General Chairs

• Dr. Mihoko Otake-Matsuura,  Cognitive Behavioral Assistive Technology Team (CBAT), RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP),  Tokyo, Japan

• Prof. Marek Jeziński, Institute of Information and Communication Research, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Workshop Scope:

This workshop will explore the multifaceted intersection of technology, neuroscience, and aging, with a focus on promoting healthy aging and mitigating age-related neurodegenerative conditions. The discussions will span cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence, its applications in healthcare, and innovative approaches to understanding and influencing brain health. Key areas of focus include:

• AI Theory & Applications: Delving into the theoretical underpinnings of AI and exploring novel methodologies with the latest applications.

• AI in Healthcare: Examining the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing healthcare practices and improving patient outcomes.

• The Role of Smell and Taste in Healthy Aging: Investigating the impact of olfactory and gustatory systems on cognitive function and overall well-being in older adults.

• Sleep, Circadian Rhythms, Respiration, and Meditation for Healthy Aging: Analyzing the effects of these key factors on brain health and exploring interventions to promote healthy aging.

• Music for Healthy Aging and Dementia Prevention: Exploring the therapeutic potential of music in maintaining cognitive function and preventing dementia.

• Neurotechnology and Multisensory Stimulation for Healthy Aging: Investigating the latest advancements in neurotechnology and multisensory stimulation techniques for promoting healthy aging and intervention in dementia.

Day #1, May 10, 2025: AI MATHEMATICAL FUNDAMENTALS & HEALTHY HUMAN AGING

Chairs: 

• Prof. Tomasz Piotrowski, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

• Dr. Minh Ha Quang, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan

Topics: 

• AI Theory & Applications: Theory and Methods

• AI in Healthcare: Pioneering the Future of Healthcare with AI

Invited Keynote Session

9:00~9:30 CEST (16:00~16:30 JST via ZOOM)

"Current source reconstruction from theory to practical applications: how to choose the best methods" by Tomasz Górski,  Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland

Abstract: Current source reconstruction is a tool of fundamental importance for EEG analysis. Unfortunately, the multitude of methods and reconstruction parameters pose great challenges to the proper application of reconstruction. In this presentation, I will discuss reconstruction methods from physical fundamentals and mathematical methods to practical applications. Reconstructions for synthetic sources and for real MEEG recordings will be discussed. The importance of method selection and reconstruction parameter choices will be analyzed.

Bio: Tomasz Górski is a computational neuroscientist. His research involves modeling spiking neural networks, including modeling slow-wave sleep, modeling neurons with neuronal adaptation, and modeling dendritic activity. On the EEG signal analysis side, his research focuses on current source reconstructions. He received his PhD in theoretical physics working at the Center for Theoretical Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences. He has worked at research centers in France (Unit of Neuroscience, Information and Complexity, CNRS and at the European Institute for Theoretical Neuroscience in Paris) and in Switzerland (University of Bern). He is currently working at the Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Informatics at the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń.

9:30~10:00 CEST (16:30~17:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"Developing Japanese Vision Language Models" by Ryuichiro Hataya, SB Intuitions, Tokyo, Japan

Abstract:  As large language models and vision language models gain widespread adoption, their cultural and linguistic alignment becomes increasingly critical. This talk highlights SB Intuitions Corp's development of Japanese vision language models and explores the key differences between academic and industrial research based on the speaker's recent experience.

Bio: Dr. Ryuichiro Hataya is a senior research scientist at SB Intuitions, a company developing Japanese Large Language Models and Vision Language Models. His research focuses on efficient deep learning through differentiable programming, meta-learning, and the development of multimodal language models. Prior to his current position, he was a postdoctoral researcher at RIKEN AIP and RIKEN ADSP after receiving his Ph.D. from the University of Tokyo in 2022.

