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At least 253 records · Page 14Linked to original sources

Rough sets: a knowledge discovery technique for multifactorial medical outcomes.

Rough sets is a fairly new and promising technique for data mining and knowledge discovery from databases. This tutorial article presents the fundamentals of rough set theory in a nontechnical manner and outlines how the technique can be used to extract minimal if-then rules from tables of empirical data that either fully or approximately describe given example classifications. An example application for prediction of ambulation for patients with spinal cord injury is given. Because such rules are readily interpretable, they can be inspected to yield possible new insight into how various contributing factors interact and, thus, serve as hypothesis generators for further research. Additionally, the set of mined rules may function as a classifier of new, unseen cases.

Data Interpretation, Statistical↗

Analysis of uterine contractions: a dynamical approach.

The development of suitable techniques for quantifying mechanical and electrophysiological aspects of uterine contractions has been an active area of research. The uterus is a physiological system consisting of a large number of interacting muscle cells. The activity of these cells evolves with time, a trait characteristic of a dynamical system. While such complex physiological systems are non-linear by their very nature, whether this non-linearity is exhibited in the external recording is far from trivial. Traditional techniques such as spectral analysis have been used in the past, but these techniques implicitly assume that the process generating the contractions is linear and hence may be biased. In this tutorial review, a systematic approach using a hierarchy of surrogate algorithms is used to determine the nature of the process generating the contractions produced during labor. The results reveal that uterine contractions are probably generated by non-linear processes. The contraction segments were obtained through simultaneous recordings of the electrical and magnetic signals corresponding to the electrophysiological activity of the uterus and then analyzed. The electrical activity was recorded by placement of non-invasive electrodes onto the maternal abdomen and magnetic activity was recorded non-invasively using a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID).

Algorithms↗

Tutorial dynamics and participation in small groups: a student perspective in a multicultural setting.

AIM: This study investigated the language and cultural backgrounds of medical students, and explored their perspectives of the influences on student participation in small-group tutorial settings. METHOD: A task group of students and staff from a variety of cultural backgrounds designed a cross-sectional survey using an anonymous questionnaire. The survey was conducted at the Christchurch School of Medicine and Health Sciences (a campus of the University of Otago). Students attending a 4th-year and a 5th-year lecture were invited to participate. RESULTS: Seventy-five percent of students enrolled in the medical course responded to the survey. Half of the sample self-identified as New Zealand European or Maori. Sixty-four percent of students identified English as their first language. Ninety-one percent of students stated a preference for small-group tutorials rather than lectures. Most students reported that there was a 'lack of prior preparation' by students in these tutorials (no statistically significant difference between students with English as first or second language). Two thirds of students (66%) students felt there was a lack of full participation in small-group teaching. Personality, cultural, and language differences were perceived as contributing factors to the lack of participation. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of participation should not be assumed to be due to language difficulties. Barriers to participation are perceived differently by students from a variety of language and cultural backgrounds. Moreover, interactions between students who dominate and under-participate may influence student participation. Further research is needed to determine whether language and cultural backgrounds affect students' participation in small group teaching.

Asian People↗

Computer-aided instruction as a part of an undergraduate programme in anaesthesia.

Medical students should learn certain facts and comprehension of these facts during an elective month spent in a Department of Anaesthesia. This enables them to make the most of the tutorial situation in which they work with clinical anaesthetists. Pre- and post-elective multiple choice questions were used to test the efficacy of computer based non-linear programmes of multiple choice questions and explanations in adding to the students' knowledge. They were associated with an improvement in student performance and were acceptable to students and instructors. However, computer based instruction should only be used to improve certain learning situations and should not be employed as an alternative to interaction with physicians and patients.

Alberta↗

Computer-assisted learning using a dialogue system for virtual teacher-student communication.

