LLukas22/scidocs huggingface dataset:
Hedonic tone and its mood and cognitive correlates in Parkinson's disease.

BACKGROUND
Anhedonia has been mainly reported as a symptom of depression and cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Here, we investigated whether hedonic tone depends on depression and clarified its relationship with the cognitive performance of PD patients with different mood disorders.


METHODS
In 254 patients, we assessed hedonic tone using the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale, depression severity using the Beck Depression Inventory, and cognitive performances using the Mental Deterioration Battery. A structural psychiatric interview was used to diagnose major depressive disorder (MDD) and minor depressive disorder (MIND), according to the DSM-IV-TR criteria.


RESULTS
PD patients with diagnosis of MDD were more anhedonic than those with MIND and those without depressive disorders. Reduced hedonic tone correlated with depression severity in patients with MDD and no depressive disorders. In multivariate models that consider depression severity and cognitive performances together, anhedonia was related to increased depression severity and episodic memory (auditory-verbal learning) impairment, in patients with MDD and with increased depression severity and attention impairment in patients with no depressive disorders. In patients with MIND, anhedonia did not correlate with depression severity or any cognitive performance score.


DISCUSSION
Our findings suggest that anhedonia is related to depression severity and specific cognitive performances in patients with MDD and with no depressive disorder. By contrast, the reduced hedonic tone in patients with MIND is independent from depression severity and cognition. Thus, anhedonia in PD is a heterogeneous and multidimensional phenomenon and require investigation at different levels.
Self-Efficacy, Problem Solving, and Social-Environmental Support Are Associated With Diabetes Self-Management Behaviors

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate associations between psychosocial and social-environmental variables and diabetes self-management, and diabetes control.


RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
Baseline data from a type 2 diabetes self-management randomized trial with 463 adults having elevated BMI (M = 34.8 kg/m(2)) were used to investigate relations among demographic, psychosocial, and social-environmental variables; dietary, exercise, and medication-taking behaviors; and biologic outcomes.


RESULTS
Self-efficacy, problem solving, and social-environmental support were independently associated with diet and exercise, increasing the variance accounted for by 23 and 19%, respectively. Only diet contributed to explained variance in BMI (beta = -0.17, P = 0.0003) and self-rated health status (beta = 0.25, P < 0.0001); and only medication-taking behaviors contributed to lipid ratio (total-to-HDL) (beta = -0.20, P = 0.0001) and A1C (beta = -0.21, P < 0.0001).


CONCLUSIONS
Interventions should focus on enhancing self-efficacy, problem solving, and social-environmental support to improve self-management of diabetes.
Relationship of adherence to pediatric asthma morbidity among inner-city children.

OBJECTIVES
Morbidity from asthma among children is one of the most important US health concerns. This study examines the relationship of baseline nonadherence to subsequent asthma morbidity among inner-city children.


METHODS
A multisite, prospective, longitudinal panel study was conducted of 1199 children who were aged 4 to 9 years and had asthma and their caregivers, most of whom were parents, in emergency departments and clinics at 8 research centers in 7 US metropolitan inner-city areas. Nine morbidity indicators were collected at 3, 6, and 9 months after baseline, including hospitalizations, unscheduled visits, days of wheeze/cough, and days of reduced activities.


RESULTS
Children whose caregivers scored high on a new measure, Admitted Nonadherence, experienced significantly worse morbidity on 8 of the 9 measures. Children who scored high on a new Risk for Nonadherence measure experienced significantly worse morbidity on all 9 morbidity measures. Multiple and logistic regressions found that the adherence measures had independent significant effects on morbidity. Combining the measures improved estimates of morbidity: children whose caregivers were poor on either adherence measure had worse morbidity than those with good adherence on both, eg, rate of hospitalization was twice as high, they missed more than twice as much school, had poorer overall functioning, and experienced more days of wheezing and more restricted days of activity.


CONCLUSIONS
Risk for Nonadherence and Admitted Nonadherence independently and jointly predicted subsequent asthma morbidity. Targeting risks for nonadherence may be an effective intervention strategy. Most risks can be controlled by physicians through reducing the complexity of asthma regimens, communicating effectively with caregivers about medication use, and correcting family misconceptions about asthma medication side effects.
Designing an augmented reality board game with children: the battleboard 3D experience

This demo shows BattleBoard 3D which is an Augmented Reality (AR) based game prototype featuring the use of LEGO for the physical and digital pieces. Design concepts, the physical setting and, user interface for the game is illustrated and described. Based on qualitative studies of children playing the game we illustrate design issues for AR board games.
A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study of Phototherapy Using Blue and Blue-Green Light-Emitting Devices, and Conventional Halogen-Quartz Phototherapy

