Proceedings of the MEi:CogSci Conference
The "Proceedings of the MEi:CogSci Conference" is an interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed journal, providing a quality platform for original work by students/participants from all partner universities of the international Middle European interdisciplinary master's programme in Cognitive Science (https://www.meicogsci.eu/). All submissions to this journal are extended abstracts, submitted alongside either a poster or oral presentation for the MEi:CogSci Conference. Articles range across the entire scope of cognitive science, touching on aspects of anthropology, artificial intelligence, economics, education science, linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology. The journal provides a platform for interaction between young cognitive scientists with backgrounds in these fields, as well as others ranging from fine arts, economy, to engineering and maths. As a result, the journal publishes in all areas of cognitive science, covering a wide range of phenomena and offering a heterogeneous set of methodologies.
Welcome, Acknowledgements & Editors’ Note
Dear Coxies, dear MEi:CogSci partners and friends, dear guests, and everyone engaging with our online proceedings, Welcome to the 19th MEi:CogSci Conference, this year proudly hosted by the University of Ljubljana! As cognitive science continues to explore the intricacies of natural and artificial intelligence, the questions we pose and the tools we use to answer them are evolving rapidly. We find ourselves at a pivotal moment. Large language models are not only transforming communication but also becoming collaborators in creative and cognitive tasks. This shift has sparked conversations about meaning, trust, and identity which are indispensable in the age of intelligent systems. How can we adapt such technologies responsibly for education, therapy, and society? What do they reveal about the underlying principles of cognition, and where do they fall short? The diversity of this year’s student contributions reflects the broad and evolving scope of cognitive science. Topics range from identity in decision-making, social cognition, and predictive modeling of misinformation, to music and dance in early development, cognitive bias in virtual environments, and human-AI interaction. Several projects explore large language models, their role in language acquisition, common-sense reasoning, and grammar correction. Others investigate neural mechanisms through brain imaging, neurofeedback, and brain stimulation, or examine assistive technologies for aging, dementia, and aphasia. The program also includes studies on robotic learning, tool use in animals, epistemic translation through AI, and the cognitive framing of science communication. Together, these contributions highlight how MEi:CogSci students are engaging with cognition across levels, e.g., biological, psychological, technological, and social, and developing insights that speak to real-world challenges and opportunities. What unites these investigations is a shared commitment to integrating knowledge across disciplines to better understand the mind, and to shape technologies that reflect and respect our cognitive, social, and ethical values. At the MEi:CogSci program, we are proud to support the next generation of interdisciplinary scholars. Their work not only advances academic inquiry but also addresses real-world issues with creativity and care. This spirit of critical curiosity and ethical reflection defines our community and gives shape to this year’s proceedings. Acknowledgments We are grateful to the Faculty of Education of the University of Ljubljana for hosting the conference this year. This event has only been possible with the support and commitment of all student volunteers, faculty, and staff of the University of Ljubljana, especially the organising team: Urška Martinc, Toma Strle, Katarina Verbič, and Tina Geč. We also want to thank our invited speakers Gregor Majdič (rector of the University of Ljubljana), Urban Kordeš (University of Ljubljana), and Brigitte Römmer-Nossek (University of Vienna) for joining us this year and for sharing their expertise with us. The dedication of our graduates to their diverse and successful career paths, and their participation in the MEi:CogSci community even after graduation, is an inspiration to our students and young researchers. We deeply appreciate their shared insights during the alumni panel and their contribution to an open dialogue between both current and former students. We also want to express our gratitude to all reviewers and supervisors who provide the foundation for this event. Their involvement and thorough input helped to develop the underlying research and elevated the publications in these proceedings to higher academic standards. In addition, we would like to thank all who sent in designs for the conference logo for their creative efforts! Congratulations and special thanks to Udo Schimanofsky, whose logo this year reminds us to unlock our (action) potentials. And last but not least, it is you, Coxies, who make this conference. Your posters, talks, and initiatives are what inspire and constitute this event. It is your enthusiasm and curiosity for interdisciplinary research that makes the MEi:CogSci Conference 2025 not only happen, but an exciting and joyful event to be part of! Thank you for joining us in this celebration of interdisciplinary thinking. We invite you to explore the contributions within these proceedings with an open mind and a forward-looking perspective. Editors’ Note We, the editors, thank all the MEi:CogSci students/authors for submitting their work to the MEi:CogSci Conference 2025. We are happy to present your work in the conference proceedings and to contribute to the field of cognitive science by covering such a variety of interesting topics. The MEi:CogSci conference and its proceedings are a joint effort. The editors ensure that the work submitted to the conference is in accordance with the conference guidelines for authors. Thus, the editors revise the submissions in respect to formal criteria and formatting issues. Participating students/authors are expected to adhere to good scientific practice and to honor the regulations relating to academic conduct. The students'/authors' responsibilities include the usage of references and citations in a transparent, precise, and correct manner, as well as issues regarding the style, spelling, and grammar of their abstracts. Thank you all for allowing us to represent MEi:CogSci and our program’s understanding of cognitive science through your submissions of original work!
Copyright (c) 2025 Elisabeth Zimmermann, Evelyn Fischer, Peter Hochenauer, Udo Schimanofsky, Tiziana Srdoc https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Academic writing is a form of professional writing. Becoming an academic writer does not only mean to master the genre, it involves the development of authorship and personal epistemology. Tools like ChatGPT will certainly influence individual writing strategies. The theories and models introduced to understand academic writing development provide a framework for tackling the open question if and how they may influence writing development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Brigitte Römmer-Nossek https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Mastering the Master Thesis: Planning and Writing Tips
There are as many writing processes as there are writers. However, academic writing projects eventually pass through similar stages. Process oriented writing didactics have been developed to support writers in mastering the challenges involved in a large writing project. In the workshop, you will widen your repertoire of writing strategies by working on your project and reflecting together. Target group: Students currently working on their master thesis.
Swing Out! A Lindy Hop Taster on Musicality and Embodied Connection
Improvised dancing with a partner offers a unique insight into embodied cognition, joint interaction and musicality. In this workshop we want to practically explore this through a beginner’s class in Lindy Hop. Music and dancing have been an integral part of human culture since ancient times and they are intertwined with many different cognitive faculties [1]. Dancing with a partner requires the anticipation of the partner’s intentions based on bodily cues, musical timing, and shared social context [2]. In dance, leaders must plan actions before execution, while followers must attend closely to both physical and musical signals and understand broader patterns. The required cognitive processing can either be facilitated or impeded by the clarity of the music. Lindy Hop is a swing dance that developed in the 1930s in the African American working class and experienced a revival in the 1990s as a dance for the predominantly white middle class. It is marked by high kinetic energy, involving use of the entire body in the dance. It also heavily relies on improvisation [3] and is a social dance in which everyone dances with rotating dance partners rather than having one assigned partner. In this workshop we will experience this dance and its cultural roots first-hand with a beginner’s dance class. Whether you are curious about the history of Lindy Hop, or just want to try out a new dance, this workshop is for you. Rather than learning a fixed choreography we want to focus on feeling the music and following it through movement. You will be equipped with the basic step pattern, some turns, and a few kicks and tricks to set you on a path to free improvisation. You’ll also experience what it means to change dance partners frequently, and how this shapes the perception of the dance and interpersonal communication. Last, but not least, you’ll swing, groove, mess up sometimes and laugh about it. So, grab your dance shoes and get ready to Swing Out! [1] M. Pearce and M. Rohrmeier, “Music Cognition and the Cognitive Sciences,” Topics in Cognitive Science, vol. 4, no. 4, pp. 468–484, Oct. 2012, Available: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1756-8765.2012.01226.x. [2] J. Phillips-Silver, C. A. Aktipis, and G. A. Bryant, “The Ecology of Entrainment: Foundations of Coordinated Rhythmic Movement,” Music Perception, vol. 28, no. 1, pp. 3–14, Sep. 2010, Available: https://doi.org/10.1525/mp.2010.28.1.3. [3] H. Spring, “Swing and the Lindy Hop: Dance, Venue, Media, and Tradition,” American Music, vol. 15, no. 2, p. 183, 1997, doi: https://doi.org/10.2307/3052731.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sarah Marie Wingert https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Love accompanies us from the cradle to the grave. The first and perhaps most powerful form of love we experience is a mother’s love—an intense emotional bond triggered at birth that ensures care and, ultimately, the survival of the newborn. As we grow, motherly love often gives way to romantic love between partners—a connection that may last a lifetime or be repeatedly kindled with new partners throughout our lives. But what exactly is love? Is it something we cannot fully comprehend? A biochemical illusion? A kind of intoxication? Neuroscience seeks to understand what happens in our brains when we fall in love. Although we are far from fully grasping the neural mechanics behind love, we are beginning to decipher the changes that occur when we enter a romantic relationship and when we remain in a long-term bond. Monogamy, for instance, is widespread in birds—over 90% of bird species involve both parents in raising offspring. In contrast, it is relatively rare in mammals, with only about 5% forming lasting monogamous bonds. Much of what we know about the neurobiology of monogamy in mammals comes from the study of voles—small, furry rodents. Interestingly, some vole species are promiscuous, while others mate for life. Research on monogamous prairie voles has revealed that two neurotransmitters—oxytocin and vasopressin—play key roles in forming long-term pair bonds. During initial mating, these chemicals modulate dopamine activity in the brain’s reward system, reinforcing a desire to remain together. Similar mechanisms may be at work in humans. Studies suggest that oxytocin, and likely also vasopressin, contribute to human bonding, trust, and emotional connection. Serotonin levels also fluctuate when we're in love, although its precise role remains unclear. Brain imaging studies have shown activity changes across several brain regions during romantic love, but the relationship between these neural patterns and the subjective experience of love is still not fully understood. We are gradually uncovering the neural basis of love, but a complete understanding remains elusive. And perhaps, even if we were to map every molecule and neural circuit involved, love would still retain its mystery—an emotion as complex and profound as consciousness itself.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gregor Majdič https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Mind-wandering (MW) refers to spontaneous shifts of attention away from external tasks or stimuli toward internally generated thoughts, memories, or imaginings. The phenomenon gained scientific prominence with the discovery of the Default Mode Network—a brain network that becomes active during rest or when thought is decoupled from the immediate environment. Prior to this discovery, cognitive science had largely overlooked MW, despite its ubiquity: studies suggest that such experiences occupy more than half of our waking mental life, with estimates ranging from 55% to 80%. While research on MW is now thriving, it tends to focus on behavioral and physiological aspects. The first-person perspective—what it actually feels like to mind-wander—remains underexplored. Yet the few systematic studies of the experiential dimension of MW have yielded strikingly rich, colorful, and often surprising results. In the talk, I will highlight two phenomenological dimensions of thought: so called "illustration" and the felt sense of content. We will explore the kinds of social encounters that unfold in our inner wandering worlds, and consider what these imagined or remembered interactions might reveal about the nature of the self. Most importantly, I will share a series of concrete examples of mind-wanderings as they were actually experienced—offering glimpses into the many faces of a phenomenon that shapes more than half of our mental lives.
