bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“This is not a test”: How do human resource development professionals use personality tests as tools of their professional practice?
Authors: Lundgren Henriette , Poell Rob F. , Kroon Brigitte
Published: January 2019

Although human resource development (HRD) professionals enjoy the use of personality tests in their practice, the appeal of these tests to some is harshly criticized by others. Personality tests attract through optimistic descriptions and ease of use for individual and team development while often lacking predictive and discriminant validities. Despite those concerns, the personality‐testing market can be characterized as a dynamic industry, with many professionals using assessments in developmental settings such as management training and executive coaching. The aim of this article is to explore how individual meaning‐making and organizational sensemaking theories help to explain the widespread and sustained use of personality tests in developmental contexts among HRD professionals. Using grounded theory and inductive analysis, we distill meaning from semistructured interviews with 18 HRD professionals. Through pattern analysis, we establish six strategies that describe practical approaches in personality testing: 1. Ethical‐protective, 2. Scientific‐selective, 3. Cautious‐avoiding, 4. Cautious‐embracing, 5. User friendly‐pragmatic, and 6. Knowledgeable‐accommodating. We find that HRD professionals deal with cognitive dissonances and paradoxical situations in their professional personality test use practice on a regular basis. Research limitations and implications for practice and future research are discussed.
The influence of groundwater representation on hydrological simulation and its assessment using satellite‐based water storage variation
Authors: Huang Zhongwei , Tang Qiuhong , Lo Min‐Hui , Liu Xingcai , Lu Hui , Zhang Xuejun , Leng Guoyong
Published: January 2019

The interaction between surface water and groundwater is an important aspect of hydrological processes. Despite its importance, groundwater is not well represented in many land surface models. In this study, a groundwater module with consideration of surface water and groundwater dynamic interactions is incorporated into the distributed biosphere hydrological (DBH) model in the upstream of the Yellow River basin, China. Two numerical experiments are conducted using the DBH model: one with groundwater module active, namely, DBH_GW and the other without, namely, DBH_NGW. Simulations by two experiments are compared with observed river discharge and terrestrial water storage (TWS) variation from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE). The results show that river discharge during the low flow season that is underestimated in the DBH_NGW has been improved by incorporating the groundwater scheme. As for the TWS, simulation in DBH_GW shows better agreement with GRACE data in terms of interannual and intraseasonal variations and annual changing trend. Furthermore, compared with DBH_GW, TWS simulated in DBH_NGW shows smaller decreases during autumn and smaller increases in spring. These results suggest that consideration of groundwater dynamics enables a more reasonable representation of TWS change by increasing TWS amplitudes and signals and as a consequence, improves river discharge simulation in the low flow seasons when groundwater is a major component in runoff. Additionally, incorporation of groundwater module also leads to wetter soil moisture and higher evapotranspiration, especially in the wet seasons.
Identification and mapping of riverbed sediment facies in the Columbia River through integration of field observations and numerical simulations
Authors: Hou Zhangshuan , Scheibe Timothy D. , Murray Christopher J. , Perkins William A. , Arntzen Evan V. , Ren Huiying , Mackley Robert D. , Richmond Marshall C.
Published: January 2019

In the Hanford Reach of the Columbia River, a thin layer of recent alluvium overlies the sedimentary formations that comprise the unconfined groundwater aquifer. Experimental and modelling studies have demonstrated that this alluvial layer exerts significant control on the exchange of groundwater and surface water (hydrologic exchange flux), and is associated with elevated levels of biogeochemical activity. This layer is also observed to be strongly heterogeneous, and quantifying the spatial distribution of properties over the range of scales of interest is challenging. Facies are elements of a sediment classification scheme that groups complex geologic materials into a set of discrete classes according to distinguishing features. Facies classifications have been used as a framework for assigning heterogeneous material properties to grid cells of numerical models of flow and reactive transport in subsurface media. The usefulness of such an approach hinges on being able to relate facies to quantitative properties needed for flow and reactive transport modelling, and on being able to map facies over the domain of interest using readily available information. Although aquifer facies have been used in various modelling contexts, application of this concept to riverbed sediments is relatively new. Here, we describe an approach for categorizing and mapping recent alluvial (riverbed) sediments based on the integration of diverse observations with numerical simulations of river hydrodynamics. The facies have distinct distributions of sediment texture that correspond to variations in hydraulic properties, and therefore provide a useful framework for assigning heterogeneous properties in numerical simulations of hydrologic exchange flows and biogeochemical processes.
Effectivity of dissolved SF6 tracer for clarification of rainfall–runoff processes in a forested headwater catchment
Authors: Sakakibara Koichi , Tsujimura Maki , Iwagami Sho , Sato Yutaro , Nagano Kosuke , Onda Yuichi
Published: January 2019

