Uncovering the Complexities of Mapped and Unmapped References in Open Access Literature

Open bibliographic metadata collections are crucial for research assessment and reproducibility in various fields, including scientometrics and science of science. These collections provide comprehensive and interoperable databases that enable transparent procedures, helping reform research evaluation globally. The article focuses on the analysis of mapped and non-mapped bibliographic resources (BRs) in OpenCitations Meta (OC Meta) and OpenAlex catalogue.
Multi-mapped BRs are entities with identical metadata across multiple sources, such as Crossref, DataCite, NIH-OCC, JaLC, or OpenAIRE. These resources offer valuable insights into the nature of processed data and help identify potential issues in replication studies. Non-mapped BRs, on the other hand, lack provable provenance information, hindering their assessment and reproducibility.
The study examines the primary sources of non-mapped entities in OC Meta, considering factors such as modified metadata information and raw data providers. By analyzing these resources, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the complexity of bibliographic metadata and the importance of standardization in enhancing reproducibility and assessment processes worldwide.
In summary, this article highlights the significance of comprehensive and interoperable bibliographic databases for transparent research evaluation and replication studies. By mapping and analyzing BRs in OC Meta and OpenAlex, the study underscores the need for standardized metadata practices, ensuring reproducibility and assessment methods are reformed globally to improve the quality of research.