Direct Communication Research Articles

Performance analysis of UAV-enabled dual-hop mixed RF-FSO communication systems with user scheduling

Abstract Using UAVs as relays in wireless communication offers several advantages like flexibility, coverage, line-of-sight communication, cost effectiveness, adaptability to changing network demands, etc. UAVs can perform surveillance, delivery, mapping, and disaster response. They offer real-time data collection, high maneuverability, and access to remote areas. In this manuscript, we consider a UAV-enabled dual hop mixed RF/FSO wireless communication system. The system includes a UAV acting as a decode-and-forward relay, facilitating communication from the base station (B) to multiple mobile users. The opportunistic scheduling scheme is used to select the user with the best instantaneous channel conditions, typically based on the highest signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or lowest outage probability, to maximize throughput and ensure more reliable communication. The first hop from B to the UAV relay R, employs a free space optics (FSO) link modeled with gamma–gamma fading. The second hop, from R to multiple users, is a radio frequency (RF) link modeled with Rayleigh fading. The direct communication between base station and mobile users is not possible due to the blockage by various natural and man-made obstacles. We analyze the outage probability at high SNR values to gain further insights into system performance. Additionally, closed-form analytical expressions for the outage probability and average bit error rate (ABER) of the proposed system are derived.

DINAMIKA STRATEGI KOMUNIKASI POLITIK DALAM MEMBANGUN KESADARAN PUBLIK STUDI PADA KAMPANYE PILKADA DAN PILGUB 2024 DI KOTA MATARAM

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of political communication strategies used in the 2024 local elections (Pilkada) and gubernatorial elections (Pilgub) in Mataram City, as well as to explore the enthusiasm of millennials and Generation Z in following local political developments. The study employs a descriptive survey method, collecting data through questionnaires distributed to 400 samples drawn from a 500,000 population using the Slovin formula. The findings reveal that incumbent candidates are more effective in using social media to reach young audiences, while direct communication is more successful within conservative and rural communities. Millennials and Generation Z show high enthusiasm, especially in social media campaigns, although there remains a gap in understanding campaign programs, particularly among rural populations. This study recommends simplifying campaign messages and increasing youth participation in political campaigns

Brain-Computer Interface Application in Recognition and Regulation of Emotion

This paper investigates the application of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology in the realms of emotion recognition and regulation. BCI technology facilitates direct communication between the brain and external devices, offering significant promise for improving human-environment interactions, particularly with regard to the identification and modulation of emotional states. By analyzing brain signals, such as electroencephalography, this study classifies emotions based on widely recognized models, including Ekmans model and the Russell circumplex model. To enhance the precision of emotion classification, machine learning algorithms, such as support vector machines and neural networks, are utilized. Moreover, this study explores BCIs potential in emotion regulation, focusing on neurofeedback and brain stimulation methods like transcranial direct current stimulation, which have shown therapeutic potential, particularly for disorders related to emotional dysregulation. Additionally, the paper delves into the integration of BCI with virtual reality to create immersive environments conducive to emotional therapy. Despite its considerable potential, BCI technology faces obstacles such as low data transmission rates and the complexities associated with user training. Nonetheless, the integration of BCI technology within Industry 4.0 frameworks holds promising opportunities for optimizing human-machine interactions and improving workplace safety.

Outage Probability Analysis and Altitude Optimization of a UAV-Enabled Triple-Hop Mixed RF-FSO-Based Wireless Communication System

In this paper, we present the evaluation of network parameters for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-enabled triple-hop mixed RF/FSO-based wireless communication system, where one relay is a fixed relay and the second relay is a UAV which acts as decode-and-forward relay for communication from the base station (B) to the multiple mobile users (Mi), i∈{1,2⋯N}. The first hop from B to fixed relay (R1) is the radio frequency (RF) link modeled using α−κ−μ fading distribution, the second hop from the relay R1 to the UAV relay (R2) is a free space optics (FSO) link modeled using Gamma-Gamma fading, and the third hop from R2 to the Mi is, again, an RF link modeled using the Rayleigh fading model. The direct communication between the B and the Mi is not feasible due to the very large distance. We derive the closed form analytical expression for the outage probability of the proposed system and find the effect of the base system parameters on the performance of the system. We also analyze the outage probability of the system at high SNR values to get further insights of the system performance. In addition, altitude optimization of UAV is carried out to know the optimal elevation angle in correspondence with UAV’s optimal altitude in order to maximize performance of the system.

