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Curnock MI, Nembhard D, Smith R, Sambrook K, Hobman EV, Mankad A, Pert PL, Chamberland E. Finding common ground: Understanding and engaging with science mistrust in the Great barrier reef region. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308252. [PMID: 39150962 PMCID: PMC11329155 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024] Open
Abstract
At a time when ambitious environmental management initiatives are required to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems, public trust in the science that underpins environmental policy and decision-making is waning. This decline in public trust coincides with a rise in misinformation, and threatens to undermine public support for, and participation in, environmental protection. Our study investigates the prevalence and predictors of mistrust in science associated with the protection and management of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) and its catchments. Using survey data from 1,877 residents of the GBR region, we identify environmental values, perceptions, and attitudes that are associated with science mistrust. Our results include a typology of GBR science trust and scepticism. Science-sceptical respondents, representing 31% of our sample, were likely to perceive waterway management decisions as being unfair, felt less responsible, and were less motivated to contribute to improving waterway health than those with greater trust in science. Science-sceptical respondents also had differing perceptions of some threats to waterways, in particular climate change. However, similarities and 'common ground' between respondents with varying levels of trust in science included a shared recognition of the importance of waterways' ecosystem services, and a shared perception of the relative health and problems within their regions' waterways. Our findings can help to break down assumptions about science-sceptical groups in the GBR region and elsewhere. We offer recommendations to guide more constructive engagement that seeks to restore trust and build consensus on mutual goals and pathways to protect vital ecosystem functions and services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew I Curnock
- CSIRO Environment, Australian Tropical Science and Innovation Precinct, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Danielle Nembhard
- CSIRO Environment, Australian Tropical Science and Innovation Precinct, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
- The Cairns Institute, James Cook University, Smithfield, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rachael Smith
- Queensland Department of Environment and Science, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Katie Sambrook
- C2O Consulting, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Aditi Mankad
- CSIRO Environment, Dutton Park, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Petina L Pert
- CSIRO Environment, Australian Tropical Science and Innovation Precinct, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emilee Chamberland
- CSIRO Environment, Australian Tropical Science and Innovation Precinct, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
- James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
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2
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Last BS, Beidas RS, Hoskins K, Waller CR, Khazanov GK. A critical review of clinician-directed nudges. Curr Opin Psychol 2024; 59:101856. [PMID: 39137509 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2024.101856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
As nudges-subtle changes to the way options are presented to guide choice-have gained popularity across policy domains in the past 15 years, healthcare systems and researchers have eagerly deployed these light-touch interventions to improve clinical decision-making. However, recent research has identified the limitations of nudges. Although nudges may modestly improve clinical decisions in some contexts, these interventions (particularly nudges implemented as electronic health record alerts) can also backfire and have unintended consequences. Further, emerging research on crowd-out effects suggests that healthcare nudges may direct attention and resources toward the clinical encounter and away from the main structural drivers of poor health outcomes. It is time to move beyond nudges and toward the development of multi-level, structurally focused interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana S Last
- Department of Psychology, Psychology Building B, Room 358, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Rinad S Beidas
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 North Michigan Avenue, 21st Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Katelin Hoskins
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Claire R Waller
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 North Michigan Avenue, 21st Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Gabriela Kattan Khazanov
- Center of Excellence for Substance Addiction and Treatment, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, 3900 Woodland Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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3
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Slingo ME, Slingo JM. The Color of Climate Change: Transparency Over the Burden From Anesthesia. Anesth Analg 2024; 138:1151-1153. [PMID: 38771596 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000006895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Slingo
- From the Shackleton Department of Anaesthesia, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
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4
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Brumback AC, Ngiam WXQ, Lapato DM, Allison DB, Daniels CL, Dougherty M, Hazlett HF, Kerr KL, Pusek S, Rethlefsen ML, Schrag N. Catalyzing communities of research rigour champions. Brain Commun 2024; 6:fcae120. [PMID: 38764774 PMCID: PMC11099651 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcae120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The biomedical sciences must maintain and enhance a research culture that prioritizes rigour and transparency. The US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke convened a workshop entitled 'Catalyzing Communities of Research Rigor Champions' that brought together a diverse group of leaders in promoting research rigour and transparency (identified as 'rigour champions') to discuss strategies, barriers and resources for catalyzing technical, cultural and educational changes in the biomedical sciences. This article summarizes 2 days of panels and discussions and provides an overview of critical barriers to research rigour, perspectives behind reform initiatives and considerations for stakeholders across science. Additionally, we describe applications of network science to foster, maintain and expand cultural changes related to scientific rigour and opportunities to embed rigourous practices into didactic courses, training experiences and degree programme requirements. We hope this piece provides a primer for the wider research community on current discussions and actions and inspires individuals to build, join or expand collaborative networks within their own institutions that prioritize rigourous research practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey C Brumback
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin, TX 78712, USA
- The Center for Learning and Memory, The University of Texas at Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - William X Q Ngiam
- Institute of Mind and Biology, University of Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Dana M Lapato
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - David B Allison
- School of Public Health, Indiana University Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Christin L Daniels
- Triangle Center of Excellence in Regulatory Science and Innovation, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and Duke University, Durham, NC 27599, USA
| | | | - Haley F Hazlett
- Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), Rockville, MD 20852, USA
| | - Kara L Kerr
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, OK 74078, USA
| | - Susan Pusek
- North Carolina Translational and Clinical Sciences Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Melissa L Rethlefsen
- Health Sciences Library & Informatics Center, University of New Mexico, 87131, USA
| | - Naomi Schrag
- Office of the Executive Vice President for Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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5
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Degli-Innocenti F. Rebuttal of the arguments put forward in the Letter to the Editor by Nizzetto et al. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133691. [PMID: 38335614 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
In their Letter to the Editor, Nizzetto et al. challange a recent article in which I show that there has been unwarranted alarmism about biodegradable mulch films due to the publication of numerous articles based on preliminary data that are irrelevant for drawing conclusions on environmental risk. The tendency to over-emphasise results in order to attract attention is a growing problem in the scientific world and has been studied by many scholars. Nizzetto et al. accuse me of not using scientific methodology and of not disclosing that I am a scientist working for a company that produces biodegradable plastics. In this rebuttal I show that Nizzetto et al.'s accusations suffer from a number of logical fallacies, in particular the "straw man" fallacy and the "ad hominem" fallacy.
