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One of the primary challenges in assessing the influence of architectural design elements on human emotional experience is determining which elements can promptly capture people's attention within a space and understanding the nature of the impact these elements have on individuals. This study addresses a key obstacle in comprehending the effect of architectural design elements on human emotions. The objective is to identify elements that stand out to people and immediately engage their attention in a given space, examining how these elements contribute to the overall emotional experience in those spaces. Employing a survey framework, findings from a representative sample of 75 participants in Egypt indicate that specific elements, such as spatial scale and openness, the presence of windows and natural daylighting, adaptability of the space for isolation or social interaction, artificial lighting levels, and spatial density, can significantly influence human emotional experience. While these insights provide valuable guidance for design decision-making, it's important to note that the study focused on Egypt and gathered experiences from participants in that specific cultural context. Despite this focus, the framework has the potential for cross-cultural application, establishing a basis for objective evaluations of architectural design elements across diverse cultural and regional settings.

Abstract The indirect dumping of massive volumes of toxic dyes into water has seriously affected the ecosystem. Owing to the many applications of the designed nanomaterials in the manufacturing process, there is a lot of research interest in synthesizing nanomaterials using green processes. In this research, the byproduct of bee was employed to synthesize nanoparticles (NPs) of ZnO, CuO, and biosynthesized ZnO/CuO (BZC) nanocomposite via utilizing a green and simple approach. To validate the effective fabrication of BZC nanocomposite, various characterization measurements were applied. FTIR analysis identified the functional groups in charge of producing nanoparticles and nanocomposites. Moreover, the existence of ZnO and CuO XRD peaks suggests that the nanocomposites were successfully biosynthesized. The high-resolution XPS spectrum of the BZC nanocomposite’s Zn2p3, Cu2p3, and O1s were observed. Our findings indicate the successful engineering of the prepared nanomaterials and BZC nanocomposite. Our findings indicate the successful engineering of the prepared nanomaterials and BZC nanocomposite. For Congo red (CR) fluorescent stain azo dye elimination in water, all adsorption parameters were examined at room temperature. Moreover, the adsorption experiments revealed the removal capacity for uptake CR dye using BZC nanocomposite (90.14 mg g−1). Our results show that the BZC nanocomposite exhibited high removal capability for the adsorption of CR dye. The nanosphere adsorbent offered a simple, low-cost, and green approach for water purification and industrial wastewater control.

Abstract Background The aim of this work is to set up the standards for performing musculoskeletal ultrasound scans and reporting as an additional procedure in the rheumatology setting. We used two rounds of the Delphi approach to get the consensus on a musculoskeletal ultrasound reporting. Results Fifteen expert panels had completed the two rounds of surveys. After the end of round two, eighteen recommendations distributed upon eight domains were released. The percentage of the agreement on the recommendations was 93.3 to 100 %. All eighteen key questions were answered at the end of the second round with agreement. Conclusion A musculoskeletal ultrasound report template has been developed by this study, based on outcomes of a Delphi process, by an international participants’ panel. All domains met the 80% voting threshold set in this work. The reporting template can be used for both clinical research as well as standard practice to provide guidance and standardize the musculoskeletal ultrasound reporting.

Objective: To evaluate the predictive validity of IRIS™ (Intuitive Surgical®, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) as a planning tool for robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) by assessing the degree of overlap with intraoperative execution. Methods: Thirty-one patients scheduled for RAPN by four experienced urologists were enrolled in a prospective study. Prior to surgery, urologists reviewed the IRIS™ three-dimensional model on an iphone Operating System (iOS) app and completed a questionnaire outlining their surgical plan including surgical approach, and ischemia technique as well as confidence in executing this plan. Postoperatively, questionnaires assessing the procedural approach, clinical utility, efficiency, and effectiveness of IRIS™ were completed. The degree of overlap between the preoperative and intraoperative questionnaires and between the planned approach and actual execution of the procedure was analyzed. Questionnaires were answered on a 5-point Likert scale and scores of 4 or greater were considered positive. Results: Mean age was 65.1 years with a mean tumor size of 27.7 mm (interquartile range 17.5–44.0 mm). Hilar tumors consisted of 32.3%; 48.4% of patients had R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry scores of 7–9. On preoperative questionnaires, the surgeons reported that in 67.7% cases they were confident that they can perform the procedure successfully, and on intraoperative questionnaires, the surgeons reported that in 96.8% cases IRIS™ helped achieve good spatial sensation of the anatomy. There was a high degree of overlap between preoperative and intraoperative questionnaires for the surgical approach, interpreting anatomical details and clinical utility. When comparing plans for selective or off-clamp, the preoperative plan was executed in 90.0% of cases intraoperatively. Conclusion: A high degree of overlap between the preoperative surgical approach and intraoperative RAPN execution was found using IRIS™. This is the first study to evaluate the predictive accuracy of IRIS™ during RAPN by comparing preoperative plan and intraoperative execution.

