Tailored Communication Strategies Research Articles

"They Ask Questions, But They Don't Want the Answers"-Perceptions of Clinical Communication Among Veterans Discontinuing Buprenorphine for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder.

Many patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) discontinue treatment prematurely, increasing their risk of opioid-related overdose and death. While patient-centered care is considered the gold standard in treating chronic illness, it may be practiced less frequently in the context of OUD care. Patient-provider communication can influence patients' care experiences, potentially having an impact on treatment retention and care decision-making. This study was conducted at the VA Portland Health Care System from March 2021 to April 2022. We conducted qualitive interviews with patients who had discontinued buprenorphine for the treatment of OUD within the past year. Coding and analysis were guided by inductive qualitative content analysis. Retrospective medical record review identified clinical and demographic characteristics of participants. Twenty patients completed an interview. Participant age ranged from 28 to 74 years (median 63 years). Ninety percent of participants were white and 90% male. Many participants expressed frustration and feelings of disempowerment in OUD care processes. Patients with a history of long-term prescribed opioid use frequently expressed stigmatizing views of OUD, and perceptions of disagreement with providers over diagnosis and care choices. Elderly patients and those with multiple comorbidities expressed confusion over significant aspects of their care, as well as difficulty navigating treatment logistics like appointment requirements and medication dose changes. Some patients reported later restarting buprenorphine in new settings, and described feeling respected and involved in care decisions as a facilitator for continuing treatment. Prioritizing patient-centered communication in OUD treatment could improve the patient experience and potentially support treatment retention. Subgroups of OUD patients, such as those with a history of long-term prescribed opioid use, elderly patients with multiple comorbidities, or those who express stigmatizing medication views, could particularly benefit from tailored communication strategies that address their individual concerns.

Enhancing citizen science impact in environmental monitoring: Targeted engagement strategies with stakeholder groups

Understanding the motivations and benefits of citizen science (CS) participants is critical to the success of environmental science projects that rely on data collection from engaged citizens. Tailored communication with citizen scientists is essential, leading to the need to target specific societal groups for extensive and high-quality data sets. The purpose of the study was to apply marketing concepts such as stakeholder analysis, value proposition canvas (VPC), and key performance indicators (KPIs) to CS projects. The study examined the extent to which these strategies can be applied to CS projects and add value, resulting in improved recruitment and retention of participants, as well as improved project management. The dynamic landscape of CS projects requires adapted business-oriented approaches supporting ongoing participation with high motivation, acknowledging community needs, and recognizing institutional scientists, akin to targeting potential customers. The case study focuses on the CityCLIM initiative, an EU-funded project collecting urban climate data, especially air temperature, using mobile weather stations. The CityCLIM VPC, analyzing stakeholder groups, facilitated tailored communication strategies by analyzing stakeholder groups and highlighting the effectiveness of the CS cycling initiative within the “Stadtradeln” program. Impact KPIs served as a roadmap for strategic refinement, while data quality KPIs identified deficiencies, guiding adjustments to the campaign. Applied marketing tools improved project planning, engagement, and evaluation, demonstrating the potential of this concept. Adapting marketing tools to recruitment and communication strategies benefits CS projects by targeting specific groups. The holistic integration of stakeholder analysis, VPC, and KPIs streamlines project management and creates a framework for sustainable success. This adaptation forms a robust toolkit for CS project coordinators, contributing to effective communication, engagement, and impact assessment. Applying marketing tools significantly increases CS projects’ reach and impact, ensuring long-term success and meaningful scientific contributions.

Emerging Trends in Information-Seeking Behavior for Alpha-Gal Syndrome: Infodemiology Study Using Time Series and Content Analysis.

