bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of replication protein A3 is associated with unfavorable outcome in bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Sun Dingqi , Zhang Keqin , Fu Qiang , Zhang Hui , Liu Shuai , Wang Haoran , Xu Zhen , Wang Jinhua
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

The replication protein A3 (RPA3) is a subunit of the RPA protein complex, which plays an essential role in multiple processes of DNA metabolism. However, the involvement of RPA3 bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) prognosis has not yet been elucidated. The aim of our study is to investigate the prognostic role of RPA3 expression in patients with bladder UC.

Materials and Methods:

Bladder UC tissue specimens from 155 consecutively treated patients who underwent surgery between 2013 and 2018 were evaluated. The RPA3 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and correlated with clinicopathological parameters. The prognostic significance of RPA3 expression was explored using the univariate and multivariate survival analysis of 155 patients who were followed.

Results:

A total of 155 tissue specimens “of patients” who were regularly followed with the mean 39.6 months (from 4 to 71 months). The expression of RPA3 was significantly associated with tumor grade (P = 0.031) and stage (P = 0.021), as well as tumor size (P = 0.034). In univariate analysis, RPA3 overexpression showed an unfavorable influence on recurrence-free survival with statistical significance (P < 0.01). TNM stage and grade also showed strong statistical relation with adverse recurrence-free survival (P < 0.01, P = 0.030). Multivariate analysis revealed that grade, stage, and RPA3 reactivity (P = 0.025, P < 0.01, P = 0.016) were identified as independent prognostic factors for recurrence-free survival in patients with bladder UC.

Conclusions:

These results of this study proved that elevated expression of RPA3 was associated with worse clinical outcome in bladder UC patients. This finding suggested that RPA3 served as a potential prognostic biomarker, which could be useful to predict cancer evolution and may represent a novel therapeutic target for the intervention of bladder UC patients.
Detection significance of miR-3662, miR-146a, and miR-1290 in serum exosomes of breast cancer patients
Authors: Li Sha , Zhang Meng , Xu Feng , Wang Ying , Leng Dong
Published: July 2021

Context:

The potential relationship between exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) and clinical symptoms in breast cancer patients and the expression levels of exosomal miRNAs in patients undergoing surgery and chemotherapy are still unclear.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to explore the correlation among exosomal miRNAs and clinical features and treatment in breast cancer patients.

Materials and Methods:

First, exosomes were isolated from the serum of patients with breast cancer and healthy controls. Next, the features of exosomes were identified by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and Western blot assays. Then, we detected the expression of the top-ranked miRNAs (miR-3662, miR-16-1, miR-146a, miR-1290, and miR-29c) in sixty breast cancer patients and twenty healthy controls using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The differential expression was measured by the Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:

The relative expression of miR-3662, miR-146a, and miR-1290 in serum exosomes was significantly higher in patients than healthy controls. Moreover, significant differences were found in the lymph node metastasis and clinical stage of breast cancer as the miRNA levels changed, but their expression levels in exosomes and sera were not correlated. In addition, exosomal miR-3662, miR-146a, and miR-1290 were shown to be valuable biomarkers to monitor patient condition in the course of surgery and chemotherapy.

Conclusions:

Exosomal miR-3662, miR-146a, and miR-1290 may have promising predictive value and could be utilized as biomarkers for diagnosis and preventative strategy development.
Trans-jugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in patients with hepatic cellular carcinoma
Authors: Dong Hong , Zhang Cunjing , Li Zheng , Yang Haiyan , Wang Yongzheng , Liu Jibing , Liu Bin , Mao Shuzhi
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

To analyze the effects of trans-jugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) on portal hypertension and liver function in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Materials and Methods:

Thirteen patients with hemorrhage caused by portal hypertension and HCC who received TIPS and antitumor treatment were retrospectively analyzed. Trans-arterial chemoembolization, microwave ablation, target therapy, and immunetherapy or combined therapy were performed to treat HCC. Child-Pugh score was applied to estimate liver functions before and after TIPS. Shunting patency, overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival were analyzed.

Results:

The median age was 58 (interquartile range: 52.5–62.5) years. The ratio with ascites before and after TIPS was 84.6% (11/13) and 7.7% (1/13), with P < 0.001. The ratio with Child-Pugh A before and after TIPS were 61.5% (8/13) and 84.6% (11/13) respectively, with P = 0.179. Mean portal vein pressure before and after TIPS was 27.85 ± 7.02 mmHg and 16.23 ± 6.61 mmHg, respectively, with P = 0.001. Two-year shunting patency rate was 61.5%. Median OS was 29.8 ± 11.5 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 22.8–36.7), and median progression-free survival was 20.2 ± 13.2 months (95% CI 12.2–28.1).

Conclusion:

TIPS could reduce ascites, down-regulate the Child-Pugh score, and give a chance for further anti-tumor therapy.
The Outcome of the Online Virtual Classes During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Albeladi Fatma Ibrahim , Yousof Shimaa Mohammad , Omar Nesreen Nabil , Tash Reham Fathy
Published: July 2021

Background:

COVID-19 pandemic has affected the educational process greatly in the academic year 2019–2020. Therefore, this warranted an urgent and effective shift and intervention toward the online teaching practice.

