bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of surface proteins in a clinical Staphylococcus haemolyticus isolate by bacterial surface shaving
Authors: Wolden Runa , Pain Maria , Karlsson Roger , Karlsson Anders , Aarag Fredheim Elizabeth G. , Cavanagh Jorunn Pauline
Published: April 2020

Background

The skin commensal Staphylococcus haemolyticus is an emerging nosocomial pathogen. Despite its clinical relevance, published information about S. haemolyticus virulence factors is scarce. In this study, the adhesive and biofilm forming properties of ten clinical and ten commensal S. haemolyticus strains were examined using standard adhesion and biofilm assays. One of the clinical strains was used to identify expressed surface proteins using bacterial surface shaving. Protein abundance was examined by a comparative analysis between bacterial protein expression after human keratinocyte (HaCaT) colonization and growth in cell culture media supplemented with serum. Relative protein quantification was performed by labeling peptides with tandem mass tags (TMT) prior to Mass Spectrometry analysis. Surface proteins can be used as novel targets for antimicrobial treatment and in diagnostics.

Results

Adherence to fibronectin, collagen and plastic was low in all tested strains, but with significantly higher adhesion to fibronectin (p = 0.041) and collagen (p = 0.001) in the commensal strains. There was a trend towards higher degree of biofilm formation in the clinical strains (p = 0.059).

By using surface shaving, 325 proteins were detected, of which 65 were classified as surface proteins. Analyses showed that the abundance of nineteen (5.8%) proteins were significantly changed following HaCaT colonization. The bacterial Toll/interleukin-1 like (TIRs) domain containing protein (p = 0.04), the transglycosylase SceD (p = 0.01), and the bifunctional autolysin Atl (p = 0.04) showed a 1.4, 1.6- and 1.5-fold increased abundance. The staphylococcal secretory antigen (SsaA) (p = 0.04) was significantly downregulated (− 1.5 fold change) following HaCaT colonization.

Among the 65 surface proteins the elastin binding protein (Ebps), LPXAG and LPXSG domain containing proteins and five LPXTG domain containing proteins were identified; three Sdr-like proteins, the extracellular matrix binding protein Embp and a SasH-like protein.

Conclusions

This study has provided novel knowledge about expression of S. haemolyticus surface proteins after direct contact with eukaryotic cells and in media supplemented with serum. We have identified surface proteins and immune evasive proteins previously only functionally described in other staphylococcal species. The identification of expressed proteins after host-microbe interaction offers a tool for the discovery and design of novel targets for antimicrobial treatment.
Sequential analysis of transcript expression patterns improves survival prediction in multiple cancers
Authors: Mandel Jordan , Avula Raghunandan , Prochownik Edward V.
Published: April 2020

Background

Long-term survival in numerous cancers often correlates with specific whole transcriptome profiles or the expression patterns of smaller numbers of transcripts. In some instances, these are better predictors of survival than are standard classification methods such as clinical stage or hormone receptor status in breast cancer. Here, we have used the method of “t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding” (t-SNE) to show that, collectively, the expression patterns of small numbers of functionally-related transcripts from fifteen cancer pathways correlate with long-term survival in the vast majority of tumor types from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We then ask whether the sequential application of t-SNE using the transcripts from a second pathway improves predictive capability or whether t-SNE can be used to refine the initial predictive power of whole transcriptome profiling.

Methods

RNAseq data from 10,227 tumors in TCGA were previously analyzed using t-SNE-based clustering of 362 transcripts comprising 15 distinct cancer-related pathways. After showing that certain clusters were associated with differential survival, each relevant cluster was re-analyzed by t-SNE with a second pathway’s transcripts. Alternatively, groups with differential survival identified by whole transcriptome profiling were subject to a second, t-SNE-based analysis.

Results

Sequential analyses employing either t-SNE➔t-SNE or whole transcriptome profiling➔t-SNE analyses were in many cases superior to either individual method at predicting long-term survival. We developed a dynamic and intuitive R Shiny web application to explore the t-SNE based transcriptome clustering and survival analysis across all TCGA cancers and all 15 cancer-related pathways in this analysis. This application provides a simple interface to select specific t-SNE clusters and analyze survival predictability using both individual or sequential approaches. The user can recreate the relationships described in this analysis and further explore many different cancer, pathway, and cluster combinations. Non-R users can access the application on the web at https://chpupsom19.shinyapps.io/Survival_Analysis_tsne_umap_TCGA. The application, R scripts performing survival analysis, and t-SNE clustering results of TCGA expression data can be accessed on GitHub enabling users to download and run the application locally with ease (https://github.com/RavulaPitt/Sequential-t-SNE/).

