bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Image quality and acquisition time assessments for phase oversampling in compressed sensing sensitivity encoding: Comparison with conventional SENSE
Authors: Jang Ji Sung , Lee Ho Beom , Suh Chong Hyun , Lee Min Hee
Published: December 2021

This study compared sensitivity encoding (SENSE) and compressed sensing sensitivity encoding (CS‐SENSE) for phase oversampling distance and assessed its impact on image quality and image acquisition time. The experiment was performed with a large diameter phantom using 16‐channel anterior body coils. All imaging data were divided into three groups according to the parallel imaging technique and oversampling distances: groups A (SENSE with phase oversampling distance of 150 mm), B (CS‐SENSE with phase oversampling distance of 100 mm), and C (CS‐SENSE with phase oversampling distance of 75 mm). No statistically significant differences were observed among groups A, B, and C regarding both T2 and T1 turbo spin‐echo (TSE) sequences using an acceleration factor (AF) of 2 (p = 0.301 and 0.289, respectively). In comparison with AF 2 of group A, the scan time of AF 2 of groups B and C was reduced by 11.2% and 23.5% (T2 TSE) and 15.8% and 22.7% (T1 TSE), respectively, while providing comparable image quality. Significant image noise and aliasing artifact were more evident at AF 2 in group A compared with groups B and C. CS‐SENSE with a less phase oversampling distance can reduce image acquisition time without image quality degradation compared with that of SENSE, despite the increase in aliasing artifact as the AF increased in both CS‐SENSE and SENSE.
Expert opinions on the smallest effect size of interest in false memory research
Authors: Riesthuis Paul , Mangiulli Ivan , Broers Nick , Otgaar Henry
Published: December 2021

In the present study, we used a new approach to establish the smallest effect size of interest (SESOI) for false memory research by asking memory researchers what they considered to be the SESOI in false memory research. They were presented with three hypothetical and three influential paper scenarios. These scenarios depicted studies examining the effects of certain manipulations (e.g., therapy) on false memory formation using well‐known false memory paradigms: Deese/Roediger‐McDermott, misinformation, and forced fabrication. Subsequently, they were asked for each scenario what they would consider to be the SESOI for practical and theoretical purposes and justify their decisions. We found that there was no clear consensus for the SESOI. However, memory researchers tended to accept smaller SESOIs or “any difference that leads to a p < .05,” especially for theoretical ends. We argue that the lack of a general consensus is acceptable as long as proper justification is used. We discuss such rationales and provide recommendations for setting the SESOI.
Multisystem Involvement in Post‐Acute Sequelae of Coronavirus Disease 19
Authors: Novak Peter , Mukerji Shibani S. , Alabsi Haitham S. , Systrom David , Marciano Sadie P. , Felsenstein Donna , Mullally William J. , Pilgrim David M.
Published: December 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe cerebrovascular, neuropathic, and autonomic features of post‐acute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 ((COVID‐19) PASC).

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated consecutive patients with chronic fatigue, brain fog, and orthostatic intolerance consistent with PASC. Controls included patients with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and healthy participants. Analyzed data included surveys and autonomic (Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, sudomotor, and tilt tests), cerebrovascular (cerebral blood flow velocity [CBFv] monitoring in middle cerebral artery), respiratory (capnography monitoring), and neuropathic (skin biopsies for assessment of small fiber neuropathy) testing and inflammatory/autoimmune markers.

Results

Nine patients with PASC were evaluated 0.8 ± 0.3 years after a mild COVID‐19 infection, and were treated as home observations. Autonomic, pain, brain fog, fatigue, and dyspnea surveys were abnormal in PASC and POTS (n = 10), compared with controls (n = 15). Tilt table test reproduced the majority of PASC symptoms. Orthostatic CBFv declined in PASC (−20.0 ± 13.4%) and POTS (−20.3 ± 15.1%), compared with controls (−3.0 ± 7.5%, p = 0.001) and was independent of end‐tidal carbon dioxide in PASC, but caused by hyperventilation in POTS. Reduced orthostatic CBFv in PASC included both subjects without (n = 6) and with (n = 3) orthostatic tachycardia. Dysautonomia was frequent (100% in both PASC and POTS) but was milder in PASC (p = 0.002). PASC and POTS cohorts diverged in frequency of small fiber neuropathy (89% vs 60%) but not in inflammatory markers (67% vs 70%). Supine and orthostatic hypocapnia was observed in PASC.

Interpretation

PASC following mild COVID‐19 infection is associated with multisystem involvement including: (1) cerebrovascular dysregulation with persistent cerebral arteriolar vasoconstriction; (2) small fiber neuropathy and related dysautonomia; (3) respiratory dysregulation; and (4) chronic inflammation. ANN NEUROL 2022;91:367–379
Human Oligodendrocyte Myelination Potential; Relation to Age and Differentiation
Authors: Luo Julia Xiao Xuan , Cui Qiao‐Ling , Yaqubi Moein , Hall Jeffery A. , Dudley Roy , Srour Myriam , Addour Nassima , Jamann Hélène , Larochelle Catherine , Blain Manon , Healy Luke M. , Stratton Jo Anne , Sonnen Joshua A. , Kennedy Timothy E. , Antel Jack P.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Myelin regeneration in the human central nervous system relies on progenitor cells within the tissue parenchyma, with possible contribution from previously myelinating oligodendrocytes (OLs). In multiple sclerosis, a demyelinating disorder, variables affecting remyelination efficiency include age, severity of initial injury, and progenitor cell properties. Our aim was to investigate the effects of age and differentiation on the myelination potential of human OL lineage cells.

