bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of sample preparation techniques and stress path followed on the location of the Critical State Line: an example of a silty-sandy tailing
Authors: Carrera Alessandra  , Coop M.R.  , Lancellotta R.
Published: February 2025

The uniqueness of the Critical State Line (CSL) of silty and sandy geomaterials, on which the Critical State Soil Mechanics is based, has often been the subject of debate. Results from the literature seem to show a dependency of the CSL on the stress path followed and, for reconstituted samples, on the sample preparation method used. In the research described in the present paper, a series of triaxial tests was performed on sandy and silty tailings collected from the Stava tailings dams in Italy. The samples were prepared using different techniques commonly used in the laboratory, and then they were sheared using different stress paths. No dependency of the Critical State Line location on the sample preparation method was observed. This might result from the physical characteristics of particles of the tailings studied. While triaxial tests performed on samples isotropically and anisotropically consolidated indicated a robust Critical State Line that was independent of stress history, tests performed in extension did show a much more contractive behaviour than tests performed in compression. However, the final states that the samples sheared in extension reached cannot be defined as Critical States because strong strain localisation always appeared at low strains, and consequently the void ratio was inhomogeneous throughout the samples.
The Effects of Fouling on the Deformation and Stiffness Behavior of Railroad Ballast
Authors: Bryson L. Sebastian  , Walton-Macaulay Corrie
Published: February 2025

The deformation and stiffness behavior of railroad ballast have key roles in governing the stability and performance of railroad tracks. Fouling of railroad ballast by the intrusion of fines into the air void spaces of the aggregate has been cited as one of the primary causes of deterioration of the track structure. This paper presents results of experiments investigating the effects of fouling on the deformation and stiffness response of railroad ballast. For these experiments, clean ballast samples were mixed with various amounts of coal dust and tested under uniaxial loading conditions. Unique to these experiments was the use of a lateral constraint-free testing box, which allowed the ballast to form natural side slopes and thus simulated conditions that more resemble field conditions. The results of the experimentation were the development of correlations between deformation and stiffness degradation and fouling severity. These correlations can be used in developing design criteria and planning maintenance cycles.
Cognitive aspects of educational ontologies design
Authors: Strakhovich Elvira  , Gavrilova Tatiana
Published: February 2025

The paper presents one practical approach for educational ontologies development. The process of knowledge structuring and ontology design is described. The special stress is set on visual design. The visualization enhances the cognitive aspect of the ontology usage. An example of hierarchy structure of ontologies for IT project management teaching is considered.
Principle of Documents for Systems Design
Authors: Koono Zenya  , Chen Hui
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses the principles of documents for the systems design of a software system without a sequential nature. It reports firstly on the design aspect from “Human intentional activity”, and secondly the documentary aspect for human interception. Emphasis is put on diagrams, charts and tables, in essentially the same situation as a hardware.
End-User-Initiative Development with Domain–Specific Frameworks and Visual Modeling
Authors: Chusho Takeshi  , Zhou Feng  , Yagi Noriyuki
Published: February 2025

The development of Web applications should be supported by business professionals themselves since Web applications must be modified frequently based on their needs. This paper describes the end-user-initiative development of Web applications based on two approaches. The first approach uses domain-specific frameworks which are effective for UI-driven systems. The second approach uses visual modeling tools which are useful for model-driven systems such as workflow systems. Both approaches suppose the three-tier architecture of user interface, business logic and database. After these approaches were applied to the development of some applications, the composite approach was considered for a typical application which should be easily developed and frequently modified by end-users.
Automatic learning of preferences in numeric criteria
Authors: Marin Lucas  , Moreno Antonio  , Isern David
Published: February 2025

Due to the astonishing speed at which new content is created and published on the Web, it is increasingly difficult for users to make the most appropriate decisions in front of an overwhelming amount of information. Recommender systems try to help users by analyzing and ranking the available alternatives according to their preferences and interests, modeled in user profiles. One important problem to solve in the development of these systems is how to discover the user preferences, and how to maintain them dynamically. In this work we propose to use the information given by a user in his/her interaction with the recommender system (e.g. the selection of the news to be read every morning) to infer his/her preferences on several criteria on which the decision alternatives are defined. More specifically, the paper is focused in learning the most preferred value for the user in the case of numerical attributes. A methodology to adapt the user profile in a dynamic and automatic way is presented. The adaptations may be performed after each interaction of the user or after the system has gathered enough information from several user selections. We have developed a framework for the automatic evaluation of the performance of the adaptation algorithm that permits to analyze the influence of different parameters. The obtained results show that the adaptation algorithm is able to learn a very accurate model of the user preferences after a certain amount of interactions.
Gait recognition by using Spectrum Analysis on state space reconstruction
Authors: Samà Albert  , Ruiz Francisco J.  , Pérez-López Carlos  , Català Andreu
Published: February 2025