Abstract COVID-19 can induce neurological sequelae, negatively affecting the quality of life. Unravelling this illness's impact on structural brain connectivity, white-matter microstructure (WMM), and cognitive performance may help elucidate its implications. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate differences in these factors between former hospitalised COVID-19 patients (COV) and healthy controls. Group differences in structural brain connectivity were explored using Welch-two sample t-tests and two-sample Mann–Whitney U tests. Multivariate linear models were constructed (one per region) to examine fixel-based group differences. Differences in cognitive performance between groups were investigated using Wilcoxon Rank Sum tests. Possible effects of bundle-specific FD measures on cognitive performance were explored using a two-group path model. No differences in whole-brain structural organisation were found. Bundle-specific metrics showed reduced fiber density (p = 0.012, Hedges’ g = 0.884) and fiber density cross-section (p = 0.007, Hedges’ g = 0.945) in the motor segment of the corpus callosum in COV compared to healthy controls. Cognitive performance on the motor praxis and digit symbol substitution tests was worse in COV than healthy controls (p

BackgroundLower limb amputation contributes to structural and functional brain alterations, adversely affecting gait, balance, and overall quality of life. Therefore, selecting an appropriate prosthetic ankle is critical in enhancing the well-being of these individuals. Despite the availability of various prostheses, their impact on brain neuroplasticity remains poorly understood.ObjectivesThe primary objective is to examine differences in the degree of brain neuroplasticity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between individuals wearing a new passive ankle prosthesis with an articulated ankle joint and a standard passive prosthesis, and to examine changes in brain neuroplasticity within these two prosthetic groups. The second objective is to investigate the influence of prosthetic type on walking performance and quality of life. The final objective is to determine whether the type of prosthesis induces differences in the walking movement pattern.MethodsParticipants with a unilateral transtibial amputation will follow a 24-week protocol. Prior to rehabilitation, baseline MRI scans will be performed, followed by allocation to the intervention arms and commencement of rehabilitation. After 12 weeks, baseline functional performance tests and a quality of life questionnaire will be administered. At the end of the 24-week period, participants will undergo the same MRI scans, functional performance tests and questionnaire to evaluate any changes. A control group of able-bodied individuals will be included for comparative analysis.ConclusionThis study aims to unravel the differences in brain neuroplasticity and prosthesis type in patients with a unilateral transtibial amputation and provide insights into the therapeutic benefits of prosthetic devices. The findings could validate the therapeutic benefits of more advanced lower limb prostheses, potentially leading to a societal impact ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals with lower limb amputation.Trial registrationNCT05818410 (Clinicaltrials.gov).

Abstract Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) can be derived from embryonic stem cells (hESCs) or be induced from somatic cells by OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and MYC (OSKM). Here we explore whether the hTSC state can be induced independently of pluripotency, and what are the mechanisms underlying its acquisition. We identify GATA3, OCT4, KLF4 and MYC (GOKM) as a combination of factors that can generate functional hiTSCs from fibroblasts. Transcriptomic analysis of stable GOKM- and OSKM-hiTSCs reveals 94 hTSC-specific genes that are aberrant specifically in OSKM-derived hiTSCs. Through time-course-RNA-seq analysis, H3K4me2 deposition and chromatin accessibility, we demonstrate that GOKM exert greater chromatin opening activity than OSKM. While GOKM primarily target hTSC-specific loci, OSKM mainly induce the hTSC state via targeting hESC and hTSC shared loci. Finally, we show that GOKM efficiently generate hiTSCs from fibroblasts that harbor knockout for pluripotency genes, further emphasizing that pluripotency is dispensable for hTSC state acquisition.

Abstract Background Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute, self-limited febrile disease of unidentified cause that mostly affects children less than 5 years of age. This work aimed to provide an appropriate Egyptian evidence-based consensus on clinical practice recommendations for the management of Kawasaki disease. The main objective of this study, which employed the Delphi method, was to reach a consensus among experts on a treat-to-target management approach for KD. Results The expert panel was confined to an online survey (n=26), and all the expert completed the three rounds. At the conclusion of round 3, a total of 17 recommendation items were gathered, which were divided into two sections. The range of respondents (ranks 7–9) who agreed with the recommendations was 92.3 to 100%. All 17 clinical standards identified by the scientific committee were written in the same way. There have been algorithms proposed for managing various KD conditions. Conclusion The developed evidence-based consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and management of KD represent an up-to-date document that focuses on clinical management questions which are generally posed to health care professionals involved in the management of KD. This guideline was developed considering experience with and availability of treatment and diagnostic options in Egypt.

