bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of different surface treatments on surface roughness, phase transformation, and biaxial flexural strength of dental zirconia
Authors: Yahyazadehfar Niknaz , Azimi Zavaree Maryam , Shayegh Sayed Shojaedin , Yahyazadehfar Mobin , Hooshmand Tabassom , Hakimaneh Seyed Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2021

Background. Interfacial failures at the cement‒restoration interface highlights the importance of effective surface treatment with no adverse effect on the zirconia’s mechanical properties. This study aimed to determine the effect of different surface treatments on dental graded zirconia’s surface roughness and certain mechanical properties. Methods. Forty sintered zirconia specimens were randomly divided into four groups (n=10): control (no surface treatment), sandblasting (SA), grinding with diamond bur (GB), and Er,Cr:YSGG laser (LS). Following surface treatment, the surface roughness and surface topography of the specimens were examined. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was conducted. In addition, the biaxial flexural strengths of specimens were evaluated. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc Tukey tests; the Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated between either volumetric percentage of monoclinic phase or roughness and flexural strength of specimens (α=0.05). Results. The GB group exhibited significantly greater surface roughness compared to the other groups (P<0.005). The LS and control groups exhibited a significantly lower volumetric percentage of the monoclinic phase (P<0.001) than the GB and SA treatments. The SA group exhibited significantly higher flexural strength than the control (P=0.02) and GB groups (P<0.01). Furthermore, the Weibull analysis for the LS showed higher reliability for the flexural strength than other treatments. Conclusion. Er,Cr:YSGG laser treatment, with the lowest extent of phase transformation and reliable flexural strength, can be a promising choice for surface treatment of zirconia.
Drug resistance against 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review
Authors: Atashi Fatemeh , Vahed Nafiseh , Emamverdizadeh Parya , Fattahi Shirin , Paya Ladan
Published: September 2021

Head and neck cancers are highly prevalent worldwide. Most of these lesions are diagnosed in the advanced stages of the disease. Thus, they do not often have a good long-term prognosis. Like other cancer types, head and neck cancers are managed by surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Despite significant advances in the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), physicians encounter several challenges in the course of treatment. Various mechanisms mediate the clinical responses of a certain cancer to medications. Thus, efficient treatment planning requires adequate knowledge about the genes involved in drug resistance and the evaluation of the frequency percentage of resistance. Several studies have evaluated the causes and frequency percentages of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin resistance. In this systematic review, all the relevant articles published until November 30, 2019, were retrieved from the Scopus, Embase, Medline, ISI, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases using certain MeSH and EMTTree keywords. A total of 2164 articles were retrieved of which, 18 were included in the review since they had reported the frequency percentages of drug resistance. Of all, 10 articles had evaluated cisplatin (1317 samples). A meta-analysis of the results revealed a frequency of 33% for cisplatin resistance. Eight studies had evaluated 5-FU (476 samples). A meta-analysis of the results revealed a frequency of 40.2 % for 5-FU resistance. Overcoming cisplatin resistance or 5-FU resistance can significantly enhance recovery in advanced HNSCC. Attempts should be made to eliminate the cause and use multi-drug regimens to increase the success rate of treatment.
A Survey of of interval training on the expression of ICAM, VCAM and galectin-3 proteins in the heart tissue of asthmatic rats
Authors: nobahar masome , Siahkouhian Marefat , mirdar shadmehr , Tapak Lily
Published: September 2021

Background: Asthma is a heterogeneous disease whose inflammatory processes are involved in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction, and increases the prevalence of cardiovascular disease. This study was designed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of interval training on some of the effective factors in atherosclerosis in heart tissue of asthmatic rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 15 rats were randomly divided into three groups of sham, asthma, and asthmatic-interval training. The model of asthma was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 1 ml ovalbumin for 2 weeks, and then asthmatic-interval training rats for 8 weeks participated in interval training. During the training protocol period, twice weekly intraperitoneal injections of ovalbumin 1 ml, and were placed into a glass container exposed to 5% ovalbumin spray. 48 hours after the last training session, the rats were anesthetized and their hearts were ejected. The levels of proteins expression of ICAM, VCAM, and galectin-3 were measured by immunohistochemistry, and western blotting, respectively. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA in SPSS at the significant level α=0.05. Results: The results of this study showed that the expression of ICAM (P=0.001), VCAM (P=0.001), and galectin-3 (P=0.001) was significantly increased in heart tissue of asthma rats. Whereas, interval training decreased the expression of ICAM (P=0.001), VCAM (P=0.001), and galectin-3 (P=0.01) proteins in the asthmatic-interval training group compared to the asthma group. Conclusions: It seems that, interval training is effective in preventing atherosclerosis in patients with asthma.
The Impact of Clinical Pharmacist Interventions on Medication Errors Management in the Postoperative Cardiac Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Safaie Naser , Azizi Hanieh , Khiali Sajad , Entezari-Maleki Taher
Published: September 2021

