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JMIR Publications
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A leading open access publisher of digital health research and champion of open science. With a focus on author advocacy and research amplification, JMIR Publications partners with researchers to advance their careers and maximize the impact of their work.
Effectiveness, Engagement, and Experience: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Three #mHealth Training Approaches for Pediatric Triage by Community #Health Workers in Northern Uganda (preprint) #openscience #PeerReviewMe #PlanP
Effectiveness, Engagement, and Experience: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Three #mHealth Training Approaches for Pediatric Triage by Community #Health Workers in Northern Uganda
Date Submitted: Feb 15, 2026. Open Peer Review Period: Feb 18, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026.
dlvr.it
February 19, 2026 at 12:36 AM
New in JMIR mhealth: Effectiveness of Step Goal Personalization Strategies on #PhysicalActivity in a #Mobile #Health #App: A Field Study
Effectiveness of Step Goal Personalization Strategies on #PhysicalActivity in a #Mobile #Health #App: A Field Study
Background: Goal personalization features integrated into #Mobile #Health apps have the potential to enhance #PhysicalActivity, as some evidence shows that the personalized goals generated by algorithms are more effective than default or fixed goals. However, it remains unclear whether goals set by users are more effective than fixed goals and which personalization strategy is more effective for different user segments. Objective: This field study aimed to evaluate (1) the efficacy of 2 step goal personalization strategies—personalized-by-you and personalized-by-the-algorithm—and (2) which strategy is more effective among users with different activity levels. Methods: All users of SamenGezond, a Dutch #Mobile #Health #App, have a default goal of 2000 steps per day, 5 days a week. For this study, 2 random groups were selected, totaling 5800 users. Subsequently, an email was sent to 3800 users in group 1, asking whether they were satisfied with their current goal. Those who were not satisfied were offered 2 personalization options: to set a goal themselves or to have the algorithm integrated in the #App set goals for them. In total, 1399 users responded: 230 chose to set their own goals (personalized-by-you group), 236 opted for setting the goal by the algorithm (personalized-by-the-algorithm group), and 933 chose to keep the default goal (not-changed group). The algorithm used a moving-window percentile rank method based on step data from the previous 4 weeks. Users who did not personalize retained the default goal. The remaining 2000 users in group 2 did not receive the email and also retained the default goal. To evaluate the effectiveness of step goal personalization strategies, we used propensity score matching and difference-in-difference analysis. Results: Users in the personalized-by-you group increased weekly step count by 3793 a week, while those in the personalized-by-the-algorithm group increased by 4315 steps a week, compared with the not-changed group (users with default goals). The 2 strategies appear to have a similar effect. Interestingly, users in the not-changed group also increased their weekly steps by 1759. Furthermore, the effectiveness of each strategy varied by baseline activity level. The personalized-by-you strategy was effective for medium- (increase of 5842 steps) and high-active users (increase of 4266 steps) but not for low-active users (increase of 384 steps; =.82). Conversely, the personalized-by-the-algorithm strategy was effective for low- (increase of 5095 steps) and medium-active users (increase of 5278 steps) but not for high-active users (increase of 1446 steps; =.51). Conclusions: Step goal personalization demonstrates short-term effectiveness. However, their impact varies by users’ baseline activity levels, indicating the need for a tailored approach for different user segments. Future studies should examine the long-term effects of such interventions to design sustainable #Health behavior change strategies.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 10:52 PM
Evaluation of the tuberculosis #Surveillance system in S#Pain, 2018–2024: a mixed-methods analysis (preprint) #openscience #PeerReviewMe #PlanP
Evaluation of the tuberculosis #Surveillance system in S#Pain, 2018–2024: a mixed-methods analysis
Date Submitted: Feb 18, 2026. Open Peer Review Period: Feb 18, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 10:43 PM
Mass Drug Administration and Serology Integrated with Reactive Case Detection for Vivax Malaria Elimination in Cambodia: A #Study #Protocol for an Observational Feasibility #Study (preprint) #openscience #PeerReviewMe #PlanP
Mass Drug Administration and Serology Integrated with Reactive Case Detection for Vivax Malaria Elimination in Cambodia: A #Study #Protocol for an Observational Feasibility #Study
Date Submitted: Feb 18, 2026. Open Peer Review Period: Feb 18, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 10:38 PM
New in JMIR MedEdu: Impact of a Structured Training Program on Medical Student Confidence and Behavior During Their First Radial Arterial Puncture: Comparative Study
