bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration Models in Health Information Systems: Experiences from the PlugIT Project
Authors: Mykkänen Juha  , Porrasmaa Jari  , Korpela Mikko  , Häkkinen Heidi  , Toivanen Marika  , Tuomainen Mika  , Häyrinen Kristiina  , Rannanheimo Juha
Published: February 2025

Different approaches are available for the integration of existing health information systems (HIS) in integration projects. Within the PlugIT project in Finland, we have found it necessary to design and implement integration in a collaborative, multidisciplinary and open way. In this paper, we use some generic integration models and relate them to the methods, solutions and experiences of the project. We summarize the results from nine integration teams, methods development and supporting surveys and studies, and discuss these experiences to provide some guidelines for the HIS integration projects in general.
EVEREST: An Efficient Method for Verification of Digital Signatures in Real-Time Teleradiology
Authors: Bicakci Kemal  , Baykal Nazife
Published: February 2025

The introduction of digital medical images requires a legally binding digital signature that guarantees authenticity and integrity of the image. In real-time teleradiology services, the system is expected to respond very quickly however to verify the signature a considerable amount of time is spent to compute the hash value of the image since the image size might be huge (tens of megabytes). Motivating by this fact, in this paper we propose EVEREST, an efficient methodology for verification. The key observation we have made is that in the traditional verification the processor of the verifying machine is idle (I/O blocked) while the image is downloaded. In EVEREST, to improve the real-time efficiency the receiver can perform most of the hash computation while he is receiving the image itself. One other important advantage of our scheme is the communication efficiency since getting the entire image file is no longer necessary to detect the tampering.
Institutional Decision-Making for Medical Device Purchasing: Evaluating Patient Safety
Authors: Keselman Alla  , Tang Xiaozhou  , Patel Vimla L.  , Johnson Todd R.  , Zhang Jiajie
Published: February 2025

Many medical devices that are currently on the market are sub-optimal for human use, thus contributing to medical errors. This places significant responsibility for device selection on purchasers. This paper describes a retrospective analysis of decision making processes for infusion pump selection in three large hospitals and focuses on patient safety. Through a series of detailed interviews and a study of relevant documentation we characterized the nature of the decision-making, patterns of communication, and the roles of different participants. Findings suggest that success of the process is related to effective communication among participants with different expertise and adequate device usability assessment during the process. The paper discusses how information technology could provide support to distributed institutional decision making.
Design, Implementation and Management of a Web-Based Data Entry System for ClinicalTrials.gov
Authors: Gillen John E.  , Tse Tony  , Ide Nicholas C.  , McCray Alexa T.
Published: February 2025

We describe the development and deployment of a web-based authoring capability, the first implementation of which is used for data entry and management in support of the ClinicalTrials.gov web site. The system facilitates efficient collection of summary protocol information from multiple geographically-dispersed organizations. We explain the motivation for developing this capability, and cite critical design goals. We then describe system design, implementation and operation, focusing on essential aspects of each. We conclude with a summary of the extent to which we met our stated objectives.
Community-wide Information Systems Design: Concepts and an Illustration
Authors: Brennan Patricia Flatley  , Norcross Natalie  , Grindrod David  , Sopher Marti
Published: February 2025

As health care migrates from institutions to the community, and as recognition that achievement of health and health care goals requires information systems that transcend institutional barriers, models for community-wide information systems design are needed. This paper reviews various approaches to communitybased information systems design, draws design principles from the experiences of past innovations, and describes our team’s experience in partnering with a community health planning group to create information systems innovations that support health in the community. Key themes that guide community-wide information systems design include (1) partnerships; (2) brokering and integrating existing initiatives; and (3) creating business models for sustainability.
Improving Cancer Related Symptom Management with Collaborative Healthware
Authors: Goldsmith Denise  , McDermott David  , Safran Charles
Published: February 2025

We conducted a feasibility study of an innovative Internet-based system, designed to support collaboration between patients and providers around cancer related symptom management. Our objective was to demonstrate the system's potential to enhance communication and clinical decision making between patients and their providers. Considering the high prevalence of cancer related symptoms and their impact on patients' quality of life, enhanced collaboration regarding assessment and treatment could significantly reduce illness burden. Twenty-seven patients with known malignancy and twenty-nine oncology clinicians were interviewed to identify functional requirements for the system. Patients reported the ability, willingness and desire to use a computer to help them manage their cancer related symptoms. Physicians recognized the potential of this system to improve communication and collaboration around symptom management, but voiced concern regarding a potential increased workload. Nurse providers had greater interest in reviewing symptoms online than did their physician counterparts. Patients in this study believe that using an Internet based system to report their cancer related symptoms would improve the quality of the care they receive. Our findings suggest that both patients and clinicians are concerned about the management of cancer related symptoms and would use Internet-based tools if they were shown to improve care.
Drug Interaction Ontology (DIO) for Inferences of Possible Drug-drug Interactions
Authors: Yoshikawa Sumi  , Satou Kenji  , Konagaya Akihiko
Published: February 2025