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Stewart AJ, Arechar AA, Rand DG, Plotkin JB. The distorting effects of producer strategies: Why engagement does not reveal consumer preferences for misinformation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2315195121. [PMID: 38412133 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2315195121] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
A great deal of empirical research has examined who falls for misinformation and why. Here, we introduce a formal game-theoretic model of engagement with news stories that captures the strategic interplay between (mis)information consumers and producers. A key insight from the model is that observed patterns of engagement do not necessarily reflect the preferences of consumers. This is because producers seeking to promote misinformation can use strategies that lead moderately inattentive readers to engage more with false stories than true ones-even when readers prefer more accurate over less accurate information. We then empirically test people's preferences for accuracy in the news. In three studies, we find that people strongly prefer to click and share news they perceive as more accurate-both in a general population sample, and in a sample of users recruited through Twitter who had actually shared links to misinformation sites online. Despite this preference for accurate news-and consistent with the predictions of our model-we find markedly different engagement patterns for articles from misinformation versus mainstream news sites. Using 1,000 headlines from 20 misinformation and 20 mainstream news sites, we compare Facebook engagement data with 20,000 accuracy ratings collected in a survey experiment. Engagement with a headline is negatively correlated with perceived accuracy for misinformation sites, but positively correlated with perceived accuracy for mainstream sites. Taken together, these theoretical and empirical results suggest that consumer preferences cannot be straightforwardly inferred from empirical patterns of engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Stewart
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9SS, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio A Arechar
- División de Economía, Center for Research and Teaching in Economics, Centro de Investigación y Docencia Económicas, Aguascalientes, MX 20314
- Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - David G Rand
- Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Joshua B Plotkin
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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7
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Pal A, Klingmann I, Wangmo T, Elger B. Publishing clinical trial results in plain language: a clash of ethical principles? Curr Med Res Opin 2024; 40:493-503. [PMID: 38354123 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2024.2308729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Plain language resources (PLR) are lay summaries of clinical trial results or plain language summaries of publications, in digital/visual/language formats. They aim to provide accurate information in jargon-free, and easy-to-understand language that can meet the health information needs of the general public, especially patients and caregivers. These are typically developed by the study sponsors or investigators, or by national public health bodies, research hospitals, patient organizations, and non-profit organizations. While the usefulness of PLR seems unequivocal, they have never been analyzed from the perspective of ethics. In this commentary, we do so and reflect on whether PLR are categorically advantageous or if they solve certain issues but raise new problems at the same time. Ethical concerns that PLR can potentially address include but are not limited to individual and community level health literacy, patient empowerment and autonomy. We also highlight the ethical issues that PLR may potentially exacerbate, such as fair balanced presentation and interpretation of medical knowledge, positive publication bias, and equitable access to information. PLR are important resources for patients, with promising implications for individual as well as community health. However, they require appropriate oversight and standards to optimize their potential value. Hence, we also highlight recommendations and best practices from our reading of the literature, that aim to minimize these biases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avishek Pal
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ingrid Klingmann
- European Forum for Good Clinical Practice, Brussels, Belgium
- Pharmaplex BV, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tenzin Wangmo
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernice Elger
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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8
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Styczinski MJ, Glaser DM, Hooks M, Jia TZ, Johnson-Finn K, Schaible GA, Schaible MJ. Chapter 11: Astrobiology Education, Engagement, and Resources. ASTROBIOLOGY 2024; 24:S216-S227. [PMID: 38498823 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2021.0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Although astrobiology is a relatively new field of science, the questions it seeks to answer (e.g., "What is life?" "What does life require?") have been investigated for millennia. In recent decades, formal programs dedicated specifically to the science of astrobiology have been organized at academic, governmental, and institutional scales. Constructing educational programs around this emerging science relies on input from broad expertise and backgrounds. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of this field, career pathways in astrobiology often begin in more specific fields such as astronomy, geology, or biology, and unlike many other sciences, typically involve substantial training outside one's primary discipline. The recent origin of astrobiology as a field of science has led to strong collaborations with education research in the development of astrobiology courses and offers a unique instructional laboratory for further pedagogical studies. This chapter is intended to support students, educators, and early career scientists by connecting them to materials and opportunities that the authors and colleagues have found advantageous. Annotated lists of relevant programs and resources are included as a series of appendices in the supplementary material.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Styczinski
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - D M Glaser
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - M Hooks
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - T Z Jia
- Earth-Life Science Institute, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - K Johnson-Finn
- Earth-Life Science Institute, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | | | - M J Schaible
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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9
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Goldstone RL, Dubova M, Aiyappa R, Edinger A. The Spread of Beliefs in Partially Modularized Communities. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2024; 19:404-417. [PMID: 38019565 DOI: 10.1177/17456916231198238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Many life-influencing social networks are characterized by considerable informational isolation. People within a community are far more likely to share beliefs than people who are part of different communities. The spread of useful information across communities is impeded by echo chambers (far greater connectivity within than between communities) and filter bubbles (more influence of beliefs by connected neighbors within than between communities). We apply the tools of network analysis to organize our understanding of the spread of beliefs across modularized communities and to predict the effect of individual and group parameters on the dynamics and distribution of beliefs. In our Spread of Beliefs in Modularized Communities (SBMC) framework, a stochastic block model generates social networks with variable degrees of modularity, beliefs have different observable utilities, individuals change their beliefs on the basis of summed or average evidence (or intermediate decision rules), and parameterized stochasticity introduces randomness into decisions. SBMC simulations show surprising patterns; for example, increasing out-group connectivity does not always improve group performance, adding randomness to decisions can promote performance, and decision rules that sum rather than average evidence can improve group performance, as measured by the average utility of beliefs that the agents adopt. Overall, the results suggest that intermediate degrees of belief exploration are beneficial for the spread of useful beliefs in a community, and so parameters that pull in opposite directions on an explore-exploit continuum are usefully paired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Goldstone
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University
- Program in Cognitive Science, Indiana University
| | | | - Rachith Aiyappa
- Center for Complex Networks and Systems, Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana University
| | - Andy Edinger
- Program in Cognitive Science, Indiana University
- Center for Complex Networks and Systems, Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana University
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10
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Degli-Innocenti F. The pathology of hype, hyperbole and publication bias is creating an unwarranted concern towards biodegradable mulch films. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132923. [PMID: 37939562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
The idea that it is a risk to promote biodegradable mulch films on a large scale is becoming established at academic level based on a series of articles similar in approach and conclusions. However, a critical analysis shows that the results do not justify the alarmist tones. The negative effects of hand-cut pieces of virgin material added in pots at concentrations up to 714 times the application doses are ascribed to the "accumulation" and "contamination" of "residues" and "debris" of biodegradable plastics. Yet, no accumulation and no contamination of biodegradable microplastics has actually been shown. No Predicted Environmental Concentration was established, thus the use of the term risk is inappropriate. The hypothesis of transient phytotoxicity of organic matter under decomposition i.e., an artificial outcome of the experimental scheme used, was not considered. A scrupulous approach to terminology is very important for the quality of communication and for the development of innovations. Scientific communication is a delicate process in which and to avoid hyperbole, there must be strict logical and lexical consistency between results and conclusions. Guidelines on the communication of the results of studies on biodegradable mulch must be developed to avoid the spread of unjustified concerns.
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Bao H, Teplitskiy M. A simulation-based analysis of the impact of rhetorical citations in science. Nat Commun 2024; 15:431. [PMID: 38200080 PMCID: PMC10781737 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44249-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Authors of scientific papers are usually encouraged to cite works that meaningfully influenced their research (substantive citations) and avoid citing works that had no meaningful influence (rhetorical citations). Rhetorical citations are assumed to degrade incentives for good work and benefit prominent papers and researchers. Here, we explore if rhetorical citations have some plausibly positive effects for science and disproportionately benefit the less prominent papers and researchers. We developed a set of agent-based models where agents can cite substantively and rhetorically. Agents first choose papers to read based on their expected quality, become influenced by those that are sufficiently good, and substantively cite them. Next, agents fill any remaining slots in their reference lists with rhetorical citations that support their narrative, regardless of whether they were actually influential. We then turned agents' ability to cite rhetorically on-and-off to measure its effects. Enabling rhetorical citing increased the correlation between paper quality and citations, increased citation churn, and reduced citation inequality. This occurred because rhetorical citing redistributed some citations from a stable set of elite-quality papers to a more dynamic set with high-to-moderate quality and high rhetorical value. Increasing the size of reference lists, often seen as an undesirable trend, amplified the effects. Overall, rhetorical citing may help deconcentrate attention and make it easier to displace established ideas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglin Bao
- Harvard Business School, Allston, MA, 02163, USA.
| | - Misha Teplitskiy
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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12
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Vitanov NK, Dimitrova ZI, Vitanov KN. News Waves: Hard News, Soft News, Fake News, Rumors, News Wavetrains. ENTROPY (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 26:5. [PMID: 38275485 PMCID: PMC10814034 DOI: 10.3390/e26010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
We discuss the spread of a piece of news in a population. This is modeled by SIR model of epidemic spread. The model can be reduced to a nonlinear differential equation for the number of people affected by the news of interest. The differential equation has an exponential nonlinearity and it can be approximated by a sequence of nonlinear differential equations with polynomial nonlinearities. Exact solutions to these equations can be obtained by the Simple Equations Method (SEsM). Some of these exact solutions can be used to model a class of waves associated with the spread of the news in a population. The presence of exact solutions allow to study in detail the dependence of the amplitude and the time horizon of the news waves on the wave parameters, such as the size of the population, initial number of spreaders of the piece of the news, transmission rate, and recovery rate. This allows for recommendations about the change of wave parameters in order to achieve a large amplitude or appropriate time horizon of the news wave. We discuss five types of news waves on the basis of the values of the transmission rate and recovery rate-types A, B, C, D, and E of news waves. In addition, we discuss the possibility of building wavetrains by news waves. There are three possible kinds of wavetrains with respect of the amplitude of the wave: increasing wavetrain, decreasing wavetrain, and mixed wavetrain. The increasing wavetrain is especially interesting, as it is connected to an increasing amplitude of the news wave with respect to the amplitude of the previous wave of the wavetrain. It can find applications in advertising, propaganda, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay K. Vitanov
- Institute of Mechanics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 4, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (Z.I.D.); (K.N.V.)
- Climate, Atmosphere and Water Research Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Blvd. Tzarigradsko Chaussee 66, 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Zlatinka I. Dimitrova
- Institute of Mechanics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 4, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (Z.I.D.); (K.N.V.)
| | - Kaloyan N. Vitanov
- Institute of Mechanics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 4, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (Z.I.D.); (K.N.V.)
