New Publications are available for Biomedical engineering
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New Publications are available now online for this publication.
Please follow the links to view the publication.Robust PSD features for ion-channel signals
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2011.0154
Ion-channel sensors which mimic naturally occurring pore-forming proteins can be used to detect small metal ions and organic molecules. A chamber with a lipid bilayer hosting ion-channels produced by protein insertion constitutes such a sensor. Each analyte produces a characteristic signal pattern during its migration from one section of the chamber to another through the ion-channels. A four chamber ion-channel sensor array is built for accurate analyte detection. The power distribution information in the transform domain has been successfully used as discriminatory features for each chamber signal. However, these features are not robust to noise and hence result in a reduced classification performance. In this paper, we pose the stabilization of PSD features extracted from noisy segments as a matrix completion problem. Matrix completion with a low rank assumption provides the stabilized features. We demonstrate using a synthetic experiment that the proposed setup achieves improved classification performance in comparison to using the features directly. Furthermore, performing analyte detection in real ion-channel data, using the proposed robust features, provides reduction in false alarm rates. (5 pages)The potential of Internet of Things (IOT) for assisted living applications
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2011.0040
Presents a collection of slides covering the following topics: m-IOT; healthcare IT; medicine; mobile healthcare; Long Term Evolution; 4G health; m-health; Internet of things; RFID; protocol; WSN; AAL systems; diabetes management system; cellular phone; assisted living; wireless medical sensors; ulPv6 and 6LoWPAN. (40 pages)Applications of waist segment kinematic measurement using accelerometry for an autonomous fall-detection system during continuous activities
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2010.0512
Through the measurement and thresholding of different kinematic and angular signals, from the waist using accelerometry, distinguishing between simulated falls and normal scripted and continuous, unscripted activates was performed and evaluated using these signals. Different combinations of individual signal thresholding algorithms were used to compile a suite of Fall-detection algorithms suitable for an autonomous waist worn system. The suite of algorithms were tested against a comprehensive data-set recorded from 10 young healthy subjects performing 240 falls and 120 activities of daily living and 10 elderly healthy subjects performing 240 scripted and 52.4 hours of continuous unscripted normal activities. Results show that using a simple algorithm employing IMPACT+POSTURE+VELOCITY can achieve a low false-positive rate of less than 1 FP/day (0.94FPs/day) with a sensitivity of 94.6% and a specificity of 100%. The algorithms were tested using continuous unsupervised activities performed by elderly healthy subjects, which is the target environment for a fall detection device.An accurate and adaptive pedometer integrated in mobile health application
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2010.1032
An interesting and valuable application in sensor network technology is Personalised Rehabilitation. In particular, through the combination of a smart phone and wearable sensors, patients can follow and have feedback on their exercise programmes, while enhancing the medical monitoring. In this paper, we design a system to measure the patient's activity by estimating his walking habits. The system, ready to be integrated in a mobile health application, consists of an inertial sensor with a tri-axial orthogonal accelerometer attached to patient's foot, while the sensor is connected to a smart phone for data processing. Additionally, we propose an algorithm for step detection and gait state estimation. The challenge is to provide reliable and accurate detection when pacers are in different gait states. Also, the algorithm will reduce error drifts at start moment when sensor signals are very unstable. Extensive experiment results will demonstrate that the algorithm provides good performance in terms of accuracy, adaptability and memory use.Amplifier design for a biomedical inductive power system
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2010.0507
The use of switching power amplifiers in the driver stage of a biomedical inductive power system is investigated. The main emphasis is on miniature biomedical implant systems where the receiver coils are very small compared to the transmitter coil and where magnetic coupling is very weak. Because of the weak coupling the driver circuit is almost independent of the load variation in the secondary coil. This makes it possible to design the driver circuit for a fixed primary coil parasitic resistance, which acts as an effective load. The goal is to design a primary coil driver circuit for a specified current level determined by field regulations for biomedical devices, by using parameters determined by the coupled electromagnetic system.Intravenous infusion monitoring system based on WSN
