bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frailty in Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries and Traditional Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Shi Sandra M. , Olivieri-Mui Brianne , Park Chan Mi , Sison Stephanie , McCarthy Ellen P. , Kim Dae H.
Published: August 2024

Importance

A growing proportion of the population is enrolling in Medicare Advantage (MA), which typically offers additional benefits compared with traditional Medicare (TM).

Objective

To determine whether frailty and frailty trajectories differ between MA enrollees and TM enrollees.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (2015-2016). Analyses were conducted from August 2023 to March 2024. Participants were community-dwelling Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older.

Exposure

Enrollment in MA vs TM.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Frailty was calculated by a frailty index (FI) (range, 0-1, with higher values indicating greater frailty) and the Fried Frailty Phenotype (FFP) score (range, 0-5, with higher values indicating greater frailty). Physical performance, including Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score (range, 0-12, with higher values indicating better performance), and gait speed (meters per second) were measured. The primary outcome was the difference in FI and FFP scores from the 2015 baseline assessment to the 2016 follow-up assessment. Secondary outcomes include the 1-year changes in SPPB and gait speed.

Results

The final cohort consisted of 7063 participants (2775 [23.1%] aged >80 years; 4040 [54.7%] female), representing a sample of the 38.8 million beneficiaries. There were 2583 (35.0%) MA enrollees (13.6 million) and 4480 (65.0%) TM enrollees (25.2 million). At baseline, the FI score was similar between MA and TM enrollees (mean [SD], 0.22 [0.15] vs 0.21 [0.14]), although MA enrollees had worse phenotypic frailty (496 participants [15.2%] vs 811 participants [13.7%] considered frail by FFP score), SPPB scores (mean [SD], 6.91 [3.34] vs 7.21 [3.27]), and gait speed (0.79 [0.24] m/s vs 0.82 [0.23] m/s) than TM enrollees. One year later, there were no differences between MA and TM enrollees in the 1-year change in FI score (mean [SD], 0.016 [0.071] vs 0.014 [0.066]; adjusted mean difference, 0.001 [95% CI, −0.004 to 0.005]), FFP score (mean [SD], 0.017 [1.004] vs 0.007 [0.958]; adjusted mean difference, −0.009 [95% CI, −0.067 to 0.049]), SPPB score (mean [SD], −0.144 [2.064] vs −0.211 [1.968]; adjusted mean difference, 0.068 [95% CI, −0.076 to 0.212]), and gait speed (mean [SD], −0.0160 [0.148] m/s vs −0.007 [0.148] m/s; adjusted mean difference, −0.010 m/s [95% CI, −0.067 to 0.049 m/s]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of Medicare beneficiaries from 2015, MA enrollees experienced similar declines in frailty over 1 year compared with TM enrollees. Future work should examine whether the specific types of services covered by health insurance can impact frailty and health trajectories for older adults.
Functional and radiological sinonasal outcomes of CFTR modulators for sinus disease in cystic fibrosis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Tham Tristan , Li Felisha A. , Schneider Jacob R. , Saleem Matthew I. , Werner Michael T. , Chaskes Mark B. , Tong Charles C. L. , Fastenberg Judd H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators improve pulmonary outcomes in cystic fibrosis (CF) by stabilizing the CFTR protein on respiratory epithelial surfaces. To determine the efficacy of CFTR modulators on sinonasal outcomes in patients with CF, we performed a meta‐analysis of clinical trials to date that include functional and radiographic evidence of sinus disease.

Methods

English full‐text articles were searched in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Two reviewers screened articles and a third reviewer resolved disagreements. Articles were included if they reported functional or radiological sinonasal outcomes in patients with CF before and after CFTR modulator therapies. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines were followed, and the risk of bias in non‐randomized studies of interventions tool was used for quality assessment. The generic inverse variance method with random effects model was used for meta‐analysis. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and mean difference (MD) were used as effect measurements.

Results

Seven prospective and two retrospective studies representing 248 patients were included in this analysis. There was a significant improvement in sinonasal outcome test‐22 scores on elexacaftor‒tezacaftor‒ivacaftor (MD = 12.80, [95% confidence interval, CI: 10.46‒15.13], p < 0.001, n = 222), with no heterogeneity detected (I2 = 0%, p = 0.820). There was also a significant improvement in Lund‒Mackay scores (SMD = 1.25, [95% CI: 0.58‒1.91], p < 0.001, n = 88), with heterogeneity detected (I2 = 67%, p = 0.030).

Conclusions

CFTR modulators improve functional and radiologic sinonasal outcomes. Given the utility of CFTR modulators, the treatment paradigm for CF‐related chronic rhinosinusitis promises to evolve.
Optimized chattering‐attenuated sliding mode controller for a perturbed VTOL system
Authors: Oliva‐Leal Idael , Cervantes‐Rojas Jorge Said , Lozano Rogelio , González‐Hernández Iván
Published: August 2024

This study presents a novel design of an optimized chattering‐attenuated quasi‐sliding mode controller for the stabilization of a vertical take‐off and landing aircraft affected by external disturbances. We propose a methodology based on a particle swarm optimization algorithm to provide an optimal boundary layer thickness of the quasi‐sliding mode controller (QSMC) structure based on a sigmoid‐type function approximation to reduce the chattering noise in the control signal while an adequate stabilization quality is guaranteed. This represents an alternative to the common strategies based on a trial and error tuning of such boundary layer thickness of sigmoid‐type approximations. Also, the Lyapunov formalism is applied to restrict the search space of the QSMC gain to guarantee stability conditions. Some simulation tests were carried out to demonstrate the enhanced chattering attenuation capability of the proposed solution against a standard sliding mode controller and the superior stabilization performance versus other robust controllers.
Free‐Standing Carbon Materials for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Kim Hongjung , Son Yeonguk , Jo Changshin
Published: August 2024

