Instant Messaging Research Articles

Cyber dating abuse perpetration and victimization among Chinese college students with a history of peer phubbing: psychological resilience moderates the indirect effect of rejection sensitivity

BackgroundAs emerging adults are increasingly reliant on instant messaging applications for communication with romantic partners, cyber dating abuse perpetration (CDAP) and victimization (CDAV) have proliferated. This has aroused the high attention of researchers. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of the influence of peer phubbing on CDAP and CDAV in Chinese context.Methods566 Chinese college students (average age of 19.31 years, 47.7% females) were investigated with the generic scale of being phubbed, rejection sensitivity questionnaire, Chinese version of resilience scale and cyber dating abuse questionnaire. The data were analyzed by using a moderated mediation model with SPSS and the PROCESS.ResultsThe results revealed that: (1) peer phubbing had a significant positive predictive effect on CDAP (β = .32, p < .001) and CDAV (β = .43, p < .001) respectively. (2) Rejection sensitivity played a partial mediating role both between peer phubbing and CDAP (indirect effect = .12, 95% CI = [.05, .18], accounting for 37.5%) and CDAV (indirect effect = .09, 95% CI = [.05, .14], accounting for 20.9%. (3) The first half (β = − .27, p < .001) of the indirect effect of peer phubbing on CDAP and CDAV are weakened by psychological resilience, and the direct paths were also weakened by psychological resilience(β = − .13, p < .001;β = − .16, p < .001).ConclusionThese findings highlight the importance of discerning the mechanisms moderating the mediated paths linking peer phubbing to CDAP and CDAV. The results also underline the importance of implementing measures and interventions to use the protective role of psychological resilience on college students’ CDAP and CDAV.

Effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing and cross platform messaging application in improving oral health knowledge, attitude and behaviours among pregnant women- A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Body goes through significant hormonal and physiological changes during pregnancy, which could be linked to changes in oral health. Many women are unaware of the negative consequences of poor dental health during and after pregnancy, both for themselves and their children. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and cross platform messaging application (WhatsApp messenger) for oral health education on the oral health knowledge, attitude and behaviours among pregnant women attending ante natal care. A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 84 pregnant women. Simple random sampling was employed to select participants after oral examination. Participants were randomly allocated to two groups (Group 1: Cross-platform messaging application [WhatsApp]; Group 2: MI) using a lottery method. Pregnant women aged 18 years and older, gestational age between 8 and 30 weeks were included. A face-to-face interview and oral examination were conducted to assess baseline knowledge and oral hygiene status. A follow-up examination was conducted after one month of intervention. Inferential statistics, including the chi-square test and independent t-test, were used to compare variables between the two groups. The mean knowledge score at baseline was comparable between Group 1 (WhatsApp) and Group 2 (MI). However, post-intervention, Group 2 showed a significantly higher mean knowledge score compared to Group 1. Post-intervention, Group 2 exhibited a significantly better oral hygiene status compared to Group 1. Significant improvements in oral health behaviours were observed in Group 2 compared to Group 1 (p < 0.001). The findings suggested that while both interventions were effective, MI showed superior results in improving knowledge, oral hygiene status, and oral health behaviours. The personalized and client-centred approach of MI enables participants to explore and resolve ambivalence, promoting a deeper understanding of the importance of oral health during pregnancy. Registration: CTRI ( CTRI/2021/09/036407, 10/09/2021).

