bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growing-up Amidst Military Violence: Socio-Ecological Implication of Resilience in Palestine
Authors: Veronese Guido  , Said Mahmoud  , Castiglioni Marco
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to explore some internal and external oppressive practices that create serious risks to the physical and psychological health of Palestinian children. The typical stories of three children interviewed at Jenin refugee camp are subjected to content analyis. This analysis also extends to the micro and macro social developmental context of these children (which they share with the entire child population of the camp). Key themes emerging from the analysis include the need to “redeem” grandparents and parents (depressed, preoccupied, without hope), intolerance of imprisonment and being coerced into confined spaces (which are invaded on a daily basis), the need for space to play in, the acceleration, through violence, of the rite of passage towards adulthood. The current conditions endured by the children of the refugee camp make you imagining a possible agreement to fighting groups in adolescence or adulthood. This does not mean that families encourage their children to engage in guerrilla warfare or other terrorist acts. The motivations leading to dangerous practices and risk factors are discussed.
RNA for NMR
Authors: Erat Michèle C.
Published: February 2025

Despite its relatively simple primary sequence, ribonucleic acids (RNA) fold into complex three-dimensional structures that, often together with tightly bound protein partners, play important roles within the cell. It is therefore of major importance to decipher the three dimensional structures of these fascinating molecules at an atomic scale. NMR has often proven the method of choice in structure determination of nucleic acids. 42.4% of all nucleic acid structures deposited in the PDB database by July 2009 were solved by NMR. This chapter will focus on in vitro transcription and purification of RNA samples for investigation by NMR. Crucial parameters for the success of a transcription reaction will be discussed and strategies to avoid and detect RNase contamination will be outlined. The problem of distinguishing between a hairpin and a duplex RNA will be considered briefly, as this is a recurring issue when pursuing structural studies with RNA. Often it is desirable to obtain RNAs with 100% homogeneous ends. This can be achieved by self-cleaving ribozymes at each end of the transcript, a strategy that will be discussed herein. This chapter aims to provide a toolkit for successful sample preparation in your own laboratory and provide you the opportunity to immerse yourself into the RNA world.
NMR Spectroscopy for Investigating Larger Nucleic Acids
Authors: Clos II Lawrence J.  , Butcher Samuel E.  , Wang Yun-Xing
Published: February 2025

Investigation of large nucleic acids (> 30 kDa) challenges the current limits of NMR spectroscopy. Extended helical regions in RNA and DNA increase correlation times more so than for proteins of comparable size, resulting in line broadening and reduced sensitivity. Also, the lower proton density and poor proton spectral dispersion in nucleic acids can reduce the effectiveness of traditional solution NMR methods in studies of large nucleic acids. These limitations represent a substantial hindrance to the future investigation of biologically relevant large nucleic acid structures. Herein we describe methods that have been implemented to help overcome these challenges and extend the size limits of nucleic acid NMR spectroscopy, including construct design, selective isotopic labeling, multi-dimensional NMR experiments and complementary techniques.
Convex Discrete Optimization
Authors: Onn Shmuel
Published: February 2025

We develop an algorithmic theory of convex optimization over discrete sets. Using a combination of algebraic and geometric tools we are able to provide polynomial time algorithms for solving broad classes of convex combinatorial optimization problems and convex integer programming problems in variable dimension. We discuss some of the many applications of this theory including to quadratic programming, matroids, bin packing and cutting-stock problems, vector partitioning and clustering, multiway transportation problems, and privacy and confidential statistical data disclosure. Highlights of our work include a strongly polynomial time algorithm for convex and linear combinatorial optimization over any family presented by a membership oracle when the underlying polytope has few edge-directions; a new theory of so-termed n-fold integer programming, yielding polynomial time solution of important and natural classes of convex and linear integer programming problems in variable dimension; and a complete complexity classification of high dimensional transportation problems, with practical applications to fundamental problems in privacy and confidential statistical data disclosure.
Estimation of Working Memory in Macaques for Studying Drugs for the Treatment of Cognitive Disorders
Authors: Buccafusco Jerry J.
Published: February 2025

Non-human primates have served as subjects for studies of the cognition-enhancing potential of novel pharmacological agents for over 25 years. Only recently has a greater appreciation of the translational applicability of this model been realized. Though most Old-World monkeys do not appear to acquire an Alzheimer's-like syndrome in old age, their value resides in the brain physiology they have in common with humans. Paradigms like the delayed matching-to-sample task engender behavior that models aspects of working memory that are substrates for the actions of cognition-enhancing drugs. Our studies have provided information relevant to factors that limit the effectiveness of clinical trial design for compounds that potentially improve cognition. For example, cognition-enhancing compounds from different pharmacological classes, when administered to monkeys, can exhibit remarkable pharmacodynamic effects that outlast the presence of the drug in the body. Studies with non-human primates also can provide information regarding dose ranges and individual subject sensitivity experienced in the clinic. Components of working memory are differentially sensitive to drug effects and may be characterized by different dose ranges for certain compounds, even within the same task. Examples are provided that underscore the possible idiosyncrasies of drug action in the pharmacology of cognition –which could be of critical importance in the design of clinical trials.
Unveiling “The Switch” from Aging to Alzheimer's Disease with the Senescence-Accelerated Mouse Model (SAMP8)
Authors: Chang Jaewon  , Pallas Merce  , Zhu Xiongwei  , Kim Hyun-Jin  , Camins Antoni  , Lee Hyoung-gon  , Perry George  , Smith Mark A.  , Casadesus Gemma
Published: February 2025

