bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Constraint Models for Parallel Planning: The Novel Transition Scheme
Authors: Barták Roman
Published: February 2025

Parallel planning deals with the problem of finding a sequence of sets of independent actions such that the traditional plan is obtained by ordering actions in these sets. Parallel plans are frequently used by planners based on transformation of the planning problem to a different solving formalism such as SAT (Boolean satisfiability) or CP (Constraint Programming). In this paper we propose a modification of the constraint model for parallel planning based on different encoding of action transitions. Rather than encoding states and their changes via actions, we suggest to encode directly transitions between the actions and omit completely the state variables. This novel encoding improved significantly the runtime of the planner due to faster inference which is demonstrated experimentally using planning domains from International Planning Competition.
A computational model for linguistic complexity
Authors: Blache Philippe
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an approach contributing to the evaluation of linguistic complexity. Many different studies address this question. However, it remains very difficult to propose a precise evaluation on the basis of quantifiable criteria. The model we propose answers to this need thanks to an original representation of linguistic information by means of constraints. It brings together different complexity factors, coming from linguistic, psycholinguistic and computational domains.
Virtual Reality Exposure on Nicotine Craving
Authors: Gamito Pedro  , Oliveira Jorge  , Baptista André  , Pereira Edgar  , Morais Diogo  , Saraiva Tomaz  , Santos Nuno  , Soares Fábio
Published: February 2025

Several forms of treatment for nicotine dependence that combine the classical smoking cessation strategies with new Virtual Reality (VR) exposure techniques to smoking-related cues are in development. In this line, the main goal of our study was to develop a virtual platform in order to induce cravings in smokers. Sixty undergraduate students were randomly assigned to two different virtual environments (high-arousal cues and low-arousal cues). Both environments were based on a three-room apartment with commercial music playing and virtual characters interacting in a social event. The assessment was carried out before and after exposure through psychophysiological activation and self-report data for craving and nicotine dependence levels. No statistical differences were observed between smokers and non-smokers in psychophysiological activation. As far as self-report data is concerned, smokers revealed a significant increase in craving after the VR exposure to high arousal environments. Overall results were in line with previous studies suggesting the use of virtual environments as a tool for the existing smoking cessation programs.
A Comparison of Text and Technology Based Training Tools to Improve Cognitive Skills in Older Adults
Authors: Power Kevin  , Kirwan Grainne  , Palmer Marion
Published: February 2025

Research has indicated that use of cognitive skills training tools can produce positive benefits with older adults. However, little research has compared the efficacy of technology-based interventions and more traditional, text-based interventions which are also available. This study aimed to investigate cognitive skills improvements experienced by 40 older adults using cognitive skills training tools. A Solomon 4 group design was employed to determine which intervention demonstrated the greatest improvement. Participants were asked to use the interventions for 5-10 minutes per day, over a period of 60 days. Pre and post-tests consisted of measures of numerical ability, self-reported memory and intelligence. Following training, older adults indicated significant improvements on numerical ability and intelligence regardless of intervention type. No improvement in selfreported memory was observed. This research provides a critical appraisal of brain training tools and can help point the way for future improvements in the area. Brain training improvements could lead to improved quality of life, and perhaps, have financial and independent living ramifications for older adults.
Effects of Compaction on Engineering Properties of Residual Soils of Tete – Mozambique
Authors: Quadros Carlos  , Ndimbo Raphael
Published: February 2025

Several samples of residual base course material were studied to investigate the effects of compaction on their physical and mechanical properties. Test results of compaction and CBR obtained for borrow pit material are compared with repeatedly used soil samples from the road. From analysis of changes of strength of materials before, during and after construction, and also site observations, it is recommended to establish not only the minimum requirements for compaction density, but also the maximum density. Some guidelines are discussed for control of the level of compaction at the site.
Suggested Improvements in Site Investigation and Numerical Characterization Procedures for House Foundation Design
Authors: Pidgeon John Terry  , Govender Rachael
Published: February 2025

Current geotechnical investigation practice in South Africa should at least be carried out in accordance with GFSH-2 which dictates the frequency of test pits and soil samples per hectare. Very many geotechnical reports have been studied and the laboratory test results both plotted on ternary charts and contoured using a ‘minimum curvature’ technique. This investigation has revealed a number of shortcomings in current practice, and these are as follows:
Contraintes géotechniques associées à la Construction de la Deuxième Piste de l'Aérodrome d'Oran en Algérie
Authors: Rodrigues Vicente  , Roldão Mário  , Silva António
Published: February 2025

