bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The first case of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis caused by Gordonia otitidis
Authors: Miyazaki Tomoaki , Matsumoto Kei , Aoki Shugo , Takeshima Akiko 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Gordonia spp. is a rare infectious disease that has been reported in only 18 cases to date as a cause of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis. This is the first report of peritonitis associated with peritoneal dialysis caused by Gordonia otitidisand is a valuable case in which long-term intravenous vancomycin administration was successful.
Case presentation
A 48-year-old female. She started peritoneal dialysis at the age of 47 years due to end-stage renal failure caused by chronic glomerulonephritis. She was hospitalized for peritonitis three months after the start of dialysis. We administered cefazolin and ceftazidime intravenously and detected Gordonia otitidis in the drainage fluid after long-term culture for approximately 6 days. Therefore, we switched to vancomycin and treated the patient intravenously for a total of 6 weeks while checking blood levels and trough values in the drainage fluid. The patient had an increase in the number of draining cells for 3 weeks after the start of treatment, but the number of draining cells improved after that, and no relapse was observed 6 months after the end of treatment, suggesting that the treatment was successful.
Conclusions
When encountering peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis for the Gordonia genus, long-term intravenous administration of vancomycin should be considered as one of the treatments.
Extension patterns of giant lipomas arising from the brachial plexus Giant Lipomas from Brachial Plexus
Authors: Muramatsu Keiichi , Tani Yasuhiro , Ueda Masaya , Carolino Daniela Kristina D. , Gonzales Mary Rose Casas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Benign adipose tumors in close proximity to the major nerves are termed troublesome lipomas and are indicated for resection because of neurological impairment. Until now, however, limited cases of giant lipoma arising from the brachial plexus region have been reported. We discussed our experience with cases of giant lipomas arising from the brachial plexus region
Methods
We reviewed six cases treated in our hospital. There were 4 males and 2 females with the mean age of 55 years. On its greatest dimension, the size of the giant tumor ranged from 14 cm to 30 cm with an average of 21.6 cm. Based on MRI findings, the tumor extension patterns were divided, 1) lateral type, 2) posterior type and 3) inferior type. The symptoms were characteristic according to extension patterns of the tumor.
Results
Five patients who underwent tumor resection showed improvement in subjective symptoms early after surgery. An asymptomatic case with inferior type underwent only open biopsy. The histopathology in all cases confirmed ordinary lipomas. There was no local recurrence postoperatively.
Conclusion
Brachial plexus lipoma has potential to grow unexpectedly large due to repetitive microtrauma. The indication for tumor resection surgery should be considered in each type of tumor extension. The lateral type, which directly causes neurological symptoms, is the most indicative for tumor resection, while the posterior type is more suitable for surgery due to pain and thoracic outlet syndrome. In the case with inferior extension type, the patient was asymptomatic and the operative indication should be less.
Impaired consciousness due to hypermagnesemia associated with stercoral colitis: Report of a rare case
Authors: Yanagisawa Kana , Mizu Daisuke , Higashi Hidenori , Miyamoto Masataka , Nagatomo Mika 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Hypermagnesemia is a rare electrolyte abnormality that is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are nonspecific. In addition to magnesium administration, renal dysfunction is often a major risk factor associated with the condition; severe intestinal dysfunction is also a known risk factor. However, no cases of hypermagnesemia was observed in the absence of magnesium administration.
