bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanobiopolymer for Direct Targeting and Inhibition of EGFR Expression in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

AbstractTreatment options for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) are generally limited to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Recently, antiepidermalgrowth factor receptor (EGFR) therapy has been introduced for TNBC patients. We engineered a novelnanobioconjugate based on a poly(b-L-malic acid) (PMLA) nanoplatform for TNBC treatment. The nanobioconjugate carriesanti-tumor nucleosome-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) 2C5 to target breast cancer cells, anti-mouse transferrinreceptor (TfR) antibody for drug delivery through the host endothelial system, and Morpholino antisense oligonucleotide(AON) to inhibit EGFR synthesis. The nanobioconjugates variants were: (1) P (BioPolymer) with AON, 2C5 and anti-TfR fortumor endothelial and cancer cell targeting, and EGFR suppression (P/AON/2C5/TfR), and (2) P with AON and 2C5 (P/AON/2C5). Controls included (3) P with 2C5 but without AON (P/2C5), (4) PBS, and (5) P with PEG and leucine ester (LOEt) forendosomal escape (P/mPEG/LOEt). Drugs were injected intravenously to MDA-MB-468 TNBC bearing mice. Tissueaccumulation of injected nanobioconjugates labeled with Alexa Fluor 680 was examined by Xenogen IVIS 200 (live imaging)and confocal microscopy of tissue sections. Levels of EGFR, phosphorylated and total Akt in tumor samples were detectedby western blotting. In vitro western blot showed that the leading nanobioconjugate P/AON/2C5/TfR inhibited EGFRsynthesis significantly better than naked AON. In vivo imaging revealed that 2C5 increased drug-tumor accumulation.Significant tumor growth inhibition was observed in mice treated with the lead nanobioconjugate (1) [P = 0.03 vs. controls;P,0.05 vs. nanobioconjugate variant (2)]. Lead nanobioconjugate (1) also showed stronger inhibition of EGFR expressionand Akt phosphorylation than other treatments. Treatment of TNBC with the new nanobioconjugate results in tumorgrowth arrest by inhibiting EGFR and its downstream signaling intermediate, phosphorylated Akt. The nanobioconjugaterepresents a new generation of nanodrugs for treatment of TNBC.
Differential expression of estrogen-related receptors b and c (ERRb and ERRc) and their clinical significance in human prostate cancer.
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Estrogen-signaling pathways in addition to androgen-signalingpathways are implicated in the development of prostatecancer (PCa).(1) Diethylstilbestrol (DES) was previously usedfor endocrine therapy in the treatment of PCa. Presently, selectiveestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are being used forthis therapy. Toremifene, an estrogen receptor a (ERa) modulator,is used in patients with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia(HGPIN) for the prevention of PCa, while raloxifene, an ERbmodulator, is used in patients with hormone-refractory PCa.(2,3)The biological activities of these chemicals are mediated by twoERs – ERa and ERb. Since ERa is predominantly localized inthe stromal cells of the prostate,(4–7) the ERa-mediated effectsof estrogens on the prostatic epithelium are thought to be mediatedby paracrine pathways. In contrast, ERb is predominantlylocalized in the epithelial cells of the normal human prostate.ERb expression is lesser in PCa than in benign epithelium.(4,8)Thus, ERb exhibits a protective effect against aberrant cellproliferation and carcinogenesis.(9–12)Recent studies have focused on additional
Alternative protein sources for laying hens
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Protein sources are the second largest component of practical poultry diets. A limitednumber of ingredients are used by the mainstream commercial poultry industry tosupply protein; these are limited in distribution and are also generally more expensivethan energy sources. Soybean seed is the premier protein source used by the poultryindustry. Rapeseed or canola seed is probably the second most important proteinsource. Both seeds are rarely fed as whole seed meals but rather the residue left overafter oil extraction is the main ingredient used by the poultry industry. Both soybean andrapeseed are cultivated in only a few places in the world. Soybeans are predominantly2 Alternative sources of protein for poultry nutrition© Burleigh Dodds Science Publishing Limited, 2017. All rights reserved.produced in the United States, Brazil and Argentina, while the leading producers ofrapeseed/canola are Canada, some parts of Europe and China. The key producers ofsoybean meal export the product to several countries around the world, to the extentthat it would seem that it is produced all over the world. A large amount of canola seedmeal is now also exported but not to the same extent as soybean meal (SBM). Owing tothe limited number of producers and demand, the prices of SBM and canola meal arehigh and tend to fluctuate with changes in climatic conditions and social situations in thecountries where they are produced. These are the drivers of change, and many countrieswhich do not produce soybeans or canola explore alternative sources of protein tosupport their industries.The range of ingredients that can supply protein for poultry is wide. Many animalscontain high levels of protein, and if these are not used for human food, they can bedirectly processed into poultry feed. The animal industries, including the poultry industry,yield by-products that are also useful sources of protein. A few examples include blood,feathers and meat-on-bones. Among plant sources, different ingredients commanddifferent levels of importance. Some alternative sources are of such local importancethat the poultry industry in those areas relies almost entirely on them rather than SBMor canola meal. Good examples of such ingredients are peanut meal or groundnut cakeand sunflower seed meal, with substantial production outputs globally. Many other plantprotein sources are truly marginal in scope and their potential to replace soybean isnegligible. Regardless of the volume of production of an alternative protein source, anyshift in use of ingredients other than SBM and canola will greatly reduce the pressure onthese key protein sources. Such a shift would also help promote the development of thepoultry industry in many areas of the world. This chapter examines the range of alternativeingredients that are available to the poultry industry, their sustainability and means todevelop them to prominence as protein sources.
HIV Incidence Remains High in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Evidence from Three Districts
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Background: HIV prevalence and incidence among sexually active women in peri-urban areas of Ladysmith, Edendale, andPinetown, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, were assessed between October 2007 and February 2010 in preparation for vaginalmicrobicide trials.Methodology/Principal Findings: Sexually active women 18–35 years, not known to be HIV-positive or pregnant weretested cross-sectionally to determine HIV and pregnancy prevalence (798 in Ladysmith, 1,084 in Edendale, and 891 inPinetown). Out of these, approximately 300 confirmed non-pregnant, HIV-negative women were subsequently enrolled ateach clinical research center (CRC) in a 12-month cohort study with quarterly study visits. Women in the cohort studies wererequired to use a condom plus a hormonal contraceptive method. HIV prevalence rates in the baseline cross-sectionalsurveys were high: 42% in Ladysmith, 46% in Edendale and 41% in Pinetown. Around 90% of study participants at each CRCreported one sex partner in the last 3 months, but only 14–30% stated that they were sure that none of their sex partnerswere HIV-positive. HIV incidence rates based on seroconversions over 12 months were 14.8/100 person-years (PY) (95% CI9.7, 19.8) in Ladysmith, 6.3/100 PY (95% CI 3.2, 9.4) in Edendale, and 7.2/100 PY (95% CI 3.7, 10.7) in Pinetown. The 12-monthpregnancy incidence rates (in the context of high reported contraceptive use) were: 5.7/100 PY (95% CI 2.6, 8.7) inLadysmith, 3.1/100 PY (95% CI 0.9, 5.2) in Edendale and 6.3/100 PY (95% CI 3.0, 9.6) in Pinetown.Conclusions/Significance: HIV prevalence and incidence remain high in peri-urban areas of KwaZulu-Natal.
The Future of HIV Prevention: Prospects for an Effective Anti-HIV Microbicide
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

