LLukas22/scidocs huggingface dataset:
Long-term effect of continuous positive airway pressure in hypertensive patients with sleep apnea.

RATIONALE
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the current treatment for patients with symptomatic obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Its use for all subjects with sleep-disordered breathing, regardless of daytime symptoms, is unclear.


OBJECTIVES
This multicenter controlled trial assesses the effects of 1 year of CPAP treatment on blood pressure (BP) in nonsymptomatic, hypertensive patients with OSA.


METHODS
We evaluated 359 patients with OSA. Inclusion criteria consisted of an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) greater than 19 hour(-1), an Epworth Sleepiness Scale score less than 11, and one of the following: under antihypertensive treatment or systolic blood pressure greater than 140 or diastolic blood pressure greater than 90 mm Hg. Patients were randomized to CPAP (n = 178) or to conservative treatment (n = 181). BP was evaluated at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up.


MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS
Mean (SD) values were as follows: age, 56 +/- 10 years; body mass index (BMI), 32 +/- 5 kg x m(-2); AHI, 45 +/- 20 hour(-1); and Epworth Sleepiness Scale score, 7 +/- 3. After adjusting for follow-up time, baseline blood pressure values, AHI, time with arterial oxygen saturation less than 90%, and BMI, together with the change in BMI at follow-up, CPAP treatment decreased systolic blood pressure by 1.89 mm Hg (95% confidence interval: -3.90, 0.11 mm Hg; P = 0.0654), and diastolic blood pressure by 2.19 mm Hg (95% confidence interval: -3.46, -0.93 mm Hg; P = 0.0008). The most significant reduction in BP was in patients who used CPAP for more than 5.6 hours per night. CPAP compliance was related to AHI and the decrease in Epworth Sleepiness Scale score.


CONCLUSIONS
In nonsleepy hypertensive patients with OSA, CPAP treatment for 1 year is associated with a small decrease in BP. This effect is evident only in patients who use CPAP for more than 5.6 hours per night. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00127348).
Total knee arthroplasty in Asian subjects: preoperative range of motion determines postoperative range of motion?

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate whether preoperative range of motion is a key determinant of postoperative range of motion in Asian patients undergoing conventional total knee arthroplasty.


METHODS
A retrospective review of 302 patients who underwent primary total knee arthroplasty performed by a single surgeon was conducted. Patients who had a fixed flexion deformity of ≥15° were excluded. Postoperative range of motion (ROM) was measured prospectively. Patients were stratified into two groups: preoperative ROM < 110° and preoperative ROM ≥ 110°. Postoperative ROM and mean change in ROM at 6 months and 2 years of follow-up were then compared using Student's t-test.


RESULTS
Group of ROM < 110° had a poorer postoperative range of motion at both 6-months and 2-years of follow-up than Group of ROM ≥ 110° (P < 0.001). Postoperatively, Group of ROM < 110° had gained range of motion whereas Group of ROM ≥ 110° had lost range of motion (P < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
Similar to the Western population, preoperative range of motion is a key determinant of postoperative range of motion in Asian patients. This should be taken into consideration by surgeons during preoperative planning and in managing patients' expectations.
Reliable and efficient autonomous driving: the need for heterogeneous vehicular networks

Autonomous driving technology has been regarded as a promising solution to reduce road accidents and traffic congestion, as well as to optimize the usage of fuel and lane. Reliable and highly efficient vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications are essential for commercial autonomous driving vehicles to be on the road before 2020. The current article first presents the concept of heterogeneous vehicular networks (HetVNETs) for autonomous driving, in which an improved protocol stack is proposed to satisfy the communication requirements of not only safety but also non-safety services. We then consider and study in detail several typical scenarios for autonomous driving. In order to tackle the potential challenges raised by the autonomous driving vehicles in HetVNETs, new techniques from transmission to networking are proposed as potential solutions.
A Functional Variant in MicroRNA-146a Promoter Modulates Its Expression and Confers Disease Risk for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with a strong genetic predisposition, characterized by an upregulated type I interferon pathway. MicroRNAs are important regulators of immune homeostasis, and aberrant microRNA expression has been demonstrated in patients with autoimmune diseases. We recently identified miR-146a as a negative regulator of the interferon pathway and linked the abnormal activation of this pathway to the underexpression of miR-146a in SLE patients. To explore why the expression of miR-146a is reduced in SLE patients, we conducted short parallel sequencing of potentially regulatory regions of miR-146a and identified a novel genetic variant (rs57095329) in the promoter region exhibiting evidence for association with SLE that was replicated independently in 7,182 Asians (P(meta) = 2.74×10(-8), odds ratio = 1.29 [1.18-1.40]). The risk-associated G allele was linked to reduced expression of miR-146a in the peripheral blood leukocytes of the controls. Combined functional assays showed that the risk-associated G allele reduced the protein-binding affinity and activity of the promoter compared with those of the promoter containing the protective A allele. Transcription factor Ets-1, encoded by the lupus-susceptibility gene ETS1, identified in recent genome-wide association studies, binds near this variant. The manipulation of Ets-1 levels strongly affected miR-146a promoter activity in vitro; and the knockdown of Ets-1, mimicking its reduced expression in SLE, directly impaired the induction of miR-146a. We also observed additive effects of the risk alleles of miR-146a and ETS1. Our data identified and confirmed an association between a functional promoter variant of miR-146a and SLE. This risk allele had decreased binding to transcription factor Ets-1, contributing to reduced levels of miR-146a in SLE patients.
The Infinity Computer and Numerical Computations with Infinite and Infinitesimal Numbers