Understanding rainfall‐runoff processes is crucial for prevention and prediction of water‐related natural disasters. Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is a potential tracer, but few researches have applied it for rainfall‐runoff process studies. We observed multiple tracers including SF6 in spring water at 1‐ to 2‐hr intervals during rainstorm events to investigate the effectivity of SF6 tracer in rainfall–runoff studies through the clarification of rainfall–runoff process. The target spring is a perennial spring in a forested headwater catchment with an area of 0.045 km2 in Fukushima, Japan. The relationship between the SF6 concentration in spring water and the spring discharge volume was negative trend; the SF6 concentration in spring water becomes low as the spring discharge volume increases especially during rainstorms. The hydrograph separation using SF6 and chloride ion tracers was applied for determining the contribution of principal sources on rainfall–runoff water. It suggested more than 60% contribution of bedrock groundwater at the rainfall peak and high percentage contribution continued even in the hydrograph recession phase. Based on observed low SF6 concentration in groundwater after heavy rainfall, the replacement of groundwater near the spring with bedrock groundwater is indicated as a mechanism for water discharge with low SF6 concentration during rainfall events. Consequently, rainstorm events play an important role as triggers in discharging water stored in the deeper subsurface area. In addition, SF6 tracer is concluded as one of the strongest tracers for examining rainfall–runoff process studies. And, therefore, this study provided new insights into the dynamics of groundwater and its responses to rainfall in terms of SF6 concentration variance in water in headwater regions.
Tumor CD73/A2aR adenosine immunosuppressive axis and tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: correlations with clinicopathological characteristics and clinical outcome
Authors: Wang Xianhuo , Zhang Tingting , Song Zheng , Li Linyu , Zhang Xuhan , Liu Jing , Liu Xianming , Qiu Lihua , Qian Zhengzi , Zhou Shiyong , Feng Lixia , Hu Ge , Meng Bin , Zhai Qiongli , Ren Xiubao , Fu Kai , Li Lanfang , Wang Ping , Zhang Huilai
Published: January 2019

Novel immune checkpoint blockades, including those targeting CD73 and A2aR, are being evaluated in malignancies in clinical trials. Here, we investigated the expression of CD73 and A2aR as well as tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and analyzed their correlations with clinicopathological characteristics and survival in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We found that CD73 expression on tumor cells, rather than the total protein and gene levels of CD73, was associated with survival. Patients with CD73+/Pax‐5+ (median survival, 57.8 months; 95% CI, 46.4–69.3) experienced significantly poorer outcomes than those with CD73−/Pax‐5+ (median survival, 73.5 months; 95% CI, 65.9–81.2). Additionally, A2aR expression on both total TILs and CD8+ TILs was correlated with survival. Patients with A2aR+ TILs (median survival, 53.3 months; 95% CI, 40.6–66.0) had a significantly shorter survival time than patients with A2aR− TILs (median survival, 74.5 months; 95% CI, 67.5–81.5). Spearman's rank test showed that CD73 expression on tumor cells was positively correlated with A2aR expression on TILs (R = 0.395, p = 0.001). We further found that patients could be more precisely stratified through the combination of CD73 tumor cell expression and A2aR TILs expression, and patients with CD73+/Pax‐5+ and A2aR+ TILs experienced the worst outcome. We also revealed that patients with CD73+/Pax‐5+ and low CD8+ TILs or low absolute lymphocyte counts had unfavorable outcomes. Overall, our findings uncovered that patients with CD73+ on tumor cells as well as A2aR+ on TILs or low CD8+ TILs exhibited inferior survival, supporting potential combination strategies using CD73/A2aR immunosuppressive blockades as treatment options for DLBCL patients.
Plasma metabolites associated with colorectal cancer: A discovery‐replication strategy
Authors: Geijsen Anne J.M.R. , Brezina Stefanie , Keski‐Rahkonen Pekka , Baierl Andreas , Bachleitner‐Hofmann Thomas , Bergmann Michael M. , Boehm Juergen , Brenner Hermann , Chang‐Claude Jenny , van Duijnhoven Fränzel J.B. , Gigic Biljana , Gumpenberger Tanja , Hofer Philipp , Hoffmeister Michael , Holowatyj Andreana N. , Karner‐Hanusch Judith , Kok Dieuwertje E. , Leeb Gernot , Ulvik Arve , Robinot Nivonirina , Ose Jennifer , Stift Anton , Schrotz‐King Petra , Ulrich Alexis B. , Ueland Per Magne , Kampman Ellen , Scalbert Augustin , Habermann Nina , Gsur Andrea , Ulrich Cornelia M.
Published: January 2019

Colorectal cancer is known to arise from multiple tumorigenic pathways; however, the underlying mechanisms remain not completely understood. Metabolomics is becoming an increasingly popular tool in assessing biological processes. Previous metabolomics research focusing on colorectal cancer is limited by sample size and did not replicate findings in independent study populations to verify robustness of reported findings. Here, we performed a ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS) screening on EDTA plasma from 268 colorectal cancer patients and 353 controls using independent discovery and replication sets from two European cohorts (ColoCare Study: n = 180 patients/n = 153 controls; the Colorectal Cancer Study of Austria (CORSA) n = 88 patients/n = 200 controls), aiming to identify circulating plasma metabolites associated with colorectal cancer and to improve knowledge regarding colorectal cancer etiology. Multiple logistic regression models were used to test the association between disease state and metabolic features. Statistically significant associated features in the discovery set were taken forward and tested in the replication set to assure robustness of our findings. All models were adjusted for sex, age, BMI and smoking status and corrected for multiple testing using False Discovery Rate. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted from questionnaires and medical records.
Central adiposity in relation to risk of liver cancer in Chinese adults: A prospective study of 0.5 million people
Authors: Pang Yuanjie , Kartsonaki Christiana , Guo Yu , Chen Yiping , Yang Ling , Bian Zheng , Bragg Fiona , Millwood Iona Y. , Yu Canqing , Lv Jun , Chen Junshi , Li Liming , Holmes Michael V. , Chen Zhengming
Published: January 2019

