bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Felsőoktatási tehetségmenedzsment gyakorlatok összehasonlító
vizsgálata
Authors: Olvasztó Zsófia , Dajnoki Krisztina
Published: December 2024

A tehetségmenedzsment jelentősége nemcsak az üzleti
szférában, hanem az egyetemek számára is kiemelt jelentőséggel bír
a versengő felsőoktatási környezetben. A felsőoktatásban jelenlévő
tehetséggondozás meghatározó szerepet tölt be az intézmények
életében, hiszen a tudományos munkához és később az akadémiai
szféra utánpótlásához is hozzájárulhatnak a felfedezett
tehetségek. A tanulmány célja, hogy ismertesse a
tehetségmenedzsment jelentőségét a felsőoktatásban, valamint
feltárja a magyarországi egyetemeken alkalmazott tehetséggondozási
programok sajátosságait. A HVG minden évben különböző hallgatói és
oktatói szempontok alapján összeállítja a magyarországi
felsőoktatási intézmények rangsorát. A tanulmányban a HVG Diploma
2024-es összesített intézményi rangsorának első öt helyén szereplő
egyetem tehetséggondozási gyakorlatát elemeztük az intézmények
weboldalain szereplő információk alapján. Megállapítható, hogy a
vizsgált intézmények mindegyikén megjelenik a tudományos diákköri
tevékenység és a szakkollégiumok, valamint két egyetem esetében
önálló tehetséggondozó program is működik. Az öt egyetemet
vizsgálva több jó gyakorlat is beazonosítható. Ilyenek például a
tehetséggondozás működéséhez kapcsolódó szervezetek működése,
szakkollégiumok együttműködését segítő közösség, ösztöndíjak,
mentor programok. Ugyanakkor fejlesztendő területek is
azonosíthatók, mint például az önálló TDK oldal hiánya miatt a TDK
információk nehezebb elérése, illetve a tehetséggondozás formáinak
elérése az egyetem fő weboldaláról korlátozott.
ANDARILHAGENS PELA EDUCAÇÃO ESTÉTICO-AMBIENTAL
Authors: Müller de Andrade Danielle , Da Rosa Louzada da Silva Patricia , Cardoso Velasques Nathalia
Published: December 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar os resultados do Projeto de Extensão “A boniteza de andarilhar pela Lagoa dos Patos”, que teve como centralidade o desenvolvimento da Educação Estético-Ambiental por meio da realização de trilhas interpretativas. Desenvolvido pelo Instituto Federal Sul-rio-grandense – Campus Pelotas – Visconde da Graça, em parceria com a Escola Municipal de Ensino Fundamental Luiz Augusto Assumpção, na cidade de Pelotas (RS), o Projeto buscou estimular reflexões estético-ambientais junto a estudantes da referida escola, com vistas à identificação das problemáticas socioambientais locais e à construção de alternativas para sua superação. Participaram do Projeto estudantes do 6º e 7º anos do Ensino Fundamental. As atividades realizadas incluíram encontro formativo, trilha interpretativa pela margem da Lagoa dos Patos, experimentação de trilhas virtuais com utilização de óculos 3D, visitação a ateliê de artesanato local e corrida de orientação. Os dados foram produzidos a partir de anotações feitas na roda de conversa de avaliação e encerramento do Projeto, quando os/as estudantes, após observarem fotografias registradas durante a atividade da trilha pela margem da Lagoa dos Patos, debateram sobre as imagens observadas. A análise foi realizada por meio da Análise Textual Discursiva. Dentre os resultados, destacam-se a potencialidade da realização de trilhas interpretativas para estímulo dos sentidos humanos; promoção de reflexões estético-ambientais; sensibilização dos/as estudantes para a resolução das problemáticas socioambientais identificadas; e formação mais integral dos sujeitos.
CORPOREIDADE E SENSIBILIZAÇÃO ECOLÓGICA:
Authors: Guimarães de Paula Marcos Vinícius , Pato Claudia
Published: December 2024

o objetivo deste trabalho consiste em apresentar um estudo de revisão sistemática para analisar como a corporeidade tem sido problematizada no contexto da Educação Ambiental, envolvendo os valores ecológicos e a conectividade com a natureza de crianças e adolescentes. O presente estudo foi realizado com base no protocolo de Schiavon (2015), sendo que os principais resultados foram: as pesquisas em nível de mestrado e doutorado, assim como as encontradas nos artigos, seguiram, em sua maioria, a abordagem qualitativa de método, indicando a necessidade de mais estudos multimétodos na área da Educação Ambiental; nenhuma dissertação, nenhuma tese e nenhum artigo tematizou os valores ecológicos; não foram verificadas investigações que apresentaram a corporeidade de forma ampla, com vivências diversas; poucos foram os artigos científicos que trataram a temática em discussão. Ante o exposto, esses achados indicam a necessidade de novas pesquisas, a fim de preencher as lacunas da área porque tanto os valores ecológicos, quanto a conectividade com a natureza são aspectos fundamentais para o cuidado e a proteção ambiental. Além disso, são essenciais para uma educação sensível e transformadora.
EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA E INCLUSÃO:
Authors: Lopes Siqueira Salles Flaviane , Zanol de Araújo Fabiana , Carvalho Silva de Sá Maria das Graças
Published: December 2024

