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ACCSMI Annals of Clinical Case Studies and Medical Images

Authors Guidelines

The journal is committed to disseminating high-quality scholarly work that advances clinical knowledge, fosters medical education, and strengthens evidence-based practice across all disciplines of healthcare. We welcome submissions that contribute meaningful insights to the medical community—whether through the presentation of novel clinical findings, unique or rare case scenarios, innovative research methods, or valuable educational perspectives.

ACCSMI accepts a wide array of manuscript types, including clinical case reports, case series, original research articles, review articles, image-based clinical observations, case studies, video articles, opinions and short articles. Manuscripts are expected to offer well-supported interpretations, practical implications for healthcare professionals, and contributions that enrich the existing body of medical literature. Through this diverse publication framework, the journal aims to promote continuous learning, stimulate clinical discussion, and support the ongoing advancement of medical practice across various specialties.

Submission Requirements

Originality and Exclusivity: Authors must ensure that their manuscripts represent original scholarly work that has not been published previously and is not being evaluated by any other journal simultaneously. Submissions should not contain plagiarized material, duplicated text, or previously disseminated content in any form.

Language and Clarity: Manuscripts should be written in clear, coherent, and professionally structured English, enabling seamless comprehension by reviewers and readers.

Cover Letter: Every submission must be accompanied by a comprehensive cover letter. This letter should clearly indicate the type of manuscript being submitted and explicitly confirm that the work is original and exclusive to this journal. The letter should also disclose any potential conflicts of interest, ethical approvals (if applicable), funding sources, and acknowledgments of contributions that supported the study.

Manuscript Submission Process

Authors are invited to submit their manuscripts through the journal’s Online Submission Portal, offering a convenient and efficient submission process that facilitates timely handling and review.

Alternatively, manuscripts may be submitted as email attachments, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for authors, with all submissions directed to the following address: [email protected]

Manuscript Guidelines

ACCSMI accepts all manuscript types without restrictions on word count or page length, allowing authors to present their research without limitation. This flexible policy encourages clarity, depth, and innovation, providing a platform for comprehensive studies, interdisciplinary work, and emerging scholarly contributions. By supporting detailed and diverse research, the journal aims to advance knowledge, foster collaboration, and strengthen evidence-based clinical and scientific practice across global research communities.

Font Styles & Formatting Details

Language: English

Font Styles:

🔹Title: Centered, Times New Roman, 15 pt.

🔹Headings: Left: Times New Roman, 11 pt.

🔹Subheadings: Left: Times New Roman, 10 pt.

Spacing: Double-spaced

Margins: 1 inch

File Format: Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx), PDF

Figures: JPG or PNG (min. 300 dpi)

Limitations of Manuscripts

Authors are invited to submit manuscripts of any type, with no limitations on word count, pages, figures, or tables.

Manuscript Types and Structures

MANUSCRIPT TYPEPURPOSESTANDARD STRUCTURE
Case StudyPresents a unique clinical case to enhance understanding of diagnosis, management, Offers educational value for clinicians and researchers.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Introduction; Case Description; Discussion; Conclusion; References; Figures/Tables
Original ResearchReports original research that advances scientific knowledge, provides new insights, and contributes to clinical practice through hypothesis-driven investigation.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Abbreviations; Introduction; Methods; Results & Discussion; Conclusion; References; Figures/Tables
ReviewSynthesizes and critically evaluates existing literature on a topic, highlighting trends, gaps, and future research directions.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Introduction; Sections; Discussion; Conclusion; References; Figures/Tables
Case ReportDescribes a single patient case with unusual features or novel management approaches, contributing to clinical knowledge.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Introduction; Case Description; Discussion; Conclusion; References; Figures/Tables
Mini ReviewProvides a concise summary of recent advances or key developments in a specific area, focusing on clarity and relevance.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Introduction; Sections; Conclusion; References; Figures/Tables
Case SeriesSummarizes multiple related cases to identify patterns, trends, or emerging clinical phenomena.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Introduction; Case Summaries; Discussion; Conclusion; References; Figures/Tables
Short CommunicationReports brief, focused findings or preliminary results with potential for immediate scientific impact.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract (optional); Keywords; Introduction; Methods; Results/Discussion; Conclusion; References
Clinical ImageHighlights important clinical, radiological, or pathological images with brief explanatory text for educational purposes.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Description; References; Image & Caption
Video ArticleDemonstrates clinical procedures, laboratory techniques or methods using video supported by descriptive text for clarity.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Introduction; Methods; Discussion/Conclusion; References; Video & Captions
Rapid CommunicationConveys urgent, high-impact findings that require expedited dissemination to the scientific community.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Introduction; Methods/Findings; Discussion; Conclusion; References; Figures/Tables
EditorialProvides expert commentary or insight on current topics, recent publications, or emerging trends in the field.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Main Text; References
Opinion / CommentaryExpresses the author’s informed viewpoint on scientific, clinical, encouraging discussion and debate within the research community.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Abstract; Keywords; Main Text; References
PerspectiveOffers a scholarly viewpoint or analysis on scientific concepts, clinical practice, or policy issues.Title; Authors & Affiliations; Main Text; Conclusion; References

Guidelines for Manuscript Structure

Title Page

Title: Provide a full, concise, and descriptive title of the manuscript

Authors and Affiliations: List the full names of all authors along with their institutional affiliations. 

