bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Dynamic Calibration Uncertainty of Fast Response Pressure Probes
Authors: Boufidi Elissavet , Fontaneto Fabrizio 
Published: April 2021

AbstractIn this article, error sources affecting the dynamic calibration of fast-response pressure probes in shock tubes are examined. In particular, the sensors uncertainty, the uncertainty in the rising point of the pressure step, and the nonideality of the step are treated. The latter refers to the presence of pressure oscillations past the shock front, which are particularly important in the case of low-pressure shock tubes, typically used for the calibration of pressure probes for turbomachinery applications. The nonideality effect is investigated using a linear time invariant (LTI) second-order model for the transfer function of the probe’s line-cavity system and an existing analytical model for the post-shock oscillations. The effects of these uncertainty sources to the experimentally determined transfer function of a fast-response probe calibrated in the von Karman Institute (VKI) shock tube are finally presented.
Flexural Waves in Elastically Coupled Telescopic Metabeams
Authors: Prasad Rajan , Banerjee Arnab 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This paper investigates the flexural wave propagation through elastically coupled telescopic metabeams. It is assumed that the metabeam is formed by connecting successive beams with each other using distributed elastic springs. The equations of motion of a representative unit of the above-mentioned novel structural form are established by dividing it into three constitutive components that are two side beams, modeled employing the Euler–Bernoulli beam equation and an elastically coupled articulated distributed spring connection (ECADSC) at middle. ECADSC is modeled as parallel double beams connected by distributed springs. The underlying mechanics of this system in context of elastic wave propagation is unique when compared with the existing state of art in which local resonators, inertial amplifiers, etc. are attached to the beam to widen the attenuation bandwidth. The dynamic stiffness matrix is employed in conjunction with Bloch–Floquet theorem to derive the band structure of the system. It is identified that the coupling coefficient of the distributed spring layer and length ratio between the side beams and the elastic coupling plays the key role in the wave attenuation. It has been perceived that a considerable widening of the attenuation bandgap in the low frequency can be achieved while the elastically distributed springs are weak and distributed in a small stretch. Specifically, 140% normalized bandgap can be obtained only by tuning the stiffness and the length ratio without adding any added masses or resonators to the structure.
Implementation of Response Surface to Optimum Biodiesel Power Plant Derived From Empty Fruit Bunch
Authors: Sukpancharoen Somboon , Hansirisawat Poj , Srinophakun Thongchai R. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This study examined product separation in biodiesel power plants to optimize the process. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to identify the optimum parameters for the process of separation, to maximize profitability while also reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The mass and energy balance was assessed using aspen plus software, while RSM was carried out with design-expert software. Development of the characteristic equation determined that the model for gasoline yield, power generation, and carbon dioxide emissions was significant at the 95% confidence level. The R-squared value predicted by the model was found to be 0.97–1.00. In an optimal plant, profit can rise by 3836 USD over the year, while carbon dioxide emissions decline annually by 17.97 tons.
Association of macular and choroidal perfusion with long-term visual outcomes after macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Chua Jacqueline , Ke Mengyuan , Tan Bingyao , Gan Alfred Tau Liang , Lim Laurence S , Tan Gavin SW , Lee Shu Yen , Wong Edmund , Schmetterer Leopold , Cheung Ning 
Published: April 2021

Background/aimsTo examine the relationship between macular perfusion, as assessed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and long-term visual outcome after surgical repair of macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).MethodsA prospective study of 29 patients who had undergone successful surgical repair of macula-off RRD. OCTA imaging was performed at month 3 and repeated at months 6 and 12 after surgery. Associations between OCTA parameters including, foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, vessel density (VD) in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP), choriocapillaris flow deficit features and logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (VA) were assessed using a random intercept hybrid linear mixed model.ResultsOver the 1-year follow-up, VA improved (0.025 logMAR/ month, 95% CI 0.015 to 0.035) and FAZ area decreased (−0.020 mm2/month, 95% CI −0.032 to −0.007). Better VA after surgery was significantly associated with denser superficial VD (β=0.079, 95% CI 0.026 to 0.131), lower number of choriocapillaris flow deficits (β=−0.087, 95% CI −0.154 to −0.021) and larger average size of choriocapillaris flow deficits (β=0.085, 95% CI 0.022 to 0.147), after adjusting for baseline VA, types of surgery and other factors.ConclusionsOCTA measures of vascular perfusion in the macula may provide new pathophysiological insights and prognostic information related to macula-off RRD.
Effect of ultraprocessed food intake on cardiometabolic risk is mediated by diet quality: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Griffin Jennifer , Albaloul Anwar , Kopytek Alexandra , Elliott Paul , Frost Gary 
Published: April 2021

