bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Fate of Methylmercury Through Formation of Bismethylmercury Sulfide as an Intermediate in Mice
Authors: Abiko Yumi , Katayama Yusuke , Zhao Wenyang , Horai Sawako , Sakurai Kenji , Kumagai Yoshito 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
A previous study of ours indicated that methylmercury (MeHg) is biotransformed to bismethylmercury sulfide [(MeHg)2S)] by interaction with reactive sulfur species (RSS) produced in the body. In the present study, we explored the transformation of MeHg to (MeHg)2S in the gut and the subsequent fate of (MeHg)2S in vitro and in vivo. An ex vivo experiment suggested the possibility of extracellular transformation of MeHg to (MeHg)2S in the distal colon, and accordingly, the sulfur adduct MeHg was detected in the intestinal content and feces of mice given MeHg, suggesting that (MeHg)2S is formed from reactions of MeHg with RSS in the gut. In a cell-free system, we found that (MeHg)2S spontaneously undergoes degradation in a time-dependent fashion, resulting in formation of mercury sulfide, as determined by X-ray diffraction, and dimethylmercury (DMeHg), as evaluated by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. We also identified DMeHg in expiration after intraperitoneal administration of (MeHg)2S to mice. Our present study therefore identifies a new fate of MeHg through (MeHg)2S as an intermediate, which leads to conversion of volatile DMeHg in the body.
In vitro protective effects of Lactobacillus plantarum Lac16 on Clostridium perfringens infection-associated intestinal injury in IPEC-J2 cells
Authors: Zhou Yuanhao , Wang Baikui , Wang Qi , Tang Li , Zou Peng , Zeng Zihan , Zhang Huihua , Gong Li , Li Weifen 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background: Clostridium perfringens causes intestinal injury through overgrowth and secretion of multiple toxins, leading to diarrhea and necrotic enteritis in animals, such as pigs. Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) Lac16 has been reported to protect broilers against C. perfringens infection. This study aimed at investigating the protective effects of Lactobacillus plantarum Lac16 on C. perfringens infection-associated intestinal injury in intestinal porcine epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2). Results: The results showed that L. plantarum Lac16 significantly inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of C. perfringens (P < 0.001). In the co-culture system, L. plantarum Lac16 significantly suppressed colony forming units (CFU) of C. perfringens (P < 0.05), which was accompanied by a decrease in pH levels (P < 0.01). Moreover, L. plantarum Lac16 significantly elevated the mRNA expression levels of host defense peptides (HDPs) in IPEC-J2 cells (P < 0.05), decreased C. perfringens-induced cellular cytotoxicity (P < 0.01) and adhesion to cells (P < 0.05). At the same time, L. plantarum Lac16 significantly attenuated C. perfringens-induced damage to intestinal barrier integrity and the decrease in claudin-1 (P < 0.01) as well as zona occludens 1 (ZO-1) expressions. Preincubation with L. plantarum Lac16 significantly suppressed mRNA expression levels of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) (Toll-like receptor (TLR) 1, TLR2, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) 1) in C. perfringens-challenged IPEC-J2 cells (P < 0.01). C. perfringens significantly elevated the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), JNK, and p65 nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) (P < 0.05) while L. plantarum Lac16 pre-incubation effectively inhibited phosphorylation of p65 (P < 0.001). Furthermore, L. plantarum Lac16 significantly suppressed C. perfringens induced gene expressions of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)) (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Collectively, probiotic L. plantarum Lac16 exerts protective effects against C. perfringens infection-associated intestinal injury in IPEC-J2 cells.