Objective: To evaluate the short-term efficacy of Dutasteride in the management of chronic prostatitis (CP)/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Materials and methods: A randomized placebo-controlled double-blind study was conducted that including 50 patients diagnosed with CP based on the presence of pelvic pain for ≥3 months of the preceding 6 months. Patients were randomized into 2 equal groups to evaluate Dutasteride of 0.5 mg once daily that was given for 3 months compared to a placebo. Results: Forty-nine patients were evaluated after the follow-up period with no statistically significant difference in the perioperative demographic data. The mean age of the Dutasteride group was 48.3 (range 41–62) compared to a mean age of 46.5 (range 44–60) in the placebo group. There was a highly statistically significant improvement in the Dutasteride group compared to its preoperative parameters and the placebo compared group in the terms of pain, urinary scores, and total National Institutes of Health CP symptom score. Moderate and marked improvement in patients’ symptomatology was seen in 56% of the dutasteride group, while only 8% in the dutasteride group failed to show an improvement with no significant side effects noted in our study. Conclusion: The short-term outcome of dutasteride therapy showed an improvement in the National Institutes of Health-CP symptom score compared to a placebo in the treatment of category IIIB CP. The trial was registered in the clinical trial.gov registry with a registration number: NCT04756206.

Ectopic transcription factor expression can reprogram mouse fibroblasts to pluripotent or trophoblast stem cells. Here the authors apply multi-omics analyses to the induction of pluripotency and trophoblast stem cell state from fibroblasts, comparing these with the changes in transcriptome of early embryonic cells.

Three locations along the western Mediterranean coastal zone of Egypt (Abu Qir Bay, El Max Bay, and Marsa Matrouh), have been exposed to different anthropogenic sources that threatened the benthic ecosystem conditions. Benthic foraminiferal assemblages revealed the environmental changes and highlighted the main factors controlling foraminiferal distribution in the different environments. The assessment of benthic foraminiferal assemblages using quantitative univariate (diversity indices) and multivariate statistical analyses, allied with water quality and sediments geochemical data sets have been verified from a total of 26 surface sediment samples collected along the three locations. Benthic foraminiferal species were abundant in all samples where 51 species, pertaining to 28 genera, have been identified. Abu Qir area reflected a stressful environment with high organic matters and relatively low oxygen levels, followed by El Max Bay. These results revealed that benthic foraminifera favored environments with high organic matter, while benthic ecosystem oxygenation level seems to have a minor impact. The minimum anthropogenic influence over Marsa Matrouh area, compared with the other two sites, was evident from the dominance of sensitive species relative to water quality deviations and narrow pollution tolerance assemblage. Anthropogenic activities along the three selected sites demonstrated a wide range of severity ranging from severe to moderate to insignificant impact over the benthic ecosystem.

Abstract Background Functional mapping of eloquent brain areas is crucial for preoperative planning in patients with brain tumors. Resting state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) allows the localization of functional brain areas without the need for task performance, making it well-suited for the pediatric population. In this study the independent component analysis (ICA) rs-fMRI functional mapping results are reported in a group of 22 pediatric patients with supratentorial brain tumors. Additionally, the functional connectivity (FC) maps of the sensori-motor network (SMN) obtained using ICA and seed-based analysis (SBA) are compared. Results Different resting state networks (RSNs) were extracted using ICA with varying levels of sensitivity, notably, the SMN was identified in 100% of patients, followed by the Default mode network (DMN) (91%) and Language networks (80%). Additionally, FC maps of the SMN extracted by SBA were more extensive (mean volume = 25,288.36 mm3, standard deviation = 13,364.36 mm3) than those found on ICA (mean volume = 13,403.27 mm3, standard deviation = 9755.661 mm3). This was confirmed by statistical analysis using a Wilcoxon signed rank t test at p

AbstractRecent mechanistic models argue for a key role of rhythm processing in both speech production and speech perception. Patients with the non-fluent variant (NFV) of primary progressive aphasia (PPA) with apraxia of speech (AOS) represent a specific study population in which this link can be examined. Previously, we observed impaired rhythm processing in NFV with AOS. We hypothesized that a shared neurocomputational mechanism structures auditory input (sound and speech) and output (speech production) in time, a “temporal scaffolding” mechanism. Since considerable white matter damage is observed in NFV, we test here whether white matter changes are related to impaired rhythm processing. Forty-seven participants performed a psychoacoustic test battery: 12 patients with NFV and AOS, 11 patients with the semantic variant of PPA, and 24 cognitively intact age- and education-matched controls. Deformation-based morphometry was used to test whether white matter volume correlated to rhythmic abilities. In 34 participants, we also obtained tract-based metrics of the left Aslant tract, which is typically damaged in patients with NFV. Nine out of 12 patients with NFV displayed impaired rhythmic processing. Left frontal white matter atrophy adjacent to the supplementary motor area (SMA) correlated with poorer rhythmic abilities. The structural integrity of the left Aslant tract also correlated with rhythmic abilities. A colocalized and perhaps shared white matter substrate adjacent to the SMA is associated with impaired rhythmic processing and motor speech impairment. Our results support the existence of a temporal scaffolding mechanism structuring perceptual input and speech output.

