bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Coccygeal tumours unveiled: a retrospective cohort analysis from a tertiary referral centre
Authors: Gavvala Sai Niharika , Saad Ahmed , Shirodkar Kapil , Ariyaratne Sisith , Nischal Neha , Kurisunkal Vineet , Iyengar Karthikeyan P , Botchu Rajesh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Isolated tumours affecting the coccyx are infrequent, with only a handful of documented cases in the literature. Herein, we highlight the most extensive consecutive case series involving various isolated coccyx tumours with varied clinical presentations and imaging features.

Methods
A retrospective search of our tertiary Orthopaedic oncology institute's oncology and Radiology database [Radiology Information System, Picture Archiving and Communication System, and Computerised Radiology Information System] for the keyword “Coccyx” and “Tumour” was performed over 15 years (between December 2007 and August 2022). Data collected was correlated with local histopathology and laboratory records. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and complementary imaging findings were recorded for analysis.

Results
One hundred and three lesions originating in the coccyx with a mean age of 62 years (range 25-90 years) were identified. There was a male preponderance with 59 male and 44 female patients (1.3:1.0). The most typical tumour noted was chordoma. Other lesions included a dermoid cyst, a myxopapillary ependymoma, a notochordal remnant, an osteochondroma, an Ewing sarcoma, and a teratoma.

Conclusion
Our analysis suggests that most of the tumours involving coccyx are chordomas with a few rarely encountered benign and malignant tumours. Radiological imaging plays a vital role in characterising isolated tumours affecting the coccyx and guiding appropriate patient management.

Advances in knowledge
This is the largest reported series of coccygeal tumours. Chordoma is the commonest coccygeal tumour. Patients with unexplained coccydynia should undergo detailed investigations, preferably with cross-sectional imaging.
Understanding Factors Explaining Social Workers’ Empathy towards Sex Offenders
Authors: Ne’eman-Haviv Vered , Maman Shelly , Kagan Maya 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Empathy is crucial for client interventions within the field of social work. However, extending empathy to challenging populations, especially sex offenders, poses substantial hurdles. Therefore, this study aimed to delve into factors explaining social workers’ empathy towards people who have sexually offended against adults, by exploring the role of select background (gender and length of professional experience) and personal (self-importance of moral identity: internalisation and symbolisation) characteristics. Also explored in this context were aspects related to social workers’ attitude and prior experience working with sex offenders. The research participants were Israeli social workers and they completed a structured questionnaire distributed online. Findings revealed that male social workers exhibited higher empathy than their female counterparts. Greater length of professional experience correlated with lower empathy, contrasting with higher empathy amongst those with prior experience intervening with sex offenders. Moreover, internalisation of moral identity was positively linked to empathy, whilst negative attitudes towards sex offenders were inversely associated with empathy levels. However, the self-identification of moral values (symbolisation) did not significantly explain empathy. Understanding the complexities of empathy within social work practice with sex offenders is crucial for enhancing interventions and fostering support systems for practitioners handling these emotionally and morally challenging clients.
Semaglutide-associated kidney injury
Authors: Begum Farhana , Chang Kelly , Kapoor Krishna , Vij Rajiv , Phadke Gautam , Hiser Wesley M , Wanchoo Rimda , Sharma Purva , Sutaria Nirja , Jhaveri Kenar D 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are multipurpose agents effective in improving glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes while also achieving weight loss and risk reduction of major cardiovascular (CV) events and chronic kidney disease progression. With their increased utility in diabetes, obesity, CV health and renal protection, the use of GLP-1RAs has increased. However, with this increased use, there have also been increased reports of associated kidney adverse events, including case reports of acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) associated with GLP-1RA use. We report the data from the Food and Drug Administration adverse event reporting system (FAERS) in relation to GLP-1RA use and adverse kidney events, with acute kidney injury being the most common. In addition, we report two cases of semaglutide-associated biopsy-proven AIN and one with associated podocytopathy. To our knowledge, this is the first case of biopsy-proven AIN with podocytopathy associated with semaglutide use. Both patients experienced complete remission shortly after discontinuing semaglutide and undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. Further analysis of the FAERS database revealed 17 cases of proteinuria and 1 case of glomerulonephritis associated with semaglutide in the FAERS database, however no further information was available. While further research is needed to establish causality, this case series adds to the growing body of literature that semaglutide is associated with AIN and adds a new association, semaglutide with AIN and podocytopathies. While the overall clinical and mortality benefits of GLP-1RAs may outweigh the rarer risks, prescribers need to be aware of these associations, particularly as the use of GLP-1RAs continues to expand.
Regional thermal variation in a coral reef fish
Authors: Schmidt Elliott , Donelson Jennifer M 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
How species respond to climate change will depend on the collective response of populations. Intraspecific variation in traits, evolved through genetic adaptation and phenotypic plasticity, can cause thermal performance curves to vary over species’ distributions. Intraspecific variation within marine species has received relatively little attention due to the belief that marine systems lack dispersal barriers strong enough to promote locally adapted traits. Here we show that intraspecific variation is present between low- and high-latitude populations of a coral reef damselfish (Acanthochromis polyacanthus). Co-gradient variation was observed when examining aerobic physiology across a thermal gradient that reflected mean summer temperatures of high- and low-latitude regions, as well as projected future ocean temperatures (i.e. 27, 28.5, 30, 31.5°C). Whilst thermally sensitive, no significant differences were observed between high- and low-latitude regions when measuring immunocompetence, haematocrit and anaerobic enzyme activity. The presence of co-gradient variation suggests that dispersal limitations in marine systems can promote local adaptive responses; however, intraspecific variation may not be ubiquitous amongst traits. Identifying locally adapted traits amongst populations remains necessary to accurately project species responses to climate change and identify differences in adaptive potential.
Characterizing left ventricular systolic dysfunction in sickle cell disease: three contrasting case reports
Authors: Katis George , Srinivasan Sridhar , Eleftheriou Perla , Walker Malcolm , Demetriades Polyvios 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) is an uncommon but life-threatening complication of sickle cell disease (SCD), with poorly characterized aetiology. We present three SCD patients with LVSD due to different underlying mechanisms.

