What Are The Specific Differences In Formatting And Content Requirements For Submitting A Clinical Trial Manuscript Focused On The Efficacy Of A Novel Anticoagulant In Atrial Fibrillation Patients To The Journal Of The American College Of Cardiology Versus The European Heart Journal?

by ADMIN 285 views

When preparing a clinical trial manuscript on a novel anticoagulant in atrial fibrillation patients for submission to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) and the European Heart Journal (EHJ), consider the following key differences in formatting and content requirements:

Formatting Differences:

  1. Word Count:

    • JACC: Typically has a word limit of around 5,000 words for the main text, with structured abstracts (250 words) and 3-5 key points.
    • EHJ: May have similar or slightly different word limits, potentially more flexible, with a focus on concise writing.

  2. Abstract Structure:

    • JACC: Prefers a structured abstract with sections like Background, Methods, Results, Conclusions.
    • EHJ: May accept both structured and unstructured abstracts, depending on the specific submission guidelines.

  3. Sections Required:

    • JACC: Emphasizes clear sections with possible subsections, especially focusing on clinical implications.
    • EHJ: Standard sections with a focus on European guidelines and practices.

  4. References and Citations:

    • JACC: Limits references, possibly up to 30, using superscript citation format.
    • EHJ: May have a different reference limit and citation style, such as author-date or numbered.

  5. Figure and Table Requirements:

    • JACC: Specific guidelines on resolution, formatting, and limits on the number of figures/tables.
    • EHJ: Similar requirements but may vary in formatting details and submission process.

Content Requirements:

  1. Trial Registration:

    • Both require trial registration with a public database, but JACC might have stricter enforcement.

  2. Ethics and Patient Consent:

    • Both require ethical approval and consent, with specific reporting sections possibly differing.

  3. Data Sharing Statement:

    • JACC requires a data sharing statement; EHJ may have similar or additional policies.

  4. Author Contributions:

    • JACC uses the CRediT taxonomy; EHJ may have similar requirements but different presentation.

  5. Conflict of Interest Disclosures:

    • Both require COI disclosures, with JACC possibly having more detailed forms.

  6. Novelty and Impact Statement:

    • JACC may require a statement highlighting study significance, possibly in the cover letter.

  7. Reporting Guidelines:

    • Both require adherence to guidelines like CONSORT, with supplementary checklists.

  8. Target Audience and Guidelines:

    • JACC aligns with American College of Cardiology guidelines.
    • EHJ aligns with European Society of Cardiology guidelines.

Additional Considerations:

  • Submission Process: Differences in online submission systems affecting supplementary materials.
  • Unique Sections: JACC might emphasize clinical implications, while EHJ focuses on different aspects.
  • Formatting Details: Differences in margins, font, spacing, and headers/footers.
  • Keywords: Specific rules on number and formatting for searchability.
  • Supplementary Material: Policies on inclusion, presentation, and peer-review.

By addressing these points, you can tailor your manuscript to meet the specific requirements of each journal, increasing the likelihood of successful submission.