bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabonomic Study on the Plasma of High-Fat Diet-Induced Dyslipidemia Rats Treated With Ge Gen Qin Lian Decoction By Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Xu Ziwei , Sheng Yixuan , Zeng Guowei , Zeng Zhijun , Li Bingtao , Jiang Li , Xu Guoliang , Zhang Qiyun
Published: October 2020

Background: Gegen Qinlian decoction(GGQLD) has a definite effect on T2DM in clinic, and it has the effect of lowering blood sugar, improving insulin resistance, and improve the blood lipid level of rats with dyslipidemia, but the intervention mechanism of GGQLD on dyslipidemia has not been clarified. Methods: Based on ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS), the metabolic profiles of rat serum samples were collected. The rat model of dyslipidemia was induced by 60% fat-fed high-fat diet. After feeding the rats with high-fat diet for 4 weeks, the dyslipidemia appeared. After 5 weeks of GGQLD(14.85g•kg-1) administration, the metabonomics of rats plasma samples in normal group, model group and administration group were analyzed. Mass profiler professional (MPP), SIMCA-P 14.1 and Graphpad prism 6.0 software were used combined with METLIN biological database and human metabolite database HMDB to screen and identify endogenous biomarkers. Metaboanalyst 4.0 software was used by combining with HMDB and KEGG databases, the enrichment and metabolic pathway of biomarkers were analyzed to explore the metabolic mechanism of dyslipidemia rats induced by high-fat diet and the intervention mechanism of Gegen Qinlian decoction.Results: After 5 weeks of administration of GGQLD, the levels of serum TC and TG were significantly decreased (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), while HDL-C and LDL-C were not significantly affected. After administration, the food intake of rats in administration group decreased gradually, and the change trend of body weight gradually slowed down. The metabonomics of rat plasma samples results showed that 23 potential biomarkers including α - linolenic acid, arachidonic acid and lysophosphatidylcholine were significantly changed in positive ion mode.Conclusion: Studies have shown that GGQLD has significant lipid-lowering effect on dyslipidemia rats induced by high-fat diet, and its preventive mechanism is related to tryptophan metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, α - linolenic acid metabolism, arachidonic acid, glycerophosphatidyl metabolism pathway.
Genome-wide Identification and Transcriptional Characterization of Dna Methyltransferases Conferring Temperature-sensitive Male Sterility in Wheat
Authors: Li Dan , Feng Bian-e , Liu Yong-Jie , Gong Jie , Tang Yi-Miao , Zhang Li-Ping , Pang Bin-Shuang , Sun Ren-Wei , Zhang Feng-Ting , Chen Zhao-Bo , Wang Yong-Bo , Chen Xian-Chao , Wang Ai-Ping , Zhao Chang-Ping , Gao Shiqing
Published: October 2020

Background: DNA methyltransferase (DMT) genes contribute to plant stress responses and development by de novo establishment and subsequent maintenance of DNA methylation during replication. The photoperiod or/and temperature-sensitive genic male sterile (P/TGMS) lines play an important role in hybrid seed production of wheat. However, only few studies have been reported about the effect of the DMT genes on temperature-sensitive male sterility of wheat. Although DMT genes have been researched in some plant species, the identification and analysis of DMT genes in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) based on genome-wide levels has not been reported.Results: In this study, a detailed overview of phylogeny of 52 wheat DMT (TaDMT) genes was presented. Homoeolog retention for TaDMT genes was significantly above the average retention rate for whole-wheat genes, indicating the functional importance of many DMT homoeologs. We found that the strikingly high number of TaDMT genes mainly resulted from the significant expansion of TaDRM subfamily. Intriguingly, all 5 paralogs belonged to the wheat DRM subfamily and we speculated tandem duplications might play a crucial role in the TaDRM subfamily expansion. Through the transcriptional analysis of TaDMT genes in a TGMS line BS366 and its hybrids and its hybrids with other six fertile lines under sterile and fertile conditions, we concluded that TaCMT-D2, TaMET1-B1, and TaDRM-U6 might be involved in male sterility in BS366. Furthermore, a correlation analysis showed that TaMET1-B1 might negatively regulate the expression of TaRAFTIN1A, an important gene for pollen development, so we speculated an epigenetic regulatory mechanism underling the male sterility of BS366 by the interaction between TaMET1-B1 and TaRAFTIN1A.Conclusions: Our findings presented a detailed phylogenic overview of the DMT genes and could provide novel insights into the effects of the DMT genes on TGMS wheat.
Effects of the socio-economic transition on health professions education: The case of Mongolia
Authors: Amgalan Nomin , Shin Jwa-Seop , Lee Seung-Hee , Badamdorj Oyungoo , Ravjir Oyungerel , Yoon Hyun Bae
Published: October 2020

