bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology and outcomes of multidrug-resistant bacterial infection in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis
Authors: Chang Chih-Hao , Chang Chiung-Hsin , Huang Shih-Hao , Lee Chung-Shu , Ko Po-Chuan , Lin Chun-Yu , Hsieh Meng-Heng , Huang Yu-Tung , Lin Horng-Chyuan , Li Li-Fu , Chung Fu-Tsai , Wang Chun-Hua , Huang Hung-Yu
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria impose a considerable health-care burden and are associated with bronchiectasis exacerbation. This study investigated the clinical outcomes of adult patients with bronchiectasis following MDR bacterial infection.

Methods

From the Chang Gung Research Database, we identified patients with bronchiectasis and MDR bacterial infection from 2008 to 2017. The control group comprised patients with bronchiectasis who did not have MDR bacterial infection and were propensity-score matched at a 1:2 ratio. The main outcomes were in-hospital and 3-year mortality.

Results

In total, 554 patients with both bronchiectasis and MDR bacterial infection were identified. The types of MDR bacteria that most commonly affected the patients were MDR- Acinetobacter baumannii (38.6%) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (18.4%), Extended-spectrum-beta-lactamases (ESBL)- Klebsiella pneumoniae (17.8%), MDR-Pseudomonas (14.8%), and ESBL-E. coli (7.5%). Compared with the control group, the MDR group exhibited lower body mass index scores, higher rate of chronic bacterial colonization, a higher rate of previous exacerbations, and an increased use of antibiotics. Furthermore, the MDR group exhibited a higher rate of respiratory failure during hospitalization (MDR vs. control, 41.3% vs. 12.4%; p < 0.001). The MDR and control groups exhibited in-hospital mortality rates of 26.7% and 7.6%, respectively (p < 0.001); 3-year respiratory failure rates of 33.5% and 13.5%, respectively (p < 0.001); and 3-year mortality rates of 73.3% and 41.5%, respectively (p < 0.001). After adjustments were made for confounding factors, the infection with MDR and MDR bacteria species were determined to be independent risk factors affecting in-hospital and 3-year mortality.

Conclusions

MDR bacteria were discovered in patients with more severe bronchiectasis and were independently associated with an increased risk of in-hospital and 3-year mortality. Given our findings, we recommend that clinicians identify patients at risk of MDR bacterial infection and follow the principle of antimicrobial stewardship to prevent the emergence of resistant bacteria among patients with bronchiectasis.
BeHERE’s effective virtual training to build capacity to support people who use drugs in non-substance use disorder settings
Authors: Kenefick Hope Worden , Wing Alexis
Published: February 2024

Background

Human service settings not specifically focused on supporting people who use drugs (PWUD), especially those with a substance use disorder (SUD), such as probation and parole services, homeless shelters, and work re-entry and job training programs, offer a unique opportunity to assist this population and prevent overdose deaths. During the COVID-19 pandemic (pandemic), building capacity in such settings for overdose prevention, harm reduction, and to address barriers to treatment, recovery, and support services required that training vendors use a virtual format. Post-pandemic, virtual training remains a cost-effective and convenient alternative to in-person training. The Behavioral Health and Racial Equity (BeHERE) Training Initiative of Health Resources in Action, which offers eight training modules on prevention, recovery, and harm reduction, delivered 224 online trainings between April 2020 and June 2022.

Methods

A mixed methods evaluation based upon the Kirkpatrick Training Evaluation Model was employed, which utilized post-training (n = 1272) and follow-up surveys (n = 62), and key informant interviews (n = 35).

Results

The findings showed BeHERE’s trainings were relevant, engaging, and satisfying to trainees; increased their knowledge, skills, and confidence; and influenced workplace performance. Some participants also indicated that the training influenced the effectiveness of their work with clients and other staff.

Conclusions

The evaluation identified aspects of training that make a virtual format effective at improving the capacity of non-SUD settings to address substance use and support PWUD. Findings offer insights for those interested in delivery of virtual training, as well as training to influence the practice of human service providers across different settings to support PWUD.
An evaluation of first responders’ intention to refer to post-overdose services following SHIELD training
Authors: Siddiqui Saad T. , La Manna Anna , Connors Elizabeth , Smith Ryan , Vance Kyle , Budesa Zach , Goulka Jeremiah , Beletsky Leo , Wood Claire A. , Marotta Phillip , Winograd Rachel P.
Published: February 2024

Background

First responders [law enforcement officers (LEO) and Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS)] can play a vital prevention role, connecting overdose survivors to treatment and recovery services. This study was conducted to examine the effect of occupational safety and harm reduction training on first responders’ intention to refer overdose survivors to treatment, syringe service, naloxone distribution, social support, and care-coordination services, and whether those intentions differed by first responder profession.

Methods

First responders in Missouri were trained using the Safety and Health Integration in the Enforcement of Laws on Drugs (SHIELD) model. Trainees’ intent to refer (ITR) overdose survivors to prevention and supportive services was assessed pre- and post-training (1–5 scale). A mixed model analysis was conducted to assess change in mean ITR scores between pre- and post-training, and between profession type, while adjusting for random effects between individual trainees and baseline characteristics.

Results

Between December 2020 and January 2023, 742 first responders completed pre- and post-training surveys. SHIELD training was associated with higher first responders’ intentions to refer, with ITR to naloxone distribution (1.83–3.88) and syringe exchange (1.73–3.69) demonstrating the greatest changes, and drug treatment (2.94–3.95) having the least change. There was a significant increase in ITR score from pre- to post-test (β = 2.15; 95% CI 1.99, 2.30), and LEO—relative to Fire/EMS—had a higher score at pre-test (0.509; 95% CI 0.367, 0.651) but a lower score at post-test (0.148; 95% CI − 0.004, 0.300).

