Digital Commons Network^™

Evaluating Vision Transformers In End-To-End Steering Angle And Speed Prediction Of Autonomous Vehicles Using Monocular Camera Video Input On Highways, Karam Darwish, Majd Ali

Al-Farahidi Expert Systems Journal

End-to-end autonomous driving systems have recently gained significant interest due to the rapid advancement of deep learning algorithms. This progress has enabled the development of intelligent agents that can drive vehicles like or potentially better than humans in some scenarios. This study investigates using Vision Transformers (ViTs) in end-to-end autonomous driving systems to predict vehicle steering angle and speed through behavior cloning. The paper suggests two models: a single-head ViT-MLP architecture that jointly predicts steering angle and speed and a multi-head model designed with two separate heads: one for steering angle prediction and the other for speed prediction. The models …

Artificial Intelligence In Credit Risk Assessment: Towards More Accurate And Efficient Financial Decision-Making, Jaafar Salman

Al-Farahidi Expert Systems Journal

Credit risk assessment for customers represents one of the core foundations that support the stability of the financial system and promote sustainable economic growth. It plays a crucial role in guiding financing decisions within financial institutions by enabling the evaluation of customers’ ability to assume and manage financial risk. This capability enhances the efficiency of resource allocation and contributes to achieving a balanced approach between economic development and institutional financial safety.

However, the process of credit risk assessment is inherently complex due to the interplay of numerous factors, including customers’ financial indicators and behavioral attributes. This complexity necessitates the use …

Asasy: A Sentiment Analysis Corpus Of Syrian Dialect Facebook Posts, Azab Ahmad, Majd Ali

Al-Farahidi Expert Systems Journal

A massive amount of textual data is shared each day through the different social media platforms. Analyzing this data to understand the sentiment of users (positive, negative, natural) about various topics and products is a challenging task when it comes to analyze Arabic text due to the morphological diversity and complex grammatical structure of this language, and is more challenging when analyzing social media text with the great diversity in writing style and dialects. Due to the lack of Arabic resources for Sentiment Analysis and the increasing need to create dialectical resources. In this paper, we present a Syrian dialectical …

How The Coherent Detector Works In Spread Spectrum Signals, Louay Habib Skef, Aymen Mohammed Khodayer, Jenan J. Abdulkareem

Al-Farahidi Expert Systems Journal

This research investigates the detection of direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) signals, comparing the performance of a traditional energy detector with that of a cross-correlation detector. While energy detectors are widely used, they suffer from reduced sensitivity at low signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) and require accurate noise power estimation. In contrast, the cross-correlation detector utilizes the processing gain of DSSS signals to achieve higher detection accuracy without needing prior noise estimation. Using MATLAB simulations, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were generated for both detectors. Results show that the cross-correlation detector achieves up to 30% higher probability of detection (PD) at a …

Analysis Of Exhaust Gases From Marine Propulsion Plants Using Diffraction-Based Analytical Methods, Maarouf Ahmad, Mokdad Hayawi Rahman

Al-Farahidi Expert Systems Journal

This research deals with one of the most important environmental security issues of energy production media and equipment used in the marine field, primarily marine diesel engines used to propel ships. Initially, information was collected regarding the specific standards for the quantities and components of harmful substances emitted with the exhaust gases from marine Diesel and Gase Turbin engines.

Then, modern methods for monitoring exhaust gases were reviewed, which depend on the diffraction analysis of the stream of materials present in these gases and the gas transmitters used for this purpose. The method presented in this research depends on determining …

Advancements In Intelligent Systems For Industrial Management: Enhancing Efficiency And Automation, Samir Ali Amin, Salah Sabeeh Abed Al Kareem, Laith Jaafer Habeeb

Al-Farahidi Expert Systems Journal

The modern industrial management is quite dependent on intelligent systems that promote intensifying automation and general efficiency in different industries. With the introduction of advanced technologies in form of AI, machine learning, CPS and IoT these systems move the industrial functionality to a great extent. By combining, such technologies have the ability to quickly interpret data, detect the need for maintenance early in the line and make informed decisions, which produce highly optimized manufacturing processes. Automation has automated the process, reducing costs considerably, producing more, and maintaining high standards. Development of industry 4.0 has been a major tool in coordinating …

