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Janulis P, Phillips G, Melville J, Hogan B, Banner K, Mustanski B, Oser CB, Tillson M, Schneider J, Birkett M. Network canvas: an open-source tool for capturing social and contact network data. Int J Epidemiol 2023; 52:1286-1291. [PMID: 36944105 PMCID: PMC10396415 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyad036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
MOTIVATION Social influence and contact networks are extremely important for understanding health behaviour and the spread of disease. Yet, most traditional software tools are not optimized to capture these data, making measurement of personal networks challenging. Our team developed Network Canvas to provide an end-to-end workflow with intuitive interfaces to enable researchers to design and conduct network interviews. IMPLEMENTATION Network Canvas consists of three applications (Architect, Interviewer and Server). All applications are written in JavaScript and run on Windows, macOS and Linux; Interviewer also runs on Android and iOS. GENERAL FEATURES Network Canvas substantially reduces the complexity and technical knowledge required to collect network data via three point-and-click applications. The tool has wide applicability for measuring contact and social influence networks in epidemiology. AVAILABILITY Network Canvas is open source and freely available [networkcanvas.com] under the GNU General Public License 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Janulis
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Gregory Phillips
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua Melville
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bernie Hogan
- Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kate Banner
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carrie B Oser
- Department of Sociology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Center for Health Equity Transformation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Martha Tillson
- Department of Sociology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - John Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michelle Birkett
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Bellotti E, Voros A, Passah M, Nongrum QD, Nengnong CB, Khongwir C, van Eijk A, Kessler A, Sarkar R, Carlton JM, Albert S. Social network and household exposure explain the use of malaria prevention measures in rural communities of Meghalaya, India. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.04.23.23288997. [PMID: 37162984 PMCID: PMC10168486 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.23.23288997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Malaria remains a global concern despite substantial reduction in incidence over the past twenty years. Public health interventions to increase the uptake of preventive measures have contributed to this decline but their impact has not been uniform. To date, we know little about what determines the use of preventive measures in rural, hard-to-reach populations, which are crucial contexts for malaria eradication. We collected detailed interview data on the use of malaria preventive measures, health-related discussion networks, individual characteristics, and household composition in ten tribal, malaria-endemic villages in Meghalaya, India in 2020-2021 (n=1,530). Employing standard and network statistical models, we found that social network and household exposure were consistently positively associated with preventive measure use across villages. Network and household exposure were also the most important factors explaining behaviour, outweighing individual characteristics, opinion leaders, and network size. These results suggest that real-life data on social networks and household composition should be considered in studies of health-behaviour change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Bellotti
- Department of Sociology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Andras Voros
- School of Social Policy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mattimi Passah
- Indian Institute of Public Health Shillong, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | | | | | | | - Annemieke van Eijk
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, USA
| | - Anne Kessler
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, USA
| | - Rajiv Sarkar
- Indian Institute of Public Health Shillong, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Jane M. Carlton
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, USA
| | - Sandra Albert
- Indian Institute of Public Health Shillong, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
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Dembo RS, Mailick MR, Rudolph AE, Huntington N, DaWalt LS, Mitra M. Social Network Diversity and Mental Health Among Mothers of Individuals With Autism. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 128:101-118. [PMID: 36807480 PMCID: PMC10506165 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-128.2.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined the associations between networks of social relationships and psychological well-being among mothers of adolescents and adults with autism (n = 352) over a 12-year period of time. A structural equation modeling approach was used to delineate the relative impacts of network size and relationship diversity on maternal mental health, and to assess whether such effects are bidirectional. Mothers with more diverse relationships experienced reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms over time, and the psychological benefits of diversity remained after adjusting for network size. Results also suggest bidirectional links between network size, diversity, and maternal mental health. Research and clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Dembo
- Robert S. Dembo and Marsha R. Mailick, University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Marsha R Mailick
- Robert S. Dembo and Marsha R. Mailick, University of Wisconsin-Madison
