bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Intraoperative Cognitive Biases in Cardiac Surgery Teams
Authors: Dias Roger , Yule Steven , Harari Ryan , Zenati Marco
Published: June 2024

This study focuses on understanding the influence of cognitive biases in the intraoperative decision-making process within cardiac surgery teams, recognizing the complexity and high-stakes nature of such environments. We aimed to investigate the perceived prevalence and impact of cognitive biases among cardiac surgery teams, and how these biases may affect intraoperative decisions and patient safety and outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was utilized, combining quantitative ratings across 32 different cognitive biases (0 to 100 visual analogue scale), regarding their “likelihood of occurring” and “potential for patient harm” during the intraoperative phase of cardiac surgery. Based on these ratings, we collected qualitative insights on the most-rated cognitive biases from semi-structured interviews with surgeons, anaesthesiologists, and perfusionists who work in a cardiac operating room. A total of 16 participants, including cardiac surgery researchers and clinicians, took part in the study. We found a significant presence of cognitive biases, particularly confirmation bias and overconfidence, which influenced decision-making processes and had the potential for patient harm. Of 32 cognitive biases, 6 were rated above the 75th percentile for both criteria (potential for patient harm, likelihood of occurring). Our preliminary findings provide a first step toward a deeper understanding of the complex cognitive mechanisms that underlie clinical reasoning and decision-making in the operating room. Future studies should further explore this topic, especially the relationship between the occurrence of intraoperative cognitive biases and postoperative surgical outcomes. Additionally, the impact of metacognition strategies (e.g. debiasing training) on reducing the impact of cognitive bias and improving intraoperative performance should also be investigated.
Exploring Self-Medication Practices Among Undergraduate University Students: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Dominguez Rodrigo , Rojas Alex , Calderón Enrique , Bahamondes Dany , Torrejon Catalina , Astudillo Aylin , Santander Macarena
Published: June 2024

The findings of this study underscore the critical role of human factors and ergonomics in understanding and addressing the issue of self-medication among undergraduate university students. The aim of the presented qualitative descripted study was to explore the self medication and to assess practices among undergraduate university students of Viña del Mar from Chile. Method: A self-administered questionnaire consisting of 13 items was distributed to 342 participants through quota sampling, distributed in the following fields of study: Biotechnology Engineering (5), Manufacturing and Industrial Design Engineering (15), Computer Engineering (32), Industrial Maintenance Engineering (19), Industrial Safety and Environmental Engineering (10), Business Administration Technician (22), University Technician in Food (3), University Technician in Biotechnology (8), University Technician in Construction (25), University Technician in Environmental Control (5), University Technician in Electricity (25), University Technician in Electronics (17), University Technician in Renewable Energies (8), University Technician in Informatics (29), University Technician in Industrial Maintenance (24), University Technician in Automotive Mechanics (24), University Technician in Industrial Mechanics (18), University Technician in Mining and Metallurgy (29), University Technician in Engineering Projects (6), University Technician in Chemistry with a Mention in Analytical Chemistry (7), and University Technician in Telecommunications and Networks (11). The 342 participants (mean age=22 ± 2.3 years, Male: Female ratio=1.07:1), 71 were engineering and 271 were technician students. Self-medication was reported by 85.4% students. The most common reason for self-medication was lack of time to go to the doctor (49%). On the other hand, students (72%) use medications without prescription when symptoms appear, and the majority (75%) go to the doctor if the symptoms persist after self-medication. Commonly used medicines were analgesics (62.3%), antipyretics (21.1%) and antibiotics (11%). which are reflections of insufficient knowledge and wrong beliefs. Conclusion: Prevalence of self-medication is high in the Undergraduate University Students, despite majority being aware of its harmful effects. There is a need to educate the youth to ensure safe practices. Strict policies need to be implemented on the advertising and selling of medications to prevent this problem from escalating. Interventions must be put in place to educate on appropriate medicine use. National education programmes about the dangers of self medication use and restriction of antibiotics without prescriptions should be the priority including all paper components such as references, appendices, acknowledgements.
Exploring the Usability and User Experience of the Symptom Checker Interface
Authors: An Lin Wei , Zheng Meng-Cong , Wang Li-Jen
Published: June 2024