ObjectiveTo examine the effect of the consumption of ultraprocessed food on diet quality, and cardiometabolic risk (CMR) in an occupational cohort.DesignCross-sectional.SettingOccupational cohort.Participants53 163 British police force employees enrolled (2004–2012) into the Airwave Health Monitoring Study. A total of 28 forces across the UK agreed to participate. 9009 participants with available 7-day diet record data and complete co-variate data are reported in this study.Main outcome measuresA CMR and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension score were treated as continuous variables and used to generate measures of cardiometabolic health and diet quality. Secondary outcome measures include percentage of energy from fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, protein and non-milk extrinsic sugars (NMES) and fibre grams per 1000 kcal of energy intake.ResultsIn this cohort, 58.3%±11.6 of total energy intake was derived from ultraprocessed (NOVA 4) foods. Ultraprocessed food intake was negatively correlated with diet quality (r=−0.32, p<0.001), fibre (r=−0.20, p<0.001) and protein (r = −0.40, p<0.001) and positively correlated with fat (r=0.18, p<0.001), saturated fat (r=0.14, p<0.001) and nmes (r=0.10, p<0.001) intake . Multivariable analysis suggests a positive association between ultraprocessed food (NOVA 4) consumption and CMR. However, this main effect was no longer observed after adjustment for diet quality (p=0.209). Findings from mediation analysis indicate that the effect of ultraprocessed food (NOVA 4) intake on CMR is mediated by diet quality (p<0.001).ConclusionsUltraprocessed food consumption is associated with a deterioration in diet quality and positively associated with CMR, although this association is mediated by and dependent on the quality of the diet. The negative impact of ultraprocessed food consumption on diet quality needs to be addressed and controlled studies are needed to fully comprehend whether the relationship between ultraprocessed food consumption and health is independent to its relationship with poor diet quality.
Exploring physiotherapists’ and occupational therapists’ perceptions of the upper limb prediction algorithm PREP2 after stroke in a rehabilitation setting: a qualitative study
Authors: Lundquist Camilla Biering , Pallesen Hanne , Tjørnhøj-Thomsen Tine , Brunner Iris Charlotte 
Published: April 2021

ObjectiveTo explore how physiotherapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) perceive upper limb (UL) prediction algorithms in a stroke rehabilitation setting and identify potential barriers to and facilitators of their implementation.DesignThis was a qualitative study.SettingThe study took place at a neurorehabilitation centre.ParticipantsThree to six PTs and OTs.MethodsWe conducted four focus group interviews in order to explore therapists’ perceptions of UL prediction algorithms, in particular the Predict Recovery Potential algorithm (PREP2). The Consolidated Framework for advancing Implementation Research was used to develop the interview guide. Data were analysed using a thematic content analysis. Meaning units were identified and subthemes formed. Information gained from all interviews was synthesised, and four main themes emerged.ResultsThe four main themes were current practice, perceived benefits, barriers and preconditions for implementation. The participants knew of UL prediction algorithms. However, only a few had a profound knowledge and few were using the Shoulder Abduction Finger Extension test, a core component of the PREP2 algorithm, in their current practice. PREP2 was considered a potentially helpful tool when planning treatment and setting goals. A main barrier was concern about the accuracy of the algorithm. Furthermore, participants dreaded potential dilemmas arising from having to confront the patients with their prognosis. Preconditions for implementation included tailoring the implementation to a specific unit, sufficient time for acquiring new skills and an organisation supporting implementation.ConclusionIn the present study, experienced neurological therapists were sceptical towards prediction algorithms due to the lack of precision of the algorithms and concerns about ethical dilemmas. However, the PREP2 algorithm was regarded as potentially useful.
Processes of care and survival associated with treatment in specialist teenage and young adult cancer centres: results from the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort study
Authors: Fern Lorna A , Taylor Rachel M , Barber Julie , Alvarez-Galvez Javier , Feltbower Richard , Lea Sarah , Martins Ana , Morris Stephen , Hooker Louise , Gibson Faith , Raine Rosalind , Stark Dan P , Whelan Jeremy 
Published: April 2021

