bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SGLT2 Inhibition for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chronic Kidney Disease, and NAFLD
Authors: Ala Moein
Published: August 2021

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are the latest class of antidiabetic medications. They prevent glucose reabsorption in the proximal convoluted tubule to decrease blood sugar. Several animal studies revealed that SGLT-2 is profoundly involved in the inflammatory response, fibrogenesis, and regulation of numerous intracellular signaling pathways. Likewise, SGLT-2 inhibitors markedly attenuated inflammation and fibrogenesis and improved the function of damaged organ in animal studies, observational studies, and clinical trials. SGLT-2 inhibitors can decrease blood pressure and ameliorate hypertriglyceridemia and obesity. Likewise, they improve the outcome of cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and ischemic heart disease. SGLT-2 inhibitors are associated with lower cardiovascular and all-cause mortality as well. Meanwhile, they protect against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, and improve micro- and macroalbuminuria. SGLT-2 inhibitors can reprogram numerous signaling pathways to improve NAFLD, cardiovascular diseases, and renal diseases. For instance, they enhance lipolysis, ketogenesis, mitochondrial biogenesis, and autophagy while they attenuate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, lipogenesis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and fibrogenesis. This review explains the beneficial effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on NAFLD and cardiovascular and renal diseases and dissects the underlying molecular mechanisms in detail. This narrative review explains the beneficial effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on NAFLD and cardiovascular and renal diseases using the results of latest observational studies, clinical trials, and meta-analyses. Thereafter, it dissects the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in the clinical effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on these diseases.
Developmental expression patterns of toolkit genes in male accessory gland ofDrosophilaparallels those of mammalian prostate
Authors: Kumari Jaya , Sinha Pradip
Published: August 2021

Conservation of genetic toolkits in disparate phyla may help reveal commonalities in organ designs transcending their extreme anatomical disparities. A male accessory sexual organ in mammals, the prostate, for instance, is anatomically disparate from its analogous, phylogenetically distant counterpart – the male accessory gland (MAG) – in insects like Drosophila. It has not been ascertained if the anatomically disparate Drosophila MAG shares developmental parallels with those of the mammalian prostate. Here we show that the development of Drosophila mesoderm-derived MAG entails recruitment of similar genetic toolkits of tubular organs like that seen in endoderm-derived mammalian prostate. For instance, like mammalian prostate, Drosophila MAG morphogenesis is marked by recruitment of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) – a signalling pathway often seen recruited for tubulogenesis – starting early during its adepithelial genesis. A specialisation of the individual domains of the developing MAG tube, on the other hand, is marked by the expression of a posterior Hox gene transcription factor, Abd-B, while Hh-Dpp signalling marks its growth. Drosophila MAG, therefore, reveals the developmental design of a unitary bud-derived tube that appears to have been co-opted for the development of male accessory sexual organs across distant phylogeny and embryonic lineages.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
A scoping review of the evidence for the impact of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions on shift work related sleep disturbance in an occupational setting
Authors: Conway-Jones Rebecca , Dunlop Ella , Kyle Simon , Ray David , Roberts Nia , Farmer Andrew
Published: August 2021

Background: Shift work is essential in society but can be detrimental to health and quality of life and is associated with decreased productivity and increased risk of accidents. Interventions to reduce these consequences are needed, but the extent and range of trial evidence for interventions for those most affected by their shift-work schedules is unclear. We therefore carried out a scoping review to assess the availability of evidence to inform the development and evaluation of future interventions.

Methods: We aimed to identify clinical trials of any intervention for shift work-related sleep disturbance that included a comparator group, where the intervention was delivered in an occupational setting. We searched Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline and Science Citation Index from inception to 30th March 2020 for relevant citations. Citations were screened by two independent reviewers, a third reviewer resolved disagreements. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers.

Results: From 1250 unique citations, 14 studies met inclusion criteria for comparative trials of treatment in an occupational setting. There were five trials of hypnotics, five trials of stimulants, and four trials of non-pharmacological therapies (cognitive behavioural therapy, light therapy, aromatherapy and herbal medicine). Outcomes included sleep parameters, day-time sleepiness, and quality of life. There were no consistently reported outcomes across trials.

Conclusions: Interventions fell into three distinct groups investigated in distinct time periods without progression from efficacy trials to wider-scale interventions. The lack of consistent patient-reported outcome measures limits synthesising findings. Some trials focussed on optimising sleep, others on reducing wake-time sleepiness. Adequately powered trials of existing interventions are needed, with the development and testing of novel combination treatments in patients with well-defined shift work sleep disorder. A core set of clinically relevant outcomes will develop and standardise the evidence-base for shift work sleep disorder.
ASSESSMENT OF FOOD SECURITY IN RUSSIA
Authors: Safiullin Il'nur , Ziganshin Bulat , Amirova Elmira , Klychova Guzaliya , Nizamutdinov Marat
Published: August 2021

