Digital Apps Research Articles

Knowledge and Utilization of Digital Applications for Effective Service Delivery in Academic Libraries in South-South Universities, Nigeria

This study investigated knowledge and utilization of digital applications for effective service delivery in academic libraries in South-South universities, Nigeria. 3 research questions and 3 hypotheses were raised. The population included 181 selected Librarians in the twelve (12) selected universities in South-South, Nigeria as a case study. A sample size of 119 Librarians representing 66% of the population served as respondents. Convenience sampling technique was used for the study. A 25-item questionnaire was used for data collection. Cronbach alpha statistics was used to obtain 0.73 reliability. Mean/standard deviation were used for research questions and z-test statistics was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The result amongst others revealed that, Librarian in both federal and state universities are knowledgeable about Library Catalogue Apps, Library Card and Account Management Apps, Digital Preservation and Archives Apps and others. Meanwhile, Librarians in both federal and state universities poorly utilize Digital Citation Management Apps, Digital Library Card and Account Management Apps and Digital Preservation and Archives Apps. The analysis also shows that, Librarians do not utilize Digital Augmented and Virtual Reality Apps, Digital Library Events and Notifications Apps, Reading and E-Book Apps, Digital Study and Collaboration Apps and Quick Response (QR) Codes scanners. The challenges academic libraries face in promoting digital applications are inadequate skilled staff to operate digital libraries, difficulty in the enforcement of intellectual property rights, non-utilization of digital library Apps.

THE GIG ECONOMY AND ITS IMPLICATIONS ON CONTRACT LABOR LAWS

This paper analyses the effect of gig economy on contract labour laws. The gig economy has changed the nature of work, placed established employment models to the test, and brought up significant issues about the suitability of current contract labour rules. According to the Unorganised Workers' Social Security Act of 2008, a wage worker, self-employed individual, or someone working from home is referred to as an "unorganised worker." Although gig workers may not be included in this definition, they do fit under the second clause, which defines gig workers as those for whom no labour code defines the term. They are referred to as "platform workers" since their employment is dependent on platforms and they are hired by businesses using digital apps. Rajasthan is the first state in India to develop legislation protecting gig workers and giving them access to sufficient regulatory frameworks to stop exploitation of their freelance. This paper examines several gig economy issues while accounting for the growing demand for platform labour. It also offers a well-thought-out system for harmonious interactions between the aggregator and worker, as well as specific actions to meet these workers' demands. When the COVID-19 pandemic stuck, a large portion of the gig economy flourished since it was useful for delivering food, necessities, and transportation services, which were severely disrupted. The research's focus is restricted to talking about the problems that platform workers—individuals who work for aggregators like Swiggy, Ola, Uber, and so on—face and offering potential fixes.The paper investigates how the gig economy may affect contract labour laws. It does so by looking at the particulars of gig employment, how different jurisdictions have responded to regulations, and the opportunities and problems that may arise in providing gig workers with adequate safeguards. To meet the characteristics of this developing labour market, it also evaluates the necessity of regulatory adjustments. This article clarifies the intricacies of gig labour in India by thoroughly examining the rules governing labour today, such as the Code on Wages, and how they relate to gig workers.

Synergy of Real and Digital Worlds - Promising Insights for the Future Generations of Fashion