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of blue versus blue-green phototherapy using new light sources with narrow luminous spectra. The devices made of high-intensity gallium nitride light-emitting diodes (LEDs) were also compared to conventional halogen-quartz bulbs phototherapy.DESIGN: Prospective open randomized study.PARTICIPANTS: A total of 114 jaundiced, but otherwise healthy term infants who met the entry criteria for phototherapy set by the American Academy of Pediatrics' Practice Parameter.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The duration of phototherapy and the rate of decrease in total serum bilirubin (TSB).RESULTS: The mean TSB concentrations at initiation and termination of treatment, as well as the duration of phototherapy and the rate of decrease in TSB, were not statistically different in newborns receiving blue LED, blue-green LED or conventional phototherapy. The average rate of decrease in TSB (slope), after adjustment by a linear regression analysis for confounding factors, was −3.61 μmol/hour (95% confidence limits −5.47, −1.75) in the 25 newborns receiving blue LED phototherapy compared with −2.57 μmol/hour (−4.32, −0.82) in the 22 newborns treated with blue-green LED phototherapy and −3.42 μmol/hour (−5.02, −1.81) in the 57 newborns who received conventional phototherapy.CONCLUSIONS: When using low light irradiance, there was no statistically significant difference in the effectiveness of phototherapy using blue-green LEDs, blue LEDs or conventional halogen-quartz bulbs.
Pseudo-exponentiation on algebraically closed fields of characteristic zero

Abstract We construct and study structures imitating the field of complex numbers with exponentiation. We give a natural, albeit non first-order, axiomatisation for the corresponding class of structures and prove that the class has a unique model in every uncountable cardinality. This gives grounds to conjecture that the unique model of cardinality continuum is isomorphic to the field of complex numbers with exponentiation.
PinADX: an interface for customizable debugging with dynamic instrumentation

Dynamic binary instrumentation systems have become popular frameworks for building custom program analysis tools. For example, Pin [8], Valgrind [9], and DynamoRIO [5] have been used to build a variety of memory checking, thread checking, cache simulation, and profiling tools. However, there has been little emphasis on building custom debugging tools with these frameworks. We introduce PinADX, a set of debugging extensions to the Pin instrumentation framework that allow easy development of custom debugger features on both Linux and Windows. This paper presents the PinADX API, demonstrates its use in a simple debugger extension, discusses the implementation details in the Pin instrumentation system, and shows that the performance is better than a native debugger for some typical debugging tasks. We believe that dynamic instrumentation technology is a powerful tool for building advanced debugging features and that an easy to use API will greatly facilitate the development of such features.
THE HOLOGRAPHIC INTERPRETATION OF HAWKING RADIATION

Holography gives us a tool for viewing the Hawking effect from a new, classical perspective. In the context of Randall–Sundrum braneworld models, we show that the basic features of four-dimensional evaporating solutions are nicely translated into classical, five-dimensional language. This includes the possible dual bulk description of particles tunneling through the horizon.
Rehabilitation following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a prospective randomized trial of immobilization compared with early motion.

BACKGROUND
The influence of rehabilitation on the outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical results and tendon healing rates following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair utilizing two distinct rehabilitation protocols.


METHODS
Over a thirty-month period, 124 patients under the age of sixty-five years underwent arthroscopic repair of a full-thickness rotator cuff tear measuring <30 mm in width. Postoperatively, patients were randomized either to a traditional rehabilitation program with early range of motion or to an immobilization group with delayed range of motion for six weeks. Clinical outcomes assessment included visual analog pain scale score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Simple Shoulder Test (SST), relative Constant score, and strength measurements at six, twelve, and twenty-four months. Tendon integrity was assessed with ultrasonography at a minimum of twelve months postoperatively.


RESULTS
There were no significant differences in patient age, tear size, or measures of preoperative function between groups at baseline. Final clinical follow-up was available for 114 subjects (92%). Active elevation and external rotation were better in the traditional rehabilitation group at three months. No significant differences were seen in functional scores, active motion, and shoulder strength between rehabilitation groups at later time points. Functional outcomes plateaued at six or twelve months except for the relative Constant score, which improved up to twenty-four months following surgery. Ninety-two percent of the tears were healed, with no difference between rehabilitation protocols (p = 0.46).


CONCLUSIONS
Arthroscopic repair of small and medium full-thickness rotator cuff tears results in reliable improvements in clinical outcomes and a high rate of tendon integrity using a double-row repair technique in patients under the age of sixty-five years. There is no apparent advantage or disadvantage of early passive range of motion compared with immobilization with regard to healing or functional outcome.
Recruitment and retention of occupational therapists and physiotherapists in rural regions: a meta-synthesis

BACKGROUND
Significant efforts have been made to address the shortage of health professionals in rural communities. In the face of increasing demand for rehabilitation services, strategies for recruiting and retaining occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs) have yielded limited success. This study aims to broaden the understanding of factors associated with recruitment and retention of OTs and PTs in rural regions, through a synthesis of evidence from qualitative studies found in the literature.


