bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Attending the Diwaniyyah on Kuwaiti Men’s Health
Authors: Al-Sejari Maha
Published: October 2017

Diwaniyyah is a traditional gathering place for men in the Arab world. Most Kuwaiti men spend most of their time in the diwaniyyah, which is an important part of their social activity. The current study aims to examine the relationship between the diwaniyyah as a social community and the attendees’ health conditions to determine how the diwaniyyah affects Kuwaiti men’s lifestyle. A questionnaire was distributed among 500 men 16 years old and above. It comprised five parts of data: sociodemographic information, frequency of attending diwaniyyah, types of diwaniyyahs, and health lifestyle of members attending the diwaniyyah. A t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and linear regression were used to test the study’s questions. A significant difference in negative effect of diwaniyyahs on attendees’ physical health was detected according to the participants’ ethnic roots, affection for and length of time they spent in the diwaniyyah, time of day or evening that they visited, and dealing with chronic disease ( p < .05). Also the results reveal significant differences in the positive effect of diwaniyyahs on the attendees’ lifestyle behavior according to their age, occupational status, religious affiliation, government, prayer time, and type of diwaniyyah ( p < .05).
Redefining Zone II: Anatomy of the Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Insertion
Authors: Nicholson Luke T. , Hill Jeffrey R. , McKnight Braden , Heckmann Nathanael , Stevanovic Milan , Ghiassi Alidad
Published: October 2017

Background: Flexor zone II is defined as the region spanning the proximal aspect of the A1 pulley to the insertion of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon. Descriptions of the FDS insertion are inconsistent in the literature, but zones of injury are frequently determined with reference to superficial landmarks. The purpose of this study was to describe the footprint of the FDS insertion and define its relationship to the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) skin crease. Methods: The FDS insertion on the index, middle, ring, and small fingers was dissected in 6 matched pairs of fresh-frozen cadaveric hands. A Kirschner wire was used to mark the level of the PIP skin crease on bone before measurements of the FDS footprint and its position relative to the PIP skin crease were made using digital calipers. Results: The radial and ulnar FDS slips inserted a mean distance of 3.22 mm from the distal aspect of the PIP skin crease and varied by digit. The mean distal extent of the FDS insertion was 8.29 mm. The mean length of the insertion of each FDS slip was 5.15 mm and the mean width was 1.9 mm. Conclusions: The radial and ulnar FDS slips insert on average 3.22 mm distal to the PIP skin crease and vary by digit. Knowledge of the FDS insertion is clinically relevant when differentiating between flexor zone I and zone II injuries, planning surgical approaches to the finger, and in guiding patient expectations for surgery given the variability in outcome based on zone of injury.
Assessment of the Effects of Graded Doses of Polyphenolic-Rich Fraction of Garcinia kola Seeds on Pituitary–Testicular Axis of Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Omotola Mosunmola Busayo , Adeosun Isaac O. , Obuotor Efere M. , Akomolafe Rufus O. , Ayannuga Olugbenga A.
Published: October 2017

This study evaluated the ameliorative and prophylactic effects of 2 different doses of polyphenolic-rich fraction of Garcinia kola (PPRF Gk) seeds on the histology and hormones of pituitary–testicular axis of male Wistar rats. Thirty-five male Wistar rats (150-200 g) were divided into 7 groups of 5 rats each. Groups I and II were given distilled water (0.5 mL/day) for 8 days followed by propylene glycol (0.2 mL/d) and 600 mg/kg of PPRF Gk, respectively, for 21 days. Group III received sodium arsenate (8 days), left untreated for 21 days. Groups IV and V received sodium arsenate (20 mg/kg) for 8 days followed by PPRF Gk (300 and 600 mg/kg, respectively) for 21 days. Groups VI and VII received PPRF Gk (300 and 600 mg/kg, respectively) for 21 days followed by sodium arsenate (20 mg/kg) for 8 days. Rats were killed by cervical dislocation 24 hours after the last dose and their blood collected through cardiac puncture. Blood sera were assayed for the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone using immunoassay techniques. Histology of the pituitary gland and testes was carried out. A significant reduction was observed in the concentration of FSH in groups IV, V, VI, and VII in comparison with groups I and II. The concentrations of both LH and testosterone showed significant decreases in groups IV, V, VI, and VII in comparison with group I. Group III presented with the lowest serum hormonal concentrations. Photomicrographs of the pituitary gland revealed greatly reduced basophils in group III and mildly reduced basophils in groups IV, VI, and VII in comparison with groups I and II. Group V revealed hypercellularized and distorted basophils. Photomicrographs of the testes showed detachment of the seminiferous tubules from the basement membrane and disruption of the interstitial space which was worse in group III, moderate in groups V and VI, and mild in group VII. In conclusion, PPRF Gk effected a dose-dependent reversal and prevention of the perturbations caused by arsenate in rats.
Should we treat aneurysms in perforator arteries from the basilar trunk? Review of 49 cases published in the literature and presentation of three personal cases
Authors: Chau Yves , Sachet Marina , Sédat Jacques
Published: October 2017

