Abstract:

Objective  To map and interpret the progressive knowledge domain visualization of global Toxoplasma gondii in recent years for macroscopic understanding the development and evolution features of this species. Methods  Co-citation analysis was performed using CiteSpace tool to map progressive knowledge domain through retrieving literatures from Web of Science, published from 1999 to 2012 using Toxoplasma gondii and toxoplasmosis as descriptors. Results  Eight major research fields, including genotyping, evasion strategy, field epidemiology, immunology as well as individual evolution, current research interests and 17 key pivot literature after 1980s were shown clearly in the visualization maps. Conclusion  Progressive knowledge domain visualization based on CiteSpace can present the structure and individual evolution feature of Toxoplasma gondii as well as its  emerging trends, which has great implications for researchers and decision-makers in planning earlier management strategies for this species in scientific and macroscopic manner.

Key words: Toxoplasma gondii, CiteSpace, Research focus, Visualization, Co-citation analysis