L'emprise de construction de la deuxième piste de l'aérodrome d'Oran fut essentiellement composée par la réalisation d'une piste de 3000 m de long, le prolongement ouest de 600 m de la piste existante, ainsi que par la construction de plusieurs zones de parking et de voies de circulation d'accès aux pistes. Les terrains de l'aérodrome avoisinant le grand lac d'Oran présentent des conditions géotechniques tout à fait particulières dans la mesure où la nappe phréatique est très proche de la surface et les dépôts quaternaires qui composent la fondation sont essentiellement des argiles gypseuses, sols qui présentent de nombreuses cavités qui se forment en raison de la dissolution du gypse suite au contact avec l'eau. Il s'agit d'un phénomène endémique de formations de cavités, quelques-unes ayant de grandes dimensions et avec plusieurs ramifications. Un total d'environ 200 cavités fut rencontré, ce qui a obligé à que le projet d'exécution et les travaux adoptent la mise en place de plusieurs dispositions constructives pour assurer d'adéquates conditions de fondation. Une particulière mise en évidence est donnée à la stratégie de détection de cavités, à son comblement et scellage, ainsi qu'au dimensionnement d'une structure de chaussée adaptée aux sollicitations aéronautiques. Dans le cadre du marché, l'Entreprise était également tenue d'assurer un contrôle moyennant la réalisation d'essais et de mesures de qualité en cours de chantier. Un aperçu est donné sur l'activité de l'unité d'auto-contrôle qui fut la responsable par le suivi et réalisation de plus de 17000 essais de contrôle sur les sols, agrégats et couches bitumineuses.
The Dynamic Probe Super Heavy penetrometer and its correlation with the Standard Penetration Test
Authors: Harrison Brian  , A'Bear Tony
Published: February 2025

The Dynamic Probe Super Heavy (DPSH) is widely used in Southern Africa as an aid for geotechnical investigations. Little information, however, is available on the interpretation of data recovered from it for quantitative design purposes. The Standard Penetration Test (SPT), on the other hand, has been extensively researched and much literature is available both locally and internationally for geotechnical design and analysis employing data from it. This paper attempts to establish a relationship between the DPSH and SPT tests in an attempt to make better use of the information obtained from the DPSH penetrometer.
The Effective Porosity Paradigm and the Implications on Empirical Permeability Estimations
Authors: Dippenaar Matthys A.  , Van Rooy J. Louis
Published: February 2025

Porosity can generally be subdivided into soil material or texture and soil mass or structure, ranging over macro-scale and influencing the complete profile to submicro-scale. A number of empirical grading-based approaches used widely relate porosity to the uniformity coefficient and subsequently the grain size representing the finest 60% and 10% of the sample respectively. Methods such as these, however, clearly do not acknowledge two important aspects: (1) effective porosity is required for flow and is influenced by soil structure; an undisturbed sample will therefore not suffice in adequately describing the interconnected pore spaces, and (2) one sample is typically confined to a fairly small amount of material from one soil horizon and the scale of investigation is therefore limited and does not include larger structures or erosion features which may serve as pathways of more rapid flow, thereby increasing the seepage parameters based on the estimated porosity. This paper aims to address some of the problems pertaining to estimate porosity η, effective porosity ηe and the importance of better evaluation techniques. Hydraulic conductivity and intrinsic permeability are often calculated as a function of some constant, a porosity function and an effective grain size dewhere deis often preselected (usually as equal to d10or the median grain size d50). However, during this ongoing work it was found that this value should vary for soils of different texture, but that the effective grain sizes corresponding to these d-values remain fairly constant and is almost independent of soil type. Calculation of conductivity and permeability are, therefore, influenced significantly by assumptions in porosity estimates and need to be addressed.
A Pilot Study on Understanding the Journey of Advanced Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Wagholikar Amol  , Fung Maggie  , Nelson Colleen
Published: February 2025

Objective: To understand the journey of advanced prostate cancer patients for supporting development of an innovative patient journey browser. Background: Prostate cancer is one of the common cancers in Australia. Due to the chronic nature of the disease, it is important to have effective disease management strategy and care model. Multi-disciplinary care is a well-proven approach for chronic disease management. The Multi-disciplinary team (MDT) can function more effectively if all the required information is available for the clinical decision support. The development of innovative technology relies on an accurate understanding of the advanced prostate cancer patient's journey over a prolonged period. This need arises from the fact that advanced prostate cancer patients may follow various treatment paths and change their care providers. As a result of this, it is difficult to understand the actual sources of patient's clinical records and their treatment patterns. The aim of the research is to understand variable sources of clinical records, treatment patterns, alternative therapies, over the counter (OTC) medications of advanced prostate cancer patients. This study provides better and holistic understanding of advanced prostate cancer journey.
Patient Journey Modelling: Using Students as a Vehicle for the Diffusion of Innovation
Authors: Curry J.M.  , Fitzgerald J.A.  , Eljiz K.
Published: February 2025