ObjectiveSurvival gains in teenagers and young adults (TYA) are reported to be lower than children and adults for some cancers. Place of care is implicated, influencing access to specialist TYA professionals and research.Consequently, age-appropriate specialist cancer care is advocated for TYA although systematic investigation of associated outcomes is lacking. In England, age-appropriate care is delivered through 13 Principal Treatment Centres (TYA-PTC). BRIGHTLIGHT is the national evaluation of TYA cancer services to examine outcomes associated with differing places and levels of care. We aimed to examine the association between exposure to TYA-PTC care, survival and documentation of clinical processes of care.DesignProspective cohort study.Setting109 National Health Service (NHS) hospitals across England.Participants1114 TYA, aged 13–24, newly diagnosed with cancer between 2012 and 2014.InterventionParticipants were assigned a TYA-PTC category dependent on the proportion of care delivered in a TYA-PTC in the first year after diagnosis: all care in a TYA-PTC (ALL-TYA-PTC, n=270), no care in a TYA-PTC (NO-TYA-PTC, n=359), and some care in a TYA-PTC with additional care in a children’s/adult unit (SOME-TYA-PTC, n=419).Primary outcomeData were collected on documented processes indicative of age-appropriate care using clinical report forms, and survival through linkage to NHS databases.ResultsTYA receiving NO-TYA-PTC care were less likely to have documentation of molecular diagnosis, be reviewed by a children’s or TYA multidisciplinary team, be assessed by supportive care services or have a fertility discussion. There was no significant difference in survival according to category of care. There was weak evidence that the association between care category and survival differed by age (p=0.08) with higher HRs for those over 19 receiving ALL or SOME-TYA-PTC compared with NO-TYA-PTC.ConclusionTYA-PTC care was associated with better documentation of clinical processes associated with age-appropriate care but not improved survival.
Clinicopathological predictors of survival in resected primary lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jhala Hiral , Harling Leanne , Rodrigo Alberto , Nonaka Daisuke , Mclean Emma , Ng Wen , Okiror Lawrence , Bille Andrea 
Published: April 2021

AimsPrimary lung adenocarcinoma consists of a spectrum of clinical and pathological subtypes that may impact on overall survival (OS). Our study aims to evaluate the impact of adenocarcinoma subtype and intra-alveolar spread on survival after anatomical lung resection and identify different prognostic factors based on stage and histological subtype.MethodsNewly diagnosed patients undergoing anatomical lung resections without induction therapy, for pT1-3, N0-2 lung adenocarcinoma from April 2011 to March 2013, were included. The effect of clinical–pathological factors on survival was retrospectively assessed.ResultsTwo hundred and sixty-two patients were enrolled. The 1-year, 3-year and 5-year OS were 88.8%, 64.3% and 51.1%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed lymphovascular, parietal pleural and chest wall invasion to confer a worse 1-year and 5-year prognosis (all p<0.0001). Solid predominant adenocarcinomas exhibited a significantly worse OS (p=0.014). Multivariate analysis did not identify solid subtype as an independent prognostic factor; however, identified stage >IIa, lymphovascular invasion (p=0.002) and intra-alveolar spread (p=0.009) as significant independent predictors of worse OS. Co-presence of intra-alveolar spread and solid predominance significantly reduced OS. Disease-free survival (DFS) was reduced with parietal pleural (p=0.0007) and chest wall invasion (p<0.0001), however, adenocarcinoma subtype had no significant impact on DFS.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that solid predominant adenocarcinoma, intra-alveolar spread and lymphovascular invasion confer a worse prognosis and should be used as a prognostic tool to determine appropriate adjuvant treatment.
Terroir of winter hardiness: bud LT50, water metrics, yield, and berry composition in Ontario Cabernet franc
Authors: Jasinski Mary K. , Reynolds Andrew G. , Di Profio Frederick A. , Brown Ralph B. , Pasquier Audrey , Touffet Maxime , Fellman Rea , Lee Hyun-Suk 
Published: April 2021