10:00~10:30 CEST (17:00~17:30 JST via ZOOM) 

"Joint Empirical Risk Minimization for Positive-unlabeled Data "by Wojciech Rejchel, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland

Abstract: Learning from positive and unlabeled data (PU learning) is to train a binary classifier based on a data set containing a part of positives which are labeled, and unlabeled instances. An unlabeled set includes the remaining part of positives and all negative observations. An important element in PU learning is modeling a labeling mechanism, i.e. assigning labels to positive observations. Unlike in many prior works, we consider a realistic setting for which probability of label assignment, i.e. a propensity score, is instance-dependent. We investigate a minimizer of a ,,joint’’ risk which depends on both posterior probability of a positive class and the propensity score. This non-convex empirical risk is alternately optimised with respect to parameters of both functions. The theoretical and practical properties of the algorithm will be provided.

Bio: Wojciech Rejchel is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun (Poland). There he received the his Ph.D. in mathematics in 2011 and his habilitation in 2022. His research interests focus on statistics and machine learning, in particular high-dimensional statistics, penalized methods, model selection, partially observed data, Monte Carlo methods and empirical processes.

10:30~11:00 CEST (17:30~18:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"Mapping Brain Activity: Spectral Fingerprinting Reveals Frequency Gradients" by Michał Lemańczyk and B-NICER Team, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland

Abstract: Brain oscillations are crucial for neural communication, as frequency modulation enables interactions between different functional brain regions. Recognizing distinct spectral patterns is essential for understanding functional connectivity. Spectral Fingerprinting (SF) has been shown to be an effective method for identifying region-specific activity within the frequency domain. We analyzed eyes-open resting-state MEG (rMEG) data from 89 participants in the Human Connectome Project. Source activity was estimated using Linearly Constrained Minimum Variance (LCMV) beamforming on 1-second epochs. Spectral estimates for the 1.5–34.5 Hz range were computed for each ROI and epoch, followed by k-means clustering to identify consistent frequency patterns across individuals. To evaluate pairwise spectral similarity, we employed Earth Mover’s Distance (EMD), generating a similarity matrix. Finally, diffusion embedding was used to extract spectral gradients across ROIs. We identified four gradients that accounted for 67% of the variance. Notably, the first gradient followed an anterior-posterior spatial pattern, while the second spanned an axis from sensorimotor to visual areas, with associative regions in between. Our findings align with previous reports indicating that sensory areas primarily engage lower frequencies, whereas associative regions tend to shift toward higher frequencies. Moreover, the spatial patterns of the gradients resemble those observed in functional connectivity studies using fMRI. The study was supported by the National Science Centre Poland (UMO-2016/20/W/NZ4/00354) grant.

Bio: Michał Lemańczyk is a mathematician specializing in high-dimensional probability, concentration of measure phenomena, machine learning, information theory, ergodic theory, and thermodynamics. He is an assistant professor at IS faculty of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. Recently, as a member of B-NiCER team, he pursues problems connected with EEG signals mainly focusing on a method called spectral fingerprinting.

11:00~11:30 CEST (18:00~18:30 JST break on ZOOM) 

Coffee Break

11:30~12:00 CEST (18:30~19:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"MVP-NAI Framework for E/MEG Inverse Problem Using MNE-Python" by  Julia Jurkowska, and Tomasz Piotrowski, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Poland, and Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland

Abstract: We introduce two novel families of reduced-rank MVP-based neural activity indices (MVP-NAIs), designed to provide unbiased source localization even when signal and noise covariance matrices are derived from finite sample data. These newly proposed MVP-NAIs offer provably higher spatial resolution than existing state-of-the-art neural activity indices in well-defined scenarios, bridging theoretical advancements with practical applications. Moreover, they establish a unified reduced-rank framework that subsumes previously known reduced-rank NAIs. To facilitate adoption, we integrate MVP-NAIs alongside MV-PURE spatial filters into a comprehensive reduced-rank localization and reconstruction pipeline, implemented as an extension of MNE-Python. This package includes user-friendly tutorials and detailed case studies, demonstrating the effectiveness of our methods, e.g., on both simulated data and real-world EEG recordings, such as oddball experiment paradigms. By making these tools accessible to the broader neuroscience and machine learning communities, we aim to advance high-resolution EEG source imaging and promote reproducible research.

