bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FANTASI SEKSUAL PADA PENYANDANG DISABILITAS INTELEKTUAL REMAJA AKHIR
Authors: Diawardani Stevani
Published: February 2021

Kasus perilaku seksual menyimpang pada penyandang disabilitas intelektualsemakin meningkat. Perilaku seksual tersebut muncul karena adanya dorongan hasratseksual. Fantasi seksual diketahui dapat memfasilitasi individu untuk menyalurkan hasratseksual. Penelitiain ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi isi fantasi dan situasi di mana fantasiitu terjadi, serta mendeskripsikan perilaku sebagai ekspresi dari fantasi seksual. Penelitianini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan fenomenologis. Partisipan dalampenelitian ini berjumlah dua orang. Partisipan pertama berjenis kelamin pria dan partisipankedua berjenis kelamin wanita. Kedua partisipan merupakan siswa lulusan Balai BesarRehabilitasi Sosial Penyandang Disabilitas Intelektual (BBRSPDI) di Temanggung. Hasiltemuan dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat stimulus yang dapat mendorongpartisipan untuk melakukan fantasi seksual. Isi fantasi seksual kedua partisipan di dominasioleh fantasi seksual dengan pasangan masa depan, fantasi hubungan intim, serta fantasibentuk tubuh dan alat kelamin. Terdapat perbedaan isi fantasi pada partisipan pria danwanita. Partisipan pria memiliki fantasi seksual yang lebih variatif. Penyandang disabilitasintelektual memiliki fantasi seksual yang bersifat real.Kata kunci: fantasi seksual, perilaku seksual, disabilitas intelektual
Dampak Psikologis Akibat Covid-19 pada Masyarakat Indonesia
Authors: Susilowati Desi Wahyu
Published: February 2021

Covid-19 or Corona Virus Disease become an outbreak for the world, including Indonesia. People have been doing something to prevent Covid-19. Quarantine, social distancing, and keeping healthy is the government program to reduce the spread of Virus. This condition gives impact for everyone especially in psychology. This research aims to find correlation distress and obsessive compulsive disorder for pandemic. This research is quantitative research with correlational methods. The data have been collected from 157 subjects who are over twenty years old with distress and obsessive compulsive disorder scale. Data analysis method used is the product moment correlation from Pearson. The result showed that sign (0.000)
Acoustic impact of the human skull on transcranial photoacoustic imaging
Authors: Liang Bingyang , Wang Shaomeng , Shen Fei , Liu Qing Huo , Gong Yubin , Yao Junjie
Published: February 2021

With balanced spatial resolution, imaging depth, and functional sensitivity, photoacoustic tomography (PAT) hold great promise for human brain imaging. However, the strong acoustic attenuation and aberration of the human skull (∼8 mm thick) are longstanding technical challenges for PAT of the human brain. In this work, we numerically investigated the impacts of the stratified human skull on photoacoustic wave propagation (i.e., the forward model) and PAT image formation (i.e., the inverse model). We simulated two representative transcranial PAT implementations: photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) and photoacoustic macroscopy (PAMac). In the forward model, we simulated the detailed photoacoustic wave propagation from a point or line source through a digital human skull. The wave attenuation, refraction, mode conversation, and reverberation were thoroughly investigated. In the inverse model, we reconstructed the transcranial PACT and PAMac images of a point or line target enclosed by the human skull. Our results demonstrate that transcranial PAMac suffers mainly from wave reverberation within the skull, leading to prolonged signal duration and reduced axial resolution. Transcranial PACT is more susceptible to the skull’s acoustic distortion, mode conversion, and reverberation, which collectively lead to strong image artifacts and deteriorated spatial resolutions. We also found that PACT with a ring-shaped transducer array shows more tolerance of the skull’s adverse impacts and can provide more accurate image reconstruction. Our results suggest that incorporating the skull’s geometry and acoustic properties can improve transcranial PAT image reconstruction. We expect that our results have provided a more comprehensive understanding of the acoustic impact of the human skull on transcranial PAT.
Fiber based all-optical infinite impulse response filter tuned via stimulated Brillouin scattering
Authors: Asraf Sagie , Šprem Marko , Zalevsky Zeev
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we present a novel configuration for an all-fiber tunable infinite impulse response optical filter using stimulated Brillouin scattering. By applying the Brillouin acoustic waves within the coupling area of an optical coupler, we can control its transmissivity and so to affect the spectral response of the IIR optical filter. In this paper, we explain the principle of operation of the proposed device and experimentally demonstrate the ability to control the spectral response of an optical filter based on fiber ring resonator configuration.
The impact of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on health and wellbeing in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA): A case study of Kenya
Authors: Ochola Elizabeth A. , Karanja Diana M. S. , Elliott Susan J.
Published: February 2021