The symptom checker is an application designed to assist patients in self-assessment and provide recommendations on whether they should see the doctor. In the United States, many healthcare websites have provided symptom checkers as a service, whether for educational purposes or to enhance the patient's healthcare experience. Research indicates that symptom checkers must be more transparent and accessible for the users. Users must be able to trust the recommendations of the symptom checker for it to be effective. Therefore, the aim of this study is (1) To test whether the symptom checker can provide users with practical medical advice through clinical cases and (2) To examine whether the interface and features of the symptom checker affect user trust and experience.This study surveyed medical websites that currently offer symptom checkers. Two symptom checkers were ultimately selected for the study based on the symptom checker coverage of medical conditions, diagnostic accuracy, and appropriateness of medical advice. A total of 30 participants were invited to participate in the experiment to evaluate the usability of the symptom checker interfaces. Six clinical vignettes were provided during the experiment as scenarios of symptom inquiries. The evaluation methods included: (1) Tasks performed by think aloud method, (2) completing the questionnaire of SUS (System Usability Scale), UEQ (User Experience Questionnaire), and a DAS(Decision Attitude Scale), (3) conducting semi-structured interviews to gain in-depth insights into participants' experiences, perceptions, and recommendations regarding their interactions with the symptom checker.The results revealed that the SUS scores of the two symptom checkers were 67.5 (Grade D) and 47.5 (Grade F), respectively, failing to meet the acceptable standards of the SUS score. Furthermore, the pragmatic and hedonic quality of the UEQ scale didn't meet the criteria. Through the semi-structured interview, we found that: (1) participants' accuracy in identifying diseases was only 48% and 53%, and the majority of participants indicated that they would consider the results of the symptom checker just a suggestion. (2) 70% of participants thought detailed descriptions of symptoms and treatment methods could help increase trust and understanding of the conditions. (3) 67% of participants indicated that human body model feature assistance helped describe their physical condition. These results help us understand user behavior in the symptom checker interface and their sense of trust in the symptom checker, providing valuable insights for future design improvements.
Muse Alpha: AI-based Preliminary Diagnosis for Cognitive Thought Patterns
Authors: Park Hyeseong , Won Raymond Jung Myung , Kim Minji , Kim Jihye
Published: June 2024

Recent issues of medication misuse and abuse have prompted research into utilizing big data and artificial intelligence to aid psychiatrists in determining medication dosages. Muse Alpha contributes through high-quality data collection, AI-based patient similarity analysis, and a patient-centric conversation approach. This includes the extraction of patterns of negative thoughts, achieving up to 87.5% accuracy in guiding conversations. The goal is to overcome the limitations of brief one to one interactions between doctors and patients, ensuring more accurate medication prescriptions. Discovering patterns of negative thoughts and conveying them visually to the doctor assists in providing an accurate diagnosis of the patient's condition and aids in the precise diagnosis of medication for the patient.
Clarification of drug-checking strategies for expert pharmacists based on gaze analysis
Authors: Maeda Yoshitaka
Published: June 2024

In Japan, a pharmacist who receives a physician’s prescription for a drug (1) checks the medical and pharmacological validity of the prescription; (2) prepares the drug; and (3) confirms that the drug has been prepared as prescribed, and that there are no quality issues. The aforementioned checkpoints (1) and (3) are particularly important for ensuring patient safety. Meanwhile, knowledge of checking is tacit and not shared among pharmacists. Therefore, a pharmacist’s gaze was analyzed to identify checking strategies based on expert gaze patterns. Gazing points in prescriptions during expert checks were measured in a clinical setting. Four participants had 20–30 years of experience as pharmacists. Consequently, four check strategies were identified. However, the check strategy differed, depending on the participant. This indicates that each pharmacist in charge of checking prescriptions has a different strategy, and that there are errors that are difficult to detect. In the future, it is necessary to verify the validity of these strategies in terms of safety, and to develop methods to educate novices in a well-balanced manner in each of these strategies.
Human Factors Validation of Collaborative Medical Workflows Through Multi-User Workflow Simulation: A Case Study in Interventional Radiology
Authors: Janny Benedikt , Klank Robert , Glandorf Julian , Wacker Frank , Hensen Bennet , Moritz Julia
Published: June 2024

This paper challenges the traditional focus on individual 1on1 sessions during workflow simulations and usability testing, which often fail to capture the collaborative nature of medical workflows. To overcome this, a human factors and workflow simulation lab was developed within the research campus STIMULATE. The paper describes the conception, development, and operational capabilities of the lab particularly focusing on collaborative human factors assessment. A novel methodology, based on hierarchical task analysis, is introduced. It breaks down complex workflows into subtasks and assigns them to specific user groups, such as Radiologists and Radiologic Technologists, capturing the intricacies of user interactions in specialized medical environments. The lab’s first validation study is presented using the example of the simulation of an image-guided interventional liver biopsy. The study demonstrates the lab's ability to accurately replicate a high percentage of tasks performed by medical professionals in complex procedures, thereby confirming its effectiveness in modelling collaborative medical workflows. It emphasizes the importance of detailed task-level workflow segmentation for analysing human-machine and human-human interactions and introduces specific metrics for measuring usability dimensions like effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction.
Incorporating Human Factors Methods into Healthcare Process Improvement Work
Authors: Fuller Helen , Adams Kathleen , Achee Tee , Arnold Timothy
Published: June 2024

