User Priorities Research Articles

The Persistence of Broadband User Behavior: Implications for Universal Service and Competition Policy

In several markets, firms compete not for consumer expenditure but consumer attention. We examine user priorities over the allocation of their time, and interpret that behavior in light of policy discussions over universal service, data caps, and related policy topics, such as merger analysis. Specifically, we use extensive microdata on user online choice to characterize the demand for the services offered online, which drives a household’s supply of attention. Our data cover a period of time that saw the introduction of many new and notable sites and new devices on which to access them. In our analysis, we assess “how” households supply their attention along various dimensions, such as their concentration of attention across the universe of sites and the amount of attention expenditure per domain visit. Remarkably, we find no change in “how” households allocated their attention despite drastically changing where they allocated it. Moreover, conditional on total attention expenditure, demographics entirely fail to predict our key measures of attention allocation decisions. We highlight several important implications, for policy and beyond, stemming from the persistence and demographic orthogonality of our novel attention measures.

The persistence of broadband user behavior: Implications for universal service and competition policy

In several markets, firms compete not for consumer expenditure but consumer attention. We examine user priorities over the allocation of their time, and interpret that behavior in light of policy discussions over universal service, data caps, and related policy topics, such as merger analysis. Specifically, we use extensive microdata on user online choice to characterize the demand for the services offered online, which drives a household's supply of attention. Our data cover a period of time that saw the introduction of many new and notable sites and new devices on which to access them. In our analysis, we assess “how” households supply their attention along various dimensions, such as their concentration of attention across the universe of sites and the amount of attention expenditure per domain visit. Remarkably, we find no change in “how” households allocated their attention despite drastically changing where they allocated it. Moreover, conditional on total attention expenditure, demographics entirely fail to predict our key measures of attention allocation decisions. We highlight several important implications, for policy and beyond, stemming from the persistence and demographic orthogonality of our novel attention measures.

Exploring Perceptions of Continuity of Care Among People With Long-Term Mental Disorders in Denmark.

Continuity of mental health care is central to improve the treatment and rehabilitation of people with mental disorders. While most studies on continuity of care fail to take the perspectives of service users into account, the aim of this study was to explore the perceived meanings of continuity of care among people with long-term mental disorders. Fifteen service users participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. We used template analysis to guide the analysis. The main transversal themes of continuity were "Navigating the system" and "Connecting to people and everyday life." While the first theme related to the participants' experiences of their interaction with the mental health care system, the latter related to their hopes and perceived opportunities for a good life as desired outcomes of mental health care. We conclude that efforts to improve continuity of mental health care should be tailored to the priorities of service users.

On Dynamic Spectrum Allocation in Geo-Location Spectrum Sharing Systems

Spectrum sharing is a key technology to relieve the ever-increasing spectrum demand and realize the full potential of radio spectrum. In this paper, we study spectrum sharing between higher priority users and lower priority users under geo-location based spectrum sharing systems. We consider a dynamic spectrum allocation scheme that allocates spectrum to a higher priority user based on its spectrum need that can be determined by its traffic load. The lower priority users utilize the unallocated spectrum. In addition to studying the performance of higher priority users with this dynamic spectrum allocation scheme, we also investigate the impact of this scheme on spectrum availability and stability of lower priority users. We develop a mathematical model to analyze the performance. The simulation results indicate that spectrum sharing is efficient, and the spectrum is abundant and relatively stable to lower priority users, even when the system is moderately loaded with higher priority users.