This paper describes a method for identifying a person while walking by means of a triaxial accelerometer attached to the waist. Human gait is considered as a dynamical system whose attractor is reconstructed by time delay vectors. A Spectral Analysis on the state space reconstruction is used to characterize the attractor. The method is compared to other common methods used in gait recognition tasks through a preliminary test.
EURODIABETA: Modelling and Implementation of Information Systems for Chronic Health Care – Example: Diabetes
Authors: Sönksen Peter  , Piwernetz Klaus  , Massi-Benedetti Massimo  , Mantas John  , Carson Ewart  , Engelbrecht Rolf  , Rector Alan  , Fletcher Leslie  , Gold Gerry  , Del Pozo Guerrero Francisco  , Andreassen Steen  , Fieschi Mario  , Jersch Norbert  , Nussey Ian  , Heyde Holgar
Published: February 2025

EURODIABETA was one of the largest (16 partners, 3 sub-contractors, from 7 EC member states) AIM funded projects bringing European experts together to perform a feasibility study on the production of a Computer assisted Chronic Health Care Environment to support diabetes care as a paradigm of all chronic disease care. Good project management has demonstrated the viability of such an ambitious goal. Existing prototypes have been evaluated as components for an integrated system, and conceptual modelling has been identified as a means for providing the logical framework within which the components will fit.
HOSCOM Results : a European Health Data Base for Hospital Comparisons and Management
Authors: Roger France Francis H.  , Alban Anita  , Barber Barry  , Beguin Claire  , Bruster Steve  , Closon Marie-Christine  , Ruiz Ulises  , Taroni Francesco  , Überla Karl  , Van Den Heuvel Richard
Published: February 2025

A European approach towards resource management and strategic planning was implemented in the HOSCOM project of AIM by defining information standards needed across countries, as well as a methodology to measure resources and costs at institutional and inter-institutional levels.
AIDMED : Assistant for interacting with multimedia medical databases
Authors: Howes Mark
Published: February 2025

The overall intention of AIDMED was to address the need which medical personnel have for easy access to the wide variety of information and data sources available now, or soon, in computerised form. In the Exploratory Action of the AIM Programme a task was included of providing an interface which served this purpose. An initial analysis of user requirements led quickly to the construction of demonstrator prototypes, which were evaluated with medical personnel on simulated case consultations. Further revision of users’ needs, and the development of interaction models followed. The cycle of information gathering and evaluation led to the building of a hospital department prototype. A functional reference model and an initial top-level design of the system architecture were constructed, from which a detailed system specification could be derived.
QUIRT: Real Time Imaging and Quality Control in Radiation Therapy
Authors: Van Herk M.B.  , Bijhold J.  , Blanckaert N.  , Crabeels D.  , Gilhuijs K.G.A.  , Hoogervorst B.R.  , Mijnheer B.J.  , Mitine C.  , Moncuit D.  , Pinkster M.B.C.  , Pallotta S.  , Bartelink H.
Published: February 2025

The major goal of the QUIRT project was the design and the implementation of a system for the improvement of treatment accuracy in radiotherapy in four European cancer institutions. This objective was pursued by the further development of an Electronic Portal Imaging Device (EPID) and the design of software for the detection of patient set-up errors. This software was extensively tested in clinical practice. In addition, a prototype on-line areal dosimeter was derived from the EPID, based on the same principle and using the same microcomputer system and software as required for the EPID. The EPID and the automatic and interactive image analysis software modules proved to be reliable and fast tools for the on-line verification of a number of treatment set-ups. With the EPID being commercialized by the project's industrial partner and the further development of optimum image processing techniques, the QUIRT system can in the future not only successfully replace conventional films for portal imaging but also provide on-line error detection. The implementation of QUIRT systems in radiotherapy centres will greatly improve the reliability of the results of randomized clinical studies and allow the use of more complex treatment techniques.
AIM Coordinated Action on Patient Data Cards
Authors: Guanyabens Joan  , Baig Bill
Published: February 2025

As a part of the AIM Exploratory Action a Working Group was formed to study the assessment of the needs and organizational impact of Patient Data Cards. The group was split into three subgroups to study the clinical, technical assessment, and legal aspects. The results were published in a detailed report. The main considerations and recommendations of the subgoups are presented here.
Health Care Security and Privacy, Quality and Safety
Authors: Louwerse C.P.
Published: February 2025

Working group 6 of CEN/TC251 is concerned with the broad field of Security and Privacy, Quality and Safety in Health Care. In line with the priorities given by SOGITS, the first areas to be looked into, are those concerned with Data Protection in Health Care Information Systems. In order to successfully work on standardisation in this field, one has to take into account the generally low awareness for these problems, and the necessity to avoid increasing the gap between theory and practice. Work of WG6 will build to a large extent on the results of a related AIM-project (SEISMED). A sketch is given of ongoing work on this subject. Briefly, also other work items for WG6 are reviewed.
Medical Informatics Vocabulary
Authors: Rada Roy  , Russell Jeff
Published: February 2025