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2010.1024
Reviewing various treatment plans, the progress and velocity of intravenous infusion must be strictly controlled. Undeniable, present artificial monitoring methods not only increase the burden of patients, relatives and medical staff, but are vulnerable to lead oversight as well. This paper presents the design and implementation of a novel wireless sensor network for intravenous infusion monitoring based on slot-coupled infrared emitting diode as sensors, chip ATMEGE128L as MCU and chip CC2420 as ZigBee-based RF communication. The system has following characteristics: non-touch droplet monitor, easy to reuse, multiple protections on system accuracy and reliability, easy to integrate with existing hospital management system due to flexible design of the host computer software, low cost, and easy to launch large-scale applications.A vision for the use of human behavioural patterns in improving ambient assisted living systems
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2009.0047
This paper presents a vision for the use of human behavioural patterns in improving ambient assisted living systems for elderly and disabled people. These patterns provide an abstract representation of various actions and activities (such as walking, reading, sitting). Over time, patterns can be identified which capture and generalise the way such behaviours occur. By using them in ambient assisted living systems, it is possible to infer people's well-being, safety, and comfort in their own homes. Being able to classify behaviours, it is possible to remotely assess how 'safe', 'concerning', or 'dangerous', a scenario actually is and what actions should be performed to address problems if any. (6 pages)Fabric-based strain sensors for measuring movement in wearable telemonitoring applications
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2009.0042
This paper summarises preliminary work comparing conductive yarns, knitting structures and yarn compositions in order to integrate smart sensor strips into a surrounding garment as a kinematic measurement tool. The conductive areas of the garment were to be used as a strain-sensitive material; ultimately measuring knee joint movement. In total, thirty sample fabrics were developed using conductive yarns; six of which were chosen to be tested for responsiveness during repeated strain. Preliminary tests showed good levels of responsiveness to strain and acceptable levels of recovery. (4 pages)Integration of assistive technology to support self management of chronic disease
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2009.0043
Assistive technology has been used to assist people with different types of chronic disease, to monitor, remind and guide them through activities of daily living (ADL) in the home environment. This research aims to consider the integration of assistive technology to support self management for three chronic diseases, namely stroke, chronic pain and congestive heart failure. A personalised self-management system (PSMS) is under development. This paper outlines the PSMS infrastructure and presents the current work on the system design. (4 pages)Engineering greater resilience or radical transhuman enhancement?
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2009.0190
This article investigates the conceptual distinctions between therapy and various forms of human enhancement. It begins by proposing a typology of human enhancements in order to make more rigorous and grounded discussions about the distinction between therapy and enhancement. Three types of human enhancement are proposed: 1) engineering traits of accepted value, 2) engineering traits of contested value and 3) radical transhuman enhancements. Subsequently, the paper explores the distinctions between the ethical justifications that are advanced for therapeutic interventions, comparing them with human enhancements, concluding that the salient characteristic of health-related suffering enables enhancement to gain legitimacy from the perspective of traditional medical ethics. Finally, the paper considers a number of practical obstructions to the realization of radical transhuman enhancements. Specifically, it discusses procedural obstacles to approving experimental medical research for human enhancements, the likely commercialization of human enhancements that would ensue from their development, and the need to develop experimental medical interventions via animal models. (29 pages)Determining sleep metrics and nocturnal activity using an unobtrusive pressure sensing grid
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2009.0038
This paper reports on experimental trials with an under mattress bed sensor (UMBS), an easily deployable, non-contact, low cost alternative to the actigraphy watch for sleep monitoring. Results from a home based study of the elderly suggest a correlation between daily activity (using step counts) and nocturnal restlessness. This system also has the ability to track, longitudinally, bed entry and exit times as well as the number and duration of nocturnal bed exits. Restlessness metrics derived from this device offer the potential to aid traditional health assessment. (5 pages)Can control theory throw light on Parkinson's Disease and its treatment with deep brain stimulation?