Alpha-gal syndrome is an emerging allergy characterized by an immune reaction to the carbohydrate molecule alpha-gal found in red meat. This unique food allergy is likely triggered by a tick bite. Cases of the allergy are on the rise, but prevalence estimates do not currently exist. Furthermore, varying symptoms and limited awareness of the allergy among health care providers contribute to delayed diagnosis, leading individuals to seek out their own information and potentially self-diagnose. The study aimed to (1) describe the volume and patterns of information-seeking related to alpha-gal, (2) explore correlations between alpha-gal and lone star ticks, and (3) identify specific areas of interest that individuals are searching for in relation to alpha-gal. Google Trends Supercharged-Glimpse, a new extension of Google Trends, provides estimates of the absolute volume of searches and related search queries. This extension was used to assess trends in searches for alpha-gal and lone star ticks (lone star tick, alpha gal, and meat allergy, as well as food allergy for comparison) in the United States. Time series analyses were used to examine search volume trends over time, and Spearman correlation matrices and choropleth maps were used to explore geographic and temporal correlations between alpha-gal and lone star tick searches. Content analysis was performed on related search queries to identify themes and subcategories that are of interest to information seekers. Time series analysis revealed a rapidly increasing trend in search volumes for alpha-gal beginning in 2015. After adjusting for long-term trends, seasonal trends, and media coverage, from 2015 to 2022, the predicted adjusted average annual percent change in search volume for alpha-gal was 33.78%. The estimated overall change in average search volume was 627%. In comparison, the average annual percent change was 9.23% for lone star tick, 7.34% for meat allergy, and 2.45% for food allergy during this time. Geographic analysis showed strong significant correlations between alpha-gal and lone star tick searches especially in recent years (ρ=0.80; P<.001), with primary overlap and highest search rates found in the southeastern region of the United States. Content analysis identified 10 themes of primary interest: diet, diagnosis or testing, treatment, medications or contraindications of medications, symptoms, tick related, specific sources of information and locations, general education information, alternative words for alpha-gal, and unrelated or other. The study provides insights into the changing information-seeking patterns for alpha-gal, indicating growing awareness and interest. Alpha-gal search volume is increasing at a rapid rate. Understanding specific questions and concerns can help health care providers and public health educators to tailor communication strategies. The Google Trends Supercharged-Glimpse tool offers enhanced features for analyzing information-seeking behavior and can be valuable for infodemiology research. Further research is needed to explore the evolving prevalence and impact of alpha-gal syndrome.

THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS IN FOSTERING CORPORATE REPORTING TRANSPARENCY

This research investigates the multifaceted impact of International Accounting Standards (IAS) on corporate reporting transparency. Amidst the interconnected global business landscape, the study aims to discern global adoption trends, financial reporting quality, stakeholder perceptions, implementation challenges, and the responsiveness of IAS to industry dynamics. Through meticulous analyses spanning the years 2010 to 2020, the research unfolds key insights.The adoption of IAS is a critical facet of global financial reporting, influencing business practices, investor decisions, and regulatory frameworks. Understanding its impact is paramount for policymakers, standard-setters, and businesses navigating an increasingly interconnected and diverse financial ecosystem.This research seeks to comprehensively examine the intricate relationship between IAS and corporate reporting transparency. By delving into adoption trends, financial metrics, stakeholder perspectives, implementation challenges, and update responsiveness, the study aims to provide a holistic view of the global accounting landscape.The analysis reveals a consistent upward trajectory in global IAS adoption, with North America and the Asia-Pacific region playing pivotal roles. Financial reporting quality experiences substantial improvements, particularly benefiting smaller enterprises. Stakeholder perceptions vary across regions and professional roles, emphasizing the need for tailored communication strategies. Implementation challenges, including legal framework complexities and cultural differences, underscore the intricate nature of global adoption. The frequency of IAS updates showcases the adaptability of standards to emerging trends, emphasizing sector-specific implications.This research concludes that IAS significantly influences corporate reporting transparency, offering a standardized framework for diverse business scales. Challenges in implementation necessitate targeted interventions, with recommendations focusing on stakeholder communication, tailored support for small enterprises, and addressing legal and cultural complexities. The adaptability of IAS to industry dynamics reaffirms its role as a responsive and evolving standard. As businesses, regulators, and standard-setters move forward, continuous collaboration and flexibility become imperative for navigating the complexities of a globally harmonized financial reporting landscape.