Current mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are restricted to the expression of AD-related pathology associated with specific mutations present in early-onset familial AD and thus represent <5% of AD cases. To date there are no mouse lines that model late-onset/age-related AD, the feature which accounts for the vast majority of cases. As such, based on current mutation-associated models, the chronology of events that lead to the disease in the aged population is difficult to establish. However, published data show that senescence-accelerated mouse (SAMP8), as a model of aging, display many features that are known to occur early in the pathogenesis of AD such as increased oxidative stress, amyloid-β alterations, and tau phosphorylation. Therefore, SAMP8 mice may be an excellent model for studying the earliest neurodegenerative changes associated with AD and provide a more encompassing picture of human disease, a syndrome triggered by a combination of age-related events. Here, the neurochemical, neuropathological, and behavioral alterations, characterized in SAMP8 mice are critically reviewed and discussed in relation to the potential use of this mouse model in the study of AD pathogenesis.
Role of Media Communication in Preventing Natural Disasters in Romania
Authors: Toma Alexandru  , Lobiuc Andrei  , Strungaru Ştefan-Adrian  , Toma Ovidiu
Published: February 2025

Communications have an important role in preventing natural disasters. In the case of natural disasters, Romanian press institutions constitute an important, and many times efficient, element in the communication process between competent institutions and the population of the country. In recent years, Romanian television and radio stations allotted significant time to news, information magazines, and interviews which have subjects aimed at preventing disasters of floods and informing the population with regard to the measures which must be adopted.
Risk Perception and Social Vulnerability in Local Communities: A Case Study for Băiuţ Area, Maramureş County, Romania
Authors: Ozunu Alexandru  , Gagiu Andra  , Costan Camelia  , Nour Eugen
Published: February 2025

The issues of vulnerable communities, and their perception of their exposure to natural hazards, are widely considered current interest topics. Vulnerability assessments focus on groups and social units and are shaped by a number of factors including risk perception, as it is common knowledge that adjustment basically depends on how people perceive risks for themselves. The purpose of this research was to better understand individual and group risk perceptions and the manner in which they can influence the social vulnerability of a community in the Băiuţ commune in Romania. The study was based on investigation methods specific to geography and social sciences, and the analysis was focused on finding the multiple pressures perceived by the local population, estimating the capacity of the community to cope with these pressures and the adaptation options which should be taken to ensure their sustainable development.
Numerical Evaluation of Microwave Testing for Pipe Thinning
Authors: Sakai Yasutomo  , Yusa Noritaka  , Hasizume Hidetoshi
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the applicability of using microwaves for the inspection of pipe wall thinning by using numerical simulations and experiments. The configuration considered in this study is an axisymmetric one consisting of a straight brass tube and coaxial cables. After the agreement between three-dimensional numerical simulations and experimental result is confirmed, experiments to locate wall thinning are carried out. Clear signals due to the wall thinning are obtained. The time of flight of microwaves agrees with the theoretical prediction, which demonstrates the possibility of locating wall thinning from microwave signals.
Computation of the magnetic field due to a defect embedded in a planar stratified media: Application to AC field measurement techniques
Authors: Prémel Denis  , Pichenot Grégoire
Published: February 2025

Eddy current techniques are useful for the detection and the characterization of flaws in conductive structures. The flaw signal results from the measurement of the local punctual value of the perturbed magnetic field above the metal surface in the vicinity of the defect by using some magnetic field sensor (Giant Magneto Resistance sensor (GMR) or Giant Magnetic Impedance sensor (GMI). This paper aims to describe a semi-analytical numerical model integrated into the CIVA platform which is able to compute the flaw signal due to a given notch embedded in a planar stratified media. The inducer may be chosen in a list of available exciting coils into CIVA. Some numerical experiments and a comparison between simulated data and experimental data show the validity of the new developments.
An ECT Probe with Widely Spaced Coils for Local Wall Thinning in Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Yamamoto Toshihiro  , Uchimoto Tetsuya  , Takagi Toshiyuki
Published: February 2025

