bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Achieving high performance in healthcare institutions: a longitudinal perspective
Authors: de Waal André , Mollema Esther , Willemstein Eunice , Slagter Ineke , Schreurs Marco , Hodes Michel , Boudewijn Peter 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Quality improvement of healthcare institutions has become increasingly important these past decades, mainly due to demographic developments. At the same time the sector is suffering from political and budgetary pressures which makes quality improvement a tall order. As a result, healthcare institutions have been searching for frameworks which can help them in difficult circumstance to improve their quality by increasing their dynamic capabilities and organisational competencies. This research set out to identify such a framework. On the basis of a review of the extant literature the HPO Framework was chosen and subsequently applied at three Dutch nursing home care institutions. In a period of three years the HPO Diagnosis was performed at the three institutions. This yielded information on their status on the way to high performance and attention points which they needed to address to help them further along their journey. Based on an analysis of the transformation process, the experiences and lessons learned from each institution were identified and summarised. All institutions had made progress and achieved better organisational results because of the application of the HPO Framework.
RDHNet: Research on Exposure Based Nighttime Semantic Segmentation
Authors: yang Yang , Liu Changjiang , Hao Li , Liu Chuan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Our proposed RDHNet network model is based on semantic segmentation of nighttime scenes and consists of three modules and a multi-head decoder. The three modules - Histogram, MSRCR(Multi-scale Retinex with color restoration), and N-EX(No exposure) - aim to enhance the robustness of RDHNet for image segmentation under different lighting conditions. The histogram module prevents over optimization of well lit images, while the MSRCR module enhances images with insufficient lighting, improving object recognition and facilitating segmentation. The N-EX module uses a dark channel prior method to remove excess light covering the surface of an object. Extensive experiments have shown that the three modules are suitable for different network models and can be inserted and used at will. They significantly improve the model’s segmentation ability for nighttime images while also having good generalization ability. When added to the multi-head decoder network, MIoU has increased by 6.2% on the nighttime dataset Rebecca and 1.5% on the daytime dataset CamVid.
Experimental and numerical investigation of the effect of aft deformation using wedge and step on the performance and stability of hard chine mono-hull high-speed craft and their optimization using Taguchi statistical method
Authors: Ghadimi Parviz , Sajedi Sayyed Mahdi , Ghadimi Ali 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Speed and stability play crucial roles in the performance of high-speed crafts. In the present paper, a two-stepped model is tested in towing tank and compared with stepless and wedge-mounted models, which have previously been tested by the authors. This study is conducted to compare the stability and performance of the mentioned models in the displacement, semi-planing, and planing regimes. The length and width of these models are 2.64 meters and 0.55 meters, respectively. The measured parameters include trim, rise-up, and resistance. The whisker sprays of the models are also depicted at different speeds. the performance of stepped boats is not suitable prior to the planing regime. But wedged model can perform well in this area. One of the features of this type of model is having a chine. So far, no comparison has been made between the chined models. Further, the whisker spray edge approaches to the keel line by increasing speed in all considered models. These tests are conducted in three series at speeds of 2,4,6 and 8 m/s within the mentioned motion regimes. Based on the experimental findings, it is observed that tested models are stable in displacement and semi-displacement regimes. The bare hull which has no transverse step or wedge, is longitudinally unstable in planning regime. However, the vessels with two transverse steps exhibit longitudinal stability and have less drag than the bare-hull model in all motion regimes. On the other hand, the trim and rise-up in stepped as well as wedged vessel are less than those in the bare-hull model in all motion regimes. Meanwhile, the drag of the two-step model at high speeds is determined to be less than the other two models. Ultimately, using the Taguchi design method, different wedge-mounted and two-stepped vessels are selected to conduct numerical studies. These simulations are done via STAR-CCM + commercial code. The calculated results show that at speeds higher than 8 m/s, the resistance could be reduced by optimizing the step location. As the first step gets farther from the stern, the resistance of the vessel reduces. However, increasing the distance between the second step and the stern leads to a drag penalty for the vessel.