A visually-induced optogenetically-engineered system enables autonomous glucose homeostasis in mice.

With the global population increasing and the demographic shifting toward an aging society, the number of patients diagnosed with conditions such as peripheral neuropathies resulting from diabetes is expected to rise significantly. This growing health burden has emphasized the need for innovative solutions, such as brain-computer interfaces. brain-computer interfaces, a multidisciplinary field that integrates neuroscience, engineering, and computer science, enable direct communication between the human brain and external devices. In this study, we developed an autonomous diabetes therapeutic system that employs visually-induced electroencephalography devices to capture and decode event-related potentials using machine learning techniques. We present the visually-induced optogenetically-engineered system for therapeutic expression regulation (VISITER), which generates diverse output commands to control illumination durations. This system regulates insulin expression through optogenetically-engineered cells, achieving blood glucose homeostasis in mice. Our results demonstrate that VISITER effectively and precisely modulates therapeutic protein expression in mammalian cells, facilitating the rapid restoration of blood glucose homeostasis in diabetic mice. These findings underscore the potential for diabetic patients to manage insulin levels autonomously by focusing on target images, paving the way for a more self-directed approach to blood glucose control.

B-UMCS: Blockchain-enabled Unified Medical Consultancy Service.

The advent of blockchain technology within the healthcare domain has signified a paradigm shift, transitioning from an emerging trend to an essential infrastructure component that ensures decentralization, transparency, integrity, and persistent availability. Despite its potential, the healthcare sector has not fully capitalized on the vast array of benefits blockchain technology offers. Most existing works utilized blockchain technology within a specific healthcare entity's services but not among several healthcare organizations. They notably lack the provision for direct communication and knowledge transfer between doctors from different hospitals. Therefore, this paper introduces a pioneering Blockchain-based Unified Medical Consultancy Service (B-UMCS) that leverages blockchain's robustness to revolutionize telehealth services by (a) alleviating the shortage of medical expertise through facilitating the interconnection of physicians from diverse hospitals and geographical areas onto a consolidated platform, (b) promoting the seamless sharing of medical consultations, electronic health records (EHRs), and expert insights while upholding rigorous security and privacy protocols, (c) integrating the inherent security mechanisms of blockchain with the distributed data storage functionality offered by the Interplanetary File System (IPFS). This work details the B-UMCS's components, interactions, smart contracts, protocols, algorithms, storage and transmission of EHRs, and their corresponding implementations. The evaluations of the proposed B-UMCS reveal that it secures and facilitates the sharing of EHRs and enables healthcare professionals to collaborate and exchange expertise seamlessly across institutional boundaries. They are additionally ensuring that healthcare providers can offer their knowledge in an efficient and scalable manner. Overall, B-UMCS not only addresses the current challenges in healthcare data security and accessibility but also opens new avenues for collaboration and knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals, ultimately contributing to improving patient care quality.

Establishing a telemedical supported trans-sectoral collaboration network from community support to emergency care for outpatient care recipients: study protocol of a prospective non-randomized complex intervention study with a pragmatic approach, Stay@Home – Treat@Home

