Computer-based Simulation Research Articles

Insights of Life Molecules' Dynamic Distribution in Live Cells via Sequence-Structure Bispecific Fluorescent RNA.

Life molecules' distributions in live systems construct the complex dynamic reaction networks, whereas it is still challenging to demonstrate the dynamic distributions of biomolecules in live systems. Herein, we proposed a dynamic analysis strategy via sequence-structure bispecific RNA with state-adjustable molecules to monitor the dynamic concentration and spatiotemporal localization of these biomolecules in live cells based on the new insight of fluorescent RNA (FLRNA) interactions and their mechanism of fluorescence enhancement. Typically, computer-based nucleic acid-molecular docking simulation and molecular theoretical calculation have been proposed to provide a simple and straightforward method for guiding the custom-design of FLRNA. Impressively, a novel FLRNA with sequence and structure bispecific RNA named as a structure-switching aptamer (SSA) was introduced to monitor the real-time concentration and spatiotemporal localization of biomolecules, contributing to a deeper insight of the dynamic monitoring and visualization of biomolecules in live systems.

A quality improvement initiative to increase adult ECMO decision-making abilities in a perfusion education program: The use of 3D ECMO simulation.

Adult and pediatric ECMO procedures have been increasingly established as conventional life-saving modalities in critical care services across the world. Since 2017, a multidisciplinary team of program advisors for our perfusion education program have aimed to increase cardiovascular perfusion (CVP) student ECMO exposure and improve clinical decision-making. In this QI intervention, the use of 3D computer-based simulation was assessed in establishing a standardized process to improve the diagnosis and treatment of adult ECMO complications among first year CVP students. The Califia 3D Patient Simulator was incorporated into the curriculum for first year CVP students (n = 26) along with traditional lecture for the adult ECMO complication laboratory session. Pre-class knowledge assessments using de-identified polling software were compared to post-class assessments following the first assigned learning activity. Assessments from students that received simulation before lecture (SIM, n = 15) were compared to students receiving lecture before simulation (LEC, n = 11). User experience questionnaires (UEQ) consisting of 26 questions for six scales of simulation instruction were administered to measure the comprehensive impression of the student experience. Overall median [IQR] pre- and -post knowledge assessment scores were 74% [11] and 84% [11], respectively (p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in pre-class assessment scores between the SIM and LEC groups (74.0% and 74.0%, respectively, p = 0.959). The LEC group achieved higher median post-assessment scores than the SIM group (84% vs 79%, p = 0.032). Among the 26 UEQ survey scales, 23 were positively evaluated (>0.8), and three were a neutral evaluation (-0.8 to 0.8). Cronbach Alpha-Coefficients of >0.78 were measured for attractiveness, perspicuity, efficacy, and stimulation. The coefficient for dependability was 0.37. 25 (96.2%) students indicated that 3D simulation was beneficial to improving ECMO clinical decision-making. In this QI intervention, the implementation of computer-based 3D simulation following lecture was perceived by learners to help improve the diagnosis and treatment of ECMO-related complications.

Reconstructing the earliest known composite-tiled roofs from the Chinese Loess Plateau

The origins of composite tiles, one of the oldest forms of roofing, are still unclear. This study is based on a set of over 5000 clay tile fragments excavated from a single context in the Qiaocun site on the Chinese Loess Plateau, dated to ~ 2400–2200 BCE (Early Longshan Period). By combining morphological measurement statistics, 3D modeling, computer-based simulations, and reference to historical and archaeological records, we reconstruct the earliest known composite-tile roofing techniques and demonstrate that tile production was under a low-level standardization, with manual control forming a key agent during the roofing process. The quantitative study of the composite roof tiles from Qiaocun was then placed in its archaeological context and compared with other sites on the Loess Plateau. It was found that tile-roofed buildings were, by necessity, community projects. Such structures served as nodes in larger social communication networks; additionally, their appearance was linked to intensified social complexity in public affairs during the Longshan Period. The invention of clay tiles was associated with the inception of thick rammed-earth walls which had sufficient strength to serve as load-bearing structures for heavy tiled roofs. The roof tiles excavated from Qiaocun site indicate that the Loess Plateau was a key center for the origin and spread of composite tiles and related roofing and construction methods, suggesting a Longshan–Western Zhou tradition of roofing techniques in East Asia.

Potential Barriers to the Implementation of Computer-Based Simulation in Pharmacy Education: A Systematic Review.