Background: Former socialist countries have undergone a socio-economic transition in recent decades. New challenges for the healthcare system have arisen in the transition economy, leading to demands for better management and development of the health professions. However, few studies have explored the effects of this transition on health professions education. Thus, we investigated the effects of the socio-economic transition on the health professions education system in Mongolia, a transition economy country, and to identify changes in requirements. Methods: We used a multi-level perspective to explore the effects of the transition, including the input, process, and output levels of the health professions education system. The input level refers to planning and management, the process level refers to the actual delivery of educational services, and the output level refers to issues related to the health professionals, produced by the system. This study utilized a qualitative research design, including document review and interviews with local representatives. Content analysis and the constant comparative method were used for data analysis. Results: We explored tensions in the three levels of the health professions education system. First, medical schools attained academic authority for planning and management without proper regulation and financial support. The government sets tuition fees, which are the only financial resource of medical schools; thus, medical schools attempt to enroll more students in order to adapt to the market environment. Second, the quality of educational services varies across institutions due to the absence of a core curriculum and differences in the learning environment. After the transition, the number of private medical schools rapidly increased without quality control, while hospitals started their own specialized training programs. Third, health professionals are struggling to maintain their professional values and development in the market environment. Fixed salaries lead to a lack of motivation, and quality evaluation measures more likely reflect government control than quality improvement.Conclusions: Mongolia continues to face the consequences of the socio-economic transition. Medical schools’ lack of financial authority, the varying quality of educational services, and poor professional development are the major adverse effects. Finding external financial support, developing a core curriculum, and introducing performance-based payments are recommended.
Identification of Potential Plasma Biomarkers in Early-stage Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma-derived Exosomes Based on RNA Sequencing 
Authors: Zheng Wei , Ye Wangzhong , Huang Xinyi , Xu Yuanji , Wu Zijie , Chen Qinyan , Lin Zhizhong , Chen Yanyu , Bai Penggang , Chen Chuanben
Published: October 2020

Background. Early diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is vital to improve the prognosis of these patients. However, early diagnosis of NPC is typically challenging. Therefore, we explored the roles and mechanisms of exosomes in plasma of patients with early-stage NPC. Methods. Exosomes in plasma were extracted by ultra-high-speed centrifugation. Western blot and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to verify the purity of exosomes. The sequencing data (6 plasma samples from healthy volunteers vs. 6 NPC plasma samples) were analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA), DESeq2, gene ontology (GO), kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), and TargetScan. The differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were obtained from the dataset (GSE118720) downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) repository. Additionally, the datasets downloaded from the GEO database (GSE12452, GSE13597, GSE53819, GSE64634) were used to predict the target genes and functions of hsa-miR-1301-3p. qPCR was applied to verify the differences in the expressions of hsa-miR-1301-3p between 10 normal plasma and 10 NPC plasma samples.Results. Western blot, TEM, and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis showed adequate purity of the extracted exosomes. RNA-seq analysis revealed 21 upregulated miRNAs, and 10 downregulated miRNAs in plasma exosomes of early-stage NPC patients. GO analysis showed that the target genes of DEmiRNAs were mainly enriched in DNA synthesis and transcription regulation. KEGG analysis revealed that DEmiRNAs were mainly enriched in PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. Moreover, the expression of hsa-mir-1301-3p was verified to be significantly upregulated in enlarged samples of plasma exosomes.Conclusions. We identified several DEmiRNAs extracted from tumor-derived exosomes between normal plasma and early-stage NPC plasma. Bioinformatics analyses indicated that these DEmiRNAs may be related to NPC development. Our study may provide novel insights into underlying biomarkers and mechanisms of plasma exosomes in early-stage NPC.
Overexpression of Keratin17 is Associated With Prognosis of Oral Cancer in the Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Lili , Song Hongguang , Yang Shiming
Published: October 2020

Background: Oral cancer represents an common cancer among head and neck malignancies. The early metastasis contributes the poor prognosis of this disease. Keratin (KRT) family has ever been found to be involved in some crucial biological processes in normal cells and human cancer cells. As a member of this family, keratin 17 (KRT17) has been studied in some different cancers. In the present study, we aimed at assess the prognostic value of KRT17 in patients with oral cancer.Methods: Expression of KRT17 in 135 paired oral cancer tissues and noncancerous tissues was estimated by using quantitative Real-Time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). The prognostic value of KRT17 was assessed with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis.Results: Upregulated expression of KRT17 was detected in oral cancer tissues compared with the matched normal tissues (P<0.001). The expression of KRT17 was found associated with lymph node metastasis (P=0.025) and clinical stage (P=0.005). The Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that the patients with high KRT17 expression possessed worse overall survival than those with low level cases (log-rank P=0.000). From the data of Cox analysis, we considered the KRT17 expression was an independent prognostic biomarker in oral cancer patients with HR of 2.489, 95% CI of 1.333-4.648 and P of 0.004.Conclusion: In summary, the expression of KRT17 was found upregulated in oral cancer tissue specimens and it was proved to serve as an independent prognostic biomarker in patients with oral cancer.
Propofol Impairs Specification of Retinal Cell Types in Zebrafish by Inhibiting Zisp-mediated Noggin-1 Palmitoylation and Trafficking
Authors: Fan Xiaoqing , Yang Haoran , Hu Lizhu , Wang Delong , Wang Ruiting , Hao Aijun , Chen Xueran
Published: October 2020

