Electrode Array (electrode + array)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences


Selected Abstracts


Disposable Gold Electrode Array for Simultaneous Electrochemical Studies

ELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 1 2008
Graciela Priano
Abstract An efficient and inexpensive eight gold electrode array has been manufactured by a combination of screen printing and gold electrodeposition techniques. Gold electrodeposition was performed in potentiostatic and galvanostatic conditions. Different treatments, involving temperature and polishing control, led to electrodes with different roughness. The electrochemical behavior of the generated gold surface was studied by cyclic voltammetry showing the characteristic response of polycrystalline gold, in contrast with disposable gold electrodes fabricated by screen printing from gold inks. The electrodes were chemically modified through the adsorption of alkanethiols self-assembled monolayers and the coupling of a model protein. Both reactions were followed by cyclic voltammetry and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The electrodes have shown high reproducibility in their electrochemical behavior as well as in their modifications. [source]


Intraoperative Assessment of an Implantable Electrode Array for Cavernous Nerve Stimulation

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 8 2008
Arthur L. Burnett
ABSTRACT Introduction., Erectile dysfunction remains a major functional complication of radical prostatectomy in the modern era despite surgical techniques to preserve the penile autonomic nerve supply. Aim., To develop and evaluate a neurostimulation system for cavernous nerve electrical stimulation for future use as a chronic implantation device that neurotrophically promotes erectile function recovery following radical prostatectomy. Method., After radical retropubic prostatectomy, the neurovascular bundle was stimulated using a temporarily placed electrode array of an implantable neurostimulation system (20 Hz frequency, 260 µ seconds pulse width, 5 mA,60 mA amplitude up to 10 minutes), and penile circumference increases were measured. Main Outcome Measure., Increase in penile circumference. Results., Among 12 men (mean age 60.3 years) enrolled in this study, 6 (50%) demonstrated measurable increases in penile circumference in response to cavernous nerve stimulation. Among these six men, the mean increase was 5.0 mm (range 1.6 mm to 7.0 mm). Temporary surgical placement of the device was done with relative ease, and there was no evidence of injury to the neurovascular bundle. Conclusions., A chronic implantable nerve stimulation system for cavernous nerve stimulation having possible neuromodulatory effects on the recovery of penile erections after radical prostatectomy is feasible. Burnett AL, Teloken PE, Briganti A, Whitehurst T, and Montorsi F. Intraoperative assessment of an implantable electrode array for cavernous nerve stimulation. J Sex Med 2008;5:1949,1954. [source]


Implantation of the Ossified Cochlea: Management with the Split Electrode Array

THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 12 2005
D A. Millar BS
Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: To describe indications for, the surgical technique required, and the expected functional results of split electrode array cochlear implants. Study Design: Retrospective chart review. Methods: Data collected included etiology of deafness, radiographic findings, pre- and postoperative aided pure tone thresholds, and speech perception testing. Adult speech perception outcomes were measured using the Consonant Nucleus Consonant (CNC) monosyllable words and Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) in quiet/noise (+10dB). The children were assessed using the Infants and Toddlers Meaningful Auditory Integration Scale. Results: Five patients were implanted with a split electrode array. This included two adults and three children. Both adults had preoperative binaural aided pure tone averages worse than 50d B and scores of 0% on both HINT quiet and CNC words. The children had undetectable preoperative aided thresholds and scored an average 4/40 on the IT-MAIS. Postimplant, the average threshold gain was 38.5 dB in the adults and 81.5 dB in the children. One adult improved to score 51%/22% on HINT quiet/noise at 6 months and 72%/30% at 12 months. The other adult continued to score 0% on HINT at 12 months but claimed substantial subjective auditory improvement after the first year of device use. The children averaged 28/40 on the IT MAIS at 6 months after implantation. Forty-two of 48 implanted electrodes were functional. Conclusions: The split electrode array is a useful alternative to traditional cochlear implants in treating deafened patients with cochlear ossification. Patients implanted with the split array show marked improvement in sound and speech perception. [source]


Stripping Voltammetry at Microdisk Electrode Arrays: Theory

ELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 24 2009

Abstract Anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) is an extremely powerful tool for detection of metal ions in solution through a two step process of preconcentration of the metal at the electrode surface, followed by electrodissolution. The second phase produces an electroanalytical response proportional to the amount of material deposited in the first phase. This paper utilizes theory to explore the electrochemical signals produced when considering ASV at a microelectrode or ultramicroelectrode arrays. The theory outlined is applicable mostly to thin mercury film absorption and metal adsorption. [source]