Basilar trunk perforator artery aneurysms are rare. Their diagnosis and treatment are difficult, controversial, and challenging. Analysis of 52 cases (49 documented in the literature and three personal cases) clearly shows a re-bleeding rate of 15% in patients whose aneurysm has not been occluded and 0% in treated patients ( p < 0.05). The most effective treatment, and the one that presents the least complication, is double-stenting across the basilar trunk.
Quality of time spent without symptoms of disease or toxicity of treatment for transmetatarsal amputation versus digital amputation in diabetic patients with digital gangrene
Authors: Elsherif Mohamed , Tawfick Wael , Canning Patrick , Hynes Niamh , Sultan Sherif
Published: October 2017

Aim

We aim to compare the outcome of diabetic patients with gangrenous toes who were managed initially either by digital amputation or by transmetatarsal amputation. The null hypothesis is that transmetatarsal amputation had less theatre trips and better healing.

Materials and Methods

A parallel observational comparative study of all diabetic patients who underwent either digital or transmetatarsal amputation in a tertiary referral center from 2002 through 2015. Comorbid conditions, subsequent amputations, hospital stay, and readmission were noted.

Results

A total of 223 patients underwent minor amputation during the study period, of which 147 patients were diabetic and 76 patients were non-diabetic. Seventy-seven patients had digital amputation and 70 transmetatarsal amputation in diabetic patients. Demographics were similar in both groups. The median time to major amputation was (400 ± IQR 1205 days) in the digital amputation group, compared to 690 ± IQR 891 days in the transmetatarsal amputation group ( P = 0.974). 29.9% of digital amputations and 15.7% of transmetatarsal amputations in diabetic patients, required minor amputations or revision procedures ( P = 0.04). Median length of hospital stay was (20 days, IQR 27) in the digital group and (17 days, IQR17) in the transmetatarsal amputation group ( P = 0.17). Need for re-admission was 48.1% in digital patients compared to 50% in transmetatarsal amputation patients ( P = 0.81). Quality of time spent without symptoms of disease or toxicity of treatment (Q-TWiST) was (315 days, IQR 45) in digital group and (346 days, IQR 48) in the transmetatarsal amputation patients ( P = 0.099).

Conclusion

Despite the lack of statistical significance, transmetatarsal amputation offered better outcome in the diabetic patients, with less re-intervention rate, shorter hospital stays, less theatre trips, and longer time without toxicity (TWiST).
The Goldwater Rule: Perspectives From, and Implications for, Psychological Science
Authors: Lilienfeld Scott O. , Miller Joshua D. , Lynam Donald R.
Published: October 2017

When, if ever, should psychological scientists be permitted to offer professional opinions concerning the mental health of public figures they have never directly examined? This contentious question, which attracted widespread public attention during the 1964 U.S. presidential election involving Barry Goldwater, received renewed scrutiny during and after the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign, when many mental health professionals raised pointed questions concerning the psychiatric status of Donald Trump. Although the Goldwater Rule prohibits psychiatrists from offering diagnostic opinions on individuals they have never examined, no comparable rule exists for psychologists. We contend that, owing largely to the Goldwater Rule’s origins in psychiatry, a substantial body of psychological research on assessment and clinical judgment, including work on the questionable validity of unstructured interviews, the psychology of cognitive biases, and the validity of informant reports and of L (lifetime) data, has been overlooked in discussions of its merits. We conclude that although the Goldwater Rule may have been defensible several decades ago, it is outdated and premised on dubious scientific assumptions. We further contend that there are select cases in which psychological scientists with suitable expertise may harbor a “duty to inform,” allowing them to offer informed opinions concerning public figures’ mental health with appropriate caveats.
1-out-of-N multi-state standby systems with state-dependent random replacement times
Authors: Levitin Gregory , Jia Heping , Ding Yi , Song Yonghua
Published: October 2017

Research on analysis of replacement time in standby systems has focused on systems with binary-state standby components. However, when the standby components are multi-state, the replacement time depends on the state of the standby component when it is activated for replacement. This article considers the impacts of state-dependent random replacement times on 1-out-of- N systems consisting of multi-state standby components. Numerical algorithms for evaluating the multi-state standby system’s instantaneous availability, expected availability over system mission time and the expected mission completion time are proposed. A Markov state transition model is used to describe the component behaviour in standby mode. The time-to-failure of the operating component and the replacement time of the standby component can obey arbitrary types of distributions. Illustrative examples are provided to demonstrate the proposed numerical algorithms. The effects of the number of standby components, different replacement time distributions and activation sequences are also discussed.
Arthroscopic versus open excision of dorsal ganglion cysts: a systematic review
Authors: Crawford Catherine , Keswani Aakash , Lovy Andrew J. , Levy Isaiah , Lutz Kristina , Kim Jaehon , Hausman Michael
Published: October 2017