Utilizing human factors engineering (HFE) methods and a human-centered design (HCD) process can be valuable in improving the functionality and safety of a system, process, or other product. While some HFE methods require advanced training for optimal use, others may be employed more easily or may be adapted for easier use. We identified HFE methods that appear most important for successful system design, found opportunities for deployment in existing redesign efforts, and developed education materials and tools to simplify their use with the intention of facilitating incorporation of these HFE methods into healthcare process improvement work.
Analysis of Procedures and Instruments for the Digitization of the Foot and Ankle Aimed at Orthosis Development
Authors: Santos Rosangela , Marques Jr Ademir , Silva João , Cardoso Ventura Flávio , Favoni Célio , Cristina Buttignon Isabel , Dos Santos Almeida Rosemeire , Oliveira Marcelo
Published: June 2024

Orthoses are products considered assistive technology for maintaining or expanding the skills of people with physical disabilities (Pwd), promoting greater social integration. All Pwd's who have sequelae of hemiplegia/hemiparesis need to use an orthosis. Generally, such an artifact has characteristics that interfere negatively during its use. The design of products (orthesis and footwear) separately often meets the functional requirements but has limitations regarding the conditions to facilitate usability and offer attractive aesthetic attributes that can promote a pleasant experience for people with disabilities. Such aspects influence the way people move around and interfere negatively in the physical rehabilitation process. Rapid prototyping can contribute to the development of these products in a personalized way and provide better patient satisfaction. For this, it is necessary to develop a digital model with reliable dimensions and formats based on three-dimensional scanning. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the quality of the digital model through image capture by different instruments and image processing procedures to obtain the three-dimensional model. Three-dimensional scanning was performed in a hemiparetic woman, patient at APAE-Jaú. The procedures performed were Kinect device and Skanect software; tomography scanning, and digital photogrammetry technique using a professional camera and the software Agisoft Metashape. All scans were aimed at the development and production of orthoses. It was noted that the most efficient digital model for the development of a customized orthosis was the tomography procedure. The software for developing the three-dimensional model is free, however, data collection to obtain the image (CT scanner) is expensive.
Mental Workload Prediction Method Based on GOMS
Authors: Li Wentao , Li Zhizhong
Published: June 2024

The conventional approaches to assessing mental workload with operators are time-consuming, and even more challenging when experienced operators are tougher to find. Prior to an experiment involving operators, mental workload prediction methods may be useful for having a preliminary evaluation of a system or interface. This study represented mental workload using the ratio of GOMS-based predicted task completion time to available time. The low-version and high-version maritime operation interfaces were compared. In the GOMS analysis, this study disassembled task goals based on a hierarchical structure and matched each subtask goal with a method. Given the presence of considerable repetitive GOMS operators throughout the task execution, the idea of operator sequence block was introduced for task analysis and reader comprehension. By nesting these blocks, the task was decomposed into keystroke-level GOMS operators. By accumulating the standard times of the GOMS operators, the time prediction results for operator sequence blocks, methods, hierarchical task goals, and overall task can be obtained following the bottom-up approach.The results indicated that the number of GOMS operators and the task completion time required for the operators significantly decreased when using the high-version interface. Consequently, it was anticipated that the high-version interface could notably reduce the operators’ mental workload. The mental workload prediction method based on GOMS proposed in this study can be used to guide early-stage interface design to enhance operator performance.
Dynamic Assessment Method for Group Decision-making Errors in Extreme Work Environment Driven by Team Cognitive Model
Authors: Qiao Yidan , Kai Chen Deng , Liao Wenyi , Ma Lin , Li Haotian
Published: June 2024

Due to the task demands, team operating in extreme environments is socially isolated, subject to prolonged physical constraints, and exposed to significant risks. The cognitive functional structure of team was focused, and the submarine team was regarded as a social interaction unit. The cluster of Performance Shaping Factors (PSFs) was reconstructed, incorporating the Team-PSFs groups. In terms of member variability, the three-parameter Weibull distribution function was used to construct the human time performance distribution function. The quantitative models of different team cognitive failure modes were constructed that consider the communication information elements within the team, including individual independent transmission, communication shared transmission, and information transmission. The proposed methodology was validated through simulation in a typical task of manned submarine unpowered diving.
Facilitating Social Engagement for Middle-Aged and Older Individuals: Examining the Role of Idle Goods and Product-Service Design
Authors: Meng Jie
Published: June 2024

