Student Researchers' Society Topics

Co-supervisor: Dr. MÁNYI, Luca

What information is contained in oscillograms and pulse waves recorded during automated blood pressure measurement? Can we improve the sensitivity of automated four-limb blood pressure monitors? This research examines pulse-wave morphology and quantitative features in relation to conventional vascular and imaging findings. Students may contribute to signal quality assessment, waveform analysis, clinical data processing or evaluation of artificial intelligence methods. The extent of computational work will depend on the clinical question and the student’s interests.

Methods and skills: Oscillometric measurement and oscillogram assessment; clinical data organisation and pseudonymisation; extraction of signal features; evaluation of diagnostic performance; collaboration with computational researchers.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KOLTAI, Katalin

The symptoms and clinical presentation of chronic venous disease vary considerably between individuals. This project examines whether body composition is associated with disease severity. One question is how the amount and distribution of body fat relate to venous symptoms and lower limb oedema. Assessment of skeletal muscle mass also draws attention to the possible role of the calf muscle pump. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) offers a way to estimate body composition and fluid distribution. However, lower limb oedema may affect BIA estimates of muscle mass and other body composition measures, requiring care when interpreting the results. Duplex ultrasound may help characterize hemodynamic changes in the venous system. CEAP classification and clinical severity assessment allow comparison across stages of disease. The project may also examine how body composition and ultrasound findings relate to patients’ symptoms and quality of life.

Co-supervisor: Dr. ENDREI, Dóra

Cardiac and non-cardiac complications during early active cardiac rehabilitation.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KENYERES, Péter

Critically ill patients treated in intensive care units often have impaired circulation, increased peripheral vascular resistance and diminished microcirculation. In such conditions hemorheological properties (viscosity, red blood cell deformation and aggregation) may have increased significance. We study the prognostic value of the monitoring of invasively or non-invasively measured hemodynamic and hemorheological parameters in various patients, and investigate what additional prognostic information they may add to standard intensive care prognostic scores (e.g. APACHE, SAPS).

Chronic venous disease is a common condition of the lower limbs that may range from varicose veins to skin changes and venous ulcers. Venous valve dysfunction, reflux and impaired venous outflow may all contribute to its development. These abnormalities can lead to sustained venous hypertension. Altered venous haemodynamics may contribute to oedema, skin changes and later complications. Patients commonly report leg heaviness, pain, tightness or swelling. These symptoms may affect mobility, work, sleep and daily activities. The severity of clinical findings does not necessarily match the impact of the disease on a patient’s quality of life. This topic addresses the haemodynamic processes underlying venous hypertension and their clinical consequences. It includes the role of duplex ultrasound in assessing venous reflux and outflow abnormalities. Considering clinical status together with quality of life may provide a fuller picture of the burden of chronic venous disease. The question is how changes in venous circulation relate to clinical manifestations and patients’ everyday experiences.

Co-supervisor: Dr. ENDREI, Dóra

Current evidence in the background of the management of acute heart failure
(three students) 

Current evidence in the background of the nonpharmacological management of acute heart failure

Current evidence in the background of the pharmacological management of acute heart failure, the role of mineralocorticoid receptorblockers

Current evidence in the background of the pharmacological management of acute heart failure, the role of nesiritide

Differentiation between valvular and non-valvular atrial fibrillation and the choice of anticoagulant therapy (one student)

Co-supervisor: Dr. SZILASI, Magdolna

-Dr. Istvan Ruzsics, PhD, Pulmonologist, University of Pécs, 1st Department of Medicine

-Dr. Magdolna Szilasi, PhD Pulmonologist, Specialist in Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Occupational Medicine, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary

The project may be completed in Hungarian, English or German. Applications are welcomed from students enrolled in the Hungarian, English and German medical programs. Students will have the opportunity to participate in an ongoing multicentre clinical study and may contribute to future national and international scientific publications.

Research Background The topic is linked to an ongoing multicentre digital COPD care study conducted in collaboration between the National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology and the Hetényi Géza Hospital. The project investigates how digital health technologies, including home spirometry, smart inhalers, telemonitoring systems and patient-reported outcomes, can contribute to the early detection of disease deterioration, prevention of exacerbations and optimization of long-term COPD management. The project provide students with the opportunity to participate in real-world clinical research, analyze patient-generated health data and contribute to scientific publications in the rapidly evolving field of digital respiratory medicine.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Acute exacerbations significantly impair quality of life, accelerate lung function decline and increase healthcare utilization. Traditional follow-up strategies often identify deterioration only after symptoms have become clinically evident. Recent advances in digital health technologies provide an opportunity to continuously monitor patients and identify early warning signals of deterioration before severe clinical events occur. Digital biomarkers are objective, measurable physiological and behavioural parameters collected through digital devices and may represent a new frontier in personalized respiratory care.

