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DESIGNED FOR LIMB LOSS: AN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE-BASED BIONIC PROSTHETIC ARM TRANSITION FROM SIMULATION TO REALITY
Full text linkLimb or organ loss of human remains challenging especially in the world of incessant reliance on touch-based screens and tasks. Thereby, patients can barely withstand and cope with the augmenting restrictions that they encounter due to this loss. Modern means and technologies, such as advanced and artificial parts reduced restrictions on patients with disabilities or a lost limb or organ. Hand prostheses, for instance, provided a powerful tool for improving the functional capabilities of human limbs, thereby improving the quality of life of the user. However, patients using prosthetic arms are still encountering numerous problems, such as, suffering from intact limb and back pain, the high cost of prosthesis systems and hardships related to the performance of the prosthesis, poor control and updating difficulties. Based on the aforementioned problems, the objective was to design a 3D bionic arm which is made of heavy duty plastic with low weight. The aim was to use servo motors instead of stepper motors to maintain less delay and less weight. The aim was also to design an Artificial Intelligence (AI) based-bionic arm program that can be feasibly modified for future purposes, such as adding new gestures and optimizing the system’s control. The new design comprised 3D printing arm, controlling the design, testing motors and EMG sensors, choosing cost-effective parts, simulating and finalizing the real prototype. In conjunction with direct performing motor mechanisms and a full-scale model of a bionic prosthesis, the development was intended for medical rehabilitation of the upper limbs. Experimental results included, the development of a real AI-based system to customize gestures controlled using Neural Network. Results also included maintaining accurate and clean readings of the EMG sensor. Moreover, the new bionic prosthesis arm insured no delay in performance which mimics the normal function of the hand. Results also showed that our design surpassed available designs in its cost-effectiveness, provided that in several other specifications it was comparable. The design was flexible and AI-based controlled. As a future prospect, more algorithms can be tested and more gestures can be tested in the new AI-based design
DEVELOPMENT OF AN INJECTABLE CHITOSAN-BASED BIOINK FOR ENHANCED BONE FRACTURE HEALING VIA MSC-DERIVED OSTEOGENESIS
Full text linkWorldwide, bone fractures are a major public health concern and, there is an urgent requirement to create new treatments to accelerate the rate of the bone healing process. This research mainly relies on creating a hydrogel that satisfies the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and makes it a suitable medium to differentiate into osteogenic cells. We combine the BM-MSCs with a chitosan polymer-based hydrogel, infused with PVA to enhance bone healing, this unique mixture forms Bioink . We induced a closed fracture model in the rat\u27s right humerus, followed by injection of a single dosage of bioink. On day 14 with the weekly x-ray examination, we noticed complete bone closure although it was expected that for instance, adolescent rats, specifically those aged 6 weeks, are capable of forming bone to bridge the fracture gap within four weeks, so we terminated the experiment on day 14 as bioink, as observed, had reduced the healing time by half, which is a promising result. In conclusion, the current study\u27s findings as a pilot test point out the possibility of this Bioink being involved in the treatment and acceleration of bone fractures
IMPROVING HEALTHCARE WORKERS’ BIOHAZARDOUS SPILL SAFE HANDLING SKILLS
Full text linkAll healthcare workers (HCWs) are exposed to biohazardous material. Biohazardous material may come in the form of spills, posing a risk of infection to (HCWs) who are not trained on how to safely handle them. While international guidelines recommend training HCWs on how to safely handle biohazardous spills in order to improve their skills, there are no studies that tackled this recommendation. The aim of this study is to improve HCWs’ biohazardous spill safe handling skills through training, and to evaluate the association between the HCWs’ improvement level and demographical characteristics. The study was conducted in a Southern Lebanese hospital where a convenience sample of 100 HCWs from different professions was recruited according to a set inclusion criterion. The study followed a quantitative non-experimental post-test design. HCWs were trained by using power point presentation and a video that include the handling ways. Then, each healthcare worker (HCW) demonstrated the learned skills and the level of improvement was measured by a competency checklist. SPSS version 25 was used as a statistical tool. The mean competency score of HCWs post demonstration was 4.41 over 5. The score can be generalized to all HCWs who get the education. Also, a strong correlation between competency checklist score and age, as well as years of experience was prevalent (
EXAMINING ELEVATION OPENING RATIO AND SPACE PROPORTIONS IN LEBANESE SCHOOLS