As the devastation of the HIV-AIDS epidemic continues, women are increasinglybearing the greatest impact, particularly in developing countries[1]. In many of these countries, nearly 60% of people living with HIVAIDSare women [2], and in several African countries, women 15 to 24 yearsof age are more than three times more likely to be infected than men thesame age [3]. In South Africa, one in four women is infected by 22 yearsof age [4]. Globally, more than 17.5 million women are now living withHIV-AIDS [5], and there are an estimated 13.2 million infected women insub-Saharan Africa [6].Although effective prevention technologies and strategies do alreadyexist, these are clearly insufficient to address the problems of the epidemic,especially in developing countries. The ‘‘ABC’’ approach (Abstinence, Befaithful, and use Condoms) has been used with some success in a numberof African countries [5,7]. However, in a survey among young women in
Estrogen Receptor–Binding Fragment–Associated Antigen 9 Is a Tumor-Promoting and Prognostic Factor for Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

The estrogen receptor–binding fragment–associated antigen9 (EBAG9) has been identified as a primary estrogenresponsivegene in human breast cancer MCF7 cells. A highexpression of EBAG9 has been observed in invasive breastcancer and advanced prostate cancer, suggesting a tumorpromotingrole of the protein in malignancies. Here we showthat intratumoral (i.t.) administration of small interferingRNA against EBAG9 exerted overt regression of tumorsfollowing s.c. implantation of murine renal cell carcinoma(RCC) Renca cells. Overexpression of EBAG9 did not promotethe proliferation of culture Renca cells; however, theinoculated Renca cells harboring EBAG9 (Renca-EBAG9) inBALB/c mice grew faster and developed larger tumorscompared with Renca cells expressing vector alone (Rencavector).After renal subcapsular implantation, Renca-EBAG9tumors significantly enlarged compared with Renca-vectortumors in BALB/c mice, whereas both Renca-EBAG9 andRenca-vector tumors were developed with similar volumes inBALB/c nude mice. No apparent difference was observed inspecific cytotoxic T-cell responses against Renca-EBAG9 andRenca-vector cells; nonetheless, the number of infiltratingCD8+ T lymphocytes was decreased in Renca-EBAG9 subcapsulartumors. Furthermore, immunohistochemical study ofEBAG9 in 78 human RCC specimens showed that intense anddiffuse cytoplasmic immunostaining was observed in 87% ofthe cases and positive EBAG9 immunoreactivity was closelycorrelated with poor prognosis of the patients. Multivariateanalysis revealed that high EBAG9 expression was anindependent prognostic predictor for disease-specific survival(P = 0.0485). Our results suggest that EBAG9 is a crucialregulator of tumor progression and a potential prognosticmarker for RCC.
Shape of vaginal suppositories affects willingness-to-try and preference
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a global threat to public health that maybe countered, in part, by microbicides. A successful microbicide must be both biologicallyefficacious and highly acceptable to users. Sensory attributes have a direct influence on productacceptability. We created a series of vaginal suppositories appropriate for use as microbicides toinvestigate the influence of shape on women's willingness-to-try. The influence of perceived sizeand firmness on acceptability was also assessed.Sexually-active women (n=99) were invited to participate in an evaluation of vaginal suppositoriesin 5 different shapes including: Bullet, Long Oval, Round Oval, Teardrop and Tampon. Thevolume (3 ml) and formulation for these 5 prototypes were identical. After manipulatingprototypes ex vivo (in their hands), participants rated their willingness-to-try on a 100-point visualanalog scale. The appropriateness of size and firmness were evaluated using 5-point just-aboutright(JAR) scales. Each participant evaluated all 5 prototypes individually. Samples werepresented in a counterbalanced monadic sequence using a Williams design.Mean willingness-to-try varied by shape, with Bullet and Long Oval receiving significantly higherscores. This was consistent with JAR data for size, as 70 and 65% of women indicated theseshapes were `just-about–right', respectively. In contrast, a minority of women endorsed the other 3shapes as having a size that was `just-about-right'. The proportion of women who felt the firmnesswas `just-about-right' was uniformly high, irrespective of shape, suggesting prior attempts tooptimize the formula were successful. Perceptions of size and firmness were influenced by thephysical length and width of the prototypes, in spite of having constant volume. Women showedhigh willingness-to-try when asked to assume they were at risk. These results are relevant forbehavioral and formulation scientists working on microbicides, to better understand the influenceof sensory attributes on acceptability, as acceptability and compliance ultimately impacteffectiveness.
Cytochrome P450 2B6 is aGrowth-Inhibitory and Prognostic Factor for ProstateCancer.
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignanciesin the world. There is abundant evidence thatandrogens influence the development and progressionof prostate cancer [1–3]. Since most of prostate cancer isandrogen-dependent, standard treatment for metastaticprostate cancer patients is androgen deprivationtherapy (ADT). However the beneficial effects of ADTare transient and prostate cancer progresses to recurrentcancer. Recent reports showed that levels oftestosterone and its metabolites, dihydrotestosterone(DHT) and androstenediol, were still sufficiently highto activate the androgen receptor in recurrent prostate
