bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Crystal structures of influenza nucleoprotein complexed with nucleic acid provide insights into the mechanism of RNA interaction
Authors: Tang Yun-Sang , Xu Shutong , Chen Yu-Wai , Wang Jia-Huai , Shaw Pang-Chui 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe nucleoprotein (NP) of influenza virus is the core component of the ribonucleoprotein (RNP) and performs multiple structural and functional roles. Structures of the influenza A, B and D NP molecules have been solved previously, but structural information on how NP interacts with RNA remains elusive. Here we present the crystal structure of an obligate monomer of H5N1 NP in complex with RNA nucleotides to 2.3 Å, and a C-terminal truncation of this mutant, also in complex with RNA nucleotides, to 3 Å. In both structures, three nucleotides were identified near two positive grooves of NP suggested to be important for RNA binding. Structural evidence supports that conformational changes of flexible loops and the C-terminal tail both play important roles in the binding of RNA. Based on the structure, we propose a mechanism by which NP captures RNA by flexible loops and transfers it onto the positive binding grooves. Binding of RNA by NP is a crucial step for template re-encapsidation during transcription and replication and cRNP formation. Our structures thus provide insights into the molecular virology of the influenza virus.
Potential interactions between uraemic toxins and drugs: an application in kidney transplant recipients treated with calcineurin inhibitors
Authors: André Camille , Choukroun Gabriel , Bennis Youssef , Kamel Said , Lemaire-Hurtel Anne Sophie , Masmoudi Kamel , Bodeau Sandra , Liabeuf Sophie 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe uraemic toxins that accumulate as renal function deteriorates can potentially affect drug pharmacokinetics. This study’s objective was to determine whether plasma concentrations of certain uraemic toxins are correlated with blood concentrations of two immunosuppressants.MethodsDRUGTOX was a cross-sectional study of 403 adult patients followed up after kidney transplantation and who had undergone therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus or cyclosporin) between August 2019 and March 2020. For each patient, immunosuppressant trough concentrations (C0) were measured in whole blood samples and then normalized against the total daily dose (C0:D ratio). The sample was assayed for five uraemic toxins [urea, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), indole acetic acid (IAA), p-cresylsulphate (PCS) and indoxylsulphate (IxS)] using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.ResultsThe median age was 56 years [interquartile range (IQR) 48–66] and the median estimated glomerular filtration rate was 41 mL/min/1.73 m2 (IQR 30–57). Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), urea, IxS and PCS were significantly associated with an increment in the tacrolimus C0:D ratio. A multivariate analysis revealed an independent association with IxS [odds ratio 1.36 (95% confidence interval 1.00–1.85)] after adjustment for sex, age and BMI, whereas adjustment for age weakened the association for PCS and urea. In a univariate logistic analysis, age, sex, BMI and the TMAO level (but not PCS, IxS, IAA or urea) were significantly associated with an increment in the cyclosporine C0:D ratio.ConclusionsEven though TDM and dose adaptation of immunosuppressants keep levels within the therapeutic window, increased exposure to tacrolimus (but not cyclosporine) is associated with an accumulation of PCS, IxS and urea.
Genetic data disagree with described subspecies ranges for Seaside Sparrows on the Atlantic coast
Authors: Roeder Mackenzie R , Hill Christopher E , Elphick Chris S , Conway Meaghan , Kocek Alison R , Tegeler Amy , Woltmann Stefan 
Published: March 2021