Mobile Phone–Based Personalized and Interactive Augmented Reality Pictorial Health Warnings for Enhancing a Brief Advice Model for Smoking Cessation: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Augmented reality (AR) is a novel modality for promoting smoking cessation (SC). AR-visualized adverse consequences for education and smoking prevention have only been evaluated in nonsmokers in previous studies. Objective To assess the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness for SC of AR pictorial health warnings (PHWs) on cigarette packs. Methods We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial in adult daily smokers in communities in Hong Kong. All participants received AWARD (ask, warn, advise, referral, do-it-again) model–guided SC advice, a warning leaflet, and referral to SC services at baseline. Interactive, chat-based SC support comprising regular messages and real-time support was provided to all participants via instant messaging apps (eg, WhatsApp) for 3 months after randomization. Participants in the intervention group additionally received 6 links to the AR PHWs showing the worsening health status of various organs caused by smoking. The level of the AR PHWs was adjustable to smoking behaviors (ie, smoking duration or daily cigarette consumption) to increase interaction. Participants could swipe, drag, or rotate the 3D PHWs to reinforce their impression of the health consequences of smoking. The primary outcome was self-reported past 7-day point-prevalence abstinence (PPA) at 3 months. The acceptability of the AR intervention was assessed by the proportion of participants who had viewed AR PHWs during the intervention. Participants who viewed AR PHWs further evaluated the perceived effect of the AR PHWs on a scale of 0 (not helpful at all) to 10 (very helpful). Intention to treat was used, and the risk ratio (RR) of the intervention effect was estimated by Poisson regression. Results From April to November 2021, 80 participants were recruited and randomly assigned to intervention (n=40) and control (n=40) groups. Most participants were male (66/80, 83%) and planned to quit beyond 30 days or were undecided (65/80, 81%). The intervention group had a higher but nonsignificant 7-day PPA (7/40, 18% vs 5/40, 13%; RR 1.40, 95% CI 0.48-4.07) and quit attempts (15/40, 38% vs 11/40, 28%; RR 1.36, 95% CI 0.71-2.60) at 3 months than the control group. In the intervention group, 17 of 40 (43%) participants viewed the AR PHWs. The AR PHWs had modest effects on knowledge of the adverse consequences of smoking on personal health (mean score 3.94, SD 3.52), reducing the frequency of buying cigarettes (mean score 3.29, SD 3.08), increasing the perceived importance of quitting (mean score 3.88, SD 3.50), and making the PHWs more disgusting (mean score 3.41, SD 3.08) and horrible (mean score 3.38, SD 3.05). The 3-month self-reported 7-day PPA was higher in those who ever (vs never) viewed the AR PHWs (5/17, 29% vs 2/23, 9%). Conclusions The mobile-based interactive AR PHWs were feasible, and the effectiveness on smoking abstinence warrants further testing. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04830072; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04830072

Clinical and Economic Impact of Early Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease in General Practice: The Endorse Study.

The underdiagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains a significant public health concern. The Early chroNic kiDney disease pOint of caRe Screening (ENDORSE) project aimed to evaluate the clinical and economic implications of a targeted training intervention for general practitioners (GPs) to enhance CKD awareness and early diagnosis. Data on estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) and Urinary Albumin-Creatinine Ratio (uACR) were collected by 53 Italian GPs from 112,178 patients at baseline and after six months. The intervention involved six months of hybrid training provided by 11 nephrologists, which included formal lectures, instant messaging support, and joint visits for complex cases. The results demonstrated a substantial increase in the use of eGFR (+44.7%) and uACR (+95.2%) tests. This led to a 128.9% rise in the number of individuals screened for CKD using the KDIGO classification, resulting in a 62% increase in CKD diagnoses. The intervention's impact was particularly notable in high-risk groups, including patients with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure. A budget impact analysis projected cumulative five-year savings of €1.7 million for the study cohort. When these findings were extrapolated to the entire Italian CKD population, potential savings were estimated at €106.6 million, highlighting significant cost savings for the national health service. The clinical simulation assumed that early diagnosed CKD patients would be treated according to current indications for dapagliflozin, which slows disease progression. The ENDORSE model demonstrated that targeted training for GPs can significantly improve early CKD detection, leading to better patient outcomes and considerable economic benefits. This approach shows promise for broader implementation to address the underdiagnosis of CKD on a national and potentially international scale.

Patients' and Therapists' Views of Integrated Online CBT for Depression.

