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Berg RMG, Hamilton KL, Murray JF, Fong P. Peer review: the imprimatur of scientific publication. Exp Physiol 2024; 109:1407-1411. [PMID: 39143734 DOI: 10.1113/ep092108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ronan M G Berg
- Centre for Physical Activity Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, UK
| | - Karyn L Hamilton
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Joanne Fiona Murray
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Peying Fong
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
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Berg RMG, Hamilton KL, Murray JF, Fong P. Peer review: the imprimatur of scientific publication. J Physiol 2024; 602:4079-4083. [PMID: 39143732 DOI: 10.1113/jp286273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ronan M G Berg
- Centre for Physical Activity Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, UK
| | - Karyn L Hamilton
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Joanne Fiona Murray
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Peying Fong
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
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Paek HJ, Oh HJ, Hove T. Differential effects of digital media platforms on climate change risk information-sharing intention: A moderated mediation model. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2024; 44:1828-1838. [PMID: 38218627 DOI: 10.1111/risa.14270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
This study analyzes the mechanisms through which risk messages about climate change lead to people's risk information-sharing intention, and how digital media platform type serves as a context that moderates those mechanisms. Our analysis is informed by the influence of presumed influence (IPI) model, and we adapt and expand that model in three ways. First, we apply the concept of perceived media reach to the context of digital media platforms, specifically news aggregators and social networking sites. Second, we integrate the two mediators of risk perception and presumed influence. Third, we examine potential moderating roles of digital media platforms in the IPI model. An online survey was conducted among 1000 South Korean adults, and a moderated mediation model (PROCESS Macro Model 59) generated the following results. (1) Perceived media reach was positively related to both mediators-risk perception and presumed influence. (2) By way of those two mediators, perceived reach significantly led to information-sharing intention. (3) Presumed influence, but not risk perception, was significantly related to information-sharing intention. (4) Digital media platforms moderated the relation between perceived reach and risk perception: the role of content-related risk perception was more pronounced in news aggregators, while the role of context-related presumed influence was greater in social networking sites. Theoretical and practical implications for risk communication are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Jin Paek
- Department of Advertising & Public Relations, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Hyun Jung Oh
- Department of Advertising & Public Relations, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Thomas Hove
- Department of Advertising & Public Relations, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
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Dijkstra AM, de Jong A, Boscolo M. Quality of science journalism in the age of Artificial Intelligence explored with a mixed methodology. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303367. [PMID: 38889134 PMCID: PMC11185480 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Science journalists, traditionally, play a key role in delivering science information to a wider audience. However, changes in the media ecosystem and the science-media relationship are posing challenges to reliable news production. Additionally, recent developments such as ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence (AI) more generally, may have further consequences for the work of (science) journalists. Through a mixed-methodology, the quality of news reporting was studied within the context of AI. A content analysis of media output about AI (news articles published within the time frame 1 September 2022-28 February 2023) explored the adherence to quality indicators, while interviews shed light on journalism practices regarding quality reporting on and with AI. Perspectives from understudied areas in four European countries (Belgium, Italy, Portugal, and Spain) were included and compared. The findings show that AI received continuous media attention in the four countries. Furthermore, despite four different media landscapes, the reporting in the news articles adhered to the same quality criteria such as applying rigour, including sources of information, accessibility, and relevance. Thematic analysis of the interview findings revealed that impact of AI and ChatGPT on the journalism profession is still in its infancy. Expected benefits of AI related to helping with repetitive tasks (e.g. translations), and positively influencing journalistic principles of accessibility, engagement, and impact, while concerns showed fear for lower adherence to principles of rigour, integrity and transparency of sources of information. More generally, the interviewees expressed concerns about the state of science journalism, including a lack of funding influencing the quality of reporting. Journalists who were employed as staff as well as those who worked as freelancers put efforts in ensuring quality output, for example, via editorial oversight, discussions, or memberships of associations. Further research into the science-media relationship is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. Dijkstra
- Department of Communication Science, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Anouk de Jong
- Department of Communication Science, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Marco Boscolo
- Formicablu, Bologna, Italy; Department of Physics, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Turoman N, Heyard R, Schwab S, Furrer E, Vergauwe E, Held L. Using an expert survey and user feedback to construct PRECHECK: A checklist to evaluate preprints on COVID-19 and beyond. F1000Res 2024; 12:588. [PMID: 38983445 PMCID: PMC11231630 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.129814.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The quality of COVID-19 preprints should be considered with great care, as their contents can influence public policy. Surprisingly little has been done to calibrate the public's evaluation of preprints and their contents. The PRECHECK project aimed to generate a tool to teach and guide scientifically literate non-experts to critically evaluate preprints, on COVID-19 and beyond. Methods To create a checklist, we applied a four-step procedure consisting of an initial internal review, an external review by a pool of experts (methodologists, meta-researchers/experts on preprints, journal editors, and science journalists), a final internal review, and a Preliminary implementation stage. For the external review step, experts rated the relevance of each element of the checklist on five-point Likert scales, and provided written feedback. After each internal review round, we applied the checklist on a small set of high-quality preprints from an online list of milestone research works on COVID-19 and low-quality preprints, which were eventually retracted, to verify whether the checklist can discriminate between the two categories. Results At the external review step, 26 of the 54 contacted experts responded. The final checklist contained four elements (Research question, study type, transparency and integrity, and limitations), with 'superficial' and 'deep' evaluation levels. When using both levels, the checklist was effective at discriminating a small set of high- and low-quality preprints. Its usability for assessment and discussion of preprints was confirmed in workshops with Bachelors students in Psychology and Medicine, and science journalists. Conclusions We created a simple, easy-to-use tool for helping scientifically literate non-experts navigate preprints with a critical mind and facilitate discussions within, for example, a beginner-level lecture on research methods. We believe that our checklist has potential to help guide decisions about the quality of preprints on COVID-19 in our target audience and that this extends beyond COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Turoman
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Heyard
- Center for Reproducible Science (CRS), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Biostatistics at the Epidemiology Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EPBI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon Schwab
- Center for Reproducible Science (CRS), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Biostatistics at the Epidemiology Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EPBI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eva Furrer
- Center for Reproducible Science (CRS), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Biostatistics at the Epidemiology Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EPBI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Evie Vergauwe
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Geneva University Neurocenter, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Leonhard Held
- Center for Reproducible Science (CRS), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Biostatistics at the Epidemiology Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EPBI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Biermann K, Taddicken M. Visible scientists in digital communication environments: An analysis of their role performance as public experts on Twitter/X during the Covid-19 pandemic. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2024:9636625241249389. [PMID: 38771041 DOI: 10.1177/09636625241249389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
In response to significant societal challenges, there is a growing demand for scientists to actively engage in public discussions. The recent Covid-19 pandemic led to the sudden visibility of certain scientists, necessitating them to extend their roles beyond research and actively communicate with the general public. Online platforms allow for direct engagement but increase the challenge by interconnecting different public arenas. Our case study examined the role performance of visible virologists on Twitter/X in six different time periods during the pandemic in Germany (N = 1003). Findings indicate that they often express calls to action, and voice their own views, but seldom address uncertainty. Differences over time were found in their use of different types of statements, scientific jargon and emotional language. They also utilised the opportunities of direct communication, performing roles like watchdogs or advocates, highlighting the importance for scientists to reflect on their roles as communicators.
