User Experience Research Articles

FunCoup 6: advancing functional association networks across species with directed links and improved user experience

Abstract FunCoup 6 (https://funcoup.org) represents a significant advancement in global functional association networks, aiming to provide researchers with a comprehensive view of the functional coupling interactome. This update introduces novel methodologies and integrated tools for improved network inference and analysis. Major new developments in FunCoup 6 include vastly expanding the coverage of gene regulatory links, a new framework for bin-free Bayesian training and a new website. FunCoup 6 integrates a new tool for disease and drug target module identification using the TOPAS algorithm. To expand the utility of the resource for biomedical research, it incorporates pathway enrichment analysis using the ANUBIX and EASE algorithms. The unique comparative interactomics analysis in FunCoup provides insights of network conservation, now allowing users to align orthologs only or query each species network independently. Bin-free training was applied to 23 primary species, and in addition, networks were generated for all remaining 618 species in InParanoiDB 9. Accompanying these advancements, FunCoup 6 features a new redesigned website, together with updated API functionalities, and represents a pivotal step forward in functional genomics research, offering unique capabilities for exploring the complex landscape of protein interactions.

Abstract 4136358: Diagnostic accuracy of Apple Watch Electrocardiogram for Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Electrocardiography (ECG) stands as the gold standard for the evaluation of cardiac arrhythmias. Recent smartwatches aim to promptly detect rhythm abnormalities enhancing user experience. However, the accuracy of these devices remains controversial. Our purpose was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the diagnostic performance of the Apple Watch electrocardiogram in detecting atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: The literature search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane through April, 2024 for studies comparing the diagnostic accuracy of Apple Watch to standard 12 Lead ECG. Statistical analysis was performed using R Software version 4.4.0. Pooled analyses of sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were determined along with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). The quality of studies was analyzed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Results: The meta-analysis included 11 studies comprising 13,490 participants. Their mean age was 62.56 ± 3.92 years and 28% of the population were females. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of Apple Watch for detecting AF was 94.8% (95% CI 91.7 - 96.8%) and 95% (95% CI 88.6 - 97.8%) respectively. The AUC was 0.96 (95% CI 0.92 - 0.97; Figure 1). Sensitivity analysis for heterogeneity revealed no significant change in values for sensitivity 94.8% (95% CI 91.7-96.8%) and specificity 94.9% (95% CI 88.6-97.8%). The studies had a low risk of bias in Index test and reference standard domains, but a high risk of bias in patient selection and Flow and timing domains. Conclusion: The Apple Watch ECG shows a high accuracy in detecting atrial fibrillation, providing a convenient and timely option for such patients.

AI assistance in enterprise UX design workflows: enhancing design brief creation for designers

The study explores the impact of AI tools on the daily tasks of designers in corporate environments, with a focus on the creation and evaluation processes of design briefs. Given ChatGPT’s advanced natural language processing capabilities and its potential to meet the complex communication and analysis needs of design work, this tool was selected to investigate its application in designers’ workflows. Through expert interviews, experimental testing, and third-party expert evaluations, we collected and analyzed data to understand the impact of AI on work processes. The findings indicate that AI tools significantly enhance both operational experience and subjective perceptions across most tasks. Additionally, the study provides a visual comparison of the testing process through a user experience map, highlighting AI’s positive influence on work efficiency, information retrieval, verification, analysis, communication, and decision-making. However, challenges remain in ensuring information authenticity, protecting content copyright, and maintaining professional identity. The primary objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of AI application in business contexts and its impact on designers’ roles. By analyzing real-world feedback, the research aims to identify the strengths and weaknesses of AI solutions in enterprises and offer practical recommendations. The study underscores the importance of integrating AI thinking into workflows and adopting a human-centric approach for the future development of corporate work environments.

Understanding user experience and normative data in pharyngeal residue rating scales used in flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES): A scoping review

Purpose Pharyngeal residue rating scales are often used to rate pharyngeal residue observed during flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing. Despite the widespread use of pharyngeal residue rating scales, there is no data that has systematically explored user experience. The aim of this scoping review was to investigate specific reporting of user experience, user centred design principles, and normative data in the development of pharyngeal residue rating scales. Method A scoping review was conducted across four electronic databases inclusive of all dates until June 2024. Grey literature searching occurred in March–April 2023 and was repeated in June 2024. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) protocol. Titles/abstracts, full texts, and data extraction were reviewed by two independent reviewers. Result A total of 22 sources were included, with 18 unique pharyngeal residue rating scales identified. Two studies referred to user experience, seven included at least one user centred design principle, and four studies reported on normative data. Conclusion The findings of this review highlight few pharyngeal residue rating scales include the experience of the intended user and establish normative data in the initial development phase. User experience, user centred design principles, and normative data may be useful considerations to optimise functionality.

