bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Discovering optimal weights in weighted-scoring stock-picking models: a mixture design approach
Authors: Yeh I-Cheng , Liu Yi-Cheng 
Published: November 2020

AbstractCertain literature that constructs a multifactor stock selection model adopted a weighted-scoring approach despite its three shortcomings. First, it cannot effectively identify the connection between the weights of stock-picking concepts and portfolio performances. Second, it cannot provide stock-picking concepts’ optimal combination of weights. Third, it cannot meet various investor preferences. Thus, this study employs a mixture experimental design to determine the weights of stock-picking concepts, collect portfolio performance data, and construct performance prediction models based on the weights of stock-picking concepts. Furthermore, these performance prediction models and optimization techniques are employed to discover stock-picking concepts’ optimal combination of weights that meet investor preferences. The samples consist of stocks listed on the Taiwan stock market. The modeling and testing periods were 1997–2008 and 2009–2015, respectively. Empirical evidence showed (1) that our methodology is robust in predicting performance accurately, (2) that it can identify significant interactions between stock-picking concepts’ weights, and (3) that which their optimal combination should be. This combination of weights can form stock portfolios with the best performances that can meet investor preferences. Thus, our methodology can fill the three drawbacks of the classical weighted-scoring approach.
Near-infrared reflectance imaging of neovascularization in proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Vaz-Pereira Sara , Monteiro-Grillo Manuel , Engelbert Michael 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background
Blood is one of the main absorbers in the near-infrared spectrum and thus retinal vessels appear dark in near-infrared reflectance (NIR) images. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is characterized by abnormal neovascularization which also absorbs light and appears dark against a lighter fundus background. We analyzed neovascularization in PDR using NIR imaging, by observing changes in the neovascular complexes (NVCs) contrast and reflectivity over time.

Methods
Retrospective case series of 20 eyes of 17 patients with PDR who underwent NIR imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT) using the Spectralis System. NVCs presence and activity was determined using clinical, tomographic and angiographic criteria. At baseline, all NVCs were qualitatively graded in the NIR image into 3 groups (absent, present and inactive and present and active) and their evolution over time was registered as progression, regression or same status.

Results
Twenty-seven NVCs were imaged, of which, 52% were neovascularization of the disc (NVD) and 48% were elsewhere (NVE). Consecutive NIR images were obtained from baseline to up to 5 time-points with a mean follow-up of 3.2 ± 1.7 years. All eyes underwent laser treatment and 30% had additional intravitreal therapy. Using NIR imaging, NVCs were classified at baseline as absent, present and inactive and present and active, respectively in 11, 4 and 85% of cases. NIR identified active neovascularization as hyporeflective irregular dark vessels originating from the retinal venules in NVE or from the disc in NVD. In all groups during follow-up, progression was identified as the development of new vascular hyporeflective dark fronds while regression was shown by reduced dark perfusion. Five eyes developed a wolf’s jaw configuration with vascular hyporeflective new vessels and hyperreflective tissue from extensive fibrosis. Fibrosis was more apparent in later images, reaching 86%. In 3 cases (11%), the NVC was no longer seen in NIR, although was still identifiable on OCT over the NVC area.

Conclusions
NIR is a non-invasive imaging modality commonly performed alongside OCT and frequently overlooked which can be useful to evaluate NVCs in PDR. Changes in NVC contrast and reflectivity due to blood perfusion can help in the detection and monitoring of diabetic proliferative disease and aid clinicians in daily practice.
How can technology support ageing in place in healthy older adults? A systematic review
Authors: Ollevier Aline , Aguiar Gabriel , Palomino Marco , Simpelaere Ingeborg Sylvia 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background
Ageing in place has recently gained visibility in healthcare policies and services. Technology has the potential to facilitate independence at home. The objective of this systematic review is to identify technologies that have been rigorously evaluated for supporting the ageing in place of healthy older adults. As well we explored the methods in engagement with technology in healthy older adults.