Efficacy And Safety Of Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair (Mitraclip) Compared To Medical Therapy And Surgery In Patients With Secondary Mitral Regurgitation: A Systematic Review & Pairwise Meta-Analysis, Salma Younas, Aditya Rana, Mirza Faizan Ali Beig, Sweta Sahu, Cynthia Esohe Emanemua, Aisha Ashiq Reshie, Lamees Kaukab, Dileep Duggineni, S K S S P Ashish Gokavarapu, Padamati Bhavani, Afrasayab Khan, Peter G. Fattal

Journal of the Saudi Heart Association

Background: Secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) is a frequent complication of heart failure, associated with high morbidity and mortality. While surgery is the standard for primary MR, many SMR patients are poor surgical candidates. Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr) using the MitraClip offers a less invasive alternative, but its comparative efficacy and safety remain under active investigation and controversial. Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE®, Embase®, and the Cochrane Library was conducted per PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD420251016943). Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TMVr (MitraClip) with guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) or surgical repair in adult patients with SMR. …

The Efficacy Of Essential Oils In Promoting Youthful Skin: A Review, Diaa El Din Ashraf Hemdan, Riham A. El-Shiekh

Bulletin of Faculty of Pharmacy Cairo University

Background Skincare essential oils [EOs] are gaining recognition for their effectiveness as natural solutions to promote youthful skin. These concentrated plant extracts provide a variety of benefits, including hydration, antioxidant protection, and anti-inflammatory properties. Purpose This review highlights the potential of the most common used EOs for healthy skin. Methods The search was conducted using all available MeSH terms for anti-aging & EOs. Results Notable oils such as lavender, rose, and geranium are celebrated for their moisturizing and rejuvenating effects, making them popular choices in anti-aging skincare formulations. In addition to their hydrating properties, EOs like lemon and frankincense play …

Investigations On The Pharmacognostic Characteristics Of Capparis Species I-Lectins, Hussein Ali Hussein Al-Sa'idy, Abbas Khazaal Okab, Hussein K. Alkufi, Hayder Naji Sameer

Maaen Journal for Medical Sciences

Background: As glycoproteins widely distributed in the plants of carbohydrate binding specificity, lectins are considered macromolecules of paramount significance. Their sugar based binding dependent agglutination property nominates them for blood grouping as well as GIT complications management.

Objective: Exploring the nature, classifications, and pharmacological properties of lectins, particularly those found in Capparis species and their aqueous extracts within the last 20-25 years is the aim of this review.

Methods: This review evaluates pharmacological studies of Capparis lectins, emphasizing therapeutic effects identified through focused keyword searches.

Results: Capparis lectins and aqueous extracts exhibit diverse biological activities, including anti-rheumatic, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory, and …

Installation Characteristics In Historical Sites, Marwa Metwally

Journal of Art, Design and Music

One of the most popular artistic movements of the modern period is installation art. Numerous inspirations have been crucial in defining it and emphasizing its many facets, representing varied viewpoints and feelings pertaining to the recipient on the one hand and the artist on the other. How the artwork is interpreted artistically is also greatly influenced by its aspects and components. many historical sites represent integrated artworks that incorporate the various characteristics that constitute the art of installation art. On the one hand, they blend many forms of architecture and art, and on the other, they produce a significant cultural, …

Toward A Conceptual Framework For Iot-Driven Adaptive Spatial Design In Open-Plan Office, Sarah Mohammed El Hawary, Ola Ali Hashem, Farzad Pour Rahimian

Journal of Art, Design and Music

The evolution of workplace environments has intensified the scrutiny of open-plan offices. The design paradigm of emphasising collaboration and sense of community within workplace has celebrated its facilitation of collaboration, providing open-plan office layout as example of collaborative space. Yet it has diminished individual comfort and privacy that are strengthened in enclosed-plan office layout. Studies revealed the demand of understanding occupant’s satisfaction. Since 85%-90% of one’s time is spent in indoor environment mostly at work, occupant’s satisfaction of physical environment or surroundings should be taken into count. This article proposes a comprehensive conceptual framework that leverages Internet of Things (IoT) …

Redesign Of Ceramic Water Filters: Improving Consumer Satisfaction Towards Sustained Use In Nigeria, Ebelechukwu Ayibuofu Erhuanga