This paper describes a case study involving third-year undergraduate computing students and their conduct of a patient journey modeling project for the Ambulatory Care department of a Regional Hospital in New South Wales, Australia. The goal of the research was to determine if students, given minimal training in an emerging patient journey modeling tool known as Essomenic, could be an effective vehicle for the diffusion of innovation to operational staff involved in a healthcare improvement project. Under academic supervision, students interacted directly with staff to develop models of the current system of care from GP referral to the completion of the patient consultation. The methodology also included model validation, identification of opportunities for improvement, investigation of alternative solutions and solution recommendations. Outcomes of the project, conducted over a 14 week semester, demonstrate that the students found the technique quick and easy to learn and that they could transfer their new found knowledge of this innovation to healthcare staff for the purposes of developing true and accurate representations of the current state patient journey. Staff were then able to interact directly with the student team, using the models as a communication medium, to identify opportunities for improvement and understand more deeply, how changes would impact their daily tasks and increase patient satisfaction in service delivery.
ICT-based Visual Interventions Addressing Social Isolation for the Aged
Authors: Duong Cynthia  , Maeder Anthony  , Chang Esther
Published: February 2025

This paper describes an approach of “visual interventions” to address the effects of social isolation imposed by independent living on the aged. This approach might be effective in situations where it is not possible to provide enough human contact or interaction to stimulate and sustain a positive outlook by the aged person. Two ICT-based visual interventions using this approach are described: a virtual “picture album” concept which can serve as a basis for positive reminiscence, and a virtual “daily assistant” concept to provide advice and reminders on health aspects encountered during daily living. A methodological approach for validating these concepts is also described.
A Student-Centred Electronic Health Record System for Clinical Education
Authors: Elliott Kristine  , Judd Terry  , Mccoll Geoff
Published: February 2025

Introduction. Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems are an increasingly important feature of the national healthcare system [1]. However, little research has investigated the impact this will have on medical students' learning. As part of an innovative technology platform for a new masters level program in medicine, we are developing a student-centred EHR system for clinical education. A prototype was trialed with medical students over several weeks during 2010. This paper reports on the findings of the trial, which had the overall aim of assisting our understanding of how trainee doctors might use an EHR system for learning and communication in a clinical setting.
Use of an Electronic Clinical Experience Portal for the Education of Nurses in a Critical Care Unit
Authors: Farrell Maureen  , Baldwin Ian  , Fealy Nigel
Published: February 2025

This paper examines a clinical experience portal (CEP) that was developed for critical care nurses to access on a personal digital assistant (PDA) while undertaking a 12-month postgraduate program. The increasing complexity of care provided to patients in intensive care units (ICU) in Australia and overseas requires that health care practitioners working in this area are competent and highly skilled, to prevent errors and adverse events. The CEP – unlike the traditional approach which is often lacking, antiquated or encompassed in paper records – provides opportunity for collaborative activities to occur between the learner and the teacher in an auditable environment to enhance the quality of the education provided. The CEP provided a method for the nurses to record their competencies and access educational material within the framework of a postgraduate program. The benefits of using the CEP for the education of all healthcare professionals' are also discussed.
Exploiting Modularity for Ontology Verification
Authors: Grüninger Michael  , Hahmann Torsten  , Katsumi Megan
Published: February 2025

Within knowledge representation, ontologies are logical theories that support software integration and decision support systems. Ontology verification is concerned with the relationship between the intended structures for an ontology and the models of the axiomatization of the ontology. To verify a particular ontology, we ideally characterize all the models of the ontology up to elementary equivalence and prove that these models are equivalent to the intended structures for the ontology. In this paper, we investigate the use of automated theorem provers and model finders to assist in the interactive verification of first-order ontologies. We identify the reasoning tasks that are associated with different aspects of ontology verification and discuss challenges for the application of automated reasoning systems to support these tasks.
Preventing Internal Erosion Phenomena with the BioGrout process
Authors: Van M.A.  , van den Ham G.A.  , Blauw M.  , Latil M.  , Benahmed N.  , Philippe P.
Published: February 2025

Internal erosion, among which backward erosion and suffusion, consists of the displacement of soil particles, originating from an embankment or its foundation. In case of flooding, the high head of water can induce piping across a dike, which may finally lead to a breach and inundation of the hinterland. In urban areas structures are often part of the flood defence system and internal erosion phenomena in the interface between dike and structure may occur. The BioGrout process is a biotechnological process in which loose sand is turned into sand stone and this technology can be a new measure for preventing internal erosion. BioGrout may prevent internal erosion by cementing the grains to each other while the permeability is hardly influenced. The main goal of the research described in this paper is to evaluate the suitability of BioGrout as internal erosion prevention technique. Therefore the process and research of BioGrout material is described, the influence of BioGrout on the internal erosion phenomena is studied and the minimum strength improvement, with respect to erosion, has been assessed by hole erosion tests. It was concluded that BioGrout is a feasible measure for retrofitting structures and mitigating (potential) internal erosion problems.
Large-scale cyclic triaxial tests for the seismic safety assessment of a high earth-core rockfill dam
Authors: Messerklinger S.  , Straubhaar R.  , Brenner R.P.  , Herzog R.  , Laue J.  , Springman S.M.
Published: February 2025

