bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Treatment Outcomes for Adult Patients with Localized Osteosarcoma Treated with Chemotherapy without Methotrexate
Authors: Silva MRM , Bonadio RC , Matos GDR , Toloi D , Nardo M , Munhoz RM , Zampieri CLCB , Reboledo Daniel , Correa LFM , Baptista AM , Feher O , Camargo VP 
Published: May 2020

AbstractBackgroundStandard treatment for pediatric patients with localized osteosarcoma include high-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) and cure rates greater than 60% are observed. In adult patients, however, the toxicity profile limits the use of HDMTX and it is usually excluded from chemotherapy protocols for this group. We aimed to evaluate the outcomes of adult patients with localized osteosarcoma treated with chemotherapy without methotrexate.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort, we evaluated adult patients with high-grade osteosarcoma who received treatment with chemotherapy without methotrexate in a reference cancer center from 2007 to 2018. Outcomes analyzed were recurrence-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and prognostic factors associated with overall survival.ResultsA total of 48 patients had localized disease and received treatment with chemotherapy without methotrexate. The majority of them received chemotherapy with a combination of cisplatin and doxorubicin (N=42, 87.5%). Median age was 27 years. (range 16.8 – 66.7) With a median follow-up of 29.2 months, median RFS was 29.9 months. Median OS was not reached. 5-year RFS and OS rates were 35.1% (95% CI 20.3 – 50.2%) and 71.6% (95% CI 52.3 – 84.2%), respectively. Patients who received cumulative doses of doxorubicin ≥ 375 mg/m2 had better OS than those who received lower doses (HR 0.26, 95% CI 0.07 – 0.94, P = 0.041). Similarly, patients who received ≥ 6 cycles of neoadjuvant/ adjuvant cisplatin tended to have better OS than those who received < 6 cycles (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.08 – 1.09, P = 0.069).Nineteen patients received less than 6 cycles of cisplatin and doxorubicin mainly because of grade 3 or 4 toxicities (11), disease progression (6),patient refusal(1), physician choice(1).ConclusionIn our study, adult patients with localized high-grade osteosarcoma who were treated with chemotherapy without methotrexate had unfavorable outcomes. The cumulative doxorubicin dose and the number of cisplatin/doxorubicin cycles were associated with improved OS. The investigation of additional treatment strategies is of utmost importance to improve adult patients outcomes.
Modelling the SARS-CoV-2 first epidemic wave in Greece: social contact patterns for impact assessment and an exit strategy from social distancing measures
Authors: Sypsa Vana , Roussos Sotirios , Paraskevis Dimitrios , Lytras Theodore , Sotirios Tsiodras S , Hatzakis Angelos 
Published: May 2020

