1
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Liu X, Guo Y, Gao W, Xie Y, Zhao H, Du J. Current situation and influence factors of scientific integrity in China: A multicenter survey. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2024; 11:100365. [PMID: 38304226 PMCID: PMC10831262 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Cases of scientific misconduct have occurred frequently, especially in the field of medical research. We collected electronic questionnaires from 1257 medical staff in 43 cities and obtained a cross-sectional data set of their understanding of scientific integrity in research. This study aims to propose recommendations for establishing a mature oversight system for research integrity. Methods The study employed multiple regression analysis to explore the effect of different factors on the perception of four types of research integrity. Results Female participants had a higher understanding of project application integrity than men (P < 0.001). Participants in clinical departments had a lower understanding of project application integrity than those in nursing departments (clinical vs. nursing, P = 0.046). Participants with a junior college degree or below had a lower understanding than those who had a postgraduate degree and doctoral degree (junior college or below vs. postgraduate degree, P < 0.001; junior college or below vs. doctoral degree, P < 0.001). Conclusions We found that female, medical technology department, advanced education background, and advanced professional titles were significantly associated with a higher understanding of scientific integrity in research in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinqiao Liu
- School of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuxin Guo
- School of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenjuan Gao
- Institute of Higher Education, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Xie
- Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Office of Academic Research, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Beijing, China
| | - Heling Zhao
- Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Office of Academic Research, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Du
- Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Office of Academic Research, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Beijing, China
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2
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Tang L, Wang L, Hu G. Research Misconduct Investigations in China's Science Funding System. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2023; 29:39. [PMID: 37991609 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-023-00459-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
As stewards of public money, government funding agencies have the obligation and responsibility to uphold the integrity of funded research. Despite an increasing amount of empirical studies examining research-related misconduct, a majority of these studies focus on retracted publications. How agencies spot funding-relevant wrongdoing and what sanctions the offenders face remain largely unexplored. This is particularly true for public funding agencies in emerging science powers. To amend this oversight, we retrieved and analyzed all publicized investigation results from China's largest basic research funding agency over the period from 2005 to 2021. Our findings reveal that both the "police patrol" and "fire alarm" approaches are used to identify misconduct and deter funding-related fraud in China. The principal triggers for investigations are journal article retractions, whistleblowing, and plagiarism detection software. Among the six funding-related misconduct types publicized and punished, the top three are: (1) fraudulent papers, (2) information fabrication and/or falsification in the research proposal, and (3) proposal plagiarism. The most common administrative sanctions are debarment and reclamation of grants. This article argues that more systematic research and cooperation among stakeholders is needed to cultivate research integrity in emerging science powers like China. Specific training and education should be provided for young scientists to help them avoid the pitfall of academic misconduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tang
- School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Linan Wang
- Shanghai Health Development Research Center, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Guangyuan Hu
- School of Public Economics and Administration, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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3
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Liu X, Wang X, Wu Y, Yu H, Yang M, Khoshnood K, Luo E, Wang X. Knowledge and attitudes of Chinese medical postgraduates toward research ethics and research ethics committees: a cross-sectional study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:482. [PMID: 37380977 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04459-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research ethics provides the ethical standards for conducting sound and safe research. The field of medical research in China is rapidly growing and facing various ethical challenges. However, in China, little empirical research has been conducted on the knowledge and attitudes of medical postgraduates toward research ethics and RECs. It is critical for medical postgraduates to develop a proper knowledge of research ethics at the beginning of their careers. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge and attitudes of medical postgraduates toward research ethics and RECs. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2021 at a medical school and two affiliated hospitals in south-central China. The instrument of the study was an online survey that was distributed via WeChat. RESULTS We found that only 46.7% were familiar with the ethical guidelines for research with human subjects. In addition, 63.2% of participants were familiar with the RECs that reviewed their research, and 90.7% perceived RECs as helpful. However, only 36.8% were fully aware of the functions of RECs. In the meantime, 30.7% believed that review by an REC would delay research and make it more difficult for researchers. Furthermore, most participants (94.9%) believed that a course on research ethics should be mandatory for medical postgraduates. Finally, 27.4% of the respondents considered the fabrication of some data or results to be acceptable. CONCLUSION This paper serves to suggest that research ethics education should be prioritized in medical ethics curriculum, and course syllabi or teaching methods should be revised to provide medical postgraduates with a deeper understanding of the principles, regulations, and specifics of research ethics. We also recommend that RECs provide diverse approaches in their review procedure to facilitate the understanding of medical postgraduates of the functions and processes of RECs and to enhance their awareness of research integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Liu
- Medical Ethics Committee, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianxiong Wang
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410012, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Wu
