Social Media Research Articles

Structural Equation Model of the Variables Affecting the Online Shopping Behavior of Generation-Y

Purpose: 1) To investigate the goodness of fit of the SEM of the variables affecting the online shopping behavior of Generation Y in Thailand. 2) To develop the SEM of the variables affecting the online shopping behavior of Generation Y in Thailand. 3) To study the direct, indirect, and total impact of the variables affecting the online shopping behavior of Generation Y in Thailand. Method: The research applied the literature review, and an analysis on the concepts, theories and principles. This mixed research methodology included a quantitative research method, questionnaire, qualitative research method, and in-depth interview to verify the results from the quantitative research. To collect the data, 300 sets of questionnaires were distributed to consumers who had purchased online products. Data were analyzed by content analysis and Structural Equation Model (SEM). Results and Discussions: The research results showed that the hypothesis test results supported the research with statistical significance. The purchase intention had the highest impact on the online shopping behavior, followed by customer innovation and perceived usefulness, respectively. The structural equation model (SEM) of the purchase intention, customer innovation and perceived usefulness had a direct impact on the online shopping behavior of Generation Y, which was consistent with the goodness of fit. Furthermore, consumers wanted to try new things, needed more challenges, and loved using the Internet that was very convenient and saved their time searching for products. They were able to do the transaction on one platform via social media, which facilitated the entrepreneur to build a business opportunity for efficient competitiveness Research Implications: At present, the Internet has a crucial role and influence on people’s daily routines in terms of learning, studying, entertainment, and business. Thus, the use of the Internet will continue to increase; such as, to search for competitor’s information, communicate with customers, and conduct public relations. The use of the Internet also conveniently facilitates communication and access to new target groups. Everyone can purchase or search for a new product easily from anywhere worldwide at a low cost and in a short time, which greatly generates business opportunities. However, the increase of purchasing via social media has resulted in increased usage of Facebook Pay, Instagram Shopping, and LINE OA (Official Account). Originality/Value: Therefore, social media has simplified the buyer's ability to buy products and be able to do transactions on one platform. Nevertheless, the key concern is the more expensive advertisement costs due to the higher number of sellers. For example, Omnichannel is an inclusive buy-and-sell platform that most retailers are interested in because it supports business growth and provides more payment channels to the customer. Once the customer has the perceived usefulness, enjoys using it, and would like to try the new products via the purchase intention, it would affect the online shopping behavior.

Analyzing the Influence of Social Media Marketing Strategies on Consumer Purchase Intentions Mediated by Trust

This study investigates the influence of social media marketing strategies on consumer purchase intentions, emphasizing the mediating role of consumer trust. With the increasing reliance on social media platforms for brand engagement, understanding how marketing efforts shape consumer views has become essential. A quantitative approach was employed, utilizing a survey of 100 social media users to gather data on their experiences with various marketing strategies, levels of trust, and purchase intentions of brands. The analysis revealed that social media marketing strategies have a direct effect on consumer purchase intentions (β = 0.21) but significantly amplify their impact through trust (indirect effect β = 0.34). The results indicate that higher levels of trust in brands enhance positive consumer purchase intentions, corroborating existing literature that highlights the importance of trust in marketing effectiveness. The study recommends that brands prioritize trust-building initiatives, including transparent communication and authentic engagement, to improve consumer purchase intentions. As social media continues to evolve, the findings suggest that fostering trust will be increasingly crucial for brands aiming to connect with discerning consumers. Future research should explore the impact of emerging technologies on consumer trust within social media marketing contexts.