Case presentation: A 75-year-old woman with cognitive impairment presented to the emergency department with impaired consciousness. The patient was comatose and hypotensive and had a markedly distended abdomen. Her blood pressure was stabilized with infusion; however, the improvement in consciousness was insufficient and somnolence continued. Abdominal computed tomography revealed marked colonic distension due to fecal impaction in the rectum, with wall thickening and pericolonic fat stranding. Blood tests revealed elevated levels of C-reactive protein, lactate, and magnesium. There was no history of ingestion of magnesium-containing catheter ingestion; thus, the patient was diagnosed with hypermagnesemia associated with stercoral colitis. Magnesium levels and consciousness improved with the administration of calcium preparations, diuretics, antibiotics, and defecation control.
Conclusions: Severe bowel dysfunction can cause hypermagnesemia, even in the absence of magnesium administration.
Association Between Family-Perceived Quality of Death and Dying, Prognostic Awareness, and End-of-Life Discussions in Five Common Diseases: A Nationwide Mortality Follow- back Survey
Authors: Nakazawa Yoko , Miyashita Mitsunori , Morita Tatsuya , Mori Masanori , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Okumura Yasukuki , Kawagoe Shohei , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Takeuchi Emi , Yamazaki Risa , Ogawa Asao 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Discussing prognosis and end-of-life (EOL) care with patients and physicians is a sensitive and critical aspect of EOL care. However, the association between prognostic awareness and EOL discussions and the quality of death and dying (QOD) remains uncertain. This study aimed to describe prognostic awareness and participation in EOL discussions among patients with common causes of death and to clarify their association with QOD.
Methods: Observational study using nationwide mortality follow-up survey data. Bereaved families of patients were selected by stratified random sampling based on place of death (home, long-term care, hospital, and palliative care unit) and cause of death (cancer, heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, pneumonia, and renal failure). The primary outcome measure was family-reported QOD. Exposures of interest included family-reported prognostic awareness and EOL discussions, including care settings and code statuses. Logistic regression and generalized linear models were used for analysis.
Results: Of the 115,861 family members who were sent the questionnaires, we finally analyzed 55,306 responses. Accurate patient prognostic awareness ranged from 56.8% to 70.2% for patients with cancer and from 30.5% to 53.3% for patients with non-cancer diagnoses. Patient-physician discussions about care settings occurred in 36.4% to 54.8% of hospitals and 67.8%to 81.5% of homes.There were small differences in the QOD scores between patients with accurate and inaccurate prognostic awareness across most subgroups. However, participation in EOL discussions was associated with higher QOD scores than non-participation. The largest QOD score difference was observed in patients who died from pneumonia in hospitals, with discussions about care settings (64.0 versus without 42.6) showing a difference of 21.4 (95% confidence interval: 16.3, 26.5).
Conclusions: Participation in EOL discussionswas associated with higher family-reported QOD regardless of the disease or place of death. Although many patients preferred to die at home, similar results were observed for in-hospital deaths. This finding suggests that the process of discussing EOL care contributes to QOD rather than the final place of death.
Prioritizing Heat Adaptation Measures across
Indian Cities: A Benefit-Cost Analysis
Authors: Takacs Sacha , Souverijns Niels , Jones Nicholas , Tiwari Asmita , Kiktuani Natsuko 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Although deaths and economic losses from extreme heat are rising globally, heat
stress remains a ”hidden hazard” due to measurement and valuation challenges.
In India, cities are implementing Heat Action Plans, combining cooling measures
like urban greening and cool roofs with health interventions such as early warning
systems and shifting work hours. However, there is limited understanding of which
actions are most effective. Using high-resolution climate modeling, we developed