Digital transformation (DT) is reshaping the fashion industry, revolutionizing the way brands, retailers, and consumers interact. It is not a fad but a necessary step towards innovation and survival in today's business context. Implementing digital transformation requires a bespoke approach that addresses specific challenges and goals within the existing framework of each brand or retailer. Fashion brands are leveraging digital technologies throughout their value chain, from product design and production to marketing and distribution. Computer-aided design (CAD) software, predictive analytics, and 3D printing are streamlining the design and prototyping phases, reducing time-to market and improving product quality. Technologies like 3D body scanning, seamless garments and digitized looms are also being adopted. Brands like Hugo Boss are using smart factories that incorporate robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to increase efficiency. Moreover, digital integrated supply chain platforms, such as blockchain, are enabling faster and more efficient production by connecting brands with manufacturers and suppliers globally. The adoption of digital solutions extends to the production of futuristic textiles, digital clothing and virtual model / digital show stoppers. Retailers are also embracing DT to enhance the customer experience and expand their reach. E-commerce has become a crucial channel, allowing retailers to sell products online and reach a wider customer base. Many retailers are investing in robust online platforms and incorporating augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to offer immersive in-store shopping experiences. Data analytics and AI are being used to personalize recommendations and offers, enhancing customer engagement and loyalty. In-store virtual assistants or kiosks are worth mentioning in light of digital clientele. Social media platforms play a vital role in the fashion industry's digital transformation. Fashion brands are partnering with social media influencers to promote their products and reach a larger audience. Additionally, collaborative consumption models are emerging through digital apps, supporting sustainability efforts such as zero waste, recycling, and sharing goods or services. Consumers are benefiting from greater convenience, choice, and personalized experiences in the digital fashion landscape. They have access to a wide array of products from around the world and can find inspiration and style ideas on social media platforms. User generated content and reviews facilitate informed purchase decisions. Mobile technology advancements have blurred the lines between online and offline retail experiences, enabling consumers to shop anytime and anywhere. Adaptability, inclusivity, diversity, authenticity and traceability of product life cycle (Blockchain) have become driving instincts of Gen Zers and Millennials at purchase points. However, traditional industry players and small independent retailers face increased competition from e-commerce giants, necessitating their adaptation to digital technologies to remain relevant. The COVID 19 pandemic has accelerated this shift and normalized the idea of going digital. This paper presents an in-depth review of how digital transformations have various players within the fashion Industry with special reference to the brands, designers and enterprises implementing these for their evolution and progression to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Digital Peer-Supported App Intervention to Promote Physical Activity Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Nonrandomized Controlled Trial.

The use of mobile apps has promoted physical activity levels. Recently, with an increasing number of older adults accessing the internet, app-based interventions may be feasible in older populations. Peer support-based interventions have become a common method for promoting health-related behavior change. To our knowledge, the feasibility of using digital peer support apps (DPSAs) to increase physical activity among older adults and its impact on physical activity and physical function have not been investigated. This study aims to assess the feasibility of using DPSAs in older adults and to assess changes in physical activity and physical function in DPSA users. We conducted a nonrandomized controlled trial of older adults aged ≥65 years. We recruited participants for 2 distinct 12-week programs designed to increase physical activity. Participants could choose between an intervention group (app program and exercise instruction) or a control group (exercise instruction only). DPSA creates a group chat for up to 5 people with a common goal, and participants anonymously post to each other in the group. Once a day, participants posted a set of their step counts, photos, and comments on a group chat box. The intervention group used the DPSA after receiving 2 face-to-face lectures on its use. The participants were characterized using questionnaires, accelerometers, and physical function assessments. The feasibility of the DPSA was assessed using retention and adherence rates. Physical activity was assessed using accelerometers to measure the daily step count, light intensity physical activity, moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA), and sedentary behavior. Physical function was assessed using grip strength and the 30-second chair-stand test. The participants in the intervention group were more frequent users of apps, were more familiar with information and communication technology, and had a higher baseline physical activity level. The retention and adherence rates for the DPSA intervention were 88% (36/41) and 87.7%, respectively, indicating good feasibility. Participants in the intervention group increased their step count by at least 1000 steps and their MVPA by at least 10 minutes using the DPSA. There was a significant difference in the interaction between groups and intervention time points in the daily step count and MVPA (step count, P=.04; duration of MVPA, P=.02). The DPSA increased physical activity, especially in older adults with low baseline physical activity levels. The feasibility of DPSA was found to be good, with the intervention group showing increases in daily steps and MVPA. The effects of DPSA on step count, physical activity, and physical function in older adults with low baseline physical activity should be investigated using randomized controlled trials.

