bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration adjustments to address bias in mortality analyses due to informative sampling—a census-linked survey analysis in Switzerland
Authors: Moser André , Bopp Matthias , Zwahlen Marcel ,   Swiss National Cohort study group
Published: February 2018

Background

Sampling bias, like survey participants’ nonresponse, needs to be adequately addressed in the analysis of sampling designs. Often survey weights will be calibrated on specific covariates related to the probability of selection and nonresponse to get representative population estimates. However, such calibrated survey (CS) weights are usually constructed for cross-sectional results, but not for longitudinal analyses. For example, when the outcome of interest is time to death, and sampling selection is related to time to death and censoring, sampling is informative. Then, unweighted or CS weighted inferential statistical analyses may be biased. In 2010, Switzerland changed from a decennial full enumeration census to a yearly registry-based (i.e., data from harmonised community registries) and a survey-based census system. In the present study, we investigated the potential bias due to informative sampling when time to death is the outcome of interest, using data from the new Swiss census system.

Methods

We analysed more than 6.5 million individuals aged 15 years or older from registry-based census data from years 2010 to 2013, linked with mortality records up to end of 2014. Out of this population, a target sample of 3.5% was sampled from the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (SFSO) in a stratified yearly micro census. The SFSO calculated CS weights to enable representative population estimates from the micro census. We additionally constructed inverse probability (IP) weights, where we used survival information in addition to known sampling covariates. We compared CS and IP weighted mortality rates (MR) and life expectancy (LE) with estimates from the underlying population. Additionally, we performed a simulation study under different sampling and nonresponse scenarios.

Results

We found that individuals who died in 2011, had a 0.67 (95% CI [0.64–0.70]) times lower odds of participating in the 2010 micro census, using a multivariable logistic regression model with covariates age, gender, nationality, civil status, region and survival information. IP weighted MR were comparable to estimates from the total population, whereas CS weighted MR underestimated the population MR in general. The IP weighted LE estimates at age 30 years for men were 50.9 years (95% CI [50.2–51.6] years), whereas the CS weighted overestimated LE by 2.5 years. Our results from the simulation study confirmed that IP weighted models are comparable to population estimates.

Conclusion

Mortality analyses based on the new Swiss survey-based census system may be biased, because of informative sampling. We conclude that mortality analyses based on census-linked survey data have to be carefully conducted, and if possible, validated by registry information to allow for unbiased interpretation and generalisation.
Projected Changes in the Asian‐Australian Monsoon Region in 1.5°C and 2.0°C Global‐Warming Scenarios
Authors: Chevuturi Amulya , Klingaman Nicholas P. , Turner Andrew G. , Hannah Shaun
Published: February 2018

In light of the Paris Agreement, it is essential to identify regional impacts of half a degree additional global warming to inform climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. We investigate the effects of 1.5°C and 2.0°C global warming above preindustrial conditions, relative to present day (2006–2015), over the Asian‐Australian monsoon region (AAMR) using five models from the Half a degree Additional warming, Prognosis and Projected Impacts (HAPPI) project. There is considerable intermodel variability in projected changes to mean climate and extreme events in 2.0°C and 1.5°C scenarios. There is high confidence in projected increases to mean and extreme surface temperatures over AAMR, as well as more‐frequent persistent daily temperature extremes over East Asia, Australia, and northern India with an additional 0.5°C warming, which are likely to occur. Mean and extreme monsoon precipitation amplify over AAMR, except over Australia at 1.5°C where there is uncertainty in the sign of the change. Persistent daily extreme precipitation events are likely to become more frequent over parts of East Asia and India with an additional 0.5°C warming. There is lower confidence in projections of precipitation change than in projections of surface temperature change. These results highlight the benefits of limiting the global‐mean temperature change to 1.5°C above preindustrial, as the severity of the above effects increases with an extra 0.5°C warming.
High‐Latitude Neutral Density Structures Investigated by Utilizing Multi‐Instrument Satellite Data and NRLMSISE‐00 Simulations
Authors: Horvath Ildiko , Lovell Brian C.
Published: February 2018

This study investigates various types of neutral density features developed in the cusp region during magnetically active and quiet times. Multi‐instrument Challenging Minisatellite Payload data provide neutral density, electron temperature, neutral wind speed, and small‐scale field‐aligned current (SS‐FAC) values. Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment neutral density data are also employed. During active times, cusp densities or density spikes appeared with their underlying flow channels (FCs) and enhanced SS‐FACs implying upwelling, fueled by Joule heating, within/above FCs. Both the moderate nightside cusp enhancements under disturbed conditions and the minor dayside cusp enhancements under quiet conditions developed without any underlying FC and enhanced SS‐FACs implying the role of particle precipitation in their development. Observations demonstrate the relations of FCs, density spikes, and upwelling‐related divergent flows and their connections to the underlying (1) dayside magnetopause reconnection depositing magnetospheric energy into the high‐latitude region and (2) Joule heating‐driven disturbance dynamo effects. Results provide observational evidence that the moderate nightside cusp enhancements and the minor dayside cusp enhancements detected developed due to direct heating by weak particle precipitation. Chemical compositions related to the dayside density spike and low cusp densities are modeled by Naval Research Laboratory Mass Spectrometer Incoherent Scatter Radar Extended 2000. Modeled composition outputs for the dayside density spike's plasma environment depict some characteristic upwelling signatures. Oppositely, in the case of low dayside cusp densities, composition outputs show opposite characteristics due to the absence of upwelling.
Microseismic Monitoring of Stimulating Shale Gas Reservoir in SW China: 2. Spatial Clustering Controlled by the Preexisting Faults and Fractures
Authors: Chen Haichao , Meng Xiaobo , Niu Fenglin , Tang Youcai , Yin Chen , Wu Furong
Published: February 2018

