bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Health Informatics Education
Authors: Hovenga Evelyn J.S.
Published: February 2025

Health informatics education has evolved since the 1960s with a strong research foundation primarily in medical schools across the USA and Europe. By 1989 health informatics education was provided in some form by at least 20 countries representing five continents. This continues to progress, in Europe with the help of a number of special projects, via the integration of informatics into pre registration health professional courses, undergraduate and post graduate course work and research degree programs. Each program is unique in terms or content and structure reflecting the many foundation disciplines which contribute or are incorporated in the health informatics discipline. Nursing informatics education is not as widespread. Indeed the evidence suggests a poor uptake of informatics by this profession. Advances in computer based educational technologies are making innovative modes of educational delivery possible and are facilitating a shift towards learner centred, flexible and life long learning. Greater cooperation between Universities is recommended.
The Medical Informatics Curriculum at the University of Heidelberg/School of Technology Heilbronn: New Developments in its 5th Revision
Authors: Haux Reinhold  , Leven Franz Josef
Published: February 2025

We report about new developments in the 5th version of the medical informatics program at the University of Heidelberg / School of Technology Heilbronn, reflect our approaches for the revision and discuss our current curriculum in relationship to other curricula in health informatics and medical informatics.
FROM TOY TO TOOL: THE DEVELOPMENT OF IMMERSIVE VIRTUAL REALITY ENVIRONMENTS FOR PSYCHOTHERAPY OF SPECIFIC PHOBIAS
Authors: Bullinger Alex H.  , Roessler Andreas  , Mueller-Spahn Franz
Published: February 2025

Virtual Reality (VR) entered the mental health field some years ago. While the technology itself has been available for more than ten years now, there is still a certain amount of uncertainty among researchers and users as to whether VR will one day fulfill all it's promises.
EXPERIENTIAL COGNITIVE THERAPY: A VR BASED APPROACH FOR THE ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT OF EATING DISORDERS
Authors: Riva Giuseppe  , Bacchetta Monica  , Baruffi Margherita  , Rinaldi Silvia  , Molinari Enrico
Published: February 2025

Even if there has been significant progress in research on eating disorders, little empirical work has been done yet to specify the content of clinical guidelines and to validate their efficacy in treatment. In particular there are at least three themes that are somehow neglected by current guidelines: body experience disturbances, motivation for change and the integration between the different approaches used.
VIRTUAL REALITY FOR PALLIATIVE MEDICINE
Authors: Oyama Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

The technology of virtual reality (VR) offers several advantages in the field of medicine because it enables us to practice medical procedures repeatedly, and can provide a variety of experiences by using virtual organs in different patients. It also aids in leaming about a clinical procedure and facilitates objective evaluation by a Supervisor.
POSSIBILITY OF VIRTUAL REALITY FOR MENTAL CARE
Authors: Ohsuga Mieko  , Oyama Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

The possibility of applying Virtual Reality (VR) techniques to the mental care of patients is discussed in this chapter. VR technology holds much promise for providing supportive activities and promoting cooperation among caregivers. Interactivity with media may give the feeling of control to patients and thus provide a greater joy than passively watching television. Immersion in VR is expected to reduce pain and relieve anxieties for a while. Some kinds of VR content would make patients relaxed or encourage them in their fight against disease. Moreover, networked VR could offer a virtual space where patients meet, communicate, organize activities, and share experiences with other people - other patients, friends, family members, medical doctors, social workers, and so on. A basic study and trials to evaluate our developed VR system, called the ‘Bedside Wellness System,’ provide evidence for the effectiveness of this approach. Future research tasks are also discussed.
Geometric Torsion in Idiopathic Scoliosis: a First 3D Analysis and a Proposal to a New Classification
Authors: Poncet Philippe  , Dansereau Jean  , Labelle Hubert
Published: February 2025

In this paper we propose a new method of classification, which goes beyond the frontal plane projection of the spine, to describe the 3-D shape of a scoliotic spine. A 3D analysis of the spine in terms of geometric torsion has revealed three distinct patterns of torsion in major scoliotic curves. Geometric torsion had extreme values at the levels of upper and lower vertebrae and zero or nearly zero values at the levels of the apices. Torsion phenomenon can be unidirectional or bi-directional in both single and double major curves.
Biomechanical Modeling of the Non-Linear Behavior of Costo-Vertebral and Costo-Transverse Joints
Authors: Gignac D.  , Aubin C.-É.  , Skalli W.  , Le Borgne P.  , Dansereau J.  , Lavaste F.  , Labelle H.
Published: February 2025

The goal of this study is to develop new biomechanical models representing the non-linear behavior of costo-vertebral and costo-transverse joints (CVCT). Three models of the CVCT joints were developed using different types of beams : 3D elastic beams; linear 3D plastic beams ; and multi-linear 3D plastic beams. Moments from -0.6 to 0.6 Nm by increment of 0.1 Nm were applied on the rib of each model and compared to experiments data from 11 cadaveric spines for levels T1-T2, T5-T6 and T9-T10. In each case, the mechanical and geometrical properties were iteratively changed to best represent CVCT joints experimental behavior. This study produced three different models that can be used to represent the local behavior of the CVCT joints. These models will be extended to the intermediate anatomical levels by interpolation and included in our global model of the trunk.
Disc and Vertebral Wedging in Patients with Progressive Scoliosis
Authors: Stokes Ian A.F.  , Aronsson David D.  , Jones Marci
Published: February 2025

