Exploring the decentralized science ecosystem: insights on organizational structures, technologies, and funding

It may state two separate claims as one.

Twenty-one projects responded to the organizational affiliations question, and 62% indicated that their projects are associated with other organizations.

“Twenty-one projects responded to the question regarding their organizational affiliations, with 62% indicating that their projects are associated with other organizations.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Four projects indicated slower progress due to barriers such as lack of funding (cited by all four) and leadership challenges (cited by two).

“However, four projects indicated slower progress due to barriers, such as lack of funding (cited by all four) and leadership challenges (cited by two), including unclear objectives, undefined projects, and ineffective leadership structures.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Slow project progression in DeSci is due to leadership issues and limited funding for most DeSci projects.

“Our findings offer a comprehensive overview of the progress and challenges facing the DeSci ecosystem, including slow project progression due to leadership issues and limited funding for most DeSci projects.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: The 55 responding organizations are representative of the DeSci ecosystem.

It may state two separate claims as one.

A chi-squared test showed a significant deviation from equal distribution across operational statuses (χ2 = 82.29, p < 0.001), indicating that the majority of projects remained operational while only a small fraction faced slower progress or ceased operations.

“The results of the chi-square test revealed a significant deviation from equal distribution (χ 2 = 82.29,p < 0.001), indicating that the majority of projects remained operational, while only a small fraction faced slower progress or ceased operations.”

The quote only partly states this claim.

Of 55 projects responding, 96% (n = 50) reported currently operational.

“Of the fifty-five projects that responded to the question,”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Of the 36 projects that focus on promotion, 16 achieve this by forming communities, while seven have ongoing educational programs.

“Of the 36 projects that focus on promotion, 16 achieve this by forming communities, while seven have ongoing educational programs, such as online seminars or in-person events.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

One project formed separate LLC in Europe, North America, and Asia.

“One project formed separate LLC in Europe, North America, and Asia.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

These projects aim to recruit more individuals to the DeSci ecosystem and onboard scientists to Web3.

“These projects also aim to recruit more individuals to the DeSci ecosystem and onboard scientists to Web3.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

They did so by creating networks of like-minded teams (19 projects, 40%), hosting educational activities (18 projects, 38%), or publishing their work (8 projects, 17%).

“Promoting DeSci (45 projects -95%): A large number of projects succeeded in promoting DeSci by creating networks of like-minded teams (19 projects -40%), hosting educational activities (18 projects -38%), or publishing their work (8 projects -17%).”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Research is identified as a focus area by 67% of the projects in Figure 3, but appears as a primary goal for only 7% of the projects in Figure 4.

“It is noteworthy that”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Some projects opted for LLC or for-profit C Corps, while others chose special jurisdictions such as the Marshall Islands.

“Some opted for Limited Liability Companies (LLC) or for-profit C Corps, while others chose special jurisdictions, such as the Marshall Islands.”

Probably not a substantial claim.

Forty-nine projects responded to the question regarding their Web3 organizational status.

“Forty-nine projects responded to the question regarding their Web3 organizational status.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

These collaborations enabled projects to raise funds, access legal representation, share research, build a client base, and coproduce content.

“These collaborations have enabled projects to raise funds, access legal representation, share research, build a client base, and coproduce content.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

18 projects (38%) reported onboarding achievements, differentiated into community growth (12 projects, 25%) and onboarding new members (6 projects, 12%).

“Onboarding (18 projects, 38%): We differentiated between community growth and engagement (12 projects, 25%) and onboarding new members (6 projects, 12%).”

It may state two separate claims as one.

The most common milestones included forming partnerships (15 projects, 32%), organizational development (12 projects, 25%), raising funds (8 projects, 17%), and building new infrastructure (7 projects, 15%).

“The most common milestones included forming partnerships (15 projects, 32%), organizational development (12 projects, 25%), raising funds (8 projects, 17%), and building new infrastructure (7 projects, 15%).”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Forty-two projects responded to the question about blockchain utilization.

“Forty-two projects responded to this question by providing insights into the distribution of blockchain usage.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

The most common focus areas were Research (69%), Community Building (61%), and Technical Infrastructure (55%).

“The most common focus areas were Research (69%), Community Building (61%), and Technical Infrastructure (55%).”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Among the multichain projects, 31% (n = 13) utilized three or more chains, whereas 14% (n = 6) operated on two chains.

