Publications

8 pages, 844 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

Flawed Metrics, Damaging Outcomes: A Rebuttal to the RI² Integrity Index Targeting Top Indonesian Universities

by 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 [...] Read more.

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. Full article

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24 pages, 2315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Decade of Transformation in Higher Education and Science in Kazakhstan: A Literature and Scientometric Review of National Projects and Research Trends

by 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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Abstract

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 [...] Read more.

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. Full article

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26 pages, 3526 KiB

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

by 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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Abstract

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 [...] Read more.

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. Full article

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18 pages, 627 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mapping the Impact of Generative AI on Disinformation: Insights from a Scoping Review

by Alexandre López-Borrull and Carlos Lopezosa

Publications 2025, 13(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030033 - 21 Jul 2025

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Abstract

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: [...] Read more.

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. Full article

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25 pages, 442 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond Books: Student Perspectives on Emerging Technologies, Usability, and Ethics in the Library of the Future

by 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

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Abstract

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 [...] Read more.

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. Full article

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30 pages, 2323 KiB

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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Abstract

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 [...] Read more.

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. Full article

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24 pages, 1952 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How China Governs Open Science: Policies, Priorities, and Structural Imbalances

by Xiaoting Chen, Abdelghani Maddi and Yanyan Wang

Publications 2025, 13(3), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications13030030 - 23 Jun 2025

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Abstract

This article investigates the architecture and institutional distribution of policy tools supporting open science (OS) in China. Based on a corpus of 199 policy documents comprising 25,885 policy statements, we apply an AI-assisted classification to analyze how the Chinese government mobilizes different types [...] Read more.

This article investigates the architecture and institutional distribution of policy tools supporting open science (OS) in China. Based on a corpus of 199 policy documents comprising 25,885 policy statements, we apply an AI-assisted classification to analyze how the Chinese government mobilizes different types of tools. Using Qwen-plus, a large language model developed by Alibaba Cloud and fine-tuned for OS-related content, each policy statement is categorized into one of fifteen subcategories under three main types: supply-oriented, environment-oriented, and demand-oriented tools. Our findings reveal a strong dominance of supply-oriented tools (63%), especially investments in infrastructure, education, and public services. Demand-oriented tools remain marginal (11%), with little use of economic incentives or regulatory obligations. Environment-oriented tools show more balance but still underrepresent key components like incentive systems and legal mandates for open access. To deepen the analysis, we introduce a normalized indicator of institutional focus, which captures the relative emphasis of each policy type across administrative levels. Results show that supply-oriented tools are concentrated at top-level institutions, reflecting a top-down governance model. Demand tools are localized at lower levels, highlighting limited strategic commitment. Overall, China’s OS policy mix prioritizes infrastructure over incentives, limiting systemic transformation toward a more sustainable open science ecosystem. Full article

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Publications, Volume 13, Issue 3 (September 2025) – 7 articles

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