Scientific Theories Research Articles

A Holistic Network Analysis of the Money Laundering Threat Landscape: Assessing Criminal Typologies, Resilience and Implications for Disruption

Abstract Objective This article visualises money laundering, a crime spanning hundreds of different actors, methods and value instruments, as a network. Possible combinations of money laundering actions and schemes are analysed through a holistic visualisation to draw policy-relevant insights into their prevention. Methods A prior scoping review of money laundering typologies identified 793 activities that a money launderer can take to obfuscate illicit funds. These actions form the basis of a directed network graph showcasing all possible combinations of money laundering schemes. Three network-based analyses are then conducted: (1) centrality analysis, to determine the most ‘important’ money laundering actions as priorities for prevention, (2) resilience analysis to simulate iterative interventions against different money laundering actions to assess their impact on the wider network and (3) subgroup analysis to identify groups of commonly undertaken schemes (i.e. “typologies”). Results Money laundering is found to be a highly resilient process crime, with specific interventions often unable to prevent schemes from displacing to alternative activities to launder their funds. However, benefits of tactically displacing criminals to more easily detectable schemes are discussed. The formulation of money laundering typologies through more empirically robust processes is also motivated, in place of compartmentalised reports that remain the current standard practice. Conclusions Network analysis is motivated as an effective way of visualising complex process crimes with vast criminal opportunities such as money laundering, allowing policy-relevant insights to be drawn in terms of resource-allocation, strategy and prioritisation. Theoretical and policy implications of the current study are discussed in the context of crime scientific theories.

Adaptive AI Alignment: Established Resources for Aligning Machine Learning with Human Intentions and Values in Changing Environments

AI Alignment is a term used to summarize the aim of making artificial intelligence (AI) systems behave in line with human intentions and values. There has been little consideration in previous AI Alignment studies of the need for AI Alignment to be adaptive in order to contribute to the survival of human organizations in changing environments. This research gap is addressed here by defining human intentions and values in terms of survival biophysics: entropy, complexity, and adaptive behavior. Furthermore, although technology alignment has been a focus of studies for more than thirty years, there has been little consideration in AI Alignment studies of established resources for aligning technologies. Unlike the current focus of AI Alignment on addressing potential AI risks, technology alignment is generally focused on aligning with opportunities. Established resources include the critical realist philosophy of science, scientific theories, total quality management practices, technology alignment methods, engineering techniques, and technology standards. Here, these established resources are related to the alignment of different types of machine learning with different levels of human organizations. In addition, established resources are related to a well-known hypothetical extreme example of AI Misalignment, and to major constructs in the AI Alignment literature. Overall, it is argued that AI Alignment needs to be adaptive in order for human organizations to be able to survive in changing environments, and that established resources can facilitate Adaptive AI Alignment which addresses risks while focusing on opportunities.

The Polarization Loop: How Emotions Drive Propagation of Disinformation in Online Media—The Case of Conspiracy Theories and Extreme Right Movements in Southern Europe

This paper examines the influence of emotions on political polarization, looking at online propagation of conspiracy thinking by extreme right movements in Southern Europe. Integrating insights from psychology, political science, media studies, and system theory, we propose the ‘polarization loop’, a causal mechanism explaining the cyclical relationship between extreme messages, emotional engagement, media amplification, and societal polarization. We illustrate the utility of the polarization loop observing the use of the Great Replacement Theory by extreme right movements in Italy, Portugal, and Spain. We suggest possible options to mitigate the negative effects of online polarization in democracy, including public oversight of algorithmic decission-making, involving social science and humanities in algorithmic design, and strengthening resilience of citizenship to prevent emotional overflow. We encourage interdisciplinary research where historical analysis can guide computational methods such as Natural Language Processing (NLP), using Large Language Models fine-tunned consistently with political science research. Provided the intimate nature of emotions, the focus of connected research should remain on structural patterns rather than individual behavior, making it explicit that results derived from this research cannot be applied as the base for decisions, automated or not, that may affect individuals.

