Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Management of Deep Neck Space Infections: A Large Tertiary Center Experience

Introduction: Deep neck space infections (DNIs) represent serious bacterial infections affecting the deep cervical space and fascial planes of the neck. This study aims to describe our clinical and surgical experience in the management of DNIs, emphasizing the importance of appropriate imaging in the diagnostic setting and the role of the multidisciplinary approach according to the severity of the infection. Methods: In this retrospective study, we describe 85 patients affected by DNIs coming to the Otolaryngology department observation from the Emergency Room of San Camillo Forlanini Hospital in Rome from January 2006 to December 2021 and treated both by pharmacological and surgical therapy. Results: 54 patients (64%) were male, and 31 (36%) were female, with a mean age of 50.5 years. The most common cause of DNI was odontogenic, accounting for 70% of all collected cases. In 68 patients (80% of all cases), the surgical approach consisted of an extended unilateral cervicotomy, whereas in 17 patients (20% of all cases), a bilateral cervicotomy was performed. Surgical revision was required in 15 cases (18%). A tracheostomy was necessary in seven cases. The overall survival rate was 96.5%. Conclusions: DNI represents a serious and life-threatening condition, remaining a constant challenge for the head and neck surgeon. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is critical for therapeutic planning, which requires both a surgical approach and antibiotic therapy. Surgical treatment should be performed as soon as possible. In severe cases, the multidisciplinary approach is advisable.
Experimental study of a jet in a crossflow at very low Reynolds number

Flow visualizations and phase-averaged particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements of a jet in crossflow configuration at very low Reynolds numbers (Rej ≃ 100) are performed in a water tunnel for jet-to-cross-stream velocity ratios R ranging from 1.5 to 4.5. The PIV vector fields and flow visualizations, carried out by injecting methylene blue dye and by the laser induced fluorescence (LIF) technique, are analysed to characterize the effect of R on the formation and evolution of large-scale vortices. It is shown that two distinct flow regimes are established depending on R, with R ≃ 3 being a transitional value. At low R, the longitudinal vorticity dynamics is dominated by the so-called wake-like structures which are shown to be strictly connected to the streamwise counter-rotating vortices (CRVP) which drive the destabilization of the jet flow. On the other hand, at large R, vortices with positive and negative vorticity are coupled together. The establishment of these different behaviours is interpreted physically as an effect of the jet Reynolds number which plays an essential role on the destabilization mechanisms which lead to the formation of the jet shear-layer structures. In any case, the onset of instability is driven by mechanisms which are different from those characteristic of free jets.
Inhibition of Polymicrobial Biofilms of Candida albicans–Staphylococcus aureus/Streptococcus mutans by Fucoidan–Gold Nanoparticles

The polymicrobial proliferation and development of complex biofilm morphologies by bacterial and fungal pathogens in the host are some of the key factors contributing to the failure of antimicrobial treatments. The polymicrobial interaction of Candida albicans and some bacterial species has been extensively studied in both in vitro and in vivo model systems. Alternative strategies for disrupting polymicrobial interaction and biofilm formation are constantly needed. Among several alternative strategies, the use of nanoparticles synthesized using a natural product in the treatment of microbial infection has been considered a promising approach. The current study aimed to synthesize gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using a natural product, fucoidan, and to test their efficacy against mono and duo combinations of fungal (Candida albicans) and bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus/Streptococcus mutans) biofilms. Several methods were used to characterize and study Fu–AuNPs, including UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, FTIR, FE-TEM, EDS, DLS, zeta potential, and XRD. The concentration-dependent inhibition of early-stage biofilms and the eradication of mature biofilms of single species of C. albicans, S. aureus, and S. mutans have been observed. Early biofilms of a dual-species combination of C. albicans and S. aureus/S. mutans were also suppressed at an increasing concentration of Fu–AuNPs. Furthermore, Fu–AuNPs significantly eradicated the established mature biofilm of mixed species. The treatment method proposed in this study, which involves the use of marine-bioinspired nanoparticles, is a promising and biocompatible agent for preventing the growth of polymicrobial biofilms of bacterial and fungal pathogens.
Bank resolutions through M&As: The case of Ghana’s purchase and assumption agreement