We conducted a systematic review comparing recurrence and complication rate following open versus arthroscopic excision of ganglion cysts. Sixteen full-text articles were included. The pooled recurrence rate of open excision was 20% (range: 5.6–40.7%) with Q value of 27 and I2 of 82%. The pooled recurrence rate of arthroscopic excision was 9% (range: 0–17%) with Q value of 10 and I2 of 2%. Eleven of 16 studies were low quality or had a high risk of bias; however, excluding low quality studies or those with high risk of bias produced similar recurrence rates in arthroscopic and open excision (7.9% versus 9.8%). For the subset of studies with complete reporting of complications, rates were similar in open and arthroscopic excision (6% versus 4%). Our review suggests that arthroscopic and open approaches have comparable outcome profiles. Nevertheless, standardized study methods with adequate powering are required to collect high quality data, allowing for greater confidence in conclusions regarding these two approaches for existing ganglion cysts.

Level of Evidence: II
The management of chronic non-arthritic scapholunate dissociation: a systematic review
Authors: Naqui Zafar , Khor Wee Sim , Mishra Anuj , Lees Vivien , Muir Lindsay
Published: October 2017

A systematic review was conducted to identify the best management for chronic scapholunate dissociation. EMBASE, MEDLINE, and CENTRAL were searched from 1965–2016. A narrative synthesis was performed. One thousand, one hundred and ninety-one citations were identified, of which 17 had final analysis. In all interventions, the pain score at 2 years reduced from 6.0 to 2.8 with similar effect from capsulodesis and tenodesis techniques. Overall there was an 18% loss of flexion arc. Radial to ulnar arc improved in capsulodesis (+19%; n = 45) and worsened in tenodesis (−6%; n = 45). Grip strength was better in capsulodesis (+31%; n = 64 versus + 11%; n = 56). There was insufficient evidence to link radiological outcome with clinical outcome. Rates of complications (20%) and CRPS (3.8%) were high, with implications for patient consent. Due to heterogeneity in data collection, the lack of comparative studies and short-term follow-up, no conclusion regarding the superiority of a single technique was possible. Longer term comparative studies are required, as are natural history studies. A minimum data set has been advised.

Level of evidence: II
Psychosocially Supportive Design: The Case for Greater Attention to Social Space Within the Pediatric Hospital
Authors: McLaughlan Rebecca
Published: October 2017

Objective:

Models of patient and family-centered care advocate catering to psychosocial needs when designing healthcare facilities yet there is little evidence available to determine how the built environment can cater to psychosocial needs. This article highlights the obstacles to overcoming this knowledge deficit in the pursuit of evidence-based guidelines to inform social provisions within the pediatric hospital setting. It will propose a working definition for psychosocial space and identify new research directions to enhance understandings of the relationship between social space and well-being.

Background:

While traditional multibed ward configurations afforded opportunities for peer support relationships to develop, both for patients and caregivers, the contemporary preference for single-occupancy rooms intensifies the need to critically examine social spaces within the pediatric hospital.

Methods:

Research suggests a correlation between social support and well-being. This article reviews the research underpinning contemporary understandings of this relationship; it positions literature from sociology, environmental psychology, and evidence-based design to highlight the limitations of this knowledge and identify where additional research is required to inform evidence-based design guidelines for psychosocially supportive spaces within pediatric healthcare settings.

Conclusions:

Evidence regarding the therapeutic value of social support within the pediatric hospital is not sufficiently sophisticated or conclusive to inform guidelines for the provision of social space with pediatric hospitals. There is an urgent need for targeted research to inform evidence-based design guidelines; this will demand a broad disciplinary approach.
Factors That Drive Youth Specialization
Authors: Padaki Ajay S. , Popkin Charles A. , Hodgins Justin L. , Kovacevic David , Lynch Thomas Sean , Ahmad Christopher S.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Specialization in young athletes has been linked to overuse injuries, burnout, and decreased satisfaction. Despite continued opposition from the medical community, epidemiological studies suggest the frequency is increasing.

Hypothesis:

Extrinsic pressures in addition to individual aspirations drive this national trend in sports specialization.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

A novel instrument assessing the driving factors behind youth specialization was generated by an interdisciplinary team of medical professionals. Surveys were administered to patients and athletes in the department’s sports medicine clinic.

Results:

The survey was completed by 235 athletes between 7 and 18 years of age, with a mean age of 13.8 ± 3.0 years. Athletes specialized at a mean age of 8.1 years, and 31% of athletes played a single sport while 58% played multiple sports but had a preferred sport. More than 70% of athletes had collegiate or professional ambitions, and 60% played their primary sport for 9 or more months per year, with players who had an injury history more likely to play year-round ( P < 0.01). Approximately one-third of players reported being told by a coach not to participate in other sports, with specialized athletes reporting this significantly more often ( P = 0.04). Half of the athletes reported that sports interfered with their academic performance, with older players stating this more frequently ( P < 0.01).