Background: Medication errors (MEs) frequently occur in intensive care unit (ICU) admittedpatients. The present study aimed to evaluate the frequency and types of MEs in an open heartsurgery heart ICU and clinical pharmacists’ role in the management of them. Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was performed from October 2016 toMarch 2017 in the Shahid Madani Heart Center. A clinical pharmacist reviewed patients’ files,laboratory data, and physician orders during morning hours. All of the MEs and the clinicalpharmacies’ recommendations for the management of them were analyzed. Results: A total of 311 MEs were observed in the medical files of 152 patients. The rate of MEswas 2.04 errors per patient and 0.19 errors per ordered medication. The acceptance rate of MEswas 72.6%. The most type of MEs was ‘forgot to order’ (75 cases, 24.1%) followed by "wrongfrequency" and "adding a drug" in 56 (18%) and 49 (15.8) patients, respectively. Most MEs wereinsignificant. Conclusion: MEs occur at different stages of the therapeutic process in the postoperative cardiacintensive care unit, and clinical pharmacists play an essential role in detecting and managingMEs.
Effects of Sodium Selenite and Vitamin E on the Development of Morphine Dependency in Mice
Authors: Habibi-Asl Bohloul , Parvizpur Alireza , Fekri Kiarash , Jahanpanah Hadis , Rezaei Hadis , Charkhpour Mohammad
Published: September 2021

Background: Antioxidant drugs may be useful in preventing morphine-induced dependency bysuppressing oxidative stress. Vitamin E which has many essential roles in the body is a powerfulantioxidant. On the other hand, selenium is an essential trace element that plays a strong rolein various biochemical pathways. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sodiumselenite and vitamin E on morphine-induced dependency in mice. Methods: Ninety male mice, weighing 20 to 30 g, were randomly divided into 10 groups and weretreated as follows: a) saline and b) morphine groups were pretreated (for 2 days) with normalsaline (10 ml.kg-1.day-1, ip) then daily doses of normal saline (10 ml.kg-1.day-1, ip) and morphine(50 mg.kg-1.day-1) were added to the injections for the following 4 days, respectively. c, d, e)sodium selenite, f, g, h) vitamin E, i) vitamin E solvent (almond oil) and j) co-administrationgroups were pretreated (for 2 days) with sodium selenite (0.25, 0.5, 1 mg.kg-1.day-1, ip), vitaminE (20, 40, 60 IU.kg-1.day-1, ip), vitamin E solvent (10 ml.kg-1.day-1, ip) and combination of thedrugs respectively, then morphine doses (50 mg.kg-1.day-1, ip) were added to the injections forthe following 4 days. Withdrawal symptoms were evaluated after injecting naloxone (4 mg/kg/day). Biochemical evaluations were also performed. Results: The results showed that co-administration of sodium selenite and vitamin E (at lowdoses) significantly reduced morphine dependency (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The synergistic effect of sodium selenite and vitamin E can be a suitable andefficient approach to reduce dependency.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Anticancer Activity of Novel 1,3-Thiazolidin-4-Ones
Authors: Sawant Ramesh , Wadekar Jyoti , Ukirde Rushikesh , Barkade Ganesh
Published: September 2021

Background: Cancer is a major cause of death all over the globe. Controlling cell division byinhibition of mitosis is the most successful clinical strategy for cancer treatment. The developmentof novel anticancer agents is the most important area in medicinal chemistry and drug discoveryresearch. Thiazolidine is the multifunctional nucleus which shows a number of pharmacologicalactivities like anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antidiabetic,antihyperlipidemic and antiarthritic. Methods: In a present study series of 2-substituted-3-(1H-benzimidazole-2-yl)-thiazolidin-4-ones were designed, synthesized by the microwave-assisted system, and characterized bymelting point, IR, 1H NMR, and mass spectroscopy. All the newly synthesized compoundswere examined for their in vitro anticancer activity against breast cancer cell line MCF-7 bySulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Results: The compounds AB-12 (GI50: 28.5 μg/ml) and AB-6 (GI50: 50.7 μg/ml) exhibitedsignificant cell growth inhibitory activity. Conclusion: These results indicate that compound AB-12 and AB-6 as related polo-like kinase1inhibitors compounds could be lead compounds for further development of anticanceragents.
The Role of HSA21 Encoded Mirna in Down Syndrome Pathophysiology:Opportunities in miRNA-Targeted Pharmacotherapy and Diagnosis of the Down Syndrome
Authors: Mahernia Shabnam , Sarvari Sajad , Fatahi Yousef , Amanlou Massoud
Published: September 2021