Lithium metal, with its high theoretical capacity and low redox potential, is the most promising next‐generation high‐energy‐density battery anode material. However, the formation of uneven surface layers and dead lithium, significant volume changes in the electrode, and dendrite growth lead to rapid capacity degradation, low cycling stability, and safety issues, limiting the commercialization of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). As a strategy to improve the stability of LMBs, introducinga three‐dimensional (3D) structure with a large surface area can accommodate lithium (Li) inside the structure and homogenize local current density. Also, as a current collector and host material, free‐standing carbon materials, with the advantages of lightness, low cost, electrochemical and mechanical stability, and excellent electronic conductivity, can effectively enhance energy density and cycle performance. In this review, we first discuss the chemical properties of carbon, and then summarize recent research progress related to the 3D structuring and chemical modification of carbon materials as a Li metal host. Finally, we present perspectives on future research for the practical application of free‐standing carbon materials for LMBs.
Ecotoxicological assessment of waste foundry sands and the application of different classification systems
Authors: Alias Carlotta , Cioli Flavio , Abbà Alessandro , Feretti Donatella , Sorlini Sabrina
Published: August 2024

The application of a battery of bioassays is widely recognized as a useful tool for assessing environmental hazard samples. However, the integration of different toxicity data is a key aspect of this assessment and remains a challenge. The evaluation of industrial waste leachates did not initially undergo any of the proposed integration procedures. This research addressed this knowledge gap. Twenty-five samples of waste foundry sands were subjected to a leaching test (UNI EN 12457-2) to evaluate waste recovery and landfill disposal. The leachates were evaluated using a battery of standardized toxicity bioassays composed of Aliivibrio fischeri (EN ISO 11348-3), Daphnia magna (UNI EN ISO 6341), and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (UNI EN ISO 8692), both undiluted and diluted. Daphnia magna and P. subcapitata were the most affected organisms, with significant effects caused by 68% and 64% of undiluted samples, respectively. The dilution of samples facilitates the calculation of EC50 values, which ranged from greater than the highest concentration tested to 2.5 g/L for P. subcapitata. The data on single-organism toxicity were integrated using three methods: the Toxicity Classification System, the toxicity test battery integrated index, and the EcoScore system. The three classifications were strongly similar. According to all applied systems, three samples were clearly nontoxic (from iron casting plants) and two were highly toxic (from steel casting plants). Moreover, the similar ranking between undiluted and diluted leachates suggests the possibility of using only undiluted leachates for a more cost-effective and time-efficient screening of waste materials. The findings of this study highlight the usefulness of integrating ecotoxicological waste assessment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:2294–2311. © 2024 The Author(s). Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).

Key Points

The toxicity of waste foundry sand leachates was assessed using three ecotoxicity tests, and the results were summarized using three different synthetic indices to assess the environmental risk associated with the possible reuse of these materials. The samples of cast steel and a binder system based on sodium silicate-ester cured were very toxic and were associated with high environmental risk, whereas the samples of cast iron and different binder systems were associated with a very low level of risk. Classification systems are useful tools for responding to management and regulatory frameworks. Despite these findings, there remains a lack of development in the real-world use of these systems in the waste management industry.
Alchemilla ventiana — species nova e Rossia Media
Authors: Tichomirov V. N.
Published: August 2024

A new Alchemilla species — Alchemilla ventiana — is described in this study.
Studies on Taxonomy and Grouping of Pyrus Species
Authors: Terpó András
Published: August 2024

Author describes the development of sections of Pyrus species and comes forward with a suggestion for a new manner of grouping of species of the genus. Dealing with taxonomical revision of species he declares P. cordata Desv. — living in Western Europe — as a taxon on level of species. This species is not related to P. pyraster but to P. magyarica (Sect. Pashia) wich lives in Hungary.

A West European group of populations of P. pyraster can be distinguished on level of subspecies (subsp. achras). The overwhelming majority of wild pear populations living on Balkan which have pubescent, narrow obovate leaves belong to species P. slaronica (Syn.: P. bulgarica) described by Kitaibel. Author arranges in groups the Pyrus species on the basis of origin as well (autochton, escaped etc.).
Über das ökologische und soziologische Verhalten von Rhamnus cathartica L. und Frangula alnus Mill. in der planaren Stufe der DDR
Authors: Scamoni Alexis
Published: August 2024

Dir ökologschen und soziologischen Bedingungen von Rhamnus cathartica L. und Frangula alnus Mill. werden untersucht. Beide Arten weisen in dieser Hinsicht viele Unterschiede auf. Nur auf wenigen Standorten wachsen sie zusammen.
Sporenkeimung und Lebensstrategie der Pilze
Authors: Kreisel Hanns
Published: August 2024

