bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of MTHFD Gene Polymorphisms and Maternal Smoking With Risk of Congenital Heart Disease: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Song Xinli , Li Qiongxuan , Diao Jingyi , Li Jinqi , Li Yihuan , Zhang Senmao , Wang Tingting , Zhao Lijuan , Chen Letao , Wei Jianhui , Shu Jing , Liu Yiping , Sun Mengting , Huang Peng , Qin Jiabi 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: MTHFD may affect the embryonic development by elevated homocysteine levels, DNA synthesis and DNA methylation, but limited number of genetic variants of MTHFD was focused on the association with congenital heart disease (CHD). This study examined the role of MTHFD and maternal smoking in CHD risk, and investigated their interaction effects in Chinese populations. Methods: A case-control study of 464 mothers of CHD infants and 504 mothers of health controls was performed. The exposures of interest were maternal tobacco exposure, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of maternal MTHFD gene. The logistic regression model was used for accessing the strength of association.Results: Mothers exposed to secondhand smoke during three months before pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13-2.15) and in the first trimester of pregnancy (aOR = 2.24; 95%CI: 1.57-3.20) were observed an increased risk of CHD. Our study also found that polymorphisms of maternal MTHFD gene at rs1950902 (AA vs. GG: aOR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.01-2.97), rs2236222 (GG vs. AA: aOR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.38-4.12), rs1256142 (GA vs.GG: aOR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.01-2.45) and rs11849530 (GG vs. AA: aOR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.02-2.77) were significantly associated with higher risk of CHD. Furthermore, we found the different degrees of interaction effects between polymorphisms of the MTHFD gene including rs1950902, rs2236222, rs1256142, rs11849530 and rs2236225, and maternal tobacco exposure.Conclusions: Maternal polymorphisms of MTHFD gene at rs1950902, rs2236222, rs1256142 and rs11849530, maternal tobacco exposure and their interactions are significantly increased the risk of CHD in offspring. However, more studies in different ethnic populations with a larger sample and prospective designs are required to confirm our findings.Trial registration: Registration number: ChiCTR1800016635; http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=28300&htm=4
Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Preputial and Penile Abnormalities Among Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision Clients in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa
Authors: Quazi Mohammad A , Jacobs Donna , Dikgale Freck , Nyasulu Peter , Ndirangu James 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
BackgroundVoluntary Medical male circumcision (VMMC) has been identified as a cost-effective intervention for reducing the transmission of HIV. KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the second most populous province in South Africa, has the highest HIV prevalence, estimated at 27%. VMMC reduces the transmission of HIV by up to 60%; at initiation of VMMC Program in 2010, the KZN VMMC target was 2.4 million, almost 50% of the national target, among males aged 15-49 years. This paper documents the prevalence of penile abnormalities and related factors among clients undergoing VMMC procedures in KwaZulu-Natal province. MethodsA retrospective review of files was conducted among VMMC clients at the Centre of Excellence (a referral centre in the KZN province) and data was captured from a standardized client form into an Excel database. The data was analysed using STATA 15.0. Univariate and multivariate analysis were done using Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with penile abnormalities. ResultsDuring the review period, 6,650 males accessed VMMC services; the median age was 13 years (IQR 9 – 21). A total of 227 (3.4%) of the clients were HIV-Positive, about 80% of these aged ≥13 years. Upon physical examination, 5,366 (80.6%) of the VMMC clients had penile abnormalities (Mild 781, Moderate 2,282, Severe 2,303). Overall, 43% of these clients had severe penile abnormalities (SPA); two-thirds were aged below 13 years and 10% aged above 34 years. The three most common Penile Abnormalities (PA) were phimosis (3,686; 55.4%), tight ring (3,669; 55.2%) and overhanging foreskin (2,966; 44.6%). The odds of penile abnormality were significantly lower in older clients aged 13–18 years (AOR = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.59–0.87) and above 18 years (AOR = 0.15; 95% CI = 0.10–0.29) compared to younger clients aged below 13 years.ConclusionsA higher prevalence of Penile Abnormalities was observed among the younger clients except for balanitis / posthitis. Recommendations for VMMC program include the fact that all clients need to be examined thoroughly preoperatively to exclude any abnormalities. Any clients with severe abnormalities should be referred for specialist examination and surgery.