BackgroundDemographic changes in Germany are increasing the number of outpatient care recipients, who often resort to emergency care due to difficulties accessing timely outpatient medical care. Previous studies suggest that early detection and telemedical interventions could reduce unnecessary hospitalizations. The new form of healthcare aims to provide continuous, flexible healthcare for outpatient care recipients using digital technologies to detect health deteriorations and facilitate interventions at home. The goal of our study is to evaluate, whether the number of emergency situations and hospital stays will be reduced, and health outcomes will be improved compared to standard care.MethodsIn this prospective non-randomized complex intervention study with a pragmatic approach, we aim to evaluate a new form of healthcare focused on establishing an interdisciplinary network for outpatient care in the homes of care-dependent individuals. Utilizing a digital interactive health diary, health data will be gathered from participants, caregivers, and healthcare providers, covering both stable primary care and acute situations. A telemedical network will coordinate measures, including non-medical aid, nursing care, and medical assistance. A total of 1,500 participants will be recruited for the intervention group, matched with a control group from health insurance data. A second control group with n=300 will provide self-reported measures. The study is planned to span eight quarters, with data collected from the digital interactive health diary and health insurance records. Evaluation perspectives include health insurance, patients, and healthcare providers, assessing utilization and costs compared to standard care, health status, health-related quality of life, care dependency, interdisciplinary cooperation, and usability of the new technology.DiscussionDemographic change results in a larger older people population, exacerbating mobility issues and care dependency, worsened by the shortage of medical personnel. Stay@Home – Treat@Home aims to enable home health monitoring and care, reducing hospitalizations. The digital interactive health diary supports direct communication, allows remote monitoring, and empowers patients and caregivers to manage health changes. Nursing aid personnel and physicians can access entries for informed interventions. The development of the digital interactive health diary aims to improve the situation of care-dependent individuals. Evaluating its effectiveness and efficiency is crucial for the development and implementation of new technologies.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register, ID: DRKS00034260, registered on May 14, 2024 (retrospectively registered): https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00034260 and https://who.int/clinical-trials-registry-platform/network/who-data-set.

Development of a STEM-based digital learning space platform to enhance students’ mathematical creativity in future learning classrooms

This study focuses on developing a web-based digital learning space (DLS) designed to support a STEM learning model that fosters students’ mathematical creativity. The DLS builds upon traditional learning management systems by introducing customizable elements tailored to individual teaching and learning environments (PTEs and PLEs). These features allow for the formation of diverse learning networks within the DLS. This enhanced version integrates frameworks for STEM learning, engaging activities, instructional videos, quizzes, evaluations, feedback tools, and a chat feature for direct communication with instructors. The research and development process employed a 4D model–define, design, develop, and disseminate–and involved validation from content and media experts, confirming the DLS’s reliability for broader testing. Results indicate that the STEM-based DLS is highly suitable for mathematics education, as shown by validation from experts, practicality tests from users, and effectiveness tests that measured students’ mathematical creativity. This study also found moderate improvement in students’ creative mathematical thinking (Ng = 0.554) within classrooms using the STEM-based DLS, highlighting its effectiveness for enhancing these skills. Thus, this STEM-focused DLS offers a mobile-friendly digital environment that effectively promotes students’ mathematical creativity.

Implementation of a Web-Based Master-Slave Architecture for Greenhouse Monitoring Systems in Grape Cultivation

The Internet of Things (IoT) technology enables electronic devices to connect to the Internet for real-time data collection and analysis. In greenhouses, IoT is used to monitor soil moisture and environmental conditions to support grape plant care. This study proposes a grape plant monitoring system using a master-slave architecture and the ESP-NOW protocol to reduce reliance on Wi-Fi networks, thus minimizing delay and packet loss. The system leverages direct communication between master and slave nodes. Testing results show an average delay of 1,546.65 ms, jitter of 120.56 ms, and packet loss of only 0.07% from 88,815 data transmissions in one day. Despite variations in packet loss due to power interruptions, the system consistently demonstrates reliable data transmission. Overall, this system proves to be reliable for real-time monitoring in greenhouses, offering stable performance and high data accuracy.

On interpreters: the ethics of interpreter use in general practice

In the absence of language congruency between patient and general practitioner (GP), the use of an interpreter is essential for a safe and effective clinical consultation. A substantial proportion of...

High-fidelity digital-analog hybrid RoF fronthaul link enabled by nonlinear radio signal shaping.

