bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of lung tissue dynamics in artificially ventilated rats with optical coherence tomography
Authors: Schnabel Christian , Gaertner Maria , Koch Edmund
Published: September 2017

Diseases of lung tissue and the airways become a major task for medical care and health care systems in modern industrial countries in the future. Suitable treatment methods and strategies for lung support and artificial ventilation are of dare need. Besides the obvious importance as life-saving intervention, the effects of usually used over-pressure ventilation onto the sensitive alveolar tissue are insufficiently understood. Therefore, it is of great interest to characterize lung tissue during artificial ventilation at the alveolar level. Those measurements can be used to link micromechanics of alveolar structures to mechanical properties of the whole lung like compliance and resistance measured at the ventilator device. This can be done only in animal experiments due to the fact that imaging techniques used in human diagnostics like CT or MRT fail to resolve alveolar tissue structures. The disadvantage of high-resolution techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or intravital microscopy (IVM) is the need of a surgical access to the lung due to the limitation in penetration depth of these techniques. Furthermore, imaging dynamic processes with high-resolution imaging techniques during uninterrupted artificial ventilation is a challenging task. In this study, we present a measurement setup for combined imaging of conventional pressure-controlled ventilated rats and the visualization of volume changes of alveolar structures during one cycle of breath. A custom-made OCT system in combination with a triggered scanning algorithm was used to acquire time-resolved 3D OCT image data. Furthermore, this system was combined with a self-adapting autofocus function for intravital microscopy to track the lung surface keeping the tissue in focal plane. The combination of new dynamic measurement modes for OCT and IVM allows new insights into alveolar tissue and will promote the understanding of mechanical behavior during artificial ventilation.
Measurement of the energy spectrum of secondary neutrons in a proton therapy environment
Authors: Dommert Martin , Reginatto Marcel , Zboril Miroslav , Fiedler Fine , Helmbrecht Stephan , Enghardt Wolfgang , Lutz Benjamin
Published: September 2017

Measurement of the energy spectrum of secondary neutrons were carried out at the OncoRay Proton Therapy facility in Dresden, following an approach originating in neutron metrology which is well suited for both the characterization of secondary neutron fields at proton therapy facilities and the validation of Monte Carlo simulations. For the experiment, a brass target was placed in the proton beam and Bonner spheres measurements were made at a distance of 2 m from the target and at different angles, 15° to 120°, with respect to the incoming proton beam. The measured spectra were compared to Monte Carlo simulations.
Deep convolutional neural network approach for forehead tissue thickness estimation
Authors: Manit Jirapong , Schweikard Achim , Ernst Floris
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we presented a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) approach for forehead tissue thickness estimation. We use down sampled NIR laser backscattering images acquired from a novel marker-less near-infrared laser-based head tracking system, combined with the beam’s incident angle parameter. These two-channel augmented images were constructed for the CNN input, while a single node output layer represents the estimated value of the forehead tissue thickness. The models were – separately for each subject – trained and tested on datasets acquired from 30 subjects (high resolution MRI data is used as ground truth). To speed up training, we used a pre-trained network from the first subject to bootstrap training for each of the other subjects. We could show a clear improvement for the tissue thickness estimation (mean RMSE of 0.096 mm). This proposed CNN model outperformed previous support vector regression (mean RMSE of 0.155 mm) or Gaussian processes learning approaches (mean RMSE of 0.114 mm) and eliminated their restrictions for future research.
Prompt gamma spectroscopy for range control with CeBr3
Authors: Martins Paulo Magalhaes , Dal Bello Riccardo , Rinscheid Andreas , Roemer Katja , Werner Theresa , Enghardt Wolfgang , Pausch Guntram , Seco Joao
Published: September 2017

The ultimate goal of radiotherapy using external beams is to maximize the dose delivered to the tumor while minimizing the radiation given to surrounding healthy critical organs. Prompt Gamma Spectroscopy (PGS) has been proposed for range control of particle beams along with the determination of the elemental composition of irradiated tissues. We aim at developing a PGS system for the German Cancer Research Center – DKFZ that takes advantage of the superior selectivity of Helium and Carbon beams accelerated at the Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center. Preliminary tests with protons accelerated with an IBA C230 cyclotron located at the Universitäts Protonen Therapie Dresden were performed at OncoRay – National Center for Radiation Re-search in Oncology. We present results obtained with a PGS system composed of CeBr3 detectors (Ø 2’’ × 2’’) and (Ø 1.5’’ × 3’’) coupled to a Hamamatsu R13089 photomulti-plier tube and plugged to a Target U100 Spectrometer. Such system provides accurate time-of-flight measurements to increase the signal-to-noise ratio relative to neutron-induced background. First measurements resulted from the irradiation of PMMA and water phantoms, and graphite and aluminum bricks. Several PG energy lines ranging from 0.511 MeV up to 8 MeV were identified and compared with reference re-sults. Two further experiments consisted in irradiating PMMA phantoms in a slit- and semi-collimated configuration with mono-energetic proton beams of 165 MeV and 224 MeV, respectively. Results acquired by means of trans-versal PGS at different phantom depths, ranging from 6 cm before the Bragg peak (BP) to 3.5 cm beyond the BP in 5 mm steps with a 1 cm slit collimation (tungsten) showed a slight decrease of PG yields after the BP. Similar measurements with a semi-opened collimation configuration demonstrated a steeper decrease of PG yields after the BP.
Investigation of intracochlear dual actuator stimulation in a scaled test rig
Authors: van Drunen Wouter J. , Lachheb Sarra Kacha , Glukhovskoy Anatoly , Twiefel Jens , Wurz Marc C. , Lenarz Thomas , Rau Thomas S. , Majdani Omid
Published: September 2017