This paper reports a retrospective longitudinal study of patients with documented progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) or with scoliosis associated with cerebral palsy (SACP) to determine the relative amount of wedging between vertebrae and discs as a function of progression of the scoliosis curve and curve region. It was found that 1. the curves in SACP patients were longer, and more commonly in the thoraco-lumbar region; 2. The relative vertebral and disc wedging was not significantly different between curves early and late in the progression in either group; 3. In AIS, thoracic curves (King II) the vertebrae were more wedged than the discs, the converse was found in the lumbar curves (King I); 4. A similar difference by anatomical level was found in SACP curves, with the thoraco-lumbar curves resembling lumbar curves rather than thoracic.
Scoliosis and Developmental Biology: Testing The Hypothesis
Authors: T D.P.MOORE  , T E.E.FOGARTY
Published: February 2025

It is generally believed that scoliosis with a left thoracic convexity is more likely to have underlying pathology than the commoner right pattern. Examination of the scoliosis database showed that infantile idiopathic and congenital scoliosis have a random distribution of right and left curve patterns. Juvenile and adolescent idiopathic groups and scoliosis secondary to pathological conditions showed 4:1 ratio of right to left. This was more marked in girls than in boys but did not support the view that left thoracic scoliosis is by definition pathological.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Spine Deformities in Children at Specialized Centre
Authors: Sadovoy M.A.  , Fomichev N.G.  , Sadovaya T.N.  , Sarnadski V.N.
Published: February 2025

A Specialized Spine Centre for diagnosis and treatment of spine deformities in children has been organized based on a topographic computer system (TODP-system) for estimation of spine deformities (created at Novosibirsk Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Russia) It has been functioning for two years. All children population at the age from 7 to 15 years (25600 children) of one of the districts of Novosibirsk was examined during this period. The examination revealed: the general level of spine morbidity is 37.5%, of scoliosis - 7.5%, and of scoliosis with more than 20° - 2%. Plane deviations from the norm: in frontal plane 32,1%, in sagittal - 58.2%, in horizontal - 64.5%. 20% of children with pronounced spine deformities were referred to monitoring. 1500 children underwent conservative treatment. Favourable results were achieved in 92% of treated patients. The experience of this Spine Centre demonstrated high efficiency of the activity of such kind of institutions.
Vagal and Sympathetic Reinnervation after Cardiac Transplantation: Effect of Type of Surgery on Baroreflex Modulation of Cardiovascular Variability
Authors: Bernardi Luciano  , Passino Claudio  , Spadacini Giammario  , Valenti Cinzia  , Rinaldi Mauro  , Martinelli Luigi  , Vigano Mario  , Finardi Giorgio
Published: February 2025

The human transplanted heart is a model of denervated heart, hence any fluctuation present in thc RR interval variability can be either due to reaquired innervation, or to represent the effect of some non autonomic activity, such as a direct effect of respiration on atrial stretch. Various physical and pharmacological manoeuvres on the respiratory and non-respiratory components of heart rate variability are used to assess the occurrence of reinnervation.
AUTONOMIC CORRELATES OF ORTHOSTATIC INTOLERANCE AND SEIZURES
Authors: Novak V.  , Novak P.  , Reeves A.  , Low P.A.
Published: February 2025

We describe an integrated evaluation of central autonomic regulation, relating the simultaneously recorded electroencephalogram (EEG) and transcranial Doppler (TCD) to systemic cardiovascular indices. Signal analysis techniques included time-frequency analysis and nonlinear rescaled range analysis. The inhibition of centrally mediated autonomic rhythms can precede clinical manifestations e.g. syncope (increased slow EEG modulation, withdrawal of 0.05 Hz rhythms in BP and progressive decline in total peripheral resistance). We tested the hypothesis that partial complex seizures, which has a structural substrate with powerful autonomic manifestations, might also have autonomic alterations that precede EEG changes. We observed that sympathetic activation of slow rhythms in RRI preceded seizure onset, while parasympathetically mediated rhythms rapidly diminished at the beginning of the seizure. We used the Hurst exponent, based on the rescaled range analysis for evaluation of deterministic component in patients with orthostatic tachycardia. Data showed that the loss of variability in RRI was associated with increased values of Hurst exponent. Thus, the process become more deterministic.
Translating and Testing ICNP in Brazil
Authors: Marin Heimar F.
Published: February 2025