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) remain endemic to many regions of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) left behind by socioeconomic progress. As such, these diseases are markers of extreme poverty and inequity that are propagated by the political, economic, social, and cultural systems that affect health and wellbeing. As countries embrace and work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the needs of such vulnerable populations need to be addressed in local and global arenas. The research uses primary qualitative data collected from five NTD endemic counties of Kenya: interviews key informants (n = 21) involved in NTD implementation programs and focus groups (n = 5) of affected individuals. Informed by theories of political ecology of health, the research focuses on post-devolution Kenya and identifies the political, economic, social, and cultural factors that propagate NTDs and their effects on health and wellbeing. Our findings indicate that structural factors such as competing political interests, health worker strikes, inadequate budgetary allocations, economic opportunity, marginalization, illiteracy, entrenched cultural norms and practices, poor access to water, sanitation and housing, all serve to propagate NTD transmission and subsequently affect the health and wellbeing of populations. As such, we recommend that post-devolution Kenya ensures local political, economic and socio-cultural structures are equitable, sensitive and responsive to the needs of all people. We also propose poverty alleviation through capacity building and empowerment as a means of tackling NTDs for sustained economic opportunity and productivity at the local and national level.
Survival outcome and prognostic factors of patients with nasopharyngeal cancer in Yogyakarta, Indonesia: A hospital-based retrospective study
Authors: Hutajulu Susanna Hilda , Howdon Daniel , Taroeno-Hariadi Kartika Widayati , Hardianti Mardiah Suci , Purwanto Ibnu , Indrasari Sagung Rai , Herdini Camelia , Hariwiyanto Bambang , Ghozali Ahmad , Kusumo Henry , Dhamiyati Wigati , Dwidanarti Sri Retna , Tan I. Bing , Kurnianda Johan , Allsop Matthew John
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the survival outcome and prognostic factors of patients with nasopharyngeal cancer accessing treatment in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

Methods

Data on 759 patients with NPC diagnosed from 2007 to 2016 at Dr Sardjito General Hospital were included. Potential prognostic variables included sociodemographic, clinicopathology and treatment parameters. Multivariable analyses were implemented using semi-parametric Cox proportional hazards modelling and fully parametric survival analysis.

Results

The median time of observation was 14.39 months. In the whole cohort the median observed survival was 31.08 months. In the univariable analysis, age, education status, insurance type, BMI, ECOG index, stage and treatment strategy had an impact on overall survival (OS) (p values <0.01). Semi-parametric multivariable analyses with stage stratification showed that education status, ECOG index, and treatment modality were independent prognostic factors for OS (p values <0.05). In the fully parametric models age, education status, ECOG index, stage, and treatment modality were independent prognostic factors for OS (p values <0.05). For both multivariable analyses, all treatment strategies were associated with a reduced hazard (semi-parametric models, p values <0.05) and a better OS (parametric models, p values <0.05) compared with no treatment. Furthermore, compared with radiation alone or chemotherapy alone, a combination of chemotherapy and radiation either in a form of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), sequential chemotherapy and radiation, or induction chemotherapy followed by CCRT demonstrated a reduced hazard (hazard ratio/HR 0.226, 95% confidence interval/CI 0.089–0.363, and HR 0.390, 95%CI 0.260–0.519) and a better OS (time ratio/TR 3.108, 95%CI 1.274–4.942 and TR 2.531, 95%CI 1.829–3.233) (p values < 0.01).

Conclusions

Median OS for the cohort was low compared to those reported in both endemic and non-endemic regions. By combining the findings of multivariable analyses, we showed that age, education status, ECOG index, stage and first treatment modality were independent predictors for the OS.
Measurement properties of the one-minute sit-to-stand test in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis: A multicenter randomized cross-over trial
Authors: Combret Yann , Boujibar Fairuz , Gennari Charlotte , Medrinal Clément , Sicinski Sophie , Bonnevie Tristan , Gravier Francis-Edouard , Laurans Muriel , Marguet Christophe , Le Roux Pascal , Lamia Bouchra , Prieur Guillaume , Reychler Grégory
Published: February 2021

Background

Functional exercise capacity assessment is recommended in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a valid evaluation of exercise capacity but can be technically complex. Inversely, the sit-to-stand test (STST) is a simple method to evaluate exercise capacity, and is validated in healthy children and adults with CF. This study aimed to evaluate STST measurement properties in children and adolescents with CF.

Methods

In this multicenter study, children with CF (6 to 18 years) performed two iterations of both the STST and the 6MWT in a randomized order. Criterion validity was determined by assessing correlations between STST repetitions and 6MWT distance (6MWD). Intra-rater reliability, test-retest repeatability, mean bias and limits of agreement were also assessed. Relationships with other outcomes (i.e. respiratory and quadriceps muscle strength) and cardio-respiratory responses were analysed for both tests.

Results

Thirty-six children with CF were included (mean age 12.0 ±3.5 years and FEV1 95.8 ±25.0%). On average, 39.6 ±10.5 repetitions were performed during the STST and mean 6MWD was 596.0 ±102.6 meters. STST number of repetitions was significantly correlated with 6MWD (r = 0.48; p<0.01). Both tests had very good intra-rater reliability (ICCSTST = 0.91 (95%CI 0.76–0.96) and ICC6MWT = 0.94 (95%CI 0.85–0.97)), and a significant test-retest learning effect. The number of STST repetitions was not correlated with quadriceps or respiratory muscle strength test, and the STST induced fewer cardio-respiratory responses than the 6MWT.