Opuntia stricta Cladode Extract Reduces Blood Glucose Levels in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Opuntia stricta (commonly called prickly pear cactus) is a natural plant that grows in some partsof Zambia where its fruits and cladodes are commonly consumed for nutritional and medicinal purposes, including glycaemiccontrol among some patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). There is insufficient evidence whether Opuntia strictaindigenously growing in Zambia possess antidiabetic effects. Aim: To assess in vivo antidiabetic effects of the aqueousextract of Opuntia stricta cladodes in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Methods: A laboratory-based experimental study wasconducted involving 20 adult Swiss albino mice (Mus musculus) weighing 18-30 g. DM was induced using a singleintraperitoneal dose of alloxan monohydrate 90 mg/kg. Opuntia stricta aqueous extract was administered orally and bloodglucose levels (in mmol/L) monitored daily for 10 days. Results: Alloxan induced a 4- to 5-fold sustained increase in bloodglucose levels at 72 hours after administration in mice. Within a 10-day experimental period, Opuntia stricta cladode aqueousextract (1 mg/kg) significantly reduced blood glucose levels in vivo (from 16.6 ± 1.4 mmol/L, 95% CI: 14.9-18.3 at baselineto 7.5 ± 1.0 mmol/L, 95% CI: 6.2-8.9 at endpoint, p < 0.001, n = 5). Similarly, at a dose of 2 mg/kg, the extractsignificantly reduced blood glucose levels (from 18.7 ± 4.6 mmol/L, 95% CI: 13.0-24.4 at baseline to 6.9 ± 1.7 mmol/L,95% CI: 4.7-9.0 at endpoint, p = 0.001, n = 5). Opuntia stricta cladode aqueous extract attained a greater reduction in bloodglucose levels compared to Glibenclamide 0.25 mg/kg. Opuntia stricta cladode aqueous extract demonstrated a presence ofalkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, sterols, carbohydrates, phenols and tannins. Conclusion: Opuntia stricta cladode fromZambia demonstrates antidiabetic effects to reduce blood glucose levels in vivo.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety Assessment of Anti-HIV Dapivirine Vaginal Microbicide Rings with Multiple Dosing
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Self-administered vaginal rings are a promising method for delivery of topical anti-HIV microbicidesand might offer an adherence advantage over daily or coitally-dependent dosage forms such as gels. This trialassessed the safety and pharmacokinetic aspects of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring-004 when worn as multiple rings oversequential periods of ring use by healthy, sexually-active, HIV-negative women.Methods: This double-blind trial was conducted among 48 women (18-40 years). Participants were randomlyassigned to two groups (A or B) and received (3:1) either the dapivirine or a placebo vaginal ring. Group A used tworings over a 56-day period and Group B used three rings over a 57-day period. Safety evaluations were conductedthroughout the trial. Dapivirine concentrations were measured in plasma, vaginal fluid and cervical tissue samplescollected during and after the 56 days (Group A) or 57 days (Group B) of vaginal ring use.Results: Ring-004 was safe and well tolerated in all participants. The pharmacokinetic profile demonstrated arapid increase in plasma and vaginal fluid concentrations and achieved concentrations in vaginal fluids and cervicaltissue well above the in vitro IC99 in cervical tissue (3.3 ng/mL) that were sustained for a 28 to 35-day ring use period(approximately 3000 times higher in vaginal fluids and 14 -1000 times higher in cervical tissue). Drug levels wereassociated with significant inhibitory activity of genital secretions against HIV ex vivo, a biomarker of pharmacodynamics.Individual plasma dapivirine concentrations did not exceed 553 pg/mL and were well below plasma concentrations atthe maximum tolerated dose for oral treatment (mean Cmax 2286 ng/mL).Conclusions: The consecutive use of several rings over a period of up to 57 days was safe and well tolerated, andPK data indicate that a single Ring-004 is likely to be protective for at least 35 days.
Molecular Epidemiology and Biomarkers in Etiologic Cancer Research: The New in Light of the Old
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this review is to evaluate progress inmolecular epidemiology over the past 24 years in canceretiology and prevention to draw lessons for futureresearch incorporating the new generation of biomarkers.Molecular epidemiology was introduced inthe study of cancer in the early 1980s, with theexpectation that it would help overcome some majorlimitations of epidemiology and facilitate cancerprevention. The expectation was that biomarkerswould improve exposure assessment, document earlychanges preceding disease, and identify subgroupsin the population with greater susceptibility to cancer,thereby increasing the ability of epidemiologic studiesto identify causes and elucidate mechanisms incarcinogenesis. The first generation of biomarkers hasindeed contributed to our understanding of riskandsusceptibility related largely to genotoxic carcinogens.Consequently, interventions and policy changes havebeen mounted to reduce riskfrom several importantenvironmental carcinogens. Several new and promisingbiomarkers are now becoming available for epidemiologicstudies, thanks to the development of highthroughputtechnologies and theoretical advances inbiology. These include toxicogenomics, alterations ingene methylation and gene expression, proteomics, andmetabonomics, which allow large-scale studies, includingdiscovery-oriented as well as hypothesis-testinginvestigations. However, most of these newer biomarkershave not been adequately validated, and theirrole in the causal paradigm is not clear. There is a needfor their systematic validation using principles andcriteria established over the past several decades inmolecular cancer epidemiology.
In vitro evaluation of the quality of essential drugs on the Tanzanian market
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

