Communication Methods Research Articles

Perception of commercial advertising by generations Y and Z

Generations Y and Z make up a significant share of consumers, so businesses need to adapt their advertising strategies and communication methods to the characteristics of each generation. The purpose of the paper is to investigate the differences in the perception of commercial advertising by generations Y and Z. The methodological basis of the study is marketing theory and the theory of generations. Comparison of means tests, linear regression, and Lasso regression were used as research methods. The data set of the study is represented by data from a survey of 308 respondents conducted in February 2023 and designed us ing the semantic differential method. Our findings show statistically significant differences in the perception by generations Y and Z of the colour temperature of a commercial, the dynamism and volume of the music, and friendliness of the actors. Among the factors affecting the probability of purchase by both generations are the need for product, colour temperature, and high-quality commercial editing, while generation Z is influenced by the semantic component and friendliness of the actors, and generation Y – by the emotional component. Generation Y consumers are more prone to impulse buying behaviour. The factors influencing the likelihood to purchase are ranked in descending order of importance: for generation Z, these are the need for product, inter est in the plot of the commercial, attractiveness of the actors, and exclusivity of the offer; for generation Y, these are the need for product, inspiration after watching, depth of meaning of the advertisement, and exclusivity of the offer. The results of the study may be useful to representatives of the marketing and advertising industry.

Telepharmacy and remote medication management: An empirical study from patients' perspectives.

Background: Telepharmacy has emerged as a vital tool in healthcare, allowing remote medication management, especially for patients in rural areas. Despite its growing adoption, there is limited empirical evidence on its effectiveness and patient experiences in diverse healthcare settings. Aim: This study aims to investigate telepharmacy and remote medication management through the lens of patients, shedding light on their attitudes, challenges, and preferences. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design is adopted in this study. Survey participants included outpatients aged above 18 years, accessing telepharmacy services from public hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The survey questionnaire focuses on evaluating patients' experiences and perspectives regarding telepharmacy services for remote medication management. Excluding incomplete responses resulted in a final sample of 403. Results: Participants reported positive experiences with telepharmacy, rating it moderately to very effective (Mean = 3.12-3.21) across various factors. Significant age-related differences were observed, with younger participants perceiving telepharmacy more favorably (P < 0.0001). Education levels did not significantly affect perceptions. Residential location also showed no significant impact. Patients suggested technical support and improved communication methods to enhance telepharmacy services. Implementing these suggestions increased patients' likelihood of future telepharmacy use. Conclusion: Telepharmacy, by utilizing telecommunication technology, offers a transformative approach to remote medication management, significantly improving patient care across various healthcare environments.

The impact of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic on educational and professional growth of young Italian epileptologists: a survey of the Young Epilepsy Section-Italian chapter.

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus-related disease SARS-CoV-2 infection pandemic. Italy was one of the most affected countries and managed the emergency also by a health care reorganization. The Education and Career Development Task Force of the Young Epilepsy Section-Italy (YES-I) designed a survey to assess the impact of the pandemic on the training and work of young epileptologists (< 40years). Fifty-three responses were collected: 45.3% were resident, 9.4% PhD students and the remainder specialists. Clinical activity changed for most (83%) during the pandemic. Educational activity at epilepsy centers was reduced for 35.8% of the survey participants, while 30.2% of research projects involving patients participation were stopped to switch mainly to COVID-19-related research. For 73.6% of survey participants, attending online courses and congresses was easier in terms of cost and organization, although for 50.9% the level of training was lower in quality. In contrast, 58.5% rated the webinars organized by YES-I very educational. Less than 50% of the clinicians used telemedicine in the pandemic period and continue to use it. Despite several positive aspects of virtual medicine, a small number (32.1%) of our interviewees were satisfied from telemedicine and few of them (30.2%) reported that it led to improvement of clinical practice. Our survey showed that the pandemic has had a negative impact on training, research and clinical activity in the epilepsy field; moreover, it underlined the critical aspects of virtual communication methods in order to improve its use for the future.