Winter hardiness may be influenced by vineyard terroir-driven factors, and vineyard zones with low water status [leaf water potential (ψ)] could be more winter hardy than vines with high water status (higher leaf ψ). Six Cabernet franc vineyards were chosen throughout the Niagara region in Ontario. Data were collected at fruit set, lag phase, and veraison [soil water content (SWC), leaf ψ], at harvest (yield components, berry composition), and three times during winter (LT50; the temperature at which 50% of buds die) in the 2010–2012 seasons. Interpolation by kriging and mapping of variables was completed using ArcGIS, and statistical analyses (linear correlation, k-means clustering, principal components analysis, multilinear regression) were performed. Spatial trends were observed in each vineyard for SWC, leaf ψ, yield components, berry composition, and LT50. Geographic information systems (GIS) and statistical analysis revealed that leaf ψ could predict LT50, with strong positive correlations between LT50and leaf ψ values in most vineyards in 2010–2011. In the dry 2012 season, leaf ψ (particularly at veraison; range −1.3 to −1.6 MPa) was positively correlated to LT50, yield, titratable acidity (TA), pH, and Brix and negatively to SWC, color, anthocyanins, and phenols. Overall, vineyards in different appellations (Niagara Lakeshore, Lincoln Lakeshore, Four Mile Creek, Beamsville Bench) showed many similarities. These results suggest that there is a spatial component to winter injury, as with other aspects of terroir. Furthermore, this study allows for means by which to compare winter hardiness to other critical variables to better understand the terroir of the Niagara region.
Reproductive Factors and Lung Cancer Risk among Never-Smoking Japanese Women with 21 Years of Follow-Up: A Cohort Study
Authors: Wilunda Calistus , Sawada Norie , Yamaji Taiki , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Tsugane Shoichiro 
Published: April 2021

AbstractBackground:Previous studies have reported inconsistent associations between reproductive factors and lung cancer.Methods:We used data from the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study, which included 400 incident lung cancer cases (305 adenocarcinoma) among 42,615 never-smoking women followed for a median of 21 years, to examine the associations of reproductive and hormonal factors with lung cancer by histological type using Cox proportional hazards models.Results:Longer fertility span (≥36 years vs. ≤32 years) was associated with increased risk of lung adenocarcinoma (HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.07–2.06, Ptrend = 0.01) but not with all lung cancer or nonadenocarcinoma. Similarly, late age at menopause (≥ 50 years) was associated with increased adenocarcinoma risk (vs. ≤ 47 years, HR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.01–1.96, Ptrend 0.04). Compared with premenopausal women, women with natural menopause (HR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.02–3.88) or surgical menopause (HR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.33–5.67) were at increased risk of adenocarcinoma. In contrast, breastfeeding was associated with reduced risk of nonadenocarcinoma (HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.28–0.92). No significant association with parity, age at first birth, exogenous hormone use, or length of menstrual cycle was detected.Conclusions:Reproductive factors may play a role in lung carcinogenesis. Future studies that include estrogen and progesterone biomarkers may help clarify the role of endogenous hormones in lung carcinogenesis.Impact:Fertility span and age at menopause may be useful variables in developing risk prediction models for lung adenocarcinoma among nonsmoking women.
Resting Heart Rate and Risk of Cancer Mortality
Authors: Gutierrez-Martinez Leidys , Brellenthin Angelique G. , Lefferts Elizabeth C. , Lee Duck-chul , Sui Xuemei , Lavie Carl J. , Blair Steven N. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Background:
Increased resting heart rate (RHR) is a predictor of mortality. RHR is influenced by cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Little is known about the combined associations of RHR and CRF on cancer mortality.

Methods:
50,108 men and women (mean age 43.8 years) were examined between 1974 and 2002 at the Cooper Clinic in Dallas, Texas. RHR was measured by electrocardiogram and categorized as &lt;60, 60–69, 70–79, or ≥80 beats/minute. CRF was quantified by maximal treadmill test and dichotomized as unfit and fit corresponding to the lower 20% and the upper 80%, respectively, of the age- and sex-specific distribution of treadmill exercise duration. The National Death Index was used to ascertain vital status. Cox regression was used to compute HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for cancer mortality across RHR categories.

