Interactive Tool Research Articles

Facilitating integrative and personalized oncology omics analysis with UCSCXenaShiny.

The continuous generation of multi-omics and phenotype data is propelling advancements in precision oncology. UCSCXenaShiny was developed as an interactive tool for exploring thousands of cancer datasets available on UCSC Xena. However, its capacity for comprehensive and personalized pan-cancer data analysis is being challenged by the growing demands. Here, we introduce UCSCXenaShiny v2, a milestone update through a variety of improvements. Firstly, by integrating multidimensional data and implementing adaptable sample settings, we create a suite of robust TPC (TCGA, PCAWG, CCLE) analysis pipelines. These pipelines empower users to conduct in-depth analyses of correlation, comparison, and survival in three modes: Individual, Pan-cancer and Batch screen. Additionally, the tool includes download interfaces that enable users to access diverse data and outcomes, several features also facilitate the joint analysis of drug sensitivity and multi-omics of cancer cell lines. UCSCXenaShiny v2 is an open-source R package and a web application, freely accessible at https://github.com/openbiox/UCSCXenaShiny .

Unlocking Fluent Speech: Enhancing Student Speaking Skills through Digital Storytelling

This study evaluates the impact of digital storytelling on improving college students' speaking skills, based on Vygotsky’s Social Constructivism, which emphasizes the role of social interaction and cultural tools in learning. Using a quasi-experimental design, 60 fourth-semester students at the Islamic Institute of Sunan Kalijogo Malang were divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group from the Faculty of Islamic Da'wah and Broadcasting engaged in digital storytelling, while the control group, including students from the Tarbiyah and Teaching Faculty, did not. Narrative texts such as fairy tales and fables were used in the intervention. The experimental group showed a significant improvement in speaking skills, with their mean post-test score increasing from 55.39 to 61.72, compared to a decrease in the control group's score from 57.01 to 55.12. Digital storytelling effectively enhances students' speaking skills by providing engaging, interactive learning experiences. The study supports the integration of digital storytelling into language instruction to improve oral communication abilities

Site selection for a high-level nuclear waste repository in Germany: a short guide

The government agency BGE started a site selection process for a high-level nuclear waste repository in 2017. The first phase of data screening was completed in 2020 and resulted in the identification of search areas covering 54% of the national territory. The actual second phase will be completed by 2027 or later, and the areas for aboveground investigations will be identified. The obligatory nongovernment input is provided by follow-up regional conferences, which are best supported by external scientific expertise. The large amount of text documents and maps and the interactive internet tools such a 3D viewer provide a suitable basis for external evaluation. The rationale is to apply stricter criteria than those used in the first phase to drastically reduce the size of the search area. With this updated set of criteria, the size of the search area can be reduced to 2,662 km2 or 0.7% of the national territory. This size is convenient for detailed aboveground investigations such as high-density 3D seismic surveys.

The OBS UK Dashboard: an interactive tool for representative trial site selection to facilitate equality and diversity in maternity research

BackgroundObstetric Bleeding Study UK (OBS UK) (award ID: 152057) is a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)-funded stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial of a complex intervention for postpartum haemorrhage. This was developed in Wales and evaluated in a feasibility study, with improvements in maternal outcomes observed. Generalisability of the findings is limited by lack of control data and limited ethnic diversity in the Welsh obstetric patient population compared to the United Kingdom (UK): 94% of the Welsh population identifies as White, versus 82% in the UK. Non-White ethnicity and socioeconomic deprivation are linked to increased risk of adverse maternal outcomes. Traditionally, decisions regarding site selection are based on desire to complete trials on target in ‘tried and tested’ research active institutions. To ensure widespread applicability of the results and investigate the impact of ethnicity and social deprivation on trial outcomes, maternity units were recruited that represent the ethnic diversity and social deprivation profiles of the UK.MethodUsing routinely collected, publicly available data, an interactive dashboard was developed that demonstrates the demographics of the population served by each maternity unit in the UK, to inform site recruitment. Data on births per year, ethnic and socioeconomic group of the population for each maternity unit, across the UK, were integrated into the dashboard.ResultsThe dashboard demonstrates that OBS UK trial sites reflect the ethnic and socioeconomic diversity of the UK (study vs UK population ethnicity: White 79.2% vs 81.7%, Asian 10.5% vs 9.3%, Black 4.7% vs 4.0%, Mixed 2.5% vs 2.9%, Other 3.0% vs 2.1%) with variation in site demography, size and location. Missing data varied across sites and nations and is presented.ConclusionThe NIHR equality, diversity and inclusion strategy states studies must widen participation, facilitating individuals from all backgrounds to engage. The development of this novel interactive dashboard demonstrates an innovative way of achieving this. National Health Service (NHS) maternity researchers should consider using this tool to enhance diversity in research, address health disparities and improve generalisability of findings. This approach could be applied to healthcare settings beyond maternity care and across different global populations.Trial registrationISRCTN 17679951. Registered on August 30, 2023.

