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Truncation Marks
A truncation mark is a symbol that is added to the end or beginning of the root of a word so the database will search for all forms of that word. The asterisk (*) is used in many databases for truncation.
Example: psych* will find psychology, psychiatry, psychological.
Example: develop* will find develops, developing, or development.
What is a systematic Review?
Authors conducting a systematic review attempt to identify, appraise and synthesize all the empirical evidence that meets pre-specified eligibility criteria to answer a given research question.
Key characteristics of a systematic review are:
Source: Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions
The database you will use will depend on your topic. Read the database description for subjects covered.
The Cochrane Library is a unique source of reliable and up-to-date information on the effects of interventions in health care. Published on a quarterly basis, the Cochrane Library is designed to provide information and evidence to support decisions taken in health care and to inform those receiving care. Download the user guide.
Note: Steps to create a personal account when off campus:
1. Go directly to the Cochrane library website [bypassing your Tower ID authentication].
2. Use the "Sign in" link in the top right corner to either login to an existing account or create a new account.
a. New Accounts: Complete the registration process and SJSU email validation. Then login to your account
b. Existing customers: Log in using your Cochrane Library personal login and password.
3. When you successfully login, this information will appear in the top right corner as Signed in as "your name"
4. Once you complete this login, then return to The Cochrane Library using the link that requires your Tower ID authentication.
Scholarly literature search engine. Set your library preferences: On the Google Scholar homepage, go to Scholar Preferences. At Library Links, locate San Jose State University. Add those links, then save the preferences.