AbstractSeaside Sparrows (Ammospiza maritima) are tidal salt marsh endemic passerines found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America. Currently, there are 7 described subspecies, and “MacGillivray’s” Seaside Sparrow (A. m. macgillivraii) is the name given to the Atlantic coast subspecies breeding from North Carolina to northern Florida. In 2019 the US Fish and Wildlife Service received a petition to list this subspecies under the Endangered Species Act due to shrinking populations and loss of marsh habitat, which necessitated a Species Status Assessment. As part of the Species Status Assessment, we analyzed genetic (microsatellite and mitochondria) data from 464 Seaside Sparrows from Connecticut to Florida, USA, to infer population connectivity (gene flow) among Atlantic coast populations, and to assess the concordance of population genetic data with the putative ranges of the subspecies. Bayesian cluster analysis (program Structure) indicates three genetically distinct population segments: (1) Florida + Georgia, (2) Charleston, South Carolina, and (3) North Carolina to Connecticut. The population in Charleston, South Carolina was the most strongly differentiated based on microsatellite data, and harbored a unique mitochondrial haplotype not shared by other sampling locations, possibly reflecting long-standing isolation. Our results indicate population genetic discordance with currently described ranges of the subspecies of Seaside Sparrow and provide grounds for the consideration of separate management plans for the three populations.
Weak evidence of carry-over effects of overwinter climate and habitat productivity on spring passage of migratory songbirds at a northern stopover site in Ontario
Authors: Horn Lisa C , Remmel Tarmo K , Stutchbury Bridget J M 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Reduced rainfall in tropical regions decreases the availability of food resources for overwintering songbirds, with negative impacts on their body condition. Increasingly dry conditions at tropical wintering sites as a result of climate change may impact the ability of temperate-breeding songbirds to prepare for and execute their spring migration. We studied the carry-over effects of natural climatic fluctuations created by the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in tropical overwintering areas on 7 long-distance migratory songbirds at a Canadian stopover site. We used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index as a proxy for tropical habitat productivity and resource availability and a 34-year bird banding dataset from Long Point, Ontario, Canada to assess migration timing and stopover body condition. To increase our ability to detect potential carry-over effects, we employed a novel approach of using recent migratory connectivity studies to restrict the wintering ranges to areas most likely used by individuals passing through southern Ontario. Using linear models, we found that overwinter habitat productivity was significantly negatively influenced by dry ENSO events in the overwintering ranges in 3 of 7 species, with a fourth near-significant. Subregional differences in the effect of ENSO on precipitation patterns may explain why we did not detect a consistent effect of ENSO on overwinter habitat productivity for all species. Despite restricting the wintering range and using a robust dataset for species with diverse life histories, we detected only weak and often conflicting evidence of population-level carry-over effects from dry ENSO events and overwinter habitat productivity. Negative carry-over effects may be strongest and most evident during the earlier stages of migration because birds may be able to compensate to some extent for poor departure condition and late departure while en route.
Taxon-specific phytoplankton growth, nutrient utilization and light limitation in the oligotrophic Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Yingling Natalia , Kelly Thomas B , Shropshire Taylor A , Landry Michael R , Selph Karen E , Knapp Angela N , Kranz Sven A , Stukel Michael R 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe highly stratified, oligotrophic regions of the oceans are predominantly nitrogen limited in the surface ocean and light limited at the deep chlorophyll maximum (DCM). Hence, determining light and nitrogen co-limitation patterns for diverse phytoplankton taxa is crucial to understanding marine primary production throughout the euphotic zone. During two cruises in the deep-water Gulf of Mexico, we measured primary productivity (H13CO3−), nitrate uptake (15NO3−) and ammonium uptake (15NH4+) throughout the water column. Primary productivity declined with depth from the mixed layer to the DCM, averaging 27.1 mmol C m−2 d−1. The fraction of growth supported by NO3− was consistently low, with upper euphotic zone values ranging from 0.01 to 0.14 and lower euphotic zone values ranging from 0.03 to 0.44. Nitrate uptake showed strong diel patterns (maximum during the day), whereas ammonium uptake exhibited no diel variability. To parameterize taxon-specific phytoplankton nutrient and light utilization, we used a data assimilation approach (Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo) including primary productivity, nutrient uptake and taxon-specific growth rate measurements. Parameters derived from this analysis define distinct niches for five phytoplankton taxa (Prochlorococcus, Synechococcus, diatoms, dinoflagellates and prymnesiophytes) and may be useful for constraining biogeochemical models of oligotrophic open-ocean systems.
Law Enforcement and Individuals with Disabilities: Steps towards Service Improvement
Authors: Bezyak Jill L , Clemens Elysia , Lucas Sarah 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
People with disabilities are more likely to interact with law enforcement personnel than the general population. Despite the increased likelihood of interactions, most jurisdictions lack protocols and report barriers to effective interaction and communication with individuals with disabilities. The Community Readiness Model (CRM) is a useful tool for guiding research and training in this area. The purposes of this study were to gain insight into the community of law enforcement personnel’s readiness to accommodate individuals with disabilities and uncover barriers to effectively serving individuals with disabilities. Using the CRM to develop the web-based survey, researchers collected data from 267 law enforcement personnel. Results provide information on the implementation of disability-related trainings, effectiveness when serving individuals with disabilities, and specific strengths and barriers that impact service to individuals with disabilities. Specific implications for law enforcement professionals include the development of trainings and technical assistance addressing specific disabilities and related accommodations.
Circulating plasma microRNAs in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Wuttge Dirk M , Carlsen Anting L , Teku Gabriel , Wildt Marie , Rådegran Göran , Vihinen Mauno , Heegaard Niels H H , Hesselstrand Roger 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Objectives
SSc-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (SSc-APAH) is a late but devastating complication of SSc. Early identification of SSc-APAH may improve survival. We examined the role of circulating miRNAs in SSc-APAH.

