bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linearities in Cascade Jump Controlled Stream Ciphers
Authors: Jansen Cees J.A.
Published: February 2025

Irregularly clocking of Linear Finite State Machines such as LFSRs is widely employed in stream ciphers. A special form of irregular clocking, known as jumping was introduced in [1,2] and further developed in [3]. Stream ciphers based on jumping appeared as candidates in the eSTREAM competition. One of the identified problems of these ciphers concerns the presence of linear relations of low degree in the key stream of the cipher, the distribution of which appears to be heavily biased. In [4] this issue is addressed leading to an O(n2n) algorithm to determine all linear relations. This paper addresses the problem of finding all linear relations of a given construction efficiently. It is shown that the coefficients of the linear relations are symmetric Boolean functions of the jump control bits, leading to a polynomial time and memory algorithm to determine the number of linear relations and the highest bias value. The results show that it is feasible to determine the linear equivalence bias for LFSMs with characteristic polynomials of degree 100 and higher.
Linear Codes of Good Error Control Performance
Authors: Baicheva Tsonka
Published: February 2025

Since 1996 it is already known that the wide used cryptographic algorithms, with formally proven security, can be broken by inducing errors during encryption process. Therefore, the threat of successful fault analysis is reasonable and some countermeasures have to be taken. One approach for achieving the security against fault analysis is to use error detection and error correction codes.
Formalizing Parallel Programming in Large Scale Distributed Networks: From Tasks Parallel and Data Parallel to Applied Categorical Structures
Authors: Cong-Vinh Phan
Published: February 2025

A computing paradigm is currently at crucial point in its evolution: distributed computing (DC), marked by the increasing developments of large scale distributed networks (LSDNs). In DC, every application or service is split up into tasks that run simultaneously on multiple computers communicating over an LSDN. Hence, DC is a form of parallel computing in heterogeneity, decentralization, nondeterminism and dynamicity of the network. The overarching goal of DC is to support such LSDNs capable of management and high performance. Meeting this grand challenge of DC requires a fundamental approach to the aspects of tasks and data parallel not tackled before. To this end, taking advantage of the categorical structures we establish, in this chapter, a firm formal basis for specifying tasks parallel, data parallel, peer-to-peer structures and self-organization in LSDNs. All of these are to formalize parallel programming in LSDNs.
Enhanced Lookup Queries for Large-Scale Distributed Data Structures
Authors: Pujol-Ahulló Jordi  , García-López Pedro
Published: February 2025

Structured peer-to-peer systems are a class of distributed data structures that provided initially only exact-match queries in a scalable way. Exact-match queries consist of retrieving single values from the network (i.e., put(key,value)/value←get(key)), in such a way that if the data exists, it is returned. Unfortunately, this service is not enough for modern distributed and parallel applications. Thereafter richer queries have been the focus on the field of distributed systems based on peer-to-peer networks. Range queries, k-nearest neighbour queries and spatial queries belong to the family of similarity queries. This sort of queries are used by a wide range of applications. This chapter performs a comparison of the last and most remarkable works in this field. To do so, a set of evaluation parameters are defined with which all systems are compared to. Examples of the analysed parameters are: overlay network topology, application domain, query correctness, completeness, storage and time efficiency and load balancing, to say the least. The goal, thus, is to provide an insight on peer-to-peer-enabled distributed and parallel algorithms that support similarity queries in the large scale.
Chemical-Biological Terrorism: Threats and Responses
Authors: Tucker Jonathan B.
Published: February 2025

The problem of chemical-biological (CB) terrorism can be divided into two categories: (1) low-end threats involving crude attacks with toxic industrial chemicals and natural disease agents such as anthrax; and (2) high-end risks requiring the mastery of advanced chemical and biological technologies. Although low-end threats are far more likely in the near term, high-end risks will become of greater concern as dual-use technologies proliferate widely. Policymakers should consider both current threats and emerging risks when developing strategies of prevention and response.
Nondestructive Evaluation of Ferromagnetic Structural Materials Using FG Sensor
Authors: Suzuki Takayuki  , Terasaki Akimitsu  , Sasamoto Akira  , Nishimura Yoshihiro  , Teramoto Tokuo
Published: February 2025

Nondestructive evaluation tests for ferromagnetic structural materials were performed by magnetic flux leakage technique using a fluxgate sensor. For an artificial defect of 0.3 mm width, changes in perpendicular magnetic flux densities Bzcould be measured at 5 mm lift-off height and changes in longitudinal magnetic flux densities By could be measured at 10 mm lift-off height. For artificial semi-circle and triangle surface defects, the distribution of magnetic flux densities corresponded to the cross section shapes of these defects. In-situ magnetic flux measurements Byfor permalloy under tensile loading were also performed. And changes in Bywere related to the tensile stress, where Bywas found directly proportional to stress even at elastic region.
Standoff Detection and Imaging of Suspicious and Concealed Objects with Electromagnetic Waves in the Centimetre and Millimetre Range
Authors: Sklarczyk C.  , Dobmann G.  , Melev V.  , Mayer K.
Published: February 2025