Metagenomic analysis reveals the impact of sampling methods on intestinal microbiota in donkeys and cows
Authors: Su Lei , Guo Jindan , Shi Weixiong , Tong Wei , Li Xue , Yang Bochao , Chen Yubao , Xiang Zhiguang , Qin Chuan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Intestinal microbiota plays a crucial role in the health and diseases. However, very little is known about the impact of sampling methods on assessing intestinal microbiota. In this study, we investigated and compared the influence of sampling methods on the intestinal microbial community composition and function using approximately 300 GB of metagenomic sequencing data from 91 samples representing different digestive tract segment with swab and fecal samples of monogastric (donkeys) and polygastric (cows) animals. We assembled 4,004,115 (cow) and 2,938,653 (donkey) contigs, and got 9,060,744 genes showing the swab sampling revealed a higher abundance of Bacteroidetes, while the fecal sampling showed a relatively higher proportion of Firmicutes. In addition, we observed the significant variations in the microbial composition between different digestive tract segments in both animals. Finally, our study identified several key species and pathways in different of sampling methods and provided evidence that sampling methods can influence their co-abundance relationship, which expands our current knowledge using appropriate sampling methods to accurately characterize the gut microbiota composition and function.
Emergent Magnetic Phases with Robust Two-Dimensional Spin Interactions and Electronic Transport in Above-Room Temperature Ferromagnet Fe3GaTe2
Authors: Zhang Zengming , Rahman Azizur , Rehman Majeed , Mai Di , Muhammad Zahir , ruan keqing , Dai Rucheng , Wang Zhongping , Zhang Lei , CHEN Zheng 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Fe3GaTe2 is a promising ferromagnet for above-room temperature spintronics. Yet, vital magnetic and electrical characteristics remain elusive, including spin interaction, spin universality class, and intrinsic anomalous Hall conductivity. We conducted a combined critical exponent analysis, angleresolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), wide-field nitrogen-vacancy center magnetometry, and DFT calculations. Results show that there exist multiple magnetic phases in Fe3GaTe2: paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition at ∼ 344 K, chiral helimagnetic kink, and spin reorientation transition at ∼ 80 K. Critical exponents (β=0.3706, γ=1.326, and δ=4.72), confirm the coexistence of itinerant and localized spin electrons in Fe3GaTe2, intimately governed by two-dimensional spin interactions resulting from highly anisotropic exchange coupling strengths, remaining robust across thickness, even to few layers. The wide-field nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centre magnetometry technique confirms the existence of room temperature H || c ferromagnetism in the thin sheets (17 nm ) of Fe3GaTe2. The observed high anomalous Hall conductivity is found to be intrinsic, primarily from the Berry curvature. Meanwhile, the DFT band dispersions reveal a partially half-metallic behavior in Fe3GaTe2 and replicate well the ARPES spectrum. Our findings enhance comprehension of 2D spin interactions in 3D Van Der Waal materials and highlight their robustness when thinned to the 2D limit.
Developmental Associations between Cognition and Adaptive Behavior in Intellectual and Developmental Disability
Authors: Dakopolos Andrew , Condy Emma , Smith Elizabeth , Harvey Danielle , Kaat Aaron J , Coleman Jeanine , Riley Karen , Berry-Kravis Elizabeth , Hessl David 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background. Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) are associated with both cognitive challenges and difficulties in conceptual, social, and practical areas of living (DSM–5). Individuals with IDD often present with an intellectual disability in addition to a developmental disability such as autism or Down syndrome. Those with IDD may present with deficits in intellectual functioning as well as adaptive functioning that interfere with independence and living skills. The present study sought to examine associations of longitudinal developmental change in domains of cognition (NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery, NIHTB-CB) and adaptive behavior domains (Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-3; VABS-3) including Socialization, Communication, and Daily Living Skills (DLS) over a two-year period.
Methods. Eligible participants for this multisite longitudinal study included those who were between 6 and 26 years at Visit 1, and who had a diagnosis of, or suspected intellectual disability (ID), including borderline ID. Three groups were recruited, including those with fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, and other/idiopathic intellectual disability. In order to examine the association of developmental change between cognitive and adaptive behavior domains, bivariate latent change score (BLCS) models were fit to compare change in the three cognitive domains measured by the NIHTB-CB (Fluid, Crystallized, Composite) and the three adaptive behavior domains measured by the VABS-3 (Communication, DLS, and Socialization).