The role of social media data in enhancing B2B omni-channel marketing efforts in small businesses

PurposeThis paper explores the role of social media data in enhancing business-to-business (B2B) omni-channel marketing (OCM) efforts in small businesses. B2B marketing strategy is explored through the lens of each business’s marketing manager’s insights. A novel social media data visualisation tool for B2B marketing campaign development is presented, adding contextualisation to OCM activities.Design/methodology/approachThis exploratory study uses the qualitative interview method to consider the research question: what role does social media data play in enhancing B2B marketing efforts across the omni-channel in small businesses? The paper presents the findings of 25 in-depth interviews with small business marketing managers from a range of B2B industries, guided by a literature-informed interview template. Insights are developed using an open coding approach via traditional pen and paper methods, underpinned by thematic analysis.FindingsSmall business marketing managers recognise the importance of social media data in enhancing B2B OCM efforts in their organisations. They acknowledge online marketing channels as paths to enhanced brand awareness and relationship building and recognise social media’s growing influence on B2B customers’ decision-making processes. There is a dichotomy between the professed importance of social media data and its use among some small business marketing managers in their B2B OCM efforts. Others are capturing these data and integrating it with other data resources, thereby embedding social media data as a strategic resource within their business. Findings indicate that it is only in these small businesses that OCM strategy is evolving to meet B2B customer expectations of an integrated OCM experience, informed by social media data, across all channels and touchpoints.Research limitations/implicationsThis work is of particular interest to marketing managers within small businesses seeking to improve their B2B marketing efforts across the omni-channel. It is of value to all B2B enterprises, given the rate of advancement of the B2B social media marketing landscape.Originality/valueRecognised as an emerging area, research relating to B2B OCM is limited. This paper provides empirical data on OCM efforts in small businesses from a B2B perspective and considers the role of social media data in enhancing marketing efforts across the omni-channel. Underpinned by social network theory and based on insights gleaned from fieldwork, a social media data visualisation tool is presented, the first of its kind in this sphere.

Analysis of flows in social media uncovers a new multi-step model of information spread

Abstract Since the advent of the internet, communication paradigms have continuously evolved, resulting in a present-day landscape where the dynamics of information dissemination have undergone a complete transformation compared to the past. In this study, we challenge the conventional two-step flow communication model, a long-standing paradigm in the field. Our approach introduces a more intricate multi-step and multi-actor model that effectively captures the complexities of modern information spread. We test our hypothesis by examining the spread of information on the Twitter platform. Our findings support the multi-step and multi-actor model hypothesis. In this framework, influencers (individuals with a significant presence in social media) emerge as new central figures and partially take on the role previously attributed to opinion leaders. However, this does not apply to opinion leaders who adapt and reaffirm their influential position on social media, here defined as opinion-leading influencers. Additionally, we note a substantial number of adopters directly accessing information sources, suggesting a potential decline in influence in both opinion leaders and influencers. Finally, we found distinctions in the diffusion patterns of left-/right-leaning groups, indicating variations in the underlying structure of information dissemination across different ideologies.

Technology adoption, competitiveness and new market access among SMEs in Ghana: What are the limiting factors?

A total of 300 SMEs including beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of the Presidential Business Development Support initiative were surveyed in Ghana using structured interview questionnaires. The survey objectives were to (i) investigate the extent of adoption of emerging technologies including the Internet of Things (IoTs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), e-Commerce, Mobile Banking and Social Media among SMEs in Ghana; (ii) identify the main barriers to adoption of emerging technologies; and (iii) explore any association between the level of technology adoption by SMEs and access to new markets. Close to 60% of the beneficiary SMEs had adopted less sophisticated technologies such as social media, mobile banking and e-commerce as compared to 50% adoption among non-beneficiaries. Overall, less than 5% of the SMEs surveyed were using sophisticated technologies such AI and IoTs. This study adopted the Technological-Organizational-Environmental (TOE) framework to identify barriers to technology adoption. The top five barriers to technology adoption by the SMEs identified from this study are: (i) lack of finance, (ii) insufficient government support, (iii) lack of absorptive capability, (iv) insufficient demand and (v) poor technology enabling infrastructure. The beneficiary SMEs had better access to sub-regional (West Africa), regional (Africa) and international markets than the non-beneficiaries. Logit regression results showed that the most significant factors positively influencing technology adoption are Education, Marketing Skills, Human Resource Skills, Gender, Market Opportunities and Financial Improvement. There was a positive but weak correlation between technology adoption and access to new market opportunities.

