Informatics

25 pages, 7680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Cancer Stem Cell (CSC)-Associated Genes, Prognostic Value, and Candidate Drugs as Modulators of CSC-Associated Signaling in Carcinomas Through a Multiomics Data Analysis Approach

by Pallabi Mondal, Poulami Singh, Krishna Mahanti and Sankar Bhattacharyya

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040095 (registering DOI) - 29 Nov 2024

Abstract

Background: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cancer cells that have the potential for self-renewal and a strong proliferative capacity, and sustain tumorigenesis capabilities. This ability of CSCs to escape immune responses makes the CSCs a primary source of functionally [...] Read more.

Background: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cancer cells that have the potential for self-renewal and a strong proliferative capacity, and sustain tumorigenesis capabilities. This ability of CSCs to escape immune responses makes the CSCs a primary source of functionally altered, immune-resistant, chemoresistant, aggressive tumor cells. These characteristics determine the potential advantage of targeting CSCs for the treatment of solid tumors. Method: First, we downloaded different gene expression datasets of CSCs from the NCBI-GEO (National Center for Biotechnology Information–Gene Expression Omnibus) database and identified common genes by using a suitable Venn tool. Subsequently, we explored the prognostic significance of the particular genes in particular cancers and analyzed the expression of these genes at the protein level in human solid tumors by using KM plotter (Kaplan-Meier plotter) and an HPA (The Human Protein Atlas) database, respectively. Finally, using a comparative toxicogenomic database, we selected several important drugs or chemicals. Result: From this study, we identified APOC1 as a common upregulated gene in breast cancer and SLC44A5 and CAV2 as common up- and downregulated genes in lung cancer. In ovarian cancer, PRRG4 is a commonly upregulated gene, and ADCY7, AKAP12, TPM2, and FLNC are commonly downregulated genes. These genes also show prognostic significance in respective cancers. Several drugs that are capable of targeting the expression or signaling network of designated genes of CSC were also identified, which may contribute in CSC-targeted cancer therapy. Conclusion: Our study suggests a need for more in-depth experimental investigations to determine the actual functional activity and the mechanism of action of these CSC-associated genes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Informatics)

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14 pages, 732 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Fun Matter? Using Chatbots for Customer Services

by Tai Ming Wut, Elaine Ah-heung Chan and Helen Shun-mun Wong

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040094 - 27 Nov 2024

Abstract

Chatbots are widely used in customer services contexts today. People using chatbots have their pragmatic reasons, like checking delivery status and refund policies. The purpose of the paper is to investigate what are those factors that affect user experience and a chatbot’s service [...] Read more.

Chatbots are widely used in customer services contexts today. People using chatbots have their pragmatic reasons, like checking delivery status and refund policies. The purpose of the paper is to investigate what are those factors that affect user experience and a chatbot’s service quality which influence user satisfaction and electronic word-of-mouth. A survey was conducted in July 2024 to collect responses in Hong Kong about users’ perceptions of chatbots. Contrary to previous literature, entertainment and warmth perception were not associated with user experience and service quality. Social presence was associated with user experience, but not service quality. Competence was relevant to user experience and service quality, which reveals important implications for digital marketers and brands of adopting chatbots to enhance their service quality. Full article

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18 pages, 3100 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Gap Analysis Framework for an Open Data Portal Assessment Based on Data Provision and Consumption Activities

by Sahaporn Sripramong, Chutiporn Anutariya, Patipat Tumsangthong, Theerawat Wutthitasarn and Marut Buranarach

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040093 - 27 Nov 2024

Abstract

An Open Government Data (OGD) portal assessment is necessary to track and monitor the progress of the OGD initiative and to drive improvement. Although OGD benchmarks typically focus on assessing and ranking OGD portals, few have been developed specifically for internal process improvement [...] Read more.