Der Autor diskutiert die Bedingungen der Sporenkeimung bei Eumycota unter ökologischen Gesichtspunkten. Mehrere Phänomene wie Dormanz., Bedarf an exogenen Nährstoffen, Empfindlichkeit für Boden‐Fungistasis stehen in engem Zusammenhang mit der Lebensweise und den von Pugh (1980) in die Mykologie übernommenen Kategorien der Lebensstrategie. Jedoch ist das von Pugh hauptsächlich für saprophytische terrestriche Pilze entworfene zweidimensionale Schema nicht ausreichend, um die Mannigfaltigkeit pilzlicher Lebensstrategien auszudrücken.
A taxonomic study of Crataegus Ser. Kyrtostylae Pojark. ex Botschantzev in Europe
Authors: Christensen Knud Ib
Published: August 2024

The type species of Crataegus Ser. Kyrtostylae Pojark. ex Botschantzev — C. kyrtostyla sensu Pojark. — is revised. The correct binary name for this species is shown to be C. rosaeformis Janka. C. kyrtostyla Fingerh. is G. monogyna Jacq. (Ser. Monogynae Pojark. ex Botschantzev) × rosaeformis, i.e. a hybrid between two species of different series. It is, therefore, proposed to rename Ser. Kyrtostylae as Crataegus Ser. Rosaeformes K. I. Christ. nom. nov. C. rosaeformis is divided into two subspecies: ssp. rosaeformis (C. curvisepala Lindm.) and ssp. lindmanii (Hrab.‐Uhr.) K. I. Christ, comb. nov. (C. calycina Peterm. emend. Lindm., C. lindmanii Hrab.‐Uhr.). C. curvisepala var. aceriformis Hrab.‐Uhr. is transfered to C. × kyrtostyla Fingerh, (C. monogyna × rosaeformis) and C. domicensis Hrab.‐Uhr. is interpreted as C. monogyna × rosaeformis ssp. lindmanii (C. × kyrtostyla nothossp. domicensis (Hrab.‐Uhr.) and C. curvisepala ssp. colorata Hrab.‐Uhr. are referred to C. monogyna. C. plagiosepala Pojark. presumably represents a form of C. × kyrtostyla close to C. rosaeformis.
Vergleichende taxonomische Untersuchung von Vicia hirsuta (L.) S. F. Gray und Vicia meyeri Boiss.
Authors: Tersijski Dimitar , Delipavlov Dimitar
Published: August 2024

Es werden die Ergebnisse von vergleichenden taxonomischen Untersuchungen von den in Bulgarien vorkommenden Arten V. hirsuta und V. meyeri mitgeteilt. V. meyeri wird zum ersten Mal in der Flora Bulgariens und der Balkanhalbinsel nachgewiesen. Ziel der Untersuchung war die Klärung der taxonomischen Beziehungen zwischen beiden Arten. Durchgeführt wurde eine vergleichende Analyse der Morphologie der Nebenblätter, Blütenstände, Blüten, des Indumenta der Hülsen und Samen. Es wurden auch scanningelektronenmikroskopisch festgestellte Merkmale der Samen und der Karyotyp herangezogen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, daß beide Arten eng verwandt, morphologisch und biologisch jedoch gut charakterisiert sind.
Biogeozönologische Untersuchungen der Steppenwüsten und Wüstensteppen der nördlichen Gobi1)
Authors: Borisova I. V. , Popova T. A.
Published: August 2024

In den Steppenwüsten der nördlichen Gobi wurden 2 Biogeozönosen untersucht (die Steppenwüsten‐ und die Wüstensteppen biogeozönose), welche für die Pflanzendecke vom Somon Bulgan (Süd‐Gobi‐Aimak, MVR) typisch sind. Es wurden einzelne biogeozönotische Komponenten und ihre Wechselbeziehungen betrachtet, außerdem wurde eine vergleichende Analyse beider Biogeozönosen durchgeführt.

Es wurden folgende Komponenten der Biogeozönosen erforscht: Mikroklima (Luft‐ und Bodentemperatur, Niederschläge u. a.), Boden (vertikale und horizontale Struktur, mechanische und chemische Zusammensetzung, Humus‐, Nährstoff‐ und Karbonatgehalt, Bodenfeuchtigkeit u. a.), Phytozönose (floristische Zusammensetzung, Anzahl der Komponenten, phänologische Entwicklung, Produktivität, Samenproduktion und Zönopopulationen der wichtigsten Arten, Synusienstrukturen u. a.), Mikrobozönose (Zusammensetzung, Anzahl der Mikroorganismen u. a., Tiere (Säugetiere, Reptilien, bodenbewohnende Wirbellose, Zusammensetzung, ökologische und biologische Besonderheiten usw.). Es wurden für jede Komponente die Zusammensetzung ihrer Strukturelemente (rangmäßig) und funtionelle Zusammenhänge festgestellt. Die verschiedenen Komponenten wurden in unterschiedlichem Maße untersucht, was mit der Teilnahme von Fachleuten an den Untersuchungen und dem Entwicklungsgrad der entsprechenden Wissenschaften zusammenhängt. In der gegenwärtigen Periode der biogeozönotischen Untersuchung wird die weitere Synthese der Angaben durch diesen Umstand erschwert. Einige Wechselbeziehungen der biogeozönotischen Komponenten wurden trotzdem festgestellt. Das ermöglichte auch die Bestimmung einiger Besonderheiten der vertikalen und temporalen biogeozönotischen Strukturen (bzw. biogeozönotischen Horizonte und Saisonzustände und ihre Aufeinanderfolge). Die horizontale Struktur wurde dagegen nicht für alle biogeozönotischen Komponenten, sondern nur für Boden und Vegetation bestimmt. Die biologische Bodenaktivität diente bei der Untersuchung als ein integraler Index des wechselseitigen Zusammenhangs der einzelnen biogeozönotischen Komponenten.

