Design Research Methodology - Task 2: Research - Critical Review (Secondary research)
Name: Yan Zhi Xuan
Student ID: 0369425
Article 1
Emerging Wearable Biosensor Technologies for Stress Monitoring and Their Real-World Applications
Wu, J.Y., Ching, C.T.S., Wang, H.M.D. & Liao, L.D. (2022). Emerging wearable
biosensor technologies for stress monitoring and their real-world applications. Biosensors 2022, 12(12), 1097.
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6374/12/12/1097
Rationale
Wearable devices are increasingly used for monitoring physiological indices, mental health, and stress management. They can provide preliminary diagnoses, guide training, and interpret emotional changes. Stress-sensing devices can improve cognitive function and medical diagnosis. However, data errors can occur due to factors like wearable devices, sensor types, data reception methods, processing accuracy, and application reliability. Future medical platforms should be developed and product implementations clinically evaluated for accuracy and reliable research (Wu, Ching, Wang, & Liao, 2022).
Therefore, this article was chosen because it provides a comprehensive analysis of wearable biosensor technology's current status and future potential in stress monitoring. Through an extensive examination of various biosensors, including their mechanisms and real-world applications, the article offers valuable insights into the technological landscape. By presenting a balanced view of the strengths and weaknesses of these technologies, it equips readers with the necessary understanding to assess their utility and identify areas for enhancement.
Figure 1: Evolution of wearable devices.
Figure 2: Application of wearable technology.
Summary of the Article
Research Problem:
The article delves into the pressing necessity for reliable stress monitoring systems amid the rising prevalence of stress-related health issues. It scrutinizes the potential of wearable biosensor technologies to fulfill this need by enabling real-time and continuous monitoring of physiological stress indicators. Traditional stress assessment methods often lack convenience, invasiveness, and accuracy, rendering them unsuitable for real-time monitoring. Hence, the research problem focuses on exploring the viability of emerging wearable biosensor technologies as a solution to this challenge. By providing a comprehensive review of the current state and practical applications of these technologies across various real-world contexts, the article aims to shed light on their potential to revolutionize stress monitoring and management.
Methodology:
The authors conduct a comprehensive literature analysis, examining current advances in wearable biosensors for stress detection. They look at many types of sensors, including heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, blood pressure, EEG readings, electromyography (EMG) readings, electrooculography (EOG) readings, plethysmography (PPG) readings, galvanic skin response (GSR), skin temperature, etc. They analyse their processes, accuracy, and incorporation into wearable devices. Furthermore, the article reviews the effectiveness of these technologies using case studies and experimental data from clinical trials and real-life applications.
Discussion:
The discussion focuses on the strengths and limits of current wearable biosensor technology. The authors point out that, while several technologies show promise in reliably identifying stress indicators, there are issues with sensor accuracy, user comfort, data privacy, and the necessity for real-time processing. They also emphasise the significance of incorporating these technologies into larger health monitoring systems in order to provide complete mental health care support.
Conclusion by the Author[s]):
The authors acknowledge that wearable devices for physiological detection have become essential across various domains, from personal health monitoring to controlling robotic devices, leveraging advancements in tracking eye movements, brain waves, and sweat. Beyond monitoring, these devices increasingly focus on emotion detection, stress reduction, and cognitive training. However, technical challenges persist, such as ensuring sensor accuracy despite user activity and adjusting sensitivity. Commercial products combining wearables and biosensors lack robust evidence supporting claimed benefits, raising questions about their practical value and ethical data collection. Moving forward, increased collaboration between biosensors and applications holds promise for advancing precision medicine, improving users' quality of life, and generating substantial financial returns. To achieve this potential, close cooperation between health technology companies and researchers is crucial to validate product efficacy and scientific integrity, enabling widespread adoption in everyday life.
Strengths & Weaknesses of the Article
The article excels in providing a detailed overview of several wearable biosensor technologies, including their mechanics and real-world applications. In terms of analysis, the authors provide a balanced examination of the strengths and limits of different technologies, offering support for their findings. For real-world applications, this article effectively bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical application by combining case studies and clinical trial data. Moreover, the article's emphasis on future research directions and potential enhancements helps guide current and future work on this topic.
However, this article has notable weaknesses. Primarily, it lacks original research, focusing more on reviewing existing literature and case studies without contributing unique experimental data. he text's heavy reliance on technical jargon and elaborate details might alienate readers without a background in biomedical engineering or related fields. Moreover, the article does not sufficiently address user experience, such as ease of use, comfort, and feedback from actual users, which are critical factors for the widespread adoption of wearable technologies. Although data privacy and ethical concerns are mentioned, these issues could be more thoroughly explored given their importance in the practical deployment and acceptance of wearable biosensors.
