bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Spectacular Devonian Trilobite Specimen, Dalmanites pratteni, From Illinois Helps Shed Light on How Trilobite Eyes Worked
Authors: Mayer Paul 
Published: August 2024

In 1912, the Field Museum purchased Henry Pratten's collection of fossils. One of the specimens was a dalmanitid trilobite with large eyes (Fig. 1) that Pratten collected from the Devil’s Backbone. In 1933, this specimen was described as a new species of trilobite, Dalmanites pratteni (P 16704) (Roy 1933).
Delo (1935) described a new genus of trilobite, Dalmanitoides and assigned it to a new family, Synphorinae. He noted Dalmanites pratteni has similar ornamentation to this genus. Delo (1940) later places D. pratteni in the genus Odontochile.
Other authors refer to it as Dalmanites pratteni (Clarkson and Levi-Setti 1975;Levi-Setti 1975; Frankie et al. 2008). Holloway and De Carvalho (2009) refer to it as ‘Dalmanites’ pratteni and state that this species “probably belongs to the Synphoriinae”.
The stratigraphic position of this specimen was not recorded. Seid et al. (2009) published a detailed geologic map of the Devil’s Backbone. Most of the ridge is Middle Devonian Grand Tower and St. Laurent formations. However, the southern end of the ridge is faulted, and the Lower Devonian Backbone Limestone and Crystal Creek Chert (Emsian) is exposed. Frankie et al. (2008) and Devera et al. (2020) report Dalmanites pratteni occurring from the Crystal Creek Chert, indicating that the original specimen may have been collected here.
One of the most remarkable features of this fossil is the record number of lenses for a Phacopida. Roy (1933) reports 42 rows of eyes, however:
“The exact number of lenses cannot be determined, as not all of them are preserved, nor are the areas which they occupied distinctly outlined. It is, however, certain that there are not less than 770 lenses on each eye.” (Roy 1933).
I used images of the eyes and illustration software to estimate the number of lenses by filling in the geometric pattern they exhibit. I counted 730 lenses on the right eye and 712 lenses on left eye, which is missing a sizable piece (Fig. 2).
The structure of some individual lenses in this specimen can be seen due to differential weathering. Clarkson and Levi-Setti (1975) reported the large round lenses were composed of a doublet structure that followed the principles established by Descartes (1637) and Huygens (1690) to eliminate spherical distortion. This doublet structure allowed the lens to gather more light and focus it on a single point, and strongly indicates that these trilobites had better vision then previously established (Clarkson and Levi-Setti 1975).
Facilitation of constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships: A concept analysis
Authors: Mokoena-De Beer Andile G. 
Published: August 2024

Background: The researcher’s previous study indicated that couples in a relationship where one partner is diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) experience intra- and inter-personal difficulties affecting interaction with self and others. Therefore, constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships are essential to facilitate the mental health of couples in a relationship where one partner is diagnosed with BPD. However, the concept has not been defined and applied in caring for such couples.Aim: The study aims to clarify its meaning by identifying and defining the central concept of ‘facilitation of constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships’.Setting: The researcher used results from a previous study that explored the experiences of couples in a relationship where one partner is diagnosed with a mental illness to identify and define the central concept.Methods: The concept was examined using analysis, synthesis, and inductive reasoning strategies, which were applied in two phases.Results: The central concept of ‘facilitation of constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships’ for couples where one partner is diagnosed with BPD was identified and defined using a dictionary and subject definitions.Conclusion: Identifying and defining the central concept is essential to developing a model to facilitate constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships.Contribution: The concept ‘facilitation of constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships’ is unique in its form and valuable for developing a model that can be used as a guiding tool for psychiatric nurses to facilitate the mental health of such couples. Furthermore, the model could benefit other relationships experiencing intra- and inter-personal challenges.
Continuing professional development barriers and recommendations: Perspectives of audiologists
Authors: Barath Suvishka , Ross Andrew J. 
Published: August 2024