Background: Propofol can have adverse effects on developing neurons, leading to cognitive disorders. However, the mechanism remains elusive. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect and molecular mechanism of propofol on neuronal development in zebrafish. Methods: The effect of propofol on neuronal development was demonstrated by a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments. mRNA injections, Whole-mount in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time PCR, TUNEL, EdU, Co-Immunoprecipitation and acyl–biotin exchange (ABE) labeling method were carried out to demonstrate the potential mechanisms of propofol-mediated zisp expression and specification of retinal cell types.Results: Propofol impaired the specification of retinal cell types, thereby inhibiting neuronal and glial cell formation in retinas, mainly through inhibition of Zisp expression. Furthermore, Zisp promoted the secretion of a soluble form and the stabilization of a membrane-associated form of Noggin-1, a specific palmitoylation substrate.Conclusions: Propofol caused a severe phenotype during neuronal development in zebrafish. Our findings established a direct link between an anesthetic agent and protein palmitoylation in the regulation of neuronal development. This could be used to investigate the mechanisms via which the improper use of propofol might result in neuronal defects.
Modelling the temporal and spatial wind energy trend in the Caspian Sea
Authors: Rahime Milad , Gholamalifard Mehdi , Hesari Akbar Rashidi Ebrahim
Published: October 2020

The oceans and seas have huge areas of the planet. The ecosystem services that can be obtained from
these resources are very diverse and with potential one of these sources is wind power. As a result, the
Caspian Sea is widespread with a fragile ecosystem. Which seems to be the right choice for the
development of this industry. Therefore, for modeling the wind energy of the Caspian Sea, the data
from the ERA-Intrem for 1980 to 2015 combined with QuickScat and RapidScat remote sensing data.
The modeling results showed a power density of 173 W/m2, concentration density in the series process
showed that 67% of the Caspian Sea area has a decreasing trend, the rate of this sea change for the entire
period from 1980 to 2015 was 2.1 W/m2. These changes in the northern part of the Caspian Sea have a
higher rate than other parts. The sea is affected by climate change.
A Rigorous Study on Relation of Stroke Risk Factor With Specific Ischemic Brain Stroke in Indian Patients: A Case Control Study
Authors: SHRIVASTAV DHARMSHEEL , VERMA MANISH KUMAR , TRIPATHI PRATIBHA , SINGH DESH DEEPAK , SAXENA NIVEDITA , VERMA ALOK , KUSHWAHA J S , PRAKASH JAY , SINGH ANAND NARAYAN
Published: October 2020

BackgroundRecent evidences suggested that deficiency of Vit-D is associated with risk of ischemic stroke and its severity. The mechanism behind its relationship have been linked to total oxidant level and some other modifiable risk factor like hypertension, diabetes, smoking and alcohol consumption and tobacco chewing. However, there are disappearances in evidences. The aim of this study is to find out the role of Vit-D and Total oxidants in ischemic stroke and in disease progression.MethodsIn this case control study total 205 individuals of case and control enrolled in this study the demographic data like age, gender, ethnicity, dietary habit, addiction (smoking, alcohol, tobacco chewing) previous history of disease (hypertension, diabetes, any cardiovascular disease) were collected from family members and other medical record. ResultsThe mean age of case and control group of 63.91 ± 12.66 and 62.52 ± 7.04 respectively. There was significant difference between insufficient Vit-D level in case and control group (p<0.05) however, there were significant difference of MDA in the groups classified on the basis of Vit-D level in case and control (p<0.05) moreover, there were inverse association observed between Vit-D and MDA level in both case and control. Vit-D and MDA shows significant association ischemic stroke however, MDA have association with stroke severity. ConclusionThe result shows higher prevalence of Vit-D deficiency in ischemic stroke patients which induce MDA level parallelly. At low level of Vit-D and high level of MDA associated with the severity of stroke. Moreover, Vit-D and MDA shows significant association with stroke occurrence. Furthermore, MDA significantly associated with stroke severity however Vit-D does not show any association with stroke severity
Adherence to Self-managed Exercises for Patients with Persistent Subacromial Pain: The Ad-Shoulder Feasibility Study
Authors: Major Daniel H. , Grotle Margreth , Littlewood Chris , Brox Jens Ivar , Matre Dagfinn , Gallet Heidi V. , Røe Yngve
Published: October 2020