Digital tools and digital pedagogy for placemaking

PurposeThe surge of digital technologies and information communication technologies poses a challenge to traditional placemaking, influencing how people live, communicate and connect with their environments. In response, placemaking practices are integrating emerging digital technologies, giving rise to digital placemaking. This digital approach aims to present new opportunities for establishing a sense of place, encouraging unique interactions and adding value to communities in social, economic, cultural and environmental aspects.Design/methodology/approachThis paper aims to examine the current landscape of digital tools and apps that facilitate digital placemaking. Conducting an extensive literature review, the research evaluates these tools based on their positive contributions to placemaking, categorizing them according to the aspects they enhance in the placemaking process. These aspects include social dynamics, cultural influences, environmental considerations, artistic qualities, heritage preservation, support for human well-being, urban development and opportunities for digital collaboration among citizens. Additionally, the paper explores digital pedagogy for placemaking, analyzing various tools for their educational approach, knowledge production methods and learning outcomes.FindingsThe findings indicate a growing trend in utilizing digital tools for placemaking, driven by technological advancements like augmented and virtual reality, artificial intelligence and the internet of things. Similar to traditional placemaking, digital practices are collaborative and context-dependent, requiring engagement from multiple stakeholders for optimal success. Notably, successful digital placemaking apps often incorporate interactivity and multimodality. Digital collaborative platforms can significantly impact placemaking and sustainable urban design, serving as effective tools for both bottom-up and top-down knowledge production and learning related to placemaking.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of this study must be seen considering certain limitations. The scoping review utilized analysis of most relevant bibliometric databases, however, in the domain of digital placemaking there are undertakings by private companies, nongovernmental as well as governmental organizations which are not cited in the scientific databases. This limitation was tackled by using conventional search engines like Google and Bing to identify and study such projects. Also, it must be noted that the digital domain is rapidly developing and being integrated in digital placemaking. Even more, the artificial intelligence technology, which is being applied across all disciplines, with so far unforeseen possibilities, should be further examined how it is being adopted and implemented in the domain of digital placemaking and which are its impacts in the placemaking processes and outcomes.Originality/valueDespite these advancements, many digital tools lack a comprehensive approach to address the various aspects of sustainability in placemaking. Consequently, further research is needed to develop digital tools that adopt a holistic approach, ensuring justifiability and feasibility in social, environmental and economic terms. Furthermore, in alignment with the goals of the EU Green Deal, incorporating Circular Economy principles into the development of new digital placemaking methods and tools is crucial.

Closing the Diagnostic Gap in Encephalitis and Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis through Digital Case Classification and Viral Metagenomics

Encephalitis and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) are often caused or triggered by viruses—but the specific pathogen commonly remains unidentified in routine care. We explored the use of viral metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in addition to PCR testing of non-invasive stool samples to see if unbiased testing could potentially increase diagnostic yield. To identify specific clinical cases at the point of care, we took advantage of a previously published digital app allowing instant clinical case classification based on consensus case criteria, the VACC-Tool. This hospital-based prospective digital surveillance program assessed 100 pediatric patients (mean age: 11 years, range: 0.15–17.85; 49% male) with case-confirmed encephalitis and/or ADEM. Analysis of case classification at the point of care revealed that in routine care, 96% of confirmed encephalitis/ADEM cases had been missed. Overall agreement of routine care diagnoses with digital encephalitis/ADEM case classification was <50%. Also in routine care, only 13% of cases held a virus-related diagnosis, i.e., herpesvirus (n = 8) and enterovirus infection (n = 5). Use of mNGS increased the yield of virus detection by 77% (n = 23 virus hits). Specifically, mNGS identified 10 additional virus species beyond herpes- and enteroviruses. Of the additional 23 virus hits detected with mNGS, PCR confirmation was possible post hoc in 14 cases (61%). Linking digital case classification, mNGS, and PCR testing may not be feasible in routine care at this point but may help to provide hints to the pathogenesis of encephalitis/ADEM in childhood, warranting further research and exploration.

Enhancing Financial Education in Lower Primary with Concrete Kits and Digital Teaching Apps

Enhancing Financial Education in Lower Primary with Concrete Kits and Digital Teaching Apps

Sleep hygiene measures combined with mindfulness meditation in the management of sleep bruxism in children: A randomized controlled clinical trial.