Conclusions

The long-term survival of patients correlated with expression patterns of 362 transcripts from 15 cancer-related pathways. In numerous cases, however, survival could be further improved when the cohorts were re-analyzed using iterative t-SNE clustering or when t-SNE clustering was applied to cohorts initially segregated by whole transcriptome-based hierarchical clustering.
HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins cooperatively alter the expression of Disc Large 1 polarity protein in epithelial cells
Authors: Dizanzo María Paula , Marziali Federico , Brunet Avalos Clarisse , Bugnon Valdano Marina , Leiva Santiago , Cavatorta Ana Laura , Gardiol Daniela
Published: April 2020

Background

Persistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPVs) is associated with the development of cervical cancer. The transforming capacity of these viruses relies on the cooperative action of the E6 and E7 viral oncoproteins. Among the oncogenic activities of E6, the interaction and interference with cell polarity PDZ proteins have been well established. One of the most characterized PDZ targets of HPV E6 is human Disc large 1 (DLG1), a scaffolding protein involved in the control of cell polarity and proliferation. Interestingly, in cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions, alterations in DLG1 expression were observed in association to tumour progression. Moreover, the expression of both HPV E6 and E7 proteins may be responsible for the changes in DLG1 abundance and cell localization observed in the HPV-associated lesions.

Methods

Due to the relevance of DLG1 deregulation in tumour development, we have performed an in-depth investigation of the expression of DLG1 in the presence of the HPV oncoproteins in epithelial cultured cells. The effects of HPV E6 and E7 proteins on DLG1 abundance and subcellular localization were assessed by western blot and confocal fluorescence microscopy, respectively.

Results

We demonstrated that the relative abundance of HPV-18 E6 and DLG1 is a key factor that contributes to defining the expression abundance of both proteins. We also show here that a high expression level of DLG1 may negatively affect HPV-18 E6 nuclear expression. Moreover, the co-expression of HPV-18 E6 and E7 produces a striking effect on DLG1 subcellular localization and a co-distribution in the cytoplasmic region. Interestingly, HPV-18 E7 is also able to increase DLG1 levels, likely by rescuing it from the E6-mediated proteasomal degradation.

Conclusions

In general, the data suggest that HPV-18 E6 and E7 may have opposing activities in regards to the regulation of DLG1 levels and may cooperatively contribute to its subcellular redistribution in the HPV context. These findings constitute a step forward in understanding the differential expression of DLG1 during tumour progression in an HPV-associated model.
Chronic respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function status in Ethiopian agricultural workers: a comparative study
Authors: Woldeamanuel Gashaw Garedew , Mingude Alemu Basazin , Yitbarek Getachew Yideg , Taderegew Mitku Mammo
Published: April 2020

Background

Work-related respiratory disorders are major contributors to the global burden of respiratory diseases. Agricultural workers are exposed to a number of dusts, which may contribute to the development of respiratory disorders. However, the knowledge about the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function status in African farmers was limited. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function status of Ethiopian farmers exposed to farming activities.

Methods

A community based comparative cross sectional study was conducted among 288 agricultural workers (farmers) aged 18 to 65 years and 288 control subjects (non-agricultural workers). Data were collected by interviewer administered structured questionnaires adopted from British Medical Research Council respiratory questionnaire and American Thoracic Society Division of Lung Diseases questionnaire. Moreover, all study participants underwent spirometry.

Results

The prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms was higher in farmers than in controls, with significant difference for cough (20.5% vs. 9.0%,p = 0.001) and phlegm (19.1% vs. 9.0%,p = 0.001). Chronic respiratory symptoms among farmers were significantly associated with duration of agricultural exposure (p = 0.014). The mean values of all spirometric parameters were lower in farmers than in controls with significant difference for FVC, FEV1, FEF25%, FEF50%, FEF25–75%and PEFR. Moreover, the mean values of all spirometric parameters of farmers have found to be decreased with increased duration of workplace exposure. Lung function test results also showed a higher prevalence of obstructive (15.6% vs. 10.8%,p = 0.085) and restrictive type (12.8% vs. 3.1%,p <  0.001) of pulmonary function impairment in farmers than in controls. However, the difference was not significant for obstructive type of impairment.

Conclusion

This study indicated that farmers are at high risk for the development of chronic respiratory symptoms and reduced pulmonary function indices. Hence, a comprehensive occupational safety practices are important to maintain the respiratory health of farmers.
Assessing the preparedness of foundation year 1 (FY1) doctors during the transition from medical school to the foundation training programme
Authors: Michaelides Athena , Mahr Melina , Pydisetty Gaurav , Loyala Jerocin Vishani
Published: April 2020

Background

To assess how ready current FY1 doctors felt when starting their first posting as newly qualified doctors.

Methods

We created an online survey where 45 FY1 doctors in South Yorkshire rated how confident they were across different domains (Induction and Assistantship, Hospital Systems, and Skills) using a scale ranging from 0 (no confidence performing task) to 5 (highly confident).

Results

The ICE system and observations had a mean rating of 3.645 (95% CI 3.446 to 3.844), and 4.425 (95% CI 4.248 to 4.602) with a standard deviation (SD) of 1.10 and 0.83 respectively. The radiological platform, referral system, telephone system, and hospital notes had a mean score of 3.149 (95% CI 2.876 to 3.422), 2.340 (95% CI 2.096 to 2.584), 3.573 (95% CI 3.407 to 3.739) and 4.061 (95% CI 3.931 to 4.191), with a SD of 1.281, 1.153, 0.961 and 0.752 respectively. Patient needs and diagnostic procedures had a mean score of 3.933 (95% CI 3.749 to 4.117) and 4.250 (95% CI 4.140 to 4.360) with a SD of 1.190 and 0.944 respectively. Patient care, prescribing, and therapeutic procedures gave a mean score of 3.634 (95% CI 3.432 to 3.836), 4.130 (95% CI 3.959 to 4.301), 3.386 (95% CI 3.228 to 3.544) with a SD of 1.133, 0.958 and 1.256 respectively. No statistically significant difference in the overall mean score was found between respondents who attended medical schools in Yorkshire, and those who had not.

