Simulation Research Articles

Benefits of lower limb angioplasty training using a virtual reality simulator among vascular surgical residents

Benefits of lower limb angioplasty training using a virtual reality simulator among vascular surgical residents

Exploration and Validation of Lead Molecules against Yellow Fever through High Throughput Virtual Screening and Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Background: Yellow fever (YF) is a mosquito-borne flaviviral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) that causes severe hepatitis, renal failure, bleeding, and quick terminal events such as shock and multi-organ failure. There are currently no particular anti-viral medications for the management of the YF virus (YFV). Despite the availability of a commercial YFV vaccination, there are roughly 30,000 fatalities globally each year, with instances rising over the previous 20 years. After being translocated into the endoplasmic reticulum lumen, glycosylated NS1 resides as a membrane-associated dimer, where it is required for viral genome replication. The secreted hexamer NS1 has a role in immune evasion and pathogenesis and has been discovered as a possible diagnostic marker for the early identification of viral infections. Objective: The main aim of this study is to analyze the small molecule as a potent drug candidate against the target NS1 protein. Methods: In this study, Computational approaches, including high throughput virtual screening, molecular docking, and dynamics simulation, were carried out against the target NS1 protein using three different chemical libraries Enamine, Asinex, and NCI. The selected lead compounds were validated through HOMO-LUMO analysis, ADME prediction, and Toxicity parameters to analyze the biological and pharmacological properties of the lead small molecules. Results: From the result, it was concluded that the leads possessed the highest docking scores, interacting with the binding residues, and were stable in the simulation period. Conclusion: Overall findings revealed that the lead three small molecules could act as the potential drug candidate for the target NS1 protein to inhibit the diseasing efficacy of Yellow fever.

The Use of Simulated Participant and Virtual Reality Simulation to Enhance Nursing Students’ Communication Skills in “End of Life Care” - A Single-Arm Repeated Measures Study

BackgroundIncreasing demand for palliative care necessitates effective training for nursing students in end-of-life (EOL) and advanced care planning (ACP). Conventional teaching methods often fall short. MethodsA single-arm pre-post design involved 219 nursing students in VR and SP simulations. Quantitative measures and qualitative feedback were obtained. ResultsStatistical analysis revealed significant improvement post-intervention (p < 0.001). Qualitative feedback highlighted realism, interactivity, and skill development. Challenges included emotional intensity and scenario repetition. ConclusionsCombining virtual reality (VR) and simulated participant (SP) simulation significantly enhances nursing students' confidence and communication for end-of-life (EOL) conversations, offering a realistic educational experience. Further research is recommended in understanding this teaching method.

Pre-simulation Preparation Preferences of Senior Nursing Students: Virtual Simulation Games Versus Traditional Case Studies

BackgroundPresimulation preparation is critical to prepare learners to participate fully in clinical simulations; however, many do not complete assigned presimulation activities. Research QuestionWhich presimulation preparation activities will senior nursing students choose and perceive as helpful? MethodsA quasi-experimental study evaluated senior nursing student (n = 115) pre-simulation preparation preferences. Students had access to eight activities including a case study and a virtual simulation game (VSG). Participants indicated which activities they completed, and rated the case study and VSG in terms of usability, engagement, and impact on learning. ResultsOverall, 57% of participants completed the paper-based case study and 37% played the VSG. Participation in any preparation resulted in significant improvements in competence (t = 2.3; p = .02). Learners rated VSG higher than case study in terms of usability (t = 2.6; p = .01), engagement (t = 2.8; p = .01) and impact on learning (t = 2.4; p = .02). ConclusionResults revealed nursing students have different preferences for pre-simulation preparation. Although more students completed the case study than the VSG, those who played the game rated it higher. This supports providing a choice in presimulation preparation activities.

Simulation-Based Telemedicine Training Program for Residents in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: A Virtual Standardized Patient Activity

