Characteristics Of Users Research Articles

Unlocking Trends: Socio-Demographic Insights into Bike Sharing from the 2017 National Household Travel Survey

The implementation of bike-sharing systems represents a novel strategy aimed at enhancing urban mobility by offering shared bicycle services to improve accessibility and user convenience. Nevertheless, there has been a limited exploration into the user demographics of bike-sharing programs on a national scale. This study investigates the socio-demographic characteristics of bike-sharing system users, leveraging the 2017 National Household Travel Survey and negative binomial regression models. It finds that bike-sharing usage is more common among users than non-users, with African American and Hispanic individuals using the system more than other racial groups. Furthermore, low-income individuals (<USD 15,000) and residents of high-density areas (≥25,000 per square mile) show a higher tendency towards bike sharing. The research highlights the lack of national-level studies on bike-sharing user demographics and suggests that future policy and planning should address the needs of specific populations, aiming to enhance urban mobility and accessibility through bike-sharing services.

Animal models with characteristics of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea: current applications and future perspectives.

Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) is a common intestinal condition that significantly impacts work efficiency and quality of life. The use of animal models is crucial for delving into the pathophysiology of IBS-D and exploring therapeutic options. However, a wide variety of animal models for IBS-D has been used in previous studies, posing a considerable challenge for researchers in selecting a suitable model. In this review, using the Web of Science database, we searched IBS-D-related research spanning from 2014 to 2023; described the differences in animal strains and modeling methods among various IBS-D features recapitulating models; summarized the frequency of model usage, pathogenesis, and pathological characteristics of these models; and discussed their current applications, limitations, and future perspectives. The objective is to offer theoretical guidance for future researchers, aiding them in choosing suitable animal models based on their experimental designs.

445nm Blue Laser for Cricopharyngeal Myotomy/Zenker's Diverticulotomy: Proof of Concept and Use.

Treatment for Zenker's diverticulum and cricopharyngeal dysfunction has evolved to include flexible endoscopic approaches. Currently, no flexible modalities combine the precision cutting of CO2 laser and the hemostasis of knife electrocautery. We present the first series describing fiber-based 445nm blue light (BL) laser for endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy/Zenker's diverticulotomy. We describe usage characteristics and laser parameters with rigid esophagoscopy to determine the feasibility of use with flexible endoscopy. Retrospective review and literature review. The first nine cases of endoscopic diverticulotomy (n = 5) and cricopharyngeal myotomy (n = 4) with BL were reviewed. Rigid exposure was achieved with the Dohlman Slimline diverticuloscope. Mean age was 75.6 years. Average diverticulum depth was 0.89 cm ±1.0 cm. Pulsed mode was used in seven cases with mean of 6.86 W, 54 ms pulse on, and 286 ms pulse pause and overall mean of 6.00 W and 405 J. Complete myotomy with intact buccopharyngeal fascia and without bleeding limiting view was achieved in all patients. One of two patients in whom continuous wave setting was used developed subcutaneous emphysema following vigorous cough on POD0; this resolved after 7 days nothing per oral (NPO). Eight patients were started on oral intake without evidence for leak. Pulsed mode with fiber-to-tissue contact provided effective muscle cutting without disruption of buccopharyngeal fascia. Literature review yielded three articles examining flexible approach with laser for Zenker's and none with BL. BL provides safe and effective fiber-based cutting and hemostasis in endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy/Zenker's diverticulotomy. Future use in flexible endoscopic approaches appears feasible, though continuous wave should be avoided. 4 Laryngoscope, 134:4620-4624, 2024.

Exploring usage pattern variation of free-floating bike-sharing from a night travel perspective

Free-floating bike sharing (FFBS) attracts increasing research focusing on usage patterns, determining factors, and integrated transportation. However, existing researchers tend to overlook the variation in usage characteristics over various time ranges, particularly the usage pattern at night. This paper is conducted to fill the gap through a series of analysis approaches on FFSB in Beijing. The characteristics of the usage pattern, including time-varying usage and traveling distance distributions, are initially illustrated. Subsequently, the spatial patterns of FFBS are visualized and thoroughly analyzed in different time ranges and origin-destination (O-D) flows. A statistical model evaluating the environmental effects of FFBS trips revealed the source of FFBS usage. In addition to focusing on the nighttime, the usage patterns varying day and night are compared through the analysis. The findings explain the usage pattern variation and the unique pattern at night, providing valuable insight for improving the management of the FFBS system.

Patterns of Pregabalin Users from Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities: Results from the French OPPIDUM Program from 2008 to 2022.