Central adiposity is associated with liver cancer risk beyond general adiposity in Western populations. However, there is little prospective evidence in East Asian populations who are more likely to have central adiposity at given BMI levels. The prospective China Kadoorie Biobank recruited 512,713 adults aged 30–79 years from 10 diverse areas. During 10 years follow‐up, 2,847 incident cases of liver cancer were identified. Cox regression was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for liver cancer associated with central adiposity, excluding individuals with cancers and liver diseases at baseline and the first 5 years of follow‐up (1,049 incident liver cancer cases). Overall, mean waist circumference (WC) was 82.2 (SD 9.8) cm in men and 79.1 (9.5) cm in women. Central adiposity showed positive associations with liver cancer risk. Associations were strongest for WC and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR), with adjusted HRs per 1‐SD of 1.09 (95%CI 1.01–1.18) and 1.12 (1.02–1.23), respectively. The positive associations became stronger when additionally adjusting for BMI (1.26 [1.09–1.46] and 1.14 [1.02–1.28]). The positive association of central obesity (WC ≥90 cm in men and ≥ 80 cm in women) with liver cancer increased progressively with the number of other presenting metabolic risk factors (physical inactivity, diabetes, and hypertension), with HRs of 1.07 (0.90–1.28), 1.17 (1.00–1.38), and 1.91 (1.40–2.59) in those with one, two, and three factors (p for trend 0.006). In this relatively lean Chinese population, there were positive associations of central adiposity with risk of liver cancer, with WHR and WC showing the strongest associations.
Waso: An Innovative Device to Uncover Independent Converging Opinions of Irrigation System Farmers
Authors: Keïta Amadou , Koïta Mahamadou , Niang Dial , Lidon Bruno
Published: January 2019

Many development projects fail due to farmers' individual antagonistic strategies. Group surveys often fail to capture underlying individual motivations. An innovation from the African game Awale and the Japanese abacus named Soroban, WASO was used to assess opinions in the Baguinéda Irrigation Scheme (Mali) for rice cultivation and the sugar cane company of SUCAF‐CI (Côte d'Ivoire). The WASO scores were introduced into the ANOVA/Tukey test or Kruskal–Wallis/Mann–Whitney test to check their convergence. Such processing provided very useful results in the two case studies. At the Baguinéda Irrigation Scheme, the farmers' foremost concern to improve drainage system maintenance is training for maintenance (score 17.6 ± 1.1 at a 95% confidence interval (CI)). At SUCAF‐CI, sugar cane cutters would be much more available if they were paid on a monthly basis (score 15.7 ± 1.0 at 95% CI). It appeared that the WASO is an effective and versatile statistical interface helping to reveal and prioritize stakeholders' independent converging opinions, crucial to a development project's success. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deficit Irrigation Scheduling and Superabsorbent Polymer‐ Hydrogel Enhance Seed Yield, Water Productivity and Economics of Indian Mustard Under Semi‐Arid Ecologies
Authors: Rathore S.S. , Shekhawat Kapila , Dass Anchal , Premi O.P. , Rathore B.S. , Singh V.K.
Published: January 2019

Oilseed brassicas are extensively grown in the water‐stressed ecologies of India. Sufficient irrigation, deficit irrigation scheduling (DIS) with limited irrigation water and rainfed (no irrigation) conditions were assessed with and without the use of superabsorbent polymer‐hydrogel (SAP‐hydrogel) under a micro‐sprinkler irrigation system (MIS) for Indian mustard. Irrigation scheduling at an irrigation water/cumulative pan evaporation ratio (IW/CPE) of 0.8, 0.6 and 0.4, along with use of SAP‐hydrogel, produced almost equal dry matter per plant (113, 115 and 109 g plant−1), which was, however, significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) over rainfed (86 g plant−1). The seed yield under DIS (0.6 IW/CPE) increased by 39.3% over rainfed + hydrogel (HG). Also, the seed yield obtained under irrigation scheduling at a ratio of 0.4 IW/CPE was found to be similar to that obtained in rainfed + HG treatment. A similar water productivity (WP) of 10 kg ha−1 mm−1 was obtained with DIS at 0.4 IW/CPE + HG and at 0.8 IW/CPE‐HG; however, a higher total water productivity (WPt) was recorded under DIS at 0.6 and 0.4 IW/CPE + HG (23 and 29 kg ha−1 mm−1, respectively) over the same irrigation schedules excluding HG. The economics of HG application under DIS was better due to higher net returns, although the highest B : C ratio (1.92) was recorded in DIS (0.4 IW/CPE), trailed by irrigation scheduling at IW/CPE 0.8 and 0.6. Overall, it could be concluded that DIS through micro‐sprinkler and use of HG enhanced seed, oil, water productivity and energy dynamics under water‐constrained conditions in semi‐arid ecologies. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional cellular imaging in thick biological tissue with confocal detection of one‐photon fluorescence in the near‐infrared II window
Authors: Wang Menghan , Chen Nanguang
Published: January 2019