Bio: Julia Jurkowska is a student in Applications of Physics in Biology and Medicine, specializing in Neuroinformatics, at the Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw. A recipient of the DeepMind Scholarship Programme, conducting a master’s thesis investigating whether machine learning methods can be used to differentiate individuals diagnosed with dyslexia from typical readers based on EEG signals. Her research focuses on advanced signal processing techniques applied to EEG data.

12:00~12:30 CEST (19:00~19:30 JST via ZOOM) 

"The Most Stable Changing Structures throughout Life in Healthy Aging: Brain Age Prediction from Morphometric MRI Data using Machine Learning" by Maria Waligórska and Tomasz Wolak, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Poland, and Bioimaging Research Center, Institute for Physiology and Pathology of Hearing, Kajetany, Poland

Abstract: Accurately predicting brain age from structural MRI data is valuable for understanding the healthy aging process. In this talk, I will present the results from machine learning models trained to estimate brain age using morphometric data extracted from MRI images. We focused on exploring different preprocessing strategies and identifying the brain structures that contribute most to accurate age prediction. In contrast to many studies that focus on markers of dementia, our research highlights brain structures that exhibit the most consistent and systematic changes over the lifespan.

Bio: Maria Waligórska is a master's student of Neuroinformatics at the Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw. After completing my Bachelors degree in Neuroinformatics I began working at the Bioimaging Research Center at the Institute for Physiology and Pathology of Hearing in Kajetany, Poland. My research interests lie at the intersection of neuroscience and machine learning, with a focus on developing practical solutions for real-world applications and utilizing computational techniques to understand the human brain.

12:30~13:00 CEST (19:30~20:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"Riemannian Geometry of Covariance Matrices: from Information Geometry to Optimal Transport" by Minh Ha Quang, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan

Abstract:  Symmetric positive definite (SPD) matrices, in particular covariance matrices, play important roles in many areas of mathematics and statistics, with numerous applications in various different fields,  including machine learning, computer vision, brain imaging, and brain computer interfaces. The set of SPD matrices possesses rich geometrical structures, which have been extensively studied mathematically and exploited practically. In this talk, we will present an overview of the Riemannian geometrical structures of SPD matrices that are commonly used in practice. These include in particular Fisher-Rao geometry (affine-invariant metric) from Information Geometry and Wasserstein geometry from Optimal Transport. The theoretical formulations will be illustrated by examples of their practical applications.

Bio: Dr. Minh Ha Quang current research interests focus on machine learning and statistical methodologies using theories and techniques from functional analysis and related mathematical fields. In particular, He  has  been working on theories and methods involving reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces (RKHS), Riemannian geometry, matrix and operator theory, information geometry, and optimal transport, especially in the infinite-dimensional setting.  received his PhD in mathematics from Brown University (Providence, RI, USA) and wrote a dissertation under the supervision of Stephen Smale. Before joining RIKEN, Dr Minh  was a researcher at the Pattern Analysis and Computer Vision group at the Italian Institute of Technology (Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia) in Genoa (Genova), Italy. Prior to Italy, I was a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Vienna, Austria, and the Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany.

13:00 ~ 15:00 CEST Research Poster Presentations (Days #1 & #2) and Coffee Networking Session

1. "EEG-Based Neurotechnology for Dementia Prediction Using Path Signature and Riemannian Geometry Classifier" by Tomasz M. Rutkowski and  Minh Ha Quang, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan

2. "Home Sleep Interventions and Dementia Risk" by Stanisław Narębski, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

3. "I am aware of my symptoms. They don’t bother me anymore. Effects of mindfulness training on well-being of psychosomatic disorder patients - preliminary study"  by Marek Chełstowski, Julia Tyszkiewicz, Natalia Krymow, Kamila Łaszewska, Monika Lewandowska, and Rafał Milner,  Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń

4. "Olfactory Neurotechnology for Neurobiomarker Discovery of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia" by Hubert Kasprzak, Academia Copernicana, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

