bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interictal EEG spikes increase perfusion in low-grade epilepsy-associated tumors: a pediatric arterial spin labeling study
Authors: Gennari Antonio Giulio , Bicciato Giulio , Lo Biundo Santo Pietro , Kottke Raimund , Cserpan Dorottya , Tuura O’Gorman Ruth , Ramantani Georgia
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Arterial spin labeling (ASL), a noninvasive magnetic resonance (MRI) perfusion sequence, holds promise in the presurgical evaluation of pediatric lesional epilepsy patients, including those with low-grade epilepsy-associated tumors (LEATs). The interpretation of ASL-derived perfusion patterns, however, presents challenges. Our study aims to elucidate these perfusion changes in children with LEATs, exploring their correlations with clinical, electroencephalography (EEG), and anatomical MRI findings.

Material and Methods

Our cohort included 15 children with LEAT-associated focal lesional epilepsy who underwent single-delay pseudo-continuous ASL imaging; eight were imaged under sedation. We assessed perfusion images both qualitatively and quantitatively, focusing on LEAT-related perfusion changes, as indicated by the asymmetry index (AI) and regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF).

Results

ASL revealed LEAT-related perfusion changes in all but two patients: 12 LEATs were hypoperfused and one was hyperperfused relative to the contralateral brain parenchyma (CBP). LEATs showed significantly lower perfusion compared to CBP (median: 38.7 vs. 59.1 mL/100 g/min for LEAT and CBP, respectively; p value = 0.004, Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney), regardless of sedation. Notably, elevated AI and rCBF values correlated with interictal spikes on EEG (median: -0.008 and 0.84 vs -0.27 and 0.58, respectively), but not to other clinical, EEG, or MRI variables (p value = 0.036, Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney).

Conclusions

By highlighting the connection between LEAT and brain perfusion, and by correlating perfusion characteristics and epileptogenicity, our research enhanced our understanding of pediatric epilepsy associated with LEATs. Also, by proving the robustness of these findings to sedation we confirmed the importance of adding ASL to epilepsy protocols to as a valuable tool to supplement anatomical imaging.
Characterisation and calibration of multiversal methods
Authors: Cantone Giulio Giacomo , Tomaselli Venera
Published: November 2024

Multiverse Analysis is a heuristic for robust multiple models estimation where data fit many connected specifications of the same abstract model, instead of a singular or a small selection of specifications. Differently from the canonical application of multimodels, in Multiverse Analysis the probabilities of the specifications to be included in the analysis are never assumed independent of each other. Grounded in this consideration, this study provides a compact statistical characterisation of the process of elicitation of the specifications in Multiverse Analysis and conceptually adjacent methods, connecting previous insights from meta-analytical Statistics, model averaging, Network Theory, Information Theory, and Causal Inference. The calibration of the multiversal estimates is treated with references to the adoption of Bayesian Model Averaging vs. alternatives. In the applications, it is checked the theory that Bayesian Model Averaging reduces both error and uncertainty for well-specified multiversal models but amplifies errors when a collider variable is included in the multiversal model. In well-specified models, alternatives do not perform better than Uniform weighting of the estimates, so the adoption of a gold standard remains ambiguous. Normative implications for misinterpretation of Multiverse Analysis and future directions of research are discussed.
Fracture Behavior of Hardfacing Alloy Coated Over Stainless Steel under Quasi-Static and Dynamic Loads
Authors: Joseph Prince , Babu M. Nani , Albert S. K.
Published: November 2024

The fracture behavior of bi-material made of Ni-Cr-B-Si hardfacing alloy deposited over SS316LN substrate was evaluated under quasi-static and dynamic loads. The crack growth started from notch made on the deposit side and progress toward the substrate deposit interface under both loading conditions was monitored. The displacement rate in quasi-static loading and the loading rate for dynamic loading varied and crack propagation was studied. It was observed that the crack was deflected at the interface and not penetrated to the substrate, irrespective of loading conditions. The reason for crack deflection at the interface was analyzed using the energy-based method. It is shown that the ratio of fracture toughness of the interface to that of the substrate (0.044) is lower than the ratio of energy release rate for the deflecting crack to that of the penetrating crack (0.235). Thus, this material combination satisfies the condition for crack deflection rather than penetration. The fracture toughness of the interface was estimated as ~ 68 MPa m1/2 and it falls between that of hardfacing alloy and SS316LN base metal. Optical and SEM examinations were conducted to corroborate the crack path deviations during crack growth. Results suggest that isolated cracks might be present on hardfaced coatings on critical components for which such cracks are usually not permitted. It may be allowed in preference to repair of these cracks, which is difficult and significantly increases the risk of additional cracks forming on the deposits because of the high susceptibility of the hardfacing alloy to cracking.
The Impact of the Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor—Sodium Butyrate on Complement-Mediated Synapse Loss in a Rat Model of Neonatal Hypoxia–Ischemia
Authors: Ziabska Karolina , Gewartowska Magdalena , Frontczak-Baniewicz Malgorzata , Sypecka Joanna , Ziemka-Nalecz Malgorzata
Published: November 2024