Trisomy 21 is the most prevalent aneuploidy disorder among live-born children worldwide. Itresults from the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 which leads to a wide spectrum ofpathophysiological abnormalities and intellectual disabilities. Nevertheless human chromosome21 (HSA21) possess protein non-coding regions where HAS-21 derived-microRNA genes aretranscribed from. In turn, these HSA21-derived miRNAs curb protein translation of severalgenes which are essential to meet memory and cognitive abilities. From the genetics andmolecular biology standpoints, dissecting the mechanistic relationship between DS pathology/symptoms and five chromosome 21-encoded miRNAs including miR-99a, let-7c, miR-125b-2,miR-155 and miR-802 seems pivotal for unraveling novel therapeutic targets. Recently,several studies have successfully carried out small molecule inhibition of miRNAs function,maturation, and biogenesis. One might assume in the case of DS trisomy, the pharmacologicalinhibition of these five overexpressed miRNAs might open new avenues for amelioration of theDS symptoms and complications. In this review, we primarily elucidated the role of HSA21-encoded miRNAs in the DS pathology which in turn introduced and addressed importanttherapeutic targets. Moreover, we reviewed relevant pharmaceutical efforts that based theirgoals on inhibition of these pathological miRNAs at their different biogenesis steps. We havealso discussed the challenges that undermine and question the reliability of miRNAs as noneinvasivebiomarkers in prenatal diagnosis.
Evaluation of Methylation at Promoter Regions of Long Non-coding RNAs in Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Mousavi Zohreh , Ghorbian Saeid , Rezamand Azim , Roshangar Leyla , Jafari Behboud
Published: September 2021

Introduction Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a fetal hematologic disorder that is mostly observed in children. Both B and T lymphocytes have been reported to play a role in ALL etiology. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are large regulatory molecules with more than 200 nucleotides that participate in various cellular processes. Methylation at the promoter regions of these regulatory molecules has been reported to vary between ALL patients and healthy controls. This study aimed to evaluate methylation status at promoter regions of lncRNAs between these two groups. Methods In the current study, 80 ALL patients and 80 healthy controls were enrolled. The intravenous blood samples were obtained from all patients and controls. The extracted DNA from blood samples underwent sodium bisulfite treatment. Thereafter, methylation levels in the promoter regions of lncRNAs RP11-137H2.4, RP11-624c23.1, RP11-203E8, RP11-446E9, and RP11-68118.10 were evaluated using methylation specific‑high resolution melting (MS‑HRM). Moreover, the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was performed to examine the sensitivity and specificity of the tests. Results The methylation levels of all studied lncRNAs including RP11-137H2.4 (P =0.001837), RP11-624c23.1 (P = 0.000003), RP11-203E8 (P = 0.000092), RP11-446E9 (P = 0.02447), and RP11-68118.10 (P =0.000086) were significantly increased. ROC curve analysis also showed that all lncRNAs could be used as diagnostic markers. Conclusion This study showed that methylation alterations of lncRNAs could be considered as novel biomarkers for early detection of ALL. Furthermore, owing to the possible role of studied lncRNAs as tumor suppressors, they could be reliable treatment targets for methylation modifications. Further research is still required to elucidate the role of these lncRNAs in ALL etiology.
Recent Progress in Development of Polo-Like Kinase 1 Inhibitors: Efforts So Far
Authors: Sawant Ramesh L. , Wadekar Jyoti B. , Ukirde Rushikesh D. , Barkade Ganesh D.
Published: September 2021

Polo-like kinase 1(Plk1) plays an important role in the inhibition of cell proliferation and which is come under the family of serine/threonine-protein kinase. Which is a highly specific target for cancer therapy. In some clinical studies, Plk1 has been identified as a target for cancer. Currently, so many scientists are working on the development of the Plk1 inhibitors and so many scientists and researchers thinking about working on it. Recent strategy for Plk1 inhibition is the development of small molecule inhibitors which will inhibit the Plk1 through the ATP-binding site of the Plk. Now new generation Plk1 inhibitors being tested clinically which are targeting polo box domain. This review highlights the recent progress made in the development of Plk1 inhibitors as anticancer agents.
Acyclovir as a Potential Adjuvant Therapy in COVID-19 Treatment Regimens
Authors: Heidary Fatemeh , Madani Sedigheh , Gharebaghi Reza , Asadi-amoli Fahimeh
Published: September 2021

Introduction: There are successful reports of the concomitant management of herpes infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), using both acyclovir (ACV) and COVID-19 treatment regimens. Furthermore, ACV has been proposed to effectively treat COVID-19, through various mechanisms, such as inhibition of viral proteases, multiple viral gene expressions, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP). Therefore, this study aimed to review the reported cases of patients with concomitant herpes infection and COVID-19, receiving concurrent antiviral drugs for herpetic lesions. Methods: A search was done to find the relevant articles, published between December 2019 and December 2020, with no language limitations, in the PubMed database, using the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms related to herpes simplex virus or herpes zoster (namely, shingles) combined with COVID-19. Accordingly, the reports of the concomitant herpes infection and COVID-19, receiving concurrent antiviral drugs for herpetic lesions were included. Results: Out of 90 articles, 11 records reporting the cases of herpes infection and concurrent laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, receiving antiherpetic therapies, were reviewed. There were 28 patients (age range of 7-82 years) with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, concomitant with reactivation of herpes infection, receiving antiviral drugs alongside candidate COVID-19 treatment regimens, but no mortality. The mean (standard deviation [SD] range) age of these 28 patients during treatment was 56.4 (18.6 [7-82]) years, and the majority were male (n=18, 64.3%). A total number of 20 patients had also received ACV and eight cases had been administered with other two antiviral compounds, including seven cases with valacyclovir, and one case with famciclovir, with no mortality. Conclusion: The potential use of ACV, as an add-on therapy, along with candidate COVID-19 treatment regimens was proposed in this study. However, further clinical trials are recommended to test this hypothetical adjuvant therapy.
A mini review of neuropharmacological effects of Rosa damascena Herrm.
Authors: Beheshti Farimah , Ahmadabady Somaieh , Yousef Baghcheghi , Anaeigoudari Akbar , Hosseini Mahmoud
Published: September 2021