In order that medical informaticians can create Open Systems for health care, they need to have a common language. Efforts in the 1980s at the National Library of Medicine to create a Medical Informatics Vocabulary (MIVoc) have been useful for document indexing purposes, but need to be continued and extended. The Committee of European Normalization Technical Committee 251 has created a project team for MIVoc, and that team has used both automatic and manual methods and referenced many sources in producing a vocabulary that has support from numerous experts in Europe.
Computer Technology for Impaired or Disabled Persons in an Occupational Environment. Experiences from a Five Year Project in Sweden
Authors: Malmsborg Thomas  , Breding Jan  , Keijer Ulf
Published: February 2025

This paper presents experiences from the TUFFA project. TUFFA is in Swedish an acronym for Technical Procurement for Disabled Persons in Work Life. The regular deliveries according to the project started 1988 and till today approximately 1200 workplaces have been installed, of which all include advanced technology and computers. The paper describes a model for cooperation between different competences and a method for writing specifications of requirements, based on functional needs and environmental conditions. Two elucidating practical cases are presented.
The design and evaluation of rehabilitative computer technology for blind people: the need for a multi-disciplinary approach
Authors: Petrie Helen  , Strothotte Thomas  , Weber Gerhard  , Deconinck Frank
Published: February 2025

If rehabilitative technology is to be of maximum use, a multi-disciplinary approach to its design and evaluation should be adopted. This paper will outline research from disciplines such as psychology, ergonomics, computer science and human-computer interaction that can contribute to the development of more effective rehabilitative technology. This approach will be illustrated with examples from the GUIB Project (Graphical User Interfaces for Blind People), a TIDE project to develop multimedia systems to adapt graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to computer to make them accessible to blind people.
Effectiveness of Multi-Talk II as a Voice Output Communication Aid
Authors: Raghavendra Parimala  , Rosengren Elisabet
Published: February 2025

Multi-Talk II, a voice output communication aid (VOCA) is currently being evaluated by five adults who are physically disabled and users of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. This paper presents findings from three subjects and describes their communicative interactions with their regular communication system and Multi-Talk II. For one subject, communication rate increased with Multi-Talk II but there were more communication breakdowns, whereas for the other two subjects rate of communication increased with Multi-Talk II and there were no breakdowns.
Knowledge Organisation in Medical KBS Construction
Authors: Schreiber A. Th.  , van Heijst G.  , Lanzola G.  , Stefanelli M.
Published: February 2025

In this paper we present an analysis of the structure of medical knowledge for the purpose of the construction of knowledge based systems. We discern three different views on knowledge that each have a different but complementary function with regard to reusability. We show that each of these views suggests distinct activities in the knowledge engineering process. The reported knowledge organisation is a key element of the GAMES methodology for the construction of medical knowledge based systems.
The integration of visual guidance in education and teaching
Authors: MEEUS Lieve
Published: February 2025

The theoretical model of visual functioning of children with low vision according to Dr. Anne Corn, form the view of the I.E.P. “visual guidance.” We worked with aspects of it in four tasks to develop visual functioning of low vision children. It results in selfactivity and cleverness never seen. With the dedication of all who are involved in the education of those children it becomes an attitude and raises the visual functioning.
Quantitative Motor Diagnostics With Blind and Visually Impaired Children by Means of the Physical Coordination Test for Children
Authors: REIMER A.M.  , SIEMONSMA-BOON M.  , SMITS-ENGELSMAN B.
Published: February 2025

The aim of the study is to start the inventory of the motometric data of blind and visually impaired children and the defects with respect to children with a normal sight.
Lists of Steps for A.D.L. Training
Authors: JOOSTEN-ROOM H.  , BOUW W.  , ROORDA N.
Published: February 2025

The collected lists contain a description of the steps which a person has to be capable of performing in order to master a particular skill. The lists can be used when observing and teaching skills and are a useful tool for the formulation and evaluation of the treatment.
Distributed Clinical Management-Information Systems: an Enabling Technology for Future Health Care Programmes
Authors: Renaud-Salis Jean Louis
Published: February 2025