For patients suffering from profound hearing loss or deafness still having respectable residual hearing in the low frequency range, the combination of a hearing aid with a cochlear implant results in the best quality of hearing perception (EAS – electric acoustic stimulation). In order to optimize EAS, ongoing research focusses on the integration of these stimuli in a single implant device. Within this study, the performance of piezoelectric actuators, particularly the dual actuator stimulation, in a scaled uncoiled test rig was investigated.
A new device for vein localization and effect of application of disinfectant spray on its efficiency
Authors: Dreyer Jan , Huenges Katharina , Cremer Jochen , Haneya Assad
Published: September 2017

A functional device was developed to immediately show the localization of veins by detecting a temperature increase on the skin directly above them. Our new idea, compared to other developments, is the comparison of temperatures between a small, ideally punctiform, skin area, and a larger circularly surrounding area. This is realized by two infrared temperature sensors, one with a small field of view, and the other one with a larger field of view. The position of the vein is indicated by two laser modules, which beams cross in one spot, when the device is held in a defined distance to the skin. If the device is held over a vein, the laser spot lightens up. The device was tested in ten study participants. Cooling of the skin by disinfectant spray prior to the measurements increases the temperature gradient and thereby improves the efficiency of the device. Temperature profiles of four skin areas of each study participant were measured before and one minute after application of disinfectant spray. After application of disinfectant spray, a temperature difference of more than 0.3 K between a measuring point above a vein and points 15 mm next to this could be found in 36 out of 40 measurements (90%), compared to 26 out of 40 (65%) before disinfection. The mean temperature gradient could be increased from 0.476 K to 1.03 K (p < 0.001).
Expansion characteristics of coronary stents in focal stenoses
Authors: Schmidt Wolfram , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Behrens Peter , Grabow Niels , Ince Hüseyin , Öner Alper
Published: September 2017

The presented experimental in vitro approach was designed to assess the expansion behavior of stent systems in a resistant focal stenosis model with respect to a potential dog-boning effect. Five different stent systems (nominal diameter 3.0 mm) were investigated. The focal stenosis was simulated by a stainless steel tube (ID ≤ 1.20 mm). Stent expansion was performed using a proprietary test device consisting of a test chamber with 37 °C water, 2-axis laser scanner and a pressure controller.

All stents could be properly expanded up to recommended maximum pressure (RBP). At nominal pressure (NP) maximum diameters ranged from 2.923 to 3.560 mm while at RBP the maximum diameters were 3.391 to 3.984 mm. Only minimal flaring of stent struts from the expanded balloon was observed. None of the stent systems failed under the extremely high stress at the edges of the focal stenosis.
A new method for effective dose calculation based on the ambient dose height distribution
Authors: Liebmann Mario , Sangarapillai Niroojiny , Poppe Björn , von Boetticher Heiner
Published: September 2017

The realistic determination of effective dose of the staff in diagnostic radiology has been a challenge both for personal dosimetry and ambient dose measurement. A model for dosimetry of occupational exposure is presented that allows direct determination of effective dose from measured or even manufacturer given ambient dose distribution in front of the personnel. This model considers a wide range of radiation energies, different radiation protection situations, and gender effects.
Video magnification for intraoperative assessment of vascular function
Authors: Naber Ady , Nahm Werner
Published: September 2017

In neurovascular surgery the intraoperative fluorescence angiography has been proven to be a reliable contact-free optical imaging technique to visualize vascular blood-flow. This angiography is obtained by injecting a fluorescence dye e.g. indocyanine green and using an infrared camera system to visualize the fluorescence inside the vessel. Obviously this requires a medical approved dye and an additional camera setup and therefore generating risks and costs. Hence, the aim of our research is to develop a comparable technique for assessing the vascular function. This approach would not require dye nor an additional infrared camera setup. It is achieved by first preprocessing the video data of a camera that records only the visible spectrum and then filter it spatially as well as temporally. The prepared data is again processed to extract information about the vascular function and visualize it. This method would provide an option to compute and visualize the vascular function using the data recorded in the visible spectrum by the surgical microscopes. Given this contact-free optical imaging system, physiological information can be easily provided to the surgeon without an additional setup. In the case of comparable results with the state-of-the-art, this technique provides a straightforward optical intraoperative angiography. Further no drug approval is needed since no dye is injected.
Imaging in hearing using radiotracers
Authors: Berding Georg , Lenarz Thomas
Published: September 2017

