RaptGen-Assisted Generation of an RNA/DNA Hybrid Aptamer against SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein.

Optimization of aptamers in length and chemistry is crucial for industrial applications. Here, we developed aptamers against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and achieved optimization with a deep-learning-based algorithm, RaptGen. We conducted a primer-less SELEX against the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike with an RNA/DNA hybrid library, and the resulting sequences were subjected to RaptGen analysis.

Washout Ratio in the Hepatic Vein Measured by Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography to Distinguish Between Inflammatory and Noninflammatory Hepatic Disorders in Dogs.

Background: Perflubutane microbubbles, a second-generation ultrasound contrast agent, are phagocytized by Kupffer cells. This characteristic may be useful to differentiate diffuse hepatic diseases in dogs.

Hypothesis/objectives: To determine whether the washout ratio in the hepatic vein (HV) measured by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) can distinguish between inflammatory and noninflammatory hepatic disorders in dogs.

Assessment of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography of the hepatic vein for detection of hemodynamic changes associated with experimentally induced portal hypertension in dogs.

OBJECTIVE To assess the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) of the hepatic vein for the detection of hemodynamic changes associated with experimentally induced portal hypertension in dogs. ANIMALS 6 healthy Beagles. PROCEDURES A prospective study was conducted.