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Fuoco RE, Kwiatkowski CF, Birnbaum LS, Blum A. Effective communications strategies to increase the impact of environmental health research. Environ Health 2023; 22:47. [PMID: 37460989 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-023-00997-6] [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: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are the subject of a growing body of research with the potential to positively impact public and ecological health. However, to effect positive change, findings must be communicated beyond the scientific community. OBJECTIVE We sought to (a) evaluate the relationships between communications strategy, media attention, and scholarly citations of PFAS research and (b) offer guidance for researchers and communications professionals who would like to publicize future work and increase its impact. METHODS We analyzed 273 peer-reviewed epidemiological studies on PFAS human health impacts with publication years 2018-2020, as collected by a pre-existing database. We investigated whether a press release was issued, open-access status, abstract and press release readability, timing of publication and press release distribution, journal impact factor, study type and sample size, statistical significance of finding(s), number of scholarly citations, and the Altmetric Attention Score (a measure of media attention). DISCUSSION Of papers reporting a statistically significant association with health harm, those with a press release received 20 times more media attention (as assessed by Altmetric scores) than those that did not. However, only 6.2% of all papers and 7.8% of significant papers issued one. Among papers with a press release, media attention was positively correlated with better abstract and press release readability and speed in issuing the press release. Scholarly citations were positively correlated with media attention, presence of a press release, and open-access status. CONCLUSION Most papers with significant findings on PFAS are published without a press release and receive little or no media attention. This reduces the likelihood that important research is reaching the public and decisionmakers who can translate science into action. Issuing a press release and receiving media attention also appear to increase scholarly citations. We provide recommendations for authors to increase the reach and impact of future papers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carol F Kwiatkowski
- Green Science Policy Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA
| | - Linda S Birnbaum
- Scientist Emeritus, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Arlene Blum
- Green Science Policy Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of California, Berkeley, USA
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Zolnoori M, Huang M, Patten CA, Balls-Berry JE, Goudarzvand S, Brockman TA, Sagheb E, Yao L. Mining news media for understanding public health concerns. J Clin Transl Sci 2019; 5:e1. [PMID: 33948233 PMCID: PMC8057471 DOI: 10.1017/cts.2019.434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION News media play an important role in raising public awareness, framing public opinions, affecting policy formulation, and acknowledgment of public health issues. Traditional qualitative content analysis for news sentiments and focuses are time-consuming and may not efficiently convey sentiments nor the focuses of news media. METHODS We used descriptive statistics and state-of-art text mining to conduct sentiment analysis and topic modeling, to efficiently analyze over 3 million Reuters news articles during 2007-2017 for identifying their coverage, sentiments, and focuses for public health issues. Based on the top keywords from public health scientific journals, we identified 10 major public health issues (i.e., "air pollution," "alcohol drinking," "asthma," "depression," "diet," "exercise," "obesity," "pregnancy," "sexual behavior," and "smoking"). RESULTS The news coverage for seven public health issues, "Smoking," "Exercise," "Alcohol drinking," "Diet," "Obesity," "Depression," and "Asthma" decreased over time. The news coverage for "Sexual behavior," "Pregnancy," and "Air pollution" fluctuated during 2007-2017. The sentiments of the news articles for three of the public health issues, "exercise," "alcohol drinking," and "diet" were predominately positive and associated such as "energy." Sentiments for the remaining seven public health issues were mainly negative, linked to negative terms, e.g., diseases. The results of topic modeling reflected the media's focus on public health issues. CONCLUSIONS Text mining methods may address the limitations of traditional qualitative approaches. Using big data to understand public health needs is a novel approach that could help clinical and translational science awards programs focus on community-engaged research efforts to address community priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Zolnoori
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ming Huang
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Christi A. Patten
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Community Engagement Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Joyce E. Balls-Berry
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Somaieh Goudarzvand
- School of Computing and Engineering, University of Missouri-Kansas, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Tabetha A. Brockman
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Community Engagement Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Elham Sagheb
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Lixia Yao
