Contemporary scientometric analyses using a novel web application: the science performance evaluation (SciPE) approach

Abstract

Aims We aimed at developing a structured study protocol utilizing the bibliographic web-application science performance evaluation (SciPE) to perform comprehensive scientometric analyses. Methods and results Metadata related to publications derived from online databases were processed and visualized by trans ferring the information to an undirected multipartite graph and distinct partitioned sets of nodes. Also, institution-specifc data were normalized and merged allowing precise geocoordinate positioning, to enable heatmapping and valid identifcation. As a result, verifed, processed data regarding articles, institutions, journals, authors gender, nations and subject categories can be obtained. We recommend including the total number of publications, citations, the population, research institutions, gross domestic product, and the country-specifc modifed Hirsch Index and to form corresponding ratios (e.g., population/ publication). Also, our approach includes implementation of bioinformatical methods such as heatmapping based on exact geocoordinates, simple chord diagrams, and the central implementation of specifc ratios with plain visualization techniques. Conclusion This protocol allows precise conduction of contemporaneous scientometric analyses based on bioinformatic and meta-analytical techniques, allowing to evaluate and contextualize scientifc eforts. Data presentation with the depicted visualization techniques is mandatory for transparent and consistent analyses of research output across diferent nations and topics. Research performance can then be discussed in a synopsis of all fndings.