• 8th Barcelona VPH Summer School

    The 8th Barcelona VPH Summer School will be held on June 2-6, 2025, and will focus on Integrative Medicine. Stay tuned!

  • Pitches & Start-ups

    Jordi Mill (UPF) Pitches: VIDAA Abstract: VIDAA is a 3D web-based platform that supports doctors to make better decisions during a clinical procedure called left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO), important for treating atrial fibrillation, and avoiding stroke. The LAAO is a procedure that helps to prevent these complications by closing off a small part of the heart (the left atrial appendage) where blood can pool and form clots. However, LAAO procedures are complex because every patient’s heart is different. Doctors need to choose the best device for each patient and […]

  • The journey from academia to entrepreneurship

    Júlia Rodríguez-Comas (Sycai Medical) The journey from academia to entrepreneurship Abstract: Transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship is a journey filled with complexity and emotion, regardless of one’s career stage or destination. In 2020, I embarked on this transition, concluding an academic trajectory that began with my doctoral studies in 2014. This journey led to the founding of Sycai Medical, a pioneering startup dedicated to advancing the detection and classification of pre-cancerous lesions in the upper abdominal organs through innovative radiological imaging technology. Starting with just three co-founders, Sycai Medical has evolved […]

  •  Mechanical Plasticity in Extracellular Matrices. Does it matter? 

    Andrea Malandrino  Mechanical Plasticity in Extracellular Matrices. Does it matter?  Abstract: In this talk I will focus on the mechanics and dynamics of extracellular matrix-like materials, such as soft hydrogels, when subjected to cellular forces. In particular, the talk will focus on the cell-dependent remodelling of fibrous biopolymers, such as fibrin and collagen, and the connection to classical mechanical theories, such as viscoplasticity. I will present a range of experimental in vitro systems (microfluidic cultures, microtissues, single cells) and modelling techniques (discrete and continuum) based on high resolution imaging data […]

  • Recent Advances in Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) Models of Osteoporosis – Pathways to optimise and exploit existing drug treatments

    Javier Reina Recent Advances in Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) Models of Osteoporosis – Pathways to optimise and exploit existing drug treatments Abstract: Osteoporosis (OP) is a chronic bone disease which is characterised by bone mass loss and changes in the bone matrix properties which can ultimately lead to bone fracture. There are various forms of OP, which can be related to aging, menopause or the consumption of certain drugs (e.g., corticosteroids, hormonal contraceptives, etc.). With the increase of the elderly population, age-related OP in particular poses a serious health issue which puts […]

  • Quantum generative models for healthcare

    Miguel A. González Ballester (UPF) Quantum generative models for healthcare Abstract: This talk will focus on the young discipline of quantum machine learning (QML), which is focused on the design, development and application of novel methods for data analysis based on quantum computing, Quantum computing is known to outperform classical computers in tasks such as unstructured search (Grover’s algorithm) and factorization (Shor’s algorithm), fundamental to applications such as cryptography. QML explores the potential benefits of quantum representations and mechanisms such as superposition and entanglement for massively parallel processing. Current research is […]

  • Efficient musculoskeletal simulations including mesh-based contact pressure models

    Gil Serrancoli (UPC) Efficient musculoskeletal simulations including mesh-based contact pressure models Abstract: Full-body musculoskeletal simulations are essential for understanding human movement dynamics, solving for kinematics, muscle forces, and external forces, like ground reaction forces, concurrently. While these simulations yield valuable insights, this information might be limited if one needs to predict full-body movements with a criterion involving detailed joint pressures. This could be crucial to study the effect of a surgery or a rehabilitation treatment on the full-body forces in silico. Optimal control methods have emerged as powerful tools for solving musculoskeletal […]

  • Multi-Omics Data Fusion for Enabling Precision Medicine

    Natasa Przulj (ICREA) Multi-Omics Data Fusion for Enabling Precision Medicine Abstract: Large quantities of heterogeneous, interconnected, systems-level, molecular (multi-omic) data are increasingly becoming available. They provide complementary information about cells, tissues and diseases. We need to utilize them to better stratify patients into risk groups, discover new biomarkers, re-purpose known and discover new drugs to personalize medical treatment. This is nontrivial, because of computational intractability of many underlying problems on large interconnected data (networks, or graphs), necessitating the development of new algorithms for finding approximate solutions (heuristics). We develop a versatile […]

