For Authors

Submission

To submit your article to our journal, you are required to use our journal management system. You will be requested to copy-paste the relevant sections from your manuscript text at relevant locations systematically to ensure that the submission is complete.

You can access the system through our website, where the corresponding author can log in and submit the manuscript. If this is your first time submitting to our journal, you will need to create an account before you can proceed with the submission.

Accepted articles types:

 

1. Case Reports

Case reports are detailed accounts of a single patient's medical history, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. They should include a detailed description of the patient's medical history, including any relevant past medical conditions or treatments, as well as a description of the patient's current symptoms and clinical presentation. Diagnostic tests and imaging studies should also be included, along with any relevant laboratory results.

Case reports should follow the CARE guidelines to ensure that they are reported in a clear, transparent, and standardized way. Adhering to the CARE guidelines consisting of a 13-item checklist can help authors ensure that their case reports provide sufficient detail and clarity to allow readers to understand the case and its relevance to clinical practice. 

 

Word count: 3000

Authorship: 5 authors

Figures/Tables: maximum 5 

References: 20

ELEMENTS to be included: 

 

2. Case Series

Case series involves the systematic collection and analysis of data on a group of patients who share a common diagnosis or set of clinical characteristics. Case series typically include a detailed description of the clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients, the diagnostic criteria used, and the treatments or interventions that were administered.

Case series should follow these guidelines. Case series in surgery should follow the PROCESS guidelines

Word count: 4000

Authorship: 10 authors

Figures/Tables: maximum 5

References: 50

ELEMENTS to be included: 

 

3) Global health case reports

Global health case reports describe medical cases or health interventions that are relevant to global health issues, regardless of national boundaries. 

Global health case reports can cover a wide range of topics, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, mental health, and health system strengthening. These case reports can provide valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by populations in different parts of the world and the strategies used to address these challenges.

Word count: 4000

Authorship: 5 authors

Figures/Tables: maximum 5 

 

4) Clinical Images

Clinical images should include a high-quality image that illustrate the key features of the case. The image should be accompanied by a brief description of the patient's history, examination findings, diagnostic workup, and treatment. 

The accompanying text for a clinical image should be concise, with a recommended length of no more than 500 words, and include no more than six references. The text should be focused on the image and its relevance to clinical practice, and should provide clear and practical insights to the clinical question. 

There shouldn't be any standard manuscript elements like an introduction, methodology, results, or discussion.  Instead, extensive legends with no length restrictions should be used. 

Authors can review technical guidelines on figures below.

When uploading an image, be sure to include one version with labels and arrows pointing to the important structures and an additional picture without any labels or arrows. 

Any images that might reveal a patient's identity should be de-identified, that is the images should be blurred, blocked out, or otherwise edited out of the image to protect patient confidentiality and privacy.  

Submitted images will be peer-reviewed under the same process as a regular research article.

How to submit?

To submit a manuscript for "Clinical Images", you first need to register and/or log in. Once logged in, select "Submit a New Manuscript," and then choose "Clinical Images" as the article type. Follow the instructions that appear on each subsequent screen, ensuring that you provide all the necessary information and files. Make sure to carefully review your submission before finalizing it, to ensure that it meets the journal's guidelines and standards.

 

5) Clinical Videos

Videos provide a visual aid for medical professionals and students to better understand the case or procedure being demonstrated. The videos may include narration, labeling, and annotation of essential structures to enhance the viewer's understanding. 

Videos should not include any identifiable features of living patients or their personal details.

How to submit?

To submit a manuscript for "Clinical Videos", you first need to register and/or log in. Once logged in, select "Submit a New Manuscript," and then choose "Clinical Videos" as the article type. Follow the instructions that appear on each subsequent screen, and insert the URL (Youtube/Vimeo) of the video into the designated field. 

 

6) Original Research

The journal accepts research articles that present original primary research on case reports. 

  1. N of 1 trials: These are single-subject experimental designs that can be used to investigate the effectiveness of interventions in individual patients. N of 1 trials can be used to study case reports by providing empirical evidence for the effectiveness of treatments described in case reports.
  2. Retrospective studies: These studies involve the collection and analysis of data from patient records. Retrospective studies that include case-specific information (age, sex, and ethnicity) for all patients can be used to investigate the epidemiology and outcomes of specific conditions.
  3. Research addressing the use of case reports: This type of research can investigate the role of case reports in clinical practice and medical education. For example, studies could explore how case reports are used to inform clinical decision-making or to teach medical students.