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a new era of healthcare delivery, emphasizing the crucial role of telemedicine. This study aimed to address the training needs of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&amp;R) residents in telemedicine through an Interactive Virtual Telemedicine training program utilizing standardized patient methodology. Methods: A tailored virtual standardized patient simulation module was developed for PM&amp;R residents. Prior to the training, residents completed pre-training questionnaires. The training consisted of (1) a 2-hour classroom didactic session covering telemedicine strategies for conducting physical examinations and triaging, as well as anticipated challenges. (2) a 2-hour zoom telemedicine simulation training exposed residents to three distinct patient scenarios (sickle cell crisis, acute low back pain, and neurorehabilitation). (3) a three-stage debriefing tool was employed for post-training reflection. Results: Eight PM&amp;R residents, predominantly males, with varying prior exposure to telemedicine, participated in the study. Post-training evaluations indicated that residents overwhelmingly found the simulation-based telemedicine training valuable and worth the didactic time invested. Data analysis demonstrated a significant increase in residents’ knowledge and confidence in telemedicine skills. Discussion: The study’s findings suggest that the telemedicine training program effectively enhanced residents’ understanding and confidence in telemedicine skills. Future research endeavors could involve a larger and more diverse group of residents to further assess training effectiveness and gather a wider array of perspectives on telemedicine. Expanding the use of standardized patients in telemedicine simulation training holds promise for advancing medical education in this evolving healthcare landscape.

Enabling resilient UAV swarms through multi-hop wireless communications

In the last decade, the popularity of UAVs, colloquially known as drones, has increased tremendously. Nowadays, drones are used in a wide range of use-cases, such as precision agriculture, surveillance, and photography. Many of these use-cases can be made more efficient if multiple UAVs are used cooperatively (i.e., in a swarm). To achieve this, communication between the UAVs is paramount. To ensure communication, many works rely on the existing infrastructure (e.g., 4G). However, in many rural areas, this infrastructure does not exist. In those cases, an ad hoc (Wi-Fi) network is the most adequate alternative. Yet, due to the limited communication range of Wi-Fi, it is not possible to let UAVs in a swarm to communicate over a long distance. To solve this issue a relay approach is necessary. Despite general solutions to relay messages between (mobile) nodes already exist, many UAV swarms rely on master–slave communication. Thus, a specific solution for this type of communication might be more efficient. Hence, in this work, we propose a strategy to efficiently relay messages for UAV swarms adopting the master–slave communication paradigm. Our approach seeks to introduce a very small message overhead to avoid congestion of the network, and to provide more bandwidth for the actual applications of the UAV swarm. We tested our approach using a realistic UAV simulator called ArduSim. Our results show that our approach is capable of detecting all the nodes in the network within a few seconds. Furthermore, we applied our message relay approach on an existing swarm application (where a swarm of UAVs had to follow a mission), and our results show that, now, the communication range of the UAVs can be much larger, without impacting other aspects of the mission (such as flight time).

Development of a dedicated process simulator for the digital twin in apparel manufacturing: a case study

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to introduce a dedicated simulator to automatically generate and simulate a balanced apparel assembly line, which is critical to the digital twin concept in apparel manufacturing. Given the low automation level in apparel manufacturing, this is a first step toward the implementation of a smart factory based on cyber-physical systems.Design/methodology/approachThe mixed task assignment algorithm was implemented to automatically generate a module-based apparel assembly line in the developed simulator. To validate the developed simulator, a case study was conducted using process analysis data of technical jackets obtained from an apparel manufacturer. The case study included three scenarios: calculating the number of workers, selecting orders based on factory capacity and managing unexpected worker absences.FindingsThe developed simulator is approximately 97.2% accurate in assigning appropriate tasks to workstations using the mixed task assignment algorithm. The simulator was also found to be effective in supporting decision-making for production planning, order selection and apparel assembly line management. In addition, the module-based line generation algorithm made it easy to modify the assembly line.Originality/valueThis study contributes a novel approach to address the challenge of low automation levels in apparel manufacturing by introducing a dedicated simulator. This dedicated simulator improves the efficiency of virtual apparel assembly line generation and simulation, which distinguishes it from existing commercial simulation software.

Addressing Culturally Based Hidden Bias and RacisM (A-CHARM) Using Simulation Experiences, Nik's Story: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Racism and hidden bias experienced by underrepresented nursing students contribute to a loss of confidence and anxiety. The A-CHARM nursing project developed virtual simulation experiences for nursing students to practice how to address racism. 'Nik's Story' virtual simulation was created as part of the A-CHARM project. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of an education intervention, that included Nik's story, on cultural humility and cultural diversity awareness. This quasi-experimental study included a convenience sample of final year nursing students. After informed consent, participants completed a pre-intervention questionnaire that included the Cultural Humility Scale "context for difference in perspective" subscale, and the Cultural Diversity Awareness questionnaire to assess baseline knowledge. Students participated in an education intervention that included a lecture, Nik's story virtual simulation experience, a debrief and then completed a post-education/simulation questionnaire that included usability/learner engagement questions and the Cultural Humility Scale "context for difference in perspective" subscale, and the Cultural Diversity Awareness questionnaire. Forty-seven students consented and completed the pre/post intervention questionnaire. Participants rated the effectiveness, engagement and usability of the simulation experience highly. There was a significant positive change in cultural humility "context for difference in perspective" subscale (pre-scores = 6.9, SD = 3.3; post-scores = 31.0, SD = 3.8, p < 0.001), and cultural diversity awareness (pre-scores = 95.4, SD = 8.9; post-scores = 103.4, SD = 9.8, p < 0.001). This intervention was effective in improving cultural humility and cultural diversity awareness in nursing students. Simulation experiences regarding racism in the clinical setting provide a strategy for students to learn how to professionally navigate unwanted experiences.