Within the next decade profound changes in the health care delivery systems are likely to occur, including continuous efforts at cost control and an increased emphasis on quality assurance and outcomes by health payers. There will be an increased reliance on evidence-based medicine, and an increased emphasis on decentralized and coordinated care through regional health care networks. There will be a need for guideline-driven, distributed decision support systems integrated with clinical information systems, and added value, regional health information networks, to enable implementation of the future health care programmes relying on wide dissemination and use of clinical practice guidelines. The theoretical and technical foundations for development of these systems already exist or are going to emerge from the ongoing R & D activities within AIM and other CEC programmes. Main issues to be addressed within the fourth Framework Programme include integration of guideline-driven Decision Support Systems with Clinical Information Systems into clinical Workstations, Tools for collaborative development, validation and maintenance of large clinical knowledge bases (KB), KB safety and soundness issues and development of the necessary infrastructure for regional or national health information networks.
Respiratory Pattern, Invested Effort, and Variability in Heart Rate and Blood Pressure During the Performance of Mental Tasks
Authors: MULDER L.J.M.  , VAN ROON A.M.  , VELDMAN J.B.P.  , ELGERSMA A.F.  , MULDER G.
Published: February 2025

In this chapter the effects of mental effort during task performance are studied on heart rate, blood pressure and its spectral variability measures as well as effects on baroreflex sensitivity also using a spectral method. In particular, differential effects of task complexity is looked at. On heart rate about the same effects are found as in other laboratory studies on mental workload: an increase of heart rate and a decrease in variability. The pattern in blood pressure is about the same: an increase in pressure during mental effort and a decrease of blood pressure variability. In most cases also baroreflex sensitivity is decreased.
Data Variability in the Analysis of Spinal Deformity: a Study Performed by means of the AUSCAN System
Authors: NEGRINI Alberto  , NEGRINI Stefano  , SANTAMBROGIO Giorgio C.
Published: February 2025

This paper tackles the problem of analysing the variability of the experimental data provided by the AUSCAN System, an opto-electronic measurement device for the detection of the 3-D spinal geometry during static and dynamic posture. Various sources of data variability, ranging from pure errors of detection up to physiological variations of the spinal morphology due the control mechanism of posture, have been considered. The final results of this study show that the dynamic component of posture, associating with the motor-posture control system, causes the largest variability in the measure of the spinal morphology.
Relation Between Static Angles of the Spine and a Dynamic Event Like Posture: Approach to the Problem
Authors: NEGRINI Stefano  , NEGRINI Alberto  , SANTAMBROGIO Giorgio C.  , SIBILLA Paolo
Published: February 2025

The relationship between static measures of the spine (angles) and a dynamic event like posture is here investigated by using the AUSCAN System, an optoelectronic device for non-ionising analysis of spinal deformities. Each patient was examined repeatedly ten times and the standard deviation of each set of data was evaluated. The obtained results were arranged into three groups: one life-size dummy, five normal subjects and ten scoliotic patients (right-convex thoracic and left-convex lumbar curves). The differences between the results from dummy and patients were associated with a posture component. On the basis of such results, data variability of radiographic measures has been assessed particularly in relation with the errors due to intra- and inter-observer, repositioning of patient and radiological tube, posture and circadian variations.
Simulation of Surgical Maneuvers with C-D Instrumentation
Authors: STOKES Ian A.F.  , GARDNER-MORSE Mack
Published: February 2025

In order to understand the biomechanics underlying the surgical correction of scoliosis using curved rods, multiple hooks, and the ‘derotation manoeuver’, we conducted finite element simulations of this surgery. Six patients were studied pre- and post-operatively with stereo radiography to record the threedimensional changes in their spine shape. The pre-operative geometry was used to create the geometry for an individualized finite element model for each patient. Flexibility properties of the spine were taken from published data. The surgical maneuvers were then simulated with these models, and the output of the simulations compared with the recorded post-operative spinal shape. It was found that: 1. The model using published flexibility properties of the spine gave poor agreement especially in the transverse plane; better agreement was obtained with motion segments represented by beam elements displaced posteriorly from the vertebral body centers. 2. approximating the hooks to the concave rod, together with hook distraction, has an effect on the spine similar in magnitude to the ‘derotation’ maneuver. 3. the amount of derotation of the spine’s apical angle was substantially less than 90 , and less than the amount of rod rotation. Ultimately, it is hoped to use this kind of model as an aid to surgical planning.
Digital 3D Moiré - Topography
Authors: WINDISCHBAUER Gerhard  , NEUGEBAUER Hermann
Published: February 2025

A moiré-based system has been developed for measuring men and animals. Methodical improvements include a PC-based digital realtime measuring system for data-acquisition and image-processing. A new frame-grabber is used for digitizing the video-signals. The images are stored in two memory banks. The incoming signal and the stored image can be added, subtracted or multiplied on a pixel by pixel basis. An electronic pin-board is used for for extracting essential details. A dBase-compatible database stores patient data and compressed images. Thus 30 moiré-topograms can be exported to a single 3,5" floppy disk. For viewing the patient’s data and the assigned topograms only a IBM compatible PC with standard software is necessary. Pattern classification is supported by neural networks.
Triage Simulation in a Virtual Environment
Authors: Dumay Adrie C.M.
Published: February 2025

