How does the online version affect the value of the Journal, as well as its usefulness as a research reference?
The value of the Journal, its overall substance, and the quality of articles it publishes has not changed. The process for accepting and publishing manuscripts has also not changed. In addition, all scientific journals (printed or online) need to be registered with the Library of Congress to be issued an ISSN. The ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) is an eight-digit number that identifies periodical publications, including electronic serials. The Journal will continue to be issued this number. References for the Journal should follow the standard of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