Conclusion:

Young athletes are increasingly specializing in a single sport before starting high school. While intrinsic drive may identify healthy aspirations, extrinsic influences are prevalent in specialized athletes.

Clinical Relevance:

Extrinsic factors contributing to youth specialization were identified and compounded the deleterious sequelae of youth athlete specialization.
Citrulline as a marker of intestinal function and absorption in clinical settings: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fragkos Konstantinos C. , Forbes Alastair
Published: October 2017

Background

Citrulline has been described as a marker of intestinal function or absorption but evidence varies according to clinical settings.

Objective

The objective of this article is to examine the evidence of plasma citrulline as a marker of intestinal function and absorption in various clinical settings.

Methods

Studies were examined for p values, means and standard deviations, correlation coefficients or other metrics depicting the association of citrulline with intestinal function. A random effects model was used to produce a pooled estimate. A hierarchical summary receiver operating curve model was fitted for diagnostic accuracy measures.

Results

Citrulline levels are correlated strongly with small bowel length in short bowel syndrome patients (r  = 0.67). Citrulline is strongly negatively correlated (r  = –0.56) with intestinal disease severity with regards to enteropathies (coeliac disease, tropical enteropathy, Crohn’s disease, mucositis, acute rejection in intestinal transplantation). Citrulline cut‐off levels have an overall sensitivity and specificity of 80% and 84% respectively. Citrulline levels in untreated coeliac patients compared to controls were reduced by 10 µmol/l. Citrulline levels increase with gluten‐free diet and with improvement of enteropathy. Citrulline is decreased in critical illness and sepsis.

Conclusion

These findings allow us to advocate quite reasonably that citrulline is a marker of acute and chronic intestinal insufficiency.
Analytical View of Bahrain’s Government Schools’ Performance: A Quality Perspective
Authors: Albaker Khaled
Published: October 2017

Since 2005, education in the Kingdom of Bahrain has undergone major reforms as part of the National Education Reform Project to achieve the goals of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030. The Education & Training Quality Authority (BQA) was created by a Royal Decree as an independent entity established that is responsible for ensuring quality in education and training in the Bahrain. The Directorate of Government Schools Review (DGS) is under the umbrella of BQA and responsible for conducting quality reviews for all Bahraini government schools. Upon successfully completing two cycles of school reviews (review cycle average is 4 years), this article compares the findings of two DGS review cycles. In December 2014, the DGS completed its second review of 206 schools. Generally, the results showed an increase in the polarity of the ratings. Analysis of the results showed the following: In terms of schools’ environments, it is generally safe with equal infrastructure and learning resources among most schools; the performance gap between male and female students is widening; the field of technical and commercial education still faces challenges; parental involvement is limited, despite opportunities for participation; and available technology is used inconsistently. In addition, some schools that are judged inadequate face increased challenges to improvement.
Imagining the Radicalized Muslim: Race, Anti-Muslim Discourse, and Media Narratives of the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombers
Authors: Kibria Nazli , Watson Tobias Henry , Selod Saher
Published: October 2017

The authors explore the production of anti-Muslim racial discourse through a study of media coverage of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, widely seen as among the most significant acts of “homegrown” (i.e., born and/or raised in Western societies) Muslim terrorism on U.S. soil since 9/11. Drawing on news accounts and accompanying online reader comments from the Boston Globe, CBS Boston, and the New York Times, the authors examine the emergence of frames and narratives about the perpetrators, two brothers who were long-time U.S. residents and Muslims of Chechen origin. Findings point to the development of a color-blind anti-Muslim racial discourse that simultaneously affirms Muslim difference and makes claims to an absence of hostility and discrimination toward Muslims through a narrative of radicalization. Informed by the field of terrorism studies and counterterrorism policy making, the narrative of Muslim radicalization draws attention to individual life trajectories in which psychological and theological factors combine with exposure to radical Islamist groups to propel young “homegrown” Muslims toward extremism and violence. The potential for this narrative to challenge notions of intrinsic Muslim difference is limited by its reliance on a series of nested binaries of good versus evil and the West versus Islam as well as the incorporation of a racialized notion of violent potential whereby Muslims are seen as intrinsically inclined toward extremist violence.
Interkinetic nuclear migration and basal tethering facilitates post-mitotic daughter separation in intestinal organoids
Authors: Carroll Thomas D. , Langlands Alistair J. , Osborne James M. , Newton Ian P. , Appleton Paul L. , Näthke Inke
Published: October 2017

