bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lithium solvent extraction from weak alkaline brine by 2‐hydroxy‐5‐nitro‐4‐alkoxy‐benzophenone and TRPO
Authors: Zhou Guimei , Yan Wenjun , Yan Shufan , Gao Dandan , Zeng Debin , Li Dongdong , Zeng Dewen 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSolvent extraction of lithium by β‐diketones from alkaline brine has been known to be an efficient process. However, its relatively high working pH, consequently the high alkaline consumption and substantial dissolution loss in raffinate, limit its industrial application. Herein, a novel lithium extractant, i.e., 2‐hydroxy‐5‐nitro‐4‐n‐octoxy‐benzophenone (referred to as N531), was proposed, which can extract lithium at relatively lower pH with remarkable low alkaline consumption and dissolution loss. Exactly, the pH corresponding to half lithium extraction is 8.5, and the Li/Na separation factor is ~500. The extractant concentration in the raffinate varied from 0.8 to 9.3 mg L−1, depending on the pH and salinity. An application case was given to extract lithium from the raw brine of Zabuye salt lake, indicating that N531 is a commercially prospective extractant to extract lithium from alkaline brine.
Ecological dynamics in Banksia aemula woodlands following widespread, anthropogenic wildfires on a world heritage listed island (K'gari), Australia
Authors: Brunton Elizabeth , Anderson George , Applegate Grahame , Behrendorff Linda , Brunton Aaron , Killer Rachel , Lamont Robert , Orchard Sarah , Conroy Gabriel 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe increased severity and frequency of wildfires are a growing threat to biodiversity globally posing a complex challenge for the management of protected areas. K'gari, a World Heritage‐listed sand barrier island located off the coast of Australia, was extensively burnt in wildfires in 2019 and 2020. Banksia aemula low open woodland (BALOW) is a fire‐adapted ecosystem, and Banksia aemula is the dominant vegetation type on the island. This research explored interactions between vertebrate fauna and flora species richness and structure after fires in the BALOW habitat. We employed camera trapping and vegetation surveys to estimate species richness and habitat structure. We detected 28 fauna and 56 plant species, including two vulnerable species. Fauna species richness differed between sites; the site with the most intense, extensive, and recent fire had the lowest fauna species richness and mammal species richness. In contrast, the site with lower intensity and more frequent historical fires had the highest fauna diversity. The long unburnt site had higher overall tree diversity and reduced shrub diversity. This research further highlights the need for evidence‐based fire management in protected areas and the risk that large‐scale and/or high‐intensity fires may pose to biodiversity even within fire‐adapted ecosystems.
Utilization of EGFR, ALK, and BRAF Inhibitors in the Treatment of Lung Cancer in Germany
Authors: Rischke Nikolaj , Kanbach Josephine , Haug Ulrike 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThere is a lack of real‐world data on the use of targeted cancer drugs requiring molecular tumor diagnostics in the treatment of lung cancer in Germany.AimsWe aimed to characterize the use of such drugs in lung cancer patients based on longitudinal analyses.Methods and ResultsUsing the GePaRD database (claims data from ~20% of the German population) we identified lung cancer patients diagnosed in 2016 based on a previously developed algorithm and followed them until death, end of continuous insurance, or end of 2019. We determined the proportion of patients treated with at least one of the drugs under study (EGFR, ALK, and BRAF inhibitors). We described these patients regarding demographic characteristics, treatment patterns, and overall survival. We included 7833 incident lung cancer patients. Of these, 392 (5%) were treated with one of the drugs under study, the majority (62%) being female. In 314 out of the 392 patients (80%), the first dispensation was an EGFR inhibitor (afatinib: 54%, erlotinib: 33%), and in 72 patients (18%), it was an ALK inhibitor (crizotinib: 90%). The proportion of patients treated with these drugs was 4.8% in West Germany and 6.2% in East Germany. About half of these patients had chemotherapy before targeted therapy. Median overall survival after the first targeted therapy was 22 months.ConclusionOne twentieth of lung cancer patients diagnosed in 2016 in Germany received at least one EGFR, ALK, or BRAF inhibitor during follow‐up. The proportion was higher in East than in West Germany. As the development and availability of new cancer drugs is a dynamic area, regularly updated utilization studies—ideally as cross‐country‐comparisons—are required.