Sleep hygiene measures and meditation may reduce stress and improve sleep quality, but their effect on the occurrence of sleep bruxism in children has not yet been investigated. To explore the effects of sleep hygiene measures combined with mindfulness meditation (relaxation audio) in the management of probable sleep bruxism (SB) in children. This clinical trial (no. NCT04501237) randomized 36 children with 3-8 years of age. Probable SB detection was performed according to the criteria established by the International Consensus on The Assessment of Bruxism-2018. Intervention group was instructed to practice sleep hygiene measures and mindfulness meditation (i.e., the use of a digital app to broadcast audio relaxation) each night before bedtime for 5 weeks; control group did not receive guidance for therapies. Parents completed a bruxism diary for 5 weeks, and the outcome was the number of SB episodes-day reported in the week (ranging from 0 to 7) in each period. A multilevel mixed-effects Poisson regression model was performed. A total of 32 children (mean age: 6.1 years) completed the study. The children who received the therapies related to sleep hygiene measures and mindfulness meditation had a reduction in the SB incidence rate ratio (IRR)of 46% (IRR = 0.54 [Confidence Interval 95%, 0.45-0.65]) during a 5-week observation period. The sensitivity analyses did not show relevant changes in the measure of the effect. Sleep hygiene measures combined with mindfulness meditation reduced the SB in children.

Process evaluation of a Structured E-parenting Support (STEPS) in the OPTIMA randomised controlled trial: a protocol

IntroductionStructured E-parenting Support (STEPS) is a digital application (app) designed to help parents manage behaviour of their children who are referred to mental health services and are waiting for an...

A Curriculum on Digital Psychiatry for a US-Based Psychiatry Residency Training Program: Pilot Implementation Study.

Digital psychiatry, defined as the application of health technologies to the prevention, assessment, and treatment of mental health illnesses, is a growing field. Interest in the clinical use of these technologies continues to grow. However, psychiatric trainees receive limited or no formal education on the topic. This study aims to pilot a curriculum on digital psychiatry for a US-based psychiatry residency training program and examine the change in learner confidence regarding appraisal and clinical recommendation of digital mental health apps. Two 60-minute sessions were presented through a web-based platform to postgraduate year 2-4 residents training in psychiatry at a US-based adult psychiatry residency program. Learner confidence was assessed using pre- and postsession surveys. Matched pre- and postsession quizzes showed improved confidence in multiple domains aligning with the course objectives. This included the structured appraisal of digital mental health apps (P=.03),assessment of a patient's digital health literacy (P=.01), formal recommendation of digital health tools (P=.03), and prescription of digital therapeutics to patients (P=.03). Though an improvement from baseline, mean ratings for confidence did not exceed "somewhat comfortable" on any of the above measures. Our study shows the feasibility of implementing a digital psychiatry curriculum for residents in multiple levels of training. We also identified an opportunity to increase learner confidence in the appraisal and clinical use of digital mental health apps through the use of a formal curriculum.

Inverting social innovation to transform health system responses to climate change adaptation and mitigation in the global south.

Systems thinking is aimed at understanding and solving complex problems that cut across sectors, an approach that requires accurate, timely, and multisectoral data. Citizen-driven big data can advance systems thinking, considering the widespread use of digital devices. Using digital platforms, data from these devices can transform health systems to predict and prevent global health crises and respond rapidly to emerging crises by providing citizens with real-time support. For example, citizens can obtain real-time support to help with public health risks via a digital app, which can predict evolving risks. These big data can be aggregated and visualized on digital dashboards, which can provide decision-makers with advanced data analytics to facilitate jurisdiction-level rapid responses to evolving climate change impacts (e.g., direct public health crisis communication). In the context of climate change, digital platforms can strengthen rapid responses by integrating information across systems (e.g., food, health, and social services) via citizen big data. More importantly, these big data can be used for rapid decision-making,a paradigm-changing approach that can invert social innovation, which we define as co-conceptualizing societal solutions with vulnerable communities to improve economic development with a focus on community wellbeing. However, to foster equitable and inclusive digital partnerships that invert social innovation, it is critical to avoid top-down approaches that sometimes result when researchers in the Global North and South collaborate. Equitable Global South-North partnerships can be built by combining digital citizen science and community-based participatory research to ethically leverage citizen-driven big data for rapid responses across international jurisdictions.

Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mobile App-Based TEAM-CBT (Testing Empathy Assessment Methods-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) Intervention (Feeling Good) for Depression: Secondary Data Analysis.