Over the past decade, computer-assisted learning in the field of chemistry has given rise to a large number of systems that approach this objective from different viewpoints: static courses aimed at specific concepts, tutorial systems, 2D and 3D virtual environments, and so on. Correct structuring and representation of the knowledge to be taught, the building of a suitable student interface, and the adaptation of the learning process to the knowledge of the student are but a few of the challenges to be faced in the development of efficient computer-assisted learning systems. The present study tackles the use of computerized dialogue systems as a viable alternative for the simulation of teacher-student interaction and proposes an ontology for the characterization of such interaction, employing the object-oriented paradigm in the modeling of both the knowledge to be taught and the actual level of the student. The proposed solution is based on the representation of the knowledge to be taught through a network of multiconnected knowledge frames (chunks), where each chunk may be specialized in more specific frames (prerequisites and subobjectives), contain associated explanations of varying complexity and with a range of explanatory models, and be associated with one or a set of possible questions the student might ask; to this end, a constantly evolving knowledge model is maintained throughout the explanatory process. Based on the proposed model, Java was used to develop and manage an explanatory system that could be used in any type of teaching system based on student-dominated dialogues. Here, the system has been applied to the teaching of chemistry laboratory practice by its integration into the Virtual Chemistry Laboratory (VCL), a system designed by the authors to simulate chemistry techniques in a virtual 3D world.

Journal Article↗

Three-dimensional modeling for functional analysis of cardiac images: a review.

Three-dimensional (3-D) imaging of the heart is a rapidly developing area of research in medical imaging. Advances in hardware and methods for fast spatio-temporal cardiac imaging are extending the frontiers of clinical diagnosis and research on cardiovascular diseases. In the last few years, many approaches have been proposed to analyze images and extract parameters of cardiac shape and function from a variety of cardiac imaging modalities. In particular, techniques based on spatio-temporal geometric models have received considerable attention. This paper surveys the literature of two decades of research on cardiac modeling. The contribution of the paper is three-fold: 1) to serve as a tutorial of the field for both clinicians and technologists, 2) to provide an extensive account of modeling techniques in a comprehensive and systematic manner, and 3) to critically review these approaches in terms of their performance and degree of clinical evaluation with respect to the final goal of cardiac functional analysis. From this review it is concluded that whereas 3-D model-based approaches have the capability to improve the diagnostic value of cardiac images, issues as robustness, 3-D interaction, computational complexity and clinical validation still require significant attention.

Diagnostic Imaging↗

MIST VR. A laparoscopic surgery procedures trainer and evaluator.

The key bimanual instrument tasks involved in laparoscopic surgery have been abstracted for use in a virtual reality surgical skills evaluator and trainer. The trainer uses two laparoscopic instruments mounted on a frame with position sensors which provide instrument movement data that is translated into interactive real time graphics on a PC (P133, 16 Mb RAM, graphics acceleration card). An accurately scaled operating volume of 10 cm3 is represented by a 3D cube on the computer screen. "Camera" position and size of target objects can be varied for different skill levels. Targets appear randomly within the operating volume according to the skill task and can be grasped and manipulated with the instruments. Accuracy and errors during the tasks and time to completion are logged. Mist VR has tutorial, training, examination, analysis and configuration modes. Six tasks have been selected and include combinations of instrument approach, target acquisition, target manipulation and placement, transfer between instruments, target contact with optional diathermy, and controlled instrument withdrawal/replacement. Tasks can be configured for varying degrees of difficulty and the configurations saved to a library for reuse. Specific task configurations can be assigned to individual students. In the examination mode the supervisor can select the tasks, repetitions and order and save to a specific file for that trainee. Progress can be assessed and there is the option for playback of the training session or examination. Data analyses permit overall, including task, and right or left hand performances to be quantified. Mist VR represents a significant advance over the subjective assessment of training performances with existing "plastic box" basic trainers.

Computer-Assisted Instruction↗

INCA: synonymous codon usage analysis and clustering by means of self-organizing map.

