Predatory Conferences: What Are the Signs?

Abstract

Like predatory journals, predatory conferences are a growing part of the academic landscape, but unlike their journal counterparts, to date predatory conferences have not been extensively investigated, and many unanswered questions about their workings exist. From a positive ethics perspective, a more complete understanding of predatory conferences is desirable, as it can support researchers in making ethically appropriate choices about conference attendance. Ten predatory conference organisations were the focus of this study. The investigation first set out to identify and document the attributes of such conferences. They were then analysed to understand which attributes can most easily and reliably be used to distinguish them from legitimate conferences. A tool to assist prospective participants is introduced. The implications for positive ethics, in terms of making decisions about conference attendance, are discussed.

Appendix

This appendix provides two abstracts; others are available from the author.

Abstract 1

Development of a Technology for Causing Surface-breaking Cracks

Ultrasonic techniques have been used for many purposes, including imaging of various sorts. Indeed, it would not be excessive to claim that ultrasound is a leading form of non-destructive evaluation and inspection. However, less known is the role which ultrasonic inspection can play in destructive evaluation. In order to establish the utility of this technique in the destructive testing domain, we conducted an experiment in which the foundations of buildings were placed under strain of different types. In the first condition, the foundations were stressed by the positioning of a large member of the species Gorilla gorilla at roof level. The experimental mammal was repeatedly exposed to irritation in the form of low-flying aircraft. In the second condition, the foundations were directly treated with applications of ultrasound. In a control condition, no direct stresses were applied, but the building was elevated by a large cyclon and dropped from a considerable height on a hard surface (constituents: brick; composition: Au). It was found that the ultrasound condition was more successful that the traditional technique in producing surface-breaking cracks. Implications for civil engineering will be discussed.

Abstract 2

Equine Fetlock Resistence Under Conditions of Stress Performance

The equine fetlock is fragile and constantly subject to stress and strain. This holds particularly true for animals who are used in high-intensity activities such as steeplechasing and flat racing. Many of the treatments which can add strength and endurance to these delicate joints are steroidal in nature and thereby involve an exclusion from competitive activities. Alternative approaches to this problem have therefore been sought. This paper reports an experiment in which thoroughbred horses were provided with betacarotene in varying doses. The two dosage ranges—low and high—were selected based on findings of previous studies. The betacarotene was administered in the form of intact exemplars of Daucus carota (n = 1 and 3, respectively) as previous experience showed that the experimental animals found this palatable and thus the ease of administration was considerably increased. A control group was not given a betacarotene supplement, but was instead administered with a crystalline form of the dried fluid from Saccharum officinarum, presented as a cube. In both control and experimental conditions, the dose was administered by a laboratory technician observing the appropriate protocol of presenting it on the flat of the palm. Findings demonstrated a remarkable increase in the speed with which the animals in the high dosage group returned from pasture, when compared with the low dosage group. It is not unreasonable to suppose that this correlated with increased joint strength, thus demonstrating the effectiveness of this treatment. However, the control group were prompter in their response than the low dosage group. Further research is needed to investigate whether a link can be found between joint strength and chemical compounds found in Saccharum officinarum.