Since 2015, Convin has partnered with the Greek Rheumatology Society to develop and manage the Mediterranean Journal of Rheumatology (MJR) – an international, peer-reviewed, platinum open-access online journal dedicated to advancing evidence-based research in rheumatic diseases.
Originally established as a printed, Greek-language publication, MJR underwent a strategic transformation to become a fully digital, English-language journal with a global readership. Convin was entrusted with this transition, drawing on its long-standing relationship with the Society and its expertise in digital scientific publishing. Today, MJR serves healthcare professionals worldwide, providing free and unrestricted access to high-quality clinical and translational research.
Challenges
The transition and long-term growth of the Mediterranean Journal of Rheumatology presented several significant challenges:
Cultural and language transition: Greek clinicians were accustomed to reading a printed journal in Greek. Moving to an English-language digital publication required a shift in mindset and practice.
Building credibility in a competitive publishing landscape: As with many new scientific journals, MJR initially faced the challenge of attracting high-quality submissions before achieving international indexing.
Breaking the indexing cycle: Authors were hesitant to submit without indexing, while indexing bodies require evidence of consistent, high-quality submissions.
Establishing financial sustainability: Ensuring the journal could operate without charging authors or readers while remaining economically viable.
Solutions
Convin applied a long-term, quality-driven strategy to overcome these challenges and position MJR as a respected international publication.
Strategic digital transformation: Convin led the transition from print to digital publishing, delivering an eco-friendly, globally accessible journal that removed geographic and logistical barriers for readers and contributors.
Editorial leadership and operational excellence: The journal is guided by a strong editorial structure, including:
- Editor in Chief: Prof. Dr. Theo Dimitroulas, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
- Associate Editor: Prof. Dr. Dimitrios Bogdanos, Centre for Research and Technology-Hellas (CE.R.T.H.)
- Editorial Manager: Eng. Alkis Polyrakis, Convin
- Editorial Coordinator: Ms. Vicky Denaxa, Convin
Convin’s editorial team ensured rigorous peer-review processes, professional production standards, and consistent publication schedules.
Quality-first publishing approach: To build credibility and trust, Convin focused on maintaining high editorial standards, reflected in a 65% rejection rate, reinforcing the journal’s scientific integrity and academic value.
Global positioning and indexing strategy: Through sustained quality, editorial consistency, and international outreach, MJR successfully achieved indexing in PubMed Central, Scopus, and Embase, significantly increasing its visibility and appeal to authors worldwide.
Platinum open-access model: MJR adopted a unique platinum open-access model, charging neither authors nor readers. This approach removed financial barriers, supported equitable access to knowledge, and differentiated the journal within the scientific publishing landscape.
Outcomes
Over a decade of sustained collaboration, the Mediterranean Journal of Rheumatology has delivered measurable scientific, financial, and global impact, establishing itself as a trusted and internationally recognised platform for rheumatology research.
Global reach and engagement: The Mediterranean Journal of Rheumatology has achieved substantial international reach and influence:
- Approximately 25,000 readers worldwide
- 66% of readership from outside Greece
- Top readership countries include Greece, USA, India, United Kingdom, and the Republic of China
Scientific recognition and growth:
- Achieved an Impact Factor of 1.4 in 2024
- Endorsed by 18 international scientific organisations and associations
- Indexed in PubMed Central, Scopus, and Embase
- Demonstrates continuous growth in citations, CiteScore, and readership
Financial sustainability: The journal generates annual revenue through sponsorships and conference proceedings, ensuring it is financially self-sufficient while maintaining its platinum open-access model.
Legacy and sustainability: The transition to a fully digital publication significantly reduced the environmental footprint associated with printing and physical distribution, aligning the journal with environmentally responsible publishing practices. More importantly, MJR has created a lasting legacy as an accessible, sustainable platform for sharing rheumatology research, supporting education, collaboration, and innovation across borders.
Through strategic leadership, editorial excellence, and a long-term commitment to quality, Convin has transformed the Mediterranean Journal of Rheumatology into a globally recognised scientific publication. What began as a national, print-based journal has evolved into an internationally indexed, financially sustainable, and environmentally responsible platform for rheumatology research. This ongoing collaboration demonstrates the critical role IAPCO members can play in advancing scientific communication beyond traditional event delivery.
