bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying hotspots of woody plant diversity and their relevance with home ranges of the critically endangered gibbon (Nomascus hainanus) across forest landscapes within a tropical nature reserve
Authors: Li Xinran , Zhang Zhidong , Long Wenxing , Zang Runguo 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionTo achieve effective conservation objectives, it is crucial to map biodiversity patterns and hotspots while considering multiple influencing factors. However, focusing solely on biodiversity hotspots is inadequate for species conservation on a landscape scale. This emphasizes the importance of integrating hotspots with the home ranges of species to identify priority conservation areas.MethodsCompiling the vegetation data with environmental and anthropogenic disturbance data collected from kilometer-grid plots in Bawangling Nature Reserve, Hainan, China, we analyzed the spatial distribution of plant diversity (species richness and Shannon-Wiener index), as well as the main drivers affecting these patterns. We also investigated the spatial distribution of hotspots using a threshold approach and compared them with the home ranges of the flagship species, Hainan gibbon (Nomascus hainanus).ResultClimate and soil are predominant drivers shaping the spatial pattern of plant diversity in Bawangling Nature Reserve, surpassing the influence of anthropogenic disturbance and topographic factors. Both diversity indices exhibit a generally similar pattern with exceptions in surrounding areas of Futouling and Elongling. The hotspots identified by the Shannon-Wiener index showed a higher spatial overlap with the home ranges of Hainan gibbon compared to the species richness hotspots. The recently established Hainan gibbon Group E in 2019, located 8 km away from the original Futouling habitat, does not coincide with identified hotspots.DiscussionOur findings indicate that the hotspots of plant diversity within the habitat of Hainan gibbon Group E are relatively limited, emphasizing the necessity of giving precedence to its conservation. Integrating hotspots with the home ranges of critically endangered species offers decision-makers valuable information to establish rational conservation networks in the context of changing environments, as well as a reference for habitat restoration of species.
The impact of a speaker’s voice quality on auditory perception and cognition: a behavioral and subjective approach
Authors: Schiller Isabel S. , Aspöck Lukas , Schlittmeier Sabine J. 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionOur voice is key for conveying information and knowledge to others during verbal communication. However, those who heavily depend on their voice, such as teachers and university professors, often develop voice problems, signaled by hoarseness. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hoarseness on listeners’ memory for auditory-verbal information, listening effort, and listening impression.MethodsForty-eight normally hearing adults performed two memory tasks that were auditorily presented in varied voice quality (typical vs. hoarse). The tasks were Heard Text Recall, as part of a dual-task paradigm, and auditory Verbal Serial Recall (aVSR). Participants also completed a listening impression questionnaire for both voice qualities. Behavioral measures of memory for auditory-verbal information and listening effort were performance and response time. Subjective measures of listening effort and other aspects of listening impression were questionnaire rating scores.ResultsResults showed that, except for the aVSR, behavioral outcomes did not vary with the speaker’s voice quality. Regarding the aVSR, we found a significant interaction between voice quality and trial, indicating that participants’ recall performance dropped in the beginning of the task in the hoarse-voice condition but not in the typical-voice condition, and then increased again toward the end. Results from the listening impression questionnaire showed that listening to the hoarse voice resulted in significantly increased perceived listening effort, greater annoyance and poorer self-reported performance.DiscussionThese findings suggest that hoarseness can, at least subjectively, compromise effective listening. Vocal health may be particularly important in the educational context, where listening and learning are closely linked.