Methods
Databases Pubmed, Scopus, PsycInfo and Cinahl were consulted for clinical controlled trials or randomised controlled trials between 2014 and 2019. Studies were included if they contained a technological intervention and focussed on supporting healthy older adults’ independent living. PRISMA guidelines and the risk of bias tool of the Cochrane Collaboration were applied.

Results
The search identified 3662 articles of which only 7 made the final analysis. Through narrative analysis, technologies were categorised into three groups: accessible communication, emergency assistance and physical and mental well-being. Patient-centredness was extensively addressed by exploring how the participants engaged in the development and evaluation of the technology and how they were trained and monitored.

Conclusions
Literature concerning technology to support ageing, based on controlled trials and research performed in authentic home situations, is scarce. Thus, there is a need to investigate the subject in depth. The use of a neurofeedback headband, an accessible computer system, a wristband with pedometer, a biofeedback device and an online video platform can bring added value to ageing in place for healthy older adults. A patient-centred approach for developing, implementing and evaluating technology benefits ageing in place.
Global strategies and effectiveness for COVID-19 prevention through contact tracing, screening, quarantine, and isolation: a systematic review
Authors: Girum Tadele , Lentiro Kifle , Geremew Mulugeta , Migora Biru , Shewamare Sisay 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background
COVID-19 is an emerging disease caused by highly contagious virus called SARS-CoV-2. It caused an extensive health and economic burden around the globe. There is no proven effective treatment yet, except certain preventive mechanisms. Some studies assessing the effects of different preventive strategies have been published. However, there is no conclusive evidence. Therefore, this study aimed to review evidences related to COVID-19 prevention strategies achieved through contact tracing, screening, quarantine, and isolation to determine best practices.

Methods
We conducted a systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines by searching articles from major medical databases such as PubMed/Medline, Global Health Database, Embase, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and clinical trial registries. Non-randomized and modeling articles published to date in areas of COVID prevention with contact tracing, screening, quarantine, and isolation were included. Two experts screened the articles and assessed risk of bias with ROBINS-I tool and certainty of evidence with GRADE approach. The findings were presented narratively and in tabular form.

Results
We included 22 (9 observational and 13 modeling) studies. The studies consistently reported the benefit of quarantine, contact tracing, screening, and isolation in different settings. Model estimates indicated that quarantine of exposed people averted 44 to 81% of incident cases and 31 to 63% of deaths. Quarantine along with others can also halve the reproductive number and reduce the incidence, thus, shortening the epidemic period effectively. Early initiation of quarantine, operating large-scale screenings, strong contact tracing systems, and isolation of cases can effectively reduce the epidemic. However, adhering only to screening and isolation with lower coverage can miss more than 75% of asymptomatic cases; hence, it is not effective.