Drug Interaction Ontology (DIO) was developed for formal representation of pharmacological knowledge. It provides a fundamental framework for accumulation of reusable knowledge components in molecular pharmacology. Ontology was employed and implemented as a relational model. Some features include: 1) Drug-biomolecule interaction was assumed as a primitive knowledge element. 2) Symbolic representation was developed for drug-biomolecule interaction. Consequences of two conjugated units of interaction were defined by using symbols. These are applied for query development for identification of possible drug-drug interaction. 3) The triadic relationship model was developed as a ground model for biological interactions and/or function, including semantic ones. One application of DIO is to support hypothesis generation of drug interaction by providing new hypotheses from a structured database storing literature information on known drug-biomolecule interactions. A knowledge base using DIO that contains information beginning with anti-cancer drugs is under development. Detection of possible drug interaction was tested and its capacity to lead clinically known ones was confirmed. The system generated theoretically possible drug-drug interactions, which implies potential usefulness of new drugs to be tested before actual clinical application. In this paper, sorivudine and 5-fluorouracil mediated by dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase are presented.
Ontology-Based Error Detection in SNOMED-CT®
Authors: Ceusters Werner  , Smith Barry  , Kumar Anand  , Dhaen Christoffel
Published: February 2025

Quality assurance in large terminologies is a difficult issue. We present two algorithms that can help terminology developers and users to identify potential areas of improvement. We demonstrate the methodology by applying the algorithms to one of the most popular terminologies, SNOMED-CT®. Analysis of the results provides evidence for the thesis that both formal logical and linguistic tools should be used in the development and quality- assurance process of large terminologies.
The Oncological Nurse Assistant: A Web-Based Intelligent Oncological Nurse Advisor
Authors: Bellika Johan Gustav  , Hartvigsen Gunnar
Published: February 2025

As more people get cancer the need for medical guidance increases. In Norway, one of the providers of medical guidelines is the Norwegian Cancer Association where oncological nurses assist people with a cancer diagnosis or their relatives. The nurses search through both national and internal guidebooks and web pages. The input to this process is mostly discharge letters. The whole process is time consuming. To serve more patients, PaSent, a web-based intelligent oncological nurse advisor, has been developed. Through using discharge letters as input to our neural network based information retrieval system PaSent, we have been able to provide relevant medical information to the patient as well as to the health personnel themselves. The PaSent search method uses predefined knowledge about the context, paired with the vocabulary of the input document, to compute a relevance measure for a potential result document. The system has been validated by oncological nurses and medical doctors. In the reported experiments, the achieved search results from PaSent have been comparable to the results achieved by the health personnel.
Informed Consent to the Secondary Use of EHRs: Informatic rights and their limitations
Authors: Kluge Eike-Henner W.
Published: February 2025

It is frequently asserted that the secondary use of data contained in electronic health records (EHRs) requires the informed consent of the subjects of these records. This paper argues that while correct in principle, this has four important ethically based limitations: when it seriously threatens the equal and competing right of others, when it undermines the ability of health care providers to carry out their mandates, when it imperils the possibility of establishing and maintaining a health care system in the first place, and when it makes bona fide research impossible. Nevertheless, as a general rule, when consent can be had, it should be had. This paper provides a theoretical basis for these claims by looking at the nature and role of EHRs and provides some possible approaches for incorporating them into the health care delivery process.
Edutainment Tools for Initial Education of Type-1 Diabetes Mellitus: Initial Diabetes Education with Fun
Authors: Aoki Noriaki  , Ohta Sachiko  , Masuda Hiroyuki  , Naito Tokihiro  , Sawai Takahiro  , Nishida Kayo  , Okada Taisuke  , Oishi Mariko  , Iwasawa Yuko  , Toyomasu Keiko  , Hira Kenji  , Fukui Tsuguya
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Appropriate initial education for type-l diabetes mellitus patients is important to prevent late complications. However, type-l diabetic children have not appreciated tra- ditional learning methods since they rarely contain the ele-ments of fun and interactivity. In this study, we developed, implemented and evaluated a preliminary version of edutainment tools for initial education for type-l diabetic children.
Design of Interactive Health Drama Built on Social Realism
Authors: Graspemo Gabriella  , Hassling Linda  , Nordfeldt Sam  , Eriksson Henrik  , Timpka Toomas
Published: February 2025