Harnessing big data for tailored health communication: A systematic review of impact and techniques

In recent years, the convergence of healthcare and big data analytics has opened new avenues for tailored health communication, enabling personalized interventions and improving healthcare outcomes. This systematic review investigates the impact and techniques of harnessing big data for tailored health communication. The review synthesizes findings from diverse studies spanning healthcare sectors, including public health campaigns, clinical interventions, and patient engagement initiatives. It examines the effectiveness of tailored communication strategies in addressing various health challenges, such as chronic diseases, infectious outbreaks, and mental health disorders. Key findings highlight the significant positive impact of personalized health communication on health behavior change, treatment adherence, and patient empowerment. Big data analytics enable the segmentation of diverse populations based on socio-demographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics, facilitating the delivery of targeted messages tailored to individual preferences and needs. Personalization enhances engagement, fosters trust, and motivates individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles and adhere to medical recommendations. Furthermore, the review explores the diverse techniques and technologies employed in harnessing big data for tailored health communication. Machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, and predictive modeling are leveraged to analyze vast datasets, predict health outcomes, and tailor communication messages in real-time. Mobile health applications, social media platforms, and wearable devices serve as channels for delivering personalized interventions and collecting real-time health data. However, the review also identifies challenges and limitations, including privacy concerns, data security risks, and the digital divide. Ethical considerations regarding data collection, consent, and transparency are paramount in ensuring the responsible use of big data in health communication. This systematic review underscores the transformative potential of harnessing big data for tailored health communication. By leveraging advanced analytics and technology, healthcare stakeholders can deliver personalized interventions that resonate with individuals, ultimately driving positive health behavior change and improving healthcare outcomes on a population scale.

Factors Impacting Chinese Older Adults' Intention to Prevent COVID-19 in the Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Era: Survey Study.

Understanding the factors influencing individuals' health decisions is a dynamic research question. Particularly, after China announced the deregulation of the COVID-19 epidemic, health risks escalated rapidly. The convergence of "no longer controlled" viruses and the infodemic has created a distinctive social period during which multiple factors may have influenced people's decision-making. Among these factors, the precautionary intentions of older individuals, as a susceptible health group, deserve special attention. This study aims to examine the intention of older adults to engage in preventive behaviors and the influencing factors, including social, media, and individual factors, within the context of the postepidemic era. Drawing upon the structural influence model of communication, this study tests the potential mediating roles of 3 different types of media exposure between cognitive and structural social capital and protective behavior intention, as well as the moderating role of negative emotions between social capital and media exposure. In this study, a web survey was used to collect self-reported quantitative data on social capital, media exposure, negative emotions, and the intention to prevent COVID-19 among older adults aged ≥60 years (N=399) in China. The results indicate that cognitive social capital significantly influenced protective behavior intention (P<.001), with cell phone exposure playing an additional impactful role (P<.001). By contrast, newspaper and radio exposure and television exposure mediated the influence of structural social capital on protective behavior intention (P<.001). Furthermore, negative emotions played a moderating role in the relationship between cognitive social capital and cell phone exposure (P<.001). This study suggests that using tailored communication strategies across various media channels can effectively raise health awareness among older adults dealing with major pandemics in China, considering their diverse social capital characteristics and emotional states.

Investigating factors underlying why householders remain in at-risk areas during bushfire disaster in Australia

Although most homes lack design and construction features to withstand bushfires, there is a growing trend of householders relocating to bushfire-prone areas. Notably, many bushfire-related fatalities have occurred within proximity, specifically within 100 m of bushland. Therefore, this paper explores the factors that drive householders to remain in at-risk areas, despite the imminent threat of bushfires. Thirty semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants residing in the southeastern region of New South Wales (NSW). The interviews were recorded, transcribed using Otter.AI, and subjected to thematic analysis using NVivo 12 Pro. The findings shed light on why certain householders decided to stay on their properties during the catastrophic 2019/2020 bushfires. Upon analysis, we uncovered thirty-six distinct factors that underlie householders’ choices to remain during bushfires. These factors were categorized into nine groups: protection-related, attitude-related, information-related, operation-related, road-related, shelter-related, finance-related, health-related, and rebuilding-related factors. The study underscores the importance of understanding gender-based differences and pet ownership in bushfire evacuation decisions, emphasizing the need for tailored communication strategies. These findings hold several important implications for research and practice regarding early self-evacuation from bushfires.