Results:
During a mean follow-up of 15.0 ± 8.6 years, 1,090 cancer deaths occurred. Compared with RHR &lt;60 beats/minute, individuals with RHR ≥80 beats/minute had a 35% increased risk of overall cancer mortality (HR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.06–1.71) after adjusting for confounders, including CRF. Compared with “fit and RHR &lt;80 beats/minute”, HRs (95% CI) for cancer mortality were 1.41 (1.20–1.66), 1.51 (1.11–2.04), and 1.78 (1.30–2.43) in “unfit and RHR &lt;80,” “fit and RHR ≥80,” and “unfit and RHR ≥80 beats/minute,” respectively.

Conclusions:
RHR ≥80 beats/minute is associated with an increased risk of overall cancer mortality. High CRF may help lower the risk of cancer mortality among those with high RHR.

Impact:
RHR along with CRF may provide informative data about an individual's cancer mortality risk.
Genome-wide Copy-number Alterations in Circulating Tumor DNA as a Novel Biomarker for Patients with High-grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Paracchini Lara , Beltrame Luca , Grassi Tommaso , Inglesi Alessia , Fruscio Robert , Landoni Fabio , Ippolito Davide , Delle Marchette Martina , Paderno Mariachiara , Adorni Marco , Jaconi Marta , Romualdi Chiara , D'Incalci Maurizio , Siravegna Giulia , Marchini Sergio 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Purpose:
High-grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer (HGS-EOC) is defined by high levels of somatic copy-number alterations (SCNA) with marked spatial and temporal tumor heterogeneity. Biomarkers serving to monitor drug response and detect disease recurrence are lacking, a fact which reflects an unmet clinical need.

Experimental Design:
A total of 185 plasma samples and 109 matched tumor biopsies were collected from 46 patients with HGS-EOC, and analyzed by shallow whole-genome sequencing (sWGS). The percentage of tumor fraction (TF) in the plasma was used to study the biological features of the disease at the time of diagnosis (T0) and correlated with patients' survival. Longitudinal analysis of TF was correlated with CA-125 levels and radiological images to monitor disease recurrence.

Results:
Gain in the clonal regions, 3q26.2 and 8q24.3, was observed in the 87.8% and 78.05% of plasma samples, suggesting that plasma sWGS mirrors solid biopsies. At T0, multivariate analysis revealed that plasma TF levels were an independent prognostic marker of relapse (P &lt; 0.022). After platinum (Pt)-based treatment, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis showed a change in the heterogeneous pattern of genomic amplification, including an increased frequency of amplification, compared with before Pt-based treatment in the 19p31.11 and 19q13.42 regions. TF in serially collected ctDNA samples outperformed CA-125 in anticipating clinical and radiological progression by 240 days (range, 37–491).

Conclusions:
Our results support the notion that sWGS is an inexpensive and useful tool for the genomic analysis of ctDNA in patients with HGS-EOC to monitor disease evolution and to anticipate relapse better than serum CA-125, the routinely used clinical biomarker.
See related commentary by Dhani, p. 2372
Tumor Immune Microenvironment during Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Taki Mana , Abiko Kaoru , Ukita Masayo , Murakami Ryusuke , Yamanoi Koji , Yamaguchi Ken , Hamanishi Junzo , Baba Tsukasa , Matsumura Noriomi , Mandai Masaki 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been shown to play a critical role in tumor development from initiation to metastasis. EMT could be regarded as a continuum, with intermediate hybrid epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes having high plasticity. Classical EMT is characterized by the phenotype change of epithelial cells to cells with mesenchymal properties, but EMT is also associated with multiple other molecular processes, including tumor immune evasion. Some previous studies have shown that EMT is associated with the cell number of immunosuppressive cells, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and the expression of immune checkpoints, such as programmed cell death-ligand 1, in several cancer types. At the molecular level, EMT transcriptional factors, including Snail, Zeb1, and Twist1, produce or attract immunosuppressive cells or promote the expression of immunosuppressive checkpoint molecules via chemokine production, leading to a tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. In turn, immunosuppressive factors induce EMT in tumor cells. This feedback loop between EMT and immunosuppression promotes tumor progression. For therapy directly targeting EMT has been challenging, the elucidation of the interactive regulation of EMT and immunosuppression is desirable for developing new therapeutic approaches in cancer. The combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and immunotherapy targeting immunosuppressive cells could be a promising therapy for EMT.