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2009.1681
A simple neural mass model is used to represent oscillatory activity within closed loop circuits of interacting neurons in the basal ganglia area of the brain in Parkinson's disease. Pathological oscillatory neural activity is generated within the tremor (3-8 Hz), beta (15-30 Hz) and gamma (30-90 Hz) frequency bands. Quenching of the oscillations by means of high frequency deep brain stimulation is illustrated. It is shown that interaction between sub-loops exhibiting tremor and gamma band activity can produce new oscillations within the beta band range, a frequency range clinically associated with increased bradykinesia and akinesia. It is similarly shown that interactions between neural circuits oscillating at the tremor and beta frequencies may result in oscillations at approximately twice the frequency of Parkinsonian tremor. (6 pages)Magnetically induced absorption and possibilities of its application for tasks of practical medicine
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2009.1646
In the report the first results on the experimental investigation of magnetically induced gas sorption on the surface of polymers in strong impulse magnetic field are presented. The methodology of experiment is described and the possibility of using the magnetically induced sorption effect in the medical application is shown. (4 pages)Automatic breath sound detection and removal for cognitive studies of speech and language
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2009.1704
Speech has been previously investigated as means of gaining insight into certain psychiatric disorders. Correlation has been found between temporal characteristics of speech and negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia. However the presence of breath sounds in speech may lead to a decreased performance of classification between patient and control groups. This study presents an algorithmic approach for both breath sounds detection and removal, and also analyses its impact on the ability of a Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) classifier to discriminate between schizophrenic patients and control subject. Results demonstrate that more accurate feature extraction yielded to a 6.7% increase in discrimination ability from 67.5% to 74.2% to differentiate between schizophrenic patients and control subject based on speech alone. (6 pages)An investigation of the impact of gait segmentation on accelerometry-based inclined terrain classification
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2009.1679
Traditional methods of energy expenditure estimation, in the free-living environment, attempted using accelerometry operate without knowledge of the slope of the terrain which is being traversed. The ability to recognise the gradient of the walking surface will most likely improve upon these simplistic energy estimates. This paper expands upon previous work in this area, and investigates the benefit of step-by-step segmentation of the accelerometry signal in classifying the various gradients. Tri-axial accelerometry signals from 12 subjects, performing 30 s of walking on 4 different gradients (up and down paved ramps with gradients of 4.8% and 17.2%), were collected. A feature subset selection search procedure was applied to find the optimal subset of 65 extracted features which maximise the classification accuracy, performed with a Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) classifier, as estimated using six-fold cross-validation. An overall classification accuracy of 94.83% was achieved using 13 features, for the four-class problem. There was an improvement of 4.1% upon the same classification task, without knowledge of the start/end times of individual steps, indicating that segmentation of the accelerometry signals at a step-by-step resolution is important for the automated classification of terrain gradient during walking. (6 pages)Optimising recognition rates for subject independent gait pattern classification
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2009.1680
This paper describes a study which was carried out to determine an optimally performing classification algorithm for the problem of subject independent gait pattern classification. The study utilised a frequency domain based feature vector based on the concept of cepstral coefficients whose generation methodology was optimised in terms of overall system recognition rates. The performance of a number of both linear and nonlinear classification algorithms including neural network and Support Vector Machines was examined. An optimal recognition rate of 78.4±3.2% was achieved using a "one-versus-all" MLP classier applied to a previously unseen test database of 12 subjects completing ten repetitions of five different human gait patterns including walking on level surfaces, walking up and down stairs and walking up and down ramps. (6 pages)Measurement of phonemic degradation in sensorineural hearing loss using a computational model of the auditory periphery
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2009.1683
