Journal Description
Publications
Publications
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on scholarly publishing, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), RePEc, dblp, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Information Science and Library Science) / CiteScore - Q1 (Communication)
- Open Peer-Review: authors have the option for all reviewer comments and editorial decisions to be published along with the final paper. For more, see: Editorial, Paper with Review Comments.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 22.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.5 (2024);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.7 (2024)
Latest Articles
A Decade of Deepfake Research in the Generative AI Era, 2014–2024: A Bibliometric Analysis
Publications 2025, 13(4), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13040050 - 2 Oct 2025
Abstract
The recent growth of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has brought new possibilities and revolutionary applications in many fields. It has also, however, created important ethical and security issues, especially with the abusive use of deepfakes, which are artificial media that can propagate very
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The recent growth of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has brought new possibilities and revolutionary applications in many fields. It has also, however, created important ethical and security issues, especially with the abusive use of deepfakes, which are artificial media that can propagate very realistic but false information. This paper provides an extensive bibliometric, statistical, and trend analysis of deepfake research in the age of generative AI. Utilizing the Web of Science (WoS) database for the years 2014–2024, the research identifies key authors, influential publications, collaboration networks, and leading institutions. Biblioshiny (Bibliometrix R package, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy) and VOSviewer (version 1.6.20, Centre for Science and Technology Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands) are utilized in the research for mapping the science production, theme development, and geographical distribution. The cutoff point of ten keyword frequencies by occurrence was applied to the data for relevance. This study aims to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the research status, identify gaps in the knowledge, and direct upcoming studies in the creation, detection, and mitigation of deepfakes. The study is intended to help researchers, developers, and policymakers understand the trajectory and impact of deepfake technology, supporting innovation and governance strategies. The findings highlight a strong average annual growth rate of 61.94% in publications between 2014 and 2024, with China, the United States, and India as leading contributors, IEEE Access among the most influential sources, and three dominant clusters emerging around disinformation, generative models, and detection methods.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI in Academic Metrics and Impact Analysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Geographic Variation in LLM DOI Fabrication: Cross-Country Analysis of Citation Accuracy Across Four Large Language Models
by
Eungi Kim, Frankline Kipchumba and Sein Min
Publications 2025, 13(4), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13040049 - 1 Oct 2025
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This study evaluates digital object identifier (DOI) hallucination in large language model (LLM)-generated scholarly citations, with a focus on systematic geographic disparities. To conduct this study, we systematically evaluated four LLMs (GPT-4o-mini, Claude-3-haiku, Gemini-2.0-flash-lite, and DeepSeek V3) using standardized information behavior prompts across
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This study evaluates digital object identifier (DOI) hallucination in large language model (LLM)-generated scholarly citations, with a focus on systematic geographic disparities. To conduct this study, we systematically evaluated four LLMs (GPT-4o-mini, Claude-3-haiku, Gemini-2.0-flash-lite, and DeepSeek V3) using standardized information behavior prompts across ten countries with diverse income levels. The models generated 3451 citations, which we validated using the CrossRef API. The results showed that DOI hallucination follows systematic patterns influenced by model choice, geographic context, and publication recency. Hallucination rates exceeded 80% in lower-income countries and increased sharply for publications from the 2020s across all regions. Fabricated citations—citations that appear structurally complete but contain invalid DOIs—were especially prevalent in countries such as India and Bangladesh. Model-specific factors showed the strongest association with hallucination, followed by income level and publication period. These findings raise concerns about the epistemic reliability of LLM-generated scholarly references and underscore the need for region-aware training, real-time DOI validation, and robust verification protocols in academic contexts.
