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https://youtu.be/glSoPDySruI?si=3vaFP2iwT9eKCDN2 Abstract: Despite the rapid advancement of AI, computers' ability to comprehend human behaviors remains limited. For instance, commodity computing devices still face challenges in understanding even basic human daily activities such as eating and drinking. The primary obstacle lies in the absence of suitable sensing technologies capable of capturing and interpreting high-quality behavioral data in everyday settings. In this presentation, I will share my research on the development of everyday wearables that are minimally-obtrusive, privacy-aware, and low-power, yet capable of capturing and comprehending various body movements and poses that humans employ in their everyday activities. First, I will show how these sensing technologies can empower various everyday wearable form factors, including wristbands, necklaces, earphones, headphones, and glasses, to track essential body postures, such as facial expressions, gaze, finger poses, limb poses, as well as…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUKKp4Fazno&t=3s&pp=ygUNYTIgY29sbGVjdGl2ZQ%3D%3D Abstract: This talk introduces curiosity-driven research that explores science and technology to build the next generation of ear-worn computer systems that are robust, sustainable, cost-effective, low-burden, and socially acceptable, thereby unlocking new applications in human-computer interaction and brain-computer interface. Yet, the development of these systems brings significant challenges, demanding a rethinking of hardware and software frameworks, advanced ML algorithms, and significant interdisciplinary efforts. I will present our approaches to fill the gaps and build practical ear-worn computers, highlighted by motivating applications our lab has worked on: interactive computing and disease monitoring and intervention. Additionally, I will share insights gained from deploying these systems in various real-world settings and discuss future research directions.  Biography: VP Nguyen, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science at the Manning College of Information & Computer Science at UMass Amherst…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dN7k8_8sTpA Overview:  This webinar comprises two presentations from Anna Barnacka of MindMics and Edward Wang of Billion Labs.  They each describe the work from their MassAITC a2 Pilot Award on addressing heart health monitoring.  Anna Barnacka delves into a patented in-ear IH technology that enables heart health monitoring through TWS earbuds and discusses future plans to make this technology accessible to all.  Edward Wang describes the VibroBP Smartphone app, the first app of its kind to use AHA-recommended oscillometry methods to ascertain BP and that does not require per-individual calibration. Abstracts: Hearing the Heart: Impact of MindMics' In-ear Infrasonic Hemodynography on Cardiac Health In this talk, we will highlight the MindMics Heart Health System, an advanced solution addressing heart health monitoring and aging-related challenges. We will delve into the patented in-ear IH technology that enables…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNAi6kpy14w Abstract: This webinar explores how participatory co-design approaches can transform the development of technologies for older adults and their care partners, with a focus on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Dr. Nicole Werner highlights how traditional “designer knows best” models often result in technologies that fail to meet real-world needs, leading to poor adoption and limited impact. Through compelling stories and examples, she demonstrates how human-centered design engages end users in every stage of development to create solutions that are usable, acceptable, and scalable. Attendees will learn about integrating co-design within the NIH Stage Model for behavioral intervention development, strategies for meaningful caregiver engagement, and methods to align user needs with commercialization goals. By the end of the session, participants will understand how to apply these principles to create age-inclusive technologies with greater potential…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVFTmTnYb4M Abstract: Various technologies are now available that purport to support families, friends, and other unpaid individuals who care for older adults living with dementia. Although such technologies may hold promise, it remains less clear whether these technologies are truly effective or aligned with the heterogeneity of dementia care, particularly dementia care that takes place in the community. This presentation will summarize recent findings and identify opportunities to utilize technology to advance the science and support of dementia care.upport them as they engage in this vital role. Biography: Joseph E. Gaugler, PhD, Robert L. Kane Endowed Chair in Long-Term Care & Aging in School of Public Health, Distinguished McKnight University Professor at University of Minnesota Joe Gaugler is the Robert L. Kane Endowed Chair in Long-Term Care & Aging in the School of Public Health…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQhT0iakfYE Abstract:  This webinar explored cutting-edge technologies aimed at improving early detection and monitoring of cognitive and functional impairments in older adults. Dr. Kate Papp (Mass General Brigham) opened the session by highlighting the challenges of traditional clinical assessments—lengthy, labor-intensive, and inaccessible to many—and the promise of scalable, remote, and ecologically valid digital tools to address the growing needs of an aging population. Three MassAITC pilot awardees presented innovative approaches: Dr. Eric Larson (Sonde Health) discussed testing a vocal biomarker platform that leverages AI to detect and monitor cognitive impairment via smartphone-based voice samples collected in home environments. Early findings show high participant engagement and promising accuracy in distinguishing cognitive status. Dr. Jennifer Stamps (Rendever) shared progress on a multimodal virtual reality (VR) fitness platform that combines physical exercise, cognitive stimulation, and social engagement. The…