Impact of a Structured Training Program on Medical Student Confidence and Behavior During Their First Radial Arterial Puncture: Comparative Study
Background: Radial artery puncture is a common clinical procedure essential for assessing gas exchange but is frequently perceived as stressful by inexperienced operators, who fear causing pain to their patients. Despite its practical relevance, formal training in this procedure is inconsistently integrated into medical curricula. This study evaluated whether a structured training program—combining theoretical instruction, simulation-based practice, and debriefing—could influence students’ procedural confidence and decision-making and patient experience during their first clinical arterial puncture. Objective: This study aimed to determine whether structured simulation-based training influences medical students’ anxiety, confidence, and technical performance and patient experience during their first arterial puncture. Methods: Third-year medical students who had never performed an arterial puncture were assigned to 1 of 2 groups: a structured training group (group 1) or a control group receiving informal or no specific training (group 2). After performing their first arterial puncture under supervision, students completed a questionnaire assessing apprehension, satisfaction, and confidence. The decision to use local anesthesia, puncture success, and patient-rated pain and apprehension were also recorded. A total of 67 students participated (group 1: n=24, 35.8%; group 2: n=43, 64.2%), with 61 patients included. Statistical comparisons were performed using the Fisher exact and nonparametric Mann-Whitney tests (α=.05). Results: Self-reported apprehension and confidence were similar between groups. However, group 1 students were significantly less likely to use local anesthesia compared to group 2 students (7/20, 35% vs 28/36, 77.8%, respectively; =.003), suggesting greater procedural confidence. First-attempt success rates were comparable (group 1: 3/13, 23.1%; group 2: 14/29, 48.3%; =.18). Median patient-reported pain scores were numerically but not statistically significantly lower when anesthesia was used (2.1, IQR 1.2‐4.0 vs 4.8, IQR 2.1‐6.4; =.08). Conclusions: Structured training influenced students’ behavior during their first arterial puncture, reducing reliance on anesthesia despite similar levels of self-reported apprehension. Although confidence ratings did not differ, behavioral indicators suggested improved self-efficacy and readiness for clinical performance. These findings support the behavioral impact of structured procedural education and call for future research using validated assessment tools and long-term follow-up.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:43 PM
Sequencing AI Automation and Data Interoperability in #Oncology: A Scenario-Planning Framework Coupled With Discrete-Event Simulation (preprint) #openscience #PeerReviewMe #PlanP
Sequencing AI Automation and Data Interoperability in #Oncology: A Scenario-Planning Framework Coupled With Discrete-Event Simulation
Date Submitted: Feb 6, 2026. Open Peer Review Period: Feb 18, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:40 PM
JMIR Formative Res: Fine-Tuned Large Language Models for Generating Multiple-Choice Questions in Anesthesiology: Psychometric Comparison With Faculty-Written Items #Anesthesiology #MedicalEducation #MultipleChoiceQuestions #LearningAssessment #LanguageModels
Fine-Tuned Large Language Models for Generating Multiple-Choice Questions in Anesthesiology: Psychometric Comparison With Faculty-Written Items
Background: Multiple-choice examinations (MCQs) are widely used in medical education to ensure standardized and objective assessment. Developing high-quality items requires both subject expertise and methodological rigor. Large language models (LLMs) offer new opportunities for automated item generation. However, most evaluations rely on general-purpose prompting, and psychometric comparisons with faculty-written items remain scarce. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether a fine-tuned LLM can generate MCQs (Type A) in anesthesiology with psychometric properties comparable to those written by expert faculty. Methods: The study was embedded in the regular written anesthesiology examination of the eighth-semester medical curriculum with 157 students. The examination comprised 30 single best-answer MCQs, of which 15 were generated by senior faculty and 15 by a fine-tuned GPT-based model. A custom GPT-based (GPT-4) model was adapted with anesthesiology lecture slides, the National Competence-Based Learning Objectives Catalogue (NKLM 2.0), past examination questions, and faculty publications using supervised instruction-tuning with standardized prompt–response pairs. Item analysis followed established psychometric standards. Results: In total, 29 items (14 expert, 15 LLM-generated) were analyzed. Expert-generated questions had a mean difficulty of 0.81 (SD 0.19), point-biserial correlation of 0.19 (SD 0.07), and discrimination index of 0.09 (SD 0.08). LLM-generated items had a mean difficulty of 0.79 (SD 0.18), point-biserial correlation of 0.17 (SD 0.04), and discrimination index of 0.08 (SD 0.11). Mann-Whitney tests revealed no significant differences between expert- and LLM-generated items for difficulty (=.38), point-biserial correlation coefficient (=.96), or discrimination index (=.59). Categorical analyses confirmed no significant group differences. Both sets, however, showed only modest psychometric quality. Conclusions: Supervised fine-tuned LLMs are capable of generating MCQs with psychometric properties comparable to those written by experienced faculty. Given the limitations and cohort-dependency of psychometric indices, automated item generation should be considered a complement rather than a replacement for manual item writing. Further research with larger item sets and multi-institutional validation is needed to confirm generalizability and optimize integration of LLM-based tools into assessment development.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:37 PM