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Open AccessOpinion
Beyond the Review: The Editorial Duty to Uphold Professional Conduct
by
Stephen A. Bustin
Publications 2025, 13(4), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13040048 - 1 Oct 2025
Abstract
Peer review fails when it is delivered without fairness, accountability, or respect. When unprofessional reviews are communicated without editorial intervention, they undermine trust, distort scientific dialogue, and disproportionately harm early-career and underrepresented researchers. This article combines a detailed case study with evidence from
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Peer review fails when it is delivered without fairness, accountability, or respect. When unprofessional reviews are communicated without editorial intervention, they undermine trust, distort scientific dialogue, and disproportionately harm early-career and underrepresented researchers. This article combines a detailed case study with evidence from the literature to illustrate how reviewer misconduct can escalate into editorial failure, and why such outcomes are avoidable. Mechanisms already exist to prevent them, including pre-screening, structured review forms, training, appeals processes, and reviewer tracking, but require consistent application. The central problem is not the absence of guidance, but the lack of enforcement. Restoring credibility in peer review depends on editors treating oversight as a duty of stewardship, ensuring that critique remains rigorous, constructive, and respectful.
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Open AccessArticle
Is Tuberculosis Scientific Research Aligned with National Research Priorities? A Bibliometric Analysis of Peruvian Scientific Production
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Franko O. Garcia-Solorzano, Yolanda Angulo-Bazán, Sofia Soriano-Martinez, Olenka Farfan-Zapata and Leonid Lecca
Publications 2025, 13(4), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13040047 - 1 Oct 2025
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Background: Focusing scientific research on the health needs of the population could ensure the development of context-specific solutions. In Peru, prioritization has been proposed as a strategy to address this issue. However, the alignment of Peruvian scientific production on tuberculosis (TB) with the
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Background: Focusing scientific research on the health needs of the population could ensure the development of context-specific solutions. In Peru, prioritization has been proposed as a strategy to address this issue. However, the alignment of Peruvian scientific production on tuberculosis (TB) with the national TB research priorities (TBprios) has not been evaluated. Methods: We conducted a bibliometric analysis in Web of Science, Scopus, LILACS, SciELO, and PubMed to identify original articles focused on TB, with at least one author with Peruvian affiliation. Then, we reviewed the general objectives of each study included and verified their alignment with any TBprios. Results: We found that 73% of Peruvian scientific articles were aligned with some of the national research priorities on TB, especially those related to epidemiology and diagnostics, although no increased trends in alignment were identified across the study period. In addition, in an exploratory analysis we found that fewer than 20% of aligned studies reported receiving national funding. Conclusion: Substantial alignment was observed between the research outputs identified and TBprios. Nonetheless, this high level of alignment could also reflect the significance of TB within the social and public health agenda of Peru.
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Open AccessArticle
Same Coin, Different Value: A Multi-Year Comparative Analysis of Financial Performance of Open Access and Legacy Publishers
by
George Peppas, Leonidas Papachristopoulos and Giannis Tsakonas
Publications 2025, 13(4), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13040046 - 24 Sep 2025
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We are living in an era where the demand for Open Access to knowledge is growing and the need for transparency in scientific publishing is becoming imperative. The question that arises at this stage is whether openness in knowledge constitutes the Achilles heel
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We are living in an era where the demand for Open Access to knowledge is growing and the need for transparency in scientific publishing is becoming imperative. The question that arises at this stage is whether openness in knowledge constitutes the Achilles heel of the once profitable legacy publishing industry or whether it is the Trojan horse of the latter for increasing its revenues. At the same time, the question of whether Open Access publishers can ensure their sustainability through this model remains unanswered. This study implements a multi-year analysis (2019–2023) comparing the performance of Open Access and legacy publishers. Using a set of financial ratios—grouped by profitability, liquidity, efficiency, and solvency, as well as data on firm size (revenues, assets, and employee counts), we assess their financial performance. The results indicate that legacy publishers have enormous scale, stable profitability, and high leverage, but low liquidity and return on equity. On the other hand, OA publishers, although smaller, have higher returns, better liquidity, and almost zero borrowing, but with greater annual volatility. The study discusses that OA publishers, despite their small size, can be as profitable as or even more profitable than traditional publishers, thanks to flexible structures and fast cash flows, but remain vulnerable due to limited resources and the risk of acquisition. Furthermore, legacy publishers maintain their dominance by leveraging their scale, strong brands, and investment capacity while adopting or acquiring OA models, creating a competitive environment where scale and strategic differentiation are decisive.