Dangerous and illegal objects like metallic and non-metallic weapons, explosives or drugs worn by a person and concealed beneath the clothes can be detected and imaged by means of electromagnetic waves in the centimetre and millimetre range (“microwaves”). Due to their non-ionizing nature and low power these waves are innocuous to humans. Experimental investigations have been performed on several objects at the frequencies of 94 GHz and 24 GHz. Mechanical scanning of concealed and non-concealed objects has been done with compact radar modules (broadband frequency modulated and narrowband) with different antenna types and with standoff distances in the range of several decimetres. The objects have been reconstructed three-dimensionally in short time with synthetic aperture focusing technique using Fourier transform to accelerate the calculations (3D FT-SAFT). Some examples are given of imaging of suspicious objects (metallic, ceramic, organic) concealed beneath different types of clothes.
Pulsed Terahertz Imaging for Nondestructive Evaluation
Authors: Duling Irl N.
Published: February 2025

Pulsed terahertz imaging, or time-domain terahertz (TD-THz) has been used for Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) of the sprayed on foam insulation of the space shuttle external fuel tank. TD-THz is a non-contact method to produce images of internal structure without ionizing radiation. Wider acceptance of TD-THz in NDE applications has been slowed by the size and cost of the systems, and the fragile coupling of the laser source to the sensor heads. Recent advances has allowed these systems to be reduced in size and weight by close to a factor of 20 while increasing performance and reducing cost. using optical fiber allows remote inspection and robust alignment. Combine those advances is Picometrix' patented fiber-coupled sensors and robust field-deployable TD-THz systems are now possible. This talk will present the wide range of NDE applications that are currently being conducted using these systems. TD-THz has been used to: detect corrosion under insulation on pipes; detect delaminations and water intrusion in radomes; identify voids and disbonds in fiber reinforced resin pipeline repairs; produce cross sectional images of objects using CT-like reconstruction; conduct non-contact thickness measurement of paint layers; and more.
A Multiple Frequency Strategy for Reconstruction of Stress Corrosion Crack from ECT Signals
Authors: Wang Li  , Chen Zhenmao
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a scheme for reconstruction of deep Stress Corrosion Cracks (SCC) from ECT signals is proposed based on a layering analysis and multi-frequency excitation strategy in order to improve the sizing accuracy of SCC. The shape profiles and conductivity of the crack are reconstructed respectively using a hybrid inversion scheme. The sizes of several cracks are reconstructed from simulated signals of conductive notches. It is demonstrated that the new strategy can give some improvements in the sizing of artificial SCCs.
Performance Demonstration Programs for Steam Generator Tubing Analysts in Korea
Authors: Cho Chan Hee  , Jee Dong Hyun  , Jung Jee Hong  , Lee Hee Jong
Published: February 2025

The Korea Electric Power Research Institute established performance demonstration programs for non-destructive examination personnel who analyze eddy current data for steam generator tubing in the nuclear power plant. The purpose of these performance demonstration programs is to ensure a uniform knowledge and skill level of data analysts and contribute to safely operate the nuclear power plant. In Korea, there have been many changes in non-destructive examination of steam generator tubing such as inspection scope, plugging criteria and qualification requirements. According to the Notice 2008-23 revised by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, the analyst for steam generator tubing shall be qualified as the qualified data analyst, and the site specific performance demonstration program shall be implemented for them. KEPRI developed these performance demonstration programs and they are being successfully implemented. The analyst's performance is expected to be improved by the implementation of these programs.
Designing habitable interactive spaces: a smart home case study in Greece
Authors: Bourdakis Vassilis
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses the design of habitable interactive spaces, drawing from the experience of designing, implementing, coding and monitoring a smart home over the last five years. The design loop is described, failure areas identified and discussed with particular focus on users' behaviour. A series of questions are set, addressing–from a design perspective–occupancy, data collection, processing and re-actions of an interactive environment.
Awareness for Fostering Serendipitous Interaction in Public Intelligent Environments
Authors: Canova Calori Ilaria
Published: February 2025

This paper presents possibilities offered by public intelligent environment to foster learning through serendipitous interaction among uncoupled users. Four possible situations of how serendipitous interaction may occur and lead to learning activities are presented. In these situations capturing the right information, modeling it and providing awareness information back to the users plays a major role. Therefore elements that make up this awareness information are presented and a model for fostering serendipitous interaction in public intelligent environments is also proposed.
IT Support at Home – What Do You Do When the Computer is on the Blink?
Authors: Tjäder Claes
Published: February 2025

Today there is an increased dependence in having access to Internet to acquire information and eServices provided. Numerous numbers of people are not able to make use of the advantages of information technology. Therefore they are at risk to be excluded. Possibilities to have access to an IT support at home could be crucial
Analysis of Prosthetic Gait on Stairs, Slopes and Uneven Terrain
Authors: Kitayama Ichiro  , Nishihara Kazuyoshi
Published: February 2025

