Elevating MAST-Data Publications with Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs).

The use of digital object identifiers (DOIs) to identify data sets used in original research allows peer reviewers and journal editors to more easily validate research methods and verify results. Fellow astronomers can duplicate results or expand on initial findings when the precise data used in a research project are identified. Precise identification of data may allow archives and observatories to better understand how the community is accessing and combining its data to reach new scientific conclusions. Earlier studies have suggested that papers with linked data are more highly cited in the literature, providing motivation for authors to adopt more stringent and thorough data citation practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]