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Open AccessArticle
Reframing Government Science Communication in the Digital Era: A Multi-Model Study of BRIN (Indonesia)
by
Yutainten, Engkus Kuswarno, Uud Wahyudin and Ira Mirawati
Publications 2025, 13(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030045 - 19 Sep 2025
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In governmental agencies, science communication often focuses on one-way knowledge transfer, even on digital platforms designed for interaction and engagement. This study examines the strategies used by Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) across four science communication models—deficit, dialogue, participatory, and scientific
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In governmental agencies, science communication often focuses on one-way knowledge transfer, even on digital platforms designed for interaction and engagement. This study examines the strategies used by Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) across four science communication models—deficit, dialogue, participatory, and scientific agency—to identify shortcomings and opportunities for more inclusive public engagement. Using a qualitative case study approach, we analyzed digital content produced by BRIN, conducted 25 semi-structured interviews, held focus group discussions, and observed digital data. The data were thematically coded using NVivo software 12. Our findings show that BRIN mainly adopts the deficit model, using digital platforms primarily for broadcasting rather than genuine engagement. While some dialogue occurs, it often takes the form of “Controlled Dialogue”—a performative use of interactive tools limited by institutional and bureaucratic obstacles. These barriers impede genuine participation. We recommend a strategic hybrid model that aligns communication methods with specific objectives, offering actionable strategies for public research institutions in the Global South to enhance meaningful public engagement.
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Open AccessArticle
Scientific Production in Central America (1996–2023): Bibliometric Analysis of Regional Trends, Collaboration, and Research Impact
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Marta Irene Flores Polanco and Carlos Alberto Echeverría Mayorga
Publications 2025, 13(3), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030044 - 8 Sep 2025
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This article presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of scientific production in Central America between 1996 and 2023, based on data indexed in the Scopus database. The study frames the investigation within the broader context of scientific visibility and regional development, aiming to evaluate
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This article presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of scientific production in Central America between 1996 and 2023, based on data indexed in the Scopus database. The study frames the investigation within the broader context of scientific visibility and regional development, aiming to evaluate trends in research productivity, thematic specialization, and patterns of scientific collaboration across Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. A total of 35,146 articles authored by researchers affiliated with institutions in Central America were analyzed using indicators such as publication volume, subject areas, journal impact and co-authorship data provided by Scopus. The findings reveal a consistent annual growth rate of 7%, yet with marked disparities among countries. Costa Rica, Panama, and Guatemala account for 82% of the total scientific output, while the remaining countries contribute only 18%. Research activity is primarily concentrated in the medical, agricultural, biological, and environmental sciences. Over 80% of publications involve international collaboration, predominantly with the United States, Spain, and Mexico, whereas intraregional cooperation remains limited. The analysis underscores the region’s reliance on global research networks and reveals persistent internal asymmetries in scientific development. The results suggest the need for increased investment in national research systems, stronger regional collaboration, and targeted strategies to balance scientific production across countries.