Computer-based simulation (CBS) is an interactive pedagogical training method that has seen increased interest, especially in recent years. There is some evidence that CBS in pharmacy education is not as widely adopted compared to other healthcare disciplines. Pharmacy education literature to date has not specifically discussed the potential barriers which may cause this uptake challenge. In this systematic narrative review, we attempted to explore and discuss potential barriers that may impact the integration of CBS in pharmacy practice education and provide our suggestions to overcome them. We searched five major databases and used the AACODS checklist for grey literature assessment. We identified 42 studies and four grey literature reports, published between 1 January 2000 and 31 August 2022, which met the inclusion criteria. Then, the specific approach of Braun and Clarke for thematic analysis was followed. The majority of the included articles were from Europe, North America, and Australasia. Although none of the included articles had a specific focus on barriers to implementation, thematic analysis was used to extract and discuss several potential barriers, such as resistance to change, cost, time, usability of software, meeting accreditation standards, motivating and engaging students, faculty experience, and curriculum constraints. Ad- dressing academic, process, and cultural barriers can be considered the first step in providing guidance for future implementation research for CBS in pharmacy education. The analysis suggests that to effectively overcome any possible barriers to implementing CBS, different stakeholders must engage in careful planning, collaboration, and investment in resources and training. The review indicates that additional research is required to offer evidence-based approach and strategies to prevent overwhelming or disengaging users from either learning or teaching process. It also guides further research into exploring potential barriers in different institutional cultures and regions.

Resource optimization using predictive virtual machine consolidation approach in cloud environment

The Proliferation of on-demand usage-based IT services, as well as the diverse range of cloud users, have led to the establishment of energy-hungry hefty cloud data centers. Therefore, cloud service providers are striving to reduce energy consumption for cost-saving and environmental sustainability issues of data centers. In this direction, Virtual Machine (VM) consolidated is a widely used approach to optimize hardware resources at cost of performance degradation due to unnecessary migrations. Hence, the motivation of the proposed approach is to minimize energy consumption while maintaining the performance of cloud data centers. This leads to a reduction in the overall cost and an increase in the reliability of cloud service providers. To achieve this goal Predictive Virtual Machine Consolidation (PVMC) algorithm is proposed using the exponential smoothing moving average (ESMA) method. In the proposed algorithm, the ratio of deviation to utilization is calculated for VM selection and placement. migrating the high CPU using VMs or we can restrict steady resource-consuming VMs from migration. The outcomes of the proposed algorithm are validated on computer-based simulation under a dynamic workload and a variable number of VMs (1–290). The experimental results show an improvement in the mean threshing index (40%, 45%) and instruction energy ratio (15%, 17%) over the existing policies. Hence, the proposed algorithm could be used in real-world data centers for reducing energy consumption while maintaining low service level agreement violations.

Trends and Challenges of Technology-Enhanced Learning in Geotechnical Engineering Education

The integration of technology and new tools in engineering education has created opportunities for the advancement of geotechnical engineering education (GEE). Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) has been implemented in GEE by many educators, and its impacts have been studied by different researchers. This review paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the state-of-the-art implementation of TEL in GEE based on published journal articles. This study adopts a systematic approach in examining the literature on TEL in GEE, identifies emerging trends and challenges, presents potential solutions, and outlines research gaps and recommendations. The literature indicates that, over the past couple of decades, the major trends of TEL in GEE have included computer-based simulations and computations, physical and centrifuge modeling, virtual laboratory and field experimentation, internet-based online resources, and virtual and augmented reality. The implementation of TEL in GEE can support students in effectively comprehending complex engineering concepts and augment their preparedness for the demands of professional practice. Furthermore, the integration of TEL with instructional design strategies involving problem-based learning, experiential learning, collaborative learning, and critical thinking cultivation is recognized as a favorable strategy. However, challenges such as a lack of resources and experience, optimization of pedagogies, alignment with course content, and quantification of TEL’s impact on GEE and student learning experiences remain to be addressed by continuing research and development in this field. In addition, an outcome-based education (OBE) theory-inspired quadruple framework is proposed in this study for the efficient implementation of TEL in GEE.