In recent years, pregabalin has received growing attention due to its abuse liability. The aim of this study was to further characterize patterns of pregabalin users from substance abuse treatment facilities and detect changes in users profile over the study period. The data source was the Observation des Produits Psychotropes Illicites ou Détournés de leur Utilisation Médicamenteuse (OPPIDUM) program, an annual, repeated, cross-sectional, nationwide, multicenter survey that collects consumption data from patients with substance use disorders. First, we described the characteristics of pregabalin users and their consumption patterns. We compared these data between 2008 and 2018 (P1) and 2019 and 2022 (P2). Second, we conducted a multiple correspondence analysis to identify profiles of users. From 2008 to 2022, 291 pregabalin users (0.37% of all users) from 116 substance abuse treatment facilities were identified. The number of pregabalin users was lower than 15 per year in P1 (n = 89) and between 40 and 60 per year in P2 (n = 202). The number of users who reported pregabalin as the first substance leading to dependence increased significantly in P2 compared with P1 (p < 0.005). When comparing P2 with P1, there was a significant increase in precarity (p < 0.001), users in prison (p = 0.002), withdrawal symptoms (p < 0.001), dependence (p < 0.001), use of higher dose of pregabalin (p = 0.029), and acquisition by deal/street market (p < 0.001). The multiple correspondence analysis allowed for the identification of distinct profiles of pregabalin users: (i) a cluster with mainly users from P1, who presented a simple use of pregabalin, and were older (> 45 years), were involved in opioid agonist treatment (OAT), and obtained pregabalin legally; and (ii) a cluster with mainly users from P2, who presented pregabalin dependence, and were younger (< 26 years), reported pregabalin as the first substance leading to dependence, used doses higher than the market authorization, were in severe precarity, and were in prison. These data showed that the profile of pregabalin users has changed in the last years. Pregabalin use disorders also affect users without history of addiction.

Implementing a free lending of sports and leisure equipment service: a cross-sectional survey exploring user characteristics, utilization patterns, and significance among children and youth

BackgroundThe escalating costs of sports equipment, coupled with socioeconomic disparities, hinder children’s participation in physical activities. The Leisure Equipment Library (LEL), a unique service in Sweden, addresses this challenge by providing free equipment lending. This study investigated the significance of providing free lending of sports and recreational equipment for children’s and youth’s opportunities to engage in physical activities during leisure time.MethodUtilizing a cross-sectional survey during the summer-2022 period, the study is based on data from 427 LEL users aged 7 to 25 years. User characteristics (demography, socioeconomic status, physical activity profiles), equipment usage patterns and perceived significance are also analyzed. The findings are discussed using the concept of consumer-brand identification.ResultsThe results showed that LEL reaches a broad and diverse group of children and young people in terms of gender, age, socioeconomic status, and physical activity profile. The borrowed equipment, primarily used for play and recreation, serves as an essential resource for children and youths and, in particular, for those with low socioeconomic status. LEL is considered highly important by all user groups, with a majority emphasizing its significance in facilitating leisure activities.ConclusionsThe study suggests LEL’s success lies in its accessibility and that users identify with the brand of LEL. Users perceive LEL as a service catering to various recreational needs rather than sports, fostering inclusivity. The localization of stores in various types of areas, combined with high-quality products, enable children and young people from different socioeconomic areas to use the service. LEL’s success hinges on maintaining a positive brand image and promoting a recreation-oriented identity. Opportunities exist to strengthen emotional bonds with users, enhance branding strategies, and position LEL as a valuable resource for inclusive recreational activities. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of free lending services, such as LEL, to bridge socioeconomic gaps in the promotion of physical activity among children and young people.

Quantitative analysis of social service space equity in urban parks in China

This study aims to quantitatively analyze the equity of social service space in urban parks in China, in order to explore the equity issues faced by different social groups in accessing urban park services. The research background focuses on the importance of urban parks as social service spaces, particularly in improving residents’ quality of life and well-being. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study examines the social service functions of urban parks, the relationship between parks and social psychology, and the theoretical framework of equity. The study employs quantitative research methods, collects data on urban park usage and resident satisfaction, and defines relevant analysis variables. The data analysis section reveals the basic characteristics of park service space usage and resident well-being index through descriptive statistical methods. Subsequently, quantitative analysis is conducted to evaluate the current status of equity in urban park service space and explore the key factors influencing equity. The study reveals a significant correlation between social psychological factors, resident well-being index, and equity in park service space. Finally, the research conclusion emphasizes the importance of improving equity in social service space in urban parks and provides specific policy recommendations. At the same time, the study acknowledges its limitations and suggests future research directions. This study provides insights for urban planners and policymakers on how to enhance equity in urban park services and offers important strategic guidance for improving overall well-being of urban residents.