Conclusion

Overall, confidence differs across different domains and categories. A larger sample size across a wider geographical area would allow us to compare and contrast results across the different regions in the UK.
Re-engineering the Cypriot healthcare service system
Authors: Pallari Elena , Samoutis George , Rudd Anthony
Published: April 2020

Background

The Cypriot healthcare system has undergone a number of major transformations since the induction of the Republic of Cyprus in the European Union over 10 years ago. Currently Cyprus is undergoing a major reform, namely the introduction of a primary care driven national healthcare system. The aim of the study was to assess the existing state of training, support, quality, guidelines and infrastructure towards a better healthcare system in Cyprus.

Methods

This is a mixed-methods study combining statistical data until October 2016 and workshop discussions delivered in Cyprus in November 2015. We used anonymised data provided: (1a) by the Cyprus Medical Association of all registered medical doctors up to October 2016; (1b); by the Ministry of Health (MoH) Health Monitoring Unit up to October 2016; (2) during a workshop organised with representatives from the Royal College of Physicians, the European Commission and the Health Insurance Organization.

Results

The gender ratio of men over women is disproportionate, with over 85% of the medical doctors undertaking their training in Greece, Eastern Europe and neighbouring countries, while the current record does not hold a relevant specialty information for 4 out of 10 doctors. The results show lack of statutory inspection systems, application of revalidation principles or implementation of peer-review clinical services on the island. There are eight proposed recommendations made by the workshop participants towards the transformation of the Cypriot healthcare system and the development of the Cyprus Quality Improvement Institute. These are aimed at addressing gaps in quality of care, adherence to clinical guidelines and implementation of audits, development of doctors’ revalidation and peer-review of clinical services, accreditation of service implementation, establishment of a statutory inspection system as well as the set-up of an incentives program as part of the general healthcare system (GHS) of Cyprus.

Conclusions

Current efforts for the implementation of the new GHS in Cyprus call for adequate training and support of the medical workforce, transparent and safer quality of care provision through the implementation of clinical guidelines and capacity-building infrastructure.
Improving the usability and comprehensiveness of microbial databases
Authors: Loeffler Caitlin , Karlsberg Aaron , Martin Lana S. , Eskin Eleazar , Koslicki David , Mangul Serghei
Published: April 2020

Metagenomics studies leverage genomic reference databases to generate discoveries in basic science and translational research. However, current microbial studies use disparate reference databases that lack consistent standards of specimen inclusion, data preparation, taxon labelling and accessibility, hindering their quality and comprehensiveness, and calling for the establishment of recommendations for reference genome database assembly. Here, we analyze existing fungal and bacterial databases and discuss guidelines for the development of a master reference database that promises to improve the quality and quantity of omics research.
Second and third trimester fetal ultrasound population screening for risks of preterm birth and small-size and large-size for gestational age at birth: a population-based prospective cohort study
Authors: Erkamp Jan S. , Voerman Ellis , Steegers Eric A. P. , Mulders Annemarie G. M. G. J. , Reiss Irwin K. M. , Duijts Liesbeth , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Gaillard Romy
Published: April 2020

Background

Preterm birth, small size for gestational age (SGA) and large size for gestational age (LGA) at birth are major risk factors for neonatal and long-term morbidity and mortality. It is unclear which periods of pregnancy are optimal for ultrasound screening to identify fetuses at risk of preterm birth, SGA or LGA at birth. We aimed to examine whether single or combined second and third trimester ultrasound in addition to maternal characteristics at the start of pregnancy are optimal to detect fetuses at risk for preterm birth, SGA and LGA.

Methods

In a prospective population-based cohort among 7677 pregnant women, we measured second and third trimester estimated fetal weight (EFW), and uterine artery pulsatility and umbilical artery resistance indices as placenta flow measures. Screen positive was considered as EFW or placenta flow measure < 10th or > 90th percentile. Information about maternal age, body mass index, ethnicity, parity, smoking, fetal sex and birth outcomes was available from questionnaires and medical records. Screening performance was assessed via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC) along with sensitivity at different false-positive rates.

Results

Maternal characteristics only and in combination with second trimester EFW had a moderate performance for screening for each adverse birth outcome. Screening performance improved by adding third trimester EFW to the maternal characteristics (AUCs for preterm birth 0.64 (95%CI 0.61 to 0.67); SGA 0.79 (95%CI 0.78 to 0.81); LGA 0.76 (95%CI 0.75; 0.78)). Adding third trimester placenta measures to this model improved only screening for risk of preterm birth (AUC 0.72 (95%CI 0.66 to 0.77) with sensitivity 37% at specificity 90%) and SGA (AUC 0.83 (95%CI 0.81 to 0.86) with sensitivity 55% at specificity 90%). Combining second and third trimester fetal and placental ultrasound did not lead to a better performance as compared to using only third trimester results.

