bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detecting racial bias in algorithms and machine learning
Authors: Turner Lee Nicol
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The online economy has not resolved the issue of racial bias in its applications. While algorithms are procedures that facilitate automated decision-making, or a sequence of unambiguous instructions, bias is a byproduct of these computations, bringing harm to historically disadvantaged populations. This paper argues that algorithmic biases explicitly and implicitly harm racial groups and lead to forms of discrimination. Relying upon sociological and technical research, the paper offers commentary on the need for more workplace diversity within high-tech industries and public policies that can detect or reduce the likelihood of racial bias in algorithmic design and execution.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shares examples in the US where algorithmic biases have been reported and the strategies for explaining and addressing them.

Findings

The findings of the paper suggest that explicit racial bias in algorithms can be mitigated by existing laws, including those governing housing, employment, and the extension of credit. Implicit, or unconscious, biases are harder to redress without more diverse workplaces and public policies that have an approach to bias detection and mitigation.

Research limitations/implications

The major implication of this research is that further research needs to be done. Increasing the scholarly research in this area will be a major contribution in understanding how emerging technologies are creating disparate and unfair treatment for certain populations.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the work point to areas within industries and the government that can tackle the question of algorithmic bias, fairness and accountability, especially African-Americans.

Social implications

The social implications are that emerging technologies are not devoid of societal influences that constantly define positions of power, values, and norms.

Originality/value

The paper joins a scarcity of existing research, especially in the area that intersects race and algorithmic development.
Building digital state
Authors: Kassen Maxat
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review and illustrate historical milestones and evolutionary stages of public sector reforms in such a typical transitional society as Kazakhstan through the prism of existing e-government development strategies, implementation models and institutional regulations.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is mostly based on a retrospective analysis of technology-driven public sector reforms and content analysis of various e-government strategies and platforms implemented by national and local executive authorities in Kazakhstan for the last two decades.

Findings

The results of the analysis has confirmed previously made assumptions that typical developing states tend to adopt different non-linear and multidimensional implementation strategies in advancing e-government reforms in comparison with developed countries. As it turns out, the continuity of actual stages or levels of such development not always corresponds in a consecutive manner to the formal phases of the most popular e-government maturity models proposed previously in academic literature.

Research limitations/implications

One of the fundamental limitations of the case study is that its findings and recommendations could relate only to a limited number of countries that have similar political, socioeconomic and administrative contexts. Taking into account the fact that Kazakhstan is not only a typical developing economy but also a transitional post-communist and post-totalitarian society that has its own unique political and socioeconomic features of governance, the results of case study could not be generalized and extrapolated to all developing countries, presumably narrowing them only to a very limited number of similar states, mostly, in Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia.

Practical implications

The main practical contribution of the article is that it provides a close review of e-government politics in Kazakhstan that could be helpful for policy makers and practitioners in evaluating, learning and improving the work of various technology-driven public sector projects in the area, especially from a regulatory point of view.

Originality/value

This inherently ethnographic narrative, which is based on the analysis of e-government legislation and implementation strategies derived from diverse administrative practices, could be interesting for those who seek to understand an ever-changing truly evolutionary nature of technology-driven public sector reforms in a typical transitional society.
To get cited or get tweeted: a study of psychological academic articles
Authors: Ye Yingxin Estella , Na Jin-Cheon
Published: September 2018

Purpose

By analyzing journal articles with high citation counts but low Twitter mentions and vice versa, the purpose of this paper is to provide an overall picture of differences between citation counts and Twitter mentions of academic articles.

Design/methodology/approach

Citation counts from the Web of Science and Twitter mentions of psychological articles under the Social Science Citation Index collection were collected for data analysis. An approach combining both statistical and simple content analysis was adopted to examine important factors contributing to citation counts and Twitter mentions, as well as the patterns of tweets mentioning academic articles.

Findings

Compared to citation counts, Twitter mentions have stronger affiliations with readability and accessibility of academic papers. Readability here was defined as the content size of articles and the usage of jargon and scientific expressions. In addition, Twitter activities, such as the use of hashtags and user mentions, could better facilitate the sharing of articles. Even though discussions of articles or related social phenomena were spotted in the contents of tweets, simple counts of Twitter mentions may not be reliable enough for research evaluations due to issues such as Twitter bots and a deficient understanding of Twitter users’ motivations for mentioning academic articles on Twitter.

Originality/value

This study has elaborated on the differences between Twitter mentions and citation counts by comparing the characteristics of Twitter-inclined and citation-inclined articles. It provides useful information for interested parties who would like to adopt social web metrics such as Twitter mentions as traces of broader engagement with academic literature and potential suggestions to increase the reliability of Twitter metrics. In addition, it gives specific tips for researchers to increase research visibility and get attention from the general public on Twitter.
A nine dimensional framework for digital cultural heritage organizational sustainability
Authors: Eschenfelder Kristin R. , Shankar Kalpana , Williams Rachel D. , Salo Dorothea , Zhang Mei , Langham Allison
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on how library and information science (LIS) as a field operationalizes the concept of organizational sustainability for managing digital resources, projects and infrastructures such as digital libraries and repositories over time. It introduces a nine dimensional framework for organizational sustainability in the digital cultural heritage community.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis of publications from three LIS databases (2000–2015).

