Interest In Mobile Applications Research Articles

VALIDATION OF THE SMARTPHONE BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT SOLUTION OPTIBP™ TO TRACK BLOOD PRESSURE CHANGES IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Objective: Hypertensive disorders present significant morbidity and mortality during pregnancy. While ambulatory blood pressure measurement remains the standard of care for normotensive women, self-monitoring at home is increasingly prevalent. The widespread use of smartphones worldwide has sparked interest in mobile applications that leverage the built-in hardware for blood pressure estimation, yet few trials have assessed their accuracy. Design and method: This prospective, longitudinal and monocentric study evaluated the accuracy of the OptiBP algorithm against standard oscillometric blood pressure measurements in a sample of pregnant women. Patients scheduled for elective caesarean sections were enrolled during the preoperative anesthesia consultations. Paired blood pressure measurements using OptiBP and the reference method were obtained at multiple time-points in late pregnancy and the post-partum period. Agreement between methods was assessed using the AAMI/ESH/ISO 81060-2:2018 standard thresholds of 5±8 mmHg for mean ± standard deviation of the error (criterion 1) and patient-specific standard deviation of the mean error (criterion 2) and represented graphically by Bland-Altman scatterplots. Results: Twenty-four women were enrolled of which 15 completed the protocol, yielding 166 total valid measurement pairs. Mean and standard deviation of the error were -0.74 ± 8.38 and 0.99±6.88, and the patient-specific standard deviation of the mean error was 5.84 and 3.36, for SBP and DBP respectively. Conclusions: Compared with blood pressure measure with an oscillometric device, OptiBP's blood pressure estimates meet the AAMI/ESH/ISO 81060-2:2018 criteria for DBP.

A Study on Consumer Preferences towards Android and iOS

Now mobile users prefer to use mainly mobile applications rather than browsers for accessing mobile services. Android and iOS are today’s two major OS who have been fighting out in the market for the big bite. Nokia has been traditionally dominated by the Indian mobile market. Application markets have grown swiftly as a result of investing user interest in mobile applications. Measuring and analyzing users perceptions in mobile application is the main focus of the study and it discusses how different operating systems being used affect the user preferences. The main contribution of this paper is to explore users' attitudes towards mobile app. Moreover, whether the gender factor and operating system (OS) being used on a user’s mobile device has any connection with that user’s insight of the applications is investigated as an issue not explored in previous studies Findings of this article may help different sectors people like service providers, business models developers and also the actors of m commerce market. Since the m-commerce market gains importance every day and provides more potential for new commerce trends, the findings of this study will be valuable for further research.

A new indicator for minimizing size of an ORC power plant based on heat exchanger and turbine design parameters

• System size index SSI – a novel indicator for minimizing size of the ORC is proposed. • SSI is defined based on heat exchanger area and turbine rotor diameter. • By using heat transfer indicators, the turbine may be oversized by up to 70%. • With the use of turbine indices, the heat exchanger may be oversized by up to 40% . • By applying the SSI index, the ORC components are sized optimally. The increasing interest in mobile applications and modular structures of an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) has resulted in growing importance of the optimal sizing of the ORC installation. Most of the existing works were focused on reducing dimensions of the ORC by applying indicators estimating size of a single type of the ORC component. This study aims to define an indicator which comprehensively evaluates the size of the ORC power plant. The proposed indicator, specified as System Size Index SSI , is formulated based on two key ORC design parameters, namely the total heat transfer area of the heat exchangers and the rotor diameter of the turbine. To examine the versatility of SSI , the analysis was conducted considering different ORC applications scenarios, including modular geothermal power plants and mobile waste heat recovery units. The findings of single-objective optimization procedures have shown that by applying indicators evaluating size of the heat exchangers, the turbine rotor diameter may deviate from its smallest possible dimension by up to 70%. Similarly, by utilizing indices evaluating size of the turbine, the heat exchangers area may differ from its optimal size by up to 40%. Meanwhile, by using the SSI indicator, both the total heat transfer area and turbine rotor diameter did not differ from their smallest possible dimensions by more than 1% for each scenario considered. Finally, based on a bi-objective analysis with SSI and net power output as the criteria, it was concluded that by applying such indicators as APR parameter or performance factor PF , the designer is left with a single design solution, while the adoption of the bi-objective approach gives much more flexibility in finding a compromise between the system size and power output of the installation.

MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES AS A TOOL IN EFL TEACHING

Even the groundswell of interest in mobile applications has not so far contributed to their integration into educational programs as an EFL learning tool. The purpose of the present review is to identify the current state and prospects for the use of mobile technologies in EFL teaching. The methodological basis of this research is a theoretical analysis of the literature data on the research topic. The evaluation of contemporary empirical studies conducted in Australia, China, Iran, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Japan, Malaysia, Spain, Taiwan and other countries, has led to a conclusion that the implementation of mobile technology in EFL teaching gives predominantly positive results due to several merits of mobile devices relative to standard pedagogical tools. It was however underlined that researchers have yet to learn how to conduct methodologically sound, statistically relevant studies that would cover aspects of learning activities beyond the use of mobile technology. The authors conclude that when studying applications, researchers should not try to find a mobile application that can teach students everything they need, but should study the ways in which individual applications help to master a foreign language.

Seizure action plans in the pediatric population with epilepsy: Uptake, determinants, and parental interest in a mobile application

BackgroundStatus epilepticus (SE) is a common pediatric neurological emergency that requires timely treatment to minimize morbidity and mortality, yet administration of rescue medications is often delayed and underdosed. Seizure action plans (SAPs) outline the steps that should be taken by parents and caregivers in case of SE in order to optimize patient outcomes. Our study determined the uptake of SAPs in a pediatric population with epilepsy and assessed parental interest in a SAP mobile application. MethodsA survey was distributed to parents of patients with epilepsy aged 1 month to 19 years at British Columbia Children’s Hospital. Following chart review, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify variables that predict whether patients have SAPs. A systematic search of available mobile applications for epilepsy management was conducted. ResultsOf 192 participants, 62% have SAPs. On univariate analysis, history of prior SE and male gender increased likelihood of SAP. On logistic regression, Nagelkerke R2 was 0.204 and our model correctly predicted 82% of patients with SAPs. 83% of parents were interested in a SAP mobile application. There are currently 40 mobile applications available for epilepsy management, but only 15% of respondents reported using them. ConclusionsThere is a need to increase the percentage of patients with epilepsy with SAPs, particularly in those at greater risk of SE. Most parents would find a SAP mobile application valuable in their child’s epilepsy management. There is a gap between the high parental interest in mobile applications for epilepsy management and their current use of such applications.

BoostMeUp

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in mobile applications and devices for emotion regulation. Examples include biofeedback devices and mobile applications that help users manage their stress [1][2]. These technologies are often designed to help users reflect on their past or current emotions or prompt users to perform specific tasks (e.g., deep breathing exercises). Despite the utility of these solutions, users are often unable to use them while performing certain tasks, such as during a job interview or public speech, since the technologies often require users to shift their attention away.

A systematic review into the assessment of medical apps: motivations, challenges, recommendations and methodological aspect

Recent years have shown significantly pervasive interest in mobile applications (hereinafter “apps”). The number and popularity of these apps are dramatically increasing. Even though mobile apps are diverse, countless ones are available through many platforms. Some of these apps are not useful nor do they possess rich content, which benefits end users as expected, especially in medical-related cases. This research aims to review and analyze articles associated with medical app assessment across different platforms. This research also aimed to provide the best practices and identify the academic challenges, motivations and recommendations related with quality assessments. In addition, a methodological approach followed in previous research in this domain was also discussed to give some insights for future comers with what to expect. We systematically searched articles on topics related to medical app assessment. The search was conducted on five major databases, namely, Science Direct, Springer, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore and PubMed from 2009 to September 2019. These indices were considered sufficiently extensive and reliable to cover our scope of the literature. Articles were selected on the basis of our inclusion and exclusion criteria (n = 72). Medical app assessment is considered a major topic which warrants attention. This study emphasizes the current standpoint and opportunities for research in this area and boosts additional efforts towards the understanding of this research field.

Vaccination apps: a missing opportunity from various perspectives?