Abstract In this article, we examine the possible effects of acquisition through a Purchase and assumption agreement (P&A) as a resolution approach by the central bank of Ghana on the performance of the acquiring bank post-acquisition. By assessing the execution of the first P&A agreement, we contribute to the dearth of literature on the impact of M&As on bank performance in a developing context. We use secondary data from the Ghana Stock Exchange and the acquirer’s financial reports from 2015 to 2019 to assess the likely performance changes. We employ event study methodology and ratio analysis to determine the impact. We observe that while depositor funds were saved and the acquirer succeeded in widening their asset base through the acquisition, their efficiency levels during the assessed period did not improve. Our findings help explain the effects of such M&As through P&As on bank performance to assist investors and management in decision-making. It further accentuates the importance of adequate preparations before embarking on any sort of P&A agreement.
Experience and Satisfaction with a Family-Based Physical Activity Intervention Using Activity Trackers and Apps: A Qualitative Study

Wearable activity trackers and smartphone apps have been shown to increase physical activity in children and adults. However, interventions using activity trackers and apps have rarely been tested in whole families. This study examined the experience and satisfaction with an activity tracker and app intervention (Step it Up Family) to increase physical activity in whole families. Telephone interviews were conducted with Queensland-based families (n = 19) who participated in the Step it Up Family intervention (N = 40, single-arm, pre/post feasibility study) in 2017/2018. Using commercial activity trackers combined with apps, the intervention included an introductory session, individual and family-level goal setting, self-monitoring, family step challenges, and weekly motivational text messages. Qualitative content analysis was conducted to identify themes, categories and sub-categories. In summary, parents reported that children were engaged with the activity tracker and app features to reach their daily step goals. Some technical difficulties were experienced with app navigation, syncing of activity tracker data, and tracker band discomfort. Although families liked that the weekly text messages reminded them to be active, they did not find them very motivating. Using text messages for physical activity motivation in families requires further testing. Overall, the intervention was well-received by families for increasing physical activity motivation.
Gymnodinium catenatum Paralytic Shellfish Toxin Production and Photobiological Responses under Marine Heat Waves

Marine heatwaves (MHWs) have doubled in frequency since the 1980s and are projected to be exacerbated during this century. MHWs have been shown to trigger harmful algal blooms (HABs), with severe consequences to marine life and human populations. Within this context, this study aims to understand, for the first time, how MHWs impact key biological and toxicological parameters of the paralytic shellfish toxin (PST) producer Gymnodinium catenatum, a dinoflagellate inhabiting temperate and tropical coastal waters. Two MHW were simulated—category I (i.e., peak: 19.9 °C) and category IV (i.e., peak: 24.1 °C)—relative to the estimated baseline in the western coast of Portugal (18.5 °C). No significant changes in abundance, size, and photosynthetic efficiency were observed among treatments. On the other hand, chain-formation was significantly reduced under category IV MHW, as was PSP toxicity and production of some PST compounds. Overall, this suggests that G. catenatum may have a high tolerance to MHWs. Nevertheless, some sublethal effects may have occurred since chain-formation was affected, suggesting that these growth conditions may be sub-optimal for this population. Our study suggests that the increase in frequency, intensity, and duration of MHWs may lead to reduced severity of G. catenatum blooms.
Does SME’s financing decisions follow pecking order pattern? The role of financial literacy, risk preference, and home bias in SME financing decisions