A computational model of the auditory periphery enables faster investigation of new signal processing algorithms for hearing aids. This paper presents a study of the degradation of auditory nerve (AN) responses at a phonetic level for a range of sensorineural hearing losses. The AN model of Zilany & Bruce was used to compute responses to a diverse set of phoneme rich sentences from the TIMIT database. The characteristics of both the average discharge rate and spike timing of the responses are discussed. The experiments demonstrate that the model responses are consistent with respect to impairment and inaudible thresholds. (6 pages)A novel non-contact vital sign detection system based on phase-coded pulse radar
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp.2009.1980
This paper proposes a new sensitive microwave non-contact vital sign detection system based on phase-coded pulse radar. In order to improve the accuracy of the detection, short time autocorrelation and Golay code is introduced in the new system to increase the SNR of physiological signals. Simulation results show that the dc offset and flick noise, which are dominant factors in the conventional continuous-wave radar, are removed through the autocorrelation process while maintaining the dc component of the signal. Moreover, by adopting arc tangent demodulation, the null point problem in the conventional radar is solved. With the ability of detecting signal in the noise, a robust sensing can be obtained and the system detection range will dramatically increase.Designing a digital anthropometric measurement system for hospitals in Malawi
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080582
Accurate anthropometric measurements are a critical component of healthcare. Errors in reading or recording measurements compromise quality of care. Through a suite of simple technologies described here, a Malawi-based NGO, Baobab Health Partnership, is electronically measuring and recording potentially malnourished children's middle-upper arm circumference (MUAC). This data is quickly and reliably stored in a clinical database using a bar-code scanner connected to their touchscreen-based clinical workstation appliances. The author hypothesizes that, by doing this, fewer errors in measurement and transcription will arise. In addition, health-care providers will have access to cumulative, permanent patient measurement histories. (6 pages)Strengthening interdisciplinary communications to meet the needs of primary and district health workers in developing countries
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080590
This paper maps professional communities and global forums with a focus on meeting the equipment needs (eg diagnostic, surgical, therapeutic) of family caregivers, primary health workers and small-district-hospital setups in low-income countries. The scope will include the full range of appropriate technologies, with the exception of ICTs, a huge area that is well covered elsewhere (see for example: http: //www.healthlink.org.uk/projects/ict.html) Method: Forums of interest were to be searched bottom-up with commonly used search agents (Google, Yahoo). Each forum would be consulted about related information sources, in a cascade sequence. This would be complemented with a top-down search by asking recognised experts in the field for links to eligible forums or other expert contacts who may be able to contribute such links. Conclusions: Levels of engagement in online forums by those concerned with the equipment needs of health workers in developing countries have remained consistently low. The level of participation by health workers themselves seems to be low. The mapping of current information provision on the web indicates that alternative models of dialogue might be more effective in communication, serving to fill this important information need. This paper recommends strengthening an existing forum or implementing a new one, following a defined model that has been shown to successfully promote dialogue. (6 pages)Policy and management of medical devices for the public health care sector in Benin
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080570
Developing countries have very limited resources for procurement and management of medical devices. Usually, the resources that they do have, however, are not used in appropriate and optimal ways. Initial results of a study, supported by NUFFIC and conducted in Benin, are reported, identifying factors that adversely affect the healthcare technology management cycle of planning, budgeting, selection, procurement, distribution, installation, training, operation, maintenance and disposal of medical devices. Poor device management results in low overall community health effectiveness. The study included surveys using semi-structured interviews with policy makers from the Ministries of Health and Finance and Economy, health facility managers, equipment users, maintenance technicians, managers of medical device companies and representatives of external support agencies. Key factors identified so far include: high acquisition costs; lack of insight of the government on medical device market prices; lacks of capacity to monitor reasonable prices from suppliers; lack of insight in the cost/performance ratio of various brands of medical devices; an unequal distribution of devices among health care facilities; an unbalanced allocation of resources for acquisition of devices; infrastructure, and maintenance. Other key factors included the insufficiency of human resources with appropriate capacity to manage the equipment, the unavailability of spare parts, and the lack of an annual maintenance budget. In a nutshell, the lack of good