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13
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Lehmann R. When We Publish: Accuracy and Quality Control in the Time of Open Access. Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol 2023; 39:v-ix. [PMID: 37843927 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cb-39-091823-100001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
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14
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Tong S, Samet JM, Steffen W, Kinney PL, Frumkin H. Solidarity for the Anthropocene. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 235:116716. [PMID: 37481056 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Social solidarity is essential to large-scale collective action, but the need for solidarity has received little attention from scholars of Earth Systems, sustainability and public health. Now, the need for solidarity requires recognition. We have entered a new planetary epoch - the Anthropocene - in which human-induced global changes are occurring at an unprecedented scale. There are multiple health crises facing humanity - widening inequity, climate change, biodiversity loss, diminishing resources, persistent poverty, armed conflict, large-scale migration, and others. These global challenges are so far-reaching, and call for such extensive, large-scale action, that solidarity is a sine qua non for tackling these challenges. However, the heightened need for solidarity has received little attention in the context of the Anthropocene and, in particular, how it can be created and nurtured has been overlooked. In this commentary, we explore the concept of solidarity from inter-species, intra-generational and inter-generational perspectives. We also propose strategies to enhance solidarity in the Anthropocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilu Tong
- National Institute of Environmental Health, China CDC, Beijing, China; School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
| | | | - Will Steffen
- The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Patrick L Kinney
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Howard Frumkin
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA; Trust for Public Land, Seattle, USA
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15
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Lebowitz AJ. The Sendai Framework Eight Years On: Whither the "Science-Policy Interface"? Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e501. [PMID: 37795804 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
This short commentary is a general analysis of the current state of the knowledge-policy relationship in the disaster field. This "science-policy interface" was described as fundamental in the 2015 UN Sendai Framework. However, midway to the 2030 deadline, there have been concerns from both the UN and academia about the lack of policy compared to research production. This suggests that barriers to this relationship may exist. To explain these, recent scholarship on factors influencing the general relationship between knowledge and policy is examined. Aspects of the "shape" of disaster research and its effect on policy creation are also examined, and a new direction is proposed. How the UN's initial approach plausibly did not support this interface is also explained; however, more recent advocacy suggests that the organization has taken a new approach that may prove effective. Overall, a debate within the disaster field about its role in policy creation may be necessary.
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16
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Chu J, Zhu Y, Ji J. Characterizing the semantic features of climate change misinformation on Chinese social media. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2023; 32:845-859. [PMID: 37162274 DOI: 10.1177/09636625231166542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Climate change misinformation leads to significant adverse impacts and has become a global concern. Identifying misinformation and investigating its characteristics are of great importance to counteract misinformation. Therefore, this study aims to characterize the semantic features (frames and authority references) of climate change misinformation in the context of Chinese social media. Posts concerning climate change were collected from Weibo between January 2010 and December 2020. First, veracity, frames, and authority references were manually labeled. Then, we applied logistic regression to examine the relationship between information veracity and semantic features. The results revealed that posts concerning environmental and health impact and science and technology were more likely to be misinformation. Moreover, posts referencing non-specific authority sources are more likely to be misinformed than posts making no references to any authority references. This study provides a theoretical understanding of the semantic characteristics of climate change misinformation and practical suggestions for combating them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxun Chu
- University of Science and Technology of China, China
| | - Yuqi Zhu
- University of Science and Technology of China, China
| | - Jiaojiao Ji
- University of Science and Technology of China, China
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17
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Broniatowski DA, Simons JR, Gu J, Jamison AM, Abroms LC. The efficacy of Facebook's vaccine misinformation policies and architecture during the COVID-19 pandemic. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh2132. [PMID: 37713497 PMCID: PMC11044214 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh2132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Online misinformation promotes distrust in science, undermines public health, and may drive civil unrest. During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, Facebook-the world's largest social media company-began to remove vaccine misinformation as a matter of policy. We evaluated the efficacy of these policies using a comparative interrupted time-series design. We found that Facebook removed some antivaccine content, but we did not observe decreases in overall engagement with antivaccine content. Provaccine content was also removed, and antivaccine content became more misinformative, more politically polarized, and more likely to be seen in users' newsfeeds. We explain these findings as a consequence of Facebook's system architecture, which provides substantial flexibility to motivated users who wish to disseminate misinformation through multiple channels. Facebook's architecture may therefore afford antivaccine content producers several means to circumvent the intent of misinformation removal policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Broniatowski
- Department of Engineering Management and Systems
Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
- Institute for Data, Democracy, and Politics, The
George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Joseph R. Simons
- Office of the Assistant Secretary for Financial
Resources, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, DC 20543,
USA
| | - Jiayan Gu
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The
George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Amelia M. Jamison
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns
Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Lorien C. Abroms
- Institute for Data, Democracy, and Politics, The
George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The
George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
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18
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Bergstrom CT, West JD. How publishers can fight misinformation in and about science and medicine. Nat Med 2023; 29:2174-2176. [PMID: 37420100 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02411-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Carl T Bergstrom
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Jevin D West
- Center for an Informed Public, Information School, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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19
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Bernet W, Xu S. Scholarly rumors: Citation analysis of vast misinformation regarding parental alienation theory. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2023; 41:231-245. [PMID: 36582021 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Misinformation is widespread in political discourse, mental health literature, and hard science. This article describes recurrent publication of the same misinformation regarding parental alienation (PA), that is, variations of the statement: "PA theory assumes that the favored parent has caused PA in the child simply because the child refuses to have a relationship with the rejected parent, without identifying or proving alienating behaviors by the favored parent." Ninety-four examples of the same misinformation were identified and subjected to citation analysis using Gephi software, which displays the links between citing material and cited material. The recurrent misinformation reported here is not trivial; these statements are significant misrepresentations of PA theory. Plausible explanations for this trail of misinformation are the psychological mindset of the authors (i.e., confirmation bias) and the authors' writing skills (e.g., sloppy research practices such as persistent use of secondary sources for their information). The authors of this article recommend that publications containing significant misinformation should be corrected or retracted.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Bernet
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Shenmeng Xu
- Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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20
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Meng Y, Broom M, Li A. Impact of misinformation in the evolution of collective cooperation on networks. J R Soc Interface 2023; 20:20230295. [PMID: 37751874 PMCID: PMC10522409 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2023.0295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Human societies are organized and developed through collective cooperative behaviours. Based on the information in their environment, individuals can form collective cooperation by strategically changing unfavourable surroundings and imitating superior behaviours. However, facing the rampant proliferation and spreading of misinformation, we still lack systematic investigations into the impact of misinformation on the evolution of collective cooperation. Here, we study this problem by classical evolutionary game theory. We find that the existence of misinformation generally impedes the emergence of collective cooperation on networks, although the level of cooperation is slightly higher for weak social cooperative dilemma below a proven threshold. We further show that this possible advantage diminishes as social connections become denser, suggesting that the detrimental effect of misinformation further increases when 'social viscosity' is low. Our results uncover the quantitative effect of misinformation on suppressing collective cooperation, and pave the way for designing possible mechanisms to improve collective cooperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Meng
- Center for Systems and Control, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mark Broom
- Department of Mathematics, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London EC1V 0HB, UK
| | - Aming Li
- Center for Systems and Control, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Multi-Agent Research, Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Peking University, Beijing 100871, People’s Republic of China
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21
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Wang Y, Zhong S, Wang G. Preventing online disinformation propagation: Cost-effective dynamic budget allocation of refutation, media censorship, and social bot detection. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2023; 20:13113-13132. [PMID: 37501480 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2023584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Disinformation refers to false rumors deliberately fabricated for certain political or economic conspiracies. So far, how to prevent online disinformation propagation is still a severe challenge. Refutation, media censorship, and social bot detection are three popular approaches to stopping disinformation, which aim to clarify facts, intercept the spread of existing disinformation, and quarantine the source of disinformation, respectively. In this paper, we study the collaboration of the above three countermeasures in defending disinformation. Specifically, considering an online social network, we study the most cost-effective dynamic budget allocation (DBA) strategy for the three methods to minimize the proportion of disinformation-supportive accounts on the network with the lowest expenditure. For convenience, we refer to the search for the optimal DBA strategy as the DBA problem. Our contributions are as follows. First, we propose a disinformation propagation model to characterize the effects of different DBA strategies on curbing disinformation. On this basis, we establish a trade-off model for DBA strategies and reduce the DBA problem to an optimal control model. Second, we derive an optimality system for the optimal control model and develop a heuristic numerical algorithm called the DBA algorithm to solve the optimality system. With the DBA algorithm, we can find possible optimal DBA strategies. Third, through numerical experiments, we estimate key model parameters, examine the obtained DBA strategy, and verify the effectiveness of the DBA algorithm. Results show that the DBA algorithm is effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- School of Big Data and Information Industry, Chongqing City Management College, Chongqing 400000, China
| | - Shicheng Zhong
- Chongqing Longjin Technology Co., Ltd, Chongqing 400000, China
| | - Guo Wang
- College of Mechanical Engineering, Chongqing Wuyi Polytechinc College, Chongqing 400000, China
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Abstract
With the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists from various
disciplines responded quickly to this historical public health emergency. The
sudden boom of COVID-19-related papers in a short period of time may bring
unexpected influence to some commonly used bibliometric indicators. By a
large-scale investigation using Science Citation Index Expanded and Social
Sciences Citation Index, this brief communication confirms the citation
advantage of COVID-19-related papers empirically through the lens of Essential
Science Indicators’ highly cited paper. More than 8% of COVID-19-related papers
published during 2020 and 2021 were selected as Essential Science Indicators
highly cited papers, which was much higher than the set global benchmark value
of 1%. The citation advantage of COVID-19-related papers for different Web of
Science categories/countries/journal impact factor quartiles was also
demonstrated. The distortions of COVID-19-related papers’ citation advantage to
some bibliometric indicators such as journal impact factor were discussed at the
end of this brief communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weishu Liu
- School of Information Management and Artificial
Intelligence, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, China
| | - Xuping Huangfu
- School of Information Management and Artificial
Intelligence, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, China
| | - Haifeng Wang
- Haifeng Wang, School of Business and
Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 200083, China.