When the longer route leads to the point: Circumlocution as a strategy in the male reproductive health clinic in Kenya

BackgroundCommunication is crucial in healthcare settings as patients rely on language to articulate their symptoms and concerns to the doctor. However, language barriers and the sensitive nature of certain subjects often complicate these interactions. Reproductive health is one such subject that poses a challenge in clinical and societal contexts due to its intimate nature. Guided by H·P Grice's Cooperative Principle, maxim of manner, this paper examines the use of circumlocution as a discourse strategy employed by male patients in a doctor-patient interaction in a reproductive health clinic in Kenya. MethodsData is drawn from a qualitative study carried out in reproductive health clinic in Nakuru County, Kenya. Using participant observation as a tool, doctor-patient conversations were audio-recorded and transcribed, and discourse analysis adopted as the guiding framework of analysis. ResultsCircumlocution is prevalent in male patients and female parents when discussing reproductive health issues, regardless of the doctor's gender. The use of circumlocution can hinder clear and direct communication, contradicting Grice's maxim of manner emphasizing the importance of clear and concise communication for effective communication. Circumlocution serves as a euphemistic tool for addressing taboo subject. Its use allows patients to approach reproductive health topic indirectly, reducing embarrassment and discomfort. Major conclusionThere's a need for improved communication strategies in healthcare settings with emphasis on a delicate balance between sensitivity and clarity when discussing reproductive health problems. The work underscores importance of doctors being skilled in deciphering meanings and patients being more direct when discussing reproductive health concerns. Contribution to knowledgeThe study contributes to the broader conversation on effective communication in healthcare especially in men's reproductive health context. It is important to adapt and tailor communication strategies to the cultural and social contexts of male patients and the unique challenges they face.

The Role of Promoting Agricultural and Food Products Certified with European Union Quality Schemes.

This study delves into the effectiveness of digital marketing strategies in promoting local agricultural and food products in Romania, certified with European Union quality schemes. By examining consumer profiles, preferences, and their awareness of EU quality labels, the research uncovers the motivations driving purchasing decisions and the influence of digital marketing on these choices. Utilizing quantitative methods, including a comprehensive survey across 903 respondents, the study identifies four distinct consumer segments: Eco-Advocates, Les Connaisseurs, Price-Sensitives, and Traditionalists. These segments exhibit unique behaviors and attitudes toward certified products. The research highlights the potential of digital marketing to significantly alter consumer behavior toward EU-certified products, underscoring the importance of tailored communication strategies. It contributes to the understanding of consumer segmentation in the context of European Union quality schemes, providing valuable insights for policymakers, marketers, and producers. The findings advocate for enhanced digital marketing efforts to increase awareness and appreciation of these certified products, thereby supporting the broader objectives of quality and certification in the European agricultural and food product sector.

Harmonized Skies: A Survey on Drone Acceptance across Europe

This study investigated the public acceptance of drones in six European countries. For this purpose, an online questionnaire was created, which was completed by 2998 participants. The general attitude towards drones, concerns, approval for different use cases, minimum tolerable flight altitude, acceptable flight areas, and the impact of personal and demographic attributes on drone acceptance were analyzed. Overall, attitudes towards drones were quite positive in the entire sample and even improved slightly in a second measurement at the end of the questionnaire. However, the results also show that acceptance strongly depends on the use case. Drones for civil and public applications are more widely accepted than those for private and commercial applications. Moreover, the population still has high concerns about privacy and safety. Knowledge about drones, interest in technologies, and age proved essential to predicting acceptance. Thus, tailored communication strategies, for example, through social media, can enhance public awareness and acceptance.

Optimizing Communication in Ataxia: A Multifaceted Approach to Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC).