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410012, People's Republic of China
| | - Haitao Yu
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410012, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Yang
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaveh Khoshnood
- Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Esther Luo
- Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Bricker-Anthony C, Herzog RW. Distortion of journal impact factors in the era of paper mills. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1503-1504. [PMID: 37236186 PMCID: PMC10277921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Roland W Herzog
- Molecular Therapy and Department of Pediatrics, Gene and Cell Therapy Program, Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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5
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Vogel KM, Ouagrham-Gormley SB. Scientists as spies?: Assessing U.S. claims about the security threat posed by China's Thousand Talents Program for the U.S. life sciences. Politics Life Sci 2023; 42:32-64. [PMID: 37140223 DOI: 10.1017/pls.2022.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In 2008, the Chinese government created the Thousand Talents Program (TTP) to recruit overseas expertise to build up China's science and technology knowledge and innovation base. Ten years later, in 2018, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced a new "China Initiative" that aimed to counter the transfer by U.S.-based scientists involved in the TTP of knowledge and intellectual property that could support China's military and economic might and pose threats to U.S. national security. This initiative launched a number of investigations into major U.S. federal funding agencies and universities and charged several scientists, many of them life scientists, with failing to accurately report their work and affiliations with Chinese entities and illegally transferring scientific information to China. Although the FBI cases demonstrate a clear problem with disclosure of foreign contracts and research integrity among some TTP recipients, they have failed to demonstrate any harm to U.S. national security interests. At the heart of this controversy are core questions that remain unresolved and need more attention: What is required to transfer and develop knowledge to further a country's science and technology ambitions? And can the knowledge acquired by a visiting scientist be easily used to further a country's ambitions? Drawing on literature from the field of science and technology studies, this article discusses the key issues that should be considered in evaluating this question in the Chinese context and the potential scientific, intelligence, and policy implications of knowledge transfer as it relates to the TTP.
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6
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He C, Xu J, Zhou L. Understanding China's construction of an academic integrity system: A grounded theory study on national level policies. LEARNED PUBLISHING 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/leap.1540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chen He
- School of Information Management Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Jie Xu
- School of Information Management Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Lihong Zhou
- School of Information Management Wuhan University Wuhan China
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7
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Cao Y, Jiang Y, Zhao Y. A study on the content of integrity policies and research integrity management in Chinese universities. Front Res Metr Anal 2023; 8:943228. [PMID: 36844756 PMCID: PMC9950633 DOI: 10.3389/frma.2023.943228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study outlines a comprehensive analysis of the primary characteristics of managing research integrity (RI) in domestic colleges and universities in China. RI education in China consists primarily of soft advocacy, with no hard requirements or continuous and systematic support. Together with other stakeholders, such as funders and publishers, higher education institutions (e.g., colleges and universities) are one of the vital actors that have a lot of influence on RI promotion and implementation among researchers. However, the literature on the regulation of RI policies in China's universities is limited. Methods We investigate the top 50 colleges and universities in the 2021 Best Chinese Universities Ranking. Their guidance and policy documents on RI were collected via their official websites. By integrating the use of scientometrics analysis, including descriptive statistical analysis, inductive content analysis, and quantitative analysis, we examine whether and how these higher education institutions respond to national policies in a timely manner, especially in terms of their frequency of updates, topic clustering analysis, terms clustering analysis, content aggregation. To further understand the composition mechanism and the main working systems of university RI management organizations, we conducted in-depth research on the organizational functions, meeting system, staff composition mechanism, and scientific research misconduct acceptance and investigation mechanisms. Results The regulations on the treatment of RI in China's universities have, in response to the government's call to establish their own management policies and working mechanisms, maintained a zero-tolerance stance on research misconduct. The sampled universities listed the definition and principles of misconduct practices, investigation procedures, and sanctions of research misconduct in their own policy documents. Some of them listed inappropriate research practices All 50 sampled universities have formed relevant organizations responsible for RI management, they all provide the detailed regulations of the committees. Yet, there is still a need to further define Questionable Research Practice, foster higher standards for integrity in research and, establish and improve an efficient, authoritative, well-restrained and supervision working mechanism for organizations responsible for RI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Cao
- Library of China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuwei Jiang
- Library of China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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8
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Zhang H. Chinese institutions should be more proactive and transparent in promoting research integrity: A perspective. Front Res Metr Anal 2022; 7:999182. [DOI: 10.3389/frma.2022.999182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
China has significantly endeavored to promote research integrity. Institutions, which have been identified as the primarily responsible entity, face challenges and concerns of compliance, quality, and low efficiency. In this perspective, the problems and root causes of these challenging concerns are clarified from the Chinese viewpoint. In conclusion, the opinion that institutions should be more proactive and transparent in promoting research integrity is discussed. A practical suggestion is proposed, including team building, policy innovation, capacity building, researcher empowerment, and experience sharing.