Results. Over a two-year period, change in cognition (both Crystalized and Composite) was significantly and positively associated with change in daily living skills. Also, baseline cognition level predicted growth in adaptive behavior, however baseline adaptive behavior did not predict growth in cognition in any model.
Conclusions. The present study demonstrated that developmental improvements in cognition and adaptive behavior are associated in children and young adults with IDD, indicating the potential for cross-domain effects of intervention. Notably, improvements in Daily Living Skills on the VABS-3 emerged as a primary area of adaptive behavior that positively related to improvements in cognition. This work provides evidence for the clinical, “real life” meaningfulness of the NIHTB-CB in IDD, and important empirical support for the NIHTB-CB as a fit-for-purpose performance-based outcome measure for this population.
Patterns of decomposition and functional traits for flower and leaf litter in woody species
Authors: de Alencar Mery Ingrid Guimarães , Dias André T.C. , Asato Ana Elizabeth Bonato , Caliman Adriano 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Plant trait variation drives plant resource economic strategies, referred to plant economic spectrum (PES). The variation within and across species have afterlife effects on carbon and nutrient cycling through the alteration of litter decomposability. However, PES focus on leaves may not reflect a whole-plant economic spectrum of strategies. Here, we assessed the patterns and predictors of flower and leaf litter decomposition at the intra- (i.e. flowers and leaves of the same species) and inter-specific (i.e. flowers and leaves from different species) levels for 29 species evaluating nine litter traits. Our results indicate flower litter as a labile organic matter due its higher decomposition rate, leaching, water-holding capacity, N, P, and K concentrations. Leaf litter had higher density, Ca, Mg, and Na concentration. The average relative differences for decomposition rate and functional traits between flower and leaf litter did not differ at both intra- and inter-specific levels. The predictors of decomposition were similar, with leaching, P, Ca, Mg, and Na predicting both flower and leaf litter decomposition. While water-holding capacity predicted only flower litter, and density, N, and K predicted leaf litter. The observed differences for decomposition rate and functional traits between flower and leaf litter indicate that the afterlife effects differ among these plant organs and leverage the role of flower litter and its secondary consequences to nutrient and carbon cycling on ecosystems.
The effect of hydroxychloroquine on activities of daily living and hand function in systemic sclerosis: results from an analysis of the EUSTAR cohort
Authors: Bellando-Randone Silvia , Wilhalme Holly , Bruni Cosimo , Czirjak Laszlo , Distler Oliver , Allanore Yannick , Cuomo Giovanna , Denton Christopher , Galdo Francesco Del , Gheorghiu Ana M. , RICCIERI VALERIA , Walker Ulrich , Truchet Marie Elise , Vonk Madelon C. , Foeldvari Ivan , Cerinic Marco Matucci , Furst Daniel E. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background: To evaluate the use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and its impact on Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index(HAQ-DI), the Cochin Hand Function Status(CHFS) in a large SSc cohort.Methods:SSc patients from the European Scleroderma Trials and Research (EUSTAR) database treated with HCQ for at least 6 months were evaluated and compared to a propensity matched group of SSc patients not using HCQ. Demographic and clinical data, concomitant drugs, HAQ-DI and CHFS (at least 2 evaluations) were recorded and were the outcome variables of interest. Statistical analysis was performed using propensity score matching for age, gender, disease duration, corticosteroids, immunosuppressives, vasoactive drugs in a 3:1 control:HCQ ratio. Standard descriptive statistics and Student’s T-test and Chi-square test were used to assess the propensity-matched groups.ResultsOut of 17,805 SSc patients evaluated, 468 (2.6%) constituted the HCQ group. Among them, 50 (10.7%) had at least a baseline and follow-up HAQ-DI evaluation and 44 (9.4%) had at least a baseline and follow-up CHFS evaluation. Propensity matching assured that patients were matched for female gender (HCQ vs control 92.0% vs. 85.3%), mean age (49.8 vs. 50.0 years) disease duration (8.3 vs. 9.1 years), limited disease (55.3 vs. 62.6%) as well as background medications (all P>0.1. We did not find any significant differences among the two groups in change of HAQ-DI CHFS, over 365 days (all P>0.05)Conclusions:Results from the EUSTAR registry showed that HCQ was used by 2.6% of SSc patients. HCQ use did not improve the HAQ-DI, or CHFS, comparing HCQ users to non-HCQ users
Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Correlates of Social and Emotional Support during the COVID-19 Pandemic among U.S. Adults
Authors: Labossiere Stephane , Clevanne Julce 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background Studies examining racial/ethnic differences in social and emotional support during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States are limited. We examined racial/ethnic differences in the lack of social and emotional support during the pandemic in a large nationally representative sample of U.S. adults.Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the 2020 National Health Interview Surveys (NHIS) of all adults who reported having social and emotional support needs during the pandemic (n = 16,637). We grouped the extent of social and emotional support received into three categories: always/usually, sometimes, and rarely/never. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine racial/ethnic differences in the lack of social and emotional support among adults 18 years and older.Results Approximately 8% of Non-Hispanic Whites, 12% of Non-Hispanic Blacks, 17% of Hispanics, and 17% of Non-Hispanic Asians reported that they rarely/never received social and emotional support during the pandemic. After controlling for several potentially confounding factors, Non-Hispanic Asians [adjusted odds ratio aOR: 2.93; 95% confidence interval CI: 2.27–3.77] and Non-Hispanic Blacks [aOR: 1.46; 95% (CI) 1.14–1.87] were significantly more likely than Non-Hispanic Whites to report rarely/never vs. always/usually receiving social and emotional support during the period under study.Conclusion Improving awareness of social and emotional support by including measures of social isolation and loneliness in national health surveys is needed. Addressing social and emotional barriers nationally needs to be a coordinated effort from the public, research community, and policymakers with the objective of advancing health equity.
Transcriptome analyses of dark-induced bleaching octocorals and improvement in octocoral RNA extraction
Authors: Wong Jing-Wen Michelle , Liu An-Chi , Lin Hsuan-Tung , Shinzato Chuya , Yang Sung-Yin , Yang Shan-Hua 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Octocorals, vital components of reef ecosystems, inhabit a wide range of marine environments across various climate zones, spanning from tropical shallows to frigid deep-sea regions. Certain octocoral species, notably Lobophytum and Sinularia, are particularly intriguing due to their production of diverse metabolites, warranting continuous investigation. Octocorals harboring symbiotic algae are prone to bleaching when subjected to stressors like elevated temperatures and intense sunlight. Interestingly, octocorals with greater tolerance to water turbidity may experience reduced light exposure, which can disrupt photosynthesis and result in bleaching. However, in comparison to stony coral (scleractinian), our knowledge of octocorals' physiological resilience under various stressors remains limited, and the genetic expression of octocorals has been relatively understudied. To address these gaps, our study focuses on comparing the transcriptomes of healthy octocorals and those induced to bleach by darkness, specifically focusing on Lobophytum hsiehi. Additionally, considering the challenges posed by the high fluid content and rich bioactive compounds within octocorals, we have devised a universal protocol for RNA extraction from six different octocoral genera. We believe that the findings of this study, along with the developed RNA extraction method, will serve as valuable references for future research, particularly in the realm of octocorals.
