Real-Time Tool Localization for Laparoscopic Surgery Using Convolutional Neural Network.

Partially automated robotic systems, such as camera holders, represent a pivotal step towards enhancing efficiency and precision in surgical procedures. Therefore, this paper introduces an approach for real-time tool localization in laparoscopy surgery using convolutional neural networks. The proposed model, based on two Hourglass modules in series, can localize up to two surgical tools simultaneously.

Tackling Post-COVID-19 Rehabilitation Challenges: A Pilot Clinical Trial Investigating the Role of Robotic-Assisted Hand Rehabilitation.

Prolonged hospitalization in severe COVID-19 cases can lead to substantial muscle loss and functional deterioration. While rehabilitation is essential, conventional approaches face capacity challenges. Therefore, evaluating the effectiveness of robotic-assisted rehabilitation for patients with post-COVID-19 fatigue syndrome to enhance both motor function and overall recovery holds paramount significance.

Interaction with a Hand Rehabilitation Exoskeleton in EMG-Driven Bilateral Therapy: Influence of Visual Biofeedback on the Users' Performance.

The effectiveness of EMG biofeedback with neurorehabilitation robotic platforms has not been previously addressed. The present work evaluates the influence of an EMG-based visual biofeedback on the user performance when performing EMG-driven bilateral exercises with a robotic hand exoskeleton. Eighteen healthy subjects were asked to perform 1-min randomly generated sequences of hand gestures (rest, open and close) in four different conditions resulting from the combination of using or not (1) EMG-based visual biofeedback and (2) kinesthetic feedback from the exoskeleton movement.

Assessment of the Patient's Emotional Response with the RobHand Rehabilitation Platform: A Case Series Study.

Cerebrovascular accidents have physical, cognitive and emotional effects. During rehabilitation, the main focus is placed on motor recovery, yet the patient's emotional state should also be considered. For this reason, validating robotic rehabilitation systems should not only focus on their effectiveness related to the physical recovery but also on the patient's emotional response.

Teachers' Well-Being, Emotions, and Motivation During Emergency Remote Teaching Due to COVID-19.

This study explores the effects of the shift to emergency remote teaching (ERT) on teachers' levels of well-being, emotions, and motivation. A total of 936 Spanish teachers participated in this nationwide survey from all educational levels, thus allowing comparison among levels, which is a novelty and strength of our study. Four aspects were explored: (1) instructional adaptation to ERT; (2) well-being changes and the main challenges in this regard; (3) changes in emotions; and (4) changes in motivation and the main factors.

Applying wearable solutions in dependent environments.

This paper proposes a multiagent system (MAS) that uses smart wearable devices and mobile technology for the care of patients in a geriatric home care facility. The system is based on an advanced ZigBee wireless sensor network (WSN) and includes location and identification microchips installed in patient clothing and caregiver uniforms. The use of radio-frequency identification and near-field communication technologies allows remote monitoring of patients, and makes it possible for them to receive treatment according to preventive medical protocol.