The article analyzes the issues of food security of the Russian Federation: the assessment of food security is carried out; The main indicators used were the achievement of threshold values of indicators of food independence, economic and physical accessibility of food and the compliance of food products with the requirements of the legislation of the Eurasian Economic Union on technical regulation. Conclusions are made that the structure of consumption does not correspond to scientifically grounded nutritional standards; the required level of consumption is not reached for such types of food as fruits, milk, vegetables; Russia's population spends less than one third of its own income on food, which indicates an average level of food availability. In recent years, high results of economic activity have been achieved in certain sectors of agriculture, however, there are also significant reserves for ensuring a more sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Russia, and, accordingly, ensuring food security.
TRAINING OF PERSONNEL FOR AGRICULTURE IN THE DIGITAL ECONOMY
Authors: Subaeva Asiya , Avhadiev Fayaz
Published: August 2021

In connection with the introduction of digital technologies, many companies plan to hire new employees with digital competencies, or retrain existing employees in the workplace, or outsource some functions to external contractors, thereby reducing the number of employees who do not have the required competencies. Based on the analysis of the different approaches of the existing educational standards for the four enlarged groups of specialties and areas of training that determine the agricultural profile of agricultural universities, it can be concluded that in many educational standards of higher education institutions there are no competencies for the formation of digital literacy among students (master’s and master’s degrees) in the rest it is only the initial stage of digital literacy. In this regard, the development and implementation of a model for the transformation of agricultural personnel into digital agriculture, based on the principle of continuity, network interaction, social responsibility of business and education, is becoming the most relevant.

To solve this problem, to form a modern system of training personnel for agriculture in the digital economy, a model of the cluster-network platform “Advanced training and training of personnel in the conditions of digital transformation of agriculture” has been designed, which will allow adapting the educational potential of programs to specific requirements and the formation of digital competencies; to form an effective system of end-to-end and continuous acquisition of new competencies in the digital economy by bringing together representatives of science, government and business into a single digital space. Thus, this project will allow participants to complement each other to increase the intensity of activities at the digital stage of agribusiness transformation, and industry educational institutions to become centers of regional development
CHARACTERISTICS AND FEATURES OF GROWTH PROCESSES OF WOODY PLANTS IN ARID REGIONS
Authors: Huzhahmetova Aliya , Semenyutina Viktoriya , Lazarev Sergey , Coy Maksim , Mel'nik Kristina
Published: August 2021

The aim of the study is to study the features of the growth processes of woody plants in an arid region to determine the prospects of their use in protective afforestation of sparsely wooded regions. The objects of research are trees and shrubs of bioresource collections of the Federal Scientific Centre of Agroecology, Complex Melioration and Protective Afforestation of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The structure of dendrological collections was revealed according to the growth forms of woody plants (6 groups: 1 - trees; 2 - medium shrubs, 3 - tall, 4 - tall shrubs with thorns, 5 - medium ones with thorns, 6 - low). It has been established that active growth processes take place in a favorable spring season (April) with moisture in the soil (up to 15 ... 17% to absolutely dry mass) and average daily air temperatures - + 15.1 ... 17,6 ºC. The groups of woody plants were distinguished according to the duration and intensity of growth processes: I - with short and intense monocyclic shoot growth (25 ... 37 days; Quercus, Acer, Tilia, Crataegus, Sorbus, Fraxinus, Amygdalus nana) and II - with a long period (40 ... 63 days; Betula, Gleditsia, Robinia, Juglans, Catalpa, Sumbucus, Cotoneaster). The ranking of shrubs by 4 classes of growth was carried out using the example of the Rosaceae family. With sufficient moisture in a dry steppe, growth processes occur intensively at the age of up to 10 ... 15 years. The average longevity of tree species in artificial plantations of the region is 40 ... 50 years, in chestnut soils, and its subtypes - 30 ... 40, with additional moisture increases to 60 ... 70 years (Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Pinus sylvestris, Acer platanoides)
A Rare Yet Morbid Complication of Endotracheal Intubation: Tracheal Rupture
Authors: Jesani Shruti , Elkattawy Sherif , Ayad Sarah , El-Feki Iman , Chapla Rani , Patel Henal , Garg Vipin
Published: August 2021

Tracheal tears are an uncommon phenomenon that can occur due to infection, blunt or penetrating trauma or iatrogenic causes secondary to endotracheal intubation or procedures such as bronchoscopy. Post-intubation tracheal laceration is a very rare yet serious complication with high morbidity and mortality rates. Here, we report the case of a 53-year-old woman with a medical history of hypertension who presented with complaints of facial swelling after undergoing arthroscopic debridement of the coracoacromial ligament as well as partial resection of the acromion for impingement of the right shoulder under general anaesthesia. The patient was found to have extensive pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, and a large tracheal tear. We aim to highlight this rare complication of endotracheal intubation, discuss the presenting signs and symptoms, and explore the various management options.
Intoxication by Hand-Sanitizers and other Toxic Alcohols in a Low-Resource Setting: Two Case Reports
Authors: Heldeweg Micah , Kluijver Louisa , Berend Kenrick
Published: August 2021