In 1996, the Nursing Informatics Center at the Federal University of São Paulo (NIEn/UNIFESP) became a sponsored partner in the Telenurse consortium. The responsibilities were to translate ICNP alpha version into Brazilian Portuguese language, to make a field test and also to implement in Eletronic Patient Record. At the present, the translation was done, available in paper and eletronic format. In addition, an initial field test was performed. The results show that ICNP terms can be use to document nursing phenomena in general and obstetrics ward. However, more efforts have to be done in order to disseminate the classification among Brazilian nurses to facilitate the use to document nursing interventions.
Efficient Linear Elastic Models of Soft Tissues for real-time surgery simulation
Authors: Delingette H.  , Cotin S.  , Ayache N.
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we describe the basic components of a surgery simulator prototype developed at INRIA. We present two physical models which are well suited for surgery simulation. These models are based on linear elasticity theory and finite elements modeling. The former model can deforme large tetrahedral meshes in real-time but does not allow any topological changes. On the contrary, the latter biomechanical model can simulate the cutting and tearing of soft tissue but must have a limited number of vertices to run in realtime. We propose a method for combining these two approaches into a hybrid model which may allow real time deformations and cuttings of large enough anatomical structures.
Stereo Augmented Reality in the Surgical Microscope
Authors: King Andrew P.  , Hawkes David J.  , Fleig Oliver  , Maurer Jr Calvin R.  , Hill Derek L.G.  , Fenlon Michael R.  , de Cunha Darryl A.  , Gaston Ron P.  , Chandra Subhash  , Mannss Juergen  , Strong Anthony J.  , Gleeson Michael J.  , Cox Tim C.S.
Published: February 2025

We present an augmented reality system that allows surgeons to view features from preoperative radiological images accurately overlaid in stereo in the optical path of a surgical microscope. The purpose of the system is to show the surgeon structures beneath the viewed surface in the correct 3-D position. The technical challenges are registration, tracking, calibration and visualisation. For patient registration, or alignment to preoperative images, we use bone-implanted markers and a dental splint is used for patient tracking. Both microscope and patient are tracked by an optical localiser. Calibration uses an accurately manufactured object with high contrast circular markers which are identified automatically. All ten camera parameters are modelled as a bivariate polynomial function of zoom and focus. The overall system has a theoretical overlay accuracy of better than 1mm. Implementations of the system have been tested on seven patients. Recent measurements in the operating room conformed to our accuracy predictions. For visualisation the system has been implemented on a graphics workstation to enable high frame rates with a variety of rendering schemes. Several issues of 3-D depth perception remain unsolved, but early results suggest that perception of structures in the correct 3-D position beneath the viewed surface is possible.
An intelligent, interactive platform for ophthalmic teaching, telemedicine, and telecollaboration: Design considerations and prototype construction
Authors: Hariprasad Ravi  , Shin David S.  , Berger Jeffrey W.
Published: February 2025

The development of technologies permitting processing, compression, and transmission of digital images and image sequences enables powerful methodologies for local and remote medical teleconsultauon. We are developing a slit-lamp-based ophthalmic augmented reality (image overlay) environment incorporating features to permit real-time, interactive teaching, telemedicine, and telecollaboration. A binocular slit-lamp biomicroscope interfaced to a CCD camera, framegrabber board, and PC permits acquisition and rendering of anterior segment and retinal images. Computer-vision algorithms facilitate robust tracking, registration, and near-video-rate image overlay of previously stored retinal photographic and angiographic images onto the real-time fundus image. Our algorithms facilitate shared control of pointing, drawing, and measuring functions registered with the retinal image video stream and direct audio communication between an examiner (student, generalist) and remote observer (instructor, specialist). Bandwidth and video compression considerations limit the frame rate and latency for video stream transmission. Excellent and acceptable performance are demonstrated in model eyes over a local area network and through a modem connection, respectively. These studies represent the first investigations towards the design and implementation of an intelligent platform for ophthalmic telemedicine and telecollaboration.
DEFORMATION SIMULATION ALGORITHMS OF ELASTIC TISSUES IN “REAL-TIME” BASED IN ELASTICITY THEORY
Authors: Monserrat Aranda Carlos  , Juan Lizandra M Carmen  , Raya Mariano Alcañiz  , Colomer Vicente Grau  , Knoll Christian
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a new deformable model based in Boundary Elements Method (BEM) is presented. This model is characterised by its robustness and high deformation calculation speed. Experiments developed show that this model could calculate elastic deformations of elastic objects composed by 150 nodes with a 15 Hz. refresh rate (minim refresh rate acceptable in real time interactive systems).
THE WEARABLE MOTHERBOARD$^{\copy}$: A FLEXIBLE INFORMATION INFRASTRUCTURE OR SENSATE LINER FOR MEDICAL APPLICATIONS
Authors: Park Sungmee  , Gopalsamy Chandramohan  , Rajamanickam Rangaswamy  , Jayaraman Sundaresan
Published: February 2025