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Ratcliff CL, Fleerackers A, Wicke R, Harvill B, King AJ, Jensen JD. Framing COVID-19 Preprint Research as Uncertain: A Mixed-Method Study of Public Reactions. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:283-296. [PMID: 36683347 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2164954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, journalists were encouraged to convey uncertainty surrounding preliminary scientific evidence, including mentioning when research is unpublished or unverified by peer review. To understand how public audiences interpret this information, we conducted a mixed method study with U.S. adults. Participants read a news article about preprint COVID-19 vaccine research in early April 2021, just as the vaccine was becoming widely available to the U.S. public. We modified the article to test two ways of conveying uncertainty (hedging of scientific claims and mention of preprint status) in a 2 × 2 between-participants factorial design. To complement this, we collected open-ended data to assess participants' understanding of the concept of a scientific preprint. In all, participants who read hedged (vs. unhedged) versions of the article reported less favorable vaccine attitudes and intentions and found the scientists and news reporting less trustworthy. These effects were moderated by participants' epistemic beliefs and their preference for information about scientific uncertainty. However, there was no impact of describing the study as a preprint, and participants' qualitative responses indicated a limited understanding of the concept. We discuss implications of these findings for communicating initial scientific evidence to the public and we outline important next steps for research and theory-building.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Blue Harvill
- School of Communication, The Ohio State University
| | - Andy J King
- Department of Communication, University of Utah and Huntsman Cancer Institute
| | - Jakob D Jensen
- Department of Communication, University of Utah and Huntsman Cancer Institute
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George RS, Goodey H, Russo MA, Tula R, Ghezzi P. Use of immunology in news and YouTube videos in the context of COVID-19: politicisation and information bubbles. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1327704. [PMID: 38435297 PMCID: PMC10906096 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1327704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic propelled immunology into global news and social media, resulting in the potential for misinterpreting and misusing complex scientific concepts. Objective To study the extent to which immunology is discussed in news articles and YouTube videos in English and Italian, and if related scientific concepts are used to support specific political or ideological narratives in the context of COVID-19. Methods In English and Italian we searched the period 11/09/2019 to 11/09/2022 on YouTube, using the software Mozdeh, for videos mentioning COVID-19 and one of nine immunological concepts: antibody-dependent enhancement, anergy, cytokine storm, herd immunity, hygiene hypothesis, immunity debt, original antigenic sin, oxidative stress and viral interference. We repeated this using MediaCloud for news articles.Four samples of 200 articles/videos were obtained from the randomised data gathered and analysed for mentions of concepts, stance on vaccines, masks, lockdown, social distancing, and political signifiers. Results Vaccine-negative information was higher in videos than news (8-fold in English, 6-fold in Italian) and higher in Italian than English (4-fold in news, 3-fold in videos). We also observed the existence of information bubbles, where a negative stance towards one intervention was associated with a negative stance to other linked ideas. Some immunological concepts (immunity debt, viral interference, anergy and original antigenic sin) were associated with anti-vaccine or anti-NPI (non-pharmacological intervention) views. Videos in English mentioned politics more frequently than those in Italian and, in all media and languages, politics was more frequently mentioned in anti-guidelines and anti-vaccine media by a factor of 3 in video and of 3-5 in news. Conclusion There is evidence that some immunological concepts are used to provide credibility to specific narratives and ideological views. The existence of information bubbles supports the concept of the "rabbit hole" effect, where interest in unconventional views/media leads to ever more extreme algorithmic recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hannah Goodey
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Rovena Tula
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Pietro Ghezzi
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
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Peng PC, Coleman FT. Editorial viewpoints of scientific publishing for early-career research scientists. BMC Proc 2024; 18:4. [PMID: 38229056 PMCID: PMC10792771 DOI: 10.1186/s12919-023-00286-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
While the structure and composition of the scientific manuscript is well known within scientific communities, insider knowledge such as the tricks of the trade and editorial viewpoints of scientific publishing are often less known to early-career research scientists. This article focuses on the key aspects of scientific publishing, including tips for success geared towards senior postdocs and junior faculty. It also highlights important considerations for getting manuscripts published in an efficient and successful manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Chen Peng
- Department of Computational Biomedicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA.