Perinatal asphyxia is one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in newborns. One of the key pathogenic factors in hypoxic-ischemic (HI) brain injury is the inflammatory reaction including complement system activation. Over-activated complement stimulates cells to release inflammatory molecules and is involved in the post-ischemic degradation of synaptic connections. On the other hand, complement is also involved in regenerative processes. The histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi)—sodium butyrate (SB)—provides reduction of inflammation by decreasing the expression of the proinflammatory factors. The main purpose of this study was to examine the effect of SB treatment on complement activation and synapse elimination after HI. Neonatal HI was induced in Wistar rats pups by unilateral ligation of the common carotid artery followed by 60-min hypoxia (7.6% O2). SB (300 mg/kg) was administered on a 5-day regimen. Our study has shown decreased levels of synapsin I, synaptophysin, and PSD-95 in the hypoxic-ischemic hemisphere, indicating synaptic loss after neonatal HI. Transmission electron microscopy revealed injury of the synaptic structures in the brain after HI. SB treatment increased the level of the synaptic proteins, improved tissue ultrastructure, and reduced degradation of the synapses. Neonatal HI induced mRNA expression of the complement C1q, C3, C5, and C9, and their receptors C3aR and C5aR. The effect of SB was different depending on the time after induction of hypoxic-ischemic damage. Our study demonstrated that neuroprotective effect of SB may be related to the modulation of complement activity after HI brain injury.
Fasten UV-Resistant Cotton Textiles by Modification with Mixed Metal–Ce–MOF
Authors: Abdelhameed Reda M. , El-Shahat Mahmoud , Ivanova Elena , Mihaylov Mihail , Hadjiivanov Konstantin , Emam Hossam E.
Published: November 2024

Nowadays, manufacturing of ultraviolet (UV) protective textiles is quite interesting for the outdoor workers to protect their bodies from harmful radiation. Herein, for the first time, durable UV-protective cotton textiles were produced by modification with the mixed metal–Ce organic framework. Cotton was first interacted with 1,2,4-tricarboxybenzene-2,4-anhydride through benzylation reaction. The benzylated cotton (BTC–C = O@Cotton) was then reacted with two metal salts including Cerium salt to obtain Ce–M–BTC–C = O@Cotton. The estimated contents of Ce and the mixed metal within Ce–M–BTC–C = O@Cotton were 3.3% and 0.4%, respectively. The color of cotton was turned to bluish-green color, greenish-yellow color and reddish color after incorporation with Ce–Cu–BTC, Ce–Ni–BTC and Ce–Co–BTC, respectively. The all-modified fabrics exhibited UV-blocking character from good to excellent, depending on the inserted mixed metal. The measured UV-protection factor (UPF) was 34.7 (very good) for Ce–Cu–BTC–C = O@Cotton, 43.1 (excellent) for Ce–Ni–BTC–C = O@Cotton, 26.4 (good) for Ce–Zn–BTC–C = O@Cotton, and 33.3 (very good) for Ce–Co–BTC–C = O@Cotton. After 5 washing cycles, Ce–Ni–BTC–C = O@Cotton and Ce–Co–BTC–C = O@Cotton showed good UV protection. The mechanical properties of cotton textiles were not significantly affected after modification with Ce–M–BTC.
A ring-shaped gas sign: a case of the accidental ingestion of a press-through package
Authors: Kubota Dai , Tsuji Yosuke , Hayakawa Yoku , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: November 2024

This case report presents a common but instructive clinical scenario of accidental ingestion of a press-through package. Despite an initial negative chest X-ray and mild symptoms, the diagnosis was confirmed with additional computed tomography. The patient was eventually went through the successful endoscopic removal of the press-through package. Furthermore, a retrospective re-reviewing of the X-ray revealed a faint ring-shaped gas sign, characteristic of press-through package ingestion. This case underscores the intractableness to diagnosis of accidental ingestion of press-through package by only X-rays in real time and the potential role of computed tomography in ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.
Post-traumatic Distress in Adults with Congenital Heart Disease: Protective Factors and Clinical Implications
Authors: Freiberger Annika , Andonian-Dierks Caroline , Beckmann Jürgen , Freilinger Sebastian , Ewert Peter , Henningsen Peter , Kaemmerer Harald , Kohls Niko , Richter Cristina , Huber Maximilian
Published: November 2024

Background

Due to various reasons explored in previous studies, adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) are at risk of developing post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). The aim of this study is to explore multiple potential psychosocial protective factors in ACHD and to understand their role in different complexities of congenital heart disease (CHD) and PTSS.

Method

This study was part of the “ABS-AHF” study, where 234 ACHD were recruited from November 2021 to August 2022 at a tertiary CHD care center. Data were collected on PTSS (PDS), resilience (RS-13), sense of coherence (SOC-L9), and social support (F-SozU K-14).

