Scientists in developing countries should increase the quality of their research by publishing more good papers, not fewer, says Rafael Loyola.

Brains Network editor Marc Mcilhone backs open sharing in the second article on how to support online science journalism in Africa.

In the first of two articles on how to support African science journalism online, Research Africa editor Linda Nordling takes on plagiarism.

Many developing nations could see dramatic development if they funded research infrastructure, argues David Dickson.

How scientific knowledge is presented in public debate, by scientists or journalists, has a big influence on its impact, says David Dickson.

Journalists can help the developed world take responsibility for climate change by making it relevant to readers' lives, says David Dickson.

Earthquake science was not on trial in Italy — it was about inadequate information and participation in decision-making, says Carina Fearnley.

New research on public attitudes to science yields clues to communicating more effectively, says AAAS executive Alan Leshner.

To make science truly useful to development, we need a new, inclusive system of tracking publications, says S&T policy expert Caroline Wagner.

Quack science and illogical claims abound in Pakistan, says Pervez Hoodbhoy.

Countries in the region need an organised, concerted effort to strengthen scientific input into decision-making, urges Crispin Maslog.

Online technologies bring something new to science communication, but blogging has had little impact so far, argues Alice Bell.

Low levels of science literacy must be tackled by improving China's science media and encouraging scientists to get involved, says Li Daguang.

Ambitious plans for a 'desert development corridor' in Egypt could provide a concrete example of the social value of science, says Athar Osama.

The African Union's new research and innovation survey is a treasure trove of data — and deserves better reporting, says Linda Nordling.

A scientist and his or her findings are not the only factors that should be addressed by science journalists, say C. Fioravanti and L. Velho.

Have scientists and media learned from the climate change controversies of the past year, asks the Yale Forum.

Reporting on how climate change affects health is a real challenge — screen your sources and find reliable experts, says Asefaw Getachew.

In reporting swine flu, the Indian media has lost perspective, argues Kalpana Sharma, a former editor of The Hindu.