Scientific field analysis based on the review of dissertation works

Abstract

Russian dissertations’ review case study related to the use of stabilometrics shows research opportunities for any selection of dissertations that can be used to study qualifying papers of different levels and profiles. The sample of 64 works including 58 Candidate’s dissertations and 6 Doctoral dissertations represents non-random purposively chosen sample. The analysis of a considerable number of observations involving a total of 9869 participants shows that stabilometrics is mainly applied in neurology and rehabilitation medicine; the study is also focused on the definition and exploitation of diagnostic potential of the technique. A typical dissertation work has about six findings — sample median and quartiles: Me = 6 (5; 7). A total of 366 findings are obtained. Quantitative characteristics of dissertations and candidates’ publications are described; profiles of typical works are drawn up. Five groups are singled out according to types of dissertations of the proposed sample; these five groups are connected to medical diagnostics, medical monitoring of body conditions, development of theoretical models, studying the physiology of sensing system, and the use of biofeedback for support reaction in training and treatment. Major organizations, Dissertation Councils, experts and capacity for the development of national stabilometrics are provided in the study. The works were presented to 41 Dissertation Councils at 32 organizations operating in 18 cities of Russia. The majority of thesis defenses took place in Moscow (25) and Saint Petersburg (11). Fifty-nine specialists from 37 leading institutions participated in scientific advising of 64 works; 117 persons acted as opponents. An average of 6 dissertation works were prepared a year. The findings of the theses of the specified period, achievements and shortcomings as well as the unification of this method are discussed in the paper.