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Fleerackers A, Chtena N, Pinfield S, Alperin JP, Barata G, Oliveira M, Peters I. Making science public: a review of journalists' use of Open Access research. F1000Res 2024; 12:512. [PMID: 37920454 PMCID: PMC10618641 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.133710.1] [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] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Science journalists are uniquely positioned to increase the societal impact of open research outputs by contextualizing and communicating findings in ways that highlight their relevance and implications for non-specialist audiences. Yet, it is unclear to what degree journalists use open research outputs, such as open access publications or preprints, in their reporting; what factors motivate or constrain this use; and how the recent surge in openly available research seen during the COVID-19 pandemic has affected this. This article examines these questions through a review of relevant literature published from 2018 onwards-particularly literature relating to the COVID-19 pandemic-as well as seminal articles outside the search dates. We find that research that explicitly examines journalists' engagement with open access publications or preprints is scarce, with existing literature mostly addressing the topic tangentially or as a secondary concern, rather than a primary focus. Still, the limited body of evidence points to several factors that may hamper journalists' use of these outputs and thus warrant further exploration. These include an overreliance on traditional criteria for evaluating scientific quality; concerns about the trustworthiness of open research outputs; and challenges using and verifying the findings. We also find that, while the COVID-19 pandemic encouraged journalists to explore open research outputs such as preprints, the extent to which these explorations will become established journalistic practices remains unclear. Furthermore, we note that current research is overwhelmingly authored and focused on the Global North, and the United States specifically. We conclude with recommendations for future research that attend to issues of equity and diversity, and more explicitly examine the intersections of open access and science journalism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Fleerackers
- Scholarly Communications Lab, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Interdisclipinary Studies, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Natascha Chtena
- Scholarly Communications Lab, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Publishing, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Juan Pablo Alperin
- Scholarly Communications Lab, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Publishing, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Germana Barata
- Laboratory of Advanced Studies in Journalism, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, State of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Monique Oliveira
- Laboratory of Advanced Studies in Journalism, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, State of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabella Peters
- ZBW – Leibniz Information Center for Economics, Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
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Pratiwi H, Benkő R, Kusuma IY. Navigating the asthma network on Twitter: Insights from social network and sentiment analysis. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076231224075. [PMID: 38269370 PMCID: PMC10807307 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231224075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Asthma is a condition in which the airways become inflamed and constricted, causing breathing difficulties, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Social networks can have a substantial effect on asthma management and results. However, no studies of social networks addressing asthma have been undertaken. Objective The aim of this research was to identify the significant social network structures, key influencers, top topics, and sentiments of asthma-related Twitter conversations. Methods All the tweets collected for this study included the keyword "asthma" or were mentioned in or in replies to tweets that were performed. For this study, a random sample of Twitter data was collected using NodeXL Pro software between December 1, 2022, and January 29, 2023. The data collected includes the user's display name, Twitter handle, tweet text, and the tweet's publishing date and time. After being imported into the Gephi application, the NodeXL data were then shown using the Fruchterman-Reingold layout method. In our study, SNA (Social Network Analysis) metrics were utilized to identify the most popular subject using hashtags, sentiment-related phrases (positive, negative, or neutral), and top influencer by centrality measures (degree, betweenness). Results The study collected 48,122 tweets containing the keyword "asthma" or mentioned in replies. News reporters and journalists emerged as top influencers based on centrality measures in Twitter conversations about asthma, followed by government and healthcare institutions. Education, trigger factors (e.g., cat exposure, diet), and associated conditions were highly discussed topics on asthma-related social media posts (e.g., sarscov2, copd). Our study's sentiment analysis revealed that there were 8427 phrases associated neutral comments (18%), 12,582 words reflecting positive viewpoints (26%), and 27,111 words reflecting negative opinions (56%). Conclusion This study investigates the relevance of social media influencers, news reporters, health experts, health organizations, and the government in the dissemination and promotion of asthma-related education and awareness during public health information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hening Pratiwi
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Indonesia
| | - Ria Benkő
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged,
Hungary
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Centre, Central Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Centre, Emergency Department, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ikhwan Yuda Kusuma
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged,
Hungary
- Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Health, Universitas Harapan Bangsa, Purwokerto, Indonesia
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12
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Kusuma IY, Suherman S. The Pulse of Long COVID on Twitter: A Social Network Analysis. ARCHIVES OF IRANIAN MEDICINE 2024; 27:36-43. [PMID: 38431959 PMCID: PMC10915926 DOI: 10.34172/aim.2024.06] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long coronavirus disease (COVID) is a complex and multifaceted health condition with a range of severe symptoms that can last for weeks or even months after the acute phase of the illness has passed. Employing social network analysis (SNA) can rapidly provide significant health information to communities related to long COVID. This study aimed to identify the key themes, most influential users, and overall sentiments in the Twitter discourse on long COVID. METHODS Data were collected from a Twitter search with the specific keywords "long COVID" from December 1, 2022, to February 22, 2023, using NodeXL Pro. Visualizations, including network graphs and key influencers, were created using Gephi, and sentiment analysis was conducted with Azure Machine. RESULTS In total, 119,185 tweets from 94325 users were related to long COVID. Top influencers include medical professionals, researchers, journalists, and public figures, with news media platforms as primary information sources; the most common hashtag was #longCOVID, indicating that it is a significant issue of concern among the Twitter community. In the sentiment analysis, most tweets were negative. CONCLUSION The study highlights the importance of critically evaluating information shared by influential users and seeking out multiple sources of information when making health-related decisions. In addition, it emphasizes the value of examining social media conversations to understand public discourse on long COVID and suggests that future researchers could explore the role of social media in shaping public perceptions and behaviors related to health issues. Strategies for enhancing scientific journal engagement and influence in online discussions are discussed as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikhwan Yuda Kusuma
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Health, Universitas Harapan Bangsa, 53182 Purwokerto, Indonesia
| | - Suherman Suherman
- Doctoral School of Educational Sciences, Faculty Humanities and Social Science, University of Szeged, 6722 Szeged, Hungary
- Mathematics Education, Faculty of Teaching and Teacher Education, Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Intan Lampung, Indonesia
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Al-Rawi A, Jamieson K. Characterizing the Gendered Twitter Discussion of COVID-19 Hoax. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 38:3366-3375. [PMID: 36411526 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2022.2149112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We collected data from Twitter and used content analysis to better understand the gendered discussion around COVID-19 as a hoax. We identified three main categories in the inductive stage of the research: (1) sympathetic to human rights & perceived injustice, (2) invincibility and superiority of COVID hoaxers, (3) conspiracies and/or hidden agendas. The findings of the study show that among all gender groups, the first category is the most dominant (44.4%), the third category is the second most frequent (35.6%), and the last category (19.9%) is the least frequent. However, when the discussion is centered on men (40.2%) and gender and sexual minorities (GSM; 69.6%) groups, the last category is the most dominant with regard to stigmatizing GSM groups by falsely associating them with progressive secret agendas. As for women's group, being sympathetic to human rights and the perceived injustice against them during the pandemic constitute the most dominant category (51.5%). We discuss the implications of the study in the conclusion.