High performance P300 spellers using GPT2 word prediction with cross-subject training

ABSTRACT Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) severely impairs patients’ ability to communicate, often leading to a decline in their quality of life within a few years of diagnosis. The P300 speller brain–computer interface (BCI) offers an alternative communication method by interpreting a subject’s EEG response to flashing characters presented on a grid interface. This paper addresses the common speed limitations encountered in training efficient P300-based multi-subject classifiers by introducing innovative ‘across-subject’ classifiers. We leverage a combination of the second-generation Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (GPT2) and Dijkstra’s algorithm to optimize stimuli and suggest word completion choices based on subjects’ typing history. Additionally, we employ a multi-layered smoothing technique to accommodate out-of-vocabulary (OOV) words. Through extensive simulations employing random sampling of EEG data from multiple subjects, we demonstrate significant speed enhancements in typing passages containing rare and OOV words. These optimizations result in approximately 10 % improvement in character-level typing speed and up to 40 % improvement in multi-word prediction. We demonstrate that augmenting standard row/column highlighting techniques with layered word prediction yields close-to-optimal performance. Furthermore, we explore both ‘within-subject’ and ‘across-subject’ training techniques, showing that speed improvements are consistent across both approaches.

A Frequency Selecting Method for High-Frequency Communication Based on Ionospheric Oblique Backscatter Sounding

Ionospheric oblique backscatter sounding is an effective means of monitoring the ionosphere which can be used as a frequency selection system to serve HF communication and ensure its quality and stability. But how to obtain effective information from the oblique backscatter ionogram is still a hot issue. Due to this situation, a frequency selecting method for HF communication based on ionospheric oblique backscatter sounding is proposed in this study. After obtaining the ionograms, pattern recognition is used to separate the vertical echoes and the oblique backscatter echoes. Next, the leading edge of the oblique backscatter echoes are extracted, and then a two-dimensional electron density profile can be reconstructed. Then, with the help of ray tracing, the usable frequency range can be estimated. Finally, according to the signal-to-noise ratio reflected by the ionograms, several optimal communication frequencies can be selected. In order to verify this method, oblique ionograms are obtained through oblique sounding experiments to evaluate its accuracy. The result indicates that the usable frequency range and the selected frequencies are in accordance with the echo of the oblique ionogram, so the practicability and accuracy of the method are validated. Eventually, the maximum usable frequencies (MUFs) obtained from oblique backscatter sounding are compared with the MUFs from the oblique sounding ionogram; its Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) is 7.8% and its root mean squared error (RMSE) is 1.34 MHz.

Communication in Mediation

Abstract The purpose of this study is to establish a communication model between the parties to the conflict in mediation based on the research of communication, information, mediation and conflict approaches and definitions. The main methods of communication for finding a solution to a conflict are dialogue between the parties to the conflict and non-violent communication. The model has been designed and practically used to achieve the results of mediation –resolution of a conflict, as well as education of the parties about conflict-free communication for their future relationships. The study/article offers a method for measuring the effectiveness of mediation using the proposed communication model.

Exploring Communication Barriers and Facilitators in School Vaccination: A Case Study in South Eastern Sydney, Australia

Background/Objectives: Given the discrepancies in immunisation coverage, the goal of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators to effective communication across the school-based vaccination program in South Eastern Sydney schools. Methods: A qualitative study was undertaken with purposively selected immunisation staff, school coordinators, and parents of Year 7 students who had not received two vaccinations (dTpa and HPV) at school. A focus group with immunisation staff and interviews with school coordinators explored the barriers and facilitators to vaccination uptake, including communication across stakeholders. The parent interviews explored attitudes to vaccination and the school program and investigated the program communication methods. Results: Five immunisation staff, eleven school coordinators, and eleven parents participated in the study. The barriers to participation in the school vaccination program included low parent recall of vaccination information, challenges encountered by school staff in consent tracking, no communication channel between health staff and parents, a greater school focus on vaccination facilitation than student education, and limited communication between stakeholders about catch-up vaccinations. The facilitators included established school/parent relationships for vaccine communication, effective communication between health and school staff, and using multiple methods to promote clinic and consent requirements. Conclusions: Opportunities exist to increase program participation by enhancing vaccination information and education for students and parents, with better communication about vaccination catch-ups and consent.