Results

The mean scores were 70.55 + / − 12.31 [21–91] for resilience, 35.83 + / − 4.81 [15–60] for sense of coherence (SOC), and 4.30 + / − 0.79 [0.93–5] for social support. SOC (OR, .91; p = .024 [.84; 9.98]) and social support (OR, .48; p = .001 [.29; 7.96]) were shown to reduce the likelihood of PTSS. Low resilience (OR, 2.40, p = .0248 [1.18; 5.18]) seems to increase this likelihood.

Conclusion

Integrating parents and relatives early on seems to be an important protective resource. Parental support in childhood affects the development of SOC which is in line with social support related to lower PTSS. With regard to resilience and SOC, a brief and manageable screening option for personal resources is available to refer potentially vulnerable patients to specialized psychosocial care. Care offers should address coping styles and life with CHD. Offering multidisciplinary care, integrating the patient’s social network, and education for patients to increase resilience and SOC might provide a way to enhance psychosocial outcomes, quality of life, and adherence in ACHD.
The Limits of Our Explanation: A Case Study in Myxococcus xanthus Cooperation
Authors: Khan Saira
Published: November 2024

In this article, I demonstrate two ways in which our major theories of the evolution of cooperation may fail to capture particular social phenomena. The first shortcoming of our current major theories stems from the possibility of mischaracterizing the cooperative problem in game theory. The second shortcoming of our current major theories is the insensitivity of these explanatory models to ecological and genomic context. As a case study to illustrate these points, I will use the cooperative interaction of a species of myxobacteria called Myxococcus xanthus. M. xanthus cooperate in many areas of their life cycle—in quorum sensing, social motility, fruiting body formation, and predation. I focus in particular on predation as we have not yet discovered an adequate explanation of how they sustain cooperative predation in the face of developmental cheats. In explaining why we have not, I draw generalizable conclusions that shed light on our use of simplified models to explain real-world behaviors in a variety of organisms.
Multiple feature selection based on an optimization strategy for causal analysis of health data
Authors: Cong Ruichen , Deng Ou , Nishimura Shoji , Ogihara Atsushi , Jin Qun
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Recent advancements in information technology and wearable devices have revolutionized healthcare through health data analysis. Identifying significant relationships in complex health data enhances healthcare and public health strategies. In health analytics, causal graphs are important for investigating the relationships among health features. However, they face challenges owing to the large number of features, complexity, and computational demands. Feature selection methods are useful for addressing these challenges. In this paper, we present a framework for multiple feature selection based on an optimization strategy for causal analysis of health data.

Methods

We select multiple health features based on an optimization strategy. First, we define a Weighted Total Score (WTS) index to assess the feature importance after the combination of different feature selection methods. To explore an optimal set of weights for each method, we design a multiple feature selection algorithm integrated with the greedy algorithm. The features are then ranked according to their WTS, enabling selection of the most important ones. After that, causal graphs are constructed based on the selected features, and the statistical significance of the paths is assessed. Furthermore, evaluation experiments are conducted on an experiment dataset collected for this study and an open dataset for diabetes.

Results

The results demonstrate that our approach outperforms baseline models by reducing the number of features while improving model performance. Moreover, the statistical significance of the relationships between features uncovered through causal graphs is validated for both datasets.

Conclusion

By using the proposed framework for multiple feature selection based on an optimization strategy for causal analysis, the number of features is reduced and the causal relationships are uncovered and validated.
Flow in filopodia: re-organization and the representation of biological entities as computational objects
Authors: Leal Thiago Franco , de Moura Carlos Antônio , Kritz Maurício Vieira , Prokop Andreas
Published: November 2024

Actin is the most abundant protein in eukaryotic cells. They form filamentous polymers that are organized in different ways within the cell to perform various functions. For instance, prominent parallel bundles of F-actins mediate the formation and dynamics of filopodia that are long, finger-like protrusions of cell membrane occurring in certain cells, like growing neurons. Understanding actin organization dynamics and its regulation is a crucial problem for biologists that cannot be solved exclusively by biological methods, requiring the support of mathematical and computational modelling. In this work, grounded on a previous hypothesis of ours about the cytosol flow within filopodia, we address several modelling challenges posed by the growth of filopodia in neurons. We use alternative stochastic models and particle-centered numerical methods for transport and elongations, as well as an innovative object-oriented modelling-strategy to represent chemical transformations, polymerization, and their regulation. These modelling strategies allowed for simulating elongations 20 times longer than the typical ranges attained by commonly used filopodia diffusion models, and show that our hypothesis is feasible, acting as a proof-of-concept about the importance of considering organization as a key element in biological explanations.
Stamina and the embodiment of expertise: resources of transnational activism to counter corporate slow violence
Authors: Plüss Hannah
Published: November 2024

