Publication Pressure in Nuclear Medicine.

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Medical Imaging
• Scientific Publishing

Background:

• The academic environment often creates pressure for scientists to publish frequently.
• Understanding the extent and sources of this pressure is crucial for researcher well-being and productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the perceived publication pressure among nuclear medicine scientists.
• To identify specific factors and researcher characteristics associated with this pressure.

Main Methods:

• A survey study involving corresponding authors from leading nuclear medicine journals (2021-2023).
• Utilized the revised Publication Pressure Questionnaire assessing publication stress, attitude, and resources.
• Data analyzed for associations between researcher characteristics and publication pressure domains.

Main Results:

• Median scores indicated appreciable publication stress and a neutral publication attitude.
• No researcher characteristics were linked to publication stress, but older age (>65) correlated with a more positive publication climate.
• Mid-career scientists (45-64), associate professors, fellows/residents, and those with 5-10 years of research experience reported fewer resources to alleviate publication pressure.

Conclusions:

• Publication pressure is a notable concern within the nuclear medicine field.
• Specific demographic and career-stage factors are associated with heightened vulnerability to publication pressure, suggesting targeted support may be beneficial.