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Open AccessArticle
From Knowledge Keeper to Intelligent Collaborator: The Role Reinvention and Value Reconstruction of Librarians in the AI-Enabled Era
by
Jiwei Zhang and Jiafu Liu
Publications 2025, 13(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030043 - 6 Sep 2025
Abstract
AI technology is reshaping the knowledge ecosystem, bringing both challenges and opportunities to libraries. This article examines the transformation of librarians from “knowledge guardians” to “intelligent collaborators.” It discusses the professional challenges and practical dilemmas introduced by AI through the lenses of value
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AI technology is reshaping the knowledge ecosystem, bringing both challenges and opportunities to libraries. This article examines the transformation of librarians from “knowledge guardians” to “intelligent collaborators.” It discusses the professional challenges and practical dilemmas introduced by AI through the lenses of value reorientation and paradigm shift. The paper argues that librarians should actively adopt new technologies, engage in ongoing learning, and develop more resilient knowledge service systems, while also identifying their key roles and potential pathways for transformation within smart library frameworks.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Academic Libraries in Supporting Research)
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Open AccessArticle
Beyond Quality: Predicting Citation Impact in Business Research Using Data Science
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Reyner Pérez-Campdesuñer, Alexander Sánchez-Rodríguez, Rodobaldo Martínez-Vivar, Margarita De Miguel-Guzmán and Gelmar García-Vidal
Publications 2025, 13(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030042 - 5 Sep 2025
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The volume of scientific publications has increased exponentially over the past decades across virtually all academic disciplines. In this landscape of information overload, objective criteria are needed to identify high-impact research. Citation counts have traditionally served as a primary indicator of scientific relevance;
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The volume of scientific publications has increased exponentially over the past decades across virtually all academic disciplines. In this landscape of information overload, objective criteria are needed to identify high-impact research. Citation counts have traditionally served as a primary indicator of scientific relevance; however, questions remain as to whether they truly reflect the intrinsic quality of a publication. This study investigates the relationship between citation frequency and a wide range of editorial, authorship, and contextual variables. A dataset of 339,609 articles indexed in Scopus was analyzed, retrieved using the search query TITLE-ABS-KEY (management) AND LIMIT-TO (subarea, “Busi”). The research employed a descriptive analysis followed by two predictive modeling approaches: a Random Forest algorithm to assess variable importance, and a binary logistic regression to estimate the probability of a paper being cited. Results indicate that factors such as journal quartile, country of affiliation, number of authors, open access availability, and keyword usage significantly influence citation outcomes. The Random Forest model explained 94.9% of the variance, while the logistic model achieved an AUC of 0.669, allowing the formulation of a predictive citation equation. Findings suggest that multiple determinants beyond content quality drive citation behavior, and that citation probability can be predicted with reasonable accuracy, though inherent model limitations must be acknowledged.
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Open AccessArticle
Reckoning with Retractions in Research Funding Reviews: The Case of China
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Shaoxiong Brian Xu and Guangwei Hu
Publications 2025, 13(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030041 - 4 Sep 2025
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China’s retraction crisis has raised concerns about research integrity and accountability within its scientific community and beyond. To address this issue, we proposed in an earlier publication that Chinese research funders incorporate retraction records into the evaluation of research funding applications by establishing
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China’s retraction crisis has raised concerns about research integrity and accountability within its scientific community and beyond. To address this issue, we proposed in an earlier publication that Chinese research funders incorporate retraction records into the evaluation of research funding applications by establishing a retraction-based review system. This review system would debar researchers with retraction records from applying for funding for a specified period. However, our earlier proposal lacked practical guidance on how to operationalize such a review system. In this article, we expand on our proposal by fleshing out the proposed ten debarment determinants and offering a framework for quantifying the duration of funding ineligibility. Additionally, we outline the critical steps for implementing the retraction-based review system, address the major challenges to its effective and sustainable adoption, and propose viable solutions to these challenges. Finally, we discuss the benefits of implementing the review system, emphasizing its potential to strengthen research integrity and foster a culture of accountability in the Chinese academic community.