My Conclusion of the Review
In conclusion, the article "Emerging Wearable Biosensor Technologies for Stress Monitoring and Their Real-World Applications" provides a valuable and comprehensive review of the current state and potential of wearable biosensors for stress monitoring. It effectively emphasises the future potential of new technologies while recognising the obstacles that must be addressed. Despite its dependence on previous literature and considerable technical details, the article is a valuable resource for researchers as well as practitioners in the field. It emphasises the significance of continuous innovation and multidisciplinary collaboration in improving the efficiency and accessibility of wearable stress monitoring devices.
Article 2
The Use of Wearable Technology in Providing Assistive Solutions for Mental Well-Being
Alhejaili, R. & Alomainy, A. (2023). The use of wearable technology in providing
assistive solutions for mental well-being. Sensors 2023, 23(17), 7378.
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/17/7378
Rationale
This article reviews and analyzes biomarkers used to identify stress, anxiety, and emotions, focusing on wearable technologies for mental wellness monitoring. It highlights the effectiveness of biofeedback training, which reduces anxiety and enhances self-control. Wearable devices can provide health and mental wellness solutions, as physical activity tracing reduces stressors and cognitive load （Alhejaili & Alomainy, 2023).
Therefore, this article was chosen because it focuses on mobile biofeedback software as a stress management aid. This study presents a tangible example of how mobile technology might be used in health coaching, with quantitative and qualitative data on its efficacy. The app's quasi-experimental design and real-world implementation make it an important case study for understanding the practical consequences of biofeedback technology in stress management. Despite their limitations, the promising first results demonstrate the promise of such therapies and the need for additional research.
Summary of the Article
Research Problem:
The article critically explores the pivotal role of wearable technology in addressing the escalating prevalence of mental health disorders globally. It delves into how these technological innovations serve as potent tools for not only monitoring but also managing and enhancing mental well-being. By continuously recording physiological and behavioural indicators in real time, wearables offer a unique opportunity for early detection, ongoing monitoring, and personalized interventions tailored to individual needs. This research problem underscores the urgency of leveraging wearable technology to provide assistive solutions for mental health, offering a promising avenue for mitigating the challenges posed by mental health disorders in contemporary society.
Methodology:
The authors meticulously conducted a thorough analysis of the current landscape of wearable devices targeting mental health enhancement. They scrutinized various devices and applications, classifying them based on the types of sensors employed and their specific mental health applications. This evaluation provided valuable insights into the efficacy of different technologies, drawing upon existing research and pilot projects. The research methodology adopted a comprehensive literature review coupled with quantitative analysis. Data collection involved administering a questionnaire survey to participants to gather their insights on tracking devices, followed by meticulous analysis using Excel. Primary data was sourced from credible electronic databases, with citations meticulously searched.
The study incorporated a range of study designs, including case-control, open, and cohort studies, underscoring the critical need for stress and anxiety monitoring. Inclusion criteria encompassed English studies published between 2010 and 2023 focusing on wearable technologies for mental health, while exclusion criteria filtered out non-English research and studies not evaluating wearable technology for mental health. The research design leaned towards positivism, utilizing a logical approach and a multi-method design. The sample size comprised over 100 papers, with 61 carefully selected after an exhaustive review, ensuring a robust representation of the current literature on wearable tracking devices primarily used for mental health observation. Ethical considerations were addressed through informed consent procedures.
Discussion:
The article aims to conduct a comprehensive systematic literature review focusing on wearable technologies for detecting mental well-being and cognitive effectiveness, particularly in workplace contexts. While some studies emphasize the potential of these technologies, various challenges in their application require further investigation. The review categorizes research into two key areas: laboratory-focused studies lacking real-life applicability and those incorporating real-life evidence. Findings suggest that methodologies relying on real-life data tend to yield more specific and consistent results, particularly in measuring stress and anxiety across different environmental conditions. However, shortcomings in sensor-based portable devices are noted, with some devices proving inadequate in providing reliable data on crucial indicators like body temperature, heart rate variability, and skin performance, which are vital for evaluating stress levels and anxiety disorders.