Findings

Comparing the articles to the nine dimension framework shows that most LIS articles discuss technology, financial or management dimensions. Fewer articles describe disaster planning, assessment or policy dimensions.

Research limitations/implications

Three LIS databases might not include all relevant journals, conferences, white papers and other materials. The data set also did not include books; library management textbooks might include useful material on organizational sustainability. Claims about the prevalence of themes are subject to methodological limits of content analysis.

Practical implications

Organizations that steward digital collections need to be clear about what they mean when they are referring to organizational sustainability so that they can make appropriate decisions for future-proofing their collections. The analysis would also suggest for a greater need to consider the full range of dimensions of organizational sustainability.

Originality/value

By introducing a new nine dimensional framework of organizational sustainability the authors hope to promote more and better conversations within the LIS community about organizational sustainability. The authors hope these conversations will lead to productive action and improvements in the arrangements of people and work necessary to keep digital projects and services going over time, given ongoing challenges.
How off-track tourists create their own event: a customer-dominant logic perspective
Authors: Ben Gamra Zinelabidine Boutheina , Touzani Lilia , Ben Dahmane Norchène , Touzani Mourad
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Adopting a customer-dominant logic perspective, the purpose of this paper is to understand how some tourists decide on unusual trips and how they associate meanings to transform their experience into an event.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is exploratory and involves three qualitative data collection techniques. The authors conducted individual interviews complemented by travel narratives with tourists that decided to undertake off-track travel. The third method is ethnographic and focuses on tourists participating in a singular ritualistic festival.

Findings

Several factors explained how off-track travelers associate meanings to turn their real-life experience into a successful event. These factors cover three main concepts: discovery, social link and identity.

Practical implications

The authors propose managerial implications for ordinary service providers in the tourism sector. Managers should attempt to provide tourists with a framework within which they can create their own events and take initiatives. They must be supportive of tourists re-enhancing their experience and making efforts to create their own event.

Originality/value

This research explains how services must be less standardized to satisfy tourists looking for immersion, exoticism and authenticity and to support their initiatives.
How can tourism policy influence the path to sustainable tourism development in Guyana by 2025?
Authors: Connelly Aletha , Sam Shenera
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to outline the key realities which need to be under consideration as Guyana crafts a vision for sustainable tourism development – 2025. These key realities are borne out of the current vision statement, strategic objectives and actions in the National Draft Tourism Policy 2016-2020.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is exploratory in nature and uses document analysis as primary means of data collection.

Findings

The achievement of sustainable tourism development is an ideal fit with the tabling of strategic policy documents that seek to guide its implementation. However, these objectives and actions need to be structured and measurable to ensure that monitoring and evaluation can occur.

Originality/value

It is anticipated that this research will serve as a valuable reference tool for researchers, policymakers and other relevant bodies with an interest in strategic action for the achievement of sustainable tourism development.
A two‐step culture method utilizing secreted luciferase recombinant virus for detection of anti‐cytomegalovirus compounds
Authors: Koshizuka Tetsuo , Sato Yuko , Kobiyama Shoe , Oshima Mami , Suzutani Tatsuo
Published: September 2018

Quantification of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replication by plaque assay reflects viral infectivity but has several drawbacks. Recombinant virus expressing reporter genes can facilitate quantification of HCMV replication. In this study, a recombinant virus, Towne‐BAC(dTT)‐MetLuc, was constructed and the secretable Metridia luciferase (MetLuc) gene inserted into it under UL146 promoter. In addition, the UL130 gene was repaired to allow growth of the recombinant virus in both fibroblasts and epithelial cells. As predicted, luciferase activity was secreted into the culture medium and correlated with virus replication in infected fibroblasts and epithelial cells. Furthermore, secreted luciferase activity was correlated with the size of the recombinant virus inoculum with a dynamic range of 3 logs. This recombinant virus was used in a two‐step culture protocol for detection of the anti‐HCMV activity of compounds; that is, the supernatant of a first‐step culture with anti‐viral compounds was collected and inoculated into uninfected cells to create a second‐step culture. Although secreted luciferase activity leaked in the first‐step culture supernatant in the presence of some antiviral compounds, luciferase activity in the second‐step culture supernatant reflected the virus yield in the first‐step culture. Therefore, comparison of luciferase activity in the first‐ and second‐step cultures indicated the anti‐viral activity of the compounds. This two‐step culture protocol facilitates screening of anti‐viral compounds.
Radiologic features in symptomatic/asymptomatic heels of patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Kim Tae‐Hwan , Lee Jin Kyu , Sung Hyo‐Kyung , Kim Bo‐Hyun , Song Young‐Sik , Sung Il‐Hoon
Published: September 2018

Aim

Most heel pain occurs at the posterior or plantar aspect, where main entheses of the heel are located. However, simple radiographs as basic work‐up tools, their features based on their association with local symptoms in the heel in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients, have rarely been described.