“Among the multichain projects, 31% (n = 13) utilized three or more chains, whereas 14% (n = 6) operated on two chains.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Forty-five projects responded to the question about project goals, focusing on five major areas: building infrastructure, nurturing specific science domains, promoting DeSci, funding projects, and conducting research.

“Forty-five projects responded to this question, with the DeSci teams focusing on five major areas: building infrastructure, nurturing specific science domains, promoting DeSci, funding projects, and conducting research.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Four projects (19%) represent the Web3 arm of traditional organizations or adopt different business models from their original organizations.

“Spin-offs (four projects, 19%): These projects represent the Web3 arm of traditional organizations or adopt different business models from their original organizations.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

The most common feature was the use of multisignature wallets, but other features, such as on-chain voting or having their own token for governance, were present in nearly one out of every four projects surveyed.

“The most common feature was the use of multisignature wallets, but other features, such as on-chain voting or having their own token for governance, were present in nearly one out of every four projects surveyed.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Forty-eight teams responded to the question about engagement platforms.

“Forty-eight teams responded to this question, aiming to identify how people discover and participate in projects and the primary platform for key conversations and decisions.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Examples of technical infrastructure include healthcare platforms, computing marketplaces, layer 2 blockchains (L2s) designed for decentralized computing, intellectual property platforms, and data marketplaces with user ownership features.

“Examples include healthcare platforms, computing marketplaces, layer 2 blockchains (L2s) designed for decentralized computing, intellectual property platforms, and data marketplaces with user ownership features.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

The study underscores the limited adoption of DAO-specific features across the ecosystem, suggesting that most projects are still in a transitional phase toward full decentralization.

“The study also underscores the limited adoption of DAO-specific features across the ecosystem, suggesting that most projects are still in a transitional phase toward full decentralization.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

These projects may conduct research, fund projects, or create communities around their areas of expertise using Web3 tools to advance these domains.

“They may conduct research, fund projects, or create communities around their areas of expertise using Web3 tools to advance these domains.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

These projects engage in investment, crowdfunding, or other innovative funding mechanisms, either by incubating DAO/teams or by directly financing research initiatives.

“They engage in investment, crowdfunding, or other innovative funding mechanisms, either by incubating DAO/teams or by directly financing research initiatives.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Forty-seven projects responded to the question about achievements, and five major categories of achievements were identified: general milestones, DeSci promotion, use cases, product launches, and onboarding.

“Forty-seven projects responded to this question, and we identified five major categories of achievements for DeSci projects by 2023: general milestones, DeSci promotion, use cases, product launches, and onboarding.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Ethereum was the most frequently used platform (48% of single-chain projects), followed by Polygon (22%).

“The majority of projects (55%, n = 23) were based on a single chain, with Ethereum being the most frequently used platform (48% of single-chain projects), followed by Polygon (22%).”

It may state two separate claims as one.

The level of decentralization varies significantly, with only a subset of organizations adopting advanced DAO-specific features such as token-weighted voting or automated smart contract governance.

“However, the level of decentralization varies significantly, with only a subset of organizations adopting advanced DAO-specific features such as token-weighted voting or automated smart contract governance (Weidener and Spreckelsen, 2024).”

• cites Weidener and Spreckelsen, 2024Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The survey was reviewed by the authors and the lead author of the prior analysis to ensure clarity, relevance, and alignment with the study objectives.

“the survey was reviewed by the authors and lead author of the prior analysis to ensure clarity, relevance, and alignment with the study objectives.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Scientific reputation is influenced by a nuanced combination of factors including the quality of journals, the role of the researcher in authorship, and the significance of research within its field.

“However, it is important to recognize that scientific reputation is not determined solely by these quantitative indicators; instead, it is influenced by a more nuanced combination of factors, including the quality of journals, the role of the researcher in authorship (e.g., lead or corresponding author), and the significance of research within its field (Hicks et al., 2015).”

• cites Hicks et al., 2015 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

No control questions or formal pre-test was conducted.

“Although no control questions or formal pre-test was conducted”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Measures were taken to enhance data integrity during the data-cleaning phase, such as systematically removing responses identified as non-serious or duplicate.

“Additionally, measures were taken to enhance data integrity during the data-cleaning phase, such as systematically removing responses identified as non-serious or duplicate.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Early approaches using blockchain technology for implementing open science principles and advocating for transparency, collaboration, and accessibility in scientific research have emerged.