Body image disturbance, interoceptive sensibility and the body schema across female adulthood: a pre-registered study
Authors: Naraindas Akansha M. , Cooney Sarah M. 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionBody image disturbance (BID) typically involves explicit negative attitudes toward one’s shape and weight and is associated with altered interoceptive sensibility (the subjective perception of internal bodily states). This association is a known risk factor for the development and maintenance of eating disorders. However, while research has centred on younger women with eating disorders, diverse facets of BID appear in women without eating disorders across adulthood. Research shows that in the general population, young women (ages 18–25) with high BID exhibit disturbances in the body schema: an implicit sensorimotor representation of the body in space which includes mental simulation of a movement such as motor imagery. Given that body image is subject to age-related influences, it is important to investigate how age-related variation in BID can influence the body schema beyond young adulthood alone. Here, we examine the relationship between BID, interoceptive sensibility and the body schema across female adulthood.MethodsCross-sectional data was collected online from 1,214 women across four age groups: Young adults (18–24), Adults (25–39), Middle-aged adults (40–59), and Older aged adults (60–75). BID was indexed by questionnaires measuring body objectification, state, and trait body dissatisfaction. Interoceptive sensibility (IS) was measured using the MAIA-2 questionnaire. The body schema was evaluated through the Own Body Transformation task: a mental rotation task which assesses the capacity to make an embodied mental transformation.ResultsAnalyses revealed that while body objectification and trait body dissatisfaction decreased from young to older adulthood, state body dissatisfaction showed a marked increase. A negative relationship between IS and BID across all age groups was also evidenced. Finally, age, BID and orientation of the presented body were significant predictors of the time taken to make an embodied transformation.DiscussionThese findings highlight the consistent relationship of BID and IS across age groups beyond young adulthood and demonstrate the varying importance of different aspects of BID as individuals age. We also evidence for the first time that disruptions in body image have the potential to impact implicit sensorimotor representations of the body even in women without eating disorders across female adulthood.
Validity of an online, self-administered Timeline Followback for alcohol use with adolescents
Authors: Hareskov Jensen Natascha , Vallentin-Holbech Lotte , Dash Genevieve F. , Feldstein Ewing Sarah W. , Rømer Thomsen Kristine 
Published: December 2023

ObjectiveThe Timeline Followback (TLFB) is a widely used and well-validated interview-based tool for assessing patterns of recent health risk behavior. There is some evidence of the validity of the TLFB as a self-administered online tool for assessing alcohol use, but further research is needed to establish its validity in younger populations and populations outside the United States. Further, it is unknown how self-administered online TLFB formats compare to more timesaving and commonly used single-item alcohol questions. The primary aim of the current study was to validate a new online, self-administered TLFB for alcohol use against the TLFB interview in a sample of European (Danish) adolescents aged 16–18 years (N = 30).MethodsParticipants completed a TLFB telephone interview, a self-administered online version of the TLFB, and single-item alcohol questions. Assessments were administered using a within-subject, counter-balanced design. Estimates of number of drinking days, binge-drinking days, maximum drinks consumed on one occasion, total drinks, and drinks per drinking day were compared across metrics.ResultsAll correlations between the drinking outcomes assessed via the TLFB interview and the TLFB online were positive, and statistically significant (rss = 0.86–0.94, p &lt; 0.01). Wilcoxon signed-rank tests showed no significant differences between the TLFB interview and the TLFB online on drinking days, binge drinking days, max drinks, and total drinks. Participants reported drinking significantly more drinks per drinking day on the TLFB online (M = 4.66) compared to on the TLFB interview (M = 4.12; p = 0.009).ConclusionOverall, the results support the validity of the online, self-administered TLFB in a sample of European (Danish) adolescents.