Transparent diamond-on-glass micro-electrode arrays for ex-vivo neuronal study

PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (A) APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, Issue 9 2008
M. Bonnauron
Abstract We report on the fabrication of high aspect ratio diamond Micro Electrode Arrays (MEAs) grown on silicon as well as on glass substrates using an optimised nanoseeding technique and Bias Enhanced Nucleation (BEN). Such MEA systems combine high electrode reactivity and high electrical current injection limits with resiliency, biocompatibility and optical transparency of diamond surfaces. We present the technological steps for the fabrication of 2D as well as 3D diamond microelectrode arrays. The patterning issues involve the use of detonation nanodiamond particles (DND). (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]


Disposable Gold Electrode Array for Simultaneous Electrochemical Studies

ELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 1 2008
Graciela Priano
Abstract An efficient and inexpensive eight gold electrode array has been manufactured by a combination of screen printing and gold electrodeposition techniques. Gold electrodeposition was performed in potentiostatic and galvanostatic conditions. Different treatments, involving temperature and polishing control, led to electrodes with different roughness. The electrochemical behavior of the generated gold surface was studied by cyclic voltammetry showing the characteristic response of polycrystalline gold, in contrast with disposable gold electrodes fabricated by screen printing from gold inks. The electrodes were chemically modified through the adsorption of alkanethiols self-assembled monolayers and the coupling of a model protein. Both reactions were followed by cyclic voltammetry and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The electrodes have shown high reproducibility in their electrochemical behavior as well as in their modifications. [source]


Simulation of nerve bundle activation by simultaneous multipoint extracellular stimulation with surface electrodes

ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATIONS IN JAPAN, Issue 6 2009
Hirokazu Takahashi
Abstract Neural prostheses for restoring lost functions can benefit from selective activation of nerves. We previously proposed a multipoint gating stimulation, which can selectively activate a desired portion of a nerve bundle, regardless of the density of the electrode. In this paper, we discuss the design of an electrode array and effective strategies to determine the stimulus parameters. Large electrodes were less affected by the relative location of the electrodes and the nodes of Ranvier, suggesting that a rectangular electrode, whose long side along a nerve bundle is longer than the internodal distance (i.e., on the order of 1 mm), would be more effective than a disk electrode. We were able to estimate an appropriate current at each electrode on the basis of a blocking threshold, above which no spike propagation was permitted. For lateral gating stimulation, the gate current should be set above the threshold, while for depthwise gating stimulation, the gate current should be set below the threshold. The spatial resolutions of lateral and depthwise gating stimulation were theoretically estimated to be at least 50 ,m when the grid spacing of the array was 1.2 mm. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 92(6): 31,40, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10064 [source]


Fast immobilization of probe beads by dielectrophoresis-controlled adhesion in a versatile microfluidic platform for affinity assay

ELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 19 2005
Janko Auerswald Dr.
Abstract The use of probe beads for lab-on-chip affinity assays is very interesting from a practical point of view. It is easier to handle and trap beads than molecules in microfluidic systems. We present a method for the immobilization of probe beads at defined areas on a chip using dielectrophoresis (DEP)-controlled adhesion. The method is fast, i.e., it takes between 10 and 120,s , depending on the protocol , to functionalize a chip surface at defined areas. The method is versatile, i.e., it works for beads with different types of probe molecule coatings. The immobilization is irreversible, i.e., the retained beads are able to withstand high flow velocities in a flow-through device even after the DEP voltage is turned off, thus allowing the use of conventional high-conductivity analyte buffers in the following assay procedure. We demonstrate the on-chip immobilization of fluorescent beads coated with biotin, protein,A, and goat,antimouse immunoglobulin G (IgG). The number of immobilized beads at an electrode array can be determined from their fluorescence signal. Further, we use this method to demonstrate the detection of streptavidin and mouse IgG. Finally, we demonstrate the feasibility of the parallel detection of different analyte molecules on the same chip. [source]


Optical Measurements of Platinum Based Electrocatalysts for the Electrooxidation of Methanol,

