bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A review of computational drug repositioning: strategies, approaches, opportunities, challenges, and directions
Authors: Jarada Tamer N. , Rokne Jon G. , Alhajj Reda 
Published: July 2020

AbstractDrug repositioning is the process of identifying novel therapeutic potentials for existing drugs and discovering therapies for untreated diseases. Drug repositioning, therefore, plays an important role in optimizing the pre-clinical process of developing novel drugs by saving time and cost compared to the traditional de novo drug discovery processes. Since drug repositioning relies on data for existing drugs and diseases the enormous growth of publicly available large-scale biological, biomedical, and electronic health-related data along with the high-performance computing capabilities have accelerated the development of computational drug repositioning approaches. Multidisciplinary researchers and scientists have carried out numerous attempts, with different degrees of efficiency and success, to computationally study the potential of repositioning drugs to identify alternative drug indications. This study reviews recent advancements in the field of computational drug repositioning. First, we highlight different drug repositioning strategies and provide an overview of frequently used resources. Second, we summarize computational approaches that are extensively used in drug repositioning studies. Third, we present different computing and experimental models to validate computational methods. Fourth, we address prospective opportunities, including a few target areas. Finally, we discuss challenges and limitations encountered in computational drug repositioning and conclude with an outline of further research directions.
Using the complement of the cosine to compute trigonometric functions
Authors: Guerrero Martos David , Millán Calderón Alejandro , Juan Chico Jorge , Viejo Cortés Julian , Bellido Díaz Manuel J. , Ruiz-de-Clavijo Vazquez Paulino , Ostúa Arangüena Enrique 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThe computation of the sine and cosine functions is required in devices ranging from application-specific signal processors to general purpose floating-point units. Even in the latter case, the required functionality can be reduced to computing the sine and/or cosine of multiples of a constant angle. The latency of a sine/cosine generator can be reduced by using look-up tables. However, a direct implementation with look-up tables may be unfeasible if the input space is huge. In such a case, look-up tables with a number of entries lower than the size of the input space can be used indirectly. In previously published methods, the reduction in the number of table entries is obtained at the expense of increasing the table width and the computational cost. This paper introduces an alternative technique that makes it possible to reduce the size of the look-up tables as well as the required multiplications. The proposed technique can be used to implement sine/cosine generators of huge input space. It has been used to implement several twiddle factor generators in reconfigurable hardware and has enabled the number of look-up tables to be reduced by between 6 and 26% with respect to previous table-based techniques. Also, these implementations are about 50% faster than those based on Volder’s algorithm.
Gut microbiome composition differences among breeds impact feed efficiency in swine
Authors: Bergamaschi Matteo , Tiezzi Francesco , Howard Jeremy , Huang Yi Jian , Gray Kent A. , Schillebeeckx Constantino , McNulty Nathan P. , Maltecca Christian 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundFeed efficiency is a crucial parameter in swine production, given both its economic and environmental impact. The gut microbiota plays an essential role in nutrient digestibility and is, therefore, likely to affect feed efficiency. This study aimed to characterize feed efficiency, fatness traits, and gut microbiome composition in three major breeds of domesticated swine and investigate a possible link between feed efficiency and gut microbiota composition.ResultsAverage daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), residual feed intake (RFI), backfat, loin depth, and intramuscular fat of 615 pigs belonging to the Duroc (DR), Landrace (LR), and Large White (LW) breeds were measured. Gut microbiota composition was characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Orthogonal contrasts between paternal line (DR) and maternal lines (LR+LW) and between the two maternal lines (LR versus LW) were performed. Average daily feed intake and ADG were statistically different with DR having lower ADFI and ADG compared to LR and LW. Landrace and LW had a similar ADG and RFI, with higher ADFI and FCR for LW. Alpha diversity was higher in the fecal microbial communities of LR pigs than in those of DR and LW pigs for all time points considered. Duroc communities had significantly higher proportional representation of theCatenibacteriumandClostridiumgenera compared to LR and LW, while LR pigs had significantly higher proportions ofBacteroidesthan LW for all time points considered. Amplicon sequence variants from multiple genera (includingAnaerovibrio,Bacteroides,Blautia,Clostridium,Dorea,Eubacterium,Faecalibacterium,Lactobacillus,Oscillibacter, andRuminococcus) were found to be significantly associated with feed efficiency, regardless of the time point considered.ConclusionsIn this study, we characterized differences in the composition of the fecal microbiota of three commercially relevant breeds of swine, both over time and between breeds. Correlations between different microbiome compositions and feed efficiency were established. This suggests that the microbial community may contribute to shaping host productive parameters. Moreover, our study provides important insights into how the intestinal microbial community might influence host energy harvesting capacity. A deeper understanding of this process may allow us to modulate the gut microbiome in order to raise more efficient animals.
Saliva as a diagnostic specimen for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in suspected patients: a scoping review
Authors: Fakheran Omid , Dehghannejad Mandana , Khademi Abbasali 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
From the begging months of 2020 a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2, also called 2019-nCoV) caused a devastating global outbreak. At present, the diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is made through a nasopharyngeal swab based on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique. However, some recent studies suggested the possible role of oral fluids and saliva in the detection of SARS-CoV-2. The purpose of this scoping review is evaluating the available evidence regarding the efficacy of saliva as a diagnostic specimen in COVID-19 patients.