Aim:

We have aimed in this study to assess the impact of the necessary shift of the educational process of the basic sciences toward the online distant learning in the female campus; Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University.

Subjects and Methods:

Promptly shift toward the online teaching practice through virtual classrooms for the 2nd and 3rd year students was accomplished during the second term of the academic year 2019–2020. Following that, we analyzed the efficacy of this shift qualitatively through focus group discussions with the students and the staff members. For objective assessment, we analyzed and compared the students' results of the second term of the academic years 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 regarding the same modules.

Results:

The results of the students were not negatively affected during the pandemic hit. Conversely, the results improved in the basic science modules, and no significant difference was found in the clinically-oriented genetic module.

Conclusion:

The significant move toward the online virtual classrooms did not affect the teaching and learning process negatively. Contrarily, the online teaching and learning practice have proved to be a decent alternative if applied on a sound basis during emergencies and thus is promising as an adjuvant method in the educational process in the ordinary circumstances.
Dendritic Cell-Based Immunotherapies and their Potential use in Colorectal Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Aldahlawi Alia M. , Abdullah Samaa Taha
Published: July 2021

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen-presenting cells, which are resident or proliferating in organs. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class I and II on DCs in normal steady conditions process and present antigens including cancer antigens. Many approaches are used to enhance antigen presentation process of DCs and capture cancer cells. DCs are harvested from cancer patients and manipulated ex vivo in DC-based cancer immunotherapy. In addition, DCs' vaccines and other anticancer therapy combinations were discussed to optimize DCs' efficiency for cancer immunotherapy. This review addressed the use of the human conventional type-1 DCs, OX40+ plasmacytoid DCs, and DCs-derived exosomes. In addition, different combinations with DCs therapy such as combination with the monoclonal antibody, cytokine-induced killer cells, adjuvants, chemotherapy (DCs-based chemoimmunotherapy), and nanoparticles were listed and explored for their effectiveness against cancer, and mainly against colorectal cancer.
Mothers’ knowledge and experience concerning presurgical orthopedic management for infants with cleft lip and palate
Authors: Abid Mushriq , Al-Groosh Dheaa , Dziedzic Arkadiusz , Abed Hassan
Published: July 2021

OBJECTIVES:

The present study aimed to assess the level of mothers’ knowledge toward cleft lip and palate and their experience concerning presurgical orthopedic management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study where the mothers were invited to complete a self-administered validated and reliable questionnaire. The questionnaire included questions that aimed to assess mother's knowledge related to the most prevalent aspects of cleft lip and palate anomaly itself and additionally, questions associated with presurgical orthopedic treatment as an adjunct therapy. Descriptive statistics were used to define the characteristics of the study variables. Chi-square test was utilized to assess relationships between categorical variables.

RESULTS:

Totally, 145 mothers completed the survey (response rate was 73%). Forty-six (46%) of the mothers provided an incomplete or improper definition of the anomaly and 35 (24%) claimed that they know the cause of the anomaly. The majority of mothers did not identify family history as a risk factor; consanguinity was identified in 29% (n = 42). Of the total, 58 mothers (40%) agreed that dental management of CLP requires teamwork and the majority (n = 126, 87%) recognized the plastic surgeon as the most important specialist. Mothers aged 20-30 years old (n = 42, 53%), and those who are university graduates (n = 38, 48%), as well as employed mothers (n = 52, 66%) have in general a higher degree of knowledge regarding cleft lip and palate (P < 0.001). More than half of the mothers (n = 70, 57%) reported that presurgical orthopedic treatment was useful and needed for their infants.

CONCLUSIONS:

Most of the mothers reported a high level of knowledge about cleft lip and palate and they experienced the usefulness of the orthopedic appliances for their infants. However, there was uncertainty in some parts such as definition, diagnosis, causes, and risk factors for cleft lip and palate. Therefore, understanding the causes of cleft lip and palate, as well as comprehensive education concerning the essential role of the orthopedic appliances to improve cleft lip and palate are crucial for mothers to improve their infants’ quality of life.
Effect of different bleaching treatment protocols on shear bond strength of bonded orthodontic brackets with no-primer adhesive resin
Authors: Sadeghian Saeid , Garavand Shirin , Davoudi Amin
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUNDS:

Bleaching procedure can be companied before, during, or after orthodontic treatments. However, the risk of compromised bond strength of brackets to bleached enamels is in debate. This study tried to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) of bonded metal brackets to the previously bleached enamels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this in vitro study, 60 extracted, sound, human premolars were mounted vertically in cylindrical molds. The samples were randomly divided into four groups (n = 15): Control (C); at-home bleached by 20% carbamide peroxide (HB); in-office bleached by 45% carbamide peroxide (OB); and in-office bleached by 40% hydrogen peroxide activated with diode laser (L-OB). Sixty stainless steel brackets were bonded by no-primer adhesive resin (OrthoCem). Then SBS of bonded brackets was measured after 5000 thermal cycles at 5°C and 55°C. Finally, the collected data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, and Tukey HSD tests by using SPPS software at a significant level of 0.05 (α = 0.05).