JMIR Formative Res: Insights on Recruitment, Implementation, and Movement Pattern Detection by Exploring the #feasibility of Sensor-Based Insole Technology in Long-Term Care: Mixed Methods #feasibility Study #Recruitment #MobilityMonitoring #FallRiskAssessment #DementiaCare #SensorTechnology
Insights on Recruitment, Implementation, and Movement Pattern Detection by Exploring the #feasibility of Sensor-Based Insole Technology in Long-Term Care: Mixed Methods #feasibility Study
Background: Sensor-based footwear is increasingly discussed as a promising tool for mobility monitoring and fall-risk assessment, yet its applicability in long-term care remains largely unexamined. In particular, little is known about whether such systems and the study procedures needed to evaluate them can be feasibly integrated into dementia care settings. This #feasibility study provides practice-based evidence of using a sensor-equipped insole system with cognitively impaired residents. Objective: The study examines recruitment #feasibility, integration of the device into daily care routines, and the operationalization of the study design under everyday institutional conditions. Furthermore, it explores whether movement patterns, including agitation-related behaviors, can be detected in situ, acknowledging the exploratory nature of this aim due to the rarity and unpredictability of natural agitation episodes. Methods: An exploratory #feasibility study was conducted in 2 long-term care facilities in Eastern Switzerland. Six residents with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment and increased fall risk were recruited through a multistep, staff-supported process, offering rare documentation of real-world recruitment constraints. The insole system recorded continuous gait and movement data during daily activities and weekly walking tests. Controlled simulations of agitation-related patterns were conducted to generate reference data, as natural agitation events were infrequent and difficult to capture systematically. #feasibility outcomes were informed focusing on recruitment capability, acceptability and adherence, #feasibility of continuous data acquisition, and the practicality of integrating the system into daily care routines. Results: The study identified substantial #feasibility constraints, including contextual limitations posed by sedation practices, fluctuating health status, and consent-related barriers. Practical challenges such as inconsistent battery charging, communication gaps across rotating staff, and difficulties achieving adequate shoe fit directly affected protocol adherence and data yield. Continuous sensor-based data collection was technically feasible when the shoes were worn, and machine-learning models consistently classified predefined agitation-related patterns under controlled conditions. Natural agitation episodes were rare, making simulated reference data essential for establishing fundamental detectability. Resident acceptance varied, with some individuals reporting increased perceived stability due to the shoe’s firm construction rather than its vibration feature. Conclusions: This #feasibility study demonstrates that sensor-based footwear is technically feasible and shows situational acceptability in long-term care, while also highlighting key contextual constraints related to recruitment, workflow integration, device handling, and adherence. The findings provide early empirical evidence on what is practically achievable in this population and setting, clarifying the exploratory nature and methodological necessity of using simulated agitation patterns, and underscoring the need for context-sensitive, participatory strategies when introducing sensor-based technologies into dementia care.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:37 PM
JMIR Formative Res: A Short Patient-Reported Outcome Measure for Oral Anti#Cancer Agents: Multicenter Observational Study #CancerResearch #Oncology #PatientReportedOutcomes #CancerCare #MedicationAdherence
A Short Patient-Reported Outcome Measure for Oral Anti#Cancer Agents: Multicenter Observational Study
