Real-Time Endomicroscopic Image Mosaicking with an EKF-based Sensor Fusion Approach.

This study presents a real-time sensor fusion framework based on the extended Kalman filter (EKF) for accurate and robust endomicroscopic image mosaicking. The sensor fusion framework incorporates an optical tracking system that can track 6-DOF pose of the imaging probe with high accuracy in real time in conjunction with 2D local image registration from image feature matching between two consecutive frames. We evaluated the performance of the real-time image mosaicking based on the sensor fusion compared with the image or tracker only approach.

Pose Tracking of Supermicrosurgical Robot Towards Multi-User Teleoperation.

This paper presents pose tracking experiments using a supermicrosurgical robot designed to consider teleoperation with multiple surgeons. Currently, existing supermicrosurgical robots assist only the primary surgeon. However, both primary and assistant surgeons need a high-precision motion for critical tasks that can easily damage microtissue.

In Vivo Cellular-Level 3D Imaging of Peripheral Nerves Using a Dual-Focusing Technique for Intra-Neural Interface Implantation.

In vivo volumetric imaging of the microstructural changes of peripheral nerves with an inserted electrode could be key for solving the chronic implantation failure of an intra-neural interface necessary to provide amputated patients with natural motion and sensation. Thus far, no imaging devices can provide a cellular-level three-dimensional (3D) structural images of a peripheral nerve in vivo. In this study, an optical coherence tomography-based peripheral nerve imaging platform that employs a newly proposed depth of focus extension technique is reported.

Hydrogel-Assisted Electrospinning for Fabrication of a 3D Complex Tailored Nanofiber Macrostructure.

Electrospinning has shown great potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine due to a high surface-area-to-volume ratio and an extracellular matrix-mimicking structure of electrospun nanofibers, but the fabrication of a complex three-dimensional (3D) macroscopic configuration with electrospun nanofibers remains challenging. In the present study, we developed a novel hydrogel-assisted electrospinning process (GelES) to fabricate a 3D nanofiber macrostructure with a 3D complex but tailored configuration by utilizing a 3D hydrogel structure as a grounded collector instead of a metal collector in conventional electrospinning. The 3D hydrogel collector was discovered to effectively concentrate the electric field toward itself similar to the metal collector, thereby depositing electrospun nanofibers directly on its exterior surface.

One-step Implantation of a 3D Neural Microelectrode Array.

This paper presents a neurosurgical device called NEIT 2 (Nerve Electrode Insertion Tool) to implant a 3D microelectrode array into a peripheral nervous system. Using an elastomer-made nerve holder, the device is able to stable target a flexible nerve, and then safely inserts an electrode array into the fixed nerve. Finally, a nerve containment assembly is made at once.

Electrohydraulic Actuator for a Soft Gripper.

There is a considerable demand to develop robots that can perform sophisticated tasks such as grabbing delicate materials, passing through narrow pathways, and acting as mediators between humans and robots. Soft robots can provide a solution for such applications. In this study, we propose an electrohydraulic gripper, which is based on electrostatic and hydraulic forces.

A Pilot Study On The Novel Non-Invasive Nerve-Holder With Negative-Pressure Suctions.

In performing neurosurgical operation on peripheral nervous system, the most important first step is to robustly hold the target nerve, since the nerve-holding stability and reliability significantly affect the result of surgical operation. However it is not straightforward to robustly hold peripheral nerve during the surgical operation, because the peripheral nerve is too flexible and slippery. In this study, we design a novel peripheral nerve-holder that can be used for the neurosurgical operation.

Exposure of kale root to NaCl and NaSeO increases isothiocyanate levels and Nrf2 signalling without reducing plant root growth.

A plant factory is a closed cultivation system that provides a consistent and modified environment for plant growth. We speculated that treatment of kale (Brassica oleracea) grown in a plant factory with NaCl, NaSeO, or both would increase the bioactive phytochemical levels including glucosinolates (GLSs) and isothiocyanates (ITCs), the key molecules in cancer prevention. The kale was harvested and analysed after treatment with NaCl and NaSeO alone or in combination for 1 or 2 weeks.

A standardized extract of Rhynchosia volubilis Lour. exerts a protective effect on benzalkonium chloride-induced mouse dry eye model.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: In contrast to other leguminous plants generally used as food, Rhynchosia volubilis Loureiro, a small soybean with a black seed coat, has been used as a traditional oriental remedy for various human diseases in Eastern Asia. In this study, we demonstrated the protective effect of R. volubilis against dry eye disease.

A handheld device for magnetically inserting a neural interface into a peripheral nervous system.

This paper proposes a compact handheld device for magnetically inserting a neural interface into a peripheral nervous system (PNS). Users can pull and hold a flexible peripheral nerve (e.g.

Stellera chamaejasme and its constituents induce cutaneous wound healing and anti-inflammatory activities.

Stellera chamaejasme L. (Thymelaeaceae) is a perennial herb that is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat tumours, tuberculosis and psoriasis. S.