bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative profiling of lactic acid bacteria isolates in optimized and spontaneous fermentation of cowpea leaves
Authors: Owade Joshua Ombaka , Abong' George Ooko , Okoth Michael Wandayi , Mwang'ombe Agnes Wakesho , Jobor Jared Omondi 
Published: January 2021

AbstractIn as much as spontaneous fermentation of cowpea leaves enhances product diversification, the process is rather slow with poor product quality. Limited work has been undertaken to provide input toward standardization of the process and enhancing of product quality. The current study sought to evaluate the in‐process fermentative bacteria profile changes due to the effect of optimization of fermentation process of cowpea leaves. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates from spontaneous and optimized fermentation were characterized using biochemical tests, whereby optimization was done using the Response Surface Methodology model of the central composite design in the Design Expert Software. The RSM models accounted for 89% and 60% variability in the response variables of pH and titratable acidity, respectively (p < .001). Increasing the sugar concentration and period of fermentation significantly (p < .05) increased the titratable acidity, while reducing the pH. The optimal fermentation parameters were established as sugar and salt concentrations of 5% and 2%, respectively, 16 days of fermentation, pH of 3.8 and titratable acidity of 1.22% with a desirability of 0.859. Of the 13 identified LAB isolates, Lactobacillus brevis and Lactococcus lactis dominated the onset stage of spontaneous fermentation whereas only Lactobacillus brevis dominated the onset stage of optimized fermentation. Additionally, the final stage with the dominant isolates of L. plantarum was longer in the spontaneous fermentation process than in the optimized process. Evidently, optimizing the fermentation process resulted in increasing dominance by heterofermenters in the production of soured cowpea leaves, with the yielded product having enhanced acidity.
Appendectomy in the surgical management of women with endometriosis and pelvic pain
Authors: Ross Whitney Trotter , Chu Amanda , Li Linda , Kunselman Allen R. , Harkins Gerald J. , Deimling Timothy A. , Benton Andrea S. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the role of appendectomy in surgical excision of endometriosis and to assess complications associated with appendectomy.MethodsRetrospective study of women undergoing appendectomy for pelvic pain and/or endometriosis during a primary gynecologic procedure.ResultsRecord review was performed for 609 women who underwent appendectomy between 2013 and 2019 for pelvic pain (6.9%, 42/609), stage I–II endometriosis (63.7%, 388/609), or stage III–IV endometriosis (29.4%, 179/609). Appendiceal endometriosis (AppE) was present in 14.9% (91/609); 2.4% without endometriosis (1/42, reference group), 7.0% with stage I–II endometriosis (27/388, odds ratio [OR] 3.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41–23.11, P = 0.278), and 35.2% with stage III–IV endometriosis (63/179, OR 22.24, 95% CI 2.99–165.40, P = 0.002). AppE was significantly associated with endometriosis present in other locations (OR 5.27, 95% CI 2.66–10.43, P < 0.001). The predicted probability of identifying AppE ranged from 6% with 0 positive endometriosis sites to 56% when 4 or more sites were identified. There were no complications related to the performance of an appendectomy.ConclusionWomen with chronic pelvic pain and/or endometriosis have an increased risk of AppE. Modern appendectomy at the time of gynecologic surgery is safe, with no associated complications in this study. Our findings support the consideration of appendectomy as part of the comprehensive surgical management of endometriosis.
Bangladeshi ready‐made garment development via ubiquitous and mobile computing
Authors: Ahad Taimur , Busch Peter , Blount Yvette , Picoto Winnie 
Published: January 2021

AbstractLittle is known about mobile‐based information system (hereafter MbUS) affordances in the manufacturing sector, particularly in the Bangladeshi ready‐made garment (hereafter RMG) industry ‐ the major contributor to the national economy. However, the sector faces challenges in communication, worker disempowerment, and long lead times to produce finished goods. Research suggests that MbUS has potential development impact to improve communication, co‐ordination, and empowerment. This study narrows the gap through utilizing affordance theory as a theoretical lens to examine MbUS affordance applied to Bangladeshi RMGs. Using 39 interviews, this research explores five MbUS affordances ‐ connectivity, mobility, agility, empowerment and governance, and their relationship to Bangladeshi RMGs. Furthermore, we identify empowerment as a crucial affordance rarely identified in prior RMG literature. Our findings have potential value to RMGs, government, and mobile telecommunications.
