bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Results on the Algebraic Immunity of Boolean Functions
Authors: Rizomiliotis Panagiotis
Published: February 2025

The algebraic immunity AI(f) of a Boolean function f is defined as the minimum degree of all annihilators of f. The high value of algebraic immunity consists a necessary condition for Boolean functions used in stream ciphers to resist algebraic attacks. of the two values. In this paper, we introduce the notion of extended algebraic immunity(f) defined as the maximum of pAI(f) and pAI(f ⌖ 1), where pAI(f) is the minimum degree of all annihilators of f (pAI(f ⌖ 1) of f ⌖ 1 respectively). We introduce a lower bound of the r-th order nonlinearity of a Boolean function f with given AI(f) and(f). The bound is tighter than all known lower bounds, where only the algebraic immunity AI(f) is used. The value of(f) can be computed as part of the calculation of AI(f), with no extra computational cost.
Symbolic Dynamics, Codes, and Perfectly Balanced Functions
Authors: Logachev Oleg A.  , Salnikov Alexei A.  , Smyshlyaev Stanislav V.  , Yashchenko Valery V.
Published: February 2025

In the present paper we study properties of perfectly balanced Boolean functions. Based on the concept of Boolean function barrier, we propose a novel approach to construct large classes of perfectly balanced Boolean functions.
Applications of Near MDS Codes in Cryptography
Authors: Dodunekov Stefan
Published: February 2025

MDS codes are widely used in constructive coding theory. However some examples indicate that using non-MDS codes (but with parameters close to those of MDS codes) one can obtain better results. The application of the family of Near-MDS codes seems to be promising in various cryptographic problems.
A Peer-to-Peer Framework for Message Passing Parallel Programs
Authors: Genaud Stéphane  , Rattanapoka Choopan
Published: February 2025

This chapter describes the P2P-MPI project, a software framework aimed at the development of message-passing programs in large scale distributed networks of computers. Our goal is to provide a light-weight, self-contained software package that requires minimum effort to use and maintain. P2P-MPI relies on three features to reach this goal: i) its installation and use does not require administrator privileges, ii) available resources are discovered and selected for a computation without intervention from the user, iii) program executions can be fault-tolerant on user demand, in a completely transparent fashion (no checkpoint server to configure). P2P-MPI is typically suited for organizations having spare individual computers linked by a high speed network, possibly running heterogeneous operating systems, and having Java applications. From a technical point of view, the framework has three layers: an infrastructure management layer at the bottom, a middleware layer containing the services, and the communication layer implementing an MPJ (Message Passing for Java) communication library at the top. We explain the design and the implementation of these layers, and we discuss the allocation strategy based on network locality to the submitter. Allocation experiments of more than five hundreds peers are presented to validate the implementation. We also present how fault-management issues have been tackled. First, the monitoring of the infrastructure itself is implemented through the use of failure detectors. We theoretically evaluate several candidate protocols for these detectors to motivate our choice for the gossiping protocol called binary round robin. A variant of this protocol is also proposed for a greater reliability. Finally, the system scalability and the theoretical findings are validated through experiments. The second aspect of fault management concerns program executions. Fault-tolerance is provided by the communication library through replication of processes. We describe the underlying protocol and the properties that need to be met in order to insure the correctness of execution. We then discuss how to choose the number of replicas by quantifying how much more robust is an application using replication, depending on the failure model parameters.
Landscape Analysis in Adaptive Metaheuristics for Grid Computing
Authors: Tantar Emilia  , Tantar Alexandru-Adrian  , Melab Nouredine  , Talbi El-Ghazali
Published: February 2025

An ensemble of local search algorithms are discussed and analyzed, having different initial landscape perspectives as starting point - the conformational sampling problem is considered as a case study. Grid enabled hierarchical and multistage distributed evolutionary algorithms have been addressed in previous studies, combining complementary techniques and relying on different coordination models. For algorithmic constructions following the aforementioned outlines, the per se exploration results in an emergent behavior of the system. Nevertheless, in order to encompass a large spectrum of exploration characteristics and to harness the complete power of the combined techniques, landscape analysis has to be employed for guiding the exploration process. Due to the high complexity of real-life applications, landscape analysis represents a foreword measure in this direction, providing the means for adapting the exploration process as determined by the search landscape structure.
Perspectives on Community Involvement in Counter Terrorism
Authors: Ekici Sıddık  , Sahliyeh Emile
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides a summary of the competing perspectives presented at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Advanced Research Workshop (“Together against Terrorism: Building Terrorism Resistant Communities”) that convened in Washington D.C. on September 26–27, 2008.
Terrorism: Notes on a Communitarian Approach
Authors: Sadri Mahmoud
Published: February 2025