Die vergleichende Untersuchung der Wüsten‐ und Steppenbiogeozönose zeigte, daß trotz einiger Ähnlichkeiten wesentliche Unterschiede bestehen.
Die Gebirgswaldsteppe des Ost‐Changai als Ökosystem1)
Authors: Bannikova Irina A.
Published: August 2024

Die Changai‐Wuldsteppe wird als ein kompliziertes offenes Biogeosysteni mit charakteristischer zellenariger Struktur betrachtet, das durch den Strukturplan des Gebirgsterritoriums sowie durch Gradienten der hydrothermischen Merkmale der dieses System bildenden ”Zellen“ determiniert ist. Die Ganzheit der Waldsteppe als ökologisches System wird durch die Verbundenheit zahlreicher sie bildender Biogeozönosen bestimmt, wobei diese Verbundenheit durch laterale Ströme des Stoffes gewährleistet wird, die als vertikale und horizontale Achsen eines räumlichen ”ökologischen Gitters” verlaufen. Die stoffliche und energetische Charakteristik der Biogeozönosen verändert sich gesetzmäßig längs der hydrothermischen Gradienten des Territoriums und widerspiegelt die Determiniertheit ihres Metabolismus durch Wasser‐Wärme‐Information der Gebirgs‐”Zellen“. Als Merkmal der Spezialisierung der Biogeozönosen hinsichtlich verschiedener Teile des hydrothermischen Gradienten wird die Biomasse und die Produktion verschiedener Pflanzengesellschaften betrachtet, die die Mosaikstruktur der Pflanzendecke der Waldsteppe im Ost‐Changai bilden.
Die Regelung des Wasserhaushalts der Pflanzen unter den ökologischen Bedingungen des Ost‐Changai (MVR)1)
Authors: Izmajlova N. N.
Published: August 2024

Die Untersuchungen zum Wasserhaushalt dominanter und charakteristischer Arten von Steppenpflanzengesellsehaften des Ost‐Changai zeigten individuelle Unterschiede in der Regelung des Wasserunisatzes der Pflanzen. Diese Unterschiede üben einen großen Einfluß auf die Widerstandskraft einer Art aus. Unter konkreten Umweltverhältnissen einer Phytozönose haben die größte Widerstandskraft die Arten mit der größten Variabilität der Wasserhaushaltskennwerte, besonders der Transpirationsintensität und des osmotischen Drucks des Zellsafts.

Die Regelung des Wasserumsatzes einer Pflanzengesellschaft wird durch verschiedene Regelungsmöglichkeiten der Pflanzen gesichert. Unter ungünstigen Umweltbedingungen erfolgt diese Regelung durch die Abnahme der Transpiration und des effektiven Wasserverbrauchs. Dies kommt durch die zunehmende Anzahl der gering transpirierenden Arten zustande. In den Steppenpflanzengesellschaften des Ost‐Changai sind es ausdauernde Horstgräser. Ihre Bedeutung für die entsprechenden Pflanzengesellschaften nimmt mit zunehmender Aridität der Standortsverhältnisse qualitativ und quantitativ zu.
Elevated care at home: An alternative to traditional levels of care
Authors: Downing Emily R. , Castro‐Pearson Sandra R. , Sidebottom Abbey C. , Sielaff Timothy D.
Published: August 2024

Background

Elevated care at home (ECH) is a novel in‐home care model supporting early hospital discharge and providing an alternative to institutional postacute care.

Objectives

This study compares patient characteristics, mortality, and readmission outcomes of hospitalized patients who transitioned to ECH to patients who transitioned to skilled nursing facilities (SNF) and skilled home health services (SHH).

Methods

A retrospective study of patients between May 2020 and January 2022 transitioned from the hospital to ECH, SNF, or SHH. The analysis compared patient characteristics, 30‐day mortality, and readmission stratified by COVID‐19 infection status. Outcomes were assessed using logistic regression after propensity score matching.

Results

Of 32,132 eligible patients, 6.3% were transitioned to ECH, 39.7% to SNF, and 54.0% to SHH. After matching, all baseline characteristics except for age were balanced between groups. Postmatch and adjusting for age differences, ECH patients experienced lower risk of death compared to SNF (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.40, 0.92) and similar risk of hospital readmission compared to SNF patients (AOR 1.08, 95% CI 0.89, 1.31) and SHH patients (AOR 0.96, 95% CI 0.80, 1.16). COVID‐19‐negative ECH patients compared to matched SNF patients were more likely to readmit (AOR 1.30, 95% CI 1.02, 1.65) with no significant difference in risk of mortality (AOR 0.72, 95% CI 0.44, 1.18).