Microseismic monitoring is crucial to improving stimulation efficiency of hydraulic fracturing treatment, as well as to mitigating potential induced seismic hazard. We applied an improved matching and locating technique to the downhole microseismic data set during one treatment stage along a horizontal well within the Weiyuan shale gas play inside Sichuan Basin in SW China, resulting in 3,052 well‐located microseismic events. We employed this expanded catalog to investigate the spatiotemporal evolution of the microseismicity in order to constrain migration of the injected fluids and the associated dynamic processes. The microseismicity is generally characterized by two distinctly different clusters, both of which are highly correlated with the injection activity spatially and temporarily. The distant and well‐confined cluster (cluster A) is featured by relatively large‐magnitude events, with ~40 events of M −1 or greater, whereas the cluster in the immediate vicinity of the wellbore (cluster B) includes two apparent lineations of seismicity with a NE‐SW trending, consistent with the predominant orientation of natural fractures. We calculated the b‐value and D‐value, an index of fracture complexity, and found significant differences between the two seismicity clusters. Particularly, the distant cluster showed an extremely low b‐value (~0.47) and D‐value (~1.35). We speculate that the distant cluster is triggered by reactivation of a preexisting critically stressed fault, whereas the two lineations are induced by shear failures of optimally oriented natural fractures associated with fluid diffusion. In both cases, the spatially clustered microseismicity related to hydraulic stimulation is strongly controlled by the preexisting faults and fractures.
Separation of Diamagnetic and Paramagnetic Fabrics Reveals Strain Directions in Carbonate Rocks
Authors: Issachar R. , Levi T. , Marco S. , Weinberger R.
Published: February 2018

We present a new procedure for separating magnetic fabrics in coccolith‐bearing chalk samples, demonstrated in the case studies of three sites located within the Dead Sea Fault (DSF) plate boundary. The separation is achieved by combining measurements of room temperature and low‐temperature anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (RT‐AMS and LT‐AMS, respectively) with anisotropy of anhysteretic remanence magnetization (AARM). The LT‐AMS, measured at ~77 K, enhances the fabric of paramagnetic clay minerals. The AARM represents the fabric of ferromagnetic Fe oxides. By subtracting the paramagnetic and ferromagnetic fabrics from the RT‐AMS, the diamagnetic fabric is separated. In the studied samples, we found that the ferromagnetic contribution to the bulk magnetic fabric is negligible and could be excluded from the subtraction procedure. Our analysis indicates that in chalks with a negligible ferromagnetic contribution, diamagnetic fabric predominates the rock bulk magnetic fabric, if the mean susceptibility is <−6 × 10−6 SI, whereas with a mean susceptibility >11 × 10−6 SI, paramagnetic fabric predominates. In the studied rocks, the paramagnetic clay minerals preserve the original depositional fabric, whereas the diamagnetic minerals show a tectonic fabric. We propose a mechanism by which coccolith rotation under tectonic strain contributes to the development of the diamagnetic fabric parallel to the shortening direction. We infer that the diamagnetic fabrics of the studied rocks indicate strain regime of approximately N‐S horizontal shortening near strands of the DSF system. This suggests a deflection of the regional principal strain axes near the DSF. The diamagnetic fabric is more sensitive to tectonic strain than paramagnetic fabric in chalks and provides a valuable strain indicator near major faults.
Collisional Processes in the Crust of the Northern Tien Shan Inferred From Velocity and Attenuation Tomography Studies
Authors: Sychev Ilya V. , Koulakov Ivan , Sycheva Nailia A. , Koptev Alexander , Medved Irina , El Khrepy Sami , Al‐Arifi Nasir
Published: February 2018

Based on seismic data from existing seismic networks in Kyrgyzstan, we have constructed new crustal models of seismic velocity and attenuation for P and S wave s beneath the Kyrgyz Tien Shan. With data from more than 6,000 events recorded by the international KNET network, the most detailed structures were detected in the central‐northern part of the study region, where the Kazakh Shield collides with the northern Tien Shan. The independently computed 3‐D distributions of P and S wave attenuation show features that are consistent with the main structural elements. The high‐attenuation areas correspond to folded areas of the northern Tien Shan, whereas the partitions of the stable Kazakh Shield and the Issyk Kul block match with the low‐attenuation areas. The velocity model reveals some structures that help to determine the details of the collision processes in the northern Tien Shan. In the upper crust, we observe the alternation of several higher‐ and lower‐velocity anomalies that likely represent the interaction of brittle and ductile crustal layers of the collided Kazakh and Tien Shan plates. In deeper sections, both P and S wave velocity models show a prominent low‐velocity anomaly just beneath the northern boundary of Tien Shan. We propose that this anomaly represents an anomalous crustal thickening at the point of underthrusting of the Kazakh Plate beneath Tien Shan.
Permeability Variations Associated With Fault Reactivation in a Claystone Formation Investigated by Field Experiments and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Jeanne Pierre , Guglielmi Yves , Rutqvist Jonny , Nussbaum Christophe , Birkholzer Jens
Published: February 2018