An Open Government Data (OGD) portal assessment is necessary to track and monitor the progress of the OGD initiative and to drive improvement. Although OGD benchmarks typically focus on assessing and ranking OGD portals, few have been developed specifically for internal process improvement within the portal. This paper proposes a gap analysis framework to support the Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) cycle to guide OGD portal improvement. The framework adopted the Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) to identify gaps in an OGD portal. The analysis measured the performance and importance of an OGD portal based on data provision and consumption activities. Several factors related to data provision and consumption activities are examined, including dataset creation, updates, views, searches, high-value datasets, resource formats, and user data requests. Gap analysis assessment results can help to identify the current situations of different areas on the portal and their gaps in achieving the objectives. A case study of the Data.go.th portal was conducted to exemplify and validate the framework’s adoption. The analysis results of the case study revealed existing patterns of relationships between data provision and consumption activities that can guide the improvement of similar OGD portals. Full article

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38 pages, 5981 KiB

Open AccessArticle

WordDGA: Hybrid Knowledge-Based Word-Level Domain Names Against DGA Classifiers and Adversarial DGAs

by Sarojini Selvaraj and Rukmani Panjanathan

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040092 (registering DOI) - 26 Nov 2024

Abstract

A Domain Generation Algorithm (DGA) employs botnets to generate domain names through a communication link between the C&C server and the bots. A DGA can generate pseudo-random AGDs (algorithmically generated domains) regularly, a handy method for detecting bots on the C&C server. Unlike [...] Read more.

A Domain Generation Algorithm (DGA) employs botnets to generate domain names through a communication link between the C&C server and the bots. A DGA can generate pseudo-random AGDs (algorithmically generated domains) regularly, a handy method for detecting bots on the C&C server. Unlike current DGA detection methods, AGDs can be identified with lightweight, promising technology. DGAs can prolong the life of a viral operation, improving its profitability. Recent research on the sensitivity of deep learning to various adversarial DGAs has sought to enhance DGA detection techniques. They have character- and word-level classifiers; hybrid-level classifiers may detect and classify AGDs generated by DGAs, significantly diminishing the effectiveness of DGA classifiers. This work introduces WordDGA, a hybrid RCNN-BiLSTM-based adversarial DGA with strong anti-detection capabilities based on NLP and cWGAN, which offers word- and hybrid-level evasion techniques. It initially models the semantic relationships between benign and DGA domains by constructing a prediction model with a hybrid RCNN-BiLSTM network. To optimize the similarity between benign and DGA domain names, it modifies phrases from each input domain using the prediction model to detect DGA family categorizations. The experimental results reveal that dodging numerous wordlists and mixed-level DGA classifiers with training and testing sets improves word repetition rate, domain collision rate, attack success rate, and detection rate, indicating the usefulness of cWGAN-based oversampling in the face of adversarial DGAs. Full article

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15 pages, 4209 KiB

Open AccessReview

Exploring the Adoption of Robotics in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education Institutions

by Samkelisiwe Purity Phokoye, Ayogeboh Epizitone, Ntando Nkomo, Peggy Pinky Mthalane, Smangele Pretty Moyane, Mbalenhle Marcia Khumalo, Mthokozisi Luthuli and Nombuso Phamela Zondi

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040091 - 26 Nov 2024

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a prevalent part of many businesses, including higher education. AI is progressively gaining traction as an instrumental engagement tool in higher education institutions (HEIs). The premise underlying this trend is the potential of robots to foster enhanced student [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a prevalent part of many businesses, including higher education. AI is progressively gaining traction as an instrumental engagement tool in higher education institutions (HEIs). The premise underlying this trend is the potential of robots to foster enhanced student engagement and, consequently, elevate academic performance. Considering this development, HEI’s must probe deeper into the possible adoption of robotics in educational practices. This paper aims to conduct a comprehensive exploration into the adoption of robotics in teaching and learning in the higher education space. To provide a holistic perspective, this study poses three questions: what factors influence robotics uptake in HEIs, how can robots be integrated to improve teaching and learning in HEIs, and what are the perceived benefits of robotics implementation in teaching and learning. A bibliometric analysis and comprehensive review methodology were employed in this study to provide an in-depth assessment of the development, significance, and implications of robotics in HEIs. The dual approach offers a robust evaluation of robotics as a pivotal element needed for the enhancement of teaching and learning practices. The study’s findings uncover the increasing adoption of robotics within the higher education sphere. It also identifies the challenges encountered during adoption, ranging from technical hurdles to educational adjustments. Furthermore, this paper offers guidelines for various stakeholders for the effective integration of robotics into higher education. Full article

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37 pages, 445 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances and Challenges in Low-Resource-Environment Software Systems: A Survey

by Abayomi Agbeyangi and Hussein Suleman

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040090 - 25 Nov 2024

Abstract

A low-resource environment has limitations in terms of resources, such as limited network availability and low-powered computing devices. In such environments, it is arguably more difficult to set up new software systems, maintain existing software, and migrate between software systems. This paper presents [...] Read more.

