bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of contractors’ opportunism on construction project transaction costs
Authors: Ikuabe Matthew , Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Aigbavboa Clinton 
Published: February 2020

Purpose
There is a growing concern of the non-balance of the final output of construction works in comparison the financial resources invested with during the course of construction projects. One propelling factor to this is the opportunistic disposition often sought out by construction contractors. This study aims to investigate the relationship between construction contractors’ opportunism and construction project transaction costs from the viewpoint of construction professionals.

Design/methodology/approach
Questionnaire survey was deployed in eliciting responses from construction professionals. A total of 337 questionnaires were distributed and 264 were retrieved and deemed fit for analysis. Methods of data analysis used for the study are Mean Item Score, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, Student Newman Kauls Post Hoc Test, Factor Analysis, Spearman Rank Correlation and Regression Analysis.

Findings
The study showed that the most-ranked factor influencing contractors’ opportunism that affects transaction cost is “Unclear scope of work”. Revealed from the study is the differing view of construction professionals of the effect of contractors’ opportunism on transaction costs. Equally revealed through Spearman correlation analysis is the potent effect that contractors’ opportunism has on transaction costs. Likewise, the study established that there is a discovered difference among construction professionals’ perceived effect of contractors’ opportunism on construction transaction costs.

Originality/value
The study establishes the nexus between construction contractors’ opportunistic disposition and construction transaction costs, which are shown to be highly correlated. The study went further to recommend that efforts should be made to ensure that issues like contract documentation should be well and appropriately carried out; roles and responsibilities of stakeholders should be well defined so as to fully keep all parties to a contract abreast with the expectations of their duties in relation to the project objectives.
Effects of high‐pressure processing on fungi spores: Factors affecting spore germination and inactivation and impact on ultrastructure
Authors: Pinto Carlos A. , Moreira Sílvia A. , Fidalgo Liliana G. , Inácio Rita S. , Barba Francisco J. , Saraiva Jorge A. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractFood contamination with heat‐resistant fungi (HRF), and their spores, is a major issue among fruit processors, being frequently found in fruit juices and concentrates, among other products, leading to considerable economic losses and food safety issues. Several strategies were developed to minimize the contamination with HRF, with improvements from harvesting to the final product, including sanitizers and new processing techniques.Considering consumers’ demands for minimally processed, fresh‐like food products, nonthermal food‐processing technologies, such as high‐pressure processing (HPP), among others, are emerging as alternatives to the conventional thermal processing techniques. As no heat is applied to foods, vitamins, proteins, aromas, and taste are better kept when compared to thermal processes. Nevertheless, HPP is only able to destroy pathogenic and spoilage vegetative microorganisms to levels of pertinence for food safety, while bacterial spores remain. Regarding HRF spores (both ascospores and conidiospores), these seem to be more pressure‐sensible than bacterial spores, despite a few cases, such as the ascospores of Byssochlamys spp., Neosartorya spp., and Talaromyces spp. that are resistant to high pressures and high temperatures, requiring the combination of both variables to be inactivated.This review aims to cover the literature available concerning the effects of HPP at room‐like temperatures, and its combination with high temperatures, and high‐pressure cycling, to inactivate fungi spores, including the main factors affecting spores’ resistance to high‐pressure, such as pH, water activity, nutritional composition of the food matrix and ascospore age, as well as the changes in the spore ultrastructure, and the parameters to consider regarding their inactivation by HPP.
Distant supervision of trainee emergency physicians undertaking a remote placement: A preliminary evaluation
Authors: Gill Stephen D , Stella Julian , Blazeska Marija , Bartley Bruce 
Published: February 2020