The results of our research into the latest global technology of microprocessor controlled lower limb prostheses produced the Intelligent Prosthetic (IP) System that is enjoying international demand. We are also developing new prosthetic system that will allow the user to negotiate various terrains, and we will continue to report on gait analysis studies among trans-tibial and trans-femoral prosthesis users. In this study, we followed one subject using a trans-tibial prosthesis, analyzing his gait on different terrain such as stairs, slopes and uneven terrain, and investigated the necessary function at the knee joint for trans-femoral prosthesis users.
Inclusion – What Does It Cost and How Do We Measure This?
Authors: Schraner Ingrid  , Bolzan Natalie
Published: February 2025

The title of this paper implies a number of common assumptions, which the paper subsequently questions. Asking what inclusion costs implies the current situation is exclusionary, and suggests there is a possible, different, inclusionary situation albeit at a measurable additional cost. This paper takes the perspective of those excluded in the current situation and questions the assumption that the current exclusionary situation necessarily costs less than an inclusionary one. To do so, it presents a novel economic methodology that measures and compares cost and effectiveness of both the current situation and a situation seen as optimal by those using Assistive Technology Systems.
Universal Design in Third Level Design Teaching in Ireland
Authors: Callanan M.J.  , Fennell A.M.  , Owens A.  , Dyer M.R.  , Hubbard J.E.  , Craddock G.M.  , Owens H.
Published: February 2025

In Ireland, a feasibility study aimed to enhance third level teaching of Universal Design at Trinity College Dublin. The project – funded by the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design (CEUD) in Ireland's National Disability Authority – was carried out by TrinityHaus (Trinity College Dublin's Centre for Construction Innovation and Sustainability). The aim of the project was to research existing practices in Universal Design teaching both in Ireland and internationally. Universal Design is the design and composition of the environment so it can be accessed understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of age, size, ability or disability. Universal Design is relevant to the design of environments, products, processes, services, organisations, business models and experiences. The research – a combination of desk and primary research – reviewed Universal Design curriculum content at third level. The desk research included a review of national and international literature and online resources. An overview of international approaches to Universal Design teaching is provided. For the primary research, CEUD's Universal Design experts were consulted and topic guides were developed. Topic guides are a form of questionnaire used to guide the interview process and probe for information in an unbiased and unleading way. A series of face-to-face interviews with teachers in third level institutions in Ireland was conducted using these topic guides. As well as forming an overview of Universal Design teaching in Ireland at undergraduate and postgraduate level, the interviews revealed the level of understanding of Universal Design amongst those currently teaching the subject in third level institutions in Ireland. On the basis of the findings, conclusions are made about the shortfalls of current Universal Design teaching practices, as well as identifying successful approaches both nationally and internationally. An outline Universal Design curriculum module is subsequently developed as well as guidance notes for teachers to ensure that Universal Design is taught in accurate and successful way.
FTIR Spectroscopy of Cells, Tissues and Body Fluids
Authors: Naumann Dieter  , Fabian Heinz  , Lasch Peter
Published: February 2025

The last 15 years have witnessed the development of modern infrared spectroscopy into a useful biodiagnostic tool for the analysis of cells, tissues, and body fluids. Dedicated technologies have evolved for rapidly discriminating between diverse microorganisms, testing single cells, and identifying various disease states in humans and animals. Particularly interesting applications arose by means of light microscopes coupled to infrared spectrometers. Infrared microscopes equipped with focal plane array detectors allow routinely the parallel collection of thousands of pixel spectra across microscopic areas of biological samples. This imaging technology can be used for automatic histological segmentation and imaging of tissue structures without dyes or molecular probes. Recent biomedical studies have proven that FT-IR imaging can be used to objectively differentiate benign from malignant histopathological structures in various tissues. Basically the same experimental set-up is also well suited to integrate the fundamental tasks of microbiological analysis, namely detection, enumeration, and differentiation of micro-organisms in one single apparatus. Due to its high brilliance, IR-synchrotron light coupled into high-quality FT-IR microscopes has been used for spectral mapping of single cells at a spatial resolution near the diffraction limit of mid-infrared light. The problem of extracting the characteristic information from the typically very complex, fingerprint-like infrared signatures of biological samples is generally addressed by applying bioinformatic techniques such as factor-, cluster-, linear discriminant analysis, and artificial neural networks together with so-called “feature extraction” algorithms. Examples are given on the characterization of micro-organisms, analysis of single eukaryotic cells, imaging of diseased human tissues, and disease recognition from body fluids that highlight the new possibilities of modern biomedical infrared spectroscopy.
Achievements and Challenges of Integrating Risk Management into European Spatial Development Initiatives
Authors: Schmidt-Thomé Philipp  , Gensheimer Michaela  , van der Lecq René
Published: February 2025