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14
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Blatch-Jones AJ, Recio Saucedo A, Giddins B. The use and acceptability of preprints in health and social care settings: A scoping review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291627. [PMID: 37713422 PMCID: PMC10503772 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preprints are open and accessible scientific manuscript or report that is shared publicly, through a preprint server, before being submitted to a journal. The value and importance of preprints has grown since its contribution during the public health emergency of the COVID-19 pandemic. Funders and publishers are establishing their position on the use of preprints, in grant applications and publishing models. However, the evidence supporting the use and acceptability of preprints varies across funders, publishers, and researchers. The scoping review explored the current evidence on the use and acceptability of preprints in health and social care settings by publishers, funders, and the research community throughout the research lifecycle. METHODS A scoping review was undertaken with no study or language limits. The search strategy was limited to the last five years (2017-2022) to capture changes influenced by COVID-19 (e.g., accelerated use and role of preprints in research). The review included international literature, including grey literature, and two databases were searched: Scopus and Web of Science (24 August 2022). RESULTS 379 titles and abstracts and 193 full text articles were assessed for eligibility. Ninety-eight articles met eligibility criteria and were included for full extraction. For barriers and challenges, 26 statements were grouped under four main themes (e.g., volume/growth of publications, quality assurance/trustworthiness, risks associated to credibility, and validation). For benefits and value, 34 statements were grouped under six themes (e.g., openness/transparency, increased visibility/credibility, open review process, open research, democratic process/systems, increased productivity/opportunities). CONCLUSIONS Preprints provide opportunities for rapid dissemination but there is a need for clear policies and guidance from journals, publishers, and funders. Cautionary measures are needed to maintain the quality and value of preprints, paying particular attention to how findings are translated to the public. More research is needed to address some of the uncertainties addressed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Jane Blatch-Jones
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Coordinating Centre, School of Healthcare Enterprise and Innovation, University of Southampton, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Alejandra Recio Saucedo
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Coordinating Centre, School of Healthcare Enterprise and Innovation, University of Southampton, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Giddins
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Coordinating Centre, School of Healthcare Enterprise and Innovation, University of Southampton, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
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Wang S, Kilicoglu H, Du J. A comment-driven evidence appraisal approach to promoting research findings into practice when only uncertain evidence is available. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:25. [PMID: 36973785 PMCID: PMC10042414 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-023-00969-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comments in PubMed are usually short papers for supporting or refuting claims, or discussing methods and findings in original articles. This study aims to explore whether they can be used as a quick and reliable evidence appraisal instrument for promoting research findings into practice, especially in emergency situations such as COVID-19 in which only missing, incomplete or uncertain evidence is available. METHODS Evidence-comment networks (ECNs) were constructed by linking COVID-19-related articles to the commentaries (letters, editorials or brief correspondence) they received. PubTator Central was used to extract entities with a high volume of comments from the titles and abstracts of the articles. Among them, six drugs were selected, and their evidence assertions were analysed by exploring the structural information in the ECNs as well as the sentiment of the comments (positive, negative, neutral). Recommendations in WHO guidelines were used as the gold standard control to validate the consistency, coverage and efficiency of comments in reshaping clinical knowledge claims. RESULTS The overall positive/negative sentiments of comments were aligned with recommendations for/against the corresponding treatments in the WHO guidelines. Comment topics covered all significant points of evidence appraisal and beyond. Furthermore, comments may indicate the uncertainty regarding drug use for clinical practice. Half of the critical comments emerged 4.25 months earlier on average than the guideline release. CONCLUSIONS Comments have the potential as a support tool for rapid evidence appraisal as they have a selection effect by appraising the benefits, limitations and other clinical practice issues of concern in existing evidence. We suggest as a future direction an appraisal framework based on the comment topics and sentiment orientations to leverage the potential of scientific commentaries supporting evidence appraisal and decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Wang
- National Institute of Health Data Science, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Halil Kilicoglu
- School of Information Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, USA
| | - Jian Du
- National Institute of Health Data Science, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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16
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Zeng L. Changes in health communication in the age of COVID-19: A study on the dissemination of preprints to the public. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1078115. [PMID: 36844813 PMCID: PMC9944950 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1078115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Preprints have become an important tool for meeting the challenges of health communication in the context of COVID-19. They allow scientists to disseminate their results more quickly due to the absence of a peer review process. Preprints have been well-received by scientists, however, there have been concerns about the exposure of wider public audiences to preprints due in part to this lack of peer review. Methods The aim of this study is to examine the dissemination of preprints on medRxiv and bioRxiv during the COVID-19 pandemic using content analysis and statistical analysis. Results Our findings show that preprints have played an unprecedented role in disseminating COVID-19-related science results to the public. Discussion While the overall media coverage of preprints is unsatisfactory, digital native news media performed better than legacy media in reporting preprints, which means that we could make the most of digital native media to improve health communication. This study contributes to understanding how science communication has evolved in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and provides some practical recommendations.
