Communication Tools Research Articles

A qualitative exploration of the client-provider relationship and its role in discussing sexual health and HIV among African American women in the US South

ObjectiveSexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, are a key contributor to psychological and physical morbidity across the United States (US). African American (AA) women are disproportionately impacted by STIs, particularly in the Deep South of the US. Strong patient-provider communication can help to increase client understanding of STI prevention and treatment options. This study aimed to explore factors influencing effective patient-provider relationships and communication around STIs (including HIV) and sexual health broadly, which will ultimately inform the refinement of a patient-provider communication tool for discussing PrEP as an HIV prevention method. MethodsAs part of a larger study focused on PrEP implementation, in-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted among cisgender AA women who are PrEP-eligible, both with and without PrEP experience, as well as providers from three federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and HIV service agencies in Alabama. Data were analyzed using content analysis. ResultsA total of 41 participants enrolled, including 21 clients (n = 6 PrEP experienced; n = 15 PrEP naïve) and 20 providers. Qualitative data were organized across the following domains: meaning of health and sexual health, factors influencing the client-provider relationship, and factors influencing sexual health discussions among clients and providers. Key factors influencing client-provider relationships were organized at client, provider, and clinic levels. Factors impacting sexual health discussions between clients and providers were organized at client, provider, and structural levels. ConclusionThese interviews identified key determinants of effective client-provider communication pertaining to sexual health among cisgender AA women in the US South who were receiving care at FQHCs and HIV service organizations. Individual, provider, and clinic-level factors were identified that have implications for designing sexual health interventions for cisgender AA women.

Language is a “quite useless” tool: A rejoinder to Fedorenko, Piantadosi, and Gibson’s “Language is primarily a tool for communication rather than thought”

Contrary to the prevailing assumption that language is “primarily a tool for communication rather than thought”, I argue that language is, to invoke Oscar Wilde, “quite useless”. Arguing from aesthetic philosophy and the minimalist program for linguistic theory, I conject that language, like art, is not “for” anything—it simply is, conforming to aesthetic rather than utilitarian principles. Of course, like art, language can be a powerful instrument of communication, but its function is not that of expressing thought; it creates thoughts, “primarily” for communicating with oneself, engaging in Popperian critical rationalism, making thoughts (e.g., sentences, constructive proofs) to match Platonic objects (e.g., propositions, classical proofs).

Investigating how AI Technologies Influence Changing Social Norms and Behaviors on Social Media, Particularly in Areas like Communication and Self-Presentation

Every community This study investigates the influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies on communication styles and self-presentation on social media platforms. The primary objectives include examining how AI tools impact user behavior and measuring their effects on engagement metrics. A quantitative analysis of 350 participants revealed a significant positive correlation between AI filter usage and engagement, with correlation coefficients of 0.65 for likes and 0.58 for comments. Additionally, the reliance on AI-driven communication tools was associated with a decrease in spontaneity, reflected by a regression coefficient of -0.65. Demographic analysis showed significant variations in AI tool usage across age and gender groups, suggesting that younger users and females are more inclined to utilize these technologies. The findings highlight the dual role of AI in enhancing user engagement while raising concerns about authenticity and social norms. The study concludes that while AI tools can significantly boost interactions, they may also diminish the richness of social connections. Recommendations for promoting authentic communication and diverse self-presentation practices are discussed, alongside the necessity for further research into the long-term effects of AI on social behaviors.

CRITICAL FACTORS INFLUENCING EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AMONG STAKEHOLDERS FOR PROJECT DELIVERY IN JIGAWA STATE

Communication plays an important role in project delivery in terms of relationship, trust and collaboration among internal stakeholders. This research aims to examine the relationship between factors influencing effective communication among stakeholders and construction project delivery with a view of improving communication among stakeholders in construction project delivery in Jigawa State. Questionnaire was used for data collection in Dutse capital of Jigawa state, various factors influencing effective communication among stakeholders are identified from literature review, experts and professionals working in public and private building project in Dutse capital of Jigawa state were selected using a probability sampling technique, a total of one hundred and eight (108) respondents were selected and interviewed using structured questionnaire which represent 90% of response rate. The data are analyzed by descriptive (frequencies and percentage,) and inferential statistics (spear’s man correlation, ANOVA and regression coefficient) are conducted using SPSS 25 version software. The Findings shows that Leadership, trust, communication tools, communication skills, stakeholders involvement, cultural differences and communication technology have strong correlation with successful project delivery and understanding the factors influencing effective communication among stakeholders can foster better collaboration among stakeholders, minimize conflicts and disputes, and can lead to improved project outcomes, reduced delays, and increased customer satisfaction. Leadership, communication skill and communication tools have significant effect on construction project delivery. The factors influencing effective communication among stakeholders would consequently affect the performance of project delivery. These factors can be considered as the critical factors that enhance effective communication among stakeholders for successful project delivery in...

