bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Privacy-preserving breast cancer recurrence prediction based on homomorphic encryption and secure two party computation
Authors: Son Yongha , Han Kyoohyung , Lee Yong Seok , Yu Jonghan , Im Young-Hyuck , Shin Soo-Yong
Published: December 2021

Protecting patients’ privacy is one of the most important tasks when developing medical artificial intelligence models since medical data is the most sensitive personal data. To overcome this privacy protection issue, diverse privacy-preserving methods have been proposed. We proposed a novel method for privacy-preserving Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) inference model using privacy enhancing technologies including homomorphic encryption and secure two party computation. The proposed privacy-preserving GRU inference model validated on breast cancer recurrence prediction with 13,117 patients’ medical data. Our method gives reliable prediction result (0.893 accuracy) compared to the normal GRU model (0.895 accuracy). Unlike other previous works, the experiment on real breast cancer data yields almost identical results for privacy-preserving and conventional cases. We also implement our algorithm to shows the realistic end-to-end encrypted breast cancer recurrence prediction.
Non-coding RNA regulates phage sensitivity in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Tian Yuan , Wu Liting , Zhu Mengya , Yang Zhenquan , Pilar García , Bao Hongduo , Zhou Yan , Wang Ran , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2021

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have gained increasing attention as their diverse roles in virulence and environmental stress in Listeria monocytogenes have become clearer. The ncRNA rliB is an atypical member of the CRISPR family, conserved at the same genomic locus in all analyzed L. monocytogenes genomes and also in other Listeria species. In this study, rliB defective mutants (Lm3-22-ΔrliB) were constructed by homologous recombination. The growth cycle of Lm3-22-ΔrliB mutants was slower than that of wild-type Lm3-22. The sensitivity of Lm3-22-ΔrliB to the Listeria phage vB-LmoM-SH3-3 was significantly increased, and the efficiency of plaque formation was enhanced by 128 fold. Compared with wild type, the adhesion and invasion of Lm3-22-ΔrliB decreased significantly (9.3% and 1.33%, respectively). After 4 hours of infection, the proliferation of Lm3-22-ΔrliB in RAW264.7 cells also decreased significantly. Transcription level of invasion-related surface proteins showed that the internalin genes lmo0610 and lm0514, and the peptidoglycan binding protein gene lmo1799 in Lm3-22-ΔrliB were significantly increased. In addition, after interaction with phage, the transcription levels of inlA, lmo0610, lmo1799, lmo2085, and lmo0514 in Lm3-22-ΔrliB cells were significantly upregulated, while inlB was downregulated, compared with Lm3-22 control group with phage treatment. Therefore, rliB deletion effectively regulated the interaction between Listeria and phage, weaken its invasion ability, and provided a new theoretical basis for biocontrol of phage.
Exploration of physiological and biochemical processes of canola with exogenously applied fertilizers and plant growth regulators under drought stress
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Mahran , Farhat Fozia , Siddiqui Mohammad Aquil , Yasmeen Shafquat , Khan Muhammad Tahir , Sial Mahboob Ali , Khan Imtiaz Ahmad
Published: December 2021

Environmental stresses may alter the nutritional profile and economic value of crops. Chemical fertilizers and phytohormones are major sources which can enhance the canola production under stressful conditions. Physio-biochemical responses of canola altered remarkably with the use of nitrogen/phosphorus/potassium (N/P/K) fertilizers and plant growth regulators (PGRs) under drought stress. The major aim of current study was to evaluate nutritional quality and physio-biochemical modulation in canola (Brassica napusL.) from early growth to seed stage with NPK and PGRs in different water regimes. To monitor biochemical and physiological processes in canola, two season field experiment was conducted as spilt plot under randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four treatments (Control, Chemical fertilizers [N (90 kg/ha), P and K (45 kg ha-1)], PGRs; indole acetic acid (IAA) 15g ha-1, gibberellic acid (GA3) 15g ha-1and the combination of NPK and PGRs] under different irrigations regimes (60, 100, 120, 150 mm evaporations). Water stress enhanced peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), soluble sugar, malondialdehyde (MDA), proline contents as well as leaf temperature while substantially reduced leaf water contents (21%), stomatal conductance (50%), chlorophyll contents (10–67%), membrane stability index (24%) and grain yield (30%) of canola. However, the combined application of NPK and PGR further increased the enzymatic antioxidant pool, soluble sugars, along with recovery of leaf water contents, chlorophyll contents, stomatal conductance and membrane stability index but decreased the proline contents and leaf temperature at different rate of evaporation. There is positive interaction of applied elicitors to the water stress in canola except leaf area. The outcomes depicted that the combination of NPK with PGRs improved the various morpho-physiological as well as biochemical parameters and reduced the pressure of chemical fertilizers cost about 60%. It had also reduced the deleterious effect of water limitation on the physiology and grain yield and oil contents of canola in field experiments.
Mean square displacement for a discrete centroid model of cell motion
Authors: Rosen Mary Ellen , Grant Christopher P. , Dallon J. C.
Published: December 2021