Copyright (c) 2025 Urban Kordeš https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Is There Even Another Way Besides Open Science?
Over the last decade, the open science movement has become increasingly important due to concerns about research transparency, reproducibility, and integrity. Scientists and scholarly journals are adopting practices such as publicly sharing hypotheses and data to improve the quality and trustworthiness of research. As students and aspiring scientists, we are the future of this movement. Contributing to the improvement of global scientific practices will be essential for both our careers and the future of science. However, good intentions alone are not enough. Engaging with open science requires that we learn new skills and new methodological and conceptual content, which can feel overwhelming. This workshop aims to ease us into the open science framework by introducing its core principles and practices that we can already engage with as students. After the introduction, we will play an interactive open science board game and hopefully have fun learning about and discussing open science concepts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tiziana Srdoc https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Behavioural Assessment of Coding Strategies in Spatial Working Memory
Introduction Spatial working memory (sWM) allows temporary retention of spatial information. To support this function, the brain uses different coding strategies. Sensory coding preserves the target as a perceptual representation, whereas motor coding encodes it as a planned movement [1]. Likewise, allocentric (object‑centered) frames reference external landmarks, while egocentric (self‑centered) frames use the observer’s body and gaze [2]. This study investigates how distinct spatial coding strategies support the encoding and maintenance of locations in working memory. To address this, we developed a behavioural paradigm that systematically promotes each strategy, combined with a self-report questionnaire to assess participants’ encoding approaches. The aim was to determine whether these strategies yield measurable differences in recall precision and variability. Methods Thirty-eight participants (31 women, 7 men; mean age 20 ± 1 year) completed five tasks: simple, sensory, motor, allocentric and egocentric. In the simple task, participants viewed a stimulus at various screen locations and, after a 10‑second delay, moved their eyes to its remembered position. In the sensory condition, they first shifted gaze to a new point before responding, which disrupted motor planning and relied on sensory memory. In the motor condition, participants first looked at the remembered location, enabling direct motor execution. Allocentric and egocentric tasks required recalling the target based on either absolute screen coordinates or relative to a shifted fixation point, respectively. Eye movements were recorded via EyeLink 1000. Results Participants' spatial recall precision differed across task conditions, as measured by the Euclidean distance between target and response locations. Smaller distances indicated more accurate spatial recall. The motor condition yielded the smallest median error and lowest variability, indicating the most precise responses. The simple condition showed slightly higher errors but remained relatively consistent. The sensory condition produced moderately increased errors and variability. In contrast, the allocentric condition resulted in larger errors and greater response spread, while the egocentric condition showed the highest overall error and variability across participants. Discussion These results suggest that different task conditions promoted distinct spatial coding strategies, reflected in systematic differences in recall precision. Highest accuracy in the motor condition indicates that planned movements support more effective encoding. In contrast, allocentric and egocentric conditions, which required spatial transformations, led to greater errors and variability. This supports the interpretation that increased cognitive demands reduce recall precision. While behavioural data alone limit insight into underlying mechanisms, future fMRI research will help clarify the neural basis of these strategies. References [1] N. Purg, M. Starc, A. S. Ozimič, A. Kraljič, A. Matkovič, and G. Repovš, “Neural evidence for different types of position coding strategies in spatial working memory,” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, vol. 16, 2022. [Online]. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.821545. [Accessed: May 9, 2025]. [2] A. D. Ekstrom and E. A. Isham, “Human spatial navigation: representations across dimensions and scales,” Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, vol. 17, pp. 84–89, 2017. [Online]. doi: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2017.06.005. [Accessed: May 9, 2025].
Copyright (c) 2025 Blažka Bojnec, Žan Koprivec Perjet, Nina Purg Suljič, Anka Slana Ozimič, Grega Repovš https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
The Influence of Different Breathing Frequencies on the Autonomic Nervous System
Heart rate variability (HRV) is a marker of autonomic nervous system flexibility and stress adaptability. It reflects the natural fluctuations in the time between heartbeats and is considered an indicator of the body's capacity to regulate physiological and psychological stress. Lower HRV is generally associated with reduced adaptability and increased vulnerability to stress [1]. At the Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, we explored whether slow-paced breathing could induce parasympathetic activation by testing the effects of six different breathing frequencies on HRV. The main objective of the preliminary study was to find the natural resonance frequency of each subject based on the measured data and reported experiences of comfort and relaxation across different breathing rates. Additionally, we wanted to assess the level of correlation between subjects’ perceived level of comfort and the calculated natural resonance frequency. We tested six breathing frequencies: 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, and 6.5 breaths per minute. For each frequency, the exhalation was set to be 20% longer than the inhalation to encourage parasympathetic activation [2]. Subjects were instructed to follow the auditory cues of a paced breathing application. Each breathing trial lasted two minutes, followed by one minute of spontaneous breathing. After each trial, participants described their experience and rated the level of breathing comfort from 0 to 7 (0 least comfortable, 7 the most). Throughout the experiment, we tracked respiratory patterns using a breathing belt while continuously measuring ECG signals to monitor heart activity and electrodermal activity (EDA) to assess skin conductance to indicate the arousal of the sympathetic nervous system. We analyzed the data with Kubios HRV software and calculated the natural resonance frequency of each participant using the resonance frequency assessment protocol [3]. Our analysis raises questions about its authority to define a person's optimal breathing frequency. Participants largely failed to identify this frequency themselves; only one matched the analysis. As no clear correlation emerged between perceived comfort and calculated optimal frequency, subjective experience challenges our conclusions – an issue further complicated by the limited sample size (n = 8). Further research should aim to develop a suitable long-term resonance breathing protocol that would allow users to practice breathing at their natural resonance frequency, supporting regulation of the autonomic nervous system, improvement of HRV, and overall well-being. It should also address the gap between subjective experience and analytically derived optimal frequency. References [1] F. Shaffer, R. McCraty, and C. L. Zerr, “A healthy heart is not a metronome: an integrative review of the heart’s anatomy and heart rate variability,” Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 5, no. 1040, Sep. 2014. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01040. ‌[2] A. Zaccaro et al., “How breath-control can change your life: A systematic review on psycho-physiological correlates of slow breathing,” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, vol. 12, no. 353, pp. 1–16, Sep. 2018. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2018.00353. [3] P. Lehrer et al., “Protocol for Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback Training,” Biofeedback, vol. 41, no. 3, pp. 98–109, Sep. 2013. doi: 10.5298/1081-5937-41.3.08.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tina Geč, Jakob Radmilovič, Maja Derlink https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
EEG and fNIRS Measurement of Brain Activity in Response to Affective Images
This pilot study utilizes a multimodal neuroimaging approach, combining electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to explore neural responses to images which elicit basic emotions: disgust, fear, happiness, and neutrality. Combining techniques that measure brain activity based on different physiological mechanisms, such as in this case neural electrical activity and hemodynamic activity, enables a more comprehensive insight into brain function [1]. Pioneering research in emotional processing indicates that both pleasant and unpleasant stimuli elicit stronger neural responses than neutral stimuli, reflected in amplitude changes across early, middle, and late ERP components [2]. Unlike many previous studies that focus primarily on the valence dimension (positive vs. negative emotions), this study emphasizes basic emotions as distinct categories. Participants passively viewed a sequence of 75 images, drawn from three verified and standardized datasets, designed to elicit basic emotions. The sample included 10 participants (9 females, 1 male; mean age 22), with one outlier in her late 50s. A 32-channel EEG system, arranged according to the international 10/5 system, was used to measure electrical brain activity, particularly event-related potentials (ERPs) such as P3 and late positive potential (LPP), while an 8-channel fNIRS array was used to measure hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal cortex. Based on our measurements and prior research, we anticipate that emotional images will evoke stronger ERP components (particularly in the prefrontal and centro-parietal regions) than neutral images [3]. We also expect to observe increased blood oxygenation in the left prefrontal cortex, as seen in prior studies regardless of emotion type [1]. Furthermore, we hypothesize that the EEG and fNIRS data will correlate, reflecting complementary aspects of brain activity during emotional stimulus processing. If the hypothesis is confirmed, this methodology may prove valuable for future studies investigating emotional responses. References [1] M. Balconi, E. Grippa, and M. E. Vanutelli, "What hemodynamic (fNIRS), electrophysiological (EEG) and autonomic integrated measures can tell us about emotional processing," Brain and Cognition, vol. 95, pp. 67–76, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.bandc.2015.02.001. [2] L. Carretié, J. A. Hinojosa, and F. Mercado, "Cerebral patterns of attentional habituation to emotional visual stimuli," Psychophysiology, vol. 40, no. 3, pp. 381–388, 2003. doi: 10.1111/1469-8986.00041. [3] T. Štrempfel, “Passive Viewing of Affective Images: A Multimodal Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy and Electroencephalography Study”, Master’s thesis, T. Štrempfel, Ljubljana, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://repozitorij.uni-lj.si/IzpisGradiva.php?id=160739.