Conclusions

The STST is an easy-to-use functional test with moderate criterion validity when compared to the 6MWT in children with CF, probably because both tests measure different components of functional exercise capacity. The STST is useful when the 6MWT is unfeasible, however further investigations are required to explore the clinical implications of STST results in children with CF.

Clinical trial registration

NCT03069625.
Úton a megoldásalapú gondolkodás felé – szolgálatosodási jellemzők magyarországi termelővállalatoknál (Towards solution-based thinking: characteristics of servitization at Hungarian manufacturing companies)
Authors: Demeter Krisztina , Szász Levente
Published: February 2021

A cikk fő célja a magyarországi termelővállalatok szolgálatosodási folyamatának jellemzése a versenyképesség- kutatás adatainak felhasználásával. Relevanciáját az adja, hogy a nemzetközi szakirodalom a jelenséget inkább a fejlett országokban vizsgálja. A szerzők kutatásukban körüljárták, hogy a szolgálatosodás nemzetközi szakirodalom által elfogadott jellemzői mennyiben tekinthetők érvényesnek a magyarországi viszonyok közepette. A szolgálatosodást három szinten vizsgálták: stratégia, működés és pénzügyi eredményesség. Vizsgálatuk eredményei azt mutatják, hogy a nemzetközi szakirodalommal összhangban a szolgáltatások stratégiai szerepe még alacsony a magyarországi termelővállalatoknál a termelési stratégia többi versenycéljához képest. Ugyanakkor mintájukban már megtalálhatók azok a vállalatok, amelyek mind stratégiai, mind működési szinten jelentősebb hangsúlyt fektetnek a szolgáltatások nyújtására. Fontos eredmény ugyanakkor, hogy a szolgálatosodástól elvárt pénzügyi előnyök még ezeknél a vállalatoknál sem realizálódnak. _______ The main purpose of the authors is to describe the servitization process of Hungarian manufacturing companies based on data of the Competitiveness research. The relevance of this article is given by the fact that international literature analyzes this phenomenon mainly in developed countries. In the present paper they analyze to what extent characteristics of the servitization process, generally accepted in the literature, are also applicable in a developing macroenvironment, i.e. Hungary. They approach servitization from three different perspectives: strategy, operations and financial payoffs. Results of their analysis show that, in concordance with the literature, the strategic role of services at the Hungarian manufacturing companies is still lower than other manufacturing competitive priorities. However, their sample contains a number manufacturing companies that place a greater emphasis on offering services both on strategic and operational level. An important conclusion of their study is that in case of these companies financial benefits attributable to higher levels of servitization do not yet seem to materialize.
Adaptációra vállalkozni – avagy vállalkozói szerepek megjelenése a környezet és az alkalmazkodás viszonyában (Attempting to adapt – Entreprenurial roles in the adaptation process to environmental changes)
Authors: Orosz Emese
Published: February 2021

A szerző cikkében arra a kérdésre keresi a választ, hogy a kis- és középvállalkozások vezetőinek sajátos környezethez fűződő viszonyát alapul véve milyen vállalkozói szerepek azonosíthatóak a környezeti változásokra való reagálás során. A kutatás központi kérdése, hogy a vállalkozó miként tekint magára az adaptációra a turbulensen változó környezeti viszonyok között, és magának milyen szerepet szán az alkalmazkodási folyamat során. A cikk bemutatja a vállalkozó személyiségének alapvető vonásait, külön kitérve a vállalkozó vezető személyére, majd ezt követően az adaptáció legjellemzőbb formáit és tulajdonságait helyezi középpontba. A tanulmány 14 hazai kis- és középvállalkozás vezetőjével készített interjú feldolgozásával, valamint Hortoványi és Szabó (2006a) adaptációs stratégiai típusai alapján három kategóriát azonosít a környezetfelfogás és reagálás kontextusában. ______ This paper focuses on the role of the entrepreneur in the adaptation process, how we can determine the role of the entrepreneur to environmental changes and to strategic adaptation itself. The paper begins with the presentation of the entrepreneurial models, focusing on the entrepreneurial management afterwards continues with a brief summary of the adaptation approach to strategy. Emphasizing that adaptation to changes can vary as innovation or entrepreneurship is concerned. Proactivity presents an adaptation strategy and moreover can be related to entrepreneurial behaviour and therefore characterizes the viewpoint of the entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs have to react to the changing environmental with analysis and proactive reaction, as future and innovation orientation is an integrate part of their entrepreneurial personality. Examining 14 interviews made with Hungarian entrepreneurs the paper identifies three categories which determine the role of the entrepreneurs in the adaptation process.
Les origines de la vie : sciences, légende et poésie
Authors: Wanlin Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Faced with the scientific hypotheses of the 18th and 19th centuries on the origins of life, some authors try to maintain the creationist imagery while others develop representations of the gradual emergence of life forms from inert matter (heterogeny). The divide is not between the scientific and the literary: what is most remarkable is the pooling of all resources, the borrowing from various disciplines to put words to the emergence of life. This mix of science, poetry, myth and observation, which can be likened to the category of the legendary, shows that science and the humanities dialogue and interpenetrate despite ideological and religious obstacles, and recalls the unity of the cultural whole.
« La religion se trouvera vraie » : désenchantement et merveilles de la science chez Renan
Authors: Fayolle Azélie
Published: February 2021

