Abstract: Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a type of arrhythmia characterized by irregular heartbeats, with four types, two of which are complicated to diagnose using standard techniques such as Electrocardiogram (ECG). However, and because smart wearables are increasingly a piece of commodity equipment, there are several ways of detecting and predicting AF episodes using only an ECG exam, allowing physicians easier diagnosis. By searching several databases, this study presents a review of the articles published in the last ten years, focusing on those who reported studies using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for prediction of AF. The results show that only twelve studies were selected for this systematic review, where three of them applied deep learning techniques (25%), six of them used machine learning methods (50%) and three others focused on applying general artificial intelligence models (25%). To conclude, this study revealed that the prediction of AF is yet an under-developed field in the context of AI, and deep learning techniques are increasing the accuracy, but these are not as frequently applied as it would be expected. Also, more than half of the selected studies were published since 2016, corroborating that this topic is very recent and has a high potential for additional research.

Abstract: This dissertation presents research on the construction of predictive models for health conditions through the application of Artificial Intelligence methods. The work is thus focused on the prediction, in the short and long term, of Atrial Fibrillation conditions through the analysis of Electrocardiography exams, with the use of several techniques to reduce noise and interference, as well as their representation through spectrograms and their application in Artificial Intelligence models, specifically Deep Learning. The training and testing processes of the models made use of a publicly available database. In its two approaches, predictive algorithms were obtained with an accuracy of 96.73% for a short horizon prediction and 96.52% for long Atrial Fibrillation prediction horizon. The main objectives of this dissertation are thus the study of works already carried out in the area during the last decade, to present a new methodology of prediction of the presented condition, as well as to present and discuss its results, including suggestions for improvement for future development.

Abstract: Fusion multidisciplinary subjects in order to present a unique and complementary perspective may enhance and extend the knowledge acquisition, and consequently, the student experience. In this paper we report a case study on methodology, which interlinks various subjects creating and engaging learning process by combining Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Design. In line with this, an Experimental Interaction Design summer course was designed and implemented based on a multi-cultural, defiant and creative environment in order to provide an effective learning on solving the real-world challenges. Twelve students were involved in this initiative, which resulted in the development of several projects such as a pets’ tracking and behavior analysis, a smart home for elderlies, and a medication reminder device, in which design, prototyping, usability evaluation and programming concepts were combined. In this report, we focus on the study design with the aim to provide scaffolding for multidisciplinary teams of students in design-based projects that require STEM competences.