A new methodology allowing one to execute numerical computations with finite, infinite, and infinitesimal numbers (see [7,9,15]) on a new type of a computer – the Infinity Computer – is introduced (see EU, USA, and Russian patents [8]). A calculator using the Infinity Computer technology is presented during the talk. The new approach is based on the principle ‘The part is less than the whole’ introduced by Ancient Greeks that is applied to all numbers (finite, infinite, and infinitesimal) and to all sets and processes (finite and infinite). It is shown that it becomes possible to write down finite, infinite, and infinitesimal numbers by a finite number of symbols as particular cases of a unique framework (different from that of the non-standard Analysis). The new methodology (see surveys [9,15]) evolves ideas of Cantor and Levi-Civita in a more applied way and (among other things) introduces infinite integers that possess both cardinal and ordinal properties as usual finite numbers (its relations with traditional approaches are discussed in [4,5,9,15]). Note that foundations of the Set Theory dealing with infinity have been developed starting from the end of the XIX-th century until more or less the first decades of the XX-th century. Foundations of the classical Analysis dealing both with infinity and infinitesimal quantities have been developed even earlier, more than 200 years ago, with the goal to develop mathematical tools allowing one to solve problems arising in the real world in that remote time. As a result, these parts of Mathematics reflect ideas that people had about Physics (including definitions of the notions continuous and discrete) more than 200 years ago. Thus, these mathematical tools do not include numerous achievements of Physics of the XX-th century. Even the brilliant non-standard Analysis of Robinson made
Using Goffman ’ s Frameworks to Explain Presence and Reality

This paper defines presence in terms of frames and involvement [1]. The value of this analysis of presence is demonstrated by applying it to several issues that have been raised about presence: residual awareness of nonmediation, imaginary presence, presence as categorical or continuum, and presence breaks. The paper goes on to explore the relationship between presence and reality. Goffman introduced frames to try to answer the question, “Under what circumstances do we think things real?” Under frame analysis there are three different conditions under which things are considered unreal, these are explained and related to the experience of presence. Frame analysis is used to show why virtual environments are not usually considered to be part of reality, although the virtual spaces of phone interaction are considered real. The analysis also yields practical suggestions for extending presence within virtual environments. Keywords--presence, frames, virtual environments, mobile phones, Goffman.
Landing dynamic analysis for landing leg of lunar lander using Abaqus/Explicit

One of the major tasks in the design and optimization process of a new landing gear system for a lunar lander is to accurately determine the loads and energy absorption capability during the landing event. The works of this paper describes a new approach of landing impact dynamic analysis using nonlinear finite element method. Abaqus/Explicit, which is part of Abaqus suite of finite element analysis software, is selected to simulate the landing event for its excellent nonlinear, transient dynamics capabilities. The aluminum honeycomb shock absorber is modeled by plastic crushable foam material model, while the lunar soil is modeled by Drucker-Prager/Cap material model. Simulation results, including the load at connector between structure and landing gear, acceleration response of structure and dissipated energy by the shock absorber and lunar soil, are given and discussed. It shows that the performance of landing gear meets the design requirements.
Adherence and well-being in overweight and obese patients referred to an exercise on prescription scheme: a self-determination theory perspective.