Must Scientific Realists Respond to The Challenge of the PMI?

The Pessimistic Meta-Induction (PMI) says that because most past scientific theories turned out to be false, we have no reason to believe in the truthfulness of our current scientific theories. According to current consensus, this anti-realist argument presents a serious challenge to which proponents of the realist conception of science must give a response. In accordance with this requirement, some scientific realists try to demonstrate that PMI is a fallacious argument. Other realists make an attempt to block the pessimistic conclusion. The present paper offers a new perspective on the debate between scientific anti-realists and traditional scientific realists. The main argument consists of two interrelated steps. First, a structural analysis of the dialectical status of PMI is provided demonstrating that the anti-realists’ argument is internally unstable. Second, it is argued, on that basis, that an internally unstable argument like the PMI does not require any strategic response from the opponents’ side. This suggests that the consensus view is wrong: scientific realists need not respond to the challenge of PMI.

An Exploratory Study: Controversial Beliefs and Practices of Hijama Practitioners of Karachi, Pakistan

Background: Cultural and spiritual beliefs have preserved the use of traditional practices, including al hijama (wet cupping), which is widely recognized for its purported therapeutic value and historical significance. Despite its popularity, the practice often lacks formal training and is frequently administered by unqualified practitioners, leading to false beliefs and potentially unsafe practices. Objective: To investigate the scientific knowledge and beliefs of hijama practitioners of Karachi, Pakistan, with a focus on identifying misconceptions, variations in practice, and the influence of cultural and religious beliefs on the practice of hijama therapy. Methodology: A cross-sectional exploratory study was conducted involving 114 hijama practitioners from Karachi, who were recruited through various WhatsApp groups and enrolled in a seminar held in January 2023. The participants were required to complete a 37-item questionnaire covering their qualifications, practice methods, hygiene standards, and beliefs about the hijama therapy. Data were analyzed using spss version 20, employing mean, standard deviation, chi-square tests, and frequency distribution. Results: Most participants (97.4%) were female, with only 39.5% possessing a license to practice. Many practitioners (89.5%) were motivated by the religious significance of hijama. The knowledge regarding the scientific theories and mechanism of action of hijama therapy was known by 56.4%. Practices varied widely regarding hygiene, blade type, and cup placement. 38.1% did not consistently check for infectious diseases. Additionally, the practice of reciting Qur’anic verses was widespread, believed to enhance the therapy's effectiveness which shows strong religious connotation. Conclusion: The study reveals a substantial gap in formal training among hijama practitioners, leading to variations in practice and potential safety concerns. There is a pressing need for standardized training and regulations to ensure the safe and effective practice of hijama therapy. Further research is essential to establish evidence-based guidelines which improve the public and physician awareness towards this therapy’s risks and benefits.

Quantum Entanglement and Nonlocality: Challenging the Local Realism of Classical Physics

Abstract. This paper delves into the significance and impact of quantum entanglement across the fields of physics, information science, and philosophy. Utilizing a literature review approach, the paper first introduces the concept and historical background of quantum entanglement, emphasizing its challenge to the limitations of classical physics and its potential applications in quantum communication and quantum computing. This paper thoroughly explains the theoretical foundations of the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen experiment and Bell's inequality, along with related experimental validations and key results. In particular, it elucidates how quantum entanglement reveals the nonlocality in quantum mechanics and the characteristics of nonlocal information transfer. The discussion then shifts to the challenge quantum entanglement poses to physical ontology, exploring the philosophical implications and the new perspectives it offers in information theory. Finally, this study concludes by summarizing the profound impact of quantum entanglement as one of the most challenging and inspiring research areas in contemporary physics on scientific theory and philosophical thought, as well as anticipating future research directions and potential applications.