Analyses from political ecology and other disciplines show on the one hand how projects of hydroelectric power production can lead to situations of corporate slow violence. On the other hand, contributions of the same disciplines analyse how transnational activism can change shape, course, and power structures in environmental conflicts. My contribution brings together these debates, which have so far been conducted separately, by analysing the conflict around a run-of-the-river hydroelectric power plant in rural Ecuador. The power plant has been backed by a legitimising discourse of contributing to sustainable non-carbon-based solutions to global climate change. Despite this good image, the company ignored the national legislation and the knowledge of the local population about their river, as well as their needs, and thus involved them in a situation of corporate slow violence. Parts of the community subsequently joined with activists from the U.S. and formed an NGO to convert the physical protest-dominated resistance strategy into one of scientific and legal activism. My analysis shows how this case of corporate slow violence was confronted by these activists mobilising a variety of resources, among them two that are not taken into account in the relevant literature so far, namely the necessary time, residency, and stamina to cope with the violence, and the use of the embodiment of expertise of the white colonialist other as a strategic tool to change power structures in the region.
Family structure, gender, and subjective well-being: effect of children before and after COVID-19 in Japan
Authors: Yamamura Eiji , Ohtake Fumio
Published: November 2024

Grandparents were anticipated to participate in grand-rearing. The COVID-19 pandemic had detached grandparents from rearing grandchildren. The research questions of this study were as follows: How does the change in family relations impact the Subjective well-being (SWB) of grandparents and parents? Using independently collected individual-level panel data over 2016–2023, we examined how family structure influenced SWB before and after COVID-19. We focused on the effects of children, grandchildren, and their gender on grandparents and parents. We found that compared with the happiness level before COVID-19, (1) granddaughters increased their grandmothers’ SWB after COVID-19, (2) both daughters and sons reduced their fathers’ SWB after COVID-19, whereas neither daughters nor sons changed their mothers’ SWB, and (3) the negative effect of sons reduced substantially if their fathers had younger brothers. Learning from interactions with younger brothers in childhood, fathers could avoid the deterioration of relationships with their sons, even when unexpected events possibly changed the lifestyle of the family and their relationship.
Progress in High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation for Fertility Preservation Therapy of Uterine Fibroids and Adenomyosis
Authors: Zhang Guorui , Li Lei , Sun Mengyuan , Yu Xin
Published: November 2024

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an effective and safe non-invasive treatment method, widely used in the treatment of uterine fibroids and adenomyosis in the field of gynecology. The side effects in HIFU is low in incidence and mild. HIFU can significantly alleviate the symptoms of patients, reduce lesion volumes, improve quality of life, and has good cost-effectiveness. HIFU can accurately ablate the uterine fibroids and adenomyosis lesions, without destroying normal myometrium and endometrium, and thus HIFU is a promising alternative to myomectomy in uterine fibroids patients with fertility desire. Several studies have shown that in terms of ovarian endocrine function protection, HIFU treatment is superior to uterine artery embolization, and similar to myomectomy. Existing limited researches show that patients with uterine fibroids have a favorable pregnancy rate and live birth rate, as well as a lower natural abortion rate after HIFU treatment. Pregnancy rate after HIFU treatment for uterine fibroids is not lower than myomectomy, and higher than uterine artery embolization. HIFU may have significant advantages in shortening pregnancy interval compared with myomectomy. However, the proportion of cesarean section delivery after HIFU treatment is relatively high, and gestational uterine rupture after HIFU treatment exist in literature. Higher quality clinical data is needed to confirm the pregnancy outcomes and safety after HIFU treatment in future.
Astaxanthin has a beneficial influence on pain-related symptoms and opioid-induced hyperalgesia in mice with diabetic neuropathy-evidence from behavioral studies
Authors: Ciapała Katarzyna , Pawlik Katarzyna , Ciechanowska Agata , Makuch Wioletta , Mika Joanna
Published: November 2024

Background

The treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy is still a clinical problem. The aim of this study was to determine whether astaxanthin, a substance that inhibits mitogen-activated protein kinases, activates nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and influences N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, affects nociceptive transmission in mice with diabetic neuropathy.

Methods

The studies were performed on streptozotocin-induced mouse diabetic neuropathic pain model. Single intrathecal and intraperitoneal administrations of astaxanthin at various doses were conducted in both males and females. Additionally, repeated twice-daily treatment with astaxanthin (25 mg/kg) and morphine (30 mg/kg) were performed. Hypersensitivity was evaluated with von Frey and cold plate tests.

Results

This behavioral study provides the first evidence that in a mouse model of diabetic neuropathy, single injections of astaxanthin similarly reduce tactile and thermal hypersensitivity in both male and female mice, regardless of the route of administration. Moreover, repeated administration of astaxanthin slightly delays the development of morphine tolerance and significantly suppresses the occurrence of opioid-induced hyperalgesia, although it does not affect blood glucose levels, body weight, or motor coordination. Surprisingly, astaxanthin administered repeatedly produces a better analgesic effect when administered alone than in combination with morphine, and its potency becomes even more pronounced over time.

