bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observational Methods in Shoring Design – A Case Study
Authors: Akcakal Onder
Published: February 2025

For the construction of the basement floors within a residential development project in Asian side of Istanbul, an excavation which has a depth varying between 16 m and 32 m is required. Varity of the rock quality and existence of the intrusions dictated different systems to be implemented in shoring. Prior to the shoring works center part of the plot was excavated by excavation contractors and initial displacements have been occurred. Beside this initial displacement, large scale displacements are also encountered on the southern part of the plot during the shoring works due to the neighboring water utility and water intrusion. For remediation studies effective shear strength parameters are determined with both laboratory tests which performed on the samples collected from clay interbeds and back calculation of the potential slip surfaces. The effects of the different rock formations, clay interbeds and saturation levels are discussed within this paper.
Assessing the Influence on Buildings Due to Jet-Grouting Underpinning
Authors: Chepurnova Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

This paper is focused on ground movements due to underpinning-induced masonry buildings in the centre of Moscow. Jet-grouting technique considers distortions that may occur as a result of an inaccurate processing sequence. The purpose of the paper is to determine and demonstrate the minimum value of this displacement in relation with total measure, obtained on the two similar recent construction sites.
Non-Newtonian Fluid Parameters Calibration for Numerical Modelling of Landslides
Authors: Andronic Adrian
Published: February 2025

Common geotechnical engineering practice deals with landslide modelling during the triggering and in some cases immediate post-failure phases. This is generally carried out using either Limit Equilibrium Method or Lagrangian formulation for Finite Element Method. The paper describes a method for assessing both the aforementioned phases and propagation of landslides, modelling the sliding mass by the methods of Eulerian formulation specific to Computational Fluid Dynamics. The equation of state parameters governing the fluid-soil equivalence, as well as the ones describing the velocity-shear strain behaviour are found both by numerical matching (the former) and a newly developed laboratory testing method (the latter). Similarities and differences with respect to the classical approach are pointed out as conclusions.
Influence of Geometrical Imperfections of Rigid Soil Reinforcement Columns
Authors: Bohn Cécilia
Published: February 2025

This theoretical study focuses on the influence of geometrical imperfections of rigid soil reinforcement columns. Discrepancies compared to projected values are investigated for different parameters like the column position, the column diameter or the column length. The effects of an unintentional curvature, inclination, and load eccentricity are examined. The consequences of the different geometrical imperfection types are classified in terms of loss of structural capacity (brittle failure), loss of bearing capacity (extreme column displacements), or loss of stability (buckling), establishing the most decisive imperfection types. Threshold levels leading to particular sensitivity of the system will be defined, in order to increase the quality of such systems by a more careful execution of the determining parameters.
Developing the “Birdie” Game for Stroke Patients’ Rehabilitation
Authors: Szücs Veronika  , Antal Peter  , Dömök Tamas  , Laszlo Erika  , Lanyi Cecilia Sik
Published: February 2025

This study introduces a rehabilitation game, which is part of a special set of games planned and developed within the “StrokeBack” project. These games aim to support the rehabilitation process of stroke patients who have upper limb impairments and damaged psychomotor abilities. In this paper the user interface and relevance feedback of the “Birdie” game is presented.
ABC System: A New Communicator Concept for People with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: López-Vicente A.  , Laparra-Hernández J.  , Lloria M.  , Poveda-Puente R.  , Ferreras A.  , Navarro J.  , Belda-Lois J.M.  , Barberà-Guillem R.  , Peris P.
Published: February 2025

ABC introduces the development of a new concept of communicator that holistically manages interaction of user with the environment. This project has enhanced user involvement (people with dyskinetic cerebral palsy) from early stages of the design process. The inclusion of users has allowed to identify new features not covered so far in augmentative and alternative communication systems. The possibilities offered by the communicator are access to Internet resources, leisure management, learning, emotion management, and environmental control. These demands should have not been identified without the direct inclusion of users in the design.
Design of Input/Output Mapping for a Head-Mounted Interface According to Motor Signs Caused by Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Raya R.  , Velasco M.A.  , Rocon E.  , Ceres R.
Published: February 2025

Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most severe disabilities in childhood and it is a disorder of posture and movement due to a defect or lesion in the immature brain. People with CP are unable to control standard human-computer interfaces (e.g. mouse). Therefore, they need advanced devices, which reduce their limitations and empower their capabilities. This paper presents a wearable head-mounted interface based on inertial technology. Firstly, we present a study of relevant head motor signs for 14 users with CP. Secondly; we discuss the different methods of mapping between the human activity (input) and the command transmitted to the computer (output). According to the results, negative signs (insufficient muscle activity, as weakness or hypotonia) are more significant contributors to disability than positive signs (increased frequency of movements, as tremor, chorea or tics). This fact suggests that control modes based on velocity or acceleration might be more useful that control modes based on head posture. Nevertheless, since positive and negative motor signs are often simultaneously present, the interface should include different control modes in order to be usable for different types of users with CP.
Using Impact Measurement to Establish Confidence in Emergent Assistive Technology Services - First Phase Translation of the PIADS Outcome Measurement Tool for Implementation in an Arabic Context
Authors: Zahid Aejaz  , Boyle Bryan
Published: February 2025