A Case Report of Giant Bilateral Wolffian Adnexal Tumor
Authors: Huang Ling , Zhou Yan , Hong Xiaoshan , Luo Xiping , Shen Min , Yan Shanshan , Sun Xiaoli 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundWolffian adnexal tumor is a rare type of tumor that was first discovered and reported by Karim‐inejad in 1973. Wolffian adnexal tumor lacks specific clinical manifestations and its histological morphology is similar to various other tumors, making it highly prone to misdiagnosis. To enhance our understanding of this disease, we hereby report a case of Wolffian adnexal tumor diagnosed and treated in our hospital.CaseIt is the first report of a giant bilateral Wolffian tumor, with pleural effusion and pericardial effusion as the initial symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested a huge lobulated mass (25.3 × 17.8 × 21.9 cm) in the mid‐lower abdomen and pelvis, involving both ovaries. A diagnosis of “ovarian malignancy” was made before the surgery. Hysterectomy, bilateral adnexectomy, and omentectomy were performed. Postoperative pathology revealed a bilateral Wolffian tumor. Postoperative chemotherapy with a taxol and cisplatin (TP) regimen was administered for six cycles. Follow‐up at 2 months postoperatively showed resolution of pericardial and pleural effusions, and there has been no recurrence during the 3‐year follow‐up period.ConclusionWolffian adnexal tumor lacks specific clinical manifestations, and its prognosis is good after treatment.
Comprehensive Multi‐Omics Analysis Reveals NPC2 and ITGAV Genes as Potential Prognostic Biomarkers in Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Piroozkhah Moein , Zabihi Mohammadreza , Jalali Pooya , Salehi Zahra 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundGastrointestinal cancers (GICs) continue to dominate in terms of both incidence and mortality worldwide. Due to the absence of efficient and accurate prognostic biomarkers, the prognosis and treatment outcomes of many GICs are poor. Identifying biomarkers to predict individual clinical outcomes efficiently is a fundamental challenge in clinical oncology. Although several biomarkers have been continually discovered, their predictive accuracy is relatively modest, and their therapeutic use is restricted. In light of this, the discovery of reliable biomarkers for predicting prognosis and outcome in GIC is urgently required.Materials and MethodsWe evaluated the Human Protein Atlas dataset and identified NPC Intracellular Cholesterol Transporter 2 (NPC2) and Integrin Subunit Alpha V (ITGAV) as probable poor predictive genes for these cancers. In addition, we used the GEPIA2, cBioPortal, UALCAN, LinkedOmics, STRING, Enrichr, TISDB, TIMER2.0, hTFTarget, miRTarBase, circBank, and drug–gene interaction database databases to conduct a comprehensive and systematic analysis of the NPC2 and ITGAV genes.ResultOur results found high expression levels of NPC2 and ITGAV in most GICs. The aforementioned gene expressions were linked to several clinicopathological characteristics of GICs as well as poorer prognosis in LIHC and STAD. The most common alteration type of NPC2 was amplification, and for ITGAV was deep deletion. Significant promotor hypermethylation was also seen in NPC2 and ITGAV in PAAD and COAD, respectively. For the immunologic significance, NPC2 and ITGAV were positively correlated with the abundance of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes and macrophages. Furthermore, various immunomodulators showed strong correlations with the expression of these genes. There were currently 10 small molecule drugs targeting ITGAV.ConclusionConsequently, our bioinformatics analysis showed that NPC2 and ITGAV might be used as potential biomarkers to determine the prognosis of various GICs and are also related to immune infiltration.