Ancient Indian epistemology and modern cognitive science: Exploring vedic insights in contemporary thought processes

Background: This article explores the connections between the concept of anviksiki in Hindu philosophy and theories in cognitive science, and how these principles can be applied in modern education. Anviksiki, which focuses on critical thinking and deep reflection, is considered to have strong relevance to cognitive science concepts such as information processing, perception, and decision-making. Methods: The method used in this research is literature study and comparative analysis, by reviewing various literatures that discuss Hindu philosophy and cognitive science in depth. The analysis shows that anviksiki can provide an additional perspective in understanding how humans think and process information, especially in the context of moral and ethical reflection. Finding: In education, the principle of anviksiki that emphasises self-reflection and critical thinking can enrich students' learning process. This concept supports active learning methods that allow students to construct their own understanding, in a way that is in line with Piaget's theory of constructivism. In addition, cognitive science provides practical insights into information processing and memory, which can be used to design more effective teaching strategies. Conclusion: The conclusion of this study confirms that anviksiki can be integrated with cognitive science to create a holistic approach to education, which enriches intellectual, ethical and reflective aspects. By combining Hindu wisdom and cognitive science insights, education can support the development of balanced individuals, who are able to think critically and understand the moral consequences of their decisions. This research reveals that Anviksiki, as a philosophy of critical thinking in the Hindu tradition, has strong relevance to concepts in modern cognitive science, particularly in analytic approaches, logic, and deductive methods. Thus, the heritage of Hindu thought not only demonstrates traditional wisdom but also presents a philosophical foundation that supports contemporary cognitive exploration. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research offers a new perspective by bridging the ancient philosophy of Anviksiki with modern cognitive science, demonstrating the continuity of concepts in the critical thinking process involving logical analysis and deductive methods. It provides new insights in understanding the contribution of the Hindu tradition of thought to the development of cognitive theory today.

Research on the Correlation between Quantum Entanglement and Thinking Consciousness

The development of quantum technology has profoundly influenced research on consciousness. By analyzing the interaction of various microscopic particles in the universe, the article proposed that all things exhibit interconnected non-locality in both time and space, and that the interrelated connections of everything in the universe are based on quantum entanglement. Through analysis of the cellular and nervous system functions of organisms, as well as the influence of quantum science theories on consciousness and combined with research results in related fields, this paper presents the following viewpoints: first, life bodies exhibit quantum entanglement phenomena. Second, biological electricity phenomena are closely tied to consciousness. Third, both life bodies and non-life bodies are conscious, but different entities exhibit varying degrees of strong and weak consciousness. The strong and weak thinking consciousness influences the fluctuation of quantum and the size of quantum entanglement degree. Quantum fluctuations affect the consciousness of both life bodies and non-life bodies, and the entanglement quantum influences the degree of inductance between each other. Finally, the combination of quantum entanglement technology and thinking consciousness can realize the interconnection between human beings and the universe. Consciousness may affect the results measured in quantum mechanics when people observe. However, the macroscopic world mainly adopts the laws of classical physics to solve problems in life. Under certain conditions, the law of quantum physics and the law of classical physics can affect people’s lives together. No matter what angle we view the material world, it is real, and the universe is not illusory.

Teologi Islam dan Kosmologi: Penciptaan Alam Semesta Menurut Al-Qur'an, Konsep Multiverse, dan Hubungan Teori Evolusi dengan Ajaran Islam dalam Perspektif Sains Modern

The development of modern science, particularly in cosmology and evolutionary biology, raises questions about how Islamic theology can engage in dialogue with contemporary scientific theories such as the Big Bang theory, the multiverse concept, and the theory of evolution. The objective of this research is to explore Islamic theology and cosmology, focusing on the aspects of the Creation of the Universe according to the Qur'an, the Multiverse Concept, and the Relationship between Evolutionary Theory and Islamic Teachings from the perspective of modern science. The method used in this study is a Systematic Literature Review by analyzing previous relevant studies on Islamic theology and cosmology. The findings show a connection between Islamic theology and the science of the creation of the universe, the multiverse, and evolutionary theory. The Qur'an presents creation as the will of God, encompassing both physical and spiritual dimensions. The concept of the multiverse is acceptable as long as it does not contradict the oneness of God (tawhid), while the theory of evolution is understood as part of the divine plan. Dialogue between theology and science enriches our understanding of the cosmos and opens up opportunities for relevant interdisciplinary research.