Toxic alcohol poisoning can be lethal if not identified early and treated appropriately. Toxic alcohol assays are often unavailable in low-resource setting, so clinicians have to infer a diagnosis based on suspicion, repeated evaluation and biochemical course. We report a case of toxic alcohol poisoning concealed by auto-intoxication with in-hospital hand sanitizer. The eventual appearance of a concurrent high anion gap prompted dialysis. In another case, a comatose patient presented with a high osmolal gap and a high anion gap. Incorrect a priori opinions caused us to defer dialysis and the patient died shortly afterwards. Clinicians should be aware that toxic alcohol poisoning can produce a confusing diagnostic picture with an insidious course, and that doctor delay can prove fatal.
Strength training for people with multiple sclerosis and the current recommendations
Authors: Gooch Helen , Hill James , Clegg Andrew
Published: August 2021

Recent guidelines recommend strength and conditioning training for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). This article evaluates and summarises four systematic reviews examining strength training for people with MS and examines if these reviews substantiate these current guidelines.
Buckling under the action of loading by aerodynamic and inertial forces during ground track tests of aviation equipment
Authors: ASTAKHOV Sergey A. , BIRYUKOV Vasiliy I.
Published: August 2021

The article analyses the choice of a rational layout of the test object with a propulsion system (PS). One of the design examples of calculating the longitudinal stability and strength of the structure is given. The purpose of the article is to solve the problem of bending the elastic line of a cantilever tubular rod with a hinged termination during tests of a propulsion system for various aircrafts. On the example, the estimates of the approximate test object, accelerated on the track to a speed of 1200 m/s, are carried out. The aerodynamic loading of the structure of the mobile track installation is considered using the methods of mathematical modelling and the development of an algorithm for the numerical solution of the problem of bending the elastic line of a cantilever tubular rod. The deflection from the forces of external and internal loads of the outer shell of a movable track installation is considered, provided that the diameter of the outer contour is equal to the minimum and it is constant along the entire length.
Features of application of the Lanchester-type mathematical models in stochastic formulation when assessing the realities of air-land battle
Authors: SEMENENKO Oleh , MASHKIN Olexandr , ONOFRIICHUK Petro , PAIUK Oleksandr , CHEREVATYI Taras
Published: August 2021

This study provides a brief overview of the application of possible modifications of Lanchester-type models, namely, the representation of differential equations of such models in stochastic form. The stochastic setting of differential levels is used in Dynamic models if it is necessary to take into account the influence of random fluctuations (in particular, in radio engineering, thermodynamics, population dynamics models, etc.). As for Lanchester-type models, their stochastic appearance would allow considering the influence of random factors and elements of uncertainty, which are present to a certain extent in any combat operations. At the same time, unlike deterministic models, the numerical solution of systems of stochastic differential equations in such models requires the use of special methods, the choice of a specific one may be based on the requirements for the need to obtain an unambiguous approximate solution, or the probability distribution of the desired quantities. The possibility of obtaining different types of solutions is due to a characteristic feature of the developed methods for numerical integration of stochastic differential equations, namely, the existence of weak and strong approximate methods for solving them. For Lanchester equations, as models for predicting the probable course and results of combat operations, it seems appropriate to obtain a solution precisely in the form of parameters for distributions of random variables, which is possible after processing the results of using weak numerical methods. In addition, such methods are considered easier to implement in practice. Of particular note are the issues of estimating the stability of solutions (in the sense of Lyapunov) of stochastic models. While for Lanchester-type models, approximate practical methods for estimating stability can be considered, especially in relation to the simplest, linear statements of basic equations. The study considers an example of using the stochastic Lanchester-type model based on a system of linear inhomogeneous differential equations, with assumptions about the stability of solutions to the stochastic formulation of such equations.
Controlled thermogasocyclic nitriding processes
Authors: BELASHOVA Irina S. , BIBIKOV Peter S. , OREKHOV Alexander A. , STAROVOITOV Eduard I.
Published: August 2021

The existing basic nitriding methods do not exploit many of the potential opportunities. To intensify it and increase its efficiency, this paper considers and proposes a new method of low-temperature nitriding, which makes it possible to optimise the classical process and reduce the consumption of ammonia from 2 to 10 times, reduce the nitriding time by 4-6.5 times with an increase in the thickness of the diffusion layer by 2-6 times without reducing the physical and mechanical properties. During the experiment, gas-cyclic and thermogasocyclic nitriding of armco iron was carried out on an experimental setup, which included a system for monitoring and maintaining the temperature in the working volume, a gas supply system, monitoring the flow rate and degree of ammonia dissociation, cleaning and drying gas, as well as two electromagnetic gas valves controlled from the control panel, allowing the processes to be carried out automatically. As a result, a new method of low-temperature nitriding has been developed – under the conditions of a thermo-gas cycle. This method consists in periodic alternation of saturation cycles during flow nitriding and resorption of the nitrided layer with the maximum possible decrease in the saturating capacity of the atmosphere. The proposed new method of thermogasocyclic nitriding is a new, effective hardening technology that allows to reduce the consumption of saturating gas and emissions into the atmosphere by up to 10 times, the nitriding time by 4-6.5 times, and also to increase the thickness of the diffusion layer by 2-6 times without reducing the physical and mechanical properties. A new technological parameter has been established – the duration of half-cycles, which allows simply and effectively regulating the phase composition and structure of the layer in order to obtain the required physical and mechanical properties.
Bending of an elastoplastic circular sandwich plate on an elastic foundation in a temperature field
Authors: STAROVOITOV Eduard I. , LEONENKO Denis V. , OREKHOV Alexander A.
Published: August 2021

