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Aalto University Magazine examines how bodily boundaries can be crossed

The magazine's April issue showcases both concrete and figurative encounters between the human body and technology.
Seitsemänvuotias Nelson hyppimässä trampoliinilla liikuntapuisto SuperParkissa.
Seven-year-old Nelson Thottungal blocking a virtual ball on an augmented reality trampoline. Read about this exercise adventure on page 24. Photo: Maarit Hohteri.

Associate Vice President Antti Ahlava opens the issue by underlining the significance of our campus as a meeting place after a period of remote work and study: “Physical encounters communicate shared norms, increase trust, spur collaboration and enhance interpersonal ties and commitment.”

This issue's feature article examines how artificial intelligence is bringing new dimensions to brain imaging. Machines have already learned to identify individuals based only on their brain waves. Next, researchers will harness machine learning to detect signs of memory disorders and improve transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy.

The Who section introduces designer Lincoln Kayiwa, an Aalto alumnus who has crossed both geographical and professional boundaries in his career.

The On the go piece explores the joy that simulated superpowers bring to siblings Norah and Nelson as they try out a new form of exercise and play: augmented reality trampolines and wall climbing games at an adventure park. Behind these games are ideas generated by Professor Perttu Hämäläinen’s research group.

Another research project blurring the lines between biology and technology is the Vital Signs project, which is developing a new kind of stethoscope. Project lead, physician Alexis Kouros, believes this innovation will significantly improve patient care.

Limits to career progression remain a problem for certain groups, and networking is one way to break past them. Professor Marjo-Riitta Diehl and entrepreneur Miisa Mink, an alumna of the School of Business,exchange a few thoughts about women’s networks in working life -- their benefits, their character, and the challenges they still need to address.

On the cover photo nine-year-old Nora is testing a climbing-wall game at an action park.
On the cover, nine-year-old Norah Thottungal tries out augmented reality wall climbing at SuperPark. Photo: Maarit Hohteri.

Aalto University Magazine 30 was published in Finnish and English. Copies are mailed to all subscribed alumni, and the electronic version can be read on issuu.com. Some articles are also posted at aalto.fi/magazine.

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