Interactive Online Research Articles

Climate Change Awareness and Policy Implementation in Canberra

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the climate change awareness and policy implementation in Canberra. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study revealed that while there is a high level of public awareness and concern about climate change among residents, translating this awareness into effective policy action remains a challenge. The local government has implemented various policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability, but gaps persist in policy enforcement and public engagement. The findings suggest that stronger collaboration between policymakers, community stakeholders, and educational campaigns is needed to bridge the gap between awareness and actionable outcomes in combating climate change in Canberra. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social cognitive theory, framing theory & the theory of planned behavior may be used to anchor future studies on climate change awareness and policy implementation in Canberra. Educational campaigns should incorporate interactive workshops, online resources, and community events that encourage participation and foster a deeper understanding of climate policies. Policymakers should allocate funding for climate education initiatives, ensuring that they are integrated into school curricula and community learning programs, thereby institutionalizing climate education.

Does the online interaction between retail investors and firms affect stock price synchronicity?

Using data from Chinese listed companies from 2010 to 2022, we examine the effect of online interactive platforms on stock price synchronicity. We find that investor–firm interactions increase stock price synchronicity. These results are robust to endogeneity checks. Our mechanism analysis suggests that information asymmetry accounts for this effect. This effect is more pronounced for firms with fewer institutional investors and those facing periods of heightened economic policy uncertainty.

Consumer interaction and privacy: the impact of in-feed lead generation ads on self-disclosure intention

PurposeAmidst the growing emphasis on privacy protection, this study aims to investigate how online interaction introduced in Lead Generation Ads (LGAs) affects consumers' Self-Disclosure Intention (SDI), particularly in the context of the Chinese advertising market.Design/methodology/approachThis research employs two scenario-based online surveys to analyse in depth the impact of LGAs on consumers' SDI. The first study collects valid feedback from 220 consumers through an online questionnaire to assess the direct effect of perceived interactivity on SDI. The second study, using an experimental design with a sample of 265 participants, further explores the mediating roles of perceived control and perceived vulnerability in the relationship between perceived interactivity and SDI and examines the moderating effect of privacy invasion experience (PIE).FindingsThis study reveals the significant and positive influence of perceived interactivity on SDI, with perceived control acting as a mediator that enhances this effect. Conversely, perceived vulnerability weakens the positive impact of perceived interactivity on SDI. Additionally, we explore the moderating role of PIE and find that it significantly influences the relationship between perceived interactivity and SDI. These findings underscore the importance of considering consumer privacy sensitivity, particularly in the design of interactive marketing strategies and within highly interactive advertising environments.Research limitations/implicationsOur research uncovers consumer privacy attitudes and behaviours in the Chinese market, providing insights into its unique dynamics of privacy and information disclosure. However, the geographical and cultural specificity of our study may limit its generalizability. Future studies should expand into various cultural and market contexts, considering the impact of digital technologies on consumer interactions and information disclosure, thereby enhancing the depth and applicability of global marketing strategies.Practical implicationsAdvertising platforms should explore online interactive communication methods to enhance consumers' perceived interactions and alleviate privacy concerns. Also, platforms should be designed with system security in mind to prevent the leakage and misuse of consumer data, thus increasing consumers' SDI.Social implicationsThe study provides insights for marketers on designing more effective and privacy-sensitive online advertising strategies in the Chinese market. Understanding the factors influencing consumers’ willingness to share personal information can lead to more effective engagement in digital marketing campaigns.Originality/valueBy integrating interactivity theory with privacy computing theory, this research provides a new perspective on the role of online interaction in consumer privacy protection and information disclosure decisions. The findings not only enrich the theoretical frameworks of interactive marketing and privacy protection but also offer empirical support for marketing practitioners in regard to designing interactive advertising strategies, especially balancing consumer privacy protection with the enhancement of shopping intentions.