Background: Rosa damascena Herrm (R. damascena) is a species of the Rosaceae family. The R. damascena has been shown to improve depression, anxiety and grief, it also suppresses allergic reactions and migraine headache. In addition, amelioration of learning and memory deficits, delay in onset of seizure attacks, alleviation of pain and improvement of sleep disorders have been attributed to extract and essential oil of R. damascena. This review was conducted to integrate the neuropharmacological effects of R. damascena. Methods: Employed scientific databases for collecting information were including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar. Results: The results of animal and clinical trial studies indicate that the extract of R. damascena and its essential oil apply useful therapeutic effects on depressant and anxiety- like behaviors, epileptic seizures, learning and memory impairments, sleep disturbances and pain. Conclusion: Based on scientific findings, the neuroprotective effects of R. damascena can be mainly linked to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Development of a Nanocluster-Based Platform for Determination of Sofosbuvir
Authors: Karimzadeh Zahra , Jouyban Abolghasem , Rahimpour Elaheh
Published: September 2021

Background: Sofosbuvir is a potent direct-acting antivirus agent that has been listed as a promising medicine for the treatment of all genotypes of hepatitis C virus. As antiviral drugs could be metabolized to their associated compounds and toxicologically and pharmacologically interfere with the parent drugs, identifying the therapeutic range of drugs would be notable. Methods: In the current study, copper nanoclusters (Cu NCs) are synthesized during the reduction of copper nitrate with hydrazine hydrate in a protected media and used as a nanoprobe for the determination of sofosbuvir in plasma samples. Herein, synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (SFS) is used for monitoring of fluorescence variation of nanoprobe owing to the excessive benefits compared with the traditional fluorescence. Results: SFS peak of Cu NCs has appeared at 355 nm with ∆λ=80 nm which is decreased in the presence of sofosbuvir. To optimize the reaction factors, a response surface methodology is used and in the optimized conditions, a linear concentration-response plot is obtained in a range of 0.05-6.0 µg mL−1 with a limit of detection of 0.0147 µg mL−1. Conclusion: The developed method also reveals good repeatability and selectivity for sofosbuvir in plasma samples.
Broad-spectrum Cannabis oil alleviates behavioral symptoms associated with stress-related anxiety and depression in mice
Authors: de Assis Pollyana Mendonça , Ferrarini Eduarda Gomes , Baldasso Gabriela Mantovani , Paes Rodrigo Sebben , Gouvêa Murilo Chaves , Segundo Carlos Espínola Neto , Borrelli Francesca , Brandão Marcos Antônio Fernandes , Capasso Raffaelle , Dutra Rafael Cypriano , Raposo Nádia Rezende Barbosa
Published: September 2021

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that manifests through a broad range of symptoms and shares several phenotypes with anxiety and depression. Refractory PTSD affects 10 – 30% of the patients and highlights the need for alternative pharmacotherapy. The suggested involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) with the emotional processes has enlightened the use of Cannabis sp. Then, this study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of a broad-spectrum Cannabis oil on anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors triggered by stressors from combined nature. In addition, this study investigated the effect of the oil on central cannabinoid receptor 1 and serum levels of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors. Methods: Mice were randomized into five groups (vehicle; Cannabis oil; fluoxetine; single oral dose) and submitted to acute restraint and chronic unpredictable stress. Then, they were behaviorally assessed in the elevated plus-maze test (EPMT), forced swimming test (FST), splash test (ST), and open field test (OFT). The tetrad cannabinoid assay evaluated the central effect of the oil. Serum biomarkers levels were measured by a multiplex bead-based assay. Results: Cannabis oil (0.1 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly reduced the anxiety-like behavior in EPMT in the acute restraint stress model (p < 0.05) as compared to vehicle. Moreover, compared to the vehicle, Cannabis oil significantly reverted the despair and anhedonic-like behaviors in FST (p < 0.05) and ST (p < 0.05), respectively, in chronically stressed mice. Yet, compared to vehicle, therapy with Cannabis oil did not induce cannabinoid-tetrad (p < 0.0001); downregulated granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF; p < 0.01) and advanced glycation end-products (RAGE; p < 0.0001); and upregulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; p < 0.01) serum levels. Conclusion: Altogether, our data suggest the potential of the broad-spectrum Cannabis oil to improve symptoms related to anxiety and depression caused by traumatic events.
Pinus roxburghii constituents augment human lymphocytes mediated cytotoxicity towards cancer cells.
Authors: Gullilat Henok , Saini Adesh k , Kumari Reena , Chandan Gourav , Saini Reena V
Published: September 2021

