http://hdl.handle.net/10366/3954 2026-04-25T12:20:12Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/158091 [EN]The main goal of this study was to develop a tool to manage digital maps of the brain and information related to specific regions in the brain. This tool integrates 3D models of deep brain structures referenced in original Magnetic Resonance and Visible Human Project cross-sections with anatomical, func tional, pathological and surgical information for any specific brain region. Digital brain maps and related information were selectively displayed using an intuitive user-friendly interface. The implications of its use as a resource for a wide range of disciplines in neu rosciences are discussed. 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/158066 [EN]In recent years, the efforts to apply developments in medical informatics within training contexts have increased. The objective of this paper is to illustrate the benefits associated to the use of three-dimensional visualization digital systems, in a neuroanatomical training context, and evaluate the satisfaction level and perceived usefulness of these tools by students. The three dimensional models generated allowed the anatomical interactive study of brain structures and their spatial relationships in a complete, realistic and visually appealing manner for students, regardless of previous visuo-spatial skills. 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/158064 [EN]The complex brain alterations in major depressive disorder are difficult to address in training contexts. The increase in available evidence obtained through medical imaging studies and the latest information and communication technology developments offer favorable conditions to face this challenge. The objective of this paper is to generate a computer application that allows us to integrate and present, visually and interactively, the relevant contents to this clinical condition in training contexts. The implications of this digital resource are discussed in the teaching and learning process within the framework of the cognitive load theory. 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/158063 [EN]A selective sample of the latest innovations in health education based on digital and technological applications are presented. In particular, we focused on the contributions developed by VisualMed System (Medical Visualization Systems) Group in the field of medical learning and teaching. Applications are presented in the following order: first, anatomical and functional viewers; second, simulation environments for training purposes; and third, applications for smartphones and tablets. All the applications provide multiple interactivity features and rich visual learning material aimed to promote an autonomous learning process to support traditional teaching methods. Finally, implications for teaching and learning in health sciences are discussed. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157991 [ES]Los smartphones constituyen en la actualidad un recurso adicional de utilización docente, que enriquece y facilita la transmisión de contenidos didácticos. El objetivo es presentar un recurso docente, de creación propia, para el estudio del cerebro humano en tres dimensiones, mediante dispositivo móvil, que permita al estudiante disponer de una herramienta adicional de apoyo y de consulta complementaria a su formación universitaria. El desarrollo es soportable tanto para plataformas Android como iOS. Para su publicación en AppSore, en entornos Apple, se empleó el Kit de Desarrollo para Iphone (SDK-Software Development Kit), utilizando el lenguaje de programación Objetive C y un conjunto de herramientas asociadas Cocoa. Para teléfonos con tecnología Android, se empleó el lenguaje de programación Java utilizando el Software Development Kit (Android-SDK). Para conocer el grado de satisfacción de la aplicación tecnológica se llevo a cabo una encuesta, basada en 8 items, utilizando una valoración según la escala de Likert (1-5). La interacción con esta aplicación, confirió a los estudiantes, habilidades para el aprendizaje autónomo, consiguiendo una mejor comprensión de las estructuras cerebrales, al poder valorarlas en tres dimensiones. La encuesta de valoración de la aplicación efectuada a diferentes estudiantes, reveló un alto nivel de satisfacción de los usuarios. Estas herramientas constituyen un apoyo al desarrollo académico, siendo además un aporte importante en el proceso de aprendizaje de los alumnos. El manejo de estos dispositivos móviles permite gestionar el conocimiento a los estudiantes, desarrollando nuevas formas de innovación docente y elevar así la calidad del proceso académico. Estas aplicaciones incentivan el aprendizaje de los estudiantes, promoviendo una atención más participativa. [EN]Smartphones can nowadays be regarded as an additional resource for educational practice, which enriches and facilitates the transmission of teaching contents. The objective is to introduce a new teaching resource that we have created for the study of the human brain in three dimensions, by using a mobile tool that enables the student to use a supplementary support and information tool in their university formation. The development works both under Android and iOS environments. For its publication in AppSore, we used the development kit for iPhone (SDK-Software Development Kit), programming language Objective C and Cocoa associate tools. For Android smartphones we used Java programming language and the Software Development Kit (Android-SDK). To know the degree of satisfaction of application users, we carried out an 8-item survey valued according to a Likert scale. The interaction with the application provided students with abilities of autonomous learning, thus getting a better understanding of brain structures that can now be estimated in three dimensions. The rating survey for the application, which was carried out to different students, revealed a high degree of satisfaction from its users. These tools represent a way of assistance to academic development, also being a relevant source of help in the learning process of students. Employing mobile gadgets, the students are able to manage their knowledge, developing new ways of teaching innovation and heightening the quality of the academic process. These applications stimulate the acquisition of contents and promote a more participative intervention in the learning process. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157990 [EN]In recent years, computer application development has experienced exponential growth, not only in number but also regarding the fields that have benefitted from its use. In health science training and medicine in particular, the progressive incorporation of technological developments has transformed the teaching and learning process, resulting in true “educational technology”, which this track focuses on given its repercussion and current dissemination. One of the most representative examples within educational technology has been the development of new content visualization systems, more complete and realistic than traditional learning material on paper. These applications are true learning environments aimed toward maximizing the student’s work outside the classroom and the interaction with the contents given, an important support or complement to traditional teaching. The technological application development with teaching purposes in Heath Science is paying increasing attention to mobile phones, smartphones and tablets due to their portability, economic accessibility and Internet access, maximizing the dissemination and availability of developed applications. These changes in health science teaching pose a challenge for teachers and institutions when designing, developing, implementing and evaluating these technological applications, as well as an effort on behalf of students to adapt. Thus, it is fitting to provide a space to gather and reflect upon these practices in an event like the International Conference on Technology Ecosystems for Enhancing Multiculturalism. Nowadays, a growing number of studies have directed their attention to the effectiveness evaluation of these applications with increasingly sophisticated designs. The results are encouraging and signal a promising future for the development of computer applications in health science. The purpose of this track is twofold: to offer a general vision on the contribution of medical informatics and related fields in health science; and to provide an excellent opportunity to promote and exchange innovative teaching experiences, especially those based on the application of new technologies. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157989 [EN]Background. It is a fact that students, professors and physicians show difficulties in learning and teaching the way to identify the speech areas and their connections, specially neurosurgeons to locate and assess the indication or contraindication of surgery due to the need of preserving the function. Purpose. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the major role and development of the new functional MR (fMR) techniques on the language areas, because they are not only used to assess the brain morphology but also the language function. Diffusion tensor tractography assesses the connections of the language-related areas by the white matter tracts. Method. We present a large amount of images of brain-CT, fMR and diffusion tensor tractography of the eloquent areas. Results. Brain speech areas and their connections by the white matter tracts are visually illustrated and described. Images prove to be very useful to understand the complexity of the language system and to locate speech areas avoiding the inter and intra individual variability. Conclusions. The application of this technology makes possible the visual learning of the complexity of the language system as well as the assessment and accurate delimitation of the brain damages and their relationship with the motor and eloquent areas of the brain. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157988 [EN]Taking self-learning or e-learning as a model and by the application of new technologies, we introduce the software application of an echograph simulator, a very useful tool to nurture knowledge and training of the health professionals, integrating the images taken during echograph exploration with the anatomical knowledge, key for the the infiltration of the botulinum toxin in the treatment context or when addressing spasticity. The application of this echograph simulator allows us to virtually explore muscular groups both of the upper and lower limb, as well as point out the best spots where the correct and precise infiltration of the toxin in the spastic muscle can be done, identifying the structures seen in the echograph. Illustrations of sectioned anatomy taken from nuclear magnetic resonance (RMN) images of the common regions for echo guided infiltration are included, where the different anatomic structures that comprise them are highlighted. The main objective is to introduce a training tool for the doctor, in order to get a better knowledge grade and better practical skills in the infiltration of the botulinum toxin when dealing with spasticity. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157987 [EN]Background. Performing peripheral nerve block is a key element in the curriculum of medical students, in particular, anesthesiologists. Regions considered optimal for performing peripheral nerve blocking have been well documented. However, students and professors show difficulties in both learning and teaching the way to identify and perform regional anesthesia in those regions from ultrasound images. Purpose. This study aims to develop a virtual environment for the simulation of ultrasound exploration of the neck nerves and both the upper and lower limbs for regional anesthesia teaching and learning. Method. Cross sectional images were obtained from Magnetic Resonance Imaging for puncture regions involved in ultrasound-guided nerve block. Results. A three-dimensional digital viewer was developed which allowed the identification of key structures involved in peripheral nerve block in neck, upper and lower limbs. Additionally, a complete list of neuromuscular systems of the arms and legs, involving nerves and muscles, are also displayed for their study. Conclusions. Implications for learning and teaching the ultrasound exploration for regional anesthesia procedures and acquisition of anatomical knowledge are discussed. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157986 [EN]The integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has generated a change in teaching methodologies au university level. The objective of this study is to check the effectiveness of interactive processes in summative assessment or learning-oriented assessment contexts using electronic self assessment processes (Java application) versus the use of audience response systems (ARS) or “clickers” in the classroom, from the point of view of students’ satisfaction measurement. The sample for this study is composed by the students of the first year of the Degree on Dentistry of the School of Medicine of the University of Salamanca, and which was carried out by means of a questionnaire, where 1 stood for total disagreement and 7 for absolute agreement; together with an statistical analysis (Conbach alpha) that allows us to value the reliability of the answers obtained. Results reflect the students’ answers to the questionnaire, as well as the relationship between the two systems. To conclude, there are certain coincidences when judging both assessment tools, but we also observe that there is a better predisposition towards Java system rather than to clickers. The job done by a coordinated interdisciplinary team formed by members of different areas has made it possible to build and validate interesting pedagogical materials, as well as to develop formative assessment strategies that could be generalized to other subjects in different degrees. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157985 [EN]Background. Medical images have passed from static and printed images with no possibility of modifying many technical parameters to volumetric data that allow its manipulation and advanced processing for surgical or pedagogical purposes. Aim. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the major role and potential of OsiriXTM, a new open-source computerized tool for the advanced processing of medical images, in the study of neurovascular anatomy. Methodology. DICOM images were acquired with radio diagnostic equipment using 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance (MR) images from a 34-year-old and right handed female. Images were further processed using OsiriXTM version 4.0 32 bits for OS, one of the most versatile technologies within the field of medical imaging. Results. Key features required for processing neurovascular images such as segmentation and three-dimensional reconstruction of vascular elements (cerebral arteries and Willis polygon) are visually illustrated and described. Conclusion. The application of this technology in medical imaging has enhanced the accessibility and availability of neuroimaging, reducing the need for sophisticated and expensive workstations for image processing. Advanced image processing allows overcoming limitations inherent to classical techniques based on two-dimensional sections. Three-dimensional reconstructions of vascular elements are already used in daily clinical practice, including diagnostic protocols. Also, interactivity and virtual visualization makes it simple, cost-effective and easy to understand complex vascular elements. Discussion. Implications for teaching and learning neurovascular concepts and diagnostic value are discussed. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157984 [EN]We present innovative tools for the visualization and creation of interactive 3D PDF presentations containing anatomical models. In this study we used a 3D embryonic craniofacial model reconstructed from 2D microscopic section images and imported it into an interactive PDF document, where it is managed by a set of JavaScript-based functions. Our documents serve two purposes: firstly, they enable a user to explore a 3D model, in a user-friendly and intuitive way examining anatomical structures, and secondly, they offer the possibility of creating a custom collection of slides containing model views and explanatory anatomical descriptions, later used in the form of a teaching presentation. 2013-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157960 [EN]In this study we present design of a visualization tool of three dimensional anatomic structures applied to teaching activities, that provides great improvements in medical education. This study will grant both, teachers and students, tools that facilitate the process of teaching and learning, building a new realistic system of body morphology. We use specific software to design the anatomical structures of the human body. We analyze each of the necessary tools to create and edit all different musculoskeletal system parts. We rely on different anatomical atlas references at all times, as well as on the visible human project, which is very important to our study. Our final purpose will be to get remarkable improvement in the optimal visualization of the different body structures and at several positions of bodies area. 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157959 [EN]The objective of this paper is to discuss about the factors and drivers needed to define a new quality protocol applied for apps. In fact, it is mainly focused on medical apps that are used for learning. This paper also explains the process and the methodology adopted in order to come out with those factors. The methodology used to reach these factors is a practical session with participants of different profiles (students and medical professionals) that should use one specific app and answer a questionnaire of 45 items evaluating different dimensions of the app. Besides, this investigation discusses about the main factors and drivers that could influence on evaluating those dimensions. According to the data, the profile of the participants could influence on the score, but the mobile devices that they owned, does not affect the final evaluation. Finally and according to the different points given by the participants, it is necessary to calculate the average score of the app and its percentage. In our process, if the app does not reach at least 70% of points, then, the app is rejected and the certificate is not awarded. The criterion selected for this protocol is completely strict in order to pass only the most excellent apps. As a result, the draft of the protocol is designed and could be used for any app. It is important to notice that the protocol is created taking into account the users’ point of view. For future researches is needed to obtain more samples and to minimize the limitations found during the research. 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157958 [EN]The new technologies have advanced astonishingly in the last few decades. There are more and more Medical Schools adopting new tools to teach Medicine to undergraduate students or even to teach the continuous training for professionals. Not all the Universities adopt these technologies at same level or same grade of the speed but as a result it seems that they will adopt more and more often the new technologies as part of the curriculum. This paper wants to be a review of the state of the art technologies that have stepped in the Medical Schools in the last decade. Overall, we want to describe the function of these new tools, how all of them have been adopting to teach Medicine answering most part of the demands of physicians and how they could be evolved in the future to continue making the medical education a new revolutionary industry in continual progress. Not only that, it makes the engineering biomedical a field very interesting to explore and to be invested on, as they could enhance the skills of new professionals of Medicine to be prepared for the digital environment where they will work on. It is important to notice that the advanced technologies are enhanced at more speed than the education is able to adopt in. Sometimes, the reason could be the unawareness of these technologies. Occasionally, it could be the money needed to invest and from time to time it could be that the leaderships of Medical Schools are not convinced enough that the new technologies will work. 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10366/157957 [EN]Intelligent environments are increasingly becoming useful scenarios for handling computers. Technological devices are practical tools for learning and acquiring clinical skills as part of the medical training process. Within the framework of the advanced user interface, we present a technological application using Leap Motion, to enhance interaction with the user in the process of a laparoscopic surgical intervention and integrate the navigation through augmented reality images using manual gestures. Thus, we intend to achieve a more natural interaction with the objects that participate in a surgical intervention, which are augmented and related to the user’s hand movements. 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z