For a fledgling Assistive Technology service seeking to establish multistakeholder credibility during its early development, the use of a valid, internationally recognized and easy to implement Outcome Measurement tool can be a valuable instrument to gauge the impact of intervention.
Design for All and Ambient Assisted Living: The Role of Networking
Authors: Bühler Christian  , Emiliani Pier Luigi
Published: February 2025

The paper aims to show the possible impact of design for all (DfA) in the development of future ambient intelligent (AMI) environments and the possible role of networked stakeholders. It takes notice of the general technological development and the needs of users in the future. Ambient assisted living is used as an example of current AMI focus and connects the ideas with design for all. It identifies collective intelligence as one of the future key concepts leading to the need for intensified networking. Finally, it starts the discussion on the development of networking based on the European Design for All eAccessibility Network (EDeAN).
Remembering the Old Days – Designing Tangible Tabletop Games for the Elderly
Authors: Chen Weiqin
Published: February 2025

The literature has shown that normal ageing is associated with a decline in sensory, perceptual, motor and cognitive abilities. This decline contributes to isolation and depression. We argue that tangible tabletop games have potential for enhancing the life quality of the elderly. This potential has not been fully explored. This paper aims to explore this potential by designing tangible tabletop games to help the elderly to remember and talk about the past.
The Role of IT Technology in Ambient Assisted Living and the Assiduous Involvement of EDeAN Network in AAL
Authors: Mitrea Paulina  , Homorodean Daniel  , Moldovan Corina
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we focus on putting into evidence the role of the computers, computer networks, mobile devices and sensor networks in order to interfacing the ambient with the humans in a very efficient way, even enlarging the ambient feeling towards the perception of cultural values connected with a certain geographic area, layered in the historical time. The role and the importance of EDeAN network in AAL will also be pointed out.
Innovative ICT Solutions Supporting Students with Learning Disability and Hearing Impairments during Classes
Authors: Sbattella Licia  , Tedesco Roberto
Published: February 2025

University students with Learning Disability or Hearing Impairments often face huge difficulties in accessing campus facilities and, specifically, lectures. This paper presents the innovative ICT solutions provided by CATS, a research project aiming to enhance the accessibility of academic opportunities such as lectures. Namely, a note-taking environment (PoliNotes), an advanced spelling corrector/predictor (PoliSpell), an automatic summarization tool (KEaKI), and a device able to facilitate lip-reading (PoliLips) are described.
User Satisfaction with the Service Delivery Process of Assistive Devices – an Outcome Dimension or a Quality Indicator?
Authors: Sund Terje  , Iwarsson Susanne  , Brandt Åse
Published: February 2025

Previous research has suggested that user satisfaction is a separate construct from e.g. mobility-related participation or quality of life, and should be evaluated in studies of outcomes of mobility devices. However, recent research on powered scooter service delivery process in two different nation contexts have questioned whether user satisfaction with the service delivery process is in fact an outcome dimension, or rather a quality indicator. The purpose of this paper is to discuss this issue.
The Impact of Powered Wheelchairs on Activity, Participation and Health Related Quality of Life in Older People
Authors: Hermansson Liselotte N  , Hagberg Lars  , Fredriksson Carin  , Pettersson Ingvor
Published: February 2025

The aim was to study the effect from using a powered wheelchair on old peoples' activity, participation and health related quality of life. Data was collected prior to prescription of a powered wheelchair and after four months use. Sample comprised 35 individuals >65 years of age referred to the Centre for Assistive Technology, Örebro county council, for prescription of a powered wheelchair. A statistically significant improvement with a large effect on IPPA; medium sized improvements on WHODAS 2.0; and small to medium sized improvements in SF-36; were shown. The sample was skewed (males n=28) and changes on WHODAS 2.0 and SF-36 could only be verified for men. In conclusion, a powered wheelchair has a great value for aged people. Further studies are warranted to explore the distribution of sex on powered wheelchair users.
The Natural History and Measurement of Power Mobility Outcomes among New and Experienced Older Adult Power Wheelchair Users: A One-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Rushton Paula W  , Demers Louise
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study was to present the characteristics of and compare new and experienced power wheelchair users over a 1 year period. Sixty-seven older adult power wheelchair users completed outcome measures assessing participation, life space travelled, wheelchair skills, wheelchair confidence, social support, anxiety and depression. Preliminary results of this study indicate that while new power wheelchair users experience trends towards change in many of these areas over time, experienced power wheelchair users do not. Improved wheelchair skills, decreased anxiety, and increased depression were the areas in which trends towards change were observed for new power wheelchair users.
Older Adults and the Use of Internet Communication: Results from a German Study-Sample
Authors: Steinert Anika  , Haesner Marten  , Gövercin Mehmet  , Steinhagen-Thiessen Elisabeth
Published: February 2025

