scholarly journals MyStrengths, a Strengths-Focused Mobile Health Tool: Participatory Design and Development (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stian Jessen ◽  
Jelena Mirkovic ◽  
Lise Solberg Nes
Keyword(s):  
Mobile Health ◽  
Participatory Design ◽  
Developmental Process ◽  
Chronic Illnesses ◽  
Editorial Team ◽  
Second Phase ◽  
User Group ◽  
Design And Development ◽  
Personal Strengths ◽  
Wide Range

BACKGROUND People living with chronic illnesses are an increasingly large group. Research indicates that care and self-management should not only focus on the illness and problem-oriented aspects of these individuals’ lives but also support them in recognizing and leveraging their personal strengths in daily life. OBJECTIVE This paper presents the design and developmental process of <i>MyStrengths</i>, a mobile health (mHealth) app designed to help its users (people with chronic conditions) both find and make use of their personal strengths in their daily lives. Through 4 consecutive phases, this paper presents participant- and researcher-driven activities, discussions regarding design, and development of both the <i>MyStrengths</i> app and its content. METHODS During the 4 phases, we used a range of methods and activities, including (1) an idea-generating workshop aimed at creating ideas for strengths-supporting features with different stakeholders, including patients, caregivers, relatives, and designers (N=35); (2) research seminars with an international group of experts (N=6), in which the concept, theoretical background, and design ideas for the app were discussed; (3) a series of co-design workshops with people in the user group (N=22) aiming to create ideas for how to, in an engaging manner, design the app; and (4) in 4 developmental iterations, the app was evaluated by people in the user group (N=13). Content and strengths exercises were worked on and honed by the research team, the expert groups, and our internal editorial team during the entire developmental process. RESULTS The first phase found a wide range of stakeholder requirements to, and ideas for, strengths-focused mHealth apps. From reviewing literature during the second phase, we found a dearth of research on personal strengths with respect to people living with chronic illnesses. Activities during the third phase creatively provided numerous ideas and suggestions for engaging and gameful ways to develop and design the <i>MyStrengths</i> app. The final phase saw the output from all the earlier phases come together. Through multiple increasingly complete iterations of user evaluations testing and developing, the final prototype of the <i>MyStrengths</i> app was created. CONCLUSIONS Although research supports the use of strengths-focused mHealth tools to support people living with chronic illnesses, there is little guidance as to how these tools and their content should be designed. Through all activities, we found great support among participating users for strengths-focused apps, and we can consider such apps to be both appropriate and valuable. This paper illustrates how combining a range of user-, researcher-, literature-, and designer-based methods can contribute to creating mHealth tools to support people with chronic illnesses to find and use more of their own personal strengths.

scholarly journals MyStrengths, a Strengths-Focused Mobile Health Tool: Participatory Design and Development

10.2196/18049 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (7) ◽  
pp. e18049
Author(s):  
Stian Jessen ◽  
Jelena Mirkovic ◽  
Lise Solberg Nes
Keyword(s):  
Mobile Health ◽  
Participatory Design ◽  
Developmental Process ◽  
Chronic Illnesses ◽  
Editorial Team ◽  
Second Phase ◽  
User Group ◽  
Design And Development ◽  
Personal Strengths ◽  
Wide Range

Background People living with chronic illnesses are an increasingly large group. Research indicates that care and self-management should not only focus on the illness and problem-oriented aspects of these individuals’ lives but also support them in recognizing and leveraging their personal strengths in daily life. Objective This paper presents the design and developmental process of MyStrengths, a mobile health (mHealth) app designed to help its users (people with chronic conditions) both find and make use of their personal strengths in their daily lives. Through 4 consecutive phases, this paper presents participant- and researcher-driven activities, discussions regarding design, and development of both the MyStrengths app and its content. Methods During the 4 phases, we used a range of methods and activities, including (1) an idea-generating workshop aimed at creating ideas for strengths-supporting features with different stakeholders, including patients, caregivers, relatives, and designers (N=35); (2) research seminars with an international group of experts (N=6), in which the concept, theoretical background, and design ideas for the app were discussed; (3) a series of co-design workshops with people in the user group (N=22) aiming to create ideas for how to, in an engaging manner, design the app; and (4) in 4 developmental iterations, the app was evaluated by people in the user group (N=13). Content and strengths exercises were worked on and honed by the research team, the expert groups, and our internal editorial team during the entire developmental process. Results The first phase found a wide range of stakeholder requirements to, and ideas for, strengths-focused mHealth apps. From reviewing literature during the second phase, we found a dearth of research on personal strengths with respect to people living with chronic illnesses. Activities during the third phase creatively provided numerous ideas and suggestions for engaging and gameful ways to develop and design the MyStrengths app. The final phase saw the output from all the earlier phases come together. Through multiple increasingly complete iterations of user evaluations testing and developing, the final prototype of the MyStrengths app was created. Conclusions Although research supports the use of strengths-focused mHealth tools to support people living with chronic illnesses, there is little guidance as to how these tools and their content should be designed. Through all activities, we found great support among participating users for strengths-focused apps, and we can consider such apps to be both appropriate and valuable. This paper illustrates how combining a range of user-, researcher-, literature-, and designer-based methods can contribute to creating mHealth tools to support people with chronic illnesses to find and use more of their own personal strengths.