Journal of Art, Design and Music

This study sought to address the issue of limited access to clean drinking water in Nigeria and was focused on enhancing the acceptability and sustainability in the use of ceramic water filters through a user-centered redesign approach. Despite their effectiveness, low adoption rates of the filters necessitate a deeper understanding of user preferences and needs and how these impact the sustained use of the filters. The Research methods include drawing feedback from social surveys on filter users to propose and execute design improvements on aesthetics, material, and functionality. The findings reveal that consumers prioritize both ergonomics and aesthetic appeal, emphasizing …

Integrating Virtual Reality Technology Into Interior Design Education: An Experiential Study Within The United Arab Emirates, Sarah Mohammed El Hawary, Ola Ali Hashem, Farzad Pour Rahimian

Journal of Art, Design and Music

Students studying interior design can benefit from virtual reality (VR) technology, particularly when creating a digital three-dimensional (3D) model for their project. VR technology is now used in design education. VR enhances critical thinking, engagement, and spatial perception, according to several studies (Meggs et al., 2012; Akhmadi, 2024). Virtual reality aids students in comprehending spatial relationships, depth, and interior scale (Moussa and Kandil, 2024; Li and Xie, 2022). Particularly in terms of composition and proportion, design outcomes improve (Qin & Li, 2023). Learning becomes more immersive thanks to technology, which inspires students and enhances results (Som et al., 2021; Mahmarowi, …

Sustainable Materials And Emotional Durability Correlation In Interior Design, T.A. Hana El-Etr, Prof. Dr. Ola Hashem, Prof. Dr. Dalia M. Ezzat

Journal of Art, Design and Music

This paper studies the relationship between sustainable materials and emotional durability in interior design, within the Egyptian context through the case study: Galleria 40 complex. The concept of sustainability often focuses on ecological responsibility; the emotional impact to how the interior spaces affect long-term users, as well as reducing the consumption of unnecessary materials. Egypt has developed environmental rating systems such as the Green Pyramid and participated in international certifications like LEED, yet the incorporation of cultural identity with user experience in sustainable design remains limited. By tackling a mixed-method approach, involving a public survey and observational study of Galleria …

The Impact Of Egyptian Cultural Cartoons On The Child’S Culture, Sandra Ashraf Gamal Fahmy, Nagwa Yehia El Adawy, Niveen Ezzat Gamaleldien

Journal of Art, Design and Music

The field of animation has been used for years by animation companies to create cartoons, animated movies and character that is loved by adults and children and participates in teaching the viewer life lessons. The objective of the research is to illustrate the importance of creating Egyptian cartoons to educate the children about their own country, culture, beliefs and values and to decrease the impact of foreign cartoons. The research also discusses examples of well-known Egyptian cartoons and the impact they had on children. In addition to that, the research explains how the lack of Egyptian cartoons leads children to …

Digital Technology: A New Frontier For Sculpture In Urban Spaces, Muhammad Muhammad Ali Shaheen, Marwan Abdullah Hussein, Dina Radwan Mohamed Radwan

Journal of Art, Design and Music

Digital technology has transformed the field of sculpture by expanding creative possibilities and redefining the relationship between form, space, and audience. This research explores how contemporary sculptors employ digital tools—such as virtual modeling, 3D design, and digital media—to create innovative works in open urban spaces. These technologies have enabled the development of kinetic and interactive sculptures that respond to environmental stimuli or viewer interaction, enhancing public engagement and allowing for more complex, large-scale, and conceptually rich works. . The research is based on a descriptive analytical approach, which examines the intersection of the creative talent of the sculptor designer with …

A Methodology To Stimulate Students' Thinking To Design Furniture Using Artificial Intelligence Tools, Ola Ali Hashem

Journal of Art, Design and Music

This study proposes an innovative methodology to enhance creativity and critical thinking in furniture design education by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) tools with narrative literature from renowned Egyptian novels—rich in cultural, historical, and philosophical themes—to inspire design. Meanwhile, AI facilitates idea generation, rapid prototyping, and problem-solving. The methodology combines qualitative literary analysis with AI-assisted design techniques, fostering innovation in teaching culturally responsive and emotionally engaging furniture design. The research aimed to address students’ challenges in articulating ideas through manual sketching or complex design software by leveraging generative AI tools to translate insights from literary narratives into innovative furniture design concepts. …

Design Methodologies And Their Relation To Computational Design Under The View Of Artificial Intelligence, Randa Ahmed Mostafa, Omar Elkurdi, Salwa El Gharib