Conclusions

These behavioral results provide a basis for further evaluation of the potential use of astaxanthin in the clinical treatment of diabetic neuropathy and suggest that the multidirectional action of this substance may have positive effects on relieving neuropathic pain in diabetes.
Surface integrity and mechanical properties of small elements fabricated through LPBF and post-processed with heat treatment and abrasive machining
Authors: Radziejewska J. , Marczak M. , Maj P. , Głowacki D. , Diduszko R.
Published: November 2024

The present research analyzes the impact of heat treatment atmosphere followed by finishing surface machining of small elements of Inconel 939 fabricated through laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The analysis involved annealing in two gas mediums, solution treatment, and aging to achieve the desired microstructure and mechanical properties. The finishing surface was performed using various variants of abrasive machining. A more than fivefold reduction in the average roughness height Ra from 5.6 µm to 1.15 µm was achieved using metal balls as an abrasive, which was required for further processing. Residual stress tests have shown that due to heat and abrasive treatment, tensile stresses change into compressive ones. After printing, samples are characterized by tensile residual stresses on the surface (+ 428 MPa), while after heat treatment, compressive stresses occur (− 179 MPa). Abrasive machining with metal balls increases the value of compressive stresses to − 464 MPa. In addition, the impact of post-processing on the microstructure of Inconel 939 was discussed in terms of mechanical properties. The yield strength of 1184 MPa and elongation values of 19.3% were obtained for samples after HT in an argon atmosphere and abrasive machining with a ceramics roller. These studies provide valuable new information on the effective heat treatment and optimization of the finishing machining of Inconel 939, especially in achieving the desired surface roughness, microstructure, and mechanical properties for aerospace applications.
Analysing trends of computational urban science and data science approaches for sustainable development
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Bassill Nick P.
Published: November 2024

Urban computing with a data science approaches can play a pivotal role in understaning and analyzing the potential of these methods for strategic, short-term, and sustainable planning. The recent development in urban areas have progressed towards the data-driven smart sustainable approaches to resolve the complexities around urban areas. The urban system faces severe challenges and these are complicated to capture, predict, resolve and deliver. The current study advances an unconventional decision-support framework to integrate the complexities of science, urban sustainability theories, and data science, with a data-intensive science to incorporate grassroots initiatives for a top-down policies. This work will influence the urban data analytics to optimize the designs and solutions to enhance sustainability, efficiency, resilience, equity, and quality of life. This work emphasizes the significant trends of data-driven and model-driven decision support systems. This will help to address and create an optimal solution for multifaceted challenges of an urban setup within the analytical framework. The analytical investigations includes the research about land use prediction, environmental monitoring, transportation modelling, and social equity analysis. The fusion of urban computing, intelligence, and sustainability science is expected to resolve and contribute in shaping resilient, equitable, and future environmentally sensible eco-cities. It examines the emerging trends in the domain of computational urban science and data science approaches for sustainable development being utilized to address urban challenges including resource management, environmental impact, and social equity. The analysis of recent improvements and case studies highlights the potential of data-driven insights with computational models for promoting resilient sustainable urban environments, towards more effective and informed policy-making. Thus, this work explores the integration of computational urban science and data science methodologies to advance sustainable development.
Simplifying traffic simulation - from Euclidean distances to agent-based models
Authors: Khan Tunaggina Subrina , Pfoser Dieter , Ruan Shiyang , Züfle Andreas
Published: November 2024

Urban settings require a thorough understanding of traffic patterns to best manage traffic, be prepared for emergency scenarios and to guide future infrastructure investments. In addition to analyzing collected traffic data, traffic modeling is an important tool that often requires detailed simulations that can be computationally intensive and time-consuming. A well-known comprehensive simulation framework is MATSim. On the other hand, simpler shortest-path routing systems that compute trips on an individual basis promise faster computations. The primary focus of this study is to assess the viability of a fast shortest path routing system as a method of traffic simulation. This study compares the MATSim with the Graphhopper routing system. Key metrics include travel time accuracy, congestion levels, route similarity, vehicle miles traveled, and average travel time. By analyzing these metrics, this study shows that a shortest-path routing system can serve as an effective and expedient approximation of more resource intensive simulation frameworks. This has significant implications for authorities and planners, as it offers a quick and efficient tool for traffic management and decision-making during critical events, enhancing their ability to respond quickly and effectively to dynamic traffic conditions.
Assessment of psychometric properties of the Dari version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) among Afghans
Authors: Neyazi Ahmad , Rahimi Bilal Ahmad , Mohammadi Abdul Qadim , Neyazi Mehrab , Faizee Muhammad Ishaque , Daulati Mohammad Naeem , Razaqi Nosaibah , Afzali Habibah , Qanawezi Laila , Sarem Shararah , Said Saida
Published: November 2024

Background

Sleep helps in improving the functions of all systems of human body. Disturbance in sleep can cause immediate adverse effects on normal human physiologic functions. Main objective of this study was to explore the psychometric properties of the Dari version of the of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) among general adult population of Afghanistan.

