bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Using H‐Convergence to Calculate the Numerical Errors for 1D Unsaturated Seepage Under Steady‐State Conditions
Authors: Chapuis Robert P. , Taveau Coline , Duhaime François , Weber Simon , Marefat Vahid , Zhang Lu , Blessent Daniela , Bouaanani Najib , Pelletier Dominique 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTUnsaturated zones are important for geotechnical design, geochemical reactions, and microbial reactions. The numerical analysis of unsaturated seepage is complex because it involves highly nonlinear partial differential equations. The permeability can vary by orders of magnitude over short vertical distances. This article defines and uses H‐convergence tests to quantify numerical errors made by uniform meshes with element size (ES) for 1D steady‐state conditions. The quantitative H‐convergence should not be confused with a qualitative mesh sensitivity study. The difference between numerical and mathematical convergences is stated. A detailed affordable method for an H‐convergence test is presented. The true but unknown solution is defined as the asymptote of the numerical solutions for all solution components when ES decreases to zero. The numerical errors versus ES are then assessed with respect to the true solution, and using a log–log plot, which indicates whether a code is correct or incorrect. If a code is correct, its results follow the rules of mathematical convergence in a mathematical convergence domain (MCD) which is smaller than the numerical convergence domain (NCD). If a code is incorrect, it has an NCD but no MCD. Incorrect algorithms of incorrect codes need to be modified and repaired. Existing codes are shown to converge numerically within large NCDs but generate large errors, up to 500%, in the NCDs, a dangerous situation for designers.
The Relationship Between a Hospital's Magnet Status and LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Policies and Practices in US Hospitals
Authors: Yu Hyunmin , Bonett Stephen , Flores Dalmacio Dennis , Meanley Steven , Choi Seul Ki , Hanneman Tari , Bauermeister José A. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTLGBTQ+ individuals face discrimination in healthcare settings. Magnet hospitals have been associated with positive patient outcomes, yet it remains uncertain whether Magnet designation is associated with hospitals' LGBTQ+ inclusivity in policies and practices. This study examined 801 American hospitals across 47 states that participated in the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) in 2021. Multilevel modeling was utilized to investigate the association between Magnet status and HEI scores, adjusting for hospital type and state‐level covariates, including LGBTQ+ inclusiveness in laws, political climate, racial/ethnic minority population, and Medicaid expansion status. Among the 801 hospitals, 32.1% (257 hospitals) held Magnet status. Magnet hospitals demonstrated higher HEI scores compared to non‐Magnet hospitals (γ = 2.13, p = 0.022), despite significant variations across states (intraclass correlation = 0.22). No significant cross‐level interactions were found. Overall, Magnet designation is independently associated with improved LGBTQ+ inclusivity in hospitals regardless of the state in which the hospital is located. Policymakers and healthcare leaders should consider leveraging the Magnet Recognition Program as a benchmark for promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity within hospitals. Additionally, all healthcare institutions should prioritize comprehensive evaluations and improvements to their policies and practices to ensure inclusivity for LGBTQ+ patients.
