scholarly journals Sensitivity to Haptic Sound-Localization Cues at Different Body Locations

Sensors ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (11) ◽  
pp. 3770
Author(s):  
Mark D. Fletcher ◽  
Jana Zgheib ◽  
Samuel W. Perry
Keyword(s):  
Cochlear Implants ◽  
Sound Localization ◽  
Dynamic Range ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Sound Intensity ◽  
Hearing Impaired ◽  
Localization Accuracy ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Intensity Information ◽  
Haptic Stimulation

Cochlear implants (CIs) recover hearing in severely to profoundly hearing-impaired people by electrically stimulating the cochlea. While they are extremely effective, spatial hearing is typically severely limited. Recent studies have shown that haptic stimulation can supplement the electrical CI signal (electro-haptic stimulation) and substantially improve sound localization. In haptic sound-localization studies, the signal is extracted from the audio received by behind-the-ear devices and delivered to each wrist. Localization is achieved using tactile intensity differences (TIDs) across the wrists, which match sound intensity differences across the ears (a key sound localization cue). The current study established sensitivity to across-limb TIDs at three candidate locations for a wearable haptic device, namely: the lower tricep and the palmar and dorsal wrist. At all locations, TID sensitivity was similar to the sensitivity to across-ear intensity differences for normal-hearing listeners. This suggests that greater haptic sound-localization accuracy than previously shown can be achieved. The dynamic range was also measured and far exceeded that available through electrical CI stimulation for all of the locations, suggesting that haptic stimulation could provide additional sound-intensity information. These results indicate that an effective haptic aid could be deployed for any of the candidate locations, and could offer a low-cost, non-invasive means of improving outcomes for hearing-impaired listeners.

Effects of Coordinated Compression and Pinna Compensation Features on Horizontal Localization Performance in Hearing Aid Users

2015 ◽  
Vol 26 (01) ◽  
pp. 080-092 ◽  
Author(s):  
Petri Korhonen ◽  
Chi Lau ◽  
Francis Kuk ◽  
Denise Keenan ◽  
Jennifer Schumacher
Keyword(s):  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Horizontal Plane ◽  
Dynamic Range ◽  
Hearing Aid ◽  
Hearing Impaired ◽  
Localization Accuracy ◽  
Repeated Measures Design ◽  
Dynamic Range Compression ◽  
Data Collection And Analysis ◽  
Localization Performance

Background: Hearing-impaired listeners localize sounds better unaided than aided. Wide dynamic range compression circuits operating independently at each ear in bilateral fittings, and microphone positions of different hearing aid styles, have been cited as a reason. Two hearing aid features, inter-ear coordinated compression (IE) and pinna compensation (PC), were developed to mitigate the compromised aided localization performance. Purpose: This study examined the effect of IE and PC on aided localization performance in the horizontal plane with hearing-impaired listeners. Research Design: A single-blind, repeated-measures design was used. Study Sample: A total of 10 experienced hearing aid users with bilaterally symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss who had previously participated in localization training were evaluated. Data Collection and Analysis: Localization performance was measured using 12 loudspeakers spaced 30° apart on the horizontal plane. Aided performance was evaluated using a behind-the-ear hearing aid at four settings: omnidirectional microphone (Omni), Omni microphone with the PC feature, Omni microphone with IE, and Omni microphone with the PC feature and IE together. In addition, unaided localization performance was measured. Results: Significant improvement in the localization accuracy was measured for sounds arriving from the back when comparing the PC with the Omni conditions. The use of IE reduced the magnitude of errors for some listeners for sounds originating from ±90°. The average reduction in the errors was 7.3°. Conclusions: This study confirmed that the use of the PC feature improved localization for sounds arriving from behind the listener. The use of IE may improve localization for some listeners for sounds arriving from the sides.