Abstract This paper aims to explore the role of financial literacy, risk preference, and home bias in Minangkabau ethnic SME financing decisions, and whether their financing pattern follow the pecking order theory. The theoretical framework model was developed to determine the impact of financial literacy, risk preference, and home bias on the financing decisions of SMEs. The study applied the SEM-PLS method in testing the model. Data collection was carried out through online and offline survey techniques with a sample of 623 SMEs. The results reveal that home bias and risk preference have a negative direct effect on financing decision. Home bias also has a direct positive influence on risk preference. Financial literacy can minimize home bias from negative to positive toward financing decision. However, financial literacy does not have a direct effect on the financing decisions and does not have a significant direct influence on risk preference. Most SMEs have a low level of financial literacy, a high tendency for home bias and a high-risk preference. Financial literacy has strong positive moderation effect on the influence of home bias toward financing decision. Home bias make SME financing decision does not follow pecking order pattern. As SMEs financial literacy level is still very low, thus it is important for financial institutions to educate SMEs by providing several trainings about financial matters. The findings suggest to improve the financial literacy of SMEs informal association groups in order to help them reducing their home bias tendency. This study seeks to explore the pecking order pattern in financing decisions of SMEs.
Blood Pressure Control and Prescription Pattern of Antihypertensive Drugs in Adherence to the 2020 International Society of Hypertension (ISH) Global Hypertension Practice Guidelines in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study

Background Hypertension is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and death. Appropriate treatment of hypertension is necessary to reduce mortality. A prescription-based study is one of the most influential and helpful methods to examine physicians’ irrational prescribing practices. This study was designed to investigate the antihypertensive prescription of physicians and their adherence to the treatment guidelines, as well as the blood pressure (BP) control rate in a general hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted between February 2020 and June 2021 in an outpatient department. Patients diagnosed with hypertension as per the 2020 International Society of Hypertension guidelines and those who received antihypertensive drugs were included. Study data included prescriptions, patient’s age, duration of hypertension, comorbidities, BP, drug therapy type, and antihypertensive class. Results Overall, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers (67.1%) were the most prescribed agents, followed by dihydropyridine-calcium channel blockers (62.6%), diuretics (26.1%), and β-blockers (10.1%). Comorbid and stage 2 hypertensive patients mainly received combination therapy (51.6%) rather than monotherapy (48.4%). The study revealed an 83.5% prescription adherence to the treatment guidelines. However, non-adherence was encountered in monotherapy, polytherapy, and elderly-treated patient groups. A 66.4% (at target BP in all cases <140/90 mmHg) and 39.3% (at target BP in comorbid patients <130/80 mmHg) rate of BP control was observed. Furthermore, the rate of BP control was significantly associated with prescription adherence (χ2 = 71.316; p < 0.001). Conclusions The degree of prescription adherence and rate of BP control were found to be compatible with other published hypertension studies. However, considerable scope exists for improvement in rational drug utilization and rate of BP control, particularly in high-risk patients. Therefore, treatment guidelines must be followed by clinicians to achieve BP goals and reduce cardiovascular events among the Saudi population.
“I only wanted one thing and that was to be who I am now”: Being a trans young adult and (re)negotiating vocational identity

Developing vocational identity as a young adult is a complex feat and may be even more so for transgender people, who have to navigate their professional selves in a largely cisgender and heteronormative world that minoritizes them. This qualitative study explores how transgender youths develop a vocational identity. Through 10 in-depth interviews in the Netherlands and Belgium, we found that participants had to negotiate favoring education (at the expense of gender transition) or sensemaking their gender identity (at the expense of schooling), while seeking to avoid discrimination. In addi-tion, we observed that transitioning was also an enabling process, facilitating the development of trans young adults' vocational identity. We also found that trans young adults see the (un)attainability of career paths related to anticipated stigmatization and other expectations related to their trans identities. In particular, they mentioned occupations where hegemonic masculinity and gender binarism are praised, while those involving interaction with children and teenagers are not attainable. Organizations celebrating their trans identity and career paths in which the living conditions of other minoritized people are improved were perceived as attainable and desirable. The insights presented here show that even in countries that are considered “progressive” in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, the vocational identity
The clinical outcomes of gut-brain axis (GBA) microbiota influence on psychiatric disorders