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Epling JW, Mader EM, Roseamelia CA, Morley CP. Emerging practice concerning vitamin D in primary care. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2015; 25:1005-1012. [PMID: 25294350 DOI: 10.1177/1049732314554100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The establishment of practice patterns concerning the diagnosis and management of hypovitaminosis D seems to be heterogeneous among primary care physicians. We conducted a qualitative study to explore the emerging practices among primary care providers regarding screening and treatment for hypovitaminosis D, as well as factors that influence practice patterns. Trained researchers facilitated focus groups among primary care providers. We followed a grounded theory approach to transcript coding and analysis using ATLAS.ti analysis software. Testing or screening for hypovitaminosis D and subsequent replacement or supplementation practices varied among participants. Emerging practice concerning vitamin D appears to be constructed and reinforced by patient demand; incidental reading; brief, purposeful research; conversations with colleagues; results of consultations by specialists; and more patient demand. A multifaceted approach to promoting guideline adherence will be required to influence this practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Epling
- State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Emily M Mader
- State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Carrie A Roseamelia
- State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Christopher P Morley
- State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
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Wilder JR, Wegener DT, David MZ, Macal C, Daum R, Lauderdale DS. A national survey of skin infections, care behaviors and MRSA knowledge in the United States. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104277. [PMID: 25137061 PMCID: PMC4138108 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A nationally representative sample of approximately 2000 individuals was surveyed to assess SSTI infections over their lifetime and then prospectively over six-months. Knowledge of MRSA, future likelihood to self-treat a SSTI and self-care behaviors was also queried. Chi square tests, linear and multinomial regression were used for analysis. About 50% of those with a reported history of a SSTI typical of MRSA had sought medical treatment. MRSA knowledge was low: 28% of respondents could describe MRSA. Use of protective self-care behaviors that may reduce transmission, such as covering a lesion, differed with knowledge of MRSA and socio-demographics. Those reporting a history of a MRSA-like SSTI were more likely to respond that they would self-treat than those without such a history (OR 2.05 95% CI 1.40, 3.01; p<0.001). Since half of respondents reported not seeking care for past lesions, incidence determined from clinical encounters would greatly underestimate true incidence. MRSA knowledge was not associated with seeking medical care, but was associated with self-care practices that may decrease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn R Wilder
- The Department of Health Studies, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Duane T Wegener
- The Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Michael Z David
- The Department of Health Studies, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Charles Macal
- The Department of Health Studies, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America; Decision and Information Sciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Robert Daum
- The Department of Health Studies, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Diane S Lauderdale
- The Department of Health Studies, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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Merritt C, Haran JP, Mintzer J, Stricker J, Merchant RC. All purulence is local - epidemiology and management of skin and soft tissue infections in three urban emergency departments. BMC Emerg Med 2013; 13:26. [PMID: 24359038 PMCID: PMC3878171 DOI: 10.1186/1471-227x-13-26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin and soft tissue infection (SSTIs) are commonly treated in emergency departments (EDs). While the precise role of antibiotics in treating SSTIs remains unclear, most SSTI patients receive empiric antibiotics, often targeted toward methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The goal of this study was to assess the efficiency with which ED clinicians targeted empiric therapy against MRSA, and to identify factors that may allow ED clinicians to safely target antibiotic use. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of patient visits for community-acquired SSTIs to three urban, academic EDs in one northeastern US city during the first quarter of 2010. We examined microbiologic patterns among cultured SSTIs, and relationships between clinical and demographic factors and management of SSTIs. RESULTS Antibiotics were prescribed to 86.1% of all patients. Though S. aureus (60% MRSA) was the most common pathogen cultured, antibiotic susceptibility differed between adult and pediatric patients. Susceptibility of S. aureus from ED SSTIs differed from published local antibiograms, with greater trimethoprim resistance and less fluoroquinolone resistance than seen in S. aureus from all hospital sources. Empiric antibiotics covered the resultant pathogen in 85.3% of cases, though coverage was frequently broader than necessary. CONCLUSIONS Though S. aureus remained the predominant pathogen in community-acquired SSTIs, ED clinicians did not accurately target therapy toward the causative pathogen. Incomplete local epidemiologic data may contribute to this degree of discordance. Future efforts should seek to identify when antibiotic use can be narrowed or withheld. Local, disease-specific antibiotic resistance patterns should be publicized with the goal of improving antibiotic stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Merritt
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
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Dukic VM, David MZ, Lauderdale DS. Internet queries and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus surveillance. Emerg Infect Dis 2011; 17:1068-70. [PMID: 21749772 DOI: 10.3201/eid/1706.101451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Internet is a common source of medical information and has created novel surveillance opportunities. We assessed the potential for Internet-based surveillance of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and examined the extent to which it reflects trends in hospitalizations and news coverage. Google queries were a useful predictor of hospitalizations for methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections.
