Comprehensive Content Analysis Research Articles

Towards an Agile-Based Integrated Management Systems Framework

Purpose: We propose an unprecedented model for incorporating agile methodology (AM) into the development of an Integrated Management System (IMS). Design/Methodology: The research design employed a literature review and content analysis approach. We identified ten distinct IMS models from academic literature and subjected them to critical cross-analysis. Additionally, we conducted an exhaustive review of seminal agile literature to pinpoint essential characteristics of both AM and IMS. Findings: The comprehensive content analysis and coding process facilitated identifying fundamental agile elements to be integrated into the proposed framework. As a result, we present an interdisciplinary Agile-based Integrated Management System (AIMS) framework. Originality: This framework draws upon insights from diverse research sources and introduces a three-level analysis perspective: strategic, tactical, and operational. Integrating IMS with AM empowers organisations to make more agile and responsive decisions concerning IMS implementation. Within this framework, the IMS backlog is defined concurrently with its development, reflecting an adaptive approach in contrast to the conventional project scope delineation.

Corporate narrative reporting on Industry 4.0 technologies: do the COVID-19 pandemic and governance structure matter?

PurposeThis research examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and governance structure on corporate narrative reporting (CNR) concerning Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies in Jordanian commercial banks. The study aims to explore how these factors influence the extent and nature of disclosures in annual reports.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a comprehensive manual content analysis method to investigate the annual reports from all 15 Jordanian commercial banks from 2010 to 2022. This approach allows for the detailed examination of I4.0 disclosures, using a specially developed index to measure various disclosure dimensions. An ordinary least squares model is used to assess the determinants of CNR on I4.0, considering factors such as the pandemic’s impact and various governance attributes.FindingsThe findings indicate that both the COVID-19 pandemic and specific governance factors (e.g. board size and audit committee size) significantly enhance the disclosure of I4.0 technologies. The study reveals that during the pandemic, banks significantly increased their level of detailed disclosures about I4.0 strategies, challenges and benefits, reflecting a strategic response to the pandemic’s disruption.Originality/valueThis study introduces a novel I4.0 Reporting Index for banks, measuring disclosures across strategy implementation, business model transformation, challenges and benefits. It adds to the existing literature by offering insights into narrative reporting practices concerning I4.0 technologies within the banking sector and illuminates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these practices.

Twitter Discussions on #digitaldementia: Content and Sentiment Analysis.

Digital dementia is a term that describes a possible decline in cognitive abilities, especially memory, attributed to the excessive use of digital technology such as smartphones, computers, and tablets. This concept has gained popularity in public discourse and media lately. With the increasing use of social media platforms such as Twitter (subsequently rebranded as X), discussions about digital dementia have become more widespread, which offer a rich source of information to understand public perceptions, concerns, and sentiments regarding this phenomenon. The aim of this research was to delve into a comprehensive content and sentiment analysis of Twitter discussions regarding digital dementia using the hashtag #digitaldementia. Retrospectively, publicly available English-language tweets with hashtag combinations related to the topic of digital dementia were extracted from Twitter. The tweets were collected over a period of 15 years, from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2022. Content analysis was used to identify major themes within the tweets, and sentiment analysis was conducted to understand the positive and negative emotions associated with these themes in order to gain a better understanding of the issues surrounding digital dementia. A one-way ANOVA was performed to gather detailed statistical insights regarding the selected tweets from influencers within each theme. This study was conducted on 26,290 tweets over 15 years by 5123 Twitter users, mostly female users in the United States. The influencers had followers ranging from 20,000 to 1,195,000 and an average of 214,878 subscribers. The study identified four themes regarding digital dementia after analyzing tweet content: (1) cognitive decline, (2) digital dependency, (3) technology overload, and (4) coping strategies. Categorized according to Glaser and Strauss's classifications, most tweets (14,492/26,290, 55.12%) fell under the categories of wretched (purely negative) or bad (mostly negative). However, only a small proportion of tweets (3122/26,290, 11.86%) were classified as great (purely positive) or swell sentiment (mostly positive). The ANOVA results showed significant differences in mean sentiment scores among the themes (F3,3581=29.03; P<.001). The mean sentiment score was -0.1072 (SD 0.4276). Various negative tweets have raised concerns about the link between excessive use of digital devices and cognitive decline, often known as digital dementia. Of particular concern is the rapid increase in digital device use. However, some positive tweets have suggested coping strategies. Engaging in digital detox activities, such as increasing physical exercise and participating in yoga and meditation, could potentially help prevent cognitive decline.

