Engineering Methodologies for Medicine and Sports

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) is a frequent pathological condition. The patient is characterized by an upper airway obstruction during sleep that can be total of partial. The gold standard of disease treatment is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). A therapeutic alternative is represented by Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs). The MAD aims to generate a mandibular protrusion that induces a tensioning of the soft tissues in the retro-palatal and retro-lingual area. However, this kind of treatment present long-term side events that may affect the dentition and temporo-mandibular joints (TMJ). The application of forces on the dento-alveoloar structures and TMJ present a compressing/stretching modality that activate bone remodeling. Application of a compressive force induces absorption of alveolar bone. On the other side, tensile stress determines the formation of new alveolar bone. Finite Element Method (FEM) is an innovative and non-invasive method to evaluate the biomechanical effects of an oral appliance. The treatment results depend on several factors such as thickness, material construction property, degree of retention, dental coverage and mandibular advancement, individual mandibular motion, and titration type. FEM provides useful information that doctors and dentist can use for treating patients suffering from OSA. The main goal is to increase treatment efficacy, efficiency, patient compliance and reducing the side effects of this life-long treatment. Designing and fabricating optimized and customized MADs is a crucial aspect for this goal.

Temporary anchoring devices (TADs) also known as mini-screws represent today an alternative method to improve orthodontic mechanisms. In particular, these mini-screws are used as ‘anchors’ to facilitate the straightening of the teeth and the closing of the interdental spaces, especially when the application of force could cause an unwanted movement of some teeth. However, a crucial aspect related to the use of these devices is the possibility of breakage during their operational life as well as during positioning and/or extraction. The existence of a fragment of the mini-screw within the jaw not only poses a potential risk of inflammation but also necessitates supplementary interventions to extract the compromised components. Additionally, the materials used may contribute to cytotoxicity. To address concerns related to mini-screw breakage and potential cellular damage, researchers need to investigate two key areas: the resistance behaviour of mini-screws and how their microstructure affects performance during treatment. By understanding these factors, you can choose more reliable and effective mini-screws, ultimately improving patient safety and treatment success.This article provides an overview of mini-screws, presenting and examining the development, advantages and disadvantages of mini-screw implants in the context of temporary skeletal anchorage for orthodontic applications. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the microstructural and mechanical properties of such mini-implants.

Mechanical properties of human dentin have been the subject of numerous experimental studies. This paper collects the main results reported in literature, obtained by using different experimental techniques. Elastic, anelastic and plastic characteristics of dentin are examined including Young’s modulus, shear modulus, Poisson’s ratio, damping, yield and ultimate stress, hardness, fatigue, fracture toughness, creep and stress relaxation.

In modern society, it is increasingly important to pay attention to healthy and aesthetic appearance. Orthodontic treatment can improve the position of teeth and jaw. A distinction was made between functional orthodontic and dentoalveolar therapies. Currently, various materials are used to produce brackets. In addition to conventional metal brackets made of steel, titanium, or gold, tooth-colored plastic brackets made of polycarbonate and ceramic brackets made of aluminum or zirconium oxide are used. [1, 2] The progressive development of CAD/CAM technology in recent years has opened new possibilities for computer-assisted orthodontic diagnostics and planning for dentoalveolar therapy. [3, 4] The aim of this study was to manufacture plastic brackets for fixed braces using simple additive production. For this purpose, a bracket sample was designed and produced with a filament printer (FDM-Fused Deposition Modelling) Ultimaker S3 (Ultimaker B.V., Watermolenweg 24191 PN Gel-dermalsen). The construction and design were created using CAD software (SolidWorks2021) and transferred to 3D printer’s proprietary slicing software (Cura Version 4.12.0, Ultimaking ltd.). By adjusting the parameters (printing speed, temperature, etc.), it is possible to adapt the printed components. The printed miniature components were then optically and physically tested and analyzed.

An analysis of surgical rib retraction is presented by an experimental evaluation with pork rib samples using proper sensors in terms of motion and force features. Laboratory experiences with animal model specimens are reported to prove the efficiency of the designed sensing system and to characterize the biomechanics of surgeon motion and rib retractor action during thoracic operations. The aim of the work is to improve surgery procedures by providing a better understanding of surgery mechanics.

Continuous efforts are necessary for improving the performance and expanding the applications of single crystal diamond detectors (SCD) in medical and high-energy physics. In this paper, we present a characterization of two thin SCDs under 14 MeV neutron irradiation to assess their neutron sensitivity. Measurements were performed in current mode at the 14 MeV Frascati Neutron Generator (FNG). The detectors were realized in Schottky diode configuration at “Tor Vergata” University of Rome. The detectors showed an outstanding linearity versus neutron fluxes and a remarkably low sensitivity to this radiation, in terms of collected charge per neutron, making them suitable for diagnostics of neutron-mixed particle beams. A Monte Carlo model built with the well-known Geant4 simulation toolkit is also presented. The latter has shown not only that it can simulate with excellent accuracy the sensitivity of detectors to neutron radiation, but once the model has been calibrated against the experimental data, it is possible to estimate the thickness of the detector’s radiation-sensitive region.

Background: An innovative device that uses nanotechnology to induce beneficial effects on the human body is the Taopatch® (Tao Technologies, Italy), and this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nanotechnology devices on the intensity of perceived pain.Methods: 570 subjects (49.52 ± 17.72 years), 336 women and 234 men, recruited from physiotherapy and physician centers in the national territory. Pain intensity was assessed with the unidimensional pain assessment Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The devices were applied for two hours, and the follow-up is ongoing.Results: Most of the sample suffers from back pain (25%) and neck pain (22%), 12% of the shoulders, and 6% of the upper limb. Moreover, 14% have lower limb pain, 6% have pain in the pelvis, and 11% suffer from headaches. The lowest incidence rates are trunk pain (2%) and widespread pain (2%). The nano device’s regular application has decreased a statistically significant VAS value by 50% (p < 0,001). The pre-VAS value is higher in females than males, but the intensity of improvement recorded at the end of treatment is similar.Conclusions: The application of Taopatch® would appear to have a positive effect on muscle, joint, and neuralgic pain and was effective in reducing the intensity of the pain.