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9
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Wang X. Scientific research information management based on blockchain technology. JOURNAL OF HIGH SPEED NETWORKS 2022. [DOI: 10.3233/jhs-220681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
As a supporting technology of Bitcoin to achieve the function of account management, blockchain technology has received extensive attention from all walks of life, especially in the financial field. Based on the successful experience of blockchain in the application of digital cryptocurrency, blockchain technology has also exerted an important influence on some aspects of scientific research information management, such as declaration, implementation, and conclusion. Thus, for resolving the problems of academic misconduct in scientific research information management, blockchain technology can be targeted for improvement according to each link of information management to improve the security of the management system. Combining the existing achievements and requirements in real applications, this paper explains characteristics of the blockchain technology and analyzes its disadvantages in scientific research information management compared with the traditional methods. Finally, this paper puts forward some suggestions for applications to provide a reference for the effective application of blockchain technology in scientific research information management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodi Wang
- Shandong University of Finance and Economics, Jinan, China
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10
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Shu F, Liu S, Larivière V. China's Research Evaluation Reform: What are the Consequences for Global Science? MINERVA 2022; 60:329-347. [PMID: 35530168 PMCID: PMC9054502 DOI: 10.1007/s11024-022-09468-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In the 1990s, China created a research evaluation system based on publications indexed in the Science Citation Index (SCI) and on the Journal Impact Factor. Such system helped the country become the largest contributor to the scientific literature and increased the position of Chinese universities in international rankings. Although the system had been criticized by many because of its adverse effects, the policy reform for research evaluation crawled until the breakout of the COVID-19 pandemic, which accidently accelerates the process of policy reform. This paper highlights the background and principles of this reform, provides evidence of its effects, and discusses the implications for global science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Shu
- Chinese Academy of Science and Education Evaluation, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang China
- École de bibliothéconomie et des sciences de l’information, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec Canada
| | - Sichen Liu
- Chinese Academy of Science and Education Evaluation, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang China
| | - Vincent Larivière
- École de bibliothéconomie et des sciences de l’information, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec Canada
- Observatoire des sciences et des technologies, Centre interuniversitaire de recherche sur la science et la technologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec Canada
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11
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Fighting Against Academic Misconduct: What Can Scientometricians Do? JOURNAL OF DATA AND INFORMATION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/jdis-2022-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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12
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Abstract
Despite recent progress, challenges remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tang
- School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
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13
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Yang LL, Xu SY, Yang ZY, Zhao ZY, Shu Q. Journal's responsibility in maintaining scientific integrity. World J Pediatr 2022; 18:1-3. [PMID: 34982401 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-021-00493-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Yang
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, National Children's Regional Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Si-Yun Xu
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, National Children's Regional Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Zhi-Yi Yang
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, National Children's Regional Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Zheng-Yan Zhao
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, National Children's Regional Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China.
| | - Qiang Shu
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, National Children's Regional Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China.