Case summary
The first case describes rapid deterioration in LV function secondary to severe cardiac iron overload in a 37-year-old female with poor chelation compliance after 10 years of top-up transfusions for SCD. The second case is a severe non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in a 42-year-old SCD patient with longstanding sickle nephropathy and hypertension. The final case demonstrates severe LVSD with large transmural infarcts (ischaemic DCM) in the absence of epicardial coronary disease in a 52-year-old SCD patient.

Discussion
This case series presents the first attempt to characterize the aetiology of LVSD in SCD. We identified three phenotypes: iron-overload cardiomyopathy, non-ischaemic DCM, and ischaemic DCM. These contrasting cases highlight the significance of understanding the underlying pathology in determining individualized treatment plans for these high-risk patients. We discuss the role of cardiac MRI (CMR) in characterizing LV dysfunction, and we believe that this case series will form the basis of prospective studies to further delineate the pathophysiology of LVSD in SCD.
Scleroderma myocarditis with severe secondary mitral regurgitation successfully treated with transcatheter edge-to-edge repair: a case report
Authors: Sato Daisuke , Ochiai Tomoki , Matsumoto Takashi , Mizuno Shingo , Saito Shigeru 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Systemic sclerosis presents with a variety of cardiac manifestations, while myocarditis is usually a rare finding. Furthermore, there are no reports on the use of mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER) for the treatment of severe ventricular functional mitral regurgitation (vFMR) secondary to scleroderma myocarditis.

Case summary
A-79-year-old male was admitted to our hospital because of fever and fatigue. His physical examination revealed thickening of the fingertips’ skin, Raynaud phenomenon, and mild pedal oedema. Positive anti-centromere antibodies indicated a diagnosis of a limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis. He presented with symptoms of heart failure, and moderate to severe lymphocytic infiltration was evident in his endomyocardial biopsy. He responded well to medical therapy and was discharged. However, one month after hospital discharge, he was readmitted to our institution because of worsening heart failure. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a decrease in left ventricular systolic function and progression of left ventricular remodelling, which caused severe vFMR. Endomyocardial biopsy revealed decreased lymphocytic infiltration and mild myocardial interstitial fibrosis, indicative of scleroderma myocarditis. As he was unable to be weaned off inotropes, we performed M-TEER for severe vFMR, which led to a significant reduction in MR volume and improvement of heart failure symptoms. A week after procedure, immunosuppressive therapy was initiated and the patient was discharged home in stable condition.

Discussion
Scleroderma myocarditis may manifest as heart failure with reduced ejection fraction with severe vFMR. Mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair for severe vFMR in the context of myocarditis can be one of the therapeutic options for haemodynamic stabilization.
Polymicrobial purulent pericarditis and peritoneal effusion in an immunocompromised patient with Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia: a case report
Authors: Cmor Nino , Dora Eva , Lainscak Mitja , Tibaut Miha 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Polymicrobial pericarditis is an extremely rare and lethal form of pericarditis. Prompt initiation of appropriate antimicrobial treatment and pericardial drainage are crucial.