In-depth Analysis of Students' Mathematical Problem-Solving Skills: Influence Factors Motivation and Effective Teaching Strategies

Problem-solving (PS) skills are efforts to find solutions when faced with challenges. This study aims to examine students' mathematical PS skills by focusing on the influence of learning motivation and identifying factors that were previously overlooked. A qualitative approach with a case study design was used, where the researcher acted as the primary instrument. The research also utilized PISA-type test instruments, observation sheets, and interviews. PISA-type questions were designed around content, context, and process components, adhering to the PISA framework. The study was conducted in a school in Surakarta, chosen for its alignment with the minimum competency assessment system similar to PISA. Using snowball sampling, nine students were selected for response analysis. These students were categorized based on their motivation levels: high, moderate, and low. The results show that students with high motivation are proactive in problem-solving, directly addressing the problem, reviewing each step as they proceed, and ensuring accuracy. Moderately motivated students take more time, often using scratch paper, and review their work only at the end. Low-motivation students face greater difficulties, frequently making mistakes, relying heavily on scratch paper, and often skipping the review process due to time pressure. To improve PS skills, future research could explore the integration of interactive digital tools with instant feedback, adaptive learning platforms tailored to student motivation, and collaborative learning exercises. Additionally, incorporating real-world scenarios into problem-based learning could enhance engagement and develop deeper problem-solving abilities across different motivation levels.

The Comparative Performance of Large Language Models on the Hand Surgery Self-Assessment Examination.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) models have emerged as capable of producing human-like responses and have showcased their potential in general medical specialties. This study explores the performance of AI systems on the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) Self-Assessment Exams (SAE). ChatGPT 4.0 and Bing AI were evaluated on a set of multiple-choice questions drawn from the ASSH SAE online question bank spanning 5 years (2019-2023). Each system was evaluated with 999 questions. Images and video links were inserted into question prompts to allow for complete AI interpretation. The performance of both systems was standardized using the May 2023 version of ChatGPT 4.0 and Microsoft Bing AI, both of which had web browsing and image capabilities. ChatGPT 4.0 scored an average of 66.5% on the ASSH questions. Bing AI scored higher, with an average of 75.3%. Bing AI outperformed ChatGPT 4.0 by an average of 8.8%. As a benchmark, a minimum passing score of 50% was required for continuing medical education credit. Both ChatGPT 4.0 and Bing AI had poorer performance on video-type and image-type questions on analysis of variance testing. Responses from both models contained elements from sources such as PubMed, Journal of Hand Surgery, and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. ChatGPT 4.0 with browsing and Bing AI can both be anticipated to achieve passing scores on the ASSH SAE. Generative AI, with its ability to provide logical responses and literature citations, presents a convincing argument for use as an interactive learning aid and educational tool.