UNLABELLED: INteractive Codon usage Analysis (INCA) provides an array of features useful in analysis of synonymous codon usage in whole genomes. In addition to computing codon frequencies and several usage indices, such as 'codon bias', effective Nc and CAI, the primary strength of INCA has numerous options for the interactive graphical display of calculated values, thus allowing visual detection of various trends in codon usage. Finally, INCA includes a specific unsupervised neural network algorithm, the self-organizing map, used for gene clustering according to the preferred utilization of codons. AVAILABILITY: INCA is available for the Win32 platform and is free of charge for academic use. For details, visit the web page http://www.bioinfo-hr.org/inca or contact the author directly. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Software is accompanied with a user manual and a short tutorial.

Algorithms↗

Problem based module for the learning of biochemistry and molecular biology of hepatitis.

A problem based module for learning the concepts and practice of biochemistry and molecular biology in the understanding of hepatitis is suggested. The components of this module are (a) triggers--which represent case presentation, investigations and management strategies in the form of small statements organized in a logical sequence to provoke hypothetico-deductive reasoning and self directed identification of learning needs by the students, (b) guidelines for student tutor interaction--for conducting the learning exercise which is in the form of small group discussions facilitated by a tutor, (c) list of learning needs-essentially to be indentified in each group, (d) list of learning objectives--to ensure the necessary learning achievement, (e) few suggestions and guidelines for learning resources and (f) an overview of the problem. This module can be modified or altered for students at different phases of the medical curriculum. The suggested module can be best implemented through 3 tutorial sessions of 2 hours each, on alternate days, supported by 2-3 resource sessions (brief interactive/didactic lectures on selected difficult areas) in between. Alternate days can be organized for practical or skill sessions along with time for student's own learning and presentation in group during the tutorial session to be held on the following day.

Curriculum↗

The AAPM/RSNA physics tutorial for residents. Physics of PET.

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a coalition of physics, chemistry, physiology, and medicine united in an effort to measure physiologic parameters noninvasively. A PET study consists of producing radiotracers, synthesizing radiopharmaceuticals from the tracers, administering the radiopharmaceutical to a patient, measuring the resulting radioactivity distribution in an organ of interest, and interpreting the activity distribution as a function of physiologic parameters. Radiotracers are produced with medical accelerators that are characterized by the amount of time required to produce a set amount of radiotracer. Radiopharmaceutical production requires automated or remote synthesis modules that are characterized by their efficiency for incorporating the radiotracer into a radiopharmaceutical and the length of time and amount of human interaction required. Imaging protocols must consider sources of image artifacts, the method by which the images will be analyzed, and the uncertainty in the final result. Each of these areas has implications for the cost of the procedure, patient comfort, and the information obtainable from the study. This article gives an overview of these areas and defines the principles that can be used to distinguish between and the consequences of different approaches.

Humans↗

Interactive videodisc to teach combat trauma life support.

Training military physicians in trauma management is a dilemma in peacetime, since there are few opportunities to gain clinical experience within the military care system. This program provides experience in clinical decision making through case simulation. Five cases, of increasing difficulty, are presented in a single videodisc side. The program is implemented on a system based on the IBM PC, and is written in the C programming language. The program emphasizes clinical realism by providing many clinical options at each decision point, and by audiovisually depicting combat clinical care in very realistic ways. The user interface is flexible and, though complex, is easy to use; it is supported by a narrated, on-line tutorial.

Computer-Assisted Instruction↗

[New paths for Internet generated learning in anatomy].

For the purposes of a functioning information and knowledge based medicine the conditions for the medical education are crucial. Although multimedia based courses and tutorials via the Internet seem to serve best for a more effective teaching and new didactics, respective anatomical offers in Germany are scarce and thus practice and experience are limited. Only simple digital equivalents of conventional contents and methods can be found, whereas the potencies of the new media are not realized in didactic concepts. Substantial advantages of web based tutorial systems are an intensive use of the feedback possibilities, the opportunity for continuous updating of the contents, the favourable distribution, and faster utilization of improved techniques. This paper introduces the adaptation of different techniques and the development of concepts and notions of modern Internet based teaching by the way of three different events in anatomical education for medical students and doctors. HistoNet 2000 was developed as an interface of lectures, seminars and practical courses in microscopy. The online transmission of a microscopical course as an interactive practical teleteaching was performed by the way of asymmetric data transfer via the ADSL-technology. Multicasting was used as well and has also been applied for the third project. In this multimedial online teaching different specialties were joined together for interdisciplinary courses via the Internet. These new technologies lead to enhanced efficiency in teaching and enlarge the educational offer. Specific Internet adapted teaching and learning projects have to be developed.