Conclusion

Training bundling occupational safety with harm reduction content is immediately effective at increasing first responders’ intention to connect overdose survivors to community substance use services. When provided with the rationale and instruction to execute referrals, first responders are amenable, and their positive response highlights the opportunity for growth in increasing referral partnerships and collaborations. Further research is necessary to assess the extent to which ITR translates to referral behavior in the field.
The investigation of serum phenylalanine levels based on infant feeding method: a cross-sectional study of children less than two years old with phenylketonuria (PKU)
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Zaniar , Sharifi Loghman , Fatholahpour Asadolah , Bazshahi Elham
Published: February 2024

Background

Clinical advice may suggest discontinuing breastfeeding after the diagnosis of phenylketonuria in infants as the only effective way to monitor the newborn's intake and accurate measurement of phenylalanine (Phe). This study aims to investigate the prevalence and duration of breastfeeding, as well as its effect on serum Phe levels in infants with phenylketonuria at Education and Therapy Medical Center, Be'sat Hospital, Iran.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 34 children under two years old diagnosed with phenylketonuria between September 2018 and December 2022. Infants were categorized as breastfed and non-breastfed (bottle-fed) based on their feeding method after diagnosis. Data on age at diagnosis, medical records, demographic information, and anthropometric indices were collected, and infants with incomplete data or mixed feeding (formula + breast milk) were excluded from the study.

Results

Of 94 infants managed in our hospital, 34 had complete medical records. Among the all patients 13 (38%) continued to be breastfed combined with phenylalanine-free amino acid-based protein substitute, while 21 (62%) were did not receive breast milk. The mean duration of breastfeeding was 2.57 ± 0.59 (1–3) months. The mean age at diagnosis was 22.6 ± 18.4 days. Phenylalanine concentrations at diagnosis were mean 10, SD 5.44; range 4–24 mg/dL [0.22–1.33 μmol/L] in the breastfed group and mean 14.3, SD 10.2; range 5–37 mg/dL [0.27–2.05 μmol/L] in the non-breastfed group.Non-breastfed infants had lower serum Phe levels than breastfed infants: mean 3.76, SD 2.10; range 1–7 mg/dL [0.05–0.38 μmol/L] and mean 4.89, SD 3.68; range 2–19 mg/dL [0.11–1.05 μmol/L], respectively, although not statistically significant [(t (34) = 118.0, P = 0.51]. Also we found no significant associations in body measurements for weight, height, and head circumference at birth and final assessment.

Conclusions

In conclusion, during treatment, there were no statistically significant associations between breastfeeding and serum Phe levels with growth in children with phenylketonuria.
Translating patient needs into medical device development: co-design of a photoprotection visor for Xeroderma Pigmentosum using qualitative interviews
Authors: Graham Tanya , Sooriah Sangeeta , Chang Yan-Shing , Hashimdeen Shaikh , Meydan Turgut , Grocott Patricia
Published: February 2024

Introduction

People with Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP) have a heightened sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and are advised to wear photoprotective clothing including a visor covering the face and neck. Photoprotective visors are homemade and predominately worn by children with decreasing frequency as age increases. To improve upon the current design and efficacy we were tasked with developing a prototype visor to meet patients’ needs.

Methods

Adopting a codesign methodology, patients’ experiences of wearing a visor and patient and carer views of emerging prototypes were explored during interviews. A thematic analysis was conducted in parallel with data collection and themes were interpreted into design cues; desirable attributes of a visor that would counteract the negative user experiences and meet the requirements described by patients and carers. The design cues guided the iterative development of prototypes by academic engineers.

Results

Twenty-four interviews were conducted with patients and carers. Thematic analysis resulted in the following five themes: Being safe from UVR exposure; self-consciousness; temperature effects; acoustic difficulties; and material properties. The following design cues were developed from the themes respectively; materials and design with high UVR protection; ability to customise with own headwear; ventilation to reduce steaming up; acoustic functionality to enable hearing and speech; foldable, portable, and easy to put on and take off.

Conclusions

It is important to understand people’s experiences of using medical devices to improve their safety, efficiency and user satisfaction. The user experience themes and design cues, informed the iterative development of low fidelity visor prototypes as part of a codesign process. These design cues and responses to the prototypes are guiding commercial manufacturing and regulatory approval. The visor can then be prescribed to patients, providing an equitable service of care.
Temperature impacts the bovine ex vivo immune response towards Mycoplasmopsis bovis
Authors: Démoulins Thomas , Yimthin Thatcha , Lindtke Dorothea , Eggerschwiler Lukas , Siegenthaler Raphael , Labroussaa Fabien , Jores Joerg
Published: February 2024

