Communication Methods Research Articles

Domestic and Marital Relationships Among Muslim Couples in Northwest Geopolitical Zone, Nigeria from 2013-2023: A Case Study at Ringim Localgovernment Area

This research investigated marital relationship among Muslim Couples in Ringim Local Government Area; The Institution of marriage occupied highest position in Islam, the importance of marital relationship plays significant role within the frame work of Islam.This research investigated and provided some solution to address these issues among Muslim couples in Ringim Local Government Area. The methodology employed in the conduct of this research is ethnography of communication method which comprises the use of observation and interview as primary sources of data. More so, secondary sources of data collection such as: written literature, textbooks, journals and browsed materials on challenges of marital relationship among Muslim Couples was also used. The findings propose valued perceptions and recommendations bring into line with best practices of marital relationship, contributing to the advancement of institution of marriage among couples in the Area.

Mastering trust and commitment in the virtual age

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This study investigated virtual team members’ perception of trust and commitment when using computer-mediated communication across different industries. The results showed that communication method significantly impacted trust and commitment levels, while industry type alone did not produce significant differences. Visual communication methods consistently demonstrated higher trust scores across all industries compared to non-visual methods. Key managerial insights emanating from the findings emphasize the importance of strategic tool selection and the universal benefits of visual communication tools in building trust across virtual teams, regardless of industry context. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Systematic characterization of extracellular vesicles from potato (Solanum tuberosum cv. Laura) roots and peels: biophysical properties and proteomic profiling

IntroductionExtracellular vesicles (EVs) facilitate inter and intra-species/kingdom communication through biomolecule transfer, including proteins and small RNAs. Plant-derived EVs, a hot topic in the field, hold immense capability both as a potential biomarker to study plant physiology and as a biomaterial that can be mass-produced to be used in various industries ranging from cosmetics and food additives to biological pesticides. However, a systematic characterization of plant EVs is required to establish a foundation for further applications and studies.MethodsIn this study, EVs were enriched from hydroponically cultivated potato plants (Solanum tuberosum, cv. Laura). We isolated EVs from root exudates and the apoplastic wash of potato peels using vacuum infiltration. These EVs were then systematically characterized for their biophysical and chemical properties to compare with standard EV characteristics and to explore their roles in plant physiology.ResultsBiophysical and chemical analyses revealed morphological similarities between potato root and peel-derived EVs. The average diameter of root-derived EVs (164.6 ± 7.3 nm) was significantly larger than that of peel-derived EVs (132.2 ± 2.0 nm, p < 0.004). Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) demonstrated substantial protein enrichment in purified EVs compared to crude samples, with a 42% enrichment for root EVs and 25% for peel EVs. Only 11.8% of the identified proteins were common between root and peel EVs, with just 2% of significantly enriched proteins shared. Enriched pathways in both EV proteomes were associated with responses to biotic and abiotic stress, suggesting a defensive role of EVs in plants.DiscussionWith further experimentation to elucidate the specific methods of communication, these findings increase the details known about plant EVs in terms of their physical and chemical characteristics and their potential functions, aiding in sustainable agricultural waste utilization for large-scale EV production, aligning with the concept of “valorization”.

NĂNG LỰC HIỆN TẠI, THÁCH THỨC VÀ NHU CẦU NÂNG CAO NĂNG LỰC CỦA CÁN BỘ KHUYẾN NÔNG TRONG BỐI CẢNH BIẾN ĐỔI KHÍ HẬU TẠI TỈNH BẮC KẠN

This study aims to assess the current capacity, challenges and needs of capacity building of agricultural extension workers in Bac Kan province under the context of climate change. The research was conducted during 2021-2022, using semi-structured questionnaires for face-to-face interviews with 17 leaders and 59 staff members of agricultural extension agencies in the province. Results show that the agricultural extension workforce of Bac Kan province has advantages in terms of qualifications and work experience. Nonetheless, they also encountered a number of challenges under the context of increasingly changing environment. These include: (1) passivity in guiding production and technical transfer activities, (2) difficulties in pest and disease forecast and management, (3) increased workload; and (4) their communication and/or community outreach activities face many challenges, especially in localities with ethnic minorities, scattered housing locations, and difficult travel access. Most of the agricultural extension workers have not been trained in both agricultural extension methods and climate change adaptation. Technical climate-resilient production manuals (for both crops and livestock), effective communication methods and information sharing networks among agricultural extension officers were considered the main learning resources that they desired to be equipped to effectively carry out their tasks under the context of climate change.

