If you have an area of interest which cuts across multiple disciplines, or where the literature is dispersed across numerous journals, a subject alert may be a good choice. It is essentially a database search which is set up to run at predetermined intervals and send you the new results.

OVID Database alerts (Medline, Embase, Emcare or PsycINFO)

1. Start by accessing your preferred database through the CIAP Databases page. 

2. Once at the Ovid interface, set up an account. This allows you to save your search and set up your alert. This can be useful for other reasons too, for example when you want to return to a project at a later date without rewriting your search again, or to share searches between colleagues.     

                                                           

3. Create a search. Try to find a search broad enough to capture new material, but without too much redundant material.

eg ((reduc* or prevent* or avoid* or minimis*) adj2 fall*).ti. for articles about falls prevention.

Tip: While your search may include MeSH or other database terms, it must  include adequate keywords, as new material will most likely not have their terms added yet. 

4. Save your search. When saving, choose the Autoalert option. 

 OR

5. From the Actions dropdown to the right of your search history select Create Auto-Alert. ​

6. Select your options:

• In Scheduling Options choose how you want to receive your alert – weekly, monthly, etc.
• If you want your alert on Monday morning set it to run on Sunday. Ovid is on US time.
• Enter your preferred email at Delivery Options.
• Modify the format of the citations you receive using the Fields>>Custom fields option. Title, abstract, author and source gives you a nice concise record to view.
• In Report Type, option 2 ‘Email includes records, a Results Display Link, and a link to each record's Fulltext or Complete Reference Display’ will give you a link to full text of the article if available.
• Tick the Deduping Options box to avoid material repeating

COCHRANE DATABASE ALERTS

• Access Cochrane Library from the CIAP home page. Cochrane alerts can be created for systematic reviews, for new trials added to the Controlled Clinical Trials Register, or for Cochrane Clinical Answers.

• Create a personal account for Cochrane.

• Create a subject search as required and save the search. Click on  the e-mail alert button to be notified when new articles match your search.

If you require any assistance setting up a subject alert contact the library.