ISES

Sleep disorders can cause different symptoms in women and men. This is also true for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), in which sleep is repeatedly interrupted by pauses in breathing (apneas). If left untreated, this sleep disorder can negatively impact health, for example by leading to cardiovascular diseases. Because women often report different symptoms than men, this can lead to misdiagnosis or delays in diagnosis for them.

In the "ISES" project (Interactive Sleep Monitoring System for the Early Detection of Gender-Specific Sleep Disorders) an AI-based sleep monitoring system is being developed to investigate gender-specific differences in OSAS and incorporate them into care. In addition to evaluating reported symptoms, it aims to enable a data-driven assessment of sleep disorders. The researchers are thus investigating whether mobile sensor and analysis methods could improve diagnosis and care in the primary care setting for all genders.

A technological demonstrator is designed to record breathing and heart rate via radar technology, oxygen saturation via an SpO2 sensor, and brain activity via a mobile ExG system^*. It is being tested in collaboration with general practices in Oldenburg in patients’ homes. The data collected will be analyzed for gender differences using AI analysis algorithms. This is based on analyses of retrospective data.

Tasks of the project partners

The Fraunhofer IDMT in Oldenburg contributes its expertise in sensor technology for mobile sleep monitoring. In the "ISES" project, the researchers are focusing on developing the sensor and recording platform. Among other things, they are using self-developed electrode patches for simple, comfortable ExG recording and novel radar recording methods. In addition, the Fraunhofer IDMT is overseeing data collection from 27 patients. Subsequently, the institute is responsible for gender-specific data analysis and AI model development.

avisé labs GmbH is coordinating the project as well as designing and developing the software and interaction platform for the demonstrator. The long-term goal is for general practitioners’ offices to be able to derive diagnostic information from the collected data using the system after only a brief training period. Brain Products GmbH is supplying a miniaturized amplifier for recording high-quality EEG signals. Carl von Ossitzky University of Oldenburg is responsible for the technology testing concept and coordinating collaboration with general practitioners’ offices. The Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg is involved in the project by conducting requirements analysis and the consideration of gender-specific aspects.

^*The system is designed to record an EEG (electroencephalogram), an EOG (electrooculogram), and an EMG (electromyogram), collectively referred to as ExG.