This article is grounded in the context of middle-aged and older individuals (aged 55 and above) in China living separately from their families due to population aging and shifts in traditional family structures. It delves into their requirements for social engagement and the potential of idle goods to foster connections among this demographic, thereby stimulating economic growth and influencing consumer behaviour. Drawing from a literature review and a survey of 212 participants, the article suggests that innovative approaches are essential to address social isolation and promote meaningful interaction among older individuals. It offers recommendations for future research and practical intervention strategies, emphasizing the importance of product-service design frameworks and community-based initiatives. In sum, this article enhances our comprehension of the challenges and opportunities associated with population aging in China and highlights the critical role of social cohesion and inclusive community development in supporting the well-being of older people.
Cool Guy's Adventure: A Sensory Integration Game Designed for Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Sin Wu Yi , Yen Chen Chun , Teng- Chang , Pay Wuang Yee
Published: June 2024

This paper offers an interactive scenario of Cool Guy's Adventure for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) based on sensory integration (SIT). We present a design framework that allows occupational therapists to arrange and combine game units and difficulty levels. ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. Many studies have utilized HCI technology to assist and treat patients with various mental conditions, helping them lead healthier lives. However, there has been limited attention given to the development of HCI technologies to support children with ADHD. The game was developed using the Unity3D game engine and Microsoft Kinect®, each game design focuses on sensory integration training and enhances the child's intrinsic motivation: Throw the perfect ball, Play hopscotch, and Capture treasure. We present assessments and results after testing a sample of children (n=4), aged 8, with or without ADHD.■ References[1]Fage C., Pommereau L., Consel C., Balland E. and Sauzéon H. 2014. The 16th International ACM SIGACCESS Conference on Computers and Accessibility Tablet-based Activity Schedule for Children with Autism in Mainstream Environment. Rochester, USA, 145-152. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1145/2858036.2858245[2]Sonne T. and Jensen M. M. 2016. Evaluating the ChillFish Biofeedback Game with Children with ADHD. In Proceedings of the 2016 ACM Interaction Design and Children (IDC), Manchester, United Kingdom, 529-534. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1145/2930674.2935981[3]American Psychiatric Association. 2013. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Fifth edition: DSM-5, Washington, p.991.[4]Liao M.-N. 2016. Co-creation - Exploration and Research on The Joint Decision-making Mode of Interdisciplinary Cooperation. Master’s thesis. National Yunlin University of Science and Technology.
Unveiling the Future Design of Health Management Systems: An Exploratory Study on Older Adults’ Perceived Usefulness of Functional Modules
Authors: Mao Qian , Zhao Zhen , Yu Lisha , Wang Hailiang
Published: June 2024

Degradation of physical functions with aging contributes to multiple chronic diseases among older adults. In the era of global aging, older adults’ health management has brought considerable challenges to the economy, health system, and society due to the giant care burden and complex care requirements. Advanced technology (e.g., sensors, computing) prompted diverse digital health management systems, allowing stakeholders to monitor, evaluate, treat, and manage older adults’ health status. Despite these systems’ great efficiency and convenience, older adults’ attitudes toward the usefulness of functional modules in expanding health knowledge and enhancing health management remain uncertain. This study explored older adults’ perceived usefulness of five functional modules in health management systems: education, evaluation, tailored profiles, monitoring, and telemedicine modules. The results will provide valuable insights for designing future health management products. Participants were recruited through a convenience sampling method on a professional Web-based survey platform. The questionnaire included demographic information and participants’ perceived usefulness of the five functional modules in expanding health knowledge and enhancing health management. Friedman’s tests were conducted to compare older adults’ perceptions of the five functional modules, and ordinal logistic regressions were performed to assess the effects of demographics on perceived usefulness. A total of 109 valid responses were included in the data analysis (76 males and 33 females; mean age = 64.5±4.5 years). The results showed significant differences in older adults’ perceptions of the usefulness of five functional modules in enhancing health management (𝝌2 = 21.646, p < 0.001). Older adults believed the evaluation module was significantly more useful than the monitoring module in enhancing health management (p = 0.036); however, no significant differences existed in the perceived usefulness of expanded health knowledge (𝝌2 = 4.966, p = 0.291) among five modules. The results of ordinal logistic regressions showed that individuals living in care institutions were more likely to believe that the evaluation module was useful in enhancing health management than those living with relatives (OR= 333.33, 𝝌2 = 7.31, p = 0.01). Older adults without a fall history were more convinced that a monitoring module could contribute to health management than those with a fall history (OR= 4.92, 𝝌2 = 4.00, p = 0.04). Older adults had positive attitudes toward the usefulness of functional modules in expanding health knowledge and enhancing health management. The adoption of age-friendly design strategies in health management systems is recommended to promote individuals’ use of healthcare products and improve their well-being in the long term.
Comprehensive Analysis of Body Shapes in the Indian Male Population: A National and Regional Study
Authors: Tiwari Manoj , Anand Noopur
Published: June 2024