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23
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Chen L, Tang H. Intention of health experts to counter health misinformation in social media: Effects of perceived threat to online users, correction efficacy, and self-affirmation. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2023; 32:284-303. [PMID: 36515488 DOI: 10.1177/09636625221138357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Our study analyzes the intention of Chinese health experts (health professionals and medical students) to correct health misinformation in social media. In an experimental 2 × 2 × 2 between-subjects factorial design (n = 415), we manipulated the experts' perception of the threat that health misinformation poses for online users, their self-efficacy with respect to correcting misinformation, and their self-affirmation. To select the potential influence factors, we draw on self-affirmation theory and the extended parallel process model. Results of our experiment revealed that correction intention increases if experts perceive the threat for online users as severe, believe that they are capable of countering the impact of misinformation, and have a high motivation to maintain a positive self-image of caring for others. We discuss the consequences of our findings for motivating experts to help reduce the adverse effects of health misinformation in social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Chen
- School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University, China
| | - Hongjie Tang
- School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University, China
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24
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Lee B, Hwang S, Kim PG, Ko G, Jang K, Kim S, Kim JH, Jeon J, Kim H, Jung J, Yoon BH, Byeon I, Jang I, Song W, Choi J, Kim SY. Introduction of the Korea BioData Station (K-BDS) for sharing biological data. Genomics Inform 2023; 21:e12. [PMID: 37037470 PMCID: PMC10085736 DOI: 10.5808/gi.22073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A wave of new technologies has created opportunities for the cost-effective generation of high-throughput profiles of biological systems, foreshadowing a "data-driven science" era. The large variety of data available from biological research is also a rich resource that can be used for innovative endeavors. However, we are facing considerable challenges in big data deposition, integration, and translation due to the complexity of biological data and its production at unprecedented exponential rates. To address these problems, in 2020, the Korean government officially announced a national strategy to collect and manage the biological data produced through national R&D fund allocations and provide the collected data to researchers. To this end, the Korea Bioinformation Center (KOBIC) developed a new biological data repository, the Korea BioData Station (K-BDS), for sharing data from individual researchers and research programs to create a data-driven biological study environment. The K-BDS is dedicated to providing free open access to a suite of featured data resources in support of worldwide activities in both academia and industry.
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25
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Depression screening in pregnancy and postpartum: Just do something? Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 82:14-18. [PMID: 36893651 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
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26
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Miller M, Lindley AR, West JD, Thayer EK, Godfrey EM. Does lower use of academic affiliation by university faculty in top U.S. newspapers contribute to misinformation about abortion? JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 16:7-20. [PMID: 36919808 DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2022.2150166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND University faculty are considered trusted sources of information to disseminate accurate information to the public that abortion is a common, safe and necessary medical health care service. However, misinformation persists about abortion's alleged dangers, commonality, and medical necessity. METHODS Systematic review of popular media articles related to abortion, gun control (an equally controversial topic), and cigarette use (a more neutral topic) published in top U.S. newspapers between January 2015 and July 2020 using bivariate analysis and logistic regression to compare disclosure of university affiliation among experts in each topic area. RESULTS We included 41 abortion, 102 gun control, and 130 smoking articles, which consisted of 304 distinct media mentions of university-affiliated faculty. Articles with smoking and gun control faculty experts had statistically more affiliations mentioned (90%, n = 195 and 88%, n = 159, respectively) than abortion faculty experts (77%, n = 54) (p = 0.02). The probability of faculty disclosing university affiliation was similar between smoking and gun control (p = 0.73), but between smoking and abortion was significantly less (Ave Marginal Effects - 0.13, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Fewer faculty members disclose their university affiliation in top U.S. newspapers when discussing abortion. Lack of academic disclosure may paradoxically make these faculty appear less 'legitimate.' This leads to misinformation, branding abortion as a 'choice,' suggesting it is an unessential medical service. With the recent U.S. Supreme Court landmark decision, Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, and subsequent banning of abortion in many U.S. states, faculty will probably be even less likely to disclose their university affiliation in the media than in the past.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison Miller
- Medical Student, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alexa R Lindley
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Jevin D West
- Information School, Co-Founder of the Center for an Informed Public, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Erin K Thayer
- Department of Family Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Emily M Godfrey
- Departments of Family Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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27
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Jadad AR. Could we survive a belief crisis? J Public Health Policy 2023; 44:167-169. [PMID: 36624269 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-022-00381-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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28
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Balci F, Ben Hamed S, Boraud T, Bouret S, Brochier T, Brun C, Cohen JY, Coutureau E, Deffains M, Doyère V, Gregoriou GG, Heimel JA, Kilavik BE, Lee D, Leuthardt EC, Mainen ZF, Mathis M, Monosov IE, Naudé J, Orsborn AL, Padoa-Schioppa C, Procyk E, Sabatini B, Sallet J, Sandi C, Schall JD, Soltani A, Svoboda K, Wilson CRE, Zimmermann J. A response to claims of emergent intelligence and sentience in a dish. Neuron 2023; 111:604-605. [PMID: 36863319 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fuat Balci
- University of Manitoba, Department of Biological Sciences, 50 Sifton Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2M5, Canada
| | - Suliann Ben Hamed
- Institut des Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, UMR5229 CNRS Université de Lyon, 67 Boulevard Pinel, 69675 Bron Cedex, France
| | - Thomas Boraud
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, IMN, UMR 5293, 33000 Bordeaux, France; CHU de Bordeaux, IMN Clinique, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Sébastien Bouret
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), INSERM UMRS 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Brochier
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (INT), UMR 7289, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Cédric Brun
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, IMN, UMR 5293, 33000 Bordeaux, France; University Bordeaux Montaigne, Philosophy Department, 33607 Pessac, France
| | | | | | - Marc Deffains
- University Bordeaux, CNRS, IMN, UMR 5293, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Valérie Doyère
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, UMR9197, 91400 Saclay, France
| | - Georgia G Gregoriou
- University of Crete, Faculty of Medicine and Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Applied and Computational Mathematics, Heraklion 70013, Greece
| | | | - Bjørg Elisabeth Kilavik
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (INT), UMR 7289, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Daeyeol Lee
- Zanvyl Krieger Mind/Brain Institute, Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eric C Leuthardt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Mackenzie Mathis
- École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Brain Mind Institute, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ilya E Monosov
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Jérémie Naudé
- IGF, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Amy L Orsborn
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Camillo Padoa-Schioppa
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Emmanuel Procyk
- University Lyon, Université Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute U1208, Bron, France.