Copyright (c) 2025 Veronika Čuš, Eva Frešer, Ted Stamsnijder https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Introduction Music can be introduced into the hospital setting in various ways, and it has been proven to have a positive effect on patients` well-being. It can also serve as a way of pain management [1]. Music therapy is provided by professionally trained therapists who engage with patients and their parents in musical improvisation through the use of instruments, singing, body movement, and speech, with the aim of enhancing well-being and alleviating pain. In this study we evaluate experiences and observations of students who accompany the therapist and actively participate in the therapeutic process. The findings aim to provide insight into the nature of interactions and relational processes established between the implementers and recipients of music therapy. Methods The study included eight female musical art students who participated in a total of thirty music therapy sessions conducted at the pediatric clinic. Each student completed a questionnaire designed to capture their observations and subjective experiences. Six of them were invited to take part in a phenomenological interview, aiming to obtain richer, first-person insights into their experiences. Through qualitative data analysis, we aim to identify recurring themes and categories that can enhance our understanding of the various aspects and nuances involved in introducing music into a sensitive and vulnerable clinical environment. In addition to their observational reports, the study also explores the students’ own experience of participating in the therapeutic process. Discussion According to existing studies [2], interactive music therapy with hospitalized pediatric patients has a calming and enjoyable effect on both the children and their parents. Our study is still ongoing, however, preliminary reports indicate that some children respond very positively to the therapy. They become engaged, and their mood improves. We have observed that parental involvement plays a significant role in shaping how children interact with the therapists and the music. When parents collaborate and encourage their children to participate, the children tend to have more positive experiences. Furthermore, it appears that therapy is beneficial for parents too. Students report that presence of staff during therapy influences the dynamics of it. Beyond their observations, students also reflect on their own emotional and experiential responses, describing moments of joy, uncertainty, and personal growth as they accompany the therapeutic process. These findings highlight the relational nature of music interventions, suggesting that their success depends not only on the child and the therapist, but also on the broader social context. References [1] T.-T. Zhang et al., "The effects of music therapy on peripherally inserted central catheter in hospitalized children with leukemia," Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, pp. 1–11, Jun. 2022. [2] M. E. Barrera, M. H. Rykov, and S. L. Doyle, "The effects of interactive music therapy on hospitalized children with cancer: a pilot study," Psycho-Oncology, vol. 11, no. 5, pp. 379–388, 2002.
Copyright (c) 2025 Uroš Kosič, Tjaša Srotič, Katarina Habe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Toward an Ontology of the Self: A Theoretical Framework
Introduction In typical circumstances, the Self is experienced as a complex, multi-aspect entity [1]. Disciplines such as psychology and neuroscience identify a variety of these aspects, emphasizing how they relate to, e.g., mental-health-related constructs. Our work is part of a larger project that seeks to develop a computational system to identify Self-aspects in text. This could be used by professionals across disciplines to detect those Self-aspects most relevant to their specific objectives, based on textual data such as clinical interviews or personal narratives. However, pursuing this goal requires the construction of a comprehensive overview of Self-aspects, which is currently lacking. Methodology Our study, theoretical in nature, addresses this issue. Specifically, we aim to build a Self ontology in which Self-aspects (i.e., the core dimensions constituting the Self), elements (i.e., the specific components making up each aspect), and modes (i.e., the characteristic ways in which aspects or elements manifest in experience) are defined. Each will be accompanied by examples of text instances showing either its presence or absence. To achieve this, we first reviewed core literature on the Self, identifying key terms and establishing a foundational understanding from which to develop our ontology. We prioritised Self-aspects that are both relevant to potential applied contexts and plausibly detectable in textual data. Drawing on these definitions, we identified relevant instances across, e.g., academic texts, articles, Reddit posts, phenomenological interview transcripts [1]. Findings So far, we have focused on two Self-aspects: Sense of Agency (SoA) and Bodily Self (BS). SoA refers to the sense of having control, the capacity to act intentionally, make decisions, influence outcomes, and attribute those outcomes to oneself [2]. One of the many ways agency has been categorized is by its State of activation [3]. This includes three modes: active (full control), reduced agency (limited manipulation and partial engagement), and passive (little or no sense of agency). BS refers to the experience of one’s physical body [3]. It comprises elements such as Bodily Sensations, Spatial Location, Awareness, and Identification, among others, which interact in complex ways to generate a coherent and unified experience. For example, the Sense of Ownership, which one might feel for the whole body, only parts of it, or even for objects completely removed, can be modulated by the SoA and vice versa. Conclusion The main limitation of our work lies in the necessary reduction of complex and intertwined phenomena into discrete entities. However, this effort to clearly define a structured framework aims to lay the foundation for further research into the nature of the Self and Self-related constructs. References [1] J. Caporusso, “Dissolution experiences and the experience of the self: An empirical phenomenological investigation,” M.S. thesis, Dept. Phil., Univ. of Vienna, Vienna, Austria, 2022. [Online]. doi: 10.25365/thesis.71694. [2] A. Bandura, “Toward a Psychology of Human Agency: Pathways and Reflections”, Perspect. Psychol. Sci., vol. 13, no. 2, pp. 130–136, Mar. 2018. doi: 10.1177/1745691617699280. [3] O. Nave et al., “Self-Boundary Dissolution in Meditation: A Phenomenological Investigation”, Brain Sciences, vol. 11, no. 6, p. 819, Jun. 2021. doi: 10.3390/brainsci11060819.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tia Križan, Luka Oprešnik, Jaya Caporusso https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Cognition Under Siege: Narrative Strategies and Cognitive Biases in Contemporary Disinformation
In recent years, misinformation campaigns have evolved significantly in both scale and sophistication. With enhanced modern technologies, malicious actors are equipped with a broader repertoire of tools to leverage our cognitive vulnerabilities, risking manipulation of perception [1]. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, false information about evacuees from Wuhan circulating on social media incited riots in Eastern Ukraine [2]. In another case, Russian outlets disseminated narratives portraying Europe as a dictatorship, claiming that terrified citizens were experiencing severe restrictions on freedom of expression [3]. In such examples, misinformation is not merely an instrument or tool of deception but a strategic weapon in cognitive warfare, used to undermine trust in public authorities or to elicit emotional responses, and ultimately to destabilize collective understanding of a situation. Through the propagation of such false information, one can systematically influence an individual’s thought processes and alter their situational perception. This form of cognitive infiltration can lead to dramatic shifts of worldviews, values, knowledge, and personal or collective consciousness, often in service of a political or ideological agenda. This thesis aims to investigate I) which cognitive vulnerabilities or biases are most frequently exploited in a selected range of case studies, and II) the rhetorical and visual narrative framing strategies used to target these vulnerabilities. The primary dataset will be derived from “EUvsDisinfo”, a flagship initiative of the European Union that monitors and debunks disinformation. The research methodology will follow a four-phase process: First, a literature review will establish clear definitions of cognitive vulnerabilities, as well as criteria for identifying them in disinformation contexts. Next, a large sample of misinformation cases from the selected database will be labeled according to the narrative strategies employed, the cognitive vulnerabilities exploited, and the underlying socio-political context. A sentiment analysis will also be used as part of this phase to assess the cognitive effects of these narratives, such as fear, confusion or distrust. After this, the annotated components will be visualized in a network diagram to uncover meaningful relationships between strategies, biases and effects. Lastly, if the scope permits, a machine learning model will be developed to predict likely narrative strategies employed by specific threat actors based on prior patterns and feature analysis. The overall purpose of this thesis is to map the psychological mechanisms behind disinformation to bolster our understanding of how belief systems and perceptions are targeted through our information environments. References [1] A. Sanchez-Acedo, A. Carbonell-Alcocer, M. Gértrudix & J.L. Rubio-Tamayo, “The challenges of media and information literacy in the artificial intelligence ecology: deepfakes and misinformation,” Communication & Society, pp. 223 - 239, 2024. doi: 10.15581/003.37.4.223-239 [2] EUvsDisinfo. "Protests in Novi Sanzhary are a symbol of the Maidan in Ukraine," Disinformation Case Details, 2020. [Online]. Available: https://euvsdisinfo.eu/report/protests-in-novi-sanzhary-are-a-symbol-of-the-maidan-in-ukraine/. [Accessed: May 26, 2025]. [3] EUvsDisinfo. "There is more freedom of speech in Russia than in Europe," Disinformation Case Details, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://euvsdisinfo.eu/report/there-is-more-freedom-of-speech-in-russia-than-in-europe/. [Accessed: May 26, 2025].
