Role In Decision Research Articles

Time and Distance Perception in Highly Dynamic Environments

Abstract Space- and time-based tasks, like flying airplanes, driving cars, or the manual controlled rendezvous and docking of spacecrafts can be very demanding for pilots, drivers, or astronauts, depending on selected trajectories, approaching speeds, or distracting information. One characteristic of highly dynamic environments is that persons have to consider their spatial position in relation to surrounding elements based on passing time, detected speed, and trajectories to avoid collisions with other objects. An inadequate perception of the own position in relation to other objects and passing time can lead to impaired decision-making processes, resulting in errors or collisions. A framework for the explanation of cognitive processes involved in perception, anticipation, and decision-making in dynamic environments is provided by the concept of situation awareness. Based on this framework persons must perceive relevant elements, integrate them in a coherent mental representation and anticipate the development of the current situation in the near future, to plan safe upcoming maneuvers. Thus, for safe maneuvers anticipation processes are playing a major role in decision-making and action selection. In this paper it is proposed that time and distance perceptions are central features of anticipation processes in dynamic situations. It is suggested to combine theories like the attentional-gate model and time-to-contact with the framework of situation awareness to explain anticipation processes in dynamic environments. The major aim is to develop precise cognitive models of persons acting in dynamic situations. Such cognitive models can be the basis for the development and parameterization of assistance systems, supporting anticipation in dynamic environments.

Abstract PO2-10-12: The devil is in the details: Workflow analysis of breast cancer treatment decision making and implications for decision support design

Abstract While numerous decision aids have been developed to support treatment decision-making in breast cancer1, widespread implementation remains limited due to challenges integrating these tools in clinical workflows2. Given these persistent issues, we need to better understand the complex workflows and needs of decision aid users - patients, their family caregivers, and breast cancer clinicians. Previous studies have explored various aspects of breast cancer team workflows3,4. Despite this work, it is still unclear how these complex workflows support or hinder decision aid use. In this study, we conducted an in-depth analysis of breast cancer team workflow to elicit design requirements for informatics tools to support patient-centered decision-making. This study was part of a larger project aimed at designing a COMputeried PAtient-centered Collaborative Technology (COMPACT) to support personalized decision-making for breast cancer patients. We conducted observations of clinicians and patients at one breast center, using a tablet computer with smart pen to take notes on all aspects of clinic workflow. We uploaded all observation notes into a qualitative data analysis software, Dedoose. Two researchers coded the observations in an inductive, consensus-based process. We met to review our codes and identify key themes emerging in the data. We observed 95 hours and 127 patient encounters across 20 clinician-centered and 8 patient-centered observations. We identified 10 themes related to the design of decision support, which we grouped into the 4 components of workflow6 (see Table 1). We identified numerous patient-specific factors communicated from the patient to the clinical team that influenced treatment decision-making. These “decision factors” covered the broader scope of the patient’s life that was important in the decision-making process (e.g., upcoming family wedding, work). Patients were frequently “knowledge brokers” and were asked to remember and relay information across members of the care team. We identified 28 different tools and technologies used to support treatment decision-making. Patient family caregivers (e.g., aunt, husband) played an important role in treatment decision-making. Based on these findings, we developed design requirements for informatics tools to better support patients (and clinicians). Our study highlights the complexity and interdependence of breast cancer treatment decision-making. Patients frequently made treatment decisions that influenced subsequent decisions. Decision aids typically focus on one decision or one care specialty and do not support consideration of several treatment options at one time1. Future research is needed to determine if and how decision support tools could incorporate the broader scope and interdependence between decisions to support patient-centered care. We highlight the need for informatics tools to consider the diverse and unique decision factors (e.g., hobbies) that are crucial to patient-centered decision-making. Decision support could help to elicit and incorporate these factors during treatment decision-making. However, the variable nature of these patient-specific factors presents a challenge to decision support design. Further research is needed to determine how to optimally incorporate such factors into decision support tools. We found inadequate system support for clinicians’ tasks including limited feedback loops to notify clinicians of completed tasks (e.g., mammogram, genetic testing). As a result, patients were often responsible for relaying information to and between different members of the clinical team. Given that patients only remember 50% of what clinicians tell them during visits7, a better system is needed to improve the reliability of information transfer. Our design guidelines can be used to improve the design of decision support tools and ultimately improve patient-centered decision-making. Table 1. Workflow components, themes, and associated challenges to decision support design Citation Format: Megan Salwei, Carrie Reale. The devil is in the details: Workflow analysis of breast cancer treatment decision making and implications for decision support design [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-10-12.