Homeostasis of renewing tissues requires balanced proliferation, differentiation and movement. This is particularly important in the intestinal epithelium where lineage tracing suggests that stochastic differentiation choices are intricately coupled to the position of a cell relative to a niche. To determine how position is achieved, we followed proliferating cells in intestinal organoids and discovered that the behaviour of mitotic sisters predicted long-term positioning. We found that, normally, 70% of sisters remain neighbours, while 30% lose contact and separate after cytokinesis. These post-mitotic placements predict longer term differences in positions assumed by sisters: adjacent sisters reach similar positions over time; in a pair of separating sisters, one remains close to its birthplace while the other is displaced upward. Computationally modelling crypt dynamics confirmed that post-mitotic separation leads to sisters reaching different compartments. We show that interkinetic nuclear migration, cell size and asymmetric tethering by a process extending from the basal side of cells contribute to separations. These processes are altered in adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) mutant epithelia where separation is lost. We conclude that post-mitotic placement contributes to stochastic niche exit and, when defective, supports the clonal expansion of Apc mutant cells.
Non-invasive evaluation of stable renal allograft function using point shear-wave elastography
Authors: Kim Bom Jun , Kim Chan Kyo , Park Jung Jae
Published: October 2017

Objective:

To investigate the feasibility of point shear-wave elastography (SWE) in evaluating patients with stable renal allograft function who underwent protocol biopsies.

Methods:

95 patients with stable renal allograft function that underwent ultrasound-guided biopsies at predefined time points (10 days or 1 year after transplantation) were enrolled. Ultrasound and point SWE examinations were performed immediately before protocol biopsies. Patients were categorized into two groups: subclinical rejection (SCR) and non-SCR. Tissue elasticity (kPa) on SWE was measured in the cortex of all renal allografts.

Results:

SCR was pathologically confirmed in 34 patients. Tissue elasticity of the SCR group (31.0 kPa) was significantly greater than that of the non-SCR group (24.5 kPa) (=0.016), while resistive index value did not show a significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.112). Tissue elasticity in renal allografts demonstrated significantly moderate negative correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate (correlation coefficient = −0.604, p < 0.001). Tissue elasticity was not independent factor for SCR prediction on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:

As a non-invasive tool, point SWE appears feasible in distinguishing between patients with SCR and without SCR in stable functioning renal allografts. Moreover, it may demonstrate the functional state of renal allografts.

Advances in knowledge:

On point SWE, SCR has greater tissue elasticity than non-SCR.
Stage 1 Registered Report: Effect of deficient phagocytosis on neuronal survival and neurological outcome after temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAo)
Authors: Emmrich Julius V. , Neher Jonas J. , Boehm-Sturm Philipp , Endres Matthias , Dirnagl Ulrich , Harms Christoph
Published: October 2017

Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. In addition to neuronal death resulting directly from energy depletion due to lack of blood supply, inflammation and microglial activation following ischemic brain injury has been increasingly recognized to be a key contributor to the pathophysiology of cerebrovascular disease. However, our understanding of the cross talk between the ischemic brain and the immune system is limited. Recently, we demonstrated that following focal ischemia, death of mature viable neurons can be executed through phagocytosis by microglial cells or recruited macrophages, i.e. through phagoptosis. It was shown that inhibition of phagocytic signaling pathways following endothelin-1 induced focal cerebral ischemia leads to increased neuronal survival and neurological recovery. This suggests that inhibition of specific phagocytic pathways may prevent neuronal death during cerebral ischemia. To further explore this potential therapeutic target, we propose to assess the role of phagocytosis in an established model of temporary (45min) middle cerebral artery occlusion, and to evaluate neuronal survival and neurological recovery in mice with deficient phagocytosis.
Random Knockout Tournaments
Authors: Adler Ilan , Cao Yang , Karp Richard , Peköz Erol A. , Ross Sheldon M.
Published: October 2017

We consider a random knockout tournament among players 1,…, n, in which each match involves two players. The match format is specified by the number of matches played in each round, where the constitution of the matches in a round is random. Supposing that there are numbers v1,…, vn such that a match between i and j will be won by i with probability vi/(vi + vj), we obtain a lower bound on the tournament win probability for the best player, as well as upper and lower bounds for all of the players. We also obtain additional bounds by considering the best and worst formats for player 1 in the special case v1 > v2 = v3 = … = vn.
Uncertainty Propagation from the Cell Transmission Traffic Flow Model to Emission Predictions: A Data-Driven Approach
Authors: Sayegh Arwa S. , Connors Richard D. , Tate James E.
Published: October 2017