Research on the design and development of a Sensate Liner for Combat Casualty Care has led to the realization of the world’s first Wearable Motherboard® or an “intelligent” garment for the 21stCentury. This Georgia Tech Wearable Motherboard (GTWM) provides an extremely versatile framework for the incorporation of sensing, monitoring and information processing devices. The principal advantage of GTWM is that it provides, for the first time, a very systematic way of monitoring the vital signs of humans in an unobtrusive manner. Appropriate sensors have been “plugged” into this motherboard using the developed Interconnection Technology and attached to any part of the individual being monitored, thereby creating a flexible wearable monitoring device. The flexible data bus integrated into the structure transmits the information to monitoring devices such as an EKG Machine, a temperature recorder, a voice recorder, etc. The bus also serves to transmit information to the sensors (and hence, the wearer) from external sources, thus making GTWM a valuable information infrastructure. GTWM is lightweight and can be worn easily by anyone — from infants to senior citizens. GTWM has enormous potential for applications in fields such as telemedicine, monitoring of patients in post-operative recovery, the prevention of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), and monitoring of astronauts, athletes, law enforcement personnel and combat soldiers.
AN INTERFACE FOR PRECISE AND COMFORTABLE 3D WORK WITH VOLUMETRIC MEDICAL DATASETS
Authors: Serra Luis  , Hern Ng  , Guan Chua Gim  , Lee Eugene  , Lee Yen H.  , Yeo T.T.  , Chan Chumpon  , Kockro Ralf A.
Published: February 2025

We have developed a 3D/2D paradigm of interaction that combines manipulation of precise 3D volumetric data with unambiguous widget interaction. Precise 3D interaction is ensured by a combination of resting the lower arms on an armrest and pivoting the hands around the wrist. Unambiguous 2D interaction is achieved by providing passive haptic feedback by means of a virtual control panel whose position coincides with the physical surfaces encasing the system. We have tested this interface with a neurosurgical planning application that has been clinically used for 17 skull-base cases at two local hospitals.
Virtual Cutting of Anatomical Structures
Authors: Voß Gerrit  , Hahn James K.  , Müller Wolfgang  , Lindeman Rob
Published: February 2025

In the context of medicine cutting is one of the most important operations. Many surgical tasks start with an incision, allowing the surgeon to access the region of interest, using either conventional or minimal invasive surgery techniques. The work presented herein should be seen in the context of surgical training and preoperative planning using computer assisted medical simulation systems. The main result of this work is the proposed cutting algorithm based on predefined templates. To integrate this approach in the existing surgical training simulator and to handle additional tasks like soft tissue deformation, needed by the medical environment, a generic simulation framework was developed. This framework is able to utilize given multiprocessor- and network-environments to achieve the desired realtime interactivity.
Telemedicine and Diabetes
Authors: Engelbrecht Rolf  , Hildebrand Claudia
Published: February 2025

Telecommunication technology has reached a maturity which can effectively support the promotion of health, prevention and management of diseases and rehabilitation. To achieve effective support harmonisation and interoperability of technologies are main requirements. This article tries to point out how interoperability is being met and how the requirements are being applied using DIABCARD as an example. DIABCARD has developed a chip card based medical information system for the care of persons with diabetes.
NOAH A Mobile Emergency Care System
Authors: Schächinger Ulrich  , Kretschmer Rainer  , Neumann Carsten  , Nerlich Michael
Published: February 2025

Experiencing communication problems in our emergency services, we developed an innovative communication network and system (NOAH, which stands for Notfall-Organisations-und Arbeitshilfe, or Emergency-Organisation Active Aide System). In contrast with the currently established emergency services communication in Germany by radio wave, data is transferred from the scene in the form of an electronic record on a notepad-computer by means of the wireless data communication network Modacom ($\underline{Mo}$bile $\underbar{D}$ata $\underline{Com}$munication), which is provided by German Telekom. It is received at the dispatch-centre in mentioned format and transferred to the admitting hospital without any loss of data.
Implications of the EU Data Protection Directive and Council of Europe Recommendations for Healthcare Establishments
Authors: Clark Robert
Published: February 2025

This work is intended to provide an assessment of the E.U. Directive and how the legal obligations imposed on Member States will impact upon European health care activities within the European Union. The main features of the Directive are described and the author provides a summary of the main features of the Directive with recommendations as to the way ahead. Apart from the provisions found in the Directive, attention has been paid to the two Council of Europe Recommendations in the field, Recommendation R(81), Regulations for Automated Medical Data Banks, and Recommendation R(97)5, The Protection of Medical Data. Particular attention has been paid to this latter document, and references to the text of R(97)5 are made whenever R(97)5 provides valuable additional insights into key issues of definition, law or procedure.
Southern Health Board - Advanced Telematic / Telemedicine in Healthcare Services in the South West of Ireland
Authors: O'Sullivan U.M.  , Somers Jack
Published: February 2025

The Southern Health Board has been involved in Telematic Healthcare services for the past number of years. Our involvement in a number of EU funded projects has given us extensive experience and expertise in this area. The primary focus of our telematic applications is optimising health services delivery with a particular emphasis towards people who are isolated due to social and physical boundaries and limitations.
Statistical approaches for evaluation of genetic risk factor of peripheral arterial occlusive disease
Authors: Svatoš J.  , Orendáč M.  , Mušková B.  , Hyánek J.  , Kožich V.  , Zvárová J.
Published: February 2025