Reliability Assessment of Power Distribution Cyber–Physical Systems Considering the Impact of Wireless Access Networks

With the rapid increase in the number of various terminal devices in distribution systems, the important impact of communication networks on power supply reliability in cyber–physical distribution systems (CPDSs) is becoming increasingly prominent. The traditional wired communication method makes it difficult to meet the demand in some scenarios due to high cost and construction difficulty. For this reason, this study evaluated the reliability of power distribution cyber–physical systems, considering fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication technology wireless access conditions. First, a reliability model of a communication channel in a 5G communication network was established, and the indirect impact of information system failure on the power distribution system was analyzed. Secondly, a reliability assessment method based on the improved least path method was devised by combining switch action failure, self-healing processing, and load transfer. The simulation results show that 5G communication technology has significant advantages in improving system reliability, and the proposed method is closer to the development direction of future power distribution systems, which provides an effective reference basis for the optimized operation of power distribution cyber–physical systems.

Wireless Data Transmission through Concrete Structures

Chloride ion presence in the concrete pore solution is an important factor in the initiation of rebar corrosion. Therefore, elevated chloride concentration in the pore solution needs to be detected as early as possible. For this early detection to be achieved, it is ideal to deploy sensors inside the concrete structure itself. This allows real time sampling of the pore solution which is closest to the rebar. To achieve this one needs to have a system based on wireless communication which allow the sensors to communicate within the structure. This would avoid wired communications methods, which impart fragility and implementation difficulties. This literature review paper endeavours to look at the various types of radiation which can be harnessed to penetrate through the opaque concrete structure. Potential data transmission methods utilising Radio Frequency Radiation, Ultrasonic Radiation, X-Ray Radiation and Neutron Beam Radiation physics were reviewed and evaluated against a set of parameters. The paper scores each radiation type against System Size, Power Supply Requirements, Transmission Range, Complexity of Circuits and Safety issues. Through these scores, each transmission technology was graded on its potential to act as the basis on which to build a micrometre sized intra-concrete data transmission system. The paper shows that ultrasonic radiation is the most promising radiation technology for use in this application.

Person-Centered Web-Based Mobile Health System (Symptoms) for Reporting Symptoms in COVID-19 Vaccinated Individuals: Observational Study of System, Users, and Symptoms.

The full spectrum of side effects from COVID-19 vaccinations and infections, including milder symptoms or health effects that do not lead to health care visits, remains unknown. Person-centered self-reporting of symptoms may offer a solution. Monitoring patient-reported outcomes over time will vary in importance for different patients. Individuals have unique needs and preferences, in terms of both communication methods and how the collected information is used to support care. This study aims to describe how Symptoms, a system for person-centered self-reporting of symptoms and health-related quality of life, was utilized in investigating COVID-19 vaccine side effects. We illustrate this by presenting data from the Symptoms system in newly vaccinated individuals from the RECOVAC (Register-based large-scale national population study to monitor COVID-19 vaccination effectiveness and safety) study. During the COVID-19 pandemic, newly vaccinated individuals were identified as the ideal population to query for milder symptoms related to COVID-19 vaccinations and infections. To this end, we used posters in observation areas at 150 vaccination sites across the Västra Götaland region of Sweden, inviting newly vaccinated individuals to use a novel digital system, Symptoms. In the Symptoms system, users can track their symptoms, functioning, and quality of life as often as they wish, using evidence-based patient-reported outcome measures and short numeric rating scales. These scales cover a prespecified list of symptoms based on common COVID-19 symptoms and previously reported vaccine side effects. Participants could also use numeric rating scales for self-defined symptoms if their symptom was not included on the prespecified list. A total of 731 people created user accounts and consented to share data for research between July 21, 2021, and September 27, 2022. The majority of users were female (444/731, 60.7%), with a median age of 38 (IQR 30-47) years. Most participants (498/702, 70.9%) did not report any of the comorbidities included in the questionnaire. Of the 731 participants, 563 (77.0%) reported experiencing 1 or more symptoms. The most common symptom was pain at the injection site (486/563, 86.3%), followed by fatigue (181/563, 32.1%) and headache (169/563, 30.0%). In total, 143 unique symptoms were reported. Of these, 29 were from the prespecified list, while the remaining 114 (79.7%) were self-defined entries in the symptom field. This suggests that the flexibility of the self-directed system-allowing individuals to decide which symptoms they consider worth tracking-may be an important feature. Self-reported symptoms in the Symptoms system appeared to align with previously observed post-COVID-19 vaccination symptoms. The system was relatively easy to use and successfully captured broad, longitudinal data. Its person-centered and self-directed design seemed crucial in capturing the full burden of symptoms experienced by users.