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14
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Shi Q, Wang Z, Zhou Q, Hou R, Gao X, He S, Zhao S, Ma Y, Zhang X, Guan Q, Chen Y. More consideration is needed for retracted non-Cochrane systematic reviews in medicine: a systematic review. J Clin Epidemiol 2021; 139:57-67. [PMID: 34186193 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2021.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the retraction status and reasons of non-Cochrane systematic reviews (SRs) in medicine. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING MEDLINE, Embase, Retraction Watch Database and Google Scholar were systematically searched to find all retracted non-Cochrane SRs. RESULTS Of 159 non-Cochrane SRs in medicine retracted between 2004 and 2020, more than 70% were led by authors from China and affiliated with hospitals. The largest proportion of retraction notices were issued by the publisher and editor(s) jointly. Fraudulent peer-review was the most common reason for retraction, followed by unreliable data meaning errors in study selection or data analysis. The median time between publication and retraction was 14 months, and SRs retracted due to research misconduct took longer to retract than honest error. CONCLUSION The total number of retracted SRs is increasing worldwide, in particular in China. The most common reasons for retraction are fraudulent peer-review and unreliable data, and in most cases the SR is retracted more than a year after publication. Better systems of ethical oversight and culture to improve the process of peer review and adherence to the COPE retraction guidance are needed, and authors should strengthen their skills in SR methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianling Shi
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Evidence-based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zijun Wang
- Evidence-based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Evidence-based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ruizhen Hou
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xia Gao
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Shaoe He
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Siya Zhao
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yanfang Ma
- Evidence-based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xianzhuo Zhang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Quanlin Guan
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Department of Oncology Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Yaolong Chen
- Evidence-based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Lanzhou University Institute of Health Data Science, Lanzhou 730000, China; WHO Collaborating Center for Guideline Implementation and Knowledge Translation, Lanzhou 730000, China; Guideline International Network Asia, Lanzhou 730000, China; Chinese GRADE Center, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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15
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Lievore C, Rubbo P, Dos Santos CB, Picinin CT, Pilatti LA. Research ethics: a profile of retractions from world class universities. Scientometrics 2021; 126:6871-6889. [PMID: 34054160 PMCID: PMC8141102 DOI: 10.1007/s11192-021-03987-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to profile the scientific retractions published in journals indexed in the Web of Science database from 2010 to 2019, from researchers at the top 20 World Class Universities according to the Times Higher Education global ranking of 2020. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and simple linear regression were used to analyze the data. Of the 330 analyzed retractions, Harvard University had the highest number of retractions and the main reason for retraction was data results. We conclude that the universities with a higher ranking tend to have a lower rate of retraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Lievore
- Federal University of Technology - Paraná (UTFPR), Ponta Grossa, Brazil
| | - Priscila Rubbo
- Federal University of Technology - Paraná (UTFPR), Ponta Grossa, Brazil
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16
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Tang L, Yang L, Zhang L. Understanding Chinese science: New scientometric
perspectives. QUANTITATIVE SCIENCE STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1162/qss_e_00113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Li Tang
- Department of Public Administration, School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Fudan University, Shanghai, China, 200433
| | - Liying Yang
- Library of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, 100190
| | - Lin Zhang
- School of Information Management, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Centre for R&D Monitoring (ECOOM) and Department of MSI, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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17
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Liu L, Yu J, Huang J, Xia F, Jia T. The dominance of big teams in China’s scientific
output. QUANTITATIVE SCIENCE STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1162/qss_a_00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Modern science is dominated by scientific productions from teams. A recent finding shows that teams of both large and small sizes are essential in research, prompting us to analyze the extent to which a country’s scientific work is carried out by big or small teams. Here, using over 26 million publications from Web of Science, we find that China’s research output is more dominated by big teams than the rest of the world, which is particularly the case in fields of natural science. Despite the global trend that more papers are written by big teams, China’s drop in small team output is much steeper. As teams in China shift from small to large size, the team diversity that is essential for innovative work does not increase as much as that in other countries. Using the national average as the baseline, we find that the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) supports fewer small teams than the National Science Foundation (NSF) of the United States does, implying that big teams are preferred by grant agencies in China. Our finding provides new insights into the concern of originality and innovation in China, which indicates a need to balance small and big teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Liu
- College of Computer and Information Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, P. R. China
| | - Jianfei Yu
- College of Computer and Information Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, P. R. China