Implantable hearing interfaces

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Torsten Lehmann ◽  
André van Schaik
Keyword(s):  
Cochlear Implants ◽  
Neural Activity ◽  
Dynamic Range ◽  
Systems Design ◽  
Fundamental Operation ◽  
Profound Hearing Loss ◽  
Biomedical Implant ◽  
Dynamic Range Compression ◽  
Hearing Function ◽  
Key Aspects

The chapter Implantable hearing interfaces describes the fundamental operation of a commonly available biohybrid system, the cochlear implant, or bionic ear. This neuro-stimulating biomedical implant is very successful in restoring hearing function to people with profound hearing loss. The fundamental operation of the biological cochlea is described and parallels are drawn between key aspects of the biological system and the biohybrid implementation: dynamic range compression, translation of sound to neural activity, and tonotopic mapping. Critical considerations are discussed for simultaneously meeting biological, surgical, and engineering restrictions in successful biohybrid systems design. Finally, challenges in present and future cochlear implants are outlined and directions of current research given.

scholarly journals The grades and freshness assessment of eggs based on density detection using machine vision and weighing sensor

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Supakorn Harnsoongnoen ◽  
Nuananong Jaroensuk
Keyword(s):  
Machine Vision ◽  
Vision System ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Measuring System ◽  
Coefficient Of Determination ◽  
Water Displacement ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Future Potential ◽  
Non Destructive ◽  
Egg Freshness

AbstractThe water displacement and flotation are two of the most accurate and rapid methods for grading and assessing freshness of agricultural products based on density determination. However, these techniques are still not suitable for use in agricultural inspections of products such as eggs that absorb water which can be considered intrusive or destructive and can affect the result of measurements. Here we present a novel proposal for a method of non-destructive, non-invasive, low cost, simple and real—time monitoring of the grading and freshness assessment of eggs based on density detection using machine vision and a weighing sensor. This is the first proposal that divides egg freshness into intervals through density measurements. The machine vision system was developed for the measurement of external physical characteristics (length and breadth) of eggs for evaluating their volume. The weighing system was developed for the measurement of the weight of the egg. Egg weight and volume were used to calculate density for grading and egg freshness assessment. The proposed system could measure the weight, volume and density with an accuracy of 99.88%, 98.26% and 99.02%, respectively. The results showed that the weight and freshness of eggs stored at room temperature decreased with storage time. The relationship between density and percentage of freshness was linear for the all sizes of eggs, the coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9982, 0.9999, 0.9996, 0.9996 and 0.9994 for classified egg size classified 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. This study shows that egg freshness can be determined through density without using water to test for water displacement or egg flotation which has future potential as a measuring system important for the poultry industry.

scholarly journals POS1388 ULTRASOUND FOR PANNICULITIS

2021 ◽  
Vol 80 (Suppl 1) ◽  
pp. 977.1-977
Author(s):  
A. Potapova ◽  
O. Egorova ◽  
O. Alekseeva ◽  
A. Volkov ◽  
S. Radenska-Lopovok
Keyword(s):  
Dynamic Range ◽  
Subcutaneous Fat ◽  
Diagnostic Value ◽  
High Energy ◽  
Contralateral Side ◽  
Imaging Method ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
M 12

Background:Ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive and safe imaging method that allows in vivo differentiation of the morphological structures of subcutaneous fat (SCF) tissue in in normal and pathology.Objectives:Reveal features of ultrasound changes in SCF in panniculitis (Pn).Methods:57 patients (f – 45, m - 12) aged 18 - 67 years with an initial diagnosis of erythema nodosum and a disease duration of 3.6 ± 1.4 years were examined. In addition to the general clinical examination, a computed tomography of the chest organs and a pathomorphological examination of a skin biopsy from the site of the node were performed. Ultrasound was performed on a MyLabTwice apparatus (ESAOTE, Italy) using a multi-frequency linear transducer (10-18 MHz) with the PD technique, the parameters of which were adapted for recording low-speed flows (PRF 300-600 Hz, low filter, dynamic range - 20-40 dB), the presence of vascularization was assessed not only in the affected area, but also on the contralateral side using high-energy Doppler.Results:33 patients were diagnosed with septal Pn (SPn), 24 - lobular Pn (LPn). In all cases, the diagnosis was verified by histological examination. Ultrasound made it possible to assess the thickness, echoicity and vascularization of the SCF. In 35 patients, significant thickening of the SCF was revealed (as compared to the contralateral side), of which in 14 cases with SPn, in 21 - with LPn. Significant diffuse thickening of the SCF with the contralateral side was observed in 18 patients, incl. in 12 (66%) patients with LPn. Limited thickening was more typical for SPn (73%). A significant increase in the echoicity of the SCF was noted in all forms of Pn. A “lobular” echo pattern with an anechogenic environment was observed in 25 patients, of which 18 (72%) had LPn. An increase in vascularization compared to the contralateral side was recorded in 30 cases (SPn-17, LPn-13).Conclusion:The obtained preliminary results indicate the important role of ultrasound in assessing the depth and prevalence of the inflammatory process at Pn. To clarify the diagnostic value of this method, further studies are needed on a larger sample of patients.Disclosure of Interests:None declared