A Rhombencephalitis Revealing HIV Virorachia
Authors: MAGNEROU Annick Melanie , NIDA Martine , GAMS Daniel MASSI , ZANGA Hugues Martial , HALIMA Fidelie Scolastique NGOUNGOURE , MAPOURE Yacouba NJANKOUO 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
One of the possible causes of persistent inflammation of the brain parenchyma in the age of antiretrovirals is residual HIV replication, despite effective viral suppression in the bloodstream with Antiretroviral treatment (ART). The central nervous system (CNS) is infected early during primary HIV infection and is one of the reservoirs of this virus during chronic infection. Inadequate penetration of certain ART into the CNS could promote some degree of intrathecal HIV replication.We describe the case of an HIV-infected patient compliant to ART with an undetectable viral load in the blood but present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The patient presented with subacute rhombencephalitis due to HIV which was fatal to him.An HIV-infected and treated patient, well controlled on ART, with new neurological disorders, should be promptly investigated by brain MRI and CSF analysis for exhaustive detection of viruses including that of HIV itself.
High efficacy of microbial larvicides for malaria vectors control in the city of Yaounde Cameroon: a cluster randomised study
Authors: Antonio-Nkondjio Christophe , Doumbe-Belisse Patricia , Djamouko-Djonkam Landre , Ngadjeu Carmene Sandra , Talipouo Abdou , Kopya Edmond , Bamou Roland , Mayi Marie Paul Audrey , Sonhafouo-Chiana Nadege , Nkahe Diane Leslie , Tabue Raymond , Fosah Dorothy Achu , Bigoga Jude D , Awono-Ambene Parfait , Wondji Charles S. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The rapid expansion of insecticide resistance and outdoor malaria transmission are affecting the efficacy of current malaria control measures. In urban settings, where malaria transmission is focal and breeding habitats are few, fix and findable, the addition of anti-larval control measures could be efficient for malaria vector control. But field evidences for this approach remains scarce. Here we provide findings of a randomized-control larviciding trial conducted in the city of Yaoundé that support the efficacy of this approach. A two arms random control trial design including 26 clusters of 2 to 4 km2 each (13 clusters in the intervention area and 13 in the non-intervention area) was used to assess larviciding efficacy. The microbial larvicide VectoMax®G combining Bacillus thuringiensis var israelensis (Bti) and Bacillus sphaericus in a single granule was applied twice per month in all standing water collection points. The biting anopheline density collected using CDC light traps was used as the primary outcome, secondary outcomes included the entomological inoculation rate, breeding habitats with anopheline larvae, and larval density. Baseline entomological data collection was conducted for 17 months from March 2017 to July 2018 and the intervention lasted 26 months from September 2018 to November 2020. The intervention was associated with a reduction of over 85% of habitats with anopheline larvae. The application of the larvicide also resulted in a reduction of 68% of adult anopheline biting density and of 79% of the entomological inoculation rate (OR 0.21; 95% CI 0.14–0.30, P < 0.0001). A reduction of 68.27% was recorded for indoor biting anophelines and 57.74% for outdoor biting anophelines. No impact on the composition of anopheline species was recorded. A reduction of over 35% of adult Culex biting densities was recorded. The study also assessed the impact of the microbial larvicide on non-target organisms and registered no significant impact of the larvicide VectoMax on the aquatic microfauna diversity. The study indicated high efficacy of larviciding for reducing malaria transmission intensity in the city of Yaoundé. Larviciding could be part of an integrated control approach for controlling malaria vectors and other mosquito species in the urban environment.
Impact of Multimodal Cognitive Training on Cognitive Traits of Children: A Multicentric Interventional Study
Authors: R Manjunatha , Pankajakshan Praveen , Joseph Alphonsa , Kashyap Gyan , Manjunath Usha , Jayanna Krishnamurthy 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
In this article, we evaluate the hypothesis that a multimodal cognitive training (MCT) program, the Brighter Minds, can enhance certain inherent traits of a child and thus bring changes in the external behavior. For the study, 186 children (randomized to 93 each in intervention and control group) aged 10-15 years were enrolled from three different locations. Psychometric tests, parental/caregiver interviews and EEG (electroencephalography) tests were conducted before and after the program. Intervention group showed strong statistical significance for improvements in Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) (P<0.01) but no significance for Raven’s Standard Progrssive Matrices (SPM) or Susan Harter’s test. The parental/caregiver reported satistically significant improvements in focus (P<0.05), empathy (P<0.05), intuition (P<0.05), comprehension (P<0.05) and understanding of abstract concepts (P<0.05) for the intervention group. For the control, Power Spectral Density (PSD) of the baseline eyes-closed (EC) EEG recording, the spectrum below 20Hz exhibited the characteristic “1/f” spectral scaling of the power-law. This signature matches prior reported evidence in literature of those in wakeful state with EC. The intervention group EC PSD, however, exhibited a signature similar to those in a slow sleep state; reflective of the possible transfer effect of the training on other skills like relaxation. We used unsupervised learning methods with dice distance, on the psychometric and interview data, to show the effect of location and the exposure of a few control children to the program.
