TopicTracker – An advanced software pipeline for text mining on PubMed data: Bridging the gap between off-the-shelf tools and code based approaches

Abstract

Background: The ever-increasing volume of academic literature necessitates efficient and sophisticated tools for researchers to analyze, interpret, and uncover trends. Traditional search methods, while valuable, often fail to capture the nuance and interconnectedness of vast research domains. Results: TopicTracker, a novel software tool, addresses this gap by providing a comprehensive solution from querying PubMed databases to creating intricate semantic network maps. Through its functionalities, users can systematically search for desired literature, analyze trends, and visually represent co-occurrences in a given field. Our case studies, including support for the WHO on ethical considerations in infodemic management and mapping the evolution of ethics pre- and post-pandemic, underscore the tool's applicability and precision. Conclusions: TopicTracker represents a significant advancement in academic research tools for text mining. While it has its limitations, primarily tied to its alignment with PubMed, its benefits far outweigh the constraints. As the landscape of research continues to expand, tools like TopicTracker may be instrumental in guiding scholars in their pursuit of knowledge, ensuring they navigate the large amount of literature with clarity and precision.