Background: The Michigan Oncology Quality Consortium developed a rapid patient-reported outcome measure (RapidPRO) focused on oral anti#Cancer agents (OAAs). We piloted this measure in 6 oncology practices to determine its usefulness in representing the symptom experience and medication adherence among individuals taking OAAs. It is common in oncology for #Cancer-specific approaches to be used. We sought to use 1 instrument for all OAAs as a means to simplify future implementation in practice. Objective: This study aimed to describe the use of RapidPRO in practice and quantify clinical metrics in RapidPRO for symptom burden, confidence to manage symptoms, confidence to know when to seek care, and OAA medication adherence. Methods: This observational study was conducted across 6 practices from July 2016 to December 2018. RapidPRO assesses symptoms, patient confidence, and medication adherence with respect to OAAs. Results: There were 2252 RapidPROs completed by 695 patients. Among individuals completing at least 2 RapidPROs, the median number of days between them was 28 (IQR 14-42). Of the 2252 completed RapidPROs, 1213 (53.9%) reported at least one moderate or severe symptom, and 28% (485/1705) reported medication nonadherence. Most bothersome symptoms (MBSs; n=1045) were reported in 35.1% (790/2252) of the RapidPROs, and 46.5% (323/695) of all patients reported an MBS. In exploratory analyses, RapidPROs that reported a moderate or severe symptom or lower confidence to manage symptoms were more likely to be nonadherent to OAA therapy. The most common reason for medication nonadherence was “experienced side effects.” Conclusions: These results show that most RapidPROs reported at least one moderate or severe symptom and 28% (485/1705) reported medication nonadherence. As well, RapidPRO was able to capture most patients’ MBSs. By implementing RapidPRO, practices can identify patients who experience symptoms, as well as those who report medication nonadherence.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:37 PM
JMIR Formative Res: Correction: Characterization of Post-Viral Infection Behaviors Among Patients With Long COVID: Prospective, Observational, Longitudinal Cohort Analyses of Fitbit Data and Patient-Reported Outcomes #LongCOVID #PostViralSyndrome #FitbitData #HealthResearch #PatientOutcomes
Correction: Characterization of Post-Viral Infection Behaviors Among Patients With Long COVID: Prospective, Observational, Longitudinal Cohort Analyses of Fitbit Data and Patient-Reported Outcomes
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:37 PM
JMIR HumanFactors: Evaluating a Smartphone App to Monitor Blood Pressure in Normotensive Pregnancies, High-Risk Pregnancies, and Women With Preeclampsia: Prospective Longitudinal Feasibility Study
Evaluating a Smartphone App to Monitor Blood Pressure in Normotensive Pregnancies, High-Risk Pregnancies, and Women With Preeclampsia: Prospective Longitudinal Feasibility Study
Background: Antenatal care has been crucial in reducing maternal mortality. Currently, screening programs of pregnant women include blood pressure (BP) measurements, urine protein tests, and the identification of risk factors. Home monitoring can enhance the early detection and management of pregnancy-related hypertension, while also empowering women to take an active role in their own health care. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and accuracy of contactless BP monitoring using the Anura smartphone app and to compare it to conventional manual cuff measurements. This was done in normotensive and high-risk pregnancies, as well as in women diagnosed with preeclampsia. A secondary objective was to assess women’s experience using the Anura app. Methods: Pregnant women with normotensive or high-risk pregnancies were enrolled from pregnancy weeks 8‐14, and women with preeclampsia were enrolled at the time of diagnosis. The 3 study groups consisted of 132 women with normotensive pregnancies, 40 women with high-risk pregnancies, and 87 women with preeclampsia. They were instructed to use the Anura smartphone app and perform a 30-second facial scan, alongside manual BP measurements, throughout pregnancy. Differences between the 2 methods were analyzed with linear mixed models accounting for repeated measures, reporting beta coefficients with 95% CIs, stratified by patient group and trimester. Outliers were detected visually in the Bland-Altman plots. A digital survey was answered in the Anura app at gestational weeks 37‐39, about their experiences using the Anura app. Results: A total of 4932 BP measurements were recorded with Anura, of which 539 had corresponding manual measurements. In normotensive pregnancies, Anura consistently showed slightly higher diastolic values (approximately 5‐7 mm Hg) and lower systolic values, with significant differences in the second and third trimesters. In high-risk pregnancies, both the systolic and diastolic BP were generally lower with Anura, especially in the second and third trimesters, while women with preeclampsia showed the largest differences, with Anura clearly showing lower systolic and diastolic values. Bland-Altman analyses confirmed these patterns and showed increasing variability and wider limits of agreement in the high-risk pregnancies with preeclampsia. Of 172 women with normotensive and high-risk pregnancies, 56 (32.5%) evaluated their experiences that were predominantly positive, with high perceived safety, better control, and a feeling of increased responsibility for their own health. Some experienced the measurement as somewhat uncomfortable. Conclusions: The Anura app is well accepted by pregnant women and supported them to take an active role in their own health care. Agreement with manual BP measurements was acceptable in normotensive pregnancies but lower in high-risk and preeclamptic pregnancies. These findings indicate potential for Anura as a complementary self-monitoring tool. Further development is needed to improve the app’s accuracy in high-risk groups before broader implementation can be recommended.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:37 PM