We studied the relation between rupture and changes in permeability within a fault zone intersecting the Opalinus Clay formation at 300 m depth in the Mont Terri Underground Research Laboratory (Switzerland). A series of water injection experiments were performed in a borehole straddle interval set within the damage zone of the main fault. A three‐component displacement sensor allowed an estimation of the displacement of a minor fault plane reactivated during a succession of step rate pressure tests. The experiment reveals that the fault hydromechanical (HM) behavior is different from one test to the other with varying pressure levels needed to trigger rupture and different slip behavior under similar pressure conditions. Numerical simulations were performed to better understand the reason for such different behavior and to investigate the relation between rupture nucleation, permeability change, pressure diffusion, and rupture propagation. Our main findings are as follows: (i) a rate frictional law and a rate‐and‐state permeability law can reproduce the first test, but it appears that the rate constitutive parameters must be pressure dependent to reproduce the complex HM behavior observed during the successive injection tests; (ii) almost similar ruptures can create or destroy the fluid diffusion pathways; (iii) a too high or too low diffusivity created by the main rupture prevents secondary rupture events from occurring whereas “intermediate” diffusivity favors the nucleation of a secondary rupture associated with the fluid diffusion. However, because rupture may in certain cases destroy permeability, this succession of ruptures may not necessarily create a continuous hydraulic pathway.
Improving Remote Sensing of Aerosol Microphysical Properties by Near‐Infrared Polarimetric Measurements Over Vegetated Land: Information Content Analysis
Authors: Hou Weizhen , Li Zhengqiang , Wang Jun , Xu Xiaoguang , Goloub Philippe , Qie Lili
Published: February 2018

While polarimetric measurements contain valuable information regarding aerosol microphysical properties, polarization data in the near‐infrared (NIR) bands have not been widely utilized. This paper evaluates whether the aerosol property information contents from single‐viewing satellite polarimetric measurements at 1,610 and 2,250 nm can be used to improve the retrieval of aerosol parameters over vegetated land, in combination with shorter‐wavelength bands (490, 670, and 870 nm). The a priori information and errors for the analysis are derived by assuming that the surface reflectance at visible wavelengths can be derived from the top of atmosphere at 2,250 nm. The information content in the synthetic data set is investigated for 10 aerosol parameters characterizing the columnar aerosol volumes (
and
), particle size distributions (
,
,
, and
), and refractive indices (
,
,
, and
) for the fine‐ and coarse‐mode aerosol models, respectively, and one parameter C characterizing the surface polarization. The results indicate that the degrees of freedom for signal can be increased by at least 2 with the addition of NIR measurements and that one to three additional parameters could be further retrieved with significantly decreased uncertainties. In addition, the 1,610 nm band is necessary for the simultaneous retrieval of
,
, and
for the fine mode dominated aerosols, while the 1,610 and 2,250 nm bands are both indispensable for retrieving
,
,
,
, and
in tandem for the coarse mode dominated aerosols. The analysis also reveals that C could be further retrieved by including scalar radiance and that measurement errors have significantly larger influences on the retrieval uncertainties than model errors.
Changes in Atmospheric Butanes and Pentanes and Their Isomeric Ratios in the Continental United States
Authors: Rossabi Sam , Helmig Detlev
Published: February 2018

Nonmethane hydrocarbons have been used as tracers in research on emissions and atmospheric oxidation chemistry. This research investigates source region mixing ratio trends of the nonmethane hydrocarbons i‐butane, n‐butane, i‐pentane, and n‐pentane, and the (i/n) isomeric ratios of these compounds between 2001 and 2015. Data collected at Photochemical Assessment Monitoring Stations, mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in ozone nonattainment areas, and data collected at Global Greenhouse Gas Reference Network sites within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration network, and analyzed at the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research at the University of Colorado‐Boulder, were examined. Among all considered species, linear regression analyses on concentration time series had negative slopes at 81% of sites, indicating predominantly declining butane and pentane atmospheric concentrations. Mostly negative slopes (78% of sites) were found for the (i/n) butane and pentane isomeric ratios, including all six and seven statistically significant (i/n) butane and pentane trends, respectively. Over the ~15 year investigation period and averaged over all sites, total relative changes were ~30 and 45% for the (i/n) ratios of butanes and pentanes, respectively, with a relative increase in the prominence of the n‐isomers. Most likely causes include changing isomeric ratios in gasoline sector emissions, and increasing influence of oil and natural gas industry emissions. Changes in concentrations and isomeric ratios depend on proximity of contributing emission sources to measurement sites.
Experience and Context Shape Patient and Clinician Goals For Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Barton Jennifer L. , Hulen Elizabeth , Schue Allison , Yelin Edward H. , Ono Sarah S. , Tuepker Anais , Koenig Christopher J.
Published: February 2018

Objective

Alignment of patient and clinician goals, which is central to effective patient‐centered care, has been linked to improved patient experience and outcomes but has not been explored in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this study was to analyze goal conceptualization among RA patients and clinicians.

Methods

Seven focus groups and 1 semi‐structured interview were conducted with RA patients and clinicians who were recruited from 4 rheumatology clinics. An interview guide was developed to explore goal concordance related to RA treatment. Researchers utilized a concurrent deductive‐inductive data analysis approach.