Outcomes in Pediatric Cholesteatoma
Authors: Miller Katherine M. , Liu Yi‐Chun Carol , Weinstein Jaqueline E. , Cohen Michael S. , Chi David H. , Anne Samantha 
Published: October 2024

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of the study is to evaluate the outcomes of surgical management options for cholesteatoma using a national database.Study DesignDatabase analysis of the Pediatric Health Information System database to identify children undergoing surgical intervention for cholesteatoma from October 2015 to December 2022.MethodsPatients were categorized by initial surgical modality: tympanoplasty (TM), tympanoplasty with canal wall‐up tympanomastoidectomy (TM‐CWU), and tympanoplasty with canal wall‐down tympanomastoidectomy (TM‐CWD). Group comparisons were done on number of surgical revisions and number of patients identified with recommendations for hearing aids.ResultsA total of 6304 patients were identified in the database who underwent surgery for cholesteatoma. Of these children, 3405 underwent TM (54.0%), 3116 underwent TM‐CWU (49.4%), and 825 underwent TM‐CWD (8.2%). The estimated difference in mean number of procedures was significantly higher in the TM‐CWU group compared to TM‐CWD (−0.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.406,−0.279, P < .0001) and the TM group (9.352, 95% CI 0.315, 0.390, P < .0001). The rate of significant hearing loss necessitating hearing aids was significantly lower in the TM group, but there was no difference between the TM‐CWU and TM‐CWD groups (1.2%, P < .03, 1.9% vs 2.7%, P = .13). There was no difference in the number of speech delays/therapy diagnoses between TM and TM‐CWU or TM‐CWU and TM‐CWD (3.5%vs 4.4% P = .07, 4.4% vs 5.2%., P = .38).ConclusionTM and TM‐CWD had lower total surgical procedures than the TM‐CWU group, and the TM group had a lesser rate of recommendation for hearing aids. The difference between number of procedures is likely due to the complexity of the disease; for instance, TM was likely chosen for small, less severe disease cases, whereas TM‐CWD was chosen as more definitive treatment in aggressive cases. TM‐CWD is associated with a lower rate of recidivism and recurrence, which also likely contributed to the lower number of procedures.
Influence of Substrate on Sb2Se3/CdS Heterojunction Thin Film Solar Cells and Evaluation of Their Performance by Dark J‐V Analysis
Authors: Govindharajulu Srinivasan Moosi , Anandan Rohini , Madaka Ramakrishna , Rath Jatindra Kumar , Piraviperumal Malar 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTA simple binary antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) absorber is evolving as an alternative photovoltaic material in thin film solar cells because of its unique properties and easy processing. Sb2Se3 thin films having good crystalline quality are grown via versatile thermal evaporation from pre‐synthesized near stoichiometric compound material on molybdenum‐coated soda lime glass (SLG) and borosilicate glass (BG) substrates. Following the systematic characterizations on the absorber films, substrate configured Sb2Se3/CdS heterojunction devices were fabricated and their photovoltaic characteristics have been studied using current density vs. voltage (J‐V), dark J‐V modeling, external quantum efficiency and capacitance vs. voltage measurements. The power conservation efficiency values of 4.88% and 5.04% were achieved for the devices fabricated on SLG and BG substrates, respectively with deficit in open circuit voltage. The obtained values are higher in comparison to the reported device efficiencies in substrate configured Sb2Se3 solar cells, in which the absorber is prepared through thermal evaporation. To understand the loss in open circuit voltage, a compact equivalent circuit model was considered and identified the contribution of different shunt leakage paths in the devices. In addition to that, the device fabricated on the SLG was stable with minimal changes in its photovoltaic performance for a period spanning over 200 days. The results obtained are encouraging with scope for improving the device performance through interface engineering and back surface passivation strategies.
Validation of a Biopsychosocial Distress Screening Tool, SupportScreen, in a Brazilian Cancer Center
Authors: Bergerot Cristiane Decat , Razavi Marianne , Bergerot Paulo Gustavo , De Domenico Edvane Birelo Lopes , Clark Karen Lynn , Loscalzo Matthew , Pal Sumanta Kumar , Dale William 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveBiopsychosocial distress is a common yet often underestimated complication in cancer care. We sought to translate and evaluate the psychometric properties of SupportScreen distress assessment tool in Brazil.MethodsA cancer cohort study was conducted at a public hospital in Brazil. The SupportScreen tool underwent transcultural translation into Portuguese. Eligible patients completed the SupportScreen, Distress Thermometer (DT), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐General version (FACT‐G). Statistical analyses included confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses (CFA and EFA), comparisons with established distress tools, and assessments of associations with patients' characteristics.ResultsA total of 302 patients were assessed (M:F 