Classical cancer treatments involve surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, while newer treatments like immune therapy and heat are still in the process of being developed while already being applied. All cancer treatment aims for killing the cancer cells while not harming the healthy cells, while with all classical cancer treatments this is difficult to realize. In most cases also the healthy cells are effected negatively, leaving the patient behind with unwanted side effects harming his overall health status up to the point when the treatment has to be terminated. Another idea was to treat cancer with sound, claiming there is an “Eigen frequency” typical for cancer cells while the healthy cells might have a different “Eigen frequency”. According to this idea the cancer cells could be destroyed by exposing healthy and cancer cells to appropriate ultrasound while just the cancer cells are destroyed, leaving behind the healthy cells unharmed. Still unresolved is the question how to determine any kind of “Eigen frequency” for biological cells. The approach shown here to determine such Eigen frequency is based on Electronic Speckle Pattern Interferometry. Thus a Micro Speckle Interferometer was developed and applied to mesoscopic and microscopic inorganic MEMS. The results were transferred to inorganic samples as well as transparent micro-sized samples like water droplets and finally to micro-sized biological samples for static as well as dynamic Micro-ESPI on transparent biological samples down to the optical resolution limit.

In the field of wearable devices, respiratory monitoring is relatively less developed than other consolidated approaches like cardiac and activity monitoring. Specifically, several devices offer the possibility to monitor the respiratory rate, i.e., the number of breaths per minute, in static conditions. However, obtaining the same signal in dynamic conditions is challenging because of movement artifacts. Furthermore, there are only a few devices available that allow us to monitor the tidal volume, i.e., the volume of air that moves into and out of the lungs with each breath. As tidal volume is needed to directly compute minute ventilation, which is the product between respiratory rate and tidal volume, most devices on the market cannot compute this parameter. For this reason, models of minute ventilation based on measured heart or pulse rate, respiratory rate, and other individual characteristics such as age, body mass index or estimated forced vital capacity are used. This work presents the most common strategies to estimate minute ventilation together with the challenges and opportunities of measuring tidal volume with wearables.

This chapter introduces a wearable Body Sensor Network (BSN) that can monitor cardiorespiratory parameters, activity levels, and air quality. The system is composed of six units: three Inertial Measurement Units for respiratory monitoring and activity recognition, a pulse oximeter, a single-lead ECG, and an environmental monitor. The BSN is based on the ANT protocol, and there is a dedicated smartphone app to collect data from the different units. Previous research works with parts of the BSN are presented, including the development of a human activity recognition algorithm, an algorithm for respiratory signal extraction in dynamic conditions, and a validation of cardiorespiratory parameters monitoring in response to a physiological signal. In the conclusion, possible future developments are discussed, including studies on air quality measurements and exposure to pollutants, and the integration of other measurements into the BSN.

In recent years, hip and knee arthroplasty surgeries have increased and further growth is expected. Preoperative fitness predicts the postoperative results of lower extremity arthroplasty. However, many patients undergo the surgery with reduced mobility and poor functional capacity. Addressing preoperative conditions is critical to improving arthroplasty outcomes. Although there are conflicting opinions on Prehabilitation (Prehab) in the literature, it has been shown to be effective in reducing management costs related to postoperative care, improving physical function and reducing pain. Therefore, the effects of a home Tele-Prehab program, based on electrostimulation, were assessed and compared with those of an exercise-based online program, equal in doses and duration. From April 15th to June 15th, 2023, 12 patients (7 Females), candidates for lower limb arthroplasty, were recruited and randomly assigned to one of the two study groups: electrostimulation (EG), Exercises (CG). For four weeks, both groups independently carried out a tele-prehab program consisting of three weekly sessions, lasting 30 min each. EG used an electrostimulator delivered at home (I-Tech Physio, IACER, Scorzè, Italy); CG performed the exercises described in a brochure. At the beginning and the end of the program, two teleconference sessions were held to asses functional abilities, quality of life, and perceived pain. All outcomes improved in both groups; more in EG than in CG, but not statistically significant. Results support the hypothesis that a tele-prehab program with electrostimulator could improve the treatment path of people undergoing lower limb arthroplasty.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, characterised by a wide symptom spectrum. Ambulation dysfunctions are the most experienced impairments among people with MS (pwMS). Lower limb powered exoskeletons claim to reduce training-related fatigue levels yet providing patients with task-specific stimuli. The aim of the study is to compare the effects of exoskeleton training (Et) compared to conventional training performed on treadmills (Tt) on walking abilities.Methods: 5 MS patients with an EDSS ≤ 2.5, performed 4 weeks (2 sessions/week) of gait training for each training modality. Participants performed functional assessment sessions before and after each training intervention that included: Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) test, 6-min Walking test (6MWT), and Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contraction (MVIC) assessment. Non-parametric Friedman Test was used to test differences between training protocols.Results: Despite the lack of statistical significance, Et showed greater improvements in some parameters belonging to TUG, 6MWT, and MVIC performances. Moreover, some of the participants achieved clinically significant improvements supporting Et approach.Conclusion: Physical activity helps pwMS in symptom management and slows down the progression of the disease. Gait rehabilitation performed on treadmills, overground or with the aid of exoskeletons aims at improving gait and balance performances in pwMS. The positive tendencies in favour of Et found in the current pilot study support future research in the direction of the innovative robot-assisted gait rehabilitation.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a highly successful orthopedic procedure but, after the discharge, patients often develop a lower limb edema and impaired physical outcomes. Thus, the aim of our study was to assess the efficacy of a leg-pneumatic compression treatment on lower limb edema, range of motion and physical outcomes, compared to antithrombotic exercise and standard conservative treatment. We included 40 participants and assigned randomly to three distinct groups: the pneumatic compression group (PG, n = 14) the antithrombotic exercise group (ES, n = 14), and the standard conservative treatment (CG, n = 12). The CG underwent conventional venous thromboembolism therapy, while to the ES was administered, twice daily, a 30-min exercise session. In contrast, PG received a combination of pneumatic compression. We assessed the range of motion, physical and edema-related outcomes. The ANOVA analysis revealed a greater reduction both in the PG and in the ES of thigh (PG and ES p < 0.001) and calf circumferences (PG p = 0.023; ES p < 0.001) compared to the CG, but no difference in these parameters was found between the PG and ES. The changes in the other outcomes were similar between the three groups (p > 0.05). Pneumatic compression and antithrombotic exercises were more effective in reducing leg edema than standard treatment. While no significant differences were observed between the experimental and control groups, the time required for antithrombotic exercises should be considered. For these reasons, pressotherapy is a valuable alternative for addressing lower limb edema after THA.