Effects of highlights and annotations on EFL learners’ Reading comprehension: an application of computer-assisted interactive reading model

This mixed-methods study investigates the effects of highlights and annotations on reading comprehension among Chinese EFL students majoring in teaching English as a foreign language, within a computer-assisted interactive reading model. The study involved 183 participants, randomly assigned to three experimental groups and a control group, each utilizing distinct combinations of highlights and annotations to evaluate their impact on reading comprehension. The results indicate that the intervention groups exhibited significant improvements in reading comprehension compared to the control group. Qualitative feedback from participants revealed increased engagement and metacognitive awareness, suggesting that these interactive features function as effective cognitive scaffolds. By facilitating information processing and reducing cognitive load, highlights and annotations enhance the reading experience and comprehension. These findings support cognitive load theory and underscore the pedagogical potential of integrating interactive elements into digital reading materials. This integration can promote active reading strategies and learner-centered instruction, offering valuable insights for educators and curriculum designers. By demonstrating the efficacy of technology-enhanced reading interventions, this research contributes to the broader field of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL), emphasizing the role of interactive tools in improving language proficiency and academic success among EFL learners.

Comparison of Procedural Content Item Generator versus Interactive Tool for Clinical Skills Acquisition in Physiotherapy Students

Comparison of Procedural Content Item Generator versus Interactive Tool for Clinical Skills Acquisition in Physiotherapy Students

Advances of gut-on-a-chip for exploring host-microbe interactions

The human gut is a complex ecosystem harboring rich microbes that play a key role in the nutrient absorption, drug metabolism, and immune responses. With the continuous development of microfluidics and organ-on-a-chip, gut-on-a-chip has become a powerful tool for modeling host-microbe interactions. The chip is able to mimic the complex physiological environment of the human gut in vitro, providing a unique platform for studying host-microbe interactions. Firstly, we introduce the physiological characteristics of the human gut. Secondly, we comprehensively summarize the advantages of the microfluidic chip in vitro recapitulating the intestinal system by integrating microenvironmental factors, such as complex cell components, dynamic fluids, oxygen gradients, and mechanical mechanics. Thirdly, we expound the key performance indicators for evaluating the construction performance of gut-on-a-chip. In addition, we review the progress of gut-on-a-chip models in the research on gut microecology, disease modeling, and drug evaluation. Finally, we highlight the challenges and prospects in the applications of the emerging technology. The above is summarized with a view to informing the application of gut-on-a-chip for indepth studies of gut microbe-host interactions.

Cultural synergy: Integrating Lamin Dayak Kenyah in English language learning – A need analysis study

This research aims to identify students' preferences and interests in learning English through Lamin Dayak Kenyah architectural buildings. This research is a mixed research that combines quantitative and qualitative data. The participants were 271 students and 33 English lecturers at universities. The methods used to collect data were classroom observations, surveys, and interviews to identify specific needs faced by students and lecturers when incorporating traditional houses into learning materials. The four fundamental English language skills—listening, reading, writing, speaking—are included in the results. In listening skills, students and lecturers prefer to learn and teach English by watching videos and listening to dialogues or conversations. In reading ability, students and lecturers want to learn with intensive reading, active reading, and critical reading. Regarding writing skills, students and lecturers prefer assignments such as writing descriptive texts and opinion articles. In speaking skills, students and lecturers want to learn through discussion and describing pictures orally. In choosing topics, students and lecturers are interested in the history of local architectural buildings, traditional house design, and the symbolism, color, and meaning of the carvings. Project-based learning (PBL) is the preferred learning method, and learning resources are drawn from videos and interactive learning tools. Future research can utilize these findings to design more targeted instructional materials, leveraging the results of the needs analysis that has been conducted in this study.