Results

Nineteen patients (mean age 55 years, 74% female, 32% non‐white, and 26% Spanish‐speaking) and 18 clinicians (44% trainees, 44% female, 28% non‐white) participated. Across clinician and patient focus groups, the 2 identified domains were patient knowledge of RA and psychosocial dynamics (stress) in RA treatment. Within the knowledge domain, 3 themes emerged: RA knowledge for informed choice, RA knowledge to ensure adherence and medication safety, and clinician assumption of patient inability to interpret information. Within the second domain of RA and stress, 2 themes emerged: patient illness experience informs treatment context in ways that are not shared by clinicians, and the impact of patient‐clinician communication and decision‐making on goal concordance.

Conclusion

Knowledge is a shared goal, but RA patients and clinicians hold divergent attitudes towards this goal. While knowledge is integral to self‐management and effective shared decision‐making, mismatches in attitudes may lead to suboptimal communication. Tools to support patient goal–directed RA care may promote high quality patient‐centered care and result in reduced disparities.
From Early Radiographic Knee Osteoarthritis to Joint Arthroplasty: Determinants of Structural Progression and Symptoms
Authors: Roemer Frank W. , Kwoh C. Kent , Fujii Tomoko , Hannon Michael J. , Boudreau Robert M. , Hunter David J. , Eckstein Felix , John Markus R. , Guermazi Ali
Published: February 2018

Objective

To assess structural progression in knees with no/mild radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) (i.e., Kellgren/Lawrence [K/L] grades 0–2) that will undergo knee replacement during a 5‐year period; to assess differences in structural damage on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in knees with no/mild radiographic OA versus those with severe radiographic OA (i.e., K/L grades 3 and 4) at baseline; and to assess differences in pain levels between those groups.

Methods

All participants who underwent knee replacement from baseline to 60 months were drawn from the Osteoarthritis Initiative. MRIs were assessed for bone marrow lesions (BMLs), Hoffa synovitis, and effusion synovitis (i.e., hyperintensity signal changes in the fat pad and abnormal amount of capsular distension due to intraarticular joint fluid and/or synovial thickening) at baseline and at the time point before knee replacement (T0). The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) pain were used for pain characterization. WOMAC activities of daily living and KOOS quality of life were applied to characterize functional status of the included participants. Logistic regression was used to assess the association of no/mild radiographic OA with these MRI features and pain.

Results

Based on inclusion criteria, 181 knees were selected. Participants were predominantly female (57.8%) with a mean age of 64.4 years. A total of 51 knees (28.2%) had no/mild radiographic OA at baseline. Of these, 51.0% progressed to severe radiographic OA. No/mild radiographic OA knees showed higher odds of BMLs in the patellofemoral joint at baseline (odds ratio [OR] 7.92 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 3.45–18.16]) and T0 (OR 9.44 [95% CI 4.00–22.28]) compared to severe radiographic OA knees. In addition, no/mild radiographic OA knees were associated with change from no pain to pain from baseline to T0 (adjusted OR 5.48 [95% CI 1.25–24.00]).

Conclusion

More than half of the knees with no/mild radiographic OA before knee replacement progressed to severe radiographic OA during 4 years of follow‐up. BMLs in the patellofemoral joint were more often seen among knees that had no/mild radiographic OA. Worsening pain status may contribute to knee replacement in knees with no/mild radiographic OA.
Natural history and genotype‐phenotype correlations in 72 individuals with SATB2‐associated syndrome
Authors: Zarate Yuri A. , Smith‐Hicks Constance L. , Greene Carol , Abbott Mary‐Alice , Siu Victoria M. , Calhoun Amy R. U. L. , Pandya Arti , Li Chumei , Sellars Elizabeth A. , Kaylor Julie , Bosanko Katherine , Kalsner Louisa , Basinger Alice , Slavotinek Anne M. , Perry Hazel , Saenz Margarita , Szybowska Marta , Wilson Louise C. , Kumar Ajith , Brain Caroline , Balasubramanian Meena , Dubbs Holly , Ortiz‐Gonzalez Xilma R. , Zackai Elaine , Stein Quinn , Powell Cynthia M. , Schrier Vergano Samantha , Britt Allison , Sun Angela , Smith Wendy , Bebin E. Martina , Picker Jonathan , Kirby Amelia , Pinz Hailey , Bombei Hannah , Mahida Sonal , Cohen Julie S. , Fatemi Ali , Vernon Hilary J. , McClellan Rebecca , Fleming Leah R. , Knyszek Brittney , Steinraths Michelle , Velasco Gonzalez Cruz , Beck Anita E. , Golden‐Grant Katie L. , Egense Alena , Parikh Aditi , Raimondi Chantalle , Angle Brad , Allen William , Schott Suzanna , Algrabli Adi , Robin Nathaniel H. , Ray Joseph W. , Everman David B. , Gambello Michael J. , Chung Wendy K.
Published: February 2018

SATB2‐associated syndrome (SAS) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by significant neurodevelopmental disabilities with limited to absent speech, behavioral issues, and craniofacial anomalies. Previous studies have largely been restricted to case reports and small series without in‐depth phenotypic characterization or genotype‐phenotype correlations. Seventy two study participants were identified as part of the SAS clinical registry. Individuals with a molecularly confirmed diagnosis of SAS were referred after clinical diagnostic testing. In this series we present the most comprehensive phenotypic and genotypic characterization of SAS to date, including prevalence of each clinical feature, neurodevelopmental milestones, and when available, patient management. We confirm that the most distinctive features are neurodevelopmental delay with invariably severely limited speech, abnormalities of the palate (cleft or high‐arched), dental anomalies (crowding, macrodontia, abnormal shape), and behavioral issues with or without bone or brain anomalies. This comprehensive clinical characterization will help clinicians with the diagnosis, counseling and management of SAS and help provide families with anticipatory guidance.
Pechmann Dye‐Based Molecules Containing Fluorobenzene Moieties for Ambipolar Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Luo Hewei , Dong Xiaobiao , Cai Zhengxu , Wang Lizhen , Liu Zitong
Published: February 2018