Conservative treatment is the first choice for most spine pathologies. If this option fails, surgical treatment is often the only alternative. Interventions like microscopic lumbar discectomy and lumbar interbody fusion are the most common ones. Following spine surgery (SS), trunk proprioception may decrease favoring sensorimotor and balance alterations. Providing information to the somatosensory system through guided exercises is important. The aim of the study was to evaluate the acute effects of core activation exercises on spine alignment and balance in people undergoing SS.22 patients, candidates for SS, were recruited from June to August 2022. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: Guided Core Activation Exercises (GE), or Autonomous Self-Correction (GC). Both interventions lasted 10 min and were carried out on the 3rd post-SS day in front of a squared-up mirror. Assessments were performed before (T0) and after (T1) the assigned intervention. Participants needed to stand keeping an upright posture during both T0 and T1. During T1 patients integrated the information learned during the interventions. Spine alignment (RMS) was evaluated with the Spine 3D (Sensormedica, Italy), a non-invasive three-dimensional optoelectronic detection system, while balance was assessed with the Freemed stabilometric platform (Sensormedica, Italy).Balance outcomes worsened during T1 in both groups: more in GC than in GE. Both Ellipse eccentricity and Y-axis shift were significantly worse for GC than GE. RMS improved in GE and worsened in GC, not significantly. Results highlight that, in acute, core activation exercises improve spine alignment but not balance in patients undergoing spine surgery.

A semiconductor-based Hydrogen sensor is going to be modified at different processing stages to meet practical demands for reliable and broad applications. Optimizations aiming to reduce cross sensitivity and enhance stability for implementation in security structures of growing hydrogen system being established due to the industrial translation for better sustainability and reduction of CO2 emission. Objective is combining sensor elements, modifying sensor characteristics for improved workflow and more economical use of resources in process chains. The specific bulk material consisting of Si/SiO2/Si3N4 covered with LaF3 is modified for improved sensor characteristics and broad sensor application fields. Different gate structures which form the sensitive area are deposited via PVD. The system is valid for a fast detection of Hydrogen in air to prevent risks of combustion or explosion and also has potential for healthcare applications due to its high sensitivity.

Water is the most important resource on our planet. It can only be consumed by humans if it is of a certain quality. A specific purity of water is also necessary for laboratory standards for experiments and tests. Therefore, it is necessary to clean and purify it. It is also important to ensure that the purification process is resource-saving, effective and efficient, at least to protect the environment. For this reason, new purification principles are constantly being researched, existing ones are improved, or different ones are combined to achieve better performance in a cost- and energy-saving way. This work investigates the effectiveness of combined water treatment using various purification processes in combination with UV-C disinfection. Primarily, the disinfection effect of new UV-C diodes in the wavelength range of 250 nm to 315 nm is investigated in different wavelength spectral setups. In addition, the level of disinfection is analyzed with varying parameters such as water temperature, flow velocity and voltage changes. The disinfection performance has also been evaluated in combinations of UV-C disinfection with ultrasound exposure and ozone as a negative example. The results of these studies will be used for the further development of a modular water treatment system. This system can be modified with different modules to purify water, add water constituents, or measure specific parameters simultaneously. The results will be used to develop and adjust different modules for the system.

Worldwide great concern has recently arisen about pollution by Microplastics (MPs) as a new major and ubiquitous hazard for human health and ecosystems with undetermined, yet potentially dangerous effects. However, despite a great research effort, the methods for quantitative identification still rely on long and subjective visual counting procedures carried out on optical microscopes by skilled human operators. In this study, a new automatic, portable, low-cost, and fast method for the quantitative detection of MPs in water is presented. Based on a modified optical scheme of a confocal microscope, the system automatically processes and counts the fluorescence pulses emitted by dye-stained MPs in flowing liquids after excitation with a low-power laser beam. Absolute calibration and tests to determine particle counts as a function of the flow rate were performed with commercial fluorescent 10-μm polystyrene microbeads. The particle count was found to increase linearly as a function of the flow rate up to a value of 600 ml/h. Real sample measurements were performed on three different types of commercial bottled water samples. The result were in good agreement with microscope observations. Therefore, the present investigation demonstrated the proof of concept of a methodology for quick automated counting of MPs in water.

Lidar technology, used in remote sensing, is capable of identifying deviations in local density by triggering an alert when there is a significant change in local density levels. Such variations in the tropospheric density can be attributed to both human activities (like industrial emissions and traffic in cities) and natural events (including wildfires, the ripening of climacteric fruits, and the dispersion of volcanic ash during eruptions). Considering the limitations of many backscattering coefficient inversion algorithms in providing absolute measurements, a key issue in horizontal lidar use is establishing a baseline backscattering coefficient. This baseline is crucial not just for applying various inversion algorithms to determine backscattering and extinction values, but also for calibrating lidar systems. This study introduces a numerically validated method, supported by field experiments, for determining a baseline backscattering coefficient, which aids in relative backscattering measurements. It also establishes a link between the backscattering coefficient and meteorological factors like temperature, humidity, and visibility as part of the proposed model. The preliminary field research was conducted in an urban setting known for heavy traffic, at a height of 15 m above street level, which is the expected height for emissions dispersion.

The aim of the collaborative research between the project partners ACI GmbH Berlin and Technical University Wildau was the development of a fully automated cell biological Multi Bench Top Cultivator. This cultivator is characterized by integrated sensors, heating and cooling circuits, as well as supply modules for nutrient media as well as gassing. The stand-alone Multi Bench Top Cultivator system represents a novel technology that is currently not available worldwide. The goal is to ensure reproducibility and quality assurance, establishing a new standard in 2D and 3D cell cultivation.

This study investigates the degradation of Naproxen in wastewater using a treatment method involving cavitation and plasma discharge. The significance of this method is emphasized in light of the increasing contamination of wastewater with pharmaceuticals. The experimental results demonstrate the capability of the system to degrade Naproxen in water, as confirmed by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis.The primary mechanism behind Naproxen degradation involves the generation of radicals, charged particles, forces, and heat through plasma and hydrodynamic cavitation, leading to oxidation and bond cleavage.The study suggests that oxidative degradation, driven by the generated radicals, is the primary cause of Naproxen breakdown. Various proposed Naproxen degradation products indicate potential reactions involving oxygen radicals and hydroxyl groups. The effectiveness of the treatment increases with longer exposure, generating more radicals and facilitating increased Naproxen degradation.The treated samples exhibited a decrease in total peak area with longer treatment times, possibly due to the formation of undetected products or the evolution of gases like carbon dioxide. Additional peaks in chromatograms, especially after prolonged treatment, posed challenges in peak assignment. Further observations revealed ongoing oxidation even after five days of storage, suggesting delayed or persistent degradation, possibly due to remaining radicals or slow-reacting substances.