AbstractIn Greece, a nationwide lockdown to mitigate the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 was imposed on March 23, 2020. As by the end of April the first epidemic wave is waning, it is important to assess the infection attack rate and quantify the impact of physical distancing. We implemented a survey to assess social mixing patterns before the epidemic and during lockdown. We estimated R0from surveillance data and assessed its decline as a result of physical distancing based on social contacts data. We applied a Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered model to estimate the infection attack rate and the infection fatality ratio (IFR). As multiple social distancing measures were implemented simultaneously (schools/work/leisure), we assessed their overall impact as well as their relative contribution. R0was estimated 2·38 (95%CI: 2·01,2·80). By April 26th, the infection attack rate was 0·12% (95%CrI: 0·06%,0·26%) and the IFR 1·12% (95%CrI: 0·55%,2·31%). During lockdown, daily contacts were reduced by 86·9% and the effective reproduction number reached 0·46 (95%CrI: 0·35,0·57). The reduction in R0attributed to lockdown was 81·0% (95%CrI: 71·8%,86·0%) whereas the reduction attributed to each measure separately ranged between 10%-24%. We assessed scenarios with less disruptive social distancing measures as well as scenarios where measures are partially lifted after lockdown. This is the first impact assessment of the first wave of SARS-CoV-2 in a European country. It suggests that only multiple measures implemented simultaneously could reduce R0below 1. Measuring social mixing patterns can be a tool for real-time monitoring of the epidemic potential.
Factors associated with country-variation in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality worldwide: an observational geographic study COVID-19 morbidity and mortality country-variation
Authors: Bellali H , Chtioui N , Chahed M 
Published: May 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe world is threatened by the outbreak of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) since December 2019. The number of cases and deaths increased dramatically in some countries from March 2020. The objective of our study was to examine potential associated factors with country-variation in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality in the world.MethodsWe performed a retrospective geographic study including all countries with the most recent available data on free access on the web. We analyzed univariate and multivariable correlation between both the number of reported cases and deaths by country and demographic, socioeconomic characteristics, lockdown as major control measure, average annual temperature and relative humidity. We performed simple linear regression, independent t test and ANOVA test for univariate analyses and negative binomial regression model for multivariable analyses.ResultsWe analyzed data of 186 countries from all world regions. As of 13thApril 2020, a total of 1 804 302 COVID-19 cases and 113 444 deaths were reported. The reported number of COVID-19 cases and deaths by countries was associated with the number of days between the first case and lockdown, the number of cases at lockdown, life expectancy at birth, average annual temperature and the socio-economic level. Countries which never implemented BCG vaccination reported higher mortality than others.ConclusionsThe pandemic is still ongoing and poses a global health threat as there is no effective antiviral treatment or vaccines. Thus, timing of control measure implementation is a crucial factor in determining the spread of the epidemic. It should be a lesson for this pandemic and for the future.
Neural plate targeting by in utero nanoinjection (NEPTUNE) reveals a role forSptbn2in neurulation and abdominal wall closure
Authors: Mangold Katrin , Mašek Jan , He Jingyan , Lendahl Urban , Fuchs Elaine , Andersson Emma R 
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACTGene variants associated with disease are efficiently identified with whole genome sequencing or GWAS, but validationin vivolags behind. We developed NEPTUNE (neuralplate targeting by inuteronanoinjection), to rapidly and flexibly introduce gene expression-modifying viruses to the embryonic murine neural plate prior to neurulation, to target the future adult nervous system. Stable integration in >95% of cells in the brain enabled long-term gain- or loss-of-function, and conditional expression was achieved using mini-promotors for cell types of interest. Using NEPTUNE, we silencedSptbn2, a gene associated with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5) in humans. Silencing ofSptbn2induced severe neural tube defects and embryo resorption, suggesting thatSPTBN2in-frame and missense deletions in SCA5 reflect hypomorphic or neomorphic functions, not loss of function. In conclusion, NEPTUNE offers a novel, rapid and cost-effective technique to test gene function in brain development, and can reveal loss of function phenotypes incompatible with life.
Cryo-EM Structure of Native Human Uromodulin, a Zona Pellucida Module Polymer
Authors: Stsiapanava Alena , Xu Chenrui , Brunati Martina , Zamora-Caballero Sara , Schaeffer Céline , Han Ling , Carroni Marta , Yasumasu Shigeki , Rampoldi Luca , Wu Bin , Jovine Luca 
Published: May 2020

SUMMARYAssembly of extracellular filaments and matrices mediating fundamental biological processes such as morphogenesis, hearing, fertilization and antibacterial defense is driven by a ubiquitous polymerization module known as zona pellucida (ZP) “domain”. Despite the conservation of this element from hydra to human, no information is available on the filamentous conformation of any ZP module protein. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of uromodulin (UMOD)/Tamm-Horsfall protein, the most abundant protein in human urine and an archetypal ZP module-containing molecule, in its mature homopolymeric state. UMOD forms a one-start helix with an unprecedented 180-degree twist between subunits enfolded by interdomain linkers that have completely reorganized as a result of propeptide dissociation. Lateral interaction between filaments in the urine generates sheets exposing a checkerboard of binding sites to capture uropathogenic bacteria, and UMOD-based models of mammalian and avian heteromeric egg coat filaments identify a common sperm-binding region at the interface between subunits.
Risk mitigation modelling of international construction projects executed by Indian firms: a structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Viswanathan Satish Kumar , Jha Kumar Neeraj 
Published: May 2020