Using an interactive simulation tool of national energy and climate policy planning to explore environmental policy options from the perspectives of different interest groups

AbstractTo reach the Paris Agreement goals, European governments have defined national contributions to the EU binding climate goals and have developed national climate and energy plans for 2021–2030 (NECPs). NECPs are detailed strategies in which governments can flexibly emphasize specific sectors, technologies and national energy policy choices. Every country has built its own energy modelling capacity for forecasting purposes. In most countries, this national modelling relies on optimization tools such as Markal or TIMES. For Latvia's energy sector, a system dynamics (SD) model was built to complement the TIMES model. The SD model deals with an integrated energy system, including the primary energy supply and transformation sector; energy distribution and storage system; and energy demand sectors (residential, tertiary, public, industry and transportation). Sectoral policies are presented in the Stella Architect interface. This study demonstrates how the interactive simulation tool was used in the Environmental Engineering Master level course ‘Environmental Policy and Economics’ as an experiential learning approach. The student assignment involved applying this tool to develop and analyse the energy transition policy package for one of four ideological interest groups: deep greens, bright greens, light greens and greys. Students had to assume a role and adopt its perspective by applying their border‐crossing competence and reflecting on selected policy mixes for that ideology. Various transition pathways, based on different ideologies, illustrate the possibilities for application. Results show that students were successful in fulfilling the assignment.

Abstract B025: Assessing the content and quality of online patient education material on clinical trials from NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers

Abstract Background: Online patient educational material on cancer clinical trials is available on NCI- designated comprehensive cancer center websites and official YouTube channels. Online health information is an important resource for patients seeking to learn more about treatment options. Objective: Examine the quality and content themes in online patient educational material (PEM) related to cancer clinical trials published by comprehensive cancer centers. Methods: A random sample of comprehensive cancer centers (21) was chosen to represent the national network of cancer centers. Each website was searched for webpages containing patient-oriented clinical trial information. Official YouTube channels were also searched for relevant video material. Each webpage and video (N=196) were assessed for quality and content themes. Quality was measured using an abbreviated Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool which scores understandability and actionability of text and audio-visual materials, and content themes were assessed by the use of a content characteristic codebook. Results: Common content themes in the sample (N=196) of online PEM from comprehensive cancer centers were defines purpose of trials, physician speaker, animated or illustrated elements, and defines phases of trials. Online PEM had an average score of 83 for understandability and 26 for actionability, an area for improvement. Only 10% of materials reviewed scored high for understandability (>90) and for actionability (>70). Online webpages that mixed text and video scored highest on the quality assessment. Video-only content scored lowest on the quality assessment. Only a small percentage of PEM included FAQs (10%), instructions on how to find a trial (16%), mentioned consent (14%) or costs associated with trials (12%). Mentions or depictions of minority populations were not commonly observed in the material (11%). Conclusions: Online PEM published by comprehensive cancer centers is an important and easily accessible resource for patients looking to learn more about clinical trials. Cancer centers should add various audio-visual formats and interactive tools to their webpages to increase the quality of the clinical trial resources. Including representation of historically underserved populations and adding actionable advice for patients has the potential to engage patients’ interest and increase enrollment in cancer clinical trials. Citation Format: Trista Beard, Diana Morales, Fatimata Sanogo, Chanita Hughes Halbert. Assessing the content and quality of online patient education material on clinical trials from NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B025.

Free tools for crystallographic symmetry handling and visualization.

Online courses and innovative teaching methods have triggered a trend in education, where the integration of multimedia, online resources and interactive tools is reshaping the view of both virtual and traditional classrooms. The use of interactive tools extends beyond the boundaries of the physical classroom, offering students the flexibility to access materials at their own speed and convenience and enhancing their learning experience. In the field of crystallography, there are a wide variety of free online resources such as web pages, interactive applets, databases and programs that can be implemented in fundamental crystallography courses for different academic levels and curricula. This paper discusses a variety of resources that can be helpful for crystallographic symmetry handling and visualization, discussing four specific resources in detail: the Bilbao Crystallographic Server, the Cambridge Structural Database, VESTA and Jmol. The utility of these resources is explained and shown by several illustrative examples.

Language Learning Through Zoom

Attributable to the COVID pandemic, Zoom has become one of most widely used digital tools for online interaction. Schools and universities had to transition to wholly online teaching, and Zoom was one of the platforms used for real-time sessions. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate students' experiences of using tools like Zoom to see the positive and negative sides of videoconferencing for language learning. Students' and teachers' digital competence is an important factor that impacts online learning, and therefore students' experiences are analyzed in relation to the TPACK framework, which looks at teachers' digital competences and the intersections between their technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK). It is found that especially the intersection between technological and pedagogical competences is sometimes lacking among teachers and is identified as the cause of a lot of negative experiences. Thus, the conclusion of this study is that such competences need to be developed by teachers.