Aviation is characterized by its overall maxim of safety. Consequently, this shapes decision making especially in a cockpit, where effective, workable – and safe – solutions have to be reached within a limited amount of time and often under stress. Obviously, this has lot in common with making judgments in medicine. Therefore, a comparative perspective is taken to clarify commonalities in this regard between both professional fields. Subsequently the derived similarities indicate how findings from aviation are applicable to practical decision making in medicine. Since manifold parameters significantly influence and partially impair the process of approaching decisions, these formative components like constraints and the human factor are described as well.The paramount objective of safety and the particular requirements in cockpits led to standardized procedures for pilots aiming to structure complex and critical situations. These brief and formalized routines are outlined as they represent practicable methods for deciders in aviation likewise in medicine. Since the entire process of making decisions is sui generis, due to the human influence, error prone, this topic cannot be separated from its surrounding error culture. This aspect is mentioned to complete the picture, since the management of potential failure affects decision making as a whole.

This work explores the feasibility of parametrizing the Total Human Model for Safety (THUMS) based on statistical anthropometric percentile using mesh morphing of THUMS AM50 driven by radial basis functions (RBF). The study first establishes the implementation criteria for mesh morphing, recognizing the modulation of shape differences between THUMS AM50 and AM95 as indicative of anthropometric variability between the generic percentile and the 50th percentile. The RBF problem is defined by selecting source points on well-distributed edges of the FE HBM and calculating displacement fields assigned to them. The mesh morphing process from the 50th to the generic percentile is fully automated and takes approximately 10 s. Shifting focus from modeling to verification, the study evaluates the effectiveness of the adopted mesh morphing strategy by comparing the shape of THUMS AM95 with that of its parametric counterpart AM50m95 (to indicate the 50th percentile transformed into the 95th) in a frontal sled test. Geometric verification confirmed close correspondence between THUMS AM95 and AM50m95, with a global average deviation of just 3.6 mm. Kinematic verification comparing the average displacements of specific landmark points is good at some locations but some detected deviations require further investigation. The parametric model is then used to span in the range 35–95 comparing AM50m35, AM50, AM50m75, and AM50m95 showing how percentile variation turns into an almost linear change of average displacement registered during the sled test.

This research paper addresses the critical cybersecurity issues of healthcare IT systems. Through the use of artificial intelligence, specifically natural language processing (NLP) and advanced neural networks such as long short-term memory (LSTM), the study closely analyzes vulnerabilities documented in the National Vulnerability Database (NVD). The main objective is to identify patterns in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) datasets to predict Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) scores with high accuracy, which is of utmost importance in the healthcare sector where IT failures can have catastrophic consequences. The work aims not only to predict the potential impact on healthcare but also to prioritize the vulnerabilities according to their severity and their relevance to healthcare facilities. The vulnerability descriptions, vectors, and affected software configurations will be evaluated in detail. Through this analytical effort, the study will develop a differentiated framework for the early detection and professional management of IT security threats, aiming to strengthen the cybersecurity defenses of healthcare infrastructures. By contributing to the strategic anticipation and mitigation of risks, the research seeks to improve the resilience of critical healthcare systems and ensure the continuity and integrity of patient care.

This conference proceeding focuses on the evolution of the concept of biocompatibility, exploring its journey from ancient times to the present day. Evidence points to the use of biomaterials as far back as 5,000 years ago, showcasing early attempts to address medical challenges. Notably gold, which is biologically inert, emerged as a key biomaterial, utilized since the first millennium BC for fixing skull bones and teeth. But it would not take much longer for humanity to start making use of what we now consider bioactive materials, such as calcium carbonate from seashells as well as dentin and enamel harvested from animal sources or even other humans.Surprisingly, the formal definition of biomaterials remained rather vague until the latter half of the 20th century, with the first, comprehensive and widely accepted definition emerging only in 1991. This definition, which comprised both inert and bioactive substances, also emphasized the importance of improving the patients’ quality of life, something that was generally neglected until at least the end 19th century.This retrospective analysis investigates the historical and biological foundations of biocompatibility, tracing its progression from ancient applications rooted in empirical knowledge to the advanced medical implants of the modern era. By understanding this evolution, we gain insights into the foundations and challenges that have shaped and still shape the field of biomaterials science: “what makes a material biocompatible”, “how well will it perform over time” and “how much can still be done to improve its biocompatibility” being just a few examples.But the most difficult challenge, from a human and scientific point of view would probably be to accept that “there is no such a thing as a biocompatible material”.

In recent years, nanomaterials based on Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) have received great attention from biomedical research owing to their physicochemical properties, high biocompatibility, as well as cellular absorption and environmental sensitivity.This work briefly presents various growth techniques of LDHs, focusing the attention on how they can be modified and functionalized for biomedical applications, in particular bone generation, therapy, targeted and controlled release of drugs, gene release, ophthalmic activities, and bio-imaging.

The most important properties of metal medical devices are i) biocompatibility, ii) mechanical strength and, in some cases, iii) reliable osseointegration. The surface of biodevices can be designed and then modified to improve these properties.After a brief review of the technologies used to modify the surface of metallic biodevices, some examples of surface treatments used to improve their properties are given. The effect of acid etching on the surface shape of the metal material to improve implant osseointegration, to produce a surface with more ‘valleys’ than ‘peaks’, a requirement for improved osseointegration, is shown. It is demonstrated that the “shape” of the surface can be easily and quantitatively measured by using appropriate roughness parameters. In addition, to reduce the risk of implant rejection, nanoscale reservoirs for controlled drug delivery can be formed on the previously acid-etched implant surface. To this end, the methods used to grow titania nanotube dental screws from commercially pure titania are presented. The shape and length of the nanotubes can be varied to increase or decrease the duration of drug delivery as required.