In 1863, the publication of Vie de Jésus makes Renan part of the movement of “desymbolisation” and secularization of sacred texts. Eliminating the notion of miracles from his writing on religion, Renan anticipates the pattern of Weber and Gauchet’s “disenchantment of the world”. It is thus by the methods of scientific analysis (eviction of miracles and psychological explications instead) that Renan is able to piece together the Messiah’s life, putting forward the idea of an organic Parousia, and making science a new religious ideal.
La controverse Doyère-Pouchet sur la reviviscence animale et ses échos dans L’Homme à l’oreille cassée d’Edmond About
Authors: Sukiennicka Marta
Published: February 2021

Rotifers and tardigrades, microscopic animals discovered in the 18th century, have exceptional abilities to survive in hostile conditions. Exposing them to desiccation, extreme temperatures, and vacuum, scientists wanted to determine whether these animals die and revive, or whether they preserve a trace of life in these lethal conditions. The question of boundaries of life had been the subject of scientific controversy throughout the 19th century, an example of which was the debate between L. Doyère and F.-A. Pouchet in the late 1850s. Its echoes can be found in E. About’s science-fiction novel L’Homme à l’oreille cassée (1861), in which tardigrades’ ability to revive is extrapolated to humans.
Don't Just Judge the Spelling! The Influence of Spelling on Assessing Second-Language Student Essays
Authors: Jansen Thorben , Vögelin Cristina , Machts Nils , Keller Stefan Daniel , Möller Jens
Published: February 2021

When judging subject-specific aspects of students’ texts, teachers should assess various characteristics, e.g., spelling and content, independently of one another since these characteristics are indicators of different skills. Independent judgments enable teachers to adapt their classroom instruction according to students’ skills. It is still unclear how well teachers meet this challenge and which intervention could be helpful to them. In Study 1, N = 51 pre-service teachers assessed four authentic English as a Second Language (ESL) essays with different overall text qualities and different qualities of spelling using holistic and analytic rating scales. Results showed a negative influence of the experimentally manipulated spelling errors on the judgment of almost all textual characteristics. In Study 2, an experimental prompt was used to reduce this judgment error. Participants who were made aware of the judgment error caused by spelling errors formed their judgments in a less biased way, indicating a reduction of bias. The determinants of the observed effects and their practical implications are discussed.
Development of a biodegradable microstent for minimally invasive treatment of Fallopian tube occlusions
Authors: Dierke Ariane , Borowski Finja , Großmann Swen , Brandt-Wunderlich Christoph , Matschegewski Claudia , Rosam Paula , Stiehm Michael , Bock Andrea , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Siewert Stefan , Pilz Nico , Reister Paul , Schümann Kerstin , Grabow Niels , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Einenkel Rebekka , Zygmunt Marek , Hinze Ulf , Chichkov Boris , Keiler Jonas , Wree Andreas
Published: February 2021

Obstructions of the Fallopian tube represent one of the most common reasons for an unfulfilled desire to have children. Microstent technology opens up new therapeutic possibilities to restore the natural lumen of the Fallopian tube within a single treatment. Within the current work we developed a self-expandable biodegradable microstent for gynecological applications. Based on a novel microstent design, prototypes were manufactured from poly-L-lactide tubing by means of fs-laser cutting. Microstent prototypes were characterized morphologically by means of scanning electron microscopy and biaxial laser scanning. As manufactured, a microstents outside diameter of about 2.3 mm and a strut thickness / width of about 114 μm / 103 μm was measured. Mechanical characterization of microstents included bending as well as crimping and release behavior. After crimping to a minimum diameter of 0.8 mm and consecutive release, a microstent recovery to a diameter of 1.8 mm was found. Therefore, proof-of-concept for the self-expandable microstent could be successfully provided.
Automated incisional hernia characterization by non-rigid registration of CT images – a pilot study
Authors: Voß Samuel , Lösel Philipp D. , Heuveline Vincent , Saalfeld Sylvia , Berg Philipp , Kallinowski Friedrich
Published: February 2021

Incisional hernia repair makes use of prosthetic meshes to re-establish a biomechanically stable abdominal wall. Mesh sizing and fixation have been found to be essential for the clinical outcome. Comparative CT images a) under rest versus b) under Valsalva maneuver (exhalation against closed airways) provide useful information for hernia characterization. However, this process incorporates several manual measurements, which led to observer variability. The present study suggests using an image registration approach of the CT data to reliably and reproducibly extract hernia quantities. The routine is implemented in the software framework MATLAB and works fully automatic. After CT data import, slice by slice undergo non-rigid B-spline grid registration. Local displacement and strain are extracted from the transformation field. The qualitative results correspond to the clinical observation. Maximum displacement of 3.5 cm and maximum strain of 25 % are calculated for one patient’s data set. Current approaches do not provide this type of information. Further research will focus on validation and possibilities to include this new kind of knowledge into the design process of prosthetic meshes.
Developments in Modelling Bone Screwing
Authors: Wilkie Jack , Docherty Paul D. , Möller Knut
Published: February 2021

