Guidelines - International Journal Of Medical Science Research And Innovations

1) Categories of Articles (Types)

A) Original Investigation

1) Original Investigation: –

Article Type	Description	Requirements
Original Investigation	Cost-effectiveness analysis Meta-analysis Cohort study Decision analysis Study of screening and diagnostic tests Clinical trial Epidemiologic assessment Intervention study Survey with high response rate Case-control study Other observational study	Word Count: Up to 3000 words Visuals: A maximum of 5 tables and/or figures Abstract: Must include a structured abstract Key Points: Required summary of essential findings Data Sharing Statement: Must be included Study Type: Clearly identify the type of study Follow EQUATOR Reporting Guidelines

2) Research Letter: –

Article Type	Description	Requirements
Research Letter	Brief, targeted reports presenting original research findings. May encompass any study design listed under Original Investigations.	Word Limit: Up to 600 words References: A maximum of 6 references Visuals: No more than 2 small tables and/or figures Study Type: Clearly indicate the study type Abstract and Key Points: Not required Data Sharing Statement: Must be included Follow EQUATOR Reporting Guidelines

B) Other Evidence Based Reports: –

1) Consensus Statement: –

Article Type

Description

Requirements

Consensus Statement

For this article type, a pre-submission inquiry is required.

These manuscripts provide an in-depth evaluation of a disease, condition, treatment, intervention, or health policy. They are often based on the findings of a consensus conference or expert panel, with the goal of offering recommendations or establishing policies to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Word Limit: Maximum of 3500 words
References: Between 50 and 75 references
Visuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figures
Subtitle: Must include the subtitle “A Consensus Statement”
Abstract: Requires a structured abstract
Pre-submission Inquiry: Required
Follow SQUIRE Reporting Guidelines

2) Study Types

1) Special Communication: –

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Special Communication	For this article type, a pre-submission inquiry is necessary. This journal publishes a limited number of such articles. These manuscripts address significant topics in clinical medicine, public health, health policy, or medical research. They are expected to be scholarly, comprehensive, well-referenced, and grounded in systematic and evidence-based analysis.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 words References: Maximum of 50 references Visuals: No more than 4 tables and/or figures Abstract: Must include a structured abstract Pre-submission Inquiry: Required

Trials

2) Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT)

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT)	A study that assigns participants in advance to either intervention or comparison groups, aiming to investigate the cause-and-effect relationship between an intervention and a health outcome. Interventions can range from medications, surgeries, and medical devices to behavioural therapies, educational initiatives, dietary changes, quality improvement efforts, and modifications to care processes, among others.	Limit: Up to 3000 words Visuals: Maximum of 5 tables and/or figures, including the CONSORT flow diagram References: Between 50 and 75 references Abstract: Requires a structured abstract Key Points: Must be included Subtitle: Should state “A Randomized Clinical Trial” Registration: Include trial registration and ID Protocol: Attach the trial protocol Data Sharing Statement: Required CONSORT Checklist Follow CONSORT Reporting Guidelines

3) Parallel- Design Double- Blind Trial

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Parallel- Design Double- Blind Trial	A randomized trial that assigns participants to two or more groups to receive different interventions. Both participants and those delivering the interventions are blinded to which intervention each participant is receiving.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 words Visuals: Include up to 5 tables and/or figures, along with the CONSORT flow diagram References: Between 50 and 75 references Abstract: Must include a structured abstract Key Points: Required Subtitle: “A Randomized Clinical Trial” Registration: Provide trial registration and ID Protocol: Include the trial protocol CONSORT Checklist Follow CONSORT Reporting Guidelines

4) Crossover Trial

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Crossover Trial	A trial where participants receive multiple treatments being studied, typically in a randomly assigned order. There is a predetermined period of time (washout period) between each treatment to ensure no carryover effects from the previous treatment.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 words Visuals: Include up to 5 tables and/or figures, along with the CONSORT flow diagram References: Between 50 and 75 references Abstract: Must include a structured abstract Key Points: Required Subtitle: “A Randomized Clinical Trial” Registration: Provide trial registration and ID Protocol: Include the trial protocol CONSORT Checklist Follow CONSORT Reporting Guidelines

5) Equivalence and Noninferiority Trial

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Equivalence and Noninferiority Trial	A trial aimed at determining if the new treatment or intervention is not less effective than an existing alternative, such as an active control. These trials require authors to define a noninferiority margin in advance, which should be aligned with relevant studies, to demonstrate that the new intervention performs at least as well as the active control within this specified margin.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Include up to 5 tables and/or figures, along with the CONSORT flow diagramReferences: Between 50 and 75 referencesAbstract: Must include a structured abstractKey Points: RequiredSubtitle: “A Randomized Clinical Trial”Registration: Provide trial registration and IDProtocol: Include the trial protocolCONSORT ChecklistFollow CONSORT Reporting Guidelines

6) Cluster Trial

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Cluster Trial	A trial where entire groups, rather than individual participants, are randomly assigned to either the intervention or control conditions.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Include up to 5 tables and/or figures, along with the CONSORT flow diagramReferences: Between 50 and 75 referencesAbstract: Must include a structured abstractKey Points: RequiredSubtitle: “A Randomized Clinical Trial”Registration: Provide trial registration and IDProtocol: Include the trial protocolConsort ChecklistFollow CONSORT Reporting Guidelines

7) Non-randomized Clinical Trial

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Non-randomized Clinical Trial	A trial that assigns groups or populations to assess the efficacy or effectiveness of an intervention, but where the assignment is based on self-selection or administrator choice rather than randomization. Control groups may be historical, concurrent, or a combination of both. This design is often referred to as a quasi-experimental design.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Include up to 5 tables and/or figures, along with the CONSORT flow diagramReferences: Between 50 and 75 referencesAbstract: Must include a structured abstractKey Points: RequiredSubtitle: “A Randomized Clinical Trial”Registration: Provide trial registration and IDProtocol: Include the trial protocolTREND Checklist

Clinical Trial

These articles encompass studies involving Randomized Clinical Trials, Double-blind Parallel-Design Trials, Crossover Trials, Equivalence and Noninferiority Trials, Cluster Trials, and Nonrandomized Clinical Trials.