This study explores the development of advanced anode electrodes for electroplating, leveraging the ‘dog-bone effect’ to optimize the deposition process for in homogeneously coated metal surfaces. The research primarily focuses on nickel, silver, and gold substrates, using specially shaped platinum anodes. Anode designs are based on electrochemical simulations via COMSOL Multiphysics, with special emphasis on the dog-bone effect to achieve different layer thicknesses. The uniquely shaped anodes enable controlled current density distributions, resulting in a coating pattern that reflects the anode’s geometry on the substrate. Prototypes of these anodes were produced and tested in a custom electroplating setup, allowing precise deposition on substrates. Key parameters like electrode current, voltage, distance, bath temperature, and circulation were meticulously controlled and optimized. Experimental outcomes affirmed simulation predictions, indicating that the shaped anodes impart a distinct coating characteristic to the substrate. The coatings were analyzed using techniques such as optical interferometry and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, confirming the varied layer thicknesses of the metals deposited. This research marks significant progress in anode design for electroplating processes, particularly in controlling the electrolytic coating process via the dog-bone effect. We demonstrate the advantage of prior design and simulations to improve process predictability, performance, and efficiency. This work stimulates further micro plating research and could advance high-performance coatings and innovative applications.

Although the biocompatibility and good mechanical properties make the magnesium and its alloys excellent candidates for biomedical applications, the high corrosion rate, involving hydrogen release and the alkalization of the physiological environment, limit their clinical use. However, this constrain could be exploited for the realization of biodegradable devices. In this regard, it is necessary to ensure a degradation rate comparable to the rate of growth of the hosting tissues, avoiding side effects, premature failures, and adverse reactions. The surface engineering approaches which involve the use of a coating made of single or multiple layers represent a possible method to tailor the deterioration rate. The poor adhesion strength between layers could be an important drawback of this approach. In the present research, a multilayer coating composed of an oxide layer, a bio-inspired polydopamine (PDA)-based one and a biodegradable polymer film, made of polylactic acid (PLA) has been realized on magnesium alloys substrates. The first layer was obtained by a plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) treatment to increase the corrosion resistance. Then, the polydopamine layer has been applied by the dip-coating method to improve the adhesion between the oxide layer and the polylactic acid film. Each layer and their combinations were characterized by using morphological examinations, and electrochemical test by means of potentiodynamic polarization (PD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods. The use of a multilayer coating has demonstrated to be a promising strategy to control the degradation rate of the magnesium alloys to produce biodegradable device.

Mg and Mg alloys are subjects of great interest in the scientific community due their unique properties for biodegradable implant applications (Young modulus and density close to that of human bone, good mechanical properties, biodegradability). The key challenge however is about their too high corrosion rate in human body environment. Some controversial statements are present in literature about the role of microstructure on corrosion resistance of Mg alloys in human body fluid; more investigations are indeed required. The aim of this work is to find a correlation between the microstructure and both corrosion and stress corrosion resistance of AZ31 undergone four ECAP passes. Results show that the best stress corrosion cracking resistance is provided by a partially recrystallized and textured microstructure made of a bimodal grain size distribution.

The work presents the results of Mechanical Spectroscopy (MS) tests carried out on AZ31, Co28Cr6Mo and Ti6Al4V alloys, materials of great interest for biomedical applications. Measures of dynamic modulus and internal friction (Q−1) vs. temperature reveal microstructural mechanisms not otherwise detectable through more conventional techniques. The results are discussed in view of the biomedical applications of these materials.

Ti Gr23 alloys are widely used in the manufacture of human implants and have recently been produced by L-PBF (Laser Powder Bed Fusion) techniques due to their good mechanical properties combined with good biocompatibility. The fatigue properties of these components are very important and are influenced by many parameters such as: surface finish, residual stresses and internal defects.This paper presents a detailed study of the effect of surface finish on the fatigue properties of Ti-Gr23 alloy produced by L-PBF. In this case, the samples are all produced in the vertical direction using two different LASER conditions. One part of the specimens was analysed under as-built conditions, one part was sandblasted and the last part was manually polished. The surface texture was then analysed using a stylus profilometer. Mechanical properties were then assessed by tensile tests and microhardness profiles acquired on specimens used for mechanical testing. Fatigue tests were then carried out under load control at R = −1 with a frequency of 40 Hz, starting from an initial stress of 40% of the tensile strength of the material. The fatigue limit was calculated using the Dixon Mood approach. A detailed SEM analysis of the fracture surface was carried out to determine the causes of failure in the failed specimens. The results obtained were then used to evaluate the local fatigue limit near the crack nucleation site using the Murakami model.The results showed an improvement in the fatigue properties of the surface treated specimens compared to the untreated specimens. No differences were observed in the effect of the LASER conditions.

Zn-base alloys have been recognized as promising biodegradable materials for structural biomedical applications thanks to their good biocompatibility and lower corrosion rate compared to Mg alloys. However, pure Zn has poor mechanical properties, and several strategies are adopted in order to improve them. In this study, novel biodegradable Zn-base alloys, for biodegradable stent applications, have been designed by adding different amount of non-toxic elements (Ag and Mn). The alloys were hot extruded at 250 ℃ and subsequently annealed at 410 ℃ for 6 h. The effect of alloying elements and heat treatment are discussed in terms of microstructure and mechanical properties.

Metallic lattice structures can be extremely useful in prosthesis development since their use allows the tuning of density and elastic modulus of the components. The latter effect is fundamental to control and avoid the so-called stress shielding effect, which is responsible for a progressive weakening of the bone tissue. This is typical for instance for hip endoprosthesis. In addition, the topology of lattice structures encourages bone tissue ingrowth into the prosthesis, representing a further advantage in terms of osteointegration of these biomedical devices.Additive Manufacturing represents the most suitable technology to manufacture prosthesis containing lattice structures since it allows a great freedom of design, which is hardly possible with conventional technologies. The design and characterization of these complex structures is crucial to develop reliable prosthesis, especially if the extreme variety of geometrical topologies is considered. Furthermore, lattice structures are frequently integrated into bulk structures or are connected to a bulk structure. In this case, also the interaction between the two parts has to be taken into account since the interface can represent a weak point when the component is loaded.In the present contribution, the microstructural and mechanical characterization of lattice structures produced with powder bed fusion technology using Ti6Al4V alloy is discussed. In detail, cylindrical lattice samples consisting of a solid external shell and an inner lattice part were manufactured and tested and the obtained results allowed a further understanding of the mechanical performance of these structures.