| | - Bernardo Sabatini
- HHMI, Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jérôme Sallet
- University Lyon, Université Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute U1208, Bron, France
| | - Carmen Sandi
- École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Brain Mind Institute, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jeffrey D Schall
- Visual Neurophysiology Centre, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alireza Soltani
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth University, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Karel Svoboda
- Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Charles R E Wilson
- University Lyon, Université Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute U1208, Bron, France
| | - Jan Zimmermann
- University of Minnesota, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Bazzari FH, Bazzari AH. Attitudes and Knowledge Regarding the Therapeutic Use of Cannabinoids among Community Pharmacists: A Pilot Cross-Sectional Study in Amman, Jordan. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11050694. [PMID: 36900699 PMCID: PMC10000482 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11050694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in the therapeutic use of cannabis worldwide, with a number of cannabinoid-derived drugs currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for certain indications. This study was conducted via a printed questionnaire and aimed to explore the attitudes and knowledge regarding the therapeutic use of cannabis and cannabinoids among community pharmacists residing in Amman, Jordan. The results revealed a neutral to low agreement level regarding the medical usefulness of cannabis; however, a higher agreement level was observed for FDA-approved cannabinoid-derived drugs. The majority of the participants reported that they did not learn enough regarding cannabinoids, do not adequately remember what they have learned, and do not actively look for information after graduation. The average percentages of correct identification of cannabis/cannabinoid FDA-approved drug indications, common adverse effects, interacting drugs, and cautions/contraindications were 40.6%, 53%, 49.4%, and 57.3%, respectively, with an overall correct identification rate of 51.1% of the participants. In conclusion, the results indicate an inadequate level of knowledge with a significant room for improvement regarding the various aspects of cannabinoid pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firas H. Bazzari
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Jerash University, Jerash 26150, Jordan
- Correspondence:
| | - Amjad H. Bazzari
- Department of Basic Scientific Sciences, Faculty of Arts & Sciences, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan
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Kariuki P, Ofusori LO, Goyayi ML, Subramaniam PR. Health-related misinformation and public governance of COVID-19 in South Africa. DIGITAL POLICY, REGULATION AND GOVERNANCE 2023. [DOI: 10.1108/dprg-12-2021-0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper was to examine health-related misinformation proliferation during COVID-19 pandemic and its implications on public governance in South Africa.
Design/methodology/approach
Because of COVID-19 related restrictions, this study conducted a systematic review. The researchers searched several search engines which include PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus to identify relevant studies. A total of 252 peer reviewed research papers were identified. These research papers were furthered filtered, and a total of 44 relevant papers were eventually selected
Findings
There is a relationship between the spread of health-related misinformation and public governance. Government coordination and institutional coherence across the different spheres of governance is affected when there are multiple sources of information that are unverified and uncoordinated.
Research limitations/implications
This study was limited to a systematic review because of COVID-19 restrictions, and therefore, actual data could not be collected. Moreover, this study was limited to health-related communication, and therefore, its findings can only be generalized to the health sector.
Practical implications
Future research in this subject should consider actual data collection from the departments of health and communications to gain an in-depth understanding of misinformation and its implications on public governance from their perspective as frontline departments as far as government communication is concerned.
Social implications
Misinformation is an impediment to any fight against a public health emergency. Institutions which regulate communications technology and monitor misinformation should work harder in enforcing the law to deter information peddlers from their practice. This calls for reviewing existing regulation so that online spaces are safer for communicating health-related information.
Originality/value
Effective health communication remains a priority for the South African Government during COVID-19. However, with health-related misinformation on the increase, it is imperative to mitigate the spread to ensure it does not impede effective public governance. Government departments in South Africa are yet to develop policies that mitigate the spread of misinformation, and this paper may assist them in doing so.
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31
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Számadó S, Zachar I, Czégel D, Penn DJ. Honesty in signalling games is maintained by trade-offs rather than costs. BMC Biol 2023; 21:4. [PMID: 36617556 PMCID: PMC9827650 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01496-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Signal reliability poses a central problem for explaining the evolution of communication. According to Zahavi's Handicap Principle, signals are honest only if they are costly at the evolutionary equilibrium; otherwise, deception becomes common and communication breaks down. Theoretical signalling games have proved to be useful for understanding the logic of signalling interactions. Theoretical evaluations of the Handicap Principle are difficult, however, because finding the equilibrium cost function in such signalling games is notoriously complicated. Here, we provide a general solution to this problem and show how cost functions can be calculated for any arbitrary, pairwise asymmetric signalling game at the evolutionary equilibrium. RESULTS Our model clarifies the relationship between signalling costs at equilibrium and the conditions for reliable signalling. It shows that these two terms are independent in both additive and multiplicative models, and that the cost of signalling at honest equilibrium has no effect on the stability of communication. Moreover, it demonstrates that honest signals at the equilibrium can have any cost value, even negative, being beneficial for the signaller independently of the receiver's response at equilibrium and without requiring further constraints. Our results are general and we show how they apply to seminal signalling models, including Grafen's model of sexual selection and Godfray's model of parent-offspring communication. CONCLUSIONS Our results refute the claim that signals must be costly at the evolutionary equilibrium to be reliable, as predicted by the Handicap Principle and so-called 'costly signalling' theory. Thus, our results raise serious concerns about the handicap paradigm. We argue that the evolution of reliable signalling is better understood within a Darwinian life-history framework, and that the conditions for honest signalling are more clearly stated and understood by evaluating their trade-offs rather than their costs per se. We discuss potential shortcomings of equilibrium models and we provide testable predictions to help advance the field and establish a better explanation for honest signals. Last but not least, our results highlight why signals are expected to be efficient rather than wasteful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szabolcs Számadó
- Department of Sociology and Communication, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Egry J. u. 1, Budapest, H-1111, Hungary.
- CSS-RECENS "Lendület" Research Group, MTA Centre for Social Science, Tóth Kálmán u. 4, Budapest, H-1097, Hungary.
| | - István Zachar
- Institute of Evolution, MTA Centre for Ecological Research, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 29-33, Budapest, H-1121, Hungary
- Department of Plant Systematics, Ecology and Theoretical Biology, Biology Institute, ELTE University, Pázmány P. sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Dániel Czégel
- Institute of Evolution, MTA Centre for Ecological Research, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 29-33, Budapest, H-1121, Hungary
- Department of Plant Systematics, Ecology and Theoretical Biology, Biology Institute, ELTE University, Pázmány P. sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, Budapest, H-1117, Hungary
- BEYOND Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science, Arizona State University, AZ 85287-0506, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Dustin J Penn
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Savoynestrasse 1a, 1160, Vienna, Austria
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32
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Stoltman JJK, Marra A, Uppercue K, Terplan M. Reporting on addiction: countering misinformation about addiction, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:230-233. [PMID: 36224048 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Misinformation, or the spread of false information, can affect policy and individual health behaviors. Harm reduction practitioners and researchers have seen their work misrepresented in the media to the detriment of people in their community. Media coverage affects both public opinion and policy, which necessitates that it be informed by the current science and carefully platforms people who can speak to the science. Reporting on Addiction was formed to understand issues with media coverage and the consequences of this uninformed media coverage and propose solutions to these issues. Our "three-legged stool" approach defines this work (academic experts, researchers, community members, and the media) by identifying the problems and guiding our solutions. By working collaboratively with the media to improve their knowledge about addiction science, we aim to reduce misinformation and improve the lives of people with an addiction, in treatment, and during recovery.
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Diekman C, Ryan CD, Oliver TL. Misinformation and Disinformation in Food Science and Nutrition: Impact on Practice. J Nutr 2023; 153:3-9. [PMID: 36913465 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Food and nutrition are popular topics in the media and on social media. The ubiquity of social media has created new opportunities for qualified or credentialed experts in the scientific community to connect with clients and the public. It has also created challenges. Health and wellness gurus, or self-proclaimed experts, utilize social media platforms to garner attention through compelling narratives, build audience followings, and influence public opinion by sharing (often) misleading information about food and nutrition. The consequence of this can be the perpetuation of misinformation, which not only undermines a well-functioning democracy but also diminishes support for policies that are science or evidence based. Nutrition practitioners, clinician scientists, researchers, communicators, educators, and food experts need to encourage and model critical thinking (CT) to participate in our world of mass information and mitigate misinformation. These experts can play a vital role in the evaluation of information about food and nutrition against the body of evidence. This article explores the role of CT and ethics of practice in the context of misinformation and disinformation by providing a framework for engaging with clients and offering a checklist for ethical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie Diekman
- Food and Nutrition Consultant, Former President of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, St Louis, MO, USA.
| | | | - Tracy L Oliver
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, PA, USA
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Reamer MB. Communicating ocean and human health connections: An agenda for research and practice. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1033905. [PMID: 36530715 PMCID: PMC9755358 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1033905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of ocean and human health (OHH) science as a distinct scholarly discipline has led to increased research outputs from experts in both the natural and social sciences. Formal research on communication strategies, messaging, and campaigns related to OHH science remains limited despite its importance as part of the social processes that can make knowledge actionable. When utilized to communicate visible, local issues for targeting audiences, OHH themes hold the potential to motivate action in pursuit of solutions to environmental challenges, supplementing efforts to address large-scale, abstract, or politicized issues such as ocean acidification or climate change. Probing peer-reviewed literature from relevant areas of study, this review article outlines and reveals associations between society and the quality of coastal and marine ecosystems, as well as key themes, concepts, and findings in OHH science and environmental communication. Recommendations for future work concerning effective ocean and human health science communication are provided, creating a platform for innovative scholarship, evidence-based practice, and novel collaboration across disciplines.