Corporate marketing in modern hospitals and satisfaction level of corporate clients in Bangladesh

The study's abstract emphasizes the Marketing Department's dual responsibility in creating external awareness and disseminating internal information in modern hospitals. To improve service quality and management decision-making, the department keeps an eye on patient happiness and oversees communication, advertising, corporate agreements and feedback methods. Key research findings show that while corporate patients generally value the department's cutting-edge technology and the expertise of its staff, they do have reservations about the department's responsiveness and punctuality, particularly with regard to inpatient care. Patients in the Outpatient Department (OPD) expressed greater levels of satisfaction than those in the Inpatient Department (IPD), where patients expressed greater dissatisfaction with personalized care and error correction. To increase general patient happiness, recommendations include enhancing service speed, providing personnel training, and attending to particular patient requirements.

Wireless Data Transmission through Concrete Structures

Chloride ion presence in the concrete pore solution is an important factor in the initiation of rebar corrosion. Therefore, elevated chloride concentration in the pore solution needs to be detected as early as possible. For this early detection to be achieved, it is ideal to deploy sensors inside the concrete structure itself. This allows real time sampling of the pore solution which is closest to the rebar. To achieve this one needs to have a system based on wireless communication which allow the sensors to communicate within the structure. This would avoid wired communications methods, which impart fragility and implementation difficulties. This literature review paper endeavours to look at the various types of radiation which can be harnessed to penetrate through the opaque concrete structure. Potential data transmission methods utilising Radio Frequency Radiation, Ultrasonic Radiation, X-Ray Radiation and Neutron Beam Radiation physics were reviewed and evaluated against a set of parameters. The paper scores each radiation type against System Size, Power Supply Requirements, Transmission Range, Complexity of Circuits and Safety issues. Through these scores, each transmission technology was graded on its potential to act as the basis on which to build a micrometre sized intra-concrete data transmission system. The paper shows that ultrasonic radiation is the most promising radiation technology for use in this application.

The Impact of Cross-Cultural Management on International Business Performance – A Case Study of Alibaba and Amazon

This essay examines the impact of cross-cultural management on international business performance, with a focus on Alibaba and Amazon. Through a comparative analysis of their management practices, the study explores how cultural dimensions influence leadership styles, communication methods, and decision-making processes in these global e-commerce giants. Cultural differences can be comprehended through theoretical frameworks, such as Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory. The essay delves into Alibaba’s organizational practices and growth, highlighting its alignment with Chinese cultural values, and contrasts these with Amazon’s decentralized structure and customer-centric approach driven by Western business norms. The report shows how each company’s cross-cultural tactics contribute to its global success by analysing performance criteria like customer engagement, staff satisfaction, and operational efficiency. The findings reveal that Alibaba’s emphasis on collectivism and long-term relationships fosters strong local partnerships and employee loyalty, while Amazon’s adaptability and innovation are key to its international expansion. The essay concludes with recommendations for other multinational enterprises seeking to navigate the challenges of cross-cultural management effectively. These findings emphasize the importance of cultural knowledge and customized management techniques in improving a company’s performance in various markets.