There are many psychosocial aspects of chronic diseases, such as diabetes. Educational multimedia can support patients with chronic diseases and their families by communicating narratives based on social realism. The production of such socio-realistic interactive health dramas requires systematic methods, especially for the identification of significant stories. The aim of this study is to explore the use of self-documentary video in the design of an Interactive Health Drama environment to support diabetic adolescents and their families. In particular, the potential of the self-documentary video for story development in combination with qualitative interviews were explored. The proposed approach, when further developed, is intended to enable all types of chronic disease patients to work with their specific psychosocial problems in a supportive and stimulating environment adapted to their personality and preferences.
Contextual Annotation of Web Pages for Interactive Browsing
Authors: Mulligen Erik van  , Diwersy Mario  , Schijvenaars Bob  , Weeber Marc  , van der Eijk Christiaan  , Jelier Rob  , Schuemie Martijn  , Kors Jan  , Mons Barend
Published: February 2025

With the information on the World Wide Web and in specialized databases exploding, researchers and physicians are in dire need to browse efficiently though the large corpus of information resources in their field of interest. The focus is not any longer to find everything related to your interest, but it shifts to zooming in, based on context and expanding again in neighboring knowledge domains. This paper describes an attempt to develop a completely new, interactive way of browsing distributed corpora of information without the need for multiple different queries in different information resources.
Cognitive Human Factors for Telemedicine Systems
Authors: Piazza Matteo  , Giorgino Toni  , Azzini Ivano  , Stefanelli Mario  , Luo Roger
Published: February 2025

The recent integration of telephony systems with information and communication technology (ICT) enables the development of innovative tools for telemedicine. The dissemination and widespread acceptance of telephone-based care monitoring systems challenge the researcher to deal with the cognitive factors involved in the patient-physician interaction, and the way they should be to shape up the technological solutions. This paper proposes a model that describes the impact of socio-cognitive factors in the complex process of health care management. The model has been used to design and develop a telephone system for the management of hypertensive patient within the EUfunded Homey project. The knowledge existed in a widely accepted guideline for the care of hypertension has been represented and augmented through the proposed cognitive model. The final product is an intelligent system able to manage an adaptive dialogue. It monitors patients’ adherence and increases their involvement by promoting self-care through frequent virtual visits, which is complementary to the traditional face-to-face encounters with their primary care physicians.
Cognitive Meta-learning of Syntactically Inferred Concepts
Authors: Gaglio Salvatore  , Lo Re Giuseppe  , Ortolani Marco
Published: February 2025

This paper outlines a proposal for a two-level cognitive architecture reproducing the process of abstract thinking in human beings. The key idea is the use of a level devoted to the extraction of compact representation for basic concepts, with additional syntactic inference carried on at a meta-level, in order to provide generalization. Higher-level concepts are inferred according to a principle of simplicity, consistent with Kolmogorov complexity, and merged back into the lower level in order to widen the underlying knowledge base.
Computational Modeling of Therapies related to Cognitive Vulnerability and Coping
Authors: Aziz Azizi Ab  , Klein Michel C.A.
Published: February 2025

Due to recent research, the neurobiological elements behind mental disorders such as depression become more and more clear. This paper presents an integrated computational model based on neurobiological insights and psychological theories. The model is used to analyse the effect of existing psychological treatments. The simulation experiments give an insight in the interaction between different cognitive components in mental disorders and illustrates why different treatments can have different effects for people with different genetic dispositions.
Conscious expectation system
Authors: Katayama Kazuki  , Takeno Junichi
Published: February 2025

The authors are studying ways to create a function similar to human consciousness based on biologically inspired ideas and using an engineering approach. The authors have arrived at the idea that, “the consistency of cognition and behavior is the origin of human consciousness.” Their belief is derived from studying findings in various fields of research including information science, brain science, philosophy, and psychology. Based on their idea, the authors have developed the recurrent neural network module named Module of Nerves for Advanced Dynamics, or MoNAD, which is very capable of explaining the phenomena of human consciousness. Using this module, the authors further developed a system to consciously expect upcoming events.
SPIRE – A BICA-Emulated Strategic Decision Support System
Authors: Klein Harold E.
Published: February 2025

A strategic decision support system (SDSS) called SPIRE has been developed and applied that is responsive to the needs of a decision maker confronting a complex and/or chaotic situation. Such situations are not amenable to analytical resolution, employing essentially deductive reasoning. SPIRE facilitates or “supports” the cognitive function of a human decision maker rather than being the engine for the production of the decision itself, aiming to trigger inductive reasoning. The information organization of SPIRE output is analogous to neuronal group architecture. SPIRE diagrams provide the decision maker with visual cognitive frames to rationally address the complex situation at hand; these also answer critical strategic questions. A SPIRE application will be presented.
Neuromorphic and Brain-Based Robots
Authors: Krichmar Jeffrey L.  , Wagatsuma Hiroaki
Published: February 2025