| | - Junming Huang
- Paul and Marcia Wythes Center on Contemporary China, Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
- Center for Complex Network Research, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Feng Xia
- School of Science, Engineering and Information Technology, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
| | - Tao Jia
- College of Computer and Information Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, P. R. China
- Deakin-SWU Joint Research Center on Big Data, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, P. R. China
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18
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Zhang Y, Wu M, Hu Z, Ward R, Zhang X, Porter A. Profiling and predicting the problem-solving patterns in
China’s research systems: A methodology of intelligent bibliometrics and
empirical insights. QUANTITATIVE SCIENCE STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1162/qss_a_00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Uncovering the driving forces, strategic landscapes, and evolutionary mechanisms of China’s research systems is attracting rising interest around the globe. One topic of interest is to understand the problem-solving patterns in China’s research systems now and in the future. Targeting a set of high-quality research articles published by Chinese researchers between 2009 and 2018, and indexed in the Essential Science Indicators database, we developed an intelligent bibliometrics-based methodology for identifying the problem-solving patterns from scientific documents. Specifically, science overlay maps incorporating link prediction were used to profile China’s disciplinary interactions and predict potential cross-disciplinary innovation at a macro level. We proposed a function incorporating word embedding techniques to represent subjects, actions, and objects (SAO) retrieved from combined titles and abstracts into vectors and constructed a tri-layer SAO network to visualize SAOs and their semantic relationships. Then, at a micro level, we developed network analytics for identifying problems and solutions from the SAO network, and recommending potential solutions for existing problems. Empirical insights derived from this study provide clues to understand China’s research strengths and the science policies underlying them, along with the key research problems and solutions that Chinese researchers are focusing on now and might pursue in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Mengjia Wu
- Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Zhengyin Hu
- Chengdu Library and Information Centre, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Robert Ward
- Program in Science, Technology & Innovation Policy (STIP), Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
| | - Xue Zhang
- Chengdu Library and Information Centre, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Alan Porter
- Program in Science, Technology & Innovation Policy (STIP), Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
- Search Technology, Inc., USA
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19
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Same journal but different numbers of published records indexed in Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection: causes, consequences, and solutions. Scientometrics 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11192-021-03934-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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20
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Does open data boost journal impact: evidence from Chinese economics. Scientometrics 2021; 126:3393-3419. [PMID: 33612885 PMCID: PMC7882418 DOI: 10.1007/s11192-021-03897-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
To encourage research transparency and replication, more and more journals have been requiring authors to share original datasets and analytic procedures supporting their publications. Does open data boost journal impact? In this article, we report one of the first empirical studies to assess the effects of open data on journal impact. China Industrial Economics (CIE) mandated authors to open their research data in the end of 2016, which is the first to embrace open data among Chinese journals and provides a natural experiment for policy evaluation. We use the data of 37 Chinese economics journals from 2001 to 2019 and apply synthetic control method to causally estimate the effects of open data, and our results show that open data has significantly increased the citations of journal articles. On average, the current- and second-year citations of articles published with CIE have increased by 1 ~ 4 times, and articles published before the open data policy also benefited from the spillover effect. Our findings suggest that journals can leverage compulsory open data to develop reputation and amplify academic impacts.
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21
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Tang L, Cao C, Lien D, Liu X. The Effects of Anti-corruption Campaign on Research Grant Reimbursement: Regression Discontinuity Evidence from China. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2020; 26:3415-3436. [PMID: 33001377 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-020-00265-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Integrity and research ethics are cherished institutions in academic world. Although most societies have rules and codes that govern ethical conducts in research, few studies have provided quantitative evidence on the impacts of these regulations and codes on the behaviors of researchers. In the context of a nationwide anti-corruption campaign in China, this paper evaluates the changes of principal investigators' reimbursement behavior in a leading university when new reimbursement policies were introduced. Utilizing a novel grant dataset and a regression discontinuity design, we find that the new policies lowered PIs' monthly average amount of reimbursement from research grants by 35%, which can be interpreted as a reduction in grant misuse. Following speculations we argue that institutionalizing orchestrated efforts on grant management, payroll systems, and research integrity education is in the right direction toward building China into a true scientific power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tang
- School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Cao
- Faculty of Business, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China
| | - Donald Lien
- University of Texas, San Antonio, San Antonio, USA
| | - Xiaoou Liu
- Renmin University of China, Beijing, China.