Methods

This methodological study has been conducted during July to November 2023. Reliability and validity of PSQI were evaluated using Cronbach’s Alpha and confirmatory factor analysis, respectively. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to assess the convergent validity of the components of PSQI, comparing results with those obtained from the DASS-21 subdomains.

Results

In this cross-sectional study, 965 Afghan adults were studied during five months of duration between July and November, 2023. Mean age of the study participants was 35.2 years. The prevalence of sleep disturbance was 44.6% (430/965). Among them, 59.3% (572/965) reported experiencing subjective sleep quality disturbances less than once a week, 36.2% (349/965) had sleep latency issues less than once a week, 17.6% (170/965) had sleep duration disruption once or twice a week, while 36.3% (350/965) had daytime dysfunction less than once a week. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the seven-component scale was 0.677, indicating acceptable internal consistency. Substantial and statistically significant positive correlations were present among the component of PSQI subjective sleep quality and sleep latency, sleep duration, habitual sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, use of sleeping medication, daytime dysfunction, DASS-Depression, DASS-Anxiety, and DASS-Stress. The overall PSQI exhibited favorable fit indices, supporting the proposed single-factor structure among adult Afghan population.

Conclusion

Prevalence of sleep disturbance was very high among adult population of Afghanistan. This study provided useful information that will help policy makers (such as ministry of public health as well as international donor agencies like WHO, USAID, and UNICEF) to design a better strategy to reduce the prevalence of sleep disturbance that affects health of the Afghan community at large.
Examining psychological detachment from work, work engagement, and thought control in Japanese work at home environments
Authors: Nakamura Shizuka , Kobayashi Masanori
Published: November 2024

Because of shifting social circumstances, a growing number of businesses are implementing work at home options. Working at home enhances work-life balance but blurs the line between work and personal life, making it challenging for workers to psychologically detach from work outside of their designated hours. This blurring of boundaries between work and personal life is thought to potentially increase work engagement. Moreover, achieving psychological detachment from work and disengaging from work-related thoughts outside of working hours are thought to demand high levels of thought control ability. This study hypothesized that (1) compared to office workers, those who work at home struggle more to detach from work and exhibit higher levels of work engagement, (2) higher levels of thought control ability reduce work-related thoughts. This study employed a combination of a cross-sectional survey design and an experimental approach using a cognitive task to examine the research questions. Focusing on Japanese workers, the results confirmed that home workers face challenges in detaching from work and show higher work engagement, identifying work from home as a potential stressor and a factor that may increase work involvement. On the other hand, the study found no link between elevated thought control ability and reduced work-related thoughts during cognitive tasks.
FRET verification of crucial interaction sites in RhoA regulation mediated by RhoGDI
Authors: Li Hui , Guo Jia , Xing Yujie , Deng Linhong , Ouyang Mingxing
Published: November 2024

The small GTPase Rho family are the major factors in mediating actin cytoskeleton dynamics. Rho-specific guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitors (RhoGDIs) serve as important negative regulators by complexing with inactive Rho into the cytoplasm. However, how these two molecules interact still needs experimental verification. Based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) measurements, we would demonstrate crucial sites in RhoGDI and RhoA for this regulatory role. Cotransfection of RhoGDI markedly reduced RhoA or Cdc42 activity in airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells, while D185R-RhoGDI mutant reversed this decrease, indicating that RhoGDI Asp185 residue is essential for the molecular interaction. R68D-RhoA (mutation in the switch II region) resulted in a deficiency in RhoGDI regulation, while TV37/38NG-RhoA (in the switch I region) displayed low RhoA activity. Hence, the Arg68 site in RhoA is indispensable for regulation by RhoGDI, and Thr37Val38 site is important for maintaining RhoA activity. Additionally, microtubule but not actin cytoskeleton showed inhibitory role in RhoA activity, while the dissolution of either cytoskeleton did not change the regulatory role of RhoGDI. In checking the downstream effect, reduction of RhoA activity induced by PDGF stimulation or RhoGDI decreased cellular stress fibers. In this study, FRET visualization was applied to have experimentally demonstrated the interaction sites and crucial role of RhoGDI in regulating RhoA activity.

Graphical Abstract
Prevalence of multidrug-, extensively drug-, and pandrug-resistant bacteria in clinical isolates from King Khaled Hospital, Najran, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almakrami Mohsen , Salmen Mohammed , Aldashel Yahya Ahmad , Alyami Mesfer Hussain , Alquraishah Nasser , AlZureea Mohammad , Almakrami Jafar
Published: November 2024

Background

Saudi Arabia faces a growing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) problem, exacerbated by the widespread use of antibiotics in clinical and agricultural settings. Despite this, AMR surveillance has been limited, particularly in regions like Najran, making this study critical for informing local and national public health strategies.

Aim

This study explored the prevalence of multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant, and Pandrug-resistant bacteria in Najran, Saudi Arabia.

Study design

This is a cross-sectional study.