Case summary
A 57-year-old immunocompromised male patient presented to the emergency department due to dyspnoea, chest pain, and fever lasting for 7 days. Following clinical, laboratory, and imaging work-up, he was found to have pericardial effusion with signs of tamponade. After pericardiocentesis through subxiphoid and apical approaches, 800 mL of gross purulent fluid was obtained. Blood and pericardial fluid cultures confirmed the diagnosis of polymicrobial purulent pericarditis (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacteroides vulgatus). Further work-up revealed minor peritoneal effusion, and paracentesis fluid culture revealed the presence of S. aureus and, additionally, Candida albicans. After treatment initiation with intravenous antibiotics, pericardial, drainage and supportive measures, the patient’s condition initially improved despite the development of constrictive pericarditis. However, he suddenly deteriorated after 37 days of hospitalization and passed away after 51 days of hospitalization.

Discussion
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of purulent pericarditis and purulent peritoneal effusion in the settings of S. aureus bacteraemia with an absent primary infection focus. Clinicians should be aware of treatment options for purulent pericarditis and consider intrapericardial fibrinolysis, especially in patients not suited for more invasive pericarditis treatment.
Intrinsic Skeletal Muscle Function and Contraction-Stimulated Glucose Uptake Do Not Vary by Time-of-Day in Mice
Authors: Fitzgerald Liam S , Bremner Shannon N , Ward Samuel R , Cho Yoshitake , Schenk Simon 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
A growing body of data suggests that skeletal muscle contractile function and glucose metabolism vary by time-of-day, with chronobiological effects on intrinsic skeletal muscle properties being proposed as the underlying mediator. However, no studies have directly investigated intrinsic contractile function or glucose metabolism in skeletal muscle over a 24 h circadian cycle. To address this, we assessed intrinsic contractile function and endurance, as well as contraction-stimulated glucose uptake, in isolated extensor digitorum longus and soleus from mice at 4 times-of-day (zeitgeber times 1, 7, 13, 19). Significantly, though both muscles demonstrated circadian-related changes in gene expression, there were no differences between the 4 time points in intrinsic contractile function, endurance, and contraction-stimulated glucose uptake, regardless of sex. Overall, these results suggest that time-of-day variation in exercise performance and the glycemia-reducing benefits of exercise are not due to chronobiological effects on intrinsic muscle function or contraction-stimulated glucose uptake.
Self-Compassion and Emotion Dysregulation Mediate the Effect of Stress Appraisals on Elder Abuse and Neglect Behaviors in Dementia Family Caregiving
Authors: Pickering Carolyn E Z , Weiss Nicole , Yildiz Mustafa , Sullivan Tami 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the mechanistic process by which family caregivers’ situational stress appraisals of behavioral symptoms of dementia (BSD) increase the likelihood of a caregiver engaging in abusive and neglectful behaviors toward their care recipient with dementia. We test the hypotheses that (1) the effect of daily BSD stress appraisals on elder abuse and neglect (EAN) is mediated by the caregivers’ emotion dysregulation (2) and the mediation path is moderated by self-compassion.

Methods
This study employed a multitime series design in which participants (N = 453) completed traditional longitudinal surveys at enrollment followed by 21 sequential days of diary surveys (n = 9,513). The hypothesized moderated mediation path was evaluated through a multilevel structural equation model.

Results
Hypotheses were supported. At the within-person level, daily BSD stress appraisal has a significant direct effect on daily EAN. At the between-person level, the path was no longer significant implying a full mediation of emotion dysregulation. The main effect of self-compassion and the interaction term (emotion dysregulation × self-compassion) were also statistically significant indicating the path between emotion dysregulation and EAN is moderated by self-compassion.

Discussion
This study significantly advances the field by empirically showing a mechanistic pathway for a theoretical explanation of EAN. These findings represent a breakthrough for the field and identify modifiable intervention targets for future behavioral interventions to prevent EAN. Emotion (dys)regulation and self-compassion are modifiable traits and skills that can be learned, with robust evidence bases of efficacious interventions that can be adapted for context to dementia family caregiving.
The Law, Dementia, and Sexuality—Is the Law Striking the Right Balance?
Authors: Sorinmade Oluwatoyin , Ruck Keene Alex , Peisah Carmelle 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives
English and Welsh laws require “contemporaneous” consent to sexual relations, often precluding “non-capacituos” people living with advanced dementia from these human interactions.

Research Design and Methods
The views of people living with dementia, carers, professionals, and over-55s were explored on implications of current laws on sexuality in dementia. Thirty-five participants from England were recruited through purposive selective sampling. Audio-taped semistructured interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed with each stakeholder group coded separately.

Results
Common themes across stakeholders were (i) law reform needed due to their hammer-like effect ignoring the individual; (ii) dissonant theme of needing the law for protection; (iii) negative impact of denied intimacy on individuals and partners; (iv) support for Advance Decisions on Intimacy with caveats; (v) less support for involvement of Court of Protection and Powers of Attorney; (vi) call for review of capacity concept with support for an assent model. People living with dementia described shame and stigma associated with policing of their sexuality and perception of being singled out for protection and intrusion into their lives. For informal carers (mostly wives), the theme of “what about me” emerged, demonstrating that for the long-term partnered, this is a couple’s issue.