Conclusions

ECH had similar or improved outcomes relative to SNF and SHH. COVID‐19‐negative ECH patients experienced higher readmissions relative to SNF. ECH supported patients to return home from the hospital and provided an alternative to an institutional postacute setting.
Lebensmittelchemie 2024
Authors: Hammann Simon , Meckelmann Sven W. , Maares Maria , Varga Elisabeth
Published: August 2024

Lebensmittelchemie schützt die Verbraucher und gewährleistet authentische, hochwertige und sichere Lebensmittel, Kosmetika und Bedarfsgegenstände. Dabei nimmt sie bewusst Perspektiven etwa der analytischen Chemie, der Ernährungswissenschaften oder der Ökotoxikologie ein. So entsteht ein immer feineres Bild, wie unsere Lebensmittel zusammengesetzt sind und wie ihre Inhaltsstoffe physiologisch wirken. Zudem rücken neue Kontaminanten in den Fokus, die aus den Rohstoffen stammen oder während Verarbeitung und Lagerung der Lebensmittel entstehen.
Festkörpersynthese im Mikrowellenofen
Authors: Birkel Christina , Kubitza Niels
Published: August 2024

Sind Festkörper einer Mikrowellenstrahlung ausgesetzt, passiert nichts bis sehr viel – abhängig von Form und Eigenschaften der Substanz. Festkörper, die sich effizient erwärmen, sind für die anorganische Chemie besonders spannend. Was geschieht beim Bestrahlen, wo liegen die Schwierigkeiten und wofür lassen sich die Prozesse nutzen?
Triplet‐triplet annihilation upconversion
Authors: Næsborg Line , Jeyaseelan Rubaishan
Published: August 2024

Triplet‐triplet annihilation upconversion can generate UV light from visible light LEDs and visible light from infrared. Producing higher‐energy photons at the location where they are needed is useful: some functional groups do not tolerate irradation with UV light, and visible light does not penetrate cells and polymers as deep as infrared light.
The Impact of Perceived Relationship Investment and Organizational Identification on Behavioral Outcomes in Nonprofit Organizations: The Moderating Role of Relationship Proneness
Authors: Lai Chi‐Shiun , Nguyen Duc Tam
Published: August 2024

The present study aims to explore how nonprofit organizations utilize relationship investment efforts to foster positive behavioral outcomes among their donors and volunteers, including word‐of‐mouth, support retention, and social media engagement, thereby ensuring the sustainability of these relationships. Findings from a survey of 210 participants reveal that donors' and volunteers' perceived social and economic investments positively influence their organizational identification with nonprofit organizations, leading to favorable behavioral outcomes. Additionally, this research examines the moderating role of relationship proneness in the association between perceived relationship investment and organizational identification. The results indicate that low relationship proneness strengthens the impact of perceived relationship investment on organizational identification. This study contributes to the existing literature on relationship investment and identification in nonprofit contexts, offering practical insights for managers. The implications for future research are discussed, along with acknowledgment of limitations.
Nanocatalyzed Multi‐Component Syntheses of Heterocyclic Scaffolds
Authors: Pathak Sakshi , Rushell Esha , Pathak Gargi , Verma Kanchan , Mathur Jaya , Shrivastava Rahul , Kumar Mahendra
Published: August 2024

The present article includes systematic update information with recent developments in nanocatalyzed organic transformations with the special emphasis on the use of nanostructured heterogeneous catalysts in multi‐component syntheses of structurally diverse drug‐like small molecules incorporating medicinally privileged heterocyclic systems. Moreover, the nanocatalyzed transformations included in the article are environmentally sustainable and will provide an access to a diverse range of heterocyclic scaffolds with the use of combinatorial chemistry in the presence of heterogeneous catalysts. The reaction mechanisms involving catalytic facilitation with the interaction of nanostructured catalysts with the reacting molecules have also been included. The nanocatalyzed multi‐component reactions included in the article will be important significantly for designing synthetic protocols to synthesize natural product mimetic scaffolds with privileged heterocyclic ring systems. Thus, the present review article will contribute considerably not only to the chemical research, especially organometallics, organic syntheses and catalyses, but also to the drug discovery research with the emphasis on pharmaceutical and medicinal research. The present review article presents a thorough and balanced view of the subject.
Iron‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks for Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Reactive Orange 16 Textile Dye
Authors: Özcan Elif , Zorlu Yunus
Published: August 2024

MIL‐88 MOFs have gained considerable attention as photocatalysts in environmental remediation due to their advantages such as stability, reusability, efficient light absorption, and charge separation capabilities. This study explores the potential of MIL‐88A, MIL‐88B, and NH2‐MIL‐88B for degrading the reactive orange 16 (RO16). MIL‐88 s were synthesized via solvo(hydro)thermal method and characterized using FTIR, PXRD, SEM, zeta potential, and UV‐DRS techniques. Photocatalytic degradations were conducted under UVA radiation, revealed a remarkable 93 % degradation rate. MIL‐88 s demonstrated exceptional performance and reusability, maintaining high efficiency even at 300 mg/L catalyst concentration. The photodegradation efficiencies of MIL‐88 A, MIL‐88B and NH2‐MIL‐88B for RO16 reach nearly 85 % within 120 minutes, 92 % within 60 minutes, 90 % within 75 minutes respectively. Even at a high initial concentration of 15 mg/L, the results underscore the significance of evaluating both initial efficiency and stability over multiple cycles, with MIL‐88B initially exhibiting the highest efficiency declining to 77 % by the fifth cycle, while MIL‐88 A maintained 54 % efficiency and NH2‐MIL‐88B sustained 72 % efficiency over the same period. Mechanistic elucidation identified O2⋅− and ⋅OH as the primary reactive radicals. This study is unique in being the first to explore the photocatalytic removal of RO16 using MIL‐88 s, providing a pioneering approach to sustainable water treatment.
Digitalisierung im Gesundheitswesen
Authors: Tag Brigitte
Published: August 2024