Triage is the assessment of physical conditions of casualties with limited support of staff and equipment. The critical factor in handling a mass casualty situation is time. The focus is on the quick and accurate assessment of the physical conditions of casualties and the application of life-saving treatment to those who stand a chance to survive their inflictions under current circumstances. However, the survival and revitalisation of a group of casualties has a higher priority than the treatment of an individual casualty. In a military triage training programme expert medical knowledge is conveyed to non-specialists who should be able to assess casualty conditions. Such a programme can be facilitated with computer-based training equipment and training in a Virtual Environment to allow for flexible “on-demand” training focused to a military deployment. In this paper we present Virtual Environment technology, including actuator and sensor technology, and elaborate on the key building blocks for triage training in a Virtual Environment and conclude with a future perspective.
A Multimedia Workstation for Regional Telemedicine
Authors: Parsons David M.  , Cabral Jr. James E.  , Kim Yongmin  , Frank Mark S.
Published: February 2025

Building on the success of the MediaStation 5000 multimedia system, we have developed a telemedicine workstation which is programmable and supports high-bandwidth telecommunications links to connect together regional medical facilities. The system can be used to transfer, manipulate, and view radiological images, image sequences, audio, and video.
Towards Automatic Segmentation of Two-Dimensional Brain Tomograms
Authors: Beil Wolfgang  , Ottenberg Karsten  , Stiehl H. Siegfried
Published: February 2025

An approach to automatic segmentation of two-dimensional brain images from X-ray (CT) and magnetic resonance tomography (MR) is presented. Based on an image model of smooth regions separated by scaled discontinuities we derive computational processes for the problems of edge detection, contour grouping and smooth image reconstruction. We therefore employ advanced concepts of computer vision research such as scale-space analysis and deterministic and stochastic frameworks regularizing ill-posed inverse problems.
Application of Color Doppler M-Mode Echocardiography in the Assessment of Ventricular Diastolic Function
Authors: Thomas James D.  , Vandervoort Pieter M.  , Greenberg Neil L.  , Ares Miguel  , Adams Mark S.
Published: February 2025

Color Doppler M-mode echocardiography provides a spatiotemporal map of blood distribution (v(s,t)) within the heart, displaying (typically) a temporal resolution of 5 msec, a spatial resolution of 300 μm, and a velocity resolution of 3 cm/sec. M-mode echocardiographic data can be obtained along a streamline from the mid-left atrium to the mid-left ventricle from either the apical transthoracic window or the basal transesophageal window. A key parameter of the color Doppler M-mode is the transmitral propagation velocity, the slope of the leading edge of the M-mode derived E-wave. This propagation velocity is significantly less than the velocities measured within the E-wave by pulsed Doppler echocardiography and appears to provide information about diastolic function which is quite distinct. Published studies have indicated that color M-mode propagation velocity is inversely related to the relaxation time constant and is reduced in settings of acute myocardial ischemia. This manuscript will outline physics and instrumentation issues involved in the use of the color Doppler M-mode, discuss prior applications of this technique, and postulate on its role in the assessment of ventricular diastolic function.
GAMES II: A General Architecture for Medical Knowledge-Based Systems
Authors: Lanzola Giordano  , Quaglini Silvana  , Stefanelli Mario  , Schreiber Guus  , Brunoc Francesco
Published: February 2025

Patient management is a knowledge intensive activity. Therefore computer technology should be exploited to support work in medical care, either for augmenting the capabilities of the individual specialist, or to enhance the ability of collaborators to interact with each other and with some distributed computational resources. More specifically, Knowledge-Based Systems (KBSs) have long been considered as a possible means for disseminating knowledge and helping users in solving complex problems. The aim of the GAMES II project has been to develop a general framework which allows knowledge engineers and domain experts to co-operatively interact in building a medical KBS. This paper quickly illustrates the proposed methodology and some of the implemented prototypes. In both cases, the major goal of the project has been that of speeding up the process of generating KBSs and simplifying their use in order to contribute to a widespread dissemination of this technology in the health care area.
Workshop on MEDIREC: European Electronic Health Care Records Towards the Future
Authors: Reig Redondo Juan  , Ceusters Werner  , Moreno González Julio  , Iakovidis Ilias
Published: February 2025

In the Single European Market, health care equipment and systems should be built to assist communication between functions and across countries, and any analysis of quality of care and health service costs must be comparable and reliable. Past experience indicates that a single unified Health Care Record that is valid for all purposes and acceptable by all users, is not attainable. Nevertheless, it is crucial that a consensus and common understanding of the Health Care Record is reached. Several projects are currently under development, and many of them are trying to reach (part of) this ultimate goal, however not without major difficulties due to the various characteristics of the individual European countries with respect to the difference of Healthcare Systems, technical backgrounds, possibilities, etc. The Medirec Concerted Action is oriented towards reaching a common understanding on the subject.
Informatics in a Baccalaureate Nursing Curriculum
Authors: FLORES LEONARDO I.  , GÓIS PAIXÄO M. J.  , POTRA T.SANTOS
Published: February 2025