The mean square displacement (MSD) is an important statistical measure on a stochastic process or a trajectory. In this paper we find an approximation to the mean square displacement for a model of cell motion. The model is a discrete-time jump process which approximates a force-based model for cell motion. In cell motion, the mean square displacement not only gives a measure of overall drift, but it is also an indicator of mode of transport. The key to finding the approximation is to find the mean square displacement for a subset of the state space and use it as an approximation for the entire state space. We give some intuition as to why this is an unexpectedly good approximation. A lower bound and upper bound for the mean square displacement are also given. We show that, although the upper bound is far from the computed mean square displacement, in rare cases the large displacements are approached.
Prevalence and factors associated with chronic use of levothyroxine: A cohort study
Authors: Janett-Pellegri Camilla , Wildisen Lea , Feller Martin , Del Giovane Cinzia , Moutzouri Elisavet , Grolimund Oliver , Walter Patrick , Waeber Gérard , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Vollenweider Peter , Rodondi Nicolas
Published: December 2021

Importance

Levothyroxine prescriptions are rising worldwide. However, there are few data on factors associated with chronic use.

Objective

To assess the prevalence of chronic levothyroxine use, its rank among other chronic drugs and factors associated with chronic use. To assess the proportion of users outside the therapeutic range of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Design

Cohort study (CoLaus|PsyCoLaus) with recruitment from 2003 to 2006. Follow-ups occurred 5 and 10 years after baseline.

Participants

A random sample of Lausanne (Switzerland) inhabitants aged 35–75 years.

Main outcomes

We evaluated the prevalence of chronic levothyroxine use and we then ranked it among the other most used chronic drugs. The ranking was compared to data from health insurance across the country. We assessed the association between each factor and chronic levothyroxine use in multivariable logistic regression models. The proportion of chronic levothyroxine users outside the usual TSH therapeutic range was assessed.

Results

4,334 participants were included in the analysis (mean±SD age 62.8±10.4 years, 54.9% women). 166 (3.8%) participants were chronic levothyroxine users. Levothyroxine was the second most prescribed chronic drug after aspirin in the cohort (8.2%) and the third most prescribed when using Swiss-wide insurance data. In multivariable analysis, chronic levothyroxine use was associated with increasing age [odds ratio 1.03, 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.05 per 1-year increase]; female sex [11.87 (5.24–26.89)]; BMI [1.06 (1.02–1.09) per 1-kg/m2 increase]; number of concomitant drugs [1.22 (1.16–1.29) per 1-drug increase]; and family history of thyroid pathologies [2.18 (1.37–3.48)]. Among chronic levothyroxine users with thyroid hormones assessment (n = 157), 42 (27%) were outside the TSH therapeutic range (17% overtreated and 10% undertreated).

Conclusions

In this population-based study, levothyroxine ranked second among chronic drugs. Age, female sex, BMI, number of drugs and family history of thyroid pathologies were associated with chronic levothyroxine use. More than one in four chronic users were over- or undertreated.
Association between tinnitus and depressive symptoms in the South Korean population
Authors: Park Minah , Kang Soo Hyun , Nari Fatima , Park Eun-Cheol , Jang Sung-In
Published: December 2021

In this study, we aimed to examine the association between tinnitus and depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly South Korean population. The participants were selected from among those who participated in the 2014, 2016, and 2018 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. The incidence and severity of tinnitus was assessed using a self-reported questionnaire, while depressive symptoms were evaluated using self-reported Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Multiple logistic regression was performed to examine the association between tinnitus and depressive symptoms. Overall, 10 979 (4821 men and 6158 women) participants were enrolled in the study. Regardless of sex, individuals who reported having tinnitus were more likely to have depressive symptoms than those without tinnitus (men: odds ratio 1.53, 95% confidence interval 1.01–2.32; women: odds ratio 1.78, 95% confidence interval 1.35–2.35). In severe cases of tinnitus, women were more likely to have depressive symptoms (odds ratio 7.18, 95% confidence interval 3.71–13.87) compared to men. This study revealed a significant association between tinnitus and depressive symptoms among the middle-aged and elderly South Korean population.
Is intuition allied with jumping to conclusions in decision-making? An intensive longitudinal study in patients with delusions and in non-clinical individuals
Authors: Zander-Schellenberg Thea , Kuhn Sarah A. K. , Möller Julian , Meyer Andrea H. , Huber Christian , Lieb Roselind , Andreou Christina
Published: December 2021

Research suggests that a jumping-to-conclusions (JTC) bias, excessive intuition, and reduced analysis in information processing may favor suboptimal decision-making, both in non-clinical and mentally disordered individuals. The temporal relationship between processing modes and JTC bias, however, remains unexplored. Therefore, using an experience sampling methodology (ESM) approach, this study examines the temporal associations between intuitive/analytical information processing, JTC bias, and delusions in non-clinical individuals and patients with schizophrenia. Specifically, we examine whether a high use of intuitive and/or a low use of analytical processing predicts subsequent JTC bias and paranoid conviction. In a smartphone-based ESM study, participants will be prompted four times per day over three consecutive days to answer questionnaires designed to measure JTC bias, paranoid conviction, and preceding everyday-life intuition/analysis. Our hierarchical data will be analyzed using multilevel modelling for hypothesis testing. Results will further elucidate the role of aberrant human reasoning, particularly intuition, in (non-)clinical delusions and delusion-like experiences, and also inform general information processing models.
Computed tomography radiomics for the prediction of thymic epithelial tumor histology, TNM stage and myasthenia gravis
Authors: Blüthgen Christian , Patella Miriam , Euler André , Baessler Bettina , Martini Katharina , von Spiczak Jochen , Schneiter Didier , Opitz Isabelle , Frauenfelder Thomas
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To evaluate CT-derived radiomics for machine learning-based classification of thymic epithelial tumor (TET) stage (TNM classification), histology (WHO classification) and the presence of myasthenia gravis (MG).