Recycling EVA Waste: An Opportunity For The Footwear Industry - Rheological Properties of EVA Waste Composites Using Torque Rheometry
Authors: Júnior C. Z. Paiva , Mendonca A. V. , Fim F. C. , Silva Lucineide Balbino 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Ethylene vinyl acetate blends (EVA-B) (at 19 and 28wt% vinyl acetate) were supplied by the footwear industry, along with an industrial (reference) compound labeled EVA-ref. EVA waste is an industrial sub-product crosslinked (injection sprues and unused midsoles), that was particulate through a micronization process and labeled as EVA-w. The objective of the present work was to evaluate processability and rheological parameters (using torque rheometry) when adding EVA-w to EVA-B. The EVA-w particle size distribution was bimodal, with an average diameter of 53.06 μm, and volume (%) D (10), D (50), and D (90) respectively equal to 12.47, 31.83, and 135.18 μm. However, this ample size distribution did not affect the composite mixing. FTIR-ATR analysis showed that no new crosslinking occurred after processing the composites. Low unit mixing energy (Wu), and mechanical work (as represented by DT values: torque stabilization temperature (Tstab) - test temperature (Ttest)) were required to mix the composites. Consequently, the dispersion of the EVA-w particles within the molten EVA-B occurred during the first 3 min of mixing, making it easier. The sensibility to shear-thinning behavior was more pronounced when adding EVA-w, especially at 25 phr. The m parameter was smaller in the composites as compared to the EVA-ref, and when adding EVA-w at 35 phr, it showed a tendency to increase. The average shear stress (E) of the 15 phr composite was similar to that of the EVA-ref compound. Yet for 25 phr, a higher value was observed. The adding of EVA-w made the non-Newtonian behavior of EVA-B less pronounced. For all samples, the average viscosity (t) decreased with average shear rate (h), revealing a pseudoplastic behavior.
A Novel Frameshift Mutation in The NHS Gene Causes Nance-Horan Syndrome in a Chinese Family
Authors: Wen Huaming , Xiaosheng Huang , Li Qianwen , Wang Yan , Shaoyi Mei , Jiamin Cai , Zhao Jun 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background:Nance-Horan syndrome (NHS), also known as cataract-tooth syndrome, is a rare X-linked genetic disorder characterized by congenital cataract as well as dental and craniofacial abnormalities caused by mutations in the NHS gene.In this study,we describe a Chinese family with a frameshift mutation in NHS associated Nance-Horan syndrome, thus expanding the mutational spectrum of this gene.Methods:Four members (including three patients) had their ocular bodies examined in the presence of congenital cataracts featuring dental and craniofacial abnormalities. DNA samples of family members were extracted from peripheral venous blood, and known pathogenic genes of congenital cataracts were panel sequenced.Results:In the proband, a novel frameshift mutation (c.1694_1697delGAATinsCATTCG) was identified in the NHS gene. Sanger sequencing of family members verified that the mutation completely co-segregated with the disease in the pedigree.Conclusion:The congenital cataract family was diagnosed as having Nance-Horan syndrome (NHS), and the NHS frameshift mutation was determined to cause the disease in this family. This is a novel NHS gene mutation that has not been reported previously.