Evolving trends among Pseudomonas aeruginosa: a 12-year retrospective study from the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Thomsen Jens , Menezes Godfred A. , Abdulrazzaq Najiba M. ,   The UAE AMR Surveillance Consortium, Moubareck Carole Ayoub , Senok Abiola , Everett Dean B. 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionPseudomonas is a group of ubiquitous non-fermenting Gram-negative bacteria (NFGNB). Of the several species associated with humans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) can acclimate to diverse environments. The global frequency of PA infections is rising and is complicated by this organism's high intrinsic and acquired resistance to several clinically relevant antibiotics. Data on the epidemiology, levels, and trends of antimicrobial resistance of PA in clinical settings in the MENA/GCC region is scarce.MethodsA retrospective 12-year analysis of 56,618 non-duplicate diagnostic Pseudomonas spp. from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was conducted. Data was generated at 317 surveillance sites by routine patient care during 2010–2021, collected by trained personnel and reported by participating surveillance sites to the UAE National antimicrobial resistance (AMR) Surveillance program. Data analysis was conducted with WHONET (https://whonet.org/).ResultsAmong the total isolates (N = 56,618), the majority were PA (95.6%). Data on nationality revealed 44.1% were UAE nationals. Most isolates were from soft tissue (55.7%), followed by respiratory tract (26.7%). PA was more commonly found among inpatients than among outpatients, followed by ICUs. PA showed a horizontal trend for resistance to fluoroquinolones, 3rd- and 4th-generation cephalosporins, and decreasing trends of resistance for aminoglycosides and meropenem. The highest percentage of multidrug resistant (MDR) isolates was reported in 2011 at 35.6%. As an overall trend, the percentage of MDR, extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and possible pandrug-resistant (PDR) isolates generally declined over the study period. Carbapenem-resistant PA (CRPA) were associated with a higher mortality (RR: 2.7), increased admission to ICU (RR: 2.3), and increased length of stay (LOS) (12 excess inpatient days per case), as compared to carbapenem-susceptible PA (CSPA).ConclusionThe resistance trends in Pseudomonas species in the UAE indicated a decline in AMR and in percentages of Pseudomonas isolates with MDR and XDR profiles. The sustained Pseudomonas spp. circulation particularly in the hospital settings highlights the importance of surveillance techniques, infection control strategies, and stewardship to limit the continued dissemination. This data also shows that CRPA are associated with higher mortality, increased ICU admission rates, and a longer hospitalization, thus higher costs due to increased number of in-hospital and ICU days.
The impact of centralized coronary stent procurement program on acute myocardial infarction treatments: evidence from China
Authors: Jian Weiyan , Zhou Wuping , Zhang Lanyue 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundThe advent of coronary stents has resulted in many more many lives being saved from acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, the high price associated with this method of treatment also imposes a heavy economic burden on healthcare systems. As a country making significant use of coronary stents, in 2021, China introduced a program around this method of treatment grounded in centralized procurement and it is the focus of this paper to assess the impact of this policy on AMI treatments.MethodsThe patients with AMI are selected as the study group, and the patients with pre-cerebral vascular stenosis are selected as the control group, and individual-level medical insurance settlement data are collected from the years 2018, 2019, and 2021. Differences-in-differences methodology is used to analyze the impacts of this program on the probability changes in respect of AMI patients receiving stent therapy, as well as changes relating to cost, length of stay and 30-day readmission.ResultsThe results show that the reform has led to a reduction in the probability of AMI patients using stents to 51% of the original rate. Additionally, the average cost is shown to have decreased by 41%, and no significant changes can be found in respect of the length of stay and 30-day readmission.ConclusionIn sum, the centralized procurement program is shown to reduce not only the medical expenses incurred by treating patients with AMI, but also the use of coronary stents, resulting in changes to the treatment patterns of patients with AMI.