Role of Social Media in Investment Decision-making: A Comprehensive Review and Future Roadmap

In recent years, the importance of social media has grown analytically, emphasizing the importance of an appropriate framework that can clarify its role in financial investment decision-making. This essay aims to establish a link between social media use and stock market participation. We used the SPAR-4-SLR technique with theory, context, characteristics and methodology framework analysis to conduct a systematic literature review of essential journal articles published between 2013 and 2023. This review summarizes theoretical and empirical research on social media use and stock market participation. By revealing a significant association between social media use and stock market participation and explaining the impact of other elements that remain unresearched, this study has added a new perspective to the literature. This study will help financial specialists, economic institutions and policymakers design better stock market strategies, make financial decisions and add to the body of knowledge concerning the relationship between social impact and SMP.

Abstract PO5-05-04: Advancing Treatment and Management of Patients with HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer: Findings from a Quality Improvement Initiative

Abstract Background: With the advent of novel oral oncolytics, the cancer care delivery model for HR+/HER2- breast cancer (BC) is evolving, shifting the responsibility for medication adherence and monitoring and managing of side effects to patients and their caregivers. In this quality improvement (QI) initiative, we aimed to uncover and address gaps in patient and provider education, risk reduction, adverse event management, and shared decision-making in order to improve outcomes for HR+/HER2+ patients on oral oncolytics. Methods: From 9/2022 to 12/2022, 54 HCPs who treat breast cancer and 111 HR+/HER2- BC patients from 4 US community oncology clinics completed surveys assessing attitudes, values, and challenges related to practice patterns, education, and therapy adherence in HR+/HER2- BC. HCPs participated in audit-feedback sessions to reflect on survey results and their own practice, and developed action plans to improve care, which were implemented in subsequent collaborative patient-provider learning sessions. Results: Top reported HCP challenges in HR+/HER2- BC care include providing patient-centered supportive care measures (32%), patient adherence/lack of follow up (22%), and individualizing treatment plans (17%). Additionally, 43% of providers reported that improved collaboration across interprofessional teams would most improve care. Top reported patient challenges include worry about and/or difficulty managing side effects from treatment (26%), difficulty scheduling visits with many different HCPs/following up (24%), and difficulty communicating with healthcare teams (16%). In surveys, 28% of patients reported frequently or very frequently missing/skipping doses of oral breast cancer medication. Top reasons for missing/skipping doses included forgetting or not having it nearby (36%), cost (21%), and side effects (20%). To address the top challenges identified in baseline surveys, HCPs developed and implemented action plans, such as improving the identification of patients at high risk of recurrence, establishing patient-provider educational sessions, increasing the use of patient navigators, incorporating oral adherence toolkits, and educating patients and staff about available supportive care resources. After implementation of patient-provider collaborative education sessions at community clinics, patients reporting high levels of knowledge about BC treatment options and communicating side effects/symptoms increased from 27% to 57%, and 37% to 77%, respectively. At 60-day follow-up, 58% of patients reported taking a more active role in treatment decision-making, and 52% reported setting reminders/alarms/using apps to remember to take medication on time. Conclusions: Patient adherence to oral oncolytic medications remains a challenge in BC treatment. This quality improvement initiative uncovered underlying barriers to effective treatment management of HR+/HER2- breast cancer patients on oral oncolytics. Action plans and educational resources were developed and implemented to address identified barriers and optimize treatment management for HR+/HER2- BC. These methods and findings represent key opportunities for improvement that can be implemented in community oncology practices to improve adherence to oral oncolytics and overall HR+/HER2- breast cancer care. Citation Format: Jane Meisel, Chelsie Anderson, Ilona Dewald, Jeffrey Carter, Cherilyn Heggen, Kelly McKinnon. Advancing Treatment and Management of Patients with HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer: Findings from a Quality Improvement Initiative [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO5-05-04.