Methods
A systematic literature review of six databases (PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials [CENTRAL], Science Direct, Web of Science and Google scholar) was carried out without any restrictions on date of publication to identify the reliability of saliva as a diagnostic specimen for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in suspected patients.

Results
Nine eligible articles were included in this review based on our described method. All the included studies are based on clinical surveys among patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most of studies included in this review, reported that there is no statistically significant difference between nasopharyngeal or sputum specimens and saliva samples regarding viral load.

Conclusions
Despite limitations of this study, the findings of this review suggest that the use of self-collected saliva as a non-invasive specimen has proper accuracy and reliability regarding detection of SARS-CoV-2 based on RT-PCR technique.
On the diet of Tycho Brahe and his wife: did they consume fish from stagnant pools?
Authors: van der Plicht Johannes , Kaupová Sylva Drtikolová , Velemínský Petr , Smolík Jiří , Kučera Jan , Kameník Jan , Havránek Vladimír , Brůžek Jaroslav , Vellev Jens , Rasmussen Kaare Lund 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Radiocarbon dating has been performed on cortical femoral tissue samples from Tycho Brahe (1546–1601) and his wife Kirsten Barbara Jørgensdatter (1549–1604). No discernible reservoir effect has been observed in either skeleton. This combined with unusually high δ15N values and seemingly terrestrial δ13C values, makes us suggest that a large fraction of their protein intake came from freshwater fish raised in stagnant pools.
Precipitation is the dominant driver for bird species richness, phylogenetic and functional structure in university campuses in northern China
Authors: Liang Chenxia , Liu Jun , Pan Bin , Wang Na , Yang Jie , Yang Guisheng , Feng Gang 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Although urbanization is threatening biodiversity worldwide, the increasing green urban spaces could harbor relatively high biodiversity. Therefore, how to maintain the biodiversity in urban ecosystem is crucial for sustainable urban planning and management, especially in arid and semiarid regions with relatively fragile environment and low biodiversity. Here, for the first time we linked species richness, phylogenetic and functional structure of bird assemblages in university campuses in northern China with plant species richness, glacial-interglacial climate change, contemporary climate, and anthropogenic factors to compare their relative roles in shaping urban bird diversity.

Methods
Bird surveys were conducted in 20 university campuses across Inner Mongolia, China. Ordinary least squares models and simultaneous autoregressive models were used to assess the relationships between bird species richness, phylogenetic and functional structure with environmental factors. Structural equation models were used to capture the direct and indirect effects of these factors on the three components of bird diversity.

Results
Single-variable simultaneous autoregressive models showed that mean annual precipitation was consistently a significant driver for bird species richness, phylogenetic and functional structure. Meanwhile, mean annual temperature and plant species richness were also significant predictors for bird species richness.

Conclusions
This study suggests that campuses with warmer and wetter climate as well as more woody plant species could harbor more bird species. In addition, wetter campuses tended to sustain over-dispersed phylogenetic and functional structure. Our findings emphasize the dominant effect of precipitation on bird diversity distribution in this arid and semiarid region, even in the urban ecosystem.
Successful treatment of enterocutaneous fistula after esophagectomy with scopolamine ointment and negative pressure wound therapy: a case report
Authors: Suzuki Shigemasa , Aihara Ryusuke , Ooki Takashi , Matsumura Naoki , Wada Wataru , Mogi Akira , Hosouchi Yasuo , Nishida Yasuji , Sakai Makoto , Sohda Makoto , Saeki Hiroshi , Shirabe Ken 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Despite improved surgical techniques and perioperative management, anastomotic leakage (AL) after esophageal cancer surgery remains a potential complication. In most cases, spontaneous healing upon proper drainage is observed, but sometimes, AL results in intractable enterocutaneous fistulas. We here report a case of intractable enterocutaneous fistula caused by post-esophagectomy AL and successfully treated by scopolamine ointment and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT).