Two hybrid A2‐D‐A1‐D‐A2 (A=acceptor, D=donor) molecules, that is, (E)‐5,5′‐bis[5‐(4‐fluorophenyl)thiophen‐2‐yl]‐1,1′‐dioctyl‐[3,3′‐bipyrrolylidene]‐2,2′(1H,1′H)‐dione (FBBPD) and (E)‐1,1′‐dioctyl‐5,5′‐bis[5‐(3,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)thiophen‐2‐yl]‐[3,3′‐bipyrrolylidene]‐2,2′(1H,1′H)‐dione (TFBBPD), were synthesized and characterized. Each of these compounds contain the Pechmann dye derivative (E)‐[3,3′‐bipyrrolylidene]‐2,2′(1H,1′H)‐dione (BPD) as the electron‐accepting core, which is flanked by an electron‐donor moiety (i.e., thiophene) and other electron acceptors (i.e., 4‐fluorobenzene or 3,4,5‐trifluorobenzene). Organic field‐effect transistor (OFET) results of FBBPD show ambipolar properties with electron (μemax) and hole mobilities (μhmax) up to 0.20 and 0.023 cm2 V−1 s−1, respectively. In comparison, the electron and hole mobilities of the OFET based on TFBBPD, which contains a more electron‐accepting moiety, are higher (μemax=0.58 cm2 V−1 s−1 and μhmax=0.054 cm2 V−1 s−1). X‐ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy studies were carried out to investigate the variations in the mobilities. Overall, these studies show the potential of BPD in hybrid D‐A molecules to act as the electron‐acceptor moiety in organic semiconducting studies.
SNOT‐22–based clusters in chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis exhibit distinct endotypic and prognostic differences
Authors: Lal Devyani , Hopkins Claire , Divekar Rohit D.
Published: February 2018

Background

Endotypic and prognosticating features of chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP) are poorly understood. Our objectives were to use an unbiased symptom‐based approach to: (1) study symptoms, clinical and endotypic features; and (2) identify features predicating outcomes from endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Methods

Clinical, computed tomography (CT), histopathology, and 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) data was collected on 146 adult CRSsNP patients who underwent ESS. Unsupervised network modeling of presurgical SNOT‐22 scores was performed to classify symptom‐based clusters. Subject characteristics and post‐ESS SNOT‐22 scores were compared between clusters.

Results

Baseline characteristics of the subject population were as follows: females, 56.2%; revision ESS status in 35%; asthma prevalence, 32.6%; median Lund‐Mackay CT score, 8; and median SNOT‐22 total score, 43. Network mapping and unsupervised clustering of preoperative SNOT‐22 scores revealed 4 clusters: (A) severely burdened with high scores in all 4 subdomains; (B) moderately burdened with high scores in the rhinologic subdomain; (C) moderately burdened with high scores in psychological‐sleep subdomains; and (D) mildly burdened. The number of previous ESS and asthma prevalence differed significantly between clusters; CT scores were similar. Asthma burden and tissue eosinophilia were greatest in cluster A (p = 0.03). All groups showed significant improvement at 3 months post‐ESS (p < 0.0001). At 6 months, patients in cluster C tended to worsen.

Conclusion

SNOT‐22–based network modeling of CRSsNP patients yielded 4 clusters with distinct features. Asthma prevalence and tissue eosinophilia were highest in the cluster with highest SNOT‐22 scores. All patients showed significant improvement from ESS at 3 months; those with high sleep‐psychosocial symptoms tended to show worsening at 6 months.
Reversible Wasserstoffaktivierung durch einen Pyridonat‐Boran‐Komplex: Ein Zusammenspiel von frustrierter Lewis‐Paar‐Reaktivität und Bor‐Liganden‐Kooperation
Authors: Gellrich Urs
Published: February 2018

Ein Pyridon‐Boran‐Komplex, der unter milden Bedingungen Wasserstoff abspaltet, wird beschrieben. Die umgekehrte Reaktion, Wasserstoffaktivierung durch den gebildeten Pyridonat‐Boran‐Komplex, wird unter moderatem H2‐Druck (2 bar) und bei Raumtemperatur beobachtet. DFT‐ und DLPNO‐CCSD(T)‐Rechnungen zeigen, dass es sich bei der aktiven Form des Pyridonat‐Boran‐Komplexes um ein Boroxypyridin handelt, das als frustriertes Lewis‐Paar betrachtet werden kann. Bemerkenswert ist die Umwandlung des Boroxypyridins zu einem neutralen Pyridonliganden im Zuge der H2‐Aktivierung. In Analogie zum Konzept der Metall‐Liganden‐Kooperation kann diese neuartige Funktionsweise als Bor‐Liganden‐Kooperation beschrieben werden.
A Manganese Nanosheet: New Cluster Topology and Catalysis
Authors: Chakraborty Uttam , Reyes‐Rodriguez Efrain , Demeshko Serhiy , Meyer Franc , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel
Published: February 2018