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Open AccessReview
Mapping the Use of Bibliometric Software and Methodological Transparency in Literature Review Studies: A Comparative Analysis of China-Affiliated and Non-China-Affiliated Research Communities (2015–2024)
by
Altyeb Ali Abaker Omer and Yajie Dong
Publications 2025, 13(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030040 - 3 Sep 2025
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The growing use of bibliometric methods in literature reviews has intensified concerns about methodological transparency and consistency. This study compares English-language reviews authored by China-affiliated and non-China-affiliated researchers between 2015 and 2024. Through bibliometric content analysis and co-word network mapping, it evaluates the
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The growing use of bibliometric methods in literature reviews has intensified concerns about methodological transparency and consistency. This study compares English-language reviews authored by China-affiliated and non-China-affiliated researchers between 2015 and 2024. Through bibliometric content analysis and co-word network mapping, it evaluates the following: (1) the use and purposes of bibliometric software; (2) the clarity of methodological reporting, including software versions, threshold settings, data preprocessing, and database selection; (3) the extent to which limitations are acknowledged and recommendations proposed; and (4) the dominant conceptual themes shaping research practices. The analysis covers 50 highly cited reviews (25 per group) and 4000 additional papers for thematic mapping. Findings show both convergence and divergence: while tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Gephi, and Bibliometrix are widely adopted, non-China-affiliated studies exhibit greater transparency and reflexivity, whereas China-affiliated research often emphasizes output metrics and underreports methodological challenges. These contrasts reflect broader epistemological norms and research cultures. This study underscores the need for unified reporting standards and contributes to meta-research by offering practical guidance to improve the transparency, comparability, and rigor of bibliometric-supported literature reviews.
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Open AccessArticle
Editorial Policy and the Dissemination of Scientific Knowledge on Open Access—Case Study: Science Communication Journals in Latin America
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Fernando Sánchez-Pita, Mario Benito-Cabello and Belén Puebla-Martínez
Publications 2025, 13(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030039 - 28 Aug 2025
Abstract
The editorial policies of science journals have an impact on access to scientific knowledge. One of the most effective ways to share knowledge with the entire society is to offer it free of charge. Considering the international recognition of Scopus and Web of
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The editorial policies of science journals have an impact on access to scientific knowledge. One of the most effective ways to share knowledge with the entire society is to offer it free of charge. Considering the international recognition of Scopus and Web of Science, this study analyses 28 scientific journals in the field of communication that are indexed under the “Communication” category in both databases in order to review their editorial decisions regarding the dissemination of articles they publish. By taking a descriptive approach, the authors have examined the inner workings and design, as well as aspects related to ethics and transparency, as key components of this policy. The findings indicate that most journals are influenced by digital publishing platforms and that various features examined in this study are offered by these platforms by default. This is especially true in terms of design, which simultaneously enables yet influences each journal’s editorial policy. Together with the need for financial support and adequate human resources, this situation makes it difficult to implement an editorial policy free of external encroachment. This article concludes by emphasising the importance of establishing editorial policies that promote open access as a standard practice, thereby reinforcing the democratisation of access to scientific knowledge. It is recommended to strengthen institutional support for journals operating under the diamond model, promote their visibility and thematic specialisation, enhance technical and visual aspects, and clearly articulate ethical commitments within their editorial policies. In short, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview of both strengths and areas of improvement, offering recommendations to help these journals optimise their contribution to the global academic ecosystem.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Open Science: Developments and Disinformation Regarding Scientific Information)
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Open AccessArticle
How Scholars Collaborate on Data Assets Research: A Systematic Comparative Analysis of Chinese and International Publications
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Yaqin Li, Jinyuan Shi and Yuequan Yang
Publications 2025, 13(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030038 - 16 Aug 2025
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In the era of data elements, it is extremely necessary and practically important to analyze network characteristics and evolutionary trends in academic research collaboration in the field of data assets research, which can provide valuable insights for promoting deep cooperation of scholars and
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In the era of data elements, it is extremely necessary and practically important to analyze network characteristics and evolutionary trends in academic research collaboration in the field of data assets research, which can provide valuable insights for promoting deep cooperation of scholars and enhancing their collaborative efficiency. However, existing studies on data assets research rarely delve into key differentiating characteristics and core thematic priorities between Chinese and international samples of collaboration networks. Based on bibliometric methods and social network analysis, a systematic comparative analysis between Chinese collaboration networks and international collaboration networks is conducted via CiteSpace software by using core literature from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Web of Science Core Collection, developed by Clarivate Analytics (WoS). Through observation, we find that the number of publications in this field has reached a preliminary scale with distinct differences in research focus and collaborative features between cooperation networks in China (CNCs) and international cooperation networks (ICNs). In recent years, Chinese samples have primarily focused upon research themes related to data value realization, such as data rights confirmation, data assets accounting, and data trusts. The overall connectivity of CNCs seems relatively weak, and a stable core author group has not formed, while collaborations in CNCs are predominantly localized and short-term. In contrast, international samples in recent years have mainly addressed the contextual application of data assets, exhibiting a collaboration network characterized by multi-center, interdisciplinary, and cross-institutional synergy, while core authors in ICNs are closely interconnected and their connectivity and structure are generally stronger than those of CNCs.