Background: Although much is known about communication patterns of young people, communication habits of older people still seem to be to be a neglected area of research. This seems surprising considering the great importance of information exchange, especially for this age group. Communication enables older people to participate in social life and thus can prevent loneliness and isolation.
Environmental Barriers and Use of Mobility Devices
Authors: Kylberg Marianne  , Löfqvist Charlotte  , Hortsmann Vibeke  , Iwarsson Susanne
Published: February 2025

Aim: To describe outdoor barriers in the nearby home environments of very old people, and to investigate whether the presence of these environmental barriers differed between users and non-users of mobility devices (MDs). Method: Baseline data on 397 Swedish people aged 80-89 years, collected with a study-specific question on MD use and a subset of the environmental component of the Housing Enabler instrument, assessing the outdoor environment nearby home, were used. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: The most frequent outdoor environmental barriers nearby home concerned walking surfaces, level differences, manoeuvring spaces, seating and shelters. There were however no differences in the number of outdoor environmental barriers nearby home between users and non-users of MDs. The largest difference in presence for specific barriers in the nearby outdoor environment between users and non-users of MDs were for example complicated or illogical routes to/from the entrance, steep gradients, and letterboxes possible to reach only via steps or other differences in level. Conclusion: Even if the number of environmental barriers does not differ, there are differences between users and non-users of MDs regarding specific barriers. This implies that it is not the number of environmental barriers present that matters, but rather specific barriers that impact on MD use among very old people. For that reason, it is important to consider detailed information on environmental barriers as well as personal functioning to support performance of outdoor activities in everyday life for the ageing population.
The Value of a Powered Wheelchair – Spouses' Perspective
Authors: Fredriksson Carin  , Hermansson Liselotte N  , Hagberg Lars  , Pettersson Ingvor
Published: February 2025

Research concerning the significance of assistive technology to spouses of persons who uses technology is sparse and the impact of a powered wheelchair on spouses' activity and participation is not at all researched. Thus, the aim was to explore how spouses experience the significance of a powered wheelchair prescribed to and used by their next of kin.
Multidisciplinar Team on Assistive Technology for University Students
Authors: Fanucci L.  , Turturici M.  , Iacopetti F.  , Giannelli N.  , Gorrasi F.  , Mancarella P.  , Bacci C.  , Borroni I.  , Laddaga C.
Published: February 2025

University is in general a challenging phase for a student. During University students usually must face with new study methods, subjects, tools and technologies, and supporting them requires specific and advanced skills. But for students with disabilities there is also a number of additional problems that can make University even more difficult. In Italy, thanks to the Law 17/1999, each University is organized with a center supporting student with disabilities, providing logistic support, tutoring and technical aids. Unfortunately, this center is typically not organized to help the student identifying the most appropriate technical aids in order to face University Studies. To this aim a multidisciplinary team would be required involving not only experts from the University but also experts on assistive technology from the technical, social and sanitary point of view. The proposed project was exactly conceived in order to create such a multidisciplinary collaborative framework for the students of Pisa University. The three main actors are the Unit of Services for the Integration of students with Disabilities (USID) of the University of Pisa, the Laboratory for Aids, Communication, Learning and Autonomy (LAPCA) of Azienda USL 5 Pisa and the Department of Information Engineering (DII) of the University of Pisa, structures with complementary competencies respectively in the logistical support to disabled students, in the healthcare and in electronic engineering and computer science. Thanks to this project a multidisciplinary team has been established, with the aim of taking care of the needs of technical aids for student of Pisa University. Several students have been enrolled in this project not only identifying the most appropriate technical aid for the given student needs but also customizing and developing new technologies when required. A couple of case examples will be presented.
The Use and Usability of Accessibility Standardization
Authors: Whitney Gill
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses recent research carried out with British Standardizers working in the area of systems and products with user interfaces to identify when and where they considered the needs of older people and people with disabilities. The research was carried out in support of the ISO JTAG TAG activity on the revision of ISO/IEC Guide 71 and was designed to assist the writers of the re-written guide to enable them to target the Guide effectively. The document ISO/IEC Guide 71:2001, Guidelines for standards developers is designed to address the needs of older persons and persons with disabilities and to ensure that standards which affect the design of user interfaces do not discriminate in their design. It is currently being updated. The work was carried out by a series of online and face to face interviews during Winter 2012/2013. The results indicated that a majority of the standardizers did not routinely consider the needs of older and disabled people. In conclusion it is important for those in the accessibility field to identify effective promotion methods as well as work to create useful, useable, quality standards.
Language and Communication in the Dementias: Implications for User Interface Design
Authors: Greasley Philippa  , Cudd Peter
Published: February 2025