A clinical trial, as defined by the ICMJE, is any research that prospectively assigns human participants to intervention or comparison groups to study the causal relationship between an intervention and a health outcome. Interventions can include, but are not limited to, medications, surgeries, devices, behavioural therapies, educational initiatives, dietary changes, quality improvement efforts, and process-of-care modifications. All manuscripts reporting clinical trials, including those that focus on secondary, exploratory, or post hoc analyses of trial outcomes, must include the following:

A copy of the original trial protocol, which should include the complete statistical analysis plan and any amendments. It is recommended to use the SPIRIT reporting guidelines when preparing original protocols (see Protocols).
A CONSORT flow diagram.
A completed trial checklist.
Registration in an appropriate public clinical trial registry (see Trial Registration requirements).
A Data Sharing Statement that clearly states whether the data will be shared or not. Specific data-sharing questions are addressed during manuscript submission.

For additional guidance on reporting clinical trials, whether they are Randomized, Parallel-Design Double-blind, Crossover, Equivalence and Noninferiority, Cluster, or Nonrandomized Clinical Trials, please refer to the Study Types section.

Each manuscript should clearly outline the study’s objective or hypothesis, the design and methodology (including the study setting and dates, participant selection criteria, or data sources), key features of the interventions, primary and secondary outcome measures (consistent with those stated in the trial protocol), the main findings, a discussion section that places the results in context with existing literature while acknowledging study limitations, and the final conclusions.

A structured abstract is required, with trial registration details (registry name, trial ID, and URL) provided at the end of the abstract. For more information, refer to the instructions for preparing Abstracts for Reports of Original Data. Additionally, a list of three Key Points is required (refer to the guidelines for preparing Key Points). The maximum word count is 3000 words (excluding the abstract, tables, figures, acknowledgments, references, and supplementary material). Manuscripts should include no more than five tables and/or figures and should contain 50 to 75 references. The subtitle should specify “A Randomized Clinical Trial” or, for Nonrandomized Clinical Trials, “A Nonrandomized Clinical Trial.”

Trial Registration

In alignment with the ICMJE, registration of all trials in a public trials registry is required as a condition for manuscript consideration. Acceptable registries must be publicly accessible, owned by a non-profit entity, and meet the minimum registration data requirements outlined by ICMJE. Examples of acceptable trial registries include:

anzctr.org.au
clinicaltrials.gov
isrctn.org
trialregister.nl
umin.ac.jp/ctr

All clinical trials, regardless of completion date, as well as secondary analyses of original clinical trials, must be registered prior to manuscript submission. Secondary analyses of primary trials should not be registered as separate trials but should reference the registration number of the original trial. Clinical trials that began enrolling participants after July 2005 must have been registered prior to the start of enrollment. Trials initiated before July 2005 but not registered by September 13, 2005, must be registered before submitting a manuscript. The trial registry name, registration ID, and URL should be included at the end of the abstract and on the online submission form.

Protocols

Manuscripts reporting clinical trials must be submitted along with the trial protocol, including the full statistical analysis plan and any subsequent amendments. Non-English protocols should be translated into English. This should include the original approved protocol, the statistical analysis plan, and any amendments to these documents. Please do not submit a summary version previously published in another journal. If the manuscript is accepted, the protocol and statistical analysis plan will be published as supplementary materials.

CONSORT Flow Diagram and Checklist

Manuscripts reporting randomized trial results must include a CONSORT flow diagram showing patient progression throughout the trial. Additionally, the CONSORT checklist should be completed and submitted alongside the manuscript.

8) Meta-analysis

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Meta-analyses	A systematic review that uses statistical methods to quantitatively aggregate results from multiple studies measuring the same outcome, providing a single combined or summary estimate.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Maximum of 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75 referencesAbstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredSubtitle: Should include “A Meta-analysis”Follow PRISMA Reporting Guidelines or MOOSE Reporting Guidelines

Meta-analysis

These articles involve systematic, critical evaluations of literature and data sources related to clinical topics, with a focus on aspects such as cause, diagnosis, prognosis, therapy, or prevention. Meta-analyses incorporate statistical methods to combine the results of multiple studies that examine the same outcome into a single pooled estimate. The search for relevant articles or data sources should be systematic, and the inclusion criteria should be clearly described in the manuscript. The specific type of study, population, intervention, exposure, tests, or outcomes should be noted for each included source. Data sources should be as recent as possible, with the search ideally conducted within several months of submission. Authors of meta-analyses of clinical trials should submit the PRISMA flow diagram and checklist, while meta-analyses of observational studies should be accompanied by the MOOSE checklist. Follow EQUATOR Reporting Guidelines.

A structured abstract is required, with specific instructions available under Abstracts for Meta-analysis. A list of three Key Points is also necessary. The maximum text length is 3000 words (excluding the abstract, tables, figures, acknowledgments, references, and supplementary material), with a limit of five tables and/or figures and 50 to 75 references. The subtitle should include the phrase “A Meta-analysis.” See the AMA Manual of Style.

9) Cohort Study

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Cohort Study	An observational study that tracks a group (cohort) of individuals who do not initially have the outcome of interest. The cohort may be defined by shared characteristics such as age, sex, diagnosis, exposure to a risk factor, or treatment.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow STROBE Reporting Guidelines

10) Case-Control Study

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Case-Control Study	An observational study aimed at identifying the relationship between an exposure and an outcome, where participants are selected based on their outcome status. Those who have the outcome (cases) are compared to those who do not have it (controls) regarding their exposure or event history. Cases and controls may be matched on specific characteristics such as age, sex, or disease duration.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow STROBE Reporting Guidelines

11) Cross-Sectional Study

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Cross-Sectional Study	An observational study conducted on a defined population at a single time point or during a specific period, where both exposure and outcome are assessed concurrently.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow STROBE Reporting Guidelines

12) Case-Series

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Case-Series	An observational study that details a group of participants who share a common exposure or treatment but does not include a control group. A case series may also observe larger entities like hospitals or municipalities, as well as smaller units such as laboratory samples.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow Reporting Guidelines

13) Economic Evaluation

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Economic Evaluation	A study that employs formal, quantitative techniques to compare two or more treatments, programs, or strategies in terms of their resource utilization and anticipated outcomes. This includes analyses such as cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit, and cost-minimization.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow CHEERS Reporting Guidelines

14) Genetic Association Study

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Genetic Association Study	A study aimed at identifying and describing genomic variants potentially linked to susceptibility to complex, multifactorial disease	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow STREGA Reporting

15) Diagnostic/ Prognostic Study

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Diagnostic/ Prognostic Study	A prospective study designed to develop, validate, or update the diagnostic or prognostic accuracy of a test or model.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow STRAD Reporting Guidelines or TRIPOD Reporting Guidelines