Neuromorphic and brain-based robotics have enormous potential for furthering our understanding of the brain. By embodying models of the brain on robotic platforms, researchers can investigate the roots of biological intelligence and work towards the development of truly intelligent machines. This paper discusses the history of the field and its potential. We give examples of biologically inspired robot designs and neural architectures that lead to brain-based robots. Looking to the future, we consider the development of cognitive, or even conscious, robots that display the adaptability and intelligence of biological organisms.
Learning and Self-Regulation through Integrated Agent-Based System
Authors: Rossi Pier Giuseppe  , Carletti Simone  , Impedovo Maria Antonietta
Published: February 2025

The analysis of support forum messages carried out in one of our online, post-graduate courses showed that nearly 62% of questions concerned issues already covered in material scattered across the Learning Management System and within course structure; collected student tracking data can help tutors to understand reasons why users seem to prefer to ask direct questions rather than browsing through provided information. Results of this study indicate that learners need a simpler way to look for answers and that enabling self-regulating processes may help reducing the work load of tutors by having a chatbot as information broker. This paper indicates planned work to enhance our LMS-integrated multiagent system in order to support our learners' needs.
A Computational Agent Model Using Internal Simulation to Generate Emotional Dream Episodes
Authors: Treur Jan
Published: February 2025

In this paper a computational agent model is presented that models dreaming based on internal simulation. Building blocks for this internal simulation are memory elements in the form of sensory representations and their associated emotions. In the model, under influence of associated feeling levels and mutual competition, some sensory representation states pop up in different dream episodes. The activation levels of both the feeling and the sensory representation states are regulated by control states. The model was evaluated by a number of simulation experiments for different scenarios.
Architectures of Complex Learning Systems
Authors: Coward L. Andrew  , Gedeon Tamas O.
Published: February 2025

A system which performs a complex combination of behaviours has two superficially independent architectures. One is the functional architecture, which separates the behavioural features of the system into feature modules made up of groups of similar behaviours, and defines the interactions between features. The other is the system architecture (alternatively called the physical or information process architecture) which separates the physical information handling resources of the system into modules that perform different types of information processes, each module optimized to perform a different type of process. Any one feature module will employ information processes performed by many or all resource modules. Many different functional architectures are possible, but the need to limit the resources supporting large numbers of different behaviours tends to constrain the form of the system architecture. In the limiting case as the ratio of the number of behaviours learned to the available resources becomes very large, the system architecture is constrained into a very specific form. In the case of a complex learning system this form is called the recommendation architecture. Because there are natural selection advantages for species that require fewer neural resources to learn a given set of behaviours, there is a tendency for the recommendation architecture form to appear in biological brains including human, mammal and avian brains. A system designed to perform a complex combination of behaviours will be much more effective if designed within this form.
Evolving Neural Networks for Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Downing Keith L.
Published: February 2025

This article takes a brief look at the history of Artificial Intelligence (AI), from good old-fashioned AI (GOFAI) to situated and embodied AI (SEAI) and its relationship to cognitive incrementalism, wherein sensorimotor mechanisms form the basis for high-level cognition. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) designed and tuned by evolutionary algorithms (EAs) are discussed in terms of their potential contributions to SEAI. Though state-of-the-art evolutionary ANN (EANN) research has not fulfilled this promise, our script-based EANN system (SEVANN) is briefly introduced as a software tool for quickly testing the SEAI utility of neurocomputational models of various spatial and temporal granularities.
Dynamical stability in random Boolean networks
Authors: Campioli Davide  , Villani Marco  , Poli Irene  , Serra Roberto
Published: February 2025

In this work we propose a new approach to the stability analysis of Random Boolean Networks (RBNs). In particular, we focus on two families of RBNs with k=2, in which only two subsets of canalizing Boolean function are allowed, and we show that the usual measure of RBNs stability – sometimes known as the Derrida parameter (DP) – is similar in the two cases, while their dynamics (e.g. number of attractors, length of cycles, number of frozen nodes) are different. For this reason we have introduced a new measure, that we have called attractor sensitivity (AS), computed in a way similar to DP, but perturbing only the attractors of the networks. It is proven that AS turns out to be different in the two cases analyzed. Finally, we investigate Boolean networks with k=3, tailored to solve the Density Classification Problem, and we show that also in this case the AS describes the system dynamical stability.
Quantum-Inspired Evolutionary Algorithm for Optimization Problems Approach
Authors: Fiasché Maurizio  , Morabito Francesco C.
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a novel type of quantum-inspired evolutionary algorithm (QiEA) for numerical optimization inspired by the multiple universes principle of quantum computing, which is based on the concept and principles of quantum computing, such as a quantum bit and superposition of states. Numerical optimization problems are an important field of research with several applications in several areas: industrial plant optimization, data mining and many others, and although being successfully used for solving several optimization problems, evolutionary algorithms still present issues that can reduce their performances when faced with task where the evaluation function is computationally intensive. In order to address those issues the QiEA represent the most recent advance in the field of evolutionary computation. This work present some application about combinatorial and numerical optimization problems.
Enhanced Multichannel Histogram Equalization for Speech Recognition in noisy acoustic conditions
Authors: Principi Emanuele  , Rotili Rudy  , Squartini Stefano
Published: February 2025