Methods

Patients with histologically confirmed TET in the years 2000–2018 were retrospectively included, excluding patients with incompatible imaging or other tumors. CT scans were reformatted uniformly, gray values were normalized and discretized. Tumors were segmented manually; 15 scans were re-segmented after 2 weeks by two readers. 1316 radiomic features were calculated (pyRadiomics). Features with low intra-/inter-reader agreement (ICC<0.75) were excluded. Repeated nested cross-validation was used for feature selection (Boruta algorithm), model training, and evaluation (out-of-fold predictions). Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) values were calculated to assess feature importance.

Results

105 patients undergoing surgery for TET were identified. After applying exclusion criteria, 62 patients (28 female; mean age, 57±14 years; range, 22–82 years) with 34 low-risk TET (LRT; WHO types A/AB/B1), 28 high-risk TET (HRT; WHO B2/B3/C) in early stage (49, TNM stage I-II) or advanced stage (13, TNM III-IV) were included. 14(23%) of the patients had MG. 334(25%) features were excluded after intra-/inter-reader analysis. Discriminatory performance of the random forest classifiers was good for histology(AUC, 87.6%; 95% confidence interval, 76.3–94.3) and TNM stage(AUC, 83.8%; 95%CI, 66.9–93.4) but poor for the prediction of MG (AUC, 63.9%; 95%CI, 44.8–79.5).

Conclusions

CT-derived radiomic features may be a useful imaging biomarker for TET histology and TNM stage.
Genome-wide association analysis of anthracnose resistance in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]
Authors: Mengistu Girma , Shimelis Hussein , Assefa Ermias , Lule Dagnachew
Published: December 2021

In warm-humid ago-ecologies of the world, sorghum [Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench] production is severely affected by anthracnose disease caused byColletotrichum sublineolumHenn. New sources of anthracnose resistance should be identified to introgress novel genes into susceptible varieties in resistance breeding programs. The objective of this study was to determine genome-wide association of Diversity Arrays Technology Sequencing (DArTseq) based single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) markers and anthracnose resistance genes in diverse sorghum populations for resistance breeding. Three hundred sixty-six sorghum populations were assessed for anthracnose resistance in three seasons in western Ethiopia using artificial inoculation. Data on anthracnose severity and the relative area under the disease progress curve were computed. Furthermore, the test populations were genotyped using SNP markers with DArTseq protocol. Population structure analysis and genome-wide association mapping were undertaken based on 11,643 SNPs with <10% missing data. The evaluated population was grouped into eight distinct genetic clusters. A total of eight significant (P < 0.001) marker-trait associations (MTAs) were detected, explaining 4.86–15.9% of the phenotypic variation for anthracnose resistance. Out of which the four markers were above the cutoff point. The significant MTAs in the assessed sorghum population are useful for marker-assisted selection (MAS) in anthracnose resistance breeding programs and for gene and quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping.
Conservatism predicts aversion to consequential Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Castelo Noah , Ward Adrian F.
Published: December 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize society by automating tasks as diverse as driving cars, diagnosing diseases, and providing legal advice. The degree to which AI can improve outcomes in these and other domains depends on how comfortable people are trusting AI for these tasks, which in turn depends on lay perceptions of AI. The present research examines how these critical lay perceptions may vary as a function of conservatism. Using five survey experiments, we find that political conservatism is associated with low comfort with and trust in AI—i.e., with AI aversion. This relationship between conservatism and AI aversion is explained by the link between conservatism and risk perception; more conservative individuals perceive AI as being riskier and are therefore more averse to its adoption. Finally, we test whether a moral reframing intervention can reduce AI aversion among conservatives.
Fish provision in a changing environment: The buffering effect of regional trade networks
Authors: González-Mon Blanca , Lindkvist Emilie , Bodin Örjan , Zepeda-Domínguez José Alberto , Schlüter Maja
Published: December 2021