heat risk maps for Lucknow, Chennai, and Surat. We further modeled health
and economic losses under a ‘no intervention’ scenario and estimated adaptation
strategies’ costs and benefits. Our results show that, by 2050, heat-related deaths
could rise by one-third, and productivity losses could affect 2-4% of the economic
output. Among adaptations, early warning systems show the greatest return on
investment (50:1), while urban greening has a strong benefit-to-cost ratio (3:1),
highlighting the need to prioritize these strategies in Indian cities and beyond.
Xenomonitoring as an epidemiological tool adjunct to post-stop surveillance of albendazole ivermectin mass drug distribution in the Bougouni -Yanfolila evaluation unit in the Sikasso, Mali in 2023
Authors: Soumaoro Lamine , Dolo Housseini , Coulibaly Yaya Ibrahim , Coulibaly Siaka Yamoussa , Doumbia Salif Seriba , Sangaré Moussa , Diallo Abdallah Amadou , Diabaté Abdoul Fatah , Coulibaly Michel Emmanuel , Dolo Ibrahima , Dembélé Massitan , Yaro Alpha Seydou , Nutman Thomas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Mali and Guinea share a border and are endemic to lymphatic filariasis (LF), however each country is at a distinct level in its LF elimination efforts. Mali is in the LF transmission assessment survey (TAS) phase, whereas Guinea is still implementing the mass drug administration. In the Bougouni-Yanfolila Evaluation Unit (EU), this study assessed XenoFil (combinaison of xenomonitoring plus health facilities-based Ag detection) as an LF transmission surveillance tool to track the emergence of LF in cross-border areas following TAS3.
Method: In the Bougouni-Yanfolila EU, we conducted a cross-sectional study to gather mosquitoes in the villages and blood samples from participants of six years of age and older. In June, August 2022, and January 2023, we conducted three entomological studies in two ecologically distinct villages. The Ifakara type C tent trap, the gravid trap, and intra-household pyrethrum spraying were used to gather mosquitoes. For qPCR, we sorted the same mosquitoes species into batches of twenty. PoolScreen® 2 was used to determine the prevalence of infection. Trained local health workers performed serological surveys using filariasis test strips.
Results:In the two study villages, 989 Anopheles gambiae complex and 3743 Culex spp. were collected out of 4732 mosquitoes. Culex spp. accounted for 79.92% (211/264) of the 264 pools, while the Anopheles gambiaecomplex made up 20.08 (53/264). In June 2022, only one pool (0.53%) of Culex spp. tested positive [95% CI: 0.01-2.89]. Positive Anopheles pools were absent. The blood of ten of the 2056 individuals had positive results [0.49% (10/2056)]. Among the positives, one belonged to 6-7 years, two to that of 8-17 years, and seven to that of 18 years and older. Of the positive volunteers, 0.6% (6/996) were from Yanfolila's border health region.
Conclusion:The new XenoFil approach proved to be an easy, effective, and relatively cheaper method for integrated LF surveillance in rural areas, with an average cost of 5,656,244 CFA (US$9,070) for XenoFil (entomology-serology) and 6,366,450 CFA (US$10,209) for TAS in one survey in one EU. From the perspective of integrated LF monitoring, XenoFil is needed for scaling up to other EU.
Portal hypertension caused by portal vein thrombosis in children: report of the experience of a single center with emphasis on treatments and results
Authors: Tannuri Ana Cristina Aoun , Anacleto Amanda , Gibelli Nelson Elias Mendes , Pedreira Giovanna , Corullon Maria Luiza Villela , Brenner Pedro Zanetta , Gonçalves Manoel Ernesto Peçanha , Cardoso Silvia Regina , Cereda Diamari Caramelo Ricci , Tannuri Uenis 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Portal vein thrombosis is the most common cause of portal hypertension in children. This study aims to present the experience of a large university center by analyzing patients with portal hypertension caused by portal vein thrombosis, in search of prognostic factors, types of treatments, and results.
Methods: Retrospective analysis of 110 pediatric patients treated from 2000 to 2019 that were divided into two groups: endoscopic procedures (67 patients) and surgical assistance protocols (43 patients).
