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The aim of this study was to examine the influence of uncertainty of the material properties of brain tissue on the probabilistic voltage response and the probabilistic volume of tissue activated (VTA) in a volume conductor model of deep brain stimulation. To quantify the uncertainties of the desired quantities without changing the deterministic model, a nonintrusive projection method was used by approximating these quantities by a polynomial expansion on a multidimensional basis known as polynomial chaos. The coefficients of this expansion were computed with a multidimensional quadrature on sparse Smolyak grids. The deterministic model combines a finite element model based on a digital brain atlas and a multicompartmental model of mammalian nerve fibers. The material properties of brain tissue were modeled as uniform random parameters using data from several experimental studies. Different magnitudes of uncertainty in the material properties were computed to allow predictions on the resulting uncertainties in the desired quantities. The results showed a major contribution of the uncertainties in the electrical conductivity values of brain tissue on the voltage response as well as on the predicted VTA, while the influence of the uncertainties in the relative permittivity was negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, we present a new approach for the enhancement of the bone proliferation rate by electrostimulation in the acetabular region. Based on the complex tissue structure in this area, the electric field distributions were computed by numerical means using a model based on high-resolution computed tomography scans of the acetabular area. This results in a complex, nonlinear, and discrete optimization problem. Therefore, an adapted algorithm was developed to reduce the computational effort in the order of several magnitudes. We divided the procedure into two stages: data extraction and a subsequent optimization process. The used optimization algorithm utilizes an evolutionary concept and a multidimensional definition of optimality for different, partly contradictive objective functions. Finally, we present first optimization results for different stimulation situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimulated by epidemiological studies about persons living under power lines, it seemed to be of broad interest to also perform field simulations with detailed models of the human body in the extremely low frequency range in order to study field effects of power lines and other 50-Hz equipment. As a basis, we chose the finite integration formulation for electroquasistatics. A new code was implemented allowing for the use of the HUGO model of the human body, a computer data set based on the Visible Human Data Set, produced by the National Library of Medicine, MD, in connection with the orientation data set for muscle fibers in the human body by F. B. Sachse. The finite integration formulation had to be extended to allow for material tensors as they arise for the anisotropic muscle tissue described by the orientation data set. The paper describes the model and shows some results for typical situations from real life comparing the isotropic with the anisotropic model of the human body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eddy currents' distribution is investigated during a transient process in a superconducting magnet system. We have applied a numerical method based on an integral approach. In such a method, only the coils of the magnet system without the. air embedding are discretized. Such integral approach leads to the full matrices and consequentially to large computational requirements. There are techniques, which generate less dense matrices by introducing groups of long-range interactions. We have applied a similar technique based on equivalent currents in the coils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that introduced an algebraic multigrid (AMG) preconditioner for complex symmetric system matrices in relation to the field of magnetics. Application of Krylov subspace methods in assessing the proposed model; Comparison of results with the standard Jacobi-preconditioner; Suggestions regarding the optimal quality of the AMG preconditioner; Calls for further improvement of the model.

Focuses on a study which used the coupled S-parameter calculation (CSC) to determine the scattering properties of complex radio frequency structures. Scenarios in which the approach may be advantageous; Background on the theory; Discussion on implementational aspects; Applications of CSC.

Abstract. This paper presents results on the computation of Higher Order Modes (shortly HOMs) in the designs for the accelerating structures which have already been built in into the TESLA [1] Test Facility (TTF) or are presently being studied as final design for the TESLA collider. Depending on the complexity of the studied arrangement different computational strategies are followed: 1. the use of commercial software packages like MAFIA [2] or CST Microwave Studio (MWS) [2] on workstations, and 2. a recently implemented tool for Coupled S-Parameter Calculation (CSC) which easily allows to calculate the scattering properties of rf-sections connected to each other with arbitrary topology or to determine eigenmodes of resonating structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 750 MHz PIXE-RFQ (radio-frequency quadrupole), developed and built at CERN, provides 2 MeV protons over a length of one meter for proton-induced X-ray emission analysis (PIXE) of cultural heritage artwork. In this paper, we report low-power rf measurements and tuning of the PIXE-RFQ, which have been completed mid-2020. Using a novel algorithm based on direct measurements of the response matrix, field and frequency could be tuned at the same time in only two steps to satisfying accuracy. Additionally, we report measurements of single modules, quality factors, and coupling strength. In all cases, very good agreement between rf measurement and design values was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Tissue impedance data from the main resource by Gabriel et al. were reanalysed. • An ambiguity in the biophysical interpretation is revealed. • Two interpretations are compared and extensively discussed. • An improved