Objectives: Based on Self-Determination Theory [SDT; Deci & Ryan, 1985. Intrinsic motivation and self determination in human behavior. New York: Plenum Press], this study examined differences in perceived autonomy support, psychological need satisfaction, self-determined motivation, exercise behaviour, exercise-related cognitions and general well-being, between overweight/obese individuals who demonstrated greater adherence to an exercise on prescription programme and those who adhered less. In addition, this study explored the motivational sequence embedded in SDT by testing autonomy support as a predictor of psychological need satisfaction, autonomy support and psychological need satisfaction as predictors of the motivational regulations, and autonomy support, psychological need satisfaction and the motivational regulations as predictors of behavioural, cognitive and well-being outcomes. Method: Before commencing, at 1-month, and upon terminating a 3-month exercise on prescription programme, overweight/obese individuals (N 1⁄4 49; M Body Mass Index 1⁄4 38.75) completed a multisection questionnaire tapping all aforementioned variables. Participants’ adherence to the scheme was assessed using attendance records. Results: Multilevel regression analyses revealed that, at the end of the exercise prescription, those individuals who adhered more reported more self-efficacy to overcome barriers to exercise versus those who adhered less. In addition, those individuals who showed greater adherence demonstrated an increase in relatedness need satisfaction over time. For the whole sample, need satisfaction predicted self-determined see front matter r 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. psychsport.2006.07.006 ding author. Tel.: +44 2476 887820. ress: j.edmunds@coventry.ac.uk (J. Edmunds).
A control-oriented model for piston trajectory-based HCCI combustion

Previously, the authors have proposed the concept of piston trajectory-based homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) combustion control enabled by a free piston engine and shown the effects of variable piston trajectories on the start of combustion timing, heat loss amount and indicated output work. In order to realize this new control in practical applications, a control-oriented model with reduced chemical kinetics has to be developed. In this paper, such a model is presented and is compared to two existing models: a simplified model using a global reaction and a complex model including detailed chemical reaction mechanisms. A cycle separation method is employed in the proposed model to significantly reduce the computational time and guarantee the prediction accuracy simultaneously. A feedback controller is also implemented on the control-oriented model to control the HCCI combustion phasing by varying the trajectories. The simulation results show that the combustion phasing can be adjusted as desired, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the piston trajectory-based combustion control.
Literary objects : Flaubert

Literary Objects: Flaubert explores the concept of the commodity as seen through the writings of Gustav Flaubert. A selection of furniture, paintings, prints, sculpture, and other objets d'art together with selected passages from Flaubert's writings refer to the overlapping worlds of the French middle class: the domestic interior, the political arena, the imagined Orient, and the historical past. The book seeks to both evoke and illuminate Flaubert's literary concerns in new and powerful visual terms, while providing a new context for 19th-century French artworks.
Validity of the school setting interview for students with special educational needs in regular high school – a Rasch analysis

BACKGROUND
Participation in education is a vital component of adolescents' everyday life and a determinant of health and future opportunities in adult life. The School Setting Interview (SSI) is an instrument which assesses student-environment fit and reflects the potential needs for adjustments to enhance students' participation in school activities. The aim of the study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the SSI for students with special educational needs in regular high school.


METHODS
A sample of 509 students with special educational needs was assessed with the SSI. The polytomous unrestricted Rasch model was used to analyze the psychometric properties of the SSI regarding targeting, model fit, differential item functioning (DIF), response category functioning and unidimensionality.


RESULTS
The SSI generally confirmed fit to assumptions of the Rasch model. Reliability was acceptable (0.73) and the SSI scale was able to separate students into three different levels of student-environment fit. DIF among gender was detected in item "Remember things" and in item "Homework" DIF was detected among students with or without diagnosis. All items had disordered thresholds. The SSI demonstrated unidimensionality and no response dependence was present among items.


CONCLUSION
The results suggest that the SSI is valid for use among students with special educational needs in order to provide and evaluate environmental adjustments. However, the items with the detected DIF and the SSI rating scale with its disordered thresholds needs to be further scrutinized.
Adherence to protein restriction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized trial

Objective: To describe the extent to which diet counselling can decrease protein intake, and to identify predictors of adherence.Design: (1) Randomized trial; (2) observational longitudinal study.Subjects: (1) 125 type 2 diabetic patients in primary care; (2) 59 patients in the experimental group.Intervention: For a period of 12 months, dieticians provided guidance on protein restriction (experimental group, n=59) or the usual dietary advice (control group, n=66).Outcome measures: Adherence was estimated primarily from urinary urea excretion (UUE), but also from food-frequency questionnaires (FFQ).Results: After 6 months protein intake was, according to the UUE and the FFQ, respectively, 8 g/day (95% CI −2, 13) (8%) and 15 g/day (95%−CI 9, 22) (16%) lower in the experimental than in the control group. After 12 months these differences were smaller. Linear regression analysis indicated that protein restriction was greater in patients who were well satisfied with their pre-existing diet (r=0.32, bper 1/10=3.6 (1, 6) g), in patients who were less overweight (r=0.32, bper kg.m−2=1.1 (0.2, 2.0) g), and in patients living alone (r=0.22, b=7.7 (−2, 17) g). These combined factors explained only 11% of variation in adherence. Adherence was not predicted by the number of barriers reported by the patients or by coinciding changes in diet satisfaction.Conclusions: The diet counselling resulted in a very moderate degree of protein restriction only. Predictors of adherence could be identified, but only a few, and their predictive power was limited.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2000) 54, 347–352
Autonomous stair climbing for mobile tracked robot