Training Law Enforcement Officers About Autism: Evaluation of Adding Virtual Reality or Simulation to a Traditional Training Approach.

Prevalence rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across the globe and lifespan suggest that law enforcement officers (LEOs) are likely to interact with autistic people in their professional duties. In developed countries, LEOs have professional encounters with autistic individuals, and research strongly supports LEOs need training to increase their knowledge about autism and confidence interacting with autistic people. The purpose of the present study is to compare three training approaches with LEOs: (a) a training presentation alone (P), (b) a training presentation combined with virtual reality simulation (P + VR), and (c) a training presentation combined with in-vivo simulation (P + SIM). The primary outcomes are LEO knowledge of autism and self-reported confidence in responding to autism calls. The present study included 259 LEOS who completed a survey assessing autism knowledge and confidence in level of skill before and after participating in ASD-specific training for LEOs. Findings support that participant knowledge of autism and confidence in responding significantly increased for all LEOs equally across training conditions. Results support that formalized training in ASD significantly impacts LEO's knowledge of ASD and confidence responding to calls. As such, standardized training for LEOs is needed to assure appropriate knowledge and confidence when responding to calls involving autistic persons.

Using virtual and augmented reality to study architectural lighting

This paper presents industry stakeholder insights from the implementation of a dual modality intervention using virtual and augmented reality simulation to study complex lighting theory in architecture design. Using a design based research method the aim is to evaluate these insights and inform a pilot study to educate first year architectural design students on the complexities of lighting the built environment and methods to improve architectural workflow. The aim is to enable learners to experience natural and artificial lighting methods comparatively in real-time through multiple comparative visualisation methods. This is important to make informed evaluations regarding architectural designs in terms of spatial quality, character, performance, and user-comfort levels. This in turn allows architects to rapidly modify their designs to accommodate or mitigate the environmental effects. Outcomes from the initial usability test highlight the ability to switch back and forth between the virtual and augmented reality simulation technology, and between lighting visualisation modes as a huge step forward by the industry stakeholders. Additionally, the idea of representing the physical building where the simulation took place virtually using a detailed mapping gave a real-world anchor that made the simulations easy to navigate, leading to improved satisfaction and engagement. However, the study also highlighted improvements in the delivery of the simulation is required to improve simulation learnability and efficiency.

A Case Study on Orthodontic-Surgical Management of Skeletal Class III Malocclusion in Adults: Clinical Approach and Outcomes

This article presents a case study illustrating the successful management of skeletal Class III malocclusion in an adult through an orthodontic-surgical approach. The clinical case outlines the entire process, from initial assessment to post-treatment outcomes, conducted within our service. Key steps include diagnostic planning using advanced tools such as 3D imaging and virtual surgery simulation. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment was carefully planned to prepare dental and skeletal structures for surgical correction. Orthognathic surgery was performed precisely according to the established plan, followed by a post-surgical orthodontic phase to finalize occlusion. Short-term and long-term outcomes are evaluated, highlighting significant improvement in facial aesthetics, occlusal function, and post-treatment stability. This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of our integrated approach in managing skeletal Class III malocclusions in adults, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for optimal outcomes

Enhancing Education With Qualtrics: Interactive Learning Activities, Case Studies, and Virtual Simulations.

Enhancing Education With Qualtrics: Interactive Learning Activities, Case Studies, and Virtual Simulations.