Conclusion
Quarantine, contact tracing, screening, and isolation are effective measures of COVID-19 prevention, particularly when integrated together. In order to be more effective, quarantine should be implemented early and should cover a larger community.
Content validity of a sleep numerical rating scale and a sleep diary in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis
Authors: Dias-Barbosa Carla , Matos Rodolfo , Vernon Margaret , Carney Colleen E. , Krystal Andrew , Puelles Jorge 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe intense itching associated with atopic dermatitis (AD) often causes patients to experience severe sleep disturbance. Here, we describe the results of a two-phase concept elicitation and cognitive interview study to establish the content validity of a sleep disturbance numerical rating scale (SD NRS) and a Consensus Sleep Diary adapted for adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe AD (CSD-AD©).ResultsIn phase I, a concept elicitation conducted in 20 adults and 10 adolescents with moderate-to-severe AD revealed that the following sleep-related issues were important and relevant: nighttime awakening (87%), trouble falling asleep (73%), feeling unrested (53%), daytime fatigue or sleepiness (53%), and feeling as if they did not get enough sleep (33%). The frequency and extent of sleep disturbance varied substantially from day to day due to varying degrees of itching and flares, medication use, and changes in the weather. All participants understood the SD NRS question, with most finding it easy or very easy to understand (100% of adults and 90% of adolescents) and most understanding the anchors as intended (95% of adults, and 100% of adolescents). Most participants (94% of adults, and 90% of adolescents) indicated that they would consider a one- or two-point change meaningful on the SD NRS. The CSD-AD© was revised based on participant feedback, and tested during phase II in a convenience sample of six adults and four adolescents from phase I. The changes made to the CSD-AD© were confirmed to be relevant and understandable. All patients were able to provide an answer to each item in the CSD-AD©, and most were able to estimate the duration of nighttime awakenings, daytime naps, and dozing.ConclusionsThe study supported the content validity of the SD NRS and CSD-AD© in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe AD. It also emphasized the importance of using these instruments daily when assessing the benefit of a new treatment on sleep quality in this population.
Prenatal presentation of Walker–Warburg syndrome with a POMT2 mutation: an extended fetal phenotype
Authors: El-Dessouky Sara H. , Hosny Heba , Elarab Ahmed Ezz , Issa Mahmoud Y. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background
Walker–Warburg syndrome (WWS) is a rare, lethal, genetically, and clinically heterogeneous congenital muscular dystrophy resulting from defective glycosylation of α-dystroglycan (α-DG) and is associated with both cranial and ocular malformations. Prenatal detection of posterior fossa anomalies in association with hydrocephalus are nonspecific, however, an additional finding of eye anomalies are typical for WWS. The purpose of this report is to elucidate the pattern of associated malformations in a fetus with WWS born to 3rd degree consanguineously married couple. Additionally, the fetal ultrasonography revealed congenital heart disease, clenched hands, and talipes equinovarus; these findings have not been previously reported and represent an expansion of prenatal spectrum associated with WWS.

Case presentation
We report on a specific sonographic pattern of congenital anomalies including hydrocephalus, agenesis of corpus callosum, and Dandy–Walker malformation. Ocular abnormalities include microphthalmia, cataract, and an echoic structure suggestive of persistent primary vitreous. Other features include congenital heart disease, unilateral multicystic kidney, and previously unreported findings of bilateral clenched hands and talipes equinovarus. The molecular analysis detected a homozygous splicing mutation, c.924-2A>C, in the POMT2 gene; this variant segregated with the phenotype.

Conclusion
WWS syndrome has characteristic prenatal ultrasound findings which can improve the prenatal identification of this condition and help in guiding the molecular diagnosis and counseling. The detection of bilateral clenched hands and talipes equinovarus is a novel finding that further expands the phenotypic spectrum of WWS.
Relationship of serum vitamin D levels with coronary thrombus grade, TIMI flow, and myocardial blush grade in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Abdallah Abdallah Ahmed , Elrhman Mohamed Ahmed Abd , Elshazly Ahmd , Bastawy Islam 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background
Vitamin D deficiency is a prevalent condition that is found in about 30–50% of the general population, and it is increasing as a new risk factor for coronary artery disease. Our study aimed to evaluate the relationship of serum vitamin D levels with coronary thrombus burden, Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction flow grade, and myocardial blush grade in patients managed by primary percutaneous coronary intervention for their first acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Results
Eighty patients were included in the study with their first acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and were managed by primary percutaneous coronary intervention. According to the serum concentrations of vitamin D, the study population was divided into 2 groups: group A with abnormal vitamin D levels less than 30 ng/ml (50 patients) and group B with normal vitamin D levels equal to or more than 30 ng/ml (30 patients). Angiographic data was recorded before and after coronary intervention. On comparing thrombus grade and initial and post-procedural Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction flow between both groups of patients, there was no significant difference (p = 0.327, p = 0.692, p = 0.397). However, myocardial blush grade was better in patients with normal vitamin D levels (p = 0.029) without a significant correlation between vitamin D concentration values and myocardial blush grade (r = 0.164, p = 0.146).