Europeans tend to approach the problem of terrorism as a communal problem while the American administrations treat it as a political one. Thus instrumental and organizational theories of terrorism lauded in the United States neglect the cultural dimension of the phenomenon. Research shows, however, that terrorism must be understood as a result of a radicalization of cultural norms and values prevalent in extremist “subcultures” as well. This means that terrorists succeed not only by distancing themselves from the community as individuals and organizations, but by linking themselves to it as enthusiastic champions of cultural aspirations. This essay outlines the general contours of a cultural approach to the phenomenon of terrorism and contrasts it to instrumental and organizational approaches.
Matching Incident Management Technologies and Human Factors for More Resilient Communities
Authors: Shalamanov Velizar  , Grossman Ira  , Winbourne Jeffrey
Published: February 2025

Deeper integration between various services dealing with civil security requires a new type of information and communications systems. At the same time, to a greater extent of importance is the community's involvement in providing a better environment for security forces to protect citizens and the infrastructure. The authors focus on matching new technologies with human factors – both in security organizations as well as from the community – in providing safety and security in a terroristic threatened environment. Although integrated security operation centers supported by system development and training centers do not comprise the only answer based on technology, they do represent a new tool for community building programs.
Achieving Resilience in Communities: Lessons Learned from Terrorist Attacks
Authors: Kolesnikova Lina
Published: February 2025

Although counter-terrorist agencies are faced with the dubious task of preventing and deterring terrorist attacks, inevitably, it is only a matter of time before terrorists will successfully strike again. Thus, management of post-event short-term aftermaths and long-term outcomes are at the forefront in fighting terrorism. Terrorist attack response management is crucial in maintaining public assurance of protection and survival. This article offers a framework that will approach the fundamental challenge of management in a structured way through formalizing its processes, inputs and outputs in an effort to provide a global picture that identifies the role and preparation that communities play. From the lessons learned from previous terrorist attacks, establishment of a strategic community resilience framework that will positively support response management in the short- and long-term recovery and thus, return lives to normalcy once again is presented.
Suggestion: Counter the Threat Together!
Authors: Ekici Ahmet  , Ekici Sıddık
Published: February 2025

The issues presented and discussed in the book covered various topics about terrorism. However, three primary issues received close attention: (1) terrorism and its causes, (2) organizational and structural approaches to terrorism and (3) civil society and counter terrorism operations. Reaching out to these topics was no mistake because if we want to go “Together Against Terrorism,” we must take a holistic approach in covering all corners and all issues that may help us better understand the threat.
The Proliferation of Chemical and Biological Weapons: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Tucker Jonathan B.
Published: February 2025

The number of states possessing or seeking chemical and biological (CB) weapons has declined in recent years because of increased adherence to the two international treaties banning these categories of arms. Nevertheless, the changing nature of warfare in the 21st century, combined with the dramatic advances in chemistry and the life sciences, could alter the perceived military utility of CB weapons. For this reason, it is vital to enhance the effectiveness of the CB disarmament treaties by strengthening their implementation at the national and international levels.
The Anticipated Role of Armed Forces Combating WMD Terrorism
Authors: Marinov Ivo
Published: February 2025

The threat of a WMD attack is quite real and requires comprehensive efforts to counter its usage. The policies enacted at the domestic and international level require a new outlook in the role of armed forces. This chapter outlines possible scenarios involving the use of WMD and tries to assess the role that the armed forces should play in combating WMD terrorism.
Additive Codes over F
Authors: Huffman W. Cary
Published: February 2025

We describe the theory for additive codes over F4that are either cyclic or have a permutation automorphism of odd prime order. We particularly consider those codes that are self-orthogonal or self-dual under the trace inner product.
Real and imaginary hyperelliptic curve cryptography - Aspects of curve cryptography
Authors: Stein Andreas
Published: February 2025

These lecture notes are based on a series of three lectures given at the NATO Advanced Study Institute on New Challenges in Digital Communications in Vlora, Albania, 2008. The goal is to provide an elementary approach to elliptic and hyperelliptic curve cryptography with emphasis on the underlying mathematical problems. The first lecture entitled “Computational number theory, cryptography, and curves” provides selected problems from basic cryptographic schemes and shows why cryptography and computational number theory are so intertwined. In the second lecture entitled “Some (new) attacks to the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem”, various attacks are presented and discussed. The last lecture is entitled “Real hyperelliptic curves”. It describes the use of hyperelliptic curves in cryptography and is a more specialized topic covering various new results on the real model of hyperelliptic curves. We only provide the lecture notes for the first lecture in this contribution. The other lecture notes will be made available through other journal publications.
Self-dual codes and invariant theory
Authors: Nebe Gabriele
Published: February 2025