scholarly journals New Compact Wearable Metamaterials Circular Patch Antennas for IoT, Medical and 5G Applications

2020 ◽  
Vol 3 (4) ◽  
pp. 42
Author(s):  
Albert Sabban
Keyword(s):  
Communication Systems ◽  
Dynamic Range ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Patch Antennas ◽  
Antenna Feed ◽  
Circular Patch ◽  
Wearable Antenna ◽  
Wearable Antennas ◽  
Feed Network ◽  
Line Design

The development of compact passive and active wearable circular patch metamaterials antennas for communication, Internet of Things (IoT) and biomedical systems is presented in this paper. Development of compact efficient low-cost wearable antennas are one of the most significant challenges in development of wearable communication, IoT and medical systems. Moreover, the advantage of an integrated compact low-cost feed network is attained by integrating the antenna feed network with the antennas on the same printed board. The efficiency of communication systems may be increased by using efficient passive and active antennas. The system dynamic range may be improved by connecting amplifiers to the printed antenna feed line. Design, design considerations, computed and measured results of wearable circular patch meta-materials antennas with high efficiency for 5G, IoT and biomedical applications are presented in this paper. The circular patch antennas electrical parameters on the human body were analyzed by using commercial full-wave software. The circular patch metamaterial wearable antennas are compact and flexible. The directivity and gain of the antennas with Circular Split-Ring Resonators (CSRR) is higher by 2.5dB to 3dB than the antennas without CSRR. The resonant frequency of the antennas without CSRR is higher by 6% to 9% than the antennas with CSRR. The computed and measured bandwidth of the stacked circular patch wearable antenna with CSRR for IoT and medical applications is around 12%, for S11 lover than −6dB. The gain of the circular patch wearable antenna with CSRR is around 8dBi.

Sound Localization Ability of Young Children With Bilateral Cochlear Implants

2007 ◽  
Vol 28 (4) ◽  
pp. 479-485 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jan-Willem Beijen ◽  
Ad F. M. Snik ◽  
Emmanuel A. M. Mylanus
Keyword(s):  
Young Children ◽  
Cochlear Implants ◽  
Sound Localization ◽  
Bilateral Cochlear Implants ◽  
Localization Ability

Micromolding Fabrication of Biocompatible Dry Micro-Pyramid Array Electrodes for Wearable Biopotential Monitoring

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marco Vinicio Alban ◽  
Haechang Lee ◽  
Hanul Moon ◽  
Seunghyup Yoo
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Skin Irritation ◽  
Electrode Impedance ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Solution Processes ◽  
Dry Electrodes ◽  
Array Electrode ◽  
Low Cost Manufacturing ◽  
Electromyography Signals