We evaluated the in vitro availability and its stability under simulated tropical conditions of variousformulations of four essential drugs marketed in Tanzania. We obtained 22 formulations (containingparacetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, chloroquine or sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine) from wholesalepharmacies in Dar es Salaam and the Medical Stores Department (Tanzania). The drug content, in vitroavailability (dissolution) and its stability under simulated tropical conditions were determined usingmethods specified in the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) 24 monograph of the respective drugs. Allformulations passed the pharmacopoeia requirements for the drug content. However, sevenformulations (three acetylsalicylic acid, two sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine and two paracetamol) failedto meet the USP 24 tolerance limits for dissolution. Another five formulations (three paracetamol andtwo chloroquine) failed to meet the dissolution tolerance limits after being subjected to an acceleratedstability test under simulated tropical conditions (75% RH/40 ?C) for 6 months. The study hasdemonstrated the presence on the Tanzanian market of essential drug formulations that met potencyrequirements and yet had unsatisfactory in vitro availability as they were not robust enough to withstandstorage under simulated tropical conditions.
TAp73 opposes tumor angiogenesis by promoting hypoxia-inducible factor 1α degradation
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Tumor hypoxia and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) activationare associated with cancer progression. Here, we demonstrate thatthe transcription factor TAp73 opposes HIF-1 activity through anontranscriptional mechanism, thus affecting tumor angiogenesis.TAp73-deficient mice have an increased incidence of spontaneousand chemically induced tumors that also display enhanced vascularization.Mechanistically, TAp73 interacts with the regulatory subunit(α) of HIF-1 and recruits mouse double minute 2 homolog intothe protein complex, thus promoting HIF-1α polyubiquitination andconsequent proteasomal degradation in an oxygen-independentmanner. In human lung cancer datasets, TAp73 strongly predictsgood patient prognosis, and its expression is associated with lowHIF-1 activation and angiogenesis. Our findings, supported by invivo and clinical evidence, demonstrate a mechanism for oxygenindependentHIF-1 regulation, which has important implicationsfor individualizing therapies in patients with cancer.
High positive frequency of antibodies to metallothionein and heat shock protein 70 in sera of patients with metal allergy
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Two principal types of stress protein, heat shock proteins (hsps) and metallothionein (MT), are inducedin cells responding to a variety of stresses. They play an important role in protecting cells from thesestresses. However, many reports indicate that antibodies to hsps are present in human serum and areassociated with several autoimmunity diseases. Metals, which are commonly allergenic to humans,induce both MT and hsp70 (one of the hsps family). Until now, there has been no report of any antibodyto MT in human serum. In the present study, serum samples from healthy controls (Group I), andpatients suffering from atopic dermatitis without (Group II) or with (Group III) metal allergy, weremeasured for antibodies to MT and hsp70, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Metal allergy was confirmed by patch testing. We first found that antibody to MT exists in human serum.We also found a high positive frequency of antibody to MT (51·3%) and to hsp70 (43·6%) in the seraof Group III, compared to those of Group I (3·8% and 5·1%) or Group II (6·4% and 5·1%). Furthermore,there was a strong positive correlation between antibody to MT and antibody to hsp70 in GroupIII (P = 0·0013), but not in Group I and Group II. Our results indicate that antibody to MT exists inhuman serum, as do antibodies to hsps, and suggest
Genetics of Osteoporosis
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