Local and regional trade networks in small-scale fisheries are important for food security and livelihoods across the world. Such networks consist of both economic flows and social relationships, which connect different production regions to different types of fish demand. The structure of such trade networks, and the actions that take place within them (e.g., people fishing, buying, selling), can influence the capacity of small-scale fisheries to provide sufficient fish in a changing social and ecological context. In this study, we aim to understand the importance of networks between different types of traders that access spatially-distinct fish stocks for the availability and variability of fish provision. We deployed a mixed-methods approach, combining agent-based modelling, network analysis and qualitative data from a small-scale fishery in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The empirical data allowed us to investigate the trade processes that occur within trade networks; and the generation of distinct, empirically-informed network structures. Formalized in an agent-based model, these network structures enable analysis of how different trade networks affect the dynamics of fish provision and the exploitation level of fish stocks. Model results reveal how trade strategies based on social relationships and species diversification can lead to spillover effects between fish species and fishing regions. We found that the proportion of different trader types and their spatial connectivity have the potential to increase fish provision. However, they can also increase overexploitation depending on the specific connectivity patterns and trader types. Moreover, increasing connectivity generally leads to positive outcomes for some individual traders, but this does not necessarily imply better outcomes at the system level. Overall, our model provides an empirically-grounded, stylized representation of a fisheries trading system, and reveals important trade-offs that should be considered when evaluating the potential effect of future changes in regional trade networks.
Analysis of PET parameters predicting response to radiotherapy for myeloid sarcoma
Authors: Choi Kyu Hye , Song Jin Ho , Kwak Yoo-Kang , Lee Jong Hoon , Jang Hong Seok
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Positron-emission tomography (PET)-CT has recently been used for diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy for myeloid sarcoma, but there is little research on predicting the response of radiotherapy. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between PET-CT variables and the response to radiotherapy in patients with myeloid sarcoma.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted in myeloid sarcoma patients who received radiotherapy and PET-CT before and after radiotherapy. The response to radiotherapy was evaluated based on the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer PET response criteria, and binary regression analysis was performed to assess the factors predicting reductions in the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax).

Results

Twenty-seven sites in 12 patients were included in the study. Complete metabolic responses were seen in 24 patients after radiotherapy, a partial metabolic response in one, and progressive metabolic disease in two patients. The prescribed dose of more than 3000 cGy10 was significantly greater in the treatment control group (P = 0.024). In binary logistic regression analysis predicting reductions in the SUVmax of more than 70% after radiotherapy, the pretreatment SUVmax (≥ 7.5) and further chemotherapy after radiotherapy showed significant differences in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusion

Good metabolic responses (complete or partial) to radiotherapy were achieved in 92.6% of the myeloid sarcoma patients. Radiation doses < 3000 cGy10 and increased SUVmax were related to treatment failure and high SUVmax before radiotherapy was a factor influencing SUVmax reduction. Further large-scale studies are needed.
Streptococcus gordonii DL1 evades polymorphonuclear leukocyte-mediated killing via resistance to lysozyme
Authors: Urano-Tashiro Yumiko , Saiki Keitarou , Yamanaka Yuki , Ishikawa Yuiko , Takahashi Yukihiro
Published: December 2021

Streptococcus gordonii is an etiological bacterial agent of infective endocarditis. Although the pathogenesis mechanisms are not well understood, the interaction between streptococci and phagocytes is considered important for the development of infective endocarditis. Previous studies show that some S. gordonii strains, including DL1, survive in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), whereas other strains such as SK12 are sensitive to PMN-dependent killing. In this study, we assessed the differences between the sensitivity of S. gordonii DL1 and S. gordonii SK12 to PMN-dependent killing. S. gordonii DL1 showed a higher survival when treated with PMNs than SK12. Both S. gordonii DL1 and S. gordonii SK12 showed high resistance to low pH condition. Compared to S. gordonii SK12, S. gordonii DL1 was sensitive to hydrogen peroxide. However, the resistance of S. gordonii DL1 to the tested bactericidal agents, especially lysozyme, was higher than that of SK12. Furthermore, we performed a bactericidal assay by treating a mixture of S. gordonii DL1 and SK12 with PMNs. S. gordonii DL1 did not enhance the survival of S. gordonii SK12 exposed to PMNs. These results indicated that S. gordonii DL1 is resistant to bactericidal agents that degrade bacteria in phagolysosomes. In addition, there was no secretory factor involved in the resistance to bactericidal agents. The findings of this study may help develop treatments for infective endocarditis caused by S. gordonii.
Inter-individual differences in pain anticipation and pain perception in migraine: Neural correlates of migraine frequency and cortisol-to-dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) ratio
Authors: Kökönyei Gyöngyi , Galambos Attila , Kocsel Natália , Szabó Edina , Édes Andrea Edit , Gecse Kinga , Baksa Dániel , Pap Dorottya , Kozák Lajos R. , Bagdy György , Juhász Gabriella
Published: December 2021

Previous studies targeting inter-individual differences in pain processing in migraine mainly focused on the perception of pain. Our main aim was to disentangle pain anticipation and perception using a classical fear conditioning task, and investigate how migraine frequency and pre-scan cortisol-to-dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) ratio as an index of neurobiological stress response would relate to neural activation in these two phases. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) data of 23 participants (18 females; mean age: 27.61± 5.36) with episodic migraine without aura were analysed. We found that migraine frequency was significantly associated with pain anticipation in brain regions comprising the midcingulate and caudate, whereas pre-scan cortisol-to DHEA-S ratio was related to pain perception in the pre-supplementary motor area (pre-SMA). Both results suggest exaggerated preparatory responses to pain or more general to stressors, which may contribute to the allostatic load caused by stressors and migraine attacks on the brain.
Healthcare-associated links in transmission of nontuberculous mycobacteria among people with cystic fibrosis (HALT NTM) study: Rationale and study design
Authors: Gross Jane E. , Caceres Silvia , Poch Katie , Hasan Nabeeh A. , Davidson Rebecca M. , Epperson L. Elaine , Lipner Ettie , Vang Charmie , Honda Jennifer R. , Strand Matthew , Strong Michael , Saiman Lisa , Prevots D. Rebecca , Olivier Kenneth N. , Nick Jerry A.
Published: December 2021

Background

Healthcare-associated transmission of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) among people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) has been reported and is of increasing concern. No standardized epidemiologic investigation tool has been published for healthcare-associated NTM outbreak investigations. This report describes the design of an ongoing observational study to standardize the approach to NTM outbreak investigation among pwCF.