Abstract Background We aim to evaluate isoamyl 2-cyanoacrylate as an intervening layer in the surgical repair of the urethra-cutaneous fistula (UCF) after hypospadias in comparison with the classic surgical repair technique. Methods Between January 2017 and July 2018, 40 patients with UCF were randomized into two equal groups. Group I represented a multilayered closure with dartos fascia flap while using cyanoacrylate glue as an interposition layer, while group II represented the same procedure without applying the glue. We followed up our patients for 6 months following the procedure to evaluate a successful closure. Results Forty patients were available for evaluation at the end of our study. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding their demographic data. The mean fistula size was 3.25 ± 0.64 and 3.15 ± 0.75 mm in group I and II, respectively, with a statistically significant difference. Successful UCF closure was achieved in 80% of cases in group I (16/20) and 70% of group II (14/20) with no statistically significant difference. There was no statistically significant difference between both groups as regards the occurrence of mild complications in the postoperative period, which was 10% in both groups. Conclusion The application of cyanoacrylate during UCF repair was feasible and safe. The successful repair of UCF was found to be higher with cyanoacrylate. However, we could not demonstrate a statistically significant difference between the two groups. Trial registration number The trial is registered at clinicaltrial.gov with trial registration number: NCT04876976 (retrospective registration)

Background: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) applies electric currents to the brain to induce seizures for therapeutic purposes. ECT increases gray matter (GM) volume, predominantly in the medial temporal lobe (MTL). The contribution of induced seizures to this volume change remains unclear. Methods: T1-weighted structural MRI was acquired from thirty patients with late-life depression (mean age 72.5 ± 7.9 years, 19 female), before and one week after one course of right unilateral ECT. Whole brain voxel-/deformation-/surface-based morphometry analyses were conducted to identify tissue-specific (GM, white matter: WM), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and cerebral morphometry changes following ECT. Whole-brain voxel-wise electric field (EF) strength was estimated to investigate the association of EF distribution and regional brain volume change. The association between percentage volume change in the right MTL and ECT-related parameters (seizure duration, EF, and number of ECT sessions) was investigated using multiple regression. Results: ECT induced widespread GM volume expansion with corresponding contraction in adjacent CSF compartments, and limited WM change. The regional EF was strongly correlated with the distance from the electrodes, but not with regional volume change. The largest volume expansion was identified in the right MTL, and this was correlated with the total seizure duration. Conclusions: Right unilateral ECT induces widespread, bilateral regional volume expansion and contraction, with the largest change in the right MTL. This dynamic volume change cannot be explained by the effect of electrical stimulation alone and is related to the cumulative effect of ECT-induced seizures.

Abstract Background We examined in cognitively intact older adults the relative weight of cognitive, genetic, structural and amyloid brain imaging variables for predicting cognitive change over a 4-year time course. Methods One hundred-eighty community-recruited cognitively intact older adults (mean age 68 years, range 52–80 years, 81 women) belonging to the Flemish Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease Cohort KU Leuven (F-PACK) longitudinal observational cohort underwent a baseline evaluation consisting of detailed cognitive assessment, structural MRI and 18F-flutemetamol PET. At inclusion, subjects were stratified based on Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) val66met polymorphism according to a factorial design. At inclusion, 15% were amyloid-PET positive (Centiloid >23.4). All subjects underwent 2-yearly follow-up of cognitive performance for a 4-year time period. Baseline cognitive scores were analysed using factor analysis. The slope of cognitive change over time was modelled using latent growth curve analysis. Using correlation analysis, hierarchical regression and mediation analysis, we examined the effect of demographic (age, sex, education) and genetic variables, baseline cognition, MRI volumetric (both voxelwise and region-based) as well as amyloid imaging measures on the longitudinal slope of cognitive change. Results A base model of age and sex explained 18.5% of variance in episodic memory decline. This increased to 41.6% by adding baseline episodic memory scores. Adding amyloid load or volumetric measures explained only a negligible additional amount of variance (increase to 42.2%). A mediation analysis indicated that the effect of age on episodic memory scores was partly direct and partly mediated via hippocampal volume. Amyloid load did not play a significant role as mediator between age, hippocampal volume and episodic memory decline. Conclusion In cognitively intact older adults, the strongest baseline predictor of subsequent episodic memory decline was the baseline episodic memory score. When this score was included, only very limited explanatory power was added by brain volume or amyloid load measures. The data warn against classifications that are purely biomarker-based and highlight the value of baseline cognitive performance levels in predictive models.

Human lives in continuous changes and life style imposes a lot of changes on his/her way in living. During the crisis of COVID-19 human being lost a lot of daily habits and new habits appeared, he started to practice his activities from home such as working and studying due to quarantine procedures as it is normal, they feel the hardships of isolation and working from home. Due to the spread of the disease, home isolation has become more safe for those with minor symptoms Therefore, human needs comfortable interior spaces to feel safe whereas home or interior space is human’s haven in this circumstance. It is hard sometimes to feel privacy during working from home which may force the human to work outside with taking necessary precautions. As a result, there is a need for interior spaces coping up with emerging requirements. General spaces are places for people to meet and work. When doing business and activities abroad, a person must follow methods that help in achieving social separation and protect individuals from the causes of infection, so So interior spaces that are in line with the emerging requirements were needed by humans .Thus, research problem is How can interior spaces achieve emerging requirements in the shade of COVID-19. The research aims to access to interior design achieving human needs and requirements in the shade of COVID-19. The importance of the research can be stated in modern human need for interior spaces coping up with society’s emerging events so as they will be comforting psychologically and help to decrease tension and stress coping up with new life style with materials helping to decrease the spread of epidemic through analytical studies for some spaces.