All articles should follow the relevant Equator Network guidelines to ensure transparent and complete reporting of research studies. 

7) Editorials

Editorials are usually written by the editor-in-chief or a member of the editorial board and are not peer-reviewed, typically used to express the opinion of the editor or editorial board of a publication on a particular issue or topic. These may include the launch of a new journal, a new section within the journal, a new editor-in-chief, and raising awareness about treatment approaches, emerging diseases, or the latest research findings in a particular field of medicine.

Editorials should not include unpublished or original data, as they are not peer-reviewed and are not intended to present new research findings. Also, they should provide a conflict of interest statement to ensure transparency and to disclose any potential conflicts of interest.

A letter to the editor is typically written in response to an article or editorial that has been published in a medical journal and provide readers with an opportunity to share their opinions and perspectives on a particular topic, and they may serve to correct inaccuracies, challenge assumptions, or provide additional information or context to a previously published article. Researchers are requested to add a “Comment” directly on the article page if they have any feedback. If authors would like to provide an expert commentary or insights on a particular topic, they should submit their article as a Perspective piece. We rarely consider unsolicited Letter to Editor for publication.

8) Perspectives 

Perspectives provide expert commentary and insights on a particular topic or issue in medicine. It is important to ensure that your perspective is well-researched and evidence-based. While perspectives may be more opinion-based than research articles, they still require a strong foundation in the existing literature and should be supported by credible sources. Hence, authors should include accurate citations and references to other authors' work. Original data should not be reported in a Perspective article. 

Word limit: 4000 words 

9) Comments 

Comments offer readers an opportunity to provide their thoughts, opinions, and perspectives on a particular topic, and they may serve to add new information, offer additional insights, or provide a different perspective on a published piece in the journal. 

Authors can directly comment on the article published in Osler Medicine. Comments should be brief and focused on a specific aspect of the article, and should be presented in a professional and respectful manner.

Disclaimer: While most comments will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive, moderation decisions are subjective. Published comments are readers’ own views and The Business Standard does not endorse any of the readers’ comments.

 

Formatting guidelines

Case Reports and Case Series

Title 

Abbreviations

Non-standard abbreviations should be defined at their first occurrence in the text, and only be used consistently thereafter. This helps to ensure that readers can understand the meaning of the abbreviation. It is recommended to avoid using abbreviations in headings, abstracts, and other sections where the text needs to be clear and concise. Use the same abbreviation consistently throughout the text, and avoid using multiple abbreviations for the same term.

 

Abstract

Word limit: 150 words

The abstract should provide a brief summary of the case report, including the patient's history, presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. It should be no more than 150 words and should be structured in the following sections: Background, Case presentation, Conclusion.

Keywords: List 3-10 relevant keywords or phrases that describe the content of the study.

Graphical abstract (optional but recommended)

Graphical abstract should be a visual representation of the main findings of a research article. It should be clear, concise, and easy to understand. It should include images, graphs, and other visual aids.  

Guidelines for graphical abstract:

 

Video abstracts 

Video abstracts are a dynamic and engaging way to communicate the key findings and concepts of your research paper. It should provide a brief summary of the main findings and concepts discussed in the paper. It should be visually engaging, with a clear and concise message that conveys the significance of the research.

Creating a good video abstract:

Recommended video format guidelines for creating video abstracts:

How to submit?

Video abstracts can be submitted using our submission system where you can attach the youtube or vimeo link. Click the Insert video abstract button in the toolbar and insert the URL of the video into the designated field. 

 

Introduction 

Begin the introduction with a general statement or statement of interest that provides background information on the clinical case(s) and captures the reader's attention.

Authors should provide a brief overview of the clinical question or problem that the research addresses. It should also include a concise literature review that highlights the relevant studies and clinical guidelines related to the case(s).

Case presentation: This section should provide detailed information on the patient's history, clinical presentation, and relevant physical examination and laboratory findings. It should include:

Author should also describe the diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, the outcome of the interventions, any complications or adverse effects, and any long-term follow-up.

Discussion: The discussion should provide a critical analysis of the case and should include:

Patient’s perspective: This section should describe the patient's perspective on the case, including their experience of the illness and the interventions, and any impact on their quality of life.