Background: Exercise is recommended for patients with subacromial pain. It has been suggested that good exercise adherence improves clinical outcomes. Despite this, little attention has been paid to the need for behavioural frameworks to enhance adherence to home exercise programs for patients with subacromial pain.Methods: A feasibility study with pre-post design was used. Participants aged > 18 years, with subacromial pain, who had received conservative treatment during the past six months, were recruited. The Ad-Shoulder intervention consisted of 1-5 individual sessions provided over 3 months and was based on 5 self-management skills, which aimed to enhance the patients’ self-efficacy and adherence to self-managed exercises. The primary objectives were assessed according to predefined progression criteria: 1) The recruitment rate (10 patients enrolled within 12 weeks); 2) Follow-up rate (≥80% on all self-reported measures); 3) Objective physical activity measures (≥80% of participants would contribute valid data at each time point), 4) Adherence with the self-managed exercises (≥80% of the participants would adhere to ≥80% of the assigned home exercise program); 5) Fidelity of the delivery of the intervention (The therapists delivered the intervention according to the protocol); 6) Adverse events (<30% would report adverse events (including mild)). The results were reported using descriptive statistics.Results: Eleven patients were recruited during 16 weeks. Ten patients completed the self-reported measures at baseline and Week 12. Objective physical activity measures were successfully obtained for 100% at baseline, 64% at week six and 82% at week 12. 55% of the participants satisfactorily completed at least 80% of their home exercise program. All sessions were delivered according to the protocol. None of the patients reported any adverse events. Conclusions: Objective physical activity data measures at baseline and week 12, follow-up, the physiotherapists’ fidelity to the intervention and adverse events met our pre-specified progression criteria. Recruitment and adherence to the self-managed exercise program were both below the anticipated level. Further intervention development is necessary to understand whether adherence to the self-managed exercises could be enhanced and additional methods of recruitment would need to be considered, including additional recruitment sites, in any planning for a future main trial.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04190836, Registered December 9, 2019 – Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04190836
Cutaneous Hyperpigmentation and Familial Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Associated With Germline KIT Mutation Treated With Imatinib: A Chinese Case Report
Authors: Yuan Wei , Huang Wen , Ren Lei , Lv Jinghuan , Xu Chen , Luan Lijuan , Huang Jie , Xue Anwei , Fang Yong , Gao Xiaodong , Shen Kuntang , Hou Yingyong
Published: October 2020

BackgroundFamilial gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) has been identified with multiple GISTs harboring the mutations in germline KIT and PDGFRA. There are only 35 kindreds with germline KIT and 6 with PDGFRA mutations have been reported to date. Familial GIST is often characterized by a series of manifestations, such as multiple lesions, hyperpigmentation, mastocytosis, and dysphagia. Only some kindreds have response to imatinib treatment.Materials and MethodsA 25-year-old Chinese woman presented to the hospital with abdominal pain, and computed tomography (CT) scan showed multiple tumors in the small intestine. Her father had a history of multifocal GISTs, and referred to the hospital with abdominal pain and tumor recurrences last year. Immuhistochemical analysis of CD117 and DOG-1 were performed on tumor samples from the two patients, while KIT mutational analysis was carried out by direct sequencing on DNA from paraffin-embedded specimens and saliva sample.ResultsMultiple GISTs associated with diffuse interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) hyperplasia were illustrated in these two patients. These tumors were positive for CD117 and DOG-1. The germline mutation at codon 560 of exon 11 (p.V560G) of the KIT gene were found. Treatment with imatinib resulted in favorable responses in both tumor and cutaneous hyperpigmentation.ConclusionsIt is difficult to make a correct diagnosis of familial GIST at first time due to its rarity. This case was finally diagnosed as familial GIST depending on the combination of diffuse ICC hyperplasia, germline KIT mutation, hyperpigmentation and its family history.
Experimental realization of non-Abelian gauge field in circuit
system
Authors: Yu Rui , Song Ziyin , Wu Tianyu , Wu Wenquan
Published: October 2020

Synthetic gauge field, especially the non-Abelian gauge field, has emerged as a new way to explore exotic physics in a wide range of materials and platforms. Here we present the building blocks, consisting of capacitors and inductors, to implement the non-Abelian tunneling matrices and show that circuit system is an appropriate choice to realize the non-Abelian gauge field. To demonstrate the novel physics enabled by the non-Abelian gauge field, we provide a simple and modular scheme to design the Rashba-Dresselhaus spin-orbit interaction and topological Chern state in circuits. By measuring the spin texture and
chiral edge states of the resonant frequency band structures, we confirm the spin-orbit effect and topological Chern state in circuits. Our schemes open a broad avenue to study non-Abelian gauge field and related physics in circuit platform.
Lessons From a Theory of Change-driven Evaluation of a Global Mental Health Funding Portfolio
Authors: Miguel-Esponda Georgina , Ryan Grace Kathryn , Lockwood-Estrin Georgia , Usmani Shamaila , Lee Lucy , Murphy Jill , Qureshi Onaiza , Endale Tarik , Regan Marguerite , Eaton Julian , De Silva Mary
Published: October 2020