Improve Mental Health (Improve-MH) in refugee families using a culturally adapted, general practitioner-delivered psychotherapeutic intervention combined with Triple P Online parenting programme: study protocol of a multicentre randomised controlled trial

IntroductionGermany and the European Union have experienced successive waves of refugees since 2014, resulting in over 1.6 million arrivals, including families with young children. These vulnerable populations often face xenophobia,...

Discovery of Novel Biomarkers with Extended Non-Coding RNA Interactor Networks from Genetic and Protein Biomarkers.

Curated online interaction databases and gene ontology tools have streamlined the analysis of highly complex gene/protein networks. However, understanding of disease pathogenesis has gradually shifted from a protein-based core to complex interactive networks where non-coding RNA (ncRNA) is thought to play an essential role. As current gene ontology is based predominantly on protein-level information, there is a growing need to analyze networks with ncRNA. In this study, we propose a gene ontology workflow integrating ncRNA using the NPInter V5.0 database. To validate the proposed workflow, we analyzed our previously published curated biomarker datasets for hidden disease susceptibility processes and pharmacogenomics. Our results show a novel involvement of melanogenesis in psoriasis response to biological drugs in general. Hyperpigmentation has been previously observed in psoriasis following treatment with currently indicated biological drugs, thus calling attention to melanogenesis research as a response biomarker in psoriasis. Moreover, our proposed workflow highlights the need to critically evaluate computed ncRNA interactions within databases and a demand for gene ontology analysis of large miRNA blocks.

Uncivil communication and epistemic trustworthiness concerns in public online discussions in response to scientists during the Covid-19 pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic illustrated important developments in science communication, with direct online interactions between scientists and the public. This study performs a content analysis of tweets (“N” = 6,000) directed at German virologists (“N” = 6) during the pandemic’s first year. It identifies substantial levels of incivility and trustworthiness concerns, which often co-occurred. These findings enhance our understanding of online communication dynamics in crises by showing how incivility and trustworthiness concerns are not only prevalent but also evolve in response to specific events and phases. This analysis provides insight into the complexities of public sentiment toward scientists during the pandemic.

Digital Marketing Strategies in Building Brand Awareness and Loyalty in the Online Era

In today’s digital era, businesses are increasingly adopting digital marketing strategies to enhance brand awareness and foster customer loyalty. As online interactions grow, companies must adapt their marketing efforts to stay compet- itive and engage effectively with consumers. This research employs a mixed- method approach, using both qualitative and quantitative data from case studies of successful companies that have implemented digital marketing strategies. The study examines the role of social media, content marketing, and personalized communication in building brand awareness and loyalty. The study provides new insights into how personalized marketing efforts, including targeted cam- paigns and relevant content, help brands differentiate themselves in a crowded online marketplace. The findings show that consistent use of social media, en- gaging content, and personalization significantly boost brand awareness and fos- ter long-term customer loyalty. Personalization, in particular, strengthens cus- tomer relationships, leading to repeat purchases and advocacy. In conclusion, successful digital marketing requires an in-depth understanding of online con- sumer behavior and the application of tailored strategies. The effective inte- gration of social media, content marketing, and personalized messages enables businesses to build lasting customer relationships and gain a competitive edge in the digital marketplace

Psychological Changes in Green Food Consumption in the Digital Context: Exploring the Role of Green Online Interactions from a Comprehensive Perspective.

The advent of the digital economy has brought new opportunities to food marketing. In China, many food businesses have begun to use interactions under specific social media topics to open up new sales channels. Green food, as a representative of environmentally related topics, is increasingly influencing consumer choices through online interactions. In light of this, this study collected data from a large group of participants engaged in online green interactions to explore the psychological mechanisms behind consumers' choices of green food in an online context. The findings indicate that online green interactions positively influence the willingness to purchase green food, with environmental self-efficacy and flow experience serving as mediators in this relationship. Information trust and consumer traits act as boundary conditions. This study not only deepens the understanding of food consumer behavior in the digital context, but also provides important references for food companies on how to more effectively utilize online interaction to promote the market expansion of green food.