RESULTS:

Group C showed significantly higher SBS values (all P < 0.001); however, there were no significant differences in SBS compared to other tests' groups with each other (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

The SBS of bonded orthodontic brackets were compromised after bleaching with 20% and 40% of carbamide peroxide. Diode laser activation may not eliminate the negative effect of bleaching agents on SBS of bonded orthodontic brackets, neither.
Effect of preeclampsia and premature rupture of membrane on neonatal birth weight and length by gestational age
Authors: Nawsherwan  , Khan Abbas , Mubarik Sumaira , Nabi Ghulam , Fan Cuifang , Wang Suqing
Published: July 2021

Background:

Preeclampsia (PE) and premature rupture of membrane (PROM) are considered significant risk factors for lower neonatal birth weight and birth length. However, very limited studies have reported the impact of PE and PROM on neonatal birth weight and birth length by gestational week. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effect of PE and PROM on neonatal birth weight and length by gestational age.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 9707 singleton neonates were selected for this study. All the data were collected and documented in the obstetric register by the trained nurses in the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department.

Results:

The neonatal mean birth weights and birth lengths were statistically significantly (P < 0.05) lowered among preeclamptic mothers compared to mothers without PE throughout the gestational age. Statistically significantly (P < 0.05) lowered mean birth weights and birth lengths were found among neonates born to mothers with PROM than among neonates born to mothers without PROM by all gestational weeks except for 32 weeks and 36 weeks. Moreover, in a multiple linear regression model, PE and PROM were significantly negatively associated with neonatal birth weights and birth lengths by almost all gestational weeks (β <0, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

We concluded that after adjustment for covariates and confounding factors, PE and PROM had a significantly negative association with neonatal birth weights and birth lengths by all gestational weeks.
Copper deficiency-induced pancytopenia after taking an excessive amount of zinc formulation during maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Marumo Atsushi , Yamamura Takuya , Mizuki Taro , Tanosaki Sakae , Suzuki Ken
Published: July 2021

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) has been recognized as an effective way in the treatment of anemia due to chronic kidney disease, but we sometimes see intractable hemodialysis (HD) patients. The causes of ESA-resistant anemia in HD patients include deficiency of trace elements. We report the case of an 89-year-old male who developed pancytopenia after taking an excessive amount of zinc formulation for ESA-resistant anemia during maintenance dialysis. He was prescribed zinc acetate hydrate formulation about 6 months before his presentation. He was found to have pancytopenia 1 month before his presentation, at which point he was introduced to our hospital. We suspected a copper deficiency at the first visit and stopped zinc and added copper, and his condition subsequently improved without being handicapped. Zinc antagonizes copper, so we must take care to diagnose patients ingesting zinc supplements.
Assessment of pain between sedated and unsedated colonoscopy
Authors: Shavakhi Ahmad , Khodadoostan Mahsa , Shariaat Nabavi Seid Javad , Sadeghian Sina , Gholamrezaei Ali , Shavakhi Alireza
Published: July 2021

Background:

Colonoscopy plays a vital role for the diagnosis and treatment of colonic diseases but can be associated with anxiety and discomfort or pain. We tested whether unsedated colonoscopy impacts quality indicators and investigated predictors of pain during colonoscopy.

Materials and Methods:

This randomized controlled trial was performed on candidates for elective colonoscopy at AL Zahra Hospital, Isfahan at 2018–2019. Balanced block randomization was used to allocate 275 cases into two groups. At finally, 124 patients in case and 122 patients in control group enrolled in analysis. Patients in the sedation group received midazolam with/out pethidine before colonoscopy. Pain intensity in rectal examination (PIREX), preprocedural anxiety, pain intensity during colonoscopy, hemodynamics, duration of colonoscopy, polyp detection rate, cecal intubation rate, bloating within 24 h after colonoscopy, and willingness to repeat colonoscopy were assessed and compared between two groups.

Results:

Compared to the group with sedation, cecal intubation time was shorter and bloating was less frequent (7% vs. 16%, P = 0.02) in the unsedated group. There was no difference between the two groups regarding polyp detection rate, cecal detection rate, and willingness to repeat colonoscopy. Pain during rectal examination was significantly associated with pain during colonoscopy (P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval; 0.5–1.3).

Conclusion:

The assessment of pain intensity during rectal examination may help to identify patients who can benefit from sedation during colonoscopy. Colonoscopy with sedation does not seem to have a negative impact on colonoscopy quality indicators, and may even reduce cecal intubation time and bloating following procedure.
Clinical manifestation, laboratory and radiology finding, treatment and outcomes of COVID-19
Authors: Nayeri Nahid Dehghan , Nadali Javad , Divani Anahita , Basirinezhad Mohammad Hasan , Meidani Mohsen
Published: July 2021

Background:

Since December 2019, coronavirus (COVID-19) spread throughout the world. The high rate of infection and its unknown nature led specialists to report the condition of patients. The aim of this study is to systematically review of symptoms, laboratory and radiologic findings, treatment, and outcomes of patients with COVID-19.

Materials and Methods:

Databases such as PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane were searched. Finally, 46 articles were appropriate for the aim of the study. After quality evaluation, the necessary data were extracted and meta-analysis was performed.