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35
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Leopold SS. Editorial: The Process Is the Outcome-And it All Starts With CORR's Wonderful Peer Reviewers. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2022; 480:2281-2283. [PMID: 36599021 PMCID: PMC10538886 DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000002454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seth S Leopold
- Editor-in-Chief, Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, Park Ridge, IL, USA
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36
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Gormally C, Heil A. A Vision for University Biology Education for Non-science Majors. CBE LIFE SCIENCES EDUCATION 2022; 21:es5. [PMID: 36112623 PMCID: PMC9727605 DOI: 10.1187/cbe.21-12-0338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
As college science educators, we must prepare all future college graduates to be engaged, science-literate citizens. Yet data suggest that most college biology classes as currently taught do little to make science truly useful for students' lives and provide few opportunities for students to practice skills needed to be key decision makers in their communities. This is especially important for our non-science majors, as they represent the vast majority (82%) of college students. In this essay, we identify three critical aspects of useful college science education to prepare science literate non-science majors: prioritize local socioscientific issues; highlight communal opportunities in science that impact students' communities; and provide students with opportunities to practice skills necessary to engage with science beyond the classroom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Gormally
- School of Science, Technology, Accessibility, Mathematics, and Public Health, Gallaudet University, 800 Florida Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002
| | - Austin Heil
- Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, University of Georgia, Savannah, GA 31411
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37
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Gomes DGE, Pottier P, Crystal-Ornelas R, Hudgins EJ, Foroughirad V, Sánchez-Reyes LL, Turba R, Martinez PA, Moreau D, Bertram MG, Smout CA, Gaynor KM. Why don't we share data and code? Perceived barriers and benefits to public archiving practices. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20221113. [PMID: 36416041 PMCID: PMC9682438 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.1113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The biological sciences community is increasingly recognizing the value of open, reproducible and transparent research practices for science and society at large. Despite this recognition, many researchers fail to share their data and code publicly. This pattern may arise from knowledge barriers about how to archive data and code, concerns about its reuse, and misaligned career incentives. Here, we define, categorize and discuss barriers to data and code sharing that are relevant to many research fields. We explore how real and perceived barriers might be overcome or reframed in the light of the benefits relative to costs. By elucidating these barriers and the contexts in which they arise, we can take steps to mitigate them and align our actions with the goals of open science, both as individual scientists and as a scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan G. E. Gomes
- NRC Research Associate, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
- Cooperative Institute for Marine Resources Studies, Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State University, Newport, OR 97365, USA
| | - Patrice Pottier
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Robert Crystal-Ornelas
- Earth and Environmental Sciences Area, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Emma J. Hudgins
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada, K1S 5B6
| | | | | | - Rachel Turba
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7239, USA
| | - Paula Andrea Martinez
- Australian Research Data Commons, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - David Moreau
- School of Psychology and Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Michael G. Bertram
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, SE-907 36, Sweden
| | - Cooper A. Smout
- Institute for Globally Distributed Open Research and Education (IGDORE), Brisbane 4001, Australia
| | - Kaitlyn M. Gaynor
- Departments of Zoology and Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, BC V6T 1Z4
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
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38
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Onifade AB. Looking beyond the impressions of algorithms and fact-checking in fighting online misinformation: A literature review. EDUCATION FOR INFORMATION 2022. [DOI: 10.3233/efi-211568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Misinformation is a global pandemic, fueled by the sophistication of the human intellect, algorithmic systems among other factors. Enhanced by the proliferation of algorithms optimized for engagement and reactions on social media, misinformation has ignited or hampered sociopolitical participation and movements and dissuaded citizens from being vaccinated, for example. Observations have shown that efforts to contain misinformation have largely been tech-based, with ubiquitous impressions that it can be coded into extinction and/or fact-checked with automated tools. This paper, therefore, contributes to the debate that there are mechanisms that should be explored beyond algorithms and fact-checking in the fight against misinformation. The paper adopted an integrative literature review approach, using purposive selection of 22 full texts from Google Scholar, JStor and other sources as captured in Table 1. The PRISMA flow diagram was used to show the search process. Findings from the literature reviewed showed that algorithms and fact-checking have made significant impacts in identifying, verifying and correcting misinformation. Nonetheless, they have drawbacks that should be complemented with information literacy programs/services and information ethics. The study suggests that information literacy and information ethics be made integral parts of educational modules and awareness should be increased about non-algorithmic approaches to solving misinformation problems in order to proactively build a more informed public.
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Pandemic origins and a One Health approach to preparedness and prevention: Solutions based on SARS-CoV-2 and other RNA viruses. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2202871119. [PMID: 36215506 PMCID: PMC9586299 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2202871119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is the latest zoonotic RNA virus epidemic of concern. Learning how it began and spread will help to determine how to reduce the risk of future events. We review major RNA virus outbreaks since 1967 to identify common features and opportunities to prevent emergence, including ancestral viral origins in birds, bats, and other mammals; animal reservoirs and intermediate hosts; and pathways for zoonotic spillover and community spread, leading to local, regional, or international outbreaks. The increasing scientific evidence concerning the origins of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is most consistent with a zoonotic origin and a spillover pathway from wildlife to people via wildlife farming and the wildlife trade. We apply what we know about these outbreaks to identify relevant, feasible, and implementable interventions. We identify three primary targets for pandemic prevention and preparedness: first, smart surveillance coupled with epidemiological risk assessment across wildlife–livestock–human (One Health) spillover interfaces; second, research to enhance pandemic preparedness and expedite development of vaccines and therapeutics; and third, strategies to reduce underlying drivers of spillover risk and spread and reduce the influence of misinformation. For all three, continued efforts to improve and integrate biosafety and biosecurity with the implementation of a One Health approach are essential. We discuss new models to address the challenges of creating an inclusive and effective governance structure, with the necessary stable funding for cross-disciplinary collaborative research. Finally, we offer recommendations for feasible actions to close the knowledge gaps across the One Health continuum and improve preparedness and response in the future.