Methods

This is a parallel multi-site study of pwCF within a single Center who have respiratory NTM isolates identified as being highly-similar. Participants have a history of positive airway cultures for NTM, receive care within a single Center, and have been identified as part of a possible outbreak based on genomic analysis of NTM isolates. Participants are enrolled in the study over a 3-year period. Primary endpoints are identification of a shared healthcare-associated encounter(s) among patients in a Center and identification of environmental isolates that are genetically highly-similar to respiratory isolates recovered from pwCF. Secondary endpoints include characterization of potential transmission modes and settings, as well as incidence and prevalence of healthcare-associated environmental NTM species/subspecies by geographical region.

Discussion

We hypothesize that genetically highly-similar strains of NTM among pwCF cared for at the same Center may arise from healthcare sources including patient-to-patient transmission and/or acquisition from environmental sources. This novel study design will establish a standardized, evidence-based epidemiologic investigation tool for healthcare-associated NTM outbreak investigation within CF Care Centers, will broaden the scope of independent outbreak investigations and demonstrate the frequency and nature of healthcare-associated NTM transmission in CF Care Centers nationwide. Furthermore, it will provide valuable insights into modeling risk factors associated with healthcare-associated NTM transmission and better inform future infection prevention and control guidelines. This study will systematically characterize clinically-relevant NTM isolates of CF healthcare environmental dust and water biofilms and set the stage to describe the most common environmental sources within the healthcare setting harboring clinically-relevant NTM isolates.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04024423. Date of registry July 18, 2019.
Viral RNA N6-methyladenosine modification modulates both innate and adaptive immune responses of human respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Xue Miaoge , Zhang Yuexiu , Wang Haitao , Kairis Elizabeth L. , Lu Mijia , Ahmad Sadeem , Attia Zayed , Harder Olivia , Zhang Zijie , Wei Jiangbo , Chen Phylip , Gao Youling , Peeples Mark E. , Sharma Amit , Boyaka Prosper , He Chuan , Hur Sun , Niewiesk Stefan , Li Jianrong
Published: December 2021

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of respiratory tract infections in humans. A well-known challenge in the development of a live attenuated RSV vaccine is that interferon (IFN)-mediated antiviral responses are strongly suppressed by RSV nonstructural proteins which, in turn, dampens the subsequent adaptive immune responses. Here, we discovered a novel strategy to enhance innate and adaptive immunity to RSV infection. Specifically, we found that recombinant RSVs deficient in viral RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and RSV grown in m6A methyltransferase (METTL3)-knockdown cells induce higher expression of RIG-I, bind more efficiently to RIG-I, and enhance RIG-I ubiquitination and IRF3 phosphorylation compared to wild-type virion RNA, leading to enhanced type I IFN production. Importantly, these m6A-deficient RSV mutants also induce a stronger IFN response in vivo, are significantly attenuated, induce higher neutralizing antibody and T cell immune responses in mice and provide complete protection against RSV challenge in cotton rats. Collectively, our results demonstrate that inhibition of RSV RNA m6A methylation enhances innate immune responses which in turn promote adaptive immunity.
In vitro propagation and conservation of Leontopodium palibinianum Beauverd (Asteraceae), endemic species of Primorye Territory
Authors: Pianova (Berdasova) Anastasia S. , Salokhin Aleksey V. , Sabutski Yuriy E.
Published: December 2021

The microclonal propagation protocol including initiation, propagation, rootage, and adaptation in the premises of the Botanical Garden-Institute FEB RAS was developed for the first time for a vulnerable endemic species of Primorye Territory Leontopodium palibinianum (Palibin’s edelweiss). It was shown that the medium’s mineral composition as well as changes in the concentration of exogenous growth regulators under the same light and temperature conditions had a substantial impact the processes of growth and morphogenesis of Palibin’s edelweiss. Optimal components of the microclonal propagation medium of the species were full strength Murashige and Skoog medium. Reducing in the salt amount leads to a slowdown and arrest of in vitro culture growth. Adding 2 mg/l of 6-BAP to the full strength MS medium led to mass production of plant material with the propagation factor of 9.8. It should be noted that GK3 has a positive effect on the Palibin’s edelweiss culture development in vitro when used together with low concentrations of 6-BAP. When 2.4-D was used at the concentration of 1 mg/l in the medium, direct organogenesis was observed after 14 days of cultivation and further accompanied by formation of additional plant shoots. Also, addition of 1 mg/l 2iP to the MS medium had the same effect. The growth regulators caused a low propagation factor (2.4), which in turn led to production of 2–3 regenerative plants. The IBA concentration of 2 mg/l stimulated formation of the root system capable of positively withstanding acclimatization under unsterile conditions, but lowering the IBA concentration to 1 mg/L of the medium also contributed to formation of such root system, with a slower pace. During acclimatization to ex vitroconditions plant survival did not depend on the types of mixtures being used. After the acclimatization plants are stretched in height and produced additional shoots on 20–25th day.
Chromosome numbers of invasive and potentially invasive species in the flora of the Republic of Altai. Post V
Authors: Zykova Elena Yu. , Pankova Tatyana V. , Lomonosova Maria N.
Published: December 2021

