User Control Research Articles

Intrapartum Electronic Cigarette Use and Birth Outcomes: Evidence from a Population-Based Study

The harms of combustible cigarette (CC) use in pregnancy for fetal development are well studied. Less understood are the potential impacts of newer non-combustible cigarette alternatives, including electronic cigarettes (ECs). Our goal was to examine whether EC use during pregnancy predicts increased risk of adverse birth outcomes. This retrospective cohort study used data from the Obstetrics Initiative (OBI), a statewide collaborative of 70 maternity hospitals. OBI’s clinical registry of data on nulliparous, term, singleton, and vertex fetal presentation pregnancies were from medical records. Three groups of pregnancy cigarette users (Controls (n = 26,394), CC (n = 2216), and EC (n = 493)) were compared on birth outcomes, controlling for background differences. Controls were defined as nonsmokers of ECs or CCs. Compared to the controls, the EC group had significantly lower birth weight, while the CC group had reduced birthweight and greater rates of arterial cord pH < 7.1. Compared to EC users, CC users had higher rates of neonates requiring antibiotics and NICU admission. Growing evidence suggests ECs are not safer alternatives to CCs and use during pregnancy should be discouraged. Additional research is needed, as non-significant trends for increased risk of several adverse neonatal outcomes following EC use were found, potentially significant in larger studies with average risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes and when frequency and timing of EC exposure are considered.

Trustworthiness of EHRs: Key Factors from a User-Centered Study in Germany

Abstract Background The integration of digital technologies, particularly Electronic Health Records (EHRs), promises substantial improvements in patient care and cost reductions. However, the success of EHRs depends heavily on patient trust and usage, which are influenced by their control over data visibility, storage, and sharing. Identifying the factors that enhance the perceived trustworthiness of EHRs is essential for increasing their reliability and acceptance in healthcare settings. Methods Participants (N = 30) first interacted with an interactive EHR prototype, then evaluated its trustworthiness and suggested improvements during semi-structured interviews. These interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes affecting perceptions of the EHR’s trustworthiness. Results Through thematic analysis, we developed a categorical system encompassing five principal themes: provider reputation, information quality, system characteristics, user control, and user feedback. The analysis revealed that deficiencies in design and usability indirectly affect perceptions of privacy and data security. Conclusions Our study underscores the critical role of contextual factors-including provider reputation, strategic IT partnerships, and user feedback-in cultivating trust in Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems. Addressing privacy concerns and bolstering user trust necessitates not only a professional approach to design and usability but also clear communication about adherence to rigorous data privacy and security standards. In Germany’s tightly regulated environment, clearly communicating EHR security standards is crucial. Enhancing trust also involves robust customer support, user control over their data, and leveraging social proof like high download rates or positive reviews. These approaches could significantly improve EHR acceptance and trust in digital health across the country. Key messages • The perceived trustworthiness of EHRs is essential for increasing their reliability and acceptance in healthcare settings. • Effective communication and design are critical for building trust in digital health technologies. Trust in EHRs grows with transparent data policies and empowering user controls.

Association between warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants users and risk of mortality: cohort studies in England and Hong Kong