Language Learning Through Zoom

Attributable to the COVID pandemic, Zoom has become one of most widely used digital tools for online interaction. Schools and universities had to transition to wholly online teaching, and Zoom was one of the platforms used for real-time sessions. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate students' experiences of using tools like Zoom to see the positive and negative sides of videoconferencing for language learning. Students' and teachers' digital competence is an important factor that impacts online learning, and therefore students' experiences are analyzed in relation to the TPACK framework, which looks at teachers' digital competences and the intersections between their technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK). It is found that especially the intersection between technological and pedagogical competences is sometimes lacking among teachers and is identified as the cause of a lot of negative experiences. Thus, the conclusion of this study is that such competences need to be developed by teachers.

Surface and deep learning: a blended learning approach in preclinical years of medical school

BackgroundSignificant challenges are arising around how to best enable peer communities, broaden educational reach, and innovate in pedagogy. While digital education can address these challenges, digital elements alone do not guarantee effective learning. This study reports a blended learning approach integrating online and face-to-face components, guided by the Student Approaches to Learning framework.MethodsThis study was carried out investigating learning in first and second year medical students over two academic years, 2019/20 and 2020/21. We evaluated: (1) comparison of students engaged with blended learning and traditional learning; and (2) student learning engaged with blended learning approach over a two-year preclinical curriculum. A revised two-factor study process questionnaire (R-SPQ-2F) evaluated students’ surface/deep learning before and after an academic year. Learning experience (LE) questionnaire was administered over the domains of learning engagement, and outcomes of learning approach. In-depth interviews were carried out to understand the context of students’ responses to the R-SPQ-2F and LE questionnaires.ResultsThe R-SPQ-2F analysis indicated first year students maintained deep learning but second year students became neutral across the academic year, regardless of learning approach, with workload contributing to this outcome. R-SPQ-2F sub-scales showed that students engaged with blended learning maintained an intrinsic interest to learning, as compared to traditional learning which led to surface learning motives. The LE questionnaire showed students engaged with blended learning had deeper subject interest, and more positive perceptions of workload, feedback, and effectively developed skills and knowledge. However, peer interactions from blended learning were significantly lacking. In-depth interviews revealed that the flexibility and multi-modality of blended learning enabled learning, but the best use of these features require teacher support. Online interactions could be cultivated through intentional institutional efforts.ConclusionsThis study highlights the importance of designing blended learning that leverages technology-enabled flexibility while prioritising collaborative, learner-centred spaces for deep engagement and knowledge construction.

Exploring online advocacy mechanisms through self-presentation: a comparative analysis between e-commerce website customers

PurposeUnderpinning social identity theory (SIT) and service-dominant logic (SDL), the current paper seeks to explore the effect of self-presentation on online brand advocacy (OBA). Furthermore, this paper investigates the mediating role of hedonic value and the moderating role of customer interaction with e-commerce websites (i.e. Amazon, Walmart and eBay).Design/methodology/approachData were collected from customers of three e-commerce platforms (i.e. Walmart, Amazon and eBay) using a structured questionnaire – multi-group analysis applied on SmartPLS 4.4.FindingsSelf-presentation has a positive role in increasing hedonic value and its impact on OBA. The moderating effect of customer interaction on these relationships is also investigated and found to be significant.Social implicationsOur findings underscore the significance of fostering inclusive online communities and favorable online settings. Existing findings are consistent with overarching objectives of digital empowerment and enhanced online interaction quality. This paper contributes to harmonious and collaborative digital societies by encouraging personalized experiences that foster a sense of belonging among diverse customers.Originality/valueThis paper adds to the existing body of knowledge by comparing customer behavior on three major e-commerce platforms, going beyond the traditional focus on a single platform. Drawing on SIT and SDL, this paper provides a distinct nomological framework for OBA that unifies disparate constructs, filling theoretical gaps in our understanding of online customer behavior.