PurposeA number of previous studies have investigated international construction project risks and have proposed risk mitigation measures without examining their interdependence. The purpose of the current study is to identify the influence of various risk mitigation measures on macro-level risk factors in the international marketplace.Design/methodology/approachThe authors initially identified 26 risk variables and nine risk mitigation measures through a literature review, which were then verified for their pertinence to international projects by three experts. Subsequently, 105 questionnaire survey responses were collected and analysed using factor analysis and structural equation modelling to test the interrelations between the risk variables and mitigation measures.FindingsThe findings suggest that joint ventures with local partners is emerged as the most critical risk mitigation measure that influences the international projects, which are exposed to political, project and firm-specific risk factors. Further, it is worth noting that among the recognised risk mitigation measures in international projects, offering more local employment is the least critical mitigation measure in the international projects.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of this study are based on the macro-risk factors encountered by Indian construction firms in international projects, mostly from specific Asian and African regions. Thus, the opinions of construction firms from the developed countries might be different.Originality/valueThe main contribution of this study to existing knowledge is empirical evidence of the interrelationships between risk mitigation measures and risk factors that are portrayed as latent variables of different manifest risk variables. The generated model can assist construction firms in emphasising several risk mitigation methods, in order to reduce risk and enhance performance in international construction projects.
What drives the failure of private participation in infrastructure projects?
Authors: Ruiz Díaz Gonzalo 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the determinants of the early termination of infrastructure projects implemented under public–private partnerships (PPP), concessions or privately managed divested assets.Design/methodology/approachCross-section and duration model estimations were applied to a sample of 2,655 infrastructure projects implemented in Latin America and the Caribbean for the period 1993–2017. Estimation techniques consist of a logistic model and cox proportional hazards model (CPHM) applied to alternative specifications, including diverse causal factors.FindingsEvidence is found that early termination of infrastructure projects is determined by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Among the intrinsic factors, the main characteristics of projects that increase the likelihood of failure are the size or scale of the project, the sector in which the project is developed (transport and water and sanitation) and being investments in divested assets. Extrinsic factors that showed a negative impact on the risk of early termination are good regulatory quality and domestic macroeconomic stability. Likewise, external real and financial shocks also contribute importantly to explain the likelihood of early termination of infrastructure projects.Practical implicationsThe results reveal that particular care must be put in design and supervision of large-scale projects, either in transport or water and sanitation. As well, risks associated with external shocks must be explicitly acknowledged in project design, with appropriate remedies and safeguards. The prevalence of relatively high rates of early termination in projects in divested assets in contrast with PPP suggests the importance of introducing simpler way out mechanisms for concessionaires. Finally, the results show the key importance of institutional factors like regulatory quality in determining project failure on economic performance of infrastructure projects.Originality/valueIn contrast to the previous literature, the analysis shows the decisive role played by financial external factors and institutional factors of Latin American and Caribbean countries in early termination of private participation in infrastructure projects. As well, the finding of a higher likelihood of failure in projects that involve investments in divested assets versus concession or PPP suggests the need of investigate further the tradeoffs regarding the balance that must exist among guarantees offered to investors in infrastructure projects and the need to keep contractual decisions in line with market signals.
The affecting factors of childbirth fear for pregnant women admitted to a health center and university hospital in Turkey
Authors: Kaya Didem , Evcili Funda 
Published: May 2020

PurposeFear of birth may cause perinatal complication, increased risk of intervention and need for analgesia, delayed mother–infant attachment process and deterioration of spouse relationship. The purpose of this study was to determine the affecting factors and childbirth fears of Turkish pregnant women.Design/methodology/approachThis is a descriptive research type. The sample of this study consisted of 78 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in this study. This study was carried out in a family health center and university hospital in a city in Turkey. Data were collected with Personal Information Form and Wijma Expectancy/Experience Scale-A Version (W-DEQ A).FindingsThe mean scores of pregnant women from W-DEQ A version were 75.60 ± 9.48. In 65.4% of pregnant women, fear of severe birth, 20.5% fear of clinical birth and 14.1% of children had a fear of moderate birth. W-DEQ A version, the third trimester, unplanned pregnancies, lack of knowledge of the level of inadequate birth and more than eight pregnancies in pregnancy, the total score of pregnant women was found to be higher (p < 0.05).Research limitations/implicationsThe limitation of this study is its small sample size. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed.Practical implicationsIt was determined that one-fifth of the sample group experienced birth fear at the clinical level and childbirth fear level is associated with unplanned pregnancies, lack of knowledge. In antenatal period, the pregnant woman should be encouraged to express her feelings and thoughts about the labor and give information about the labor.Social implicationsCognitive and behavioral education programs can be structured to cope with fear of birth for pregnant women at risk.Originality/valueThis research is original. This study presents data on Turkish women. The data can also be used to evaluate intercultural differences.
Fire resistance of the vertical glass structures with thermal protection foil
Authors: Jakab András , Hlavicka Viktor , Restás Ágoston , Lubloy Eva 
Published: May 2020

Purpose
During the building designing, it is very important to deal with the fire resistance of the structures. The designed materials for escape routes should be selected to ensure the usability of the structures until the time of escape. Planning affects the glass structures similarly, so these can also be partition walls and load bearing structures, although the latter is less applied on escape routes. The heat protection of the glasses can be improved with heat-protective foils, while fire protection is provided by gel intumescent material.

Design/methodology/approach
To research the topic of fire resistance, laboratory experiments were carried out on small-scaled glass elements with thermal protection foil at Budapest University of Technology and Economics at the Department of Construction Materials and Technologies.

Findings
Fire protection of small model specimens was tested with blowtorch fire and furnace heat load. During the experiments, six foils were tested. Single pane glass, double layered and triple glazed specimens were tested with blowtorch fire.

