scholarly journals A General Computational Framework for COVID-19 Modelling with Applications to Testing Varied Interventions in Education Environments

COVID ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
pp. 674-703
Author(s):  
Joshua W. Moore ◽  
Zechariah Lau ◽  
Katerina Kaouri ◽  
Trevor C. Dale ◽  
Thomas E. Woolley
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Asymptomatic Infection ◽  
Protective Equipment ◽  
Infection Rates ◽  
Computational Framework ◽  
Potential Efficacy ◽  
User Friendly ◽  
Flow Devices ◽  
Indoor Spaces ◽  
Pharmaceutical Interventions

We construct a spatially-compartmental, individual-based model of the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in indoor spaces. The model can be used to predict the infection rates in a variety of locations when various non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) are introduced. Tasked by the Welsh Government, we apply the model to secondary schools and to Further and Higher Education environments. Specifically, we consider student populations mixing in a classroom and in halls of residence. We focus on assessing the potential efficacy of Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs) when used in broad-based screens for asymptomatic infection or in ‘test-to-release’ scenarios in which individuals who have been exposed to infection are released from isolation after a negative LFD result. LFDs are also compared to other NPIs; we find that, although LFD testing can be used to mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2, it is more effective to invest in personal protective equipment, e.g., masks, and in increasing ventilation quality. In addition, we provide an open-access and user-friendly online applet that simulates the model, complete with user tutorials to encourage the use of the model to aid educational policy decisions as input infection data becomes available.

scholarly journals A general computational framework for COVID-19 modelling, with applications to testing varied interventions in education environments

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joshua W. Moore ◽  
Zechariah Lau ◽  
Katerina Kaouri ◽  
Trevor C. Dale ◽  
Thomas E. Woolley
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Personal Protective Equipment ◽  
Disease Incidence ◽  
Asymptomatic Infection ◽  
Disease Prevalence ◽  
Protective Equipment ◽  
Pharmacological Interventions ◽  
Computational Framework ◽  
Potential Efficacy ◽  
Flow Devices

AbstractWe construct a compartmental individual-based model of Covid-19 infection spread. The model can be used to predict the infection trajectory in general environments with various interventions introduced. Tasked by the Welsh Government, we apply the model to secondary schools and Further and Higher Education environments. Specifically, we consider populations mixing in both a classroom and Halls of Residence. Our particular focus was to question the potential efficacy of Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs) when used in broad-based screens for asymptomatic infection or in ‘test-to-release’ contexts in which individuals who have been exposed to infection are released from isolation. To compare scales of efficacy LFDs are compared to other non-pharmacological interventions. We find that, although tests can be used to reduce disease incidence, investments in personal protective equipment (e.g. masks) and increasing ventilation quality in enclosed environments is more effective in lowering disease prevalence.

scholarly journals “P3”: an adaptive modeling tool for post-COVID-19 restart of surgical services

JAMIA Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Divya Joshi ◽  
Ali Jalali ◽  
Todd Whipple ◽  
Mohamed Rehman ◽  
Luis M Ahumada
Keyword(s):  
Data Warehouse ◽  
Predictive Analytics ◽  
Surgical Patient ◽  
Protective Equipment ◽  
Operating Room Personnel ◽  
Surgical Services ◽  
Multiple Variable ◽  
Multiple Variables ◽  
Using Data ◽  
User Friendly

Abstract Objective To develop a predictive analytics tool that would help evaluate different scenarios and multiple variables for clearance of surgical patient backlog during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods Using data from 27 866 cases (May 1 2018–May 1 2020) stored in the Johns Hopkins All Children’s data warehouse and inputs from 30 operations-based variables, we built mathematical models for (1) time to clear the case backlog (2), utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE), and (3) assessment of overtime needs. Results The tool enabled us to predict desired variables, including number of days to clear the patient backlog, PPE needed, staff/overtime needed, and cost for different backlog reduction scenarios. Conclusions Predictive analytics, machine learning, and multiple variable inputs coupled with nimble scenario-creation and a user-friendly visualization helped us to determine the most effective deployment of operating room personnel. Operating rooms worldwide can use this tool to overcome patient backlog safely.

scholarly journals Ribo-ODDR: Oligo design pipeline for experiment-specific rRNA depletion in ribo-seq

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ferhat Alkan ◽  
Joana Silva ◽  
Eric Pintó Barberà ◽  
William J Faller
Keyword(s):  
Ribosome Profiling ◽  
Supplementary Information ◽  
Experimental Conditions ◽  
Computational Framework ◽  
Rna Translation ◽  
Rrna Depletion ◽  
Selection For ◽  
Nucleotide Resolution ◽  
User Friendly ◽  
Oligo Design