Results:

4858 articles were retrieved until March 30, 2020. After screening, the full-text of 46 articles was assessed. Of the reported cases, 31.7% had no comorbidities, 21.4% had high blood pressure, 70.6% had fever, and lymphopenia was reported in 55.2% of patients. For 16% bilateral patchy shadowing in radiography and for 51% ground-glass opacity was reported. Outcomes were remarkable for recover to death.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 leads to healthcare problems for countries. Nonspecific symptoms have made it difficult for differential diagnoses without computed tomography-scan or corona Test, but they are not available in many countries. Therefore, this systematic review can help health care staff to make decisions based on symptoms, treatments, and outcomes..
First Molecular Record and Distribution of Padina pavonica (Linnaeus) Thivy from the Southern Black Sea
Authors: Gümüş Fatih , Gönülol Arif
Published: July 2021

Padina is a brown algal genus widely distributed in warm-temperate and tropical regions. Species-level identification of specimens is often difficult due to intraspecific and interspecific morphological plasticity. This study reveals the results of the phylogenetic relationships of specimens, by analyzing the cytochrome oxidase subunit 3 (Cox3) and RuBisCO large subunit (rbcL) gene sequences. A total of 144 new sequences were analyzed together with other Padina sequences obtained from GenBank. Phylogenetic inference identified one well-resolved clade. All of these analyses showed that this genus has only one species in the Black Sea. This is the first study on the molecular diagnosis of macroalgae in the Black Sea, and it contains the first molecular records of Padina in the Black Sea Region.
Hepato-toxicological and lipid profile of male Wistar rats following chronic carbamazepine, gabapentin, and carbamazepine-gabapentin adjunctive treatment
Authors: Osuntokun O.S. , Oladokun O.O. , Adedokun K.I. , Atere T.G. , Olayiwola G. , Ayoka A.O.
Published: July 2021

Aim: This study evaluated the hepatotoxicity and lipid profiles of male Wistar rats following chronic carbamazepine (CBZ), gabapentin (GBP) and carbamazepine-gabapentin (CBZ+GBP) adjunctive treatment.

Methods: Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were randomized into 4 groups (n = 7) to receive daily oral administration of normal saline (0.2ml), or CBZ (25 mg/kg), or GBP (50 mg/kg), or the sub-therapeutic dose of CBZ (12.5 mg/kg) and GBP (25 mg/kg) combination for 56 days. Thereafter, blood and liver homogenate were subjected to biochemical analysis, while liver tissues were processed for the histomorphological investigation. Data were analysed statistically, while p< 0.05 was taken as level of significance.

Results: Activities of alanine phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase significantly increased in the CBZ and CBZ + GBP treated rat.  CBZ and CBZ + GBP treatments increased the plasma concentration of low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol. The liver concentration of malondialdehyde increased significantly in all the treated groups relative to control. There were severe vascular congestions in theliver of the CBZ treated rats, this was moderate in the GBP and CBZ + GBP treated rats.

Conclusion: Chronic use of CBZ may induce hepatotoxicity and lipid profile derangement, GBP and CBZ + GBP adjunctive treatment may be saver than treatment with CBZ.
Respiratory symptoms and pulmonary functions of firefighters in Ogun State, Nigeria: A preliminary report
Authors: Ogunkoya J.O. , Ehioghae O.
Published: July 2021

Objectives: This study was done to determine the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and abnormal respiratory functions as well as the association between the respiratory functions and the duration of employment among fire fighters in Ogun State, Nigeria.Methods: Forty seven (47) fire fighters were included in this study. Data was collected with MRCQ questionnaire and Spirometry was done with Spirolab III. Data collected was analyzed using IBM-SPSS 20.Results: The mean age in this study was 44.09 ± 6.89 years. 43 (91.5%) were male while 4 (8.5%) were females. 46.8% and 48.9% had cough and breathlessness respectively. 44.7% had been firefighters for 21-25 years while 70.2% work 21-30-hours/week. Spirometry was normal in 37(78.7%), obstructive in 8(17%) and restrictive in 2(4.3%).Conclusion: The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was high in the firefighters in this study. Cough and breathlessness were the most reported symptoms. Majority of the firefighters had normal spirometry.
The prevalence of anxiety symptoms and associated factors among Nigerians newly posted for National Youth Service Corps programme in North-Western Nigeria
Authors: Amoko A. , Ayodapo A.O. , Dele T.O. , Abitare H.
Published: July 2021

Objectives: This study was done to determine the prevalence of anxiety symptoms and assess the associated factors among new  members of national youth service corps (NYSC) programme in North-Western Nigeria.Method: A clinic-based descriptive cross-sectional study with convenient sampling method using selfadministered questionnaires was done among 157, 2018 Batch-C, corps members at Dakingari orientation camp in Kebbi State, over a period of three weeks. The prevalence of anxiety symptoms was determined using anxiety subset of Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale. Data were analyzed with SPSS-16 andChi-square was used to assess the degree of association between anxiety symptoms and certain factors. Pvalue of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: The prevalence of anxiety symptoms was 50.0% among the respondents. There was a significant association between the presence of anxiety symptoms and age of the respondents (P-value= 0.006).Conclusion: The high prevalence of anxiety symptoms among the new NYSC members suggests the need to take preventive measures such as incorporation of subjects on what should be expected during service year into the undergraduate learning curriculum. Doctors attending to youth corps members, especially when on camp, should routinely screen them for anxiety symptoms.
Yeast sludge and its components ameliorate ochratoxin Ainduced toxicity in broiler chicks
Authors: Mujahid Huma , Hashmi Abu Saeed , Khan Muhammad Zargham , Tayyab Muhammad , Shehzad Wasim
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the protective effect of yeast sludge (YS) and its components against ochratoxin A (OTA) in broiler chicks.