Methods
Using quantitative RT-PCR the abundance of mature miRNAs in plasma was determined in 85 female patients with ACA-positive lcSSc. Twenty-two of the patients had SSc-APAH. Sixty-three SSc controls without PAH were matched for disease duration. Forty-six selected miRNA plasma levels were correlated with clinical data. Longitudinal samples were analysed from 14 SSc-APAH and 27 SSc patients.

Results
The disease duration was 12 years for the SSc-APAH patients and 12.7 years for the SSc controls. Plasma expression levels of 11 miRNAs were lower in patients with SSc-APAH. Four miRNAs displayed higher plasma levels in SSc-APAH patients compared with SSc controls. There was significant difference between groups for miR-20a-5p and miR-203a-3p when correcting for multiple comparisons (P = 0.002 for both). Receiver operating characteristics curve showed AUC = 0.69–0.83 for miR-21-5p and miR-20a-5p or their combination. miR-20a-5p and miR-203a-3p correlated inversely with NT-pro-Brain Natriuretic Protein levels (r = −0.42 and −0.47). Mixed effect model analysis could not identify any miRNAs as predictor of PAH development. However, miR-20a-5p plasma levels were lower in the longitudinal samples of SSc-APAH patients than in the SSc controls.

Conclusions
Our study links expression levels of the circulating plasma miRNAs, especially miR-20a-5p and miR-203a-3p, to the occurrence of SSc-APAH in female patients with ACA-positive lcSSc.
Predicting Long-Term Outcomes in First-Admission Psychosis: Does the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology Aid DSM in Prognostication?
Authors: Martin Elizabeth A , Jonas Katherine G , Lian Wenxuan , Foti Dan , Donaldson Kayla R , Bromet Evelyn J , Kotov Roman 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) is an empirical, dimensional model of psychological symptoms and functioning. Its goals are to augment the use and address the limitations of traditional diagnoses, such as arbitrary thresholds of severity, within-disorder heterogeneity, and low reliability. HiTOP has made inroads to addressing these problems, but its prognostic validity is uncertain. The present study sought to test the prediction of long-term outcomes in psychotic disorders was improved when the HiTOP dimensional approach was considered along with traditional (ie, DSM) diagnoses. We analyzed data from the Suffolk County Mental Health Project (N = 316), an epidemiologic study of a first-admission psychosis cohort followed for 20 years. We compared 5 diagnostic groups (schizophrenia/schizoaffective, bipolar disorder with psychosis, major depressive disorder with psychosis, substance-induced psychosis, and other psychoses) and 5 dimensions derived from the HiTOP thought disorder spectrum (reality distortion, disorganization, inexpressivity, avolition, and functional impairment). Both nosologies predicted a significant amount of variance in most outcomes. However, except for cognitive functioning, HiTOP showed consistently greater predictive power across outcomes—it explained 1.7-fold more variance than diagnoses in psychiatric and physical health outcomes, 2.1-fold more variance in community functioning, and 3.4-fold more variance in neural responses. Even when controlling for diagnosis, HiTOP dimensions incrementally predicted almost all outcomes. These findings support a shift away from the exclusive use of categorical diagnoses and toward the incorporation of HiTOP dimensions for better prognostication and linkage with neurobiology.
Nematode Genome Announcement: Draft Genome of Meloidogyne chitwoodi, an Economically Important Pest of Potato in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Bali Sapinder , Hu Shengwei , Vining Kelly , Brown Chuck , Mojtahedi Hassan , Zhang Lei , Gleason Cynthia , Sathuvalli Vidyasagar 
Published: March 2021