Spatial planning is often considered as an important tool to address the challenges related to natural hazards. European spatial development policy initiatives are also further developed in this respect. The achievements made by policymakers and researchers and their applicability in European spatial development are discussed; in particular the efforts made in the framework of the ESPON Programme. Finally a brief assessment of the achievements and the challenges give an indication of the extent to which it seems feasible to use European spatial development policy initiatives to address natural hazards and climate change impacts.
Rethinking Risk Management Policies: From “Participation” to Processes of Dialogue, Debate, and Negotiation
Authors: Forester John  , Theckethil Reshmi Krishnan
Published: February 2025

Risk management requires integrating scientific and political processes to respond to public concerns legitimately and practically. Fostering public participation is easier to preach than to espouse. This chapter clarifies key elements of public participation—dialogue, debate, and negotiation—to help citizens and officials improve future participatory processes in settings demanding effective and responsive risk management.
Rule-based intention recognition from spatio-temporal motion track data in ambient assisted living
Authors: Kiefer Peter  , Stein Klaus  , Schlieder Christoph
Published: February 2025

A central design issue in ambient assisted living consists in creating environments which show a smart behavior that is transparent to the user in the sense that the effects of ambient intelligence are easily predictable. Another aspect of behavioral transparency is related to the effective and efficient communication with the user about relevant background knowledge. Rule-based specifications are widely used in today's home automation systems as a means to communicate user knowledge.
On Building a Web Services-based Prototype for RFID Applications
Authors: Sundaram David  , Zhou Wei  , Piramuthu Selwyn  , Pienaar Schalk
Published: February 2025

RFID tags are frequently being incorporated in supply chain systems that communicate with one another. Among other things, these systems communicate individually with RFID tags that pass through their field of presence as well as share data thus collected with other systems. There is a need to link these elements to develop e-infrastructures that enable an organization to learn and evolve, be agile and flexible, and adapt to the changing requirements of the highly inter-connected environment. While providing flexibility and evolvability we argue that the characteristics of information generated through Web Services and RFID tags enable us to provide services that are also stable and available. The stabilisation and convergence of standards for the execution of business processes, Web Services, RFID data enable us to design cyber-infrastructures that resemble the supply chain services they support. We develop a Web Services-based prototype for such applications.
Synthetic Training Data Generation for ADL Modeling
Authors: Monekosso Dorothy N.  , Remagnino Paolo
Published: February 2025

This paper describes a data generator to synthesize sensor observations in the context of environment monitoring. The overall goal of our work is to monitor the well-being of occupant(s) in a home. Sensors are embedded in a smart home to unobtrusively record environmental parameters. Based on the sensor observations, behavior analysis and modeling are performed. Behavior modeling and analysis require large data sets to be collected over long periods of time to achieve the level of accuracy expected. A data generator – was developed based on initial data i.e. data collected over periods lasting weeks to facilitate concurrent data collection, and development of modeling algorithms. The data generator is based on statistical inference techniques to produce models. Variation is introduced into the data by perturbing the models.
Memory Baubles and History Tinsels
Authors: Petrelli Daniela  , Light Ann
Published: February 2025

This design proposal explores the concept of tangible digital mementos concealed inside baubles to be periodically revisited at special occasions. A photostory describes the concept and a technical description provides details. We outline how this concept could be extended to other objects, like tinsels, creating chains for stories.
The Proposal of Intelligent Assistant for Graduation Thesis Preparation
Authors: Čech Pavel  , Olševičová Kamila
Published: February 2025

We propose an application that helps university students to find out the best themes for their bachelor or master theses, to orientate in up-to-date resources relevant to the theme, and to navigate through the thesis preparation process. We describe the scenario of theses' workflow at Czech universities. Then we explain application requirements, we define the agent-based architecture of the application and we suggest the resources recommendation mechanism.
Time Awareness Tool for enhancing group times' coordination in the virtual workspace
Authors: Romero Margarida
Published: February 2025

Collective time management is one of virtual team's major challenges in Computer Supported Collaborative Work (CSCW) and Learning (CSCL). In collaborative activities, each group member need to know and regulate their individual and collective time being aware about their own and their team-mates expected availabilities. Assuming that group awareness could be improved by enhancing the reflexive properties of the Groupware we developed an awareness tool, the Time Awareness Tool (TAT) to enhance inter subjective awareness of team-mates times through a shared visualization of prospective times. We will test the Time Awareness Tool in the context of a virtual campus collaborative activity within the virtual team members will need to coordinate their times to achieve a common project.
Development of a customized RFID reader for a distribution centre with agent-based control
Authors: G.-Escribano Javier  , Zangróniz Roberto  , García Andrés  , Encinas Julio Cesar  , de las Morenas Javier  , Pastor José Manuel
Published: February 2025