5. "Polish adaptation of Cognitive Reserve Scale. Relationship of cognitive reserve with personality and subjective / objective cognitive functioning" by Jakub Słupczewski, Bartłomiej Kiljanek, Maria Dolores Roldan-Tapia, Juan García-García, Martyna Olszewska, Ewa Ratajczak, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland; and University of Almeria, Almeria, Spain

6. "Retinal-Based Eye Tracking Biomarkers in Parkinson’s Disease: Preliminary Evidence" by Krzysztof Tołpa, Bogna Bylicka, Marta K. Skrok, Valentyna Pryhodiuk, Robert Konklewski-Pilewicz, and Maciej Szkulmowski,  Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland; Inoko Vision sp. z o.o, Toruń, Poland

7. "Spatial Auditory Soundscapes for Developing Digital Neurobiomarkers or Cognitive Interventions in Early-onset Dementia Based on EEG and fNIRS Machine-learning Analysis" by Simon Kojima, Reiko Shiba, Yota Morimoto, Kiyoshi Furukawa, Shin'ichiro Kanoh, Tomasz Komendziński, Mihoko Otake-Matsuura, and Tomasz M. Rutkowski, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan; Shibaura Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan; Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan; Tokyo University of the Arts, Tokyo, Japan; and Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

15:30 ~... Networking & Grill at Copernican Integration Centre

Day #2, May 11, 2025: MULTIMODAL APPROACHES IN DEMENTIA PREVENTION

Chair: 

• Prof. Arkadiusz Gut, Department of Cognitive Science, Institute of Information and Communication Research, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

• Dr. Mihoko Otake-Matsuura,  Cognitive Behavioral Assistive Technology Team (CBAT), RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP),  Tokyo, Japan

Topics:

• The Role of Smell and Taste in Healthy Aging

• Sleep, Circadian Rhythms, Respiration, and Meditation for Healthy Aging

• Music for Healthy Aging and Dementia Prevention

• Neurotechnology and Multisensory Stimulation for Healthy Aging

Invited Keynote Session #1

9:00~9:30 CEST (16:00~16:30 JST via ZOOM)

TBA by Charles Spence, University of Oxford, UK

Abstract: TBA

Bio: Professor Charles Spence is the head of the Crossmodal Research Laboratory. He is interested in how people perceive the world around them. In particular, how our brains manage to process the information from each of our different senses (such as smell, taste, sight, hearing, and touch) to form the extraordinarily rich multisensory experiences that fill our daily lives. His research focuses on how a better understanding of the human mind will lead to the better design of multisensory foods, products, interfaces, and environments in the future. His research calls for a radical new way of examining and understanding the senses that has major implications for the way in which we design everything from household products to mobile phones, and from the food we eat to the places in which we work and live.

Over the years, Charles has consulted for a number of multinational companies advising on various aspects of multisensory design, packaging, and branding. He has also conducted research on human-computer interaction issues on the Crew Work Station on the European Space Shuttle. Charles and his group are currently working on problems associated with the design of foods that maximally stimulate the senses (together with Heston Blumenthal, chef of The Fat Duck restaurant in Bray). His group also has a very active line of research on the design of auditory, tactile, and multisensory warning signals for drivers and other interface operators (together with Toyota). Charles is also interested in the effect of the indoor environment on mood, well-being, and performance (together with ICI).

Charles has published over 500 articles in top-flight scientific journals over the last 15 years. Charles has been awarded the 10th Experimental Psychology Society Prize, the British Psychology Society: Cognitive Section Award, the Paul Bertelson Award, recognizing him as the young European Cognitive Psychologist of the Year, and, most recently, the prestigious Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation in Germany, not to mention the 2008 IG Nobel prize for nutrition, for his groundbreaking work on the ‘sonic crisp’!