An optimized general target channel sequence for prioritized cognitive radio networks

Cognitive radio networks serve different secondary user applications which have distinct delay requirements. In order to better support the delay-sensitive applications, we consider secondary user traffic to be classified into M prioritized classes based on delay requirements. The priority of a secondary user increases within the same class after each interruption to reduce the cumulative handoff delay. A mixed preemptive/non-preemptive resume priority M/G/1 queueing model is assumed to analyze multiple spectrum handoffs. Closed form expressions are derived for both the extended data delivery time and dropping probability for each secondary user class. The analysis assumes a general target channel sequence, where a secondary user can select either to stay at his current channel or change it after each interruption. This general target channel sequence is optimized using a genetic algorithm in order to minimize the average extended data delivery time of all secondary user classes. Numerical results show that the proposed interruption-based priority mechanism outperforms the existing priority mechanisms in terms of average handoff delay and extended data delivery time in case of changing the target channel while preserves the extended data delivery time in case of always stay. Moreover, the optimized general target channel sequence gives better performance compared to the target channel sequences mentioned in the IEEE 802.22 wireless regional area networks standard for different network cases.

Generalized one-tailed hypergeometric test with applications in statistical quality control

In this article, we propose the generalized one-tailed hypergeometric test with fuzzy hypotheses for both test methods: significance testing (by controlling the type I error) and hypothesis testing (by controlling both error types). With regard to the fuzzy set theory, this test is the generalization of the conventional hypergeometric test for a proportion and provides an additional gradual consideration of the indifference zone in compliance with expert opinion or user priorities. Further, a practical application for one of the most promising resulting test types (right-tailed hypothesis testing) is carried out in statistical quality control. In particular, single sampling plans for attributes are determined via an algorithm based on the Fibonacci sequence. In addition, a parametric sensitivity analysis of calculated sampling plans is carried out in relation to changes of the lot size, consumer’s and producer’s risks, as well as of specified target values of quality levels. Moreover, the impact of various shapes of membership functions (piecewise linear, convex, concave, and s-shaped) is investigated by comparing respective sampling plans.

Generalized Disease Prediction based on Symptoms

We are right now facing a daily reality where mobile utilization is developing exponentially. Mobile technology is omnipresent. It offers services that is customized to us � the 21st century user. Innovation has empowered us incredibly, we look for data anyplace and anytime. Digital health is acquainting new methodologies with the administration of health conditions. Research has exhibited noteworthy development in the effect that digital health is having on patients and overall healthcare. The selection of digital health tools, such as mobile healthcare apps, holds incredible guarantee with proof of these tools playing a positive role in both patient results and the expenses. Portable applications can enable patients to be effectively associated with each phase of their healthcare venture. This fundamentally enhances patient commitment and the patient experience, and urges purchasers to be responsible for their own health. Portable apps can tailor health content as indicated by the patients, or healthcare providers, mobile history and current conduct. These customized mobile experiences help convey highly pertinent information at the right time, based on user priority.

Performance Analysis of Bandwidth Allocation Based on Dynamic User Priority for Indoor Visible Light Communication Ultra-Dense Networks

Focusing on the high user density in visible light communication ultra-dense networks (VLC-UDNs), this paper proposes a resource allocation method based on dynamic user priority (DUP). Firstly, this paper establishes the DUP model, which realizes a multi-dimensional measurement for differences of users. Considering the variety of network environments, we dynamically select multiple features of users and achieve the calculation of DUP by fuzzy logic (FL). Secondly, the throughput-maximizing resource allocation (TMRA) scheme with user priority guarantee is proposed. Thirdly, the lower bound of the proposed DUP-TMRA is derived. Simulation results show that the proposed multi-dimensional DUP model outperforms the conventional one-dimensional DUP model and fixed priority model. In addition, the proposed TMRA scheme outperforms the conventional proportion allocation scheme. Finally, in comparisons of system throughput, the proposed DUP-TMRA achieves 4% performance improvement against the conventional required data rate proportion allocation (RPA) method. In comparisons of fairness, DUP achieves the modest performance. In comparisons of satisfaction, when the average blocking probability is higher than 0.45, the proposed DUP-TMRA improves the proportion of satisfied users against the conventional RPA method by up to 17.5%.