Enhancing student engagement in online education: the role of self-regulation and teacher support in Zambia

This study examined the opportunities and difficulties of online learning in Zambia’s higher education system, emphasizing the effects of self-regulation as a mediator between teacher-scaffolded online interactions and student learning engagement. Students and teachers frequently encounter significant challenges, such as low motivation, engagement, and self-regulation, despite the growing popularity of online learning. Hence, there was a need to explore how these can be mitigated through enhanced self-regulation and contribute to better educational outcomes and the broader context of pedagogical innovation. Data was gathered from an online survey of 1323 undergraduate students who took online courses in blended learning environments at four higher education institutions in Zambia. The results show a substantial mediating effect of self-regulation on student learning engagement and teacher-scaffolded online interactions. Findings underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to enhance online learning experiences, including constructive feedback, conducive learning environments, and continuous professional development programs for teachers. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the importance of interactive online learning activities to improve students’ learning management skills and promote self-discipline in online learning. It highlights the vital role of self-regulation, active learning engagement, and teacher-scaffolded online interactions and calls on educators and administrators to develop innovative ways to make participating in online learning smoother.

Nurturing the Teaching Soul: An Investigation on How Participation in Online Communities and Social Networks Boosts Academics Well-being, Professional Satisfaction, and Resilience

This study explores how online community and social network participation impact academics' well-being, professional satisfaction, and resilience. It aims to provide insights into the role of digital platforms in nurturing the teaching soul, a concept encompassing academics' intrinsic motivation, passion, and emotional commitment to their profession. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the research involved interviews with 13 administrators and 43 lecturers from 10 Ugandan universities, totalling 56 participants. The study employed a semi-structured interview guide developed based on social constructivism, focusing on online interactions' collaborative and supportive nature. Data were analyzed using NVivo 12 through thematic coding, with themes developed iteratively to ensure mutual exclusivity and address potential overlaps. The study identified three main themes: Supportive online communities, professional growth and satisfaction, and resilience building. The findings highlight the positive impact of online communities on various aspects of academics' professional lives. The study contributes to understanding how digital platforms can be harnessed to support and enhance academics' well-being, satisfaction, and resilience. Future research should explore longitudinal impacts and the effectiveness of specific online community practices. Practical recommendations include developing targeted university policies to leverage online communities for professional development and well-being initiatives, ensuring that these digital tools are effectively integrated into academics' professional lives.

THE ROLE OF JAVANESE CULTURE ON COMMUNICATION PATTERNS IN THE CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT

This study explores the role of Javanese culture on communication patterns among communication science students in campus environments. Javanese culture, rich in values such as harmony, respect, and empathy, plays a pivotal role in shaping interactions among Javanese communication science students. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data was gathered through observations and in-depth interviews with Javanese communication science students at one of campuses in Java. Findings reveal that Javanese communication science students tend to engage in subtle communication and avoid direct conflicts, reflecting their efforts to maintain harmony in daily interactions. The formal and respectful communication patterns observed in their interactions with professors or senior peers also underscore their reverence for social hierarchies ingrained in Javanese culture. Furthermore, Javanese students demonstrate adeptness in adapting to multicultural environments, adjusting their communication styles without compromising their cultural values. Despite technological advances and the influence of social media, traditional Javanese cultural values persist in their online interactions, indicating cultural resilience amidst modernization. This study highlights the significance of cultural education in preserving Javanese cultural identity among students and enhancing understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity on campus. It provides insights into local cultural dynamics within the context of higher education and its relevance in an increasingly interconnected global era.

