Acu.ation: Real Time Acupoint Stimulation To Mediate The Urge To Smoke.

Abstract

Acu.ation is an intervention that aims to mediate the urge to smoke by pairing a wearable device that delivers transcutaneous electric acupoint stimulation (TEAS) with a mobile application that provides Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP)(Figure 1). Given the pervasiveness of cigarette smoking, high rates of relapse, and limitations of existing treatments, it is critical to explore new methods of relapse prevention. Our solution draws from acupuncture's global use in treating addiction and recent evidence that non-invasive TEAS can reduce the urge to smoke after exposure to a drug-related cue. Specifically, we have designed a device formed to four acupoints (LI4, PC8, PC6, and TH5) located on the wrist and hand, and programmed to deliver 5-15mA stimulation. Through a paired mobile application, individuals are simultaneously guided through an MBRP intervention to help them take control of their response to the trigger. Together, this system provides real-time relief from the urge to smoke so individuals can better engage with cognitive behavioral relapse prevention strategies in high risk moments.

Cruising Queer HCI on the DL: A Literature Review of LGBTQ+ People in HCI

“…We also saw HCI researchers increasingly discussing queer people in conjunction with other axes of marginalization, such as work on street harassment describing LGBTQ+ people as a "traditionally marginalized" group [56]. Authors also frequently mention LGBTQ+ marginalization in long lists of other axes of marginalization (e.g., gender, class, ability, race), framing these groups as "historically marginalized populations" [170], "non-dominant groups" [109], or "vulnerable communities" [89]. This work speaks to growing discussion of "marginalized people" in HCI, but in a manner that can be homogenizing.…”