Background: Pinus roxburghii has been used in the Himalayan region as folkloric remedy while nothing is yet known about its immunomodulatory potential. Methods: The crude extracts of green and fallen pine needles were subjected to sequential fractionation to get partially purified fractions. Human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) were used to analyze immunoenhancing potential of these fractions. Microcytotoxicity assay was employed to investigate improved cancer cells killing capabilities of PBL against various cancer cell lines. GC-MS was carried out to identify the major compounds in the bioactive fractions. Results: The lymphocyte proliferation assay depicted the immunoenhancing potential of extracts and fractions of fallen and green needles of P. roxburghii. The ethyl acetate fractions of both fallen and green needles displayed highest mitogenic activity on human PBL. Both fractions heightened the expression of cell surface markers (CD3, CD8, and CD56) and significantly increased the production of cytokines (IL-2, IFN-γ and TNF-α). The enhanced intracellular granulysin (immunomarker for activated CTLs and NK cells) expression also confirmed immune stimulatory potential of these fractions on human lymphocytes. The ethyl acetate fractions of pine needles enhanced the cytotoxicity of PBL towards various cancer cells (HCT-116, HeLa, PC-3 and A549) as compared to untreated PBL. GC-MS analysis showed presence of major compounds like 3-α-mannobiose, octakis (trimethylsilyl) ether, methyloxime in ethyl acetate fraction of the green needles and cyclodecasiloxane, eicosamethyl in ethyl acetate fraction of the fallen needles. Conclusion: The bioactive fractions of the fallen and green needles of P. roxburghii stimulate cancer cells killing potential of human lymphocytes.
Tadalafil modulates intracerebroventricular streptozotocin-induced cognition and memory impairment in the young and middle middle-aged rats
Authors: Shahidi Siamak , Asadbegi Masoumeh , Hashemi-Firouzi Nasrin , Komaki Alireza , Mahmoodi Minoo
Published: September 2021

Background: Learning and memory may decline due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in older adults. A reduction in cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentration and an increase in phosphodiesterase activity have been reported in the process of aging. Although phosphodiesterase (PDE) type 5 inhibitor, Tadalafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction; PDE inhibitors possibly prevent cognition impairment in aging. This study was designed to investigate the effects of tadalafil on memory in middle-aged and young healthy and AD rats. Methods: Memory impairment was induced by intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of streptozotocin (STZ; 3 mg/kg) in AD rats. Male Wistar rats (middle-aged and young) were distributed into six groups as follows: two control, two AD, and two AD+tadalafil (1 mg/kg) groups. Saline or tadalafil was administered once a day orally for 40 consecutive days. Animals were tested using novel object recognition (NOR), passive avoidance learning (PAL), and Morris water maze (MWM) tests. Results: Aged AD rats exhibited a significant impairment in cognition in the NOR test and impaired learning and memory in PAL and MWM tests compared with the control aged rats. Tadalafil treatment in aged AD rats significantly improved the discrimination index in the NOR test, decreased the time spent in the dark compartment in the PAL test, and increased time spent in the target quadrant in MWM tests compared with aged AD rats. In young AD rats, treatment with tadalafil significantly enhanced cognition, learning, and memory in the NOR, PAL, and MWM tests compared with young AD rats treated with saline. Conclusion: Tadalafil treatment in aged rats improves cognition and memory after STZ-induced (ICV) memory impairment. It can be concluded that chronic treatment with tadalafil is protective against cognitive, learning, and memory impairment in both young and aged subjects.
Green Curmin reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and fibroblast-associated colon cancer migration
Authors: Povichit Nasapon , Muangthong Tharathip , Aimvijarn Parichaya , Suwannalert Prasit
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Green Curmin is a soluble curcumin extract product made in Thailand and reported to reduce gastric inflammation. Inflammatory cytokines including IL-1α, IL-6 and TNF-β play a crucial role in cancer cell migration, which is a major process towards poor prognosis. Objective: To investigate the effects of Green Curmin on colon cancer cell growth and migration, which involve the pro-inflammatory cytokines. Method: Curcuma longa, L. were extracted and named as Green Curmin. The cytotoxicity of the Green Curmin-treated HCT116-colon cancer cells was obtained by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry. The effect of the extract on cancer migration was investigated with wound healing assay. In addition, fibroblast-associated cancer migration was confirmed by using Transwell migration assay. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were also determined. Results: Green Curmin had cytotoxicity in the induced-cancer cell apoptosis at concentrations of 1 and 5 mg/ml. However, at concentrations of 0.05 and 0.1 mg/ml (non-toxicity dose), andreduced colon cancer migration and fibroblast associated-cancer migration. They also suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines expression including IL-1α, IL-6 and TNF-β in colon cancer cells and IL-6 in fibroblast cells. Conclusion: Green Curmin suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduced fibroblast associated-cancer migration.
A brain-based model of language instruction: from theory to practice
Authors: Iranmanesh Farzaneh , Haddad Narafshan Mehry , Golshan Mohammad
Published: September 2021