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22
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Zhao Y, Du J, Wu Y. The impact of J. D. Bernal’s thoughts in the science of science upon China: Implications for today’s quantitative studies of science. QUANTITATIVE SCIENCE STUDIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1162/qss_a_00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
John Desmond Bernal (1901–1970) was one of the most eminent scientists in molecular biology and is also regarded as the founding father of the science of science. His book The social function of science laid the theoretical foundations for the discipline. In this article, we summarize four chief characteristics of his ideas in the science of science: the sociohistorical perspective, theoretical models, qualitative and quantitative approaches, and studies of science planning and policy. China has constantly reformed its scientific and technological system based on research evidence of the science of science. Therefore, we analyze the impact of Bernal’s science-of-science thoughts on the development of China’s science of science, and discuss how they might be usefully taken still further in quantitative studies of science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhao
- Information Research Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Du
- National Institute of Health Data Science, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yishan Wu
- Chinese Academy of Science and Technology for Development, Beijing, China
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23
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Yu L, Miao M, Liu W, Zhang B, Zhang P. Scientific misconduct and associated factors: A survey of researchers in three Chinese tertiary hospitals. Account Res 2020; 28:95-114. [PMID: 32783533 DOI: 10.1080/08989621.2020.1809386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We designed a questionnaire to assess the prevalence of scientific misconduct and possible associated factors in tertiary hospitals in China. A total of 278 questionnaires were distributed to researchers in three tertiary hospitals, and 217 were returned. The top three influencing factors on scientific misconduct were individual morality (74.20%), pressure for promotion (65.90%), and pressure for publishing articles (63.59%). More than 50% of researchers thought the pressure for promotion, publication, and external funding were high or very high. Approximately 40% of researchers admitted having committed at least one of the nine listed forms of scientific misconduct, and 17.51% admitted having committed at least one of fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism. The most common scientific misconducts was inappropriate authorship (29.49%). Being a principal investigator or physician and higher pressure for promotion were associated with higher self-reported research misconduct severity score (RMSS) grade. Being female and better recognition of scientific integrity were related to lower RMSS grade. We recommend that the Chinese policy makers and hospitals pay more attention to increasing perceptions of scientific integrity, establish a more scientific evaluation system for promotion, and improve the auditing and surveillance of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Yu
- Scientific Research Administration Department, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Miao Miao
- Scientific Research Administration Department, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Liu
- Scientific Research Administration Department, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Bi Zhang
- Scientific Research Administration Department, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengjun Zhang
- Scientific Research Administration Department, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Beijing, People's Republic of China
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24
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Li D, Cornelis G. Differing perceptions concerning research misconduct between China and Flanders: A qualitative study. Account Res 2020; 28:63-94. [PMID: 32718198 DOI: 10.1080/08989621.2020.1802586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In the field of research integrity, there has been increasing interest in the influence of culture on research misconduct. Yet, there is a lack of empirical study on how differently researchers from distinct cultural backgrounds perceive research misconduct. Hence, we used the qualitative approach to investigate and compare perspectives concerning research misconduct between Chinese and Flemish researchers. By means of 45 interviews we explored their perspectives on types, determinants of, and solutions to research misconduct. Our findings show elements of scientific culture shared by both groups, but also clear dissimilarities. The Chinese participants more often mentioned plagiarism and inappropriate authorship as examples of research misconduct, while Flemish respondents brought up fabrication and falsification. Research misconduct was associated with diverse determinants, though the Chinese favored the "bad apple" theory (more intrinsic), while the Flemish pointed to the "publish or perish" pressure and attributed misconduct to situational aspects (rather extrinsic). Accordingly, they proposed diverse strategies to handle this issue, yet education and training were recommended by both groups. This study confirms that research misconduct is the result of many factors intertwining and interacting, and suggests that cultural traits contribute to our perceptions of research misconduct and subsequent bias in that context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Li
- Centre for Logic and Philosophy of Science, Faculty of Language and Humanities, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) , Brussel, Belgium
| | - Gustaaf Cornelis