Psychosocial characteristics of the general population who habitually use hypnotics: Results from a national survey on drug use among the Japanese.

The aim of this study was to examine the characteristics of habitual hypnotic users in Japan. This nationwide, cross-sectional survey used self-administered questionnaires. Data were collected from four national surveys conducted every 2 years between 2015 and 2021. The participants were Japanese individuals who had taken prescription hypnotics in the past year or had never taken them. We divided 13,396 participants into three groups to compare the social background and status of taking medication and controlled drugs, drinking, and smoking among the three groups: people who use hypnotics habitually daily (habitual hypnotic users [HUs]), people who use them only occasionally (occasional hypnotic users [OUs]), and people who do not use them (hypnotic non-users [NUs]). We compared the perception of using hypnotics between the HU and OU groups. HUs were more likely to be older, unemployed, and to habitually use anxiolytics and analgesics than NUs. The main reasons for taking anxiolytics in HUs were alleviating insomnia and reducing anxiety, whereas the main reason for taking analgesics was improving joint pain. Additionally, the HU group had a higher proportion of habitual smokers than the OU group. There was no difference in drinking status or taking of controlled drugs among the three groups. HUs were more likely to use hypnotics and to have concerns about their side-effects than OUs. HUs were more likely to be unemployed, habitually use anxiolytics and analgesics, smoke heavily, and take hypnotic drugs with concerns regarding side-effects. These results may help encourage the appropriate use of hypnotics.

Tokenizing Tangible Intentions: Unraveling the Motives to Try NFTs

ABSTRACT In recent years, the growing interest in non-fungible tokens (NFTs) has triggered substantial academic and commercial interest. NFTs, are disruptively transforming the realms of art, entertainment, and investment. Exploring the factors that drive individuals to invest in these digital collectibles is central for understanding the broader implications of this innovative financial trend. In this direction, our study investigated the user characteristics, technology characteristics, social influence the user’s intention to invest in NFTs, moderated by investor’s habits. This research extended the theory of trying by including precursors of the NFT trial attitude, such as optimism, innovativeness, discomfort, and insecurity (users); Governance considerations and extendibility (process); and digital asset ownership and indivisibility (technology) and social influence. Structural equation modeling analyzed the data collected from 278 investors through a structured questionnaire. The finding indicates that a trying attitude significantly impacted the intentions to invest in NFTs. Precursors impacting trying attitude included optimism, innovativeness, insecurity, digital asset ownership, indivisibility, and social influence. However, discomfort, Governance considerations, and extendibility were not significant. The study offered theoretical and practical implications to individual investors and the broader digital asset landscape and slated directions for future research.

A Cross-Sectional Study on the Assessment of Service Quality and User Satisfaction of a Community Support Program in a Region of Taiwan.

This study aims to assess the service quality and user satisfaction of a community support program (CSP) in a specific administrative region of Taiwan. Employing a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 450 CSP users in the region via a questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including descriptive analysis, ANOVA, and Scheffe's Test, were conducted using SPSS 22.0. The findings reveal that users aged 70-79 years with primary education, as well as those with demand or unknown demand for long-term care, reported the highest level of satisfaction with CSP services (mean = 4.5, SD = 0.7, p < 0.05). The study underscores the influence of user characteristics and their understanding of the services on satisfaction levels. These insights provide clear direction for policymakers in shaping the future of CSPs, emphasizing the importance of addressing user needs and enhancing awareness and the utilization of available services.

Does Technological Innovativeness Influence Users' Experiences With Virtual Reality Tourism?

ABSTRACTImmersive experiences offered by virtual reality (VR) have the power to impact tourists' decision‐making and on‐site experiences. However, prior research has focused on explaining VR's acceptance by tourists as a function of technological capacity, rather than user characteristics, such as innovativeness. This research intends to fill the existing knowledge gap regarding the role of technological innovativeness on VR experiences. To do so, this study examines whether individuals' technological innovativeness influences their perceptions of a VR tourism experience and, in turn, their intention to recommend the experience. The study provides a VR experience to 405 tourists at a winery. The results reveal that the tourists' technological innovativeness influences their perception of enjoyment, experience quality, and satisfaction. These findings suggest that, when developing or distributing VR content, the technological innovativeness of the audience is important to consider. The findings have theoretical and practical value, with direct implications for tourism professionals and policymakers.