Karakteristik Fisikokimia, Kadar Gizi, Organoleptik dan Aktivitas Antioksidan dalam Es Krim Yoghurt Rosela

This study develops roselle yogurt ice cream by combining the probiotic benefits of yogurt with bioactive compounds from roselle flowers. Yogurt is produced through milk fermentation by lactic acid bacteria, while roselle flower extract is rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids known for their antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The research methods included a comprehensive analysis of physicochemical properties, nutritional content, microbiology, antioxidant activity, and organoleptic characteristics. Using a randomized complete design, data analysis employed ANOVA and the Least Significant Difference tests (P &lt; 0.05), with sensory evaluation conducted using the Kruskal-Wallis test. The results of exploring the synergy between roselle yogurt and ice cream in varying proportions (20:80, 30:70, 40:60) showed that the treatment with a 30:70 ratio of roselle yoghurt (P2) was optimal in physicochemical characteristics such as pH 5.47, total titratable acidity 0.74%, overrun 75.61%, and meltdown rate of 26.98 minutes. P2 also exhibited the highest total antioxidant activity at 137 µg/mL, with good sensory acceptance from consumers. This experiment provided an understanding of the potential of roselle yoghurt ice cream as a product that meets increasingly selective consumers' nutritional and health needs. It is hoped that these findings will stimulate the development of ice cream products that are not only commercially popular but also provide significant health benefits. Keywords: roselle yoghurt ice cream, antioxidant activity, consumer health

Assessing the Accuracy of AI Models in Orthodontic Knowledge: A Comparative Study Between ChatGPT-4 and Google Bard.

To compare the knowledge accuracy of ChatGPT-4 and Google Bard in response to knowledge-based questions related to orthodontic diagnosis and treatment modalities. Cross-sectional comparative study. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Orthodontics, Rawal Institute of Health Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan, from June 23rd to August 30th 2023. A comprehensive content analysis was designed based on a mini implant-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE), clear aligners (CA), and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), involving 30 questions for each category (total = 90) derived from recent review articles. Questions were prepared and presented to two large language models (LLMs): Google Bard and ChatGPT-4. Two independent raters evaluated the accuracy of the responses using a scoring system ranging from one to five, by comparing the answers to a standard key. Statistical analyses, including the paired sample t-test, were used to assess the performance of the two language models. GPT-4 demonstrated superior performance, outperforming Google Bard significantly in the MARPE, CBCT, and CA categories, and achieved a higher mean score. A p-value was found to be (p = 0.001) for MARPE and CBCT, while it was (p = 0.013) for CA. Overall, GPT-4 achieved a total score of 92.6%, surpassing Google Bard's which was 72%. GPT-4 is more efficient than Google Bard in providing accurate and up-to-date information regarding recent trends in orthodontic treatment modalities. Aligners, Cone beam computed tomography, ChatGPT-4, Google Bard, Mini implant-assisted rapid palatal expansion.

INTENSIFICATION OF LUXURY BRAND VALUE - A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Purpose: The current study intends to delve into the aspects that increase the overall luxury value of premium products exposing the consumer behaviour while attaining the final purchase decision. Design/methodology/approach: The study aims to provide a systematic review of the extant scholarly literature in the area. An extensive assessment of literature has been done on 111 English language articles that were well searched for on a leading database. The researchers provide detailed profiling and thematic analysis through comprehensive content analysis. Findings: Key research gaps and future research questions along with a unified framework of the complete literature review are postulated. The increase of overall luxury value leads to an upsurge in the final purchase of luxury products which is centred around few major dimensions. However, there is a lack of research over the financial aspects of consumers for luxury brand consumption which needs to be explored further. Originality: The current review study contributes to an increasing interest in luxury value dimensions, ultimately increasing the demand for luxury brands. The article highlights the future research avenues in this area supported by appropriate data.

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Potential Key Genes in Nutritional Deposition in the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio).