Static and cyclic triaxial tests on isotropically and anisotropically consolidated specimens of core and filter/rockfill material, with diameters between 228 and 308 mm, were performed to determine parameters for the earthquake response analysis of the existing 155 m high Goescheneralp earth core-rockfill dam in Switzerland in its present state, and also after heightening it by 8 m. The analysis included a 2D equivalent linear response analysis using the FE-method and the assessment of stability using Newmark's block sliding method. The resulting displacements of selected blocks along the crest are within about 0.5 to 1.0 m, which is an acceptable range. Hence, the Goescheneralp dam was assessed to be safe against the relevant seismic events.
Scottish road network landslides study: management and mitigation
Authors: Winter M.G.  , Macgregor F.  , Shackman L.  , Edmond G.
Published: February 2025

The Scottish debris flow events of August 2004 followed rainfall substantially in excess of the norm: up to 300% of the 30 monthly average with storm intensities of up to 150mm/hour. Where these intersected the trunk (strategic) road network the social and economic impacts were severe, in particular the severance of access to and from relatively remote communities. While there were no major injuries, 57 people were airlifted to safety at Glen Ogle. A study was commissioned by Transport Scotland with the overall purpose of ensuring that the hazards posed by debris flows were systematically assessed and ranked allowing the future effects of debris flow events to be appropriately managed and mitigated as budgets permit, thus ensuring that the exposure of road users to the consequences of future events is minimised. This paper describes the approach to management and mitigation. Exposure reduction is the main action with the approach based upon the detection of events and notification of the appropriate authorities to enable them to take appropriate action (DNA). This paper, in addition to describing the principles developed, describes the actions taken at a network level and trial and longer-term/permanent actions at a site of particularly high risk.
The instrumentation of parameters of thermal radiation and of acoustic emission as a source of information concerning the processes of deformation of soft rock specimens
Authors: Sheinin V.I.  , Blokhin D.I.  , Favorov A.V.
Published: February 2025

The paper describes the testing of rock salt samples for monotonic loading under uniaxial compression, which was carried out with synchronous recording of changes of acoustic emission (AE), infrared radiation (IR) and strain parameters. The purpose of the work – to justify the effectiveness of techniques developed in NIIOSP for complex geomaterials deformation processes diagnostic with respect to the considered type of soft rock. The obtained results show that the techniques may be a useful part in the system of in-situ monitoring of the geomechanical events.
Mechanical behaviour of disintegrated rockfill
Authors: Kast K.
Published: February 2025

An important factor of the material behaviour of rockfill is the influence of the disintegration of the rock grains, caused by geological processes. With the help of appropriate test methods, it is possible to c1assify rock materials with regard to the micro-mechanical as well as the chemical degree of disintegration. Investigations in the field of rockfill technology of three selected types of granite material, covering the range of variations, from fresh to severely decomposed rock, provided quantitative information regarding the influence of the geological degree of disintegration on the mechanical properties of the fills. In addition to fundamental results regarding the different conditions in the stress-strain behaviour of dry and water-saturated materials, findings related to the influence of precompaction were also obtained. In this case it was important to be able to produce realistic rockfill samples by using suitable testing apparatus with sample diameters up to 800 mm.
Stiffness parameters for a deep tunnel – Developing a robust parameter selection framework
Authors: Eadington J.  , O'Brien A.S.
Published: February 2025

There are a number of challenges in developing appropriate non-linear stiffness parameters for practical design purposes. This paper outlines a proposed framework which enables a wide range of different data types to be utilised, in order to assess representative site specific parameters based on Atkinson's [2] non-linear stiffness model. This model can be described by four key parameters, which can be derived from a range of laboratory and field test methods. These parameters can be further supported by a number of empirical relationships to give confidence in the values selected. The framework is supported by its comparison with advanced triaxial tests carried out on high quality, hand cut block samples of two different stiff natural clays. The application of the framework to a back analysis of a sprayed concrete lined tunnel is shown to give improved estimates of behaviour compared to observations.
An investigation of a rock socketed pile with an integral bearing plate founded over weak rock
Authors: Arshi S.  , Stone K.J.L.
Published: February 2025