AbstractObjectiveClinical supervision is an essential part of post‐graduate medical training. The current study investigated emergency medicine trainees' experiences and preferences regarding distant supervision via information and communication technology (ICT).MethodsFour emergency medicine trainees completed a 6‐month placement, one at a time, at a rural urgent care centre. Trainees were remotely supervised by emergency physicians located at another ED using ICT. Trainees recorded the frequency and content of their distant supervision experiences. Trainees also completed semi‐structured interviews before and after the placement to describe their experiences and preferences regarding distant supervision. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively using counts and proportions. Qualitative data were analysed using the principles of thematic analysis.ResultsTrainees provided care to 1458 patients and communicated with a supervisor for 126 (8.6%) patients. Phone or audio‐visual ICT was used for 111 (88.1%) and 12 (9.5%) patients, respectively. Trainees described the placement as a unique learning experience that demanded independent practice, enhanced their communication and leadership skills and increased their confidence. The trainees also described disadvantages to the placement such as reduced quality and quantity of communication with supervisors, ICT failure and the supervisor's inability to provide hands‐on assistance. Trainees provided their perspectives on the essential requirements of a successful remote placement that involved distant supervision.ConclusionsAccording to trainees, distant supervision had positive and negative effects on their supervision experiences, professional development and on patient management. Trainees used ICT infrequently. The trainee's perspectives on the ideal components of a remote placement programme are presented.
Bioactive peptides from brown rice protein hydrolyzed by bromelain: Relationship between biofunctional activities and flavor characteristics
Authors: Selamassakul Orrapun , Laohakunjit Natta , Kerdchoechuen Orapin , Yang Liping , Maier Claudia S. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractThis study evaluated the biological properties of peptides from brown rice protein hydrolyzed by bromelain (eb‐RPH) in relation to flavor characteristic. The fractionation into peptides < 1 kDa was observed to improve the DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radical‐scavenging activities (0.19, 2.28, and 24.64 mM Trolox, respectively), angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE)‐inhibitory activity (IC50 value of 0.20 ± 0.011 mg protein/mL), as well as bitter and umami tastes. The < 1 kDa fraction was further analyzed by liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry to identify amino acid sequence associated with biological activities and flavor characteristics. Eight peptides were identified. Most of the identified peptides contained features of previously reported ACE inhibitory and antioxidant peptides, especially peptide FGGSGGPGG and FGGGGAGAGG. Evaluation of flavor characteristics using BIOPEP database demonstrated that they had high occurrence frequencies of umami peptides (ESDVVSDL, GSGVGGAK, and SSVGGGSAG) and low Q‐value (938.75 to 282.22), suggesting that these peptides may be used as a fortifying health ingredient with good taste.Practical ApplicationThe fractionated brown rice protein hydrolysate (< 1 kDa) has the potential to serve as a functional food ingredient in nutraceutical food and beverage products that can provide health benefits with good taste. Information on amino acid composition and spatial conformation of peptide may aid us to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved in bioactivities and flavor of brown rice peptide for industrial applications.
Percutaneous thermal ablation alone or in combination with cementoplasty for renal cell carcinoma osseous metastases: Pain palliation and local tumour control
Authors: Tomasian Anderanik , Madaelil Thomas P , Wallace Adam N , Wiesner Elizabeth , Jennings Jack W 
Published: February 2020

AbstractIntroductionTo evaluate the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive percutaneous thermal ablation alone or in combination with cementoplasty for pain palliation and local tumour control of renal cell carcinoma osseous metastases.MethodsImaging‐guided thermal ablation was performed in 59 renal cell carcinoma osseous metastatic tumours in 23 patients (concomitant cementoplasty in 43 tumours) selected following multidisciplinary consultations to achieve local tumour control and pain palliation (75%, 44/59) or pain palliation alone (25%, 15/59) in this retrospective study. Tumour characteristics, procedural details and complications were documented. Pain palliation was assessed using pre‐ and post‐procedural Numeric Rating Scale scores at 1‐week, 1‐month, 3‐month and 6‐month time intervals. Pre‐ and post‐procedural cross‐sectional imaging was reviewed to assess local tumour control rates at 3‐month, 6‐month, and 12‐month post‐treatment time intervals.ResultsAll procedures were technically successful and performed as pre‐operatively planned. The median pre‐ and post‐procedural Numeric Rating Scale scores were 8.0 and 3.0 (at all time intervals), respectively (P < 0.001). Local tumour control rates were 100% (40/40), 100% (36/36) and 85% (28/33) at ≥3 months, ≥6 months and ≥12 months post‐procedural time intervals, respectively. There was 1 minor complication (1.7%, 1/59).ConclusionsPercutaneous thermal ablation alone or in combination with cementoplasty is safe and effective for pain palliation and local tumour control of renal cell carcinoma osseous metastases.
Long‐term response with durvalumab after chemoradiotherapy for pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Yorozuya Takafumi , Taya Tetsuya , Yasuda Kento , Nagano Yutaro , Shioya Makoto , Chiba Hirofumi , Takahashi Hiroki 
Published: February 2020

Pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma (PPC) is a non‐small‐cell lung cancer, resistant to chemotherapy and no standard therapy has as yet been established. We herein report the case of a 59‐year‐old man with PPC who showed a long‐term response with durvalumab after chemoradiotherapy. He was referred to our hospital with a mass shadow at the right upper lung. PPC clinical stage IIIB was diagnosed, and the tumor proportion score of programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) was 100%. Six days after transbronchial biopsy, he had difficulty walking owing to sensory abnormalities. We found that the primary tumor had invaded the spinal cord and compressed the cord at T1–T4, resulting in the abnormalities. He underwent tumor resection and received chemotherapy involving cisplatin (CDDP) + S‐1 and concurrent radiotherapy (66 Gy). Subsequently, durvalumab treatment as consolidation therapy was commenced. After one year of durvalumab treatment had been completed, he had no apparent signs of relapse or severe adverse events. This case suggests that a long‐term response can be achieved with durvalumab after chemoradiotherapy for stage III inoperable PPC showing high PD‐L1 expression.Key PointsSignificant findings of the reportA long‐term response might be achieved with durvalumab after chemoradiotherapy in patients with stage III inoperable pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma showing high expression of programmed death‐ligandWhat this study addsIt is possible to continue durvalumab treatment for one year without any severe adverse events. Although pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma is considered to have a poor prognosis, the combination therapy of immune checkpoint inhibitors and radiotherapy may be an effective treatment option.
Utility of CT radiomics for prediction of PD‐L1 expression in advanced lung adenocarcinomas
Authors: Yoon Jiyoung , Suh Young Joo , Han Kyunghwa , Cho Hyoun , Lee Hye‐Jeong , Hur Jin , Choi Byoung Wook 
Published: February 2020