 

Original Article

Title 

Abbreviations

Non-standard abbreviations should be defined at their first occurrence in the text, and only be used consistently thereafter. This helps to ensure that readers can understand the meaning of the abbreviation. It is recommended to avoid using abbreviations in headings, abstracts, and other sections where the text needs to be clear and concise. Use the same abbreviation consistently throughout the text, and avoid using multiple abbreviations for the same term.

Abstract

Word limit: 250 words

The structure of an abstract may vary slightly depending on the reporting guideline requirements mentioned above, but generally, the following elements should be included:

Graphical abstract (optional but recommended) - guidelines as stated above.

Video abstract (optional but recommended) - guidelines as stated above.

 

Introduction 

Begin the introduction with a general statement or statement of interest that provides background information on the topic and captures the reader's attention.

Describe the context and background of the research question or problem being addressed. Clearly establish the relevance and importance of the research question or problem. State the objectives or hypotheses of the study. This provides a clear focus and direction for the research and helps the reader to understand what the study aims to achieve. 

Methods

Authors should ensure that they follow the reporting guidelines mentioned above according to the article type. 

Results:

Begin with a brief summary of the main findings of the study, highlighting any key results or trends. Provide descriptive statistics for any quantitative data, including measures of central tendency and variability. Use tables and figures to help organize and present the data in a clear and concise manner and avoid interpretation of the results in the results section. Report negative findings as well as positive findings, as this can help to prevent publication bias and provide a more complete picture of the study.

Discussion and conclusion:

Interpret the results of the study in the context of the study's research question or hypotheses and relate the findings of the study to the existing literature in the field. Identify any similarities or differences between the current study and previous research, and consider how the current findings contribute to the overall understanding of the topic.

Discuss the implications of the results for future research, practice, or policy. Also, discuss the limitations of the study, including any potential biases or sources of error.

Include brief conclusions based on the findings of the study, and consider any future directions for research.

References

Osler Press follows the Vancouver referencing style.

Format:

The reference list can include published or accepted manuscripts, as well as manuscripts on preprint servers that have a citable DOI. It is not recommended to cite unpublished work, unpublished data, retracted articles and personal communications in the reference list, unless necessary. 

Types of sources:

 

  1. Examples:

Journal article:

 [1] McCarthy PM, Nakatani S, Vargo R, Kottke-Marchant K, Harasaki H, James KB, et al. Structural and left ventricular histologic changes after implantable LVAD insertion. The Annals of Thoracic Surgery. 1995 Mar;59(3):609–13. 

Book:

[2] Murray CJ, Lopez AD. The global epidemiology of infectious diseases. Mathers CD, editor. Cambridge: Harvard University Press; 2004 Jan 1.

Website:

[3] World Health Organization. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). WHO website. https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases/. Published 2021. Accessed March 29, 2023.

 

Supplementary Files:

Include any additional information that may be useful, such as informed consent forms, questionnaires, or protocols for data collection or analysis. Specify the format and organization of the supplementary files.

Overall, ensure that the manuscript is written in clear and concise language, with a consistent style and formatting. Use the headings and subheadings recommended by relevant guidelines to ensure that all relevant information is included. 

 

Acknowledgements

Authors are required to acknowledge individuals who have made a significant contribution to the article, but did not qualify the authorship criteria. This may include individuals who provided technical assistance, laboratory or statistical support, or who helped with study design. Any use of artificial intelligence or writing tools also needs to be acknowledged. Obtain written permission from all individuals or organizations being acknowledged prior to publication.

Also, acknowledge any potential conflicts of interest or relationships that may have influenced the research or the writing of the article.

 

Funding

In the funding section of the article, all funding sources including grants, donations, and sponsorships should be explicitly and fully disclosed. The grant number should also be specified if applicable. 

The authors are required to specify the involvement of the funding organization or sponsor, if there is any, in various aspects of the study, including study design, data collection, analysis and interpretation, report writing, and submission of the paper for publication. In case the funding source did not play a role in any of these aspects, this should also be clearly mentioned. Authors are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest related to the funding sources.

Osler Press articles are published with open access and are subject to the Creative Commons attribution license 4.0. This means that the publication fulfills the open access requirements set forth by various institutions and funding bodies.

If the manuscript is published, funding information will be deposited to Funder Registry, a funder identification service from CrossRef. 