Full text linkThe academic performance and outcomes of students are significantly impacted by the architecture of educational institutions. When designing learning spaces, two important considerations are the size of the room and the elevation opening percentage that describe how much daylight enters the space through windows. Previous studies showed that these factors have an important effect on student learning performance. This study explores the link between elevation opening percentage and space proportions in educational institutions. In order to assess daylight dispersal in a classroom in Lebanon that faced north—the direction required for the nation\u27s best solar exposure—a quantitative approach utilizing modelling software was employed. The investigation looked at four various room dimensions with ratios of 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2, and 1:3, as well as six different height opening percentages varied from 10% to 100%. The simulations additionally demonstrated that the proportion of windows open has a noteworthy effect on natural light dispersion, with larger percentages leading to more uniform light distribution. The 1:1.5 space proportion is the most effective classroom ratio based on the simulation results
USES OF HERBAL EXTRACTS IN ENDODONTOLOGY: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Full text linkThe use of natural herbal extracts in the field of dentistry, and specifically in endodontology had gained a high popularity in the past few years. The main objective of endodontic treatment is to prevent and eliminate the infection from the root canal, seize the invasion of microorganisms to periradicular tissues and preserve the natural dentition. Studies had shown that some herbs are better alternatives to traditional chemical irrigants or medicaments used in root canal treatment, based on their potential antimicrobial effect, smear layer removal capabilities, tissue dissolution effect, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. Aim: The purpose of this literature review was to investigate the application of different herbal extracts in endodontology. Methodology: Studies and articles related to herbs used in endodontology from electronic database sources were assembled in a flow chart and presented based on their functions and obtained outcome in root canal treatment. Results: Herbs differ in their activities and their intended use in endodontology, they can be used as alternatives to the commonly employed antimicrobial agents during root canal treatment, for removal of smear layer instead of the chemical acids or as inductive to dentin-pulp complex regeneration. Conclusion: Studies concerning the use of herbs in endodontology showed desirable effects, they are safer than sodium hypochlorite, non-toxic, and effective against bacteria. However, more research is required to assess the effect of herbs in vivo, and specially their effect on dental pulp regeneration
WATER BODY SATELLITE IMAGES SEGMENTATION USING MAXWELL BOLTZMANN DISTRIBUTION
Full text linkImages can exhibit diverse attributes and characteristics, because of variations in both the quantity of each intensity level and their respective positions, histograms display varying distributions. Some images feature symmetric histograms, while others exhibit asymmetry. In image segmentation tasks, traditional mean-based thresholding methods work well with symmetric histograms, relying on Gaussian distribution definitions. However, situations arise where asymmetric distributions must be considered. Threshold-based segmentation entails the partitioning of intensity levels into separate regions determined by the threshold value. Within this category of thresholding methods, Minimum Cross Entropy Thresholding (MCET) stands out as a mean-based thresholding technique with a unique self-contained objective function adaptable to various distributions. In our study, we propose incorporating the Maxwell-Boltzmann Distribution into MCET\u27s objective function. We introduce a specialized model aimed at enhancing efficiency in image segmentation tasks, enabling precise data analysis customized to specific images with histograms skewed to the right. This approach yields improved segmentation results by considering the impact of utilizing the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution with the right-skewed distribution within MCET\u27s objective function. We have validated our approach, and we conducted a comparative analysis, assessing the performance of our proposed model against relevant studies in the literature. We applied this approach to Sentinel-2 satellite imagery for water body segmentation. The outcomes showcase the effectiveness of our model in segmenting images with right-skewed histograms, substantiated by a variety of performance evaluations
THE ARAB LEGISLATIVE SYSTEM ... A REALITY THAT REQUIRES REVIEW! A CRITICAL READING IN PHILOSOPHY AND ROOTING
Full text linkWith an open intellectual vision and a critical reading of the reality of the “Arab” legislative system, the research attempts to clarify the identity of this system, and the extent of its ability to be our expression. Stressing that we are facing a reality that, as much as we superficially believe it deserves praise, it actually requires review. Basing this on a major axiom, which is that this legislative innovation in what is known today as: the “legislative pyramid” of sources of law in Arab legislation, is, in our belief, the cause that has deviated our legislative system from its true compass.
