bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.
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

Abstract
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 &lt; 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 &lt; 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.
Nitrate removal in potable groundwater by nano zerovalent iron under oxic conditions
Authors: Kodikara Jayanga , Gunawardana Buddhika , Jayaweera Mahesh , Sudasinghe Madhusha , Manatunge Jagath 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Groundwater pollution by nitrate contamination has become a significant issue in some areas of Sri Lanka, giving rise to health concerns and a dearth in good quality potable water. In this study, the effectiveness of nano zerovalent iron (nZVI) for the removal of nitrate in potable groundwater under oxic conditions was investigated to meet the drinking water quality standards stipulated by World Health Organization (WHO) and Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) (nitrate level &lt;50 mg/L). Under oxic conditions, the nZVI was synthesized and batch experiments were conducted using an artificial nitrate (150 mg/L) contaminated water sample. Our results corroborated that with an optimum nZVI dose of 1 g/L and optimum contact time of 30 minutes, 80% nitrate removal could be achieved and the remaining nitrate level was ≈ 30 mg/L as nitrate (&lt;50 mg/L), which was equivalent to ≈ 7 mg/L as nitrate–N (≈21% of the total–N). Ammonium ions were the main product of nitrate reduction by nZVI and at 30 minutes contact time, ≈ 20 mg/L of ammonium as ammonium–N was detected (≈ 59% of the total–N). Ammonia stripping took place under the basic solution pH (pH &gt; 9.5). At 30 minutes of contact time, ≈7 mg/L of ammonia as ammonia–N was accounted for ammonia stripping, which is 20% of the total–N. Ammonia stripping resulted in a decrease in nitrogen-containing species in the aqueous phase. The spent nZVI particles were recovered (99.9%) from the treated water using an external magnetic field. In conclusion, nZVI particles synthesized under oxic conditions are viable to successfully treat the nitrate-contaminated groundwater under aerobic conditions to reduce the nitrate levels to meet the WHO/SLSI drinking water quality standards.
Evolution of Peptide-Based Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) Inhibitors: An Approach to Novel Prostate Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Siow Andrew , Kowalczyk Renata , Brimble Margaret A. , Harris Paul W.R. 
Published: October 2020

Background:Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with approximately 1.1 million cases diagnosed annually. The rapid development of molecular imaging has facilitated greater structural understanding which can help formulate novel combination therapeutic regimens and more accurate diagnosis avoiding unnecessary prostate biopsies. This accumulated knowledge also provides greater understanding into aggressive stages of the disease and tumour recurrence. Recently, much progress has been made on developing peptidomimetic-based inhibitors as promising candidates to effectively bind to the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) which is expressed by prostate cancer cells.Objective:In this review, recent advances covering small-molecule and peptide-based PSMA inhibitors will be extensively reviewed, providing a base for the rational design of future PSMA inhibitors.Method:Herein, the literature on selected PSMA inhibitors that have been developed from 1996 to 2020 were reviewed, emphasizing recent synthetic advances and chemical strategies whilst highlighting therapeutic potential and drawbacks of each inhibitor.Results:Synthesized inhibitors presented in this review demonstrate the clinical application of certain PSMA inhibitors, exhibited in vitro and in vivo.Conclusion:This review highlights the clinical potential of PSMA inhibitors, analyzing the advantages and setbacks of the chemical synthetic methodologies utilized, setting precedence for the discovery of novel PSMA inhibitors for future clinical applications.
Bacterial Cellulose-Based Metallic Green Nanocomposites for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Badshah Munair , Ullah Hanif , Wahid Fazli , Khan Taous 
Published: October 2020

Background:
Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a microbial biosynthesized polymer having exceptional
physical and mechanical features as compared to plants derived cellulose. BC has a wide range of applications
such as traditional dessert as well as gelling, stabilizing and thickening agent in many foods. The more unconventional
applications of BC include but not limited to enzymes immobilization, tissue engineering, artificial
blood vessels and heart valve prosthesis, bone and cartilage regeneration, corneal replacement, skin tissues repair
and dental root canal treatment.

Objective:
This review presents the applications of BC expanded by preparing its nanocomposites with drugs,
fibres, metals and metallic oxides. These nanocomposites have been studied for applications in drug delivery
and biosensors.

Methods:
The current review focuses on the potential applications of BC-based green metallic and metal-based
inorganic nanocomposites as wound dressing material, a tool for microbial control, cardiovascular stenting, and
as bone tissue engineering material. In addition, the potential pharmaceutical applications of BC-based green
metallic nanocomposites have also been discussed.

Results:
The reported BC-based nanocomposites owe advantages in terms of stability, environment friendliness
and cost-effectiveness, prolonged therapeutic effects and biocompatibility with body tissues, with faster wound
healing and negligible cytotoxicity.

Conclusion:
The current review provides a deep insight into the assessment of such nanocomposites in terms
of useful applications and potential commercialization for pharmaceutical as well biomedical purposes.
Assessment of New E2 Protein Domain Interaction with PKR Protein to Control IFN Signaling
Authors: Dehghani Behzad , Hashempour Tayebeh , Musavi Zahra , Hasanshahi Zahra , Moayedi Javad , Merat Shahin 
Published: October 2020

Introduction:
Controversy exists regarding the impact of Phosphorylation Homology
Domain (PePHD) of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) E2 protein on the interruption of the antiviral signaling
pathway. A mechanism by which the virus evades the antiviral effect of interferon (IFN) alpha
involves protein kinase (PKR) eukaryotic Initiation Factor 2 alpha (eIF2a) PePHD. By binding to
PKR, PePHD inhibits its activity and, therefore, causes the virus to evade the antiviral activity of
IFN. This study aimed to clarify the inconsistency of different conclusions reached in previous
studies using reliable bioinformatics tools.

Methods:
Fifty-eight Iranian patients infected with HCV genotypes 1a and 3a and 58 healthy control
individuals were examined. Plasma viral RNA was used to amplify and sequence the HCV E2
gene; also, HCV viral load, genotyping, IL-28B genotyping, alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and
aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test were determined. Bioinformatics tools determined the physicochemical
properties, B-cell epitopes, post-modification changes, and secondary/tertiary structures,
and also evaluated the interactions between E2 and PePHD regions.

Results:
The results showed a new domain that is responsible for binding to PKR protein and is important
to the intrigued antiviral response. Physicochemical features and post-modifications were
defined, showing that E2 is highly phosphorylated and there were numerous possible disulfide
bonds. Secondary and tertiary structures for E2 protein were constructed. No significant relationship
between ALT and AST and treatment failure was detected.

Conclusions:
Docking analysis showed a new domain in E2 protein that can be involved in the interaction
between PKR and E2 protein. This finding may justify our results revealing the non-significant
relationship between mutations in PePHD and treatment failure.