These articles provide new knowledge based on original research. Meta-analyses are also acceptable in this category. Studies should be hypothesis-driven.

Structure

Original research involves the following sections: Abstract, Introduction, Materials and Methods, Results, and Discussion. An Appendix is appropriate if additional material beyond what is allowable will be included.

• The Abstract is maximally 300 words and must be structured. Subsections: Background (why was the study done/why is it relevant?) Purpose, Methods, Results, and Conclusions sections
• In the Methods section:
• Explicitly state that the study received IRB approval or exemption and should describe the statistical methods.
• Sub-headings are encouraged (Study Participants, Image Acquisition, Statistical Methods, etc.)
• Reference the clinical trial number if one exists. Possible registries include ClinicalTrials.gov or WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP).
• The Discussion section must include commentary on the limitations of the research.

Summary Box

On a separate page entitled Summary Box, provide the following:

• A list of all abbreviations used in the manuscript
• Key Points: Up to three main results or conclusions, including summary data
• Summary Statement: 1-2 sentences that summarize the important findings of the manuscript.

Number of Authors

Maximally 7

Word Count

Total 3000 words (exclusive of Abstract)

Reference Limit

Maximum 35

Figure & Table Limit

Maximum 8 (Include tables, images, charts, or graphs)