The progression of multisystem neurodegenerative diseases such as ataxia significantly impacts speech and communication, necessitating adaptive clinical care strategies. With the deterioration of speech, Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) can play an ever increasing role in daily life for individuals with ataxia. This review describes the spectrum of AAC resources available, ranging from unaided gestures and sign language to high-tech solutions like speech-generating devices (SGDs) and eye-tracking technology. Despite the availability of various AAC tools, their efficacy is often compromised by the physical limitations inherent in ataxia, including upper limb ataxia and visual disturbances. Traditional speech-to-text algorithms and eye gaze technology face challenges in accuracy and efficiency due to the atypical speech and movement patterns associated with the disease.In addressing these challenges, maintaining existing speech abilities through rehabilitation is prioritized, complemented by advances in digital therapeutics to provide home-based treatments. Simultaneously, projects incorporating AI driven solutions aim to enhance the intelligibility of dysarthric speech through improved speech-to-text accuracy.This review discusses the complex needs assessment for AAC in ataxia, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the disease and the importance of regular reassessment to tailor communication strategies to the changing abilities of the individual. It also highlights the necessity of multidisciplinary involvement for effective AAC assessment and intervention. The future of AAC looks promising with developments in brain-computer interfaces and the potential of voice banking, although their application in ataxia requires further exploration.

COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SOCIO-CULTURAL ACTIVITIES: ANALYSIS AND OPTIMIZATION OF THE IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN UKRAINE

This study investigates into the complex interplay among communication strategies, globalization, and socio-economic factors within the context of regional development, with a specific focus on Ukraine. Employing a mixed-methods approach, it seeks to investigate the profound impact of effective communication strategies on socio-cultural management and their contribution to regional growth in the era of globalization. The study combines quantitative data from regional development reports with stakeholders across various Ukrainian regions. A theoretical model, based on game theory and the Prisoner's Dilemma, is employed to examine strategic choices in communication, globalization integration, socioeconomic focus, infrastructure development, and cultural initiatives.Through an extensive analysis combining quantitative data derived from regional development reports with insights from stakeholders representing diverse Ukrainian regions, this research reveals that cooperative communication strategies, characterized by robust engagement, a balanced approach to globalization, equitable socio-economic development, strategic infrastructure investment, and active promotion of cultural initiatives, yield the most favourable outcomes for regional development.The key takeaway from this study is the paramount significance of inclusive and participatory approaches, effective communication strategies, and harmonious integration of globalization to foster sustainable regional development. Notably, tailored communication strategies exhibit a significant correlation with the success of socio-cultural initiatives, consequently exerting a positive influence on regional development. These encompass community engagement, cultural sensitivity, and adaptive information dissemination. In conclusion, comprehending and optimizing communication strategies emerge as critical imperatives for harnessing the benefits of globalization in the realm of regional development in Ukraine and analogous contexts.

Data-driven approaches to bridging the gap in health communication disparities: A systematic review

Data-driven approaches have emerged as powerful tools in addressing health communication disparities, aiming to bridge the gap in healthcare access and outcomes among diverse populations. A systematic review of these approaches reveals their significant potential in understanding, targeting, and mitigating communication disparities across various demographic and socio-economic groups. One key aspect of data-driven approaches is their ability to analyze vast amounts of health data to identify communication barriers and disparities. By leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms, researchers can uncover patterns, preferences, and needs among different communities, enabling tailored interventions and messages. For instance, analyzing social media data can reveal prevalent health concerns or misinformation circulating within specific populations, guiding the development of targeted communication strategies. Furthermore, data-driven approaches facilitate the evaluation of communication interventions in real-time, allowing for continuous refinement and adaptation. Through techniques such as sentiment analysis and engagement metrics, researchers can assess the effectiveness of health communication efforts among diverse audiences and make timely adjustments to optimize impact. Moreover, these approaches enable the creation of personalized health communication strategies that resonate with individuals' cultural backgrounds, languages, and literacy levels. By integrating demographic data and psychographic insights, communicators can deliver messages in culturally competent ways, fostering trust and engagement within marginalized communities. Data-driven approaches offer a promising avenue for addressing health communication disparities by providing insights into the unique needs and preferences of diverse populations. By harnessing the power of data analytics, researchers and healthcare practitioners can design more effective, tailored communication strategies that ultimately improve health outcomes and reduce disparities across communities. However, further research and collaboration are needed to maximize the potential of these approaches and ensure equitable access to healthcare communication for all.

