The next five years for the JBMR: Opportunities and challenges

Abstract

As the fifth Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, it is appropriate to first acknowledge my distinguished predecessors, who have been instrumental in establishing the JBMR as the leading repository of knowledge for scientific and clinical research in bone and mineral metabolism. As the first Editor-in-Chief, the late Larry Raisz created a journal that rapidly became recognized as the best in the field and this tradition has been maintained and nurtured by the subsequent Editors-in-Chief—Marc Drezner, John Eisman, and Tom Clemens. Under the leadership of Tom Clemens the JBMR achieved its highest-ever impact factor, reviewing times reduced substantially, and the new publishing agreement forged with Wiley-Blackwell generated significant operational and financial benefits. It is a privilege to inherit this legacy and, together with the new editorial team, I will strive to ensure that high standards are maintained and the JBMR continues to grow. Since its initiation the international profile of the JBMR has increased, in particular with a growing number of submissions and publications from Asia. Over the next 5 years we intend to encourage even broader geographical representation of the JBMR and to ensure that leading European researchers see the JBMR as the first choice for submission of their work. Commentaries on highlighted articles and perspectives on topical issues will continue to be regular features and, in addition, the JBMR will publish four to six full-length reviews each year. Controversial papers published in other journals will be debated in Viewpoint articles. The current balance of basic science, translational, and clinical research that is unique to the JBMR will be continued and will include emerging topics of interest; for example, osteoimmunology, the relationships between muscle and bone, and the growing linkage of bone to systems biology. We recognize the importance to authors of consistently rapid review times and will take measures to shorten the review period further, while ensuring that the high quality of reviews is maintained. Scientific publishing is undergoing major changes that offer both opportunities and challenges. Open-access publishing is gaining momentum and allows wider dissemination of scientific knowledge, but as yet is not consistently funded by grant-giving and other institutions. In common with other journals, the JBMR is experiencing increasing online usage and the long-term future of print versions is uncertain. Several online bone journals have been launched in the last few years and more will follow. As these changes evolve, the JBMR will need to review and, where appropriate, adapt to the new environment. As Editor-in-Chief I will be supported by three Senior Associate Editors: Brendan Boyce, Bob Nissenson, and Cliff Rosen. Their expertise and wisdom will be invaluable in ensuring that the broad coverage and high quality of science in the JBMR is maintained. The team also includes 12 Associate Editors, all internationally renowned researchers, who will play a central role in safeguarding the scientific reputation of the JBMR. The importance of prompt and high-quality peer review cannot be overemphasized and the continued success of the JBMR depends on the generosity of those who give up their time to evaluate papers. The support and professionalism of the Wiley team will continue to underpin the progress of the JBMR and I look forward to working with Lynn King, the newly appointed Publications Director of ASBMR, who succeeds Bob Fulcher. The rapid pace of scientific and clinical advances in the bone field shows no sign of abating and the next 5 years should prove as exciting as the last. We look forward to playing a major role in the dissemination of new discoveries and the discussion of controversies and topical issues. Our first duty is to serve our readers and those who contribute to the JBMR, and we welcome your feedback, comments, and participation. I look forward to contributing with all involved toward the continued success and growth of the JBMR over the next 5 years.

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