Abstract Introduction Apps for vaccination are rarely a topic in scientific literature, despite the growth of interest in mobile applications about physical exercise, food intake and even chronic diseases management. Since 2014 WHO is wishing and technically supporting the development of a pan-European vaccination app to overcome the trending vaccine hesitancy, and instituted this year a Department of Digital Health. This research aims to evaluate apps for general population, and parents in particular. Methods We looked for apps from Google Play Store, the official Android store, searching single words related to vaccination with an Italian IP address, then exporting results. The research provided 1086 univocal apps that underwent a selection based on title, marketplace description and website if available, and further classified by category and other variables. Results The 117 selected apps were downloaded 15 million times in total. The most common category is vaccination reminder and recorder (41% of apps with 2.4 mln downloads - DL), alone or as a part of a broad health manager, mostly designed for parents. The second one is medical education apps (35%, 343k DL) most of which in English and designed for healthcare professionals, then games (10.3% of apps but the most downloaded with 12 mln DL), appointment makers (7.7%, 122k DL) powered by Regional Healthcare Service, and vaccination travel managers (6%, 13k DL). Only 26.5% provided both description and app content in Italian. Conclusions While literature states reminding apps may be a helpful resource to ease the completion of vaccinal duty, the n° of downloads shows a lack of interest or expose flaws in their features (e.g. absence of translation). This study also displays offer fragmentation regarding these new technological opportunities to raise vaccination awareness among peoples: neither a single Italian app is provided by the Ministry, nor a pan-European app by E.U., making WHO’s wishes even more actual today. Key messages Vaccination reminder apps are a helpful but under-utilized tool for parents, maybe due to offer fragmentation, lack of translation and need of country adaptations. The creation of a centralized information service for mobile users is a challenge for European Digital Health in times of trending vaccine hesitancy.

Content Analysis and User Characteristics of a Smartphone-Based Online Support Group for People Living with HIV.

Although there is growing interest in mobile applications and online support groups to enhance chronic disease self-management, little is known about their potential impact for people living with HIV (PLWH). We developed an innovative online support group delivered through a community message board (CMB) within a clinic-affiliated smartphone application Positive Links (PL). We analyzed characteristics of posters and nonposters to the CMB and evaluated content posted to the CMB. For this study, 38 HIV-infected patients received cell phones with the PL application that included the opportunity to interact with other users on a CMB. Logistic regressions investigated associations between participant characteristics and posting. CMB messages were downloaded and analyzed qualitatively. 24 participants posted to the CMB; 14 did not. Participants had lower odds of posting if they were white (p = 0.028) and had private insurance (p = 0.003). Participants had higher odds of posting if they had unsuppressed viral loads (p = 0.034). Of the 840 CMB messages over 8 months, 62% had psychosocial content, followed by community chat (29%), and biomedical content (10%). Psychosocial content was most prevalent on this CMB, in contrast to other online forums dominated by informational content. Participants who posted expressed support for each other, appreciation for the community, and a perception that the app played a positive role in their HIV self-management. This CMB on a clinic-affiliated mobile application may reach vulnerable populations, including racial/ethnic minorities and those of lower socioeconomic status, and provide psychosocial support to PLWH.

Factors associated with medication adherence among heart failure patients and their caregivers.

Reducing the rate of rehospitalization among heart failure patients is a major public health challenge; medication non-adherence is a crucial factor shown to trigger rehospitalizations. Objective: To collect pilot data to inform the design of educational interventions targeted to heart failure patients and their caregivers to improve medication adherence. Heart failure patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator and their family caregivers were recruited from an outpatient electrophysiology clinic at an urban university medical center (N = 10 caregiver and patient dyads, 70% race/ethnic minority, mean patient age = 63 years). Quantitative and qualitative research methods were utilized. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted to assess patients' and caregivers' individual interest in, and access to, new medication adherence technologies. Patient adherence to medications, medication self-efficacy, and depression were assessed by validated questionnaires. Medication adherence and hospitalization rates were assessed among patients at 30-days post-clinic visit by mailed survey. At baseline, 60% of patients reported sometimes forgetting to take their medications. The most common factors associated with non-adherence included forgetfulness (50%), having other medications to take (20%), and being symptom-free (20%). At 30-day follow-up, half of patients reported non-adherence to their medications, and 1 in 10 reported being hospitalized within the past month. Dyads reported widespread access to technology, with the majority of dyads showing interest in mobile applications and text messaging. There was less acceptance of medication-dispensing technologies; caregivers and patients were concerned about added burden. The majority of etiologies of medication non-adherence were subject to intervention. Enthusiasm from patients and caregivers in new technologies to aid in adherence was tempered by potential burden, and should be considered when designing interventions to promote adherence.

Metadata Correction: Smartphone Ownership and Interest in Mobile Applications to Monitor Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions

Metadata Correction: Smartphone Ownership and Interest in Mobile Applications to Monitor Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions

Smartphone ownership and interest in mobile applications to monitor symptoms of mental health conditions.