Explaining, through analysis and consolidation, the reality and truth of the absurd overlap between the Positive and the Sharia within this system, legislatively. And the professional shortcomings of those responsible for this system, which reinforced the priority of the Positive over the Sharia. In all of this, we present the researcher’s vision in transcending these multiple aspects of absurdity and shortcomings.
Let us conclude from all of this that we are facing a “strange” legislative system! Do not cross us even if you come close to us. The legislative system that befits us and expresses us is Islamic in origin and origin. It is a wish, we hope that God will grant it a political will that will realize it soon, sooner rather than later
THE COMMERCIAL ASPECTS OF PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP (PPP) CONTRACTS IN QATARI LAW
Full text linkThis research paper examines the characteristics of commercial aspects of public-private partnership (PPP) contracts under Qatari law. The study highlights the importance of emphasizing the commercial aspects of partnership contracts to incentivize private sector engagement in Qatar\u27s economic development, enhance investment opportunities, and understand Qatar\u27s legislative approach in excluding these contracts from administrative laws. The study concludes that Qatari legislation focuses on the investment and economic dimensions of public-private partnership contracts, framing them as economic tools and as commercial contracts. Moreover, Qatar\u27s third national development strategy underscores governance over partnership projects as fundamental to the business environment in Qatar, further exemplified by the establishment of specialized courts to handle commercial contracts including Public-Private Partnerships. This legislative philosophy aims to exclude administrative aspects from public-private partnership contracts, thereby reinforcing their commercial nature. The research recommends legislative amendments to affirm the commercial aspects of these contracts, Issuance of detailed rules governing partnership procedures, and the development of a guidance manual outlining all stages and procedures of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Contracts
ENFORCEABILITY OF THE EMERGENCY ARBITRATOR DECISIONS
Full text linkThis document aims to examine the enforceability of decisions made by emergency arbitrators in international arbitration. It will analyze the challenges and potential solutions within the current legal framework, including the nature of emergency arbitrator decisions and the mandatory and public order regulations in each jurisdiction. The study will assess the different approaches taken by various jurisdictions and arbitral bodies, as well as the role of national courts in enforcing or annulling emergency arbitrator rulings. Additionally, the analysis will consider the impact of these developments on the efficiency and effectiveness of the arbitration process. By thoroughly exploring these issues, this document seeks to improve understanding of the enforceability of emergency arbitrator decisions and provide valuable insights for practitioners, arbitrators, and policymakers in the field of arbitration law
URBAN WATERFRONT REVITALIZATION AS A REGENERATIVE TOOL OF SUSTAINABLE CITIES
Full text linkWaterfronts are regarded as one of the most crucial components of urban development as they connect water elements to the urban fabric. They provide residents with opportunities to engage in essential waterfront activities, which contribute to the area\u27s social, economic, urban, and environmental importance. Urban places with waterfronts are more valuable and help people visualize certain scenes in their mind maps. Egypt boasts numerous waterfronts with distinct locations, particularly Port Said city, which overlooks the Suez Canal along the city\u27s tourist walkway. This significant site is considered the cornerstone of the world and the meeting point of the continents of Asia and Africa. It holds a prominent position locally and globally in terms of global transport and trade, playing a vital role in achieving economic and environmental sustainability. Additionally, it holds historical value. However, despite these attributes, it faces various urban, economic, and environmental challenges. Consequently, the research idea emerged, highlighting the necessity of adopting a sustainable strategy to regenerate this vital area in terms of urban, economic, environmental, and social aspects while preserving its heritage and historical value. The research emphasizes three main aspects: firstly, a theoretical study that encompasses the definition and principles of urban waterfronts; secondly, an analytical study of one of the best international waterfronts worldwide (Kyrenia waterfront); and finally, an applied study that applies the most important criteria derived from the analytical study to the port said waterfront, with the aim of achieving a sustainable waterfront