Analisis Kepuasan Pengguna Website Repository Universitas Amikom Purwokerto menggunakan Metode System Usability Scale (SUS)

This study aims to analyze user satisfaction with the Universitas Amikom Purwokerto repository website using the System Usability Scale (SUS) method. In the digital era, online repositories play a crucial role as a platform for storing, managing, and distributing academic work, supporting academic activities and knowledge exchange. However, observations indicate that the repository website faces challenges in accessibility, including unintuitive navigation, difficult-to-understand menus, and limited language options, as it is only available in English. Through a SUS survey involving 100 respondents, an average SUS score of 46 was obtained, falling into the "Not Acceptable" category with a grade of "F" and an adjective rating of "Poor." This result indicates that the website’s usability is insufficient and requires improvement. Recommendations include enhancing navigation, ensuring interface consistency, providing a dual-language option (Indonesian and English), improving website speed, and conducting regular user satisfaction evaluations. These improvements aim to optimize the Universitas Amikom Purwokerto repository website, thereby providing a better user experience and effectively supporting academic activities and the dissemination of academic work.

POSSIBILITIES AND PROSPECTS OF USING AR AND VR IN THE MARKETING ACTIVITIES OF BUSINESS STRUCTURES

The relevance of the work is due to the fact that in the conditions of digitization of the economy with the help of AR and VR, businesses can create unique offers for each client, increasing the level of satisfaction and loyalty. The use of AR and VR allows not only to increase customer engagement, but also to create a unique user experience that strengthens the brand and increases sales. The purpose of the article is to research the possibilities and prospects of using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies in marketing strategies of modern business. The scientific study includes practical examples of the use of AR and VR in real marketing campaigns. The article presents the distinctive characteristics of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies. The article indicates the potential development trends of AR and VR in the field of marketing and their impact on business competitiveness in the digital economy. The challenges that companies face during the implementation of these technologies are identified, namely: technical challenges (High requirements for technical support, Complexity of content development, Difficult integration with other technologies), economic challenges (High cost of implementation, Limited number of users, High costs of maintenance and updating) and social challenges (Barriers in technology adoption, Privacy and data security, Social inequality). Recommendations for overcoming them have been developed. It is noted that in order to overcome these obstacles, it is necessary to improve technical solutions, reduce costs and work on improving the user experience. At the same time, it is important to take into account the confidentiality and availability of technologies for different categories of the population. AR and VR have been found to be successfully used in various fields to enhance user engagement and create new opportunities for brands. The results of the study can help business structures to better navigate the possibilities of AR and VR, facilitating adaptation to new market realities. Prospects for further research include the development of a method for assessing the effectiveness of AR/VR campaigns.

Deepfakes, sextortion, and virtual lovers

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has taken higher education by storm since late 2022 and offered new opportunities and challenges for educators and learners alike. Yet dominant literature to date has emphasised the challenges of assessing effectively in a post-plagiarism and post-truth era, and the new technological affordances offered. Yet, the costs of generative artificial intelligence stemming beyond academic integrity breaches and student cheating are not well understood. In this panel, we discuss the emerging trends of Generative AI that extend beyond student learning but are nested inside the learning environment - from the emergence of AI-generated content to the side effects of extended use of AI on relationship formation, student social skill development, and social anxiety. We will in particular explore how this is occurring in the high school context and its subsequent applicability to university learners’ loneliness, isolation, and wellbeing. The panel offers a thought-provoking discussion with three academics in three different disciplines and universities, and a student partner with experience in AI usage.

Dynamic multimedia transmission scheduling by unmanned aerial vehicle–mounted base stations for a vehicular ad hoc network

On highways, vehicle speed and topology changes are likely to cause transmission delays. In this study, a multimedia transmission system for highways is proposed; this system combines a next-generation cloud radio access network, which has a centralised architecture, with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-mounted base stations (UAV-BSs), cellular network base stations, and roadside units. The deployment characteristics of the UAV-BSs are examined to improve the service of vehicular ad hoc networks and the quality of experience of users. A UAV location assignment algorithm and a transmission resource allocation algorithm for multiple bit rates, communication channels, and relay stations are proposed to reduce multimedia playback lag. We implemented a simulation programme to evaluate how the proposed algorithms outperformed other relevant methods. The simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithms achieve lower lag time than do existing demand- and transmission-based methods. The findings of this study have implications for the practical application of multimedia transmission decision support on highways.

