Understanding the complex spatiotemporal dynamics of action potential propagation in the heart during arrhythmia is exceedingly difficult. This study applies nonlinear dynamics tools to simplify this task. Using the results of a simulation of an electrical induction of reentry in a sheet of myocardium represented as a bidomain, transmembrane voltage maps are processed to obtain: (i) spatial maps of phase angle and phase singularity trajectories, (ii) state scatter plots, and (iii) spatial maps of even phase resetting, wave fronts and wave tails. Tracking the phase singularities allows us to identify the "seeds" of reentry before the reentrant circuit is formed and to characterize the spatiotemporal evolution of the organizing center of the reentrant circuit. The state scatter plots demonstrate the effect of the shock on the instantaneous state of the system. The spatial maps of even phase resetting allow us to identify the shock-induced excitable gaps (regions of regenerative repolarization) as well as the regions directly activated by the shock. These nontraditional approaches to the analysis of electrophysiological phenomena greatly enhance our ability to conceptualize the dynamics of arrhythmias.
The influence of iPad compared to computer-based active and collaborative learning activities on academic performance, along with student attitudes toward technology, engagement, and perceived learning were examined between two one-semester undergraduate-level Human Anatomy classes. Student attitudes and perceived learning were assessed using pre- and post-semester surveys between two simultaneous classes: iPad-integrated (n = 24) and no-iPad (n = 21). No-iPad users reported higher attainment of course objectives (human anatomy factual knowledge, principles and theories, and application of material) than iPad users. IPad users also reported lower levels of course engagement following fifteen weeks of usage whereas no-iPad users reported higher levels of engagement. Both groups showed similar learning gains based on test scores, and final grades. This article explores potential explanations for discrepancies with some previous research by highlighting the importance of consistent instructional methods, regardless of media, in undergraduate education.
The influence of iPad compared to computer-based active and collaborative learning activities on academic performance, along with student attitudes toward technology, engagement, and perceived learning were examined between two one-semester undergraduate-level Human Anatomy classes. Student attitudes and perceived learning were assessed using pre- and post-semester surveys between two simultaneous classes: iPad-integrated (n = 24) and no-iPad (n = 21). No-iPad users reported higher attainment of course objectives (human anatomy factual knowledge, principles and theories, and application of material) than iPad users. IPad users also reported lower levels of course engagement following fifteen weeks of usage whereas no-iPad users reported higher levels of engagement. Both groups showed similar learning gains based on test scores, and final grades. This article explores potential explanations for discrepancies with some previous research by highlighting the importance of consistent instructional methods, regardless of media, in undergraduate education.
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