Model-Informed Precision Dosing of Tacrolimus: A Systematic Review of Population Pharmacokinetic Models and a Benchmark Study of Software Tools.

Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant commonly administered after solid organ transplantation. It is characterized by a narrow therapeutic window and high variability in exposure, demanding personalized dosing. In recent years, population pharmacokinetic models have been suggested to guide model-informed precision dosing of tacrolimus. We aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of population pharmacokinetic models and model-informed precision dosing software modules of tacrolimus in all solid organ transplant settings, including a simulation-based investigation of the impact of covariates on exposure and target attainment. We performed a systematic literature search to identify population pharmacokinetic models of tacrolimus in solid organ transplant recipients. We integrated selected population pharmacokinetic models into an interactive software tool that allows dosing simulations, Bayesian forecasting, and investigation of the impact of covariates on exposure and target attainment. We conducted a web survey amongst model-informed precision dosing software tool providers and benchmarked publicly available tools in terms of models, target populations, and clinical integration. We identified 80 population pharmacokinetic models, including 44 one-compartment and 36 two-compartment models. The most frequently retained covariates on clearance and distribution parameters were cytochrome P450 3A5 polymorphisms and body weight, respectively. Our simulation tool, hosted at https://lpmx.shinyapps.io/tacrolimus/ , allows thorough investigation of the impact of covariates on exposure and target attainment. We identified 15 model-informed precision dosing software tool providers, of which ten offer a tacrolimus solution and nine completed the survey. Our work provides a comprehensive overview of the landscape of available tacrolimus population pharmacokinetic models and model-informed precision dosing software modules. Our simulation tool allows an interactive thorough exploration of covariates on exposure and target attainment.

A Simulation-Based Approach to Teach Interaction Effects in Postgraduate Biostatistics Courses

Simulation-based teaching can be a valuable method for learning statistical concepts. Its practical implementation for health-related subjects is seldomly evaluated. We propose a simulation-based approach to teach interaction effects in a postgraduate biostatistics course. We describe the steps involved in organizing and implementing a simulation-based activity and evaluate its execution. Mainly master and doctoral students in medical sciences (public health/epidemiology) participated to a 3-hr long online workshop on interaction effects. We presented one main learning activity, broken down into six progressive steps, from visualizing an interaction effect to investigating samples leading to erroneous inference. A total of 85 people attended of which 53 filled out an evaluation survey. Most (89%) of the respondents reported that the proposed activities helped them better understand interaction effects. A qualitative content analysis of free-text answers indicated that learning activities focusing on interaction effects in this way were useful for developing an understanding of both the meaning of statistical models and their interpretations. We conclude that a simulation-based approach can be a useful and interactive tool to create a valuable learning experience. The materials provided in this article can serve as a starting point for teachers who wish to implement such a method.

Cognitive screening for children: Piloting a new battery of interactive games in 4- to 8-year-old children

Cognitive screening at the preschool age can be helpful in the early detection of possible difficulties before the start of school attendance as problems during schooling can have profound consequences. While interactive tools are still limited for the Czech population, tools used for cognitive screening at a younger age often consist of traditional pen-and-paper methods. Such examinations can be very demanding and time-consuming. This pilot study therefore focuses on the usability testing of a newly developed battery of interactive games used for the screening of selected cognitive functions in children aged four to eight in a less demanding and more attractive way. The battery consists of three interactive games testing (1) attention (selective attention), (2) executive functions (inhibitory control), (3) memory (episodic-like memory). The study sample included 24 participants of preschool or younger school age, ranging from 4 to 8 years old, girls = 12 (50%). The analyses also concentrated on the comparison of the newly designed screening tool with selected traditional test methods. The results suggest that the newly developed battery is feasible, and for children, it is entertaining and attractive. The designed cognitive battery is a promising tool for the screening of cognitive functions in younger school-age children.