Distribution centers management is often a drawback for many companies in which delivery time is a critical factor. Especially for companies which have to send their products in small quantities to their customers, orders configuring and retrieving is a tedious and time consuming task. The use of mixed pallets formed with different classes of products is also a common practice for retailers. In order to improve performance of all this, this work proposes an experimental platform which represents the whole distribution center, and in which agents and RFID elements are used. Use of both RFID and agents is what is called here an RFID-Integrated Manufacturing System II. In addition to one virtual simulation, a physical model is being used in laboratory, composed of physical elements, which represents inputs and outputs of the warehouse in a distribution center. In this part is where physical RFID readers are included. They are in charge of taking information of loads getting in and out from the distribution center. The main target of this article is to show how these physical readers have been developed and what are the results of using them in the described physical platform.
DEISA, the Distributed European Infrastructure for Supercomputing Applications
Authors: Gentzsch Wolfgang
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an overview of the DEISA2 project, vision, mission, objectives, and the DEISA infrastructure and services offered to the e-science community. The different types of applications are discussed which specifically benefit from this infrastructure and services, and the DEISA Extreme Computing Initiative for supercomputing applications is highlighted. Finally, we analyse the DEISA sustainability strategy and present lessons learned.
UNICORE 6 – A European Grid Technology
Authors: Streit Achim  , Bergmann Sandra  , Breu Rebecca  , Daivandy Jason  , Demuth Bastian  , Giesler André  , Hagemeier Björn  , Holl Sonja  , Huber Valentina  , Mallmann Daniel  , Memon Ahmed Shiraz  , Memon Mohammad Shahbaz  , Menday Roger  , Rambadt Michael  , Riedel Morris  , Romberg Mathilde  , Schuller Bernd  , Lippert Thomas
Published: February 2025

This paper is about UNICORE, a European Grid Technology with more than 10 years of history. Originating from the Supercomputing domain, the latest version UNICORE 6 has matured into a general-purpose Grid technology that follows established Grid and Web services standards and offers a rich set of features to its users. An architectural insight into UNICORE is given, highlighting the workflow features as well as the different client options. The paper closes with a set of example use cases and e-infrastructures where the UNICORE technology is used today.
Clouds: An Opportunity for Scientific Applications?
Authors: Deelman Ewa  , Berriman Bruce  , Juve Gideon  , Kee Yang-Suk  , Livny Miron  , Singh Gurmeet
Published: February 2025

This paper examines issues related to the execution of scientific applications, and in particular computational workflows, on Cloud-based infrastructure. The paper describes the layering of application-level schedulers on top of the Cloud resources that enables grid-based applications to run on the Cloud. Finally, the paper examines issues of Cloud data management that supports workflow execution. We show how various ways of handling data have impact on the cost of the overall computations.
An Active Data Model
Authors: Ho Tim  , Abramson David
Published: February 2025

The Grid allows scientists to design and perform very large-scale experiments that are not possible previously. Many of these experiments produce a large number of data sets and significantly the amount of data being captured, generated, replicated and archived is growing at an astonishing rate. We have designed and prototyped an Active Data System that provides a complete, automated solution to problems that arise in the management and curation of derived data. Significantly, the system allows users to recompute data rather than necessarily store it, and adds a layer that provides efficient access to remotely distributed replicated sources across different middleware stacks.
The European Grid Initiative and the HPC Ecosystem
Authors: Öster Per
Published: February 2025

Through national initiatives and projects funded by the European Commission a number of e-Infrastructures have evolved in Europe. Over a number of years different grids have matured from test and proof-of-concept to full-fledged production infrastructures with large-scale research collaborations dependent on their existence. In this article the European Grid Initiative Design Study and the vision to create a sustainable organisation for European e-Infrastructure and its role in the HPC ecosystem is presented and discussed. The EGI Blueprint is presented and found to be complementary to the initiative for extreme scale computer facilities in Europe represented by the Partnership for Advance Computing in Europe.
Modelling Deterrence in Cyberia
Authors: Cioffi-Revilla Claudio
Published: February 2025

Deterrence is an ancient strategy (as early as the 4th millennium BCE) based on defence and retaliation to prevent undesirable behaviour from a potential attacker. Specifically, deterrence—both classical and cyber-related—is based on a potential attacker perceiving an unacceptable cost and consequently refraining from attack. Similarly to nuclear deterrence, cyber-deterrence may be an effective strategy against foreign governmental attackers, who might refrain from attacking for fear of retaliation. However, cyber-deterrence may not be as effective against individual terrorist hackers or clandestine organisations that have a high propensity towards risks or simply believe they can attack with impunity. This paper outlines some solutions to the fundamental challenge of modelling deterrence in Cyberia and discusses theoretical and policy implications based on computational social science.
The Role of Europe in Matching Today's Asymmetric Threats
Authors: Grasso Giancarlo
Published: February 2025