Although cattle are the mammalian species with most global biomass associated with a huge impact on our planet, their immune system remains poorly understood. Notably, the bovine immune system has peculiarities such as an overrepresentation of γδ T cells that requires particular attention, specifically in an infectious context. In line of 3R principles, we developed an ex vivo platform to dissect host–pathogen interactions. The experimental design was based on two independent complementary readouts: firstly, a novel 12–14 color multiparameter flow cytometry assay measuring maturation (modulation of cell surface marker expression) and activation (intracellular cytokine detection) of monocytes, conventional and plasmacytoid dendritic cells, natural killer cells, γδ T cells, B and T cells; secondly, a multiplex immunoassay monitoring bovine chemokine and cytokine secretion levels. The experiments were conducted on fresh primary bovine blood cells exposed to Mycoplasmopsis bovis (M. bovis), a major bovine respiratory pathogen. Besides reaffirming the tight cooperation of the different primary blood cells, we also identified novel key players such as strong IFN-γ secreting NK cells, whose role was so far largely overlooked. Additionally, we compared the host–pathogen interactions at different temperatures, including commonly used 37 °C, ruminant body temperature (38–38.5 °C) and fever (≥ 39.5 °C). Strikingly, working under ruminant physiological temperature influenced the capacity of most immune cell subsets to respond to M. bovis compared to 37 °C. Under fever-like temperature conditions the immune response was impaired compared to physiological temperature. Our experimental approach, phenotypically delineating the bovine immune system provided a thorough vision of the immune response towards M. bovis and the influence of temperature towards that immune response.
Bronchiectasis in renal transplant patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mulette Pauline , Perotin Jeanne-Marie , Muggeo Anaëlle , Guillard Thomas , Brisebarre Audrey , Meyer Hélène , Hagenburg Jean , Ancel Julien , Dormoy Valérian , Vuiblet Vincent , Launois Claire , Lebargy François , Deslee Gaëtan , Dury Sandra
Published: February 2024

Background

Bronchiectasis is a chronic airway disease characterized by permanent and irreversible abnormal dilatation of bronchi. Several studies have reported the development of bronchiectasis after renal transplantation (RT), but no prospective study specifically assessed bronchiectasis in this population. This study aimed to compare features of patients with bronchiectasis associated with RT to those with idiopathic bronchiectasis.

Methods

Nineteen patients with bronchiectasis associated with RT (RT-B group) and 23 patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis (IB group) were prospectively included in this monocentric cross-sectional study. All patients underwent clinical, functional, laboratory, and CT scan assessments. Sputum was collected from 25 patients (n = 11 with RT-B and n = 14 with IB) and airway microbiota was analyzed using an extended microbiological culture.

Results

Dyspnea (≥ 2 on mMRC scale), number of exacerbations, pulmonary function tests, total bronchiectasis score, severity and prognosis scores (FACED and E-FACED), and quality of life scores (SGRQ and MOS SF-36) were similar in the RT-B and IB groups. By contrast, chronic cough was less frequent in the RT-B group than in the IB group (68% vs. 96%, p = 0.03). The prevalence and diversity of the airway microbiota in sputum were similar in the two groups.

Conclusion

Clinical, functional, thoracic CT scan, and microbiological characteristics of bronchiectasis are overall similar in patients with IB and RT-B. These results highlight that in RT patients, chronic respiratory symptoms and/or airway infections should lead to consider the diagnosis of bronchiectasis. Further studies are required to better characterize the pathophysiology of RT-B including airway microbiota, its incidence, and impact on therapeutic management.
Understanding physician burnout in Oman: current status, cultural influences and future directions
Authors: Al Alawi Mohammed , Al Ghailani Abdullah
Published: February 2024

Amidst the current global surge in physician burnout, a compelling need arises for precisely targeted research and interventions that cater to specific contexts, illuminating a path towards professional well-being. This brief communication analyses recent studies on physician burnout in Oman, critically evaluating the findings, cultural factors, methodological limitations and future growth opportunities. Distinct elements of Omani culture, encompassing attitudes towards mental illness, gender roles and patient expectations, can distinctly influence how burnout presents in this population. Advanced mixed-methods research integrating cultural insights, biomarkers and longitudinal tracking is needed to characterise burnout in Omani physicians. The findings can play a significant role in developing comprehensive interventions, at both a systemic and an individual level, that promote well-being of physicians while specifically aligning with the cultural values of Oman.
Ψηφιακή νεολαία και ευρωπαϊκή πολιτική
Authors: Πολύδωρα Άννα-Ελένη
Published: February 2024

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή αναφέρεται στην ανάπτυξη του ανθρωπίνου καικοινωνικού κεφαλαίου της ψηφιακής νεολαίας της Ευρώπης. Για τη μελέτη του συγκεκριμένου ερευνητικού αντικειμένου αξιοποιείται η μέθοδος της διερεύνησης. Είναι ποιοτική, διότι στηρίζεται σε έγκυρα και αξιόπιστα ευρήματα, τα οποία αφορούν τον εντοπισμό της έννοιας του ψηφιακού γραμματισμού στα επίσημα κείμενα που συνιστούν τις προτροπές της Ευρωπαϊκής Επιτροπής, τις αποφάσεις του Συμβουλίου των Υπουργών και του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου. Τα συμπεράσματα που προκύπτουν ελέγχονται και υποστηρίζονται από δευτερογενή ποσοτικά δεδομένα άλλων ερευνητών και της Eurostat. Κατά τη διαδικασία διερεύνησης των κειμένων δίνεται έμφαση στη χρήση του λογισμικού RQDA, το οποίο συνιστά πακέτο της γλώσσας προγραμματισμού “R”. Η σύνδεση του ψηφιακού γραμματισμού των νέων με το ανθρώπινο κεφάλαιο βασίζεται στην ανάπτυξη των ψηφιακών δεξιοτήτων, αλλά και άλλων δεξιοτήτων που συνδέονται με αυτές και επιτρέπουν στους νέους να εξελιχθούν επαγγελματικά, προσωπικά και οικονομικά. Οι θεματικοί τομείς μέσα από τους οποίους πραγματώνεται η εν λόγω σύνδεση είναι της εκπαίδευσης, της απασχόλησης και της νεολαίας. Η σύνδεση του κοινωνικού κεφαλαίου με τον ψηφιακό γραμματισμό των νέων επιτυγχάνεται πρωτίστως μέσα από την ενδυνάμωση της κοινωνικής ενεργοποίησης και του αισθήματος της ασφάλειας κατά την πλοήγηση των χρηστών στο διαδίκτυο ή/και κατά τη χρήση των νέων τεχνολογιών. Η απόκτηση δεξιοτήτων ψηφιακού γραμματισμού είναι άρρηκτα συνδεδεμένη με την ανάπτυξη του ανθρωπίνου και κοινωνικού κεφαλαίου του σύγχρονου ανθρώπου.
Osteoarticular complications in diabetes - literature review
Authors: Przyborowska Kinga , Getka Beata , Łata Michał , Wiejak Katarzyna , Rukat Mateusz , Kwiecień Justyna
Published: February 2024