The design of user interfaces for people with dementia does not appear from the literature to take into account the concomitant language and communication deficits when choosing the language used in the interfaces. A systematic approach was used to search databases for studies relating to language and communication in the four most common forms of dementia (Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, fronto-temporal dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies). Studies identified were used as a basis for the commentary in this paper. Communication deficits are common in dementia. From the earliest stages of the disease, the person with dementia's capacity for communication declines as difficulties emerge with all aspects of language and functional communication. These deficits have implications for the successful interaction with assistive digital technology designed to improve the quality of life of people with dementia. More consideration should be given at the design stages to the potential impact of communication difficulties on interaction with technology.
The Impact of Presentation by Voice Media on Reading Speed when Visually Impaired Persons Read Complex Text Including High-level Content
Authors: Minatani Kazunori
Published: February 2025

The task of this paper is to clarify the impact of text presentation media on reading time of complex text that includes high-level content by visually impaired persons. Doubts remain as to whether the ability of visually impaired persons to hear and understand voice content more quickly would function when reading such text. Reading speed decreased in the order of presentation by voice media and braille booklets, revealing a significant difference between the two. On the other hand, it is difficult to imagine that the reading speed of complex text that includes high-level content using voice media can be approximated to the information processing speed of persons without impairment.
Shopping Support System using AR Technology for Visually Impaired Persons
Authors: Yoshida Kyoko  , Takahashi Ikuo  , Honda Satoshi
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study is to create a shopping support system for visually impaired persons. To support shopping, a technology for users to navigate inside a store and assist them in looking for and identifying individual products is necessary. Using AR(Augmented Reality) technology, the authors were able to show that visually impaired persons could successfully select products with minimal difficulty in a short amount of time. Therefore, we propose our shopping support system with AR technology for visually impaired persons.
Text-to-Speech Reading Assistant Device with Scene Text Locator for the Blind
Authors: Goto Hideaki
Published: February 2025

One of the most anticipated devices for the blind is probably a wearable camera capable of translating the captured scene text into an alternative representation such as speech. However, finding signboards and capturing the text images in a form suitable for character recognition is difficult for the blind. We propose a framework of reading assistant device with a scene text locator that shows the text location by sound signals. By using a pair of base/offset notes, the accuracy of text localization has become much higher compared with our previous system.
Comparing Robots with Robot Agents as Information-Support Systems for the Elderly and Those with Mild Dementia
Authors: Nihei Misato  , Okada Tetsuaki  , Narita Takuya  , Mamiya Ikuko  , Kamata Minoru  , Ohnaka Shinichi  , Inoue Takenobu
Published: February 2025

Background: The use of robots for providing support to persons with dementia is very promising. In this paper, we propose an information-support robot for persons with memory and cognitive impairments, using field-based methodology. To date, it is not been made clear why a physical robot is more effective than an on-screen agent in presenting information, or what effect this has on the recipient. Objective: The purpose of this study is to clarify the effect of the form and type of the two devices used in communication. To do this, comparative experiments using a physical robot and a robot agent were conducted with healthy elderly people and person with mild dementia. Method: A communication robot/agent system produced by NEC Corporation, called “PaPeRo®,” was chosen as the platform for this system. The comparative experiment design was a between-group design (robot vs. agent; elderly vs. dementia). Sixteen information tasks were set during an interference task in each case. Result: The results of experiments conducted with 13 elderly people and 5 person with dementia showed that the average rates of information acquisition of a Robot/Agent with mentally healthy elderly people were 65.5%/66.2%, and 62.5%/55.8% for the person with mild dementia. The participants demonstrated awareness, attention, understanding, replies, and actions to the Robot/Agent 43.3%/47.1% of the time for the healthy elderly people, and 45.0%/41.3% of the time for person with dementia. Conclusions: These results suggest that a physical robot is more suitable and more effective than a robot agent for a person who is suffering a decrease in cognitive and attention functions.
Supporting Autonomy in the Aging Population by using an Accessible Information System on Comfort Products and Assistive Technology
Authors: Heijkers Jeanne  , Rietsema Jan  , de Witte Luc  , Hagedoren Edith  , Van Leeuwen Rene
Published: February 2025