If one Member States imposes rigourous security standards in relation to a particular cross-border infrastructure, that infrastructure and the services it provides will still be vulnerable if another Member State does not impose adequate or similar measures of protection on its side of the border. Although each Member State has the responsibility to protect the critical infrastructure present under its jurisdiction, it is crucial for the security of the European Union to make sure that the most important infrastructures that have an impact on two or more Member States, or on a single Member State in the case that the critical infrastructure is located in another Member State, are effectively protected and that individual Member States are not rendered vulnerable because of the existence of lower security standards in other Member States. In today's context of new dangers, but also new opportunities, the strong commitment demonstrated by Member States to give the enlarged European Union the tools it needs to make a major contribution to security efforts and stability within a context of well governed countries in and around Europe and in the world is stronger than ever.
Quantifying effects of dual task performance and cognition on gait coordination in elderly geriatric patients
Authors: Lamoth C.J.C.  , van Deudekom F.J.A.  , van Campen J.P.  , de Vries O.J.  , Pijnappels M.
Published: February 2025

The effects of a cognitive dual task on gait coordination in 24 older geriatric day clinic patients while walking at self-selected speed was studied and related to cognitive function. Trunk accelerations were registered (DynaPort®; McRoberts) and used to calculate gait and trunk parameters. The Mini Mental State Examination and the Seven Minute Screen were administered. With dual task, walking speed was significantly lower, while variability of stride time increased and stability and regularity of lateral trunk accelerations decreased. These results provide support that changes in cognitive functions are likely to contribute to an increased fall risk.
Eucapnic voluntary hyperpnea testing in spinal cord injured athletes
Authors: Labreche J.M.  , McKenzie D.C.
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Eucapnic voluntary hyperpnea (EVH) is a sensitive test for airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). It is accepted by the IOC Medical Commission and used extensively in able bodied (AB) athletes to confirm the diagnosis of asthma. AHR has been shown in spinal cord injury (SCI), however EVH testing has not been reported. The purpose of this study was to compare airway responsiveness in two athletic populations; SCI rugby players and elite AB swimmers. Methods: Sixteen swimmers (AB) and twelve rugby players (SCI – tetraplegia) performed the standard EVH test. A drop of >10% in FEV1was considered a positive test. Results: Positive test incidence was 81% and 69% for the AB and SCI groups respectively. Although FEV1/FVC was normal in the SCI group (84%), predicted FVC and FEV1were significantly lower (80%, 81%) when compared to AB (122%, 109%). Mean ventilations during hyperpnea were also significantly lower (SCI=95.9L/min, AB=154.5L/min). Conclusion: EVH testing in SCI produces prevalence levels similar to previous tests for airway hyperresponsiveness in this population. However, due to smaller ventilatory capacities, the EVH test may not be as sensitive a tool for the SCI population (compared to an AB population). Additional testing may be required.
Continuous versus discontinuous protocols using a graded one-legged peak exercise test for lower limb amputees
Authors: Wezenberg D.  , Houdijk J.H.P.  , van der Woude L.H.V.  , de Haan A.
Published: February 2025

Testing patients with a uni-lateral leg amputation using a graded one-legged peak exercise test (GOPET) poses difficulties. The smaller muscle mass results in increased intramuscular tension, thereby restricting blood flow to the active muscle. This ultimately leads to enhanced local fatigue in the active muscles. This is aggravated when vascular problems are present, such as often seen in persons who underwent amputation. This study investigated the influence of a discontinuous protocol when performing a GOPET in healthy participants. It is hypothesized that the resting phase following the exercise phase will restore blood flow, postponing local fatigue resulting in a higher measured aerobic capacity. Eight healthy participants performed three GOPET's: a continuous protocol (CON) and two discontinuous protocols in which an exercise phase of 60 (DIS60) or 90 s (DIS90) was followed by a 30 s rest period. No difference in aerobic capacity and peak heart rate were found among the three protocols. Peak workload and exercise duration were significantly higher in both discontinuous protocols compared to the continuous protocol. Subjectively, participants experienced the DIS protocols as more comfortable. A discontinuous protocol elicits similar aerobic capacities and peak heart rates, but higher peak workloads and lower discomfort, compared to a continuous protocol. Given the subjective preference, a discontinuous protocol may be advantageous over a continuous protocol, which may especially apply for patients with an amputation due to vascular problems.
Factors determining the self-assessed wheelchair mobility in individuals with spinal cord injury
Authors: Anneken V.  , Scheuer T.  , Hirschfeld S.  , Richarz P.
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Wheelchair mobility is preconditioning for wheelchair dependent individuals with SCI to participate in activities required for daily living. The focus was to identify factors which distinguish good wheelchair mobility throughout daily life. Methods: Postal, retrospective and anonymous data was collected based upon a self developed questionnaire including questions for self-assessment of wheelchair mobility, sociodemographic and lifestyle data. Inclusion criteria comprised subjects with acquired SCI, age > 16 years, complete wheelchair dependency and a lesion level lower C5. Results: 287 persons aged 17 to 74 years (Mean = 42.8) were included. Statistical analysis showed that a good self-assessed wheelchair mobility is correlated with a lower lesion level, accidental SCI, male gender and younger age. Furthermore a low or normal BMI, employment, participation in leisure activities and athleticism distinguish good wheelchair mobility. Conclusion: To improve self-determinati independence in daily living of individuals with SCI the factors which were shown to be positively correlated with increased wheelchair mobility require intensive attention in the rehabilitation process. Many of these factors are already integrated into the inpatient rehabilitation program, however, greater consideration is required in the life-long aftercare. Hence, providing a perspective and support for the vocational situation and leading to a more active lifestyle in leisure time can help prevent social isolation and health risk factors such as obesity and depression.
Effectiveness of robot-assisted gait training in persons with spinal cord injury: a systematic review
Authors: Swinnen E.  , Duerinck S.  , Kerckhofs E.
Published: February 2025