(Source: Experimental Psychology, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, UK)

9:30~10:00 CEST (16:30~17:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"A retinal eye tracker combined with a DPI and P-CR eye trackers for high-accuracy and high-precision registration of all kinds of eye movements" by Maciej Szkulmowski, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Abstract: TBA

Bio: TBA

10:00~10:30 CEST (17:00~17:30 JST via ZOOM) 

TBA by Victor Manuel Pando Naude, Department of Clinical Medicine, Center for Music In the Brain, Aarhus University, Denmark

Abstract: TBA

Bio: TBA

10:30~11:00 CEST (17:30~18:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"Impact of Deep Brain Stimulation on Eye Movement in Patients with Parkinson's Disease" by Marta Skrok,  Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Abstract: TBA

Bio: TBA

11:00~11:30 CEST (18:00~18:30 JST break on ZOOM) 

Coffee Break

11:30~12:00 CEST (18:30~19:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"What can Recurrence Quantitative Analysis tell us about pathological abnormalities in eye movements?" by Bogna Bylicka, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Abstract: TBA

Bio: TBA

12:00~12:30 CEST (19:00~19:30 JST via ZOOM) 

TBA by Arkadiusz Gut, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Abstract: TBA

Bio: TBA

12:30~13:00 CEST (19:30~20:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"Sleep Capital for Healthy Aging and Dementia Prevention" by Tomasz Komendziński, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Abstract: TBA

Bio: Tomasz Komendziński is a lecturer in the Department of Cognitive Science at Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, where he also serves as the Vice-Director of the Institute for External Research and Economic Collaboration, as well as International Cooperation. He is a member of the Neurocognitive Laboratory at the Interdisciplinary Centre for Modern Technologies, responsible for the area of Disorders of Consciousness. Dr. Komendziński founded and coordinates InteRDoCTor (International-interdisciplinary Research for Disorders of Consciousness in Torun), a group focused on advancing research in this field. He holds memberships in numerous national and international scientific societies, including the Cognitive Science Society and the Society for Social Neuroscience, and serves on the editorial boards of journals such as "Phenomenology and Cognitive Sciences" and "Frontiers in Neuroscience – Neural Technology." As a member of the Emerging Field – Perception, Cognition and Language (PeCoLa) within the IDUB initiative, he received funding to establish a diagnostic unit for patients with consciousness disorders. He co-organizes the international "Science Bridges" seminar. Dr. Komendziński's research focuses on disorders of consciousness, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary studies, and the integration of research methods, particularly in brain and mind research. He develops theories of communication as sharing, embodied cognitive science, and the application of cognitive science in medicine, with recent emphasis on deep medicine, new medical competencies related to advanced technologies and AI (especially in consciousness disorders), and the challenges of Society 5.0, AI for Social Good, and Inclusive Society. Currently, he is involved in projects concerning transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation for seniors' wellbeing and children's visual competence, and participates in a project on art perception using modern brain research methods. He has led and participated in many interdisciplinary projects and is a member of a Polish team in an international cross-cultural study on compassion, social bonds, and resilience during the Covid-19 pandemic. He has authored over 100 publications and organizes scientific conferences. He is also the academic advisor of the Toruń Cognitive Science Association.

13:00 ~ 14:00 CET

Lunch break on your own

Invited Keynote Session #2

14:00~14:30 CEST (21:00~21:30 JST via ZOOM) 

"A Robot Moderating Group Conversation for Cognitive Intervention to Healthy Older Adults" by Mihoko Otake-Matsuura, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan

Abstract: Embodied intelligence is demonstrated in conversation since thoughts and feelings are exchanged through visual, auditoryand motor functions. Multiple cognitive functions, such as memory, comprehension, reasoning, and executive functions, are utilized in conjunction with bodily functions. Based on these characteristics of conversation, we are developing technology to intervene in and help maintaining and improving the cognitive functions of older adults through conversation. In this talk, we demonstrate a robot moderating group conversation and describe the effects of group conversations among humans using a moderator robot on human cognitive functions.

Bio: Mihoko Otake-Matsuura is a Team Director (PI) of Cognitive Behavioral Assistive Technology Team, Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, RIKEN, Japan. She is concurrently the founding director of the NPO Fonobono Research Institute, which is a platform for citizen science, and Adjunct Professor of Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. She is one of the pioneers in the field of soft robotics and her thesis on "Gel Robots" was published as a monograph in Springer Tracts in Advanced Robotics series. Her current research focuses on technology for cognitive health in super aged society where she successfully collected the world first evidence of cognitive intervention via conversation supported by robots. Her research interests include but not limited to: communication support system, human-robot interaction, brain-computer interface, AI and robotics for super aged society.