"Too young to have this kind of diagnosis": A qualitative exploration of younger adults' experiences of colorectal cancer diagnosis.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is rising among adults under the age of 50 (early- or young-onset CRC). This population is more likely to have advanced-stage disease at diagnosis, suggesting their diagnostic pathway may be prolonged. To better understand factors influencing this pathway, this study explored patients' experiences of decision-making during a diagnosis of young-onset CRC. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 participants with young-onset CRC diagnosed in 2021-2022 in Victoria, Australia. Interviews were conducted online or by phone an average 7months (range 1-13) after diagnosis. Analysis was approached from a critical realist perspective, with themes developed inductively using reflexive thematic analysis. Five themes were identified: Shifting Perception of Urgency, Multidimensional Perception of Role, Making the Most of Resources, Stage of Life, and COVID Adds Complexity. Participants' decision-making evolved over the diagnostic period. As participants perceived urgency to act, they took on a more active role in decision-making, utilising personal resources to access timely care. Their decisions were shaped by stage-of-life considerations, including employment and caring for a young family, with the COVID-19 pandemic adding "…a whole other layer of complexity" to the process. Younger adults with CRC make decisions in the context of unique considerations, adapting to reduce time to diagnosis, with decisions complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Greater support from health care providers/systems in the diagnostic period may improve timeliness of CRC diagnosis and outcomes in younger adults.

A network-based modeling framework reveals the core signal transduction network underlying high carbon dioxide-induced stomatal closure in guard cells.

Stomata are pores on plant aerial surfaces, each bordered by a pair of guard cells. They control gas exchange vital for plant survival. Understanding how guard cells respond to environmental signals such as atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels is not only insightful to fundamental biology but also relevant to real-world issues of crop productivity under global climate change. In the past decade, multiple important signaling elements for stomatal closure induced by elevated CO2 have been identified. Yet, there is no comprehensive understanding of high CO2-induced stomatal closure. In this work, we assemble a cellular signaling network underlying high CO2-induced stomatal closure by integrating evidence from a comprehensive literature analysis. We further construct a Boolean dynamic model of the network, which allows in silico simulation of the stomatal closure response to high CO2 in wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana plants and in cases of pharmacological or genetic manipulation of network nodes. Our model has a 91% accuracy in capturing known experimental observations. We perform network-based logical analysis and reveal a feedback core of the network, which dictates cellular decisions in closure response to high CO2. Based on these analyses, we predict and experimentally confirm that applying nitric oxide (NO) induces stomatal closure in ambient CO2 and causes hypersensitivity to elevated CO2. Moreover, we predict a negative regulatory relationship between NO and the protein phosphatase ABI2 and find experimentally that NO inhibits ABI2 phosphatase activity. The experimental validation of these model predictions demonstrates the effectiveness of network-based modeling and highlights the decision-making role of the feedback core of the network in signal transduction. We further explore the model's potential in predicting targets of signaling elements not yet connected to the CO2 network. Our combination of network science, in silico model simulation, and experimental assays demonstrates an effective interdisciplinary approach to understanding system-level biology.

A Study on The Social Media Influence on Financial Decisions

Abstract: This research explores how social media influences investment decisions among Generation X, millennials, and Generation Z, known for their heavy use of digital technology. Using quantitative methods and surveys, the study examines individuals from different age groups on social media platforms. Results show a significant link between social media engagement and investment choices across all generations. Investment firms are urged to use social media for marketing and communication to reach a wider audience. The study emphasizes the need for financial literacy across generations in an era where social media plays a crucial role in financial decision-making. It advocates for tailored strategies to engage each demographic while promoting universal financial literacy.

Legal proof: why knowledge matters and knowing does not

I discuss the knowledge account of legal proof in Moss (2023) and develop an alternative. The unifying thread throughout this article are reflections on the beyond reasonable doubt (BRD) standard of proof.  In Section 1, I will introduce the details of Moss’s account and how she motivates it via the BRD standard. In Section 2, I will argue that there are important disanalogies between BRD and knowledge that undermine Moss’s argument. There is however another motivation for the knowledge account: combined with auxiliary claims, that is probabilistic knowledge and moral encroachment, it can provide a general solution to the puzzle of statistical evidence. Section 3 spells out the details. In Section 4, I suggest to combine the knowledge account with pragmatic encroachment, instead of moral encroachment, in order to stay clear of the thorny issues whether corporations have moral rights. In Section 5, I argue that the verdicts of Moss’s account in cases of false justified beliefs and non-luminous knowledge conflict with the BRD standard and thus call for abandoning the account. Based on the social function of the BRD standard, I suggest a replacement for the knowledge account that is also just as potent as a general solution for the puzzle of statistical evidence. While I will grant that knowledge is neither always necessary nor always sufficient for convictions, I will argue that the concept of knowledge nonetheless plays a significant and ineliminable role in legal decision-making.