parametric model for the dielectric properties is suggested. The frequency-dependent behaviour of the dielectric properties of biological tissues in the frequency range below 1 kHz has been under debate since the past century. Here, we reanalyse the raw data of the main resource of the dielectric properties of biological tissues in impedance representation. Employing a Kramers-Kronig validity test and parameter estimation techniques, we can describe the data by two physical parametric models that correspond to opposing biophysical interpretations: on the one hand the data can be explained only by intrinsic tissue properties, but on the other hand evidence for electrode-specific effects can be found for all tissues under investigation. The first interpretation would justify the continued use of a parametric model comprising four Cole-Cole dispersions, which describe the dielectric properties from extremely low to very high frequencies. As an alternative that is in accordance with the second interpretation, we suggest to omit the slowest of the four dispersions in the model and increase the static conductivity to account for a frequency-independent conductivity below 1 kHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a robust formulation to address nonlinear equality-constrained and inequality-constrained multi-objective optimization problems for multi-cell accelerating cavities with TESLA-like geometry under consideration of uncertain parameters. We propose to explore a robust approach that employs the polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) to model the uncertainty. For the uncertainty quantification (UQ), the resulting random-dependent eigenvalue problem is solved using the stochastic collocation method (SCM) combined with PCE. As a result, the shape optimization of the studied multi-cell cavity is defined in terms of statistical moments, which serve as the cost functionals in the multi-objective (MO) steepest descent algorithm. Two versions of this method are developed and implemented. Finally, the optimization results and their implications for the operation of a multi-cell cavity are discussed. • Key component of the particle accelerators, i.e., the shape of an accelerating cavity. • Stochastic Maxwell's eigenvalue problem to quantify uncertainty propagation. • Parametric multi-objective shape optimization under uncertainty using a robust formulation. • Lie derivative and shape derivative for continuous robust shape sensitivity. • Two efficient gradient-based approaches to find TESLA-like designs, which are robust against industrial imperfections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large-scale biophysical network model for the isolated striatal body is developed to optimise potential intrastriatal deep brain stimulation applied to, e.g. obsessive-compulsive disorder. The model is based on modified Hodgkin–Huxley equations with small-world connectivity, while the spatial information about the positions of the neurons is taken from a detailed human atlas. The model produces neuronal spatiotemporal activity patterns segregating healthy from pathological conditions. Three biomarkers were used for the optimisation of stimulation protocols regarding stimulation frequency, amplitude and localisation: the mean activity of the entire network, the frequency spectrum of the entire network (rhythmicity) and a combination of the above two. By minimising the deviation of the aforementioned biomarkers from the normal state, we compute the optimal deep brain stimulation parameters, regarding position, amplitude and frequency. Our results suggest that in the DBS optimisation process, there is a clear trade-off between frequency synchronisation and overall network activity, which has also been observed during in vivo studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which focused on the application of the Finite Integration Theory (FIT) to the calculation of static current flow fields and the coupled evaluation of magnetic fields. Methodology; Theoretical background; Semiconductor example.

Sensorineural deafness is caused by the loss of peripheral neural input to the auditory nerve, which may result from peripheral neural degeneration and/or a loss of inner hair cells. Provided spiral ganglion cells and their central processes are patent, cochlear implants can be used to electrically stimulate the auditory nerve to facilitate hearing in the deaf or severely hard-of-hearing. Neural degeneration is a crucial impediment to the functional success of a cochlear implant. The present, first-of-its-kind two-dimensional finite-element model investigates how the depletion of neural tissues might alter the electrically induced transmembrane potential of spiral ganglion neurons. The study suggests that even as little as 10% of neural tissue degeneration could lead to a disproportionate change in the stimulation profile of the auditory nerve. This result implies that apart from encapsulation layer formation around the cochlear implant electrode, tissue degeneration could also be an essential reason for the apparent inconsistencies in the functionality of cochlear implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cartilage regeneration is a clinical challenge. In recent years, hydrogels have emerged as implantable scaffolds in cartilage tissue engineering. Similarly, electrical stimulation has been employed to improve matrix synthesis of cartilage cells, and thus to foster engineering and regeneration of cartilage tissue. The combination of hydrogels and electrical stimulation may pave the way for new clinical treatment of cartilage lesions. To find the optimal electric properties of hydrogels, theoretical considerations and corresponding numerical simulations are needed to identify well-suited initial parameters for experimental studies. We present the theoretical analysis of a hydrogel in a frequently used electrical stimulation device for cartilage regeneration and tissue engineering. By means of equivalent circuits, finite element analysis, and uncertainty quantification, we elucidate the influence of the geometric and dielectric properties of cell-seeded hydrogels on the capacitive-coupling electrical field stimulation. Moreover, we discuss the possibility of cellular organisation inside the hydrogel due to forces generated by the external electric