Due to the increasing number of patients suffering from diabetes mellitus scientists raise awareness of different symptoms that patients might present.

The disease results from a defect in insulin secretion or action. Chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes causes damage and dysfunction of organs, especially the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and blood vessels. Diabetes can occur at any age and always requires treatment. 

A common non-specific symptom of untreated DM may be osteoarticular complications.

Typical symptoms of diabetes include polyuria, increased thirst, dehydration, weakness and drowsiness. Complications of the disease include eyes, kidneys, nerves, microangiopathies, diabetic foot syndrome, bones, joints, skin. In all patients, the most important thing is to control glycemia from the beginning of the disease
Afrobubblegum, resistencia e esperança queer em Rafiki (2018), de Wanuri Kahiu.
Authors: Ravazzano Lucas , Asevedo Everaldo
Published: February 2024

No presente artigo, propomo-nos a analisar as contribuições de Wanuri Kahiu para o cinema queer africano. Abordaremos como em Rafiki (2018), apenas seu segundo longa-metragem como realizadora, Kahiu apresenta e desenvolve esteticamente as premissas de uma arte Afrobubblegum por ela proposta, de modo a retratar, num contexto de esperança e novas possibilidades, a experiência de ser queer numa África heterossexista. Para tanto, a pesquisa irá recorrer a trabalhos como os de Diawara (2007, 2010) e Adichie (2009) de modo a demonstrar como a proposta estética da diretora visa contrapor visões predominantemente pessimistas que o cinema projeta a respeito de países africanos. Adicionalmente, exploraremos a história de luta e resistência da diretora queniana para ver seu filme chegar às telas de seu país de nascimento e a importância que a exibição desta obra, nos cinemas do Quênia, teve como momento de celebração da existência de pessoas queer no continente africano. Essas discussões serão conduzidas a partir de contribuições como as de Louro (2008) e Green-Simms (2022) a respeito da importância do cinema queer criar histórias que mostrem a resistência e esperança diante de realidades opressivas.
COMERCIO TRANSIMPERIAL, SAQUEOS MARÍTIMOS Y REDES DE COMPLICIDAD A MEDIADOS DEL SIGLO XVIII EN EL MAR CARIBE.
Authors: Elías Caro Jorge , Román Romero Raúl , Vidal Ortega Antonino
Published: February 2024

Este artículo analiza el papel que jugaron las empresas corsarias en el mar Caribe en el siglo XVIII. A través del proceder de estas empresas podemos apreciar la articulación del comercio regional caribeño en un escenario de luchas y conflictos imperiales por el control del comercio americano. Especialmente, analizamos las actuaciones corsarias españolas tras la pérdida del monopolio mercantil en el Caribe luego del tratado de Utrecht.
LA REAL JUNTA DE FORTIFICACIONES DE CÁDIZ EN LA VERTEBRACIÓN DE UN MODELO DE DEFENSA EN EL ATLÁNTICO HISPANO, 1727-1800.
Authors: Padrón Reyes Lilyam
Published: February 2024

El artículo examina el papel de la Real Junta de Fortificaciones de Cádiz y su papel en la consolidación del entorno gaditano como paradigma del modelo de defensa hispano durante el periodo 1727-1800. Asimismo, se analizan algunos de los más importantes proyectos defensivos proyectados durante el período, destacando la actuación del Real Cuerpo de Ingenieros en la configuración y el posicionamiento de Cádiz como uno de los nodos militares y estratégicos más significativos de la Monarquía hispana durante el siglo XVII
LA PERCEPCIÓN DEL “OTRO” EN LA PRIMERA EXPEDICIÓN DEL CAPITÁN DE NAVÍO D. ANTONIO DE CÓRDOBA AL ESTRECHO DE MAGALLANES (1785-1786).
Authors: Gullón Abao lberto José
Published: February 2024

El Atlántico sur, durante la segunda mitad del siglo XVIII, se convirtió en un espacio de conflicto al confluir intereses de las grandes potencias europeas. Como respuesta, la Corona española, a través de la Armada, realizó numerosas expediciones, como la de Antonio de Córdoba, que proporcionaron información de primer orden sobre rutas, recursos y pobladores. Estas descripciones sobre los “otros” permitieron avanzar en la diferenciación etnográfica y replantear interpretaciones antropológicas.
EL COMERCIO MARÍTIMO ENTRE ESTADOS UNIDOS Y ESPAÑA Y PORTUGAL. 1790-1812.
Authors: Carrasco González Guadalupe
Published: February 2024