16) Qualitative Study

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Qualitative Study	A study that relies on observation and interviews, employing inductive reasoning and a theoretical sampling approach, to explore social phenomena and interpretations rather than quantifiable data. Its goal is to uncover, interpret, and describe these phenomena, rather than to test or evaluate them. This also encompasses mixed-methods studies that integrate both quantitative and qualitative approaches in either a sequential or concurrent manner.	Word Limit: Up to 3000 wordsVisuals: Up to 5 tables and/or figuresReferences: Between 50 and 75Abstract: Must be structuredKey Points: RequiredFollow SRQR Reporting Guidelines or COREQ Reporting Guidelines

17) Systematic Review (Without meta-analysis)

Study Type	Description	Requirements
Systematic Review (Without meta-analysis)	In-depth evaluations of literature and data sources related to health policy or specific diseases, conditions, treatments, interventions, or public health issues, with a focus on their implications for healthcare policy.	3000 words 50-75 references ≤5 tables and/or figures A PRISMA-style flow diagram should be included as an online supplement Include a table with ratings of the quality of the studies/evidence Subtitle should be “A Systematic Review” Structured abstract Key Points Ratings of the quality of the evidence Data Sharing Statement Follow relevant sections of PRISMA or MOOSE Guidelines

Systematic Review (without meta-analysis)

Systematic Reviews are comprehensive evaluations of the literature and data sources related to clinical issues, with an emphasis on elements such as Etiology, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, or prevention.

Systematic Reviews that do not incorporate meta-analyses are considered Original Investigations (refer to Meta-analysis). These reviews should address a clinically relevant question or issue, offering a balanced, evidence-based, and patient-oriented examination of a specific topic. Follow the appropriate sections of PRISMA or MOOSE Reporting Guidelines, avoiding those related to meta-analyses.

The standard structure of manuscripts for Systematic Reviews should include: Abstract (a structured summary of no more than 350 words); Introduction (150-250 words); Methods (150-250 words); Results (1000-1250 words); Discussion (1000 words); and Conclusions (2-3 sentences). The Results section should present ratings of the quality of the evidence. A list of 3 Key Points is required (see guidelines for preparing Key Points).

The total word count should not exceed 3000 words (excluding abstract, tables, figures, acknowledgments, references, and supplementary material), with a limit of 5 tables and/or figures and 50-75 references.

Other Observational Studies

This category encompasses manuscripts such as Cohort Studies, Case-Control Studies, Cross-sectional Studies, Case Series, Economic Evaluations, Decision Analytical Models, Comparative Effectiveness Research, Genetic Association Studies, Diagnostic and Prognostic Studies, Quality Improvement Studies, Surveys, and Qualitative Studies. Each manuscript should clearly present the study’s objective or hypothesis; detail the design and methodology (including study setting, time frame, participants or patients with their inclusion and exclusion criteria, participation or response rates, or data sources and selection methods); outline key aspects of any interventions or exposures; specify the main outcome measures; summarize key findings; discuss the results in relation to existing literature and address limitations; and offer conclusions with relevant implications for clinical practice or health policy. All data included in the manuscript must be original and as up to date as possible (see Timeliness of Data). Authors should follow the EQUATOR Reporting Guidelines.

A structured abstract is required; for detailed instructions, see the guidelines for preparing Abstracts for Original Data Reports. Additionally, a summary of 3 Key Points is required (see guidance for preparing Key Points). The manuscript should not exceed 3000 words (excluding abstract, tables, figures, acknowledgments, references, and supplementary material), with a limit of 5 tables and/or figures and 50-75 references.

Consensus Statement

These manuscripts provide a thorough analysis of a disease, condition, treatment, intervention, or health policy, typically based on the findings of a consensus conference or expert panel that aims to make recommendations or establish policies to enhance healthcare.

Manuscripts reporting Consensus Statements should adhere to the following structure: Abstract (a structured summary of up to 350 words); Introduction (150-250 words); Methods (including details on the consensus process and participants, 150-250 words); Results (1000-1250 words), which should also include assessments of evidence quality; Discussion (1000 words); and Conclusions (2-3 sentences).

3) Format my Manuscript (Manuscript Preparation And Submission Requirements)

Manuscript Submission Manuscripts must be submitted via the online submission and review system. At submission, provide complete contact information for the corresponding author, including their affiliation, postal address, email, and phone number. Also, include the names, email addresses, and institutional affiliations of all coauthors. After submission, the corresponding author will receive an acknowledgment and manuscript number. All authors will be sent a link to complete the Authorship Form after submission. Please see the instructions for additional details.

Copies of Previous Editorial and Reviewer Comments

If the manuscript has been previously submitted to another journal, include the prior editors’ and reviewers’ comments and the authors’ responses. This helps expedite the review process and does not influence the decision. Use the file type designated for Previous Peer Review and Editorial Comments in the submission system.

Cover Letter

Submit a cover letter with your manuscript, including full contact details for the corresponding author—affiliation, postal address, email, and phone number. Additionally, indicate whether the authors have published, posted, or submitted any related papers from the same study, including information on previous publications, related manuscripts, and preprints.

Manuscript Style
Prepare manuscripts according to the AMA Manual of Style, 11th edition, and/or the ICMJE Recommendations for Conduct, Reporting, Editing, and Publication of Scholarly Work in Medical Journals.

Manuscript Components
The manuscript file should include a title page, abstract, main text, references, and, if applicable, figure legends and tables. Each section should start on a new page and be numbered consecutively, starting with the title page. Figures must be submitted as separate files (one file per figure) and should not be embedded in the manuscript text.

Recommended File Sizes
Individual files should not exceed 500 kB and the total file size should not exceed 5 MB, excluding any video files.

Manuscript File Formats
Submit the manuscript as a Word document for review; PDFs are not accepted. Use a font- Times New Roman of size of 10, 11, or 12 points, double-space the text, and ensure the right margin is left unjustified (ragged).

Ratings of Evidence Quality
Tables summarizing evidence must include ratings for the quality of the evidence using the following scheme, adapted from the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine:

Quality Rating Scheme for Studies and Other Evidence

High Quality: Well-conducted randomized clinical trials; systematic reviews with meta-analyses.

Moderate Quality: Controlled trials without randomization; prospective comparative cohort studies.

Low Quality: Case-control studies; retrospective cohort studies.

Very Low Quality: Case series with or without interventions; cross-sectional studies.

Expert Opinion: Opinions from respected authorities; individual case reports.