Left Atrial Appendage Orifice Area and Morphology is Closely Associated with Flow Velocity in Patients with Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Chen Lei , Xu Changjiang , Chen Wensu , Zhang Chaoqun 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background Thromboembolic events are the most serious complication of atrial fibrillation (AF), and the left atrial appendage (LAA) is the most important site of thrombosis in patients with atrial fibrillation. During the period of COVID-19, a non-invasive left atrial appendage detection method is particularly important in order to reduce the exposure of the virus. This study used CT three-dimensional reconstruction methods to explore the relationship between LAA morphology, LAA orifice area and its mechanical function in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation(NVAF).Methods A total of 81 consecutive patients with NVAF (36 cases of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and 45 cases of persistent atrial fibrillation) who were planned to undergo catheter radiofrequency ablation were enrolled. All patients were examined by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), TEE, and computed tomography angiography (CTA) before surgery. The LAA orifice area was obtained according to the images of CTA. According to the left atrial appendage morphology, it was divided into chicken wing type and non-chicken wing type. At the same time, TEE was performed to determine left atrial appendage flow velocity (LAAFV), and the relationship between the left atrial appendage orifice area and LAAFV was analyzed.Results The LAAFV in Non-chicken wing group was lower than that in Chicken wing group (36.2±15.0cm/s vs. 49.1±22.0 cm/s, P<0.05). In the subgroup analysis, the LAAFV in Non-chicken wing group was lower than that in Chicken wing group in the paroxysmal AF (44.0±14.3cm/s vs. 60.2±22.8cm/s, P<0.05); In the persistent AF, similar results were observed (29.7±12.4 cm/s vs. 40.8±17.7 cm/s, P<0.05). The LAAFV in persistent AF group was lower than that in paroxysmal AF group (34.6±15.8 cm/s vs. 49.9±20.0 cm/s, P<0.001). The LAAFV was negatively correlated with left atrial dimension (R=-0.451, P<0.001) and LAA orifice area (R=-0.438, P<0.001), while it was positively correlated with LVEF (R=0.271, P<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that LAA morphology (β=-0.319, P<0.001), LAA orifice area (β=-0.219, P=0.030), AF type ( β=-0.283, P=0.003) and left atrial diameter (LAD) (β=-0.241, P=0.018) were independent predictors of LAAFV.Conclusion The LAA orifice area is closely related to the mechanical function of the LAA in patients with NVAF. The larger LAA orifice area and LAD, Non-chicken wing LAA and persistent AF are independent predictors of decreased mechanical function of the left atrial appendage.
Genomic Analysis of Citrobacter Portucalensis Sb-2 Identifies a Phage Predation Driven Metalloid Resistance
Authors: Yu Yanshuang , Xie Zhenchen , Yang Jigang , Liang Jinxuan , Li YuanPing , Zhu Yong Guan , Yang Qiue , Alwathnani Hend , Feng Renwei , Rensing Christopher , Herzberg Martin 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Bacterial adaptation to extreme environments is often mediated by horizontal gene transfer (HGT). At the same time, phage mediated HGT for conferring bacterial arsenite and antimonite resistance has not been documented before. In this study, a highly arsenite and antimonite resistant bacterium, C. portucalensis strain Sb-2, was isolated and subsequent genome analysis showed that putative arsenite and antimonite resistance determinants were flanked or embedded by prophages. We predict these phage-mediated resistances play a significant role in maintaining genetic diversity within the genus of Citrobacter and are responsible for endowing the corresponding resistances to C. portucalensis strain Sb-2.