EFFECTS OF COMPUTER-BASED SIMULATIONS AND VIDEO INSTRUCTIONAL PACKAGES ON THE ATTITUDE OF SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL PHYSICS STUDENTS IN OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

The study examined the effect of Computer-Based Simulations (CBSs) or Video Instructional Package (VIP) on secondary school students’ attitude towards Physics in Osun State, Nigeria. It also determined if there are interactions between student’s sex and the effects of CBSs or VIP on the students’ attitude towards Physics. The study adopted pretest, posttest, control group quasi-experimental design. One hundred and thirteen senior secondary school Physics students were selected from all the Physics students in the senior secondary schools in Osun State using a multistage sampling procedure. The students were grouped into two experimental groups and one control. Physics Students’ Attitude Questionnaire (PSAQ) was used for data gathering. The content validity ratio (α = 1) was obtained for the instrument and Split half method was used to determine the reliability of the instrument and Spearman-Brown coefficient r = 0.86 was obtained for its reliability. Analysis of data showed no significant difference in the attitude of the students irrespective of the method of instruction (F(2,110) = 1.17 ; p > 0.05). The finding also showed no significant interaction between sex and the effects of CBSs or VIP on the students’ attitude towards Physics (F(2,112) = 0.25 ; p > 0.05). The study concluded both Computer Based Simulations and Video Instructional Package had the same effects on secondary school students’ attitude towards Physics and also sex did not significantly intervene on the effects of CBSs or VIP on secondary school students’ attitude towards Physics.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0009/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

A mixed methods systematic review: In fracture surgery does computer-based simulation (CBS) develop better knowledge, skills and competencies than traditional preparation?

A mixed methods systematic review: In fracture surgery does computer-based simulation (CBS) develop better knowledge, skills and competencies than traditional preparation?

Can a Computer-based Force Feedback Hip Fracture Skills Simulator Improve Clinical Task Performance? A Cadaveric Validation Study.

This cadaveric study seeks to determine whether skills acquired on the simulator translate to improved performance of the clinical task. We hypothesized that completion of simulator training modules would improve performance of percutaneous hip pinning. Eighteen right-handed medical students from two academic institutions were randomized: trained (n = 9) and untrained (n = 9). The trained group completed nine simulator-based modules of increasing difficulty, designed to teach techniques of placing wires in an inverted triangle construct in a valgus-impacted femoral neck fracture. The untrained group had a brief simulator introduction but did not complete the modules. Both groups received a hip fracture lecture, an explanation and pictorial reference of an inverted triangle construct, and instruction on using the wire driver. Participants then placed three 3.2 mm guidewires in cadaveric hips in an inverted triangle construct under fluoroscopy. Wire placement was evaluated with CT at 0.5 mm sections. The trained group significantly outperformed the untrained group in most parameters (P ≤ 0.05). The results suggest that a force feedback simulation platform with simulated fluoroscopic imaging using an established, increasingly difficult series of motor skills training modules has potential to improve clinical performance and might offer an important adjunct to traditional orthopaedic training.

Measuring Nursing Student Development Through Computer-Based Simulation Activities.

New nurse attrition jeopardizes patient safety, devastates career plans, and negatively impacts costs to hospitals and patients. Employers and educators recognize the widening transition-to-practice gap in meeting expectations for practice-ready, resilient nurses. The purpose of this study was to test the use of computer-based simulation activities (CBSAs) to measure processes in Aller's Development of Decision-Making and Self-Efficacy Model (ADD-SEM). BSN students (N = 50) in a multisite, cross-sectional study used CBSAs to provide data on decision making (Virtual Patient Lasater's Clinical Judgment Rubric), psychological capital (Nursing Anxiety and Self-Confidence in Decision-Making Scale©), and reflection. Repeated-measures analysis of variance and reflexive thematic analysis revealed that decision-making (DM) scores were highest in noticing and lowest in interpreting with significant differences in cohorts (DM) (juniors: P < .001; seniors: P = .013) and self-confidence/anxiety ( P < .001). The CBSAs are an effective means of measuring student development of DM and psychological capital needed to retain resilient nurses.

Synthesis of Al–Sn alloys by direct chill casting under the effect of mechanical stirring: an experimental and simulation optimization study

Abstract Aluminium–tin (Al–Sn) immiscible alloys for bearing materials are difficult to cast by the conventional direct chill casting method. At higher concentrations, Sn accumulates at the bottom of the as-cast solid due to a significant density difference in Al and Sn. In the present investigation, Al–Sn alloys were fabricated by the direct chill (DC) casting method under the influence of mechanical forced convection (MFC). A computer-based simulation approach has been implemented to study the effect of MFC device position and impeller speed on melt flow and solidification. Optimized parameters were experimentally validated and the quality of as-cast ingots was evaluated. Hence, this optimization approach can be used to produce better quality Al–Sn bearing materials with uniformly distributed Sn phase in Al-matrix by the direct chill casting route.