OSTEOPOROSIS is a common disease affecting the majorityof older women and a significant minority ofolder men. It is defined as the gradual reduction in bonestrength with advancing age, particularly in women postmenopause, such that bones fracture with minimal trauma(1– 4). Although fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine areoften focused upon, almost any bone can fracture (5–21). Ageper se is the strongest risk factor for osteoporotic fracture;however, the variance in bone density is similar across allages. A range of hormonal and environmental factorsheighten the risk of osteoporosis, yet together these riskfactors explain only a small proportion of the overall risk.Trauma is an important factor with the event of fracture oftenthe result of a relatively weak bone being subjected to force,such as in a fall. Any bone will fracture if subjected to excessiveforce, e.g., in a motor vehicle accident. Howeverweakened, osteoporotic bones can fracture without any obviousantecedent trauma. This complete spectrum in bonestrength is the focus of this review, particularly the geneticfactors that may influence sensitivity to environmental andhormonal factors. These factors and their interactions contributeto the end result of bone strength in later adult lifewhen the risk for osteoporotic fractures rises.Osteoporosis is one of the major and growing health careproblems around the world largely related to the general
Diffuse mesothelin expression leads to worse prognosis through enhanced cellular proliferation in colorectal cancer
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Mesothelin (MSLN) is a glycophosphatidylinositol(GPI)‑linked cell surface protein that is highly expressedin several types of malignant tumor, including malignantpleural mesothelioma, ovarian cancer and pancreaticadenocarcinoma. Recently, a comprehensive immunohistochemicalstudy using MN‑1 monoclonal antibody identifieda significant number of colorectal tumors in which MSLNwas expressed. However, the clinicopathological profiles andsurvival of patients with MSLN‑positive colorectal cancerhave not been fully analyzed. In the current study, the expressionof MSLN in 270 primary and 44 metastatic colorectaltumors was immunohistochemically analyzed to determinethe clinical usefulness of MSLN immunohistochemistryand to identify potential candidates for future anti‑MSLNtherapy. In vitro experiments using colon cancer cell lineswere performed to investigate the biological significanceof MSLN expression in tumors. The results of univariateanalyses identified a significant correlation between MSLNexpression and females (P=0.0042). Furthermore, an inversecorrelation between MSLN expression and solid/sheet‑likeproliferation (P=0.014) was also revealed. Additionally,overall survival was significantly shorter in patientswith diffuse luminal/membranous expression of MSLN(P=0.018). Multivariable Cox hazards regression analysisrevealed diffuse MSLN expression (hazard ratio, 2.26; 95%confidence interval, 1.04‑4.91; P=0.039) as a potential riskfactor. When comparing primary CRCs and the metastasisof each, a weakly positive correlation was identified forMSLN positivity (% positive cells; R=0.484; P<0.0001). Thein vitro experiments revealed a positive role for MSLN incolon cancer cell proliferation. Thus, MSLN immunohistochemistrymay be useful in the prognostication of patientswith CRC. The results demonstrated that significant numbersof patients with MSLN‑positive CRC exhibiting metastasiscould be targeted by anti‑MSLN therapies.
Root exudation the ecological driver of hydrocarbon rhizoremediation
Authors: Muungo Lungwani
Published: June 2020