Chromosome numbers (2n) of 15 invasive and potentially invasive plant species from the families Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Malvaceae, Onagraceae, Papaveraceae, Plantaginaceae, Poaceae, Polygonaceae, Portulacaceae, and Rosaceae are reported on the samples collected in the Republic of Altai. To determine the chromosome number (ploidy level), the method of direct counting was used. Among studied species, chromosome complements for Persicaria orientalis (2n = 22), Potentilla norvegica (2n = 42), Veronica persica (2n = 28) were first examined from Russia; for Papaver rhoeas (2n = 14) and Rumex obtusifolius (2n = 20) – from Asian part of Russia; for Bromus squarrosus (2n = 14), Cosmos bipinnatus (2n = 24), and Eriochloa villosa (2n = 54) – from Siberia. Abutilon theophrasti (2n = 42) and Lepidium densiflorum (2n = 32) were first studied from Western Siberia; Epilobium ciliatum subsp. adenocaulon (2n = 36), Portulaca oleracea (2n = 36), Spergularia rubra (2n = 36), and Xanthium strumarium (2n = 36) – from the Republic of Altai. Common distribution and the history of floristic findings of these species in the Republic of Altai are given. Previously published data on chromosome numbers from Russia are cited.
THE IMPACT OF MACROECONOMIC POLICY ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN SUB-SAHARA AFRICAN COUNTRIES
Authors: Workneh Ayana
Published: December 2021

The prime purpose of this article was to investigate the monetary and fiscal policy interaction and their impact on economic growth in a panel of 35 sub-Saharan African economies from 1980 to 2018. To achieve this objective, the study employs a Panel Vector Autoregression (PVAR) estimation technique. Using a PVAR approach, we show that an expansionary fiscal policy through tax revenue and an unexpected expansionary monetary policy via broad money supply have a positive effect on gross national income, whereas an expansionary fiscal policy through the government spending have a contractionary impact on gross national income. We also find that an unexpected expansionary monetary policy via real exchange rate has no effect on gross national income. Finally, we show evidence that there is a negative and significant relationship between fiscal policy and monetary policy and thus supporting the need of policy coordination between fiscal and monetary policies. Therefore, to have continuous and sustainable economic growth, the coordination of monetary and fiscal policies is vital, and the lack of this coordination leads to a sharp downturn of overall economic performance, even can hurt the economy

The empirical results also show that the variation in gross national income is more explained by fiscal policy variables than monetary policy variables which show fiscal policy is more effective than monetary policy in influencing gross national income.
A economia da bicicleta no Brasil: métodos e resultados
Authors: Andrade Victor , Bastos Pedro , Marino Filipe
Published: December 2021

Este artigo apresenta os métodos e resultados preliminares de um estudo exploratório realizado para mapear, caracterizar e monetizar a economia da bicicleta, representada neste trabalho pelo conceito de “complexo econômico”. Compreender em que medida a bicicleta constitui ou é constituída por atividades econômicas específicas (e suas inter-relações) é fundamental para um diagnóstico do seu potencial econômico e, também, para a produção de dados que possam subsidiar nichos de pesquisa científica no tema, elaboração de políticas públicas e planos de negócio, dentre outros. Com base em revisão de literatura nacional e internacional, foi definido uma matriz de dimensões, temáticas e indicadores, apontando para cada uma delas caminhos possíveis para extração e mensuração de dados. A partir deste arcabouço metodológico, o trabalho apresentou quatro dimensões do complexo econômico da bicicleta: 1) Cadeia Produtiva, 2) Políticas Públicas, 3) Transporte, 4) Atividades Relacionadas. Além de trazer resultados baseados em testes de métodos, esse artigo também indica recomendações e conclusões para aprimoramento deste arcabouço.
Criminalización y violencias hacia la población migrante travesti/trans sudamericana residente en el Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires
Authors: Perez Ripossio Ramiro N.
Published: December 2021

El artículo describe los procesos de violencia y criminalización que experimenta la población migrantes travesti/trans sudamericana en el AMBA (Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires), durante el período 2017-2019. Los proyectos migratorios de las travestis/trans sudamericanas poseen un conjunto de dimensiones e implican atravesar una serie de momentos para su concreción. Cuando estas personas se insertan en la sociedad receptora transitan un conjunto de vivencias, entre ellas, experimentan diferentes violencias de las fuerzas de seguridad y procesos de criminalización del Poder Judicial. Los métodos empleados fueron la teoría fundamentada, la etnografía y el relato de vida. Las técnicas de investigación fueron, principalmente, la entrevista en profundidad y la observación participante. Se construyó un muestreo teórico que contempló 44 casos permitiendo descubrir una multiplicidad de categorías de análisis al igual que propiedades y dimensiones que concluyeron en la saturación teórica. La investigación halló que en los procesos de violencia y criminalización la condición migratoria y la identidad de género de las entrevistadas interactúan en una matriz de dominación que acentúa las vulnerabilidades que experimentan.
Von UniNEtZ zu UniNEtZ II ‐ eine Reflexion zu Erreichtem und ein Ausblick zu Angestrebtem
Authors: Stötter Johann , Kromp-Kolb Helga , Lang Reinhold , Schneeberger Annemarie , Glatz Ingomar , Allerberger Franziska , Fehr Franz
Published: December 2021