Method

Forty patients with AS and unilateral heel pain were enrolled to evaluate radiographic differences between symptomatic and asymptomatic heels. The two groups were assessed according to symptom location: posterior (group PS) or plantar (group PL). Typical abnormalities in bone and/or soft tissue on the heel due to inflammation were compared.

Results

In group PS (20 cases), 19 (95%) symptomatic feet and 7 (35%) asymptomatic feet showed abnormal findings on the posterior heel and symptomatic feet showed 6 (30%) plantar abnormalities. Erosion of the posterior calcaneal tuberosity, obliteration of the retrocalcaneal recess (RR), and swelling shadows with increased thickness on posterior soft tissue were observed more frequently and significantly in symptomatic feet in group PS (P < 0.05). In group PL (20 cases), 11 (55%) symptomatic feet and 8 (40%) asymptomatic feet showed abnormalities on the plantar heel and symptomatic feet showed 14 (70%) posterior abnormalities, and none showed significant differences between symptomatic and asymptomatic feet.

Conclusion

Among simple radiographic alterations on heels with AS, such changes around the enthesis of the Achilles as bony erosion and RR obliteration with swollen posterior soft tissue are strongly related to current painful posterior heels. Assessment of enthesitis of the Achilles tendon in AS using plain radiography seems to be valid.
Prophylactic air‐extraction strategy after thoracoscopic wedge resection
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Tao , Tang Yi‐Chun , Lin Jun‐Tao , Dong Song , Nie Qiang , Jiang Ben‐Yuan , Yan Hong‐Hong , Wen Zheng‐Wei , Wu Yue , Yang Xue‐Ning , Wu Yi‐Long , Zhong Wen‐Zhao
Published: September 2018

Background

Since the conception of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols, tubeless strategies have become popular. Herein, we introduce a previously unreported alternative air‐extraction strategy for patients who have undergone thoracoscopic wedge resection and explore its feasibility and safety.

Methods

Between January 2015 and June 2017, 264 consecutive patients underwent thoracoscopic wedge resection with different drainage strategies. Patients were divided according to the postoperative drainage strategies used: routine chest tube drainage (RT group), complete omission of chest tube drainage (OT group), and prophylactic air‐extraction catheter insertion procedure (PC group). Using the propensity score matching method, clinical parameters and objective operative qualities were compared among the three groups.

Results

Optimal 1:1 matching was used to form pairs of RT (n =36) and PC (n =36) groups and balance baseline characteristics among the three groups. The incidence rates of pneumothorax were 5.6% (2/36), 9.8% (5/51), and 19.4% (7/36) in the RT, OT, and PC groups, respectively (P = 0.07). Chest tube reinsertion incidence for postoperative pneumothorax was 19.4% (1/7) in the PC group and 60% (3/5) in the OT group. Other postoperative complications were comparable among these groups.

Conclusions

The prophylactic air‐extraction strategy may be an alternative procedure for selected patients. Remedial air extraction may reduce the occurrence of chest tube reinsertion for pneumothorax patients, but further investigation is required.
Risk factors for development and progression of diabetic retinopathy in Dutch patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Schreur Vivian , van Asten Freekje , Ng Heijan , Weeda Jack , Groenewoud Joannes M.M. , Tack Cees J. , Hoyng Carel B. , de Jong Eiko K. , Klaver Caroline C.W. , Jeroen Klevering B.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To investigate risk factors for the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and long‐term visual outcomes in Dutch patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

Methods

Cumulative incidences were calculated for DR, vision‐threatening DR (VTDR), defined as (pre)proliferative DR and diabetic macular oedema, and best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) <0.5 and <0.3 at the most recent eye examination. The following factors were assessed: duration of diabetes, age of onset of T1DM, gender, mean HbA1c, HbA1c variability (defined as coefficient of variation of five separate HbA1c measurements), mean arterial blood pressure, body mass index, albuminuria and lipid profile. We used multivariable Cox regression models to identify factors associated with DR development and progression to VTDR.

Results

We found 25‐year cumulative incidences of 63% for DR, 21% for VTDR, 2% for BCVA <0.5, and 1% for BCVA <0.3. Mean HbA1c (HR 1.023, p < 0.001), HbA1c variability (HR 1.054, p < 0.001), age of onset of T1DM (HR 1.024, p < 0.001), HDL cholesterol (HR 0.502, p = 0.002) and total cholesterol (HR 1.210, p = 0.029) showed an independent association with faster development of any form of DR. The mean HbA1c (HR 1.023, p < 0.001) and the presence of albuminuria (HR 2.940, p = 0.028) were associated with faster progression to VTDR.