  • Transforming Ideas into Funded Projects: Expert Insights on Proposal Writing

    Jérôme Noailly (UPF) Transforming Ideas into Funded Projects: Expert Insights on Proposal Writing Abstract: In this presentation, Prof. Jérôme Noailly will outline the essential strategies for crafting compelling proposals and securing funding for innovative projects. He will explore key elements that make proposals stand out, including clear objectives, strong justifications, and well-defined outcomes. Emphasizing the importance of tailoring proposals to specific funders, he will share insights on aligning project goals with funding priorities. Additionally, he will discuss the significance of demonstrating impact through data and storytelling. Practical tips on budget planning and project […]

  • MiWEndo: from the idea to the clinical validation

      Marta Guardiola (MiWEndo) MiWEndo: from the idea to the clinical validation Abstract: In this presentation, I will showcase the steps I have taken to develop a medical device for early detection of  colorectal cancer using innovative microwave technology. The journey begins with the initial idea, which arose during my research stage at UPF, and extends to the current phase with a 4-year-old established company comprising a multidisciplinary team of 23 individuals. We are currently conducting clinical trials and submitting regulatory documentation to obtain market authorization in Europe. The presentation […]

  • Strategies for Human-Machine Readable Data Curation

    Francis Chemorion (InsilicoTrials) Strategies for Human-Machine Readable Data Curation Abstract: Data curation stands at the forefront of enhancing interoperability and utility for datasets across scientific and technological domains, ensuring both human and machine readability. The intricate process involves management, preservation, and annotation of data, underpinned by a strong emphasis on metadata quality, standardized formats, and data integrity. Addressing the dual challenge of making data machine-readable through the adoption of ontologies and data schemas while also ensuring human readability with intuitive documentation and visualization, is critical for bridging the gap between raw […]

  • Accelerating Osteoarthritis Research with Artificial Intelligence Keynote Lecture

    Aleksei Tiulpin (OULU) Accelerating Osteoarthritis Research with Artificial Intelligence Keynote Lecture  Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common musculoskeletal disease that has no cure. The only available treatment for the end-stage of the disease is total joint replacement, and costs billions of dollars worldwide to manage direct and indirect costs of OA. One of the biggest challenges in OA is a very long time for disease development, which makes the drug development cycle very slow. Large observational cohorts like Osteoarthritis Initiative and Multicenter Osteoarthritis studies have been the gold standard datasets […]

  • Can models faster reach clinical settings? An epidemiological perspective

    Roger Compte (KCL) Can models faster reach clinical settings? An epidemiological perspective Abstract: Advancements in data availability and computational capabilities have spurred the development of numerous in-silico models targeting medical applications. Many of these models are designed to aid in clinical decision-making and diagnostic processes. However, the journey to validate and integrate these models into real clinical settings is arduous and resource-intensive. Regulatory bodies, recognizing the novelty and diverse applications of these models, proceed cautiously, complicating the process of medical approval. Nevertheless, despite the challenges in direct implementation, alternative pathways exist […]

  • Modulating intervertebral disc catabolism in in vitro and ex vivo systems: IL-4 and IL-10 metabolic role in intervertebral disc degeneration.

    Paola Bermudez-Lekerika (University of Bern) Modulating intervertebral disc catabolism in in vitro and ex vivo systems: IL-4 and IL-10 metabolic role in intervertebral disc degeneration. Abstract: Lower back pain (LBP) is a highly prevalent, chronic, and costly medical issue worldwide primarily caused by Intervertebral Disc (IVD) degeneration. An IVD consists of an avascular proteoglycan rich nucleus pulposus (NP) laterally constrained by the peripheral fibre-reinforced annulus fibrosus (AF), situated between two cartilaginous end plates (CEP) responsible for nutrient and oxygen transport. During degeneration, IVD ageing is accelerated, leading to pathological structural changes […]

  • The Experimental Exploration of the Microbiome in the Intervertebral Disc

    Andrea Nüesch (University of Sheffield) The Experimental Exploration of the Microbiome in the Intervertebral Disc Abstract: Low back pain (LBP) is a burden to both individuals and societies worldwide. Lumbar disc degeneration (LDD), disc herniations and Modic changes have been identified as possible pain sources, but these structural changes can be found in asymptomatic people as well. Vertebral bone marrow lesions visualised as Modic changes (MC) on magnetic resonance imaging have been associated with disc degeneration. For MC type I two different aetiologies have been identified. An autoimmune response of the bone […]

  • Molecular biomarkers as a tool for precision medicine strategies in osteoarthritis

