bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A practical guide to over‐the‐counter treatments for hyperpigmentation
Authors: Jafry Mustufa , Guan Linna L. , Mohammad Tasneem F. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractHyperpigmentation of the skin, defined as increased melanin in the epidermis, is a common condition associated with psychosocial impairment and decreased quality of life. Prescription options are often not covered by insurance and can be cost prohibitive. As such, many turn to over‐the‐counter (OTC) products for treatment. However, a plethora of options are available, which can be confusing. This review aims to evaluate the evidence for common ingredients found in OTC products for management of hyperpigmentation and provide guidance for optimal use to clinicians and consumers. To perform this review, a comprehensive literature search utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted to identify relevant studies on the clinico‐epidemiological aspects of hyperpigmentation, including postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma and maturational hyperpigmentation, as well as on relevant OTC treatments. The efficacy and safety of OTC products were assessed based on available evidence, clinical trials and expert recommendations. Our results showed hyperpigmentation is more prevalent among individuals with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick skin phototypes III–VI). Due to limited insurance coverage and the high cost of prescription options, over‐the‐counter (OTC) treatments are widely used for managing postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). However, the lack of strict regulation by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raises concerns about the safety and efficacy of these products. By critically evaluating the existing literature, this review offers practical, evidence‐based guidance for the selection and utilization of OTC products for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.
Survival and behavior of Mojave desert tortoises head‐started with and without outdoor rearing
Authors: Glass M. Susanna , Todd Brian D. , Buhlmann Kurt A. , Rushing Clark S. , Tuberville Tracey D. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractMojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) populations in some regions have declined by >50% since 2004, prompting the need for more research on ways to recover populations. One possible recovery tool is head‐starting (i.e., the act of protecting and raising juvenile tortoises to sizes that increase survival upon release); however, head‐starting can have high start‐up and maintenance costs that can limit its feasibility. Strategies that reduce cost and rearing duration may foster broader and more effective use. We released and radio‐tracked 60 juvenile tortoises in the Mojave National Preserve in California, USA, that had been reared under 2 treatments: those reared 1 year indoors after hatching, then 1 year outdoors (combo) and those reared just 1 year indoors (indoor‐only). We tested whether indoor‐only rearing alone could be a more efficient means of producing robust head‐started tortoises. We examined the behavior, movement, and survival of tortoises after release into the wild from 2020 to 2021 to determine whether these outcomes differed between husbandry treatments. Combo tortoises tended to perform settling behaviors (mean ± 1 SE days to building first burrow = 6.7 ± 0.8, entering dormancy = 23.3 ± 2.1, and emerging from dormancy = 189.6 ± 4.4) earlier than indoor‐only tortoises (7.4 ± 0.9, 31.5 ± 2.6, and 193.9 ± 5.9, respectively), but this difference was not significant, suggesting the rearing method did not greatly alter settling behavior. Indoor‐only tortoises dispersed at least twice as far from their release site (156.2 ± 26.3 m compared with 77.3 ± 20.6 m for combo tortoises), had larger mean use areas (3.7 ± 0.1 ha compared with 2.8 ± 0.3 ha for combo tortoises for 95% Brownian bridge movement model estimates), and greater variability in their movements than combo tortoises (daily average step length post‐emergence: 4.3 ± 0.2 m compared with 2.8 ± 0.1 m for combo tortoises). Despite differences in their movements, indoor‐only and combo tortoises had similar survival rates over the study, 51% versus 42%, respectively, during a period of extreme drought in 2021. The similarity in survival between groups gives head‐starting practitioners freedom in their rearing methods. The indoor‐only group had lower site fidelity, which should be considered when this is an undesirable trait for released tortoises.
Environmental Impact of a Direct Laryngoscopy: Opportunities for Pollution Mitigation
Authors: Filley Grace I. , Kayastha Darpan , Hayes Wesley , Mehra Saral , Sherman Jodi D. , Eckelman Matthew J. 
Published: February 2024