Background: A recent trend in second language acquisition and learning has been oriented towards brain-based studies and its association with brain development and plasticity. There are currently unprecedented opportunities for contemporary understanding of the neurological basis of second language (L2) learning owing to recent advances in cognitive neuroscience. Brain functional and structural investigations have contributed remarkably to biological explanations of language acquisition in addition to behavioral explorations. Methods: This study used a meta-analysis of previous findings of functional neuroimaging studies to elucidate the neuroanatomy of language learning from a functional perspective. By synthesizing existing literature, brain activation areas associated with different language learning skills and their convergence and overlap with other areas of activation for other cognitive and motor skills are extracted to reveal consistent functional areas of the brain. The current study attempts to link psycholinguistic research and cognitive neuroscience in the mediation of L2 learning and teaching. This review paper begins with a theoretical view of brain structure and function and concludes with a practical model of brain-based language instruction, resulting in a deeper understanding of the field. Results: Organized, conjoining cognitive neuroscience findings and L2 acquisition and learning approaches provide an opportunity for collaboration in cross-disciplinary studies. They provide new insights into how our brain represents languages. This article reviews recent advancements in our understanding of the brain; structural and functional organization of the brain; the role the brain plays in emotion, cognition, and development; and its consequent implication in language instruction. In effect, taking neurocognitive findings into account may have potential in developing brain-based tasks for the benefit of second language instruction in educational settings. Based on the revealed structural and functional areas of the brain and their networks of connection and interaction, manipulating areas of demanded activity may be as efficient as doing physical exercise to strengthen muscles. Conclusion: Developing a systematic model of second language instruction compatible with brain functions and patterns can benefit the rate and proficiency of language learners, thus improving language teaching and learning outcomes. This paper will aid the quest for utilizing general information of brain functions and related methods in developing practical, efficient language instruction as well as enhancing interdisciplinary research studies in both language and cognitive neuroscience.
Corneal neurotisation for neurotrophic keratopathy with a sural nerve autograft: a case report
Authors: Moore David , Samarawickrama Chameen , Tumuluri Krishna , Ngo Quan
Published: September 2021

Neurotrophic keratopathy is a corneal disease characterised by reduced corneal sensation. Corneal neurotization is the transfer of healthy donor nerve tissue to the cornea to restore sensation. An 11-year-old male presented with reduced Mackie Stage 1 neurotrophic keratopathy from de-bulking of a cerebellopontine angle arachnoid cyst. He underwent minimally invasive indirect corneal neurotization with a sural nerve autograft to ipsilateral supratrochlear nerve and cornea. Close and objective post-operative monitoring of donor sites, the cornea, visual acuity, and tear production clearly demonstrate the efficacy of this technique, and the timeline of clinical improvement.
The role of scar massage in cleft lip surgery
Authors: Zandavalli Cordova Leonardo , Alexander William , Chong David
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Despite advances in surgical technique for cleft lip, minimal evidence exists for methods of scar management, particularly scar massage. Some parents express concern that lip massage creates pain and distress to their children. This study aims to determine whether scar massage has enough cosmetic advantage to justify its use.
Method: We reviewed 33 unilateral complete cleft lip repairs performed at our institution. Information on repair technique, suture material and scar management were recorded. Parent questionnaires and clinical photography were used with a panel of eight trained blinded observers asked to assess photos taken 24 months postoperatively. Scars were graded using a scale of 1 (very poor) to 5 (excellent). Twenty patients were included.
Ethics approval was obtained from The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne Research Ethics and Governance office with HREC reference number QA/60562/RCHM-2019.
Results: Frequency of scar massage was not associated with a better scar score (p= 0.36). Both the technique of repair and type of suture material used had greater effect on scar grading than massage therapy.
Discussion: Problematic scarring following cleft lip surgery is a challenging outcome. This is the first study aiming to explore the effect of scar massage following cleft lip surgery.
Conclusion: We found no conclusive evidence to support the use of scar massage in the postoperative care of cleft lip patients. Limitations include the retrospective nature of the study, low patient numbers and heterogeneity of surgical techniques. Nevertheless, there was no correlation seen between the frequency of massage and scar quality. Lip scar massage can cause significant pain to patients and distress to their family, warranting further studies to justify its use.
Acute carpal tunnel syndrome as first presentation of amyloidosis: a case report
Authors: Chahal Hardip , Athreya Prasad , Stewart David
Published: September 2021

N/A - Case Report
South Australian facial trauma: a population analysis of social economic deprivation and facial fractures
Authors: Diab Jason , Grave Benjamin , Flapper Walter , Anderson Peter , David David J , Moore Mark
Published: September 2021