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Maggio LA, Fleerackers A. Preprints in Health Professions Education: Raising Awareness and Shifting Culture. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2023; 98:17-20. [PMID: 36576764 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000005001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
A preprint is a version of a research manuscript posted by its authors to a preprint server before peer review. Preprints are associated with a variety of benefits, including the ability to rapidly communicate research, the opportunity for researchers to receive feedback and raise awareness of their research, and broad and unrestricted access. For early-career researchers, preprints also provide a mechanism for demonstrating research progress and productivity without the lengthy timelines of traditional journal publishing. Despite these benefits, few health professions education (HPE) research articles are deposited as preprints, suggesting that preprinting is not currently integrated into HPE culture. In this article, the authors describe preprints, their benefits and related risks, and the potential barriers that hamper their widespread use within HPE. In particular, the authors propose the barriers of discordant messaging and the lack of formal and informal education on how to deposit, critically appraise, and use preprints. To mitigate these barriers, several recommendations are proposed to facilitate preprints in becoming an accepted and encouraged component of HPE culture, allowing the field to take full advantage of this evolving form of research dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A Maggio
- L.A. Maggio is professor of medicine and health professions education, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2997-6133
| | - Alice Fleerackers
- A. Fleerackers is a doctoral candidate of interdisciplinary studies, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7182-4061
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18
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Martinez LS, Savage MW, Jones E, Mikita E, Yadav V, Tsou MH. Examining Vaccine Sentiment on Twitter and Local Vaccine Deployment during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:354. [PMID: 36612674 PMCID: PMC9819151 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Understanding local public attitudes toward receiving vaccines is vital to successful vaccine campaigns. Social media platforms may help uncover vaccine sentiments during infectious disease outbreaks at the local level, and whether offline local events support vaccine-promotion efforts. Communication Infrastructure Theory (CIT) served as a guiding framework for this case study of the San Diego region examining local public sentiment toward vaccines expressed on Twitter during the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed a sentiment analysis (including positivity and subjectivity) of 187,349 tweets gathered from May 2020 to March 2021, and examined how sentiment corresponded with local vaccine deployment. The months of November and December (52.9%) 2020 saw a majority of tweets expressing positive sentiment and coincided with announcements of offline local events signaling San Diego's imminent deployment of COVID-19 vaccines. Across all months, tweets remained mostly objective (never falling below 63%). In terms of CIT, considering multiple levels of the Story Telling Network in online spaces, and examining sentiment about vaccines on Twitter may help scholars to explore the Communication Action Context, as well as cultivate positive community attitudes to improve the Field of Health Action regarding vaccines. Real-time analysis of local tweets during development and deployment of new vaccines may help monitor local public responses and guide promotion of immunizations in communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lourdes S. Martinez
- School of Communication, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - Matthew W. Savage
- School of Communication, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - Elisabeth Jones
- College of Arts and Letters, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mikita
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - Varun Yadav
- Department of Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ming-Hsiang Tsou
- Department of Geography, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
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19
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Ho M, Tadrous M, Iacono A, Suda K, Gomes T. Outpatient purchasing patterns of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin in the USA and Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic: an interrupted time series analysis from 2016 to 2021. J Antimicrob Chemother 2022; 78:242-251. [PMID: 36374569 PMCID: PMC10132323 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkac382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin received widespread attention after initial studies suggested that they were effective against COVID-19. However, several of these studies were later discredited. OBJECTIVES We explored the impact of scientific articles, public announcements and social media posts on hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin purchases in the USA and Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a retrospective, population-based time series analysis of retail hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin purchases in the USA and Canada from February 2016 through to December 2021, using IQVIA's Multinational Integrated Data Analysis database. We fitted the purchasing rates with interventional autoregressive integrated moving average models. We used Google Trends to identify the most influential interventions to include in the models. RESULTS There were significant pulse increases in hydroxychloroquine purchases in March 2020 in both the USA (P < 0.0001) and Canada (P < 0.0001). For ivermectin, there were no significant changes in April 2020 in either the USA (P = 0.41) or Canada (P = 0.16); however, significant pulse increases occurred from December 2020 to January 2021 in both the USA (P = 0.0006) and Canada (P < 0.0001), as well as significant ramp increases from April to August 2021 in both the USA (P < 0.0001) and Canada (P = 0.02). The increases in ivermectin purchases were larger in the USA than in Canada. CONCLUSIONS Increases in hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin purchasing rates aligned with controversial scientific articles and social media posts. This highlights the importance of scientific integrity and disseminating accurate epidemiologic information during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Ho
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mina Tadrous
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anita Iacono
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katie Suda
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tara Gomes
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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20
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Fleerackers A, Moorhead LL, Maggio LA, Fagan K, Alperin JP. Science in motion: A qualitative analysis of journalists' use and perception of preprints. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277769. [PMID: 36409723 PMCID: PMC9678308 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This qualitative study explores how and why journalists use preprints-unreviewed research papers-in their reporting. Through thematic analysis of interviews conducted with 19 health and science journalists in the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic, it applies a theoretical framework that conceptualizes COVID-19 preprint research as a form of post-normal science, characterized by high scientific uncertainty and societal relevance, urgent need for political decision-making, and value-related policy considerations. Findings suggest that journalists approach the decision to cover preprints as a careful calculation, in which the potential public benefits and the ease of access preprints provided were weighed against risks of spreading misinformation. Journalists described viewing unreviewed studies with extra skepticism and relied on diverse strategies to find, vet, and report on them. Some of these strategies represent standard science journalism, while others, such as labeling unreviewed studies as preprints, mark a departure from the norm. However, journalists also reported barriers to covering preprints, as many felt they lacked the expertise or the time required to fully understand or vet the research. The findings suggest that coverage of preprints is likely to continue post-pandemic, with important implications for scientists, journalists, and the publics who read their work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Fleerackers
- Interdisciplinary Studies, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- * E-mail: (AF); (LLM)
| | - Laura L. Moorhead
- Journalism, College of Liberal and Creative Arts, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (AF); (LLM)
| | - Lauren A. Maggio
- Department of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kaylee Fagan
- Journalism, College of Liberal and Creative Arts, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Juan Pablo Alperin
- Publishing Program, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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21
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Identifying science in the news: An assessment of the precision and recall of Altmetric.com news mention data. Scientometrics 2022; 127:6109-6123. [PMID: 36212767 PMCID: PMC9526208 DOI: 10.1007/s11192-022-04510-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The company Altmetric is often used to collect mentions of research in online news stories, yet there have been concerns about the quality of this data. This study investigates these concerns. Using a manual content analysis of 400 news stories as a comparison method, we analyzed the precision and recall with which Altmetric identified mentions of research in 8 news outlets. We also used logistic regression to identify the characteristics of research mentions that influence their likelihood of being successfully identified. We find that, for a predefined set of outlets, Altmetric’s news mention data were relatively accurate (F-score = 0.80), with very high precision (0.95) and acceptable recall (0.70), although recall is below 0.50 for some news outlets. Altmetric is more likely to successfully identify mentions of research that include a hyperlink to the research item, an author name, and/or the title of a publication venue. This data source appears to be less reliable for mentions of research that provide little or no bibliometric information, as well as for identifying mentions of scholarly monographs, conference presentations, dissertations, and non-English research articles. Our findings suggest that, with caveats, scholars can use Altmetric news mention data as a relatively reliable source to identify research mentions across a range of outlets with high precision and acceptable recall, offering scholars the potential to conserve resources during data collection. Our study does not, however, offer an assessment of completeness or accuracy of Altmetric news data overall.