Desenvolvido a partir das experiências produzidas em um projeto de Extensão Universitária denominado de Práticas Pedagógicas de Educação Física Adaptadas para Pessoas com Deficiência, vinculado ao Laboratório de Educação Física Adaptada da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo-LAEFA/CEFD/UFES, tem como objetivo problematizar a potência dos processos formativos e permanentes de professores/as, por meio da escuta sensível, sustentada pela perspectiva humanizada, a partir das ações que ocorrem no projeto. A pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, exploratória e descritiva, do tipo estudo de caso, revela momentos de planejamento pedagógico e problematizações emergentes/fundantes constituídas pela escuta sensível. O caminho metodológico percorrido, possibilita na descrição das ações, captar significados e analisar interações, sem desvinculá-los do contexto em que se manifestam. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foram compostos por uma coordenadora (professora doutora); uma professora graduada em Educação Física, quatro bolsistas em processo de formação, oriundos do curso de Graduação em Educação Física; quatro estagiários/as, também da Graduação em Educação Física; dois mestrandos/as e três doutorandas, que sistematizavam o planejamento coletivamente nas reuniões. Concluímos que a formação permanente, balizados por princípios humanizadores, democráticos, críticos, éticos, estéticos e amorosos, fomenta o protagonismo dos envolvidos, favorecendo, assim, à promoção de práticas pedagógicas inclusivas.
Partitioning of removal of microplastics and other anthropogenic particles among influent, biosolids and final effluent in a tertiary wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Jackson Paige V. , Rogers Sean M. , Jackson Leland J.
Published: December 2024

Influent, final effluent, biosolids, ultrafiltration membrane module inflow and outflow samples were collected in a tertiary wastewater treatment plant to enumerate and categorize anthropogenic particles, including microplastics in the 250 µm - 5 mm size fraction. Samples were digested with 50% hydrogen peroxide, filtered, and examined via microscopy at 40-50x magnification. Most (99%) anthropogenic particles were present in biosolids compared to final effluent (<1%), with fibres numerically dominating influent and final effluent, and fragments dominating biosolids and ultrafiltration inflow and outflow. Assessment of ultrafiltration (pore size = 0.02 µm) inflow and outflow before and after membrane deep cleaning and repair revealed high variability in source abundance and a general, yet non-significant reduction in particle counts in module permeate over 20 weeks. Removal techniques require assessment to explore effective options to mitigate the potential impacts, particularly to freshwater environments, of anthropogenic microparticle release. Our data reveal the utility of quantification and removal options for anthropogenic particles in wastewater treatment plants as they are conduits between municipal and industrial wastewater sources and freshwater and terrestrial receiving environments.
Inland fisheries research and management for the benefit of all
Authors: Cooke Steven J.
Published: December 2024

Professor William (Bill) W. Taylor from Michigan State University transformed modern day inland fisheries research and management by embracing a more holistic science reflecting his systems level thinking. Moreover, he recognized that fisheries science was much more than biology and created opportunities to combine natural and social sciences in meaningful and effective ways. Rather than working just in his back yard (the Laurentian Great Lakes of North America), Professor Taylor extended his reach in his quest to achieve sustainable and responsible inland fisheries around the globe. He recognized he could not do it alone and engaged in thoughtful and purposeful efforts (to engage trainees to ensure that the next generation was prepared) and fisheries professionals from around the globe (to build capacity and ensure agency over management of resources in their home regions). In this paper I reflect on lessons that I have learned from my friend, colleague and mentor Professor Bill Taylor about how to engage in inland fisheries research and management for the benefit of all.
Preparação para mobilidade acadêmica
Authors: Medeiros Hyanna , Macedo Anderson Lucas da Silva
Published: December 2024

Na Universidade de São Paulo (USP), a língua francesa ocupa lugar expressivo no processo de internacionalização em função dos numerosos acordos com Instituições de Ensino Superior (IES) francesas e do efetivo discente enviado para a França (Traldi; Medeiros; Martins, 2023). É nesse contexto que este trabalho se insere, focalizando a problemática da compreensão oral (CO) em Francês para Objetivo Universitário (FOU) na área da Engenharia, com vistas à preparação de estudantes da Escola Politécnica da USP para a integração em IES francesas. O referencial teórico se fundamenta em estudos concernentes à internacionalização (Knight, 2003; 2005; 2020; De Wit, 2013), ao plurilinguismo e translinguagem (Beacco; Byram, 2003; Garcia; Wei, 2014), à compreensão oral (Lhote, 1995; Cornaire, 1998; Rost, 2011; Oxford, 1993; Field, 2008, Vandergrift; Goh, 2009) e ao FOU (Mangiante; Parpette, 2011). Buscou-se (i) identificar práticas empregadas pelos estudantes em preparação para mobilidade quando da compreensão a partir da recepção auditiva e (ii) analisar os efeitos da sensibilização ao uso de recursos facilitadores da compreensão, em especial com relação ao desenvolvimento do comportamento de escuta por meio de práticas translíngues. As contribuições deste trabalho estão associadas à preparação linguística e sociocultural para mobilidade, demonstrando a pertinência de se considerar práticas didático-metodológicas concernentes ao ensino-aprendizagem da CO na elaboração de cursos FOU, bem como ao potencial da conscientização de estratégias com vistas à (re)construção e transposição do comportamento de escuta em língua estrangeira, fomentando a autonomia do sujeito ouvinte frente a situações de recepção auditiva.
Enhancing Islamic Banking through Accounting and Taxation Harmonization: A Comparative Study of Indonesia and Malaysia
Authors: Rahayu Siti Kurnia , Komala Adeh Ratna , Yusuf Sharifah Norzehan BT Syed
Published: December 2024