Conclusions

Combining single third trimester fetal and placental ultrasound results with maternal characteristics has the best screening performance for risks of preterm birth, SGA and LGA. As compared to second trimester screening, third trimester screening may double the detection of fetuses at risk of common adverse birth outcomes.
Functional roles and networks of non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Wu Yi-Ying , Kuo Hung-Chih
Published: April 2020

Recent transcriptome analyses have revealed that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are broadly expressed in mammalian cells and abundant in the CNS, with tissue and cell type-specific expression patterns. Moreover, ncRNAs have been found to intricately and dynamically regulate various signaling pathways in neurodegeneration. As such, some antisense transcripts and microRNAs are known to directly affect neurodegeneration in disease contexts. The functions of ncRNAs in pathogenesis are unique for each disorder, as are the pertinent networks of ncRNA/miRNA/mRNA that mediate these functions. Thus, further understanding of ncRNA biogenesis and effects might aid the discovery of diagnostic biomarkers or development of effective therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we review the ncRNAs that have so far been identified in major neurodegenerative disease etiology and the mechanisms that link ncRNAs with disease-specific phenotypes, such as HTT aggregation in HD, α-synuclein in PD, and Aβ plaques and hyperphosphorylated Tau in AD. We also summarize the known lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA networks that participate in neurodegenerative diseases, and we discuss ncRNA-related treatments shown to delay disease onset and prolong lifespan in rodent models.
Current developments on polyhydroxyalkanoates synthesis by using halophiles as a promising cell factory
Authors: Mitra Ruchira , Xu Tong , Xiang Hua , Han Jing
Published: April 2020

Plastic pollution is a severe threat to our environment which necessitates implementation of bioplastics to realize sustainable development for a green world. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) represent one of the potential candidates for these bioplastics. However, a major challenge faced by PHA is the high production cost which limits its commercial application. Halophiles are considered to be a promising cell factory for PHA synthesis due to its several unique characteristics including high salinity requirement preventing microbial contamination, high intracellular osmotic pressure allowing easy cell lysis for PHA recovery, and capability to utilize wide spectrum of low-cost substrates. Optimization of fermentation parameters has made it plausible to achieve large-scale production at low cost by using halophiles. Further deeper insights into halophiles have revealed the existence of diversified and even novel PHA synthetic pathways within different halophilic species that greatly affects PHA type. Thus, precise metabolic engineering of halophiles with the help of advanced tools and strategies have led to more efficient microbial cell factory for PHA production. This review is an endeavour to summarize the various research achievements in these areas which will help the readers to understand the current developments as well as the future efforts in PHA research.
Individual and contextual correlates of mosquito net use among women in Nigeria
Authors: Adedokun Sulaimon T. , Uthman Olalekan A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Malaria has been described as an urgent public health priority with almost half of the world’s population being at risk. Use of insecticide-treated nets is considered one of the effective ways of preventing malaria. Nigeria, which is ranked among the five countries that are responsible for almost half of the global malaria cases, has less than half of its women population using mosquito nets. This study examined the effects of individual and contextual factors on the use of mosquito nets among women of reproductive age in Nigeria.

Methods

This study used data obtained from 2015 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) which involved 6048 women aged 15–49 who possessed at least one mosquito net. Multilevel binary logistic regression models were applied in the multivariable analysis.

Results

About 53% of the women used mosquito nets with more than 60% of uneducated and poor women in this category. The use of mosquito nets was significantly associated with being from poor households, having knowledge about the cause of malaria, having access to malaria messages, possessing knowledge about the efficacy of malaria prevention drugs during pregnancy, having knowledge about the importance of tests to detect malaria, maintaining small household size and living in the most socioeconomically disadvantaged communities and states.

Conclusions

The study revealed that mosquito net use among women in Nigeria is affected by individual and contextual factors. It is important for policy makers to design a mosquito-net-use model which would take individual and contextual factors into consideration.
Identification of a novel LPL nonsense variant and further insights into the complex etiology and expression of hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis
Authors: Li Xiao-Yao , Pu Na , Chen Wei-Wei , Shi Xiao-Lei , Zhang Guo-fu , Ke Lu , Ye Bo , Tong Zhi-Hui , Wang Yu-Hui , Liu George , Chen Jian-Min , Yang Qi , Li Wei-Qin , Li Jie-Shou
Published: April 2020

Background

Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is a leading cause of acute pancreatitis. HTG can be caused by either primary (genetic) or secondary etiological factors, and there is increasing appreciation of the interplay between the two kinds of factors in causing severe HTG.

Objectives

The main aim of this study was to identify the genetic basis of hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) in a Chinese family with three affected members (the proband, his mother and older sister).

Methods

The entire coding and flanking sequences of LPL, APOC2, APOA5, GPIHBP1 and LMF1 genes were analyzed by Sanger sequencing. The newly identified LPL nonsense variant was subjected to functional analysis by means of transfection into HEK-293 T cells followed by Western blot and activity assays. Previously reported pathogenic LPL nonsense variants were collated and compared with respect to genotype and phenotype relationship.