35.4%:64.6%; median age: 55). Most patients were diagnosed with breast (29.1%) and gastrointestinal cancer (20.5%), at advanced disease stage (78.8%). CFA identified optimal models for emotional and physical distress; EFA revealed two factors for the logistics of medical care: practical and medical system distress. The concurrent validity of subscales demonstrated significant correlations between distress domains. Sensitivity analyses indicated good performance of emotional and physical domains in identifying distress compared to gold standard criteria. Female patients were more likely to report high emotional distress, while younger age and late disease stage were associated with higher physical distress. Additionally, late disease stage was linked to higher practical distress.ConclusionEmotional and physical domains demonstrated validity and reliability, aligning with validated measures. Logistics of medical care distress revealed practical and medical system dimensions, expanding understanding of patient challenges. The SupportScreen tool exhibited concurrent validity and sensitivity in identifying distress.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Cancer Dependent Quality of Life (CancerDQoL) Questionnaire: An Individualised Measure of the Impact of Cancer and Its Treatment on Quality of Life
Authors: Davidson Jonathan , Taylor Michelle D. , Gilbride Charlie J. , Romaine Jacquelyn , Tipples Karen , Powell Melanie E. , Wolstenholme Virginia , Bradley Clare 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe Cancer Dependent Quality of Life (CancerDQoL) questionnaire asks about the impact of cancer and its treatment on individuals' quality of life (QoL). This study evaluates the psychometric properties of the CancerDQoL in a UK sample.MethodsPatients (n = 159) with a range of cancers, recruited from Barts Health NHS Trust and Barts Maggie's Centre, completed self‐administered questionnaires: CancerDQoL, EQ‐5D‐VAS (health status), EORTC‐QLQ‐C30 (predominantly health symptoms/functioning) and W‐BQ16 (well‐being). Based on the pre‐existing –DQoL template and Item Library (Bradley), the CancerDQoL includes 23 cancer‐specific life‐domain items and four overview items.ResultsExploratory factor analysis revealed a 22‐item, single‐factor solution. Internal consistency was excellent (α = 0.94). Cancer negatively impacted all life domains: ‘feelings about future’ had the most negative mean weighted (by importance) impact (WI) score. ‘Physical abilities’ WI scores were ranked 12th. CancerDQoL Average Weighted Impact (AWI) scores were more strongly correlated with the Cancer‐dependent QoL overview item than with the General QoL or General Health overview items. As expected, the EQ‐5D‐VAS and EORTC‐QLQ‐C30 correlated together more strongly than with CancerDQoL AWI scores.ConclusionsThe CancerDQoL is the first individualised questionnaire measuring the impact of cancer and its treatment on QoL. The CancerDQoL AWI score is related to, but different from, measures of health status/functioning and well‐being. Eleven CancerDQoL life‐domains were more negatively impacted/important than physical abilities which is a major focus of the EQ‐5D and EORTC‐QLQ‐C30. By revealing aspects of life most impacted by cancer and its treatment, efforts can be prioritised to improve QoL for people with cancer.
A cost‐utility analysis of single maintenance and reliever (SMART) therapy as compared to step 3 fixed‐dose therapy in patients aged 12 years or more with uncontrolled asthma
Authors: Rodríguez‐Martínez Carlos E. , Sossa‐Briceño Monica P. , Castro‐Rodriguez Jose A. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractObjectivesA significant percentage of patients with asthma appear to benefit from the addition of long‐acting β2‐agonists (LABAs) to ICS to achieve better control of their disease. The aim of the present study was to determine the cost‐utility of single inhaler combination inhaled ICS/LABAs as both maintenance and reliever (SMART) versus remaining at the same treatment step with fixed‐dose ICS–LABA maintenance with a short‐acting β2‐agonist (SABA) as reliever in patients aged 12 years or more with uncontrolled asthma.MethodsA Markov‐type model was developed to estimate the costs and health outcomes of a simulated cohort of patients aged 12 years or more with uncontrolled asthma treated for 12 months. The effectiveness data and transition probabilities were obtained from a recent meta‐analysis. Cost data were obtained from official databases provided by the Colombian Ministry of Health. The main outcome was the variable “quality‐adjusted life‐years” (QALYs).ResultsThe base‐case analysis showed that compared with remaining at the same GINA treatment step with ICS/LABA maintenance plus SABA reliever, ICS/LABAs as SMART was associated with lower costs, US$2,906.92 versus $4,462.02 average cost per patient, and the greatest gain in QALYs, 0.8540 versus 0.8258 QALYs on average per patient, thus leading to dominance.ConclusionsCompared with remaining at the same GINA treatment step with ICS/LABA maintenance plus SABA reliever, ICS/LABAs as SMART is more cost‐effective in patients aged 12 years or more with uncontrolled asthma. This is because ICS/LABAs as SMART showed a greater gain in QALYs at lower total treatment costs.