Public Health Literacy: a concept to develop – Qualitative study among public health professionals

Abstract Background Health literacy can be defined as individuals’ motivation and skills to access, understand, evaluate, and utilize information to make decisions about their health. Despite Sorensen’s widely used definition encompassing both individual and population levels, also known as Public Health Literacy, it remains poorly detailed and is rarely taken into account by measurement tools. As evidenced by the Covid-19 health crisis, limited public health literacy impacts reluctance to accept government recommendations, vaccine hesitancy, and fosters mistrust of science and conspiracy theories in the health field. The main objective of this study was to derive specific public health knowledge and skills from public health professionals for the general population constituted the first step of the development of a public health literacy measurement tools. Methods A qualitative study, based on ten semi-structured interviews with public health professionals from various settings (academic, hospital, health prevention, and promotion), working across various public health fields (nutrition, sexual health, mental health), has been conducted since March 2024. Results Preliminary analysis identified three main themes: (1) fundamental concepts including identification of health determinants, epidemiology and the purpose of public health interventions, (2) critical skills including the assessment of the level of evidence and reliability of public health information, and (3) civic orientation including environmental impact on health and community approach to interventions. Conclusions These detailed insights will guide the creation of a valid measurement tool for public health literacy. This will facilitate the investigation of specific impacts on people’s adherence to public health interventions or messages and the development of actions targeting literacy in a more holistic manner. Key messages • Specific public health dimensions have been identified to enrich the existed definition of health literacy. • Public health concepts, reliability of public health information and community approach constitute the core of public health literacy.

The Problem of Differential Importability and Scientific Modeling

The practice of science appears to involve “model-talk”. Scientists, one thinks, are in the business of giving accounts of reality. Scientists, in the process of furnishing such accounts, talk about what they call “models”. Philosophers of science have inspected what this talk of models suggests about how scientific theories manage to represent reality. There are, it seems, at least three distinct philosophical views on the role of scientific models in science’s portrayal of reality: the abstractionist view, the indirect fictionalist view, and the direct fictionalist view. In this essay, I try to articulate a question about what makes a scientific model more or less appropriate for a specific domain of reality. More precisely, I ask, “What accounts for the fact that given a determinate target domain, some scientific models, but not others, are thought to be “appropriate” for that domain?” I then consider whether and the degree to which each of the mentioned views on scientific models institutes a satisfactory response to this question. I conclude that, amongst those views, the direct fictionalist view seems to have the most promising response. I then utilize this argument to develop a more precise account of the problem of differential importability, and ultimately offer a more general and less presumptive argument that the problem seems to be optimally solved by justifying comparative evaluation of model-importabilities solely in terms of comparative evaluations of what I characterize as models’ “holistic” predictive success.

To use or not to use behavioural science evidence in designing health promotion interventions: Identification of targets for capacity building.