Prioritised and selective power control in cellular wireless networks

Power control is used in cellular communications systems to reduce power consumption and satisfy as many users as possible by managing the mutual interference between users. In signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) tracking power control (TPC) schemes, all users are required to adjust their power levels for each iteration, which is inefficient. In this study, a prioritised and selective uplink power control scheme is proposed. Priority user requirements are satisfied first, and then as many normal users (NUs) as possible are satisfied with their target SINRs. In addition, if an NU is currently satisfied with its target SINR, it is not required to update its transmit power level. Conversely, NUs who are not satisfied update their power levels. Simulation results are presented, which show that the proposed scheme outperforms dynamic target SINR TPC and variable target SINR TPC in terms of power consumption and efficiency. In addition, the proposed scheme is better than target SINR TPC and opportunistic power control as the number of users increases.

Fuzzy hypothesis testing for a population proportion based on set-valued information

In this paper we propose fuzzy hypothesis testing for a proportion with crisp data as the exact generalized one-tailed hypergeometric test with fuzzy (non-)complementary hypotheses, and incorporate the conventional hypergeometric test with crisp hypotheses into its framework. In particular, we formulate hypotheses as ontic or epistemic (fuzzy) sets, since we assume that presumptions regarding the true population proportion can be expressed in the conjunctive or disjunctive reading. Further, we suggest modeling of membership functions in terms of cost or frequency due to considerations of user's priorities or incomplete knowledge in relation to hypotheses formulation. Considering a hypothesis as union of its crisp and fuzzy areas, we illustrate via real-life examples that in contrast to classical test theory, fuzzy hypothesis testing provides an additional partial and gradual consideration of the indifference zone for both complementary and non-complementary hypotheses. The test concept is introduced for both test methods, a test of significance and an alternative test, and leads to a crisp test decision considering further cost aspects like the sample size. The generalized error criteria are derived and interpreted in relation to both hypotheses. Additionally, a corresponding sensitivity analysis is presented for one of the most promising test types.

A Framework for User Priority Guidance Based Scheduling for Load Balancing in Cloud Computing

A Framework for User Priority Guidance Based Scheduling for Load Balancing in Cloud Computing

A WLAN triage testbed based on fuzzy logic and its performance evaluation for different number of clients and throughput parameter

Many devices communicate over Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). The IEEE 802.11e standard for WLANs is an important extension of the IEEE 802.11 standard focusing on Quality of Service (QoS) that works with any PHY implementation. The IEEE 802.11e standard introduces Enhanced Distributed Channel Access (EDCA) and HCF Controlled Channel Access (HCCA). Both these schemes are useful for QoS provisioning to support delay-sensitive voice and video applications. EDCF uses the contention window to differentiate high-priority and low-priority services. However, it does not consider the priority of users. In this paper, in order to deal with this problem, we propose a Fuzzy-based Admission Control System (FACS). We implemented a triage testbed using FACS and carried out an experiment. The experimental results show that the number of connected clients is increased during Avoid phase, but does not change during Monitoring phase. The experimental results show that the implemented testbed performs better than conventional WLAN.

A WLAN triage testbed based on fuzzy logic and its performance evaluation for different number of clients and throughput parameter

Many devices communicate over Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). The IEEE 802.11e standard for WLANs is an important extension of the IEEE 802.11 standard focusing on Quality of Service (QoS) that works with any PHY implementation. The IEEE 802.11e standard introduces Enhanced Distributed Channel Access (EDCA) and HCF Controlled Channel Access (HCCA). Both these schemes are useful for QoS provisioning to support delay-sensitive voice and video applications. EDCF uses the contention window to differentiate high-priority and low-priority services. However, it does not consider the priority of users. In this paper, in order to deal with this problem, we propose a Fuzzy-based Admission Control System (FACS). We implemented a triage testbed using FACS and carried out an experiment. The experimental results show that the number of connected clients is increased during Avoid phase, but does not change during Monitoring phase. The experimental results show that the implemented testbed performs better than conventional WLAN.