JMIR Mental Health: Correction: Using Smartphone-Tracked Behavioral Markers to Recognize #depression and #anxiety Symptoms: Cross-Sectional #Digital Phenotyping Study #MentalHealth #Depression #Anxiety #DigitalHealth #SmartphoneResearch
Correction: Using Smartphone-Tracked Behavioral Markers to Recognize #depression and #anxiety Symptoms: Cross-Sectional #Digital Phenotyping Study
 
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:37 PM
Associations Between Smartphone-Based Finger Tapping and Cognitive Performance in Older Adults: Observational Study
Associations Between Smartphone-Based Finger Tapping and Cognitive Performance in Older Adults: Observational Study
Background: Finger tapping tasks assess fine motor control and have been proposed as potential markers of cognitive function. With smartphones widely available, these tasks can be easily administered at home or in other nonclinical settings. However, the relationship between smartphone-based finger tapping measures and cognitive performance is still not well understood. Objective: This study aimed to examine the association between smartphone digital finger tapping features and cognitive performance in an aging population. Methods: Participants were enrolled in the study as part of the electronic Framingham Heart Study. They were instructed to perform a 2-finger tapping task every 2 months over a 1-year period. In each session, they tapped with 2 fingers of the left hand for 10 seconds and then with 2 fingers of the right hand for 10 seconds, for a total of 20 seconds. Global cognition performance and 4 cognitive domains, including memory, executive function, language, and visuospatial function, were assessed using a standardized neuropsychological battery. Fifteen tapping features were extracted to capture aspects of motor performance, including the mean, SD, skewness, and slope of the intertap interval (ITI). Associations between tapping-derived features and cognitive performance were assessed using linear regression models, adjusting for age, sex, handedness, education, cohort, and the time interval between cognitive and tapping assessments. Results: A total of 302 participants (mean age 74.7, SD 6.3 years; n=169, 56% female participants, and n=40, 13.2% non-White participants) completed the digital finger tapping tasks. Eleven tapping features such as basic temporal properties (eg, number of taps and mean ITI), temporal variability (eg, SD and coefficient of variation of ITI, ITI range, and Microfluctuation Index), and fatigue/temporal drift (ITI slope) were significantly associated with global cognitive function (all
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 9:37 PM
New in JMIR mhealth: Clinical Improvements From #Telemedicine Interventions for Managing Type 2 #Diabetes Compared With Usual Care: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression
Clinical Improvements From #Telemedicine Interventions for Managing Type 2 #Diabetes Compared With Usual Care: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression
Background: Type 2 #Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent chronic metabolic disorder that poses substantial challenges to global #Health care systems and patient management. #Telemedicine, defined as the use of information and communication technologies to enhance #Health care delivery, has emerged as a potential tool to improve access to care and facilitate the management of T2DM. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of various #Telemedicine interventions compared with usual care in glycemic control, and cardiovascular #Health in adults with T2DM. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to August 23, 2024. Eligible RCTs compared #Telemedicine interventions with usual care in adults with T2DM. The primary outcome assessed was hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, while the secondary outcomes included mean glucose, fasting blood glucose, BMI, weight, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The quality of the included studies was examined via the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Data were extracted and analyzed using a random-effects model, and meta-regression was performed to explore potential moderators. The quality of the evidence was assessed via the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Results: A total of 58 RCTs, encompassing 13,942 participants, were included in the analysis. Our findings showed that #Telemedicine interventions significantly improved HbA1c levels compared with usual care (mean difference [MD] –0.38, 95% CI –0.49 to –0.27; Z=6.94; P
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 7:56 PM
JMIR Res Protocols: Effectiveness of a #Digital Awareness #App in HIV/AIDS Mitigation Among #Transgender Individuals in Rawalpindi District: #Protocol for a Quasi-Experimental #Study
Effectiveness of a #Digital Awareness #App in HIV/AIDS Mitigation Among #Transgender Individuals in Rawalpindi District: #Protocol for a Quasi-Experimental #Study