FUEL CELLS, Issue 1-2 2003
K. Gruber
Abstract In a combinatorial electrochemistry experiment quinine was used as a pH sensitive fluorescing indicator to detect the catalytic activity of methanol oxidation catalysts. During electrochemical experiments the surface of the electrode array was monitored with a CCD camera. The dependence of the intensity of the fluorescence on the applied potential was used as an analytical tool; to investigate the electrochemical performance of Pt based electrocatalysts, for the electrooxidation of methanol, in both short and long term tests. [source]


Depth of detection of highly conducting and volume polarizable targets using induced polarization

GEOPHYSICAL PROSPECTING, Issue 5 2000
A. Apparao
We define the apparent frequency effect in induced polarization (IP) as the relative difference between apparent resistivities measured using DC excitation on the one hand and high-frequency excitation (when the IP effect vanishes) on the other. Assuming a given threshold for the minimum detectable anomaly in the apparent frequency effect, the depth of detection of a target by IP can be defined as that depth below which the target response is lower than the threshold for a given electrode array. Physical modelling shows that for the various arrays, the depth of detection of a highly conducting and volume polarizable target agrees closely with the depth of detection of an infinitely conducting and non-polarized body of the same shape and size. The greatest depth of detection is obtained with a two-electrode array, followed by a three-electrode array, while the smallest depth of detection is obtained with a Wenner array when the array spread is in-line (i.e. perpendicular to the strike direction). The depth of detection with a Wenner array improves considerably and is almost equal to that of a two-electrode array when the array spread is broadside (i.e. along the strike direction). [source]


Cover Picture: Fabrication of Stable Metallic Patterns Embedded in Poly(dimethylsiloxane) and Model Applications in Non-Planar Electronic and Lab-on-a-Chip Device Patterning (Adv. Funct.

ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 4 2005
Mater.
Abstract A composite image is shown that highlights examples of device architectures that either incorporate or exploit polymer-embedded metallic microstructures. In work reported by Nuzzo and co-workers on p.,557, new applications of soft lithography, in conjunction with advanced forms of multilayer metallization, are used to construct these exceptionally durable structures. They are suitable for use in non-planar lithographic patterning, and as device components finding applications ranging from microelectronics to Lab-on-a-Chip analytical systems. This article describes the fabrication of durable metallic patterns that are embedded in poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) and demonstrates their use in several representative applications. The method involves the transfer and subsequent embedding of micrometer-scale gold (and other thin-film material) patterns into PDMS via adhesion chemistries mediated by silane coupling agents. We demonstrate the process as a suitable method for patterning stable functional metallization structures on PDMS, ones with limiting feature sizes less than 5,,m, and their subsequent utilization as structures suitable for use in applications ranging from soft-lithographic patterning, non-planar electronics, and microfluidic (lab-on-a-chip, LOC) analytical systems. We demonstrate specifically that metal patterns embedded in both planar and spherically curved PDMS substrates can be used as compliant contact photomasks for conventional photolithographic processes. The non-planar photomask fabricated with this technique has the same surface shape as the substrate, and thus facilitates the registration of structures in multilevel devices. This quality was specifically tested in a model demonstration in which an array of one hundred metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) devices was fabricated on a spherically curved Si single-crystalline lens. The most significant opportunities for the processes reported here, however, appear to reside in applications in analytical chemistry that exploit devices fabricated using the methods of soft lithography. Toward this end, we demonstrate durably bonded metal patterns on PDMS that are appropriate for use in microfluidic, microanalytical, and microelectromechanical systems. We describe a multilayer metal-electrode fabrication scheme (multilaminate metal,insulator,metal (MIM) structures that substantially enhance performance and stability) and use it to enable the construction of PDMS LOC devices using electrochemical detection. A polymer-based microelectrochemical analytical system, one incorporating an electrode array for cyclic voltammetry and a microfluidic system for the electrophoretic separation of dopamine and catechol with amperometric detection, is demonstrated. [source]


Relationship Between Connexins and Atrial Activation During Human Atrial Fibrillation

JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 2 2004
M.R.C.P., PRAPA KANAGARATNAM Ph.D.
Introduction: Gap junctional connexin proteins (connexin40 [Cx40], connexin43 [Cx43]) are a determinant of myocardial conduction and are implicated in the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). We hypothesized that atrial activation pattern during AF is related to connexin expression and that this relationship is altered by AF-induced remodeling in the fibrillating atria of chronic AF. Methods and Results: Isochronal activation mapping was performed during cardiac surgery on the right atria of patients in chronic AF (n = 13) using an epicardial electrode array. The atrial activation pattern was categorized using a complexity score based on the number of propagating wavefronts of activation and by grouping atria into those capable of uniform planar activation (simple) and those that were not (complex). The activation pattern was correlated with the levels of Cx43 and Cx40 signal measured by immunoconfocal quantification of biopsies from the mapped region. We studied the impact of electrical remodeling by comparing these findings with the unremodeled atria of patients in sinus rhythm during pacing-induced sustained AF (n = 17). In chronic AF, atria with complex activation had lower Cx40 signal than atria showing simple activation (0.013 ± 0.006 ,m2/,m2 vs 0.027 ± 0.009 ,m2/,m2, P < 0.02), with the relative connexin signal (Cx40/Cx40+Cx43) correlating with complexity score (P = 0.01, r =,0.74). This relationship did not occur in the unremodeled atria, and increased heterogeneity of distribution of Cx40 labeling in chronic AF was the only evidence of connexin remodeling that we detected in the overall group. Conclusion: The pattern of atrial activation is related to immunoconfocal connexin signal only in the fully remodeled atria of chronic AF. This suggests that intercellular coupling and pattern of atrial activation are interrelated, but only in conjunction with the remodeling of atrial electrophysiology that occurs in chronic AF. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 15, pp. 206-213, February 2004) [source]


Fleeting images: A new look at early emotion discrimination

PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 2 2001
Markus Junghöfer
The visual brain quickly sorted stimuli for emotional impact despite high-speed presentation (3 or 5 per s) in a sustained, serial torrent of 700 complex pictures. Event-related potentials, recorded with a dense electrode array, showed selective discrimination of emotionally arousing stimuli from less affective content. Primary sources of this activation were over the occipital cortices, extending to right parietal cortex, suggesting a processing focus in the posterior visual system. Emotion discrimination was independent of formal pictorial properties (color, brightness, spatial frequency, and complexity). The data support the hypothesis of a very short-term conceptual memory store (M. C. Potter, 1999),shown here to include a fleeting but reliable assessment of affective meaning. [source]


Intraoperative Assessment of an Implantable Electrode Array for Cavernous Nerve Stimulation

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 8 2008
Arthur L. Burnett
ABSTRACT Introduction., Erectile dysfunction remains a major functional complication of radical prostatectomy in the modern era despite surgical techniques to preserve the penile autonomic nerve supply. Aim., To develop and evaluate a neurostimulation system for cavernous nerve electrical stimulation for future use as a chronic implantation device that neurotrophically promotes erectile function recovery following radical prostatectomy. Method., After radical retropubic prostatectomy, the neurovascular bundle was stimulated using a temporarily placed electrode array of an implantable neurostimulation system (20 Hz frequency, 260 µ seconds pulse width, 5 mA,60 mA amplitude up to 10 minutes), and penile circumference increases were measured. Main Outcome Measure., Increase in penile circumference. Results., Among 12 men (mean age 60.3 years) enrolled in this study, 6 (50%) demonstrated measurable increases in penile circumference in response to cavernous nerve stimulation. Among these six men, the mean increase was 5.0 mm (range 1.6 mm to 7.0 mm). Temporary surgical placement of the device was done with relative ease, and there was no evidence of injury to the neurovascular bundle. Conclusions., A chronic implantable nerve stimulation system for cavernous nerve stimulation having possible neuromodulatory effects on the recovery of penile erections after radical prostatectomy is feasible. Burnett AL, Teloken PE, Briganti A, Whitehurst T, and Montorsi F. Intraoperative assessment of an implantable electrode array for cavernous nerve stimulation. J Sex Med 2008;5:1949,1954. [source]