Objective: The purpose of the developed information system on comfort products and assistive technology called SJOBOKS, is that the system easily can be used by end users. Main Content: A growing percentage of the population belong to the elderly people. Because of the phenomenon of aging these elderly experience limitations in functioning. Ingenious solutions, handy and comfortable products and simple assistive technologies are available to support the independent functioning of these people. The gap between the need and the knowledge requires more information and advice about the existing products. In various European countries databases on assistive technologies are available. Mostly these databases are accessibly by the internet. However, this information is often not easily accessible for people who are not familiar with using a computer or the internet. There is a need for an information system that is easily accessible and inspires users to buy products that give them greater independency and autonomy. Therefore SJOBOKS was developed, which is an easy accessible interface containing information on comfort and handy products and simple assistive technologies. It can be operated by a touch screen or by a computer mouse. It contains 300 product descriptions and 80 short films. Method: Data was gathered by using questionnaires and observing people using SJOBOKS. Participants were independent living elderly of 75 y/o and over, people with physical and visual impairments and people with low Social economic status and professionals in the field of assistive technology. Results: According to the majority of the participants the SJOBOKS did provide in the need for information. The information was found interesting and attractive and the interface easy to use. Half of the participants needed encouragement to use the system. SJOBOKS could assist in living independent for a longer period, according to half of the participants. Suggestions for improvement were about the content, to add information such as availability of the products and more detailed information. Most participants found it obvious to have the SJOBOKS free of charge on the market. Conclusion: According to the participants, SJOBOKS gives relevant information on handy, comfort and simple assistive technologies, provided that encouragement in usage is given.
Methodology for Rehab Technology Education of Heterogeneous Student Groups
Authors: Bühler Christian
Published: February 2025

In the education of specialists in rehab, health, nursing etcetera, e.g. in further education or Masters courses, often students with very different backgrounds from humanities to technologies come together. It becomes very difficult to create a common understanding of the relevance, options and issues of various technological support interventions. The paper presents an approach to consider the diversity of backgrounds as resource. With the concept of personas an individualized level of reflection is introduced in order to make positive use of the different backgrounds of the attendees. The exchange within the study group supports a good overview of different perspectives for all students. The course takes up the concepts of personas, case concepts and ICF as methodological baseline, applies a combination of presence teaching and e-learning and makes use of the heterogeneous backgrounds and interests of the students. The presented methodology has been developed and implemented in the framework of a joint Masters module of two different Masters, one on the ageing society and one on rehabilitation science.
Audiopulse: Democratizing the Newborn Hearing Screening in Brazil
Authors: Barbalho Talis L.  , Barros Natan M.  , Araújo Fabiana  , Gonçalves Maria J.  , Silva Ikaro  , Paik Kenneth  , Celi Leo A.  , Guerreiro Ana M.G.
Published: February 2025

It is estimated that globally 588 million people have a hearing loss. It is estimated that 5.7 million of Brazilians have some degree of hearing loss. The situation for children is worse, 6% have hearing loss by age 4, and 6 in 1000 have hearing loss from birth. In Brazil, there is a federal law (number 2794/01) that obligates every baby to have the hearing test done during the first week of birth. Although a federal law exists, not all government hospitals and clinics provide the hearing test, due the high cost of equipment's, and the poor populations cannot afford the test. A child who suffers from hearing loss faces many challenges throughout life, including: delayed speech and language development, learning disabilities, social problems and stigmas. Later in life, they struggle with staying in school and unemployment due to their disabilities. Even though the World Health Organization recommends universal neonatal screening, many babies miss their chance to be screened due to unavailability, high costs, or long wait times. Current systems are so inflexible and expensive that can't easily be scaled to rural clinics. The specific aim of this work is to create a battery of hearing screening tests that can be performed efficiently through a cell phone. The software uses Sana technology and data is securely transmitted wirelessly to a centralized medical database for validation by a trained audiologist and storage in a medical record database. Also a new screening based on fractal analysis and intelligent systems of the recorded ear sound will also be developed and investigated. If successful, this new diagnostic tool will be merged into the mobile hearing screening software, simplifying the objective screening by decreasing the requirements in calibration and computer resources. Sana AudioPulse has developed a mobile telemedicine platform, using cellphones interfacing with specialized hardware to screen hearing impairment in newborns with a suite of hearing screening tests. This mobile technology allows widespread deployment of hearing screenings across abroad span of rural and urban communities. Sana AudioPulse provides a scalable, low-cost solution.
Interactive Didactics: “Auxilium!” Simulation Game
Authors: Gorrone Luca  , Mugnai Laura
Published: February 2025