INTRODUCTION: A torque-rotation model of the bone-screwing process has been proposed. Identification of model parameters using recorded data could potentially be used to determine the material properties of bone. These properties can then be used to recommend tightening torques to avoid over or under-tightening of bone screws. This paper improves an existing model to formulate it in terms of material properties and remove some assumptions. METHOD: The modelling methodology considers a critical torque, which is required to overcome friction and advance the screw into the bone. Below this torque the screw may rotate with elastic deformation of the bone tissue, and above this the screw moves relative to the bone, and the speed is governed by a speed-torque model of the operator’s hand. The model is formulated in terms of elastic modulus, ultimite tensile strength, and frictional coefficient of the bone and the geometry of the screw and hole. RESULTS: The model output shows the speed decreasing and torque increasing as the screw advances into the bone, due to increasing resistance. The general shape of the torque and speed follow the input effort. Compared with the existing model, this model removes the assumption of viscous friction, models the increase in friction as the screw advances into the bone, and is directly in terms of the bone material properties. CONCLUSION: The model presented makes significant improvements on the existing model. However it is intended for use in parameter identification, which was not evaluated here. Further simulation and experimental validation is required to establish the accuracy and fitness of this model for identifying bone material properties.
Robot-assisted Ultrasound-guided Tracking of Anatomical Structures for the Application of Focused Ultrasound
Authors: Unger Michael , Berger Johann , Gerold Bjoern , Melzer Andreas
Published: February 2021

High intensity focused ultrasound is used as a surgical tool to treat completely non-invasively several diseases. Examples of clinical applications are uterine fibroids, prostate cancer, thyroid nodules, and varicose veins. Precise targeting is key for improving the treatment outcome. A method for an automated, robot-assisted tracking system was developed and evaluated. A wireless ultrasound scanner was used to acquire images of the target, in this case, a blood vessel. The active contour approach by Chan and Vese was used to segment and track while moving the scanner along the target structure with a collaborative robotic arm. The performance was assessed using a custom made Agar phantom. The mean tracking error, which is defined as the remaining distance of the lesion to the images’ centre line, was 0.27 mm ± 0.18 mm.
Development of a multi-well-chip for studying 2D and 3D tumor cell migration and spheroid growth in electrical fields
Authors: Kemkemer Ralf , Naggay Benjamin K. , Schmidt Tobias B. , Ende Karen
Published: February 2021

Endogenous electrical fields play an important role in various physiological and pathological events. Yet the effects of electrical cues on processes such as wound healing, tumor development or metastasis are still rarely investigated, though it is known that direct current electrical fields can alter cell migration or proliferation in vitro. Several 2D experimental models for studying cell responses to direct current electrical fields have been presented and characterized but suitable experimental models for electrotaxis studies in 3D are rare. Here we present a novel, easy-to-produce, multi-well-based galvanotactic-chamber for the use in 2D and 3D cell experiments for investigations on the influence of electrical fields on tumor cell migration and tumor spheroid growth. Our presented system allows the simultaneous application of electrical field to cells in four chambers, either cultured on the bottom of the culture-plate (2D) or embedded in hydrogel filled channels (3D). The set-up is also suitable for, live-cell-imaging. Validation tests show stable electrical fields and high cell viabilities inside the channel. Tumor spheroids of various diameters can be exposed to direct current electrical fields up to one week.
Initial study on removing cellular residues from hydrostatic high-pressure treated allogeneic tissue using ultrasound
Authors: Drobek Christoph , Waletzko Janine , Dau Michael , Frerich Bernhard , Weißmann Volker , Schwerdt Daniela , Seehafer Stefan , Mau Robert , Seitz Hermann , Jonitz-Heincke Anika , Bader Rainer
Published: February 2021

Hydrostatic high-pressure technology (HHD) devitalizes tissue quickly and gently, without negatively affecting the structural properties. HHD-treated tissues must be cleaned from devitalized cells. A partially automated, gentle, reproducible and timesaving rinsing test setup utilizing ultrasound is demonstrated in this study. The test setup is used to clean HHD-treated bone allografts of tissue residues and prevent microbiological contamination. A rinsing procedure is investigated. Residual DNA content determination is utilized to analyze cleaned bone allograft tissue for rinsing procedure evaluation.
A pilot study: development of bonepreserving- biomimetic artificial femoral head cover
Authors: Siroros Nad , Liu Yu , Lecouturier Sophie , Tingart Markus , Eschweiler Jörg
Published: February 2021