Abstract Thin dry electrodes are promising components in wearable healthcare devices. Assessing the condition of the human body by monitoring biopotentials facilitates the early diagnosis of diseases as well as their prevention, treatment, and therapy. Existing clinical-use electrodes have limited wearable-device usage because they use gels, require preparation steps, and are uncomfortable to wear. While dry electrodes can improve these issues and have demonstrated performance on par with gel-based electrodes, providing advantages in mobile and wearable applications; the materials and fabrication methods used are not yet at the level of disposable gel electrodes for low-cost mass manufacturing and wide adoption. Here, a low-cost manufacturing process for thin dry electrodes with a conductive micro-pyramidal array is presented for large-scale on-skin wearable applications. The electrode is fabricated using micromolding techniques in conjunction with solution processes in order to guarantee ease of fabrication, high device yield, and the possibility of mass production compatible with current semiconductor production processes. Fabricated using a conductive paste and an epoxy resin that are both biocompatible, the developed micro-pyramidal array electrode operates in a conformal, non-invasive manner, with low skin irritation, which ensures improved comfort for brief or extended use. The operation of the developed electrode was examined by analyzing electrode-skin-electrode impedance, electroencephalography, electrocardiography, and electromyography signals and comparing them with those measured simultaneously using gel electrodes.

Non-invasive intelligent monitoring system for fault detection in induction motor based on bio piezoelectric sensor using ANN

2022 ◽  
Author(s):  
Massine GANA ◽  
Hakim ACHOUR ◽  
Kamel BELAID ◽  
Zakia CHELLI ◽  
Mourad LAGHROUCHE ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Neural Network ◽  
Artificial Neural Network ◽  
Induction Motor ◽  
Vibration Analysis ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Piezoelectric Sensor ◽  
Integrated System ◽  
Easy Access ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Artificial Neural

Abstract This paper presents a design of a low-cost integrated system for the preventive detection of unbalance faults in an induction motor. In this regard, two non-invasive measurements have been collected then monitored in real time and transmitted via an ESP32 board. A new bio-flexible piezoelectric sensor developed previously in our laboratory, was used for vibration analysis. Moreover an infrared thermopile was used for non-contact temperature measurement. The data is transmitted via Wi-Fi to a monitoring station that intervenes to detect an anomaly. The diagnosis of the motor condition is realized using an artificial neural network algorithm implemented on the microcontroller. Besides, a Kalman filter is employed to predict the vibrations while eliminating the noise. The combination of vibration analysis, thermal signature analysis and artificial neural network provides a better diagnosis. It ensures efficiency, accuracy, easy access to data and remote control, which significantly reduces human intervention.

scholarly journals Method for auxiliary use of thermography in diagnosing inflammation in the coxofemoral joint in dogs

2018 ◽  
Vol 39 (4) ◽  
pp. 1565
Author(s):  
Fernanda Lúcia Passos Fukahori ◽  
Daniela Maria Bastos de Souza ◽  
Eduardo Alberto Tudury ◽  
George Chaves Jimenez ◽  
José Ferreira da Silva Neto ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Emission ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Joint Inflammation ◽  
Domestic Animals ◽  
The Body ◽  
Joint Diseases ◽  
Infrared Images ◽  
Infrared Thermometry ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Sensitivity Specificity

Joint diseases are relatively common in domestic animals, such as dogs. The involved inflammation produces thermal emission, which can be imaged using specific sensors that allow capturing of infrared images. Given that there have been few reports on the use of thermography in the diagnosis of inflammation associated with diseases of the hip joint in dogs, we here propose a method for identification of inflammatory foci in dogs by using infrared thermometry. The present study aimed to find non-invasive and low-cost resources that couldfacilitate a clinical diagnosis in cases withinflammation in the coxofemoral joint of dogs.To this end, we developed a system in whichthe Flir Systems TG165 thermograph is coupled to a black PVC cannula with a 30-cm focus-to-animal distance.External effects of the environment on the temperature of the animalswere compared with the body temperature as measured by a conventional thermometer.Thirty-one dogs with and without inflammation in the coxofemoral joint underwent clinical evaluation.We verified that the temperature registered by the thermograph inthe animals with joint inflammation was significantlydifferentfrom that incontrol animals without inflammation, in the lateral projection.The method showed a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 87.5%, and accuracy of 83.87%. This standardized method of diagnosis of inflammatory foci in the coxofemoral articulation of dogs by way of thermography showed sensitivity, specificity, and satisfactory accuracy.

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