Case presentation
A 77-year-old man underwent thoracoscopic subtotal esophagectomy with 3-field lymph node dissection, followed by gastric tube reconstruction through the posterior mediastinal route. On the 6th postoperative day, AL was identified, forming an enterocutaneous fistula. Initially, conservative treatment was performed, but the fistula failed to close. We hypothesized that the substantial amount of exudate might be hampering fistula closure. Scopolamine ointment was used to reduce the amount of fluid. NPWT was also initiated to promote wound healing. Approximately 3 weeks after the beginning of the treatment, the fistula closed; oral intake became possible, and the patient was discharged from the hospital without any symptoms.

Conclusions
The combination of scopolamine ointment and NPWT may be regarded as one effective treatment option for intractable enterocutaneous fistula due to AL after esophagectomy.
Total thoracic herniation of the liver: a case of delayed right-sided diaphragmatic hernia after blunt trauma
Authors: Kesavaramanujam Satish , Morell Michael C. , Harigovind Dhanush , Bhimmanapalli Chandana , Cassaro Sebastiano 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Traumatic diaphragmatic injuries (TDIs) are relatively uncommon and require surgical repair to prevent or address herniation. Three quarters of TDIs are due to blunt thoraco-abdominal trauma. In blunt TDIs, variable clinical presentations and frequent concurrent life-threatening injuries may hinder early recognition and treatment, leading to diagnostic delays, which may result in technically more challenging repairs. Right-sided blunt TDIs are much less common than left-sided ones, are difficult to visualize on imaging studies, are more frequently associated with other potentially lethal injuries, and tend to present more subtly, so that diagnostic delays are more likely.

Case presentation
We report the diagnosis and elective repair of a large right-sided traumatic diaphragmatic hernia resulting from a distant blunt abdominal injury, describing the techniques used to address the challenges presented by the chronic intrathoracic displacement of the entire liver with the gallbladder, as well as the right side of the colon and part of the duodenum.

Conclusions
Early diagnosis of right-sided TDIs can be especially elusive. The management of delayed diaphragmatic hernias can be challenging, but with meticulous planning and a flexible surgical approach, a repair can be achieved resulting in good recovery and low risk of recurrence.
Current imaging techniques for evaluation of fistula in ano: a review
Authors: Sharma Ashish , Yadav Priyanka , Sahu Manoranjan , Verma Ashish 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Fistula in ano is one of the common anorectal disorders which have a tendency to recur specially in complex cases usually due to missed or undetected sepsis at the time of examination or surgery. A correct identification of the primary source of crypt infection along with a complete understanding of the anatomical course of primary and secondary tracks and abscesses is a prerequisite for the successful management of fistula. Preoperative evaluation of fistula in ano using radio-imaging techniques provides a handy insight of fistula anatomy and helps in planning the appropriate treatment strategy. The objective of this article is to review the role of different radio-imaging techniques in the diagnosis and evaluation of fistula in ano along with their advantages and disadvantages over one another.

Main text
A comprehensive literature review was performed searching through the electronic databases as well as the standard textbooks of colorectal surgery. X-rays (plain radiographs and contrast fistulography), computed tomography (CT) scanning, anal endosonography, and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are the modalities used for preoperative imaging of fistula in ano. Due to low accuracy, X-ray fistulography is not used now for fistula imaging. CT fistulography can be more accurate in cases associated with acute inflammations and abscesses and the fistulas related with inflammatory bowel disease. Anal endosonography and MRI are two of the mostly used and reliable imaging techniques for fistula in ano. Though the use of a 3D technology has improved the accuracy of anal endosonography, MRI is the preferred choice by many. However, various reports have depicted comparable accuracies for both MRI and anal endosonography showing both to be equally sensitive but MRI to be more specific. 3D endoanal ultrasound, on the other hand, is more rapid and can also be used intraoperatively to provide live imaging during surgical exploration.

Conclusion
Complex and recurrent fistula cases should undergo a preoperative imaging to reduce the chances of recurrence. MRI is recommended as the imaging modality of choice for such cases. 3D anal endosonography may however be a good option over MRI owing to its rapidity, availability, and potential of intraoperative assistance during surgery.
Gallstones in Egyptian infants and children: risk factors, complications and outcome: a single center experience
Authors: Enayet A. , Afifi R. A. , Mogahed E. A. , El-Raziky M. S. , Abdellatif M. A. K. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
The widespread use of abdominal ultrasonography in children documented increased detection rate of gallstones. The aim of this study was to assess the possible risk factors of gallstones and to detect the complication rate and outcome of the disease in Egyptian infants and children from a hepatologist perspective. This prospective study included 35 cases, with ultrasound-detected gallstones, who presented to the Pediatric Hepatology Unit from July 2015 to October 2017. All patients were initially evaluated by full history, general and abdominal examination, laboratory assessment, and ultrasound findings to detect possible risk factors of gallstones. Management approach was individualized for each patient according to his/her condition, and the patients were followed up at 3 months interval.