For reviews that integrate results from multiple studies into a single recommendation, use this rating scale or refer to other systems such as the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine’s Levels of Evidence, the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines, or The Rational Clinical Examination Levels of Evidence for diagnostic studies. Ensure tables are prepared according to the detailed submission instructions.

Abbreviations
Avoid using abbreviations in the title or abstract and limit their usage throughout the manuscript. Expand all abbreviations upon their first occurrence in the text. For more guidance on abbreviations, refer to relevant style manuals.

Units of Measure
Express laboratory values in conventional units, with Système International (SI) conversion factors provided in parentheses only at the first mention. If there are multiple conversion factors, consider summarizing them in a paragraph at the end of the Methods section. In tables and figures, present SI conversion factors in the footnotes or legends. Use the metric system for length, area, mass, and volume. For additional details on units of measure, consult the appropriate style guide. For more details, see the Units of Measure Conversion table on the website for the AMA Manual Style

Names of Drugs, Devices, and Other Products
Use generic names for drugs, devices, and other products, unless the specific trade name is crucial for clarity. If a trade name is used, mention it once and then use the generic or descriptive name thereafter. Do not include trademark symbols. For guidance on drug names, refer to the relevant style resources. To read more about names of drugs, see the AMA Manual of Style.

Gene Names, Symbols, and Accession Numbers
When discussing genes or related structures, use the official names and symbols from sources like the US National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) or the HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee. For research involving large genomic datasets, ensure that the data is deposited in a publicly accessible database, such as NCBI’s GenBank. Include the accession number (and version number, if applicable) in the Methods section or Acknowledgment of your manuscript. Refer to the relevant style resources for more on gene nomenclature.

To read more about gene nomenclature, see the AMA Manual of Style.

Reproduced and Re-created Material
Ensure that all information and materials in your manuscript are original. The publication generally does not reprint text, tables, figures, or other content from other sources, except under specific circumstances. If it is necessary to include material from other publishers, provide details of all previously published content, including authors, article title, journal or book title, and full citation with DOI or URL. Obtain and submit permission from the publisher or third party for reproduction in all formats of the journal, including open access versions. If permission is not granted, remove the content and replace it with alternative material you have the right to use.

4) Structure of Article (In Sequence)

1)Title Page
The first page of your manuscript should be the title page, which must include: the manuscript title, the full names, highest academic degrees, and current affiliations of all authors (if an author’s affiliation has changed, include the new one), the name and full contact details for the corresponding author, and the manuscript’s word count (excluding title, abstract, acknowledgments, references, tables, and figure legends).

2)Title
Ensure your title is concise, specific, and informative. Titles should be limited to 100 characters (including spaces) for research reports and major articles, and 60 characters (including spaces) for shorter articles or subtitles. Avoid general titles, statements about study results, or questions. For clinical trials and meta-analyses, include the study type in the subtitle (e.g., A Randomized Clinical Trial, A Meta-analysis). For other types of research, do not mention the study type or design in the title or subtitle. Refer to the AMA Manual of Style for additional guidance on title formatting.

3)Key Points
Add a “Key Points” section before the Abstract in your manuscript. This section, required for research and review articles, should provide a succinct summary of the manuscript in 75-100 words, structured as follows:

Question: A focused question related to the study hypothesis or objective. Limit to one sentence.
Findings: Key results of the study or review, including the study design (e.g., clinical trial, cohort study, case-control study, meta-analysis). Highlight primary outcomes and findings without emphasizing secondary results. Report basic numbers and indicate statistical significance without detailed statistical data. Include one to two sentences.
Meaning: A brief conclusion and its implications based on the primary findings. Limit to one sentence.

Example for Research Article

Question: How effective is a new hypertension medication compared to an existing treatment?
Findings: In this randomized clinical trial involving 1,200 participants, 70% of those receiving the new medication achieved significant blood pressure reduction compared to 45% in the group receiving the existing treatment. The difference was statistically significant.
Meaning: The new hypertension medication shows greater effectiveness in reducing blood pressure compared to the existing treatment, suggesting it may be a preferred option for managing hypertension.

4) Structured Abstract

A) Abstract Guidelines for Reports of Original Data

Abstracts: Abstracts must be concise, not exceeding 350 words, and should be structured using the headings below. Use phrases when appropriate to keep it brief. Ensure that all information presented in the abstract is also included in the main text of the manuscript.

Importance:
- Begin with a sentence or two that highlights the significance of the study question. Explain why this research is clinically or otherwise important.
Objective:
- Clearly state the main objective or research question addressed in the study (e.g., “To determine whether…”). If there are multiple objectives, highlight the primary one and briefly mention key secondary objectives. Include any a priori hypotheses tested.
Design:
- Describe the study design, specifying the type of study (e.g., randomized clinical trial, cohort study, cross-sectional study, case-control study, case series, survey, meta-analysis, bibliometric analysis). Include the study years and follow-up duration. For studies completed more than three years ago, note the date of analysis. Mention the name of the study if relevant (e.g., the Framingham Heart Study). Indicate if blinding was used in subjective assessments, if applicable.
Setting:
- Detail the study setting to help readers gauge its relevance to other contexts (e.g., multicenter, population-based, primary care, referral centres).
Participants:
- Describe the clinical conditions, key eligibility criteria, and significant sociodemographic characteristics of participants. Provide the number of eligible participants and how they were selected, including those who refused or were excluded. Use terms such as random sample, population-based sample, referred sample, consecutive sample, volunteer sample, or convenience sample as applicable. If applicable, mention matching criteria for comparison groups and indicate the proportion of participants who completed the study in follow-up studies.