Aim of the Project

The aim of this project is to investigate potential digital biomarkers that may predict early clinical deterioration and exacerbations in COPD patients.

The study may include the analysis of:

• home spirometry measurements and lung function trends
• FEV1 variability and longitudinal changes
• rescue medication use patterns
• inhaler adherence data
• patient-reported symptoms
• integrated digital monitoring parameters

The project will provide insight into digital biomarker research, predictive modelling and precision medicine approaches in respiratory diseases.

Expected Learning Outcomes

• clinical data analysis
• digital health data interpretation
• statistical analysis
• scientific writing and publication preparation
• introduction to predictive medicine

Effect of compression elastic bandage on lower limb circulation in diseases of various etiology

Co-supervisor: Dr. FENDRIK, Krisztina

How does limb perfusion change during compression therapy? This research examines compression bandaging in relation to arterial circulation, microcirculation and tissue oxygenation in different clinical conditions. Student projects may focus on a selected patient population, a bandaging technique or measurements before and after treatment. Examinations are performed under standardised conditions following assessment of arterial status and consideration of clinical safety requirements.

Methods and skills: Compression bandaging under supervision; ankle-brachial index (ABI), toe pressure and toe-brachial index (TBI); transcutaneous partial tissue oxygen pressure (tcpO₂); laser Doppler flowmetry; assessment of oedema and symptoms; evaluation of standardised repeated measurements.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KOLTAI, Katalin

A significant part of the population suffers from peripheral arterial diseases but the awareness of these diseases is much lower, the secondary prevention and even the symptomatic treatment are inappropriate frequently compared to the cardiovascular disorders. Therefore we are aiming to investigate those factors which can affect the blood and oxygen supplementation of the extremities performing cardiological, angiological, haemorheological and tissue oxygen tension examinations in order to be able to salvage the limbs and improve life quality. We examine the effects of the various pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies on these variables and limb survival.

Co-supervisor: Dr. BIRÓ, Katalin

A significant part of the population suffers from peripheral arterial diseases but the awareness of these diseases is much lower, the secondary prevention and even the symptomatic treatment are inappropriate frequently compared to the cardiovascular disorders. Therefore we are aiming to investigate those factors which can affect the blood and oxygen supplementation of the extremities performing cardiological, angiological, haemorheological and tissue oxygen tension examinations in order to be able to salvage the limbs and improve life quality. We examine the effects of the various pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies on these variables and limb survival.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KOLTAI, Katalin

How are arterial circulation, tissue oxygenation and exercise capacity related? This research explores local and systemic factors influencing limb perfusion in peripheral artery disease. Angiological and cardiac characteristics are assessed in relation to functional status and quality of life. Depending on the available patient population, student projects may focus on resting or exercise measurements, comorbidities or changes during treatment.

Methods and skills: Doppler and oscillometric ankle–brachial index (ABI); toe pressure and toe–brachial index (TBI); transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO₂); functional and quality-of-life assessment; participation in duplex ultrasound examinations.

Co-supervisor: Dr. SZILASI, Magdolna

-Dr. Istvan Ruzsics, PhD, Pulmonologist, University of Pécs, 1st Department of Medicine

-Dr. Magdolna Szilasi, PhD, Pulmonologist, Specialist in Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Occupational Medicine, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary

The project may be completed in Hungarian, English or German. Applications are welcomed from students enrolled in the Hungarian, English and German medical programs. Students will have the opportunity to participate in an ongoing multicentre clinical study and may contribute to future national and international scientific publications.

Research Background The topic is linked to an ongoing multicentre digital COPD care study conducted in collaboration between the National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology and the Hetényi Géza Hospital. The project investigates how digital health technologies, including home spirometry, smart inhalers, telemonitoring systems and patient-reported outcomes, can contribute to the early detection of disease deterioration, prevention of exacerbations and optimization of long-term COPD management. The project provide students with the opportunity to participate in real-world clinical research, analyze patient-generated health data and contribute to scientific publications in the rapidly evolving field of digital respiratory medicine.

Digital health technologies such as home spirometry, smart inhalers and telemonitoring platforms are increasingly being integrated into the management of chronic respiratory diseases. However, successful implementation depends not only on technological performance but also on patient acceptance, usability, healthcare professional engagement and integration into everyday clinical practice. Understanding these factors is essential for translating innovative technologies into routine care.