Fluorescence imaging in the second near‐infrared optical window (NIR‐II, 900‐1700 nm) has become a technique of choice for noninvasive in vivo imaging in recent years. Greater penetration depths with high spatial resolution and low background can be achieved with this NIR‐II window, owing to low autofluorescence within this optical range and reduced scattering of long wavelength photons. Here, we present a novel design of confocal laser scanning microscope tailored for imaging in the NIR‐II window. We showcase the outstanding penetration depth of our confocal setup with a series of imaging experiments. HeLa cells labeled with PbS quantum dots with a peak emission wavelength of 1276 nm can be visualized through a 3.5‐mm‐thick layer of scattering medium, which is a 0.8% Lipofundin solution. A commercially available organic dye IR‐1061 (emission peak at 1132 nm), in its native form, is used for the first time, as a NIR‐II fluorescence label in cellular imaging. Our confocal setup is capable of capturing optically sectioned images of IR‐1061 labeled chondrocytes in fixed animal cartilage at a depth up to 800 μm, with a superb spatial resolution of around 2 μm.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Tricyclic Pyrrolidinyl (R)‐Alcohols and Amines
Authors: Şahin Engin , Kılıç Hamdullah , Törnük Fatih , Dertli Enes
Published: January 2019

Three new tricyclic pyrrolidinyl alcohols and three tricyclic pyrrolidinyl amines were synthesized, and the antibacterial activities of these compounds were tested against Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes. All tested pyrrolidinyl alcohols and amines showed antibacterial activity to the tested pathogens, but this activity was dependent on the final concentration of the tested compound, and the structure of these compounds were also important for this antibacterial activity. Of the tested compounds, (2R)‐2‐(octahydro‐4,8‐ethanocyclohepta[c]pyrrol‐2(1H)‐yl)‐2‐phenylethanamine (2c) was the most effective compound among the tested pyrrolidinyl alcohols and amines. This study shows a good example of finding new antimicrobials in order to control pathogenic bacteria.
Syntheses of Methylene‐bridged Symmetric Bisimidazolium Picrates as High‐energetic Salts
Authors: Du Xiao‐Gang , Zhou Jun‐Qiang , Zhong Meng , Zhu Xue‐Mei , Yun Fan , Jin Chuan‐Ming
Published: January 2019

Symmetric bisimidazolium picrates were synthesized by the quaternization of bisimidazolylmethylene and a metathesis reaction with silver picrate. The symmetric structures of the new picrate salts were confirmed by 1H and 13C NMR spectral analysis and ESI‐MS. The structures of compounds 3a and 4a were also confirmed by X‐ray single crystal diffusion. The thermal properties of the compounds were determined by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The picrates showed better thermal stabilities than did traditional azolium‐based ionic salts, with higher decomposition temperatures, and 3b had the lowest melting point. These results indicated that the electronic effect of the substituent groups obviously influenced the quaternization and the high‐energetic properties.
Effectiveness of dolutegravir‐based regimens as either first‐line or switch antiretroviral therapy: data from the Icona cohort
Authors: Mondi Annalisa , Cozzi‐Lepri Alessandro , Tavelli Alessandro , Rusconi Stefano , Vichi Francesca , Ceccherini‐Silberstein Francesca , Calcagno Andrea , De Luca Andrea , Maggiolo Franco , Marchetti Giulia , Antinori Andrea , d'Arminio Monforte Antonella ,   Icona Foundation Study Group
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Concerns about dolutegravir (DTG) tolerability in the real‐life setting have recently arisen. We aimed to estimate the risk of treatment discontinuation and virological failure of DTG‐based regimens from a large cohort of HIV‐infected individuals.

Methods

We performed a multicentre, observational study including all antiretroviral therapy (ART)‐naïve and virologically suppressed treatment‐experienced (TE) patients from the Icona (Italian Cohort Naïve Antiretrovirals) cohort who started, for the first time, a DTG‐based regimen from January 2015 to December 2017. We estimated the cumulative risk of DTG discontinuation regardless of the reason and for toxicity, and of virological failure using Kaplan–Meier curves. We used Cox regression model to investigate predictors of DTG discontinuation.

Results

About 1679 individuals (932 ART‐naïve, 747 TE) were included. The one‐ and two‐year probabilities (95% CI) of DTG discontinuation were 6.7% (4.9 to 8.4) and 11.5% (8.7 to 14.3) for ART‐naïve and 6.6% (4.6 to 8.6) and 7.6% (5.4 to 9.8) for TE subjects. In both ART‐naïve and TE patients, discontinuations of DTG were mainly driven by toxicity with an estimated risk (95% CI) of 4.0% (2.6 to 5.4) and 2.5% (1.3 to 3.6) by one year and 5.6% (3.8 to 7.5) and 4.0% (2.4 to 5.6) by two years respectively. Neuropsychiatric events were the main reason for stopping DTG in both ART‐naïve (2.1%) and TE (1.7%) patients. In ART‐naïve, a concomitant AIDS diagnosis predicted the risk of discontinuing DTG for any reason (adjusted relative hazard (aRH) = 3.38, p = 0.001), whereas starting DTG in combination with abacavir (ABC) was associated with a higher risk of discontinuing because of toxicity (aRH = 3.30, p = 0.009). TE patients starting a DTG‐based dual therapy compared to a triple therapy had a lower risk of discontinuation for any reason (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 2.50, p = 0.037 for ABC‐based triple‐therapies, aHR = 3.56, p = 0.012 for tenofovir‐based) and for toxicity (aHR = 5.26, p = 0.030 for ABC‐based, aHR = 6.60, p = 0.024 for tenofovir‐based). The one‐ and two‐year probabilities (95% CI) of virological failure were 1.2% (0.3 to 2.0) and 4.6% (2.7 to 6.5) in the ART naïve group and 2.2% (1.0 to 3.3) and 2.9% (1.5 to 4.3) in the TE group.