Road traffic exhaust emission predictions are used to inform transport policy and investment decisions aimed at reducing emissions and achieving sustainable mobility. Emission predictions are also used as inputs when modeling air quality and human exposure to traffic-related air pollutants. To be effective, such policies and/or integration must be based on robust models that not only provide point-based predictions but also inform these with an interval of confidence that properly accounts for the propagation of uncertainties through the complex chain of models involved. This paper develops a data-driven methodological framework that enables calculating the uncertainty in average speed–based emission predictions induced by uncertainty in its traffic data inputs, which are most often predictions (or outputs) of traffic flow models. An ensemble-based optimisation approach is used to estimate both calibration and validation errors arising from uncertainty in the structure and parameterisation of the cell transmission model, a discretised first-order macroscopic traffic flow model that is often integrated with average speed–based emission models. A Monte Carlo sampling approach is proposed to propagate the uncertainty in traffic flow inputs to emission predictions. To ensure transferability of findings, this methodology has been tested using multiple real data sets on three motorway road networks, one of which operates under variable speed limits.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/trsc.2017.0787 .
Production of highly nutritious functional food with the supplementation of wheat flour with lysine
Authors: Albert Cs. , Gombos S. , Salamon R. V. , Csiki Z. , Prokisch J. , Csapó J.
Published: October 2017

During our research, we added 0.5–2.0% L-lysine to wheat flour in order to increase the quantity of this essential amino acid and the biological value of the wheat protein, producing such a functional, health-protecting, and health-preserving foodstuff that is suitable for satisfying the lysine requirement of humans, assuming normal nutrition. Furthermore, by the increase of the biological value completing the wheat flour with a higher amount of lysine, we could produce such a functional, health-protecting and health-preserving food that is suitable for containing or preventing lysine malnutrition symptoms. During our work, we determined the quantity of the Maillard reaction products (hydroxymethyl-furfural) and the lysine content developed during the baking of the wheat flour used for bread baking and in the bread baked with supplemented or without supplemented lysine, and evaluated the sensory characteristics of the produced functional food and the bread supplemented with lysine.
Effects of pectolytic enzyme treatment and microfiltration on antioxidant components of elderberry juice
Authors: Furulyás D. , Nyéki F. , Stéger-Máté M. , Stefanovits-Bányai É. , Bánvölgyi Sz.
Published: October 2017

In this study, pectolytic enzymes (Pectinex BE XXL,Trenolin Rot, andFructozym P) were investigated for their influence on phenolic, anthocyanin content, and antioxidant activities of elderberry (Sambucus nigraL.) pulps during juice processing. Prior to pressing the berries, three different enzymes were added to pulps in order to evaluate the effect of different pectolytic enzyme treatments on the valuable components of elderberry juice. Control sample was prepared without enzyme. After treatment, squeezing, and clarification steps, microfiltration was carried out with ceramic membrane. The effect of this technology on the antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol content, and total anthocyanin content of the clarified elderberry juices has been evaluated in permeate and retentate samples, and membrane retention was calculated. Significantly lower antioxidant capacity was detected in the case of control sample than that obtained using enzyme-treated juices. Retention of antioxidant content on the microfiltration membrane was greatly reduced by using the enzymes. Higher valuable component yield was obtained usingFructozym Penzyme compared withPectinex BE XXLused in industry.
The role of vitamins in the diet of the elderly II. Water-soluble vitamins
Authors: Csapó J. , Albert Cs. , Prokisch J.
Published: October 2017

Following a presentation of humans’ water-soluble vitamin requirements, the authors will discuss in detail the role these vitamins play in human organism and outline those major biochemical processes that are negatively affected in the body in case of vitamin deficiency. They point out that in the elderly population of developed countries cases of water-soluble vitamin deficiency are extremely rare and they are due to the lack of dietary vitamin, but mostly to the vitamin being released from its bindings, the difficulty of free vitamin absorption, gastrointestinal problems, medication, and often alcoholism. Among water-soluble vitamins, B12 is the only one with a sufficient storage level in the body, capable of preventing deficiency symptoms for a long period of time in cases of vitamin-deficient nutrition. Each type of vitamin is dealt with separately in discussing the beneficial outcomes of their overconsumption regarding health, while the authors of the article also present cases with contradictory results. Daily requirements are set forth for every water-soluble vitamin and information is provided on the types of nutrients that help us to the water-soluble vitamins essential for the organism.
Cell-based in vitro models in environmental toxicology: a review
Authors: Poteser Michael
Published: October 2017

An analysis of biological effects induced by environmental toxins and exposure-related evaluation of potential risks for health and environment represent central tasks in classical biomonitoring. While epidemiological data and population surveys are clearly the methodological frontline of this scientific field, cellbased in vitro assays provide information on toxin-affected cellular pathways and mechanisms, and are important sources for the identification of relevant biomarkers. This review provides an overview on currently available in vitro methods based on cultured cells, as well as some limitations and considerations that are of specific interest in the context of environmental toxicology. Today, a large number of different endpoints can be determined to pinpoint basal and specific toxicological cellular effects. Technological progress and increasingly refined protocols are extending the possibilities of cell-based in vitro assays in environmental toxicology and promoting their increasingly important role in biomonitoring.
Speaking assessment perceptions and practices of English teachers at tertiary level in the Turkish context
Authors: Özdemir-Yılmazer Meryem , Özkan Yonca
Published: October 2017