Radiotracers offer unique options for brain imaging of functional and molecular processes related to hearing. Such imaging can be applied in a broad spectrum of situations from preclinical research to clinical patient care. Functional imaging to assess activation in brain regions and networks involved in auditory processing uses markers of blood flow or energy-metabolism in well-defined conditions with and without auditory stimulation. Molecular markers can be used in hearing research for example to study changes in inhibitory neurotransmission systems related to hearing loss. For imaging either positron emission tomography (PET) or single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) are employed. Data analysis can encompasses voxel-wise statistical analysis of activation and calculation of quantitative parameters like receptor binding-potentials based on bio-kinetic modeling. Functional imaging has been frequently used in the context of auditory implantation. Before implantation it aims to assess intactness of the central auditory pathway and prognosis. After implantation it is used to improve understanding of the outcome with respect to auditory function and finally speech understanding, e.g. by measuring correlates of central auditory processing and neuroplasticity.
ZebrafishMiner: an open source software for interactive evaluation of domain-specific fluorescence in zebrafish
Authors: Reischl Markus , Bartschat Andreas , Liebel Urban , Gehrig Jochen , Müller Ference , Mikut Ralf
Published: September 2017

High-throughput microscopy makes it possible to observe the morphology of zebrafish on large scale to quantify genetic, toxic or drug effects. The image acquisition is done by automated microscopy, images are evaluated automatically by image processing pipelines, tailored specifically to the requirements of the scientific question. The transfer of such algorithms to other projects, however, is complex due to missing guidelines and lack of mathematical or programming knowledge. In this work, we implement an image processing pipeline for automatic fluorescence quantification in user-defined domains of zebrafish embryos and larvae of different age. The pipeline is capable of detecting embryos and larvae in image stacks and quantifying domain activity. To make this protocol available to the community, we developed an open source software package called „ZebrafishMiner“ which guides the user through all steps of the processing pipeline and makes the algorithms available and easy to handle. We implemented all routines in an MATLAB-based graphical user interface (GUI) that gives the user control over all image processing parameters. The software is shipped with a manual of 30 pages and three tutorial datasets, which guide the user through the manual step by step. It can be downloaded at https://sourceforge.net/projects/scixminer/.
Optimization of diffusion imaging for multiple target regions using maximum likelihood estimation
Authors: Bielak Lars , Bock Michael
Published: September 2017

In this work a procedure is proposed to determine an optimal distribution of b-values in diffusion MRI measu-rements. The optimization procedure uses a method of Maximum Likelihood Estimation which can operate on any given number of b-values, values of the diffusion coefficients (ADC) and measurement noise strengths. Optimal b-values are calculated for white and gray brain matter. An optimi-zation for more than one ADC is demonstrated using multiple target values.
Clinical utility of an endorectal MRI-guided prostate probe: preliminary examinations
Authors: Tödter Julia , Gerken Sarah , Wegener Hans-Peter , Beging Stefan , Ziemons Karl
Published: September 2017

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancer diseases in men in the western countries [1]. Besides the palpation, and the amount of prostate-specific-antigen’s (PSA) inside the blood, the current diagnostic imaging technologies are not appropriate. Early diagnosis defining the exact tumor location, spread and margins could make efficient targeted biopsies and image-guided surgery. A multimodal imaging technique containing a transmit-receive surface coil for anatomical MR imaging, a (S)PET detector module, consisting of silicon photomultipliers (SiPM), for functional imaging and an ultrasound (US) probe are placed as close as possible to the prostate designed as an endorectal tube to increase sensitivity and spatial resolution. All materials that are used are non-magnetic. Advantages of the SiPM are diversified, like non-sensitive to magnetic fields, higher gain (105–106) than standard avalanche photodiodes (APD), good timing properties and compactness. The PET detector should reach approximately 1mm3 spatial resolution together with 60ps FWHM Time-of-Flight resolution and a high efficiency to reduce scanning time and injected dose. A home-made transmit-receive coil surrounding the PET module improves signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) with respect to standard coils will be present. The system will be used as a MRI-insert and be able to visualize anatomic and metabolic information together. The US-probe is guiding examination for correct overlapping of the multimodal images. This procedure will save time, costs and the need of co-registration. By combining all advantages of each system, it will necessarily update the non-invasive treatment of PCa. The system is adapted and tested to a 3 Tesla MR scanner called Trio A Tim system and Allegra system from the company Siemens healthcare with a larmor frequency of 123.2 MHz and an input of 50 Ω free from artifacts. First results on homogeneity of the transmit-receive coil will be presented. Preliminary measurements showing the proposed device is challenging but feasible.
Influence of a transverse magnetic field on the dose deposited by a 6 MV linear accelerator
Authors: Richter Sebastian , Pojtinger Stefan , Mönnich David , Dohm Oliver S. , Thorwarth Daniela
Published: September 2017