A formal notion of a Typ T of a self-dual linear code over a finite left R-module V is introduced which allows to give explicit generators of a finite complex matrix group, the associated Clifford-Weil group C(T) ≤ GL|V|(C), such that the complete weight enumerators of self-dual isotropic codes of Type T span the ring of invariants of 𝒞(T). This generalizes Gleason’s 1970 theorem to a very wide class of rings and also includes multiple weight enumerators (see Section 2.7), as these are the complete weight enumerators cwem(C) = cwe(Rm⊗ C) of Rm × m-linear self-dual codes Rm⊗ C ≤ (Vm)Nof Type Tmwith associated Clifford-Weil group 𝒞m(T) = 𝒞(Tm). The finite Siegel &PHgr;-operator mapping cwem(C) to cwem−1(C) hence defines a ring epimorphism &PHgr;m: Inv(𝒞m(T)) ⇒ Inv(𝒞m−1(T)) between invariant rings of complex matrix groups of different degrees. If R = V is a finite field, then the structure of 𝒞m(T) allows to define a commutative algebra of 𝒞m(T) double cosets, called a Hecke algebra in analogy to the one in the theory of lattices and modular forms. This algebra consists of self-adjoint linear operators on Inv(𝒞m(T)) commuting with &PHgr;m. The Hecke-eigenspaces yield explicit linear relations among the cwemof self-dual codes C ≤ VN.
Combinatorial Designs and Code Synchronization
Authors: Tonchev Vladimir D.
Published: February 2025

Code synchronization is an important component of reliable data transmission. The paper surveys recent direct constructions and algorithms for finding optimal syncronizable codes based on combinatorial designs.
Eddy Current NDT System with Manual Positioning
Authors: Chady Tomasz  , Kowalczyk Jacek
Published: February 2025

In this paper an improved version of portable measuring system designated for eddy current nondestructive evaluation, has been described. The system was extended by module and functions for manual scanning. An ultrasonic device was utilized to detect probe position. A working distance of the positioning system is around 30 cm and can be easily extended. The whole system is controlled by a specialized program built under LabView®environment. The program was extended with visualization and control modules.
Adaptive mesh approach in Eddy current non-destructive testing
Authors: Abakar A.  , Krebs G.  , Clenet S.
Published: February 2025

Using the 3D FEM, it is possible now to study ECT problem quite accurately but it requires expertise from the user. In fact, the values of interest are of the same order as the numerical noise, so the quality of the mesh has a significant influence on the modelling result. In this paper we study different kinds of error estimators and refinement adapted to the studied refinements strategy in ECT.
Evaluation of Surface-modified Materials by Model-assisted Analysis of Barkhausen Effect Signals
Authors: Lo Chester  , Shen Yuping
Published: February 2025

Barkhausen effect (BE) measurements offer a useful technique for evaluation of surface conditions of magnetic materials such as case-hardening or corrosion. For surface-modified materials whose magnetic properties vary with depth, theoretical analysis of BE signals has remained a challenge due to a lack of an adequate model description. This paper reports on model-assisted analysis of BE signals towards quantitative depth profiling of magnetic properties of surface-modified materials. The approach is based on an extended model which describes the BE power spectrum. Two model parameters, namely the local pinning field fluctuation and correlation length parameters, which characterize the generation of BE signals and are related to the domain wall pinning strength, are described in terms of parametrized functions. The BE signals measured over a broad frequency range from case-hardened steel and oxidized Ni0.97Al0.03samples were analyzed using multiple passbands to extract signals generated at different depths. Depth profiles of the pinning field fluctuation and correlation length were determined by obtaining the best fit of the modeled signal power to the experimental data. The inverted profiles show sharp transitions at depths which agree with the case depths of the case-hardened steel and the oxidization depths of the Ni0.97Al0.03samples.
Estimation Theory Metrics in Electromagnetic NDE
Authors: Knopp Jeremy S.  , Aldrin John C.  , Sabbagh Harold A.  , Jata Kumar V.
Published: February 2025

There is a need in the development and validation of inverse methods for NDE inspection problems to demonstrate capability using quantitative performance metrics. An overview of metrics is presented addressing the condition of the ill-posed problem, the quality of feature extraction algorithms, and performance of inversion algorithms. In particular, the relationship between metrics found in estimation theory, linear algebra and statistics are presented including Fisher Information, Cramer-Rao Lower Bound (CRLB), covariance, singular value decomposition (SVD), and variance inflation factors (VIFs). The connections and utility of these metrics are illustrated through examples of estimating material loss (thickness), conductivity, and lift-off.
Electromagnetic Evaluation of Honeycomb Composite Materials
Authors: Grimberg Raimond  , Savin Adriana  , Steigmann Rozina  , Serghiac Bogdan  , Iftimie Nicoleta  , Barsanescu Paul
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we present the eddy current holography using a transducer with orthogonal coils for detection of damages in aluminum honeycomb core placed between two plates of carbon-epoxy laminate composites.
An Electromagnetic Method for Evaluation of Fatigue and for Detection of Damage at Bjork-Shiley Convexo-Concave Prosthetic Heart Valves
Authors: Grimberg Raimond  , Chan Shiu C.  , Savin Adriana  , Steigmann Rozina  , Udpa Lalita  , Udpa Satish S.
Published: February 2025