Copyright (c) 2025 Caglaguel Karaca https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Ion Channel Degeneracy: Understanding Function-Energy Trade-Offs in CA1 Pyramidal Cells
Introduction In recent years, there has been an advent of interest in the phenomenon of ion channel degeneracy and the explanations for its emergence [1], [2], [3]. Ion channel degeneracy is defined as a functional many-to-one relationship in which distinct combinations of ion channels elicit similar functional or electrophysiological features. Despite the recent progress in the illumination of this phenomenon, there is still a multitude of open questions, i.e., what are the constraints on ion channel degeneracy; is there a guiding principle; are there functional trade-offs? In this thesis, we ask how far ion channel degeneracy is moderated by function-energy trade-offs and show Pareto-optimal behavior. Precisely, we hypothesized that CA1 pyramidal cells express trade-offs between spatial coding (function) and energy efficiency and obey Pareto-optimal principles. Pareto optimality is defined as a trade-off in which it is not possible to improve in one objective without worsening in another. Methodology We applied a stochastic-search strategy on a full-morphological conductance-based CA1 pyramidal cell model [3], which provided us with valid models that fulfill biophysical constraints of intrinsic somatodendritic measurements, spatial coding, and ATP consumption in a biologically plausible parameter range. Thereafter, we investigated ion-channel co-expression as correlation plots between our 22 active and passive model parameters to see if we could observe degeneracy. We used graphical analysis tools to inquire if Pareto fronts guide the trade-off between our valid models, i.e., fit functions for the respective objectives. Furthermore, we checked for spike moderations. Results We found no specific correlations in ion-channel co-expression, indicating degeneracy. Moreover, we observed weak correlations between ATP consumption and spatial coding (MI) in our model population (r=-0.1), which was non-significant (p=0.26). Post-hoc tests revealed no significant correlation between spatial coding and spike counts (r=0.03, p=0.68), but a positive correlation between ATP consumption and spike count (r=0.21, p=0.01). Discussion We didn't observe any significant trade-offs between energy and function in our model population. Moreover, we found a moderate correlation between energy and spike count, which makes intuitive sense if we expect ATP as the energy currency of spike activity. However, our biophysical constraints, in particular, the tuning curve limitations of the place fields, i.e., frequency range and full-width half-maximum size, might have been too strict to allow energy-function trade-offs to appear. In this thesis, we tried to elucidate a basic principle in neuroscience by combining methods from machine learning, computational modelling, and neuroscience to find out about fundamental principles guiding biological function. References [1] E. Marder and J.-M. Goaillard, “Variability, compensation and homeostasis in neuron and network function,” Nat Rev Neurosci, vol. 7, no. 7, pp. 563–574, Jul. 2006. doi: 10.1038/nrn1949. [2] P. Jedlicka, A. D. Bird, and H. Cuntz, “Pareto optimality, economy–effectiveness trade-offs and ion channel degeneracy: improving population modelling for single neurons,” Open Biol., vol. 12, no. 7, p. 220073, Jul. 2022. doi: 10.1098/rsob.220073. [3] A. Roy and R. Narayanan, “Spatial information transfer in hippocampal place cells depends on trial-to-trial variability, symmetry of place-field firing, and biophysical heterogeneities,” Neural Networks, vol. 142, pp. 636–660, Oct. 2021. doi: 10.1016/j.neunet.2021.07.026.
Copyright (c) 2025 Marvin Marz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Foundation Model for Intracranial Recordings: Training & Representation Analysis
Intracranial recordings—principally electrocorticography (ECoG) and stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG)—deliver millisecond-resolved, high-SNR measurements of population-level neural activity directly from the cortical surface. Despite this richness, deep-learning (DL) methods remain under-used because openly licensed datasets are scarce, electrode layouts vary across patients, and brain signals drift over time. These factors hinder cross-study aggregation and make it difficult to train high-capacity networks without overfitting. Still, DL models have been shown to outperform pipelines based on hand-crafted spectral features and shallow classifiers when applied to sufficiently rich biomedical signals, revealing non-linear relationships that conventional approaches often miss [1]. This thesis aims to address this gap by pre-training a foundation model—a task-agnostic network exposed to diverse, unlabeled ECoG and SEEG data so it can be fine-tuned for downstream applications. The dataset used is a closed-source collection from UMC Utrecht, comprising recordings from over 152 participants implanted with research or clinical grids. These include patients with ALS, other forms of paralysis, or those undergoing surgery with research grids. While the full dataset includes potential for 24/7 monitoring, this project will use only task-related segments ranging from a few minutes to several hours for now. Both classic and high-density grids are available; for now, we focus on classic grids only. After preprocessing (notch filtering, re-referencing, and windowing), signals will be fed into a network in an unsupervised manner. The main architecture is based on U-Net, which preserves local detail while integrating broader context through its encoder–decoder structure with skip connections. The model will be trained using a contrastive self-supervised objective to encourage the discovery of stable structure across time windows. Generalisation will be tested by fine-tuning on held-out data not seen during pre-training. Two benchmark tasks—attempted-movement decoding and speech-sound reconstruction—will potentially serve as validation. The network will handle variable-length inputs and apply spatial masking to accommodate differing electrode configurations. Performance will be compared to patient-specific baselines trained on standard features. Finally, we will explore the model’s embeddings using PCA, clustering, and saliency analysis—not to interpret specific patterns, but to examine whether any meaningful structure emerges. This work has limitations. Despite its size, the dataset may still lack the heterogeneity needed for broad generalisation. Furthermore, while the model may uncover consistent patterns, we do not expect to link these directly to cognitive or physiological processes. The goal is to provide a reusable foundation—not full interpretability—on which future research can build. References [1] A. H. Peterson et al., “Generalized neural decoders for transfer learning across patients and recording modalities,” Nature Biomedical Engineering, vol. 5, no. 11, pp. 1229–1238, 2021.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sebastjan Kramar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
The Role of Informal Interaction in Enhancing Interactive Team Cognition
Effective teamwork may be closely linked to informal (i.e. not work-related) exchanges between colleagues. Traditionally, professional interactions were limited to formal communication; and informal interaction was considered unnecessary. However, more recently, it has become clear that informal interaction might be crucial to forming effective professional teams [1]. Team members need to be aware of each other’s implicit assumptions, goals, and course of action. When they interact informally with their colleagues, they learn about their colleagues’ interaction and communication style. That might enable them to cooperate more effectively in a formal setting [2]. This might be due to ‘interactive team cognition’, which means that an individual merges with a team, i.e. they see more agenthood in the team than the individual itself [3]. Surprisingly, the effect of informal exchanges between co-workers has rarely been studied. Most research has focussed on formal exchanges between colleagues, while some report a positive effect of informal exchanges [1]. Focussing on a specific case, this research examines whether there is a positive correlation between informal interaction and interactive team cognition. Furthermore, this is an exploratory study intended to generate hypotheses for further research. A convergent mixed-methods design is employed to correlate the type of informal exchanges with the quality of interactive team cognition. During the merger of three research groups into one research centre at the Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (Austria), the respective employees were surveyed using a questionnaire containing quantitative and qualitative items. By surveying the employees (N = 34) with the questionnaire before the research groups merge and then twice more at three-week intervals, possible changes can be recorded. By indicating in all questionnaires with whom they have had how much informal interaction, it is possible to trace which informal interactions had been previously present and which are new. To better understand what might impact interactive team cognition and what might be a result of informal communication, various factors are examined. These factors include group identity, sense of belonging, and feeling connected to the research group that could explain the mechanisms through which improved collaboration may arise from informal exchanges. This study’s findings may inform future research. Thereby, structures could be developed to enable people to engage in informal dialogue to achieve better work results. This could possibly provide a broader basis for further research into human-centred and innovative work design. References [1] T. Koch and N. Denner, “Informal communication in organizations: work time wasted at the water-cooler or crucial exchange among co-workers?,” Corporate Communications: An International Journal, vol. 27, no. 3, pp. 494–508, Jan. 2022. doi: 10.1108/CCIJ-08-2021-0087. [2] N. Denner, T. Koch, B. Viererbl, and A. Ernst, “Feeling connected and informed through informal communication: a quantitative survey on the perceived functions of informal communication in organizations,” Journal of Communication Management, vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 71–93, Sep. 2024. doi: 10.1108/JCOM-06-2024-0085. [3] N. J. Cooke, J. C. Gorman, C. W. Myers, and J. L. Duran, “Interactive Team Cognition,” Cognitive Science, vol. 37, no. 2, pp. 255–285, 2013. doi: 10.1111/cogs.12009.