14:30~15:00 CEST (21:30~22:00 JST via ZOOM) 

TBA by Bibianna Bałaj, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Abstract: TBA

Bio: TBA 

15:00~15:30 CEST (22:00~22:30 JST via ZOOM) 

"ASME-BCI: An Auditory Brain-Computer Interface Leveraging Auditory Stream Segregation" by Simon Kojima, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan

Abstract: The auditory brain-computer interface (BCI) has the advantage of not occupying the visual field and being suitable for everyday use. However, its performance is generally lower than that of visual BCIs. In this talk, an auditory BCI (ASME-BCI) is introduced, which detects the user’s selective attention to multiple auditory streams by leveraging the perceptual processing, known as auditory stream segregation. In addition, recent research on an auditory BCI speller utilizing the ASME paradigm is also presented.

Bio: Dr. Simon Kojima is a postdoctoral researcher at the Inria Centre at the University of Bordeaux, France. His research interests lie in brain-computer interfaces (BCI), neural engineering, neuroscience, and machine learning. He received his Ph.D. from Shibaura Institute of Technology in Tokyo, Japan, under the supervision of Prof. Shin’ichiro Kanoh. His doctoral research focused on developing auditory BCI systems by leveraging auditory scene analysis and exploring how complex sound environments can enhance BCI performance. Before joining Inria, he conducted research as an intern at the RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP) in Tokyo and as a visiting researcher at the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour at Radboud University in Nijmegen, the Netherlands.

15:30~16:00 CEST (22:30~23:00 JST break on ZOOM) 

Coffee Break

16:00~16:30 CEST (23:00~23:30 JST via ZOOM)

"Passive BCI for Dementia Prediction Using Information Geometry Tools" by Tomasz M. Rutkowski, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan; and Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Abstract: This talk will discuss the use of passive brain-computer interface (pBCI) for assessing brain health and detecting neurodegenerative processes. It will focus on a methodology using path signatures and Riemannian geometry to analyze noisy EEG data, targeting MCI, and present preliminary results that demonstrate the potential for creating digital biomarkers.

Bio: Dr. Tomasz M. Rutkowski's career is marked by a passion for understanding the brain and developing cutting-edge technologies to improve human health.  After earning his M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Wroclaw University of Technology, he held research positions at Kyoto University and RIKEN Brain Science Institute in Japan.  His drive to translate research into practical applications led him to a role at an AI startup in Tokyo.  Currently, he is a research scientist at the RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP) and a research fellow at The University of Tokyo and Nicolaus Copernicus University.  Dr. Rutkowski's research focuses on brain-computer interfacing (BCI), computational modeling of evoked brain processes and awareness, and the application of AI for elucidating dementia biomarkers. His achievements include The BCI Annual Research Award in 2014 and a First Degree Scientific Award from Nicolaus Copernicus University in 2024.  He is also dedicated to promoting diversity in science as a jury member for the Maria Sklodowska-Curie Prize for Young Female Scientists in Japan.  A senior IEEE member, his work is detailed at http://tomek.bci-lab.info/.

16:30~17:00 CEST (23:30~24:00 JST via ZOOM) 

"The Promises and Pitfalls of Passive Neuroart Brain-Computer-Interfaces for Health and Well-being" by Marc Welter, Inria, LaBRI, Bordeaux, France

Abstract: A growing amount of publications claim strong evidence for beneficial health and well-being effects of art engagement. It seems plausible that Neuroart Brain-Computer-Interfaces (BCIs) could optimize beneficial neural and mental states during art experience, e.g. by presenting user-specific artworks that reduce neuromarkers of stress for this user. This talk will present the state-of-the-art in passive Neuroart BCIs, and discuss the major challenges towards health and well-being applications outside the lab.