The Feeling Good App is an automated stand-alone digital mobile mental health tool currently undergoing beta testing with the goal of providing evidence-informed self-help lessons and exercises to help individuals reduce depressive symptoms without guidance from a mental health provider. Users work through intensive basic training (IBT) and ongoing training models that provide education regarding cognitive behavioral therapy principles from a smartphone. The key objective of this study was to perform a nonsponsored third-party academic assessment of an industry-generated data set; this data set focused on the safety, feasibility, and accessibility of a commercial automated digital mobile mental health app that was developed to reduce feelings associated with depression. The Feeling Good App development team created a waitlist cohort crossover design and measured symptoms of depression and anxiety using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and an app-specific measure of negative feelings called the 7 Dimension Emotion Slider (7-DES). The waitlist cohort crossover design divided the participants into 2 groups, where 48.6% (141/290) of the participants were given immediate access to the apps, while 51.4% (149/290) were placed on a 2-week waitlist before being given access to the app. Data collected by the Feeling Good App development team were deidentified and provided to the authors of this paper for analysis through a nonsponsored university data use agreement. All quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics (version 28.0; IBM Corp). Descriptive statistics were calculated for demographic variables. Feasibility and acceptability were descriptively assessed. All participants included in the quantitative data were given access to the Feeling Good App; this study did not include a control group. In terms of safety, there was no statistically significant change in suicidality from preintervention to postintervention time points (t288=0.0; P>.99), and there was a statistically significant decrease in hopelessness from preintervention to postintervention time points (F289=30.16; P<.01). In terms of acceptability, 72.2% (166/230) of the users who started the initial 2-day IBT went on to complete it, while 34.8% (80/230) of the users who started IBT completed the entirety of the apps' 4-week protocol (150/230, 65.22% dropout rate over 4 weeks). This study is the first reported proof-of-concept evaluation of the Feeling Good App in terms of safety, feasibility, and statistical trends within the data set. It demonstrates a feasible and novel approach to industry and academic collaboration in the process of developing a digital mental health technology translated from an existing evidence-informed treatment. The results support the prototype app as safe for a select nonclinical population. The app had acceptable levels of engagement and dropouts throughout the intervention. Those who stay engaged showed reductions in symptom severity of depression warranting further investigation of the app's efficacy.

Acceptance of digital apps in the follow-up of patients with head and neck tumors

Patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures lead to improved quality of life in cancer patients and possibly to earlier detection of tumor recurrence. Patient interest in complementing tumor follow-up care with apps for recording PROs was assessed using a questionnaire. An independently created questionnaire to record the interest of tumor patients in adigitalized form of tumor follow-up care was evaluated (n = 110). In the study, the majority of tumor patients were interested in using an app for tumor disease. Taking age into account, the number increased even further for patients < 60years of age, as expected. In line with this, human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive patients showed significantly greater interest (p = 0.021). The introduction of an app is supported by the majority of tumor patients. In addition to recording PROs, other applications (appointment reminders, patient files, sports/nutrition programs) could also be integrated.

Abstract PO4-17-07: RELATE 2: A real-world observational study assessing feasibility, acceptability, perceived impacts of digital apps for patients receiving olaparib or trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) as part of routine clinical practice