Methods

This study included 559 diverse clinical samples (urine, wound, etc.) collected from various departments in King Khaled Hospital, Saudi Arabia. The Phoenix BD instrument was used for complete bacterial identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed statistically.

Results

Of the 559 samples, the culture positivity rates were as follows: 51% for Escherichia coli, 22% for Staphylococcus aureus, 14% for Klebsiella pneumoniae, 6% for Acinetobacter baumannii, 6% for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and 1% for Enterococcus faecium. Majority of the cases were from male (57%), and age 50+ (59%) recorded highest cases. Participants from outpatient department (OPD) ward recorded the highest (56%) cases, while urine sample recorded the highest (49%) cases. About 84% of the isolates were multidrug‑resistance (MDR), 10% were extensively drug‑resistance (XDR), and 6% pandrug‑resistance (PDR). Our analysis showed high sensitivity to Oxazolidonone, Tetracycline, carbapenems, Lipopeptide, Aminoglycopeptide classes of antibiotics.

Conclusions

The study revealed a high prevalence of drug resistance, highlighting the critical importance of continued surveillance and research to mitigate the spread of antimicrobial resistance and preserve the effectiveness of existing therapies.
A triplanar 2D convolutional network ensemble for infra-alveolar nerve segmentation
Authors: Caselles-Ballester Vicent , Piedra Wenceslao , Casas-Roma Jordi , Burgos-Artizzu Xavier Paolo , Prados Ferran
Published: November 2024

Cone Beam Computed Tomography scan segmentation is a key step in the digital dentistry workflow. This technology is considered the gold standard for imaging in implant dentistry as well as maxillofacial and oral surgery, where extracting volumetric information is essential. However, manual segmentation is a tedious process that requires significant time and expertise. Therefore, to circumvent these issues, we have developed and present in this study a novel tool for automated nerve segmentation based on deep learning. Specifically, we build on nnU-Net’s self-configuring framework by constructing an ensemble of three 2D convolutional models that leverage information extracted from the three orthogonal planes: axial, coronal and sagittal. We tested our method by participating in the Challenge from the $$26^{th}$$

26

th

edition of the International Conference on Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Interventions, held in 2023, where we achieved a Dice Similarity Coefficient of 0.66 and a $$95^{th}$$

95

th

percentile Hausdorff distance of 8.63.
Islam, Purity, and Modernity
Authors: Jomier Augustin
Published: November 2024

From the 1930s to the 1950s, the Mzab region in the north of the Algerian Sahara, then under French rule, was shaken by controversies over the consumption and lawfulness of European goods. Historians typically analyze these debates as a form of cultural resistance to colonization or as a sign of the allegedly difficult adaptation of “Islam” to “modernity.” They single out two types of reaction: that of self-proclaimed “reformist” scholars and that of “conservatives,” caricatured as shoring up a barren tradition. Based on the case of the Mzab and on a wide range of Islamic legal documents, this article opens up a new perspective on the relations between Islam, modernity, and colonialism, demonstrating that other logics were also at work. For the Islamic scholars involved, the most important issue at stake was the purity of their community and its preservation in a context of cultural and political uncertainty. Using the tools of Islamic law, both advocates and detractors of these “innovations” shaped a particular vision of their community and its boundaries. By bringing together colonial and Islamic sources, and drawing on both colonial and Islamic studies, this article challenges a reading of the modern history of Islam based on notions such as modernity and reform, which were essentially instrumental in these debates. It also moves away from a historiography that is blind to the internal complexity of these societies, drawing attention to the multiple rationales at work in colonized North Africa.
Suicide during pregnancy as a major contributor to maternal suicide among female sex workers in eight low- and middle-income countries: A community knowledge approach investigation
Authors: Macias-Konstantopoulos Wendy L. , Willis Brian , Weerasinghe Swarna , Perttu Emily , Bennett Ian M.
Published: November 2024

Studies indicate a high burden of mental health disorders among female sex workers (FSWs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite available data on suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among FSWs, little is known about suicide deaths in this hard-to-reach population. This study aims to examine the extent to which suicide is a cause of maternal mortality among FSWs, the contexts in which suicides occur, and the methods used. From January to October 2019, the Community Knowledge Approach method for identifying cause-specific deaths in communities was employed across eight LMICs (Angola, Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), India, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa). A total of one thousand two hundred eighty FSWs provided detailed reports on two thousand one hundred twelve FSW deaths in the preceding 5 years, including 288 (13.6%) suicides, 178 (61.8%) of which were maternal. Of these maternal suicides, 57.9% occurred during pregnancy (antepartum), 20.2% within two months of delivery (puerperium), and 21.9% in the 2–12 months following delivery (postpartum). The highest proportion of suicides occurred in Nigeria, Kenya, and DRC in sub-Saharan Africa. A total of 504 children lost their mothers to suicide. Further research is needed to identify interventions for suicide risk among FSW mothers.
The Legacy of a Feminist Philosophy: An Interview with Michèle Le Dœuff
Authors: Bonnet Annabelle
Published: November 2024