Results: Among the patients from the surgical protocol, 22 underwent the meso-Rex shunt, and 21 underwent other surgical techniques: distal spleno renal shunt (11 patients), azigoportal dissociation with partial splenectomy (6 patients), mesocaval shunt (4 patients). Five meso-Rex patients developed graft thrombosis (5/22; 22.72%). There were no differences between the groups regarding endoscopic findings (first and last), no correlation with the need for surgery, and no definition of initial endoscopic characteristics that could predict worsening disease. The only observed difference was the increase in platelets in the surgical group (median 25.02 thousand/mL, interquartile interval 118.00) that was greater than that observed in the endoscopic group (-42.50 thousand/mL, interquartile interval 56, p<0.001, Mann-Whitney test). Only umbilical catheterization could predict exclusive endoscopic treatment.
Conclusion: As the evolution of children treated endoscopically was not different from that of those treated surgically, we conclude that a more conservative approach should be adopted whenever possible.
Turning Failures into Opportunities? Unexpected Outcomes of a Failure-Reframing Intervention
Authors: Zhang Xiaolu , Sibia Naaz , Job Veronika , Petersen Andrew , Bauer Christina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Reframing failures as an opportunity for learning rather than a sign of fixed ability is a prominent element in a variety of growth mindset interventions – interventions that have enhanced people’s performance, interest, and well-being by highlighting that people can grow their abilities. We investigated the isolated effect of this treatment. Would an intervention solely focusing on reframing failures improve outcomes? To test this, we conducted a reframing-failure intervention in a longitudinal randomized-controlled experiment with a relatively large sample of students (N = 389) in a competitive computer science program over one semester. Surprisingly, the intervention did not have any significant positive effects. Exploratory analyses even show evidence of negative effects on students’ well-being. Possible explanations for findings are discussed. Broadly, results point to potential limitations of isolated reframing-failure messages.
Using the Power-Of-Two Vector Padding to Enhance Efficiency and Speed in CKKS Homomorphic Encryption
Authors: Osei-Wusu Franco , Ahene Emmanuel , Antwi Elvis Sarfo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The Cheon-Kim-Kim-Song (CKKS) encryption scheme has enabled secure data processing in sensitive domains and hence has transformed privacy-preserving computations due to its unique ability to support approximate arithmetic on real numbers. However, the computational challenges associated with non-power-of-two input vector lengths largely limit the broader adoption of the CKKS. This paper, proposes the Power-of-Two CKKS (P2PCKKS), an enhanced CKKS scheme that adopts a dynamic padding technique to align input vector lengths with the nearest power-of-two. The proposed scheme addresses key drawbacks such as computational errors and overflow, hence optimizing the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) for polynomial operations. While maintaining accuracy, the proposed scheme demonstrated an enhanced efficiency and speed, compared to the conventional CKKS scheme, even for vector inputs with lengths already as powers-of-two. The experiments’ results confirmed a 100% success rate across all computations, making the P2P-CKKS a robust solution for real-world applications requiring scalable and efficient homomorphic encryption. This paper prepares the groundwork for exploring how adaptive padding techniques can potentially be used to revolutionize encryption models.
Integrating Chromophoric and Instrumental Methods (SEM-EDS and FTIR) for Accurate Shooting Distance Estimation: An Inter-laboratory Study in Forensic Chemistry
Authors: Yüksel Bayram , Şen Nilgün , Şeker Mehmet Emin , Öğünç Gökhan İbrahim , Bulut Selma 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Accurate shooting distance estimation is critical in forensic investigations.
Traditional color tests like the Modified Griess Test (MGT) and Sodium Rhodizonate Test
(SRT) are commonly used but lack sensitivity and objectivity, necessitating improvements in
reproducibility and validation.

