Personal Relationship
My uncle's name can be shortened to a synonym for wealth and originated in the Old High German language
What is Richard
This lightweight metal is commonly used in prosthetic limbs because it is strong, corrosion-resistant, and biocompatible.
What is titanium
This primary benefit of modern prosthetics improves a user’s ability to perform daily tasks independently
What is increased mobility
This technology allows prosthetic hands to respond to electrical signals from residual muscles
What is myoelectric control
This type of signal from muscle contractions is detected by electrodes in myoelectric prosthetics
What are electromyographic (EMG) signals
My uncle lives and works in this state known for its unique Polynesian-influenced culture
What is Hawaii
This design approach focuses on making prosthetics easy and comfortable for the user to control and wear daily
What is user-centered design
Beyond physical function, prosthetics significantly influence this aspect of a person’s well-being related to confidence and identity
What is psychological (or emotional) well-being
Researchers are developing this interface to directly connect prosthetics with the nervous system for improved control
What is a brain-computer interface (BCI)
This condition, where amputees feel sensations in a missing limb, is still not fully understood
What is phantom limb sensation (or phantom limb pain)
In Hawaii’s warm, humid climate, my uncle must carefully consider this skin-related issue when fitting prosthetic sockets
What is skin irritation
This socket design uses suction or vacuum pressure to improve limb attachment and reduce skin irritation
What is a vacuum-assisted suspension system
This global issue affects access to advanced prosthetic devices in low-income countries
What is healthcare inequality (or limited access to care)
This manufacturing method allows custom prosthetics to be rapidly produced at lower cost using layered materials
What is 3D printing
This biological challenge occurs when the body reacts negatively to implanted materials
What is an immune response (or biocompatibility rejection)
My uncle works for this company specializing in prosthetic limbs personalized to each patient
What is Advanced Prosthetics & Orthotics of the Pacific
Engineers must consider this biomechanical principle to ensure a prosthetic foot mimics natural walking motion
What is gait mechanics (or gait cycle biomechanics)
The introduction of microprocessor-controlled knees has significantly reduced this common risk for amputees
What is falling (or fall risk)
This sensory advancement would allow users to feel pressure, temperature, or texture through their prosthetic limb
What is sensory feedback
This surgical technique reroutes nerves to different muscles to improve prosthetic control
What is targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR)
This relative of Kate works in the prosthetic device industry
Who is her uncle
This trade-off in prosthetic design involves balancing advanced functionality with affordability and accessibility
This trade-off in prosthetic design involves balancing advanced functionality with affordability and accessibility
This ethical concern arises when prosthetics potentially enhance abilities beyond typical human limits
What is human enhancement ethics (or transhumanism concerns)
This emerging field combines robotics, AI, and biology to create prosthetics that adapt and learn from user behavior
What is intelligent or AI-driven prosthetics (or bionics)
This long-term complication can occur when bone grows into soft tissue after amputation
What is heterotopic ossification