Background: HIV/AIDS is a disease associated with stigma and discrimination. This can hinder the adoption of preventive and treatment methods, especially in vulnerable populations, such as the #Transgender community. Objective: The primary objectives of this #Study are to explore awareness barriers related to HIV/AIDS, develop and pilot a mobile-based HIV awareness #App, and evaluate its acceptability and usability within the #Transgender community. Methods: The #Research will employ a quasi-experimental design, utilizing a pre- and posttest comparison between an intervention group that will use the mobile #App and a comparison group that will not. Phase 1 involves a situational analysis, including key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and a cross-sectional survey. An #App will be designed and developed in Phase 2. Phase 3 will comprise a preintervention assessment recruiting 150 #Transgender people, implementation of the #App on the cell phones of 75 #Transgender people, and a postapp assessment. Statistical techniques will be employed to analyze the captured data and assess the effectiveness of the #App. Results: The recruitment began on August 25, 2025, for the first phase, with the subsequent phases to follow. The data collection and analysis will be completed and finalized by August 31, 2026, following the intervention deployment. No funding was received from any external source for this #Study. Conclusions: The results of this #Study will reveal the effectiveness of a mobile #App for the #Transgender community. These results will determine the continuation and further scale-up of this intervention. The findings will create evidence to inform favorable strategies for vulnerable populations.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 7:42 PM
JMIR HumanFactors: Exploring Common and Novel Actualized Affordances of Fitbit: Mixed Methods Study
Exploring Common and Novel Actualized Affordances of Fitbit: Mixed Methods Study
Background: Although fitness apps could promote healthier lifestyles, evidence on the effectiveness of app-based interventions remains inconsistent. Previous studies have used affordance theory to identify the factors that generate exercise-related value for users. However, many fitness app affordance studies have examined multiple fitness apps collectively, assuming similar design intentions across platforms. Moreover, most have relied on predefined affordances rather than investigating emergent or novel ones that may reveal unique user–fitness app interactions. Objective: This study aimed to identify the common affordances actualized by Fitbit users and uncover novel affordances that emerge from their interactions with this specific app, thereby extending the understanding of how affordances contribute to user engagement and health outcomes. Methods: We used a 2-stage mixed methods design. First, a cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted with 442 US-based Fitbit users engaging in regular exercise. The participants selected affordances from a list identified in prior literature and could report additional affordances in open-text responses. To corroborate and extend the survey findings, 15,000 user reviews were collected from the Google Play Store, of which 2674 (17.8%) comments were automatically categorized into affordance themes and 1182 (7.9%) were manually validated as relevant. Reviews were thematically classified into affordance categories via a generative pretrained transformer–based approach guided by survey-identified affordances. Results: The survey revealed that the most frequently actualized affordances were updating (351 participants and 749 review mentions; total=1100) and reminding (319 participants and 143 mentions; total=462), underscoring Fitbit’s role in tracking progress and sustaining routines. Competing (99 participants and 88 mentions; total=187) and rewards (133 participants and 32 mentions; total=165) highlighted gamification, whereas comparing (151 participants and 8 mentions; total=159) and guidance (118 participants and 25 mentions; total=143) reflected benchmarking and instructional support. Other affordances such as searching (135 participants and 2 mentions; total=137), encouraging (75 participants and 19 mentions; total=94), and watching others (68 participants and 3 mentions; total=71) were less common, whereas recognizing (58 participants and 0 mentions; total=58) and self-presentation (47 participants and 1 mention; total=50) were the least common. The novel affordances included encouraging others (14 participants and 1 mention; total=15), accountability (3 participants and 9 mentions; total=12), and self-comparison (3 participants and 5 mentions; total=8). Conclusions: Most Fitbit users actualized updating and reminding affordances, whereas a limited number of users actualized the other affordances. Moreover, few Fitbit users actualized novel affordances that reflect self-regulation, an extension of social connection, and personal meaning. This study emphasizes that Fitbit should focus on core tracking and reminding for most users while providing optional features that foster guidance, community, accountability, and personal relevance. Designing features that facilitate the actualization of common and novel affordances may improve app effectiveness and, ultimately, the health benefits of fitness technologies.