Methods: Ochratoxin A (OTA) was produced through solid state fermentation, and quantified using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). A total of 1250 one-day old broiler chicks of Arbreaker breed were randomly assigned to five diet groups (A - E) replicated five times in such a way that each replicate had 50 chicks. The five diet groups were: A (normal poultry feed), B (200 µg/kg OTA), C (200 µg/kg OTA plus 2 g/kg YS), D (200 µg/kg OTA plus 2 g/kg yeast sludge cell mass, YSCM), and E (200 µg/kg OTA plus 2 g/kg yeast sludge cell wall (YSCW). The study lasted 35 days. Indices of liver and kidney functions were determined, as well as histopathological examination of samples of kidney, liver and bursa of Fabricius.

Results: Supplementation of chicks diet with OTA at a dose of 200 ppb significantly reduced serum levels of total protein (TP), albumin, and creatinine, but significantly raised the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p < 0.05). However, inclusion of YS, YSCM, and YSCW in OTA-contaminated diet significantly reversed the effect of OTA on the indices of liver and kidney functions (p < 0.05). Yeast sludge and its components also significantly ameliorated OTA-induced histological changes in the liver, kidney and bursa of Fabricius.

Conclusion: These results indicate that YS and it components improve hepatorenal function and histological changes induced by OTA.
Simultaneous determination of four active pharmaceuticals in tablet dosage form by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Bachute Madhusudan T. , Shanbhag Sunil V. , Turwale Shankar L.
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To develop a single, low-cost and rapid analytical method for the simultaneous determination of four active components - chlorpheniramine maleate, paracetamol, phenylephrine hydrochloride and caffeine – in a tablet dosage form.

Method: This method was based on reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RPHPLC) and involved the use of a C-18 column (250 × 4.6 mm, 5.0 μm), a mobile phase consisting of buffer solution and methanol at a flow rate of 1.00 mL/min, and gradient determination with UV detection at 220 nm.

Results: Retention time was 4.33, 10.36, 13.85, and 17.35 min for phenylephrine hydrochloride, paracetamol, caffeine, and chlorpheniramine maleate, respectively. Specificity data showed no interference from the excipients, and accuracy of the method was close to 100 %. The method was validated as per the guidelines of International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH), and all the results met the acceptance criteria for accuracy, precision, linearity, specificity, limit of quantitation, limit of detection, and robustness.

Conclusion: This method can successfully perform quantitative assessment of phenylephrine HCl, chlorpheniramine maleate, paracetamol, and caffeine in tablet combination dosage forms faster and more cost-effectively than conventional methods.
Effect of early exogenous supplementation of rhIGF-1 on oxygen-induced retinopathy in a mice model of prematurity, and on expressions of IGF-1 and VEGF
Authors: Wu Xiangjun , Ye Hui , Cai Qiao , Cai Qiao , Ke Yuanxiang , Wang Danying
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of early exogenous supplementation of recombinant human insulinlike growth factor (rhIGF-1) on oxygen-induced mouse model of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

Methods: Three groups of healthy SPF grade C57BL/6 mice were used in this study, with 20 mice in each group. Hyperoxia saline (HS) and hyperoxia rhIGF-1 (HrGF) groups were placed in a closed oxygen chamber for one week and returned to the normal environment on the 15th day. The hyperoxia rhIGF-1 (HrGF) group was intraperitoneally injected with rhIGF-1 (1.5 mg/kg), while mice in high-oxygen saline (HS) group received normal saline. The air group (AG) was untreated. Changes in retinal blood vessel distributions, expression levels of serum IGF-1 and VEGF, and retinal IGF-1 and VEGF were determined.

Results: On day 20, pronounced neo-vascularization was observed, but the distribution was disordered. Serum IGF-1 levels in AG and HrGF were significantly higher than that in HS group, but VEGF level was lower in HS mice (p < 0.05). VEGF level in hyperoxia rhIGF-1 group on days 11 and 15 decreased, relative to control value, while retinal IGF-1 and VEGF in AG and hyperoxia rhIGF-1 mice were elevated, relative to corresponding values in HS mice (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Early exogenous supplementation of rhIGF-1 exerts a therapeutic effect on ROP. Thus, rhIGF-1 may be a potential drug regimen for ROP in clinics.
Anti-hyperglycemic effect of Vicia ervilia (L.) Willd (Fabaceae) seed extract and its effect on lipid profile, and hepatic and renal biomarkers in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Kartal Derya , Özok Necati
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of Vicia ervilia (L.) Willd (Fabaceae) lyophilized extract on various biomarkers of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Methods: Adult male rats (36) were divided into 6 groups, viz, normal control (NC), diabetes control (DC), and treatment groups. Experimental diabetes was induced with streptozotocin. Blood samples were taken from the tail veins daily for 25 days. Fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels of rats were determined. The rats were sacrificed and blood, kidney and liver were taken for biochemical analysis.