Results

We identified a novel nonsense variant, p.Gln118* (c.351C > T), in the LPL gene, which co-segregated with HTG-AP in the Chinese family. We provided in vitro evidence that this variant resulted in a complete functional loss of the affected LPL allele. We highlighted a role of alcohol abuse in modifying the clinical expression of the disease in the proband. Additionally, our survey of 12 previously reported pathogenic LPL nonsense variants (in 20 carriers) revealed that neither serum triglyceride levels nor occurrence of HTG-AP was distinguishable among the three carrier groups, namely, simple homozygotes, compound heterozygotes and simple heterozygotes.

Conclusions

Our findings, taken together, generated new insights into the complex etiology and expression of HTG-AP.
A multidimensional systems biology analysis of cellular senescence in aging and disease
Authors: Avelar Roberto A. , Ortega Javier Gómez , Tacutu Robi , Tyler Eleanor J. , Bennett Dominic , Binetti Paolo , Budovsky Arie , Chatsirisupachai Kasit , Johnson Emily , Murray Alex , Shields Samuel , Tejada-Martinez Daniela , Thornton Daniel , Fraifeld Vadim E. , Bishop Cleo L. , de Magalhães João Pedro
Published: April 2020

Background

Cellular senescence, a permanent state of replicative arrest in otherwise proliferating cells, is a hallmark of aging and has been linked to aging-related diseases. Many genes play a role in cellular senescence, yet a comprehensive understanding of its pathways is still lacking.

Results

We develop CellAge (http://genomics.senescence.info/cells), a manually curated database of 279 human genes driving cellular senescence, and perform various integrative analyses. Genes inducing cellular senescence tend to be overexpressed with age in human tissues and are significantly overrepresented in anti-longevity and tumor-suppressor genes, while genes inhibiting cellular senescence overlap with pro-longevity and oncogenes. Furthermore, cellular senescence genes are strongly conserved in mammals but not in invertebrates. We also build cellular senescence protein-protein interaction and co-expression networks. Clusters in the networks are enriched for cell cycle and immunological processes. Network topological parameters also reveal novel potential cellular senescence regulators. Using siRNAs, we observe that all 26 candidates tested induce at least one marker of senescence with 13 genes (C9orf40, CDC25A, CDCA4, CKAP2, GTF3C4, HAUS4, IMMT, MCM7, MTHFD2, MYBL2, NEK2, NIPA2, and TCEB3) decreasing cell number, activating p16/p21, and undergoing morphological changes that resemble cellular senescence.

Conclusions

Overall, our work provides a benchmark resource for researchers to study cellular senescence, and our systems biology analyses reveal new insights and gene regulators of cellular senescence.
Fighting against the common enemy of COVID-19: a practice of building a community with a shared future for mankind
Authors:   Members of Steering Committee, Society of Global Health, Chinese Preventive Medicine Association, Qian Xu , Ren Ran , Wang Youfa , Guo Yan , Fang Jing , Wu Zhong-Dao , Liu Pei-Long , Han Tie-Ru
Published: April 2020

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused more than 80 813 confirmed cases in all provinces of China, and 21 110 cases reported in 93 countries of six continents as of 7 March 2020 since middle December 2019. Due to biological nature of the novel coronavirus, named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with faster spreading and unknown transmission pattern, it makes us in a difficulty position to contain the disease transmission globally. To date, we have found it is one of the greatest challenges to human beings in fighting against COVID-19 in the history, because SARS-CoV-2 is different from SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV in terms of biological features and transmissibility, and also found the containment strategies including the non-pharmaceutical public health measures implemented in China are effective and successful. In order to prevent a potential pandemic-level outbreak of COVID-19, we, as a community of shared future for mankind, recommend for all international leaders to support preparedness in low and middle income countries especially, take strong global interventions by using old approaches or new tools, mobilize global resources to equip hospital facilities and supplies to protect noisome infections and to provide personal protective tools such as facemask to general population, and quickly initiate research projects on drug and vaccine development. We also recommend for the international community to develop better coordination, cooperation, and strong solidarity in the joint efforts of fighting against COVID-19 spreading recommended by the joint mission report of the WHO-China experts, against violating the International Health Regulation (WHO, 2005), and against stigmatization, in order to eventually win the battle against our common enemy — COVID-19.
Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B is involved in efficient type I interferon secretion upon viral infection
Authors: Reimer Elisa , Stempel Markus , Chan Baca , Bley Hanna , Brinkmann Melanie M.
Published: April 2020

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B, also known as PTPN1) is a negative regulator of the leptin and insulin signalling pathways. This phosphatase is of great interest as PTP1B-knockout mice are protected against the development of obesity and diabetes. Here, we provide evidence for a novel function of PTP1B that is independent of its phosphatase activity, but requires its localisation to the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum. Upon activation of pattern recognition receptors, macrophages and plasmacytoid dendritic cells from PTP1B-knockout mice secrete lower amounts of type I interferon (IFN) than cells from wild-type mice. In contrast, secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines TNFα and IL6 was unaltered. While PTP1B deficiency did not affect Ifnb1 transcription, type I IFN accumulated in macrophages, suggesting a role for PTP1B in mediating secretion of type I IFN. In summary, we have uncovered that PTP1B positively regulates the type I IFN response by promoting secretion of key antiviral cytokines.
Dichotomy of Place as Utopian Projects Characteristic
Authors: Kalney Marina
Published: April 2020