Background: Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is considered the gold standard surgical intervention for prostate size less than 80 g. Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) has been suggested as a minimally invasive interventional radiological procedure in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), especially by using the PErFecTED technique. We aim through our study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PAE compared with those of monopolar transurethral resection of prostate (M-TURP) and bipolar transurethral resection of prostate (B-TURP) in treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) secondary to BPH. Methods: We randomized 60 patients into 3 equal groups representing M-TURP, B-TURP, and PAE. Patients were followed up at 1 and 6 months postoperatively with regard to the International prostate symptom score (IPSS) score; uroflowmetry; prostate volume by transrectal ultrasound; and postvoid residual urine. Results: The mean operative time was 59, 68, and 89 minutes for the M-TURP group, the B-TURP group, and the PAE group, respectively; only one patient, who represented 5% of the M-TURP group and 1.7% of the whole study population, developed transurethral resection syndrome. Four patients of the PAE group complained of postembolization syndrome, which represented 20% of the cases. Only two patients in our study, both belonging to the PAE group, developed acute urinary retention after catheter removal, representing 10% of the PAE group and 3.33% of the whole study population. The improvement in the IPSS score, the average uroflowmetry (Q-average) score, postvoid residual urine, and prostate volume reduction was noted in all groups, with more statistically significant improvement in each of the M-TURP and the B-TURP groups than in the PAE group. Conclusion: PErFecTED technique is a novel way of embolization, with statistically significant improvement for patients complaining of LUTSs due to BPH in terms of improvement of IPSS, uroflowmetry, prostate size, and amount of postvoid residual urine, yet these results are still not comparable with either the results of M-TURP or B-TURP that still show more effective improvement.

IgA vasculitis (IgAV), formerly known as Henoch-Schönlein purpura, is the most common cause of systemic vasculitis in childhood. Given its potential life-threatening systemic complications, early and accurate diagnosis as well as management of IgAV represent a major challenge for health care professionals. This study was carried out to attain an evidence-based expert consensus on a treat-to-target management approach for IgAV using Delphi technique. The preliminary scientific committee identified a total of 16 key clinical questions according to the patient, intervention, comparison, and outcomes (PICO) approach. An evidence-based, systematic, literature review was conducted to compile evidence for the IgAV management. The core leadership team identified researchers and clinicians with expertise in IgAV management in Egypt upon which experts were gathered from different governorates and health centers across Egypt. Delphi process was implemented (two rounds) to reach a consensus. An online questionnaire was sent to expert panel ( n = 26) who participated in the two rounds. After completing round 2, a total of 20 recommendation items, categorized into two sections were obtained. Agreement with the recommendations (rank 7–9) ranged from 91.7–100%. Consensus was reached (i.e. ⩾75% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed) on the wording of all the 20 clinical standards identified by the scientific committee. Algorithms for the diagnosis and management have been suggested. This was an expert, consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of IgAV and IgA vasculitic nephritis, based on best available evidence and expert opinion. The guideline presented a strategy of care with a pathway to achieve a state of remission as early as possible. Plain Language Summary Given its potential life-threatening systemic complications, early and accurate diagnosis of immunoglobulin A vasculitis represents a major challenge for health care professionals. This work provided cornerstone principles for the management of the condition. Adopting PICO approach and implementing Delphi process a consensus was reached on evidence-based treat-to-target treatment recommendations. This will endorse enhancement and consistency of care of this cohort of patients in standard practice.