Exploring patients’ views and experiences of side-effects and how they are reported, a focus group study

Abstract Introduction Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are an increasing health concern, causing considerable physical, psychological and economic impacts1,2. The yellow card scheme (YCS) is the UK’s spontaneous reporting system, allowing patients and healthcare professionals to report ADRs (3). Research has shown that patient reports could provide a beneficial insight into real-world situations and are a key aspect of pharmacovigilance2. Despite this, under-reporting by patients remains a significant issue that needs to be addressed1. Aim This study aimed to explore views and experiences of the public regarding ADR reporting. Methods Following approval from Cardiff University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Ethics Committee, adult members of the South Wales public who had experienced an ADR (“side-effect”) were invited via social media outlets such as Facebook and WhatsApp to participate in an online (Zoom) focus group to discuss their ADR experience (including whether they reported) and knowledge and views on the YCS. Healthcare professionals were excluded from the study. Written informed consent and demographic information via a short online survey were obtained prior to the focus group. The focus groups were audio and video recorded via Zoom and discussions were transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis was executed to identify fundamental themes. Results Four focus groups, involving 11 participants took place. The sample consisted mostly of females between 18-30 years of age from an ethnic minority background. Themes identified were lack of knowledge of ADRs and the YCS; support and barriers to reporting ADRs and strategies for improving YCS reporting. There was a lack of knowledge of ADRs with uncertainty over the concept of “side-effect” and varying degrees of understanding on the topic. All participants had suffered side-effects that were severe in nature, affecting them physically, psychologically or cosmetically. None of the participants had any concept of the YCS and side-effect reporting. Despite this, participants felt reporting of side-effects was vital to ensure the safety of medications and prevention of patient harm. The majority of participants sought support for side-effects from a General Practitioner (GP) or community pharmacist, although difficulties accessing GP appointments was a barrier. Strategies suggested for increasing awareness of YCS to increase ADR reporting were use of posters, social media, QR codes, online prompts, coffee mornings and letters sent home to parents from schools. Discussion / Conclusion If patients are unsure around the concept of a side-effect and don’t know about the YCS, reporting rates will continue to fall. Although it is recognised that the sample is not fully representative of the Welsh population, this small-scale exploratory study has nevertheless identified some possible concerns but also some opportunities to engage patients in ADR reporting. Patient education by healthcare professionals on side-effects, alongside increased promotion of the YCS via social media and advertisements in healthcare settings are key opportunities to increase patients’ awareness and understanding of ADRs and ADR reporting. Further research is essential to understand the extent of these issues and also to investigate how healthcare professionals can facilitate this process. Follow-up studies are planned.

Visualising the universe: The role of pictures in mediating people's relationship with outer space

The last decade has witnessed an increased interest in outer space among non-expert citizens of London; many astronomical societies have expanded, and telescopes and astronomical magazines have experienced pronounced growth in sales. Anthropology, as a discipline focused on the study of human culture, has recently provided new insights into the cultural dimensions involved in contemporary experiences of the universe. After spending two months among amateur astronomers at two London astronomical societies, I argue that pictures – understood from a material culture perspective – play a key role in shaping people's relationship with the universe. This relationship is currently influenced by new technologies that offer more accessible ways to capture and share pictures of the skies. Simultaneously, new social media apps have opened new digital platforms for sharing outer space pictures, introducing innovative visual ways to engage with it.

Examining the clinical role and educational preparation of heart failure nurses across Europe. A survey of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions (ACNAP) of the ESC