BackgroundGiven the underinvestment in global mental health to-date, it is important to consider how best to maximize the impact of existing investments. Theory of Change (ToC) is increasingly attracting the interest of funders seeking to evaluate their own impact. This is the first of four papers investigating Grand Challenges Canada’s (GCC’s) first global mental health research funding portfolio (2012-2016) using a ToC-driven approach.MethodsA portfolio-level ToC map was developed through a collaborative process involving GCC grantees and other key stakeholders. Proposed ToC indicators were harmonised with GCC’s pre-existing Results-based Management and Accountability Framework to produce a “Core Metrics Framework” of 23 indicators linked to 17 outcomes of the ToC map. For each indicator relevant to their project, the grantee was asked to set a target prior to the start of implementation, then report results at six-month intervals. We used the latest available dataset from all 56 projects in GCC’s global mental health funding portfolio to produce a descriptive analysis of projects’ characteristics and outcomes related to delivery. Results12,999 people were trained to provide services, the majority of whom were lay or other non-specialist health workers. Most projects exceeded their training targets for capacity-building, except for those training lay health workers. Of the 321,933 people screened by GCC-funded projects, 162,915 received treatment. Most projects focused on more than one disorder and exceeded all their targets for screening, diagnosis and treatment. Fewer people than intended were screened for common mental disorders and epilepsy (60% and 54%, respectively), but many more were diagnosed and treated than originally proposed (148% and 174%, respectively). In contrast, the three projects that focused on perinatal depression exceeded screening and diagnosis targets, but only treated 43% of their intended target. ConclusionsUnder- or over-achievement of targets may reflect operational challenges such as high staff turnover, or challenges in setting appropriate targets, for example due to insufficient epidemiological evidence. Differences in delivery outcomes when disaggregated by disorder suggest that these challenges are not universal. We caution implementers, funders and evaluators from taking a one-size-fits all approach and make several recommendations for how to facilitate more in-depth, multi-method evaluation of impact using portfolio-level ToC.
Eleutheroside-b and e in Acanthopanax Senticosus has Anti-PRV Activity via an Enhanced Body Immune Response in Vivo
Authors: Li Zuohua , Yu Xinglong , Zhang Bin
Published: October 2020

BackgroundAcanthopanax senticosus extract (Eleutheroside-b and e, Acanthopanax senticosus extract, AS) is a multi-functional medicine involving in antiviral response in rodents and humans. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is essential pathogens especially in swine farms. However, little is known about the biological functions of AS in vivo during PRV infection. MethodsIn order to confirm function of AS during PRV infection in vivo. We investigated that AS treatment (2mg/g, 4mg/g and 6mg/g) mice for 5 days affecting the mouse survival time during PRV infection. Furthermore, we investigated that AS treatment (4mg/g) mice for 1 day, 3 days and 5 days, respectively, affected the mouse survival time during PRV infection. We then treated mice with AS (4 mg/g) for 5 days and then challenged with PRV. Three days after PRV infection, we harvested mouse-samples to analyze PRV copies, performed pathological and immunohistochemical assays and the expression of immune-genes.ResultsWe found that AS treatment decreased the PRV copies and degree of pathological damage in mice brains and lungs. The AS treatment also stimulated a high level of IFN-γ, IL-2, and CCL-5 in the rodent serum, but suppressed IL-10 expression, suggesting that AS enhances the immunity response. Conclusionswe showed that AS promoted the anti-PRV ability in vivo by activating the expression of immunity genes. In summary, these findings offer a novel understanding of the immunity response during PRV infection.
Ceria Nanoparticles Ameliorate White Matter Injury After Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Microglia-astrocyte Involvement in Remyelination
Authors: Zheng Jingwei , Lu Jia‘nan , Mei Shuhao , Wu Haijian , Sun Zeyu , Fang Yuanjian , Xu Shenbin , Wang Xiaoyu , Shi Ligen , Xu Weilin , Chen Sheng , Yu Jun , Liang Feng , Zhang Jianmin
Published: October 2020

Background: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) can induce excess accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequently cause severe white matter injury. The process of oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) differentiation is orchestrated by microglia and astrocytes, and ROS also drives the activation of microglia and astrocytes. In light of the potent ROS scavenging capacity of ceria nanoparticles (CeNP), we aimed to investigate whether treatment with CeNP ameliorates white matter injury by modulating ROS-induced microglial polarization and astrocyte alteration. Methods: ICH was induced in vivo by collagenase VII injection in mice. Mice were administered with PLX3397 for depleting microglia. Primary microglia and astrocytes were used for in vitro experiments. Transmission electron microscopy analysis and immunostaining were performed to verify the positive effects of CeNP in remyelination and OPC differentiation. Flow cytometry, real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence and western blotting were used to detect microglia polarization, astrocytes alteration and the underlying molecular mechanisms.Results: CeNP treatment strongly inhibited ROS-induced NF-κB p65 translocation in both microglia and astrocytes, and significantly decreased the expression of M1 microglia and A1 astrocyte. Furthermore, we found that CeNP treatment promoted remyelination and OPC differentiation at 7 days and 21 days post ICH, and such effects were alleviated after microglial depletion. Interestingly, we also found that the number of mature oligodendrocytes was moderately enhanced in ICH + CeNP + PLX3397 treated mice compared to the ICH + Vehicle + PLX3397 group. Therefore, astrocytes might participate in the pathophysiological process. The subsequent phagocytosis assay indicated that A1 astrocyte highly expressed C3, which could bind with microglia C3aR and hinder microglial engulfment of myelin debris. This result further replenished the feedback mechanism from astrocytes to microglia. Conclusion: The present study reveals a new mechanism in white matter injury after ICH: ICH induces M1 microglia and A1 astrocyte through ROS-induced NF-κB p65 translocation that hinders OPC maturation. Subsequently, A1 astrocytes inhibit microglial phagocytosis of myelin debris via an astrocytic C3-microglial C3aR axis. Polyethylene glycol-CeNP treatment inhibits this pathological process and ultimately promotes remyelination. Such findings enlighten us that astrocytes and microglia should be regarded as a functional unit in future works.
Genome-wide Identification and Functional Analysis of the H3 Gene Family in Cotton
Authors: Youping ZHANG , Jia ZHANG , Qiaolian WANG , Simin Li , Dongyun ZUO , Hailiang CHENG , Javaria ASHRAF , Limin LV , Linglei KONG , Xiaoxu FENG , Yu JZ , song guoli
Published: October 2020