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22
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Fraumann G, Colavizza G. The role of blogs and news sites in science communication during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Res Metr Anal 2022; 7:824538. [PMID: 36213935 PMCID: PMC9537683 DOI: 10.3389/frma.2022.824538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a brief review of literature related to blogs and news sites; our focus is on publications related to COVID-19. We primarily focus on the role of blogs and news sites in disseminating research on COVID-19 to the wider public, that is knowledge transfer channels. The review is for researchers and practitioners in scholarly communication and social media studies of science who would like to find out more about the role of blogs and news sites during the COVID-19 pandemic. From our review, we see that blogs and news sites are widely used as scholarly communication channels and are closely related to each other. That is, the same research might be reported in blogs and news sites at the same time. They both play a particular role in higher education and research systems, due to the increasing blogging and science communication activity of researchers and higher education institutions (HEIs). We conclude that these two media types have been playing an important role for a long time in disseminating research, which even increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. This can be verified, for example, through knowledge graphs on COVID-19 publications that contain a significant amount of scientific publications mentioned in blogs and news sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grischa Fraumann
- R&D Department, TIB – Leibniz Information Centre for Science and Technology, Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS), Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Grischa Fraumann
| | - Giovanni Colavizza
- Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS), Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Institute for Logic, Language and Computation (ILLC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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23
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Ettinger CL, Sadanandappa MK, Görgülü K, Coghlan KL, Hallenbeck KK, Puebla I. A guide to preprinting for early-career researchers. Biol Open 2022; 11:276073. [PMID: 35876380 PMCID: PMC9346271 DOI: 10.1242/bio.059310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of preprints, research manuscripts shared publicly before completing the traditional peer-review process, is becoming a more common practice among life science researchers. Early-career researchers (ECRs) benefit from posting preprints as they are shareable, citable, and prove productivity. However, preprinting a manuscript involves a discussion among all co-authors, and ECRs are often not the decision-makers. Therefore, ECRs may find themselves in situations where they are interested in depositing a preprint but are unsure how to approach their co-authors or advisor about preprinting. Leveraging our own experiences as ECRs, and feedback from the research community, we have constructed a guide for ECRs who are considering preprinting to enable them to take ownership over the process and to raise awareness about preprinting options. We hope that this guide helps ECRs to initiate conversations about preprinting with co-authors and encourage them to preprint their future research. Summary: Are you an early-career researcher considering preprinting, but unsure how to approach conversations about the possibility? Here, we discuss preprinting and provide tips to enable you to take ownership over the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra L Ettinger
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Madhumala K Sadanandappa
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Kıvanç Görgülü
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Karen L Coghlan
- George C. Gordon Library, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
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24
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Luo K, Yang Y, Teo HH. The Asymmetric Influence of Emotion in the Sharing of COVID-19 Science on Social Media: Observational Study. JMIR INFODEMIOLOGY 2022; 2:e37331. [PMID: 36536762 PMCID: PMC9749104 DOI: 10.2196/37331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unlike past pandemics, COVID-19 is different to the extent that there is an unprecedented surge in both peer-reviewed and preprint research publications, and important scientific conversations about it are rampant on online social networks, even among laypeople. Clearly, this new phenomenon of scientific discourse is not well understood in that we do not know the diffusion patterns of peer-reviewed publications vis-à-vis preprints and what makes them viral. OBJECTIVE This paper aimed to examine how the emotionality of messages about preprint and peer-reviewed publications shapes their diffusion through online social networks in order to inform health science communicators' and policy makers' decisions on how to promote reliable sharing of crucial pandemic science on social media. METHODS We collected a large sample of Twitter discussions of early (January to May 2020) COVID-19 medical research outputs, which were tracked by Altmetric, in both preprint servers and peer-reviewed journals, and conducted statistical analyses to examine emotional valence, specific emotions, and the role of scientists as content creators in influencing the retweet rate. RESULTS Our large-scale analyses (n=243,567) revealed that scientific publication tweets with positive emotions were transmitted faster than those with negative emotions, especially for messages about preprints. Our results also showed that scientists' participation in social media as content creators could accentuate the positive emotion effects on the sharing of peer-reviewed publications. CONCLUSIONS Clear communication of critical science is crucial in the nascent stage of a pandemic. By revealing the emotional dynamics in the social media sharing of COVID-19 scientific outputs, our study offers scientists and policy makers an avenue to shape the discussion and diffusion of emerging scientific publications through manipulation of the emotionality of tweets. Scientists could use emotional language to promote the diffusion of more reliable peer-reviewed articles, while avoiding using too much positive emotional language in social media messages about preprints if they think that it is too early to widely communicate the preprint (not peer reviewed) data to the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Luo
- National University of Singapore Singapore Singapore
| | - Yang Yang
- University of Warwick Coventry United Kingdom
| | - Hock Hai Teo
- National University of Singapore Singapore Singapore
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25
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van Schalkwyk F, Dudek J. Reporting preprints in the media during the COVID-19 pandemic. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2022; 31:608-616. [PMID: 35196912 PMCID: PMC9160779 DOI: 10.1177/09636625221077392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Preprints have gained prominence in the dissemination of scientific findings. This development has been reinforced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to require the rapid dissemination of new scientific information. However, since preprints usually have not undergone peer review, they lack the rigour of other scientific publications such as journal articles. This presents a challenge for the news media tasked with keeping the public informed about the latest scientific developments in the context of great uncertainty during a global pandemic. This research note investigates the reporting of scientific information from preprints in 80 news articles identified in news articles related to COVID-19 published in four South African online media outlets. Our results show that despite the publication of guidelines for reporting on preprints in the media, there is still a way to go regarding the judicious use of scientific information from preprints by the news media.