Background: Continuing professional development (CPD), a compulsory requirement of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), is undertaken by healthcare professionals (HCPs), including audiologists, to remain up-to-date with the latest developments, technology and best practices within their discipline. However, the low compliance rates of audiologists engaging in CPD need to be investigated to establish the barriers that audiologists encounter as well as possible interventions to improve their participation.Objectives: This study aimed to explore the barriers that audiologists encounter when participating in CPD activities and to highlight their suggestions for improving its uptake.Method: The descriptive qualitative research design entailed the use of semi-structured online interviews with 11 audiologists practising within the private sector in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, their responses being thematically analysed.Results: Three barriers were identified, namely: (1) personal, (2) financial and (3) structural barriers, with eight subthemes and nine recommendations provided by participants.Conclusion: It is anticipated that implementing the proposed strategies will address the barriers and allow active engagement of audiologists in their continued education.Contribution: Limited literature has been documented on the barriers that young, private sector audiologists encounter within the South African context while also providing suggestions to address these barriers.
Role of pericytes in regulating penile angiogenesis and nerve regeneration
Authors: Yin Guo Nan , Ryu Ji-Kan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Pericytes are multifunctional mural cells that surround the abluminal wall of endothelial cells and are associated with vascular development, vascular permeability, and angiogenesis. Additionally, pericytes demonstrate stem cell-like properties and contribute to neuroinflammatory processes. Pericytes have been extensively studied in the central nervous system. However, specific mechanisms underlying its involvement in various physiological and pathological conditions, especially in erectile dysfunction (ED), remain poorly understood. Advancements in in vitro and in vitro techniques, such as single-cell RNA sequencing, are expanding our understanding of pericytes. Recent studies have shown that pericyte dysfunction is considered an important factor in the pathogenesis of vascular and neurological ED. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the specific role of pericytes in ED, focusing on diabetic and neurogenic ED. This article provides a comprehensive review of research findings on PubMed from 2000 to 2023, concerning pericyte dysfunction in the process of ED, offering valuable insights, and suggesting directions for further research.
Scoring Criteria for Autoimmune Bullous Diseases: Utility, Merits, and Demerits
Authors: Tseng Henry , Stone Corey , Murrell Dédée F. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background:
Scoring systems play a crucial role in dermatology by providing objective measurements of disease severity, treatment efficacy, and outcome comparisons. In autoimmune blistering diseases (AIBDs), standardized scoring systems are essential for accurate evaluations; however, there is currently a lack of consensus on scoring methods.

Objective:
This literature review explores scoring systems in AIBDs by tracing their development, addressing challenges, and highlighting their role in defining endpoints, regulatory considerations, and clinical trials.

Materials and Methods:
Existing scoring systems for AIBDs, such as the Pemphigus Disease Area Index, Autoimmune Bullous Skin Disorder Intensity Score, Pemphigus Oral Lesions Intensity Score, Oral Disease Severity Score, and Pemphigus Vulgaris Activity Score, are examined for their validity, reliability, and responsiveness. The Bullous Pemphigoid Disease Area Index for bullous pemphigoid is also discussed. The concept of minimal clinically important differences is explored to determine clinically significant improvements in disease severity.

Conclusion:
This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the central role of scoring systems in dermatology and their implications for research and clinical practice in AIBDs.
Pigmentary Changes in Systemic Sclerosis are Associated with More Severe Cutaneous Sclerosis and Severity of Other Systems: A Cross-sectional Study from India
Authors: Mittal Setu , Khaitan Binod K. , Ramam M. , Khanna Neena , Mahajan Rahul , Bhalla Ashu Seith , Singh Manoj K. , Sreenivas V. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background:
Pigmentary changes of the skin in systemic sclerosis in the form of diffuse hyperpigmentation and salt-and-pepper pigmentation are well documented in the literature; however, its association with disease severity and extent of underlying internal organ involvement has not been well studied.

Aims:
To assess the correlation between morphology and extent of pigmentary changes with the degree of cutaneous sclerosis and frequency and degree of major organ involvement.