The product creation process in India relies on imported anthropometric data from other nations, posing a major challenge for Indian consumers who desire tailored things that cater to their distinct physical attributes. Indian shoppers sometimes face difficulties in finding well-fitting garments due to the limited availability of comprehensive information on Indian body types and sizes. This issue is especially prevalent in the textile industry. The gravity of this situation is underscored by recent calculations indicating that apparel returns constitute a substantial 20% to 40% of sales, a trend that is exacerbated by the growing e-commerce sector.In response to the pressing need, a comprehensive statewide anthropometric survey was conducted using state-of-the-art 3D whole-body scanning technology. Conducted on a significant scale, this study encompassed a cohort of more than 13,000 male volunteers (total scanned subjects 13279 and valid subjects 12546), aged 15 to 70. The selection process was meticulous, ensuring representation from all six geographical regions of India. The collected data was methodically grouped into clusters, resulting in the categorization of body shapes on both a regional and national level. This classification technique was established based on accurate measurements of height and significant girth dimensions, specifically focusing on the waist, hip, upper hip, and chest girths.The three most frequent body types among Indian men, according to this indigenous survey, are the rectangle, the inverted trapezoid, and the trapezoid. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of body shapes at the regional level was conducted and compared to the shape clusters seen at the national level. The fundamental body structure groupings among Indian males were discovered to be in line with the national groupings, notwithstanding regional differences. The three primary male body forms were present in all the regions, however there were disparities in how common these shapes were. This ground-breaking study underscores how crucial it is to take regional variances in product sizing and design into account in order to appropriately serve the diversified Indian population.
Second-hand fashion and its impact on business sustainability
Authors: Torres Jaramiilo Alejandra , Manuel Maldonado-Matute Juan , Armijos Ana , José González Calle María , Isabel Arteaga Ortíz María , Fernando Guerreo Maxi Pedro
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the beliefs that influence the predisposition to buy second-hand clothes. The methodology had a quantitative approach, through the collection of data via an online survey, which were analyzed using the PLS algorithm and the bootstrapping technique for structural equations. The influence of consumers' environmental beliefs, willingness to spend and beliefs on attitudes towards second-hand fashion was assessed. The results indicate that attitude towards second-hand fashion has a mediating effect between beliefs and intention to purchase second-hand clothing; moreover, environment and willingness to spend have a positive and significant effect on attitude towards second-hand fashion.
Kimono design and color scheme proposal using image-generating AI technology
Authors: Kitaguchi Saori , Kato Shintaro
Published: June 2024

The kimono market has shrunk by about a tenth in 40 years. While demand is decreasing, there is an equal or even more significant shortage of companies and workers, so some existing companies face a greater burden in production than before. Some kimono OEM productions in Nishijin, a part of Kyoto in Japan famous for kimono textiles, have more customers as the number of competitors in the same business is decreasing. This has made it difficult to propose differentiated designs for each customer. In particular, the content of the customer's order is often expressed only in words and abstract expressions, making it difficult to determine the design. In addition, it is usually necessary to consider multiple color schemes for each design. These processes must be carried out by a limited number of people within the company and in a short period. Given the current situation, we believe ‘streamlining the design process’ is necessary in the kimono industry. On the other hand, the technological development of image-generating AI is accelerating rapidly and attracting great social interest. The rapid development of image-generating AI technology is expected to improve the productivity of various operations in various industries. Therefore, this study investigated and verified the possibility of using image-generating AI in the kimono design process. In the experiment, AI was used to generate images using texts as input values, and it was examined whether the design and color scheme of the images matched human impressions. Under the current experimental environment, it was found that the AI-generated images and human impressions were close in terms of country/region with a high degree of accuracy. The color analysis showed that the color of the AI-generated images was comparable to that of human impressions for both the country/region and the adjective word. This suggested the possibility of using image-generating AIs to support the kimono coloring process.
An investigation of garment construction and textile properties in enhancing the plus-size shapewear bra effectiveness
Authors: Tung Yu Hiu , Yiu Liu Pak , Po Lee Ka , Li Xiaolu , Yip Joanne
Published: June 2024