Currently, local wall thinning on the inner surface of a pipe is evaluated mostly by ultrasonic thickness measurement from the outer surface of the pipe in nuclear power plants in Japan. However, it has been pointed out that there are two major issues of this evaluation method. Firstly, this method is not able to evaluate local wall thinning from the top of a reinforcing plate that covers the outer surface of a pipe because this two-layer structure hinders the propagation of ultrasound. Secondly, because ultrasonic thickness measurement of a pipe wall is conducted at certain intervals on the outer surface of the pipe, it may overlook a hole-like defect if the defect size is small compared to this interval. We propose an eddy current testing (ECT) method using widely spaced excitation and pick-up coils to alleviate these problems. Our experimental results show this method can be applied to inspection of a double plate that consists of two 8 mm-thick austenitic stainless steel plates, and a defect indication is observed in a much larger area than the defect.
In-Line Thin Film Characterization Using Eddy Current Techniques
Authors: Hillmann Susanne  , Klein Marcus  , Heuer Henning
Published: February 2025

Thin films are successfully used in many different ways as functional layers in various areas of science, technology, and medicine. The coatings are produced using different methods, such as evaporating, sputtering, or chemical vapor deposition and have different properties, such as adhesion, specific electric resistance, and diffusion coefficient. For all applications, the analysis of coating thicknesses plays an important role, because most of the operating and performance characteristics are a function of the coating thickness. Here, in particular, are recognized in-line-methods, working contact-less, very fast, and in a vacuum. For coatings with thicknesses in the nanometer range and lower micrometer range, Eddy Current systems are especially well adapted. By using a special transmission mode sensor application, the method is very well suited for in-line inspections. Through optimization of the measuring system, sensors, and algorithms it is possible to largely widen the limits of the measurement system and to achieve very high accuracy. The following report presents results obtained with an Eddy Current measurement system working in transmission mode on samples with different single-layer and multi-layer coatings in the nanometer range.
Evaluation of Plastic Deformation in Steels by Magnetic Hysteresis Measurements
Authors: Vértesy Gábor  , Ueda Shuzo  , Uchimoto Tetsuya  , Takagi Toshiyuki  , Tomáš Ivan  , Vértesy Zofia
Published: February 2025

Tensile tests of plastically deformed specimens were performed in order to investigate the relation between variation of magnetic characteristics and residual plastic strain. Deformed stainless steel (SUS316L) and carbon steel (SS400) specimens were investigated by the method of Magnetic Adaptive Testing, measuring and evaluating series of minor magnetic hysteresis loops. Reliable correlation was found between magnetic parameters and residual strain of the specimens. Magnetic descriptors also depend on the orientation of magnetizing field with respect to the direction of elongation. Based on these results, Magnetic Adaptive Testing is suggested as a highly promising non-destructive method for monitoring plastic deformation in different types of steel.
Application of Microwave Interferometry in Complex Engineered Dielectric Materials
Authors: Schmidt Karl  , Little Jack
Published: February 2025

A portable microwave interferometry system has been demonstrated to detect material properties in high performance materials including engineered ceramics, organic and ceramic composites and other composite dielectric materials. The technique detects and images internal cracks, internal laminar features such as disbonds and variations in material properties such as density. It requires access to only one surface, and no coupling medium. Other NDE methods and destructive examination are used to verify performance.
Microwave Antenna Sensors for Fatigue Crack Monitoring Under Lap-joints
Authors: Erdmann Justin  , Huang Haiying
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a microwave antenna sensor that has the ability to monitor fatigue crack growth between lap joints where compressive force is present or in any other areas where a crack is hidden between two parts of a structure. The sensor is designed to be low profile, light weight, and conformal, making it ideal for aerospace applications and thus minimizing manual inspection times. The design of a fatigue sample to simulate a lap joint is presented. The antenna sensor was fabricated on the fatigue sample and tested under cyclic loading. The experiment results indicated that the microwave antenna sensor can monitor the crack growth as well as the crack orientation.
Fast Multipole Method for 3D Electromagnetic Boundary Integral Equations. Application to Non Destructive Testing on Complex 3D Geometries
Authors: Lim Tekoing  , Pichenot Gregoire  , Bonnet Marc
Published: February 2025

The motivation of this work is to develop a computational treatment of eddy current simulation applicable to complex 3D geometries. To this end, an approach based on surface integral equations and involving the homogeneous full-space Green's function and dyad is developed. A Galerkin variant of the method of moments, using bilinear basis functions, is employed for discretizing the surface integral equations, leading to a linear system. Solving the linear system using a direct matrix solver is prohibitively expensive in computing time and memory resources. This difficulty is circumvented by using an iterative solver (typically GMRES) together with the Fast Multipole Method (FMM). The response of an eddy current probe is finally expressed with the Auld reciprocity theorem.
Efficient computation of eddy current crack signals
Authors: Theodoulidis Theodoros
Published: February 2025

In simulations of eddy current inspections using the boundary element method (BEM) is is often the case that the calculation of the system matrix carries the largest computational cost. This matrix calculation typically makes use of a Green's function expressed as a Fourier integral. The present study has aimed to reduce the computational cost by adopting an alternative approach for the rapid computation of the Green's function in the spatial domain. This is possible by employing Sommerfeld integral expressions and by approximating them in terms of discrete complex images. Theoretical results are compared to both benchmark experimental data for a semi-elliptical crack and to numerical data from a finite element commercial package. Agreement is excellent over a wide frequency range.
Experiences with Smart Homes for Older People
Authors: Van Berlo Ad
Published: February 2025

