@Article{info:doi/10.2196/68491, author="Chen, George Junye and Lai, Xing Hao and Wong, Min Shi and Pan, Te Terry Ling and Lim, Luen Er and Liau, Glen Zi Qiang", title="Outcomes of an Advanced Epic Personalization Course on Clinician Efficiency through Use of Electronic Medical Records: Retrospective Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="20", volume="9", pages="e68491", keywords="medical informatics", keywords="electronic medical records", keywords="EMR", keywords="electronic medical records personalization", keywords="Epic", keywords="electronic health records", keywords="EHR", keywords="clinician efficiency", abstract="Background: Since Singapore's first migration to Epic in 2022, we have been conducting an advanced Epic personalization course twice a year for health care professionals with at least 3 months of experience using the system. Electronic medical records education is an under-recognized pillar in reducing health information technology-related stress and clinician burnout. Objective: The intent of the course is to improve clinician efficiency through customization and personalization of Epic interfaces. We hypothesized that compared to their colleagues, trained clinicians would demonstrate significant quantitative improvements in use of the Epic system after our course. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis from July 2022 to January 2024, including 17 clinicians among 77 individuals who attended our course. Recruitment was done through digital mailers sent out via the local hospital announcement channels. Interested clinicians were able to register for our course via the National University Of Singapore website. Our one-day course involves physical lessons and interprofessional, case-based discussions emphasizing a wide range of high-yield Epic functionalities with practice exercises, such as drafting referral letter templates. Three months of pre- and postcourse Epic usage statistics of the trained clinicians were retrieved based on aggregate data provided by Epic Singapore. Performance metrics included documentation length, time spent in Epic functionalities and use of SmartPhrases, order sets and preference lists. Results: At three months post-course, documentation length decreased by 45.8\% (711.8 characters) compared to a 22.2\% (126.4 characters) increase among controls. Trained clinicians demonstrated a 2.47-fold increase in use of order sets from 16.2\% to 40\%, and a 49.9\% increase in orders from preference lists after the course, from 35.1\% to 52.6\%. In total, trained clinicians demonstrated a 1.8-fold increase in combined use of orders from preference lists or order sets after the course, from 51.4\% to 92.6\%. The number of SmartPhrases created by trained clinicians was 5.64 times higher than among controls, in addition to a 5.57-fold higher use of Quick Filters than controls. Moreover, time in the Chart Review section per day decreased by 29.3\% (4.6 min) among trained clinicians versus an increase of 14.6\% (2.8 min) among controls. Compared to controls, trained clinicians spent 36.7\% (219.6 min) less time in the Epic system per day, 56.6\% (29 min) less time on Notes per day, and 57.5\% (10.7 min) less time on orders per day. Conclusions: Overall, trained clinicians demonstrated more efficiency in their use of Epic, with reduced time spent across various functionalities. Increased use of Smart Tools, including SmartPhrases and Quick Filters was also observed among trained clinicians, which indicated efficiency in reducing total usage time. These findings demonstrated broad improvements across multiple physician efficiency metrics among participating clinicians of our advanced Epic personalization course. These gains may contribute to improved mental health among health care professionals and enhanced productivity within health care systems. ", doi="10.2196/68491", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68491" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63257, author="Mazzer, Kelly and Curll, Sonia and Barzinjy, Hakar and Goecke, Roland and Larsen, Mark and Batterham, J. Philip and Titov, Nickolai and Rickwood, Debra", title="Changes in Mental State for Help-Seekers of Lifeline Australia's Online Chat Service: Lexical Analysis Approach", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="20", volume="9", pages="e63257", keywords="crisis helpline", keywords="lexical analysis", keywords="mental health", keywords="outcomes", keywords="distress", keywords="affective computing", keywords="Lexical", keywords="suicidal", keywords="suicide", keywords="help-seeker", keywords="help-seeking", keywords="emotion", keywords="chat", keywords="mental state", keywords="caregivers", keywords="digital mental health", keywords="digital health", keywords="e-health", keywords="ANOVA", keywords="feasibility study", keywords="mental health intervention", keywords="crisis support", keywords="online communities", keywords="support service", keywords="online support", abstract="Background: Mental health challenges are escalating globally, with increasing numbers of individuals accessing crisis helplines through various modalities. Despite this growing demand, there is limited understanding of how crisis helplines benefit help-seekers over the course of a conversation. Affective computing has the potential to transform this area of research, yet it remains relatively unexplored, partly due to the scarcity of available helpline data. Objective: This study aimed to explore the feasibility of using lexical analysis to track dynamic changes in the mental state of help-seekers during online chat conversations with a crisis helpline. Methods: Lexical analysis was conducted on 6618 deidentified online chat transcripts collected by Lifeline Australia between April and June 2023 using the validated Empath lexical categories of Positive Emotion, Negative Emotion, Suffering, and Optimism. Furthermore, 2 context-specific categories, Distress and Suicidality, were also developed and analyzed to reflect crisis support language. Correlation analyses evaluated the relationships between the 6 lexical categories. One-way ANOVAs assessed changes in each lexical category across 3 conversation phases (beginning, middle, and end). Trend analyses using regression modeling examined the direction and strength of changes in lexical categories across 9 overlapping conversation windows (20\% size and 50\% step overlap). Results: Significant changes were observed across conversation phases. The context-specific categories showed the strongest improvements from the beginning to end phase of conversation, with a large reduction in Distress (d=0.79) and a moderate reduction in Suicidality (d=0.49). The most frequently occurring terms representing Distress were ``hard,'' ``bad,'' and ``down,'' and for Suicidality were ``suicide,'' ``stop,'' and ``hurt.'' The negatively framed Empath categories also significantly reduced, with moderate effect sizes for Suffering (d=0.49) and Negative Emotion (d=0.39). There were also significant but small reductions in the positively framed Empath categories of Positive Emotion (d=0.15) and Optimism (d=0.07) from the beginning to end phase of conversation. Correlation coefficients indicated the lexical categories captured related but distinct constructs (r=.34 to r=0.82). Trend analyses revealed a consistent downward trajectory across most lexical categories. Distress showed the steepest decline (slope=?0.15, R{\texttwosuperior}=0.97), followed by Suffering (slope=?0.11, R{\texttwosuperior}=0.96), Negative Emotion (slope=?0.10, R{\texttwosuperior}=0.69), and Suicidality (slope=?0.06, R{\texttwosuperior}=0.88). Positive Emotion showed a slight negative trend (slope=?0.04, R{\texttwosuperior}=0.54), while Optimism remained relatively stable across the conversation windows (slope=0.01, R{\texttwosuperior}=0.13). Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of using lexical analysis to represent and monitor mental state changes during online crisis support interactions. The findings highlight the potential for integrating affective computing into crisis helplines to enhance service delivery and outcome measurement. Future research should focus on validating these findings and exploring how lexical analysis can be applied to improve real-time support to those in crisis. ", doi="10.2196/63257", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63257" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63893, author="Penfornis, M. Kristell and Albers, Nele and Brinkman, Willem-Paul and Neerincx, A. Mark and Evers, WM Andrea and Gebhardt, A. Winifred and Meijer, Eline", title="User Experiences With Digital Future-Self Interventions in the Contexts of Smoking and Physical Inactivity: Mixed Methods Multistudy Exploration", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="20", volume="9", pages="e63893", keywords="smoking", keywords="physical activity", keywords="future-self intervention", keywords="user experiences", keywords="multistudy", keywords="mixed methods", abstract="Background: Smoking and physical inactivity compromise health, especially in combination. Interventions to promote smoking cessation and increased physical activity (PA) often lack impact, especially in the long term. Digital future-self interventions (FSIs), which prompt individuals to imagine who they do and do not want to become (ie, their desired and undesired future selves), show promise in encouraging sustainable changes in both behaviors. However, knowledge of user experiences with digital FSIs is limited. A deeper understanding of these experiences could help optimize FSIs, enhancing their efficacy in supporting smoking cessation and increased PA sustainably. Objective: This study examined behavioral, cognitive, and affective experiences with digital FSIs focused on smoking, PA, or both. Potential differences in user experiences based on behavior (smoking vs PA), polarity (desired vs undesired future self), and modality (verbal vs visual description of future selves) were explored. Methods: Secondary analyses of quantitative and qualitative survey data from 3 studies using digital FSIs as a means to encourage smoking cessation or increase PA were conducted. In study 1, participants (N=144) thought about how it would be to complete the FSI. In studies 2 (N=447) and 3 (N=87), they completed an FSI. Each study highlighted different aspects of user experiences with FSIs, namely, behavioral (eg, time spent), cognitive (eg, mental effort exerted), or affective (eg, emotions) experiences. Quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated for a comprehensive interpretation. Results: Regarding behavioral experiences, participants completed future-self tasks promptly (mean 6.64, SD 8.30 minutes), spent less time completing the desired- versus undesired-future-self (P<.001; $\eta$p2=0.227) and verbal versus visual (P=.03; $\eta$p2=0.060; quantitative) tasks, and integrated the tasks into their lives (qualitative). Despite tasks being preparatory and not actively encouraging behavior change, multiple participants reported implementing changes in their smoking or PA (qualitative). Regarding cognitive experiences, moderate effort (mean 5.85/10, SD 2.56) was exerted on the tasks regardless of behavior (P=.69; $\eta$p2=0.002), modality (P=.45; $\eta$p2=0.004), or polarity (P=.69; $\eta$p2=0.002; quantitative). Experiences of task difficulty were inconsistent across studies, individuals, and tasks, although mental visualization and describing one's future self using images were consistently reported as challenging (quantitative and qualitative). Future-self tasks were reported to prompt cognitive processes such as contemplating consequences of smoking and PA behavior (qualitative). Regarding affective experiences, desired- and undesired-future-self tasks elicited different emotions (P<.001; $\eta$p2=0.630; quantitative). Desired-future-self tasks were perceived as enjoyable and happiness inducing, whereas undesired-future-self tasks were perceived as confronting and unpleasant, evoking feelings of sadness, fear, and anger (quantitative and qualitative). Conclusions: Digital FSIs appeared to be a time-efficient, feasible, and acceptable way of strengthening identities as a means to encourage smoking cessation and PA. Findings support continued implementation of digital FSIs, although further research is required to optimize their operationalization. Avenues in that regard are proposed and discussed. ", doi="10.2196/63893", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63893", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40540315" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/51831, author="Bentlage, Ellen and del R{\'i}o Ponce, Alberto and Ahmed, Mona and Gangas, Pilar and Brach, Michael and Kurano, Alfonso Jorge and Men{\'e}ndez, Manuel Jos{\'e}", title="Cocreating a Mobile Health App Providing Physical Activity Recommendations for Older People Living With Parkinson Disease or Dementia: User-Centered Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="19", volume="9", pages="e51831", keywords="healthcare", keywords="physical activity", keywords="personalized recommendations", keywords="ICT", keywords="quality of life", keywords="codesign process", abstract="Background: The project ``Personalized Integrated Care Promoting Quality of Life for Older People'' aimed to develop an integrated care system based on information and communication technology to support older people living with Parkinson disease or dementia disease. One module focuses on physical activity (PA) recommendations. Objective: The objective of the study is to describe the development process of the PA recommendation system from the behavior-change and technical perspective, followed by its content and satisfaction evaluation. Methods: This study describes the development of the PA recommendations based on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA). A first pilot assessed the feasibility of the overall PROCare4Life system (previously reported). In a second pilot, users evaluated the content of the PA recommendations during 40 intervention days. In a third pilot, users evaluated their satisfaction with a mobile health satisfaction questionnaire. Results: The PA recommendations focused on different aspects of an adapted version of the HAPA model, while they simultaneously approached 3 activation factors: skills, knowledge, and motivation. The content was generally well-received, with most users rating key sections as excellent or good, particularly ``benefits and consequences of PA'' (34/43, 79\%) and ``five golden rules of PA'' (34/41, 83\%). However, less than a third gave high ratings to ``PA guidelines of the WHO'' (9/36, 25\%) and ``practical tips for PA'' (10/35, 29\%). Regarding satisfaction, at least half of the 237 participants found it easy and good to use, with acceptable time spent and clear instructions. Compared with agreement or neutral evaluations, most disagreed with negative statements about it being time-consuming (111/237, 47\%) or boring (99/237, 42\%). While 41\% (97/237) recommended it and 44\% (104/237) felt it helped them understand lifestyle benefits, fewer agreed the recommender system helped them set personal goals (78/237, 33\%) or motivated change (88/237, 37\%). Users found the recommendations understandable, engaging, and practical, though some aspects, such as motivation and goal setting, received criticism. Challenges in pilot 2, particularly related to setup difficulties and limited participation, led to system modifications in pilot 3 that improved usability and data collection. Conclusions: It has been confirmed that cocreating and iteratively testing the contents on HAPA and approaching the activation factors contributed to increasing the acceptance of the PA. The intervention development was based on user needs and used comparable methodology across user profiles and pilot phases. All in all, users were positive about the content. The research team has identified that digital systems, that provide monitoring functions of the mobile health app and Fitbit wristband are considered advantageous by participants in the cocreation process. Addressing the activation factors can be recommended for researchers and technical developers of other projects. Future adjustments to the design should focus on personalization to encourage the adoption of a healthier lifestyle. ", doi="10.2196/51831", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e51831" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66596, author="Savitz, T. Samuel and Stevens, A. Maria and Nath, Bidisha and D'Onofrio, Gail and Melnick, R. Edward and Jeffery, M. Molly", title="Health Services Usage in Patients Receiving Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder or Long-Term Opioid Therapy for Chronic Pain: Retrospective Cohort Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="19", volume="9", pages="e66596", keywords="telemedicine", keywords="opioids", keywords="buprenorphine", keywords="health care utilization", keywords="telehealth", keywords="utilization", keywords="usage", keywords="claims data", keywords="services", keywords="OUD", keywords="opioid use disorder", keywords="retrospective", keywords="cohort", keywords="pain", keywords="chronic", abstract="Background: Patients using buprenorphine for opioid use disorder (OUD) or long-term opioid therapy for chronic pain are at risk for poor outcomes if care is interrupted. Both treatments are highly regulated, with prepandemic requirements for in-person care. COVID-19 may have resulted in barriers to accessing in-person care through disruptions in care delivery. However, there were also opportunities for improved access to telemedicine visits through policy changes. Objective: This study aims to evaluate changes in health care and telemedicine use during the COVID-19 pandemic among patients using buprenorphine for OUD and long-term opioid therapy for chronic pain. Methods: We used administrative claims data for commercially insured and Medicare Advantage patients from the OptumLabs Data Warehouse. We included patients using buprenorphine for OUD or long-term opioid therapy for chronic pain compared to patients with another chronic condition without similar prescribing restrictions: serious mental illness. We evaluated changes in in-person and telemedicine care by comparing rates of services by physician specialty, type of service, and the percentage of visits through telemedicine. Changes in usage were measured using a difference-in-differences approach with Poisson regression. The results are presented as incident rate ratios (IRR). Results: We found declines in in-person visits in April 2020 across the buprenorphine, chronic opioids, and serious mental illness cohorts. The largest declines were for specialties that rely on in-person treatment, such as emergency medicine (IRR range 0.60-0.62), orthopedics (IRR 0.48-0.52), cardiology (IRR 0.64-0.78), and oncology (IRR 0.77-0.81). In contrast, there were smaller declines for specialties that could more easily transition to telemedicine, namely family practice (IRR 0.80-0.92), mental health (IRR 0.92-1.01), and pain medicine (IRR 0.87-1.08). The percentage of telemedicine visits for these specialties ranged from 30\% to 51\% in the period. There were also large declines for specific services, including emergency medicine (IRR 0.53-0.89), physical therapy (IRR 0.24-0.72), and new office visits (IRR 0.38-0.64). By January 2022, usage was similar to prepandemic levels, but the percentage of telemedicine visits remained elevated for family practice (10\%-14\%), mental health (34\%-43\%), and pain medicine (11\%-15\%) through January 2022. The results were similar across the cohorts, although in April 2020 there was a modest decrease (IRR 0.87) for pain medicine in the serious mental illness cohort, but the differences were not significant for the buprenorphine (IRR 1.08) and chronic opioids (IRR: 0.99) cohorts. Conclusions: These findings highlight the value of telemedicine to maintain access among people at risk for poor outcomes if care is interrupted. While flexibilities in the regulation of telemedicine services that arose during the pandemic have been temporarily extended multiple times, they are set to expire in 2025 without further action. Making these changes to telemedicine regulation permanent may benefit vulnerable patient populations who face access to care challenges. ", doi="10.2196/66596", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66596" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65732, author="Vilela-Estrada, L. Ana and Villarreal-Zegarra, David and Mayo-Puchoc, Nikol and Holt, Nicola and Fl{\'o}rez-Varela, {\'A}ngela and Fung, Catherine and Ariza-Salazar, Karen and Carbonetti, Luis Fernando and Flores, Sumiko and Carbonel, Adriana and Olivar, Natividad and Gomez-Restrepo, Carlos and Brusco, Ignacio Luis and Priebe, Stefan and Diez-Canseco, Francisco", title="Fluctuations in Daily Happiness and Nervousness Based on Depressive and Anxious Symptoms in Adolescents or Young Adults Across 3 Latin American Cities: Experience Sampling Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="19", volume="9", pages="e65732", keywords="experience sampling method", keywords="mood variability", keywords="mood swings", keywords="happiness", keywords="pediatric", keywords="adolescence", keywords="teenager", keywords="young adult", keywords="mental health", keywords="mental illness", keywords="mental disorder", keywords="mental health resources", keywords="Latin America", keywords="Colombia", keywords="Argentina", keywords="Peru", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Experience sampling methods (ESMs) have been used in clinical research to collect data on emotional and behavioral states in real-life contexts among different populations. Although the use of ESMs in mental health has increased, it has not been applied to larger samples of young people in disadvantaged urban settings. Objective: This study aimed to determine the extent to which mood status scores (happiness and nervousness) vary during a week, as a function of having or not having symptoms of depression or anxiety, in a sample of adolescents and young adults in the cities of Buenos Aires, Bogot{\'a}, and Lima. A secondary objective was to identify factors associated with mood scores, including sociodemographics, quality of life, and daily activities. Methods: This study was part of the Building Resilience and Resources to Reduce Mental Distress in Young People in Latin America research program, which focuses on mental health resources for young people. Participants (n=143) aged 15?24 years completed daily ESM assessments over a week using the mobile app, resulting in 5246 reports. Data were analyzed using descriptive analyses with 2-tailed t tests and chi-square tests, and multilevel linear regression was used to examine associations between depressive or anxiety symptoms, mood variability, and factors influencing mean mood. Finally, Spearman correlation assessed the relationship between happiness and nervousness. Results: The analysis revealed that depressive or anxiety symptoms were not significantly associated with increased variability in mood scores (happiness P=.40 and nervousness P=.84). However, males exhibited greater variability in happiness and nervousness scores (P<.001) than females. Additionally, young people showed higher variability in nervousness than adolescents (P=.02). Regarding average happiness scores, young adults reported higher average happiness than adolescents ($\beta$=.604; P=.003). Engaging in structured activities (eg, sports, music lessons, and dance classes) was associated with increased happiness ($\beta$=.266; P=.01). In contrast, instrumental activities (eg, cleaning, shopping, meal preparation, or taking medication; $\beta$=?.144; P=.02) and work-related tasks ($\beta$=?.205; P=.01) were linked to lower happiness and higher nervousness ($\beta$=.387; P<.001). Quality of life was positively correlated with happiness ($\beta$=.486; P<.001) and negatively correlated with nervousness ($\beta$=?.273; P=.005). Finally, as for average scores, a strong negative correlation was found between happiness and nervousness (rs=?0.92; P<.001). The simple multilevel analysis showed that for each point of happiness, nervousness decreased by 0.45 points (95\% CI ?0.48 to ?0.42; t3=?41.7; P<.001; SE 0.01). Conclusions: Our study reveals that depressive and anxiety symptoms do not significantly affect the variability in predicted happiness and nervousness scores. However, we observed that demographic factors, such as gender and age, play a role in emotional variability. ", doi="10.2196/65732", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65732" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70472, author="Benzo, M. Roberto and Singh, Rujul and Presley, J. Carolyn and Tetrick, K. Macy and Chaplow, L. Zachary and Hery, M. Chloe and Yu, Jane and Washington, Peter and Penedo, J. Frank and Paskett, D. Electra and Lugade, Vipul and Fortune, Emma", title="Comparing the Accuracy of Different Wearable Activity Monitors in Patients With Lung Cancer and Providing Initial Recommendations: Protocol for a Pilot Validation Study", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="Jun", day="19", volume="14", pages="e70472", keywords="physical activity monitoring", keywords="wearable devices", keywords="validation study", keywords="lung cancer", keywords="consumer technology", keywords="Fitbit", keywords="ActiGraph", keywords="activPAL3 micro", keywords="cancer survivorship", keywords="digital health", abstract="Background: Wearable activity monitors (WAMs) provide insights into physical activity (PA) and are widely used in behavioral interventions and cancer survivorship research. However, validation studies of wearable devices in populations with cancer are scarce, and existing studies using activity monitors in patients with cancer lack standardization. This gap is particularly significant in patients with lung cancer (LC), who often experience unique mobility challenges and gait impairments that may affect device accuracy. This study addresses this gap by validating the Fitbit Charge 6, ActiGraph LEAP, and activPAL3 micro in patients with LC in both laboratory and free-living conditions and developing a standardized framework for assessing wearable devices in populations with cancer and impaired mobility. Objective: This study aims to validate and compare the accuracy of consumer-grade (Fitbit Charge 6) and research-grade (activPAL3 micro and ActiGraph LEAP) WAMs in patients with LC under both laboratory and free-living conditions. Moreover, this protocol aims to establish standardized procedures that can be adapted for validating current and future generations of wearable devices while accounting for disease-specific factors that may impact measurement accuracy. Methods: In total, 15 adults diagnosed with LC (stages 1-4) will participate in laboratory and free-living protocols, wearing Fitbit Charge 6, activPAL3 micro, and ActiGraph LEAP devices simultaneously. The laboratory protocol will consist of a series of structured activities, including variable-time walking trials, sitting and standing tests, posture changes, and gait speed assessments. Activities will be video recorded for validation. In the free-living protocol, participants will wear the devices continuously for 7 days except during water-based activities. WAM-based outcome measures will include step count; time spent at light, moderate, and vigorous PA intensity levels; posture; and posture changes (only the activPAL3 micro measured posture). Validated survey instruments will be administered both before and after WAM data collection to control for potential confounding factors that may influence movement patterns and device accuracy. Laboratory-based validity measures will compare WAM data to video-recorded observations. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and agreement will also be determined. Free-living agreement between devices will be assessed using Bland-Altman plots, intraclass correlation analysis, and 95\% limits of agreement. Results: Data collection is ongoing, with 11 participants enrolled and 7 (64\%) having completed both in-laboratory and free-living protocols. On average, enrolled participants are aged 63.0 (SD 7.8; range 50.0-73.0) years, with 8 (73\%) participants being women. Participant enrollment is expected to conclude in mid-2025, and initial findings are expected to be disseminated by the end of 2025. Conclusions: This is the first study that validates WAM accuracy for populations with LC while providing comprehensive recommendations for future validation studies. This study will provide critical insights into the accuracy and reliability of WAMs for assessing PA in LC survivors, which are essential for interpreting clinical research and informing future interventions. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/70472 ", doi="10.2196/70472", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e70472", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40536804" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/72077, author="Loades, Elizabeth Maria and Perry, Grace and Marshall, Noah", title="Investigating Project Care UK, a Web-Based Self-Help Single-Session Intervention for Youth Mental Health: Program Evaluation", journal="JMIR Ment Health", year="2025", month="Jun", day="18", volume="12", pages="e72077", keywords="depression", keywords="adolescent mental health", keywords="scalable interventions", keywords="digital mental health intervention", keywords="early help", keywords="single-session intervention", abstract="Background: Psychological distress becomes more common during adolescence, yet many young people struggle to access clinic-based mental health care. Digital, self-help single-session interventions (SSIs) could extend current provision and overcome barriers to help seeking. Objective: This study aims to pilot Project Care UK, a self-compassion--focused SSI, to examine its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy for UK adolescents aged between 13 and 18 years. Methods: We used a single-arm, within-subjects pre-post intervention program evaluation. Consenting participants completed a demographic survey and clinical measures at baseline. Self-assessments of hope, hopelessness, negative beliefs about self-compassion, and help seeking were measured immediately before and after the intervention. Acceptability and feasibility were measured after the intervention using the Program Feedback Scale and study completion metrics. Preliminary efficacy was evaluated using linear mixed-effects models. The study protocol was preregistered on the Open Science Framework before publication. Results: Of the 813 individuals who gave consent for the study, 714 (87.8\%) initiated the preintervention assessment survey, 610 (75\%) initiated the intervention, 341 (41.9\%) initiated the Program Feedback Scale, and 329 (40.5\%) initiated the postintervention assessment survey. The sample consisted of adolescents (mean age 15.38, SD 1.58 y) who were predominantly assigned female sex at birth, were White, and were nonheterosexual. Intervention completers widely endorsed the intervention as acceptable. Significant, favorable pre- and postintervention changes were observed across all outcome measures, including increased hope (Cohen d=0.72, P<.001), decreased hopelessness (Cohen d=--0.73, P<.001), and reduced negative beliefs about self-compassion (Cohen d=--0.64, P<.001). No significant changes were observed for help-seeking intentions. Conclusions: Although not all participants completed the study, our findings show that recruiting adolescents in the United Kingdom is feasible; completers indicated that the intervention was acceptable, and they showed improvements in the proximal outcomes of hope, hopelessness, and beliefs about self-compassion. More extensive follow-up over time and comparator intervention analyses would allow more robust conclusions to be drawn. ", doi="10.2196/72077", url="https://mental.jmir.org/2025/1/e72077" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/73009, author="Miyosawa, Yukihide and Hirabayashi, Koichi and Yamada, Kodai and Kobayashi, Fumiya and Ogihara, Nanami and Takeda, Noa and Okamura, Eri and Matsumura, Shogo", title="Development of a Serious Game to Simulate Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Experiences: Collaborative Quasi-Experimental Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="18", volume="9", pages="e73009", keywords="collaborative development", keywords="medical education", keywords="neonatal care", keywords="neonatal intensive care unit", keywords="physicians and students", keywords="serious game", keywords="simulation", abstract="Background: Opportunities for neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) training are limited for medical and nursing students due to patient safety concerns and the complexities of neonatal care. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted clinical training opportunities, further underscoring the need for alternative educational tools that can provide immersive and practical learning experiences. Serious games have garnered attention as potential tools for medical education; however, few are designed to simulate the complete NICU environment and its unique challenges. Objective: To address the educational gaps in neonatal care training, we aimed to develop and evaluate a serious game that provides a comprehensive NICU simulation experience for students and the general public. Methods: The game was developed over 14 months by a collaborative team that included a neonatologist, 4 medical students, and 1 art student, with a total cost of US \$10,000. Initially created in TyranoBuilder (STRIKEWORKS), the game was later redeveloped in Unity with Naninovel to support multilingual functionality. Structured as a 6-chapter visual novel, the game follows a high school student observing the NICU during a hospital internship. Scenario-based decision-making and interactive dialogues guide the player through both the clinical and emotional aspects of neonatal care. After completing the game, players were invited to participate in an optional web-based survey that assessed demographic information, gameplay quality, and educational value using Likert scales. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results: The game, titled First Steps in the NICU, was released for iOS, Android, and Steam. As of May 2025, it has been downloaded 2799 times (2260 on iOS and 539 on Android). A total of 160 survey responses were collected, with 46.3\% of respondents identifying as health care professionals or students. The majority of participants were female (114/160, 71.3\%) and aged 20-29 years (59/160, 36.9\%). Mean scores for length, difficulty, and gameplay were 3.05 (SD 0.62), 2.49 (SD 0.76), and 3.65 (SD 0.77), respectively, indicating a well-balanced design. The educational usefulness of the game received high ratings: empathy with the story (4.24), usefulness for knowledge acquisition (4.16), and effectiveness of serious games as a learning tool (4.37). No significant differences in evaluations were found between health care professionals and students and the general public, suggesting broad accessibility and appeal. Conclusions: We developed a low-cost serious game that simulates NICU experiences through collaboration between a neonatologist and students. The game received positive feedback and demonstrated educational value for a diverse audience. Positioned as formative research, this study highlights the potential of serious games to supplement neonatal care education. Future updates will incorporate user feedback, leading to improvements in gameplay and expanded content. ", doi="10.2196/73009", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e73009" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65235, author="Rai, Kaur Harleen and Miller, Morven and Leung, Steve and Macleod, Euan and Lennon, Marilyn", title="Patient and Public Perceptions of 3D Technologies (Models and Images) to Facilitate Health Care Consultations: Exploratory, Mixed Methods Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="18", volume="9", pages="e65235", keywords="3D technology", keywords="citizen science", keywords="public and patient involvement", keywords="health care", keywords="public perceptions", keywords="health care consultations", keywords="consultations", keywords="mixed methods study", keywords="information", keywords="shared decision-making", keywords="acceptability", keywords="innovative technology", keywords="web-based survey", keywords="public health", keywords="telephone interviews", keywords="willingness", keywords="qualitative study", abstract="Background: 3D technology, including models and images, can facilitate health care consultations by promoting a better understanding of information by patients and shared decision-making. However, little is yet known about the general public's perspectives about the acceptability of such innovative technology and how it can best be adopted into routine health care consultations. There is a need to explore both public and patient perceptions to avoid the risk of implementing 3D technologies that may not be acceptable or fit-for-purpose. Objective: This paper aimed to explore the patient and public perceptions of the use of 3D technology during health care consultations. Methods: This study adopted a citizen science approach using mixed methods to conduct (1) a short web-based survey with members of the public to gather a wide range of opinions regarding the use of various technologies for health care consultations; (2) a longer web-based survey to explore perceived barriers and opportunities people report specifically on the use of 3D technology; and (3) telephone interviews with patients who recently used 3D technology as part of their health care consultations. Results: A total of 211 participants completed the short survey, of which 25 went on to complete the longer survey. While members of the public were familiar with using various types of technologies during remote consultations, most participants did not have experience with using 3D technology. However, people reported that they could see the potential benefits of such technology to facilitate health care consultations. They expressed positive perceptions toward how this might assist in comprehension of a diagnosis and discussion of alternative treatment plans. They also mentioned potential benefits in relation to communication and shared decision-making either with their health care provider or with their friends and family. These potential benefits were confirmed through telephone interviews with 4 patients who also stressed potential barriers such as emotional distress caused by an overload of information as important considerations for wider implementation. Overall, there was a strong interest and willingness to use 3D technology in future health care consultations. Conclusions: The use of 3D technology in health care settings is now an option, but there is little research to date on how patients and the wider public might benefit from this. This mixed methods study has shown that people are accepting of 3D technology being used in health care consultations and that there might be real benefits to the patient. These include improved individual and shared decision-making around their treatment through the technology, making disease and treatment options easier to understand for patients. Since 3D technology can still be expensive, the benefits to the patient and health care professionals need to be captured and quantified in terms of reduced travel, efficient use of time, and overall better quality of care and clinical outcomes. ", doi="10.2196/65235", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65235" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70177, author="Zhu, Di and Al Mahmud, Abdullah and Liu, Wei", title="Effects of a Mobile Storytelling App (Huiyou) on Social Participation Among People With Mild Cognitive Impairment: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="Jun", day="18", volume="12", pages="e70177", keywords="digital storytelling", keywords="technology-based intervention", keywords="social participation", keywords="people with mild cognitive impairment", keywords="digital health", keywords="mobile apps", abstract="Background: As the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among older adults increases, so does the need to enhance social participation and cognitive functions through innovative interventions. Digital storytelling in group settings holds potential not only to foster social connections but also to integrate with traditional in-person activities, leveraging both for greater impact. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of the Huiyou app in supporting group-based storytelling activities, aiming to enhance social participation for people with MCI. We focused on the app's ability to improve storytelling goal attainment, social connectedness, self-efficacy, and subjective happiness, comparing these outcomes between the experimental and control groups. Methods: We randomly assigned 20 participants with MCI to either an intervention group or a control group, engaging them in the use of the Huiyou digital storytelling app over 4 weekly sessions of 45 minutes each. We measured outcomes through the Assessment of Life Habits questionnaire (77 items), particularly outdoor activities and interpersonal relationships; the Social Connectedness Scale--Revised (20 items); the General Self-Efficacy Scale (10 items), focusing on coping self-efficacy; and the Subjective Well-Being Scale (SWBS; 20 items), with a special emphasis on self-acceptance. Results: The sample had an average age of 69.7 (SD 3.21) years, with no significant (P=.23) baseline differences between groups in age, sex, or educational background. Cognitive function, assessed via the Montreal Cognitive Assessment--Chinese questionnaire, also showed no significant differences at baseline (P=.20). Specifically, significant enhancements in the outdoor activity (mean value difference 0.171, SD 0.353; Cohen d=1.046; P=.03) and interpersonal adaptation experience subscales of the SWBS (mean value difference 0.167, SD 0.247; Cohen d=1.290; P=.01) were noted. Notably, storytelling performance improved markedly, evidenced by increases in story sharing duration and complexity. Although overall improvements in Assessment of Life Habits (P=.14), Social Connectedness Scale--Revised (P=.59), and Subjective Well-Being Scale (P=.26) scores were not statistically significant, the large effect sizes observed suggest potential benefits of the Huiyou app that might be obscured by the study's small sample size. Conclusions: This study indicates that the Huiyou mobile storytelling app is feasible to enhance social participation and specific aspects of social functioning such as interpersonal adaptation for people with MCI. Despite the lack of significant changes in overall scores for key scales, observed effect sizes highlight a positive trend that merits further investigation. These results advocate for the continuation of digital intervention development to improve quality of life and social integration for individuals with MCI. ", doi="10.2196/70177", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e70177" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67398, author="Bakula, M. Dana and Zax, Alexandra and Edwards, Sarah and Nash, Kristina and Escobar, April and Graham, Rachel and Ricketts, Amy and Thompson, Ryan and Bullard, Sarah and Brogren, Julianne and Shimmens, Leah and Erickson, A. Lori", title="Applying the Nonadoption, Abandonment, Scale-Up, Spread, and Sustainability (NASSS) Framework to Adapt the CHAMP App for Pediatric Feeding Tube Weaning: Application and Case Report", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="16", volume="9", pages="e67398", keywords="gastric feeding tubes", keywords="mobile applications", keywords="interdisciplinary communication", keywords="feeding and eating disorders of childhood", keywords="case report", abstract="Background: Evidence-based tube feeding (TF) weaning involves reducing the volume of tube feeds to induce hunger, with interdisciplinary monitoring to allow for proactive medical, nutritional, and behavioral intervention as needed. This can be done outpatient; however, the current standard of care requires a high degree of medical monitoring and care coordination, which can be challenging to implement. The CHAMP App is a mobile app designed for remote patient monitoring of children born with congenital heart conditions who are at high risk for medical morbidity and mortality. The CHAMP App remote patient monitoring program would be ideally suited to improve medical monitoring and care coordination. Objective: This study aims to determine the feasibility of adapting the CHAMP App for children ready to wean from TF. Methods: We used the Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread, and Sustainability (NASSS) framework as a formative tool and conducted a case study beta test. Results: The level of complexity for the digital innovation's adaptation supported a high likelihood of success for the TF population. Most issues were simple, such as expanding the types of data that could be entered into the app, and some were more complicated, for instance, training all relevant staff to use and maintain the technology. The case study beta test was conducted with ``Greyson'', a 10-month old child weaning from TF (name changed for confidentiality). Once a week, the team reviewed the parent-entered data and communicated with Greyson's parents, recommending a 25\% reduction in tube feeding each week. With the CHAMP App facilitating 2-way communication between the family and the team, Greyson successfully transitioned from receiving 30\% of his feeds orally and 70\% via tube feeding to 100\% oral feedings over the course of 1 month in a home setting. Conclusions: The CHAMP App is likely to be incredibly valuable in TF weaning. The NASSS framework helped identify key considerations for adapting the CHAMP App for TF weaning at a Midwestern children's hospital. Interviews with the health care team highlighted issues like data entry expansion and staff training. The framework confirmed TF weaning as a suitable application with no major barriers. The CHAMP App successfully supported a test patient, Greyson, in weaning from his feeding tube. It may improve access, communication efficiency, and satisfaction among families and health care teams while reducing costs and enhancing safety monitoring. The app could also make TF weaning more accessible to families with lower health literacy. ", doi="10.2196/67398", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67398" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68516, author="Liu, Darren and Lin, Yufen and Yan, Runze and Wang, Zhiyuan and Bold, Delgersuren and Hu, Xiao", title="Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Digital Symptom Management in Oncology: The Development of CRCWeb", journal="JMIR Cancer", year="2025", month="Jun", day="16", volume="11", pages="e68516", keywords="colorectal cancer", keywords="health disparity", keywords="health equity", keywords="generative artificial intelligence", keywords="large language model", keywords="software engineering", keywords="artificial intelligence", abstract="International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/48499 ", doi="10.2196/68516", url="https://cancer.jmir.org/2025/1/e68516" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63424, author="Brambilla, Elena and Stendal, Karen and Sundling, Vibeke and Calogiuri, Giovanna", title="Nature Engagement Outcomes of Viewing Nature Through a 360{\textdegree} Video or a Tablet Screen: Randomized Trial", journal="JMIR Serious Games", year="2025", month="Jun", day="16", volume="13", pages="e63424", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="immersive virtual nature", keywords="nature connectedness", keywords="nature engagement", keywords="nature-based interventions", keywords="outdoor", keywords="green exercise", abstract="Background: Nature engagement, including affective and physical interactions with nature, is linked to a multitude of health and well-being benefits. Unfortunately, opportunities for engaging with nature are decreasing worldwide. University students, especially, are a demographic group that tends to engage little with nature. Immersive virtual nature (IVN; ie, digital nature content delivered through immersive devices, such as head-mounted displays) has been proposed as a medium to facilitate nature experiences and engagement. In recent years, 360{\textdegree} nature videos have emerged as an accessible way to create IVN content, although it is still unclear whether they can elicit presence and increase nature engagement to a greater extent than nature videos delivered through nonimmersive media. Objective: We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of nature videos as a medium to promote nature engagement among university students, comparing devices with different levels of immersion. Specifically, 2 experimental conditions were tested: a 360{\textdegree} nature video delivered through a head-mounted display (IVN) and a matching video displayed on a tablet screen (nonimmersive virtual nature). Methods: In total, 38 students were recruited at the library of a university campus and invited to participate in an organized hiking tour at the location displayed during the virtual nature experience. They were then randomized, using a random number generator, to either the IVN (n=20, 53\%) or the nonimmersive virtual nature condition (n=18, 47\%). Pre- and postexposure assessments of nature connectedness, intention to perform green exercise, intention to visit the hiking location, and intention to participate in the organized hiking tour were collected. Presence, cybersickness, and actual attendance on the tour were also assessed. Results: A mixed ANOVA showed statistically significant pre- to postexposure assessment increases in nature connectedness (F1,36=33.49; P<.001; $\eta$p2=0.48); intention to perform green exercise (F1,36=5.55; P=.02); intention to visit the hiking location (F1,36=15.34; P<.001; $\eta$p2=0.26); and intention to participate in the hiking tour (F1,36=12.45; P=.001; $\eta$p2=0.30). Both conditions were associated with medium to high ratings of ``being there'' and ``sense of reality'' but low ratings of ``realism.'' The cybersickness levels were generally low. Of the 38 students, 6 (16\%) participated in the organized tour. The mixed ANOVA found no statistical differences between the two conditions for any of the outcomes. The participants' changes in nature connectedness ($\rho$=0.35; P=.03) and attendance on the hiking tour ($\rho$=.37; P=.02) correlated with the presence item ``being there.'' Conclusions: This study provides novel evidence on the potential of virtual nature as a medium to improve nature engagement among university students, adding to the current debate on the effectiveness of 360{\textdegree} videos. These findings can inform future research as well as initiatives seeking to promote nature engagement. ", doi="10.2196/63424", url="https://games.jmir.org/2025/1/e63424" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65893, author="Frimpong, Akua and Granados, Alvaro and Chang, Thomas and Fu, Julia and Moore, G. Shannan and Applebaum, Serina and Adepoju, Bolatito and Kaur, Mahima and Hari Krishnan, Vignesh and Levi, Amanda and McCall, Terika and Nwanyanwu, Harris Kristen", title="Recommendations for Designing a Digital Health Tool for Blindness Prevention Among High-Risk Diabetic Retinopathy Patients: Qualitative Focus Group Study of Adults With Diabetes", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="13", volume="9", pages="e65893", keywords="diabetes", keywords="DM", keywords="diabetes mellitus", keywords="type 2 diabetes", keywords="type 1 diabetes", keywords="diabetic retinopathy", keywords="needs assessment", keywords="blindness", keywords="mHealth", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mobile application", keywords="smartphones", keywords="applications", keywords="digital health", keywords="digital technology", keywords="digital interventions", keywords="Health disparities", abstract="Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of preventable blindness among working-aged adults. Black, Latine, and low-income individuals are screened less for DR, diagnosed later, treated less often, and go blind more than White individuals. Objective: This study aimed to engage members to co-design a digital health tool that is accessible, user-friendly, and culturally relevant, through a community-led research approach,. Methods: Using a qualitative approach, we conducted 4 semistructured focus group interviews with 19 individuals from the Greater New Haven area, aged 18 years or older, and diagnosed with diabetes. We transcribed and coded the focus group interviews and categorized them into themes using affinity mapping. The specific aims were to complete a comprehensive needs assessmen for the development of a community-responsive digital health tool and to increase access to information about DR screening in high-risk populations. We transcribed the focus group interviews, used rapid qualitative analysis to generate themes, and completed affinity mapping to identify content and features for a digital health tool for preventing blindness from DR. Results: We interviewed 19 individuals (68\% [13/19] female, 47\% [9/19] Black, 26\% [5/19]) Hispanic) in 4 focus groups. Over 80\% (15/19) had access to smart devices, including smartphones (17/19, 89\%), smartwatches (4/19, 21\%), computers (14/19, 74\%), and tablets (11/19, 58\%). Many participants had access to multiple devices (17/19, 89\%). Participants self-reported hemoglobin A1c (mean hemoglobin A1c 6.77, SD 1.93) and age (mean age 58.79, SD 19.54). Education levels among participants varied. Almost half of all the participants (9/19, 47\%) completed some college, a little less than a quarter (4/19, 21\%) achieved a high school diploma or general education development certificate, and a little less than a quarter (4/19, 21\%) completed less than a high school equivalent of education. Household income levels across nearly all participants (14/19, 74\%) were below US \$50,000, but household size data were not collected. Participants reported extensive experience with diabetes or prediabetes (mean years with diabetes or prediabetes 17.06, SD 17.53). The themes obtained from coding focus group interviews included the mental toll of diabetes, peer support like accountability and local community events, education about diabetes management, barriers to DR screening like long wait times for appointments or cost of medications, and diet-related topics like how to find cost-effective healthy food Conclusions: DR is one of the leading causes of blindness, and many treatments exist. Despite the existence of treatments, historically marginalized populations experience poor health outcomes, including blindness. Our community-based approach aids in the creation of a culturally responsive digital health tool. ", doi="10.2196/65893", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65893" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/54630, author="Ransom, Danielle and Tudor, Brant and Irani, Sarah and Rehman, Mohamed and Suskauer, Stacy and Mularoni, Patrick P. and Ahumada, Luis", title="Feasibility of Data Collection Via Consumer-Grade Wearable Devices in Adolescent Student Athletes: Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="13", volume="9", pages="e54630", keywords="sports-related injuries", keywords="wearable technology", keywords="recovery monitoring", keywords="adolescent student athletes", keywords="concussion", keywords="orthopedic injuries", keywords="orthopedic", keywords="musculoskeletal issues", keywords="sport", keywords="sports", keywords="injury", keywords="injuries", keywords="athlete", keywords="athletes", keywords="athletics", keywords="recover", keywords="monitor", keywords="monitoring", keywords="students", keywords="sensors", keywords="Fitbit", keywords="data collection", keywords="wearable", keywords="wearables", keywords="adolescent", keywords="adolescents", keywords="teen", keywords="teens", keywords="teenager", keywords="teenagers", abstract="Background: Recent advancements in sports medicine have been fueled by innovative technologies, particularly consumer-grade wearable devices like Fitbit, Apple Watch, and Garmin. These devices offer physiological and biomechanical data and hold promise for personalized, real-time, and remote assessment of athlete recovery. However, few studies have been conducted with these devices in adolescent student athletes. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of integrating consumer-grade wearable technology into injury recovery monitoring of adolescent student athletes. Methods: The study included 34 high school student athletes aged 14?18 diagnosed with either concussion or orthopedic injury, enrolled within 10 days of injury. Participants were equipped with a Fitbit Sense for continuous monitoring of physiological markers, including cardiovascular metrics, physical activity levels, and sleep patterns. Data collection extended 4?6 weeks beyond injury clearance, during which adherence rates were assessed at both hourly and daily intervals. Hourly adherence was defined as the proportion of participants with at least 1 recorded heart rate data point per hour, while daily adherence was defined as the proportion of participants with at least 1 recorded heart rate data point per 24-hour period. Results: The study demonstrated high participant adherence to wearing the device. The orthopedic injury cohort exhibited a median adherence rate of 95\%, with individual rates ranging from 82\% to 100\%. Similarly, the concussion cohort demonstrated a median adherence rate of 93\%, with adherence rates spanning from 37\% to 100\%. Notably, the study encountered minimal issues related to device functionality, with only 1 participant necessitating a device replacement. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate successful integration of wearable technology in data collection for adolescent student athletes recovering from sports-related injuries. However, it is important to consider current limitations, including factors that may influence data accuracy and precision. In conclusion, this feasibility study demonstrates the practicality of using consumer-grade wearable technology for the collection of physiological and biomechanical parameters in adolescent student athletes recovering from sport-related injuries. The high level of adherence highlights the potential applicability of consumer-grade wearable devices in this population. Study findings lay the foundation for future investigations with larger and more diverse cohorts to identify the utility of device metrics in identifying unique patterns of injury-specific recovery (ie, sport-related concussion). Consumer-grade wearable devices offer promise for optimizing assessment and management of injured athletes through wearable technology integration into standard clinical protocols. ", doi="10.2196/54630", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e54630" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68992, author="Cuppen, Sharon and van Leunen, Mayke and Henken, Tamara and Goevaerts, Mayra and Scherrenberg, Martijn and Falter, Maarten and Dendale, Paul and Kemps, Hareld and Kop, J. Willem", title="Association of Technology-Related Skills and Self-Efficacy With Willingness to Participate in Heart Failure Telemonitoring: Cross-Sectional Observational Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="12", volume="9", pages="e68992", keywords="heart failure", keywords="telemonitoring", keywords="participating in telemonitoring", keywords="technological skills", keywords="technological self-efficacy", keywords="technological learnability", abstract="Background: The adoption of telemonitoring in patients with heart failure (HF) is influenced by technology-related skills and self-efficacy, as well as psychological, clinical, and demographic factors. However, the relative importance of these factors with regard to willingness to use telemonitoring is insufficiently understood. Objectives: This cross-sectional observational study examines the extent to which technology-related skills and self-efficacy are related to willingness to participate in telemonitoring in patients with HF. Methods: Patients completed questionnaires during hospitalization. Associations of technological skills and self-efficacy with willingness to participate in telemonitoring (dichotomous and continuous scale) were examined using regression models. Mediation-moderation analyses were used to investigate the role of self-efficacy in the association of technological skills with willingness to participate. Results: This study recruited 61 patients admitted for decompensated HF (mean age 79.9, SD 9.5 years; 24 women). Higher levels of technological skills were associated with higher willingness to participate in telemonitoring (odds ratio [OR] 1.073 per scale unit, 95\% CI 1.031-1.117). Technological self-efficacy and learnability were also related to willingness to participate (OR 1.141, 95\% CI 1.039-1.252; OR 1.029, 95\% CI 1.006-1.052) but did not mediate the association of technological skills with willingness to participate in telemonitoring. Psychological factors (anxiety, depressive symptoms, and perceived social support), age, and cognitive and physical functioning did not moderate the association of technological skills with willingness to participate in telemonitoring. Conclusions: Technological skills, self-efficacy, and learnability are interrelated factors that need to be considered in patients with HF who are eligible for telemonitoring. Future intervention studies that target these factors could increase patients' willingness and competence in using telemonitoring after admission for HF. ", doi="10.2196/68992", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68992" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60789, author="Nadeem, Fatima and Azmy, Jessica and Shomali, Yousefnejad Asieh and Diette, Benjamin and Gregory, J. Lloyd and Davies, C. Angela and Wilson, C. Kurt", title="Using Real Electronic Health Records in Undergraduate Education: Roundtable Discussion", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="12", volume="9", pages="e60789", keywords="electronic health records", keywords="clinical competence", keywords="medical records systems", keywords="health care education", keywords="interdisciplinary education", keywords="undergraduate", keywords="student", keywords="health care professional", keywords="medical education", keywords="clinical practice", keywords="patient records", keywords="digital health", keywords="health informatics", abstract="Background: Simulated electronic health records (EHRs) are used in structured teaching for health care students. This partly addresses inconsistent student exposure to EHRs while on clinical placements. However, simulated records are poor replacements for the complexity of data encountered in real EHRs. While routinely collected health care data are often used for research, secondary use does not include education. We are exploring the perceptions, governance, and ethics required to support the use of real patient records within teaching. Objective: The aim of the study is to explore the perspectives of health care professionals regarding the use of real patient records to deliver interprofessional EHR education to undergraduate health care students. Methods: We held 90-minute group discussions with 10 health care professionals from nursing, pharmacy, medicine, and allied health disciplines. We used the GRIPP2 (Guidance for Reporting Involvement of Patients and the Public 2) checklist for reporting Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement to present our reflections. Results: There was consensus on the need to upskill health care students in the use of EHRs. Participants emphasized teaching general EHR competencies and transferable skills to overcome the diversity in EHR systems. They highlighted limitations in current teaching due to accessibility issues, disparities within clinical teaching, and curricular gaps on important topics such as clinical documentation and coding. Highlighted benefits of using real EHRs in teaching included learning from the complexities and inaccuracies of real patient data, grasping real-world time frames, and better appreciation of multidisciplinary interactions. Concerns included exposing individual clinicians to unfounded scrutiny and the potential consequences of incidental findings within EHRs. The ethical implications of overlooking perceived errors within EHRs versus the impracticality of acting on them were discussed. To mitigate concerns, it was suggested that data donors would provide informed consent ensuring they understand that they will not be recontacted should any such errors be found. Conclusions: Innovative solutions are needed to realign health care education with clinical practice in rapidly evolving digital environments. Real patient records are optimal for teaching students to handle complex and abundant real-world data. Data within EHRs represent a wealth of clinical knowledge encompassing professional and personal experiences spanning the lifetimes of patients and their caregivers. Drawing experiences and events from real EHRs will prepare health care students to anticipate, confront, and manage real patients in a variety of real-life scenarios. Our reflections highlight the processes and safeguards to consider when using real patient records to deliver EHR education to health care students. These detailed reflections from discussions with health care professionals provide the grounds for a robust framework, with appropriate governance and consent in place to use real health data in training to support preparation for clinical practice. ", doi="10.2196/60789", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60789" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/56711, author="Patel, B. Sajan and Iqbal, M. Fahad and Lam, Kyle and Acharya, Amish and Ashrafian, Hutan and Darzi, Ara", title="Characterizing Behaviors That Influence the Implementation of Digital-Based Interventions in Health Care: Systematic Review", journal="J Med Internet Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="12", volume="27", pages="e56711", keywords="human behaviors", keywords="behavior change", keywords="technology", keywords="intervention", keywords="eHealth", keywords="digital health", abstract="Background: Successful implementation of any digital intervention in a health care setting requires adoption by all stakeholders. Appropriate consideration of behavioral change is a key driver that is often overlooked during implementation. The nonadoption, abandonment, scale-up, spread, and systems (NASSS) behavioral framework offers a broad evaluation of success for digital health solutions, and the theoretical domains framework (TDF) focuses particularly on adopters, identifying determinants of behavior and potential reasons for implementation issues. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe and characterize barriers and facilitators to the adoption of digital solutions within health care using behavioral frameworks: the NASSS and TDF. Methods: A systematic search was performed in 4 databases (ie, Ovid in MEDLINE, Embase, Health Management Information Consortium, and PsycINFO). Included studies reported a behavioral change by health care professionals following digital interventions or the practicality of delivering such interventions. Barriers and facilitators were identified, extracted, and classified using the NASSS framework and TDF. Risk of bias was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results: The initial search result included 2704 unique studies, 12 of which met the inclusion criteria and from which data were extracted. All 12 scored ?3 out of 5 stars on the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool risk of bias assessment. Out of the 12 studies, 67\% (n=8) were conducted in the United States, and 8\% (n=1) each in India, Australia, the Netherlands, and Tanzania. The NASSS framework identified facilitators and barriers in 4 domains: the condition or illness, technology, value proposition, and adopter system. The TDF framework identified 8 relevant domains, including knowledge, skills, and beliefs about capabilities. Key facilitators included intuitive technology design aligned with existing workflows, clear communication of value propositions to adopters, adequate provision of training resources tailored to adopters' knowledge levels, and ensuring organizational readiness for technological change. Conversely, significant barriers involved disruptions to clinical workflow, inadequate adopter training or confidence levels, unclear value propositions leading to disengagement, insufficient consideration of cognitive load impacts, such as alert fatigue, and limited organizational preparedness. Notably, psychological factors such as optimism, intentions, and social influences were underreported. Conclusions: This study delineated and analyzed various critical behavioral factors impacting the adoption and implementation of digital interventions in health care. Based on these findings, future research must consider the key factors reported and alternative approaches to assess behaviors influencing adoption that are not presented in the current scientific literature. Trial Registration: PROSPERO CRD42022264937; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42022264937 ", doi="10.2196/56711", url="https://www.jmir.org/2025/1/e56711" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/76178, author="Holub, K. Christina and Barrera, L. Amy and Romero Gonzalez, Rosalva and Hoang, Diane and Prieto, Luna and Fesili, Samuelu and Smith, Tiana and Kaur, Harleen and Surban, Cassandra and Markidis, Michael and Lepule, Tana and Martinez, Konane", title="Identifying Themes for an Initial Beta Version of a Mobile Health App for Latino and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Communities: Co-Design and Community-Based Participatory Research in a Code to Community Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="12", volume="9", pages="e76178", keywords="community co-design", keywords="community-based participatory research", keywords="CBPR", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mHealth", doi="10.2196/76178", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e76178", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40424151" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60073, author="Fernandez, Alejandra and Bernal, Savannah and Kim, Lana and Potla, Subodh", title="Using Ecological Momentary Assessment to Assess Family Functioning in Spanish-Speaking Parent and Adolescent Dyads: Daily Questionnaire Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="11", volume="9", pages="e60073", keywords="adolescence", keywords="ecological momentary assessment", keywords="family functioning", keywords="family function", keywords="feasibility", keywords="acceptability", keywords="adolescent", keywords="family-based", keywords="family-based interventions", keywords="EMA", keywords="community-based", keywords="smartphone", abstract="Background: Family functioning is associated with several adolescent health outcomes, and many family-based interventions (FBIs) exist to improve family functioning. However, most FBIs assess family functioning retrospectively at baseline and post intervention, thereby overlooking the daily fluctuations in family functioning throughout the intervention. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a method involving a high frequency of assessments and has been underused to assess family functioning across parent and adolescent dyads. Further, limited research exists on the use of EMA in bilingual populations. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess an EMA protocol's feasibility and acceptability and to analyze within-person and between-person variance in family functioning reports in a sample of primarily Spanish-speaking parent and adolescent dyads. Methods: Participants completed a baseline assessment (including demographics and family functioning assessment), a 7-day protocol with a once-daily family assessment questionnaire using an EMA app, and an acceptability questionnaire at the conclusion of the study. Results: We recruited 7 mothers (mean age 37.29, SD 3.82 years) and 8 adolescents (n=7, 88\% females; mean age 11.86, SD 1.07 years) who identified themselves as Hispanic/Latinx. The participants showed overall satisfaction with the EMA protocol. The daily assessments were completed relatively quickly (mean 3 minutes and 16 seconds, SD 11 minutes and 5 seconds) after the prompt notification was received, and the response rate across the daily assessments was 90\% (87/97). The reported family functioning was relatively high across both adolescents (mean 4.57) and parents (mean 4.59). The variance across adolescents (SD 0.459) was larger than that within their individual reports of family functioning (SD 0.122). Alternatively, the variance across parents was smaller (SD 0.132) than that reported among parents' individual reports of family functioning (SD 0.286). Our findings highlight the heterogeneity between adolescent and parent responses. Finally, the visual inspection of data underscored the individualized patterns and reported differences in the family functioning reports across parents and adolescents. Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the value of EMA in studying family (eg, adolescent-caregiver) behaviors. EMA's ability to capture immediate experiences presents a nuanced picture of daily interactions and offers suggestions for practice when using the EMA methodology in populations such as the one included in this study (ie, primarily Spanish-speaking parent-adolescent dyads). ", doi="10.2196/60073", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60073" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66908, author="Aminoff, Victoria and Baltius, Matilda and Lundstr{\"o}m, Emelie and Berg, Matilda and Andersson, Gerhard and Ludvigsson, Mikael", title="Experiences of Individually Tailored Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Interview Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="11", volume="9", pages="e66908", keywords="internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy", keywords="COVID-19", keywords="internet", keywords="thematic analysis", keywords="qualitative methods", keywords="interview", abstract="Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, both physical and psychological health were at risk. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) is a psychological treatment alternative that does not inherently increase the risk of virus transmission because face-to-face interactions are not required. ICBT has been found to be effective for a variety of mental health problems, both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the experiences of undergoing ICBT have been investigated in previous studies, the specific experiences of participating in ICBT during the COVID-19 pandemic have been less examined. Objective: This qualitative study aimed to investigate the experiences of participants undergoing individually tailored ICBT with weekly therapist support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We approached trial participants who had received ICBT for psychological symptoms related to the COVID-19 pandemic during the summer of 2020. A strategic sample, based on the number of log-ins to the treatment platform, among other factors, was selected in an effort to achieve the highest possible variation. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted 4 to 6 months after treatment completion, depending on whether the participant was initially assigned to the treatment or control group. Data were transcribed and then analyzed based on thematic analysis. Results: A total of 16 participants aged between 23 and 78 years were interviewed. Four main themes and 10 subthemes were derived from the thematic analysis: (1) functions of the treatment (initiating and motivating, perspective widening), (2) treatment equals work (experience of the treatment as demanding, going from text to action, posttreatment engagement, participant agency), (3) changes experienced (changes in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, other changes not related to the COVID-19 pandemic), and (4) wishing for something else (individually tailored, contact with the therapist). Conclusions: The results closely align with those of previous qualitative studies on experiences of ICBT. Participants expressed appreciation of the treatment's content and format. Suggestions and wishes for changes were also expressed in the interviews. However, a unique finding was that participants described experiencing changes in well-being related to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, there were also reports of changes in other symptoms not related to the pandemic. Further studies are needed on the experiences of participants who drop out of ICBT and the type of therapist contact they prefer. ", doi="10.2196/66908", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66908" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70206, author="Van Citters, D. Aricca and Holthoff, M. Megan and Young, Colleen and Eck, M. Sarah and Cullinan, M. Amelia and Carney, Stephanie and O'Donnell, A. Elizabeth and King, R. Joel and Govindan, Malavika and Gustafson, David and Tomlin, C. Stephanie and Holmes, B. Anne and Bradley, D. Ann and Oliver, J. Brant and Wilson, M. Matthew and Nelson, C. Eugene and Barnato, E. Amber and Kirkland, B. Kathryn", title="Feasibility and Usability of a Web-Based Peer Support Network for Care Partners of People With Serious Illness (ConnectShareCare): Observational Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="11", volume="9", pages="e70206", keywords="serious illness", keywords="care partner", keywords="caregivers", keywords="peer-support", keywords="self-help groups", keywords="social networking", keywords="internet", keywords="peer-to-peer", abstract="Background: While it can be rewarding to provide care for a person with serious illness, care partners are often unprepared to manage and cope with the physical and emotional stresses that arise with disease progression and bereavement. Objective: We aimed to evaluate membership enrollment, engagement, and experiences within a web-based peer support network for active and bereaved care partners of people with serious illness. Methods: We conducted a formative evaluation of the ConnectShareCare peer-to-peer web-based support network, which targeted care partners of people with serious illness residing in the northeastern United States. Recruitment methods included marketing postcards, flyers, listserv messages, and referrals from community stakeholders, peers, and clinicians. Enrollment occurred through a self-guided, web-based process. Study participants included members enrolled in ConnectShareCare between April 2021 and June 2023. We used the network's analytics dashboard (eg, registration, usage, and notification logs) to evaluate membership enrollment and engagement in discussions. We used surveys of a subset of members to assess experiences, including satisfaction, ability to find meaning by supporting others, and value and opportunities for improvement. Results: Over 2 years, the network enrolled 250 members, with an average of 9 new members per month. Among 193 members providing information, most (58\%, n=112) identified as active care partners, 17\% (n=33) identified as bereaved care partners, and 27\% (n=52) chose not to specify their role. Two-thirds of the 250 members did not post, 20\% (n=50) posted 1?10 times, 6\% (n=14) posted 11?25 times, 6\% (n=15) posted 26-100 times, and 3\% (n=7) posted more than 100 times. On average, 19 members posted per month resulting in 166 member posts per month. Moderators (1 community manager, 2 volunteer mentors, and 2 project team members) supported members with an average of 111 posts/month. In total, 187 discussion topics were created, including 42\% (n=78) started by members and 58\% (n=109) started by moderators. Seventy-eight discussion topics had 10 or more posts associated with them. The most frequent discussion topics focused on ``check-ins'' and ``sources of joy and hope.'' Among 18 care partner members who completed a research survey, 69\% (11/16) reported connecting with at least 1 person and 62\% (10/16) reported that ConnectShareCare helped them find meaning and purpose by supporting others. Most reported satisfaction with support (12/16, 75\%) and information (14/16, 88\%) through the network. Although most noted that ConnectShareCare was easy to use (10/17, 59\%), respondents were less likely to easily find the information they were seeking (6/16, 38\%). Survey respondents found value in peer connection and support and identified opportunities to improve navigation of resources and engagement of members. Conclusions: Care partners of people with serious illness can use a web-based peer support network to find meaningful and useful support and information. Additional work is needed to identify the impact of the network on distress, social connectivity, and support programming. ", doi="10.2196/70206", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70206" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66187, author="Unzueta Saavedra, Jimena and Deaso, A. Emma and Austin, Margot and Cadavid, Laura and Kraff, Rachel and Knowles, M. Emma E.", title="Smartphone Ecological Momentary Assessment and Wearable Activity Tracking in Pediatric Depression: Cohort Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="11", volume="9", pages="e66187", keywords="depression", keywords="ecological momentary assessment", keywords="activity", keywords="sleep", keywords="mood", keywords="adolescent", abstract="Background: Adolescent depression is a significant public health concern. The presentation of depressive symptoms varies widely among individuals, fluctuating in intensity over time. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) offers a unique advantage by enhancing ecological validity and reducing recall bias, allowing for a more accurate and nuanced understanding of major depressive disorder (MDD) symptoms. This methodology provides valuable insights into the fluctuating nature of depression, which could inform more personalized and timely interventions. Objective: This study aims to (1) evaluate the feasibility of collecting smartphone-based EMA data alongside activity and sleep tracking in adolescents with depression; (2) investigate the severity and variability of mood symptoms reported over time; and (3) explore the relationship between mood, activity, and sleep. Methods: Thirty-six participants (23 with MDD, 13 unaffected controls; 75\% [n=27] female, mean age 19.50 y) completed twice-daily EMA check-ins over 2 weeks, complemented by continuous activity and sleep monitoring using FitBit Charge 3 devices. The study examined feasibility, usability of the EMA app, symptom severity and variability, and relationships between mood, activity, and sleep. We applied linear mixed-effects regression to the data to examine relationships between variables. Results: Participants completed a total of 923 unique check-ins (mean check-ins per participant=25.60). Overall compliance rates were high (91.57\%), indicating the approach is highly feasible. MDD participants demonstrated greater symptom severity and variability over time compared with controls ($\beta$=34.48, P<.001). Individuals with MDD exhibited greater diurnal variation ($\beta$=?2.54, P<.001) with worse mood in the morning and worse mood than anxiety scores over time ($\beta$=?6.93, P<.001). Life stress was a significant predictor of more severe EMA scores ($\beta$=24.50, P<.001). MDD cases exhibited more inconsistent sleep patterns ($\beta$=32.14, P<.001), shorter total sleep times ($\beta$=?94.38, P<.001), and a higher frequency of naps ($\beta$=14.05, P<.001). MDD cases took fewer steps per day (mean 5828.64, SD 6188.85) than controls (mean 7088.47, SD 5378.18) over the course of the study, but this difference was not significant (P=.33), and activity levels were not significantly predictive of EMA score (P=.75). Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of integrating smartphone-based EMA with wearable activity tracking in adolescents with depression. High compliance rates support the practicality of this approach, while EMA data provide valuable insights into the dynamic nature of depressive symptoms, particularly in relation to sleep and life stress. Future studies should validate these findings in larger, more diverse samples. Clinically, EMA and wearable tracking may enhance routine assessments and inform personalized interventions by capturing symptom variability and external influences in real time. ", doi="10.2196/66187", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66187" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/71119, author="Aydemir, U?ur", title="ChatGPT-Delivered Physical Activity Intervention for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Pre-Post Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="Jun", day="11", volume="12", pages="e71119", keywords="autism spectrum disorder", keywords="physical activity", keywords="parent", keywords="ChatGPT", keywords="child", abstract="Background: The use of digital technologies, such as mobile apps, Zoom (Zoom Communications), virtual reality, and video games, to promote physical activity in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been increasing. However, there are no studies using ChatGPT (OpenAI), a popular tool in recent years, for promoting physical activity in children with ASD. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and potential effectiveness of ChatGPT-delivered physical activity interventions in children with ASD. Methods: A total of 26 families (parent-child dyads) participated in the study. Families were randomly assigned to an application group (n=13) and a control group (n=13). In the application group, parents implemented physical activities recommended by ChatGPT for their children with ASD. Data were collected using the Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (LTEQ) and a feasibility questionnaire. Results: Parents reported that ChatGPT-delivered physical activities were a feasible intervention to increase physical activity levels in children with ASD. They also found the activity content suggested by ChatGPT to be interesting and useful. LTEQ measurements corroborated these findings, showing a significant increase in the physical activity levels of children in the intervention group after the intervention. Conclusions: The results suggest that ChatGPT-delivered physical activities could be a promising intervention to enhance physical activity in children with ASD. Further investigation is warranted. ", doi="10.2196/71119", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e71119" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/71493, author="Yoshino, Yusuke and Kimura, Yoshitaka and Wakabayashi, Yoshitaka and Kitazawa, Takatoshi", title="Feasibility of an Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome System in People Living With HIV: Retrospective Analysis of a Mobile App-Based Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="10", volume="9", pages="e71493", keywords="patient reported outcome", keywords="smartphone app", keywords="quality of life", keywords="feasibility test", keywords="electronic patient reported outcome", abstract="Background: Advances in antiretroviral therapy have transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition, allowing people living with HIV to live longer. However, with aging, people living with HIV face increased risks of lifestyle-related diseases and unaddressed psychosocial issues, including stigma, discrimination, and mental health concerns. Patient-reported outcomes are essential tools in person-centered care and have demonstrated clinical utility in oncology and rheumatology; yet remains underutilized in infectious disease settings. Recently, the European AIDS Clinical Society has recommended electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) systems to support HIV care. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and clinical utility of a smartphone-based ePRO system specifically developed for people living with HIV in Japan. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among people living with HIV who attended the HIV outpatient clinic at Teikyo University Hospital between July and September 2022. Participants who consented to use the ePRO system installed a smartphone app and completed the HIV symptom index prior to their clinic visit. Physicians reviewed the responses during consultations; following the visits, patients completed a usability survey addressing clarity, response time, satisfaction, communication quality, and intention for future use. Medical records were reviewed to determine any new symptoms, findings, or medical actions that had not been documented in the previous two years. Results: A total of 27 people living with HIV (median age, 46 years; 100\% male) used the ePRO app, and 25 (93\%) completed the postuse questionnaire. Of these, 19/25 (76\%) completed the Symptom Index within 5 minutes, while one participant required more than 15 minutes. Regarding usability, 76\% (n=19) reported being satisfied or very satisfied, and 76\% (n=19) found the system useful in improving communication with their provider. Additionally, 76\% (n=19) expressed willingness to use the system again, while 5 (20\%) participants indicated interest only if improvements were made. Medical record analysis revealed that 17/27 patients (63\%) had new clinical information documented, including mental health symptoms (n=7, 26\%), skin problems (n=7, 26\%), and new diagnoses or treatment changes in 6 (22\%) cases. Over 40\% (n=11) of patients reported issues such as anxiety, insomnia, dermatological symptoms, or concerns related to body image. Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrated that a smartphone-based ePRO system for people living with HIV is feasible and well-accepted in real-world clinical practice. It facilitated early detection of psychosocial and physical issues that may otherwise be overlooked in routine care and improved patient--provider communication. These findings support the integration of ePRO systems into HIV care and underscore the need for further refinement of the app and prospective studies to assess long-term impact on patient outcomes and quality of care. ", doi="10.2196/71493", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e71493" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70073, author="Sama, Karthik and Sreevalsan-Nair, Jaya and Choudhary, Soumya and Nagendra, Srilakshmi and Reddy, V. Preethi and Cohen, Asher and Mehta, Meherwan Urvakhsh and Torous, John", title="mindLAMPVis as a Co-Designed Clinician-Facing Data Visualization Portal to Integrate Clinical Observations From Digital Phenotyping in Schizophrenia: User-Centered Design Process and Pilot Implementation", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="10", volume="9", pages="e70073", keywords="co-design", keywords="data visualization", keywords="browser-based dashboard", keywords="multivariate data mining", keywords="dimensionality reduction", keywords="local technology adoption", keywords="digital phenotyping", keywords="schizophrenia", keywords="anomaly detection", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: The potential of digital mental health to transform care delivery in low- and middle-income countries is well established. However, there remains the need to clinically and organically adapt current tools to local needs. This paper explores the process of creating a novel data visualization system for a digital mental health app and outlines the necessary steps in the process. This work demonstrates co-design involving collaboration between teams across geographies and disciplines based on clinicians' requirements. Objective: This study aims to co-design a visualization dashboard app for clinicians through a design study with a multidisciplinary team consisting of clinicians in Boston and Bangalore, mindLAMP software developers in Boston, and computer scientists with visualization expertise in Bangalore. The app is designed to visualize derivatives of both active and passive data of patients with schizophrenia to support the research contexts of digital psychiatry clinics in India. Methods: The mindLAMP app, already used in many countries today, is adapted to offer a new clinician-facing data visualization portal, mindLAMPVis. The novel web-based portal is designed to improve clinical integration for use in India. After building the new portal, the insights from this new portal are corroborated with known clinical observations of relapse using comparative visualization. The data were taken from the mindLAMP app and processed using multivariate analysis and dimensionality reduction to make it easy and manageable for clinicians to analyze. These techniques are integrated in mindLAMPVis, thus making it a locally co-designed, developed, and deployed tool. A feasibility study of the pilot implementation of the app was completed through a domain expert study with clinician-driven case studies. Results: To assess the system, we preloaded data from 24 patients with schizophrenia, including those with relapses. Through case examples focusing on relapse risk prediction in schizophrenia, mindLAMPVis is used to identify different visualization methods to compare different analytical results for each patient. In partnership with clinicians for co-designing the app, we explored the feasibility of a comparative visualization tool for discovering patterns across different time stamps for a single patient or any patterns across patients related to the relapse episode. As an example of reverse translation, mindLAMPVis offers new features that complement the original features of mindLAMP, highlighting the mutual benefit of software adaptation and collaborative design. Conclusions: mindLAMPVis is a tailored tool designed for use in India, but it can aid in identifying and comparing behavioral patterns that may indicate clinical risk for patients in any country. mindLAMPVis offers an example of how, through technical design, feedback, and real-world clinical testing, it is feasible to adapt current software tools to meet local needs and even exceed the use cases of the original technology. mindLAMPVis also successfully incorporates both active and passive digital phenotyping data. ", doi="10.2196/70073", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70073" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/72489, author="Amin, Sam and Partridge, Carol-Anne and Leonard, Helen and Downs, Jenny and Allvin, Helen and Ficara, Valentine and Pain, Emilie and Korolainen, A. Minna", title="Caregivers' Perceptions of Clinical Symptoms, Disease Management, and Quality of Life Impact in Cases of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-Like 5 Deficiency Disorder: Cross-Sectional Online Survey", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="10", volume="9", pages="e72489", keywords="CDKL5 deficiency disorder", keywords="cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5", keywords="developmental epileptic encephalopathy", keywords="caregiver perception", keywords="burden", keywords="cross-sectional survey", keywords="online survey", keywords="health-related quality of life", keywords="epilepsy", keywords="rare disorder", abstract="Background: Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency disorder (CDD) is an ultrarare genetic condition causing developmental epileptic encephalopathy characterized by seizures and motor and intellectual disabilities. No disease-modifying therapies are available, and treatments focus mainly on symptom management to improve quality of life. Objective: The aim of this study was to better understand the burden of CDD based on family caregivers' perceptions. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional, web-based survey comprising 40 questions for caregivers of patients with CDD and focusing on sociodemographic and medical characteristics, disease burden, unmet needs, treatments, and support. An adapted version of the EQ-5D-5L instrument was included to measure patients' health-related quality of life as perceived by their caregivers. Results: A total of 132 caregivers, mostly from western parts of Europe, responded. The median patient age was 7.6 (IQR 2.9-12.2) years. Seizure onset occurred early, with the median onset at 2.0 (IQR 1.0-3.0) months of age. The median age at diagnosis was 1.2 (IQR 0.6-4.0) years. Epilepsy (123/132, 93.2\%) and limited communication skills (111/132, 84.1\%) were the most commonly reported symptoms. The highest number of different types of symptoms was reported for patients aged 5-9 years, with a median of 9.0 (IQR 7.5-10.0) symptoms. Most patients with epilepsy experienced daily seizures (81/123, 65.9\%), and nearly all (119/123, 96.7\%) were on antiseizure medications. A minority was on a ketogenic diet (21/123, 17.1\%) or underwent vagus nerve stimulation (14/123, 11.4\%). The care received was multidisciplinary. Compared to younger patients, adults had fewer medical appointments and a smaller variety of health care professionals in their care team. The EQ-5D-5L, adapted for caregivers, indicated low health-related quality of life for patients, with a median global index value of 0.18 (IQR 0.11-0.32). The most severe consequences of CDD on patients' daily lives were reported for mobility (88/132, 66.7\%), self-care (120/132, 90.9\%), and everyday activities (103/132, 78.0\%). Caregiver burden was also substantial, with all life aspects reportedly impacted by CDD, including professional life and financial resources (median impact ratings of 9.0/10 and 7.0/10, respectively). Access to support and care varied depending on location. Caregivers outside Europe reported a longer time between the first seizure and diagnosis (26.5, IQR 3.2-47.0 months) compared to European caregivers (11.0, IQR 5.0-45.0 months). They also reported a higher impact of CDD on their financial resources (rating of 10/10) compared to European caregivers (rating of 6/10) and greater challenges in covering costs. Conclusions: The study findings provide valuable insights on symptoms and disease burden related to CDD. This burden was quantitatively characterized with the EQ-5D-5L for the first time and was perceived as substantial by family caregivers. Discrepancies between geographic regions and age groups were highlighted, especially regarding available support and access to resources and care. ", doi="10.2196/72489", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e72489" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70070, author="Noda, Masao and Koshu, Ryota and Tsunoda, Reiko and Ogihara, Hirofumi and Kamo, Tomohiko and Ito, Makoto and Fushiki, Hiroaki", title="Exploring Generative Pre-Trained Transformer-4-Vision for Nystagmus Classification: Development and Validation of a Pupil-Tracking Process", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="6", volume="9", pages="e70070", keywords="nystagmus", keywords="GPT-4Vision", keywords="generative AI", keywords="deep learning", keywords="dizziness", keywords="artificial intelligence", abstract="Background: Conventional nystagmus classification methods often rely on subjective observation by specialists, which is time-consuming and variable among clinicians. Recently, deep learning techniques have been used to automate nystagmus classification using convolutional and recurrent neural networks. These networks can accurately classify nystagmus patterns using video data. However, associated challenges including the need for large datasets when creating models, limited applicability to address specific image conditions, and the complexity associated with using these models. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate a novel approach for nystagmus classification that used the Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 Vision (GPT-4V) model, which is a state-of-the-art large-scale language model with powerful image recognition capabilities. Methods: We developed a pupil-tracking process using a nystagmus-recording video and verified the optimization model's accuracy using GPT-4V classification and nystagmus recording. We tested whether the created optimization model could be evaluated in six categories of nystagmus: right horizontal, left horizontal, upward, downward, right torsional, and left torsional. The traced trajectory was input as two-dimensional coordinate data or an image, and multiple in-context learning methods were evaluated. Results: The developed model showed an overall classification accuracy of 37\% when using pupil-traced images and a maximum accuracy of 24.6\% when pupil coordinates were used as input. Regarding orientation, we achieved a maximum accuracy of 69\% for the classification of horizontal nystagmus patterns but a lower accuracy for the vertical and torsional components. Conclusions: We demonstrated the potential of versatile vertigo management in a generative artificial intelligence model that improves the accuracy and efficiency of nystagmus classification. We also highlighted areas for further improvement, such as expanding the dataset size and enhancing input modalities, to improve classification performance across all nystagmus types. The GPT-4V model validated only for recognizing still images can be linked to video classification and proposed as a novel method. ", doi="10.2196/70070", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70070" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67906, author="Cronin, M. Robert and Quaye, Nives and Liu, Xin and Landes, Kristina and Crosby, E. Lori and Kassim, A. Adetola and DeBaun, R. Michael and Schnell, M. Patrick", title="Usage of a Multipurpose mHealth App Among Adults With Sickle Cell Disease: Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="5", volume="9", pages="e67906", keywords="sickle cell disease", keywords="mHealth", keywords="patient engagement", keywords="hospitalizations", keywords="consumer health informatics", keywords="guidelines", abstract="Background: While mobile health (mHealth) apps have been made for various diseases, including sickle cell disease (SCD), most focus on a single purpose. SCD is a chronic disease that requires knowledge of the disease, self-management, and adherence to treatment plans. While mHealth apps have been made with single features for SCD, there is limited understanding of using an mHealth app with a more comprehensive set of features that could engage adults with SCD, depending on what features they prefer and need to engage and empower them in living with their disease. Objective: We evaluated the usage of an mHealth app with various features, including pain tracking, quizzes for patient-facing guidelines, pain and asthma action plans, and goal setting. Methods: Adults with SCD were enrolled at 2 sickle cell centers between 2018 and 2022 as part of a 6-month feasibility randomized controlled trial with participants completing surveys at baseline and 6 months. Participants were randomized into receiving either an mHealth app and booklet with patient-facing guidelines or a booklet with the guidelines alone. The mHealth app comprised web pages with patient-facing guideline material and a Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) project. The REDCap project included a personal profile, a pain tracker, goal setting, quizzes about the guidelines, and pain or asthma action plans. The REDCap project also included the ability to send daily text messages at a time they chose, which contained a message they could create and a link to their profile. Outcomes included SCD-specific knowledge and acute health care utilization (emergency room visits and hospitalizations). We evaluated the usage of these different features and relationships with baseline variables, each other, and study outcomes. Results: Approximately 75\% (50/67) of the enrolled and randomized participants completed all the study components, and 100\% (26/26) of the participants who were randomized to the mHealth app arm and completed the study used the mHealth app. Further, 15/30 (50\%) participants used multiple features. Baseline sickle cell knowledge and female gender were associated with more usage of pain diary (P=.04) and mission (P=.046) features, respectively. While not significant, mission completion was associated with lower hospitalizations (P=.06). Conclusions: Adults with SCD engaged differently with an mHealth app with multiple features. As this study was not focused on one part of our app, engagement with features in this app was entirely patient-driven, which may demonstrate the expected real-world use of an mHealth app in this population. A multipurpose app can help engage participants in self-management strategies through different features and potentially improve outcomes. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03629678; https://tinyurl.com/3wx5en5r ", doi="10.2196/67906", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67906" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/50912, author="Radzi, Shairah and Tan, Seng Joo and Rajalingam, Preman and Cleland, Jennifer and Mogali, Reddy Sreenivasulu", title="Developing and Testing a Framework for Learning Online Collaborative Creativity in Medical Education: Cross-Sectional Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="5", volume="9", pages="e50912", keywords="collaborative creativity", keywords="design thinking", keywords="medical education", keywords="social cultural learning", keywords="collaborative learning", abstract="Background: Collaborative creativity (CC) is a social process of generating creative and innovative solutions to real-world problems through collective effort and interaction. By engaging in this process, medical students can develop abilities and mindset for creative thinking, teamwork, interdisciplinary learning, complex problem-solving, and enhanced patient care. However, medical students have demonstrated limited creativity, constrained by existing pedagogical approaches that predominantly emphasize knowledge outcomes. The increasing complexity of health care challenges necessitates a pedagogical framework for medical students to foster CC in a rapidly evolving professional environment. Objective: This study aimed to develop, test, and evaluate a new Framework for Learning Online Collaborative Creativity (FLOCC). Methods: FLOCC builds on established pedagogical approaches such as design thinking and integrates sociocultural learning methods (team-based learning [TBL] and problem-based learning [PBL]). It includes 4 individual asynchronous activities (empathy map, frame your challenge, turning insights into how might we questions, and individual brainstorming) and 5 collaborative synchronous activities (bundle ideas, list constraints, final idea, prototyping, and blind testing). In this cross-sectional study, 85 undergraduate medical students participated in 2 separate studies (study 1, n=44; study 2, n=41) involving health care and engineering sustainability problems. Learner acceptability was measured using a 31-item survey (using 7-point Likert scale) consisting of 4 factors (distributed creativity, synergistic social collaboration, time regulation and achievement, and self and emotions) and 3 free text questions. Free-text comments were subjected to the inductive thematic analysis. Results: Most students were positive about FLOCC, with distributed creativity and synergistic social collaboration factors receiving the highest mean percentages of ``'Agree'' (78/85, 92\% and 75/85, 88\%, respectively). These were followed by time regulation and achievement factor (68/85, 80\%) and the self and emotions factor (59/85, 70\%). Only time regulation and achievement was statistically significant (P=.001) between means of studies 1 and 2. Thematic analysis revealed 4 themes such as learning experiences, collaborative responsibilities, perceived skill development, and technical challenges. Conclusions: With effective time management, FLOCC shows potential as a framework for nurturing CC in medical students. Medical schools could provide the opportunity and environment that supports creative thinking; therefore, creativity-focused approaches could be integrated into the curriculum to encourage a culture of creativity for breakthrough solutions by future doctors. ", doi="10.2196/50912", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e50912" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69115, author="Wolff, Dominik and Kupka, Thomas and Reichert, Chiara and Ammon, Nils and Oeltze-Jafra, Steffen and Vajen, Beate", title="Personalized Support in Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer After Genetic Counseling by the Chatbot-Based GENIE Mobile App: Proof-of-Concept Wizard of Oz Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="5", volume="9", pages="e69115", keywords="HBOC", keywords="hereditary breast and ovarian cancer", keywords="Wizard of Oz study", keywords="mobile health", keywords="evaluation", keywords="hereditary diseases", abstract="Background: The primary aim of genetic counseling at a human genetics center is to empower individuals at risk for hereditary diseases to make informed decisions regarding their health. In Germany, genetic counseling sessions typically last approximately 1 hour and provide highly personalized information by a specialist in human genetics. Despite this, many counselees report a need for additional support following the counseling session. Objective: This study introduces GENIE, a chatbot-based mobile app designed to assist individuals in the postcounseling phase, with a focus on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. GENIE delivers expert-curated, personalized information tailored to the user's health and family circumstances. The content is presented through predefined dialogs between the user and the mobile assistant, aiming to extend the benefits of genetic counseling beyond the initial session. Methods: A Wizard of Oz study was conducted to evaluate a functional prototype of GENIE. A total of 6 patients with breast cancer, at least 2 years postdiagnosis, participated in the study. Participants were given access to the app for a minimum of 1 week. The evaluation was based on their interaction with GENIE, which was personalized using the details of a fictitious patient. Data collection included semistructured interviews and a 45-item questionnaire to assess usability and content quality. Results: The analysis of the interview and questionnaire data indicated high usability for GENIE, with a mean System Usability Score of 75.33 (SD 4.13). In total, 5 of the 6 participants used the app daily; 3 participants were willing to pay between US \$5 and US \$45 as a single purchase, while the other 3 participants agreed that the app should be free for the user and the costs should be directly covered by health insurance. Still, opinions on the app's appeal were divided. The layout was seen as moderately professional, a bit crowded, and slightly uninspiring. Nevertheless, participants highlighted the credibility and relevance of the content, noting its alignment with the fictitious patient's scenario. However, areas for improvement were identified, particularly concerning the app's design. All participants would recommend the app to other affected persons. Conclusions: The findings suggest that a mobile app like GENIE can provide valuable support to individuals in the postcounseling phase of genetic services. GENIE offers distinct advantages over large language models, as the information it provides is carefully curated by human experts, minimizing the risk of inaccuracies or hallucinations and significantly enhancing the system's credibility. This study highlights the need to involve the user group as early as possible in the development of a digital health app. Future work will focus on the implementation of a comprehensive personalization engine, redesign of the user interface, and the execution of a large-scale, 2-arm randomized intervention study to validate GENIE's effectiveness. ", doi="10.2196/69115", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69115" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63644, author="Singh, Shifali and Kluen, Lisa and Curtis, Katelin and Norel, Raquel and Agurto, Carla and Grinspoon, Elizabeth and Hawks, Zoe and Christ, Shawn and Waisbren, Susan and Cecchi, Guillermo and Germine, Laura", title="Leveraging Cognitive and Speech Ecological Momentary Assessment in Individuals With Phenylketonuria: Development and Usability Study of Cognitive Fluctuations in a Rare Disease Population", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="3", volume="9", pages="e63644", keywords="neuropsychology", keywords="ecological momentary assessment", keywords="rare diseases", keywords="metabolism", keywords="cognition", keywords="phenylketonuria", keywords="PKU", keywords="hereditary", keywords="phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency", keywords="phenylalanine", abstract="Background: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare, hereditary disease that causes disruption in phenylalanine (Phe) metabolism. Despite early intervention, individuals with PKU may have difficulty in several different cognitive domains, including verbal fluency, processing speed, and executive functioning. Objective: The overarching goal of this study is to characterize the relationships among cognition, speech, mood, and blood-based biomarkers (Phe, tyrosine) in individuals with early treated PKU. We describe our initial optimization pilot results that are guiding this study while establishing the feasibility and reliability of using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) in this clinical population. Methods: In total, 20 adults with PKU were enrolled in this study between December 2022 and March 2023 through the National PKU Alliance. Of the total, 18 participants completed an extended baseline assessment followed by 6 EMAs over 1 month. The EMAs included digital cognitive tests measuring processing speed, sustained attention, and executive functioning, as well as speech (semantic fluency) and mood measures. Participants had 60 minutes to complete the assessment. Results: Completion rates of EMAs were above 70\% (on average 4.78 out of 6 EMAs), with stable performances across baseline measures and EMAs. Between-person reliability (BPR) of the EMAs, representing the variance due to differences between individuals versus within individuals, is satisfactory with values close to (semantic fluency BPR: 0.7, sustained attention BPR: 0.72) or exceeding (processing speed: 0.93, executive functioning: 0.88) data collected from a large normative database (n=5039-10,703), as well as slightly below or matching a previous study using a clinical group (n=18). As applicable, within-person reliability was also computed; we demonstrated strong reliability for processing speed (0.87). A control analysis ensured that time of day (ie, morning, afternoon, and evening) did not impact performance; performance on tasks did not decrease if tested earlier versus later in the day (all P values >.09). Similarly, to assess variability in task performance over the course of all EMAs, the coefficient of variability was computed; 28\% for the task measuring sustained attention, 37\% for semantic fluency, 15.8\% for the task measuring executive functioning, and 17.6\% for processing speed. Performance appears more stable in tasks measuring processing speed and executive functioning than on tasks of sustained attention and semantic fluency. Conclusions: Preliminary results of this study demonstrate strong reliability of cognitive EMA, indicating that EMA is a promising tool for evaluating fluctuations in cognitive status in this population. Future work should refine and expand the utility of these digital tools, determine how variable EMA frequencies might better characterize changes in functioning as they relate to blood-based biomarkers, and validate a singular battery that could be rapidly administered at scale and in clinical trials to determine the progression of disease. ", doi="10.2196/63644", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63644", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40072884" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60523, author="Senyard, Emma-Leigh and Rowe, Arlen and Krishnamoorthy, Govind and Spence, H. Susan and Donovan, Caroline and March, Sonja", title="The Role of Early Engagement in a Self-Directed, Digital Mental Health Intervention for Adolescent Anxiety: Moderated Regression Analysis", journal="JMIR Pediatr Parent", year="2025", month="Jun", day="2", volume="8", pages="e60523", keywords="youth", keywords="adolescent", keywords="teen", keywords="teenager", keywords="anxiety", keywords="eHealth", keywords="internet", keywords="engagement", keywords="mental health", keywords="participation", keywords="cognitive behavioral therapy", keywords="CBT", keywords="psychotherapy", keywords="self-help", keywords="self-guided", keywords="retention", keywords="attrition", keywords="dropout", keywords="digital mental health", keywords="web-based", abstract="Background: Digital mental health (dMH) interventions offer the ability to reach many more adolescents with anxiety than face-to-face therapy. While efficacious dMH interventions are available for adolescents, premature dropout and low engagement are common, especially if delivered on a self-help basis without any form of therapist guidance. This is concerning, given that higher engagement, in terms of the number of sessions completed, has been repeatedly associated with improved clinical outcomes. The reasons for poor adolescent engagement in dMH programs are unclear. A clear understanding of when and why disengagement occurs is important in order to seek to improve engagement rates. Contemporary models consider engagement as multifaceted, comprising both ``use'' (eg, amount of content completed, frequency of use, duration spent logged into the dMH program, and depth of use, such as word or character count) and ``user experience'' (eg, interest and satisfaction in the program and affect and attention whilst engaging in the program). Objective: This study investigated the role of demographic and early engagement (EE) factors, specifically program use, in predicting overall program engagement and continued engagement, respectively, in a self-directed, internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy program for adolescent anxiety, namely, BRAVE Self-Help. It examined multiple measures of program use, including task completion, homework completion, and depth of response (character count of responses typed into program tasks). It also examined the moderating role of baseline anxiety severity. Methods: Data collected between July 2014 and May 2020 from 2850 adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who participated in BRAVE Self-Help were analyzed via a series of moderated regressions. Results: Results showed that EE (in terms of program use) was associated with continued engagement, demonstrated by early tasks (tasks completed in the first two sessions; R2=0.035; P<.001) and early depth (characters written in the first two sessions; R2=0.08; P<.001) predicting continued depth of program response (total character count of responses typed into all program tasks from sessions 3 to 10). Demographic factors and anxiety severity did not directly impact adolescents' engagement in BRAVE Self-Help. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need to investigate ways to (1) enhance EE and (2) better understand how to measure and capture all aspects of program engagement. ", doi="10.2196/60523", url="https://pediatrics.jmir.org/2025/1/e60523" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69309, author="Burn, Anne-Marie and Gains, Hayley and Anderson, K. Joanna", title="A Self-Harm Awareness Training Module for School Staff: Co-Design and User Testing Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Jun", day="2", volume="9", pages="e69309", keywords="self-harm", keywords="schools", keywords="young people", keywords="youth", keywords="school staff", keywords="training", keywords="co-design", keywords="qualitative", abstract="Background: The increasing prevalence of self-harm among adolescents is a significant public health concern. School staff are often the first professionals to notice when a young person is self-harming and are in a unique position to intervene and offer support. However, research indicates that many school staff members feel ill-equipped and lack confidence in how to respond. Negative or dismissive responses may discourage young people from seeking further help. There is an urgent need for targeted training interventions to equip school staff with the skills and knowledge necessary to support students who self-harm. Objective: This study aimed to co-design a self-harm awareness e-learning module for school staff in the United Kingdom. Methods: The e-learning module design and development was guided by a person-based approach over three participatory design cycles: (1) co-design sessions with experts in mental health, self-harm, and school-based training; (2) workshops with school staff to co-design the e-learning module components and explore their views on supporting students who self-harm; and (3) user testing of the prototype and focus groups with school staff to explore acceptability and feasibility. Data were thematically analyzed using the framework method. Results: Training content, videos, and quizzes were developed in collaboration with a panel of experts. Co-design workshops with school staff (n=11) informed the prototype module design, structure, and scripts for the training content and filmed scenarios, as well as highlighting potential barriers to and facilitators of implementation. User testing of the prototype with staff (n=20) yielded high usability ratings, demonstrating high levels of acceptability. Analysis of the qualitative user testing data generated four themes: (1) usability, (2) content and design, (3) feasibility, and (4) views on how the training improved knowledge and confidence. Conclusions: The Supportive Response to Self-Harm e-learning module was developed to enhance school staff's knowledge and confidence in responding to self-harm. It was created with a user-centered design and a person-based approach and underpinned by psychological theory. Initial findings indicate that the training is acceptable and feasible. Further research will involve a mixed methods pilot feasibility study to assess the effectiveness of the program. This will provide the necessary evidence for a large-scale rollout in schools. ", doi="10.2196/69309", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69309" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/58163, author="Darville-Sanders, Gabrielle and Munroe, Dominique and Corluyan, Emilie and Ikoiwak, Utibeabasi and Nguyen, Jennifer and Mandula, Chad and Thomas, Portia and Sanders, Brandon", title="Components of a Digital Storytelling Intervention for Human Papillomavirus and Cancer Prevention Among LGBTQ+ Individuals: Formative Mixed Methods Inquiry", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="30", volume="9", pages="e58163", keywords="human papillomavirus", keywords="vaccination", keywords="cancer prevention", keywords="digital storytelling", keywords="public health", abstract="Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections in the United States; however, vaccination uptake falls far below the goal of 80\% of the population set forth by Healthy People 2030. Specifically, within the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning) population, HPV vaccination adherence remains a complex issue. Due to the widespread use of technology within the young adult population, digital health tools such as digital storytelling (DST) have been promoted as an effective way to increase vaccination uptake. Objective: The purpose of this study was to conduct a formative inquiry into (1) what components should be considered for inclusion in an HPV documentary tailored for sexual and gender minority populations and (2) what dissemination channels would be more effective and impact the uptake and completion of the HPV vaccine among sexual and gender minority populations. Additionally, this study aims to provide insight into perceived HPV risk and its implications on the HPV vaccine uptake within the LGBTQ+ population. Methods: A mixed methods study was conducted between January 2021 and September 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. Intake surveys were distributed to individuals identifying as members of the LGBTQ+ community to examine demographic characteristics, barriers to vaccine adherence, and current HPV vaccination status. Perceived HPV risk was assessed using 5 statements on a 1 to 7 Likert scale. Key informant interviews were conducted via Zoom with participants who completed the intake surveys and consented to be interviewed. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using the constant comparison method for emergent themes surrounding components of effective DST campaigns. Results: Forty-seven individuals completed the intake survey and interview. A total of 13 out of 47 (27.7\%) of participants indicated that they were not sure when provided with the statement ``I am likely to get HPV'', whereas 12 out of 47 (29.8\%) participants strongly disagreed with the statement ``I am at high risk for getting HPV'' and 13 out of 47 (27.7\%) participants indicated that they were not sure when presented with the statement ``HPV would be a serious threat to the quality of my life.'' A total of 14 out of 47 (29.8\%) participants responded that they were not sure to the statement ``HPV would be a severe threat to my health'' and 13 out of 47 (27.7\%) participants strongly agreed that ``HPV would be a severe threat to my sex life.'' Qualitative analysis indicated a high level of stigma experienced in interactions between the LGBTQ+ population and private practitioners. Major barriers to vaccination hesitancy were concerns about age, perceived reduced risk, and lack of provider recommendation. Participant interviews revealed that ``Real Outcomes,'' and ``Accurate Representation'' were the main components that should be considered for inclusion in an HPV documentary tailored for sexual and gender minority populations. Conclusions: Creation of a DST intervention within the LGBTQ+ population should include information surrounding the real outcomes of HPV and accurate representation. ", doi="10.2196/58163", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e58163" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65559, author="Hagoort, Karin and Smeets, Kirsten and Koldijk, Saskia and Scheepers, Floortje and Velders, Fleur", title="Collecting Real-Life Psychophysiological Data via Wearables to Better Understand Child Behavior in a Children's Psychiatric Center: Mixed Methods Study on Feasibility and Implementation", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="30", volume="9", pages="e65559", keywords="feasibility study", keywords="wearable technology", keywords="psychophysiological data", keywords="arousal", keywords="child psychiatry", keywords="aggressive behavior", keywords="implementation science", keywords="wearable", keywords="device", keywords="clinical care", keywords="feasibility", keywords="child", keywords="children", keywords="psychiatric center", keywords="psychiatry", keywords="mental health", keywords="aggression", keywords="observational", keywords="aggressive", keywords="behavior", keywords="wristband", keywords="psychophysiological arousal", keywords="interview", keywords="implementation", abstract="Background: In the field of mental health care, the incorporation of wearable devices into routine clinical practice continues to face significant challenges, despite the presence of supporting scientific evidence. Crossing the wasteland between the trial world and the real world is full of obstacles that often only become apparent during the implementation process. Objective: The objective of this paper was to evaluate the feasibility of using wearables in real-world clinical settings for children with severe developmental problems to help understand and manage disruptive behavior and to gain insights for the development of forthcoming implementation strategies. Methods: A mixed methods design was used to examine two different aspects of the use of wearables in a clinical setting. The first quantitative part of this study focuses on the feasibility of using wearables to collect reliable data on psychophysiological measures during daily activities in children at a children's psychiatric center. The second qualitative part focuses on the evaluation of the implementation process using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to identify essential steps to successfully incorporate wearable technology in clinical care for children with severe behavioral problems. Empatica E4 wristbands collected data on children's psychophysiological arousal (eg, heart rate [HR] and skin conductance level [SCL]). Staff reported aggressive behavior and daily activities. Data were processed and visualized in a dashboard. User experiences were assessed through interviews with clinical staff. The implementation process was evaluated using the CFIR. Results: A total of 30 children (27 boys and 3 girls, aged 6 to 14 y; mean age 9.3 y, SD 1.95) wore the wearable for 5 consecutive days. As expected, the children found it easy to wear the device and the clinical staff predominantly expressed positive attitudes toward its use. The data collection proceeded relatively smoothly, and the collected data were of sufficient quality. In total, 315 observations of aggressive behavior were reported, including 54 red incidents (from 18 unique participants) and 261 orange incidents (from 26 unique participants). An exploratory analysis on the association between psychophysiological measures and aggressive behavior revealed that children's HR was significantly higher during aggressive incidents compared to nonaggressive incidents (P=.007). Although not statistically significant, there was a trend suggesting higher peaks per minute during aggressive incidents (P=.07). No significant differences between aggressive and nonaggressive incidents were found for SCL and movement (P=.33 and P=.60). The most challenging CFIR domains in our study were the ``characteristics of the intervention'' and ``the inner setting,'' reflected in the fact that that the majority of implementation activities were focused on these two domains. Conclusions: The use of wearables in a real-world study setting is considered feasible and valuable. However, for broader scaling in daily clinical practice, coherent actions on different domains of implementation are required. ", doi="10.2196/65559", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65559" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/71408, author="Sjoblom, Linnea and Stenbeck, Freja and Trolle Lagerros, Ylva and Hantikainen, Essi and Bonn, E. Stephanie", title="Engagement With a Smartphone-Delivered Dietary Education Intervention and Its Relation to Dietary Intake and Cardiometabolic Risk Markers in People With Type 2 Diabetes: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="30", volume="9", pages="e71408", keywords="adherence", keywords="dietary change", keywords="diabetes mellitus", keywords="type 2 diabetes mellitus", keywords="healthy diet", keywords="mHealth", keywords="smartphone app", keywords="user engagement", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Mobile health (mHealth) interventions offer a promising way to support healthy lifestyle habits, but effectiveness depends on user engagement. Maintaining high user engagement in app-based interventions is important, yet challenging. Objective: We aimed to examine the association between user engagement with an app-based dietary education for people with type 2 diabetes and changes in diet quality, dietary intake, and clinical measures. Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, people with type 2 diabetes were recruited within primary care and randomized 1:1 to a 12-week smartphone-delivered app-based dietary education or control group. Participants were followed up after 3, 6, and 12 months. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. The control group received the app at the 3-month follow-up. User engagement was analyzed among all participants. Categories of high (100\%), moderate (50\%?99.9\%), and low (<50\%) user engagement were created based on the percentage of activities completed in the app. We used paired t tests to compare mean changes in diet quality, dietary intake, and clinical markers within user engagement groups, and fitted linear regression models to analyze differences in change between groups. Results: Data from 119 participants (60.5\%, 72/119 men) were analyzed. The mean age at baseline was 63.2 (SD 10.3) years and mean BMI was 30.1 (SD 5.1) kg/m2. User engagement was high with an average of 77.1\% of app activities completed. More than half (53.8\%, 64/119) of the users showed high user engagement, 21.8\% (26/119) moderate, and 24.4\% (29/119) low. Directly following the app-based education, a significant difference in change was seen for whole grains ($\beta$=20.4, 95\%CI 0.57?40.3) in participants with high user engagement compared to the low user engagement group who decreased their intake (P=.03). At follow-up after 6 to 9 months after completed education, significant differences in change were seen for fiber, wholegrains, carbohydrates, saturated fat, sodium, and total energy in the moderate compared with the low engagement group, and a significant difference in change was seen for carbohydrates in the high, compared with the low, user engagement group. Conclusions: User engagement was generally high for the smartphone-based dietary education, suggesting that an app targeting dietary habits is feasible to use. Those with higher user engagement seem to maintain healthier dietary behaviours over time, compared to those with low user engagement. Future mHealth interventions should focus on ways to engage those with low interest. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03784612; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03784612 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/24422 ", doi="10.2196/71408", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e71408" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/74401, author="Fujita, Junichi and Takayama, Mizuho and Kamono, Emi and Shinoda, Satoru and Yamaguchi, Hiroyuki and Moroga, Tomoko and Ishii, Mio and Miyazaki, Tomoyuki", title="Insights From the Nihon Housou Kyoukai's Virtual Reality--Based Social Interaction Television Program ``Project Aliens'' for Adolescents With Psychiatric Disorders: Single-Center Case Series Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="30", volume="9", pages="e74401", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="social interaction", keywords="adolescents", keywords="mental health", keywords="case series", keywords="peer support", keywords="therapeutic facilitation", abstract="Background: Virtual reality (VR) technology is emerging as a tool in mental health care, providing a safe space for social interaction and therapeutic engagement. A social VR-based television program broadcast on Japanese public television offers a virtual environment where adolescents with mental health challenges can engage in peer support using alien avatars, reducing barriers to communication and encouraging emotional expression. Objective: This case series aimed to document the psychological trajectories of adolescents with psychiatric disorders participating in a social VR-based television program. Methods: A single-center case series was conducted with 3 adolescents with psychiatric disorders (aged 15, 18, and 19 years) who participated in the social VR-based television program. The study focused on examining patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including psychological measures and qualitative experiences, and clinical observations across program participation and broadcast viewing. Psychological measures, including the Japanese versions of the 3-item Short-Form University of California, Los Angeles Loneliness Scale (UCLA-LS3-J SF-3), the 14-item Resilience Scale, short form (RS-14), and the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), were assessed at 3 time points: baseline, prebroadcast, and postbroadcast. Qualitative analysis of participant dialogue explored themes of self-disclosure, emotional expression, and social dynamics. Results: Participants showed improvements in loneliness, resilience, and depressive symptoms after participating in the social VR-based program, as indicated by psychological measures and PROs. Qualitative analysis suggested that the structured facilitation embedded in the program enabled participants to express positive and negative emotions, promoting self-reflection and mutual support. Conclusions: This case series suggests that structured social VR programs can provide a supportive platform for emotional exploration and psychological growth among adolescents with psychiatric disorders. The combination of avatar-based interaThis case series suggests that structured social VR-based programs can provide a supportive platform for emotional exploration and psychological growth among adolescents with psychiatric disorders. The combination of avatar-based interaction and therapeutic facilitation may offer a novel approach to engaging young people in mental health care, particularly during waiting periods for traditional psychiatric services.ction and therapeutic facilitation may offer a novel approach to engaging young people in mental health care, particularly during waiting periods for traditional psychiatric services. ", doi="10.2196/74401", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e74401" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/56057, author="Chen, Donghao and Wang, Pengfei and Zhang, Xiaolong and Qiao, Runqi and Li, Nanxi and Zhang, Xiaodong and Zhang, Honggang and Wang, Gang", title="Comparative Efficacy of MultiModal AI Methods in Screening for Major Depressive Disorder: Machine Learning Model Development Predictive Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="30", volume="9", pages="e56057", keywords="major depressive disorder", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="computational psychiatry", keywords="facial action unit", keywords="multimodal analysis", keywords="multiparadigm analysis", keywords="MDD", abstract="Background: Conventional approaches for major depressive disorder (MDD) screening rely on two effective but subjective paradigms: self-rated scales and clinical interviews. Artificial intelligence (AI) can potentially contribute to psychiatry, especially through the use of objective data such as objective audiovisual signals. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different paradigms using AI analysis on audiovisual signals. Methods: We recruited 89 participants (mean age, 37.1 years; male: 30/89, 33.7\%; female: 59/89, 66.3\%), including 41 patients with MDD and 48 asymptomatic participants. We developed AI models using facial movement, acoustic, and text features extracted from videos obtained via a tool, incorporating four paradigms: conventional scale (CS), question and answering (Q\&A), mental imagery description (MID), and video watching (VW). Ablation experiments and 5-fold cross-validation were performed using two AI methods to ascertain the efficacy of paradigm combinations. Attention scores from the deep learning model were calculated and compared with correlation results to assess comprehensibility. Results: In video clip-based analyses, Q\&A outperformed MID with a mean binary sensitivity of 79.06\% (95\%CI 77.06\%?83.35\%; P=.03) and an effect size of 1.0. Among individuals, the combination of Q\&A and MID outperformed MID alone with a mean extent accuracy of 80.00\% (95\%CI 65.88\%?88.24\%; P= .01), with an effect size 0.61. The mean binary accuracy exceeded 76.25\% for video clip predictions and 74.12\% for individual-level predictions across the two AI methods, with top individual binary accuracy of 94.12\%. The features exhibiting high attention scores demonstrated a significant overlap with those that were statistically correlated, including 18 features (all Ps<.05), while also aligning with established nonverbal markers. Conclusions: The Q\&A paradigm demonstrated higher efficacy than MID, both individually and in combination. Using AI to analyze audiovisual signals across multiple paradigms has the potential to be an effective tool for MDD screening. ", doi="10.2196/56057", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e56057" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67745, author="Bondre, P. Ameya and Ranjan, Aashish and Shrivastava, Ritu and Tugnawat, Deepak and Chaturvedi, Kumar Nirmal and Bhan, Anant and Gupta, Snehil and Rozatkar, R. Abhijit and Nagendra, Srilakshmi and Dutt, Siddharth and Choudhary, Soumya and Reddy, V. Preethi and Mehta, Meherwan Urvakhsh and Naslund, A. John and Torous, John", title="Analyzing Trends in Suicidal Thoughts Among Patients With Psychosis in India: Exploratory Secondary Analysis of Smartphone Ecological Momentary Assessment Data", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="29", volume="9", pages="e67745", keywords="schizophrenia", keywords="suicidality", keywords="ecological momentary assessments", keywords="India", keywords="trends", keywords="suicidal", keywords="suicidal ideation", keywords="suicides", keywords="suicidal thoughts", keywords="EMA", keywords="mobile apps", keywords="exploratory study", keywords="psychosis", keywords="smartphone", keywords="tertiary hospitals", keywords="outpatients", abstract="Background: India has the world's largest number of suicides, but there is little research on the trends in suicidal thoughts, especially for individuals with psychosis. More research is necessary to develop preventive interventions. Smartphone-based ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) can assess dynamic symptoms, but most EMA studies are conducted in higher income settings and have shorter (?1 month) follow-up periods. Objective: This study aimed to examine the duration of onset to offset of suicidal ideation (SI) in tertiary hospital outpatients with psychosis in India. Methods: This study is an exploratory, secondary analysis of smartphone EMA data nested within the ongoing ``Smartphone Health Assessment for Relapse Prevention (SHARP)'' project. Tertiary hospital outpatients (n=50) with early course schizophrenia at 2 socioculturally different sites in India were recruited and given the ``mindLAMP'' app for monitoring mood through daily EMA surveys. The mood survey matched the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire; the ninth item was used to define an instance of SI (score ?1). A total of 14 patients with ?1 SI instances who met the site-specific EMA survey use cutoff were included. We examined the between- and within-person variability in SI and computed the timescale of ``episodic'' SI (sequences of consecutive daily observations of SI score ?1). Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess changes in psychosis symptoms and its relationship with the temporality of SI. Results: Over approximately 11 (SD 2.1) months of EMA reporting on average, 3253 mood surveys were filled by the 14 participants (median 213, IQR 147?256). A total of 521 instances of SI were reported. Monthly SI instances showed substantial within- and between-person variations. Timescale summary statistics revealed episodic SI patterns in 11 patients, with an average of 5.9 episodes (SD 4.4; range:1?14; n=65) with an episode lasting on average 2.5 days (SD 1.5; range:1?5.3; n=27). There was an average lag of approximately 59, 66, and 81 days between the time of the first drop in PANSS positive, negative, and general psychopathology scores, respectively, and the last reported SI instance. Results after imputation of missing data showed an average of 12.1 episodes and 228 days (average lag) between the first drop in PANSS scores and last reported SI. This indicated that SI was an enduring vulnerability subsequent to the beginning of clinical improvement in psychosis. Conclusions: Our study adds to the much-needed evidence base in India to measure the dynamics of suicidal thinking within an individual, for more targeted preventive interventions. Further steps in EMA research are highlighted such as the use of higher frequency ``burst'' surveys to assess the duration of an SI episode in hours or minutes, and inclusion of both active and passive SI markers to measure the timescale of suicidal thinking. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.1192/bjo.2020.142 ", doi="10.2196/67745", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67745" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67311, author="Tang, Jun and Li, Yang and Luo, Keyu and Lai, Jiangyuan and Yin, Xiang and Wu, Dongdong", title="Application of the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers Model for Predicting the Abbreviated Injury Scale in Patients with Trauma: Algorithm Development and Validation Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="29", volume="9", pages="e67311", keywords="trauma", keywords="abbreviated injury scale", keywords="deep learning", keywords="diagnostic information", keywords="transformer model", keywords="validation study", abstract="Background: Deaths related to physical trauma impose a heavy burden on society, and the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) is an important tool for injury research. AIS covers injuries to various parts of the human body and scores them based on the severity of the injury. In practical applications, the complex AIS coding rules require experts to encode by consulting patient medical records, which inevitably increases the difficulty, time, and cost of evaluation of patient and also puts higher demands on the workload of information collection and processing. In some cases, the sheer number of patients or the inability to access detailed medical records necessary for coding further complicates independent AIS codes. Objective: This study aims to use advanced deep learning techniques to predict AIS codes based on easily accessible diagnostic information of patients to improve the accuracy of trauma assessment. Methods: We used a dataset of patients with trauma (n=26,810) collected by the Chongqing Daping Hospital between October 2013 and June 2024. We mainly selected the patient's diagnostic information, injury description, cause of injury, injury region, injury types, and present illness history as the key feature inputs. We used a robust optimization Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) pretraining method to embed these features and constructed a prediction model based on BERT. This model aims to predict AIS codes and comprehensively evaluate its performance through a 5-fold cross-validation. We compared the BERT model with previous research results and current mainstream machine learning methods to verify its advantages in prediction tasks. In addition, we also conducted external validation of the model using 244 external data points from the Chongqing Emergency Center. Results: The BERT model proposed in this paper performs significantly better than the comparison model on independent test datasets with an accuracy of 0.8971, which surpassed the previous study by 10 \% points. In addition, the area under the curve (AUC value of the BERT model is 0.9970, and the F1-score is 0.8434. In the external dataset, the accuracy, AUC, and F1-score results of the model are 0.7131, 0.8586, and 0.6801, respectively. These results indicate that our model has high generalization ability and prediction accuracy. Conclusions: The BERT model we proposed is mainly based on diagnostic information to predict AIS codes, and its prediction accuracy is superior to previous investigations and current mainstream machine learning methods. It has a high generalization ability in external datasets. ", doi="10.2196/67311", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67311" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/62830, author="Liu, Y. Albert and Torres, S. Thiago and Alleyne, Cat-Dancing and Vinson, Janie and Bojan, Kelly and Serrano, Alonso Pedro and Oyedele, Temitope and Garcia, Amayvis and Enriquez-Bruce, Elizabeth and Emmanuel, Patricia and Jones, Jeb and Muessig, E. Kathryn and Buchbinder, P. Susan and Sullivan, Patrick and Hightow-Weidman, B. Lisa and Scott, Hyman", title="Developing a Novel Mobile App to Support HIV Testing and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Uptake Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: Formative and Technical Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="May", day="29", volume="12", pages="e62830", keywords="HIV testing", keywords="sexually transmitted infection testing", keywords="pre-exposure prophylaxis", keywords="youth", keywords="men who have sex with men", keywords="sexual minority men", keywords="mobile health", keywords="HIV prevention", keywords="STI", abstract="Background: Young sexual minority men (YSMM) are disproportionately impacted by HIV in the United States. HIV or sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing rates and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake are low in this priority population. Novel strategies are needed to increase access to HIV and STI prevention services among YSMM. Objective: This study aims to describe the development and assess the feasibility and acceptability of LYNX, a mobile app to increase HIV testing and PrEP uptake among YSMM. Methods: Informed by the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model, the LYNX app was refined through 4 iterative focus groups in 2 US cities among YSMM aged 15 to 24 years. The LYNX app includes SexPro, an innovative tool that provides a personalized sexual health protection score, a sex diary to track sexual partners, HIV and STI testing information and reminders, access to home HIV and STI test kits, and geospatial-based testing and PrEP clinic site information. The refined app was then tested for feasibility and acceptability in a 2-month technical pilot. Baseline and 2-month follow-up assessments and exit interviews were completed. Self-reported app acceptability and use based on paradata were reported. Results: In iterative focus groups among 30 participants (age: mean 20, SD 3 years; Black: 12/30, 40\%; Hispanic or Latinx: 13/30, 43\%), the app's design was well-received. Participants recommended providing information on how the SexPro score was calculated and how they could improve their score, changes to the language in the sex diary tailored for YSMM, providing a chat feature to facilitate communication between staff and app users, and gamification features to increase overall youth engagement with the app. These recommendations were incorporated into the app. In the technical pilot among 17 participants (age: mean 22.4, SD 1.6 years; Black: 4/17, 24\%; Hispanic or Latinx: 8/17, 47\%), the mean system usability score was 70 out of 100, falling in the ``good'' range. Use of the app was high over the 2-month pilot (app opened an average of 8.5, SD 8.0 times with an average duration of 3.8, SD 3.2 min/session), indicating good feasibility. The most commonly used features included the testing feature (n=15, 100\%), activity calendar (n=14, 93\%), and diary (n=13, 86\%). Overall, 11 (79\%) participants were likely to continue using LYNX, and 10 (71\%) participants were likely to recommend it to a friend. In exit interviews, there was a high level of acceptability of the content, interface, and features of the LYNX app. Conclusions: Following a user-centered design approach, we tailored the LYNX app to increase HIV and STI testing and PrEP uptake among YSMM in the United States. Our positive findings support further testing of this mobile health tool in an upcoming effectiveness trial in broader youth populations. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03177512; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03177512 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/10659 ", doi="10.2196/62830", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e62830" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65665, author="Mak, S. Selene and Nally, M. Laura and Montoya, Juanita and Marrero, Rebecca and DeJonckheere, Melissa and Joiner, L. Kevin and Nam, Soohyun and Ash, I. Garrett", title="An Exergames Program for Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes: Qualitative Study of Acceptability", journal="JMIR Diabetes", year="2025", month="May", day="28", volume="10", pages="e65665", keywords="diabetes education", keywords="exercise", keywords="lifestyle modification", keywords="pediatrics", keywords="psychosocial-behavioral modification", keywords="diabetes mellitus, type 1", keywords="adolescent", keywords="self-management", keywords="exergames", keywords="qualitative study", keywords="acceptability", keywords="physical activity", keywords="youths", keywords="children", keywords="interviews", keywords="physical activity intervention", keywords="virtual intervention", keywords="video game", keywords="awareness", abstract="Background: Numerous barriers to moderate to vigorous physical activity exist for youths with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The virtual exercise games for youth with T1D (ExerT1D) intervention implement synchronous support of moderate to vigorous physical activity including T1D peers and role models. Objective: This study aims to understand the acceptability of this intervention to participants. Methods: We conducted postprogram, semistructured, televideo interviews with participating youths to elicit perspectives on the acceptability of the intervention and experience with the program. Two coders independently reviewed and analyzed each transcript using a coding scheme developed inductively by senior researchers. Discrepancies were resolved by team discussion, and multiple codes were grouped together to produce 4 main thematic areas. Results: All 15 participants provided interviews (aged 14-19 years; 2 nonbinary, 6 females; median hemoglobin A1c level of 7.8\% (IQR 7.4\%-11.2\%), 5 with a hemoglobin A1c level of ?10\%). Qualitative data revealed four themes: (1) motivation to engage in physical activity (PA)---improving their physical capabilities and stabilizing glucose levels were cited as motivation for PA and challenges of living with T1D were cited as PA barriers; (2) experience with and motivation to manage diabetes while engaging in PA---participants provided details of accommodating the inherent uncertainty or limitations of PA with diabetes and sometimes preparing for PA involved psychological and motivational adjustments while some relayed feelings of avoidance; (3) peer support encouraged engagement with the intervention---participants appreciated the peer aspects of components of ExerT1D and participants' reflections of the facilitated group experience highlight many benefits of a small-group virtual program; and (4) improvements in PA and diabetes self-management efficacy---all participants credited the program with improving or at least raising awareness of T1D management skills. Conclusions: Our virtual PA intervention using an active video game and discussion component provided adolescents with T1D the confidence and peer support to engage in PA, improved awareness of diabetes-specific tasks to prepare for exercise, and improved understanding of the effect of PA on glucose levels. Engaging youths with a virtual video game intervention is a viable approach to overcome barriers to PA for adolescents with T1D. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05163912; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05163912 ", doi="10.2196/65665", url="https://diabetes.jmir.org/2025/1/e65665" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65489, author="Zlatar, Z. Zvinka and Greenwood-Hickman, Anne Mikael and Lujan, Martinez Lazaro N. and Cooper, Julie and Florez-Acevedo, Stefani and Marquez, X. David and Aceves, Gutierrez Rosa and Vargas, Paula Andrea and Rosenberg, E. Dori", title="Feasibility and Cultural Adaptation of a Community-Engaged Physical Activity Intervention for Hispanic Older Adults: Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="27", volume="9", pages="e65489", keywords="lifestyle", keywords="dementia risk reduction", keywords="brain health", keywords="sedentary", keywords="exercise", abstract="Background: The adult Hispanic population of the United States faces an increased risk of dementia compared to non-Hispanic White adults. Physical activity (PA) can help reduce dementia risk, but culturally adapted interventions for Hispanic populations are lacking. Culturally adapted interventions are needed to increase uptake and adherence to brain health promotion strategies in the Hispanic community. Objective: The De Pie y a Movernos intervention aims to reduce barriers to participation in clinical research by culturally adapting a remotely based PA intervention for middle-aged and older Hispanic adults and establish its feasibility and acceptability through a pre-post pilot study. Findings from the cultural adaptation process will inform a stage II PA randomized controlled trial. Methods: The adaptation process followed Barrera and Castro's 2006 cultural adaptation framework and included a literature review, translation of intervention materials, review by a Hispanic-comprised community advisory board and bilingual staff, and a pre-post pilot study (N=10) with subsequent focus groups to refine the intervention. The pilot intervention included the use of Fitbit activity trackers and 2 individualized goal-setting calls with a health coach over a period of 3 weeks. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed using both quantitative methods and qualitative focus groups. Primary quantitative outcomes included enrollment, recruitment, and completion rates, as well as acceptability (predetermined satisfaction survey scores ?3). Focus groups were thematically coded to identify themes for participants' opinions about several aspects of the intervention and explore key barriers and facilitators to PA engagement to improve the planned stage II trial. Results: Ten Hispanic adults (age: mean 62.7, SD 5.3 years; education: mean 11.8, SD 3.8 years; n=9, 90\% female; n=9, 90\% Spanish-speaking) participated in the pre-post pilot, with a 100\% completion rate, 50\% enrollment rate, and a recruitment rate of 5 participants per month. Acceptability was high (mean score 4.6, SD 0.3; range 1?5). Qualitative analyses indicated that participants had high satisfaction with the intervention. They expressed a preference for adding group-based activities and increased interaction with study staff. Key barriers to PA included lack of awareness about the benefits of PA, low self-efficacy, time constraints, health conditions, and weather, while facilitators included awareness of PA's cognitive benefits, social support from family or friends, accountability, enjoyable activities, self-efficacy, and Fitbit use. Insights from participants and community advisory board recommendations led to modifications for the larger trial, such as incorporating group-based elements for those who want them and adding an option for teleconference coaching calls. Conclusions: The cultural adaptation process was essential in refining the intervention to align with the preferences of older Hispanic adults, which resulted in a feasible and acceptable intervention. Findings will inform a planned stage II randomized controlled trial aimed at promoting PA and reducing dementia risk in older Hispanic adults. ", doi="10.2196/65489", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65489" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/71285, author="Eidenmueller, Katharina and Hoffmann, Sabine and Kammler-S{\"u}cker, Kornelius and Wenger, Leonard and Mazza, Massimiliano and M{\"u}hle, Christiane and Stenger, Manuel and Meixner, Gerrit and Kiefer, Falk and Lenz, Bernd", title="Reactivity to Smoking Cues in a Social Context: Virtual Reality Experiment", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="26", volume="9", pages="e71285", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="smoking", keywords="cue reactivity", keywords="craving", keywords="social context", abstract="Background: Social contextual factors influence the onset and maintenance of substance abuse. Virtual reality (VR) provides a standardized method to present social stimuli and is increasingly used in addiction research. Objective: This study examines the influence of a smoking versus a nonsmoking agent in VR on craving in nicotine-dependent male participants. Our primary hypothesis was that the interaction with a smoking agent is associated with increased craving compared to a nonsmoking agent. We expected higher craving in the presence of an agent regardless of the agent's smoking status. Methods: Using a head-mounted display (Oculus Rift), 50 nicotine-dependent smokers were exposed to four VR conditions on a virtual marketplace: first without an agent, second and third with an agent who either smoked or did not smoke in randomized order, and fourth without an agent as a follow-up condition. Before the follow-up condition, participants smoked a cigarette. Craving was assessed with the Questionnaire of Smoking Urges and a visual analog scale within VR and after each session. We also examined anxiety and agitation (visual analog scale), immersion and presence with the igroup Presence Questionnaire, and salivary cortisol levels. Results: Results showed no significant difference in the participants' craving, anxiety, or agitation between the smoking and nonsmoking agent conditions. However, craving, anxiety, and agitation increased from the marketplace without an interacting agent to the conditions with an interacting agent, and decreased after smoking a cigarette. Immersion was low in all conditions and decreased over time. Salivary cortisol levels were highest at baseline and decreased over the course of the experiment. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the presence of an agent (as a contextual factor) may override the specific influence of proximal stimuli (burning cigarette). The low immersion highlights the challenges in developing effective VR environments for cue exposure. Trial Registration: Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien DRKS00025746; https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00025746 ", doi="10.2196/71285", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e71285" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66750, author="Ikegaya, Mai and Foo, Clifford Jerome and Murata, Taiga and Oshima, Kenta and Kim, Jinhyuk", title="Using Personalized Intervention Criteria in a Mobile Just-in-Time Adaptive Intervention for Increasing Physical Activity in University Students: Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="May", day="26", volume="12", pages="e66750", keywords="physical activity", keywords="just-in-time adaptive intervention", keywords="mHealth", keywords="consumer-wearable activity trackers", keywords="multilevel model", keywords="activity tracker", keywords="wearable", keywords="behavioral change", keywords="effectiveness", keywords="activity monitor", keywords="activity monitoring", keywords="long-term intervention", keywords="chronic disease", keywords="prevention", keywords="treatment", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mobile phone", keywords="digital health", keywords="smartphone", abstract="Background: While the health benefits of physical activity are well-known, adherence to regular physical activity remains a major challenge. Just-in-time adaptive intervention (JITAI) has been proposed as one method to increase physical activity by delivering an intervention at a time when individuals are more likely to make behavioral changes. However, most studies that have implemented JITAI have used uniform intervention criteria (UIC) across participants rather than personalized intervention criteria (PIC) for the individual. Objective: The objective of this paper was to examine the effectiveness of using JITAI implemented with PIC to increase physical activity. Methods: Healthy university students wore a wrist activity monitor for 2 weeks. Participants were divided into 2 groups, which received JITAI to promote physical activity according to either PIC or UIC. In the first week, the mean distance moved and sedentary time per hour for each participant were calculated to derive PIC. UIC was obtained from a 2-week study with a different sample (n=47) conducted under the same conditions. In the second week, JITAI prompts were sent every hour if both of the following criteria were met: the distance moved was shorter, and sedentary time was longer than PIC or UIC. Differences in changes in physical activity as a result of implementing interventions according to PIC and UIC were analyzed using multilevel models. Results: We analyzed data from 28 healthy university students (18?23 y old, female n=12). Both PIC (P<.001) and UIC (P<.001) significantly increased physical activity in the first hour after JITAI was received. In that first hour, PIC increased physical activity more than UIC; more calories were burned (P=.02), more steps were taken (P=.007), and distance moved was increased (P=.003). However, over the course of the week, the use of JITAI did not significantly increase physical activity levels. Conclusions: Our results appear to suggest that PIC-based JITAI is more effective than UIC-based JITAI, consistent with the idea of a need for precision health approaches. Further research is needed to develop effective long-term intervention designs with sustainable effects. ", doi="10.2196/66750", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e66750" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/53617, author="Harris, Richard and Murray, Deirdre and McSweeney, Angela and Adam, Frederic", title="Clinician-Focused Connected Health Requirements Gathering for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Through Clinical Journey Mapping: Design Science Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="26", volume="9", pages="e53617", keywords="connected health", keywords="ADHD", keywords="Dundee clinical care pathway", keywords="integrated patient journey mapping tool", keywords="neurodevelopmental", keywords="design science", keywords="journey", keywords="map", keywords="mapping", keywords="diagram", keywords="visualization", keywords="attention deficit", keywords="information system", keywords="care pathway", keywords="design", keywords="implementation", keywords="integration", keywords="attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder", abstract="Background: Many health care systems globally face severe capacity issues, with lengthening waiting lists and stretched resources. Connected health has been proposed as a game changer for health care. However, the development of connected health apps is difficult and requires multidisciplinary development teams. Patient journey mapping presents an opportunity to streamline the requirements-gathering process for such apps by clearly showing the patient journey to team members who are not familiar with relevant clinical practices. This research project focuses on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a case study for using clinical journey mapping to represent the ``gold standard'' care pathway for ADHD treatment; the Dundee Clinical Care Pathway. This pathway was analyzed in detail and was further explored in discussions with stakeholders to produce a patient journey map. Objective: The objective of this paper is to answer three research questions: (1) visualizing the Dundee ADHD clinical care pathway using integrated patient journey mapping and exploring how its use benefits multidisciplinary development teams; (2) optimizing the integrated patient journey map arising from the Dundee Clinical Care Pathway, in line with the underlying clinical realities of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service in Ireland; and (3) proposing areas where connected health integration can deliver efficiency and substantial gains for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Methods: This study uses a design science approach where a sample artifact is presented to a relevant audience for review and feedback and is then leveraged to work iteratively toward an improved, final artifact. This paper presents the feedback collected from both information systems and clinical professionals at each iteration of the map. Results: This research delivers a comprehensive clinical patient journey map based on the Dundee clinical care pathway. Using unified modeling language concepts and color coding, multiple patient personas are mapped onto a streamlined diagram, allowing the diagram, at an abstract level, to cover the most typical clinical scenarios. Conclusions: Clinical journey mapping provides a way for team members to get up to speed on clinical practices, while also presenting a way for development teams to identify key gaps where connected health systems can be embedded in clinical pathways to optimize the use of clinical resources and ultimately deliver better patient outcomes. ", doi="10.2196/53617", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e53617" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63258, author="Geisler, Linny Birte and Petersen, Uwe Kay and Hanke, Sara and Schurer, Simon and Schreiber, Anne and L{\"a}mmle, Christine and Batra, Anil and Renner, Tobias and Brandhorst, Isabel", title="Ambivalent User Needs as a Challenge and Chance for the Design of a Web-Based Intervention for Gaming Disorder: Qualitative Interview Study With Adolescents and Young Adults", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="26", volume="9", pages="e63258", keywords="gaming disorder", keywords="user-centered design", keywords="self-guided web-based intervention", keywords="adolescents", keywords="young adults", keywords="youth", keywords="treatment needs", keywords="digital intervention", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="AI", abstract="Background: In Germany, there are still many young people with gaming disorder (GD) who do not use or cannot access existing treatment services. Given the increasing prevalence of internet use disorders and GD, especially among young people in Germany, there is a need to provide additional low-threshold treatment options that are easily accessible anywhere. Web-based interventions (WBIs) can be used to achieve this goal. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the treatment needs of young people with GD in Germany and derive implications for the development of a self-guided WBI for GD. Methods: Using a qualitative study design, we conducted a focus group with 3 young male adults and semistructured individual interviews with 3 male adolescents. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The reporting of this study followed the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) guidelines. Results: Participants' expectations of web-based help in general and of a self-guided WBI for GD revealed a wide variety of sometimes conflicting user needs. For example, by analyzing participants' experiences with successful strategies, we found that external stabilizers (eg, parental control and support group meetings) were helpful in managing GD. However, with regard to a WBI, participants described it as a barrier if the WBI created ``too much pressure.'' On the other hand, ``not enough pressure'' (ie, not enough external control) was also mentioned as a barrier. The belief that gaming is rewarding and that only equally rewarding activities are successful alternatives to gaming is in tension with the fact that changing problematic gaming behavior can be stressful and not feel rewarding at all. The data also showed that, on the one hand, a WBI should be designed to be attractive (eg, by incorporating gaming elements) but that it should not be too attractive as this, in turn, could trigger GD. Conclusions: A self-guided WBI for GD should consider and address conflicting user needs. Ambivalence of needs in the face of coping with GD should not be seen as a problem but as a normal part of a change process and, therefore, actively integrated into the WBI concept and storyline. Trial Registration: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00032334; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00032334 ", doi="10.2196/63258", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63258" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69838, author="Nguyen Tien, Dung and Thi Thu Bui, Huong and Hoang Thi Ngoc, Tram and Thi Pham, Thuy and Trung Nguyen, Dac and Nguyen Thi Thu, Huyen and Thu Hang Vu, Thi and Lan Anh Luong, Thi and Thu Hoang, Lan and Cam Tu, Ho and K{\"o}rber, Nina and Bauer, Tanja and Khanh Ho, Lam", title="A Data-Driven Approach to Assessing Hepatitis B Mother-to-Child Transmission Risk Prediction Model: Machine Learning Perspective", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="23", volume="9", pages="e69838", keywords="chronic hepatitis B virus infection", keywords="liver", keywords="pregnant women", keywords="cord blood", keywords="PBMCs (peripheral blood mononuclear cells)", keywords="ID3 (Iterative Dichotomiser 3)", keywords="CART (classification and regression trees)", abstract="Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be transmitted from mother to child either through transplacental infection or via blood-to-blood contact during or immediately after delivery. Early and accurate risk assessments are essential for guiding clinical decisions and implementing effective preventive measures. Data mining techniques are powerful tools for identifying key predictors in medical diagnostics. Objective: This study aims to develop a robust predictive model for mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HBV using decision tree algorithms, specifically Iterative Dichotomiser 3 (ID3) and classification and regression trees (CART). The study identifies clinically and paraclinically relevant predictors, particularly hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) status and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) concentration, for effective risk stratification and prevention. Additionally, we will assess the model's reliability and generalizability through cross-validation with various training-test split ratios, aiming to enhance its applicability in clinical settings and inform improved preventive strategies against HBV MTCT. Methods: This study used decision tree algorithms---ID3 and CART---on a data set of 60 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)--positive pregnant women. Samples were collected either before or at the time of delivery, enabling the inclusion of patients who were undiagnosed or had limited access to treatment. We analyzed both clinical and paraclinical parameters, with a particular focus on HBeAg status and PBMC concentration. Additional biochemical markers were evaluated for their potential contributory or inhibitory effects on MTCT risk. The predictive models were validated using multiple training-test split ratios to ensure robustness and generalizability. Results: Our analysis showed that 20 out of 48 (based on a split ratio of 0.8 from a total of 60 cases, 42\%) to 27 out of 57 (based on a split ratio of 0.95 from a total of 60 cases, 47\%) training cases with HBeAg-positive status were associated with a significant risk of MTCT of HBV ($\chi$28=21.16, P=.007, df=8). Among HBeAg-negative women, those with PBMC concentrations ?8 {\texttimes} 106 cells/mL exhibited a low risk of MTCT, whereas individuals with PBMC concentrations <8 {\texttimes} 106 cells/mL demonstrated a negligible risk. Across all training-test split ratios, the decision tree models consistently identified HBeAg status and PBMC concentration as the most influential predictors, underscoring their robustness and critical role in MTCT risk stratification. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that decision tree models are effective tools for stratifying the risk of MTCT of HBV by integrating key clinical and paraclinical markers. Among these, HBeAg status and PBMC concentration emerged as the most critical predictors. While the analysis focused on untreated patients, it provides a strong foundation for future investigations involving treated populations. These findings offer actionable insights to support the development of more targeted and effective HBV MTCT prevention strategies. ", doi="10.2196/69838", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69838" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68008, author="El-Gabalawy, Ren{\'e}e and Crooks, Megan and Smith, Dyck Michael Sean and Hammond, Elizabeth and Gross, Patrick and Roznik, Marinya and Perrin, David and Reynolds, Kristin and Logan, Gabrielle and Pankratz, Lily and Johnson, Hilary and Girling, Linda and Wiebe, Daniel", title="Treating Lower Phantom Limb Pain in the Postoperative Acute Care Setting Using Virtual Reality: Protocol for a 4-Phase Development and Feasibility Trial", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="May", day="23", volume="14", pages="e68008", keywords="phantom limb pain", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="lower limb amputation", keywords="graded motor imagery", keywords="feasibility", keywords="postoperative", keywords="acute", keywords="patient-centered", keywords="preventive", keywords="pre-emptive", abstract="Background: Phantom limb pain (PLP) affects most people living with lower limb amputations (LLAs). Nonpharmacological interventions, such as graded motor imagery (GMI), have demonstrated promise as PLP treatments. However, GMI access is limited by low patient buy-in and long public outpatient wait times. Considering PLP has been shown to be more prevalent and severe immediately following LLA, there is an urgent need to bypass barriers to allow for prompt access to PLP interventions. In response to this need, the multidisciplinary research team in this study developed a virtual reality (VR) program that administers GMI treatment. This novel intervention may be completed independently and promptly within the postoperative acute care setting. Before conducting a randomized controlled trial, the VR-GMI program must be developed and refined through a rigorous and multistage feasibility assessment. Objective: This protocol aims to outline the development and feasibility of the VR-GMI prototype for treating people with LLAs in the postoperative acute care setting (ie, inpatient and home settings) through an iterative, patient-centered, and descriptive approach. Methods: Four phases of prototype development and assessment were conducted. In phase 1 (completed), the VR-GMI prototype was developed in collaboration with engineers at the National Research Council and in consultation with patient partners. In phase 2 (completed), people with lived experience with amputations were recruited from local physiotherapy and prosthetic clinics to trial the VR-GMI program and provide feedback through semistructured interviews and self-report measures. Phase 3 (completed) consisted of a descriptive case series of individuals who trialed the VR-GMI prototype immediately following their LLAs in the hospital. Results from phase 3 informed the development of a primary quantitative feasibility study. Phase 4 (underway) aims to evaluate the acceptability and pilot outcomes of the VR-GMI program in hospital and home settings as well as improve study procedures for a future randomized controlled trial (phase 4A). Iterative developments were made to the VR-GMI program between each phase to improve prototype fidelity. These iterative developments will also be reviewed in a series of focus groups to finalize the VR-GMI prototype (phase 4B). Results: Recruitment for phases 1 and 2 was completed in September 2023. Phase 3 was completed in July 2024, and phase 4A is currently underway with 15 participants recruited as of March 2025. Conclusions: The intervention developed is the first VR PLP treatment implementing GMI and prioritizing an in-depth, patient-centered approach before assessing its efficacy. Doing so will improve the likelihood of successful clinical implementation. Moreover, very few PLP interventions have been assessed in the acute postoperative period when they may prevent PLP before its onset. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06638918; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06638918 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/68008 ", doi="10.2196/68008", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e68008" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67585, author="Hurwitz, Eric and Meltzer-Brody, Samantha and Butzin-Dozier, Zachary and Patel, C. Rena and Elhadad, No{\'e}mie and Haendel, A. Melissa", title="Unlocking the Potential of Wear Time of a Wearable Device to Enhance Postpartum Depression Screening and Detection: Cross-Sectional Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="23", volume="9", pages="e67585", keywords="wearable device", keywords="All of Us", keywords="postpartum depression", keywords="Fitbit", keywords="wear time", keywords="screening", abstract="Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mood disorder affecting 1 in 7 women after childbirth that is often underscreened and underdetected. If not diagnosed and treated, PPD is associated with long-term developmental challenges in the child and maternal morbidity. Wearable technologies, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers (eg, Fitbit), offer continuous and longitudinal digital phenotyping for mood disorder diagnosis and monitoring, with device wear time being an important yet understudied aspect. Objective: We aimed to suggest that wear time of a wearable device may provide additional information about perinatal mental health to facilitate screening and early detection of PPD. We proposed that wear time of a wearable device may also be valuable for managing other mental health disorders. Methods: Using the All of Us Research Program dataset, we identified females who experienced childbirth with and without PPD using computational phenotyping. We compared the percentage of days and number of hours per day females with and without PPD wore Fitbit devices during prepregnancy, pregnancy, postpartum, and PPD periods, determined by electronic health records. Comparisons between females with and without PPD were conducted using linear regression models. We also assessed the correlation between Fitbit wear time consistency (measured as the maximum number of consecutive days the Fitbit was worn) during prepregnancy and PPD periods in females with and without PPD using the Pearson correlation. All analyses were run with Bonferroni correction. Results: Our findings showed a strong trend, although nonsignificant after multiple testing correction, that females in the PPD cohort wore their Fitbits more than those in non-PPD cohort during the postpartum (PPD cohort: mean 69.9\%, 95\% CI 42.7\%-97\%; non-PPD cohort: mean 50\%, 95\% CI 25.5\%-74.4\%; P=.02) and PPD periods (PPD cohort: mean 66.6\%, 95\% CI 37.9\%-95.3\%; non-PPD cohort: mean 46.4\%, 95\% CI 20.5\%-72.2\%; P=.02). We found no difference in the number of hours per day females in the PPD and non-PPD cohorts wore their Fitbit during any period of pregnancy. Finally, there was no relationship between the consistency of Fitbit wear time during prepregnancy and PPD periods (r=--0.05, 95\% CI --0.46 to 0.38; P=.84); however, there was a trend, though nonsignificant, in Fitbit wear time consistency among females without PPD (r=0.25, 95\% CI --0.02 to 0.49; P=.07). Conclusions: We hypothesize that increased Fitbit wear time among females with PPD may be attributed to hypervigilance, given the common co-occurrence of anxiety symptoms. Future studies should assess the link between PPD, hypervigilance, and wear time patterns. We envision that wear time patterns of a wearable device combined with digital biomarkers such as sleep and physical activity could enhance early PPD detection using machine learning by alerting clinicians to potential concerns and facilitating timely screenings, which may have implications for other mental health disorders. ", doi="10.2196/67585", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67585" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/71563, author="Karaba B{\"a}ckstr{\"o}m, Martin and Girdler, Sonya and Milbourn, Ben and Lex{\'e}n, Annika", title="Needs and Preferences of Swedish Young Adults for a Digital App Promoting Mental Health Literacy, Occupational Balance, and Peer Support: Qualitative Interview Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="23", volume="9", pages="e71563", keywords="emerging adulthood", keywords="design thinking", keywords="mental health promotion", keywords="mental ill-health", keywords="needs assessment", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="AI", abstract="Background: Young adults experience stressors in their transition to adulthood and are at increased risk of mental ill-health. This risk is compounded by young adults' low levels of mental health literacy and limited competencies in implementing strategies promoting mental health and well-being in their daily lives. Previous research suggests that digital mental health apps may be particularly effective in increasing the mental health literacy of young adults. In Sweden, there is a lack of research on young adults' unique perspectives on what constitutes mental health, well-being, and ill-health---perspectives that could inform the coproduction of evidence-based interventions targeting these issues. Objective: The overarching aim of this study was to conduct a needs assessment as part of coproducing a digital mental health app for Swedish young adults. More specifically, the study addressed two research questions: (1) What do Swedish young adults perceive as contributing to the mental health, well-being, and ill-health of themselves and their peers? (2) What are Swedish young adults' preferences and ideas on how a digital mental health app can support their mental health during young adulthood, including their perspectives on the app's usability? Methods: We conducted semistructured interviews with 16 young adults and analyzed the data using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Of the 16 study participants, 9 (56\%) identified as women and 7 (44\%) as men. Their mean age was 23.6 (SD 4.22; range 18-29) years. Furthermore, 56\% (9/16) were pursuing or had obtained a higher education degree, while 44\% (7/16) had completed or were in the process of completing a high school diploma. The interviews and subsequent analysis revealed three main themes: (1) ``To feel that life is worth living''---pathways through pressures and pursuit of mental well-being during young adulthood, (2) ``A personal space for working on one's own mental well-being''---digital companionship with others, and (3) ``Something that is designed for me''---customizing one's digital mental health journey. Conclusions: In line with the preferences of Swedish young adults, the promotion of mental health and well-being through digital technology and eHealth should focus on a customizable app that supports balance in daily life while strengthening mental health competencies. The content should center on fostering and maintaining meaningful relationships and activities, addressing challenges such as negative social media use and stress recovery, and enhancing mental health knowledge and peer support. Future efforts should focus on researching young adults' experiences of the life phase of emerging adulthood and its implications for mental health. In addition, future technical development and research on digital mental health apps should include the perspectives of stakeholders, such as mental health professionals, and involve prototype testing with diverse groups to ensure the app's relevance, user engagement, and effectiveness. ", doi="10.2196/71563", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e71563", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40406829" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66954, author="Ho, S. Shirley and Ou, Mengxue and Huang, Mengxia Nova and Chuah, SF Agnes and Ho, S. Vanessa and Rosenthal, Sonny and Kim, Kyung Hye", title="Public Health Messaging About Dengue on Facebook in Singapore During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Content Analysis", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="22", volume="9", pages="e66954", keywords="dengue", keywords="environment and public health", keywords="social media", keywords="Singapore", keywords="crisis and emergency risk communication", keywords="media", keywords="mosquito-borne", keywords="viruses", keywords="dengue outbreaks", keywords="epidemics", keywords="dengue transmission", abstract="Background: Dengue, a mosquito-borne disease, has been a health challenge in Singapore for decades. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore encountered a serious dengue outbreak and deployed various communication strategies to raise public awareness and mitigate dengue transmission. Objective: Drawing on the Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) framework, this study examines how dengue-related messages communicated on Facebook (Meta) during the COVID-19 pandemic fall into the CERC themes. This study also seeks to understand how these themes differ between dengue outbreak (eg, 2020) and nonoutbreak years (eg, 2021). In addition, we explore how message themes on dengue changed across different CERC phases within the dengue outbreak year. Methods: We conducted a content analysis on 314 Facebook posts published by public health authorities in Singapore between January 1, 2020, and September 30, 2022. We conducted chi-square tests to examine the differences in message themes between the dengue outbreak and nonoutbreak years. We also conducted chi-square tests to examine how these message themes varied across 3 CERC phases during the dengue outbreak year. Results: Our findings suggest that during the dual epidemics of dengue and COVID-19, Singapore's public health communication on dengue largely adhered to CERC principles. Dengue-related messaging, particularly regarding intelligence and requests for contributions, significantly varied between outbreak and nonoutbreak years. In addition, messages on general advisories and vigilance, as well as those on social and common responsibility, significantly differed across the CERC phases during the dengue outbreak year. Conclusions: Singapore's public health authorities flexibly adjusted their messaging strategies on social media platforms in response to the evolving dengue situation during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the high adaptability of the government's health communication amid the dual epidemics. However, several areas for improvement should also be noted for future public health communication to mitigate dengue transmission. ", doi="10.2196/66954", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66954" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70290, author="Traxler, Juliane and Stuhlmann, Z. Caroline F. and da Silva Burger, Neuza and Stierle, Christian and Djamei, Vahid and Darzina, Anna and Rudnik, Marie and Sommer, Rachel", title="Self-Stigma in Adults Living With Chronic Skin Disease: Development of the HautKompass Web-Based Program and Pilot Test of Its Usability, Acceptability, and Feasibility", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="22", volume="9", pages="e70290", keywords="intervention", keywords="psychosocial care", keywords="self-stigmatization", keywords="stigma", keywords="dermatology", keywords="visible difference", keywords="eHealth", abstract="Background: Self-stigma is common among people with chronic skin disease and can substantially impair quality of life and psychosocial well-being. Few interventions targeting skin disease--related self-stigma are available, especially in Germany. Objective: This pilot study aims to develop a web-based self-guided program to reduce self-stigma among people with chronic skin disease, and test its usability, acceptability, and feasibility. Methods: We developed the HautKompass program based on 2 systematic literature reviews and the expertise from psychodermatologists and patients. Its usability, acceptability, and feasibility were tested among adults with psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, alopecia areata, and vitiligo. After completing the program, participants provided feedback on each session and on their overall experience using the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire and study-specific feedback items. The program was considered feasible if the dropout rate was below 40\% and participants spent 45 minutes or less per session. Data were analyzed descriptively. Results: HautKompass is grounded in compassion-focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy and consists of 8 self-guided sessions. Of the 41 persons who provided informed consent and filled in the screening questionnaire, 29 were eligible for participation. A total of 27 participants started the program and 20 completed all sessions and the posttest questionnaire. Results indicated high usability (mean 26.12, SD 6.13; on a scale ranging from 8?32) and acceptability (mean 17.41, SD 3.12; on a scale ranging from 5?20). Users rated the program as helpful, the psychoeducation and exercise instructions as comprehensible, and the extent of the program as adequate. Criticism concerned the length of some sessions, the electronic voice used in exercises, and some of the examples being too ``general'' or ``clich{\'e}.'' Regarding feasibility, the program's extent was deemed adequate, participants spent substantially less time on the individual sessions (mean 16.9, SD 4.4 minutes) than the predefined criterion and few participants dropped out after starting the program (n=7, 26\%), indicating low barriers. Importantly, the majority of users dropped out within the first 2 sessions, possibly due to the slightly longer duration and focus on theory, or due to unmet expectations, highlighting areas for improvement. Conclusions: Overall, HautKompass was found to be a usable, acceptable program with feasible implementation. Limitations of this pilot study include not testing accessibility for people with disabilities and the small, relatively young, and mostly female sample, which limits the generalizability of the findings. The feedback obtained was used to revise the program and the recruitment strategy prior to testing its effectiveness in a randomized controlled trial. If HautKompass is found to be effective in reducing skin disease--related self-stigma, it will be made widely available to improve psychosocial care for people with chronic skin disease and could be adapted for other skin diseases and visible differences in general. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06324695; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06324695 ", doi="10.2196/70290", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70290" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66461, author="Steward, Jessica and Moulds, L. Michelle and Hirsch, R. Colette", title="Co-Designed Online Training Program for Worry Management: The Role of Young People With Lived Experience of Worry in Program Development", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="21", volume="9", pages="e66461", keywords="digital intervention", keywords="mental health", keywords="patient and public involvement", keywords="young people", keywords="adolescent", keywords="experts by experience", keywords="participatory", keywords="anxiety", keywords="development", keywords="design", keywords="user experience", abstract="Background: Many young people report high levels of worry, highlighting the need for interventions that teach strategies to help them shift focus away from worry. To maximize uptake by this population, interventions should be brief and accessible; to maximize dissemination, they should have potential for delivery at scale. We produced a multisession, online training program, Shift Focus, co-designed with young people with lived experience of worry. The online training program was accessed via a mobile app. In this paper, we describe how Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP) members were involved in each stage of the process of developing the Shift Focus online training program, from refining session content through to designing and testing the online training program prototype. Objective: We aimed to engage with young people with lived experience of worry, to help refine, further develop, and tailor a new online training program designed to help shift focus away from worry. Methods: We recruited LEAP members (aged 16?25 y) with lived experience of worry from diverse backgrounds across the United Kingdom. We used a highly iterative participatory design process, such that LEAP members provided input during all 4 phases of program development: refining and further developing session content, piloting sessions, developing user experience design, and testing the online training program prototype. Results: Feedback from LEAP members during each phase of the online platform development informed key decisions regarding the platform content, functionality, and the interface design to ensure it suited our target population. In phase 1, we learned that the platform needed to be simple and aesthetically pleasing, personalized to individual needs and preferences, accessible to all, track progress, and provide individuals with a sense of community with others with similar lived experiences. In phase 2, we learned that the platform also needed to provide further guidance on how to apply the Shift Focus techniques to daily life, using personalized reminder settings. In phase 3, we additionally learned that ease of navigation and interactivity were key to maintaining user engagement. The importance of program tracking was reiterated, as well as the need for accessibility settings to support all learning styles. In phase 4, we identified that technical problems with the online platform were a barrier to engagement. The inclusion of future iterations (eg, reward systems) to help promote engagement was suggested by LEAP members in multiple phases. Conclusions: LEAP members brought unique expertise and made key contributions to the development of the Shift Focus online training program and were highly valued members of the team. A highly iterative participatory design process enabled continuous feedback from LEAP members throughout, ensuring that their input was meaningful and that their key messages and ideas were incorporated into the final program. ", doi="10.2196/66461", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66461" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65162, author="Ju, HyoRim and Lee, HyeWon and Choi, Juyoung and Kang, EunKyo", title="The Necessity of Regulating Drinking Scenes on Social Media Platforms Focusing on YouTube Sulbang Videos: Public Opinion From Surveys and YouTube Content Analysis", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="21", volume="9", pages="e65162", keywords="alcohol", keywords="drinking scenes", keywords="social media", keywords="YouTube", keywords="sulbang", keywords="drinking scenes of social medial", keywords="public health", keywords="social media platforms", keywords="drinking regulate", keywords="alcohol policy", abstract="Background: Alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for diseases and social burdens worldwide. Despite this, depictions of alcohol use continue to rise across various social media platforms, increasing concerns about their potential impact, particularly on adolescents. While some guidelines exist to regulate alcohol portrayals in media, they remain largely advisory and lack legal enforcement. As alcohol-related content becomes more widespread on social media, the need for stronger regulatory measures is growing. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the content of sulbang (broadcasts featuring alcohol consumption) on YouTube and to assess public opinions regarding the regulation of alcohol-related broadcasts on social media platforms such as YouTube. Methods: To evaluate public attitudes toward appropriate regulations on alcohol depictions in web-based media, a survey was conducted with 1500 adults (aged 20?74 years) residing in South Korea. Participants were recruited through stratified multistage sampling, with a 21.8\% (n=1500) response rate from 6880 invitations. The survey included Likert-scale and rank-ordered questions, with reliability assessed using Cronbach $\alpha$. Additionally, a content analysis of 318 YouTube (sulbang) videos was conducted based on the Korean government's media alcohol scene guidelines. Two trained coders independently analyzed the videos, achieving high intercoder reliability (Cohen $\kappa$=0.92). Results: This study found that exposure to sulbang content was significantly higher among individuals with higher education levels (n=33, 26.2\% graduate degree holders), lower income groups (P<.001), and women. Younger individuals and heavy drinkers were also more likely to engage with such content, with heavy drinkers showing a significantly higher likelihood (P<.001). Regarding public opinion, 83.1\% (n=1247) of respondents supported some form of regulation on sulbang content. However, heavy drinkers were less inclined to agree (coefficient: ?0.3652; P<.001). Age was positively associated with stronger support for regulation (coefficient: 0.21984; P<.001), while women were significantly more likely than men to advocate for stricter restrictions (coefficient: 0.37827; P<.001). Exposure frequency also had the strongest correlation with support for regulation (coefficient: 1.0278; P<.001). The analysis of 318 YouTube videos revealed an average Like ratio of 97.9\% (range: 32.7?100.0), indicating predominantly positive viewer responses, with a median Video Power Index of 939.6 (range: 10.4-84,821.7). Content analysis based on the Media Drinking Scene Guidelines showed that 89.0\% (n=283) of the videos glorified drinking, often portraying alcohol as a stress reliever or a source of recovery. Additionally, 92.8\% (n=295) of the videos depicted binge drinking or drunkenness, and 27.7\% (n=88) of the videos featured celebrities or notable figures consuming alcohol. Furthermore, 42.8\% (n=136) of the videos presented distorted drinking norms, such as glorifying high tolerance or linking alcohol to sexual advances. In contrast, only 0.6\% (n=2) of the videos were age-restricted, and 31.1\% (n=99) included any warning message. Conclusions: Given the potential influence of alcohol-related content on drinking perceptions and behaviors, regulatory measures should be explored to mitigate possible risks. Strengthening content guidelines and increasing awareness could help address concerns about alcohol-related social media exposure. ", doi="10.2196/65162", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65162" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59757, author="Reinders, Patrick and Augustin, Matthias and Otten, Marina", title="Understanding Dermatologists' Acceptance of Digital Health Interventions: Cross-Sectional Survey and Cluster Analysis", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="May", day="21", volume="12", pages="e59757", keywords="dermatology", keywords="cross-sectional survey", keywords="cluster analysis", keywords="acceptability", keywords="eHealth", keywords="Germany", keywords="attitude", keywords="dermatologist", keywords="digital health intervention", keywords="teledermatology", abstract="Background: Digital health interventions (DHIs) have the potential to enhance dermatological care by improving quality, patient empowerment, and efficiency. However, adoption remains limited, particularly in Germany. Objective: This study explores German dermatologists' attitudes toward DHIs, clustering them by acceptance levels and analyzing differences in sociodemographics and current and future DHI use. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey, randomly inviting 1000 dermatologists in Germany to participate. The questionnaire consisted of Likert scale items rating the acceptability of DHIs from 1 to 5. Items on the current and future use of DHIs were also included. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify factors and reduce data as input for a 2-step clustering algorithm. Results: The survey with 170 dermatologists (mean age 50.8, SD 10.3 y; 74/167, 55.7\% female) identified four factors through the exploratory factor analysis: (1) ``Positive Expectancies and Acceptability of DHIs,'' (2) ``Dermatologists' Digital Competencies,'' (3) ``Negative Expectancies and Barriers,'' and (4) ``Dermatologists' Perspectives on Patients' Acceptability and Competencies.'' The analysis identified three distinct clusters: (1) Indecisives (n=69)---moderate intentions to use DHIs and moderate negative expectations toward them; (2) Adopters (n=60)---high intentions to use DHIs and high digital competencies; and (3) Rejectors (n=26)---low intentions to use DHIs and low digital competencies. Adopters were significantly younger, more often based in urban centers, and exhibited the highest adoption rates of DHIs compared to the other clusters. Across all clusters, inadequate reimbursement and perceived structural barriers were cited as significant challenges to DHI adoption. Still, only one-third of the Adopters used DHIs including teledermatology or artificial intelligence. Conclusions: Dermatologists in Germany exhibited varied levels of acceptance and readiness for DHIs, with demographic and structural factors influencing adoption. Addressing barriers such as reimbursement and investing in digital literacy could promote wider use, potentially reducing health inequalities by improving access to digital health care. ", doi="10.2196/59757", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e59757" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63813, author="Hayotte, Meggy and Kreiner, Jonas and Hollaus, Bernhard", title="Parents', Teachers', and Sledders' Acceptability of a Virtual Reality Game for Sledding Safety Education: Cross-Sectional Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="21", volume="9", pages="e63813", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="VR", keywords="sledding", keywords="safety education", keywords="Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2", keywords="UTAUT2", keywords="technology acceptability", keywords="cross sectional study", abstract="Background: Sledding is a common recreational activity in the Alpine region, practiced by families, friends, and at school, but it is rarely considered to cause serious injuries. Current actions to promote safe sledding are limited to announcements at the start of dedicated tracks or to didactic sheets presented by teachers in schools. However, these actions are currently limited and do not allow the development of piloting technique skills. Virtual reality has the potential to develop piloting skills, although the development of a virtual reality for sledding safety education needs to be guided by its acceptability. Objective: The purpose of this study was to (1) examine the acceptability of the virtual reality game for sledding safety education from the perspective of different potential user profiles (ie, parents, teachers, and sledders) based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 enriched by the health locus of control (HLC), and (2) understand participants' preferences and needs in terms of features to be integrated to the technology. Methods: Three profiles of participants (ie, parents, teachers, or sledders) were recruited through email diffusion from elementary schools, university, and ski resort announcements (Tyrol, Austria). They completed a series of questionnaires measuring: (1) demographic and general information, (2) acceptability of virtual reality sledding game for safety education (named VRodel), (3) perception of HLC, and (4) preferences and needs for VRodel. Results: A total of 122 participants (15 teachers, 43 parents or legal guardians, and 64 sledders) completed the survey. Findings reveal that the constructs of hedonic motivation ($\beta$=.43, P<.001), price sensitivity ($\beta$=.28, P<.001), and habit ($\beta$=.36, P<.001) explained 65\% of the variance in behavioral intention to use VRodel. Two acceptability clusters were identified (low and high), but no differences between the acceptability clusters emerged based on age, status, gender, or previous virtual reality use. Internal HLC was positively correlated with all dimensions of acceptability except social influence and facilitating conditions. Some correlations between acceptability constructs were also shown with powerful others' HLC. Participants highlighted the need to include realistic visual details and realistic interactions in the virtual environment for development. Conclusions: The acceptability of a virtual reality game for sledding safety education was quite high, and relationships with HLC were shown in the expected directions. Based on participants' preferences, developers are advised to promote immersion in the game. ", doi="10.2196/63813", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63813" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66073, author="Weber, Ashley and Bakas, Tamilyn and Oudat, Qutaibah and Parikh, A. Nehal and Lambert, Joshua and Tubbs-Cooley, L. Heather and Rice, Jared and Voos, Kristin and Rota, Matthew and Kaplan, C. Heather", title="An Internet-Based and Mobile Family Management Intervention for Mothers of Very Preterm Infants Hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (the Preemie Progress Program): Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="21", volume="9", pages="e66073", keywords="neonatal intensive care units", keywords="preterm infant", keywords="family nursing", keywords="parents", keywords="self-management", keywords="family integrated care", abstract="Background: Flexible approaches to parenting training interventions in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), including family integrated care (FICare) models, are urgently needed across the globe. Many FICare trials inadvertently exclude parents with low resources who cannot commit to daily infant care (eg, 4-8 hours/day). Preemie Progress (PP) is a fully automated, video-based training program that allows parents to choose when and where they learn, without requiring parent bedside presence. Objective: This study aims to examine the feasibility of recruitment, retention, fidelity, and changes in outcomes during a pilot randomized controlled trial of PP, a video-based intervention aimed at training mothers of very preterm infants in evidence-based family management skills in the NICU. Methods: Mothers of infants born between 25 weeks and 0 days to 31 weeks and 6 days of gestation were enrolled in an NICU in the Midwestern United States. Electronic surveys were sent to collect maternal outcomes (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System [PROMIS] 8a depression and anxiety scales) at baseline (T1), 14 days (T2) and 28 days (T3) after T1, and 30 days after NICU discharge (T4). Infant electronic health records were extracted to collect infant (ie, weight gain velocity at 36 weeks and receipt of mother's milk) and health care outcomes (ie, NICU length of stay as well as readmissions and emergency department visits within 30 days of discharge). Results: Of 123 eligible mothers, 64 (52\%) were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 arms (PP: n=33, 52\%; attention control [AC]: n=31, 48\%). Loss to follow-up was 30\% (10/33) in the PP arm and 13\% (4/31) in the AC arm. PP mothers watched a mean 17.8 (SD 18.9) of 49 videos. PP retention was linked to higher fidelity. PP mothers showed trends toward greater reductions in anxiety 30 days after discharge (mean ?7.54, SD 1.93; 95\% CI ?11.32 to ?3.76) compared to AC mothers (mean ?4.67, SD 1.59; 95\% CI ?7.80 to ?1.55). PP infants trended toward greater receipt of exclusively mother's milk 28 days after baseline (PP: 14/26, 54\%; AC: 10/28, 36\%) and decreased NICU stay (PP: 57.2 days; AC: 68.3 days) but higher readmissions (PP: 4/33, 12\%; AC: 2/31, 6\%). Conclusions: We were able to recruit a diverse sample of mothers from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds, including mothers experiencing barriers to bedside presence. Recruitment goals were met. PP showed promising trends in improving maternal, infant, and health care outcomes. Additional studies are needed to optimize PP and study procedures to improve retention and fidelity. PP has the potential to support parent training outside of traditional FICare models or serve as a complement to structure the parent education pillar of adapted FICare models. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04638127; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04638127 ", doi="10.2196/66073", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66073" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/57866, author="Mascret, Nicolas and Delbes, Lisa and Goulon, C{\'e}dric and Montagne, Gilles", title="Testing an Innovative Gait Training Program in Immersive Virtual Reality for Healthy Older Adults: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="May", day="21", volume="14", pages="e57866", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="VR", keywords="exercise", keywords="locomotion", keywords="adaptive behavior", keywords="aging", keywords="accident prevention", keywords="falls", abstract="Background: Impaired gait adaptability is one of the major causes of falls among older adults owing to inappropriate gait adjustments in cluttered environments. Training programs designed to improve gait adaptability behavior in a systemic approach may prevent falls in older adults. Recently, virtual reality (VR) technology has been prominent as a relevant gait training tool because of its training implementation potential. Objective: This study was designed to compare the effectiveness of a VR-based gait training program (VR group) for improving gait adaptability behavior and, thus, reducing the risk of falls relative to a conventional training program such as Nordic walking (NW; NW group). We hypothesized that the VR-based gait training program will lead to greater gait adaptability improvements. Methods: We will be conducting a randomized controlled trial with pretests, posttests, retention tests, and follow-up. In total, 40 healthy independent-living community dwellers (aged between 65 and 80 years) will be allocated, after a general medical examination, to the VR or the NW group for a training program of 6 weeks. Primary outcomes related to gait adaptability capacities (ie, analysis of adjustments made in different locomotor tasks) and acceptance of the VR device (ie, analysis of acceptance) will be assessed before and after the intervention and 1 month after the completion of the training program (retention). A follow-up will be done during the 12 months after the completion of the gait training program. Results: Data collection will begin in September 2025, and the first results are expected in December 2025. Conclusions: The findings of this study may demonstrate the relative relevance of a gait training program in VR versus a conventional one for improving gait adaptability behavior in healthy older adults and, thus, prevent the chances of a fall. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/57866 ", doi="10.2196/57866", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e57866", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40397488" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64500, author="Lecumberri, M{\'o}nica and Mandlate, D{\'o}rcia and Cote, Vasco and Mart{\'i}n-Baranera, Montserrat and Moser, L. Carlos", title="Effectiveness of the Better Operative Software Outcomes Tool for Monitoring Cataract Surgery Outcomes in Inhambane Province, Mozambique: Prospective Pilot Diagnostic Accuracy Study", journal="JMIR Mhealth Uhealth", year="2025", month="May", day="21", volume="13", pages="e64500", keywords="cataract extraction", keywords="outcome assessment", keywords="health care", keywords="developing countries", keywords="visual acuity", keywords="software", abstract="Background: Cataract is the world's leading cause of avoidable blindness. High-quality cataract surgery is a cost-effective procedure to restore vision. In low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), there are high rates of poor outcomes after surgery and inadequate follow-up, which makes it difficult to effectively monitor surgical outcomes. To address this issue, the Better Operative Outcomes Software Tool (BOOST Cataract app) assesses the final outcome on the first postoperative day and records the reasons for poor outcomes at 6 weeks postoperatively, offering specific advice to improve outcomes. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the real-world utility of the BOOST Cataract app for monitoring cataract surgical outcomes in Inhambane Province (Mozambique) and to analyze the data collected by the app during a surgical campaign conducted therein. Methods: This prospective study of diagnostic accuracy included patients older than 50 years who underwent manual small-incision cataract surgery. The BOOST Cataract app was used to collect data on visual acuity (VA) on the first postoperative day and to assess surgical outcomes. The sensitivity and specificity (with their 95\% CIs) and area under the curve of the BOOST Cataract app (index test) were calculated to identify suboptimal outcomes (moderate and poor) compared with outcomes 6 weeks after surgery (reference standard). The causes of poor outcomes after 6 weeks were recorded and evaluated using the app. Results: A total of 141 patients who underwent surgery during a cataract campaign in Inhambane Province (Mozambique) between April 2022 and May 2022 were included in the study. The mean age was 70 (SD 10.2) years, and 48.2\% (68/141) of the participants were women. Of the 141 patients, 8 (5.7\%) did not complete the study. The BOOST Cataract app had a sensitivity of 94.44\% and a specificity of 59\% for detecting suboptimal outcomes. The area under the curve was 0.825. The campaign outcomes were as follows: good (VA ?6/18) in 45.9\% (61/133) of cases, moderate (VA <6/18 to ?6/60) in 33.8\% (45/133), and poor (VA<6/60) in 20.3\% (27/133) of cases. The main cause of a poor outcome was surgical complication, while refractive error was the main cause of a moderate outcome. Conclusions: The BOOST Cataract app is a valuable tool for assessing suboptimal cataract surgery outcomes without waiting for the completion of postoperative treatment in settings where postoperative follow-up is incomplete. In resource-limited eye care systems, the BOOST Cataract app provides an opportunity to assess outcomes and analyze results to develop specific strategies to improve quality at a local level. ", doi="10.2196/64500", url="https://mhealth.jmir.org/2025/1/e64500", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40397505" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63857, author="Weuthen, A. Felix and Otte, Nelly and Krabbe, Hanif and Kraus, Thomas and Krabbe, Julia", title="Comparison of ChatGPT and Internet Research for Clinical Research and Decision-Making in Occupational Medicine: Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="20", volume="9", pages="e63857", keywords="occupational diseases", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="internet research", keywords="medicine", keywords="occupational medicine", keywords="ChatGPT", keywords="AI", keywords="decision-making", keywords="algorithms", keywords="algorithm", keywords="large language models", keywords="LLMs", keywords="physicians", keywords="medical students", keywords="occupational lung diseases", keywords="occupational lung disease", abstract="Background: Artificial intelligence is becoming a part of daily life and the medical field. Generative artificial intelligence models, such as GPT-4 and ChatGPT, are experiencing a surge in popularity due to their enhanced performance and reliability. However, the application of these models in specialized domains, such as occupational medicine, remains largely unexplored. Objective: This study aims to assess the potential suitability of a generative large language model, such as ChatGPT, as a support tool for medical research and even clinical decisions in occupational medicine in Germany. Methods: In this randomized controlled study, the usability of ChatGPT for medical research and clinical decision-making was investigated using a web application developed for this purpose. Eligibility criteria were being a physician or medical student. Participants (N=56) were asked to work on 3 cases of occupational lung diseases and answer case-related questions. They were allocated via coin weighted for proportions of physicians in each group into 2 groups. One group researched the cases using an integrated chat application similar to ChatGPT based on the latest GPT-4-Turbo model, while the other used their usual research methods, such as Google, Amboss, or DocCheck. The primary outcome was case performance based on correct answers, while secondary outcomes included changes in specific question accuracy and self-assessed occupational medicine expertise before and after case processing. Group assignment was not traditionally blinded, as the chat window indicated membership; participants only knew the study examined web-based research, not group specifics. Results: Participants of the ChatGPT group (n=27) showed better performance in specific research, for example, for potentially hazardous substances or activities (eg, case 1: ChatGPT group 2.5 hazardous substances that cause pleural changes versus 1.8 in a group with own research; P=.01; Cohen r=--0.38), and led to an increase in self-assessment with regard to specialist knowledge (from 3.9 to 3.4 in the ChatGPT group vs from 3.5 to 3.4 in the own research group; German school grades between 1=very good and 6=unsatisfactory; P=.047). However, clinical decisions, for example, whether an occupational disease report should be filed, were more often made correctly as a result of the participant's own research (n=29; eg, case 1: Should an occupational disease report be filed? Yes for 7 participants in the ChatGPT group vs 14 in their own research group; P=.007; odds ratio 6.00, 95\% CI 1.54?23.36). Conclusions: ChatGPT can be a useful tool for targeted medical research, even for rather specific questions in occupational medicine regarding occupational diseases. However, clinical decisions should currently only be supported and not made by the large language model. Future systems should be critically assessed, even if the initial results are promising. Trial Registration: German Clinical Trials Registry DRKS00036492; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00036492/entails ", doi="10.2196/63857", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63857" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67792, author="Berge, A. Martin and Paraschiv-Ionescu, Anisoara and Kirk, Cameron and K{\"u}derle, Arne and Mic{\'o}-Amigo, Encarna and Becker, Clemens and Cereatti, Andrea and Del Din, Silvia and Engdal, Monika and Garcia-Aymerich, Judith and Gr{\o}nvik, B. Karoline and Hansen, Clint and Hausdorff, M. Jeffrey and Helbostad, L. Jorunn and Jansen, Carl-Philipp and Johnsen, Gunnar Lars and Klenk, Jochen and Koch, Sarah and Maetzler, Walter and Megaritis, Dimitrios and M{\"u}ller, Arne and Rochester, Lynn and Schwickert, Lars and Taraldsen, Kristin and Vereijken, Beatrix", title="Evaluating the Accuracy and Reliability of Real-World Digital Mobility Outcomes in Older Adults After Hip Fracture: Cross-Sectional Observational Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="20", volume="9", pages="e67792", keywords="gait", keywords="free living", keywords="digital mobility assessment", keywords="wearable device", keywords="walking speed", keywords="distance", keywords="cadence", keywords="active aging", abstract="Background: Algorithms estimating real-world digital mobility outcomes (DMOs) are increasingly validated in healthy adults and various disease cohorts. However, their accuracy and reliability in older adults after hip fracture, who often walk slowly for short durations, is underexplored. Objective: This study examined DMO accuracy and reliability in a hip fracture cohort considering walking bout (WB) duration, physical function, days since surgery, and walking aid use. Methods: In total, 19 community-dwelling participants were real-world monitored for 2.5 hours using a lower back wearable device and a reference system combining inertial modules, distance sensors, and pressure insoles. A total of 6 DMO estimates from 164 WBs from 58\% (11/19) of the participants (aged 71-90 years; assessed 32-390 days after surgery; Short Physical Performance Battery [SPPB] scores of 3-12; gait speed range 0.39-1.34 m/s) were assessed against the reference system at the WB and participant level. We stratified by WB duration (all WBs, WBs of >10 seconds, WBs of 10-30 seconds, and WBs of >30 seconds) and lower versus higher SPPB scores and observed whether days since surgery and walking aid use affected DMO accuracy and reliability. Results: Across WBs, walking speed and distance ranged from 0.25 to 1.29 m/s and from 1.7 to 436.5 m, respectively. Estimation of walking speed, cadence, stride duration, number of steps, and distance stratified by WB duration showed intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranging from 0.50 to 0.99 and mean relative errors (MREs) from --6.9\% to 12.8\%. Stride length estimation showed poor reliability, with ICCs ranging from 0.30 to 0.49 and MREs from 6.1\% to 13.2\%. Walking speed and distance ICCs in the higher--SPPB score group ranged from 0.85 to 0.99, and MREs ranged from --10.1\% to --1.7\%. In the lower--SPPB score group, walking speed and distance ICCs ranged from 0.17 to 0.99, and MREs ranged from 13.5\% to 32.6\%. There was no discernible effect of time since surgery or walking aid use. Conclusions: In total, 5 accurate and reliable real-world DMOs were identified in older adults after hip fracture: walking speed, cadence, stride duration, number of steps, and distance. Accuracy and reliability of most DMOs improved when excluding WBs of <10 seconds and were higher for WBs of >30 seconds than for WBs of 10 to 30 seconds and for participants with higher physical function. DMOs capture daily gait as early as 1 month after surgery also in people using walking aids. However, as most WBs in this cohort were short, there was a trade-off between improving accuracy and reliability by excluding short WBs and losing a substantial amount of data. These results have important implications for establishing the clinical validity of DMOs and evaluating the effects of interventions on daily-life gait, thereby facilitating the design of optimal care pathways. ", doi="10.2196/67792", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67792" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70104, author="Ogland-Hand, Callie and Schulte, Jillian and Yamoah, Owusua and Poppe, Kathryn and Ciesielski, H. Timothy and Gee, Regan and Zubieta, Claudia Ana and Freedman, A. Darcy", title="Leveraging Technology to Engage Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Consumers With Children at Farmers Markets: Qualitative Community-Engaged Approach to App Development", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="16", volume="9", pages="e70104", keywords="farmers market", keywords="fruit and vegetable consumption", keywords="nutrition incentive", keywords="SNAP", keywords="community-engaged research", keywords="mobile app", keywords="app development", abstract="Background: Fruit and vegetable consumption is lower than national trends among people receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to economic and physical access barriers. Monetary nutrition incentive programs at farmers markets aim to reduce these barriers to improve diet quality among SNAP consumers. We leveraged community-engaged methods to collaboratively design a mobile app to increase the use of both nutrition incentive programs and farmers markets among SNAP households with children. This population represents about 35\% of all SNAP households providing the dual benefit of improving diet for both adults and children. Objective: In this paper, we share the iterative, community-engaged development process used to design a technology intervention that encourages the integration of farmers markets into the food shopping routines of SNAP consumers with children. Methods: Our qualitative community-engaged approach was informed by human-centered design, following the inspiration and ideation phases of this framework. In the ``inspiration'' phase, we worked with community nutrition experts to define both the goal of and target audience for the app (ie, SNAP households with children). In the subsequent ``ideation'' phase, we completed 3 stages of data collection. We developed 2 interface prototypes and received feedback from end users on design and usability preferences before selecting a baseline model. Additional feedback gathered from qualitative interviews with 20 SNAP consumers with children was incorporated into the app's version 1 (V1) development. We then shared V1 with SNAP consumers, children, and farmers market managers to test the app's functionality, design, and utility. Results: In the ``inspiration'' phase, the community nutrition partners identified SNAP consumers with children younger than 18 years as the target population for the app. In the ``ideation'' phase, we successfully created V1 through 3 stages of a qualitative, community-engaged process. First, about 75\% (n=3) of SNAP consumers and all farmers market managers selected a grocery shopping design option for the layout of the app. Second, we integrated features identified by SNAP consumers with children into the app design, such as market information (ie, location with GPS address links, hours, website), likely available market inventory, market events, and grocery shopping checklists. Finally, we obtained recommendations for future versions of the app, including real-time changes in market hours, additional notification options, and grocery list personalization during a demonstration of V1. Both SNAP consumers and farmers market managers expressed interest in the app's launch and utility. Conclusions: It is feasible for community nutrition researchers to successfully design a community-engaged mobile app with the assistance of software developers. The community-engaged approach was key to us integrating potential end users' preferences in the design of V1. Future work will assess the app's impact on low-income families' use of local farmers markets and nutrition incentive programs, as well as fruit and vegetable consumption. ", doi="10.2196/70104", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70104" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67267, author="Chau, Hing Pui and Cheung, Ting Denise Shuk and Kwok, Yan Jojo Yan and Chan, Chi Wai and Yu, Fung Doris Sau", title="Online Group--Based Dual-Task Training to Improve Cognitive Function of Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Randomized Controlled Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Aging", year="2025", month="May", day="16", volume="8", pages="e67267", keywords="cognitive training", keywords="dual-task", keywords="co-design", keywords="online", keywords="older adults", keywords="Hong Kong", abstract="Background: Cognitive training for older adults is crucial before cognitive impairment emerges. During periods of social distancing like the COVID-19 pandemic, cognitive stimuli are lacking. Online dual-task training is proposed as a solution to address these needs. Objective: We aimed to explore the feasibility, acceptance, and potential effects of online group-based dual-task training as an intervention for enhancing cognitive function among community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A randomized controlled feasibility study was conducted with 76 participants in Hong Kong, randomly assigned to the intervention and attention control groups in a ratio of 2:1 (n=50, 66\% and n=26, 34\%, respectively). The intervention group underwent 60-minute online dual-task training sessions twice a week for 12 weeks, incorporating cognitive components (upper limb and finger movement, arithmetic operation, and verbal fluency) and physical components (chair-based exercises) developed through a co-design approach. The attention control group received online health talks. Outcomes related to feasibility and acceptance included class attendance and self-reported satisfaction. Main outcomes related to potential effects included the Memory Inventory in Chinese and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment 5 Minutes (Hong Kong Version) at baseline, 6 weeks (midintervention), 12 weeks (postintervention) and 18 weeks (follow-up). Descriptive statistics and linear mixed effects models were used. Effect size was described with Cohen d. Qualitative feedback was collected from 12 informants and analyzed by thematic analysis. Results: About 72\% (36/50) of the participants in the intervention group and 62\% (16/26) in the control group attended over 75\% of the classes. In total, 44 (88\%) participants from the intervention group provided acceptance feedback; 82\% (36/44) were satisfied and 84\% (37/44) would recommend the training to others. Improvement in the Memory Inventory in Chinese score in the intervention group was observed at midintervention, postintervention, and follow-up, with a medium-to-large effect size (d=0.65, 0.43 and 0.85, respectively). Adjusting for baseline values, the between-group differences in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment 5 Minutes (Hong Kong Version) score attained a small-to-medium effect size at midintervention (d=0.34) and postintervention (d=0.23). Qualitative feedback highlighted the timesaving and convenient aspects of online dual-task training, with participants finding the sessions challenging and enjoyable, and reporting benefits across cognitive, physical, and psychosocial domains. However, a preference for traditional in-person training was noted among the older adults despite the advantages of online training. Conclusions: Online dual-task training is a feasible intervention accepted by the older adults, with potential benefits in cognitive abilities. Online training may complement in-person sessions. Further investigation in a full-scale randomized controlled trial is warranted to comprehensively explore its effects and address areas for improvement. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05573646; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05573646 ", doi="10.2196/67267", url="https://aging.jmir.org/2025/1/e67267" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63471, author="Leslie-Miller, J. Calissa and Goltz, R. Shellen and Barrios, L. Pamela and Cushing, C. Christopher and Badshah, Teena and Ungaro, T. Corey and Qu, Shankang and Berezhnaya, Yulia and Brisbois, D. Tristin", title="Evaluating the Acceptability and Utility of a Personalized Wellness App (Aspire2B) Using AI-Enabled Digital Biomarkers: Engagement Enhancement Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="14", volume="9", pages="e63471", keywords="wellness application", keywords="development protocol", keywords="AI-enabled digital biomarkers", keywords="acceptability", keywords="nutrition", keywords="sleep", keywords="fitness", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: There is significant global interest in promoting wellness, with digital solutions like mobile health apps being broadly downloaded; yet, there is a challenge in maintaining engagement for long-term behavior change. Developing a widely accepted mobile wellness app is imperative for advancing personalized wellness interventions. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the Aspire2B wellness app (powered by Salus Optima), designed to exceed industry standards for participant engagement by incorporating evidence-based behavior change strategies and to assess its acceptability (eg, liking the face scan) and utility (eg, willing to use the face scan technology for other health insights) as a digital health solution. Methods: Participants aged 18-65 years, who were smartphone and fitness tracker users, were recruited in the United States during March-May 2022. Participants received US \$5 compensation for downloading the app, with no further incentive for usage. Following completion of onboarding (ie, survey questions about lifestyle behaviors), participants were placed in either a nutrition, sleep, or fitness 4-week challenge. During the challenge, participants used various app features at their own will, such as a facial scan for wellness insights (eg, heart rate and biological age), recipes, and workout videos. These interactions with the app were cumulatively evaluated as engagement metrics. Participants were also asked to answer offboarding questions to evaluate any changes to lifestyle behaviors and experience using the app features (eg, acceptability of face scan experience). Results: Out of the 398 people who created an account, 85.9\% (342/398) completed onboarding and a face scan. Following this, 74.9\% (298/398) of users completed additional survey questions about current wellness behaviors. Notably, interaction with the app was relatively stable from week 2 to 4 (173/398, 43.5\%), outperforming industry standards by roughly 3{\texttimes}. In addition, on average, participants completed 2.1?2.7 face scans per week, with approximately 7\% (24/342) of participants maintaining regular use of face scan technology for 4 weeks. In users who completed offboarding questions, 88.8\% (111/125) found Aspire2B credible, 64.8\% (81/125) liked the face scan experience, 7.2\% (9/125) disliked the face scan experience, and 83.2\% (104/125) said they would use face scan technology for other insights into their health. Conclusions: These findings highlight strong initial engagement with Aspire2B, followed by significant sustained user engagement over a 4-week period. Furthermore, users indicated high levels of credibility and willingness to use face scan technology for wellness insights. These findings collectively demonstrate the capability of a personalized wellness app using AI-enabled digital biomarkers and evidence-supported behavior change techniques to yield positive user perception and provide long-term engagement. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06191822; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06191822 ", doi="10.2196/63471", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63471" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/56282, author="Trieu, Phillip and Fetzer, Dominique and McLeod, Briana and Schweickert, Kathryn and Gutstein, Lauren and Egleston, Brian and Domchek, Susan and Fleisher, Linda and Wagner, Lynne and Wen, Kuang-Yi and Cacioppo, Cara and Ebrahimzadeh, E. Jessica and Falcone, Dana and Langer, Claire and Wood, Elisabeth and Karpink, Kelsey and Posen, Shelby and Selmani, Enida and Bradbury, R. Angela", title="Developing the MyCancerGene Digital Health Portal to Improve Patients' Understanding of Germline Cancer Genetic Test Results: Development, User, and Usability Testing Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="14", volume="9", pages="e56282", keywords="genetic health portal", keywords="digital intervention development", keywords="health portal", keywords="usability", keywords="digital health", keywords="germline cancer", keywords="multigene panels", keywords="clinical practice", keywords="likelihood", keywords="effectiveness", keywords="medical history", keywords="genetic medicine", keywords="risk information", keywords="digital tool", keywords="intervention", keywords="longitudinal care", keywords="patient-centered content", keywords="electronic information", abstract="Background: The use of multigene panels has significantly increased the likelihood that genetic testing will leave patients with uncertainties regarding test interpretation, implications, and recommendations, which will change over time. Effective longitudinal care models are needed to provide patients with updated information and to obtain patient and family history updates. Objective: To bridge this gap, we aimed to develop a patient- and genetic provider--informed digital genetic health portal (GHP), MyCancerGene, to improve longitudinal patient understanding of and responses to genetic testing. Methods: We used a 5-step process to develop MyCancerGene. To better understand their interest in and willingness to use a digital GHP, we surveyed 307 patients who completed genetic testing (step 1). We completed qualitative interviews with 10 patients and a focus group with 17 genetic providers to inform the content and function of MyCancerGene (step 2). Next, we developed initial intervention content (step 3) and completed user testing of intervention content with 25 providers and 28 patients (step 4). After developing the prototype intervention, we completed usability testing with 8 patients for their feedback on the final content, functions, and ease of use (step 5). Results: In surveys conducted in step 1, 90\% of patients with positive results reported interest in a digital GHP, and over 75\% of participants with variants of uncertain significance or uninformative negative results reported similar interest. The most frequently reported advantages among patients were increasing accessibility, convenience, and efficiency (103/224, 46\%); keeping genetic information organized (54/224, 24.1\%); and increasing or maintaining patient understanding of the information (38/224, 17\%). In qualitative interviews (step 2), both patients and genetic providers endorsed the benefit of the tool for updating personal and family history and for providers to share new risk information, test interpretation, or other medical changes. Patient and provider input informed eight key components of the tool: (1) Landing Page, (2) Summary of Care page, (3) My Genetic Test Results page, (4) My Family History page, (5) Provide an Update page, (6) Review an Update page, (7) Resources page, and (8) the Screenings Tracker. They also recommended key functions, including the ability to download and print materials and the inclusion of reminders and engagement functions. Potential challenges identified by patients included privacy and security concerns (67/206, 32.5\%) and the potential for electronic information to generate distress (20/206, 9.7\%). While patients were comfortable with updates (ie, even variant reclassification upgrades or clinically significant results), 44\% (11/25) of genetic providers were uncomfortable sharing variant reclassification upgrades through MyCancerGene. Conclusions: MyCancerGene, a patient-centered digital GHP, was developed with extensive patient and genetic provider feedback and designed to enhance longitudinal patient understanding of and affective and behavioral responses to genetic testing, particularly in the era of evolving evidence and risk information. ", doi="10.2196/56282", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e56282" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64477, author="Budge, Lynne Stephanie and Tebbe, Aaron Elliot and Lee, Joonwoo and Dom{\'i}nguez Jr, Sergio and Matsuno, Em and Lindley, Louis", title="The Healing Through Ongoing Psychological Empowerment Telehealth Intervention With Two Spirit, Transgender, and Nonbinary Clients of Color in the United States: Open Clinical Trial Feasibility and Implementation Analysis", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="12", volume="9", pages="e64477", keywords="Black, Indigenous, people of color", keywords="transgender", keywords="nonbinary", keywords="radical healing", keywords="internalized transnegativity", keywords="open clinical trial", keywords="psychotherapeutic", keywords="lack of competence", keywords="cultural", keywords="humility", keywords="psychotherapy", keywords="therapist", keywords="HOPE", keywords="Healing Through Ongoing Psychological Empowerment", keywords="gender identity", keywords="intervention", keywords="content analysis", keywords="treatment", keywords="medication", keywords="mental health", abstract="Background: There is a notable lack of psychotherapeutic services tailored to the needs of Two Spirit, transgender, and nonbinary (2STNB) people of color; research indicates that 2STNB clients who are people of color report a lack of competence and cultural humility on the part of their therapists. Objective: The purpose of this study was to report the feasibility and acceptability of the Healing Through Ongoing Psychological Empowerment (HOPE) teletherapy intervention using deductive content analysis. Methods: We used an open clinical trial design (testing one intervention without a comparison group) to test the feasibility and acceptability of the HOPE intervention. At baseline, 51 clients were enrolled in the open clinical trial, with 49 2STNB clients who are people of color starting and completing the HOPE intervention. Clients were recruited primarily from social media and therapist waitlists. Clients completed up to 15 free face-to-face telehealth psychotherapy sessions that were provided by nine 2STNB therapists who are people of color. Feasibility and acceptability interviews were conducted prior to the intervention, immediately following the intervention, and at 6 months after completing the intervention. Results: The HOPE intervention demonstrated high feasibility and acceptability, specifically regarding data collection, psychometric adequacy, interventionist recruitment or training or retention, delivery of the intervention, acceptability of the intervention to clients, and client engagement with the intervention. Conclusions: These findings propose HOPE as a potentially feasible, culturally specific therapeutic approach for the 2STNB community who are people of color. Future randomized controlled trials comparing HOPE to existing evidence-based treatments are needed. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05140174; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05140174 ", doi="10.2196/64477", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e64477" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68782, author="Lumsdon, Jack and Wilson, Cameron and Alcock, Lisa and Becker, Clemens and Benvenuti, Francesco and Bonci, Tecla and van den Brande, Koen and Brittain, Gavin and Brown, Philip and Buckley, Ellen and Caruso, Marco and Caulfield, Brian and Cereatti, Andrea and Delgado-Ortiz, Laura and Del Din, Silvia and Evers, Jordi and Garcia-Aymerich, Judith and Ga{\ss}ner, Heiko and Gur Arieh, Tova and Hansen, Clint and Hausdorff, M. Jeffrey and Hiden, Hugo and Hume, Emily and Kirk, Cameron and Maetzler, Walter and Megaritis, Dimitrios and Rochester, Lynn and Scott, Kirsty and Sharrack, Basil and Sutton, Norman and Vereijken, Beatrix and Vogiatzis, Ioannis and Yarnall, Alison and Keogh, Alison and Cantu, Alma", title="Cocreating the Visualization of Digital Mobility Outcomes: Delphi-Type Process With Patients", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="9", volume="9", pages="e68782", keywords="mobility", keywords="data visualization", keywords="wearable devices", keywords="digital mobility outcomes", keywords="cocreation", abstract="Background: Recent technological advances in wearable devices offer new potential for measuring mobility in real-world contexts. Mobilise-D has validated digital mobility outcomes to provide novel outcomes and end points in clinical research of 4 different long-term health conditions (Parkinson disease, multiple sclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and proximal femoral fracture). These outcomes also provide unique information that is important to patients; however, there is limited literature that explores the optimal methods to achieve this, such as the best way to visualize patients' data. Objective: This study aimed to identify meaningful outcomes for each condition and how to best visualize them from the perspective of end users. Methods: Using a Delphi-type protocol with patients as subject matter experts, we gathered iterative feedback on the cocreation of visualizations through 3 rounds of questionnaires. An open-ended questionnaire was used in round 1 to understand what aspects of mobility were most influenced by their health condition. These responses were mapped onto relevant digital mobility outcomes and walking experiences and then prioritized for visualization. Using patient responses, we worked alongside researchers, clinicians, and a patient advisory group to develop visualizations that depicted a week of mobility data. During rounds 2 and 3, participants rated usefulness and ease of understanding on a 5-point Likert scale and provided unstructured feedback in comment boxes for each visualization. Visualizations were refined using the feedback from round 2 before receiving further feedback in round 3. Results: Participation varied across rounds 1 to 3 (n=48, n=79, and n=78, respectively). Round 1 identified important outcomes and contexts for each health condition, such as walking speed and stride length for people with Parkinson disease or multiple sclerosis and number of steps for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or proximal femoral fracture. The consensus was not reached for any visualization reviewed in round 2 or 3. Feedback was generally positive, and some participants reported that they were able to understand the visualization and interpret what the visualization represented. Conclusions: Through the feedback provided and existing data visualization principles, we developed recommendations for future visualizations of mobility- and health-related data. Visualizations should be readable by ensuring that large and clear fonts are used and should be friendly for people with vision impairments, such as color blindness. Patients have a strong understanding of their own condition and its variability; hence, adding additional factors into visualizations is recommended to better reflect the nuances of a condition. Ensuring that outcomes and visualizations are meaningful requires close collaboration with patients throughout the development process. ", doi="10.2196/68782", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68782" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/55087, author="Miyagami, Taiju and Nishizaki, Yuji and Shimizu, Taro and Yamamoto, Yu and Shikino, Kiyoshi and Kataoka, Koshi and Nojima, Masanori and Deshpande, A. Gautam and Naito, Toshio and Tokuda, Yasuharu", title="Evaluating the Use of a Note-Taking App by Japanese Resident Physicians: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="9", volume="9", pages="e55087", keywords="note-taking", keywords="applications", keywords="digital notes", keywords="resident physicians", keywords="medical education", abstract="Background: Note-taking is a method that has long been used to optimize studying. Recent innovations have seen the introduction of digital note-taking using software apps. Although the current state of digital note-taking has been verified mainly among students, the use and efficacy of digital note-taking by physicians in actual clinical practice remain unknown. Therefore, we sought to understand the characteristics of note-taking residents using a note-taking app and determine whether there is a difference in basic medical knowledge compared to that of nondigital note-taking residents. Objective: This study investigated the use of a digital note-taking app by Japanese resident physicians. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in resident physicians during the General Medicine In-Training Examination (GM-ITE), a clinical competency examination for resident physicians. The GM-ITE is a multiple-choice test with a maximum score of 80 points. Using a structured questionnaire, we collected data on the sociodemographic characteristics (sex, age, postgraduate year [PGY], or others), clinical training, GM-ITE scores, and the use of an app for note-taking to record case experience. The GM-ITE evaluated the scores by dividing them into 4 groups (groups 1?4), in order from the lowest to the highest. We conducted a multivariate analysis of sociodemographic, clinical training, and GM-ITE score variables to determine the independent predictors of the use of a digital note-taking app. Results: This study included 3833 participants; 1242 (32.4\%) were female, 1988 (51.8\%) were PGY 1 residents, 2628 (68.6\%) were training in a rural area, 3236 (84.4\%) were in community-based hospitals, and 1750 (45.3\%) were app users. The app users were more likely to be in their PGY 2, to work in a community-based hospital, to have general internal medicine rotation experience, to use online medical resources more frequently, and to have more time for self-study. The results showed that the app users group had a higher GM-ITE score than the nonapp users group (adjusted odds ratio 0.74, 95\% CI 0.25 to 1.22; P=.003). Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate note-taking by physicians in Japan using apps. The app users group had a higher GM-ITE score than the nonapp users, suggesting that they may have higher clinical skills. In the future, we would like to conduct more in-depth research on the facts of note-taking using apps, based on our results. ", doi="10.2196/55087", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e55087" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69611, author="He, Jia Aaron Wan and Yuan, Runqi and Luk, Tsun Tzu and Wang, Ping Kelvin Man and Chan, Chee Sophia Siu", title="Boosting Digital Health Engagement Among Older Adults in Hong Kong: Pilot Pre-Post Study of the Generations Connect Project", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="8", volume="9", pages="e69611", keywords="older adults", keywords="eHealth literacy", keywords="home-based intervention", keywords="intergenerational learning", keywords="health promotion", abstract="Background: Older adults' utilization of digital health care remains low despite a high demand for regular health services. Easily accessible eHealth interventions designed for older adults are needed. Objective: This study aimed to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of an intergenerational, home-based eHealth literacy intervention package on older adults in Hong Kong. Methods: In this study, 101 older adults (n=64, 63.4\% female) with a median age of 80 (IQR 77-85) years received an intergenerational, home-based eHealth literacy intervention package, delivered by trained university student interventionists. The intervention (median 60, IQR 40.8-70 minutes) included personalized guidance on using mobile health apps, QR code scanners and instant messaging, and access to online health information, along with recommendations for physical and mental well-being. Following the intervention, a daily health-coaching message was sent to older adults via WhatsApp for 14 days. eHealth literacy, health, and lifestyle were assessed at baseline and at a 2-week follow-up using paired t tests. Results: Retention rate for the 2-week follow-up was 70.3\% (71/101). Compared to baseline, eHealth literacy scores increased by 2.39 points (P=.11; Cohen d=0.20), and daily smartphone use rose by 0.45 hours (P=.07; Cohen d=0.05). Participants self-reported increased physical activity (50/71, 70\%), more frequent viewing of health videos (43/70, 61\%), and improved handwashing practices (39/71, 55\%). The intervention achieved a high satisfaction rating of 4.32 out of 5. Conclusions: The intergenerational, home-based eHealth literacy intervention package was feasible and acceptable, showing promise for increasing older adults' engagement with digital health care resources and promoting healthy behaviors. Future studies should explore longer-term effects and ways to further improve the intervention. ", doi="10.2196/69611", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69611" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59764, author="Austb{\o}, Holteng Lise Birgitte and Testad, Ingelin and Gjestsen, Therese Martha", title="Using a Robot to Address the Well-Being, Social Isolation, and Loneliness of Care Home Residents via Video Calls: Qualitative Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="8", volume="9", pages="e59764", keywords="care home", keywords="geriatric", keywords="aging", keywords="dementia", keywords="user experience", keywords="social isolation", keywords="loneliness", keywords="feasibility", keywords="robot", keywords="video calls", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: About 40,000 people are living in Norwegian care homes, where a majority are living with a dementia diagnosis. Social isolation and loneliness are common issues affecting care home residents' quality of life. Due to visitation restrictions during the pandemic, residents and family members started using digital solutions to keep in contact. There is no framework or guidelines to inform the uptake and use of technologies in the care home context, and this often results in non-adoption and a lack of use after the introduction phase. Hence, there is a great need for research on the feasibility of a robot that can facilitate video communication between residents and family members. Objective: This study aimed to (1) introduce video communication through a robot to address social isolation and loneliness in a care home during a period of 6 weeks and (2) identify elements central to the feasibility concerning testing and evaluating the use of the robot. Methods: Three focus group interviews were undertaken: 1 with family members (n=4) and 2 with care staff (n=2 each). The informants were purposely selected to ensure that they had the proper amount of experience with the robot to have the ability to inform this study's objectives. The focus group interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim, then subsequently analyzed using systematic text condensation. Results: The data analysis of focus group interviews and individual interviews resulted in three categories: (1) organizing the facilitation of video calls, (2) using a robot in dementia care, and (3) user experience with the robot. Conclusions: Video communication in care homes is a feasible alternative to face-to-face interactions, but it depends on organizational factors such as information flow, resources, and scheduling. In dementia care, the user-friendly robot supports person-centered care through tailored social interaction. Both family members and staff express enthusiasm for video calls as an option and see its potential for future use. ", doi="10.2196/59764", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e59764" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67685, author="Rubyan, Michael and Gouseinov, Yana and Morgan, Mikayla and Rubyan, Deborah and Jahagirdar, Divya and Choberka, David and Boyd, J. Carol and Shuman, Clayton", title="Evaluating the Usability, Acceptability, User Experience, and Design of an Interactive Responsive Platform to Improve Perinatal Nurses' Stigmatizing Attitudes Toward Substance Use in Pregnancy: Mixed Methods Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="May", day="8", volume="12", pages="e67685", keywords="digital platform", keywords="nurse training", keywords="usability", keywords="user experience", keywords="user interface", keywords="mixed methods", keywords="theatre testing", keywords="stigma", keywords="perinatal substance use", keywords="art intervention", keywords="acceptability", keywords="perinatal", keywords="substance use", keywords="pregnancy", keywords="perinatal nurse", keywords="feasibility", keywords="interactive responsive platform", abstract="Background: Perinatal nurses are increasingly encountering patients who have engaged in perinatal substance use (PSU). Despite growing evidence demonstrating the need to reduce nurses' stigmatizing attitudes toward PSU, limited interventions are available to target these attitudes and support behavior change, especially those reflecting the overwhelming evidence that education alone is insufficient to change practice behavior. Arts-based interventions are associated with increasing nursing empathy, changing patient attitudes, improving reflective practice, and decreasing stigma. We adapted ArtSpective for PSU---a previously evaluated, in-person, arts-based intervention to reduce stigma toward PSU among perinatal nurses---into an interactive, digital, and responsive platform that facilitates intervention delivery asynchronously. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the usability, acceptability, and feasibility of the interactive, responsive platform version of ArtSpective for PSU. Our goal was to elicit the strengths and weaknesses of the responsive platform by evaluating the user experience to identify strategies to overcome them. Methods: This study used a mixed methods approach to explore the platform's usability, user experience, and acceptability as an intervention to address stigma and implicit bias related to PSU. Theatre testing was used to qualitatively assess usability and acceptability perspectives with nurses and experts; a modified version of the previously validated 8-item Abbreviated Acceptability Rating Profile was used for quantitative assessment. Quantitative data for acceptability and satisfaction were analyzed using descriptive statistics. All qualitative data were analyzed iteratively using an inductive framework analysis approach. Results: Overall, 21 nurses and 4 experts in stigma, implicit bias, and instructional design completed theatre-testing sessions. The mean duration of interviews was 31.92 (SD 11.32) minutes for nurses and 40.73 (SD 8.57) minutes for experts. All participants indicated that they found the digital adaptation of the intervention to be highly acceptable, with mean acceptability items ranging from 5.0 (SD 1.0) to 5.5 (SD 0.6) on a 1-6 agreement scale. Nurses reported high satisfaction with the platform, with mean satisfaction items ranging from 5.14 (SD 0.56) to 5.29 (SD 0.63) on a 1-6 agreement scale. In total, 1797 interview segments were coded from the theatre-testing sessions with 4 major themes: appearance, navigation, characterization, and overall platform, and 16 subthemes were identified. Consistent with the quantitative findings, the results were positive overall, with participants expressing high satisfaction related to the platform's appearance, the ease with which they could navigate the various modules, engagement, clarity of the presentation, and feasibility of being completed asynchronously. Conclusions: Developing and evaluating the usability of a digital adaptation of ArtSpective for PSU resulted in strong support for the usability, acceptability, and satisfaction of the program. It also provided insight into key aspects related to acceptability and usability that should be considered when designing a digital adaptation of an arts-based intervention for health care providers. ", doi="10.2196/67685", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e67685", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40146964" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65368, author="Jospe, R. Michelle and Kendall, Martin and Schembre, M. Susan and Roy, Melyssa", title="Real-World Effectiveness of Glucose-Guided Eating Using the Data-Driven Fasting App Among Adults Interested in Weight and Glucose Management: Observational Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="8", volume="9", pages="e65368", keywords="precision health", keywords="digital health", keywords="metabolic health", keywords="personalized nutrition", keywords="blood glucose self-monitoring", keywords="biological feedback", keywords="glucose", keywords="blood glucose", keywords="monitoring", keywords="self monitoring", keywords="dietary intervention", keywords="diet", keywords="app engagement", keywords="glucose monitoring", abstract="Background: The Data-Driven Fasting (DDF) app implements glucose-guided eating (GGE), an innovative dietary intervention that encourages individuals to eat when their glucose level, measured via glucometer or continuous glucose monitor, falls below a personalized threshold to improve metabolic health. Clinical trials using GGE, facilitated by paper logging of glucose and hunger symptoms, have shown promising results. Objective: This study aimed to describe user demographics, app engagement, adherence to glucose monitoring, and the resulting impact on weight and glucose levels. Methods: Data from 6197 users who logged at least 2 days of preprandial glucose readings were analyzed over their first 30 days of app use. App engagement and changes in body weight and fasting glucose levels by baseline weight and diabetes status were examined. Users rated their preprandial hunger on a 5-point scale. Results: Participants used the app for a median of 19 (IQR 9-28) days, with a median of 7 (IQR 3-13) weight entries and 52 (IQR 25-82) glucose entries. On days when the app was used, it was used a median of 1.8 (IQR 1.4-2.1) times. A significant inverse association was observed between perceived hunger and preprandial glucose concentrations, with hunger decreasing by 0.22 units for every 1 mmol/L increase in glucose (95\% CI ?0.23 to ?0.21; P<.001). Last observation carried forward analysis resulted in weight loss of 0.7 (95\% CI ?0.8 to ?0.6) kg in the normal weight category, 1 (95\% CI ?1.1 to ?0.9) kg in the overweight category, and 1.2 (95\% CI ?1.3 to ?1.1) kg in the obese category. All weight changes nearly doubled when analyzed using a per-protocol (completers) analysis. Fasting glucose levels increased by 0.11 (95\% CI 0.09-0.12) mmol/L in the normal range and decreased by 0.14 (95\% CI ?0.16 to ?0.12) mmol/L in the prediabetes range and by 0.5 (95\% CI ?0.58 to ?0.42) mmol/L in the diabetes range. Per-protocol analysis showed fasting glucose reductions of 0.26 (SD 4.7) mg/dL in the prediabetes range and 0.94 (16.9) mg/dL in the diabetes range. Conclusions: The implementation of GGE through the DDF app in a real-world setting led to consistent weight loss across all weight categories and significant improvements in fasting glucose levels for users with prediabetes and diabetes. This study underscores the potential of the GGE to facilitate improved metabolic health. ", doi="10.2196/65368", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65368" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69144, author="Salyers, Jerome Adam and Bull, Sheana and Silvasstar, Joshva and Howell, Kevin and Wright, Tara and Banaei-Kashani, Farnoush", title="Building and Beta-Testing Be Well Buddy Chatbot, a Secure, Credible and Trustworthy AI Chatbot That Will Not Misinform, Hallucinate or Stigmatize Substance Use Disorder: Development and Usability Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="May", day="7", volume="12", pages="e69144", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="chatbot", keywords="infrastructure", keywords="substance use disorder", keywords="digital health", keywords="health communication", keywords="conversational agent", keywords="HIPAA", keywords="AI", keywords="Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act", abstract="Background: Artificially intelligent (AI) chatbots that deploy natural language processing and machine learning are becoming more common in health care to facilitate patient education and outreach; however, generative chatbots such as ChatGPT face challenges, as they can misinform and hallucinate. Health care systems are increasingly interested in using these tools for patient education, access to care, and self-management, but need reassurances that AI systems can be secure and credible. Objective: This study aimed to build a secure system that people can use to send SMS with questions about substance use, and which can be used to screen for substance use disorder (SUD). The system will rely on data transfer via third party vendors and will thus require reliable and trustworthy encryption of protected health information . Methods: We describe the process and specifications for building an AI chatbot that users can access to gain information on and screen for SUD from Be Well Texas, a clinical provider affiliated with the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio. Results: The AI chatbot system uses natural language processing and machine learning to classify expert-curated content related to SUD. It illustrates how we can comply with best practices in HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliance in data encryption for data transfer and data at rest, while still offering a state-of-the-art system that uses dynamic, user-driven conversation to dialogue about SUD, screen for SUD and access SUD treatment services. Conclusions: Recent calls for attention to user-friendly design concerning user rights that honor digital rights and regulations for digital substance use offerings suggest that this study is timely and appropriate while still advancing the field of AI. Trial Registration: Not Applicable ", doi="10.2196/69144", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e69144" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69329, author="Sanjeewa, Ruvini and Iyer, Ravi and Apputhurai, Pragalathan and Wickramasinghe, Nilmini and Meyer, Denny", title="Perception of Empathy in Mental Health Care Through Voice-Based Conversational Agent Prototypes: Experimental Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="7", volume="9", pages="e69329", keywords="perceived empathy", keywords="mental health care", keywords="helpline service", keywords="conversational agent prototypes", keywords="voice interactions", keywords="demographic information", abstract="Background: Empathy is a critical component of effective mental health care communication. Positive perceptions of empathy in conversational agents (CAs) operating in the health care domain are therefore needed to enhance the quality of care provided by these emerging technologies. However, research on how users perceive empathy in CAs is limited, particularly in voice-based prototypes. Objective: The objective of this study is to identify to what extent perceptions of empathy in CA prototypes correspond with the engineered empathy levels for these voice-based prototypes. In addition, as a secondary aim, this study investigates how the demographic characteristics of participants affect their perception of empathy in a mental health helpline service context. Methods: Swinburne University first-year psychology students (N=306) were presented with 9 CA prototypes engineered to portray low, medium, or high empathy levels, and their perceptions of empathy were collected via an electronic survey. Perceptions of empathy were rated using the Perceived Emotional Intelligence (PEI) Scale and the Raters' Scale (RS10). Results: Most participants were female (233/306, 76\%) with a mean age of 30 (SD 10.69) years, while a majority (194/306, 63\%) were of Australian and New Zealand background. A strong positive correlation between the PEI and RS10 ratings was observed (r=0.829, P<.001). The empathy ratings across the 3 engineered empathy levels showed significant differences when using both PEI ($\chi$22=11.865, P=.003) and RS10 ($\chi$22=19.737, P<.001) measures. A linear mixed model for PEI showed significantly higher ratings for high rather than low engineered empathy levels (t8=?2.34, P=.048). RS10 ratings were also significantly higher for high rather than low engineered empathy levels (t8=?2.45, P=.04). However, no significant differences were detected between the CAs with engineered medium-level empathy and the CAs with low or high engineered empathy levels. The linear mixed model for PEI showed significantly higher ratings for participants of the Asian and Other ethnic categories compared to the Oceanic category (t285=2.54, P=.01 and t286=2.25, P=.03 respectively). The RS10 ratings were also significantly higher for the Other category rather than for the Oceanic category (t284=2.24, P=.03). Women showed significantly higher RS10 ratings than men (t283=1.94, P=.05). Conclusions: Recognizing empathy levels in CA prototypes proved challenging, highlighting possible complexities involved with voice-based empathy detection. The perception of empathy may also be affected by different ethnic and gender-based factors. The study findings emphasize the importance of personalized communications by CAs, with expressions of empathy tailored to key demographic characteristics of users. Future studies in a similar context would benefit from the inclusion of participants who are end users of a mental health care service with more balanced gender and age distributions. Multimodal interactions could also be considered for CA prototype development. ", doi="10.2196/69329", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69329" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68645, author="Thomassen, Kvernberg Emil Eirik and Tveter, Therese Anne and Berg, Jorid Inger and Kristianslund, Klami Eirik and Reiner, Andrew and Hakim, Sarah and Gossec, Laure and J Macfarlane, Gary and de Thurah, Annette and {\O}ster{\aa}s, Nina", title="Feasibility of Long-Term Physical Activity Measurement With a Wearable Activity Tracker in Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis: 1-Year Longitudinal Observational Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="May", day="7", volume="12", pages="e68645", keywords="physical activity", keywords="wearables", keywords="axial spondyloarthritis", keywords="activity trackers", keywords="feasibility", abstract="Background: Using wearable activity trackers shows promise in measuring physical activity in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). However, little is known regarding the feasibility of long-term use. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the feasibility of recording physical activity using a wearable activity tracker and describe wear-time patterns among patients with axSpA. Methods: Data from a randomized controlled trial (NCT: 05031767) were analyzed. Patients with axSpA and low disease activity were recruited from an outpatient clinic and asked to wear a Garmin v{\'i}vosmart 4 activity tracker for 1 year. The activity tracker measured steps and heart rate. Trial feasibility (eligibility, inclusion rate, and patient characteristics), technical feasibility (data recorded, tracker adherence, ie, days worn, and missing data), and operational feasibility (synchronization reminders and tracker replacements) were analyzed. Tracker adherence was calculated as the percentage of recorded minutes of the maximum possible minutes. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering was used to explore tracker wear-time patterns. Results: Of the 160 patients screened, 75 (47\%) agreed to use the tracker and 64 (85\%) were analyzed (11 had insufficient data). The median activity tracker adherence over 1 year was 66\% (IQR 30?86). There was 30\% missing step and 0.01\% heart rate data in the physical activity dataset. A median of 18 (IQR 9?25) reminders per patient to synchronize activity data were distributed. Analysis of wear-time patterns resulted in 3 groups: Adherent (33/64, 51\% of patients), Minimal Use (17/64, 27\%), and Intermittently adherent (14/64, 22\%). Conclusions: Trial feasibility was low, while technical and operational feasibility were acceptable. Only 51\% of the patients were highly adherent. Activity trackers, though trendy, have low to moderate feasibility over 1 year in patients with axSpA. Automated synchronization and adherence barriers should be further explored. ", doi="10.2196/68645", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e68645" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66558, author="Ospina-Pinillos, Laura and Shambo-Rodr{\'i}guez, L. D{\'e}bora and S{\'a}nchez-N{\'i}tola, Natal{\'i} M{\'o}nica and Morales, Alexandra and Gallego-Sanchez, C. Laura and Ria{\~n}o-Fonseca, Isabel Mar{\'i}a and Bello-Tocancip{\'a}, Carolina Andrea and Navarro-Mancilla, Alvaro and Pavlich-Mariscal, A. Jaime and Pomares-Quimbaya, Alexandra and G{\'o}mez-Restrepo, Carlos and Hickie, B. Ian and Occhipinti, Jo-An", title="Co-Designing, Developing, and Testing a Mental Health Platform for Young People Using a Participatory Design Methodology in Colombia: Mixed Methods Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="May", day="6", volume="12", pages="e66558", keywords="low- and middle-income countries", keywords="Latin America", keywords="telemedicine", keywords="medical informatics", keywords="eHealth", keywords="mental health", keywords="help seeking", keywords="community-based participatory research", keywords="patient participation", keywords="patient satisfaction", abstract="Background: Globally, mental health (MH) problems increasingly affect young people, contributing significantly to disability and disease. In low- and middle-income countries, such as Colombia, barriers to accessing care exacerbate the treatment gap. In addition, the lack of widespread digital interventions further deepens the digital health divide between the Global North and Global South, limiting equitable access to innovative MH solutions. Objective: This study aims to co-design and develop an MH platform using participatory design methodologies and conduct a 15-month naturalistic observational trial to assess its feasibility among Colombian youth. Methods: This study used a mixed methods approach within a structured research and development cycle. To ensure a user-centered design, we began with a series of co-design workshops, where stakeholders collaboratively identified key user needs. Following this, usability testing was conducted in 2 stages, alpha and beta, using the System Usability Scale (SUS) to assess functionality and user experience. To capture real-world interactions, a naturalistic observational trial ran from July 2022 to October 2023, collecting data on user engagement and system performance. This study integrated quantitative and qualitative analyses. Results: A total of 146 individuals participated in the co-design process, with 110 (75.3\%) contributing to the development of platform components and 36 (24.7\%) participating in usability testing. The co-designed platform integrated several key features, including social media and advertising, an MH screening tool, registration, targeted psychoeducational resources, automated tailored recommendations, and a ``track-as-you-go'' feature for continuous MH monitoring. Additional elements included user-friendly follow-up graphs, telecounseling integration, customizable well-being nudges, an emergency button, and gamification components to enhance engagement. During usability testing, the beta prototype received a median SUS score of 85.0 (IQR 80-92.5), indicating high usability. In the subsequent observational trial, which ran from July 2022 to October 2023, a total of 435 users interacted with the platform---314 (72.2\%) as registered users and 121 (27.8\%) anonymously. Emotional distress was prevalent, with 63.7\% (200/314) of the registered users and 61.2\% (74/121) of the anonymous users reporting distress, as measured by the 6-item Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. Despite 102 users requesting telecounseling, only 26.5\% (27/102) completed a session. While usability scores remained high, engagement challenges emerged, with only 18.8\% (59/314) of the users continuing platform use beyond the first day. Conclusions: This study explored the development and user experience of a youth MH platform in Colombia, demonstrating that a cocreation approach is both feasible and effective. By actively involving users throughout the design process, the platform achieved high usability and incorporated features that resonated with its target audience. However, sustaining long-term engagement remains a challenge, as does addressing privacy concerns, particularly for younger users. These findings highlight the importance of continuous user-centered refinement to enhance both accessibility and retention in digital MH interventions. ", doi="10.2196/66558", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e66558" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68846, author="Thomas, Carien Pamela and Bark, Pippa and Rowe, Sarah", title="Exploring Therapists' Approaches to Treating Eating Disorders to Inform User-Centric App Design: Web-Based Interview Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="6", volume="9", pages="e68846", keywords="eating disorders", keywords="binge eating", keywords="bulimia", keywords="anorexia", keywords="qualitative research", keywords="mental health", keywords="smartphone apps", keywords="digital interventions", keywords="eHealth", keywords="mobile health", keywords="artificial intelligence", abstract="Background: The potential for digital interventions in self-management and treatment of mild to moderate eating disorders (EDs) has already been established. However, apps are infrequently recommended by ED therapists to their clients. Those that are recommended often have poor engagement and user satisfaction, leading to unsatisfactory outcomes. Barriers to recommendation include patient safety, data privacy, and a perception that they may not be effective. Many existing interventions have limited functionality or do not differ much from manual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or self-help books, which may not adequately support the therapeutic process or sustain user engagement. Objective: This study aims to explore the perspectives of therapists who support people with mild to moderate EDs in the community, exploring their existing treatment approach and how an ED app might fit in the treatment pathway alongside treatment. Methods: Semistructured web-based interviews were completed with ED therapists in the United Kingdom. Participants were recruited from First Steps ED, a specialist community-based ED service, and Thrive Mental Wellbeing, a workplace mental health provider. Five main themes were covered: (1) therapists' treatment approach, (2) how therapy was implemented in practice, (3) strategies for engaging and motivating clients, (4) perspectives on a potential ED app, and (5) suggestions for app content and design. A structured thematic analysis was validated by 2 researchers. Results: Overall, 12 ED and mental health therapists (mean age 28.7, SD 7.3 y; female therapists: n=7, 58\%; male therapists: n=5, 42\%) participated. Therapists dealing with complex ED issues went beyond traditional CBT using additional therapeutic techniques and a flexible, person-centered approach to treatment. This included engagement and motivational strategies to support the client, elements of which could be mirrored in an app. Therapists identified the therapeutic relationship as key to success, which might have been hard to replicate in an app. They saw the potential for evidence-based apps across all stages of the treatment pathway. The need to address safeguarding, data privacy, and the potential for triggering content within the app was vital. Conclusions: This study advanced our understanding of how to design and develop clinically safe, evidence-based ED apps that can complement therapy by extending the continuity of care and the self-management and psychoeducation of clients. It emphasized integrative, adaptive CBT that incorporated other therapeutic approaches based on individuals' needs, which could be replicated in an app, as could the strategies to support engagement and motivation. It gave a cautious yet optimistic perspective on the potential integration of apps into ED treatment across all stages of the treatment pathway, from pretreatment maintenance to posttreatment maintenance. It highlighted various concerns that could be addressed and potential limitations, such as the therapeutic relationship, while recognizing the growing potential of apps with rapid technology and artificial intelligence advancements. ", doi="10.2196/68846", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68846" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65879, author="Bennetot, Adrien and Zia Ur Rehman, Rana and Romijnders, Robbin and Li, Zhi and Macrae, Victoria and Davies, Kristen and Ng, Wan-Fai and Maetzler, Walter and Kudelka, Jennifer and Hildesheim, Hanna and Emmert, Kirsten and Paulides, Emma and van der Woude, Janneke C. and Reilmann, Ralf and Aufenberg, Svenja and Chatterjee, Meenakshi and Manyakov, V. Nikolay and Pinaud, Cl{\'e}mence and Avey, Stefan", title="Characterizing Patient-Reported Fatigue Using Electronic Diaries in Neurodegenerative and Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases: Observational Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="5", volume="9", pages="e65879", keywords="chronic disease", keywords="fatigue", keywords="neurodegenerative diseases", keywords="immune-mediated inflammatory diseases", keywords="diary, patient-reported outcomes", keywords="electronic diaries", keywords="digital technologies", keywords="digital health", keywords="eHealth", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Fatigue is a prevalent and debilitating symptom in many chronic conditions, including immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) and neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Fatigue often fluctuates significantly within and between days, yet traditional patient-reported outcomes (PROs) typically rely on recall periods of a week or more, potentially missing these short-term variations. The development of digital tools, such as electronic diaries (eDiaries), offers a unique opportunity to collect granular, real-time data. However, the feasibility, adherence, and comparability of eDiary-based assessments to established PROs require further investigation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of using a high-frequency eDiary to capture intraday variability in fatigue and to compare eDiary data with scores obtained from the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F), a validated weekly recall PRO. Methods: Data were collected from 159 participants enrolled in the IDEA-FAST (Identifying Digital Endpoints to Assess Fatigue, Sleep and Activities in Daily Living in Neurodegenerative Disorders and Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases) feasibility study; a 4-week prospective observational study conducted at 4 European centers. Participants included individuals with NDDs (n=39), IMIDs (n=78), and healthy volunteers (n=42). Participants used an eDiary to report their physical and mental fatigue levels up to 4 times daily on a 7-point Likert scale (0=low and 6=high). Adherence was calculated as the proportion of completed eDiary entries relative to the total expected entries. Correlations between averaged eDiary scores and weekly FACIT-F scores were analyzed. Results: Adherence to the eDiary protocol was 5505/8880 (61.99\%) overall, varying by cohort, with the highest adherence (1117/1200, 93.07\%) observed in the primary Sj{\"o}gren syndrome cohort and the lowest adherence in the Parkinson disease (410/960, 42.7\%) and Huntington disease (320/720, 44.4\%) cohorts. The average adherence was 430/1680 (43.45\%) in the NDD cohorts and 3367/4560 (73.84\%) in the IMID cohorts. Fatigue levels showed clear diurnal variation, with significantly higher fatigue reported in the evening compared to the morning (P<.001). A moderate correlation (Spearman=0.46, P<.001) was observed between eDiary fatigue scores and FACIT-F scores, with stronger cohort-specific associations for certain FACIT-F items. These results indicate that eDiaries provide complementary insights to weekly PROs by capturing intraday fluctuations in fatigue. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility, acceptability, and validity of using high-frequency eDiaries to assess fatigue in chronic conditions. By effectively detecting intra- and interday fatigue variations, eDiaries complement traditional PROs such as FACIT-F, offering a more nuanced understanding of fatigue patterns. Future research should explore optimized eDiary protocols to balance participant burden with data granularity. ", doi="10.2196/65879", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65879" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66108, author="Choo, Jina and Noh, Songwhi and Shin, Yura", title="Evaluating Feasibility and Acceptability of the ``My HeartHELP'' Mobile App for Promoting Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors: Mixed Methods Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="2", volume="9", pages="e66108", keywords="healthy lifestyle", keywords="primary prevention", keywords="cardiovascular diseases", keywords="community health nursing", keywords="mobile app", abstract="Background: Few mobile apps have strategies for self-monitoring multiple heart-healthy behaviors simultaneously, as well as automated and tailored feedback on individual behavioral outcomes for cardiovascular health. An app named ``My HeartHELP'' was developed for the general adult population to promote 6 heart-healthy lifestyle behaviors---physical activity, nonsedentary behaviors, healthy eating behaviors, nonsmoking, no alcohol binge drinking, and self-assessment of body weight. Three behavioral strategies were used: (1) text messaging the users for information on cardiovascular health, (2) self-monitoring of 6 heart-healthy behaviors to fill out the blanks of behavioral items, and (3) automated and tailored feedback messaging to users for behavioral outcomes obtained from self-monitoring. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the ``My HeartHELP'' app. Methods: The participants were 29 community residents in Seoul, South Korea, who met at least 1 criterion of metabolic syndrome. To evaluate the feasibility, we assessed 3 records, which are as follows: First, the ``record for self-monitoring'' was determined as feasible if an average percentage for each of the 6 behaviors over 4 weeks was 75\% or higher based on percentages of participants who completed to record each of 6 heart-healthy behaviors. Second, the ``record for access to the app'' was determined as feasible if users accessed at least once a day on average per week. Third, ``records for behavioral changes'' over 4 weeks were collected via a self-reported questionnaire. To evaluate acceptability, we used an assessment tool comprising 12 items that included subscales for comprehensibility, ease, health benefits, technical completeness, overall satisfaction, and recommendation to others on a 5-point Likert scale. Acceptability was determined as acceptable if the average scores for the total scale and each subscale were 3.5 points or greater. Second, qualitative data were collected through 2 focus groups, each consisting of 14 or 15 participants. All data were collected in June and July 2022. Results: During the 4 weeks, 95.6\% (range: 85.8\%-97.4\%) of the participants adhered to more than 75\% of ``completion of daily self-monitoring of each heart-healthy behavior,'' having met the criterion. The participants accessed the app on average 1.8 (SD 1.70) times per day, meeting the criteria. Participants had positive behavioral changes in all 6 behaviors, of which nonsedentary behavior (10\%-28\%; $\chi$21=1.76; P<.001) and non--fast-food intake were especially statistically significant (72\%-93\%; $\chi$21=5.64; P=.03) over 4 weeks. Participants reported 3.8 points for a total score of acceptability and more than 3.5 points for all subscales, which met the criterion. Qualitative data obtained from focus groups indicated that automated and tailored feedback messages motivated participants to promote healthy lifestyles. Conclusions: The ``My HeartHELP'' app may be a feasible and acceptable mobile app to promote self-monitoring and possibly behavioral changes in heart-healthy lifestyle behaviors. ", doi="10.2196/66108", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66108" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64083, author="Huebner, Hanna and Wurmthaler, A. Lena and Goossens, Chlo{\"e} and Ernst, Mathias and Mocker, Alexander and Kr{\"u}ckel, Annika and Kallert, Maximilian and Geck, J{\"u}rgen and Limpert, Milena and Seitz, Katharina and Ruebner, Matthias and Kreis, Philipp and Heindl, Felix and H{\"o}rner, Manuel and Volz, Bernhard and Roth, Eduard and Hack, C. Carolin and Beckmann, W. Matthias and Uhrig, Sabrina and Fasching, A. Peter", title="A Digital Home-Based Health Care Center for Remote Monitoring of Side Effects During Breast Cancer Therapy: Prospective, Single-Arm, Monocentric Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Cancer", year="2025", month="May", day="2", volume="11", pages="e64083", keywords="breast cancer", keywords="digital medicine", keywords="telehealth", keywords="remote monitoring", keywords="cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor", keywords="CDK4/6 inhibitor", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: The introduction of oral anticancer therapies has, at least partially, shifted treatment from clinician-supervised hospital care to patient-managed home regimens. However, patients with breast cancer receiving oral cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor therapy still require regular hospital visits to monitor side effects. Telemonitoring has the potential to reduce hospital visits while maintaining quality care. Objective: This study aims to develop a digital home-based health care center (DHHC) for acquiring electrocardiograms (ECGs), white blood cell (WBC) counts, side effect photo documentation, and patient-reported quality of life (QoL) data. Methods: The DHHC was set up using an Apple Watch Series 6 (ECG measurements), a HemoCue WBC DIFF Analyzer (WBC counts), an iPhone SE (QoL assessments and photo documentation), a TP-Link M7350-4G Wi-Fi router, and a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B. A custom-built app stored and synchronized remotely collected data with the clinic. The feasibility and acceptance of the DHHC among patients with breast cancer undergoing cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor therapy were evaluated in a prospective, single-arm, monocentric study. Patients (n=76) monitored side effects---ECGs, WBC counts, photo documentation, and QoL---at 3 predefined time points: study inclusion (on-site), day 14 (remote), and day 28 (remote). After the study completion, patients completed a comprehensive questionnaire on user perception and feasibility. Adherence to scheduled visits, the success rate of the data transfer, user perception and feasibility, and the clinical relevance of remote measurements were evaluated. Results: Mean adherence to the planned remote visits was 63\% on day 14 and 37\% on day 28. ECG measurements were performed most frequently (day 14: 57/76, 75\%; day 28: 31/76, 41\%). The primary patient-reported reason for nonadherence was device malfunction. The expected versus the received data transfer per patient was as follows: ECGs: 3 versus 3.04 (SD 1.9); WBC counts: 3 versus 2.14 (SD 1.14); QoL questionnaires: 3 versus 2.5 (SD 1.14); and photo documentation: 6 versus 4.4 (SD 3.36). Among patients, 81\% (55/68) found ECG measurements easy, 82\% (55/67) found photo documentation easy, and 48\% (33/69) found WBC measurements easy. Additionally, 61\% (40/66) of patients felt comfortable with self-monitoring and 79\% (54/68) were willing to integrate remote monitoring into their future cancer care. Therapy-induced decreased neutrophil count was successfully detected (P<.001; mean baseline: 4.3, SD 2.2, {\texttimes}109/L; on-treatment: 1.8, SD 0.8, {\texttimes}109/L). All-grade neutropenia and corrected QT interval prolongations were detected in 80\% (55/68) and 2\% (1/42) of patients, respectively. Conclusions: Adherence to scheduled remote visits was moderate, with nonadherence primarily attributed to device-related complications, which may have also affected the success rate of data transfer. Overall, patients considered remote monitoring useful and feasible. The prevalence of reported adverse events was comparable to existing literature, suggesting clinical potential. This initial feasibility study highlights the potential of the DHHC. ", doi="10.2196/64083", url="https://cancer.jmir.org/2025/1/e64083" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65418, author="Tse, Chloe Trinity and Weiner, S. Lauren and Funkhouser, J. Carter and DeLuise, Danielle and Cullen, Colleen and Blumkin, Zachary and O'Brien, Casey and Auerbach, P. Randy and Allen, B. Nicholas", title="Acceptability and Usability of a Digital Behavioral Health Platform for Youth at Risk of Suicide: User-Centered Design Study With Patients, Practitioners, and Business Gatekeepers", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="2", volume="9", pages="e65418", keywords="user-centered design", keywords="mobile sensing", keywords="behavior change", keywords="suicide prevention", keywords="digital health", keywords="mental health", abstract="Background: Youth suicide rates are climbing, underscoring the need to improve clinical care. Personal smartphones can provide an understanding of proximal risk factors associated with suicide and facilitate consistent contact between patients and practitioners to improve treatment engagement and effectiveness. The Vira digital behavior change platform (Vira) consists of a patient smartphone app and a web-based practitioner portal (Vira Pro) that integrates objective mobile sensing data with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)--compliant communication tools. Through Vira, practitioners can continuously assess patients' real-world behavior and provide clinical tools to enhance treatment via just-in-time behavior change support. Objective: This study aimed to explore the acceptability and usability of the minimal viable product version of Vira through a user-centered design (UCD) approach and to identify barriers to implementing Vira in the context of an adolescent intensive outpatient program. Methods: Over 2 iterative phases, feedback was gathered from adolescent patients (n=16), mental health practitioners (n=11), and business gatekeepers (n=5). The mixed methods UCD approach included individual semistructured interviews (eg, perspectives on treatment and attitudes toward digital tools), surveys (eg, usability), and unmoderated user testing sessions (eg, user experience). Results: Overall, participants expressed optimism regarding Vira, particularly among adolescents, who showed high satisfaction with the app's interface and design. However, clinicians reported more mixed views, agreeing that it would be useful in treatment but also expressing concerns about the volume and displays of patient data in Vira Pro, workload management, and boundaries. Gatekeepers identified usability issues and implementation barriers related to electronic health records but also recognized Vira's potential to enhance treatment outcomes. Feedback from stakeholders informed several crucial changes to the platform, including adjustments to data-sharing protocols, user interface enhancements, and modifications to training methods. Conclusions: Vira has a high potential to improve patient engagement and improve clinical outcomes among high-risk youth. Iterative UCD and ongoing stakeholder engagement are essential for developing technology-based interventions that effectively meet the needs of diverse end users and align with clinical workflows. ", doi="10.2196/65418", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65418" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/58427, author="Lincke, Lena and Martin-D{\"o}ring, Tim and Daunke, Andrea and Sadkowiak, Antonia and Nolkemper, Alexandra Daria and Sproeber-Kolb, Nina and Bienioschek, Stefanie and Reis, Olaf and K{\"o}lch, Michael", title="Integration of a Mental Health App (e-MICHI) Into a Blended Treatment of Depression in Adolescents: Single-Group, Naturalistic Feasibility Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="1", volume="9", pages="e58427", keywords="adolescents", keywords="major depressive disorder (MDD)", keywords="cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)", keywords="digital health interventions (DHIs)", keywords="feasibility", keywords="adherence", keywords="outpatient setting", keywords="mobile application", keywords="accessibility", keywords="availability", keywords="efficacy", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Major depressive disorder is a common diagnosis among adolescents. Cognitive behavioral therapy is recommended as the first line of treatment. Digital health interventions, such as apps, could contribute to treatment. Advantages could be easy accessibility and availability, reduced time for face-to-face therapy, and the ability to intensify therapy by incorporating it into the patients' everyday lives. Challenges such as low adherence rates are common in digital health interventions. Therefore, they need to undergo rigorous testing for feasibility and effectiveness. Objective: An evaluated, cognitive behavioral therapy--based face-to-face therapy program for depression in adolescents was transformed into an app called e-MICHI. This study examined its feasibility and efficacy for use in blended therapy in outpatient settings. Methods: Adolescents aged 12 to 18 years with major depressive disorder receiving outpatient care were recruited from 2 university hospitals (n=36 included in analysis). The e-MICHI intervention combined daily app engagement over 6 weeks with 3 face-to-face sessions with a therapist. Feasibility was measured using various variables, including an adherence score (0=no or little patient engagement to 3=excellent engagement) and engagement rates (number of modules completed, number of messages sent by participants via the in-app messenger), satisfaction ratings from both participants and therapists, as well as participants' ratings of the usefulness of the antidepressant strategies covered in the app and the transfer of these strategies to everyday practice. Trends of efficacy were evaluated from multiple perspectives (participant self-rating, independent rater, or therapist), using the Beck Depression Inventory-II, the Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised, and the Clinical Global Impressions-Severity Scale. Feasibility metrics were assessed by analyzing their central tendency and dispersion, efficacy data were analyzed using a repeated measures ANOVA. Results: e-MICHI was positively evaluated by both participants and therapists (participants: mean 7.3, SD 1.2 and therapists: mean 7.3, SD 1.1, on a scale from 0=bad to 10=excellent). Participants demonstrated high adherence rates (nearly 80\%, n=25, received a ``good'' or ``excellent'' adherence score) and showed overall good engagement (app modules completed [maximum 6]: mean 5.03, SD 1.27 and messages sent via messenger: mean 23, SD 22.1). Participants rated the psychoeducational content of the app as particularly useful and reported consistent practice of the e-MICHI strategies in everyday life. Use of the app was associated with a significant reduction of depressive symptoms (before app use vs 3-month follow-up, Beck Depression Inventory-II: mean ?6.76, SD 11.49, P=.01; Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised: mean ?16.45, SD 16.76, P<.001; Clinical Global Impressions-Severity Scale: mean ?1.1, SD 1.24, P<.001). Conclusions: While acknowledging its limitations, such as the small number of participants and the limited validity concerning efficacy, this study confirms the feasibility of e-MICHI for treating adolescent depression in outpatient settings. Trial Registration: German Clinical Trial Register DRKS00022420; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00022420/details ", doi="10.2196/58427", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e58427" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66189, author="Li, Hui and Yao, Haiyang and Gao, Yuxiang and Luo, Hang and Cai, Changbin and Zhou, Zhou and Yuan, Muhan and Jiang, Wei", title="Identification of Major Bleeding Events in Postoperative Patients With Malignant Tumors in Chinese Electronic Medical Records: Algorithm Development and Validation", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="1", volume="9", pages="e66189", keywords="machine learning", keywords="electronic medical record", keywords="postoperative patients with malignant tumors", keywords="postoperative bleeding", keywords="tumor surgery", keywords="abdominal", abstract="Background: Postoperative bleeding is a serious complication following abdominal tumor surgery, but it is often not clearly diagnosed and documented in clinical practice in China. Previous studies have relied on manual interpretation of medical records to determine the presence of postoperative bleeding in patients, which is time-consuming and laborious. More critically, this manual approach severely hinders the efficient analysis of large volumes of medical data, impeding in-depth research into the incidence patterns and risk factors of postoperative bleeding. It remains unclear whether machine learning can play a role in processing large volumes of medical text to identify postoperative bleeding effectively. Objective: This study aimed to develop a machine learning model tool for identifying postoperative patients with major bleeding based on the electronic medical record system. Methods: This study used data from the available information in the National Health and Medical Big Data (Eastern) Center in Jiangsu Province of China. We randomly selected the medical records of 2,000 patients who underwent in-hospital tumor resection surgery between January 2018 and December 2021 from the database. Physicians manually classified each note as present or absent for a major bleeding event during the postoperative hospital stay. Feature engineering involved bleeding expressions, high-frequency related expressions, and quantitative logical judgment, resulting in 270 features. Logistic regression (LR), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), and convolutional neural network (CNN) models were developed and trained using the 1600-note training set. The main outcomes were accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for each model. Results: Major bleeding was present in 4.31\% (69/1600) of the training set and 4.75\% (19/400) of the test set. In the test set, the LR method achieved an accuracy of 0.8275, a sensitivity of 0.8947, a specificity of 0.8241, a PPV of 0.2024, an NPV of 0.9937, and an F1-score of 0.3301. The CNN method demonstrated an accuracy of 0.8900, sensitivity of 0.8421, specificity of 0.8924, PPV of 0.2807, NPV of 0.9913, and an F1-score of 0.4211. While the KNN method showed a high specificity of 0.9948 and an accuracy of 0.9575 in the test set, its sensitivity was notably low at 0.2105. The C-statistic for the LR method was 0.9018 and for the CNN method was 0.8830. Conclusions: Both the LR and CNN methods demonstrate good performance in identifying major bleeding in patients with postoperative malignant tumors from electronic medical records, exhibiting high sensitivity and specificity. Given the higher sensitivity of the LR method (89.47\%) and the higher specificity of the CNN method (89.24\%) in the test set, both models hold promise for practical application, depending on specific clinical priorities. ", doi="10.2196/66189", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66189" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59631, author="Waugh, Lim Mihyun and Mills, Tyler and Boltin, Nicholas and Wolf, Lauren and Parker, Patti and Horner, Ronnie and Wheeler II, L. Thomas and Goodwin, L. Richard and Moss, A. Melissa", title="Predicting Transvaginal Surgical Mesh Exposure Outcomes Using an Integrated Dataset of Blood Cytokine Levels and Medical Record Data: Machine Learning Approach", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="May", day="1", volume="9", pages="e59631", keywords="cytokines", keywords="inflammatory response", keywords="medical record", keywords="pelvic organ prolapse", keywords="polypropylene mesh", keywords="supervised machine learning models", keywords="polypropylene", keywords="mesh surgery", keywords="surgical outcome", keywords="cost-efficiency", keywords="risk factor", keywords="efficacy", keywords="health care data", keywords="female", keywords="informed decision-making", keywords="patient care", keywords="digital health", abstract="Background: Transvaginal insertion of polypropylene mesh was extensively used in surgical procedures to treat pelvic organ prolapse (POP) due to its cost-efficiency and durability. However, studies have reported a high rate of complications, including mesh exposure through the vaginal wall. Developing predictive models via supervised machine learning holds promise in identifying risk factors associated with such complications, thereby facilitating better informed surgical decisions. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of anticipating medical outcomes by employing supervised machine learning approaches that integrate patient health care data with laboratory findings. However, such an approach has not been adopted within the realm of POP mesh surgery. Objective: We examined the efficacy of supervised machine learning to predict mesh exposure following transvaginal POP surgery using 3 different datasets: (1) patient medical record data, (2) biomaterial-induced blood cytokine levels, and (3) the integration of both. Methods: Blood samples and medical record data were collected from 20 female patients who had prior surgical intervention for POP using transvaginal polypropylene mesh. Of these subjects, 10 had experienced mesh exposure through the vaginal wall following surgery, and 10 had not. Standardized medical record data, including vital signs, previous diagnoses, and social history, were acquired from patient records. In addition, cytokine levels in patient blood samples incubated with sterile polypropylene mesh were measured via multiplex assay. Datasets were created with patient medical record data alone, blood cytokine levels alone, and the integration of both data. The data were split into 70\% and 30\% for training and testing sets, respectively, for machine learning models that predicted the presence or absence of postsurgical mesh exposure. Results: Upon training the models with patient medical record data, systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and a history of alcohol usage emerged as the most significant factors for predicting mesh exposure. Conversely, when the models were trained solely on blood cytokine levels, interleukin (IL)-1$\beta$ and IL-12 p40 stood out as the most influential cytokines in predicting mesh exposure. Using the combined dataset, new factors emerged as the primary predictors of mesh exposure: IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-$\alpha$, and the presence of hemorrhoids. Remarkably, models trained on the integrated dataset demonstrated superior predictive capabilities with a prediction accuracy as high as 94\%, surpassing the predictive performance of individual datasets. Conclusions: Supervised machine learning models demonstrated improved prediction accuracy when trained using a composite dataset that combined patient medical record data and biomaterial-induced blood cytokine levels, surpassing the performance of models trained with either dataset in isolation. This result underscores the advantage of integrating health care data with blood biomarkers, presenting a promising avenue for predicting surgical outcomes in not only POP mesh procedures but also other surgeries involving biomaterials. Such an approach has the potential to enhance informed decision-making for both patients and surgeons, ultimately elevating the standard of patient care. ", doi="10.2196/59631", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e59631" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63028, author="Biswas, Sawona and So, Joyce and Wallerstein, Robert and Gonzales, Ralph and Tout, Delphine and DeAngelis, Lisa and Rajkovic, Aleksandar", title="Assessing the Utilization of Electronic Consultations in Genetics: Seven-Year Retrospective Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="30", volume="9", pages="e63028", keywords="genomic", keywords="e-Consult", keywords="genetic", keywords="utility", keywords="retrospective", keywords="assessment", keywords="effectiveness", keywords="electronic consultation", keywords="healthcare providers", keywords="genetic experts", keywords="university", keywords="consultations", keywords="e-Consult frameworks", keywords="accessibility", keywords="genetic testing", keywords="patient care", abstract="Background: Patient and health care provider access to genetic subspecialists is challenging owing to limited number of genetics experts across the United States. The University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Genetics electronic consultation (e-Consult) service was implemented along with the usual referral pathway to improve access to timely genetic expertise through robust asynchronous provider-to-provider communication. Objectives: This study examined the impact of the UCSF Genetics e-Consult service on patient access to genetics expertise. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 622 e-Consult requests was conducted. Data pertinent to e-Consult completion rates, provider response times, consultation content, and adherence to geneticist recommendations were abstracted. Results: From October 2016 to March 2024, the UCSF Genetics e-Consult service received a total of 622 consultation orders, with yearly volumes increasing from 34 in 2017 to 144 in 2023. A total of 360/622 (57.8\%) consultations were completed, of which 197/360 (54.6\%) were resolved without requiring a specialty care visit. Of the 262/622 (42.1\%) e-Consult orders declined by the geneticist reviewer, 184/262 (70.2\%) were scheduled for a synchronous genetics visit due to case complexity precluding an appropriate e-Consult response and 29.8\% (78/262) were recommended to be referred to a different and more appropriate specialty. Geneticists responded to 83.9\% (522/622) of e-Consults within 3 days, with most spending between 5 and 20 minutes on their e-Consult response. Nearly half of the genetics e-Consult requests (69/144; 47.9\%) came from primary care providers and pediatricians. Among the 144 e-Consult requests in 2023, 50.6\% (73/144) were about diagnostic queries, 17\% (25/144) were on symptom management, and 11\% (16/144) were about test interpretation. Provider adherence to geneticists' recommendations was observed in 84\% (116/144) of cases. Conclusions: The UCSF Genetics e-Consult service has demonstrated efficiency in providing timely genetic consultations, with a high rate of provider adherence to recommendations. These findings support the potential of e-Consult frameworks as a viable strategy for enhancing access to genetic health care services. ", doi="10.2196/63028", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63028" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66889, author="Brown, Christian Marsalis and Lin, Quincy Christopher and Jin, Christopher and Rohde, Matthew and Rocos, Brett and Belding, Jonathan and Woods, I. Barrett and Ackerman, J. Stacey", title="Effect of a Digital Health Exercise Program on the Intention for Spinal Surgery in Adult Spinal Deformity: Exploratory Cross-Sectional Survey", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="29", volume="9", pages="e66889", keywords="adult spinal deformity", keywords="scoliosis", keywords="nonoperative management", keywords="spinal realignment therapy", keywords="digital health", keywords="program evaluation", abstract="Background: Adult spinal deformity (ASD) is a prevalent condition estimated at 38\%. Symptomatic ASD is associated with substantial health care costs. The role of nonoperative interventions in the management of ASD remains elusive. The National Scoliosis Clinic's (NSC) scoliosis realignment therapy (SRT) is a personalized digital health exercise program for the nonoperative management of ASD. Objective: This exploratory study had two objectives: (1) to evaluate the effect of the SRT program on users' intention of having spinal fusion; and (2) from a US payer perspective, to estimate the annual cost savings per 100,000 beneficiaries by averting spinal surgery. Methods: Individuals were enrolled in the SRT study from October 1, 2023 to September 1, 2024. Participants completed a web-based, cross-sectional survey about their history of prior scoliosis surgery and intent of having surgery before and after use of SRT (on a 4-point Likert scale, where 1 = ``No Intent for Surgery'' and 4 = ``High Intent for Surgery''). Intent for surgery before and after participation in SRT was compared using a nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired data. Annual cost savings per 100,000 beneficiaries by averting spinal fusions were estimated separately for commercial payers and Medicare using published literature and public data sources. Payer expenditures were inflation-adjusted to 2024 US dollars using the Hospital Services component of the Consumer Price Index. Results: A total of 62 NSC members (38.8\%) responded to the survey and were enrolled in the SRT program for an average (SD) of 17 (12) weeks. The mean (SD) age was 65.3 (13.5) years, and the majority were female (47/48, 98\%) and White (45/46, 98\%). Among the SRT users who did not have prior scoliosis surgery (n=56), 14\% (8/56) reported a decrease in intent for surgery (that is, a lower Likert score) with the use of SRT. The mean (SD) intent for surgery scores before compared to after SRT were 1.29 (0.53) and 1.14 (0.35), respectively (mean difference 0.15 [P=.006]). Participants with ``No Intent for Surgery'' pre- versus postuse of SRT (42/56 versus 48/56, respectively) corresponded to an absolute risk reduction of 11\% and a number needed to treat of 9 to avert one spinal fusion. Among the 6 participants who transitioned to ``No Intent'' for spinal surgery with the use of SRT, 3 were aged <65 years and 3 were ?65 years of age. The annual cost savings from averted spinal surgeries were estimated at US \$415,000 per 100,000 commercially-insured beneficiaries and US \$617,000 per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries. Conclusions: SRT is a personalized, scoliosis-specific digital health exercise program with the potential for averting 1 spinal surgery for every 9 participants, resulting in a substantial reduction in payer expenditures while improving the quality of care for commercial payers and Medicare beneficiaries. ", doi="10.2196/66889", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66889" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/56855, author="Tuot, Delphine and Crowley, Susan and Katz, Lois and Leung, Joseph and Alcantara-Cadillo, Delly and Ruser, Christopher and Talbot-Montgomery, Elizabeth and Vassalotti, Joseph", title="Impact of the Kidney Score Platform on Communication About and Patients' Engagement With Chronic Kidney Disease Health: Pre--Post Intervention Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="29", volume="9", pages="e56855", keywords="chronic kidney disease", keywords="CKD", keywords="CKD communication", keywords="CKD knowledge", keywords="patient activation", keywords="kidney", keywords="kidney score platform", keywords="kidney health", keywords="United States", keywords="US", keywords="adult", keywords="aging", keywords="clinical practice", keywords="awareness campaign", keywords="health information", keywords="clinician", keywords="primary care", keywords="longitudinal intervention", keywords="web-based", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mHealth", abstract="Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 14\% of the US adult population, yet patient knowledge about kidney disease and engagement in their kidney health is low despite many CKD education programs, awareness campaigns, and clinical practice guidelines. Objective: We aimed to examine the impact of the Kidney Score Platform (a patient-facing, risk-based online tool that provides interactive health information tailored to an individual's CKD risk plus an accompanying clinician-facing Clinical Practice Toolkit) on individual engagement with CKD health and CKD communication between clinicians and patients. Methods: We conducted a pre-post intervention study in which English-speaking veterans at risk for CKD in two primary care settings interacted with the Kidney Score platform's educational modules and their primary care clinicians were encouraged to review the Clinical Practice Toolkit. The impact of the Kidney Score on the Patient Activation Measure (the primary outcome), knowledge about CKD, and communication with their clinician about kidney health was determined with paired t tests. Multivariable linear and logistic models were used to determine whether changes in outcomes after versus before intervention were influenced by age, race or ethnicity, sex, and diabetes status, accounting for baseline values. Results: The study population (n=76) had a mean (SD) age of 64.4 (8.2) years, 88\% (67/76) was male, and 30.3\% (23/76) self-identified as African-American. Approximately 93\% (71/76) had hypertension, 36\% (27/76) had diabetes, and 9.2\% (7/76) had CKD according to the laboratory criteria but without an ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition) diagnosis. Patient interaction with the Kidney Score did not change the mean Patient Activation Measure (preintervention: 40.7\%, postintervention: 40.2\%, P=.23) but increased the mean CKD knowledge score (preintervention: 40.0\%, postintervention 51.1\%, P<.01), and changed the percentage of veterans who discussed CKD with their clinician (preintervention: 12.3\%, postintervention: 31.5\%, P<.01). Changes did not differ by age, sex, race, or diabetes status. Results were limited by the small sample size due to low recruitment and minimal clinician engagement with the Clinical Practice Toolkit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: One-time web-based tailored education for patients can increase CKD knowledge and encourage conversations about kidney health. Increasing patient activation for CKD management may require multilevel, longitudinal interventions that facilitate ongoing conversations about kidney health between patients and clinician teams. ", doi="10.2196/56855", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e56855" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59640, author="Minich, Matt and Kerr, Bradley and Moreno, Megan", title="Adolescent Emoji Use in Text-Based Messaging: Focus Group Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="28", volume="9", pages="e59640", keywords="communication", keywords="text messaging", keywords="smartphones", keywords="emoji", keywords="focus groups", keywords="adolescent", keywords="teen", keywords="youth", keywords="teenagers", keywords="text", keywords="phone", keywords="messaging", keywords="text communication", keywords="emotion", abstract="Background: Adolescents increasingly communicate through text-based messaging platforms such as SMS and social media messaging. These are now the dominant platforms for communication between adolescents, and adolescents use them to obtain emotional support from parents and other adults. The absence of nonverbal cues can make it challenging to communicate emotions on these platforms, however, so users rely on emojis to communicate sentiment or imbue messages with emotional tone. While research has investigated the functions of emojis in adult communication, less is known about adolescent emoji use. Objective: This study sought to understand whether the pragmatic functions of adolescent emoji use resemble those of adults, and to gain insight into the semantic meanings of emojis sent by adolescents. Methods: Web-based focus groups were conducted with a convenience sample of adolescents, in which participants responded to questions about their use and interpretation of emojis and engaged in unstructured interactions with one another. Two trained coders analyzed transcripts using a constant comparative coding procedure to identify themes in the discussion. Results: A total of 6 focus groups were conducted with 31 adolescent participants (mean age 16.2, SD 1.5 years). Discussion in the groups generally fell into 4 themes: emojis as humorous or absurd, emokis as insincere or complex expressions of setiment, emojis as straightforward experssions of sentiment, and emojis as having context-dependent meanings. Across themes, participants often described important differences between their own emoji use and emoji use by adults. Conclusions: Adolescent focus group participants described patterns of emoji use that largely resembled those observed in studies of adults. Like adults, our adolescent participants described emojis' semantic meanings as being highly flexible and context-dependent. They also described both phatic and emotive functions of emoji use but described both functions in ways that differed from the patterns of emoji use described in adult samples. Adolescents described their phatic emoji use as absurd and described their emotive emoji use as most often sarcastic. These findings suggest that emoji use serves similar pragmatic functions for both adolescents and adults, but that adolescents see their emoji use as more complex than adult emoji use. This has important implications for adults who communicate with adolescents through text-based messaging and for researchers interested in adolescents' text-based communication. ", doi="10.2196/59640", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e59640" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60612, author="Standaar, Lucille and Israel, Margje Adriana and van der Vaart, Rosalie and Keij, Brigitta and van Lenthe, J. Frank and Friele, Roland and Beenackers, A. Mari{\"e}lle and van Tuyl, Davida Lilian Huibertina", title="The Motivations of Citizens to Attend an eHealth Course in the Public Library: Qualitative Interview Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="28", volume="9", pages="e60612", keywords="digital health", keywords="help-seeking behavior", keywords="socioeconomic factors", keywords="community health services", keywords="older people", keywords="eHealth", keywords="older adults", keywords="geriatric", keywords="support", keywords="eHealth literacy", keywords="interview", keywords="Netherlands", keywords="thematic data analysis", keywords="health literacy", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: There is worldwide recognition of the potential increase of digital health inequity due to the increased digitalization of health care systems. Digital health skill development may prevent disparities in eHealth access and use. In the Dutch context, the public library has started to facilitate support in digital health skill development by offering public eHealth courses. Understanding the motivations of people to seek support may help to further develop this type of public service. Objective: This is a qualitative study on the motivations of citizens participating in an eHealth course offered by public libraries. The study aimed to explore why citizens were motivated to seek nonformal support for eHealth use. Methods: A total of 20 semistructured interviews with participants who participated in an eHealth course were conducted in 7 public libraries across the Netherlands. The interviews were conducted between April and June 2022. Purposive sampling took place in the public library during the eHealth course. The interviews covered participants' motivations, attitudes, and experiences with eHealth use and their motivations to seek help with eHealth use. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Themes were identified via a comprehensive thematic data analysis. Results: The participants were 51 to 82 years of age (average 73.5, SD 6.6 y) and 14 (70\%) participants were female. Three motivational themes were identified: (1) adapting to an increasingly digital society, (2) sense of urgency facilitated by prior experience in health care, and (3) a need for self-reliance and autonomy. Additionally, participants expressed a general desire for social contact and lifelong learning. A lack of adequate informal support by friends and family for digital skills and positive experiences with formal support from public libraries stimulated the participants to seek formal support for eHealth use. Conclusions: We show that the participants had a feeling of urgency that sparked their motivation to seek nonformal support in the public library. Motivations to participate in the eHealth course stemmed from the need to adapt to the digital society, being a patient or a caregiver, or the need or wish to be independent from others. Participants of the study were mainly older female adults who had native language abilities, up-to-date digital devices, and time. It is likely that other populations experience similar feelings of urgency but have other support needs. Future research should explore the needs and attitudes of nonusers and other users of digital health toward seeking support in eHealth access and use. ", doi="10.2196/60612", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60612" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65801, author="Lai, Byron and Wright, Ashley and Hutchinson, Bailey and Bright, Larsen and Young, Raven and Davis, Drew and Malik, Ali Sultan and Rimmer, H. James and ", title="School-Based Virtual Reality Programming for Obtaining Moderate-Intensity Exercise Among Children With Disabilities: Pre-Post Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="25", volume="9", pages="e65801", keywords="disability", keywords="adapted physical activity", keywords="leisure-time exercise", keywords="exercise", keywords="telehealth", keywords="tele-exercise", keywords="cerebral palsy", keywords="pediatric rehabilitation", keywords="intellectual disability", keywords="developmental disability", keywords="child", keywords="high school", keywords="mobility", keywords="mobility disability", keywords="cardio", keywords="cardiorespiratory", keywords="cardiometabolic", keywords="feasibility", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="controlled trial", keywords="t test", keywords="VR", keywords="exergame", keywords="mixed method", abstract="Background: Children have busy daily schedules, making school an ideal setting for promoting health-enhancing exercise behavior. However, children with mobility disabilities have limited exercise options to improve their cardiorespiratory fitness and cardiometabolic health. Objective: This study aims to test the feasibility of implementing a virtual reality (VR) exercise program for children with mobility disabilities in a high school setting. Methods: A pre- to posttrial single-group design with a 6-week exercise intervention was conducted at a high school. The study aimed to enroll up to 12 students with a disability. Participants were given the option of exercising at home or school. The exercise prescription was three 25-minute sessions per week at a moderate intensity, using a head-mounted VR display. School exercise sessions were supervised by research staff. Home exercise sessions were performed autonomously. Several implementation metrics of feasibility were recorded, including exercise attendance, volume, adverse events or problems, and benefits related to health-related fitness (walking endurance and hand-grip strength). The study also included a qualitative evaluation of critical implementation factors and potential benefits for participants that were not included in the study measures. Outcomes were descriptively analyzed, and 2-tailed t tests were used as appropriate. Results: In total, 10 students enrolled in the program and 9 completed the study (mean age 17, SD 0.6 y). In total, 5 (56\%) participants exercised at school, and 4 (44\%) exercised at home; 1 participant dropped out prior to exercise. The mean attendance for all 9 completers was 61.1\% (11/18 sessions). The mean exercise minutes per week was 35.5 (SD 22) minutes. The mean move minutes per session was 17.7 (SD 11) minutes. The mean minutes per session was 18 (SD 1.4) minutes for school exercisers and 17 (SD 18) minutes for home exercisers, indicating variable responses from home exercisers. The mean rating of perceived exertion per exercise session was 4.3 (SD 2), indicating a moderate intensity that ranged from low to hard intensity. No adverse events or problems were identified. No improvements in walking endurance or hand-grip strength were observed. School exercisers achieved a higher attendance rate (83\%) than home exercisers (27\%; P<.001) and seemingly had a 2-fold increase in the volume of exercise achieved (school: mean 279, SD 55 min; 95\% CI 212?347; home: mean 131, SD 170 min; 95\% CI --140 to 401; P=.10). Qualitative themes relating to implementation factors and benefits to participant well-being were identified. Conclusions: This study identified factors to inform an optimal protocol for implementing a high school--based VR exercise program for children with disabilities. Study findings demonstrated that moderate exercise at school is feasible in VR, but simply providing children with VR exergaming technology at home, without coaching, will not successfully engage them in exercise. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05935982; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05935982 ", doi="10.2196/65801", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65801" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/37160, author="Arquembourg, Jocelyne and Glaser, Philippe and Roblot, France and Metzler, Isabelle and Gallant-Dewavrin, M{\'e}lanie and Nanguem, Feutze Hugues and Mebarki, Adel and Voillot, Pam{\'e}la and Sch{\"u}ck, St{\'e}phane", title="Discussions of Antibiotic Resistance on Social Media Platforms: Text Mining and Mixed Methods Content Analysis Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="25", volume="9", pages="e37160", keywords="antibiotic ineffectiveness", keywords="antibiotic resistance", keywords="health-related quality of life", keywords="real-world", keywords="social media", keywords="quality of life", keywords="quantitative", keywords="qualitative", keywords="app", keywords="application", keywords="online", keywords="medical information", keywords="French", keywords="users", keywords="antibiotic", keywords="social media use", abstract="Background: With the increasing popularity of web 2.0 apps, social media has made it possible for individuals to post messages on antibiotic ineffectiveness. In such online conversations, patients discuss their quality of life (QoL). Social media have become key tools for finding and disseminating medical information. Objective: To identify the main themes of discussion, the difficulties encountered by patients with respect to antibiotic ineffectiveness and the impact on their QoL (physical, psychological, social, or financial). Methods: A noninterventional retrospective study was carried out by collecting social media posts in French language written by internet users mentioning their experience with antibiotics, and the impact of their ineffectiveness on their QoL. Messages posted between January 2014 and July 2020 were extracted from French-speaking publicly available online forums. Results: A total of 3773 messages were included in the analysis corpus after extraction and filtering. These messages were posted by 2335 individual web users, most of them being women around 35 years of age. Inefficacy of treatment options and the lack of information regarding the use of antibiotics were among the most discussed topics. QoL was discussed in 63\% of the 3773 messages posted. The most common is the physical impact (78\%). Patients discussed the persistence of symptoms and adverse effects. The second kind of impact is psychological (65\%), characterized by feelings of anxiety or despair about the situation. Conclusions: This social media analysis allowed us to identify a strong impact of the perceived ineffectiveness of antibiotic therapy on patients' daily life particularly in terms of physical and psychological consequences. These results provide health care experts information directly generated by patients regarding their own experiences. Social media studies constitute a complementary source of evidence that could be used to optimize messages to the public about appropriate use of antibiotics. ", doi="10.2196/37160", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e37160" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/57212, author="Elphinston, A. Rachel and Pager, Sue and Fatehi, Farhad and Sterling, Michele and Brown, Kelly and Gray, Paul and Hipper, Linda and Cahill, Lauren and Ziadni, Maisa and Worthy, Peter and Connor, P. Jason", title="Applying Patient and Health Professional Preferences in Co-Designing a Digital Brief Intervention to Reduce the Risk of Prescription Opioid--Related Harm Among Patients With Chronic Noncancer Pain: Qualitative Analysis", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="25", volume="9", pages="e57212", keywords="chronic noncancer pain", keywords="CNCP", keywords="prescription opioid use", keywords="brief intervention", keywords="brief psychological intervention", keywords="co-design", keywords="patient partners", keywords="qualitative research", keywords="digital health", abstract="Background: Few personalized behavioral treatments are available to reduce the risk of prescription opioid--related harm among patients with chronic noncancer pain. Objective: We aimed to report on the second phase of the co-design of a digital brief intervention (BI) based on patient and health professional preferences. Methods: Eligible patients with chronic noncancer pain (n=18; 10 women; mean age 49.5, SD 6.91 y) from public hospital waitlists and health professionals (n=5; 2 women; mean age 40.2, SD 5.97 y) from pain and addiction clinics completed semistructured telephone interviews or participated in focus groups exploring BI preferences, needs, and considerations for implementation. Grounded theory was used to thematically analyze the data. Results: We identified 5 themes related to intervention content from patient reports: relevance of the biopsychosocial model and need for improved awareness and pain psychology education; nonpharmacological strategies and flexibility when applying coping skills training; opioid use reflection and education, with personalized medication and tapering plans; holistic and patient-inclusive assessment measures and feedback; and inclusion of holistic goals targeting comfort and happiness. Five themes related to the process and guiding principles were identified: therapist guided; engaging features; compassionate, responsive, person-centered care; a digital solution is exciting, maximizing reach; and educate and normalize system and policy challenges. Finally, 5 themes were reflected in the health professionals' reports: digital health use is rare but desired; digital health is useful for patient monitoring and accessing support; patient motivation is important; a digital BI app is likely beneficial and at multiple care points; and safe medication use and managing pain goals. The reported barriers from health professionals were intervention intensity, potential costs, and patient responsiveness; factors facilitating the implementation were the alignment of digital BIs with clinical models, a stepped-care approach, and feedback. Conclusions: This co-design study identified key content areas, guiding principles, enabling factors, and barriers from both patients and health professionals to guide the development of digital BIs. The knowledge gathered should inform future iterations of co-designing digital BIs for the population most at risk of the harmful effects of opioid medications. ", doi="10.2196/57212", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e57212" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/71676, author="Pack, Allison and Bailey, C. Stacy and O'Conor, Rachel and Velazquez, Evelyn and Wismer, Guisselle and Yeh, Fangyu and Curtis, M. Laura and Alcantara, Kenya and Wolf, S. Michael", title="A Portal-Based Intervention (PATTERN) Designed to Support Medication Use Among Older Adults: Feasibility and Acceptability Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="24", volume="9", pages="e71676", keywords="older adults", keywords="multiple chronic conditions", keywords="polypharmacy", keywords="primary care", keywords="medication adherence", keywords="patient portal", abstract="Background: Poor medication adherence among older adults with multiple chronic conditions and polypharmacy is a public health concern stemming from distinct challenges. Prior interventions have largely used a one-size-fits-all approach or resource-intensive approaches inappropriate for busy primary care clinics. Objective: To address this, Phenotyping Adherence Through Technology-Enabled Reports and Navigation (PATTERN) was adapted from prior work. PATTERN is a portal-based intervention for monitoring self-reported medication adherence challenges among older adults in primary care. This study sought to implement and evaluate PATTERN's feasibility and acceptability. Methods: We conducted a patient randomized study with a posttest design. Primary care physicians at the participating health center were informed of the study, and approval was obtained to contact their patients. Patient eligibility included being aged 60 years or older, having prescription medications for ?8 chronic conditions, and an upcoming visit with a physician who had provided approval. Potentially eligible patients were identified using an electronic health record query, and a research coordinator phoned them to confirm eligibility, assess interest, obtain consent, and conduct enrollment. Randomization occurred following enrollment. Those randomized to PATTERN received a medication adherence assessment in their patient portal accounts several days ahead of their visit. The assessment identified whether a patient was experiencing a medication adherence challenge, and if so, the type (cognitive, psychological, medical, regimen-related, social, or economic). Identified challenges were sent to the patient's primary care physician. Assessment delivery several days ahead of a visit was thought to offer sufficient time for patients to complete it and clinicians to review any challenges. Approximately 2 weeks after visits, the coordinator recontacted participants to conduct posttest interviews. This ensured clinicians had sufficient time to respond to challenges during or after visits. Posttest interviews measured the self-reported use of the portal, demographic and health characteristics, and for those randomized to PATTERN, intervention satisfaction. Self-reported data were captured in REDCap and analyzed descriptively. Electronic health record data were also analyzed descriptively to objectively identify feasibility, that is, whether intervention arm participants completed the PATTERN assessment. Results: We enrolled 64 participants (32 received usual care, and 32 received intervention). Most were female (66\%, 42/64), not Hispanic or Latino (94\%, 60/64), and identified as White (58\%, 37/64). The average (SD) age was 75 (6.8) years. Most participants (80\%) self-reported using the patient portal ?12 times per year. However, electronic health record data revealed that less than half of all participants randomized to PATTERN (47\%, 15/32) completed the medication adherence assessment. Of those who remembered completing it, 60\% (3/5) were very satisfied with the experience and 20\% (1/5) were a little satisfied. Conclusions: PATTERN has the potential for use with older primary care patients experiencing multiple chronic conditions and polypharmacy. Yet, further adaptation is needed to ensure recipients access their patient portal accounts and complete assessments. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT05766423; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05766423 ", doi="10.2196/71676", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e71676" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64212, author="He, Xing and Bian, Jiang and Berlinski, Ariel and Guo, Yi and Simmons, Larry A. and Marshall, Alexandra S. and Greene, J. Carolyn and Brown, Hudson Rita and Turner, Jessica and Perry, T. Tamara", title="Mobile Health App for Adolescent Asthma Self-Management: Development and Usability Study of the Pulmonary Education and Knowledge Mobile Asthma Action Plan", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="24", volume="9", pages="e64212", keywords="asthma self-management", keywords="mobile health", keywords="user-centered design", keywords="usability", keywords="adolescents", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Adolescents with asthma are vulnerable to poor asthma outcomes due to inadequate self-management skills and nonadherence to medications. Mobile health (mHealth) apps have shown promise in improving asthma control, medication adherence, and self-efficacy. However, existing mHealth asthma apps lack personalization and real-time feedback and are not tailored for at-risk adolescents. Objective: This study aimed to design, develop, and test a smartphone-based mHealth Asthma Action Plan for adolescents, called Pulmonary Education and Knowledge Mobile Asthma Action Plan (PEAK-mAAP), in preparation for a large-scale randomized controlled trial. Methods: We employed user-centered design principles to develop our app, leveraging our previous work and following guidelines from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The app consists of a patient-facing mobile app and a provider-facing portal. A convenience sample of 13 adolescents (aged 12?20 years) was recruited from the Arkansas Children's Research Institute database or direct health care provider referrals. Participants underwent a task-based usability assessment followed by the System Usability Scale assessment to measure user satisfaction, interface effectiveness, and overall system usability. Results: PEAK-mAAP integrates 7 core modules supporting personalized asthma self-management, symptom monitoring, medication tracking, and real-time feedback. The mean System Usability Scale score was 83/100 (SD 5.54), indicating high user satisfaction and system usability. Notably, older adolescents (>17 years) reported higher usability scores (87.5) than younger users (77.5), suggesting potential age-related differences in app navigation and engagement. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that PEAK-mAAP is a feasible and user-friendly mHealth intervention for adolescent asthma self-management. While the high usability score reflects a positive user experience, some participants encountered initial usability challenges, highlighting the need for minor refinements and user training materials. The integration of personalized self-management tools and real-time feedback distinguishes PEAK-mAAP from existing asthma apps, addressing key barriers to adherence and engagement. Moving forward, an ongoing randomized controlled trial will assess its clinical effectiveness, long-term engagement, and impact on asthma outcomes, providing further insights into its potential as a scalable solution for adolescent asthma care. ", doi="10.2196/64212", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e64212" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70855, author="Ding, Dan and Morris, Lindsey and Novario, Gina and Fairman, Andrea and Roehrich, Kacey and Foschi Walko, Palma and Boateng, Jessica", title="Mainstream Smart Home Technology--Based Intervention to Enhance Functional Independence in Individuals With Complex Physical Disabilities: Single-Group Pre-Post Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol", year="2025", month="Apr", day="24", volume="12", pages="e70855", keywords="physical disabilities", keywords="smart home technology", keywords="assistive technology", keywords="assistive technology service delivery", keywords="functional independence", keywords="participation", keywords="occupational therapy", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="AI", abstract="Background: Mainstream smart home technologies (MSHTs), such as home automation devices and smart speakers, are becoming more powerful, affordable, and integrated into daily life. While not designed for individuals with disabilities, MSHT has the potential to serve as assistive technology to enhance their independence and participation. Objective: The study aims to describe a comprehensive MSHT-based intervention named ASSIST (Autonomy, Safety, and Social Integration via Smart Technologies) and evaluate its feasibility in enhancing the functional independence of individuals with complex physical disabilities. Methods: ASSIST is a time-limited intervention with a design based on the human activity assistive technology model, emphasizing client-centered goals and prioritizing individual needs. The intervention follows a structured assistive technology service delivery process that includes 2 assessment sessions to determine technology recommendations, installation and setup of the recommended technology, and up to 8 training sessions. An occupational therapist led the intervention, supported by a contractor and a technologist. Feasibility was evaluated through several measures: (1) the ASSIST Functional Performance Index, which quantifies the number of tasks transitioned from requiring assistance to independent completion and from higher levels of assistance or effort to lower levels; (2) pre- and postintervention measures of perceived task performance and satisfaction using a 10-point scale; (3) the number and types of tasks successfully addressed, along with the costs of devices and installation services; and (4) training effectiveness using the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS). Results: In total, 17 powered wheelchair users with complex physical disabilities completed the study with 100\% session attendance. Across participants, 127 tasks were addressed, with 2 to 10 tasks at an average cost of US \$3308 (SD US \$1192) per participant. Of these tasks, 95 (74.8\%) transitioned from requiring partial or complete assistance to independent completion, while 24 (18.9\%) either improved from requiring complete to partial assistance or, if originally performed independently, required reduced effort. Only 8 (6.3\%) tasks showed no changes. All training goals, except for 2, were achieved at or above the expected level, with a baseline average GAS score of 22.6 (SD 3.5) and a posttraining average GAS score of 77.2 (SD 4.5). Perceived task performance and satisfaction showed significant improvement, with performance score increasing from a baseline mean of 2.6 (SD 1.2) to 8.8 (SD 1.0; P<.001) and satisfaction score rising from an average of 2.9 (SD 1.3) to 9.0 (SD 0.9; P<.001). Conclusions: The ASSIST intervention demonstrated the immediate benefits of enhancing functional independence and satisfaction with MSHT among individuals with complex physical disabilities. While MSHT shows promise in addressing daily living needs at lower costs, barriers such as digital literacy, device setup, and caregiver involvement remain. Future work should focus on scalable models, caregiver engagement, and sustainable solutions for real-world implementation. ", doi="10.2196/70855", url="https://rehab.jmir.org/2025/1/e70855", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40272873" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59477, author="Hollman, Heather and Sui, Wuyou and Zhang, Haowei and Rhodes, E. Ryan", title="A Mobile Health App Informed by the Multi-Process Action Control Framework to Promote Physical Activity Among Inactive Adults: Iterative Usability Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="23", volume="9", pages="e59477", keywords="physical activity", keywords="mobile apps", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mHealth", keywords="usability study", keywords="inactive adults", keywords="smartphone", abstract="Background: Mobile health apps have high potential to address the widespread deficit in physical activity (PA); however, they have demonstrated greater impact on short-term PA compared to long-term PA. The multi-process action control (M-PAC) framework promotes sustained PA behavior by combining reflective (eg, attitudes) and regulatory (eg, planning and emotion regulation) constructs with reflexive (eg, habits and identity) constructs. Usability testing is important to determine the integrity of a mobile health app's intrinsic properties and suggestions for improvement before feasibility and efficacy testing. Objective: This study aimed to gather usability feedback from end users on a first and a second version of an M-PAC app prototype. Methods: First, 3 workshops and focus groups, with 5 adult participants per group, were conducted to obtain first impressions of the M-PAC app interface and the first 3 lessons. The findings informed several modifications to the app program (eg, added cards with reduced content) and its interface (eg, created a link placeholder image and added a forgot password feature). Subsequently, a single-group pilot usability study was conducted with 14 adults who were not meeting 150 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous PA. They used the updated M-PAC app for 2 weeks, participated in semistructured interviews, and completed the Mobile App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ) to provide usability and acceptability feedback. The focus groups and interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed with content analysis informed by usability heuristics. The MAUQ scores were analyzed descriptively. Results: Participants from the workshops and focus groups (mean age 30.40, SD9.49 years) expressed overall satisfaction with the app layout and content. The language was deemed appropriate; however, some terms (eg, self-efficacy) and acronyms (eg, frequency, intensity, time, and type) needed definitions. Participants provided several recommendations for the visual design (eg, more cards with less text). They experienced challenges in accessing and using the help module and viewing some images, and were unsure how to create or reset the password. Findings from the usability pilot study (mean age 41.38, SD12.92 years; mean moderate-to-vigorous PA 66.07, SD57.92 min/week) revealed overall satisfaction with the app layout (13/13, 100\%), content (10/13, 77\%), and language (7/11, 64\%). Suggestions included more enticing titles and additional and variable forms of content (eg, visual aids and videos). The app was easy to navigate (9/13, 69\%); however, some errors were identified, such as PA monitoring connection problems, broken links, and difficulties entering and modifying data. The mean MAUQ total and subscale scores were as follows: total=5.06 (SD1.20), usefulness=4.17 (SD1.31), ease of use=5.36 (SD1.27), and interface and satisfaction=5.52 (SD1.42). Conclusions: Overall, the M-PAC app was deemed usable and acceptable. The findings will inform the development of the minimum viable product, which will undergo subsequent feasibility testing. ", doi="10.2196/59477", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e59477" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60854, author="Rudin, S. Robert and Santacroce, M. Leah and Ganguli, Ishani and Solomon, H. Daniel", title="Tailoring Rheumatoid Arthritis Visit Timing Based on mHealth App Data: Mixed Methods Assessment of Implementation and Usability", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="21", volume="9", pages="e60854", keywords="mobile health", keywords="patient-reported outcomes", keywords="visit timing", keywords="visit frequency", keywords="rheumatoid arthritis", keywords="rheumatology", abstract="Background: Visits to medical subspecialists are common, with follow-up timing often based on heuristics rather than evidence. Unnecessary visits contribute to long wait times for new patients. Specialists could enhance visit timing and reduce frequency by systematically monitoring patients' symptoms between visits, especially for symptom-driven conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We previously designed an intervention using a mobile health (mHealth) app to collect patient-reported outcomes (PRO). One of several aims of the app was to assist rheumatologists in determining visit timing for patients with RA. The intervention did not reduce visit frequency. Objective: To explore possible reasons for the lack of association between the intervention and visit frequency, we describe app usage, assess usability, and identify barriers and facilitators for using between-visit PRO data to reduce visits when patients' symptoms are stable. Methods: We analyzed patients' use of the app by reporting adherence (percent of PRO questionnaires completed during the 12-month study) and retention (use in the last month of the study). To examine rheumatologists' experiences, we summarized views of the electronic health record (EHR)--embedded PRO dashboard and EHR inbox messages suggesting early or deferred visits. We assessed app usability using the interactive mHealth App Usability Questionnaire for Ease of Use and Usefulness for patients and the System Usability Scale for rheumatologists. We assessed rheumatologist-level effects of intervention usage using Kruskal-Wallis rank sum and equality of proportion tests. We identified barriers and facilitators through interviews and surveys. Results: The analysis included 150 patients with RA and their 11 rheumatologists. Patients answered a median of 53.3\% (IQR 34.1\%-69.2\%) of PRO questionnaires; this proportion varied by rheumatologist (range 40.7\%?67\%). Over half of the patients used the app during the final month of the study (56\%, range 51\%?65\%, by rheumatologists); the median number of months of use was 12 (IQR 9-12). Rheumatologists viewed the dashboard 78 times (17.6\% of 443 visits) with significant differences in viewing rates by rheumatologist (range 10\%?66\%; P<.01). There were 108 generated messages sent to rheumatologists suggesting a deferred visit (24.4\% of 443 visits) with significant differences in message counts received per visit by rheumatologist (range 10.8\%?22.6\%; P=.03). Rheumatologists' reported barriers to offering visit deferrals included already scheduling as far out as they were comfortable and rescheduling complexities for staff. Based on 39 patient interviews and 44 surveys, patients reported 2 main barriers to app usage: questionnaire frequency not being tailored to them and reduced motivation after not discussing PRO data with their rheumatologist. A total of 5 interviewed patients received the option to defer their visits, of which 3 elected to defer the appointment and 2 chose to keep it. Conclusions: While an mHealth app for reporting RA PROs was used frequently by patients, using these data to reduce the frequency of unneeded visits was not straightforward. Better engagement of clinicians may improve the use of PRO data. ", doi="10.2196/60854", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60854" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67855, author="Hoogendoorn, Petra and Shokralla, Mariam and Willemsen, Romy and Guldemond, Nick and Villalobos-Quesada, Mar{\'i}a", title="Compatibility of the CEN-ISO/TS 82304-2 Health App Assessment Framework With Catalan and Italian Health Authorities' Needs: Qualitative Interview Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="21", volume="9", pages="e67855", keywords="assessment frameworks", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mHealth", keywords="health apps", keywords="wellness apps", keywords="digital transformation", keywords="Italy", keywords="Catalonia", keywords="diffusion of innovations", keywords="value proposition canvas", abstract="Background: Health authorities of European Union (EU) member states are increasingly working to integrate quality health apps into their health care systems. Given the current lack of unified EU assessment criteria, the European Commission initiated Technical Specification (TS) CEN-ISO 82304-2:2021---Health and wellness apps---Quality and reliability (hereinafter the ``TS'') to address the scattered EU landscape of assessment frameworks (AFs) for health apps. The adoption of an AF, such as the TS, falls within member state competence and is considered an uncertainty-reduction process. Evaluations by peers as well as ensuring the compatibility of the TS with the needs of health authorities can reduce uncertainty and mediate harmonization. Objective: This study aims to examine the compatibility of the TS with the needs of Catalan and Italian health authorities. Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted with key informants from a regional (Catalonia in Spain) and national (Italy) health authority, and a thematic analysis was carried out. Main themes were established deductively, following the aspects defined by the value proposition canvas: (1) health authorities' needs (``gains,'' ``pains,'' and ``jobs'') and (2) the TS ``products and services'' and their distinct characteristics (``gain creators'' and ``pain relievers''). Subthemes were generated inductively. The compatibility of the needs with the TS was theoretically determined by the researchers. The results were visualized using the value proposition canvas. Two participant validation steps confirmed that the most relevant aspects of the predefined themes had been captured. Results: Despite the diversity of the 2 health authorities, subthemes were common and categorized into 9 gains, 9 pains, and 11 jobs. Key findings include the health authorities' perceived value of, and need for, integrating quality health apps and using an AF (gains), along with the related policy, implementation, and operational activities (jobs). The lack of enabling EU legislation and standardization, resulting in a need for the multiple authorities involved to consent, made achieving an AF challenging (pains). Nine products and services related to the TS and 17 distinct characteristics (eg, its multistakeholder evidence base) were found to be compatible with 3 gains (eg, stimulating the prescription and use of apps), 7 pains (eg, legislation and harmonization issues), and 6 jobs (eg, assessing apps). Indirect effects, 3 anticipated future services, and 1 anticipated gain creator and pain reliever increase this compatibility. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the health authorities share common fundamental needs, and that the TS is compatible with these needs. The identified needs and compatibility can potentially reduce peer authorities' uncertainties in adopting an AF in general and the TS in particular. More research is recommended to confirm and translate our results in other contexts and further fine-tune compatibility to achieve wide adoption of the TS and accelerate the uptake of health apps. ", doi="10.2196/67855", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67855" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/58095, author="Benavent, Diego and Iniesta-Chamorro, M. Jose and Novella-Navarro, Marta and P{\'e}rez-Mart{\'i}nez, Miguel and Mart{\'i}nez-S{\'a}nchez, Nuria and Kaffati, M{\'o}nica and Ju{\'a}rez-Garc{\'i}a, Manuel and Molinari-P{\'e}rez, Marina and Gonz{\'a}lez-Torbay, Andrea and Guti{\'e}rrez, Mariana and L{\'o}pez-Juanes, Natalia and Navarro-Comp{\'a}n, Victoria and Monjo-Henry, Irene and Rodr{\'i}guez-Rosales, Germ{\'a}n and Bachiller, Javier and Calvo-Aranda, Enrique and Michelena, Xabier and Berbel-Arcob{\'e}, Laura and Balsa, Alejandro and and G{\'o}mez, J. Enrique and Plasencia-Rodr{\'i}guez, Chamaida", title="Digital Health Intervention for Patient Monitoring in Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases: Cocreation and Feasibility Study of the IMIDoc Platform", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="Apr", day="21", volume="12", pages="e58095", keywords="immune-mediated inflammatory diseases", keywords="cocreation", keywords="health care provider", keywords="digital health solution", keywords="inflammatory", keywords="inflammatory disease", keywords="monitoring", keywords="care model", keywords="patient care", keywords="development", keywords="app", keywords="user centered", keywords="patient monitoring", keywords="decision-making", keywords="user needs", abstract="Background: Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis, pose challenges due to recurrent flares and gaps in patient monitoring. Traditional health care models often fail to capture disease progression effectively. Objective: This study aimed to describes the structured cocreation of the IMIDoc platform, an interdisciplinary initiative aimed at improving patient monitoring, education, and health care provider decision-making. Methods: IMIDoc was cocreated through an interdisciplinary team involving clinical experts, biomedical engineers, and technical developers, using user-centered design principles. The development process included the identification of unmet clinical needs, user-centered app design, implementation of medication management features, patient data recording capabilities, and educational content. A 3-month feasibility and functionality testing was performed to evaluate the usability and technical performance of the apption. Results: During the feasibility testing, 111 entries were logged for the patient mobile app, comprising 76 errors identified and corrected, 16 improvements addressing functionality, usability, and performance, and 10 evolutionary suggestions. The professional interface received 45 entries, identifying 40 errors and 5 evolutionary suggestions. Ten iterative updates significantly enhanced the user interface intuitiveness and medication reminder functionality, aligning the solution closely with clinical workflows and user needs. Conclusions: The IMIDoc platform, developed by a multidisciplinary cocreation methodology, shows potential to improve the management of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases ithrough enhanced communication and monitoring. A multicenter clinical study with 360 patients across 5 Spanish hospitals will further evaluate its impact. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06273306; https://tinyurl.com/4t6ubcsf ", doi="10.2196/58095", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e58095" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68891, author="Seo, Woosuk and Li, Jiaqi and Zhang, Zhan and Zheng, Chuxuan and Singh, Hardeep and Pasupathy, Kalyan and Mahajan, Prashant and Park, Young Sun", title="Designing Health Care Provider--Centered Emergency Department Interventions: Participatory Design Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="21", volume="9", pages="e68891", keywords="emergency departments", keywords="participatory design", keywords="health care providers", keywords="technology", keywords="interventions", keywords="artificial intelligence", abstract="Background: In the emergency department (ED), health care providers face extraordinary pressures in delivering accurate diagnoses and care, often working with fragmented or inaccessible patient histories while managing severe time constraints and constant interruptions. These challenges and pressures may lead to potential errors in the ED diagnostic process and risks to patient safety. With advances in technology, interventions have been developed to support ED providers in such pressured settings. However, these interventions may not align with the current practices of ED providers. To better design ED provider--centered interventions, identifying their needs in the diagnostic process is critical. Objective: This study aimed to identify ED providers' needs in the diagnostic process through participatory design sessions and to propose design guidelines for provider?centered technological interventions that support decision?making and reduce errors. Methods: We conducted a participatory design study with ED providers to validate their needs and identify considerations for designing ED provider--centered interventions to improve diagnostic safety. We used 9 technological intervention ideas as storyboards to address the study participants' needs. We had participants discuss the use cases of each intervention idea to assess their needs during the ED care process and facilitated co-design activities with the participants to improve the technological intervention designs. We audio- and video-recorded the design sessions. We then analyzed session transcripts, field notes, and design sketches. In total, we conducted 6 design sessions with 17 ED frontline providers. Results: Through design sessions with ED providers, we identified 4 key needs in the diagnostic process: information integration, patient prioritization, ED provider-patient communication, and care coordination. We interpreted them as insights for designing technological interventions for ED patients. Hence, we discussed the design implications for technological interventions in four key areas: (1) enhancing ED provider--ED provider communication, (2) enhancing ED provider-patient communication, (3) optimizing the integration of advanced technology, and (4) unleashing the potential of artificial intelligence tools in the ED to improve diagnosis. This work offers evidence-based technology design suggestions for improving diagnostic processes. Conclusions: This study provides unique insights for designing technological interventions to support ED diagnostic processes. By inviting ED providers into the design process, we present unique insights into the diagnostic process and design considerations for designing novel technological interventions that meet ED providers' needs in the diagnostic process. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/55357 ", doi="10.2196/68891", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68891" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66791, author="Ristow, Nele and Wilke, Annika and Skudlik, Christoph and John, Malte Swen and Ludewig, Michaela", title="User Experience of and Adherence to a Smartphone App to Maintain Behavior Change and Self-Management in Patients With Work-Related Skin Diseases: Multistep, Single-Arm Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="18", volume="9", pages="e66791", keywords="user experience", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mHealth", keywords="app", keywords="smartphone", keywords="complex intervention", keywords="Template for Intervention Description and Replication", keywords="behavior change techniques", keywords="behavior change", keywords="skin diseases", keywords="occupational dermatology", keywords="artificial intelligence", abstract="Background: Smartphone apps are a growing field supporting the prevention of chronic diseases. The user experience (UX) is an important predictor of app use and should be considered in mobile health research. Long-term skin protection behavior is important for those with work-related skin diseases. However, altering health behavior is complex and requires a high level of self-management. We developed a maintenance program consisting of the Mein Hautschutz im Alltag (MiA; ``My skin protection in everyday life'') app combined with an individual face-to-face goal-setting interview to support patients in the implementation of skin protection behavior after inpatient rehabilitation. Objective: The objectives of this paper are to (1) describe the intervention in a standardized manner; (2) evaluate the UX, subjective quality, and perceived impact of the MiA app; and (3) evaluate the adherence to the MiA app. Methods: We followed a user-centered and multistage iterative process in 2 steps that combined qualitative and quantitative data. The maintenance program was tested over 12 weeks after discharge from rehabilitation. The UX, subjective quality, and perceived impact were evaluated formatively based on the user version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale after 12 weeks (T2). Adherence was measured using the frequency of interactions with the app. Results: In total, 42 patients took part (with a dropout rate of n=18, 43\% at T2). The average age was 49.5 (SD 13.1) years, and 57\% (24/42) were male. We found high ratings for the UX, with an average score of 80.18 (SD 8.94) out of a theoretical maximum of 100, but there were a few exceptions in the usability and interaction with the app. The app was most frequently rated with 4 out of 5 stars (15/24, 65\%), which indicates a high subjective quality. Furthermore, the app seemed to influence important determinants to implement skin protection behavior. Adherence to skin protection tracking was higher over the study period than adherence to skin documentation and goal assessment. The number of adherent participants to skin protection tracking was higher in the skin care and skin cleansing categories (28/42, 67\% each) compared to the skin protection category (13/42, 31\%) on day 1 and decreased until day 84 in all dimensions (12/42, 29\% each for skin care and skin cleansing; 9/42, 21\% for skin protection). Conclusions: The results in terms of adherence met the expectations and were consistent with those of other studies evaluating the use of apps for chronic diseases. Interaction with the app could be increased using artificial intelligence to determine eczema severity via photos. It should be investigated which subgroups have difficulties with usability to individualize the support to a greater degree during onboarding. There is a need for further research regarding the effectiveness of the MiA app on skin protection behavior, quality of life, and eczema severity. ", doi="10.2196/66791", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66791" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65670, author="Weisman, Dan and Sugarman, Alanna and Huang, Ming Yue and Gelberg, Lillian and Ganz, A. Patricia and Comulada, Scott Warren", title="Development of a GPT-4--Powered Virtual Simulated Patient and Communication Training Platform for Medical Students to Practice Discussing Abnormal Mammogram Results With Patients: Multiphase Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="17", volume="9", pages="e65670", keywords="standardized patient", keywords="virtual simulated patient", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="AI", keywords="large language model", keywords="LLM", keywords="GPT-4", keywords="agent", keywords="communication skills training", keywords="abnormal mammography results", keywords="biopsy", abstract="Background: Standardized patients (SPs) prepare medical students for difficult conversations with patients. Despite their value, SP-based simulation training is constrained by available resources and competing clinical demands. Researchers are turning to artificial intelligence and large language models, such as generative pretrained transformers, to create communication training that incorporates virtual simulated patients (VSPs). GPT-4 is a large language model advance allowing developers to design virtual simulation scenarios using text-based prompts instead of relying on branching path simulations with prescripted dialogue. These nascent developmental practices have not taken root in the literature to guide other researchers in developing their own simulations. Objective: This study aims to describe our developmental process and lessons learned for creating a GPT-4--driven VSP. We designed the VSP to help medical student learners rehearse discussing abnormal mammography results with a patient as a primary care physician (PCP). We aimed to assess GPT-4's ability to generate appropriate VSP responses to learners during spoken conversations and provide appropriate feedback on learner performance. Methods: A research team comprised of physicians, a medical student, an educator, an SP program director, a learning experience designer, and a health care researcher conducted the study. A formative phase with in-depth knowledge user interviews informed development, followed by a development phase to create the virtual training module. The team conducted interviews with 5 medical students, 5 PCPs, and 5 breast cancer survivors. They then developed a VSP using simulation authoring software and provided the GPT-4--enabled VSP with an initial prompt consisting of a scenario description, emotional state, and expectations for learner dialogue. It was iteratively refined through an agile design process involving repeated cycles of testing, documenting issues, and revising the prompt. As an exploratory feature, the simulation used GPT-4 to provide written feedback to learners about their performance communicating with the VSP and their adherence to guidelines for difficult conversations. Results: In-depth interviews helped establish the appropriate timing, mode of communication, and protocol for conversations between PCPs and patients during the breast cancer screening process. The scenario simulated a telephone call between a physician and patient to discuss the abnormal results of a diagnostic mammogram that that indicated a need for a biopsy. Preliminary testing was promising. The VSP asked sensible questions about their mammography results and responded to learner inquiries using a voice replete with appropriate emotional inflections. GPT-4 generated performance feedback that successfully identified strengths and areas for improvement using relevant quotes from the learner-VSP conversation, but it occasionally misidentified learner adherence to communication protocols. Conclusions: GPT-4 streamlined development and facilitated more dynamic, humanlike interactions between learners and the VSP compared to branching path simulations. For the next steps, we will pilot-test the VSP with medical students to evaluate its feasibility and acceptability. ", doi="10.2196/65670", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65670" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65185, author="Zeitlin, Anya and Mathenjwa, Thulile and Zuma, Thembelihle and Wyke, Sally and Matthews, Philippa and McGrath, Nuala and Seeley, Janet and Shahmanesh, Maryam and Blandford, Ann", title="Creating a Usable and Effective Digital Intervention to Support Men to Test for HIV and Link to Care in A Resource-Constrained Setting: Iterative Design Based on A Person-Based Approach and Human Computer Interaction Methods", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="17", volume="9", pages="e65185", keywords="person-based approach", keywords="HIV", keywords="resource-constrained settings", keywords="digital intervention", keywords="user-centered design", keywords="behavior change techniques", keywords="digital health", abstract="Background: It is challenging to design usable and effective digital health interventions (DHIs). The person-based approach (PBA) has been proposed to incorporate users' perspectives for the design of DHIs. However, it does not explicitly describe the iterative stages of design and evaluation that are essential in moving from early planning to deployment. For this, we draw on methods from human computer interaction (HCI) that have been developed for various situations. Objective: This study aimed to reflect on the adaptation and synthesis of PBA and HCI approaches to developing DHIs. We present a case study applying both approaches to develop Empowering People through Informed Choices for HIV (EPIC-HIV1), a DHI designed for men living in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, intended to support them in making an informed choice about whether to take an HIV test and, if necessary, engage in care. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of the documentation generated during the development of EPIC-HIV1 including findings about requirements, design representations, and the results of iterative rounds of testing. We developed an account of the process, the outcomes, and the strengths and limitations of the design and evaluation techniques applied. We also present the design of EPIC-HIV1 and summarize considerations when designing for hard-to-reach people in such settings. Results: The PBA was applied to deliver a first prototype. This helped identify key messages to convey and how to manage issues such as user privacy, but the resulting prototype was judged by the team not to be engaging for potential users, and it was unclear whether the design was inclusive of people with low digital or health literacy. We therefore introduced methods from HCI to iteratively test and refine the app. Working with local community representatives, we conducted four refinement cycles with 29 participants, adapting and retesting the app until no further changes were needed. Key changes included making it clearer what the consequences of selecting options in the app were and changing wording to minimize misconceptions (eg, that the app would test for HIV) while addressing common concerns about testing and emphasizing long-term benefits of engaging with care, if needed. Conclusions: Techniques for developing DHIs need to be situationally appropriate. The PBA enabled us to establish both empirical data and theory to design the content of EPIC-HIV1, but it did not directly inform interaction design to make the app usable and effective for the intended users; HCI techniques tailored to the setting enabled us to refine the app to be easy for men with little familiarity with digital technologies to use within the constraints of the setting. Iterative testing ensured the app was easy to use and that the intended clinical messages were communicated effectively. ", doi="10.2196/65185", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65185", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40244652" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65986, author="Murray, M. Regan and Chiang, C. Shawn and Klassen, C. Ann and Manganello, A. Jennifer and Leader, E. Amy and Lo, Wen-Juo and Massey, M. Philip", title="Developing an Online Community Advisory Board (CAB) of Parents From Social Media to Co-Design an Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Intervention: Participatory Research Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e65986", keywords="online community advisory boards", keywords="community engagement", keywords="social media", keywords="digital health", keywords="digital health intervention", keywords="HPV vaccine", keywords="human papillomavirus", keywords="HPV", keywords="parent health", keywords="child health", abstract="Background: Social media health interventions have grown significantly in recent years. However, researchers are still developing innovative methods to meaningfully engage online communities to inform research activities. Little has been documented describing this approach of using online community advisory boards (CABs) to co-create health communication interventions on social media. Objective: This study describes the formation, engagement, and maintenance of an online CAB focused on co-creating a health education intervention for parents regarding the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The study provides guiding principles for public health researchers implementing such CABs in future digital health interventions. Methods: In May 2020, Twitter was used to recruit parents of children aged 9?14 years, who were active users of the platform and were interested in serving on a CAB focused on child health and online programs. The recruitment campaign included Twitter (rebranded as X in 2023) advertising tools (eg, ``interests'' and ``audience look-a-likes''). A total of 17 parents completed a screening survey and 6 completed a follow-up phone interview. Following phone interviews, 6 parents were invited to join the CAB, where they committed to a 1-year involvement. The CAB participated in eleven 1-hour online meetings in the first year, contributing to monthly feedback through participatory workbooks. Long-term engagement was sustained through icebreakers and casual online interactions, as well as providing real-time updates to demonstrate CAB feedback integration. An anonymous midterm evaluation was conducted at the end of the project's first year to assess processes and identify future growth opportunities. Results: A total of 6 parents (5 females and 1 male) with children aged 9-14 years from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds (African American, South Asian American, and White) across 6 states in the United States, representing urban, suburban, and rural areas, agreed to serve as CAB members. All 6 CAB members committed to 1 year of service beginning in July 2020 with 4 extending their participation into a second year (August 2021-August 2022). The CAB provided expert insights and feedback to co-develop the intervention, including character development, narrative content creation, study recruitment, survey development, and intervention delivery. The midterm evaluation showed 100\% (6/6) satisfaction among CAB members, who valued the connections with other parents and their contribution to research. While all members felt confident discussing HPV, 83\% (5/6) suggested diversifying the group and increasing informal bonding to enhance engagement and inclusivity, especially for differing vaccination views. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that online CABs are a highly effective model for co-creating and informing online health communication interventions. The engagement of parents from diverse backgrounds and the structured use of online tools (eg, interactive workbooks) creates a constructive and thoughtful environment for incorporating parent contributions to research. This study highlights guiding principles to forming, engaging, and maintaining an online CAB to enhance health research and practice. ", doi="10.2196/65986", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65986" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67835, author="Sanjeewa, Ruvini and Iyer, Ravi and Apputhurai, Pragalathan and Wickramasinghe, Nilmini and Meyer, Denny", title="Machine Learning Approach to Identifying Empathy Using the Vocals of Mental Health Helpline Counselors: Algorithm Development and Validation", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e67835", keywords="vocal features", keywords="voice characteristics", keywords="empathy", keywords="mental health care", keywords="crisis helpline service", abstract="Background: This research study aimed to detect the vocal features immersed in empathic counselor speech using samples of calls to a mental health helpline service. Objective: This study aimed to produce an algorithm for the identification of empathy from these features, which could act as a training guide for counselors and conversational agents who need to transmit empathy in their vocals. Methods: Two annotators with a psychology background and English heritage provided empathy ratings for 57 calls involving female counselors, as well as multiple short call segments within each of these calls. These ratings were found to be well-correlated between the 2 raters in a sample of 6 common calls. Using vocal feature extraction from call segments and statistical variable selection methods, such as L1 penalized LASSO (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator) and forward selection, a total of 14 significant vocal features were associated with empathic speech. Generalized additive mixed models (GAMM), binary logistics regression with splines, and random forest models were used to obtain an algorithm that differentiated between high- and low-empathy call segments. Results: The binary logistics regression model reported higher predictive accuracies of empathy (area under the curve [AUC]=0.617, 95\% CI 0.613?0.622) compared to the GAMM (AUC=0.605, 95\% CI 0.601?0.609) and the random forest model (AUC=0.600, 95\% CI 0.595?0.604). This difference was statistically significant, as evidenced by the nonoverlapping 95\% CIs obtained for AUC. The DeLong test further validated these results, showing a significant difference in the binary logistic model compared to the random forest (D=6.443, df=186283, P<.001) and GAMM (Z=5.846, P<.001). These findings confirm that the binary logistic regression model outperforms the other 2 models concerning predictive accuracy for empathy classification. Conclusions: This study suggests that the identification of empathy from vocal features alone is challenging, and further research involving multimodal models (eg, models incorporating facial expression, words used, and vocal features) are encouraged for detecting empathy in the future. This study has several limitations, including a relatively small sample of calls and only 2 empathy raters. Future research should focus on accommodating multiple raters with varied backgrounds to explore these effects on perceptions of empathy. Additionally, considering counselor vocals from larger, more heterogeneous populations, including mixed-gender samples, will allow an exploration of the factors influencing the level of empathy projected in counselor voices more generally. ", doi="10.2196/67835", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67835" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65555, author="Crocamo, Cristina and Cioni, Matteo Riccardo and Canestro, Aurelia and Nasti, Christian and Palpella, Dario and Piacenti, Susanna and Bartoccetti, Alessandra and Re, Martina and Simonetti, Valentina and Barattieri di San Pietro, Chiara and Bulgheroni, Maria and Bartoli, Francesco and Carr{\`a}, Giuseppe", title="Acoustic and Natural Language Markers for Bipolar Disorder: A Pilot, mHealth Cross-Sectional Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e65555", keywords="digital mental health", keywords="remote assessment", keywords="mHealth", keywords="speech", keywords="NLP", keywords="natural language processing", keywords="acoustic", keywords="symptom severity", keywords="machine learning", keywords="markers", keywords="mental health", keywords="bipolar disorders", keywords="app", keywords="applications", keywords="multimodal", keywords="mobile health", keywords="voice", keywords="vocal", keywords="bipolar", keywords="verbal", keywords="emotion", keywords="emotional", keywords="psychiatry", keywords="psychiatric", keywords="mental illness", abstract="Background: Monitoring symptoms of bipolar disorder (BD) is a challenge faced by mental health services. Speech patterns are crucial in assessing the current experiences, emotions, and thought patterns of people with BD. Natural language processing (NLP) and acoustic signal processing may support ongoing BD assessment within a mobile health (mHealth) framework. Objective: Using both acoustic and NLP-based features from the speech of people with BD, we built an app-based tool and tested its feasibility and performance to remotely assess the individual clinical status. Methods: We carried out a pilot, observational study, sampling adults diagnosed with BD from the caseload of the Nord Milano Mental Health Trust (Italy) to explore the relationship between selected speech features and symptom severity and to test their potential to remotely assess mental health status. Symptom severity assessment was based on clinician ratings, using the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and Montgomery-{\AA}sberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) for manic and depressive symptoms, respectively. Leveraging a digital health tool embedded in a mobile app, which records and processes speech, participants self-administered verbal performance tasks. Both NLP-based and acoustic features were extracted, testing associations with mood states and exploiting machine learning approaches based on random forest models. Results: We included 32 subjects (mean [SD] age 49.6 [14.3] years; 50\% [16/32] females) with a MADRS median (IQR) score of 13 (21) and a YMRS median (IQR) score of 5 (16). Participants freely managed the digital environment of the app, without perceiving it as intrusive and reporting an acceptable system usability level (average score 73.5, SD 19.7). Small-to-moderate correlations between speech features and symptom severity were uncovered, with sex-based differences in predictive capability. Higher latency time ($\rho$=0.152), increased silences ($\rho$=0.416), and vocal perturbations correlated with depressive symptomatology. Pressure of speech based on the mean intraword time ($\rho$=--0.343) and lower voice instability based on jitter-related parameters ($\rho$ ranging from --0.19 to --0.27) were detected for manic symptoms. However, a higher contribution of NLP-based and conversational features, rather than acoustic features, was uncovered, especially for predictive models for depressive symptom severity (NLP-based: R2=0.25, mean squared error [MSE]=110.07, mean absolute error [MAE]=8.17; acoustics: R2=0.11, MSE=133.75, MAE=8.86; combined: R2=0.16; MSE=118.53, MAE=8.68). Conclusions: Remotely collected speech patterns, including both linguistic and acoustic features, are associated with symptom severity levels and may help differentiate clinical conditions in individuals with BD during their mood state assessments. In the future, multimodal, smartphone-integrated digital ecological momentary assessments could serve as a powerful tool for clinical purposes, remotely complementing standard, in-person mental health evaluations. ", doi="10.2196/65555", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65555" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67885, author="Sidhu, Amrita and Shegog, Ross and Craig-Rushing, Stephanie and Trevino, Nicole and Singer, Michelle and Jessen, Cornelia and Gorman, Gwenda and Simpson, Sean and Peskin, Melissa and Hernandez, Belinda and Markham, Christine", title="Using the Healthy Native Youth Implementation Toolbox to Provide Web-Based Adolescent Health Promotion Decision Support to American Indian and Alaska Native Communities: Implementation Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e67885", keywords="implementation", keywords="culturally relevant program", keywords="evidence-based health promotion", keywords="user engagement", keywords="reach", keywords="decision support system", keywords="American Indian", keywords="Alaska", keywords="native communities", keywords="youth", keywords="adolescent", keywords="decision support", keywords="Alaska native", keywords="health inequities", keywords="sexual", keywords="reproductive", keywords="mental health", keywords="AI/AN", keywords="Tribal organization", keywords="Google Analytics", keywords="toolbox", abstract="Background: American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth experience numerous health inequities, including those in sexual, reproductive, and mental health. Implementation of culturally relevant, age-appropriate evidence-based programs may mitigate these inequities. However, numerous barriers limit the adoption and implementation of evidence-based adolescent health promotion programs in AI/AN communities. Objective: This study examines user reach and engagement from 2022 to 2024 of web-based decision support (the Healthy Native Youth [HNY] website and the embedded HNY Implementation Toolbox), designed to increase the implementation of evidence-based adolescent health promotion programming in AI/AN communities. Methods: Promotional strategies were designed for optimal geographic reach to Tribal organizations, opinion leaders, federal decision makers, and funders. Promotional channels included grassroots, community, and professional networks. We used Google Analytics to examine the uptake of the HNY website and HNY Implementation Toolbox from January 2022 to January 2024. The Toolbox provides culturally relevant tools and templates to help users navigate through 5 phases of program adoption and implementation: Gather, Choose, Prepare, Implement, and Grow. User reach was estimated by demographic characteristics and geographic location; user engagement was estimated by visit frequency and duration, bounce rates, and frequency of page and tool access. Results: Over the study period, page views of the HNY website and HNY Toolbox increased 10-fold and 27-fold, respectively. Over the 2-year evaluation period since the Toolbox ``go live'' date, approximately 1 in 8 users of the HNY website visited the Toolbox. The majority of HNY website users were located in Washington (n=1515), California (n=1290), and Oregon (n=1019) and were aged between 18 and 24 (n=1559, 21.7\%) and 25?34 (n=1676, 23.29\%) years. Toolbox users were primarily located in California (n=1238), Washington (n=1142), and Oregon (n=986), mostly aged between 35 and 44 years (n=444, 35\%). Both website and Toolbox users were primarily female, who accessed the site and Toolbox via desktop computers. The most frequently accessed phase pages within the Implementation Toolbox were Gather, Choose, Implement, and Prepare, as supported by bounce rates and average time on page. The most viewed phase was the ``Gather'' phase, with 3278 views. The most frequently downloaded tools within the Toolbox were Gather: Community Needs and Resource Assessment, with 136 downloads. The phases and tools accessed may have differed based on the user's goal or stage of implementation. Conclusions: Findings indicate positive initial reach and engagement of the HNY website and HNY Implementation Toolbox among AI/AN educators that has consistently increased over the 2 years. The provision of web-based decision support that guides AI/AN users through the adoption, implementation, and maintenance of culturally relevant, age-appropriate, evidence-based adolescent health promotion programs in their communities may help increase the implementation of effective adolescent health promotion programs to ultimately increase health equity among AI/AN youth. ", doi="10.2196/67885", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67885" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/56586, author="Tan, Orejana Josephine Rose and Neal, P. David and Vilmen, Maria and Boersma, Petra and Ettema, P. Teake and Gobbens, J. Robbert J. and Sikkes, M. Sietske A. and Dr{\"o}es, Rose-Marie", title="A Digital Photo Activity Intervention for Nursing Home Residents With Dementia and Their Carers: Mixed Methods Process Evaluation", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e56586", keywords="dementia", keywords="psychosocial interventions", keywords="nursing home", keywords="process evaluation", keywords="social interaction", keywords="photos", keywords="art", abstract="Background: Within the framework of a randomized controlled trial investigating the impact of a digital, psychosocial photo activity intervention for residents living with dementia in nursing homes and their informal and formal carers, a process evaluation was conducted to determine factors that affected the implementation of the intervention and potentially influenced the intervention outcomes. Objective: By tracing facilitators and barriers to implementation, the study also aimed to inform future implementation of the photo activity intervention. Methods: Following Medical Research Council guidance, mixed methods were used to investigate context, implementation, and mechanism-of-impact factors during the photo activity intervention via the Fotoscope web application versus a general conversation activity (control). Google Analytics was set up to gain insight into how the Fotoscope web application was used in practice. For quantitative data, descriptive statistics were calculated and differences between groups tested. For qualitative data, thematic analysis was performed. Results: In total, 163 semistructured interviews were conducted with residents (photo activity group: n=29, 17.8\%; control: n=29, 17.8\%), formal carers (photo activity group: n=23, 14.1\%; control: n=27, 16.6\%), and informal carers (photo activity group: n=28, 17.2\%; control: n=27, 16.6\%). Regarding contextual factors, a minority of formal carers in both groups (photo activity group: 4/18, 22\%; control: 9/24, 38\%) mentioned time and workload as barriers to implementing the intervention. Regarding implementation, 86\% (25/29) of the residents in the intervention group felt that the digital photo activity worked well on a tablet. Informal carers from both groups wanted more intervention updates from formal carers. The majority of formal carers from both groups were satisfied with how the training and activities were implemented. Regarding the mechanisms of impact, residents in the photo activity group (27/29, 93\%) felt significantly more positive about the conversations with their carer (U=533.0, z=2.865, r=0.39; P=.004). Formal carers in the photo activity group (20/23, 87\%) got to know the resident better (U=390.5, z=2.114, r=0.302; P=.04) compared to the formal carers in the control group (21/27, 78\%). Formal carers in the photo activity group (23/50, 46\%) gave a significantly higher rating to the digital photo activity as a way of getting to know the resident living with dementia better (median 9.00, IQR 7-9; U=419.0, z=2.169, r=0.307; P=.03) compared to formal carers in the control group (27/50, 54\%; median 8.00, IQR 6-8). Finally, the majority of formal carers in the photo activity group (14/18, 78\%) agreed that the Fotoscope app can be used as part of care activities in the nursing home. Conclusions: The work invested by formal carers in implementing the photo activity did not seem to differ greatly compared to implementing a general conversation activity, suggesting that the digital photo activity, as an easy-to-implement and enjoyable intervention, could be widely implemented and disseminated in nursing homes. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-021-02632-w ", doi="10.2196/56586", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e56586" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69242, author="Brown, Marie Jacqueline and Rita, Nicholas and Franco-Arellano, Beatriz and LeSage, Ann and Arcand, Joanne", title="Evaluation of a Curriculum-Based Nutrition Education Intervention Protocol in Elementary Schools: Nonrandomized Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e69242", keywords="nutrition education", keywords="serious games", keywords="children", keywords="food literacy", keywords="school nutrition intervention", keywords="feasibility", abstract="Background: Improving children's food literacy through school-based interventions can support developing healthy eating habits. However, teachers lack appropriate resources, time, and training to provide nutrition education in schools. Serious games, which are games designed for a purpose other than entertainment, have been demonstrated to improve children's food literacy and dietary intake and can address the barriers teachers face in providing nutrition education. Foodbot Factory (Arcand Lab) is a nutrition education intervention that is aligned with curricula and uses a serious game to provide nutrition education to students. Further evidence is needed to understand how serious games, including Foodbot Factory, can be researched in schools to support nutrition education. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a research study protocol that implements the curriculum-based nutrition education intervention Foodbot Factory into a real-world classroom setting. The evaluation of the protocol included study processes, resources, and management feasibility outcomes, as well as a preliminary assessment of scientific outcomes relevant to the intervention. Methods: A nonrandomized study determined the feasibility of intervention implementation. Grade 4 and 4/5 classrooms were assigned to have nutrition education lessons for 5 days with either the Foodbot Factory or a control intervention. Outcomes were assessed in 4 feasibility domains of study processes (eg, recruitment and attrition rates), resources (eg, time taken to deliver the intervention), and management (eg, challenges with intervention delivery), and a preliminary assessment of scientific outcomes pertaining to the acceptability and impacts of the interventions. These outcomes were captured in semistructured field notes completed by study staff and a Nutrition Attitudes and Knowledge questionnaire and acceptability questionnaire completed by participants. Data were analyzed descriptively and using a paired t test to assess within-group changes in nutrition knowledge. Results: In total, 4 classrooms participated in the feasibility study, with varying recruitment rates for schools (3/20, 15\%), classrooms (4/4, 100\%), parents (54/102, 53\%), and children (49/54, 91\%). The time required to implement the research protocol, including data collection and lesson plans, was sufficient and management of the intervention implementation was overall successful. Some challenges were experienced with classroom management during data collection, specifically with electronic data collection. After the intervention, participants reported a positive affective experience (26/41, 63\%) and learning something new about healthy eating (31/41, 76\%). Participants in both study groups improved their nutrition knowledge, but the changes were not statistically significant. The Foodbot Factory group had a statistically significant improvement in their knowledge of vegetables and fruit (P=.04) and protein foods (P=.03). Conclusions: These findings indicate that the study protocol is feasible to implement and evaluate Foodbot Factory in a representative sample with select modifications to improve recruitment and data collection procedures. ", doi="10.2196/69242", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69242" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67637, author="Schmied, Emily and Hurtado, Lauren and Robinson, Ken W. and Simon-Arndt, M. Cynthia and Moyer III, Richard and Wilson, Leslie and Reed, Mark and Blakey, M. Shannon and Kan, Marni", title="Evaluating the Acceptability of a Brief Web-Based Alcohol Misuse Prevention Program Among US Military Cadets: Mixed Methods Formative Evaluation", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e67637", keywords="alcohol misuse prevention", keywords="digital interventions", keywords="formative research", keywords="military health", keywords="acceptability", keywords="alcohol prevention", keywords="US military", keywords="military", keywords="United States", keywords="formative evaluation", keywords="alcohol use", keywords="evidence-based prevention", keywords="alcohol intervention", keywords="mixed methods study", keywords="survey", keywords="alcohol use disorder", keywords="alcohol misuse", keywords="heavy drinker", keywords="educational web-based intervention", keywords="web-based intervention", abstract="Background: As alcohol misuse remains pervasive within the military, evidence-based prevention programs that are feasible to implement and appropriately tailored to meet the needs and norms of military personnel are critically needed. Further, programs that target future military leaders, such as trainees, recruits, and cadets, may be especially impactful. eCHECKUP TO GO is a web-based, evidence-based brief alcohol intervention designed to reduce alcohol misuse through education and personalized feedback that may be suitable for military trainees. However, because it was developed for civilian students, efforts to adapt the content for military settings are needed. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the acceptability of a military version of eCHECKUP TO GO, tailored to include military-specific terminology and alcohol use statistics. Methods: US Air Force Academy cadets were recruited to participate in a single-arm, mixed methods study. Following the completion of eCHECKUP TO GO, participants completed a survey that assessed satisfaction with specific aspects of the user experience, including ease of use, design, and relevance of the information and personalized feedback (range: 1=strongly disagree to 7=strongly agree). A subset of cadets also participated in a focus group to expound on the survey responses. Results: Survey participants included 22 cadets (n=12, 55\% male; mean age 19.6, SD 1.8 years). In addition, 6 (27\%) cadets participated in the focus group. Participants were satisfied with the program overall (mean 5.8, SD 0.9) and gave the highest ratings to ease of use (mean 6.6, SD 0.7), site design (mean 6.5, SD 0.6), and site interactivity (mean 6.4, SD 1.0). Items pertaining to tailoring, relevance, and amount of content specific to cadets scored lowest (mean 5.8, SD 1.4; mean 5.6, SD 1.4; and mean 5.5, SD 1.5, respectively). Most (n=15, 68\%) participants said they would act upon the information they were provided. Focus group participants made suggestions for improved tailoring, such as increasing content on social aspects of drinking and military-specific risks of alcohol misuse (eg, Uniform Code of Military Justice violations). Conclusions: Although the acceptability of eCHECKUP TO GO was high, continued efforts are needed to ensure the content accurately reflects the experiences of cadets. Researchers who design military health promotion interventions need to consider the varied contexts within the force and rigorously evaluate the acceptability of all content before implementation. ", doi="10.2196/67637", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67637" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67755, author="Li, Xiaoli and Liu, Xiaoyu and Yin, Cheng and Collins, Sandra and Alanazi, Eman", title="Impact of a Virtual Reality Video (``A Walk-Through Dementia'') on YouTube Users: Topic Modeling Analysis", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e67755", keywords="Alzheimer disease", keywords="Alzheimer disease and related dementias", keywords="ADRD", keywords="dementia", keywords="public awareness", keywords="text mining", keywords="older adult", keywords="health care student", keywords="training", keywords="health care professional", keywords="simulation", keywords="digital world", keywords="virtual environment", keywords="virtual tour", keywords="walk-through dementia", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="VR", keywords="VR video", keywords="VR application", keywords="topic modeling", keywords="YouTube", keywords="Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers", keywords="BERT", keywords="social media comments", keywords="experiential learning tool", abstract="Background: Emerging research has highlighted the potential of virtual reality (VR) as a tool for training health care students and professionals in care skills for individuals with Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD). However, there is limited research on the use of VR to engage the general public in raising awareness about ADRD. Objective: This research aimed to examine the impact of the VR video ``A Walk-Through Dementia'' on YouTube users by analyzing their posts. Methods: We collected 12,754 comments from the VR video series ``A Walk-Through Dementia,'' which simulates the everyday challenges faced by individuals with ADRD, providing viewers with an immersive experience of the condition. Topic modeling was conducted to gauge viewer opinions and reactions to the videos. A pretrained Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) model was used to transform the YouTube comments into high-dimensional vector embeddings, allowing for systematic identification and detailed analysis of the principal topics and their thematic structures within the dataset. Results: We identified the top 300 most frequent words in the dataset and categorized them into nouns, verbs, and adjectives or adverbs using a part-of-speech tagging model, fine-tuned for accurate tagging tasks. The topic modeling process identified eight8 initial topics based on the most frequent words. After manually reviewing the 8 topics and the content of the comments, we synthesized them into 5 themes. The predominant theme, represented in 2917 comments, centered on users' personal experiences with the impact of ADRD on patients and caregivers. The remaining themes were categorized into 4 main areas: positive reactions to the VR videos, challenges faced by individuals with ADRD, the role of caregivers, and learning from the VR videos. Conclusions: Using topic modeling, this study demonstrated that VR applications serve as engaging and experiential learning tools, offering the public a deeper understanding of life with ADRD. Future research should explore additional VR applications on social media, as they hold the potential to reach wider audiences and effectively disseminate knowledge about ADRD. ", doi="10.2196/67755", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67755" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68132, author="Sutori, Sara and Eliasson, Ther{\'e}se Emma and Mura, Francesca and Ortiz, Victor and Catrambonephd, Vincenzo and Hadlaczky, Gerg{\"o} and Todorov, Ivo and Alfeo, Luca Antonio and Cardi, Valentina and Cimino, A. Mario G. C. and Mioni, Giovanna and Raya, Alca{\~n}iz Mariano and Valenza, Gaetano and Carli, Vladimir and Gentili, Claudio", title="Acceptability, Usability, and Insights Into Cybersickness Levels of a Novel Virtual Reality Environment for the Evaluation of Depressive Symptoms: Exploratory Observational Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="16", volume="9", pages="e68132", keywords="depression", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="assessment", keywords="acceptability", keywords="usability", keywords="cybersickness", abstract="Background: There is a clear need for enhanced mental health assessment, depressive symptom (DS) evaluation being no exception. A promising approach to this aim is using virtual reality (VR), which entails the potential of adding a wider set of assessment domains with enhanced ecological validity. However, whilst several studies have used VR for both diagnostic and treatment purposes, its acceptance, in particular how exposure to virtual environments affects populations with psychiatric conditions remains unknown. Objective: This study aims to report on the acceptability, usability, and cybersickness levels of a pilot VR environment designed for the purpose of differentiating between individuals with DSs. Methods: The exploratory study, conducted in Italy, included 50 healthy controls and 50 young adults with mild-to-moderate DSs (without the need for a formal diagnosis). The study used an observational design with approximately 30 minutes of VR exposure followed by a self-report questionnaire battery. The battery included a questionnaire based on the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability, the System Usability Scale as well as the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire. Results: Results indicate that the majority found VR acceptable for the purposes of mental health screening and treatment. However, for diagnostics, there was a clear preference for VR to be used by mental health professionals as a supplementary tool, as opposed to a stand-alone solution. In practice, following exposure to the pilot VR environment, generally, good levels of acceptability and usability were reported, but areas in need of improvement were identified (such as self-efficacy). Self-reported cybersickness levels were comparable to literature averages but were considerably higher among those with DSs. Conclusions: These findings raise questions about the potential interplay between underlying somatic symptoms of depression and VR-induced cybersickness and call for more attention from the scientific community both in terms of methodology as well as potential clinical and theoretical implications. Conclusively, user support indicates a potential for VR to aid mental health assessment, but further research is needed to understand how exposure to virtual environments might affect populations with varying severity and other forms of psychiatric symptoms. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.1186/ISRCTN16396369 ", doi="10.2196/68132", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68132" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68855, author="Feldman, G. Amy and Beaty, L. Brenda and Moore, L. Susan and Bull, Sheana and Wilson, Kumanan and Atkinson, M. Katherine and Bell, Cameron and Denize, M. Kathryn and Kempe, Allison", title="Feasibility, Acceptability, and Effectiveness of a Smartphone App to Increase Pretransplant Vaccine Rates: Usability Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="15", volume="9", pages="e68855", keywords="mobile app", keywords="vaccines", keywords="immunizations", keywords="transplantation", keywords="children", keywords="beta test", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mHealth", abstract="Background: Vaccine-preventable infections result in significant morbidity, mortality, and costs in pediatric transplant recipients. Despite intensive medical care in the pretransplant period, less than 20\% of children are up to date for age-appropriate vaccines at the time of transplant. Mobile health apps have the potential to improve pretransplant vaccine rates. Objective: This paper aimed to perform phase 2 beta testing of the smartphone app, Immunize PediatricTransplant, to determine (1) if it was effective in achieving up-to-date vaccine status by the time of transplant in a cohort of children awaiting transplants and (2) if the app was feasible and acceptable to parent and transplant provider users. Methods: We recruited 25 dyads of parents and providers of a child awaiting a liver, kidney, or heart transplant at Children's Hospital Colorado, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Parents and providers filled out an entry questionnaire before app use to gather baseline information. A research team member entered the child's vaccine records into the app. The parent and provider downloaded and used the app until the transplant to view vaccine records, read vaccine education, communicate with team members, and receive overdue vaccine reminders. After the transplant (or on April 1, 2024, the conclusion of the study), the parent and provider filled out an exit questionnaire to explore feasibility and acceptability of the app. The child's vaccine records were reviewed to determine if the child was up to date on vaccines at the time of transplant. Results: Twenty-five parent and provider dyads were enrolled; 56\% (14/25) had a child awaiting a liver transplant, 28\% (7/25) had a child awaiting a kidney transplant, and 16\% (4/25) had a child awaiting a heart transplant. At the conclusion of the study, 96\% (24/25) of the children were up to date on vaccines. Of the 36 parents and providers who filled out an exit questionnaire, 97\% (n=35) agreed or strongly agreed that they felt knowledgeable about pretransplant vaccine use and 86\% (n=31) agreed or strongly agreed that communication around vaccines was good after using the app. Further, 91\% (20/22) of parents and 79\% (11/14) of providers recommended the app to future parents and providers of transplant candidates. Parents and providers suggested that in the future the app should connect directly to the electronic medical record or state vaccine registries to obtain vaccine data. Conclusions: The overwhelming majority of children whose parents and providers used the Immunize PediatricTransplant app were up to date on vaccines at the time of transplant. The majority of app users felt the app was feasible and acceptable. In future iterations of the app and subsequent clinical trials, we will explore whether application programming interfaces might be used to extract vaccine data from the electronic medical record. If implemented broadly, this app has the potential to improve pretransplant vaccine rates, resulting in fewer posttransplant infections and improved posttransplant outcomes. ", doi="10.2196/68855", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68855" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66301, author="Coffield, Edward and Kausar, Khadeja", title="Evaluating User Engagement With a Real-Time, Text-Based Digital Mental Health Support App: Cross-Sectional, Retrospective Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="14", volume="9", pages="e66301", keywords="mental health support", keywords="text", keywords="app", keywords="utilization", keywords="mobile", keywords="on demand", keywords="scheduled", keywords="mHealth", keywords="mobile health", keywords="student", keywords="university", keywords="college", keywords="mental health", keywords="employee", keywords="job", keywords="work", keywords="occupational health", keywords="counselor", keywords="counseling", keywords="usage", keywords="engagement", keywords="self-reported", abstract="Background: Approximately 20\% of US adults identify as having a mental illness. Structural and other barriers prevent many people from receiving mental health services. Digital mental health apps that provide 24-hour, real-time access to human support may improve access to mental health services. However, information is needed regarding how and why people engage with licensed counselors through a digital, real-time, text-based mental health support app in nonexperimental settings. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate how people engage with Counslr, a 24-hour, digital, mental health support app where users communicate in real time with human counselors through text messaging. Specifically, access patterns (eg, day of the week and time of session) and reasons for accessing the platform were examined. Furthermore, whether differences existed between session types (on-demand or scheduled) and membership types (education or noneducation) in regard to access patterns and why people accessed the platform were evaluated. Methods: The study population (users) consisted of students whose schools, universities, or colleges partnered with Counslr and employees whose organizations also partnered with Counslr. Users participated in text-based mental health support sessions. In these sessions, users engaged with licensed counselors through digital, text-based messaging in real time. Users could initiate an on-demand session or schedule a session 24 hours a day. User engagement patterns were evaluated through session length, session day, session time, and self-reported reasons for initiating the session. The data were stratified by membership type (education [students] or noneducation [employees]) and session type (on-demand or scheduled) to evaluate whether differences existed in usage patterns and self-reported reasons for initiating sessions by membership and session types. Results: Most students (178/283, 62.9\%) and employees (28/44, 63.6\%) accessed Counslr through on-demand sessions. The average and median session times were 40 (SD 15.3) and 45 minutes. On-demand sessions (37.9 minutes) were shorter (P=.001) than scheduled sessions (43.5 minutes). Most users (262/327, 80.1\%) accessed Counslr between 7 PM and 5 AM. The hours that users accessed Counslr did not statistically differ by membership type (P=.19) or session type (P=.10). Primary self-reported reasons for accessing Counslr were relationship reasons, depression, and anxiety; however, users initiated sessions for a variety of reasons. Statistically significant differences existed between membership and session types (P<.05) for some of the reasons why people initiated sessions. Conclusions: The novel findings of this study illustrate that real-time, digital mental health support apps, which offer people the opportunity to engage with licensed counselors outside of standard office hours for a variety of mental health conditions, may help address structural barriers to accessing mental health support services. Additional research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of human-based apps such as Counslr and whether such apps can also address disparities in access to mental health support services among different demographic groups. ", doi="10.2196/66301", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66301" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65357, author="Keinert, Marie and Schindler-Gmelch, Lena and Rupp, Helene Lydia and Sadeghi, Misha and Richer, Robert and Capito, Klara and Eskofier, M. Bjoern and Berking, Matthias", title="The EmpkinS-EKSpression Reappraisal Training Augmented With Kinesthesia in Depression: One-Armed Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="14", volume="9", pages="e65357", keywords="depression", keywords="cognitive reappraisal", keywords="facial expression", keywords="kinesthesia", keywords="smartphone-based intervention", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Harboring dysfunctional depressogenic cognitions contributes to the development and maintenance of depression. A central goal of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression is to invalidate such cognitions via cognitive reappraisal (CR). However, relatively low remission rates and high dropout rates in CBT demonstrate the need for further improvement. Potentially, the effects of CBT could be enhanced by addressing not only dysfunctional depressogenic cognitions but also body states associated with depression. This may be done, for example, by systematically pairing the invalidation of depressogenic cognitions with the performance of antidepressive kinesthesia. Objective: This study aimed to examine the feasibility and clinical potential of a smartphone-based cognitive restructuring task that required users to deliberately perform antidepressive kinesthesia in conjunction with the rejection of depressogenic statements and the affirmation of antidepressive statements. This feasibility study was conducted as a precursor to a large-scale randomized controlled trial. Methods: In total, 10 healthy participants engaged in a single 90-120-minute session of smartphone-based CR training. During the training, they completed 2 phases in which they were required to reject 20 depressogenic and affirm 20 antidepressive statements, respectively. Diagnostic assessments were conducted 1 week (T1) before and directly prior (T2) to the training, and again directly posttraining (T3) and at a 2-week follow-up posttraining (T4). Feasibility outcomes assessed at T3 included intervention safety recorded by study therapists, compliance, technical feasibility, usability assessed using the Short Version of the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ-S), and acceptability assessed using the UEQ-S and self-developed items. Preliminary clinical potential was evaluated via single-item ratings of current depressed and positive mood assessed continuously during the training. Feasibility outcomes were analyzed descriptively, and clinical potential was examined using paired-sample t tests of pre and post ratings of mood at each training phase. Results: Overall, the results indicated that the training was safe, feasible, and usable (UEQ-S pragmatic quality scale: mean 1.45, SD 0.71). However, acceptance was limited (UEQ-S hedonic quality scale: mean 1.05, SD 0.79). While 80\% (8/10) of the participants were generally satisfied with the training, 80\% (8/10) would recommend it to a friend, 90\% (9/10) found it interesting, and 80\% (8/10) rated it as ``leading edge,'' 40\% (4/10) to 70\% (7/10) did not consider it particularly helpful and 50\% (5/10) found it repetitive. Preliminary results regarding clinical potential were promising, with significant increases in positive mood (rejection: Hedges g=0.63; affirmation: Hedges g=0.25), whereas changes in depressed mood were not significant. Conclusions: This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a smartphone-based CR training augmented with validating and invalidating kinesthesia. This provided valuable insights for further optimizing the intervention for the subsequent randomized controlled trial, but also potential similar interventions. If future studies confirm their clinical potential, such interventions offer a promising approach to enhancing CBT for depression. Trial Registration: OSF Registries pw6ma; https://osf.io/pw6ma/ ", doi="10.2196/65357", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65357" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66509, author="Raspado, Olivier and Brack, Michel and Brack, Olivier and Vivancos, M{\'e}lanie and Esparcieux, Aur{\'e}lie and Cart-Tanneur, Emmanuelle and Aouifi, Abdellah", title="Oxidative Stress Markers and Prediction of Severity With a Machine Learning Approach in Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19 and Severe Lung Disease: Observational, Retrospective, Single-Center Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="11", volume="9", pages="e66509", keywords="oxidative stress", keywords="COVID-19", keywords="SARS-CoV-2", keywords="coronavirus", keywords="respiratory", keywords="infectious", keywords="pulmonary", keywords="respiration disorders", keywords="hospitalization", keywords="machine learning", keywords="ML", keywords="biomarker", keywords="lung", keywords="severity", keywords="prediction", abstract="Background: Serious pulmonary pathologies of infectious, viral, or bacterial origin are accompanied by inflammation and an increase in oxidative stress (OS). In these situations, biological measurements of OS are technically difficult to obtain, and their results are difficult to interpret. OS assays that do not require complex preanalytical methods, as well as machine learning methods for improving interpretation of the results, would be very useful tools for medical and care teams. Objective: We aimed to identify relevant OS biomarkers associated with the severity of hospitalized patients' condition and identify possible correlations between OS biomarkers and the clinical status of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and severe lung disease at the time of hospital admission. Methods: All adult patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at the Infirmerie Protestante (Lyon, France) from February 9, 2022, to May 18, 2022, were included, regardless of the care service they used, during the respiratory infectious COVID-19 epidemic. We collected serous biomarkers from the patients (zinc [Zn], copper [Cu], Cu/Zn ratio, selenium, uric acid, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], oxidized low-density lipoprotein, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and thiols), as well as demographic variables and comorbidities. A support vector machine (SVM) model was used to predict the severity of the patients' condition based on the collected data as a training set. Results: A total of 28 patients were included: 8 were asymptomatic at admission (grade 0), 14 had mild to moderate symptoms (grade 1) and 6 had severe to critical symptoms (grade 3). As the first outcome, we found that 3 biomarkers of OS were associated with severity (Zn, Cu/Zn ratio, and thiols), especially between grades 0 and 1 and between grades 0 and 2. As a second outcome, we found that the SVM model could predict the level of severity based on a biological analysis of the level of OS, with only 7\% misclassification on the training dataset. As an illustrative example, we simulated 3 different biological profiles (named A, B, and C) and submitted them to the SVM model. Profile B had significantly high Zn, low hs-CRP, a low Cu/Zn ratio, and high thiols, corresponding to grade 0. Profile C had low Zn, low selenium, high oxidized low-density lipoprotein, high glutathione peroxidase, a low Cu/Zn ratio, and low glutathione reductase, corresponding to grade 2. Conclusions: The level of severity of pulmonary damage in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 was predicted using an SVM model; moderate to severe symptoms in patients were associated with low Zn, low plasma thiol, increased hs-CRP, and an increased Cu/Zn ratio among a panel of 10 biomarkers of OS. Since this panel does not require a complex preanalytical method, it can be used and studied in other pathologies associated with OS, such as infectious pathologies or chronic diseases. ", doi="10.2196/66509", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66509" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65188, author="Fleszar-Pavlovic, E. Sara and Noriega Esquives, Blanca and Lovan, Padideh and Brito, E. Arianna and Sia, Marie Ann and Kauffman, Adelyn Mary and Lopes, Maria and Moreno, I. Patricia and Koru-Sengul, Tulay and Gong, Rui and Wang, Trent and Wieder, D. Eric and Rueda-Lara, Maria and Antoni, Michael and Komanduri, Krishna and Lesiuk, Teresa and Penedo, J. Frank", title="Development of an eHealth Mindfulness-Based Music Therapy Intervention for Adults Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Qualitative Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="11", volume="9", pages="e65188", keywords="allogeneic stem cell transplantation", keywords="hematologic malignancy", keywords="bone marrow transplant", keywords="mindfulness-based music therapy", keywords="mindfulness", keywords="music therapy", keywords="eHealth", keywords="music therapy intervention", keywords="adult", keywords="adolescence", keywords="allogeneic", keywords="stem cell transplantation", keywords="stem cell", keywords="transplantation", keywords="qualitative study", keywords="treatment", keywords="hematologic cancers", keywords="psychological distress", keywords="side effects", keywords="mindfulness-based stress reduction", keywords="stress reduction", keywords="anxiety", keywords="depression", keywords="diagnosis", keywords="blood sample collection", keywords="eHealth tool", keywords="quality of life", keywords="cancer survivors", abstract="Background: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) is an effective treatment for various hematologic cancers, though it often results in severe side effects and psychological distress, which can negatively impact health outcomes. Integrative therapies like mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), mindfulness meditation (MM), and music therapy (MT) yield promising results in enhancing both psychosocial outcomes (eg, reducing anxiety and depression) and physiological adaptation (eg, decreasing inflammation) in cancer patients. Objective: We developed and refined, using focus groups and environmental and field testing, an eHealth-delivered mindfulness-based music therapy (eMBMT) intervention aimed at improving health-related quality of life, symptom burden (ie, pain, fatigue, and sleep), disease activity (ie, chronic graft-versus-host disease, cytomegalovirus activation, and infections) and psychosocial (ie, depression, anxiety, and cancer-specific distress) and physiological adaptation (ie, inflammation and immune reconstitution) tailored to adults receiving allo-SCT. Methods: eMBMT intervention content is grounded in MT, MM, and MBSR, developed by a multidisciplinary team, and adapted for adults undergoing allo-SCT. eMBMT content was refined through focus groups and usability and field testing. Focus groups used a semistructured interview guide, while field testing used the ``think aloud'' method. Usability was evaluated using the 30-item Usefulness, Satisfaction, and Ease of Use (USE) questionnaire. Descriptive statistics analyzed the USE questionnaire and participant characteristics, while rapid qualitative analysis was applied to focus groups and field-testing sessions. Survivors eligible to participate in the focus groups and usability and field testing were adults (>18 years old) who received an allo-SCT (<36 months) for myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, or chronic myeloid leukemia, and were in remission for greater than 3 months. Results: During the focus groups, participants (n=11; mean age 43.6, SD 17.8 years) provided qualitative feedback highlighting the shock of diagnosis, challenges during hospitalization, and coping strategies posttreatment. The eMBMT platform received positive evaluations for usefulness (mean 6.47, SD 0.29), ease of use (mean 6.92, SD 0.60), and satisfaction (mean 6.16, SD 0.82). Key themes from field testing highlighted the significance of social support, hope, and maintaining an active lifestyle. Suggestions for improvement included incorporating more representative content, reducing text, enhancing guidance, offering diverse music options, and streamlining blood sample collection. Conclusions: The eMBMT intervention is a comprehensive, user-friendly eHealth tool tailored to the unique needs of allo-SCT patients. The positive feedback and identified areas for improvement underscore its potential to enhance well-being, symptom management, and overall quality of life for cancer survivors. A future pilot randomized controlled trial will further evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the eMBMT intervention in improving health-related quality of life, symptom burden, disease activity, and psychosocial and physiological adaptation. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05968963; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05968963 ", doi="10.2196/65188", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65188" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67275, author="Hutchison, G. Michael and Di Battista, P. Alex and Pyndiura, L. Kyla", title="Evaluating User Experience and Satisfaction in a Concussion Rehabilitation App: Usability Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="11", volume="9", pages="e67275", keywords="mild traumatic brain injury", keywords="recovery", keywords="mHealth", keywords="app", keywords="digital health", keywords="smartphone", keywords="eHealth", keywords="digital", keywords="technology", keywords="usability", keywords="concussion rehabilitation", keywords="brain injury", keywords="rehabilitation protocols", keywords="evidence-based exercise", keywords="single-arm pilot study", keywords="home-based rehabilitation", keywords="user-friendly", keywords="questionnaire", keywords="telehealth", keywords="telemedicine", abstract="Background: Evidence-based guidelines support the use of structured exercise to facilitate concussion recovery. Despite the growing number of mobile health (mHealth) apps aimed at managing concussions, few focus on delivering exercise rehabilitation protocols. Therefore, a mobile app was developed to provide personalized rehabilitation programs based on evidence-based exercise principles designed to cater to individuals recovering from concussions. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the usability and user experience of a mobile app designed to deliver an evidence-based rehabilitation program to individuals recovering from concussions. Methods: A two-week prospective single-arm pilot study was conducted among adults with a physician-diagnosed concussion. Participants engaged in home-based rehabilitation exercises through a mobile app. Usability was assessed using a combination of the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ) and five custom questions evaluating confidence in recommendations, exercise flow, clarity of voice commands, and usability of the exercise report feature. Following the two-week period, participants rated each question on a 7-point Likert scale ranging from ``strongly agree'' to ``strongly disagree''. Results: Twenty-six participants consented and were enrolled in the study, with 23 participants (82\%) completing all study components at the end of two weeks. The majority of participants were women, aged 26-38 years, and on average, approximately at three months postconcussion. Responses to both the MAUQ and custom questions were overwhelmingly positive. Overall, seven MAUQ questions received 100\% positive responses, with no single question scoring below 83\% positive responses. In the ``ease of use and satisfaction'' category, 100\% of users responded positively to questions on ease of learning, usability, interface likeness, and comfort in social settings, while 83\%-96\% (19-22) of users responded positively to the remaining four questions. In the ``system information arrangement'' category, 100\% (N=23) of users rated screen navigation, function usability, and health care service acceptability positively, with 87\%-96\% of users approving action acknowledgment, error recovery, and expected functions. Under the ``usefulness'' category, 96\% (n=22) of users found the app beneficial for health and well-being, and 91\% (n=21) users felt it effectively managed their health. For the five custom questions, 100\% (N=23) users responded positively to voice command clarity, exercise awareness, ease of following exercises, and report understandability, with a single unfavorable response noted for confidence in app recommendations. Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate that the mobile app is a user-friendly platform for delivering evidence-based exercise rehabilitation to individuals recovering from concussions. Positive user feedback, particularly in the areas of recommendation confidence, ease of exercise flow, and clarity of voice commands, highlights the app's potential to support concussion recovery. Future iterations of the app will aim to improve time efficiency and streamline error recovery processes to further enhance the user experience. ", doi="10.2196/67275", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67275" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63700, author="Havreng-Th{\'e}ry, Charlotte and Fouchard, Arnaud and Denis, Fabrice and Veyron, Jacques-Henri and Belmin, Jo{\"e}l", title="Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of a Machine Learning--Based eHealth System to Predict and Reduce Emergency Department Visits and Unscheduled Hospitalizations of Older People Living at Home: Retrospective Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="11", volume="9", pages="e63700", keywords="monitoring", keywords="older adult", keywords="predictive tool", keywords="home care aide", keywords="emergency department visit", keywords="cost-effectiveness", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="electronic health", keywords="eHealth", keywords="emergency department", keywords="unscheduled hospitalization", keywords="aging", keywords="retrospective study", keywords="medico-economic", keywords="living at home", keywords="nursing home", keywords="emergency visit", keywords="Brittany", keywords="France", keywords="machine learning", keywords="remote monitoring", keywords="digital health", keywords="health informatics", abstract="Background: Dependent older people or those losing their autonomy are at risk of emergency hospitalization. Digital systems that monitor health remotely could be useful in reducing these visits by detecting worsening health conditions earlier. However, few studies have assessed the medico-economic impact of these systems, particularly for older people. Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the clinical and economic impacts of an eHealth device in real life compared with the usual monitoring of older people living at home. Methods: This study was a comparative, retrospective, and controlled trial on data collected between May 31, 2021, and May 31, 2022, in one health care and home nursing center located in Brittany, France. Participants had to be aged >75 years, living at home, and receiving assistance from the home care service for at least 1 month. We implemented among the intervention group an eHealth system that produces an alert for a high risk of emergency department visits or hospitalizations. After each home visit, the home care aides completed a questionnaire on participants' functional status using a smartphone app, and the information was processed in real time by a previously developed machine learning algorithm that identifies patients at risk of an emergency visit within 7 to 14 days. In the case of predicted risk, the eHealth system alerted a coordinating nurse who could then inform the family carer and the patient's nurses or general practitioner. Results: A total of 120 patients were included in the study, with 60 in the control group and 60 in the intervention group. Among the 726 visits from the intervention group that were not followed by an alert, only 4 (0.6\%) resulted in hospitalizations (P<.001), confirming the relevance of the system's alerts. Over the course of the study, 37 hospitalizations were recorded for 25 (20.8\%) of the 120 patients. Additionally, of the 120 patients, 9 (7.5\%) were admitted to a nursing home, and 7 (5.8\%) died. Patients in the intervention group (56/60, 93\%) remained at home significantly more often than those in the control group (48/60, 80\%; P=.03). The total cost of primary care and hospitalization during the study was {\texteuro}167,000 ({\texteuro}1=US \$1.09), with {\texteuro}108,000 (64.81\%) attributed to the intervention group (P=.20). Conclusions: This study presents encouraging results on the impact of a remote medical monitoring system for older adults, demonstrating a reduction in both emergency department visits and hospitalization costs. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05221697; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05221697 ", doi="10.2196/63700", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63700", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40215100" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63928, author="Shin, Jinyoung and Kweon, Jung Hyuk and Choi, Jaekyung", title="Assessment of Gait Parameters Using Wearable Sensors and Their Association With Muscle Mass, Strength, and Physical Performance in Korean Older Adults: Cross-Sectional Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="10", volume="9", pages="e63928", keywords="gait analysis", keywords="sarcopenia", keywords="wearable electronic devices", keywords="muscle mass", keywords="physical performance", keywords="older adults", keywords="geriatric", keywords="cross-sectional study", keywords="outpatient clinic", keywords="Korea", keywords="mHealth", keywords="mobile health", abstract="Background: Gait speed indicates the onset or decline of physical performance in sarcopenia. However, real-time measurements of other gait parameters, such as step length, stride length, step width, and support time, are limited. The advent of wearable technology has facilitated the measurement of these parameters, necessitating further investigation into their potential applications. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between gait parameters measured using wearable sensors and muscle mass, strength, and physical performance in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: In a cross-sectional study of 91 participants aged ?65 years, gait parameters, such as step count, step length, cadence, single and double support times, vertical oscillation, and instantaneous vertical loading rate (IVLR), measured using a wireless earbud device, were analyzed on the basis of the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), calf circumference, handgrip strength, 5-time chair stand test, short physical performance battery (SPPB), and the SARC-F (strength, assistance with walking, rise from a chair, climb stairs and fall frequency) questionnaire. This study was conducted from July 10 to November 1, 2023, at an outpatient clinic of a university hospital in Seoul, Korea. Multiple regression analysis was performed to investigate independent associations after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and comorbidities. Results: Among 91 participants (45 men and 46 women; mean age 74.1 years for men and 73.6 years for women), gait speed and vertical oscillation showed negative associations with their performance in the 5-time chair stand test (P<.001) and SARC-F and positive associations with their performance in the SPPB (P<.001). Vertical oscillations were also associated with grip strength (P=.003). Single and double support times were associated with performance in the 5-time chair stand test and SPPB (P<.001). In addition, double support time was associated with SARC-F scores (P<.001). Gait speed, support time, vertical oscillation, and IVLR showed independent associations with performance in the 5-time chair stand test and SPPB (P<.001), both related to muscle strength or physical performance. Gait speed, double support time, and vertical oscillation all had significant associations with SARC-F scores. Conclusions: This study demonstrated a significant association between gait monitoring using wearable sensors and quantitative assessments of muscle strength and physical performance in older people. Furthermore, this study substantiated the extensive applicability of diverse gait parameters in predicting sarcopenia. ", doi="10.2196/63928", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63928" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67767, author="Chan, Fan-Ying and Ku, Yi-En and Lie, Wen-Nung and Chen, Hsiang-Yin", title="Web-Based Explainable Machine Learning-Based Drug Surveillance for Predicting Sunitinib- and Sorafenib-Associated Thyroid Dysfunction: Model Development and Validation Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="10", volume="9", pages="e67767", keywords="thyroid dysfunction", keywords="machine learning", keywords="cancer", keywords="sunitinib", keywords="sorafenib", keywords="TKI", keywords="tyrosine kinase inhibitor", abstract="Background: Unlike one-snap data collection methods that only identify high-risk patients, machine learning models using time-series data can predict adverse events and aid in the timely management of cancer. Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate machine learning models for sunitinib- and sorafenib-associated thyroid dysfunction using a time-series data collection approach. Methods: Time series data of patients first prescribed sunitinib or sorafenib were collected from a deidentified clinical research database. Logistic regression, random forest, adaptive Boosting, Light Gradient-Boosting Machine, and Gradient Boosting Decision Tree were used to develop the models. Prediction performances were compared using the accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and area under the precision-recall curve. The optimal threshold for the best-performing model was selected based on the maximum F1-score. SHapley Additive exPlanations analysis was conducted to assess feature importance and contributions at both the cohort and patient levels. Results: The training cohort included 609 patients, while the temporal validation cohort had 198 patients. The Gradient Boosting Decision Tree model without resampling outperformed other models, with area under the precision-recall curve of 0.600, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.876, and F1-score of 0.583 after adjusting the threshold. The SHapley Additive exPlanations analysis identified higher cholesterol levels, longer summed days of medication use, and clear cell adenocarcinoma histology as the most important features. The final model was further integrated into a web-based application. Conclusions: This model can serve as an explainable adverse drug reaction surveillance system for predicting sunitinib- and sorafenib-associated thyroid dysfunction. ", doi="10.2196/67767", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67767" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/58916, author="Francis, M. Jackson and Neti, S. Sitapriya and Polavarapu, Dhatri and Atem, Folefac and Xie, Luyu and Kapera, Olivia and Mathew, S. Matthew and Marroquin, Elisa and McAdams, Carrie and Schellinger, Jeffrey and Ngenge, Sophia and Kukreja, Sachin and Schneider, E. Benjamin and Almandoz, P. Jaime and Messiah, E. Sarah", title="Association of Social Media Recruitment and Depression Among Racially and Ethnically Diverse Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Candidates: Prospective Cohort Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="10", volume="9", pages="e58916", keywords="social media", keywords="social media recruitment", keywords="depression", keywords="depressed", keywords="major depressive disorder", keywords="MDD", keywords="depressive disorder", keywords="depressive", keywords="race", keywords="racial", keywords="racial differences", keywords="ethnic", keywords="ethnic differences", keywords="ethnicity", keywords="metabolic surgery", keywords="bariatric surgery", keywords="obesity", keywords="obese", keywords="online health", keywords="ethics", keywords="mental health", keywords="eHealth", keywords="internet", keywords="digital health", keywords="digital mental health", keywords="online interventions", keywords="public engagement", keywords="public health", abstract="Background: Due to the widespread use of social media and the internet in today's connected world, obesity and depression rates are increasing concurrently on a global scale. This study investigated the complex dynamics involving social media recruitment for scientific research, race, ethnicity, and depression among metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) candidates. Objective: This study aimed to determine (1) the association between social media recruitment and depression among MBS candidates and (2) racial and ethnic differences in social media recruitment engagement. Methods: The analysis included data from 380 adult MBS candidates enrolled in a prospective cohort study from July 2019 to December 2022. Race and ethnicity, recruitment method (social media: yes or no), and depression status were evaluated using $\chi$2 tests and logistic regression models. Age, sex, and ethnicity were adjusted in multivariable logistic regression models. Results: The mean age of the candidates was 47.35 (SD 11.6) years, ranging from 18 to 78 years. Participants recruited through social media (n=41, 38.32\%) were more likely to report past or current episodes of depression compared to nonsocial media--recruited participants (n=74, 27.11\%; P=.03), with a 67\% increased likelihood of depression (odds ratio [OR] 1.67, 95\% CI 1.04?2.68, P=.03). Further analysis showed that participants with a history of depression who were below the mean sample age were 2.26 times more likely to be recruited via social media (adjusted OR [aOR] 2.26, 95\% CI 1.03?4.95; P=.04) compared to those above the mean age. Hispanic (n=26, 38.81\%) and non-Hispanic White (n=53, 35.10\%) participants were significantly more likely to be recruited via social media than non-Hispanic Black (n=27, 18.37\%) participants (P<.001). After adjusting for covariates, non-Hispanic Black participants were 60\% less likely than non-Hispanic White participants to be recruited via social media (aOR 0.40, 95\% CI 0.22?0.71; P=.002). Conclusions: We found that individuals recruited through social media channels, especially younger participants, were more likely to report past or current episodes of depression compared to those recruited through nonsocial media. The study also showed that non-Hispanic Black individuals are less likely to engage in social media recruitment for scientific research versus other racial and ethnic groups. Future mental health--related studies should consider strategies to mitigate potential biases introduced by recruitment methods to ensure the validity and generalizability of research findings. ", doi="10.2196/58916", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e58916" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63491, author="Louis, Lina-Estelle and Moussaoui, Sa{\"i}d and Ravoux, S{\'e}bastien and Milleville-Pennel, Isabelle", title="Encouraging the Voluntary Mobilization of Mental Resources by Manipulating Task Design: Explorative Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="10", volume="9", pages="e63491", keywords="visual game-like elements", keywords="gamification", keywords="multiplicity of cognitive functions", keywords="cognitive tasks", keywords="perceived playfulness", keywords="mental workload", keywords="performance", keywords="cognitive training", keywords="aging", keywords="mental effort", keywords="cognitive function", keywords="cognitive skills", keywords="cognitive tests", abstract="Background: Cognitive training is increasingly being considered and proposed as a solution for several pathologies, particularly those associated with aging. However, trainees need to be willing to invest enough mental effort to succeed and make progress. Objective: In this study, we explore how gamification in a narrative context (ie, the addition of visual game-like elements [GLEs] embedded in real-world contexts) could contribute increase in perceived playfulness (PP) and voluntary mental effort allocated to a cognitive task. In such context, narrative elements and GLEs can be designed to align with a commonly relatable scenario (like simulating fishing or gardening activity) to ground the task in familiar, real-world contexts. We also consider if the supposed effect of GLEs on PP and voluntary mental effort could endure while manipulating an intrinsic variable of the task (ie, by increasing cognitive solicitation). Methods: In total, 20 participants (average age 33.6, SD 8.6 y) took part in 3 cognitive tasks proposed in a numerical format: a classic version of the Corsi test (Classic Corsi, a spatial memory task), a playful version of the Classic Corsi test (Playful Corsi), with added visual GLEs in a narrative context, and a playful version of the Classic Corsi test with added cognitive solicitation, that is, mental motor inhibition (Playful Corsi Multi). We assessed the impact of visual GLEs and cognitive solicitation on PP (1 question) and mental workload (MWL) using NASA-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) and workload profile (WP) questionnaires. Results: Results showed that PP was not influenced by interface's playful characteristics (Classic Corsi [mean 62.4, SD 8.8] vs Playful Corsi [mean 66, SD 8.8]; W=77; P=.30) but decreased the time necessary to complete the task (Classic Corsi [mean 10.7, SD 2.1 s] vs Playful Corsi [mean 6.8, SD 1.6 s]; W=209; P<.001) as well as performance (Classic Corsi [mean 92.4, SD 9.1] vs Playful Corsi [mean 88.2, SD 11.3]; W=140.5; P=.02). So, possibly, visual GLEs could raise the stakes of the task slightly and implicitly encourage people to go a bit faster. Furthermore, visual GLEs increased MWL regarding attentional resources (assessed by WP: Classic Corsi [mean 52.4, SD 10.9] vs Playful Corsi [mean 65.8, SD 10.9]; W=27.5; P=.04), while manipulating cognitive solicitation impacted MWL when linked to task requirements (assessed by NASA-TLX: Playful Corsi [mean 54.2, SD 9.4] vs Playful Corsi Multi [mean 67.5, SD 9.4]; W=35.5; P=.01) without impacting the performance to the task (Playful Corsi [mean 83.8, SD 13.9] vs Playful Corsi Multi [mean 94, SD 5.5]; W=27; P=.007). Thus, working on the way cognitive functions are solicited would be wiser than adding visual GLEs to improve users' voluntary mental effort while preserving performance. Conclusion: These results offer valuable insights to improve users' experience during gamified cognitive tasks and serious games. ", doi="10.2196/63491", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e63491" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65721, author="Wiesm{\"u}ller, Fabian and Prenner, Andreas and Ziegl, Andreas and El-Moazen, Gihan and Modre-Osprian, Robert and Baumgartner, Martin and Brodmann, Marianne and Seinost, Gerald and Silbernagel, G{\"u}nther and Schreier, G{\"u}nter and Hayn, Dieter", title="Support of Home-Based Structured Walking Training and Prediction of the 6-Minute Walk Test Distance in Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease Based on Telehealth Data: Prospective Cohort Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="10", volume="9", pages="e65721", keywords="mHealth", keywords="telehealth", keywords="peripheral arterial disease", keywords="home-based structured walking training", keywords="trend estimation", keywords="predictive modeling", keywords="continuous data", keywords="walking", keywords="walking training", keywords="prediction", keywords="prediction model", keywords="cardiovascular disease", keywords="stroke", keywords="heart failure", keywords="physical fitness", keywords="telehealth system", abstract="Background: Telehealth has been effective in managing cardiovascular diseases like stroke and heart failure and has shown promising results in managing patients with peripheral arterial disease. However, more work is needed to fully understand the effect of telehealth-based predictive modeling on the physical fitness of patients with peripheral arterial disease. Objective: For this work, data from the Keep Pace study were analyzed in depth to gain insights on temporal developments of patients' conditions and to develop models to predict the patients' total walking distance at the study end. This could help to determine patients who are likely to benefit from the telehealth program and to continuously provide estimations to the patients as a motivating factor. Methods: This work analyzes continuous patient-reported telehealth data, in combination with in-clinic data from 19 Fontaine stage II patients with peripheral arterial disease who underwent a 12-week telehealth-based walking program. This analysis granted insights into the increase of the total walking distance of the 6-minute walk tests (6MWT) as a measure for physical fitness, the steady decrease in the patients' pain, and the positive correlation between well-being and the total walking distance measured by the 6MWT. Results: This work analyzed trends of and correlations between continuous patient-generated data. Findings of this study include a significant decrease of the patients' pain sensation over time (P=.006), a low but highly significant correlation between pain sensation and steps taken on the same day (r=?0.11; P<.001) and the walking distance of the independently performed 6MWTs (r=?0.39; P<.001). Despite the reported pain, adherence to the 6MWT measurement protocol was high (85.53\%). Additionally, patients significantly improved their timed-up-and-go test times during the study (P=.002). Predicting the total walking distance at the study end measured by the 6MWT worked well at study baseline (root mean squared error of 30 meters; 7.04\% of the mean total walking distance at the study end of 425 meters) and continuously improved by adding further telehealth data. Future work should validate these findings in a larger cohort and in a prospective setting based on a clinical outcome. Conclusions: We conclude that the prototypical trend estimation has great potential for an integration in the telehealth system to be used in future work to provide tailored patient-specific advice based on these predictions. Continuous data from the telehealth system grant a deeper insight and a better understanding of the patients' status concerning well-being and level of pain as well as their current physical fitness level and the progress toward reaching set goals. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05619835; https://tinyurl.com/mrxt7y9u ", doi="10.2196/65721", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65721" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67624, author="Coren, A. Morgan and Lindhiem, Oliver and Angus, R. Abby and Toevs, K. Emma and Radovic, Ana", title="Provider Perspectives on Implementing an Enhanced Digital Screening for Adolescent Depression and Suicidality: Qualitative Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="10", volume="9", pages="e67624", keywords="depression", keywords="suicidality", keywords="adolescent mental health screening", keywords="primary care", keywords="digital tools", abstract="Background: With a growing adolescent mental health crisis, pediatric societies are increasingly recommending that primary care providers (PCPs) engage in mental health screening. While symptom-level screens identify symptoms, novel technology interventions can assist PCPs with providing additional point-of-care guidance to increase uptake for behavioral health services. Objective: In this study, we sought community PCP feedback on a web-based, digitally enhanced mental health screening tool for adolescents in primary care previously only evaluated in research studies to inform implementation in community settings. Methods: A total of 10 adolescent providers were recruited to trial the new screening tool and participate in structured interviews based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research domains. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded according to a prespecified codebook using a template analysis approach. Results: Providers identified improving mental health screening and treatment in pediatric primary care as a priority and agreed that a web-based digitally enhanced screening tool could help facilitate identification of and management of adolescent depression. Salient barriers identified were lack of electronic health record integration, time to administer screening, implications on clinic workflow, accessibility, and lack of transparency within health care organizations about the process of approving new technologies for clinical use. Providers made multiple suggestions to enhance implementation in community settings, such as incorporating customization options. Conclusions: Technology interventions can help address the need for improved behavioral health support in primary care settings. However, numerous barriers exist, complicating implementation of new technologies in real-world settings. ", doi="10.2196/67624", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67624" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64174, author="Laverdi{\`e}re, Roxanne and Jackson, L. Philip and Banville, Fr{\'e}d{\'e}ric", title="A New Mobile App to Train Attention Processes in People With Traumatic Brain Injury: Logical and Ecological Content Validation Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="9", volume="9", pages="e64174", keywords="mobile app", keywords="attention training", keywords="cognitive remediation", keywords="mindfulness", keywords="psychometric properties", keywords="content validation", abstract="Background: Attention is at the base of more complex cognitive processes, and its deficits can significantly impact safety and health. Attention can be impaired by neurodevelopmental and acquired disorders. One validated theoretical model to explain attention processes and their deficits is the hierarchical model of Sohlberg and Mateer. This model guides intervention development to improve attention following an acquired disorder. Another way to stimulate attention functions is to engage in the daily practice of mindfulness, a multicomponent concept that can be explained by the theoretical model of Baer and colleagues. Mobile apps offer great potential for practicing mindfulness daily as they can easily be used during daily routines, thus facilitating transfer. Laverdi{\`e}re and colleagues have developed such a mobile app called Focusing, which is aimed at attention training using mindfulness-inspired attentional exercises. However, this app has not been scientifically validated. Objective: This research aims to analyze the logical content validity and ecological content validity of the Focusing app. Methods: Logical content validation was performed by 7 experts in neuropsychology and mindfulness. Using an online questionnaire, they determined whether the content of the attention training app exercises is representative of selected constructs, namely the theoretical model of attention by Sohlberg and Mateer and the theoretical model of mindfulness by Baer and colleagues. A focus group was subsequently held with the experts to discuss items that did not reach consensus in order to change or remove them. Ecological content validation was performed with 10 healthy adults. Participants had to explore all sections of the app and assess the usability, relevance, satisfaction, quality, attractiveness, and cognitive load associated with each section of the app, using online questionnaires. Results: Logical content validation results demonstrated a high content validity index (CVI) of the attention training app. Excellent scores (CVI ?0.78) in both the attention and mindfulness models were obtained for all exercises in the app, except 2 exercises. One of these exercises was subsequently modified to include expert feedback, and one was removed. Regarding ecological content validation, the results showed that workload, quality, user experience, satisfaction, and relevance of the app were adequate. The Mobile Application Rating Scale questionnaire showed an average quality rating between 3.75/5 (SD 0.41) (objective quality) and 3.65/5 (SD 0.36) (subjective quality), indicating acceptable quality. The?mean global?attractiveness rating from the AttrakDiff questionnaire was 2.36/3 (SD?0.57), which represents one of the strengths of the app.? Conclusions: Logical and ecological content validation showed that Focusing is theoretically valid, with a high level of agreement among experts and healthy participants. This tool can be tested to train attention processes after a neurological insult such as traumatic brain injury. ", doi="10.2196/64174", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e64174", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40202789" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69952, author="Holmqvist, Sophia and Kaplan, Marina and Chaturvedi, Riya and Shou, Haochang and Giovannetti, Tania", title="Longitudinal and Combined Smartwatch and Ecological Momentary Assessment in Racially Diverse Older Adults: Feasibility, Adherence, and Acceptability Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="12", pages="e69952", keywords="cognitive impairment", keywords="smartwatch", keywords="longitudinal monitoring", keywords="ecological momentary assessment", keywords="aging", abstract="Background: Due to the rising prevalence of Alzheimer disease and related dementias, easily deployable tools to quantify risk are needed. Smartphones and smartwatches enable unobtrusive and continuous monitoring, but there is limited information regarding the feasibility, adherence, and acceptability of digital data collection among racially diverse older adults. Objective: This paper examined the feasibility, adherence, and acceptability of a 4-week combined smartwatch monitoring and ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study in a racially diverse sample of older adults. Methods: A total of 44 older adults (aged ?55 y) with either mild cognitive impairment or healthy cognition completed an informed consent comprehension quiz, baseline cognitive testing, training regarding digital data collection, and questionnaires. Participants were instructed to wear a Garmin Vivosmart 4 smartwatch for 23 h/d for 4 weeks, sync 2 smartphone apps (Garmin and Labfront) daily, and complete a daily EMA survey with automated prompts for surveys and charging. Training time, smartwatch adherence (eg, wear time), daily EMA survey response rate, and performance on the consent quiz were quantified. Associations between feasibility and adherence metrics and participant factors were evaluated. Self-reported usability of the apps and smartwatch was collected at study end. Results: Consent comprehension quiz scores were high (mean 97.33\%, SD 6.86\% correct), and training sessions lasted on average 17.93 (SD 6.89) minutes. During the 4-week study, participants wore the smartwatch for an average of 21 h/d (SD 1.53) and showed an average response rate of 94\% (SD 9.58\%) to daily EMA surveys. In unadjusted bivariate analyses, age, race, and cognition were associated with feasibility and adherence measures, but only age and race remained significant in multivariate models. After accounting for all participant factors, older age was a significant predictor of longer training time, and Black race was a significant predictor of lower daily wear time. On the usability survey, all participants (45/45, 100\%) indicated willingness to participate in future smartwatch studies, >80\% (37/45) had a positive experience, and >90\% (41/45) were satisfied with smartphone app syncing. Conclusions: Smartwatch monitoring, requiring daily wear, smartphone syncing, and daily EMA survey completion, is highly feasible in older adults because adherence to daily wear and EMA surveys was high, as was general satisfaction on usability surveys. Although older participants may require more training on smartwatch and smartphone procedures and automated prompting during the study period, longitudinal monitoring with the Garmin Vivosmart 4 smartwatch and Labfront app is acceptable and feasible for collecting nearly continuous data in Black and White older adults, including those with mild cognitive impairment and those without. ", doi="10.2196/69952", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e69952" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59405, author="Par{\'e}s-Salom{\'o}n, Iris and Vaqu{\'e}-Crusellas, Cristina and Coffey, Alan and Loef, Bette and Proper, I. Karin and Se{\~n}{\'e}-Mir, M. Anna and Puig-Ribera, Anna and Dowd, P. Kieran and Bort-Roig, Judit", title="Development of Digital Strategies for Reducing Sedentary Behavior in a Hybrid Office Environment: Modified Delphi Study", journal="JMIR Hum Factors", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="12", pages="e59405", keywords="sedentary behavior", keywords="office work", keywords="home office", keywords="hybrid work", keywords="technology", keywords="Delphi", abstract="Background: Hybrid work is the new modus operandi for many office workers, leading to more sedentary behavior than office-only working. Given the potential of digital interventions to reduce sedentary behavior and the current lack of studies evaluating these interventions for home office settings, it is crucial to develop digital interventions for such contexts involving all stakeholders. Objective: This study aimed to reach expert consensus on the most feasible work strategies and the most usable digital elements as a delivery method to reduce sedentary behavior in the home office context. Methods: A modified Delphi study including 3 survey rounds and focus groups was conducted to achieve consensus. The first Delphi round consisted of two 9-point Likert scales for assessing the feasibility of work strategies and the potential usefulness of digital elements to deliver the strategies. The work strategies were identified and selected from a scoping review, a systematic review, and 2 qualitative studies involving managers and employees. The median and mean absolute deviation from the median for each item are reported. The second round involved 2 ranking lists with the highly feasible strategies and highly useful digital elements based on round 1 responses to order the list according to experts' preferences. The weighted average ranking for each item was calculated to determine the most highly ranked work strategies and digital elements. The third round encompassed work strategies with a weight above the median from round 2 to be matched with the most useful digital elements to implement each strategy. In total, 4 focus groups were additionally conducted to gain a greater understanding of the findings from the Delphi phase. Focus groups were analyzed using the principles of reflexive thematic analysis. Results: A total of 27 international experts in the field of occupational health participated in the first round, with response rates of 86\% (25/29) and 66\% (19/29) in rounds 2 and 3, respectively, and 52\% (15/29) in the focus groups. Consensus was achieved on 18 work strategies and 16 digital elements. Feedback on activity progress and goal achievement; creating an action plan; and standing while reading, answering phone calls, or conducting videoconferences were the most feasible work strategies, whereas wrist-based activity trackers, a combination of media, and app interfaces in smartphones were the most useful digital elements. Moreover, experts highlighted the requirement of combining multiple levels of strategies, such as social support, physical environment, and individual strategies, to enhance their implementation and effectiveness in reducing sedentary behavior when working from home. Conclusions: This expert consensus provided a foundation for developing digital interventions for sedentary behavior in home office workers. Ongoing interventions should enable the evaluation of feasible strategies delivered via useful digital elements in home office or hybrid contexts. ", doi="10.2196/59405", url="https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e59405", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40198908" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60531, author="Ho, Minh Nhat and Johnson, Catherine and Chidester, Autumn and Viera Corral, Ruby and Ramos, Jacundo and Garcia, Miguel and Gonuguntla, Rishi and Cote, Cyrena and Chandramohan, Divya and Lin, Hueylie and Taranova, Anna and Nijhawan, E. Ank and Kools, Susan and Ingersoll, Karen and Dillingham, Rebecca and Taylor, S. Barbara", title="Centering Youth Voice in the Adaptation of an mHealth Intervention for Young Adults With HIV in South Texas, United States: Human-Centered Design Approach", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="9", pages="e60531", keywords="HIV", keywords="implementation science", keywords="youth", keywords="mHealth", keywords="adherence", keywords="young", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mobile health intervention", keywords="AIDS", keywords="US", keywords="adult", keywords="self-efficacy", keywords="willingness", keywords="health outcomes", keywords="mHealth intervention", keywords="interview", keywords="human-centered design", keywords="acceptability", keywords="usability", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Young adults living with HIV are less likely to engage in care and achieve viral suppression, compared to other age groups. Young adults living with HIV also have a high degree of self-efficacy and willingness to adopt novel care modalities, including mobile health (mHealth) interventions. Interventions to increase care engagement could aid young adults living with HIV in overcoming structural and social barriers and leveraging youth assets to improve their health outcomes. Objective: The objective of the paper was to use an assets-based framework, positive youth development, and human-centered design principles to adapt an existing mHealth intervention, PositiveLinks (PL), to support care engagement for 18? to 29-year-olds with HIV. Methods: We conducted a formative evaluation including semistructured interviews with 14 young adults with HIV and focus groups with 26 stakeholders (providers, nurses, case managers, and clinic staff). Interviews covered barriers to care, provider communication, and concerns or suggestions about mHealth interventions. The research team used thematic analysis to review interview transcripts. In the second phase, human-centered design processes informed adaptation of the existing PL platform using data from real-time use suggestions of 3 young adults with HIV. Throughout the formative evaluation and adaptation, a Youth Advisory Board (YAB) provided input. Results: Young adults with HIV and stakeholders identified common elements of an mHealth intervention that would support care engagement including: the convenience of addressing needs through the app, online support groups to support interconnection, short videos or live chats with other young adults with HIV or providers, appointment and medication reminders, and medical information from a trustworthy source. Stakeholders also mentioned the need for youth empowerment. Concerns included worries about confidentiality, unintentional disclosures of status, urgent content in an unmoderated forum, and the impersonality of online platforms. Design suggestions from young adults with HIV included suggestions on appearance, new formatting for usability of the online support group, and prioritization of local content. Based on the feedback received, iterative changes were made to transform PL into Positive Links for Youth (PL4Y). Final votes on adaptations were made by the YAB. The overall appearance of the platform was changed, including logo, color, and font. The online support group was divided into 3 channels which support hashtags and content searches. The ``Resources'' and ``Frequently Asked Questions'' sections were condensed and revised to prioritize South Texas--specific content. Conclusions: Our assets-based framework supported young adults with HIV and stakeholder input in the transformation of an mHealth intervention to meet the needs of 18- to 29-year-olds in South Texas. The human-centered design approach allowed young adults with HIV to suggest specific changes to the intervention's design to support usability and acceptability. This adapted version, PL4Y, is now ready for pilot testing in the final phase of this implementation science project. ", doi="10.2196/60531", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60531" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/72469, author="McAlister, Kelsey and Baez, Lara and Huberty, Jennifer and Kerppola, Marianna", title="Chatbot to Support the Mental Health Needs of Pregnant and Postpartum Women (Moment for Parents): Design and Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="9", pages="e72469", keywords="perinatal support", keywords="human-centered design", keywords="digital health", keywords="maternal health", keywords="chatbot", keywords="digital tool", abstract="Background: Maternal mental health disorders are prevalent, yet many individuals do not receive adequate support due to stigma, financial constraints, and limited access to care. Digital interventions, particularly chatbots, have the potential to provide scalable, low-cost support, but few are tailored specifically to the needs of perinatal individuals. Objective: This study aimed to (1) design and develop Moment for Parents, a tailored chatbot for perinatal mental health education and support, and (2) assess usability through engagement, usage patterns, and user experience. Methods: This study used a human-centered design to develop Moment for Parents, a rules-based chatbot to support pregnant and postpartum individuals. In phase 1, ethnographic interviews (n=43) explored user needs to inform chatbot development. In phase 2, a total of 108 pregnant and postpartum individuals were recruited to participate in a pilot test and had unrestricted access to the chatbot. Engagement was tracked over 8 months to assess usage patterns and re-engagement rates. After 1 month, participants completed a usability, relevance, and satisfaction survey, providing key insights for refining the chatbot. Results: Key themes that came from the ethnographic interviews in phase 1 included the need for trusted resources, emotional support, and better mental health guidance. These insights informed chatbot content, including mood-based exercises and coping strategies. Re-engagement was high (69/108, 63.9\%), meaning users who had stopped interacting for at least 1 week returned to the chatbot at least once. A large proportion (28/69, 40.6\%) re-engaged 3 or more times. Overall, 28/30 (93.3\%) found the chatbot relevant for them, though some noted repetitive content and limited response options. Conclusions: The Moment for Parents chatbot successfully engaged pregnant and postpartum individuals with higher-than-typical retention and re-engagement patterns. The findings underscore the importance of flexible, mood-based digital support tailored to perinatal needs. Future research should examine how intermittent chatbot use influences mental health outcomes and refine content delivery to enhance long-term engagement and effectiveness. ", doi="10.2196/72469", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e72469" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60484, author="Maddah, Noha and Verma, Arpana and Ainsworth, John", title="Opportunities and Challenges Surrounding the Use of Wearable Sensor Bracelets for Infectious Disease Detection During Hajj: Qualitative Interview Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="9", pages="e60484", keywords="wearable sensor", keywords="unified theory of acceptance and use of technology", keywords="task-technology fit", keywords="hajj", keywords="presymptomatic detection", keywords="infectious diseases", keywords="artificial intelligence", abstract="Background: Wearable sensor bracelets have gained interest for their ability to detect symptomatic and presymptomatic infections through alterations in physiological indicators. Nevertheless, the use of these devices for public health surveillance among attendees of large-scale events such as hajj, the Islamic religious mass gathering held in Saudi Arabia, is currently in a nascent phase. Objective: This study aimed to explore hajj stakeholders' perspectives on the use of wearable sensor bracelets for disease detection. Methods: We conducted a qualitative, theoretically informed, interview-based study from March 2022 to October 2023 involving a diverse sample of hajj stakeholders, including technology experts, health care providers, and hajj service providers. The study was guided by the task-technology fit model and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the acceptance and use of the technology. Semistructured in-depth interviews were used to capture perspectives on using wearable sensor bracelets for infectious disease detection during hajj. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts was conducted. Results: A total of 14 individuals were interviewed. In total, 4 main themes and 13 subthemes emerged from the study, highlighting crucial challenges, considerations, recommendations, and opportunities in the use of wearable sensor bracelets for the presymptomatic detection of infectious diseases during hajj. Implementing wearable sensor bracelets for disease detection during hajj faces obstacles from multiple perspectives, encompassing users, implementing stakeholders, and technological factors. Hajj stakeholders were concerned about the substantial financial and operational barriers. The motivation of implementing stakeholders and users is essential for the acceptance and uptake of devices during hajj. Successful integration of wearables into the hajj surveillance system depends on several factors, including infrastructure, device features, suitable use cases, training, and a smooth organizational integration process. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the potential opportunities and challenges of adopting wearable sensor bracelets for disease detection during hajj. It offers essential factors to consider and important suggestions to enhance comprehension and ensure the effective implementation of this technology. ", doi="10.2196/60484", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60484" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66966, author="S{\o}rensen, Marie Nikita and Skaarnes, Helene and Mathiasen, Kim and Thastum, Mikael and Lomholt, Jeppesen Johanne", title="Developing an Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Intervention for Adolescents With Anxiety Disorders: Design, Usability, and Initial Evaluation of the CoolMinds Intervention", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="9", pages="e66966", keywords="user-centered design", keywords="digital treatment", keywords="digital mental health", keywords="internet-based", keywords="cognitive behavioral therapy", keywords="anxiety", keywords="adolescents", abstract="Background: Digital mental health interventions may help increase access to psychological treatment for adolescents with anxiety disorders. However, many clinical evaluations of digital treatments report low adherence and engagement and high dropout rates, which remain challenges when the interventions are implemented in routine care. Involving intended end users in the development process through user-centered design methods may help maximize user engagement and establish the validity of interventions for implementation. Objective: This study aimed to describe the methods used to develop a new internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy intervention, CoolMinds, within a user-centered design framework. Methods: The development of intervention content progressed in three iterative design phases: (1) identifying needs and design specifications, (2) designing and testing prototypes, and (3) running feasibility tests with end users. In phase 1, a total of 24 adolescents participated in a user involvement workshop exploring their preferences on graphic identity and communication styles as well as their help-seeking behavior. In phase 2, a total of 4 adolescents attended individual usability tests in which they were presented with a prototype of a psychoeducational session and asked to think aloud about their actions on the platform. In phase 3, a total of 7 families from the feasibility trial participated in a semistructured interview about their satisfaction with and initial impressions of the platform and intervention content while in treatment. Activities in all 3 phases were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using thematic analysis and qualitative description design. The intervention was continuously revised after each phase based on the feedback. Results: In phase 1, adolescent feedback guided the look and feel of the intervention content (ie, color scheme, animation style, and communication style). Participants generally liked content that was relatable and age appropriate and felt motivating. Animations that resembled ``humans'' received more votes as adolescents could better ``identify'' themselves with them. Communication should preferably be ``supportive'' and feel ``like a friend'' talking to them. Statements including praise---such as ``You're well on your way. How are you today?''---received the most votes (12 votes), whereas directive statements such as ``Tell us how your day has been?'' and ``How is practicing your steps going?'' received the least votes (2 and 0 votes, respectively). In phase 2, adolescents perceived the platform as intuitive and easy to navigate and the session content as easy to understand but lengthy. In phase 3, families were generally satisfied with the intervention content, emphasizing the helpfulness of graphic material to understand therapeutic content. Their feedback helped identify areas for further improvement, such as editing down the material and including more in-session breaks. Conclusions: Using user involvement practices in the development of interventions helps ensure continued alignment of the intervention with end-user needs and may help establish the validity of the intervention for implementation in routine care practice. ", doi="10.2196/66966", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66966" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65788, author="W{\"u}llner, Sarah and Hermenau, Katharin and Hecker, Tobias and Siniatchkin, Michael", title="The Use of Mobile Apps in Adolescent Psychotherapy: Assessment of Psychotherapists' Perspectives", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="9", pages="e65788", keywords="mental health app", keywords="psychotherapy", keywords="adolescent", keywords="mHealth", keywords="youth", keywords="feasibility", keywords="implementation", keywords="app features", keywords="barriers", keywords="drivers", abstract="Background: Therapy-accompanying mental health apps can play an important role in the psychotherapeutic treatment of adolescents. They can enhance adolescents' engagement and autonomy, provide immediate support in critical situations, and positively influence the therapeutic working alliance. Nevertheless, mental health apps are rarely used by psychotherapists. Furthermore, due to the limited or nonexistent use of apps in psychotherapy, little is known about the actual barriers and drivers affecting their integration into psychotherapists' daily routines. To better understand how mental health apps should be designed for practical use, it is essential to explore psychotherapists' perspectives on key app features and characteristics, as well as the factors influencing their integration into clinical practice. Objective: This study aims to analyze which app features and characteristics are essential for psychotherapists to use a mobile app in psychotherapy with adolescents and to identify the key drivers and barriers influencing the integration of a psychotherapeutic app from the psychotherapists' perspectives. Methods: We conducted 3 feasibility studies using Steps, a transdiagnostic, therapy-accompanying app for adolescents, across 3 different psychotherapeutic treatment contexts: inpatient treatment, treatment in psychiatric outpatient clinics, and outpatient treatment with psychotherapists in private practice. All studies followed a qualitative quasi-experimental design. Participants provided information on their age, occupation, years of work experience, media affinity, attitudes toward psychotherapeutic apps, perceived app quality and feasibility, and the implementation process of the therapy-accompanying app. Qualitative data were analyzed using deductive qualitative content analysis. A total of 40 mental health professionals participated across the 3 studies (study 1: n=18; study 2: n=13; study 3: n=9). Results: Study participation and app usage rates were low across all studies. Six core features for a transdiagnostic, therapy-accompanying app were identified: mood checks, library, reminders, goals and tasks, emergency kit, and questionnaires. Additionally, the integration of mental health apps into daily routines was influenced by various drivers and barriers. The most significant barriers included technological issues and practical constraints, such as limited time and resources. The most important driver was the perceived improvement in treatment quality. Conclusions: Overall, psychotherapists were generally open to using a therapy-accompanying mental health app. However, study participation and app usage remained low. As psychotherapists act as gatekeepers for patients' use of mental health apps, their needs should be prioritized in the development and implementation of such apps. Trial Registration: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00031258; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00031258/details ", doi="10.2196/65788", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65788" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68179, author="Rades, Dirk and K{\"u}ter, Jan-Dirk and von Staden, Michael and Al-Salool, Ahmed and Janssen, Stefan and Timke, Carmen and Duma, Nona Marciana and Bartscht, Tobias and Vesterg{\aa}rd Madsen, Christine and Kristiansen, Charlotte and Cremers, Florian", title="A Reminder App to Optimize Bladder Filling During Radiotherapy for Patients With Prostate Cancer (REFILL-PAC): Protocol for a Prospective Trial", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="Apr", day="8", volume="14", pages="e68179", keywords="prostate cancer", keywords="external beam radiation therapy", keywords="radiation toxicity", keywords="bladder filling", keywords="mobile app", abstract="Background: Many patients with nonmetastatic prostate cancer receive radiotherapy, which may be associated with acute cystitis, particularly if the volume of the urinary bladder is small. Three studies showed bladder volumes <200 ml or <180 ml to be associated with increased urinary toxicity. Therefore, it is important to maintain bladder volumes greater than 200 ml during as many radiation fractions as possible. Several studies investigated drinking protocols, where patients were asked to drink a certain amount of water prior to radiotherapy sessions. This may require considerable discipline from the patients, who are predominantly older adults. Adherence to a drinking protocol may be facilitated by a mobile app that reminds patients to drink water prior to each radiation session. This study investigates the effect of such an app on bladder filling status in patients with prostate cancer undergoing external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) alone. Objective: The primary goal of this study is to evaluate the impact of an app that reminds patients irradiated for prostate cancer to drink 300 ml of water prior to each radiotherapy session on the number of fractions with bladder volumes <200 ml during the radiotherapy course. Methods: This ongoing phase 2 aims to recruit 28 patients treated with EBRT alone for nonmetastatic prostate cancer. Radiotherapy will be administered using normo-fractionation, with doses ranging from 70 to 80 Gy in 35 to 40 fractions of 2 Gy, preferably with volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Treatment volumes include the prostate with or without the seminal vesicles. Results: Recruitment for this trial will start in March 2025 and is planned to be completed in October 2026. The study is scheduled to conclude in December 2026. Conclusions: This trial is the first to evaluate the impact of a reminder app on the number of radiotherapy fractions with bladder volumes <200 ml in patients undergoing irradiation for localized prostate cancer. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT06653751; https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT06653751 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/68179 ", doi="10.2196/68179", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e68179" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59942, author="Biernetzky, A. Olga and Thyrian, Ren{\'e} Jochen and Boekholt, Melanie and Berndt, Matthias and Hoffmann, Wolfgang and Teipel, J. Stefan and Kilimann, Ingo", title="Identifying Unmet Needs of Informal Dementia Caregivers in Clinical Practice: User-Centered Development of a Digital Assessment Tool", journal="JMIR Aging", year="2025", month="Apr", day="7", volume="8", pages="e59942", keywords="unmet needs", keywords="assessment development", keywords="family caregivers of people with dementia", keywords="dementia", keywords="need", keywords="Alzheimer", keywords="self-guided", keywords="self-reported", keywords="caregiver", keywords="informal care", keywords="spousal care", keywords="interview", keywords="qualitative", keywords="thematic", keywords="usability", keywords="mHealth", keywords="tablet", keywords="self-completed", keywords="aging", keywords="patient care", keywords="health interventions", keywords="care giver", keywords="digital health", keywords="ehealth", keywords="digital assessment", keywords="memory", abstract="Background: Despite the increasing interventions to support family caregivers of people with dementia, service planning and delivery is still not effective. Objective: Our study aimed to develop a digitally-supported needs assessment tool for family caregivers of people with dementia that is feasible, time-efficient, understood by users, and can be self-completed in the primary care setting. Methods: The development of the unmet needs assessment tool was part of a cluster-randomized controlled trial examining the effectiveness of a digitally supported care management programme to reduce unmet needs of family caregivers of people with dementia (GAIN [Gesund Angeh{\"o}rige Pflegen]) and was conducted in 3 phases. Using an iterative participatory approach with informal caregivers, health care professionals including general practitioners, neurologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, and Alzheimer Society representatives, we developed a digital self-completion unmet needs assessment tool focusing on informal caregivers' biopsychosocial health und quality of life in connection to their caregiver responsibilities. Data were collected through group discussions, written feedback, protocols, think-aloud protocols, and interviews, and analyzed thematically. Results: Data from 27 caregivers, including caregivers of people with dementia (n=18), health care professionals (n=7), and Alzheimer Society representatives (n=2) were collected. Thematic analysis identified 2 main themes: content of the assessment tool and usability and handling of the digital tablet-based assessment tool. The feedback provided by the stakeholders led to new aspects and changes to make the tool comprehensive, easy to read, and easy to handle. The overall mean completion time was reduced from the initial 37 minutes to 18 minutes, which renders the assessment tool fit to be self-completed in waiting rooms of primary care practices or other settings. Conclusions: The input of the 3 stakeholder groups has supported the development of the assessment tool ensuring that all aspects considered important were covered and understood and the completion of the assessment procedure was time-efficient and practically feasible. Further validation of the assessment tool will be performed with the data generated as part of the GAIN trial. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04037501; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04037501 ", doi="10.2196/59942", url="https://aging.jmir.org/2025/1/e59942" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67294, author="Jones, D. Caleb and Wasilko, Rachel and Zhang, Gehui and Stone, L. Katie and Gujral, Swathi and Rodakowski, Juleen and Smagula, F. Stephen", title="Detecting Sleep/Wake Rhythm Disruption Related to Cognition in Older Adults With and Without Mild Cognitive Impairment Using the myRhythmWatch Platform: Feasibility and Correlation Study", journal="JMIR Aging", year="2025", month="Apr", day="7", volume="8", pages="e67294", keywords="sleep", keywords="sleep/wake", keywords="circadian", keywords="activity pattern", keywords="dementia", keywords="cognition", keywords="mobile sensing", keywords="actigraphy", keywords="accelerometer", abstract="Background: Consumer wearable devices could, in theory, provide sufficient accelerometer data for measuring the 24-hour sleep/wake risk factors for dementia that have been identified in prior research. To our knowledge, no prior study in older adults has demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of accessing sufficient consumer wearable accelerometer data to compute 24-hour sleep/wake rhythm measures. Objective: We aimed to establish the feasibility of characterizing 24-hour sleep/wake rhythm measures using accelerometer data gathered from the Apple Watch in older adults with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and to examine correlations of these sleep/wake rhythm measures with neuropsychological test performance. Methods: Of the 40 adults enrolled (mean [SD] age 67.2 [8.4] years; 72.5\% female), 19 had MCI and 21 had no cognitive disorder (NCD). Participants were provided devices, oriented to the study software (myRhythmWatch or myRW), and asked to use the system for a week. The primary feasibility outcome was whether participants collected enough data to assess 24-hour sleep/wake rhythm measures (ie, ?3 valid continuous days). We extracted standard nonparametric and extended-cosine based sleep/wake rhythm metrics. Neuropsychological tests gauged immediate and delayed memory (Hopkins Verbal Learning Test) as well as processing speed and set-shifting (Oral Trails Parts A and B). Results: All participants meet the primary feasibility outcome of providing sufficient data (?3 valid days) for sleep/wake rhythm measures. The mean (SD) recording length was somewhat shorter in the MCI group at 6.6 (1.2) days compared with the NCD group at 7.2 (0.6) days. Later activity onset times were associated with worse delayed memory performance ($\beta$=?.28). More fragmented rhythms were associated with worse processing speed ($\beta$=.40). Conclusions: Using the Apple Watch-based myRW system to gather raw accelerometer data is feasible in older adults with and without MCI. Sleep/wake rhythms variables generated from this system correlated with cognitive function, suggesting future studies can use this approach to evaluate novel, scalable, risk factor characterization and targeted therapy approaches. ", doi="10.2196/67294", url="https://aging.jmir.org/2025/1/e67294" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/62741, author="Mbeya-Munkhondya, E. Tiwonge and Meek, J. Caroline and Mphande, Mtisunge and Tembo, A. Tapiwa and Chitani, J. Mike and Jean-Baptiste, Milenka and Kumbuyo, Caroline and Vansia, Dhrutika and Simon, R. Katherine and Rutstein, E. Sarah and Mwapasa, Victor and Go, Vivian and Kim, H. Maria and Rosenberg, E. Nora", title="Anticipated Acceptability of Blended Learning Among Lay Health Care Workers in Malawi: Qualitative Analysis Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="7", volume="9", pages="e62741", keywords="blended learning", keywords="technology acceptance model", keywords="index case testing", keywords="acceptability", keywords="partner notification", keywords="contact tracing", abstract="Background: HIV index case testing (ICT) aims to identify people living with HIV and their contacts, engage them in HIV testing services, and link them to care. ICT implementation has faced challenges in Malawi due to limited counseling capacity among lay health care workers (HCWs). Enhancing capacity through centralized face-to-face training is logistically complex and expensive. A decentralized blended learning approach to HCW capacity-building, combining synchronous face-to-face and asynchronous digital modalities, may be an acceptable way to address this challenge. Objective: The objective of this analysis is to describe factors influencing HCW anticipated acceptability of blended learning using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Methods: This formative qualitative study involved conducting 26 in-depth interviews with HCWs involved in the ICT program across 14 facilities in Machinga and Balaka, Malawi (November-December 2021). Results were analyzed thematically using TAM. Themes were grouped into factors affecting the 2 sets of TAM constructs: perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Results: A total of 2 factors influenced perceived usefulness. First, HCWs found the idea of self-guided digital learning appealing, as they believed it would allow for reinforcement, which would facilitate competence. They also articulated the need for opportunities to practice and receive feedback through face-to-face interactions in order to apply the digital components. In total, 5 factors influenced perceived ease of use. First, HCWs expressed a need for orientation to the digital technology given limited digital literacy. Second, they requested accessibility of devices provided by their employer, as many lacked personal devices. Third, they wished for adequate communication surrounding their training schedules, especially if they were going to be asynchronous. Fourth, they wished for support for logistical arrangements to avoid work interruptions. Finally, they wanted monetary compensation to motivate learning, a practice comparable with offsite trainings. Conclusions: A decentralized blended learning approach may be an acceptable method of enhancing ICT knowledge and skills among lay HCWs in Malawi, although a broad range of external factors need to be considered. Our next step is to integrate these findings into a blended learning package and examine perceived acceptability of the package in the context of a cluster randomized controlled trial. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077706 ", doi="10.2196/62741", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e62741" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70149, author="Ajayi, Toluwalase and Kueper, Jacqueline and Ariniello, Lauren and Ho, Diana and Delgado, Felipe and Beal, Matthew and Waalen, Jill and Baca Motes, Katie and Ramos, Edward", title="Digital Health Platform for Maternal Health: Design, Recruitment Strategies, and Lessons Learned From the PowerMom Observational Cohort Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="7", volume="9", pages="e70149", keywords="maternal health research", keywords="digital health platforms", keywords="pregnancy monitoring", keywords="decentralized clinical trials", keywords="participant engagement", keywords="health disparities", abstract="Background: Maternal health research faces challenges in participant recruitment, retention, and data collection, particularly among underrepresented populations. Digital health platforms like PowerMom (Scripps Research) offer scalable solutions, enabling decentralized, real-world data collection. Using innovative recruitment and multimodal techniques, PowerMom engages diverse cohorts to gather longitudinal and episodic data during pregnancy and post partum. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the design, implementation, and outcomes of the PowerMom research platform, with a focus on participant recruitment, engagement, and data collection across diverse populations. Secondary objectives included identifying challenges encountered during implementation and deriving lessons to inform future digital maternal health studies. Methods: Participants were recruited via digital advertisements, pregnancy apps, and the PowerMom Consortium of more than 15 local and national organizations. Data collection included self-reported surveys, wearable devices, and electronic health records. Anomaly detection measures were implemented to address fraudulent enrollment activity. Recruitment trends and descriptive statistics from survey data were analyzed to summarize participant characteristics, assess engagement metrics, and quantify missing data to identify gaps. Results: Overall, 5617 participants were enrolled from 2021 to 2024, with 69.8\% (n=3922) providing demographic data. Of these, 48.5\% (2723/5617) were younger than 35 years, 14\% (788/5617) identified as Hispanic or Latina, and 13.7\% (770/5617) identified as Black or African American. Geographic representation spanned all 50 US states, Puerto Rico, and Guam, with 58.3\% (3276/5617) residing in areas with moderate access to maternity care and 16.4\% (919/5617) in highly disadvantaged neighborhoods based on the Area Deprivation Index. Enrollment rates increased substantially over the study period, from 55 participants in late 2021 to 3310 in 2024, averaging 99.4 enrollments per week in 2024. Participants completed a total of 17,123 surveys, with 71.8\% (4033/5617) completing the Intake Survey and 12.4\% (697/5617) completing the Postpartum Survey. Wearable device data were shared by 1168 participants, providing more than 378,000 daily biometric measurements, including activity levels, sleep, and heart rate. Additionally, 96 participants connected their electronic health records, contributing 276 data points such as diagnoses, medications, and laboratory results. Among pregnancy-related characteristics, 28.1\% (1578/5617) enrolled during the first trimester, while 15.1\% (849/5617) reported information about the completion of their pregnancies during the study period. Among the 913 participants who shared delivery information, 56.1\% (n=512) had spontaneous vaginal deliveries and 17.9\% (n=163) underwent unplanned cesarean sections. Conclusions: The PowerMom platform demonstrates the feasibility of using digital tools to recruit and engage diverse populations in maternal health research. Its ability to integrate multimodal data sources showcases its potential to provide comprehensive maternal-fetal health insights. Challenges with data completeness and survey attrition underscore the need for sustained participant engagement strategies. These findings offer valuable lessons for scaling digital health platforms and addressing disparities in maternal health research. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03085875; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03085875 ", doi="10.2196/70149", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70149" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/70594, author="Balki, Eric", title="Are Dating App Algorithms Making Men Lonely and Does This Present a Public Health Concern?", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="7", volume="9", pages="e70594", keywords="dating apps", keywords="mental health", keywords="men", keywords="algorithm", keywords="anxiety", keywords="depression", keywords="loneliness", doi="10.2196/70594", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e70594" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64449, author="Gustafson Sr, H. David and Mares, Marie-Louise and Johnston, C. Darcie and Curtin, J. John and Pe-Romashko, Klaren and Landucci, Gina", title="Comparison of Smart Display Versus Laptop Platforms for an eHealth Intervention to Improve Functional Health for Older Adults With Multiple Chronic Conditions: Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="Apr", day="3", volume="14", pages="e64449", keywords="eHealth", keywords="aged", keywords="geriatrics", keywords="functional health", keywords="multiple chronic conditions", keywords="smart display", keywords="smart speaker", keywords="primary care", keywords="quality of life", abstract="Background: Maintaining functional health, or the ability to live independently, is a primary goal of individuals as they age, but most older adults develop chronic conditions that threaten this goal. Physical activity is a key aspect of self-care that can improve functional health, and digital interventions offering guidance on appropriate exercise can help. However, older adults with multiple morbidities may be unable to use a laptop or smartphone-based eHealth because poor vision, dexterity, mobility, or other physical challenges make typing or touch navigation difficult. A smart display platform---comprising a smart speaker plus a small visual screen---has the potential to remove these barriers because it is voice-activated. Objective: The study aims to compare usage patterns of an eHealth intervention for older adults when delivered via a voice-based smart display versus a typing-based laptop, and assess whether the smart display outperforms the laptop in improving functional health and its specific physical and mental aspects. Methods: A minimum of 356 adults aged 60 years and older with at least 5 chronic health conditions are to be recruited from primary care clinics and community organizations. Participants will be randomized 1:1 to 12 months of access to an evidence-based intervention, ElderTree, delivered on either a smart display or a touchscreen laptop, with a postintervention follow-up at 18 months. The primary outcome is differences between groups on a comprehensive measure of physical and mental functional health. Secondary outcomes are between-group differences in the subscales of functional health (eg, physical function and depression), as well as measures of health distress, loneliness, unscheduled health care, and falls. We will also examine mediators and moderators of the effects of ElderTree on both platforms. Participants will complete surveys at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months, and ElderTree use data will be collected continuously during the intervention period in system logs. We will use linear mixed-effect models to evaluate outcomes over time, with treatment condition and time point as between-subjects factors. Separate analyses will be conducted for each outcome. Results: Recruitment began in July 2023 and was completed in May 2024, with 387 participants enrolled. The 12-month intervention period will end in May 2025; data collection will end in November 2025. Findings will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications. Conclusions: Voice-activated digital health interventions have theoretical but untested advantages over typing-based technologies for older adults with physical limitations. As the population ages, and as multiple morbidities threaten the functional health of the majority of older adults, innovations in self-management are a matter of public health as well as individual quality of life. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05240534; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05240534 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/64449 ", doi="10.2196/64449", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e64449", url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/40080672" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65412, author="Blomenkamp, Maja and Kiesel, Andrea and Baumeister, Harald and Lehr, Dirk and Unterrainer, Josef and Sander, B. Lasse and Spanhel, Kerstin", title="Assessing the Cultural Fit of a Digital Sleep Intervention for Refugees in Germany: Qualitative Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="3", volume="9", pages="e65412", keywords="Ukraine", keywords="eHealth", keywords="sleep disturbances", keywords="low-threshold treatment", keywords="culturally sensitive treatment", keywords="refugee", keywords="digital sleep", keywords="Germany", keywords="digital intervention", keywords="interview", keywords="content analysis", keywords="qualitative study", keywords="mental burden", keywords="mental health care", keywords="electronic health", keywords="digital health", abstract="Background: Digital interventions have been suggested to facilitate access to mental health care for refugees, who experience structural, linguistic, and cultural barriers to mental health care. Sleep-e, a digital sleep intervention originally developed for German teachers, has been culturally adapted for refugees in Germany mainly coming from African and Middle East countries. With the increasing number of refugees from Ukraine and the associated diversity of cultural backgrounds among refugees in Germany, it is essential to assess whether existing digital interventions are culturally appropriate for this target group as well. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the perceived cultural appropriateness of Sleep-e in both its original and culturally adapted versions among refugees in Germany, hereby exploring and possibly contrasting the needs of refugees coming from Ukraine and other countries of origin. Methods: Overall, 13 refugees (6 from Ukraine, 23-66 years old; and 7 from other countries, 26-41 years old) participated in the study. Each participant went through parts of the original or culturally adapted version of the digital sleep intervention, with 5 participants going through both versions. A total of 17 semistructured interviews (11 for the adapted, 6 for the nonadapted intervention version) and 9 think-aloud sessions (6 for the adapted, 3 for the nonadapted intervention version) were conducted to assess cultural appropriateness, suggestions for adaptations, and perceived relevance. Data were transcribed, categorized, and analyzed using structured qualitative content analysis. Results: The findings showed key differences in the perceived appropriateness and identification between the 2 refugee groups and the 2 intervention versions. Ukrainian participants expressed positive (n=70) and negative (n=56) feedback on the adapted intervention version, which revealed identity conflicts, as the adapted intervention version was targeted at a refugee population with whom they could not fully identify (18 negative feedback quotes concerning the refugee example characters). Whereas they identified with the European context in the original version, they found the problems described less relevant to their experiences. In contrast, participating refugees from other countries found the culturally adapted version more comprehensible and culturally appropriate (55 positive and 5 negative feedback quotes). No significant usability issues were reported, but several participants highlighted the need for an individualization of the intervention content. Conclusions: Neither the original nor culturally adapted version of the digital sleep intervention fully met the needs of all refugee groups, highlighting the complexity of culturally adapting digital interventions for this population. Particularly, the identity conflict of participating Ukrainian refugees regarding the refugee context suggests that adaptation should go beyond regional considerations and consider the dynamics of social identity. These findings emphasize the relevance of including co-design processes with different refugee populations to ensure broad identification and, herewith, cultural appropriateness of digital interventions. Trial Registration: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00036484; https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00036484 ", doi="10.2196/65412", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65412" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67997, author="Shourya, Shivesh and Liu, Jianfang and McInerney, Sophia and Casimir, Trinity and Kenniff, James and Kershaw, Trace and Batey, David and Schnall, Rebecca", title="A Remote Intervention Based on mHealth and Community Health Workers for Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence in People With HIV: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="2", volume="9", pages="e67997", keywords="HIV", keywords="antiretroviral therapy adherence", keywords="ART", keywords="ART adherence", keywords="mobile health technology", keywords="mHealth technology", keywords="community health workers", keywords="CHWs", keywords="smart pill bottle", keywords="feasibility evaluation", keywords="mobile health technology acceptance model", abstract="Background: Despite the availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART), only 66\% of people with HIV in the United States achieve viral suppression, largely due to suboptimal ART adherence. Barriers such as limited access to care and forgetfulness impact adherence rates, which must be maintained at ?95\% to prevent viral load rebound. Combination interventions leveraging community health worker (CHW) support and mobile health (mHealth) technologies have the potential to overcome previously identified barriers and provide cost-effective support for improving adherence and viral suppression outcomes in people with HIV. Objective: This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of remote delivery of the Community Health Worker and mHealth to Improve Viral Suppression (CHAMPS) intervention, combining the WiseApp, CHW support, and the CleverCap smart pill bottle. A secondary aim was to gather participants' feedback on the usability of the app and pill bottle as well as to better understand their experiences with remote study procedures. Methods: This mixed methods pilot study involved 40 participants with HIV, who were randomly assigned to a control group (n=20, 50\%) or the CHAMPS intervention (n=20, 50\%) over 3 months. The intervention group participated in up to 12 sessions with CHWs and used the WiseApp, paired with a CleverCap smart pill bottle, to support ART adherence. Remote baseline and follow-up visits were conducted via Zoom and included surveys measuring adherence, self-efficacy, and usability (measured by Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale [Health-ITUES] and Poststudy System Usability Questionnaire [PSSUQ]). Semistructured interviews explored participants' experiences with the intervention. Thematic analysis was used to identify key facilitators and barriers based on the Mobile Health Technology Acceptance Model. Results: Remote delivery of the CHAMPS intervention was feasible, with high usability ratings for both the WiseApp and CleverCap (overall scores on Health-ITUES: mean 4.35, SD 0.58 and PSSUQ: mean 2.04, SD 1.03). In the intervention group, there were nonsignificant improvements in self-reported adherence scores (P=.29) and in self-efficacy scores (P=.07). The adjusted odds ratio for achieving undetectable viral load in the intervention group compared to the control group was 3.01 (95\% CI --1.59 to 4.12), indicating a medium effect size in favor of the intervention. Overall study retention was 75\% (30/40), with higher retention in the control group. Participants valued the flexibility of remote study procedures, particularly Zoom-based study visits and mailed blood sample kits. Qualitative feedback highlighted the intervention's acceptability and ability to overcome logistical barriers. Conclusions: The remote CHAMPS pilot study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of combining mHealth tools with CHW support to promote medication adherence among people with HIV. While further optimization is needed to enhance its impact, this intervention shows potential for improving health outcomes in diverse underserved populations. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05938413; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05938413 ", doi="10.2196/67997", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67997" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68242, author="Pereira, P. Ana and Janela, Dora and Areias, C. Anabela and Molinos, Maria and Tong, Xin and Bento, Virg{\'i}lio and Yanamadala, Vijay and Atherton, Jennesa and Dias Correia, Fernando and Costa, Fab{\'i}ola", title="Innovating Care for Postmenopausal Women Using a Digital Approach for Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions: Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study", journal="JMIR Mhealth Uhealth", year="2025", month="Apr", day="2", volume="13", pages="e68242", keywords="women's health", keywords="pelvic floor muscle training", keywords="physical therapy", keywords="menopause", keywords="digital therapeutics", keywords="biofeedback", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: The menopause transition is a significant life milestone that impacts quality of life and work performance. Among menopause-related conditions, pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFDs) affect ?40\%?50\% of postmenopausal women, including urinary or fecal incontinence, genito-pelvic pain, and pelvic organ prolapse. While pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is the primary treatment, access barriers leave many untreated, advocating for new care delivery models. Objective: This study aims to assess the outcomes of a digital pelvic program, combining PFMT and education, in postmenopausal women with PFDs. Methods: This prospective, longitudinal study evaluated engagement, safety, and clinical outcomes of a remote digital pelvic program among postmenopausal women (n=3051) with PFDs. Education and real-time biofeedback PFMT sessions were delivered through a mobile app. The intervention was asynchronously monitored and tailored by a physical therapist specializing in pelvic health. Clinical measures assessed pelvic floor symptoms and their impact on daily life (Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire--short form 7, Urinary Impact Questionnaire--short form 7, Colorectal-Anal Impact Questionnaire--short form 7, and Pelvic Organ Prolapse Impact Questionnaire--short form 7), mental health, and work productivity and activity impairment. Structural equation modeling and minimal clinically important change response rates were used for analysis. Results: The digital pelvic program had a high completion rate of 77.6\% (2367/3051), as well as a high engagement and satisfaction level (8.6 out of 10). The safety of the intervention was supported by the low number of adverse events reported (21/3051, 0.69\%). The overall impact of pelvic floor symptoms in participants' daily lives decreased significantly (?19.55 points, 95\% CI ?22.22 to ?16.88; P<.001; response rate of 59.5\%, 95\% CI 54.9\%-63.9\%), regardless of condition. Notably, nonwork-related activities and productivity impairment were reduced by around half at the intervention-end (?18.09, 95\% CI ?19.99 to ?16.20 and ?15.08, 95\% CI ?17.52 to ?12.64, respectively; P<.001). Mental health also improved, with 76.1\% (95\% CI 60.7\%-84.9\%; unadjusted: 97/149, 65.1\%) and 54.1\% (95\% CI 39\%-68.5\%; unadjusted: 70/155, 45.2\%) of participants with moderate to severe symptomatology achieving the minimal clinically important change for anxiety and depression, respectively. Recovery was generally not influenced by the higher baseline symptoms' burden in individuals with younger age, high BMI, social deprivation, and residence in urban areas, except for pelvic health symptoms where lower BMI levels (P=.02) and higher social deprivation (P=.04) were associated with a steeper recovery. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility, safety, and positive clinical outcomes of a fully remote digital pelvic program to significantly improve PFD symptoms, mental health, and work productivity in postmenopausal women while enhancing equitable access to personalized interventions that empower women to manage their condition and improve their quality of life. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05513417; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05513417 ", doi="10.2196/68242", url="https://mhealth.jmir.org/2025/1/e68242" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69609, author="Adegboyega, Adebola and Wiggins, Amanda and Wuni, Abubakari and Ickes, Melinda", title="The Impact of a Human Papillomavirus Facebook-Based Intervention (\#HPVVaxTalks) Among Young Black (African American and Sub-Saharan African Immigrants) Adults: Pilot Pre- and Poststudy", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="2", volume="9", pages="e69609", keywords="human papillomavirus vaccination", keywords="HPV vaccination", keywords="Facebook-based intervention", keywords="young Black adults", keywords="social media", abstract="Background: Despite the availability of prophylactic human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, uptake remains suboptimal among young Black adults. Social media is a platform for the dissemination of health information and can be used to promote HPV vaccination among young Black adults. Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of a Facebook-based intervention (\#HPVVaxTalks), which consisted of 40 posts over 8 weeks in improving cognitive outcomes, reducing vaccine hesitancy, and increasing vaccine intention, and uptake among young Black adults aged 18-26 years. Methods: A pilot 1-group pre- and poststudy was conducted among 43 young Black adults who engaged in an 8-week Facebook intervention (\#HPVVaxTalks). \#HPVVaxTalks was developed in collaboration with a youth community advisory committee. Participants were actively recruited by research staff from community settings using flyers, and flyers were posted in public places in communities. Eligible participants were screened for eligibility and consented prior to study participation. Participants completed baseline surveys and were added to a Facebook page created for the study to receive intervention posts. Participants completed pre- and postdata on HPV knowledge, HPV vaccine knowledge, vaccine hesitancy, and vaccine uptake via REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) surveys distributed by email. Participants' satisfaction with the intervention was collected via individual interviews. Data were analyzed using 2-tailed paired t tests and repeated measures analysis Results: Overall, 32 of the 43 (74\%) participants completed the follow-up survey, and of the 23 participants who reported not having ever received the vaccine at baseline, 7 (30\%) reported receiving the vaccine at follow-up. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in HPV knowledge and receiving the vaccine at follow-up. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in HPV knowledge (pre: mean 7.3, SD 4.2 and post: mean 11.1, SD 4.3; P=.004) and HPV vaccine knowledge (pre: mean 2.8, SD 2.5 and post: mean 4.7, SD 2.2; P=.003) and reduction in vaccine hesitancy (pre: mean 28.3, SD 4.2 and post: mean 29.9, SD 3.6; P=.007) after the intervention. However, there were no significant changes in other outcomes. Feedback from open-ended questions and qualitative interviews highlighted participants' satisfaction with the intervention and its role in increasing HPV and HPV vaccine awareness. Conclusions: The findings from this study underscore the potential of social media platforms for health promotion among underrepresented populations and the importance of advocating for culturally appropriate interventions to improve HPV vaccination rates and reduce disparities. ", doi="10.2196/69609", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69609" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68249, author="Lattie, G. Emily and Beltzer, Miranda and Varra, Alethea and Chen, E. Connie and Lungu, Anita", title="Examining the Client Experience of Digital Tools in Blended Care Therapy: Qualitative Interview Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="2", volume="9", pages="e68249", keywords="anxiety", keywords="depression", keywords="blended care therapy", keywords="mental health care", keywords="digital mental health", keywords="digital tools", keywords="qualitative interviews", keywords="Lyra Care Therapy", keywords="video lesson", keywords="symptom assessment", keywords="written exercise", keywords="thematic analysis", keywords="LCT model", keywords="therapeutic value", keywords="client experience", abstract="Background: Lyra Health's short-term blended care therapy model, Lyra Care Therapy (LCT), has demonstrated effectiveness at scale. In LCT, clients participate in synchronous telehealth sessions and asynchronous guided practice sessions, in which they are provided with digital tools to reinforce key concepts and skills. These digital tools include animated video lessons that use storytelling to show characters learning and implementing new skills from therapy, written psychoeducational materials, interactive exercises that prompt reflection and skills practice, symptom assessments, and messaging with therapists. Past research on LCT found that time spent in therapy sessions and viewing digital video lessons predicts improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms. Objective: This study aims to explore the client experience of LCT digital tools and to understand clients' perceived benefits and challenges of using digital tools while in LCT. Methods: In total, 12 ethnically and racially diverse adults (5 male, 6 female, and 1 pangender) who had graduated from LCT in the previous 4 months participated in semistructured interviews. Interviews focused on experiences with the digital components of LCT (ie, video lessons, symptom assessments, and written exercises). Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analytic methods to determine the benefits and challenges associated with components of the LCT model. Results: In total, 3 primary themes were generated through thematic analysis. These themes centered around supporting knowledge and skill development, the benefits and challenges associated with the range of digital tools, and the combination of flexibility and accountability promoting positive change. First, we summarize the ways in which guided practice sessions allow clients to develop additional knowledge and learn skills related to their mental health and well-being. Then, we describe how the range of digital tools included in LCT presents different benefits and challenges for clients. Finally, we discuss how flexibility inherent in having both synchronous and asynchronous sessions, along with the accountability from a provider, encourages clients to continue to practice skills related to their mental health and well-being. Conclusions: Results provide insights into the unique contributions of different components of the LCT model on therapeutic gains. While perceived time constraints and content preferences can impact engagement with digital tools, overall the digital tools were perceived as carrying significant value for participants in the LCT program. ", doi="10.2196/68249", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68249" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/68149, author="Hong, Seojin and Choi, Hyun and Kweon, Hyosun", title="Medical Device Based on a Virtual Reality--Based Upper Limb Rehabilitation Software: Usability Evaluation Through Cognitive Walkthrough", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="1", volume="9", pages="e68149", keywords="usability", keywords="cognitive walkthrough", keywords="virtual reality-based upper limb rehabilitation software", keywords="upper limb", keywords="limb rehabilitation", keywords="rehabilitation", keywords="therapist", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="VR", keywords="medical device", keywords="formative evaluation", keywords="quantitative", keywords="qualitative", keywords="occupational therapy", keywords="user safety", keywords="usability testing", keywords="software", keywords="risk factor", abstract="Background: The use of virtual reality (VR) technology in rehabilitation therapy has been growing, leading to the development of VR-based upper-limb rehabilitation softwares. To ensure the effective use of such software, usability evaluations are critical to enhance user satisfaction and identify potential usability issues. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the usability of a VR-based upper-limb rehabilitation software from the perspective of occupational therapists. Specifically, the study seeks to identify usability challenges and provide insights to improve user satisfaction. Methods: The VR-based upper-limb rehabilitation software was tailored for therapists to operate while delivering therapy to patients. Usability testing was conducted with occupational therapists from the Korean National Rehabilitation Center using cognitive walkthroughs and surveys. Participants performed tasks that simulated real clinical scenarios, including turning the device on, assisting patients with wearing the device, and shutting it down. Observers recorded user reactions during task performance, and participants completed surveys to assess the ease of use of the user interface. This mixed-methods approach provided qualitative insights into user difficulties and their root causes. Results: Usability evaluations were conducted with 6 participants. Cognitive walkthroughs revealed potential areas for improvement in the software, including (1) enhancements to the graphical user interface for ease of use, (2) refinements in the natural user interface, and (3) better user manuals for clearer product instructions. The ease-of-use score for the user interface averaged 1.58 on a 5-point scale (1=very easy to 5=very difficult). Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into improving user satisfaction by focusing on the needs of occupational therapists who operate a VR-based rehabilitation software. Future research should explore software refinement and clinical efficacy to maximize the therapeutic potential of such technologies. ", doi="10.2196/68149", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e68149" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65000, author="Shen, Yufei and Choto Olivier, Alicia and Yu, Han and Ito-Masui, Asami and Sakamoto, Ryota and Shimaoka, Motomu and Sano, Akane", title="Personalized Physician-Assisted Sleep Advice for Shift Workers: Algorithm Development and Validation Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Apr", day="1", volume="9", pages="e65000", keywords="cognitive behavioral therapy", keywords="CBT", keywords="health care workers", keywords="machine learning", keywords="medical safety", keywords="web-based intervention", keywords="app-based intervention", keywords="shift work", keywords="shift work sleep disorders", keywords="shift workers", keywords="sleep disorder", keywords="wearable sensors", keywords="well-being", abstract="Background: In the modern economy, shift work is prevalent in numerous occupations. However, it often disrupts workers' circadian rhythms and can result in shift work sleep disorder. Proper management of shift work sleep disorder involves comprehensive and patient-specific strategies, some of which are similar to cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. Objective: Our goal was to develop and evaluate machine learning algorithms that predict physicians' sleep advice using wearable and survey data. We developed a web- and app-based system to provide individualized sleep and behavior advice based on cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia for shift workers. Methods: Data were collected for 5 weeks from shift workers (N=61) in the intensive care unit at 2 hospitals in Japan. The data comprised 3 modalities: Fitbit data, survey data, and sleep advice. After the first week of enrollment, physicians reviewed Fitbit and survey data to provide sleep advice and selected 1 to 5 messages from a list of 23 options. We handcrafted physiological and behavioral features from the raw data and identified clusters of participants with similar characteristics using hierarchical clustering. We explored 3 models (random forest, light gradient-boosting machine, and CatBoost) and 3 data-balancing approaches (no balancing, random oversampling, and synthetic minority oversampling technique) to predict selections for the 7 most frequent advice messages related to bedroom brightness, smartphone use, and nap and sleep duration. We tested our predictions under participant-dependent and participant-independent settings and analyzed the most important features for prediction using permutation importance and Shapley additive explanations. Results: We found that the clusters were distinguished by work shifts and behavioral patterns. For example, one cluster had days with low sleep duration and the lowest sleep quality when there was a day shift on the day before and a midnight shift on the current day. Our advice prediction models achieved a higher area under the precision-recall curve than the baseline in all settings. The performance differences were statistically significant (P<.001 for 13 tests and P=.003 for 1 test). Sensitivity ranged from 0.50 to 1.00, and specificity varied between 0.44 and 0.93 across all advice messages and dataset split settings. Feature importance analysis of our models found several important features that matched the corresponding advice messages sent. For instance, for message 7 (darken the bedroom when you go to bed), the models primarily examined the average brightness of the sleep environment to make predictions. Conclusions: Although our current system requires physician input, an accurate machine learning algorithm shows promise for automatic advice without compromising the trustworthiness of the selected recommendations. Despite its decent performance, the algorithm is currently limited to the 7 most popular messages. Further studies are needed to enable predictions for less frequent advice labels. ", doi="10.2196/65000", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65000" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63405, author="Spark, Jessica and Rowe, Elise and Alvarez-Jimenez, Mario and Bell, Imogen and Byrne, Linda and Dzafic, Ilvana and Ellinghaus, Carli and Lavoie, Suzie and Lum, Jarrad and McLean, Brooke and Thomas, Neil and Thompson, Andrew and Wadley, Greg and Whitford, Thomas and Wood, Stephen and Yuen, Pan Hok and Nelson, Barnaby", title="Integrating Virtual Reality, Neurofeedback, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Auditory Verbal Hallucinations (Hybrid): Protocol of a Pilot, Unblinded, Single-Arm Interventional Study", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="Apr", day="1", volume="14", pages="e63405", keywords="psychosis", keywords="first episode psychosis", keywords="schizophrenia", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="neurofeedback", keywords="EEG", keywords="auditory verbal hallucinations", keywords="voices", keywords="cognitive behavior therapy", keywords="youth mental health", keywords="pilot study", keywords="paracusias", keywords="paracusis", keywords="treatment", keywords="medication", keywords="psychotic disorder", keywords="efficacy", keywords="neuroscience", keywords="psychology", keywords="hybrid", keywords="adolescent", keywords="Australia", abstract="Background: Current treatments for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders have limited efficacy, with high rates of nonresponse to ``gold standard'' treatments. New approaches are therefore urgently required. Objective: The aims of this pilot study are to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and usability of Hybrid treatment (primary aim); and to explore Hybrid's treatment efficacy and engagement of treatment targets (secondary aim). The primary aim will be assessed via face-to-face user experience surveys on a (self-assessed) 5-point Likert scale (and qualitative open-ended questions) examining: (1) acceptability, (2) helpfulness, (3) engagement, and (4) perceived safety. We will also examine consent and completion rates, and the number of sessions attended. Our threshold for moving on to efficacy trials will be at least 70\% of our participants to rate 3 and above (which corresponds to agree or strongly agree) that the intervention package was acceptable, feasible, and safe. The secondary aims will be assessed by observing whether individuals achieve self-directed modulation of high-$\beta$ neurophysiological activity (neural target) and progression upwards through the VR-based exposure hierarchy (psychological target), and by assessing symptom change scores. This study developed a new treatment approach for auditory verbal hallucinations, a major symptom of psychotic disorders, that integrates advances in psychological therapy (cognitive behavioral therapy for psychosis), technology (virtual reality, VR), and neuroscience (electroencephalography-based neurofeedback). Methods: Hybrid takes a ``symptom capture'' approach using individually tailored VR-based exposure exercises. Participants (N=10) will receive the intervention package weekly over 12 face-to-face sessions. Here, participants will be progressively exposed to symptom triggers and develop methods of downregulating neural activity associated with these symptoms (neurofeedback component) while concurrently receiving clinician-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for psychosis. Results: As of February 2025, Hybrid has commenced (unblinded) recruitment activities from Orygen clinical services in Northwestern Melbourne, Australia. A total of 75 individuals have been approached and 64 individuals have been prescreened (41 individuals were deemed eligible, 15 individuals were ineligible, and 8 individuals declined or did not respond to contact attempts) and 5 individuals have been included in the study. Of the 5 individuals who have commenced the Hybrid treatment, 4 are actively engaged in the program and 1 individual has withdrawn. We expect recruitment to conclude in July 2025 and for the results to be published in 2026. Conclusions: The Hybrid study is piloting a novel approach that has the potential to address the shortcomings of current treatments for psychotic symptoms. If there is favorable evidence for the acceptability, feasibility, safety and usability of Hybrid, the study team will move on to efficacy trials. Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12624000357550; https://tinyurl.com/24ey8hpy International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/63405 ", doi="10.2196/63405", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e63405" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/63098, author="Liszio, Stefan and B{\"a}uerlein, Franziska and Hildebrand, Jens and van Nahl, Carolin and Masuch, Maic and Basu, Oliver", title="Cooperative Virtual Reality Gaming for Anxiety and Pain Reduction in Pediatric Patients and Their Caregivers During Painful Medical Procedures: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="Mar", day="31", volume="14", pages="e63098", keywords="virtual reality", keywords="extended reality", keywords="mixed reality", keywords="serious game", keywords="video game", keywords="pain", keywords="anxiety", keywords="stress", keywords="child", keywords="caregiver", keywords="patient experience", keywords="well-being", keywords="medical procedures", keywords="punctures", keywords="distraction", keywords="intervention", abstract="Background: The hospital experience is often marked by fear and pain, particularly for children undergoing medical procedures. Sedation is commonly used to alleviate patient anxiety, but it poses additional health risks. Caregivers, usually the parents, also experience emotional distress during the child's hospital stay, which can further exacerbate the child's anxiety and pain. While various interventions exist to ease patient distress, few consider the emotional well-being of caregivers. Objective: This study aims to explore the effectiveness of a cooperative virtual reality (VR) game as a novel nonpharmacological solution to reduce anxiety and pain for both pediatric patients and their caregivers during medical procedures. Specifically, we aim to investigate whether the VR game ``Sweet Dive VR'' (SDVR), designed for children aged between 6 and 12 years to play with 1 caregiver, can alleviate anxiety and pain during different types of needle punctures and Kirschner-wire removal. Methods: A prospective multicenter randomized clinical trial will be conducted. Eligible participants will be identified by scanning the hospital information system, and group allocation will follow stratified randomization. During the medical procedure, patients in the VR condition will play SDVR with a caregiver present, while patients in the control group will listen to a recording of gently crashing waves. Data collection will be carried out through self-reports of patients and caregivers using visual analog scales and questionnaires at 2 measurement time points: before and after the intervention. In addition, observation by the interviewers will occur during the intervention to capture emotional and pain reactions as well as interaction quality between patients and caregivers and smoothness of the procedure flow using a structured observation protocol. The measured variables will encompass patient affect and pain, caregiver affect, player experience, patient experience, and the flow of the procedure. Results: As of November 2024, we enrolled 39 patients and caregivers, 28 of whom completed the study. Data collection is still ongoing. Conclusions: Cooperative VR gaming, as exemplified by SDVR, emerges as a promising intervention to address anxiety and pain in pediatric patients while involving caregivers to support the emotional well-being of both parties. Our approach strives to foster positive shared experiences and to maintain trust between children and caregivers during emotionally challenging medical situations. Trial Registration: German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS) DRKS00033544; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00033544 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/63098 ", doi="10.2196/63098", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e63098" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/62749, author="Iivanainen, Sanna and Arokoski, Reetta and Mentu, Santeri and Lang, Laura and Ekstr{\"o}m, Jussi and Virtanen, Henri and Kataja, Vesa and Koivunen, Pekka Jussi", title="Development of a Comprehensive Decision Support Tool for Chemotherapy-Cycle Prescribing: Initial Usability Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="31", volume="9", pages="e62749", keywords="cancer", keywords="chemotherapy", keywords="ePRO", keywords="electronic patient-reported outcome", keywords="decision support system", abstract="Background: Chemotherapy cycle prescription is generally carried out through a multistep manual process that is prone to human error. Clinical decision support tools can provide patient-specific assessments that support clinical decisions, improve prescribing practices, and reduce medication errors. Objective: We hypothesized that a knowledge-based, patient-derived, evidence-directed decision support tool consisting of multiple modules focusing on the core duties preceding chemotherapy-cycle prescription could result in a more cost-effective and error-free approach and streamline the workflow. Methods: A 1-arm, multicenter, prospective clinical trial (``Follow-up of Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy or Targeted Therapy by Electronic Patient Reported Outcomes-tool'' [ECHO] 7/2019-1/2021; NCT04081558) was initiated to investigate the tool. The most important inclusion criteria were the presence of colorectal cancer (CRC) treated with oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy, age ?18 years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group [ECOG] performance score of 0 to 2, and internet access. A decision support tool that included digital symptom monitoring, a laboratory value interface, and treatment schedule integration for semiautomated chemotherapy cycle prescribing was integrated into the care pathway. Performance was assessed by the percentage of chemotherapy cycles with sent and completed symptom questionnaires, while perceptions of health care professionals (HCPs) on the feasibility of the approach were collected through a 1-time semistructured interview. Results: The ECHO trial included 43 patients with CRC treated with doublet or triplet chemotherapy in an adjuvant or metastatic setting. Altogether, 843 electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) symptom questionnaires were completed. Of the 15 recorded symptoms, fatigue (n=446, 52.9\%) and peripheral neuropathy (n=429, 50.9\%) were reported most often, while 137 grade 3 to 4 symptoms were recorded, of which diarrhea (n=5, 4\%) and peripheral neuropathy (n=4, 3\%) were the most common. During the study, 339 chemotherapy cycles were prescribed, and for the 77\% (n=262) of new chemotherapy cycles, ePRO questionnaire data were available within preset limits (completed within 3 days prior to chemotherapy scheduling) while 65\% of the cycles (n=221) had symptom questionnaire grading at ?1\%, and 67\% of the cycles (n=228) had laboratory values in a preset range. The recommendations by the tool for a new chemotherapy cycle were tier 1 (green; meaning ``go'') in 145 (42.8\%) of the cycles, tier 2 (yellow; ``evaluate'') in 83 (25\%), and tier 3 (red; ``hold'') in 111 (32.7\%). HCPs (n=3) were interviewed with a questionnaire (comprising 8 questions), revealing that they most valued the improved workflow, faster patient evaluation, and direct messaging option. Conclusions: In this study, we investigated the feasibility of a decision support system for chemotherapy-cycle pre-evaluation and prescription that was developed for the prospective ECHO trial. The study showed that the functionalities of the investigated tool were feasible and that an automated approach to chemotherapy-cycle prescription was possible for nearly half of the cycles. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04081558; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04081558 ", doi="10.2196/62749", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e62749" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67545, author="Han, Areum and Oster, Robert and Yuen, Hon and Jenkins, Jeremy and Hawkins, Jessica and Edwards, Lauren", title="Videoconference-Delivered Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Family Caregivers of People With Dementia: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="31", volume="9", pages="e67545", keywords="acceptance and commitment therapy", keywords="Alzheimer disease", keywords="caregivers", keywords="dementia", keywords="depression", keywords="web-based intervention", keywords="quality of life", keywords="randomized controlled trial", keywords="stress", keywords="videoconferencing", abstract="Background: Family caregivers of individuals with dementia face significant mental health challenges. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) has emerged as a promising intervention for improving these caregivers' mental health. While various delivery modes of ACT have been explored, there is a need for evidence on the efficacy of videoconference-delivered ACT programs for this population. Objective: This pilot randomized controlled trial, conducted in the United States, aims to assess the effects of a videoconference-delivered, therapist-guided ACT program on reducing depressive symptoms and improving other mental health outcomes among family caregivers with depression who give care to individuals with dementia, compared to a control group that received psychoeducation materials only. Methods: This 2-arm, parallel-group pilot randomized controlled trial randomly assigned 33 family caregivers to either a 10-week videoconference-delivered ACT program (n=16, 48\%) or a control group that received psychoeducation materials alone (n=17, 52\%). Depressive symptoms (primary outcome) were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Secondary outcomes included anxiety, stress, psychological quality of life (QoL), caregiver burden, predeath grief, guilt, and ACT process measures. Outcomes were assessed in the pretest, posttest (10-12 weeks after pretest), and a 3-month follow-up (3 months after posttest, approximately 5-6 months after pretest). An intent-to-treat approach was used for all outcome analyses. Linear mixed-effects models for repeated measures were used to analyze outcomes. Results: The ACT group reported significantly greater improvements in stress (P=.043) and psychological QoL (P=.014) in the posttest compared to the control group. Within the ACT group, participants experienced a significant decrease in depressive symptoms, with a mean (SE) change of --6.09 (1.16) points (95\% CI --8.42 to --3.76; P<.001) in the posttest and --6.71 (1.45) points (95\% CI --9.63 to --3.81; P<.001) in the 3-month follow-up. These changes exceed the estimated minimal clinically important difference on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. In addition, the ACT group reported significant improvements in anxiety, stress, psychological QoL, caregiver burden, predeath grief, guilt, values-driven action, and experiential avoidance at both posttest and 3-month follow-up. A sensitivity analysis, excluding 1 participant with near-outlier data, revealed statistically significant between-group differences in depressive symptoms at posttest (P=.037); stress at posttest (P<.001) and in 3-month follow-up (P=.001); psychological QoL at posttest (P<.001); caregiver burden at posttest (P=.003) and in 3-month follow-up (P=.003); predeath grief in 3-month follow-up (P=.031); and values-driven action at posttest (P=.032). Conclusions: The videoconference-delivered ACT program showed promise in improving mental health outcomes and ACT processes among family caregivers with depression who give care to individuals with dementia. Future studies should aim to replicate these findings with larger, more diverse caregiver populations and explore the long-term efficacy of videoconference-delivered ACT programs. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05043441; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05043441 ", doi="10.2196/67545", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67545" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67047, author="Chauhan, Anshul and Goyal, Anju and Masih, Ritika and Kaur, Gagandeep and Kumar, Lakshay and Neha, ?. and Rastogi, Harsh and Kumar, Sonam and Singh, Lord Bidhi and Syal, Preeti and Gupta, Vishali and Vale, Luke and Duggal, Mona", title="Barriers and Determinants of Referral Adherence in AI-Enabled Diabetic Retinopathy Screening for Older Adults in Northern India During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="31", volume="9", pages="e67047", keywords="diabetic retinopathy", keywords="diabetes", keywords="gerontology", keywords="geriatric", keywords="old", keywords="aging", keywords="aged", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="retinopathy", keywords="retinal", keywords="referral", keywords="screening", keywords="optometry", keywords="ophthalmology", keywords="adherence", keywords="barriers", abstract="Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness globally. DR has increasingly affected both individuals and health care systems as the population ages. Objective: This study aims to explore factors and identify barriers associated with nonadherence to referral recommendations among older adult participants after DR screening (DRS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: This paper presents findings from a pilot study on artificial intelligence--enabled DRS conducted in two districts in Punjab, India (Moga and Mohali) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The screenings were conducted from March to June 2022 at community health center Badhani Kalan in Moga and from March to June 2021 in community settings (homes) in Block Boothgarh, Mohali. Participants were referred to the district hospital for an ophthalmological review based on artificial intelligence--enabled screening. After 1 month, the participants were contacted by telephone to assess adherence to the referral recommendations. Participants who did not adhere to the referral were then interviewed alongside health care providers to understand the barriers explaining their nonadherence. Results: We aimed to recruit 346 and 600 older adult participants from 2 sites but enrolled 390. Key challenges included health facility closures due to COVID-19, low motivation among health personnel for recruitment, incomplete nonparticipation data, and high participant workloads. Approximately 45\% of the participants were male and 55\% female. Most participants (62.6\%) were between 60 and 69 years old, while 37.4\% were 70 or older, with a mean age of 67.2 (SD 6.2) years. In total, 159 participants (40.8\%) were referred, while 231 participants (59.2\%) were not. Only 23 (14.5\%) of those referred followed through and visited a health facility for ophthalmological review, while 136 (85.5\%) did not pursue further evaluation. Our analysis revealed no significant differences in the characteristics between adherent and nonadherent participants, suggesting that demographic and health factors alone do not predict adherence behavior in patients with DR. Interviews identified limited knowledge about DR, logistical challenges, financial constraints, and attitudinal barriers as the primary challenges. Conclusions: This study, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, showed suboptimal adherence to referral recommendations among older adult patients due to knowledge gaps, logistical challenges, and health system issues. Quantifying and understanding adherence factors are crucial for targeted interventions addressing barriers to referral recommendations after DRS. Integrating teleophthalmology into and strengthening infrastructure for artificial intelligence--enabled diabetic retinopathy screening to enhance access and outcomes. ", doi="10.2196/67047", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67047" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/58542, author="Hylander, Johan and Gyllencreutz, Lina and Haney, Michael and Westman, Anton", title="Ambulance Commanders' Reluctance to Enter Road Tunnels in Simulated Incidents and the Effects of a Tunnel-Specific e-Learning Course on Decision-Making: Web-Based Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="28", volume="9", pages="e58542", keywords="e-learning", keywords="major incident", keywords="incident management", keywords="disaster medicine", keywords="road tunnels", abstract="Background: The optimal response to a major incident in a road tunnel involves efficient decision-making among the responding emergency services (fire and rescue services, police, and ambulances). The infrequent occurrence of road tunnel incidents may entail unfamiliarity with the tunnel environment and lead to uncertain and inefficient decision-making among emergency services commanders. Ambulance commanders have requested tunnel-specific learning materials to improve their preparedness. Objective: We aimed to assess decision-making among ambulance commanders in simulated road tunnel incidents after they had participated in a tunnel-specific e-learning course designed to support timely and correct decisions in this context. Methods: We conducted a web-based intervention study involving 20 participants from emergency medical services in Sweden who were randomly allocated to a test or control group. The control group (n=10, 50\%) received a lecture on general incident management, while the intervention group (n=10, 50\%) completed an e-learning course consisting of 5 modules focused on tunnel structure, safety, and collaboration in response. The participants took part in 2 simulation-based assessments for ambulance commander decision-making in major road tunnel incidents 1 month and 6 months after their allocated study intervention. In each simulation, the participants decided on the best course of action at 15 independent decision points, designed as multiple-choice questions. The primary outcome was the correct response to the question regarding how to appropriately enter the road tunnel. The secondary outcome measurements were correct or incorrect responses and the time taken to decide for each of the 15 decisions. Limited in-depth follow-up interviews were conducted with participants (n=5, 25\%), and collected data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: All 20 participants completed the first simulation, and 16 (80\%) completed the second. The main finding was that none (0/20, 0\%) of the participants correctly answered the question on entering the tunnel system in the 1-month assessment. There were no significant differences between the groups (P=.59; 2-sample test of proportions) in the second assessment. The e-learning course was not associated with more correct answers at the first assessment, including accounting for participant factors (mean difference between groups: --0.58 points, 95\% CI --1.88 to 0.73; P=.36). The e-learning course was also not associated with a shorter time to completion compared to the nonintervention group in either assessment. Interviews identified 3 categories linked to the main outcome: information (lack of), risk (limited knowledge and equipment), and mitigation (access to maps and aide-m{\'e}moire). Conclusions: Participation in a tunnel-specific e-learning course did not result in a measurable change in ambulance commanders' decision-making behavior during simulated road tunnel incidents. The observed hesitation to enter the road tunnel system may have several plausible causes, such as the lack of actionable intelligence and tunnel-specific plans. This novel approach to assessing commander decision-making may be transferable to other educational settings. ", doi="10.2196/58542", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e58542" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/69001, author="Razmjou, Helen and Denis, Suzanne and Robarts, Susan and Wainwright, Amy and Dickson, Patricia and Murnaghan, John", title="Convergent and Known-Groups Validity and Sensitivity to Change of the Virtual Performance Measure in Patients With Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: Longitudinal Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="28", volume="9", pages="e69001", keywords="virtual", keywords="video-based outcome", keywords="longitudinal validity", keywords="sensitivity to change", keywords="osteoarthritis", abstract="Background: Subsequent to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, a different approach to health care utilization was required to improve safety and efficiency. In the postpandemic era, virtual care and remote assessment of musculoskeletal conditions has become more common, and examining the accuracy of these remote encounters remains vital. In 2023, an innovative, video-based tool---the Virtual Performance Measure (VPM)---was introduced to assess the functional difficulties of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Further validation of this tool is warranted to expand its application longitudinally and in more diverse populations. Objective: This study examined the longitudinal validity of the VPM, a digitally based outcome tool, in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip and knee joints who had undergone arthroplasty. Methods: Patients completed a web-based survey after watching 40 videos that demonstrated 10 functional tasks with increasing difficulty, prior to and at approximately 3-5 months following surgery. The Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) was used as the reference measure. Longitudinal convergent and known-groups validity as well as sensitivity to change were assessed. Results: The data of 120 patients (n=80, 67\% female; mean age 67, SD 9 years; n=58, 48\% with hip osteoarthritis and n=62, 52\% with knee osteoarthritis) were examined. There was a statistically significant improvement in both LEFS (t119=16.04, P<.001) and VPM total scores (t119=13.92, P<.001) over time. The correlation between the postoperative LEFS and VPM scores was higher (r=0.66; P<.001) than the correlation between the change scores of these measures (r=0.51; P<.001). The area under the curve value for the VPM's ability to differentiate between urgent and nonurgent candidates for surgery was 0.71 (95\% CI 0.57-0.84). Sensitivity to change as measured by the standardized response mean was 1.27 (95\% CI 1.09-1.45), indicating good ability to detect change over time. Conclusions: The VPM demonstrated sufficient longitudinal convergent and known-groups validity as well as sensitivity to change in patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis following arthroplasty. This tool has a potential to improve the delivery of care by increasing access, reducing the frequency of in-person visits, and improving the overall efficiency of the health care system following a major surgery. ", doi="10.2196/69001", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e69001" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/60221, author="Waki, Kayo and Enomoto, Syunpei and Yamauchi, Toshimasa and Nangaku, Masaomi and Ohe, Kazuhiko", title="Personalized mHealth Intervention (StepAdd) for Increasing Physical Activity in Japanese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Secondary Analysis of Social Cognitive Theory Measurements of a Single-Arm Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="28", volume="9", pages="e60221", keywords="social cognitive theory", keywords="mHealth", keywords="mobile health", keywords="behavior change", keywords="diabetes", keywords="diabetic", keywords="type 2 diabetes", keywords="walk", keywords="step", keywords="exercise", keywords="physical activity", keywords="walking", keywords="digital therapeutics", keywords="secondary analysis", keywords="personalization", keywords="coping", keywords="self-efficacy", abstract="Background: A 12-week pilot of the StepAdd mobile health (mHealth) behavior change intervention based on social cognitive theory (SCT) saw an 86.7\% increase in mean daily step counts among patients with type 2 diabetes. Due to the lack of exploration of theoretical implications in mHealth intervention studies, there is a need to understand the mechanism underlying the behavioral change to inform the future design of digital therapeutics. Objective: This study aimed to examine the SCT drivers underlying the mean increase in exercise among Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes who participated in the StepAdd intervention. Methods: This is a post hoc analysis of data collected in the single-arm pilot study of the 32 patients who completed the StepAdd intervention. The StepAdd app uses self-mastery and coping strategies to increase self-efficacy and thus increase walking. Self-mastery was measured by the goal completion (GC) rate, which is the percentage of days in which patients met these adapting goals. The use of coping strategies was measured by the strategy implementation (SI) rate, which is the percentage of days in which patients applied their selected coping strategies. We assessed correlations between GC, SI, and self-efficacy to increase walking via linear regression and analyzed relationships via structural equation modeling. Results: We found statistically significant support for the SCT approach, including a correlation coefficient ($\rho$) of 0.649 between step increase and GC rate (P<.001); a $\rho$ of 0.497 between the coping SI rate and self-efficacy increase (P=.004); a $\rho$ of 0.446 between GC rate and self-mastery increase (P=.01); and a $\rho$ of 0.355 between self-regulation increase and step increase (P=.046), giving us insight into why the behavior intervention succeeded. We also found significant correlations between self-efficacy for barriers and self-efficacy for task-specific behavior ($\rho$=0.358; P=.04), as well as self-regulation and self-efficacy for task-specific behavior ($\rho$=0.583; P<.001). However, a cross-lagged panel modeling analysis found no significant evidence that changes in self-efficacy preceded behavior changes in line with SCT. Conclusions: Self-mastery and coping strategies contributed to the walking behavior change in StepAdd, supporting the SCT model of behavior change. Future research is needed to better understand the causal pathways proposed by SCT. ", doi="10.2196/60221", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60221" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67861, author="Brown, Jeffrey and Mitchell, Zachary and Jiang, Albert Yu and Archdeacon, Ryan", title="Accuracy of Smartphone-Mediated Snore Detection in a Simulated Real-World Setting: Algorithm Development and Validation", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="28", volume="9", pages="e67861", keywords="snore detection", keywords="snore tracking", keywords="machine learning", keywords="SleepWatch", keywords="Bodymatter", keywords="neural net", keywords="mobile device", keywords="smartphone", keywords="smartphone application", keywords="mobile health", keywords="sleep monitoring", keywords="sleep tracking", keywords="sleep apnea", abstract="Background: High-quality sleep is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Insufficient or poor-quality sleep is linked to numerous health issues, including cardiometabolic diseases, mental health disorders, and increased mortality. Snoring---a prevalent condition---can disrupt sleep and is associated with disease states, including coronary artery disease and obstructive sleep apnea. Objective: The SleepWatch smartphone app (Bodymatter, Inc) aims to monitor and improve sleep quality and has snore detection capabilities that were built through a machine-learning process trained on over 60,000 acoustic events. This study evaluated the accuracy of the SleepWatch snore detection algorithm in a simulated real-world setting. Methods: The snore detection algorithm was tested by using 36 simulated snoring audio files derived from 18 participants. Each file simulated a snoring index between 30 and 600 snores per hour. Additionally, 9 files with nonsnoring sounds were tested to evaluate the algorithm's capacity to avoid false positives. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were calculated for each test, and results were compared by using Bland-Altman plots and Spearman correlation to assess the statistical association between detected and actual snores. Results: The SleepWatch algorithm showed an average sensitivity of 86.3\% (SD 16.6\%), an average specificity of 99.5\% (SD 10.8\%), and an average accuracy of 95.2\% (SD 5.6\%) across the snoring tests. The positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 98.9\% (SD 2.6\%) and 93.8\% (SD 14.4\%) respectively. The algorithm performed exceptionally well in avoiding false positives, with a specificity of 97.1\% (SD 3.5\%) for nonsnoring files. Inclusive of all snoring and nonsnore tests, the aggregated accuracy for all trials in this bench study was 95.6\% (SD 5.3\%). The Bland-Altman analysis indicated a mean bias of ?29.8 (SD 41.7) snores per hour, and the Spearman correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (rs=0.974; P<.001) between detected and actual snore rates. Conclusions: The SleepWatch snore detection algorithm demonstrates high accuracy and compares favorably with other snore detection apps. Aside from its broader use in sleep monitoring, SleepWatch demonstrates potential as a tool for identifying individuals at risk for sleep-disordered breathing, including obstructive sleep apnea, on the basis of the snoring index. ", doi="10.2196/67861", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e67861" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64384, author="Wittmar, Silke and Frankenstein, Tom and Timm, Vincent and Frei, Peter and Kurpiers, Nicolas and W{\"o}lwer, Stefan and Sch{\"a}fer, Meender Axel Georg", title="User Experience With a Personalized mHealth Service for Physical Activity Promotion in University Students: Mixed Methods Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="28", volume="9", pages="e64384", keywords="usability testing", keywords="health promotion", keywords="exercise", keywords="smartphone app", keywords="mHealth", keywords="physical activity", keywords="user experience", keywords="user", keywords="university student", keywords="undergraduate", keywords="college", keywords="student", keywords="mixed methods", keywords="physical fitness", keywords="digital intervention", keywords="mobile health", keywords="promote", keywords="engagement", keywords="mobile phone", abstract="Background: Regular physical activity (PA) is known to offer substantial health benefits, including improved physical fitness, reduced risk of disease, enhanced psychological well-being, and better cognitive performance. Despite these benefits, many university students fail to meet recommended PA levels, risking long-term health consequences. Objective: This study evaluated the user experience (UX) of futur.move, a digital intervention aimed at promoting PA among university students. The service delivers personalized, evidence-based content to foster sustained engagement in PA. Methods: A mixed methods approach was used to evaluate the prototype of futur.move. UX assessments included on-site and online user tests, standardized questionnaires, and online focus groups. A total of 142 university students participated, with 23 joining additional focus groups. Each participant tested the service for 30 minutes. Quantitative data were collected using the User Experience Questionnaire and analyzed descriptively, followed by correlation analysis with variables such as PA level, age, gender, and experience with PA apps. Qualitative insights were gathered from transcribed focus group discussions and analyzed using content-structuring, qualitative content analysis. Quantitative findings were cross-validated with qualitative data. Results: The UX received positive ratings across 4 User Experience Questionnaire scales (range --3 to +3; higher numbers indicate positive UX): attractiveness (median 1.67, IQR 1.04-2.17), perspicuity (median 1.5, IQR 0.5-2), stimulation (median 1.5, IQR 1-2), and novelty (median 1.25, IQR 0.5-2). Weak correlations were found between adherence to World Health Organization guidelines for PA and the perspicuity subscale ($\eta$=0.232, P=.04), and between age and the perspicuity (Kendall $\tau$b=0.132, P=.03) and stimulation subscales (Kendall $\tau$b=0.144, P=.02), and a moderate correlation was found between gender and the novelty subscale ($\eta$=0.363, P=.004). Critical feedback from focus group discussions highlighted issues with manual data entry. Qualitative findings aligned with the quantitative results, emphasizing students' appreciation for the personalized, diverse content and social networking features of futur.move. Conclusions: futur.move demonstrates favorable UX and aligns with student needs, particularly through its personalized content and social features. Improvements should focus on reducing manual data entry and enhancing feature clarity, particularly for the features ``your condition'' and ``goal setting.'' While correlations between UX ratings and demographic variables were weak to moderate, they warrant further investigation to better address the diverse target audience. The feedback from the students serves as a basis for further adapting the service to their needs and expectations. Future work will involve coding an advanced prototype and conducting a longitudinal study to assess its impact on PA behavior and sustained engagement. ", doi="10.2196/64384", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e64384" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65847, author="Tam, Chi Cheuk and Young, D. Sean and Harrison, Sayward and Li, Xiaoming and Litwin, H. Alain", title="Theory-Based Social Media Intervention for Nonmedical Use of Prescription Opioids in Young Adults: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial", journal="JMIR Res Protoc", year="2025", month="Mar", day="26", volume="14", pages="e65847", keywords="nonmedical use of prescription opioids", keywords="opioid misuse", keywords="young adults", keywords="social media", keywords="psychosocial intervention", keywords="randomized controlled trial", keywords="mixed methods", abstract="Background: The nonmedical use of prescription opioids (NMUPO) in young adults in the United States is concerning and is robustly influenced by many psychosocial factors. Given the advantages of flexibility, wide coverage, and real-time responses and assessment, using social media appears to be a promising and innovative approach to delivering psychosocial intervention to young adults. However, few theory-based social media interventions are available for NMUPO targeting this at-risk population. Objective: Guided by the information-motivation-behavioral skills model, the proposed research aims to address critical gaps by theoretically exploring psychosocial content associated with NMUPO among young adults via formative assessment. These findings will then be used to develop and evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a peer-led social media intervention to reduce NMUPO among young adults. Methods: The proposed study will comprise serial research activities. First, formative research will be conducted through semistructured interviews among 30 young adults engaged in NMUPO. Qualitative data will be synthesized using a pragmatic approach for identifying psychosocial content associated with NMUPO. Second, qualitative findings will be used for developing a peer-led social media intervention to reduce NMUPO among young adults by integrating promising psychotherapy principles and incorporating them with well-trained recovery coaches. Third, the social media intervention will be evaluated through a 12-week randomized controlled trial among 70 young adults (n=35, 50\% in the intervention group and control group) engaged in NMUPO via mixed methods, including pre- and postintervention surveys, social media paradata (eg, time-series reactions to posts) collection, and ecological momentary assessment during the intervention. The control group will not receive an intervention but will complete the pre- and postintervention surveys. The primary outcomes will be feasibility, usability, and acceptability, while the secondary outcomes will be psychosocial and behavioral measures, such as past--3-month NMUPO, intention, psychological distress, self-efficacy, resilience, and coping strategies. Results: The proposed study was funded in May 2024. Social media campaigns have received responses from a total of 379 individuals, with 24 (6.3\%) identified as eligible. As of February 10, 2025, we have completed formative interviews with 8 eligible participants. Conclusions: The proposed study will be one of the first efforts to develop and deliver a theory-based peer-led intervention on social media, incorporating empirical findings on the psychosocial mechanism of NMUPO. The findings of the proposed study will provide valuable insights into opioid risk reduction for young adults through an innovative approach. If the tested trial is found to be feasible, the proposed study will contribute to future scaled-up and fully powered psychosocial interventions among young adults and other key populations at risk for NMUPO. Trial Registration: ClincialTrials.gov NCT06469749; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06469749 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/65847 ", doi="10.2196/65847", url="https://www.researchprotocols.org/2025/1/e65847" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/59953, author="Gicquelais, E. Rachel and Conway, Caitlin and Vjorn, Olivia and Genz, Andrew and Kirk, Gregory and Westergaard, Ryan", title="Mobile Health Tool to Capture Social Determinants of Health and Their Impact on HIV Treatment Outcomes Among People Who Use Drugs: Pilot Feasibility Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="26", volume="9", pages="e59953", keywords="HIV", keywords="drug use", keywords="social determinants of health", keywords="mobile health", keywords="mHealth", keywords="smartphone", abstract="Background: Active substance use, food or housing insecurity, and criminal legal system involvement can disrupt HIV care for people living with HIV and opioid use disorder (OUD). These social determinants of health are not routinely captured in clinical settings. Objective: We evaluated whether real-time reports of social and behavioral factors using a smartphone app could predict viral nonsuppression and missed care visits to inform future mobile health interventions. Methods: We enrolled 59 participants from the AIDS Linked to the Intravenous Experience (ALIVE) Study in Baltimore, Maryland, into a 12-month substudy between February 2017 and October 2018. Participants were eligible if they had OUD and had either a measured HIV RNA ?1000 copies/mL or a ?1-month lapse in antiretroviral therapy in the preceding 2 years. Participants received a smartphone and reported HIV medication adherence, drug use or injection, and several disruptive life events, including not having a place to sleep at night, skipping a meal due to lack of income, being stopped by police, being arrested, or experiencing violence on a weekly basis, through a survey on a mobile health app. We described weekly survey completion and investigated which factors were associated with viral nonsuppression (HIV RNA ?200 copies/mL) or a missed care visit using logistic regression with generalized estimating equations adjusted for age, gender, smartphone comfort, and drug use. Results: Participants were predominantly male (36/59, 61\%), Black (53/59, 90\%), and had a median of 53 years old. At baseline, 16\% (6/38) were virally unsuppressed. Participants completed an average of 23.3 (SD 16.3) total surveys and reported missing a dose of antiretroviral therapy, using or injecting drugs, or experiencing any disruptive life events on an average of 13.1 (SD 9.8) weekly surveys over 1 year. Reporting use of any drugs (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.3, 95\% CI 1.4?3.7), injecting drugs (aOR 2.3, 95\% CI 1.3?3.9), and noncompletion of all surveys (aOR 1.6, 95\% CI 1.1?2.2) were associated with missing a scheduled care visit over the subsequent 30 days. Missing ?2 antiretroviral medication doses within 1 week was associated with HIV viral nonsuppression (aOR 3.7, 95\% CI: 1.2?11.1) in the subsequent 30 days. Conclusions: Mobile health apps can capture risk factors that predict viral nonsuppression and missed care visits among people living with HIV who have OUD. Using mobile health tools to detect sociobehavioral factors that occur prior to treatment disengagement may facilitate early intervention by health care teams. ", doi="10.2196/59953", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e59953" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/66763, author="Young, P. Nathan and Stern, I. Jennifer and Steel, J. Stephanie and Ebbert, O. Jon", title="Mobile App-Based Interactive Care Plan for Migraine: Survey Study of Usability and Improvement Opportunities", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="26", volume="9", pages="e66763", keywords="migraine", keywords="remote monitoring", keywords="mobile app", keywords="mHealth", keywords="patient-reported outcomes", keywords="care plan", keywords="digital health", keywords="app", keywords="smartphone", keywords="eHealth", keywords="technology", keywords="survey study", keywords="headache", keywords="electronic health record", keywords="remote assessment", keywords="older adult", keywords="adult", keywords="electronic survey", keywords="pain", keywords="mobile phone", keywords="telehealth", keywords="telemedicine", abstract="Background: We implemented a novel mobile app-based Migraine Interactive Care Plan (MICP) integrated with our electronic health records (EHRs). The MICP facilitates remote assessment of adult patients with migraine, educational content delivery, and care team communication. Feasibility of the MICP was demonstrated in a pilot implementation study. Objective: We aimed to assess the preferences and satisfaction of patients with migraine users of a mobile app-based care plan integrated with the EHR. Methods: An electronic survey was administered to a single cohort of MICP users between December 6, 2021, and December 30, 2021. The survey assessed patient preferences for which data to track, frequency of tracking, and satisfaction with the MICP. Survey responses were compared between subsets determined by patient-reported headache frequency and treatment with and without botulinum toxin and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonist therapy. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used for continuous variables and the $\chi$2 test or Fisher exact test for categorical variables. Results: The total sample size was 184 and the survey response rate was 30.4\% (56/184). No significant differences in age (P=.26) or sex (P=.19) between respondents and nonrespondents were observed. Respondent median age was 42 (range 20?72) years and 94.6\% (53/56) were female. Headache frequency was (1) 0 to 8 days (26/56, 46.4\%), (2) 9 to 14 days (12/56, 21.4\%), and (3) 15 or more days (18/56, 32.1\%). No difference was observed in any survey responses based on headache frequency or treatment. The majority of respondents preferred to track headache days weekly (30/56, 53.6\%) or daily (15/56, 26.8\%) and preferred to change the frequency of headache tracking reminders (42/56, 75\%). Respondents were somewhat or very interested in daily tracking personal observations in free text (41/52, 78.8\%), medication treatment (43/52, 82.7\%) and treatment response (39/56, 69.6\%), class of medication treatment (36/52, 69.2\%), severity of functional impairment (39/56, 69.6\%), type of functional impairment (35/53, 66\%), headache day (40/54, 74.1\%), and headache pain level on a scale of 1 to 10 (38/53, 71.7\%). Respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the education content was useful (31/51, 60.8\%) but lacked personalization (25/51, 49\%). Most respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they were satisfied with the MICP (38/50, 76\%) and that it helped them communicate with their care team (38/53, 71.7\%). Conclusions: Most MICP users were motivated to track headache frequency, medication treatment with response, functional impairment, and pain intensity. Opportunities to improve the MICP include (1) allowing patients to change the frequency of assessments and notifications; (2) recording personal observations or comments through free text, which may include headache triggers; (3) assessment of headache severity using a 1 to 10 pain scale; and (4) tailoring headache education based on frequency and severity (episodic vs chronic migraine). These observations may be useful to improve the usability of the MICP and similar EHR-integrated migraine care platforms that others may develop. ", doi="10.2196/66763", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e66763" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64096, author="March, A. Christine and Naame, Elissa and Libman, Ingrid and Proulx, N. Chelsea and Siminerio, Linda and Miller, Elizabeth and Lyon, R. Aaron", title="School-Partnered Collaborative Care (SPACE) for Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes: Development and Usability Study of a Virtual Intervention With Multisystem Community Partners", journal="JMIR Diabetes", year="2025", month="Mar", day="26", volume="10", pages="e64096", keywords="type 1 diabetes", keywords="user-centered design", keywords="school health", keywords="collaborative care model", keywords="implementation research", keywords="pediatric", keywords="usability testing", keywords="virtual intervention", keywords="multisystem community partners", keywords="children", keywords="youth", keywords="diabetes management support", keywords="health system partners", keywords="psychosocial interventions", keywords="quantitative assessments", keywords="qualitative assessments", abstract="Background: School-partnered interventions may improve health outcomes for children with type 1 diabetes, though there is limited evidence to support their effectiveness and sustainability. Family, school, or health system factors may interfere with intervention usability and implementation. Objective: To identify and address potential implementation barriers during intervention development, we combined methods in user-centered design and implementation science to adapt an evidence-based psychosocial intervention, the collaborative care model, to a virtual school-partnered collaborative care (SPACE) model for type 1 diabetes between schools and diabetes medical teams. Methods: We recruited patient, family, school, and health system partners (n=20) to cocreate SPACE through iterative, web-based design sessions using a digital whiteboard (phase 1). User-centered design methods included independent and group activities for idea generation, visual voting, and structured critique of the evolving SPACE prototype. In phase 2, the prototype was evaluated with the usability evaluation for evidence-based psychosocial interventions methods. School nurses reviewed the prototype and tasks in cognitive walkthroughs and completed the Intervention Usability Scale (IUS). Two members of the research team independently identified and prioritized (1-3 rating) discrete usability concerns. We evaluated the relationship between prioritization and the percentage of nurses reporting each usability issue with Spearman correlation. Differences in IUS scores by school nurse characteristics were assessed with ANOVA. Results: In the design phase, the partners generated over 90 unique ideas for SPACE, prioritizing elements pertaining to intervention adaptability, team-based communication, and multidimensional outcome tracking. Following three iterations of prototype development, cognitive walkthroughs were completed with 10 school nurses (n=10, 100\% female; mean age 48.5, SD 9.5 years) representing different districts and years of experience. Nurses identified 16 discrete usability issues (each reported by 10\%-60\% of participants). Two issues receiving the highest priority (3.0): ability to access a virtual platform (n=3, 30\% of participants) and data-sharing mechanisms between nurses and providers (n=6, 60\% of participants). There was a moderate correlation between priority rating and the percentage of nurses reporting each issue ($\rho$=0.63; P=.01). Average IUS ratings (77.8, SD 11.1; 100-point scale) indicated appropriate usability. There was no difference in IUS ratings by school nurse experience (P=.54), student caseload (P=.12), number of schools covered (P=.90), or prior experience with type 1 diabetes (P=.83), suggesting that other factors may influence usability. The design team recommended strategies for SPACE implementation to overcome high-priority issues, including training users on videoconferencing applications, establishing secure forms for school data reporting, and sharing glucose data in real-time during SPACE meetings. Conclusions: Cross-sector interventions are complex, and perceived usability is a potential barrier to implementation. Using web-based cocreation methods with community partners promoted high-quality intervention design that is aligned with end-user priorities. Quantitative and qualitative assessments indicated appropriate degree of usability to move forward with pilot-testing. ", doi="10.2196/64096", url="https://diabetes.jmir.org/2025/1/e64096" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/57468, author="Chen, T. Annie and Wang, C. Lexie and Johnny, Shana and Wong, H. Sharon and Chaliparambil, K. Rahul and Conway, Mike and Glass, E. Joseph", title="Stigma and Behavior Change Techniques in Substance Use Recovery: Qualitative Study of Social Media Narratives", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="26", volume="9", pages="e57468", keywords="stigma", keywords="substance use", keywords="transtheoretical model", keywords="behavior change techniques", keywords="social media", abstract="Background: Existing literature shows that persons with substance use disorder (SUD) experience different stages of readiness to reduce or abstain from substance use, and tailoring intervention change strategies to these stages may facilitate recovery. Moreover, stigma may serve as a barrier to recovery by preventing persons with SUDs from seeking treatment. In recent years, the behavior change technique (BCT) taxonomy has increasingly become useful for identifying potential efficacious intervention components; however, prior literature has not addressed the extent to which these techniques may naturally be used to recover from substance use, and knowledge of this may be useful in the design of future interventions. Objective: We take a three-step approach to identifying strategies to facilitate substance use recovery: (1) characterizing the extent to which stages of change are expressed in social media data, (2) identifying BCTs used by persons at different stages of change, and (3) exploring the role that stigma plays in recovery journeys. Methods: We collected discussion posts from Reddit, a popular social networking site, and identified subreddits or discussion forums about 3 substances (alcohol, cannabis, and opioids). We then performed qualitative data analysis using a hybrid inductive-deductive method to identify the stages of change in social media authors' recovery journeys, the techniques that social media content authors used as they sought to quit substance use, and the role that stigma played in social media authors' recovery journeys. Results: We examined 748 posts pertaining to 3 substances: alcohol (n=316, 42.2\%), cannabis (n=335, 44.8\%), and opioids (n=135, 18\%). Social media content representing the different stages of change was observed, with the majority (472/748, 63.1\%) of narratives representing the action stage. In total, 11 categories of BCTs were identified. There were similarities in BCT use across precontemplation, contemplation, and preparation stages, with social support seeking and awareness of natural consequences being the most common. As people sought to quit or reduce their use of substances (action stage), we observed a variety of BCTs, such as the repetition and substitution of healthful behaviors and monitoring and receiving feedback on their own behavior. In the maintenance stage, reports of diverse BCTs continue to be frequent, but offers of social support also become more common than in previous stages. Stigma was present throughout all stages. We present 5 major themes pertaining to the manifestation of stigma. Conclusions: Patterns of BCT use and stigmatizing experiences are frequently discussed in social media, which can be leveraged to better understand the natural course of recovery from SUD and how interventions might facilitate recovery from substance use. It may be important to incorporate stigma reduction across all stages of the recovery journey. ", doi="10.2196/57468", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e57468" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/64266, author="Ackerhans, Sophia and Wehkamp, Kai and Petzina, Rainer and Dumitrescu, Daniel and Schultz, Carsten", title="Perceived Trust and Professional Identity Threat in AI-Based Clinical Decision Support Systems: Scenario-Based Experimental Study on AI Process Design Features", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="26", volume="9", pages="e64266", keywords="artificial intelligence", keywords="clinical decision support systems", keywords="explainable artificial intelligence", keywords="professional identity threat", keywords="health care", keywords="physicians", keywords="perceptions", keywords="professional identity", abstract="Background: Artificial intelligence (AI)--based systems in medicine like clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) have shown promising results in health care, sometimes outperforming human specialists. However, the integration of AI may challenge medical professionals' identities and lead to limited trust in technology, resulting in health care professionals rejecting AI-based systems. Objective: This study aims to explore the impact of AI process design features on physicians' trust in the AI solution and on perceived threats to their professional identity. These design features involve the explainability of AI-based CDSS decision outcomes, the integration depth of the AI-generated advice into the clinical workflow, and the physician's accountability for the AI system-induced medical decisions. Methods: We conducted a 3-factorial web-based between-subject scenario-based experiment with 292 medical students in their medical training and experienced physicians across different specialties. The participants were presented with an AI-based CDSS for sepsis prediction and prevention for use in a hospital. Each participant was given a scenario in which the 3 design features of the AI-based CDSS were manipulated in a 2{\texttimes}2{\texttimes}2 factorial design. SPSS PROCESS (IBM Corp) macro was used for hypothesis testing. Results: The results suggest that the explainability of the AI-based CDSS was positively associated with both trust in the AI system ($\beta$=.508; P<.001) and professional identity threat perceptions ($\beta$=.351; P=.02). Trust in the AI system was found to be negatively related to professional identity threat perceptions ($\beta$=--.138; P=.047), indicating a partially mediated effect on professional identity threat through trust. Deep integration of AI-generated advice into the clinical workflow was positively associated with trust in the system ($\beta$=.262; P=.009). The accountability of the AI-based decisions, that is, the system required a signature, was found to be positively associated with professional identity threat perceptions among the respondents ($\beta$=.339; P=.004). Conclusions: Our research highlights the role of process design features of AI systems used in medicine in shaping professional identity perceptions, mediated through increased trust in AI. An explainable AI-based CDSS and an AI-generated system advice, which is deeply integrated into the clinical workflow, reinforce trust, thereby mitigating perceived professional identity threats. However, explainable AI and individual accountability of the system directly exacerbate threat perceptions. Our findings illustrate the complex nature of the behavioral patterns of AI in health care and have broader implications for supporting the implementation of AI-based CDSSs in a context where AI systems may impact professional identity. ", doi="10.2196/64266", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e64266" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/65114, author="Seel, Mariella and Mihalic, Alexander Julian and Froschauer, Mathias Stefan and Holzner, Bernhard and Meier, Jens and Gotterbarm, Tobias and Holzbauer, Matthias", title="Changes in Health Education Literacy After Structured Web-Based Education Versus Self-Directed Online Information Seeking in Patients Undergoing Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: Nonrandomized, Controlled Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="25", volume="9", pages="e65114", keywords="carpal tunnel release surgery", keywords="patient education", keywords="structured web-based education", keywords="online information", keywords="health education literacy", keywords="web-based", keywords="health education", keywords="information seeking", keywords="carpal tunnel release", keywords="carpal tunnel surgery", keywords="non-randomized", keywords="controlled study", keywords="self-management", keywords="perioperative", keywords="online health information", keywords="health literacy", keywords="day surgery", keywords="online search", keywords="carpal tunnel", keywords="carpal", abstract="Background: With advancements in anesthesiologic and surgical techniques, many surgeries are now performed as day-surgery procedures, requiring greater responsibilities for self-management from patients during the perioperative process. Online health information often lacks reliability and comprehensibility, posing risks for patients with low health literacy. Carpal tunnel release (CTR) surgery, a common day-surgery procedure, necessitates effective patient education for optimal recovery and self-management. Objective: This study introduces the CTS Academy, a web-based education program designed for patients undergoing CTR day surgery. The study aimed to evaluate the CTS Academy's impact on patients' health education literacy (HEL) compared with self-directed online information seeking. Methods: A scoping review on education programs focusing on the perioperative process of CTR was conducted before this study. In a nonrandomized controlled study, 60 patients scheduled for CTR were assigned to 2 groups based on the patients' preferences; the test group used the CTS Academy, while the control group performed self-directed online searches. HEL was assessed using the Health Education Literacy of Patients with chronic musculoskeletal diseases (HELP) questionnaire, focusing on patients's comprehension of medical information (COMPR), patients's ability to apply health-related information in an everyday life (APPLY), and patient's ability to communicate with health care professional (COMM). Secondary outcomes included content comprehensibility, patient preferences, platform usability, and clinical carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)--related parameters. Results: In the scoping review, 17 studies could be identified and included for full-text analysis. Eighteen patients each were included in the test group (13 women and 5 men) and in the control group (11 women and 7 men). The average time spent in the study was 167 and 176 days for the test and control groups, respectively. The test group showed significant improvements in APPLY (mean 28, SD 7.99 vs mean 24, SD 5.14; P<.05) and COMM (mean 30, SD 10.52 vs mean 25, SD 6.01; P=.02) after using the CTS Academy in a longitudinal analysis. No significant changes were observed in the control group. In a comparison between groups, the test group had significantly higher APPLY scores at follow-up (mean 24, SD 5.14 vs mean 33, SD 14.78; P=.044) and fewer comprehension issues at baseline (mean 38, SD 16.60 vs mean 50, SD 19.00; P=.03). The CTS-related knowledge assessment yielded 92\% (66/72) versus 90\% (65/72) correct answers in the test and control groups, respectively. The test group rated the CTS Academy highly in usability (6.22 of 7.00 points) and utility (6.13 of 7.00 points). Preferences leaned toward using CTS Academy alongside doctor consultations (16/18, 89\%) and over self-directed searches (15/18, 84\%). No significant differences were found in CTS-related symptoms between groups. Conclusions: The CTS Academy effectively enhanced patients' HEL, especially in applying and communicating medical information. The platform's usability and utility were rated favorably, and patients preferred it over independent online information seeking. This suggests that structured, web-based education enhances patient self-management during the day surgery process. ", doi="10.2196/65114", url="https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e65114" } @Article{info:doi/10.2196/67293, author="Whittemore, Robin and Jeon, Sangchoon and Akyirem, Samuel and Chen, C. Helen N. and Lipson, Joanna and Minchala, Maritza and Wagner, Julie", title="Multilevel Intervention to Increase Patient Portal Use in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Who Access Health Care at Community Health Centers: Single Arm, Pre-Post Pilot Study", journal="JMIR Form Res", year="2025", month="Mar", day="25", volume="9", pages="e67293", keywords="patient portal", keywords="mobile phone", keywords="diabetes", keywords="community health center", keywords="adults", keywords="diabetic", keywords="DM", keywords="diabetes mellitus", keywords="Type 2 diabetes", keywords="T2D", keywords="community health centers", keywords="CHCs", keywords="pilot study", keywords="feasibility", keywords="self-management", keywords="glycemic control", keywords="patient portals", keywords="social determinants of health", keywords="primary outcome", keywords="digital health", keywords="digital health literacy", keywords="health technology", keywords="health technologies", keywords="psychosocial", keywords="efficacy", abstract="Background: Diabetes self-management education and support (DSMS) delivered via patient portals significantly improves glycemic control. Yet, disparities in patient portal use persist. Community health centers (CHCs) deliver care to anyone who needs it, regardless of income or insurance status. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a multilevel intervention to increase access and use of portals (MAP) among people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) receiving health care at CHCs. Methods: A within-subjects, pre-post design was used. Adults with T2D who were portal naive were recruited from 2 CHCs. After informed consent, participants met with a community health worker for referrals for social determinants of health, provision of a tablet with cell service, and individualized training on use of the tablet and portal. Next, a nurse met individually with participants to develop a DSMS plan and then communicated with patients via the portal at least twice weekly during the first 3 months and weekly for the latter 3 months. Data were collected at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. The primary outcome was patient activation and engagement with the portal. Secondary outcomes included technology attitudes, digital health literacy, health-related outcomes and psychosocial function. Results: In total, 26 patients were eligible, 23 received the intervention, and one was lost to follow up. The sample was predominately Latino or Hispanic (17/22, 77\%) and reported low income (19/22, 86\%< US \$40,000/year), low education (13/22, 59\%