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Open AccessArticle
Academic Library with Generative AI: From Passive Information Providers to Proactive Knowledge Facilitators
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Junic Kim
Publications 2025, 13(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030037 - 15 Aug 2025
Cited by 1
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This study investigates how generative artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping academic libraries from passive information providers into proactive knowledge facilitators. Drawing on the qualitative case study of a South Korean university library that implemented an AI-powered chatbot, the study examines its impact on
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This study investigates how generative artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping academic libraries from passive information providers into proactive knowledge facilitators. Drawing on the qualitative case study of a South Korean university library that implemented an AI-powered chatbot, the study examines its impact on service personalization, user engagement, and research efficiency. The thematic analysis of interviews with users and staff reveals how AI integration transforms the user experience and redefines professional roles. Findings contribute to scholarly discussions on library innovation, demonstrating how generative AI enables adaptive, anticipatory knowledge services in academic environments shaped by digital transformation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Academic Libraries in Supporting Research)
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Open AccessOpinion
Flawed Metrics, Damaging Outcomes: A Rebuttal to the RI2 Integrity Index Targeting Top Indonesian Universities
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Muhammad Iqhrammullah, Derren D. C. H. Rampengan, Muhammad Fadhlal Maula and Ikhwan Amri
Publications 2025, 13(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030036 - 4 Aug 2025
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The Research Integrity Risk Index (RI2), introduced as a tool to identify universities at risk of compromised research integrity, adopts an overly reductive methodology by combining retraction rates and delisted journal proportions into a single, equally weighted composite score. While its
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The Research Integrity Risk Index (RI2), introduced as a tool to identify universities at risk of compromised research integrity, adopts an overly reductive methodology by combining retraction rates and delisted journal proportions into a single, equally weighted composite score. While its stated aim is to promote accountability, this commentary critiques the RI2 index for its flawed assumptions, lack of empirical validation, and disproportionate penalization of institutions in low- and middle-income countries. We examine how RI2 misinterprets retractions, misuses delisting data, and fails to account for diverse academic publishing environments, particularly in Indonesia, where many high-performing universities are unfairly categorized as “high risk” or “red flag.” The index’s uncritical reliance on opaque delisting decisions, combined with its fixed equal-weighting formula, produces volatile and context-insensitive scores that do not accurately reflect the presence or severity of research misconduct. Moreover, RI2 has gained significant media attention and policy influence despite being based on an unreviewed preprint, with no transparent mechanism for institutional rebuttal or contextual adjustment. By comparing RI2 classifications with established benchmarks such as the Scimago Institution Rankings and drawing from lessons in global development metrics, we argue that RI2, although conceptually innovative, should remain an exploratory framework. It requires rigorous scientific validation before being adopted as a global standard. We also propose flexible weighting schemes, regional calibration, and transparent engagement processes to improve the fairness and reliability of institutional research integrity assessments.