Abstract Background: Safe and effective use of two new treatments, T-DXd or olaparib, in breast cancer (BC) requires awareness, education and co-ownership by patients and care teams. It is hypothesized that a patient-centered digital app that provides disease and treatment-specific guidance and symptom reporting functionality while collecting specific data could positively impact patients’ confidence, self-monitoring of symptoms and experience of care. This study will develop and assess two new treatment-specific versions of the accredited OWise app to evaluate how BC patients accept and use the app and how use in routine care appears to impact patients and their experience of care in relation to monitoring symptoms. As a novel element, this study will explore the feasibility of combining treatment-specific real-world data collection with digital health support to understand how treatment patterns and characteristics in the real-world setting. OWise is a specific BC app that has been endorsed by NHS digital and is widely available through NHS app library in UK and in Netherlands. It currently has over 18K registered users. Trial Design: The study involves two workstreams which include several sources for data collection. Workstream 1 involves collection of participants OWise data (including patient entered data as well as usage statistics) and a brief survey for participants to provide feedback on their experience using OWise every three months for up to 18 months. Survey questions are focused on their perceptions of the usefulness of the app for monitoring their health changes and communicating with their care team. Workstream 2, will launch approximately three months after the launch of Workstream 1 and will include qualitative interviews with two groups of people: 1) a small number of participants who are already enrolled in Workstream 1 and 2) clinicians (and multidisciplinary team/nurses) to further understand the perceived benefits of the app. The study’s duration will be 21 months Eligibility Criteria: The patients must be prescribed either T-DXd or Olaparib and be at least 18 years of age, be able to create an OWise account (e.g., mobile or web application) and have activated the unique study code for the treatment specific version of OWise and be able to provide online consent for study participation Aims: Primary objectives are to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and perceived impacts on patient experience, treatment use, and quality of care of two treatment specific OWise apps in routine BC care. Secondary objectives will focus on prescribing patterns, concomitant medicine use in UK practice, understanding strategies used in the real-world setting to manage AE and demographic and clinical characteristics of patients treated in the UK Statistical methods: Aggregated Participant-level quantitative data and usage data will be analyzed for response frequencies, means, standard deviations (SD), medians, ranges, and confidence intervals (CI). Descriptive statistics and advanced statistics will be used to identify core variables and trends, investigate data distribution links between data, test significant differences between datasets according to profile/status. Target Accrual: 300 patients T-DXd and 150 olaparib using the OWise app and being part of the real-world study. The prescription decision is independent of the study enrolment. Contact: Dr Sophie McGrath. sophie.mcgrath@rmh.nhs.uk Citation Format: Sophie McGrath, Peter Hall, Michael Acquadro, Soren Skovlund, Parveen Jayia, Stuart McIntosh, David Cameron. RELATE 2: A real-world observational study assessing feasibility, acceptability, perceived impacts of digital apps for patients receiving olaparib or trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) as part of routine clinical practice [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-17-07.

Abstract PO2-09-10: Addressing Breast Cancer Disparities: Co-Creating Digital Interventions with Patients, Navigators &amp; the Community to Address Social Determinants of Health in the Memphis Statistical Area

Abstract Background: The Memphis Statistical Area, which covers counties in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee, leads in disparities in mortality rates between Black breast cancer patients compared to White counterparts1. Urban Health Education &amp; Support Services (UHESS), in partnership with RabbleHealth, and West Cancer Center &amp; Research Institute (WCCRI), initiated a solutions-oriented, community-based scalable initiative in January 2023 to measurably address social determinants of health (SDOH), which often drive cancer inequities that disproportionately impact individuals of marginalized communities. By leveraging a community-driven, co-creation sustainable approach, the team sought to measurably improve breast cancer equality utilizing digital enablement and the knowledge of local breast cancer survivors and leading healthcare professionals, including navigators. Methods: A four-phase approach was leveraged to 1. improve access to locally available breast cancer services in communities that are traditionally underserved and 2. measure the public health impact against root causes of breast inequities (i.e., care pathway metrics), and 3. create a repeatable, scalable model to expand to other underserved communities. In Phase 1, UHESS leveraged the Mid-South Regional Breast Cancer Coalition, which convenes ten local breast cancer patient advocacy organizations, to recruit focus groups for co-creation throughout all phases of the initiative. The working group consisted of eight representatives from a variety of Memphis-based cancer organizations, faith-based organizations, navigator programs, and WCCRI. This phase centered around establishing trust with the local patient advocacy community. In Phase 2, an initial patient survey was circulated to identify key resources that reduce health inequities and barriers to access. Human-centered design facilitators supported a series of Listen &amp; Learn workshops with patients to convey root causes of gaps in access to relevant services and with navigators to understand professional needs of navigators and scale the ability improve patient access to resources. To co-create a solution, facilitated patient and navigator workshops were held in Phase 3 to gather patient-centric user experience and design enhancements for a digital patient engagement app. These requirements as well as navigator-defined metrics needs were digitized and organized by SDoH. Phase 4, the Deploy &amp; Measure phase, will begin in September of 2023 and the community-based deployment model focuses on three drivers including: (a) embedding within navigator workflow, (b) activating faith-based organizations, and (c) leveraging societies. Health equity performance data will be analyzed weekly to rapidly target those ZIP codes with the greatest need. Results: Co-design efforts included over 50 members of the Greater Memphis community and final initiative results will be presented at the meeting. Planning for further research regarding community impact and model scalability is already underway. Conclusion: By leveraging a community-driven, co-creation sustainable approach, this model enables a better way to measurably improve breast cancer equality utilizing digital enablement and the knowledge of local breast cancer survivors and leading healthcare professionals, including navigators. Initiative Funding Acknowledgements: Gilead Life Sciences &amp; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee Foundation 1. Vidal G, Bursac Z, Miranda-Carboni G, White-Means S, Starlard-Davenport A. Racial disparities in survival outcomes by breast tumor subtype among African American women in Memphis, Tennessee. Cancer Med. 2017 Jul;6(7):1776-1786. doi: 10.1002/cam4.1117. Epub 2017 Jun 14. PMID: 28612435; PMCID: PMC5504313. Citation Format: Gregory Vidal, Stacey Tinianov, Aubrey Kelly, Andrea Curry, Carla Baker. Addressing Breast Cancer Disparities: Co-Creating Digital Interventions with Patients, Navigators &amp; the Community to Address Social Determinants of Health in the Memphis Statistical Area [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-09-10.

