Algorithmic
Adjudication.
We do not rely on self-reported disclosures. We interrogate the citation graph itself to reveal the latent structures of influence.
01 // The Topological Thesis
Scientific corruption is rarely isolated; it is topological. Bad actors do not operate in vacuums—they form density clusters. By mapping the geodesic distance between co-authors and citing entities, PeerTrust identifies Reciprocity Rings: closed-loop systems where citations are currency, not validation.
02 // Velocity Forensics
Organic impact growth follows predictable diffusion curves. Artificial inflation leaves a distinct kinetic signature: high-velocity bursts of citation uptake within 6-12 months of publication, originating from disjointed geographic nodes. Our Velocity Bursts engine flags these anomalies as probable algorithmic manipulation or "paper mill" injection.
03 // Network Isolation
True scientific impact is porous; it bleeds across disciplines. Fabricated impact is insular. We measure the Network Porosity of a researcher's footprint. High citation counts with low porosity (citations only coming from a fixed set of recurring identities) triggers an immediate Level-4 Risk Flag.