METHODS
A systematic search of three databases was conducted for studies published between 1980 - 2009 specific to the recruitment and retention of OTs and PTs to rural areas. Studies deemed eligible were appraised using the McMaster Critical Review Form. Employing an iterative process, we conducted a thematic analysis of studies and developed second order interpretations to gain new insight into factors that influence rural recruitment and retention.


RESULTS
Of the 615 articles retrieved, 12 qualitative studies met the eligibility criteria. Our synthesis revealed that therapists' decision to locate, stay or leave rural communities was influenced to a greater degree by the availability of and access to practice supports, opportunities for professional growth and understanding the context of rural practice, than by location. The second-order analysis revealed the benefits of a strength-based inquiry in determining recruitment and retention factors. The themes that emerged were 1) support from the organization influences retention, 2) with support, challenges can become rewards and assets, and 3) an understanding of the challenges associated with rural practice prior to arrival influences retention.


CONCLUSIONS
This meta-synthesis illustrates how universally important practice supports are in the recruitment and retention of rehabilitation professionals in rural practice. While not unique to rural practice, the findings of this synthesis provide employers and health service planners with information necessary to make evidence-informed decisions regarding recruitment and retention to improve availability of health services for rural residents.
Translating evidence into nursing practice: oral hygiene for care dependent adults.

BACKGROUND
Oral hygiene is necessary to maintain the health and well-being of hospitalised patients. However, studies indicated that nurses lacked the evidence-based knowledge to deliver proper care. A prior survey conducted on nurses working in the intensive care and high dependency units in our institution revealed that oral care practices varied and highlighted the need for an oral care protocol. These triggered us to embark on an evidence-based project on oral care to improve patients' oral health during their hospitalisation.


AIM
We aimed to translate the best available evidence to improve our oral care practices.


METHODS
We followed the Iowa Model of Evidence-based Practice. Having identified a problem, we formed a team. We searched for best available evidence on oral care management and appraised them using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network checklists. We developed an evidence-based oral care protocol and outlined key changes necessary to improve patients' oral care during hospitalisation. We chose the medical intensive care unit and a neurology ward to pilot the changes. The changes included introducing an oral assessment guide to assess patients' oral condition and intervening appropriately according to their risk levels, recommending 0.2% chlorhexidine solution as the main oral cleaning solution, and standardising oral care documentation. We compared the pre- and post-audits to assess improvement in the nurses' knowledge and compliance to the protocol. Auditors also physically inspected the oral health of functionally dependent patients under the charge of the audited nurses.


RESULTS
The team involved 25 patients and 25 nurses in each pre- and post-audits. The median pre- and post-scores were 60% and 100%, respectively. The results revealed that the project led to improvements in nurses' oral care knowledge and practices, especially in nurses taking appropriate interventions as recommended, and in correctly using oral care products to clean patients' mouths. Auditors reported improvement in patients' oral care during their physical assessments of patients' oral cavities. This finding was supported by feedback from other healthcare providers.


CONCLUSIONS
This evidence-based project heightened nurses' awareness and knowledge on oral care, and led to nurses providing practices based on best available evidence. These have translated to improvements in patients' oral health.
Recruitment and retention of participants in a pragmatic randomized intervention trial at three community health clinics: Results and lessons learned

BACKGROUND
Obesity and hypertension and their associated health complications disproportionately affect communities of color and people of lower socioeconomic status. Recruitment and retention of these populations in research trials, and retention in weight loss trials has been an ongoing challenge.


METHODS
Be Fit, Be Well was a pragmatic randomized weight loss and hypertension management trial of patients attending one of three community health centers in Boston, Massachusetts. Participants were asked to complete follow-up assessments every 6-months for two years. We describe challenges encountered and strategies implemented to recruit and retain trial participants over the 24-month intervention. We also identify baseline participant characteristics associated with retention status. Retention strategies included financial incentives, contact between assessment visits, building relationships with health center primary care providers (PCPs) and staff, and putting participant convenience first.