CBT is an effective treatment for depression, but access varies across the United Kingdom. Online CBT increases access. The INTERACT platform was designed to support patient engagement in CBT, enabling therapists to deliver high-intensity CBT via typed instant messaging and allowing patients and therapists access to an integrated online library of resources during and between sessions. The INTERACT trial aimed to evaluate this integrated approach to delivering CBT for primary care patients with depression. A nested qualitative study was conducted within the trial. Interviews were conducted with 20 patients who received the intervention, 9 therapists who delivered it and 3 therapist supervisors. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The combination of receiving support from a therapist and having access to integrated online CBT resources enabled patients to better manage their depression. Platform benefits included the opportunity to review transcripts to clarify how to complete homework tasks and track progress in managing their depression. The typing process allowed reflection and a focused discussion. However, less could be covered than during an in-person session, which reduced therapists' expectations around goal setting. Patients who did not complete therapy struggled with the typing and found the CBT approach too demanding. Findings highlight the importance of establishing patient and therapist goals and expectations about what can be achieved in CBT mediated by typing. Some patients are comfortable communicating via typing and are motivated to utilise online resources in between sessions. Exploring the benefits and challenges of typed CBT with patients will enable them to make an informed choice about referral for this novel approach to therapy. Patients, service users and members of the public were involved in the study design and management. Substantial pilot work gathered stakeholder feedback and informed the design of the intervention, before undertaking the RCT. Coauthor P.L. is a service user representative co-applicant and member of the management group responsible for developing the intervention and the trial. Two PPI members sit on the Independent Steering Committee. PPI members provided valuable feedback on the study resources and documents.

Reverse Engineering for Static Analysis of Android Malware in Instant Messaging Apps

Malware poses a significant threat to Android devices due to their high prevalence and vulnerability to attacks. Analyzing malware on these devices is crucial given the persistent and sophisticated threats targeting Android users. Static analysis of Android malware is a key approach used to detect malicious software without executing the application. This method involves meticulously examining the application's source code or binaries to identify signs of suspicious or harmful activities. The research methodology consists of three stages. The first stage involves collecting malware samples spread through instant messaging applications. The second stage employs reverse engineering, where APK files are decompiled to extract their contents. Following this, a static analysis is conducted, focusing on the AndroidManifest.xml file and the source code to identify the behavior and potential threats posed by the malware. The static analysis results revealed that Android malware often requests sensitive permissions to access personal data, such as receiving, reading, and sending SMS, as well as accessing location and contacts. Further analysis uncovered that after acquiring this data, the malware transmits it to the Telegram API via authenticated HTTP requests using specific tokens and chat_ids. These findings highlight that the permissions requested by the malware are designed to clandestinely collect and export personal data, posing a severe threat to the privacy and security of Android users.

Dynamic Silos: Increased Modularity and Decreased Stability in Intraorganizational Communication Networks During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Workplace communications around the world were drastically altered by the COVID-19 pandemic, related work-from-home orders, and the rise of remote work. To understand these shifts, we analyzed aggregated, anonymized metadata from over 360 billion emails within 4,361 organizations worldwide. By comparing month-to-month and year-over-year metrics, we examined changes in network community structures over the 24 months before and after COVID-19. We also examined shifts across multiple communication media (email, instant message, video call, and calendaring software) within a single global organization and compared them with communications shifts that were driven by changes in formal organizational structure. We found that in 2020, organizations around the world became more siloed than in 2019, evidenced by increased modularity. This shift was concurrent with decreased stability within silos. Collectively, our analyses indicate that following the onset of COVID-19, employees’ communications began to shift more dynamically between subcommunities (teams, workgroups, or functional areas). At the same time, once in a subcommunity, they limited their communication to other members of that community. We term these network changes dynamic silos. We provide initial insights into the meaning and implications of dynamic silos for the future of work. This paper was accepted by Lamar Pierce, organizations. Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02797 .