Methods

We derived viable primary OL lineage cells from surgical resections of pediatric and adult brain tissue. Ensheathment capacity using nanofiber assays and transcriptomic profiles from RNA sequencing were compared between A2B5+ antibody‐selected progenitors and mature OLs (non‐selected cells).

Results

We demonstrate that pediatric progenitor and mature cells ensheathed nanofibers more robustly than did adult progenitor and mature cells, respectively. Within both age groups, the percentage of fibers ensheathed and ensheathment length per fiber were greater for A2B5+ progenitors. Gene expression of OL progenitor markers PDGFRA and PTPRZ1 were higher in A2B5+ versus A2B5− cells and in pediatric A2B5+ versus adult A2B5+ cells. The p38 MAP kinases and actin cytoskeleton‐associated pathways were upregulated in pediatric cells; both have been shown to regulate OL process outgrowth. Significant upregulation of “cell senescence” genes was detected in pediatric samples; this could reflect their role in development and the increased susceptibility of pediatric OLs to activating cell death responses to stress.

Interpretation

Our findings identify specific biological pathways relevant to myelination that are differentially enriched in human pediatric and adult OL lineage cells and suggest potential targets for remyelination enhancing therapies. ANN NEUROL 2022;91:178–191
Variants in Mitochondrial ATP Synthase Cause Variable Neurologic Phenotypes
Authors: Zech Michael , Kopajtich Robert , Steinbrücker Katja , Bris Céline , Gueguen Naig , Feichtinger René G. , Achleitner Melanie T. , Duzkale Neslihan , Périvier Maximilien , Koch Johannes , Engelhardt Harald , Freisinger Peter , Wagner Matias , Brunet Theresa , Berutti Riccardo , Smirnov Dmitrii , Navaratnarajah Tharsini , Rodenburg Richard J.T. , Pais Lynn S , Austin‐Tse Christina , O'Leary Melanie , Boesch Sylvia , Jech Robert , Bakhtiari Somayeh , Jin Sheng Chih , Wilbert Friederike , Kruer Michael C , Wortmann Saskia B. , Eckenweiler Matthias , Mayr Johannes A. , Distelmaier Felix , Steinfeld Robert , Winkelmann Juliane , Prokisch Holger
Published: December 2021

Objective

ATP synthase (ATPase) is responsible for the majority of ATP production. Nevertheless, disease phenotypes associated with mutations in ATPase subunits are extremely rare. We aimed at expanding the spectrum of ATPase‐related diseases.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing in cohorts with 2,962 patients diagnosed with mitochondrial disease and/or dystonia and international collaboration were used to identify deleterious variants in ATPase‐encoding genes. Findings were complemented by transcriptional and proteomic profiling of patient fibroblasts. ATPase integrity and activity were assayed using cells and tissues from 5 patients.

Results

We present 10 total individuals with biallelic or de novo monoallelic variants in nuclear ATPase subunit genes. Three unrelated patients showed the same homozygous missense ATP5F1E mutation (including one published case). An intronic splice‐disrupting alteration in compound heterozygosity with a nonsense variant in ATP5PO was found in one patient. Three patients had de novo heterozygous missense variants in ATP5F1A, whereas another 3 were heterozygous for ATP5MC3 de novo missense changes. Bioinformatics methods and populational data supported the variants’ pathogenicity. Immunohistochemistry, proteomics, and/or immunoblotting revealed significantly reduced ATPase amounts in association to ATP5F1E and ATP5PO mutations. Diminished activity and/or defective assembly of ATPase was demonstrated by enzymatic assays and/or immunoblotting in patient samples bearing ATP5F1A‐p.Arg207His, ATP5MC3‐p.Gly79Val, and ATP5MC3‐p.Asn106Lys. The associated clinical profiles were heterogeneous, ranging from hypotonia with spontaneous resolution (1/10) to epilepsy with early death (1/10) or variable persistent abnormalities, including movement disorders, developmental delay, intellectual disability, hyperlactatemia, and other neurologic and systemic features. Although potentially reflecting an ascertainment bias, dystonia was common (7/10).