Conclusion

These data show relatively low cumulative incidences of DR, VTDR and visual impairment. Higher mean HbA1c, HbA1c variability, age of onset of T1DM and total cholesterol were independently associated with the risk of DR development, and a protective association was found for HDL cholesterol in subjects with T1DM. Mean HbA1c and presence of albuminuria were associated with progression of DR.
Seeds of future past: climate change and the thermal memory of plant reproductive traits
Authors: Fernández‐Pascual Eduardo , Mattana Efisio , Pritchard Hugh W.
Published: September 2018

Plant persistence and migration in face of climate change depends on successful reproduction by seed, a central aspect of plant life that drives population dynamics, community assembly and species distributions. Plant reproduction by seed is a chain of physiological processes, the rates of which are a function of temperature, and can be modelled using thermal time models. Importantly, while seed reproduction responds to its instantaneous thermal environment, there is also evidence of phenotypic plasticity in response to the thermal history experienced by the plant's recent ancestors, by the reproducing plant since seedling establishment, and by its seeds both before and after their release. This phenotypic plasticity enables a thermal memory of plant reproduction, which allows individuals to acclimatise to their surroundings. This review synthesises current knowledge on the thermal memory of plant reproduction by seed, and highlights its importance for modelling approaches based on physiological thermal time. We performed a comprehensive search in the Web of Science and analysed 533 relevant articles, of which 81 provided material for a meta‐analysis of thermal memory in reproductive functional traits based on the effect size Zr. The articles encompassed the topics of seed development, seed yield (mass and number), seed dormancy (physiological, morphological and physical), germination, and seedling establishment. The results of the meta‐analysis provide evidence for a thermal memory of seed yield, physiological dormancy and germination. Seed mass and physiological dormancy appear to be the central hubs of this memory. We argue for integrating thermal memory into a predictive framework based on physiological time modelling. This will provide a quantitative assessment of plant reproduction, a complex system that integrates past and present thermal inputs to achieve successful reproduction in changing environments. The effects of a warming environment on plant reproduction cannot be reduced to a qualitative interpretation of absolute positives and negatives. Rather, these effects need to be understood in terms of changing rates and thresholds for the physiological process that underlie reproduction by seed.
Long‐term course of difficulty in participation of individuals with cerebral palsy aged 16 to 34 years: a prospective cohort study
Authors: van Gorp Marloes , Van Wely Leontien , Dallmeijer Annet J , de Groot Vincent , Ketelaar Marjolijn , Roebroeck Marij E ,   the Perrin‐Decade study group
Published: September 2018

Aim

To determine the long‐term course of difficulty in participation of individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) without intellectual disability between 16 years and 34 years of age.

Method

One hundred and fifty‐one individuals with CP aged 16 to 20 years were included (63% male, 37% female; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels I–IV; without intellectual disability). The Assessment of Life Habits questionnaire 3.0 general short form was used up to three times biennially and at 13‐year follow‐up (13‐year follow‐up: n=98). Scores (range 0–10) reflect difficulty and assistance in participation in housing, education and employment, interpersonal relationships, recreation, community life, and responsibilities. Multilevel models were used to determine the course of difficulty in participation by GMFCS level.

Results

Despite high average participation levels, 41% to 95% of adolescents and young adults with CP experienced difficulty. Difficulty in participation in housing and interpersonal relationships increased from age 16 years onwards and in most other life areas in the mid‐ and late 20s. In adolescents in GMFCS levels III and IV, participation in recreation and community life improved up to age 23 years.

Interpretation

Individuals with CP experience increasing difficulties in participation in their mid‐ and late 20s. Clinicians should systematically check for participation difficulties in young adults with CP and offer timely personalized treatment.

What this paper adds

Many individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) aged 16 to 34 years experience difficulty in participation.

Difficulty in participation increases in the mid‐ and late 20s for individuals with CP.

Participation in recreation/community life improves before age 23 years for those in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels III and IV.
Non‐native species led to marked shifts in functional diversity of the world freshwater fish faunas
Authors: Toussaint Aurèle , Charpin Nicolas , Beauchard Olivier , Grenouillet Gaël , Oberdorff Thierry , Tedesco Pablo A. , Brosse Sébastien , Villéger Sébastien
Published: September 2018

Global spread of non‐native species profoundly changed the world biodiversity patterns, but how it translates into functional changes remains unanswered at the world scale. We here show that while in two centuries the number of fish species per river increased on average by 15% in 1569 basins worldwide, the diversity of their functional attributes (i.e. functional richness) increased on average by 150%. The inflation of functional richness was paired with changes in the functional structure of assemblages, with shifts of species position toward the border of the functional space of assemblages (i.e. increased functional divergence). Non‐native species moreover caused shifts in functional identity toward higher body sized and less elongated species for most of assemblages throughout the world. Although varying between rivers and biogeographic realms, such changes in the different facets of functional diversity might still increase in the future through increasing species invasion and may further modify ecosystem functioning.
Notch ductile failure with significant strain‐hardening: The modified equivalent material concept
Authors: Torabi Ali Reza , Kamyab Mohsen
Published: September 2018