Secure Messaging Application Development: Based on Post-Quantum Algorithms CSIDH, Falcon, and AES Symmetric Key Cryptosystem

Secure Messaging Application Development: Based on Post-Quantum Algorithms CSIDH, Falcon, and AES Symmetric Key Cryptosystem

Effects of 72-hour abstinence from instant messaging on craving, withdrawal, and affect

The effects of abstinence from digital services and/or devices (aka “digital detox”) on mental health have received increased interest in recent years. Regular breaks and abstinent periods are advised to help individuals who overuse digital technology, but the psychological benefits and related consequences require empirical attention. While some studies have examined the impact of abstinence from smartphone or social networks (SN) on mental health, there is a dearth of literature on the effects of abstinence from Instant Messaging (IM) services. This study examined the association between a 72-h abstinence from IM and subjective craving toward IM, IM withdrawal-like symptoms, affect (positive and negative), and time spent on IM. Thirty-five undergraduates who regularly engaged in IM were assessed one day before (baseline), during (daily), one day after, and one week after refraining from using IM for 72 h. Results revealed a moderate-to-large decrease in craving (η2 = 0.438) and negative affect (η2 = 0.386) during and after the abstinence, whereas withdrawal-like symptoms and positive affect remained stable (η2 between 0.009 and 0.140). One week after abstinence, participants reported a small-to-moderate decrease in their IM use (d = 0.32). These results suggest that abstinence from IM is associated with reduced preoccupation and/or obsession (i.e., craving) with this use and lower negative affect. However, withdrawal-like symptoms and positive affect did not change. These findings support recommendations that IM users experiencing negative affect states may benefit from short-term abstinence. Further research should investigate strategies to support users in undertaking abstinence and regulating their digital device use.

Organizing the Work of Curators at the University Using Social Networks and Instant Messengers

Organizing the Work of Curators at the University Using Social Networks and Instant Messengers

Library Service Usage, Barriers, and Strategies to Enhance Patronage Among Working Students

This study aimed to investigate the challenges faced by working students in patronizing library services in Nigeria and to propose tailored solutions to enhance their patronage. A descriptive survey research design was used to collect data from 110 working undergraduate students, which was then analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings showed that busy job schedules, limited time on campus, and the fact that they mainly come to the campus for lectures are the primary reasons why working students rarely patronize the library. However, most of them expressed the need for library access tailored to their unique needs, which includes remote or distance approach. The preferred methods for accessing library services among working students include selective dissemination of e-books to their emails and having librarians available on a dedicated WhatsApp number. Additionally, they indicated openness to the idea of using chatbots to respond to their library requests. The study concluded that the use of technology such as email, instant messenger, and chatbots can address the challenges hindering library patronage by working students. Thus, the study recommends that library administrators invest in developing and adopting these technologies to meet the demands of working students in Nigeria.

The effect of aggressive group norms on young adults’ conformity behavior in WhatsApp chats: a vignette-based experiment

Social networking and messaging applications, such as WhatsApp, have become an essential social environment for adolescents and young adults (AYA). While facilitating connectivity, they also bear hazards, including cyber-aggression. This study investigates the impact of (aggressive) group norms on AYA's propensity to expect cyberaggressive behaviors within different group chats. Based on a vignette scenario, realistically simulated WhatsApp group chats enabled scrutinizing, if and how exemplary reactions (funny, aggressive, friendly) of group members influence AYA's conformity to cyber-aggression (N = 500, aged 16 to 29). Additionally, we examined the effect of chat group type—close friends versus fellow students—on the anticipation of aggressive reactions. Sociodemographic, social, and developmental-psychological factors were evaluated for potential effects. Multilevel logistic regression analyses indicated that aggressive group norms significantly predict cyber-aggression anticipation, while no effect of chat group type was observed. Controlling for the size and vivacity of participant’s friend group, gender, age, and educational status were significant predictors: males, younger participants, and non-university students expected higher levels of cyber-aggression conformity. This study underlines the importance of group dynamics on perceptions of cyber-aggression and hints at individual risk factors for AYA's digital communication behavior.