Copyright (c) 2025 Thore Schönfeldt https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
2-Phased RMET for Identification of Socially High-Functioning Asperger Syndrome
We introduce a novel cognitive assessment tool designed to improve identification of individuals with Asperger syndrome, focusing on socially high-functioning (SHF) individuals whose traits are subtle and often masked by compensatory mechanisms [1], [2]. Our method targets differences in cognitive processing that emerge under varying cognitive loads and time constraints. The proposed tool is a modified version of the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET), used to assess theory of mind [3]. Our adaptation, the 2-Phased RMET, contrasts implicit and explicit processing by measuring reaction time under two conditions. RMET involves interpreting emotional and mental states from images showing only the eye region of human faces. The procedure includes five steps: Baseline cognitive load measurement using a simple reaction time task. PHASE 1: RMET under a 5-second time limit per item to induce implicit processing. Post-PHASE 1 load measurement. PHASE 2: RMET repeated without time constraints, allowing explicit reasoning. Final load measurement. We hypothesize that neurotypical individuals will show consistent performance and stable reaction times. SHF AS participants are expected to perform poorly in PHASE 1 due to limited time for compensatory strategies, but improve in PHASE 2, with reaction times reflecting higher cognitive effort. This procedure was implemented in C#-based software with integrated load tracking. A small proof-of-concept study (n = 5) supports our hypothesis: SHF AS participants showed lower accuracy in PHASE 1 and greater improvement in PHASE 2 compared to controls. Preliminary results suggest the 2-Phased RMET may reveal processing strategies not evident in conventional testing. While statistical inference is not possible with this sample size, findings support feasibility. Future work will increase sample size and match participants by age and interests to reduce confounds. Practical challenges such as standardizing load measures and ensuring accessibility will also be addressed. By linking performance with cognitive dynamics, the 2-Phased RMET offers a promising path for advancing diagnostic tools in neurodiversity research. References [1] B. Callenmark, L. Kjellin, L. Rönnqvist and S. Bölte, “Explicit versus implicit social cognition testing in autism spectrum disorder”, Autism, vol. 18, no. 6, pp. 684-693, 2014. [2] J. Cook, L. Hull, L. Crane and W. Mandy, “Camouflaging in autism: A systematic review”, Clinical Psychology Review, vol. 89, Nov., 2021. [3] A. Dyalee, “Theory of mind: Varying substrates of social cognition”, In Proc. Cognition and Artificial Life '22, 2024, pp. 45-48.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alexandra Dyalee https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Enhancing Cognitive and Attentional Skills Through Coordinated Bilateral Activities
Introduction Executive functions—including working memory, inhibitory control, planning, and visuospatial working memory—can be enhanced through targeted physical exercises known as Coordinated Bilateral Physical Activities (CBPA). These exercises were specifically designed to facilitate the exchange of information between the cerebellum and the prefrontal cortex [1]. CBPA routines involve sequences of physical movements that must be memorised and executed in a precise order. During these exercises, individuals must attend to the spatial positioning of their body parts while alternately activating the right and left limbs. As the training progresses, the movement sequences become increasingly complex, with selected steps intentionally omitted [2]. This rising difficulty level places substantial cognitive demands on inhibitory control, working memory, and attention, thereby actively engaging and strengthening these executive functions. Methodology A literature review was conducted on empirical studies examining the impact of performing Coordinated Bilateral Physical Activities (CBPA) on school-aged children and pupils with moderate intellectual disabilities. Information was also obtained from the Avare Centre, which specialises in counselling and prevention for children and adults, addressing learning and behavioural disorders, concentration issues, and personal development. Results Results show statistically significant improvements in cognitive functions in the areas of nonverbal visual-spatial processing (p = 0.0303), working memory (p = 0.0231), and verbal fluid reasoning (p = 0.0164) in a group of 27 pupils between 8-18 years with moderate intellectual disabilities [2]. Findings suggest that just six minutes of CBPA per day over four weeks can effectively enhance key aspects of attention and concentration in school-aged children at elementary school. Particularly significant increases were observed in processing speed (p = 0.01), focused attention (p = 0.002), and attention span (p = 0.001), although no significant gains in accuracy were reported [1]. Participants demonstrated an improved ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously with greater ease and showed an enhanced capacity to connect concepts more rapidly. Additionally, improvements in balance and motor skills were also observed [3]. Conclusion CBPA shows potential as a supportive method for improving cognitive and attentional functions, particularly in educational and rehabilitation settings. While promising results have been observed in children with intellectual disabilities, initial evidence also suggests there might be a potential benefit for neurotypical individuals. References [1] H. Buchele Harris, K. S. Cortina, T. Templin, N. Colabianchi, and W. Chen, “Impact of Coordinated-Bilateral Physical Activities on Attention and Concentration in School-Aged Children,” Biomed Res. Int., vol. 2018, 2018. doi: 10.1155/2018/2539748. [2] M. Koper, M. Lewandowska, and M. Rękosiewicz, “The effect of the Bilateral Integration exercise program on the cognitive functioning of pupils with moderate intellectual disabilities,” Front. Psychiatry, vol. 15, no. October, pp. 1–10, 2024. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1409061. [3] Centrum Avare, “Bilaterálna integrácia,” 2025. [Online]. Available: https://bilateralnaintegracia.sk/bilateralna-integracia/. [Accessed: May 20, 2025].
Copyright (c) 2025 Miriam Surňáková https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Breaking the Grid: The Use of Verbal Strategies in a Working Memory Task
Inner speech, the silent mental articulation of language, plays a critical role in cognition, from planning actions to regulating emotions. Current models [1] propose that inner speech exists on a continuum of complexity, ranging from abstract, wordless representations to fully articulated sentences. The LISP (Levels of Inner Speech) project at the Babelfisch Psycholinguistic Lab in Vienna aims to systematically compare the neural dynamics of three distinct levels —semantic, auditory-phonological, and motor articulatory [2]— by combining a working memory paradigm with electroencephalography (EEG) and using the same exact stimulus material for all three conditions and a visual control task. In each trial, four everyday objects are presented in a 6×6 grid. Participants are instructed to either remember the objects (to induce inner speech) or recall their positions (for the visual control task). However, debriefing data from the first study suggests that a significant number of participants relied on verbal strategies during the visual condition (e.g., by mentally labelling grid coordinates). The present study tests whether removing visible grid lines from the stimulus material suppresses verbal strategies for the visual task. Participants are shown the four objects either inside a grid (A) or without the grid (B) for four seconds followed by a seven-second maintenance phase. Then, four crosses are shown inside a grid (A) or without the grid (B) and participants judge via button press whether the positions are correct. Conditions A and B are presented within-subject in separate blocks of 40 trials each. After the experiment, participants are asked to report on their strategies for both versions of the task via an open text box as part of a short survey. The study will be conducted online, aiming to recruit 50 adult native speakers of German. The open-ended responses will be analyzed using a topic modeling algorithm to identify dominant strategy clusters. We hypothesize that, by removing the grid lines from the stimulus material, participants will not be able to use verbal strategies like counting coordinates to solve the task and instead rely on visual strategies. The results will determine whether grid-free stimuli effectively suppress verbal encoding, thereby guiding the selection of paradigms for the subsequent EEG studies and possibly allowing the LISP project to move forward with an improved control condition. Additionally, the present study will serve as a trial run for employing quantitative content modeling on future debriefing data, thereby avoiding subjectivity introduced through the examiner. References [1] R. Grandchamp et al., “The CONDIALINT model: condensation, dialogality, and intentionality dimensions of inner speech within a hierarchical predictive control framework,” Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 10, Sep. 2019. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02019. [2] A. Rodriguez-Fornells, P. León-Cabrera, A. Gabarros, and J. Sierpowska, “Inner speech brain mapping. Is it possible to map what we cannot observe?,” in Springer eBooks, 2021, pp. 381–409. doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-75071-8_23.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nina Buchgraber, Viktoria Groiß https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
The Influence of Private Christian Prayer Types on Mental and Physical Health
The relationship of religiosity/spirituality to health is a well-established area. This theoretical paper explores how prayer types may influence physical health via mental health and summarizes relevant literature. In the Christian religion, private prayer refers to private, personal communication with the God that Christians believe in. It is often distinguished into five types: petitionary prayer (asking God to intervene), meditative prayer (reflection on being present with God), colloquial prayer (conversational dialogue with God), ritualistic prayer (reciting established prayers), and intercessory prayer (praying on behalf of others) [1]. Most studied literature spans multiple denominations. A literature review suggests that prayer is generally linked to improved psychological well-being [2]. However, the effects depend on the prayer type. Petitionary prayer often shows no benefit or negative associations with mental health, such as increased anxiety. In contrast, colloquial, meditative, and ritualistic prayers consistently correlate with positive mental health, happiness, positive affect, and decreased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression [1]. Lastly, a meta-analysis claims that results of studies on intercessory prayer are often inconsistent, suggesting no discernible effect on the health of the prayer-for [2]. Different prayer types appear to engage distinct processes. Colloquial and meditative prayer involve sharing personal struggles with God, which can function like therapeutic disclosure. Prayer can also induce relaxation and a “mindfulness” effect, with slower breathing, lower heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol reactivity to stress [3]. Belief in divine oversight can reframe adversity as purposeful, helping gain control over events. Further, prayer activates brain networks involved in social cognition, suggesting prayer can serve as a medium for a supportive attachment with God, which provides perceived companionship. Additionally, prayer can foster "positive" emotions like hope, peace, love, and joy, improving overall well-being. Mental health has far-reaching effects on physical health through multiple pathways—hormonal, neurological, immunological, and behavioral. For example, reduced anxiety and depression dampen HPA-axis arousal and inflammation, exhibiting smaller cortical cortisol spikes under stress, which helps protect cardiovascular and immune health [3]. Hence, prayer could indirectly reduce inflammation and cardiovascular strain. Future studies could clarify unique mediators that differentiate prayer and mindfulness. Few studies integrate psychoneuroendocrine measures to map the full chain from prayer to mind and body. The role of intercessory prayer on the health of the person praying could be more studied. Future research should employ precise conceptual models, measure specific prayer types, utilize controlled or longitudinal designs [2], and investigate effects on both mental health (e.g., anxiety, depression) and physiology (e.g., cortisol, inflammation, cardiovascular markers). References [1] M. Jantos and H. Kiat, “Prayer as medicine: how much have we learned?” Medical Journal of Australia, vol. 186, no. S10, pp. S51-S53, 2007. [2] K. S. Masters and G. I. Spielmans, “Prayer and health: review, meta-analysis, and research agenda,” Journal of behavioral medicine, vol. 30, no. 4, pp. 329-338, 2007. [3] J. Tartaro, L. J. Luecken, and H. E. Gunn, “Exploring heart and soul: effects of religiosity/spirituality and gender on blood pressure and cortisol stress responses,” Journal of health psychology, vol. 10, no. 6, pp. 753-766, 2005.