The dynamics of Islamic banking growth offer unique insights into the opportunities and challenges in accounting and tax harmonization. Conducted in 2023, this qualitative study explores barriers and solutions to accounting and tax integration within the Islamic banking sector through case studies of leading Islamic banks in Indonesia and Malaysia. Through in-depth analysis based on expert interviews and regulatory document review, this research identifies divergences in accounting principles, regulatory infrastructure, and human resource readiness as primary constraints. A proposed theoretical framework, integrating Maqasid Sharia principles with good governance, aims to create an accountable, sustainable, and integrated accounting and taxation system. Its implementation is expected to enhance transparency and accountability of Islamic banks, thereby strengthening the broader Islamic economy in both nations, with long-term improvements in operational efficiency and fiscal compliance.
Features and Limitations of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) in Obtaining Textile-like Structures
Authors: Diak Viktorija , Diak Andrii
Published: December 2024

In contemporary production processes and customisation, 3D printing has emerged as a prominent method for prototyping. It offers flexibility to create objects of diverse shapes, structures, sizes and materials. However, integrating this technology into the textile industry to achieve textile-like structures poses challenges. The fused deposition modelling (FDM) method is currently the closest approach to prototyping such structures due to its ability to extrude monofilaments resembling traditional threads. Regrettably, attempts to produce structures with properties akin to textiles, including flexibility, durability, breathability, lightness and fineness, have been unsuccessful due to various limitations inherent in the technical setups of 3D printers. This study analyses the key features of FDM printing that determine the feasibility of achieving authentic textile-like printed structures while clarifying the underlying logic behind their future purpose. Our aim was to assist future researchers in achieving the production of thin 3D-printed fibres (diameter ~0.1 mm) regardless of structure type.
Desafíos penales de la inmigración irregular en España: falsedad en documento público
Authors: Gangi Guillen Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

España se encuentra adherida a las bases humanistas propias de la Unión Europea: se caracteriza por un profundo sentido humanista que traspasa fronteras y promueve el reconocimiento de las debidas garantías, incluso fuera de aquellas. La investigación analiza las implicaciones de la inmigración irregular en la España humanista, la contrasta con su ordenamiento jurídico y describe los retos a los que se enfrenta desde el derecho penal. Se concluye que el derecho penal español se ve limitado para la imposición de penas privativas de libertad por la comisión de delitos por parte de migrantes con estatus jurídico irregular, lo que deviene generalmente en la apertura de expedientes administrativos sancionatorios y culmina en multas o acciones de deportación, con cierta prudencia política del Gobierno central. Esta limitación en la imposición de penas tiene repercusiones directas en la seguridad jurídica de la población y promueve la inmigración irregular, efectos contrarios al moderno concepto de la seguridad del Estado desde cualquier enfoque multidimensional y al sentimiento humanista de la Unión Europea.
Gry interdyskursywne w rosyjskojęzycznych parodiach politycznych
Authors: Jankowicz Agata
Published: December 2024

Political parodies transcend the prevailing social hierarchies, opening the field for polemics with government representatives. They also provide a space for the contamination of two or more distant discourses. In their texts, parodists refer to the rules of creating texts and utterances of political discourse, while modifying their selected elements by means of interdiscursive games. The purpose of the study is to define the category of the interdiscursive game and to analyze its strategies based on the example of contemporary Russian parodies on political issues published on YouTube. The study examines interdiscursive games grouped according to the following classification: genre convention games, intertextual games, games at the level of different linguistic means, structural games involving extralinguistic signs. As a result of the analysis, parodic interdiscursive games were divided into two categories: first-degree references and further references. The references of the first degree consist in transferring the main imitated discourse to the discourse of the comic. The second type of games concerns parodic references to other discourses that are introduced to the main imitated discourse. Interdiscursive games of both types help to discover the mechanisms that shape the political discourse. Thus, parody, using borrowed schemes, reveals those meanings which were not expressed explicitly in the original texts and utterances.
Influence of wearing a face mask on speech properties
Authors: Aharonson Vered , Carlson Craig S. , Postema Michiel , Putter-Katz Hanna , Tetin Schneider Simona
Published: December 2024