“Check this out! ”: Collective functions of instant messaging about media content

“Check this out! ”: Collective functions of instant messaging about media content

Improved Message Mechanism-Based Cross-Domain Security Control Model in Mobile Terminals

Dual-domain terminal with two built-in independent operating systems - Life Domain and Work Domain, provides convenience for daily use and mobile office. However, the security isolation between the two domains also causes that message reminders cannot be delivered and viewed across domains, which restricts the improvement of work efficiency and the expansion of mobile services. This paper conducts an in-depth study on this pain point and proposes the concept and implementation method of a cross-domain instant messaging reminder service system for mobile office, focusing on solving the problems of: cross-domain isolated boundary exchange of message reminders, timeliness and delivery rate guarantee of message reminders, and security check filtering of message contents. Technically, on the side of mobile office platform, based on AMQP technical framework and protocol, the cross-domain isolated border message queue push and synchronization services are built, which are real-time, reliable and high-throughput.

Utility of instant messaging application, WhatsApp, as a tool to augment post-graduate radiology education

BackgroundSmart phone technology including different instant messaging applications like, WhatsApp, can be used for the development of radiological skills, reporting, and performance. To determine the utility, attitude, and outcome of WhatsApp for augmenting education in FCPS radiology residency program. To assess the opinion of radiology residents regarding WhatsApp as a tool to enhance postgraduate training.MethodologyA mixed method (qualitative and quantitative) was conducted at Dow Institute of Radiology, Karachi, Pakistan. All FCPS Radiology residents were given a radiological case by principal investigator followed by residents’ response in 24 h. Key findings were shared by the mentor. Before and after the intervention of WhatsApp, all residents were evaluated with written and radiological imaging reporting exam. For quantitative analysis, a closed ended questionnaire was used containing information about total number of messages, images, webpage links shared, level of contribution (active/non-active), and utility (contribution in education related topic only). A feedback form with Likert scale was also got filled by all residents. For qualitative research, semi structured interviews (SSIs) were conducted.ResultsMedian number of total images shared were 293 (IQR 1002 images), messages shared 110 (IQR), webpages shared were 54 webpages (61 webpages) and total contents shared by participants was 243 (544 contents). Active contributors showed better performance in utility, competency of contents and attitude towards using social media as a medium for learning. Comparison of written and OSCE results showed better performance after the intervention. Feedback form with Likert scale revealed that students responded positively regarding the shared learning content. Thematic analysis showed 52 codes and 16 themes.ConclusionIn this research we have observed that WhatsApp is highly efficient and productive academic tool which can amplify postgraduate radiology education. Student’s narrative reflects that residents have found the missing link which can take them to radiological professional excellence through targeted high-profile learning outside lecture hall in time and place convenient motivational environment. Once it will be blended with existing teaching strategy, it can prove to be a game changer.

Reducing the Gap in Knowledge and Expectations between Clinicians and People with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or Adrenal Conditions: Simulation via Instant Messaging—Birmingham Advance: Patient and Public Involvement (SIMBA-PPI) Study