A New Research Model for Artificial Intelligence–Based Well-Being Chatbot Engagement: Survey Study

Background Artificial intelligence (AI)–based chatbots have emerged as potential tools to assist individuals in reducing anxiety and supporting well-being. Objective This study aimed to identify the factors that impact individuals’ intention to engage and their engagement behavior with AI-based well-being chatbots by using a novel research model to enhance service levels, thereby improving user experience and mental health intervention effectiveness. Methods We conducted a web-based questionnaire survey of adult users of well-being chatbots in China via social media. Our survey collected demographic data, as well as a range of measures to assess relevant theoretical factors. Finally, 256 valid responses were obtained. The newly applied model was validated through the partial least squares structural equation modeling approach. Results The model explained 62.8% (R2) of the variance in intention to engage and 74% (R2) of the variance in engagement behavior. Affect (β=.201; P=.002), social factors (β=.184; P=.007), and compatibility (β=.149; P=.03) were statistically significant for the intention to engage. Habit (β=.154; P=.01), trust (β=.253; P<.001), and intention to engage (β=.464; P<.001) were statistically significant for engagement behavior. Conclusions The new extended model provides a theoretical basis for studying users’ AI-based chatbot engagement behavior. This study highlights practical points for developers of AI-based well-being chatbots. It also highlights the importance of AI-based well-being chatbots to create an emotional connection with the users.

Enhancing Human-Computer Interaction in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Environments: The Role of Adaptive Interfaces and Haptic Feedback Systems

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) environments has emerged as a critical area of research, shaping how users interact with immersive technologies. This study explores the design and development of advanced HCI frameworks in AR/VR environments, with a particular focus on adaptive interfaces and haptic feedback systems. Adaptive interfaces employ real-time data to personalize user experiences, while haptic feedback systems provide tactile sensations to bridge the gap between digital and physical interactions. The integration of these technologies enhances user engagement, immersion, and efficiency across applications such as gaming, training simulations, healthcare, and remote collaboration. This research investigates the challenges in creating intuitive, responsive systems and examines cutting-edge solutions in multimodal interactions, gesture recognition, and real-time feedback processing. By analyzing user performance and satisfaction, this study contributes to the refinement of AR/VR systems, paving the way for next-generation immersive environments.

Development of a Smart Lock System using QR Code Technology

A smart lock system refers to a modern security solution that enables users to remotely control access to their homes or businesses using a smart device such as smartphone, tablet, or computer. This paper presents the development of a smart lock system using Quick Response (QR) code technology to address the problem of insecurity, inconvenience, and inflexibility in access control. The proposed system eliminates the need for physical keys or complex authentication and verification methods. The system integrates an ESP8266 microcontroller, barcode scanner, 16x2 liquid-crystal display (LCD), solenoid lock, relay, and a 12V power supply. The system allows authorised users to generate unique QR codes representing their access credentials through a user-friendly interface. These QR codes are scanned by the system, which processes the codes, verifies access permissions via a central server and provides real-time feedback through the LCD. Upon successful verification, the system triggers a relay to control the solenoid lock, to grant or deny access. The implementation and testing of the smart lock system demonstrated successful operation. The performance indices include authentication speed, system reliability, accuracy and response time, which were evaluated and found to be satisfactory. The obtained results showed that the proposed system outperformed traditional methods such as keys, and fingerprint authentication, with an access speed of 2.00 seconds, which is significantly faster than the alternatives. Comparative analysis with existing access control techniques demonstrated the developed system's enhanced security features and user-friendly operation, making it applicable for residential, commercial, and industrial use. Additionally, the system's scalability and adaptability allow it to be customised for various environments, offering a versatile solution to diverse security challenges. This work contributes to the field of security technology by providing an efficient and scalable smart lock system with novel algorithms, which enhances the convenience, robustness of access control and seamless user experience.