Methods:
This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital from December 2014 to November 2016. Consecutive patients of systemic sclerosis attending the outpatient department were screened, and patients satisfying the diagnosis as per the American Rheumatism Association criteria were recruited. Skin sclerosis was quantified using modified Rodnan skin score (MRSS), whereas pigmentary changes were calculated in terms of percentage of body surface area involved by rule-of-nine method. Investigations were carried out depending on organ involvement and as per respective specialty consultations with focus on pulmonary, cardiac, and gastrointestinal systems.

Results:
Of the 50 patients recruited, all had cutaneous involvement in the form of binding down of skin, followed by pigmentary changes. MRSS was significantly higher in patients with any pigmentary alteration (P = 0.03) compared to those without any pigmentary changes. There was a rising trend in between the MRSS severity and the proportion of patients with hyperpigmentation, and it was statistically significant (P = 0.04). Among systemic involvement, lung was involved in the form of interstitial lung disease in 94% patients (n = 47). However, skin pigmentation of any type was associated with lower high-resolution computed tomography scores (P = 0.02).

Conclusion:
This study shows that in systemic sclerosis patients presenting with pigmentary skin manifestations, cutaneous sclerosis is significantly higher.
Sarcoidosis and Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Granulomas following COVID-19 Vaccination (ChAdOx1): Successful Treatment with Tofacitinib
Authors: Ianhez Mayra , Miot Hélio A , Caetano Lívia VN , Paula Henrique Moura de , Freire Giselle GS , Torres Pedro PTS 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSarcoidosis and complications related to fillers have been reported following the COVID-19 vaccination. Additionally, cutaneous sarcoidosis has been observed around polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) injection sites. Foreign-body reactions to PMMA can occur simultaneously with systemic sarcoidosis, suggesting a shared pathogenic mechanism between both conditions. To report a case of sarcoidosis and PMMA granulomas following COVID-19 vaccination (ChAdOx11), successfully treated with tofacitinib. We present a 59-year-old woman who developed systemic sarcoidosis and a granulomatous reaction to PMMA filler following the COVID-19 vaccination (ChAdOx11). Notably, both PMMA and the vaccine were potential triggers for sarcoidosis. Treatment with tofacitinib produced marked improvement in both the cutaneous and pulmonary involvement of sarcoidosis and the granulomatous reaction to PMMA. This successful outcome suggests tofacitinib, a pan-JAK inhibitor, an alternative treatment for cutaneous and systemic sarcoidosis, as well as a potential therapy for granulomatous complications of dermal fillers, such as PMMA.
100 Most-Cited Articles in Vitiligo: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Attal Zoé Gabrielle , Gabay Sapir Itzhaki , Peles Galia , Horev Amir 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Vitiligo is a skin disease affecting melanocytes, characterised by the development of depigmented skin lesions.

Methods:
We used bibliometric analysis (BA) to identify high-quality research articles on vitiligo using criteria such as total citations, annual citations (AC) and journal impact factors. We extracted the 100 most-cited articles on vitiligo using the Web of Science database and analysed the results using Microsoft Excel 2019. Our search was limited to manuscript titles or abstracts containing the keyword ‘vitiligo’. The data extracted information such as title, author, year of publication, journal of publication, total citations and research area. We also calculated the AC rate to account for bias.

Results:
A total of 6,189 studies were retrieved. The 100 most-cited articles were published between 1976 and 2017. Of those, 75 were original articles, with the research foci being mainly pathogenesis (29%) and treatment (26%). The US was the most prolific publisher overall. We separately retrieved the highest cited data from 2018 to 2022 and tabled the top 10. Of those, 50% were original articles.