We propose a simple and effective method to enhance the fidelity of radio signals in a digital-analog radio-over-fiber (DA-RoF) system by introducing nonlinearity into the transmitted signal. This nonlinearity is introduced via an arctangent function for radio signal shaping (RSS), while the corresponding tangent function is used for signal recovery. Nonlinear shaping spreads near-zero amplitude signals and compresses far-from-zero ones. After nonlinear recovery, noise in near-zero signals is suppressed, while noise in far-from-zero signals is amplified. Since the radio signal follows a Gaussian distribution, with most amplitudes near zero, the overall SNR is improved. In our experiments, we demonstrate the proposed radio signal shaping technology using a DA-RoF system based on intensity modulation with a direct detection communication system, achieving a 1.8-dB SNR gain. We achieve an SNR of 34.17 dB for QAM-1024 signals at a DA-RoF symbol rate of 104 Gbaud over 1 km of fiber. This corresponds to a CPRI-equivalent rate of 1560 Gbps and an equivalent fronthaul channel capacity of 294.85 Gbps. Our proposed scheme offers a promising solution for high-fidelity, high-capacity RoF links in Beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G networks.

دور الاتصال في إدارة الأزمات في شركة أرامكو السعودية

This study addresses the role of communication in crisis management in the field of public relations at Saudi Aramco, highlighting the importance of effective communication as a strategic tool in enhancing the ability of institutions to deal with crises. It aims to understand how communication affects institutional performance, especially in light of the difficult circumstances that institutions may face during crises. The study used a descriptive methodology to collect data, focusing on how to use different means of communication, including social media platforms, to enhance internal and external communication. The role of public relations in building trust with the public was also reviewed, which contributes to improving the institution's reputation during crises. The results show that good planning for communication means is an essential element in crisis management, as it requires clearly defining responsibilities for each individual in the team, and providing the necessary information to all concerned parties. In addition, the study concluded that continuous training for the crisis management team is necessary to develop their skills in dealing with crises effectively. The study recommended the need to enhance the use of social media platforms as a tool for immediate communication with the public, which helps in enhancing and developing mechanisms for direct communication with the public in all its spectrums and the optimal continuation of improvement and development processes for the operations and services provided by the company, which contributes to maintaining the positive and distinctive mental image enjoyed by the company. In conclusion, the study emphasizes that effective communication is a vital element in crisis management, and institutions must invest in developing integrated communication strategies to ensure their rapid and effective response to challenges.

Successful transcatheter treatment of large right pulmonary artery to left atrial fistula: a case series and literature review

IntroductionCyanotic congenital heart diseases are among the most serious anomalies among newborns. A rare type of this condition is direct communication between the right pulmonary artery and left atrium, which presents mostly in adolescence and adulthood. Large shunts, however, should be corrected as soon as possible, considering their potential to cause congestive heart failure.Case PresentationTwo 2- and 13-year-old patients with this pathologic communication complained of exertional dyspnea and central cyanosis. Their physical exams were prominent, with a low oxygen saturation level. The diagnostic modalities used, electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, echocardiogram, CT scan, and selective angiography of the pulmonary arteries, showed right-to-left abnormal blood flow through the right pulmonary artery and left atrium shunt. Finally, both patients were treated successfully by a transcatheter occluder without any complications or follow-up complaints.DiscussionThe right pulmonary artery and left atrium abnormal congenital connections are rare causes of central cyanosis, mostly present with exertional dyspnea and cyanosis during adolescence or early adulthood. Transthoracic echocardiography, contrast-enhanced CT scans, and angiography of the pulmonary arteries make the diagnosis. The treatment has emerged during the last two decades, shifting from surgical treatment for severe cases to interventional percutaneous strategies, leaving the surgery for cases with no appropriate location for the application of interventional therapy.ConclusionConsidering the potentially life-threatening complications of the untreated right pulmonary artery and left atrium fistulas, such as thromboembolic events, early diagnosis is crucial. However, treating these patients is not always straightforward, and strategies should be selected based on the connecting fistula’s anatomical features, location, size, and tortuosity. Although endovascular treatment is the preferred option, some patients need to be treated with surgical procedures due to their structural characteristics.

High-order direct modulation terahertz communications with a wideband time-coding metachip modulator.