It is proposed the using of an electromagnetic method for evaluation of BSCC prosthetic heart valves. The electrical conductivity of Haynes 25 alloy is significant decreasing at the appearance of the fatigue phenomenon, in the stage of pre-cracking. After this stage, when fatigue cracks appear, the electrical resistance of OS increases due to their presence.
Noncontact Characterization of Electric Carriers Density at Heterojunction Interfaces
Authors: Babajanyan Arsen  , Melikyan Harutyun  , Hovsepyan Artur  , Enkhtur Lkhamsuren  , Sargsyan Tigran  , Lee Kiejin
Published: February 2025

A near-field scanning microwave microprobe (NSMM) technique has been used to investigate the conductivity change in heterojunction interface of solar cells by measuring the reflection coefficient S11at an operating frequency near 4.1 GHz. As the density of carrier in n-type silicon layer of solar cells varied due to the incident light intensity was changed. A theoretical model was developed for the reflection coefficient S11, caused by the incident light intensity which can be derived by using standard transmission line theory. We directly imaged the photoconductivity changes due to the change of the carrier's properties with the different incident light intensities and wavelengths by NSMM.
Electromagnetic Field Interaction with Aqueous Glucose Solution in Dielectric Resonator
Authors: Kim Jonchel  , Babajanyan Arsen  , Friedman Barry  , Lee Kiejin
Published: February 2025

We investigate an electromagnetic field interaction with aqueous glucose solution in microwave dielectric resonator to evaluate the glucose concentration. A microwave resonator as a biosensor allows observation of the small variation of the glucose concentration by measuring the shift of the resonance frequency and the microwave reflection coefficient, S11. We observed the concentration of glucose with a detectable resolution up to 10 mg/ml at an operating frequency of about f = 1.68 GHz. The change of the glucose concentration is directly related to the change of the reflection coefficient due to the electromagnetic interaction between the dielectric resonator and the glucose solution. The operation principal is explained by the plane-wave solution model and simulated using a HFSS simulator. A glucose biosensor using a microwave dielectric resonator provides a unique approach for glucose monitoring.
Quantitative Evaluation of Corrosion Shape on Back Surface of SUS Samples by EMAT
Authors: Kosaka Daigo  , Kojima Fumio
Published: February 2025

This paper is concerned with quantitative evaluation of corrosion shape on back surface of SUS samples by Electro Magnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT). First, computational experiments are performed in order to investigate the characterization of testing signals. Secondly, various kinds of test specimens with corrosion are made. Our corrosion samples are characterized by elliptic curves with different diameters. Finally, we study the numerical analysis of EMAT signals corresponding to laboratory data.
Reactance Simulation for the Ferromagnetic Phase in Inconel Plate
Authors: Ryu Kwon Sang  , Son Derac  , Park Duck Gun  , Jung Jae Kap
Published: February 2025

A magnetic phase is partly produced in steam generator tube by stress and heat, because the steam generator tubes are used under high temperature, high pressure and radioactivity. It causes trouble for the safety of the steam generator tubes, but it is difficult to detect it by conventional eddy current methods. So a new type of probe is needed to distinguish between the signals from the defects and the magnetic phases. We designed a new U-type yoke which has two kinds of coils, one a magnetizing coil, and the other a detecting coil, and we simulated the signal induced by the ferromagnetic phase and the defect existed in the Inconel 600 plate.
A Study for the Effect of the ECT Signal influenced by Steam Generator Tube Support Plate Blockage
Authors: Jee Dong Hyun  , Cho Chan Hee
Published: February 2025

The effects of the ECT (Eddy Current Test) Signal influenced by TSP (Tube Support Plate) blockage by sludge pile at nuclear power plant SG (Steam Generator) are studied in this paper. Model 51B SG has quatrefoil type flow holes in TSP and has a tendency to clogging up the flow holes at the flow-stagnated region with the sludge. The sludge pile deposited on the TSP flow holes makes the flow be blocked, and causes the steam generator water level oscillation. Therefore, it is necessary to know how much portion of the TSP holes is obstructed by the sludge pile for the safe operation. Some methods are used to measure the extent; visual test (VT), wide range water level monitoring, and ECT. The method introduced in this paper is based on the ECT. The TSP blockage is simulated in a mock-up with the artificially fabricated sludge pile. The relationship between the extent of blockage and the ECT signal acquired by the bobbin and MRPC (Motorized Rotating Pancake Coil) is studied. A quantitative result for the blockage is obtained. A conversion table is developed from the MRPC probe test, which helps to estimate the blockage level from the bobbin probe signal. Applying the technique introduced in this paper to S/G tube inspection with other method complementarily, it is expected to improve the accuracy of estimating the flow hole blockage level and to give a guidance to SG management program.
Universal Device Access with FreeMote
Authors: Hipp Markus  , Mahler Thorsten  , Spika Christian  , Weber Michael
Published: February 2025