Patients with hip arthrosis are increasing each year where total hip replacement is an effective solution when other non-invasive or surgical methods are no longer an effective solution. A pilot study of a new bone-preserving-biomimetic artificial femoral head cover was initiated. The purpose of the new implant is to be an alternative to the current hip arthroplasties. A special polyurethane (PU) femoral head cover was mechanically tested. Experiments were performed to investigate the implants mechanical behaviour and response to tensile load and study on the locking mechanism design concept of the prosthesis. The femoral head cover had a 45 mm outer diameter. Two suture techniques were selected to represent possible locking mechanisms. The experiment consisted of five cyclic loadings followed by a pull-to-failure test. The results show that each specimen has a consistency response and different suture technique results in a different outcome. This experiment intended to study the response of specimens as a whole part, not the material itself. Factors are influencing the outcome such as the femoral head cover positioning and suture rupture pattern. From this pilot study, some points need to be further considered. The information obtained in this experiment would influence further development achieving towards the goal of this alternative hip arthrosis treatment.
Wearable Impedance Pneumography
Authors: Klum Michael , Urban Mike , Pielmus Alexandru-Gabriel , Orglmeister Reinhold
Published: February 2021

Respiratory diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide. The prevalence of sleep apnea, its cardiovascular consequences, postoperative respiratory instability and severe respiratory syndromes further highlight the importance of respiratory monitoring. Typical methods, however, rely on obtrusive nasal cannulas and belts. Impedance pneumography (IP) is a promising bioimpedance application which aims to estimate respiratory parameters from the thorax impedance. Currently, IP configurations require large inter-electrode distances, diminishing its applicability in a wearable context. We propose an IP configuration with 55 mm spacing using our recently presented sensor patch. In a study including 10 healthy subjects, respiratory rate (RR) and flow are estimated in the supine, lateral and prone position. Using time-delay neural network regression, RR errors below 1 bpm, flow correlations of 0.81 and relative flow errors of 38 % with respect to a pneumotachometer reference were achieved. We conclude that high accuracy RR estimation is possible in a 55 mm IP configuration. Respiratory flow can be roughly estimated. Further research combining several biosignals for a more robust, wearable flow estimation is recommended.
Metabolic Imaging by Simultaneous FLIM of NAD(P)H and FAD
Authors: Becker Wolfgang , Braun Lukas , Suarez-Ibarrol Rodrigo , Miernik Arkadiusz
Published: February 2021

We describe a metabolic imaging system based on simultaneous recording of lifetime images of NAD(P)H and FAD. The system uses one-photon excitation by ps diode lasers, scanning by galvanometer mirrors, confocal detection, and two parallel TCSPC FLIM recording channels. Two lasers, with wavelengths of 375nm and 410 nm, are multiplexed to alternatingly excite NAD(P)H and FAD. One FLIM channel detects in the emission band of NAD(P)H, the other in the emission band of FAD. For both channels, the data analysis delivers images of the amplitudes of the decay components, a1 and a2. We show that these are robust parameters to characterize the metabolic state of cells. FLIM results obtained from excised human-bladder tissue were in perfect agreement with histology.
Detecting Bacteria on Wounds with Hyperspectral Imaging in Fluorescence Mode
Authors: Hornberger Christoph. , Herrmann Bert. H. , Daeschlein Georg , Podewils Sebastian von , Sicher Claudia , Kuhn Jana , Masur Kai , Meister Mareike , Wahl Philip
Published: February 2021

Chronic non-healing wounds represent an increasing problem. In order to enable physicians and nurses to make evidence based decisions on wound treatment, the professional societies call for supporting tools to be offered to physicians. Oxygen supply, bacteria colonization and other parameters influence the healing process. So far, these parameters cannot be monitored in an objective and routinely manner. Existing methods like the microbiological analysis of wound swabs, mean a great deal of effort and partly a long delay. In this paper 42 fluorescence images from 42 patients with diabetic foot ulcer, recorded with a hyperspectral imaging system (TIVITA®), converted for fluorescence imaging, were analysed. Beside the fluorescence images, information about the bacterial colonization is available from microbiological analysis of wound swabs. After preprocessing, principal component analysis, PCA, is used for data analysis with a 405 nm excitation wavelength, the emission wavelength range 510 - 745 nm is used for analysis. After dividing the data into a training and a test dataset it could be shown, that bacteria are detectable in the wound area. A quantification in bacterial colonization counts (BCC) was not in the focus of the research in this study stage.
Neurophotonic Scanning System – Towards Automatic Infrared Neurostimulation
Authors: Wegner Celine , Schlett Paul , Hofmann Ulrich G. , Höth Julian , Klotzbücher Thomas , Buckert Thomas , Krüger Thilo B.
Published: February 2021

Intraoperative neuromonitoring is without doubt important for all surgical interventions, where nerve structures are at risk. Mapping techniques for the identification of motor nerves and cortex are available. They rely on manual identification using an electrical stimulation probe. A landmark-based visualization of the results is currently not possible. To overcome these limitations, we are developing a system for automatic stimulation and display of functional tissue. Infrared neurostimulation (INS) was proposed to be a feasible alternative to electrical stimulation of nerves. It provides contactless and artifact-free activation of nerves. For our preclinical experiments we used an infrared diode laser system with a wavelength of 1470 nm. For automatic screening, we developed a scanning system and suitable scan-algorithms in order to provide optimal scanning parameters. Recording of compound muscle action potentials (CMAP) was performed with a differential amplifier and appropriate neurophysiologic software. Subunits of the system were combined via multiple interfaces. A control-software merges all relevant functions of the individual parts and parallel use. Marking of tissue was realized with a red pilot laser deflected by the same scanning system. With this work we could show, that a system for automatic laser deflection with parallel neurophysiologic recording and subsequent highlighting of irradiated tissue is possible. This system can serve as a tool for further systematic investigations in the field of INS.
Fully Data-Driven Pseudohealthy Synthesis for Planning Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Reconstruction using Conditional Variational Autoencoders
Authors: Hagenah Jannis , Mehdi Mohamad , Ernst Floris
Published: February 2021

