BIODEVICES 2025 Abstracts

Full Papers Short Papers
Full Papers
Paper Nr: 32
Title:

Developing a Head-Attached Interface Device for Closed-Loop Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation in the Mouse Brain
Authors:

Ryo Furukawa, Shuichi Murakami and Takashi Tateno
Abstract: Transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS), which can be used to noninvasively stimulate local and deep brain areas, holds significant promise for clinical applications. However, TUS apparatus is typically constructed with several components, including a relatively large single-element ultrasound (US) transducer, a waveguide, and a driving source. These components pose challenges when conducting experiments with freely moving small animals, especially in the context of wearable devices. Additionally, conventional open-loop stimulation systems do not allow for the simultaneous monitoring of neural activity, which can sometimes result in the overactivation of neural responses. In this study, we developed a head-mounted piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducer (PMUT) array with integrated monitoring electrodes to serve as a TUS interface for mice. To determine effective array patterns for optimal US beam profiles, we first conducted beamforming simulations. We then microfabricated the PMUT arrays according to the results of these simulations. Subsequently, we performed electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings to evaluate the potential of TUS in mice while simultaneously monitoring neural activities. Finally, we discuss future applications of a closed-loop TUS system in the treatment of brain diseases.
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Paper Nr: 48
Title:

Electrical Properties of Filled PVA-C for Bioelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy Phantoms
Authors:

Anna Bublex, Amalric Montalibet, Bertrand Massot and Claudine Gehin
Abstract: This paper investigates the electrical properties of polyvinyl alcohol cryogel (PVA-C) filled with various materials to develop biological phantoms for bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) applications. PVA-C is a hydrogel that undergoes cross-linking through freeze-thaw cycling, known for its long-term stability and mechanical properties, which closely mimic those of living tissue, making it a superior alternative to traditional gelling agents such as agar. To assess the impact of different fillers, samples with varying filler proportions were prepared, and their electrical properties were analysed using BIS across a low-frequency range (1 kHz to 1 MHz). The study was divided into two parts: the first one focused on the effects of PVA concentration, the number of freeze-thaw cycles, molecular weight, and time-dependent behaviour on PVA-C’s electrical properties. The second part compared the electrical properties of PVA-C combined with various fillers, including particles, polymers, and ceramics. Finally, the results were compared with existing published data on the electrical properties of living muscle and fat.
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Paper Nr: 66
Title:

Design and Implementation of Capacitive Drip Rate Monitoring Sensor for Intravenous (IV) Administration
Authors:

Sheikh Faisal Ahmad, Byoung Ju Yun, Jun Ho Hwang and Hyun Deok Kim
Abstract: This paper presents a novel capacitive sensor designed for real-time monitoring of the infusion drip rate during intravenous (IV) therapy administration. The proposed sensor, operating on the principle of proximity capacitance sensing, establishes a longitudinal electric field within the IV drip chamber, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of drip rate monitoring under both nominal and adverse operating conditions. Departing from conventional capacitive sensor configurations, the proposed capacitive sensor comprises two coaxial but asymmetrical hollow cylindrical metallic electrodes of distinct top and bottom diameters, separated by a narrow gap and positioned on the IV drip chamber. A comprehensive electrostatic analysis was conducted using finite element method-based numerical simulations for the design and analysis of the proposed proximity capacitive sensor. For a standard 20 drops/ml (GTT/ml) drip factor, simulations indicated 1.4 times increase in the average sensitivity of liquid drop detection using the proposed capacitive sensor compared to the conventional one. The simulation results conclusively demonstrated the superior and more reliable performance of the proposed proximity capacitive sensor across all operating conditions. Additionally, sensitivity measurements confirmed 1.3 times increase in the average sensitivity using the asymmetrical proximity capacitive sensor validating the results obtained from the numerical simulations.
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Paper Nr: 102
Title:

Wearable Sensor Framework for Rehabilitation Monitoring Following Knee-Related Conditions
Authors:

Can Tekdemir, Yusuf Ziya Hayirlioglu, Olgar Birsel and Beren Semiz
Abstract: The knee, being the largest and one of the most complex joints in the body, is highly vulnerable to injury due to its intricate structure and exposure to multi-directional forces. Surgical interventions are among the most frequently utilized treatments for advanced degenerative joint disease. However during the rehabilitation process, physician assessments can be subjective, which may lead to inconsistent evaluations, particularly in subtle or complex cases. To enhance accuracy and reduce variability, objective methodologies like data-driven tools and standardized protocols are necessary. Hence, we propose a multi-modal wearable sensor framework leveraging electrical bioimpedance, acoustical emissions, inertial activity and temperature measurements simultaneously to achieve objective and quantifiable information that can complement clinical judgement, ensuring more reliable and reproducible outcomes in patient care. The system was validated through active (flexion-extension) and inactive (sedentary) measurements, and proven successful in capturing knee-related signatures and assessing the knee joint health. Such a system could facilitate the establishment of a direct relationship between signal characteristics and key knee health parameters, enabling more informed decisions regarding disease or injury status and treatment progress.
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Paper Nr: 109
Title:

White Light Spectroscopy for Mammalian Cell Viability/Quality Assessment: Towards an Online, Label-Free and Sampling-Less System to Simplify Quality Control in CAR T-Cells Production
Authors:

Bruno Wacogne, Céline Codjiova, Jovanne Palvair, Naïs Vaccari, Mélanie Couturier, Alain Rouleau and Annie Frelet-Barrand
Abstract: CAR T-cells are highly promising medical products for personalized medicine, but their long production is complex and require extensive quality controls, which result in prohibitive costs for most patients. These controls include monitoring of cell concentration, viability, and possible contamination detection. To simplify CAR T production, these controls should ideally be conducted online in a closed system, without sampling from the bioreactor. Recently, we proposed white light spectroscopy as a method for online monitoring of cell concentration. In this paper, we demonstrate that this optical method can also assess cell viability. We define a cell suspension "quality value" which shows a linear relationship with cell viability estimated by conventional methods. This relationship varies depending on the techniques used and the dominant T-cell death process induced. We then hypothesise that the quality score could serve as a general indicator of cell suspension health, as it is not dependent on any biophysical-chemical interaction or instrument. Overall, the correlation between conventional and optical methods, together with previously published results on cell concentration monitoring, suggests that white light spectroscopy is a promising on-line and sample-free option for monitoring CAR T production.
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Paper Nr: 189
Title:

Sweat Quantification During Electrodermal Analysis Combining Paper-Based Microfluidics with Printable Electrodes: Design and Materials
Authors:

Batoul Hosseinzadeh, Sarah Tonello, Nicola Francesco Lopomo and Emilio Sardini
Abstract: Significant challenges in Electrodermal Activity (EDA) are represented by poor wearability of commercial electrodes and imprecise differentiation between alterations in skin conductivity due to nervous system activities or sweat secretion in response to other stimuli. In this light, we propose a device that combines paper-based microfluidic with printable electrodes to monitor EDA and sweat rate/volume simultaneously. This setup not only refines wearability by implementing flexible, skin-compatible materials but also improves quantification accuracy by distinguishing between baseline EDA conductivity and actual sweat output providing a higher perception of the physiological state by harmonized sweat and EDA data. The preliminary analysis reported was performed in a laboratory environment aiming at two main objectives: i) optimize the design of paper-microfluidics pattern ii) compare different printable inks to select the most suitable one to minimize contact impedance and achieve a sensitivity comparable to standard EDA electrodes. Results obtained suggested the use of thick teeth design of microfluidics geometry to reduce variability in measurements and Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) as an optimal coating material to provide superior sensitivity (3.07 μS/μl) and repeatability (average Relative Standard Deviation (RSD) of 15%,) with a linearity range of 0-50 µl range while preserving low contact impedance and trustworthy signals.
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Paper Nr: 245
Title:

STELLA+: Expanding the Research Potential for Long-Term Deep Brain Stimulation Studies in Freely-Moving Rodents
Authors:

Franz Plocksties, Christoph Niemann, Mareike Fauser, Alexander Storch, Dirk Timmermann and Christian Haubelt
Abstract: Rodent models are essential for our understanding of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) mechanisms. However, most existing preclinical devices lack to support the broad experimental range required for modern DBS approaches. This paper presents the neurostimulation system STELLA+, which aims to enhance the scope of long-term DBS research in rodent models. STELLA+ upgrades the previous STELLA system that has been successfully used in several rodent studies. It features technical and architectural enhancements to increase performance and functionality for long-term DBS experiments. Initial in vitro findings demonstrate that STELLA+ delivers charge-balanced, current-controlled pulses with high accuracy across a range of stimulation settings up to a compliance voltage of 4.3 V. With a maximum current consumption of 25.1 µA at 4.3 V in bilateral DBS-on mode, STELLA+ enables long-term experiments of 6.8 weeks using a 29 mAh lithiumion battery. Additionally, STELLA+ includes a Bluetooth Low Energy module and the capability to acquire and compute on-board physiological data, enabling adaptive DBS applications. All these features are housed within a compact size of 21x14.5x4 mm, minimizing the impact on rodents. Compared to the other stateof-the-art DBS devices, STELLA+ demonstrates enhanced efficiency in stimulus generation and a uniquely comprehensive feature set.
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Paper Nr: 315
Title:

Embedded System for Responsive Optogenetic Control of Spontaneous Seizures in a Preclinical Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Model
Authors:

Sofie Lasure, Lien De Schaepmeester, Sielke Caestecker, Jeroen Spanoghe, Marijke Vergaelen, Rik Verplancke, Johannes Vierock, Robrecht Raedt and Pieter Bauwens
Abstract: Aims: Responsive neuromodulation employing optogenetics is a promising therapy which provides spatial and temporal specificity for temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), a neurological disorder characterised by the occurrence of spontaneous seizures. In this study, we evaluated whether seizures could be detected with a self-designed minimalist embedded system and terminated through activation of the WiChR opsin in the intrahippocampal kainic acid (IHKA) mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy. Methods: Mice were injected in the hippocampus with kainic acid to simulate TLE and with the AAV2/9 viral vector to induce expression of the WiChR opsin. Intracranial EEG was recorded and processed with a low-power microcontroller to detect the seizure via the amplitude correlation metric. Upon detection, a 473 nm Light Emitting Diode (LED) was activated to illuminate the hippocampus through an optrode. Results: It was possible to responsively illuminate seizures with the embedded system and achieve a significant reduction in seizure duration with a pulse train of 10 Hz, 5 ms, 10 mW for 90 s. A brief parameter study was performed although preliminary results were inconclusive. Conclusions: In this study, we prove that we can responsively suppress seizures in the IHKA mouse model within the limitations of a minimalist embedded system. Additionally, the WiChR opsin has been demonstrated to have a high potential for efficient seizure suppression with limited illumination.
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Paper Nr: 343
Title:

The Bigger the Better? Towards EMG-Based Single-Trial Action Unit Recognition of Subtle Expressions
Authors:

Dennis Küster, Rathi Adarshi Rammohan, Hui Liu, Tanja Schultz and Rainer Koschke
Abstract: Facial expressions are at the heart of everyday social interaction and communication. Their absence, such as in Virtual Reality settings, or due to conditions like Parkinson’s disease, can significantly impact communication. Electromyography (EMG)-based facial action unit recognition (AUR) offers a sensitive and privacy-preserving alternative to video-based methods. However, while prior research has focused on peak intensity action units (AUs), there has been a lack of research on EMG-based AURs for lightweight recording of subtle expressions at multiple muscle sites. This study evaluates EMG-based AUR for both low- and high-intensity expressions across eight AUs using two types of mobile electrodes connected to the Biosignal Plux system. The results of four subjects indicate that even limited data may be sufficient to train reasonably accurate AUR models. Larger snap-on electrodes performed better for peak-intensity AUs, but smaller electrodes resulted in higher performance for low-intensity expressions. These findings suggest that EMG-based AUR is viable for subtle expressions from short data segments and that smaller electrodes hold promise for future applications.
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Short Papers
Paper Nr: 56
Title:

Investigation on Microliter Free Jetting Using a Piezoelectric Micro Pump
Authors:

Anne Zimmermann, Jasmin Podlech, Daniel Anheuer and Christian Wald
Abstract: By avoiding any interaction with surfaces, especially free jetting of liquid pharmaceuticals has numerous advantages such as no cross-contamination of substances, less waste in pipetting, or the possibility of needle-free subcutaneous injections. Dispensing a defined amount of a liquid into air without surface contact requires the formation of a free jet. Therefore, jet generation by a micro pump presents a solution which is versatile in jet volumes while providing minimal dimensions. Jetting is achieved by the quick actuation of the piezoelectric actuator on the pump, leading to the ejection of a volume package that is fast enough to overcome the surface tension at the outlet’s interface, for example a dosing needle. Size and formation of the jet are controlled by matching the micro pump’s driving parameters such as peak-to-peak voltage and signal waveform. The feasibility of this setup is tested as well as parameters optimized for free jetting aqueous solution. Furthermore, the influence of different actuation parameters on the dosing precision is evaluated. A rectangular signal with 250 Hz sine flanks is determined as suitable waveform for the jet generation with the evaluated 20 mm stainless steel micro pump. Simultaneously, varying and matching the amount of pump strokes and voltage amplitude results in adjustable dosing volumes.
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Paper Nr: 58
Title:

Simulation and Evaluation of Thermal Effects Under MRI for Cochlear Implants
Authors:

Yuanling Ma, Dian Yang, Liping Qin, Xuesong Ye and Congcong Zhou
Abstract: Cochlear implantation is a widely used rehabilitation method for severe sensorineural deafness, but MRI scans can induce RF heating in implants, posing safety risks to patients. In this study, a novel finite-element-based electromagnetic and thermal coupled simulation method to obtain the temperature distribution and maximum temperature rise due to RF-induced heating is studied. This method allows for a quick analysis of the worst-case implant configurations and an evaluation of RF heating effects. Additionally, for cochlear implants, we propose a refined model parameters setting method which using a localized cochlear phantom in simulations to analyse key factors affecting RF-induced heating include electrode length, lead trajectory, and phantom model. In this paper, RF heating was evaluated using two phantoms, three electrode lengths, and three typical lead trajectories, with the highest temperature rise observed at 1.922°C in the cochlear phantom. The results show that small variations in electrode length have less impact compared to wire trajectory and phantom model, indicating the need for greater focus on these factors when assessing RF heating in active implants.
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Paper Nr: 92
Title:

Heat Transfer in Laparoscopic Trocar System: Analytical and Numerical Study
Authors:

Mohammad Al Amin Al Tahhan, Wassim Salameh, Ali Shaito, Ali Cherry, Soumaya Berro and Mohamad Hajj-Hassan
Abstract: In laparoscopic surgeries, CO2 insufflation through a trocar system is required to fill the abdominal or pelvic cavity and provide a working space for the surgeon. The problem arises from the heat loss from the CO2 gas to the surroundings of the trocar since it results in a temperature difference between the entering CO2 and the temperature of the patient’s body, which results in fog formation on the camera lens, blocking the surgeon’s vision. This heat loss occurs by convection between the flowing fluid inside and outside the trocar and by conduction through the trocar’s cannula. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the heat loss of CO2 through the trocar cannula for different materials. These materials should meet specific requirements in order to be used in such surgery. The requirements are biocompatibility, transparency, eco-friendliness, and solid state. The selected materials are PET, PVDF, PEI, PEEK, and PC. Heat transfer and finite element analysis case studies were investigated to observe internal fluid flow behavior for velocity profile and temperature distribution. Then, a model was created and simulated on ANSYS workbench using proper boundary conditions that match real-life conditions. Comparative studies were done using ANSYS for the velocity profile, mean temperature distribution, axial temperature distribution, and radial temperature distribution of CO2. The simulated results showed that PVDF was the best material to be used in the composition of the trocar’s cannula since it resisted the most heat transfer, followed by PC, PET, PEEK, and PEI, respectively.
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Paper Nr: 93
Title:

Modeling of an Electric-Based Defogging System for Laparoscopy
Authors:

Ali Al Hadi Orabi Al Haddad, Nour Mansour, Wassim Salameh, Ali Cherry, Bassam Hussein, Houssein Hajj Hassan and Mohamad Hajj-Hassan
Abstract: This paper addresses the common issue of laparoscopic lens fogging (LLF), which hampers the surgeon's visibility and prolongs procedures. The proposed solution involves an advanced electrical defogging system utilizing a thin, conductive transparent material in different configurations such as circular disk and concentric spiral models. These configurations generate consistent heat on the lens surface, minimizing the temperature difference between the lens and the inside of the body. The ideal results were achieved with a 14-circle ITO model, maintaining a constant 310 K (37°C) on the lens surface. Through detailed simulations and modeling, this research demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed system in maintaining a fog-free lens, ultimately reducing operational delays and enhancing both surgical efficiency and patient safety in laparoscopic procedures.
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Paper Nr: 112
Title:

An Easy-to-Implement Multi-Channel Stepper Motor Control System Based on MCU and FPGA
Authors:

Zhen Dai, Congcong Zhou and Xuesong Ye
Abstract: This paper proposes a system architecture based on MCU and FPGA that supports the control of dozens of stepper motors, characterized by low cost, high real-time performance, and ease of implementation. The system leverages the integrated floating-point unit in the MCU, along with its rich peripherals and ease of development, combined with the parallel processing capabilities and abundant I/O resources of the FPGA. Additionally, to address various complex scenarios in medical devices, an asymmetric trapezoidal velocity profile is implemented on the FPGA with minimal resource consumption of 528 LUTs and 353 Flip-Flops. Finally, the feasibility of the circuit is validated through logic waveform capture and oscilloscope measurements, and position error tests on actual stepper motors demonstrate that the system is suitable for most applications.
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Paper Nr: 113
Title:

Evaluating Time-Constant Models in Electrodermal Activity Using Continuous Multi-Frequency Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors:

Emeric Desmazure, Bertrand Massot, Amalric Montalibet and Claudine Gehin
Abstract: A continuous multi-frequency impedance spectroscopy sensor, capable of measuring 16 frequencies, was developed to investigate electrodermal activity. Data was collected from a healthy volunteer over a 30-minute resting period, minimizing interference from the autonomic nervous system. The resulting data were processed with a custom Python algorithm utilizing the ImpedanceFitter library, enabling comparison across models incorporating one, two, and three Cole behaviours. A significant enhancement in accuracy was achieved with the two Cole behaviours over the single Cole behaviour approach, while no additional improvement was observed with a third Cole behaviour. These findings suggest that the two Cole behaviours model provides optimal performance in capturing the complexity of electrodermal activity. Future research will extend this analysis to a larger cohort, exploring how variations in protocol, electrode type, and stimulus may refine the modelling and interpretation of bioimpedance data.
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Paper Nr: 128
Title:

Sorting Circulating Tumor Cells: A Low Flow Microfluidic Pre-Enrichment Function for Improved Separation in Serial Two-Stage Sorting Device
Authors:

Emma Dupont, Emilie Laffont, Marie Piecyk, Léa Payen, Clément Albin, Gilles Simon, Damien Le Roy and Anne-Laure Deman
Abstract: The isolation of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) directly from blood by liquid biopsy could lead to a paradigm shift in clinical cancer care by enabling earlier diagnosis, more accurate prognosis and personalized treatment. Nevertheless, the specific challenges of CTCs, including their rarity and heterogeneity, have so far limited the use of CTCs in clinical studies. Currently, no device fully meets the requirements of high recovery, high purity, short processing time and ease of use for end-users. A promising new strategy involves combining a higher throughput but less specific pre-enrichment step based on size sorting together with a highly specific but slower immunomagnetic sorting. This approach requires the initial function to operate at lower flow rates than commonly used to connect the two functions in series. In this context, we developed a Dean spiral microfluidic device, optimized for sorting 10µm and 15µm beads by size. We showed that it successfully separates mimicking CTCs from white blood cells at low flow rates (<100 mL/h).
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Paper Nr: 205
Title:

Development of WHO Guideline-Complying CD4 Diagnostic Chip
Authors:

Hee Sik Shin and Sungyoung Choi
Abstract: Accurate HIV diagnosis using current WHO complying diagnostic chips that measure CD4 protein expression faces challenges due to donor variability in expression levels and difficulties in isolating target cells with high purity. To overcome these limitations, quantitative measurement of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, along with the effective removal of red blood cells (RBCs) and granulocytes, is essential. We present a self-powered CD4 diagnostic chip platform designed for high0purity target cell separation using a small volume of whole blood. The CD4 diagnostic chip employs magnetic separation to remove non-target cells through negative selection, utilizing ferromagnetic particle-filled inlets and a magnet positioned beneath the inlet. Excessive RBCs and target cells are further separated by size using a microfluidic lattice. This rapid separation process, facilitated by a degassed polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chip, achieves efficient target cell isolation within 20 minutes. During separation, the LEGO-integrated smartphone microscope records a real-time video, which is analyzed using Python-based code. The code distinguishes and removes excess granulocytes based on pixel intensity and precisely counts pure target cells, enabling analysis and potential diagnosis within 1 minute post-separation. The cD4 diagnostic chip is a simple, precise, and rapid platform requiring minimal blood volume, compliant with WHO guidelines for HIV diagnosis.
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Paper Nr: 213
Title:

Analysis of Polymers for Additive Manufacturing: Based Contact Pressure and Force Sensors
Authors:

Tiziano Fapanni, Jacopo Agnelli, Raphael Rosa, Giuseppe Rosace, Francesco Baldi and Nicola Francesco Lopomo
Abstract: The rapid advancements in Industry 4.0 and wearable technology have heightened the demand for flexible, robust, and sensitive sensors that can be integrated into diverse applications. This work investigates the potential of various polymeric materials, processed through additive manufacturing techniques such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA), to act as transducers in contact pressure and force sensors. In this work, four possible polymeric materials were tested. Those materials were specifically selected to present both capacitive and piezoresistive transduction principles, aiming to develop flexible and highly sensitive sensors to pressure variations. In this frame, one of the key challenges is the hysteretic behavior typical of polymeric materials, which affects both mechanical (16.9 % on average) and electrical performance (20.7 % and 24.4% on average on capacitive and resistive devices, respectively). It must be underlined that significant variations were noted between the filled materials and the microstructured one, with the latter one being less stiff and able to withstand lower loads (up to 90 N) with an impressive 13-fold increase in sensitivity compared to thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). This novel approach seems to pave the way for optimizable sensor performance in terms of sensitivity at low loads.
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Paper Nr: 314
Title:

Low Power Logarithmic Current-to-Digital Converter (CDC) Inspired by Molecular Genetic Processes for Biomedical Applications
Authors:

Oren Ilan, Gupta Vishesh and Daniel Ramez
Abstract: A Bio-inspired low-power logarithmic Current-to-Digital Converter is presented. The main building block of the CDC is a computing unit named Perceptgene (PG) that was inspired by molecular biology and has training and computing capabilities in the log domain (Rizik et al., 2022). The Perceptgene which models a nonlinear molecular behavior was implemented using a translinear subthreshold electronic circuit (Oren et al., 2023). Thus the CDC design which uses the Perceptgene building block operates more naturally in the Log domain and is expected to consume low power which can make it usable for biomedical applications.
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Paper Nr: 80
Title:

Instrumented Orthosis for Movement Evaluation and Monitoring in Hand Rehabilitation
Authors:

Alex Sandro Martins Ferreira, Anderson da Silva Rifan Filho, Rodrigo Magnabosco and Maria Claudia F. Castro
Abstract: Hand motor impairments can severely limit the ability to perform everyday tasks, compromising autonomy and overall quality of life. This paper presents the design of an instrumented 3D-printed hand orthosis, entirely fabricated using Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) for flexibility and comfort, and equipped with resistive force and flex sensors to assess hand movements quantitatively. The orthosis allows real-time tracking of finger motions and force exertion during rehabilitation and grasping tasks. It also provides remote access to health professionals for rehabilitation supervision. The orthosis is customized to the user’s hand dimensions using 3D scanning technology, ensuring accurate sensor placement and adaptability to individual needs. This lightweight and flexible solution is designed for home-based rehabilitation, overcoming the limitations of traditional instrumented gloves. The paper details the design, implementation, and potential benefits of this orthosis to improve hand function evaluation recovery in patients with neurological and musculoskeletal conditions.
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Paper Nr: 106
Title:

Electrical Response of Bacteria Cells in Water as Detection Mechanism
Authors:

Abdullah Al-Khulaqi, Abdullah Abdulhameed and Yaqub Mahnashi
Abstract: The detection of bacteria in drinking water is considered a critical step for the treatment and quality analysis of water. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are among the most common bacteria found in water sources in different regions of Saudi Arabia. The detection is determined by using common biochemical tests and sophisticated machine analysis. These methods are not sustainable for continuous daily detection due to their cost and time consumption. However, the electric characterization and separation of bacteria is a cost-effective and promising approach due to its real-time diagnosis and integration capabilities. This study aims to identify the electric characterization of three strands of bacteria, Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, prior to detection. The bacteria are subjected to electric fields with different amplitudes and frequencies on the top of microelectrodes. The movement and resistance of Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa cells are investigated before and after applying the electric field. The movement and reaction of bacteria are observed under a microscope where a stronger response is noticed at higher signal amplitude. Before applying the electric field, the resistances of the above bacteria are found to be 1.28, 11.85, and 7 MΩ. Then, these values change to 4.6, 19, and 3.65 MΩ, respectively, after applying the electric field. In addition, the separation of bacteria in a mixture of Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus at different frequencies is also investigated and presented in this paper.
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Paper Nr: 187
Title:

A Brief Discussion on PDMS Surface Wettability Enhancement Methods for Microfluidic Applications
Authors:

Lucas B. Neves, Inês Maia Gonçalves, João Eduardo Ribeiro, Rui A. Lima and Ana Sofia Moita
Abstract: This position paper examines recent advancements in surface modification techniques for polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to improve its inherent hydrophobicity and enhance its application in microfluidic devices. While PDMS is valued for its transparency, biocompatibility, flexibility, stability, and non-toxicity, its hydrophobic nature limits fluid handling capabilities, which is essential for efficient microfluidic performance. Various methods, including oxygen plasma treatment, UV irradiation, and chemical Layer-by-Layer (LBL) deposition, have been explored to improve PDMS wettability. Surfactant-based modifications have shown promising results for achieving long-term hydrophilicity with straightforward application. Studies demonstrate that methods such as Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) coating and surfactant incorporation enable continuous capillary-driven flow without external pumps and improve sample purity by minimizing issues like bubble formation and cell aggregation. These advancements hold great potential of PDMS modifications to create more efficient and reliable microfluidic devices, and consequently to expand its applications in the biomedical and microfluidic fields.
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Paper Nr: 216
Title:

Wearable Electrodermal Activity Sensor for Real-Time Stress Detection Using Machine Learning
Authors:

Salvador Santos, Joana Sousa and João Ferreira
Abstract: This paper discusses the design and implementation of a wearable electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor intended to detect subtle changes in skin conductivity, which are indicative of emotional states such as stress and anxiety, thus monitoring stress and arousal levels through advanced machine learning techniques. The device incorporates innovative conductive lycra combined with silver-silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) electrodes, enabling optimal skin contact and enhancing signal reliability. This integration allows for effective measurement of EDA. Utilizing the XGBoost algorithm, our machine learning model was trained on the ASCERTAIN dataset, achieving an overall accuracy of approximately 77% in predicting levels of arousal. While the model exhibited some challenges in predicting intermediate arousal states, it demonstrated strong precision and recall for extreme levels of arousal, underscoring its potential applications in mental health monitoring and human-computer interaction. The capabilities of this wearable technology for continuous and long-term health monitoring pave the way for further research into stress assessment and the understanding of emotional responses, emphasizing its relevance in enhancing psychological well-being.
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Paper Nr: 222
Title:

The 3D Printing Center for Health: Advancing Personalized Healthcare Solutions Through Additive Manufacturing
Authors:

Claudia Quaresma, Ana Oliveira, Carla Quintão and Bruno Soares
Abstract: The 3D Printing Center for Health is a non-profit association dedicated to advancing personalized healthcare through the innovative application of 3D printing technology. By using a patient-centered, co-creation methodology, the Center collaborates with patients, healthcare professionals, and engineers throughout the design and development process. This approach enables the production of cost-effective, highly customized medical devices, including prosthetics, orthotics, assistive devices, and anatomical models tailored to meet the unique anatomical and functional needs of each patient. While partnering with hospitals and rehabilitation centers, the Center addresses accessibility and affordability gaps often encountered in traditional healthcare, making advanced solutions more widely available. Clinical studies have shown substantial improvements in patient mobility and satisfaction, as well as a significant reduction in production costs due to the efficiency of additive manufacturing. This paper provides an overview of the Center’s mission, methods, and main achievements, highlighting its contributions to healthcare innovation and improvements in patient-specific care through advanced 3D printing technologies. The Center’s commitment to social responsibility, innovation, and patient-specific design is setting new standards in rehabilitative care and establishing a foundation for future advancements in accessible, high-quality healthcare solutions.
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Paper Nr: 312
Title:

Towards AI-Based Kinematic Data Analysis in Hand Function Assessment: An Exploratory Approach
Authors:

Eveline Prochaska and Martin Sedlmayr
Abstract: Neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), significantly affect hand function, impacting patients' independence and quality of life. The Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT) is a standardized tool widely used to assess upper limb motor function. This paper explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in the analysis of kinematic data obtained from a digitized NHPT prototype. The digital NHPT captures detailed motion data, including timestamps for each action, movement patterns, and filling sequences, enabling advanced analyses of motor and cognitive processes. AI-driven methods, such as clustering, anomaly detection, and pattern recognition, provide innovative ways to evaluate fine motor skills, detect subtle anomalies, and monitor disease progression. The combination of enhanced data collection and AI-based analytics offers a comprehensive and objective approach to understanding hand function, supporting individualized therapy development, and improving clinical diagnostics. This integration represents a significant advancement in the evaluation and management of neurological diseases.
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