Teaching speaking is one of the challenging dimensions of teaching English as a foreign language. In the Turkish educational setting, students are exposed to English from second grade at the primary level until the first grade at tertiary level. Although the exposure to English is intensive, it is observed that students are unable to solve language-related problems even at tertiary level. A recent British Council report (2015) revealed that students recruited at Turkish universities have an inadequate level of speaking proficiency relative to the standards of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The reason may be multi-faceted; however, investigation of assessment practices of English instructors may shed light on this problem. This study aims to investigate tertiary-level English language teachers’ perceptions and practices of speaking assessment. Personal Construct Theory (PCT) forms the basis for this case study. The data was collected via repertory grids, semi-structured interviews, and classroom observation. Focus grid analysis was conducted to analyze and interpret the data. The findings of the study reveal that the participants do have individualized beliefs regarding assessment of speaking, which necessitates training for teachers on classroom assessment to raise their awareness regarding commonality of practice in in-class speaking assessment.
Correlation between electrospinning parameters and magnetic properties of BiFeO3 nanofibers
Authors: Melo Guilherme H. F. , Santos João P. F. , Gualdi Alexandre J. , Tsai Chieh-Ming , Sigmund Wolfgang M. , Bretas Rosario E. S.
Published: October 2017

BiFeO
Generic hardness of the Boolean satisfiability problem
Authors: Rybalov Alexander
Published: October 2017

It follows from the famous result of Cook about the NP-completeness of the Boolean satisfiability problem that there is no polynomial algorithm for this problem if
A Generally Efficient Targeted Minimum Loss Based Estimator based on the Highly Adaptive Lasso
Authors: van der Laan Mark
Published: October 2017

Suppose we observe$n$independent and identically distributed observations of a finite dimensional bounded random variable. This article is concerned with the construction of an efficient targeted minimum loss-based estimator (TMLE) of a pathwise differentiable target parameter of the data distribution based on a realistic statistical model. The only smoothness condition we will enforce on the statistical model is that the nuisance parameters of the data distribution that are needed to evaluate the canonical gradient of the pathwise derivative of the target parameter are multivariate real valued cadlag functions (right-continuous and left-hand limits, (G. Neuhaus. On weak convergence of stochastic processes with multidimensional time parameter. Ann Stat 1971;42:1285–1295.) and have a finite supremum and (sectional) variation norm. Each nuisance parameter is defined as a minimizer of the expectation of a loss function over over all functions it its parameter space. For each nuisance parameter, we propose a new minimum loss based estimator that minimizes the loss-specific empirical risk over the functions in its parameter space under the additional constraint that the variation norm of the function is bounded by a set constant. The constant is selected with cross-validation. We show such an MLE can be represented as the minimizer of the empirical risk over linear combinations of indicator basis functions under the constraint that the sum of the absolute value of the coefficients is bounded by the constant: i.e., the variation norm corresponds with this$L_1$-norm of the vector of coefficients. We will refer to this estimator as the highly adaptive Lasso (HAL)-estimator. We prove that for all models the HAL-estimator converges to the true nuisance parameter value at a rate that is faster than$n^{-1/4}$w.r.t. square-root of the loss-based dissimilarity. We also show that if this HAL-estimator is included in the library of an ensemble super-learner, then the super-learner will at minimal achieve the rate of convergence of the HAL, but, by previous results, it will actually be asymptotically equivalent with the oracle (i.e., in some sense best) estimator in the library. Subsequently, we establish that a one-step TMLE using such a super-learner as initial estimator for each of the nuisance parameters is asymptotically efficient at any data generating distribution in the model, under weak structural conditions on the target parameter mapping and model and a strong positivity assumption (e.g., the canonical gradient is uniformly bounded). We demonstrate our general theorem by constructing such a one-step TMLE of the average causal effect in a nonparametric model, and establishing that it is asymptotically efficient.
Tame logarithmic signatures of abelian groups
Authors: Reichl Dominik
Published: October 2017

The security of the asymmetric cryptosystem MST
Crystal structure of 1-(carboxymethyl)-1H-benzo[d][1,2,3]triazole 3-oxide, C8H7N3O3
Authors: Yu Minxia
Published: October 2017

C8H7N3O3, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 7.2526(12) Å, b = 10.0770(18) Å, c = 11.906(2) Å, β = 104.393(3)°, V = 842.8(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0375, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0766, T = 293 K.
A new geometrical model for mixing of highly viscous fluids by combining two-blade and helical screw agitators
Authors: Hadjeb Abdessalam , Bouzit Mohamed , Kamla Youcef , Ameur Houari
Published: October 2017