Feature statistics normalization in the cepstral domain is one of the most performing approaches for robust automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) in noisy acoustic scenarios. According to this approach, feature coefficients are normalized by using suitable linear or nonlinear transformations in order to match the noisy speech statistics to the clean speech one. Histogram Equalization (HEQ) is an effective algorithm belonging to this category. Recently some of the authors have proposed an interesting extension to the HEQ original algorithm, in order to suitably deal with the multichannel audio information coming from multi-microphone sensory activity in far-field acoustic scenarios. In this paper the feature normalization capabilities of the multichannel HEQ technique are further enhanced by introducing the kernel estimation technique and employing the multi-condition training for ASR system parametrization. Computer simulations based on the Aurora 2 database have shown that a significant recognition improvement with respect to the single-channel counterpart and other multi-channel techniques can be achieved confirming the effectiveness of the idea.
Attractor networks and memory replay of phase coded spike patterns
Authors: Giacco Ferdinando  , Scarpetta Silvia
Published: February 2025

We analyse the storage and retrieval capacity in a recurrent neural network of spiking integrate and fire neurons. In the model we distinguish between a learning mode, during which the synaptic connections change according to a Spike-Timing Dependent Plasticity (STDP) rule, and a recall mode, in which connections strengths are no more plastic. Our findings show the ability of the network to store and recall periodic phase coded patterns a small number of neurons has been stimulated. The self sustained dynamics selectively gives an oscillating spiking activity that matches one of the stored patterns, depending on the initialization of the network.
A distributed VLSI attractor network learning visual stimuli in real time and performing perceptual decisions
Authors: Giulioni Massimiliano  , Del Giudice Paolo
Published: February 2025

We demonstrate diverse aspects of attractor dynamics of recurrent spiking neural networks implemented in a multi-chip neuromorphic system. Reconfigurable synaptic connectivity within each chip and between chips (the latter is implemented by a previously developed PCI-AER board) allow to arrange different architectures for the 256 spiking neurons and 32k hebbian bistable plastic synapses, distributed on two chips. We report preliminary results on three scenarios: 1. attractor dynamics and robust working memory states, 2. real-time learning of attractor-based neural representations of simple visual stimuli acquired in real time through a neuromorphic sensor, 3. competitive behavior modeling stochastic decision making dynamics.
Use of probabilistic sets methodology to select the appropriate alternative of a t-commerce application set
Authors: Arroyo-Cañada Francisco-Javier  , Gil-Lafuente Jaime
Published: February 2025

This work shows empiric evidence about the use of probabilistic sets to rank a set of t-commerce applications, keeping in mind the perceived usefulness to determine the preferences of users. To measure these preferences has been developed a simulated market test with twelve t-commerce designs. Each design represents a combination of rational and emotional variables. The methodology allows rank the preferences of users, measured with an ordinal variable, keeping all information supplied by the sample. A coherent result has been obtained in spite of important uncertain degree in original data.
Determining Authority of Dutch Case Law
Authors: Winkels Radboud  , de Ruyter Jelle  , Kroese Henryk
Published: February 2025

In this paper we present the results of two studies to see whether the analysis of the network of citations between cases can be used as an indication of the relevance and authority in the Dutch legal system. Fowler e.a. have shown such results for the US common law system, but given the different status of case law in continental tradition it is not clear whether this will hold in the Netherlands. Moreover, we introduce a way to validate the results using selections made by human experts for legal education. We discuss the results and conclude that network analysis of cases is a useful tool for legal research.
On Rule Extraction from Regulations
Authors: Wyner Adam  , Peters Wim
Published: February 2025

Rules in regulations such as found in the US Federal Code of Regulations can be expressed using conditional and deontic rules. Identifying and extracting such rules from the language of the source material would be useful for automating rulebook management and translating into an executable logic. The paper presents a linguistically-oriented, rule-based approach, which is in contrast to a machine learning approach. It outlines use cases, discusses the source materials, reviews the methodology, then provides initial results and future steps.
Adapting Software Metrics to Analyze the Evolution of Laws – An Italian Case Study
Authors: Ciaghi Aaron  , Dalla Valle Andrea  , Villafiorita Adolfo
Published: February 2025

Law-makers, designers of legal information systems and citizens are often challenged by the complexity of bodies of law and the growing number of references needed to interpret a law. Quantifying this complexity is not an easy task. In this paper we present some analyses we conducted on the Italian body of laws, made available through the “Normattiva” website. Some of the metrics we applied are similar to those often used to measure the quality of software systems.
On modelling burdens and standards of proof in structured argumentation
Authors: Prakken Henry  , Sartor Giovanni
Published: February 2025