The emerging advances in biomimetic unique wettability, such as the self-cleaning lotus effect, creepy crawlies, flower petals, mosquito eyes, and gecko feet, among others have sparked a lot of interest recently. These superhydrophobic surfaces can be fabricated and developed by a facile coating of various metal oxide nanoparticles such as ZnO, TiO2, and SiO2 onto different substrates via a Sol-Gel method which is a convenient low-temperature technique to synthesize nanoparticles. This will improve the surface roughness and lower the contact angles resulting in the hydrophobic nature of the coated surfaces. This study focuses on creating superhydrophobic surfaces using Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles and characterizing them using various analytical techniques such as FT-IR, UV-visible spectrophotometry, XRD and nanoparticle size analysis. ZnO is chosen for its abundance, affordability, and safety in preparation. These ZnO nanoparticles are rendered superhydrophobic by incorporating Stearic Acid. The resulting Zinc Stearate nanoparticles are then tested on cotton fabric to assess their hydrophobic properties, demonstrating effective repulsion of water with the contact angle (CA) increased from 61.2° on the uncoated surface to 134.2° for the Zinc stearate coated fabric, confirming the excellent superhydrophobicity. If applied in the medical field, such as surgical instruments, hospital surfaces, and medical implants, this technology could significantly reduce the risk of infections and contamination. By integrating this approach into healthcare practices, we can improve patient safety, uphold higher standards of hygiene, and ultimately enhance healthcare outcomes and public health overall.

The role of the surface in biomaterials is relevant because most of biochemical reactions occur at their surface or interface. For instance, the chemical composition and structure of the surface of biomaterials can affect the biocompatibily with human tissues. Accordingly, the surface investigation techniques assume an important aspect in the development of biomaterials. There are many techniques employed to investigate the surface of biomaterials, but only a few of them provide information about the chemical composition of materials. Electron spectroscopies for chemical analysis (ESCA) represent the most valuable method for investigating the chemical composition of biomaterials by probing the first layer of the materials, below 10 nm. The advantage of these techniques lies in the opportunity to determine the chemical composition and its evolution in the different environments, providing the oxidation state of the elements and quantifying their abundance. In this presentation, an overview on X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS) will be illustrated. These techniques have been successfully employed for the investigation of metallic dental implant, antibacterial hydroxyapatite films, enzymes, etc.

Flexible nanocomposites play an increasing role as electrodes and sensors in wearable electronics and sensing elements in health monitoring and sports applications. Graphene-based flexible polymer nanocomposites, as well as polymers with metallic nanowire fillers are promising materials in this context. However, anticipation of electrical properties of hybrid flexible materials based on nanofillers are generally complex, when considering also their frequency and voltage dependencies, which need to be taken into account for the design of electrode materials for dedicated applications. This study showcases at the example of graphene-based silicone hybrid nanocomposites, with and without silver nanowires, striking effects of the nanofiller concentration and composition on the resistive and capacitive contributions of the electrical properties of hybrid nanocomposites. Trends of their mechanical and electrical properties, as analyzed by compressive strain-stress analysis and electrical impedance spectroscopy are discussed.

This article presents a methodology for the design and production of custom prostheses for complex surgical interventions on long bones due to oncological surgical treatment. This type of intervention considers the complete or partial removal of bone tissue that might be affected by bone tumors. In this scenario it is important to limit the loss of functionality of the patients’ joints. Accordingly, it is important to salvage, whenever possible, the original articulation surfaces of the joints; nevertheless, a complete evaluation of the tumor extension and of the state of bone tissue might be difficult to be performed in the preparation phase.The article presents an approach for geometrical modelling of a modular prosthesis for long bones, that leaves the surgeon free to tailor the resection according to their feedback in the operating theatre. Specifically, the devised methodology allows to salvage part of the original bone by switching modules of the prosthesis.The dissertation is tackled from a technical perspective, taking into account the constraints and key features that need to be considered in the design and production of a long bone prosthesis via additive manufacturing technologies.The methodology is presented with reference to a complex custom prosthesis design that was carried out with the support of T3Ddy’s - Personalized pediatrics by inTegrating 3D aDvanced technologies research laboratory.

The human skeleton is the frame of the human body and is made up of bones of different shapes and characteristics. Some of the bones in the human body must have high resistance to static and dynamic forces. These forces are also exerted on bone replacement implants, which must have a high level of robustness. Some of the most important properties of bone material, although different in various regions of the body, are tensile and compressive strength. These properties could be tuned for prosthetic applications by using lattice structures that can be varied in shape, unit cell size, and strut thickness.One technique that could be used to fabricate such structures is selective laser melting (SLM), which builds a three-dimensional object layer by layer from a metal powder. Another major advantage of this technology is the ability to create many different shapes, as there is a high degree of design freedom. In addition, various metal powders can be used in SLM, including those that could be used for implants such as titanium. Another major advantage of this manufacturing process is the ability to easily customize the process to the size, shape, and other characteristics of the patient’s bone structure.This work demonstrates the potential to adjust the tensile properties of objects with specific external dimensions by incorporating lattice structures and tailor them. This can impact both the ultimate tensile strength and maximum elongation, providing an opportunity for future research to more accurately replicate the properties of bone material and thereby establish an additively manufacturable bone replica for stress analysis in medical and sports research. Additionally, the surface roughness Ra, which measures approximately 10 to 15 µm, did not appear to have any significant effect on the tensile strength.

This paper examines the capabilities of injection moulding in the production of medical devices, with a particular focus on the potential of additive manufacturing in the construction of cooling channels. Conventionally, cooling channels in injection moulds have been limited to linear configurations. However, the size, integration and structure of the cooling channels have a massive impact on cooling efficiency, part quality, cycle time and overall process efficiency. This leads to the need for new structural manufacturing methods. The introduction of additive manufacturing offers freedom of design and the ability to create cooling channels that conform to the tool’s geometry. With the new advantages introduced by additive manufacturing come new difficulties and innovations in the development of conformal cooling channels. Examined through a case study of a medical component in this paper. Producing cooling channels that conform to the complex contours of the mould requires complex design processes. This paper investigates the challenges of designing these channels to ensure precision and efficiency in the development of conformal cooling channels. A key focus is the comparative analysis between optimised cooling channels, crafted through additive manufacturing, and their conventionally machined counterparts. Using simulation techniques, the study examines the reduced temperatures achieved by the conformal channels compared to their conventional counterparts. The implications of integrating additive manufacturing into the injection moulding tool for medical devices are also discussed. By incorporating additive manufacturing into the process of creating the cooling channels, increased efficiency and reduced temperature are achieved, as demonstrated by the simulation results. Within the scope of this study, emphasis is placed on investigating the potential impact on part quality, manufacturing speed, and overall process efficiency, beyond the immediate benefits observed in cooling channel design.