In the Netherlands, in the late 90's a first pilot with 120 smart home apartments for independent living of senior citizens was realised. The home automation consisted of all sorts of applications for safety & security, care and comfort. The first experiences showed that several mistakes in human interfacing and layout still occurred and clearly tempered the enthusiasm of many residents. Overall however, there is feeling of satisfaction and security among them.
Knowledge Management
Authors: Mantas John  , Liaskos Joseph  , Charalampidou Martha
Published: February 2025

The main target of this chapter is the presentation of the knowledge management approach in the Friendly Rest Room (FRR) European project. The intention was to organize the data collected during the project. The approach is two-fold: the BSCW server and the FRR Knowledge Base. The BSCW server was used in order to develop a shared workspace for information exchange between the partners of the project. The gathered information in the BSCW environment was used to organize the FRR Knowledge Base, which consists of various elements. The first reactions for this knowledge management effort are also presented.
Development of a Mouthpiece Type Remote Controller for People with Disabilities
Authors: Terashima Shojiro George  , Satoh Eiichi  , Kotake Kazuo  , Sakamaki Isao
Published: February 2025

Persons with disabilities from cervical level spinal cord injuries have difficulty with activities of daily living, such as turning switches ON or OFF and driving powered wheelchair. A variety of operation devices have been developed for people with such serious disabilities: voice or breath control, head motion control and eye movement control systems etc. for example. Each has its own merits and disadvantages respectively, but a need still exists to develop other types of device interfaces. Tongue movement control is also an option and is one of solutions applied to several assistive devices for persons with disabilities. In this study, we have tried to develop a mouthpiece-type remote controller for those with serious disabilities. This remote controller has passive Radio Frequency Identification transponders, with no batteries required.
Ethical Issues on Clinical Tests Involving Human Participants in Research and Development of Assistive Products
Authors: Suwa Motoi
Published: February 2025

The development of assistive products requires the involvement of experiments involving human participants. While the informed consent process and Institutional Review Boards (IRB) are essential concepts protecting human rights in any medical, rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology research, they have not been fully established in these areas in Japan. The Japanese Society for Wellbeing Science and Assistive Technology has recognized the importance of this issue and has initiated an effort to establish a review board on behalf of individual research institutes to ensure protection of human participants in research studies.
“Go” Play Set after Application of Universal Design
Authors: Sagara Jiro  , Saiki Takahito  , Ota Shosaku  , Sowa Tomoyuki  , Tanioka Iciro  , Matsumura Masaki  , Morino Setsuo  , Yukawa Mitsuhisa
Published: February 2025

“Go” is a traditional game and very popular in the world. The authors have developed new “Go” play set for persons who are blind or have visual impairments using Universal design. This paper describes the outline of “Go” play set first, play set characteristics required by persons who are blind, and then the features of newly designed “Go” play set.
Development of Rehabilitation Systems for Upper Limbs: EMUL, Robotherapist, and PLEMO
Authors: Furusho Junji  , Kikuchi Takehito  , Haraguchi Makoto
Published: February 2025

The human brain is capable of an extraordinary degree of plasticity (self-organization), enabling learning, and leaving open the possibility for motor recovery. Therefore, neural rehabilitation for people who have had cerebral vascular accidents is effective. Using apparatus that applies robotic and virtual reality technologies makes new training methods and exercises in rehabilitation possible. We introduce the development of EMUL, Robotherapist and PLEMO using ER fluid for upper limb rehabilitation.
Flying Yesterday's Aircraft Tomorrow: Parliamentary Oversight of Defence Procurement in the Context of the Sea King Saga
Authors: Labarre Frederic
Published: February 2025

This paper examines Canadian parliamentary oversight of defence procurement by using the controversial replacement process of the Sea King ship-borne helicopters. The aim is to identify the effectiveness and degree of influence of parliamentary oversight process in defence procurement. It then provides courses of action for South Eastern Europe.
Hippocampal Network Alterations in Alzheimer's Disease and DownSyndrome: From Structure to Therapy
Authors: Sanchez Martha Millan  , Moghadam Sarah  , Naik Priyanka  , Martin Kara J.  , Salehi Ahmad
Published: February 2025