Abstract Background The evidence of the association between warfarin and risk of mortality compared with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) has been mixed in current literature. Purpose To investigate the association between all-cause mortality and warfarin, compared with DOACs. Methods Population-based cohort studies were conducted using the data from the Hong Kong Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System (CDARS) and United Kingdom Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) Aurum. People with atrial fibrillation aged ≥18 years who initiated warfarin or a DOAC during the study period (1st Jan 2014 - 31st Dec 2019) were identified. Follow-up started from the first date of oral anticoagulant prescription and ended at earliest of the date of death, the day before drug switching (between warfarin and DOACs), transferring out of the practice (CPRD Aurum only), last data collection date for the practice (CPRD Aurum only) or the end of study period. We estimated propensity score (PS) based on the list of potential confounders including demographics, co-morbidities, co-medications and polypharmacy. Cox proportional hazards regression model with PS-weighting was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Among 227,190 new oral anticoagulant users, 54,367 (23.93%) died. The median follow-up was 2.96 and 2.45 years in CPRD and CDARS, respectively. Compared with DOAC use, a lower hazard of all-cause mortality was found in warfarin use (PS-weighted hazard ratio [HR]=0.94, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.89-0.99) in CPRD; while a higher hazard was observed in warfarin users (PS-weighted HR=1.31, 95% CI=1.24-1.39) in CDARS, versus DOAC users. Consistent results were seen in both databases when stratified warfarin users by Time in Therapeutic Range (TTR). We observed a lower hazard of all-cause mortality in warfarin users with TTR≥65% (PS-weighted HR=0.90, 95% CI=0.85-0.94 in CPRD; 0.87, 0.79-0.96 in CDARS) and increased hazard in warfarin users with TTR<65% (PS-weighted HR=1.37, 95% CI=1.25-1.49 in CPRD; 1.57, 1.48-1.66 in CDARS), versus DOAC users. Conclusions The hazard of all-cause mortality associated with warfarin compared with DOACs were found to be conflicting across databases. However, both databases consistently showed that an increased hazard of all-cause mortality was only found in warfarin users with TTR<65% but not in those with TTR≥65%, suggesting that the differences in hazard of all-cause mortality associated with warfarin compared with DOAC, in part may depend on anticoagulation control in warfarin users. We recommend that warfarin users with poor INR control warrant closer clinical attention and could be considered for a switch to DOACs.

A Framework for Decentralized Identity and Credential Management Leveraging Blockchain Technology

Abstract: As internet technology rapidly advances and the infrastructure continues to evolve, web applications have become an integral part of our daily lives, with electronic identities (e-identities) playing a crucial role. Today, e-identities are vital for verifying personal identity in numerous online activities, and as our dependence on them grows, so does the concern for their security. This increasing importance of e-identity security raises various challenges, highlighting the need for robust solutions. In response to these challenges, this article introduces a novel solution: a blockchain-based decentralized identity and credential management framework. This approach not only enhances security but also offers greater control and flexibility for users. The article delves into the intricacies of the framework, detailing its design and operational mechanism. Additionally, it explores a range of practical applications, demonstrating the framework's versatility and effectiveness through diverse case studies. This comprehensive examination underscores the framework's potential to revolutionize e-identity management and addresses the pressing need for secure and efficient online identity verification in our increasingly digital world.

HIV Prevention Product Acceptability and Preference Among Women in Sub-Saharan Africa to Inform Novel Biomedical Options in Development: A Systematic Review.

The availability of several HIV prevention options may allow women to choose a product that suits their lifestyle and preferences. Product attributes and contextual factors influence product acceptability, which affects uptake and effective use. We conducted a systematic review of acceptability and preference for biomedical HIV prevention products among women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) to inform the development of novel products. We used a comprehensive strategy to search three databases for peer-reviewed literature from SSA published between January 2015 and December 2023. A two-stage review process assessed references against eligibility criteria. Data were abstracted using a standardized spreadsheet, then organized by constructs from two theoretical frameworks of acceptability. Results were synthesized based on product classes defined by route of administration. We identified 408 unique references; 100 references met eligibility criteria. References assessed oral PrEP (n = 65), vaginal ring (n = 44), long-acting systemic products (injectable, implant, microarray patch) (n = 28), and other vaginal products (film, insert, gel) (n = 20). Over two-thirds reported qualitative or mixed-methods data, primarily from adolescent girls and young women. Frequent dosing, especially noted for daily oral PrEP, and perceived/experienced side effects were notably negative influences. Most end-users preferred long-acting products (systemically or vaginally delivered), though on-demand products offering user control were also valued. Influencing factors, especially partners, shaped end-user perceptions of product attributes and acceptability. All products were linked to at least some barriers to uptake and/or use, highlighting the need to provide end-users with a range of options and assist them in identifying one that best suits their circumstances and needs. Biomedical HIV prevention development should advance products that address gaps in available options while optimizing favorable product attributes to achieve high acceptability that ultimately supports adoption and use.