Today, the development of the general theory of quasi-static deformation of three-layer structural elements, including plates, is not yet complete and is being intensively studied. Mathematical models of deformation under complex thermo-force and thermo-irradiation loads are created. The problems of strength, stability, and dynamic behaviour are considered. In strength calculations of three-layer structural elements, it is necessary to take kinematic hypotheses for each layer separately, which complicates the mathematical side of the problem but leads to significant refinement of the stress-strain state. The reaction of an elastic foundation is described by the Winkler model. The use of variational methods allows one to obtain a refined system of three differential equations of equilibrium in internal forces. The thermo-force bending of an elastoplastic circular sandwich plate with a light core connected to an elastic foundation is considered. The polyline normal hypotheses are used to describe the kinematics of a plate package that is not symmetric in thickness. In thin base layers, the Kirchhoff-Love hypotheses are accepted. In a light relatively thick core, the Timoshenko hypothesis is true, while the normal remains rectilinear, but rotates at some additional angle, the radial displacements change linearly in thickness. The differential equations of equilibrium are obtained using the Lagrange variation method. The statement of the boundary value problem in displacements is given in a cylindrical coordinate system. Numerical results for circular metal-polymer sandwich plates are presented.
Production of technological plugs for engine box and oil system using additive technologies
Authors: BYTSENKO Oksana A. , BESSONOVA Natalya A. , DZHAFAROV Emil E. , TISHKOV Victor V. , GNEVASHEV Denis A.
Published: August 2021

Today, technological plugs designed to protect the internal cavities of parts and assembly units are manufactured using such production methods as casting or stamping. At the same time, their subsequent processing is a time-consuming process. Additive technologies can save material, save time and reduce expenses. This study considers the possibility of manufacturing technological plugs for engine box and oil system using additive technologies. The cover plugs were printed using the Fusion Deposition Modeling (FDM) method on a Russian-made ZENIT printer. PLA plastic was chosen for 3D printing. The plug models were optimised, which allowed correcting and reducing the estimated printing time. In particular, some plugs were made assemblable, which helped to avoid a large number of printing supports. The production of technological plugs using additive technology allows reducing the cost of the finished product, the weight of the plugs and the estimated time of their production.
Calculation of strength, rigidity, and stability of the aircraft fuselage frame made of composite materials
Authors: IVANNIKOV Sergei I. , VAHTEROVA Yana A. , UTKIN Yuri A. , SUN Ying
Published: August 2021

Carbon-carbon composite materials (CCCM) are characterized by high heat resistance and thermostability for which they, in most of their physical and mechanical characteristics, can be attributed to the most promising materials. Approximately 81% of all carbon-carbon composite materials are used for the manufacture of brake rotors for aircraft, 18% – in space rocket technology, and only 1% – for all other areas of application. This study discusses calculations of the strength, rigidity, and stability of a frame made of carbon-carbon composite materials. It is known that the strength of CCCM based on high-strength carbon fibers is higher than the strength of a composite material based on high-modulus carbon fibers obtained at various processing temperatures. The stress-strain behaviour (SSB) of the material is carried out. Among the special properties of CCCM are low porosity, low coefficient of thermal expansion, maintaining a stable structure and properties, as well as product dimensions.
Management of bladder exstrophy in an adolescent girl: a case report
Authors: Suastari Ni Made Putri , Margiani Ni Nyoman , Santosa Kadek Budi , Mahiswara Dewa Gde , Sitanggang Firman Parulian , Yudiana I Wayan
Published: August 2021

Bladder exstrophy (BE) is a very rare congenital abnormality, especially in girls. We reported a 17-year-old girl with protruded bladder and urinary incontinence. Her vaginal orifice appeared stenotic and shifted anteriorly. She had an incomplete labia minora, short perineum, and anterior displacement of the anus. The pelvic radiography showed a pubic diastasis with a manta ray sign, and the ultrasonography examination showed a bicornuate uterus. She had undergone a functional reconstruction surgery with cystectomy, ileal conduit, appendectomy, and vaginoplasty along with the advancement of abdominal flap reconstruction with multiple Z-plasty. Functionally, she was able to urinate through the ileal conduit comfortably, had a regular menstrual cycle with minimal pain, had a wider vaginal canal, and had a smooth blood flow. Aesthetically, she had a good lower abdomen appearance, remained dry, and had an odorless urine. In clinical practice, this rare case report can provide additional knowledge and management of the same cases with effective results.
The wave-current interaction in the coastal area
Authors: Komijani Homayoon , Monbaliu Jaak
Published: August 2021