INADEQUATE CARE OF HYPERTENSION AND OTHER NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN SOUTH AFRICA

Objective: In the setting of an already overburdened healthcare system, South Africa has a high burden of hypertension and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the country experienced a high COVID-19 caseload. The aim of this study was to examine the perceptions and experiences of 1) healthcare professionals (HPs) on the preparedness of health systems to provide NCD care and of NCD management during the COVID-19 pandemic, and 2) people living with NCDs (PLWNCDs) on the care they received for hypertension and other NCDs during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Design and method: Across the country, we recruited a convenience sample of 1) HPs who worked in healthcare management i.e., public health officials and healthcare workers who provided care and engaged with patients in any healthcare capacity, and 2) PLWNCDs with at least 1 NCD. Questionnaires included quantitative and open-ended follow-up questions. Quantitative analyses were conducted using SPSS. The qualitative open-ended questions were evaluated using content analysis with inductive reasoning. Results: There were 31 HPs and 79 PLWNCDs (59 with hypertension) included in this cross-sectional study. HPs perceived COVID-19 care to be adequate, while NCD care was poor during the pandemic. There were service disruptions including for emergency and specialised NCDs care. Strategies for the care of non-COVID-19 illnesses during the pandemic were absent. This would have serious long-term consequences for PLWNCDs and the healthcare system. Perceptions of inadequate hypertension and other NCD care were reiterated by PLWNCDs; 49% felt they received ’very little’ or no adequate care. 18% had a scheduled appointment cancelled. Additionally, many PLWNCDs (52%) felt anxious, lonely, or frightened during the pandemic and 15% felt their mental health had deteriorated. The utility of digital health in future was positively perceived by both HPs and PLWNCDs and may be able to improve health provision during crises. Conclusions: Policies are required 1) so that NCD care will not be overlooked during future crises and 2) to encourage PLWNCDs to timeously access healthcare services during such periods. Such strategies may incorporate digital health apps to improve care and target the mental healthcare needs of PLWNCDs.

2831: Real-world utilisation of a digital app in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer

2831: Real-world utilisation of a digital app in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer

Effect of Electronic Payment System on Marketing Performance of SMEs in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Although the electronic payment system is regulated, in some instances, most SME owners tend to perceive the new system as a threat due to the high rate of cybercrime, network issues, hanging of transactions, and poor description of payer identity, among others. This study examined the effect of the e-payment system on the marketing performance of selected small and medium-scale enterprises in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. primary data were gathered through a questionnaire administered to owners/managers of SMEs in Akwa Ibom State. The independent variables were the e-payment system (proxied via bank mobile app, POS and digital mobile app) and the dependent variable was performance (proxied via customer patronage). Data obtained for the study were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings showed that POS, Bank mobile app and Automated Teller Machine (ATM) were mostly used which ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. Digital wallets, credit card online transactions and the use of crypto-currency for business were ranked 4th, 5th and 6th respectively. The study revealed that the Bank mobile app, use of point of sales (POS) machine, and Digital wallet app have significant effects on customer patronage of small and medium-scale enterprises. The study concluded that the introduction of the e-payment system (cashless policy) has a significant influence on the operation, performance and customer patronage of small and mediumscale businesses in Akwa Ibom State. It was recommended, among others, that SME operators should be trained on how to use electronic payment systems such as electronic fund transfer, mobile banking, internet banking and online remittance.