The equivalent material concept (EMC) assumes that the ductile material has a valid K‐based fracture toughness (KIc or Kc). For ductile materials with significant strain‐hardening, no valid KIc or Kc is determined by the standard experiments and, hence, EMC seems null. The modified EMC (MEMC) is proposed in this study by which a virtual Kc value is defined and computed for the ductile material with significant strain‐hardening. In this way, Mode I and mixed Mode I/II fracture behaviors of U‐notched aluminum alloy 5083 are assessed in the view points of experiments and theories. Several U‐notched rectangular samples are used for performing the experiments and obtaining the failure loads. Then, the MEMC is coupled with the maximum tangential stress and mean stress criteria and utilized to predict the failure loads theoretically. Finally, it is shown that both the MEMC‐stress‐based criteria can provide very good predictions of the test data.
Groundwater Microbial Communities Along a Generalized Flowpath in Nomhon Area, Qaidam Basin, China
Authors: Sheng Yizhi , Wang Guangcai , Zhao Dan , Hao Chunbo , Liu Chenglong , Cui Linfeng , Zhang Ge
Published: September 2018

Spatial distribution (horizonal and vertical) of groundwater microbial communities and the hydrogeochemistry in confined aquifers were studied approximately along the groundwater flow path from coteau to plain in the Nomhon area, Qinghai‐Tibet plateau, China. The confined groundwater samples at different depths and locations were collected in three boreholes through a hydrogeological section in this arid and semi‐arid area. The phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA genes and multivariate statistical analysis were used to elucidate similarities and differences between groundwater microbial communities and hydrogeochemical properties. The integrated isotopic geochemical measurements were applied to estimate the source and recharge characteristics of groundwater. The results showed that groundwater varied from fresh to saline water, and modern water to ancient water following the flowpath. The recharge characteristics of the saline water was distinct with that of fresh water. Cell abundance did not vary greatly along the hydrogeochemical zonality; however, dissimilarities in habitat‐based microbial community structures were evident, changing from Betaproteobacteria in the apex of alluvial fan to Gammaproteobacteria and then to Epsilonproteobacteria in the core of the basin (alluvial‐lacustrine plain). Rhodoferax, Hydrogenophaga, Pseudomonas, and bacterium isolated from similar habitats unevenly thrived in the spatially distinct fresh water environments, while Sulfurimonas dominanted in the saline water environment. The microbial communities presented likely reflected to the hydrogeochemical similarities and zonalities along groundwater flowpath.
UHPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS phenolic profiling and antioxidant capacity of bee pollen from different botanical origin
Authors: Rocchetti Gabriele , Castiglioni Sara , Maldarizzi Gianluca , Carloni Patricia , Lucini Luigi
Published: September 2018

In this work, bee pollen samples from different botanical origin were investigated for antioxidant capacity. Thereafter, a phenolic profiling was produced through a mass spectrometric untargeted metabolomic approach. Marked differences were identified in TPC, ranging from 4.2 (Magnolia) to 29.6 mg g−1 GAE (Lamium). Wide differences were also recorded in antioxidant capacity (ORAC, ABTS and DPPH assays). Untargeted profiling allowed annotating 467 compounds with flavonoids being the most frequent class of phenolics followed by phenolic acids, tyrosols, lignans and other. OPLS‐DA clearly discriminated the most represented floral families (Umbelliferae, Rosaceae and Fabaceae), suggesting, thus, that botanical origin leaves a characteristic phenolic signature in pollen. Overall, 35 phenolics accounted for most of the discrimination, with flavonoids being the most represented class. Despite the fact that further research is needed, the phenolic profile of bee pollen is a promising tool to investigate the botanical origin.
Fermentation of table cream by Lactobacillus plantarum strains: effect on fungal growth, aflatoxin M1 and ochratoxin A
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Mohammad Bagher , Gholamhosseinpour Aliakbar
Published: September 2018