Rhizoremediation is a bioremediation technique whereby microbial degradation of organiccontaminants occurs in the rhizosphere. It is considered to be an effective and affordable “greentechnology” for remediating soils contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. Root exudation ofa wide variety of compounds (organic, amino and fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, nucleotides,phenolic compounds, polysaccharides and proteins) provide better nutrient uptake for the rhizospheremicrobiome. It is thought to be one of the predominant drivers of microbial communities in therhizosphere and is therefore a potential key factor behind enhanced hydrocarbon biodegradation. Manyof the genes responsible for bacterial adaptation in contaminated soil and the plant rhizosphere arecarried by conjugative plasmids and transferred among bacteria. Because root exudates can stimulategene transfer, conjugation in the rhizosphere is higher than in bulk soil. A better understanding ofthese phenomena could thus inform the development of techniques to manipulate the rhizospheremicrobiome in ways that improve hydrocarbon bioremediation.
A Review of Research into Google Apps in the Process of English Language Learning and Teaching
Authors: Amin Eman Abdel-Reheem
Published: June 2020

GALL (Google Assisted Language Learning) refers to Google as a collaborative and communicative tool that supports online and blended language learning. This research paper presents an overview of previous studies on using Google Apps in the process of learning and teaching of English language. A systematic search on ERIC digital library and Google Scholar reviewed the previous studies published during the last ten years. There were one hundred seventy-eight articles, and thirty-four studies were sorted and analyzed using NVivo software. This systematic review showed that using some Google Applications, resulted in developing English language learning and teaching. The writing was the most language skill investigated. Translation practices have changed due to using machine translation with the help of Google Translate web site. Besides, more studies with concern for reading skills, speaking skills, oral reading, and the Google speech recognition system emerged as a promising field for further research.
Geographies of India-Nepal contestation
Authors: Mishra Swasti Vardhan , Haque Sk. Mafizul
Published: June 2020

The commentary looks at how physiography and cartography can explain the ensuing tiff between India and Nepal. These geographies when deconstructed through critical cartography and critical hydropolitics present us with a new vantage point. The Kali River that marks the boundary between India and Nepal when reading through critical hydropolitics provides us with a new angle of vision. Secondly, we read the maps and story behind them to unearth the historico-political meanings. Thereby, reflecting on how India’s cartographic censorship is contested with counter-mapping by Nepal. Lastly, the cartographic rhetoric is uncovered that circulates in Nepal and the meanings and implications it holds for the relation between the two countries. The rhetoric has a broader vision through conceptualisation of space based on history. The paper contributes to understanding the existing geographies of contestation while providing ways for its resolution in the coming times.
The Challenges and Prospects of Using E-learning among EFL Students in Bisha University
Authors: Ja'ashan Mohammed Mohammed Nasser Hassan
Published: June 2020

This study attempts to find out the challenges students' face in learning English as a foreign language when using E-learning system at University of Bisha. It also investigates whether using E-learning is beneficial to EFL students in their learning English to the degree anticipated. There are many challenges face both teachers and students during use E-learning. These challenges include academic, technological; and administrative challenges. The study sample included 36 teaching staff and 261 EFL students at University of Bisha - English department. To collect data required, the researcher developed questionnaires that consist of three domains for both teaching staff and students separately. The study results show that there are no significant differences between EFL students (males and females) of E-learning activities. Therefore, it argued that all domains of teaching staff and students' challenges could not predict academic achievement. The findings reveal that some factors such as academic, administrative, and technical challenges regarding E-learning were the main challenges of E-learning at University of Bisha. The results also show that students aware of the benefits of using E-learning. They perceive themselves as having a highly positive attitude towards E-learning in English. However, the main advantage can be used anywhere, anytime, and the E-learning system can adapt to the aims of improving communication and enriching students' learning experiences
Pragmatics of Political Blame in British and Iraqi Parliaments
Authors: Saleem Ammar Ghalib , Alattar Rihab Abduljaleel Saeed
Published: June 2020

This research is a pragmatic study of political blame in British and Iraqi Parliaments. It aims to unfold the similarities and/or differences in terms of the pragmatic and pragma-rhetorical strategies used by British and Iraqi politicians when they exchange blame in both offensive and defensive situations. A statistical analysis is conducted to quantitatively support the findings of the pragmatic analysis. The analyses conducted have yielded different results among blame is a process composed of two stages. Each stage is distinct for its pragmatic components and pragma-rhetorical strategies. British and Iraqi MPs at the blame stage tend to utilize impoliteness as their main strategy. However, British and Iraqi MPs perform differently at the blame avoidance stage in that British MPs employ politeness as their main defense strategy, whereas Iraqi MPs exploit impoliteness. Besides, British and Iraqi MPs at the blame stage tend to violate the maxim of quality by fabricating their statements. At the blame avoidance stage, the maxim of relevance was the most violated one through the strategy of evasion. As for pragma-rhetorical strategies, British and Iraqi politicians at the blame stage exploit the pragma-rhetorical strategy of number-game to support their credibility. At the blame avoidance stage, British politicians primarily utilize hyperbole, whereas Iraqi politicians deploy shifting blame.
A Thorough Examination of Teens Drug Slang in Algeria
Authors: GHOUNANE Nadia
Published: June 2020