An ethical leadership assessment center pilot: Assessing and developing moral person and moral manager dimensions

Abstract Ethical leaders are those who exemplify moral behavior personally, as well as those who facilitate follower ethical behavior. Although recent attention has been given to the ethical leadership construct, there remains a lack of innovation regarding the assessment and development of ethical leaders in organizations. To address these issues, a pilot study was conducted to examine the convergent validity of an ethical leadership assessment center, as well as the efficacy of using assessment center feedback to foster ethical leadership. Assessees completed a battery of pre tests, a virtual business simulation with a novel exercise, and a set of post tests. Half of the assessees were randomly assigned to a feedback condition, whereas the other half did not receive feedback until after the post tests were completed. Due to low statistical power, quantitative results were inconclusive. Nevertheless, qualitative insights were gained that point to implications for validating assessment center methodologies when assessing and developing ethical leadership.

Automatic classification of smart sensor data for evaluating machine tool efficiency

AbstractThe assessment of production plant efficiency is crucial for optimizing the operational performance of manufacturing systems. In traditional facilities, automated data collection is limited and information primarily relies on operators declarations, which are prone to inaccuracy. There is therefore a need for readily accessible digital alternatives. This paper introduces a cost-effective method for classifying the status of machine tools using smart sensors to monitor their primary doors with minimal integration, and a streamlined algorithm for efficient data processing. The innovative algorithm was conceived using data collected in over 3 months in a manufacturing plant comprising 50 diverse machine tools engaged in batch production for the automotive industry, and is based on non-dimensional thresholds, making it suitable for generic applications requiring classification of repetitive patterns. Also, a realistic simulator was developed to provide reliable data for algorithm accuracy evaluation. The classification performance was fully tested using synthetic data, showing very good accuracy. In addition, the performance of the algorithm was compared to basic machine learning approaches further proving the validity of the proposed method. Ultimately, the classification algorithm was employed to assess the Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) of the real plant machines, which were closely aligned with the estimates provided by the enterprise management.

Comparison of Sentiment Analysis Methods Used to Investigate the Quality of Teaching Aids Based on Virtual Simulators of Embedded Systems

Virtual simulators of embedded systems and analyses of student surveys regarding their use at the early stage of the process of learning embedded systems, are presented in this article. The questionnaires were prepared in the Polish language, and the answers were automatically translated into English using two publicly available translators. The results of users’ experiences and feelings related to the use of virtual simulators are shown on the basis of detected sentiment using three chosen analysis methods: the Flair NLP library, the Pattern library, and the BERT NLP model. The results of the selected sentiment detection methods were compared and related to users reference answers, which gives information about the methods quality of the methods and their possible use in the automated review analysis process. This paper comprises detailed sentiment analysis results with a broader statistical approach for each question. Based on the students feedback and sentiment analysis, a new version of the TMSLAB v.2 virtual simulator was created.

Revolutionizing Drama Education: A Journey through Virtual Simulation Technology

In this paper, we deeply discuss the practical application of virtual simulation technology in the field of drama teaching. First, we analyze how virtual simulation technology can improve the efficiency of drama teaching through simulation, intelligent interaction and personalized learning. Subsequently, we detail how virtual simulation technology can help educators create more innovative and immersive drama courses. Finally, we delve into the challenges that may arise when integrating virtual simulation technology into drama teaching and propose solutions to overcome these obstacles in order to optimize the effectiveness of drama teaching. The purpose of this paper is to provide educators with a fresh perspective to better understand and utilize the potential of virtual simulation technology in drama teaching and learning.

A Real-time Assessment System for Cognitive Performances of Armored Vehicle Crews Based upon the Multi-source Information Fusion

In the human-machine system of armored vehicles, the cognitive performance state of crews is crucial for the personnel security and combat efficiency. The purpose of this research was to establish a real-time assessment system for cognitive performances of armored vehicle crews, consisting of the data input module, data processing module, data visualization module, and scheduling module. Forty subjects were recruited to cooperate and execute the cross-platform strike task in a virtual simulation platform. The physiological data and operation behavior data was collected during the experiment process. To realize the accurate classification of different cognitive performance states, a multi-source information fusion algorithm was developed based on linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and D-S evidence theory, which included the information collection module, the feature extraction module, and the information fusion module. The results indicated that there existed a significant correlation between the extractive feature indicators (i.e., EOG, ECG, and task performance indicators) and the cognitive performance. The recognition accuracy and the data efficiency of the proposed assessment system were 91.25% and 96.69% respectively by using the complementarity of different evidences, which were higher than the others using partial information sources. This study can provide a reference for the comprehensive assessment of cognitive performance of human operators in military and industrial domains.