Copyright (c) 2025 Matej Bělousov https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Myopia is a refractive error of the eye in which light focuses in front of the retina, causing a blurry image when a patient is looking into the distance. It is a growing public health concern due to its rising global prevalence and potential to cause severe ocular complications. High myopia is defined as myopia greater than -5 diopters. It is accompanied by axial elongation and fundus changes. Patients are at high risk of developing legal blindness resulting from maculopathy or retinal detachment [1]. Myopia is primarily treated with corrective lenses and, possibly, with invasive techniques such as surgical correction with LASIK, which are expensive and may cause side effects. Another option for treatment is non-invasive vision training that aims to stop the progression of myopia and reduce its optical power. One example is a method of physiotherapy targeting different extraocular muscles [1]. Another example is three-dimensional visual training, which includes looking at stereoscopic and moving visual icons. There is evidence of this method improving connectivity of brain networks [2]. The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of visual training on patients with high myopia. We want to explore whether this method helps with myopia progression and reduction, and whether it can induce measurable brain changes. Since there are many visual training methods, the first step will be to determine the most suitable option. Participants will include highly myopic patients who have no other eye diseases. They will first undergo an eye assessment, including measurements of refractive error and axial length. They will also fill out a questionnaire about their habits related to eye health, and their brain networks will be imaged. Participants will then engage in several weeks of visual training. After this training period, the initial assessment will be repeated. The effect of visual training on the eyes will be determined by comparing the data collected before and after the treatment. Expected results include slowed myopia progression and a minimal reduction in refractive error. We also expect brain changes to be observable with imaging, possibly exhibiting better connectivity in regions associated with visual processing. This research addresses the growing problem of myopia by integrating different types of measures to explore the potential of non-invasive therapies in managing high myopia. References [1] H. Shareef, M. Sameen, and S. Jafaar, “The impact of eye exercises on high myopia and visual acuity in patients aged (15-30) years,” Journal of Physics: Conference Series, vol. 1660, no. 1, p. 012108, 2020. doi: 10.1088/1742-6596/1660/1/012108. [2] C. Gao et al., “Adaptive Changes in Neurovascular Properties With Binocular Accommodation Functions in Myopic Participants by 3D Visual Training: An EEG and fNIRS Study”, IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, vol. 32, 2024. doi: 10.1109/TNSRE.2024.3434492.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mimi Klinec https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Modeling of Early Development of Cooperation in a Robotic Simulator
The ability to cooperate is what put humans on top of the animal kingdom. Even before developing the ability to speak, infants show behaviours such as joint attention, turn taking and helping, which are the first steps to form complex social interactions. By understanding how these abilities develop has been a key concern of cognitive sciences as well as robotics and artificial intelligence. Early cooperation between caregivers and infants emerges well before language of advanced theory-of-mind abilities. Such collaborative behaviour (turn taking, response contingency and intention recognition) instead rests on simple sequence learning and predictive processes mechanisms [1], [2]. In this thesis we will test the hypothesis that a robotic system can acquire and deploy these skills to engage in joint tasks, only by observing human demonstrations. Our work will adopt a grounded, sensorimotor approach inspired by infant learning. In a simulated block world, a robot watches a human stack coloured blocks and builds internal models of the demonstrated sequences. These models serve two purposes, recognition and prediction and collaborative completion. The robot is expected not only to learn these sequences but to act collaboratively by continuing a task initiated by a human partner. Our modular cognitive architecture integrates deep-learning visual models for object and action recognition, mirror neuron inspired mappings that translate perceived human actions into the robot's motor commands, reinforcement learning visuomotor policies for precise block manipulation and RNN-based sequence encoders that underpin predictive and completion capabilities. The robot first learns to recognise objects and actions in its environment. It then observes repeated demonstrations of tasks and is trained to predict subsequent steps. Through this, it develops internal representations that enable it to detect incomplete sequences. In cooperative scenarios, the human begins a task and pauses, and the robot must infer the intended outcome and complete the task appropriately. We hope the results will demonstrate that the robot can learn to reproduce observed action sequences and can take over incomplete tasks initiated by a human. Importantly, response-contingent behaviour—where the robot acts when the human pauses—emerges from predictive sequence learning alone. These findings will support the central hypothesis: early cooperative behaviours can arise from general-purpose cognitive mechanisms without requiring explicit mental state modelling. This research contributes both to our understanding of early social cognition and to the design of more intuitive human-robot interaction systems. It suggests that relatively simple learning architectures, grounded in perception and action, are suﬃcient for enabling basic collaboration. Future work will expand the system’s cognitive capabilities and validate the model in a physical setting. References [1] C. Heyes, "Who knows? Metacognitive social learning strategies," Trends in Cognitive Sciences, vol. 20, no. 3, pp. 204–213, 2006. doi: 10.1016/j.tics.2015.12.007. [2] M. Gratier, E. Devouche, B. Guellai, R. Infanti, E. Yilmaz, and E. Parlato-Oliveira, "Early development of turn-taking in vocal interaction between mothers and infants," Front. Psychol., vol. 6, 1167, 2015. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01167.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dario Lamaj https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Competing Loyalties: How Beliefs Shape Voting When Identities Clash
Introduction Voting is often portrayed as a rational act based on policy preferences, where individuals support candidates whose platforms align with their economic self-interest. However, real-world behavior often does not correspond to this assumption. People routinely vote against their material interests, for instance, migrants supporting anti-immigration parties [1] or low-income individuals opposing redistribution policies that would benefit them [2]. These contradictions point to a more complex understanding of voter behavior, where social identities such as ethnicity, class, and ideology play a central role. In contemporary politics, identity often outweighs policy. Even as voters maintain overlapping views on specific policy issues, political identities have become increasingly polarized. Voter loyalty, ideological rigidity, and affective partisanship are rising, indicating that identity can, in many cases, override issue-based considerations at the ballot box. Theoretical Background Recent cognitive models of political behavior question the assumption that identity and policy preferences are evaluated independently. Instead, they propose that they compete for limited cognitive resources, with the more salient dimension disproportionately influencing decision-making. Jenke and Huettel propose that when identity cues are made salient, policy considerations are cognitively suppressed, and vice versa [3]. This tradeoff is particularly pronounced in individuals with cross-cutting identities, for example, highly skilled members of disadvantaged groups, who must navigate internal tensions between solidarity with their identity group and the pursuit of economic self-interest. Methodology This study investigates how voters navigate such tradeoffs by experimentally examining the intersection of identity and skill level in shaping redistribution preferences. A 2x2 between-subjects design will be used to manipulate participants’ group status (privileged vs. disadvantaged) and skill level (high vs. low). The aim is to explore how these factors influence voting decisions and support for redistribution. Participants will also complete belief elicitation tasks to assess their expectations about how proposed policies will affect both themselves and others. To test causality, the study incorporates priming manipulations: in some conditions, participants will be primed to focus on their social identity, while in others, they will be primed to focus on policy outcomes. Relevance This study contributes to the growing body of literature that views political choice as a cognitively negotiated process between competing motivations. By combining identity theory, behavioral economics, and cognitive psychology, the research aims to shed light on how structural group memberships interact with individual-level cognition to influence political behavior. The findings may inform the design of political messaging and outreach strategies, particularly in polarized environments where identity-based appeals are prominent. They also carry implications for understanding the limitations of purely rational-choice-based models of voter behavior, especially among individuals who do not fall neatly into one group category. References [1] J. Jackson, Immigrants and Anti-Immigration Parties in Europe. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2011. [2] A. W. Cappelen, E. Ø. Sørensen, and B. Tungodden, “Distributive Justice and the Welfare State,” Science, vol. 375, no. 6585, pp. 1397–1401, Mar. 2022. [3] L. Jenke and S. A. Huettel, “Issues or Identity? Cognitive Foundations of Voter Choice,” Trends in Cognitive Sciences, vol. 20, no. 11, pp. 794–804, Nov. 2016.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lucija Karnelutti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Designing for Cognition: A Framework for Accessible Communication Technology
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, digital tools that help people with speech difficulties communicate through symbols, text, or voice output, show high abandonment rates, leading users to reject devices that could expand their communication capabilities [1]. AAC devices typically require users to maintain spatial-organizational mental models of menu systems in working memory while processing semantic content, selecting appropriate vocabulary, and managing social interaction demands. Cognitive load theory explains how excessive extraneous load can interfere with intrinsic cognitive processes [2]. AAC technology requires users to develop navigation expertise before they can communicate basic needs. This cognitive load challenge during communication highlights gaps in how we understand accessibility. Current accessibility frameworks would benefit from theoretical grounding in cognitive science. Existing approaches like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines focus on technology-specific accommodations for predefined user groups [3]. These frameworks treat cognitive differences as static deficits requiring workarounds, rather than understanding the dynamic cognitive processes involved in human-technology interaction. The result is technology that may meet compliance guidelines while remaining cognitively inaccessible to the people who need it most. This research proposes a cognitive accessibility framework grounded in cognitive load theory that addresses this fundamental gap. Rather than asking "how do we accommodate cognitive deficits," the framework asks "how do we design technology that supports the cognitive processes essential for communication?" The approach recognizes that cognitive accessibility needs vary based on available cognitive resources, which fluctuate due to stress, fatigue, context, and individual differences. Communication technologies should minimize extraneous cognitive load while supporting the intrinsic cognitive processes that enable meaningful interaction. The framework applies cognitive load theory's three components to communication technology design: intrinsic load (the cognitive demands of communication itself), extraneous load (unnecessary interface complexity), and germane load (meaningful cognitive processing that supports communication goals). This provides structured principles for analyzing how design decisions affect cognitive accessibility during communication tasks. Currently, I am developing theoretical foundations for these cognitive accessibility principles through analysis of AAC challenges and communication demands. Initial work reveals systematic patterns in how current assistive technologies create cognitive load conflicts, suggesting that theory-driven design approaches could dramatically improve communication outcomes for users with diverse cognitive needs. This framework has broader implications beyond assistive technology. The same cognitive load principles that explain AAC challenges may help understand why mainstream technology often overwhelms users during high-stakes interactions – calling emergency services, navigating healthcare systems, or managing financial transactions under stress. By grounding accessibility in cognitive science rather than deficit models, this work provides theoretical foundations for designing communication technologies that work with human cognition rather than against it. References [1] J. M. Johnson, E. Inglebret, C. Jones, and J. Ray, “Perspectives of speech language pathologists regarding success versus abandonment of AAC,” Augmentative and Alternative Communication, vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 85-99, 2006. [2] J. Sweller, J. van Merriënboer and F. Paas, “Cognitive architecture and instructional design: 20 years later,” Educational Psychology Review, vol. 31, no. 2, pp. 261-292, 2019. [3] W3C, "Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1," 2021. [Online]. Available: https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG21/quickref/.