Histone deacetylase 10 exerts antitumor effects on cervical cancer via a novel microRNA‐223/TXNIP/Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Zhu Jinming , Han Shichao 
Published: January 2021

AbstractDysfunction of histone deacetylase 10 (HDAC10) has been suggested in the carcinogenesis of cervical cancer (CC). However, its association with microRNAs (miRNAs) in CC remains exclusive. Hence, this study aims to probe the role of HDAC10 in regulating CC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and its correlation with the screened‐out miRNA target. Microarray analysis and RT‐qPCR revealed that HDAC10 expressed poorly in CC cells relative to human immortalized endocervical cells (End1/E6E7). Moreover, HDAC10 downregulation predicted poor survival for patients with CC. Overexpression of HDAC10 reduced CC cell biological activities in vitro and tumor growth and lung metastases in vivo. miR‐223, upregulated in CC, was regulated by HDAC10 through histone acetylation, while miR‐223 inhibited the effects of HDAC10 overexpression in CC. miR‐223 targeted the 3′‐UTR of thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) and suppressed its expression, leading to increased CC development in vitro and in vivo. TXNIP overexpression impaired Wnt/β‐catenin pathway activity in CC cells.
A systematic review of preclinical in vivo testing of 3D printed porous Ti6Al4V for orthopedic applications, part I: Animal models and bone ingrowth outcome measures
Authors: Spece Hannah , Basgul Cemile , Andrews Caleb E. , MacDonald Daniel W. , Taheri Mitra L. , Kurtz Steven M. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractFor Ti6Al4V orthopedic and spinal implants, osseointegration is often achieved using complex porous geometries created via additive manufacturing (AM). While AM porous titanium (pTi) has shown clinical success, concerns regarding metallic implants have spurred interest in alternative AM biomaterials for osseointegration. Insights regarding the evaluation of these new materials may be supported by better understanding the role of preclinical testing for AM pTi. We therefore asked: (a) What animal models have been most commonly used to evaluate AM porous Ti6Al4V for orthopedic bone ingrowth; (b) What were the primary reported quantitative outcome measures for these models; and (c) What were the bone ingrowth outcomes associated with the most frequently used models? We performed a systematic literature search and identified 58 articles meeting our inclusion criteria. We found that AM pTi was evaluated most often using rabbit and sheep femoral condyle defect (FCD) models. Additional ingrowth models including transcortical and segmental defects, spinal fusions, and calvarial defects were also used with various animals based on the study goals. Quantitative outcome measures determined via histomorphometry including ''bone ingrowth'' (range: 3.92–53.4% for rabbit/sheep FCD) and bone‐implant contact (range: 9.9–59.7% for rabbit/sheep FCD) were the most common. Studies also used 3D imaging to report outcomes such as bone volume fraction (BV/TV, range: 4.4–61.1% for rabbit/sheep FCD), and push‐out testing for outcomes such as maximum removal force (range: 46.6–3092 N for rabbit/sheep FCD). Though there were many commonalities among the study methods, we also found significant heterogeneity in the outcome terms and definitions. The considerable diversity in testing and reporting may no longer be necessary considering the reported success of AM pTi across all model types and the ample literature supporting the rabbit and sheep as suitable small and large animal models, respectively. Ultimately, more standardized animal models and reporting of bone ingrowth for porous AM materials will be useful for future studies.
Cisplatin‐conjugated gold nanoparticles‐based drug delivery system for targeting hepatic tumors
Authors: Hassanen Eman I. , Korany Reda M. S. , Bakeer Adel M. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractCisplatin is a highly cytotoxic anticarcinogenic drug used to treat several kinds of solid tumors such as liver tumors. With the increase in the incidences associated with hepatic tumors and a lack of selectivity of cisplatin to cancer cells, it is important to explore new therapeutic strategies against them. The present study was designed to verify the ability of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) to improve the hepatotherapeutic effect of cisplatin against DENA‐induced hepatic tumors and to declare its ability to reduce the renal toxicity induced by cisplatin. Forty male Wistar rats were divided into two groups (n = 20): Group (A)—negative control and group (B)—model of hepatocellular tumor induction. After 4 months, each group was subdivided into four subgroups as the following: Group (1) received normal saline, Group (2) was treated by cisplatin, Group (3) was treated by GNPs, Group (4) was treated by GNPs–cisplatin conjugates. Our results revealed a marked elevation in liver and kidney function tests and oxidant levels with a reduction in antioxidant levels in the DENA‐administrated group. Remarkable histopathological alterations in the liver and kidney tissue sections were observed and confirmed by the overexpression of the immunohistochemical staining of placental glutathione S‐transferase, Hep Par 1, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Noticeable improvements in all the measurable toxicological parameters were recorded in the group treated with either GNPs or GNPs–cisplatin conjugate not observed in the group treated with cisplatin. We can conclude that GNPs not only improve the distribution of cisplatin, targeting it to the site of tumors, but it also reduces the renal toxicity induced by cisplatin, which are the primary concerns in cancer therapy.