In the paper we show results of medical study from statistical point of view. The medical study was aimed to study genetic risk factors of peripheral arterial occlusive diseases in Czech population. Two genes, CBS and MTHFR were examined, as various genotypes of these genes are thought to have impact on amino thiols, who participate in variety of reactions in vasculature. Statistical part of the study was responsible for analysis and interpretation of collected data.
Treatment of Missing Values with Imputation for the Analysis of Otologic Data
Authors: Laurikkala Jorma  , Kentala Erna  , Juhola Martti  , Pyykkö Ilmari
Published: February 2025

Usefulness of imputation in the treatment of missing values in an otologic database was studied. Missing values were filled in with means (ME), regression (LR) and Expectation-Maximization (EM) imputation methods. A random imputation method (RA) provided baseline results. ME, LR and EM methods agreed on 41-42% of the imputed missing values. The level of agreement between these and RA method was 20-22%. Despite the moderate agreement, discriminant functions were similar and accurate (prediction accuracy 83-99%) for each diagnosis. A lot of data were missing in otoneurotologic tests which have less weight in the diagnosis of vertiginous patients. Consequently, the disagreement of the methods did not affect discriminant analysis. Imputation seems to be a useful method to treat missing data in this database, but future research requires more complete data and advanced imputation methods.
Data Warehousing as a Tool for Quality Management in Oncology
Authors: Hölzer S.  , Tafazzoli A.G.  , Altmann U.  , Wächter W.  , Dudeck J.
Published: February 2025

At present, physicians are constrained by their limited skills to integrate and understand the growing amount of electronic medical information. To handle, extract, integrate, analyse and take advantage of the gathered information regarding the quality of patient care, the concept of a data warehouse seems to be especially interesting in medicine. Medical data warehousing allows the physicians to take advantage of all the operational data they have been collecting over the years. Our purpose is to build a data warehouse in order to use all available information about cancer patients. We think that with the sensible use of this tool, there are economic benefits for the Society and an improvement of quality of medical care for patients.
Increasing the Diversity of Medical Data Mining through Distributed Object Technology
Authors: Holeňa Martin  , Sochorová Anna  , Zvárová Jana
Published: February 2025

Data mining has been recently experiencing a boom of interest from researchers and software producers. In medicine, however, its applications are still rather rare. In this paper, we argue that this is primarily due to the requirements of reproducibility of results and diversity of available data mining tools, both of which are crucially important for medical research. We propose to tackle the diversity requirement by means of distributed object technologies. The results presented here rely on our experience with medical data mining using the method GUHA and with further developing that method.
Outpatient Health Care Statistics Data warehouse - logical design
Authors: Natek Srečko
Published: February 2025

Outpatient Health Care Statistics on a state level is a central point where all relevant statistic data are collected from various sources from all over the country. Various and complex requirements for processing and reporting data makes Outpatient Health Care Statistics on a state level a perfect example for efficient implementing of Data warehouse technology. The research investigates logical design of data warehouse with a special attention on a different data modeling technique in various phases of a logical data warehouse design. The research shows that a requirement for processing statistical data determines the design decision and thus the scope and semantic value of final data warehouse.
Generalisation and extension of a web-based data collection system for clinical studies using Java and CORBA
Authors: Eich H.P.  , Ohmann C.
Published: February 2025

Inadequate informatical support of multi-centre clinical trials lead to pure quality. In order to support a multi-centre clinical trial a data collection via WWW and Internet based on Java has been developed. In this study a generalisation and extension of this prototype has been performed. The prototype has been applied to another clinical trial and a knowledge server based on C++ has been integrated via CORBA. The investigation and implementation of security aspects of web-based data collection is now under evaluation.
AIDMAN - Advanced Informatics Distributed Medical Access Network
Authors: Clarke M  , Jones R W  , Kanellopoulos N  , Lioupis D  , Nassiopoulos A
Published: February 2025

We describe AIDMAN, a pilot project in which health clinics in remote areas of Greece are connected with mainland hospitals, to provide routine clinical service for both chronic health care and accident and emergency. Clinical practice is supported through the use of the Virtual Consultation Workstation that is being developed and evaluated specifically for the project and which is based on readily available commercial products and international standards. The communication infrastructure remains a major obstacle to any telemedicine project, and for this reason, satellite communication is used in the AIDMAN project to overcome the current lack of digital links and bandwidth. The proposed system will provide real time video, high definition image, shared applications and data over a link running at 128 kbps. In this paper we discuss the design of the AIDMAN system, the Virtual Consultation Workstation and the communication channel.
Interdisciplinary Dialogue Center - a model for collaborative work http://www.cdi.pub.ro
Authors: Filip Floriana  , Trica Alexandria  , Jitaru Elena  , Jitaru Mihai Cristian  , Dop Radu  , Gutiu Ion  , Dumitrache Ion  , Richards Bernard  , Pappas Costas
Published: February 2025

The paper describes the adopted concept in the design of an interdisciplinary center aiming to be a frame for a collaborative work between practicing clinicians, health service managers, those involved in the use and management of health care information, the design and implementation of health care systems, including commercial suppliers, research into these areas and NGOs.
A Software Tool to Assist the Planning of Electrophysiological Experiments on Rat Brain Slices
Authors: Bocioaca Alexandra  , Badea Cristian  , Papatheodoropoulos Costas  , Kostopoulos George
Published: February 2025