Building an Accessible and Flexible Multi-User Robotic Simulation Framework with Unity-MATLAB Bridge

Multi-user collaborative robotic simulation has great potential for applications in industry and education. Unity is a powerful software for simulation and online multi-user experience, which can be enhanced with third-party mathematical analysis and multiplayer servers. Unity can become a much more capable and user-friendly robotic simulation package through integration with other software. These include MATLAB for computations and the Photon Unity Engine (PUN) for online multi-user capabilities. This study developed a flexible robotic simulation framework that can be adapted to different scenarios for industrial and educational applications. Several simulation scenarios were developed to identify the most efficient data communication methods between MATLAB and Unity. TCP/IP, Shared Memory, Firebase, and MQTT, were selected to assess their performance and interaction with data in Unity and MATLAB. Next, an independent PUN application was created. Both components were integrated into the simulator for evaluation and performance optimization. The performance of this simulation framework was assessed through two case studies. The results demonstrated that the integrated framework is viable, efficient, and flexible for robotic simulation and digital twins. Future research will expand the framework by adding diverse functionalities to provide users with a better interface, enhancing its performance, and integrating additional software packages.

Living in a Digital World: Different Reflection on the Online Taoism Spreading

With the rise of the Internet and social media, Taoism’s ideas, symbols and other information have gradually come into the public’s view through Internet platforms. However, Taoist culture, as an excellent traditional Chinese culture, faces challenges and uncertainties when adapting to the new cultural communication methods in the digital age. In order to comprehensively understand the current status of Taoist culture’s online communication in the digital age and to promote the modernization of traditional Taoist culture, this study uses questionnaires and interviews to collect the views of two groups, Taoist priests and the general public, on online Taoist culture communication. The study found that although the Internet has facilitated the popularization of Taoist culture, its dissemination is relatively shallow and suffers from fragmentation of information and shallow understanding. Regarding online communication channels, Taoist priests support the integration of Taoist culture with digital society with an open attitude. However, the public wants to improve the accuracy and systematization of online communication. The study suggests that the participation of Taoist officials should be strengthened, and that the government and society should respect the objective laws of Taoist cultural development and reduce intervention to promote the transmission and development of Taoist culture in the digital age. This study helps to clarify the current situation of Taoist thought’s online dissemination and provides inspiration for authorities to promote the development of excellent traditional Chinese culture.

The Impact of Social Media Use Among Millennial Couples

Social media use (SMU) among millennials (i.e., persons born between 1981 and 1996) is considered a hallmark behavior, with nearly 79% of individuals in this age bracket reportedly using social media multiple times a day. Despite the potential benefits of social media access, this communication method impedes forming deep connections, posing detrimental consequences to enduring romantic relationships among millennials. In recent years, SMU among millennials has skyrocketed, potentially contributing to the increased relational ruptures during this time, such as increased conflict and infidelity rates. With social media providing an outlet for individuals to text, share thoughts, photos, and intimate messages—all with the possibility of evading being caught, the millennial culture is shifting the dynamics of romantic relationships. As a result, therapists are seeing an increased number of couples from the millennial culture with heightened relational dysfunction due to social media and the digital world. Now more than ever, clinicians must be equipped with the necessary skills and competencies to assist millennial romantic relationships impacted by SMU. An in-depth literature review will provide a landscape to examine the role of social media, online dating, partner selection, and issues surrounding infidelity over the last decade. This article will conclude with a case study and recommendations for best practices to help facilitate healing among millennial relationships affected by negative SMU.

Exploring the Influence of Social Media on the Communication of Chinese Folk Culture

The Chinese Folk Culture contains excellent inventions and traditional habits of ancient China, it needs to be transmitted to young people to remember the history. Nowadays the previous media has switched to the internet and social media. Researching this new type of communication method can explore the new possibility of inheriting Chinese Folk Culture. The article is based on 2 research methods which are literature review and case study, the research will analyze the current literature on Folk culture and social media to find proof of the switching for communication. The case study will pick two specific cases and compare the data and quality. The research found that different social media platforms have different transmitting characteristics. Short video platforms can spread in a wide range but limited contents of culture. Long video platforms like BiliBili are more focused on the details of the Folk Culture. Social media can attract part of young people but still have the shortcoming of a shallow spread.