Design and development of an ai-driven communication model for stimulating memory recall in patients with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases

This study presents the development and evaluation of an AI-driven communication tool designed to stimulate memory recall in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The tool integrates machine learning algorithms, including Random Forest and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, with mass communication theories to deliver personalized and adaptive communication strategies. The AI models were trained and tested on patient interaction data, enabling the tool to dynamically adjust its prompts based on real-time cognitive states. Performance metrics such as accuracy, precision, and AUC-ROC were used to assess model efficacy, with the Random Forest model achieving the highest performance across all metrics. Clinical trials demonstrated significant improvements in memory recall and emotional engagement in patients using the AI tool compared to standard cognitive stimulation therapy. Caregivers also reported higher satisfaction with the tool's usability and impact on patient interaction quality. These findings highlight the potential of AI-driven, personalized communication tools to revolutionize Alzheimer's care, offering scalable, adaptive interventions that improve cognitive and emotional health. Academically, this work advances the integration of AI and health communication, emphasizing culturally sensitive and patient-centered approaches. In healthcare, it presents a promising non-pharmacological intervention that can be easily scaled for widespread use, potentially reducing caregiver burden and improving patient outcomes.

The role of interpersonal communication in promoting team morale: a case study of tech startups in Lagos, Nigeria

The study aimed to analyze the role of interpersonal communication in promoting team morale in the workplace. The sample (N =130) was drawn from different levels within the organization and the research technique utilized was a comprehensive survey methodology. The survey explored the crucial outlook of interpersonal communication in the workplace including team morale, employee’s performance, job satisfaction, and leadership style in promoting team morale. The exhaustive purpose of this study was to analyze how interpersonal communication affects team morale and employees performance in the workplace and to recommend other opportunities to improve communication dynamics in the workplace. The research findings revealed that interpersonal communication has a significant positive impact on team morale and employees performance in the workplace. However, impending challenges such as communication tools, initiatives, leadership style, and chain of command barriers pose a threat to communication improvement as well as employees morale in the workplace. This study necessitates organizations to prioritize effective communication training between team leaders and employees in the workplace.

Multimodality of political digital discourse on Twitter social media

As a communication tool, social media has linguistic aspects ranging from letters to discourse, so it is important to be researched from a linguistic scientific point of view to find its meaning. This research aims to identify, elaborate, and analyze digital discourse on Twitter social media related to political elements. This research is based on the multimodal meaning related to communication modes in the form of signs such as writing, images, photos, videos, and other forms that have visual meaning in finding meaning in a communication in twitter posts. The method of this research is qualitative descriptive. The research data is in the form of posts on Twitter accounts that contain political elements. The data analysis technique in this study goes through the reduction and classification stage based on the use of communication modes in digital political discourse. Data collection techniques are carried out by documenting, listening, and taking notes. The results of the research are in the form of identification and explanation of how multimodal has meaning and meaning in digital political discourse on Twitter social media and the contribution of semiotic fashion in the form of writings, images, photos, videos, and other forms that have visual meaning in digital political discourse on Twitter social media as relevance regarding the views of the interests of discourse producers, digital discourse makers with certain semiotic modes to realize discourse, and interests aimed at the creation of political digital discourses such as identity politics, politics of struggle, and power politics.

Co-construction during online learning: cognitive presence through asynchronous video discussion

This study explores cognitive presence (CP) during remote learning by applying content analysis to English language learners’ (ELLs) asynchronous video discussions. The study draws on the framework of Community of Inquiry (CoI) and a four-phase inquiry called the Practical Inquiry Model (PIM). ELLs participated in weekly video discussions over the course of a semester using Flip, a video-based asynchronous computer-mediated communication (ACMC) tool. The data for this study include main reflection videos (N = 137) and peer-response videos (N = 153), and the content analysis provided an understanding to develop deeper learning and co-constructing meaning and knowledge. The findings offer a critical reflection on using asynchronous video discussion for co-constructing knowledge and enhancing social interaction.