Current offshore technology is being transferred successfully to the renewable energy sector but there is clearly scope to develop foundation systems which are more efficient, economic and satisfactory for the particular case of a wind turbine. One such approach is that foundation systems are developed which combine several foundation elements to create a ‘hybrid’ system. In this way it may be possible to develop a foundation system which is more efficient for the combination of vertical and lateral loads associated with wind turbines. In many of the proposed offshore European wind farms sites, it is often the case that the surficial seabed deposits are underlain by a weak rock. This paper presents the results of a series of small scale single gravity tests to investigate the performance of a monopile and combined monopiled and bearing plate foundation where the pile is socketed into a weak rock. In the model studies the weak rock layer is modelled by a weak sand and gypsum mix. The results of the study provide an insight into the effect of the various foundation elements (i.e. pile, plate and rock socket) and their contribution to the overall performance of the foundation system.
A new method for the evaluation of the ultimate load of piles by tests not carried to failure
Authors: Dalerci G.  , Bovolenta R.
Published: February 2025

A new method for the evaluation of the ultimate limit load of piles by tests not carried to failure is proposed. By a proper use of experimental results, it allows for a complete analysis of piles behaviour. In fact, the total, shaft and base load-settlement curves can be evaluated. It can be applied when shaft friction is fully mobilized during the test.
Building the Technical Infrastructure to Support a Study on Drug Safety in a General Hospital
Authors: Kirchner Melanie  , Bürkle Thomas  , Patapovas Andrius  , Mathews Anja  , Sojer Reinhold  , Müller Fabian  , Dormann Harald  , Maas Renke  , Prokosch Hans-Ulrich
Published: February 2025

We describe reorganization steps and the required technical infrastructure to support a multidisciplinary research project aimed at improving the safety of drug therapy in an emergency department (ED) of a community hospital. Assessment of drug safety required consolidation of data from various sources in a single source approach. We solved this by transferring digital data from the hospital information system (HIS) and attached clinical systems into a pseudonymized study database (secuTrial), which is also used as a web based data capturing tool to rate drug associated risk situations, extended by a technical extension for dynamic upload of further data. Paper-based documentation in the ED was digitized using a digital pen technology.
Evaluation of a Hyperlinked Consumer Health Dictionary for Reading EHR Notes
Authors: Slaughter Laura  , Øyri Karl  , Fosse Erik
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we report on a pilot study conducted to test the usefulness and understandability of definitions in a Consumer Health Dictionary (IVS-CHD). Our two main goals for this study were to evaluate functionality of the dictionary when embedded in electronic health records (EHR) and determine the methodology for our larger-scale project to iteratively develop the IVS-CHD. The hyperlinked IVS-CHD was made available to thoracic surgery patients reading their own EHR. We asked patients to rate definitions on two 5-level Likert items measuring perceived usefulness and understandability. We also captured the terms that patients wanted defined, but that were not included in the IVS-CHD. Preliminary results indicate the types of problems that must be avoided when creating definitions, for example, that patients prefer detailed explanations that include medical outcomes, and that do not use “unfamiliar” terms they must also look up. We also have gained insight into the types of terms that patients want defined from their EHR notes, especially certain abbreviations. Patients further commented on the experience of reading EHR notes directly from the same system used by healthcare personnel and the help strategy of linking the contents to a hyperlinked dictionary.
A Multi-method Study of Factors Associated with Hospital Information System Success in South Africa
Authors: Hanmer Lyn A.  , Isaacs Sedick  , Roode J. Dewald
Published: February 2025

A combination of interpretivist and positivist techniques was used to develop and refine a conceptual model of factors associated with computerised hospital information system (CHIS) success in South Africa. Data from three case studies of CHIS use in level 2 public sector hospitals were combined to develop a conceptual model containing seven factors associated with CHIS success at hospital level. This conceptual model formed the basis of a fourth case study which aimed to confirm and refine the initial conceptual model. In the third phase of the study, a survey of CHIS use was conducted in 30 hospitals across two South African provinces, each using one of three different CHISs. Relationships between hospital-level factors of the conceptual model and user assessment of CHIS success were examined. A revised conceptual model of CHIS use was developed on the basis of the survey results. The use of a multi-method approach made it possible to generalise results from the case studies to multiple CHIS implementations in two provinces.
Developing a Model for the Adequate Description of Electronic Communication in Hospitals
Authors: Saboor Samrend  , Ammenwerth Elske
Published: February 2025

Adequate information and communication systems (ICT) can help to improve the communication in hospitals. Changes to the ICT-infrastructure of hospitals must be planed carefully. In order to support a comprehensive planning, we presented a classification of 81 common errors of the electronic communication on the MIE 2008 congress. Our objective now was to develop a data model that defines specific requirements for an adequate description of electronic communication processes We first applied the method of explicating qualitative content analysis on the error categorization in order to determine the essential process details. After this, we applied the method of subsuming qualitative content analysis on the results of the first step. A data model for the adequate description of electronic communication. This model comprises 61 entities and 91 relationships. The data model comprises and organizes all details that are necessary for the detection of the respective errors. It can be for either used to extend the capabilities of existing modeling methods or as a basis for the development of a new approach.
ACGT: Advancing Clinico-genomic trials on cancer – Four years of experience
Authors: Martin Luis  , Anguita Alberto  , Graf Norbert  , Tsiknakis Manolis  , Brochhausen Mathias  , Rüping Stefan  , Bucur Anca  , Sfakianakis Stelios  , Sengstag Thierry  , Buffa Francesca  , Stenzhorn Holger
Published: February 2025