In our investigation of the effect of wind-waves on barotropic mean flow in coastal areas, we compare two methods for calculating wave-induced force. The wave field is simulated by the nearshore spectral wave model SWAN. The wave-induced force (calculated using the radiation stress
gradient and dissipation methods) and the Stokes drift are integrated in the COHERENS circulation model in the depth-averaged mode. The coupled set is validated using well-known academic test cases of planar beach and single-barred beach. Finally, in a two-dimensional test case based on Belgian
coastal waters we compare simulations of mean flow using the two methods of calculating waveinduced force against field data.
 We show clearly that the two methods for calculation of wave-induced force yield very different results even in depth-averaged mode, depending on the angle
of incident wave. Simulation of waveinduced circulation using the wave dissipation approach gives better results than using the radiation stress gradient approach. This is clearly visible for strong wave conditions in which the wind is blowing almost parallel to the shore. Under these conditions,
the white-capping type of wave breaking is the dominant dissipation mechanism; in the radiation stress gradient, the dissipation signal is not visible, because the energy loss in the spectrum is compensated by wind input.
Comprehensive characterization of terahertz generation with the organic crystal BNA
Authors: Tangen Isaac C. , Valdivia-Berroeta Gabriel A. , Heki Larry K. , Zaccardi Zachary B. , Jackson Erika W. , Bahr Charles B. , Ho (Enoch) Sin-Hang , Michaelis David J. , Johnson Jeremy A.
Published: August 2021

We characterize the terahertz (THz) generation of N-benzyl-2-methyl-4-nitroaniline (BNA), with crystals ranging in thickness from 123 to 700 µm. We compare excitation using 800 nm and 1250 to 1500 nm wavelengths. Pumping BNA with 800 nm wavelengths and longer near-infrared wavelengths results in a broad spectrum, producing out to 6 THz using a 100 fs pump, provided the BNA crystal is thin enough.

∼

200

µ

m

or thinner crystals are required to produce a broad spectrum with an 800 nm pump, whereas

∼

300

µ

m

thick crystals are optimal for broadband THz generation using the longer wavelengths. We report the favorable THz generation and optical characteristics of our BNA crystals that make them attractive for broadband, high-field THz generation, and we also compare differences in THz properties relative to BNA characteristics reported in other works.
Generalized optimization framework for pixel super-resolution imaging in digital holography
Authors: Gao Yunhui , Cao Liangcai
Published: August 2021

The imaging quality of in-line digital holography is challenged by the twin-image and aliasing effects because sensors only respond to intensity and pixels are of finite size. As a result, phase retrieval and pixel super-resolution techniques serve as two essential ingredients for high-fidelity and high-resolution holographic imaging. In this work, we combine the two as a unified optimization problem and propose a generalized algorithmic framework for pixel-super-resolved phase retrieval. In particular, we introduce the iterative projection algorithms and gradient descent algorithms for solving this problem. The basic building blocks, namely the projection operator and the Wirtinger gradient, are derived and analyzed. As an example, the Wirtinger gradient descent algorithm for pixel-super-resolved phase retrieval, termed as Wirtinger-PSR, is proposed and compared with the classical error-reduction algorithm. The Wirtinger-PSR algorithm is verified with both simulated and experimental data. The proposed framework generalizes well to various physical settings and helps bridging the gap between empirical studies and theoretical analyses.
Subcarrier-pairing entropy loading for digital subcarrier-multiplexing systems with colored-SNR distributions
Authors: Liu Qiaoya , Fu Mengfan , Jiang Hexun , Ren Huiling , Cai Meng , Zeng Xiaobo , Lun Huazhi , Yi Lilin , Hu Weisheng , Zhuge Qunbi
Published: August 2021

A subcarrier-pairing entropy loading (SubP-EL) scheme with fairly low complexity is proposed for digital subcarrier-multiplexing (SCM) systems with colored signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) distributions. With the constraint of the target entropy, SubP-EL iteratively optimizes the entropy of subcarriers in pair. After convergence, SubP-EL can approach the optimal performance which is evaluated in simulations and experiments by comparison with the brute-force search method. Meanwhile the complexity of SubP-EL is significantly reduced compared with the brute-force search. In particular, in an 8-subcarrier system with five different SNRs, the complexity of SubP-EL is reduced by approximately a factor of 764, 95 and 13 with the entropy granularities of 0.05 bits/2D-symbol, 0.1 bits/2D-symbol and 0.2 bits/2D-symbol, respectively. The performance of SubP-EL is evaluated in simulations and experiments. In the experiments with 345 km fiber transmissions, the average NGMI gain of SubP-EL over the system without entropy loading is 0.0286 for different optical filtering cases.
Generalized phase unwrapping method that avoids jump errors for fringe projection profilometry
Authors: Wu Zhoujie , Guo Wenbo , Lu Lilian , Zhang Qican
Published: August 2021

