How do I build a provenance record for each paper added to an evidence register?

Build a provenance record by capturing where each paper was found, its DOI or other identifier, the version, and the access date, then enforce those fields on every register entry so the entry can be reproduced later.

Fields to require

• Source location: the database, publisher site, or repository where you found the paper, plus the search route or record page used.
• Identifier: the DOI where one exists. A DOI lookup through Crossref returns the metadata deposited for that DOI, and DataCite's REST API exposes DOI metadata for works registered with it, so the identifier lets a later reader re-fetch the record.
• Version: the specific version or edition you read, since a register entry should point to the exact text behind the evidence.
• Access date: the date you retrieved the record, so a later reader can tell when the entry was assembled.
• Verification note: whether you checked the reference against the original source, following ICMJE advice to verify references against original sources and cite direct sources where possible.

Sequence for each entry

1. Record the source location and the identifier at the moment you add the paper, before moving to the next item. Expected result: every entry has a locatable origin.
2. Resolve the identifier through Crossref or DataCite and compare the returned title and authors with the paper you read. Expected result: a match confirms the identifier points to the intended work; a mismatch leaves the entry unresolved until you locate the correct record.
3. Enter the version and access date. Expected result: the entry names the exact text and the retrieval date.
4. Check the reference against the original source and note any retraction you find, per ICMJE guidance. Expected result: the entry reflects the source as published.
5. Apply the schema as a required-field check at entry time so an incomplete record is flagged before it enters the register.

Enforcement

Make each field mandatory in the register template and reject entries with a blank identifier, version, or access date. When a paper has no DOI, record the repository or publisher record location in its place and mark the identifier field as pending so the gap stays visible.