A formal model is proposed of argumentation with burdens and standards of proof, overcoming shortcomings of earlier work. The model is based on a distinction between default and inverted burdens of proof. This distinction is formalised by adapting the definition of defeat of the ASPIC+ framework for structured argumentation. Since ASPIC+ generates abstract argumentation frameworks, the model is thus given a Dungean semantics. It is shown to adequately capture shifting proof burdens as well as Carneades' definitions of proof standards.
Mereological View to Intensional Containment
Authors: Junkkari Marko
Published: February 2025

Modeling of information systems is typically based on conceptual (intensional) primitives abstracted from a Universe of Discourse. Among different relationships the hierarchical is-a and part-of relationships play a central role in modeling. Traditionally these are viewed as separated structures. However, there are approaches that aim to view them thorough one intensional containment relationship among concepts. In this paper, we seek a solution for this philosophically hard question. In other words, we aim to find one universal relationship at the intensional level that covers both the is-a and part-of relationships. The study is based on the integration of two established theory – Kauppi's concept theory that is an intensional theory and Mereology that is a theory of parts and wholes at the extensional level.
A Visual Model of the CRUD Matrix
Authors: Torim Ants
Published: February 2025

CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) matrix is a popular way for specifying the relation between software systems functionality and data classes. This article proposes a visual model that is based on Formal Concept Analysis for examining its hidden structure. We describe the relevance of this kind of model to software engineering in terms of the discovery of separate subsystems, use-case coverage and data table stability.
Modelling Dynamic Aspects of a Multi-Agent System Using Transparent Intensional Logic
Authors: Macek Jakub  , Frydrych Tomáš
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we focus on the communication and reasoning of agents in Multi-Agent Systems. We propose a method of modelling dynamic behaviour of these systems using Transparent Intensional Logic. We also describe several issues where the formalization affects the implementation of both the system and the agents, and propose solutions to the problems that may arise. In order to make the paper easily readably, we illustrate our approach by a simple example.
Permutations and Bijections
Authors: Vohandu Leo  , Peder Ahti  , Tombak Mati
Published: February 2025

Two problems, connected with analysing empirical data are considered. First is a problem of minimizing the number of crossings in a bipartite graph. Second is a pattern matching problem for permutations. In both cases the original problem is transformed into a similar problem for an appropriate mathematical structure, which can be considered as an useful data structure for solving the problem.
Virtual Help for Real Surgery: The Case of Awake Surgery
Authors: Albani Giovanni  , Cipresso Pietro  , Gaggioli Andrea  , Serino Silvia  , Vigna Cinzia  , Priano Lorenzo  , Mauro Alessandro  , Franzini Angelo  , Riva Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

Awake surgery can be highly stressful for patients. In fact, being awake, patients could perceive that the environmental demands are taxing or exceed their adaptive abilities. We proposed the use of Virtual Reality as a functional and effective tool for a new class of clinical applications aimed at helping patients to cope with these specific stressful situations. Using coping skills that have been learnt during the virtual experience, patients can reduce their psychological stress and improve their collaboration and - in general - the outcome of the intervention.
Training System for NOTES and SPS Surgery Robot That Enables Spatiotemporal Retrospective Analysis of the Training Process
Authors: Hattori Asaki  , Suzuki Naoki  , Ieiri Satoshi  , Tomikawa Morimasa  , Kenmotsu Hajime  , Hashizume Makoro
Published: February 2025

Within the digestive organ surgery robot R&D project, our research team aims to develop a surgical robot training device with an interface identical to that of the actual device. The training device uses an organ model that changes shape in real time to train operators to grab, cut open, and cut off soft tissues and close wounds using the actual device. To increase the effectiveness of the training device, we added functions to save the movements of the robot in training and changes in the operation field. By recreating the situation during training, we were able to analyze in four dimensions (4D) various changes in the operation field that the operator cannot see during training. This new function not only enabled us to analyze the contents of the training in detail, but also to report any problems in development and design of the actual device.
A Prototype Stimulator System for Noninvasive Low Intensity Focused Ultrasound Delivery
Authors: Mulgaonkar Amit P.  , Singh Rahul S.  , Babakhanian Meghedi  , Culjat Martin O.  , Grundfest Warren S.  , Gorgulho Alessandra  , Lacan Goran  , De Salles Antonio A.F.  , Bystritsky Alexander  , Melega William P.
Published: February 2025