The increased use of face masks for infection prevention has resulted in difficulties in speech understanding. Thus, there is a need for tuning of acoustic plans in hearing aids to compensate for the loss of acoustic information due to the mask.Previous studies focused on isolated vowel sounds. Our study measured the effect of surgery masks on the acoustic attributes of vowels and compared the effect of isolated to co-articulated vowels. The voices of 45 male speakers were recorded whilst pronouncing isolated vowels and vowels within the co-articulation in a sentence. All recordings were repeated with the participants wearing a surgical mask. Acoustic factors of length, intensity, pitch, formants, shimmer, and jitter were extracted from the vowels in all the different conditions. The differences between masked and unmasked acoustics in the co-articulated vowels were found to be smaller than the isolated vowels acoustic features. These preliminary results improve the quantification of the effect of hearing a face mask in the real-life production of speech.
Novelle approach to simulating spinal cord stimulation during tSCS using CT images and FEM
Authors: Árnason Jón Andri , Guðmundsdóttir-Korchai Ragnhildur , Afework Tesfahunegn Yonatan , Helgason Þórður
Published: December 2024

Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) offers non-invasive relief for chronic pain and improves motor function in spinal cord injured (SCI) patients. However, its mechanisms are not currently fully understood, and patientspecific factors, such as Body mass index (BMI) and age, complicate treatments. This paper aims to understand tSCS better by developing a novel Finite Element Model (FEM) of the human body using CT scans. Three subjects (sex, male, female, male. Age: 26, 27, 64. BMI: 38.9, 24.1, 28.4) underwent a CT scan, performed on a Cannon Aquilion Prime (Slice thickness [mm]: 0.8, Voxel size [mm3]: 0.564, 0.328, 0.527), which imaged the trunk of the body, from top of the abdomen to the bottom of the pelvis. The images were then used in Materialize Mimics Research 21.0 to create 3D images of individual organs, skin, fat, muscles, skeleton, and spinal cord. After pre-processing in Autodesk Meshmixer, the models were converted into solid CAD objects in Ansys SpaceClaim R2021 and combined into a single abdominal model. Ansys Maxwell R2021 was then used for simulations. Five different two-electrode configurations were tested in the prototype phase with a simplified model setup. The positive electrodes were placed over the (Thoracic) T10, T12, (Lumbar) L2 and L4 vertebrae sequentially, with the negative electrode over (Sacral) S2. The simulations took on average 47.4 hours. A marked decline in electrical current penetration depth was observed as the electrodes were placed closer together which was consistent with known current distribution patterns. A preliminary validation test was also performed using a lamb’s thigh. Two electrodes were placed a known distance apart and a stimulation was given, needle electrodes were then inserted in a grid-like pattern to obtain voltage values. The setup was recreated and simulated in Ansys Maxwell. The resulting average percent difference was 44.93 ± 33.3 % (5Vpp Square wave) and 35.02 ± 23.38 % (5V DC). In both instances, the highest difference was at the edges of the electrodes and the lowest difference in the midpoint between electrodes. Later versions of FEM models incorporated more organs and had improved on previous mesh generation flaws, but encountered new mesh generation errors which could not be rectified before the conclusion of the master’s project. Despite complications, this project has provided a pipeline for creating similar models and shown their usability. Future work will involve overcoming the current mesh generation errors, reducing calculation time, and performing a thorough validation test.
Needs-based selection and prioritization of Technologies to Aid and Assist Nursing Staff in Inpatient Care of Elderly
Authors: Arndt Marie , Simon Martina , Schmitt-Rüth Stephanie , Schoeneich Stephan , Landgraf Kati , Jantsch Holger , Baumgärtner Viola , Scharfenberg Elisabeth , Saßen Sascha , Wittenberg Thomas
Published: December 2024

Inpatient care facilities globally are facing a critical shortage of staff, posing significant challenges to resident well-being and care quality. This issue is further compounded by demographic shifts and increasing care demands. While technological advancements offer promise in alleviating nursing staff burdens, their effective integration remains complex, with nursing staff acceptance playing a pivotal role. This paper describes a systematic approach designed to streamline the process of identifying, categorizing, and prioritizing suitable technologies in inpatient care settings. By taking into account the specific needs and requirements of nursing staff, this approach, validated through a comprehensive case study, aims to facilitate targeted technology adoption, thereby contributing to the successful digitization of this occupational domain.
Assessment of EEG-PPG Cross Frequency Coherence under Evoked Emotional Arousal
Authors: Banik Sourabh , Kumar Himanshu , Ganapathy Nagarajan , Swaminathan Ramakrishnan
Published: December 2024

Emotion influences the daily activity of human life. The complex interaction between the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) contributes to emotional experiences. Various studies have investigated this interaction during sleep, meditation, deception, and cognition. However, research focusing exclusively on emotion-related interactions is limited. In this work an attempt has been made to assess the CNS and PNS interaction by analyzing Electroencephalogram (EEG) and Photoplethysmogram (PPG) signals during emotional arousal induced by audio-visual stimuli obtained from the DEAP database . EEG signals are divided into four frequency bands: theta (4-7 Hz), alpha (8-12 Hz), beta (13-30 Hz), and gamma (30-45 Hz). The envelope of EEG and PPG signals is then computed to determine cross-frequency coherence (CFC). TheWilcoxon Rank-sum test is employed to assess the statistical significance of CFC in low (LA) vs. higharousal( HA) for various electrodes. Results indicate that CFC can discriminate the LA vs HA. Higher CFC is found in HA compared to LA for the beta and gamma bands, while the opposite trend is observed in the theta and alpha bands. The FP1, FC1, and T7 are found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05) in differentiating LA with HA. Therefore, this study offers insights into CNS-PNS interaction during emotional arousal.
Mechanical stimulation and monitoring of artificial collagen membranes for Organ-on Chip applications
Authors: Behrens Stephan , Golde Jonas , Schöps Yvo , Polk Christoph , Seidel Gloria , Goerke Felix , Sonntag Frank , Schmieder Florian
Published: December 2024