An integrated system of a linear accelerator and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device may provide real-time imaging during radiotherapy treatments. This work investigated changes affecting the dose deposition caused by a magnetic field (B-field) transverse to the beam direction by means of Monte Carlo simulations. Two different phantoms were used: A water phantom (Ph1) and a water-air phantom (Ph2) with a 4-2-4 cm water-air-water cross section. Dose depositions were scored for B-field values of 0 T, 0.35 T, 0.5 T, 1.5 T, 3 T and 5 T. Beams were based on a precalculated photon spectrum taken from an earlier simulated Elekta 6 MV FFF accelerator. All lateral profiles in Ph1 showed a Lorentz force driven shift w.r.t. the B-field strength, presenting a steeper penumbra in the shift's direction. Depositions were shifted up to 0.3 cm for 5 T, showing a constant central axis plateau-dose or an increase by 2.3 % for small fields. Depth-dose curves in Ph1 showed a shift of the dose maximum towards the beam entrance direction for increasing B-field of up to 1.1 cm; the maximum dose was increased by 6.9 %. In Ph2, an asymmetric dose increase by up to 36.9 % was observed for 1.5 T at the water-air boundary, resulting from the electron return effect (ERE). In our scenario, B-field dependent dose shifts and local build-ups were observed, which consequently affect the resulting dose distribution and need to be considered in magnetic resonance guided radiotherapy treatment planning.
Comparative investigation of beam quality index Q on flattening filter and flattening filter free 6 and 15 MV photon beams of an medical linear accelerator
Authors: Schaks Michael , Zähle Johannes , Janich Martin , Hübsch Patrick , Homonnay Nico , Gerlach Reinhard
Published: September 2017

An Elekta Synergy LINAC was used to investigate the beam quality index Q and the beam quality correction factor kQ, which is used for absolute dosimetry, in off-axis photon fields. It was found that the beam quality index Q of the photon energies with flattening filter decreases with increasing distance to the central axis, at 6 MV by 4.27% and at 15 MV by 3.98% inside a range of 15 cm off-axis. The beam quality index for flattening filter free photon fields also decreases with increasing distance to the central axis. In this case Q changed only by 1.01% inside the above range.
Comparison of pressure reconstruction approaches based on measured and simulated velocity fields
Authors: Manthey Samuel , Voß Samuel , Roloff Christoph , Stucht Daniel , Thévenin Dominique , Janiga Gábor , Berg Philipp
Published: September 2017

The pressure drop over a pathological vessel section can be used as an important diagnostic indicator. However, it cannot be measured non-invasively. Multiple approaches for pressure reconstruction based on velocity information are available. Regarding in-vivo data introducing uncertainty these approaches may not be robust and therefore validation is required. Within this study, three independent methods to calculate pressure losses from velocity fields were implemented and compared: A three dimensional and a one dimensional method based on the Pressure Poisson Equation (PPE) as well as an approach based on the work-energy equation for incompressible fluids (WERP). In order to evaluate the different approaches, phantoms from pure Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and in-vivo PC-MRI measurements were used. The comparison of all three methods reveals a good agreement with respect to the CFD pressure solutions for simple geometries. However, for more complex geometries all approaches lose accuracy. Hence, this study demonstrates the need for a careful selection of an appropriate pressure reconstruction algorithm.
Comparison of the effectiveness of different antimicrobial surface technologies
Authors: Buhl Sebastian , Käs Sebastian , Stich Alexander , Gruber Sabine , Bulitta Clemens
Published: September 2017

The risk of infection via microbiologically contaminated surfaces has already been demonstrated by other publications. In this work two different antibacterial surface technologies transition metalloacids (AMiSTec) and TiO2/AgNO3 (Health Complete) were compared regarding feasibility as well as their advantages and disadvantages. The examination of the antimicrobial activity was assessed according to the JIS Z 2801. We could demonstrate that all of our tested samples showed a strong antimicrobial activity (>log 3 germ reduction) in the JIS experiments. Furthermore this strong antibacterial effect could be shown already after <30min incubation and at low light intensity (approx. 300 Lux) for the TiO2/AgNO3 samples. Both technologies provide a high potential for an improved infection control for example in a high risk environment like operation rooms or intensive care units.
Image acquisition and planimetry systems to develop wounding techniques in 3D wound model
Authors: Kiefer Ann-Kathrin , Parente Jacquelyn Dawn , Hensler Sabine , Mueller Margareta M. , Moeller Knut
Published: September 2017