The availability of consumer-grade 3D printers has sparked innovative applications in research, particularly in engineering and medicine. Fused filament fabrication (FFF) has drastically accelerated iterative prototyping, while direct ink writing (DIW) of, e.g., hydrogels holds promise in medical applications. However, commercial bioprinters are not yet available at low cost.The primary objective was to establish a cost-effective and easily accessible system, reducing barriers for researchers to engage in biomaterial- and bio-printing for small-volume extrusions (SVEn). A Creality Ender 3 V2 was used as a base due to the machine’s open-source nature, the availability of software and hardware files, and its wide popularity and availability. All structural parts were printed via FFF, and the necessary mechanical components are cheap, widely available, and typically found in 3D printers. No modifications to the electrical wiring were required, and firmware adaptations were implemented via g-code commands prior to printing. The extruder was designed to fit the Ender 3 mounting plate. With adaptations to the mounting mechanism, it can be used on other cartesian-style 3D printers. The DIW extruder system is designed to be operated with a 5 mL syringe. Conventional cell culture ware (well plates and Petri dishes) and FFF 3D printed surfaces and textiles can be used as printing surfaces. Printed substrates (e.g., alginate, gelatin, pastes) represent a variety of processable viscosities and enable the processing of viable cells. The extrusion system presented herein may constitute a valuable tool for developing novel treatments in the medical field.

In the field of medical education and training for human and veterinary physicians, there is a high demand for high-precision organ models that accurately reproduce the natural anatomy. These models should not only accurately reproduce the shape, color and texture of the organs, but also enable a realistic simulation of various diagnostic procedures. For the diagnosis of pathologies such as cysts, tumors, ruptures, hemorrhages and pneumatoceles, palpation and various imaging techniques such as ultrasound, X-ray, computed tomography (CT) and endoscopy are used.The present study focuses mainly on the further development of shaping processes for training models in order to optimize the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of production. Various mixtures of hydrogels and related biomaterials are being systematically analyzed. A particular focus is on ultrasound imaging. Secondary parameters such as pot life, cross-linking kinetics and mold integrity are also crucial to ensure reproducibility and reliability. The main objective is to develop models that not only offer precise diagnostic performance in ultrasound imaging, but also perform convincingly in various diagnostic modalities.

Generalized Fibonacci sequences are Fibonacci sequences that start with positive integers—called seeds—other than 0 and 1. They have been very recently used to temporally characterize cyclic human movements such as walking, running, and swimming. Within such sequences, the golden ratio describes, in terms of durations of specific gait/stroke-subphases, self-similar patterns: they are experimentally exhibited not only by healthy walking subjects—harmonic proportions might be reduced or destroyed by disorders with neurological implications—but also by elite swimmers. Quantitative indices have been accordingly defined to unveil hidden self-similar & time-harmonic structures while providing an estimate of how much the larger-scale structure resembles the smaller-scale structure through the generation of a self-referential loop. In this paper, all such different scenarios are first reviewed from above and stitched together on a common logical platform, to provide the readers with a comprehensive view of the issue while allowing them to follow and define new research directions. One among them, involving the fascinating tennis framework, is successfully highlighted in detail.

Motorsports is the most watched sport in the world and has millions of television viewers. Despite having this media coverage, the figure of the driver has been recognized as an athlete in the last decade. It was realized that in order to achieve better performance, in addition to the engineering and mechanical part, the rider’s physical condition must also be improved. The rider’s body is subjected to many forces during racing. It will be explored in depth how these aspects can negatively affect the body and how to counteract their negative effects with both preventive and compensatory exercises specifically designed.

The objective of this pilot study is to examine the connection between running speed and myoelectric activity, as assessed during a progressive 25 m shuttle running trial. Four male young soccer players (n = 4) aged 17 ± 1.1 years, with an average body mass of 66.8 ± 3.6 kg and average body height of 1.72 ± 0.08 m, from a professional Italian youth team (Italian “Primavera”), volunteered as participants for this study. During testing, players’ running speed was assessed using GPS technology, sampling at 50 Hz. Myoelectric activity of the gluteus, hamstrings, and quadriceps muscles was captured through wearable sEMG devices, sampled at a higher frequency of 100 Hz. To ensure synchronization of sampling rates, the sEMG data was downsampled to 50 Hz, matching the sampling rate of the GPS data. This facilitated direct comparison and analysis of the data obtained from both measurement systems. The collected data was then analyzed to determine the relationship between the variables under investigation and any potential differences associated with different sides of the body. The results revealed a robust correlation (r2 ≈ 0.98) between the speed of the participants (m × s−1) and their myoelectrical activity (μV) during the test. A two-way factorial ANOVA and a three-way factorial ANOVA revealed significant differences between sides and muscle groups, albeit with trivial magnitudes. In conclusion, the relationship between GPS and sEMG appears promising, suggesting the need for further investigation with larger sample sizes.

A method to characterize the performance of any potential kayak paddler is developed in this work. It is based on a one-dimensional displacement model which reduces the coupled paddler-kayak dynamics into a six-dimensional parametric space. This dimension might be further reduced by considering a composed dimensionless magnitude which characterizes the propulsion and choosing appropriately the magnitude representing the displacement of the kayak. These considerations reduce the dimension first to three and finally to a two-dimension space. Previously published elite paddler data are used as a reference one to define a front and to characterize sub-elite paddler data obtained by us. The results show that in terms of stroke efficiency sub-elite paddlers reach values similar or even better than reported for elite ones. However in terms of kayak performance their results are worse, below the elite men paddlers and close to the elite women ones, as expected.

An in-depth examination of human movement proves invaluable for healthcare professionals and trainers, facilitating targeted interventions for specific pathologies, assessing movement compensation in post-injury activity, or identifying particular technical flaws. The exploited video analysis system excels in extracting pivotal features associated with subjects’ movements, and it has been successfully used in diverse scenarios, encompassing clinical contexts with neurodegenerative disease patients and sports environments with both amateur and professional athletes. Wearable inertial devices can provide comparable information, although they may involve, due to their invasiveness, a possible alteration of the specific movement. Nevertheless, they are very useful when video analysis cannot be used due to occlusions or other recording difficulties. This preliminary study aims to integrate movement measurements obtained through a marker less video analysis system that leverages artificial intelligence techniques with those acquired through inertial sensors directly placed on subjects.