BackgroundWe aimed to assess if quantitative radiomic features can predict programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression in advanced stage lung adenocarcinoma.MethodsThis retrospective study included 153 patients who had advanced stage (>IIIA by TNM classification) lung adenocarcinoma with pretreatment thin section computed tomography (CT) images and PD‐L1 expression test results in their pathology reports. Clinicopathological data were collected from electronic medical records. Visual analysis and radiomic feature extraction of the tumor from pretreatment CT were performed. We constructed two models for multivariate logistic regression analysis (one based on clinical variables, and the other based on a combination of clinical variables and radiomic features), and compared c‐statistics of the receiver operating characteristic curves of each model to identify the model with the higher predictability.ResultsAmong 153 patients, 53 patients were classified as PD‐L1 positive and 100 patients as PD‐L1 negative. There was no significant difference in clinical characteristics or imaging findings on visual analysis between the two groups (P > 0.05 for all). Rad‐score by radiomic analysis was higher in the PD‐L1 positive group than in the PD‐L1 negative group with a statistical significance (−0.378 ± 1.537 vs. −1.171 ± 0.822, P = 0.0008). A prediction model that uses clinical variables and CT radiomic features showed higher performance compared to a prediction model that uses clinical variables only (c‐statistic = 0.646 vs. 0.550, P = 0.0299).ConclusionsQuantitative CT radiomic features can predict PD‐L1 expression in advanced stage lung adenocarcinoma. A prediction model composed of clinical variables and CT radiomic features may facilitate noninvasive assessment of PD‐L1 expression.Key pointsSignificant findings of the studyQuantitative CT radiomic features can help predict PD‐L1 expression, whereas none of the qualitative imaging findings is associated with PD‐L1 positivity.What this study addsA prediction model composed of clinical variables and CT radiomic features may facilitate noninvasive assessment of PD‐L1 expression.
Language counts when learning mathematics with interactive apps
Authors: Outhwaite Laura A. , Gulliford Anthea , Pitchford Nicola J. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractWhen available in multiple languages, educational apps can deliver the same mathematics instruction in the child’s first language or different language of instruction. This pilot study examined the feasibility of a maths app intervention compared to standard mathematical practice with 61 children aged 5–6 years attending a bilingual immersion school in Brazil. The apps were delivered in either the child’s first (L1, Brazilian Portuguese) or second (L2, English) language, while app content, time on task, and school setting were consistent across the two treatment groups. Time on task in the comparison group was less. After 10 weeks, results showed children made significant mathematical learning gains with the apps, for both languages of instruction, compared to standard practice: the finding is discussed in relation to the threat of time spent on task. Children using the apps in Brazilian Portuguese (L1) completed more app topics than children using the apps in English (L2) and proficiency in language of instruction correlated positively with app progress. As children’s L1 was significantly stronger than their L2 proficiency, this suggests the apps were most effectively implemented in their L1. This study advances the conjoining of bilingual educational theories to educational apps in a controlled, real‐world, bilingual immersion setting and highlights important directions for improving app‐based mathematics instruction for bilingual children.
Practitioner NotesWhat is already known about this topic

Educational maths apps, available in multiple languages are increasingly popular.
Emerging evidence demonstrates the benefits of maths apps for supporting children’s mathematical development.
To understand “what works” in the use of maths apps we need to consider factors that may impact outcomes, including children’s proficiency in the language of instruction.
What this paper adds

When delivered in the child’s first or second language, maths apps can support the acquisition of basic maths skills.
To maximise engagement and learning with maths apps, children should have a sufficient level of proficiency in the language of instruction.
Implications for practice and/or policy

When deciding to implement maths apps with young children, educational practitioners and parents should consider the individual child’s proficiency in the languages spoken.
Platform switch hybrid zygoma implants improve prosthetics and marginal bone protection after extra‐sinus placement
Authors: Aleksandrowicz Paweł , Kusa‐Podkańska Marta , Tomkiewicz Witold , Kotuła Lidia , Perek Jan , Wysokińska‐Miszczuk Joanna 
Published: February 2020