Copyright (c) 2025 Celina Mueller https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Predicting the Effectiveness of Music Therapy in Autism Using Resting-State fMRI
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental condition, in which symptomatic manifestations are manifolded and characterized by core impairments in social interaction, communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviours and interests. Music therapy (MT) is among the numerous therapeutic tools that are being used to address the core symptoms and mental health needs of individuals diagnosed with ASD. Currently, no reliable biomarkers exist to identify individuals with ASD or guide treatment selection. Research Question Resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) is altered in the brain of individuals with ASD. Recent evidence has revealed different patterns of connectivity, with combined instances of both over- and under-connectivity [1]. Consequently, rsFC is currently being discussed to aid categorization of individuals with ASD and serve as a possible diagnostic tool [1]. Furthermore, results of randomized controlled trial (RCT) clinical studies such as [2] demonstrated that 8-12 weeks of MT is indeed efficacious in enhancing social communication and altering functional brain connectivity. The primary aim of Music4Autism (M4A) [3] is to replicate the findings of [2] and to further explore the hypothesis that changes in predictive abilities mediate changes in mental health outcomes and rsFC after MT. However, the objective of this research project is to investigate the inverse conclusion by using changes in rsFC not as an indication of treatment success, but their baseline measurements as a predictor that anticipates the effectiveness of MT. Methodology The assessment will be conducted utilizing psychometric measures and fMRI-neuroimaging data of 80 ASD diagnosed children aged 6-12 [3]. The rsFC analysis encompasses pre-MT baseline measurements and following [2] focusses on increased coupling between auditory and both striatal and motor regions, as well as decreased coupling between auditory and visual regions. To examine the relation between rsFC and MT effectiveness, connectivity strength scores for each participant will be used in a linear regression model to evaluate correlations. Among others, the effectiveness of MT will be assessed through symptom change on the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2), in which parents rate items concerning the social functioning of their children. Impact This study aims to identify a neurobiological predictor (biomarker) of MT treatment success. It does so by examining connectivity of large-scale brain networks and its utilization to predict which individuals will efficiently benefit from MT. Thereby it supports further investigations of neurobiologically motivated models of music interventions in autism and explores the neurophysiological underpinnings of the disorder. References [1] J. V. Hull, L. B. Dokovna, Z. J. Jacokes, C. M. Torgerson, A. Irimia, and J. D. Van Horn, “Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Review”, Front. Psychiatry, vol. 7, p. 205, Jan. 2017. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00205. [2] M. Sharda et al., “Music improves social communication and auditory–motor connectivity in children with autism”, Transl Psychiatry, vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 1–13, Oct. 2018, doi: 10.1038/s41398-018-0287-3. [3] M. Ruiz et al., “Music for autism: a protocol for an international randomized crossover trial on music therapy for children with autism”, Front. Psychiatry, vol. 14, p. 1256771, Oct. 2023. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1256771.
Copyright (c) 2025 Niels Bennett Lilienthal, Asena Umay Kocan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Neural Correlates of Cross‑Linguistic Syntactic Variation in Multilinguals
Introduction Syntax is a core property of human language: every known language is governed by structural rules that enable the construction of meaningful sentences. The cortical model of syntax by Matchin and Hickok [1] provides a framework for studying how the brain supports syntactic processing. The model distinguishes between two dimensions of syntax: morpho-syntactic linearisation and hierarchical structuring. Morpho-syntactic linearisation refers to how words are arranged in a sentence according to grammatical rules, such as word order and the addition of grammatical markers (e.g., the suffix -ed, as in walk → walked). This process is associated with the posterior inferior frontal gyrus (pIFG). In contrast, hierarchical structuring, i.e., the construction of syntactic trees — tree-like, nested representations that reflect syntactic relationships, is supported by the posterior middle temporal gyrus (pMTG). Although this model captures key aspects of syntactic processing and its neural basis, it does not address cross-linguistic variation. Moreover, few studies have examined how bilingual and multilingual speakers process syntax, particularly when significant differences exist across the languages they speak. To address these gaps, we ask the following research question: How do syntactic differences between languages relate to their neural processing in multilinguals? Methods For this study, we will use fMRI data from the NEBULA101 project [2] collected using a quasi-naturalistic listening task — the Alice language localiser [3]. Each of 101 participants in the study listened to both intact and acoustically degraded excerpts from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” and its translations in two self-selected languages (L1 and L2), with 19 unique L1–L2 pairs spanning 13 languages. Each language pair will receive a syntactic similarity score based on two components: (1) text-derived syntactic metrics (e.g., mean dependency distance between syntactically related words) computed from the localiser stimuli; and (2) typological grammatical features (e.g., presence of non-adjacent relative clauses) drawn from the Grambank database. We will compute individual-level contrasts in brain activity for L2 > L1 processing and use mixed-effects linear models to predict these activation differences. We hypothesise that including the syntactic similarity score as a regressor will explain more variance than models with only sociodemographic covariates. Since our syntactic similarity score mostly reflects differences in morpho-syntactic linearisation across languages, we expect stronger effects in the pIFG than in the pMTG, consistent with the cortical model of syntax [1]. References [1] W. Matchin and G. Hickok, “The Cortical Organization of Syntax,” Cerebral Cortex, vol. 30, no. 3, pp. 1481–1498, Oct. 2019. doi: 10.1093/cercor/bhz180. [2] A. Rampinini, I. Balboni, O. Kepinska, R. Berthele, and Narly Golestani, “NEBULA101: an open dataset for the study of language aptitude in behaviour, brain structure and function,” Scientific Data, vol. 12, no. 1, Jan. 2025. doi: 10.1038/s41597-024-04357-y. [3] S. Malik-Moraleda et al., “An investigation across 45 languages and 12 language families reveals a universal language network,” Nature Neuroscience, vol. 25, no. 8, pp. 1014–1019, Jul. 2022. doi: 10.1038/s41593-022-01114-5.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nikita Zmanovsky, Narly Golestani, Olga Kepinska https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Exploring the Role of Gen-AI Tools and Smart Toys in Early Childhood Education
Early childhood represents an important period for the development of a healthy brain, during which the foundations of sensory and perceptual systems critical to language, social, and emotional systems are formed. Research suggests that young children learn best through play; a natural mode of exploration and creativity that serves as a foundation for learning, problem-solving, and communication [1]. Smart toys and Gen-AI tools are increasingly included in early childhood education (ECE) settings across both formal and informal environments [2]. These tools, enhanced with technological elements such as sensors, micro-controllers, or interactive software, offer opportunities for learning and development, creative expression, exploration, and social interaction [2]. These tools and toys cannot serve as a replacement for human relationships and learning opportunities, but they can complement them when used thoughtfully. Some studies indicate improved cognitive outcomes, increased engagement, and the promotion of collaborative and inquiry-based learning, while others have noted potential risks of using such tools in ECE settings [3]. Children under the age of 5 cannot understand the implications of using such toys - including their data being collected or how much trust is appropriate to place in such devices [3]. As the current state of science provides mixed results in this regard, the concrete role and impact of such tools for children and their caretakers requires further investigation. Therefore, this study seeks to answer the research question: How do Gen-AI tools and smart toys contribute to cognitive and social development through play in early childhood? This project is a small-scale exploratory qualitative study investigating how Gen-AI tools and smart toys contribute to cognitive and social development through play in early childhood (4 to 8 years of age). Using an interdisciplinary framework that draws from cognitive science, education, and human–technology interaction, the study will employ qualitative, design-based, and participatory methods. Planned observations and interviews with children and their caretakers (n=5), and analysis of child–technology interactions will provide insight into how these technologies can support—or potentially hinder—child development. At the time of writing, this project is still in its early stages and specific selection criteria for participants, as well as data collection and analysis methods, are to be determined. Given the small sample size and early stage of the project, this study serves as a pilot to generate preliminary insights, quantifiable guidelines, and hypotheses to inform future research. Limitations regarding sample size and evolving methodology are acknowledged, and follow-up studies to further validate and expand upon these findings are planned. References [1] G. R. Severino, “The Role of Play in Children’s Development,” The Asian Journal of Education and Human Development (AJEHD), vol. 5, 2024. doi: 10.69566/ajehd.v5i1.100. [2] H. Vartiainen, M. Tedre, and T. Valtonen, “Learning machine learning with very young children: Who is teaching whom?,” Int. J. Child Comput. Interact., vol. 25, p. 100182, 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcci.2020.100182. [3] S. Kewalramani, G. Kidman, and I. Palaiologou, “Using artificial intelligence (AI)-interfaced robotic toys in early childhood settings: A case for children’s inquiry literacy,” European Early Childhood Education Research Journal, vol. 29, 2021. doi: 10.1080/1350293X.2021.1968458.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aleksandar Valland, Katharina Roetzer https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