Mandatory audit partner's rotation and corporate tax avoidance: Early evidence from form AP disclosure
Authors: Liu Chenyong , Xu Chunhao , Wang Xiaohong (Sara) 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThis study examines the impact of mandatory audit partner's rotation on corporate tax avoidance. Using audit partners’ information disclosed in Form AP, we find that companies generally increase their effective tax rates (ETRs) after audit partner's mandatory rotation, and the increase is specifically driven by companies hiring non‐Big four auditors. This implies that incoming auditors, especially those from non‐Big four accounting firms, are more conservative in tax issues. Further analysis suggests that companies engaging in less tax avoidance before and simultaneously purchasing tax services from their auditors have less increase in ETRs after an audit partner's rotation. The findings of this study assist both audit practitioners and tax regulators to better understand the impact of audit partner rotation on firm's tax behaviors.
Structural, spectroscopic, and theoretical investigations of (E)–methyl–3–(3,5–di–tert–butyl–2–hydroxybenzylideneamino)–4–methylbenzoate
Authors: Bingöl Alpaslan Yelda , Gökce Halil , Macit Mustafa , Kaya Serdal , Alpaslan Gökhan 
Published: January 2021

AbstractA novel Schiff base ((E)–methyl–3–(3,5–di–tert–butyl–2–hydroxybenzylideneamino)–4–methylbenzoate (MDM), C24H31NO3) at phenol–imine form with the OH⋯N intra–molecular hydrogen bond was synthesized. Its structural and spectroscopic characterizations were performed by using experimental (single crystal X–ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared [FT–IR], NMR chemical shift, and UV–vis spectroscopies) and theoretical (DFT/B3LYP/6‐311+G[2d,p] computational level) methods. X–ray diffraction investigation shows that the MDM crystallized in phenol–imine form with OH⋯N intra–molecular hydrogen bond. Detailed investigations of the presence and nature of the inter–molecular contacts within solid state crystal packing form of MDM were examined by Hirshfeld surface analysis. The intra–molecular electronic transitions in the compound were investigated and determined by UV–vis electronic absorption wavelengths and FMOs analyses. The structural, vibrational, and NMR chemical shift analyses of azomethine (CHN) and phenolic hydroxyl (OH) groups in MDM supported its phenol–imine structural formation.
Towards action research with trans women sex workers: Policy, space and social challenges
Authors: Zoli Anna , Johnson Katherine , Cingolani Giorgio , Pulcini Gianmarco 
Published: January 2021

AbstractTrans women face multiple social, economic and health inequalities and the impact of gender oppression and violence is even more profoundly experienced by trans women sex workers, although in culturally specific ways. This paper presents a pilot study conducted to explore and engage with the context of trans women sex workers in Lido Tre Archi, Italy. In line with the community psychology values of social justice, social change and participation, we outline our engagement process and key challenges observed when attempting action research with such a highly marginalised group. Data were collected in the form of ethnographic notes from informal consultations with different stakeholders and participant observations, and of documents (newspaper articles, picture captions) and were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings are organised in three themes relating to the social, policy and physical context in Lido Tre Archi demonstrating evidence of the contextual challenges and how they intertwine to generate a spiral of marginalisation and social exclusion for the participants. We take a collaborative and reflexive stance in our work and conclude with recommended steps and potential limitations to initiate an action research project.
An evaluation of My Strengths Training for Life™ for improving resilience and well‐being of young people experiencing homelessness
Authors: Quinton Mary L. , Clarke Fiona J. , Parry Benjamin J. , Cumming Jennifer 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThis community‐based study investigated whether (1) a novel sport psychology informed positive youth development program, My Strengths Training for Life™, improved resilience and well‐being and (2) young people differed in outcomes according to demographics (gender, ethnicity, social inclusion, and learning difficulty). A total of 246 young people (Mage = 19.74,SD = 2.31) living in a large housing service completed questionnaires on demographics, mental skills, and pre and postprogram resilience and well‐being. Baseline differences in resilience and well‐being existed for ethnicity and learning difficulty status but did not influence MST4Life™ outcomes. There was a significant improvement in resilience and well‐being over time, which was associated with mental skills development. Implications apply for policy, program commissioners, and research: (1) novel sport psychology interventions can improve the well‐being of disadvantaged youth, and (2) demographics at baseline should be considered in intervention planning and evaluation with this population.
