On-line indicators of Danish biomedical publication behaviour 1988-96: International visibility, impact and co-operation in a Scandinavian and world context

The development from 1988 to 1996 of research and publication patterns in Danish biomedical research is investigated in a Scandinavian and world context using on-line retrieval and the National Science Indicators. The aim is to demonstrate seven central publication indicators and determine changes in research behaviour and policy over time in a domain. Scandinavia's position is under pressure and weakening, in publication and citation impact levels. Only Finland demonstrates a steady increase in research activity. The Danish position is stable but the pattern of research publication is changing dramatically because of a continuous shift to publish in Science Citation Index journals and an intensive enhancement of international collaboration, in range of co-operating countries and in volume.