Background: Histones are major components of chromatin, which is a nucleosome structure associated with chromosome segregation, DNA packaging and transcriptional regulation. Histone H3 is encoded by many genes in most eukaryotic species, but little information is known about the Histone H3 gene family in cotton.Results: In this study, we identified and analyzed the evolution and expression of histone H3 gene family in cotton. First, 34 G. hirsutum genes were identified belonging to the H3 gene family which were divided into four subclasses: CENH3, H3.1, H3.3 and H3-like. Among these H3.1 subclass contained the highest number of genes (22 members) followed by H3.3 subclass (9 members). In addition, there were18 and 16 H3 genes identified in G. arboretum and G. raimondii, respectively. Furthermore, we conducted conserved sequence analysis of H3 proteins, and found that the four amino acids signature including A31F41S87A90 for H3.1 and T31Y41H87L90 for H3.3 could be used to discriminate H3.1 from H3.3. The expression of H3 gene family varied in different tissues and developmental stages of G. hirsutum, where H3.1 subclass genes play a critical role in pistil development. By virus-induced gene silencing of GhCENH3 (Gh_D07G1382) gene, the size of leaf got smaller with pYL156-CENH3 than that with pYL156 in TM-1. Whereas, the number of the stomata in the leaf epidermis and number of chloroplasts in the leaf stomatal guard cells by pYL156-CENH3 was more than that by pYL156 and pYL156-PDS.Conclusions: Four sub-classes (CENH3, H3.1, H3.3 and H3-like) of H3 gene family were highly conserved in cotton during the rapid phase of evolution among which CENH3 is necessary for leaf growth. These findings are useful for providing further insights into cotton biology and breeding.
Nucleolar protein 7 facilitates melanoma progression and metastasis via HIF-1ɑ/PI3K/AKT/ERK axis
Authors: Li Yumei , Chen Fan , Shen Weiyu , Li Bifei , Zheng Ning , Lu Yusheng , Katanaev Vladimir L. , Jia Lee
Published: October 2020

BackgroundMetastasis is the cause of most fatalities in cancer patients and is poorly understood. Discovery of the underlying determinant and regulatory networks implicated in the cancer cell metastasis is urgently needed. MethodsThe expression pattern of nucleolar protein 7 (NOL7) was examined by IHC in clinic melanoma samples. Loss-of-function in melanoma cells was achieved through siRNA and CRISPR/Cas9 system. Assays for proliferation, apoptosis and aggressiveness were performed for functional verification. Immunoblotting and qRT-PCR were used to measure the alterations in proteins and mRNA. Orthotopic xenograft nude mouse model was established to assess the effects of NOL7 on melanoma tumorigenicity and metastatic potential.ResultsNOL7 expression was increased with melanoma progression. Abrogation of NOL7 expression led to the dysfunction of malignant behaviors including proliferation, invasion, and anoikis-resistance of melanoma cells in vitro. Depletion of NOL7 expression suppressed melanoma growth and metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, NOL7 was found to be induced by HIF-1ɑ under hypoxic condition and inhibition of NOL7 reduced the phosphorylation of AKT and ERK protein. ConclusionThis study revealed the cancer-promoting activity of NOL7 in melanoma cells and identified a novel regulatory mechanism of HIF-1ɑ/NOL7/PI3K/AKT/ERK axis in melanoma. NOL7 can function as a novel alert marker and therapeutic target for melanoma treatment.
Application Of The Ultra-Poverty Graduation Model In Understanding Community Health Volunteers’ Preferences For Socio-Economic Empowerment Strategies: A Qualitative Study In Kilifi, Kenya
Authors: Nyanja Tabitha Alexandria Njeri , Nyamu Nelson Fundi , Nyaga Lucy , Chabeda Sophie , Lusambili Adelaide , Temmerman Marleen , Mantel Michaela , Ngugi Anthony
Published: October 2020

Background: There is a significant shortage of healthcare workforce globally. In order to achieve Universal Healthcare coverage, governments need to enhance their community-based healthcare provider programmes. Community health volunteers (CHVs) are essential personnel in achieving this objective, however their needs remain unmet hence their high attrition rates.Methods: This study adopted an exploratory mixed methods qualitative approach including Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Using a semi-structured questionnaire, out of the 17 Community Health Units (CHUs), we conducted 10 FGDs based on the number of CHUs in each of the two sub-counties, three from Rabai Sub-county and seven from Kaloleni Sub-county. We conducted 10 key-informant interviews from participants who included County and sub -county Ministry of Health (MOH) and Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) officials as well as multi-lateral stakeholders’ representatives from Kaloleni and Rabai sub-counties. Data was audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed using NVivo qualitative data software version 10. Researcher triangulation supported the first round of analysis of the data in this study. Data was mapped and findings interpreted using a theory driven analysis based on the Ultra-Poverty Graduation (UPG) model. Results: The results are presented using the Ultra Poverty Graduation (UPG) model, which involves a six-step intervention. It consists of the provision of asset transfer of an in-kind good such as poultry or livestock, weekly stipends with consumption support to stabilize consumption, hands-on training on how to care for assets and run a business, savings and financial support to build assets and instil financial discipline, healthcare provision and access and finally social integration.Conclusion: The results of this study provides a user-identified approach to identify and assess the strategic needs of CHVs for socio-economic empowerment. The study further applies a sustainable economic empowerment model to provide further understanding on how these needs can be addressed in order to enhance retention of CHVs.
The cryptic seismic potential of blind faults revealed by off-fault geomorphology, Pichilemu, Chile.
Authors: Jara-Muñoz Julius , Melnick Daniel , Socquet Anne , Cortés-Aranda Joaquin , Brill Dominik , Strecker Manfred
Published: October 2020