Tackling fashion waste from inside the wardrobe: The influence of personal factors on sustainable clothing use practice

Fashion consumption seems predestined for disenchantment, demarcated by low utilization levels and a consumption cycle that is too short to foster emotional attachment. To be sure, what occurs after purchase when clothing is taken home for use is a carbon intensive phase of the product's lifespan that is squarely within the clothing user's control and responsibility. Decreasing the purchase of new garments has the greatest potential to reduce the global carbon emissions associated with fashion consumption, and prolonging clothing's utilization are consumer habits considered critical to this aim. Clothing use, manifest in the wear, care, and repair practice, are a linchpin in determining how much and how quickly fashion becomes waste. Though these use behaviors clearly advance sustainable clothing consumption, the least is known about what occurs between purchase and disposal or why. It is also important to develop a method to measure sustainable use practice and explore the influence of personal factors that determine engagement in such. This research study examined how personal factors (including fashion trend sensitivity, style orientation, frugality) influence sustainable clothing use practices (wear, care, and repair). A quantitative questionnaire was administered online to a representative sample of 420 U.S. consumers. A multi-level path analysis was used to test a proposed model. The results indicate that fashion trend sensitivity, style orientation, and frugality positively influence sustainable clothing use practices. Further, findings reveal that these personal factors explain 80% of the variance in sustainable clothing use, highlighting the critical role of use practice in shaping sustainable clothing behavior.

Developing biomimetic PVA/PAA hydrogels with cellulose nanocrystals inspired by tree frog structures for superior wearable sensor functionality

This study developed a wearable sensor device featuring biomimetic structures inspired by tree frog toe pads to measure shoulder joint movements effectively. A PVA/PAA double-network hydrogel was formulated by mixing PVA and PAA in a 3:7 ratio, resulting in a Young's modulus of 7.2 kPa, closely matching human skin's mechanical properties. To enhance moisture retention, the hydrogel was supplemented with 20 mL glycerin, increasing its weight retention rate to 95 % after 28 days, a 5.6-fold improvement over glycerin-free hydrogels. Additionally, the incorporation of 0.2 wt% cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) increased the cross-linking density, reducing the swelling ratio from 124 % to 106 % and minimizing the impact of swelling cycles on mechanical properties from 22 % to 4 %. Treefrog-inspired microstructures were fabricated on the sensor surface using laser cutting and casting techniques, significantly enhancing adhesion under humid conditions, with normal, lateral, and peel-off adhesion forces improving by 500, 700, and 700 %, respectively. The sensor demonstrated accurate measurement of shoulder joint movements with an error margin of 6.3 % for polar angles (45°-135°) and 7.8 % for azimuth angles (0°-45°). The accompanying smartphone application provided real-time feedback, helping to prevent exercise injuries and improve user awareness and control of shoulder movements, making it suitable for both rehabilitation and athletic training.

Blockchain Based Decentralized Storage Drive

The "Decentralized Storage Drive" project introduces a secure, blockchain-based platform for decentralized data storage and sharing. By integrating the Interplanetary File System (IPFS) for decentralized storage, the platform ensures that data remains immutable and resistant to censorship. Solidity smart contracts deployed on the Ethereum blockchain provide robust mechanisms for access control, allowing users to manage data ownership and permissions without relying on centralized authorities. A React-based front- end interface simplifies user interaction, enabling seamless data upload and access management. This project addresses critical issues related to data privacy, security, and ownership, offering a user-friendly solution that empowers individuals with greater control over their digital assets. Throughout the development of this project, a focus on security, user control, and decentralization has been paramount. The rigorous testing of smart contracts and the integration of secure authentication methods ensure that the platform is both reliable and resilient to potential threats. The "Decentralized Storage Drive" represents a significant advancement in the field of decentralized applications, demonstrating the practical application of blockchain technology in everyday data management. Key Words: Decentralized Storage, Blockchain Technology, IPFS(InterPlanetary File System), Smart Contracts, Data Integrity, Access Control

Synthetic image data generation via rendering techniques for training AI-based Instance Segmentation