En este artículo se aborda el tema del tráfico marítimo mercantil entre los puertos estadounidenses del distrito de Filadelfia y de Nueva Inglaterra, con España y Portugal en la última década del siglo XVIII y en la primera del siglo XIX. La base documental principal de este estudio la constituyen los registros de entrada y salida de las aduanas estadounidenses, junto a numerosa correspondencia de mercaderes norteamericanos.
EL CANCILLER DE LA AUDIENCIA Y CHANCILLERÍA DE SANTA FE: PREEMINENCIAS, HONORES Y PRERROGATIVAS.
Authors: Pérez Cañete Jorge
Published: February 2024

La importancia que se le daba en la sociedad de la Edad Moderna a aspectos tan interesantes como la jerarquía, el rango o el lugar ocupado en ceremonias y actos públicos fue motivo de numerosos conflictos entre los miembros de instituciones representantes del poder del monarca, tales como los que ponemos de relieve en este trabajo, reflejando la lucha por la defensa de sus preeminencias por parte del chanciller y registrador de la Real Audiencia de Santa Fe
ACTORES Y PRÁCTICAS DOCUMENTALES DE INTERACCIÓN ENTRE LOS CABILDOS Y LAS CAJAS REALES DE HACIENDA RIOPLATENSES EN EL PERÍODO COLONIAL.
Authors: Caño Ortigosa José Luis
Published: February 2024

En este trabajo hacemos un primer acercamiento a los documentos más utilizados en la interacción entre los Cabildos Seculares y las Cajas Reales durante el período colonial. Se concreta en el caso rioplatense, del que se presentan sus singularidades a partir de la investigación realizada en archivos nacionales y locales. El objetivo que se plantea no es desde una perspectiva diplomática, sino identificar cómo se utilizaron esos instrumentos burocráticos por parte de la Corona y de las instituciones básicas de gobierno, justicia y hacienda dentro de las tensiones y equilibrios propios entre control estatal y autonomía local.
LOS AFRO-ARGENTINOS EN LA GACETA MERCANTIL DE BUENOS AIRES (1823-1826).
Authors: Castilla Vázquez Carmen , Martín Casares Aurelia , Vera Chacón Marcela Cecilia
Published: February 2024

Este artículo se centra en el análisis de las noticias relativas a personas de origen negroafricano contenidas en La Gaceta Mercantil: diario comercial, político y literario de Buenos Aires, durante los años de 1823 a 1826. Examinamos la realidad de los afrodescendientes en una Argentina que buscó “blanquearse” tras el siglo XIX para atraer inmigrantes europeos. La mayoría de estas personas eran esclavos y esclavas, aunque también los hubo libres y libertos. El intento de blanquear la historia ha desembocado en la invisibilización y estigmatización de este grupo humano a pesar de su contribución en la formación de Argentina. Por todo ello, nuestro objetivo es recuperar parte de su memoria.
An Exact Solution to Wordle
Authors: Bertsimas Dimitris , Paskov Alex
Published: February 2024

Optimal Strategies for Wordle and its Variants

Motivated by the recent, explosive popularity of Wordle and a suite of suboptimal attempts to solve the game, “An Exact Solution to Wordle,” by Dimitris Bertsimas and Alex Paskov, proposes a new and scalable framework to exactly solve Wordle and any of its variants. Namely through modeling the game as a finite-state Markov decision process and deriving several theoretical and computational speed-ups, Bertsimas and Paskov outline an algorithm to solve the game. Ultimately, they find that “SALET” is the best starting word and that the best strategy solves the game in 3.42 moves in expectation. Results and analysis are also extended for recent variants and settings, such as Wordle Hard Mode or optimizing against a worst-case situation.
Psychosocial Functionality in Adolescents with Inborn Errors of Immunity During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: GÜVEN Ayşe Gül , ESENBOĞA Saliha , PEHLİVANTÜRK KIZILKAN Melis , ASLAN Cihan , AKARSU Ayşegül , KARABULUT Erdem , AKDEMİR Devrim , ÖKSÜZ KANBUR Nuray , AYVAZ Deniz , TEZCAN İlhan , DERMAN Orhan
Published: February 2024

Objective: We aimed to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the psychosocial functioning of adolescents with inborn errors of immunity (IEI).
Material and Methods: Thirty-six patients with IEI (18 mild, 18 severe) and 18 healthy controls aged between 10 and 17 were included in this study. Adolescents and their caregivers completed the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS) to measure symptoms of anxiety and depression and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) to assess prosocial behaviors and emotional/behavioral problems. Additionally, the COVID-19 Phobia Scale (C19P-S) was answered by adolescents to assess the level of coronavirus phobia.
Results: According to SDQ, emotional scores of the adolescents in the control group are higher than the mild/severe patient group. Emotional scores of the severe patient group are higher than the mild group. The RCADS parent- and adolescent-reported depression scores and parent-reported social phobia scores of the control group were significantly higher than the mild group.There were no statistically significant differences between the groups according to COVID-19 Phobia Scale.
Conclusion: The healthy adolescents had higher psychiatric symptom scores, especially than the adolescents with mild IEI. We suggest that being exposed to health-related challenges even before the pandemics in adolescents with IEI helped them develop psychological resilience. Longitudinal and larger studies are needed to evaluate the long-term effects of the pandemic on the mental health of this vulnerable adolescent population.
EVALUATION OF CONTAINER TERMINAL SYSTEM PERFORMANCE IN TANJUNG PERAK SURABAYA PORT IN INCREASING CUSTOMER SATISFACTION USING BINARY LOGISTICS REGRESSION
Authors: Khaeruddin Muhammad Raehan , Achmadi Tri
Published: February 2024