A novel tool to create artificial, cell-based model systems of biological barriers for preclinical drug testing and basic research are artificial collagen membranes (ACM). They closely reflect in vivo basement membrane properties like permeability and stiffness. Besides, they act as initial artificial basement membrane during cell culture. Nevertheless, up to now only complex protocols are published to create such artificial membranes. Also the deflection relies on very low pressure to elongate ACM, if in vivo like deflection - as in the lung mucosa - shall be emulated. Moreover, online monitoring of the deflection of ACM is a crucial part, hence collagen is non-transparent in the visual spectrum, reducing the applicability of standard microscopy. Here we show an easy protocol to generate ACM using commercially available NetwellTM inserts and collagen gel based coating. To address above mentioned issues in membrane deflection we developed a novel pneumatic actuation device (MPSstimulus) as well as a 3D-printed lid and a holder for 6-well plates as an easy to use microphysiological system (MPS) to stimulate ACM. Furthermore, we characterized the 3D membrane structure and dynamic elongation using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Based on our preliminary results, OCT is a promising technique for high-resolution inspection and elastographic analysis of ACM and adherent cell layers using the novel pneumatic actuation device.
Surface Roughness-Dependent Corrosion: Implications for Cochlear Implant Reliability
Authors: Blank Tatiana , Behrens Sabine , Klose Christian , Jürgen Maier Hans
Published: December 2024

The corrosion behavior of platinum electrodes in cochlear implant (CI) systems is a critical factor affecting their long-term functionality. This study investigated the influence of the surface roughness of the platinum electrodes on their corrosion behavior. The results of in vitro experiments indicate that higher surface roughness tends to accelerate corrosion by providing numerous initiation sites. Although the electrochemical measurements of platinum electrodes with different surface roughnesses showed only slight differences in terms of shifts in potentials and higher corrosion current densities, data from the literature suggests an enhanced charge capacity with rougher surfaces. These findings contribute to an understanding of the failure mechanisms of CIs and can ultimately help to improve the design and durability of CI systems.
Hydrophobic Surface Coatings for the Functionalization of Stimulation Electrodes
Authors: Bode Tom , Drexler Jan , Müller Marc , Paasche Gerrit , Glasmacher Birgit
Published: December 2024

This study examines hydrophobic surface coatings for stimulation electrodes to mitigate foreign body reactions and encapsulation. Electrospinning of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) resin is explored to create fiber structures for electrode coatings. PDMS resin is succesfully processed into fiber mats. Electrospun PDMS fiber structures showed an increased water contact angle (124 °/125 °) in comparison to a cast flat film (102 °). To further increase hydrophobicity, the fabrication process of Slippery Liquid-Infused Porous Surface (SLIPS) systems with a polyurethane substrate and different natural lubricants is assessed with promising results in an increase in water contact angles up to 11°. The findings suggest the potential of these surface coatings to enhance the performance and safety of stimulation electrodes.
Placement and Orientation of an Accelerometer Sensor Attached to the Human Incus in Hearing Implants
Authors: Burovikhin Dmitrii , Kitsopoulos Panagiota , Lauxmann Michael , Grosh Karl
Published: December 2024

In this study a method for determining the best placement and optimal orientation of the implantable piezoelectric accelerometer attached to the short process of the incus is developed. The accelerometer is intended to be used as a replacement for an external microphone to enable totally implantable cochlea implants or as part of a totally implantable hearing aid. The best location is determined to be near the incudomalleolar joint. The optimal orientation of the sensor at the determined location is obtained using two criteria - maximum voltage sum and minimum loudness level sum. The method described in the paper can be used to further optimize the design and the performance of the accelerometer.
Muscle twitch thresholds depending on the direction of current stimulation
Authors: Dölker Eva-Maria , Haueisen Jens
Published: December 2024

Acoustic or visual warning signals for workers in hazardous situations might fail under loud and/or lowvisibility work situations. A warning system that uses electrocutaneous stimulation can overcome this problem. This study aimed to compare vertical, diagonal, and horizontal current stimulation directions at the upper arm to select the one with the lowest amount of muscle twitching. Fourteen electrodes were attached in two rows to the upper right arm of 15 participants. The stimulation was conducted with bi-phasic rectangular pulses of 150 μs and amplitudes of up to 25 mA. Muscle twitch thresholds have been determined and a circumferential stimulation signal was presented as warning pattern for the three current stimulation directions and evaluated regarding alertness, discomfort, and urgency. For single stimulation pulses, muscle twitches occurred slightly less often at the horizontal stimulation direction compared to the other two and muscle twitch thresholds showed no systematic differences. For the warning patterns, no considerable differences were found regarding the evaluation of alertness, discomfort, and urgency and no differences were found for muscle twitching. In conclusion, all orientations seem suitable for warning pattern presentation and none of the directions has a clear advantage in reducing muscle twitch.
An Educational App for the Selection of Blood Glucose Meters: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Doniec Rafał , Krzepina Tymoteusz , Siecinski Szymon , Tausif Irshad Muhammad , Grzegorzek Marcin
Published: December 2024