medical devices national policy and management practice. Preliminary results will be presented, starting with a list of essential equipment and of reference prices for the most widely used devices. The latter will allow health sector authorities to monitor financial diversion that may occur during procurement activities, while the former will serve as a reference to assess availability of fully operational devices at different health care facilities. The project aims to provide a basis for the development of basic legislation, empowering the Benin government to assure more cost-effective use of its resources for medical devices. For a variety of reasons, the potential benefits associated with the use of medical devices purchased for the public health care sector of Benin are not fully realized. To improve upon the current situation, the magnitude of the problem and its contributory causes should be examined more systematically. Existing tools, such as value-based pricing, development of an essential medical devices list and technology assessment may be used, but should be tailored to the specific context of the country. Participatory approaches are more likely to produce more sustained effects than simple regulations. (7 pages)Development of the National Healthcare Technology Policy for Cameroon
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080569
The paper describes the process of developing the first National Healthcare Technology Policy for Cameroon as experienced by a member of the drafting committee. Background and context are explained, the approaches used are elaborated, and lessons learnt are presented to serve as encouragement to other healthcare administrations. (7 pages)Review of a biomedical engineering teaching hospital support link Bristol and Uganda
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080594
The paper describes the continuing link between Bristol University and teaching hospitals with those in Mbarara. Uganda. Both the successes and disappointments i challenges are reviewed. Enthusiasm and knowledge can be a good starting point but smart administration and fund-raising are also needed to create a successful link. Higher education for engineers in bioengineering in Uganda is the aim but first the infra-structure must be developed. (5 pages)The ShakerScope®
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080578
The authors describe the development and commercialisation of a novel kinetically powered universal light source that enables a range of essential medical instruments to be used in developing countries and difficult locations. The authors also suggest practical advice and useful resources for would-be inventors and medical entrepreneurs. (8 pages)Development of the Glostavent anaesthetic machine
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080583
The Glostavent anaesthetic machine has been designed to enable inhalational anaesthesia to be administered safely in parts of the world with limited facilities. A trial was carried out in eighteen centres in sub-Saharan Africa in which the Glostavent was shown to be safe, effective and reliable. (1 page)The effectiveness and sustainability of appropriate technology for managing hypoxaemia in remote hospitals in Papua New Guinea.
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080581
Pneumonia is the most common cause of death among children and infants in Papua New Guinea (PNG) . The lethal complication is usually hypoxaemia. Pulse oximeters provide an effective , non-invasive method for the detection of hypoxaemia so that high-risk patients can be identified quickly and given oxygen. Oxygen can be supplied from an oxygen concentrator wherever mains power is available. In 2006 we reported on technical aspects of a programme to install pulse oximeters and oxygen concentrators in 5 rural hospitals in PNG . We aimed to assess whether or not this equipment could make a significant difference to child survival rates and to document what was required to incorporate such technology into everyday clinical practice and to sustain it. (7 pages)Biomedical equipment technician training in Nepal
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080585
Biomedical equipment technicians are badly needed in Nepal to provide the technical help that is necessary for effective medical equipment maintenance. A new training program has been established with the assistance of the Health Ministry and Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University. The program is 48 weeks and includes courses in mathematics, electronics, digital electronics, computers, physiology, medical instrumentation design and medical equipment maintenance and repair. The course concludes with hospital experience. Two groups of 18 persons have completed the course and are working in government hospitals and a third group is now being trained and will complete the course in December 2008. It is estimated that Nepal could use over 200 BMET's. (5 pages)GAME HTM project in Kosovo and future plans elsewhere
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20080584