Meloidogyne chitwoodi is one of the most devastating pests of potato in the U.S. Pacific Northwest (PNW). Nematode-infected tubers develop external as well as internal defects, making the potato tubers unmarketable, and resulting in economic losses. Draft genome assemblies of three M. chitwoodi genotypes—race 1, race 2 and race 1 pathotype Roza—were generated using Illumina and PacBio Sequel RS II sequencing. The final assemblies consist of 30, 39, and 38 polished contigs for race 1, race 2 and race 1 pathotype Roza, respectively, with average N50 of 2.37 Mb and average assembled genome size of approximately 47.41 Mb. On average, 10,508 genes were annotated for each genome. Benchmarking universal single-copy ortholog (BUSCO) analysis indicated that 69.80% of the BUSCOs were complete whereas 68.80, 0.93, and 12.67% were single copy, duplicated, and fragmented, respectively. These highly contiguous genomes will enrich resources to study potato–nematode interactions and enhance breeding efforts to develop nematode-resistant potato varieties for the PNW. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Conditioned pain modulation predicts persistent pain after knee replacement surgery
Authors: Dürsteler Christian , Salazar Yusmely , Rodriguez Uxia , Pelfort Xavier , Verdié Lluís Puig 
Published: March 2021

Introduction:
Persistent pain after total knee replacement is an underestimated outcome leading to significant health burden. Sensory testing has been explored to help surgeons in decision making and better patient selection. Patients with different chronic pain syndromes exhibit a poor descending pain inhibition that can be quantified through experimental paradigms (conditioned pain modulation). A poor preoperative descending pain inhibition response predicted persistence of pain after surgery in previous studies.

Methods:
This study investigated the correlation between a preoperative inefficient endogenous analgesia and a bad postoperative pain outcome (painful prosthesis). One hundred forty-six patients were studied preoperatively by quantitative sensory testing. Conditioned pain modulation was calculated as the relative decrease in pain intensity (thermal stimulus) during heterotopic painful stimulation.

Results:
Approximately 21.2% of patients had a bad pain outcome (painful prosthesis), 6 months after surgery. Preoperatively, 47.9% of patients exhibited an insufficient endogenous analgesia. The probability to develop persistent pain after surgery in that group was higher than that in patients with a sufficient endogenous analgesia (31.4% [20.9–43.6, 95% CI] vs 11.8% [5.5–21.3, 95% CI], respectively; P < 0.004). Correlation between conditioned pain modulation values and postoperative intensity of pain was also established. Besides, a preoperative lower quality of life (mental component) predicted a worse pain outcome, too.

Conclusions:
This cohort study shows that preoperative sensory testing predicts a bad pain outcome after total knee replacement. This tool could help clinicians in a better indication of patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis for replacement surgery.

Registration Details:

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01811888 (prospective).
Propranolol Therapy in Infantile Hemangioma: It Is Not Just About the Beta
Authors: Lee James C. , Modiri Omeed , England Ryan W. , Shawber Carrie J. , Wu June K. 
Published: March 2021

Background:
Propranolol, a nonselective β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat problematic infantile hemangiomas, but a subset of patients experience treatment complications. Parents wary of long-term use and side effects consult plastic surgeons on surgical options or as a second opinion. Understanding the mechanism(s) of action of propranolol will allow plastic surgeons to better inform parents.