This study aims to develop an initial design concept to enhance the contouring function of a plus-size shaping bra by investigating significant design features, garment construction, and textile characteristics. The golden ratio theory of the female breast is employed as a reference for evaluating the contouring effectiveness of the plus-size shapewear bra. This evaluation was conducted by collecting visual and numerical data from a 3D body scanner. Additionally, this study investigated perceived comfort in terms of thermal and pressure aspects to establish the correlation between garment construction and wearing comfort. In the experiment, two female subjects with 80D cup sizes were invited to evaluate four plus-size shapewear bras with varying design features. Qualitative and quantitative feedback is gathered through questionnaire and wear trials. The results indicate that a shorter shoulder strap distance, cross-back strap position, and bra cup construction are ideal for supporting and distributing the breast load. Moreover, the stretchability of fabric is found to be correlated with enhancing the contouring function by applying proper garment pressure. Evaluating the thermal comfort of garment is the secondary objective to provide insights into the overall perceived comfort of plus-size shapewear bras available in the market. These results could serve as a valuable reference for advancing bra design for plus-size females and offer potential avenues for further development.
Approaching Cognitive Biases in the Circular Economy through Serious Gaming
Authors: Behnert Anna-kristin , Arlinghaus Julia , Kessler Melanie , Freese Maria
Published: June 2024

The current linear economy model extracts resources at a rate that far exceeds the ability of the planet to regenerate them. Climate change, global warming, and the destruction of natural habits are just a few consequences. They highlight the urgent need for a shift towards a more sustainable economic model, such as the circular economy. Such a paradigm shift would offer novel approaches that aim to uncouple economic development from environmental degradation, however, the adoption of circular economy principles by consumers is often hindered by the human behavior which is influenced by so-called cognitive biases. These effects influence human decision-making leading to a systematic deviation from a rational optimum. Exemplarily the status quo bias shows this connection. Thereby, individuals favor existing conditions over potential changes. Research on circular economy as well as on cognitive biases increases, however, the interplay between these areas remains unexplored. Serious games, defined as games with a primary purpose other than pure entertainment, could be a promising approach to mitigate cognitive biases in the context of the circular economy. Serious games are being increasingly recognized as a valuable tool for education, especially in the context of complex systems (such as circular economy) and behavioral change, as they engage players in an interactive, and immersive environment. This paper explores in an exploratory approach possible ways, prerequisites, and obstacles of the use of serious games enabling circular value creation. Utilizing a structured literature review, the authors examine existing work in this area and identify gaps in the literature, underscoring the need for further research in this emerging field. This study, thus, serves as a starting point for future studies on the role of serious games in shaping sustainable practices.
Team, Unit, and Networked Cohesion in Start-up Entrepreneurship
Authors: Salminen Vesa , Pyykkönen Matti , Salminen Carita , Pylvinen Joonas
Published: June 2024

The success of start-up entrepreneurship is dependent on multidisciplinary, multidimensional (operation-based functions), and business-related human-, team-, unit- and network cohesion building. It is most important in generating results during start-up entrepreneurship. In business development, it is essential to use experience-based best practices and design patterns that have been recognized in team building and start-up case studies. A start-up company can create an impressive idea with value production when the company has committed people with the right competencies. It has to be understood that cohesion is also formed between users and producers, and between all members of the team, unit, and network partners. This research and article have concentrated on cohesion building during the start-up phase of the gaming business entrepreneurship. It introduces as a case study a four-stage framework of cohesion building during the progress of start-up phases of gaming entrepreneurship. As a result, it introduced a four-stage cohesion-creating concept for a dream team to build a distinct game product and support the start-up of a successful entrepreneurship.
Supporting Adoption of Circular Business Models in Small and Medium Enterprises: Circular Readiness Assessment Framework
Authors: Weck Marina , Jalonen Meri , Kerkola Heidi
Published: June 2024

The circular economy (CE) is widely acknowledged as a highly promising and powerful alternative to the linear economy, representing one of the most significant advancements toward sustainability. Accelerating the transition to the CE requires the adoption of new circular business models (CBMs) by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), given their central role in sustainable development and global economic growth. Despite extensive research on the CE and CBMs reported in the literature over the past decade, there have been limited publications focusing on the transition of SMEs to the CE through the adoption of CBMs. Specifically, there is a lack of frameworks, models, and practical tools for assessing the CE readiness of SMEs and supporting them in the adoption of CBMs. This paper presents an approach to conceptualizing and subsequently operationalizing the circular readiness assessment framework (CRAF), which provides a conceptual foundation for the development of a tool to assist SMEs, aiming to adopt new CBMs, in evaluating their current readiness to perform business processes and activities following CE principles. The framework consists of five key dimensions: sustainable use of materials, efficient utilization of capacity and resources, extended life cycle of machines and equipment, maximizing product and material value, and leveraging customer relationships. These dimensions represent the identified business process and activity areas essential for the effective adoption of CBMs but are often underperforming. The framework was operationalized by developing and testing the self-assessment tool through interviews with the most knowledgeable members of 19 Finnish SMEs across various manufacturing industry and service sectors. Subsequently, it was refined based on the findings, which complement previous research on challenges SMEs encounter in adopting CBMs. Although the 19 SMEs were already taking significant steps toward implementing CE principles in their processes, particularly in resource-efficient production development, many firms still faced difficulties in identifying a suitable CBM and aligning their processes with it. The findings also revealed that many SMEs, despite lacking in-depth expertise and familiarity with CE principles and related terminology, have integrated these principles into their processes and activities, indicating a strong motivation to renew their businesses with CBMs.
The cost-effectiveness of the resilient performance of truck drivers in road freight transportation
Authors: Medeiros Claudia , Abreu Saurin Tarcisio
Published: June 2024