Gesundheitsbezogene Daten werden mit Hilfe von künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) gesammelt, verarbeitet, gespeichert. Anwendungsbeispiele finden sich zahlreiche, sie beziehen sich auf den gesamten Versorgungspfad und Lebenszyklus des Menschen sowie die Humanforschung. Die datengestützte Medizin soll die Versorgung auf ein neues Niveau anheben, Ärzte und Gesundheitsfachpersonen entlasten und die administrativen Prozesse effizienter gestalten. Die Länder sind mit unterschiedlicher Geschwindigkeit dabei, einheitliche, zeitgemässe Standards im Umgang mit den Gesundheitsdaten und der KI bereitzustellen. Beschleunigt und flankiert wird die Digitalisierung im Gesundheitswesen durch wegweisende europäische Regulierungen. Die “FAIR Priniciples” sollen dazu beitragen, einige der Herausforderungen zu lösen.
The Viennese dissection course—A model for Habsburg medical teaching (1787–1848)
Authors: Bauer Sophia , Schaukal Leo , Weninger Wolfgang J.
Published: August 2024

This article delves into the beginnings of the dissection course, a teaching practice which today is still in place in Vienna and continues to shape future medical practitioners. Based on a comparison of different historical sources the article shows that the Viennese tradition of a dissection course dates back to the 1780s and the initiative of the anatomist Joseph Barth to build a dissection institute and to implement a dissection course, two endeavors that coincided with Joseph II’s reform ideas regarding a practically orientated medical and surgical education and a Europe-wide practice turn. Additionally, this paper shows the role of the Viennese dissection course as model for other Habsburg universities and, thus, explains the similarities of today’s dissection courses in different former Habsburg universities.
Trends in NICE technology appraisals of non-small cell lung cancer drugs over the last decade
Authors: Westerink Lotte , Wolters Sharon , Zhou Guiling , Postma Arjan , Boersma Cornelis , van Boven Job Frank Martien , Postma Maarten Jacobus
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study is to analyse the trends in technology appraisals for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatments performed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) over the last ten years.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted for single technology appraisals of NSCLC drugs in the online NICE database from 2012 to 2022. Search terms used were ‘non small cell lung cancer’, and ‘NSCLC’. Appraisals that were under development or terminated as well as multiple technology appraisals were considered out of scope.

Results

In the 30 included appraisals for targeted therapies and immunotherapies within NSCLC, a total of 53 different comparators were included by NICE for 41 assorted indications or subgroups. Partitioned survival models were most frequently used, often including three health states and time horizons of up to 30 years. Throughout the decade the use of indirect comparisons was high and became more established and complex over time. Of all appraisals, 90% positively recommended the treatment for use in the UK.

Conclusion

Technology appraisals became more complex over time due to the emergence of targeted therapies and immunotherapies, leading to multiple different indications, subpopulations and comparators that needed to be included in appraisals. Partitioned Survival Analysis (PartSA) models became the cornerstone within NSCLC, with time horizons up to 30 years and over time methods for indirect treatment comparisons became more established. The majority of the appraisals resulted in a positive recommendation for reimbursement.
Association between the incident hypertension duration and cognitive performance in older adults: data from the NHANES 2011–2014
Authors: Liu Chunlei , Li Qi , Li Zhuqing , Wang Li , Wang Che , Du Xiaoyu , Song Wenjuan , Sun Xiaotong , Lu Chengzhi
Published: August 2024

Background

Established evidences have demonstrated that hypertension was associated with the cognitive impairment. But the associations between the duration of hypertension exposure and cognitive performance are still inconclusive.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess the association between the duration of hypertension diagnosis and cognitive performance in older adults by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011–2014).

Methods

To evaluate the relationship between the hypertension duration and cognitive performance, we conducted the logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, we also performed the Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis to assess the nonlinear relationship between the duration of exposure to hypertension and cognitive performance.

Results

Initially, total 19,931 participants were included in this study, and 2928 individuals were enrolled. With the increase of hypertension duration, more risk of cognitive impairment was observed in the Digit Symbol Substitution test (DSST) (OR = 1.012, 1.006–1.019), and a similar trend was observed in Animal Fluency test (AFT) (OR = 1.009,1.003–1.016). The RCS results showed that the hypertension duration pattern was linear associated with the risk of cognitive impairment in DDST (P for non–linearity = 0.758). Meanwhile, subgroups analysis of midlife hypertension, we revealed that linear association with the risk of cognitive impairment in DSST (P for non–linearity = 0.391) and CERAD (P for non–linearity = 0.849) among hypertension diagnose < 55 years populations.

Conclusion

Collectively, our finding indicates that longer duration of exposure to hypertension worsens the cognition performance, especially for middle-aged hypertension.
Bullying in Adolescence: Social Influence and Student Relationships
Authors: Stahel Tina , Moody Zoe , Darbellay Frédéric
Published: August 2024

This paper examines social influence among young people in bullying situations. Because of the importance of peers for adolescents, social influence is investigated with a specific focus on relationships that bystander students have with other peers, both existing ones and those they wish to develop. A total of 3,275 young participants (1,665 girls, 1,535 boys, and 75 others) between 10 and 17 years old engaged in the research through a mixed-method approach: 38 participated in focus groups, 7 in individual interviews, and 3,230 completed an online questionnaire. Qualitative findings, corroborated by quantitative data, reveal various forms of social influence, notably from bystanders aiming to integrate into peer groups where they lack privileged relationships with some members. Additionally, the quantitative analysis identifies a relatively novel form of popularity termed “functional popularity” observed in teenagers who foster and sustain social cohesion within their groups. Qualitative insights further indicate that intense, privileged relationships with victims can regulate social influence. These findings underscore the necessity of considering social influence dynamics and peer relationships when formulating strategies to address bullying.
Convergence and high order of approximation by Steklov sampling operators
Authors: Costarelli Danilo
Published: August 2024