AimsTo describe the clinical practice and educational preparation of heart failure (HF) nurses across Europe and determine the key differences between countries.Methods and resultsA survey tool was developed, in English, by the Heart Failure Association Patient Care committee of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). It was translated into eight languages, before electronically disseminated by nurse ambassadors, presidents of HF national societies and through social media. A total of 837 nurses involved in the daily care of patients with HF from 15 countries completed the survey. Most nurses, 78% (n = 395) worked within a hospital outpatient setting, and 51% (n = 431) had access to a specialized HF multidisciplinary team. Nurses performed a range of activities including patient education to promote self‐care, virtual and in‐person symptom monitoring. A third had more than 5‐year experience in cardiac care and 22% (n = 182) prescribed HF medications. There was a significant correlation between HF nurses that prescribed HF medications and access to a specialist multidisciplinary team (p = 0.04). A small number of nurses, mainly from Belgium, supported invasive monitoring (n = 68, 8%) with 14% (n = 120) of mostly Danish nurses supporting exercise programmes. The majority of nurses surveyed were committed to further academic professional development, with 41% (n = 343) having completed a HF course.ConclusionThe role of the HF nurse varies across Europe, however involvement in patient education, symptom monitoring and follow‐up remain core to their practice. In specific activities including the prescribing of HF medications and involvement in invasive monitoring, practice has advanced with collaboration in the multidisciplinary team. Consequently, harmonization of education, training and career pathways are required to standardize HF care aligned with expert guidelines across Europe.

Healthcare workers' views on antibiotic prescribing and stewardship during the COVID-19 pandemic at an NHS Foundation Trust in England: a cross-sectional survey

Abstract Introduction Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rapidly escalating global health challenge, projected to cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050.1 In response, the UK Government developed a five-year national action plan, 'Confronting Antimicrobial Resistance 2024 to 2029,' aimed at optimising antimicrobial use and implementing antimicrobial stewardship.2 The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the healthcare system, jeopardising public health and causing millions of deaths worldwide. The pandemic has exacerbated AMR due to increased antimicrobial therapy and misuse.3 Aim This study explores healthcare workers’ (HCWs) views towards antibiotic prescribing, AMS and AMR during the COVID-19 pandemic in a UK secondary care setting. Methods This cross-sectional study employed an online questionnaire survey conducted at an NHS Foundation Trust in the East of England, targeting doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. The total eligible participants comprised 5,636 doctors, 2,140 nurses, and 206 pharmacists. Data collection was carried out using Qualtrics XM from 12 June to 13 September 2023. Inclusion criteria required healthcare workers (HCWs) to be adults aged 25 or older, registered with relevant professional bodies, and employed during the pandemic. Data analysis involved both descriptive statistics and qualitative methods to interpret participants’ open-ended responses to the question, “What lessons have been learnt during the COVID-19 pandemic?” This study was registered under ISRCTN number 14825813 and received ethical approval from the University of Hertfordshire Ethics and Health Research Authority (HRA) (REC reference number 22/EM/0161). The Citizens Senate reviewed the study protocol to ensure public and patient involvement. Results A total of 23 HCWs completed the survey, including 12 pharmacists, nine doctors, and two nurses. The survey included an open-text section where respondents shared lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among pharmacists, 75% (9 out of 12) identified inappropriate antibiotic use without clinical justification as a significant issue, and 67% (8 out of 12) reported an increase in healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). Additionally, 83% (10 out of 12) noted the positive impact of technology platforms and antibiotic reviews on implementing effective and sustainable AMS. Among doctors, 89% (8 out of 9) emphasised the need for reliable information dissemination, observing that social media often overshadowed evidence-based guidelines. Additionally, 78% (7 out of 9) stressed the importance of staying informed about resistance patterns and antibiotic prescribing trends. All nurses highlighted the significance of AMR awareness and reported that mental fatigue affected decision-making during the pandemic. Discussion/Conclusion This study highlights the essential role of technology platforms in enhancing antimicrobial stewardship practices and the necessity of disseminating reliable information to counter misinformation. The pandemic highlighted the need for clear guidelines and robust communication strategies to support clinical practices. However, this study has limitations, including a small sample size of 23 participants, which may affect the generalisability of the findings. Future research should include larger, more diverse samples to validate these findings and assess specific AMS interventions. The study also revealed the importance of resilient AMS implementation to optimise antibiotic use and improve patient outcomes. Achieving this requires ongoing AMS education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and adaptive strategies to effectively mitigate antimicrobial resistance.