Civil Protection didactic tools and training activities are of basic importance to spread knowledge and foster the resilience of communities. By promoting the culture of peace and solidarity, one can lay the foundations of communal life that will allow people to face individual and social challenges. The University of Florence has proposed to reappraise didactic peace games as a modern way to train Civil Protection Operators by creating a prototype peace-based electronic game entitled “Auxilium!” which was designed as the conclusion of the First Level “Coordination of Civil Protection Activities” Master's Course and developed by Giunti Press. “Auxilium!” is a dynamic peace game where participants compare their capabilities to manage human resources while facing disasters by cooperating, thus reversing the traditional parameters of adult and youth games. “Auxilium!” represents a powerful and effective tool to spread the knowledge of Civil Protection and of the culture of peace by highlighting the role of dialogue and teaching how to cooperate and share goals in order to overcome problems.
Emergency Management of Kosovo
Authors: Gashi Mustaf
Published: February 2025

Mr. Mustaf Gashi started with the introduction of Kosovo Crisis Management and its national views on Disaster Profiles such as: floods, earthquakes, fires, heavy snow. His presentation continued with the national policy, national legislature and the future plans. On the end of the presentation he focused on the regional cooperation and finished with the lessons learned.
Search and Rescue Battalion
Authors: Domi Luan
Published: February 2025

LTC Luan DOMI presented the capabilities of the Rescue and Research battalion of Albania. He was speaking of the basis of functioning, the activities, the joint cooperation and the future regional activities.
Terrorist Threats to Energy Critical Infrastructure Technology and Protection Systems
Authors: Çelikpala Mitat
Published: February 2025

Critical infrastructure is an umbrella term referring to a country's assets that are essential to the nation's security, public health and safety, economic vitality, and way of life. This infrastructure is owned or operated by both the public and the private sector. All agencies responsible for protecting the critical infrastructure act to mitigate the risks through implementing risk management techniques. Even the best security management plans and legislation, which compel their enforcement, are worthless without proper implementation. In this implementation, stage continuous analysis should be made. This effort necessitates investment in horizon scanning, early warning, risk analysis, intelligence gathering and dissemination. With the help of these phases, crises prevention, crisis management, post-crisis stabilization and consequence management could be conducted. All affected parties should also kept ready through training and education, research and development programs and prepared to reply any kind of terrorist threat on the critical energy infrastructure.
Using Clouds for Technical Computing
Authors: Fox Geoffrey  , Gannon Dennis
Published: February 2025

We discuss the use of cloud computing in technical (scientific) applications and identify characteristics such as loosely-coupled and data-intensive that lead to good performance. We give both general principles and several examples with an emphasis on use of the Azure cloud.
Eddy-Current Interaction Between a Probe Coil and a Conducting Plate with a Cylindrical Borehole
Authors: Skarlatos Anastassios  , Theodoulidis Theodoros
Published: February 2025

The solution to the eddy-current interaction problem between a probe coil and a cylindrical borehole in a planar conducting sheet is solved using the truncated region eigenfunction expansion (TREE) approach and decomposition into two subproblems of different parities: odd and even. The impedance variation of the probe is calculated and the theoretical results are compared with numerical ones obtained by the finite elements method as well as with measurements.
Barkhausen Noise Study of Fatigue in AISI 4340 Steel
Authors: Baiotto Ricardo  , Schwanke Rui G.L.  , Gerhardt Gunther J.L.  , Nabinger Eduardo  , Viecelli Alexandre  , Missell Frank P.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of the present work is to use magnetic non-destructive evaluation techniques to examine fatigue in AISI 4340 steel, a material widely used for mechanical construction. Cylindrical test pieces were machined following the ISO 1143 standard in material which had been heat treated to give a hardness of 38 HRC. Fatigue testing was carried out in a rotating-bending machine with the ratio of minimum to maximum stress R=−1. The curve of applied stress vs. number of cycles to rupture (S/N curve) was determined, as was the fatigue limit, and the results were in good agreement with the literature. During the fatigue testing, at least half of the samples underwent periodic measurements of the magnetic Barkhausen noise. Numerical analysis of the Barkhausen bursts furnished values for the root mean square (RMS) Barkhausen voltage. As the test pieces approached rupture, the RMS Barkhausen voltage gradually increased and then presented a complex behavior. Similar behavior has been observed in other steels.
Evaluation of Advanced Sensor Types under Harmonic Excitation in ECT
Authors: Strapacova Tatiana  , Janousek Ladislav  , Smetana Milan  , Capova Klara
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this paper is to compare performances of various sensing elements in eddy current non-destructive inspection. A new eddy current testing probe is designed to compare detection and resolution capabilities of different sensors. Three magnetic sensors, specifically GMR, AMR and Fluxgate, and a standard induction coil are used as a sensing element. The excitation part of the probe is realized by two circular coils connected in series, but magnetically opposite to drive uniform eddy currents. The comparison of these sensors is realized on non-magnetic conductive plate where EDM notches with different depths are introduced. The numerical simulations and experimental measurements are performed under the same conditions for this purpose. The results are presented and discussed in the paper.
Leveraging Partnerships to Better Utilize Declining Resources: The Critical Infrastructure Risk Management Enhancement Initiative
Authors: Beland Michael
Published: February 2025