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) are two main mycotoxins in milk and dairy products. In the present work, the ability of four Lactobacillus strains (L. plantarum PTCC 1058, L. plantarum LP3, L. plantarum AF1 and L. plantarum LU5) to remove AFM1 and OTA in fermented cream was studied during 24 h fermentation. The antifungal activity of the mentioned lactobacilli against the defined fungi (Aspergillus flavus PTCC 5004, Aspergillus parasiticus PTCC 5018, Aspergillus nidulans PTCC 5014, Aspergillus ochraceus PTCC 5060) was also evaluated. The results showed that the cell counts of all strains were increased by 64–70% during fermentation. All Lactobacillus strains decreased the amount of AFM1 significantly (P ≤ 0.05) in the range of 26–52%, which the highest AFM1‐reducing effect was related to L. plantarum LU5 (from 0.5 to 0.24 μg kg−1). The mean OTA removal by Lactobacillus strains in fermented cream also ranged from 32 to 58%. Amongst Lactobacillus strains, the cell‐free culture supernatants of L. plantarum LU5 showed the highest (inhibition zone of 26.7 ± 1.2 mm) and L. plantarum LP3 and L. plantarum PTCC 1058 the lowest antifungal activities. The fermented creams contained Lactobacillus strains exhibited the highest and lowest antifungal activities against A. ochraceus and A. parasiticus, respectively. L. plantarum LU5, with the inhibition zone of 27.6 ± 0.9 mm, was the most effective fungal inhibitor, while L. plantarum PTCC 1058 had the lowest antifungal activity.
Accuracy of elastic fusion biopsy in daily practice: Results of a multicenter study of 2115 patients
Authors: Oderda Marco , Marra Giancarlo , Albisinni Simone , Altobelli Emanuela , Baco Eduard , Beatrici Valerio , Cantiani Andrea , Carbone Antonio , Ciccariello Mauro , Descotes Jean‐Luc , Dubreuil‐Chambardel Marine , Eldred‐Evans David , Fasolis Giuseppe , Ferriero Mariaconsiglia , Fiard Gaelle , Forte Valerio , Giacobbe Alessandro , Kumar Pardeep , Lacetera Vito , Mozer Pierre , Muto Giovanni , Papalia Rocco , Pastore Antonio , Peltier Alexandre , Piechaud Thierry , Simone Giuseppe , Roche Jean‐Baptiste , Roupret Morgan , Rouviere Olivier , Van Velthoven Roland , Gontero Paolo
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To assess the accuracy of Koelis fusion biopsy for the detection of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer in the everyday practice.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 2115 patients from 15 institutions in four European countries undergoing transrectal Koelis fusion biopsy from 2010 to 2017. A variable number of target (usually 2–4) and random cores (usually 10–14) were carried out, depending on the clinical case and institution habits. The overall and clinically significant prostate cancer detection rates were assessed, evaluating the diagnostic role of additional random biopsies. The cancer detection rate was correlated to multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging features and clinical variables.

Results

The mean number of targeted and random cores taken were 3.9 (standard deviation 2.1) and 10.5 (standard deviation 5.0), respectively. The cancer detection rate of Koelis biopsies was 58% for all cancers and 43% for clinically significant prostate cancer. The performance of additional, random cores improved the cancer detection rate of 13% for all cancers (P < 0.001) and 9% for clinically significant prostate cancer (P < 0.001). Prostate cancer was detected in 31%, 66% and 89% of patients with lesions scored as Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System 3, 4 and 5, respectively. Clinical stage and Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score were predictors of prostate cancer detection in multivariate analyses. Prostate‐specific antigen was associated with prostate cancer detection only for clinically significant prostate cancer.

Conclusions

Koelis fusion biopsy offers a good cancer detection rate, which is increased in patients with a high Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score and clinical stage. The performance of additional, random cores seems unavoidable for correct sampling. In our experience, the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score and clinical stage are predictors of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer detection; prostate‐specific antigen is associated only with clinically significant prostate cancer detection, and a higher number of biopsy cores are not associated with a higher cancer detection rate.
Oxygen‐vacancy‐mediated microstructure and thermophysical properties in Zr3Ln4O12 for high‐temperature applications
Authors: Zhao Meng , Pan Wei , Li Tianjun , Huang Muzhang , Huang Yujia , Yang Jun , Li Zheng , Wan Chunlei
Published: September 2018

Yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) has been considered as state‐of‐the‐art material for high‐temperature thermal barrier coatings, which provide thermal insulation to the superalloy components in gas turbines and jet engines. Oxygen vacancies induced by yttria substitutions are believed to be mainly responsible for the low thermal conductivity of YSZ due to their phonon scattering effect. However, high mobility of oxygen vacancies in YSZ leads to a rapid oxygen diffusion at high temperatures, therefore accelerates the failure of coatings by grain coarsening, sintering, and simultaneous oxidation of the underlying metallic bondcoat. In the present research, we further explored in the ZrO2–Ln2O3 binary phase diagram and synthesized a series of ceramic materials with the chemical formula of Zr3Ln4O12 (Ln = La, Gd, Y, Er, and Yb), in which more oxygen vacancies were involved and extremely low phonon thermal conductivities (1.3‐1.6 W/m·K) were obtained, even approaching to the theoretical minimum. In addition, the mobility of these oxygen vacancies was remarkably suppressed by the lattice ordering with the decrease of Ln3+ radius, as confirmed by X‐ray diffraction, Raman and transmission electron microscopy. Thus, the oxygen barrier property and sintering resistance were significantly enhanced accordingly, which makes Zr3Ln4O12 compounds promising thermal barrier coating materials for next generation gas turbines and jet engines.
STK33 alleviates gentamicin‐induced ototoxicity in cochlear hair cells and House Ear Institute‐Organ of Corti 1 cells
Authors: Zhou Meijuan , Sun Gaoying , Zhang Lili , Zhang Guodong , Yang Qianqian , Yin Haiyan , Li Hongrui , Liu Wenwen , Bai Xiaohui , Li Jianfeng , Wang Haibo
Published: September 2018

