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Validation of the Arabic Version of the Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire
No full textInternational audienceIntroduction: Fibromyalgia is a prevalent rheumatological condition that is marked by pervasive and widespread body discomfort. The diagnosis of Fibromyalgia can be challenging. For this reason, the American College of Rheumatology developed a scoring system, the Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire (FSQ). To address the lack of validated scales in the Arabic language for assessing fibromyalgia, this study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Arabic-language version of the FSQ in two Arabicspeaking populations (Lebanon and Palestine). Methods: Our study followed cross-sectional design. It was conducted from October 2024 to January 2025, within a period of five months, enrolling Lebanese and Palestinian adults. The questionnaire included sociodemographic questions and scales including the Widespread Pain Index (WPI), Symptom Severity Scale (SSS), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Results: In total, 1148 participants participated in this study, with a mean age of 29.11 +/- 12.50 years and 66.90% females. Among them, 58 (5.05%) were identified as having a possible diagnosis of fibromyalgia. The fit indices of the FSQ and SSS scales were acceptable after adding correlations between items. Internal reliability was adequate for the total scale in the total sample, in Lebanese and Palestinian samples for both scales. Invariance was shown at the metric and scalar levels in terms of genders and countries for both scales. A significantly higher mean LOG WPI and LOG SSS was found in females compared to males. No significant difference was found between Lebanese and Palestinian participants in terms of WPI; however, Lebanese scored higher SSS scores compared to Palestinians. Higher WPI and SSS scores were significantly associated with higher anxiety, depression and insomnia. Conclusion: This study supports the reliability and validity of the Arabic versions of the FSQ as robust measures for fibromyalgia. Adequate internal consistency, model fit, concurrent validity, and measurement invariance suggest that the Arabic scale is valid to utilize in both clinical and research settings
Thermal and Expansion Analysis of the Lebanese Flatbread Baking Process Using a High-Temperature Tunnel Oven
No full textInternational audienceThis study investigates the thermal dynamics and material behavior involved in the baking process for Lebanese flatbread, focusing on the heat transfer mechanisms, water loss, and dough expansion under high-temperature conditions. Despite previous studies on flatbread baking using impingement or conventional ovens, this work presents the first experimental investigation of the traditional Lebanese flatbread baking process under realistic industrial conditions, specifically using a high-temperature tunnel oven with direct flame heating, extremely short baking times (~10–12 s), and peak temperatures reaching ~650 °C, which are essential to achieving the characteristic pocket formation and texture of Lebanese bread. This experimental study characterizes the baking kinetics of traditional Lebanese flatbread, recording mass loss pre- and post-baking, thermal profiles, and dough expansion through real-time temperature measurements and video recordings, providing insights into the dough’s thermal response and expansion behavior under high-temperature conditions. A custom-designed instrumented oven with a steel conveyor and a direct flame burner was employed. The dough, prepared following a traditional recipe, was analyzed during the baking process using K-type thermocouples and visual monitoring. Results revealed that Lebanese bread undergoes significant water loss due to high baking temperatures (~650 °C), leading to rapid crust formation and pocket development. Empirical equations modeling the relationship between baking time, temperature, and expansion were developed with high predictive accuracy. Additionally, an energy analysis revealed that the total energy required to bake Lebanese bread is approximately 667 kJ/kg, with an overall thermal efficiency of only 21%, dropping to 16% when preheating is included. According to previous CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations, most heat loss in similar tunnel ovens occurs via the chimney (50%) and oven walls (29%). These findings contribute to understanding the broader thermophysical principles that can be applied to the development of more efficient baking processes for various types of bread. The empirical models developed in this study can be applied to automating and refining the industrial production of Lebanese flatbread, ensuring consistent product quality across different baking environments. Future studies will extend this work to alternative oven designs and dough formulations
The Role of AI in Advancing Biotechnology: Current Applications & 58 Free AI tools & Future Trends & Implications for Global Health Equity