Prevalence of gastric cancer following colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection for lesions more than 20 mm: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Tomita Yuri , Yoshida Naohisa , Ishikawa Hideki , Otani Takahiro , Kobayashi Reo , Hashimoto Hikaru , Hirose Ryohei , Dohi Osamu , Inoue Ken , Morinaga Yukiko , Itoh Yoshito 
Published: December 2024

AbstractObjectivesColorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for large tumors is spreading worldwide. Gastric cancer (GC) sometimes occurs after colorectal ESD. However, its status including frequency and risk factors have not been examined well. In this study, we analyzed the detailed status of GC after colorectal ESD.MethodsThis was a single‐center retrospective study. Patients receiving colorectal ESD between 2010 and 2018 were reviewed. All patients were recommended to receive esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) for screening. Finally, 436 patients receiving EGD, who underwent colorectal ESD for lesions of ≥20 mm were analyzed. The primary outcome was the GC rate after colorectal ESD, including intramucosal cancer. As a control, we compared it to the GC rate in matched Japanese national cancer registry data. The secondary outcome was risk factors for developing GC.ResultsThe mean age was 66.9 ± 10.6 and 55.3% were males. The GC rate was 5.96% (26/436) with a median observation period of 27 months. It was significantly higher than the mean GC rate in the diagnosed age calculated with the cancer registry (0.26%, observed value/expected value ratio [95% confidence interval]: 22.20 [14.50–32.53], p < 0.01). The comparison between cases with and without GC showed that significant risk factors were male (p = 0.02) and smokers (p < 0.01) and their GC rates were 8.3% and 10.9%. Also, in the limited cases, Helicobacter pylori infection (past and present) and atrophic gastritis were significant and their GC rates were 11.1% and 11.6%.ConclusionThe GC rate was high after resecting colorectal tumors of ≥20 mm, suggesting the necessity of EGD.
Novel HP2MGL resin‐based enrichment of flavonoids from Dendrobium catenatum flower and their antiaging efficacy
Authors: Guo Yuntao , Lai Danni , Pan Fupeng , Sabier Maidinai , Liu Jingjing , Yu Qiaoxian , Wang Pan , Si Jinping , Zhang Xinfeng 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to enrich flavonoids from Dendrobium catenatum Wall ex Lindl flowers using macroporous resins and investigate their bioactivity. The optimal enrichment process with HP2MGL resin was established with a total flavonoid concentration of 0.50 mg/mL, a sample flow rate of 1 BV/h, and a sample volume of 25.5 BV. Desorption was performed using 80% ethanol at a flow rate of 3 BV/h and an eluent volume of 5 BV. The purified extract showed a 7.3‐fold increase in purity compared to the crude extract. A total of 33 major compounds in the purified flavonoids were identified and quantified, including flavonols and flavonoid C‐glycosides, with hyperoside being the most abundant. In vivo tests demonstrated that the enriched extract extended the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans, enhanced locomotion, and increased superoxide dismutase activity while significantly reducing oxidative stress markers such as lipofuscin, reactive oxygen species, and malondialdehyde. The findings provide a practical method for large‐scale extraction of flavonoids from D. catenatum flowers and suggest that Dendrobium catenatum flower extract (DCFE‐E) exhibits strong antiaging properties, indicating potential applications in functional foods and cosmetics. This research contributes to the scientific understanding of D. catenatum resource utilization and enhances the value of its products.
Navigating policy in (trans)action: A methodological framework for situated and relational policy practices
Authors: Nagy Szilvia 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis paper presents a methodological framework to study situated and relational policy practices in the context of the policy transaction perspective. Building on policy ethnography, it addresses the entanglements of researching policy transactions through triangulation of methods to explore how practices emerge, and how they are “seen,” “talked about,” and “read.” The paper aims to contribute to the policy transaction framework in three ways. First, it discusses how the policy transaction framework furthers the shifting of focus from policy systems to policy worlds, to address the complexities enclosed in policy processes. Second, it advances the framework along the discussion of relationality and situatedness, to highlight the reciprocal mode of transactions. Third, it proposes a methodological exemplar for the analysis of policy transactions, by looking at transactions as practices. With these steps, the paper aims to contribute to a methodological framework for undertaking research in the context of the policy transaction perspective.