Computer-Based Simulated Learning Activities: Exploring Saudi Students’ Attitude and Experience of Using Simulations to Facilitate Unsupervised Learning of Science Concepts

Today, computer-based simulations are widely used in a range of industries and fields for various purposes. They are helpful in testing different scenarios and hypotheses, allowing users to explore the consequences of different decisions and actions. This study aimed to explore the university students’ attitudes and experiences of using simulations to facilitate their unsupervised (without teachers’ support) learning of science concepts. This study involved 566 university students who used online simulations so support their unsupervised learning of science content in physics, chemistry, math, earth science, and biology. The data collected via a cross-sectional survey were analyzed using parametric statistics. The participants of the study showed a high -level of engagement and satisfaction with the use of simulations for unsupervised science learning, suggesting that computer-based simulations have the potential to serve as a user-centered learning interface capable of engaging university students without the teachers’ support. This study did not find a gender-based divide in the students’ experiences. Participants’ independent learning abilities were found to have a significant positive influence on their satisfaction and engagement. The results of this study have theoretical and practical implications for science learning beyond classroom walls.

Understanding college students’ cognitive engagement in online collaborative problem-solving: A multimodal data analysis

Laboratory experience is critical to foster college students’ collaborative problem-solving (CPS) abilities, but whether students stay cognitively engaged in CPS tasks during online laboratory sessions remains unknown. This study applied multimodal data analysis to examine college students’ (N = 36) cognitive engagement in CPS during their online experimentation experience. Groups of three collaborated on CPS tasks via shared worksheets and computer-based simulations on videoconferences. Portable electroencephalogram instruments were used to determine students’ levels of cognitive engagement in CPS activities. The multimodal data analysis (e.g., electroencephalogram, surveys, and artifacts) results showed a significant difference in students’ cognitive engagement between different phases of CPS. The students’ cognitive engagement significantly differed between groups who did and did not complete the task. Additionally, intrinsic motivation predicted students’ cognitive engagement in the completion groups while self-efficacy was the primary predictor of cognitive engagement for the groups who did not complete the task.

Finite-time synchronization of four-dimensional memristor-based chaotic oscillator and applied to secure communication systems

Incorporating memristor-based hyperchaotic (MHC) systems into secure communications increases signal complexity and randomness, while its parameter sensitivity develops chaos that defies synchronization behaviour. This paper assumes the MHC system is exposed to time-varying bounded external disturbances; it proposes a novel time-efficient nonlinear robust control approach for synchronizing two coupled MHC oscillators in a finite settling time. The proposed control methodology eliminates the time-varying bounded external disturbances effects; it establishes a faster, smoother synchronization error convergence to zero. The controller’s structure design does not cancel the closed-loop’s nonlinear terms; this attribute improves the closed-loop robustness. The proposed stability technique is based on the norm-2 inequality that assures finite-time convergence. The paper also studies closed-loop robust performance for the time-varying bounded external disturbances and slow, smooth variations in the system parameters. The theoretical analysis proofs using the Lyapunov theory and computer-based simulations validate that the proposed control technique quickly compels the synchronization error to zero with lesser fluctuations for all signals. The paper includes comparative computer simulations confirming that the outcomes of the proposed controller are better than the reported state-of-the-art finite-time control methods in all key performances. Finally, the article discusses applications of the proposed algorithm for the encryption/decryption of messages in secure communication systems.

Interactive STEM educational resource regarding to the projectile motion phenomenon on inclined plane

In this manuscript it is proposed a simple and low-cost computer-based simulation regarding to the concept of projectile motion (including also a game mode) on its more general case, that is, on inclined plane; with the aim of easing the learning-teaching process regarding to this physical phenomenon. The novelty of this proposal relies on the use of an external control that changes the projectile shooting angle, the initial velocity and inclination of the plane. This educational resource is coded in Scratch for Arduino (S4A), while its electronic interface is based on Arduino UNO.