Conclusions

In this large cohort, DTG showed excellent efficacy and optimal tolerability both as first‐line and switching ART. The low risk of treatment‐limiting toxicities in ART‐naïve as well as in treated individuals reassures on the use of DTG in everyday clinical practice.
Access to 18F‐labelled isoxazoles by ruthenium‐promoted 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of 4‐[18F]fluoro‐N‐hydroxybenzimidoyl chloride with alkynes
Authors: Roscales Silvia , Kniess Torsten
Published: January 2019

4‐[18F]Fluoro‐N‐hydroxybenzimidoyl chloride (18FBIC), an 18F‐labelled aromatic nitrile oxide, was developed as building block for Ru‐promoted 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with alkynes. 18FBIC is obtained in a one‐pot synthesis in up to 84% radiochemical yield (RCY) starting from [18F]fluoride with 4‐[18F]fluorobenzaldehyde (18FBA) and 4‐[18F]fluorobenzaldehyde oxime (18FBAO) as intermediates, by reaction of 18FBAO with N‐chlorosuccinimide (NCS). 18FBIC was found to be a suitable and stable synthon to give access to 18F‐labelled 3,4‐diarylsubstituted isoxazoles by [Cp*RuCl(cod)]‐catalysed 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with various alkynes. So the radiosynthesis of a fluorine‐18–labelled COX‐2 inhibitor [18F]1b, a close derivative of valdecoxib, was performed with 18FBIC and 1‐ethynyl‐4‐(methylsulfonyl)benzene, providing [18F]1b in up to 40% RCY after purification in 85 minutes. The application of 18FBIC as a building block in the synthesis of 18F‐labelled heterocycles will generally extend the portfolio of available PET radiotracers.
New 99mTc(CO)3‐radiolabeled arylpiperazine pharmacophore as potent 5HT1A serotonin receptor radiotracer: Docking studies, chemical synthesis, radiolabeling, and biological evaluation
Authors: Erfani Mostafa , Malek Hadi , Sadat Ebrahimi Seyed Esmaeil , Hassanzadeh Leila
Published: January 2019

In spite of previous efforts, there is lack of a radiotracer for imaging the 5HT1A receptor density in human brain, which is involved in several neurological brain disorders. The aim of this study was to prepare a new derivative of 1‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)piperazine (MPP) as a main chemical structure of 5HT1A receptor antagonist with 3‐carbon linker and radiolabeled by [99mTc][Tc(CO)3(H2O)3]+ precursor. Docking studies before chemical synthesis showed similar fashion of interaction for both WAY100635 (potent 5HT1A receptor antagonist) and new designed ligand, despite of addition of 99mTc(CO)3 group in the structure of new ligand. MPP‐(CH2)3‐N3 was synthesized via three efficient and reliable chemical synthesis steps (more than 80% yield) then radiolabeled by addition of 2‐ethynylpyridine and [99mTc][Tc(CO)3(H2O)3]+ precursor in one pot procedure (more than 95% radiochemical efficiency) through click chemistry method. After incubation, radiotracer was found stable in vitro up to 2 hours. Binding assays showed about 33% specific binding of radiotracer to the 5HT1A receptors. Brain biodistribution studies indicated (0.26 ± 0.05)% ID/g hippocampus uptake at 30 minutes post injection, which its specificity was verified through blocking studies. These results suggested that new designed radioligand might serve as a potent SPECT imaging agent to estimate status of 5HT1A receptors.
Application of quantitative structure‐activity relationship analysis on an antibody and alternariol‐like compounds interaction study
Authors: Wang Jianyi , Peng Tao , Zhang Xiya , Xie Sanlei , Zheng Pimiao , Yao Kai , Ke Yuebin , Wang Zhanhui , Jiang Haiyang
Published: January 2019

The antigen‐antibody interaction determines the sensitivity and specificity of competitive immunoassay for hapten detection. In this paper, the specificity of a monoclonal antibody against alternariol‐like compounds was evaluated through indirect competitive ELISA. The results showed that the antibody had cross‐reactivity with 33 compounds with the binding affinity (expressed by IC50) ranging from 9.4 ng/mL to 12.0 μg/mL. All the 33 compounds contained a common moiety and similar substituents. To understand how this common moiety and substituents affected the recognition ability of the antibody, a three‐dimensional quantitative structure‐activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) between the antibody and the 33 alternariol‐like compounds was constructed using comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) methods. The q2 values of the CoMFA and CoMSIA models were 0.785 and 0.782, respectively, and the r2 values were 0.911 and 0.988, respectively, indicating that the models had good predictive ability. The results of 3D‐QSAR showed that the most important factor affecting antibody recognition was the hydrogen bond mainly formed by the hydroxyl group of alternariol, followed by the hydrophobic force mainly formed by the methyl group. This study provides a reference for the design of new hapten and the mechanisms for antibody recognition.
APT‐weighted MRI: Techniques, current neuro applications, and challenging issues
Authors: Zhou Jinyuan , Heo Hye‐Young , Knutsson Linda , van Zijl Peter C.M. , Jiang Shanshan
Published: January 2019