In seismically-active regions, mapping capable faults and estimating their recurrence time is the first step to assess seismic hazards. Fault maps are commonly based on geologic and geomorphic features evident at the surface; however, mapping blind faults and estimating their seismic potential is challenging because on-fault diagnostic features are absent. Here, we study the Pichilemu Fault in coastal Chile, unknown until it generated a M7.0 earthquake in 2010. The lack of evident surface faulting suggests a partly-hidden blind fault. Using off-fault deformed marine terraces, we estimate a slip-rate of 0.42 ± 0.04 m/ka, which when integrated with deformation estimated from satellite geodesy during the 2010 earthquake suggests a 2.5 ± 0.25 ka recurrence time for M6.6-6.9 extensional earthquakes. We propose that extension is associated with stress changes during megathrust earthquakes and accommodated by sporadic slip during upper-plate earthquakes. Our results have implications for assessing the seismic potential of cryptic faults along seismically-active coasts.
A Potential Peptide Inhibitor of SARS-CoV‑2 S and human ACE2 Complex.
Authors: Jaiswal Grijesh , Kumar Veerendra
Published: October 2020

The disease COVID-19 has caused heavy socio-economic burden and there is urgent need to control the SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) pandemic. The viral entry into human cell depends on the attachment of spike (S) protein to human cell receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). We have designed a peptide inhibitor (ΔABP- α2) targeting the receptor binding domain (RBD) of S protein using in silico approach. Docking studies and computed affinities suggest peptide inhibitor binds at the RBD with 10-fold higher affinity than hACE2. MD simulation confirm the stable binding of inhibitor to hACE2. Immunoinformatic studies non-immunogenic nature of peptide. Thus, the proposed peptide could serve potential therapeutics for viral infection.
Business Innovations for Unfolding Stratums of Human Development Indicators: a Worldwide Empirical Analysis
Authors: Sajjad Muhammad , Orangzab  , Chani Muhammad Irfan
Published: October 2020

Role of entrepreneurial innovations for human development is still invisible and subject to be investigated. This study uniquely unfolds the stratums of human development indicators caused by the activities of entrepreneurship. For this very purpose, the study utilizes the panel data of human development and entrepreneurship from 129 countries ranging for the years of 2016 to 2018. The human development has been measured through the human development index (HDI), and this data has been accessed from indicators of United nations development program (UNDP). The data of global entrepreneurial innovations (GEI) has been accessed from the global entrepreneurship and development index (GEDI). Both HDI and GEI comprised of composite indexes. GEI is the composite index with three sub-indices and 14 pillars. The three sub-indices are attitudes, abilities and aspiration. Out of 14 pillars opportunity perception, startup skills, risk acceptance, networking and cultural support are associated with attitudes. Opportunity startup, technology absorption, human capital and competition are associated with abilities while production innovation, process innovation, high growth, internationalization and risk capital are associated with aspiration. Although, the data of the HDI index was initially developed since 1990. However, due to non-availability of GEI data, only three years of panel data were included in the study. HDI comprised of three basic dimensions which include the knowledge, standard of living and healthy life. Based on the literature, the study hypothesized that global entrepreneurship positively affects human development worldwide. This proposed relationship was measured through generalized methods of moments through EViews. The data trend had been measured through a scatter diagram, before measuring the specific relationship among the major variables of the study. Through this test, normality of the data ad outliers was also checked. Data dispersion and linearity was checked through the test of standard residuals. After checking the appropriateness of data, parameters of the study were estimated. Results showed a strong and positive correlation between entrepreneurship and human development. By applying generalized methods of moments, the analysis revealed that entrepreneurial innovations could explain the 68 per cent variation in human development. So, it can be safely said that entrepreneurship is an important cause to enhance the capabilities of humans and can ultimately improve HDI worldwide. It is suggested that the nations who want to improve the skills, capabilities and living standards of humans in their respective regions should devise the strategies to promote the entrepreneurial activities.