Truck drivers are crucial actors in supply chains that rely on road freight transportation. Their activity is subjected to a number of expected and unexpected variabilities that demand resilient performance at the individual and organizational level. This paper presents an exploratory analysis of the cost-effectiveness of such resilient performance, adopting a qualitative perspective. Data collection occurred in the context of road freight transportation in Southern Brazil, involving the direct observation of the drivers´ activities, along with semi-structured interviews with drivers, head of the employee´s trade union, and managers of the freight companies. The results indicated a prevalence of resilient practices at the individual level and a number of constraints out of the drivers´ control, with very limited help from supportive work systems. These practices are costly not only to the drivers´ health and safety but also pose hazards to other stakeholders and society at large. At the same time, from a narrow and short-term perspective, resilient practices displayed by the drivers can be regarded by employers and clients as cheap and effective as the cargo is more often than not delivered with little delay and in good condition. From a systems perspective, the burden of resilient performance seems to be unevenly distributed in the supply chain, posing disproportional costs to the truck drivers.
Designing a Proof of Concept for a Virtual Competence Assistant
Authors: Liutkevicius Markko , Kõosaar Madis , Ben Yahia Sadok
Published: June 2024

This paper addresses the critical gaps within public employment services (PES), with a particular focus on the deficiency in automation and AI-supported intelligent career recommendations. Notably, the advancements in this public sector's domain remain in their early stages, necessitating further exploration and development. The study sheds light on the underutilization and challenges faced in the PES sector, where scarcity of training data poses significant hurdles. Highlighting the potential of ESCO (European Skills, Competences, Qualifications, and Occupations) classification, the paper underscores its role in facilitating the alignment of occupations with specific skills through AI-driven approaches. By narrowing the training data to ESCO's research occupations and job posts collected from Estonian labor market, the paper lays down the preliminary foundation for constructing a digital career coach as a Virtual Competence Assistant (VCA). Ultimately, the envisioned proof of concept for an AI-based VCA holds the potential to revolutionize the delivery of PES services in the new era of efficiency and effectiveness.
How to set up design skills appropriate for each organization
Authors: Sasaki Toshiya
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the definition of design has expanded with changes in the social environment. Companies are faced with the challenge of setting up the necessary design skills in accordance with the changes in their business and organization. Against this background, I organize examples of design skills that can be used as references and propose how to set up design skills.
The Investigation of Systematic Micro-refresh with Auditory Stimuli on Intellectual Work
Authors: Dianita Orchida , Higashimaki Takuto , Abe Reika , Ueda Kimi , Ishii Hirotake , Shimoda Hiroshi , Obayashi Fumiaki
Published: June 2024

Systematic micro-refresh arises as one of the recovery strategies during the intellectual work to preserve a good performance. In this study, controlled laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of auditory stimuli to induce a systematic micro-refresh on intellectual work. In this preliminary experiment, four participants’ data which demonstrated a positive effect in auditory stimuli intervention were analyzed. The average measurement of answering time resulted in a better condition after participants received the micro-refresh auditory stimuli compared to non-auditory stimuli. NASA task load index questionnaire scores show that in a condition without auditory stimuli, the score is higher which implies a higher workload in a condition without auditory stimuli intervention. The subjective symptoms questionnaire indicates that in a condition without auditory stimuli, participants feel sleepier. However, a blurriness and sluggishness score shows a slightly higher score in a condition with auditory stimuli compared to a non-auditory stimuli condition. Subjective feelings of concentration showed that the score is a little bit lower in a condition with auditory stimuli. A higher fatigue level score happened in a condition without auditory stimuli. Participants feel more detached, easily recovered, and more relaxed compared to no auditory stimuli intervention. From the total score of the attention control scale questionnaire, participants were classified as a medium-attentional group and a high-attentional group, which might imply a positive correlation to the good attentional control and micro-refresh auditory stimuli responses. This study portrays the auditory stimuli as a promising micro-refresh medium to promote recovery enhancement strategy for intellectual work.
Optimizing Contract Flow: A Simulation-Based Approach to Efficiency Improvement
Authors: Waszkowski Robert , Nowicki Tadeusz
Published: June 2024