ObjectiveTo quantify the environmental impact of standard direct laryngoscopy surgery and model the environmental benefit of three feasible alternative scenarios that meet safe decontamination reprocessing requirements.Study DesignThis is a life cycle assessment (LCA) modeling study.SettingYale‐New Haven Hospital (YNHH), a 1541‐bed tertiary medical center in New Haven, Connecticut, USA.MethodsWe performed cradle‐to‐grave LCA of DLS at Yale New Haven Hospital in 2022, including global warming potential (GWP), water consumption, and fine particulate matter formation. Three alternative scenarios were modeled: disinfecting surgical tools using high‐level disinfection rather than steam sterilization, substituting non‐sterile for sterile gloves and gowns; and reducing surgical towel and drape sizes by 30%.ResultsChanges in disinfection practices would decrease procedure GWP by 11% in each environmental impact category. Substituting non‐sterile gowns and gloves reduced GWP by 15%, with nominal changes to water consumption. Linen size reduction resulted in 28% less procedure‐related water consumption. Together, a nearly 30% reduction across all environmental impact categories could be achieved.ConclusionsNot exceeding minimum Center for Disease Control (CDC) decontamination standards for reusable devices and optimizing non‐sterile consumable materials could dramatically reduce healthcare‐associated emissions without compromising safety, thereby minimizing the negative consequences of hospital operations to environmental and human health. Findings extend to other non‐sterile surgical procedures.Level of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 134:3206–3214, 2024
Vitamin D supplementation in preventing the recurrence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Kong Tae Hoon , Jung Su Young , Seo Young Joon , Shim Dae Bo 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the recurrence rate of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).MethodsA single‐center, prospective, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group randomized controlled trial was conducted between November 2018 and May 2020. After successful treatment with canalith repositioning maneuvers, patients diagnosed with BPPV were randomized to either the vitamin D (n = 20) or placebo (n = 18) group. Only patients with serum vitamin D levels <20 ng mL−1 were included. The vitamin D group received 7000 IU of vitamin D weekly for a year, while the placebo group received a matching placebo drug. The final endpoint was the BPPV recurrence rate and correlation with serum vitamin D levels after 6 and 12 months in both groups.ResultsAmong 38 patients, 37 were followed up for 6 months and 30 for 12 months. Significantly higher serum vitamin D levels were observed in the vitamin D group compared to the placebo group at both the 6‐month and 1‐year follow‐ups (p < .001 at each timepoint). The recurrence rate was lower in the vitamin D group than in the placebo group after 6 months (p = .008) and 1 year (p = .003).ConclusionVitamin D supplementation, in the absence of calcium, may be beneficial for patients prone to recurrent BPPV episodes, particularly when serum vitamin D levels are suboptimal (PRE20181024‐001, Clinical Research Information Service, South Korea).Level of Evidence1b.
FTO promotes the progression of retinoblastoma through YTHDF2‐dependent N6‐methyladenosine modification in E2F3
Authors: Xie Weiwei , Shao Yongqing , Bo Qingyun , Li Zhen , Yu Qihua , Wang Layi , Wu Guohai 
Published: February 2024

AbstractEarly treatment of retinoblastoma (RB) has significantly improved clinical outcomes. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is crucial for cancer progression. Thus, we investigated the role of FTO‐dependent demethylation in RB and its underlying mechanisms. The biological behavior of RB cells was analyzed using cell counting kit‐8, colony formation analysis, transwell assay, flow cytometry, and western blot analysis. m6A modification was evaluated using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation and dual‐luciferase reporter assays, and E2F3 stability was assessed using Actinomycin D. The roles of FTO and E2F3 were also elucidated in vivo. These results indicated that FTO was highly expressed in RB cells with low m6A levels. FTO knockdown inhibited RB cell growth, migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. Mechanistically, FTO interference promoted m6A methylation of E2F3, which was recognized by YTHDF2, thereby reducing mRNA stability. E2F3 overexpression partially rescued the effects of FTO knockdown on biological behavior. Moreover, FTO knockdown reduced tumor weight, tumor volume, ki67 expression, and tumor cell infiltration by mediating E2F3. Taken together, FTO silencing inhibited the malignant processes of RB by suppressing E2F3 in an m6A‐YTHD2‐dependent manner. These findings suggest that FTO is a novel therapeutic target for RB.
Systematical identification of key genes and regulatory genetic variants associated with prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Gu Linglong , Yue Xinying , Niu Siyuan , Ma Jialing , Liu Shasha , Pan Miaoxin , Song Lina , Su Qianqian , Tan Yuqian , Li Yueping , Chang Jiang 
Published: February 2024

AbstractEsophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) stands as a highly lethal malignancy characterized by pronounced recurrence and metastasis, resulting in a bleak 5‐year survival rate. Despite extensive investigations, encompassing genome‐wide association studies, the identification of robust prognostic markers has remained elusive. In this study, leveraging four independent data sets comprising 404 ESCC patients, we conducted a systematic analysis to unveil pivotal genes influencing overall survival. our meta‐analysis identified 278 genes significantly associated with ESCC prognosis. Further exploration of the prognostic landscape involved an examination of expression quantitative trait loci for these genes, leading to the identification of six tag single nucleotide polymorphisms predictive of overall survival in a cohort of 904 ESCC patients. Notably, functional annotation spotlighted rs11227223, residing in the enhancer region of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1), as a crucial variant likely exerting a substantive biological role. Through a series of biochemistry experiments, we conclusively demonstrated that the rs11227223‐T allele, indicative of a poorer prognosis, augmented NEAT1 expression. Our results underscore the substantive role of NEAT1 and its regulatory variant in prognostic predictions for ESCC. This comprehensive analysis not only advances our comprehension of ESCC prognosis but also unveils a potential avenue for targeted interventions, offering promise for enhanced clinical outcomes.
Seasonality, distribution, and harvest trends of Crevalle Jack in Texas
Authors: Getz Ethan , Walker Lily , Eckert Catherine , Downey Charles 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objective
Crevalle Jack Caranx hippos are important coastal predators and support an increasingly popular catch-and-release sport fishery. However, population declines have recently been perceived by stakeholders in parts of the species' range. Here, we aimed to provide distribution and harvest trends for Crevalle Jack in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico.

