The peripatetic fossils: part 3
The articles printed below are by co-authors of some of the papers called into doubt by Talent. Two are by close colleagues of Gupta at the Centre of Advanced Study in Geology at Panjab University.
Research Integrity: The Bedrock of the Geosciences
Research integrity (RI) is fundamental in all areas of scientific endeavor. As scientists, we rely and build on the scientific record and if this is being deliberately distorted, then it not only results in the waste of resources, especially time, and may divert research into dead ends but it also erodes public confidence in science. Policies are now in place both to address misconduct and, through educational programs, to promote the responsible conduct of research. The frequency of misconduct is discussed and four famous cases in geosciences spanning the twentieth century are described. Recent developments in the formulation of RI policy are outlined culminating in the Singapore Statement, one of the key foundational documents in the evolution of RI policy. The four principles and 14 responsibilities of researchers and their institutions are given. While there is a need for education and training and for institutions to create the best conditions to promote good research, ultimately, responsibility for the good conduct must lie with the individual. There can be no other way.
Improving water use in agriculture : experiences in the Middle East and North Africa
Emerging water shortages are of great concern in many countries of the region. As the agricultural sector is generally by far the most important water consumer and higher priority is given to meeting domestic and industrial water demands, it is to be expected that gradually less water will be available for agriculture. An overview is given of present system and on-farm water use efficiencies and the potential for water savings and yield increases through the use of improved distribution networks and more appropriate irrigation technologies for smallholders. The water conservation efforts of Israel, Cyprus and Jordan are examined in detail with respect to institutions, the irrigation infrastructure, water charges and demand management, operation and maintenance, irrigation scheduling and extension, technology development and transfer, the role of the private sector, quality control on irrigation equipment, land tenure and land consolidation, and water users associations. The World Bank's experience with lending for the irrigation sector in the region is also described. The elements that would need to be considered for inclusion in a national program for water conservation in the agricultural sector are identified.