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 7:05 PM
JMIR Public Health: Examining Artificial Intelligence Chatbots’ Responses in Providing Human Papillomavirus #Vaccine Information for Young Adults: Qualitative Content Analysis
Examining Artificial Intelligence Chatbots’ Responses in Providing Human Papillomavirus #Vaccine Information for Young Adults: Qualitative Content Analysis
Background: The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots for seeking health-related information is concerning, as they were not originally developed for delivering medical guidance. The quality of AI chatbots’ responses relies heavily on their training data and is often limited in medical contexts due to their lack of specific training data in medical literature. Findings on the quality of AI chatbot responses related to health are mixed. Some studies showed the quality surpassed physicians’ responses, while others revealed occasional major errors and low readability. This study addresses a critical gap by examining the performance of various AI chatbots in a complex, misinformation-rich environment. Objective: This study examined AI chatbots' responses to human papillomavirus (HPV)–related questions by analyzing structure, linguistic features, information accuracy and currency, and #Vaccination stance. Methods: We conducted a qualitative content analysis following the approach outlined by Schreier to examine 4 selected AI chatbots’ (ChatGPT 4, Claude 3.7 Sonnet, DeepSeek V3, and Docus [General AI Doctor]) responses to HPV #Vaccine questions. These questions, simulated by young adults, were adapted from items on the #Vaccine Conspiracy Beliefs Scale and Google Trends. The selection criteria for AI chatbots included popularity, accessibility, countries of origin, response update methods, and intended use. Two #Researchers, simulating a 22-year-old man or woman, collected 8 conversations between February 22 and 28, 2025. We used a deductive approach to develop initial code groups, then an inductive approach to generate codes. The responses were analyzed based on a comprehensive codebook, with codes examining response structure, linguistic features, information accuracy and currency, and #Vaccination stance. We also assessed readability using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and Reading Ease Score. Results: All AI chatbots cited evidence-based sources from reputable health organizations. We found no fabricated information or inaccuracies in numerical data. For complex questions, all AI chatbots appropriately deferred to health care professionals’ suggestions. All AI chatbots maintained a neutral or pro#Vaccine stance, corresponding with scientific consensus. The mean and range of response lengths varied [word count; ChatGPT: 436.4 (218-954); Claude: 188.0 (138-255); DeepSeek: 510.0 (325-735); and Docus: 159.4 (61-200)], as did readability [Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level; ChatGPT: 10.7 (6.0-14.9); Claude: 13.2 (7.7-17.8); DeepSeek: 11.3 (7.0-14.7); and Docus: 12.2 (8.9-15.5); and Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease Score; ChatGPT: 46.8 (25.4-72.2); Claude: 32.5 (6.3-67.3); DeepSeek: 43.7 (22.8-67.4); and Docus: 40.5 (19.6-58.2)]. ChatGPT and Claude offered personalized responses, while DeepSeek and Docus lacked this. Occasionally, some responses included broken or irrelevant links and medical jargon. Conclusions: Amidst an online environment saturated with misinformation, AI chatbots have the potential to serve as an alternative source of accurate HPV-related information to conventional online platforms (websites and #SocialMedia). Improvements in readability, personalization, and link accuracy are still needed. Furthermore, we recommend that users treat AI chatbots as complements, not replacements, to health care professionals’ guidance on clinical settings. Trial Registration:
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 7:05 PM
Developing a Service Quality Index System for AI Health Care Chatbots: Mixed Methods Study (mentions @jmirpub)
Developing a Service Quality Index System for AI Health Care Chatbots: Mixed Methods Study
Journal of Medical Internet Research · Journal of Medical Internet Research 10908 articles · JMIR Research Protocols 5440 articles · JMIR Formative ...
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 6:38 PM
People continue ozempic for weight loss despite side effects: study (mentions @jmirpub)
People continue ozempic for weight loss despite side effects: study
... Journal of Medical Internet Research. GLP 1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, have seen a surge in ...
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 6:38 PM
Study finds many continue Ozempic for weight loss despite side effects - Daijiworld.com (mentions @jmirpub)
Study finds many continue Ozempic for weight loss despite side effects - Daijiworld.com
A recent study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that many users are willing to continue using Ozempic despite ...
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 6:38 PM
JMIR Bioinformatics and Biotechnology Calls for Submissions on Bridging - BIOENGINEER.ORG (mentions @jmirpub)
JMIR Bioinformatics and Biotechnology Calls for Submissions on Bridging - BIOENGINEER.ORG
With a robust portfolio that includes the flagship Journal of Medical Internet Research, JMIR champions open access and technological advancement in ...
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 6:38 PM
Effectiveness of the Mobile-Based Diabetes Little Helper Video Intervention on Medication ... (mentions @jmirpub)
Effectiveness of the Mobile-Based Diabetes Little Helper Video Intervention on Medication ...
Journal of Medical Internet Research · Journal of Medical Internet Research 10908 articles · JMIR Research Protocols 5438 articles · JMIR Formative ...