Results: Blood glucose decreased in DC groups compared to NC group (p ≤ 0.05). In diabetic extract groups, glycated Hb decreased compared to DC group (p ≤ 0.05). Alpha glucosidase activity was reduced in all treatment groups compared to DC group (p ≤ 0.05). Only triglyceride levels of diabetes extract (400 mg/mL) group decreased compared to DC (p ≤ 0.05). Total cholesterol levels fell compared to NC and DC groups (p ≤ 0.05). Low density lipoprotein was lower compared to NC (p ≤ 0.05), while aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels rose in diabetic extract groups compared to NC, but fell in some diabetic extract groups compared to DC group (p ≤ 0.05). Lactate dehydrogenase decreased in all diabetic extract groups compared to NC and DC (p ≤ 0.05). Serum urea and creatinine levels were higher in diabetic extract groups compared to NC, but decreased in DC group (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that Vicia ervilia lyophilized extract haas positive effects on blood glucose and biochemical parameters in diabetic rats compared to DC of V. ervilia seed extract.
Effect of bazedoxifene on expressions of VEGF, VEGFR2, COX-2 and inflammatory factors in a rat endometriosis model
Authors: Hou Rui , Xu Hao , Li Hui
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To study the effect of bazedoxifene on the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (sVEGFR2), cyclooxygenase synthase 2 (COX-2) and inflammatory factors in a rat endometriosis (EMS) model.

Methods: Thirty rats (EMS) were divided into untreated control group, bazedoxifene group and celecoxib group (10 rats per group). Bazedoxifene and celecoxib were administered at doses of 3 and 25 mg/kg, respectively. Negative control rats served as control, and were given 0.9 % sodium chloride at a dose of 10 mL/kg. All treatments were given intragastrically for 21 days. Levels of VEGF, sVEGFR2 and COX-2 in uterine ectopic endometrium were assayed.

Results: The levels of VEGF and sVEGFR2 in the serum and peritoneal fluid of the untreated control group were significantly higher than the corresponding control values, while VEGF and sVEGFR2 levels in the serum and peritoneal fluid of the bazedoxifene group were significantly lower than those in the untreated control group (p < 0.05). Bazedoxifene group had lower VEGFR2 and COX-2 levels than untreated control group (p < 0.05). Expression of COX-2 protein in the ectopic endometrium of celecoxib group was significantly lower than that in the untreated control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Bazedoxifene alleviates angiogenesis and inflammatory factors in serum and peritoneal fluid of EMS rats, inhibits the expression of sVEGFR2 and COX-2 in ectopic endometrium, and also inhibits the growth of ectopic endometrium. This finding may help to discover additional new drugs.
Curcumin exhibits therapeutic effect against spinal cord injury via inhibition of neuronal inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: Xiao Wei , Chen Xuewu , Wang Yijun , Chang Jianzhong , Zhao Zufa , Pan Guangjie
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of curcumin on spinal cord injury (SCI) in a rat model.

Methods: SCI was induced in the rats using mid thoracic spinal cord compression, after which curcumin was injected intraperitoneally. Western blotting was used for assay of expressions of apoptotic proteins, viz, IL-1β, NF-κB p65, TLR4, TNF-α, LC3, Bax and Bcl-2. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase were measured using standard methods. Neuronal loss in spinal cord tissues was determined with TUNEL staining and NeuN labelling.

Results: Curcumin treatment significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed SCI-mediated upregulation of myeloperoxidase activity and increase in MDA level in rat spinal cord. The reduction of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the spinal cord of SCI rats were suppressed by curcumin treatment. Curcumin treatment also led to a significant (p < 0.02) increase in the proportion of NeuN positive cells and marked reduction in TUNEL positive cells, but it decreased caspase-3 in the spinal cord tissues of SCI rats. Moreover, curcumin reversed the effect of SCI on protein expressions of Bax and Bcl 2 in a dose-based manner. There was marked curcumin-induced decline in CD11b and GFAP levels in the spinal cord tissues of the SCI rats.

Conclusion: These results demonstrate that curcumin protects rats against SCI via inhibition of oxidative stress-mediated neuronal apoptosis. Therefore, curcumin may be useful for the development of an effective treatment for spinal cord injury.
Effect of α-momordicine on proliferation and apoptosis of liver cancer, and its associated mechanisms of action
Authors: Yang Mei , Jin Wen , Shi Wei , Wang Bo , Li Qing , Guan Chunfeng
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of α-momordicine (α-MMC) on liver cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis, and to elucidate the mechanisms of action involved.

Methods: In in vitro experiments, hepatoma cell lines were used, while nude mice with hepatocellular carcinoma were used for in vivo studies. Cancer cell proliferation was determined using MTT assay while apoptosis was assayed by flow cytometry and TUNNEL staining. Gene expression was determined with real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), while protein expression levels were assayed by Western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence.