Exploring the Needs and Challenges in Teaching English Grammar Communicatively in Albanian Context

The aim of this study is to explore through details of teaching English grammar communicatively within the Albanian context. With the global trend for communicative language teaching, Albanian teachers of English as a foreign language face specific challenges in attempting to integrate this approach effectively in their classes. The research applies a mixed-methods approach, including a questionnaire and structured interviews with teachers from several districts in Albania. Both cases intend to assess the actual situation of teaching grammar of English as a Foreign Language, identify main obstacles, and highlight opportunities for integrating communicative grammar. Findings indicate that even though the teachers are aware of the theoretical aspects of communicative methods, sometimes they find it hard to implement them due to limited resources, insufficient teacher training, and traditional teaching curricula. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for professional development programs and appropriate classroom materials that align with the communicative approach. By addressing these challenges, the research aims to provide concrete recommendations for teachers and policymakers to improve English grammar teaching in Albanian schools, so as to improve language proficiency and communicative competence among learners of different ages and educational levels in a larger context.

THE ISLAMIC COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES OF THE NATIONAL AMIL ZAKAT AGENCY (BAZNAS) MAKASSAR IN PUBLIC SERVICE

<p><strong><em>This study aims to identify the Islamic communication strategies implemented by the National Amil Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) Makassar and to assess the community’s response to this communication model. The research utilizes Islamic communication theory, which is grounded in the Quran and Hadith, focusing on the morality of the communicator, the content, and the ethics of communication. The study adopts a mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative). Descriptive analysis was conducted throughout the research process to draw conclusions. The results reveal that the Islamic communication strategies applied by BAZNAS Makassar adheres to the core functions of Islamic communication, which include conveying information, socializing, reminding, guiding, motivating, and convincing the public about the importance and benefits of zakat, infaq, and alms (ZIA). Furthermore, the delivery of messages incorporates the principles of qaulan ma'rufan, qaulan kariman, qaulan maysuran, qaulan balighan, and qaulan sadidan, along with other Islamic communication ethics. The impact of this approach has led to high levels of public satisfaction with BAZNAS’s communication methods and models, which are perceived as effective in conveying Islamic values. This model has also increased public trust in the transparency and accountability of ZIA management in Makassar City, thereby enhancing community participation. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Keywords: BAZNAS Makassar, infaq and alms, islamic communication strategies, zakat management </em></strong></p>

Design of a Multiband Antenna Using Auxiliary Classifier Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Network for IoT Applications

ABSTRACTThe rapid expansion of Internet of Things (IoT) applications presents unprecedented challenges for antenna design, demanding solutions that are versatile, efficient, and capable of operating across multiple frequency bands. This paper addresses these challenges through the development of a design of a multiband antenna using Auxiliary Classifier Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Network for IoT applications (DMA‐ACWGAN‐IoT). Here, the Auxiliary Classifier Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Network (ACWGAN) is employed to generate synthetic data representing electromagnetic field distributions and antenna characteristics across various frequencies. The proposed metamaterial‐based Multiple‐Input Multiple‐Output (MIMO) antenna contains four discrete elements, each provided by a micro strip feed. The structures overall width and length are 60 and 52 mm. The metamaterial is printed on a patch and dispersed from the fields with the most effective coupling. The proposed structures strong impedance bandwidth works at 8.3 GHz, 10.8 GHz, 12.3 GHz, 13.7 GHz, 16.1 GHz, and 18.1 GHz, fabricating the proposed antenna prototype using a substrate made of FR‐4 material. The proposed DMA‐ACWGAN‐IoT design provides 6.5 dB maximum gain and 25.40%, 21.60%, and 20.05% higher efficiency compared to existing dual band antenna design with resonance frequency prediction under machine learning models (DBA‐PRF‐ML), machine learning verification depending on a distinctive SWB multiple slotted four‐port high isolated MIMO antenna loaded with metasurface for the applications of IoT (SWB‐MIMO‐IOT‐ML), and dual‐band miniaturized composite right–left‐handed transmission line ZOR antenna along machine learning method for microwave communication (DB‐ZORA‐MC‐ML).