While the diagnosis of high-grade glioma (HGG) is still associated with a considerably poor prognosis, neurosurgical tumor resection provides an opportunity for prolonged survival and improved quality of life for affected patients. However, successful tumor resection is dependent on a proper surgical planning to avoid surgery-induced functional deficits whilst achieving a maximum extent of resection (EOR). With diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) providing insight into individual white matter neuroanatomy, the challenge remains to disentangle that information as correctly and as completely as possible. In particular, due to the lack of sensitivity and accuracy, the clinical value of widely used diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)-based tractography is increasingly questioned. We evaluated whether the recently developed multi-level fiber tracking (MLFT) technique can improve tractography of the corticospinal tract (CST) in patients with motor-eloquent HGGs. Forty patients with therapy-naïve HGGs (mean age: 62.6 ± 13.4 years, 57.5% males) and preoperative diffusion MRI [repetition time (TR)/echo time (TE): 5000/78 ms, voxel size: 2x2x2 mm3, one volume at b=0 s/mm2, 32 volumes at b=1000 s/mm2] underwent reconstruction of the CST of the tumor-affected and unaffected hemispheres using MLFT in addition to deterministic DTI-based and deterministic constrained spherical deconvolution (CSD)-based fiber tractography. The brain stem was used as a seeding region, with a motor cortex mask serving as a target region for MLFT and a region of interest (ROI) for the other two algorithms. Application of the MLFT method substantially improved bundle reconstruction, leading to CST bundles with higher radial extent compared to the two other algorithms (delineation of CST fanning with a wider range; median radial extent for tumor-affected vs. unaffected hemisphere – DTI: 19.46° vs. 18.99°, p=0.8931; CSD: 30.54° vs. 27.63°, p=0.0546; MLFT: 81.17° vs. 74.59°, p=0.0134). In addition, reconstructions by MLFT and CSD-based tractography nearly completely included respective bundles derived from DTI-based tractography, which was however favorable for MLFT compared to CSD-based tractography (median coverage of the DTI-based CST for affected vs. unaffected hemispheres – CSD: 68.16% vs. 77.59%, p=0.0075; MLFT: 93.09% vs. 95.49%; p=0.0046). Thus, a more complete picture of the CST in patients with motor-eloquent HGGs might be achieved based on routinely acquired diffusion MRI data using MLFT.

White matter bundle segmentation using diffusion MRI fiber tractography has become the method of choice to identify white matter fiber pathways in vivo in human brains. However, like other analyses of complex data, there is considerable variability in segmentation protocols and techniques. This can result in different reconstructions of the same intended white matter pathways, which directly affects tractography results, quantification, and interpretation. In this study, we aim to evaluate and quantify the variability that arises from different protocols for bundle segmentation. Through an open call to users of fiber tractography, including anatomists, clinicians, and algorithm developers, 42 independent teams were given processed sets of human whole-brain streamlines and asked to segment 14 white matter fascicles on six subjects. In total, we received 57 different bundle segmentation protocols, which enabled detailed volume-based and streamline-based analyses of agreement and disagreement among protocols for each fiber pathway. Results show that even when given the exact same sets of underlying streamlines, the variability across protocols for bundle segmentation is greater than all other sources of variability in the virtual dissection process, including variability within protocols and variability across subjects. In order to foster the use of tractography bundle dissection in routine clinical settings, and as a fundamental analytical tool, future endeavors must aim to resolve and reduce this heterogeneity. Although external validation is needed to verify the anatomical accuracy of bundle dissections, reducing heterogeneity is a step towards reproducible research and may be achieved through the use of standard nomenclature and definitions of white matter bundles and well-chosen constraints and decisions in the dissection process.

Abstract A 59‐year‐old man was diagnosed with JAK2‐positive polycythemia vera. Subsequently, further laboratory testing revealed elevated ferritin and iron saturation. Genetic testing for HFE gene mutation screen revealed that the patient was positive for heterozygous C282Y mutation. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with both polycythemia vera and hereditary hemochromatosis.

Abu Qir Bay is a semicircular shallow basin lying at 35 km to the east of Alexandria City. It receives various types of continental discharges through three openings. Throughout the period 2012–2013, six surveys were carried out in the area to identify the water types based on salinity values and to investigate the zooplankton communities that characterize each water type.Based on the surface salinity distribution, three water types could be identified in the investigated area:Diluted water type (D) of salinity 38.50 psu was mainly included the offshore stations encompass neritic and oceanic species with low densities. It attained the lowest zooplankton abundance (9.5 × 103 ind.m−3) and was fairly diversified (66 species totally marine forms). Keywords: Hydrography, Water types, Zooplankton, Mediterranean, Abu Qir Bay, Egypt

One of the most important factors in the process of jack-up rig installation is the good expectation of the amount of spud-can penetration into soil layers under the varying loads. It is important to insert the spud-can through soil layers up to the expected stability depth during the installation process to guarantee enough soil stability reaction. The Press-Replace Technique (PRT), which is considered a kind of small-deformation nonlinear-material finite-element analysis, is applied in this paper to track the full load-penetration response of a spud-can in double-layered soil. A parametric study was carried out by using Plaxis 2D Vr.8.6 to evaluate the effect of the strength properties of soil on the Punch-through phenomenon and the bearing capacity of soil spud-can system by applying the Press Replace Technique (PRT). This study is also concerned with the penetration of a circular spud-can in stiff clay over either soft clay or loose sand soil. Among the considered properties of the soil, it was demonstrated that the undrained shear strength of top stiff clay layer is the most important parameter that affects the penetration response of spud-can in this case, where the properties of the lower soft clay layer do not have major effect.

