Autonomous real-time surveillance system with distributed IP cameras

An autonomous Internet Protocol (IP) camera based object tracking and behaviour identification system, capable of running in real-time on an embedded system with limited memory and processing power is presented in this paper. The main contribution of this work is the integration of processor intensive image processing algorithms on an embedded platform capable of running at real-time for monitoring the behaviour of pedestrians. The Algorithm Based Object Recognition and Tracking (ABORAT) system architecture presented here was developed on an Intel PXA270-based development board clocked at 520 MHz. The platform was connected to a commercial stationary IP-based camera in a remote monitoring station for intelligent image processing. The system is capable of detecting moving objects and their shadows in a complex environment with varying lighting intensity and moving foliage. Objects moving close to each other are also detected to extract their trajectories which are then fed into an unsupervised neural network for autonomous classification. The novel intelligent video system presented is also capable of performing simple analytic functions such as tracking and generating alerts when objects enter/leave regions or cross tripwires superimposed on live video by the operator

An engaging pedagogy for social education: co-teaching in a teacher education program

This article examines ongoing research into the utility of co-teaching and co-generative dialoguing as an approach for teaching and learning Social Education. The context is the introduction of a new Australian postgraduate teacher education program in which three participants - two university educators and a practising primary school teacher - co-taught a Social Education course. This article focuses on how the approach enabled these participants to develop and teach the course to prepare the pre-service teachers to successfully understand and implement aspects of the Australian Curriculum in their future classrooms. The article explores the mutually-beneficial as well as challenging aspects of co-teaching. Conclusions and recommendations about the approach as an engaging pedagogical approach for teaching Social Education are offered

Conditional Beliefs of Primary-Care Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression

Background:Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) aims to reframe underlying conditional beliefs that are thought to maintain depression.Aim:To systematically explore conditional beliefs expressed by primary-care based patients with TRD, defined as non-response to at least 6 weeks of antidepressants.Method:Conditional beliefs (stated in an “If. . .then. . .” format) were extracted from a random sample of 50 sets of therapist notes from the CoBalT trial, a large randomized controlled trial of CBT for TRD in primary care. The beliefs were separated into their two constituent parts; the demands (Ifs) and consequences (thens). An approach based on framework analysis provided a systematic way of organizing the data, and identifying key themes.Results:Four main themes emerged from the demand part of the conditional beliefs (Ifs): 1. High standards; 2. Putting others first/needing approval; 3. Coping; and 4. Hiding “true” self. Three main themes emerged from the consequence part of the conditional beliefs (thens): 1. Defectiveness; 2. Responses of others; 3. Control of emotions.Conclusions: Identifying common themes in the conditional beliefs of patients with TRD adds to our clinical understanding of this client group, providing useful information to facilitate the complex process of collaborative case conceptualization and working with conditional beliefs within CBT interventions.</jats:p

Promoting Clinical Engagement and Cross-sector Collaboration Through Changes in Workforce, Use of Technology, and Improved Business Systems

Published version made available here with permission from publisher.Background: Cross-sectoral collaboration across health care settings has the potential to deliver efficiencies as well as improve health care outcomes. There is a need for better understanding and awareness of models, mechanisms and strategies that enhance crosssectoral collaboration in Australia. Improved cross-sectoral collaboration is supported by a number of changes in workforce, use of technology and improved business systems. This review seeks to summarise these programs for those who may be seeking to engage in this area as a means of determining the range of options and possible proven benefits. Methodology: This study employs a mixed methods approach. A pragmatic literature review was undertaken to determine the relevant collaborative care models and review current programs Australia-wide that implement these models. Programs were selected from searching the grey and indexed medical literature as well as suggestions obtained from relevant stakeholders. Criteria for inclusion included having description in the peer reviewed and grey literature, ability to represent a unique model, extent of current use and description of outcomes of the intervention. Additional qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted to elucidate more detailed information about technology, workforce and business systems. This information is summarised in the report and details about the individual programs are included as an appendix to this report. Results: Fifteen models were reviewed for this report. Qualitative semi-structured interview data were employed to supplement findings from the literature review. Key mechanisms of these models are described specifically focusing on the use of technology, workforce and business systems. Facilitators and barriers were identified and explored