A low-resource environment has limitations in terms of resources, such as limited network availability and low-powered computing devices. In such environments, it is arguably more difficult to set up new software systems, maintain existing software, and migrate between software systems. This paper presents a survey of software systems for low-resource environments to highlight the challenges (social and technical) and concepts. A qualitative methodology is employed, consisting of an extensive literature review and comparative analysis of selected software systems. The literature covers academic and non-academic sources, focusing on identifying software solutions that address specific challenges in low-resource environments. The selected software systems are categorized based on their ability to overcome challenges such as limited technical skills, device constraints, and socio-cultural issues. The study reveals that despite noteworthy progress, unresolved challenges persist, necessitating further attention to enable the optimal performance of software systems in low-resource environments. Full article

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32 pages, 7951 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Machine Learning for Stunting Prevalence: A Novel Comprehensive Approach to Its Classification, Prediction, and Clustering Optimization in Aceh, Indonesia

by Novia Hasdyna, Rozzi Kesuma Dinata, Rahmi and T. Irfan Fajri

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040089 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Stunting remains a significant public health issue in Aceh, Indonesia, and is influenced by various socio-economic and environmental factors. This study aims to address key challenges in accurately classifying stunting prevalence, predicting future trends, and optimizing clustering methods to support more effective interventions. [...] Read more.

Stunting remains a significant public health issue in Aceh, Indonesia, and is influenced by various socio-economic and environmental factors. This study aims to address key challenges in accurately classifying stunting prevalence, predicting future trends, and optimizing clustering methods to support more effective interventions. To this end, we propose a novel hybrid machine learning framework that integrates classification, predictive modeling, and clustering optimization. Support Vector Machines (SVM) with Radial Basis Function (RBF) and Sigmoid kernels were employed to improve the classification accuracy, with the RBF kernel outperforming the Sigmoid kernel, achieving an accuracy rate of 91.3% compared with 85.6%. This provides a more reliable tool for identifying high-risk populations. Furthermore, linear regression was used for predictive modeling, yielding a low Mean Squared Error (MSE) of 0.137, demonstrating robust predictive accuracy for future stunting prevalence. Finally, the clustering process was optimized using a weighted-product approach to enhance the efficiency of K-Medoids. This optimization reduced the number of iterations from seven to three and improved the Calinski–Harabasz Index from 85.2 to 93.7. This comprehensive framework not only enhances the classification, prediction, and clustering of results but also delivers actionable insights for targeted public health interventions and policymaking aimed at reducing stunting in Aceh. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Informatics)

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16 pages, 2612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influencing Mechanism of Signal Design Elements in Complex Human–Machine System: Evidence from Eye Movement Data

by Siu Shing Man, Wenbo Hu, Hanxing Zhou, Tingru Zhang and Alan Hoi Shou Chan

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040088 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, human–machine interaction has become an issue that should be systematically explored. This research aimed to examine the impact of different pre-cue modes (visual, auditory, and tactile), stimulus modes (visual, auditory, and tactile), compatible mapping modes (both compatible [...] Read more.

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, human–machine interaction has become an issue that should be systematically explored. This research aimed to examine the impact of different pre-cue modes (visual, auditory, and tactile), stimulus modes (visual, auditory, and tactile), compatible mapping modes (both compatible (BC), transverse compatible (TC), longitudinal compatible (LC), and both incompatible (BI)), and stimulus onset asynchrony (200 ms/600 ms) on the performance of participants in complex human–machine systems. Eye movement data and a dual-task paradigm involving stimulus–response and manual tracking were utilized for this study. The findings reveal that visual pre-cues can captivate participants’ attention towards peripheral regions, a phenomenon not observed when visual stimuli are presented in isolation. Furthermore, when confronted with visual stimuli, participants predominantly prioritize continuous manual tracking tasks, utilizing focal vision, while concurrently executing stimulus–response compatibility tasks with peripheral vision. Furthermore, the average pupil diameter tends to diminish with the use of visual pre-cues or visual stimuli but expands during auditory or tactile stimuli or pre-cue modes. These findings contribute to the existing literature on the theoretical design of complex human–machine interfaces and offer practical implications for the design of human–machine system interfaces. Moreover, this paper underscores the significance of considering the optimal combination of stimulus modes, pre-cue modes, and stimulus onset asynchrony, tailored to the characteristics of the human–machine interaction task. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Theories and Applications of Human-Computer Interaction)