Establishing a biologics and biosimilars committee/network: assessing educational requirements of pharmacy and other healthcare professionals

Abstract Introduction Successful professional networking involves shared, mutually beneficial interactions between individuals and/or individuals and groups1. Biologics and biosimilar medicines prescribing is rapidly evolving with an increasing number of clinical indications in healthcare2,3. Despite their importance, the absence of a structured national network dedicated to these complex therapies has left a gap in professional education and resource sharing among pharmacists. Recognising the necessity for a cohesive support system, this work explores the learning and professional needs of pharmacists regarding biologics and biosimilars and the potential development of a national pharmacy network to address these gaps. Aim The survey aimed to explore the educational needs and preference for a network and/or committee for pharmacy and other healthcare professionals focused on biologics and biosimilars medicines. Methods An electronic survey was developed and deployed for pharmacy and other healthcare professionals involved in the management of biologics and biosimilars via email cascade and social media, 12th February - 6th March 2023. The survey explored the preferred structure of the proposed group; formal committee and/or informal network, what the group would deliver, and any educational needs for members. The survey included questions about the respondent’s roles, sectors of work, regions and their clinical area(s). The open text responses were themed. The NHS health Research Authority tool was used to identify this project as service improvement and development, therefore did not require ethical approval. Results The responses received were from 46 pharmacists, 1 pharmacy technician, 15 doctors and nurses and 4 participants whose roles were unknown, working across multiple sectors; hospital, community, industry, and academia with representation from the devolved nations (n=3) and internationally (n=1). Most respondents expressed a need for a dedicated network and committee n=52 (79%), n=10 (15%) formal network, and n=4 (6%) informal committee. Common themes in response to what the group should deliver and educational needs included; harmonisation of approaches to guidelines and policies, pathway design, reduction in unwarranted variation (68%); platform to share new ideas, knowledge and peer advice (44%); strategy and leadership in service delivery and promotion of best practice and cost training, horizon scanning (29%); working collaboratively to produce multi-centre research projects (24%); to create a structured training programme for health care professionals (9%). Discussion/Conclusion The survey results highlight a gap in the current educational and professional support systems for PP’s concerning biologics and biosimilar medicines. The identified learning needs point to a strong demand for a structured network that can provide targeted education, share best practices and facilitate professional networking. The expertise within the group can also create formal eLearning programmes for healthcare professionals. This work serves as a foundational step towards the development this network, highlighting the critical areas of focus and the collective interest of the pharmacy community in bridging these gaps. The network should also facilitate communication and collaboration across different sectors, fostering a more cohesive and informed pharmacy community. Such an innovative network would not only enhance individual competency but also contribute to the overall advancement of pharmaceutical care in this specialised area.

Exploring Rural, Black Women’s Lived Experiences With Physical Activity and Nutrition: A Photo-Elicitation Study

Eastern North Carolina (ENC) residents have higher rates of type 2 diabetes, lower life expectancy, less physical activity (PA), and higher food insecurity than the rest of North Carolina. Black individuals in ENC may face health disparities due to systemic and societal barriers to PA and a nutritious diet; modifiable behaviors that may improve overall health. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of rural Black women who live in ENC and who meet the criteria for overweight and obesity in the context of PA and healthful diet promotion. Photo-elicitation was used to explore this population’s specific experiences with PA and nutrition, including barriers and facilitators, through photos and focus groups. Participants (N = 14; 43.5 ± 8.7 years old; body mass index (BMI) = 34.6 ± 5.9 kg/m2) were Black women in the rural Southeastern United States. Recruitment strategies included community outreach, listservs, social media, and word of mouth. Using photos submitted, our team conducted focus groups and completed content analyses to identify themes to tailor the development of a future health promotion program for Black women. Overarching themes were (a) Reframing the Mindset, (b) Accountability, and (c) Cultural Relativity. Findings demonstrate that Black women living in rural areas desire culturally relevant PA and nutrition programming focusing on healthy lifestyles versus weight loss. Future practice and research should utilize these findings to develop and examine the health impact of a health promotion program designed for Black women by Black women on PA levels, diet quality, and quality of life.