Resource Allocation in Moving and Fixed General Authorized Access Users in Spectrum Access System

Spectrum access system (SAS) is a spectrum sharing framework proposed to share the spectrum between the incumbent users and the citizen broadband radio service devices, i.e. Priority access users and general authorized access (GAA) users. In this paper, we propose an interfering angle based method for the joint resource (channel and transmit power) allocation problem to the mobile and fixed GAA users. With mobile GAA users, the set of GAA users that can hear each other will change at different time instants making the resource allocation problem more challenging. The resource allocation of fixed and mobile GAA users is done considering coexistence with priority users, as well as coexistence between mobile and fixed GAA users. For the conflict-free resource allocation to fixed and mobile GAA users, we propose to use the maximum allowed transmit power for the beams of fixed GAA users that lie within the interference range of mobile GAA users. The simulation results show improved capacity from our proposed method while satisfying a predetermined interference constraint.

Beyond HIV prevention: everyday life priorities and demand for PrEP among Ugandan HIV serodiscordant couples.

IntroductionPre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection is being rolled out in Africa. The uptake of PrEP to date has varied across populations and locations. We seek to understand the drivers of demand for PrEP through analysis of qualitative data collected in conjunction with a PrEP demonstration project involving East African HIV serodiscordant couples. Our goal was to inform demand creation by understanding what PrEP means – beyond HIV prevention – for the lives of users.MethodsThe Partners Demonstration Project evaluated an integrated strategy of PrEP and antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery in which time‐limited PrEP served as a “bridge” to long‐term ART. Uninfected partners in HIV serodiscordant couples were offered PrEP at baseline and encouraged to discontinue once infected partners had taken ART for six months. We conducted 274 open‐ended interviews with 93 couples at two Ugandan research sites. Interviews took place one month after enrolment and at later points in the follow‐up period. Topics included are as follows: (1) discovery of serodiscordance; (2) decisions to accept/decline PrEP and/or ART; (3) PrEP and ART initiation; (4) experiences of using PrEP and ART; (5) PrEP discontinuation; (6) impact of PrEP and ART on the partnered relationship. Interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed. We used an inductive, content analytic approach to characterize meanings of PrEP stemming from its effectiveness for HIV prevention. Relevant content was represented as descriptive categories.ResultsDiscovery of HIV serodiscordance resulted in fear of HIV transmission for couples, which led to loss of sexual intimacy in committed relationships, and to abandonment of plans for children. As a result, partners became alienated from each other. PrEP countered the threat to the relationship by reducing fear and reinstating hopes of having children together. Condom use worked against the re‐establishment of intimacy and closeness. By increasing couples’ sense of protection against HIV infection and raising the prospect of a return to “live sex” (sex without condoms), PrEP was perceived by couples as solving the problem of serodiscordance and preserving committed relationships.ConclusionsThe most effective demand creation strategies for PrEP may be those that address the everyday life priorities of potential users in addition to HIV prevention.Clinical Trial NumberNCT02775929

Spectrum Sharing With Network Coding for Multiple Cognitive Users

In this paper, an intelligently cooperative communication network with cognitive users is considered, where in a primary system and a secondary system, respectively, a message is communicated to their respective receiver over a packet-based wireless link. The secondary system assists in the transmission of the primary message employing network coding, on the condition of maintaining or improving the primary performance, and is granted limited access to the transmission resources as a reward. The users in both systems exploit their previously received information in encoding and decoding the binary combined packets. Considering the priority of legitimate users, a selective cooperation mechanism is investigated and the system performance based on an optimization problem is analyzed. Both the analytical and numerical results show that the condition for the secondary system accessing the licensed spectrum resource is when the relay link performs better than the direct link of the primary transmission. We also extend the system model into a network with multiple secondary users and propose two relay selection algorithms. Jointly considering the related link qualities, a best relay selection and a best relay group selection algorithm are discussed. Overall, it is found that the throughput performance can be improved with multiple secondary users, especially with more potential users cooperating in the best relay group selection algorithm.