Journal of Art, Design and Music

This Research aims to study the relationship between design methodologies and computational design in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This is a thorough comparative discussion between the traditional design methodologies and how AI driven computational designing is remoulding the way designs are made. Flowcharts detail principal processes and tables show the comparison between methodologies, AIbased tools in order to be able to provide an overview on how the synergy is shared by them both. The ethical considerations, and the thorny issues that are arising, which also speak to this more complex world of design in the age of AI. …

The Impact Of Interior Architecture On Improving The Quality Of Life In Residential Spaces, Khaled M. Zaki Hawas

Journal of Art, Design and Music

The importance of interior architecture lies in its ability to improve the user experience by treating residential spaces in better ways, and improving the internal environment so that it is harmonious and consistent with its purposes. Among the new trends in interior architecture, a new concept is rapidly making its way to the surface: "Wellbeing Living" or "Good Living", which is concerned with residential well-being and the need to organize spaces so that the cognitive response of the individual is responsible for a more balanced personal life and better functioning. Interior Architecture and Quality of Life (QoL) – are two …

Properties Of Shape Memory Alloys In Solving Design Problems, Aya Mahmoud Ad-El Gawad Gouda

Journal of Art, Design and Music

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of materials that possess the ability to return to a predefined shape when subjected to specific thermal or mechanical stimuli. This property, known as the "shape memory effect," arises from the transformation between two phases: the low-temperature martensite phase and the high-temperature austenite phase. SMAs have gained significant attention in various engineering fields, particularly in solving complex design problems that require materials with the ability to undergo reversible deformation. These alloys exhibit exceptional properties such as high strength, elasticity, and the ability to absorb significant amounts of energy, which make them ideal …

Influence Of Clothes Reuse On Teenagers' Wear Sustainability, Tariq M. Zagloul, Amira A. Elnawasany, Naglaa M. Teama

Journal of Art, Design and Music

This research contributes to the reuse of used clothes to produce clothes for teenagers, as they are in a stage in where rapid physical changes occur. So, they need a quick change in clothing sizes. As fashion changes, the life cycle of clothes ends, which leads to a lot of clothes being wasted without benefit. Consumers dispose of clothes in ways that are not safe for the environment. In this study, three design collections were prepared for different types of used clothes to reuse them and produce clothing for teenagers from 11 to 14 years old, with the addition of …

Hurricane Helene, One Year Later: Lived Experience, Geraldine A. Miller

Journal of Appalachian Health

Ashe County is located in the northwestern corner of North Carolina (NC), bordered by Virginia and Tennessee. The county is isolated, mountainous, and historically has lacked good highway access. Hurricane Helene, a category 4 hurricane at landfall, struck Western NC on September 27, 2024, resulting in flooding and wind damage that destroyed local communities in terms of land, homes, bridges, water, electricity, etc. with a damage of $59.6 billion.⁶ One year later, the recovery from the hurricane continues draining individuals and communities of their time, energy, and money. Geri Miller reflects on her hurricane impact experiences a year later. …

Associations Between Social Media Usage, Physical Activity And Flourishing In Rural University Students, Anna Dysart, Minu Sara Thomas

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: Most adolescents and young adults report significant use of social media.^1-3 However, there is limited research on the effect of social media use, specifically on physical activity and flourishing.

Purpose: This pilot research study examines the correlation between social media usage and the physical activity and flourishing levels of college students at a rural university in Appalachia.

Methods: The authors conducted a survey including the validated Secure Flourishing Index and Stanford Leisure-Time Activity Categorical Item, containing questions on social media use and demographics. Spearman’s rho was used for nonparametric correlations. Pearson’s correlation was used to determine the correlation …

Impact Of West Virginia Abortion Ban On West Virginia Physician Trainee Practice Intentions, Rebecca Wald, Kristy Ward, Sarah Dotson

Journal of Appalachian Health

In June 2022, the Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned the constitutional right to abortion established by Roe vs. Wade. Shortly after, West Virginia (WV) began enforcing a near total ban on abortion. Statewide restrictions on access to reproductive health care have important implications for the recruitment and retention of physicians. This project aimed to determine overall awareness of the 2022 changes in abortion laws among physician trainees, and whether the law influenced the intention of resident/fellow physicians to practice medicine in the state following completion of their medical training. A total of 178 resident and fellow physicians at …

Impact Of A Workshop On Rural Healthcare Delivery On Medical Student Attitudes, Robert L. Snedegar, Ryan Hayes, Jun Xiang, Treah Haggerty, Kendra Unger, Jason Oreskovich, Amie M. Ashcraft

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: Rural residents in the United States (U.S.) experience significant health disparities due to social determinants such as poverty, geographic isolation, and limited healthcare access. Physician shortages in rural areas further exacerbate these challenges.