In this sophisticated era, we can do almost anything, and we can get it easily. No exception with the necessities of life that we can get easily from one place and sent to us via transportation services, even goods with a large capacity. One of the transportation services that can efficiently deliver goods in large quantities is sea transportation via ships with a shipping system using containers. Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya is one of the ports that provides container loading and unloading services. For this reason, in this study an evaluation of the performance of container terminals at the Port of Tanjung Perak Surabaya will be carried out by looking at the factors that influence customer satisfaction (Y), which consist of several predictor variables, namely price of goods (X1), weight of goods (X2) and Travel Time (X3) using the binary logistic regression method, which is a method used to model the response variable consisting of two categories and is appropriate for modeling data consisting of possible events with response variables consisting of two choice categories. Logistic regression will form a predictor/response variable, which is a linear combination of the independent variables. In this study, modeling was carried out to determine the relationship between whether the predictor variable affects the response variable and the extent to which this variable influences it. After knowing the variables that contribute to customer satisfaction, these variables can then be used as evaluation material, whether they need to be increased or reduced. Based on the results of the study, it was found that the variable weight of goods (X2) has a significant influence on customer satisfaction with a classification accuracy of 88.1%, so it must be optimized related to the container capacity that contains customer goods because, if this variable increases by 1 unit, it will increase the probability of customer satisfaction is 1.792 times and this increase is higher than the other variables.
OPTIMIZING OIL VESSEL TERMINAL LAYOUT: A COMPREHENSIVE LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Filemon F , Gumelar Fajar , Nugroho Setyo
Published: February 2024

This research paper systematically explores oil vessel terminal layout optimization, emphasizing safety considerations, environmental impact assessment, and efficient infrastructure design. The study employs a comprehensive methodology involving literature review and data synthesis, delving into technical and organizational safety aspects, safety exclusion zones, and the key components comprising an oil vessel terminal layout. By providing a holistic overview and a visual representation of terminal infrastructure, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities involved, offering valuable insights for industry practitioners and future research endeavours in this domain.
ANALYSIS OF MAN-HOUR REQUIREMENTS AND SCHEDULING FOR FLOATING DOCK REPAIRS
Authors: Ramadhani Salsabila , Hardiyanti Fitri , Suhardjito Gaguk , Soelistijono Rachmad Tri , Wahidin Aang
Published: February 2024

A floating dock (FD) is a platform for ship construction and repair. Structural damages to a FD can significantly reduce ship docking productivity, leading to substantial losses for shipyard companies. In order to restore its operational capabilities, repairing the damaged FD becomes essential. This research aims to plan and analyze the schedule to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of FD repair activities. The process begins with the establishment of a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), followed by determining the required man hours (MH) and scheduling using the Precedence Diagram Method (PDM). Finally, the S-curve is made for monitoring the progress of the FD repairment. The findings of this study, based on a case study involving a 6700 TLC FD, reveal a WBS comprising 66 repair tasks including two tasks for FD testing and finishing in addition to four areas of hull, walls, deck and tanks, piping systems, and machinery. The MH requirement for these tasks is 4048 MH. From the scheduling results, it was found that the duration was 12 days, with a total of 53 critical activities and 25 critical paths in the floating dock repair work using the precedence diagram method.
MANAGING THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN INDONESIAN SEA TRANSPORTATION
Authors: Utama I K A P , Setyawan D , Riyadi S , Hetharia W R , Thomas G A , Ryan C , Rosa A G L , Huang L
Published: February 2024

COVID-19 has been pandemic since the early 2020 and many efforts have been carried out worldwide. Among others, managing the spread of pandemic has been focused on air transportation since the mobility of people has been more actively using aeroplane hence the possibility of infecting people is much higher. Despite less intense, efforts to minimise the blow-out of COVID-19 in sea transportation have also been conducted. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) released guidance such pretravel information to crews and customers The types of guidance include the following items, namely pre-departure, social distancing, the use of masks, personal hygiene, environmental hygiene, and training. In the case of Indonesia, similar direction is introduced and implemented to cargo and passenger vessels. The current paper discusses the Indonesian regulation of managing COVID-19, which is based on IMO/WHO guidance, together with its implementation in the daily activities of people in sea transportation. A survey questionnaire is made out to collect the relevant information. The discussion covers the implementation of such guidance to Indonesian cargo and passenger vessels difficulties in applying the regulation on those ships and the related solutions.
Sprayable hydroxypropyl chitin/collagen extract of Ampelopsis brevipedunculata hydrogel accelerates wound healing
Authors: Huang Te-Yang , Wang Yi-Wen , Liao Hui-Xiang , Su Wen-Ta
Published: February 2024

Objective:

Keeping a wound moist can allow effective and rapid healing, and it can control the formation of scabs, thereby allowing cell proliferation and epithelial formation. When regularly changing a dressing, thermosensitive hydrogel as a moist dressing does not cause a secondary wound from adhesion. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a new sprayable thermosensitive hydrogel on wound healing.

