Thanks to modern technology, research designs with "big data" ? large volumes of measurements over time ? become more and more abundant. For such data, classical statistical techniques often are inadequate or, at best, suboptimal. The aim of this project is to develop novel statistical techniques for big data with a longitudinal compartment; thus measuring changes over time. These novel techniques will accurately describe the complicated underlying longitudinal patterns. The techniques will be applied to one of the most fundamental challenges of our time: that of influencing energy consumption. Software will be developed allowing these models to be used by applied researchers.

The chance that people with psychoses become victim of a violent crimes is three times higher than in the general population. This is partly due to the clinical syndrome that is associated with misperception of social cues, self-stigma, decreased self-esteem and a lack of assertiveness. Earlier experiences with violence also increase the risk of victimization. To tackle this downward spiral, an assertiveness training in which psychomotor interventions are combined with kickboxing techniques was developed. The effects of the intervention will be studied using questionnaires and fMRI in both a pilot, a randomized clinical trial and a follow-up study

Energy communities (ECs) are seen as one of the cornerstones of the sustainable energy transition. Yet, ECs’ success is limited by two main factors: (1) grid capacity at distribution system level, and (2) the ability and willingness of people, public and private entities to engage in joint activities in the energy sector by means of forming a “community”. This project investigates whether “mobile” ECs, based on electrical vehicles, can address these limitations. Specifically, electrical vehicles provide opportunities for: (1) energy transport outside the fixed grid, and (2) broadening the range of communities that can form ECs.

Apathy concerns a quantitative reduction of voluntary, goal-directed behaviors that impairs daily functioning. It is a prominent and severely debilitating aspect of several psychiatric disorders, most notably schizophrenia. Little is known regarding the neuroscientific basis of these symptoms, however. Clinically, it has been suggested that two forms of apathy can be distinguished: cognitive apathy (CA) and social-emotional apathy (SEA). Both involve a reduced behavioral activation. However, I propose that CA is primarily a dysfunction of cognitive control and self-initiated action, whereas SEA is primarily a failure to signal the salience of positive events (and hence reduced motivation). The present project, for the first time, tests the hypothesis that two neuroanatomically distinct routes underlie these two forms of apathy in schizophrenia: a dorsal frontostriatal circuit including the right parietal cortex for CA and a more ventral frontostriatal circuit including the reward system for SEA. The objective of this project is threefold. First, to investigate the differential cognitive and neural basis of apathy in schizophrenia patients, using functional MRI. Second, we will test the hypothesis that CA is associated with poorer long-term functioning and neurocognitive deficits. Third, we will conduct a controlled treatment study of a novel intervention to improve CA: transcranial magnetic stimulation over the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to activate a frontostriatal-parietal network. In summary, the present proposal aims to elucidate fundamental cognitive and emotional processes underlying apathy. A distinct contribution will be made by unravelling the neural basis of two pathways that may lead to apathy. Last but not least, the treatment study may contribute to novel strategies that will ultimately improve patients? lives. Ultimately, the results will also have implications for understanding apathy in patients with depression, brain damage and neurodegenerative diseases.

Dutch residents experience a diminishing sense of control over their lives and living environment. Besides, their trust in government institutions has decreased. At the same time, society faces multiple crises (housing, liveability, climate change, energy transition). Citizen collectives may be part of the solution, while they help communities to respond, resist and adapt to changes in their direct living environments. ECCO will develop models, methods, digital and non-digital tools that stimulate equal partnerships between governments and citizen collectives. These will provide them with practicable knowledge and skills, and show the value, credibility, and long-term impact of citizen collectives to governments.