Character User Interface Research Articles

A tool written in Scala for preparation and analysis in MD simulation and 3D-RISM calculation of biomolecules.

Researchers studying biomolecules require easy-to-use, customizable tools allowing them to effectively use other molecular science packages written for molecular dynamics (MD), quantum chemistry, statistical mechanics, and molecular graphics. This paper presents a Scala tool for the computational science of biomolecules (STCSB) developed in Scala, which allows users to prepare and run MD simulations, as well as perform three-dimensional reference interaction site model (3D-RISM) calculations of biomolecules. Features of the STCSB include the following: (1) a cross-platform application running on a Java virtual machine; (2) handling hierarchical XML-based data formats such as the protein data bank markup language (PDBML); (3) prepared application programming interfaces (APIs) with both character user interface (CUI) and graphical user interface (GUI) options; (4) prepared APIs for molecular graphics; and (5) a scalable source code based on the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architectural pattern.

A Mixed User Interface for a Statistical System

Nowadays a graphical user interface (GUI) is popular because it is easy and intuitive to use. A character user interface (CUI) is, however, still important for providing access to the full power of the system. A CUI allows users to write statistical programs to perform complicated analyses that are not realized in the built-in functions of the system. In this article, therefore, we insist on the significance of a “mixed user interface” for utilizing both a GUI and a CUI together in a statistical system. We discuss the characteristics required for a mixed user interface, and describe its implementation in the statistical system Jasp (Java based statistical processor). Jasp is written in the Java language and adopts many recently developed computer technologies. We have designed the GUI and the CUI to be used independently, but able to be selected seamlessly and alternatively depending on the user’s purposes and levels of expertise with the system.

Computerised systematic secondary prevention in ischaemic heart disease: a study in one practice

Background: One of the most effective interventions that the primary health care team can make is that of secondary prevention in ischaemic heart disease (IHD). There is still a need to improve the uptake of effective interventions such as aspirin and statins in these patients. General Practice in the UK is 95% computerised, but many functions are under-utilised. In the majority of cases primary care clinicians use the keyboard rather than mouse for data entry. Methods of data entry using the keyboard or CHUI (Character User Interface) can be cumbersome and time consuming. This can limit data collection and its assimilation for patient care. The object of this study was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a new software programme, which provides computerised support to primary care staff in their preventive care of IHD patients. Aim: To demonstrate that a systematic computer facilitated secondary prevention programme for IHD was effective, feasible, and acceptable to patients and improved patient care. Method: Evidence-based guidelines and intervention levels for secondary prevention of IHD were agreed at practice level and embedded in the software. Patients aged 80 and under were identified by the use of Read codes and repeat prescribing. The nurse-run programme consisted of a detailed review of electronic and written records and then the clinical review of 141 patients. At follow-up patients were issued with a questionnaire to assess their satisfaction with the process. Results: From a general practice computer search for ischaemic heart disease Read Code (G3) and/or nitrate prescription an initial cohort of 242 patients was established. 90 were excluded on clinical grounds (not IHD, deceased, over-riding other clinical problems), and eleven patients could not be recruited (eight declined and three had moved away). The final cohort consisted of 141 patients, of whom 101 patients suffered angina, 67 had a previous history of myocardial infarction, and 28 had had coronary artery bypass grafting. Hypertension had been diagnosed in 80 and hyperlipidaemia in 43. As a result of the study new diagnoses included: hyperlipidaemia where statins were indicated (38), congestive cardiac failure requiring treatment with ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitors (2) and carotid bruits requiring referral (4). In addition diabetes was diagnosed in three patients. The programme proved acceptable to patients, doctors and practice staff; follow-up continues. Conclusion: The use of this methodology, in a single practice, has improved the care of patients well beyond that achieved with established template-based secondary prevention programmes. The outcome has been measured in terms of increased diagnosis and active management of hyperlipidaemia and other risk factors. Public Health (2000) 114, 169–175

Study of User Preference of Graphic User Interface in Laboratory Information System

In order to elucidate employees satisfaction levels in using graphic user interface. (GUI) in a laboratory information system (LIS), users attitudes toward GUI versus CUI. (Character User Interface) in a similar LIS were surveyed one month after implementing upgraded version of LIS in a tertiary care university hospital laboratory. The outcome of the study showed that approximately two third of users preferred to have GUI in LIS. There was no difference in preference of GUI of users whether they had previous experience with GUI or not. However the female and older employees tend to shy away from GUI. The employee productivity was improved with GUI although it takes slightly longer program loading time than that of CUI. In conclusion, the laboratory employee satisfaction was higher with GUI than CUI and their productivity was improved with GUI.

GUI vs CUI: Individual personality types and the experience of learning to use library databases

Some people have more problems than others in learning and using computer applications. The theory of personality type as developed by Myers and Briggs provides a model that could explain why this is so. The theory holds that if the working and learning situation matches the personality type preferences of the individual, then the experience will be more productive, more personally rewarding and less tiring. This is because the preferred and developed processes of the individual are called upon. This research, although very limited in scope, supports this view.A pilot project, conducted as part of the course work for a Graduate Diploma in Social Ecology assessed the compatability between the Personality Types of five participants and their learning to use a database with a Character User Interface (CUI) and one with a Graphic User Interface (GUI). All participants found it was much easier and less stressful to use the GUI than the CUI database when they were learning to use them.