A research thesis by Michiko Nishiyama, Soka University assistant professor of Information Systems Science, earned a citation at the International Conference on Multi-Functional Materials and Structures (MFMS2008) held at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University from July 28 to July 31. Dr. Nishiyama’s dissertation, selected among some 400 submissions from around the world, presented her research team’s development of special fiber optic sensors for home use—including floor mats that recognize individual occupants by footprint or warn them of slippery bathroom surfaces.