Interpretation

Our results establish evidence for a previously unrecognized role of ATPase nuclear‐gene defects in phenotypes characterized by neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative features. ANN NEUROL 2022;91:225–237
Engineering Enzyme‐Cleavable Oligonucleotides by Automated Solid‐Phase Incorporation of Cathepsin B Sensitive Dipeptide Linkers
Authors: Jin Cheng , EI‐Sagheer Afaf H. , Li Siqi , Vallis Katherine A. , Tan Weihong , Brown Tom
Published: December 2021

Oligonucleotides containing cleavable linkers have emerged as versatile tools to achieve stimulus‐responsive and site‐specific cleavage of DNA. However, the limitations of previously reported cleavable linkers including photolabile and disulfide linkers have restricted their applications in vivo. Inspired by the cathepsin B‐sensitive dipeptide linkers in antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) such as Adcetris, we have developed Val‐Ala‐02 and Val‐Ala‐Chalcone phosphoramidites for the automated synthesis of enzyme‐cleavable oligonucleotides. Cathepsin B digests Val‐Ala‐02 and Val‐Ala‐Chalcone linkers efficiently, enabling cleavage of oligonucleotides into two components or release of small‐molecule payloads. Based on the prior success of dipeptide linkers in ADCs, we believe that these dipeptide linker phosphoramidites will promote new clinical applications of therapeutic oligonucleotides.
Fabrication of self‐healable thermoplastic polyurethane by masterbatch technology
Authors: Dasgupta Poulomi , Basak Sayan , Sengupta Srijoni , Das Tamalika , Pal Koushik , Bhattacharyya Sanjay K. , Bandyopadhyay Abhijit
Published: December 2021

This paper reports development of self‐healable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) compound through the mixing of masterbatches of TPU and EVA (poly [ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate]) (EVA) having various mole compositions. The aim was to promote a limited chemical interaction between TPU and EVA in the pristine compound that can enhance viscoelastic flow across the cut surface for autonomic healing. The healing was externally stimulated through microwave irradiation and the healing efficiency was determined from changes in tensile properties and complemented by image analysis. Infrared spectroscopy was used to detect TPU‐EVA crosslinking in the TPU compound, which was further delineated from viscoelastic and swelling results. Tensile properties demonstrated a drop in tensile modulus, strength, and elongation at break than original TPU on increasing EVA concentration, but those, at the same time, were retained until the fifth healing cycles with higher EVA concentration in the masterbatch. The healing mechanism was attributed to the destruction of the hard domain in TPU leading to a marked increase in viscoelastic mobility at the interface of the cut section. The pristine TPU modified with higher amount of EVA in the masterbatch exhibited the highest range of healing efficiency (sample CC0‐93%, sample BB0‐97%, respectively)), reinstated the hypothesis of mixing a higher amount of EVA to promote autonomic healing. EVA based TPU compounds with superior self‐healing property makes them an ideal candidate for applications in cable insulation and shape‐memory devices.
Modeling of dynamic mechanical curves of kenaf/polyester composites using surface response methodology
Authors: Ornaghi Heitor Luiz , Neves Roberta Motta , Monticeli Francisco Maciel , Thomas Sabu
Published: December 2021

The environmental and social concerns regarding environmental‐friendly materials lead to alternatives in replacing synthetic fibers for natural ones on polymeric composites. This study focused on modeling dynamic mechanical curves of kenaf/polyester composites using response surface methodology (RSM). Composites with three different reinforcement contents (13.5, 22.33, and 36.27 vol%) were produced and subjected to the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMTA). From the experimental DMTA curves, a 3D surface plot using RSM was done. The results showed that the fiber dynamic mechanical behavior and fiber/matrix interface had a low influence on the glass transition temperature but significantly changed the tan δ peak height. On the other hand, the kenaf fibers presented an enormous difference in the elastomeric region. The constrained region (calculated using the tan delta height) increased ~4 times for the composite reinforced with 36.27 vol% when compared to the composite reinforced with 13.5 vol%. The RSM enabled the viscoelastic modeling using different fiber volumes with high reliability and low error (R2 > 0.99). The RSM approach proved to be an intelligent and reliable technique to access a higher range of results, reducing experimental time and cost and keeping statistical significance. Also, the present methodology can be extended to model other properties and/or optimize parameters.
Aggregation behavior of the strong amphiphilic cationic diblock polyelectrolytes at the air/water interface
Authors: Ding Yanping , Wen Gangyao , Chrysostomou Varvara , Pispas Stergios , Jiang Kun , Sun Zhaoyan , Li Hongfei
Published: December 2021

Effects of subphase temperature and pH on the interfacial behavior of two strong amphiphilic cationic diblock polyelectrolytes, quaternized poly(2‐[dimethylamino]ethyl methacrylate)‐block‐poly(lauryl methacrylate) (qPDMAEMA‐b‐PLMA), were studied by the Langmuir film balance technique for the first time. The morphologies of their Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films were studied by atomic force microscopy. At the air/water interface, surface micelles with hydrophobic PLMA cores and hydrophilic qPDMAEMA coronas form. With the increase of temperature, the condensed surface pressure‐molecular area isotherms move to large area (right shift). The higher the temperature, the more obvious the isotherm shifts to the right. At low temperature, the isotherms of the two copolymers are almost respectively overlapped under different subphase pH conditions. At high temperature, however, the isotherms of the two copolymers show some subphase pH dependence. All initial LB films obtained at different subphase conditions exhibit isolated circular micelles. Under different subphase pH conditions, the diameters of the micelle cores in the two copolymers' LB films obtained at low temperature are close but larger than those at high temperature, which phenomenon is first reported. This is probably due to the relatively lower mobility of polymer individual chains at low temperature, resulting in their higher local surface concentration and larger aggregation.
Evaluation of polyphenylene sulfide by surface thermodynamics approaches: Comparison with common polymers
Authors: Ozbay Salih
Published: December 2021

Poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) is an advanced thermoplastic and widely used in industrial applications requiring high performance. Research on improving the surface properties of PPS is still ongoing and a detailed surface free energy (SFE) knowledge of this polymer is necessary for its applications related to surface wettability. In this study, wettability characteristics of PPS were evaluated by SFE calculations. For this purpose, the apparent contact angles of nine different test liquids having various surface tensions were measured on the PPS surface by the sessile drop method. After that, the dispersive and polar components of SFE were calculated using geometric (Owens and Wendt's method) and harmonic (Wu's method) mean approaches. The Lifshitz‐van der Waals, acidic and basic components of SFE were calculated using van Oss‐Chaudhury‐Good method. Additionally, the surface tension values of PPS were also determined by equation of state, Zisman's critical surface tension and Fowkes' approaches. In the present study, the effects of calculation methods and selected liquid pairs on SFE parameters were systematically investigated. It was found that selected liquid pairs and calculation methods affected the SFE considerably. The reasons for this were examined and the SFE components of PPS was compared with some common polymers for better evaluation.
Development and characterization of sodium alginate/bifidobacterium probiotic biohybrid material used in tissue engineering
Authors: Denktaş Cenk , Yilmaz Baysoy Derya , Bozdoğan Altan , Bozkurt Hüseyin Sancar , Bozkurt Kutsal , Özdemir Orhan , Yilmaz Mehmet
Published: December 2021

“Mechanical properties” are crucial for biodegradable and/or non‐biodegradable materials used in tissue engineering applications. In this study, bio‐hybrid films were produced by using both Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB‐12 probiotic strain and Bifidobacterium infantis in combination with sodium alginate (SA), which demonstrates biocompatibility and facilitated gelation properties. Bio‐hybrid films were characterized by using different methods. Based on the spectroscopic and mechanical analysis, it was found that mechanical strength increased in films produced by adding Bifidobacterium infantis in SA while this increase was relatively lower as compared to those containing Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB‐12 as cross‐linking ratio increases. Besides, bacteria contained in bio‐hybrid films increased the percentage of amorphous zone of SA in SA/bacteria films, which reduced the crystallinity ratio. This indicated that crystalline chains contained in the structure of SA are degraded by bacteria.
Characteristics and first‐year mortality, by lesion level, among infants with spina bifida in the New York State Birth Defects Registry, 2008–2017
Authors: Sullivan Anaclare M. , Herdt Michele
Published: December 2021

Background

Spina bifida is the most common neural tube defect. It has been associated with increased mortality, disability, and may require lifelong medical care. Higher‐level lesions have been shown to be associated with increased mortality in infants with spina bifida.

Methods

A study was conducted using data from infants with myelomeningocele and related spina bifida reported to the New York State Birth Defects Registry for birth years 2008 through 2017. Descriptive statistics were conducted. Cox regression was used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios for mortality by age one, by lesion level. Hazard ratios were adjusted for birthweight and maternal race/ethnicity.

Results

Overall survival at age one was 90.7%. Cervical‐level lesions had an increased risk of mortality compared to lumbar‐level lesions (HR 8.32; 95% CI: 2.56, 27.05). No statistically significant associations were found for sacral‐level lesions compared to lumbar‐level lesions.

Conclusion

These results suggest that infants with cervical‐level spina bifida have a higher risk of death by age one than those with other lesion levels.
Investigating and modeling the effect of light intensity on Rhodopseudomonas palustris growth
Authors: Ross Brandon S. , Pott Robert W. M.
Published: December 2021

Photosynthetic bacteria can be useful biotechnological tools—they produce a variety of valuable products, including high purity hydrogen, and can simultaneously treat recalcitrant wastewaters. However, while photobioreactors have been designed and modeled for photosynthetic algae and cyanobacteria, there has been less work on understanding the effect of light in photosynthetic bacterial fermentations. To design photobioreactors, and processes using these organisms, robust models of light penetration, utilization, and conversion are needed. This stydy uses experimental data from a tubular photobioreactor designed to focus in on light intensity effects, to model the effect of light intensity on the growth of Rhodopseudomonas palustris, a model photosynthetic bacterium. The work demonstrates that growth is controlled by light intensity, and that this organism does experience photolimitation below 200 W/m2 and photoinhibition above 600 W/m2. This has implications for outdoor applications, as there will be low growth during the periods of limited light, and growth may be inhibited during the light intensive hours of mid‐day. Further, the work presents a model for light penetration in cylindrical photobioreactors, which tends to be the most common geometry. The model developed showed good fit to the experimental data for each light intensity investigated, with high R2 values and NRMSE values all below 20%. The work extends the modeling tools for these organisms, and will allow for better photobioreactor design, and the integration of modeling tools in designing processes which use photosynthetic bacteria.
The added value of multi‐state modelling in a randomized controlled trial: The HOVON 102 study re‐analyzed
Authors: Bakunina Katerina , Putter Hein , Versluis Jurjen , Koster Eva A. S. , van der Holt Bronno , Manz Markus G. , Breems Dimitri A. , Gjertsen Bjorn T. , Cloos Jacqueline , Valk Peter J. M. , Passweg Jakob , Pabst Thomas , Ossenkoppele Gert J. , Löwenberg Bob , Cornelissen Jan J. , de Wreede Liesbeth C.
Published: December 2021