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Open AccessArticle
A Decade of Transformation in Higher Education and Science in Kazakhstan: A Literature and Scientometric Review of National Projects and Research Trends
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Timur Narbaev, Diana Amirbekova and Aknar Bakdaulet
Publications 2025, 13(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030035 - 30 Jul 2025
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Higher education and science (HES) is one of the key drivers of a country’s economic growth. In this study, we examine national projects and research capacity in HES in Kazakhstan from 2014 to 2024. We conducted a content review and scientometric analysis with
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Higher education and science (HES) is one of the key drivers of a country’s economic growth. In this study, we examine national projects and research capacity in HES in Kazakhstan from 2014 to 2024. We conducted a content review and scientometric analysis with network and temporal visualizations. Our data sources included policy documents, statistical reports, and the Scopus database. Our findings suggest that, while Kazakhstan aligns with global trends in the field (e.g., digitalization, scientometrics monitoring, and internationalization), these are achieved through a state-led, policy-driven approach shaped by its post-Soviet context. Additionally, we note a dual structure in Kazakhstan’s HES sector, characterized by a strong top-down direction and increasing institutional engagement. In terms of the thematic trends from the temporal analysis, the country experienced a three-staged evolution: foundational reforms and system modernization (2014–2017), capacity building and evaluation (2018–2021), and, most recently, strategic expansion, inclusivity, and globalization (2022–2024). Throughout the analyzed period, low R&D intensity, disciplinary imbalances, and structural barriers still undermine desired development efforts in HES. The analyzed case of Kazakhstan can serve as “lessons learned” for policymakers and researchers working in the science evaluation and scholarly communication area in similar emerging or transition countries.
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Open AccessArticle
All Roads Lead to Excellence: A Comparative Scientometric Assessment of French and Dutch European Research Council Grant Winners’ Academic Performance in the Domain of Social Sciences and Humanities
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Gergely Ferenc Lendvai, Petra Aczél and Péter Sasvári
Publications 2025, 13(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030034 - 24 Jul 2025
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This study investigates how differing national research governance models impact academic performance by comparing European Research Council (ERC) grant winners in the social sciences and humanities from France and the Netherlands. Situated within the broader context of centralized versus decentralized research systems, the
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This study investigates how differing national research governance models impact academic performance by comparing European Research Council (ERC) grant winners in the social sciences and humanities from France and the Netherlands. Situated within the broader context of centralized versus decentralized research systems, the analysis aims to understand how these structures shape publication trends, thematic diversity, and collaboration patterns. Drawing on Scopus and SciVal data covering 9996 publications by 305 ERC winners between 2019 and 2023, we employed a multi-method approach, including latent Dirichlet allocation for topic modeling, compound annual growth rate analysis, and co-authorship network analysis. The results show that neuroscience, climate change, and psychology are dominant domains, with language and linguistics particularly prevalent in France and law and political science in the Netherlands. French ERC winners are more likely to be affiliated with national or sectoral institutions, whereas in the Netherlands, elite universities dominate. Collaboration emerged as a key success factor, with an average of four co-authors per publication and network analyses revealing central figures who bridge topical clusters. International collaborations were consistently linked with higher visibility, while single-authored publications showed limited impact. These findings suggest that institutional context and collaborative practices significantly shape research performance in both countries.