BackgroundPatient retrospective recollection is a mainstay of assessing symptoms in mental health and psychiatry. However, evidence suggests that these retrospective recollections may not be as accurate as data collection though the experience sampling method (ESM), which captures patient data in “real time” and “real life.” However, the difficulties in practical implementation of ESM data collection have limited its impact in psychiatry and mental health. Smartphones with the capability to run mobile applications may offer a novel method of collecting ESM data that may represent a practical and feasible tool for mental health and psychiatry.ObjectiveThis paper aims to provide data on psychiatric patients’ prevalence of smartphone ownership, patterns of use, and interest in utilizing mobile applications to monitor their mental health conditions.MethodsOne hundred psychiatric outpatients at a large urban teaching hospital completed a paper-and-pencil survey regarding smartphone ownership, use, and interest in utilizing mobile applications to monitor their mental health condition.ResultsNinety-seven percent of patients reported owning a phone and 72% reported that their phone was a smartphone. Patients in all age groups indicated greater than 50% interest in using a mobile application on a daily basis to monitor their mental health condition.ConclusionsSmartphone and mobile applications represent a practical opportunity to explore new modalities of monitoring, treatment, and research of psychiatric and mental health conditions.

Mindfulness-based mobile applications: literature review and analysis of current features.

BackgroundInterest in mindfulness has increased exponentially, particularly in the fields of psychology and medicine. The trait or state of mindfulness is significantly related to several indicators of psychological health, and mindfulness-based therapies are effective at preventing and treating many chronic diseases. Interest in mobile applications for health promotion and disease self-management is also growing. Despite the explosion of interest, research on both the design and potential uses of mindfulness-based mobile applications (MBMAs) is scarce.ObjectiveOur main objective was to study the features and functionalities of current MBMAs and compare them to current evidence-based literature in the health and clinical setting.MethodsWe searched online vendor markets, scientific journal databases, and grey literature related to MBMAs. We included mobile applications that featured a mindfulness-based component related to training or daily practice of mindfulness techniques. We excluded opinion-based articles from the literature.ResultsThe literature search resulted in 11 eligible matches, two of which completely met our selection criteria–a pilot study designed to evaluate the feasibility of a MBMA to train the practice of “walking meditation,” and an exploratory study of an application consisting of mood reporting scales and mindfulness-based mobile therapies. The online market search eventually analyzed 50 available MBMAs. Of these, 8% (4/50) did not work, thus we only gathered information about language, downloads, or prices. The most common operating system was Android. Of the analyzed apps, 30% (15/50) have both a free and paid version. MBMAs were devoted to daily meditation practice (27/46, 59%), mindfulness training (6/46, 13%), assessments or tests (5/46, 11%), attention focus (4/46, 9%), and mixed objectives (4/46, 9%). We found 108 different resources, of which the most used were reminders, alarms, or bells (21/108, 19.4%), statistics tools (17/108, 15.7%), audio tracks (15/108, 13.9%), and educational texts (11/108, 10.2%). Daily, weekly, monthly statistics, or reports were provided by 37% (17/46) of the apps. 28% (13/46) of them permitted access to a social network. No information about sensors was available. The analyzed applications seemed not to use any external sensor. English was the only language of 78% (39/50) of the apps, and only 8% (4/50) provided information in Spanish. 20% (9/46) of the apps have interfaces that are difficult to use. No specific apps exist for professionals or, at least, for both profiles (users and professionals). We did not find any evaluations of health outcomes resulting from the use of MBMAs.ConclusionsWhile a wide selection of MBMAs seem to be available to interested people, this study still shows an almost complete lack of evidence supporting the usefulness of those applications. We found no randomized clinical trials evaluating the impact of these applications on mindfulness training or health indicators, and the potential for mobile mindfulness applications remains largely unexplored.

Eye safety for scanning laser projection systems

In the growing field of pico-projectors, laser-based scanning systems may be advantageous over DLP- or LCoS-based imagers due to their potential for miniaturization, enhanced optical efficiency and cost reduction. The high energy density of a combined laser beam can, however, be hazardous to the human eye. Laser projection systems must therefore be identified with the laser class, depending on their maximum optical output power. This power limits the brightness of the displayed image, which is of particular interest for mobile applications. Various approaches to classifying laser devices by their wavelength and output power are described within the standards for laser safety. It is found that actual safety regulations cannot be directly applied to scanning systems. A detailed analysis of the optical conditions in terms of a two-dimensional extended light source is appropriate for the consideration of laser scanner devices. In this article, alternative ways of applying laser standards for scanning systems are discussed. The dependencies of maximum luminous flux from scanning system parameters are reviewed. It is shown that the evaluation of retinal light exposure in terms of existing laser regulations leads to an overestimation of the hazardous potential. Advanced investigations are proposed to support the definition of suitable criteria for the classification of laser scanning projectors.