Practicing Netiquette in Online Communication Between Students and Professors in Higher Education: A Systematic Review

The main objective of this research is to perform an in-depth analysis of current online behaviors and desired netiquette rules among students and teachers in higher education institutions. The pervasive integration of technology into education, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has necessitated a shift from traditional face-to-face learning to online platforms. This transition highlights the importance of netiquette— a set of guidelines for etiquette on the internet. The systematic literature review design was performed to critically and analytically explore the findings of the previously published studies on the topic. A total of 8 peer-reviewed articles passed the inclusion criteria and were reviewed to extract data for the analysis. A PRISMA model was used to conduct the systematic literature review process. The review conducted in this study examines the extent to which these norms are understood and adhered to within higher education, particularly focusing on communication between students and professors. The research encapsulates the evolution of online communication practices and identifies the challenges and opportunities arising from the reliance on digital platforms in academic settings. By synthesizing existing literature, the study reveals gaps in knowledge and practice regarding netiquette, underscoring the necessity for more targeted research to develop effective strategies for fostering positive and productive online interactions. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to the enhancement of communication practices in digital learning environments, thereby improving the overall quality of education delivered online.

Gestational diabetes knowledge improves with interactive online training modules

BackgroundThe risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is up to 50% among women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, diabetes education during and after pregnancy is limited. To bridge this gap, our team developed four training modules on GDM for nurses and community health workers. This pilot study assesses changes in knowledge, self-efficacy for providing diabetes education, attitudes, and intentions to recommend diabetes prevention before and after training completion.MethodsInteractive online modules were disseminated to clinical staff providing care for women with GDM in the United States. Optional pre- and post-training surveys were conducted to gauge the effectiveness of the modules. GDM knowledge (scoring 0–100) was evaluated with a 23 question assessment with total score and individual module scores reported [(# correct/# total)*100]. Self-efficacy for providing diabetes education (scoring 1–10) was evaluated with a 15-question survey and intention to recommend diabetes prevention (scoring 1–5) was assessed with an 8-item survey. Attitudes were assessed with three subscales of the Diabetes Attitude Scale (scoring 1–5). Changes in scores on each scale before and after training are reported using non-parametric Wilcoxon matched-pair signed rank tests.ResultsEighty-two individuals completed baseline evaluation and 20 individuals accessed all modules and completed post-training assessments. Among those completing the training, improvement was noted in GDM knowledge [56.5 (16.0) v. 78.3 (22.0), p < 0.001], self-efficacy for providing diabetes education [6.60 (2.73) v. 9.33 (0.87), p < 0.001], attitudes toward the value of tight control [4.07 (0.79) v. 4.43 (0.86), p = 0.003], and intentions to recommend diabetes prevention measures [4.81 (0.63) v. 5.00 (0.00), p = 0.009)].ConclusionsCompletion of our interactive online modules improved knowledge, intention to recommend diabetes prevention, self-efficacy to provide diabetes education, and attitudes toward the value of tight control among individuals caring for women with GDM.Trial registrationThis study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov, identifier: NCT04474795.

Enhancing engineering students’ satisfaction with online learning: factors, framework, and strategies

IntroductionThe learning experience has undergone significant changes recently, particularly with the adoption of advanced technology and online lectures to address challenges such as pandemics. In fields like engineering, where hands-on classes are essential, the online learning environment plays a crucial role in shaping students’ experiences and satisfaction.MethodsThis study aimed to explore the key factors affecting engineering students’ satisfaction with online learning. A structured survey was administered to 263 students across various engineering disciplines and academic levels, all of whom had experienced both in-person learning before the pandemic and online learning during the pandemic. Factor analysis and multiple linear regression were employed to analyze the data.ResultsThe analysis identified interactions, services, and technology as the main factors positively influencing online learning satisfaction. The regression analysis further revealed that students’ satisfaction is significantly dependent on the availability and quality of online learning services, assessment and interaction tools, and technology.DiscussionThis study highlights the critical factors that enhance engineering students’ satisfaction with online learning. It offers strategies for educators to improve online learning environments, emphasizing the importance of quality services, assessment, and interaction tools. These findings can guide the development of more effective online learning experiences in engineering education.

MOY 1 - The Emergency General Surgeon: what should their future operative role be, and how can an EGS post be more attractive?

