Syed Nizamuddin Ahmed

Suboptimal cognitive states among construction workers significantly impact safety and productivity, with mental workload playing a key role in triggering these states. Determining if the mental workload fluctuation is leading to an error is challenging as the relationship between mental workload and suboptimal cognitive states is complex and non-linear, with traditional theories failing to map their fluctuations effectively. Recently, a two-dimensional space has been introduced to theoretically map mental workload fluctuations and suboptimal cognitive states using task engagement and arousal. However, there is currently no framework in place to continuously apply this theoretical knowledge in practical settings. To address this gap, this study investigates the feasibility of EEG-based frameworks for classifying four different cognitive states, namely comfort zone, mind wandering, effort withdrawal, and inattentional blindness, based on mental workload fluctuations. EEG signals were collected from 10 participants using a headset with dry electrodes, processed to extract relevant features, and classified using Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models. The ANN achieved superior performance in k-fold and leave one period out validation methods, though accuracy declined in leave one subject out validation. These findings underscore the potential of EEG-based differentiation of cognitive suboptimalities to enhance safety and productivity in construction by providing crucial information about when construction workers are most likely to make cognitive errors, which is essential for timely and appropriate interventions. Also, the low subject independent accuracy emphasizes the need to address individual differences in EEG signals for broader applicability.

Two of the major revolutions of this century are the Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. These technologies are penetrating through all disciplines and faculties at a very rapid pace. The application of these technologies in medicine, specifically in the context of Covid 19 is paramount. This article briefly reviews the commonly applied protocols in the Health Care System and provides a perspective in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the current system. This article is not meant to provide a literature review of the current technology but rather provides a personal perspective of the author regarding what could happen in the ideal situation.

To the Editor: Day et al. (March 21 issue)¹ present a comprehensive video regarding examination of the hand and wrist. However, the technique they demonstrate for conducting a sensory examination for light touch on the patient’s digits is lacking. When a clinician conducts a sensory examination, a useful technique is to use a wisp of paper towel or tissue paper. The test is performed with the use of a light touch (not with rubbing, as shown in the video). The stimulus is applied vertically (touch), not horizontally (as in rubbing). Subtle sensory deficits may be easily missed with the technique . . .

Summary: Purpose: Cost analysis and patient satisfaction with telemedicine in epilepsy care. Methods: This controlled study included out‐of‐town epilepsy patients coming to follow‐up at the University of Alberta hospital epilepsy clinic. After an informed consent, patients were randomized to either conventional (n = 18) or telemedicine (n = 23) clinics. Patients or caregivers filled patient satisfaction and travel cost questionnaires in both alternatives. Cost per visit analysis included costs of traveling, lodging, and lost productivity. Results: Average age of the population was 41 years (range 19–73; 45% women). Eighty‐three percent of patients preferred their next visit through telemedicine. About 90% of patients indicated a need for companion travel (mainly by car) to conventional clinic. For the conventional group patients the value of lost productivity was CAD $201, hotel cost CAD $8.50, and the value of car mileage CAD $256.50, totaling about CAD $466.00. Patient costs for telemedicine were CAD $35.85. Telemedicine production costs are similar to the patients' savings in traveling and lost productivity. About 90% of patients in both groups were satisfied with the quality of the service. Conclusion: Telemedicine can play a role in follow‐up care of epilepsy patients, reduce patient costs, and improve patient satisfaction. This is the first full‐time epilepsy telemedicine clinic in Western Canada.