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Marsden PV, Hollstein B. Advances and innovations in methods for collecting egocentric network data. SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH 2023; 109:102816. [PMID: 36470633 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssresearch.2022.102816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews recent methodological research that bears on the collection of egocentric network data. It begins with background on setting egocentric network boundaries and principal types of instruments that obtain information about such networks. It then discusses innovations in data collection and studies of data quality. The bulk of these address questions about "name generator" instruments that obtain information about the alters and relationships in a subject's network. Among topics receiving substantial attention in recent research are mitigation of respondent burden, interviewer effects, survey mode, and the performance of name generators in longitudinal studies. Potentially fruitful innovations supplement conventional question-and-answer surveys with visual elements that promise to better engage respondents and reduce the demands that name generator-based data collection poses. We close by highlighting both accomplishments of this body of research and some open issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter V Marsden
- Department of Sociology, 630 William James Hall, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA; Universität Bremen, SOCIUM - Research Center Inequality and Social Policy, Mary-Somerville-Str. 9, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Betina Hollstein
- Department of Sociology, 630 William James Hall, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA; Universität Bremen, SOCIUM - Research Center Inequality and Social Policy, Mary-Somerville-Str. 9, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
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Prochnow T, Patterson M, Umstattd Meyer MR, Lightner J, Gomez L, Sharkey J. Conducting Physical Activity Research on Racially and Ethnically Diverse Adolescents Using Social Network Analysis: Case Studies for Practical Use. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11545. [PMID: 36141817 PMCID: PMC9517360 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent physical activity (PA) is significantly impacted by peer behaviors through peer influence, peer selection, and popularity. However, the scales for these social constructs may not fully capture the detailed social networks and mechanisms responsible for PA behavior changes. This level of detail and granularity can be quantified and analyzed through social network analysis (SNA). To demonstrate the variety, utility, and efficacy of SNA in adolescent PA research, this article aims to provide four case studies on the collection of social network and PA data on ethnically and racially diverse adolescents. Through case studies, this article provides tangible ways in which SNA can be used to evaluate social influences on PA behaviors. Case studies are presented on: (1) Youth Engagement in Sport-an egocentric analysis of middle school youth participation in an experiential sport program with 3- and 6-month follow-ups; (2) Summer care program networks-an egocentric and whole network longitudinal study of adolescents at summer care programs; (3) The Convoy method-a qualitative egocentric discussion activity with adolescents from colonias on the Texas-Mexico border; and (4) A father-focused, family-centered health program-an egocentric experimental analysis of children participating in a health program. Data collection procedures are listed and example surveys are provided. Descriptive analyses are included, as are recommendations on further analysis techniques for each type of network data. Using SNA, researchers can understand social contexts in a more specific manner, better positioning interventions to alter such influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Prochnow
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Meg Patterson
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | | | - Joseph Lightner
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Luis Gomez
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Joseph Sharkey
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Crawford ND, Josma D, Harrington KRV, Morris J, Quamina A, Birkett M, Phillips Ii G. Using the Think-Aloud Method to Assess the Feasibility and Acceptability of Network Canvas Among Black Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Persons: Qualitative Analysis. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e30237. [PMID: 34499040 PMCID: PMC8461526 DOI: 10.2196/30237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Characteristics of an individual's social network have been important factors in understanding infectious disease transmission patterns. Social network data collection is generally time and resource intensive, yet it is crucial to our understanding of the complex epidemiologic landscape of human behaviors among stigmatized social groups. OBJECTIVE We sought to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a self-administered social network data collection tool, Network Canvas, among Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) and transgender persons using the think-aloud method, which is a robust and flexible research technique used to perform usability testing. METHODS We piloted a self-administered network interview within the Network Canvas Software Suite. Participants aged 18 years and older were recruited through a community-based organization in Atlanta, GA, and were included based upon their willingness to share information on sexual behaviors and drug use for themselves and their social networks. A semistructured interview guide was used to document cognitive decision-making processes while using the tool. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analyses were performed. RESULTS Among 7 BMSM and transgender participants, three main themes were identified from cognitive processes: (1) the utility, (2) navigation, and (3) intuitive design of Network Canvas. Overall, Network Canvas was described as "easy to use," with suggestions mainly directed toward improving navigation tools and implementing an initial tutorial on the program prior to use. Participants were willing to use Network Canvas to document their social networks and characteristics. In general, observed verbal responses from participants matched their behavior, although there were some discrepancies between verbal affirmations of use and understanding versus external observation. CONCLUSIONS We found Network Canvas to be a useful new tool to capture social network data. Self-administration allowed participants the opportunity to provide sensitive information about themselves and their social networks. Furthermore, automated name generation and visualization of an individuals' social network in the app has the potential to reduce cognitive burden during data collection. More efficient methods of social network data collection have the potential to provide epidemiologic information to guide prevention efforts for populations with stigmatized health conditions or behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie D Crawford
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Dorie Josma
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kristin R V Harrington
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph Morris
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Population Health, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Michelle Birkett
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Gregory Phillips Ii
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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Lungeanu A, McKnight M, Negron R, Munar W, Christakis NA, Contractor NS. Using Trellis software to enhance high-quality large-scale network data collection in the field. SOCIAL NETWORKS 2021; 66:171-184. [PMID: 34219904 PMCID: PMC8117970 DOI: 10.1016/j.socnet.2021.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Trellis is a mobile platform created by the Human Nature Lab at the Yale Institute for Network Science to collect high-quality, location-aware, off-line/online, multi-lingual, multi-relational social network and behavior data in hard-to-reach communities. Respondents use Trellis to identify their social contacts by name and photograph, a procedure especially useful in low-literacy populations or in contexts where names may be similar or confusing. We use social network data collected from 1,969 adult respondents in two villages in Kenya to demonstrate Trellis' ability to provide unprecedented metadata to monitor and report on the data collection process including artifactual variability based on surveyors, time of day, or location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Lungeanu
- Northwestern University, 2240 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
| | - Mark McKnight
- Yale University, 17 Hillhouse Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511, United States
| | - Rennie Negron
- Yale University, 17 Hillhouse Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511, United States
| | - Wolfgang Munar
- George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, Washington, DC, 20052, United States
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Birkett M, Melville J, Janulis P, Phillips G, Contractor N, Hogan B. Network Canvas: Key decisions in the design of an interviewer assisted network data collection software suite. SOCIAL NETWORKS 2021; 66:114-124. [PMID: 34054204 PMCID: PMC8153363 DOI: 10.1016/j.socnet.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Self-reported social network analysis studies are often complex and burdensome, both during the interview process itself, and when conducting data management following the interview. Through funding obtained from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA/NIH), our team developed the Network Canvas suite of software - a set of complementary tools that are designed to simplify the collection and storage of complex social network data, with an emphasis on usability and accessibility across platforms and devices, and guided by the practical needs of researchers. The suite consists of three applications: Architect: an application for researchers to design and export interview protocols; Interviewer: a touch-optimized application for loading and administering interview protocols to study participants; and Server: an application for researchers to manage the interview deployment process and export their data for analysis. Together, they enable researchers with minimal technological expertise to access a complete research workflow, by building their own network interview protocols, deploying these protocols widely within a variety of contexts, and immediately attaining the resulting data from a secure central location. In this paper, we outline the critical decisions taken in developing this suite of tools for the network research community. We also describe the work which guides our decision-making, including prior experiences and key discovery events. We focus on key design choices, taken for theoretical, philosophical, and pragmatic reasons, and outline their strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Birkett
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Medical Social Sciences, Chicago, IL
| | - J Melville
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Medical Social Sciences, Chicago, IL
| | - P Janulis
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Medical Social Sciences, Chicago, IL
| | - G Phillips
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Medical Social Sciences, Chicago, IL
| | - N Contractor
- Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, Department of Management and Organizations, Evanston, IL
| | - B Hogan
- University of Oxford, Oxford Internet Institute, Oxford, UK
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