Return to sports after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is often based on medical clearance and the rehabilitation teams’ decision regarding the physical readiness of athletes. However, re-injury and contralateral injuries are increasing. The purpose of the study was to assess the readiness for return to sport in a sample of division III athletes following ACL reconstruction. Twenty-one collegiate athletes (7 males and 14 females) with ACLR and medical clearance to return to sport were recruited. The functional performance of the athletes and the symmetry of both lower extremity measures were evaluated using motion/force-plate analysis, balance, core strength/endurance and functional knee performance testing. Athlete performance reports were provided with training suggestions. The operated lower extremities had a significant decrease in vertical ground reaction force, less knee flexion and more valgus during a single-leg landing task, lower balance scores and reduced hop distance for the majority of participants. Participants continued to show a reduction in operated legs’ performance despite being medically cleared for sports. Lasting deficiencies and their magnitude may explain the increased tendencies for re-injury following ACLR as reported in the literature. Safe return to sport following ACLR should be based on achieving symmetry of performance of lower extremities. A thorough assessment of an athlete’s performance using a comprehensive examination can identify deficiencies and can be used to guide clinical decision-making.

The Arabic calligraphy is considered the most beautiful calligraphy in the whole world, where it is still appreciated by all Arab Islamic art. The formation of the Arabic calligraphy through the ages in the internal and external architecture has passed through different stages depending on the tools and materials available for each stage. Through this research we will address the possibility of using the Arabic calligraphy through the formation in interior design with different materials, and to what extent the contribution of modern technology and the use of those lines, and trying to convert the idea of ​​producing a protocol production to serve small industries in the field of interior design, through the formation of innovative templates of Arabic letters and trying to reach the creative system to form the Arabic font in the field of interior design ,and benefit from the nature of Arabic fonts and the diversity of it to use it in the internal and external architecture. While taking into consideration the creative idea to design new characters for the Arabic alphabet to serve the field of research, and the formation of those characters in an innovative manner, and finally applying that idea in the field of interior design.

The interior designer may experience some stages of intellectual constancy or persistence as a result of following a certain design methodology regardless of the significant development in all aspects of life especially the field of design. This research assumes the possibility of establishing formative patterns to satisfy the need for contemporary innovation, and its application in new designs could lead to new mindset in form flexibility. The research aims to develop the interior designer and general designers’ point of view via application of different formative patterns from modern art movements which gives them the ability to innovate designs with new creative items to reach aesthetically appealing designs. Moreover, the efforts of creating new formative patterns that can be integrated in designs capable of coping with future changes.

Abstract Background Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are new narcotic or psychotropic drugs that are not controlled by the United Nations drug convention that may pose a serious public health threat due to their wide availability for purchase on the internet and in so called “head shops.” Yet, the extent of their global use remains largely unknown. The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review of the prevalence of NPS use in non-clinical populations. Methods This is a systematic review of observational studies. Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), Cochrane Library, Lilacs, Scopus, Global Health, PsychINFO, Web of Science, and the World Health Organization (WHO) regional databases will be searched for eligible prevalence studies published between 2010 and 2016. Data from cross-sectional studies that report the prevalence of NPS use (one or more types) in participants (of any age) from censuses or probabilistic or convenience samples will be included. Data will be extracted from eligible publications, using a data extraction tool developed for this study. Visual and statistical approaches will be adopted instead of traditional meta-analytic approaches. Discussion This review will describe the distributions of various types of prevalence estimates of NPS use and explore the impact of different population groups and study-related and tempo-geographical variables on characteristics of these distributions over the period of 2010 to 2016. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42016037020

Prolonged use of a standard mouse is associated with musculoskeletal symptoms. This review provides professionals with in-depth analysis of the literature regarding the evidence behind the use of alternative computer mouse designs and their ability to reduce discomfort in mouse users, in addition to the potential effect of ergonomics training and forearm supports. Multiple data bases were searched by independent researchers to identify 17 high-quality controlled trials including varieties of acceptable mouse designs (vertical, slanted, upright, roller bar, biofeedback and others). Methodological quality of these studies were assessed by independent raters utilizing the PEDro quality assessment scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB) scale, and the results revealed that included studies were of moderate quality (5–6/10) and had some intrinsic ROB. It is concluded that there is moderate quality of evidence to support the use of alternative mouse designs to reduce discomfort, promote posture and decrease unnecessary muscle activation, especially if accompanied by appropriate ergonomic training. However, standard mouse still offers appropriate users preference levels. Hence, the consensus is that, mouse selection and purchase should be an individualized process based on individual needs and work demands and that there is no universal model that works well with everyone.

Development of effective welding methods for thermoplastics is still in high demand. The new friction stir welding method will be applied here on high density polyethylene (HDPE) plates to provide the designer with reliable design data relevant to room temperature practical applications because welded joints can act as a failure initiation point. This may be a result of factors such as poor welding parameters and presence of weld defects. The combination effect of travel and rotational speeds of the welding tool is investigated. Tensile, impact and fatigue tests are applied on the HDPE welded joints in order to evaluate their loadability. The tool rotational speed, travel speed and tilt angle beside tool pin length are proved determined to be important in the joint formation quality and its mechanical properties. Optimum welding parameters of 930 rpm rotation speed at 25mm/min travel speed are determined in tensile, impact and fatigue testing. An optimum value of about 90% joint efficiency is achieved in tensile test, compared to the base material. In impact and fatigue tests, brittle failure due to presence of incomplete root penetration defect, takes place like a crack starter. Maximum impact strength of about 20 KJ/m2 and fatigue life of 710 cycles are recorded and found to be too low compared to the base material. The final results indicate that friction stir welding of HDPE thermoplastics may be a valid alternative to the conventional joining techniques after elimination of the weld root defect.