The gut microbiome plays an important role in the health of the body. The study of its effect on mental problems has become the main topic of this study. As a matter of fact, every change in the gut microbiota composition can influence on mood and anxiety and vice versa. So, considering this “microbiota-gut-brain” axis (GBA) is so important. In this narrative review, the most recent reproduced information on GBA roles in neuropsychiatric disorders, and clinical significance have been considered. The gut microbial population is formed from birth and transforms from an immature state to the postnatal period into a more intricate and diverse adult ecosystem. In this review, we had some findings that GBA implicated in some psychiatric problems which can be a dysregulation consequence. In addition, some bacteria have been implicated in causing mental disorders in humans such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychiatric disorders, stress disorders, schizophrenia and, autism. The absence of balance in GBA natural state can cause several negative consequences on host health which leads to neurological problems. Possibly, findings were delineating an interesting new etiological pathway for future exploration.
Analysis of Microwave Cavities Using LTD-FD Method

In this paper, improved three dimensional long transmission line-frequency domain (LTL-FD) circuits are used to determine cutoff wavenumbers of microwave resonators. The II-form of long transmission line representation [1] is used to construct the model. Consequently, treatment of boundaries and interfaces between different media is shown to be a simple procedure. The resonance frequencies of the resulting circuits are the required cutoff frequencies of the resonator. The problem is reduced to an eigenvalue problem, which gives the required solution. The models ensure the satisfaction of field divergence equations and, so, results are free from spurious modes. Results for homogeneous cavities and partially dielectric-filled cavities are given and are compared with available analytical solutions as well as those given by other methods.
The X-Ray Spectral Evolution of Classical Nova V1974 Cygni 1992: A Reanalysis of the ROSAT Data

We present a spectral analysis of the archival X-ray data of classical Nova V1974 Cygni 1992 (Nova Cygni 1992) obtained by the ROSAT Position Sensitive Proportional Counter (PSPC). The X-ray spectrum is fitted with a two-component model. The first component is a white dwarf atmosphere emission model developed for the remnants of classical novae near the Eddington luminosity. The model is used to fit the soft X-ray data in the ~0.1-1.0 keV range, where the bulk of emission is below 0.7 keV. The second component is a Raymond-Smith model of thermal plasma applied to the hard X-ray emission above ~1.0 keV. The postoutburst X-ray spectrum of the remnant white dwarf is examined in the context of evolution on the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram using an O-Ne- and a C-O-enhanced atmosphere emission model. A constant bolometric luminosity evolution is detected with increasing effective temperature and decreasing photospheric radius using the O-Ne-enhanced model. The unabsorbed soft X-ray flux for the constant bolometric luminosity phase is found to be in the range (1.7-2.2) × 10-7 ergs s-1 cm-2. A peak effective temperature of 51 eV (5.9 ×105 K) is detected 511 days after outburst. We also present the spectral development of the hard X-ray component. It is found to evolve independently of the soft one. The maximum of the hard X-ray emission is reached at ~150 days after outburst with an unabsorbed flux of ~2.0 × 10-11 ergs s-1 cm-2 corresponding to a luminosity of (0.8-2.0) × 1034 ergs s-1 at a 2-3 kpc source distance. The time evolution of the hard X-ray flux and the plasma temperatures decreasing from 10 keV to 1 keV suggest emission from shock-heated gas as the origin of the hard X-ray component.
Stability analysis for linear time‐varying systems using bicoprime factorization

This paper presents a bicoprime factorization (BCF) approach to deal with various stability problems for linear discrete time‐varying (LTV) systems within the framework of nest algebra. Based on the bicoprime factorization, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for (strongly) simultaneous stabilization of three systems, which generalize similar results for systems by coprime factorization (CF). Finally, when the bicoprime factorization for the plant and controller has additive perturbations, we derive sufficient conditions using the norm inequality for robust stability of the system.
The theory of transfinite recursion