After four years of previous collaboration and activities, the Ministry of Health (MoH) of Kosovo created a framework for Health Technology (HT) Policy and Strategy in May 2007, with the assistance of the World Health Organization (WHO/TFP/HDS) and the USA-based non-governmental organization (NGO) Global Assistance for Medical Equipment (GAME). This framework addresses many of the health technology management (HTM) challenges identified in Kosovo's public healthcare delivery system. GAME is a coalition of volunteer global medical equipment professionals who either come on-site and or assist via electronic means. GAME and WHO will focus this HTM improvement model next in East Africa. (7 pages)Prediction of elevated pulse pressure in elderly using in-home monitoring sensors: a pilot study
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp_20081095
In this paper we describe the possibility of employing the data generated by a continuous, unobtrusive home monitoring system for predicting abnormal blood pressure (BP) in elderly. Blood pressure may be used for both early detection of clinical conditions (such as heart attacks or strokes) and long term assessment of functional or cognitive decline. We investigated several factors that influence abnormal BP prediction such as sensor type, number of days prior to the BP measurement and algorithm choice. In our algorithms we used the pulse pressure (the difference between systolic and diastolic BP) that is believed to be a better predictor for clinical events. We conducted a retrospective pilot study on two residents of the TigerPlace aging in place facility with age over 70, that had blood pressure measured between 100 and 300 times during a period of two years. The pilot study suggested that abnormal pulse pressure can be reasonably well estimated (an area under ROC curve of about 0.75) using apartment bed and motion sensors. (4 pages)A soft sensing method for monitoring ambulatory activities of patients with venous ulceration
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp_20080459
This paper sets out to investigate the characteristics of two relatively new sensors, the Flexpoint bend sensor <sup xmlns="http://pub2web.metastore.ingenta.com/ns/">®</sup> and the ionic polymeric metal composite (IPMC), for use outside of the clinical setting to monitor the activity of patients who have venous ulceration. Results from testing these sensors show that they achieve consistent results in tests over a range of frequencies, and therefore that it is possible to use them as motion detectors in human movement. (4 pages)The future of medical device procurement
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070522
A collection of slides from the author's seminar presentation is given: This article discusses the future of medical device procurement: the new national procurement process.Quality systems and key performance indicators
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070520
The article consists of a Powerpoint presentation on medical devices quality management systems. The areas discussed include: healthcare standards; key performance indicators; service performance; risk management; and device maintenance profile.Modernising healthcare science careers
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070521
This presentation discusses how to raise the quality of health and healtchcare for the public, patients and service users throughout the UK.Keeping it safe - the professional advisory role
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070519
A powerpoint presentation discussing about professional equipment menagement.How silicon will transform healthcare
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2007.1686
Presented is a series of slides of the author's presentation.Draft standard for risk management of medical devices in networks - an answer to our problems
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2007.1680
Medical device manufacturers' processes and designs are regulated, ensuring that designs meet the required standards before products are sold. When medical devices were used in isolation, these methods gave confidence but those days are gone. Medical devices are frequently combined to create systems. Such systems produce behaviour which the device designers cannot anticipate. Now connection to hospital networks has finally created a recognised crisis with virus attacks, data loss, safety incidents and security breaches. Unregulated "post sales design" is being done in the hospital largely without safety engineering. This paper introduces a new standard that addresses the question "who is the system safety engineer?" for medical devices connected to hospital networks.Design and delivery of medical devices for home-use: drivers and challenges
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2007.1690
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number and types of medical devices used in the home environment by lay-users such as patients and their carers. Apart from an awareness of this increase and growing concern in some areas about the safety and effectiveness of using devices in the home, very little is known in this area. This talk specially attempts to answer two fundamental questions: what factors are driving the move towards the increasing use of medical devices in the home environment, and more importantly, what the challenges are for product developers who want to design and deliver medical devices for the home-use marketplace.Chasing the Holy Grail? - Effective 21st century equipment maintenance
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070518
This presentation discusses modern day maintenance techniques for medical equipments.Draft standard for risk management of medical devices in networks