The behavioural sciences provide useful evidence to design effective health promotion interventions, but evidence is infrequently integrated in practice. This study examined associations between theoretical domains framework (TDF) constructs and public health practitioners' use of behavioural science evidence to plan public health actions. Using a cross-sectional design, a convenience sample of 160 practitioners were recruited from public health agencies across Canada. Respondents completed an online questionnaire assessing TDF constructs and the use of behavioural science theory and approaches (i.e., evidence) in their practice. Logistic regression analyses allowed for identification of factors associated with evidence use and intentions. All analyses were adjusted for sex, years of experience, and type of public health agency. Greater skills (ORadj = 4.1, 95%CI 1.3, 13.5) and stronger intentions/aligned goals (ORadj = 9.2, 95%CI 2.3, 36.1) were associated with greater use of behavioural science evidence to plan public health actions. Greater perceived capacity to overcome widespread absence of use of behavioural science evidence in their organization (ORadj = 7.2, 95%CI 1.7, 30.3) was also associated with greater use. More knowledge (ORadj = 8.6, 95%CI 1.9, 39.1) and stronger beliefs about consequences (ORadj = 4.0, 95%CI 1.1, 14.7) were significantly associated with stronger intentions/aligned goals. Findings show that more knowledge, positive attitudes, and stronger perceived competence are associated with greater likelihood of using behavioural science evidence to plan interventions. The use of behavioural science evidence will also require strengthening the norm pertaining to this professional practice in public health organizations.

FEATURES OF THE MODERN HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

The article examines different approaches to the essence of the concepts of «management», «health care management», etc., based on which the interpretation of the concept of «health care management» is proposed. Conceptualization of the content of the terms «management» and «administration» is of great importance for the development of the conceptual and categorical apparatus not only of the theory of management and science in general, but also of modern branch theories. The variety of approaches is caused by the conditions of functioning of modern management systems in the field of health care, which is caused by the continuation of the reformation of the management system of the industry, the addition of the legal framework, the search for sources of financing, personnel support, and the development of infrastructure in most modern states. The article analyzes the object and subject of health care management as mandatory components of the structure of the health care system. The content of the main functions and methods of management in the field of health care is revealed. The interrelationship of functions and methods depending on the level of management and the applied model of organization of the health care system is analyzed. It is emphasized that the presence of different types of health care models depends not only on the method of financing and management, but also on the conformity of this model to the cultural, economic and social characteristics of the nation and the state. It is indicated that modern states, which continue the process of reforming the health care sector, can use the best practices of each of the presented models to create an effective and accessible system of medical care, capable of responding to modern challenges, with an effective management system. It has been established that the management system of the health care sector should be based on a number of scientific approaches that will allow taking into account all factors of the internal and external environment. It has been proven that the need to form an optimal management system is an important element of transformational processes in the field of health care. Today, the field of health care should be aimed at developing the capacity of health care institutions to meet the established quality standards, offer a favorable environment for the activities of medical workers, and meet the existing needs of citizens.

Indian philosophy as a precursor of the string theory of consciousness. Part 2

Introduction. The article examines the formation of the Ancient Indian philosophy and its connection to consciousness. The Indian philosophy has come a long way from its onset, in parallel with the Chinese and Ancient Greek philosophy. At the same time, the ideas of some of its branches and schools differ in a number of features. Purpose setting. By the example of the Sankhya school of philosophy, we have explored the evolution of the views of Ancient Indian philosophers on the evolution of the Universe, nature and man. We have put particular emphasis on the concept of consciousness.Methodology and methods of the study. In Sankhya system, the fundamental Prakriti and Purusha principles are identified. Other elements are supplementary. Ancient philosophers laid special emphasis on the three vibrating gunas. These are sattva, rajas, and tamas. We have revealed the functional connections between the gunas. The way they interact, in balance or dominance, determines the entire variety of material and spiritual processes. The evolution of the Universe in the Sankhya interpretation is close to the scientific theory of the Big Bang. The development of nature can be traced through the complication of atoms starting from the influence of a stimulus on unconscious chaos. The result of human evolution is the emergence of consciousness derivatives: intellect, mind and I (Ego). This allows better understanding of the behavioral characteristics of an existing personality. Yoga complements Sankhya system and makes it possible to transform consciousness in a number of states.Results. The analysis was carried out using scientific articles and monographs relatively unknown in the Russian press. Cognitive development occurs in a spiral. The scientific theory of strings appeared two and a half millennia after the emergence of the gunas concept. We have made a number of analogies between Ancient Indian gunas and contemporary string theory. And have substantiated the theory of consciousness not with quantum theory, but with a deeper string theory. The concept of consciousness is supported in line with the scientific paradigm of T. Kuhn. The leading ideas are the ideas about information of D. Chalmers and the physicist J. Wheeler.Conclusion. Thus, the phenomenon of consciousness has a silicon and biological basis. We insist on using the semantic concept of artificial consciousness instead of artificial intelligence. Therefore, between human consciousness and artificial consciousness there may be dangerous risks of dominance of the latter.