With the FreeMote system, we present a solution for easy and intuitive universal device control. Based on the Wii Remote Controller real world device functions can be accessed and controlled via gestures. Gestures include predefined sets apt for standard functions present in many devices as well as user definable gestures. Offering both possibilities, the users are free to choose and adapt the gestures to their needs while reducing the mental load. Along with the gesture interface, FreeMote offers a simple way of enabling everyday devices for FreeMote controlling. FreeMote makes use of the spatial nature of real world environments in device selection and in function controlling via gestures. Thus, FreeMote system supports the user in finding enabled devices, makes selecting devices easy and provides an intuitive way of controlling devices via gestures.
Telco@home: a seamless communication project with a user perspective
Authors: Castrogiovanni P.  , Guercio E.  , Marcengo A.  , Martini G.  , Rapp A.
Published: February 2025

Seamless communication is spreading in all areas of everyday life thanks to the greater interoperability of the consumer electronic devices. The opportunity richness that this scenario opens must be designed with the end users who will face both new opportunities but also new elements of complexity. This requires to take carfully into account their perspective in order to really help their daily lives through this new communication and media fruition platform for the home environment based on user meaningful service scenarios. The use of personas throughout the design phase of services has allowed us to take into account not only users actual behaviour, but also their needs and desiderata in order to translate them into solutions inproving their daily lives.
The Legal Status of Profiles
Authors: van Dijk Niels
Published: February 2025

The making of digital copies is the fundamental manner in which information technologies function. This has transformed copyright in the dominant legal form for the world of digital technologies and into a fundament for the modern knowledge economy. We are today confronted with the introduction and implementation of a new generation of information processing technologies under the header of Ambient Intelligence. Profiling is one of the enabling technologies behind Ambient Intelligence. These technologies provide a continuous and real-time production of profiles, which are themselves in a constant state of flux. Determining the legal status of profiles shows the increasing challenges of imposing the old intellectual rights scheme, based on presuppositions about original expressions of ideas, on these new information technologies.
Action research as a means of mobilising co-operative community psycho-social recovery from trauma
Authors: Capewell Elizabeth
Published: February 2025

This paper outlines the key principles of authentic action research showing how its fundamental philosophy and purpose make it a distinct activity from traditional scientific research. It is particularly suited to inquiry into social situations with self-determining people who can be engaged as co-researchers to produce useful answers to issues relevant to themselves. Action research offers a flexible yet disciplined approach in volatile situations to mobilising traumatised communities towards recovery. It can begin with low-cost self-research to transform reactivity into useful action thereafter engaging others, and ultimately large systems, as co-enquirers.
Mobilising community resources for present times and for the future
Authors: Lekaj Ramush  , Asllani Muharem  , Ademi Arber  , Isaku Bekim  , Jusufi Arlinda  , Krasniqi Bajram  , Kuljuh Emir  , Lekaj Ylber  , Mikuš Kos Anica  , Sallova Ahmet  , Shabani Sabit  , Statovci Sejdi  , Statovci Shukrije
Published: February 2025

The authors, all members of the professional staff of the Centre for Promotion of Education (QPEA), describe programmes as examples of good practise of mobilising local professional and institutional resources and resources of civil society (volunteers). Developing voluntary work in children and youths is an important investment in a future participative behaviour of citizens. The programme on mine-risk education is an interesting experience in which psychosocial know-how is linked in synergy with methods for mine-risk education. Activating resources of the health care system for psychosocial activities has a sustainable impact on involved professionals broadening their experience and enriching their medical views with the mental health perspective.
Automatically Adjusting Pointing Device Settings Enhances User Double-Click Performance
Authors: Koester Heidi Horstmann  , Lopresti Edmund F.  , Mankowski Jennifer  , Simpson Richard C.  , Mankowski Robert  , Ashlock Glen
Published: February 2025

We are developing an Input Device Assistant (IDA) that automatically adjusts various input device settings to better meet a user's specific needs. As part of this system, we built and tested methods for recommending values for the Windows settings that define double-clicks. Twelve individuals with physical impairments used the IDA system to get recommendations for double-click settings that matched their abilities. Subsequent use of the IDA settings significantly enhanced subjects' speed and accuracy when double-clicking on targets with their pointing device.
Methodological Framework to Set up Educational and Therapy Sessions with Robotic Technology: the IROMEC Proposal
Authors: Caprino Francesca  , Laudanna Elena
Published: February 2025