Aim of the Project

The aim of this project is to evaluate the feasibility, usability and clinical applicability of digital health technologies in COPD patients under real-world conditions.

Potential areas of investigation include:

• patient acceptance and satisfaction
• usability and adherence
• healthcare professional perspectives
• data quality and reliability
• clinical utility
• implementation barriers and facilitators

This topic is particularly suitable for students interested in digital health, healthcare innovation and future models of chronic disease management.

Expected Learning Outcomes

• implementation science
• health technology assessment
• patient-centred research
• evaluation of digital healthcare innovations
• scientific publication preparation

Co-supervisor: Dr. MÁNYI, Luca

Can we improve the early detection of peripheral artery disease? Absent or uncertain symptoms may make the disease difficult to recognise. This research examines non-invasive vascular measurements and their relationships in patient populations at increased risk. Student projects may focus on detecting previously unrecognised disease, discrepancies between measurement methods or the clinical relevance of limb perfusion. Projects involving severe ischaemia may also assess clinical status and limb outcomes.

Methods and skills: Four-limb blood pressure measurement using Doppler and automated oscillometric devices (conventional and automated ABI); toe pressure and toe–brachial index (TBI); transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO₂); assessment of oscillograms and pulse waves; participation in measurements and duplex ultrasound examinations; analysis of diagnostic agreement and accuracy.

Gastritisek pathomechanizmusának a vizsgálata.

Evidence based medicine top level (A cathegory) suggestions are not available, mainly retrospective results suggest safety level of medical treatment modalities. International databases (FDA-USA etc.) collect these information. Our goal is to process therapeutical results of our patients and highlight specific and non-specific situations and solvations and compare international guidelines in the issue.

Capsule enteroscopy le tus to visualize „white spots” of the gastrointestinal tract, main part of small bowel. Results highlighted novel correlations between harmful drugs and diseases and higher prevalency of GI lesions. The system is cost-effective when used correctly. There are systems for visualization of esopagus, small bowel and large bowel. We process our results year-to-year and compare to the literature data and novel methods. This topic is adviced mainly for thesis topic.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KOLTAI, Katalin

How do blood flow properties relate to limb microcirculation and tissue oxygenation? This topic explores hemorheological and microcirculatory characteristics of peripheral artery disease across clinical presentations. Student projects may examine associations with disease severity, wound status or functional impairment, or assess changes during treatment.

Methods and skills: Plasma and whole-blood viscosity, red blood cell deformability and aggregation; transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO₂); laser Doppler flowmetry; comparison of macrovascular and microcirculatory findings; analysis of longitudinal data.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KOLTAI, Katalin

Blood flow properties may change in a range of diseases. This research examines the clinical associations of whole-blood and plasma viscosity, red blood cell deformability and red blood cell aggregation. Students may relate laboratory findings to disease severity, functional status or follow-up outcomes in a selected clinical population. Where appropriate data are available, composite measures such as the hematocrit-to-blood-viscosity ratio may also be evaluated.

Methods and skills: Whole-blood and plasma viscosity measurements; assessment of red blood cell deformability and aggregation; platelet aggregation testing in relevant projects; sample handling, quality control and clinical data analysis.

Hemorheological parameters in neonatological disorders

Co-supervisor: Dr. CSISZÁR, Beáta

Blood flow properties and blood cell characteristics can be altered in several diseases: they can provoke symptoms in a part of diseases or they can be co-factors in other ones. The haemorheological parameters could be valuable in risk stratification and diagnostics. In our laboratory haemorheological investigations are performed at various patient populations: plasma and whole blood viscosity, red blood cell aggregation and deformability, platelet aggregation are measured and they are analysed in respect of clinical parameters. The clinical usefulness of a novel variable, haematocrit and blood viscosity ratio characterising the oxygen carrying capacity of blood is evaluated.

Co-supervisor: Dr. VARJÚ, Péter

Based on various studies, the prevalence of co-occurrence (overlap syndrome) of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and COPD can be estimated at 10-20%. During our research, with the help of PolyWatch, we assess the frequency and severity of (mainly obstructive) breathing disorders occurring during sleep, as well as their correlation with various comorbidities, in our patients hospitalized due to acute exacerbation of COPD. After recovery of the exacerbation, after discharge, with a stable underlying disease, the sleep test is repeated. The aim of our study is to assess the effect of acute exacerbation of COPD on the severity of OSAS.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KOLTAI, Katalin

Non-invasive angiological tests in patients at high risk for peripheral artery disease

NSAID gastroenteropathy.