Amide proton transfer‐weighted (APTw) imaging is a molecular MRI technique that generates image contrast based predominantly on the amide protons in mobile cellular proteins and peptides that are endogenous in tissue. This technique, the most studied type of chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging, has been used successfully for imaging of protein content and pH, the latter being possible due to the strong dependence of the amide proton exchange rate on pH. In this article we briefly review the basic principles and recent technical advances of APTw imaging, which is showing promise clinically, especially for characterizing brain tumors and distinguishing recurrent tumor from treatment effects. Early applications of this approach to stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and traumatic brain injury are also illustrated. Finally, we outline the technical challenges for clinical APT‐based imaging and discuss several controversies regarding the origin of APTw imaging signals in vivo.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:347–364.
The effect of storage temperature and water activity on aflatoxin B1 accumulation in hull‐less and hulled spelt grains
Authors: Krulj Jelena , Markov Siniša , Bočarov‐Stančić Aleksandra , Pezo Lato , Kojić Jovana , Ćurčić Nataša , Janić‐Hajnal Elizabet , Bodroža‐Solarov Marija
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

In concomitance with shifts in climate conditions in recent years, an increasingly frequent emergence of Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxins in cereals has been observed. In this study the effects of temperature (15, 23, 30 and 37 °C) and water activity (aw) (0.85, 0.90, 0.95 and 0.99) on aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) production by A. flavus isolate inoculated on hull‐less and hulled spelt grains were investigated.

RESULTS

The optimal conditions for AFB1 biosynthesis were reached at 30 °C and aw value of 0.99 in the all tested samples (hull‐less grains, dehulled spelt grains and hulls). The AFB1 accumulation was significantly higher in hull‐less than in dehulled grains, that implicated a protective effect of spelt hulls. The levels of AFB1 were about 10–170 times higher in hulls than in grains. In order to determine the possibility of predicting the occurrence of AFB1 under different storage conditions mathematical models [second order polynomial (SOP) and artificial neural network (ANN)] were applied.

CONCLUSION

The achievement of such estimation facilitates further decisions on continuous monitoring of the potential hazard related to AFB1 contamination of stored spelt‐based food. The knowledge of the storage temperature and aw effects on the AFB1 content in spelt during the postharvest phase is of great practical importance. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
High‐density surface electromyography: A visualization method of laryngeal muscle activity
Authors: Bracken David J. , Ornelas Gladys , Coleman Todd P. , Weissbrod Philip A.
Published: January 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Laryngeal muscle activation is a complex and dynamic process. Current evaluation methods include needle and surface electromyography (sEMG). Limitations of needle electromyography include patient discomfort, interpretive complexity, and limited duration of recording. sEMG demonstrates interpretive challenges given loss of spatial selectivity. Application of high‐density sEMG (HD sEMG) arrays were evaluated for potential to compensate for spatial selectivity loss while retaining benefits of noninvasive monitoring.

Study Design

Basic science.

Methods

Ten adults performed phonatory tasks while a 20‐channel array recorded spatiotemporal data of the anterior neck. Data were processed to provide average spectral power of each electrode. Comparison was made between rest, low‐, and high‐pitch phonation. Two‐dimensional (2D) spectral energy maps were created to evaluate use in gross identification of muscle location.

Results

Three phonatory tasks yielded spectral power measures across the HD sEMG array. Each electrode within the array demonstrated unique power values across all subjects (P < .001). Comparison of each electrode to itself across phonatory tasks yielded differences in all subjects during rest versus low versus high, rest versus low, and rest versus high and in 9/10 subjects (P < .001) for low versus high phonation. Symmetry of HD sEMG signal was noted. Review of 2D coronal energy maps allowed for gross identification of cricothyroid muscle amidst anterior strap musculature.

Conclusions

HD sEMG can be used to identify differences in anterior neck muscle activity between rest, low‐, and high‐pitch phonation. HD sEMG of the anterior neck holds potential to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic monitoring for pathologies of laryngeal function.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:2347–2353, 2019
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Type‐2 CRS wNP: An Endotype‐Based Retrospective Study
Authors: Alsharif Saeed , Jonstam Karin , van Zele Thibaut , Gevaert Philippe , Holtappels Gabriele , Bachert Claus
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Nasal polyps are often characterized by type 2 inflammation and disease recurrence. We developed a new surgical technique, referred to as reboot approach, which aims to maximally remove all sinus mucosa and allow healthy re‐epithelialization from the preserved nasal mucosa. We here review type 2 endotype chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) patients who underwent classical mucosa‐sparing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) or the reboot approach.

Methods

Retrospective case‐control study of 50 consecutive CRSwNP patients who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery between 2015 and 2017, either as a classical non‐reboot ESS (n = 20); a partial reboot approach removing the mucosa of the ethmoidal, sphenoidal, and maxillary sinuses (n = 18); or a complete reboot approach including Draf III and removal of all frontal sinus mucosa (n = 12). Polyp recurrence over the follow‐up period of 2 years served as the primary outcome.

Results

All patients demonstrated a type 2 inflammation of the mucosal tissue harvested during surgery. In the classical approach group (n = 20), nine patients relapsed within 2 years (45%); in the partial reboot group, three out of 18 patients (17%) relapsed; and in the full reboot group one out of 12 patients (8%) relapsed. The relapse rates were significantly different between the non‐reboot and the reboot groups (P = 0.02) but also between all treatment groups (P = 0.038).

Conclusion

Complete removal of diseased mucosa from the paranasal sinuses (reboot approach) significantly reduces the recurrence of nasal polyps for 30 months postoperatively compared to the current mucosa‐sparing approach in type 2 inflammatory CRSwNP.