Role of Private Healthcare Facilities in Public Health Programs: A Study in Greater Accra Region
Authors: Salam Abdul-Rahaman Abdul , Aseweh Abor Patience 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Public health is a collective responsibility of everybody. Private sector plays a key role in the functioning of many sectors in both developed and developing countries which includes provision of public health services. However, there is dearth of studies on the role of private health delivery institution in public health programs in Ghana. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the role of private health care delivery institutions in public health programs in Ghana.Methods: Resource dependency theory was used as the theoretical framework. The study used mixed method to derive the advantages of both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The sample size was fifteen private healthcare facilities in Greater Accra region. It of ten private for-profit healthcare facilities and five mission facilities. Records of public health activities of the private health care institutions from 2015 to 2019 were collected from the selected health facilities for the quantitative analysis. In-depth interview was used to gather the qualitative data. Descriptive statistics and Welch two sample t-test simple to analyse the quantitative data. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data.Results: The results of the study indicate that, private for-profit healthcare facilities were not taking part in designing public health programs in Ghana. However, the mission facilities were consulted in the policy making process due to their organised nature. Conclusion: There is also a significant difference in the number of public health cases undertaken by mission and private for-profit health care facilities. The study indicates that private health care facilities undertake a lot of public health programs. However, mission facilities accommodate more public health cases due to the support they received from the state and other organisations in terms of resources.
Medicinal Plants Against Coronavirus (SARS-COV-2) in Morocco Via Computational Virtual Screening Approach
Authors: CHEBAIBI Mohamed , Bousta Dalila , Gonçalves Rene Francisco Boschi , Hoummani Hasnae , Achour Sanae 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
With the spread of the coronavirus in all countries of the world and in the absence of a vaccine or effective treatment to inhibit the infection. Several medicinal plants are used by the Moroccan population either to treat or prevent infection. The frequent use of its plants without documentation of their effectiveness on the Covid-19 is justified by cultural and economic reasons and their pharmacological activity scientifically proven. The objective of this study is to evaluate the inhibitory effect of the main polyphenols and flavonoids of Syzygium aromaticum and citrus limon as well as the main organosulfur compounds of garlic against coronavirus 6lu7 protease and 6y2e protease using in-silico molecular docking analysis.The COVID-19 3CLpro/Mpro (PDB ID: 6LU7) and free enzyme of the SARS-CoV-2 (2019- nCoV) main protease (PBD ID: 6Y2E) structures were obtained from the https://www.rcsb.org/ website in .PDB format. The COVID-19 3CLpro/Mpro (PDB ID: 6LU7) and main protease (PBD ID: 6Y2E) were prepared using autodock tools from MGL Tools package http://mgltools.scripps.edu/. The reactive molecular dynamics simulations were performed using the software LAMMPS and the ReaxFF force field. In this force field, the general energy functionWe have docked 34 natural products belonging to the three medicinal plants. In 6LU7 protease, 24 compounds exhibited a binding affinity greater than or equal to -6 Kcal/mol. While, in 6Y2E protease, 6 compounds exhibited a binding affinity greater than or equal to -6 Kcal/mol.We found that ellagic acid, narirutin, neoeriocitrin and neohesperidin are highly suggested as an inhibitor of SARS-COV-2.
Exploring the Promoting Mechanisms of Bovine Serum Albumin, Lignosulfonate, Polyethylene Glycol for Lignocellulose Saccharification from Perspective of Molecular Interactions with Cellulase
Authors: Wang peiepi , Wang Qingcheng , Liu Tian , Guo Jiaqi , Jin Yongcan , Xiao Huining , song junlong 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Bovine serum albumin (BSA), polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lignosulfonate (LS) have been extensively employed as synergistic agents in lignocellulose saccharification. Nevertheless, the promoting mechanisms have not been fully understood and there are a number of controversial opinions existed. All attention has been paid to the interactions between respective additive and substrate. However, rarely attention has been paid to the interactions between additives and cellulase. The interaction between respective additive and cellulase is actually more important since cellulase interacts with the additives before it contacts with substrate.Results: This investigation showed that BSA and LS could bind to cellulase to form complexes, whereas PEG did not. However, PEG had a high affinity to lignin or lignin derivatives. The complexes of Cell-BSA consisted of one BSA and four cellulase molecules; while the complexes of Cell-LS were composed of one cellulase and four LS molecules in the testing conditions. Regarding to the enzymatic hydrolytic efficiency for Avicel and lignocellulose substrates, the results showed that BSA and PEG promoted the enzymatic hydrolysis for both substrates, while LS had a promoting effect for lignocellulose only and inhibited some extent for Avicel. Conclusions: This study showed that synergistic agents of LS, BSA, and PEG have different interaction modes with cellulase. BSA and LS can form complexes with cellulase and the formed complexes prevent them from nonproductive binding by residue lignin; what’s more, the cellulase-BSA complexes improve the hydrolytic capability of pristine enzyme whereas cellulase-LS complexes reduce. The promoting mechanism of PEG has to be attributed to two aspects: one is to prevent cellulase from nonproductive binding to residue lignin by forming a thin layer that actually serves as steric hindrance on residue lignin; the other is the structure change of substrate induced by PEG addition. This investigation will help us to understand the sophisticated interactions among the components in the complicated enzymatic system, especially the interactions between enzymes and synergistic agents. It will be helpful in the design and utilization of synergistic additives in the lignocellulose biorefinery process as well.