In this paper, we consider the problem of overcoming a flight of stairs in an uncertain environment with an autonomous tracked robot. A complete autonomous stair climbing module is developed which handles a number of tasks involved in stair climbing and a divide and conquer approach is adopted where the stair climbing challenge is further divided into several individual tasks such as stairs detection in an uncertain environment, intelligent climbing control to overcome the stairs, detection of the end of the stairs and the subsequent landing procedure to prevent damage to the onboard devices. A fuzzy control is developed and experimental results obtained have clearly illustrated the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Recursion-Closed Algebraic Theories

Abstract A class of algebraic theories called “recursion-closed,” which generalize the rational theories studied by J. A. Goguen, J. W. Thatcher, E. G. Wagner and J. B. Wright in [ in “Proceedings, 17th IEEE Symposium on Foundations of Computer Science, Houston, Texas, October 1976,” pp. 147–158; in “Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science, 1978,” Lecture Notes in Computer Science, Vol. 64, Springer-Verlag, New York/Berlin, 1978; “Free Continuous Theories,” Technical Report RC 6906, IBM T. J. Watson Reserch Center, Yorktown Heights, N.Y., December 1977; “Notes on Algebraic Fundamentals for Theoretical Computer Science,” IBM Technical Report, 1979], is investigated. This work is motivated by the problem of providing the semantics of arbitrary polyadic recursion schemes in the framework of algebraic theories. It is suggested by Goguen et al. (“Proceedings, 17th IEEE Symposium”) that the semantics of arbitrary polyadic recursion schemes can be handled using algebraic theories. The results show that this is indeed the case, but that “rational theories” are insufficient and that it is necessary to introduce a new class of “recursion-closed” algebraic theories. This new class of algebraic theories, is defined and studied, and “free recursion-closed algebraic theories” are proved to exist.
Binder-free Co(OH)2 nanoflake–ITO nanowire heterostructured electrodes for electrochemical energy storage with improved high-rate capabilities

We present the fabrication of binder-free Co(OH)2 nanoflake–ITO nanowire heterostructured electrodes via a combination of chemical vapor deposition and electrodeposition methods for electrochemical energy storage applications. Detailed studies showed that the specific capacitance retention capabilities of these hybrid electrodes were greatly enhanced in comparison to electrodes without nanowire augmentation. The improvement was further verified by our statistical studies of electrodes with loading masses in the range of 0–500 mg cm . The highly conductive ITO nanowires can serve as direct electron paths during the charge/discharge process, facilitating the full utilization of electroactive materials. These rigid oxide nanowire supports enable facile and uniform surface coating and are expected to be more stable than previous composite electrodes based on carbon nanotubes. This study provides a promising architecture for binder-free electrochemical capacitors with excellent capacitance retention capabilities.
Gas-inducible transgene expression in mammalian cells and mice

We describe the design and detailed characterization of a gas-inducible transgene control system functional in different mammalian cells, mice and prototype biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The acetaldehyde-inducible AlcR-PalcA transactivator-promoter interaction of the Aspergillus nidulans ethanol-catabolizing regulon was engineered for gas-adjustable transgene expression in mammalian cells. Fungal AlcR retained its transactivation characteristics in a variety of mammalian cell lines and reversibly adjusted transgene transcription from chimeric mammalian promoters (PAIR) containing PalcA-derived operators in a gaseous acetaldehyde-dependent manner. Mice implanted with microencapsulated cells engineered for acetaldehyde-inducible regulation (AIR) of the human glycoprotein secreted placental alkaline phosphatase showed adjustable serum phosphatase levels after exposure to different gaseous acetaldehyde concentrations. AIR-controlled interferon-β production in transgenic CHO-K1-derived serum-free suspension cultures could be modulated by fine-tuning inflow and outflow of acetaldehyde-containing gas during standard bioreactor operation. AIR technology could serve as a tool for therapeutic transgene dosing as well as biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
Face Recognition Based on Curvefaces

A new method called curvefaces was firstly presented for face recognition, which is based on curvelet transform. Curvelet is the latest multiscale geometric analysis tool. Contrast to wavelet transform, curvelet transform directly takes edges as the basic representation elements and is anisotropic with strong direction. It is a multiresolution, band pass and directional function analysis method which is useful to represent the image edges and the curved singularities in images more efficiently. It yields a more sparse representation of the image than wavelet and ridgelet transform. In face recognition, the curvelet coefficients can better represent the main features of the faces. The support vector machine (SVM) can then be used to classify the images. SVM is based on the statistical learning theory and is especially valid for small sample set and can get high recognition rate. Multi-class SVM is employed in this paper. The simulation shows that the proposed method is better than wavelet based method.