EMBASE

EMBASE: A Comprehensive Biomedical Database

EMBASE, also known as Excerpta Medica Database, is a highly regarded biomedical and pharmacological database of published literature. It is produced by Elsevier and is widely used by researchers, clinicians, and students in the medical and life sciences fields. EMBASE provides access to a vast collection of biomedical information, including journal articles, conference abstracts, and other scientific literature.

History and Development

EMBASE was first established in 1947 as Excerpta Medica, a series of abstract journals. Over the years, it evolved into a comprehensive electronic database. The transition to a digital format allowed for more efficient searching and retrieval of biomedical information. Today, EMBASE is recognized for its extensive coverage of international biomedical literature, particularly in the areas of drug research and pharmacology.

Coverage and Content

EMBASE covers a wide range of topics in the biomedical and life sciences fields. It includes over 32 million records from more than 8,500 journals, with a strong emphasis on drug and pharmaceutical research. The database is updated daily, ensuring that users have access to the most current information available.

Key Features

• Extensive Journal Coverage: EMBASE includes journals not only from the United States and Europe but also from Asia, Africa, and Latin America, providing a truly global perspective.
• Conference Abstracts: In addition to journal articles, EMBASE includes abstracts from major biomedical conferences, offering insights into the latest research developments.
• Drug and Pharmacology Focus: EMBASE is particularly noted for its comprehensive coverage of drug-related information, making it an essential resource for pharmacologists and healthcare professionals.

Search and Retrieval

EMBASE offers advanced search capabilities, allowing users to perform complex queries using a variety of search fields and filters. The database employs the Emtree thesaurus, a controlled vocabulary that enhances search precision by standardizing terms across different languages and disciplines.

Emtree Thesaurus

The Emtree thesaurus is a key feature of EMBASE, providing a structured vocabulary for indexing and searching biomedical literature. It includes over 70,000 preferred terms and 300,000 synonyms, facilitating accurate and comprehensive searches.

Comparison with PubMed

While both EMBASE and PubMed are essential resources for biomedical research, they have distinct differences:

• Coverage: EMBASE includes more European and international journals, while PubMed focuses more on American journals.
• Drug Information: EMBASE has a stronger emphasis on drug and pharmacological research.
• Conference Abstracts: EMBASE includes conference abstracts, which are not typically found in PubMed.

Access and Availability

EMBASE is a subscription-based database, accessible through institutional subscriptions at universities, hospitals, and research institutions. Individual access may also be available through personal subscriptions or library services.

Conclusion

EMBASE is an invaluable resource for medical students, researchers, and healthcare professionals seeking comprehensive and up-to-date biomedical information. Its extensive coverage, focus on drug research, and advanced search capabilities make it a critical tool in the field of medical research.

References

• Elsevier. "EMBASE." Accessed October 2023. [1]
• "EMBASE vs. PubMed: A Comparison." Journal of Medical Research, vol. 12, no. 3, 2022, pp. 45-56.