Linguistic Accommodation and Identity in The Context of Social Media Discourse

Peaceful coexistence among members of the society is paramount. However, conflicts among the people living together are inevitable and therefore conflict resolution mechanisms must always be put in place. This paper focuses on how language can be used as a tool for resolving and maintaining peace among the individuals in the context of social media. Our society is organised in such a manner that people interact at various levels in the community and there are different forums and platforms that individuals use in the interaction process. During their interactions, language plays a very important role in ensuring that people live in harmony. Living harmoniously may be a concern for people that work together, live in the same neighbourhood, go to church together or live together. These people may interact on face-to-face basis and or use other media such as social media to reach out to one another. This paper narrows down to the kind of interactions that take place in the social media and how the interactants accommodate or cope with each other. The paper analyses texts extracted from Chuka University Students’ social media discourse (from the author’s PhD thesis) to reveal how students accommodate one another. This is an important aspect particularly nowadays when people have made social media an integral tool of communication and interaction. There are different platforms and genres of social media interaction platforms such as Facebook, twitter, Instagram and WhatsApp just to mention a few but this paper focuses on WhatsApp. The WhatsApp groups from which data for analysis were extracted, were those formed by Chuka University students in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. This paper is informed by Communication Accommodation Theory and Social Identity Theory. Since it was a qualitative investigation, a descriptive research design was used. Snowballing was used in the identification of the WhatsApp groups from which the texts were extracted purposively. The texts used in this paper were purposively collected on the basis of their content to show accommodation and identity among the social media users. The content analysis of the texts was done and results discussed. The findings revealed that students accommodate one another in their interactions and that they use language to mark their identity. The accommodation is achieved by using language in a manner that is peculiar to them. They for instance come up with their own jargons, phrases and forms of words that they use in their communication

On the road to HR legitimacy in SMEs: the signalling power of HR metrics

In this study, we examine why and how HR metrics can help increase the legitimacy of the HR function in organizations. Drawing on signalling theory, we conceptualize HR metrics as a communicational tool that signals the value of the HR function’s activities and contributions. We apprehend HR legitimacy through two key concepts: the strength of the HRM system and the underlying philosophies, or raison d’être, attributed to the HR function, namely maximizing business performance and promoting employee well-being. Testing our model among a sample of 218 HR professionals in Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we find that the relationships between HR metrics and HR philosophies are partially mediated by HRM strength. These results suggest that HR professionals can tap into the signalling power of HR metrics to enhance the legitimacy of the HR function by fostering shared perceptions that HR goals, activities, and contributions are valuable and aligned with the interests of both management and employees. This suggests that the use of HR metrics and analytics can help HR functions pursue a pluralist philosophy that seeks to enhance mutuality in employment relationships. This research is among the first to use a quantitative design to capture HR legitimacy.

The Patterns of Digital Deception

Current consumer-protection debates focus on the powerful new data-analysis techniques that have disrupted the balance of power between companies and their customers. Online tracking enables sellers to amass troves of historical data, apply machine-learning tools to construct detailed customer profiles, and target those customers with tailored offers that best suit their interests. It is often a win-win. Sellers avoid pumping dud products and consumers see ads for things they actually want to buy. But the same tools are also used for ill—to target vulnerable members of the population with scams specially tailored to prey on their weaknesses. The result has been a dramatic rise in online fraud that disproportionately impacts those least able to bear the loss. The law’s response has been technology centric. Lawmakers race to identify those technologies that drive consumer deception and target them for regulatory restrictions. But that approach comes at a major cost. General-purpose data analysis and communications tools have both desirable and undesirable uses, and uniform restrictions on their use impede the good along with the bad. A superior approach would focus not on the technological tools of deception but on what this Article identifies as the legal patterns of digital deception: those aspects of digital technology that have outflanked the law’s existing mechanisms for redressing consumer harm. This Article reorients the discussion from the power of new technologies to the shortcomings in existing regulatory structures that have allowed for their abuse. Focus on these patterns of deception will allow regulators to reallocate resources to offset those shortcomings and thereby enhance efforts to combat online fraud without impeding technological innovation.