Flowslide on a fill slope triggered by a burst water pipe: a case history

This paper presents a case study in Hong Kong of a flowslide occurred on a fill slope triggered by a burst water pipe buried near the slope crest. The onset of failure was recorded by nearby pedestrians and the video was immediately posted in social media which had caught noticeable public attention. The flowslide resulted in a temporary closure of an undermined road section at the slope crest. The debris travelled over 500 m down the natural hillside within a country park. No casualties were reported. History of the site was studied. Information was collected to establish the chronological order of events happened before the flowslide. Post-landslide investigations including field mapping in the source area and along the debris trail, ground investigations, and a fluid-coupled numerical study were undertaken to examine the probable cause and mechanism of the failure. It is diagnosed that the high mobility of this landslide would be caused by the saturation of a loose fill layer in the slope due to water egress from the burst pipe which in turn might have triggered a static liquefaction of the loose fill. Lessons learnt from this case history and measures to minimize similar landslide hazard on other fill slopes with similar settings are discussed.

Influence Reasoning Capabilities of Large Language Models in Social Environments

We ask whether state-of-the-art large language models can provide a viable alternative to human annotators for detecting and explaining behavioural influence online. Working with a large corpus of online interactions retrieved from the social media platform Mastodon, we cross-examine a dataset containing 11,000 LLM influence labels and explanations across nine state-of-the-art large language models from 312 scenarios. We use a range of resolution categories and four stages of shot prompting to further measure the importance of context to language model performance. We also consider the impact of model architecture, and how social media content and features from the explanation impact model labelling accuracy. Our experiment shows that whilst most large language models struggle to identify the correct framing of influence from an interaction, at lower label resolutions, models like Flan and GPT-4 Turbo perform with an accuracy of 70%-80%, demonstrating encouraging potential for future social influence identification and explanation, and contributing to our understanding of the general social reasoning capabilities of large language models.

The crime of cyber blackmail in the era of artificial intelligence

Cyber blackmail is defined as a transgression which occurs when an individual or group intimidates the victim by threatening to expose his/her personal information on social media. This form of criminal activity, which has emerged with technological advancement, particularly in the artificial intelligence (AI) domain, is not confined to any specific region or nation. The unrestricted reach of cyber blackmail necessitates the constant revision and evaluation of the laws regulating it so that these laws maintain their effectiveness when changes occur in the manner in which this offence is committed. This study comparatively analysed the validity of current cyber blackmail laws in Iraq and Malaysia through discussions emphasizing the association between cyber blackmail and AI, as well as the rules and regulations formulated to curb this crime. The systematic, comprehensive and comparative method employed for this study scrutinized the issue of cyber blackmail from all perspectives. It revealed that the will of Iraqi authorities falls short when it comes to the implementation of effective measures aimed at reining in the prevalence of cyber blackmail. These measures included reviewing the penal code or drafting laws directed at combating IT crimes. The crime of cyber blackmail involves the instilling of anxiety in the victim, with the purpose of compelling him/her to succumb to the demands of the blackmailer. We conclude this study with proposals aimed at curtailing the occurrence of cyber blackmail.

Evaluation of the ENIGMA mentoring pilot; an approach to tackle leadership inequalities for ethnically diverse female pharmacists in general practice

