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Perusing the literature via citation links
1School of Information and Library Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109-1092.
Summary
Citation searching, an alternative to MEDLINE, effectively finds additional relevant research. This method retrieves valuable materials with minimal extra effort, proving useful across disciplines.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Information Science
Background:
- MEDLINE is a primary tool for clinical and research information retrieval.
- Complementary search strategies are essential for comprehensive literature reviews.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of citation searching as a complementary strategy to MEDLINE.
- To quantify the additional relevant materials identified through citation searching.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 89 literature searches incorporating citation searching.
- Assessment of additional relevant items retrieved per search.
Main Results:
- Citation searching yielded an average of 24% more relevant materials per topic.
- 85% of searches identified at least one additional relevant item.
- 42% of searches retrieved fewer than 7 additional items, with half deemed useful.
Conclusions:
- Citation searching is an effective complementary strategy to MEDLINE.
- This method is particularly beneficial for interdisciplinary research and rapidly evolving fields.
- The online citation index offers rapid retrieval crucial for time-sensitive specialties.