Method:

The hydrophobic N-acetyl group of chitin was removed by microwave reaction with lye until the degree of acetylation was 60%, followed by reaction with propylene oxide to obtain hydroxypropyl chitin (HPCH) with a degree of substitution of 40%. After mixing HPCH with fish scale collagen (FSC), a thermosensitive hydrogel with a gel temperature of 26.5°C was obtained. Ampelopsis brevipedunculata extracts (ABE), which have been found to accelerate wound repair and improve healing, were added. HPCH/FSC is not toxic to the mouse L929 cell line and forms a hydrogel at body surface temperature. It can be easily sprayed on a wound. The HPCH/FSC has a three-dimensional network porous structure with a swelling ratio of 10.95:1 and a water vapour transmission rate of 2386.03±228.87g/m2/day; it can facilitate the penetration of water and air, and promote absorption of wound exudate. Wound repair was performed on five Sprague–Dawley rats. Each rat had three wounds, which were treated with medical gauze, HPCH/FSC and HPCH/FSC/ABE, respectively.

Results:

The wounds in the HPCH/FSC/ABE group recovered the fastest in vivo, the mature wound site was smoother, the re-epithelialisation was even and thicker, and the angiogenesis developed rapidly to the mature stage.

Conclusion:

In this study, HPCH/FSC/ABE thermosensitive hydrogel was shown to effectively accelerate wound healing and was convenient for practical application.
‘Lockdown babies’
Authors: Parkes Jo
Published: February 2024

It has been four years since the Covid-19 pandemic began to change the world. In the first of this series on its legacy, Jo Parkes looks at its impact on children's health
Nursery World visits… Naturally Learning Falmouth
Authors: Weinstein Nicole
Published: February 2024

Nicole Weinstein visits a nature-based nursery in Cornwall where the indoor environment matches the beauty of the outdoors
The sky at night
Authors: Mountain Julie , Robinson Felicity
Published: February 2024

Unleash children's curiosity about the night sky, with a host of activity and clever resources ideas. By Julie Mountain and Felicity Robinson
We've explored…artists
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: February 2024

One nursery group is exploring famous artists through dedicated studios, discovers Annette Rawstrone
An A to Z of enhancements R is for Ramps
Authors: Jackson Amy
Published: February 2024

Building a ramp to race cars down led to a wider exploration of ramps for various rolling objects, explains Amy Jackson
Doing the locomotion
Authors: Vollans Caroline
Published: February 2024

What are fundamental movement skills? By Caroline Vollans
Earning while learning
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: February 2024

Following recent changes designed to make EY apprenticeships more attractive, Karen Hart looks at the opportunities they provide for both trainees and settings
HR guru: SAFE HANDS
Authors: Edmunds Imogen
Published: February 2024

Imogen Edmunds, managing director of Redwing Solutions, which specialises in HR for early years settings, on ‘safer’ recruitment
Research on Chaotic Image Encryption Based on Fibonacci-ILogistic-IHenon
Authors: Yang Yong , Chen Xuan , Xu Jiaying , Li Yuxia
Published: February 2024

To further improve the security of image encryption, we propose an image encryption algorithm that combines Fibonacci with improved logistic and improved Henon chaotic mapping, i.e., the Fibonacci-ILogistic-IHenon algorithm. The algorithm addresses that the existing logistic chaotic algorithm is controlled by the parameter resulting in an uneven distribution, and the Henon chaotic algorithm may have the problem of periodic orbits. Using the mode-taking and sinusoidal functions for optimization, the output sequence region generated by the logistic chaotic mapping is adjusted to the input of the Henon chaotic mapping, which enables the construction of a new chaotic system (ILogistic-IHenon). In the image encryption implementation, Fibonacci is used to cure the chaos, and ILogistic-IHenon is utilized to generate chaotic sequences to complete the encryption. In the simulation experiments, we choose the improved logistic encryption algorithm, the improved Henon encryption algorithm, and the improved logistic-ent encryption algorithm as the comparison algorithms, and the results illustrate that the Fibonacci-ILogistic-IHenon algorithm has better performance in image encryption statistical analysis, encryption speed, pixel correlation analysis, information entropy analysis, differential attack analysis and other metrics.
Baked In: Cooking and Cannabis in Viceland
Authors: Oren Tasha
Published: February 2024

abstract: This article examines Viceland's rise and fall through its pot-friendly food programming. Vice's wielding of cooking and cannabis as ideal expressions of its masculine, countercultural brand is analyzed here through intersecting histories of the evolving cultural status of cannabis, food television's generic conventions, and Vice Media's own problematic corporate history. This situated reading demonstrates how TV can weave emerging politics into the fabric of popular culture precisely through its most procedurally familiar forms. Yet Viceland's history and contrived TV environment also produce a generative ambiguity that complicates the programs' political engagement.
Toward a Feminist Montage: Reading for the Cut in Ana Mendieta's Sweating Blood
Authors: Reese Carrie
Published: February 2024

abstract: This article develops an alternate concept of the filmic cut with influences from both montage theory and feminist film history. Deriving this alternate concept of the cut from Ana Mendieta's moving image work, I examine Sweating Blood (1973) as it couples the cut with an aesthetic violence, producing a version of the cut that contributes to a feminist discourse on filmic manipulation, intermedia, and montage. This theory of the cut is informed not only by Mendieta but also by those who have inspired alternate ways of thinking about "the cut," including Yoko Ono, Maggie Nelson, Sergei Eisenstein, and Luis Buñuel.
Watching News in Public: The Rituals and Responses of Newsreel Theater Audiences
Authors: Stamm Michael
Published: February 2024