In this cross-sectional study, we examined the abundance of blood glucose meter (BGM) models in the Polish and German medical device markets and their technical specifications. Information from a medical equipment wholesaler’s database was gathered for comparison of BGMs from five manufacturers: Roche Diabetes Care, LifeScan Inc, Abbott, Ascensia Diabetes Care, and Genexo, and for model Glucomaxx BT TaiDoc Technology Corporation. Key parameters such as blood sample size, measurement time, memory capacity, and measurement range were considered. An application was developed to aid in BGM selection for people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The results showed a high correlation with laboratory measurements and similarity in key functionalities between the models. The application, tested on 30 individuals aged 18 to 79 years, demonstrated stability, speed, and a user-friendly interface, facilitating efficient data processing and generating recommendations.
Proof of Concept for measuring vital signs using UWB transceivers
Authors: Egemann Noel , Kitzig Andreas , Naroska Edwin
Published: December 2024

This paper shows the possibility of using Ultrawideband (UWB) DW3000 transceivers for noninvasive vital sign monitoring via a transversal propagation method. The transceivers can provide a cheaper, more flexible, and easierto- apply measurement of vital signs than traditional electrocardiogram (ECG) devices. This will not substitute the common medical use but instead can make vital sign monitoring more accessible in other scenarios. Potential applications beyond clinical settings, like measuring the vital signs of a car driver, can be achieved. The primary focus of this study is the possibility of utilizing inexpensive UWB transceivers for ballistocardiography (BCG) measurements. The vital signs are measured on a small focus group to verify the results on a larger spectrum. A photoplethysmogram (PPG) device is used for reference measurement. The results show a great accuracy of 3 breaths per minute for respiration rate measurement. The heartbeat measurement shows an error mostly within 3 bpm due to the resolution of the proposed setup. Methods for further verification of the results, together with increasing the accuracy and resolution of the setup are proposed.
Noise reduction in non-invasive brain-computer interfaces for robot control
Authors: Glaessner Janine , Meyer Dagmar , Schilling Meinhard
Published: December 2024

To employ a brain-computer interface to control an assistance robot could help disabled people to achieve a minimum degree of autonomy and reduce their dependence on caregivers for simple tasks. In this project, we use a textile, capacitive brain computer interface (BCI) to control an assistant robot. Our BCI is based on Steady State Visual Evoked Potentials (SSVEP), which are a response of the brain to a periodic visual stimulus at a fixed frequency. Since the brain signals are in the microvolt range, the noise reduction of external disturbances has a high relevance. Here, we demonstrate a correlation method for detecting and eliminating phase shifts between different measurements for averaging. This method allows measurements in unshielded environment of two microvolts (uV) with an averaging factor of 100 in our non-invasive BCI set-up.
Analysis of muscle fatigue using entropybased measures from the recurrence pattern of surface electromyography signals
Authors: Hiremath Deepa S. , Sundar Banerjee Shib , Karthick P. A. , Swaminathan Ramakrishnan
Published: December 2024

Neuromuscular fatigue can be monitored using complexity domain analysis of surface electromyography (sEMG) signals. This study provides a technique to detect fatigue induced change in signal complexity using the entropic measurements of its recurrence pattern. For this purpose, fifteen participants have been recruited to perform isometric fatiguing exercise and signals are acquired from the biceps brachii muscle of the dominant hands. Thresholded recurrence plot is constructed from the non-fatigue and fatigue segments of the signal. Bidimensional dispersion entropy (DispEn2D) is calculated to quantify the textural change in the resulting recurrence plot. The results show that the present approach can distinguish between non-fatigue and fatigue states. Decrease in the DispEn2D values in the fatigue state shows there is an increase in periodic component of sEMG signal during fatiguing contraction.
Potential of magnetic shape memory alloys in medical applications
Authors: Hutter Marco , Mayer Juliane , Schäfer Max B. , Pott Peter P. , Gundelsweiler Bernd
Published: December 2024