Terahertz communication technology based on on-off keying (OOK) direct modulation is vital for sixth-generation communication systems, especially in short-distance and high-rate applications. However, low-order OOK modulation often leads to suboptimal anti-interference capabilities and a heightened demodulation threshold. Here, we propose a high-order direct modulation terahertz communication framework using a wideband time-coding metachip modulator. The modulator leverages the electromagnetic resonance properties within the metaunit structure, with control enabled by gallium arsenide Schottky diodes. By manipulating the timing of voltage pulses applied to these diodes, the equivalent electromagnetic resonance distributions can be precisely regulated in the time domain. This enables independent and accurate control over the amplitude and phase of terahertz harmonics. Leveraging this technique, three high-order modulation schemes-quadrature phase-shift keying, 16-phase-shift keying, and 16-quadrature amplitude modulation- are achieved in a direct modulation and direct detection system, demonstrating the real-time image transmission. The proposed method offers an important way to develop integrated and low-complexity terahertz wireless communication systems.

Exploring the Role of Symbolic Convergence Theory in Enhancing Group Cohesiveness and Decision Making: A Systematic Literature Review Study

Symbolic Convergence Theory describes group cohesiveness and decision-making influenced by symbolic convergence and rhetorical vision because they affect how group members understand and share common social values. This research aims to provide an overview of the implementation of Symbolic Convergence Theory in group communication, especially in cohesiveness and group decision-making. This research uses the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method. This research systematically identifies and evaluates group cohesiveness and decision-making in several previous studies. However, along with the development of time and technology, direct and analog communication began to be less researched. Keywords: Symbolic Convergence Theory, group, cohesiveness, decision-making

Enhancing Accessibility through Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) in Assistive Technology

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) have revolutionized assistive technology, offering transformative solutions to enhance accessibility for individuals with physical and neurological disabilities. By enabling direct communication between the brain and external devices, BCIs bypass traditional pathways, empowering users to control assistive tools through neural activity. This research explores the integration of BCIs into assistive technology, focusing on their potential to improve mobility, communication, and independence. It examines cutting-edge applications such as neural-controlled prosthetics, speech-generating devices, and smart home systems tailored for accessibility. The study also addresses challenges including signal processing accuracy, user adaptability, and ethical considerations surrounding data privacy and inclusivity. By analyzing advancements in machine learning algorithms and neurofeedback systems, the research provides insights into optimizing BCI functionality for practical deployment. Ultimately, this study highlights the role of BCIs in creating a more inclusive society by redefining the capabilities of assistive technologies.

Community Nursing: A Time and Motion Study of Community Nurses' Work and Workload

ABSTRACTAimTo explore activities performed by community nurses in community health centre clinics and during home visits.DesignCross‐sectional, observational using time and motion technique. Data collected during lockdown in 2020.MethodsCommunity nurses' work in clinics and during home visits were observed and recorded. The purposefully designed data collection tool covered six categories (Administration, Communication, Direct care, Documentation, Indirect care and Other) and 35 activities relative to community nurses' work.ResultsEight hundred and ten complete timings were obtained. Community nurses' time was most often (86.5%) spent on Direct care, Communication, Documentation and Other activities. Patient education occurred more often in the home.ConclusionsThe type, frequency and time taken to complete community nursing activities provides insight into the community nurse role. Addressing inefficient practices such as documentation and travel could serve to improve workload.Reporting MethodAdheres to EQUATOR guideline STROBE for cross‐sectional studies.Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.

دور العلاقات العامة في تشكيل الصورة الذهنية لموظفي القطاع البلدي بالمنطقة الشرقية