Serine/threonine kinase 33 (STK33), a member of the calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase (CAMK), plays vital roles in a wide spectrum of cell processes. The present study was designed to investigate whether STK33 expressed in the mammalian cochlea and, if so, what effect STK33 exerted on aminoglycoside‐induced ototoxicity in House Ear Institute‐Organ of Corti 1 (HEI‐OC1) cells. Immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were performed to investigate STK33 expression in cochlear hair cells (HCs) and HEI‐OC1 cells with or without gentamicin treatment. CCK8, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were employed to detect the effects of STK33 knockdown, and/or U0126, and/or N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) on the sensitivity to gentamicin‐induced ototoxicity in HEI‐OC1 cells. We found that STK33 was expressed in both mice cochlear HCs and HEI‐OC1 cells, and the expression of STK33 was significantly decreased in cochlear HCs and HEI‐OC1 cells after gentamicin exposure. STK33 knockdown resulted in an increase in the cleaved caspase‐3 and Bax expressions as well as cell apoptosis after gentamicin damage in HEI‐OC1 cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that knockdown of STK33 led to activated mitochondrial apoptosis pathway as well as augmented reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation after gentamicin damage. Moreover, STK33 was involved in extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 pathway in primary culture of HCs and HEI‐OC1 cells in response to gentamicin insult. The findings from this work indicate that STK33 decreases the sensitivity to the apoptosis dependent on mitochondrial apoptotic pathway by regulating ROS generation after gentamicin treatment, which provides a new potential target for protection from the aminoglycoside‐induced ototoxicity.
Downregulation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma in the placenta correlates to hyperglycemia in offspring at young adulthood after exposure to gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhao Qihong , Yang Dong , Gao Lei , Zhao Mingqiu , He Xiujie , Zhu Meng , Tian Chaoqing , Liu Gang , Li Li , Hu Chuanlai
Published: September 2018

Aims/Introduction

Children who are exposed to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in utero are at high risk of developing related illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus in young adulthood, but the underlying mechanism and related predictive biomarkers are not known.

Materials and Methods

The present study identified the related biomarkers of hyperglycemia in young adults from the relationship between fetal blood glucose and placental lipid transporters at messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein expression levels. We recruited patients from a prospective cohort, and determined the mRNA and protein levels of placental fatty acid transporters. Diet‐induced mouse models of GDM were established, and the mRNA and protein levels of the same transporters in placentas were validated.

Results

Only the mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma correlated with the levels of neonatal blood glucose in GDM patients using linear regression and Spearman's correlation analyses (r = 0.774, P = 0.001). The mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and fatty acid transport protein‐6 correlated with blood glucose levels in mouse offspring (r = 0.82, P = 0.001, r = 0.737, P = 0.006 and r = −0.891, P = 0.001, respectively) at young adulthood using the same analyses. Notably, we observed significantly higher blood glucose levels in GDM offspring at 12 weeks‐of‐age compared with the control and rosiglitazone‐supplemented groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The downregulation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma in the placenta might predict hyperglycemia in offspring at young adulthood.
Income Level and Volatility by Children's Race and Hispanic Ethnicity
Authors: Gennetian Lisa A. , Rodrigues Christopher , Hill Heather D. , Morris Pamela A.
Published: September 2018

Objective: This study documents how income dynamics during childhood differ across racial/ethnic groups and among Hispanics by nativity, citizenship, and the English‐language proficiency of households.

Background: Income volatility has emerged as a distinct form of economic disadvantage that can impact family life and child well‐being. Yet little is understood about how income volatility is stratified by race and ethnicity.

Method: Using longitudinal data on children from the 2004 (n = 7,651) and 2008 (n = 12,183) panels of the Survey of Income and Program Participation, this study examined income level and volatility among Hispanic, non‐Hispanic White, and non‐Hispanic Black children.

Results: When compared with peers, Hispanic children were more likely to be low income, but experience slightly less income volatility. Income volatility among low‐income Hispanic children was similar regardless of the nativity or citizenship status of adults in the household, although it differed by household linguistic isolation. Receipt of social assistance offered less income stabilization for low‐income Hispanic children than for peers; however, household earnings, particularly from residential male adults (most of whom were fathers), had a stabilizing influence on income.

Conclusion: Income volatility is higher among low‐income families than among higher income families, irrespective of racial/ethnic status. At the lowest income levels, Hispanic children were statistically more likely than children of other racial/ethnic groups to experience slightly more stable income.

Implications: Understanding how different experiences of income volatility by children's race/ethnicity might influence family life and children's development can inform policy and program practice.
Phytochemistry and pharmacology of the genus Entandrophragma over the 50 years from 1967 to 2018: a ‘golden’ overview
Authors: Mouthé Happi Gervais , Tchaleu Ngadjui Bonaventure , Green Ivan Robert , Fogué Kouam Simeon
Published: September 2018

Objectives

For centuries, the genus Entandrophragma (Meliaceae), endemic to Africa, has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of several illnesses. This review deals with large range of phytochemicals from the genus Entandrophragma and their pharmacological potentials covering the period from 1967 to 2018.