Within the scope of the development of the project, the acceleration and gyro signal, VR implementation, and User Control for VR were realized. The starting point was a list of MPU9250 data, which are acceleration and gyro data. The goal is to do the signal processing of the signal that is got from MPU9250 and implement the data with a specific format so that the LINAK LA36 actuator can be controlled in such a way that it performs as desired position. For this purpose, a multi-axis acceleration and position sensor is mounted on a surfing board which then collects the acceleration and Gyro data. A MATLAB Program had been written to convert the desired position into a CAN message. Before that, the raw acceleration data and gyro must be converted and filtered into actual data. First, the acceleration data was collected from another group. A signal processing method has been implemented. This includes gravitational force filter, noise filter, integration, and complementary filter method was used in order to get the accurate actual data that is able to be implemented into the system. For those methods, it was necessary to deal extensively with the characteristics of signal processing. VR application was implemented in this project to give the user a sensational surfing experience in the virtual world. User control has been implemented as well to allow users to control the video. Unity with Arduino work together so that both Arduino and Unity can communicate with each other, and signal messages will be sent to the Arduino from Unity and vice versa to achieve the synchronization of the video signal and Unity VR application.

Personal Identity Proofing for E-Commerce: A Case Study of Online Service Users in the Republic of Korea

The rapid expansion of non-face-to-face e-commerce services in the Korea has significantly increased the importance of personal identity proofing (PIP) for verifying users in online transactions, such as payments, refunds, membership registrations, and access to age-restricted products. Currently, personal identity proofing agencies (PIPAs) indiscriminately provide all of a user’s personal information to internet service providers (ISPs), leading to substantial privacy concerns and preventing users from selectively disclosing only the necessary information. The objective of this paper is to enhance the safety, convenience, and security of PIP services by proposing a method that empowers users to control the personal information they disclose while enabling digital identity integration for both online and offline applications. To achieve this, an extensive overview and analysis of the current PIP systems in Korea is presented, including methods. The strengths and weaknesses of these systems are critically examined, revealing limitations in privacy protection, user convenience, and security. Based on this analysis, a new method is proposed that introduces differentiated levels of PIP means according to authentication strength, allowing for the minimal necessary disclosure of personal information. The proposed method aims to improve the stability and reliability of the PIP service environment by addressing current privacy concerns and enhancing user control over personal information. This approach can be applied to e-commerce services in Korea and other countries facing similar challenges, contributing to the development of safer and more reliable online services.

Environmentally Controlled Microfluidic System Enabling Immune Cell Flow and Activation in an Endothelialised Skin-On-Chip.

Integration of reconstructed human skin (RhS) into organ-on-chip (OoC) platforms addresses current limitations imposed by static culturing. This innovation, however, is not without challenges. Microfluidic devices, while powerful, often encounter usability, robustness, and gas bubble issues that hinder large-scale high-throughput setups. This study aims to develop a novel re-usable multi-well microfluidic adaptor (MMA) with the objective to provide a flexible tool for biologists implementing complex 3D biological models (e.g., skin) while enabling simultaneous user control over temperature, medium flow, oxigen (O2), nitrogen (N2), and carbon dioxide (CO2) without the need for an incubator. The presented MMA device is designed to be compatible with standard, commercially available 6-well multi-well plates (6MWPs) and 12-well transwells. This MMA-6MWP setup is employed to generate a skin-on-chip (SoC). RhS viability is maintained under flow for three days and their morphology closely resembles that of native human skin. A proof-of-concept study demonstrates the system's potential in toxicology applications by combining endothelialised RhS with flowing immune cells. This dynamic setting activates the monocyte-like MUTZ-3 cells (CD83 and CD86 upregulation) upon topical exposure of RhS to a sensitizer, revealing the MMA-6MWP's unique capabilities compared to static culturing, where such activation is absent.