Hippocampal structural and functional alterations in Alzheimer's disease (AD), detected by advanced imaging methods, have been linked to significant abnormalities in multiple internal and external networks in this critical brain region. Uncovering the temporal and anatomical pattern of these network alterations would provide important clues into understanding the pathophysiology of AD and suggest new therapeutic strategies for this multi�system and prevalent disorder. Over the last decade, we have focused on studying brain structures that provide major projections to the hippocampus (HC) and the pattern of de-afferentation of this area in mouse models of AD and a related neurodegenerative disorder, i.e. Down syndrome (DS). Our studies have revealed that major inputs into the hippocampal structure undergo significant age-dependent alterations. Studying locus coeruleus (LC), the sole source of noradrenergic terminals for the HC, it has been shown that these neurons show significant age-dependent degeneration in both mouse models of DS and AD. Furthermore, increasing noradrenergic signaling was able to restore cognitive function by improving synaptic plasticity, and possibly promoting microglia recruitment, and amyloid β (Aβ) clearance in transgenic (tg) mouse models of AD. Here, we re-examine the effects of alterations in major inputs to the hippocampal region and their structural and functional consequences in mouse models of neurodegenerative disorders. We will conclude that improving the function of major hippocampal inputs could lead to a significant improvement in cognitive function in both AD and DS.
Section 1: Introduction to Imaging the Alzheimer Brain: The Pathology and Pathophysiological Bases of Alzheimer's Disease: Implications for Advancing Diagnostic Imaging
Authors: Ashford J. Wesson  , Salehi Ahmad  , Furst Ansgar  , Bayley Peter
Published: February 2025

Alzheimer's disease (AD), first described by Alois Alzheimer in 1906, is a combination of neuropathological processes, which is devastating the world socially and economically. The distinct neuropathological observations are the senile plaques, composed predominantly of the amyloid-beta protein, and the neurofibrillary changes (threads and tangles), made of hyperphosphorlyated micro-tubule associate protein tau. Autosomal-dominant genetic factors can cause AD under 60 years of age, and Apo-lipo-protein E factors are strongly related to risk after age 60. AD affects basic neuronal plasticity mechanisms leading to relentless loss of memory function that causes insidious and progressive dementia. Recent conceptualizations have emphasized the progression of AD from the earliest abnormal preclinical changes, through appearances of memory and other cognitive impairments, leading to losses of function associated with dementia. This brief summary introduces a compendium of articles on AD which examines the advances in the science, engineering, and technology of imaging the brain to better understand and diagnose AD and develop treatments and cures. This introduction emphasizes the primary importance of understanding pathology, pathophysiology, and causation, genetic and environmental. The approaches described in this compendium are arranged according to widely used practices, including structural and functional imaging techniques as well as electro-magneto-encephalography and magnetic resonance spectroscopy, with additional chapters focusing on vascular factors, techniques for assessing longitudinal change, and multi-modal integration for the future. Advances in brain imaging hold the promise to contribute understanding of AD for development of therapies to prevent the disease at its earliest stages, halt its progression, and reverse its dementia.
P300 Energy Loss in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Ashford J. Wesson  , Coburn Kerry L.  , Rose Terrence L.  , Bayley Peter J.
Published: February 2025

The amplitude of the event-related potential P300 component is sensitive to aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Using a standard 20-electrode configuration, the P300 was measured during an “oddball” task in 14 young normal individuals (YN: 21–41 years), 11 elderly normal individuals (EN: 61–80 years), and 23 probable AD patients (AD: 63–93 years; NINCDS-ADRDA criteria). P300 latencies and amplitudes were measured at PZ. Additionally, algorithmic calculations were made from spline plots across the 11 central electrodes for P300 peak voltage latency and total field energy. The measured versus calculated latencies were in general agreement. Furthermore, the measured P300 voltage amplitude was closely related to the calculated total field energy. P300 voltage latency was significantly prolonged in the elderly, but not more so in AD patients (average latency [ms ± SD]; YN, 315 ± 21; EN, 364 ± 48 and AD, 361 ± 56). P300 amplitude showed the expected pattern of change from young to elderly to AD (average voltage [uV ± SD]; YN, 13 ± 5.1; EN, 8.3 ± 2.8; and AD, 4.9 ± 3.3). Summing the squares of each wave (an indication of power: P = V2R) showed the expected change with age more strongly than the P300 amplitude (average ± SD; YN, 44,397 ± 32,386; EN, 9,996 ± 7,018; and AD, 3,347 ± 2,971). Mini-Mental State Exam scores showed no relationship to P300 latency and minimal relationship to amplitude. Results suggest that the P300 is not obliterated in early AD, but is barely discernable in late AD. The approaches to calculating the P300 described here are potentially useful for measuring specific neural systems affected by aging and AD.
Searching for Novel Biomarkers Using High Resolution Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Yassa Michael A.
Published: February 2025