Level of Evidence

3b

Laryngoscope, 129:1286–1292, 2019
Oxaloacetate Protects Rat Liver From Experimental Warm Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Improving Cellular Energy Metabolism
Authors: Merlen Grégory , Raymond Valérie‐Ann , Cassim Shamir , Lapierre Pascal , Bilodeau Marc
Published: January 2019

Liver ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is an important cause of liver damage especially early after liver transplantation, following liver resection, and in other clinical situations. Using rat experimental models, we identified oxaloacetate (OAA) as a key metabolite able to protect hepatocytes from hypoxia and IRI. In vitro screening of metabolic intermediates beneficial for hepatocyte survival under hypoxia was performed by measures of cell death and injury. In vivo, the effect of OAA was evaluated using the left portal vein ligation (LPVL) model of liver ischemia and a model of warm IRI. Liver injury was evaluated in vivo by serum transaminase levels, liver histology, and liver weight (edema). Levels and activity of caspase 3 were also measured. In vitro, the addition of OAA to hepatocytes kept in a hypoxic environment significantly improved cell viability (P < 0.01), decreased cell injury (P < 0.01), and improved energy metabolism (P < 0.01). Administration of OAA significantly reduced the extent of liver injury in the LPVL model with lower levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT; P < 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (AST; P < 0.01), and reduced liver necrosis (P < 0.05). When tested in a warm IRI model, OAA significantly decreased ALT (P < 0.001) and AST levels (P < 0.001), prevented liver edema (P < 0.001), significantly decreased caspase 3 expression (P < 0.01), as well as histological signs of cellular vesiculation and vacuolation (P < 0.05). This was associated with higher adenosine triphosphate (P < 0.05) and energy charge levels (P < 0.01). In conclusion, OAA can significantly improve survival of ischemic hepatocytes. The hepatoprotective effect of OAA was associated with increased levels of liver bioenergetics both in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that it is possible to support mitochondrial activity despite the presence of ischemia and that OAA can effectively reduce ischemia‐induced injury in the liver.
Policy experts say California budget signals transformational approach
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2019

California's newly elected governor has laid the groundwork for what some policy experts are calling a transformational approach to mental health care in the state, with a budget proposal emphasizing early intervention, innovative workforce development and a continuum of support.
GAO identifies six practices for certifying peer specialists
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2019

Taking note of the growth of the peer support workforce and the increased attention to standardizing the competencies of peer support specialists through certification, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report identifying the six leading practices in the areas of screening, training and certification requirements for programs that certify peer support specialists.
Study highlights social media behaviors that may link to MDD
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2019

Negative social media behaviors, such as increased comparisons and addiction to social media, are more associated with individuals who meet the criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD), according to researchers of a new study published online in the Journal of Applied Biobehavioral Research. Conversely, positive social media behaviors, such as social interaction with others, are more associated with individuals without MDD, researchers stated.
A 900/1800 MHz dual‐band high‐efficiency rectenna
Authors: Tissier Jérôme , Latrach Mohamed
Published: January 2019

This article presents a high‐efficiency dual‐band rectenna, for RF energy harvesting in GSM bands (900‐1800 MHz). The rectifier used is a dual‐diode rectifier topology based on a Delon voltage doubler. To ensure, the highest efficiency as possible, source‐pull simulations are used to determine the optimal diodes input impedance. The antenna is a spiral planar structure, where two slots ring resonators have been added to expand bandwidth at low frequencies without increasing its initial size. It is associated with a broadband balun to transform its impedance into the desired 50‐Ω rectifier input impedance. The antenna and balun are sized for broadband operation to cover the main wireless communication bands. Measurement results show high RF‐DC conversion efficiencies of 28% and 20% at 890 MHz and 1780 MHz, respectively, for a low RF input power of −20 dBm and with a 10 kΩ DC load. Efficiency reaches 43.5% with a dual‐tone signal at −20 dBm.
65nm CMOS phase conjugator for retro‐directive short‐range wireless power transfer
Authors: Lim Joo‐Hwan , Kim Wan‐Su , Doan Nhut‐Tan , Lai Ngoc‐Duy‐Hien , Ngo Tan‐Binh , Kim Chang‐Woo , Yoon Sang‐Woong
Published: January 2019

We present an ultra‐compact phase conjugator for a radio frequency (RF) system of a retro‐directive array (RDA) that is, suitable for a short‐range wireless power transfer (WPT) application. The proposed phase conjugator consists of a mixer, buffer, and limiter, and provides not only an accurate conjugate phase but also small jitter, variable gain, and linear phase characteristics. The phase conjugator was implemented using Samsung 65 nm RF CMOS technology. The size of the core chip was 1150 × 880 μm2. The circuit used a supply voltage of 1.4 V and a current of 10 mA. All ports are matched to 50 Ω. In the measurements, the RF, intermediate frequency (IF), and local oscillator (LO) frequency of the mixer are 2.5, 2.4, and 4.9 GHz, respectively. The phase conjugator provides an excellent RF‐IF isolation of less than −45 dB and small RMS jitter of less than 4.3 ps. The limiter enables the phase conjugator to exhibit a constant phase of 168.1 ± 0.10 and a constant output power of about −22.5 ± 0.3 dBm in the input power range from −10 dBm to 0 dBm.
Graphene‐based tunable near‐infrared absorber
Authors: Thomas Leena , Sorathiya Vishal , Patel Shobhit K. , Guo Tianjing
Published: January 2019