Enhancing daily oral PrEP adherence with digital communications: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) stands as an effective tool in preventing HIV transmission among individuals at risk of HIV infection. However, the effectiveness of daily oral PrEP is contingent on the adherence of its users, which can pose a challenge for many individuals. Various studies have explored different interventions aimed at bolstering PrEP adherence. One recurring type of intervention revolves around digital communication (e.g., SMS, mobile applications) to send reminders for PrEP usage. The objective of our systematic review and meta-analysis is to address the following research question: What is the effectiveness of digital communication interventions in enhancing daily oral PrEP adherence among individuals at a heightened risk of HIV infection? This paper presents our study protocol. We will conduct searches across four health-related databases: Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. We will also explore other sources, including clinical trials registries and grey literature. Our search will be restricted to original randomized controlled trials published in English, French, and Spanish conducted since 2012, when PrEP was approved, to today. To ensure rigor, three reviewers will perform the systematic review and meta-analysis. This systematic review will adhere to the guidelines outlined in the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Our primary outcome of interest is proper daily oral PrEP adherence, which we will measure using association metrics (e.g., odds ratios). This review will offer insights into the effectiveness of utilizing digital communication methods to assist individuals at risk of HIV in improving their PrEP adherence. International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42023471269.

Features of Hedging Strategies Performed by the Federal Reserve Chair in Press Conferences

This study examined the pragmatic functions of hedging strategies used by the Federal Reserve System (Fed) Chair during press conferences. The Fed’s significant influence on U.S. monetary policy and global financial markets makes its communication methods crucial yet linguistically underexplored. This study employed a mixed-methods approach to examine the frequency and types of hedges, their situational usage, and pragmatic functions. The findings revealed a notable use of approximators and shields to adapt to the complexities of financial communication, with adaptors and plausibility shields being the most common. The Fed Chair employed hedging strategies to address sensitive economic issues, uncertain policies, and matters affecting financial markets and public perception. These hedging strategies were used to mitigate potential criticism, enhance flexibility, soften the tone, maintain credibility, ensure effective information delivery, and improve politeness. The study contributed to the understanding of linguistic hedging strategies in financial communication and underscored the strategic use of language in economic policy-making and financial stability.

A Robust Spectrum Allocation Framework Towards Inference Management in Multichannel Cognitive Radio Networks

ABSTRACTRecently, there has been research on using cognitive radio to increase the effectiveness of spectrum resources. Secondary users (SUs) sense, identify, and access frequency bands presently unoccupied by primary users (PUs). Indeed, the precise communication methods of PUs remain consistently unknown to SUs. Designing an appropriate system for spectrum monitoring along with access is necessary to address the challenging problem of guaranteeing the quality of service (QoS) for PUs and satisfying the demand of SUs for spectrum resources. When several SUs and different channels are available, spectrum allocation and sharing must be considered. This work proposes a system for allocating spectrum to multiple users and sharing multiple channels for SUs dealing with PUs with uncertain behavior. The study focuses on analyzing the interference caused to PUs by the dynamic access of SUs. The analysis of the interference produced by SUs is conducted using renewal theory. Queuing theory determines the highest average data rate achievable by SUs while considering the limitations imposed by interference to PUs and the need to maintain stability in the secondary network. Comprehensive simulations validate the efficacy of this approach.

TMIC-65. USING BIOINFORMATICS TO INVESTIGATE THE TUMOR MICROENVIRONMENT OF DIFFUSE MIDLINE GLIOMA

Abstract Diffuse midline gliomas, H3K27-altered (DMG) are highly malignant brain tumors with a 2-year survival rate of less than 10 percent. These tumors are primarily localized to the pons and thalamus regions of the brain. The cellular compartment of the tumor microenvironment (TME) which surrounds a tumor is composed of tumor and non-tumor cells, such as immune cells and oligodendrocytes. Communication between tumor cells and non-tumor cells in the TME can promote tumor growth and targeting communication networks could improve patient outcomes. Using a bioinformatics approach and publicly available pediatric DMG single-cell RNA-sequence (scRNA-seq) data, several methods of communication (secreted signaling, cell-cell contact, and extracellular matrix) within the DMG TME were identified. Based on the high communication probability, outgoing and incoming networks from non-tumor cells and tumor cells were inferred, such as the Complement, Galectin, and CD96 pathways. Specific ligand-receptor interactions between non-tumor and tumor cells were also found, including LGALS9-HAVCR2, PDGFB/PDGFRA, and COL4A5/ITGAV. A subsequent literature review was performed to validate these identified pathways in other tumors, including gliomas, and inform future in vitro experiments with primary DMG cell lines.

Development of Research Skills in Students of Pedagogical Science in the Communicative Method of Teaching

Research abilities of students of pedagogical university are an integral quality of personality, which is expressed in the recognition of the value of such activity, in the possession of the methodology of investigative work, in the formation and development of the ability to investigative work, in solving investigative problems and their use in further professional activity. The article provides evidence of the importance of the development of communication and research skills as a guarantee of successful training of student teachers. The authors provide key skills of scientific-research and communicative approach of teaching.

