Exploring Topics in Bibliometric Research Through Citation Networks and Semantic Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Bibliometrics, Scientometrics, and Informetrics
• Information and Library Science
• Science and Technology Studies

Background:

• The terms bibliometrics, scientometrics, and informetrics are increasingly used in academic literature.
• Understanding the adoption and publication patterns within these fields is crucial for tracking research trends.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey topic distributions and publication patterns within bibliometrics, scientometrics, and informetrics.
• To analyze the adoption and evolution of these terms in academic research.
• To provide insights into the expanding scope and application of bibliometric research.

Main Methods:

• Retrieved and analyzed 20,268 articles related to bibliometrics.
• Applied methodologies to identify topic representations and major trends within the literature.
• Examined term usage and publication patterns to understand field evolution.

Main Results:

• Observed major trends include theory, regional publication patterns, databases, and tools.
• Noted a significant increase in bibliometrics applications in management, public health, sustainability, and medical fields.
• Found bibliometrics has achieved broad generality, while scientometrics and informetrics may represent the core research more precisely.

Conclusions:

• Bibliometrics has expanded significantly beyond its traditional confines in library science.
• Scientometrics and informetrics may offer more specific descriptors for core bibliometric research.
• The study provides a multi-faceted view of a rapidly growing and diversifying research field.