The homeland security enterprise is entering a new stage in its evolution. Focus is shifting to considerations of all-hazards, while resources are becoming increasingly scarce due to the challenging budget environment. Therefore, partnerships of all types must be leveraged to ensure that resources are used in the most effective ways possible. As the National Coordinator for critical infrastructure protection and resilience activities, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), National Protection and Programs Directorate, Office of Infrastructure Protection (NPPD/IP) has addressed this challenge by establishing a Critical Infrastructure Risk Management Enhancement Initiative (CIRMEI) and an associated Regional Initiative. These initiatives ensure that DHS and its partners are identifying risks to critical infrastructure, measuring program effectiveness in managing those risks, and aligning resources to develop and execute the tasks and activities that are most successful in addressing those risks. Through the establishment of a set of desired outcome statements and associated metrics, NPPD/IP is assessing critical infrastructure protection and resilience programs and activities; the results will inform programmatic investments. The Regional Initiative, a public and private sector outreach campaign that is part of CIRMEI, will leverage public-private partnerships to collect information from DHS partners that will be used to enhance delivery of regionally tailored capabilities in each geographic section of the United States. As DHS confronts the dynamic and ever-changing environment facing critical infrastructure, CIRMEI provides a defense for the expenditure of valuable monetary and human resources and strives to close identified gaps in risk management capabilities.
A Model For Positive Change: Influencing Positive Change in Cyber Security Strategy, Human Factor, and Leadership
Authors: Pelgrin William
Published: February 2025

Virtually every aspect of modern life is shaped by advancements in technology. While there are undeniable benefits to this ubiquitous use of technology and the Internet, we must also understand the security risks that come with them and take appropriate measures for preparedness. The challenges faced by government, industry, and academia continues to grow in volume and complexity as cyber security threats constantly evolve. The need to ensure that cyber security best practices are ingrained in everyone's behavior and continue to be an essential component of business operations has never been greater. Good cyber security is built on layers – a defense in depth strategy. A critical component of this strategy is to improve our cyber hygiene through positive change in behavior. The paper explores innovative ways to influence long lasting outcomes in three areas: cyber security strategy, human factor, and leadership.
On Using Speculative Computations for Parallel Reduction to Tridiagonal Form
Authors: Kuznetsov Sergey V
Published: February 2025

This paper is devoted to modifications of a two-step algorithm for reducing a matrix to tridiagonal form. At the first stage the matrix is reduced to a symmetric band matrix. A successive band reduction is then used to reduce the symmetric band matrix to tridiagonal form. Both stages apply two-sided orthogonal transformations to the matrix based on Householder reflectors. The underlying idea for our modifications is to use speculative computations of components of the Householder transformations. Performance comparisons between the Intel® Math Kernel Library (Intel® MKL), PLASMA tridiagonal reduction, and our implementation are provided.
Heterogeneous Sparse Matrix Computations on Hybrid GPU/CPU Platforms
Authors: Cardellini Valeria  , Fanfarillo Alessandro  , Filippone Salvatore
Published: February 2025

Hybrid GPU/CPU clusters are becoming very popular in the scientific computing community, as attested by the number of such systems present in the Top 500 list. In this paper, we address one of the key algorithms for scientific applications: the computation of sparse matrix-vector products that lies at the heart of iterative solvers for sparse linear systems.
Parallel Computing Design for Exact Diagonalization Scheme on Multi-band Hubbard Cluster Models
Authors: Yamada Susumu  , Imamura Toshiyuki  , Machida Masahiko
Published: February 2025

Quantum physics and chemistry highly demand parallel supercomputer and high-performance computing techniques. The exact diagonalization is a long-standing numerical scheme among various diagonalization based algorithms for small quantum cluster systems. In this paper, we present a new parallel computing strategy obtained by paying attention to the band degeneracy in the exact diagonalization for cluster molecules. The proposed parallel design naturally leads to two ways, one of which is based on the conventional method for the quantum lattice model, and the other of which is a new approach considering the structure of the model. We find that the latter runs faster than the former with up to 2048 cores.
Investigating Energy Consumption of an SRAM-based FPGA for Duty-Cycle Applications
Authors: Shahzad Khurram  , Oelmann Bengt
Published: February 2025

