Citation advantage analysis of preprints for highly cited scholars based on journal articles

Abstract:  [Purposes] This study explores the citation advantage of preprints published by highly cited scholars and compares this advantage with their journal article citation advantage, aiming to reveal and understand the role of author reputation in the dissemination and diffusion of preprints. [Methods] Taking preprints from the platforms arXiv, bioRxiv, and medRxiv as the research objects, we group together preprints that were posted on the same platform in the same year and subsequently published in the same journal within that year. Within each group, the primary author of the most highly cited preprint is defined as a highly cited scholar, while authors whose citation counts are more than 1% lower than that of the highly cited scholar are defined as non-highly cited scholars. Linear regression models were used to compare the citation differences between preprints authored by highly cited scholars and non-highly cited scholars, as well as the differences after formal journal publication. [Findings] Preprints and journal articles published by highly cited scholars both exhibit a citation advantage, with the citation advantage being more pronounced in journal articles than in preprints. [Conclusions] Author reputation plays a crucial role in the dissemination and diffusion of preprints, as preprints published by highly cited scholars receive more attention and citations. It is recommended that preprint platforms optimize their recommendation algorithms to enhance the fairness of scientific communication.