“In recent years, amid the ever-changing blockchain technology landscape, early approaches using blockchain technology for implementing open science principles and advocating for transparency, collaboration, and accessibility in scientific research have emerged (Hamburg, 2021;Leible et al., 2019).”

• cites Hamburg, 2021 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites Leible et al., 2019 sourceCheck pending

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence.

Complementary verification tools such as oracles or decentralized identity solutions are needed to validate data authenticity.

“This limitation underscores the need for complementary verification tools such as oracles or decentralized identity solutions to validate data authenticity.”

Probably not a substantial claim.

Only responses from projects that provided answers to a given question were included in each corresponding dataset.

“To ensure the integrity of the analysis, only responses from projects that provided answers to specific questions were included in each corresponding dataset.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

No formal ethical approval was sought because the data were collected anonymously and did not involve sensitive personal information.

“No formal ethical approval was sought for this study, as the data were collected in an anonymized manner and did not involve sensitive personal information.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Some projects use multi-signature wallets for treasury management, whereas others implement on-chain voting mechanisms or issue governance tokens to facilitate participatory decision-making.

“For example, some projects use multi-signature wallets for treasury management, whereas others implement on-chain voting mechanisms or issue governance tokens to facilitate participatory decision-making (Ding et al., 2023a).”

• cites Ding et al., 2023aNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

DAO have been proposed as frameworks to enhance governance, transparency, and collaboration in science.

“DAO have been proposed as frameworks to enhance governance, transparency, and collaboration in science (Introna, 2016;Sicard, 2022).”

• cites Introna, 2016 sourceNot checked yet
• cites Sicard, 2022 sourceCheck pending

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Blockchain technology cannot verify the authenticity of provided data itself; it ensures immutability and traceability but does not assess validity or accuracy.

“Blockchain technology cannot verify the authenticity of the provided data itself, as the system only ensures the immutability and traceability of the recorded information, but does not assess its validity or accuracy.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

All participants representing the identified DeSci organizations provided informed consent for the use and analysis of their responses.

“All participants representing the identified DeSci organizations provided informed consent for the use and analysis of their responses.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

A small group of companies concentrates the majority of published academic material, along with very high fees for publishing academic research.

“It is estimated that a small group of companies concentrates on the majority of published academic material, along with very high fees for publishing academic research (Cudennec et al., 2022).”

• cites Cudennec et al., 2022 sourceCheck pending

It may state two separate claims as one.

Adoption of fully decentralized features remains inconsistent across projects, with many blending traditional and decentralized elements to meet operational demands.

“Despite their potential, the adoption of fully decentralized features remains inconsistent across projects, with many blending traditional and decentralized elements to meet operational demands (Weidener et al., 2024).”

• cites Weidener et al., 2024 sourceNot checked yet

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Billions of dollars are allocated to research that ends up being irreproducible and thus unverifiable.

“This has economic effects since billions of dollars are allocated to research that ends up being irreproducible and thus unverifiable (Mirowski, 2018).”

• cites Mirowski, 2018 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Open Science allows collaboration and contribution, with research data, lab memos, and processes freely available under terms allowing reuse, redistribution, and reproduction.

“Research data, lab memos, and other research processes are at free disposition under terms that allow the reuse, redistribution, and reproduction of studies, along with their corresponding methodologies and data (Leible et al., 2019).”

• cites Leible et al., 2019 sourceCheck pending

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Coding results were crosschecked within the research team to ensure consistency and enable a consensus-based approach to theme development.

“To validate the coding process and minimize potential bias, the results were crosschecked within the research team to ensure consistency and enable a consensusbased approach to theme development.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The authors may not put it forward as true. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Smaller teams perform better in scientific discovery and disruption.

“Early approaches to leverage DAO to enhance innovation and discovery have been found in academic literature, arguing that smaller teams perform better in scientific discovery and disruption (Wu et al., 2019;Xu et al., 2022).”

• cites Wu et al., 2019Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Xu et al., 2022Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

It may state two separate claims as one.

The limited adoption of multichain approaches and the presence of projects that do not utilize blockchain technology reflect both technological constraints and resource limitations, as well as a divergence from core decentralization principles in some initiatives.

“The limited adoption of multichain approaches and the presence of projects that do not utilize blockchain technology reflect both technological constraints and resource limitations, as well as a divergence from core decentralization principles in some initiatives.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

The reliance on Ethereum and limited multichain use may also reflect a cautious approach in an uncertain regulatory environment.