AbstractPurposeThe aim of our studdy is clinical evaluation of Platform switch hybrid zygoma implants.Materials and Methods117 zygomatic implants were followed up during this time. They included 55 Brånemark System zygoma implants, 38 Noris implants, and 24 novel iRES hybrid implants with platform switch.ResultsBone quality and quantity are the prerequisite for successful implant treatment. Zygomatic implants are intended for patients with severely resorbed maxilla that cannot accommodate conventional implants without prior extensive bone grafting. Such regenerative procedures, like sinus lifts, prolong implant rehabilitation to several months (12–18). Furthermore, extensive grafts are less predictable showing varying degrees of graft resorption. Zygoma implants enable full, often immediate, reconstruction of the upper dental arch without the need for sinus lift treatment. The original zygoma protocol runs the implants through the sinus, requires general anesthesia, and positions the prosthetic platform of the implants on the palate, which makes prosthesis cumbersome. It also induces risk for post‐op sinusitis. Extra‐sinus approach with novel zygoma hybrid implants bypasses sinuses and positions the implant prosthetic platform on the crest allowing for same good prosthetics as on conventional dental implants. Furthermore, crestal threads and a platform‐switch, of the novel zygoma design, increase implant anchorage and minimize marginal bone loss. The study presents evolution of zygoma implant rehabilitation protocol and zygoma implant design in our clinical practice over 15 years (2004‐2019).ConclusionExtra‐sinus zygomatic implant placement lowers the risk of post‐op sinusitis and makes procedure possible to be done in local anesthesia.
Diaphragm thickening assessed by ultrasonography is lower than healthy adults in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Okura Kazuki , Iwakura Masahiro , Shibata Kazuyuki , Kawagoshi Atsuyoshi , Sugawara Keiyu , Takahashi Hitomi , Satake Masahiro , Shioya Takanobu 
Published: February 2020

AbstractBackgroundUltrasound imaging has been widely used for imaging of the diaphragm thickness (Tdi) and thickening. Few studies assessed the Tdi using ultrasonography in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We measured the Tdi and thickening in patients with COPD compared with healthy younger and healthy older adults to reveal the influence of ageing and/or COPD.MethodsThirty‐eight male patients with COPD (age 72 ± 8 years), 15 healthy younger (age 22 ± 1 years) and 15 healthy older (age 72 ± 5 years) male volunteers were recruited. We measured Tdi at total lung capacity (TdiTLC), functional residual capacity (TdiFRC) and residual volume (TdiRV) using B‐mode ultrasonography. We calculated the change ratio of TdiTLC and TdiRV (ΔTdi%). We used a one‐way analysis of variance and multiple comparison test for the comparison analysis.ResultsThe TdiTLC and the ΔTdi% were significantly lower in patients with COPD compared to the healthy adults. There was no significant difference in these values with age. There was no between group difference in the TdiFRC or TdiRV.ConclusionsOur results indicate significant differences in TdiTLC and ΔTdi% between patients with COPD and healthy adults. Therefore, diaphragm ultrasonography can assess diaphragm dysfunction associated with COPD. We suggest that it is better to use TdiTLC and ΔTdi% (not only Tdi at rest) to assess diaphragm function.
Identification of a novel cystic fibrosis mutation in three patients of South Asian descent
Authors: Semple Aisling , Clark Tara , Allen Nicholas M. , Krishnananthan Thanuja , Nwokoro Chinedu , Girodon Emmanuelle , Porzio Michele , Herzig Mary 
Published: February 2020

AbstractIntroductionThe cystic fibrosis (CF) clinical profile and associated CFTR mutation spectrum is poorly understood in the South Asian population. This is likely due to the lack of diagnostic resources and the absence of a centralised CF database and screening programme, despite a relatively large proportion of the global population.MethodsFollowing identification of a previously unreported CFTR mutation (c.2805_2810delinsTCAGA; p.(Pro936Ginfs*6)) in a newly diagnosed patient of Indian descent, we interrogated national registries for other cases.ResultsWe identified three European‐born subjects of South Asian descent with CF due to a novel CFTR mutation. All three subjects presented in infancy and each had a severe phenotype with intestinal complications as a presenting feature. Two subjects were diagnosed prior to the advent of universal screening. Preliminary genetic screening failed to identify the causative mutation in all three patients.ConclusionOur work highlights the value of extended or targeted genotyping in selected populations. It also demonstrates the benefit of routine collaboration between national registries. This will promote the identification of novel mutations; leading to greater understanding of genotype‐phenotype associations, improved individual prognostication and ultimately the improved availability of novel precision therapies. This collaboration is essential if we are to achieve health equality for people with CF living in resource‐limited settings.