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Affiliation(s)
- François van Schalkwyk
- François van Schalkwyk, South African Research
Chair in Science Communication, Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology
(CREST), Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1 Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South
Africa.
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26
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Massarani L, Neves LFF. Reporting COVID-19 preprints: fast science in newspapers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Brazil. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2022; 27:957-968. [PMID: 35293473 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232022273.20512021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the pace of science. Many scientific data are published on preprint repositories, prior to peer review, which raises questions about the credibility of the information not yet validated by other scientists. We analyzed 76 stories published from January to July 2020 by three newspapers (The New York Times - USA, The Guardian - UK and Folha de S. Paulo - Brazil), having as topic studies on COVID-19 published on preprint platforms. The objective was to analyze how the media covered non-peer-reviewed research, in countries marked by conflicting discourses prompted by the denialist attitude of their government leaders. The results show that the newspapers did not provide a detailed explanation of what a preprint platform is, how the process of publishing research results works, and the implications of a study that has not yet been peer reviewed. The analysis also reveals how these news outlets were guided by the anxiety from an unknown disease, focusing on research on drug trials and seroprevalence. The study leads us to reflect on the challenges and weaknesses of covering fast science and the need to broaden the public's understanding of the methods and processes of science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Massarani
- Instituto Nacional de Comunicação Pública da Ciência e Tecnologia, Casa de Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz. Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos. 21040-900 Rio de Janeiro RJ Brasil.
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27
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Roy S, Edwards MA. Addressing the preprint dilemma. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 240:113896. [PMID: 34864599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Siddhartha Roy
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, 1145 Perry St., 418 Durham Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
| | - Marc A Edwards
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, 1145 Perry St., 418 Durham Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
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28
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Capurro G, Jardine CG, Tustin J, Driedger M. Communicating scientific uncertainty in a rapidly evolving situation: a framing analysis of Canadian coverage in early days of COVID-19. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2181. [PMID: 34844582 PMCID: PMC8628029 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12246-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic brought the production of scientific knowledge onto the public agenda in real-time. News media and commentators analysed the successes and failures of the pandemic response in real-time, bringing the process of scientific inquiry, which is also fraught with uncertainty, onto the public agenda. We examine how Canadian newspapers framed scientific uncertainty in their initial coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and how journalists made sense of the scientific process. Methods We conducted a framing analysis of 1143 news stories and opinion during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a qualitative analysis software, our analysis focused, first, on how scientific uncertainty was framed in hard news and opinion discourse (editorial, op-ed). Second, we compared how specialist health and science reporters discussed scientific evidence versus non-specialist reporters in hard news and columns. Results Uncertainty emerged as a “master frame” across the sample, and four additional framing strategies were used by reporters and commentators when covering the pandemic: (1), evidence -focusing on presence or absence of it-; (2) transparency and leadership -focusing on the pandemic response-; (3) duelling experts – highlighting disagreement among experts or criticizing public health decisions for not adhering to expert recommendations-; and (4) mixed messaging -criticizing public health communication efforts. While specialist journalists understood that scientific knowledge evolves and the process is fraught with uncertainty, non-specialist reporters and commentators expressed frustration over changing public health guidelines, leading to the politicization of the pandemic response and condemnation of elected officials’ decisions. Conclusions Managing scientific uncertainty in evolving science-policy situations requires timely and clear communication. Public health officials and political leaders need to provide clear and consistent messages and access to data regarding infection prevention guidelines. Public health officials should quickly engage in communication course corrections if original messages are missing the intended mark, and clearly explain the shift. Finally, public health communicators should be aware of and more responsive to a variety of media reporters, who will bring different interpretative frames to their reporting. More care and effort are needed in these communication engagements to minimize inconsistencies, uncertainty, and politicization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Capurro
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, S113-750 Bannatyne Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2M 3Y9, Canada
| | - Cynthia G Jardine
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Fraser Valley, 45190 Caen Ave., Chilliwack, BC, V2R 0N3, Canada
| | - Jordan Tustin
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Michelle Driedger
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, S113-750 Bannatyne Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2M 3Y9, Canada.
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Otterbring T, Festila A, Folwarczny M. Selfless or Selfish? The impact of message framing and egoistic motivation on narcissists' compliance with preventive health behaviors during COVID-19. CURRENT RESEARCH IN ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 2:100023. [PMID: 35098187 PMCID: PMC8686019 DOI: 10.1016/j.cresp.2021.100023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is one of the greatest international health crises in recent years. Due to the highly contagious nature of the virus, the World Health Organization has recommended that people comply with a set of preventive measures to reduce the infection rate (e.g., social distancing, wearing a face mask, thorough personal hygiene). However, people typically differ in the extent to which they are willing to comply with such recommendations, as they imply certain personal restrictions. The present study aimed to investigate whether narcissism levels and message framing strategies affect individuals' willingness to accept personal restrictions and, consequently, comply with a set of preventive health behaviors. Results reveal that people high (vs. low) in grandiose narcissism are less likely to accept personal restrictions and comply with preventive health behaviors, with negative (vs. positive) message framing constituting a more effective strategy for convincing such individuals to comply with said restrictions and behaviors. This effect can be explained through a more pronounced willingness of participants high in grandiose narcissism to accept personal restrictions to protect themselves (egoistic motivation) but not through a willingness to protect vulnerable people (altruistic motivation). Our findings suggest that individuals who remain uncooperative during pandemics could be more effectively addressed with adapted message framing strategies and incentives tailor-made for their distinct personalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Otterbring
- Department of Management, University of Agder, Universitetsveien 17, 4630 Kristiansand, Norway
| | | | - Michał Folwarczny
- Department of Business Administration, Reykjavik University, Menntavegur 1, 102 Reykjavik, Iceland
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Lu J, Zhang M, Zheng Y, Li Q. Communication of Uncertainty about Preliminary Evidence and the Spread of Its Inferred Misinformation during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Weibo Case Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11933. [PMID: 34831688 PMCID: PMC8620171 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The rapid spread of preliminary scientific evidence is raising concerns on its role in producing misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research investigated how the communication of uncertainty about preliminary evidence affects the spread of its inferred misinformation in a Weibo case study. In total, 3439 Weibo posts and 10,380 reposts regarding the misinformation of pets transmitting COVID-19 were analyzed. The results showed that attitude ambiguity toward the preliminary evidence and the stage when the evidence was first released with uncertainty were associated with higher numbers of likes and retweets of misinformation posts. Our study highlights the internal sources of misinformation and revisits the contextual perspective in misinformation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Communication Content Cognition, People’s Daily Online, Beijing 100733, China
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Q.L.)
- Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637718, Singapore
| | - Meishan Zhang
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Q.L.)
| | - Yan Zheng
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Q.L.)
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Qiyu Li
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Q.L.)
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31
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Brannon B, Buhler AG, Cataldo TT, Faniel IM, Connaway LS, Valenza JK, Cyr C. Genre containers: Building a theoretical framework for studying formats in information behavior. J Assoc Inf Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/asi.24600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy G. Buhler
- Marston Science Library University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
| | | | | | | | - Joyce Kasman Valenza
- School of Communication and Information Rutgers University Rydal Pennsylvania USA
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32
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Abstract
Since the launch of arXiv 30 years ago, modes of information spread in society have changed dramatically - and not always for the better. Paul Ginsparg, who founded arXiv, discusses how academic experience with online preprints can still inform information sharing more generally.
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Urbano C, Tafalla S, Borrego Á, Abadal E. Preprints as an alternative to conference proceedings: A hands‐on experience at
EDICIC
Iberian Meeting 2019. LEARNED PUBLISHING 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/leap.1402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristóbal Urbano
- Departament de Biblioteconomia, Documentació i Comunicació Audiovisual & Centre de Recerca en Informació, Comunicació i Cultura Universitat de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - Sara Tafalla
- Comité Organizador EDICIC 2019 Barcelona Secretaria Técnica Barcelona Spain
| | - Ángel Borrego
- Departament de Biblioteconomia, Documentació i Comunicació Audiovisual & Centre de Recerca en Informació, Comunicació i Cultura Universitat de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - Ernest Abadal
- Departament de Biblioteconomia, Documentació i Comunicació Audiovisual & Centre de Recerca en Informació, Comunicació i Cultura Universitat de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
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Fraser N, Brierley L, Dey G, Polka JK, Pálfy M, Nanni F, Coates JA. The evolving role of preprints in the dissemination of COVID-19 research and their impact on the science communication landscape. PLoS Biol 2021; 19:e3000959. [PMID: 33798194 PMCID: PMC8046348 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The world continues to face a life-threatening viral pandemic. The virus underlying the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused over 98 million confirmed cases and 2.2 million deaths since January 2020. Although the most recent respiratory viral pandemic swept the globe only a decade ago, the way science operates and responds to current events has experienced a cultural shift in the interim. The scientific community has responded rapidly to the COVID-19 pandemic, releasing over 125,000 COVID-19-related scientific articles within 10 months of the first confirmed case, of which more than 30,000 were hosted by preprint servers. We focused our analysis on bioRxiv and medRxiv, 2 growing preprint servers for biomedical research, investigating the attributes of COVID-19 preprints, their access and usage rates, as well as characteristics of their propagation on online platforms. Our data provide evidence for increased scientific and public engagement with preprints related to COVID-19 (COVID-19 preprints are accessed more, cited more, and shared more on various online platforms than non-COVID-19 preprints), as well as changes in the use of preprints by journalists and policymakers. We also find evidence for changes in preprinting and publishing behaviour: COVID-19 preprints are shorter and reviewed faster. Our results highlight the unprecedented role of preprints and preprint servers in the dissemination of COVID-19 science and the impact of the pandemic on the scientific communication landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Liam Brierley
- Department of Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Gautam Dey
- MRC Lab for Molecular Cell Biology, UCL, London, United Kingdom
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Máté Pálfy
- The Company of Biologists, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jonathon Alexis Coates
- Hughes Hall College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- William Harvey Research Institute, Charterhouse Square Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Moorhead L, Krakow M, Maggio L. What cancer research makes the news? A quantitative analysis of online news stories that mention cancer studies. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247553. [PMID: 33690639 PMCID: PMC7946182 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Journalists’ health and science reporting aid the public’s direct access to research through the inclusion of hyperlinks leading to original studies in peer-reviewed journals. While this effort supports the US-government mandate that research be made widely available, little is known about what research journalists share with the public. This cross-sectional exploratory study characterises US-government-funded research on cancer that appeared most frequently in news coverage and how that coverage varied by cancer type, disease incidence and mortality rates. The subject of analysis was 11436 research articles (published in 2016) on cancer funded by the US government and 642 news stories mentioning at least one of these articles. Based on Altmetric data, researchers identified articles via PubMed and characterised each based on the news media attention received online. Only 1.88% (n = 213) of research articles mentioning US government-funded cancer research included at least one mention in an online news publication. This is in contrast to previous research that found 16.8% (n = 1925) of articles received mention by online mass media publications. Of the 13 most common cancers in the US, 12 were the subject of at least one news mention; only urinary and bladder cancer received no mention. Traditional news sources included significantly more mentions of research on common cancers than digital native news sources. However, a general discrepancy exists between cancers prominent in news sources and those with the highest mortality rate. For instance, lung cancer accounted for the most deaths annually, while melanoma led to 56% less annual deaths; however, journalists cited research regarding these cancers nearly equally. Additionally, breast cancer received the greatest coverage per estimated annual death, while pancreatic cancer received the least coverage per death. Findings demonstrated a continued misalignment between prevalent cancers and cancers mentioned in online news media. Additionally, cancer control and prevention received less coverage from journalists than other cancer continuum stages, highlighting a continued underrepresentation of prevention-focused research. Results revealed a need for further scholarship regarding the role of journalists in research dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Moorhead
- Department of Journalism, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Melinda Krakow
- John D. Bower School of Population Health, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Lauren Maggio
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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