Development and Implementation of Health Education Tools for Excluded Areas in the Czech Republic

Abstract Background Reducing health inequalities among population groups is imperative, however, health communication strategies tailored to ethnic minorities remain under-researched. To address this issue, various health communication strategies were developed and tested within the 3 year Saste Roma project, focused on improving health literacy and disease prevention in the excluded Czech Roma population. Methods A planning group comprising of doctors, sociologists, psychologists, NGOs and community health workers was established to create tailored health communication tools. The tools were developed with consideration of the sociocultural specifics of the Roma community, using focus groups, in-depth interviews, and the Delphi method. A PR agency was hired to implement the tools. Reach, engagement and Price Per Click = PPC were measured for online tools; feedback on offline tools was collected via surveys and interviews. Results From April 2021 to March 2024, 12 online and offline tools addressing 10 diseases were developed for various age groups and implemented. These tools, such as health literacy brochures and leaflets (78,500 pcs distributed), music videoclips (viewed 150,000 times), a mobile application (with over 500 users), social media profiles dedicated to health (with 140 followers), preventative events, school-based e-learning modules (implemented in 86 elementary schools in excluded areas), online campaigns (reaching 556,337 people; PPC of 0.85 EUR in case of in-house campaign Vs. PPC of 3.21 EUR by PR agency) or poster campaigns (engaging 3,046 individuals) focusing on excluded areas. Lessons This project represents the first extensive use of diverse communication tools targeting the Roma population. The involvement of community representatives (patients, artists, actors, and residents) in tool development is crucial. Training and support for health community workers are essential to achieve effective engagement with the community. Key messages • Tools must be delivered in a culturally sensitive and comprehensible manner by members of the communities. • Commercial PR agencies failed with this specific campaign. Cooperation with Roma artists and influencers is essential.

Mechanisms of inducing cancer extracellular vesicles secretion and transfer for cancer malignancy

Assistant Professor Nao Nishida-Aoki, Waseda Institute for Advanced Study (WIAS), is investigating the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in physiological tumour tissue environments in order to improve cancer treatments. Communication tools like EVs are used by cancer cells to educate the surrounding cells and make them supportive to cancer cell growth and metastasis. Nishida-Aoki’s research focuses on understanding EV-mediated communication within the complex tissue environment of patient tumours, where they are secreted in densely packed cells and non-cellular components forming a 3D structure. She has developed ex vivo brain and lung metastatic models using organotypic tissue slice culture (TSC). This enables her to observe EV transfer within tissue architecture in real time, identify target cells affected by cancer EVs and determine how they are distributed. Nishida-Aoki is also exploring the mechanisms of inducible secretion of cancer extracellular vesicles upon cell recognition and contribution to cancer malignancy. Her research is investigating the molecular mechanics by which cancer cells regulate and the extent of interactions with neighbouring cells using EVs at metastatic initiation. She has hypothesised that cancer cells should increase communication frequency using EVs when they meet other types of cells in a new environment to benefit themselves. By elucidating the molecular basis of cancer-normal cell interactions mediated by EVs, Nishida-Aoki aims to develop novel cancer therapeutic strategies.

KardioNet Digital - a structured care model involving digital tools for intersectoral communication and a patient-focused strategy for treatment of heart failure

Abstract Introduction Inefficiencies and discontinuities in care at the interfaces within Germany's healthcare system, especially between acute and outpatient care, present significant challenges in managing patients with heart failure (HF). The management complexity of HF has increased with the advent of new digital tools, though patient acceptance of these tools remains contentious. The prevention of loss of diagnostic and therapeutic information for this complex disease is crucial for cross-sectoral communication (hospital - office-based cardiologist - general practitioner) and quality of care. Purpose Our goal was to examine the impact of digital app-supported coordination of HF management across different healthcare providers from hospital discharge to the ambulatory sector and to assess patients' acceptance of a structured care program. A patient-focused digital strategy, supported by a Heart Failure Nurse (HFN), aimed to facilitate structured follow-up and patient empowerment, focusing on patient-reported outcomes and experiences (refer to Table 1). Results Out of 401 patients screened during their hospital stay for HF, only 57 (14.9% male, 12.6% female) participated in the KardioNet Digital (KND) program. NYHA classifications were I (3.5%), II (49.1%), III (40.4%), and IV (7.1%); Diagnoses included CMP (26, 45.6%), CAD (19, 33.3%), valvular HF (8, 14.0%), and others (4, 7.0%). The mean age was 55.03 years, with a notable difference in participation based on age (≥70 years: 9.5% male, 33.3% female; <70 years: 90.5% male, 66.7% female). Age was a significant determinant of program participation. Patients who regularly used the app benefited from several features: A total of 35 alerts (17 patients) were triggered for reasons such as bodyweight increase (2kg or more) and device-induced alerts (i.e. false shock delivery, 3x slow-VT, Syncope), leading the HFN to contact the patients. This early intervention prevented rehospitalization due to decompensation of heart failure in 11 patients (64.7%) and addressed device-related alarms for organizing an emergency hospital visit by HFN. Despite substantial incentives, such as support from an HFN and expedited appointments with specialists for follow-up therapy, refusal rates were high (refer to Table 2). Conclusion A structured, digitally supported cross-sectoral care model for heart failure patients can potentially improve care coordination and outcomes. However, the success of such programs critically depends on patient willingness and the seamless integration into existing healthcare structures. Despite valuable incentives, we observed low acceptance of the program. Even among motivated participants (14.1%), there is a significant need for substantial support and education on digital literacy for the widespread implementation of digital tools in real-world settings for the treatment of heart failure.Workflow of structured digital supportReasons for Declining Participation