“The reliance on Ethereum and limited multichain use may also reflect a cautious approach in an uncertain regulatory environment.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The absence of control questions in the survey design is a limitation.

“The absence of control questions in the survey design is another limitation.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Projects could prioritize single-chain solutions to ensure stability before exploring more complex multi-chain strategies, which might become necessary for scalability and broader adoption in the future.

“Projects could prioritize single-chain solutions to ensure stability before exploring more complex multi-chain strategies, which might become necessary for scalability and broader adoption in the future.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Reliance on survey responses may not fully represent the perspectives of the entire organization.

“Another limitation arises from the reliance on survey responses, which may not fully represent the perspectives of the entire organization.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

VitaDAO has deployed over $4.2 million to fund over 20 research projects since 2021, including a $285,000 investment in Newcastle University's Korolchuk Lab.

“Since its launch in 2021, VitaDAO has deployed over $4.2 million to fund over 20 research projects, including a noteworthy $285,000 investment in Newcastle University's Korolchuk Lab to identify novel autophagy activators that could play a critical role in treating age-related diseases.”

• cites Fantaccini et al., 2024 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

The focus on user-centered approaches aligns with the Web3 principle of decentralization, suggesting that DeSci projects intentionally position themselves as accessible and participatory platforms for diverse stakeholders.

“Additionally, the focus on user-centered approaches aligns with the Web3 principle of decentralization, suggesting that DeSci projects intentionally position themselves as accessible and participatory platforms for diverse stakeholders, including scientists and non crypto natives.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. It may state two separate claims as one.

This lack of transparency can hinder trust and raise concerns within the community.

“This lack of transparency can hinder trust and raise concerns within the community.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

It is unclear whether there was an internal consensus within these organizations regarding the submitted responses.

“It is unclear whether there was an internal consensus within these organizations regarding the submitted responses.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

DeSci teams could adopt a progressive decentralization approach, as other DAO have done or deviated from the DAO model, and adopt new frameworks for decentralized organizations.

“We could expect that DeSci teams would adopt a progressive decentralization approach, as other DAO have done or deviated from the DAO model, and adopt new frameworks for decentralized organizations (Qin et al., 2023).”

• cites Qin et al., 2023 sourceCheck pending

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

It may also increase the level of trust from the general public, especially in countries where cryptocurrency adoption is still resisted or questioned.

“It may also increase the level of trust from the general public, especially in countries where cryptocurrency adoption is still resisted or questioned.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

Heavy reliance on government funding could potentially constrain innovation if projects must align with strict funding mandates or bureaucratic requirements.

“However, heavy reliance on government funding could potentially constrain innovation if projects must align with strict funding mandates or bureaucratic requirements.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The future of science may see coexistence and collaboration between traditional (TradSci) and decentralized (DeSci) models.

“The future of science may see coexistence and collaboration between traditional (TradSci) and decentralized (DeSci) models (Friedman et al., 2022).”

• cites Friedman et al., 2022 sourceCheck pending

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

In contexts where trust in traditional financial systems is low or economic instability prevails, cryptocurrency adoption may be more appealing, facilitating the use of decentralized funding mechanisms.

“In contexts where trust in traditional financial systems is low or economic instability prevails, cryptocurrency adoption may be more appealing, facilitating the use of decentralized funding mechanisms.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

At least half of DeSci teams focus on drug discovery or biological sciences, whereas social sciences or engineering areas are hardly present.

“Based on the three primary sources mentioned in Section 3.1 and the responses we got from our survey, we estimate that at least half of DeSci teams focus on drug discovery or biological sciences, whereas social sciences or engineering areas are hardly present here.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

The focus on a single blockchain and related ecosystem could also remove some of the complexities that may be helpful in onboarding non-cryptocurrency native individuals.

“The focus on a single blockchain and related ecosystem could also remove some of the complexities that may be helpful in onboarding non-cryptocurrency native individuals.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

While structured organizations are common in the DeSci ecosystem, the integration of DAO-specific features remains limited.

“These findings highlight that, while structured organizations are common in the DeSci ecosystem, the integration of DAO-specific features remains limited.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The absence of formal intercoder reliability assessments leaves room for further improvements to ensure objectivity.