Furthermore, the manuscript underscores the importance of physical activity in promoting mental well-being, with wearable devices playing a significant role in monitoring parameters such as body weight, obesity level, calorie intake, and dietary habits. It highlights the growing prevalence of stress and anxiety globally, impacting both individuals and economies. The shortage of healthcare providers further exacerbates the challenge of monitoring vital signs effectively. Despite these challenges, wearable devices offer a promising solution due to their ease of use and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional laboratory instruments. Various devices introduced by companies like Roche Diagnostics and Abbott are noted for their potential in measuring vital signs, although the reliance on blood samples poses practical challenges, particularly in sports settings.
Conclusion by the Author[s]):
The authors conclude that this paper underscores the significant impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) across various sectors, particularly healthcare, where wearable devices have emerged as a transformative tool. These devices, equipped with sensors and biosensors, enable the monitoring of diverse parameters and biomarkers to assess stress levels. Widely utilized wearable devices such as ECG, EEG, EMG, PPG, and BT facilitate the detection of vital indicators like galvanic skin conductance, heart rate variability, and body temperature. However, the paper also sheds light on the challenges faced by both participants and researchers in implementing wearable devices. Participants often encounter difficulties in wearing EEG patches and understanding device functionality. Despite these hurdles, wearable devices have proven instrumental in detecting stress and anxiety levels, thereby facilitating the implementation of tailored strategies and fostering a safe working environment conducive to enhancing employee productivity and creativity. In conclusion, the paper underscores the potential of wearable devices in bolstering mental well-being within workplace settings.
Strengths & Weaknesses of the Article
The article presents a comprehensive examination of wearable technology's applications in mental health, offering valuable insights into the current landscape. Through a meticulous analysis of real-world studies and experiments, it provides practical information regarding the efficacy and challenges of various technologies, enhancing understanding in this field. Furthermore, its forward-looking discussion on future directions, particularly regarding integration with artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, offers a glimpse into potential advancements, fostering anticipation for the evolution of mental health interventions. Additionally, the article's emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration underscores the multifaceted nature of mental health issues, advocating for a holistic approach to address them effectively, which adds depth to its analysis.
While the article offers valuable insights into wearable technology's role in mental health, it has notable weaknesses. Its heavy reliance on existing literature limits originality, and its technical language may hinder accessibility for non-experts. Although it discusses the pros and cons of wearable technologies, a deeper exploration of user experience and ethical considerations would enhance its analysis. Overall, while informative, the article could benefit from addressing these limitations to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.
My Conclusion of the Review
In conclusion, this article is a thorough and insightful examination of the current and potential applications of wearable technology in mental health treatment. The article summarises the benefits and challenges of these technologies, highlighting the need for additional research and interdisciplinary collaboration. Despite its reliance on current literature and technical jargon, the article is an invaluable resource for researchers, doctors, and developers interested in the interface of wearable technology and mental health. It emphasises the potential of wearable devices in providing specific and proactive mental health care, while also emphasising crucial areas for improvement in order for these technologies to be more generally embraced and effective.
Article 3
Use of a Mobile Biofeedback App to Provide Health Coaching for Stress Self-management: Pilot Quasi-Experiment
Son, C., Hegde, S., Markert, C., Zahed, K. & Sasangohar, F. (2023). Use of a mobile
biofeedback app to provide health coaching for stress self-management: Pilot quasi-experiment. JMIR Formative Research 2023, 7, e41018.
https://formative.jmir.org/2023/1/e41018/
Rationale
This article was chosen because it enhances the focus from stress monitoring to overall mental well-being, emphasising the significance of wearable technology in mental health treatment. This article explores how continuous monitoring and real-time feedback can be used to provide proactive and personalised mental health interventions. Its emphasis on real-world studies and pilot projects gives concrete proof of the effectiveness and limitations of wearable technologies in this arena. Furthermore, its consideration of future directions and integration with artificial intelligence offers a forward-thinking perspective to the evaluation.
Figure 3: Overview of the Biofeedback app mobile health intervention.
Summary of the Article
Research Problem:
The article analyses and investigates the efficacy of a mobile biofeedback software aimed to help people manage stress through health coaching. The primary goal of the study is if the app can considerably reduce stress levels and improve stress management abilities in users.
The research problem addressed in this study is whether mobile health technology combined with health coaching can enhance users' ability to self-manage their mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as college student veterans. The research aims to assess whether the "Biofeedback" app, combined with health coaching, improves mental health self-management among college student veterans. Results suggest the app holds promise in reducing stress levels, as participants reported positive perceptions of its effectiveness. However, further research is needed to explore long-term effects and enhance app features, emphasizing the ongoing need for innovation in mental health technology.
