Capsule-Based Persian/Arabic Robust Handwritten Digit Recognition Using EM Routing

In this paper, the problem of handwritten digit recognition has been addressed. However, the underlying language is Persian/Arabic, and the system with which this task is a capsule network (CapsNet) has recently emerged as a more advanced architecture than its ancestor, namely CNN (Convolutional Neural Network). The training of the architecture is performed using the Hoda dataset, which has been provided for Persian/Arabic handwritten digits. The output of the system clearly outperforms the results achieved by its ancestors, as well as other previously presented recognition algorithms.Comment: 5 pages, 10 figures, 4th International Conference on Pattern Recognition and Image Analysis (IPRIA2019), IEE

Severe Immune Thrombocytopenia Complicated by Intracerebral Haemorrhage Associated with Coronavirus Infection: A Case Report and Literature Review

IImmune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder that causes isolated thrombocytopenia. Many viruses have been identified as triggering the autoimmune process, including HIV, MCV, EBV, parvovirus, rubella and measles. However, ITP in association with coronavirus infection has not previously been reported. We describe the case of a healthy man who presented with severe ITP complicated by intracranial haemorrhage following upper respiratory tract infection. An infection screen revealed coronavirus infection

Tuberculoid Leprosy with External Jugular Vein Thrombosis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Thrombotic disease represents a rare manifestation of leprosy. In this study, we report the case of an external jugular vein thrombosis associated with tuberculoid leprosy in a 23-year-old male patient. The patient presented with a 3-month history of painful cord-like swelling on the left side of the neck and a nearly 3-week history of skin lesions on the left cheek and right leg. Physical examination revealed cord-like, tender swelling on the left lateral aspect of the neck overlying the sternocleidomastoid muscle, and a hypopigmented, hypoaesthetic 6×7 cm lesion with an irregular margin on the left cheek. A Doppler ultrasound examination of the jugular vein showed thrombosis of the left external jugular vein. Three-dimensional reconstruction of the computed tomography scan showed the enlarged and enhanced left external jugular vein, as well as 1 of its tributaries, and the thickened skin patch. A skin punch biopsy from the left cheek lesion revealed granulomatous inflammation with occasional peri-adnexal granulomas, consistent with the clinical impression of tuberculoid leprosy. A diagnosis of leprosy with external jugular vein thrombosis was established. Anticoagulation therapy was initiated, and the patient was referred to an infectious disease clinic for treatment with anti-leprosy medications

It is all about patients' stories: Case-based learning in residents' education

Background: Problem-based learning (PBL) is an inquiry-based learning strategy which is learner centered and facilitates group discussion and critical thinking. Case-based learning (CBL), which is a more guided approach of PBL, enables students to learn within the context of patients and formulate their knowledge around patients' scenarios. Midweek (MW) activity is an important educational activity in the internal medicine residency program (IMRP). CBL has shown many benefits in postgraduate education. The aim of our study was to describe the implementation of a teaching resident's management of acute medical conditions encountered during their call utilizing the CBL format and to evaluate resident satisfaction with the new teaching style. Methods: This study describes the implementation of CBL in residents' education at the IMRP. CBL was introduced in five of the 10 acute medical sessions taught in the noon activity. A mixed-method study was employed using both a structured questionnaire and a focus group to compare the two methods to evaluate the residents' satisfaction and perception of knowledge acquisition. Results: The focus group discussion showed that sessions conducted in CBL format were more engaging, interactive, and resulted in better knowledge acquisition through sharing and peer-to-peer teaching than the traditional lecture format. Thirty-nine out of 83 (47%) residents ranging from PGY2 to PGY4 responded to the survey. Overall satisfaction with CBL was good. Sixty-four percent preferred it over the lecture format; 87% found that they did improve their knowledge; 84% agreed that they were excellent and more interactive. Seventy-nine percent stated that they would like to have this type of teaching in the MW activity sessions. Conclusion: Based on the present study, we conclude that incorporation of CBL resulted in more engagement, interaction, peer-to-peer education, and overall residents' satisfaction. The key elements for a successful implementation of this format are both instructors' and residents' orientation and careful selection of the case scenarios (problems) that trigger the learning process. Incorporation of various teaching strategies in residents' education is mandatory to enhance learning and create excellent educational experiences.qscienc