“However, the absence of formal intercoder reliability assessments leaves room for further improvements to ensure objectivity.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Individual respondents, particularly those in leadership or public-facing roles, may have overemphasized positive outcomes while underreporting challenges or failures, leading to potential bias in the representation of project achievements.

“Individual respondents, particularly those in leadership or public-facing roles, may have overemphasized positive outcomes while underreporting challenges or failures, leading to potential bias in the representation of project achievements.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence.

These associations are a positive strategy for 'anchoring' with the general scientific system.

“We see these associations as a positive strategy for”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

This study highlights the need for further research to address gaps in representation, such as the underrepresentation of non-Western projects and a lack of demographic diversity within DeSci organizations.

“Despite its contributions, this study highlights the need for further research to address gaps in representation, such as the underrepresentation of non-Western projects and a lack of demographic diversity within DeSci organizations.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

DeSci is in a formative stage, where projects blend decentralization with practical adaptations to meet current operational demands, setting the stage for incremental, rather than revolutionary, decentralization.

“These connections to existing literature suggest that DeSci is in a formative stage, where projects blend decentralization with practical adaptations to meet current operational demands, setting the stage for incremental, rather than revolutionary, decentralization.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds. It may state two separate claims as one.

The platform's established infrastructure and the support it receives from influential figures such as Vitalik Buterin likely contributed to this trend.

“The platform's established infrastructure and the support it receives from influential figures such as Vitalik Buterin, who has been a vocal advocate of DeSci, likely contributed to this trend.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

The overrepresentation of partnerships could signal reliance on external structures for legitimacy and stability in a nascent field, highlighting the challenges of scaling purely decentralized approaches.

“Alternatively, the overrepresentation of partnerships could signal reliance on external structures for legitimacy and stability in a nascent field, highlighting the challenges of scaling purely decentralized approaches.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

They present an opportunity to bring legitimacy to the general cryptocurrency-related space.

“They also present an opportunity to bring legitimacy to the general cryptocurrency-related space (Lehner et al., 2017).”

• cites Lehner et al., 2017 sourceCheck pending

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence.

The long-term success of these collaborations depends on balancing decentralization with the constraints of traditional organizational models.

“However, the long-term success of these collaborations depends on balancing decentralization with the constraints of traditional organizational models.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

The survey design, constrained to a concise 16-question format, ensured accessibility but limited the exploration of complex phenomena.

“The survey design, constrained to a concise 16-question format, ensured accessibility, but limited the exploration of complex phenomena.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

The utility of crypto-based funding may be diminished if cryptocurrencies cannot be used to procure essential research equipment, conversion of digital assets into fiat currency is prohibitively complex, or the absence of clear regulatory frameworks exposes researchers to legal or reputational risks.

“For example, the utility of crypto-based funding may be diminished if cryptocurrencies cannot be used to procure essential research equipment, conversion of digital assets into fiat currency is prohibitively complex, or the absence of clear regulatory frameworks exposes researchers to legal or reputational risks, such as accusations of illicit financial activities.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

The global disparity in crypto adoption, shaped by regulatory environments, cultural acceptance, and economic infrastructure, may create uneven opportunities for DeSci projects to expand beyond early adopters.

“Additionally, the global disparity in crypto adoption, shaped by factors such as regulatory environments, cultural acceptance, and economic infrastructure, may create uneven opportunities for DeSci projects to expand beyond early adopters.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Questions on organizational affiliations or the integration of DAO-specific features may have been interpreted inconsistently because of the absence of pretesting or control questions.

“For instance, questions on organizational affiliations or the integration of DAO-specific features may have been interpreted inconsistently because of the absence of pretesting or control questions.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

This could reflect the challenges in adopting decentralized governance or a preference for models that balance traditional and decentralized approaches.

“This could reflect the challenges in adopting decentralized governance or a preference for models that balance traditional and decentralized approaches.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The strategic focus on multiple areas could dilute resources, potentially leading to slower progress in critical areas such as technical infrastructure or funding mechanisms.

“However, the strategic focus on multiple areas could also dilute resources, potentially leading to slower progress in critical areas such as technical infrastructure or funding mechanisms.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Regulatory hurdles complicate cross-collaboration with traditional institutions, as compliance requirements often conflict with decentralized principles.

“Regulatory hurdles further complicate cross-collaboration with traditional institutions, as compliance requirements often conflict with decentralized principles.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

Some DeSci founding teams may selectively use blockchain technology for specific tasks, such as publishing or managing lab infrastructure, while retaining traditional organizational structures.