This paper explores the efficiency and performance of business processes involved in contract flow. We leverage simulation techniques to analyze various parameters that impact contract flow, extending beyond just efficiency. The simulation model encompasses the entire contract lifecycle, allowing us to identify bottlenecks and assess the impact of different process configurations. Our investigation examines a range of performance indicators, including efficiency, cost, and cycle time. The results provide valuable insights for organizations seeking to optimize their contract flow processes and achieve improved performance.
A Data-driven Approach to Identify Feedback Elements for Effective VR Training
Authors: Ravyse Werner , Tarkkanen Kimmo , Luimula Mika , Smed Jouni
Published: June 2024

Over the past decade Virtual reality (VR) technology has become more readily available. Although VR still suffers from inducing simulation sickness and having cumbersome controllers, industrial companies have embraced the technology as an alternative to overly complex and expensive simulators. A primary pedagogical consideration for effective VR training is feedback. While research has proven the positive training impact of feedback over having no feedback, very few studies explore techniques to help pinpoint the exact training outcomes that require feedback in a VR training simulator. This study illustrates how collecting human interaction metrics data from a VR fire extinguisher training application without a feedback mechanism can identify the areas where feedback for effective training is most required. We conducted a descriptive comparison study with 36 participants. We collected and analysed the participants’ VR interaction data across nine validated metrics and compared the results to their practical fire extinguishing evaluation on the same metrics. Our results show that the interaction data from the VR application presents curious behaviour regarding the distance participants kept between themselves and the fire, and their regard for wind direction when approaching the fire. The same elements surfaced in the practical evaluation. We conclude that collecting and analysing metrics from a VR training application is a suitable technique for identifying training aspects or outcomes that require a feedback mechanism.
Democracy and Artificial General Intelligence
Authors: Kontio Elina , Salmi Jussi
Published: June 2024

We may have to soon decide what kind of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) computers we will build and how they will coexist with humans. Many predictions estimate that artificial intelligence will surpass human intelligence during this century. This poses a risk to humans: computers may cause harm to humans either intentionally or unintentionally. Here we outline a possible democratic society structure that will allow both humans and artificial general intelligence computers to participate peacefully in a common society.There is a potential for conflict between humans and AGIs. AGIs set their own goals which may or may not be compatible with the human society. In human societies conflicts can be avoided through negotiations: all humans have the about the same world view and there is an accepted set of human rights and a framework of international and national legislation. In the worst case, AGIs harm humans either intentionally or unintentionally, or they can deplete the human society of resources.So far, the discussion has been dominated by the view that the AGIs should contain fail-safe mechanisms which prevent conflicts with humans. However, even though this is a logical way of controlling AGIs we feel that the risks can also be handled by using the existing democratic structures in a way that will make it less appealing to AGIs (and humans) to create conflicts.The view of AGIs that we use in this article follows Kantian autonomy where a device sets goals for itself and has urges or drives like humans. These goals may conflict with other actors’ goals which leads to a competition for resources. The way of acting and reacting to other entities creates a personality which can differ from AGI to AGI. The personality may not be like a human personality but nevertheless, it is an individual way of behaviour.The Kantian view of autonomy can be criticized because it neglects the social aspect. The AGIs’ individual level of autonomy determines how strong is their society and how strongly integrated they would be with the human society. The critic of their Kantian autonomy is valid, and it is here that we wish to intervene.In Kantian tradition, conscious humans have free will which makes them morally responsible. Traditionally we think that computers, like animals lack free will or, perhaps, deep feelings. They do not share human values. They cannot express their internal world like humans. This affects the way that AGIs can be seen as moral actors. Often the problem of constraining AGIs has used a technical approach, placing different checks and designs that will reduce the likelihood of adverse behaviour towards humans. In this article we take another point of view. We will look at the way humans behave towards each other and try to find a way of using the same approaches with AGIs.
Understanding Drivers and Barriers to Employment for Individuals with Disabilities
Authors: Stankevičiūtė Živilė , Girdauskiene Lina , Savanevičienė Asta
Published: June 2024

Finding and retaining work seems to be a huge challenge for many people with disabilities worldwide, and this is despite the fact that employing them is crucial from both a social and economic perspective. Addressing the gap in the literature, the paper aims to reveal the drivers and barriers to employment for people with disabilities. In doing this, a qualitative study was conducted having semi-structured interviews with people with disabilities. The core findings revealed that individual, organisational and contextual factors might support or hinder people with disabilities from employment. The paper calls for rethinking how society as a whole might contribute to better life and work quality for people with disabilities as well as entire population.