Clofarabine is an active antileukemic drug for subgroups of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Multi‐state models can provide additional insights to supplement the original intention‐to‐treat analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT). We re‐analyzed the HOVON102/SAKK30/09 phase III RCT for newly diagnosed AML patients, which randomized between standard induction chemotherapy with or without clofarabine. Using multi‐state models, we evaluated the effects of induction chemotherapy outcomes (complete remission [CR], measurable residual disease [MRD]), and post‐remission therapy with allogeneic stem cell transplantation [alloSCT] on relapse and death. Through the latter a consistent reduction in the hazard of relapse in the clofarabine arm compared to the standard arm was found, which occurred irrespective of MRD status or post‐remission treatment with alloSCT, demonstrating a strong and persistent antileukemic effect of clofarabine. During the time period between achieving CR and possible post‐remission treatment with alloSCT, non‐relapse mortality was higher in patients receiving clofarabine. An overall net benefit of treatment with clofarabine was identified using the composite endpoint current leukemia‐free survival (CLFS). In conclusion, these results enforce and extend the earlier reported beneficial effect of clofarabine in AML and show that multi‐state models further detail the effect of treatment on competing and series of events.
Neurobiology of cancer: Definition, historical overview, and clinical implications
Authors: Mravec Boris
Published: December 2021

Studies published in the last two decades have clearly demonstrated that the nervous system plays a significant role in carcinogenesis, the progression of cancer, and the development of metastases. These studies, combining oncological and neuroscientific approaches, created the basis for the emergence of a new field in oncology research, the so‐called “neurobiology of cancer.” The concept of the neurobiology of cancer is based on several facts: (a) psychosocial factors influence the incidence and progression of cancer diseases; (b) the nervous system affects DNA mutations and oncogene‐related signaling; (c) the nervous system modulates tumor‐related immune responses; (d) tumor tissues are innervated; (e) neurotransmitters released from nerves innervating tumor tissues affect tumor growth and metastasis; (f) alterations or modulation of nervous system activity affects the incidence and progression of cancers; (g) tumor tissue affects the nervous system. The aim of this review is to characterize the pillars that create the basis of cancer neurobiology, to describe recent research advances of the nervous system's role in cancer diseases, and to depict potential clinical implications for oncology.
Assessing fatigue in childhood cancer survivors: Psychometric properties of the Checklist Individual Strength and the Short Fatigue Questionnaire––a DCCSS LATER study
Authors: Penson Adriaan , Walraven Iris , Bronkhorst Ewald , Grootenhuis Martha A. , Tissing Wim J. E. , van der Pal Helena J. H. , de Vries Andrica C. H. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Neggers Sebastian , Versluys Birgitta A. B. , Louwerens Marloes , Pluijm Saskia M. F. , Blijlevens Nicole , van der Heiden‐van der Loo Margriet , Kremer Leontien C. M. , van Dulmen‐den Broeder Eline , Knoop Hans , Loonen Jacqueline
Published: December 2021

Background

Fatigue is often reported by patients with childhood cancer both during and after cancer treatment. Several instruments to measure fatigue exist, although none are specifically validated for use in childhood cancer survivors (CCS). The aim of the current study was to present norm values and psychometric properties of the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS) and Short Fatigue Questionnaire (SFQ) in a nationwide cohort of CCS.

Methods

In total, 2073 participants were included from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (DCCSS) LATER cohort. Normative data, construct validity, structural validity, and internal consistency were calculated for the CIS and SFQ. In addition, reliability and a cutoff score to indicate severe fatigue were determined for the SFQ.

Results

Correlations between CIS/SFQ and vitality measures asking about fatigue were high (>0.8). Correlations between CIS/SFQ and measures of different constructs (sleep, depressive emotions, and role functioning emotional) were moderate (0.4–0.6). Confirmatory factor analysis resulted in a four‐factor solution for the CIS and a one‐factor solution for the SFQ with Cronbach's alpha for each (sub)scale showing good to excellent values (>0.8). Test–retest reliability of the SFQ was adequate (Pearson's correlation = 0.88; ICC = 0.946; weighted Cohen's kappa item scores ranged 0.31–0.50) and a cut‐off score of 18 showed good sensitivity and specificity scores (92.6% and 91.3%, respectively).

Conclusion

The current study shows that the SFQ is a good instrument to screen for severe fatigue in CCS. The CIS can be used as a tool to assess the multiple fatigue dimensions in CCS.
Modified FOLFIRINOX versus sequential chemotherapy (FOLFIRI/FOLFOX) as a second‐line treatment regimen for unresectable pancreatic cancer: A real‐world analysis
Authors: Tezuka Shun , Ueno Makoto , Oishi Ritsuko , Nagashima Shuhei , Sano Yusuke , Kawano Kuniyuki , Tanaka Satoshi , Fukushima Taito , Asama Hiroyuki , Konno Naoki , Kobayashi Satoshi , Morimoto Manabu , Maeda Shin
Published: December 2021

Background

Although second‐line treatment for pancreatic cancer has been proven to have survival benefit, it is not clear which is the most preferred regimen. This study compared the efficacy and safety of modified FOLFIRINOX (mFOLFIRINOX) and sequential chemotherapy (FOLFIRI/FOLFOX) as a second‐line treatment regimen for unresectable pancreatic cancer.