Whole-body vibration (WBV) has gained increasing attention as a potential tool in improving sports performance. WBV involves using vibrating platforms to expose the entire body to mechanical vibrations, leading to neuromuscular adaptations. This review paper aims to provide an overview of the different effects of WBV on various aspects of sports performance, including strength, power, and flexibility, and clarify the possible benefits and limitations of this technology in sports. The review was conducted on English-language articles published in the last 20 years (2003–2023). 109 articles were selected in PubMed, Scopus, World of Science and IEEE Xplore databases. Several studies have examined the impact of WBV on strength gains with discordant results. For example, some studies report improvement in muscle strength and power, especially in the lower limbs. Contrarily, others do not show any significant improvement. Other researches have explored the impact of WBV on flexibility, offering potential benefits. The neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the effects of WBV, while not yet fully understood, appear to include increased recruitment of motor units, increased reflex activity, and alterations in the sensitivity of neuromuscular spindles. In conclusion, WBV is a promising technology with great potential in various fields of application in sports training, such as the development of strength, power, and flexibility, if properly used. Further studies are still needed to deeply understand the effects on the human body, establish the optimal parameters for integrating WBV into training, refine protocols, and explore the long-term effects of WBV on athletic performance.

Mental skills play a crucial role in sports performance, distinguishing between winning and losing. Paradoxically, almost all high-level tennis athletes say convincingly that the mental aspect is the most critical aspect of the game, and then seeing that it is trained either not at all or very little, certainly less than the physical and technical-tactical aspect. Although there is a growing interest in mental training in professional sports, there are few methods of assessing mental performance, mainly questionnaires and rating scales. Our study, centered on tennis and easily extendable to other sports, attempts to give as objective an answer as possible through numerical evaluation to this contradiction, albeit with the understanding that a completely objective assessment is impossible in assessing mental abilities. Using the basic three IO scheme of E. BERNE’s Transactional Analysis, it was possible to trace a numerical evaluation of five parameters of mental energy distribution and, thus, cognitive performance while being aware of the limitations and approximations of this system. The assessment is done by observing the athlete’s on-court behavior and the fundamental support of a mobile app called EGOGRAMS. These five numbers, represented in a columnar graph, represent the athlete’s mental performance (Egogram), and when correlated with the positive (victory) or negative (defeat) outcome of the game, allow for the player’s winning Egogram.

Sports injuries occurring to athletes of various disciplines, pose significant challenges to both athletes and healthcare professionals. This work focuses the attention on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the prevention of sports injuries and rehabilitation strategies. The large number of papers found in recent literature indicates an increasing interest on the topic. This work reports and discusses the main achievements and illustrates the possible future AI applications to sports medicine which open a completely new scenario.

Functional evaluation plays an important role in determining suitable training programs for elite athletes. For athletes with Intellectual Impairment, it may represent an even more powerful tool as it allows to obtain quantitative feedbacks (when qualitative ones are hard to collect). This study presents practical examples in the context of strength assessment tests carried out in the functional evaluation project of the Italian Sport Federation for athletes with Intellectual Impairment (FISDIR). In particular, a useful customized tool for the assessment of explosive strength in sprinters, based on biomechanical indices, is presented. The proposed approach starts with the definition of key biomechanical parameters in terms of spatiotemporal, kinematic, kinetics, energetic and joint angles related to each main phase of the test. According to the literature and technical recommendations, reference target values for each parameter are defined and normalized. In addition, a quick graphical visualization was designed. Finally, two synthetic indices related to the performance and execution are developed. Practical implications in squat jump test are presented. The proposed methodology represents a useful customized tool for improving training in athletes with Intellectual Impairment.

Running is a popular and extremely accessible activities, whether recreational or competitive, enjoyed by people worldwide and its health benefits are remarkable. However, the percentage of running injuries (RI) is quite high, especially in recreational joggers. RI are undoubtedly multifactorial but the biomechanic aspects play a key role in injury onset and development. Considering this, the purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two types of biofeedback interventions on running pattern: with sensorized insoles (GI) and with video-analysis (GA). 30 recreational runners (age 31.4 ± 10.9 years) were randomly assigned to the biofeedback intervention + sensorized insole (n = 15, GI) or video-analysis (n = 15, GA) groups. The kinematics parameters as cadence, step length, ground contact time, flight time and step width were collected before and after the intervention at the same self-selected speed. The acquisitions were carried out on sensorized treadmill for 90 s each followed by 5 min passive rest. Prior to the intervention participants were asked to complete a 51 open question and multiple-choice items to assess epidemiological data and information about past muscular-skeletal injuries and current painful symptoms. All variables were evaluated at the baseline and following the biofeedback intervention, done immediately after the first acquisition. The statistical method used for data analysis was T-Test or Mann Whitney U-Test for parametric and non-parametric groups. Results: After the biofeedback intervention, the groups did not show statistically significant variations on kinematics variables. Kinematics outcomes remained similar to the baseline values. This intervention study aims to provide a better understanding of the biofeedback efficacy on running techniques in order to tailored more individualized exercise programs, however, findings seem to discourage this type of approach since no correction of the underlying biomechanical defect occurred.

Flatwater sprint canoeing is a cyclic sport where the paddler, through the use of a double or single paddle, applies the force in the water to overcome the drag (friction, surface, and wave) and cover in a short time the race distances.The two disciplines, kayaking (K1-K2-K4), and canoe (C1-C2-C4), are different from the biomechanical point of view on the force application. The flatwater kayak athletes are seated on the boat and apply the force through a synchronized action of upper limbs that hold a double-blade paddle, trunk rotations, pelvis seat bond, and push of lower limbs on the footrest to balance the forces acting on the boat. On the contrary, in canoeing the athletes are in a kneeling position holding a single-blade paddle. To maximize the acceleration, the force application depends on the synchronized action of upper limbs, trunk flexion, and knee bond. Some of these aspects can be measured with sensor systems. For kayaking, there are several devices useful to monitor the performance through the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and instrumented paddle. Instead, for canoe performance the scientific literature is poor and dated or used an invasive method to measure the paddle force. This study aims to show the potential advantages and limits of the e-kayak system in monitoring the kinematic and dynamic parameters of the paddlers’ performance in both kayaking and sprint canoeing disciplines.