The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of the most important aquaculture species in China, known for its remarkable adaptability and nutritional profile. However, the specific molecular response mechanisms regulating the nutritional deposition of carp remain inadequately elucidated. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of muscle nutritional content and transcriptome data from liver and muscle tissues of three distinct carp varieties. The aim was to elucidate the key genes and signaling pathways that regulate muscle nutritional composition in carp. The findings revealed that FFRC carp (FFRC) exhibited significantly higher levels of crude fat, total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and total n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in muscle tissue compared to Ying carp (YC) and Huanghe carp (HC) (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic analyses correlated these elevated levels with a marked upregulation of genes involved in the activation and transportation of fatty acid (fabp7, acsl5, acsbg2) as well as biosynthesis and elongation of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids (elovl2, fads2) within the liver. Furthermore, the flavor amino acid, essential amino acids, and crude protein content in the muscle of HC were significantly higher than in FFRC and YC (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic analyses indicated that this was associated with significant changes in the expression of genes related to amino acid metabolism (asns, alt, ldha, glul, setd, prodh, l3hypdh, hoga1) within their muscle tissue. This research provides a theoretical foundation for the precise modulation of the muscle nutritional composition in carp.

SPA Philosophy as a Tourism Support - Case Study on Thai SPA and Bali SPA

The SPA industry, a vital component of wellness tourism, offers unique experiences deeply rooted in cultural and natural contexts. This study explores thedistinctive philosophies of Thai and Balinese SPAs, examining their contributions totourism through a comparative analysis. Thai SPAs emphasize balance and energyflow, integrating traditional Thai massage techniques, herbal treatments, and Buddhistprinciples to create a holistic wellness experience. Conversely, Balinese SPAs focuson harmony with nature and spiritual serenity, reflecting the island's Hindu-Buddhistheritage. Treatments in Balinese SPAs often use local ingredients and are performedin serene natural settings, enhancing the connection between guests and the island’scultural and natural beauty. The methodology involved a comprehensive literaturereview and content analysis of academic articles, books, and industry reports, followedby a comparative analysis to highlight the unique features and commonalities betweenthe SPA philosophies of Thailand and Bali. The findings reveal that both SPAtraditions play a crucial role in enhancing cultural tourism by offering authenticexperiences that connect visitors with local traditions and practices. Additionally, theseSPAs contribute to sustainable tourism by utilizing local resources and supportingtraditional practices, which helps preserve cultural heritage and promotes economicgrowth in local communities. The study concludes that the distinctive philosophies ofThai and Balinese SPAs not only provide therapeutic benefits but also serve as culturalambassadors and promoters of sustainable tourism. As global interest in wellnesstourism continues to rise, these unique SPA experiences will remain pivotal inattracting tourists seeking comprehensive well-being experiences, thereby supportingthe overall sustainability and appeal of their respective destinations.

A NEW ALGORITHM FOR DIAGNOSING OBESITY BASED ON INDICATORS OF BODY COMPOSITION

Introduction. Body mass index (BMI), which is measured as the ratio of body weight to height squared, is one of the widely used criteria for classifying overweight and obesity. Despite its popularity, BMI is often criticized for not taking into account individual differences in body composition and fat distribution, which can lead to inaccuracies in the classification of the degree of obesity. Aim. To develop and test a somatotype diagnostic algorithm based on the integration and comprehensive analysis of fat content, skeletal muscle mass, and fat distribution. Materials and methods. The study was conducted on a group of 82 men with different indicators of BMI. A developed algorithm was used to diagnose somatotype, which included body fat index (IBF), limb muscle mass index (IASM), and waist circumference to height ratio (WHtR). The results were analyzed and classified according to the defined criteria. Results. The proposed algorithm was tested on a sample of 82 examined men, who were divided into 2 groups depending on BMI. Thanks to our algorithm, it was possible to identify prognostically unfavorable somatotypes characterized by sarcopenia with a central type of fat distribution. These are F1S1C1 and F2S1C1 somatotypes, the total number of which was 9 examined (10.96% of the sample). Approbation of the algorithm was carried out on a group of examined men, confirmed its effectiveness and ability to detect different somatotypes, taking into account complex parameters of the body. Conclusions. Our research algorithm turned out to be a useful tool for somatotype diagnosis, especially in cases where BMI may not accurately reflect the real state of health. Taking into account individual differences in body components such as fat content, skeletal muscle mass and fat distribution, we provide a more accurate classification of somatotype and the possibility of a more individualized approach to treatment and prevention.