We propose design of tunable high sensitive absorber for infrared spectrum using graphene layer. Proposed absorber structure is tunable over near‐infrared region of 900‐1000 nm. Tunability of reflector is achieved by different chemical potential of graphene. Parameters like absorption and reflectance of the design has been analyzed for varying chemical potential of graphene. Maximum absorption of 99.2% for chemical potential of 0.4 eV at 955.5 nm has been observed. Such features of the design can be implemented for applications like biomedical sensor and optical communication.
Miniaturized bandpass filter design using substrate integrated waveguide cavities with enhanced signal selectivity
Authors: Ho Min‐Hua , Lee Keh‐Yi , Chen Yi‐Cheng
Published: January 2019

We propose a miniaturized bandpass filter (BPF) design with enhanced signal selectivity performance. The proposed structure is composed of four square substrate integrated waveguide cavities (SIWCs). To miniaturize its circuit size, the applied cavities are under the evanescent mode resonance which is accomplished by loaded itself with a large capacitance. As a result, a 93.4% size reduction is achieved. The negative coupling structure is employed in the filter design to create two transmission zeroes by the pass band's two edges for enhancing the signal selectivity. Experiment is conducted to verify this compact SIWC BPF design.
Compact wideband tapered‐fed printed bow‐tie antenna with rectangular edge extension
Authors: Bozdag Goksenin , Secmen Mustafa
Published: January 2019

In this article, a wideband printed bow‐tie antenna is designed entire band of GPS (L5), PCS, IMT‐2000, Bluetooth, Wi‐Fi, WiMAX bands, and the most of frequency range of UWB. Apart from the traditional designs, the proposed antenna includes tapered printed line with a feeding point patch and triangular bows with rectangular edge extensions, which makes the antenna more compact. The antenna realized at the frequency band of 1.49‐9.5 GHz (more than 6.3:1 ratio bandwidth) has the dimensions of 122 mm × 56 mm (0.61λ0 × 0.28λ0). According to measurement results, the realized gain varies between almost 1 and 6.5 dBi with 4.44 dBi average, which are in good agreement with simulation results. Radiation patterns at the lower frequencies of operating band show dipole like radiation pattern with higher cross‐pol discrimination levels while they degrade at the higher frequencies due to increase in gain.
Efficient shear wave elastography using transient acoustic radiation force excitations and MR displacement encoding
Authors: Hofstetter Lorne W. , Odéen Henrik , Bolster Bradley D. , Mueller Alexander , Christensen Douglas A. , Payne Allison , Parker Dennis L.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To present a novel MR shear wave elastography (MR‐SWE) method that efficiently measures the speed of propagating wave packets generated using acoustic radiation force (ARF) impulses.

Methods

ARF impulses from a focused ultrasound (FUS) transducer were applied sequentially to a preselected set of positions and motion encoded MRI was used to acquire volumetric images of the propagating shear wavefront emanating from each point. The wavefront position at multiple propagation times was encoded in the MR phase image using a train of motion encoding gradient lobes. Generating a transient propagating wavefront at multiple spatial positions and sampling each at multiple time‐points allowed for shear wave speed maps to be efficiently created. MR‐SWE was evaluated in tissue mimicking phantoms and ex vivo bovine liver tissue before and after ablation.

Results

MR‐SWE maps, covering an in‐plane area of ~5 × 5 cm, were acquired in 12 s for a single slice and 144 s for a volumetric scan. MR‐SWE detected inclusions of differing stiffness in a phantom experiment. In bovine liver, mean shear wave speed significantly increased from 1.65 ± 0.18 m/s in normal to 2.52 ± 0.18 m/s in ablated region (n = 581 pixels; P‐value < 0.001).

Conclusion

MR‐SWE is an elastography technique that enables precise targeting and excitation of the desired tissue of interest. MR‐SWE may be particularly well suited for treatment planning and endpoint assessment of MR‐guided FUS procedures because the same device used for therapy can be used as an excitation source for tissue stiffness quantification.
How do UK physiotherapists address weight loss among individuals with hip osteoarthritis? A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Holden Melanie Ann , Waterfield Jackie , Whittle Rebecca , Bennell Kim , Quicke Jonathan George , Chesterton Linda , Mallen Christian David
Published: January 2019

Background

Weight loss is recommended as a core treatment for individuals with hip osteoarthritis who are overweight or obese. Physiotherapists play an important role in managing patients with hip osteoarthritis, but little is known about how they address weight. We aimed to explore how UK‐based physiotherapists currently address weight loss among individuals with hip OA.

Methods

We carried out a mixed‐methods study. A cross‐sectional questionnaire was mailed to 3,126 UK‐based musculoskeletal physiotherapists. Self‐reported approaches to addressing weight loss among individuals with hip osteoarthritis were explored using a case vignette and associated clinical management questions. Semi‐structured telephone interviews (n = 21) were completed with a purposeful sample of physiotherapists who returned the questionnaire and provided consent for further contact. Interview data were analysed thematically.

Results

There was a 53% response rate to the questionnaires (n = 1,646), and 1,148 responders were eligible for analyses (based on having treated an individual with hip OA in the last 6 months). Eight‐five per cent of physiotherapists reported that they would address the vignette patient's weight, usually via advice (70%). Interviews identified that advice often focused on the importance of weight loss, with some physiotherapists offering basic advice on how to achieve weight loss. Multiple factors influenced their approach, including confidence, perceived remit and patient receptiveness.

Conclusions

UK physiotherapists commonly address weight loss among patients with hip osteoarthritis, by offering advice relating to the importance of weight loss. However, provision of more specific guidance on how to achieve weight loss is variable. With additional training, physiotherapists could play an important role in supporting weight loss among patients with hip OA, thus potentially optimizing treatment outcomes.