Figures 

  1. Image resolution: Highest available quality figures should be uploaded. A minimum resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch) is recommended, with at least 300 pixels per inch.
  2. File format: Figures should be submitted in one of the following file formats: .PNG

.JPEG

.TIFF

3. Color: Color figures are encouraged, but authors should ensure that the colors used are distinguishable in grayscale. Please avoid using color combinations that may be difficult to distinguish, such as red-green. 

4. File Size: The individual figure files should not exceed 10 MB in size. If the figure is of extremely high quality and requires a larger file size, authors must contact the journal's editorial office to discuss alternative submission options.

5. Labels and legends: All figures must be labeled and can include a legend. The legend should provide a brief description of the figure content and explain any abbreviations or symbols used. The system automatically assigns a number to all media items. Therefore, there is no need to add the number to the title.

6. Font size: Text within figures should be legible at the size used in the published version of the manuscript. A font size of 10 points or larger is recommended.

7. Figures with multiple panels: If a figure consists of multiple panels, each panel should be labeled with a lowercase letter in parentheses (e.g., (a), (b), (c), etc.).

8. any excess white space around the image content should be cropped out to ensure that the figure is as clear and concise as possible. 

9. Copyright: Authors must ensure that they have the appropriate permissions for any copyrighted material used in their figures.

10. Ethics: All figures should comply with ethical guidelines and should not contain any identifiable            patient information without written informed consent. 

The submission portal has a toolbar that allows you to add media to your article. This toolbar includes options to insert a figure, table, or video. Once you choose the desired option, you will be asked to upload the corresponding media file or paste the video URL. You will also need to provide a title and an optional legend.

To add a figure to your article, follow these steps:

 

Tables

  1. Each table should have a clear and concise title that accurately reflects the content of the table.
  2. The table should include headings for each column and row that provide context and clarify the meaning of the data. These headings should be clear and concise, and they should use terminology that is consistent with the rest of the article.
  3. Footnotes should be included to provide additional information about specific data points or to clarify any details that may be unclear from the table alone.
  4. All rows must contain data, and there should be no empty cells.
  5. It is important to note that the tables must be editable, meaning that they can be modified by the journal's typesetters if necessary. By creating tables as editable, cell-based objects, authors can ensure that their tables will be properly formatted and easy to read in the final published article.
  6. The top row of the table is considered the header row and will be bolded to distinguish it from the rest of the table.
  7. If the author cites a reference within a table, they must also include the full citation for that source in the references section of the article. 

To insert a table:

Videos 

Supplementary files 

  1. Each supplementary file should be cited at an appropriate point in the main article and should be referred to clearly and accurately.
  2. Supplementary files should be submitted in the format in which they were created (e.g. PDF, JPEG, XLS, DOC etc.) and should be named clearly and descriptively.
  3. All supplementary files should be checked for accuracy and consistency before submission, and should be free of any errors or omissions, as they will be  published exactly as they are received. Please remove any tracked changes option before submitting the file.
  4. Supplementary files will be made available to readers as a separate download from the main article.

 

Manuscript Charges

There are no article processing charges of any kind for publication in Osler Case Reports. There is no submission fee and no extra charges levied on color image publication. All the costs of publication, copyediting, human resource, infrastructure or any other charges are bore by the journal.

We believe that academic publishing should be accessible to all researchers, regardless of their financial situation. We are committed to providing a platform for high-quality research to be published and shared with the broader scientific community, without imposing financial barriers.

We hope that by eliminating financial barriers, we can encourage a diverse range of researchers to submit their work to our journal and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.

However, please note that as we continue to grow and expand our services, we may need to revisit our manuscript charges policy in the future. We will always strive to keep fees as low as possible and provide waivers whenever possible, and any changes to our policy will be communicated transparently to our authors.

Osler Press will continue to provide waivers for the full Article Processing Charge (100% discount of the APC) where all authors are based in low-income countries. This pertains to writers from nations categorized by the World Bank as having low income economies, as well as those who are part of HINARI (Health InterNetwork Access to Research Initiative). 

Press release

In case an institution or funder of one or more of the authors plans to prepare and release a press release, authors should contact the editorial board and adhere to the following guidelines:

If Osler Press decides to issue a press release for an article, the author(s) will usually be notified in advance and given the opportunity to provide input and feedback on the content of the release. The author(s) will also be asked to review a draft of the release before it is finalized and shared with the media. This helps to ensure that the release accurately reflects the findings of the article and that any potential misinterpretations or errors are corrected before the release is distributed. It also allows the author(s) to provide any additional context or information that they feel is important for the media and the public to understand.