Methods
Long-term fishery-independent and fishery-dependent data were collected by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department from 1983 to 2021. Bag seine, bay trawl, and gill-net samples were collected in conjunction with angler creel surveys. Crevalle Jack that were observed in fishery-independent sampling were used to assess patterns in both juvenile and adult relative abundance, distribution, and seasonality. In addition, boosted regression tree models were used to highlight important predictors of Crevalle Jack presence. Crevalle Jack harvest observed during angler surveys was used to describe the fishery, including differences in inshore and offshore catch patterns. Relative abundance of both juveniles and adults was variable across years but displayed no trend throughout the time series.

Result
Crevalle Jack of all sizes were found within inshore waters, with subadults and large adults particularly reliant on estuarine systems. Recruitment peaked in early summer, with juveniles occupying all major estuaries along the coast. Shifts in recruitment were evident in bag seines, as the mean date of catch trended almost 2 weeks earlier over the study period. The Crevalle Jack fishery was spread across inshore and offshore waters, with significantly larger fish harvested offshore during summer. The majority of anglers who harvested Crevalle Jack stated that they were specifically targeting other species, thus supporting the notion that the targeted fishery is mainly catch and release.

Conclusion
As Crevalle Jack declines have been noted elsewhere in the species' range, these results could help to inform future management decisions in Texas.
Patient perception of group consultations for knee osteoarthritis and influence of area‐level deprivation: A service evaluation in a physiotherapy musculoskeletal setting
Authors: Blatgé Hugo , Shanmugam Sivaramkumar , Slattery Brian , Lewis Olivia , Nicol Zoe 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIntroductionGroup consultations are considered valuable for managing musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. This service evaluation aimed to assess the perception of knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients regarding group consultations in NHS Lanarkshire's MSK service. It also explored the impact of area‐level deprivation on patient engagement.MethodsSurveys were developed to gauge patient satisfaction, preferences, and experiences in virtual and face‐to‐face (FTF) group consultations. Patients were categorised into opt‐out, did not attend (DNA), or opt‐in groups. We used the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation for area‐level deprivation analysis. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data, while qualitative data were thematically analysed.ResultsA total of 84 patients participated, and area‐level deprivation was similar across groups. Common engagement barriers included disinterest and transportation issues in opt‐out and DNA groups, and IT problems in the DNA virtual group. Most patients expressed a preference for one‐on‐one consultations. FTF opt‐in patients reported high satisfaction and increased confidence in managing their condition post‐consultation. Virtual opt‐in patients had a more neutral satisfaction level and mixed confidence. They were also less comfortable interacting with others during the consultation. Thematic analysis revealed positive experiences, and areas for improvement such as individual privacy concerns and additional resources.ConclusionOverall, patients were generally satisfied with group consultations for knee OA. The evaluation identified strategies to enhance engagement. Area‐level deprivation did not significantly impact patient participation in group consultations.
Association between TV and/or video time and nocturia in adults: An analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Wang Junwei , Zhang Aiwei , Ye Miaoyong , Zhang Cunming 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAimsThis study aimed to examine the correlation between television (TV) and/or video viewing time and the occurrence of nocturia in adults.MethodsAn analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 2011–2016 was conducted, involving 13 294 adults aged 20 and older. The main outcome was specified as nocturia, which refers to the requirement of urinating two or more times during the night. Initially, baseline characteristics were contrasted between individuals with and without nocturia. The effects of TV and/or video viewing time on nocturia were further explored using multivariable logistic regression models. To acknowledge the variation in baseline data regarding the prevalence of nocturia, subgroup analyses were performed.ResultsAdjusted multivariate analysis revealed that individuals in the group with the longest TV and/or video viewing time had a significantly 48% higher risk of experiencing nocturia compared to those with the shortest TV and/or video viewing time. The results of subgroup analyses revealed no significant differences in the interaction tests between TV and/or video viewing time and nocturia.ConclusionsOur research showed that individuals who spent 5 or more hours a day watching TV and/or videos were significantly more likely to develop nocturia.
Target‐decoy false discovery rate estimation using Crema
Authors: Lin Andy , See Donavan , Fondrie William E. , Keich Uri , Noble William Stafford 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAssigning statistical confidence estimates to discoveries produced by a tandem mass spectrometry proteomics experiment is critical to enabling principled interpretation of the results and assessing the cost/benefit ratio of experimental follow‐up. The most common technique for computing such estimates is to use target‐decoy competition (TDC), in which observed spectra are searched against a database of real (target) peptides and a database of shuffled or reversed (decoy) peptides. TDC procedures for estimating the false discovery rate (FDR) at a given score threshold have been developed for application at the level of spectra, peptides, or proteins. Although these techniques are relatively straightforward to implement, it is common in the literature to skip over the implementation details or even to make mistakes in how the TDC procedures are applied in practice. Here we present Crema, an open‐source Python tool that implements several TDC methods of spectrum‐, peptide‐ and protein‐level FDR estimation. Crema is compatible with a variety of existing database search tools and provides a straightforward way to obtain robust FDR estimates.
Single layered soft skin actuated with twisted and mandrel coiled actuators for soft robotics
Authors: Matharu Pawandeep Singh , Singh Abhishek Pratap , Song Yuyang , Gandhi Umesh , Tadesse Yonas 
Published: February 2024