The challenges regarding seamless integration of distributed, heterogeneous and multilevel data arising in the context of contemporary, post-genomic clinical trials cannot be effectively addressed with current methodologies. An urgent need exists to access data in a uniform manner, to share information among different clinical and research centers, and to store data in secure repositories assuring the privacy of patients. Advancing Clinico-Genomic Trials (ACGT) was a European Commission funded Integrated Project that aimed at providing tools and methods to enhance the efficiency of clinical trials in the -omics era. The project, now completed after four years of work, involved the development of both a set of methodological approaches as well as tools and services and its testing in the context of real-world clinico-genomic scenarios. This paper describes the main experiences using the ACGT platform and its tools within one such scenario and highlights the very promising results obtained.
What is the Coverage of SNOMED CT®on Scientific Medical Corpora?
Authors: Kokkinakis Dimitrios
Published: February 2025

This paper reports on the results of a large scale mapping of SNOMED CT on scientific medical corpora. The aim is to automatically access the validity, reliability and coverage of the Swedish SNOMED-CT translation, the largest, most extensive available resource of medical terminology. The method described here is based on the generation of predominantly safe harbor term variants which together with simple linguistic processing and the already available SNOMED term content are mapped to large corpora. The results show that term variations are very frequent and this may have implication on technological applications (such as indexing and information retrieval, decision support systems, text mining) using SNOMED CT. Naïve approaches to terminology mapping and indexing would critically affect the performance, success and results of such applications. SNOMED CT appears not well-suited for automatically capturing the enormous variety of concepts in scientific corpora (only 6,3% of all SNOMED terms could be directly matched to the corpus) unless extensive variant forms are generated and fuzzy and partial matching techniques are applied with the risk of allowing the recognition of a large number of false positives and spurious results.
Research Management in Healthcare Informatics — Experiences from Norway
Authors: Faxvaag Arild  , Toussaint Pieter  , Johansen Trond S.
Published: February 2025

This paper reports on the experiences with establishing a multidisciplinary healthcare informatics research community at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim, Norway. A multidisciplinary research group in healthcare informatics must maintain strong connections to computer science, social science, biomedicine and healthcare researchers. Those organizing the research must create a milieu that fosters true collaboration across disciplines. The researchers must have good access to healthcare institutions, to healthcare professionals as well as to patients. A healthcare informatics laboratory creates an arena for experiments as well as for validation of health-it technologies.
Problems of building and designing on semi-rocky soils
Authors: Sursanov D.  , Sytchkina E.
Published: February 2025

Building and designing on semi-rocky soils is problematic for many countries in the world. In particular, in Russia the problems of building on semi-rocky soils are not given clearly enough in national construction norms and standards. There is a necessity to analyse strength and deformation properties of semi-rocky soils, to work out the theory of interaction between a deep base and semi-rocky soils, and to develop a mathematical model of “deep base – semi-rocky ground” interaction. In that paper some results of static load soil test are presented. The possibility of the use of lower Permian soils as the end-bearing pile base within the bounds of a particular case was confirmed.
Centrifuge Modeling of Rainfall-Induced Layered Soil Slope Failure
Authors: Wang Rui  , Zhang Ga  , Zhang Jianmin
Published: February 2025

Centrifuge modeling of rainfall induced failure of layered soil slope consisting of sand and clay layers was achieved to study the deformation, failure and suction change patterns of such slopes during rainfall. Retrogressive failure in the slope was observed during the experiment. Analysis on the deformation characteristics of the slope showed that the shear zone was more concentrated in the sand zone than in clay, and the sliding surface in the sand layer developed outside the shear zone due to the deformation in the clay layer. Though soil suction in both layers exhibited significant decrease during rainfall, the decrease occurred much earlier and faster in the sand layer. Suction decrease and strain increase occurred simultaneously in the clay layer but not in the sand layer.
Relevance of small-strain stiffness in the deformation analysis of navigable locks
Authors: Stelzer O.  , Kauther R.
Published: February 2025