‘HepGenç’: A youth festival to promote health and well-being via films, photography, music, and arts

Abstract Background The ‘Lifelong Health’ framework of WHO emphasizes that investing in health during young ages fosters better health and higher quality of life in later years. When working with and for youth, using innovative and participatory approaches have become more important for effective health communication, especially in an era of increased environmental stimuli, digitalization, and decreased attention span for many young people, who are less attracted with traditional/ didactic health education and communication methods. Objectives This paper aims to share practical experiences of a multidisciplinary team of professionals with backgrounds in public health, psychiatry, communication, music, and arts, in collaboration with young people to organize a series of youth health festivals in different cities of Turkiye to promote youth health literacy and access to health care, with a special focus on mental health and well-being. Results HepGenc (ForeverYoung) Festivals are organized by academics and youth from different universities in Turkiye, in collaboration with NGOs and local municipalities of cities, where the events take place. These events encourage young people to think about health and well-being, including social and environmental determinants of health via short films, photography, music, and arts. The series of festivals use creative workshops to introduce different health and well-being topics to youth, who may not always find these issues ‘attractive.’ Social and mental health, including resilience and ability to adapt are also addressed, which help young participants to build a holistic and comprehensive look on health and its determinants. Conclusions Organizing health-focused festivals using films, photography, music, and arts encourages young people to be creative and productive, while raising their awareness on healthy lifestyles and healthy cities, and how they can be agents of positive change. Key messages • Using films, music, and arts help with greater engagement of young people and facilitates their learning, as well as their creativity and productivity. • Collaboration of health, communication, and arts professionals strengthens health communication/ education programs, with additional beneficial outcomes for all disciplines including shared learning.

Preferences regarding the Booster Dose of Covid-19: a cross-sectional study in Central Italy

Abstract Background Examining information sources, communication channels, and preferred content formats is crucial for adapting and improving future communication strategies in vaccination campaigns. This study aims to evaluate the information and communication preferences regarding the booster dose of Covid-19 among employees of the Central Tuscany Local Health Authority (CT-LHA). Methods From July to October 2022, a questionnaire was administered to 7,000 out of approximately 15,000 CT-LHA employees. The questionnaire analyzed communication, organizational, and access aspects regarding preferences for the Covid-19 booster dose. The sample was stratified into healthcare workers (HCWs) and non-healthcare workers (NHCWs). Chi-squared tests were performed using STATA, with the significance level set at 95%. Results The returned questionnaires were 1,885 (26.9%), with the majority being HCWs (64.4%). HCWs rated the quality of communication significantly lower compared to NHCWs, who rated it very high (p &amp;lt; 0.05). HCWs also rated the ease of booking the Covid-19 booster dose and access modalities to vaccination significantly lower than NHCWs (p &amp;lt; 0.05). NHCWs expressed a preference for receiving scientific information from Ministry of Health tutorials, while HCWs preferred information from their general practitioner (p &amp;lt; 0.05). HCWs preferred to receive organizational information from healthcare management, while NHCWs preferred information from vaccination physicians (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Additionally, HCWs preferred company operating procedures for disseminating information, whereas NHCWs preferred corporate communications circulars (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Conclusions HCWs and NHCWs showed differences in perceived quality of communication, ease of access to vaccination services, and preferred sources of information. HCWs rated the quality of communication and access to vaccination services lower than NHCWs. This results suggest the need for tailored communication strategies to effectively reach both groups. Key messages • Health organizations need to develop targeted communication approaches that address the specific needs and preferences of their employees. • Flexibility and adaptability are crucial to adapt communication methods and channels to strengthen vaccination initiatives and promote public health outcomes.

Research on Rate Adaptation of Underwater Optical Communication with Joint Control of Photoelectric Domain

As the communication distance changes, the received signal strength of an underwater optical communication system will change, and the range of its variation may not only exceed the dynamic range of the photoelectric detection device but also cause the reliability of communication to change due to the change in the received signal-to-noise ratio. In order to maintain better communication over a longer distance, this paper proposes a rate-adaptive method for underwater optical communication with joint control in the photoelectric domain. In the optical domain, the incident light’s power is adaptively adjusted by controlling the transmittance of the liquid crystal light valve to reduce saturation distortion. In the electrical domain, the constellation distribution is optimized according to the desired probability mass function, and the modulation order is adjusted in real time by estimating the received signal-to-noise ratio of the link. The simulation results show that under the forward error correction (FEC) threshold, the proposed method increases the dynamic range of the photomultiplier tube (PMT) by about 10 dB and expands the dynamic range of the system’s communication distance.