Study on the Changes of Family Intergenerational Communication Mode in China from the Perspective of Social Media

This study explored the influence of social media on the intergenerational communication mode of China family through various methods, and found that social media improved the convenience and diversity of communication and promoted the interaction of family members of different ages. It breaks the limitations of traditional communication methods, provides a variety of communication forms, makes information transmission more intuitive and fast, and strengthens family cohesion. The functions of social media, such as group chat and sharing, enable family members to keep in touch anytime and anywhere, especially among teenagers and young people. However, the popularity of social media has also brought about problems such as digital divide, privacy leakage and over-reliance on online communication. Therefore, family members need to improve their social media literacy and balance online and offline communication to promote healthy and harmonious family relationships. Generally speaking, the application of social media in China's families has changed the traditional communication mode and had a far-reaching impact on the development of family relations.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DIGITAL COMMUNICATION IN DELIVERING MESSAGES TO GENERATION Z IN THE COUNSELING PROCESS(A Study of Family Planning Counselors in Tanggamus Regency, Lampung)

The rapid advancement of the digital era has significantly influenced social activities, particularly in information and communication technology, which now encompasses visual, audio, and audiovisual formats. Family Planning Counselors serve as the frontline representatives of the National Population and Family Planning Board, and their counseling activities must adapt creatively to current trends to effectively engage their target audience. Conventional communication methods have proven less effective and appealing to Generation Z, who perceive them as monotonous and unengaging. Thus, this study aims to explore the effectiveness of digital communication in delivering messages to Generation Z.This research applies the conventional-interactional theory as a framework. Data collection techniques include field observations, interviews with key informants, and documentation of research findings. The results indicate that digital communication surpasses traditional methods in terms of communication design, message quality, time efficiency, and overcoming spatial limitations. Through digital platforms, Family Planning Counselors can deliver messages more effectively on a large scale, aligning with the evolving preferences and technological familiarity of Generation Z

Innovative Strategies for Hosts in the Dissemination of China's Narrative System in the Age of Intelligent Media

In the report of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the "second integration" emphasized the contemporary significance of excellent traditional Chinese culture, highlighting the construction of an independent narrative system based on the integration of traditional Chinese culture and local cultural practices. In today’s society, China faces challenges in the dissemination of its narrative system, such as the external shaping of cultural symbols and a relatively singular form of cultural communication. The integration of culture and tourism has become a popular topic in recent years, with tourism programs serving as a window to showcase Chinese culture. Although cultural programs and tourism programs have both seen substantial development, creating a comprehensive program that effectively integrates both remains a task requiring continuous reflection from hosts. Particularly, current tourism programs face challenges like weak cultural relevance, lack of distinctive hosting styles, and hollow content. These issues present new challenges to hosts and offer great development potential for related programs. The key topic of this paper is how hosts can leverage their expertise to expand the program’s reach or enhance its content dissemination. Through research, the paper identifies innovative approaches for hosts in cultural tourism programs, summarized into three phases: tasks to be completed in the pre-production, production, and post-production stages. The analysis covers the core content, the host’s positioning, and communication methods. The proposed innovative paths provide new perspectives and ideas for more effectively disseminating Chinese cultural symbols abroad.

Feasibility Study on the International Promotion of Wushu Bingdao under the Belt and Road Initiative: A Strategy Exploration Based on Multi-Method Analysis

Abstract Background: This study aims to explore the feasibility of the international promotion of Wushu Bingdao within the context of the Belt and Road Initiative. As a significant component of traditional Chinese culture, Wushu Bingdao holds potential for cross-cultural exchange. However, its promotion faces multiple challenges in the globalized context, such as cultural differences, a shortage of skilled practitioners, market competition, and the limitations of traditional promotion methods. Methods: Utilizing literature review, expert interviews, and qualitative analysis, this study systematically reviews literature related to the promotion of Wushu Bingdao, analyzing its cultural connotations and historical heritage, and identifying key obstacles to international promotion. Strategic recommendations are proposed to address these challenges. Results: The study reveals that enhancing the understanding of the cultural essence of wushu, developing a specialized team of international promotion professionals, standardizing the Wushu Bingdao system, and employing innovative international communication methods can significantly increase the visibility and influence of Wushu Bingdao globally, facilitating its exchange and development within global cultural diversity. Conclusion: Despite the numerous challenges facing the international promotion of Wushu Bingdao, leveraging the Belt and Road Initiative platform and combining innovative promotion strategies offer the potential for broader recognition and practice of Chinese Wushu Bingdao worldwide.

Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023: An Overview of Key Amendments

The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA) represents a pivotal legislative development in Indian law, serving as a comprehensive update to the Indian Evidence Act of 1872. This new Act modernizes the approach to legal procedures, placing a particular emphasis on the handling and acceptance of electronic evidence in courts. Comprising 170 sections, the BSA replaces the antiquated colonial terminology found in previous legislation with more relevant and contemporary language that reflects current practices and technological realities. One of the most significant reforms introduced by the BSA is the broadened acceptance of digital records as admissible evidence, which acknowledges the rapid technological advancements that have transformed communication and documentation methods in recent years. The scope of the BSA extends to military courts, indicating a major overhaul in the legal framework of India. Furthermore, the Act redefines key concepts such as "documents" and "evidence," explicitly incorporating digital formats to ensure clarity and consistency in legal proceedings. These vital changes set the stage for a more technologically adept legal system in India, representing a substantial evolution in evidence law while addressing the pressing need for modernization in legal practices and procedures.

“I’ll Be Here:” Reflections on Representation and Research Communication Through Zine Work

This article explores the decision-making process that culminated in the creation of a zine as a responsive research communication tool. The zine “I’ll Be Here” emerged from research conducted with community organizations in three Ontario cities as an alternative format to return research findings to participants in a form more accessible than a conventional academic manuscript. This reflective piece not only draws attention to the limitations of academic writing for knowledge mobilization, but also amplifies the need for research communication strategies capable of encapsulating the richness of knowledge producers’ experiences. Exploring the intricacies of communicating social science research effectively and contemplating the extension of responsive reciprocal research values into writing, this article emphasizes the potential of creative research communication methods like zine work to be effective, accessible, and inclusive avenues for knowledge mobilization.

A Q-Learning-Based Approach to Design an Energy-Efficient MAC Protocol for UWSNs Through Collision Avoidance

Deploying and effectively utilizing wireless sensor networks (WSNs) in underwater habitats remains a challenging task. In underwater wireless sensors networks (UWSNs), the availability of a continuous energy source for communicating with nodes is either very costly or is prohibited due to the marine life law enforcement agencies. So, in order to address this issue, we present a Q-learning-based approach to designing an energy-efficient medium access control (MAC) protocol for UWSNs through collision avoidance. The main goal is to prolong the network’s lifespan by optimizing the communication methods, specifically focusing on improving the energy efficiency of the MAC protocols. Factors affecting the energy consumption in communication are adjustments to the interference ranges, i.e., changing frequencies repeatedly to obtain optimal communication; data packet retransmissions in case of a false acknowledgment; and data packet collision occurrences in the channel. Our chosen protocol stands out by enabling sensor (Rx) nodes to avoid collisions without needing extra communication or prior interference knowledge. According to the results obtained through simulations, our protocol may increase the network’s performance in terms of network throughput by up to 23% when compared to benchmark protocols depending on the typical traffic load. It simultaneously decreases end-to-end latency, increases the packet delivery ratio (PDR), boosts channel usage, and lessens packet collisions by over 38%. All these gains result in minimizing the network’s energy consumption, with a proportional gain.

Talk2Care: Facilitating Asynchronous Patient-Provider Communication with Large-Language-Model

Despite the plethora of telehealth applications to assist home-based older adults and healthcare providers, basic messaging and phone calls are still the most common communication methods, which suffer from limited availability, information loss, and process inefficiencies. One promising solution to facilitate patient-provider communication is to leverage large language models (LLMs) with their powerful natural conversation and summarization capability. However, there is a limited understanding of LLMs' role during the communication. We first conducted two interview studies with both older adults (N=10) and healthcare providers (N=9) to understand their needs and opportunities for LLMs in patient-provider asynchronous communication. Based on the insights, we built an LLM-powered communication system, Talk2Care, and designed interactive components for both groups: (1) For older adults, we leveraged the convenience and accessibility of voice assistants (VAs) and built an LLM-powered conversational interface for effective information collection. (2) For health providers, we built an LLM-based dashboard to summarize and present important health information based on older adults' conversations with the VA. We further conducted two user studies with older adults and providers to evaluate the usability of the system. The results showed that Talk2Care could facilitate the communication process, enrich the health information collected from older adults, and considerably save providers' efforts and time. We envision our work as an initial exploration of LLMs' capability in the intersection of healthcare and interpersonal communication.