New markets for local, renewable, or affordable energy? A segmentation analysis to identify consumer preferences for decentralized energy markets

Local Energy Markets (LEMs) allow direct citizen involvement in energy production and trading. A study surveyed 636 Swiss electricity consumers using choice-based conjoint analysis to explore preferences for various LEM characteristics. Three consumer segments emerged: 'Renewable energy enthusiasts' (42 %), interested in energy mix and community PV investment; 'Price sensitives' (30 %), driven mainly by costs; and 'Uninvolved' (28 %), focused on energy mix but hesitant about PV investment. Demographic and psychological variables helped characterize these segments, suggesting tailored communication strategies to boost participation in future energy markets. Communication strategies should focus on ‘Renewable energy enthusiasts’ segment and should emphasize environmental benefits and community engagement to leverage their high motivation for involvement.

Energy Labels and Consumer Attitudes: A Study among University Staff

This study investigates energy label awareness among Gazi University staff, exploring the influence of demographic factors on attitudes and perceptions. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the research examines individual attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control in shaping energy efficiency awareness. A cross-sectional survey of academic and administrative staff reveals significant differences in awareness across demographic groups. Gender-specific variations in attitudes towards energy-efficient products are evident, with the greatest difference observed between female (M = 3.93, SD = 1.16) and male staff (M = 3.58, SD = 1.30) on Capacity (I-11) (Z = −2.805, p = 0.005 &lt; 0.05). Education level also significantly influences awareness scores, particularly on the status symbol item (I-18) (χ2 = 24.543, p = 0.00 &lt; 0.05). These findings, analyzed through Wilcoxon Rank Sum and Kruskal–Wallis Tests, provide nuanced insights into the demographic factors impacting energy label awareness. Interpretation of the findings on the complex relationship between demographic characteristics and energy label awareness with TPB provided valuable insights. The practical implications of the study highlight the imperative for tailored communication strategies and targeted interventions to raise awareness among different staff groups. By addressing these nuanced factors, the study significantly contributes to the development of effective energy policies, fostering a sustainable and energy-conscious academic community.

Social media use for climate change campaign among Indonesian millennials

Background: Climate change has threatened humanity and brought about serious impacts for at least two decades. The terrible threat can be addressed through social media. Purpose: This study examined how Indonesian millennials use social media to discuss and advocate for climate change. Methods: It employed mixed methods to combine climate change data from scholarly sources and strategic communication strategies in social media campaigns. Results: The results indicated a predominant presence of millennials, particularly in the 20-29 age group, using Instagram as the primary platform for climate change discussions. Social media highlighted limited engagement with experts and concerns about misinformation and emphasized the vital role of celebrities and influencers in climate change campaigns on social media. Conclusion: The research suggested that social media platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp facilitate climate change discussions among Indonesian millennials. They enable tailored communication strategies and emphasize the potential for social media campaigns to influence a certain behavior. This research also emphasizes the need for a combined approach involving online and offline channels, better climate change education, and collaboration. Implications: The findings underscore the necessity for Indonesia’s climate change advocacy to integrate offline and online communication strategies that are tailored to individual preferences and enhance millennials’ understanding through targeted education and social media campaigns. Public figures may also be involved for broader impacts.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE: A COMPARATIVE REVIEW IN CANADA, USA, AND AFRICA

This research paper comprehensively analyzes electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in Canada, the USA, and Africa. Examining technological landscapes, regulatory frameworks, funding mechanisms, and socio-environmental impacts, the study reveals key trends and challenges. The technical overview encompasses Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging, focusing on interoperability and advancements. Government grants, public-private partnerships, and international funding drive infrastructure funding, fostering job creation and economic growth. The analysis reveals diverse cultural and behavioral factors influencing EV adoption, emphasizing the need for tailored communication strategies. The future envisions ultra-fast charging, wireless technologies, and smart ecosystems, demanding collaborative solutions to grid capacity and standardization challenges. This research contributes valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers, guiding the sustainable development of EV charging infrastructure globally. &#x0D; Keywords: Electric Vehicles, Charging Infrastructure, Sustainability, Socioeconomic Impact.