Diffusion tensor imaging is capable of resolving large fiber bundles (e.g. the corpus callosum) and has been quite informative in understanding the overall structural connectivity of the brain. Recent data has shown that traditional resolution limitations can be exceeded in humans in vivo to submillimeter resolution. This chapter discusses these new techniques, and specific applications to small pathways such as the perforant path in the medial temporal lobe. High-resolution diffusion tensor imaging is a promising new tool that can be used to discover novel biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease and other disorders. It allows for a much more detailed investigation of brain white matter than previously possible, perhaps offering clues into the first signs of synaptic deterioration that may precede frank neuronl loss. Although these methods are still in their infancy and many challenges have to be overcome before they can be used in a clinical fashion, results so far have been promising. Challenges and future directions are discussed in detail.
Patterns of Cortical Thickness in Pathologically-Confirmed Typical and Atypical Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Lehmann Manja  , Rohrer Jonathan D.  , Clarkson Matthew J.  , Ridgway Gerard R.  , Scahill Rachael I.  , Modat Marc  , Warren Jason D.  , Ourselin Sebastien  , Barnes Josephine  , Rossor Martin N.  , Fox Nick C.
Published: February 2025

Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be difficult to differentiate clinically from other forms of dementia, such as frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), due to overlapping symptoms. Research studies often base their diagnostic inclusion criteria on clinical rather than pathological data which may mean some subjects are misdiagnosed and misclassified. Recently, methods measuring cortical thickness using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been suggested to be effective in differentiating between clinically-defined AD and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in addition to showing disease-related patterns of atrophy. In this study, cortical thickness was measured in 28 pathologically-confirmed AD patients, of which 11 had a typical amnestic presentation and 17 an atypical presentation during life, 23 pathologically-confirmed FTLD subjects, and 25 healthy controls. Patients with AD pathology, irrespective of clinical diagnosis, showed reduced cortical thickness bilaterally in the medial temporal lobe, posterior cingulate gyrus, precuneus, posterior parietal lobe, and frontal pole compared with controls. Lower cortical thickness in the posterior cingulate gyrus, parietal lobe and frontal pole was shown to be suggestive of AD pathology in patients with behavioural or language deficits. In contrast, lower cortical thickness in the anterior temporal lobe and frontal lobe is indicative of the presence of FTLD pathology in patients with a clinical presentation of FTD. Reduced cortical thickness in the posterior cingulate gyrus is characteristic of AD pathology in patients with typical and atypical clinical presentations of AD, and may assist a clinical distinction of AD pathology from FTLD pathology.
Presence of ApoE ϵ4 Allele Associated with Thinner Frontal Cortex in Middle Age
Authors: Fennema-Notestine Christine  , Panizzon Matthew S.  , Thompson Wesley R.  , Chen Chi-Hua  , Eyler Lisa T.  , Fischl Bruce  , Franz Carol E.  , Grant Michael D.  , Jak Amy J.  , Jernigan Terry L.  , Lyons Michael J.  , Neale Michael C.  , Seidman Larry J.  , Tsuang Ming T.  , Xian Hong  , Dale Anders M.  , Kremen William S.
Published: February 2025

The presence of an ApoE ϵ4 allele (ϵ4+) increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previous studies support an adverse relationship between ϵ4+ status and brain structure and function in mild cognitive impairment and AD; in contrast, the presence of an ϵ2 allele may be protective. Whether these findings reflect disease-related effects or pre-existing endophenotypes, however, remains unclear. The present study examined the influence of ApoE allele status on brain structure solely during middle-age in a large, national sample. Participants were 482 men, ages 51–59, from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA). T1-weighted images were used in volumetric segmentation and cortical surface reconstruction methods to measure regional volume and thickness. Primary linear mixed effects models predicted structural measures with ApoE status (ϵ3/3, ϵ2/3, ϵ3/4) and control variables for effects of site, non-independence of twin data, age, and average cranial vault or cortical thickness. Relative to the ϵ3/3 group, the ϵ3/4 group demonstrated significantly thinner cortex in superior frontal and left rostral and right caudal midfrontal regions; there were no significant effects of ϵ4 status on any temporal lobe measures. The ϵ2/3 group demonstrated significantly thicker right parahippocampal cortex relative to the ϵ3/3 group. The ApoE ϵ4 allele may influence cortical thickness in frontal areas, which are later developing regions thought to be more susceptible to the natural aging process. Previous conflicting findings for mesial temporal regions may be driven by the inclusion of older individuals, who may evidence preclinical manifestations of disease, and by unexamined moderators of ϵ4-related effects. The presence of the ϵ2 allele was related to thicker cortex, supporting a protective role. Ongoing follow-up of the VETSA sample may shed light on the potential for age- and disease-related mediation of the influence of ApoE allele status.
Music Recommendation System Based on Human-to-human Conversation Recognition
Authors: Ohashi Hiromasa  , Hara Sunao  , Kitaoka Norihide  , Takeda Kazuya
Published: February 2025

We developed an ambient system that plays music suitable for the mood of a human-human conversation using words obtained from a continuous-speech recognition system. Using the correspondence be-tween a document space based on the texts related to the music and an acoustic space that expresses various audio features, the continuous-speech recognition results are mapped to an acoustic space. We per-formed a subjective evaluation of the system. The subjects rated the recommended music and the result reveals that the 10 most highly rec-ommended selections included suitable music.
Developing User-centred Research into the Economics of Assistive Technology Drawing on Techniques from Financial Systems Management
Authors: Schraner Ingrid  , Bringolf Jane  , Cummings Elizabeth  , Turner Paul  , Bolzan Natalie
Published: February 2025