BackgroundTo evaluate the efficacy of SIMBA as an educational intervention for both HCPs and people with either PCOS or adrenal conditions and to study the change in knowledge of people with PCOS or adrenal conditions about the conditions and expectations from the HCPs involved in their care following SIMBA-PPI sessions.MethodsTwo SIMBA-PPI sessions (SIMBA-PPI Polycystic ovary syndrome (SIMBA-PCOS) and SIMBA-PPI Adrenal conditions (SIMBA-Adrenal conditions)) were conducted in September 2021 and March 2022. In both sessions, HCPs interacted with moderators on patient management through WhatsApp. Patients with respective conditions underwent workshop-style learning in the same cases. SIMBA-PCOS transcripts were also translated into Brazilian Portuguese and workshops were held in both Brazilian Portuguese and English. The two groups (HCPs and patients) were then brought together to discuss exploring gaps in knowledge and expectations. The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test compared differences in pre- and post-SIMBA self-reported confidence levels in HCPs and patients. Qualitative data from the online recordings were transcribed and analysed with inductive thematic analysis to identify gaps in knowledge and expectations from managing the cases.Results48 HCPs and 25 patients participated in our study. When compared to pre-SIMBA confidence levels, SIMBA-PPI sessions effectively improved clinicians’ confidence in managing PCOS (40.5%, p < .001) and adrenal conditions (23.0%, p < .001) post-SIMBA. Patient participants’ confidence in HCPs significantly increased in the PCOS session (SIMBA-PCOS: 6.25%, p = 0.01).ConclusionsIntegration of PPI into SIMBA improved HCPs' confidence in managing PCOS and adrenal conditions. SIMBA-PPI also improved patients’ confidence in HCPs. Our findings suggest that participating in SIMBA-PPI sessions can reduce the gap in knowledge and expectations between patients and HCPs involved in their care.

Feasibility and Preliminary Effects of a Social Media-Based Peer-Group Mobile Messaging Smoking Cessation Intervention Among Chinese Immigrants who Smoke: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

Chinese immigrants experience significant disparities in tobacco use. Culturally adapted tobacco treatments targeting this population are sparse and the use is low. The low use of these treatment programs is attributed to their exclusive focus on individuals who are ready to quit and the wide range of barriers that Chinese immigrants face to access these programs. To support Chinese immigrant smokers at all levels of readiness to quit and address their access barriers, we developed the WeChat Quit Coach, a culturally and linguistically appropriate WeChat (Tencent Holdings Limited)-based peer group mobile messaging smoking cessation intervention. This study aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of WeChat Quit Coach. We enrolled a total of 60 Chinese immigrant smokers in 2022 in New York City for a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) and a single-arm pilot test. The first 40 participants were randomized to either the intervention arm (WeChat Quit Coach) or the control arm (self-help print material) using 1:1 block randomization stratified by sex. WeChat Quit Coach lasted 6 weeks, featuring small peer groups moderated by a coach, daily text messages with text questions, and chat-based instant messaging support from the coach in response to peer questions. The next 20 participants were enrolled in the single-arm pilot test to further assess intervention feasibility and acceptability. All 60 participants were offered a 4-week supply of complimentary nicotine replacement therapy. Surveys were administered at baseline and 6 weeks, with participants in the pilot RCT completing an additional survey at 6 months and biochemical verification of abstinence at both follow-ups. Of 74 individuals screened, 68 (92%) were eligible and 60 (88%) were enrolled. The majority of participants, with a mean age of 42.5 (SD 13.8) years, were male (49/60, 82%) and not ready to quit, with 70% (42/60) in the precontemplation or contemplation stage at the time of enrollment. The pilot RCT had follow-up rates of 98% (39/40) at 6 weeks and 93% (37/40) at 6 months, while the single-arm test achieved 100% follow-up at 6 weeks. On average, participants responded to daily text questions for 25.1 days over the 42-day intervention period and 23% (9/40) used the chat-based instant messaging support. Most participants were satisfied with WeChat Quit Coach (36/39, 92%) and would recommend it to others (32/39, 82%). At 6 months, self-reported 7-day point prevalence abstinence rates were 25% (5/20) in the intervention arm and 15% (3/20) in the control arm, with biochemically verified abstinence rates of 25% (5/20) and 5% (1/20), respectively. WeChat Quit Coach was feasible and well-received by Chinese immigrants who smoke and produced promising effects on abstinence. Large trials are warranted to assess its efficacy in promoting abstinence in this underserved population. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05130788; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05130788.