This paper outlines the current problems and future perspectives in teaching informatics to nurses in a higher education school in Portugal.
Concerted European Efforts in Education and Training in Health Telematics
Authors: SOSA M.
Published: February 2025

This chapter gives a historical overview of the concerted efforts of the European Community in education and training in health informatics and telematics. In particular, it describes how the EDUCTRA Concerted Action was initiated, conducted and completed within the 3rd European framework programme for Research and Development in Health Telematics. The chapter concludes with a short outline of the 21st century Information Society and the advent of the Internet. The increasing needs for education, training and re-training in the new society are emphasized and they are considered as a major challenge facing European health professionals and citizens in the future.
Health Cards in the United States: Legal Considerations
Authors: Bruening P.J.
Published: February 2025

The expanded use of card technology in the United States to store and process medical and administrative data raises issues of privacy in information carried on the health cards. Information privacy issues are not unique to card technologies, and the medical community seeks legal guidelines for protection of privacy in broad data networks comprised of all types of digital technologies. Current legislative proposals based on a system of fair information practices that would protect medical information stored on health cards as part of a broad, integrated data network.
Comprehensive Health Records Based on Advanced Card Technology and Networked Computers: Are They Feasible?
Authors: Möhr J.R.
Published: February 2025

The paper revisits an earlier proposal to use cards for indices to patient data in massively distributed health record systems, rather than as receptacle of the health data itself. This proposal is summarized. The earlier rationale, based on considerations of data volumes and compatibility is complemented by considerations of data obsolescence. It is shown that a need for indexing exists generally in distributed Health Information Systems (HIS). It seems appropriate to place indices on patient cards. Possibilities for their realization are sketched.
TARMEDICA: Optical Card for Clinical Data Storage
Authors: Sabater Tobella J.  , Sales sconka M.  , Ros Monleon J.  , Cortadellas Toroella J.  , Madrigal Gil S.
Published: February 2025

The development of an optical card application, that serves as personal identification and stores all the clinical historical data is presented. The optical card storage capacity is 4 Mb. The authors have developed software which can file in the card not only the individual demographic data but also case histories (illness, surgical operations, treatments, allergies, radiographs, echographs and all type of pictures). Another strong argument in favoru of this card is that it is useful to incorporate all the analytical results that are obtained from time to time and compare them retrospectively. Introducing this card in the outpatients consultations of hospitals or medical centers, can help in the decision making and actions to be taken when an emergency arises, thereby saving the repetition of many unnecessary analytical or other complementary tests. It is also beneficial for multiple specialist consultations. The card provides complete confidentiality through different entry level passwords. It is well worth nothing that the best part of the development of this idea is having a card with enough memory to introduce its own software with individual storage of both program and data. In this way it becomes a smart card with no need of previous software installation. The only requirement needed is the laser reader incorporated in any PC. Finally it prevents access by intruders and unscrupulous staff to the information, fact not guaranteed in the information contained in databases of hospital networks.
The PCS in Quebec: A Trigger to Improve Drug Prescription
Authors: Papillon M.-J.  , Fortin J.-P.  , Bérubé J.  , Lavoie G.
Published: February 2025

The Quebec Smart Card Project serves primarily to remedy some of the gaps in the circulation of clinical information. The problem is most readily apparent in the dispersion of clinical information, which includes the patient’s drug profile. The Quebec project also aims at introducing some computerized tools to assist the health care provider in his clinical decision. One of those tools is a Drug Advisor giving information about drug interactions, contraindications, side effects, allergies, dosages, etc. The combination of accurate information about the patient and the Drug Advisor managing updated data from the literature is synergic in improving drug prescription.
SANTAL, a Multi-Service Health Smart Card Trial in Saint-Nazaire Area
Authors: Cirre P.  , Leroux P.
Published: February 2025

Launched in 1988 with the support of the French Health Ministry, SANTAL operation is intended to assess the benefits of the use of a multi-service health smart card within the primary and hospital care systems. The aim is to produce a service of quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness by providing immediate identification, insurance coverage and medical data in the same card with respect for a high level of confidentiality. A very secure data access management is allowed by the use of a professional card system. SANTAL medical dataset contains some basic information about the patient’s health past, including the European emergency dataset. A second phase of SANTAL operation has been launched in 1995, with an important technological upgrading for a better integration of the health card in the health professionals information system.
An Overview of the World Health Card Cystem
Authors: Takahashi T.  , Sekita Y.  , Mandil S.H.
Published: February 2025