Wound healing represents a complex biological repair process. Established 2D monolayers and wounding techniques investigate cell migration, but do not represent coordinated multi-cellular systems. We aim to use wound surface area measurements obtained from image acquisition and planimetry systems to establish our wounding technique and in vitro organotypic tissue. These systems will be used in our future wound healing treatment studies to assess the rate of wound closure in response to wound healing treatment with light therapy (photobiomodulation). The image acquisition and planimetry systems were developed, calibrated, and verified to measure wound surface area in vitro. The system consists of a recording system (Sony DSC HX60, 20.4 M Pixel, 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor) and calibrated with 1mm scale paper. Macro photography with an optical zoom magnification of 2:1 achieves sufficient resolution to evaluate the 3mm wound size and healing growth. The camera system was leveled with an aluminum construction to ensure constant distance and orientation of the images. The JPG-format images were processed with a planimetry system in MATLAB. Edge detection enables definition of the wounded area. Wound area can be calculated with surface integrals. To separate the wounded area from the background, the image was filtered in several steps. Agar models, injured through several test persons with different levels of experience, were used as pilot data to test the planimetry software. These image acquisition and planimetry systems support the development of our wound healing research. The reproducibility of our wounding technique can be assessed by the variability in initial wound surface area. Also, wound healing treatment effects can be assessed by the change in rate of wound closure. These techniques represent the foundations of our wound model, wounding technique, and analysis systems in our ongoing studies in wound healing and therapy.
Closed-loop control system for well-defined oxygen supply in micro-physiological systems
Authors: Steege Tobias , Busek Mathias , Grünzner Stefan , Lasagni Andrés Fabían , Sonntag Frank
Published: September 2017

To improve cell vitality, sufficient oxygen supply is an important factor. A deficiency in oxygen is called Hypoxia and can influence for example tumor growth or inflammatory processes. Hypoxia assays are usually performed with the help of animal or static human cell culture models. The main disadvantage of these methods is that the results are hardly transferable to the human physiology. Microfluidic 3D cell cultivation systems for perfused hypoxia assays may overcome this issue since they can mimic the in-vivo situation in the human body much better. Such a Hypoxia-on-a-Chip system was recently developed. The chip system consists of several individually laser-structured layers which are bonded using a hot press or chemical treatment. Oxygen sensing spots are integrated into the system which can be monitored continuously with an optical sensor by means of fluorescence lifetime detection.

Hereby presented is the developed hard- and software requiered to control the oxygen content within this microfluidic system. This system forms a closed-loop control system which is parameterized and evaluated.
Mutual influence of incorporated drugs in a dual drug delivery coating for cardiovascular applications
Authors: Wulf Katharina , Teske Michael , Matschegewski Claudia , Arbeiter Daniela , Eickner Thomas , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Grabow Niels
Published: September 2017

For a long-term efficient drug-eluting stent for vascular applications, the development of drug-loaded coating, combining the effective inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation while promoting the re-endothelialization, is a promising concept. However the mostly required simultaneous incorporation of drugs can influence decisively the stability, efficacy and release of the respective drug. Therefore, the mutual influence of a dual local drug delivery coatings based on poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLLA-co-CL) containing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF165) coupled to the surface and an embedded drug, such as fluorescein diacetate (FDAc) instead of Paclitaxel (PTX) on the in vitro drug release was investigated. Surprisingly, for the investigated coating the immobilized VEGF loading was enhanced and the release profile was accelerated by FDAc incorporation. Even a manifold increase for the in vitro released amounts of VEGF was detected. In contrast, the immobilization of VEGF seems to have a negligible influence on the in vitro FDAc release profiles.
Glycerol gelatin for 3D-printing of implants using a paste extrusion technique
Authors: Kempin Wiebke , Baden Anna , Weitschies Werner , Seidlitz Anne
Published: September 2017

Fused deposition modeling as an additive manufacturing technique has gained great popularity for the fabrication of medical devices as well as pharmaceutical dosage forms over the last years. Particularly the variety of geometries that can be printed determines the attractiveness of this technique enabling a shape adaption of e.g. implants. In the presented work the soft hydrogel material glycerol gelatin was investigated towards its applicability in 3D-printing as an alternative to the commonly applied and mostly rigid polyesters. Model implants loaded with the model drug quinine and with the shape of a hollow cylinder were printed via an extrusion based technique utilizing the piston feed in a hydrogel filled heatable syringe. Glycerol gelatin hydrogels need to be crosslinked to avoid gel-sol-transition at body temperature. For this purpose three different crosslinking methods (insertion, dipping, spraying) with 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) were evaluated regarding their crosslinking efficiency and drug losses during the crosslinking process. Dipping of the implant into an aqueous solution with at least 50 mM EDC and 10 mM NHS was found to be the most efficient crosslinking technique in conjunction with a smaller drug loss during processing compared to inserting. However, the use of hydrogels also causes problems as an intense and highly variable swelling of the printed structures during crosslinking (120.7 % ± 11.9 % for 10 times dipping in 50mM EDC/10 mM NHS) and a great dependency of the volume on storage conditions complicate the preparation of tailor-made implants. The release of the model drug quinine from printed and crosslinked implants was fast and nearly completed within 6 hours.
Fabrication and electrochemical characterization of ruthenium nanoelectrodes
Authors: Allani Sonja , Jupe Andreas , Figge Martin , Goehlich Andreas , Vogt Holger
Published: September 2017