Abstract Aims Determine the desired future operative role of dedicated Emergency General Surgery (EGS) surgeons in the United Kingdom (UK) and the Republic of Ireland (ROI), and how to improve the attractiveness of an EGS post. Methods A live interactive online survey, designed and endorsed by ASGBI, was completed by attendees at two ASGBI conferences in 2023. The study was conducted according to CHERRIES and exempt from REC according to HRA. Consent was obtained from study participants, who were asked using a Likert scale which operations a dedicated EGS surgeon should perform and how an EGS post could be more attractive. Results The survey was completed by 156/371 eligible participants, of which 132 responses were analysed once duplicate responses (n=16), and non-UK/ROI respondents (n=8), were excluded. Participants included consultants (34%), surgical trainees (42%), and other doctors (23%), 61% were male and 39% were female, aged between 25 and 69. Respondents stated the desired future operative role of EGS surgeons included most EGS operations, including for torso trauma. Few believed EGS surgeons should perform emergency colonic resection for cancer (49%) or inflammatory bowel disease (37%), gastric volvulus (34%), bariatric complications (26%), or Boerhaaves (28%). The vast majority agreed that EGS posts could be improved by including elective general and subspecialty operating lists, continuing professional development, minimally-invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) opportunities, rest days post-on-call, family-friendly hours, EGS ambulatory and follow-up clinics, and major trauma responsibility. Conclusions EGS surgeons should operate on the majority of EGS patients. Job plans that include elective operating, professional development, and patient follow-up may improve recruitment and retention.

WP4.19 - The Emergency General Surgeon: what is their current operative role?

Abstract Aims Determine the current operative role of dedicated Emergency General Surgery (EGS) surgeons in the United Kingdom (UK) and the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Methods A live interactive online survey, designed and endorsed by ASGBI, was completed by attendees at two ASGBI conferences in 2023. The study was conducted according to CHERRIES and exempt from REC according to HRA. Consent was obtained from study participants, who were asked which surgeons usually perform the most common EGS operations in their hospital. Results The survey was completed by 156/371 eligible participants, of which 132 responses were analysed once duplicate responses (n=16), and non-UK/ROI respondents (n=8), were excluded. Participants included consultants (34%), surgical trainees (42%), and other doctors (23%), 61% were male and 39% were female, aged between 25 and 69. The general surgeon on-call – or a dedicated EGS surgeon, where such service exists – operates on the majority of EGS pathology through an un-selected take. A surgeon with the relevant sub-specialty interest usually operates on emergency non-traumatic complex upper gastrointestinal or colorectal pathology. These include emergency colonic resections for cancer or inflammatory bowel disease, and operations for gastric volvulus, bariatric complications, and Boerhaaves. Acute cholecystectomy forms a major part of a dedicated EGS surgeon’s practice. Conclusions Dedicated EGS surgeons deliver a wide variety of operations, in addition to the peri-operative management of acute surgical patients. Future curriculum design and NHS workforce planning should reflect this service delivery pattern, should EGS become a recognised specialty interest.

Digital ethics of care and digital citizenship in UK primary schools: Children as interviewers

ABSTRACT A digital ethics of care (DEC) framework was initially developed with adolescents (11 to 18-years) to provide an infrastructure for understanding their digital social and emotional literacy, focusing on their ability to understand emotions and build respectful relationships online. In this study, we explore how that framework can be utilised with younger children aged 10 to 11-years-old. All children in class participated in a teacher-led lesson to develop skills and an understanding of interviewing. From this class, 18 children participated and interviewed each other in pairs. The interviews were conducted using a semi-structured approach consisting of question clusters framed around digital media use, wellbeing, social interactions online, empathy and kindness, and actions following negative behaviours. Using thematic analysis, four themes were developed: 1) recognising DEC in practice, 2) emotional consequences and coping with online adversity, 3) need for education on digital citizenship, and 4) developing a Digital Ethics of Care lesson. The results of the study led to the framework being refined. From this, a toolkit with lesson plans was created which was founded in the children’s contributions and ideas for use by schools.