A Blueprint of IR Evaluation Integrating Task and User Characteristics

Traditional search result evaluation metrics in information retrieval, such as MAP and NDCG, naively focus on topical relevance between a document and search topic and assume this relationship as mono-dimensional and often binary. They neglect document content overlap and assume gains piling up as the searcher examines the ranked list at greater length. We propose a novel search result evaluation framework based on multidimensional, graded relevance assessments, explicit modelling of document overlaps and attributes affecting document usability beyond relevance. Document relevance to a search task is seen to consist of several content themes and document usability attributes. Documents may also overlap regarding their content themes. Attributes such as document readability, trustworthiness, or language represent the entire document’s usability in the search task context, for a given searcher and her motivating task. The proposed framework evaluates the quality of a ranked search result, taking into account the contribution of each successive document, with estimated overlap across themes, and usability based on its attributes.

The predictors of objectified body consciousness among adolescents: Socıal appearance anxiety and social media use

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine the predictors of social appearance anxiety and social media addiction on objectified body consciousness among adolescents. MethodThis descriptive and cross-sectional study included 502 adolescents. The Child and Family Information Form, Social Appearance Anxiety Scale, Objectified Body Consciousness Scale-Youth Form, and Social Media Addiction Scale for Adolescents were used to collect data. Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis H test and regression analysis were used. ResultsIn the study, being female, being pleased with one's weight, and following and being influenced by influencers all increase levels of self-objectification. It was found that social media addiction, social appearance anxiety, and self-objectification all have an effect on one another. ConclusionIt was concluded that social media usage characteristics, social media addiction, social appearance anxiety affect self-objectification.

Quantifying Patient Capabilities and Setting the Stage for Future Development: Insights from a Sensor-Augmented Simulated Use Study with Pen Injectors.

While formative and summative usability testing is essential to confirm safe and effective product use, it may not be sufficient to comprehensively understand user capabilities and limitations in device interactions. Therefore, this research aims to quantify user handling forces for different device handling steps of pen injectors through sensor-augmented simulated use studies. The study involved 46 participants who were divided into two groups: a healthy control group and a group of users with dexterity impairments. All participants were instructed to perform simulated handling steps using non-functional dummy devices equipped with force and torque sensors. Each handling step was performed twice: first at what participants considered a comfortable force level and then at their maximum force. The study then analyzed force data to investigate the impact of user characteristics and device geometry on force exertion during the different handling steps. The study demonstrates differences in the perceived comfortable and maximum force levels between the control and patient groups. These force levels decrease slightly with the user's age and level of dexterity impairment. Furthermore, the forces applied by the users are dependent on the geometry of the device and the holding pattern. The results highlight the significance of sensor-augmented simulated use studies as a tool for providing quantitative insights into users' ability to exert force while handling self-injection devices. These data offer comprehensive insights that inform the definition of performance requirements and specifications for injection device design, thereby supporting the advancement of future self-injection devices.

안면인식결제가 사용자 저항과 이용의도에 미치는 영향

The modern society is undergoing tremendous changes due to technological innovation. The birth of new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and cloud computing marks the beginning of the fourth industrial revolution. Various new industries are rapidly emerging as information and communication technology (ICT), artificial intelligence, big data, and other new technologies such as the Internet of Things are combined. Fintech is a technology that is attracting attention as new technologies and the financial industry merge. The concept of Fintech was born through the convergence of financial industry and information and communication technology by governments of all countries around the world and continuous innovation. Fintech is an innovation in the financial industly that uses new technologies. Use aiiificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, the Internet of Things and other modern science and technology achievements to reform financial products, business models and business procedures. One of the most basic tasks in financial business is payment service. The development and introduction of new technologies has changed the way people pay. One of the notable fields in payment service is face recognition payment. Face recognition is being used in various fields due to its high accuracy and low invasiveness. Facial recognition payment is a technology that uses computer vision. It uses computers to mimic human vision, allowing computers to analyze images. It is a technology that implements identity authentication based on personal facial feature information. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect relationship of facial recognition payment on usage intention. For basic statistical analysis of the questionnaire, SPSS 23.0, a statistical package, was used. For hypothesis testing, concentrated validity and discriminant validity were verified using the structural equation package Smart PLS 4.0. Infmmation technology factors that dete1mine face recognition payment were divided into system characteristics and user characteristics. A summary of the study follows. First, The system characteristics of the face recognition payment service were partially adopted for user resistance. Second, the user characteristics of face recognition payment had a significant effect on user resistance. Third, user resistance had a significant effect on intention to use.