Inhalable Particulate (PM10) Emission Externalities From Overburden Dumps and Associated Health Risk Assessment in Densely Populated Coalfield
Authors: Srivast Amartanshu , Kumar Ambasht , Vaibhav Kumar , Elumalai Suresh Pandian 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Overburden (OB) dumps and associated haulage are the significant contributors to increased respirable particulate levels in mining areas. Earlier studies have only focused on reporting seasonal variation of size-segregated particle mass concentration, limiting the role of specific emission sources on sensitive receptors nearby. This study estimated the impact of OB dump expansion (between years 2016 to 2018) with associated haulage on spatial pattern of particulate concentration, associated health effects, and health cost. Furthermore, a model to identify critical health risk zones was also developed. Haulage of OB and its unloading contributed to a significant increase in particulate concentration on the windward side. Moreover, OB dumping resulted in a higher respiratory dose for workers and inhabitants nearby the OB dumpsite. The results indicated that coughing along with lower respiratory problems were the dominant health effects. Moreover, the cases of lower respiratory symptoms due to PM10 emissions from OB dumps increased in 2018. The risk potential model indicated a 4.9% increase in high risk category for population exposed to PM10 emission from OB expansion within two years. An alternative management option was proposed to reduce health risk potential. The control resulted in 73% peak concentration curtailment and 84% reduction in the surface area exceeding prescribed PM10 (100 µg/m3) levels. The said study will be useful in demarcating risk zones and findings have particular significance for dispersion of particulates emanating from OB dumps.
Giant Extra-Ordinary Near Infrared Transmission from Seemingly Opaque Plasmonic Metasurface: Sensing Applications
Authors: Verma Sagar Kumar , Srivast Sachin Kumar 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
In the present study, we report giant extra-ordinary transmission of near infra-red (NIR) light, more than 90%, through a seemingly opaque plasmonic metasurface, which consists of two metal nano-slits arrays (MNSAs) with alternate opening arrangements. By using perfect coupling of the plasmonic modes formed between the sharp edges of the upper and lower MNSAs of silver, a giant, wavelength selective transmission could be obtained. The study is accompanied by optimization of electromagnetic (EM) field coupling for different interlayer spacings and lateral overlap between the two MNSAs to understand their significance in light transmission through the metasurface. The interlayer spacing between the MNSAs works as the transmitting channel for light. The optimization of performance with different fill factors and plasmonic metals was performed as well. Because of the excitation of extended surface plasmons (ESPs) generated at both the MNSAs, the metasurface can be used for refractive index (RI) sensing as one of its applications by using a transparent and flexible polymer, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), as substrate. The maximum sensitivity which could be achieved for the optimal configuration of the metasurface was 1435.71 nm/RIU, with a figure of merit (FOM) of 80 RIU− 1 for 90.45% optical transmission of light for the refractive index variation of analyte medium from 1.33 to 1.38 RIU. The present study strengthens the concept of light funneling through subwavelength structures due to plasmons, which are responsible for light transmission through this seemingly opaque metasurface and finds use in highly sensitive, flexible, and cost effective EOT based sensors.