field. The introduced methodology is easily reusable by other researchers and allows to directly develop novel electrical stimulation study designs. Thus, this study paves the way for the design of future experimental studies using electrically conductive hydrogels and electrical stimulation for tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While several studies investigated the effects of mechanical or electrical stimulation on osseointegration and bone fracture healing, little is known about the molecular and cellular impact of combined biophysical stimulation on peri-implant osseointegration. Therefore, we established an in vitro system, capable of applying shear stress and electric fields simultaneously. Capacitively coupled electric fields were used for electrical stimulation, while roughened Ti6Al4V bodies conducted harmonically oscillating micromotions on collagen scaffolds seeded with human osteoblasts. Different variations of single and combined stimulation were applied for three days, while samples loaded with Ti6Al4V bodies and untreated samples served as control. Metabolic activity, expression of osteogenic markers and bone remodeling markers were investigated. While combined stimulation showed no substantial benefit compared to sole mechanical stimulation, we observed that 25 µm micromotions applied by roughened Ti6Al4V bodies led to a significant increase in gene expression of osteocalcin and tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease 1. Additionally, we found an increase in metabolic activity and expression of bone remodeling markers with reduced procollagen type 1 synthesis after 100 mVRMS electrical stimulation. We were able to trigger specific cellular behaviors using different biophysical stimuli. In future studies, different variations of electrical stimulation will be combined with interfacial micromotions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical stimulation of biological samples such as tissues and cell cultures attracts growing attention due to its capability of enhancing cell activity, proliferation, and differentiation. Eventually, a profound knowledge of the underlying mechanisms paves the way for innovative therapeutic devices. Capacitive coupling is one option of delivering electric fields to biological samples that has advantages regarding biocompatibility. However, its biological mechanism of interaction is not well understood. Experimental findings could be related to voltage-gated channels, which are triggered by changes of the transmembrane potential. Numerical simulations by the finite element method provide a possibility to estimate the transmembrane potential. Since a full resolution of the cell membrane within a macroscopic model would lead to prohibitively expensive models, we suggest the adaptation of an approximate finite element method. Starting from a basic 2.5D model, the chosen method is validated and applied to realistic experimental situations. To understand the influence of the dielectric properties on the modelling outcome, uncertainty quantification techniques are employed. A frequency-dependent influence of the uncertain dielectric properties of the cell membrane on the modelling outcome is revealed. This may have practical implications for future experimental studies. Our methodology can be easily adapted for computational studies relying on experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moderate-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss in humans is treatable by electrically stimulating the auditory nerve (AN) with a cochlear implant (CI). In the cochlea, the modiolus presents a porous bony interface between the CI electrode and the AN. New bone growth caused by the presence of the CI electrode or neural degeneration inflicted by ageing or otological diseases might change the effective porosity of the modiolus and, thereby, alter its electrical material properties. Using a volume conductor description of the cochlea, with the aid of a 'mapped conductivity' method and an ad-hoc 'regionally kinetic' equation system, we show that even a slight variation in modiolus porosity or pore distribution can disproportionately affect AN stimulation. Hence, because of porosity changes, an inconsistent CI performance might occur if neural degeneration or new bone growth progress after implantation. Appropriate electrical material properties in accordance with modiolar morphology and pathology should be considered in patient-specific studies. The present first-of-its-kind in-silico study advocates for contextual experimental studies to further explore the utility of modiolus porous morphology in optimising the CI outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Electrical stimulation is used for enhanced bone fracture healing. Electrochemical processes occur during the electrical stimulation at the electrodes and influence cellular reactions. Our approach aimed to distinguish between electrochemical and electric field effects on osteoblast-like MG-63 cells. We applied 20 Hz biphasic pulses via platinum electrodes for 2 h. The electrical stimulation of the cell culture medium and subsequent application to cells was compared to directly stimulated cells. The electric field distribution was predicted using a digital twin. Results: Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed partial electrolysis at the electrodes, which was confirmed by increased concentrations of hydrogen peroxide in the medium. While both direct stimulation and AC-conditioned medium decreased cell adhesion and spreading, only the direct stimulation enhanced the intracellular calcium ions and reactive oxygen species. Conclusion: The electrochemical by-product hydrogen peroxide is not the main contributor to the cellular effects of electrical stimulation. However, undesired effects like decreased adhesion are mediated through electrochemical products in stimulated medium. Detailed characterisation and monitoring of the stimulation set up and electrochemical reactions are necessary to find safe electrical stimulation protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which discussed the solution of Maxwell's equations for time-harmonic fields on triangular, possibly non-orthogonal meshes. Finite integration technique-discretization on a triangular grid; Examples of discretization computations.