Abstract Motivation Ribosome Profiling (Ribo-seq) has revolutionized the study of RNA translation by providing information on ribosome positions across all translated RNAs with nucleotide-resolution. Yet several technical limitations restrict the sequencing depth of such experiments, the most common of which is the overabundance of rRNA fragments. Various strategies can be employed to tackle this issue, including the use of commercial rRNA depletion kits. However, as they are designed for more standardized RNAseq experiments, they may perform suboptimally in Ribo-seq. In order to overcome this, it is possible to use custom biotinylated oligos complementary to the most abundant rRNA fragments, however currently no computational framework exists to aid the design of optimal oligos. Results Here, we first show that a major confounding issue is that the rRNA fragments generated via Ribo-seq vary significantly with differing experimental conditions, suggesting that a “one-size-fits-all” approach may be inefficient. Therefore we developed Ribo-ODDR, an oligo design pipeline integrated with a user-friendly interface that assists in oligo selection for efficient experiment-specific rRNA depletion. Ribo-ODDR uses preliminary data to identify the most abundant rRNA fragments, and calculates the rRNA depletion efficiency of potential oligos. We experimentally show that Ribo-ODDR designed oligos outperform commercially available kits and lead to a significant increase in rRNA depletion in Ribo-seq. Availability Ribo-ODDR is freely accessible at https://github.com/fallerlab/Ribo-ODDR Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

scholarly journals Retrospective Study on Personal Protective Equipment During Pandemic Link to Outbreak of Carbpenem-Resistant Enterobacteriace

2021 ◽  
Vol 1 (S1) ◽  
pp. s9-s10
Author(s):  
Kenisha Evans ◽  
Jennifer LeRose ◽  
Angela Beatriz Cruz ◽  
Lavina Jabbo ◽  
Teena Chopra
Keyword(s):  
Retrospective Study ◽  
Infection Control ◽  
Personal Protective Equipment ◽  
Horizontal Transmission ◽  
Control Measures ◽  
Protective Equipment ◽  
Local Health ◽  
Infection Rates ◽  
Infection Control Measures ◽  
The Impact

Background: In 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), had cost the lives of >35,000 patients, particularly the most virulent plasmid-mediated New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM). Although healthcare systems normally have strict surveillance and infection control measures for CRE, the rapid emergence of novel SAR-CoV-2 and COVID-19 led to a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies. As a result, routine infection practices, such as contact precautions, were violated. Studies have shown this depletion and shift in resources compromised the control of infections such CRE leading to rising horizontal transmission. Method: A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary healthcare system in Detroit, Michigan, to determine the impact of PPE shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic on NDM infection rates. The following periods were established during 2020 based on PPE availability: (1) pre-PPE shortage (January–June), (2) PPE shortage (July–October), and (3) post-PPE shortage (November–December). Rates of NDM per 10,000 patient days were compared between periods using the Wilcoxon signed rank-sum test. Isolates were confirmed resistant by NDM by molecular typing performed by the Michigan State Health Department. Patient characteristics were gathered by medical chart review and patient interviews by telephone. Results: Overall, the average rate of NDM infections was 1.82 ±1.5 per 10,000 patient days. Rates during the PPE shortage were significantly higher, averaging 3.6 ±1.1 cases per 10,000 patient days (P = .02). During this time, several infections occurred within patients on the same unit and/or patients with same treating team, suggesting possible horizontal transmission. Once PPE stock was replenished and isolation practices were reinstated, NDM infection rates decreased to 0.77 ±1.1 per 10,000 patient days. Conclusion: Control of CRE requires strategic planning with active surveillance, antimicrobial constructs, and infection control measures. The study illustrates that in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the burden of effective infection control requires much more multidisciplinary efforts to prevent unintentional lapses in patient safety. A swift response by the state and local health departments at a tertiary-care healthcare center conveyed a positive mitigation of the highest clinical threats and decreased horizontal transmission of disease.Funding: NoDisclosures: None

What matters for higher education success of private educational institutions? Senior students’ perceptions in Malaysia

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 616-635 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jayaraman Krishnaswamy ◽  
Zarif Hossain ◽  
Mohan Kumar Kavigtha ◽  
Annamalai Nagaletchimee
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Career Development ◽  
Higher Education Institutions ◽  
Education Institution ◽  
Private University ◽  
Research Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Smart Classroom ◽  
Social Governance ◽  
User Friendly