Systems based on smart materials have become an increasing research focus in recent years, as their properties provide opportunity for higher functional integration, improved energy efficiency and completely new functionalities. Magnetic shape memory alloys (MSM) provide a promising option here. However, they have received limited attention in the field of medical engineering. This paper therefore aims to provide an introduction into the (magneto-mechanical) properties of MSM and to give an overview of existing applicationsoriented research, both in general and in medical engineering. In the reviewed literature, NiMnGa has been used in several prototypes of micro pumps for intracranial drug delivery and lab-on-a-chip systems. FePd, another MSM alloy, has aroused interest in research into temporary implants.
Evaluation of the Usage of Graph Database in a Nutrition App for Determining Potential Nutrient Inhibition
Authors: Jhonson Reynald , Fischer Patrick , Sohrabi Keywan , Groß Volker , Scholtes Michael
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the popularity of veganism has surged, prompting a growing interest in its health implications. While vegan diets offer numerous benefits, they also pose challenges due to potential deficiencies in essential nutrients and the presence of anti-nutrients in plant-based foods. This paper addresses the need for a comprehensive understanding of nutrient interactions, particularly those involving antinutrients, by creating a Knowledge Graph. Utilizing Natural Language Processing techniques, essential nutritional entities were extracted from unstructured texts, and a custom Named Entity Recognition model was implemented. These data were then used to construct a Knowledge Graph using Neo4j, a leading graph database. Despite the potential of the developed Knowledge Graph to visualize nutrient interactions, limitations persist due to the scarcity of available data on antinutrient interactions. Nonetheless, the Knowledge Graph provides a promising avenue for exploring and understanding the complexities of nutrient interactions, facilitating future research and informing dietary choices.
Assessment of Driver Stress using Multimodal wereable Signals and Self-Attention Networks
Authors: Pavan Kaveti , Ganapathy Nagarajan
Published: December 2024

Assessment of driver stress, crucial for road safety, can greatly benefit from the analysis of multimodal physiological signals. However, fusing such heterogeneous data poses significant challenges, particularly in intermediate fusion where noise can also be fused. In this study, we address this challenge by exploring a 1D convolutional neural network (CNN) with self-attention mechanisms on multimodal data. Electrocardiogram (ECG) signals (256 Hz) and respiration (RESP) signals (128 Hz) were obtained from ten subjects using textile electrodes while driving in different scenarios, namely normal driving and phone usage (calling). The obtained multimodal data is preprocessed and then applied to a self-attention mechanism (SAM) CNN (SAMcNN) to identify driver stress. Experiments are validated using Leave-one-outsubject cross validation. The proposed approach is capable of classifying driver stress. It is observed that shorter segments yield an accuracy of 64.16% compared to longer segment lengths. Thus, exploring self-attention mechanisms for multimodal signals using wearable shirts facilitates non-intrusive monitoring in real-world driving scenarios.
Influences on rPPG-Based Spatial Blood Perfusion Maps
Authors: Kobel Svenja Nicola , Wuerich Carolin , Ernst Anna Lotta , Fusshoeller Eva , Grueter Jan Niclas , Haendler Jakob , Wiede Christian , Seidl Karsten
Published: December 2024

Recent studies show the feasibility of using local remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) for non-contact blood perfusion assessment by creating spatial pulsatile blood perfusion maps. While global rPPG has been widely studied for its robustness, e.g. for non-contact measurement of heart rate, local analyses pose greater challenges in terms of noise suppression and thus reliability. In this paper, the effect of temperature and illumination changes on signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) perfusion maps is analysed. The results show the importance of consistent temperature and controlled illumination for improving SNR and ensuring reliable blood perfusion measurements using rPPG. This emphasises the need for standardised external conditions for accurate interpretation of the results and medical applicability.
In vitro biostability testing of stent cover materials
Authors: Koper Daniela , Reske Thomas , Siewert Stefan , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Kaule Sebastian
Published: December 2024

Cast polyurethane films made of an aliphatic polycarbonate-based thermoplastic polyurethane (Carbothane PC) and poly(ether urethane) (Pellethane) were manufactured and their biostability under a static strain rate was investigated in vitroin comparison to unloaded samples. The PU films were stretched to an elongation of 300% and exposed to hydrogen peroxide/cobalt chloride (H2O2/CoCl2) solution for specific periods of time (up to 63 days). Unstrained PU samples were treated in the same way for comparison. The samples were observed for surface degradation via scanning electron microscopy and the bulk erosion by measuring the weight difference. The surface roughness greatly increased in strained Pellethane with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) evidence of deep cracks and holes or ragged and stretched fractures perpendicular to the direction of stress. Carbothane showed a lower degradation compared with Pellethane under mechanical constraint.
Automatic Alignment of Three-Bracket Setup for Orthodontic Measurements
Authors: Leinthaler Ida , Gierling Hanna , Jäger Rudolf , Lapatki Bernd , Mayer Judith , Schmidt Falko , Peuscher Heiko
Published: December 2024

Orthodontic tooth movement is related to application of forces and moments to individual teeth. Experimental testing of orthodontic wires helps clinicians to exert adequately dimensioned therapeutic loads. In this work, an existing experimental setup to analyze the force delivery of orthodontic wires is augmented with an algorithm that automatically finds a neutral position in which the wire transmits as little force and torque as possible; to this end, the drives of the setup are traversed to an optimal position based on measurements. The algorithm is first tested with the help of a simulation-based software-in-the-loop framework and then implemented on the real setup. Experimental results show massive time savings compared to manual alignment.
Finite element modeling of a piezoelectric actuator coupled to the cochlear round window
Authors: Liu Houguang , Kou Yinxin , Wang Jie , Lenarz Thomas , Maier Hannes
Published: December 2024