Jump errors easily occur on the discontinuity of the wrapped phase because of the misalignment between wrapped phase and fringe order in fringe projection profilometry (FPP). In this paper, a phase unwrapping method that avoids jump errors is proposed for FPP. By building two other staggered wrapped phases from the original wrapped phase and dividing each period of fringe order into three parts, the proposed generalized tripartite phase unwrapping (Tri-PU) method can be used to avoid rather than compensatorily correct jump errors. It is suitable for the phase unwrapping method assisted by fringe order with a basic wrapped phase and fringe order, no matter which method is used to recover them. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and generality of the proposed method, which is simple to implement and superior to measure complex objects with sharp edges.
Multi-modality photoacoustic/ultrasound imaging based on a commercial ultrasound platform
Authors: Pang Zhan , Wang Yike , Wang Yongchao , Sun Zezou , Qi Weizhi , Xi Lei
Published: August 2021

Multimodal imaging takes advantage of each modality and has become a recent trend in the field of biomedical imaging. In this Letter, we develop and evaluate an integrated multi-modality imaging system combining photoacoustic computed tomography, optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy, brightness mode, and power Doppler ultrasound imaging on a commercial ultrasonographic platform. Using different imaging modalities enables the hybrid system to recover dense vascular networks and hemodynamic and morphological variations in both superficial and deep tissues. To evaluate the performance and illustrate the advantages of this system, we carried out both phantom and in vivo experiments. In addition to the complementary tissue information offered by different imaging modalities, the use of a commercial ultrasound platform shows the feasibility of the proposed method for future clinical translation.
A novel artificial intelligence-based approach for identification of deoxynucleotide aptamers
Authors: Heredia Frances L. , Roche-Lima Abiel , Parés-Matos Elsie I.
Published: August 2021

The selection of a DNA aptamer through the Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment (SELEX) method involves multiple binding steps, in which a target and a library of randomized DNA sequences are mixed for selection of a single, nucleotide-specific molecule. Usually, 10 to 20 steps are required for SELEX to be completed. Throughout this process it is necessary to discriminate between true DNA aptamers and unspecified DNA-binding sequences. Thus, a novel machine learning-based approach was developed to support and simplify the early steps of the SELEX process, to help discriminate binding between DNA aptamers from those unspecified targets of DNA-binding sequences. An Artificial Intelligence (AI) approach to identify aptamers were implemented based on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML). NLP method (CountVectorizer) was used to extract information from the nucleotide sequences. Four ML algorithms (Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, Gaussian Naïve Bayes, Support Vector Machines) were trained using data from the NLP method along with sequence information. The best performing model was Support Vector Machines because it had the best ability to discriminate between positive and negative classes. In our model, an Accuracy (A) of 0.995, the fraction of samples that the model correctly classified, and an Area Under the Receiving Operating Curve (AUROC) of 0.998, the degree by which a model is capable of distinguishing between classes, were observed. The developed AI approach is useful to identify potential DNA aptamers to reduce the amount of rounds in a SELEX selection. This new approach could be applied in the design of DNA libraries and result in a more efficient and faster process for DNA aptamers to be chosen during SELEX.
Using de novo assembly to identify structural variation of eight complex immune system gene regions
Authors: Zhang Jia-Yuan , Roberts Hannah , Flores David S. C. , Cutler Antony J. , Brown Andrew C. , Whalley Justin P. , Mielczarek Olga , Buck David , Lockstone Helen , Xella Barbara , Oliver Karen , Corton Craig , Betteridge Emma , Bashford-Rogers Rachael , Knight Julian C. , Todd John A. , Band Gavin
Published: August 2021

Driven by the necessity to survive environmental pathogens, the human immune system has evolved exceptional diversity and plasticity, to which several factors contribute including inheritable structural polymorphism of the underlying genes. Characterizing this variation is challenging due to the complexity of these loci, which contain extensive regions of paralogy, segmental duplication and high copy-number repeats, but recent progress in long-read sequencing and optical mapping techniques suggests this problem may now be tractable. Here we assess this by using long-read sequencing platforms from PacBio and Oxford Nanopore, supplemented with short-read sequencing and Bionano optical mapping, to sequence DNA extracted from CD14+ monocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a single European individual identified as HV31. We use this data to build a de novo assembly of eight genomic regions encoding four key components of the immune system, namely the human leukocyte antigen, immunoglobulins, T cell receptors, and killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors. Validation of our assembly using k-mer based and alignment approaches suggests that it has high accuracy, with estimated base-level error rates below 1 in 10 kb, although we identify a small number of remaining structural errors. We use the assembly to identify heterozygous and homozygous structural variation in comparison to GRCh38. Despite analyzing only a single individual, we find multiple large structural variants affecting core genes at all three immunoglobulin regions and at two of the three T cell receptor regions. Several of these variants are not accurately callable using current algorithms, implying that further methodological improvements are needed. Our results demonstrate that assessing haplotype variation in these regions is possible given sufficiently accurate long-read and associated data. Continued reductions in the cost of these technologies will enable application of these methods to larger samples and provide a broader catalogue of germline structural variation at these loci, an important step toward making these regions accessible to large-scale genetic association studies.
Microbial assemblages and methanogenesis pathways impact methane production and foaming in manure deep-pit storages
Authors: Yang Fan , Andersen Daniel S. , Trabue Steven , Kent Angela D. , Pepple Laura M. , Gates Richard S. , Howe Adina S.
Published: August 2021