In the planning process for new and the maintenance of existing waterway structures, such as navigable locks, deformation analyses play an important role. Nowadays new locks are often built close to existing locks or other deformation sensitive structures, what leads to soil-structure-interaction related issues to be analyzed. Therefore, the finite element method is applied to model the structures involved and the ground they are embedded in. For two different lock projects the relevance of small-strain stiffness for such analyses was examined using an extension of the Hardening Soil model that accounts for a higher stiffness at small strains.
Modelling the behaviour of a retaining wall monitored during the excavation for a deep station in Metro do Porto, Porto, Portugal
Authors: Quintela João Rodrigo  , Viana da Fonseca António
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a modelling approach to fit the observed behaviour of a retaining wall in the station of Aliados, one of the deepest “cut and cover” excavations of Metro do Porto, Portugal. This work, with unusual proportions (in plant and in depth), was built in the typical weathered profiles of Porto city, and the excavation was carried out in a multi-phased sequence relying on active retaining walls, constituted by multi-anchored concrete piles' wall. The construction was accompanied by a thorough monitoring system due to the presence of historic buildings nearby. A particular section was hereby selected in order to define representative model parameters based on in situ tests and laboratory tests over high quality samples, to fit the results of a set of precise instrumentation. A specific geotechnical and geological characterization of the all area where the station was placed, based on SPT, is presented, making reference to the experience of this type of soil characterization that can be found in previous work. The definition of input parameters for the constitutive modelling, taking into account the demands of the used FEM numerical code, was the results of oedometer and high-precision triaxial tests over high quality samples collected in the course of the excavation. The commercial software Plaxis®was used for verification of the input parameters for constitutive laws under the Mohr-Coulomb and “Hardening-Soil” models in a multi-phased numerical simulation.
Effect of particle breakage and strain path reversal on the properties of sands located near to driven piles
Authors: Altuhafi Fatin  , Jardine Richard J.
Published: February 2025

Model pile experiments indicate that grain crushing beneath the bases of piles driven in sand contribute to marked stress relaxation developing immediately above the advancing pile tips. This paper reports stress path triaxial tests that investigate how these processes modify the sand's mechanical behaviour. Specimens of the sand employed by Yang et al (2010) for pile experiments were subjected first to intense active compression. Stress and strain path reversals were then imposed, following a range of stress paths. The final stages involved reshearing the specimens to failure in either drained compression or extension under greatly reduced mean effective stresses.
Effects of compaction and cement content on the strength and yielding characteristics of cement-mixed granular soil
Authors: Ezaoui A.  , Tatsuoka F.  , Sasaki Y.  , Furusawa S.  , Arakawa K.
Published: February 2025

Effects of dry density and cement content on the strength and yielding characteristics of moist cement-mixed gravelly soil (CMG) were evaluated by a series of drained triaxial compression tests. Two cement contents (c/g= 2.5% & 4.0% by granular material weight) and two dry densities were employed. Peak strength and elastic properties were evaluated for a curing period from one week up to 6 months. The effect of compaction on the peak strength was significant via better interlocking among particles by a decrease in the porosity and better bonding by an increase in the ratio of the cement volume in the void. An empirical equation to predict the strength at a given time and given cement content and dry density is proposed. On the (p', q) plane, the yield locus (YL) that defines the start of large-scale yielding expands with time by curing at a given stress state. The YL for a given loading history becomes larger with an increase in the cement content and dry density. The shape of YLs located far below the peak strength line has a closed shape that can be approximated by a constant vertical stress line.
Characteristics of composite ground improved by recycled-aggregate porous concrete pile
Authors: Kim Sewon  , You Seung-Kyong  , Lee Chulho  , Choi Hangseok
Published: February 2025

In this study, a series of laboratory chamber tests was carried out to evaluate the applicability of a porous concrete pile fabricated with recycled aggregates for soft ground improvement. The recycled-aggregate porous concrete pile (RAPP) has been developed to replace for natural aggregates and to overcome technical problems associated with the conventional compaction piling systems. The laboratory chamber tests for evaluating the performance of RAPP were carried out with a cylindrical mold of 280mm in internal diameter and 580mm in height. A replacement area ratio of 5% and three different loading steps were applied in the chamber tests. The experimental results of the surface settlement, excess pore pressure and vertical stress distribution versus time were compared with those of the sand compaction pile (SCP) reinforced composite ground under the same experimental condition. The current study shows that the settlement reduction in the RAPP-reinforced system is significantly enhanced due to load transfer from the soil formation to the RAPP. Furthermore, the comparison of consolidation rate shows that the RAPP can also accelerate the consolidation of soft clay formation because the RAPP behaves as a vertical drain.
Modified MVC-design Patterns for Service Oriented Applications
Authors: Rajam Sidhant  , Cortez Ruth  , Vazhenin Alexander  , Bhalla Subhash
Published: February 2025