Originality/value
Fire protection of small model specimens was tested with blowtorch fire and furnace heat load. During the experiments, six foils were tested. Single pane glass, double layered and triple glazed specimens were tested with blowtorch fire. In case of heat-protected glazing, the foils on the “protected” side of the single pane glass do not have a fire protection effect based on blowtorch fire test. For double glassed specimens, the P35 foil has a perceptible effect, even for the requirements of the flame breakthrough (E, integrity), when the foil is placed on the inner side (position 3) of the second glass layer. The stratification of each triple glazed specimens was effective against blowtorch fire load (3 M, S4&P35), so (EI, integrity and isolation) it can meet the requirements of flame breakthrough and thermal insulation.
Underwriter reputation and IPO valuation in an emerging market: evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Ong Chui Zi , Mohd-Rashid Rasidah , Taufil-Mohd Kamarun Nisham 
Published: May 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the influence of underwriter reputation on the valuation of Malaysian initial public offerings (IPOs).Design/methodology/approachThis study employed cross-sectional multiple regression models to analyse the relationship between underwriter reputation and IPO valuation that included 466 IPOs listed on Bursa Malaysia from 2000 to 2017.FindingsThe results revealed that underwriter reputation had a significant negative association with IPO valuation. Firms that engaged the services of reputable underwriters had their IPO offer prices set lower than the intrinsic values during the listing. After incorporating firms' size, this study found a positive relationship between underwriter reputation and IPO valuation. Big firms (high quality) hired reputable underwriters for certification purposes as issuers were aware that the cost of hiring a reputable underwriter would be justified by increased transparency after listing. Therefore, firms that engaged reputable underwriters had approximately fair values since issuers assumed that the price would be close to the intrinsic value following enhanced transparency post-listing.Research limitations/implicationsFuture studies should focus on other non-financial factors, such as auditor reputation.Originality/valueThe present study provides new insights into the certification role of underwriters in valuing IPOs in the Malaysian market.
Enhancing job satisfaction through work–family enrichment and perceived supervisor support: the case of Australian social workers
Authors: Kalliath Parveen , Kalliath Thomas , Chan Xi Wen , Chan Christopher 
Published: May 2020

PurposeDrawing on the conservation of resources theory and social exchange theory, this study aims to examine the underlying relationships linking work-to-family enrichment (WFE) and family-to-work enrichment (FWE) to perceived supervisor support and ultimately, job satisfaction among social workers.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from members of a social work professional body (n = 439) through an internet-based questionnaire and analysed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling.FindingsPerceived supervisor support mediated the relationships between work–family enrichment (specifically, WFE-Development, WFE-Affect and FWE-Efficiency) and job satisfaction.Research limitations/implicationsSocial workers who worked in a positive work environment that uplifts their moods and attitudes (WFE-Affect), have access to intellectual and personal development (WFE-Development) and felt supported by their supervisors reported higher levels of job satisfaction. Those who possessed enrichment resources were found to be more efficient (FWE-Efficiency) also perceived their supervisors to be supportive and experienced higher job satisfaction. Future studies should consider other professional groups and incorporate a longitudinal design.Practical implicationsPromoting work–family enrichment among social workers can contribute to positive work outcomes such as perceived supervisor support and job satisfaction. HR practitioners, supervisors and organisations can promote work–family enrichment among social workers through introduction of family-friendly policies (e.g. flexitime, compressed workweek schedules) and providing a supportive work–family friendly environment for social workers.Originality/valueAlthough several work–family studies have linked work–family enrichment to job satisfaction, the present study shows how each dimension of WFE and FWE affects social workers' job satisfaction.
MInOSSE: A new method to reconstruct geographic ranges of fossil species
Authors: Carotenuto Francesco , Di Febbraro Mirko , Mondanaro Alessandro , Castiglione Silvia , Serio Carmela , Melchionna Marina , Rook Lorenzo , Raia Pasquale 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Estimating fossil species' geographic range is a major goal for paleobiologists. In the deep time, this is most commonly performed by using polygon‐based methods such as the minimum convex polygon (MCP) or the Alpha‐Hull. Unfortunately, such methods provide a poor representation of the fossil species' actual range, because they are unable to take control of the severe stochastic and taphonomic biases.

Here, we introduce MInOSSE (massively interpolated occurrences for species spatial estimation), a model‐based method that combines a machine learning algorithm and geostatistical approaches to reconstruct a target fossil species' geographic ranges by relying on the distribution of other coeval species and without using environmental predictors.

We tested MInOSSE by using many simulated fossil species' distributions, comparing its performance with MCP and Alpha‐Hull outcomes and applying it to real case studies.

In all simulations, MInOSSE outperformed the competing methods. Interestingly, the superior performance of MInOSSE becomes more apparent when the fossil record of the target species is scarce, that is, when appropriate range reconstruction is most problematic with polygon‐based methods.

MInOSSE is a powerful tool for researchers interested in studying geographic range evolution, effects of range size on extinction risk, as well as biodiversity dynamics and macroecological patterns in the deep time.