Conclusions
Patients with first acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and normal vitamin D levels undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention had better myocardial blush grade and more successful microvascular reperfusion in comparison with patients with abnormal vitamin D levels. There was no significant difference between the normal and abnormal vitamin D groups regarding the coronary thrombus grade and Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction flow.
Tensile mechanical properties of fly ash concrete at early age for thermal stress analysis
Authors: Mimura Yoichi , Vimonsatit Vanissorn , Horiguchi Itaru , Yoshitake Isamu 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe present study investigates tensile properties of concrete with and without fly ash at early age, such as tensile Young’s modulus, strength and creep. Some Young’s modulus of fly ash concrete for thermal crack analysis was compared with the tensile Young’s modulus, secant modulus, initial tangent modulus and linear modulus obtained from the direct tension test and compression test. The tensile creep test was also performed to obtain the specific creep behavior considering decrease in elastic strain due to stiffness development at early age during creep test. The results show that the Young’s modulus for crack evaluation can be obtained from the compression test based on the stress range less than the splitting tensile strength, while the compressive secant modulus was smaller than the tensile Young’s modulus. The decrease of the elastic strain at early age contributes more to the evaluation of the tensile creep than the use of the fly ash mixing.
What is better for rotator cuff tendinopathy: dextrose prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma, or corticosteroid injections? A randomized controlled study
Authors: Sabaah Hala M. Abd Elsabour , Nassif Mary A. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background
Rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT) is a leading cause of shoulder pain and disability. Management is mainly conservative, but the limited ability of tendons to regenerate is the main cause of unsatisfactory results. So, we conducted our study to compare the efficacy of deep prolotherapy (glucose 25%), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and betamethasone corticosteroid for treatment of RCT to find the most effective one based on clinical, functional, and radiological assessment.

Results
Regarding visual analog scale (VAS), it was significantly (p < 0.001) improved after injection among group 1 (prolotherapy group) and group 3 (steroid group) patients, while no significant improvement was noted among group 2 (PRP group) (p = 0.212) patients. The Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) Index significantly improved among the studied groups (p < 0.001, p = 0.049, and p < 0.001, respectively) after injection. Regarding the range of motion (ROM), a significant improvement (p = 0.029) was achieved in group 1 after injection but no significant improvements were noted among group 2 and 3 patients (p = 0.529 and 0.121, respectively). There was a significant improvement among group 1 and 2 patients (p < 0.001 and p = 0.020, respectively) regarding the grade of tendon lesions but no improvement occurred among group 3 patients (p = 0.470).

Conclusion
Prolotherapy injections improve shoulder ROM, VAS, WORC index, and rotator cuff tendon healing while PRP injections improve WORC index and tendon healing but steroid injection has no effect on healing.

Trial registration
PACTR202005610509496. Retrospective registration on May 25, 2020, Pan African Clinical Trial Registry.
Dissecting Hes-centred transcriptional networks in neural stem cell maintenance and tumorigenesis in Drosophila
Authors: Magadi Srivathsa S. , Voutyraki Chrysanthi , Anagnostopoulos Gerasimos , Zacharioudaki Evanthia , Poutakidou Ioanna K. , Efraimoglou Christina , Stapountzi Margarita , Theodorou Vasiliki , Nikolaou Christoforos , Koumbanakis Konstantinos A. , Fullard John F. , Delidakis Christos 
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACT
Neural stem cells divide during embryogenesis and juvenile life to generate the entire complement of neurons and glia in the nervous system of vertebrates and invertebrates. Studies of the mechanisms controlling the fine balance between neural stem cells and more differentiated progenitors have shown that, in every asymmetric cell division, progenitors send a Delta-Notch signal to their sibling stem cells. Here, we show that excessive activation of Notch or overexpression of its direct targets of the Hes family causes stem-cell hyperplasias in the Drosophila larval central nervous system, which can progress to malignant tumours after allografting to adult hosts. We combined transcriptomic data from these hyperplasias with chromatin occupancy data for Dpn, a Hes transcription factor, to identify genes regulated by Hes factors in this process. We show that the Notch/Hes axis represses a cohort of transcription factor genes. These are excluded from the stem cells and promote early differentiation steps, most likely by preventing the reversion of immature progenitors to a stem-cell fate. We describe the impact of two of these ‘anti-stemness’ factors, Zfh1 and Gcm, on Notch/Hes-triggered tumorigenesis.
Adaptive platform trials using multi-arm, multi-stage protocols: getting fast answers in pandemic settings
Authors: Noor Nurulamin M. , Pett Sarah L. , Esmail Hanif , Crook Angela M. , Vale Claire L. , Sydes Matthew R. , Parmar Mahesh K.B. 
Published: November 2020