Investigating the world of the drug through providing a linguistic scholarship on the coded forms employed by addicts is not an easy task because they tend to form the slang lexis that keeps them out of trouble with the law and their parents when it comes to teenagers. Several investigations showed that drugs become prevalent among schoolers in comparison to cigarettes; for this reason, teens tend to develop street drug expressions commonly known as slang names to ease their access into the very dark and secretive world of drugs and steroids. In this vein, the present research paper pursues to shed light on Algerian teens and their use of drug slang terms. It also provides a thorough overview of the slang created by Algerian youngsters to facilitate the exchange of drug products. In this tight, the researcher made a profound investigation by taking Tlemcen speech community as a case in point. The researcher collected data through a semi-structured questionnaire and an interview. To this end, the results provided an in-depth look at what is behind the backdrop of the drug world. The analysis revealed that there is increasing use of slang terms between teens at secondary schools, especially words for selling and buying drugs. The findings also demonstrated that teens have created slang terms for the most widely employed types of drugs like ecstasy, heroin, L.S.D, and barbiturates.
Investigating Teachers’ Perceptions of the Influence of Professional Development on Teachers’ Performance and Career Progression
Authors: Tantawy Nesrin
Published: June 2020

Understanding a process is the key to maximizing the outcomes of such a process; teachers’ professional development (PD) can be further facilitated through fully apprehending the process by which they grow professionally and the factors that contribute to such growth. In this study, the author intends to explore the relationship between a school environment and teachers’ readiness for PD as well as how they perceive of the impact of PD on their professional and personal qualities, students’ performance, teachers’ career progression, and commitment to the job and workplace. The author administered semi-structured interviews with three English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers who are in their mid-career stage and work for private, American curriculum-based schools in Dubai. The results show that all three interviewees admit the positive influence of PD on their professional performance, personal qualities, students’ outcomes, career progression and commitment to the profession. How a progressive school culture would impact teachers’ inclination towards PD has also been brought to attention by the interviewees as a critical aspect. As potential areas of research on PD, it is recommended that students’ academic performance is to be looked into closely through examining their assessment results in order to muster tangible evidence on the significance of teachers’ PD. Also, a conversation analysis of classroom discourse following a number of classroom observations of teachers in different career stages would be another informative research method to investigate the impact of PD on teachers’ performance and on classroom dynamics.
Sociocultural Studies via CDA in Native Son (1939)
Authors: Farahmandian Hamid , Shao Lu
Published: June 2020

This paper aims at the study of the artistic features of language in Richard Wright’s Native Son. In order to pursue and achieve the mentioned goal, Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) will be the applied approach, which provides analytical tools to uncover the socio-cultural aspects of texts by analyzing their in-text language. "Modality," "Metaphor" and "Racist Discourse" are three major arguments to be studied under the CDA approach. By analyzing the predominant concerns of these three parts, this paper brings and reinterprets the serious problematic issues including power, the black oppression by the white, social limitations and racist ideology.
Appropriate Teaching Methods for General English and English for Specific Purposes from Teachers' Perspectives
Authors: Khalil Lubna , Semono-Eke Brunhielda Kholofelo
Published: June 2020

Teaching methodology has a significant impact on the learning process of students. The English language has changed over time. This research investigates the most appropriate and useful teaching methods for teaching General English (GE) and English for Specific Purposes (ESP) in the Saudi context. This study is an attempt to share experienced English as a foreign language (EFL)/ English as a second language (ESL) teachers' methodology for teaching EG and ESP to Saudi EFL learners. The paper aims to answer the following questions: 1) What are the conventional methods for teaching GE and ESP?; 2) What are the English teachers' perceptions of these effective teaching pedagogies?; 3) What are the practical measures to improve student efficiency in learning English? The sample of the study was n = 63 English teachers randomly selected at different universities in Saudi Arabia. For collecting the quantitative data, 63 native and non-native experienced English teachers were requested to fill in a semi-structured questionnaire. The results show that 73% of the English language teachers prefer to use the Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) along with other teaching methods. The findings shed light on some highly useful teaching methods that have proved successful in EG and ESP classes. The researchers expect the study will be significant in contributing to the most appropriate methods used in Saudi Arabia for language teachers. Hopefully, teachers wishing to teach in the future will have an insight into the teaching methods that fulfill the requirements of the students.
Discourse Markers in Arabic and English Newspaper Articles: The Case of the Arabic Lakin and its English equivalent But
Authors: Alsager Haroon Nasser , Afzal Naeem , Aldawood Arwa Abdulaziz
Published: June 2020