Anatomy↗

Behavioural awareness, interaction and counselling education in audiological rehabilitation: development of methods and application in a pilot study.

In conventional audiological rehabilitation, the hearing therapist interacts with the hearing-impaired person and with significant others. In order to strengthen the personality and self-confidence of the hearing-impaired individual, a different strategy was designed and implemented whereby the pedagogic interaction was directed only towards the hearing-impaired individual, who in turn worked as a tutor/aid/counsellor to the communication partner. On the basis of an interactive communication model, new methods for rehabilitation of subjects with moderate hearing impairment were developed and evaluated in a pilot study on 13 men with noise-induced hearing loss. A course programme was developed with three main active components: (1) increased insight and knowledge; (2) education as counsellors with the ability to focus on the problems of the communication partner; and (3) motivation to change through group discussion and reflexive conversation. Increased insight and knowledge were obtained through test and training experiences in a sound environmental chamber, tutorials and discussions. The pedagogic training focused on helping the hearing-impaired subjects to become able communication counsellors in relation to their interlocutors. An act-react, offensive-defensive paradigm was used in conjunction with transactional analysis. Results of the pilot study were evaluated using questionnaires, interviews and a method of dialogue analysis. The results were evaluated for the hearing-impaired and the partner and in recordings of conversations in the home environment. There were clearly positive cognitive and emotional effects seen in the inquiries and interviews. The observations from the dialogue analysis indicated only small effects, with the exception of the two individuals with the most pronounced functional impairment, for whom dialogue was improved after the course. It was concluded that these new methods could contribute new possibilities in rehabilitation programmes, emphasizing the shared responsibility for communication and the unique competence and abilities of the hearing-impaired person.

Awareness↗

A simple interactive teaching aid for medical undergraduates studying the brachial plexus.

In an era where the methods and time dedicated to the teaching of human anatomy are changing within medical curricula worldwide it behoves anatomists to devise alternative strategies to effectively teach the discipline to medical students. Most medical curricula would necessitate that students learn the innervation of the upper limb and therefore would be expected to understand the concepts of root values, trunks, divisions, cords and branches of the brachial plexus. In order to aid this process the author has designed a very simple teaching aid that has had universal student approval. The model, constructed from perforated pin board, wood and coloured wires, is designed to be an adjunct to prosection or dissection-based practical classes, tutorials and didactic lectures. The aim of this short paper is to describe this teaching aid and its value in transmitting important anatomical concepts to medical undergraduates. The usefulness of the model is not restricted to medical teaching but may also prove valuable in anatomical studies undertaken by paramedical disciplines and science students.

Audiovisual Aids↗

The octavolateralis system and Mauthner cell: interactions and questions.

This paper is an overview of some of the major points to arise in the accompanying contributions of this special symposium issue. The symposium papers arose out of discussions among investigators interested in the inner ear and Mauthner cell, with the focus on hydrodynamic components that activate the Mauthner cell through the octavolateralis system. The intention of the symposium was to investigate the possibility of using our knowledge of the Mauthner system to help understand acoustic processing by the ear, and of using our knowledge of fish hearing to better understand Mauthner cell function. This is the first attempt to take a broad look at both systems to see how they might function together. As such, these proceedings can serve as a mini-tutorial for investigators interested in one system or the other. In this summary paper we also identify some of the major uncertainties in our understanding of the ear-Mauthner connection. These include questions about: (1) the identity of the acoustic stimuli that are neuroethologically relevant to the Mauthner system; (2) the relative importance of the various octavolateralis inputs (acoustic, vestibular, or lateral line); (3) the contribution of the different various acoustic endorgans to the Mauthner system; (4) whether the Mauthner system can distinguish sound source location, and (5) whether Mauthner neurobiology is compatible with the prevailing model (the phase model) for determining sound source location by fishes. We believe these issues provide potentially useful avenues of future investigation that should give important insights in both acoustic processing by fish and the function of the mauthner system.