In this paper we introduce a new class of sampling-type operators, named Steklov sampling operators. The idea is to consider a sampling series based on a kernel function that is a discrete approximate identity, and which constitutes a reconstruction process of a given signal f, based on a family of sample values which are Steklov integrals of order r evaluated at the nodes k/w, $$k \in {\mathbb {Z}}$$

k
∈
Z

, $$w>0$$

w
>
0

. The convergence properties of the introduced sampling operators in continuous functions spaces and in the $$L^p$$

L
p

-setting have been studied. Moreover, the main properties of the Steklov-type functions have been exploited in order to establish results concerning the high order of approximation. Such results have been obtained in a quantitative version thanks to the use of the well-known modulus of smoothness of the approximated functions, and assuming suitable Strang-Fix type conditions, which are very typical assumptions in applications involving Fourier and Harmonic analysis. Concerning the quantitative estimates, we proposed two different approaches; the first one holds in the case of Steklov sampling operators defined with kernels with compact support, its proof is substantially based on the application of the generalized Minkowski inequality, and it is valid with respect to the p-norm, with $$1 \le p \le +\infty $$

1
≤
p
≤
+
∞

. In the second case, the restriction on the support of the kernel is removed and the corresponding estimates are valid only for $$1 < p\le +\infty $$

1
<
p
≤
+
∞

. Here, the key point of the proof is the application of the well-known Hardy–Littlewood maximal inequality. Finally, a deep comparison between the proposed Steklov sampling series and the already existing sampling-type operators has been given, in order to show the effectiveness of the proposed constructive method of approximation. Examples of kernel functions satisfying the required assumptions have been provided.
Private sector trust in data sharing: enablers in the European Union
Authors: Bernal Jaime
Published: August 2024

Enabling private sector trust stands as a critical policy challenge for the success of the EU Data Governance Act and Data Act in promoting data sharing to address societal challenges. This paper attributes the widespread trust deficit to the unmanageable uncertainty that arises from businesses’ limited usage control to protect their interests in the face of unacceptable perceived risks. For example, a firm may hesitate to share its data with others in case it is leaked and falls into the hands of business competitors. To illustrate this impasse, competition, privacy, and reputational risks are introduced, respectively, in the context of three suboptimal approaches to data sharing: data marketplaces, data collaboratives, and data philanthropy. The paper proceeds by analyzing seven trust-enabling mechanisms comprised of technological, legal, and organizational elements to balance trust, risk, and control and assessing their capacity to operate in a fair, equitable, and transparent manner. Finally, the paper examines the regulatory context in the EU and the advantages and limitations of voluntary and mandatory data sharing, concluding that an approach that effectively balances the two should be pursued.
Enhancing student performance in African smart cities: a web-based approach through advanced ensemble modeling and genetic feature optimization
Authors: Sahlaoui Hayat , Abdellaoui Alaoui El Arbi , Hessane Abdelaaziz , Agoujil Said , Cédric Koumetio Tekouabou Stéphane , Barebzi Abdellah
Published: August 2024

In the burgeoning landscape of African smart cities, education stands as a cornerstone for sustainable development and unlocking future potential. Accurate student performance prediction holds immense social importance, enabling early intervention, improved learning outcomes, and equitable access to quality education, aligning with sustainable development goals. Traditional models often falter in Africa due to imbalanced datasets and irrelevant features. This research leverages machine learning in Nigerian classrooms to predict underperforming students. Techniques like synthetic minority oversampling, edited nearest neighbors, and the Boruta algorithm for feature selection, alongside genetic algorithms for efficiency, enhance model performance. The ensemble models achieve AUCs of 90–99.7%, effectively separating low-performing and high-performing students. Implemented via Streamlit and Heroku, these models support real-time, data-driven decisions, enhancing early intervention, personalized learning, and informing policy and public service design. This ensures equitable education and a brighter future across Africa. By leveraging ML, this research empowers universities to support struggling students, optimize educational costs, and promote inclusive development, fostering data-driven decision-making and resource allocation optimization. Ultimately, this research paves the way for a future where data empowers education within African smart cities, unlocking the full potential of data-driven solutions and ensuring equitable educational opportunities across the continent.
Towards a Catechetical Renewal in England
Authors: Boxer Charles
Published: August 2024

English Catholics today are facing a serious balance-of-payments crisis, Publishers’ lists carry a large number of translations of theological books from the continent, and it is hard to think of more than a handful of English theological works, except, of course, Newman's, which have been exported. Honest to God has just appeared in the German book-shops, and of course one can always buy the novels of Muriel Spark, Graham Greene, and Bruce Marshall. It will take some time before our imports stimulate a spirit of renewal strong enough to produce a comparable movement that can make its own export contribution. But the recent interest in imported books is a welcome sign of the breakdown of English isolationism.
St Dominic and the Love of the Brethren
Authors: Dowling Adrian
Published: August 2024