In den letzten drei Jahren haben über 300 Wissenschaftler(innen) im Rahmen des Projekts Universitäten und Nachhaltige EntwicklungsZiele (UniNEtZ) an Optionen gearbeitet, wie die nachhaltigen Entwicklungsziele der Agenda 2030 in Österreich umgesetzt werden
können. Neben wesentlichen Beiträgen zu einer sozial-ökologischen Transformation sollen in einer nächsten Phase Impulse für die Transformation des Wissenschaftssystems selbst gesetzt werden.
No green deal without a nature-based economy
Authors: Akandil Cengiz , Ismail Sascha A. , Kueffer Christoph
Published: December 2021

A green deal cannot be left to economics and engineering. It requires social innovations and new economic thinking that enable people to make a decent living based on ecological practices.
It’s not enough to be right! The climate crisis, power, and the climate movement
Authors: Pohlmann Angela , Walz Kerstin , Engels Anita , Aykut Stefan C. , Altstaedt Sören , Colell Arwen , Dietrich Udo , Feddersen Hauke , Friedrich Annabarbara , Klenke Jan , Krieger Franziska , Schenuit Felix , Datchoua-Tirvaudey Alvine , Schulz Markus , Zengerling Cathrin
Published: December 2021

The demands of the climate movement ‐ for rapid and profound change ‐ are based on scientific findings and the political commitments to theParis Agreement.The activists are, therefore, factually “right”. However, being right is not enough to justify or to accelerate the practical implementation of knowledge and decisions. We explain which social factors are at work, and how the climate movement can benefit if they incorporate these factors into actions for social change.
Transdisciplinary research: towards an integrative perspective
Authors: Lam David P. M. , Freund Maria E. , Kny Josefa , Marg Oskar , Mbah Melanie , Theiler Lena , Bergmann Matthias , Brohmann Bettina , Lang Daniel J. , Schäfer Martina
Published: December 2021

Since the emergence of transdisciplinary research, context dependencies, innovative formats and methods, societal effects, and scientific effects are key aspects that have been discussed at length. However, what is still missing is an integrative perspective on these four aspects, and
the guidance on how to apply such an integrative perspective in order to realize the full transformative potential of transdisciplinary research. We provide an overview of each aspect and highlight relevant research questions that need to be answered to advance transdisciplinary research.
Wenn die Technik sprechen lernt
Authors: Dickel Sascha
Published: December 2021

Wir scheinen am Anfang einer Ära kommunizie­render Technik zu stehen. Amazons Sprachassistenzsystem Alexa ist in Millionen von privaten Haushalten eingezogen, Chatbots gehören heute zu den Standardanwendungen im Kundenservice und der Einsatz von Algorithmen zur Erzeugung von Texten ist in die Praxis professionellen Publizierens integriert worden. An kommunizierenden Maschinen zei­gen sich kontroverse Deutungen von Autonomie, Kreativität, Komple­xität und Opazität von Mensch und Maschine wie in einem Brennglas. Der Beitrag argumentiert, dass kommunizierende Technik eine eigenständige kulturelle Herausforderung für mediatisierte Gesellschaften darstellt, der sich eine reflexive Technikfolgenabschätzung hermeneutisch zu stellen hat.
Künstliche Intelligenz parlamentarisch (mit)gestalten
Authors: Vater Christian , Geitz Eckhard
Published: December 2021

Seit 40 Jahren beschäftigen sich Enquete-Kommissionen des Deutschen Bundestages in ihren Berichten mit Fragen der Auswirkungen „neuer Informations- und Kommunikationstechnologien“ auf die bundesdeutsche Gesellschaft, worunter bereits frühzeitig auch ‚künstliche Intelligenz‘ fällt. Im vorliegenden Aufsatz wird ein erster Überblick über die Entwicklung der inhaltlichen Schwerpunkte wie auch der Präsentationsform in diesem Quellentyp gegeben dessen Aufkommen in den 1980er-Jahren mit dem Anfang der parlamentarischen Technikfolgenabschätzung zusammenfällt. Unsere Forschungsergebnisse zeigen unter anderem, dass aktuelle Berichte weniger konkrete Handlungsempfehlungen an Parlamentarier:innen geben als frühere und somit politische (Mit-)Gestaltungsansprüche weniger stark betonen.
Bürgerwissenschaftliche Forschungsansätze in Medizin und Gesundheitsforschung
Authors: Hammel Gertrud , Woll Silvia , Baumann Martina , Scherz Constanze , Maia Maria , Behrisch Birgit , Borgmann Sandra Olivia , Eichinger Michael , Gardecki Johanna , Heyen Nils B. , Icks Andrea , Pobiruchin Monika , Weschke Sarah
Published: December 2021

