[The journal impact factor in ophthalmological publications].
The journal impact factor, calculated annually by Thomson Scientific (Connecticut, USA), is widely used for many functions including the process of academic evaluation. This article reviews the current trend of the impact factor of journals dedicated to ophthalmology. Journals publishing a larger volume of articles on a broad range of topics, such as Archives of Ophthalmology, American Journal of Ophthalmology, and Ophthalmology, rank at the top in this aspect, and the majority of journals from the Europe and Japan have a lower impact factor. It is desirable to keep in mind inherent drawbacks of the journal impact factor and to use it wisely when assessing a person for tenure or grant.
Aichi Shukutoku University, Faculty of Medical Welfare. ohbanm@gctv.ne.jp
Norio
N
Ohba
D015706:Bibliometrics; D009885:Ophthalmology; D010506:Periodicals as Topic / Q000592:standards*