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14 pages, 7924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Mango Fruit Production Using Image Analysis and Machine Learning Algorithms

by Liliana Arcila-Diaz, Heber I. Mejia-Cabrera and Juan Arcila-Diaz

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040087 - 16 Nov 2024

Abstract

Mango production is fundamental to the agricultural economy, generating income and employment in various communities. Accurate estimation of its production optimizes the planning and logistics of harvesting; traditionally, manual methods are inefficient and prone to errors. Currently, machine learning, by handling large volumes [...] Read more.

Mango production is fundamental to the agricultural economy, generating income and employment in various communities. Accurate estimation of its production optimizes the planning and logistics of harvesting; traditionally, manual methods are inefficient and prone to errors. Currently, machine learning, by handling large volumes of data, emerges as an innovative solution to enhance the precision of mango production estimation. This study presents an analysis of mango fruit detection using machine learning algorithms, specifically YOLO version 8 and Faster R-CNN. The present study employs a dataset consisting of 212 original images, annotated with a total of 9604 labels, which has been expanded to include 2449 additional images and 116,654 annotations. This significant increase in dataset size notably enhances the robustness and generalization capacity of the model. The YOLO-trained model achieves an accuracy of 96.72%, a recall of 77.4%, and an F1 Score of 86%, compared to the results of Faster R-CNN, which are 98.57%, 63.80%, and 77.46%, respectively. YOLO demonstrates greater efficiency, being faster in training, consuming less memory, and utilizing fewer CPU resources. Furthermore, this study has developed a web application with a user interface that facilitates the uploading of images from mango trees considered samples. The YOLO-trained model detects the fruits of each tree in the representative sample and uses extrapolation techniques to estimate the total number of fruits across the entire population of mango trees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning)

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20 pages, 634 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Use of Artificial Intelligence to Analyze the Exposome in the Development of Chronic Diseases: A Review of the Current Literature

by Stefania Isola, Giuseppe Murdaca, Silvia Brunetto, Emanuela Zumbo, Alessandro Tonacci and Sebastiano Gangemi

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040086 - 12 Nov 2024

Abstract

The “Exposome” is a concept that indicates the set of exposures to which a human is subjected during their lifetime. These factors influence the health state of individuals and can drive the development of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs). Artificial Intelligence (AI) allows one to [...] Read more.

The “Exposome” is a concept that indicates the set of exposures to which a human is subjected during their lifetime. These factors influence the health state of individuals and can drive the development of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs). Artificial Intelligence (AI) allows one to analyze large amounts of data in a short time. As such, several authors have used AI to study the relationship between exposome and chronic diseases. Under such premises, this study reviews the use of AI in analyzing the exposome to understand its role in the development of chronic diseases, focusing on how AI can identify patterns in exposure-related data and support prevention strategies. To achieve this, we carried out a search on multiple databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and SCOPUS, from 1 January 2019 to 31 May 2023, using the MeSH terms (exposome) and (‘Artificial Intelligence’ OR ‘Machine Learning’ OR ‘Deep Learning’) to identify relevant studies on this topic. After completing the identification, screening, and eligibility assessment, a total of 18 studies were included in this literature review. According to the search, most authors used supervised or unsupervised machine learning models to study multiple exposure factors’ role in the risk of developing cardiovascular, metabolic, and chronic respiratory diseases. In some more recent studies, authors also used deep learning. Furthermore, the exposome analysis is useful to study the risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders or evaluating pregnancy outcomes and child growth. Understanding the role of the exposome is pivotal to overcome the classic concept of a single exposure/disease. The application of AI allows one to analyze multiple environmental risks and their combined effects on health conditions. In the future, AI could be helpful in the prevention of chronic diseases, providing new diagnostic, therapeutic, and follow-up strategies. Full article

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28 pages, 2003 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling Zika Virus Disease Dynamics with Control Strategies

by Mlyashimbi Helikumi, Paride O. Lolika, Kimulu Ancent Makau, Muli Charles Ndambuki and Adquate Mhlanga

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040085 - 11 Nov 2024

Abstract

In this research, we formulated a fractional-order model for the transmission dynamics of Zika virus, incorporating three control strategies: health education campaigns, the use of insecticides, and preventive measures. We conducted a theoretical analysis of the model, obtaining the disease-free equilibrium and the [...] Read more.