How textbook images frame the gender roles of women in science and elsewhere: a content analysis of elementary school science textbooks

ABSTRACT Based on the concepts of gender framing and gender categorisation, this content analysis evaluates the images of adults (N = 1655) and the portrayal of women from the 6 series of science textbooks authorised by the Japanese Ministry of Education for use in elementary school science classes in the 2022 academic year. The images were counted and coded according to the activities the participants were engaged in. Data were then analysed according to three potential patterns for transmission of gender roles – invisibility, low stature, and domesticity. The content analysis showed differences between the 6 series in terms of their portrayal of women and of female scientists, however, across all series, there were fewer women portrayed than men, fewer female scientists than male, and fewer women were presented as important ‘people to study’. Women were less likely to be shown in high-status decision-making roles, as demonstrating ‘brilliance’, or as being rewarded or recognised for their scientific achievements. They were, however, more likely than men to be depicted in images connected to themes of domesticity than as scientists or in other professional situations. Domestic themes such as childcare could still be seen in images of female scientists or women at work.

Understanding Party Realignment Dynamics: Insights from Malaysian Voters in the Batang Kali Context

ABSTRACT Malaysian politics witnesses a remarkable phenomenon of frequent shifts in voter party preferences, indicating a high level of volatility in political allegiances during elections. This study uses the Theory of Reasoned Action as a framework to examine how voting intention influences party realignment among Malaysian. It explores the impact of attitudes, subjective norms related to ethnic identity, and candidate image on party preferences. The research utilized a quantitative approach with proportionate stratified random sampling. A self-administered survey questionnaire was distributed to 450 participants, maintaining a ratio of 5:1:1 across race and voting districts. These participants represented diverse ethnic backgrounds within the Batang Kali State Constituency, Malaysia. Conducting the study in Batang Kali offers access to relevant populations and facilitates representative sampling, contextual insights, and comparative analysis. Findings suggest that voter attitudes and candidate image play significant roles in decision-making, outweighing subjective norms related to ethnic identity. Subjective norms are not the primary driver of party realignment in a multicultural context. Personal beliefs notably shape voter attitudes, with a candidate's image overshadowing the influence of voting attitude. These insights enhance our understanding of the interplay between subjective norms, attitudes, and candidate images within Malaysia's diverse social landscape, particularly in Batang Kali. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing candidate image and voters' egocentric attitudes in political campaigns over subjective norms associated with ethnic identity.

Social learning and the acquisition of information and knowledge—a network approach for the case of technology adoption

Abstract The complexity of agricultural innovations and heterogeneity of circumstances of technology application, outcomes, and social network structures have often led to obstacles in social learning and suboptimal adoption. In this article, we examine technology diffusion by focusing on the roles of peer adoption decision, peer experience, and network structures, using survey data from 500 farm households in Northern Ghana to generate social network contacts. Our results reveal that learning from peer experiences matter more in the diffusion process than just peer adoption decisions alone. We also find that social learning and the likelihood of adoption are higher when peers are central nodes, and particularly when they belong to cohesive subgroups, but lower when they are in highly segregated networks. Our results shed new light on the role of central agents, since highly cohesive neighbourhoods seem to promote diffusion more in high-modularity networks than central nodes.

Exploring the role of the pharmacist within the Hospital@Home team at a tertiary centre in England