Discussion:
Our BA shows that developed countries published most of the vitiligo literature. Additionally, recent research has focused on targeted treatment approaches. We also highlight the increasing paediatric vitiligo research, specifically regarding therapies.
50 Years of Existence of X-rays in Orthopedic Operation Theater: A Review
Authors: Khan Abdul Qayyum , Abbas Mohd Baqar , Anwer Adnan , Khan Gular Navi , Akhtar Mohd Naseem , Chowdhry Madhav 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The radiation hazards evaluation is very important for justifying and ensuring satisfactory protection. The surgeon may receive exposure to the hands from the primary beam and to the rest of the body from the scattered beam. In academic institutions, one should always keep in mind that surgeons-in-training and technicians may be exposed to excessive radiation. One has to be also very careful with pediatric and pregnant patients. The radiosensitivity of pediatric patients is 10 times more compared with adults. Issues concerning X-ray exposure should be understood in the correct perspective and it should not create undue apprehension in the minds of surgeons, which will forbid the optimum use of this invaluable modality. It is very important that practitioners should be aware of the effective dose and should ensure that they use it wisely and effectively. The International Commission on Radiological Protection recommendation identified two types of effects against which protection is required. “Stochastic” effects are those for which the probability of an effect occurring, rather than its severity, is regarded as a function of dose without threshold, whereas “non-stochastic” (deterministic) effects are those for which the severity varies with the dose and for which a threshold may occur. Most importantly a piece of practical advice to orthopedic surgeons and operation theater personnel for optimum radiation protection should be given as reported by various authors. Recommended limits of exposure to ionizing radiation as advised by the National Council on Radiation Protection are updated from time to time as new information becomes available. Radiation protection infrastructure in India is constantly being strengthened based on experience and continued research and development activities at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai, and is keeping pace with the increasing use of radiation in radiotherapy, diagnosis, nuclear medicine, and industrial radiography. BARC has developed in-house thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) and an automatic reader system for occupational radiation monitoring. Personnel monitoring of over 70,000 occupational workers is carried out using TLD.
A Case Report on a Patient with a Primary Giant Cell Tumor of the Great Toe
Authors: Tomar Vishvendra , Adnan Mohd , Khan Azad 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Despite their benign nature, giant cell tumors (GCT) are locally aggressive bone tumors with a high recurrence rate. The most afflicted bones are the distal radius, distal femur, proximal tibia, and humerus and the commonly affected age group is 20–40 years. A bone GCT in the distal aspect of the proximal phalanx of the great toe, and fifth decade is exceedingly rare. In such circumstances, the standard therapy for GCT in such instances is extended curettage.
Intra-neural Ewing Sarcoma of the Radial Nerve Presenting as Wrist
Authors: Kala Prakash Chandra , Dave Aniket , Katrolia Deepti , Saxena Suvinay , Poonia Dharma Ram 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Intra-neural Ewing sarcoma is an extremely rare tumour and only a few isolated case reports exist in the literature. A 32-year-old South Asian male presented with wrist and finger drops of 3 months duration. Further evaluation with ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a tumour of the radial nerve in the arm. A wide excision of the tumour was performed, and the radial nerve was reconstructed with cabled nerve grafts. A diagnosis of extra-osseous Ewing sarcoma (EES) was made after histopathological evaluation using immunohistochemistry techniques. The patient subsequently received chemotherapy and after 5 months, he is disease-free and pain-free. However, there has been no motor recovery yet. Clinical findings and imaging can help and characterise the tumour, but histopathology and analysis for EWSR1 gene rearrangement are essential to confirm the diagnosis. Wide surgical excision and chemotherapy are the mainstay of managing neural EES.
Atypical Variants of Spinal Dysraphism: A Case Series
Authors: Badejo Oluwakemi Aderonke , Shokunbi Matthew Temitayo , Adeolu Augustine Abiodun , Oderinde Idris Olanrewaju , Akinmoladun Janet Adetinuke , Ogbole Godwin Inalegwu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The aim of this study is to present and discuss atypical instances of spina bifida (SB) within a Nigerian paediatric cohort, highlighting their distinctive clinicoradiological features. Additionally, a brief literature review is provided to contextualise these congenital anomalies. This series comprises eight rare cases of SB managed in a Nigerian neurosurgical facility. Additionally, a brief literature review is provided to contextualise these congenital anomalies. This case series comprises eight rare cases of SB managed in a Nigerian neurosurgical facility. Amongst these, four cases exhibited segmental spinal dysgenesis (SSD; one thoracolumbar, one lumbar, and two sacral). Each of these cases demonstrated diverse associated musculoskeletal, cutaneous, and perineal anomalies, accompanied by varying degrees of neurological dysfunction. Other cases included lipomyelomeningocele (LMMC), human tail (HT), membranous meningocele, and myeloschisis (MSS). Autonomic dysfunction was a common feature in all of the cases, whilst two of the patients presented with congenital kyphotic spinal deformity. Lower limb anomalies varied, including congenital talipes equinovarus deformity, pes planus, congenital calcaneovagus deformity, rocker bottom feet, clinodactyly, and tetrapolydactyly. Remarkably, none of the patients exhibited clinical features indicative of hydrocephalus. SSD, LMMC, HT, membranous meningocele, and MSS represent atypical forms of SB in the Nigerian paediatric population. Early neuroimaging of patients with suspected spinal dysraphism is crucial, as it may reveal a spectrum of diverse vertebral anomalies associated with this neurological condition within the African population.
Thyroid dysfunction in Egyptian patients with liver cirrhosis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Basiony Walaa T. , Elwan Nadia M. , Watany Mona M. , Elkadeem Mahmoud Z. , Hawash Nehad I. 
Published: August 2024