We propose an interactive software tool for finding the plane which can be cut through the rat brain so as to contain maximum cross-section with a selected brain structure or combination of structures, i.e. a path of nerve fibers and the area they are known to connect to. A set of digitized coronal images from a stereotactic rat brain atlas is preprocessed: the images are registered, and the structures of interest plus the bulk of the brain are assigned specific gray levels. The Interactive Data Language (IDL) computing environment is used for volume reconstruction, visualization, and implementing the search procedure. Selected rat brain structures can be analyzed with our method, provided that the preprocessing of the atlas images is performed. As a first application of this method we have identified a set of parameters for which a plane (0.4 mm slice thickness) cut through the rat brain includes as many as possible intact connections between the fornix fibers and the mammilary bodies. Further development of the application will focus on automating the process and extending it to visualization of histochemical and autoradiographic data.
TeCoMed Online Consulting of Acute Health Risks
Authors: Greiner G.  , Kundt G.  , Gierl L.
Published: February 2025

Geomedical systems are information systems used to monitor the health situation in geographically distributed populations. Both are used to detect and to forecast health risks. In this paper, we present the system TeCoMed, which fulfills the following tasks: (1) discovering health risks; (2) forecasting temporal and spatial spread of epidemics; (3) estimating consequences of an epidemic; (4) presentation of the results via Internet.
Multiresolution Segmentation of Three-Dimensional Medical Images Using Mathematical Morphology Techniques
Authors: Grau Vicente  , Alcañiz Mariano  , Knoll Christian  , Juan M. Carmen  , Monserrat Carlos
Published: February 2025

A semi-automatic method for three-dimensional segmentation of medical images is proposed. A multiresolution representation is achieved through the application of morphological filters, which assures causality for image extrema. This allows for a compact scale space representation, in which each extremum is assigned a scale value. Interactive selection of the interesting extrema of the image is carried out, aided by this scale information and other relevant features. Extrema selected are then used as markers in three-dimensional watersheds calculation. The system has been developed and tested under low cost platforms, and can be the base for totally automatic, knowledge based segmentation systems.
Clinical Evaluation of a Highly Accurate Algorithm for CT Bone Contour Segmentation
Authors: Pernozzoli A.  , Burghart C.  , Brief J.  , Haßfeld S.  , Raczkowsky J.  , Mühling J.  , Wörn H.
Published: February 2025

Planning, visualisation and intraoperative navigation in a robot assisted environment for craniofacial surgery require highly accurate methods for the segmentation of bone structures in CT data. Clinical systems are still based on time consuming interactive methods like the seed-point segmentation. Faster methods with no need for interactivity lacks in precision. In the following we will present an automatic and highly accurate algorithm for the segmentation of bone contours in CT data. It is based on an algorithm for the automatic calculation of a grey-value tissue relation model for CT and MRI data
Virtual Body Structures: A 3D Structure Development Tool from Visible Human Data
Authors: Stephens Bryan  , Temkin Bharti  , Krummel Thomas M.  , Heinrichs Wm. LeRoy
Published: February 2025

Understanding the visiospatial aspects of anatomic structures is one of the most important aspects of studying gross anatomy. In this paper we are describing a tool that self-constructs 3D virtual body structures (VBS) ‘right in-front-of your-eyes’. Furthermore, manipulation capabilities, such as translucent visualization, interactive rotation, translation, and scaling, incorporated into VBS facilitate fundamental learning experience that leads one to ‘build 3D models in the mind’, providing a validation of computer-assisted individual learning. Creating 3-D virtual body structures from actual human data has long been a dream of many computer scientists and Medical doctors. Now, with the advances in computer hardware and software technologies, our Virtual Body Structure technique, and the Visible Human project, that dream is becoming a reality.
Parallel Segmentation and Rendering Using Clusters of PCs
Authors: Blanquer I.  , Hernández V.  , Ramírez F.J.  , Vidal A.
Published: February 2025

Clinics have to deal currently with hundreds of 3D images a day. 3D Medical Images contain a huge amount of data, and thus, very expensive and powerful systems are required in order to process them. The present work shows the features of a software parallel computing package developed at the Universidad Politecnica de Valencia, under the European Project HIPERCIR. http://hiperttn.upv.es/hipercir. Project HIPERCIR is aimed at reducing the time and requirements for processing and visualising 3D images with low-cost solutions, such as networks of PCs running standard operating systems (Windows 95/98/NT). This project is being developed by a consortium formed by medical image processing and parallel computing experts from the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (UPV), experts on biomedical software and radiology clinic experts.
Creating a Human Phantom for the Virtual Human Program
Authors: Ward Richard C.  , Yambert Mark W.  , Toedte Ross J.  , Munro Nancy B.  , Easterly Clay E.  , Difilippo Eduardo P.  , Stallings David C.
Published: February 2025