No full textInternational audienceIn the field of biotechnology, the tremendous thrust that AI has unleashed has expedited various aspects such as drug discovery, genomic analysis, optimization of bioprocesses, and agriculture and marine biotechnology. This paper analyzes the state of art of AI applications in biotechnology at present, the future trends, and its possibility to help rapprochement between lower-income and high-income countries. Through the combination of recent literature and case studies, this work points out the ability of AI to fast-track biotechnological innovations while solving essential global issues like health equity. Yet, it also weighs in the danger that AI may further these inequalities unless it is implemented with inclusion and representation. Based on AI in biotechnology, this research offers a multidisciplinary view that advocates solutions tailored at the local level, the building of functional capacities, and the enactment of equitable policies that guarantee the benefits of AI are benefited by all countries. Subsequently, a panoramic review of 58 free-of-charge AI tools and platforms is offered, demonstrating the size and depth of AI impact on the biotechnology arenas and hence is a good resource for researchers, trainers, and policymakers for whom they intend to understand and harness these tools, that are open-source. Although this work is a review, it provides a structured, data-informed synthesis—including a curated list of 58 freely accessible AI tools—intended as a practical resource to support reproducibility, translational research, and strategic integration of AI in experimental biotechnology workflows
Retreatment of Two Bioceramic Sealers Included Two Different Percentages of Calcium Silicate Using Two Endodontic File Systems: An In Vitro Study
No full textInternational audienceObjectives Calcium silicate materials are widely used in endodontic treatment. Different calcium silicate percentages can be included in bioceramic sealers. The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of the calcium silicate percentages on mineral deposition into dentinal tubules at 7 days, 1 month, and 4 months of aging, as well as the effect of calcium silicate percentages on the quality of retreatment using two endodontic retreatment systems. Materials and Methods Single rooted premolars were used in the present study. After the shaping and irrigation steps, the obturation was performed using high (Ceraseal "CRS") and low (AH Plus Bioceramic "AHB") calcium silicate percentage sealers. ReTreaty (RT) and ProTaper Universal Retreatment (PUR) were used to perform the retreatment process. The time required to achieve the apex was recorded. A digital microscope and a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) were used to evaluate the remaining materials after the retreatment procedure. Scanning electron microscope was used to investigate the presence of mineral deposition into dentinal tubules and the change in mineral morphology at 7 days, 1 month, and 4 months. The data was statistically analyzed using two-way analysis of variance and t-test. Results Both materials (CRS and AHB) demonstrated different mineral depositions onto their surfaces after 24 hours, 1 month, and 4 months, and showed mineral depositions into dentinal tubules at 4 months. RT was faster in achieving the apex for CRS group compared to PUR (p < 0.001), while no difference was found between both systems among the AHB groups. Both retreatment systems were quicker to achieve the apex in AHB compared to the CRS group (RT p ¼ 0.035 and PUR p < 0.001). CBCT demonstrated a more precise measurement compared to the digital microscope in which the instrument and the material factors influence the removal ability at the coronal and middle thirds (p<0.05). No significant difference was found at the apical third.Conclusion The retreatment of AHB was easier and faster than CRS. RT demonstrated higher removal ability and faster time compared to PUR. The apical third proved to be a difficult area to achieve an optimal cleaning. Calcium silicate percentages included in bioceramic sealers could play an important role in root canal retreatment. Higher percentages of calcium silicate can decrease the capacity of the retreatment process and increase the needed time to remove the materials
Examination of the psychometric properties of Arabic version of the Body Vigilance Scale
No full textLS7International audienceIntroduction The Body Vigilance Scale (BVS) was designed and validated as a short and concise measure to assess attentional focus on bodily sensations and related processes. The BVS is available in the English language, but no Arabic version have been developed, and no validation of the scale exists in Lebanon. The current study aimed to determine the reliability, validity and factor structure of the Arabic version of the Body Vigilance Scale. Methods This study has a cross-sectional design. It was conducted from October 2 to November 20, 2024, enrolling Lebanese adults. The study was carried out in the Arabic language and included the BVS, the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Insomnia Severity Index and the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory. Results In total, 641 participants participated in this study, with a mean age of 35.11 ± 12.67 years and 70.5% females. Internal reliability of BVS was adequate (ω = .87/ α = .86). Invariance was shown at the metric and scalar levels in terms of genders. A significantly higher mean BVS score was found in females compared to males. Higher depression (r = 0.26; p < 0.001), anxiety (r = 0.29; p < 0.001), insomnia (r = 0.29; p < 0.001) and mindfulness (r = 0.27; p < 0.001) correlated significantly with higher body vigilance scores. Conclusion The Arabic version of the BVS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing somatic attention in Arabic-speaking populations. Its psychometric robustness, demonstrated measurement invariance across genders, and associations with psychological distress measures underscore its utility in both clinical and research settings