Protecting Instant Messaging Notifications against Physical Attacks: A Novel Instant Messaging Notification Protocol Based on Signal Protocol

Over the years, there has been a significant surge in the popularity of instant messaging applications (IMAs). However, the message notification functionality in IMAs exhibits certain limitations. Some IMAs fail to alert users about new messages after their phone restarts unless they unlock the phone. This is a consequence of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) and the app not knowing the message is in the queue until the app decrypts it. This approach using E2EE is used to prevent offline attacks, as the key is unavailable to decrypt the notification messages. In this paper, we introduce a novel design and implementation of a message notification protocol for IMAs based on the Signal protocol. The proposed protocol aims to securely display notifications on a locked device and ensures that cryptographic keys are stored in a location that is isolated from the user’s device to prevent offline attacks. This approach enhances the security of private key storage, safeguarding private keys against various external threats. The innovative design strengthens the off-site key management system, rendering it resilient against offline attacks and mitigating the risk of key compromise. Additionally, the proposed protocol is highly efficient, requiring no specialized hardware for implementation. It offers confidentiality of cryptographic keys and protection against offline attacks, further enhancing the overall security of the system. We evaluate the protocol’s effectiveness by analyzing multiple independent implementations that pass a suite of formal tests via ProVerif.

Construction and Content Validation of Mobile Devices' Application Messages about Food and Nutrition for DM2 Older Adults.

Older adults face a decline in the quality of their diet, which affects their health. The prevalence of DM2 is increasing, as are the associated complications. Effective nutrition education and mobile health (mHealth) interventions offer a viable solution in the scenario of the widespread use of mobile devices. This study aimed to develop and validate messages for a mobile application aimed at older adult Brazilians with DM2 who receive care at the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). The educational messages on healthy eating for older adults with DM2 were created from 189 excerpts selected from Brazilian official documents. A total of 37 messages were created, categorized into 20 educational, 12 motivational, and 5 congratulatory, all up to 120 characters. Twenty-one experts validated the messages for clarity and relevance, and 11 messages had to be revised to meet the criteria. Subsequently, the 36 messages approved by the experts were tested on a sample of 57 older adults, guaranteeing clarity rates of over 80%. This study developed and validated 36 messages for a mobile health app aimed at older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Brazil. Expert evaluation ensured clarity and relevance, confirmed by older adult participants who evaluated clarity. This research highlights the potential of mHealth to overcome barriers to accessing healthcare in the SUS, emphasizing personalized interventions for the effective management of older adults' health.

Is there an intergenerational discrepancy in the comprehension and aesthetic preference regarding emoji usage? Evidence from WeChat.

Emojis are widely used on social media, blogs, and instant messaging to express users' feelings. However, in everyday interactions, the same emoji often has different interpretations and aesthetic preferences among different age groups. This can lead to communication barriers and misunderstandings. Based on social identity theory, this study uses WeChat, a social platform popular in China, to analyze intergenerational differences in emoji understanding and preferences through a questionnaire survey. The results indicate: (1) There are significant intergenerational differences in the usage habits, interpretation, and aesthetic preferences of emojis. (2) Middle-aged and elderly tend to interpret goodbye emoji symbols as simple emotional expressions, such as "goodbye" or "see you later," while younger-age groups lean towards more complex emotions and social intentions, such as "speechlessness" and "end of friendship." (3) Younger-age groups use emojis frequently and with a wide variety, whereas middle-aged and elderly groups use emojis less frequently and with limited variety. Younger individuals' aesthetic preferences for emojis lean towards humor, conflict, and narrative, whereas middle-aged and elderly groups prefer emojis with bright colors and everyday greetings typical of their generation. Based on research findings, we believe that social identity theory provides a framework for understanding how individuals establish their identities through interactions with specific social groups. This study is beneficial for identifying the comprehension and aesthetic biases in emoji usage across generations, sheds light on the broader implications of social identity theory in digital communication contexts, and promotes friendly social interactions in real-time communication applications.