Nonstationary Functional Time Series Forecasting
Authors: Lin Shang Han , Yang Yang 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTWe propose a nonstationary functional time series forecasting method with an application to age‐specific mortality rates observed over the years. The method begins by taking the first‐order differencing and estimates its long‐run covariance function. Through eigendecomposition, we obtain a set of estimated functional principal components and their associated scores for the differenced series. These components allow us to reconstruct the original functional data and compute the residuals. To model the temporal patterns in the residuals, we again perform dynamic functional principal component analysis and extract its estimated principal components and the associated scores for the residuals. As a byproduct, we introduce a geometrically decaying weighted approach to assign higher weights to the most recent data than those from the distant past. Using the Swedish age‐specific mortality rates from 1751 to 2022, we demonstrate that the weighted dynamic functional factor model can produce more accurate point and interval forecasts, particularly for male series exhibiting higher volatility.
Using the GRADE‐ADOLOPMENT framework in developing the Philippine national screening guideline recommendations
Authors: Cabaluna Ian Theodore G. , Villarruz‐Sulit Maria Vanessa C. , Legaspi Katelyn Edelwina Y. , Dans Leonila F. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundPreventive health screening is an important strategy in improving health outcomes of the general population and sustaining universal healthcare initiatives. Due to the large resource requirement, we used the GRADE ADOLOPMENT framework to synthesize the evidence and develop recommendations for preventive health screening.ObjectiveOur objectives were to describe the development and feasibility of a national preventive screening practice guideline using the GRADE‐adolopment process and to discuss the methodological process, contextual differences from the source guidelines, and the resulting changes to the final recommendations.MethodsA multidisciplinary team was convened. We used the GRADE‐ADOLOPMENT and Evidence‐to‐Decision (EtD) framework in synthesizing the evidence and developing the recommendations. Evidence from the World Health Organization, United States Preventive Services Task Force, and Canadian Task Force on Preventive Healthcare were used. Values and preferences of the guideline developers were incorporated through the EtD framework.ResultIn 6 months, we developed 16 evidence summaries and developed 23 recommendations for 16 prioritized conditions. Thirteen recommendations were adopted. Four recommendations were modified to address contextual differences. Six recommendations were developed de novo due to either lack of evidence or differences in values and preferences.ConclusionThe GRADE‐adolopment framework was a feasible and efficient framework in adopting guidelines on preventive screening. The EtD framework improved the transparency and highlighted areas to consider in making recommendations for the Philippine context. Challenges encountered were insufficiency of local evidence, and the lack of experience and skills in interpreting and analyzing the evidence especially on screening strategies.
Income Elasticity of Out‐of‐Pocket Healthcare Expenditure for Different Provider Types in Bangladesh
Authors: Kibria Ashraful , Shimul Shafiun N. , Zabeen Irfat 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThe impact of income on health expenditure has been studied extensively using national‐level data; however, studies estimating the household‐level income elasticity of health expenditure, particularly by provider types, remain limited. Analysing nationally representative household survey data, we examine outpatient and inpatient out‐of‐pocket (OOP) expenses across healthcare providers and by various income levels. We employed the Heckman two‐step model and OLS regression to estimate income elasticity separately for outpatient and inpatient services. Our findings indicate that income elasticity varies significantly by service type, provider, and income level. Outpatient care at private facilities is a luxury good for the lower‐income households, while outpatient expenses for public and informal outpatient care providers remain inelastic across income levels. Private inpatient care is also income inelastic, whereas public inpatient care shows non‐uniform elasticity. Overall, lower‐income households showed greater elasticity than wealthier ones. The results imply, during income shocks, poorer households switch to cheaper public and informal care. Inpatient care is prioritised over other expenses, increasing the risk of poverty among low‐income households. The study suggests the dire need for financial protection measures, particularly for low‐income groups, as OOP health expenditure often becomes catastrophic for those households. In addition, higher income resulting from economic growth will increase the demand for private outpatient services, suggesting quality improvement for public health facilities as well as the importance of adapting healthcare policies to evolving income dynamics.