The Fraunhofer IMS has recently developed a technique for producing nanoelectrodes that are generated by atomic layer deposition (ALD) in a via deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) structured sacrificial layer. This method enables the fabrication of CMOS- and biocompatible nanoelectrodes with suitable ALD-materials. Improvements of the established fabrication processes and the electrochemical characterization of such electrodes are presented. In the frame of the Fraunhofer-Max-Planckcooperation project ZellMOS different types of nanoelectrodes are studied. Their diameter is in the range of 200 nm and thereby sufficiently small to be taken up by living cells. In addition, the electrodes are mechanically enforced by an oxide layer at the nanoelectrodes’ bottom.
Stopping power accuracy and achievable spatial resolution of helium ion imaging using a prototype particle CT detector system
Authors: Volz Lennart , Collins-Fekete Charles-Antoine , Piersimoni Pierluigi , Johnson Robert P. , Bashkirov Vladimir , Schulte Reinhard , Seco Joao
Published: September 2017

A precise relative stopping power map of the patient is crucial for accurate particle therapy. Charged particle imaging determines the stopping power either tomographically – particle computed tomography (pCT) – or by combining prior knowledge from particle radiography (pRad) and x-ray CT. Generally, multiple Coulomb scattering limits the spatial resolution. Compared to protons, heavier particles scatter less due to their lower charge/mass ratio. A theoretical framework to predict the most likely trajectory of particles in matter was developed for light ions up to carbon and was found to be the most accurate for helium comparing for fixed initial velocity. To further investigate the potential of helium in particle imaging, helium computed tomography (HeCT) and radiography (HeRad) were studied at the Heidel-berg Ion-Beam Therapy Centre (HIT) using a prototype pCT detector system registering individual particles, originally developed by the U.S. pCT collaboration. Several phantoms were investigated: modules of the Catphan QA phantom for analysis of spatial resolution and achievable stopping power accuracy, a paediatric head phantom (CIRS) and a custom-made phantom comprised of animal meat enclosed in a 2 % agarose mixture representing human tissue. The pCT images were reconstructed applying the CARP iterative reconstruction algorithm. The MTF10% was investigated using a sharp edge gradient technique. HeRad provides a spatial resolution above that of protons (MTF1010%=6.07 lp/cm for HeRad versus MTF10%=3.35 lp/cm for proton radiography). For HeCT, the spatial resolution was limited by the number of projections acquired (90 projections for a full scan). The RSP accuracy for all inserts of the Catphan CTP404 module was found to be 2.5% or better and is subject to further optimisation. In conclusion, helium imaging appears to offer higher spatial resolution compared to proton imaging. In future studies, the advantage of helium imaging compared to other imaging modalities in clinical applications will be further explored.
Correlation between germ and particle measurements for the qualification of ventilation systems in the OR
Authors: Bulitta Clemens , Walberer Laura , Buhl Sebastian
Published: September 2017

Healthcare associated infections in surgical procedures have long been the focus of scientific research. In Germany, more than 225,000 patients suffer from such infections each year [1]. However, the reduction of the microbiological contamination is not only limited by cleaning and disinfecting measures. The choice of the ventilation system in the operating room or the type of the clothing of the personnel during the operation is also an important factor contributing to patient safety and infection control. Currently there are different approaches for assessing the hygienic situation in an operating room. In Germany, the air quality and cleanliness is evaluated by the DIN 1946-4: 2008-12 [2] and is based on the measurement of particles in the operating theatre. Other countries i.eSweden. focus on the biological contamination and use microbiological methods for the assessment and surveillance of the operating room ventilation (SIS-TS 39: 2015) [3].
Verification of on-demand medical device networks
Authors: Dingler Max , Dietz Christian , Lüth Tim
Published: September 2017

We propose a novel method for the automated formal analysis of on-demand medical device networks communicating via an open communication protocol. The resulting toolbox aims at assisting operators of cross-vendor medical device networks in the complex process of conformity assessment. The method is based on the notion of timed, extended finite automata and employs existent TCTL model checking techniques by use of MATLAB and UPPAAL. We evaluate our methodology in a real-life application similar to a user experience published by the U.S. Food and Drug Admninistration. The method revealed a flaw in the connector design for the Surgical Real Time Bus of the OR.Net project.
Information management for enabling systems medicine
Authors: Ganzinger Matthias , Knaup Petra
Published: September 2017