Key findings

Phytochemical investigations of the genus Entandrophragma led to the report of about 166 secondary metabolites which have been thoroughly summarized herein including some of their semisynthetic derivatives obtained from chemical transformations as well as their biological activities in the medicinal and agricultural domains. The limonoids or meliacins and their precursor called protolimonoids (protomeliacins) reported so far represent almost 69.28% of the total secondary metabolites obtained from the genus, and they display the most potent biological activities. Collectively, both classes of metabolites constitute the markers of Entandrophragma. However, squalene-type triterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids were reported only from the species E. cylindricum and therefore could be its chemotaxonomic markers.

The pharmacological investigations of the extracts of some species exhibited interesting results which support the traditional uses of these Entandrophragma plants in folk medicine. Some compounds revealed promising antiplasmodial and anti-inflammatory activities and deserve therefore further attention for new drug discovery.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? Firm Heterogeneity in the Post‐crisis Period
Authors: Fouskas Panagiotis , Robinson Catherine
Published: September 2018

Existing microeconomic research on exporting firms is dominated by empirical findings across time and countries based on two theories of why firms choose to export. One requires firms to be better performers before entry, the other requires there to be improvements in performance as a result of entry. In this paper, we disentangle entry to, and exit from, the overseas market for UK manufacturing firms to better understand the motivations and characteristics underlying both decisions. We explore the extent to which changes in the macroeconomic environment may influence behaviour, following a time of global financial turbulence.
Choosing the right mask for your Asian patient with sleep apnoea: A randomized, crossover trial of CPAP interfaces
Authors: Goh Ken Junyang , Soh Rui Ya , Leow Leong Chai , Toh Song Tar , Song Pei Rong , Hao Ying , Lee Ken Cheah Hooi , Tan Gan Liang , Ong Thun How
Published: September 2018

Background and objective

A major challenge with the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Mask tolerability is an important determinant of adherence, however evidence to guide selection of mask interfaces is lacking.

Methods

We conducted a randomized crossover trial of mask interfaces in CPAP therapy for moderate‐to‐severe OSA to assess adherence and efficacy of CPAP therapy with nasal mask, nasal pillow and oronasal masks. Demographic data, Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scores and craniofacial measurements were also analysed for associations with adherence with oronasal masks.

Results

Eighty‐five patients were included in the study (mean ± SD age: 46 ± 12 years; body mass index: 29.9 ± 5.6 kg/m2; apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI): 53.6 ± 24.0 events/h). Patients had better adherence with nasal masks (average night use: 3.96 ± 2.26 h/night) compared to oronasal masks (3.26 ± 2.18 h/night, P < 0.001) and nasal pillows (3.48 ± 2.20 h/night, P = 0.007). Residual AHI was higher with oronasal masks (7.2 ± 5.2) compared to nasal masks (4.0 ± 4.2, P < 0.001) and nasal pillows (4.1 ± 3.3, P < 0.001). Twenty‐two (25.9%) patients had the best adherence with oronasal masks (4.22 ± 2.14 vs 2.93 ± 2.12 h/night, P = 0.016). These patients had lower NOSE scores (15 (0–35) vs 40 (10–55), P = 0.024) and larger menton‐labrale inferioris/biocular width ratios (31 ± 3% vs 28 ± 4%, P = 0.019).

Conclusion

Nasal masks are the preferred interface during CPAP initiation. Patients with less nasal obstruction and a proportionally increased chin‐lower lip distance to mid‐face width may have better CPAP adherence with an oronasal mask interface.
Sources of heterogeneous gains from trade: Income differences and non‐homothetic preferences
Authors: Egger Peter H. , Nigai Sergey
Published: September 2018

This paper considers the interrelationship between a hierarchy of consumption needs of agricultural goods, manufactures, and services as a central feature of the demand side of economies and the demand for skilled and unskilled workers, whose incomes differ. The relationship is established as skilled and unskilled labor are used in conjunction with capital goods in a nested constant‐elasticity‐of‐substitution (CES) production function, which features capital‐skill complementarity and a substitutive relationship between the bundle of capital and skills on the one hand and unskilled labor on the other hand. Incomes differ across countries both within and between types of workers. As trade costs change, relative and absolute incomes of worker types change and so does the worker‐type‐specific pattern of consumption. A calibration and simulation exercise documents that a consideration of the supply‐and‐demand‐side linkage in this hierarchy‐of‐needs model matters quantitatively for the role of trade liberalization in the world economy.
Responses to the Clean Power Plan: Factors Influencing State Decision‐Making
Authors: Besco Laurel
Published: September 2018

In 2015, President Obama introduced the Clean Power Plan (CPP), a federal plan aimed at reducing the production of carbon pollution from power plants. In response, some used legal action to try and stop the plan, while others supported the plan and proceeded with plans for its implementation. This research investigates responses taken by state government in terms of legal remedies and planning for implementation, and what explains those responses. Findings suggest that partisanship plays a key role. Specifically, the partisanship of the attorney general is correlated with the legal response, and the governor with implementation planning. Coals, and perhaps renewables, also seem to play a role, even controlling for partisanship. There is only weak evidence for the effect of policy experience and none for the estimated cost of the policy. The article concludes by discussing the implications of these results for the future of climate policy in the United States.