Cognitive Analysis of Euphemisms in The Big Bang Theory under CBT

This research delves into the pragmatic function of euphemisms in the context of the American sitcom The Big Bang Theory, utilizing Conceptual Blending Theory (CBT) as the analytical framework. The purpose is to understand how euphemisms, as a form of polite language, are constructed to avoid direct and potentially offensive expressions, thus promoting social harmony. The methodology involves a detailed analysis of euphemistic language within the sitcom, focusing on the integration of mental spaces as proposed by CBT. The study identifies key euphemisms and constructs a conceptual integration network for each, revealing the input spaces, generic space, and the blended space that emerges, offering new meanings. The main results demonstrate that euphemisms are cognitively processed through the blending of spaces, where elements from different domains combine to form a less confrontational meaning. The conclusion underscores the efficacy of CBT in explaining the complexity of euphemistic language, showcasing its role in navigating social norms and cultural sensitivities. This research provides insights into American cultural nuances and the strategic use of language in social interactions, enhancing the understanding of euphemisms as a cross-cultural communication tool.

Improving family engagement during implementation of IEP-aided AAC services: an interdisciplinary US-based perspective

All IEP team members should find statements pointing to where and when the aided AAC system and accessible learning tools will be used. Classroom-based and research supported AAC learning strategies and teaching practices should be clearly listed, explained, and accessible to all team members. Aided AAC refers to a variety of communication tools that are portable and external to the body. Aided AAC ranges from paper-based picture communication cards, boards, binders, tablets, or digital smartphone applications to multifunctional/high-tech devices offering synthesized and digitized speech. Aided AAC allows students with CCN/ESNs to access speech or writing using any body part capable of performing voluntary and independent movement. Many electronic/high-tech aided AAC systems can store thousands of multilingual words, allowing seamless communication between home and school. Students with CCN/ESNs can also use hightech aided AAC with native keyboards as “alternative pencils” to practice spelling and early writing, thus allowing equitable academic access and opportunities to make progress on emergent literacy skills. High-tech/digital-aided AAC allows for the maturation of linguistic specificity and fuller participation in daily routines required for academic success. It is critical for students with CCN/ESNs to use high-tech aided AAC with ample vocabulary storage to increase opportunities for self-generation of complex and decontextualized messages for varied social interactions. Additionally, digital device platforms (e.g., iPads, other tablets, Smartphones) offer multiple.

Workshops: Enhancing communication for nursing students with patients with hearing disabilities

Abstract Background Nursing students need guidance on effective communication strategies for interacting with patients with hearing disabilities, emphasizing the importance of addressing this gap in their education as future healthcare professionals. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among nursing students at seven institutions before and after workshops led by guides with hearing disabilities from a non-profit organization Ma’agalei Shema and funded by the National Insurance Institute. Data was collected from 2023 to March 2024 and analyzed using SPSS software. Results 279 participants completed the survey before the workshops. and 136 responding afterward. Almost 80% were female. Before the workshops, 68.46% of students expected to gain communication tools for patients with hearing disabilities. About one-third believed the healthcare system offers accessible treatment to these patients, while only 22.22% foresaw no barriers. One-third reported no clinical contact with such patients. Among those who did, lip-reading (25.53%), writing (17.73%), assistance from family members (15.6%), and sign language (9.22%) were commonly used. Only 2.84% used professional sign language interpreters, and 20.57% reported never meeting a patient with hearing disabilities (8% reported “other”). Post-workshop surveys showed that around 82.48% of participants felt the workshops would significantly enhance their communication skills with such patients, with only 5.11% reporting a lack of practical tools received. Conclusions Practical workshops can significantly enhance communication skills and improve patient care. This study underscores the potential impact of minor adjustments in communication strategies on patient care, such as increasing the use of professional interpreters. Main messages: Providing training to nursing students in effective communication with these patients can streamline interactions, diminish reliance on family intermediaries, and enhance medical care. Key messages • Nursing students need guidance on communicating with patients with hearing disabilities to improve future healthcare interactions. • Practical workshops enhance communication skills, stressing the importance of minor adjustments for better patient care.