Co-supervisor: Dr. ENDREI, Dóra

How do standing, lying down and head-down tilt, used to model aspects of microgravity, affect venous circulation? Venous circulatory disorders may be associated with clinical conditions ranging from limb oedema to central congestion. This topic offers opportunities to investigate venous flow, outflow obstruction, reflux and their relationships with cardiac function. Student projects may address peripheral, cervical, central and cardiac venous circulation, including the effects of breathing, posture and the muscle pump. The specific question and methods will be tailored to the available research opportunities.

Methods and skills: Clinical venous assessment; participation in duplex ultrasound examinations; measurement protocols addressing respiration, posture and muscle activity; clinical data analysis; structured literature review.

Co-supervisor: Dr. KOLTAI, Katalin

This topic examines how pharmacological treatment and physical activity relate to limb circulation, walking ability and patients’ daily lives. Within a selected patient group, students may investigate associations between treatment and functional, microcirculatory or hemorheological measures, including changes over time. Projects may involve analysis of existing data or patient follow-up; observational studies assess associations with treatment.

Methods and skills: Assessment of medication use and treatment adherence; ankle–brachial index (ABI), toe–brachial index (TBI) and transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO₂); participation in hemorheological measurements; assessment of walking ability and quality of life; analysis of follow-up data.

Co-supervisor: Dr. SZILASI, Magdolna

-Dr. Istvan Ruzsics, PhD, Pulmonologist, University of Pécs, 1st Department of Medicine

-Dr. Magdolna Szilasi, PhD, Pulmonologist, Specialist in Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Occupational Medicine, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary

The project may be completed in Hungarian, English or German. Applications are welcomed from students enrolled in the Hungarian, English and German medical programs. Students will have the opportunity to participate in an ongoing multicentre clinical study and may contribute to future national and international scientific publications.

Research Background The topic is linked to an ongoing multicentre digital COPD care study conducted in collaboration between the National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology and the Hetényi Géza Hospital. The project investigates how digital health technologies, including home spirometry, smart inhalers, telemonitoring systems and patient-reported outcomes, can contribute to the early detection of disease deterioration, prevention of exacerbations and optimization of long-term COPD management. The project provide students with the opportunity to participate in real-world clinical research, analyze patient-generated health data and contribute to scientific publications in the rapidly evolving field of digital respiratory medicine.

COPD management has traditionally relied on reactive care models, where interventions are initiated after symptom worsening or exacerbations have already occurred. The emergence of digital health technologies creates an opportunity to establish proactive care pathways based on continuous monitoring, early identification of deterioration and timely intervention. Telemedicine, remote patient monitoring and patient activation may fundamentally transform the future management of chronic respiratory diseases.

Aim of the Project

The aim of this project is to evaluate the role of digital technologies in supporting proactive COPD management and improving long-term patient outcomes.

The study may investigate:

• remote monitoring systems
• telemedicine-based follow-up models
• patient engagement and self-management
• early warning systems
• digital care pathways
• integration between primary and specialist care
• implementation of innovative digital healthcare solutions

The project offers an opportunity to explore modern chronic care models and their potential impact on healthcare delivery.

Expected Learning Outcomes

• healthcare systems research
• telemedicine and digital care models
• patient pathway analysis
• implementation of innovative healthcare solutions
• scientific communication

Proarrhythmic effects and arrhythmic complications of the pharmacological treatment of atrial fibrillation

Screening for lower extremity artery disese using non-invasive angiological methods and examination of hemorheological parameters in acromegalic population

Search for the pathomechanism of gastritis.

The implementation of the therapeutic guidelines for the treatment of atrial fibrillation, with emphasis on the new oral anticoagulants (one student)

The importance of amiodarone-associated adverse effects in the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation (one student)

Up-to-date management of GI bleeding patients by the analysis of GI Bleeding Registry.

Updates in the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: Focus on the exponentially improving outcomes of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma

Co-supervisor: Dr. FENDRIK, Krisztina

This research addresses the clinical and functional characteristics of diabetes-associated microvascular and macrovascular disease. Projects may investigate

detection of peripheral artery disease, limb perfusion and tissue oxygenation, and their relationships with retinopathy, kidney disease and neuropathy. The student project will be tailored to the available patient population.

Methods and skills: Vascular risk assessment; ankle–brachial index (ABI), toe–brachial index (TBI) and transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO₂); participation in duplex ultrasound and hemorheological examinations; structured assessment of complications and clinical data.