b) Abstract Guidelines for Reports of Original Data

Intervention(s) (for Clinical Trials) or Exposure(s) (for Observational Studies): Clearly describe the essential features of any interventions or exposures, including their methods and durations. Use the most common clinical names for interventions or exposures and use non-proprietary names for drugs.
Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s): Specify the primary outcomes measured, as originally planned before data collection began. If the manuscript does not include the main planned outcomes, state this and provide reasons. Clearly mention if the hypothesis was formulated during or after data collection. Provide explanations for any outcomes or measurements that may not be familiar to general medical readers.
Results: Start with a summary of demographic information, including participant characteristics such as age and sex, and the number of participants. Report the main study outcomes and quantify them, including the final number of participants analysed. Present numerical results with appropriate indicators of uncertainty, such as confidence intervals. Use absolute numbers and rates along with any ratios, avoiding redundant relative data (e.g., percentage increase or decrease). For normally distributed data, use means and standard deviations (SDs); for non-normally distributed data, use medians and ranges or interquartile ranges (IQRs). Avoid reporting only statistical hypothesis testing results, like P values, without providing the underlying data. Report P values alongside comparisons of absolute numbers or rates and measures of uncertainty (e.g., 0.7%, 93% CI −0.1% to 1.7%; P =.13). P values should not be presented alone. Measures of relative risk (e.g., relative risk, hazard ratios) should include confidence intervals. For screening and diagnostic studies, report sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios. If predictive values or accuracy are reported, include prevalence or pretest likelihood. All randomized trials should include intention-to-treat analysis results. For intervention studies, report the number of patients withdrawn due to adverse effects. Include the number needed to treat when applicable. Surveys should include response or participation rates.
Conclusions and Relevance: Present only those conclusions that are directly supported by the study results. Equally emphasize positive and negative findings of similar scientific merit. Provide a statement on the relevance of the findings, including implications for clinical practice or health policy, while avoiding speculation and overgeneralization. Indicate whether further research is needed before the findings can be applied in clinical settings.
Trial Registration: For clinical trials, include the name of the trial registry, the registration number, and the registry URL. Ensure this information is included in the abstract and manuscript submission form

c) Abstract Guidelines for Meta-analysis

Importance: Begin with a brief statement highlighting the significance of the systematic review question that justifies the need for the meta-analysis.
Objective: Clearly state the primary goal of the meta-analysis. Describe the specific factors being evaluated, such as causation, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, or prevention. Include information about the population, intervention, exposure, and outcome measures under review.
Data Sources: Summarize the data sources used, including the years covered by the search. The search should aim to be as current as possible, ideally conducted within a few months before manuscript submission. Sources may include databases, published indexes, registries, conference abstracts, and references from pertinent articles and books. Specify the databases used, including indexing terms and any constraints, such as language or study participants, if space permits. If details are too extensive, provide a summary of sources in the abstract and include a more detailed description in the Methods section.
Study Selection: Outline the criteria for including or excluding studies from the review. Detail the populations, interventions, outcomes, or methodologies considered. Describe the process used to apply these criteria, such as independent reviews by multiple assessors. Indicate the proportion of studies initially identified that met the selection criteria.
Data Extraction and Synthesis: Describe the guidelines followed for data extraction and quality assessment, such as PRISMA or MOOSE. Specify the method used for applying these guidelines, like independent data extraction by multiple reviewers. State whether data were pooled using a fixed-effect or random-effects model.
Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s): Indicate the primary outcomes and measurements as initially planned. If the manuscript does not include these main outcomes, mention this and explain why. Clearly state if the hypothesis was developed during or after data collection. Provide explanations for any specialized outcomes or measurements for a general audience.
Results: Report the number of studies and participants included in the meta-analysis. Present the main quantitative results, including absolute numbers and rates, with confidence intervals where possible. Avoid redundant reporting of relative data and provide means and standard deviations (SDs) for normally distributed data or medians and ranges for non-normally distributed data. Do not rely solely on Pvalues; they should bepresented alongside absolute numbers or rates and measures of uncertainty (e.g., 0.7%, 93% CI −0.1% to 1.7%; P = .14). Include odds ratios, effect sizes, and sensitivity analyses if applicable. For diagnostic and screening assessments, provide sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, and predictive values. For prognosis evaluations, summarize survival rates and related variables. Note significant sources of variation between studies, such as differences in treatment protocols, co-interventions, confounders, outcome measures, follow-up duration, and dropout rates.
Conclusions and Relevance: Clearly state the conclusions of the meta-analysis and their implications for practice or policy. Limit interpretations to the scope of the review, avoiding overgeneralization.

D) Abstract Guidelines for Systematic Reviews (Without Meta-analysis), Consensus Statements, and Special Communications

Importance: Provide 1 or 2 sentences outlining the clinical or public health significance of the issue or question addressed in the review.
Objective: Clearly state the main goal of the review. Describe whether the review focuses on aspects such as causation, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, or prevention. Include details about the specific population, intervention, exposure, and outcomes under consideration.
Evidence Review: Outline the sources of information used, including search strategies and time periods covered. Mention any additional sources, such as reference lists of selected articles. Explain the methods for including and assessing the quality of studies. For Consensus Statements, describe the process used to reach consensus and formulate recommendations.
Findings: Provide a concise summary of the number of studies included types of studies (e.g., randomized trials, cohort studies), and total number of participants. Summarize the key findings in an objective, evidence-based manner, highlighting the highest-quality evidence. Quantitative results should be included where applicable. For Consensus Statements, present the evidence-based recommendations derived from the review.
Conclusions and Relevance: Clearly state the conclusions based on the findings and indicate their implications for clinical practice or policy. Ensure that the conclusions are directly supported by the results summarized in the Findings section and avoid extrapolating beyond what the evidence supports.

E) Alternate Abstract for Special Communication (350 words).

Importance: Provide a brief overview of the topic, highlighting its significance and the primary purpose of the review.
Observations: Summarize the key findings and principal observations from the review.
Conclusions and Relevance: Present the conclusions drawn from the review and discuss their implications for clinical practice or health policy. Ensure that the conclusions are directly supported by the observations detailed in the abstract.

F) Non-Structured Abstract For all study types (350 words).

4) Introduction Section Guidelines

Background:
1. Provide a brief overview of the current knowledge and context of the research topic.
2. Summarize relevant previous research and highlight the importance of the subject.
3. Include key studies and data that set the stage for your research.
Knowledge Gaps:
1. Identify specific gaps, limitations, or areas lacking sufficient evidence in the existing literature.
2. Clearly articulate what is missing or unresolved that your study aims to address.
Rationale:
1. Explain why this study is necessary.
2. Describe how the research will advance understanding, impact clinical practice, or address important public health issues.
Objective/Hypothesis:
1. State the primary objective or hypothesis of the study succinctly.
2. Clearly articulate what the research intends to achieve or test.

Additional Guidelines

Clarity: Ensure the Introduction is clear and concise, providing a logical flow from background to objective.
Relevance: Focus on the aspects most relevant to the research question and the study’s contribution.
References: If references are included, they should be cited appropriately according to the journal’s style, though they are typically minimal in the abstract.

