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What influences the number of citations of scientific articles? Study on colloid and interface science

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  • Rafał Zbonikowski

    (Polish Academy of Sciences
    University of Warsaw)

Abstract

Citations are one of the key metrics in assessing the utility of a scientific article and, in consequence, in assessing a scientific career. Despite various objections to the validity of such a predictor, citations are considered in grant acquisition, recruitment or even journal review processes. However, not only merits may contribute to the performance of scientific research. This work presents factors, mostly those related to the authors and manuscript composition, that influence the number of citations gained by scientific articles. The created database collected almost 30 variables and around 50 of their functions or interactions that describe papers published in physicochemical journals related to colloid and interface science. The coarse examination was carried out by comparison of the parameters with respect to the journals. Subsequently, the data was investigated using multivariate analysis—classical linear regression model. The method, usually applied in econometrics, determined significant and insignificant factors. Eventually, a log-linear model is presented, allowing the optimisation of the writing process of a manuscript to increase the utility of a physicochemical article.

Suggested Citation

  • Rafał Zbonikowski, 2025. "What influences the number of citations of scientific articles? Study on colloid and interface science," Scientometrics, Springer;Akadémiai Kiadó, vol. 130(5), pages 2577-2593, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:scient:v:130:y:2025:i:5:d:10.1007_s11192-025-05311-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s11192-025-05311-4
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