In this paper the authors describe the methods and initial results for implementation of a methodological framework, designed for rehabilitation and education professionals, to be used as a tool in the process of matching the play needs of children with disabilities with existing robotic technologies to enhance children's participation in play. This methodological framework, developed within the European project IROMEC (Interactive RObotic MEdiators as Companions, IST-FP6-045356), consists of five progressive steps describing the factors related to individuals and contexts (classified according to ICF-CY), the play activity (described in terms of play scenarios) and system requirements.
A Training Apartment with a Set of Electronic Memory Aids for Patients with Memory Difficulties after Acquired Brain Injury
Authors: Boman Inga-Lill  , Bartfai Aniko
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate if persons with cognitive impairment after acquired brain injury could learn how to use electronic aids to daily living (EADL). 15 patients stayed alone for four days in a training apartment equipped with EADL including reminders, safety functions and alarms covering security. The patients were trained to use EADL by an occupational therapist (OT) during the day time. The training was based on the patients' habits and wishes identified in an interview, and the patients' disabilities and needs. The OT registered in a protocol the process of learning how to use EADL. Field notes were also taken. The alarms that were activated during the stay were automatically logged in the form of lists in a computer. All patients learned how to use all EADL in only four days with daily support from the OT. If patients with cognitive impairments can learn how to use EADL during rehabilitation and have access to EADL in the home they might be less dependent. The results can also contribute to the development of more user-friendly EADL for persons with cognitive impairment.
EMG Signal Controlled Pneumatic Gripper for Mouthsticks
Authors: Nussbaum Gerhard  , Veigl Christoph  , Miesenberger Klaus
Published: February 2025

Persons with severe physical disabilities (limited or no hand control) often use mouth- or headsticks to handle things (pressing buttons, pushing things, etc.) in the nearer environment including computers. Standard mouthsticks do not allow the grabbing of objects. Such a functionality would considerably improve the benefit of sticks and enhance abilities and independence of users.
A Design-for-All Approach Towards Multimodal Accessibility of Mathematics
Authors: Tsonos Dimitrios  , Kaccori Hernisa  , Kouroupetroglou Georgios
Published: February 2025

In this paper we present a novel approach for the multimodal accessibility of mathematical expressions in inclusive learning. This methodology combines the capabilities and functionalities of MathML and a real-time XML-based architecture that supports audio, tactile and visual accessibility of mathematics on the board and the presentations in the classroom. This language and content independent system accepts also science expressions from books, or other educational material, either in printed or in electronic format. The multimodal rendering of typographic elements and mathematical notation is based on the semantic extraction.
A Study on Sensations of Walking-Distance and Orientation of the Blind
Authors: Kurachi Kunio  , Ohkubo Hirohiko  , Fujisawa Shoichiro  , Sueda Osamu
Published: February 2025

The sensations of walking distance and orientation were investigated as an aspect to evaluate walking characteristics of the blind. These sensations in a walking of blind will be important factors to form assistive information to be given during their walk. This research conducted to evaluate a dependence of these two sensations on the opposite attributes of blind persons. 27 blind persons were participated and basically two kinds of tasks were carried such as straight forward walking of 5m, 10m and 20m long and turning angles of 45 and 90 degrees. Statistically analyzed that the groups of blind persons who are walking independently in their daily life and have experience of training for walking skills presented better performances on the walking characteristics comparing with opposite attributes such as usually walk with escort and no experience of training.
Promoting “Design for All” in the (e-)Tourism Industry: an Approach Towards Inclusion
Authors: Matausch Kerstin  , Miesenberger Klaus  , Pühretmair Franz  , Strasser Andreas  , Lassnig Markus  , Markus Mark
Published: February 2025

The e-Motion Competence Centre committed itself in promoting Design for All and inclusion in the tourism sector. It has initiated a set of activities which are presented in this paper. The ongoing project activities have revealed a widespread reluctance of the tourism industry to adopt accessibility measures. Initial evaluation results have also shown a limited level of accessibility at accommodation providers.
To Know and to Conserve the Heritage, Matching Rights and Needs! Contribution of New Pavements
Authors: Barberà R.  , Belda-Lois J.M.  , Valero M.  , Poveda R.  , Zamora T.  , Mora D.  , Soler C.  , Ávila C.
Published: February 2025

This paper highlights the importance of matching ‘accessibility to’ and ‘conservation of’ the heritage. To combine conservation and accessibility concepts in the heritage domain may seem antithetical. One looks to preserve existing assets while the other tends to remove whatever is possible to achieve integral accessibility. Nevertheless, this combination may be satisfactory with adequate interventions. An example of how to improve the horizontal access is the creation of specific floors. The idea is to develop an elevated walking path based on ceramic tiles and a supporting lightweight framework. The ceramic tiles have the peculiarity of being able to reproduce the original pavement and to add information relative to the heritage asset. Such systems improve the accessibility of the path and, at the same time allow distinguishing the intervention from the original.
The Adaptation and Use of the Italian Version of the Matching Assistive Technology and CHild (MATCH) Measure
Authors: Federici Stefano  , Corradi Fabrizio  , Lo Presti Alessandra  , Scherer Marcia J.
Published: February 2025