In den Bürgerwissenschaften, auch bekannt unter dem englischen Begriff Citizen Science, existiert eine Vielzahl an Forschungsansätzen und Methoden. Während diese in vielen wissenschaftlichen Disziplinen gut etabliert sind, finden sich augenscheinlich relativ wenige davon in der medizinischen und Gesundheitsforschung. Allerdings zeigt ein Blick in die Praxis, dass bürgerwissenschaftliche Ansätze in der Medizin und Gesundheitsforschung durchaus praktiziert werden, jedoch häufig unter anderen Namen. Der Artikel bietet aus interdisziplinärer Perspektive einen (selektiven) Überblick über Begriffe, reflektiert diese und die dahinterstehenden Methoden und diskutiert sie vergleichend. Im Fokus steht dabei der Grad der Beteiligung der Bürger*innen bzw. Patient*innen an wissenschaftlicher Forschung.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Protein Kinase Inhibitors in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Roušarová Jaroslava , Šíma Martin , Slanař Ondřej
Published: December 2021

Protein kinase inhibitors (PKIs) represent up-to-date therapeutic approach in breast cancer treatment. Although cancer is a rapidly progressive disease, many substances, including PKIs, are usually used at fixed doses without regard to each patient’s individuality. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is a tool that allows individualization of therapy based on drug plasma levels. For TDM conduct, exposure-response relationships of drug substances are required. The pharmacokinetic data and exposure-response evidence supporting the use of TDM for 6 PKIs used in breast cancer treatment, one of the most common female tumour diseases, are discussed in this review.
Patella Fracture Identified Using Point-of-care Ultrasound
Authors: Richman Mark , Kieffer Andrew , Moss Rachel , Dexeus Daniel
Published: December 2021

A 49-year-old female fell from standing. Her right knee extended into the air. She had acute right knee pain preventing weight-bearing. Her knee was most comfortable fully-extended. She could not flex it due to pain, nor extend it against resistance. Tenderness and a horizontal defect were noted over the anterior knee. Bedside ultrasound demonstrated a horizontally-fractured patella (confirmed on X-ray) with intact femoral and patellar tendons. She was put in a knee immobilizer and underwent surgery, with return to full function and activities. Ultrasound can identify patella fractures and help with early evaluation, management, and specialty referral, as well as ordering more-focused imaging. In one study, POCUS (point-of-care ultrasound) for patella fracture had 95% sensitivity, 63% specificity, 86% positive predictive value, and 83% negative predictive value. The dynamic nature of ultrasound allows a ruptured patella (87% sensitivity) or quadriceps tendon (100% sensitivity) to be excluded with high certainty.
Comparative longitudinal variation of total IgG and IgA anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in recipients of BNT162b2 vaccination
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Salvagno Gian Luca , Henry Brandon M. , Pighi Laura , De Nitto Simone , Gianfilippi Gianluca
Published: December 2021

Objectives

This article aims to summarize the 6-month variation of a vast array of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in recipients of BNT162b2 mRNA-based vaccination.

Methods

The study population consisted of 84 baseline SARS-CoV-2 seronegative healthcare employees (median age 45 years, 53.6% females), receiving mRNA-based BNT162b2 primary vaccination cycle. Blood was collected before the first and second BNT162b2 vaccine doses, as well as 1, 3 and 6 months afterwards. The serum titers of the following anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were assayed: total anti-RBD (receptor binding domain), anti-spike trimeric IgG, anti-RBD IgG and anti-spike S1 IgA.

Results

All antibodies’ levels peaked 1 month after vaccination, but then displayed a considerable decrease. The median rates of 6-month decline were −95% for IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD, −85% for IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 trimeric spike, −73% for IgA anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 and −56% for total anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibodies, respectively. The median time of seronegativization was estimated at 579 days for total anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibodies, 271 days for IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 trimeric spike, 264 days for IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD and 208 days for IgA anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1, respectively. The rate of seropositive subjects declined from 98–100% at the peak to 50–100% after 6 months. The inter-individual variation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies reduction at 6 months was 3–44% from the peak.

Conclusions

The results of this longitudinal serosurvey demonstrate that the titer of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies declined 6 months after BNT162b2 vaccination, with median time of IgG/IgA seronegativization estimated between 7 and 9 months, thus supporting the opportunity of administering vaccine boosters approximately 5 to 6 months after the last dose of the primary vaccination cycle.
lncRNA MALAT1/miR-143 axis is a potential biomarker for in-stent restenosis and is involved in the multiplication of vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Cao Chen , Zhen Wei , Yu Haibin , Zhang Li , Liu Yiling
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study is to observe the potential value and underlying mechanism of the metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1)/miR-143 axis in ISR. A total of 150 participants were enrolled, including 100 patients (observation group) with coronary heart disease who underwent stent implantation in the Department of Cardiology of our hospital between January 2018 and January 2020, and 50 healthy people (control group) concurrently underwent a physical examination. Serum MALAT1 and miR-143 levels were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α; 10 ng/mL) induced human vascular smooth muscle cells (HVSMCs). MALAT1 increased while miR-143 decreased in the observation group versus the control group (P < 0.001). The non-restenosis group had significantly elevated MALAT1 expression while decreased miR-143 expression than the restenosis group (P < 0.001). The areas under the curves of the expression of MALAT1 and miR-143 in predicting restenosis were 0.917 and 0.881, respectively. Following si-MALAT1 transfection, HVSMC multiplication and invasiveness decreased significantly (P < 0.05). miR-143-inhibitor was observed to upregulate the luciferase activity of MALAT1-WT (P < 0.05). MALAT1 is highly expressed in patients with ISR while miR-143 is decreased, and the MALAT1/miR-143 axis is a potential pathway to modulate the multiplication and invasiveness of HVSMCs.