The effectiveness of computer-based simulation on nursing students’ electrocardiogram interpretation

Learners are the core of any education process, wherein they should be exposed to meaningful activities. Examples of such activities are simulations, which engage learners and reframe their understanding of practice by enabling the simultaneous exercise of “doing” and “thinking.” Simulation is particularly useful in electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation as this is considered a difficult and complex topic. This prospective randomized controlled study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of simulation in promoting ECG learning by students. Sixty-four students were randomly assigned to groups exposed to traditional teaching (control) and a computer-based simulation (intervention). All the students were administered pre- and post-tests that required them to analyze 20 ECG strips. The analysis of the independent sample t-tests showed a significant difference in the means of the post-test scores between the intervention and control groups, t(37.47) = –9.628, two-tailed p = .000.Teaching ECG interpretation using a computer-based simulation was a successful experience.

Pharmacometrics: A New Era of Pharmacotherapy and Drug Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Pharmacotherapy, in many cases, is practiced at a suboptimal level of performance in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) although stupendous amounts of data are available regularly. The process of drug development is time-consuming, costly, and is also associated with loads of hurdles related to the safety concerns of the compounds. This review was conducted with the objective to emphasize the role of pharmacometrics in pharmacotherapy and the drug development process in LMICs for rational drug therapy. Pharmacometrics is widely applied for the rational clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) practice through the population pharmacokinetic (popPK) modeling and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling approach. The scope of pharmacometrics practice is getting wider day by day with the untiring efforts of pharmacometricians. The basis for pharmacometrics analysis is the computer-based modeling and simulation of pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) data supplemented by characterization of important aspects of drug safety and efficacy. Pharmacometrics can be considered an invaluable tool not only for new drug development with maximum safety and efficacy but also for dose optimization in clinical settings. Due to the convenience of using sparse and routine patient data, a significant advantage exists in this regard for LMICs which would otherwise lag behind in clinical trials.

Effects of a Computer-Based Community Health Nursing Virtual Reality Simulation on Postlicensure Nursing Students.

Virtual reality simulation in postlicensure nursing education, including community health, is an emerging instructional approach, and more research is needed on its effectiveness. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative, computer-based community health nursing virtual reality simulation among postlicensure nursing students. This mixed methods study consisted of 67 postlicensure community health nursing students who completed a pretest, computer-based virtual reality simulation, and a posttest and evaluation. The majority of participant scores increased from pretest to posttest, and most participants agreed that the computer-based virtual reality simulation was effective; new knowledge and skills learned, the material that was found to be most helpful, and benefits to nursing practice were identified. This community health nursing computer-based virtual reality simulation was effective at increasing participants' knowledge and confidence with learning. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2023;54(3):109-116.].

On Softwarization of Intelligence in 6G Networks for Ultra-Fast Optimal Policy Selection: Challenges and Opportunities

The emerging Sixth Generation (6G) communication networks promising 100 to 1000 Gbps rates and ultra-low latency (1 millisecond) are anticipated to have native, embedded Artificial Intelligence (AI) capability to support a myriad of services, such as Holographic Type Communications (HTC), tactile Internet, remote surgery, etc. However, these services require ultra-reliability, which is highly impacted by the dynamically changing environment of 6G heterogeneous tiny cells, whereby static AI solutions fitting all scenarios and devices are impractical. Hence, this article introduces a novel concept called the softwarization of intelligence in 6G networks to select the most ideal, ultra-fast optimal policy based on the highly varying channel conditions, traffic demand, user mobility, and so forth. Our envisioned concept is exemplified in a Multi- Armed Bandit (MAB) framework and evaluated within a use case of two simultaneous scenarios (i.e., Neighbor Discovery and Selection (NDS) in a Device-to-Device (D2D) network and aerial gateway selection in an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)- based under-served area network). Furthermore, our concept is evaluated through extensive computer-based simulations that indicate encouraging performance. Finally, related challenges and future directions are highlighted.

Coulomb’s Law: Augmented Reality Simulation

Coulomb’s law is a typical representative of the inverse-square laws that appear in various learning contexts in physics. In the usual classroom setting, most students do not have the opportunity to experimentally discover the interdependence of variables described by this law. Recently, digital technologies have become more prevalent at all levels of education. Teachers and researchers are successfully using computer-based simulations to improve physics education. Augmented reality is one of the emerging digital technologies that have the potential to improve students’ understanding of a wide range of educational topics. Nevertheless, it is advisable that students and teachers are familiar with the most efficient use of selected digital tools before using augmented reality-enriched physics lectures. In this paper, we present our augmented reality simulation called CoulombsLawAR, which could be useful for teaching Coulomb’s law.