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A Simple Framework for Evaluating Authorial Contributions for Scientific Publications.
1U.S. Army ARDEC-Benét Laboratories, 1 Buffington Street, Watervliet Arsenal, Watervliet, NY, 12189, USA. jwarrend@post.harvard.edu.
Science and Engineering Ethics
|November 9, 2015
Summary
This tool helps researchers determine scientific publication authorship by scoring contributions across four key phases. It provides a systematic method for assigning author credit and order based on a total contribution score.
Area of Science:
- Scientific publishing
- Research ethics
- Academic integrity
Background:
- Determining authorship in scientific publications can be complex and contentious.
- A standardized method is needed to objectively assess contributions.
- Fair attribution is crucial for academic recognition and career progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel tool for evaluating contributions to scientific publications.
- To facilitate objective decision-making regarding authorship qualification and order.
- To provide a systematic framework for assigning author credit in research.
Main Methods:
- The tool assesses contributions across four distinct publication phases: Conception and Design, Data Acquisition, Analysis and Interpretation, and Manuscript Preparation.
- Participants receive a score (0-5) for their involvement in each phase.
- A total 'contribution score' is calculated by summing phase scores to determine authorship eligibility and ranking.
Main Results:
- The tool generates a quantifiable contribution score for each participant.
- This score can be compared against a predefined threshold to identify qualifying authors.
- The system offers a structured approach to resolving authorship disputes and ensuring equitable recognition.
Conclusions:
- The developed tool offers a simple yet effective method for assessing authorship in scientific research.
- Its systematic approach promotes fairness and transparency in authorial credit.
- This tool can be applied in diverse research settings requiring a clear authorship policy.
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