In this research, we formulated a fractional-order model for the transmission dynamics of Zika virus, incorporating three control strategies: health education campaigns, the use of insecticides, and preventive measures. We conducted a theoretical analysis of the model, obtaining the disease-free equilibrium and the basic reproduction number, and analyzing the existence and uniqueness of the model. Additionally, we performed model parameter estimation using real data on Zika virus cases reported in Colombia. We found that the fractional-order model provided a better fit to the real data compared to the classical integer-order model. A sensitivity analysis of the basic reproduction number was conducted using computed partial rank correlation coefficients to assess the impact of each parameter on Zika virus transmission. Furthermore, we performed numerical simulations to determine the effect of memory on the spread of Zika virus. The simulation results showed that the order of derivatives significantly impacts the dynamics of the disease. We also assessed the effect of the control strategies through simulations, concluding that the proposed interventions have the potential to significantly reduce the spread of Zika virus in the population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Informatics)

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15 pages, 1356 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Can ChatGPT Support Clinical Coding Using the ICD-10-CM/PCS?

by Bernardo Nascimento Teixeira, Ana Leitão, Generosa Nascimento, Adalberto Campos-Fernandes and Francisco Cercas

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040084 - 7 Nov 2024

Abstract

Introduction: With the growing development and adoption of artificial intelligence in healthcare and across other sectors of society, various user-friendly and engaging tools to support research have emerged, such as chatbots, notably ChatGPT. Objective: To investigate the performance of ChatGPT as an assistant [...] Read more.

Introduction: With the growing development and adoption of artificial intelligence in healthcare and across other sectors of society, various user-friendly and engaging tools to support research have emerged, such as chatbots, notably ChatGPT. Objective: To investigate the performance of ChatGPT as an assistant to medical coders using the ICD-10-CM/PCS. Methodology: We conducted a prospective exploratory study between 2023 and 2024 over 6 months. A total of 150 clinical cases coded using the ICD-10-CM/PCS, extracted from technical coding books, were systematically randomized. All cases were translated into Portuguese (the native language of the authors) and English (the native language of the ICD-10-CM/PCS). These clinical cases varied in complexity levels regarding the quantity of diagnoses and procedures, as well as the nature of the clinical information. Each case was input into the 2023 ChatGPT free version. The coding obtained from ChatGPT was analyzed by a senior medical auditor/coder and compared with the expected results. Results: Regarding the correct codes, ChatGPT’s performance was higher by approximately 29 percentage points between diagnoses and procedures, with greater proficiency in diagnostic codes. The accuracy rate for codes was similar across languages, with rates of 31.0% and 31.9%. The error rate in procedure codes was substantially higher than that in diagnostic codes by almost four times. For missing information, a higher incidence was observed in diagnoses compared to procedures of slightly more than double the comparative rates. Additionally, there was a statistically significant excess of codes not related to clinical information, which was higher in procedures and nearly the same value in both languages under study. Conclusion: Given the ease of access to these tools, this investigation serves as an awareness factor, demonstrating that ChatGPT can assist the medical coder in directed research. However, it does not replace their technical validation in this process. Therefore, further developments of this tool are necessary to increase the quality and reliability of the results. Full article

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14 pages, 3118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Web Traffic Anomaly Detection Using Isolation Forest

by Wilson Chua, Arsenn Lorette Diamond Pajas, Crizelle Shane Castro, Sean Patrick Panganiban, April Joy Pasuquin, Merwin Jan Purganan, Rica Malupeng, Divine Jessa Pingad, John Paul Orolfo, Haron Hakeen Lua and Lemuel Clark Velasco

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040083 - 5 Nov 2024

Abstract

As companies increasingly undergo digital transformation, the value of their data assets also rises, making them even more attractive targets for hackers. The large volume of weblogs warrants the use of advanced classification methodologies in order for cybersecurity specialists to identify web traffic [...] Read more.

