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DOI: 10.1177/0748233708089046
A review of conflict of interest, competing interest, and bias for toxicologistsEnvironmental Carcinogenesis Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA One of the issues often associated with scientific misconduct is conflict of interest. Although there is a lack of uniformity in the definition of conflict of interest, many express concerns that competing interests may bias research methods and the interpretation of data and conclusions. In extreme cases, conflict of interest activity could contribute to scientific misconduct, hinder the training of scientists, delay the dissemination of research results, lead to the harming of human health and the environment, and misdirect societys decisions that rely on science. This article is not a commentary or editorial but an attempt to supply an overview of what has been said, researched, and accomplished in the area of conflict of interest for toxicologists. Discussion of the financial, professional, and philosophical concerns associated with conflict of interest will be followed by brief discussion of general management approaches and the roles of scientists and organizations from all sectors (i.e., academia, industry, non-profit organizations, and government).
Key Words: academia bias competing interest conflict of interest editors ethics government industry journals law non-profit organizations scientific societies toxicology
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