A high-resolution human phantom – a computer representation of the human anatomy – is needed as part of the Virtual Human (VH) simulation environment being developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory and collaborators. Within the VH environment, this 3D anatomical phantom is coupled with physiological models and data to investigate a wide range of human biological and physical responses to stimuli. This paper describes how the phantom was created using the Visible Human (male) image data from the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Initially, X-ray computed tomography (CT) as well as photographic images of the Visible Human (male) torso were segmented and classified with software developed using IDL. From these data, non-uniform, rational B-spline (NURBS) spatial models were fitted to represent the surfaces of discrete body structures such as bones and organs. This collection of NURBS models, referred to as the NURBS VH, defines the fundamental Virtual Human phantom. The NURBS VH is compatible with modeling and animation software, enabling dynamic manipulation of body structures and their associated visual representations. The organization of the structural data lends itself to existing and evolving Web and electronic communication standards, making it attractive for applications such as medical training. In addition, finite-element (FE) meshes were created from the NURBS VH for use in trauma simulation, electromagnetic field exposure modeling, dosimetry, and other applications requiring spatially-defined tissue properties. The ability to scale the NURBS VH to account for age and size and the ability to easily animate NURBS objects yield a very flexible human phantom for the VH simulation environment.
Short term Autonomic Nervous Control of the Cardiovascular System: A System Theoretic Approach
Authors: Le Vey G.  , Vermeiren C.
Published: February 2025

A non-linear model of the human cardiovascular regulation system (CVS) has been developed, with the aim of studying the short term regulation process by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). This restricts the time interval under study to range from fractions of seconds to about 30 seconds. As a consequence, the only feedback mechanism taken into account is the baroreceptors loop. Our main guideline has been first to try to capture the main features of the system that have been observed and reported in the relevant publications in physiology - main non-linearities in the elementary components of the system, intrinsic periodicities - while keeping to a minimum the number of model parameters, with the question of identifiability from real data in mind. Also, we have tried to retain as much physiological significance to these parameters as possible, for forthcoming diagnosis purposes, while using non invasive measurements only. At the present time, no venous return has been taken into account but should be included later on. The long term objective of this research is to develop tools for helping in medical diagnosis. This may go through the detection of defaults in this closed loop system, within the framework of control systems theory, hereby using all the known concepts from that field, that have been much used for engineering systems (mechanical, electrical etc.): these include signal processing techniques as well as control algorithms or identification and detection methods.
Models of the Arterial Tree
Authors: Westerhof N.  , Stergiopulos N.
Published: February 2025

The arterial system can be modelled by means of distributed analogs and by lumped parameter representations, such as the Windkessel. The distributed models, together with biological data, lead to the explanation of arterial function in terms of pressure and flow. The lumped parameter models form the basis of arterial compliance and characteristic impedance estimation. They also make comparison between mammals possible and it could be shown that input impedance, when scaled, is similar in mammals.
Inter-University cooperation for establishing an M.Sc. course in Health Informatics aims at contributing to users’ acceptance of health telematics applications
Authors: Mantas John
Published: February 2025

Health informatics is a recently established and important multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary field that not only involves informatics but also medicine, nursing, engineering, biology and other-related subjects. A coordination of this field at a postgraduate level becomes important now in Europe where other European Community programs such as the Telematics for Health Care will require at the Fourth Framework Programme (1994-1999) and the Fifth Framework Programme (2000-2006) adequate human resources of higher potential and knowledge. A European M.Sc. course met all the above objectives. The curriculum was developed according to previous experiences in similar programmes. Recently the course has been organised on the basis of an Inter-University nature with the participation of 5 Greek Universities. The paper aims at providing a description of the new academic programme and a brief evaluation of the implementation phase.
Utilising multimedia for training merchant mariners as paramedics
Authors: Anogianakis George  , Maglavera Stavroula
Published: February 2025

MERMAID is a telemedicine project with global reach and a 24-hour, multilingual capability. It aspires to provide a model for the provision of health care services based on the electronic transmission of medical information, via ISDN based videoconferencing. This model is not limited to medical diagnostics but it encompasses all cases where the actual delivery of health care services involves a patient who is not located where the provider is. Its implementation requires the commissioning of an expensive telecommunications infrastructure and the exploration of a number of solutions. In fact, all categories of telemedical applications are considered while the full range of network choices is explored in terms of the cost/performance tradeoffs inherent to them and the developmental stage each of these options occupies in its life cycle. MERMAID utilises advanced land based line transmission technologies to aid the remote patient by making available the specialty care best suited to each particular case. Finally, the development of programme modules for training and education of the seafarers in the use of the MERMAID medical communications system is given top priority as such modules constitute the firmest basis for the promotion of proper practice of telemedicine at sea.
10. Security Aspects in Relation to the HISA Standard Middleware Architecture
Authors: Ferrara Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

The integration and evolution of existing Systems represents one of the most urgent priorities of health care information Systems in order to allow the whole organisation to meet the increasing clinical organisational and managerial needs. The ENV 12967-1 ‘Healthcare Information Systems Architecture’ standard defines an architectural approach based on a middleware of business-specific common services, enabling all parts of the local and geographical system to rely on a common information heritage of patient, clinical, administrative and managerial data.
Telepathology Network: Conceptual Groundwork and Evaluation
Authors: Ganslandt Thomas  , Korsching Eberhard  , Müller Marcel Lucas  , Herbst Hermann  , Spiegel Hans-Ullrich  , Prokosch Hans-Ulrich  , Senninger Norbert
Published: February 2025