COVID‐19 Pandemic in a Brazilian Afro‐Derived Community (Quilombo)
Authors: Bonfim Joenilton Oliveira , da Silveira Carlos Darwin Gomes , Braga Barbara Vidigal , Borges Tacio Nobrega , Amorim Fábio Ferreira , Costa Ana Maria 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesThe COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted the significance of comprehending social vulnerability as a pivotal element in public health. This study investigated the perceptions and practices of a Brazilian Afro‐derived community (quilombo), descendants of enslaved Africans, regarding COVID‐19.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study was conducted in July 2021 by administering a survey to an adult representative from each household in a Brazilian quilombola community.ResultsAmong the 188 interviewed individuals, 45.2% reported that they did not feel adequately informed by healthcare professionals. The study found high adherence to preventive measures (wearing masks, using alcohol‐based gel sanitiser, leaving home only when necessary and COVID‐19 vaccination). Only 6.9% reported a household member contracting COVID‐19, with only one case requiring hospitalisation and no deaths. Higher education was associated with an increased diagnosis of COVID‐19 in their household (OR: 37.058, 95% CI: 4.053–338.837, p = 0.001), while feeling well or very well informed by television/radio was associated with a reduced diagnosis (OR: 0.223, 95% CI: 0.057–0.878, p = 0.032). Being married was associated with increased adherence to all prevention measures (OR: 4.598, 95% CI: 1.481–14.27, p = 0.008), whereas internet use as a source of information was independently associated with a reduced chance of adherence (OR: 0.240; 95% CI: 0.080–0.722, p = 0.011).ConclusionDespite many individuals reporting a lack of information from healthcare professionals about the pandemic, substantial adherence to protective measures was observed. Our findings highlight the critical importance of preventive measures during the pandemic, especially for vulnerable populations with limited access to healthcare services, and underscore the need for effective communication strategies to combat misinformation, particularly on social media platforms.
Understanding the Public's Viewpoint on Organ Donation Among Adults in Bangladesh: An Exploratory Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Moonajilin Mst Sabrina , Banik Rajon , Islam Md. Saiful , Ishadi Kifayat Sadmam , Hosen Ismail , Gesesew Hailay Abrha , Ward Paul R. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsOrgan donation is the last option for patients with end‐stage organ failure, but the number of people in need of transplantation outweighs the supply of donor organs. A thorough analysis of public understanding is required to design educational programs that increase public commitment to organ donation. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore Bangladeshi adults' understanding, attitudes, and willingness towards organ donation, while also investigating the sources of information, gender‐specific knowledge, intentions, and the factors influencing their decisions.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey was conducted between October 15 and November 25, 2021, using a non‐probability convenience sampling technique. Data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics.ResultsAmong 592 participants, only 35.8% were knowledgeable about organ donation. Internet/online sources were the most reported source of knowledge (37.8%), followed by social media (36%). Despite having limited knowledge, 63.7% had a positive attitude, with females demonstrating a more positive attitude than males (β = 0.09, p = 0.024). Males were significantly more likely than females to follow Bangladesh's specific organ donation laws (29.3% vs. 25%, p = 0.004). Besides, 48.6% of females, compared to 40.4% of males, believe that the health service related to organ donation in Bangladesh is ineffective (p = 0.016). More than one‐third (35.1%) of the participants indicated a willingness to donate their organs after death. The participants' significant barriers to organ donation were found to be family objections (40.4%), health complications (34.4%), fear of disfigurement (31.1%), and religious barriers (26.8%).ConclusionAlthough Bangladeshi adults have a positive attitude regarding organ donation, they lack adequate knowledge, which renders them unlikely to be eager to donate organs. Therefore, it is crucial to update policy within a sociocultural framework to boost organ donation for transplantation. National education campaigns and awareness‐raising events should be held in Bangladesh to increase public knowledge of organ donation and transplants.