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Dukic VM, David MZ, Lauderdale DS. Internet queries and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus surveillance. Emerg Infect Dis 2011. [PMID: 21749772 PMCID: PMC3358097 DOI: 10.3201/eid1706.101451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Internet is a common source of medical information and has created novel surveillance opportunities. We assessed the potential for Internet-based surveillance of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and examined the extent to which it reflects trends in hospitalizations and news coverage. Google queries were a useful predictor of hospitalizations for methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections.
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Meyer E, Schwab F, Schroeren-Boersch B, Gastmeier P. Increasing consumption of MRSA-active drugs without increasing MRSA in German ICUs. Intensive Care Med 2011; 37:1628-32. [PMID: 21858520 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-011-2335-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2010] [Accepted: 07/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of our study was to analyze changes in the consumption of MRSA-active antibiotics and in the burden of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) over a period of 9 years in a network of German intensive care units (ICU). METHODS Data from 55 ICUs in Germany were analyzed from 2001 through 2009. The term "old MRSA-active antibiotics" included vancomycin, teicoplanin and fosfomycin, whereas the term "new MRSA-active antibiotics" included quinupristin/dalfopristin, linezolid and daptomycin. The burden of MRSA was defined as MRSA per 1,000 patient-days. RESULTS A total of 1,584,995 patient-days and 32,450 S. aureus isolates were analyzed. The burden of MRSA was 4.4, and the pooled mean MRSA resistance proportion was 21.8%. Both parameters did not change significantly over time. In contrast, MRSA-active antibiotics more than doubled from 44 defined daily doses per 1,000 patient-days in 2001 to 92 in 2009. This was due to the significant increase of new MRSA-active antibiotics (from 1 to 40), whereas old MRSA antibiotics stayed stable (43 in 2001 and 52 in 2009). CONCLUSION New MRSA-active antibiotics did not replace old ones, but were added on top. The use of new MRSA-active antibiotics-mainly linezolid-steadily increased over a period of 9 years, although the burden of MRSA stayed stable, as did the proportion of MRSA (%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Meyer
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité University Medicine, Hindenburgdamm 27, 12203 Berlin, Germany.
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Perencevich EN, Treise DM. Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and the media. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2011; 31 Suppl 1:S48-50. [PMID: 20929370 DOI: 10.1086/656000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
How the media communicate and how the scientific community influences the media are important factors to consider in the public health response to emerging pathogens, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Social representation theory suggests that the media link "the threatening" to commonplace "anchor representations" which can serve to educate or to create fear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli N Perencevich
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe obstacles to optimum management of gout by primary care physicians and to propose educational interventions to improve care. RECENT FINDINGS In the past, gout education has been hampered by infrequency of continuing medical education courses, loss of excitement for a disease in which therapies have not changed (until recently), insufficient evidence-based medicine, and the lack of motivation by physicians to re-learn this disease once in active practice. We identify 10 common myths that impede appropriate treatment of gout, identify gaps in evidence-based medicine that perpetuate those myths, and propose opportunities to improve education on these myths. It is through better gout-centered education that quality of care in gout can be enhanced. Residency may be one of the key points of intervention. As more evidence-based medicine publications address the optimum management of gout, national re-education can occur. More outreach by community rheumatologists to primary care physicians through educational programs and improved referral letters can help re-educate practitioners. Lastly, an often overlooked engine to change physician practices is consumer education, but current patient education programs are lacking. SUMMARY Novel education interventions for physician trainees, primary care physicians, and patients are proposed to improve the care of patients with gout.
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2010; 22:229-34. [DOI: 10.1097/bor.0b013e32833755c4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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