Purpose Within the higher education structure, students have the desire for both virtual and face-to-face learning and demand for diverse simulations from the higher education institutions. The purpose of this study is to highlight the significance of higher education success (HES) for one of the top private universities in Malaysia. In the paper, a research model for HES has been proposed and tested within the management perspectives. This research model has five dimensions, namely, smart classroom, user-friendly technology, peers support, partnership and social governance, as potential determinants for HES. Design/methodology/approach A structured survey questionnaire using an extensive literature review was conducted from a No. 1 private university in Malaysia. The target population included students who have passed out under-graduate or post-graduate or are studying in their final trimester. The questionnaire was administered to 107 respondents using an interview method in order to have scientific and authentic data with minimal common method bias. The data collection process was taken over a one-month period during May 2018 and it ensured the rectification of missing data. The study utilized an inclusive criterion as those students who have complete knowledge about the university in terms of academic, administrative and technical matters. Findings Out of 107 survey respondents, 76 (71 percent) respondents were favorable for HES, which implies that the targeted education institution strives toward career development for students. The study reveals that the partnership of the institution has a positive influence on HES. Smart classroom and social governance are the other determinants which have a positive impact on HES. An excellent infrastructure facility together with formal and informal activities to cultivate knowledge sharing, trustworthiness, quality education and academic excellence of the institution makes it a healthy atmosphere for students to pursue their studies. However, user-friendly technology and peers support were not found to be significant. Practical implications The proposed research model is crucial for educationalists to design the course curriculum for higher education institutions. The significant results and scope discussed in the present study can be applied and customized to any higher education institution in the globe for long-term sustainability to orient students toward career development. Originality/value Since the present paper investigates the No. 1 private university, the current findings can be used as a guide for other private universities to enhance their course curriculum. The conceptualization of the research model includes new dimensions which highlight the latest development in HES. Emerging studies have claimed that HES depends on effective administration of the institution by the management and appropriate industry linkages, with the highest priority for student learning capabilities to exhibit their talents.

Augmented reality for volcanic and seismic risk communication

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Danilo Reitano ◽  
Susanna Falsaperla
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Augmented Reality ◽  
Seismic Risk ◽  
Analysis Data ◽  
Earth Observation ◽  
Natural Risk ◽  
Good Practices ◽  
User Friendly ◽  
Innovative Techniques ◽  
Volcanic Environment

<p>Dealing with topics concerning natural risk management in a volcanic environment, can greatly benefit from innovative techniques. In particular, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are well known by Native Digital and can be used by lower-level and university students to promote their understanding of natural risks.</p><p><strong>3DTeLC </strong>is a three-year trans-European project funded by the Erasmus+ Key Action 2 programme: “Cooperation for Innovation and Exchange of Good Practices, a European scheme that fosters higher education partnerships” (https://www.erasmusplus.org.uk/key-action-2).</p><p>The main goal of this project is to help young students to become highly-skilled professionals in the field of environment and geosciences, gaining knowledge in image and 3D-spatial analysis, data management and informatics, and strengthening their mathematical and numerical skills in Earth observation and data analysis.</p><p>In the framework of this project INGV team has developed a “Talking poster”, using a custom AR tool to propose a user friendly approach aimed at the reduction of volcanic and seismic risks.</p>

scholarly journals MScs in railway transport and logistics: State of the art and perspectives for a new programme

2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 62-67
Author(s):  
Luca Rizzetto ◽  
Stefano Ricci ◽  
Marin Marinov
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
European Commission ◽  
English Language ◽  
State Of The Art ◽  
Railway Transport ◽  
Rail Freight ◽  
Education Innovation ◽  
Comprehensive Framework ◽  
User Friendly ◽  
Different Levels

The objective of this paper is to discuss results obtained from a structured survey on MScs in railway transport and logistics, which has been conducted within the RiFLE project. RiFLE stands for Rail Freight and Logistics Curriculum Development and was funded by the Erasmus (LLL) programme of the European Commission. The aim of RiFLE was to develop master courses to be delivered in English language by the participating institutions as separate but shared programmes in their universities. The approach was to analyse, enhance and adapt existing courses already offered by the participating institutions within a modern rail freight and logistics environment. Therefore, the goal of the survey was to define the state of the art of the current offer of MSc ‘railway transport and logistics’ related courses across the European and non-European countries. For the collection of data, a questionnaire has been developed. ‘SuperSurvey’ was used to approach intended respondents. SuperSurvey is a user-friendly online platform for collecting information using questionnaires. The target group included professors, lecturers and masters programmes managers in transport and logistics. Existing relevant programmes from European and other universities and institutions for higher education have been collected and analysed. Information collected helped to define a comprehensive framework of transport and logistics curricula, courses and programmes and to understand different levels of learning and structures of higher education such as single modules, bachelor courses, master courses, as well as mobility programmes and patterns. Keywords: Rail freight and logistics, higher education, innovation, survey, state of the art.