The article discusses the idea of globalism. It is inevitably associated with the idea of the inevitability of the withering away of the national factor in modern times. The utopian sides of such an idea, related to the opposition of the global post-industrial world as an ideal to those types of communities that preserve the traditional values of national identity, are noted. Utopianism of this kind of dichotomy is associated, first of all, with the opposition of communities instead of exploring their relationships and contradictions
Aspects of Moral Education of Students Through the Prism of Christian Values
Authors: Nesova N.
Published: April 2020

The issue of spiritual and moral education of student youth is very relevant for modern science and practice. The article substantiates the need for spiritual and moral education of the young generation on Christian values. The accumulated experience in introducing the value foundations of Christianity in the system of work of a higher educational institution is highlighted.

The purpose of the study is to establish the psychological patterns and mechanisms of spiritual and moral education of the student’s personality through the initiation and adoption of Christian values. Achieving the goal of the study involved solving the following issues: to carry out a psychological theoretical and methodological analysis of the problem of spiritual and moral education of a person; offer a system of psychological and pedagogical exercises aimed at promoting the spiritual and moral education of the student’s personality; to develop and test a training program for the spiritual formation of the student’s personality.

The author proposed mechanisms for the formation of spiritual values of the student’s personality, developed psychological training for the formation of the spirituality of the student’s personality.
Patriotic Service of the Russian Orthodox Church and Religious Organizations During the Great Patriotic War: Chronicle of the Feat
Authors: Shafazhinskaya Natalya
Published: April 2020

The article is devoted to the theme of Patriotic and social service of Russian Orthodox Church in the tragic and, along with that glorious period of the great Patriotic war of 1941-1945 was marked by important achievements of the Patriotic service of the spiritual hierarchs and leaders of Orthodox culture in the context of the events of the liberation struggle of the Soviet people in the great Patriotic war. It describes some of the fate of ascetics, both in the Soviet Union and abroad, who, in the face of opposition to the Nazi regime, continued to serve, performed Christian feats and made a significant contribution to the approach of the great Victory in the great Patriotic war and World War II. The importance of a thorough study of the activities of religious figures throughout the war period is associated with the need for a more objective assessment of the contribution of the Russian Orthodox Church to the Great Victory. The importance of a thorough study of the activities of religious figures throughout the war period is associated with the need for a more objective assessment of the contribution of the Russian Orthodox Church to the Great Victory. In addition, the Ministry of Orthodox leaders and Christian ascetics should be reflected in the program of Patriotic education of students and schoolchildren as a necessary component of comprehensive humanitarian and spiritual and moral education of modern youth.
Adaptive Submodular Ranking and Routing
Authors: Navidi Fatemeh , Kambadur Prabhanjan , Nagarajan Viswanath
Published: April 2020

Many applications of stochastic optimization involve making sequential decisions until some stopping criterion is satisfied. For example, in medical diagnosis, a doctor needs to perform an adaptive sequence of tests on a patient in order to diagnose a disease. Being adaptive allows the doctor to choose the next test based on the outcomes of prior tests. Given an a priori probability distribution over diseases, the goal is to minimize the expected cost of tests. In “Adaptive Submodular Ranking and Routing,” Navidi, Kambadur, and Nagarajan formulate a general stochastic optimization problem in which the stopping criterion corresponds to covering a submodular function. Such problems arise in many applications, including active learning, robotics, and disaster management. The authors obtain efficient algorithms with best possible performance guarantees. These results also extend to a vehicle-routing setting, in which one needs to plan an adaptive route based on information observed at nodes in the network. The authors also present experimental results on a data set arising in the identification of toxic chemicals, thereby demonstrating the practical applicability of their algorithm.
A Glut Of Faces
Authors: Fiedrich Kristina
Published: April 2020

The face is a bodily surface that visually, historically and politically locates identity. Under the scrutiny of facial recognition and biometric software, the face can take the place of a whole identity, becoming a rigid singular representation. This paper draws connections between the increasing trends in surveillance and biometric technologies, and their manifestation within contemporary art practices. Specifically, I look to artworks that engage traditional portraiture and representations of the face, all the while manipulating expectations of the face-as-portrait. Artworks included in this project are Ursula Johnson’s L’nuweltik (We are Indian), Gillian Wearing’s Self Portrait at Twenty Seven Years Old and Anthony Cerniello’s Danielle. How has the face come to be represented in contemporary portraiture, and might these representations suggest a shifting logic of identity, away from the face? Art as visual expression is considered in relation to surveillance as another outcome of visual culture that highlights a continuing desire to categorize the subject within a social order.
Estão Os Empreendedores E As Pequenas Empresas Preparadas Para As Adversidades Contextuais? Uma Reflexão À Luz Da Pandemia Do Covid-19
Authors: Nassif Vânia Maria Jorge , Corrêa Victor Silva , Rossetto Dennys Eduardo
Published: April 2020