Bio: Marc Welter is a doctoral researcher in Computer Science supervised by Fabien Lotte at the Inria Centre at the University of Bordeaux, France. His research interests lie in brain-computer interfaces (BCI), neuroaesthetics, machine learning and philosophy. His doctoral research focused on developing a hybrid passive BCI to improve user experience in virtual art museums. Before joining Inria, he received a B.A. in Philosophy and a M.S. in Embodied Cognitive Science and has worked as a research assistant in cognitive science (University of Potsdam), computer vision (Charité Berlin), natural language processing (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology) and psychology (University of Freiburg). 

17:00~17:30 CEST (23:00~23:30 JST via ZOOM) 

"Intermedia and Wholistic Music: from Audiovisual Piano to VR" by Jarosław Kapuściński, Stanford University, CA, USA

Abstract: Composer Jarosław Kapuściński specializes in creating interactive audiovisual works that are primarily meant to engage audiences in art contexts but they also have the potential to enhance well-being and support healthy aging. His compositions often involve musicians, particularly pianists, who control visual content, or more recently, general audiences who can explore and create within immersive VR environments. This unique interplay of music, visuals, and audience participation may foster cognitive stimulation and emotional engagement—key elements in promoting overall well-being. In this presentation, Kapuściński will discuss his work, highlighting his recent VR collaboration with the OpenEndedGroup, Point Line Piano, a project that reimagines the composition, performance, and reception of piano music. Participants engage with the work by drawing lines in 3D space, which trigger musical notes and create immersive audiovisual landscapes. This allows for a full-body experience of creativity and playfulness. The project's interactive nature offers possibilities for applications in workshops, therapy, and community engagement.

Info and trailer: https://www.jaroslawkapuscinski.com/works/point-line-piano/

Bio: Jarosław Kapuściński is an Associate Professor of Music at Stanford University, where he is affiliated also with the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures. His research focuses on intermedia composition, performance, and Japanese traditional aesthetics. Kapuściński has received grants and commissions from numerous international organizations, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the Governor General of Canada, and Institut National de l’Audiovisuel (INA) in France. His works have been awarded prizes at festivals in Canada, France, Switzerland, and the United States, and have been presented at venues such as New York MOMA, Spoleto USA, EMPAC NY, Logan Center in Chicago, ZKM in Karlsruhe, Reina Sophia Museum in Madrid, Media Biennale Wroclaw, Warsaw Autumn Festival, Creative Media Center in Hong Kong, Benz Arena in Shanghai, and National Art Centre in Ottawa.  In addition to his artistic work, Kapuściński has collaborated on scholarly websites about Japanese Gagaku music (gagaku.stanford.edu) and Noh Theater (noh.stanford.edu).  https://jaroslawkapuscinski.com/

17:30 ~ 17:45 CEST Closing Remarks

Organizing Committee 

Co-chair PL: Dr. Tomasz Komendziński, Department of Cognitive Science, Institute of Information and Communication Research, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Co-chair JP: Dr. Tomasz M. Rutkowski, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan

OC Members:

• Prof. Marta Podhorecka, Department of Geriatrics (NCU), Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

• Prof. Agnieszka Hamerlińska, Institute of Educational Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

• Dr. Bibianna Bałaj, Institute of Psychology, Nicolaus Copernicus, Toruń, Poland

• Dr. Minh Ha Quang, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP), Tokyo, Japan

• Jan Nikadon, Department of Cognitive Science, Institute of Information and Communication Research, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

• Michał Joachimiak, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

• Simon Kojima, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (RIKEN AIP) & Shibaura Institute of Technology (SIT), Tokyo, Japan

• Hubert Kasprzak, Academia Copernicana, Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU), Toruń, Poland

Participation

• This workshop is offered free of charge and is open to all members of the academic community. 

• We encourage faculty, researchers, students, and staff to participate. 

• We're inviting our online community in Japan to register via DoorKeeper for the Zoom event details [link].

The event is co-organized by

• Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland

• RIKEN Center Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Tokyo, Japan

Patronate by

• Under the Auspices of the Rector Magnificus, Professor Andrzej Tretyn, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland

Partners

• TBA