Background: Trauma remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Australia. The objective of this South Australian study was to analyse epidemiological trends in facial fractures and assess the relationship between socioeconomic disadvantage and clinical outcomes. Part one of this paper includes methods and results; part two includes discussion and conclusion. The two papers should be read together.
Method: A retrospective analysis of the relationship was conducted between socioeconomic disadvantage and facial fractures. All paediatric and adult patients with facial fractures who attended the Royal Adelaide Hospital and the Women’s and Children’s Hospital Adelaide between January
2012 and January 2017 either as in- or outpatients. The medical records, progress notes, imaging and operative notes from plastics, craniofacial and oral maxillofacial surgery teams were retrospectively collated into a registry and reviewed. Ethics approval was granted from the RAH Human Research and Ethics Committee [HREC/17/RAH/402].
Results: A total of 2559 patients, 1976 males (77.2%) and 583 females (22.8%), sustained a facial fracture. The most disadvantaged group had the highest proportion of facial fractures (36.9%), with the highest incidence in the 25–34 age group (22.4%). Assaults were the most common injury with decreasing odds as socioeconomic advantage increased (p<0.05). Orbitozygomatic fractures were the most common type of facial fracture (27.7%). Indigenous patients were more likely (OR=2.8) to have surgery compared to non–indigenous patients (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in length of stay between socioeconomic groups (F(4,964.387)=2.091, p = 0.080).
Conclusion: Socioeconomic status strongly influences the mechanisms on injury, types of fracture and likelihood of surgery with the most disadvantaged having higher rates compared to the least disadvantaged.
Suffering in silence
Authors: Ashton Mark , Lee Mark
Published: September 2021

n/a
Collaborative research in Australasian plastic surgery
Authors: Stanley Guy HM , Hirth Melissa J , Findlay Michael W
Published: September 2021

Many specialist groups have developed clinical trial initiatives in response to the growing need for more collaborative research, and these are proliferating in multiple countries across the globe. The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), under the direction of Professor John Windsor, established the clinical trials network of Australia and New Zealand (CTANZ). CTANZ supports the Australasian clinical trials in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery (ACTPRAS) research group which has already facilitated two multicentre, international, collaborative studies.
How to do lower limb reconstruction using the keystone perforator island flap
Authors: Behan Felix
Published: September 2021

This guide summarises the keystone perforator island flap (KPIF) in lower limb reconstruction from the groin to the ankle.
Visual prosody supports reading aloud expressively for deaf readers
Authors: Renckens Maarten , De Raeve Leo , Nuyts Erik , Pérez Mena María , Bessemans Ann
Published: September 2021

Type is a wonderful tool to represent speech visually. Therefore, it can provide deaf individuals the information that they miss auditorily. Still, type does not represent all the information available in speech: it misses an exact indication of prosody. Prosody is the motor of expressive speech through speech variations in loudness, duration, and pitch. The speech of deaf readersis often less expressive because deafness impedes the perception and production of prosody. Support can be provided by visual cues that provide information about prosody—visual prosody—supporting both the training of speech variations and expressive reading.

We will describe the influence of visual prosody on the reading expressiveness of deaf readers between age 7 and 18 (in this study, ‘deaf readers’ means persons with any kind of hearing loss, with or without hearing devices, who still developed legible speech). A total of seven cues visualize speech variations: a thicker/thinner font corresponds with a louder/quieter voice; a wider/narrower font relates to a lower/faster speed; a font raised above/lowered below the baseline suggests a higher/lower pitch; wider spaces between words suggest longer pauses.

We evaluated the seven cues with questionnaires and a reading aloud test. Deaf readers relate most cues to the intendedspeech variation and read most of them aloud correctly. Only the raised cue is di#cult to connect to the intended speech variation at first, and a faster speed and lower pitch prove challenging to vocalize. Despite those two difficulties, this approach to visual prosody is elective in supporting speech prosody. The applied materials can form an example for typographers, type designers, graphic designers, teachers, speech therapists, and researchers developing expressive reading materials.
Pavel Nersessian: “Teaching Music- Only Through Pleasure”
Authors: Мирошникова Елизавета Викторовна
Published: September 2021

Выпускник блистательного класса Сергея Доренского, заслуженный артист России, профессор, концертирующий пианист Павел Нерсесьян - еще и востребованный педагог, который более тридцати лет преподает в Московской консерватории и почти десять лет - в Бостонском университете. Елизавета Мирошникова поговорила с Павлом о разнице между российской и американской системами музыкального образования, о том, что Павлу дала Московская консерватория и какие изменения в подходе к воспитанию музыкантов произошли за последние десятилетия.
Not Voice, but Brain Defines Singer's Career
Authors: Панкратова Елена
Published: September 2021