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 6:38 PM
JMIR Publications' JMIR Bioinformatics and Biotechnology invites submissions on Bridging ... (mentions @jmirpub)
JMIR Publications' JMIR Bioinformatics and Biotechnology invites submissions on Bridging ...
Our portfolio features a range of peer-reviewed journals, including the renowned Journal of Medical Internet Research. To learn more about JMIR ...
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February 18, 2026 at 6:38 PM
Associations Among Cyberbullying Victimization, Inhibitory Control, Neural Activation of Error Processing, and Mental Health Problems in Adolescents: Neuroimaging, Retrospective Longitudinal Cohort Study Using the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Data
Associations Among Cyberbullying Victimization, Inhibitory Control, Neural Activation of Error Processing, and Mental Health Problems in Adolescents: Neuroimaging, Retrospective Longitudinal Cohort Study Using the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Data
Background: Cyberbullying victimization is prevalent and closely linked to mental health problems. However, existing research, often limited by cross-sectional designs and a focus on direct relationships, has yielded inconsistent results. Furthermore, the biological mechanisms underlying the relationship between cyberbullying victimization and psychopathological outcomes remain largely unclear at present. Objective: This retrospective cohort study aimed to explore the longitudinal associations among cyberbullying victimization, inhibitory control, brain activation during error processing, and mental health problems among adolescents. Methods: We curated the clinical, behavioral, and neuroimaging data (551/1186, 46.5% girls; 9-10 years at baseline) from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study, a nationally representative cohort established through school-based probability sampling (selected factors included gender, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and urbanicity). Participants were assessed by the cyberbullying question, the functional magnetic resonance imaging stop signal task for inhibitory control and error processing, and the Child Behavioral Checklist for externalizing and internalizing problems at 2-year (T1) and 4-year follow-up (T2). Linear mixed models were used to examine the retrospective longitudinal associations between these clinical, behavioral, and neuroimaging factors. Results: Linear mixed models showed that victims of cyberbullying at T1 exhibited significantly greater externalizing problems at T2 (β=0.25, 95% CI 0.06-0.45, PFDR=.02), but not for internalizing problems (β=–0.01, 95% CI –0.20 to 0.19, PFDR=.99) or deficits in inhibitory control (Correct Stop Rate: β=–0.02, 95% CI –0.26 to 0.21, PFDR=.85; Stop Signal Reaction Time: β=–0.07, 95% CI –0.27 to 0.13, PFDR=.85). Furthermore, cyberbullying victimization at T1 contributed to higher activation in the bilateral superior parietal gyri (left: β=0.36, 95% CI 0.10-0.61, PFDR=.04; right: β=0.34, 95% CI 0.08-0.59, PFDR=.04), right inferior parietal gyrus (β=0.32, 95% CI 0.07-0.57, PFDR=.04), and right posterior cingulate cortex (β=0.34, 95% CI 0.09-0.60, PFDR=.04) during error processing at T2. However, these neural alterations did not significantly mediate between cyberbullying victimization at T1 and externalizing problems at T2. Conclusions: This longitudinal functional magnetic resonance imaging study investigates neural correlates of cyberbullying victimization in adolescents. By extending prior research that has relied primarily on cross-sectional or behavioral data, this research demonstrates that this form of victimization is associated with altered neural activation during error processing in later development. The pattern of nonsignificant impairment in inhibitory control and mediation to externalizing problems suggests that these neural impacts may be better characterized by a state of heightened sensitivity and compensatory engagement than by direct damage. Overall, this study points to the error-processing network as a potential target for cognitive interventions and establishes a foundation for further exploration of other neural mechanisms between cyberbullying victimization and mental health outcomes. Trial Registration:
dlvr.it
February 18, 2026 at 6:34 PM
#Protocol for Standardized Single-Session #Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test for Measuring Peak Oxygen Uptake, Oxygen On/Off Kinetics, and Skeletal Muscle Oxygenation in ICU survivors: ICU Combined Assessment of #Cardio-Respiratory Exercise (ICU-CARE) #Study (preprint) #openscience #PeerReviewMe #PlanP
#Protocol for Standardized Single-Session #Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test for Measuring Peak Oxygen Uptake, Oxygen On/Off Kinetics, and Skeletal Muscle Oxygenation in ICU survivors: ICU Combined Assessment of #Cardio-Respiratory Exercise (ICU-CARE) #Study
Date Submitted: Feb 15, 2026. Open Peer Review Period: Feb 17, 2026 - Apr 14, 2026.
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February 18, 2026 at 6:22 PM