scholarly journals Students with Disabilities at Two Higher Education Institutions Selected from South Africa: A Social Model of Disability

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (6) ◽  
pp. 238
Author(s):  
Mogomme Alpheus Masoga
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
South Africa ◽  
Students With Disabilities ◽  
Academic Community ◽  
Social Model ◽  
Academic Life ◽  
Social Model Of Disability ◽  
Higher Education System ◽  
Physically Challenged ◽  
User Friendly

Learners with disabilities are faced with unprecedented challenges in their pursuit of integration in the institutionalized higher education system in South Africa. The aim of this paper is to explore the recruitment and integration of students with disabilities (SWDs) at selected rural universities in South Africa in terms of facilities for physically challenged students. Personal conversations and informal discussions and desk and documentary research have collectively informed the present discourse. By utilizing a social model of disability, this study proposes that both institutions need to accelerate the provision of user-friendly facilities to accommodate various categories of SWDs either currently enrolled or those aspiring to study at the institutions. Considering the evaluations and observations explored in this opinion paper, the academic community of both institutions will need to pay attention to the special needs of SWDs because the absence of this attention will negatively impact the outcome of the academic life of learners.

scholarly journals IoT as Non-Phaarmaceutical Interventions for the Safety of Living Environments in COVID-19 Pandemic Age

2021 ◽  
Vol 3 ◽  
Author(s):  
Luciano Gamberini ◽  
Patrik Pluchino ◽  
Davide Bacchin ◽  
Andrea Zanella ◽  
Valeria Orso ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Privacy Protection ◽  
Smart Devices ◽  
Protective Equipment ◽  
Smart Cameras ◽  
Healthcare Facilities ◽  
Safe Place ◽  
Perception Of Safety ◽  
Living Environments ◽  
The Internet Of Things ◽  
Pharmaceutical Interventions

The outbreak of the Sars-Cov-2 pandemic has changed our perception of safety in shared and public living environments including healthcare facilities, shops, schools, and enterprises. The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a suitable solution for managing anti-pandemic smart devices (e.g., UV lights, smart cameras, etc.) and increasing citizens’ safety in public health crises. In this paper, we highlighted how IoT technologies can be exploited as non-pharmaceutical interventions presenting the SAFE PLACE project as an implementation of this concept. The project meant to design and develop an IoT system to ensure the safety and salubrity of shared environments. Advanced algorithms will be exploited to detect and classify humans’ presence, gathering, usage of personal protective equipment, and considering carefully the privacy protection of individuals.

scholarly journals The prevalence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in asymptomatic healthcare workers with intensive exposure to COVID-19

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shue Xiong ◽  
Chunxia Guo ◽  
Ulf Dittmer ◽  
Xin Zheng ◽  
Baoju Wang
Keyword(s):  
General Population ◽  
Personal Protective Equipment ◽  
Healthcare Workers ◽  
Asymptomatic Infection ◽  
Chest Ct ◽  
Protective Equipment ◽  
Rna Detection ◽  
Negative Results ◽  
Epidemic Area ◽  
Chest Ct Scan

AbstractThe prevalence of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare workers with intensive exposure to COVID-19 is unclear. In this study, we investigated the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in 797 asymptomatic healthcare workers with intensive exposure to COVID-19 patients in Wuhan, China. Positive IgG was detected from 35 asymptomatic healthcare workers, and the prevalence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in asymptomatic healthcare workers was 4.39% (35/797). None of them developed COVID-19 until May 15. 33 of them have performed at least one chest CT scan showing no viral pneumonia features, and 16 have finished at least one-time SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection with negative results. When contacting with the patients, 15 of them dressed with full personal protective equipment (PPE), and 16 worn N95 mask and gown. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first investigation reported that the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 was 4.39% in asymptomatic healthcare workers with applied PPE in a high epidemic area, which may provide useful information of estimating asymptomatic infection rate in general population.

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