Government funded assistive technology (AT) supply schemes in Australia operate at less than optimal levels. Not only are they failing to make best use of limited resources, they are also contributing to detrimental outcomes for AT users. Detriments are caused either by delaying the supply of the devices, or making available only those items fitting within a budget rather than the needs of the AT user. Costing the additional effects of delayed supply or inappropriate supply of AT is necessarily complex and existing economic analysis techniques are not suited to do this. Such costs can be extra or extended hospital stays, additional medication for pain management, lost opportunities for employment and contributions to society, or physical and emotional stress for family carers. The need to take a more holistic approach is therefore evident. To this end we have developed a novel way of using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to document an AT user's current situation and to compare it with a situation the AT user considers optimal. We draw on system-focused stress-testing techniques used in financial systems management to analyze the costs in both situations. The main content of the paper discusses the methodological issues arising from analyzing complex systems in this way, while first results are presented in a separate paper by Bringolf and Schraner in this volume under the title ‘The Economics of One Person's AT System: First Findings’. Here we detail how combining the framework of the ICF with scenario analysis allows us to research the economics of AT. The ICF provides a framework to capture the AT user's perspective of their current situation and their desired optimal situation. The financial systems management techniques can then analyze not only the relevant costs in both situations, but also to include the less visible costs, which often appear only at a later point in time. We conclude that this methodology, whilst still being trialed, provides a useful way of examining complex economic situations. We have one proviso, namely that providing optimal solutions for any individual depends largely on the AT user's level of knowledge about available AT devices, about access to care work, and about ways to enforce the rights to accessible environments and to realize their civil rights. This level of knowledge and the information systems that can increase it may prove to be the next main challenge in providing optimal AT systems to individual users.
ElGo – Electronic Goalkeeper: Making Football More Inclusive to People with Motor Impairments
Authors: Fanucci Luca  , Turturici Mauro  , Iacopetti Fabrizio  , Roncella Roberto  , Frello Antonio  , Sciurti Luca  , Lombardi Michele
Published: February 2025

Objective. Game is an essential aspect of a child's life and is a necessary activity for the creation of a gratifying and pleasant relationship towards life and the surrounding world. In general, playing with friends is an important activity at any age. Among games, an important role is played by sports practiced for recreational purpose, e.g. football, basketball, rugby, but for people with disabilities, a direct participation is often too difficult or impossible. Assistive technology has allowed or made more accessible participation to some games to users with disabilities, for example, videogames, but the gap is still very important for real sports. The idea at the base of ElGo is that a person with disabilities, in particular a child or a teenager, can live the game of football thanks to the possibility of controlling an electromechanic device having the role of a goalkeeper in a football match.
Cross-Cultural Study into the use of Text to Speech with Electronic Files to aid access to Textbooks
Authors: Draffan E.A.  , Wald Mike  , Iwabuchi Mamoru  , Takahashi Maiko  , Nakamura Kenryu
Published: February 2025

Objective. At present, pupils, teachers and parents struggle with the lack of textbooks and supporting materials in accessible formats that can be used by pupils with visual or print impairment including specific reading difficulties such as dyslexia. Independent projects in Japan and the UK were conceived to assess whether the provision of textbooks and teaching materials as electronic files, along with technologies to convert and ‘read’ them could provide a new and sustainable model and enhance the skills of the users.
Chapter 5: Multi-Agent Planning
Authors: El Fallah Seghrouchni Amal  , Hashmi Muhammad Adnan
Published: February 2025

Multi-agent planning is an important issue in the multi-agent systems domain, that poses a number of challenges. As the agents are working in the same environment, they do not have only to plan their actions but also to coordinate their plans, so that they do not have any conflicts among them. It requires both an adequate plan representation and efficient interacting methods allowing agents to coordinate their plans. This chapter tries to answer the following questions: (1) What is multi-agent planning. (2) What are some of its important issues. (3) What are some of the important techniques of multi-agent planning and how can they be classified. We present two techniques in detail. The first one is a recursive model for the representation and the handling of plans by means of Recursive Petri Nets (RPN) which support the specification of concurrent activities, reasoning about simultaneous actions and continuous processes, a theory of verification and mechanisms of transformation (e.g. abstraction, refinement, merging). And in the second one, we describe how an agent can modify his temporal plan, when another agent comes up with a higher priority plan. As the latter has more priority, the former should modify his plan to remove any conflicts.We present a plan merging algorithm supported by a plan repairing algorithm to cope with this situation.
Using Human Factors to Guide the Design and Implementation of Consumer Health Informatics Interventions
Authors: Zayas-Cabán Teresa  , Marquard Jenna L.
Published: February 2025