Method

This was a retrospective single‐center analysis of all patients who initiated treatment with mFOLFIRINOX or sequential chemotherapy from December 2014 to May 2019 as a second‐line treatment for unresectable pancreatic cancer. The sequential chemotherapy group included all patients who initiated sequential chemotherapy. For efficacy analysis, the primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) of all patients, excluding those with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. For safety analysis, we assessed the incidence of grade ≥3 adverse events in all patients.

Results

Seventy‐four patients (mFOLFIRINOX group, n = 44; sequential chemotherapy group, n = 30) were included. OS tended to be slightly prolonged in the mFOLFIRINOX group than in the sequential chemotherapy group (median 10.6 [95% confidence interval {CI} 5.9–13.8] vs. 8.5 [95% CI 5.0–12.2] months; hazard ratio 1.40 [95% CI 0.71–2.71]). The objective response rate and disease control rate were 8.1% and 64.9%, respectively, in the mFOLFIRINOX group and 3.8% and 42.3%, respectively, in the sequential chemotherapy group. In safety analysis, the grade ≥3 rates of neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, and anorexia were 40.9%, 6.8%, and 18.2%, respectively, in the mFOLFIRINOX group and 3.3%, 0%, and 3.3%, respectively, in the sequential chemotherapy group.

Conclusions

Whereas efficacy tended to be slightly better in the mFOLFIRINOX group than in the sequential chemotherapy group, given the higher incidence of grade ≥3 adverse events with mFOLFIRINOX than with sequential chemotherapy, sequential chemotherapy is a regimen with better risk–benefit balance than mFOLFIRINOX, and can be considered a second‐line treatment option for patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer.
Development and prospective validation of a risk score model in guiding individualized concurrent chemoradiotherapy in stage II nasopharyngeal carcinoma in intensity‐modulated radiotherapy era
Authors: Yang Shan‐Shan , Pang Ya‐Jun , Wang Zhi‐Qiang , Zhang Bao‐Yu , Liu Zhi‐Qiao , Chen En‐Ni , OuYang Pu‐Yun , Xie Fang‐Yun
Published: December 2021

Purpose

We aimed to develop and prospectively validate a risk score model to guide individualized concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) for patients with stage II nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) era.

Materials and Methods

In total, 1220 patients who received CCRT or IMRT alone were enrolled in this study, including a training cohort (n = 719), a validation cohort (n = 307), and a prospective test cohort (n = 194). Patients were stratified into different risk groups by a risk score model based on independent prognostic factors, which were developed in the training cohort. Survival rates were compared by the log‐rank test. The validation and prospective test cohorts were used for validation.

Results

Total tumor volume, Epstein–Barr virus DNA, and lactate dehydrogenase were independent risk factors for failure‐free survival (FFS, all p < 0.05). A risk score model based on these three risk factors was developed to classify patients into low‐risk group (no risk factor, n = 337) and high‐risk group (one or more factors, n = 382) in the training cohort. In the high‐risk group, CCRT had better survival rates than IMRT alone (5‐year FFS: 82.6% vs. 74.0%, p = 0.028). However, there was no survival difference between CCRT and IMRT alone either in the whole training cohort (p = 0.15) or in the low‐risk group (p = 0.15). The results were verified in the validation and prospective test cohorts.

Conclusion

A risk score model was developed and prospectively validated to precisely select high‐risk stage II NPC patients who can benefit from CCRT, and thus guided individualized treatment in IMRT era.
Lead staff to work together in successful teams
Authors: Simula Brandy L.
Published: December 2021

Building and leading successful teams of staff members in your athletics department requires a set of professional skills that hinge on intentional practices and strategies. Yet far too few of us leading teams in higher ed settings have received sufficient — or often any — training in how to build and lead teams. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of learning to lead successful, productive, and inclusive teams, you're not alone.
Contract impacts outcome of WSU coach's request for religious exemption from vaccine mandate
Authors: Romano Robert J.
Published: December 2021

When Washington State University Athletics Director Pat Chun terminated Head Football Coach Nick Rolovich for cause, the school cited the reason, or cause, as the coach's failure to comply with Gov. Jay Inslee's executive order mandating all state employees to receive the COVID‐19 vaccine. At the time of his firing on Oct. 18, 2021, Rolovich was the highest‐paid state employee in Washington, with an annual salary of approximately $3.2 million. Because he was fired for cause, the former coach isn't entitled to receive the balance due under the terms of his contract, which would have been an amount that equates to approximately $9 million. Prior to Rolovich's termination, the university denied his request for a religious exemption to the vaccine mandate, which he allegedly sought based on his Catholic beliefs.
Bully for you: Learn the legal aspects of workplace bullying claims
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2021

Bullying is often seen as a K–12 problem, primarily as an issue between students. However, workplace bullying is another prevalent form of harassment in the education system, including at institutions of higher education overall, and even within athletics departments.
Title IX and tiering: Court of Appeals provides clarity
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: December 2021