A prototype Low Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) stimulator system was developed to evaluate non-invasive neuromodulation in a large animal model. We conducted a feasibility study on a Göttingen minipig, demonstrating reversible, targeted transcranial neuromodulation. The hypothalamus of the minipig was repeatedly stimulated with LIFU which evoked temporally correlated increases in both heart rate and blood pressure.
Automated Real Time Peg and Tool Detection for the FLS Trainer Box
Authors: Nemani Arun  , Sankaranarayanan Ganesh
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a method that effectively tracks trocar tool and peg positions in real time to allow real time assessment of the peg transfer task of the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS). By utilizing custom code along with OpenCV libraries, tool and peg positions can be accurately tracked without altering the original setup conditions of the FLS trainer box. This is achieved via a series of image filtration sequences, thresholding functions, and Haar training methods.
Performance Comparison of Laryngoscopy and Suction Techniques in a Hemorrhagic Airway Manikin Simulator: Direct Laryngoscopy with Yankauer vs. Storz CMAC with Attached Suction Tip
Authors: Nicholas IV Thomas A.  , Pang Huiling  , Bernhagen Mary A.  , Boedeker Ben H.
Published: February 2025

Airway management of the hemorrhagic airway can be a difficult skill to master as trainee exposure to this difficult airway may be limited. In this study, we employed a hemorrhagic airway simulator along with a videolaryngoscope and the Storz Boedker-Doerges (BD) suction blade. These devices provided improved intubation performance in this model with respect to traditional direct laryngoscope (DL) and VL blades. This study shows that use of a hemorrhagic simulator could be an effective and valuable training tool in difficult airway intubation training.
An Experimental Study on CHVE's Performance Evaluation
Authors: Paiva Paulo V.F.  , Machado Liliane S.  , Oliveira Jauvane C.
Published: February 2025

Virtual reality-based training simulators, with collaborative capabilities, are known to improve the way users interact with one another while learning or improving skills on a given medical procedure. Performance evaluation of Collaborative Haptic Virtual Environments (CHVE) allows us to understand how such systems can work in the Internet, as well as the requirements for multisensorial and real-time data. This work discloses new performance evaluation results for the collaborative module of the CyberMed VR framework.
An Online Practice and Educational Networking System for Technical Skills: Learning Experience in Expert Facilitated vs. Independent Learning Communities
Authors: Rojas David  , Cheung Jeffrey J.H.  , Weber Bryce  , Kapralos Bill  , Carnahan Heather  , Bägli Darius J.  , Dubrowski Adam
Published: February 2025

This study explored the activities of trainees learning technical skills using an educational networking tool with and without expert facilitation. Medical students (participants) were video-recorded practicing suturing and knot tying techniques and the resulting videos were uploaded to an educational networking site. Participants were then divided into two groups (one group containing an expert facilitator while the other group did not) and encouraged to comment on the videos within their group. We monitored the number of logins and comments posted and all participants completed an exit survey. There were no differences between the activities the two groups (p = 0.387). We conclude that the presence of an expert within collaborative Internet environments in not necessary to promote interactivity amongst the learners.
Assessing Surgeon and Novice Force Skill on a Haptic Stiffness Simulator for Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Singapogu Ravikiran B.  , Smith Dane E.  , Altenhoff Bliss M.  , Long Lindsay O.  , Prabhu Varun V.  , Pagano Christopher C.  , Burg Timothy C.  , Burg Karen J.K.L.
Published: February 2025

Though several simulators and training methods are available for basic laparoscopic skills, few have addressed force-based skills. In this work, we discuss a haptic simulator that renders virtual materials of different stiffness profiles to be used for haptic skills differentiation. A force-based task was designed on the simulator and the performance of surgeons and novices was analyzed. Results indicate that surgeons and novices differ in their ability to use the haptic device to reproduce target stiffness levels. This work provides an important step towards quantifying haptic skill metrics for the design of surgical skills training simulators.
Haptic Feedback in OP:Sense – Augmented Reality in Telemanipulated Robotic Surgery
Authors: Beyl T.  , Nicolai P.  , Mönnich H.  , Raczkowksy J.  , Wörn H.
Published: February 2025

In current research, haptic feedback in robot assisted interventions plays an important role. However most approaches to haptic feedback only regard the mapping of the current forces at the surgical instrument to the haptic input devices, whereas surgeons demand a combination of medical imaging and telemanipulated robotic setups. In this paper we describe how this feature is integrated in our robotic research platform OP:Sense. The proposed method allows the automatic transfer of segmented imaging data to the haptic renderer and therefore allows enriching the haptic feedback with virtual fixtures based on imaging data. Anatomical structures are extracted from pre-operative generated medical images or virtual walls are defined by the surgeon inside the imaging data. Combining real forces with virtual fixtures can guide the surgeon to the regions of interest as well as helps to prevent the risk of damage to critical structures inside the patient. We believe that the combination of medical imaging and telemanipulation is a crucial step for the next generation of MIRS-systems.
User Preference Comparing a Conventional Videolaryngoscope Blade vs. a Novel Suction Videolaryngoscope Blade in Simulated Hemorrhagic Airway Intubation
Authors: Boedeker Ben H.  , Bernhagen Mary  , Miller David J.  , Murray W. Bosseau
Published: February 2025

