Amy Zarzeczny1, Claire Tanner2, Jan Barfoot3, Clare Blackburn3, Anna Couturier3, Megan Munsie2. 1. Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Regina, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada. 2. Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience, Center for Stem Cell Systems, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. 3. EuroStemCell, MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK.
Abstract
Aim: This study examines online enquiries received by two prominent stem cell science initiatives operating in different geographical jurisdictions. Materials & methods: Combined quantitative and qualitative analysis undertaken of internet-based queries (n = 1047) received by Stem Cells Australia and EuroStemCell from members of the public over a two-year period (May 2014-2016). Results: Findings reveal striking similarities between the two datasets and highlight the range of uncertainties, priorities and needs of those seeking information about stem cells online. Conclusion: Sustained and in-depth tailored guidance is needed to effectively meet the diverse stem cell-related information-based needs of communities internationally. Such efforts should be prioritized by regenerative medicine research initiatives and organizations, given the trust and hope diverse publics appear to place in these groups.
Aim: This study examines online enquiries received by two prominent stem cell science initiatives operating in different geographical jurisdictions. Materials & methods: Combined quantitative and qualitative analysis undertaken of internet-based queries (n = 1047) received by Stem Cells Australia and EuroStemCell from members of the public over a two-year period (May 2014-2016). Results: Findings reveal striking similarities between the two datasets and highlight the range of uncertainties, priorities and needs of those seeking information about stem cells online. Conclusion: Sustained and in-depth tailored guidance is needed to effectively meet the diverse stem cell-related information-based needs of communities internationally. Such efforts should be prioritized by regenerative medicine research initiatives and organizations, given the trust and hope diverse publics appear to place in these groups.
Authors: Zubin Master; Shane A Shapiro; Jennifer R Arthurs; Lisa M Nordan; Brian H Hultgren; Michael G Heckman; Dayana Martinez Journal: NPJ Regen Med Date: 2022-03-25