Planning and implementing community-based drug checking services in Scotland: a qualitative exploration using the consolidated framework for implementation research

BackgroundDrug checking services (DCS) provide harm reduction support and advice to individuals based on chemical analysis of submitted substances of concern. Whilst there are currently no DCS in Scotland, community-based services are being planned in three cities.MethodsIn this paper, we report qualitative findings based on interviews with 43 participants, focused on perceptions of DCS and their implementation. Participants were relevant professionals, those with experience of drug use, and family members of those with experience of drug use. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to inform data collection and analysis. We report findings under nine constructs/themes across the five CFIR domains.ResultsParticipants noted the importance of DCS being implemented in low-threshold, trusted services with a harm reduction ethos, and outlined a range of further service design considerations such as speed of testing, and information provided through the analysis process. In relation to the ‘inner setting’, a key finding related to the potential value of leveraging existing resources in order to expand both reach and effectiveness of drug trend communication. The approach of local and national police to DCS, and the attitudes of the public and local community, were described as important external factors which could influence the success (or otherwise) of implementation. Bringing together a range of stakeholders in dialogue and developing tailored communication strategies were seen as ways to build support for DCS. Overall, we found high levels of support and perceived need for DCS amongst all stakeholder groups.ConclusionsOur findings present initial implementation considerations for Scotland which could be further explored as DCS are operationalised. Further, our focus on implementation contexts is relevant to research on DCS more generally, given the minimal consideration of such issues in the literature.

Enhancing Conservation Communication: Using Digital Literacy to Address the Misunderstanding of Southern Africa’s Sustainable Use Approach in Western Settings

Effective communication and digital literacy are crucial for addressing misunderstandings about the Southern African approach to sustainable use in Western settings. This paper highlights the need to enhance conservation communication and explores the role of digital communication in bridging the gap between the Southern African approach and Western conservation paradigms. The Southern African emphasis on community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) and sustainable wildlife use for both conservation and economic purposes often faces misinterpretation and scepticism in Western societies that prioritize preservation and non-consumptive use. By analysing literature, case studies, and communication strategies, this study identifies the challenges stemming from cultural biases, differing conservation ideologies, and limited understanding of the Southern African context. It investigates the significance of digital literacy in overcoming these challenges by promoting the development of technology skills among conservation practitioners and members of communities coexisting with wildlife, equipping them with relevant digital tools, promoting information sharing, fostering cross-cultural dialogue, and engaging diverse stakeholders through digital platforms. The paper stresses the significance of utilizing diverse communication channels (including social media, online forums, websites, campaigns, multimedia tools, and educational resources) to share accurate and culturally sensitive information about the Southern African approach. It highlights the necessity for tailored communication strategies that consider the distinct needs and values of various audiences, incorporating digital approaches involving active listening, dialogue, and the integration of local knowledge. This study promotes the development of inclusive and accessible spaces through improved digital literacy and effective communication strategies. It advocates for mutual understanding and collaboration between Western and Southern African conservation practitioners, stakeholders, and decision-makers. By leveraging digital platforms and enhancing communication competencies, the Southern African approach can be better comprehended within Western settings, fostering sustainable conservation practices and nurturing collaborative partnerships in conservation initiatives.

Impact of open-mindedness on information avoidance: Tailored vs. generic communication

This study explores the impact of open-mindedness on tailored versus generic information communication. We develop a preference formation model and formulate the following hypotheses: (1) in the case of generic information, open-minded individuals tend to avoid information less, resulting in them being better-informed; (2) with tailored information, close-minded individuals display stronger resistance, necessitating the sender to provide additional information for effective persuasion. Our experiments validate the core theoretical predictions, with a few observed behavioral deviations: individuals tend to avoid more information than predicted, particularly when it is tailored. Our structural model attributes this reluctance to resistance in altering one’s worldview. This study makes a significant contribution to the application and testing of preference formation theory while also raising questions about the practical effectiveness of commonly used tailored communication strategies.