Papers should spell out authors' roles

Abstract

production and the extent and pattern of flowering. Genes that confer male sterility are of particular value to the breeder, and account for about 8% of applications.Although much of the controversy surrounding genetically modified crops concerns herbicide tolerance, only 7% of applications relate directly to this trait. These include genes encoding glutathione S-transferase IIIc, acetolactate synthase, lycopene cyclase and a protein conferring glyphosate resistance. The complexity of gene function is well illustrated by the acetyl-CoA carboxylase gene, which confers herbicide tolerance in monocotyledons but is claimed primarily for regulating oil content.

Unethical practices in authorship of scientific papers

“…The authorship criteria are regularly debated at meetings of the Vancouver group although consensus on modifications remains elusive. One different system that has been suggested to overcome the restrictiveness of current authorship guidelines is to footnote papers with a list of the exact contributions of each person who has been conferred authorship 1,8 , 12,25 , 28 . There are several perceived advantages to such a system.…”

“…Firstly, apart from being more informative for readers, it may strengthen scientific teams because it would make it more difficult for individuals to usurp rewards not belonging to them. Secondly, the system may obviate possible disharmony over positioning within the by‐line because, irrespective of their position, authors would be given full credit according to their personal contribution 28 . Thirdly, a contributor's list would enable merit for academic productivity to be more accurately measured and aid potential employers in assessing the work of those they may employ 28,29 .…”

“…Secondly, the system may obviate possible disharmony over positioning within the by‐line because, irrespective of their position, authors would be given full credit according to their personal contribution 28 . Thirdly, a contributor's list would enable merit for academic productivity to be more accurately measured and aid potential employers in assessing the work of those they may employ 28,29 . Finally, listing the contributions of all researchers involved in a paper would make it easier for other scientists to contact the right person when they are seeking further information about a specialised area within the paper 28 …”

“…Thirdly, a contributor's list would enable merit for academic productivity to be more accurately measured and aid potential employers in assessing the work of those they may employ 28,29 . Finally, listing the contributions of all researchers involved in a paper would make it easier for other scientists to contact the right person when they are seeking further information about a specialised area within the paper 28 …”