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40
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Illari L, Restrepo NJ, Johnson NF. Losing the battle over best-science guidance early in a crisis: COVID-19 and beyond. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabo8017. [PMID: 36170371 PMCID: PMC9519035 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abo8017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ensuring widespread public exposure to best-science guidance is crucial in any crisis, e.g., coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), monkeypox, abortion misinformation, climate change, and beyond. We show how this battle got lost on Facebook very early during the COVID-19 pandemic and why the mainstream majority, including many parenting communities, had already moved closer to more extreme communities by the time vaccines arrived. Hidden heterogeneities in terms of who was talking and listening to whom explain why Facebook's own promotion of best-science guidance also appears to have missed key audience segments. A simple mathematical model reproduces the exposure dynamics at the system level. Our findings could be used to tailor guidance at scale while accounting for individual diversity and to help predict tipping point behavior and system-level responses to interventions in future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Illari
- Physics Department, George Washington University, Washington, D.C. 20052, USA
| | | | - Neil F. Johnson
- Physics Department, George Washington University, Washington, D.C. 20052, USA
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41
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Mader AD, Waters NA, Kawazu EC, Marvier M, Monnin N, Salkeld DJ. Messaging Should Reflect the Nuanced Relationship between Land Change and Zoonotic Disease Risk. Bioscience 2022; 72:1099-1104. [PMID: 36325104 PMCID: PMC9618275 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biac075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A hallmark of the media publicity surrounding COVID-19 has been the message that land change causes zoonotic diseases to spill over from wild animals to humans. The secondary peer-reviewed literature sends a similar message. However, as indicated in the primary peer-reviewed literature, the complexity of interacting variables involved in zoonotic disease spillover makes it unlikely for such a claim to be universally applicable. The secondary peer-reviewed literature and the mainstream media also differ markedly from the primary peer-reviewed literature in their lack of nuance in messaging about the relationship between land change and spillover risk. We advocate accurate, nuanced messaging for the sake of the local communities at greatest risk from zoonotic disease, for the sake of scientific credibility, and so that proportionate attention may be given to other possible drivers of spillover risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- André D Mader
- Institute for Global Environmental Strategies , Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Neil A Waters
- University of Tokyo , Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
| | - Erin C Kawazu
- Global Environmental Strategies , Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Noémie Monnin
- University College London , London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J Salkeld
- Colorado State University , Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
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42
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Peters U, Krauss A, Braganza O. Generalization Bias in Science. Cogn Sci 2022; 46:e13188. [PMID: 36044007 DOI: 10.1111/cogs.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Many scientists routinely generalize from study samples to larger populations. It is commonly assumed that this cognitive process of scientific induction is a voluntary inference in which researchers assess the generalizability of their data and then draw conclusions accordingly. We challenge this view and argue for a novel account. The account describes scientific induction as involving by default a generalization bias that operates automatically and frequently leads researchers to unintentionally generalize their findings without sufficient evidence. The result is unwarranted, overgeneralized conclusions. We support this account of scientific induction by integrating a range of disparate findings from across the cognitive sciences that have until now not been connected to research on the nature of scientific induction. The view that scientific induction involves by default a generalization bias calls for a revision of the current thinking about scientific induction and highlights an overlooked cause of the replication crisis in the sciences. Commonly proposed interventions to tackle scientific overgeneralizations that may feed into this crisis need to be supplemented with cognitive debiasing strategies against generalization bias to most effectively improve science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Peters
- Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence, University of Cambridge.,Center for Science and Thought, University of Bonn
| | - Alexander Krauss
- CPNSS, London School of Economics.,Spanish National Research Council
| | - Oliver Braganza
- Institute for Experimental Epileptology and Cognition Research, University of Bonn.,Center for Science and Thought, University of Bonn
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43
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Alfaidi M, Zhang H, Oliveira SD. Fostering New Scientific Networks in the COVID Era and Beyond. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:1113-1120. [PMID: 35861068 PMCID: PMC9420830 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.317452] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 2 years, the COVID-19 pandemic has stimulated the scientific community by starting a race to develop new vaccines and therapeutic approaches to fight this life-threatening illness. At the same time, the pandemic also evoked an urge for innovative communication strategies to maintain scientific networking and data sharing among investigators. Communication through audiovisual platforms has quickly become a unique tool to sustain scientific interaction, whereas social media has turned into an unmistakable pivotal environment for sharing scientific data and combating misinformation around SARS-CoV-2 infection, prevention, and therapy. Amid this challenging scenario, the scientific community organically established new roles, such as a social media ambassador, a conference-associated role to virtually promote breakthrough science while reconnecting investigators and forging new scientific networks via social media. Moreover, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it also became clear the critical need for the scientific community to support efforts to empower flexibility, creativity, and the inclusion of new forms of communication to advance science. Thus, the goal of this brief article is to provide a structured follow-up on the importance for researchers to occupy the internet to promote scientific findings and events, to combat science mistrust by stimulating communication among nonscientists to scientists, and to provide essential strategies for young and senior investigators on how to virtually expand their professional networks within and across research and clinical areas of the cardiovascular field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabruka Alfaidi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences, LSU Health - Shreveport, LA (M.A.)
| | - Hanrui Zhang
- Cardiometabolic Genomics Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York (H.Z.)
| | - Suellen D Oliveira
- College of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois at Chicago (S.D.O.)
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44
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Mammola S, Malumbres-Olarte J, Arabesky V, Barrales-Alcalá DA, Barrion-Dupo AL, Benamú MA, Bird TL, Bogomolova M, Cardoso P, Chatzaki M, Cheng RC, Chu TA, Classen-Rodríguez LM, Čupić I, Dhiya'ulhaq NU, Drapeau Picard AP, El-Hennawy HK, Elverici M, Fukushima CS, Ganem Z, Gavish-Regev E, Gonnye NT, Hacala A, Haddad CR, Hesselberg T, Tian Ho TA, Into T, Isaia M, Jayaraman D, Karuaera N, Khalap R, Khalap K, Kim D, Korhonen T, Kralj-Fišer S, Land H, Lin SW, Loboda S, Lowe E, Lubin Y, Martínez A, Mbo Z, Miličić M, Kioko GM, Nanni V, Norma-Rashid Y, Nwankwo D, Painting CJ, Pang A, Pantini P, Pavlek M, Pearce R, Petcharad B, Pétillon J, Raberahona OC, Russo P, Saarinen JA, Segura-Hernández L, Sentenská L, Uhl G, Walker L, Warui CM, Wiśniewski K, Zamani A, Chuang A, Scott C. The global spread of misinformation on spiders. Curr Biol 2022; 32:R871-R873. [PMID: 35998593 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In the internet era, the digital architecture that keeps us connected and informed may also amplify the spread of misinformation. This problem is gaining global attention, as evidence accumulates that misinformation may interfere with democratic processes and undermine collective responses to environmental and health crises1,2. In an increasingly polluted information ecosystem, understanding the factors underlying the generation and spread of misinformation is becoming a pressing scientific and societal challenge3. Here, we studied the global spread of (mis-)information on spiders using a high-resolution global database of online newspaper articles on spider-human interactions, covering stories of spider-human encounters and biting events published from 2010-20204. We found that 47% of articles contained errors and 43% were sensationalist. Moreover, we show that the flow of spider-related news occurs within a highly interconnected global network and provide evidence that sensationalism is a key factor underlying the spread of misinformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Mammola
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Molecular Ecology Group (MEG), Water Research Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IRSA), Largo Tonolli 50, 28922 Verbania Pallanza, Italy.
| | - Jagoba Malumbres-Olarte
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; CE3C - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes / Azorean Biodiversity Group and Universidade dos Açores, Angra do Heroísmo, Azores, Portugal
| | - Valeria Arabesky
- Albert Katz International School for Desert Studies, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Israel; Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Israel
| | | | - Aimee Lynn Barrion-Dupo
- Environmental Biology Division, Institute of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences and Museum of Natural History, University of the Philippines Los Banos, 4031, Philippines
| | - Marco Antonio Benamú
- Centro Universitario de Rivera, Universidad de la República, Uruguay; Lab. Ecotoxicología de Artrópodos Terrestres, Centro Univeritario de Rivera, Universidad de la República, Uruguay; Laboratorio Ecología del Comportamiento, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas clemente Estable (IIBCE), Uruguay
| | - Tharina L Bird
- Ditsong National Museum of Natural History, PO Box 4197, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa; Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | | | - Pedro Cardoso
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maria Chatzaki
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece
| | - Ren-Chung Cheng
- Department of Life sciences, National Chung Hsing University, No.145 Xingda Rd., South Dist., Taichung City 402204, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Ai Chu
- Department of Life sciences, National Chung Hsing University, No.145 Xingda Rd., South Dist., Taichung City 402204, Taiwan
| | - Leticia M Classen-Rodríguez
- Department of Biology, Macelwane Hall, 3507 Laclede Avenue, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA
| | - Iva Čupić
- Croatian Biospeleological Society, Rooseveltov trg 6, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | | | - Mert Elverici
- Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Faculty of Science and Arts, Biology Department, 24002, Erzincan, Turkey
| | - Caroline S Fukushima
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Zeana Ganem
- The National Natural History Collections, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel; The Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Efrat Gavish-Regev
- The National Natural History Collections, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Naledi T Gonnye
- Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana
| | - Axel Hacala
- UMR CNRS 6553 Ecobio, Université de Rennes, 263 Avenue du Gal Leclerc, CS 74205, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Charles R Haddad
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
| | | | - Tammy Ai Tian Ho
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Thanakorn Into
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University, Rangsit, Pathum Thani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Marco Isaia
- Department of Life Science and Systems Biology, University of Torino, Via Accademia Albertina, 13 - 10123 Torino, Italy
| | - Dharmaraj Jayaraman
- PG and Research Department of Zoology, Sri Vijay Vidyalaya College of Arts and Science, Nallampalli, Dharmapuri-636807, Tamilnadu, India
| | | | | | - Kiran Khalap
- 5A Sagar Sangeet, SBS Marg, Mumbai 400005, India
| | - Dongyoung Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ajou University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Tuuli Korhonen
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Simona Kralj-Fišer
- Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Jovan Hadži Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Heidi Land