5) Methods Section Guidelines

Study Design:
1. Specify the type of study design used (e.g., randomized controlled trial, cohort study, case-control study).
2. Mention any specific design features, such as blinding or randomization procedures.
Setting:
1. Briefly describe the setting where the study was conducted (e.g., hospital, community, laboratory).
2. Include relevant details about the location and any unique characteristics of the setting.
Participants:
1. State the criteria for participant inclusion and exclusion.
2. Provide details on the number of participants, their characteristics, and how they were selected.
Interventions/Exposure:
1. Describe the main interventions or exposures being studied.
2. Include details about the nature, dosage, frequency, and duration of interventions if applicable.
Outcome Measures:
1. List the primary and secondary outcome measures used in the study.
2. Explain how these outcomes were assessed and any relevant tools or instruments used.
Statistical Analysis:
1. Provide a brief overview of the statistical methods used for data analysis.
2. Mention any specific techniques for handling data, such as adjustments or controls.

Additional Guidelines

Detail: Ensure that the methods are described with enough detail to allow replication of the study.
Clarity: Use clear and precise language to explain study procedures and analysis.
Relevance: Focus on the aspects of the methods that are crucial for understanding the study’s approach and findings.
Reporting Guidelines: Follow relevant reporting guidelines (e.g., CONSORT for randomized trials, STROBE for observational studies) when applicable.

6) Results Section Guidelines

Main Findings:
1. Summarize the primary results of the study, focusing on the main outcomes and key findings.
2. Report the main results with specific data, including measures of effect and statistical significance.
Secondary Outcomes:
1. Briefly mention any secondary outcomes or additional findings.
2. Include relevant data if it significantly contributes to understanding the results.
Tables and Figures (if applicable):
1. Reference any tables or figures that illustrate key results.
2. Provide a brief summary of what these tables or figures show, without duplicating detailed data.
Statistical Significance:
1. Indicate the statistical significance of the findings, including p-values, confidence intervals, or effect sizes as appropriate.
2. Clearly state whether the results are statistically significant.
Adverse Events or Side Effects (if applicable):
1. Report any adverse events or side effects observed during the study.
2. Provide relevant details and context if they impact the study’s findings.

Additional Guidelines

Clarity: Ensure that the results are presented clearly and concisely, focusing on the most important findings.
Accuracy: Provide accurate data and avoid over-interpreting results.
Relevance: Highlight results that are directly relevant to the study’s objectives and research questions.
Data Presentation: Include actual numbers and measures of variability (e.g., means, standard deviations) to support the reported results.
Consistency: Ensure consistency between the results described in the text and those presented in tables and figures.

7) Discussion Section Guidelines

Interpretation of Findings:
1. Discuss the significance of the main findings in the context of the study’s objectives and hypotheses.
2. Explain how the results contribute to the current understanding of the topic.
Comparison with Previous Research:
1. Compare and contrast your findings with those of previous studies.
2. Highlight any agreements, contradictions, or new insights provided by your study.
Clinical or Practical Implications:
1. Describe the potential implications of your findings for clinical practice or health policy.
2. Discuss how the results might influence current practices or guidelines.
Limitations:
1. Acknowledge the limitations of your study, including potential biases, methodological constraints, and generalizability issues.
2. Provide a balanced view of how these limitations might impact the interpretation of the results.
Future Research Directions:
1. Suggest areas for future research based on your findings.
2. Identify gaps that need to be addressed and propose potential studies or methodologies to explore these gaps.
Conclusion (30-50 words):
1. Summarize the main conclusions of the study.
2. Reinforce the key findings and their relevance to the field.

Additional Guidelines

Clarity: Ensure that the discussion is clear and logically structured, with each section addressing the relevant aspects of the findings.
Balance: Provide a balanced view by acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses of the study.
Context: Place your findings within the broader context of existing research and clinical practice.
Relevance: Focus on the most pertinent aspects of your findings and their implications for the field.

8) Conclusion Section Guidelines

Summary of Main Findings:
1. Provide a concise summary of the primary findings of the study.
2. Focus on the key results and their implications.
Implications:
1. Highlight the significance of the findings for clinical practice, policy, or further research.
2. Emphasize the practical or theoretical impact of the results.
Relevance to Clinical Practice or Policy:
1. Briefly state how the results may influence clinical practices or health policies.
2. Address any potential changes or recommendations based on the study’s outcomes.
Final Thoughts:
1. Offer a concluding remark that reinforces the importance of the study’s contributions.
2. Avoid introducing new information or details not covered in the main text.

Additional Guidelines
Brevity: Ensure the conclusion is succinct and directly related to the study’s main findings and implications.
Focus: Concentrate on the most impactful aspects of the study without rehashing detailed data or lengthy explanations.
Consistency: Ensure that the conclusions are consistent with the results and discussion sections of the manuscript.
Clarity: Use clear and direct language to communicate the main takeaways of the study.

9) References

Referencing Guidelines for IJMSRI

Authors are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of their references and their correct citation in the manuscript. References should be formatted according to either AMA or APA style, as per the author’s preference. Authors must ensure that references are numbered in order of appearance for AMA, or listed alphabetically by author’s surname for APA.

American Medical Association (AMA) Style Guidelines

General Rules:

References should be numbered in the order they appear in the text.
Use superscript Arabic numerals in the text, tables, and figure legends to denote references.
Abbreviate journal names as listed in PubMed.
Include all authors’ names up to six. If more than six, cite the first three authors followed by “et al.”
For journal articles, include the issue number in parentheses immediately after the volume number.
Always include a DOI when available.

Examples:

Journal Article:
1. Smith J, Brown A, Johnson K, et al. Efficacy of new medication in treating hypertension. J Hypertens. 2023;41(3):245-253. doi:10.1097/HJH.0000000000002980.
Book Chapter:
2. Harris M. Management of Hypertension. In: Wilson W, ed. Cardiology Today. 5th ed. Elsevier; 2022:55-67.
Website:
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diabetes Data and Statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics. Accessed August 15, 2024.

American Psychological Association (APA) Style Guidelines

General Rules:

References should be listed alphabetically by the last name of the first author.
Use in-text citations with the author’s last name and publication year (e.g., Smith, 2023).
For sources with more than 20 authors, list the first 19 followed by an ellipsis and then the final author’s name.
Include the issue number in parentheses immediately after the volume number for journal articles.
Always include a DOI or URL when available.

Examples:

Journal Article:
Smith, J., Brown, A., & Johnson, K. (2023). Efficacy of new medication in treating hypertension. Journal of Hypertension, 41(3), 245-253. https://doi.org/10.1097/HJH.0000000000002980
Book Chapter:
Harris, M. (2022). Management of hypertension. In W. Wilson (Ed.), Cardiology today (5th ed., pp. 55-67). Elsevier.
Website:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, August 15). Diabetes data and statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics

Ensure that references are complete and properly formatted before submitting your manuscript. Manuscripts with incorrect citation styles may be returned for revision.