내러티브 과제 유형에 따른 초등 학령기 아동의 어휘 사용 특성

Background and Objectives: The vocabulary of an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system should reflect the AAC user’s needs and desires for successful communication. The selection of vocabulary should be based on the vocabulary used by the child’s peers. This study aimed to examine vocabulary usage characteristics of children in lower primary grades according to the type of narrative task and to select core vocabulary for use in an AAC system. Methods: We collected utterances from 20 children in lower elementary school for four narrative tasks (personal experience story, storytelling, explanation, and procedural descriptions). Characteristics of high-frequency vocabulary, core vocabulary, and word class vocabulary by task were examined. Results: Of the total number of words, the total frequency of core words was 77.28% (n = 26,400). The total number of other words was 2,677 (10.98%). The most frequent words in the core vocabulary were ‘-e(-에)’, ‘-ga(-가)’, and ‘-neun(-는)’. Conclusion: The inclusion of high-frequency words and core vocabulary in the narrative task can be used as a basis for vocabulary selection for school-aged children who use AAC systems.

The Relationship Between Training, Talent, Technological Systems, and Personality on Employee Competency: Literature Review

Employee competency is a crucial factor in organizational success. This paper explores the multifaceted relationship between four key elements that contribute to competency: training, talent, technological systems, and personality. We review existing literature on the impact of training programs on skill development and knowledge acquisition. We then examine the role of inherent talent and its influence on the learning process and ultimate competency. The paper further investigates how technological systems can both enhance and challenge employee competency, depending on their design and user characteristics. Finally, we analyze the influence of personality traits on an individual's approach to learning, technology adoption, and overall performance. Through this comprehensive review, we aim to shed light on the complex interplay between these factors and their combined effect on employee competency. This knowledge can be valuable for organizations in designing effective development programs that foster a competent and adaptable workforce.

Research on Uses and Gratifications of TikTok Users

The rapid development of the mobile Internet era has given rise to various new forms of digital entertainment. Among them, the short video platform is deeply loved by users for its relaxed, vivid, and intuitive characteristics. Among the many short video platforms, TikTok has become a leader in the trend with its innovative content presentation method, extensive user group, and good user experience. TikTok platform provides a vast platform for users to choose their favorite video types and speak freely.This study aims to deeply explore the usage characteristics and psychological motivations of TikTok users by applying the "Uses and Gratifications Theory" framework, to provide a deeper understanding of the development and user experience of the short video platform. Among them, TikTok is represented. This study analyzes the audience's usage preferences based on the "Uses and Gratifications Theory" and further studies the psychological motivations of TikTok users of different age groups through interview methods.

Users' perception of quality as a driver of private healthcare use in Mexico: Insights from the People's Voice Survey.

The Mexican government has pursued multiple initiatives to improve healthcare coverage and financial protection. Yet, out-of-pocket health spending and use of private sector providers in Mexico remains high. In this paper, we sought to describe the characteristics of public and private healthcare users, describe recent visit quality across provider types, and to assess whether perceiving the public healthcare sector as poor quality is associated with private health sector use. We analyzed the cross-sectional People's Voice Survey conducted from December 2022 to January 2023. We used Chi-square tests to compare contextual, individual, and need-for-care factors and ratings of most recent visits between users of public (social security and other public providers) and private sector providers (stand-alone private providers and providers adjacent to pharmacies). We used a multivariable Poisson regression model to assess associations between low ratings of public healthcare sources and the use of private care. Among the 811 respondents with a healthcare visit in the past year, 31.2% used private sources. Private healthcare users were more educated and had higher incomes than public healthcare users. Quality of most recent visit was rated more highly in private providers (70.2% rating the visit as excellent or very good for stand-alone private providers and 54.3% for pharmacy-adjacent doctors) compared to social security (41.6%) and other public providers (46.6%). Those who perceived public health institutions as low quality had a higher probability of seeking private healthcare. Users rated public care visits poorly relative to private care; at the population level, perceptions of poor quality care may drive private care use and hence out-of-pocket costs. Improving public healthcare quality is necessary to ensure universal health coverage.

Clustering Analysis of Online Shopping Behavior on the TikTok Platform: Revealing Different User Characteristics

With the integration of social media and e-commerce platforms, TikTok has become an important online shopping platform. This study aims to explore the online shopping behavior patterns of different user groups on the TikTok platform through cluster analysis methods. By designing and implementing a questionnaire survey, data on users' personal characteristics, usage habits, and purchasing behaviors were collected. Applying cluster analysis techniques, users were divided into different groups, and the characteristics of each group were deeply analyzed. This paper mainly focuses on identifying whether users characteristics are closely related to their shopping behaviors. This study finds that engagement with live streaming shopping, diversity of products purchased, and frequency of shopping on TikTok are key factors influencing their online shopping behaviors. This research not only provides targeted marketing strategy suggestions for the TikTok platform but also offers a new perspective for understanding e-commerce behavior on social media platforms.