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070524
The article consists of a Powerpoint presentation on risk management of medical devices in networks. The areas discussed include: network integrators; infrastructure software; inter-operability; system design; system assembly; and configuration management.Security and privacy issues in medical devices - the provider/manufacturer partnership
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2007.1678
A collection of slides discussing the security and privacy issues of biomedical devices. The article also discusses the responsibilities of the manufacturers regarding the matter as well as the concerns of the regulators, and providers.Modeling capacitance relaxation phenomena of malignant membrane in tumor angiogenesis due to vascular endothelial growth factor
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070693
Electrical impedance scanning (EIS) is a new technique in which moderate variations in capacitance values are reflected by the cells of various type of normal membrane. The malignant membrane of vascular endothelial cell in association with VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), in contrast, EIS demonstrates significant capacitance relaxation phenomena concomitant with α-dispersion in the low audio frequency range. The author has endeavoured to establish the above stated phenomena. In this experimental setup, the lipo-protein constituent of the membrane was dissolved in acetone solvent and the interaction of the dissolved lipoprotein in the presence of electrical stimuli in the lower audio frequency range at room temp about 25°C was studied. The capacitance relaxation phenomena concomitant with dispersion in malignant membrane for subjects below and above 50 years has been simulated in MATLAB 6.5. The model incorporates a modified homeostat comprising of homeostat and transduction phase in the feedback path and it represents the interaction of the lipoprotein in malignant membrane associated with α-dispersion mediated through capacitance relaxation phenomena. Results from the output of the model are in close conformity with the capacitance relaxation phenomena which suggest an adjunctive detection modality in the differentiation of membrane malignancy in respect of co- relation of VEGF and α-dispersion established by authors.Medical devices and patient safety
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070516
The article consists of a Powerpoint presentation on medical devices and patient safety. The paper concludes that medical incidents are frequent, serious incidents with medical devices are relatively infrequent, However, one serious injury or death is one too many we must do all we can to prevent such incidents.Electrical safety testing: standards and recommendations
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20070523
A collection of slides from the author's seminar presentation is given: This paper discusses the current standards for electrical safety testing for medical equipments, and their recommendations.Balanced antipodal Vivaldi antenna for breast cancer detection
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2007.1262
A new ultra-wideband antenna for tissue sensing adaptive radar system is presented in this paper. The antenna is based on a balanced antipodal Vivaldi design. The measurements showed that the antenna has better that -10 dB return loss above 2.4 GHz. Simulation indicated that the antennas is capable of sending very short pulses with fidelity above 0.96 at a distance of 20 mm and up to 0.994 further away from the antenna aperture. 70% of the accepted energy is radiated in the endfire direction with a beamwidth of 34 mm by 44 mm on a plane 20 mm away. (5 pages)Biomedical voluntary work on a hospital ship
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2006.0662
The Mercy Ships is a Christian charity, which operates a fleet of hospital ships to provide free world-class health care services to the poor living in developing countries. I travelled to meet the Anastasis Mercy Ship when it was docked in Cotonou, Benin, West Africa to work as a volunteer biomedical technician for two weeks (12<sup xmlns="http://pub2web.metastore.ingenta.com/ns/">th</sup> to 26<sup xmlns="http://pub2web.metastore.ingenta.com/ns/">th</sup> February 2005). The Anastasis has a well-equipped hospital on board with three operating theatres and a large ward. Procedures such as cataract removal, WF (Vesico-vaginal fistula) surgery, cleft lip surgery and tumour removal are performed there. The aim of my visit was to assess the medical equipment on board and carry out repairs or maintenance. I was also to advise on their medical equipment inventory and look at their equipment management processes. The amount of medical equipment on board seemed to be satisfactory for the clinical need but had been subject to more than usual wear and tear due to sailing, water leaks and power failures. I suggested increasing the level of preventive maintenance to reduce the risk of failures mid-mission. For electrical safety I proposed steps to reduce the electrical risks to patients, staff and other equipment. I serviced the anaesthetic machines and checked and repaired equipment in theatres and the ward. I condemned some of the older equipment and suggested concentrating on obtaining donations of the same models as the remaining fleet. For the future I would like to see the Mercy Ships develop a strong biomedical support team based with their new ship, the Africa Mercy, so that medical missions can run safely and smoothly. Such a team would then have great potential to serve local hospitals by offering technical support and training.'How to manage' series for healthcare technology