- University of Greifswald, Zoological Institute and Museum, General and Systematic Zoology, Loitzerstrasse 26, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Shou-Wang Lin
- University of Greifswald, Zoological Institute and Museum, General and Systematic Zoology, Loitzerstrasse 26, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sarah Loboda
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21 111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Lowe
- Department of Biological Science, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2122, Australia
| | - Yael Lubin
- Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Israel; Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, University in Midreshet Ben-Gurion, Israel
| | - Alejandro Martínez
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Zingisile Mbo
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
| | - Marija Miličić
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; BioSense Institute - Research Institute for Information Technologies in Biosystems, University of Novi Sad, Dr Zorana Ðind-ića 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Grace Mwende Kioko
- National Museums of Kenya, Museum Hill, P.O. BOX 40658-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Veronica Nanni
- Department of Life Science and Systems Biology, University of Torino, Via Accademia Albertina, 13 - 10123 Torino, Italy; School for Advanced Studies IUSS, Science, Technology and Society Department, 25100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Yusoff Norma-Rashid
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Daniel Nwankwo
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Christina J Painting
- Te Aka Ma(-)tuatua School of Science, University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
| | | | - Paolo Pantini
- Museo Civico di Scienze Naturali "E. Caffi", Piazza Cittadella, 10, I-24129 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Martina Pavlek
- Croatian Biospeleological Society, Rooseveltov trg 6, Zagreb, Croatia; Rud(-)er Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Richard Pearce
- Biodiversity Research Laboratory, Moreton Morrell, Warwickshire College University Centre, Warwickshire, UK
| | - Booppa Petcharad
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University, Rangsit, Pathum Thani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Julien Pétillon
- UMR CNRS 6553 Ecobio, Université de Rennes, 263 Avenue du Gal Leclerc, CS 74205, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France; Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | | | - Philip Russo
- Departamento de Zoologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Joni A Saarinen
- Laboratory for Integrative Biodiversity Research (LIBRe), Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Lenka Sentenská
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, ON M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Gabriele Uhl
- University of Greifswald, Zoological Institute and Museum, General and Systematic Zoology, Loitzerstrasse 26, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Leilani Walker
- School of Science, Auckland University of Technology, 55 Wellesley Street East, Auckland 1010, New Zealand; Te Pu-naha Matatini, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Charles M Warui
- Murang'a University of Technology, Department of Physical & Biological Sciences, P.O. Box 75-10200, Murang'a, Kenya
| | - Konrad Wiśniewski
- Institute of Biology and Earth Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Arciszewskiego 22a, 76-200 Słupsk, Poland
| | - Alireza Zamani
- Zoological Museum, Biodiversity Unit, FI-20014, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Angela Chuang
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Entomology and Nematology, Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Lake Alfred, Florida, USA
| | - Catherine Scott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21 111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9, Canada
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ART constraints imposed by the complexities of oocyte activation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1217-1218. [PMID: 35657455 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02525-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Duarte AC, Spiazzi BF, Merello EN, Amazarray CR, Sulzbach de Andrade L, Socal MP, Trujillo AJ, Brietzke E, Colpani V, Gerchman F. Misinformation in nutrition through the case of coconut oil: An online before-and-after study. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2022; 32:1375-1384. [PMID: 35282978 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Despite recent scientific evidence indicating absence of cardiometabolic benefit resulting from coconut oil intake, its consumption has increased in recent years, which can be attributed to a promotion of its use on social networks. We evaluated the patterns, reasons and beliefs related to coconut oil consumption and its perceived benefits in an online survey of a population in southern Brazil. METHODS AND RESULTS We conducted a before-and-after study using an 11-item online questionnaire that evaluated coconut oil consumption. In the same survey, participants who consumed coconut oil received an intervention to increase literacy about the health effects of coconut oil intake. We obtained 3160 valid responses. Among participants who consumed coconut oil (59.1%), 82.5% considered it healthy and 65.4% used it at least once a month. 81.2% coconut oil consumers did not observe any health improvements. After being exposed to the conclusions of a meta-analysis showing that coconut oil does not show superior health benefits when compared to other oils and fats, 73.5% of those who considered coconut oil healthy did not change their opinion. Among individuals who did not consume coconut oil, 47.6% considered it expensive and 11.6% deemed it unhealthy. CONCLUSIONS Coconut oil consumption is motivated by the responders' own beliefs in its supposed health benefits, despite what scientific research demonstrates. This highlights the difficulty in deconstructing inappropriate concepts of healthy diets that are disseminated in society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Duarte
- Post-graduate Program in Medical Sciences: Endocrinology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Bernardo Frison Spiazzi
- Post-graduate Program in Medical Sciences: Endocrinology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Eduarda Nunes Merello
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Carmen Raya Amazarray
- Post-graduate Program in Medical Sciences: Endocrinology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Laura Sulzbach de Andrade
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Mariana P Socal
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Antonio J Trujillo
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Elisa Brietzke
- Department of Psychiatry, Adult Division, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON, Canada; Kingston General Hospital, Kingston Health Science Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Verônica Colpani
- Post-graduate Program in Medical Sciences: Endocrinology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Fernando Gerchman
- Post-graduate Program in Medical Sciences: Endocrinology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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Peterson CJ, Anderson C, Nugent K. Continued Visibility of COVID-19 Article Removals. South Med J 2022; 115:371-373. [PMID: 35649522 PMCID: PMC9154080 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has produced an unprecedented amount of scientific research as well as a high number of article retractions. Social and news media have been used to disseminate scientific research, and this can include retracted or withdrawn research. This risks the persistence of low-quality research and may contribute to controversial ideas or conspiracy theories. METHODS We examined 34 retracted or withdrawn coronavirus disease 2019 articles using alternative metrics. RESULTS These articles continued to receive social and news media mentions up to 180 days postremoval, although most mentions occurred within 30 days postremoval. Articles available on preprint servers accounted for 45.5% of total mentions. CONCLUSIONS A significant, positive correlation was observed among Scimago Journal Rank, Immediacy Index, and Journal Citation Index, and total article mentions.
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Ciubotariu II, Bosch G. Improving research integrity: a framework for responsible science communication. BMC Res Notes 2022; 15:177. [PMID: 35570294 PMCID: PMC9107633 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-022-06065-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractResearch integrity, an essential precept of scientific inquiry and discovery, comprises norms such as Rigor, Reproducibility, and Responsibility (the 3R’s). Over the past decades, numerous issues have arisen that challenge the reliability of scientific studies, including irreproducibility crises, lack of good scientific principles, and erroneous communications, which have impacted the public’s trust in science and its findings. Here, we highlight one important component of research integrity that is often overlooked in the discussion of proposals for improving research quality and promoting robust research; one that spans from the lab bench to the dissemination of scientific work: responsible science communication. We briefly outline the role of education and institutions of higher education in teaching the tenets of good scientific practice and within that, the importance of adequate communications training. In that context, we present our framework of responsible science communication that we live by and teach to our students in courses and workshops that are part of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health R3 Center for Innovation in Science Education.
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On getting it right by being wrong: A case study of how flawed research may become self-fulfilling at last. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2122274119. [PMID: 35394869 PMCID: PMC9169707 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2122274119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding how humans process time series data is more pressing now than ever amid a progressing pandemic. Current research draws on some fifty years of empirical evidence on laypeople’s (in-)ability to extrapolate exponential growth. Yet even canonized evidence ought not to be trusted blindly. As a case in point, I review a seminal study that is still highly (even increasingly) cited, although seriously flawed. This case serves as both a reminder of how readily even experienced, well-meaning researchers underestimate exponential dynamics, and an admonition for subsequent researchers to critically read and evaluate the research they cite in order to catch and correct errors quickly rather than carry them forward over decades. Scientists prominently argue that the COVID-19 pandemic stems not least from people’s inability to understand exponential growth. They increasingly cite evidence from a classic psychological experiment published some 45 years prior to the first case of COVID-19. Despite—or precisely because of—becoming such a canonical study (more often cited than read), its critical design flaws went completely unnoticed. They are discussed here as a cautionary tale against uncritically enshrining unsound research in the “lore” of a field of research. In hindsight, this is a unique case study of researchers falling prey to just the cognitive bias they set out to study—undermining an experiment’s methodology while, ironically, still supporting its conclusion.
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Disinformation detox: teaching and learning about mis- and disinformation using socio-technical systems research perspectives. INFORMATION AND LEARNING SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/ils-09-2021-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to address some limitations in existing approaches to the study of mis- and dis-information and offers what the authors propose as a more comprehensive approach to framing and studying these issues, geared toward the undergraduate level of learner. In doing so, the authors prioritize social shaping of technology and critical informatics perspectives as lenses for explicating and understanding complex mis- and dis-information phenomena. One purpose is to offer readers an understanding of the mis- and dis-information studies landscape, and advocate for the merit of taking the given approach the authors outline.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper builds upon design-based research (DBR) methods. In this paper, the authors present the actual curriculum that will be empirically researched in 2022 and beyond in a program of iterative DBR.
Findings
Findings of this conceptual paper comprise a fully articulated undergraduate syllabus for a course the authors entitled, “Disinformation Detox.” The authors will iterate upon this curriculum development in ongoing situated studies conducted in undergraduate classrooms.
Originality/value
The value and originality of this article is in its contribution of the ontological “innovation” of a way of framing the mis- and dis-information knowledge domain in terms of social shaping and critical informatics theories. The authors argue that the proposed approach offers students the opportunity to cultivate a complex form of what Milner and Phillips describe as “ecological literacy” that is in keeping with the mis- and dis-information problem domain.
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