O surto do novo coronavírus, iniciado em dezembro de 2019, na China, nos convoca a refletir sobre importantes temas, parte deles abarcados de maneira indireta nos artigos desta edição. O COVID-19, processo ainda em curso, vem desestabilizando diferentes contextos mundiais. Seus impactos, sendo parte deles ainda não mensurados, refletem na economia, na sociedade, na saúde, no comércio, nos serviços e, como não poderia ser diferente, nos empreendedores e em seus empreendimentos.
A Structure of the Ensemble of Integer Vectors on the Multidimensional Sphere
Authors: Dronov S.V. , Petrikov A.S.
Published: April 2020

This paper studies the mutual arrangements of multidimensional vectors with coordinates that are consecutive natural numbers and the maximum of which coincides with the dimension of the corresponding Euclidean space. The set of all such vectors is called an ensemble of integer vectors. Since the membership of a vector in an ensemble means that its coordinates are some permutation of coordinates of any other vectors of the ensemble, all these vectors have the same length and, when they are placed at the origin, all their ends are lying on a sphere with a radius equal to this length. The vector (1, 2, ..., n) is considered as the main vector of the ensemble. All possible angles that can be formed by the vectors of an integer ensemble are studied. In particular, authors are looking for the number of those that form angles of equal magnitude with the main vector. Obtained results can be used in the construction of the exact distribution of the rank correlation coefficient. In conclusion, the application of this distribution to one of the problems of differential diagnosis in the analysis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary artery thromboembolism is considered.
Game-Based Promotion of Motivation and Attention for Socio-Emotional Training in Autism
Authors: Strickroth Sven , Zoerner Dietmar , Moebert Tobias , Morgiel Anna , Lucke Ulrike
Published: April 2020

Caused by a deviance of their reward system, autistic people show attention deficits for learning content outside their special fields of interest. This can lead to significant problems, especially in formal learning situations. A promising approach to increase attention is the use of game-based learning concepts. The effect of individual playful aspects could be shown in existing learning systems. However, these do not provide consistent game experiences, which may result in a decreasing motivation for training. Therefore, this paper presents requirements as well as a related game concept to integrate the learning content with a playful narrative in order to promote motivation and attention for socio-emotional training.
КРИТИЧНИЙ ДИСКУРС АНАЛІЗ: ЯК ЗАБЕЗПЕЧУВАТИ РЕПРЕЗЕНТАТИВНІСТЬ КОРПУСУ ТЕКСТІВ?
Authors: Кочубейник Ольга
Published: April 2020

Нині в психології спостерігається тенденція до поширення зони застосування якісних методів дослідження, котрі звертаються до вивчення лінгвістичних репрезентацій соціальної реальності (нара­тивний аналіз, дискурсивний аналіз, конверсаційний аналіз та інші). Ці методи є, безсумнівно, ефек­тивним інструментом психологічних досліджень. Однак необхідним є чітке розуміння можливостей і обмежень використання цих методів. Статтю присвячено актуальній проблемі оцінювання репрезен­тативності корпусу текстів, що передбачає включення в нього необхідної і достатньої кількості текстів, яка забезпечить вирішення дослідницьких завдань. Поняття репрезентативності висвіт­люєть­ся під різними кутами зору, після чого робиться висновок, що особистість дослідника, який фор­мує корпус текстів, значною мірою впливає на його репрезентативність. Автор наголошує на немож­ливості складання корпусу текстів, вивільненого від настановлень дослідника, що його формував, і вказує на недоліки застосовуваних тактик контролю такого впливу. На основі теоретичного аналізу розкрито роль міждослідницької тріангуляції в забезпеченні репрезентативності корпусу текстів та підвищенні валідності результатів емпіричного дослідження. Авторка підкреслює, що міждослідницька тріангуляція дає можливість сформулювати концептуальні узагальнення на базі результатів, отри­маних різними експертами. Застосування такої тріангуляції як дослідницької тактики, необхідної для формування  корпусу текстів, відповідає загальним вимогам якісних досліджень. Наприкінці авторка формулює питання, які потребують подальшого дослідження в зазначеному напрямку.
ОСОБИСТІСТЬ ЕФЕКТИВНИХ ВЕДУЧИХ Т-ГРУП В КОНТЕКСТІ СУЧАСНИХ ЕМПІРИЧНИХ ДОСЛІДЖЕНЬ
Authors: Кузікова Світлана Кузікова , Зливков Валерій Зливков , Lukomska Svitlana
Published: April 2020