Mice with deficiency in Pcdh15, a gene associated with bipolar disorders, exhibit significantly elevated diurnal amplitudes of locomotion and body temperature
Authors: Mori Daisuke , Inami Chihiro , Ikeda Ryosuke , Sawahata Masahito , Urata Shinji , Yamaguchi Sho , Kobayashi Yohei , Fujita Kosuke , Arioka Yuko , Okumura Hiroki , Kushima Itaru , Kodama Akiko , Suzuki Toshiaki , Hirao Takashi , Yoshimi Akira , Sobue Akira , Ito Takahiro , Noda Yukihiro , Mizoguchi Hiroyuki , Nagai Taku , Kaibuchi Kozo , Okabe Shigeo , Nishiguchi Koji , Kume Kazuhiko , Yamada Kiyofumi , Ozaki Norio 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Genetic factors significantly influence the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. However, the specific pathogenic mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully elucidated. Recent extensive genomic studies implicate the protocadherin related 15 (PCDH15) gene in the onset of psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder (BD). To further investigate the pathogenesis of these psychiatric disorders, we developed a mouse model lacking Pcdh15. Notably, although PCDH15 is primarily identified as the causative gene for Usher syndrome, which leads to visual and auditory impairments, our Pcdh15 homozygous deletion mice (Pcdh15-null) did not show observable structural abnormalities in either the retina or inner ear. However, the Pcdh15 heterozygous deletion mice (Pcdh15-het) exhibited enhanced spontaneous locomotor activity, reduced prepulse inhibition, and diminished cliff avoidance behavior. These observations aligned with symptoms observed in various psychiatric patients and certain psychiatric disease mouse models. Specifically, the hyperactivity may mirror manic episodes in BD. To achieve a more physiological, long-term quantification of the hyperactive phenotype, we implanted nano tag® sensor chips in the animals, enabling continuous monitoring of both activity and body temperature. During the light-off period, Pcdh15-null exhibited elevated activity and body temperature compared with those of wild-type mice (WT). However, we observed a decreased body temperature during the light-on period. Comprehensive brain activity was visualized using c-Fos mapping, assessed during the activity and temperature peak and trough. There was a stark contrast between the distribution of c-Fos expression in Pcdh15-null and WT brains during both the light-on and light-off periods. These results provide valuable insights into the neural basis of the behavioral and thermal characteristics of Pcdh15-deletion mice. Therefore, Pcdh15-deletion mice can be a novel model for BD with mania and other psychiatric disorders, with a strong genetic component that satisfies both construct and surface validity.
A barley pan-transcriptome reveals layers of genotype-dependent transcriptional complexity
Authors: Waugh Robbie , Guo Wenbin , Schreiber Miriam , Marosi Vanda , Bagnaresi Paolo , Chalmers Kenneth , Chapman Brett , Dang Viet , Dockter Christoph , Fiebig Anne , Fricano Agostino , Fuller John , Haaning Allison , Haberer Georg , Himmelbach Axel , Jayakodi Murukarthick , Jia Yong , Jørgensen Morten , Kamal Nadia , Langridge Peter , Li Chengdao , Lu Qiongxian , Lux Thomas , Mascher Martin , Mayer Klaus , McCallum Nicola , Milne Linda , Muehlbauer Gary , Padmarasu Sudharsan , Pedas Pai , Pillen Klaus , Pozniak Curtis , Sato Kazuhiro , Schmutzer Thomas , Scholz Uwe , Schüler Danuta , Simkova Hana , Skadhauge Birgitte , Stein Nils , Wang Penghao , Wonneberger Ronja , Zhang Xiao-Qi , Zhang Guoping , Cattivelli Luigi , Spannagl Manuel , Bayer Micha , Simpson Craig , Zhang Runxuan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

A pan-transcriptome describes the transcriptional and post-transcriptional consequences of genome diversity from multiple individuals within a species, revealing an assortment of functions that drive biological outcomes. We developed a barley pan-transcriptome using twenty inbred genotypes representing domesticated* barley diversity by generating and analysing extensive short- and long-read RNA sequencing datasets from multiple tissues. To overcome single reference bias and facilitate downstream analyses we constructed genotype-specific reference transcript datasets (RTDs) and integrated these into a linear pan-genome framework to create a single pan-RTD. Categorising transcripts based upon presence or absence across genotypes defined them as core (expressed in all), shell (absent in one or more) or cloud (expressed in only one). Focusing on the core we observed significant transcript abundance variation among tissues and between genotypes. We show that drivers of transcript abundance variation in this category include RNA processing, gene copy number, large structural rearrangements and degree of conservation of promotor motifs. We reveal conserved patterns of co-expression module-tissue correlations encompassing distinct biological functions, as well as frequent functional diversification. We complement the pan-transcriptome by integrating extensive and diverse replicated public RNA-seq datasets from the reference cultivar (cv.) Morex into a comprehensive gene-expression atlas