Artificial Intelligence: A Twenty First Century International Regulatory Challenge

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a twenty first century evolution. Certain aspects of AI have been integrated into daily living. AI applications have also been incorporated into the aviation, banking, cyber security, educational, employment, health, and military sectors respectively. However, the unpredictable nature of AI is a cause for concern because ‘In many instances, AI remains under the control of users and designers, but in increasing numbers of applications, the behaviour of a system cannot be predicted by those involved in design and application […]. Newly developed machines are able to teach themselves and even collect data’. Consequently, ‘The potential benefits and harms of AI have led to calls for governments to adapt quickly to the changes AI is already delivering and the potentially transformative changes to come. These include calls to pause AI development and for countries […] to deliver a step-change in regulation’. ‘In March 2023, more than 1,000 artificial intelligence experts, researchers and backers signed an open letter calling for an immediate pause on the creation of “giant” AIs for at least six months, so the capabilities and dangers of such systems can be properly studied and mitigated’. What are the benefits of AI? What are the risks of AI? Which crimes can be committed via AI? What are the regulatory challenges? What has been the international response? In this article, we will explore whether there is a justification for regulating AI from ethical, legal and law enforcement perspectives. Keywords: Artificial intelligence; Ethics; Regulation; Law enforcement

Automated Poisson regression exposure-response analysis for binary outcomes with PoissonERM.

PoissonERM is an R package used to conduct exposure-response (ER) analysis on binary outcomes for establishing the relationship between exposure and the occurrence of adverse events (AE). While Poisson regression could be implemented with glm(), PoissonERM provides a simple way to semi-automate the entire analysis and generate an abbreviated report as an R markdown (Rmd) file that includes the essential analysis details with brief conclusions. PoissonERM processes the provided data set using the information from the user's control script and generates summary tables/figures for the exposure metrics, covariates, and event counts of each endpoint (each type of AE). After checking the incidence rate of each AE, the correlation, and missing values in each covariate, an exposure-response model is developed for each endpoint based on the provided specifications. PoissonERM has the flexibility to incorporate and compare multiple scale transformations in its modeling. The best exposure metric is selected based on a univariate model's p-value or deviance ( ) as specified. If a covariate search is specified in the control script, the final model is developed using backward elimination. PoissonERM identifies and avoids highly correlated covariates in the final model development of each endpoint. Predicting event incidence rates using external (simulated) exposure metric data is an additional functionality in PoissonERM, which is useful to understand the event occurrence associated with certain dose regimens. The summary outputs of the cleaned data, model developments, and predictions are saved in the working folder and can be compiled into a HTML report using Rmd.

EVALUASI USABILITY WEBSITE DISDUKCAPIL KABUPATEN MAJALENGKA MENGGUNAKAN METODE HEURISTIC EVALUATION

This study evaluates the usability of the DISDUKCAPIL website of Majalengka Regency using the heuristic evaluation method. By collecting questionnaire data referring to ten heuristic principles, this study identified key issues such as aesthetics, flexibility, and system feedback. The results indicate that a more minimalist and consistent design is needed to improve user experience. Recommendations for improvement are focused on increasing visibility, user control, and help features. Implementation of recommendations is expected to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of services provided through this website, so that it better meets the needs of the Majalengka community.

Evaluating and Enhancing Canvas Course Website: Prioritizing User‐Centered Design

ABSTRACTCanvas, a learning management system (LMS), has been widely adopted by academic institutions across North America. Despite its robust features, the user experience with Canvas varies significantly. This study examines the design of a Canvas course website, providing evidence‐based guidance for creating user‐centered LMS interfaces. The findings aim to enhance the user experience by addressing issues such as information overload, user control, and accessibility. Design principles and recommendations generated from this study are crucial for our institution‐wide adoption of Canvas, promoting a seamless and supportive learning environment.

Privacy Slider: Fine-Grain Privacy Control for Smartphones

Today, users are constrained by binary choices when configuring permissions. These binary choices contrast with the complex data collected, limiting user control and transparency. For instance, weather applications do not need exact user locations when merely inquiring about local weather conditions. We envision sliders to empower users to fine-tune permissions. First, we ran two online surveys (N=123 & N=109) and a workshop (N=5) to develop the initial design of Privacy Slider. After the implementation phase, we evaluated our functional prototype using a lab study (N=32). The results show that our slider design for permission control outperforms today's system concerning all measures, including control and transparency.