AbstractSoft silicone‐based artificial skin is essential in soft robotics because of high elongation, safe human interaction, low energy requirements and ease of manufacturing. Inspired by nature, several attempts have been made to fabricate morphing structures using synthetic soft skin. In this study, a novel elastomeric skin is demonstrated featuring embedded actuators and micro‐fluidic channels, that is capable of grasping objects. The actuators are twisted, and mandrel coiled nylon artificial muscles, with nichrome heaters that overcome key challenges in developing synthetic soft skin. The desired properties of a morphing skin are being low‐cost, lightweight, highly deformable, compact size, silent cyclic actuation, fast response, and long life. The actuators are fabricated from 160 μm diameter resistance wires wrapped on twisted nylon 6 fishing line precursor fibers of 800 μm diameter. The wrapped nichrome (0.42 mm pitch) along with the twisted precursor fibers are coiled on a 1.4 mm diameter mandrel rod to obtain high strain. This muscle termed twisted, and mandrel coiled polymer fishing line muscle with nichrome is embedded in soft skin samples and tested. Characterization results on the actuators (3.2 mm in diameter) showed remarkable tensile actuation of ~36% strain from loaded length at 0.99 MPa for an input power of 4.9 W, a blocked stress of 1.27 MPa, an actuation frequency of 0.04 Hz, and a lifecycle >22,000 cycles. These actuators, when embedded in the soft skin of 4 mm thick, showed ~50% bending strain within 10s and a cyclic behavior with active water cooling. A soft gripper fabricated with embedded soft skin is integrated to our child‐sized humanoid robot (HBS Robot) demonstrating its potential in grasping unconventional and deformable objects, hence advancing the progress in soft robotics.
Structural insights into peptidoglycan glycosidase EtgA binding to the inner rod protein EscI of the type III secretion system via a designed EscI‐EtgA fusion protein
Authors: Boorman J. , Zeng X. , Lin J. , van den Akker F. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBacteria express lytic enzymes such as glycosidases, which have potentially self‐destructive peptidoglycan (PG)‐degrading activity and, therefore, require careful regulation in bacteria. The PG glycosidase EtgA is regulated by localization to the assembling type III secretion system (T3SS), generating a hole in the PG layer for the T3SS to reach the outer membrane. The EtgA localization was found to be mediated via EtgA interacting with the T3SS inner rod protein EscI. To gain structural insights into the EtgA recognition of EscI, we determined the 2.01 Å resolution structure of an EscI (51–87)‐linker‐EtgA fusion protein designed based on AlphaFold2 predictions. The structure revealed EscI residues 72–87 forming an α‐helix interacting with the backside of EtgA, distant from the active site. EscI residues 56–71 also were found to interact with EtgA, with these residues stretching across the EtgA surface. The ability of the EscI to interact with EtgA was also probed using an EscI peptide. The EscI peptide comprising residues 66–87, slightly larger than the observed EscI α‐helix, was shown to bind to EtgA using microscale thermophoresis and thermal shift differential scanning fluorimetry. The EscI peptide also had a two‐fold activity‐enhancing effect on EtgA, whereas the EscI‐EtgA fusion protein enhanced activity over four‐fold compared to EtgA. Our studies suggest that EtgA regulation by EscI could be trifold involving protein localization, protein activation, and protein stabilization components. Analysis of the sequence conservation of the EscI EtgA interface residues suggested a possible conservation of such regulation for related proteins from different bacteria.