Project: An Epidemiology of Information
https://flu1918.lib.vt.edu/about
“The project consisted of four case studies that integrated traditional interpretive analysis (close readings of texts) with two computational methods: dynamic temporal segmentation (topic modeling and segmentation) and tone analysis. We developed a dynamic temporal segmentation algorithm that automatically partitions the total time period defined by the documents in the collection such that segment boundaries indicate important periods of temporal evolution and re-organization. The goal of tone analysis was to use computational analysis to interpret some forms of textual meaning, thereby giving humanities and social science researchers the ability to automate the analysis of textual sentiment in large datasets.” (an epidemiology of information)
4 Case Studies
Weekly Newspapers Case Study
Daily Newspapers Case Study
Vaccination-Visualization Case Study
Public Health Officials Case Study
What is Epidemiology?
“Epidemiology is the branch of medical science that investigates all the factors that determine the presence or absence of diseases and disorders. Epidemiological research helps us to understand how many people have a disease or disorder, if those numbers are changing, and how the disorder affects our society and our economy.” (NIH)
What is Influenza?
“Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.” (CDC)