The use of consumer health informatics (CHI) interventions is proliferating rapidly with little consensus about how CHI interventions should be designed or implemented. While CHI interventions have been shown to improve clinical outcomes, barriers to their use remain. This chapter describes a well-developed conceptual model for program evaluation and suggests how it can be used to guide the design and implementation of CHI interventions, with the goal of supporting the intended outcomes of these interventions and minimizing the unintended outcomes. The chapter then provides an overview of how knowledge from three human factors domains can inform the CHI interventions design and implementation components of the evaluation model. By integrating human factors principles and methods into the evaluation model, developers can reduce barriers to use and minimize resulting unintended consequences of CHI interventions.
Telehealthcare Development & Effectiveness in Taiwan
Authors: Lai Tsai-Ya  , Tarng Jenn-Hwan
Published: February 2025

This article is introducing the current development of telehealthcare and reviewing the past history and effect in Taiwan. Since 2006, the government has deployed several projects to facilitate the development of telehealthcare, which including U-Care (2006), 10 year projecton long term care (2007), Taiwan 12 construction project (2008), and six emerging industries (2009). The currently running project, Telehealthcare Service Development Program, started in 2007. This project is targeting Diabetes Mellitus and the population with Hypertension and also developing two models of service delivery, a Homecare/Community service model and an Institutional Care service model. Seven services are delivered in Homecare/Community service model, which are tele-physiological monitoring, member health management, tele-consulting, tele-health education, medication safety services, living resource referral, and emergency management; five services are delivered in Institutional Care service model, which are tele-consultation, tele-physiological monitoring, tele-visiting for family members, medication safety services, and tele-health education. The significant benefit outcomes for members in this project relate to hospitalization rate, ER admission rate, self-care monitoring, institutional infection rate, unexpected readmission rate, and redundant medication rate, and also the acceptance rate and satisfaction for both members and caregivers and reductions in the burdens on members' family are also relatively high. In the future, development of telehealthcare service will rely on amendment of the current legislation/decree by government, incentivizing of the services by healthcare/insurance providers, and introduction of new business models by all involved industries.
Early detection of damage in thermo-cyclically loaded austenitic materials
Authors: Altpeter Iris  , Tschuncky Ralf  , Hällen Karl  , Dobmann Gerd  , Boller Christian  , Smaga Marek  , Sorich Andreas  , Eifler Dietmar
Published: February 2025

Early detection of damage in cyclically loaded austenitic steel was performed with electromagnetic acoustic transducer measurements in total strain controlled low cycle fatigue tests at ambient and elevated temperature. The application of physically based measurement data, e.g. time of flight from electromagnetically activated ultrasonic signals in austenitic fatigue specimens and total strain, enables measurements of a new hysteresis relationship. This hysteresis gives, in analogy to the stress-strain hysteresis, information about the actual state of fatigue of the austenitic steel and shows significant changes in shape before specimen failure.
Performance Evaluation of Magnetic Type Tactile Sensor
Authors: Nakamoto Hiroyuki  , Goka Masanori  , Takenawa Satoru  , Kida Yasuaki
Published: February 2025

We propose a magnetic type tactile sensor that can measure a three-axis displacement and a three-axis force. Its simple structure comprises two layers, an elastic layer and a substrate layer. The elastic layer is made of an elastic material and houses a cylindrical permanent magnet inside. The substrate layer is a glass epoxy board and has four giant magneto resistance (GMR) elements. Features of this sensor are a wiring reduction, simple structure, and low cost. In this paper, we describe a structure of the sensor. We design three sensors with different sizes by a finite elemental method, and confirm the performances of three prototypes through the laboratory experiments.
GPR – induction electromagnetic sensor data fusion
Authors: Savin Adriana  , Grimberg Raimond  , Steigmann Rozina  , Iftimie Nicoleta
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes the possibility of applying the data fusion provided by two distinct electromagnetic methods for evaluation of soil condition, detection and localization of buried objects - Ground Penetrating Radar and Electromagnetic Induction, based on the evidence theory. The data fusion is made using data provided by a real inspection of a region where are pipes for hot water, placed into a concrete duct bank, at depths over 1.5m under different layers. By performing data fusion the results are much more close to their real values rather than the separate utilization of the information.
Automatic Monitoring of Flexible Risers using Magnetic Barkhausen Noise and clustering methods
Authors: Pérez-Benitez J.A.  , Alberteris-Campos M.  , Caldas-Morgan M.  , Padovese L.R.
Published: February 2025

Flexible risers are used to link subsea pipelines to oil and gas production floating installations. These risers are multilayered pipes formed by an inner flexible metal carcass surrounded by polymer layers and spiral wound steel ligaments, also known as armor wires. In this riser, the armor wires sometimes break during installation or due to mechanical fatigue. Some methods have been proposed to monitor the armor integrity. However, until now there is not a practical method that allows the automatic nondestructive detection of individual armor wires rupture. In this work, a very effective method for the automatic detection of armor wires rupture using Magnetic Barkhausen Noise and clustering methods is presented.