This systematic review summarizes studies concerning the effectiveness of robot-assisted gait training in persons with spinal cord injury. Although promising results have been reported in case studies and small cohort studies, but there is insufficient evidences to draw firm conclusions.
Effect of 6-week CIMT of the upper extremity on motor function and quality of movement in persons with chronic stroke
Authors: Zijp N.I.  , Boers C.  , Swaan L.  , Roelse N.C.  , Blokhuis A.  , ten Katen M.  , Nienhuys K.N.G.  , de Groot S.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of 6-week constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) on motor function and quality of movement in persons with chronic stroke. Furthermore, the relationship between motor function and quality of movement was analyzed. 15 Persons with chronic stroke (time since stroke > 6 months) received 6-weeks of CIMT. Before and after the CIMT program the following tests were performed: Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Motricity Index (MI), Dutch version of Motor Activity Log amount of use score (MAL-AOU) and quality of movement score (MAL-QOM), Nine-hole peg test (NHPT), and the Erasmus Modified Nottingham Sensory Assessment (EmNSA). Persons with a chronic stroke improved significantly on the ARAT (p=0.05), MI (p=0.02), MAL-AOU (p=0.01), MAL-QOM (p<0.001), NHPT (p=0.02) but not on the EmNSA (p=0.27). After CIMT, the quality of movement (MAL-QOM) was strongly correlated with the amount of use score (MAL-AOU, r=0.94) and the NHPT (r=0.81). Low correlations were found with ARAT (r=0.26), MI (r=0.05) and EmNSA (r=0.29). It can be concluded that a 6-week CIMT program is effective in improving motor function and quality of movement in persons with chronic stroke while sensory function did not improve. quality of movement is strongly related to the speed of task completion but not to strength or dexterity.
Influence of FES cycling on spasticity in subjects with incomplete spastic paraplegia
Authors: Reichenfelser W.  , Hackl H.  , Wiedner J.  , Hufgard J.  , Gstaltner K.  , Mina S.  , Hanke S.  , Gfoehler M.
Published: February 2025

Commonly used methods for quantification of spasticity have shown controversial reliability. In this study we propose a method for quick determination of spasticity in spinal cord injured subjects on a cycling and measurement system. Measurements with test persons with incomplete spastic paraplegia have shown that spasticity is decreased after a 30 min cycling training with functional electrical stimulation (FES).
Ergonomic indexes for upper limb musculoskeletal disorders risk quantification according to manual wheelchair kinematics
Authors: Louis N.  , Desroches G.  , Dumas R.  , Vaslin P.  , Cheze L.  , Gorce P.
Published: February 2025

Manual wheelchair propulsion is a well known factor of upper limb musculoskeletal disorders risk (ULMDR). Through a large bibliographic review, movement amplitude and repetition, proximity of joints limits, user overweight and vertical forces are commonly admitted as the main risk factors of upper limb injuries in wheelchair propulsion. Thus, we propose a clinically usable method to quantify ULMDR according to wheelchair kinematics. Through a synthesis of literature information, for the three upper limb joints, ergonomic indexes were grouped in a general equation to quantify ULMDR. A case study has been realized. A 3D analysis of upper limb motion during propulsion was made using a Vicon 460 system. Four different wheelchair configurations were tested: two seat heights and two anterior-posterior wheel positions. For both seat heights, computed ULMDR are less important for backward position. For both antero-posterior wheel positions, computed ULMDR are less important for the highest seat position. The results showed good promises at quantifying the impact of sitting changes on ULMDR. These ergonomic indexes could be helpful in clinical settings when prescribing a wheelchair. To validate this method, a longitudinal study will be performed. Forces applied on hand rims will be added in further development.
The Role of Independent Scientific Input in NATO
Authors: Heap Brian
Published: February 2025