- Centre for Logic and Philosophy of Science, Faculty of Language and Humanities, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) , Brussel, Belgium
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25
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Luo W, Srinivasulu C, Hao X, Liu X, Zhan P. The increasing impact of Chinese innovative drug research on the global stage with a focus on drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 15:1115-1120. [PMID: 32552058 PMCID: PMC7441767 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2020.1775577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Luo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University , Jinan, PR China
| | - Cherukupalli Srinivasulu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University , Jinan, PR China
| | - Xia Hao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University , Jinan, PR China
| | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University , Jinan, PR China
| | - Peng Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University , Jinan, PR China
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26
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Tang L, Hu G, Sui Y, Yang Y, Cao C. Retraction: The "Other Face" of Research Collaboration? SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2020; 26:1681-1708. [PMID: 32215814 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-020-00209-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The last two decades have witnessed the rising prevalence of both co-publishing and retraction. Focusing on research collaboration, this paper utilizes a unique dataset to investigate factors contributing to retraction probability and elapsed time between publication and retraction. Data analysis reveals that the majority of retracted papers are multi-authored and that repeat offenders are collaboration prone. Yet, all things being equal, collaboration, in and of itself, does not increase the likelihood of producing flawed or fraudulent research, at least in the form of retraction. That holds for all retractions and also retractions due to falsification, fabrication, and plagiarism (FFP). The research also finds that publications with authors from elite universities are less likely to be retracted, which is particularly true for retractions due to FFP. China stands out with the fastest retracting speed compared to other countries. Possible explanations, limitations, and policy implications are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tang
- School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Guangyuan Hu
- Shanghai University of Finance Economics, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yang Sui
- Kearney A.T, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yuhan Yang
- Shanghai University of Finance Economics, Shanghai, 200433, China
- College of Finance, Chongqing Technology and Business University, Chongqing, 400067, China
| | - Cong Cao
- Faculty of Business, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, 315100, China.
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27
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Comparing like with like: China ranks first in SCI-indexed research articles since 2018. Scientometrics 2020; 124:1691-1700. [PMID: 32836521 PMCID: PMC7246301 DOI: 10.1007/s11192-020-03525-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
China’s rising in scientific research output is impressive. The academic community is curious about the time when the cross-over in the number of annual scientific publication production between China and the USA can happen. By using Web of Science Core Collection’s Science Citation Index Expanded database, this study finds that China still ranks the second in the production of SCI-indexed publications in 2019 but may leapfrog the USA to be the first in 2020 or 2021, if all document types are considered. Comparatively, China has already overtaken the USA and been the largest SCI-indexed original research article producer since 2018. However, China still lags behind the USA regarding the number of review paper production. In general, quantitative advantage does not equal quality or impact advantage. We think that the USA will continue to be the global scientific leader for a long time.
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28
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Wang F, Li Y. How Chinese scientific societies should promote the construction of research integrity. Account Res 2020; 27:271-283. [PMID: 32293199 DOI: 10.1080/08989621.2020.1756265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Scientific societies play an important role in promoting and fostering research integrity. Through a comparative study between China and the United States based on information published over the internet, this article lays out some problems existing in Chinese scientific societies concerning the promotion of research integrity. Research integrity assumes only a minor presence in societies' policy texts, terms that are incorporated tend to be too general, and concrete action often remains superficial. To remedy these problems, this article makes five recommendations for scientific societies to put more emphasis on research integrity: (1) formulating more professional and specific norms; (2) launching dedicated columns or adding related articles in journals; (3) holding seminars and briefings; (4) setting up specialized committees; and (5) strengthening research integrity education. To supplement the realization of these goals, the article also suggests possible incentive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- School of Marxism Studies, Dalian University of Technology , Dalian, CN, China
| | - Yingjie Li
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dalian University of Technology , Dalian, CN, China
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