Abstract Introduction Diversity in leadership positively impacts teams and productivity yet remains limited in pharmacy leadership. The NHS Pharmacy Workforce Race Equality Standard (PWRES) report1 highlights significant underrepresentation of ethnically diverse pharmacists in senior NHS Trust roles (Agenda for Change band 8a and above) compared to their representation in the general pharmacist workforce. This disparity is particularly pronounced for female pharmacists from ethnically diverse backgrounds, who make up 31.9% of all pharmacists but only 24.2% of those in band 8a and above, with a steep decline from 27.6% at band 8a to just 5.9% at band 91,2. To begin addressing this, we piloted the ENhancing leadershIp amonGst ethnically diverse feMale phArmacists (ENIGMA) mentoring scheme in general practice within Leeds. Aim The aim was to determine whether ENIGMA mentoring relationships supported leadership skill development, fostered networking, and developed authentic allies. We assessed the success of the pilot by exploring the perspectives of mentors and mentees and identifying their satisfaction with the scheme. Methods We recruited 18 experienced female senior leaders as mentors for ENIGMA. Mentee recruitment was conducted through dissemination of a flyer via social media, Microsoft Teams, email, and citywide meetings, offering places to the first 18 pharmacists who expressed interest, with no selection process. Mentors and mentees were paired based on mentee goals and mentor expertise. Mentees met their mentor 3 times in a 6-month period. Evaluation was undertaken through Microsoft Forms questionnaires completed anonymously by both mentors and mentees exploring how they experienced ENIGMA, benefits of the scheme, if they felt the scheme had enabled leadership skill development and how it had (or anticipated it would) impact(ed) on career development for the mentee. Ethical approval was deemed unnecessary as this was a service evaluation. Neither author-affiliated organisation is associated with the project. Results Of 18 mentoring pairs, 13 successfully completed the 6-month program. For five pairs, mentees did not establish contact. 62% of mentors responded to the questionnaire. 88% felt a positive impact on their mentoring skills and described a noticeable increase in mentee confidence and career focus. 100% of mentors would recommend the scheme. For mentees, 62% responded. 88% were ‘most satisfied’ with the experience and 88% felt their leadership skills improved because of participating. 75% met specific goals and 88% commented particularly on positive impact of the scheme. 100% of mentees would recommend ENIGMA to others. Discussion/conclusion The pilot was a great success, impacting positively on mentors and mentees. All responding participants would recommend it to others. Mentors and mentees expressed some challenges: finding a mutual time for meetings, and support from employers to use work time for meetings. Questionnaires were not returned by 38% of participants, which is a potential limitation. An identified improvement is to offer mentors an alternative mentee if their original mentee does not make contact. Offer of an annual ENIGMA cohort will continue in Leeds. Additionally, a second pilot is planned in another Integrated Care Board (ICB) to establish how ENIGMA could work in a different area, and if successful, we intend to share this model nationally.

Examining the e-cigarette scenario based on distribution, availability, marketing, and banning: A GIS-Based qualitative study in Bangladesh

Background Globally, over 81 million people use e-cigarettes, and the majority of them are young adults. Using e-cigarettes causes different types of adverse health effects both in adults and elderly people. Over time, using e-cigarettes has detrimental consequences on lung function, brain development and numerous other illnesses. Methods This study employed a mixed-methods conducted between June and September 2023, comprising two phases: Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping of available e-cigarette point-of-sale (POS) locations and conducting 15 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with e-cigarette retailers, along with 5 key informant interviews (KIIs) involving tobacco control activists and policy experts. ArcGIS was employed for spatial analysis, creating distribution and type maps, and buffer and multi-buffer ring analyses were conducted to assess proximity to hospitals and academic institutions. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics for GIS mapping and qualitative analysis for interview transcripts, utilizing a priori codebook and thematic analysis. Results A total of 276 POS were mapped in the entire Dhaka city. About 55 POS were found within 100m distance from academic institutions in Dhaka city, which offers the easy accessibility of young generations to e-cigarettes. The younger generation is becoming the major target for e-cigarettes because of their alluring flavors, appealing looks, and variation in flavors. Sellers have been using different marketing tactics such as postering, offering discounts and using internet marketing on social media. Moreover, they try to convince the customers by saying that e-cigarettes are ‘not harmful’ or ‘less harmful’. However, retailers were mostly taking e-cigarettes from local wholesalers or distributors. Customers buy these products both from in-store and online services. Due to the absence of laws and regulations on e-cigarettes in Bangladesh, the availability, marketing, and selling of e-cigarettes are increasing alarmingly. Conclusion E-cigarette retail shops are mostly surrounded by academic institutions, and it is expanding. Besides, frequent exposure, easy accessibility, and tactful promotion encourage the younger generations to consume e-cigarettes. The government should take necessary control measures on manufacturing, storage, advertising, promotion, sponsorship, marketing, distribution, sale, import, and export in order to safeguard the health and safety of young and future generations.