Abstract Introduction Hospital@Home (H@H) is an emerging healthcare model providing hospital-level care within patients’ homes (1). Despite its global presence for three decades, H@H adoption remains limited in the United Kingdom. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted National Health Service (NHS) England to promote virtual wards, including H@H, as an innovative care alternative (2). Among the pivotal functions in H@H are prescribing, administering, or stopping medications, where pharmacists play a critical role, undertaking these tasks along with the multidisciplinary team (MDT). However, there has been little research that investigates pharmacists’ scope of practice in H@H. Aim To explore the role of the pharmacist within the H@H team at a tertiary centre in England. Methods A qualitive study was conducted using 1) online (via Microsoft Teams) or in-person audio-recorded semi-structured interviews with pharmacists working in the tertiary centre’s H@H team, and 2) non-participant observations of purposively sampled MDT H@H team meetings; heart failure, general care and antibiotic. Pharmacists’ collaboration with MDT members, tasks they performed and how the MDT made decisions were the focus of the observations. Interview transcripts and observation field notes were concurrently analysed inductively to generate key themes. All three H@H pharmacists were approached to take part in the study. All members of the respective MDTs were recruited to take part in the observations. All participants gave informed consent. Results All three H@H pharmacists participated in interviews. Six MDT meetings were observed, attended by doctors (n=7), nurses (n=8) and pharmacists (n=3). Interviews lasted approximately 45 minutes each and MDT meetings lasted 30-120 minutes. Four main themes were generated from the analysis: 1. Scope of practice extends beyond a “traditional” pharmacist. 2. Being open-minded to a changing scope of practice. 3. Active collaboration with MDT members underpins and expands role. 4. Is intentional about, and advocates for the provision of patient-centered care. Pharmacists’ varied scope of practice (e.g. participating/co-leading MDT meetings and conducting home visits) placed them in pivotal roles in patient care coordination, treatment planning, and decision-making. Pharmacists were open-minded and proactive in expanding the scope of H@H care, and their role. They continuously acquired new skills as they encounter and provide diverse care scenarios. Their specialised knowledge and skillsets were viewed by the MDT as an asset. Pharmacists were reflective practitioners, saw patients as complex individuals with specific needs to care for and advocated for their needs. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first study exploring the role of the H@H pharmacist in England, adding to the knowledge base in this emerging service delivery; pharmacists undertake non-traditional clinical roles in the team, work collaboratively with others to expand the service and their own skillset, to advocate for the need of patients. Although only three pharmacists were interviewed, this was the entire available sample. The study did not include home visit observations, which could provide insights into pharmacists’ interactions with patients in their homes. Future research can focus on complementing the findings of this study with in-depth exploration of the pharmacist’s role in H@H settings.

On Some Demographic Structures and Economic Growth in Nigeria (2003–2022)

Effective development planning necessitates the integration of sound social and economic planning strategies. In Nigeria, demographic  and population data play a crucial role in shaping these plans. This research investigates the impact of demographic structure on the  country's economy, with a specific focus on key characteristics such as population size, birth rate, mortality rate, growth rate, GDP growth  rate, and fertility rate. The study analyzes demographic features alongside GDP growth rate data spanning from 2003 to 2022.  The findings reveal a robust correlation between birth rates and GDP growth, indicating that population dynamics significantly influence  economic development. Additionally, positive relationships are identified between death rates and GDP growth, underscoring the impact  of mortality issues on economic outcomes. The regression model demonstrates that demographic factors collectively mold Nigeria's  economic growth trajectory, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between demography and economic development. Through time  series analysis, the model exhibits low errors and high explanatory power. However, residual analysis highlights serial association,  emphasizing the temporal demographic effects on economic growth. Ultimately, the study underscores the potential contributions of  demographic characteristics to Nigeria's economy. Policymakers and economists keen on leveraging demographic shifts for economic  advancement will find valuable insights in this research. As demographic considerations increasingly play a pivotal role in Nigeria's  economic growth, strategic planning and decision-making must take these factors into account.

Combined blood Neurofilament light chain and third ventricle width to differentiate Progressive Supranuclear Palsy from Parkinson's Disease: A machine learning study

IntroductionDifferentiating Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) from Parkinson's Disease (PD) may be clinically challenging. In this study, we explored the performance of machine learning models based on MR imaging and blood molecular biomarkers in distinguishing between these two neurodegenerative diseases. MethodsTwenty-eight PSP patients, 46 PD patients and 60 control subjects (HC) were consecutively enrolled in the study. Serum concentration of neurofilament light chain protein (Nf-L) was assessed by single molecule array (SIMOA), while an automatic segmentation algorithm was employed for T1-weighted measurements of third ventricle width/intracranial diameter ratio (3rdV/ID). Machine learning (ML) models with Logistic Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), and XGBoost algorithms based on 3rdV/ID and serum Nf-L levels were tested in distinguishing among PSP, PD and HC. ResultsPSP patients showed higher serum Nf-L levels and larger 3rdV/ID ratio in comparison with both PD and HC groups (p < 0.005). All ML algorithms (LR, RF and XGBoost) showed that the combination of MRI and blood biomarkers had excellent classification performances in differentiating PSP from PD (AUC ≥0.92), outperforming each biomarker used alone (AUC: 0.85–0.90). Among the different algorithms, XGBoost was slightly more powerful than LR and RF in distinguishing PSP from PD patients, reaching AUC of 0.94 ± 0.04. ConclusionOur findings highlight the usefulness of combining blood and simple linear MRI biomarkers to accurately distinguish between PSP and PD patients. This multimodal approach may play a pivotal role in patient management and clinical decision-making, paving the way for more effective and timely interventions in these neurodegenerative diseases.