“Alternatively, some DeSci founding teams may selectively use blockchain technology for specific tasks, such as publishing or managing lab infrastructure, while retaining traditional organizational structures.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Projects with narrower focus areas may see faster progress in achieving tangible outcomes, thus providing an alternative operational model for others in the ecosystem.

“Projects with narrower focus areas may see faster progress in achieving tangible outcomes, thus providing an alternative operational model for others in the ecosystem.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper may give no reason why it holds. It may state two separate claims as one.

This study showcases the potential of DeSci to transform the scientific landscape by addressing key systemic issues and advancing equitable, transparent, and collaborative scientific practices.

“While challenges remain, this study showcases the potential of DeSci to transform the scientific landscape by addressing key systemic issues and advancing equitable, transparent, and collaborative scientific practices.”

Probably not a substantial claim.

The emphasis on community building, even among tech-and research-focused projects, highlights the shift towards user-centered models where engagement and participation are paramount.

“The emphasis on community building, even among tech-and research-focused projects, highlights the shift towards user-centered models where engagement and participation are paramount.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

The maturation process of DeSci projects is reflected in the diverse organizational structures and partnerships they are forming, which are essential for navigating the legal, economic, and social systems that science interacts with.

“This maturation process is reflected in the diverse organizational structures and partnerships that DeSci projects are forming, which are essential for navigating the legal, economic, and social systems that science interacts with.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence.

These associations are a way for DeSci to transition from a niche innovation into an established component of a scientific regime.

“We also see these associations as a way for DeSci to transition from a niche innovation into an established component of a scientific regime.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

Probably not a substantial claim. It may state two separate claims as one.

This research offers new insights into the limited integration of DAO-specific features, persistent reliance on centralized elements, and barriers posed by funding shortages and leadership issues.

“While some findings, such as the dominance of Ethereum confirm existing knowledge, this research offers new insights into the limited integration of DAO-specific features, persistent reliance on centralized elements, and barriers posed by funding shortages and leadership issues.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

While structured organizations are common in the DeSci ecosystem, only a small subset incorporate sufficient DAO-specific features to qualify as 'true' DAO.

“The results showed a highly significant difference (z = 5.58, p < 0.001), confirming that while structured organizations are common in the DeSci ecosystem, only a small subset incorporate sufficient DAO-specific features to qualify as”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

The current focus of DeSci on biotech and longevity projects reflects its concentration in fields with clearer funding opportunities and established blockchain applications.

“The current focus of DeSci on biotech and longevity projects underscores this point, reflecting its concentration in fields with clearer funding opportunities and established blockchain applications.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

This could reflect barriers, such as the complexity of implementing decentralized governance systems or a preference for hybrid approaches that balance traditional and decentralized elements.

“This could reflect barriers, such as the complexity of implementing decentralized governance systems or a preference for hybrid approaches that balance traditional and decentralized elements (Goldberg and Schär, 2023).”

• cites Goldberg and Schär, 2023 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Qualitative coding lacks formal validation measures, such as intercoder reliability assessments, potentially introducing subtle biases during thematic development and interpretation.

“Finally, qualitative coding lacks formal validation measures, such as intercoder reliability assessments, potentially introducing subtle biases during thematic development and interpretation.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

As DeSci projects mature, they increasingly require specialized members to manage the growing complexity within their organizations.

“As DeSci projects continue to mature, they increasingly require specialized members to manage the growing complexity within their organizations.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

VitaDAO's success exemplifies the potential of DAO frameworks to disrupt traditional research funding and enable impactful scientific innovation in a decentralized ecosystem.

“VitaDAO's success exemplifies the potential of DAO frameworks to disrupt traditional research funding and enable impactful scientific innovation in a decentralized ecosystem.”

• cites Fantaccini et al., 2024 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence.

This could make an argument for DeSci organizations to think about hybrid models or adapt decentralized features in a way that fits their own necessities, instead of adopting the entire DAO stack just for the need to fit inside the DAO model.

“This could make an argument for DeSci organizations to think about hybrid models or adapt decentralized features in a way that fits their own necessities, instead of adopting the entire DAO stack just for the need to fit inside the DAO model.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

The ecosystem's broader role is facilitating scientific advancements, with fewer projects positioning research as their primary operational objective.