Audiological outcome of the pull-back technique in cochlear implantees,

THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 7 2010
Dietmar Basta PhD
Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: The distance of the cochlear implant electrode contacts to the modiolus can be reduced by a surgical technique called "pull-back." This procedure changes the location of the fully inserted electrode array by moving the electrode out of the cochlea until the first silicon ring is visible in the cochleostomy. This leads to a more focused stimulation, which in turn could possibly improve hearing performance. The objective of the present study was to investigate the influence of the pull-back technique on frequency difference limens (FDL) and speech perception. Study Design: Double-blind trial. Methods: Twelve pull-back and 12 matched controls (matched by age, gender, duration of deafness, and duration of implant use) were used. Twenty-four patients were implanted with the Nucleus-24 Contour Advance array. In 12 patients the pull-back technique was used and in 12 matched controls a standard insertion technique was applied. Twelve months after the initial stimulation speech perception, spread of neuronal excitation (SOE) at electrodes 5, 10, and 15; and FDLs at 1, 2, and 4 kHz were measured. Results: There was no significant difference of speech perception performance between the two groups. However, the mean FDL for the 4 kHz reference tone was significantly lower in the pull-back group compared to the controls. The SOE was significantly reduced at basal, middle, and apical electrodes in the electrode pull-back group. Conclusions: The pull-back technique seems to have its greatest effect on perimodiolar position in the basal regions of the cochlea. Therefore, it is most likely to observe improved FDL in the 4 kHz region. Current speech recognition tests do not reflect the lower FDL. Laryngoscope, 2010 [source]


Implantation of the Ossified Cochlea: Management with the Split Electrode Array

THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 12 2005
D A. Millar BS
Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: To describe indications for, the surgical technique required, and the expected functional results of split electrode array cochlear implants. Study Design: Retrospective chart review. Methods: Data collected included etiology of deafness, radiographic findings, pre- and postoperative aided pure tone thresholds, and speech perception testing. Adult speech perception outcomes were measured using the Consonant Nucleus Consonant (CNC) monosyllable words and Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) in quiet/noise (+10dB). The children were assessed using the Infants and Toddlers Meaningful Auditory Integration Scale. Results: Five patients were implanted with a split electrode array. This included two adults and three children. Both adults had preoperative binaural aided pure tone averages worse than 50d B and scores of 0% on both HINT quiet and CNC words. The children had undetectable preoperative aided thresholds and scored an average 4/40 on the IT-MAIS. Postimplant, the average threshold gain was 38.5 dB in the adults and 81.5 dB in the children. One adult improved to score 51%/22% on HINT quiet/noise at 6 months and 72%/30% at 12 months. The other adult continued to score 0% on HINT at 12 months but claimed substantial subjective auditory improvement after the first year of device use. The children averaged 28/40 on the IT MAIS at 6 months after implantation. Forty-two of 48 implanted electrodes were functional. Conclusions: The split electrode array is a useful alternative to traditional cochlear implants in treating deafened patients with cochlear ossification. Patients implanted with the split array show marked improvement in sound and speech perception. [source]


Electrosurgery after Cochlear Implantation: Eighth Nerve Electrophysiology,

THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 12 2004
David M. Poetker MD
Abstract Hypothesis: Monopolar electrosurgery below the neck in cochlear implant recipients can be performed without damage to the internal cochlear stimulator, electrode array, and the cochlear nerve. Study Design: Prospective pre- and postintervention electrically evoked compound action potential (ECAP) study of cochlear nerve function and behavioral sound perception assessment. Methods: Neural response telemetry (NRT) was used to measure ECAPs before and after the use of monopolar electrosurgery during coronary artery bypass surgery to assess prosthetic device function and electrophysiologic function of the cochlear nerve. In addition, electrode voltage impedances and behavioral sound perception was measured at the same time intervals. Results: ECAPs, behavioral sound perception, and electrode voltage impedances were within the normal range, within compliance, and similar preoperatively and on postoperative day 6. Conclusion: The studies reported herein were a series of measurements designed to test neural integrity and prosthetic device function before and after the use of monopolar electrosurgery. With appropriate precautions, use of monopolar electrosurgery below the neck in cochlear implant recipients can be performed safely. [source]


Electrophysiologic Effects of Placing Cochlear Implant Electrodes in a Perimodiolar Position in Young Children,

THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 1 2004
Phillip A. Wackym MD
Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to intraoperatively record the electrically evoked auditory brainstem response (EABR) before and after placement of the electrode positioning system (EPS) (CII Bionic Ear with HiFocus I cochlear implant electrode array) as well as before and after stylet removal (Nucleus Contour cochlear implant electrode array). It was hypothesized that physiologic changes would occur after perimodiolar positioning of the electrode array and these changes would be evident from the EABR recordings. Study Design Consecutive young (11,36 month old) pediatric cochlear implant recipients (n = 17) had intraoperative EABRs recorded from three intracochlear electrodes that represented apical, medial, and basal locations. Wave V amplitudes and thresholds were studied relative to electrode location and pre- versus postperimodiolar positioning. These evoked potential measures were analyzed for statistical significance. Setting Tertiary referral children's hospital/medical college. Results Wave V thresholds of the EABR were lower, and amplitudes were larger after perimodiolar positioning, although the changes were dependent on electrode location and implant design. Statistically significant decreases in EABR wave V threshold and increases in suprathreshold wave V amplitude were found for the basal electrode for the CII Bionic Ear HiFocus I and for the apical electrode for the Nucleus Contour. Conclusions Placement of either the CII Bionic Ear HiFocus I or Nucleus Contour cochlear implant electrode array in the perimodiolar position in young children resulted in less electrical current necessary to stimulate the auditory system. Changes in electrophysiologic thresholds and amplitudes, measured with EABR, indicate that the electrode array is placed closer to the modiolus with both electrode designs. [source]


R-Wave Detection by Subcutaneous ECG.

ANNALS OF NONINVASIVE ELECTROCARDIOLOGY, Issue 1 2001
Possible Use for Analyzing R-R Variability
Background: Atrial arrhythmia (AA) discrimination remains a technological challenge for implanted cardiac devices. We examined the feasibility of R-wave detection by a subcutaneous far field ECG (SFFECG) and analysis of these signals for R to R variability as an indicator of atrial arrhythmia (AA). Methods: Surface ECG and SFFECG (from the pacemaker pocket) were recorded in sixteen patients (61.5 ± 11.4 years) with AA. The SFFECG was recorded with a pacemaker sized four electrode array acutely placed in the pacemaker pocket during implantation. The signals were analyzed to obtain peak-to-peak R wave amplitude and R to R interval variability (indicative of AAs). Results: In sixteen patients R waves were visually discernible in all recordings. The percentage over and under detection for automatic R wave recognition SFFECG was 3 and 9%, respectively. R to R variability analysis using the SFFECG produced results concordant to those using the surface ECG. Conclusion: SFFECG might be a helpful adjunct in implantable device systems for detection of R waves and may be used for measurement of R to R variability. A.N.E. 2001;6(1):18,23 [source]


Electric acoustic stimulation of the auditory system: experience and results of ten patients using MED-EL's M and FlexEAS electrodes

CLINICAL OTOLARYNGOLOGY, Issue 3 2010
A. Lee
Clin. Otolaryngol. 2010, 35, 190,197 Objective:, To evaluate the hearing preservation rate and speech perception scores in patients with profound high frequency hearing loss and acoustically aidable low frequency hearing, managed with the MED-EL electric acoustic stimulation system referenced to the insertion depth of the electrode array. Study design:, Retrospective data analysis. Participants and setting:, Ten patients implanted at the Auditory Implant Centre, Guy's and St Thomas's Hospital, London, UK. Main outcome measures:, Pure tone audiometry, speech perception tests and electrode insertion depth angle. Results:, Postoperatively, functional hearing preservation allowing electric acoustic stimulation was achieved in eight patients and total preservation of residual hearing in five patients with follow-up periods of more than 12 months. Three of four (75%) patients with an insertion depth of >360° had a threshold shift of >25 dB, and all four patients had a threshold shift of >10 dB. All patients with total hearing preservation had the electrode inserted up to 360° at maximum. Overall, speech perception outcomes increased significantly and hearing impairment was significantly reduced after electric acoustic stimulation or electric stimulation alone as compared with the preoperative scores. Conclusion:, Electric acoustic stimulation provides significant benefit to individuals with profound high frequency hearing loss. Studies with larger number of patients are needed to establish the optimal electrode insertion angle as well as to further analyse the benefit of electric acoustic stimulation. [source]


Regular Arrays of Microdisk Electrodes: Numerical Simulation as an Optimizing Tool to Maximize the Current Response and Minimize the Electrode Area Used

ELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 23 2006
Francois
Abstract Microdisk electrode arrays constitute an interesting tool for electroanalysis and electrocatalysis due to their increased sensitivity and excellent limits of detection. We first demonstrate that a 2-dimensional simulation based on the diffusion domain approximation can be used to simulate the response of such electrochemical systems and therefore improve their design and fabrication process. Second, we report data showing the peak current response for arrays at three typically employed voltage scan rate as a function of the number of disks per unit area and their radii. [source]


A numerical comparison of 2D resistivity imaging with 10 electrode arrays

GEOPHYSICAL PROSPECTING, Issue 5 2004
Torleif Dahlin
ABSTRACT Numerical simulations are used to compare the resolution and efficiency of 2D resistivity imaging surveys for 10 electrode arrays. The arrays analysed include pole-pole (PP), pole-dipole (PD), half-Wenner (HW), Wenner-, (WN), Schlumberger (SC), dipole-dipole (DD), Wenner-, (WB), ,-array (GM), multiple or moving gradient array (GD) and midpoint-potential-referred measurement (MPR) arrays. Five synthetic geological models, simulating a buried channel, a narrow conductive dike, a narrow resistive dike, dipping blocks and covered waste ponds, were used to examine the surveying efficiency (anomaly effects, signal-to-noise ratios) and the imaging capabilities of these arrays. The responses to variations in the data density and noise sensitivities of these electrode configurations were also investigated using robust (L1 -norm) inversion and smoothness-constrained least-squares (L2 -norm) inversion for the five synthetic models. The results show the following. (i) GM and WN are less contaminated by noise than the other electrode arrays. (ii) The relative anomaly effects for the different arrays vary with the geological models. However, the relatively high anomaly effects of PP, GM and WB surveys do not always give a high-resolution image. PD, DD and GD can yield better resolution images than GM, PP, WN and WB, although they are more susceptible to noise contamination. SC is also a strong candidate but is expected to give more edge effects. (iii) The imaging quality of these arrays is relatively robust with respect to reductions in the data density of a multi-electrode layout within the tested ranges. (iv) The robust inversion generally gives better imaging results than the L2 -norm inversion, especially with noisy data, except for the dipping block structure presented here. (v) GD and MPR are well suited to multichannel surveying and GD may produce images that are comparable to those obtained with DD and PD. Accordingly, the GD, PD, DD and SC arrays are strongly recommended for 2D resistivity imaging, where the final choice will be determined by the expected geology, the purpose of the survey and logistical considerations. [source]


3D resistivity inversion using 2D measurements of the electric field

GEOPHYSICAL PROSPECTING, Issue 1 2001
P.D. Jackson
Field and ,noisy' synthetic measurements of electric-field components have been inverted into 3D resistivities by smoothness-constrained inversion. Values of electrical field can incorporate changes in polarity of the measured potential differences seen when 2D electrode arrays are used with heterogeneous ,geology', without utilizing negative apparent resistivities or singular geometrical factors. Using both the X - and Y -components of the electric field as measurements resulted in faster convergence of the smoothness-constrained inversion compared with using one component alone. Geological structure and resistivity were reconstructed as well as, or better than, comparable published examples based on traditional measurement types. A 2D electrode grid (20 × 10), incorporating 12 current-source electrodes, was used for both the practical and numerical experiments; this resulted in 366 measurements being made for each current-electrode configuration. Consequently, when using this array for practical field surveys, 366 measurements could be acquired simultaneously, making the upper limit on the speed of acquisition an order of magnitude faster than a comparable conventional pole,dipole survey. Other practical advantages accrue from the closely spaced potential dipoles being insensitive to common-mode noise (e.g. telluric) and only 7% of the electrodes (i.e. those used as current sources) being susceptible to recently reported electrode charge-up effects. [source]


Neural Signal Manager: a collection of classical and innovative tools for multi-channel spike train analysis