Keywords
entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial ventures, human development indicators, global entrepreneurship development index, human development index, human capabilities, human skills, human capital.
USER SATISFACTION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM: CASE FOR AN EMERGING COUNTRY
Authors: Rouissi Chiraz
Published: October 2020

Every corporate always tries to set up an information system to meet its specific needs. Not long ago, information was synonymous with power. Thus, holding it was often seen as a positive value. Today it must not only irrigate the company but also spread within it, intended for customers, suppliers, stakeholders and even shareholders. This paper summarizes the use of the management software that automates all company functions and integrates all functionalities that are necessary for its man­agement and production. The main purpose of this article is to show a question on identifying corporate management to determine the potential impact of the information system and communication on the quality and the utility of the management of users' satisfaction. The object of research is 214 companies with different activities related to the information system and communication. Thus, in recent years the business environment has not stopped experiencing changes and mutations at all levels as economic, sociological or technological. In turn, the paramount importance granted by firms to information technology and communication to be able to face increased competition and thus improve their competitive positioning. The research empirically confirms and theoretically proves many advantages of this study. Therefore, informational benefits help companies to manage resources better, improve decision-making and planning and better perform in the company departments. The ERP systems can provide information benefits to management using their centralized database and their ability to analyze data. The availability of immediate information and above all, on a national or even international basis, becomes more than necessary. The results of the research can be useful for strategic advantages like ERP systems, with their internal and external integration capabilities. Moreover, they will help organizations to achieve these strategic benefits.

Keywords
corporate, information technology, enterprise resource planning, communication, quality and utility.
Innovations in Construction Waste Management: Case of Latvia
Authors: Tambovceva Tatjana , Urbane Valentina , Ievins Janis
Published: October 2020

The environmental concern has become the top trend nowadays and the ideas of environmental protection, green orientation and green innovation, highly concern from the last few decades in all research areas. The construction industry is one of those that has a very strong impact on the environment. Air, water, noise and vibration, as well as soil pollution caused during construction processes, negatively impact on the environment and its natural ecosystems, as well as on humans at a global level. Construction waste generated during the construction, renovation and demolition process occupies huge landfills due to significant volumes. It may also contain substances that are hazardous to the environment and human health. This paper summarizes the research results on the possibilities for more efficient construction waste management as well as the experience of companies operating in the construction sector with a purpose to reduce the causes of pollution. The data obtained within the framework of the survey on people’s understanding in the field of construction pollution and waste in Latvia have been analyzed. The main goal of the study is to present the main findings of the authors’ survey and to discuss the current construction waste management challenges and potential innovations in Latvia. The authors used the following research methods: literature review, analysis of statistical data; questionnaire creation and conduction a survey; interviews with waste management companies. The research was conducted during the period from October 2019 to July 2020. The obtained results showed that there was a huge potential for innovation because the current situation was far from ideal. The results of an empirical analysis demonstrated that the collection of sorted construction waste on construction sites currently was practically impossible, as the industry points to the human factor in the waste sorting process. Although the data obtained within the framework of the survey clearly indicated the interest of employees in sorting construction waste already on the construction site, waste industry companies currently consider such a practice impossible also due to the influence of other side factors related to economic considerations. It is necessary to develop a normative framework for the implementation of the construction waste certification system to promote the reuse of construction waste in construction as efficiently as possible.

Keywords
construction waste, management of technological innovation, environmental management, Latvia, sustainable development.
Water desalination, serum magnesium and dementia: a population-based study
Authors: Ben Zaken Sara , Simantov Or , Abenstein Avraham , Radomysky Zorian , Koren Gideon
Published: October 2020

Although dementia affects roughly 50 million people worldwide, its etiology is largely unknown. Recent studies have found a link between hypermagnesemia, hypomagnesemia, and increased risk of dementia. In this study, we explore the link between serum magnesium levels and the prevalence of dementia following the adoption of desalinated water (DSW) in Israel. DSW contains no magnesium, and relying on it for drinking water can lead to an increased incidence of hypomagnesia. Our objective was to analyze in a treat-control context how the switch to desalinated drinking water affected serum magnesium concentrations and the prevalence of dementia. We selected two cities which differed in terms of their access to underground aquifers but were otherwise similar. Rehovot has no underground water and uses over 90% DSW, whereas Kfar Saba relies almost entirely on its own aquifers. The cities are otherwise relatively similar in terms of their demographic composition. Using medical records for all subjects insured by the Maccabi Health Services in Rehovot (n = 23,991) and Kfar Saba (n = 20,541), we examined mean serum concentrations of Mg in the period prior to desalination (2001–2006) and post-desalination (2007–2018). Dementia prevalence is taken from 2007 to 2020 for the same coverage population. Serum magnesium levels were significantly lower in Rehovot following the switch to DSW (2.067 ± 0.21 pre-desalination and 2.059 ± 0.216 post-desalination, p < 0.01). In contrast, serum magnesium levels increased in Kfar Saba, which continued to rely on groundwater (2.008 ± 0.179 vs. 2.067 ± 0.206, p < 0.01). The prevalence of dementia was similar in the two cities (488/20,541, 2.37% in Rehovot and 613/23,991, 2.55% in Kfar Saba). In this ecological study, the adoption of DSW was associated with a significant decrease in serum magnesium concentrations. However, this change was not associated with a higher prevalence of dementia. While this association study cannot rule out some effect of hypomagnesemia on dementia morbidity, it suggests that the effect, if it exists, is relatively small.