Scientific unknown-base in medical field: Supporting problem-oriented priority setting in basic research / 中华医学科研管理杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:The present study delves into the realm of scientific unknowns, which serve as the primary representation of major scientific challenges and often give rise to subversive, non-consensus, and high-risk scientific problems. Addressing this pivotal aspect, we focus on the development of scientific unknown identification methods and tool platforms to provide essential data support for priority setting of basic research through a problem-oriented approach. Such efforts are imperative for managing the scientific and technological innovation system within the context of demands and problem-solving.Methods:While numerous knowledge bases have been established in the medical field, there remains a notable lack of focus on the unknown base. The paper synthesizes relevant literature and existing research, amalgamating the methodological paradigm of scientific big data research with text mining. This integration facilitates comprehensive interpretations and enlightening insights concerning the concept, identification methods, and construction of an unknown-base.Results:By systematically analyzing the concept of scientific unknowns, we present a recognition method based on cognitive state and logical rules. Furthermore, we discuss a classification framework and realization path for scientific unknowns from the dimensions of attribute, relationship, and disease, thereby providing foundational insights for the construction of a medical unknown database.Conclusions:Notably, the research on unknowns in medical science transcends disciplinary boundaries, encompassing the confluence of information science, data science, medical informatics, and science and technology management. As such, this paper seeks to expound upon the significance and application scenarios of unknown research in science, furnishing valuable ideas and references for scholars in the field.