Establishing Trust and Security in Decentralized Metaverse: A Web 3.0 Approach

The integration of blockchain and Web 3.0 technologies offers significant advancements in identity management and trust within decentralized Metaverse environments. Despite the rapid development of numerous Metaverse platforms, these environments often operate in isolation, lacking interoperability and cohesive security measures. This paper proposes a novel architecture leveraging Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) principles and blockchain technology to achieve secure and interoperable interactions across different Metaverse platforms. Our framework encompasses a digital wallet application, an interactive virtual environment, and a secure blockchain-based backend infrastructure. We detail the system architecture, operational specifics, and demonstrate significant improvements in scalability, efficiency, and security through comprehensive performance evaluations. Additionally, we address the challenges of real-world implementation and propose viable solutions. By enhancing user control over personal data and enabling secure cross-platform interactions, our approach aims to foster a more secure, interoperable, and user-centric decentralized Metaverse.

Seamless switching, feedforward, and feedback mechanisms: Enhancing task performance and user perception in device switch

In an era where digital multitasking is universal, the necessity to switch between devices is vital. The effect of switching modes between devices on the user experience remains unclear. This study investigates the impact of switching modes on task performance and user perception within interconnected device environments. A within-subject experiment utilizing memory recall tasks was implemented to test three switching modes: seamless switching, passive switching, and switching with feedforward and feedback. Task accuracy rate, perceived interruption, perceived control, and behavioral intention were measured. Results indicated that seamless switching outperformed passive switching in task accuracy rate. Passive switching elicited the highest level of perceived interruption, while switching with feedforward and feedback substantially improved the perceived control of users over seamless switching. The behavioral intention to use seamless switching and switching with feedforward and feedback was considerably higher than that for passive switching. This research provides insights into the comparative benefits of seamless switching and switching with feedforward and feedback, particularly regarding their influence on user perception. Practical implications for the design of interconnected device switching and the management of device ecosystems are also presented.

Fetal Growth Following Electronic Cigarette Use in Pregnancy.

Electronic cigarette (e-cig) use in pregnancy is common, but potential effects on fetal development are largely unknown. This study's goal was to examine the association between e-cig exposure and fetal growth. Data were extracted from medical charts in this single-site retrospective study. The sample, excluding those with known tobacco, alcohol, illicit drug, opioid, and benzodiazepine use, contained women who used e-cigs throughout pregnancy and non-e-cig user controls. Fetal size measurements from second- and third-trimester ultrasounds and at birth were expressed as percentiles for gestational age. Following adjustment for confounding factors, in the second trimester, only femur length was significant, with an adjusted deficit of 11.5 percentile points for e-cig exposure compared to controls. By the third trimester, the femur length difference was 28.5 points, with the fetal weight difference also significant (17.2 points). At birth, all three size parameter differences between groups were significant. Significant size deficits were predicted by prenatal e-cig exposure, becoming larger and impacting more parameters with increasing gestation. While additional studies are warranted to confirm and expand upon these findings, this study adds to emerging data pointing to specific harms following e-cig exposure in pregnancy and suggests that e-cigs may not be a "safer" alternative to combustible cigarette smoking in pregnancy.

Optimizing Tigertriever adjustable stentriever technique: Operators' experience.

The Tigertriever is a novel, radially adjustable stentriever that addresses limitations in traditional mechanical thrombectomy devices by providing enhanced user control over clot integration. This provides the ability to adapt to patient-specific factors such as varying vessel sizes and clot compositions and may be particularly crucial for ensuring efficacy and safety in distal locations. This consensus paper synthesizes the clinical techniques from a consortium of experienced international operators. It outlines the current data on the Tigertriever, discusses the new operator-controlled capabilities, and provides a recommended approach for both proximal and distal mechanical thrombectomy, emphasizing the "FLEX" approach (Fast Controlled Expansion with Relaxation) for optimal integration and reduced clot disruption.