Adsorption and Diffusion of Magnesium on Nitrogen Doped Mo2C Monolayer
Authors: Ni Jiangfeng , Fan Kaimin , Tang Jing 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The Mg adsorption and diffusion behaviors on nitrogen doped (N-doped) Mo2C monolayer have been systematically investigated by the first principles based on density functional theory (DFT). The adsorption energies of Mg on pristine Mo2C and Mo2C1 − xNx (x = 0.0625, 0.125, 0.1875 and 0.25) have been studied. The adsorption energies of Mg on N-doped Mo2C are lower than that of pristine Mo2C. Especially, the adsorption energies of Mg are − 1.639 eV and − 1.625 eV on TC1 and H2 sites for Mo2C0.875N0.125, which have decreased by 16.49% and 18.43%. Furthermore, the Mg diffuses along H3-B-H4 and H-B-H with the barriers of 0.021 eV and 0.028 eV, which indicate that Mo2C0.875N0.125 exhibits fast diffusion properties. Additionally, the partial density of states (PDOS) reveals the interaction between Mg and Mo2C0.875N0.125. The PDOS results indicate that nitrogen doping causes the PDOS peaks transfer to a lower energy level, which is benefit for the bonding between Mg and MoC0.875N0.125. These results suggest that the adsorption and diffusion behaviors of Mg are enhanced by nitrogen doping.
Discovering Pesticides and their Transformation Products in Luxembourg Waters using Open Cheminformatics Approaches
Authors: Krier Jessy , Singh Randolph R. , Kondic Todor , Lai Adelene , Diderich Philippe , Zhang Jian , Thiessen Paul A. , Bolton Evan E. , Schymanski Emma L. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The diversity of hundreds of thousands of potential organic pollutants and the lack of (publicly available) information about many of them is a huge challenge for environmental sciences, engineering, and regulation. Suspect screening based on high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) has enormous potential to help characterize the presence of these chemicals in our environment, enabling the detection of known and newly emerging pollutants, as well as their potential transformation products (TPs). Here, suspect list creation (focusing on pesticides relevant for Luxembourg, incorporating data sources in 4 languages) was coupled to an automated retrieval of related TPs from PubChem based on high confidence suspect hits, to screen for pesticides and their TPs in Luxembourgish river samples. A computational workflow was established to combine LC-HRMS analysis and pre-screening of the suspects (including automated quality control steps), with spectral annotation to determine which pesticides and, in a second step, their related TPs may be present in the samples. The data analysis with Shinyscreen (https://git-r3lab.uni.lu/eci/shinyscreen/), an open source software developed in house, coupled with custom-made scripts, revealed the presence of 162 potential pesticide masses and 135 potential TP masses in the samples. Further identification of these mass matches was performed using the open source MetFrag (https://msbi.ipb-halle.de/MetFrag/). Eventual target analysis of 36 suspects resulted in 31 pesticides and TPs confirmed at Level-1 (highest confidence), and five pesticides and TPs not confirmed due to different retention times. Spatio-temporal analysis of the results showed that TPs and pesticides followed similar trends, with a maximum number of potential detections in July. The highest detections were in the rivers Alzette and Mess and the lowest in the Sûre and Eisch. This study (a) added pesticides, classification information and related TPs into the open domain, (b) developed automated open source retrieval methods - both enhancing FAIRness (Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability and Reusability) of the data and methods; and (c) will directly support “L’Administration de la Gestion de l’Eau” on further monitoring steps in Luxembourg.