Stories told to illustrate the different spirits prevailing in Religious Orders are legion. One, that must have many variations, jibes at the Order of St Dominic for being coldly intellectual. Whatever foundation in fact can be discovered for these diverting little legends, it must be admitted that the founder of the Order himself was anything but cold. There is an abundance of detail from eye-witness accounts which glows with warmth—a warmth which proves, if any proof were needed, that if an intense intellectual activity dries up the heart it need not necessarily do so. The Lessons for the Commemoration of St Dominic in Suriano, for example, must make surprising reading for those for whom the name of St Dominic conjures up visions of a heartless inquisitor or even an absent-minded if holy professor. The people who knew him and indeed had to live with him, tell us a very different story, a story that is not a vague eulogizing, but one that is alive with human interest: that relates little incidents from personal reminiscence.
The Road to Peking
Authors: Cooper Michael
Published: August 2024

The name of St Francis Xavier is too well known to require any introduction in these pages, yet it is strange that Matteo Ricci, who took up the work interrupted by Xavier's premature death, remains comparatively unknown, even in Catholic circles. This may well be due to the cloud under which Ricci has been for so many years on account of his revolutionary approach to'the evangelization of the east; his apostolic methods among the Chinese gave great scope to his genius for adaptation, but like many other pioneers, Ricci had to pay the penalty of antagonism from those who were less farsighted. It is therefore gratifying to find the present Holy Father holding up Matteo Ricci as a model for all missionaries and thus finally vindicating his apostolic work which has been so widely misunderstood, both in Ricci's own day and also in ours.
Of the Study and use of Created Things
Authors: Prince J. F. T.
Published: August 2024

How then shall our thoughts be ordered in this matter of the Creation, and in what manner may we search as to the things which nature can accomplish? Let this be answered: that it is by the nature of Christ who, abounding in the fullness of his Godhead, hath all things done according to his Will, even the Will of his Father; by this standard alone and in no wise by the mere nature of the Universe, must we conduct ourselves. As in the sacred record, when he was seen to heal the leper and to pour new light upon the sightless, the people glorified not some course of medical cure, but, in astonishment at the power of the Lord, gave unto him only (as it is written) the glory, so even must we.
Man's Need of the Trinity
Authors: Radcliffe Fabian
Published: August 2024

All revelation is God's response to our needs. All his truth is saving truth. It answers to the needs of our salvation, of our healing and our health, health of soul and body, of mind and will, both here and in eternity. The truths which he has revealed are not like hurdles in a steeplechase, which are set to test us during the race, but which bear no other relation to the winning post and the prize. The man, well-known to readers of Frank Sheed's Theology and Sanity, who said of the Trinity that he ‘wished there were four of ‘em, that he might believe more of ‘em', no doubt had the purest faith and charity, but his words do not express the true Christian attitude. Again, none of the revealed truths is an optional extra, which can be embraced by a few specialists but is of no particular relevance to the ordinary Christian.
Newman's Singleness of Purpose
Authors: Dessain C. Stephen
Published: August 2024

My dear Fathers and Brothers, we have met here to discuss the relevance of Newman to the modern age, and we have prided ourselves, not without reason, that we have come to understand him better than many in the past. We have, however, been in some danger of forgetting what the essential aim of his life was, and what the fundamental lesson it teaches us. Yet these matters were thoroughly understood from the first, and clearly stated at the time of Newman's death, by two writers especially, neither of whom were Catholics.

The first biography to appear after Cardinal Newman died was that of R. H. Hutton, of The Spectator. It hailed him as the champion of revealed religion, and showed how this gave his life the wonderful unity which characterized it. Amid the many changes of his career, his one object, to which from the age of sixteen he was entirely devoted, was the promotion of faith in the Christian revelation. Certainly Hutton was right.
The Social Virtues
Authors: Simms E.
Published: August 2024

Let us proceed, in a very humdrum way, from the general to the particular. A word first, then about what virtue is. It is a perfection of our nature. It means, literally, strength. The Latin word virtus comes from vir, a man, and the basic idea is one of manliness or manhood, if the ladies will pardon so masculine an attitude; but manliness not so much distinguished from womanliness as from childishness. Virtue is the proper characteristic of the adult. The virtues are firmly rooted dispositions or habits or attitudes by which our faculties are given a bias towards the performance of good actions instead of bad actions—the faculties we are concerned with in the moral life being the will and the sense appetites, not the mind, except for the key virtue of prudence, of which more anon. Left to themselves the other faculties lack direction, and just dissipate their energies aimlessly.
Symbolism in the Middle English Religious Lyric
Authors: Varcoe William
Published: August 2024

Amongst the vast output of new records, usually calling for heavy financial outlay, are various ‘bargain’ discs which sacrifice nothing in the way of performance-polish or recording quality. Indeed, the Decca Ace of Clubs series is usually a jump or two ahead of most of its British counterparts in these matters and especially is this true of orchestral records, always a popular proposition.

Ansermet Favourites on ACL 37 is a case in point wherein Ansermet, conducting L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, invests Chabrier's Espana with the abandon which is its just due. To the same composer's Marche Joyeuse the Swiss conductor brings vitality and amply scaled dynamics. Ravel's intriguing Pavane pour une Enfante Defunte, with some really mellifluous horn-playing, and imaginative performances of two ever welcome works by Saint-Saëns—Danse Macabre andLe Rouet d'Omphale —complete this entertaining French concert. The record-jacket carries some informative and lucid programme-notes by Martin Cooper.