Exploring Symphysio-Fundal Height and Abdominal Girth in Predicting Fetal Weight: Lessons from Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania

Background: Estimating fetal weight plays a crucial role in decision-making, particularly in high-risk pregnancies when determining the timing and method of delivery. In resource-limited settings where ultrasound availability is limited, Symphysio-Fundal Height and Abdominal Girth (clinical method) have been utilized as a substitute for predicting fetal weight. However, the accuracy of this clinical method has not been assessed locally. This study seeks to evaluate the precision of clinical method in estimating fetal weight and its correlation with the actual birth weight at Bugando Medical Centre. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Lake Zone area of Tanzania at Bugando Medical Centre. The study conveniently enrolled 400 mothers with singleton pregnancies who were admitted for normal vaginal delivery, elective cesarean section, or induction of labor. Fetal weight was estimated using clinical methods and compared with the birth weight at delivery. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, employing descriptive statistics such as frequency, mean, and standard deviation. The relationship between estimated fetal weight, and birth weight were examined using the Chi-square and Pearson's correlation coefficient. A P-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The study participants had an average age of 29.13 years (± 5.346). Our analysis revealed that the mean estimated fetal weight slightly exceeded the actual birth weight, with values of 3495 grams and 3250 grams, respectively. Notably, this difference was statistically significant with a P-value &lt; 0.001, indicating the clinical method's tendency to overestimate fetal weight. Furthermore, the clinical method showed a strong positive correlation with actual birth weight (correlation coefficient = 0.7309, p-value &lt; 0.001), demonstrating its reliability in fetal weight estimation. The positive linear correlation between clinical fetal weight ...........

Review of trends regarding artificial intelligence and its prospects for procedural decisions during criminal proceeding

Discussions on the advantages and risks of artificial intelligence (AI) in various fields are among the most relevant today. It is evident that proponents and opponents of its implementation have existed, exist, and will continue to exist. However, it is undeniable that with each scientific and technological advancement, humanity has the opportunity to improve or worsen the quality of its existence. Therefore, it is crucial to establish rules for developers and users who must be aware of the existing threats posed by the use of a particular tool, despite or in defiance of these limitations. This overview aims to explore how various aspects of our lives, including the legal sphere, are changing due to the widespread availability and increasing accessibility of artificial intelligence (AI). It seeks to clarify the role of the state as a regulator and implementer of relevant functions, the rules developers and users must adhere to, the aspects of AI usage already accessible to the legal sector, and how AI can assist in decision-making during criminal proceedings (while still leaving the leading role in decision-making and choice of alternatives to humans). It also discusses the prospects ahead and the myths that need to be overcome for progress. Through analysis and synthesis, it has been observed that threats from harmful AI are present, especially when it is deployed not for socially beneficial or human-centric purposes. Regulation of the AI sphere is crucial in all its aspects, starting from ethical considerations and ensuring an anthropocentric approach to AI development and usage, and ending with cutting-edge developments, including AI applications in various fields, such as the creation of new product designs like confectionery. Despite potential risks and threats, the use of artificial intelligence can have advantages, but careful regulation of this area is necessary. It is also noted that regulating AI to the detriment of progressive development should be avoided. It is argued that in the legal and law enforcement sectors, AI assistance can bring many benefits, but its use must be accompanied by a full awareness of the axiom that “AI systems for justice and law enforcement are considered ‘high risks’.” Therefore, before actively applying AI, especially in this realm, it is essential to establish clear boundaries and rules, and importantly, accountability for any harm caused. Such sensitive aspects as the integrity of human privacy, respect for human rights, and the like should prevail in this mechanism.