Unity in Diversity: Revolutionising SMEs Through Inclusive Corporate Boards
No full textInternational audienceThis study investigates the implications of gender diversity within top management teams on firm performance, risk, and executive pay, concentrating on a sample of 105 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lebanon over a three-year period (2014-2016). Adopting a quantitative methodology, data was collected through closed-ended surveys utilising nominal, interval, and ratio scales. Analysis via linear regression revealed that while gender diversity on the board of directors showed no discernible influence on the examined variables, a heightened presence of women in managerial roles positively affected the firm’s return on investment and narrowed the wage disparity. These findings challenge the prevailing view in the Lebanese context, which largely perceives women as primarily homemakers, and highlight the tangible benefits of gender diversity for SMEs’ growth and evolution. Notably, the research offers a unique perspective by focusing on Lebanon, a nation grappling with the integration of gender diversity practices in boardrooms amid cultural and religious constraints
Upgrading Soil Beneath Existing Shallow Foundations Using Geogrid: A Numerical Study
No full textInternational audienceUpgrading Soil Beneath Existing Shallow Foundations Using Geogrid: A Numerical Stud
AI and Cultural Adaptation: Leveraging MENA Values in Business
No full textInternational audienceThis chapter addresses how artificial intelligence is being tailored to fit the unique cultural fabric of the MENA region and to enhance business practices within the region. It explores the nuances of integrating AI into a business environment that is deeply rooted in tradition and values. The chapter discusses the development of AI systems that are culturally aware, and capable of understanding and respecting linguistic subtleties, social norms, and religious considerations prevalent in Middle Eastern societies. The narrative examines case studies where businesses have successfully implemented AI to cater to local preferences, through culturally sensitive marketing campaigns and customer service bots that communicate effectively in local dialects. It also delves into the role of AI in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, via virtual tourism and digital archiving of historical artifacts. Additionally, the chapter contemplates the ethical dimensions of AI deployment in a region where societal values are paramount, discussing how businesses balance technological advancement with cultural integrity. It concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the potential for AI to not only align with but also enrich the cultural values in Middle Eastern business practices, fostering innovation while maintaining the region’s unique identity
Exploring Climate Change Through the Lens of Records Theory
No full textInternational audienceThe global phenomenon of climate change has become one of the most pressing challenges of our time.Amidst this complex landscape, the scientific community seeks innovative methodologies to quantify and understand the occurrence and severity of climate change. The theory of records in extreme value theory provides a promisingframework for detecting and verifying climate change. This research spans multiple geographic locations, employing a univariate scoring approach to analyze temperature and precipitation trends, and providing valuable insights into the occurrence, frequency, and intensity of extreme climate events. Our findings reveal a global warming pattern,with temperature scores declining mid-century before rising sharply, often surpassing previous levels. Precipitation scores vary across regions, with some experiencing drier conditions while others face increased rainfall. These results highlight shifting climate extremes, reinforcing the urgency of climate change analysis.Le phénomène mondial du changement climatique est devenu l'un des défis les plus urgents de notre époque. Dans ce contexte complexe, la communauté scientifique cherche des méthodologies innovantes pour quantifier et comprendre l'occurrence et la gravité du changement climatique. La théorie de records en statistique des extrêmes offre un cadre prometteur pour détecter et vérifier le changement climatique. Notre recherche couvre plusieurs lieux géographiques et utilise une approche de notation univariée pour analyser les tendances de température et de précipitations, fournissant ainsi des informations précieuses sur l'occurrence, la fréquence et l'intensité des événements climatiques extrêmes. Nos résultats révèlent un schéma de réchauffement global, avec des scores de température en baisse au milieu du siècle avant d'augmenter brusquement, dépassant souvent les niveaux précédents. Les scores de précipitations varient selon les régions, certaines connaissant des conditions plus sèches tandis que d'autres font face à une augmentation des précipitations. Ces résultats mettent en évidence des extrêmes climatiques changeants, soulignant l'urgence d'analyser le changement climatique