A taxonomic proposal for cedratviruses, orpheoviruses, and pithoviruses.

Orpheoviruses, cedratviruses, and pithoviruses are large DNA viruses that cluster together taxonomically within the order Pimascovirales of the phylum Nucleocytoviricota. However, they were not classified previously by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV). Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of the gene content, morphology, and phylogenomics of these viruses, providing data that underpinned the recent proposal to establish new taxa for their initial classification. The new taxonomy, which has now been ratified by the ICTV, includes the family Orpheoviridae and genus Alphaorpheovirus, the family Pithoviridae and genus Alphapithovirus, and the family Cedratviridae and genus Alphacedratvirus, aiming to formally catalogue the isolates covered in this study. Additionally, as per the newly adopted rules, we applied standardized binomial names for the virus species created to classify isolates with complete genome sequences available in public databases at the time of the proposal. The specific epithet of each virus species was chosen as a reference to the location where the exemplar virus was isolated.

Enron’s Collapse and the Emergence of a New Magnitude of Ethics within Corporate Governance

In this study, it is argued that the collapse of a single company – Enron – in the USA represented one of the most crucial factors underlying the emergence of ethics with a new dimension in the global business strategy. Enron, one of the most profitable companies in the USA in 1990s, experienced a completely unprecedented disaster and the ensuing investigations revealed that a lack of ethical integrity among the high officials was one of the most crucial reasons for the downfall of such an established company. Shortly after Enron collapse, a number of companies in different countries faced similar consequences and a crucial factor that they all appeared to share was unethical practices. The core aim of this study is to explore how the think-tanks in the corporate world made a quick response regarding the development of the ethical practices within the activities of corporations and how ethics gained greater magnitude within the administration of business activities. To achieve this aim, we undertook a comprehensive content analysis of the relevant secondary data substantiated by a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) attended by academics working in the field of corporate governance, in order to gain relevant insights in the study objectives. The scholarly views of the individuals who participated in the FGD, we believe, can add value to our results by enriching the study. The study findings suggest that the downfall of Enron immediately and hugely contributed towards raising the profile of ethics and the introduction of a series of ethical codes regarding corporate performances.

TikTok under Marketing Saturation: Comprehensive Analysis of User-Generated Content (UGC) Marketing

In the current information-rich digital marketing environment, TikTok is a rapidly growing social media platform, and its user base has exceeded 1.562 billion in January 2024. However, with the over-saturation of brand-generated content and social media advertising, consumers attention to brand-generated information has shown a downward trend. Gradually, user-generated content (UGC) has become a mature marketing paradigm in recent years. UGC relies on users' creativity and subjective preference, entirely in contrast to the brand's official content, and can better stimulate consumers' interest and purchasing power. This article describes the forms of UGC and its working mechanism on TikTok and also states several advantages of UGC on TikTok by comparing it with brand-generated content (BGC). The results show that UGC enhances the brand and users interaction. It is more cost-effective than official BGC and influencer marketing strategies. Meanwhile, it also discusses the challenges UGC marketing is currently facing. Through a comprehensive analysis of UGC marketing on TikTok, this article provides insights into the dual-edgedness of UGC and how it can be effectively used to drive brand growth and user engagement in a rapidly developing informational social media environment.

Content Analysis Of Textbook Evaluation: Assessing Everyday English For Hospitality Professionals

This study conducts a comprehensive content analysis of the textbook titled "Everyday English for Hospitality Professionals". Through the lens of textbook evaluation, the research aims to assess the effectiveness and suitability of the content in meeting the learning needs of professionals in the hospitality industry. Utilizing established criteria, the analysis scrutinizes the relevance, clarity, and practicality of the material, particularly in facilitating language skill development tailored to the demands of the hospitality profession. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for curriculum development and instructional material selection, contributing to the enhancement of English language learning experiences for hospitality professionals.