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADAPTIVE CONTROL AND SIGNAL PROCESSING, Issue 11 2009
Antonio Novellino
Abstract Recent developments in the neuroengineering field and the widespread use of the micro electrode arrays (MEAs) for electrophysiological investigations made available new approaches for studying the dynamics of dissociated neuronal networks as well as acute/organotypic slices maintained ex vivo. Importantly, the extraction of relevant parameters from these neural populations is likely to involve long-term measurements, lasting from a few hours to entire days. The processing of huge amounts of electrophysiological data, in terms of computational time and automation of the procedures, is actually one of the major bottlenecks for both in vivo and in vitro recordings. In this paper we present a collection of algorithms implemented within a new software package, named the Neural Signal Manager (NSM), aimed at analyzing a huge quantity of data recorded by means of MEAs in a fast and efficient way. The NSM offers different approaches for both spike and burst analysis, and integrates state-of-the-art statistical algorithms, such as the inter-spike interval histogram or the post stimulus time histogram, with some recent ones, such as the burst detection and its related statistics. In order to show the potentialities of the software, the application of the developed algorithms to a set of spontaneous activity recordings from dissociated cultures at different ages is presented in the Results section. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


The Effect of Ablation Electrode Length and Catheter Tip to Endocardial Orientation on Radiofrequency Lesion Size in the Canine Right Atrium

PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 1 2002
RODRIGO C. CHAN
CHAN, R.C., et al.: The Effect of Ablation Electrode Length and Catheter Tip to Endocardial Orientation on Radiofrequency Lesion Size in the Canine Right Atrium. Although the determinants of radiofrequency lesion size have been characterized in vitro and in ventricular tissue in situ, the effects of catheter tip length and endocardial surface orientation on lesion generation in atrial tissue have not been studied. Therefore, the dimensions of radiofrequency lesions produced with 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-, and 12-mm distal electrode lengths were characterized in 26 closed-chested dogs. The impact of parallel versus perpendicular catheter tip/endocardial surface orientation, established by biplane fluoroscopy and/or intracardiac echocardiography, on lesion dimensions was also assessed. Radiofrequency voltage was titrated to maintain a steady catheter tip temperature of 75°C for 60 seconds. With a perpendicular catheter tip/tissue orientation, the lesion area increased from 29 ± 7 mm2 with a 4-mm tip to 42 ± 12 mm2 with the 10-mm tip, but decreased to 29 ± 8 mm2 with ablation via a 12-mm tip. With a parallel distal tip/endocardial surface orientation, lesion areas were significantly greater: 54 ± 22 mm2 with a 4-mm tip, 96 ± 28 mm2 with a 10- mm tip and 68 ± 24 mm2 with a 12-mm tip (all P < 0.001 vs perpendicular orientation). Lesion lengths and apparent volumes were larger with parallel, compared to perpendicular tip/tissue orientations, although lesion depth was independent of catheter tip length with both catheter tip/tissue orientations. Electrode edge effects were not observed with any tip length. Direct visualization using intracardiac ultrasound guidance was subjectively helpful in insuring an appropriate catheter tip/tissue interface needed to maximize lesion size. Although atrial lesion size is critically dependent on catheter tip length, it is more influenced by the catheter orientation to the endocardial surface. This information may also be helpful in designing electrode arrays for the creation of continuous linear lesions for the elimination of complex atrial tachyarrhythmias. [source]


Assessment of Finger Forces and Wrist Torques for Functional Grasp Using New Multichannel Textile Neuroprostheses

ARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 8 2008
Marc Lawrence
Abstract:, New multichannel textile neuroprotheses were developed, which comprise multiple sets of transcutaneous electrode arrays and connecting wires embroidered into a fabric layer. The electrode arrays were placed on the forearm above the extrinsic finger flexors and extensors. Activation regions for selective finger flexion and wrist extension were configured by switching a subset of the array elements between cathode, anode, and off states. We present a new isometric measurement system for the assessment of finger forces and wrist torques generated using the new neuroprostheses. Finger forces (from the middle phalanxes) were recorded using five load cells mounted on a "grasp handle" that can be arbitrarily positioned in space. The hand and the grasp handle were rigidly mounted to a 6-degree of freedom load cell, and the forces and torques about the wrist were recorded. A vacuum cushion was used to comfortably fixate the forearm. The position and orientation of the forearm, wrist, fingers, and handle were recorded using a new three-dimensional position measurement system (accuracy <±1 mm). The measurement system was integrated into the real-time multichannel transcutaneous electrode environment, which is able to control the spatiotemporal position of multiple activation regions. Using the combined system and textile neuroprosthesis, we were able to optimize the activation regions to produce selective finger and wrist articulation, enabling improved functional grasp. [source]