Total Word Limit- Up to 3000 words- Excluding Abstract, Key Points, Title, Author & References.

5) Tables And Figures

Tables and Figures

Limit tables and figures to those essential for illustrating and supporting your article’s main argument and reporting all outcomes detailed in the Methods section. Each table and figure should be numbered sequentially and include a descriptive title. Ensure that every table and figure is cited within the text. Confirm that data are consistently presented across the text, tables, figures, and any supplementary materials.

For frequency data, use the format “No. (%)” rather than percentages alone, except for sample sizes over approximately 10,000. When reporting proportions and percentages, include both the numerator and denominator, especially if the sample size is less than 100. Avoid using decimal points (e.g., 25%, not 25.00%) for smaller sample sizes. If tables present results from multivariable regression models, focus on the primary findings. Both unadjusted and adjusted results for key exposures or comparisons should be provided, with detailed results in supplementary tables if necessary.

Ensure that tables have at least two columns, and comparisons should be made across the columns. Avoid duplicating data between figures and tables. Primary outcomes identified in the Methods section should be represented with exact values and measures of uncertainty in the text or tables and in the Abstract, rather than only graphically.

Avoid using pie charts and 3-D graphs; instead, use alternative graph types. For bar graphs, present frequency data (numbers and rates) and avoid stacked bar charts; consider using tables or side-by-side bars for comparing distributions of ordinal data.

Summary data such as means or odds ratios should use data markers for point estimates with error bars indicating measures of uncertainty (e.g., SDs, 95% CIs). Plot actual values of relative data on a log scale if necessary.

For survival plots, display the number at risk for each group at intervals along the x-axis. Ensure that colours in figures are distinguishable and define all symbols, line styles, and colors in a key or figure legend. Axes in graphs must have labels, and units of measure should be provided for continuous data.

Tables

Number tables sequentially according to their order of citation within the text.
Provide each table with a concise title that clearly describes its content, ideally no longer than 10 to 15 words.
Place all tables at the end of the manuscript file.
Adhere to the guidelines for the number of tables as specified under Study Types.
Avoid embedding tables as images in the manuscript or uploading them in image formats. Do not submit tables as separate files.

Table Creation

Construct tables using the table features available in your text editing software. Create tables by using the “Insert Table” option or by copying them from documents created in other programs like Word, Excel, or statistical software.

Avoid using tabs, spaces, or hard returns for table formatting, as this can lead to errors and delays in processing.

Tables should be single-spaced and formatted in 10- or 12-point font. Do not adjust the font size to fit the table on the page. Refrain from drawing additional lines or rules; the table grid will automatically outline each cell.

Ensure that all data are clearly represented within individual cells to prevent ambiguity. Use standard abbreviations such as “NA” to indicate “not applicable” or “not available” for missing data. Avoid using hard returns or tabs for cell alignment; this will be managed during the production phase. To create an indent, use 2 spaces.

When presenting percentages, provide both the numerator and denominator.

Include measures of statistical variability when relevant, such as mean (SD) or median (IQR). For detailed guidelines on presenting data, refer to the section on Statistical Methods and Data Presentation.

Each data set should occupy a separate row, and percentages along with variability measures should be presented in the same cell. For example, a table might include “No. (%)” with variability measures formatted similarly to:

Table 1. Baseline Values in the Editors’ Health Study

Laboratory values should be reported in conventional units. In tables, include a footnote indicating the conversion factor to SI units. For assistance with SI and conventional unit conversions, refer to the AMA Manual of Style. When data extend across multiple rows, merge cells vertically to maintain clarity. For instance, if presenting P values for overall age comparisons in the final column of a table, ensure that the cells are merged appropriately.

Table Footnotes

Footnotes in tables can pertain to the entire table, specific sections (e.g., a column), or individual entries.

The sequence of footnotes should match the order of the items they reference in the table.

If both a footnote letter and a reference number are associated with data in a table, place the superscript reference number first, followed by a comma and the superscript letter.

Use superscript letters (a, b, c) for each footnote and ensure that every letter corresponds to a footnote in the table.

Include definitions for abbreviations used in the table in the footnote section and clarify any empty cells.

If applicable, provide a footnote to explain any discrepancies in summing to group totals or percentages that do not total 100%.

For comprehensive guidance on table components and structure, refer to AMA Manual of Style.

Figures

Assign sequential numbers to all figures, including graphs, charts, photographs, and illustrations, based on their order of appearance in the manuscript. Limit the number of figures to avoid excess; use complex or multipart figures only when necessary and well-justified. Refer to specific guidelines for the allowable number of figures based on the study type.

For the initial manuscript submission, figures should be of high quality and can be included at the end of the manuscript for editorial review and peer evaluation. If revisions are required or before the manuscript is accepted, authors must provide figures that meet the required standards detailed in the Figure File Requirements for Publication.

Accepted manuscripts will have their figures, including titles, legends, and keys, re-formatted and edited according to the publication’s style and standards. Note that supplemental figures will not be edited or reformatted.

Image Integrity

To maintain the integrity of scientific images (such as clinical images, radiographic images, micrographs, gels, etc.), any digital modifications must be applied uniformly across the entire image without selectively altering or misrepresenting specific elements. Adjustments to brightness, contrast, or colour are acceptable if they are applied evenly and do not distort, obscure, or eliminate parts of the original image, including the background. Selective editing, such as highlighting specific elements, moving parts of the image, or inserting elements from other images, is not allowed. Cropping is permissible for clarity or to deidentify subjects, provided it does not misrepresent the image or omit critical information. If combining elements from different parts of an image or from various images, clearly delineate these with lines, borders, or labels.

Images created by artificial intelligence, machine learning tools, or similar technologies are generally discouraged unless they are part of the formal research design or methodology. If used, these images must be accompanied by a detailed description of the content, including the model or tool name, version, and manufacturer. Authors are responsible for the accuracy and integrity of AI-generated content.

If the journal detects inappropriate images or improper adjustments, authors will be required to provide an explanation and resubmit the original, unaltered images. Authors may need to revise and resubmit images to meet the outlined standards.

Acceptable Figure Files for Initial Submission and Review

Figures for the main article should be submitted as separate files or appended to the end of the manuscript, accompanied by titles and legends. Supplemental figures must be included in the PDF of the supplement. If revisions are required, figures should be uploaded separately and in accordance with the specific file format and resolution guidelines provided.