    Cristina Ruiz-Romero (SERGAS) Molecular biomarkers as a tool for precision medicine strategies in osteoarthritis Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most prevalent and disabling rheumatic diseases and therefore causes a significant public health burden. Globally, cases of OA increased by 113% in the last three decades, and the prevalence of OA is expected to increase even further as the population ages and becomes more obese. Although articular cartilage degeneration has been traditionally considered the hallmark of OA, recent studies describe it as a whole-joint disorder. Importantly, there is currently no cure […]

  • Hands on presentations & Certificates

  • Accelerate Osteoarthritis Research with AI

    Accelerating Osteoarthritis Research with Artificial Intelligence by Aleksei Tiulpin (OULU) Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common musculoskeletal disease that has no cure. The only available treatment for the end-stage of the disease is total joint replacement, and costs billions of dollars worldwide to manage direct and indirect costs of OA. One of the biggest challenges in OA is a very long time for disease development, which makes the drug development cycle very slow. Large observational cohorts like Osteoarthritis Initiative and Multicenter Osteoarthritis studies have been the gold standard datasets to […]

  • The Human Digital Twin Summer School Barcelona

    The Human Digital Twin Summer School Barcelona will be held on June 3-7, 2024, and will focus on Models and Simulation in Translational Research.  The Human Digital Twin Barcelona Summer School series is co-organized by BCN MedTech at the Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) and by the Barcelona International Summer School (BISS), with the collaboration of the UPF department of Medicine and Life Science and the QUAES Foundation. It provides junior engineers, early researchers and medical doctors with an integrative view of state-of-the-art research for in silico medicine, following a […]

  • Disc4All 4th Winter School, Leuven, Belgium

    The Winter School is a cornerstone event in Disc4All calendar, bringing together experts and enthusiasts in the field of in silico medicine. This year, we are focusing on the following topics: Business Strategy: Exploring market trends, stakeholder analyses, funding opportunities, leadership and the intricacies of due diligence. Clinical Outreach: Engaging healthcare providers and discussing the implications and potential of our work. Models and Simulation in Medicine: Delving into risk management, liability issues, and the 3Rs (Replace, Reduce, Refine). Translational Research: Bridging gaps between medicine, in silico practices, and regulatory frameworks.

  • Disc4All Focussed Advanced Training Event

    The Disc4All focussed advanced training event will take place in the Rochester, USA in December 2023. It will host expert keynotes by worldwide leading researchers. It will include a selection of Disc4All research presentations given by the ESRs and their supervisors. It will also host a practical workshop on genomics in the RIT Genomics Research Lab, contextualized by Prof Karin Wuertz-Kozak.

  • 3rd Disc4All Winter School, Athens, Greece

    Training in International policy & Regulation for new health technologies, Business innovation in translational medicine, Health Technology Assessment, Business strategy (IPR, business models, business canvas) and Communication.

  • 7th Barcelona VPH SUMMER SCHOOL

    The 7th VPH Summer School will be held on June 5-9, 2023, and will focus on Models interoperability and reuse.  Registration fees: On-site fees include: participation in all activities, coffee breaks, lunch, Catalan beer tasting and farewell drinks. Early Bird ticket (online and on site) only until 28th of February 2023! Register now! 

  • 6th Barcelona VPH Summer School

    6th Barcelona VPH Summer School

  • Disc4All Winter School 2022

    Please, register now for the Disc4All EU Project Winter School that is going to take place 21-25 February. This is a physical attendance only event with #translationalresearch on the #intervertebral_disc and #orthopedics. Registration Deadline is 31 December 2021.

  • 5th Barcelona VPH Summer School

    The 5th VPH Summer School will be held ONLINE, on June 7-11, 2021, and will focus on Tackling Complexity in Health & Medicine.  Resulta difícil imaginar la vida sin medicamentos con receta o sin las farmacias que los venden. La parte cómoda de nuestras vidas ha dependido de las píldoras y pastillas desde que nacimos. Si un marido quiere algo de su mujer, puede ir a la tienda a comprarlo o tomarse una pastilla.

  • First Disc4All Winter School

    The first Disc4All Winter School kicks off this MSCA Innovative Training Network virtually, hosted by the University of Oulu. In a week long programme it combines the internal activities of the Disc4All consortium with a series of open public workshops around the topics of translational medicine as applied to the problem of intervertebral disc degeneration. Cialis, le premier et maintenant le seul choix quand il s’agit de la dose de tadalafil à action rapide que vous attendiez. clomid ou viagra ? eh bien, il y a quelques faits qui doivent […]