Catalytic Core-Shell Nanoparticles With Self-Supplied Calcium And H2O2 To Enable Combinational Tumor Inhibition
Authors: Fang Chao , Kong Hanjing , Chu Qiang , Hu Zefeng , Zhou Yi , Han Gaorong , Li Xiang 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Nanoparticles, presenting catalytic activity to induce intracellular oxidative species, have been extensively explored for tumor treatment, but suffer daunting challenges in the limited intracellular H2O2 and thus suppressed therapeutic efficacy. Here in this study, a type of composite nanoparticles, consisting CaO2 core and Co-ferrocene shell, is designed and synthesized for combinational tumor treatment. The findings indicate that CaO2 core can be hydrolyzed to produce large amounts of H2O2 and calcium ions at the acidic tumor sites. Meanwhile, Co-ferrocene shell acts as an excellent Fenton catalyst, inducing considerable ROS generation following its reaction with H2O2. Excessive cellular oxidative stress triggers agitated calcium accumulation in addition to the calcium ions released from the particles. The combined effect of intracellular ROS and calcium overload causes significant tumor inhibition both in vitro and in vivo.
Identification of Fungi Resistant to 137Cs Gamma Radiation From an Artwork by Candido Portinari
Authors: Cardoso Renata , Correa Fernanda , Chaves Ana , Lutterbach Marcia , Ferreira Ana , Souza Marcia , Costa Antonio 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Gamma radiation is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of art collections being used with high efficiency in reducing microbial loads being obtained by the emission of a radioactive isotope, such as Cesium 137. Portinari's work, from the collection of the National Museum (Brazil), was analyzed and the fungi contained therein were collected, isolated, and further treated with gamma radiation for decontamination. Radiation doses used were 16, 19 and 22 kGy. Results indicated 11 genera and 17 species isolated. Penicillium and Cladosporium were isolated in air, artwork and its support - emphasizing the predominance they assume in the contamination of works of art under favorable conditions, such as museums. The genera Penicillium, Cladosporium, Nigrospora and Curvularia showed high resistances (16 kGy). The most resistant was Cladosporium, which showed no growth under 22 kGy. As there are some differences in ionizing radiation resistance among fungi from the same order or species, the results here outlined indicates that the rates of DNA damage and repair were critical, depending on chronic or acute dose irradiated. The biochemical mechanism acting on fungal cells under irradiation was basically the inactivation of specific enzymes and, probably, DNA damage, particularly stimulating double-strand breaks.
A Gland of Many Uses: A Diversity of Compounds In The Labial Glands of The Bumble Bee Bombus Impatiens Suggests Multiple Signaling Functions
Authors: Orlova Margarita , Villar Gabriel , Hefetz Abraham , Millar Jocelyn G. , Amsalem Etya 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Communication in social insect colonies depends on signals accurately reflecting the identity and physiological state of the individuals. Such information is coded by the products of multiple exocrine glands, and the resulting blends reflect the species, sex, caste, age, task, reproductive status, and health of an individual, and may also contain caste-specific pheromones regulating the behavior and physiology of other individuals. Here we examined the composition of labial gland secretions in females of the bumble bee Bombus impatiens, of different castes, social condition, age, mating status, and ovarian activation. We show that active queens, gynes, and workers each produce caste-specific compounds that may serve different communicative functions. The composition and amounts of wax esters, mostly octyl esters produced by active queens, differed significantly between castes, mating, and social conditions, suggesting a social signaling role. Farnesyl esters were predominant in gynes and peaked at optimal mating age (6-10 days), suggesting their possible roles as sex pheromone components. Reproductive status of females and age across castes was reflected by the ratio between short- and long-chain hydrocarbons, suggesting that these compounds may serve as fertility signals. Our findings overall suggest that the labial gland composition in B. impatiens reflects different facets of female bee physiology. While further bioassays are required to determine the function of these compounds, they are likely to have an important role in the communication between individuals and to the cohesion of the social structure.