BIODEVICES 2008 Abstracts

Full Papers Short Papers
Full Papers
Paper Nr: 30
Title:

TREATMENT OF MITRAL VALVE INSUFFICIENCY BY SHAPE MEMORY POLYMER BASED ACTIVE ANNULOPLASTY
Authors:

Pilar Lafont Morgado, Andres Diaz Lantada, Héctor Lorenzo-Yustos, Julio Muñoz-García, Ignacio Rada Martínez, Antonio Jiménez Ramos and José Luis Hernández Riesco
Abstract: Active materials are capable of responding in a controlled way to different external physical or chemical stimuli by changing some of their properties. These materials can be used to design and develop sensors, actuators and multifunctional systems with a large number of applications for developing medical devices. (for both surgery and implants). Shape memory polymers are active materials with thermo-mechanical coupling (changes in temperature induce shape changes) and a capacity to recover from high levels of distortion, (much greater than that shown by shape memory alloys), which combined with a lower density and cost has favoured the appearance of numerous applications. In many cases, these materials are of medical grade, which increases the chances of obtaining biocompatible devices. This paper presents the design, manufacture, “shape memory” programming process and in vitro trials of an active annuloplasty ring for the treatment of mitral valve insufficiency, developed by using shape memory polymers. This has been done with the collaboration betweeen researchers from Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and doctors from the Hospital General Central de la Defensa.
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Paper Nr: 40
Title:

MACHINE BIOLOGICAL CLOCK - The Time Dimension in a Organic-Based Operating System
Authors:

Mauro M. Mattos
Abstract: A Knowledge-Based Operating System is an embodied, situated, adaptive and autonomic system based on knowledge abstraction which has identity and intelligent behavior when executed. We have identified three dimensions over which such a new operating system paradigm has to be based: (i) physical dimension, (ii) logical dimension, and (iii) temporal dimension. The physical dimension describes the physical components and their structural relationship. The logical dimension describes the functional characteristics of each physical component and the time dimension is provided in order to enable the entire system to perceive the time flow – as a biological clock in human beings. This work presents the Machine Biological Clock concept.
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Paper Nr: 44
Title:

NOVEL HAPTIC TOOL AND INPUT DEVICE FOR BILATERAL BIOMANIPULATION ADDRESSING ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY
Authors:

K. Houston, O. Tonet, C. Eder, A. Menciassi, P. Dario and A. Sieber
Abstract: In this paper a teleoperation system is presented which consists of a sensorised polymer microgripper as a suitable end effector on an endoscopic microinstrument which is controlled by a novel tweezer-like haptic input device. This tweezer device gives the operator the ability to remotely feel these forces generated by grasping operations with the microgripper. This feedback is used to control the amount of force applied in manipulation of tissues during the procedure. The mechanical and electronic design of the microgripper, microinstrument and haptic tweezers is also presented and preliminary results detailed.
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Paper Nr: 46
Title:

MULTIPARAMETER SINGLE LOCUS INTEGRATED MULTILAYER POLYMER MICROSENSOR SYSTEM
Authors:

Yindar Chuo and Bozena Kaminska
Abstract: Miniaturization and microintegration is well known for their potentials in providing microsystems and sensors with unmatched performance, reliability, and lower costs. Current technologies in implementation of microsensors, however, span a large variety of platforms. It is thus common for microsensors measuring differing parameters to exist on different combinations of substrates, not to even mention the associated signal conditioning, processing, and data communication electronics. It remains a challenge to integrate multiple sensors with complex electronics into a single high-density microsystem, particularly for certain applications in medical diagnostics and healthcare, where mechanical flexibility of the substrate and biocompatibility also becomes crucial considerations. Traditional microintegration technologies such as system-in-package, system-on-chip, and advanced assembly and packaging, may often be inadequate. A mutliparameter single locus integrated multilayer polymer microsensor system is proposed to address the fundamental issues of high-density integration, flexibility, biocompatibility, easy application, high sensitivity, and reliability for medical grade diagnostics and other physiological applications. The architecture of the multilayer system is discussed, as well, implementation and fabrication of the multisensor layer is demonstrated, and the results on performance discussed.
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Paper Nr: 51
Title:

A MECHATRONIC DEVICE FOR THE REHABILITATION OF ANKLE MOTION
Authors:

Giuseppe Bucca, Alberto Bezzolato, Stefano Bruni and Franco Molteni
Abstract: The paper presents the main results from a research aiming at the design of an electro-mechanical actuator to assist walking movements of the ankle articulation, for use in the rehabilitation of lower limb motion in patients suffering neurological disease. Motivations for the research project are discussed within the framework of the application of mechatronic concepts within rehabilitation practice. The entire design process is then described, from the definition of project target through the mechanical concept and control design steps until design validation by means of numerical simulations and tests on a prototype.
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Paper Nr: 54
Title:

BRAIN COMPUTER INTERFACE - Comparison of Neural Networks Classifiers
Authors:

José Luis Martínez Pérez and Antonio Barrientos Cruz
Abstract: Brain Computer Interface is an emerging technology that allows new output paths to communicate the user’s intentions without use of normal output ways, such as muscles or nerves(Wolpaw, J. R.; et al., 2002). In order to obtain its objective BCI devices shall make use of classifier which translate the inputs provided by user’s brain signal to commands for external devices. The primary uses of this technology will benefit persons with some kind blocking disease as for example: ALS, brainstem stroke, severe cerebral palsy (Donchin et al., 2000). This report describes three different classifiers based on three different types of neural networks: Radial Basis Functions RBF , Probabilistic Neural Networks PNN, and Multi-Layer Perceptrons MLP. The report compares the results produced by them in order to obtain conclusions to apply to an on-line BCI device, it also describes the experimental procedure followed in the experiments. As result of the tests carried out on five healthy volunteers an estimation of the success rate for each type of classifier, the type and architecture of the classifier, and filtering windows are established.
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Paper Nr: 72
Title:

BIOMATERIAL FOR SOFT TISSUE REPLACEMENTS
Authors:

David Ku and Jin Wu Fan
Abstract: Typical biomaterials are stiff, difficult to manufacture, and not initially developed for medical implants. A new biomaterial is proposed that is similar to human soft tissue. The biomaterial provides mechanical properties similar to soft tissue in its mechanical and physical properties. Characterization is performed for modulus of elasticity, ultimate strength and wear resistance. The material further exhibits excellent biocompatibility with little toxicity and low inflammation. The material can be molded into a variety of anatomic shapes for use as a cartilage replacement, heart valve, and reconstructive implant for trauma victims. The biomaterial may be suitable for several biodevices of the future aimed at soft-tissue replacements.
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Paper Nr: 106
Title:

PRECLINICAL TESTING OF A NEW VENOUS VALVE
Authors:

Laura-Lee Farrell and David Ku
Abstract: Venous valvular incompetency is a debilitating disease affecting millions of patients. Unfortunately, the current physiologic and surgical treatments are prone to the extreme risk of post-operative thrombosis. A new design for venous valves has been proposed using biomimicry. The medical device has the shape of a natural valve with sufficient elasticity to maintain patency and competency in the leg veins. The venous valve was tested for patency, competency, cyclic fatigue, compressibility, and thrombogenicity. Patency is maintained with a low opening pressure of less than 3 mmHg. Competency is maintained with backpressures exceeding 300 mmHg. The valve is fatigue resistant to over ¼ million cycles. The valve can maintain its integrity when compressed in a stent and deployed without tilting or mal-alignment. Little thrombus forms on the valve with perfusion of whole blood under pulsatile flow conditions. The pre- clinical tests demonstrate efficacy as a new venous valve for treatment of chronic venous insufficiency.
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Paper Nr: 131
Title:

NOVEL CONTROLLER FOR REBREATHER DIVING SYSTEMS - True Sensor Signal Validation and Safe Oxygen Injection
Authors:

Arne Sieber, B. Koss, R. Bedini, K. Houston, A. L’Abbate and P. Dario
Abstract: In electronically controlled closed rebreather diving systems the partial pressure of oxygen (p O2) inside the loop is controlled with 3 pO2 sensors, a microcontroller and a solenoid valve, critical components that are prone to fail. State of the art failure detection integrated in rebreather diving systems for recreational purposes does not offer the necessary reliability required for life sustaining systems. The present paper describes a novel controller that combines true sensor signal validation with safe oxygen injection.
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Paper Nr: 145
Title:

COMPUTER-CONTROLLED NEUROSTIMULATION FOR A VISUAL IMPLANT
Authors:

Samuel Romero, Christian Morillas, Francisco Pelayo and Eduardo Fernández
Abstract: Current research in therapies for restoring a functional form of sight to the blind includes interfacing electronic neurostimulators with some point of the visual pathway. This approach requires controlling a number of waveform parameters which might vary for every implanted patient and for every channel in an interface that may have hundred or thousands of electrodes. Therefore, the clinical, acute research stage of the implant should be controlled in a flexible and easy way, in order to obtain the information that will lead to a chronic implantable device. We describe such a system, based on a PC connected to an electronic neurostimulator, which delivers bi-phasic pulses to a set of implanted microelectrodes. This platform performs an automated patient-driven procedure to find stimulation thresholds. The system implements a set of physchophysical tests in order to determine the properties of the elicited visual perceptions, and applies an automatic re-mapping of the electrodes to obtain better recognizable patterns of percepts. Our platform can interface some other tools oriented to obtain, in a next research stage, a portable and chronic version of the visual implant.
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Paper Nr: 159
Title:

ANIMAL STUDIES USING AN OXYGEN-TENSION SENSOR FOR TISSUE VIABILITY MONITORING
Authors:

Dafina Tanase, Niels Komen, Arie Draaijer, Johan F. Lange, Gert-Jan Kleinrensink, Johannes Jeekel and Paddy French
Abstract: Leakage at the site of an anastomosis is the main, yet unsolved reason for mortality in abdominal surgery. Every year, a large number of patients die due to anastomotic leakage after surgery. An objective aid to monitor the anastomotic site pre- and postoperatively and detect leakage at an early stage, is needed. Therefore, a miniature, wireless measurement system to detect tissue viability during and after colon surgery (continuously for 7 days) is being developed. The complete sensor chip should include an oxygen-saturation sensor (sO2), an oxygen-tension sensor (pO2), a carbon-dioxide tension sensor (pCO2) and a temperature sensor. The present work focuses on the use of the oxygen-tension and temperature sensors for animal studies. Initial in-vivo measurements were carried out on the small and large intestines of male wistar rats. The main goal was to measure the distribution of pO2 on the colon around the anastomosis and to determine the changes in pO2 during repetitive ischemia-and-reperfusion experiments on the small intestine. The paper presents the obtained measurement results.
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Paper Nr: 196
Title:

AUTOREGRESSIVE FEATURES FOR A THOUGHT-TO-SPEECH CONVERTER
Authors:

Nicoletta Nicolaou, Julius Georgiou and Marios Polycarpou
Abstract: This paper presents our investigations towards a non-invasive custom-built thought-to-speech converter that decodes mental tasks into morse code, text and then speech. The proposed system is aimed primarily at people who have lost their ability to communicate via conventional means. The investigations presented here are part of our greater search for an appropriate set of features, classifiers and mental tasks that would maximise classification accuracy in such a system. Here Autoregressive (AR) coefficients and Power Spectral Density (PSD) features have been classified using a Support Vector Machine (SVM). The classification accuracy was higher with AR features compared to PSD. In addition, the use of an SVM to classify the AR coefficients increased the classification rate by up to 16.3% compared to that reported in different work, where other classifiers were used. It was also observed that the combination of mental tasks for which highest classification was obtained varied from subject to subject; hence the mental tasks to be used should be carefully chosen to match each subject.
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Paper Nr: 211
Title:

MEMS ANTENNA FOR WIRELESS BIOMEDICAL MICROSYSTEMS - Extremely Small Antenna for RF Receivers in Implantable Devices
Authors:

Paulo Mendes and L. A. Rocha
Abstract: This paper presents an extremely small antenna, together with its model, for wireless biomedical devices. Most of the implantable devices require very small dimensions. On way to achieve it is to use microtechnologies to obtain the required size reduction. One of the most challenging devices to integrate is the antenna, required if we want to communicate with the device trough a wireless link. The proposed antenna uses a MEMS structure to convert the incoming electromagnetic field into a voltage. This antenna allows the reception of signals using a carrier in the kHz range and uses only a chip area of 2x2 mm2.
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Short Papers
Paper Nr: 3
Title:

A NOVEL DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A SINGLE CHANNEL INTEGRATED DIGITAL BODY SOUND DATA ACQUISITION DEVICE
Authors:

Ali Alouani, Omar Elkeelany and Mohammed S. Abdallah
Abstract: This paper discusses the design, development, and testing of an integrated compact digital stethoscope capable of performing body sound measurement and processing without the need of a personnel computer and hardware interface. The cost of the proposed device is a fraction of that of the data acquisition system used with current digital stethoscopes to collect body sound, such as lung sound, in a digital format. Preliminary testing of the device shows faithful reproduction of the body sound signals used. Not only the new design strategy saves hardware, space, and power consumption but also it allows for the signal processing and data interpretation in the same device. This is due to the proposed integrated design of the subsystems involved in the data acquisition process. It also has the capability of sending collected data to remote location through the Internet.
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Paper Nr: 8
Title:

METHODOLOGY AND SYSTEM OF EVALUATING THE DRIVER’S VIGILANCE LEVEL IN AN AUTOMOBILE TRANSPORTATION EXAMINING BOTH PHYSIOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL DATA
Authors:

Alessandro Giusti, C. Zocchi and Alberto Rovetta
Abstract: This paper deals with the methodology followed in order to design a new intelligent system to improve the driver’s safety in an automobile transportation and the actual realization of a first prototype. The results of the study are reported. A simulator system has been developed at the Robotics Laboratory of the “Politecnico di Milano”. A description of the necessary hardware and architecture is made in detail. Driver’s physiological data, acquired from sensors on the wheel, is correlated, using statistical multivariate analysis, with his/her vigilance level evaluated using polysomnography. This statistical model is applied on the data off-line in order to define a controller, to be applied on real time acquired data. The platform’s mechanical data is also acquired and studied. All the elaboration of the data results in one vigilance level index for the current driver and situation. Future steps and possibilities are also discussed.
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Paper Nr: 24
Title:

DIFFERENTIAL ELECTRIC FIELD SENSITIVE FIELD EFFECT TRANSISTOR - Characteristics, Modeling and Applications
Authors:

Yehya H. Ghallab and Wael Badawy
Abstract: This paper presents the Differential Electric Field Sensitive Field Effect Transistor (DeFET) as a CMOS electric field sensor. The DeFET is based on a standard 0.18-µm Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) CMOS technology. This paper also presents the DeFET’s DC and AC models. The experimental and simulation results which validate the different models of the DeFET are presented. Moreover, some applications of the DeFET on the biomedical and lab-on-a-chip are presented.
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Paper Nr: 27
Title:

EFFICIENT EVALUATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF ELECTRIC PULSE CHARACTERISTICS ON THE DYNAMICS OF CELL TRANS-MEMBRANE VOLTAGE
Authors:

Nunziante Citro, Luigi Egiziano, Patrizia Lamberti and Vincenzo Tucci
Abstract: This paper aims at presenting a systematic approach for evaluating the effects induced on the dynamics of the Trans-Membrane Voltage of a biological cell by the characteristics of the non-ideal (trapezoidal) applied electric pulses. The proposed methodology is based on a combined use of the Design of Experiments (DoE) and Response Surface Methodology that allows to put in evidence the self and mutual effects produced by the characteristic parameters of the pulse (slew rate, the total duration of the impulse and its amplitude) on the time evolution of the Trans-Membrane Voltage (TMV). In particular, the effects on the max instantaneous value of the TMV are analysed: its qualitative behaviour vs. the considered parameters, the combination of parameters leading to the highest amplitude and the most influencing parameter are identified with an efficient search based on an optimal set of numerical trials. The analysis concerning the dependence of the max value of TMV on the pulse parameters is performed by considering either a basic Hodgkin-Huxley (HH) circuit or a modified one taking also into account the electroporation phenomenon.
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Paper Nr: 35
Title:

MEASURING THE FORCES APPLIED TO A VIRTUAL REALITY LAPAROSCOPIC SURGICAL SIMULATOR WITH QUANTUM TUNNELLING COMPOSITE SENSORS
Authors:

Ian Mack, Karen Mcmenemy, Stuart Ferguson, Stephen Potts and Alistair Dick
Abstract: Abdominal surgery performed by laparoscopy requires a very high degree of skill in the surgeon. This skill level can only be acquired through practice and training. However, a virtual reality (VR) training simulator commands a high price. There is no reason for a VR simulator to be expensive, as a modern personal computer can produce high-quality graphics. If all that was required was good graphics, every surgeon could have a training tool within their laptop computer. What is missing is suitable low-cost human interface hardware – the equivalent of the computer game ‘joystick’. This paper presents a design for a low cost device to address this issue. In order to provide force feedback, the forces exerted on the surgical instruments have to be measured by sensors mounted at various points. The sensors are constructed from quantum tunnelling composite pills which measure the pressure applied to them by the surgeon. The force feedback is produced by small direct current motors. The low cost design has been tested by both specialist laparoscopic surgeons and non surgical personnel to assess its benefits in training at different levels of expertise. A preliminary qualitative report is given which documents the findings from these initial tests.
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Paper Nr: 42
Title:

A NEW INSTRUMENTED BIOLOGICAL DEVICE DESIGNED TO APPLY MECHANICAL SHOCKS TO BONE CELLS
Authors:

Laurent Navarro, Jean-charles Pinoli, Henri Besset, René Guyonnet, Laurence Vico and Alain Guignandon
Abstract: A new device called biomechanical stimulation device (BSD) has been recently developped and is under patenting process. This BSD allows to apply shocks to a biomaterial disc, on which bone cells have been seeded. To observe the real behaviour of the biomaterial under shock loading, the BSD is instrumented with an impact hammer and an accelerometer. Force and acceleration signals are recorded, and signal analysis can be performed, in particular Fourier analysis. The results obtained lead to a better understanding of the stimulus that the cells can perceive at the top surface of the biomaterial disc. It appears that mechanical shocks applied at 1 Hps (Hit per second) or 10 Hps generate a frequency content up to 35 kHz. The main further objective will be to characterize the influence of mechanical shocks on bone cells proliferation.
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Paper Nr: 49
Title:

SENSORIZED MICROCATHETER - Smart Microinstrumentation Adressing Fetal Surgery – First Results
Authors:

Arne Sieber, K. Houston, A. Menciassi, G. Nauer and P. Dario
Abstract: Pulmonary Atresia is a malfunction that is diagnosed in about 1 out of 20.000 fetus. The authors propose a novel surgical intervention where the fetal heart is accessed with an endoscopic intervention through the umbilical cord. The key for this innovative procedure is a novel micro-catheter that is equipped with sensor and actuators that allow active navigation inside the heart and also tissue characterisation. The present paper presents the first prototype.
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Paper Nr: 50
Title:

FORCE MEASUREMENT DURING GAIT THERAPY ASSISTED BY A ROBOTIC TREADMILL - The Case of Lokomat®
Authors:

Marco Bocciolone, Massimiliano Lurati, Marcello Vanali and Franco Molteni
Abstract: The present paper deals with force measurement during gait therapy assisted by a special robotic treadmill with driven robotic orthoses that guide inferior limbs movements. The objectives, the measurement setup and the results are presented. This work has been carried out in order to gather data necessary to begin the analysis and the design of a new ankle motion device. The presented results also show how these measurements can be useful in gait parameters assessment and patient’s muscle activity level.
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Paper Nr: 53
Title:

SCREEN-PRINTED SENSOR FOR CHLORIDE QUANTIFICATION IN SWEAT FOR EARLY DETERMINATION OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Authors:

Javier Gonzalo Ruiz, Roser Mas and F. Javier Muñoz
Abstract: One-use screen-printed sensor capable to generate sweat and measure the chloride concentration is presented. Sweat is induced by iontophoresis, pilocarpine is forced to get into de skin and stimulate the sweat glands. Chloride concentration is measured by potentiometry. The performance of the devices has been tested by means of reproducibility studies. Finally, the application of these sensors in several volunteers has been carried out. Errors less than 10% have been obtained in real samples.
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Paper Nr: 57
Title:

NEW DEVELOPMENT ON SHAPE MEMORY ALLOYS ACTUATORS
Authors:

Roberto Romano and Eduardo Aoun Tannuri
Abstract: The present paper presents the development of a mechanical actuator using a shape memory alloy with a novel cooling system based on the thermo-electric effect (Seebeck-Peltier effect). Such a method has the advantage of reduced weight and requires a simpler control strategy as compared to other forced cooling systems. A complete mathematical model of the actuator was derived, and an experimental prototype was implemented. Several experiments are used to validate the model and to identify all parameters. A robust and nonlinear controller, based on sliding-mode theory, was derived and implemented. Experiments were used to evaluate the actuator closed-loop performance, stability, and robustness properties. The results showed that the proposed cooling system is able to improve the dynamic response of the actuator.
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Paper Nr: 64
Title:

PROGRAMMABLE CYTOGENETIC SUBMICROLITRE LAB-ON-A-CHIP FOR MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC APPLICATIONS
Authors:

Daniela Woide, Veronika Schlentner, Teresa Neumaier, Thorsten Wachtmeister, Herwig G. Paretzke, Zeno von Guttenberg, Achim Wixforth and Stefan Thalhammer
Abstract: This project focuses on the development of an acoustic driven, freely programmable multifunctional biochemical lab-on-a-chip. By combining different platform elements, like microdissection-, nanofluidic- and detection-modules, the lab-on-a-chip can be adapted to question- and patient-specific cytogenetic and forensic applications. In contrast to many common lab-on-a-chip approaches presently available, the fluidic handling is done on a planar surface of the lab-on-a-chip. Minute amounts of biochemical fluids are confined in ‘virtual’ reaction chambers and ‘virtual’ test tubes in the form of free droplets. The droplets, fluidic tracks and reaction sites are defined at the chip surface by a monolayer chemical modification of the chip surface. Surface acoustic waves are employed to agitate and actuate these little ‘virtual’ test tubes along predetermined trajectories. Well-defined investigations, controlled in the submicrolitre regime, can be conducted quickly and gently on the lab-on-a-chip.
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Paper Nr: 66
Title:

A VERSATILE ROBOTIC WHEELCHAIR COMMANDED BY BRAIN SIGNALS OR EYE BLINKS
Authors:

André Ferreira, Daniel Cruz Cavalieri, Rafael Leal Silva, Teodiano Freire Bastos-Filho and Teodiano Bastos-filho
Abstract: A system allowing a person with severe neuromotor disfunction to choose symbols in a Personal Digital Assistent (PDA) using electroencephalography (EEG) or electromyography (EMG) is implemented onboard an electrical wheelchair. Through this system the user is able to elicit personal needs or states, like sleep, thirst or hunger; to write texts using an alpha-numeric keyboard and to command a robotic wheelchair. The EEG patterns used are event-related synchronization and de-synchronization (ERS and ERD, respectively) occurring in the alpha band of the signal spectrum captured in the occipital region of the head, while the EMG patterns are eye-blinks. The results so far obtained with the system developed, in indoor and outdoor environments, are quite satisfactory. This paper describes the system so far implemented and shows some experimental results associated to it.
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Paper Nr: 68
Title:

A 2.4 GHZ WIRELESS ELECTRONIC SHIRT FOR VITAL SIGNALS MONITORING
Authors:

João P. Carmo, P. M. Mendes, C. Couto and J. H. Correia
Abstract: This paper presents a wireless sensor network for wireless electronic shirts. This allows the monitoring of individual biomedical data, such as the cardio-respiratory function. The solution chosen to transmit the body’s measured signals for further processing was the use of a wireless link, working at the 2.4 GHz ISM band. A radio-frequency (RF) CMOS transceiver chip was designed in the UMC RF 0.18 m CMOS process. The power supply of the RF CMOS transceiver is of only 1.5 V, thus it can be supplied by a single coin-sized battery. The receiver has a sensibility of -60 dBm and consumes 6.2 mW. The transmitter delivers an output power of 0 dBm with a power consumption of 15.6 mW. Innovative topics concerning efficient power management was taken into account during the design of the RF CMOS transceiver.
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Paper Nr: 70
Title:

PROBABILISTIC WORKPSACE SCAN MODES OF A ROBOT MANIPULATOR COMMANDED BY EEG SIGNALS
Authors:

Fernando Cheein, Fernando Di Sciascio, Ricardo Carelli and Teodiano Bastos-filho
Abstract: In this paper, probabilistic-based workspace scan modes of a robot manipulator are presented. The scan modes are governed by a Brain Computer Interface (BCI) based on Event Related Potentials (Synchronization and Desynchronization events). The user is capable to select a specific position at the robot’s workspace, which should be reached by the manipulator. The robot workspace is divided into cells. Each cell has a probability value associated to it. Once the robot reaches a cell, its probability value is updated. The mode the scans are made is determined by the probability of all cells at the workspace. The updating process is governed by a recursive Bayes algorithm. A performance comparison between a sequential scan mode and the ones proposed here is presented. Mathematical derivations and experimental results are also shown in this paper.
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Paper Nr: 76
Title:

QUANTUM CASCADE LASERS FOR BIOSENSING APPLICATIONS
Authors:

Pietro Regoliosi, Andrea Vacchi, Giuseppe Scarpa and Paolo Lugli
Abstract: Quantum cascade lasers represent nowadays a mature technology to obtain laser sources in the medium and far infrared region (up to THz). Several advantages with respect to other coherent sources make this kind of lasers particularly attractive: the emission frequency can be selected by properly designing the growth structure, the emission wavelength is tunable with a very good precision and a high optical power in the IR range can be emitted in a spot of small size. These properties make them suitable for several applications, including gas spectroscopy in the IR range. In this work we introduce different types of quantum cascade lasers and we provide a description of their performances and properties, showing that they are suitable candidates for biosensing applications.
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Paper Nr: 89
Title:

APPLICATION OF MODAL ANALYSIS FOR EXTRACTION OF GEOMETRICAL FEATURES OF BIOLOGICAL OBJECTS SET
Authors:

Mchal Rychlik, Witold Stankiewicz and Marek Morzyński
Abstract: This article presents application of modal analysis for the computation of data base of biological objects set and extraction of three dimensional geometrical features. Authors apply two types of modal analysis: physical (vibration modes) and empirical (PCA – Principal Component Analysis) for human bones. In this work as the biological objects the fifteen human femur bones were used. The geometry of each bone was obtained by using of 3D structural light scanner. In this paper the results of vibration modal analysis (modes and frequencies) and PCA (mean shape and features – modes) were presented and discussed. Further the possibilities of application of empirical modes for creation three dimensional anthropometric data base were presented.
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Paper Nr: 92
Title:

OMNIDIRECTIONAL VISION TACKING SYSTEM BASED ON KALMAN FILTERING AND OMNICAMSHIFT
Authors:

Allart Benjamin, Marhic Laurent, Delahoche Laurent, O. Rémy-Néris and Anne-marie Jolly-desodt
Abstract: This paper deals with a robotised assistance dedicated for Handicap person. In this paper, we will propose to discus about one of the main functionality of this project: the tracking of the wheelchair from an autonomous mobile platform on which the Manus (c) arm is mounted. To ensure the tracking, we will present a method based on Kalman filter’s algorithm that we have upgraded in combination with two Kalman filtering levels. The first level permits an estimation of the wheelchair configuration in its environment and the second is used to compute the mobile platform configuration in connection with its environment. The association of the two filtering processes allows a robust tracking between a mobile target (wheelchair) and a mobile observer (assistive platform). More over, the team project was also composed with a clinical group; hence we present some interesting real-life testing of this technical assistance.
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Paper Nr: 95
Title:

A WIRELESS ACQUISITION SYSTEM FOR MONITORING THE INFLUENCE OF LOADS ON VERTEBRAL COLUMN BEHAVIOUR
Authors:

João C. Ribeiro and João Paulo Pereira do Carmo
Abstract: This paper presents a wireless acquisition module (WAM). This allows the monitoring of heavy loads influence on vertebral column’s behaviour. Each module makes the electromyography (EMG), to measure the electric potentials on the iliocostalis and longissimus thoracis muscles, and use a dual-axis accelerometer to get the movements of the body, in order to obtain the complete behaviour of the vertebral column. The solution chosen to transmit the body’s measured signals for further processing, is a wireless link working in the 433 MHz ISM band. The acquired information is transmitted with a maximum rate of 40 kbps, a resolution of 9.8 μV, and accommodates two analog channels. An analog channel with differential input connected to the electrodes, is used to measure the EMG signal, while the remained channel is used in the patient’s movements measurements. The dimensions of the proposed acquisition system are about 7×5×2 cm, and will help to understand the influence of heavy loads as a risk factors in the vertebral column, such as the scoliosis and lordosis.
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Paper Nr: 97
Title:

NEUROLAB: A MULTIMODAL NETWORKED EXOSKELETON FOR NEUROMOTOR AND BIOMECHANICAL RESEARCH
Authors:

Andres Felipe Ruiz, E. Rocon, F. Brunetti, L. Bueno, J. C. Moreno and J. L. Pons
Abstract: NeuroLab refers to an experimental platform designed to enhance studies in human movement and neuromotor control. The platform comprises a robotic exoskeleton and some other stand-alone devices. All of these components have communication capabilities integrated in hardware and can work cooperatively taking advantage of a networked architecture. A set of experiments have been conducted with NeuroLab. The objective of the trials was to use mechanical perturbations to identify the viscous-elastic properties in human elbow joint and to correlate such mechanical impedance with the electromyographic information of muscles associated to the joint, during a postural task and in a rest position. In each condition, a pseudo-random torque perturbation was applied directly to the arm and to the forearm by mean of an upper limb powered exoskeleton. The angular kinematics (velocity and position), kinetics (torque) and the muscular activation patterns (EMG) in the two main muscles (biceps and triceps brachii) intervening in the elbow flexion-extension movement were recorded.
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Paper Nr: 98
Title:

A RECONFIGURABLE SYSTEM FOR MOVEMENT REHABILITATION AND DIAGNOSTICS WITH FES
Authors:

Piotr Kaczmarek, Andrzej Kasiński, Marek Kraft and Przemysław Mazurkiewicz
Abstract: The architecture of a custom originally designed FES system is described. The system is built from off-the-shelf and cusom components to obtain a target functionality. List of potential applications is provided. Some tasks have been already tested in laboratory and clinical conditions. Hardware specification of proprietary components is given and interfacing issues are addressed.
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Paper Nr: 100
Title:

WIDE-BANDWIDTH, HIGH FRAME RATE ELECTRICAL IMPEDANCE TOMOGRAPHY / SPECTROSCOPY - A Code Division Multiplexing (CDM) Approach
Authors:

A. L. McEwan, D. S. Holder, J. Tapson and A. van Schaik
Abstract: We present a proposal and proof-of-concept, experimental results for a new type of electrical impedance tomography / spectroscopy system that makes use of code division multiplexing to achieve two important technological advances. Assigning each channel an orthogonal code allow all the impedance measurements to be made simultaneously in time, thereby increasing the frame rate; and the use of pseudorandom input signals allows a very wide range of frequencies to be sampled simultaneously in each channel.
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Paper Nr: 103
Title:

INSTRUMENTATION AND LABVIEW BASED CONTINUOUS PROCESSING FOR CHEST PHYSIOTHERAPY
Authors:

Luc Marechal, Christine BARTHOD, Gérard Gautier, Jacques Lottin and Jean Claude JEULIN
Abstract: Infant chest physiotherapy (CPT) has never been the purpose of any assessed scientific study although it is widely used for newborn babies suffering from bronchiolitis. It is thus compulsory to quantify the limits of the gesture to obtain the expected effect. In this paper, we present original instrumented gloves designed to perform measurements during the CPT act on babies to characterize the gesture. Associated electronics and software were specially developed with LabVIEW for data acquisition, continuous processing and analysis of the characteristic parameters. The measuring system and its readout electronics were calibrated. A drive to do measurement with babies in real situation validates the principle of the system. The analysis of the results highlights relevant parameters for typical phases of the CPT act.
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Paper Nr: 104
Title:

A NOVEL APPROACH FOR SIMULATING A BIO-CONTAMINATION PROCESS
Authors:

Gerard Chalhoub, Antonio Freitas and Michel Misson
Abstract: The phenomenon of bio-contamination in a population of individuals being contaminated in a near by near physical, viral or bacterial contact could be compared by analogy with a near by near exchange of "atomic" data between mobile entities of an ad hoc network. Would the tools of wireless communication engineering then make it possible to contribute in the modeling of a bio-contamination process? Does the use of CSMA/CA in order to share the “contamination medium” make it possible to simulate this process of contagion? To establish the limits of the analogy, we consider the most unfavorable case, the systematic contamination of proximity. A susceptible mobile becomes contaminated if it passes near a contaminant mobile at a distance lower than the contamination distance. Simulations under NS2 highlight the effect of the overall radiation compared to the power used for emitting the atomic data representing the virus and reveal an optimal frequency of atomic data diffusion in the case of a population with strong geographical density moving in confined environment.
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Paper Nr: 108
Title:

LAB-ON-A-CHIP WITH FLUID ACOUSTIC MICROAGITATION - Piezoelectric Polymer β-PVDF used as Ultrassonic Transducer
Authors:

Vanessa Cardoso, J. G. Rocha, Filomena Soares, Graça Minas and S. Lanceros-Mendez
Abstract: The main objective of this article is to describe the development of a fully-integrated disposable lab-on-a-chip for point of care testing and monitoring of biochemical parameters in biological fluids. The lab-on-a-chip is composed mainly by two dies: the fluid and the detection. The fluid die, fabricated in SU-8, comprises three microfluidic cuvettes, containing the fluids into analysis, and a β-PVDF microagitation system. The detection die is fabricated in a CMOS standard process and contains the photodetectors and the electronics for signal actuation and detection. The main innovation of this lab-on-a-chip is the application of an acoustic microagitation technique by the deposition of the β-PVDF piezoelectric polymer underneath the microfluidic structures, with automatic electronic control. This piezoelectric polymer produces mechanical vibrations, which allow the enhancement of the mixing and the reaction.
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Paper Nr: 120
Title:

YEAST ON A CHIP - Single-cell Analyses of MAPK Signaling Pathways in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae using Cell Chips
Authors:

Min C. Park, Moon Kyu Kwak, Hye Sung Cho, Kahp Y. Suh, Jae Young Hur and Sang-Hyun Park
Abstract: The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways are essential for cell growth, cell differentiation and survival in eukaryotes. The MAPK signaling pathways transmit signals from the cell surface to nucleus. The mating and high osmolarity responses in the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, depend on the MAPK signaling pathways. Here we analyzed the mating and high osmolarity responses in the budding yeast, S. cerevisiae at single-cell level using cell chips. The cell chip analyses of the mating and high osmolarity responses were performed using fluorescent proteins fused to genes whose transcription is specifically upregulated by each signaling. Using the technique, we have determined the real-time gene expression patterns of the mating and high osmolarity responses at single-cell level. In this study, we observed that the mating and high osmolarity MAPK signaling showed a non-uniform, fluctuating flux in the population of yeast cells analyzed.
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Paper Nr: 124
Title:

PERSONAL DIALYSIS USING A WEB-BASED, PORTABLE SYSTEM - C-PAK (Carry-on Pulse Artificial Kidney)
Authors:

Jung C. Lee, Wook E. Kim, Ki M. Lim, Jeong C. Kim and Byoung Goo Min
Abstract: While the number of patients suffering from acute and chronic renal failure has been steadily increasing every year, the mortality rate is not improving. For the purpose of improvement on the quality of life and mortality of renal disease patients, we employ the hemofiltration principle to treat the end-stage renal disease patients. Hemofiltration equipment can be installed without additional plumbing and electrical power construction; operated only with several pre-packaged fluid bags without a huge water treatment facility. This paper describes the development of portable renal treatment equipment based on hemofiltration treatment, Carry-on Pulse Artificial Kidney (C-PAK), and reports the results of animal test using the equipment. The web-based remote monitor/control system for C-PAK is introduced also. We expect that our portable hemofiltration device for chronic renal failure patient would be an alternative for conventional hemodialysis machine and a solution to home renal treatment.
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Paper Nr: 127
Title:

SIMULTANEOUS WIRELESS MEASUREMENT OF BLOOD PRESSURE AND SYMPATHETIC NERVE ACTIVITY - A System for Investigating Neural Control Mechanisms in Long Term Blood Pressure Regulation
Authors:

Daniel McCormick, Robert Kirton, Alan Easteal, Simon Malpas, Carolyn Barrettt, Sarah Jane Guild, Poul Nielsen, Augio Patrick Hu, David Budgett, Matthew Lim and Bruce van Vliet
Abstract: We report on the development of a combined sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure telemeter for long term implantation in freely moving small animals. The devices simultaneously records and transmits blood pressure, temperature and sympathetic nerve data on the 2.4 GHz ISM band with a range of 5 m. Blood pressure is measured with a 400 Hz bandwidth, fluid filled catheter at a resolution of 0.1 mmHg. Sympathetic nerve activity is measured differentially using stainless steel electrodes attached to the renal nerve. The telemeter measures 29x37x12mm (a volume of approximately 9.5 cm3) and weighs 17g, making it suitable for use in rats with a weight greater than 170 g. Battery life is 12 h when used continuously, however the device’s lifespan is effectively indefinite due to the use of in vivo inductively coupled battery charging. Example data recorded in a conscious unconstrained rat is provided which verifies the telemeters operation.
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Paper Nr: 133
Title:

MAGNETIC COUPLING ANALYSIS OF A TET POWER DELIVERY SYSTEM
Authors:

Thushari Dissanayake, David Budgett and Augio Patrick Hu
Abstract: This paper presents a comparative study of methods to determine the coupling coefficient between primary and secondary coils used in a transcutaneous energy transfer system designed for powering implantable biomedical devices. A coupling analysis covering typical misalignments between coils is presented using an analytical model, a simulated model and practical experimental measurements. The simulated model shows good agreement with the experimental measurements. The performance of the system is characterised by carrying out a loss analysis to compute the power efficiency of the system for different misalignment situations. It was established that variable coupling affects the maximum power transfer capacity but has a low impact on the power efficiency for coil separations of less than 30mm.
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Paper Nr: 135
Title:

A NEW METABOLISM MODEL FOR HUMAN SKELETAL MUSCLE
Authors:

Dayu Lv and Bill Goodwine
Abstract: The human body metabolic regulatory system is very complex, containing thousands of metabolites involved in biochemical reactions. Glucose metabolism is one of the key procedures maintaining daily energy balance. Mobility of glucose is implemented by glucose transporters with different transporting characteristics locally, which are distributed in cells of brain, liver, pancreas, kidney and skeletal muscle, etc. This paper presents a component of a new model that is focused on skeletal muscle which consume energy consistently due to either slight movement or high-energy demanded activities, such as running or swimming. This paper presents a mathematical model where glucose, insulin, glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), etc. are introduced and connected by ordinary differential equations.
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Paper Nr: 139
Title:

MECHATRONIC SYSTEM FOR TRANSURETHRAL RESECTION TRAINING
Authors:

Angel Asensio Gimeno, Alejandro Ibarz, José Ignacio Artigas, Álvaro Marco, Roberto Casas and Roberto Casas
Abstract: Training the residents who start with endoscopic operations remains a challenge. This paper describes an electromechanical system developed for learning the transurethral resection (TUR) technique. This system can be easily set and cleared up in a classroom, and consists of a supervisor’s workbench with a wireless sensing device, connected to several trainees’ workbenches with motorised devices. These devices have a resectoscope mounted on an electromechanical structure that is able to reproduce all the movements of an actual endoscopic operation of the prostate.
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Paper Nr: 140
Title:

MICRO-SHAFT-POKING - A Novel Instrument for Mechanically Characterizing Soft Biomimetic Membrance
Authors:

Kuo-Kang Liu, Mark Ahearne, Eleftherios Siamantouras and Ying Yang
Abstract: Characterizing viscoelastic properties of soft biomimetic membranes has become increasingly important due to their biomedical applications such as tissue engineering/regenerative medicine and biosensors. This paper presents a new micro-shaft-poking (MSP) technique which is free from the complication of substrate backing, normally occurred as an intractable problem in the conventional indentation testing for soft membranes. A tailored indention apparatus with a spherical indenter was constructed to achieve the force resolution and displacement of 1μN and 1μm. The biomimetic membranes which were used for mechanical testing were made of two types of hydrogel, alginate and agarose. The results showed that the elastic modulus increased with gel concentration. A creep test has also been conducted to examine the time-dependent behaviors of various hydrogel and a viscoelastic model has been correspondingly developed and applied to describe the experimental results. Other potential applications of this new instrument to other membranes, both artificial and biological, have been addressed in the paper.
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Paper Nr: 144
Title:

BIOINTERFACES BASED ON IMMOBILIZED BORONIC ACID WITH SPECIFITY TO GLYCATED PROTEINS
Authors:

Jan Pribyl and Petr Skladal
Abstract: Development of bioanalytical assays for determination of glycated hemoglobin content in blood samples is reported. First, a combined biosensor setup for determination of total and glycated hemoglobin content was successfully developed and tested. The effect of various operating parameters, such as ionic strength, flow rate and instrumental set-up was optimized. The total hemoglobin content was analyzed by measuring of absorbance of the hemoglobin-cyanide derivative at 540 nm. Only one standard (calibrator), diluted in various proportions, was necessary for the method calibration. The full range of HbA1c content (4 to 15 %) presented in blood can be analyzed. Only 1 μl of blood was required for analysis. The developed method was successfully evaluated for analysis of blood samples collected from diabetic patients. Next, the heterogeneous affinity assay performed in a microtitre plate with an immobilized boronic acid is described. This assay is based on ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) principle; however stable chemiselective ligand is used in this case. The content of glycated hemoglobin is determined according to its peroxidase activity after attachment to immobilized boronic acid derivative; the total hemoglobin concentration is measured as an absorbance at 405 nm.
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Paper Nr: 148
Title:

INSTRUMENTED SPLINT FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF BRUXISM
Authors:

Pilar Lafont Morgado, Andres Diaz Lantada, Alexander Martínez Álvarez, Antonio Barrientos Cruz, Héctor Lorenzo-Yustos, Pedro Luis Castedo Cepeda, Roberto González Herranz, Julio Muñoz García and Javier Echavarri Otero
Abstract: Bruxism is a health problem consisting in grinding or tightly clenching the upper and lower teeth. Both the grinding and sliding lead to wear of the teeth and produce a noise during the night that is sufficiently loud to disturb the sleep of anyone sharing the bedroom. The tension produced causes problems in the muscles, tissues and other structures surrounding the jaw, ear pain, headaches, lesions to the teeth and disorders in the jaw joints. For an early, rapid, effective and economical diagnosis of bruxism, we propose the use of instrumented splints to detect and record the intensity and duration of interdental pressure episodes. This paper sets out the design, manufacture and testing of an instrumented splint for diagnosing the signs of bruxism. The system stands out for its use of piezoelectric polymeric sensors which, because of their reduced thickness, do not cause any alteration to the patient’s bite. It lets a quantitative assessment of intraoral pressure be made and bruxism behaviour be diagnosed at an early stage, so as to being able to programme corrective actions before irreversible dental wear appears. The first “in vitro” simulations and “in vivo” trials performed served to demonstrate the feasibility of the system in accordance with the initial objectives.
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Paper Nr: 154
Title:

SYNCHRONIZATION ISSUES IN SURGICAL TRAINING
Authors:

Álvaro Marco, Hector Gracia Montero, Angel Asensio Gimeno, Carlos Guallart, José Ignacio Artigas and Roberto Casas
Abstract: Surgical training systems allow novel surgeons to acquire the required skills to successfully carry out an operation without harming a real patient. These systems emulate the situation of a real operation, replicating the information gathered by sensors, movements of the surgeon, patient response, etc. All this information must be synchronized to provide an experience to the novel surgeon as closest to reality as possible. A special case of information synchronization is when using video images from the operation. In this paper, we analyze these synchronization issues —video, movements, sensors, etc. — and show a particular case that bring all together: an endoscopic video-surgery learning system.
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Paper Nr: 157
Title:

POLYMER MEMS SYSTEM FOR MEASURING THE MECHANICAL MODULUS OF A BIOLOGICAL CELL
Authors:

Wenyue Zhang, Markus Gnerlich, Yaohua Sun, Gaoshan Jing, Jonathan J. Paly, Arkady Voloshin and Svetlana Tatic-Lucic
Abstract: The measurements of the mechanical modulus of biological cells are critical to studies of pathophysiology and the research for an effective treatment. This research has developed a rapid and cost effective technique in order to measure the Poisson’s ratio and mechanical modulus of a live biological cell by utilizing microelectromechanical system (MEMS) techniques in a biological application. The design, fabrication, and characterization of a polymer-based MEMS system that integrates a V-shaped electrothermal actuator array and a cell-positioning system in a single microelectronics chip are presented here. This BioMEMS device compressed a NIH3T3 fibroblasts cell and caused up to 25% mechanical strain.
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Paper Nr: 161
Title:

METROLOGICAL CHARACTETIZATION OF A CYCLE-ERGOMETER
Authors:

Marco Bocciolone, Lorenzo Comolli and Franco Molteni
Abstract: A cycle-ergometer has been instrumented with suitable strain gauges to obtain metrological qualified measurements of the left and right leg torque. A wireless device has been used to transmit in real-time the gathered signals to the acquisition PC. Advantages are to give to doctors and physiotherapists a diagnostic tool, to analyze the cycling pattern of the patients and to monitor the improvements during rehabilitation. The real-time measures are also suitable input data for the Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). All the analysis was conducted with a particular attention to spinal cord injured patients, who are characterized by highly asymmetric cycling: yet, this measurement setup, by independent measurement of right and left torques, can be used successfully also in this particular situation. An explanation of the measuring principles and a set of first results are given, that show the potentiality of the setup.
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Paper Nr: 194
Title:

PATIENT SIMULATOR APPLIED TO AUDITORY EVOKED POTENTIALS, ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHY AND ELECTRONYSTAGMOGRAPHY
Authors:

MAURICIO TAVARES, Carlos Richter, RAIMES MORAES and Tiago Oliveira
Abstract: This paper describes an electronic device, named SimPac I, developed to simulate auditory evoked potentials of short, middle and long latencies, ECG and electronystagmography signals. It uses sampled waveforms in order to better reproduce real physiologic AEPs. The simulator is based on the ADuC841 microconverter, a device with an 8052-like core, FLASH memory and two 12-bit DACs. SimPac I is portable and easy to operate, and it is very useful for calibration of AEP, ECG, ENG and VENG systems during manufacture and maintenance. The simulator can also be used to support development and testing of DSP algorithms intended to filter and/or average the above mentioned signals. As a result, examples of several waveforms generated by SimPac I are shown.
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Paper Nr: 195
Title:

A MINIMALLY INVASIVE MICROWAVE HYPERTHERMIC APPLICATOR WITH AN INTEGRATED TEMPERATURE SENSOR
Authors:

Guido B. Gentili and Mariano Linari
Abstract: In the field of microwave hyperthermia and thermo-ablation, the use of minimally invasive applicators is recognized as a very promising means for the treatment of small, early stage, cancer lesions because a very thin applicator can be easily introduced inside the body and precisely directed towards a deep seated tumour using the most advanced 3D imaging techniques and surgical stereo-navigation. Minimally invasive applicators have been successfully employed for the treatment of bladder carcinoma and brain tumours but the accurate temperature monitoring of the heated tissue volume still remains an open problem. In this paper we propose a new minimally invasive applicator, integrating a low-cost metallic wired temperature sensor. The miniaturised endocavitary applicator consists of a asymmetric isolated dipole operating at 2.45 GHz. The very slim shape of the applicator allows to easily insert it into the lesion through a soft plastic tube (catheter) while a temperature sensor, properly embedded in the applicator body, measures the tissue temperature at the interface with the catheter surface. An electromagnetic analysis based on the Finite Integration Technique (FIT) and experimental verifications over a tissue sample proved that a coaxial choke, enclosing the temperature sensor wires, allows localize the heating pattern in a restrict volume while drastically reducing measuring artefacts due to the perturbing effects induced by the probe leads.
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Paper Nr: 197
Title:

RAPID FINITE STATE MACHINE CONTROL OF INDIVIDUAL DNA MOLECULES IN A NANOPORE
Authors:

Noah A. Wilson, Robin Abu-Shumays, Elizabeth Koch, Seico Benner and William B. Dunbar
Abstract: This paper demonstrates feedback voltage control of individual DNA hairpin molecules captured in a nanopore. A finite state machine is used to program voltage control logic, executed on a field-programmable gate array, for rapid detection and regulation of hundreds of DNA hairpins, one at a time. Prompt voltage reduction is used for extension of the dwell time of DNA hairpins in the nanopore. Then, voltage reversal after a preset dwell time is used for automated expulsion of molecules prior to hairpin unzipping. The demonstrated control authority of single molecular complexes captured in the nanopore device is an integral part of our ongoing research for direct monitoring and control of enzyme-bound biopolymers.
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Paper Nr: 202
Title:

MICROCOMPUTERIZED SYSTEM TO ASSESS THE PERFORMANCE OF INFANT INCUBATORS
Authors:

Mario Oliveira, MAURICIO TAVARES and RAIMES MORAES
Abstract: This work presents a system based on a microcomputer to assess the performance of infant incubators in a semi-automatic manner. It carries out the tests described by the section 8 of the NBR IEC 601- 2-19 (1999). The developed electronic circuit acquires data from the sensors using a microcontroller. A set of sensors are used: five for temperature, one for humidity and one for air flow. The sampled data is sent to the PC via Bluetooth. The software running on the PC manages the data sampling, as well as guides the user through the test procedure by means of messages and sound alerts at the end of each stage. The sampled data is shown on the screen and also stored in a database that can be remotely accessed. The results are presented on a graph where the measurements (temperature, humidity and air flow) performed during the whole test can be seen. The procedure to calibrate the sensors and an infant incubator assessment carried out with the developed system is presented.
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Paper Nr: 203
Title:

AUGMENTED COMANIPULATION IN ROBOTIC SURGERY
Authors:

Barthélemy Cagneau, D. Bellot, G. Morel, Zemiti Nabil and G. D’Agostino
Abstract: This paper presents a control scheme for augmented comanipulation with force feedback in robotic surgery. This approach aims at increasing the surgeon’s dexterity. The surgeon manipulates a handle mounted on the robot which manipulates the instrument. The control law ensures that the instrument applies on the organ the same forces that the surgeon applies on the handle but decreased by a scale factor. As a consequence, the robotic device provides the surgeon with an augmented sensation of the interaction forces between the instrument and the organ. The proposed control law does not require any knowledge of the environment. This control scheme is proven stable thanks to a passivity study. Indeed, passivity analysis is a useful tool for the stability analysis of a robot interacting with an unknown environment. Experimental results are presented on a robot dedicated to minimally invasive surgery.
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Paper Nr: 205
Title:

MPSOC ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND SYNTHESIS FOR REAL-TIME BIOMEDICAL SIGNAL PROCESSING IN GAMMA CAMERAS
Authors:

Kai SUN, Hongxing Wei, Tianmiao Wang, Meng Wang, Zili Shao and Hui Liu
Abstract: In this paper, we propose an MPSoC architecture for implementing real-time signal processing in gamma camera. Based on a fully analysis of the characteristics of the application, we design several algorithms to optimize the systems in terms of processing speed, power consumption, and area costs etc. Two types of DSP core have been designed for the integral algorithm and the coordinate algorithm, the key parts of signal processing in a gamma camera. We implement our MPSoC architecture on FPGA, and synthesize DSP cores and Network-on-Chip using Synopsys Design Compiler with a UMC 0.18um standard cell library. The results show that our technique can effectively accelerate the processing and satisfy the requirements of real-time signal processing for 256 × 256 image construction.
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Paper Nr: 213
Title:

MECHANOMYOGRAPHIC SENSOR - A Triaxial Accelerometry Approach
Authors:

Guilherme Nogueira-Neto, Ronie Müller, Fábio Salles, Percy Nohama and Vera Lúcia Button
Abstract: Recently, accelerometers have been used to acquire mechanomyography signals. These signals are due to muscle lateral oscillations during contraction. In this study, a sensor acquired such vibrations in three directions. A triaxial accelerometer-based sensor was constructed and tested with a controlled mechanical vibrator and subwoofer speaker (both from 10Hz up to 40Hz) during isokinetic muscle contraction (3 volunteers, 50 extensions at 300 degrees/s). With triaxial accelerometry it was possible to compute the MMG modulus signal. For normalised and average values, MMG amplitude presented strong correlation coefficients (R=0,89) with RMS and peak torque. Below 80% of normalised data, MMG amplitude and torque values (RMS and peak) seem to converge.
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Paper Nr: 214
Title:

SMART DIELECTRIC ELASTOMERS AND THEIR POTENTIAL FOR BIODEVICES
Authors:

Todd Gisby, Iain Anderson, Emilio P. Calius and Shane Xie
Abstract: Dielectric Elastomer (DE) actuators are compliant, ultra light-weight electromechanical devices that can be used as actuators, sensors, and power generators. While a relatively new technology, DE actuators can be produced using biocompatible materials and have already exhibited excellent performance in terms of strain, speed, pressure, specific energy density, and efficiency when compared to conventional actuation technologies and natural muscle. Further research is required in order for promising laboratory results to be translated into real-world applications, particularly in the areas of modelling and control, but the potential for multiple functions to be integrated into a single element is an exciting prospect for flexible smart structures and biodevices.
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Paper Nr: 215
Title:

PUNCTURE DEPTH AND THE MECHANICAL STABILITY OF MICRONEEDLES
Authors:

David LAM, Y. H. Lee, K. T. Shek and G. Pang
Abstract: Microneedles penetrating less than 1mm beneath the skin can deliver the drugs directly without piercing blood vessels or damaging nerves. The mechanical stability and the puncture behaviour were investigated experimentally by inserting steel needles into silicone rubber and pig skin. Puncture tests revealed that the length of needle buried in the flesh is less than 50% of the nominal insertion depth when the insertion depth is less 1mm. The mechanical stability of the buried needle-flesh assembly, characterized by the force needed to retract the needle, decreased with buried depth and needle diameter. Analysis of the load data suggested that a 100-micron diameter microneedle buried 100 microns deep in pig skin would have a retraction force of 0.1mN, which is only 1% of the retraction force of a conventional needle inserted 5mm into the skin. This suggests that the usage of microneedles in arrays is necessary to increase stability and to enable stable drug delivery.
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Paper Nr: 215
Title:

PUNCTURE DEPTH AND THE MECHANICAL STABILITY OF MICRONEEDLES
Authors:

David LAM, Y. H. Lee, K. T. Shek and G. Pang
Abstract: Microneedles penetrating less than 1mm beneath the skin can deliver the drugs directly without piercing blood vessels or damaging nerves. The mechanical stability and the puncture behaviour were investigated experimentally by inserting steel needles into silicone rubber and pig skin. Puncture tests revealed that the length of needle buried in the flesh is less than 50% of the nominal insertion depth when the insertion depth is less 1mm. The mechanical stability of the buried needle-flesh assembly, characterized by the force needed to retract the needle, decreased with buried depth and needle diameter. Analysis of the load data suggested that a 100-micron diameter microneedle buried 100 microns deep in pig skin would have a retraction force of 0.1mN, which is only 1% of the retraction force of a conventional needle inserted 5mm into the skin. This suggests that the usage of microneedles in arrays is necessary to increase stability and to enable stable drug delivery.
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Paper Nr: 216
Title:

JUST PUSH PRINT - Biodevice Printing Using Bioinks, Electroinks and Quantum Dot Inks
Authors:

Jan Sumerel and Kai Sudau
Abstract: Many advanced medical and environmental test devices require microscale patterning of cells, proteins, or other biological materials, and the need for these devices to contain active functional material components has increased dramatically. In addition, the biological material oftentimes requires an interface with an electrical or optical output signal. Efficient production methods are paramount to meeting market demands, and ink jet printing offers an easy, low cost alternative to materials deposition used in current biodevice manufacturing. However, fluid development and proper printing parameters at the research level are required for manufacturing processing and will be critical to process adoption. In this paper, operating parameters and fluid characterization have been developed through processing biomaterials, organic and inorganic conductive fluids and semiconductor nanoparticles.Because of the inherent versatility, uniformity and scalability of this system, established operating parameters coupled with proper fluid characterization will ultimately be translatable to production line systems of biodevice components.
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Paper Nr: 217
Title:

MEASUREMENT OF CELL FORCES USING A POLYMER MEMS SENSOR
Authors:

Nicholas Ferrell, James Woodard and Derek Hansford
Abstract: Cellular mechanics are responsible for execution and regulation of a number of cell functions. Mechanical forces generated within the cytoskeleton are transmitted via transmembrane linkages to the underlying substrate. Measurement of these forces could lead to a wealth of additional information about the role of cell mechanics in regulating cell function and signal transduction. Here we describe the design, fabrication, and testing of a polystyrene cantilever beam array for measuring forces generated by WS1 human skin fibroblasts. Finite element analysis was used to guide the design of a compound cantilever beam. Sensors were fabricated from polystyrene to provide a well-studied and biocompatible surface for cell attachment. Soft lithography based techniques were used for microfabrication of the sensors. Cells were placed on four and eight probe cantilever sensors and deflection of the probes was measured optically during attachment and spreading of the cells. The device was successfully used to measure time varying mechanical forces generated by fibroblast cells.
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Paper Nr: 219
Title:

DESIGN OF A PC-BASED PATIENT SIMULATOR FOR TESTING AND CALIBRATION OF ELECTROMEDICAL DEVICES USING LABVIEW
Authors:

Gerardo Acosta, Pedro P. Escobar, Gerardo Acosta and Marcos Formica
Abstract: Modern digital biomedical devices need a testing and calibrating equipment to asses its functional state with the appropiate technology, so patient simulators have become an essential tool for maintenance and biomedical engineers. An interactive virtual instrument was developed in Labview for simulation of healthy and pathological conditions to test biomedical devices which acquire, register and store temporal evolution of human physiological variables. In this article we present some details of the design and implementation of a simple pc-based patient simulator using Labview, in order to obtain a low cost solution for teaching and practical purposes.
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Paper Nr: 219
Title:

DESIGN OF A PC-BASED PATIENT SIMULATOR FOR TESTING AND CALIBRATION OF ELECTROMEDICAL DEVICES USING LABVIEW
Authors:

Gerardo Acosta, Pedro P. Escobar, Gerardo Acosta and Marcos Formica
Abstract: Modern digital biomedical devices need a testing and calibrating equipment to asses its functional state with the appropiate technology, so patient simulators have become an essential tool for maintenance and biomedical engineers. An interactive virtual instrument was developed in Labview for simulation of healthy and pathological conditions to test biomedical devices which acquire, register and store temporal evolution of human physiological variables. In this article we present some details of the design and implementation of a simple pc-based patient simulator using Labview, in order to obtain a low cost solution for teaching and practical purposes.
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Paper Nr: 221
Title:

MICROWAVE DIELECTRIC SPECTROSCOPY OF LOW-VOLUME FRACTION HUMAN CANCER CELLS EMBEDDED IN COLLAGEN GELS - Experimental Feasibility Study with an Open-ended Coaxial Probe
Authors:

Stéphane Egot-Lemaire, Pierre-Olivier Bagnaninchi, Jacek Pijanka, Josep Sulé-Suso and Serguei Semenov
Abstract: This paper addresses and demonstrates the feasibility for microwave dielectric spectroscopy to detect small volume fractions of SK-MES lung cancer cells embedded in collagen gels with an open-ended coaxial probe. Measurements were performed on the frequency range 200 MHz – 2 GHz. For all the cell volume fractions tested (1.4%-4.4%), a significant difference in complex permittivity was observed between composite gels (containing cells) compared to gels alone. Statistically significant changes were especially found in the real part of the permittivity, which decreased consistently when the volume fraction increased.
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Paper Nr: 222
Title:

ELECTRONIC DEVICES FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF HEARING
Authors:

Albrecht Eiber
Abstract: The effect of specific hearing impairments can be alleviated or compensated using electrically driven hearing aids. There is a broad variety of devices for stimulating the hearing either acoustically, mechanically or electrically. Their applications depend on the type, the severity and the location of a particular impairment. In order to get an optimal reconstruction, additionally to the medical aspects the dynamical behavior of the implant has to be regarded together with the individual situation of the patient simultaneously. Because of the broad variation of individuals and situations, the belonging parameters are time dependent and vary in a wide range, too. Thus, the design of a hearing device must be robust or insensitive against parameter variation and a sensitivity analysis with respect to parameters of the device, variation of anatomy and variation of insertion is needed. By means of mechanical simulation models enhanced by the behavior of the actuator and its control, the dynamical behavior of implants can be calculated and optimized. Such simulations helps to shorten series of experiments in the lab and in clinical practice and guidelines for the designer and for the surgeon can be derived.
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Paper Nr: 231
Title:

NOVEL FIELD-EFFECT CONTROLLED SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBE NETWORK DEVICES FOR BIOMEDICAL SENSOR APPLICATIONS
Authors:

Udo Schwalke
Abstract: In this position paper we propose a novel method for the realization of carbon nanotube field-effect sensors (CNTFESs) which will most likely have a strong impact on the next-generation of sensors. CNTFESs are ideally suitable for biomedical sensor applications due to their excellent inherent properties such as ultra small size, high specific surface area and extremely high sensitivity. CNTFESs are based on carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs) which are optimized for sensor applications. We have succeeded to develop a simple, reproducible fabrication process to grow individual CNTs and CNT-networks directly within the specified device area. No tedious manual manipulation and alignment of the CNTs is necessary. Electrical results of the fabricated fully functional CNTFETs are presented and the use of these devices as single-walled CNT-based field-effect controlled sensors for virus detection is discussed.
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Paper Nr: 233
Title:

METHOD FOR MEASURING PARYLENE THICKNESS USING QUARTZ CRYSTAL MICROBALANCE
Authors:

Henna Heinilä, Maunu Mäntylä and Pekka Heino
Abstract: At present, the exact final thickness of parylene coating is difficult to specify in the beginning of the coating process since the parylene thickness is a function of many components. The elements that control the thickness are substrate surface area in a vacuum chamber, program parameters, and amount of dimer charge. This paper describes a method for measuring parylene coating thickness using quartz crystal microbalance. The thickness is measured by an oscillation frequency change of quartz crystal as parylene deposites on the quartz crystal plate. These results can be used for specifying the parylene thickness real-time during the coating process.
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Paper Nr: 238
Title:

CONSIDERATIONS ON IMPROVING THE DESIGN OF CUFF ELECTRODE FOR ENG RECORDING - Geometrical Approach, Dedicated IC, Sensitivity and Noise Rejection
Authors:

Fabien Soulier, Lionel Gouyet, Guy Cathébras, Serge Bernard, David Guiraud and Yves Bertrand
Abstract: Cuff electrodes have several advantages for in situ recording of ENG signal. They are easy to implant and not very invasive for the patient. Nevertheless, they are subject to parasitic background noise, especially the EMG generated by the muscles. We show that the use of large numbers of poles can increase the sensitivity of cuff electrodes as well as their selectivity with respect to a efficient noise rejection. We investigate several configurations and compare the performances of a tripolar cuff electrode versus a multipolar one in numerical simulation. One the other hand the use of cuff electrodes leads to the recording of the sum of the signals generated by all the axons within the nerve. This puts in evidence the need of signal separation techniques that require a large amount of information. Again, we show that multipolar electrodes can solve this problem since poles can be switched one to another, provided that they are distributed along a regular tessellation. Finally, we present the structure of an A S I C preamplifier aimed to obtain the Laplacian of the potential by spatial filtering and rejecting low-frequency noise.
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Paper Nr: 239
Title:

AUTOMATIC FALL DETECTION AND ALERT SYSTEM - A Compact GPS/GSM Enabled Unit based on Accelerometry
Authors:

Hugo Silva, Filipe Silva, Hugo Gamboa and Vítor Viegas
Abstract: Accidental falls are among one of the main causes of death and disability on elderly people. This stands both as a healthcare problem, in the sense that, upon falling, if individuals are not assisted in an early stage severe long term consequences may arise; and as a limitation for the individual’s daily life, in the sense that they generally deprive themselves of regular routines as a preventive measure to avoid falling. In this paper we describe a hardware unit conceived to automatically detect fall events, and trigger a set of alert actions which allow the remote detection of the occurrence and facilitate rapid assistance.
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Paper Nr: 29
Title:

BIOMETRIC AUTHENTICATION DEVICES AND SEMANTIC WEB SERVICES - An Approach for Multi Modal Fusion Framework
Authors:

Luis Puente, María Jesús Poza, Juan Miguel Gómez and Belen Ruiz-Mezcua
Abstract: Identity verification is now a days a crucial task for security applications. In the near future organizations dedicated to store individual biometric information will emerge in order to determine individual identity. Biometric authentication is currently information intensive. The volume and diversity of new data sources challenge current database technologies. Biometric identity heterogeneity arises when different data sources interoperate. New promising application fields such as the Semantic Web and Semantic Web Services can leverage the potential of biometric identity, even though heterogeneity continues rising. Semantic Web Services provide a platform to integrate the lattice of biometric identity data widely distributed both across the Internet and within individual organizations. In this paper, we present a framework for solving biometric identity heterogeneity based on Semantic Web Services. We use a multimodal fusion recognition scenario as a test-bed for evaluation.
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Paper Nr: 31
Title:

A SIMPLE DEVICE TO MEASURE GAZE ANGLES IN VISUAL TASK ANALYSES
Authors:

Álvaro Page, Begoña Mateo, David Garrido, Juan Carlos Dürsteler, Raquel Marzo, Antonia Giménez and Carmen Prieto
Abstract: This paper presents a simple device to measure visual maps and head motion to analyze the visual strategy in optometric applications. Instead of using the common approach of conventional eye trackers based on continuous pupil–corneal reflection detection, a simple method based on photogrammetry is proposed. This method only measures the head movements, the gaze direction and the visual map can be calculated on the hypothesis that subjects’ gaze follows a known visual stimulus accurately. In order to validate this hypothesis, an experiment has been carried out to calculate the subject’s accuracy when tracking the stimulus. The gaze direction was measured both with conventional eye tracking and with the proposed technique and the measured gaze angles were compared. The results show that the subjects effectively follow the stimulus during the task and thus the main hypothesis of the proposed system is confirmed. Therefore, the analysis of head movement can supply an indirect estimation of the visual angles that is as accurate as the measures obtained with more complex devices.
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Paper Nr: 31
Title:

A SIMPLE DEVICE TO MEASURE GAZE ANGLES IN VISUAL TASK ANALYSES
Authors:

Álvaro Page, Begoña Mateo, David Garrido, Juan Carlos Dürsteler, Raquel Marzo, Antonia Giménez and Carmen Prieto
Abstract: This paper presents a simple device to measure visual maps and head motion to analyze the visual strategy in optometric applications. Instead of using the common approach of conventional eye trackers based on continuous pupil–corneal reflection detection, a simple method based on photogrammetry is proposed. This method only measures the head movements, the gaze direction and the visual map can be calculated on the hypothesis that subjects’ gaze follows a known visual stimulus accurately. In order to validate this hypothesis, an experiment has been carried out to calculate the subject’s accuracy when tracking the stimulus. The gaze direction was measured both with conventional eye tracking and with the proposed technique and the measured gaze angles were compared. The results show that the subjects effectively follow the stimulus during the task and thus the main hypothesis of the proposed system is confirmed. Therefore, the analysis of head movement can supply an indirect estimation of the visual angles that is as accurate as the measures obtained with more complex devices.
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Paper Nr: 34
Title:

DEVELOPMENT OF A MULTI-CAMERA CORNEAL TOPOGRAPHER - Using an Embedded Computing Approach
Authors:

Alexandros Soumelidis, Z. Fazekas, Ferenc Schipp, A. Edelmayer, J. Németh and B. Csákány
Abstract: A multi-camera corneal topographer is presented in the paper. Using this topographer, the corneal surface under examination is reconstructed from corneal images taken synchronously by a number of calibrated cameras. The surface reconstruction is achieved by the joint solution of several partial differential equations (PDE’s), one PDE for each camera. These PDE’s describe the phenomenon of light-reflection for different overlapping regions of the corneal surface. Both algorithmic and implementation issues are covered in the paper.
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Paper Nr: 58
Title:

STUDY OF OXYGEN PLASMA FOR APPLICATION IN STERILIZATION PROCESSES
Authors:

Adir J. Moreira, Terezinha de Jesus Andreoli Pinto, Ronaldo Domingues Mansano, Nelson Ordonez and L. Vilhegas
Abstract: The main objective of this work was to propose a technique of sterilization for medical devices with less exposition time than current plasma techniques, and also determine if this technique can be applied to temperature sensitive materials. Therefore, it was used as biological sensor Bacillus subtilis spores var. niger ATCC 9372 and Bacillus stearothermophilus. For Bacillus subtilis indicators were used two substrates: glass with 2,0 x 107 CFU/substrate of microbial load initial, and paper strips with 3,8 x 106 CFU/ substrate of microbial load initial. The efficacy of process was evaluated with the count of survivors and it respective value of decimal reduction (D value). In this work it was used RIE (Reactive Ion Etching). For all processes were used Petri dishes with the sample in triplicates for both microorganisms types. The process parameters was varied as follow: gas flow - 100, 200 and 500 sccm, pressure – 100 and 330 mTorr, RF power – 50, 100 and 150 Watts and the time were of 2 minutes up to 60 minutes. After these processes, we made the count of survivors, in order to evaluate the plasma efficiency as sterilizer agent. Espectrophotometric analysis was made to evaluate the oxygen consumption during all process, and was used a scanning electronic microscope to visualize the plasma effect over microorganisms. With these results it was possible to adapt the process parameters for each type of substrate.
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Paper Nr: 65
Title:

THE DESIGN OF BIAXIAL JOINT FOR MOBILE ELECTRONICS WITH THE ANALYSIS ON ARTHROSIS
Authors:

Zhao Danpu, Yi Qiang, Nie Chenghui, Chen Ken, Liu Li, Xu Leon and Salo Antti
Abstract: To bring forward the new form factors is one of the key drivers for future mobile electronic devices. On the other hand, some form factors in nature with evolution process have been the excellent and adaptive. In this paper, we pay attention to the characteristics of arthrosis, researched on the difference between the arthrosis and machine joint. Then the essentials and parameters of the biaxial joint design were introduced. After that a biaxial joint concept for portable electronics based on the bionic principle was proposed. Finally, we provided the statics analysis of the biaxial joint.
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Paper Nr: 79
Title:

A SIMULATION STUDY OF THE NEW CONCEPT OF A STAIR-CLIMBING WHEELCHAIR - Concept of Construction
Authors:

Grzegorz Dobrzynski, Wlodzimierz Choromanski and Jerzy Kowara
Abstract: The authors present an idea of construction, modelling and simulation studies of a new generation, mechatronical wheelchair. The wheelchair is meant to drive on various surfaces. Its important feature is the possibility to overcome obstacles, such as a doorstep of max. 220 mm. The construction model and simulation studies were carried out in the environment of MBS ADAMS package. An algorithm of controlling the process of overcoming the doorstep was proposed and an analysis of parametrical sensitivity of the construction was performed.
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Paper Nr: 84
Title:

ELBOW FLEXION AND EXTENSION MOVEMENTS CHARACTERIZATION BY MEANS OF EMG
Authors:

Laura Bittar and Maria Claudia F. Castro
Abstract: Electromyographic (EMG) signal is the electrical manifestation of neuromuscular activation associated with muscle contraction. The present work intends to characterize the behavior of the muscles biceps and triceps during elbow flexion and extension movements, without load. These movements were performed at horizontal and vertical planes. Three types of test were performed, for each plane, relating EMG signal with joint position. Five men volunteers, ages ranged between 18 and 21 years old, were selected to participate to the tests. The first test consisted to move 10 degrees for each three seconds until the allowed maximum flexion and then, to return at the same way to the initial position. For the second test, the same movement was made but continuously, without stopping at intermediate positions. And for the third test, continuously flexion and extension movements were repeated sequentially but for different amplitudes, increasing by 10 degrees each. The tests were repeated, three times each. Initially, graphical analysis of the data was made for standard behavior detection and, for a quantitative analysis, after EMG preprocessing, averages and variation coefficients were calculated from specific intervals at the beginning, middle and at the end of movement. Although an EMG signals inherent variability, results showed inter and intra subject's repeatability, but only for movements performed at the horizontal plane.
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Paper Nr: 91
Title:

AN RFID TRANSPONDER LOCATION SYSTEM
Authors:

Mou Tang, Graeme Chester and Jeffrey Neasham
Abstract: This paper describes a location system based on RFID technology. This system can be used to map the image of an endoscope. Compared with other endoscope location systems, this is a wireless system. The transponder mounted along the shaft of an endoscope does not increase the size of the endoscope or affect the flexibility of endoscope. We build the mathematical model of this location system and verify this model by experiments. Although experiments are for a transponder moving along one dimension, we can develop a three-dimensional system based on our results.
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Paper Nr: 94
Title:

DESIGN OF ANALOG SIGNAL PROCESSING INTEGRATED CIRCUIT FOR MULTI-CHANNEL BIOMEDICAL STRAIN MEASUREMENT INSTRUMENT
Authors:

Wenchao Qu, Syed Islam, Gary To and Mohamed R. Mahfouz
Abstract: An analog signal processing integrated circuit for micro-cantilever array is designed for strain measurement in biomedical applications. The chip includes an analog multiplexer, an instrumentation amplifier, a sample and hold circuit, an on-chip voltage and current reference, a successive approximation register analog-to-digital converter and a digital control unit. The 8-bit ADC attains 45.4 dB signal-to-noise-and-distortion ratio and 56.4 dB spurious-free-dynamic-range while operating at 772 KHz. The chip occupies an area of 1.54 mm2 and consumes 17.8 mW power with a single 3.3 V supply. The chip has been fabricated in a 0.35μm 2-poly 4-metal CMOS process technology.
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Paper Nr: 101
Title:

DEVELOPMENT OF AN ALTERNATIVE SYSTEM FOR SUSPENDED GAIT ANALYSIS
Authors:

Gustavo Lima and Alberto Cliquet Jr
Abstract: Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) may impair an individual’s gait. For these cases, a rehabilitation technique that has become more popular is Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). Gait analysis is an important technique to evaluate rehabilitation of patients undergoing FES-assisted therapy. This work proposes a system that monitors gait variables – knee joint angles, and ground reaction forces (heel and metatarsal) – and uses them as inputs for gait analysis of paraplegic patients. The methods for building the data acquisition hardware (transducers and interface) and software are described, along with the transducer calibration methods. The results show the final prototype for the gait analysis system, which allows comparison between different individuals’ gaits, as well as different rehabilitation stages for the same individual. The software has a recording feature, as well as digital control outputs, which may be used in the future for training an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and controlling the individual’s FES stimulator. In the near future, the system may be of great applicability for suspended FES-assisted gait analysis and control.
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Paper Nr: 107
Title:

RESURE - Wireless Sensor Network for Health–Care Monitoring
Authors:

Enrique V. Cabral, Vicente Gonzalez and Jean André Guevara Rosas
Abstract: This work presents a sensor system to monitoring a patient vital signs remotely. The proposed sensor network architecture is based on IEEE 802.15.4 PAN technology with start topology. An experimental set-up was implemented including the development of some biological sensors. In the implementation stage we use Xbee modules, the remote sensors was configured as RFD devices and the network coordinator as FFD device. As central device a smart phone was used. From the results, we conclude that the IEEE 802.15.4 technology is appropriate for medical WPAN sensor network implementation.
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Paper Nr: 113
Title:

FPGA-BASED COMPUTATION OF THE INDUCTANCE OF COILS USED FOR THE MAGNETIC STIMULATION OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
Authors:

Ionuţ Trestian, Octavian Cret, Laura Creţ, Lucia Vacariu, Radu Tudoran and Florent de Dinechin
Abstract: In the last years the interest for magnetic stimulation of the human nervous tissue has increased considerably, because this technique has proved its utility and applicability both as a diagnostic and as a treatment instrument. Research in this domain is aimed at removing some of the disadvantages of the technique: the lack of focalization of the stimulated region and the reduced efficiency of the energetic transfer from the stimulating coil to the tissue. Better stimulation coils can solve these problems. Designing coils is so far a trial-and error process, relying on very compute-intensive simulations. In software, such a simulation has a very high running time. This paper proposes and demonstrates an FPGA-based hardware implementation of this simulation, which reduces the computation time by 4 orders of magnitude. Thanks to this powerful tool, some significant improvements in the design of the coils have already been obtained.
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Paper Nr: 115
Title:

VISION OF THE VIRTUAL PROGRAMMER - Steps Towards Change in Instrument Systems for Implantable Medical Devices
Authors:

Touby Drew and Steven Goetz
Abstract: Active implantable medical devices increasingly depend on and interact with external systems of instrument hardware and software. Based on our work in defining and refining the direction of next generation instruments, we submit that there are and will increasingly be a trend towards complex, mainstream instrument systems, which are distributed, decoupled and part of rich modular information ecologies. As this shift occurs, important challenges arise and must be met with domain-specific solutions including those in the areas of security, repartitioning, and changes to instrument architecture and development.
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Paper Nr: 116
Title:

AUTOMATIC DEACTIVATION DESIGN FOR PHASED ARRAY SURFACE PROBE IN 1.5T MRI
Authors:

Fotios Vlachos, Anastasios D. Garetsos and Nikolaos K. Uzunoglu
Abstract: We have designed and developed an automatic switching mechanism that deactivates and activates a reception coil during the MR experiment according to the phase it is at. The mechanism uses a feedback loop in which a comparator defines whether the current reception signal derives from the RF excitation pulses or the MR signal and then triggers an analog switch at the back-end of the coil accordingly. We applied the mechanism on a custom-made four channel phased array probe and tested its functionality by transmitting RF pulses to the probe of similar length and power to those used in actual MRI systems. The results presented in this paper demonstrate the robustness of the design and its switching accuracy.
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Paper Nr: 126
Title:

STUDY OF A 4DOF UPPER-LIMB POWER-ASSIST EXOSKELETON WITH PERCEPTION-ASSIST - Second Stage of Power-Assist
Authors:

Kazuo Kiguchi and Manoj Liyanage
Abstract: As a second stage of the research on power-assist exoskeleton systems, this paper presents a new concept of an upper-limb power-assist exoskeleton that can assist physically weak persons in performing their daily activities. The proposed exoskeleton assists not only the motion of the user but also the perception of the user by using sensors. In the proposed power-assist method, the assisted user’s motion can be modified based on the environmental information obtained by the sensors if problems are found in the user’s motion. The effectiveness of the proposed concept is evaluated by performing experiments.
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Paper Nr: 147
Title:

PULSE-TYPE NEURO DEVICES WITH SPIKE TIMING DEPENDENT SYNAPTIC PLASTICITY
Authors:

Katsutoshi Saeki, Yugo Hayashi and Yoshifumi Sekine
Abstract: Even though the neurons in the human brain are sensitive to noises, human central nervous systems can operate correctly under a noisy environment. Since neural networks have superior information processing functions, many investigators have attemptted to model biological neurons and neural networks. A number of recent studies of neural networks have been conducted with the purpose of applying engineering to the brain. Especially, neuro devices have been created that focus on how to have a learning function. Here, we focus on spike timing dependent synaptic plasticity (STDP) and construct pulse-type neuro devices with STDP using analog VLSI technology. We show that it is possible to extract phase differences representing the reinforcement part of the synaptic weight by using pulse-type neuro devices with STDP. Moreover, we investigate noise tolerance for thermal noise and fluctuation of time.
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Paper Nr: 149
Title:

PERSONAL TELEMETRIC SYSTEM – GUARDIAN
Authors:

Dalibor Janckulik, Ondrej Krejcar and Jan Martinovic
Abstract: This project deals with the problems of utilization of mobile equipment working in the biomedicine field, particularly telemedicine. This field is relatively new; it focuses on the observation of life functions from a distance. Practically developing system works with an ECG sensor connected to mobile equipment, such as PDA/Embedded, based on Microsoft Windows operating system. The whole system is based on the architecture of .NET Compact Framework, and other products, such as SQL Server by Microsoft too. This work also deals with the communication of mobile equipment with sensors and with the server via Bluetooth, WiFi, and GPRS/EDGE. The mobile equipment used serves primarily for measuring and processing of data from the sensors and their visualization as a graph. The data is also given to the server for further processing and the analysis of current health of the patients, due to small efficiency of the mobile equipment (Janckulík, 2007). The main task we deal with in the server part of application is receiving of the data via web services and further processing, management and analysis of this data. For the analysis of received data and further evaluation of the electrocardiogram, there is a self-organizing neural network (Vašíček, 2007).
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Paper Nr: 156
Title:

HIGH RESOLUTION ECG AND DEPTH DATA LOGGER - A Novel Device to Study Breath Hold Diving Induced Variations of the PQ Interval
Authors:

Arne Sieber, R. Bedini, X. Yong, A. Navarri, M. Dalle Luche, A. L’Abbate and P. Dario
Abstract: Breath hold diving induces several physiological effects. The authors speculate that next to bradycardia, vasoconstriction, splenic contraction and blood shift, the form of the ECG and especially the PQ interval are also affected. Investigations of this effect requires a high resolution ECG monitor which is also capable of recording depth. This paper describes our data logger prototype. It samples ECG data at 1200 Hz, is equipped with three temperature and a pressure sensor that allows depth measurement up to 140 m and stores all the data in an ASCII text file on a SD flash card in FAT 16 or FAT32 file format. The prototype is then encapsulated in a Lexan tube with an outer diameter of 42 mm and an overall length of 18cm that should withstand 20 bar pressure equal to 200 m depth.
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Paper Nr: 160
Title:

NEWBORN HEARING SCREENER BASED ON AUTOMATIC AUDITORY BRAINSTEM RESPONSE DETECTION
Authors:

Julio A. Aldonate, Carlos Hugo Mercuri, José Biurrun, Juan Manuel Reta, Claudia Bonell, Gerardo G. Gentiletti, Sergio Escobar and Rubén Acevedo
Abstract: Hearing loss is one of the pathologies with the highest prevalence in newborns. If it is not detected in time, it can affect the nervous system and cause problems in speech, language and cognitive development. The recommended methods for early detection are based on otoacoustic emissions (OAE) and/or auditory brainstem response (ABR). In this work, the design and implementation of an automated system based on ABR to detect hearing loss in newborns is presented. Preliminary evaluation in adults was satisfactory.
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Paper Nr: 192
Title:

APPLICATION OF WEIGHTED LEAST SQUARES TO CALIBRATE A DIGITAL SYSTEM FOR MEASURING THE RESPIRATORY PRESSURES
Authors:

José Ferreira, Nadja Carvalho Pereira, Marconi de Oliveria Júnior, João Lucas da Silva, Flávio Henrique Vasconcelos, Carlos Julio Tierra-Criollo, Raquel Britto and Verônica Franco Parreira
Abstract: This article presents the results associated to calibration and evaluation of the measurement uncertainty of a digital respiratory pressures measuring system developed at the Biomedical Engineering Research & Development Laboratory (NEPEB) of the Department of Electrical Engineering – UFMG. The proposed method uses the least squares weighted regression to establish the measurement model and to evaluate the uncertainty. The standard expanded uncertainty estimated by the model was 1.4 kPa.
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Paper Nr: 198
Title:

THERMORESPONSIVE POLYMER-BASED MICRODEVICE FOR NANO-LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY
Authors:

Guillaume Paumier, Sovann Siv, Aurélien Bancaud, Jan Sudor and Anne-Marie Gué
Abstract: We report here on the development of an integrated device for sample desalting and pre-concentration for nanoLC / ESI-MS analysis combining poly-(N-isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM) grafted microbeads and the means to dynamically control their temperature. Thermoresponsive properties of PNIPAM induce switchable hydrophobic/hydrophilic surfaces on which peptides can reversibly adsorb and desorb. The device is fabricated on a glass or pyrex substrate with deposited Ti/Au electrodes serving as built-in resistive heating sources. Pre-molded microfluidic channels and reservoirs made in PDMS are eventually assembled. Electrical and thermal characterization together with multiphysics modeling have been performed. The SiO2 surfaces of the channels and silica beads used as carriers of the stationary phases have been end-grafted with PNIPAM and employed to study the reversible adsorption and release kinetics of albumin-fluorescein conjugates by fluorescence video microscopy. It is clearly shown albumin-fluorescein complexes adsorb on beads surfaces above the transition temperature of PNIPAM (hydrophobic state), and are released when the temperature decreases (hydrophilic state), yet not fully reversibly.
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Paper Nr: 199
Title:

WIRELESS CONTEXTUAL INFORMATION ELECTRONIC SYSTEM FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Authors:

Susana Borromeo, C. Rodriguez-Sánchez, Juan Hernández-Tamames and N. Malpica
Abstract: AbstractIn this work we present a prototype of two electronic devices for providing relevant information to people with disabilities, such as the blind, deaf or elderly, in public environments (railway stations, airports, etc). Usually, this kind of collectivities is discriminated in terms of information access. Most of the public information is in text panels, monitors or traffic signals. The rights of these people are easily forgotten. With this work we try to make an effort in this direction facilitating the information access to these groups. In order to avoid them feeling different we try to adapt the transmission to standard portable devices. We based the work on bluetooth technology. Concerned by costs, in order to popularize this technology, our designs use off-the-shelf components. We also propose a new device to avoid the proximity marketing spam so that these people don’t suffer its consequences.
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Paper Nr: 200
Title:

ULTRASONIC MOTION TRACKING OF INSTRUMENTS IN OPERATING THEATRE
Authors:

Alejandro Ibarz, Roberto Casas, Álvaro Marco, Hector Gracia Montero, Rubén Blasco and Jorge Falcó
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to address the design of a system to track surgical instrument’s movement during an operation. Motion tracking of surgical instruments is one of the most interesting methods to survey the data needed for medical robotics, computer-aided surgery, skills assessment and training progress applications. Over the wide range of tracking technologies, low frequency ultrasound was selected to meet the system’s requirements. Factors that bring about measurement inaccuracies are analysed and taken into account when developing the system. Furthermore, a localization algorithm that calculates three-dimensional position using one-dimensional distances and overriding signal blockage is presented. Moreover, experimental results of a resectoscope mock up motion tracking are shown.
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Paper Nr: 201
Title:

AUTOMATED CELL CHARACTERIZATION PLATFORM: APPLICATION TO YEAST PROTOPLAST STUDY BY ELECTROROTATION
Authors:

laforet julie, Frenea-Robin Marie, Ceremonie Helene, Buret Francois and Nicolas Laurent
Abstract: This paper is about the development of a new automated platform dedicated to cell manipulation and characterization by dielectrophoretic methods. We illustrate its possibilities by studying yeast protoplasts and yeast cells electrorotation spectra, obtained using polynomial microelectrode structures powered by computer-controlled generators. Measurements were made over the frequency range 100 kHz to 80MHz, mostly in a suspending medium of conductivity 50 mS/m inside the rotation chamber. The rotation rate of yeast protoplasts was inferior to that of whole yeast cells. To understand such behavioral differences, yeast protoplasts were modelled as single-shell spheres in a first approach.
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Paper Nr: 204
Title:

COMPACT PULSE OXIMETER USING PIC18F4550 MICROCONTROLLER
Authors:

Leonardo Z. Vilhegas, Adir J. Moreira and Ronaldo Domingues Mansano
Abstract: In this paper is propose one compact pulse oximeter system using a PIC18F4550 micrcontroller, which use of USB (Universal Serial Bus) communication technology. The device has one LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 20x4 to continuous check and has the possibility to get one parallel communication with a PC (Personal Computer) to analysis more detailed. The system is compound for oxygen saturation measures (SpO2) and heart rate. The equipment is compact and show easy to handle and simple use.
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Paper Nr: 206
Title:

A PORTABLE ECG DEVICE IN A HOME CARE ENVIRONMENT USING BURST TRANSMISSION
Authors:

Emilio Bumachar, Rodrigo V. Andreão and José P. Filho
Abstract: This article presents a wireless microcontrolled system for ECG home monitoring. The main particularity of the system is related to the data transmission strategy, which is intermittent to save battery power. In order to evaluate the potential of the strategy proposed to diminish power consumption, a comparison of the transmission time spent is made between a theoretical estimation and the experiments.
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Paper Nr: 207
Title:

DEVELOPMENT OF AN AMPEROMETRIC SENSOR FOR POTASSIUM IONS
Authors:

Marcos S. Teixeira, Alex S. Lima, Patricia Monteiro Seraphim and Nerilso Bocchi
Abstract: Hollandite-type manganese oxides are nanofibrous crystals with sub-nanometer open tunnels that provide a unique property for sensing applications. Sensor based on hollandite-type manganese oxide was investigated for amperometric detection of potassium. With an operating potential of +0.63 V versus SCE, potassium ions produce oxidation currents at the sensor, which can be exploited for quantitative determinations. The amperometric signals are linearly proportional to potassium ions concentration in the range 2.7 × 10−4 to 9.1 ×10−4 mol l−1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.9990. The construction and renewal are simple and inexpensive.
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Paper Nr: 208
Title:

WIDEBAND WIRELESS LINK FOR BCI CONTROL - 100 kHz – 8/16 Channel for High Resolution EEG
Authors:

Celso Figueiredo, N. S. Dias, J. H. Correia and Paulo Mendes
Abstract: This work presents a solution to obtain a wireless biopotential acquisition system with high data rate. Wireless systems are currently emerging with the possibility of being used for monitorization of several physiological parameters. However, most of the solutions are based on standard wireless systems. Besides the wireless throughput limitation, those systems are also limited in their software solutions and data acquisition capabilities. A trade-off solution between commercial of-the-shelf and custom design was explored by interfacing a MICAz with external instrumentation, while maximizing the rate of communication. The wireless system is being used for BCI control, operates at 2.4 GHz (Zigbee compliant), with a data rate of 250 Kbps for wireless link, and up to 1 Mbps for serial communication. Signals down to about 23 µV can be detected, and 8/16 single-ended channels are provided with 100 kHz sampling rate.
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Paper Nr: 209
Title:

OPTIMIZATION OF A FES CYCLING NEUROPROSTHESIS ON STROKE PATIENTS BY MEANS OF THE LEFT AND RIGHT CRANK MEASUREMENTS
Authors:

Simona Ferrante , Lorenzo Comolli, Alessandra Pedrocchi, Marco Bocciolone, Giancarlo Ferrigno and Franco Molteni
Abstract: The use of functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a well established method in the rehabilitation of stroke patients. In particular, a bilateral movement such as cycling induced by FES would be crucial for these patients who had an unilateral motor impairment and had to recover an equivalent use of the limbs. To improve the rehabilitative effects of the FES cycling, a metrologically qualified cycle-ergometer was used, so that the left and right crank torque values are measured in real-time. Three protocols were evaluated. First, healthy subjects performed voluntary pedaling. Second, healthy subjects were stimulated one muscle individually to study the contribution of each single muscle to the cycling. Third, stroke patients executed a complete FES cycling trials. Results demonstrated that the proposed sensors could be successfully used to monitor online the unbalance of the cycling. Single muscle tests showed that only the quadriceps and the hamstrings provided a significant contribution to the crank torque. Patient trials confirmed the difficulty for stroke subjects to carry out symmetrical cycling. The use of the proposed sensors, hence, could offer a good signal for biofeedback neuroprostheses and for closed loop controllers.
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Paper Nr: 210
Title:

THRESHOLD LOGIC GENE REGULATORY MODEL - Prediction of Dorsal-ventral Patterning and Hardware-based Simulation of Drosophila
Authors:

Tejaswi Gowda, Samuel Leshner, Sarma Vrudhula and Seungchan Kim
Abstract: Precise characterization of gene regulatory mechanisms is a fundamental problem in developmental biology. In this paper we present a new gene regulatory network (GRN) model which is based on threshold logic (TL). Two different set of genes are responsible for the cell patterning of the Drosophila embryo. By using the proposed threshold logic gene regulatory model (TLGRM), we derive the different gene regulatory rules for the gene products involved. We use these rules to model and explain the interaction between the genes. Very large or complex gene regulatory networks are difficult to simulate using a general purpose CPU. Specialized programmable hardware provides additional concurrency and is an alternative to a large and expensive cluster of machines. The steady state gene expression predicted by the model clearly mimics the actual wild-type gene expression along the dorsal-ventral axis in the Drosophila embryo. We thus demonstrate that for a well characterized gene regulatory system, the nature and topology of interaction is enough to model gene regulation. We also demonstrate through proof of concept that using hardware-based simulation, it is possible to achieve orders of magnitude of performance improvement over conventional CPU-based simulation.
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Paper Nr: 212
Title:

SOFTWARE FOR EMBEDDED CONTROLLER DESIGN - Application in Air and Water Caloric Electronystagmographic Stimulators
Authors:

Carlos Richter, Paulo Mendes, MAURICIO TAVARES and Vinicius Alves
Abstract: This paper describes the development and tests of a software which was projected to support the work of designing and testing dedicated embedded controllers. It was developed to accomplish two main features: helping to model the physical system to be controlled; and helping to easily implement and test a proposed controller to be applied to the physical system. Two practical applications are presented. The first one is the design of a temperature controller for a new version of a water caloric stimulator named E96, which has as main requirement fast and accurate temperature response with no overshoot. The second one is also a caloric stimulator, but the transfer media is air instead of water. Those equipments help otorhinolaryngologists in electronystagmography exam. Details on the caloric stimulators hardware and software, the proposed controllers and the results, are presented. The software was considered functional for the proposed applications.
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Paper Nr: 218
Title:

AN OBJECTIVE METHOD TO EVALUATE FORCE AND KNEE JOINT MOMENTS DURING ISOMETRIC EXTENSION
Authors:

Francesco Paez, C. Frigo, E. Pavan, E. Guanziroli and S. Frasca
Abstract: A simple method to evaluate force and moments of knee joint during isometric extension has been developed and provides to the physicians a fast and objective tool for the evaluation of patients before and after a surgery or rehabilitative program. The experiment was made on normal young patients. Graphs of angle-moment were obtained. The patients started from 90° of knee flexion and extended step-by-step the knee joint until the maximum knee extension was achieved. Force, angle and moment were measured at each step. In comparison with literature, even if significant differences of technical instrumentation, age and activity of the patients are present, the maximum moment-angle behaviour during extension is the same but different magnitude. Future development of this device is to make it easy to use directly in clinical applications.
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Paper Nr: 220
Title:

STUDY OF DENTAL GYPSUM USING FIBRE SENSORS - Analysis of Different Water/Powder Ratios of High Strength Dental Stone
Authors:

Nélia Alberto, Rogério N. Nogueira, Lídia Carvalho, Ilda Abe, Hypolito Kalinowski and João Pinto
Abstract: In this work, we present a device to measure strain and temperature, based on fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors. The performance of these sensors was assessed in the study of a type of dental gypsum, namely high strength dental stone. It was intended to know the influence of the water/powder (W/P) ratios in the setting time and expansion. The results show that, a change in the W/P ratio influences the setting time as well as maximum strain values. The data was compared with the values foreseen in ANSI/ADA specification nº 25. The information that can be obtained with these sensors is quite important to dental prosthesis technicians, in order to achieve more accurate dental prosthesis and these sensors can be a good substitute to the actually device that is used to evaluate the setting expansion: extensometer.
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Paper Nr: 223
Title:

ELECTRONIC DEVICES FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF HEARING
Authors:

Albrecht Eiber
Abstract: The effect of specific hearing impairments can be alleviated or compensated using electrically driven hearing aids. There is a broad variety of devices for stimulating the hearing either acoustically, mechanically or electrically. Their applications depend on the type, the severity and the location of a particular impairment. In order to get an optimal reconstruction, additionally to the medical aspects the dynamical behavior of the implant has to be regarded together with the individual situation of the patient simultaneously. Because of the broad variation of individuals and situations, the belonging parameters are time dependent and vary in a wide range, too. Thus, the design of a hearing device must be robust or insensitive against parameter variation and a sensitivity analysis with respect to parameters of the device, variation of anatomy and variation of insertion is needed. By means of mechanical simulation models enhanced by the behavior of the actuator and its control, the dynamical behavior of implants can be calculated and optimized. Such simulations helps to shorten series of experiments in the lab and in clinical practice and guidelines for the designer and for the surgeon can be derived.
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Paper Nr: 224
Title:

A MICRO ULTRA LOW POWER RF RADIO FOR NEURAL SIGNAL RECORDING
Authors:

Rui Zhong, Ce Liu, Haleh Fotowat and Fabrizio Gabbiani
Abstract: This paper reports the development of a small, light-weight and mini-battery operated low power radio transmitter for neural signal recording. This system allows recording of neural signal down to the level of 50 μV. A micromachined electrode is used to obtain these signals. The neural signal is then amplified 10,000 times and transmitted to the receiver at 433 MHz. The manufactured radio system is 7 mm by 6 mm in size and 0.5 gram in weight, with a power consumption of 750 μW. Radio functionality is tested and verified on locusts.
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Paper Nr: 225
Title:

NONLINEAR MODELLING IN BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS USING ANNS
Authors:

Vanco Litovski and Miona Andrejevic Stosovic
Abstract: During the design of many biomedical prostheses based on electrical and electronic fundamental actions, simulation is indispensable. It comprises, however, necessity for adequate models to be used. Main difficulties related to the modelling of such devices is their nonlinearity and dynamic behavior. Here we report application of recurrent artificial neural network for modelling of a nonlinear two-terminal circuit equivalent to a specific implantable hearing device. The method is general in the sense that any nonlinear dynamic two-terminal device or circuit may be modelled in the same way. The model generated was successfully used for simulation and optimization of a driver (operational amplifier) - transducer ensemble. That confirms our claim that optimization in the electrical domain should take place in order to achieve best performance of the hearing aid. It is to be contrasted to the optical methods based on surgery frequently used.
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Paper Nr: 232
Title:

SOFT GELS WITH HIGH ELECTRIC, ULTRASOUND CONDUCTIVITY AND STABLE THREE-DIMENSIONAL CONFIGURATION AS ENERGY TRANSMISSIBLE MEDIA
Authors:

Yasuo Shikinami, Kazuhiro Yasukawa and Tsuta Kaoru
Abstract: We had synthesized single component permanent gels, segmented polyurethane gels (SPUGs), essentially consisting of gelatinizing component-only, of which almost of segments and dangling chains are liquid state at ambient temperatures. SPUGs transmit energy well such as electricity, light and ultrasound. In this article, SPUGs were improved by adding dispersive media into swollen SPUGs (S-SPUGs), which acquired higher electric conductivity (1.2×10-3 S/cm) at room temperature and lower ultrasound attenuation (0.13 dB/ MHz cm) than SPUGs and readily responded to very low mechanical stress (Young modulus 3.7×104 Pa) due to its high flexibility like soft tissues of living body. The S-SPUGs, which have three-dimensionally casting moldability and stable configuration, are potentially applicable to soft biomaterials with energy transmissible, transducing faculty.
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Paper Nr: 235
Title:

PATIENT-ADAPTABLE BIOMEDICAL DEVICES - Benefits and Barriers for Granting Patients More Control
Authors:

James Smith and Andre Seyfarth
Abstract: End-users of biomedical devices, like many patients undergoing treatment in healthcare systems, often demonstrate an active interest in their therapy. Patient-specific customization of medical devices, such as orthoses, prostheses and implants, is an expensive, time-consuming process. Given how many of these patients are pro-active and self-motivated it seems appropriate to the authors that these characteristics be harnessed to make the adaptation of the device to the patient more cost effective. In short, it is proposed that the device end-user – the patient – play an active role in the tuning and adaptation of the device, especially in the out-patient context. However, the perceived risk associated with a more pro-active and independent role for the patient is a barrier to this possibility. These factors are examined and a proposal for a practical approach to a patient-controlled device optimization process is put forward.
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