“This distinction underscores the ecosystem's broader role in facilitating scientific advancements, with fewer projects positioning research as their primary operational objective.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

This trend differentiates DeSci projects from other Web3 initiatives that often operate independently.

“This trend differentiates DeSci projects from other Web3 initiatives that often operate independently.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Quantitative analyses, including chi-square tests and z-tests for proportions, were performed collaboratively and crosschecked within the research team.

“To mitigate this, quantitative analyses, including statistical tests, such as chi-square tests and z-tests for proportions, were performed collaboratively and crosschecked within the research team.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Broadening the use of blockchain platforms and exploring multichain interoperability could help projects mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on a single ecosystem, as well as compensate for the higher costs associated with fees.

“Broadening the use of blockchain platforms and exploring multichain interoperability could help projects mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on a single ecosystem, as well as compensate for the higher costs associated with fees.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Expanding these partnerships to include diverse fields and geographies could enhance the ability of DeSci to address global scientific challenges more equitably.

“Expanding these partnerships to include diverse fields and geographies could enhance the ability of DeSci to address global scientific challenges more equitably.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

Government funding may provide a stabilizing effect on early-stage projects or basic science research projects offering reliable support that complements the flexibility of decentralized funding mechanisms.

“Furthermore, government funding may provide a stabilizing effect on earlystage projects or basic science research projects offering reliable support that complements the flexibility of decentralized funding mechanisms.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Collaborations with traditional scientific institutions could also be beneficial in overcoming the negative perceptions surrounding the cryptospace.

“Collaborations with traditional scientific institutions could also be beneficial in overcoming the negative perceptions surrounding the cryptospace.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

It may state two separate claims as one.

DAO-like governance frameworks bring their own set of challenges for voting, long-term viability of the organization based on the incentives it provides, and coordination of internal and external operations.

“DAO-like governance frameworks bring their own set of challenges for voting (Goldber and Schär, 2023), long-term viability of the organization based on the incentives it provides (Rikken et al., 2019), and coordination of internal and external operations (Sharma, T. et al., 2024).”

• cites Goldber and Schär, 2023Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Rikken et al., 2019 sourceCheck pending
• cites Sharma, T. et al., 2024 sourceCheck pending

It may state two separate claims as one.

Responses were collected from 55 of the 133 identified and contacted organizations, representing a 41.35% response rate.

“Responses were collected from 55 of the 133 identified and contacted organizations, representing a 41.35% response rate.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

Such models could serve as templates for scalability and sustainability within the DeSci ecosystem.

“Such models could serve as templates for scalability and sustainability within the DeSci ecosystem.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. It may state two separate claims as one.

Partnering with organizations such as universities or private research institutes could enhance trust and facilitate the integration of DeSci within the sociotechnical system of science.

“This is why partnering with organizations, such as universities or private research institutes, could enhance trust and facilitate the integration of DeSci within the sociotechnical system of science (Geels, 2019).”

• cites Geels, 2019 sourceCheck pending

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

It may state two separate claims as one.

Early stage projects often lack the resources to fully embrace decentralization, while navigating compliance and infrastructure limitations.

“The limited adoption of DAO-specific features observed in this study echoes findings arguing that early stage projects often lack the resources to fully embrace decentralization, while navigating compliance and infrastructure limitations (Axelsen et al., 2022).”

• cites Axelsen et al., 2022 sourceCheck pending

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The coexistence of TradSci and DeSci models offers the potential to blend the strengths of each system, enabling a more adaptive and inclusive approach to scientific discovery.

“The coexistence of the TradSci and DeSci models offers the potential to blend the strengths of each system, enabling a more adaptive and inclusive approach to scientific discovery.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

Fully decentralized decision making can introduce inefficiencies that hinder rapid development, leading projects to adopt hybrid governance models.

“For example, fully decentralized decision making can introduce inefficiencies that hinder rapid development, leading projects to adopt hybrid governance models (Rikken et al., 2019).”

• cites Rikken et al., 2019 sourceCheck pending

It may state two separate claims as one.

Organizations facing operational challenges or those that are less integrated into visible ecosystems may be underrepresented.

“In particular, organizations facing operational challenges or those that are less integrated into visible ecosystems may be underrepresented.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The DAO structure can help tackle the open washing problem.

“The DAO structure can also help tackle the”

• cites Miao et al., 2023 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

The predominance of Ethereum as the primary blockchain for DeSci projects despite its higher transaction fees can be attributed to the robust and trusted Ethereum community.