The Impact of Hungarian Barn Dance Intervention on Executive Functions in Children
Executive functions are essential for adaptive daily functioning and are categorized into three core components: updating, shifting, and inhibition [1]. Inhibition involves suppressing irrelevant stimuli in favor of the focused goal; shifting refers to mental flexibility, and updating relates to working memory. Music and rhythm training have been found to benefit the development of executive functions, especially during childhood, a sensitive period for training effects [2]. The aim of the study was to investigate the beneficial effects of music and rhythm training in a culturally embedded, rhythm-based movement intervention: the Hungarian Barn Dance method. The Hungarian Barn Dance is a cultural event featuring live music, Hungarian folk dance, circle dances, rhythm games, music creation, singing, and folk games. We were specifically interested in whether dance training can enhance executive functions in 8–11-year-old children. We hypothesized that participants in a four-month program would show greater improvement in inhibition, shifting, and updating than those in an active control group. The Hungarian Barn Dance method is appropriate for young children, and it builds from basic skills to creating and improvising dance [3]. A pretest-posttest design with an active control group was used. To guarantee the similarity of the groups, the experiment was conducted in the same school on two classes of the same grade. Executive functions were assessed with three tasks: Numerical Stroop (inhibition), Counting Span (updating), and Verbal Fluency (shifting). The Verbal Fluency task included three subtasks: phonetic and semantic fluency and a switching component, which required alternating between two semantic categories. The pre-test measures were followed by four months of intervention or active control, and immediately after, the post assessment. Without the outliers, the experimental group consisted of 13 girls and 17 boys (mean age = 8.98), and the control group included 14 girls and 15 boys (mean age = 8.92). Contrary to our expectations, most executive function measures showed no significant differences between the training and control groups. However, there was a significant difference between groups in the switching component of verbal fluency: the training group showed a better performance after the training, while the control group demonstrated no change. We theorize that this effect can be a result of the improvisation and rhythmic tasks during the intervention. In the future, it would be beneficial to see how the Hungarian Barn Dance intervention influences the development of atypically developing children, further clarifying the effect of rhythm based movement interventions in children. References [1] A. Miyake, N. P. Friedman, M. J. Emerson, A. H. Witzki, A. Howerter, and T. D. Wager, “The Unity and Diversity of Executive Functions and Their Contributions to Complex 'Frontal Lobe' Tasks: A Latent Variable Analysis,” Cognitive Psychology, vol. 41, no. 1, pp. 49–100, 2000 [2] A. C. Jaschke, H. Honing, and E. J. A. Scherder, “Longitudinal Analysis of Music Education on Executive Functions in Primary School Children,” Frontiers in Neuroscience, vol. 12, no. 103, Feb. 2018. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00103. [3] I. Sándor and B. Ónodi, “Táncház-módszer a tanórai néptánc oktatásban,” EBSCOhost, Jan. 1, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://doi.org/10.46819/TN.4.1.83-91.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jázmin Fruzsina Mikó, Ferenc Honbolygó https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Obsessive-Compulsive Experience and Phenomenological Verticality: A Mad Studies Approach
A new epistemological approach considers the nature of mental disorders to be primarily constituted by the patient 's anomalies of experience, expression, and existence that typically involve suffering and dysfunction. Models integrating phenomenology explore the particular relationship of OCD patients with their world, and recognize in OCD a characteristic personological configuration (obsessive ‘organization of personal meaning’) that is heightened in OCD patients. They experience the world emotionally as a sterile set of rules, and this experience determines their suffering [1]. One’s life-world is the manifold forms of a person’s experience, and manifests concretely to a person as immediate evidence. Lifeworld analysis is a hermeneutic method that focuses on space, time, body, self, emotions, others, and values [2]. It allows for examining psychopathological symptoms as the result of a crisis in one’s dialogue with alterity, or of some difficulty in partaking in it. Anthony Steinbock developed a phenomenological-philosophical anthropology where he traces the meaning of what it is to be a person to what he calls the heart, in which the generativity of personhood is revealed through moral emotions (loving) [3]. He describes loving as a vertical mode of givenness, meaning it has its own forms of evidence and deception. The insight that phenomenologically, in our experiences, something can take hold of us in an absolute manner, allows his framework to see obsessions as forms of idolatry. Seeing them as spiritual disorders; disorders of the heart, he puts emphasis on a lack of verticality which causes a disharmony of one’s participation as person in relations with the Other. Since absolute experiences are vertical, they should be treated in their own language, not as (horizontal) epistemic objects or through reasoning. This thesis investigates how Steinbock's phenomenological framework of verticality and idolatry can serve to reinterpret Obsessive-Compulsive Experience (OCE) in the context of Mad Studies (MS). I coin the term OCE and aim to provide a start to its description and understanding. By including Mad people’s voices in constructing OCE through their lived experience it can potentially inform better treatment. Firstly, Steinbock’s framework will be described in order to examine how it can serve to reinterpret and potentially treat OCE while existing approaches and their limitations are discussed. Secondly, I will use life-world analysis to examine OCE line with MS (focusing on the recent empirical turn in phenomenology where the interpersonal, performative, spiritual, and stigmatisation themes appear salient). Finally, I will synthesize those findings with Steinbock’s framework and provide further recommendations. References [1] F. Demaria, M. Pontillo, D. Bellantoni, C. Di Vincenzo, and S. Vicario, "Phenomenological considerations of the world of the obsessive patient," Journal of Clinical Medicine, vol. 12, no.13, p. 4193, 2023. doi: 10.3390/jcm12134193. [2] G. Stanghellini, "The PHD method for psychotherapy: Integrating phenomenology, hermeneutics, and Psychodynamics," Psychopathology, vol. 52, no. 2, pp. 75–84, 2019. doi: 10.1159/000500272. [3] A. J. Steinbock, Knowing by heart: Loving as participation and critique. Evanston, IL: Northwestern University Press, 2021.
Copyright (c) 2025 Louise Struwe, Jure Bon, Aleš Oblak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0
Disentangling Linguistic and Cultural Biases in Large Language Models: A Comparative Study
Introduction Large Language Models (LLMs) are rapidly becoming ubiquitous tools for communication, research, and decision-making across disciplines and industries. However, they inherit systematic biases from their training data, raising critical concerns about their fairness and representation. LLMs are often perceived as neutral tools, but training on large, predominantly Western datasets embeds cultural norms and ideological assumptions. This can reinforce dominant worldviews while marginalizing non-Western perspectives, shaping how models portray social roles and global narratives. This study investigates two interrelated yet analytically distinct types of bias in LLMs: linguistic bias, embedded in the structure of language and its representation within the model's architecture, and cultural bias, which emerges through normative assumptions elicited during model prompting. By distinguishing between these forms, we aim to contribute to the development of targeted strategies for bias mitigation, model auditing, and model transparency. Theoretical Framework Linguistic bias refers to systematic patterns that arise from word co-occurrence, syntactic structures, and embedding-level associations in training corpora. This can result in underrepresentation or mischaracterization of dialects and non-standard linguistic forms, as well as reflect societal stereotypes [1]. Cultural bias, by contrast, is reflected in prompt-induced behaviour that draws on specific cultural scripts, stereotypes, or political values. It is more dynamic and sensitive to framing, often reinforcing hegemonic worldviews [2]. We hypothesise that LLMs encode these two forms of bias at different levels of their architecture. In our exploratory design, a language condition is intended to reflect linguistic bias, while a roleplay condition aims to surface cultural bias through interpretive and value-laden tests. By comparing the outputs of these two branches across the same tasks, we aim to better understand and disentangle how each bias manifests in model behaviour. Methodology We will conduct a comparative analysis of two LLMs—GPT-4 and Gemini—across two experimental branches. We either prompt the models to roleplay various cultural identities (e.g., "You are German, but please respond in English") or to respond in different languages (e.g., "Bitte antworte auf Deutsch"). Our target languages are English, Hindi, German, Italian, and Hungarian. Following the initial prompt, we apply a Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), and two quantitative measures: the Triandis’ Individualism–Collectivism Scale and the Cultural Tightness–Looseness Scale. TAT responses will be scored using the Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale–Global Rating Method (SCORS-G). To explore how model creativity impacts bias expression, each condition will be tested across three temperature levels. Output text will be analysed using NLP classifiers, sentiment analysis, and stance detection, with statistical tests (e.g., t-tests, ANOVA, effect size measures) applied to compare results. The testing framework will be implemented in Python using API calls. As of the time of submission, data collection and testing has not yet commenced. References [1] E. Fleisig, G. Smith, M. Bossi, I. Rustagi, X. Yin, and D. Klein, “Linguistic Bias in ChatGPT: Language Models Reinforce Dialect Discrimination,” arXiv, 2024. doi: 10.48550/arXiv.2406.08818. [2] A. Birhane, S. Prabhu, and E. Kahembwe, “The Values Encoded in Machine Learning Research,” in Proc. ACM Conf. on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency (FAccT), 2021.
Copyright (c) 2025 Philip Nordt https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0