Elsevier just launched a new online research tool for scientists called SciTopics. The company says that its website will allow researchers to gain initial familiarity with new scientific topics and the latest research. SciTopics is composed of custom written pages by hundreds of scientists, and it also provides a way to locate news developments, journal articles, and other information relevant to one’s research studies. In addition to data mining, SciTopics features a networking system for individuals to find and interact with others in a related field.
From the press release:
Using keywords selected by the SciTopics page author, Elsevier provides links to the most recent and most cited published articles on the subject through Scopus (http://www.info.scopus.com), the world’s largest abstract and citation database of peer-reviewed literature. Keywords are also used to identify links to relevant Web results and news through Scirus (http://www.scirus.com), Elsevier’s science-specific search engine. These external links, updated each time the page is viewed, allow for more in-depth coverage of the subject reflecting the most current information. SciTopics page authors also offer a list of references and suggested Web resources.
“The speed of sharing information that has been made possible by the Internet has opened up a new fast-paced content channel, however, it has created a sense of data overload as well as significant concerns over quality and accuracy,” commented Dr. Garry Corthals, SciTopics Subject Editor, Biochemistry & Genetics. “SciTopics will leverage the instantaneous and interactive nature of the Web, while narrowing the scope of content and offering the peace of mind that comes with authoritative and moderated material.”
SciTopics pages include a link to the author’s profile page including affiliation, research interests, a list of publications and contact details. Authors are invited by a SciTopics Subject Editor or Elsevier Journal Editor to write a summary on a scientific topic of their choice. Additionally, those interested in creating a SciTopics page may submit a suggested topic via the site.
Press release: Elsevier Launches SciTopics, the Expert-Generated Information and Collaboration Web Resource
SciTopics homepage…
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