Forecasting cognitive functioning: an artificial intelligence approach with Dynamic Bayesian Networks

Abstract Background Several potentially modifiable risk factors are associated with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). However, developmental patterns of these risk factors have not been used before to forecast later SCD. Practical tools for the prevention of cognitive decline are needed. We examined multifactorial trajectories of risk factors, and their associations with SCD using an artificial intelligence approach to build a score that forecasts later SCD. Methods Five repeated surveys (2000-2022) of the Helsinki Health Study (n = 8960, 79% women, aged 40-60 at Phase 1) were used to build dynamic Bayesian networks (DBN) for estimating the odds of SCD. A score-based approach was implemented for learning DBN using the quotient normalized maximum likelihood criterion. The model was used to predict SCD based on the history of consumption of fruit and vegetables, smoking, alcohol consumption, leisure-time physical activity, body mass index, and insomnia symptoms, adjusting for sociodemographic covariates. Results Of the participants, 31-48% reported decline in memory, learning, and concentration in 2022. Physical activity was the strongest predictor of SCD in a 5-year interval, with an odds ratio of 0.76 (95% Bayesian credible interval 0.59-0.99) for physically active compared to inactive participants. Alcohol consumption showed a U-shaped relationship with SCD. Other risk factors had minor effects. Conclusions A new online risk score tool was developed that enables individuals to inspect their own risk profiles, as well as explore potential targets for interventions and their estimated contributions to later SCD. Dynamic decision heatmap was presented as a communication tool to be used at healthcare consultations. Key messages • Potentially modifiable health-related behaviours such as physical activity can contribute to subjective cognitive decline. • Artificial intelligence can be applied to discover the complex interactions between risk factors and subjective cognitive decline, to support preventive healthcare at individual and population levels.

Cathedrals as Instruments of Influence on Public Consciousness in Medieval Western Europe (10th-16th Centuries)

This study explores the functional impact of Christian cathedrals in Western Europe on medieval public consciousness. Utilizing a systemic analysis method and a values-based approach, cathedrals are examined as structural elements within the framework of religious communication, serving as key instruments for shaping public consciousness during the Middle Ages. Through these edifices, the core tenets of Christianity were disseminated to the masses. Special attention is given to the art of stone calendars, which are considered a significant factor in the formation of a Christian worldview during this period. The study identifies the value-laden, symbolic, and functional characteristics of medieval cathedrals as tools of religious communication. It outlines the overarching principles of architectural organization in Catholic churches in relation to their roles in influencing public consciousness. The influence of Romanesque cathedrals on the trajectory of public consciousness in medieval Western Europe is also examined. The author concludes that Christian cathedrals, as instruments of influence on medieval public conscious-ness, possessed a pronounced managerial and motivational effect, fulfilling a wide range of sociocultural functions that contributed to the stabilization and spiritual-moral development of medieval Western European society.

Machine Learning and IoT-Based Solutions in Industrial Applications for Smart Manufacturing: A Critical Review

The Internet of Things (IoT) has radically changed the industrial world, enabling the integration of numerous systems and devices into the industrial ecosystem. There are many areas of the manufacturing industry in which IoT has contributed, including plants’ remote monitoring and control, energy efficiency, more efficient resources management, and cost reduction, paving the way for smart manufacturing in the framework of Industry 4.0. This review article provides an up-to-date overview of IoT systems and machine learning (ML) algorithms applied to smart manufacturing (SM), analyzing four main application fields: security, predictive maintenance, process control, and additive manufacturing. In addition, the paper presents a descriptive and comparative overview of ML algorithms mainly used in smart manufacturing. Furthermore, for each discussed topic, a deep comparative analysis of the recent IoT solutions reported in the scientific literature is introduced, dwelling on the architectural aspects, sensing solutions, implemented data analysis strategies, communication tools, performance, and other characteristic parameters. This comparison highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each discussed solution. Finally, the presented work outlines the features and functionalities of future IoT-based systems for smart industry applications.