Abstract
BackgroundPublication of scientific articles related to khat (Catha edulis) in peer-reviewed journals is considered a measure of research productivity. The principal objectives of this study were to quantify the research contribution related to khat at the global level, as well as to determine its relative growth rate, collaborative measures taken, productivity at the institutional level, and the most prolific journals publishing on the topic.MethodsOn the basis of title words related to khat, publications were identified for all data in Scopus bibliographic database’s history up to December 31, 2014. The research productivity for the top 10 countries was evaluated in relation to the population size and gross domestic product (GDP) in 2013.ResultsThe criteria were met by 651documents published in 51 countries. The largest number of articles associated with khat was from the UK (15.2 %), followed by Yemen (10.3 %), the USA (9.7 %) and Ethiopia (9.1 %). Ethiopia, Yemen, and Kenya had the highest productivity of publications after standardization by population size and GDP. Furthermore, Yemen achieved the highest number of collaborations, by having researchers from 19 countries. Ethiopia followed, having researchers from 16 countries.ConclusionsThis bibliometric study provides a demonstration for the worldwide research activity regarding khat. The number of articles related to khat has increased rapidly over the last 10 years. The present study is a good starting point to evaluate research activity in the field of khat. Although the data shows a promising increase in the research activity, the quantity of khat-related research is still too little compared to the massive use of khat in certain countries.
Highlights
Publication of scientific articles related to khat (Catha edulis) in peer-reviewed journals is considered a measure of research productivity
The quality of the journals was assessed by two indicators: the impact factor (IF) using the Journal Citation Report (JCR; Web of Knowledge) 2013 and the SCImago Journal Rank (SJR)
We identified 491 (75.4 %) articles of original research, 45 (6.9 %) letters to the editor, 39 (6.0 %) reviews, and 76 (11.7 %) articles that were categorized as other types of publications, such as notes or editorials
Summary
Publication of scientific articles related to khat (Catha edulis) in peer-reviewed journals is considered a measure of research productivity. The principal objectives of this study were to quantify the research contribution related to khat at the global level, as well as to determine its relative growth rate, collaborative measures taken, productivity at the institutional level, and the most prolific journals publishing on the topic. Khat (Catha edulis) is a stimulant plant grown commonly in Southern Arabia and East Africa. The leaves of the khat shrub are characterized by an aromatic odour, with an astringent and slightly sweet taste [1]. The leaves and buds of khat are chewed to reach a state of euphoria and excitement [2]. Chewing khat mainly affects the user’s gastro-intestinal system and the central nervous system (CNS).
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