Systems medicine is a data-oriented approach in research and clinical practice to support study and treatment of complex diseases. It relies on well-defined information management processes providing comprehensive and up to date information as basis for electronic decision support. The authors suggest a three-layer information technology (IT) architecture for systems medicine and a cyclic data management approach including a knowledge base that is dynamically updated by extract, transform, and load (ETL) procedures. Decision support is suggested as case-based and rule-based components. Results are presented via a user interface to acknowledging clinical requirements in terms of time and complexity. The systems medicine application was implemented as a prototype.
Distinguishability and identifiability of products with small bore connectors according to ISO DIS 80369 series: risk analysis and summative evaluation
Authors: Ibenthal Elisabeth , Hölscher Uvo M. , Backhaus Claus
Published: September 2017

The ISO 80369-series replace Luer-connectors in five application areas to fight misconnections. Although the standard avoids the mechanical problem of misconnections, the design of products and packages remains arbitrary. So, packages and products with same functions but different connectors could have similar designs and hence could be mixed-up.

To ascertain whether standardization is needed for marking non-distinguishable products and packages, a risk management and usability engineering process were carried out, partly.

The ensuing risk analysis created nine unacceptable risks relating to non-distinguishable packages and lookalike-products. Based on this, risk control (standardization) is needed for lookalikes with the following proposed measures: colour allocation and haptic textures for products, colour allocation and symbols for packages. Furthermore, three scenarios were planned for summative evaluation.

An additional consideration of the efficiency of proposed combinations of measures and products relying on measures would be helpful.
Impact of aortic root geometry on hydrody-namic performance of transcatheter aortic valve prostheses
Authors: Kaule Sebastian , Pfensig Sylvia , Ott Robert , Siewert Stefan , Grabow Niels , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Stiehm Michael
Published: September 2017

Assessment of hydrodynamic performance of transcatheter aortic valve prostheses (TAVP) in vitro is es-sentially in the fields of development and approval of novel implants. For the prediction of clinical performance, in vitro testing of TAVP allows for benchmarking of different devic-es, likewise. In addition to the implant itself, also the testing environment has a crucial influence on leaflet dynamics and quantitative test results like effective orifice area (EOA) or aortic regurgitation.

Therefore, within the current study we developed simpli-fied physiological and pathophysiological vessel models of the aortic root as a tool for in vitro hydrodynamic testing of TAVP in idealized and worst case conditions. We used 3D printing and silicone cast molding for manufacturing of aortic root models with variable degree of stenosis. Design of aortic roots with normal, mild and severe stenosis was developed according to Reul et al. For manufacturing of tripartite cast-ing molds, a 3D printer was used. Both outer mold parts and the mold core were manufactured from polylactide filament and water soluble polyvinylalcohol filament, respectively. In vitro hydrodynamic performance testing of an exemplary commercially available TAVP implanted in different aortic root models was conducted according to DIN EN ISO 5840-3:2013, using a pulse duplicator system. Manufactured aortic root models were highly transparent, dimensionally stable and therefore suitable for hydrodynamic testing of TAVP. Both, EOA and regurgitant fraction in-creased with increasing degree of stenosis from 1.6 ± 0.1 cm2 to 1.8 ± 0.1 cm2 and 8.6 ± 6.5% to 20.2 ± 4.2% (n = 30 cy-cles), respectively.

We successfully developed a testing environment ena-bling sophisticated evaluation of hydrodynamic performance of TAVR in pathophysiological worst case conditions.
Tissue-specific transformation model for CT-images
Authors: Bartelheimer Kathrin , Teske Hendrik , Bendl Rolf , Giske Kristina
Published: September 2017

During radiotherapy, posture changes and volume changing deformations like growing or shrinking tissue result in anatomical deformations. The basis for investigating the impact of such deformations on dose uncertainties, are model-based tools for deformation analysis. In this context, we propose a transformation model based on the information of CT-images, which allows an on-the-fly calculation of voxel volumes. Our model is based on the concept of the chainmail algorithm and describes deformation on voxel-level. With an exemplary input of a set of landmark pairs, generated by a kinematic head-and-neck skeleton model, CT-images (512x512x126 voxel) can be deformed with an on-the-fly volume calculation in less than 70s. The volume calculation delivers insight into model-characteristic volume changes and is a prerequisite for implementing tissue growth and shrinkage.
Experimental validation of a bias in apparent exchange rate measurement
Authors: Ulloa Patricia , Methot Vincent , Koch Martin A.
Published: September 2017

Double diffusion encoding (DDE) MRI is a technique in which two diffusion weighted periods are applied between excitation and acquisition. This allows to acquire structural information (as pore size and shape) and molecular exchange between compartments, in terms of apparent exchange rate (AXR). However, it has not been well investigated yet whether the diffusion restriction underlying DDE size estimation may compromise AXR results.

Numerical simulations for impermeable spheres have shown that in case of small pores (diameter < 10 μm) the restriction effect may be neglected. Yet, for larger pores, the restriction effect can be relevant and needs to be considered in the analysis of experiments.

