In the news

2021:

Be careful where you publish: Fake/predatory journals hijacking or cloning legit journals. There was an attempt to hijack a journal…

OIG Details Missteps by Universities Handling Suspected Misconduct in NSF-Funded Research.  Plagiarism in grant proposals is a problem.

2020:

In today’s publish or perish environment, scholars and publishers can both be predatory.  This article takes a look at where we stand, why, and has useful tips for avoiding the predatory journals and conferences (Predatory journals and Conferences: why fake counts).

Good news is that we seem to be recognizing the issues with publications in questionable quality journals such that they are not being cited (How Frequently are Articles in Predatory Open Access Journals Cited)

2019:

A definition for Predatory journals and publishers:“Predatory journals and publishers are entities that prioritize self-interest at the expense of scholarship and are characterized by false or misleading information, deviation from best editorial and publication practices, a lack of transparency, and/or the use of aggressive and indiscriminate solicitation practices.” (Grudniewicz etal 2019 Nature 576:210-212)

Misconduct by faculty member costs Duke University $112.5M 

2018:
Are you liable for misconduct by scientific collaborators?  Answer seems to be YES.

OMICS, and affiliated companies ImedPub and Conference Series, one of the largest ‘predatory’ publishers and conference organizers  is being sued by the Federal Trade Commission in an attempt to have them change their predatory ways. The complaint filed in 2016 is working its way through the system:  OMICS – FTC

ORI (Office of Research Integrity) newsletter and website provides access to information and resources.

Check out the latest from Retraction Watch, a blog on scientific paper retractions and related activities.