In rod we trust–The evaluation of a virtual rod and frame test as a cybersickness screening instrument

Although Virtual Reality (VR) holds massive potential, its applicability still faces challenges because some individuals experience cybersickness. This phenomenon includes general discomfort, disorientation, and/or nausea, and it threatens not only a pleasant user experience but also the user’s safety. Thus, predicting a user’s susceptibility without relying on screening questionnaires that focus on past experiences, would enable more pleasant, safer VR experiences, especially for first-time users. Hence, the current study uses the participant’s controller input in a virtual Rod and Frame Test (RFT) as an effortlessly trackable performance measure. The RFT is an established method for measuring an individual’s sense of verticality in visually displaced fields. It has been used in the context of simulator sickness and cybersickness. In line with the literature and the subjective vertical mismatch theory, a lower visual dependency is expected to be correlated positively with cybersickness. To evaluate the potential of the RFT as a screening method for cybersickness, a cybersickness-inducing virtual environment (the City) was deployed. In total, data from 76 participants were eligible for the statistical analysis. The study finds a positive correlation between lower visual dependency and cybersickness, but only for the group that took the RFT after experiencing the City and only for the post-RFT cybersickness ratings. As cybersickness symptoms were VR environment-specific, the predictive validity of the RFT considering the VR-specific attributes is limited. Further, other studies attributed different working mechanisms to explain the connection between visual dependence and cybersickness with conflicting evidence. Although the RFT is not applicable as a cybersickness screening method, the effect sizes suggest that the RFT could serve as an additional objective assessment of the individuals’ current state during VR exposure. Future research should systematically explore interconnections between the various factors that contribute to cybersickness, pursuing the idea of open science for context sensitivity.

Rfam 15: RNA families database in 2025

Abstract The Rfam database, a widely used repository of non-coding RNA families, has undergone significant updates in release 15.0. This paper introduces major improvements, including the expansion of Rfamseq to 26 106 genomes, a 76% increase, incorporating the latest UniProt reference proteomes and additional viral genomes. Sixty-five RNA families were enhanced using experimentally determined 3D structures, improving the accuracy of consensus secondary structures and annotations. R-scape covariation analysis was used to refine structural predictions in 26 families. Gene Ontology (GO) and Sequence Ontology annotations were comprehensively updated, increasing GO term coverage to 75% of families. The release adds 14 new Hepatitis C Virus RNA families and completes microRNA family synchronization with miRBase, resulting in 1603 microRNA families. New data types, including FULL alignments, have been implemented. Integration with APICURON for improved curator attribution and multiple website enhancements further improve user experience. These updates significantly expand Rfam’s coverage and improve annotation quality, reinforcing its critical role in RNA research, genome annotation and the development of machine learning models. Rfam is freely available at https://rfam.org.

Analisis Kepuasan Pengguna Website Zahira Media Publisher Menggunakan Metode End User Computing Satisfaction (EUCS)

This study aims to analyze user satisfaction with the website of Zahira Media Publisher, a publishing company that has been operating since 2012. Using a descriptive analysis method and a quantitative approach, this study collected data through a questionnaire designed based on the End User Computing Satisfaction (EUCS) model. The five main variables analyzed include content, accuracy, format, ease of use, and timeliness of information. The results showed that the quality of content and the accuracy of information greatly influenced user satisfaction. In addition, the ease of use of the website is also an important factor that improves user experience. that improves user experience. Although the Zahira Media Publisher website offers a wide range of publishing services, there are some obstacles, especially in the process of registering new user accounts, which can hinder access to key features. This research provides recommendations for improvements in website design and functionality to increase user satisfaction and customer loyalty.

Analyzing the Effects of Platform Reliability, Response Time, Safety Features, and User Experiences, on Customer Loyalty in Industrial Online Transportation Service in Indonesia

This study investigates the effects of platform reliability, response time, safety features, and user experience on customer loyalty within the industrial online transportation services in Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from a sample of users through structured questionnaires. The results revealed significant positive relationships between all examined factors and customer loyalty, with safety features and user experience being the most influential. The findings emphasize the importance of reliable platforms, timely service, robust safety measures, and positive user experiences in enhancing customer retention. These insights provide practical implications for companies in the online transportation sector to develop strategies that foster customer loyalty and maintain a competitive advantage.

‘We didn't need to know about everything all at once’

Tertiary student engagement with information and academic literacy online resources provided by centralized units is low. Although these resources are designed to prepare students for their assessments, they are often positioned peripherally to students’ learning environments. In attempting to position resources within students’ learning environments, our Library team conduct regular user experience (UX) testing of a course we have designed in our institution’s learning management system. Our two-year UX project has focused on the design and organization of resources that show students examples and guidance with how to do their assessments. Over two rounds of data collection and analysis, UX methods of usability testing, card sorting, low-fidelity wireframing, and high-fidelity prototyping helped identify student preferences for organising and accessing our resources. Findings indicate that students value the provision of relevant examples and guidance that show them what is expected in assessments and that they want direct access to that content as part of their courses. Implications for design include maximizing ease of use by positioning links to relevant examples and guidance in the assessment instructions and/or specific learning materials of courses, with the content being linked to positioned within a centralized repository in the same online learning environment.