Mixing processes are becoming today a huge concern for industrialists in various domains like the pharmaceutical production, oil refining, food industry and manufacture of cosmetic products especially when the processes are related to the mixing of highly viscous products. So the choice of a stirring system for this category of products or fluids must be rigorously examined before use because of the flows which are laminar in the most cases, something that is not good to obtain homogeneous particles or suspensions after the mixing operation. This CFD study allows developing a new geometrical model of mechanical agitator with high performance for mixing of highly viscous fluids. It consists of a combination of two bladed and helical screw agitators. The investigations of the flow structure generated in the vessel are made by using the computer code ANSYS CFX (version 13.0), which allows us to realize and test the effectiveness of the new stirrer on the resulting mixture and power consumption.
Equilibrium and kinetics studies for the adsorption of Ni2+ and Fe3+ ions from aqueous solution by graphene oxide
Authors: Konicki Wojciech , Aleksandrzak Małgorzata , Mijowska Ewa
Published: October 2017

In this study, the adsorption of Ni2+ and Fe3+ metal ions from aqueous solutions onto graphene oxide (GO) have been explored. The effects of various experimental factors such as pH of the solution, initial metal ion concentration and temperature were evaluated. The kinetic, equilibrium and thermodynamic studies were also investigated. The adsorption rate data were analyzed using the pseudo-first-order kinetic model, the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the intraparticle diffusion model. Kinetic studies indicate that the adsorption of both ions follows the pseudo-second-order kinetics. The isotherms of adsorption data were analyzed by adsorption isotherm models such as Langmuir and Freundlich. Equilibrium data fitted well with the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacities of Ni2+ and Fe3+ onto GO were 35.6 and 27.3 mg g−1, respectively. In addition, various thermodynamic parameters, such as enthalpy (ΔHO), entropy (ΔSO) and Gibbs free energy (ΔGO), were calculated.
Assessment of Hygrothermal Performance and Design Guidance for Modern Light-Frame Wall Assemblies
Authors: Crandell Jay H.
Published: October 2017

The knowledge base on the topic of hygrothermal performance of building assemblies is as varied as it is vast. Although generally agreeing at the level of fundamental building science principles, this knowledge base can differ substantially in assumptions, analysis methodology, degree of completeness, treatment of material properties and boundary conditions, stringency of performance limit states or criteria, and judgments regarding acceptable or preferred solutions. These uncertainties contribute to confusion in the building design and construction marketplace regarding appropriate methods or best practices, particularly in view of implementing improved energy code requirements for the insulation of building envelopes. The confusion is amplified by gaps in the coordination of water-vapor control strategies in building codes and insulation strategies represented in energy codes. A comprehensive review and state-of-the-art evaluation is needed to better understand and resolve these real or perceived uncertainties while also identifying gaps where continual improvements can be offered or pursued with further research. This paper strives to provide such a review of U.S. and Canadian building code practices together with an assessment of data and findings from various modeling, test hut, and field studies on the hygrothermal performance of modern, light-frame building envelopes. It attempts to reconcile this information on a consistent basis and recommend incremental improvements to better unify current design and construction practices as represented in current U.S. and Canadian building codes. As a result of this effort, an attempt is made to formulate a reasonably comprehensive, consistent, and simple framework for the presentation of prescriptive guidance for design and construction of energy-efficient and durable building envelopes. Conclusions and recommendations for further research also are offered.
Using Hygrothermal Modeling to Resolve Practical Low-Slope Roofing Issues
Authors: Desjarlais André , Pierce Helene Hardy , Pallin Simon
Published: October 2017

Within building envelope science, the use of tools to model performance of the building envelope has evolved, and designers and scientists today have a myriad of tools available. Hygrothermal modeling is one such tool and, when used correctly, offers designers and forensic investigators important information about the movement of moisture within the building envelope. This traditional use of hygrothermal modeling is maturing as models are validated with field experience, creating a confidence in the modeling tools and their predictive capabilities. Based on this confidence, application of hygrothermal modeling to a more practical application is an evolution whose time has arrived. With changes in materials and methods, the performance of roofing systems can often times no longer be based on experience alone. Roofing contractors have been confounded by the unexplained and unplanned-for presence of moisture in roofing systems. Although hygrothermal modeling can be used to explain where the moisture came from, we propose that it should be used to prevent its occurrence. Unfortunately, more than 70 % of the roofing market is in reroofing, and oftentimes, a designer is not engaged in the roofing system design. Without the expertise of a designer and given that hygrothermal modeling is not well understood by the roofing industry, its adoption as a tool that can prevent problems has not been widely seen. This paper presents an extensive summary of hygrothermal modeling performed for roofing systems and then shows how the modeling can be used to create simple resources for roofing contractors to reduce the potential for moisture condensation at critical locations within a roofing system. The systems modeled have shown a propensity for moisture accumulation, and the use of hygrothermal modeling to eliminate these problems is a practical application of a building science tool that can greatly improve the durability of roofing systems.