Purpose. Evaluating the usefulness of the Matching Assistive Technology and CHild (MATCH) measure in the process of aid assignment to infants and children in an Italian centre for technical aids. Methodology. After a pre-experimental phase, during which the translation of the MATCH was performed, the Italian version of the MATCH was administered to parents/caregivers and professionals, according to the details of each set of worksheets, during the experimental phase. Participants. The MATCH was administered to a pilot-sample of 15 users of Ausilioteca (centre for technical aids) of “Leonarda Vaccari” Institute in Rome, Participants were split into two groups: 8 users (EPG) were administered the MATCH during the assistive technology (AT) evaluation process, along with other AT assessment tools normally adopted by the Ausilioteca team in order to match infants and children with the most appropriate AT; 7 users (FUG) were administered the MATCH during a follow-up phase of the AT evaluation process. Data analysis and results. Data from the EPG group showed that MATCH is a good tool when included in the Ausilioteca's aid assessment process. Data from the FUG group showed that it is a feasible and effective follow-up instrument. It also allows checking the use or abandonment of the aid recommended through the previous matching process of Ausilioteca and the possible need to revise the matching in the light of new requirements and/or difficulties. Conclusion. The MATCH seems to help professionals in the process of assignment of aids to infants and children when used with other assessment tools. In a follow-up phase, it is a very good instrument for prevening abandonment of the aid through a technology utilization analysis or assessing the need to review the previous matching process.
MLG - Multimedia On-Line Lesson Generator
Authors: Mitrea Paulina  , Mitrea Delia  , Buza Ovidiu
Published: February 2025

MLG is an authoring environment aimed to provide integrated multimedia tools that assist the design and implementation of on-line lessons, realised by the authors in the context of a research contract focussed on the objectives of Information Society R&D direction. Mainly, a lesson presentation is made by means of one or more HTML pages, integrating various multimedia learning objects. The central learning object is an audio/video movie, which leads the whole deployment of the lesson; the movie is built as a data stream, using Windows Media control.
Assistive Technology Devices in Educational Settings: Students' Perspective
Authors: Hemmingsson Helena  , Lidström Helené  , Nygård Louise
Published: February 2025

This study investigates use and non-use of assistive technology devices in school from the students' perspective. Specifically, the characteristics of the devices students want to use were examined, as these devices are likely to support school participation. Data collection included a) field observations and interviews with 20 students with disabilities, aged 10-19 years, and their teachers (n=17) and, b) examination of the number and type of assistive technology devices provided. Findings demonstrated it is essential that devices be integrated into classroom activities and that students experience instant benefits for their function in school without negative effects on their social participation with peers if they are to use the devices provided. Social participation was often prioritized by students. Thus, it is important providers understand that students encompass both a functional and a psycho-social perspective to their devices. Furthermore, to facilitate childrens participation in decision-making about possible assistive technology devices they need both verbal information and practical experience of using the devices.
Using ICT to Enable Inclusive Teaching Practices in Higher Education
Authors: Duffin Dawn  , Gray Geraldine
Published: February 2025

This paper presents evidence based outcomes for learners in third level education from the Continue IT: Leaning Styles Theme. The project is innovative in that it is a mainstream project that originated from previous projects and research into including students with disabilities and learning difficulties into higher education. This project, like the past projects it is built on, took interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approaches to the development of inclusive solutions for learners with disabilities. The models of identification and support designed as a result of these previous projects have now been used to enhance learner outcomes overall in terms of retention, attendance, performance and achievement.
Staying in the Crosswalk: A System for Guiding Visually Impaired Pedestrians at Traffic Intersections
Authors: Ivanchenko V.  , Coughlan J.  , Shen H.
Published: February 2025

Traffic intersections are among the most dangerous parts of a blind or visually impaired person's travel. Our “Crosswatch” device [4] is a handheld (mobile phone) computer vision system for orienting visually impaired pedestrians to crosswalks, to help users avoid entering the crosswalk in the wrong direction and straying outside of it. This paper describes two new developments in the Crosswatch project: (a) a new computer vision algorithm to locate the more common – but less highly visible – standard “two-stripe” crosswalk pattern marked by two narrow stripes along the borders of the crosswalk; and (b) 3D analysis to estimate crosswalk location relative to the user, to help him/her stay inside the crosswalk (not merely pointing in the correct direction). Experiments with blind subjects using the system demonstrate the feasibility of the approach.
Assistive Technology or Mainstreaming of ICT? Yes, please!
Authors: Dale Oystein  , Bergerud Buene Toril  , L'Abee-Lund Steinar
Published: February 2025

This paper details the results from a study in which we have examined to what extent information and communication technology (ICT) in Norway is designed in a manner that allows easy access and usage for persons with disabilities, and to what extent mainstream ICT is interoperable with assistive technology (AT). It consists of a comprehensive literature review, an interview study and an accessibility expert evaluation of 12 useful and popular web sites/services. Despite the fact that ICT has given people with disabilities many new opportunities in terms of communication and access to information, there are a number of serious accessibility issues denying many people equal usage of ICT.
Exploring the Use of Assistive Technology for Developing Countries and Minority Languages
Authors: Iwabuchi Mamoru  , Nakamura Kenryu  , Kondo Takeo  , Blenkhorn Paul
Published: February 2025