As companies increasingly undergo digital transformation, the value of their data assets also rises, making them even more attractive targets for hackers. The large volume of weblogs warrants the use of advanced classification methodologies in order for cybersecurity specialists to identify web traffic anomalies. This study aims to implement Isolation Forest, an unsupervised machine learning methodology in the identification of anomalous and non-anomalous web traffic. The publicly available weblogs dataset from an e-commerce website underwent data preparation through a systematic pipeline of processes involving data ingestion, data type conversion, data cleaning, and normalization. This led to the addition of derived columns in the training set and manually labeled testing set that was then used to compare the anomaly detection performance of the Isolation Forest model with that of cybersecurity experts. The developed Isolation Forest model was implemented using the Python Scikit-learn library, and exhibited a superior Accuracy of 93%, Precision of 95%, Recall of 90% and F1-Score of 92%. By appropriate data preparation, model development, model implementation, and model evaluation, this study shows that Isolation Forest can be a viable solution for close to accurate web traffic anomaly detection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning)

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16 pages, 1125 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceptions of AI Integration in the UAE’s Creative Sector

by Asma Hassouni and Noha Mellor

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040082 - 4 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study explores the perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) within the creative sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) based on 13 semi-structured interviews and a survey with 224 participants among media professionals and their stakeholders. The findings indicate considerable enthusiasm surrounding AI’s [...] Read more.

This study explores the perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) within the creative sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) based on 13 semi-structured interviews and a survey with 224 participants among media professionals and their stakeholders. The findings indicate considerable enthusiasm surrounding AI’s potential to augment creativity and drive operational efficiency, a perspective that the study’s participants share. However, there are also apprehensions regarding job displacement and the necessity for strategic upskilling. Participants generally regard AI as an unavoidable technological influence that demands adaptation and seamless integration into daily workflows. The study underscores the disparity between the UAE’s government-led digital transformation objectives and the actual implementation within organizations, underscoring the urgent need for cohesive strategic alignment. The findings caution that the absence of clear directives and strategic planning may precipitate a new digital schism, impeding progress in the sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Human-Computer Interaction)

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25 pages, 881 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Early Estimation in Agile Software Development Projects: A Systematic Mapping Study

by José Gamaliel Rivera Ibarra, Gilberto Borrego and Ramón R. Palacio

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040081 - 4 Nov 2024

Abstract

Estimating during the early stages is crucial for determining the feasibility and conducting the budgeting and planning of agile software development (ASD) projects. However, due to the characteristics of ASD and limited initial information, these estimates are often complicated and inaccurate. This study [...] Read more.

Estimating during the early stages is crucial for determining the feasibility and conducting the budgeting and planning of agile software development (ASD) projects. However, due to the characteristics of ASD and limited initial information, these estimates are often complicated and inaccurate. This study aims to systematically map the literature to identify the most used estimation techniques; the reasons for their selection; the input artifacts, predictors, and metrics associated with these techniques; as well as research gaps in early-stage estimations in ASD. This study was based on the guidelines proposed by Kitchenham for systematic literature reviews in software engineering; a review protocol was defined with research questions and criteria for the selection of empirical studies. Results show that data-driven techniques are preferred to reduce biases and inconsistencies of expert-driven techniques. Most selected studies do not mention input artifacts, and software size is the most commonly used predictor. Machine learning-based techniques use publicly available data but often contain records of old projects from before the agile movement. The study highlights the need for tools supporting estimation activities and identifies key areas for future research, such as evaluating hybrid approaches and creating datasets of recent projects with sufficient contextual information and standardized metrics. Full article

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32 pages, 2717 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Visible Light Communication Channel Estimation in Complex 3D Environments: An Open-Source Ray Tracing Simulation Framework

by Véronique Georlette, Nicolas Vallois, Véronique Moeyaert and Bruno Quoitin

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040080 - 31 Oct 2024

Abstract

Estimating the optical power distribution in a room in order to assess the performance of a visible light communication (VLC) system is nothing new. It can be estimated using a Monte Carlo optical ray tracing algorithm that sums the contribution of each ray [...] Read more.