Telepathology uses telecommunication technology to transmit microscopic images for diagnostic or teaching purposes. Basic requirements for a telepathology system are described. Usage scenarios for a telepathology network are presented including applications in intraoperative frozen section diagnosis, scientific collaboration and computer based training. Results of an evaluation of 4 currently available telepathology systems are presented.
ROBO-SIM: A Simulator for Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery using an Active Manipulator
Authors: Radetzky Arne  , Rudolph Michael  , Starkie Stephen  , Davies Brian  , Auer Ludwig M.
Published: February 2025

This application report describes the software system ROBO-SIM, which is a planning and simulation tool for minimally invasive neurosurgery. Using actual patient’s datasets, ROBO-SIM includes all planning steps necessary. These are; defining the trepanation point for entry into the skull and the target point within the depth of the brain, checking the surgical track, performing virtual trepanations (virtual craniotomy), and defining sanctioned volumes for use with an intra-operative active manipulator. With the additional simulation part, neurosurgeons are able to simulate whole surgical interventions directly on the patient’s anatomy using the same instruments as for the real operation. First tests with ROBO-SIM are performed on actual patient’s datasets with ventricular tumours.
Akzeptanz und Zukunft des Internets für klinischen Studien in Deutschland – Ergebnisse einer Umfrage
Authors: Kuchinke W.  , Eich H.-P.  , Ohmann C.
Published: February 2025

Pharmafirmen und CROs (Clinical Research Organisations) in Deutschland, die Internettechnologie in klinischen Prüfungen einsetzen, wurden mit einem Fragebogen über das Ausmaß ihres Einsatzes und über ihre Erfahrungen mit dem Internet befragt. Die Schwerpunkte der Umfrage lagen bei den Methoden der Datensammlung, insbesondere dem RDE (Remote Data Entry) und in der Beurteilung des Nutzens und der Probleme, die mit Internettechniken verbunden sind. Die Ergebnisse der Umfrage zeigen, daß die Möglichkeiten des Internets nur eingeschränkt genutzt wurden. Als Hauptaufgaben des Internets wurden die Verteilung von Studiendokumenten, das Marketing und das Studienmanagement genannt. Als Haupthemmnisse gegen den Interneteinsatz traten technische Probleme und ein Mangel an Personal mit Kenntnissen auf.
Using ICD-10 for Case Groups
Authors: Stausberg Jürgen  , Zaiß Albrecht  , Fuchs Johannes  , Berke Andreas
Published: February 2025

The definition of German case groups now uses an adaptation of the ICD- 10: ICD-10-SGBV. For the transformation of the existing ICD-9-based definition into the ICD-10-SGBV an ICD-9/ICD-10 conversion table was used. The derived raw definitions were manually refined in detail. Due to the transformation of the classification system, the number of definitions increased immensely, as the ICD-10 SGBV is by far more detailed than the formerly used ICD-9. In our opinion, ICD-10 SGBV is not ideal for the definition of case groups, because this classification system is designed to support statistics on morbidity and mortality, but definitions of case groups are oriented to cost factors. Therefore the definition of case groups should be based on a specially designed classification system or one should reassess the necessity of a parallel definition by codes of classifications as well as by text. In both alternatives the introduction of a detailed and systematic medical documentation with expressive terminology systems will offer the advantage of classifying patients into medical oriented classifications as well as case groups.
Qualitätssicherung durch evidenz-basierte Evaluation von Behandlungsverläufen (am Beispiel der Zahnmedizin)
Authors: Kus Mehmet  , Walther Winfried  , Wischnewsky Manfred B.
Published: February 2025

Die Verfügbarkeit medizinischen Wissens auf alien Ebenen des medizinischen Versorgungsprozesses ist eine essentielle Voraussetzung für die Gewährleistung einer qualitativ hochwertigen Versorgung. Die klinische Dokumentation in zahnärztlichen Praxen erfüllt in der Regel zwei Aufgaben. Sie ist die Grundlage der Abrechnung von erbrachten Leistungen und stellt dem Zahnarzt eine Orientierungshilfe dar, die ihn über Anamnese, Befund und bisherige Maßnahmen informiert. Diese Patientendaten enthalten wesentliche Informationen über die Güte der Behandlung, die für ein effektives Qualitütssicherungs- und ein therapieunterstützendes System unbedingt erforderlich sind. Das Zentrum für angewandte Informationstechnologien (ZAIT) der Universitüt Bremen hat in Kooperation mit der Akademie für Zahnürztliche Fortbildung Karlsruhe das Softwaresystem “DentHelp” für den praktischen Einsatz konzipiert und realisiert. Mit “DentHelp” wurde ein System entwickelt, das im Rahmen eines zahnärztlichen Dokumentationssystems Behandlungsdaten als Basis zur Entscheidungsunterstützung nutzt. Das System ermöglicht dem Zahnarzt, interne Evidenzen über seine Behandlungsergebnisse zu erlangen und für die Therapieplanung zu nutzen.