To investigate the current status of health care card projects, a questionnaire survey was conducted for major organizational bodies in Europe, North America and Japan. The questionnaire majorly consists of the environment, resources, operation and evaluation. And replies were collected and analysed. According to the result of analysis, an analytical model to evaluate a health care card system will be proposed.
Interoperability of Card Systems in Germany: Standards and Technics
Authors: Sembritzki J.
Published: February 2025

Owing to the incentives provided by the nation-wide introduction of the Health Insurance Card various card projects with different targets have been launched since the second half of 1994. As the projects may differ considerably as far as motives, card contents and technical aspects are concerned, the harmonization of these aspects is an urgent need. Thus, it can be prevented that the failure of projects would suppress the budding acceptance of medical patient cards by the population. Since the Joint Panel on Health Cards has been founded in 1995, project partners and other responsible persons try to agree upon the introduction of medical patient cards. Special emphasis is put on the aspect of interoperability.
The Australian Medical Device Vigilance System
Authors: Beech Derrick R.
Published: February 2025

Since its inception, in 1986, the Australian Vigilance System has had voluntary and compulsory components. The voluntary component is the Therapeutic Device Problem Reporting Scheme and the compulsory one is requirements on sponsors to report as a condition of entry on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. In addition, reports produced worldwide are actively monitored for their applicability to Australia.
Data Exchange in Metrology
Authors: Badger Peter
Published: February 2025

The adoption of the directives 71/316/EEC on measuring instruments and 90/384/EEC on non-automatic weighing instruments has resulted in a considerable quantity of certificates to be exchanged between the Central Metrological Authorities and the Local Metrological Authorities, in the member states. This requirement to exchange data, prompted the setting up of the WELMEC working group, to explore how computerisation could help the member states perform their tasks.
Germany's Competent Authority Initiatives
Authors: Stober Werner
Published: February 2025

A decentralised approach on the enforcement's' responsibility of the medical devices act, which includes the directives and the guidelines for the vigilance system, has been adopted in Germany. DIMDI under this act, had been nominated to set up a database - supported information system, that would ensure secure usage of medical devices in Germany. The necessary measures taken in order to fulfil the German legislation as well as DIMDI's points of view for the international data exchange on medical devices are being discussed in this paper.
Incorporating Visible Human Project Data into the Undergraduate Anatomy and Physiology Curriculum
Authors: Senger Steven
Published: February 2025

The University of Wisconsin—La Crosse is developing a software environment which will allow undergraduates in anatomy and physiology to directly manipulate the Visible Human Data Set. The software environment provides students with a “personal digital cadaver” for study. The system incorporates a volume rendering daemon for imaging the digital cadaver. Central to the system is the concept of an anatomical notebook in which students record and annotate the studies.
Linking Anatomy and Physiology in Modeling Respiratory Mechanics
Authors: Kaye J.  , Metaxas D.  , Badler N.  , Clarke J.  , Webber B.
Published: February 2025

We present an integrated 3D virtual environment for the quantitative modeling of the anatomy and the physiology of the pulmonary system. Our approach formally integrates 3D deformable object modeling with conventional models of respiratory mechanics. We demonstrate quantitatively, aspects of the behavior of the respiratory system qualitatively known to clinicians, such as normal quiet breathing and an open sucking chest wound. Our methodology is general and can be used to model both the anatomy and the physiology at many levels of detail. Another important aspect of our approach is that based on our previously developed computer vision techniques we can make such a simulation patient specific. The usefuleness of such a system is manifold. Medical education, surgical planning, disease diagnosis are some of the many areas such a system can be applied.
Guidelines on IT Security Risk Analysis for Health Care IT and Security Personnel
Authors: Davey J.  , King S.
Published: February 2025

The resources required to carry out a detailed risk analysis can be very significant both in terms of skilled manpower and elapsed time. Competing demands for these resources in health care often make it difficult to justify such an investment. Experience of conducting a number of detailed risk analysis studies in various health care establishments (HCEs) in different European countries as part of the SEISMED project, has been used to develop a specific approach to risk analysis which is simple to use and produces speedy results. Recommendations on security measures appropriate to the assessed level of risk are included.
Computer-Based System for Orientation of Treatment by phytotherapy (FITOTER)
Authors: Ionescu-Tirgoviste Constantin  , Patrugan Victor  , Macovei Nicoleta  , Bondarciuc Ala  , Chirila Pavel  , Serbu Lavinia  , Dadarlat Viorel  , Vladescu Gherghina  , Chirila Maria
Published: February 2025

The computer-based system for the guidance of treatment by phytotherapy (FITOTER) assists the physician in treatment prescription FITOTER provides a large amount of data referring to approximately 1000 medicinal plants, 270 essential oils, 2000 diseases / clinical signs / symptoms and 700 pharmacological actions. The system permits:
Economic Analysis of Telemedicine
Authors: Chae Young Moon  , Lee Hae Jong  , Jo Jaegoog  , Choi Hyung Sik
Published: February 2025