RESULTS
Active refusal rates were low with 130 of 2,631 patients refusing participation (4.9%). Of 474 eligible persons completing telephone screening, 365 (77.0%) completed their baseline visit and were randomized into the study. The study population was predominantly non-Hispanic Black (71.2%), female (68.5%) and reported annual household income of less than $35,000 (70.1%). Recruitment strategies included use of passive approval of potential participants by PCPs, use of part-time staff, and outsourcing calls to a call center. A total of 314 (86.0%) people completed the 24-month visit. Retention levels varied across study visits and intervention condition. Most participants completed three or more visits (69.6%), with 205 (56.2%) completing all four. At 24-months, lower retention was observed for males and the intervention condition. Retention strategies included building strong relationships with clinic staff, flexibility in overcoming participant barriers through use of taxi vouchers, night and weekend appointments, and keeping participants engaged via newsletters and social gatherings.


CONCLUSION
We were able to retain 86.0% of participants at 24-months. Recruitment and retention of high percentages of racial/ethnic minorities and lower income samples is possible with planning, coordination with a trusted community setting and staff (e.g. community health centers and RAs), adaptability and building strong relationships.


TRIAL REGISTRATION
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00661817.
Numerical Study on the Performance Effect of Solidity on the Straight-Bladed Vertical Axis Wind Turbine

The solidity is one of the most important factors which greatly affects the performance of the straight-bladed vertical axis wind turbine (SB-VAWT). In this study, numerical computations were carried out on a small model of the SB-VAWT with different solidities to invest its performance effects. Two kinds of solidity were decided, and for each one, three patterns were selected by changing the blade chord and number. Numerical computations based on the 2 dimensions incompressible steady flow were made. Flow fields around the SB-VAWT were obtained, and the torque and power coefficients were also calculated. According to the computation results under the conditions of this study, the effects of solidity on both the static and dynamic performance of the SB-VAWT were discussed. Keywords-vertical axis wind turbine;straight-bladed; numerical computation; solidity; stactic torque;power
Current Trends in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

The advances in the knowledge of anatomy, surgical techniques, and fixation devices have led to the improvement of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction over the past 10 years. Nowadays, double bundle and anatomical single bundle ACL reconstruction that more closely restores the normal anatomy of the ACL are becoming popular. Although there is still no definite conclusion whether double bundle ACL reconstruction provides better clinical results than single bundle reconstruction, the trend has shifted to anatomic reconstruction regardless of single bundle or double bundle techniques. We could not find any significant differences in the clinical outcomes and stability after ACL reconstruction according to the type of graft or fixation device. Therefore, surgeons should select an ideal ACL reconstruction according to the patient's condition and surgeon's experience.
Real Estate Valuation and Cross-Boundary Air Pollution Externalities: Evidence from Chinese Cities

Within an open system of cities, compensating differentials theory predicts that local real estate prices will be higher in cities with higher quality non-market local public goods. In this case, more polluted cities will feature lower home prices. A city’s air pollution levels depend on economic activity within the city and on crossborder pollution externalities. In this paper, we demonstrate that air pollution in Chinese cities is degraded by cross-boundary externalities. We use this exogenous source of variation in a city’s air pollution to present new robust estimates of the real estate impact of local air pollution. We find that reductions in cross-boundary pollution flows have significant effects on local home prices. On average, a 10 % decrease in imported neighbor pollution is associated with a 0.76 % increase in local home prices. We also find that the marginal valuation of clean air is larger in richer Chinese cities, and hukou barrier of labor migration has been further phased out.
VSA-II: a novel prototype of variable stiffness actuator for safe and performing robots interacting with humans

This paper presents design and performance of a novel joint based actuator for a robot run by variable stiffness actuation, meant for systems physically interacting with humans. This new actuator prototype (VSA-II) is developed as an improvement over our previously developed one reported in [9], where an optimal mechanical-control co-design principle established in [7] is followed as well. While the first version was built in a way to demonstrate effectiveness of variable impedance actuation (VIA), it had limitations in torque capacities, life cycle and implementability in a real robot. VSA-II overcomes the problem of implementability with higher capacities and robustness in design for longer life. The paper discusses design and stiffness behaviour of VSA-II in theory and experiments. A comparison of stiffness characteristics between the two actuator is discussed, highlighting the advantages of the new design. A simple, but effective PD scheme is employed to independently control joint-stiffness and joint-position of a 1-link arm. Finally, results from performed impact tests of 1- link arm are reported, showing the effectiveness of stiffness variation in controlling value of a safety metric.
Deadlock Prevention in a Distributed Database System

The distributed locking based approaches to concurrency control in a distributed database system, are prone to occurrence of deadlocks. An algorithm for deadlock prevention has been considered in this proposal. In this algorithm, a transaction is executed by forming wait for relations with other conflicting transactions. The technique for generation of this kind of precedence graph for transaction execution is analyzed. This approach is a fully distributed approach. The technique is free from deadlocks, avoids resubmission of transactions, and hence reduces processing delays within the distributed environment.