Prevalence of Bottle‐Feeding Practice and Associated Factors Among Mothers of Children Under Five in the World, 2024: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Getachew Demis , Getachew Eyob , Yirsaw Amlaku Nigusie , Ayele Habtamu Semagne , Andargie Getnet Alemu , Lakew Abriham Adane , Tareke Abiyu Abadi , Zeru Negesse Shiferaw , Lakew Gebeyehu 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundChild‐feeding practices, particularly breastfeeding, significantly impact children's health and survival. However, bottle feeding, although historically practiced, presents numerous disadvantages affecting optimal child nutrition and health. Despite World Health Organisation and The United Nations Children's Fund recommendations against bottle feeding, it remains prevalent globally, affecting roughly 59% of infants worldwide and 85% in Australia by 5 months of age.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the prevalence and determinants of bottle feeding among mothers of children under five globally.MethodsThis systematic review and meta‐analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis guidelines. We comprehensively searched electronic databases for English‐language articles published between 2014 and 2024. The quality of studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Data were analysed in STATA version 17, including summary tables, narrative descriptions, forest plots, and statistical heterogeneity and publication bias assessment.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of bottle feeding among mothers was 57%. Subgroup analysis revealed higher prevalence in larger sample sizes (> 2151) and lower prevalence in smaller ones. Factors significantly associated with bottle feeding included mode of delivery (OR = 1.953; 95%, CI: 1.272, 2.635), child hospitalisation (OR = 1.984, CI: 1.593, 2.376), mother's occupation (OR = 1.579; CI: 1.467, 1.690), post‐natal care (OR = 2.965; CI: (1.358, 4.571), age of children (OR = 2.836; CI: 1.895, 3.777), place of residence (OR = 1.423; CI: 0.994, 1.852), and mother's education (OR = 3.366, CI: 1.949, 4.783).ConclusionEfforts to promote optimal child‐feeding practices should address the identified determinants, emphasising the importance of breastfeeding and providing support to mothers, especially those facing challenges such as cesarean delivery, child hospitalisation, and maternal employment.
Copolymers of Vinylphosphonic and p‐Methacrylamidobenzoic Acids and their Complexes with Lanthanide Ions
Authors: Nekrasova T. N. , Nazarova O. V. , Fischer A. I. , Nesterova N. A. , Shuvaeva O. D. , Zolotova Yu. I. , Dobrodumov A. V. , Vlasova E. N. , Bezrukova M. A. , Panarin E. F. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractNew copolymers of vinylphosphonic and p‐methacrylamidobenzoic acids of varying compositions were synthesized via free radical copolymerization. The structure of the obtained polymers was confirmed by NMR and FTIR spectroscopy. As the proportion of vinylphosphonic acid in the initial reaction mixture increased, the yield of the copolymer and its molecular mass both decreased. The synthesized copolymers were found to form stable soluble luminescent complexes in dilute aqueous solutions, with a concentration range of 0.002 to 0.02 mg/ml. An increase in the concentration of vinylphosphonic acid moieties in copolymers was accompanied by a noticeable decrease in the luminescence intensity. The new copolymers’ ability to bind efficiently with lanthanide ions renders them a promising material for the design of polymeric contrast agents, preparations for radioimmunotherapy and photodynamic therapy.
Rapid Synthesis of Schiff Bases via Pyridine‐2‐Carboxylic Acid as an Effective Catalyst
Authors: Vankar Smitkumar D. , Makwana Hardi M. , Sharma Mayank G. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis work focuses on the rapid synthesis of Schiff bases with green protocols, where P2CA (Pyridine‐2‐carboxylic acid) is utilized as a catalyst. The condensation reaction of aldehydes and anilines, facilitated by P2CA, resulted in the production of Schiff bases in good to excellent yield within a remarkably short time of up to 15 min. The electronic effect of the various substituents on aldehyde and aniline, in combination with the catalytic effect of P2CA, accelerated the reactions under mild conditions. The reusability of the catalyst was thoroughly examined, and the catalyst was characterized over every cycle. Importantly, this approach is not only green and sustainable, but also cost‐effective, harmless, and environmentally friendly, thanks to the affordability and benign nature of P2CA.