Foam accumulation in swine manure deep-pits has been linked to explosions and flash fires that pose devastating threats to humans and livestock. It is clear that methane accumulation within these pits is the fuel for the fire; it is not understood what microbial drivers cause the accumulation and stabilization of methane. Here, we conducted a 13-month field study to survey the physical, chemical, and biological changes of pit-manure across 46 farms in Iowa. Our results showed that an increased methane production rate was associated with less digestible feed ingredients, suggesting that diet influences the storage pit’s microbiome. Targeted sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA and archaealmcrAgenes was used to identify microbial communities’ role and influence. We found that microbial communities in foaming and non-foaming manure were significantly different, and that the bacterial communities of foaming manure were more stable than those of non-foaming manure. Foaming manure methanogen communities were enriched with uncharacterized methanogens whose presence strongly correlated with high methane production rates. We also observed strong correlations between feed ration, manure characteristics, and the relative abundance of specific taxa, suggesting that manure foaming is linked to microbial community assemblage driven by efficient free long-chain fatty acid degradation by hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis.
Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs and cats in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, reveals potentially zoonotic species and genotype
Authors: de Oliveira Amanda Gleyce Lima , Sudré Adriana Pittella , Bergamo do Bomfim Teresa Cristina , Santos Helena Lúcia Carneiro
Published: August 2021

Intestinal cryptosporidiosis is a diarrheal disease caused by protists of genusCryptosporidiumthat infect a wide variety of hosts, primarily vertebrates. Due to the close contact between humans and their companion animals, especially dogs and cats, there is concern about the potential for zoonotic transmission of this enteric protozoan parasite by infected animals. This study aimed to perform a microscopic and molecular diagnosis ofCryptosporidiumspp. in fecal samples from domiciled dogs and cats. One hundred and nineteen fecal samples were processed using sugar centrifugal flotation followed by molecular detection ofCryptosporidiumspp. DNA using nested PCR. Subtyping of isolates positive forC.parvumwas performed by sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene (GP60).Cryptosporidiumoocysts were detected in 7.8% (5/64) and 5.4% (3/55) of the fecal samples from dogs and cats, respectively.Cryptosporidium canis(n = 3) andC.parvum(n = 2) were the main species found in dogs, whereasC.felis(n = 3) was prevalent in cats. Subtype IIaA17G2R2 (potentially zoonotic) was identified in samples positive forC.parvum. Despite the low prevalence ofCryptosporidiumobserved in the domiciled dogs and cats, the presence of potentially zoonoticC.parvumin dogs evidences a public health concern. Further research is needed to better understand the epidemiology, source, and potential impacts ofCryptosporidiuminfection in cats and dogs.
Evaluation of a new portable 1-lead digital cardiac monitor (eKuore) compared with standard base-apex electrocardiography in healthy horses
Authors: Vitale Valentina , Vezzosi Tommaso , Tognetti Rosalba , Fraschetti Carlotta , Sgorbini Micaela
Published: August 2021

Recently, the use of smartphone ECG devices has been reported in humans and animals. Nevertheless, as the electrodes of these devices are inseparable, they can create only a precordial reading in veterinary species. Thus, although the smartphone ECG devices are considered valuable as a screening tool for the detection of some common arrhythmias, they are not always a reliable method for the measurement of the duration of the electrical deflections. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of a novel smartphone ECG device, to report the readings obtained recorded simultaneously with a reference ECG system, and to compare the heart rate and duration of cardiac deflections obtained with the two methods. A total of 28 healthy mares of different breeds and age were included in this study and ECG recordings were obtained simultaneously with a reference ECG telemetry system with surface electrodes attached to the skin with alligator clips using a standard base-apex system and a smartphone ECG device with electrodes positioned alternatively with a standard and a modified base apex derivation. All the recordings obtained were considered acceptable for interpretation. An excellent agreement was found between the two methods for the evaluation of heart rate and polarity of cardiac deflections. No differences regarding number, duration and percentage of artifacts were found. This technology could become a valid diagnostic tool in the cardiological assessment of horses, in particular on the field.
Observed birth prevalence of congenital anomalies among live births at a regional facility in KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa
Authors: Saib Muhammad Zubayr , Dhada Barnesh Lalloo , Aldous Colleen , Malherbe Helen Louise
Published: August 2021