Analysis of the Impact of Equity Incentives on Corporate Performance

Equity incentive is a long-term incentive mechanism implemented by enterprises to motivate and retain core talents, and is one of the most commonly used methods to motivate employees. Equity incentives have been developed from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present day to form a relatively complete and mature system, and their dynamic evolution and key role in corporate governance (employee loyalty), executive compensation, and investor decision-making make them of far-reaching research significance. Also, the equity incentives of enterprises play a crucial role in their development. The purpose of this paper is to comprehensively summarize and analyze the development and classification of these incentives. In addition, this paper focuses on the equity incentive policies of Tesla and Xiaomi and explores how and why incentivizing two target groups, namely executives and employees, affects corporate performance, as well as making a side-by-side comparison, and gives some suggestions for future equity incentives.

Women's Knowledge of Genomic Testing and Precision Medicine in Breast Cancer Treatment Decision-Making.

To understand awareness of genetic and genomic testing, as well as decision-making, in women diagnosed with breast cancer. 29 African American/Black and Latina/Hispanic women diagnosed with breast cancer. A semistructured interview guide was used in focus groups conducted via videoconference. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Many of the women understood the concept of genetic testing to identify the BRCA1/BRCA2 variant, but none of them were aware of genomic testing and its implications for personalized medicine. Participants discussed provider and patient roles in treatment decision-making, identifying roles that the physician might play in treatment planning, from primary decision-maker to collaborator. As the number of precision cancer treatments expands, patients must be able to comprehend the information provided to make informed decisions about their treatment. Providers should do a better job of explaining potential treatments so that patients feel they are part of the decision-making process. Addressing gaps in treatment access and uptake requires providers to prioritize patient engagement and understanding.

A complex methodology for the development of mathematical modeling skills in engineering education

AbstractToday, the role of humans is changing rapidly in both industrial production activities and services. Mediocre, easy-to-learn activities can be performed more efficiently by machines; mediocre knowledge is being devalued while the importance of high-level skills is increasing. As a result, in all sectors of the economy, and especially in engineering, new approaches to expert training are needed; people must learn to hand over certain decision-making roles and to control the processes supported by AI rather than compete with it. STEM education has a responsibility to achieve these goals and must develop appropriate tools for engineering education. This paper presents a complex didactic methodology for competency-based education in engineering bachelor programs. An important element is the mathematical competency map, which shows the importance and place of mathematical and algorithmic (coding) knowledge in engineering topics. Another element is the systematic testing of mathematical knowledge in non-mathematical contexts in engineering courses. We provide an overview of our achievements in applying the developed toolset and improving the efficiency of mathematics teaching in engineering bachelor programs.

Makkah healthcare cluster response, challenges, and interventions during COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study

BackgroundThe global COVID-19 crisis has underscored the critical role of effective decision-making in healthcare systems. Saudi Arabia has shown resilience by implementing comprehensive testing, tracing, and vaccination measures. Given the unique cultural and religious characteristics of Makkah, specific challenges have prompted efforts to uncover local pandemic responses. This qualitative assessment aims to delineate the challenges faced by decision-makers during COVID-19 in Makkah and identify key interventions implemented by the Makkah healthcare cluster to manage and coordinate care. MethodUtilizing a purposive sampling approach, executive leaders within the Makkah Healthcare Cluster were invited for semi-structured interviews during the COVID-19 period. Thematic analysis was carried out in five steps, ensuring rigor and trustworthiness through multiple checks, and employing a critical and collaborative approach. ResultThroughout the COVID-19 outbreak in Makkah, participants revealed Several factors that have hindered healthcare organizations' ability to effectively manage the pandemic, including testing difficulties, resource shortages, vaccination misconceptions, continuity of care issues, infections among healthcare workers, and the need for consistent protocols. The participant leaders in Makkah's healthcare cluster specified implemented strategies that helped in overcoming the encountered challenges, such as adopting new technologies, enhancing communication, managing supply and demand, and improving workforce adaptability and development. Their experience in managing Hajj and Umrah provided valuable insights for handling the pandemic effectively. ConclusionThe study emphasizes the significance of technology adoption, effective communication, supply management, workforce development, and lessons from managing religious events. Its findings have implications for healthcare systems globally, emphasizing the importance of preparedness, response, and resilience in diverse cultural contexts.