While the coordination chemistry of monometallic complexes and the surface characteristics of larger metal particles are well understood, preparations of molecular metallic nanoclusters remain a great challenge. Discrete planar metal clusters constitute nanoscale snapshots of cluster growth but are especially rare owing to the strong preference for three‐dimensional structures and rapid aggregation or decomposition. A simple ligand‐exchange procedure has led to the formation of a novel heteroleptic Mn6 nanocluster that crystallized in an unprecedented flat‐chair topology and exhibited unique magnetic and catalytic properties. Magnetic susceptibility studies documented strong electronic communication between the manganese ions. Reductive activation of the molecular Mn6 cluster enabled catalytic hydrogenations of alkenes, alkynes, and imines.
Reversible Hydrogen Activation by a Pyridonate Borane Complex: Combining Frustrated Lewis Pair Reactivity with Boron‐Ligand Cooperation
Authors: Gellrich Urs
Published: February 2018

A pyridone borane complex that liberates dihydrogen under mild conditions is described. The reverse reaction, dihydrogen activation by the formed pyridonate borane complex, is achieved under moderate H2 pressure (2 bar) at room temperature. DFT and DLPNO‐CCSD(T) computations reveal that the active form of the pyridonate borane complex is a boroxypyridine that can be described as a single component frustrated Lewis pair (FLP). Significantly, the boroxypyridine undergoes a chemical transformation to a neutral pyridone donor ligand in the course of the hydrogen activation. This unprecedented mode of action may thus, in analogy to metal‐ligand cooperation, be regarded as an example of boron‐ligand cooperation.
Fly ash supported photocatalytic nanocomposite poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/TiO2 for azo dye removal under simulated solar irradiation
Authors: Katančić Zvonimir , Gavran Iva , Smolković Josipa , Hrnjak‐Murgić Zlata
Published: February 2018

The main objective of this study was to develop a supported photocatalyst for wastewater treatment with extended efficiency under solar light. For that purpose titanium dioxide (TiO2) was immobilized by sol–gel synthesis on the surface of the waste fly ash (FA). On such prepared composite material, conductive polymer poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) was grafted by in situ chemical oxidative polymerization with different oxidants, ammonium persulfate (APS), and iron(III) chloride, FeCl3. Characterization was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and gas sorption analysis. Photocatalytic activity of composite photocatalyst was evaluated by testing removal efficiency of C.I. Reactive Red 45 (RR45) azo dye in three consecutive photocatalytic cycles under different pH. Discoloration of RR45 was measured using UV/Vis spectroscopy. It was determined that oxidant type plays major role in structure of composite as sample synthesized with APS had higher fraction of polymer and largest pore volume. The same composite had much better photocatalytic efficiency than sample synthesized with FeCl3 oxidant. It was also determined that there is a very strong adsorption of dye molecules on the surface of photocatalyst that quickly causes saturation of photocatalyst and efficiency drop after first cycle. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46316.
Institutional pressure, knowledge acquisition and a firm's environmental innovation
Authors: Liao Zhongju
Published: February 2018

Based on institution theory, resource‐based theory and innovation theory, this study proposes a framework to investigate how institutional pressure affects environmental innovation through the mediating role of knowledge acquisition. In total, 263 firms in the Chinese manufacturing industry were selected as the research sample, and a structural equation model was used to examine the mediating role of knowledge acquisition between regulative pressure, normative pressure, cognitive pressure and the firm's environmental innovation. The results showed that regulative pressure and normative pressure had positive effects on the firm's environmental innovation, whereas the effect of cognitive pressure was not significant. In addition, knowledge acquisition positively promoted environmental innovation, and played a mediating role between regulative pressure, normative pressure and environmental innovation. Finally, this paper provides suggestions for government policy‐makers and managers to promote environmental innovation.
Ionic Conductivity of Ruddlesden‐Popper Layered Perovskites (Li2SrTa2O7, Li2SrNb2O7, and Li2CaTa2O7) with Poly (ethylene oxide) as a Composite Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Ramakrishnan Prakash , Kwak Hunho , Cho Yoon‐Ho , Kim Jae Hyun
Published: February 2018

We report the ionic conductivity studies of three different Ruddlesden‐Popper layered perovskite (RP‐LP) materials (Li2SrTa2O7, Li2SrNb2O7, and Li2CaTa2O7) in composites with poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO). For the first time, the lithium‐ion conduction pathway in the RP‐LP materials, of n=2 in AnA′BnO3n+1 general crystal structure, have been studied by using bond valence sum mapping. The results show a two‐dimensional lithium‐ion pathway. The temperature dependence of the conductivity is modelled by using a Vogel−Tamman−Fulcher (VTF)‐type relationship for PEO RP‐LP and pure PEO samples. The PEO RP‐LP composites deliver ionic conductivities in the range of 3.32 to 4.09×10−06 σ cm−2 at 80 °C, and their corresponding activation energies range from 6.37 to 7.01 kJ mol−1 at the calculated temperature slope range of 50 to 80 °C. They also deliver appreciable lithium transference numbers in the range of 0.20 to 0.58 at 30 °C and an excellent wide potential window stability of 4 V.
A Moisture‐Stable 3D Microporous CoII‐Metal–Organic Framework with Potential for Highly Selective CO2 Separation under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Chand Santanu , Pal Arun , Das Madhab C.
Published: February 2018