Discourse markers, as words or phrases, play a significant role in promoting coherent segments of discourse. This paper investigates the use of discourse markers (DMs) in newspaper articles. By applying Fraser’s framework, this study aims at investigating the functions and positions of DM but (English) and its equivalent lakin (Arabic) in newspaper articles written by native and non-native speakers of English and Saudi and Egyptian speakers of Arabic. It also highlights the similarities and differences in the functions and positions of DMs but and lakin. This quantitative study adopts a corpus-based approach. The data consist of articles collected from 12 newspapers categorized as: Arabic language newspapers published in Saudi Arabia (Alriyadh, Al Jazirah, Al-Hayat) and Egypt (Al-Ahram, Al-Gomhuria, Eltahrir) and English language newspapers published in Saudi Arabia (Arab News, Saudi Gazette, Asharq Al-Awsat) and the USA (Washington Post, The New York Times, USA TODAY). Findings demonstrate, first, that DM but is used frequently as a confirmation or addition marker by both native and non-native speakers. However, second, lakin, functions as the primary correction DM in standard Arabic. Moreover, third, the native Arabic speakers mostly share the same functions of using lakin despite different dialects they have. This study also reveals that lakin can be found only in the medial position, whereas, but is found in the initial and medial position. It concludes that DMs but and lakin evidence that functions of DMs proposed by Fraser are universal and they could be generalized.
Impact of Watching Cartoons on Pronunciation of a Child in an EFL Setting: A Comparative Study with Problematic Sounds of EFL Learners
Authors: Alghonaim Ali S.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study is to describe a longitudinal case study of pronunciation acquisition for an Arabic child who watched English TV cartoons in an English as a foreign language (EFL) setting, basically in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia. The child, whose name is Anmar, was raised in a typical Arabic environment where Arabic was the only means of communication he experienced. He watched selected English TV cartoons since he was three years old and until he was ten years old. This research study focused on Anamr's acquisition of pronunciation, although the chances to use the language were very limited due to his EFL environment. Additionally, the study aims at comparing Anmar's pronunciation of problematic sounds to Arab learners of English, as stated in previous studies. The research adopted a longitudinal research methodology aiming to find if watching English TV cartoons without even minimum use of language could impact the child's pronunciation compared to his counterparts of Arab learners of English. Therefore, this research utilized some methods, including rating some audio and video recordings of conversations with his father and storytelling. Two native speakers of English rated his performance. A mispronunciation recognition test was carried out to evaluate Anmar's recognition of mispronunciation. The study found out that Anmar's pronunciation was native-like. He far outperformed the Arab learners of English concerning the problematic sounds to Arab learners. He easily differentiates between, for instance, minimal pairs, diphthongs, consonant clusters, vowels, and intonation. The study concluded that children might acquire English pronunciation by watching TV cartoons to be able to overcome the pronunciation problems that many Arab speakers experience. Additionally, English learners in elementary schools may watch such programs to train them to listen to authentic language in media.
The Effect of SPAWN Strategy in Developing Persuasive Writing Skills and Productive Habits of Mind
Authors: Alkthery Amal Musaed , Al-Qiawi Dalal Abdullah
Published: June 2020

This research investigated the effect of SPAWN strategy in developing persuasive writing skills and productive habits of mind in the English language among second secondary grade students. The study adopted the quasi-experimental design, which involves two groups: experimental and control. For data collection, the researcher designed the following instruments and materials: the teacher's guide to teach persuasive writing and develop productive habits of mind by using SPAWN strategy, persuasive writing skills test and rubric, and the productive habits of mind scale. These instrument were applied to a sample of sixty students in the second secondary grade. Data were analyzed through Pearson's correlation coefficient, independent samples t-test, paired-samples t-test, and ETA squared. The findings revealed statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the experimental and the control groups in the post-administration of persuasive writing test and productive habits of mind scale in favor of the experimental group. Also, the results obtained through the paired-sample t-test and the Eta squared showed that the experimental group students achieved significantly higher scores in the post-tests. Besides, Pearson's correlation coefficient revealed the strong positive correlation between persuasive writing skills and the four selected productive habits of mind, which are: Thinking flexibly, Questioning and Problem posing, Apply prior knowledge to new situations, Creating Imagining and Innovating. In recommended , include the persuasive writing skills in second secondary grade students' textbook and teachers' guide to help teach, develop and evaluate students' persuasive writing skills effectively. Besides, including the procedures of SPAWN strategy in the teachers' manual to enhancing students persuasive writing and promote productive habits of mind.
Cognitive Presence in a Blended Learning Environment at Jordanian Universities
Authors: Harb Jibrel , Krish Pramela
Published: June 2020

Cognitive presence is the ability of the learners to project their mental and perceptual presence. This paper aims to investigate cognitive presence when using a Blended Learning environment. The article also aims at exploring university students' attitudes towards using a BL environment in language learning, since BL perception, as a computer learning environment, has become a requirement to enhance language learning. The sample for the study consists of 100 students studying the English Language Skills course at Al-Balqa Applied University (BAU) in Jordan, who responded to a questionnaire on cognitive presence issues. The findings of the study reveal that Blended Learning (BL) can create a vibrant cognitive presence, which enables to support active language learning. The results share some positive attitudes towards a cognitive presence in a BL environment. The study recommends that more research on the part of the online instructors to create and enhance cognitive presence is necessary to benefit learning English language skills.