World Cup is associated with a significant average increase of $4.33 bn in inward FDI at the aggregate level. Notably, governance quality serves as a critical moderating factor, with well-governed countries experiencing a more substantial increase in FDI, totaling $10.5 bn. At the sectoral level, the results reveal that poorly governed countries attract FDI in primary sectors, while well-governed countries attract FDI in secondary and tertiary sectors. This highlights the nuanced dynamics of FDI attraction depending on the institutional quality of the host countries.

Research limitations/implications

A primary limitation lies in the scarcity of sectoral-level data, constraining the comprehensive study of the relationship between hosting mega-sport events and FDI. Future research could explore alternative data sources and methodologies to overcome this limitation. Additionally, extending the analysis to include other economic indicators beyond FDI could provide a more holistic understanding of the economic implications of hosting major international sporting events.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by focusing exclusively on the FIFA World Cup and undertaking a comprehensive sectoral analysis. By incorporating governance quality as a moderating variable, it adds a nuanced layer to the understanding of the impact of hosting international events on FDI at the sectoral level. The findings underscore the importance of targeted strategies and robust institutional quality in enhancing FDI attractiveness.