abstract: From roughly 1930 to 1950, newsreel theaters played important roles in urban and film cultures. These small (200- to 600-seat) theaters showed hour-long loops of news that patrons could drop into from morning to midnight. Some aspects of the newsreel theater experience extended the rituals of nickelodeon spectatorship of earlier decades, and others predated the post–World War II development of television news consumption. Newsreel theaters allowed patrons to pass the time watching motion picture news, and they became politically charged spaces offering ways for people to watch and react vocally to the news in public as members of groups.
La poética de los desechos en Los papeleros de Isidora Aguirre
Authors: Donoso Arnaldo , Mella Paulo , Montero David , Reyes Carolina
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Existing research on Chilean playwright Isidora Aguirre's work has focused on her development of a critical discourse on marginality, exploitation, and the reconstruction of twentieth-century national narratives. The approaches that study Brechtian, melodramatic, and discursive procedures stand out in this context. In this article, we argue that Aguirre's drama Los papeleros (1963) can be also studied as an ecodrama through the lens of ecocriticism. We argue that Los papeleros ' interest by ecocriticism and environmental humanities stems from the use of a rhetoric of waste, the agency of the dramatic space of the dump and garbage, and the aesthetic treatment of papeleros (trash pickers) and their lives in relation to the ecological conditions in which they live.
Frameworks for measuring population health: A scoping review
Authors: Chan Sze Ling , Ho Clement Zhong Hao , Khaing Nang Ei Ei , Ho Ezra , Pong Candelyn , Guan Jia Sheng , Chua Calida , Li Zongbin , Lim Trudi , Lam Sean Shao Wei , Low Lian Leng , How Choon How
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Many regions in the world are using the population health approach and require a means to measure the health of their population of interest. Population health frameworks provide a theoretical grounding for conceptualization of population health and therefore a logical basis for selection of indicators. The aim of this scoping review was to provide an overview and summary of the characteristics of existing population health frameworks that have been used to conceptualize the measurement of population health.

Methods

We used the Population, Concept and Context (PCC) framework to define eligibility criteria of frameworks. We were interested in frameworks applicable for general populations, that contained components of measurement of health with or without its antecedents and applied at the population level or used a population health approach. Eligible reports of eligible frameworks should include at least domains and subdomains, purpose, or indicators. We searched 5 databases (Pubmed, EMBASE, Web of Science, NYAM Grey Literature Report, and OpenGrey), governmental and organizational sites on Google and websites of selected organizations using keywords from the PCC framework. Characteristics of the frameworks were summarized descriptively and narratively.

Results

Fifty-seven frameworks were included. The majority originated from the US (46%), Europe (23%) and Canada (19%). Apart from 1 framework developed for rural populations and 2 for indigenous populations, the rest were for general urban populations. The numbers of domains, subdomains and indicators were highly variable. Health status and social determinants of health were the most common domains across all frameworks. Different frameworks had different priorities and therefore focus on different domains.

Conclusion

Key domains common across frameworks other than health status were social determinants of health, health behaviours and healthcare system performance. The results in this review serve as a useful resource for governments and healthcare organizations for informing their population health measurement efforts.
Discovery and characterization of anti-cancer peptides from a random peptide library
Authors: Puvvula Pavan Kumar , Moon Anne M.
Published: February 2024

We performed a forward genetic screen to discover peptides that specifically target breast cancer cells using a Penetratin tagged, random 15mer peptide library. We identified a group of novel peptides that specifically inhibited the proliferation and survival of breast cancer cells without affecting normal primary mammary epithelial cells or fibroblasts. The intrinsic apoptotic pathway is activated by these peptides in the face of abnormal expression of numerous cell cycle regulatory genes. Associated alterations in histone marks, nuclear structure, and levels of critical RNA binding proteins vary in a peptide specific manner. This study demonstrates a novel method for the discovery of new potential therapeutic peptides.
Characterisation of IS1311 in Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis genomes: Typing, continental clustering, microbial evolution and host adaptation
Authors: Mizzi Rachel , Plain Karren M. , Timms Verlaine J. , Marsh Ian , Whittington Richard J.
Published: February 2024

Johne’s disease (JD), caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is a global burden for livestock producers and has an association with Crohn’s disease in humans. Within MAP there are two major lineages, S/Type I/TypeIII and C/Type II, that vary in phenotype including culturability, host preference and virulence. These lineages have been identified using the IS1311 element, which contains a conserved, single nucleotide polymorphism. IS1311 and the closely related IS1245 element belong to the IS256 family of insertion sequences, are dispersed throughout M. avium taxa but remain poorly characterised. To investigate the distribution and diversity of IS1311 in MAP, 805 MAP genomes were collated from public databases. IS1245 was absent, while IS1311 sequence, copy number and insertion loci were conserved between MAP S lineages and varied within the MAP C lineage. One locus was specific to the S strains, which contained nine IS1311 copies. In contrast, C strains contained either seven or eight IS1311 loci. Most insertion loci were associated with the boundaries of homologous regions that had undergone genome rearrangement between the MAP lineages, suggesting that this sequence may be a driver of recombination. Phylogenomic geographic clustering of MAP subtypes was demonstrated for the first time, at continental scale, and indicated that there may have been recent MAP transmission between Europe and North America, in contrast to Australia where importation of live ruminants is generally prohibited. This investigation confirmed the utility of IS1311 typing in epidemiological studies and resolved anomalies in past studies. The results shed light on potential mechanisms of niche/host adaptation, virulence of MAP and global transmission dynamics.