Telemedicine can increase accessibility to advanced medical technology at the university hospital for community residents living in a remote area. This paper focused on the economic evaluation of telemedicine to identify important factors influencing costs and benefits and to understand how these factors can be changed to improve economic performance of the telemedicine. When the telemedicine project currently operating in Korea was evaluated based on the traditional cost-benefit analysis, the results showed a heavy net loss with a B/C ratio of 0.17. As several values were added to the analysis based on Information Economics approach, B/C ratios steadly increased. When the saving of medical expenses from the early detection of diseases was taken into consideration, the ratio exceeded the break-even point. From the sensitivity analysis, a number of patients and the cost for equipment and communication were found to be the key factors for influencing economic performance of telemedicine.
Modeling using the Visible Human Dataset
Authors: Gingins P  , Beylot P  , Kalra P  , Magnenat Thalmann N  , Maurel W  , Thalmann D  , Fasel J
Published: February 2025

Modeling with medical images in this context provides both structural and topological information of different elements. In addition to displaying these elements, the interest is in using them for physically based deformation simulation, motion generation and analysis, and model validation. The Visible Human Dataset (VHD) has provided a referential standard as medical image data for modeling. Surface based models fitting to the boundary of the medical image data are extracted and interactive 3D tools are employed for their investigation, analysis and manipulation. A comprehensive database consisting of the structural as well as topological description of a body part (here the upper limb) is built. In addition to the medical field, topological modeling of human anatomy applies to other areas such as sports, education and entertainment involving animation/simulation.
Computer Supported Cooperative Work in Clinical Practice
Authors: Bardram Jakob  , Sølvkjær Martin
Published: February 2025

The main usage of computers in medical settings has been organisational and administrative oriented. When shifting the orientation toward computerised tools supporting clinical work practice, the nature of the work and the collaboration between health professionals has to been considered. This paper reports from a research project established between a software company and a Danish hospital. The project focus on how to take into consideration collaborative aspect of clinical work practice, when designing computerised tools for health professionals.
Legal Liability Issues in Health Care Telematics
Authors: Laske Caroline
Published: February 2025

This paper deals with questions of liability that may arise with the implementation and use of telematics and informatics in the health care sector. Traditionally liability has evolved around the responsible health care professionals. However, with the increasing reliance on inforniatics and telematics in health care may come a shift away from this concept of liability to the idea of shared liability between the responsible health care professionals and those who have provided this technology.
Extended Neural Networks for Signal Detection and Classification: An Approach for Simultaneous Optimization of Parameterized Preprocessing and Neural Networks
Authors: Doering A.  , Witte H.
Published: February 2025

In this contribution, a generic framework for the simultaneous adaptation of a neural classifier and a parameter–controlled preprocessing scheme is presented. Training algorithms are introduced for preprocessing methods with both differentiable and non–differentiable (with respect to the controlling parameters) transfer functions. As an example, an Extended Neural Network that consists of a bank of quadrature filters (preprocessing stage) and a Multi-Layer-Perceptron (classification stage) was used for the segmentation of discontinuous neonatal EEG. Since the spectral characterisation of the segment classes (particularly of the burst onset, [7]) is interindividually different, the “tuning” of the standard filters' mean frequencies with the proposed algorithm improves the segmentation performance significantly.
1/f Modeling of Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Spectra
Authors: Di Rienzo Marco  , Parati Gianfranco  , Pedotti Antonio  , Castiglioni Paolo
Published: February 2025

The first observations of a 1/f trend in the spectrum of heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) signals date back to 1982 and 1990, respectively. Ever since, a number of studies have suggested that the analysis of this spectral trend may be a valuable tool for investigating the physiological mechanisms involved in cardiovascular regulation and for assessing their derangement in pathological conditions. The spectral analysis of BP and HR tracings recorded in cats before and after the surgical opening of the baroreflex loop, offered us the opportunity to address some yet unclear aspects related to the 1/f trend occurring in BP and HR spectra, namely: 1) the role played by the baroreflex in the genesis of the 1/f trend; 2) the ability of a single 1/f curve to correctly model the spectra; 3) the methodology required for the estimation of the regression line corresponding to the 1/f curve when spectra are plotted in a log-Iog scale. The results we obtained indicate that 1) baroreflex denervation disrupts the 1/f trend of BP spectra but does not modify the same trend in the HR spectra; 2) in pathological conditions a single 1/f line may be inadequate to describe the BP spectra; and 3) the slope of the regression line representing the 1/f trend strongly dependent on the frequency region over which the line is estimated, thus prompting for the establishment of standards in the modeling procedure.