Global health pandemics, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), require efficient and well-conducted trials to determine effective interventions, such as treatments and vaccinations. Early work focused on rapid sequencing of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), subsequent in-vitro and in-silico work, along with greater understanding of the different clinical phases of the infection, have helped identify a catalogue of potential therapeutic agents requiring assessment. In a pandemic, there is a need to quickly identify efficacious treatments, and reject those that are non-beneficial or even harmful, using randomised clinical trials. Whilst each potential treatment could be investigated across multiple, separate, competing two-arm trials, this is a very inefficient process. Despite the very large numbers of interventional trials for COVID-19, the vast majority have not used efficient trial designs. Well conducted, adaptive platform trials utilising a multi-arm multi-stage (MAMS) approach provide a solution to overcome limitations of traditional designs. The multi-arm element allows multiple different treatments to be investigated simultaneously against a shared, standard-of-care control arm. The multi-stage element uses interim analyses to assess accumulating data from the trial and ensure that only treatments showing promise continue to recruitment during the next stage of the trial. The ability to test many treatments at once and drop insufficiently active interventions significantly speeds up the rate at which answers can be achieved. This article provides an overview of the benefits of MAMS designs and successes of trials, which have used this approach to COVID-19. We also discuss international collaboration between trial teams, including prospective agreement to synthesise trial results, and identify the most effective interventions. We believe that international collaboration will help provide faster answers for patients, clinicians, and health care systems around the world, including for each further wave of COVID-19, and enable preparedness for future global health pandemics.
Narcolepsy in Parkinson's disease with insulin resistance
Authors: Chunduri Alisha , Crusio Wim E. , Delprato Anna 
Published: November 2020

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by its progression of motor-related symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and difficulty with walking and balance. Comorbid conditions in PD individuals include insulin resistance (IR) and narcolepsy-like sleep patterns. The intersecting sleep symptoms of both conditions include excessive daytime sleepiness, hallucinations, insomnia, and falling into REM sleep more quickly than an average person. Understanding of the biological basis and relationship of these comorbid disorders with PD may help with early detection and intervention strategies to improve quality of life. Methods: In this study, an integrative genomics and systems biology approach was used to analyze gene expression patterns associated with PD, IR, and narcolepsy in order to identify genes and pathways that may shed light on how these disorders are interrelated. A correlation analysis with known genes associated with these disorders (LRRK2, HLA-DQB1, and HCRT) was used to query microarray data corresponding to brain regions known to be involved in PD and narcolepsy. This includes the hypothalamus, dorsal thalamus, pons, and subcoeruleus nucleus. Risk factor genes for PD, IR, and narcolepsy were also incorporated into the analysis. Results: The PD and narcolepsy signaling networks are connected through insulin and immune system pathways. Important genes and pathways that link PD, narcolepsy, and IR are CACNA1C, CAMK1D, BHLHE41, HMGB1, and AGE-RAGE. Conclusions: We have identified the genetic signatures that link PD with its comorbid disorders, narcolepsy and insulin resistance, from the convergence and intersection of dopaminergic, insulin, and immune system related signaling pathways. These findings may aid in the design of early intervention strategies and treatment regimes for non-motor symptoms in PD patients as well as individuals with diabetes and narcolepsy.