Methods:
A systemic literature search was performed to query published translational and basic science studies on propranolol effects on infantile hemangiomas and cells derived from these lesions.

Results:
In experimental studies, propranolol was antiproliferative and cytotoxic against hemangioma endothelial and stem cells and affected infantile hemangioma perivascular cell contractility. Propranolol inhibited migration, network formation, vascular endothelial growth factor A production, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 activation and down-regulated PI3K/AKT and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling in hemangioma endothelial cells, but it increased ERK1/2 activity in hemangioma stem cells. At effective clinical doses, measured propranolol plasma concentration is 100 times higher than necessary for complete β-adrenergic receptor blockade, yet was 10 to 100 times less than required to induce hemangioma stem cell death.

Conclusions:
Propranolol targets multiple cell types in infantile hemangiomas by means of β-adrenergic receptor–dependent and –independent mechanisms. Plasma concentration played a significant role. At clinically relevant doses, incomplete infantile hemangioma suppression may explain the rebound phenomenon and worsening ulceration, and propranolol off target effects may lead to commonly reported adverse effects, such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Propranolol limitations and complications underscore the importance of surgical treatment options in cases of rebound and severe adverse effects. Surgical intervention remains an important treatment choice when parents are hesitant to use propranolol.
Management of Patients with Textured Surface Breast Implants
Authors: Savetsky Ira L. , Gabriel Allen , Rohrich Rod J. , Avashia Yash J. 
Published: March 2021

Summary:
The purpose of this special topic article is to present an evidence-based approach and provide recommendations for the management of both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients with textured surface breast implants. There are currently no scientific data to support complete removal of a benign capsule. When unnecessary capsulectomies are performed, the patient is at higher risk for developing postoperative complications. Ultimately, the decision to keep, exchange, or remove breast implants is the patient’s decision and the procedure should be performed only by a qualified surgeon.
Vaginal Canal Reconstruction in Penile Inversion Vaginoplasty with Flaps, Peritoneum, or Skin Grafts: Where Is the Evidence?
Authors: Salibian Ara A. , Schechter Loren S. , Kuzon William M. , Bouman Mark-Bram , van der Sluis Wouter B. , Zhao Lee C. , Bluebond-Langner Rachel 
Published: March 2021

Background:
To optimize neovaginal dimensions, several modifications of the traditional penile inversion vaginoplasty are described. Options for neovaginal lining include skin grafts, scrotal flaps, urethral flaps, and peritoneum. Implications of these techniques on outcomes remain limited.

Methods:
A systematic review of recent literature was performed to assess evidence on various vaginal lining options as adjunct techniques in penile inversion vaginoplasty. Study characteristics, neovaginal depth, donor-site morbidity, lubrication, and complications were analyzed in conjunction with expert opinion.

Results:
Eight case series and one cohort study representing 1622 patients used additional skin grafts when performing penile inversion vaginoplasty. Neovaginal stenosis ranged from 1.2 to 12 percent, and neovaginal necrosis ranged from 0 to 22.8 percent. Patient satisfaction with lubrication was low in select studies. Three studies used scrotal flaps to line the posterior vaginal canal. Average neovaginal depth was 12 cm in one study, and neovaginal stenosis ranged from 0 to 6.3 percent. In one study of 24 patients, urethral flaps were used to line the neovagina. Neovaginal depth was 11 cm and complication rates were comparable to other series. Two studies used robotically assisted peritoneal flaps with or without skin grafts in 49 patients. Average neovaginal depth was approximately 14 cm, and complication rates were low.

Conclusions:
Skin grafts, scrotal flaps, urethral flaps, and peritoneal flaps may be used to augment neovaginal canal dimensions with minimal donor-site morbidity. Further direct comparative data on complications, neovaginal depth, and lubrication are needed to assess indications in addition to advantages and disadvantages of the various lining options.