Collegiate athletics departments of all sizes have used formal and informal tiering structures for years to differentiate the level of support that's provided to different teams. This type of grouping of teams at different levels historically allowed schools to maintain a large athletics program, but to invest in the individual teams in a manner that corresponded to their respective tier.
Did court rule in favor of coach's Title VII claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2021

An outside law firm investigated the head coach of the University of Minnesota Duluth's women's track team  after student‐athletes reported her for unwanted sexual comments and conduct. The head coach later resigned under threat of imminent termination due to the results of the investigation.
Living out core values helps pave the path to success
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: December 2021

When Alex Ricker‐Gilbert began leading Jacksonville University athletics, he set his mind on creating and implementing a distinct set of core values. The yearlong development process had a heavy emphasis on learning from coaches and staff. “Every department is unique and deserves its own set of core values for how it will achieve success,” he noted. So they focused on what made their department unique and how to develop values that would help them succeed.
A randomized controlled clinical trial of cardiac telerehabilitation with a prolonged mobile care monitoring strategy after an acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Dalli Peydró Ernesto , Sanz Sevilla Nuria , Tuzón Segarra María T. , Miró Palau Vicente , Sánchez Torrijos Jorge , Cosín Sales Juan
Published: December 2021

Background

Center‐based cardiac rehabilitation (CBCR) improves health outcomes but has some limitations. We designed and validated a telerehabilitation system to overcome these barriers.

Methods

We included 67 low‐risk acute coronary syndrome patients in a randomized controlled trial allocated 1:1 to a 10‐month cardiac telerehabilitation (CTR) program or an 8‐week CBCR program. Patients underwent ergospirometry, blood tests, anthropometric measurements, IPAQ, PREDIMED, HADS, and EQ‐5D questionnaires at baseline and 10 months. Data collectors were blinded to the treatment groups.

Results

The intention‐to‐treat analysis included 31 patients in the CTR group and 28 patients in the CBCR group. The primary outcome showed increased physical activity according to the IPAQ survey in the CTR group compared to the CBCR group (median increase 1726 METS‐min/week vs. 636, p = .045). Mean VO2max increased 1.62 ml/(kg min) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.56–2.69, p < .004) from baseline in the CTR group, and 0.60 mL/(kg min) (p = .40) in the CBCR group. Mean apoB/apoA‐I ratio decreased 0.13 (95% CI: −0.03 to 0.24, p = .017) in the CTR group, with no significant change in the CBCR group (p = .092). The median non‐HDL cholesterol increased by 7.3 mg/dl (IQR: −2.4 to 18.6, p = .021) in the CBCR group, but the increase was not significant in the CTR group (p = .080). Adherence to a Mediterranean diet, psychological distress, and quality of life showed greater improvement in the CTR group than in the CBCR group. Return‐to‐work time was reduced with the telerehabilitation strategy.

Conclusion

This system allows minimal in‐hospital training and prolonged follow‐up. This strategy showed better results than CBCR.
NT Pro‐BNP can be used as a risk predictor of clinical atrial fibrillation with or without left atrial enlargement
Authors: Zhao Xiao , Li Hao , Liu Cai , Ren Yuanyuan , Sun Chaofeng
Published: December 2021

Background

NT Pro‐BNP is a blood marker secreted by cardiomyocytes. Myocardial stretch is the main factor to stimulate NT Pro‐BNP secretion in cardiomyocytes. NT Pro‐BNP is an important risk factor for cardiac dysfunction, stroke, and pulmonary embolism. So does atrial myocyte stretching occur when patients have atrial fibrillation (AF)? Whether atrial muscle stretch induced by AF leads to increased NT Pro‐BNP remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between NT Pro‐BNP and AF.

Hypothesis

AF can cause changes in myocardial tension. Changes in myocardial tension may lead to increased secretion of NT Pro‐BNP. We hypothesize that NT Pro‐BNP may increase in AF with or without LAD enlargement.

Methods

This clinical study is an observational study and has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University. Ethical approval documents is attached. The study retrospectively reviewed 1345 patients with and without AF. After excluding 102 patients who were not eligible, the final total sample size was 1243 cases: AF group 679 patients (378, 55.7% males) and non‐AF group 564 patients (287, 50.8% males). NT Pro‐BNP was observed in AF group and non‐AF group with or without LAD. After adjusting for age, gender, BMI, left atrial diameter, hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and cerebral infarction, NT Pro‐BNP remains statistically significant with AF.