Quality of life, exercise capacity, cognition, and mental health of Chilean patients after COVID-19: an experience of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program at a physical and rehabilitation medicine unit
Authors: Paéz Valeria , Rodriguez-Fernandez Maria , Morales Diego , Torres Camillo , Ardiles Andrés , Soza Sergio , Bustos Cynthia , Manríquez Fernanda , García Cesar , Rocco Rossana , Lang Morin 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundPost-COVID disabilities, encompassing physical, cognitive, and psychological aspects, constitute the primary health sequelae for survivors. While the rehabilitation needs post COVID-19 are now well understood, each country possesses unique characteristics in terms of populations, healthcare systems, social dynamics, and economic profiles, necessitating context-specific recommendations. This study aims to address two main objectives: (1) analyze the impact of an 8-week multidisciplinary rehabilitation program on the quality of life, functional capacity, cognition, and mental health adaptations in adults recovering from COVID-19 in northern Chile, and (2) propose a personalized model for predicting program dropouts and responses.MethodsA total of 44 subjects were enrolled, forming two groups during the study: a treatment group (n = 32) and a dropout group (n = 12). The treatment group participated in the 8-week multidisciplinary rehabilitation program.ResultsThe results indicate that (1) After 8 weeks, the quality of life of the patients in the treatment group exhibited significant improvements reflected in all aspects of the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF36, p &lt; 0.005) and the total score (p &lt; 0.001), with a concurrent decrease in dysfunctionality (p &lt; 0.001). (2) Significant improvements were also observed in various physical performance tests, including the: 6-minute walk test, 1-min sit-to-stand, dynamometry, Tinetti balance, and Berg score (p &lt; 0.001). Moreover, physical therapy led to a reduction in neuropathic symptoms and pain, psychological therapy reduced anxiety and depression, and language therapy enhanced memory and speech (all p &lt; 0.05). (3) Demographic and clinical history characteristics did not predict responses to rehabilitation. (4) A regression model for predicting changes in SF-36 total score, based on physical function, physical role, general health, and mental health, was established based on the data from study (p &lt; 0.01, adjusted R2 = 0.893). (5) Classification models for predicting dropouts achieved 68% accuracy, with key predictors of treatment adherence including diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, Tinetti balance, physical role, and vitality of SF36, and performance on the 6-minute walk test and 1-minute sit-to-stand.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates significant enhancements in quality of life, improved functional performance, and reductions in mental and cognitive burdens within an 8-week rehabilitation program. Additionally, it is possible to identify patients at risk of dropping out using cost-effective, outpatient, and clinically applicable tests.
Prognostic factors of poor postoperative outcomes in gastrectomies
Authors: Stüben B. O. , Plitzko G. A. , Stern L. , Li J. , Neuhaus J. P. , Treckmann J. W. , Schmeding R. , Saner F. H. , Hoyer D. P. 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundGastric cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and is the third most common cause of cancer related death. Improving postoperative results by understanding risk factors which impact outcomes is important. The current study aimed to compare immediate perioperative outcomes following gastrectomy.Methods302 patients following gastric resections over a 10-year period (January 2009–January 2020) were identified in a database and retrospectively analysed. Epidemiological as well as perioperative data was analysed, and a univariate and multivariate analysis performed to identify risk factors for in-hospital mortality.ResultsIn general, gastrectomies were mainly performed electively (total vs. subtotal 95% vs. 85%, p = 0.004). Patients having subtotal gastrectomy needed significantly more PRBC transfusions compared to total gastrectomy (p = 0.039). Most emergency surgeries were performed for benign diseases, such as ulcer perforations or bleeding and gastric ischaemia. Only emergency surgery was significantly associated with poorer overall survival (HR 2.68, 95% CI 1.32–5.05, p = 0.003).ConclusionIn-hospital mortality was comparable between total and subtotal gastrectomies. Only emergency interventions increased postoperative fatality risk.
Manejo Clínico da Insuficiência Cardíaca: Abordagens Farmacológicas e Estratégias de Monitoramento
Authors: Andrade Trajano dos Santos Maria Eduarda , Sousa Ribeiro Bruna Emanuely , Parrião Lustosa Higor César , Lima Queiroz João Marcelo , Oliveira dos Santos Prado Letícia 
Published: December 2023

A abordagem clínica da Insuficiência Cardíaca (IC) apresenta desafios significativos para os profissionais de saúde, particularmente no que diz respeito ao manejo de pacientes adultos. No contexto do diagnóstico, são examinadas as complexidades associadas à identificação precoce da IC nessa população, enfatizando a importância de avaliações abrangentes e pontuais. O processo diagnóstico envolve procedimentos intricados, como exames laboratoriais específicos e avaliações clínicas especializadas, levando em consideração as particularidades da fisiologia adulta. A detecção precoce continua a ser um elemento crucial, dada a potencial progressão rápida da condição nesta faixa etária.