The study showed that effective public relations activities, including media campaigns and direct communication with employees, contribute significantly to improving the mental image of the municipal sector. These activities play a major role in enhancing employees’ confidence in their management and raising their level of job satisfaction. The study also found that continuous and comprehensive internal communication increases employee satisfaction and enhances their sense of belonging. Public relations contribute to achieving alignment between management goals and employee aspirations, which helps achieve a stable and supportive work environment. The results indicated that transparency in communication processes between management and employees is one of the essential elements for building a positive and reliable relationship. This transparency contributes to reducing rumors and misunderstandings, which increases positive interaction between management and employees and enhances their impressions of the institution. The study also highlighted the effectiveness of modern technical tools in enhancing internal communication, as the use of these tools contributes to facilitating the exchange of information and clarifying procedures, which leads to improving the effectiveness of communication and enhancing the positive mental image of the municipal sector. The study stressed the importance of adopting sustainable public relations strategies aimed at continuous and constructive communication with employees, to support the long-term goals of the sector. She recommended the need to focus public relations efforts on transparency, continuous communication and the use of modern technologies, which contributes to creating a positive work environment and enhances job satisfaction and belonging among employees, thus achieving a positive and supportive mental image of the municipal sector in the Eastern Region.

QOL-13. FROM SURVIVING TO THRIVING WITH A BRAIN TUMOR: THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO NEUROONCOLOGY MODEL FOR AN EMPOWERED AND ENGAGED PEER VOLUNTEER SUPPORT COMMUNITY

Abstract BACKGROUND Brain tumor patients often experience feelings of isolation, identity loss, and existential distress, and peer support can have a positive impact in these areas. Providing peer support, however, can be emotionally demanding and presents unique challenges for neuro-oncology patient volunteers, with little guidance available to address these issues. We describe an innovative program that supports volunteers and provides a roadmap for implementing peer volunteer programs in clinical neuro-oncology practices. METHODS In 2020, the UCSF Sheri Sobrato Brain Cancer Survivorship Program established an initiative to match brain tumor patients seeking support with trained patient volunteers. To address potential challenges, an optional, ongoing support community for volunteers was created by a health coach educator, with co-facilitation from a rehabilitation neuropsychologist and a social worker. The weekly meetings included supplemental training, personal check-ins, and group discussions. Volunteer feedback was collected through direct volunteer communication with the facilitator and an annual online survey. RESULTS From August 2020 through October 2023, 46 peer volunteers were trained in six cohorts. There were 116 patients requesting peer support. In total 132 volunteer-patient matches were made for an average of 2.87 matches per volunteer. Seventy percent of volunteers attended 11 or more meetings/year. Average attendance was 12 volunteers per meeting. All respondents to the annual online survey (n=31) reported a high level of satisfaction with the program. Volunteers highlighted benefits such as mutual support, impactful contributions, and personal growth and empowerment. Volunteers who reported higher levels of preparedness attended >11 meetings per year. DISCUSSION In our experience, patient peer volunteer programs show promise in reducing isolation and restoring purpose. This unique 3-year pilot suggests that ongoing group support and training is a plausible and effective way to enhance a peer volunteer program. Future efforts will focus on developing a structured curriculum for neuro-oncology patient peer volunteers.

Підходи до вивчення громадської думки в СРСР 1920-х –1930-х рр.

The measurement of public opinion has become an essential practice across various fields, evolving from historical methods to modern polling techniques. Politicians have long tried to understand public sentiment through tools like media analysis and direct communication. In democratic societies, this understanding helps with electoral success, while in totalitarian regimes, it often serves to maintain control through surveillance and other strategies. The article underscores the challenges scholars face in reconstructing public sentiment in oppressive environments where reliable data is scarce. Historians often depend on alternative sources, such as secret police reports, media publications, and personal accounts, to build a nuanced understanding of public opinion. Our overview has identified various approaches to studying public opinion in the USSR during the interwar period. Some studies focus on representing a range of reactions that ordinary people have to newly introduced state policies and everyday problems. Other scholars highlight complex social dynamics (active and passive resistance, adaptation, apathy, etc.) Moreover, a number of public opinion studies are devoted to the collective identity of different social groups and how it changed under the influence of Soviet propaganda and social engineering. At the same time, some researchers who heavily relied on personal accounts reconstructed people’s emotional states under the pressure of totalitarianism. Overall, exploring public sentiment in oppressive environments allows for a deeper understanding of the nature of totalitarianism and the social resistance under such regimes. Keywords: public opinion, popular opinion, public sentiments, behavior, resistance, USSR, Holodomor.