miR‐21‐regulated M2 polarization of macrophage is involved in arsenicosis‐induced hepatic fibrosis through the activation of hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Xue Junchao , Xiao Tian , Wei Shaofeng , Sun Jing , Zou Zhonglan , Shi Ming , Sun Qian , Dai Xiangyu , Wu Lu , Li Junjie , Xia Haibo , Tang Huanwen , Zhang Aihua , Liu Qizhan 
Published: January 2021

AbstractArsenicosis induced by chronic exposure to arsenic is recognized as one of the main damaging effects on public health. Exposure to arsenic can cause hepatic fibrosis, but the molecular mechanisms by which this occurs are complex and elusive. It is not known if miRNAs are involved in arsenic‐induced liver fibrosis. We found that in the livers of mice exposed to arsenite, there were elevated levels of microRNA‐21 (miR‐21), phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p‐mTOR), and arginase 1 (Arg1); low levels of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN); and more extensive liver fibrosis. For cultured cells, arsenite‐induced miR‐21, p‐mTOR, and Arg1; decreased PTEN; and promoted M2 polarization of macrophages derived from THP‐1 monocytes (THP‐M), which caused secretion of fibrogenic cytokines, including transforming growth factor‐β1. Coculture of arsenite‐treated, THP‐M with LX‐2 cells induced α‐SMA and collagen I in the LX‐2 cells and resulted in the activation of these cells. Downregulation of miR‐21 in THP‐M inhibited arsenite‐induced M2 polarization and activation of LX‐2 cells, but cotransfection with PTEN siRNA or a miR‐21 inhibitor reversed this inhibition. Moreover, knockout of miR‐21 in mice attenuated liver fibrosis and M2 polarization compared with WT mice exposed to arsenite. Additionally, LN, PCIII, and HA levels were higher in patients with higher hair arsenic levels, and levels of miR‐21 were higher than controls and positively correlated with PCIII, LN, and HA levels. Thus, arsenite induces the M2 polarization of macrophages via miR‐21 regulation of PTEN, which is involved in the activation of hepatic stellate cells and hepatic fibrosis. The results establish a previously unknown mechanism for arsenicosis‐induced fibrosis.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell exosome delivered Zinc Finger Protein activation of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator
Authors: Villamizar Olga , Waters Shafagh A. , Scott Tristan , Grepo Nicole , Jaffe Adam , Morris Kevin V. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractCystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that results in a multi‐organ disease with progressive respiratory decline which leads to premature death. Mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene disrupts the capacity of the protein to function as a channel, transporting chloride ions and bicarbonate across epithelial cell membranes. Small molecule treatments targeted at potentiating or correcting CFTR have shown clinical benefits, but are only effective for a small percentage of individuals with specific CFTR mutations. To overcome this limitation, we engineered stromal‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and HEK293 cells to produce exosomes containing a novel CFTR Zinc Finger Protein fusion with transcriptional activation domains VP64, P65 and Rta to target the CFTR promoter (CFZF‐VPR) and activate transcription. Treatment with CFZF‐VPR results in robust activation of CFTR transcription in patient derived Human Bronchial Epithelial cells (HuBEC). We also find that CFZF‐VPR can be packaged into MSC and HEK293 cell exosomes and delivered to HuBEC cells to potently activate CFTR expression. Connexin 43 appeared to be required for functional release of CFZF‐VPR from exosomes. The observations presented here demonstrate that MSC derived exosomes can be used to deliver a packaged zinc finger activator to target cells and activate CFTR. The novel approach presented here offers a next‐generation genetic therapy that may one day prove effective in treating patients afflicted with Cystic fibrosis.
Landmarks to identify segmental borders of the liver: A review prepared for PAM‐HBP expert consensus meeting 2021
Authors: Wakabayashi Taiga , Benedetti Cacciaguerra Andrea , Ciria Ruben , Ariizumi Shunichi , Durán Manuel , Golse Nicolas , Ogiso Satoshi , Abe Yuta , Aoki Takeshi , Hatano Etsuro , Itano Osamu , Sakamoto Yoshihiro , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Yamamoto Masakazu , Wakabayashi Go ,   Study Group of Precision Anatomy for Minimally Invasive Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic surgery (PAM‐HBP surgery)
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundIn preparation for the upcoming consensus meeting in Tokyo in 2021, this systematic review aimed to analyze the current available evidence regarding surgical anatomy of the liver, focusing on useful landmarks, strategies and technical tools to perform precise anatomic liver resection (ALR).MethodsA systematic review was conducted on MEDLINE/PubMed for English articles and on Ichushi database for Japanese articles until September 2020. The quality assessment of the articles was performed in accordance with the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN).ResultsA total of 3169 manuscripts were obtained, 1993 in English and 1176 in Japanese literature. Subsequently, 63 English and 20 Japanese articles were selected and reviewed. The quality assessment of comparative series and case series was revealed to be usually low; only six articles were qualified as high quality. Forty‐two articles focused on analyzing intersegmental/sectional planes and their relationship with specific hepatic landmark veins. In 12 articles, the authors aimed to investigate liver surface anatomic structures, while 36 articles aimed to study technological tools and contrast agents for surgical segmentation during ALR. Although Couinaud's classification has remained the cornerstone in daily diagnostic/surgical practices, it does not always portray the realistic liver segmentation and there has been no standardization on which a single strategy should be followed to perform precise ALR.ConclusionsA global consensus should be pursued in order to establish clear guidelines and proper recommendations to perform ALR in the era of minimally invasive surgery.