Results
The patients’ ages ranged from 3.5 months up to 17 years. The median age of gallstone detection was 2 years. Gallstones were symptomatic in 62.9% with abdominal pain in 51.4%. Complications in the form of choledocholithiasis were detected in 7 patients (20%). Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was done for 7 patients while conservative management was applied for 24 patients. Complete resolution occurred in 8.3% and partial resolution in 33.3%. Chronic hemolytic anemia was the most commonly identified risk factor for gallstones. Patients needed surgical intervention had significant higher serum cholesterol and LDL levels (P = 0.006 and P = 0.002 respectively).

Conclusion
Risk factors for gallstones could be identified in most of pediatric cases. Symptomatic presentation is common among the pediatric population. Conservative management is recommended for asymptomatic cases of gallstones in children. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe and recommended procedure for complicated and symptomatic cases of gallstones.
Study of serum and synovial fluid Dickkopf-1 levels in patients with primary osteoarthritis of the knee joint in correlation with disease activity and severity
Authors: Ibrahim Noha Hosni , Abdel-Monem Samia Mohammed , Elbarashy Abdel-Wahab S. E. , Elhussieny Heba A. W. , Elsayed Rasha A. H. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a typical complex degenerative articular ailment that shows focal cartilage loss, new bone formation with involvement of entire joint tissues. Dkk-1 assumes a job in controlling the pattern of bone repair and regeneration in both OA and RA. This study aimed to determine serum and synovial fluid levels of Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1) in patients with primary OA of the knee joint and study their correlations with disease activity and severity. This study included 45 patients, 30 of them were diagnosed as primary knee OA. Fifteen rheumatoid arthritis patients as well as 15 healthy subjects were enrolled in the study as control groups, serum and synovial levels of Dkk-1 were estimated utilizing the ELISA technique.

Results
Serum levels of Dkk-1 were significantly higher in OA patients than healthy subjects (p < 0.001), although it was even significantly higher in RA patients than OA patients (p < 0.001). There was a highly significant decrease in the median synovial level of Dkk-1 in OA patients compared to the RA control group (p < 0.001). There was a highly statistically significant inverse correlation between circulating as well as synovial fluid Dkk-1 levels and radiological disease grading in knee OA (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant decrease in serum levels of Dkk-1 in patients with severe OA (grade 3, 4) compared to those with mild OA (Grade 2) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion
Dkk-1 is an interesting marker that is related to articular disease .It could play an important role in decelerating the degenerative process of OA and can reflects radiographic severity of the disease as well.
China’s corridor bridges: heritage buildings over water
Authors: Knapp Ronald G. , Miller Terry E. , Liu Jie 
Published: July 2020

AbstractEssentially unknown in the rest of the world and only recently appreciated in China, the globally significant 3000+ ‘corridor bridges’ (langqiao) in China far outnumber the better-known ‘covered bridges’ found in North America and Europe. Rivaling or exceeding those in the West in number, age, complexity, and architectural ambition, some of China’s outstanding timber langqiao in the mountains of Fujian and Zhejiang provinces are on the cusp of being inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites. Throughout south and central China today there is moreover a resurgence of new timber langqiao being erected using traditional carpentry alongside the unprecedented construction of modern marvels of steel and concrete.Archaeological evidence in 2001 uncovered China’s earliest ‘corridor bridge’—thus the oldest known covered bridge in the world—with a length of 42 m dating to the Han dynasty 2000 years ago. The Rulong Bridge, which dates to 1625 and is documented as the oldest standing woven arch-beam langqiao, can be visited today in Qingyuan county, southern Zhejiang. Even older langqiao with parallel log beams as the substructure have come to light in neighboring Fujian province, most notably the Zhiqing Bridge in a rural area of Jian’ou city that dates to 1490.China’s bridges, whether with a corridor atop or without, have traditionally not been included under the umbrella of ‘vernacular architecture’ even as they usually were created by local craftspeople employing the same approaches and practices for dwellings and temples. Just as with these better researched structures, langqiao must be studied not only from the perspective of architecture, but also anthropology, geography, history, and sociology, among other disciplines.Rather than being abandoned as artifacts from the past, China’s langqiao today represent a living tradition that continues serving rural communities as places of passage, spaces for leisure and marketing, sites for worship, and increasingly destinations for tourists in search of nostalgic connections with China’s past.The research presented in this article draws heavily from the authors’ China’s Covered Bridges: Architecture over Water, a comprehensive book published in late 2019 in Shanghai and London by Shanghai Jiao Tong University Press that will be distributed in 2020 by the University of Hawai’i Press. Despite the scope of this book, the complexity of China’s langqiao remains understudied.