Figure File Requirements for Publication

Each figure for the main article must be submitted as an individual file, while supplemental figures should be integrated into the PDF of the supplement. Vector formats are preferred for accurately plotting and preserving data points. Files from statistical software should be exported to digital vector formats, as native formats may not be compatible with the publication’s requirements.

Digitally created images must meet resolution standards at the time of creation. Increasing resolution post-creation can degrade image quality. Composite images should have each component meeting the resolution criteria and be submitted separately.

Colour photographs should be in RGB mode using profiles like Adobe RGB or sRGB, as digital cameras capture images in RGB. Do not alter colour settings after image capture. Black-and-white images, such as radiographs or CT scans, can be submitted in either RGB or grayscale modes.

Figure Titles and Legends (Captions)

Include a brief, descriptive title for each figure at the end of the manuscript, ideally no longer than 10 to 15 words. Each figure should also have a caption (legend) that provides a concise explanation of the figure, and any symbols or markers used. For photomicrographs, the legend should detail the specimen type, original magnification or scale bar, and staining method. For images of gross pathology, include the measurement units for any rulers used. Clearly indicate in the caption if any images have been digitally enhanced or manipulated, such as computed tomography scans, magnetic resonance images, photographs, or x-rays.

Figures With Labels, Arrows, or Other Markers

Figures that include labels, arrows, or markers—such as photographs, clinical images, photomicrographs, and gel electrophoresis—must be submitted in two versions: one with the markers and one without. Explain all labels, arrows, or markers in the figure legend. The manuscript submission system allows for uploading both versions under the File Description tab.

General Figure Guidelines

Figures alone should not present primary outcome data; provide exact values with measures of variability in the text or tables and include these in the abstract.
Define all symbols, indicators (including error bars), line styles, colours, and abbreviations in the figure legend.
Label each axis of statistical graphs and include units of measurement.
Avoid using pie charts, 3-D graphs, or stacked bar charts, as they are unsuitable for accurate statistical representation. Convert these to appropriate figure types or tables.
Ensure error bars are shown in both directions unless only one-sided variability is reported.
Plot ratio data—such as odds ratios, relative risks, and hazard ratios—on a logarithmic scale, but do not transform the values logarithmically.
Use letters (a, b, c, etc.) for footnotes, not symbols.
Limit figures to a maximum of four panels unless a strong justification is provided.
Consult the AMA Manual of Style for additional guidance on figure types and elements.

For images featuring patients or identifiable individuals, avoid using black bars across eyes for deidentification. Cropping is acceptable if the image clearly shows the condition being discussed and necessary anatomical landmarks. Obtain consent for publication if there is any possibility of identification by the individual or others.

Table And Figure Requirements

6) Supplements and Multimedia

Authors may submit supplementary materials to accompany their manuscript when additional information is needed that cannot be accommodated in the main text. These materials should be integral to the understanding and interpretation of the report but must not duplicate content already presented in the main manuscript. The volume of supplementary material should be limited and justified. All supplementary content must be original and unpublished.

Supplementary materials will be reviewed alongside the main manuscript. If the manuscript is accepted, the supplementary content deemed suitable by the editors will be made available online at the time of publication. The authors are responsible for the accuracy and presentation of this material, as it will not be edited or reformatted.

Submission Guidelines for Supplementary Material:

Document Format: Submit all supplementary materials as a single Word document with consecutive page numbering. Each element (e.g., tables, figures) should be cited in the main manuscript text (e.g., eTable 1, eFigure 2) and ordered accordingly. The first page of the document should list all elements with their numbers and titles.

Supplemental Text:

Font and Formatting: Use Times New Roman, 10-point font, single-spaced. Main headings should be 12-point, bold; subheadings should be 10-point, bold.

Supplemental References:

Formatting: Include all references cited within the supplementary material in a separate reference section. Format these references consistently with those in the main manuscript and number them consecutively.

Supplemental Tables:

Formatting: Insert tables into the document and number them consecutively (e.g., eTable 1). Tables should be cited in the main manuscript text. Use Arial, 10-point font for text and data, 12-point, bold for titles, and 8-point for footnotes. Repeat column headers on subsequent pages if necessary and use landscape orientation for wide tables.
Excel Files: If data is best presented in Excel, submit a single Excel file with multiple tabs, each labelled as eTable 1, eTable 2, etc. The first tab should contain a table of contents. Large data sets should be deposited in public repositories, and links provided in the manuscript.

Supplemental Figures:

Formatting: Insert figures into the document and number them consecutively (e.g., eFigure 1). Figures should be cited in the main text. Titles should be Arial, 12-point, bold; figure text should be Arial, 10-point; legends should be 8-point. Use vector file formats (e.g., .wmf) for graphs and diagrams. Photographs should be in .jpg or .tif formats at 300 dpi and 3-5 inches wide. Ensure the “Link to File” option is off for images. Use landscape orientation for wide figures.

Video:

Specifications: Submit videos in .mov, .wmv, .mpg, .mpeg, .mp4, or .avi formats, with a maximum file size of 25 MB. Preferred dimensions are 1920×1080 (HD) or greater, but minimum dimensions should be 640×360. Maintain a frame rate of 24 fps (or 23.976 fps), 25 fps, or 30 fps (or 29.97 fps). The aspect ratio should be 4:3 (standard) or 16:9 (widescreen). Use a bit rate of 10,000 kbit/s – 20,000 kbit/s for compression. Record in landscape orientation. Verify video playback in QuickTime or Windows Media Player.
Citation and Caption: Include an in-text citation for each video (e.g., Video 1). Provide a title and caption (including file format and a brief description) at the end of the manuscript and in the submission system. If multiple videos are submitted, number them sequentially.
Patient Consent: If identifiable patients appear, submit a completed Patient Permission form. Obtain permission for unrestricted use in all versions of the journal.
Final Preparation: If accepted, videos will be formatted according to journal style. The production staff may request resubmission of videos to meet specific requirements, such as removing embedded text for re-creation in the journal’s style.

Audio:

Citation and Caption: Include an in-text citation for each audio file. Provide a title and caption (including file format and description) at the end of the manuscript. If accepted, you may be asked to provide an uncompressed audio file in .wav or .aiff format.

Specifications: Submit audio files in .mp3, .wav, or .aiff formats, with a maximum size of 25 MB. Use a bit rate of 256 kbps or higher for stereo and 128 kbps or higher for mono. The maximum length should be 5 minutes, with a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, and a bit rate of 16 or 24 bit. Ensure audio levels do not exceed 0 dBFS.

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