Impact of an online decision support tool for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) using a pre-post design (AFT-25)

BackgroundThe heterogeneous biology of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), as well as the variable outcomes, in the setting of numerous treatment options have led to prognostic uncertainty. Consequently, making treatment decisions is challenging and necessitates involved communication between patient and provider about the risks and benefits. We developed and investigated an interactive decision support tool (DST) designed to improve communication of treatment options and related long-term risks for individuals diagnosed with DCIS.FindingsThe DST was developed for use by individuals aged > 40 years with DCIS and is based on a disease simulation model that integrates empirical data and clinical characteristics to predict patient-specific impacts of six DCIS treatment choices. Personalized risk predictions for each treatment option were communicated using icon arrays and percentages for each outcome. Users of the DST were asked before and after interacting with the DST about: (1) awareness of DCIS treatment options, (2) willingness to consider these options, (3) knowledge of risks associated with DCIS, and (4) helpfulness of the DST. Data were collected from January 2019 to April 2022. Users’ median estimated risk of dying from DCIS in 10 years decreased from 9% pre-tool to 3% post-tool (p < 0.0001). 76% (n = 101/132) found the tool helpful.ConclusionsInformation about DCIS treatment options and related risk predictions was effectively communicated, and a large majority participants found the DST to be helpful. Successfully informing patients about their treatment options and how their individual risks affect those options is a critical step in the decision-making process.Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02926911.

Application of Lean Startup Principles in the Improvement of Digital Platforms: a Case Study in a Solar Energy Company

Objective: The objective of this study is to improve a solar energy company's website by utilizing the principles of the Lean Startup methodology to meet customer expectations. Theoretical Framework: This study is based on the concepts of digital entrepreneurship and the Lean Startup methodology, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the digital environment and applying agile methodologies for technological innovation. Method: The research adopted a case study with a qualitative and descriptive approach. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews with customers and potential customers, as well as prototyping to validate the hypotheses raised. Results and Discussion: The results revealed that the main improvement needs include adding information about the company, adjusting visual elements, and incorporating interactive tools. The application of Lean Startup principles allowed for rapid iterations on the improvements, resulting in an increased perception of the website's credibility and usability by users. Research Implications: This research provides practical insights into the implementation of agile methodologies for the enhancement of digital products, highlighting the importance of continuous validation with users to achieve satisfactory results. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating the applicability of the Lean Startup methodology in a real context of digital product improvement, offering a replicable model for other companies seeking continuous innovation and customer satisfaction.

Examining Students' Attitudes Towards iPads as Interactive Multimedia Tools and their Impact on Learning Quality in Indonesian Private Secondary School

This study explores students' attitudes toward using iPads as interactive multimedia tools in learning Islamic education (PAI) and examines the impact of this approach on learning quality. With the growing integration of technology in education, understanding the effects of interactive multimedia like iPads on students' learning experiences is critical. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving both quantitative and qualitative analysis. A sample of 123 students from grades 7 to 9 was selected through stratified random sampling from a school that uses iPads in its learning system. Additionally, ten students were purposively chosen for interviews based on varying levels of iPad engagement. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings indicated that students generally had a positive attitude toward using iPads in PAI learning. In both quantitative and qualitative assessments, students described the iPad-based learning as "fun," "interesting," "flexible," and preferred over traditional textbooks. Regression analysis revealed a significant positive effect of students' attitudes on PAI learning quality (Sig = 0.000 0.05). Qualitative data further showed that using iPads improved comprehension, learning effectiveness, and outcomes. The positive attitudes toward iPads suggest that interactive multimedia can enhance student engagement and learning in PAI. This study highlights how the use of iPads positively impacts both the learning process and outcomes, supporting more effective Islamic education. This research demonstrates that students’ positive attitudes toward iPads significantly improve the quality of PAI learning. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating interactive multimedia tools like iPads in teaching to enhance student learning experiences.