In this study, extending the use of assistive technology (AT) in developing countries including the localization of the technology for minority languages was aimed at. Nepali screen reader was discussed as one of the most needed AT in those countries. First our team visited Nepal, and investigated the current situation of blind people and their use of AT in the country. Secondly Nepali screen reader was build using existing technology including a speech engine of a closely related language, Hindi. Its trial concluded that Hindi speech engine could work for Nepali screen reader. It is suggested that this economical approach could be applicable to the development of screen readers for other minority languages. Providing information about AT can be also a key element when supporting developing countries.
Information and Communication Technology as a Tool to Increase Accessibility to Care
Authors: Söderberg Siv  , Skär Lisa
Published: February 2025

It is well established that the industrialized world is witnessing a significant change in the age profile of the population that will challenge the way healthcare is provided to older people. The increased prevalence of healthcare problems and instances of chronic conditions while having less available staff implies that more needs to be done with less resource. It is known that use of information and communication technology (ICT) has been experienced as positive for ill people living at home and their caregivers. eHealth combines the usage of ICT to support the remote monitoring of people with chronic illness in their home environment. This has influenced work of district nurses and has led to the support of such forming an important part of their work. The aim of the study was to describe the experiences of people with chronic illness and assistants who used information and communication technology (ICT) to communicate through picture and sound with the district nurse. A qualitative case study design was chosen and the case comprises one district nurse at a primary healthcare centre and one of her patients, and his assistants. The data collection process included repeated interviews and the district nurse also keeping a logbook. An application of new technology in form of an electronic communication program via a computer with Internet connection was used for communication through picture and sound between the district nurse and the people with chronic illness, their relatives and assistants. The program consists of a virtual room and enables direct communication through use of picture and sound in real time or as saved massages. The communication program enables the people with chronic illness and assistants to get into contact with the district nurse and to communicate about his health status. Data were analysed using content analysis. The results showed that using ICT increased the accessibility to care through the use of picture and sound facility in real time. This was something all the participants experienced as positively. However, the district nurse found it difficult to judge the patient's condition via ICT. It was difficult to make a decision without knowing the patient's prior condition. Nevertheless, all participants felt safe about ICT because the need for accessibility to care related to progression in the case of the chronic illness. In conclusion, the result indicates that information and communication technology increases accessibility to care and nursing for people with serious chronic illness living at home. However, this way of communicating and providing care for these people cannot replace a physical presence, but it could be seen as a complement to nursing care at home.
Application of Isotope-Edited FTIR Spectroscopy to the Study of Protein-Protein Interactions
Authors: Li Tiansheng  , Arakawa Tsutomu
Published: February 2025

Detailed analysis of molecular interactions is the key to understanding the mechanism of signal transduction and its intervention by inhibitory compounds. In this chapter, we shall review and discuss the application of isotope edited FTIR spectroscopy to the investigation of protein-protein interactions. Recently we have employed this technique to investigate the molecular interactions of granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) with the isolated immunoglobular domain (Ig) of its receptor [1,2]. To resolve the amide I' band overlap of G-CSF with that of the receptor in the FTIR spectrum of the complex,13C/15N uniformly labeled G-CSF was prepared for this study. By comparing the FTIR spectra of the isotope-labeled G-CSF and the isolated receptor with that of the complex, we have provided spectral evidence that the AB loop region involving the unique 310 helix segment of G-CSF likely undergoes a conformational change to a regular α-helix upon binding to the receptor domain. The IR data also indicate significant conformational changes involving β-turns and irregular structures in the Ig domain of the receptor in the complex. Furthermore, FTIR spectra of G-CSF, the receptor, and their complex demonstrate clearly that protein conformations of both G-CSF and the receptor are dramatically stabilized by complex formation. Together, the current data strongly suggest that the AB loop region including the 310 helix interacts specifically with the immunoglobulin-like domain of the receptor, which may play a role in receptor dimerization. This conclusion supports the structural model recently proposed by Layton and co-workers [3]. In summary, this work demonstrates that specific structural information of protein-protein complexes can be obtained by employing isotope-edited FTIR spectroscopy.
Biomedical FTIR Spectroscopy of Lipids
Authors: Wolkers Willem F.
Published: February 2025

This essay shows how Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) can be applied to study membrane phase behavior of cells that are relevant for biomedical applications such as red blood cells and platelets. FTIR studies are minimally invasive and do not require labeling. FTIR can give unique information on conformation and stability of membranes in cells that are exposed to heating, freezing or dehydration stress. By combining in situ FTIR techniques with cell viability studies, cell damage can be correlated with membrane phase changes. Understanding the complex behavior of biomembranes during heating, freezing and drying is directly relevant for thermal processing of cells such as is done in cryopreservation and cryosurgery.