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2006.0660
Up until now there have been limited resources written for healthcare provider organizations that detail the daily healthcare technology management procedures at health facility and health authority level. Now a series of six guides has been produced through collaboration between researchers in Europe, international bodies, and reviewers from many developing countries, in order to identify best practice in this field. The wide target audience and broad subject matter was a difficult brief, and innovative writing, editing and design strategies were required to successfully fulfil it.Convergence of technologies in development of micro- electrokinetic devices for biomedical applications
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic_20060441
The article consists of a Powerpoint presentation on development of micro-electrokinetic devices for biomedical applications. The areas discussed include: micro-electro-mechanical systems; bioMEMS technology; biochip; fluidics; lab-on-chip devices; electroosmosis; cell electromanipulation; dielectrophoresis CMOS chip; cell therapy and diagnosis; and cell isolation challenge; etc. etc.Exploring natural progression of health-related uses of mobile phones: an Egyptian case study
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2006.0668
The expansion of mobile phone networks and services to developing countries presents a strategic opportunity for the health sector to maximize the contribution of the technology to meeting health objectives. Mobile phones were first introduced to Egypt in 1997, in the past few years the number of subscribers has climbed to 14 million, representing 20 percent of the country's population. Along with increased access to fixed-line telephone services and emergency wireless systems, mobile phones are changing how health services are accessed by Egyptians as well as how they are coordinated. This paper explores the natural progression of mobile phone use for health in rural and urban communities in Minia Governorate, Egypt with the objective of informing projects and policies aimed at the formal integration within the health sector.Vision 2020 technology for eye care services in developing countries
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/ic.2006.0654
There are 37 million blind people in the world (WHO 2002), 90% of whom live in developing countries. 75% of blindness is avoidable and half of avoidable blindness is due to cataract, for which the only intervention is surgical. This fact alone indicates the importance of ophthalmic technology in the fight against unnecessary blindness. In 1999 Vision 2020: The Right to Sight was launched by the WHO and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness with the aim of eliminating avoidable blindness by the year 2020. The Vision 2020 Technology Working Group has been set up to encourage the development and promote the use of high quality but affordable equipment and consumables for eye care. The Group includes representatives of the NGOs supporting eye care in developing countries, manufacturers committed to making high quality but affordable items, and ophthalmic personnel the end users. Achievements to date include: (1) Bulk purchasing of consumables such as intra-ocular lenses to reduce costs. (2) A purchasing and distribution centre in Hong Kong for high quality low vision devices. (3) Development of equipment maintenance training. This was originally pioneered in Inda and has been successfully transferred to Africa & the Caribbean (4) Global Standard List of Equipment for a Vision 2020 District Eye Care Service Unit. By working together the Technology Group members aim to improve the access to information about and the availability of robust, affordable, high quality ophthalmic supplies essential for the achievement of the objectives of Vision 2020.Wavelet filter evaluation for HRV signal processing
http://dl-live.theiet.org/content/conferences/10.1049/cp_20060360
All of wavelet functions are designed for a particular form of dynamics, therefore, a choice of one particular function may not be appropriate to capture heart rate variability (HRV) dynamics. The aim of this paper is to examine a set of wavelet functions (wavelets) for implementation in HRV analysis and to highlight the benefit of this transform relating to today's methods. The basis functions of the wavelet transforms should be able to represent HRV signal feature locally and adapt to slow and fast variations of the signal. This paper discusses the important features of wavelet transform in heart rate variability analysis, including the extent to which the limitations of nonparametric methods like data stationarity and detection of transient episodes can be do away with. The effects of different wavelet functions and their order are assessed and the Daubechies (DW-3) has been proposed as most suitable basis on the basis of performance of various basis and their orders under supine resting and deep-breathing test. (4 pages)