Background
Owing to the liver’s important role in thyroid hormone metabolism. Concerns were raised about the effect of the degree of liver cirrhosis on thyroid functions. This study aimed to assess the effect of liver cirrhosis on thyroid functions and the relation between thyroid dysfunctions and both the severity of liver disease and associated clinical presentations.

Aim
To assess the effect of liver cirrhosis on thyroid function and its relation to the severity of liver disease.

Patients and methods
This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 70 patients with liver cirrhosis (35 cirrhotic compensated patients and 35 decompensated patients) in addition to 20 healthy control subjects. Serum free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were measured. The severity of liver cirrhosis was assessed by Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores. Statistical analysis was done to compare groups and evaluate the association of thyroid function tests with CTP and MELD scores.

Results
FT3 and free thyroxine levels showed significant differences among studied groups (P=0.013 and <0.001, respectively) as both were decreased in decompensated patients compared with control group, while only FT3 was significantly decreased in compensated patients than the control group. While TSH levels showed no significant difference (P=0.062). FT3 and TSH levels showed a significant negative correlation to CTP and MELD scores.

Conclusion
Liver cirrhosis was associated with abnormalities in thyroid function tests that may be an additive cause to complaints in those patients. Being inversely related to the severity of the liver condition both TSH and FT3 needed to be followed-up as the liver condition deteriorated.
Diagnostic value of multimodal ultrasonographic techniques in evaluation of lymphadenopathy in the neck
Authors: Nooman Alaa A. , Elshafie Khalid I. , Reda Alaa M. , Dawoud Rasha M. 
Published: August 2024

Background
Recent ultrasound (US) imaging techniques, including high-resolution gray-scale, color, power, pulsed Doppler, and strain sono-elastography, are recent modes for US evaluation.

Aim
This prospective study aimed to review the value of the recent US modes in differentiating causes of lymph node enlargement in benign and malignant conditions.

Patients and methods
The study included 30 patients with enlarged cervical lymph nodes throughout the period from August 2022 to September 2023. Multimodal US techniques were used for all cases.

Results
In benign lesions, the lymph node size was taken. The shape index range was 0.31–0.66 with a mean=0.48 ± 0.9. Using Doppler US, they showed elevated hilar flow without peripheral vascularity. Using elastography, these nodes gave soft strain values range=0.60–1.00 with a mean=0.80 ± 0.2. In malignant lesions, the lymph node shape index range=0.55–0.81 with a mean=0.68 ± 0.4. Using Doppler, the nodes showed increased vascularity in most patients and avascular nodes in others. Using elastography, these nodes gave hard strain values with a range=1.70–11.75 and a mean=4.70 ± 5.0.

Conclusion
The use of multimodal US imaging (gray scale, color Doppler, pulsed Doppler, power Doppler, and elastography), in addition to the clinical history of the disease, differentiates benign from malignant causes of lymph nodes enlargement and are useful in selecting the lymph node for fine-needle aspiration cytology or biopsy.