Effect of Mercerization on the Properties of Cellulose Fiber and Cellulose Hydrogel Extracted from Pineapple Leaf Fiber
Authors: Mat Nasir Nur Aina Farhana , Wong Chang Koon , Jamaluddin Jamarosliza , Adrus Nadia 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis study investigated the effects of alkaline treatment on the pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) cellulose extraction and the properties of cellulose hydrogel. PALF was treated with different concentrations of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) (2 to 10 wt %) and at room temperature (RT) and 80 °C. Then, extracted cellulose was then dissolved in N,N’‐dimethyl acetamide (DMAc)/lithium chloride (LiCl) solvent system and formed into hydrogel by phase inversion method. The Fourier transform infrared spectra shows the peak disappearance at 1606 cm−1 proves that lignin was removed starting from 6 and 4 wt % NaOH at RT and 80 °C, respectively. Higher NaOH concentrations treatment increased thermal stability and the crystallinity (71 to 79 %) of the fibers. Higher NaOH concentration and treatment temperature enhanced cellulose extraction from PALF, leading to more physical crosslinking during hydrogel formation. High amount of cellulose extracted decreased the hydrogel's swelling equilibrium and increased the gel fraction. The highest transmittance (87.8 %) and the lowest intensity of absorbance (at 280 nm corresponding to lignin) were obtained by the hydrogel prepared with PALF treated with 8 wt % NaOH at 80 °C. Clearly, this research findings provide new insights into optimizing cellulose extraction using alkaline treatment specifically for cellulose hydrogel formation.
Chitosan‐Coated Glass Beads as Stabilizer of Insulin; A Novel Strategy for the Storage of Pharmaceutical Proteins
Authors: Akbarian Mohsen , Farjadian Fatemeh 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBesides the pharmaceutical protein production challenge, storing and transporting them between industrial sectors and the administration site have always been problematic. Insulin, an example of the most widely used therapeutic protein, aggregates into unstable larger particles and, in many cases, into amyloid fibrils under environmental stresses. In this study, chitosan was used to decorate the surface of glass beads (to produce Chi@GB) to increase the structural stability of insulin against environmental stresses. FT‐IR spectroscopy characterized the beads, and HPLC determined the chitosan loading. The results showed that the modified beads could inhibit insulin fibrillation. In addition, the beads can be used in biopharmaceutical containers of insulin or other proteins for long‐term storage of their commercial products.
Double‐Shell Encapsulation of Lead‐Free Tin Halide Perovskite for Self‐Powered Smart Windows
Authors: Wang Aifei , Li Junjie , Zhang Yupeng , Cheng Suwen , Wang Yanchen , Xie Yuan , Yu Chen , Chen Haoyu , Dong Jingjin , Cao Jiupeng , Wang Fangfang , Huang Wei , Qin Tianshi 
Published: October 2024

AbstractLuminescent solar concentrators (LSC) have the potential application in building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV). 0D tin‐based perovskites are a promising embedding phosphor in LSC due to the large Stokes shift and high photoluminescence quantum yield. But the instability and uncontrollable crystal growth are severe limiting their successful utilization in device fabrication. To tackle these issues, double‐shell encapsulated configurations are presented, soft ligands of hypophosphorous acid and hard‐shell of hollow mesoporous silica are simultaneously suppressing the oxidation of Sn2+ and restricting crystal growth within nano‐matrix. The stable phosphor is subsequently embedded into LSC for harvesting solar energy and the resulting output power efficiently drives the combined electrochromic glass under natural light. These fabricated devices also offer the self‐adaptable switch on/off functionality to regulate light absorption with variable solar irradiation intensity in real time. This approach is anticipated to open new avenues for utilizing lead‐free perovskite nanomaterials in self‐powered smart windows for BIPV.