Estimating the optical power distribution in a room in order to assess the performance of a visible light communication (VLC) system is nothing new. It can be estimated using a Monte Carlo optical ray tracing algorithm that sums the contribution of each ray on the reception plane. For now, research has focused on rectangular parallelepipedic rooms with single-textured walls, when studying indoor applications. This article presents a new open-source simulator that answers the case of more complex rooms by analysing them using a 3D STL (stereolithography) model. This paper describes this new tool in detail, with the material used, the software architecture, the ray tracing algorithm, and validates it against the literature and presents new use cases. To the best of our knowledge, this simulator is the only free and open-source ray tracing analysis for complex 3D rooms for VLC research. In particular, this simulator is capable of studying any room shape, such as an octagon or an L-shape. The user has the opportunity to control the number of emitters, their orientation, and especially the number of rays emitted and reflected. The final results are detailed heat maps, enabling the visualization of the optical power distribution across any 3D room. This tool is innovative both visually (using 3D models) and mathematically (estimating the coverage of a VLC system). Full article

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10 pages, 223 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blockchain Technology in K-12 Computer Science Education?!

by Rupert Gehrlein and Andreas Dengel

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040079 - 30 Oct 2024

Abstract

The blockchain technology and its applications, such as cryptocurrencies or non-fungible tokens, represent significant advancements in computer science. Alongside its transformative potential, human interaction with blockchain has led to notable negative implications, including cybersecurity vulnerabilities, high energy consumption in mining activities, environmental impacts, [...] Read more.

The blockchain technology and its applications, such as cryptocurrencies or non-fungible tokens, represent significant advancements in computer science. Alongside its transformative potential, human interaction with blockchain has led to notable negative implications, including cybersecurity vulnerabilities, high energy consumption in mining activities, environmental impacts, and the prevalence of economic fraud and high-risk financial products. Considering the expanding range of blockchain applications, there is interest in exploring its integration into K-12 education. For this purpose, this paper examines existing and documented attempts through a systematic literature review. Although the findings are quantitatively limited, they reveal initial concepts and ideas. Full article

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15 pages, 485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Educational Roles and Scenarios for Large Language Models: An Ethnographic Research Study of Artificial Intelligence

by Nikša Alfirević, Darko Rendulić, Maja Fošner and Ajda Fošner

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040078 - 29 Oct 2024

Abstract

This paper reviews the theoretical background and potential applications of Large Language Models (LLMs) in educational processes and academic research. Utilizing a novel digital ethnographic approach, we engaged in iterative research with OpenAI’s ChatGPT-4 and Google’s Gemini Ultra—two advanced commercial LLMs. The methodology [...] Read more.

This paper reviews the theoretical background and potential applications of Large Language Models (LLMs) in educational processes and academic research. Utilizing a novel digital ethnographic approach, we engaged in iterative research with OpenAI’s ChatGPT-4 and Google’s Gemini Ultra—two advanced commercial LLMs. The methodology treated LLMs as research participants, emphasizing the AI-guided perspectives and their envisioned roles in educational settings. Our findings identified the potential LLM roles in educational and research processes and we discussed the AI challenges, which included potential biases in decision-making and AI as a potential source of discrimination and conflict of interest. In addition to practical implications, we used the qualitative research results to advise on the relevant topics for future research. Full article

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24 pages, 2727 KiB

Open AccessArticle

TableExtractNet: A Model of Automatic Detection and Recognition of Table Structures from Unstructured Documents

by Thokozani Ngubane and Jules-Raymond Tapamo

Informatics 2024, 11(4), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics11040077 - 25 Oct 2024

Abstract

This paper presents TableExtractNet, a model that automatically finds and understands tables from scanned documents, tasks that are essential for quick use of information in many fields. This is driven by the growing need for efficient and accurate table interpretation in business documents [...] Read more.

This paper presents TableExtractNet, a model that automatically finds and understands tables from scanned documents, tasks that are essential for quick use of information in many fields. This is driven by the growing need for efficient and accurate table interpretation in business documents where tables enhance data communication and aid decision-making. The model uses a mix of two advanced techniques, CornerNet and Faster R-CNN, to accurately locate tables and understand their layout. Tests on standard datasets, IIIT-AR-13K, STDW, SciTSR, and PubTabNet, show that this model performs better than previous ones, making it very good at dealing with tables that have complicated designs or are in documents with a lot of detail. The success of this model marks a step forward in making document analysis more automated. It makes it easier to turn complex scanned documents containing tables into data that are more manipulable by computers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning)

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