Expert Commentary: Bridging the Gap Between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Evaluations of Large Language Models in Nutrition Chatbots
The use of large language models (LLMs) in the form of chatbots holds great promise for revolutionizing the field of nutrition by providing personalized advice and support to users. However, a key challenge in gaining widespread trust and acceptance of these LLM-based chatbots lies in the lack of rigorous extrinsic evaluations, particularly in comparison to the gold standard of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) commonly used in evidence-based research.
In this groundbreaking study, researchers aimed to address this gap by conducting the first RCT involving LLMs for nutrition chatbots. By augmenting a rule-based chatbot with LLM-based features such as message rephrasing and nutritional counseling, the study sought to evaluate the impact of LLM integration on dietary outcomes, emotional well-being, and user engagement over a seven-week period with a sample size of 81 participants.
While previous intrinsic evaluations of the LLM-based features showed promising results, the real-world deployment in the RCT did not consistently translate into tangible benefits for users. This discrepancy underscores the importance of moving beyond solely intrinsic evaluations and considering the broader, real-world impact of LLM-based systems in practical settings.
These findings emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaborations and human-centered approaches to further develop and refine LLM-based chatbots in the field of nutrition. By bridging the gap between intrinsic and extrinsic evaluations, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness and limitations of LLM-based systems, ultimately paving the way for evidence-based deployment and widespread acceptance of these innovative technologies.
For more details on the study methodology, results, and code, please visit: this https URL.
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Another major breakthrough in cosmology is the confirmation of the existence of gravitational waves, ripples in the fabric of spacetime that are produced by cataclysmic events such as the collision of black holes or neutron stars. In 2015, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) made history by detecting gravitational waves for the first time, confirming a key prediction of Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity. Since then, LIGO and other gravitational wave detectors have detected numerous gravitational wave events, providing astronomers with a new tool to study the universe and explore its most extreme phenomena.
Cosmologists have also made significant progress in understanding the early universe and the processes that led to the formation of galaxies and other cosmic structures. The cosmic microwave background radiation, leftover radiation from the Big Bang, has provided valuable insights into the conditions of the early universe and the seeds of cosmic structure. By studying the cosmic microwave background, scientists have been able to refine our understanding of the age, composition, and geometry of the universe, as well as the processes that gave rise to the first galaxies and stars.
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In conclusion, the mysteries of the universe continue to fascinate and inspire us, driving us to explore the cosmos and unlock its secrets. Through the efforts of dedicated researchers and the power of technology, we are making remarkable progress in unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos and gaining a deeper understanding of our place in the universe. As we continue to push the boundaries of our knowledge, the future of cosmology looks brighter than ever, promising new insights and discoveries that will shape our understanding of the universe for generations to come.
Bradford Digital Creatives has supported 1,860 students across six secondary schools, helping young people build new skills, discover hidden talents, and gain confidence in their own creative potential.
Funded by Arts Council England, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, and Bradford Council, the programme invited students to collaborate with professional artists on digital projects ranging from 360° filmmaking and soundscapes to Virtual Reality, light art and games design. Their work went on to be showcased in the Reel BFD: Digital Arts, Bradford Stories exhibition, in school displays across the district, and even on the dome of the iconic Jodrell Bank planetarium.
Students taking part in a Bradford Digital Creatives workshop at Carlton Bolling.
The final project report highlights the scale of the programme’s impact:
Over half of participating students reported increased interest in digital arts
7 in 10 gained new creative knowledge and skills
1 in 3 said they are now more likely to seek out digital arts activities
Students were significantly more likely to consider creative careers after taking part
90% of teachers said the project was valuable for their students and increased their own confidence with digital tools
Lindsay Wilson, Deputy Headteacher at Carlton Bolling, described witnessing a “transformation” in her school community, with students collaborating across friendship groups, discovering new abilities, and inspiring conversations at home about creative futures.
Many of the young people involved have already taken their experiences further. A 14-year-old student became a BAFTA Young Game Designers finalist after taking part in a workshop; Carlton Keighley launched a student-led Games Design Club; and several students have chosen new routes in education thanks to the skills and confidence they gained.
Sally Folkard, Head of Screen and Cultural Engagement at the museum, said the programme’s success lay in the exchange between artists and students:
“It wasn’t just about delivering workshops, but about sharing experiences, building confidence, and forging sustainable relationships between education and culture.”
The project is also part of Age of Wonder, Born in Bradford’s internationally significant research programme tracking adolescent health and wellbeing. It marks the first time creativity has been measured on this scale as part of a major longitudinal study.
Professor Rosie McEachan said the findings confirm that creativity can play a powerful role in supporting young people’s confidence, wellbeing and ambition.
With further funding secured, Bradford Digital Creatives will continue until March 2026. The partners are now working to develop a long-term model that embeds digital arts across more schools and strengthens connections between education, culture and industry.
Rhiannon Hannon, Director of Creative Engagement and Participation at Bradford 2025, said the project “opened up new possibilities for hundreds of students across the district,” aligning strongly with Bradford 2025’s mission to empower young people and amplify their voices.
As Lindsay Wilson reflected: “This project has set the bar for what creative education can be – collaborative, inclusive and transformative.”
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