scholarly journals Developing a Task Switching Training Game for Children With a Rare Genetic Syndrome Linked to Intellectual Disability

2019 ◽  
Vol 50 (2) ◽  
pp. 160-179 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nigel Robb ◽  
Annalu Waller ◽  
Kate A. Woodcock
Keyword(s):  
Intellectual Disability ◽  
Cognitive Training ◽  
Task Switching ◽  
Participatory Design ◽  
Matched Control ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Genetic Syndromes ◽  
Design And Development ◽  
Genetic Syndrome ◽  
Wide Range

Background. The ability to rapidly switch between tasks is important in a variety of contexts. Training in task switching may be particularly valuable for children with intellectual disability (ID), specifically ID linked to genetic syndromes such as Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). We have developed a cognitive training game for children with PWS and performed a pilot evaluation of the programme to inform future game development. Here, we describe and critically reflect on the development and pilot evaluation process. Methods. Several novel aspects of our approach are highlighted in this paper, including the involvement (in various roles) of children with a rare genetic syndrome (PWS) in the development and evaluation of the software (participatory design) and the development of a matched control, or placebo version of the game for use in the pilot evaluation. Results. Children with PWS were capable of contributing to the design and development of a cognitive training game in various roles. In the subsequent pilot evaluation, playing the active version of the game was associated with greater improvement in task switching performance than playing the matched control (placebo) version of the game. However, attrition was an issue during both the design phase and the pilot evaluation. Conclusions. The lessons learned from our work have relevance in a wide range of contexts, such as the development of future cognitive training games; the evaluation of serious games in general; and the involvement of end-users with cognitive disabilities and/or rare syndromes in the design and development of software.

scholarly journals Participatory Design, Project Clients, and Healthcare User Groups

2020 ◽  
pp. 193758672094846
Author(s):  
Jane Carthey
Keyword(s):  
Group Process ◽  
Participatory Design ◽  
Best Practice ◽  
Healthcare Facility ◽  
User Group ◽  
Best Practice Guidelines ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
User Groups ◽  
Effective Decision Making

Aim: This study is the third in a series of investigations that explored the role of project user groups and how they impact on the design of a healthcare facility. Previous studies focused on a wide range of users, whereas this study sought the views of project clients. Background: The “project client” represents the organization responsible for the procurement of a healthcare facility. “Users” will work in or “use” that building. With the input of project clients, this research focused on the user group process required for Australian and New Zealand publicly funded healthcare projects. It sought lessons to improve the process for future projects. Methods: Previous research findings, and an expanded literature review examining participatory design, were used to develop questions for semistructured interviews with selected project clients. Responses were transcribed and analyzed in terms of themes and subthemes using reflexive thematic analysis to develop a narrative that reports and discusses the findings. Results: Although not all are recognized, many stakeholders influence design decisions. No history, rationale, terms of reference, or evaluations of the user group process were found, suggesting that although it is a “given,” the process could be enhanced. Useful suggestions for improving the user group process are offered. Conclusions: Evaluating the user group process, and learning from alternative approaches, may improve its outcomes. A project charter and terms of reference would support more effective decision making, while best practice guidelines and education for user group participants should be considered.

Mixed-Methods Evaluation as Scaffold to the Development of a Mobile Health Application to Support the Prescription of Wheelchairs and Postural Support Devices (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adriana Klein ◽  
Roseli de Deus Lopes ◽  
Rodrigo Suigh
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Mobile Health ◽  
Second Phase ◽  
The Third ◽  
Evaluation Approach ◽  
Mixed Methods Evaluation ◽  
Usability Tests ◽  
Third Phase ◽  
Postural Support ◽  
Support Devices

