Abstract
There are several problems in the computer graphics and visualization domains which require optimization tasks to be performed in order to improve the quality of the overall process. In this context, we propose and describe an innovative optimization methodology and a supporting software framework: i-om. The design goals of the proposed framework were twofold. The first comprises the decoupling, as much as possible, of the optimization process from the application specific processing tasks. In order to attain this goal, we opted to make use of intelligent techniques (i.e. metaheuristics). The second goal is to allow remote operation, and consequently great portability and interoperability, between the optimization tools and the visualization application. To fulfill the latter requirement the proposed framework was designed with the ability to communicate with external application using a specifically developed high level message protocol. The optimization framework was implemented and the paper presents illustrative results demonstrating the usefulness and effectiveness of the proposed approach..

Abstract
Documents on the World Wide Web are dynamic entities. Mainstream information retrieval systems and techniques are primarily focused on the latest version a document, generally ignoring its evolution over time. In this work, we study the term frequency dynamics in web documents over their lifespan. We use the Wikipedia as a document collection because it is a broad and public resource and, more important, because it provides access to the complete revision history of each document. We investigate the progression of similarity values over two projection variables, namely revision order and revision date. Based on this investigation we find that term frequency in encyclopedic documents - i.e. comprehensive and focused on a single topic - exhibits a rapid and steady progression towards the document's current version. The content in early versions quickly becomes very similar to the present version of the document.

Abstract
Strategies developed for database preservation in the past include technology preservation, migration, emulation and the use of a universal virtual computer. In this paper we present a new concept of "Model Migration for Database Preservation". Our proposed approach involves two major activities. First, migrating the database model from conventional relational model to dimensional model and second, calculating the information embedded in code and preserving it instead of preserving the code required to calculate it. This will affect the originality of the database but improve two other characteristics: the information considered relevant is kept in a simple and easier to understand format and the systematic process to preserve the dimensional model is independent of the DBMS details and application logic.

Abstract
Collaborative Data Mining (CDM) develops techniques to solve complex problems of data analysis requiring sets of experts in different domains that may be geographically separate. An important issue in CDM is the sharing of experience among the different experts. In this paper we report on a framework that enables users with different expertise to perform data analysis activities and profit, in a collaborative fashion, from expertise and results of other researchers. The collaborative process is supported by web services that seek for relevant knowledge available among the collaborative web sites. We have successfully designed and deployed a prototype for collaborative Data Mining in domains of Molecular Biology and Chemoinformatics.

Abstract
This paper presents the Usense2learn platform, a platform designed and implemented to enable children and teachers to use georeferenced multisensory information together with information acquired by sensors. Usense2learn places the creation of content in the hands of children. While using Usense2learn, mobile sensors can be held across the exploration area and provide georeferenced environmental information such as air temperature and humidity. Using multimedia (video, image, sound and text) teachers and children can bring the outside world into their classroom and share it with other classrooms across the globe. Having the limited schools' budgets in mind, content creation can be made anywhere without communication costs. Internet connection is only required, together with Google Earth, for visualization. The Usense2learn platform was successfully used in a curricular context, engaging children and teachers in meaningful environmental education activities. © 2010 ACM.

Abstract