Conclusion

NT Pro‐BNP can be used as a risk predictor of AF with or without left atrial enlargement.
A Systematic Review and Analysis of the Use of Polygenic Scores in Pharmacogenomics
Authors: Johnson Danielle , Wilke MacKenzie A.P. , Lyle Sarah M. , Kowalec Kaarina , Jorgensen Andrea , Wright Galen E.B. , Drögemöller Britt I.
Published: December 2021

Polygenic scores (PGSs) have emerged as promising tools for complex trait risk prediction. The application of these scores to pharmacogenomics provides new opportunities to improve the prediction of treatment outcomes. To gain insight into this area of research, we conducted a systematic review and accompanying analysis. This review uncovered 51 papers examining the use of PGSs for drug‐related outcomes, with the majority of these papers focusing on the treatment of psychiatric disorders (n = 30). Due to difficulties in collecting large cohorts of uniformly treated patients, the majority of pharmacogenomic PGSs were derived from large‐scale genome‐wide association studies of disease phenotypes that were related to the pharmacogenomic phenotypes under investigation (e.g., schizophrenia‐derived PGSs for antipsychotic response prediction). Examination of the research participants included in these studies revealed that the majority of cohort participants were of European descent (78.4%). These biases were also reflected in research affiliations, which were heavily weighted towards institutions located in Europe and North America, with no first or last authors originating from institutions in Africa or South Asia. There was also substantial variability in the methods used to develop PGSs, with between 3 and 6.6 million variants included in the PGSs. Finally, we observed significant inconsistencies in the reporting of PGS analyses and results, particularly in terms of risk model development and application, coupled with a lack of data transparency and availability, with only three pharmacogenomics PGSs deposited on the Polygenic Score Catalog. These findings highlight current gaps and key areas for future pharmacogenomic PGS research.
Soehendra stent retriever as a useful delivery device of drainage stent for passing an impacted cystic duct stone in a patient with acute cholecystitis
Authors: Ban Tesshin , Kubota Yoshimasa , Takahama Takuya , Ando Tomoaki , Joh Takashi
Published: December 2021

Endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage is an alternative procedure for patients with acute cholecystitis. However, this procedure is technically challenging because the drainage stent is sometimes obstructed by an impacted cystic duct stone, even if the guidewire is advanced into the gallbladder. In this report, the front end of a standard endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography catheter was cut to an appropriate length as a drainage stent for transpapillary gallbladder drainage. However, this modified stent became stuck because of an impacted cystic duct stone. The Soehendra stent retriever was used as a stent delivery device in this setting. A Soehendra stent retriever with clockwise rotation was coupled with the drainage stent. Integrated devices provide a stent tip for pushability and torqueability. The stuck drainage stent at the impacted cystic duct stone resumed advancement into the gallbladder. After stent indwelling, decoupling was easy under counterclockwise rotation of the Soehendra stent retriever.
Drivers of alien species composition in bird markets across the world
Authors: Su Shan , Vall‐llosera Miquel , Cassey Phillip , Blackburn Tim M. , Carrete Martina , Tella José L.
Published: December 2021

The global pet trade is a major pathway for the introduction of invasive alien species. The composition of species selected for transport is driven by market demands, which may be influenced by a combination of both historical and cultural factors. We compared Eastern (Taiwan) and Western (Australia and the Iberian Peninsula) bird markets to explore factors associated with the species composition and geographic origin of the birds for sale. We used a bespoke randomization test to compare species composition, geographic origins, and species overlap at different taxonomic levels among bird markets across countries. Alien species identified in the study accounted for more than 10% of the world's bird species. Parrots and songbirds were the most common alien bird taxa traded across all markets. In both Iberian and Australian markets, there was a strong bias toward parrots, waxbills, gamebirds, and finches. In Taiwan, species traded more than expected were parrots, waxbills, starlings, and leafbirds. Neotropical species were the most traded group in the three markets. Afrotropical species were also traded more than expected in Iberian and Australian markets, while the Taiwanese traded more alien species from neighboring Asian regions. The bird trade focuses on the same few bird groups worldwide. The composition and origin of species preferred in the Western markets may be influenced by colonial histories, cultural similarity, and strict regulations on wildlife importation, while species preferences in Eastern markets are strongly influenced by regional culture and proximity. Propagule pressure is a dominant factor influencing the success of biological invasions; it is important to recognize differences in the composition of bird markets among regions because they can translate into different invasion risks, among other factors.
Acute and lagged fitness consequences for a sagebrush obligate in a post mega‐wildfire landscape
Authors: Anthony Christopher R. , Foster Lee J. , Hagen Christian A. , Dugger Katie M.
Published: December 2021

Species responses to disturbance influence their extinction risks. Greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) are bioindicators of sagebrush ecosystem health and the loss of sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) due to wildfire, can cause long‐term declines in sage‐grouse populations and other sagebrush obligate species. We examined the demographic response of a greater sage‐grouse population following a mega‐wildfire using stochastic age‐structured female‐based matrix models over 6 years (2013–2018). Notably, chick survival (range = 0.18–0.38) and female survival (yearling range: 0.20–0.68; adult range: 0.27–0.75) were low compared to values reported for greater sage‐grouse in other parts of their distribution. Greater sage‐grouse displayed variation in demographic tactics after the fire; however, adult female survival explained most of the variation in λ during each year, which reflected a declining population in 3 of 6 years with more uncertainty observed in 2015 when populations may have been increasing, and 2017 and 2018, when populations may have been declining. The continued annual population decline observed since 2016 suggested there were additional strong environmental impacts that may have been compounded by the fire effects, prolonging recovery of greater sage‐grouse. Our results support others that reported negative effects to greater sage‐grouse demographics from broad‐scale fire and provide a baseline for understanding how this species responds to loss of sagebrush cover based on their life history strategy.