Here, we present experiments performed on a 3 T clinical MRI system using a water-in-oil emulsion in which no exchange between compartments is expected. The results show that a nonzero apparent exchange rate may be estimated in a sample with impermeable pores. This shows that, as predicted in simulations, the restriction effect affects the AXR results. The use of perpendicular diffusion gradients may be a solution for this problem in isotropic samples.
Comparing human and algorithmic tracking of subviral particles in fluorescence microscopic image sequences
Authors: Müller Dennis , Rausch Andreas , Dolnik Olga , Schanze Thomas
Published: September 2017

Tracking of subviral particles with automated methods enables the analysis of intracellular processes exhibited by viruses. A linear assignment problem solver and a Kalman-filter have been added to an existing particle tracking algorithm. First results produced with simulated image sequences showed that the improved algorithm is able to improve tracking results by closing gaps in the particle’s trajectories. Here we report on the evaluation of the LAP-Kalman algorithm using real fluorescence-microscopic images. The results from the original and improved algorithm have been compared to the results of manual tracking. Evaluation results indicate that the improved algorithm is capable to reconstruct missing parts of particle tracks in difficult conditions. However, the evaluation of the algorithms and the manual tracking is a complex task because of the low image contrast and high object density with intersecting tracks in the live-cell images.
Drowsiness discrimination in an overnight driving simulation on the basis of RR and QT intervals
Authors: Heinze Christian , Hütterer Constantin , Schnupp Thomas , Lenis Gustavo , Golz Martin
Published: September 2017

We examined if ECG-based features are discrimi-native towards drowsiness. Twenty-five volunteers (19–32 years) completed 7×40 minutes of monotonous overnight driving simulation, designed to induce drowsiness. ECG (512 s-1) was recorded continuously; subjective ratings of drowsiness on the Karolinska sleepiness scale (KSS) were polled every five minutes. ECG recordings were divided into 5-min segments, each associated with the mean of one self- and two observer-KSS ratings. Those mean KSS values were binarized to obtain two classes not drowsy and drowsy. The Q-, R- and T-waves in the recordings were detected; R-peak positions were manually reviewed; the Q- and T-detection method was tested against the manual annotations of Physio-net’s QT database. Power spectral densities of RR intervals (RR-PSD) and quantiles of the empirical distribution of heart-rate corrected QTc intervals were estimated. Support-vector machines and random-holdout cross-validation were used for the estimation of the classification error. Using either RR-PSD or QTc features yielded mean test errors of 79.3 ± 0.3 % and 82.7 ± 0.5 %, respectively. Merging RR and QTc features improved the accuracy to 88.3 ± 0.2 %. QTc intervals of the class drowsy were generally prolonged com-pared to not drowsy. Our findings indicate that the inclusion of QT intervals contribute to the discrimination of driver sleepiness.
Circadian rhythmicity of cognitive performance
Authors: Schnupp Thomas , Heinze Christian , Golz Martin
Published: September 2017

It was investigated whether cognitive performance shows a circadian rhythm during a 50 h-long forced desynchrony sleep-wake-schedule. We asked whether it would be possible to estimate the circadian period of cognitive performance under such circumstances and how strong it correlates to subjective sleepiness rating as well as body temperature.

Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Bowles-Langley test (BLT), which estimates cognitive performance by capturing reaction time and counting errors in a 2-choice visual search task.

Power spectral densities (PSD) were estimated by the Lomb-Scargle periodogram [1]. The circadian period τc
was estimated from peak PSD. PSD of BLT scores showed lowest, yet distinct, circadian amplitude.

In addition to the circadian period estimation we analyzed the correlation of the acquired variables against each other. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were significant but varied strongly at a commonly low level.

Despite the obstacle of a plethora of influencing factors [2] BLT scores are sensitive to the circadian rhythm and provide correct estimates of τc
compared to rectal body temperature (RBT) as reference. Subjective measures failed estimating τc
.
Deriving kinematic quantities from accelerometer readings for assessment of functional upper limb motions
Authors: Laidig Daniel , Seel Thomas
Published: September 2017

Wearable accelerometers are lightweight, affordable, and allow for even smaller form factors than 9D inertial measurement units. They are therefore a promising tool for assessing the quality of movement of patients during daily life activities. While generic signal features such as signal power and frequency content are widely used, the derivation of kinematic (angular and spatial) quantities remains a challenge. We consider a chain of body segments, such as the arm, equipped with 3D accelerometers and propose a method for calculation of the inclination and relative height of the distal segment. For validation of the method against an optical motion capture system, we consider a setup with accelerometers on the forearm and the upper arm of a subject, who performs a sequence of drinking motions and pick-and-place motions. We obtain a root-mean-square deviation of about 2.5 cm for the wrist height relative to the shoulder and about 6° for the inclination angles of the forearm. We conclude that the proposed method yields measurements of kinematic quantities that are accurate enough for classification of functional versus non-functional motions or well-performed motions versus incomplete motions.