Methodology:
The study employed a quasi-experimental design, wherein a pilot group of participants utilized the mobile biofeedback software over a specified duration. Participants received health coaching through the app, which offered real-time feedback based on physiological data, including heart rate variability (HRV). Stress levels and stress management skills were assessed before and after the intervention using validated questionnaires and physiological measurements.
The research assessed the effectiveness of the mobile app "Biofeedback" in providing stress self-management support to college student veterans' mental health concerns. Twenty-four veterans participated, with 10 using the app and 14 without it. Both groups underwent a deep-breathing exercise technique, completed self-assessments, and participated in an exit interview to evaluate the app's user experience and perceived benefits.
Discussion:
The study examined the effectiveness of a mobile Biofeedback app as a semester-long intervention for mental health issues among college student veterans. Initial results from lab sessions showed that deep-breathing exercises lowered participants' stress levels, which was consistent with previous controlled investigations. Furthermore, daily usage of the app revealed that breathing exercises dramatically reduced individuals' heart rates immediately after exercise, implying practical benefits in controlling stress outside of controlled circumstances. The study also emphasised the potential of health coaching via mobile Biofeedback apps, which are given via smart devices such as smartphones and smartwatches.
However, there was no significant difference in mental health scores between the intervention and control groups, and the breathing exercises only had a short-term effect on heart rate reduction. Thus, more study is needed to investigate the long-term effects of coached breathing exercises on perceived mental health symptoms and overall mental well-being in everyday life. It is also encouraged to investigate the impact of complementary biofeedback approaches such as mindfulness training and meditation over long periods of time utilising mobile health coaching applications. Overall, the study emphasises the necessity of creating mobile mental health apps to help vulnerable groups such as college students and veterans manage mental health issues successfully.
Conclusion by the Author[s]):
The authors conclude that the pilot study provides promising evidence for the efficacy of mobile biofeedback apps in stress reduction and stress management skill development. They encourage conducting additional research with bigger and more diverse populations to confirm these findings and investigate the long-term advantages and use of these apps. The study explores student veterans' use of the mobile Biofeedback app, revealing short-term benefits of breathing exercises for managing COVID-19 stress. It suggests that proper breathing techniques decrease heart rate and participants appreciate the app's mental health coaching system. Further research is needed to confirm long-term benefits.
Strengths & Weaknesses of the Article
This article presents an innovative approach to stress management through the utilization of mobile biofeedback apps, offering valuable insights into their potential efficacy. Through a combination of quantitative and qualitative data, the study provides a robust assessment of the app's impact on stress levels and management skills, indicating promising outcomes for users. Its practical significance lies in demonstrating how technology can be leveraged to enhance stress management in daily life, with implications for a broad range of individuals seeking effective coping mechanisms.
However, the article's limitations, including a small sample size, brief duration, and lack of a control group, suggest the need for further research to validate and generalize its findings. Future studies could explore the app's effectiveness across diverse populations and assess its long-term viability as a tool for stress management. Despite these limitations, the study underscores the potential of mobile biofeedback apps in empowering individuals to better manage stress and improve their overall well-being in today's digital age.
My Conclusion of the Review
The article makes a persuasive argument for the use of mobile biofeedback technology in stress management. The study's innovative strategy and promising first results emphasise the potential of such apps to improve users' stress management skills. However, the study is restricted by its small sample size, short duration, and absence of a control group, necessitating more investigations with more rigorous designs to validate these findings. Furthermore, the article provides significant insights into the fields of digital health treatments for stress management and emphasises the importance of further research and refining of mobile biofeedback technology.
Reference List
Ahram, T. & Falcão, C. (2020). Advances in usability, user experience, wearable and
assistive technology. Springer.
Alhejaili, R. & Alomainy, A. (2023). The use of wearable technology in providing
assistive solutions for mental well-being. Sensors 2023, 23(17), 7378.
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/17/7378
Peake, J.M., Kerr, G. & Sullivan, S.P. (2018). A critical review of consumer wearables,
mobile applications, and equipment for providing biofeedback, monitoring stress, and sleep in physically active populations. Frontiers in Physiology. Exercise Physiology, 9.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2018.00743/full
Son, C., Hegde, S., Markert, C., Zahed, K. & Sasangohar, F. (2023). Use of a mobile
biofeedback app to provide health coaching for stress self-management: Pilot quasi-experiment. JMIR Formative Research 2023, 7, e41018.
https://formative.jmir.org/2023/1/e41018/
Wu, J.Y., Ching, C.T.S., Wang, H.M.D. & Liao, L.D. (2022). Emerging wearable
biosensor technologies for stress monitoring and their real-world applications. Biosensors 2022, 12(12), 1097.
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6374/12/12/1097
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