NATO receives scientific input from multiple sources. One of these channels supports a non-military civil function served by the NATO Science for Peace and Security Programme [1] which is administered by the Public Diplomacy Division (PDD). Direction for the Programme is provided by the NATO Science for Peace and Security Committee consisting of national representatives from each of the 26 Alliance countries. The PDD which is a new Division within NATO has emerged from a distinguished past going back almost to the Second World War. Since that time priorities have changed leading to the repositioning of the Science Programme to deal with NATO's new international challenges. The history of this evolution, the importance of independent scientific advice, and the composition and role of the new Science Programme are outlined. Under the new name of ‘Science for Peace and Security’ (SPS) the Programme seeks to influence and fulfil NATO's strategic objectives which include enhanced security in member states and partner countries, and the promotion of action through cooperation. While the Programme's objectives together with its various components and mechanisms used to procure and deploy scientific input have been reshaped, a critique will show that limitations persist which restrict the international impact of NATO's non-military civil function and that a high-level review of its role in the twenty-first century would be timely.
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Turkey (2002–2008)
Authors: Akbas Etem
Published: February 2025

To develop consensus-based recommendations formeasures to be taken by medical and public health professionals if Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) viruses are used as biological weapons against a civilian population. The viruses are geographically restricted to the areas where their host species live. CCHF is a viral haemorrhagic fever of the Nairovirus genus of the family Bunyaviridae. CCHF virus is a tick-borne virus that causes a severe hemorrhagic disease in humans with a case fatality rate of approximately 30%. Although primarily a zoonosis, sporadic cases and outbreaks of CCHF affecting humans do occur. The disease is endemic in many countries in Africa, Europe and Asia. CCHF was first observed in the Crimea by Russian scientists in 1944 and 1945. Congo virus was first isolated in Africa from the blood of a febrile patient in Congo in 1956. It has been seem some of cities at TURKEY since 2002. According to the figures of Ministry Health, 3128 cases were notified from 2002 to 2008 and 155 cases resulted in death. The Ministry of Health, in close collaborations with the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, is currently implementing control measures, and enhanced CCHF surveillance has been established nationwide. Public awareness campaigns are ongoing, stressing the adoption of personal protective measures to avoid tick bites, and targeting the rural population through television, radio, posters and leaflets.
NATO and the Balkans
Authors: Watkins Amadeo
Published: February 2025

The author revisits the Western Balkan region, which has remained a front line areas of engagement for NATO during the past decade or so and tries to answer over the short to medium term a few simple questions: have developments since 2006 benefited the Alliance, have they changed the political and security map of this problematic region and what remains to be done?
Interdisciplinary Cooperation to Counter Biological Risk
Authors: Epstein Gerald L.
Published: February 2025

This paper is a summary of a presentation. It discusses the nature of procedures and interests in countering biological risks by personnel in various societal sectors. It particularly looks at the overlap and similarities between and amongst certain sectors in light of possible cooperative endeavors. It also introduces The Global Forum on Biorisks as a strategic way for various sectors to collaborate across disciplines both interactively and as a means of sharing useful information.
A data-flow modification of the MUSCLE algorithm for multiprocessors and a web interface for it
Authors: Salnikov Alexey N.
Published: February 2025

Nucleotideand aminoacidsequences research is actual for molecular biology and bioengineering. An important aspect of analysis of such sequences is multiple alignment. This article discusses the implementations of the MUSCLE and ClustalW programs on multiprocessors and a web interface to them. The modification of the MUSCLE algorithm realize a data-flow manner of sequence alignment. It uses the PARUS system to build a data-flow graph and execute this graph on one multiprocessor as a MPI-program. The data-flow algorithm has been tested on the sequences of human Long Terminal Repeats class five (LTR5) and several other examples.
Skeletons for multi/many-core systems
Authors: Aldinucci Marco  , Danelutto Marco  , Kilpatrick Peter
Published: February 2025

We discuss how algorithmic skeletons (and structured parallel programming models in general) can be used to efficiently and seamlessly program multicore as well as many-core systems. We introduce a new version of the muskel skeleton library that can be used to target multi/many-core systems and we present experimental results that demonstrate the feasibility of the approach. The experimental results presented also give an idea of the computational grains that can be exploited on current, state-of-the-art multi-core systems.
Exploring the GPU for Enhancing Parallelism on Color and Texture Analysis
Authors: Igual Francisco  , Mayo Rafael  , Hartley Timothy D.R.  , Catalyurek Umit  , Ruiz Antonio  , Ujaldón Manuel
Published: February 2025

Textural features are quite effective in pattern recognition and image analysis algorithms, but their use comes with high computational cost. In this work, we present novel implementations on graphics processors (GPUs) for fast calculations of a set of basic operations for color and texture analysis. Our approach focuses on CUDA programming for exploiting the inherent parallelism and computational power of GPUs from different perspectives, as our target operations possess diverse features: streaming operators favoured on GPUs, recursive procedures easier on CPUs, memory intensive kernels with assorted access patterns (requiring considerable programming effort to fully exploit the memory hierarchy), matrix operators demanding sustainable bandwidth, and mathematical functions with remarkable arithmetic intensity on ALUs and FPUs. Experimental results are compared among different GPU strategies and versus a multicore CPU implementation, leading to varying amounts of execution time speedup up to 500x on a low-cost platform recruited for high-performance computing like the commodity GeForce 8 from Nvidia.