In order to conserve energy, battery powered embedded systems are typically designed with very low-power modules that offer limited computational power and communication bandwidth and therefore, are generally applicable to low-sample-rate intermittent applications. On the other hand, enabling an embedded system with a high-throughput processing resource such as an FPGA, high-throughput processing performance that is typically required in high-sample rate monitoring applications can be achieved. However, the high power consumption associated with an FPGA poses a major challenge in attaining significant lifetime for a battery-powered embedded system. In this paper, we investigate energy consumption of an SRAM-based FPGA in relation to duty-cycle applications. In order to achieve long operational lifetime in an FPGA-based embedded system, the possible options to dynamically manage the power consumption are studied and discussed. The experimental results suggest that the SRAM-based FPGA, XC6SLX16 that provides ample logic resources in relation to typical high-sample rate monitoring applications, can be used in a battery operated embedded systems while minimizing the energy consumption to 2.56 mJ for inactive duration of 235 ms or above.
Scalability and Fault Tolerance of the Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers for Sparse Grids
Authors: Khakhutskyy Valeriy  , Pflüger Dirk  , Hegland Markus
Published: February 2025

In this work we investigate the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) for the solution of regression problems using sparse grids on parallel and distributed systems. This method was successfully used in a number of applications for the parallel processing of large datasets. While the method allows for both parallelization in the data and in the degrees of freedom, research was mostly focused on the first approach so far. In this work we consider and compare both approaches.
Scilab on a hybrid platform
Authors: Lomüller Victor  , Ledru Sylvestre  , Charles Henri-Pierre
Published: February 2025

In this article we show the work done to port Scilab on an heterogeneous platform used in the H4H project. The platform is made with parallel nodes composed of a GPU accelerator connected to a standard processor. Such platform offers a lot of performance optimization opportunities.
Intelligence in the Republic of Macedonia in the Fight Against Terrorism
Authors: Stevkovski Ljupcho
Published: February 2025

The basic scientific problem of paper is explained through historical review of the development of the intelligence services in the independent Republic of Macedonia, structures and directions of reform in this area according to the new phenomena of so-called asymmetric threats. Exploring the current state of the security sector in the country, the paper details the processes specific segments that are engaged in this activity and the need for systemic regulation of this area. In this regard in detail is exposed anti-terror legislation and specialized institutions in charge of combating terrorism. The idea is to inform the international academic and professional public on historical and current aspects of intelligence in the country especially in the fight against terrorism.
Crime and Terror: Vanishing and Emerging Threats – New Criminal Markets
Authors: Raufer Xavier
Published: February 2025

The main argument of the text is problem of the new threats Europe is currently facing. Can we really say that terrorism is its major security problem? According to EUROPOL, terrorism is in decline in Europe. Author is showing us how the world of modern security threats is changing. He is setting new agenda, asking where all “old” criminals are going to go, when the common threats are gone. Several new criminal markets are being named: dangerous counterfeit, migration from the real world to the cyber world, corruption and looting of the major sports, through fixing bets. He is emphasizing criminal-hybrids and their increasing role in the future. At the end, author is giving interesting criminal forecast for years to come.
Navigation Function Based Decentralized Control of A Multi-Agent System with Network Connectivity Constraints
Authors: Kan Zhen  , Shea John M.  , Dixon Warren E.
Published: February 2025

A wide range of applications require or can benefit from collaborative behavior of a group of agents. The technical challenge addressed in this chapter is the development of a decentralized control strategy that enables each agent to independently navigate to ensure agents achieve a collective goal while the system maintains network connectivity. Specifically, cooperative controllers are developed for networked agents that have both limited sensing and network connectivity constraints. By modeling the interaction among the agents as a graph, several different approaches to address the problems of preserving network connectivity are presented, with the focus on a method that utilizes navigation function frameworks. By modeling network connectivity constraints as artificial obstacles in navigation functions, a decentralized control strategy is presented in two particular applications, formation control and rendezvous for a system of autonomous agents, which ensures global convergence to the unique minimum of the potential field (i.e., desired formation or desired destination) while preserving network connectivity. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the developed strategy.
Using GRASP for the Cover by s-Defective Independent Sets Problem
Authors: Buchanan Austin  , Chen Nannan  , Ma Xin
Published: February 2025

This paper considers the cover by s-defective independent sets problem (or, simply, the s-defective coloring problem), which generalizes the classical coloring problem. In the coloring problem, each color class should induce an edgeless subgraph. The s-defective coloring problem relaxes this requirement, allowing for at most s edges to appear in each color class's induced subgraph. We propose a local search neighborhood and apply the GRASP metaheuristic to the related minimization problem. The quality of the heuristically-generated solutions is evaluated with a commercial MIP solver. The integer programming formulation that we use generalizes the asymmetric representatives formulation.