Reporting and publishing research in the biomedical sciences

Abstract

Biomedical communication is a skill which can be acquired and improved by training or reading books like the present one. The original publication was released during theFirst Conference of the World Association of Medical Editors in October 2015. This book has been substantially updated and revised compared to the previous edition. The editors with their vast experience in biomedical communications have brought together the expertise of 29 authors who have richly contributed to this book. The book has 26 chapters and deals with all aspects of biomedical communication. The first chapter describes the IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results and Discussion) structure. Subsequently, there are four separate chapters for each of these sections. The general guidelines and rules for writing each section are well described. Each section has box messages providing checklists, “Do's and Don’ts” and suggestions which help the reader to quickly grasp the intricacies of writing a research paper. Guidance for constructing tables, flowcharts and figures with suitable examples is a good feature of this book. The book also provides guidance for the selection of appropriate style of figures/line diagrams for different types of data including preparation of graphics containing molecular data in consonance with the increased number of publications in genomics. Selection of fonts for sequencing data is also discused. Chapter 6 is devoted to ‘Argument Matrix’, which will be helpful for a young author to write and organize his manuscript. Tables 1 and 2 in this chapter are lucid and make it easier to understand. The next three chapters provide guidance for writing abstract, title, keywords, cover letter and references. The description of an online tool ‘MeSH on Demand’ for the selection of keywords will be useful for the readers. The book also briefly describes bibliographic software and mentions the names of a few free software programmes. Considering the increased usage of manuscript management systems and electronic publications by all leading journals, one chapter is devoted to describing digital publishing business model, drafting an electronic manuscript, online submission of manuscripts, journal policies and services which will be appreciated by readers. Chapters 10, 11 and 12 provide information about copyright issues, writing letters, editorials, book reviews, case reports and series. The next two chapters provide guidance for writing a book or a chapter in a book and give useful suggestions for improving language and style of the manuscript. Authors of a research paper often face a dilemma in selecting the appropriate journal. This book describes a number of useful criteria which the author should keep in mind for selection of a suitable journal. Open access journals provide unrestricted access to scholarly papers. In chapter 19, open access journals’ policy, concept, hybrid open access journals and the need for open access repositories and data sharing are well described. To educate potential authors, chapter 21 explains about the flow of the manuscript inside the editorial office, peer-review process and tips for revision and resubmission of manuscripts. A few chapters are also devoted to explaining scientific fraud, scientific misconduct, conflicts of interest and redundant publication. The last two chapters provide valuable tips for improving podium and poster presentation in a scientific conference. To summarize, this book is well written and sequentially organized and arranged. This book will be useful for beginners as well as middle-level scientists in writing manuscripts and biomedical communications. It is recommended as a personal reference for all biomedical scientists and researchers. Besides, it should also find a place in the libraries of institutions involved in biomedical research.