Selected ‘Starter Kit’ energy system modelling data for Botswana (#CCG)
Authors: Allington Lucy , Cannone Carla , Pappis Ioannis , Walker Miriam Zachau , Ahsan Aniq , Hirmer Stephanie , Barron Karla Cervantes , Usher Will , Pye Steve , Brown Edward , Howells Mark , Taliotis Constantinos , Sundin Caroline , Sridha Vignesh , Ramos Eunice , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Gritsevskyi Andrii , Moura Gustavo , Rouget Arnaud , Wogan David , Barcelona Edito , Rogner Holger 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Energy system modelling can be used to assess the implications of different scenarios and support improved policymaking. However, access to data is often a barrier to starting energy system modelling in developing countries, thereby causing delays. Therefore, this article provides data that can be used to create a simple zero order energy system model for Botswana, which can act as a starting point for further model development and scenario analysis. The data are collected entirely from publicly available and accessible sources, including the websites and databases of international organizations, journal articles, and existing modelling studies. This means that the dataset can be easily updated based on the latest available information or more detailed and accurate local data. These data were also used to calibrate a simple energy system model using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) and three stylized scenarios (Fossil Future, Least Cost and Net Zero by 2050) for 2020–2050. The assumptions used and results of these scenarios are presented in the appendix as an illustrative example of what can be done with these data. This simple model can be adapted and further developed by in-country analysts and academics, providing a platform for future work.
Selected ‘Starter Kit’ energy system modelling data for Egypt (#CCG)
Authors: Allington Lucy , Cannone Carla , Pappis Ioannis , Barron Karla Cervantes , Usher Will , Pye Steve , Brown Edward , Howells Mark , Taliotis Constantinos , Sundin Caroline , Sridha Vignesh , Ramos Eunice , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Gritsevskyi Andrii , Moura Gustavo , Rouget Arnaud , Wogan David , Barcelona Edito , Rogner Holger , Hirmer Stephanie 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Energy system modelling can be used to assess the implications of different scenarios and support improved policymaking. However, access to data is often a barrier to starting energy system modelling in developing countries, thereby causing delays. Therefore, this article provides data that can be used to create a simple zero order energy system model for Egypt, which can act as a starting point for further model development and scenario analysis. The data are collected entirely from publicly available and accessible sources, including the websites and databases of international organizations, journal articles, and existing modelling studies. This means that the dataset can be easily updated based on the latest available information or more detailed and accurate local data. These data were also used to calibrate a simple energy system model using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) and two stylized scenarios (Fossil Future and Least Cost) for 2020–2050. The assumptions used and results of these scenarios are presented in the appendix as an illustrative example of what can be done with these data. This simple model can be adapted and further developed by in-country analysts and academics, providing a platform for future work.
Selected ‘Starter Kit’ energy system modelling data for Ghana (#CCG)
Authors: Allington Lucy , Cannone Carla , Pappis Ioannis , Barron Karla Cervantes , Usher Will , Cronin Jen , Pye Steve , Brown Edward , Howells Mark , Walker Miriam Zachau , Ahsan Aniq , Charbonnier Flora , Halloran Claire , Hirmer Stephanie , Taliotis Constantinos , Sundin Caroline , Sridha Vignesh , Ramos Eunice , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Gritsevskyi Andrii , Moura Gustavo , Rouget Arnaud , Wogan David , Barcelona Edito , Rogner Holger 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Energy system modelling can be used to assess the implications of different scenarios and support improved policymaking. However, access to data is often a barrier to starting energy system modelling in developing countries, thereby causing delays. Therefore, this article provides data that can be used to create a simple zero order energy system model for Ghana, which can act as a starting point for further model development and scenario analysis. The data are collected entirely from publicly available and accessible sources, including the websites and databases of international organizations, journal articles, and existing modelling studies. This means that the dataset can be easily updated based on the latest available information or more detailed and accurate local data. These data were also used to calibrate a simple energy system model using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) and three stylized scenarios (Fossil Future, Least Cost and Net Zero by 2050) for 2020–2050. The assumptions used and results of these scenarios are presented in the appendix as an illustrative example of what can be done with these data. This simple model can be adapted and further developed by in-country analysts and academics, providing a platform for future work.