On the Knowledge of Neural Networks: The Genesis, Characterization, and Justification

This paper systematically analyzes the knowledge generation process of neural networks through the lens of Philosophy for Science and Epistemology. This paper first argues that for neural network’s knowledge to be possible, it is necessary that the truth of the world can be represented by mathematics, since neural networks are, by their first nature, a mathematical model, and this paper provides few arguments that support the mathematical nature of truth. For a central characterization of neural network’s knowledge, this paper argues that neural networks bypass the three inherent limits of traditional sciences, such as physics and chemistry, suggested by Eugene P. Wigner (1995). The three limits are: 1) Traditional sciences are inevitably approximations of the transcendental truth; 2) Scientists will never stop pursuing deeper, more profound scientific theories that encompass more information than previous theories, despite every theory being an approximation; 3) The increasing complexity and depth of the successive scientific theories poses a significant challenge to human intellect. Neural networks bypass these limits by adaptively learning any underlying function to the given data space, without creating any fundamental hypothesis, which are inevitably not transcendental, like that of traditional sciences. This is also another distinction that supports the differentiation between “machine knowledge” and “human knowledge”, as first proposed by Wheller (2016). This paper argues that the only way humans can justify machine knowledge is through Reliabilism, the epistemic justification through trust in the knowledge generation process. Although reliabilism may currently seem unacceptable, this paper predicts that scientists will take control over machine knowledge in the future, as testified by scientists exploring the chemical world, which is similarly beyond direct comprehension. In the end, this paper suggests the necessity of discussing how AI can justify its own knowledge as conscious beings.

Research on Blockchain Interactive Zero Knowledge Proof Privacy Protection Scheme Based on Improved Paillier Homomorphic Encryption

In the context of the digital age, data privacy and security issues are increasingly prominent. Blockchain technology plays an important role in data sharing due to its transparency and immutability, but it also brings the risk of privacy leakage. Zero knowledge proof technology provides a solution for verifying data correctness without exposing data content, which is particularly important for blockchain as it can ensure the validity and compliance of transactions while protecting user privacy. Although zero knowledge proof is quite mature in theory, its application in blockchain systems still faces challenges such as computational efficiency, complexity of smart contracts, and system compatibility. This study aims to propose a privacy protection scheme that supports interactive zero knowledge proof by improving the homomorphic encryption Paillier algorithm, in order to enhance the privacy protection capability of blockchain systems and maintain system efficiency and security. The study will adopt an interdisciplinary approach, combining cryptography, computer science, and network security theory, to deeply analyze the application effect of zero knowledge proof technology in blockchain, explore its optimization space and applicability.

Research on the Knowledge Structure and Sustainable Development Pathways of Artificial Intelligence from the Perspective of Technological Science

Achieving significant breakthroughs in both the fundamental theories and technological applications of artificial intelligence is essential for fostering its long-term development. Under the guidance of Professor Qian Xuesen’s theory of technological science, exploring the internal mechanisms of knowledge evolution in artificial intelligence holds profound theoretical and practical significance for promoting sustainable technological advancement. This study draws on literature from the Web of Science (WOS) database and employs methods such as knowledge mapping, natural language processing, clustering analysis, and citation analysis to outline the knowledge structure of the field, clarify the trajectory of sustainable development, and trace the technological genealogy of VR/AR technologies.This study divides the knowledge structure within the field of technological science into “basic theoretical knowledge—applied basic knowledge—applied knowledge”, enriching Qian’s theory of technological science from within and providing strong intellectual support and technological pathways for sustainable technological development in practice. Artificial intelligence encompasses 10 distinct knowledge domains, among which machine learning and deep learning constitute the basic theoretical knowledge, data intelligence, computer vision, and swarm intelligence are the applied basic knowledge, and image processing and human-computer intelligence are the applied knowledge. The development of VR/AR technology has formed two main sustainable development paths: “machine learning—data intelligence—intelligent systems—human computer intelligence”, and “deep learning—computer vision—image processing”.