A Mixed-Methods Exploration Of Community College Administrators’ Assumptions About The Basic Computer Skills Of Instructors And Students

Community college administrators and leaders have assumptions about the students’ and instructors’ basic computer skills that may or may not be accurate, and there may not be adequate support structures and training available. This study shows that the lack of even basic computer literacy skills can affect academic success and the ability of instructors to integrate technology in their teaching effectively. This mixed-methods study investigates the assumptions made by community colleges about the computer literacy skills of students and instructors and explores the accuracy of these assumptions and the student experience through digital and visual methods. Community colleges’ role in serving a wide range of learners from all walks of life, socioeconomic status and rural areas. If they do not have systems in place to assess the basic computer literacy skills of students (and their instructors), creating barriers in the progression toward the workforce and career success. Findings show that administrators assumptions are more positive towards instructors than students to have basic computer skills by emphasizing the disparities across demographic groups. Various methods were employed for data collection, including Northstar digital computer skills assessment scores, online surveys, and digital storytelling. Analysis of student data revealed prevalent themes related to varied exposure to technology in early childhood, language barriers and the use of alternative devices to compensate for their lack of access or skills. The research promotes a call to action for community colleges to challenge assumptions, offer personalized support, and prioritize continuous professional development for instructors. Acknowledging the far-reaching influence of computer literacy on both academic, personal and professional success, the study underscores the critical need for ensuring equitable access to technology, skill-building training and resources to address current disparities

Clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy as an adjunct to pharmacotherapy for treatment-resistant depression in primary care: the CoBalT randomised controlled trial

Background: Only one-third of patients with depression respond fully to treatment with antidepressant medication. However, there is little robust evidence to guide the management of those whose symptoms are 'treatment resistant'.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Objective: The CoBalT trial examined the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as an adjunct to usual care (including pharmacotherapy) for primary care patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) compared with usual care alone.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Design: Pragmatic, multicentre individually randomised controlled trial with follow-up at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. A subset took part in a qualitative study investigating views and experiences of CBT, reasons for completing/not completing therapy, and usual care for TRD.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Setting: General practices in Bristol, Exeter and Glasgow, and surrounding areas.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Participants: Patients aged 18-75 years who had TRD [on antidepressants for 6 weeks, had adhered to medication, Beck Depression Inventory, 2nd version (BDI-II) score of 14 and fulfilled the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth edition criteria for depression]. Individuals were excluded who (1) had bipolar disorder/psychosis or major alcohol/substance abuse problems; (2) were unable to complete the questionnaires; or (3) were pregnant, as were those currently receiving CBT/other psychotherapy/secondary care for depression, or who had received CBT in the past 3 years.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Interventions: Participants were randomised, using a computer-generated code, to usual care or CBT (12-18 sessions) in addition to usual care.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Main outcome measures: The primary outcome was 'response', defined as 50% reduction in depressive symptoms (BDI-II score) at 6 months compared with baseline. Secondary outcomes included BDI-II score as a continuous variable, remission of symptoms (BDI-II score of &lt; 10), quality of life, anxiety and antidepressant use at 6 and 12 months. Data on health and social care use, personal costs, and time off work were collected at 6 and 12 months. Costs from these three perspectives were reported using a cost-consequence analysis. A cost-utility analysis compared health and social care costs with quality adjusted life-years.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Results: A total of 469 patients were randomised (intervention: n = 234; usual care: n = 235), with 422 participants (90%) and 396 (84%) followed up at 6 and 12 months. Ninety-five participants (46.1%) in the intervention group met criteria for 'response' at 6 months compared with 46 (21.6%) in the usual-care group {odds ratio [OR] 3.26 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.10 to 5.06], p &lt; 0.001}. In repeated measures analyses using data from 6 and 12 months, the OR for 'response' was 2.89 (95% CI 2.03 to 4.10, p &lt; 0.001) and for a secondary 'remission' outcome (BDI-II score of &lt; 10) 2.74 (95% CI 1.82 to 4.13, p &lt; 0.001). The mean cost of CBT per participant was £910, the incremental health and social care cost £850, the incremental QALY gain 0.057 and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio £14,911. Forty participants were interviewed. Patients described CBT as challenging but helping them to manage their depression; listed social, emotional and practical reasons for not completing treatment; and described usual care as mainly taking medication.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt; Conclusions: Among patients who have not responded to antidepressants, augmenting usual care with CBT is effective in reducing depressive symptoms, and these effects, including outcomes reflecting remission, are maintained over 12 months. The intervention was cost-effective based on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence threshold. Patients may experience CBT as difficult but effective. Further research should evaluate long-term effectiveness, as this would have major implications for the recommended treatment of depression.&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt

Contact & connect-an intervention to reduce depression stigma and symptoms in construction workers: protocol for a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Males employed in the construction industry have high rates of suicide. Although reasons underpinning this risk are multifaceted, poor help-seeking and stigma are represent major contributors. Males in the construction industry are also exposed to other risk factors for mental ill health and suicide, including unemployment. Sigma-reducing interventions that are accessible and attractive to recently unemployed males in the construction industry could therefore improve help-seeking, and address depression and suicidal behaviour in this population. METHODS/DESIGN: Contact&amp;Connect will use a parallel individual randomized design to evaluate the effectiveness of a multimedia-based intervention aimed at reducing stigma. The intervention consists of a package of 12 brief contact interventions (BCIs) delivered over a six month period. BCIs will direct participants to informational programs and microsites. Content will address three major themes: debunking depression myths and stereotypes, normalisation, and empowerment. Target enrolment is 630 (315 in each arm), each to be followed for 12&nbsp;months. Eligible participants will be males, between 30 and 64&nbsp;years, unemployed at the time of recruitment, registered with Incolink (a social welfare trustee company for unemployed members of the construction industry), and own a smart phone with enabled internet connectivity. DISCUSSION: At present, there are no programs that have been shown to be effective in reducing stigma in the blue-collar male population. Contact&amp;Connect promises to provide a tailored, efficient, and scalable approach to reducing stigma, depressive symptoms and suicidality among unemployed males. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Register ACTRN12615000792527&nbsp; (date of registration: 30 July, 2015)

Novel pathogenic COX20 variants causing dysarthria, ataxia, and sensory neuropathy.

COX20/FAM36A encodes a mitochondrial complex IV assembly factor important for COX2 activation. Only one homozygous COX20 missense mutation has been previously described in two separate consanguineous families. We report four subjects with features that include childhood hypotonia, areflexia, ataxia, dysarthria, dystonia, and sensory neuropathy. Exome sequencing in all four subjects identified the same novel COX20 variants. One variant affected the splice donor site of intron-one (c.41A&gt;G), while the other variant (c.157+3G&gt;C) affected the splice donor site of intron-two. cDNA and protein analysis indicated that no full-length cDNA or protein was generated. These subjects expand the phenotype associated with COX20 deficiency

Creating an enabling environment for research impact (REACH Discussion document)

Research should benefit society: that is widely accepted. There has been much written on how to design research to deliver impact through equitable partnerships, co-production, and more. However, there has been less reflection on the enabling environment that funders and universities create to support research to have impact. In this brief we explore the experiences of creating impact through research in international development, and the ways in which the enabling environment facilitated impact drawing on perspectives of researchers, research users from government and UN agencies, and funders. We highlight three areas for funders to focus on strengthening enabling environments: (1) foster science-practitioner networks, (2) enhance collaborative research environments based on equitable partnerships, and (3) shift financing and incentives to sustain partnerships for impact at scale