Aortic root aneurysm is treated by replacing the dilated root by a grafted prosthesis which mimics the native root morphology of the individual patient. The challenge in predicting the optimal prosthesis size rises from the highly patient-specific geometry as well as the absence of the original information on the healthy root. Therefore, the estimation is only possible based on the available pathological data. In this paper, we show that representation learning with Conditional Variational Autoencoders is capable of turning the distorted geometry of the aortic root into smoother shapes while the information on the individual anatomy is preserved. We evaluated this method using ultrasound images of the porcine aortic root alongside their labels. The observed results show highly realistic resemblance in shape and size to the ground truth images. Furthermore, the similarity index has noticeably improved compared to the pathological images. This provides a promising technique in planning individual aortic root replacement.
Sensation thresholds in electrocutaneous stimulation
Authors: Dölker Eva-Maria , Mubin Alkisah binti , Supriyanto Eko , Haase Elke , Krzywinski Sybille , Haueisen Jens
Published: February 2021

Acoustic or visual warning signals for workers in hazardous situations might fail under loud and/or lowvisibility work situations. A warning system should be developed that uses electrocutaneous stimulation through textile electrodes. Previous work investigated suitable stimulation parameters using TENS electrodes. The aim of this study was to compare TENS and textile cuff electrodes in terms of sensation thresholds, qualitative and spatial sensation. A study on 30 healthy volunteers (f=13, m=17) of mean age of 26.7 years was conducted applying bi-phasic rectangular current pulses to electrodes attached to the upper right arm. The study revealed that perception, attention and intolerance thresholds, qualitative and spatial perception are comparable indicating that future studies with the textile cuff electrodes can be generally based on the previous results with TENS electrodes.
Method for assessment of matching of total ankle joint endoprostheses based on CT data
Authors: Martin Heiner , Wittmüß Josephine , Mittlmeier Thomas , Grabow Niels
Published: February 2021

The investigation of matching of endoprosthesis tibial components to the bone cross section is of interest for the manufacturer as well as for the surgeon. On the one hand, a systemic design of the prosthesis and the assortment is possible, on the other hand, a better matching implantation is enabled on the basis of experience of this study. CT sections were segmented manually using a CAD system and fitted by spline functions, then superseded with cross sections of the tibial component of a modified Hintermann H3 prosthesis. The principal moments of inertia, the direction of the principal axes and the area of the section were evaluated. Based on the relative differences of the principal moments of inertia, recommendations for application of the different prosthesis size and its selection with the surgery can be made.
Fibrosis: Altered gene expression in TGF-β stimulated human fibroblasts of the Tenon
Authors: Brietzke Andreas , Guthoff Rudolf , Stahnke Thomas , Grabow Niels
Published: February 2021

Despite decades of research, fibrosis still remains a significant challenge for medicine in many different fields. Although there is a general model of fibrosis, the causes and characteristics of the various pathologies are as diverse as the variety of organs and tissues that can be affected by fibrosis. Moreover, fibrosis also impedes the long-term prospects of success in implantation surgery. One possibility to address this challenge is the development of biocompatible implants featuring drug delivery systems loaded with antifibrotic pharmaceuticals. Due to diverse regulatory mechanisms in organs, tissues and also cell types, these active substances must consequentially be designed for diverse specific applications. Compared to fibrosis in organs like lung or liver, these mechanisms were poorly addressed in ophthalmologic research, but it is known that transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) plays a key role. This gene expression study revealed 30 genes being upregulated more than two fold in TGF-β1 treated human primary tenon fibroblasts (hTF). Furthermore, 15 genes were found to be downregulated more than two fold. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and inhibin beta (INHBE) were particular strongly regulated in TGF-β1 treated hTFs.
MagCPP: A C++ toolbox for Combining Neurofeedback with Magstim transcranial magnetic stimulators
Authors: Oppermann Hannes , Wichum Felix , Haueisen Jens , Klemm Matthias , Esch Lorenz
Published: February 2021