BACKGROUND EasySeating is a mobile health (mHealth) app that supports the prescription of wheelchair and postural support devices (WPSD). It can be used by occupational therapists (OT) and physiotherapists (PT) who prescribe WPSD. The app offers a standardization of the prescription procedure, showing images, metrics and details that guide the prescriber to decide on the best equipment. It was developed with an iterative mixed-methods evaluation approach. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the processes involved in the prescription of WPSD and to propose, develop and evaluate a mHealth to support OT and PT prescribers. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the processes involved in the prescription of WPSD and to propose, develop and evaluate a mHealth to support OT and PT prescribers. METHODS This study was divided into three phases and was carried out as an iterative process composed of user consulting/testing (using a mixed-methods evaluation approach), system (re)design and software development. The first phase consisted of the collection of qualitative and quantitative data to map and understand the users requirements and of the development of the first prototype (v1) of the app. This data collection was performed through semi-structured interviews with 14 OT and PT prescribers, 5 specialized technicians and 5 WPSD users. The second phase aimed at improving the overall functionality of the app and consisted in the development, test and evaluation of the prototypes v1, v2, v3 and v4. A total of 59 prescribers tested and evaluated these prototypes by means of open interviews, semi-structured questionnaires and focus groups. The third phase focused in the usability aspects of the app. It consisted in the development and test of the prototype v5. Eight technology specialists assessed its usability through heuristics evaluation. RESULTS Data collected in phase one indicated there is a lack of standardization on the prescription of postural support devices (PSD). A divergent nomenclature for the PSDs was also found and classified in eight categories. These information guided the development of the first prototype of the EasySeating app. Phase two results pointed that the prescribers value the insertion of the app into their clinical practice, as it accelerates and increases the quality of the evaluation process and improves the organization of the prescription information. Significant suggestions for the improvement of the app were given during the users tests, including the use of images to represent the PSDs. The usability tests from the third phase revealed two strong issues that must be solved: the need of greater feedback and failures in the persistence of the input data. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that there is a lack of systematization of the WPSD prescription process. The evaluation of the developed EasySeating app demonstrated that there is a potential to standardize, integrate and organize the WPSD prescription information, supporting and facilitating the decision making process of the prescribers. CLINICALTRIAL This study was approved by the Research Ethics Board of the Universidade de São Paulo (registered protocol n°53929516.6.0000.0065) URL - http://plataformabrasil.saude.gov.br/login.jsf

scholarly journals Validation and standardization of DNA extraction and library construction methods for metagenomics-based human fecal microbiome measurements

Microbiome ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Dieter M. Tourlousse ◽  
Koji Narita ◽  
Takamasa Miura ◽  
Mitsuo Sakamoto ◽  
Akiko Ohashi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Dna Extraction ◽  
High Throughput Sequencing ◽  
Performance Metrics ◽  
Collaborative Study ◽  
Human Microbiome ◽  
Second Phase ◽  
Intermediate Precision ◽  
Fecal Microbiome ◽  
Library Construction ◽  
Wide Range

Abstract Background Validation and standardization of methodologies for microbial community measurements by high-throughput sequencing are needed to support human microbiome research and its industrialization. This study set out to establish standards-based solutions to improve the accuracy and reproducibility of metagenomics-based microbiome profiling of human fecal samples. Results In the first phase, we performed a head-to-head comparison of a wide range of protocols for DNA extraction and sequencing library construction using defined mock communities, to identify performant protocols and pinpoint sources of inaccuracy in quantification. In the second phase, we validated performant protocols with respect to their variability of measurement results within a single laboratory (that is, intermediate precision) as well as interlaboratory transferability and reproducibility through an industry-based collaborative study. We further ascertained the performance of our recommended protocols in the context of a community-wide interlaboratory study (that is, the MOSAIC Standards Challenge). Finally, we defined performance metrics to provide best practice guidance for improving measurement consistency across methods and laboratories. Conclusions The validated protocols and methodological guidance for DNA extraction and library construction provided in this study expand current best practices for metagenomic analyses of human fecal microbiota. Uptake of our protocols and guidelines will improve the accuracy and comparability of metagenomics-based studies of the human microbiome, thereby facilitating development and commercialization of human microbiome-based products.

Nonlinear dynamic behaviour of guy cables in turbulent winds

2001 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
pp. 98-110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bruce F Sparling ◽  
Alan G Davenport
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element ◽  
Dynamic Behaviour ◽  
Aerodynamic Drag ◽  
Numerical Study ◽  
Horizontal Displacement ◽  
Wind Loading ◽  
Second Phase ◽  
Nonlinear Coupling ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Cable Vibrations

Large amplitude cable vibrations are difficult to predict using linear theory due to the presence of sag in the suspended profile. A numerical study was therefore undertaken to investigate the dynamic behaviour of inclined cables excited by imposed displacements. To model the nonlinear nature of cable response, a time domain finite element approach was adopted using nonlinear catenary cable elements. Two types of horizontal displacement patterns were enforced at the upper end of the guy. In the first phase of the study, harmonic displacement histories with a wide range of forcing frequencies were considered. In the second phase, random enforced displacements were used to simulate the motion of a guyed mast in gusty winds. The influence of aerodynamic drag and damping forces was investigated by performing analyses under still air, steady wind, and turbulent wind conditions. It was found that nonlinear coupling of related harmonic response components was significant at certain critical frequencies, particular when the excitation was harmonic and acted in the plane of the guy. Positive aerodynamic damping was shown to effectively suppress resonant and nonlinear coupling response.Key words: cables, structural dynamics, wind loading, finite element method, nonlinear analysis, guyed towers.

