2024 Vol. I JISAKOS Editor in Chief's Message

Olufemi R. Ayeni, MD, PhD, MSc, FRCSC, CANADA

ISAKOS Newsletter   Newsletter Article 2024   Not yet rated

In June 2023, the JISAKOS impact factor was released at an impressive 1.6 (Journal Citation Reports® Clarivate Analytics, 2023). Since then, we are already seeing an increase in submissions, and I have been fortunate to witness the alignment of our editorial interests and talents as we continue to propel this journal forward as one of the leading sources of information in sports medicine.

Since taking on the position of Editor in Chief a few months ago, I have recognized and have begun to implement several worthwhile pursuits to advance the impact of JISAKOS. These include promoting excellence in peer review, dedication to evidence-based principles and methodology, and open access, as well as implementing other programs, to allow for a global reach.

In an effort to promote excellence in peer review, we have created the ‘Elite Reviewer’ role. An ‘Elite Reviewer’ is a content expert with high-level research and peer-review experience identified by the Editors. Each Elite Reviewer has agreed to review at least 20 manuscripts per year and return their review within 2 weeks of accepting an invitation. Elite Reviewers have been selected from across all continents to ensure manuscripts receive a global perspective.

In an attempt to improve transparency and objectivity, we have initiated a standard scoring system to evaluate all reviews of submitted manuscripts. Over time, scoring reviews will assist Associate Editors with finding reviewers that typically provide comprehensive and insightful comments. Where previous scoring was completed based on individual opinion, we hope more objective criteria will promote more consistent and accurate review practices.

Finally, we recently launched a global initiative for Excellence in Authorship with a goal to build capacity with researchers in low-to middle-income countries (LMICs) to promote diversity, inclusion, and global perspectives for papers submitted and published with the journal. This program will provide training and learning opportunities for researchers in LMICs in terms of writing high-level manuscripts, navigating the peer-review process, and ultimately, publishing their work. Successful applicants will be provided a waiver for a JISAKOS open access fee; participate in a research and publishing webinar with expert researchers and JISAKOS Editorial Board members; and have access to statistician, research manager, and surgeon-scientist advisor(s) to assist with the statistical analysis, logistical implications, and methodology of their project and final manuscript.

Of course, none of these initiatives would be possible without our JISAKOS team. Dr. Vikas Khanduja is the new Associate Editor in Chief. He brings a tremendous amount of knowledge, expertise and innovation to the journal, having served as a leader in several organizations including past President of the British Hip Society and President Elect of SICOT. Ms. Nicole Simunovic (new Managing Editor) has an extensive publication and administrative leadership record relating to clinical trials and health research methodology. The Editorial Board and Associate Editors consist of a group of leading, exceptional experts in their respective fields and editorial content. Their administration and input have been invaluable to the editorial process and our success as a stand-alone journal.

I look forward to what 2024 can bring as we get fully immersed in our roles. We will continue to seek impactful research that affects care across the globe.