Congenital disorders (CDs), defined as abnormalities in structure or function present at birth, are an important contributor to the disease burden in developing countries. The size and extent of the problem in South Africa (SA) are unknown due to the lack of recent, reliable, observed data on CDs. To address this empirical data gap, this study aimed to measure the birth prevalence of congenital anomalies (a sub-set of CDs) and to describe the pattern of these anomalies at a regional hospital in KwaZulu Natal (KZN), SA. A retrospective, observational, descriptive review of congenital anomalies diagnosed within the neonatal service at Edendale Hospital (EDH), KZN was undertaken between January and December 2018. All EDH in-house live births diagnosed and notified with congenital anomalies by discharge were included. Stillbirths, other pregnancy losses and out-born neonates were excluded. Data were actively collected from the birth register, neonatal admission register, and the individual paper-based surveillance tool developed by the National Department of Health. The in-facility birth prevalence rate for congenital anomalies was 15.57 per 1 000 live births. The most observed system was musculoskeletal (32%) followed by circulatory system anomalies (19%). When the observed birth prevalence rates of key congenital anomalies were compared with previously published, modelled South African data, no significant difference was found. This study responds to the paucity of birth prevalence data on CDs overall and offers evidence that obvious, structural CDs (congenital anomalies) need to be addressed in the SA public health system.
Left-right asymmetric and smaller right habenula volume in major depressive disorder on high-resolution 7-T magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Cho Seo-Eun , Park Chan-A , Na Kyoung-Sae , Chung ChiHye , Ma Hyo-Jin , Kang Chang-Ki , Kang Seung-Gul
Published: August 2021

The habenula (Hb) has been hypothesized to play an essential role in major depressive disorder (MDD) as it is considered to be an important node between fronto-limbic areas and midbrain monoaminergic structures based on animal studies. In this study, we aimed to investigate the differences in volume and T1 value of the Hb between patients with MDD and healthy control (HC) subjects. Analysis for the Hb volumes was performed using high-resolution 7-T magnetic resonance (MR) image data from 33 MDD patients and 36 healthy subjects. Two researchers blinded to the clinical data manually delineated the habenular nuclei and Hb volume, and T1 values were calculated based on overlapping voxels. We compared the Hb volume and T1 value between the MDD and HC groups and compared the volume and T1 values between the left and right Hbs in each group. Compared to HC subjects, MDD patients had a smaller right Hb volume; however, there was no significant volume difference in the left Hb between groups. In the MDD group, the right Hb was smaller in volume and lower in T1 value than the left Hb. The present findings suggest a smaller right Hb volume and left-right asymmetry of Hb volume in MDD. Future high-resolution 7-T MR imaging studies with larger sample sizes will be needed to derive a more definitive conclusion.
Examining the potential benefits of the influenza vaccine against SARS-CoV-2: A retrospective cohort analysis of 74,754 patients
Authors: Taghioff Susan M. , Slavin Benjamin R. , Holton Tripp , Singh Devinder
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Recently, several single center studies have suggested a protective effect of the influenza vaccine against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). This study utilizes a continuously updated Electronic Medical Record (EMR) network to assess the possible benefits of influenza vaccination mitigating critical adverse outcomes in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients from 56 healthcare organizations (HCOs).

Methods

The de-identified records of 73,346,583 patients were retrospectively screened. Two cohorts of 37,377 patients, having either received or not received influenza vaccination six months–two weeks prior to SARS-CoV-2 positive diagnosis, were created using Common Procedural Terminology (CPT) and logical observation identifiers names and codes (LOINC) codes. Adverse outcomes within 30, 60, 90, and 120 days of positive SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis were compared between cohorts. Outcomes were assessed with stringent propensity score matching including age, race, ethnicity, gender, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obesity, heart disease, and lifestyle habits such as smoking.

Results

SARS-CoV-2-positive patients who received the influenza vaccine experienced decreased sepsis (p<0.01, Risk Ratio: 1.361–1.450, 95% CI:1.123–1.699, NNT:286) and stroke (p<0.02, RR: 1.451–1.580, 95% CI:1.075–2.034, NNT:625) across all time points. ICU admissions were lower in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients receiving the influenza vaccine at 30, 90, and 120 days (p<0.03, RR: 1.174–1.200, 95% CI:1.003–1.385, NNT:435), while approaching significance at 60 days (p = 0.0509, RR: 1.156, 95% CI:0.999–1.338). Patients who received the influenza vaccine experienced fewer DVTs 60–120 days after positive SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis (p<0.02, RR:1.41–1.530, 95% CI:1.082–2.076, NNT:1000) and experienced fewer emergency department (ED) visits 90–120 days post SARS-CoV-2-positive diagnosis (p<0.01, RR:1.204–1.580, 95% CI: 1.050–1.476, NNT:176).

Conclusion

Our analysis outlines the potential protective effect of influenza vaccination in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients against adverse outcomes within 30, 60, 90, and 120 days of a positive diagnosis. Significant findings favoring influenza vaccination mitigating the risks of sepsis, stroke, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), emergency department (ED) & Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admissions suggest a potential protective effect that could benefit populations without readily available access to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Thus further investigation with future prospective studies is warranted.