Digital Apps to Improve Mobility in Adults with Neurological Conditions: A Health App-Focused Systematic Review.

The provision of mobility exercises through a smartphone application (app) for people undertaking neurological rehabilitation may improve mobility outcomes. However, it is difficult for clinicians and consumers to select high-quality, appropriate apps. This review aimed to identify (1) which mobile health (mHealth) apps are suitable for prescribing mobility exercises for adults with neurological health conditions, (2) how well these apps incorporate telehealth strategies, and (3) how well these apps rate in terms of quality and capacity for behaviour change. The Australian Apple iTunes Store was systematically searched, by using a search code and manually, for apps suitable for training mobility in neurological rehabilitation. Additional searches were conducted in known app repositories and for web-based apps. Trained reviewers extracted data from the included apps, including population-specific characteristics; quality, by using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS); and behaviour change potential, by using the App Behaviour Change Scale (ABACUS). The included apps (n = 18) provided <50 to >10,000 exercises, many incurred a subscription fee (n = 13), and half included telehealth features. App quality was moderate (mean MARS score of 3.2/5 and SD of 0.5), and potential for behaviour change was poor (mean ABACUS score of 5.7/21 and SD of 2.1). A limited number of high-quality apps are available for the prescription of mobility exercises in people with neurological conditions.

Digital Self-Management Platform for Adult Asthma: Randomized Attention-Placebo Controlled Trial.

Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide, with a substantial individual and health care burden. Digital apps hold promise as a highly accessible, low-cost method of enhancing self-management in asthma, which is critical to effective asthma control. We conducted a fully remote randomized controlled trial (RCT) to assess the efficacy of juli, a commercially available smartphone self-management platform for asthma. We conducted a pragmatic single-blind, RCT of juli for asthma management. Our study included participants aged 18 years and older who self-identified as having asthma and had an Asthma Control Test (ACT) score of 19 or lower (indicating uncontrolled asthma) at the beginning of the trial. Participants were randomized (1:1 ratio) to receive juli for 8 weeks or a limited attention-placebo control version of the app. The primary outcome measure was the difference in ACT scores after 8 weeks. Secondary outcomes included remission (ACT score greater than 19), minimal clinically important difference (an improvement of 3 or more points on the ACT), worsening of asthma, and health-related quality of life. The primary analysis included participants using the app for 8 weeks (per-protocol analysis), and the secondary analysis used a modified intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. We randomized 411 participants between May 2021 and April 2023: a total of 152 (37%) participants engaged with the app for 8 weeks and were included in the per-protocol analysis, and 262 (63.7%) participants completed the week-2 outcome assessment and were included in the modified ITT analysis. Total attrition between baseline and week 8 was 259 (63%) individuals. In the per-protocol analysis, the intervention group had a higher mean ACT score (17.93, SD 4.72) than the control group (16.24, SD 5.78) by week 8 (baseline adjusted coefficient 1.91, 95% CI 0.31-3.51; P=.02). Participants using juli had greater odds of achieving or exceeding the minimal clinically important difference at 8 weeks (adjusted odds ratio 2.38, 95% CI 1.20-4.70; P=.01). There were no between group differences in the other secondary outcomes at 8 weeks. The results from the modified ITT analyses were similar. Users of juli had improved asthma symptom control over 8 weeks compared with users of a version of the app with limited functionality. These findings suggest that juli is an effective digital self-management platform that could augment existing care pathways for asthma. The retention of patients in RCTs and real-world use of digital health care apps is a major challenge. International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) registry ISRCTN87679686; https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN87679686.