Projects
Visual factors to predict human aesthetic preferences for images: A deep-learning approach based on Fast Fourier Convolution and Vision Transformers KU Leuven
The main goal of this PhD thesis is to develop a deep-learning model to predict human aesthetic preferences for images. The starting point is the existence of a benchmark preference data set, collected in an extensive online study with large samples of images of everyday scenes and paintings and large samples of observers (collected by a PhD student in psychology, who also works on the larger project to which both PhDs belong). The ...
Kenniscentrum Cultuuronderzoek 2023-2027 - werkjaar 2023 Ghent University
"Enhancing genetic diversity in the genus of Geranium" Ghent University
A Community Approach for Schistosomiasis Prevention through a Behavior Change Intervention. A sociological Analysis integrating a citizen science approach among selected communities of Western Uganda. University of Antwerp
Should Communicative and Social Robots Mitigate Loneliness? A normative approach to the post-human communication condition. University of Antwerp
Development and validation of the in vitro microfold cell model to investigate the role of breastmilk antibodies in infant protection against pertussis. University of Antwerp
EQUALSTRENGTH : From one closed door to another: Cumulative discrimination and prejudice against marginalised groups in Europe Vrije Universiteit Brussel
hate crimes against ethnic, racial and religious minorities from a cross-setting and intersectional perspective. We deploy innovative,
targetted and effective methods, which include field experiments, population-level secondary survey data, meso-level policy analysis
and targeted data collection ...
Nanoparticles-mediated phototherapies in 3D cancer models KU Leuven
In the 21st century, cancer is expected to grow into the leading cause of death in every country. Traditional therapies’ limitations, e.g. systemic toxicity, or invasiveness, underscore the need for more effective and selective therapeutic approaches. Phototherapies, such as photodynamic (PDT) and photothermal (PTT) have emerged as promising alternatives. Combining them could result in even more effective treatment, enabling the simultaneous ...
Creating iPSC-derived 3D human neuromuscular junctions to investigate amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) KU Leuven
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor neuron (MN) degeneration, cells which ensure brain-muscle communication. This communication is done at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) level, a specialized synapse between lower MNs and the skeletal muscle. In ALS, MN loss and NMJ denervation lead to muscle atrophy, responsible for muscular weakness and ultimately, patient’s death. As such, ...