Animals↗

Development of multimedia learning modules for teaching human anatomy: application to osteology and functional anatomy.

Computer-assisted learning (CAL) is growing quickly within academic programs. Although the anatomical commercial packages that are available for this learning have attractive advantages, they also have drawbacks: they are frequently not in the local language of the students, they do not perfectly answer the needs of the local academic program, and their cost is frequently more than students can afford. This study describes a relatively inexpensive method to create CAL tutorials, whose content can be fully customized to local academic needs in terms of both program and language. The study describes its use in creating multimedia learning modules (MLMs) about Osteology and joint kinematics. The pedagogical content in these modules was collected from objective experiments to give students the opportunity to access new scientific knowledge during their education. It can be replaced, as desired, by almost any content due to the flexibility of the production method. Each MLM consists of two complementary subelements: a multimedia theoretical lecture and a three-dimensional interactive laboratory. Such MLMs are in use at both the University of Brussels (ULB) and the National University of Rwanda (NUR). The development of this work was part of the VAKHUM project, and the pedagogical validation is currently being performed as part of the MULTIMOD project.

Anatomy↗

Computer programs that teach the interpretation of image-based laboratory tests.

OBJECTIVE: To review the effort of the University of Washington (UW) Department of Laboratory Medicine to develop and use personal computer programs to teach the interpretation of image-based clinical laboratory tests to medical technologists and other health care workers. DATA SOURCES: Professional journals and books; Software owned by and licensed by the University of Washington. STUDY SELECTION: Not applicable. DATA EXTRACTION: Not applicable. DATA SYNTHESIS: We have been developing interactive personal computer (PC) programs for teaching image-based laboratory tests to medical technologists and other health care workers. The programs, called "Laboratory Tutors," are useful for teaching microscope-based tests and tests based on electrophoresis. Our programs include ANA-Tutor, which teaches the immunofluorescence assay for anti-nuclear antibodies; Gram Stain-Tutor, which teaches the direct Gram stain; Electrophoresis-Tutor, which teaches the interpretation of agarose gel protein electrophoretic patterns; Urinalysis-Tutor, which teaches the microscopic examination of urine sediment; in addition to other programs. The tutorials are all based on high-quality digital images that were acquired and processed using digital imaging systems. They require minimal computer literacy and have a number of advantages over standard approaches to teaching image-based laboratory tests. The computer tutorials are used in UW's medical technology and medical school curriculum, where they are used as supplements to traditional instruction. CONCLUSION: Laboratory tutors are computer programs that use high resolution digital images to teach the interpretation of image-based laboratory tests. We plan to continue to develop these programs, study their educational effectiveness, and update them periodically.

Clinical Laboratory Information Systems↗

Cardiology education using hypermedia and digital imagery.

A computer-based educational system for the study of cardiovascular imaging is described. This system, based on HyperCard * and a standard Macintosh II, integrates hypertext retrieval, computer graphics, sound, and medical images into a single interactive environment stored on a standard hard disk. This 'hypermedia' approach allows arbitrary complexity coupled with direct, immediate, easy traversal of the images and related text, which provides the opportunity for students to move at their own pace, choose their own direction through the material and repeat as often as desired. Storage on magnetic medium allows for easy updating with new studies and material in order to keep pace with advances in medical imaging technology. The system could be mastered onto CD-ROM for ease of distribution if so desired. The system includes a tutorial on the basics of digital image representation and example studies from cineangiography, nuclear medicine, echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging of the heart. Quantitative techniques for evaluation of left ventricular function are explained using computer graphics overlays on the original medical images. Color encoded functional images are also included as an aid to visualization of ventricular performance data. The system has proven useful as a primer for digital imaging in cardiology prior to specific case study in a traditional mentor relationship.

CD-ROM↗