The hemorrhagic airway makes visualization during laryngoscopy and intubation difficult. A specially designed videolaryngoscope blade with integrated suction was developed and studied in a simulated hemorrhagic airway at the Omaha VA Medical Center. Results show that, if available, many users would choose to include this new suction device in their standard airway carts due to its “always there” design.
Use of a Cardiac Algorithm in a Preoperative Evaluation Clinic-A Pilot Study
Authors: Boedeker Ben H.  , Barak-Bernhagen Mary A.  , Miljkovic Nikola  , Nicholas IV Thomas A.  , White Ronald L.  , Sweitzer Bobbie
Published: February 2025

The preoperative evaluation is vital in providing information to reduce the risks associated with the anesthesia and surgery and improve the quality of care. In the VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, we introduced a computer-based cardiac algorithm as part of the preoperative evaluation software. Following the pre-op examination and use of the algorithm, the provider completed a survey regarding their perceived usefulness of the algorithm software. The survey results showed that effective preoperative evaluation can be performed using a preoperative evaluation clinic, users are receptive to the computer-based format and, in most cases, prefer to have the algorithm software available for use in preoperative assessment.
Molecular pathology and biomarkers of bladder cancer
Authors: Czerniak Bogdan
Published: February 2025

Bladder cancer originates in the epithelial lining of the bladder's mucosa and develops in association with several habitual, industrial, and environmental risk factors via papillary and non-papillary pathways. In this chapter we review novel concepts concerning the molecular mechanisms of early field change in bladder neoplasia stemming from whole-organ genomic mapping studies. These mechanisms are discussed in the context of molecular pathogenesis of bladder cancer and in relation to treatment and biomarker-based detection strategies.
Molecular and genetic basis of childhood cancer
Authors: Rushton Jennifer  , López-Terrada Dolores
Published: February 2025

Pediatric malignancies are a spectrum of biologically diverse cancers different from those seen in adults. Malignant solid tumors diagnosed in children are often, and at least partly the result of developmental pathways dysregulation, and may recapitulate stages of organogenesis. Significant insight into their pathogenesis came from studying normal embryonal and fetal organ development, as well as mechanisms responsible for developmental disorders and congenital syndromes associated with these tumors.
Blended-Learning Strategy in the Altay State Medical University
Authors: Trukhacheva Nina  , Pupyrev Nicola
Published: February 2025

New educational technologies prove to be capable of solving many problems in the medical training. Students do not see e-Learning as replacing traditional instructor-led training but as a complement to it, forming part of a blended-learning strategy. Innovations in e-Learning technologies point toward a revolution in education, allowing learning to be individualized (adaptive learning), enhancing learners' interactions with others (collaborative learning), and transforming the role of the teacher. The integration of e-Learning into medical education can catalyze the shift towards applying adult learning theory, where educators will no longer serve mainly as the distributors of content, but will become more involved as facilitators of learning and assessors of competency. This survey analyzes possibilities to effectively use e-Learning in medical education, and what steps are to be made in that direction.
Information System for the Implementation of Individual Rehabilitation Programs for Persons with Disabilities in Nizhny Novgorod Region
Authors: Besstrashnova Yanina K.  , Shoshmin Alexander V.  , Nosov Valeriy A.
Published: February 2025

In December 2011, the first phase of the project aimed at developing an information system for the implementation of individual rehabilitation programs for persons with disabilities was finished in Nizhny Novgorod region of Russia. It included the installation of 40 workstations in the Ministry for Social Policy and 8 institutions of Nizhny Novgorod region. Accumulated data were moved to a new information system based on a distributed database. In 2012, the rest of the regional rehabilitation institutions are to join this information system. A transition to a centralized database is planned.
eLab: Bringing Together People, Data and Methods to Enhance Knowledge Discovery in Healthcare Settings
Authors: Ainsworth John  , Cunningham James  , Buchan Iain
Published: February 2025

The discovery of knowledge from raw data is a multistage process, that typical requires collaboration between experts from disparate disciplines, and the application of a range of methods tailored to the research question. The aim of the eLab is to provide a web-based environment for health professionals and researchers to access health datasets, share knowledge and expertise and to apply methods for analysis and visualization of the results. The eLab is built around the core concept of the Research Object as the mechanism for preserving, reusing and disseminating the knowledge discovery process. The possible range of applications of the eLab is vast, and so the consideration of the trade off between specificity and generality is an important one, that is reflected in the requirements. The architecture and implementation of the eLab is described, and we report on the deployment of eLabs for applications in primary care, long-term conditions management, bariatric surgery and public health.