The Essence and Structure of the Concept “Professional Education of Students” Through Social Networks and Digital Media Platforms

The article is devoted to the disclosure of the concept of professional education in the era of digitalization, the importance of media platforms and social networks in preparing students for successful professional activity. Professional education is the basis of the educational process, which plays an important role in the development of society. It concerns not only students’ professional competencies, but also their personal qualities necessary for sustainable development in the conditions of modern economy and social environment. The concept of professional education concerns individuals and has significant implications both at the level of the country and in the global community. The main aspects of the social benefits of professional education are its contribution to the development of the economy, social stability, reduction of social constraints, the possibility for each person to achieve success in professional activities, the formation of civic responsibility and social solidarity. Thus, professional education contributes to the emergence of professionals who can adapt to the changing conditions of the labor market caused by new technologies, innovation and automation. Countries that pay attention to professional education have higher rates of competitiveness on the world stage and ensure stable economic development. Professional education helps to shape social norms and values and to adapt to the challenges of the digital age. Innovations contribute to cultural and economic growth, and professional education helps to develop these qualities in students. The article discusses the objectivity of lecturers’ and students’ interest in media platforms and social networks as new forms of professional education, training and expansion of educational space. The objective regularity and interest of researchers in studying this topic are highlighted.Materials and methods of research. The basis of the study is formed by domestic and foreign, scientific and research, philosophical and pedagogical literature, normative-legal acts, laws and regulations of the Russian Federation in the field of education and upbringing of youth. In the study of sources and materials on this topic, the methods of theoretical analysis were used. The analysis of conceptual and theoretical apparatus, comparison, generalization, synthesis, sample surveys were carried out. The experience of work on professional education in the system of higher education was studied and generalized. A review of published research papers and articles on the topic of professional education using media platforms was made in order to analyze the existing approaches, identify the main trends and determine the prospects for further research.Results. As a result of the study, the fundamental philosophical ideas of upbringing are considered. The aspect of formation of the concepts of “education” and “professional education” is studied; definitions of these terms and their interrelation in civil and moral formation of personality are given. The role of professional education in the training of students as future specialists is reflected. The role of social media in the context of the educational process is highlighted. The experience of social media researchers in professional education and educational process is studied and analyzed, and the rating of these concepts is compiled.Conclusion. The conducted analysis and conclusions of the research in the field of professional education can be used in pedagogical and scientific activities on the problem under consideration. The general and distinctive features of the concepts of “education” and “professional education” are deduced. The relevance of professional education through digital platforms is shown. The research prospects on this topic and social usefulness of professional education through social networks and media platforms within the country and the entire world community are proved.

Social Media and Marketing Performance of Micro, Small And Medium Enterprises: The Moderating Role of Entrepreneurial Competencies

Social Media and Marketing Performance of Micro, Small And Medium Enterprises: The Moderating Role of Entrepreneurial Competencies

The Influence of Faith on the Mental Health of Ukrainian Forced Migrants During the Russian–Ukrainian War: An Exploratory Study via Social Media

The Influence of Faith on the Mental Health of Ukrainian Forced Migrants During the Russian–Ukrainian War: An Exploratory Study via Social Media

Adult sibling relationships and media multiplexity theory

Sibling relationships are among the longest-lasting relationships in people’s lives. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), including voice calls, texting, and social media, help adult siblings keep in touch. The present study tests media multiplexity theory (MMT) in the context of adult sibling relationships. In the first study, a quota sample of American adults completed several name listing tasks to identify their most important relationship partners, ranging from 0 to 16 people, and 29% of participants listed at least one sibling. Multilevel modeling (MLM) results found that emotional closeness between siblings was positively associated with the frequency of phone calls and emails and negatively associated with the frequency of person-to-person media sharing. Showing mixed support for MMT, the number of ICTs used was negatively associated with emotional closeness, but the overall frequency of ICT use was positively associated with closeness. In the second study, a quota sample of American adults identified six of their closest friendships, and siblings constituted 2.9% of friends listed. MLM results found that the frequency of phone calls and text messages between siblings was positively associated with emotional closeness. The number of ICTs used was unrelated to emotional closeness, but the overall frequency of ICT use was positively associated with closeness, showing partial support for MMT. Both studies suggested that the frequency of communicating across ICTs was associated with greater life satisfaction, accounting for sibling closeness.