Ao lado do tratamento farmacológico, um aspecto crucial abordado neste artigo é a implementação de estratégias de monitoramento. Exploram-se diversas modalidades, incluindo biomarcadores cardíacos, exames avançados de imagem cardíaca e o uso de dispositivos de monitoramento remoto. O papel central dessas ferramentas reside na capacidade de detectar precocemente mudanças no estado clínico do paciente, fornecendo dados relevantes para ajustes oportunos nos planos terapêuticos. Este enfoque holístico na gestão da IC visa, assim, otimizar os resultados clínicos e melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes.
A complexidade inerente ao manejo clínico da IC é ressaltada, exigindo uma abordagem integrada que vá além da simples prescrição de medicamentos. O entendimento aprofundado das nuances farmacológicas e a implementação de estratégias de monitoramento adequadas convergem para uma gestão mais eficaz dessa condição cardíaca progressiva. O presente estudo busca, portanto, contribuir para essa compreensão integral, oferecendo insights práticos e atualizados sobre as melhores práticas no manejo da IC, com ênfase nas vertentes farmacológicas e de monitoramento.
Cirurgia de Câncer de Cólon: Abordagens Cirúrgicas e Desfechos
Authors: Souza Santos Gisele , Maia Teixeira de Sousa Mariana , Torres Neto Marcio Antonio , Uchôa de Miranda Santos Thaís , Campolina Stehling Erica 
Published: December 2023

A cirurgia desempenha um papel crucial no tratamento do câncer de cólon, sendo uma intervenção primária na busca pela remoção eficaz do tumor. É importante explorar as diversas abordagens cirúrgicas disponíveis para o tratamento do câncer de cólon, destacando suas vantagens e desafios. Ao abordar as diferentes técnicas cirúrgicas, pretende-se proporcionar uma visão abrangente das opções disponíveis aos cirurgiões, considerando aspectos como invasividade, recuperação pós-operatória e eficácia a longo prazo.
A escolha da abordagem cirúrgica no câncer de cólon é uma decisão complexa, envolvendo a consideração de vários fatores, como a localização do tumor, o estágio da doença e a condição geral do paciente. Nesse contexto, as abordagens laparoscópicas e tradicionais serão avaliadas, além de suas indicações específicas, comparando os resultados de desfechos clínicos. Compreender as nuances de cada técnica é essencial para otimizar a terapia cirúrgica e melhorar os prognósticos dos pacientes acometidos por essa neoplasia.
Além disso, a avaliação os desfechos associados à cirurgia de câncer de cólon, examinando aspectos como taxas de sobrevida, recorrência e qualidade de vida pós-operatória é de extrema importância para tomadas de decisão. A análise crítica desses desfechos permitirá uma avaliação mais aprofundada das implicações de cada abordagem cirúrgica, contribuindo para a tomada de decisões informadas por parte dos profissionais de saúde. Dessa forma, busca-se fornecer uma base sólida de conhecimento que possa orientar a prática clínica e aprimorar os resultados terapêuticos para os pacientes com câncer de cólon submetidos à intervenção cirúrgica.
Em última análise, este artigo aspira a consolidar informações atualizadas sobre as abordagens cirúrgicas no contexto do câncer de cólon, apresentando uma revisão crítica da literatura científica disponível. Ao fazer isso, espera-se contribuir para o desenvolvimento contínuo da prática cirúrgica oncológica, promovendo a eficácia dos procedimentos e aprimorando a qualidade de vida dos pacientes enfrentando essa condição desafiadora.