“The predominance of Ethereum as the primary blockchain for DeSci projects despite its higher transaction fees can be attributed to the robust and trusted Ethereum community.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

This could be expected from these early stage organizations, as they cannot afford to completely decentralize and operate on-chain while they are still figuring out how to build new infrastructure and services for scientific research.

“However, this could be expected from these early stage organizations, as they cannot afford to completely decentralize and operate on-chain while they are still figuring out how to build new infrastructure and services for scientific research.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. It may state two separate claims as one.

This highlights the potential for DeSci projects to integrate within the existing scientific funding landscape, while also pushing the boundaries of how science can be funded and conducted.

“This highlights the potential for DeSci projects to integrate within the existing scientific funding landscape, while also pushing the boundaries of how science can be funded and conducted.”

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Although only a small percentage of projects sought government funding, the fact that some DeSci initiatives are exploring this avenue is noteworthy.

“Although only a small percentage of projects sought government funding, the fact that some DeSci initiatives are exploring this avenue is noteworthy.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. It may state two separate claims as one.

This choice underscores the importance of trust and community in the decision-making processes of DeSci projects, suggesting that, even in a decentralized ecosystem, the reputation and stability of the underlying technology play a significant role.

“This choice underscores the importance of trust and community in the decision-making processes of DeSci projects, suggesting that, even in a decentralized ecosystem, the reputation and stability of the underlying technology play a significant role.”

It may state two separate claims as one.

DAO can be used to govern data markets and enhance discoveries in different scientific fields.

“DAO can be used to govern data markets (Ding et al., 2023a) and enhance discoveries in different scientific fields, such as longevity, reproductive health, and machine learning (Fantaccini et al., 2024).”

• cites Ding et al., 2023aNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites Fantaccini et al., 2024 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

It may state two separate claims as one.

Partnerships may provide a strategic advantage in accessing resources and networks, explaining their predominance in decentralized science ecosystems.

“These findings suggest that partnerships may provide a strategic advantage in accessing resources and networks, explaining their predominance in decentralized science ecosystems.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.

Decentralization can democratize access to scientific knowledge and resources, but often faces resistance from traditional systems entrenched in hierarchical governance and centralized funding.

“Recent literature highlights both the promise and complexity of decentralization in science, emphasizing that decentralization can democratize access to scientific knowledge and resources, but often faces resistance from traditional systems entrenched in hierarchical governance and centralized funding (Wang et al., 2019).”

• cites Wang et al., 2019 sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. It may state two separate claims as one.

Such partnerships may enhance credibility, demonstrate the practical benefits of decentralized technologies, and foster trust within the broader scientific community and general public.

“Such partnerships may enhance credibility, demonstrate the practical benefits of decentralized technologies, and foster trust within the broader scientific community and general public.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

Limited engagement with government funding may also suggest barriers related to regulatory uncertainty or misalignments with the priorities of traditional funding agencies.

“However, limited engagement with government funding may also suggest barriers related to regulatory uncertainty or misalignments with the priorities of traditional funding agencies.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.

The lack of focus on expanding into underrepresented regions or disciplines, such as the social sciences and engineering, may restrict the breadth of this integration.

“However, the lack of focus on expanding into underrepresented regions or disciplines, such as the social sciences and engineering, may restrict the breadth of this integration.”

• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Much of the world's scientific research is conducted within traditional institutions such as universities, private research institutes, and NGOs.
• AssumptionRests on an assumption: Disruptive innovations in DeSci require time to diffuse and stabilize within the general scientific system.

Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

Significant challenges may arise in environments that are either highly or excessively unregulated.

“Conversely, significant challenges may arise in environments that are either highly or excessively unregulated.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may be too vague to check against evidence. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.

The degree of interaction between decentralized and traditional scientific models is highly context-dependent and is influenced by the broader economic, regulatory, and institutional environment in which scientific activities occur.

“The degree of interaction between decentralized and traditional scientific models is highly context-dependent and is influenced by the broader economic, regulatory, and institutional environment in which scientific activities occur.”

Probably not a substantial claim. It may state two separate claims as one.

Open standards and blockchain-based governance are necessary, but not sufficient, conditions for a decentralized and neutral platform.

“Recent studies highlight that open standards and blockchainbased governance are necessary, but not sufficient, conditions for a decentralized and neutral platform.”