Results: Alpha-MMC decreased HCC cell viability dose-dependently (p < 0.05). In HepG2 cells, G2/M cell cycle was halted after 48 h intervention with 1.24 mg/mL α-MMC. However, at G0/G1 phase, αMMC at doses of 1.06 and 0.92 mg/mL caused cell cycle arrest of HCC-LM3 and SMMC-7721 cells. In vivo studies showed that after establishment of the nude mice liver cancer model, exposure to α-MMC at a dose of 0.70 mg/kg or 2.08mg/kg for 4 weeks reduced the size of liver cancer in the treatment group, relative to control group; mean diameter of liver cancer decreased from 2.16 to 0.51 cm, while mean volume decreased from 1.185 to 0.085 cm3 . Moreover, α-MMC increased apoptosis level in liver cancer tissues in nude mice, and down-regulated the expressions of P-AKT, RAGE, MMP-9 and HMGB1, but upregulated Bax/Bcl2 ratio (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: α-MMC inhibits cancer cell growth and proliferation, and facilitates their apoptosis by positively regulating the ratio of Bax/Bcl2. The anti-liver cancer effect of α-MMC is mediated via HMGB1-RAGE and AKT signaling pathways
Effect of amber powder on endometrial ultrastructure and MAPK pathway in endometriosis model rats
Authors: Ma Xiaona , Wu Yanhui , Li Bingbing , Wang Zheng , Zhu Xiujuan , Jia Jing , Liu Yanfeng
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To explore the therapeutic role of amber powder in endometriosis by investigating its effect on endometrial ultrastructure, ERK1/2, p38MAPK, and NF-κB mRNA pathways and CSRC/EFR/ERK1/2 proteins.

Methods: Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into blank group, disease model group (untreated), amber powder high-dose group, amber powder medium-dose group, amber powder lowdose group and danazol group. Morphological changes in endometrial cells were studied using transmission electron microscopy. The expression of ERK1/2, p38MAPK, and NF-κB mRNA in endometrial tissues of each group was determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Immunohistochemistry was utilized for the measurement of C-SRC/EFR/ERK1/2 pathway protein expression.

Results: The endometriosis rats treated with a high-, medium- and low-dose amber powder showed a decrease in the volume of ectopic lesions, compared with the untreated disease model group. The expressions of ERK1/2, p38MAPK, NF-κB mRNA, and C-SRC/EFR/ERK1/2 protein were higher in the eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues in untreated disease group than those in normal control group. Moreover, treatment of endometriosis rats with amber powder revealed a reduction in the expressions of ERK1/2, p38MAPK, NF-κB mRNA and C-SRC/EFR/ERK1/2 proteins in eutopic and ectopic endometrium tissues.

Conclusion: Amber powder reduces ectopic lesions and slows down the development of endometriosis, probably via inhibition of MAPK pathway genes in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues.
Trade Protectionism and Border Closure in Nigeria: The Rice Economy in Perspective
Authors: Ugwuja Alex Amaechi , Chukwukere Chimdi
Published: July 2021

Rice is one of those staples that Nigerians cannot do without; several tonnes of rice are consumed by Nigerians on daily basis. Yet its domestic cultivation and processing are largely ignored by a greater percentage of ordinary Nigerians. Although scholars have produced fascinating studies on both the domestic production of rice, its international trade, and the border closures that are contrived to facilitate local production, there is scarcely any serious scholarly effort that attempts to examine Nigeria’s rice economy from the political-economic perspective, especially with attention on the gainers and losers during periods of border closures in Nigeria. This study intervenes in the discourse by focusing on the political-economic implications of Nigeria's rice economy. The major thrust of the research is to discover how far the trade protectionist efforts of the governments of Nigeria impact the domestic economy. In essence, it seeks to discover the gainers and losers of Nigeria's border closures.
Clause Structure and Word Order in Ákè
Authors: Jayeola Waheed Ayisa
Published: July 2021

Ákè is by historical and linguistic facts a dialect of Edo which has not received significant linguistic attention. This neglect informs an inquiry into the in ternal structure and organization of its basic clause. This paper studies data of everyday usage of competent speakers of Ákè and argues that it displays a subject-verb-object order. The study provides a not too elaborate description of the nominal and verbal constructions in Ákè and reduces the description to analysis using the X-bar theory as conceived within the Minimalist Program. It therefore states that nominal phrases can be analysed as a projection of Determiner Phrase (DP) because independent existence is not a requirement for considering an element as the head of a projection. The variable position which the head D occupies in the superficial syntax of Ákè is analysed as the effect of movement for feature checking. In the spirit of the Minimalist Program, this study recognizes the head of the clause as Tense (T), which could be overt or null and predicts that it dominates Negative Phrase (NegP) as Neg is assumed to c-select the Verb Phrase (VP).
Capturing Ephemerality: George Brecht’s For a Drummer from the Perspective of a Performer
Authors: Olchowik Mika
Published: July 2021