Constructing New Product Development for the DC Cooling Fan Industry: ISO/TS16949 Procedures

2013 ◽  
Vol 470 ◽  
pp. 392-395
Author(s):  
Tzu Chuan Chou ◽  
Sheng Hsiung Wu ◽  
Ming Hung Shu
Keyword(s):  
Product Development ◽  
New Product Development ◽  
Developmental Process ◽  
New Product ◽  
Management Tools ◽  
Market Shares ◽  
Sales And Marketing ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Cooling Fans ◽  
Customer Services

Applications of DC cooling fans in auto electronics cover a wide range of areas. Since they all need to meet the requirement of the clients in providing customized products, many product combinations have been developed. In the past, when DC cooling fans manufacturers have not implemented the requirements of TS16949 and the core tools, their developmental process could only meet the spirit of process-orientation suggested by ISO9001. There was an obvious deficiency in terms of the quality management tools during the development and manufacturing processes, as well as the development information that should be produced; therefore, they were unable to meet the requirements of TS16949. This study constructs a new product development (NPD) procedure through the application of the five core tools that meets the requirements of TS16949, and satisfies the characteristics of the DC cooling fans industry. With this process, the Taiwanese DC cooling fans industry can effectively control the entire production process, from sales and marketing, R&D, manufacturing, to customer services. Moreover, the manufacturers could not only elevate their ability to self-manage, but also meet the requirements and gain market shares in the international automobile supply chain.

The Design and Development of an Electrically Operated Fuel Control Valve for Industrial Gas Turbines

1991 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. G. Salsi ◽  
F. S. Bhinder
Keyword(s):  
Gas Turbines ◽  
Entire Range ◽  
Control Valve ◽  
Performance Characteristics ◽  
Design And Development ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Industrial Gas Turbines

Industrial gas turbines operate over a wide range of combinations of loads and speeds. The fuel control valve must be designed to cover the entire range precisely. The design of an electrically operated fuel control valve is described and comparison between the predicted and measured performance characteristics is shown.

scholarly journals A protocol for an intercomparison of biodiversity and ecosystem services models using harmonized land-use and climate scenarios

2018 ◽  
Vol 11 (11) ◽  
pp. 4537-4562 ◽  
Author(s):  
HyeJin Kim ◽  
Isabel M. D. Rosa ◽  
Rob Alkemade ◽  
Paul Leadley ◽  
George Hurtt ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Land Use ◽  
Ecosystem Services ◽  
Biological Diversity ◽  
Multiple Scales ◽  
Convention On Biological Diversity ◽  
Second Phase ◽  
Intergovernmental Panel ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Global Impacts

Abstract. To support the assessments of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), the IPBES Expert Group on Scenarios and Models is carrying out an intercomparison of biodiversity and ecosystem services models using harmonized scenarios (BES-SIM). The goals of BES-SIM are (1) to project the global impacts of land-use and climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services (i.e., nature's contributions to people) over the coming decades, compared to the 20th century, using a set of common metrics at multiple scales, and (2) to identify model uncertainties and research gaps through the comparisons of projected biodiversity and ecosystem services across models. BES-SIM uses three scenarios combining specific Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSPs) and Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) – SSP1xRCP2.6, SSP3xRCP6.0, SSP5xRCP8.6 – to explore a wide range of land-use change and climate change futures. This paper describes the rationale for scenario selection, the process of harmonizing input data for land use, based on the second phase of the Land Use Harmonization Project (LUH2), and climate, the biodiversity and ecosystem services models used, the core simulations carried out, the harmonization of the model output metrics, and the treatment of uncertainty. The results of this collaborative modeling project will support the ongoing global assessment of IPBES, strengthen ties between IPBES and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) scenarios and modeling processes, advise the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on its development of a post-2020 strategic plans and conservation goals, and inform the development of a new generation of nature-centred scenarios.

scholarly journals Publishing case studies in health sciences librarianship

2017 ◽  
Vol 105 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Katherine G. Akers, PhD ◽  
Kathleen Amos, MLIS, AHIP
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Current Issue ◽  
Health Sciences ◽  
Editorial Team ◽  
Medical Library ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Research And Education

While most issues of the Journal of the Medical Library Association (JMLA) contain one or two case studies, the JMLA editorial team is pleased to note that the current issue contains six case studies, highlighting a wide range of library-driven initiatives to support health sciences research and education.

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