Representation of less-developed countries in Pharmacology journals: an online survey of corresponding authors
2011

Challenges for Authors from Less-Developed Countries in Pharmacology Journals

Sample size: 332 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Rohra Dileep K

Primary Institution: Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Hypothesis

What are the perceived difficulties faced by corresponding authors from less-developed countries in publishing in international Pharmacology journals?

Conclusion

Authors from less-developed countries believe that biased attitudes from editors and reviewers, along with poor writing skills, hinder their publication chances.

Supporting Evidence

  • 30.4% of papers in Pharmacology journals came from less-developed countries.
  • 76.5% of authors felt it was difficult to publish in quality journals.
  • 64.8% attributed publication difficulties to biased attitudes of editors and reviewers.

Takeaway

Scientists from poorer countries find it hard to get their research published in big journals because they think editors are biased and their writing isn't good enough.

Methodology

An online survey was conducted with corresponding authors of published papers in international Pharmacology journals to gather their opinions on publication difficulties.

Potential Biases

The classification of countries as developed or less-developed may not accurately reflect their research capabilities.

Limitations

The study only included papers from one issue of each journal, which may not represent the overall situation.

Participant Demographics

The majority of respondents were faculty (86.2%), with some students (6.6%) and industry personnel (4.2%).

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2288-11-60

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