The present study aims to evaluate and compare the environmental parameters; temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), oxidizable organic matter (OOM) and total alkalinity during winter 2009 and 2010 of the western Mediterranean coast of Egypt starting from El Mex to El Salum with three to four vertical stations being sampled at each marine sector. The surface distributions of both temperature and salinity decrease westwards during both winter seasons. The data revealed that, the total averages of temperature (except El Mex area) and dissolved oxygen during winter 2009 (16.6 °C and 10.96 ml/l) in the studied marine sectors are higher than their corresponding values during winter 2010 (16.61 °C and 5.81 ml/l) but an opposite trend is obtained with total averages of salinity (38.55 and 38.675) and total alkalinity (2.52 meq/l and 2.98 meq/l) measured during 2009 and 2010. The maximum average of oxidizable organic matter at El Hamam sector during winter 2009 was found to be 2.23 mgO2/l lower than its value during 2010 (2.72 mgO2/l), while an opposite result was obtained with the total average of OOM at El Salum sector.

Background: As a unique joint that facilitates the articulation of the upper and lower jaws, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is concerned with several critical functions, such as speech and mastication. Pain that can become incapacitating is a result of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which are complex disorders affecting the masticatory muscles and the TMJ. Several anomalies and TMDs have an interdisciplinary relationship. Complementary and concurrent disorders may be caused by occlusal anomalies, psychological disorders, and changes in spine posture. Methods: This article examines the clinical characteristics of TMDs, their classification, their etiological factors, and the impact of TMJ disorders on the human body with reference to their anatomies and histological structures. Results: The clinical picture of some TMJ pathologies may be unknown, so certain biomarkers, such as cytokines, may be useful for an accurate diagnosis as they are frequently seen in TMJ disorders. Furthermore, novel therapeutic approaches that target pro-inflammatory cytokines and treat TMDs by using tissue engineering and regenerative medicine while permitting TMJ cartilage and bone regeneration may offer numerous benefits that require clinical translation. Conclusions: Implementation of recent modalities such as microvesicles and platelet-rich plasma in growth factors may provide a promising approach to enhance bone formation. In addition, we target different biological markers that give insights into the introduction of new pharmaceutical agents for therapy.

Background: As a unique joint that facilitates the articulation of the upper and lower jaws, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is concerned with several critical functions, such as speech and mastication. Pain that can become incapacitating is a result of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which are complex disorders affecting the masticatory muscles and the TMJ. Several anomalies and TMDs have an interdisciplinary relationship. Complementary and concurrent disorders may be caused by occlusal anomalies, psychological disorders, and changes in spine posture. Methods: This article examines the clinical characteristics of TMDs, their classification, their etiological factors, and the impact of TMJ disorders on the human body with reference to their anatomies and histological structures. Results: The clinical picture of some TMJ pathologies may be unknown, so certain biomarkers, such as cytokines, may be useful for an accurate diagnosis as they are frequently seen in TMJ disorders. Furthermore, novel therapeutic approaches that target pro-inflammatory cytokines and treat TMDs by using tissue engineering and regenerative medicine while permitting TMJ cartilage and bone regeneration may offer numerous benefits that require clinical translation. Conclusions: Implementation of recent modalities such as microvesicles and platelet-rich plasma in growth factors may provide a promising approach to enhance bone formation. In addition, we target different biological markers that give insights into the introduction of new pharmaceutical agents for therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Even though extensive studies on the prevalence of periodontal diseases in various populations worldwide have been carried out, data for the Egyptian population is limited. The present study was carried out to evaluate the occurrence and the severity of periodontal disease and its correlation with different risk factors. Methods: Periodontal examination was performed on 343 adults attending the outpatient clinics of the Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University, as well as three private clinics. Socio-demographic data, brushing frequency, body mass index (BMI) and dietary habits were recorded using a questionnaire. Results: It was found that 58.9% of participants had calculus deposits. The occurrence of periodontitis was 89.8%, where 70.8% of participants had stage I and 15.2% had stage II, while only 4.4% and 2.05% suffered from stage III and stage IV, respectively. Calculus was positively correlated with age, grains, and sugar in drinks and negatively correlated with socioeconomic status, education level, brushing frequency and milk. Calculus was not correlated with gender and BMI. Periodontitis was positively correlated with age, carbohydrates other than bread, grains, and crackers, as well as caffeinated drinks, while negatively correlated with gender, socioeconomic status, brushing frequency. Periodontitis was not correlated with BMI or education level. Conclusion: The present study clarifies that age, brushing frequency, carbohydrates and caffeinated drinks consumption are significant factors influencing the occurrence and the severity of periodontal diseases.