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an established method to treat various neurological diseases, such as depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and tinnitus. New applications for TMS are closed loop neurofeedback (NF) scenarios, which require software control of the TMS system, instead of the currently used manual control. Hence, the MagCPP (https://github.com/MagCPP) toolbox was developed and is described in this work. The toolbox enables the external control of Magstim TMS devices via a C++ interface. Comparing MagCPP to two other toolboxes in a TMS application scenario with 40% power, we found that MagCPP works faster and has lower variability in repeated runs (MagCPP, Python, MATLAB [mean±std in seconds]: 1.19±0.00, 1.59±0.01, 1.44±0.02). An integration of MagCPP in a real-time data processing platform MNE-CPP with an optional GUI demonstrates its ability as part of a closed-loop NF-scenario. With its performing advantages over other toolboxes, MagCPP is a first step towards a complete closed loop NF scenario and offers possibilities for novel study designs.
Compact Microscope Module for High- Throughput Microscopy
Authors: Schäfer Max B. , Weiland Sophie , Stewart Kent W. , Pott Peter P.
Published: February 2021

Microscopy is an essential tool in research and science. However, it is relatively resource consuming regarding cost, time of usage, and consumable supplies. Current low-cost approaches provide good imaging quality but struggle in terms of versatility or applicability to varying setups. In this paper, a Compact Microscope Module for versatile application in custom-made setups or research projects is presented. As a first application and proof of concept, the use of the module in a High-Throughput Microscope for screening of samples in microtiter plates is shown. The Compact Microscope Module allows for simple and resource-efficient microscopy in various applications while still enabling relatively good imaging qualities.
Validation of iterative CT reconstruction by inter and intra observer performance assessment of artificial lung foci
Authors: König Britta , Guberina Nika , Kühl Hilmar , Zylka Waldemar
Published: February 2021

We investigate the suitability of statistical and model-based iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithm strengths and their influence on image quality and diagnostic performance in low-dose computer tomography (CT) protocols for lung-cancer screening procedures. We evaluate the inter- and intra-observer performance for the assessment of iterative CT reconstruction. Artificial lung foci shaped as spheres and spicules made from material with calibrated Hounsfield units were pressed within layered granules in lung lobes of an anthropomorphic phantom. Adaptively, a soft-tissue- and fat- extension ring were attached. The phantom with foci was scanned using standard high contrast, low-dose and ultra lowdose protocols. For reconstruction the IR algorithm ADMIRE at four different strength levels were used. Two ranking tests and Friedman statistics were performed. Fleiss k and modified Cohen’s kneywere used to quantify inter- and intra-observer performance. In conjunction with the standard lung kernel BL75 radiologists evaluated medium to high IR strength, with preference to S4, as suitable for lung foci detection. When varying reconstruction kernels the ranking became more random than with varying phantom diameter. The inter-observer reliability shows poor to slight agreement expressed by k<0 and k=0-0.20 . For the intra-observer reliability non- agreement with kney=0-0.20and moderate agreement with kney=0.60-0.79 for the first ranking test, and almost perfect agreement with kney>0.90 for the second ranking test was observed. In conclusion, our validation suggests radiological preference of medium to high iteration strengths, especially S4, for lung foci detection. An investigation of the correlation between diagnostic experience and the subjective perception of IR reconstructed CT images still needs to be investigated.
Decomposition and modeling of signal shapes of single point cardiac monitoring
Authors: Eyvazi Hesar Milad , Madhat Munief Walid , Müller Achim , Ponon Nikhil , Ingebrandt Sven
Published: February 2021

We introduce a novel method for electronic recording of cardiac signals from a single point at the skin in contrast to classical differential electrocardiography (ECG). Ultralownoise transistor devices with an adaptable, auto-stabilizing transimpedance amplifier are able to measure tiny skin potential modulations from a single contact electrode located at an individual’s wrist (single-point cardiography-SPC). Although SPC signals were highly prone to interspersed noise, they contained periodic patterns. In an electromagnetically shielded setting, we could clearly extract breathing and cardiac rhythms from the acquired SPC signals. As the reference, we measured ECG in parallel. Several signal-processing techniques like smoothening, correlation, decomposition and signal extraction showed that SPC signals contain breathing and periodic heart potential variations, which are time-correlated with ECG. In the future, we intent to use this novel technique to measure heart signals from patients in different health conditions.
How do we need to adapt Biomedical Engineering Education for the Health 4.0 challenges?
Authors: Fritzsche Holger , Boese Axel , Friebe Michael
Published: February 2021

Novel challenges and developments require adaptations on skill set, content, and associated education. A biomedical engineer will require a broad range of skills - which to a large extent are currently not taught - in the coming years to meet the development needs of future healthcare: intensive interdisciplinary team work, advanced communication skills, team management and coaching capabilities, advanced project management, learn how to learn, visionary and forward looking thinking, understanding of health economics, entrepreneurship and leadership. But above all empathy towards the clinical user and patients is needed as well as a basic understanding of the current and future clinical workflows that can globally vary. An innovation process for a healthcare related product or service will likely only create value through the consideration and implementation of several of these points. Even though techniques for the development of innovation and enhancing creativity in individuals are widely discussed, there are relatively few reports on the practice of mainstreaming creativity in an organizational setting. We report on the setup of our Graduate School “Technology Innovation in Therapy and Imaging (T²I²)” that has implemented a structured post graduate program and focuses on interdisciplinary and application-oriented innovation generation education. The educational process starts with the observation and identification of clinical needs and an in-depth understanding of the problem and subsequently covers all steps necessary to transfer prototypes into viable solutions and further into implementing valuable products.