Fortifying Application Security: Integrating OAuth2 Single Sign-On with Precision Role-Based Access Control

In today's digital era, securing applications has become paramount due to the increasing sophistication of cyber threats and the proliferation of data breaches. This paper explores how integrating OAuth2 Single Sign-On (SSO) with precision Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) can significantly enhance application security. By unifying authentication and authorization mechanisms, organizations can streamline user access while mitigating risks associated with over-privileged accounts and credential fatigue. We delve into the OAuth2 protocol architecture, dissect the core components of RBAC, and present strategies for their effective integration. Through real-world case studies and comparative analyses, we highlight the benefits, challenges, and future trends of this integration. Our findings underscore the necessity for robust security frameworks that adapt to evolving threats, emphasizing the role of OAuth2 SSO and RBAC in fortifying application security. Keywords Application Security, OAuth2, Single Sign-On, Role-Based Access Control, Authentication, Authorization, Identity Providers, JSON Web Tokens, Zero Trust Security, Adaptive Authentication, Machine Learning, Identity Management, User Experience, Credential Fatigue, Cyber Threats, Access Control

Smart Park: Innovating the Future of Vehicle Parking

Effective parking solutions become increasingly important as urban areas increase because of wasted space, time-consuming searches, and traffic congestion. By utilizing cutting edge technologies to improve parking management and user experience, the Smart Vehicle Parking System (SVPS) tackles these issues. To deliver dynamic solutions, SVPS combines sophisticated algorithms, sensor networks, and real-time data. Parking space sensors track occupancy and transmit data to a central system, where machine learning maximizes space distribution and directs vehicles to open spaces. This smart parking system is software and hardware based. Different algorithms are used to find vacant slots using machine learning and deep learning. IR sensors, RFID, Servomotors and ESP 32 microcontrollers and Internet of things are useful to find vacant slots in real time signal processing. In traditional method it is difficult to search free space, and this method is time consuming, Smart parking system overcome this problem with new technology and improve parking management system. The SVPS not only improves urban mobility but also contributes to reducing vehicle emissions and enhanced overall efficiency. Keywords— smart parking, integration, secure payment,advanced technologies, convenient.

Accuracy and efficiency of drilling trajectories with augmented reality versus conventional navigation randomized crossover trial

Conventional navigation systems (CNS) in surgery require strong spatial cognitive abilities and hand-eye coordination. Augmented Reality Navigation Systems (ARNS) provide 3D guidance and may overcome these challenges, but their accuracy and efficiency compared to CNS have not been systematically evaluated. In this randomized crossover study with 36 participants from different professional backgrounds (surgeons, students, engineers), drilling accuracy, time and perceived workload were evaluated using ARNS and CNS. For the first time, this study provides compelling evidence that ARNS and CNS have comparable accuracy in translational error. Differences in angle and depth error with ARNS were likely due to limited stereoscopic vision, hardware limitations, and design. Despite this, ARNS was preferred by most participants, including surgeons with prior navigation experience, and demonstrated a significantly better overall user experience. Depending on accuracy requirements, ARNS could serve as a viable alternative to CNS for guided drilling, with potential for future optimization.

The Future of Smart Home Security: Generative AI and LLMs for Intelligent Event Detection and Personalized Notifications

Abstract—Smart home security cameras are becoming more common, but their usefulness can be diminished by notification fatigue from too many alerts about minor incidents. This paper examines the gaps of existing event detection and notification systems in security cameras and then recommends using Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) to add intelligence which would improve user experience. Generative AI can be leveraged to classify events more accurately and assist with anomaly detection. LLMs can further be used to create notifications that are tailored to the context and personalized to users behavior, helping to reduce notification fatigue and provide meaningful user alerts. The paper also looks into wider applications of these technologies to add intelligence and improve other related experiences like automated video summarization, proactive security measures, and improved privacy controls. The integration of Generative AI and LLMs with smart home security camera systems advances the smart cameras capabilities and offers enhanced security, personalized user experiences. Keywords—Smart home security, Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Event detection, Anomaly detection, Notification fatigue, Context-aware notifications, Personalized security, Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (RLHF), Internet of Things (IoT).