POI VizNet: New QGIS Tool to construct Visibility Networks in Cities

Abstract. Network science and graph theory offer attractive models to describe urban phenomena and examine cases of urban planning and design. However, none of the existing network analysis tools consider simultaneously human visual perception and locations of urban activities. In this paper we introduce POI VizNet, a new QGIS plug-in that constructs various 2-dimentianal undirected graphs of unobstructed lines of sight. The plug-in integrates an increasing amount of available GIS-based data of Point Of Interest (POI) and visibility into one readily accessible analytical framework. Graphs are created between two types of decision points during urban travel – street intersections and POIs, origins, and destinations of travel, by connecting these potential observer’s decision locations in an open space between buildings. In addition, POI VizNet provides advanced options to build graphs using a predefined viewing distance and perceptual perspective. Visibility graphs are constructed and visualised as new layers in QGIS and delivered as network files suitable for further exploration, analysis, and visualisation in various network software packages.

Cell Fate Dynamics Reconstruction Identifies TPT1 and PTPRZ1 Feedback Loops as Master Regulators of Differentiation in Pediatric Glioblastoma-Immune Cell Networks.

Pediatric glioblastoma is a complex dynamical disease that is difficult to treat due to its multiple adaptive behaviors driven largely by phenotypic plasticity. Integrated data science and network theory pipelines offer novel approaches to studying glioblastoma cell fate dynamics, particularly phenotypic transitions over time. Here we used various single-cell trajectory inference algorithms to infer signaling dynamics regulating pediatric glioblastoma-immune cell networks. We identified GATA2, PTPRZ1, TPT1, MTRNR2L1/2, OLIG1/2, SOX11, FXYD6, SEZ6L, PDGFRA, EGFR, S100B, WNT, TNF , and NF-kB as critical transition genes or signals regulating glioblastoma-immune network dynamics, revealing potential clinically relevant targets. Further, we reconstructed glioblastoma cell fate attractors and found complex bifurcation dynamics within glioblastoma phenotypic transitions, suggesting that a causal pattern may be driving glioblastoma evolution and cell fate decision-making. Together, our findings have implications for developing targeted therapies against glioblastoma, and the continued integration of quantitative approaches and artificial intelligence (AI) to understand pediatric glioblastoma tumor-immune interactions.

Epistemological Misunderstandings of the German Federal Court of Justice in Criminal Cases Regarding the Null Hypothesis: Verification in the Credibility Assessment

Epistemological Misunderstandings of the German Federal Court of Justice in Criminal Cases Regarding the Null Hypothesis: Verification in the Credibility Assessment Abstract: Background: The article deals with the decision of the German Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof, BGH) in criminal matters regarding credibility assessment dated 30 July 1999 (1 StR 618/98, BGHSt 45, 164). Regarding criminal matters, the BGH formulated specific requirements for credibility assessments based on two published scientific expert reports. Method: We analyzed conflicting postulates of scientific theory in the expert reports and the reception of these principles in the BGH judgment by examining the original quotes. Results: Given the central importance of this BGH decision, we analyzed the original expert reports for their epistemological content. The BGH formulated the scientific approach of starting from the assumption that the statement is untrue - the so-called "null hypothesis". In doing so, it referred to Popper's deductivism, albeit without addressing the rules of hypothesis testing. Based on the second expert report, which argues for inductive.