Indexed journal: What does it mean?

• DOI: 10.4103/0970-2113.95345
• Publication Date: 2012-04-24T05:09:51Z
• Authors: YatanPal Singh Ba...
• Keywords: Impact factor; Proxy (statistics); Medical journal

Sir, Indexation of a journal is considered reflection its quality. Indexed journals are to be higher scientific quality as compared non-indexed journals. medical has become debatable issue. For long-time Index Medicus been the most comprehensive index articles. It being publication since 1879. Over years, many other popular indexation services have developed. These include MedLine, PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, EBSCO Publishing's Electronic Databases, SCIRUS among others. There various regional and national versions such African Medicus. A related equally controversial issue that impact factor (IF).[1] IF used proxy for relative importance within field. awarded indexed in Thomson Reuters Journal Citation Reports. criticised manipulation incorrect application.[2] multiple factors could bias calculation IF.[3] coverage language preference database, procedures collect citations, algorithm calculate IF, citation distribution journals, online availability publications, negative publishers articles certain type, lag, citing behaviour across subjects, possibility exertion influence from editors.[4] Interestingly, not available all In fact, even Medicus/MedLine/PubMed Similarly, Reports consequently an listed Medicus/PubMed/MedLine. This brings us question which best valid? How compare published with different services? questions particular relevance two main reasons. First, publications increasingly recognised by academic institutions. MCI guidelines also recommend teaching faculty colleges. Consequently more authors would publishing than ever before.[4] Selection high becomes difficult decision there no clarity on Should one aim at only Medicus/MedLine/PubMed? Is it appropriate make submissions having although they Second, recently come up. Caspur, DOAJ, Expanded Academic ASAP, Genamics Seek, Hinari, Copernicus, Open J Gate, Primo Central, Pro Quest, SCOLOAR, SIIC databases, Summon Serial Solutions, Ulrich's International Periodical Directory. Are these indexations relevant? Would any databases "indexed"? some warrant discussion. Associations editors Committee Medical Editors play pivotal role