Which practice is best to manage the Hidden curriculum for the best use of mobile devices in clinical practice? A systematic review.REVIEW

Objective: To evaluate the literature regarding the practices to manage the hidden curriculum for the best use of mobile devices in clinical practice. Study Design: Systematic Review. Setting: Articles selected for review from Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, Ireland and Saudi Arabia. Period: July to Dec 2023. Methods: Following databases were searched: PubMed (12,579), the Cochrane Library (348), scopus (84), PsycInfo (21), CINAHL (220), Google Scholar (1,414). Primary variable (Evaluation of the development of clinical skills made possible by mobile devices) and secondary variable (to determine how satisfied students are with their mobile learning experience). The quality of study was critically appraised according the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) scale. Results: The research findings indicate that using mobile devices into medical education has a variety of effects. Positive instructor perspectives, more student involvement, and higher learning outcomes were frequently reported by participants. Medical students' growth of technological competency and readiness for the changing healthcare landscape have been found to be accelerated by mobile devices. The integration of virtual simulations and applications that are interactive has had a positive impact on the development of clinical abilities. Positive effects included themes of individualization, collaborative learning communities, and a better understanding of patient-centered care. On the other hand, issues including the digital divide, diversions, and security threats were recognized as obstacles that called for a careful strategy to reduce any negative effects. When everything is considered, the findings confirm the revolutionary potential of mobile device incorporation in medical education and highlight how it helps to create a dynamic, technologically advanced learning environment for prospective medical professionals. Conclusion: This study provides insight on how adding mobile devices into medical education has a revolutionary effect. The research indicates enhanced learning outcomes, increased student involvement, and altering faculty perspectives through insightful stories and compelling arguments.

α-Glucosidase inhibitory potential of Oroxylum indicum using molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and in vitro evaluation

BackgroundAccording to the International Diabetes Federation, there will be 578 million individuals worldwide with diabetes by 2030 and 700 million by 2045. One of the promising drug targets to fight diabetes is α-glucosidase (AG), and its inhibitors may be used to manage diabetes by reducing the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. The study aims to identify and validate potential AG inhibitors in natural sources to combat diabetes. MethodsComputational techniques such as structure-based virtual screening and molecular dyncamic simulation were employed to predict potential AG inhibitors from compounds of Oroxylum indicum. Finally, in silico results were validated by in vitro analysis using n-butanol fraction of crude methanol extracts. ResultsThe XP glide scores of top seven hits OI_13, OI_66, OI_16, OI_44, OI_43, OI_20, OI_78 and acarbose were –14.261, –13.475, –13.074, –13.045, –12.978, –12.659, –12.354 and –12.296 kcal/mol, respectively. These hits demonstrated excellent binding affinity towards AG, surpassing the known AG inhibitor acarbose. The MM-GBSA dG binding energies of OI_13, OI_66, and acarbose were −69.093, −62.950, and −53.055 kcal/mol, respectively. Most of the top hits were glycosides, indicating that active compounds lie in the n-butanol fraction of the extract. The IC50 value for AG inhibition by n-butanol fraction was 248.1 μg/ml, and for that of pure acarbose it was 89.16 μg/ml. The predicted oral absorption rate in humans for the top seven hits was low like acarbose, which favors the use of these compounds as anti-diabetes in the small intestine. ConclusionIn summary, the study provides promising insights into the use of natural compounds derived from O. indicum as potential AG inhibitors to manage diabetes. However, further research, including clinical trials and pharmacological studies, would be necessary to validate their efficacy and safety before clinical use.

Virtual Simulation Design and Debugging of Lift-and-Transverse Stereo Garage Based on the Digital Twin

In the face of the challenges of limited urban space and the continuous increase of vehicles, stereo garages have been widely used as a solution in cities. In order to improve the automation and intelligence level of the stereo garage, this paper applies the digital twin technology to the lift-and-transverse stereo garage. A five-dimensional model of a digital twin has been developed based on an actual stereo garage. Combined with S7-PLCSIM Advanced, Botu TIA Portal, and NX MCD to build a virtual simulation platform, realizing the virtual simulation design and debugging of the digital twin-based stereo garage. This approach allows to test and optimize operational processes without relying on physical equipment, reducing labor and field debugging costs, shortening deployment cycles, and significantly reducing development costs. In addition, MCD allows real-time monitoring and control of security risks and failures detected. Finally, the feasibility of the virtual simulation and debugging scheme based on digital twin is verified by comparing the operation data of the virtual model and the actual stereo garage, which provides new ideas for the intelligent development of stereo garage but also can be used as an important reference for the development of equipment in other areas.