Nyerere’s Philosophy of Education for Self-Reliance and Its Implications for Enhancing the Socio-Economic Dimension of Current Kenyan University Education

While considerable attention has been devoted to exploring the potential of higher education in driving economic development, comparatively less focus has been directed towards its role in nurturing social imperatives associated with education. In the same vein, the economic benefits of a university degree in Kenya have been emphasised, while the social relevance of serving society has not received enough attention. In order to strengthen the social and economic paradigms of higher education in Kenya, the article examine the unique contribution of Nyerere's philosophy of education for self-reliance in the realm of African educational philosophies. The purpose of this study was to analyse what educational implications Kenyan universities can adopt from Nyerere's education for self-reliance philosophy using a literature-based research approach. The methodology of the study used was a multifaceted technique that comprised a literature review, conceptual analysis, a comprehensive content analysis and triangulation for evaluating relevant books, research studies, scholarly works and official papers about the socio-economic role of university education and Nyerere's philosophy of education. The study's findings indicated that the Nyerere educational philosophy, which is characterized by its invaluable lessons on the roles of the teacher, curriculum development, and the purpose of university education, may have beneficial implications on Kenyan university education. The socio-economic dimensions of university education emphasize enhancing society through problem-solving, community engagement, and career-oriented learning. The study also underscored the vital need for training for jobs in both white-collar and blue-collar fields by universities, the incorporation of problem-solving skills relevant to the 21st century, on-going professional development, and benchmarking. These recommendations could be the cornerstone of socio-economic education reforms at Kenyan universities, which could prepare its youth for the dynamic opportunities of the twenty-first century, positioning Kenya as a forerunner in the global advancement of socio-economic dimension of university education.

Evaluating the impact of delayed centrifugation on protein profiles analyzed by LC/MS in serum and plasma samples

The pre-analytical steps in blood-based liquid biopsy, involving sample collection techniques and storage conditions, play a critical role in ensuring the integrity and reliability of collected samples. These steps have a directly impact on the accuracy and reliability of test results and are therefore of utmost importance. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics is an exceptionally powerful tool in the field of liquid biopsy. It enables the comprehensive analysis of the protein content within biological specimens, providing valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms and pathogenesis of diseases. In this study, we aim to explore the variations in the protein landscape between serum and plasma specimens and evaluate the impact of delayed centrifugation on LC/MS-analyzed protein profiles. We seek to provide recommendations on optimal pre-analytical protocols for MS-based proteomics studies. This will enhance the accuracy and reliability of liquid biopsy for precision medicine, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.

AGILE WORK CULTURES IN IT: A CONCEPTUAL ANALYSIS OF HR'S ROLE IN FOSTERING INNOVATION SUPPLY CHAIN

This study systematically examines the role of Human Resources (HR) in fostering agile work cultures within the Information Technology (IT) sector, with a focus on enhancing the innovation supply chain. Through a comprehensive literature review and content analysis, this research explores how HR practices can support and drive the adoption of agile methodologies, thereby contributing to organizational flexibility, innovation, and competitive advantage. The methodology involved sourcing data from academic databases and grey literature, employing a strategic search strategy, and applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify relevant literature. The analysis highlighted the critical role of HR in developing agile leadership, fostering a culture of continuous learning and psychological safety, and leveraging HR technologies to enhance workforce agility. Key findings reveal that HR's strategic interventions in leadership development, learning and development frameworks, and the promotion of agile team dynamics are essential in cultivating an agile work culture. Furthermore, the study anticipates future challenges and opportunities in agile work cultures, including the integration of remote work models, artificial intelligence, and ensuring diversity and inclusion. Strategic recommendations for HR leaders and IT executives emphasize the importance of investing in agile leadership, enhancing team dynamics, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. Finally, the study underscores the pivotal role of HR in enabling agile transformations within IT sectors. Future research directions include exploring the impact of emerging technologies on agile methodologies and the role of HR in fostering inclusive and diverse agile teams. This research contributes to the understanding of how agile practices supported by HR innovations can drive organizational success in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.&#x0D; Keywords: Agile Work Cultures, Human Resources (HR), Information Technology (IT) Innovation, Agile Leadership Development.