Карьеру вокалиста определяет не голос, а мозг Первая русская певица, выступавшая на Байройтском фестивале четыре сезона подряд в роли Кундри в «Парсифале» и Ортруды в «Лоэнгрине», одна из самых востребованных исполнительниц драматических партий в операх Пуччини, Штрауса и Вагнера, профессор Университета искусств в Граце по специальности «сольное пение» Елена Панкратова рассказала о проблемах воспитания молодых вокалистов в России и за рубежом. Материал подготовлен Натальей Кожевниковой.
THE EFFECT OF APPLYING GROUP INVESTIGATION METHOD ON STUDENTS’ ACHIEVEMENT IN WRITING DESCRIPTIVE TEXT
Authors: Asrul Nurmahyuni , Amaniarsih Dwi Suci , Juliana Juliana
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the Group Investigation method had a significant effect on student achievement in writing descriptive texts. This research is quantitative by conducting an experimental design. The population used in this study was students of X SMK Shandy Putra 2 Medan. The sample of this study was randomly selected by taking 25 students for the experimental and control classes. Advertisement Pre-test Post-test is given to determine student scores. The score was calculated using the t-test formula. The results showed that the value of t-observation (2.44)> t-table (2.01) with df (48), meaning that the Group Investigation Method can improve student achievement in writing descriptive texts. So, the researcher concludes that there is a significant effect of the Group Investigation Method on student achievement in writing descriptive texts. And finally, the researcher gives suggestions to apply the method, especially the Group Investigation Method because it will have a significant influence on student achievement in writing descriptive texts.  Keywords: Descriptive Text, Group Investigation.
Perancangan Tata Letak Stasiun Kerja dengan Menggunakan Metode Systematic Layout Planning
Authors: Hartari Elfania , Herwanto Dene
Published: September 2021

PT. Adhimix Precast Indonesia is engaged in the construction sector by producing concrete and construction. Layout design is needed so that the existing land can be utilized optimally and material transfer is more effective and efficient. This can affect the distance and time of the transfer so that the cost of moving can be minimized. In practice, the company's trajectory condition only has one path (trajectory) for alternating current and crossing production lines, so it is considered inefficient to move both goods and workers, coupled with the existence of land that is not used properly, therefore improvements are needed to the production floor layout. in order to minimize the cost of moving goods and have a definite path (trajectory). Systematic Layout Planning (SLP) is a method for redesigning a layout (re-layout) based on the results of distance optimization and Material Handling Costs (OMH). The amount of OMH in the initial layout (now) is Rp. 2,614,200 with a total track distance of 39.82m and OMH in the proposed layout with a total track distance of 19.17m, the result is Rp. 1,534,200, this proves that the proposed layout can be applied because there is a decrease in total OMH by 35.44% or Rp. 926,580. PT. Adhimix Precast Indonesia bergerak di bidang pembangunan dengan memproduksi beton dan konstruksi. Perancangan tata letak diperlukan agar lahan yang ada dapat dimanfaatkan dengan maksimal dan pepindahan material lebih efektif dan efisien. Hal ini dapat mempengaruhi besar jarak dan waktu perpindahan sehingga besar biaya perpindahan dapat diminimalkan. Pada pelaksanaannya kondisi lintasan perusahaan hanya memiliki satu jalur (lintasan) untuk arus bolak balik dan persilangan alur produksi maka dianggap tidak efisien untuk dilakukan perpindahan baik barang maupun pekerja, ditambah dengan adanya lahan yang tidak dimanfaatkan dengan baik oleh karena itu dibutuhkan perbaikan pada layout lantai produksi agar dapat meminimalkan biaya perpindahan barang dan memiliki jalur (lintasan) yang pasti. Systematic Layout Planning (SLP) merupakan metode untuk membuat perancangan ulang suatu layout (re-layout) berdasarkan hasil dari optimalisasi jarak dan Ongkos Material Handling (OMH). Besar OMH pada layout awal (sekarang) adalah Rp 2.614.200 dengan total jarak lintasan 39,82m dan OMH pada layout usulan dengan total jarak lintasan 19,17m didapat hasil sebesar Rp. 1.534.200, hal ini membuktikan bahwa layout usulan dapat diterapkan karena terjadi penurunan total OMH sebesar 35,44% atau Rp.
Pear (Pyrus communis L.) cultivars self-fertility
Authors:   M.F. Sydorenko Melitopol Research Fruit Growing Station of IH of NAAS of Ukraine, Tolstolik L.M.
Published: September 2021

The author presents the results of determining the self-fertility degree of forty pear cultivars, including the varieties and elite forms bred in Melitopol and those introduced, when pollinating with own pollen. That simulates the conditions of pollination in single-variety orchards. The analysis of the data obtained when studying while infructescense, showed that the varieties Forel zymova, Devo, Triumf Pakgama, Melitopolska 4103, Levavasser, Serpneva, Kiure, Kook Starking, Vesta, Yuzhanka turned out to be self-fertile ones. Four autogamous varieties, namely: Melitopolska 4103, Cook Starking, Devo and Triumph Pakgama appeared to possess the highest percentage of the actual fruit-setting, while the two latest ones – even high homeostatic coefficient concerning the relative fruits mass per 100 pollinated flowers. ‘Vesilna’, ‘Pryiemna’, ‘Doctor Til’, Kirgizskaia zimniaia’ proved to be self-sterile varieties.