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Open AccessReview
Mapping the Impact of Generative AI on Disinformation: Insights from a Scoping Review
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Alexandre López-Borrull and Carlos Lopezosa
Publications 2025, 13(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030033 - 21 Jul 2025
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This article presents a scoping review of the academic literature published between 2021 and 2024 on the intersection of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and disinformation. Drawing from 64 peer-reviewed studies, the review examines the current research landscape and identifies six key thematic areas:
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This article presents a scoping review of the academic literature published between 2021 and 2024 on the intersection of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and disinformation. Drawing from 64 peer-reviewed studies, the review examines the current research landscape and identifies six key thematic areas: political disinformation and propaganda; scientific disinformation; fact-checking; journalism and the media; media literacy and education; and deepfakes. The findings reveal that generative AI plays a dual role: it enables the rapid creation and targeted dissemination of synthetic content but also offers new opportunities for detection, verification, and public education. Beyond summarizing research trends, this review highlights the broader societal and practical implications of generative AI in the context of information disorder. It outlines how AI tools are already reshaping journalism, challenging scientific communication, and transforming strategies for media literacy and fact-checking. The analysis also identifies key policy and governance challenges, particularly the need for coordinated responses from governments, platforms, educators, and civil society actors. By offering a structured overview of the field, the article enhances our understanding of how generative AI can both exacerbate and help mitigate disinformation, and proposes directions for research, regulation, and public engagement.
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Open AccessArticle
Beyond Books: Student Perspectives on Emerging Technologies, Usability, and Ethics in the Library of the Future
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Faisal Kalota, Benedicta Frema Boamah, Hesham Allam, Tyler Schisler and Grace Witty
Publications 2025, 13(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030032 - 15 Jul 2025
Cited by 1
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This research aims to understand the evolving role of academic libraries, focusing on student perceptions of current services and their vision for the future. Data was collected using a survey at a midwestern research university in the United States. The survey contained both
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This research aims to understand the evolving role of academic libraries, focusing on student perceptions of current services and their vision for the future. Data was collected using a survey at a midwestern research university in the United States. The survey contained both quantitative and qualitative questions. The objective of the survey was to understand the current utilization of library services and students’ future visions for academic libraries. Qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques were utilized as part of the study. Thematic analysis was employed as part of the qualitative analysis, while descriptive and inferential analysis techniques were utilized in the quantitative analysis. The findings reveal that many students use libraries for traditional functions such as studying and accessing resources. There is also an inclination toward digitalization due to convenience, accessibility, and environmental sustainability; however, print materials remain relevant as well. Another finding was a lack of awareness among some students regarding available library services, indicating a need for better marketing and communication strategies. Students envision future libraries as technology-driven spaces integrating artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and innovative collaborative environments. Ethical considerations surrounding AI, including privacy, bias, and transparency, are crucial factors that must be addressed. Some of the actionable recommendations include integrating ethical AI, implementing digital literacy initiatives, conducting ongoing usability and user experience (UX) research within the library, and fostering cross-functional collaboration to enhance library services and student learning.
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Open AccessReview
The Measurement of Innovation: A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis of Global Innovation Index Research
by
Marcelo Pereira Duarte and Fernando Manuel Pereira de Oliveira Carvalho
Publications 2025, 13(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030031 - 26 Jun 2025
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The purpose of this review is to synthesise the accumulated knowledge on Global Innovation Index (GII) research. We utilised a corpus from the Web of Science Core Collection to systematically examine the antecedents, consequences, and relationships among the GII’s dimensions. Additionally, we employed
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The purpose of this review is to synthesise the accumulated knowledge on Global Innovation Index (GII) research. We utilised a corpus from the Web of Science Core Collection to systematically examine the antecedents, consequences, and relationships among the GII’s dimensions. Additionally, we employed the bibliometric techniques of bibliographic coupling and co-citation analysis to identify the leading areas of GII research and the foundational literature in this field. Our systematic review of GII empirical research allowed us to graphically represent the significant relationships among its dimensions. The findings from the bibliographic coupling revealed five recent lines of investigation in GII research: configurational methods; innovation efficiency and policy; competitiveness, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development; innovation rankings; and culture. Furthermore, the co-citation analysis highlighted four clusters of literature that have contributed to GII research. We aim to enhance the field of Innovation Studies by showcasing the current state of research on the GII, one of the most promising tools for measuring innovation activity, and to provide insights into potential future research avenues to further develop this area of study.
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