A big little fiction form: last decade of production and circulation of made-for-TV movies in Europe

ABSTRACT Made-for-television movies, originating as popular television forms in the 1960s, have historically received scant scholarly attention and faced persistent devaluation within the film industry. However, the contemporary landscape witnesses a resurgence in interest, catalyzed by the focus of VOD services on long-form fiction tailored for streaming, commonly referred to as “originals.” This paper conducts a retrospective examination of the past decade, scrutinizing the presence of made-for-television movies within general television and accentuating their intrinsic value by investigating intra-European circulation flows. Through comprehensive content analysis of general-interest channel schedules in five prominent European countries, this study explores the nuances of production, circulation dynamics, and the influence of public corporations in this scenario. The findings reveal distinctive circulation patterns characterized by continual European exchanges, setting made-for-TV movies apart from TV series, particularly on public channels. Notably, a select cluster of large European countries emerges as pivotal players dominating these intra-European flows.

A comprehensive bibliometric and content analysis of artificial intelligence in language learning: tracing between the years 2017 and 2023

The rising pervasiveness of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has led applied linguists to combine it with language teaching and learning processes. In many cases, such implementation has significantly contributed to the field. The retrospective amount of literature dedicated on the use of AI in language learning (LL) is overwhelming. Thus, the objective of this paper is to map the existing literature on Artificial Intelligence in language learning through bibliometric and content analysis. From the Scopus database, we systematically explored, after keyword refinement, the prevailing literature of AI in LL. After excluding irrelevant articles, we conducted our study with 606 documents published between 2017 and 2023 for further investigation. This review reinforces our understanding by identifying and distilling the relationships between the content, the contributions, and the contributors. The findings of the study show a rising pattern of AI in LL. Along with the metrics of performance analysis, through VOSviewer and R studio (Biblioshiny), our findings uncovered the influential authors, institutions, countries, and the most influential documents in the field. Moreover, we identified 7 clusters and potential areas of related research through keyword analysis. In addition to the bibliographic details, this review aims to elucidate the content of the field. NVivo 14 and Atlas AI were used to perform content analysis to categorize and present the type of AI used in language learning, Language learning factors, and its participants.

Analyzing the Portrayal of Political Leadership in Leading Pakistani News Channels : A Critical Analysis

This study focuses on the framing theory as a lens to analyze the coverage and frames of political parties by two prominent news channels, Dunya News and Geo News. A comprehensive content analysis spanning over three months was conducted to assess the frequency, story types, frames, and tone of news coverage related to political leaders from 1st Sep 2023 to 20th Dec 2023 through purposive sampling. For this purpose, five themes, party manifesto, and plans, leader’s character, past performance of the party, voting worth, bias, and victimization were designed to explore the study’s objectives. The findings indicate a notable disparity in the salience given to political parties, with both news channels showing a higher emphasis on PMLN compared to PTI and PPP. Furthermore, the results reveal that Nawaz Sharif, received more favorable coverage from both news channels, followed by Imran Khan. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari receives comparable coverage to Imran Khan on Dunya News but notably less on Geo News. Additionally, the majority of the stance from these news channels leans in favor of PMLN leader Nawaz Sharif, while PTI leader Imran Khan tends to receive a more negative stance across both channels. A frames-wise analysis uncovers that Dunya News provides a more diverse range of perspectives when portraying political leaders, encompassing frames such as party manifesto, party previous performance, and voting worth, in contrast to Geo News, which maintains a more consistent distribution of emphasis across different frames. Findings also revealed that Nawaz Sharif’s frames prominently centered on the manifesto category. On the other hand, Imran Khan received coverage under the attributes of leaders’ character while party performance was a common attribute covered related to politicians.

The Quality of COVID-19 Coverage: Investigating Relevance and Viewpoint Diversity in German Mainstream and Alternative Media

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic was a major challenge for journalism. In the case of Germany, critics very early on voiced concerns over the quality of mainstream media coverage. Mainstream media were attacked for the intensity of their coverage, for reporting too much and unnecessarily frightening audiences, for not presenting a diversity of viewpoints on the pandemic and the measures taken to mitigate it, and for being one-sided and too close to the government. Against this background, this paper examines the intensity and viewpoint diversity of the coverage of 13 mainstream and two alternative media in Germany in 2020 and 2021. Based on a comprehensive manual content analysis of almost 9000 news stories, we conclude that the mainstream media did not cover the pandemic in a fundamentally exaggerated or one-sided way. However, they did not always report intensively when the pandemic was particularly severe, and they tended to warn against the pandemic rather than criticize the measures taken. In contrast, alternative media coverage tended to be more one-sided and generally biased against government measures.