Дану статтю присвячено аналізу професійно важливих якостей особистості ведучих Т-груп. Встановлено, що, починаючи з 90-х років ХХ століття, Т-групи набувають все більшої популярності в ук­раїнському суспільстві, втім у США та країнах Європи історія тренінгового руху сягає 30-х років ХХ сто­ліття. На початку своєї історії до Т-груп залучалися невеликі неструктуровані колективи менеджерів, які навчалися чесної та відкритої комунікації протягом 3-4 тижнів в ситуаціях «тут і зараз». Нині метою діяльності Т-груп є допомога учасникам в усвідомленні власних емоційних реакцій, розумінні групової взаємодії і відповідної модифікації власної поведінки на основі набутого досвіду. Натепер Т-групи часто ототожнюються із терапевтичними, хоча між ними є суттєві відмінності як відносно групової динаміки, так і стосовно вимог до особистості ведучих. Відповідно, проблема емпіричного дослідження особистісних і професійно важливих якостей ведучих Т-груп не втрачає своєї актуальності. Констатовано, що профе­сійна діяльність ведучих Т-груп вимагає чіткого усвідомлення власних переживань та досвіду, можли­востей впливати на інших людей, гнучкості вживання у різні ролі, помірного рівня автентичного самови­раження, особливо у контексті професійної взаємодії. Визначено основні характеристики ефективного ведучого Т-групи – когнітивна складність, толерантність до невизначеності та позитивне ставлення до себе, інших людей і своєї роботи, саме остання є ключовою для ведення тренінгів – як освітніх, так і терапевтичних. Тобто реляційні особистісні якості (такі, що стосуються міжособистісної взаємодії) професійної компетентності є найважливішими для ведучих Т-груп
Dakwah Islam Melalui Karya Sastra
Authors: Nurhayati Enung , Junaedi Dedi , Sahliah Sahliah
Published: April 2020

The Da'wah through literary works is based on Al-Quran surah Ali Imran verse 110. Da'wah through literary works, in this case, the writer or creator of literary works is an element of da'i. Religious points, both religious themes or messages are elements of the message of preaching. While literary works are the media of his da'wah. Da'wah through literary works will be most successful depending on the way the presentation and packaging it uses. Da'i who are competent to become Islamic writers are needed. This was to meet the challenges when many writers (writers) often turned away from religious literature and preferred to pursue liberalism or genital literature (exploiting sex). Therefore, a cadre of the preachers should be needed for proselytizing professionals through literary works. Need to conduct training based on "Da'wah and Literature". The trainings study theoretically and practically about da'wah through media literary works. The main goal is for the preachers to be both theoretically and practically skilled in preaching through.
После Крыма: исчезающий консенсус
Authors: Белоусов Александр Борисович
Published: April 2020

Цитирование: Белоусов А.Б. (2020) После Крыма: исчезающий консенсус // Мир России. Т. 29. № 2. С. 195–204. DOI: 10.17323/1811-038X-2020-29-2-195-204

Коллективная монография «Выборы на фоне Крыма» вышла в очень удобный для осмысления момент: выборный цикл 2016–2018 годов закончился, а вместе с ним – и патриотический подъем; следующий цикл эпохи транзита начинается на наших глазах. Можно открыть книгу на любой странице и, читая оценки политологов и социологов, время от  времени восклицать «сегодня это не так!» или «а ведь совсем недавно так оно и было!», и для этого будут все основания. «Пересушенная» явка в сентябре 2016 года привела к тому, что протестная мобилизация стала концентрироваться на внеэлекторальных площадках, а административная мобилизация все чаще порождала голосование «с фигой в кармане». Попытка ограничить политическую субъектность города с помощью лепестковой нарезки оказалась не способна повлиять на повышенный интерес протестных лидеров к городской проблематике. Крымский консенсус позволил «Единой России» набрать довольно большой процент на  выборах в Государственную Думу 2016 года, однако не смог предотвратить делигитимацию партии власти, резко усилившуюся после пенсионной реформы; в дальнейшем провалились попытки замаскировать провластных кандидатов с помощью процедур самовыдвижения. Вместо снижения уровня партийной конкурентности Россия получила на выборах 2019 года первый опыт успешной коалиционной сделки. Помимо этого, зачистка политического пространства породила безлидерский протест, а постоянная мобилизация административного электората начала вымывать из процедуры выборов смысловую составляющую. Монография «Выборы на фоне Крыма» дает прекрасную возможность почувствовать, как время ускоряется прямо на наших глазах, и станет лучшим ответом скептикам, которые полагают, что мы живем в стране, где ничего не меняется. Помимо исторической, у книги «Выборы на фоне Крыма» немало других достоинств: она указывает на  точку, с помощью которой намного легче понять, в каком направлении и насколько далеко мы ушли от патриотического подъема 2014 года.
Local Government Expenditures on Care Services vs. Demographic Changes in Poland
Authors: Bobrowska Agnieszka Monika
Published: April 2020

Local governments as the smallest units of territorial self‑government in Poland are responsible for providing care services. The growing number of the elderly can influence the expenditures level connected with ensuring proper care for them, and it may constitute a growing problem for local government, especially for districts with a lower level of socio‑economic development. In recent years, a quite high increase in benefits amount due to care services and specialist care services has been observed. Therefore, a question arises whether a significant dependence can be observed between the share of the elderly in the population and the degree of local governments’ financial burden due to providing care services. The aim of this paper is to indicate voivodeships where local governments bear the biggest burden of providing care services and to verify whether it is connected with their demographic situation. The data which were subject to the static analysis conducted came from public sources: the report of the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy of the Republic of Poland and elaborations of the Central Statistic Office. The situation of particular voivodeships has been defined in the scope of society ageing and burdening local government with care services. Only in the case of half of voivodeships it has been proven that the level (low, medium or high) of burden of the said services corresponds to the same level of the number of the elderly in their population, which can confirm that the amount of care services is connected with a demographic situation of a given voivodeship.