Selective adsorption and separation of CO2 from flue gas and landfill gas mixtures have drawn great attention in industry. Porous MOF materials are promising alternatives to achieve such separations; however, the stability in the presence of moisture must be taken into consideration. Herein, we have constructed a microporous metal–organic framework (MOF) {[Co(OBA)(L)0.5]⋅S}n (IITKGP‐8), by employing a V‐shaped organic linker with an azo‐functionalized N,N′ spacer forming a 3D network with mab topology and 1D rhombus‐shaped channels along the crystallographic ‘b’ axis with a void volume of 34.2 %. The activated MOF reveals a moderate CO2 uptake capacity of 55.4 and 26.5 cm3 g−1 at 273 and 295 K/1 bar, respectively, whereas it takes up a significantly lower amount of CH4 and N2 under similar conditions and thus exhibits its potential for highly selective sorption of CO2 with excellent IAST selectivity of CO2/N2 (106 at 273 K and 43.7 at 295 K) and CO2/CH4 (17.7 at 273 K and 17.1 at 295 K) under 1 bar. More importantly, this MOF exhibits excellent moisture stability as assessed through PXRD experiments coupled with surface area analysis.
Coating of Gas‐Borne Nanoparticles with SiO2 in a Plasma‐Assisted CVD Process at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Post Patrick , Weber Alfred P.
Published: February 2018

Ein plasma‐unterstützer Aerosolprozess wird vorgestellt, der die kontinuierliche Beschichtung von Partikeln mit Siliziumoxid bei Umgebungstemperatur ermöglicht. Dabei wird eine dielektrische Barriere‐Entladung genutzt, um verschiedene reaktive Spezies zu erzeugen. Tetraethylorthosilikat dient als Precursor. Da der Prozess bei Umgebungstemperatur erfolgt, können auch temperaturempfindliche Stoffe beschichtet werden. Ein weiterer Vorteil ist die weitgehende Unabhängigkeit des Prozesses von der Partikelquelle. Die erfolgreiche Beschichtung wird auf unterschiedlichen Partikelgeometrien und ‐materialien, wie Metallen, Salzen und Kunststoffen demonstriert und die Abhängigkeit der Schichtdicke von der Partikeloberfläche gezeigt. Zudem wird die im Prozess auftretende Änderung der Partikelanzahlkonzentration, die im Wesentlichen durch Agglomeration verursacht wird, diskutiert.
Marble slurry derived hydroxyapatite as heterogeneous catalyst for biodiesel production from soybean oil
Authors: Gupta Jharna , Agarwal Madhu , Dalai Ajay Kumar
Published: February 2018

In this study, utilization of waste marble slurry (MS) as an eco‐friendly and low‐cost heterogeneous catalyst is introduced for biodiesel production from soybean oil. Catalytic transesterification reaction was done to convert biodiesel from soybean oil using Marble slurry (MS) derived calcined marble slurry (CMS), and hydroxyapatite (HAP) as a heterogeneous catalyst. Marble slurry derived catalysts were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and TGA with elemental analysis. Hammett indicator method and ion exchange method were also used to verify catalytic activities of the catalysts. The HAP provided the better biodiesel yield of 94 ± 1 % with the highest basicity (13.30 mmol/g) and basic strength than CMS under optimized reaction conditions: reaction temperature 65 °C; reaction time 3 h; methanol/oil molar ratio 9:1; and catalyst concentration 6 wt%. Reusability tests provide confirmation about the stability of the catalyst and slight fluctuations in catalytic activity and biodiesel yield when used up to five runs.
Lymphedema in ovarian cancer survivors: Assessing diagnostic methods and the effects of physical activity
Authors: Iyer Neel S. , Cartmel Brenda , Friedman Louis , Li Fangyong , Zhou Yang , Ercolano Elizabeth , Harrigan Maura , Gottlieb Linda , McCorkle Ruth , Schwartz Peter E. , Irwin Melinda L.
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Lymphedema is a poorly understood side effect of gynecologic cancer treatment. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of lower limb lymphedema (LLL) in a sample of ovarian cancer survivors via 3 different diagnostic methods and to assess the effect of a randomized exercise intervention.

METHODS

Physically inactive ovarian cancer survivors (n = 95) were enrolled in a 6‐month randomized trial of exercise (primarily brisk walking) versus attention control. LLL was measured at baseline and 6‐month visits via a self‐report questionnaire, optoelectronic perometry, and an evaluation by a certified lymphedema specialist.

RESULTS

LLL prevalence ranged from 21% to 38% according to the diagnostic method, and there was substantial agreement between the self‐report questionnaire and the lymphedema specialist evaluation (κ = 0.61). There was no agreement between the evaluation with optoelectronic perometry and the specialist evaluation. With LLL defined by any method, the baseline prevalence was 38% in both groups. At 6 months, both groups experienced a decreased LLL prevalence: 28% in the exercise group and 35% in the control group. There was no difference in the change in lymphedema prevalence between the 2 groups (P = .64). Body mass index was a significant predictor of LLL.