Methods:
A 7.62x39 mm cartridge was fired using an assault rifle (Sarsılmaz® SAR 308) at
fabric samples from distances ranging from 0 to 100 cm. MGT and SRT were employed to estimate
shooting distances, and the presence of inorganic and organic gunshot residues was confirmed
using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEMEDS)
and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with Attenuated Total Reflection (FTIRATR).
Inter-laboratory reproducibility was assessed through Relative Standard Deviation
(RSD), paired t-tests, and Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC).

Results:
MGT and SRT showed high reproducibility at short distances (RSD <11% up to 30
cm), but sensitivity decreased at longer distances, with an RSD of 28.6% for SRT at 100 cm.
Paired t-tests revealed statistically significant consistency between laboratories (p < 0.05), and a
strong negative correlation (PCC = -0.72) was found between shooting distance and residue
area.

method:
This research supports the use of SEM-EDS and FTIR to improve the accuracy of these color tests, providing improved forensic analysis of 7.62x39 mm cartridge firearms incidents.

Conclusion:
Integrating SEM-EDS and FTIR-ATR with MGT and SRT enhances the sensitivity,
objectivity, and reproducibility of shooting distance estimations. This multi-method approach
provides more reliable forensic evidence for criminal investigations.

result:
The inter-laboratory accuracy of these methods was evaluated, and SRT and MGT showed relative standard deviations of 9.48% and 10.30%, respectively.
Tv Digital Bagi Masyarakat Desa Kepuharjo Kec. Karangploso Kabupatan Malang Sebagai Upaya Mengatasi Kesenjangan Teknologi
Authors: Kusmaryanto Sigit , Hadi Pramono Sholeh , Ambarwati Sugiarto Rusmi , Faizan EP M. 
Published: December 2024

Saat ini masyarakat Karangploso prasejahtera masih menggunakan televisi analog. Sementara pemerintah Indonesia melalui Kementerian Komunikasi dan Informatika (Kemenkominfo) telah menetapkan rencana untuk menghentikan penyiaran televisi analog pada tahun 2022. Beberapa lokasi di daerah Karangploso ternyata juga memiliki kualitas sinyal digital yang lemah. Kualitas sinyal TV digital yang lemah mengakibatkan masyarakat tidak bisa mengakses siaran TV digital. Permasalahan tersebut menyebabkan kesenjangan teknologi informasi di Masyarakat Karangploso. Sesuai permintaan pemangku Desa Kepuharjo Kecamatan Karangploso, Tim Program PKM (Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat) Teknik Elektro FTUB melaksanakan kegiatan untuk mengatasi permasalahan di atas, yaitu pengadaan, instalasi alat penerima siaran TV digital bagi Masyarakat Karangploso Kab.Malang. Metode yang digunakan dalam pelaksanaan kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini, yaitu metode survey masyarakat prasejahtera, pengukuran wilayah blankspot siaran TV digital dan pengimplementasian rancang bangun modul TV Digital serta melakukan sosialisasi penggunaan TV Digital. Hasil kegiatan ini berupa terwujudnya Rancang bangun TV Digital yang dilakukan di dua tempat yaitu di Yayasan An Nahdliyah dan Rumah Ibu Nurul Khusayati. Perangkat TV Digital mampu menerima 36 saluran dengan kualitas gambar dan suara jernih. Masyarakat dan Pemangku Desa Kepuharjo sangat antusias dan menyatakan terimakasih serta puas dengan kegiatan ini.
Real-Time Triage, Position, and Documentation (TriPoD) During Medical Response to Major Incidents: Protocol for an Action Research Study
Authors: Rådestad Monica , Kanfjäll Torkel , Lindström Veronica 
Published: December 2024

Background
There is a need to address the implementation of technological innovation into emergency medical services to facilitate and improve information exchange between prehospital emergency care providers, command centers, and hospitals during major incidents to enable better allocation of resources and minimize loss of life. At present, there is a lack of technology supporting real-time information sharing in managing major incidents to optimize the use of resources available.

Objective
The aim of this protocol is to develop, design, and evaluate information technology innovations for use in medical response to major incidents.

Methods
This study has a qualitative action research design. This research approach is suitable for developing and changing practice in health care settings since it is cyclical in nature and involves development, evaluation, redevelopment, and replanning. The qualitative data collection will include workshops, structured meetings, semistructured interviews, questionnaires, observations, and focus group interviews. This study assesses the use of a digital solution for real-time information sharing by involving 3 groups of indented users: prehospital emergency care personnel, hospital personnel, and designated duty officers with experience and specific knowledge in managing major incidents. This study will explore end users’ experiences and needs, and a digital solution for prehospital and hospital settings will be developed in collaboration with technology producers.

Results
The trial implementation and evaluation phase for this study is from April 2024 to May 2026. Interviews and questionnaires with end users were conducted during the planning phase. We have performed observations in connection with 2 major exercises in April 2024 and November 2024. The outcome of this analysis will form the basis for the design and development of a new information technology system. We aim to complete the observations in training sessions and exercises (phase 3) by September 2025, followed by modification of the technology solutions tested (phase 4) before dissemination in a scientific journal.

Conclusions
This protocol includes several methods for data collection that will form the basis for the design and development process of a digital solution for real-time information sharing to support efficient management in major incidents based on the experiences and requirements of end users. The findings from this study will contribute to the limited research on users’ perspectives and the development of digital solutions for real-time information during major incidents.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)
PRR1-10.2196/57819