Round window (RW) stimulation is an application of active middle ear implants. However, its clinical outcomes show a substantial degree of variability due to the mismatch of the diameter of the actuator and the RW membrane, and the surgically challenging for placing the actuator. To address this problem, we developed a new piezoelectric actuator for RW stimulation. Firstly, we specifically designed the actuator’s mechanical structure for the RW stimulation. Then, we constructed a finite element (FE) model of the piezoelectric actuator coupled with the human ear’s RW membrane. Using this coupled FE model, we studied the influence of the actuator’s supporting stiffness and the number of piezoelectric stack layers on the stimulated stapes velocity. Finally, we fabricated the piezoelectric actuator and tested its output on human cadaver temporal bones. The results show that the developed piezoelectric actuator has the advantages of a wide operating frequency range and controlled preload on the RW membrane.
Completely defined cell culture medium for advanced alveolar models
Authors: Nellinger Svenja , Heine Simon , Steeb Lothar , Kluger Petra J.
Published: December 2024

In vitro alveolar models are an important tool study respiratory physiology, investigate lung diseases, develop and test new therapies, and simulate inhalation exposure to environmental pollutants or therapeutic agents. A defined cell culture medium is essential for maintaining consistent and reliable in vitro models. In this study a defined cell culture medium for advanced alveolar models based on epithelial A549 cell line and endothelial EaHy926 cell line is developed. Cellular survival was proven by quantification of LDH release. It was shown that co-culture of the cells enhances cellular survival compared to the endothelial monoculture. The formation of a homogeneous monolayer on laminin coated membranes was confirmed by actin staining. Further, the expression of cell type specific proteins (endothelial: CD31, VE-cadherin; epithelial: ZO1 and E-cadherin) was shown. Overall, we demonstrated a completely defined cell culture medium that can be used for the setup of an advanced in vitro alveolar model for biomedical application like drug development or breath gas analysis.
Development of an in vitro three-layered skin wound healing model for pre-clinical testing
Authors: Nowakowski Sophia , Schmidt Freia F. , Kluger Petra J.
Published: December 2024

Skin wound healing involves many cell types in a stepwise process of tissue regeneration. Reepithelialization is an essential characteristic of successful healing. In tissue engineering, mimicking the complex process of injury repair in vitro is challenging and requires the development of advanced skin models. In this study, a simple and reproducible method for wounding three-layered skin models on membranes with different pore sizes (0.4, 1, 3 μm) was established. The model allows the investigation of reepithelialization processes in a more complex environment. Hemalaun-eosin (HE) and 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) staining proved sufficient removal of the epidermis directly after wounding. An increasing pore size of the culture membrane delayed the reepithelialization time. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements provided non-invasive monitoring of reepithelialization, showing increasing values 4 days after wounding for the skin models on 0.4 and 1 μm membranes but not for those on 3 μm membranes. Cytokine quantification of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 complemented the TEER results with increasing levels directly after wounding for all skin models. This skin wounding model could be used to simulate different wounding scenarios and test wound matrix materials. Furthermore, it could be adapted by adding immune cells to resemble the in vivo setup more closely.
Speech-Controlled Robot Enabling Cognitive Training and Stimulation in Dementia Prevention for Severely Disabled People
Authors: Schewior Jonas , Grefen Roman , Verde Rodolfo , Ergardt Alina , Zhao Ying , Kullmann Walter H.
Published: December 2024

The current German medical S3-guideline on dementia recommends the use of cognitive training and stimulation, e.g. through shared games, for mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia. The use of cobots, which allow direct human-robot collaboration, enables people with paralyzed upper limbs to actively participate in social activities. This research presents a novel approach through the development of a voice-controlled board game specifically tailored to the inclusion needs of people with severe disabilities. The human voice commands recorded via USB microphones are digitally filtered. Speech recognition of the control commands is performed using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) based on the VGG- 16 architecture. The robot´s activity is controlled utilizing the ROS 2 robot operating system. A portable table-based complete system with a 3D-printed Tic-Tac-Toe playing field and robot assistant for severely disabled paralyzed people has been developed. The robot control system employs a pick-and-place mechanism, seamlessly integrating with speech recognition to enhance gameplay interaction. The CNN model achieves an impressive accuracy rate of 97%, ensuring reliable speech recognition performance throughout gameplay. The targeted integration of robotic technologies and artificial intelligence opens new avenues in the prevention of mental illness, care support and inclusion of older and disabled people.
Predicting MDS-UPDRS-III score changes using mobile device biomarkers
Authors: Semkiv Khrystyna , Schreiner Simon J. , Blaser Gian E. , Baumann Christian R. , Karlen Walter
Published: December 2024

Digital biomarkers derived from mobile sensors could enable more frequent and objective monitoring of motor disorder symptoms. In this study, we examined the sensitivity of five tablet-based tests in predicting changes in the MDS-UPDRS-III scores following controlled Levodopa administration, utilizing regression models trained on data from 28 patients. Our experiments revealed that the best-performing single-test models exhibited an inverse prediction in 5 patients. A combined model incorporating two tests reduced misclassification to three patients. Further stratification of patients into symptom-specific groups, based on the presence of medication-induced tremor changes, and training two subgroup-specific models led to only one subject being misclassified. These results underscore the potential of mobile device biomarkers for prediction of symptom changes in Parkinson’s disease patients and the need for individualization.