Computational analysis of dynamics in an agent-based model of cognitive load and reading performance

To avoid the development of cognitive load during task-specific actions, technologies like companion robots or intelligent systems may benefit from being aware of the dynamics of related mental performance constructs. As a first step toward the development of such systems, this paper uses an agent-based approach to formalize and simulate cognitive load processes within reading activities, which may involve specific assigned task. The obtained agent-based model is analysed both by mathematical analysis and automated trace evaluation. Based on this description, the proposed agent-based model has exhibited realistic behaviours patterns that adhere to the psychological and cognitive literature. Moreover, it is shown how the agent-based model can be integrated into intelligent systems that monitor and predict cognitive load over time and propose intelligent support actions based on that

La place de la médiastinotomie antérieure dans le diagnostic des tumeurs médiastinales et médiastino-pulmonaires.

Introduction : Malgré le développement des techniques de biopsie mini-invasives, la médiastinotomie antérieure reste la technique de choix pour la biopsie des masses médiastinales antérieures. Matériel et méthodes : Il s'agit d'une rétrospective, intéressant toutes les médiastinotomies antérieures réalisées au service de chirurgie Thoracique du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hassan II de Fès, sur une période de 4 ans (de février 2009 à février 2013). Résultats : Au cours de cette période la médiastinotomie antérieure a été réalisée chez 33 patients. Il s’agissait de 24 hommes et 9 femmes, âgés de 15 à 70 ans avec un âge moyen de 38 ans. La symptomatologie clinique a été dominée par la toux, la dyspnée et la douleur thoracique. Tous nos patients avaient bénéficié d’une radiographie thoracique de face et d’une TDM thoracique, qui avaient montré une masse médiastinale antérieure. Elle a permis de confirmer le diagnostic histologique chez tous nos patients, et rectifier ou redresser le diagnostic chez 8 patients (24%). Les suites opératoires étaient simples chez 33 patients soit 100%. Le taux de mortalité était nul (0%) et aucune complication n’a été rencontrée dans notre série. Conclusion : La médiastinotomie antérieure reste la technique de choix pour l'exploration des masses médiastinales antérieures et parfois médiastino-pulmonaires, à priori inextirpables

Frequency and characteristics of chronic fatigue syndrome in multiple sclerosis patients at a university hospital in Eastern Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory demyelinating disease that affects various parts of the central nervous system. Fatigue, a common symptom, transient, prolonged, or chronic experienced by individuals with MS, can significantly impact daily functioning. It can be associated with underlying pathological processes or can have an idiopathic cause, such as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The study aimed to assess the presence and etiology of fatigue in MS patients and its relationship with CFS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a questionnaire from a sample of 225 MS patients receiving care at our university hospital. The questionnaire included the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria for diagnosing CFS and the Expanded Disability Status Scale to evaluate fatigue in MS patients. RESULTS: Of the total of 225 MS patients who participated in this study, 87.1% were diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS, 6.7% with primary progressive MS, 3.6% with clinically isolated syndrome, and 2.7% with secondary progressive MS. About 53% had experienced fatigue that persisted for over 6 months. Analysis of CFS diagnosis revealed that 7.3% of patients met both CDC criteria and self-reported answers while 17.5% reported having CFS despite not meeting the CDC criteria. These findings highlight a significant lack of agreement between patient-reported diagnoses and established criteria, indicating poor agreement (P = 0.028). CONCLUSION: The study found an association between CFS and MS, and a significant impact on daily functioning. The study revealed lack of agreement between patient-reported diagnoses and established criteria for CFS. This emphasizes the need for a standardized approach to diagnosis and evaluation of fatigue in MS patients