The main purpose of the article is to present an individual approach of analysing and reperforming For a Drummer by George Brecht, a legendary composer and a member of Fluxus. The text is divided into several parts. The first half of the article is dedicated to the history and definition of performance art, the second one focuses on a performer persona and their artistic abilities. The latter leads to an actual analysis of a creative process, starting with a short biographical background of Brecht, followed by reading and understanding of the event score with a culmination found in the author’s re-performance.
ANALISIS KEMAMPUAN BERFIKIR KRITIS MELALUI PENGENALAN FUNGSI JAM DAN KONSEP WAKTU DENGAN TEORI SCHOENFELD MENYELESAIKAN MASALAH ANAK TK
Authors: Rofiqoh Wasilatur , Syahroni Iza , Eva Latipah
Published: July 2021

The problem that arises in this study is “How to analyze children’s thinking skills in solving a problem of introducing the function of the clock and the concept of time with Schoenfels’s theory”. In detail, the problem of how student’s critical thinking skills will be discussed in accordance with the five steps of problem solving according to Schoenfeld, namely Reading, Analysis, Exploration, Implementation, and Verification. Data collection through the method of tests, interviews, and documentation with the subject is three people selected with the criteria of one high- ability student, one medium- ability student, and one low- ability student. This research is qualitative, because the type of data in this study is qualitative in the form if description of words or sentences in the form of a picture. The result of the study concluded that of the three subjects who had high, medium, and low abilities there were differences in critical thinking abilities. In short, the subject with high ability is able to master 12 indicators of critical thinking well, while the subject with moderae ability is able to master 7 of the 12 existing indicators of critical thinking, and the subject with low ability is only able to master 5 of the 12 existing indicators of critical thinking.

Abstrak

Masalah yang muncul dalam penelitian ini yaitu “ Bagaimana analisa kemampuan berfikir anak dalam menyelesaikan suatu masalah pengenalan fungsi jam dan konsep waktu dengan teori Schoenfeld”. Secara rinci permasalahan bagaimana kemampuan berfikir kritis siswa yang akan dibahas sesuai dengan  lima langkah pemecahan masalah menurut Schoenfeld yaitu Reading, Analysis, Exploration, Implementation, dan Verification. Pengumpulan data melalui metode tes,  wawancara, dan dokumentasi dengan subjek adalah tiga orang yang dipilih dengan kriteria satu orang siswa berkemampuan tinggi, satu orang siswa berkemampuan sedang, dan satu orang siswa berkemampuan rendah. Penelitian Ini termasuk kualitatif , karena jenis data dalam penelitian ini bersifat kualitatif berupa deskripsi kata- kata ataupun kalimat dalam bentuk gamber. Hasil penelitian disimpulkan bahwa dari tiga subjek yang mempunyai kemampuan tinggi, sedang, dan rendah ada perbedaan dalam kemampuan berfikir kritis. Secara singkat yaitu subjek yang memiliki kemampuan tinggi mampu menguasai 12 indikator- indikator berfikir kritis dengan baik, sedangkan subjek berkemampuan sedang mampu mneguasai 7 dari 12 indikator berfikir kritis yang ada, dan subjek berkemampuan rendah hanya mampu mnguasai 5 dari 12 indikator berfikir kritis yang ada.

Kata Kunci:  Kemampuan Berfikir Kritis, Teori Schoenfeld
THEME AND RHEME ANALYSIS AND POLITENESS STRATEGY IN DIPLOMATIC WORKPLACE WRITING: A DISCOURSE ANALYSIS
Authors: Rahardjo Rahardjo , Hidayat Didin Nuruddin , Alek Alek
Published: July 2021

This study explores thematic progression patterns within the systemic functional linguistics (SFL) and the selection of words identified in writing within the diplomatic workplace. Politeness strategy employed between government to government communication through written diplomatic texts and its relationship with theme and rheme progression is the focus of this study. It is also aimed at raising host country EFL diplomat as well as university students’ awareness of progression patterns and the importance of persuasive writing to mitigate confrontational notions. Many researches have been conducted on public diplomacy and international relations on speeches or verbal texts but no studies on written text communication between a diplomatic office in a foreign country with the host country office announcing the arrival or departure of a diplomat from a foreign nation. To fill that gap is the reason of this study is aiming. A descriptive qualitative study was employed to analyze the theme-rheme progression patterns on a third-party-type diplomatic text of the Embassy of the United States of America addressed to the host country diplomatic consular section of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia in Jakarta.  SFL theory was applied particularly in analyzing the textual meta-function of the text to find the theme-rheme progression patterns. The result showed that the distribution of themes and rhemes in the text being analyzed follows the simple progression category.
TASK-BASED LEARNING IN ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE (EFL) CLASSROOM: WHAT, HOW AND WHY?
Authors: Sholeh Muhammad Badrus , Salija Kisman , Nur Sahril
Published: July 2021

Task-based Learning is increasingly prevalent worldwide. It emphasizes on authentic language use and asks students to perform meaningful tasks. English teaching by tasks is considered useful in a language classroom because the students are expected to learn better the target language when tasks are used in language teaching. The tasks are designed to establish a real language use objectives and to create a natural language acquisition setting. Task-based Learning, often considered being the powerful Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) version, gradually becoming second-language learning. This article describes the Task-based Learning definition, to recognize the principles and characteristics of Task-based Learning, to examine how to implement Task-based Learning in the English classroom, and to clarify the advantages of this approach.