Due to the Internet advancement, more applications are being developed over heterogeneous technologies and platforms. Thereby, reusability and interoperability are the important aspects for developing and exposing the computational services. That is why the Enterprise Application Integration is an important aspect in order to leverage high reusability and interoperability among disparate applications and services. Pattern based design is an effective way to avoid an expensive process of reinventing, rediscovering as well as revalidating agnostic software artifacts. In this paper, we are proposing a modification of the traditional Model-View-Controller (MVC) design pattern and exploring other composite patterns for an efficient integration of the applications and services. The key point is that the demarcation of a Functional (View) and an Implementation (Model) task can be achieved deliberately by inducing an Integrator (Controller). The Controller capabilities can be significantly enriched by encapsulating certain Non-Functional activities such as security, reliability, scalability, and routing of request. This enhancement enables the separation of Integration Logic from Functional Logic (Client Application) and Implementation Logic (Service). In our approach, the Controller can be considered as the compound design pattern of the Enterprise Service Bus (ESB). To demonstrate how the modified MVC pattern can be used for developing heterogeneous software environment, we are developing an e-Learning Computational Cloud (eLC2) software environment. This paper discusses the peculiarities of the modified MVC design patterns, main components of system architecture as well as how integration of the software components is realized by using the Dependency Injection pattern to achieve higher reusability and interoperability of Service Oriented applications.
Knowledge Engineering: Structural View
Authors: Gavrilova Tatiana
Published: February 2025

The talk presents author's view on main trends in modern knowledge engineering (KT) and teaching of KE. The teaching framework is targeted on the development of skills that will allow facilitating the process of knowledge elicitation and structuring for intelligent systems design and development. The role of ontologies is underlined.
Practical Aspects of Handling Data Protection and Data Security
Authors: Louwerse C.P.
Published: February 2025

Looking at practical applications of health care information systems, we must conclude that in the field of data protection there still is too large a gap between what is feasible and necessary on one hand, and what is achieved in actual realizations on the other.
HIPACS: Hospital Integrated Picture Archiving and Communication Systems
Authors: Mattheus R.  , Osteaux M.  , Bakker A.  , Bell D.  , Orphanoudakis S.  , Meyer-Ebrecht D.  , Van De Velde R.  , Wein B.  , Wendler T.
Published: February 2025

Reasons are given for the little clinical successes the first generation of PACS had known. It has become clear that the next generation of PACS should be integrated with the HIS or RIS. The enormous amounts of data to be transported put specific requirements on network management. Distributed data-bases will be essential. Adaptive user interface will facilitate the use by and the communication between several types of professional users. The HIPACS project studied the aspects and concluded that we are moving from a development driven by technology towards a approach based on the embedding of medical information in the systems.
PRECISE
Authors: Engelbrecht R.  , Hildebrand C.  , Stürer B.  , Nieman H.  , Timmers T.
Published: February 2025

The project PRECISE (PRospects for an Extramural and Clinical Information System Environment) concerned a joint exploratory feasibility study based on three proposals from different consortia for projects in the AIM Exploratory Action. PRECISE aimed at developing medical workstations for different medical professionals in different health care areas, and explored different methods to gather information on the necessities of medical workstations. In each of the subprojects methods were either being developed or existing methods were tested or enhanced which will be exploited in future research or commercial enterprises. PRECISE could specify the major requirements for the design of a European Consulting Room System as well as a Hospital and Ward Information System. These specifications will provide the basis for industrial and research exploitation.
CAMAC: Case based Hospital Management and Clinical Evaluation
Authors: Rodrigues J.M.  , Catterall J.  , Hofdijk J.  , Polton D.  , Clough J.  , Boettcher C.  , Wiley M.
Published: February 2025

The CAMAC project developed framework systems supporting both clinical and hospital management and laid the foundation for a common language relating resource use and clinical evaluation.
QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF MOTOR FUNCTIONS IN PATIENTS WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE
Authors: SMANIA N.  , BONAZZI A.  , CORTESE F.  , FIASCHI A.  , PICOTTI P.M.
Published: February 2025

The isokinetic test is usually used in Orthopedic and Sports Medicine for an objective evaluation of multiple parameters regarding muscle function. The application of this method has only recently been widened to include neurological pathologies (Multiple Sclerosis, Strokes). At present there are very few studies regarding the use of isokinetic in the evaluation of motor function in Parkinson’s Disease (P.D.)(3,4).
1.3 Medical Information Processing - The BAIK Model
Authors: GIERE Wolfgang
Published: February 2025

At the German Heart Institute Berlin the introduction of information technology to clinical practice went an unusual way. Instead of serving the administration exclusively, the first thing computerized was the patient admission, the medical documentation and text processing. This is important to note because it is the medical documentation that contains or causes almost all data, that will later on be used for administration purposes. Medical documentation however sets many more obstacles in the way to computerization than administrative applications. To overcome these problems the BAIK system is used. More than 2000 catheter and 3500 surgery procedures documented each year with BAIK prove the viability of the system for day-to-day operations. That it is still used, despite the fact that it was designed in the sixties, makes a review of the original design criteria a learning experience for new developments in computer applications for medical documentation.