CONCLUSIONS

With a potential prevalence of LLL as high as 40%, further evaluation of diagnostic methods is required to better characterize this side effect of ovarian cancer treatment. No adverse effect of exercise on LLL was found. Further research is strongly needed to evaluate predictors of LLL and the effects of exercise on LLL in order to develop effective physical activity recommendations for women with ovarian cancer. Cancer 2018;124:1929‐37. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Analysis of rectangular cross sections under double eccentric compression stress
Authors: Vassilev † Todor , Salehi Hamidreza
Published: February 2018

Double eccentrically loaded cross‐sections with failing tension zone occur both in foundation engineering and in masonry building. The case of walls or columns loaded with double eccentricity by a normal force was no longer covered under the global safety concept of DIN 1053‐1 and is thus not normally considered in practice. With the transition to the semi‐probabilistic safety concept, verification of the cross‐section at the limit state of loadbearing capacity is performed near or at the failure state. This also made it necessary as part of the introduction of EN 1996‐1‐1 to introduce a verification for double eccentrically loaded cross‐sections. The present article considers the non‐linear stress distribution in double eccentrically loaded cross‐sections and the resulting position of the neutral axis. The described process is numerically robust and can be implemented with little effort for the analysis of masonry as an Excel spreadsheet.
Demountable prototype house – from facade to water tap
Authors: Kollna Martin
Published: February 2018

In connection with climate development, our buildings, both existing and newbuild, have to be intensively investigated regarding their energy balance and use of resources. An energy‐efficient dry building system capable of being recycled is important for new building today. This is the starting point for the project ReDeMaM (recyclable – demountable – highly energy‐efficient – massive – prototype house), to investigate whether appropriate systems are already available on the market and to what extent these are compatible with each other. The end result should be a prototype house, which includes all necessary elements including finishings with the objective of being capable of being dismantled, reused and recycled. The research project is supported by the research initiative Zukunft Bau (future building) and is currently underway at the Chair of Structural Design at the TU Dresden.
Two Temperature‐Controlled Zinc Coordination Polymers: Ionothermal Synthesis, Properties, and Dye Adsorption
Authors: Wang Meng‐Meng , Wei Zhen , Xu Ling , Liu Bing , Jiao Huan
Published: February 2018

Ionothermal reactions of Zn(NO3)2 with 1,2,4,5‐benzenetetracarboxylic acid (H4BTeC) produced two temperature‐controlled zinc(II) coordination polymers, [PMI]2[Zn2(BTeC)(H2BTeC)] (1) and [PMI]2[Zn3(BTeC)2]·2H2O (2; PMI = 1‐methyl‐3‐propylimidazolium). The reaction temperature affects the extent of deprotonation of the H4BTeC ligand, leading to different structures and properties. Coordination polymers 1 and 2 show different adsorptions of Ponceau 2R (P2R): 1 strongly adsorbs P2R, whereas 2 exhibits a much weaker adsorption. This behavior can be explained by a synergistic mechanism involving hydrogen‐bonding and coulombic interactions, mainly hydrogen bonding at high concentration and coulombic interactions at low concentration of the dye.
B12H122–‐Based Metal (Cu2+, Ni2+, Zn2+) Complexes as Hypergolic Fuels with Superior Hypergolicity
Authors: Zhang Zejun , Zhang Yanqiang , Li Zhimin , Jiao Nianming , Liu Long , Zhang Suojiang
Published: February 2018

In hypergolic propellants, hypergolicity is an extremely important parameter in evaluating fuels. In this study, a new family of hypergolic metal (Cu2+, Ni2+, Zn2+) complexes with B12H122– were synthesized and fully characterized. Two of these six complexes exhibited ultrashort ignition delay times (ca. 1 ms), with white fuming nitric acid as the oxidizer, besides good physicochemical properties (decomposition temperatures: 221.8–286.3 °C; densities: 1.215–1.264 g cm–3). The results demonstrate their promising applications in bipropellant formulations.
Catastrophizing, pain and traumatic stress symptoms following burns: A prospective study
Authors: Van Loey N.E. , Klein‐König I. , de Jong A.E.E. , Hofland H.W.C. , Vandermeulen E. , Engelhard I.M.
Published: February 2018

Background

Pain and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms are significant problems in the aftermath of a burn injury and they often co‐occur. Catastrophizing has been linked to both phenomena. The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying role of catastrophizing in PTSD symptoms and pain following burns.

Methods

This prospective study included 216 patients with burns. PTSD symptoms and pain were measured during hospitalization (T1) and 6 (T2) and 12 months (T3) postburn. The Impact of Event Scale‐Revised (IES‐R) indexed PTSD symptoms. Acute pain (T1) was the mean pain during the first two weeks of hospitalization measured using an 11‐point graphic numeric rating scale. Chronic pain was indexed using the single item ‘average’ pain from the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI). Catastrophizing was measured at T1 and T2 using the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ). Data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM).

Results

The results showed that T2 catastrophizing mediated between acute and chronic PTSD symptoms, and T3 pain. Furthermore, the study revealed significant associations between catastrophizing, PTSD symptoms and pain at the respective measurements, and significant longitudinal associations between the constructs.

Conclusion

A negative cognitive‐affective response to a burn event, such as catastrophizing, mediated the relationship between acute and chronic PTSD symptoms and later chronic pain. Screening for catastrophizing and acute PTSD symptoms is recommended to identify persons at risk for chronic PTSD symptoms and pain.

Significance

The identification of individuals who have the tendency to catastrophize may assist in finding those at risk for development of both chronic PTSD symptoms and chronic pain. Individuals may benefit from early psychological therapy focussing on catastrophizing and acute PTSD symptoms that may ameliorate both chronic PTSD symptoms and pain.