Bat pack algorithm for dynamic resource allocation in OFDMA systems

Orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) is one of the most popular access schemes adopted in recent wireless systems including, but not limited to, 4G-LTE. Consequently, OFDMA resource allocation raises as one of the key research topics since the capacity and quality of service depend on optimising the usage of the available resources. Resource allocation of OFDMA systems relies on power and subcarrier allocations of each user for different operational scenarios and channel conditions. In this paper, we propose and implement bat pack algorithm (BPA) to find the optimal, or near optimal, power and subcarrier allocations for OFDMA systems. The proposed algorithm considers power and subcarrier allocation constrains, channel and noise distributions, distance between user equipment and base station, user priority weight. Four cases are addressed, simulated, and analysed employing the BPA algorithm under specific operational scenarios to meet the standard specifications of current communication systems.

Load-Aware Energy Efficiency With Unequal User Priority in Downlink Heterogeneous Network System

Load-Aware Energy Efficiency With Unequal User Priority in Downlink Heterogeneous Network System

Personal Channel on YouTube: Aspects of Monitoring

The article analyzes the main functions of monitoring YouTube video hosting, in particular, the authors’ experience of video hosting for educational purposes. The authors focused on studying the principles of creating and maintaining their own YouTube channel, optimizing content search, building high-quality models of playlists. It is noted that when designing your own YouTube channel, it must be understood that this innovative product is based on dynamic content modification and should take into account the needs of the end user. The present research analyzes the toolbars that control the content of the channel on the YouTube video hosts, namely, Creative Studio and New Creative Studio (Beta), which are distinguished by graphic design and functional specifications that provide the ability to adapt to a particular user. The present research studies video identifiers on YouTube, which make it possible to monitor video resources by various features: novelty (publication time), number of views, user priorities. The authors paid special attention to the system of internal identification of videos on the YouTube channel, represented by the following identifiers: unique alphanumeric combinations, which are additionally used to integrate YouTube services into others. From a technical point of view, it significantly simplifies the grouping of content, exact search and eliminates falsification. Attention is drawn to copyright infringement issues on YouTube and possible ways to avoid them. It is noted that any attempt to use fragments from other sources, as is generally the case with popular contemporary musical and feature films, may lead to blocking your own YouTube channel. One way to avoid blocking someone else’s video content is by monetization policy, which involves distributing revenue from advertising between YouTube and the owner. The authors concluded that the use of video content, in particular for educational purposes, is a promising direction for further research and requires a more detailed study for practical application.

PROSTHETIC LIMB USER EXPERIENCES WITH CROSSOVER FEET: A FOCUS GROUP STUDY TO EXPLORE OUTCOMES THAT MATTER

INTRODUCTION
 A variety of prosthetic feet are available to meet the diverse needs of people with lower limb amputation. Outcome measures selected to assess comparative effectiveness of prosthetic feet are most often chosen by clinicians and researchers.1 Therefore, these measures may not reflect the outcomes that are most important to lower limb prosthesis users. Qualitative research can give voice to prosthesis users and promote the consideration of user priorities when selecting outcome measures for clinical assessment and research studies. This study explored the lived experience and outcomes of importance to individuals who have worn both traditional energy storing feet and crossover feet.
 Abstract PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/32042/24456
 How to cite: McDonald C.L, Cheever S.M , Morgan S.J., Hafner B.J. PROSTHETIC LIMB USER EXPERIENCES WITH CROSSOVER FEET: A FOCUS GROUP STUDY TO EXPLORE OUTCOMES THAT MATTER. CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL, VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2, 2018; ABSTRACT, ORAL PRESENTATION AT THE AOPA’S 101ST NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, SEPT. 26-29, VANCOUVER, CANADA, 2018. DOI: https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v1i2.32042 
 Abstracts were Peer-reviewed by the American Orthotic Prosthetic Association (AOPA) 101st National Assembly Scientific Committee. 
 http://www.aopanet.org/