Discussion and Implications
Practical implications of this study include need to address ageism and ableism; human rights education for society and professionals; starting point of presumed capacity for sexual relations with consensus on how and when this should be rebutted; and care homes’ certification requirements should incorporate assessment of the relationship health of their residents.
Systems thinking in, and for, public health: a call for a broader path
Authors: Gadsby Erica Wirrmann , Wilding Helen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Systems thinking has been recognized as valuable to public health policy, research and practice. Commentators and reviews have highlighted that there is still much to be done to embrace its potential. Here, we highlight that much of the discourse about systems thinking in, and for, public health supports the pursuit of a narrow path and is limited with respect to the lineages of Systems that are embraced. We invite readers to see the potential of systems thinking in pursuing a broader path which is motivated by a concern for alleviating health inequalities. This does not replace the narrow path but encompasses it. It prompts different considerations with respect to the nature of the transformation, partnership working and legitimacy. It also invites a different way of engaging with systems thinking and different ways of conceptualizing and managing change. The broad path both requires, and helps enhance, new ways of doing, relating, organizing, knowing and framing which are vital for the future of public health as a global concern.
Shape-shifting versions of class in Australia and the pursuit of equity in public health
Authors: Warin Megan , Loblay Victoria 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and current cost of living crisis have highlighted socioeconomically patterned health disparities, bringing renewed focus on equity in public health. Despite political rhetoric invoking cultural narratives of egalitarianism and opportunities for class mobility, social class remains a significant factor in health outcomes in the Australian context. For social scientists, class (despite robust critiques) is a key analytical concept that has been theoretically broadened to encompass social and cultural practices (habitus). In public health, however, concepts of social disadvantage have expanded toward frames such as health equity and socioeconomic status in ways that can obscure ‘class’ and habitus. Understandings and operationalization of concepts of class and equity not only impact collaborative and interdisciplinary relationships, but also the framing of public health problems and health promotion interventions and policies. In this article, we draw on our experiences as anthropologists conducting ethnography in and of Australian health promotion programs to map and re-evaluate the intersection of concepts of social class and equity. We trace how representations of class emerged in these programs, and the versions of class and equity that materialized across different public health contexts. We argue for a conceptual repositioning of class that recognizes its shape-shifting qualities and of its materializations in different politics, disciplines and everyday contexts. In doing so, we highlight ‘class’ as a salient dimension of the design, implementation and evaluation of health promotion programs.
Testing the PEST hypothesis using relevant Rett mutations in MeCP2 E1 and E2 isoforms
Authors: Kalani Ladan , Kim Bo-Hyun , de Chavez Alberto Ruiz , Roemer Anastasia , Mikhailov Anna , Merritt Jonathan K , Good Katrina V , Chow Robert L , Delaney Kerry R , Hendzel Michael J , Zhou Zhaolan , Neul Jeffrey L , Vincent John B , Ausió Juan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Mutations in methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2), such as the T158M, P152R, R294X, and R306C mutations, are responsible for most Rett syndrome (RTT) cases. These mutations often result in altered protein expression that appears to correlate with changes in the nuclear size; however, the molecular details of these observations are poorly understood. Using a C2C12 cellular system expressing human MeCP2-E1 isoform as well as mouse models expressing these mutations, we show that T158M and P152R result in a decrease in MeCP2 protein, whereas R306C has a milder variation, and R294X resulted in an overall 2.5 to 3 fold increase. We also explored the potential involvement of the MeCP2 PEST domains in the proteasome-mediated regulation of MeCP2. Finally, we used the R294X mutant to gain further insight into the controversial competition between MeCP2 and histone H1 in the chromatin context. Interestingly, in R294X, MeCP2 E1 and E2 isoforms were differently affected, where the E1 isoform contributes to much of the overall protein increase observed, while E2 decreases by half. The modes of MeCP2 regulation, thus, appear to be differently regulated in the two isoforms.
Inference on an interacting diffusion system with application to in vitro glioblastoma migration
Authors: Lindwall Gustav , Gerlee Philip 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme is a highly aggressive form of brain cancer, with a median survival time for diagnosed patients of 15 months. Treatment of this cancer is typically a combination of radiation, chemotherapy and surgical removal of the tumour. However, the highly invasive and diffuse nature of glioblastoma makes surgical intrusions difficult, and the diffusive properties of glioblastoma are poorly understood. In this paper, we introduce a stochastic interacting particle system as a model of in vitro glioblastoma migration, along with a maximum likelihood-algorithm designed for inference using microscopy imaging data. The inference method is evaluated on in silico simulation of cancer cell migration, and then applied to a real data set. We find that the inference method performs with a high degree of accuracy on the in silico data, and achieve promising results given the in vitro data set.