Michèle Le Dœuff has devoted several decades to the exploration of the relations between women, philosophy and feminism. With this in mind I went to meet the philosopher, who generously accepted to establish a correspondence with me during my doctoral research. My questions all aimed at understanding how a woman, in the 1970s, had come to devote herself to the problematical relations between women and philosophy, and to consider such a question as a legitimate philosophical object that should be explored. It was thus a question of better knowing the feminist line that runs through her whole work, based on a displacement of this problematic from the margins to the center of the philosophical thought.
Penetration of a spherical vortex into turbulence
Authors: Eames Ian , Flór Jan-Bert
Published: November 2024

The penetration of a spherical vortex into turbulence is studied theoretically and experimentally. The characteristics of the vortex are first analysed from an integral perspective that reconciles the far-field dipolar flow with the near-field source flow. The influence of entrainment on the vortex drag force is elucidated, extending the Maxworthy (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 81, 1977, pp. 465–495) model to account for turbulent entrainment into the vortex movement and vortex penetration into an evolving turbulent field. The physics are explored numerically using a spherical vortex (initial radius

$R_0$

, speed

$U_{v0}$

), characterised by a Reynolds number

$Re_0(=2R_0U_{v0}/\nu$

, where

$\nu$

is the kinematic viscosity) of 2000, moving into decaying homogeneous turbulence (root-mean-square

$u_0$

, integral scale

$L$

) with turbulent intensity

$I_t=u_0/U_{v0}$

. When the turbulence is absent (

$I_t=0$

), a wake volume flux leads to a reduction of vortex impulse that causes the vortex to slow down. In the presence of turbulence (

$I_t> 0$

), the loss of vortical material is enhanced and the vortex speed decreases until it is comparable to the local turbulent intensity and quickly fragments, penetrating a distance that scales as

$I_t^{-1}$

. In the experimental study, a vortex (

$Re_0\sim 1490\unicode{x2013}5660$

) propagating into a statistically steady, spatially varying turbulent field (

$I_{ve}=0.02$

to 0.98). The penetration distance is observed to scale with the inverse of the turbulent intensity. Incorporating the spatially and temporally varying turbulent fields into the integral model gives a good agreement with the predicted trend of the vortex penetration distance with turbulent intensity and insight into its dependence on the structure of the turbulence.
On the interaction between a rising bubble and a settling particle
Authors: Abdal A.M. , Kahouadji L. , Shin S. , Chergui J. , Juric D. , Caulfield C.P. , Matar O.K.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the interaction between a freely rising, deformable bubble and a freely settling particle of the same size due to gravity. Initially, an in-line configuration is considered while varying the Bond, Galilei and Archimedes numbers. The study shows that as the bubble and particle approach each other, a liquid film forms between them that undergoes drainage. The formation of the liquid film leads to dissipation of kinetic energy, and for sufficiently large bubble velocities, particle flotation takes place. Increasing the Bond number causes the bubble to deform more severely, which may allow the particle to pass through the bubble as it ruptures. This work also considers an offset configuration, which shows that the bubble slides away from the particle, affecting its settling trajectory.
Internal gravity waves in flow past a bluff body under different levels of stratification
Authors: Gola D. , Nidhan S. , Sarkar S.
Published: November 2024

The flow field of a bluff body, a circular disk, that moves horizontally in a stratified environment is studied using large-eddy simulations. Five levels of stratification (body Froude numbers of

${{Fr}} = 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2$

and

$5$

) are simulated at Reynolds number of

${{Re}} = 5000$

and Prandtl number of

$Pr =1$

. A higher

${{Re}} = 50\,000$

database at

${{Fr}} = 2, 10$

and

$Pr =1$

is also examined for comparison. The wavelengths and amplitudes of steady lee waves are compared with a linear-theory analysis. Excellent agreement is found over the entire range of

${{Fr}}$

if an ‘equivalent body’ that includes the separation region is employed for the linear theory. For asymptotically large distances, the velocity amplitude varies theoretically as

${{Fr}}^{-1}$

but a correction owing to the dependence of the separation zone on

${{Fr}}$

is needed. The wake waves propagate in a narrow band of angles with the vertical, and have a wavelength that increases with increasing

${{Fr}}$

. The envelope of wake waves, demarcated using buoyancy variance, exhibits self-similar behaviour. The higher

${{Re}}$

results are consistent with the buoyancy effects exhibited at the lower

${{Re}}$

. The wake wave energy is larger at

${{Re}} = 50\,000$

. Nevertheless, independent of

${{Fr}}$

and

${{Re}}$

, the ratio of the wake wave potential energy to the wake turbulent energy increases to approximately 0.6–0.7 in the non-equilibrium stage showing their energetic importance besides suggesting universality in this statistic. There is a crossover of energetic dominance of lee waves at

${{Fr}} <2$

to wake-wave dominance at

${{Fr}} \approx 5$

.