Purpose: This study evaluates the impact of an educational workshop on medical students’ attitudes toward rural healthcare barriers, aiming to determine whether targeted education can enhance their understanding and interest in rural practice.

Methods: Third-year medical students at the West Virginia University School of Medicine participated in a workshop that included a 20-minute pre-recorded lecture and a 90-minute interactive virtual session. Pre- and post-surveys assessed students’ …

Leveraging Community Health Worker’S Deep Community Knowledge To Address Food And Nutrition Security In Appalachia, Alexis Kimbro Scott, Melissa D. Olfert, Dawn Brewer, Makenzie Barr, Julie Plasencia

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: Community health workers (CHWs) are trusted professionals in communities because of the deep understanding and cultural insights learned from their lived experiences. In Appalachia, CHWs are embedded in the community, giving them a unique understanding of how social determinants, like food and nutrition security, impact health outcomes.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the professional characteristics and knowledge of CHWs while identifying culturally sensitive practices around food insecurity.

Methods: This cross-sectional, mixed-methods study used an online survey and in-depth phone interviews with CHWs in the Appalachian Region to examine their professional characteristics and knowledge on food security in their …

Stigmatization And Healthcare Inequity Perceived By Individuals Served By Homeless Shelters In An Appalachian City, Molly Powney, James M. Mears, Reagan Sharp, Lisa Calderwood

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: People experiencing homelessness are medically vulnerable and suffer disproportionately from chronic physical and mental health conditions. Evidence-based standards to inform decisions surrounding care would be valuable for this population. Studies exploring how homeless individuals in Appalachia perceive their interactions with the healthcare system remain limited, however.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess perceptions of the healthcare system among homeless individuals served by temporary housing shelters in an Appalachian city.

Methods: A voluntary anonymous survey was administered to residents at three shelters in Charleston, West Virginia (WV) from September 2023 – March 2024. Responses were collected utilizing …

Geospatial Analysis Of Breast Cancer Incidence, Mortality, And Access To Screening In Rural And Appalachian Virginia, Jennifer Osher, Caleb Brown, Phillip Nichols, Tariq Ayubi, Jeremy Powers

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women in the United States (U.S.), despite recent survival rates improving nationally. However, rural and Appalachian regions have experienced slower mortality declines. These communities face unique health care-related challenges that may contribute to observed disparities.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess differences in breast cancer incidence, mortality, and mortality-to-incidence ratio (MIR) between Appalachian and non-Appalachian counties, as well as rural and non-rural counties in Virginia (VA). Furthermore, we aim to evaluate whether availability of mammography is associated with these differences.

Methods: County-level breast cancer incidence and mortality data …

Influence Of Family Health History And Parental Education On Body Mass Index, Blood Pressure, And Lipid Levels In 5th Grade Children: A Secondary Data Analysis Of The Cardiac Project, Madha Rani Das, Lee A. Plyes, Eloise Elliott, Christa L. Lilly

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: Childhood obesity and related cardiovascular risks reflect the interplay of genetic predispositions and socioeconomic adversity. Appalachia’s poverty, limited health care, and educational gaps worsen family health risks, driving early cardio-metabolic problems in children, highlighting the need for effective interventions.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the association of family health history and parental education with BMI, BP, and lipid profiles among 5^th grade children in West Virginia (WV).

Methods: The study used WV CARDIAC data from 2006–2009. Outcomes were BMI, SBP/DBP, and fasting lipids (HDL, LDL, TG). Predictors were parental education and family health history …

Understanding Breastfeeding Practices In Tennessee: Goals, Duration, And Reasons For Discontinuation, Amir Alakaam, Chia-Lin Chang, Hannah Jeffery

Journal of Appalachian Health

Introduction: Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal source of infant nutrition, offering many health benefits.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine goals, exclusivity, and duration of breastfeeding and explore factors that influence breastfeeding practices among individuals in Tennessee (TN).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals (N = 1,249). Participants were recruited and data were collected from June – September 2021. The data were entered and analyzed from September 2022 – March 2023. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and ANOVA were used to analyze the data and identify associations between variables.

Results: About 32% of the …