During recent years there has been growing interest in logical calculi with infinitely long expressions (see e.g. [2; 4; 5]). However, all results obtained so far, many of them very remarkable, are semantic in character. The reason is that, while the syntax of the "classical" calculi could be "Gödelized" and then studied with the aid of the theory of recursive functions, no such procedure has so far been devised for the infinitistic calculi. To do this, one should possess transfinite analogues of the theory of recursive functions and of arithmetization. In the investigations reported here, such analogues are constructed and applied to infinitistic calculi. Let (*)a be an arbitrary, but fixed, regular initial ordinal. By ordinals we shall mean ordinals <coa, by a sequence—a well ordered sequence similar to an ordinal, by the length of a sequence—its order type, and by a function—a function whose (single) argument ranges over the set of all sequences (of a fixed length) of ordinals and whose values are ordinals.
On the accuracy of the UTD for the scattering by a cylinder

The UTD formulation for the scattering by a cylinder is valid for antennas that are removed from the cylinder surface. The usual guideline is that reliable results can be obtained for antennas that are about /spl lambda//4 or more away from the surface. By exploring a few cases, we show that /spl lambda//4 is unnecessarily large for the lit region and sometimes too small for the shadow region. In addition, we find that with a simple heuristic modification to the UTD, heights as small as /spl lambda//20 can be accommodated, with an accuracy that is sufficient for most engineering applications. >
Diagnostic Study of a Wavenumber-2 Stratospheric Sudden Warming in a Transformed Eulerian-Mean Formalism

Abstract The intense wavenumber-2 stratospheric warming of February 1979 is analyzed in a transformed Eulerian-mean formalism, and compared with diagnostics generated by the model warming of Dunkerton et al. (1981). Significant differences in the evolution of the zonal mean flow are found. The corresponding differences in wave, mean-flow interaction are examined by studying planetary wave activity in the troposphere and stratosphere, as measured by the Eliassen-Palm flux and its divergence. It is found that in the stratosphere, the direction of this flux changes several times during the warming. Zonal flow deceleration is most intense when the midlatitude stratospheric flux has positive poleward and upward components. Conversely, deceleration is smallest when the flux is directed equatorward. Some mechanisms that may account for this switching are discussed. However, unlike the model, the high-latitude zonal flow reversal does not arise from nonlinear critical layer interaction with the waves.
Hydrogen Balmer series measurements and determination of Rydberg's constant using two different spectrometers

This paper investigates the use of two different methods, the optical and the computer-aided diffraction-grating spectrometer, to measure the wavelength of visible lines of Balmer series from the hydrogen atomic spectrum and estimate the value of Rydberg's constant. Analysis and interpretation of data showed that both methods, despite their difference in terms of the type of equipment used, displayed good performance in terms of precision of measurements of wavelengths of spectral lines. A comparison was carried out between the experimental value of Rydberg's constant obtained with both methods and the accepted value. The results of Rydberg's constant obtained with both the optical and computer-aided spectrometers were 1.099 28 × 10−7 m−1 and 1.095 13 × 10−7 m−1 with an error difference of 0.17% and 0.20% compared to the accepted value 1.097 373 × 10−7 m−1, respectively.
Dynamic soil–structure interaction analysis of layered unbounded media via a coupled finite element/boundary element/scaled boundary finite element model

In this paper, a coupled model based on finite element method (FEM), boundary element method (BEM) and scaled boundary FEM (SBFEM) (also referred to as the consistent infinitesimal finite element cell method) for dynamic response of 2D structures resting on layered soil media is presented. The SBFEM proposed by Wolf and Song (Finite‐element Modelling of Unbounded Media. Wiley: England, 1996) and BEM are used for modelling the dynamic response of the unbounded media (far‐field). The standard FEM is used for modelling the finite region (near‐field) and the structure.