Corresponding Author: Include the name, affiliation, email address, and contact number. 

Running Title: If required, include a short version of the title.

Word Count: Specify the total word count of the manuscript.

Tables and Figures: Indicate the total number of tables and figures included.

Author(s):

List author names using the last name followed by their initials, written without spaces or punctuation marks between the initials. When multiple authors are included, connect their names using the word “and.” Assign superscript numbers after each author’s initials to indicate their respective affiliations. The corresponding author should be identified with a superscript asterisk (*).

Example:

Johnson RT1, Charles HS1* and Darwyn LI2

Affiliation(s):

Provide author affiliations in the following sequence: Department, University, Country, Email. Each affiliation must correspond to the superscript number assigned to the author in the author list.

Example Affiliations:

Johnson RT1, Charles HS1* and Darwyn LI2

1Department of Neurology, University of Virginia School, USA

2Department of Surgery, University of California, USA

*Corresponding Author:

Present the corresponding author’s details as: Last name followed by initials, Department, University, full postal address, Country, telephone number, fax number, and email address.

Example:

Charles HS, Department of Neurology, University of Virginia School, Virginia, ON M5R 0A3, USA

Tel: 123-456-7890; Fax: 123-456-7890; Email: [email protected]

Abstract 

The abstract should summarize the background, case presentation, key findings, and clinical significance. 

           1. Do not include citations in the abstract.

           2. Keep it informative yet concise.

Authors should provide an abstract of 250–300 words.

Keywords 

List 3 to 6 relevant keywords below the abstract to aid in indexing and searchability.

Introduction

Provide background information on the condition or topic. Explain the clinical relevance and briefly reference prior literature. End with a sentence that states the purpose or uniqueness of the case.

   🔹 All references should be cited using sequential numbers in square brackets [ ].

Materials and Methods

Authors must clearly describe the study design and provide a complete list of materials, instruments, and equipment, including manufacturer and model details. Manuscripts should specify participant selection criteria, including inclusion, exclusion, and final sample size. Data collection methods must be outlined, and all procedures or interventions presented in a logical, reproducible order. Authors should detail the statistical analyses, including tests performed, software used, and significance thresholds. Any modifications to standard clinical or laboratory methods must be explicitly stated and justified. All methods should be described with sufficient clarity to enable accurate replication by other researchers.

Case Presentation

Case presentation should briefly describe patient demographics (non-identifying), summarize the clinical history and presenting symptoms, outline key physical exam findings, and detail the diagnostic workup including relevant labs and imaging. Treatments or interventions administered should be stated clearly, followed by a concise account of the patient’s follow-up and outcome.

Discussion

In the Discussion section, authors are expected to interpret the case findings within the context of the existing scientific literature, emphasizing any novel, rare, or atypical features. The section should address diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, provide a comparative analysis with similar reported cases, and acknowledge any limitations that may affect the validity, interpretation of the observations. Additionally, the discussion should highlight the clinical significance, educational value, and potential implications for practice or future research.

Conclusion

Summarize the key takeaway or clinical lesson from the case. Keep it concise and focused on its educational or practical value.

References

Arrange references sequentially as cited, including all required information and formatted according to the journal’s style.

Examples:

  ≤6 authors: Smith A, Rao B, Lee M. Novel imaging findings in cardiac sarcoidosis. J Clin Res. 2019; 15(3): 210–215.

  >6 authors: Chen Y, Patel S, Kumar R, Ali M, Gomez L, Tran P, et al. Novel imaging findings in cardiac sarcoidosis. J Neuro Imaging. 2020; 12(1): 33–39.

Figures and Tables

  Figures must be high-resolution, submitted as separate image files (JPG or PNG).

  Tables must be in editable format, not embedded as images.

All figures and tables must be cited sequentially in the text (e.g., Figure 1, Table 1), with appropriate legends.

Video File

  Length: Preferably under 10 minutes

  Format: MP4 (1080p recommended)

  Narration: Clear English audio or subtitles

  File Size: Usually ≤ 500 MB; contact editorial office for alternatives if needed

  Upload: Either with manuscript submission or via a secure link (as specified by journal)

Informed Consent Statement

Include a statement confirming that written informed consent was obtained from the patient (or legal guardian) for publication.

E.g., “Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for publication of this case report and accompanying images.”

Conflict of Interest Declaration

Authors are required to disclose any competing financial interests to ensure transparency and allow readers to assess potential sources of bias. At submission, authors must report all direct or indirect financial relationships, collaborations, or funding that may raise concerns regarding conflicts of interest or influence the work’s conclusions or interpretations. If the manuscript is accepted, the disclosed Conflict of Interest information will be included in the published article.

If there are none, state: “The authors declare no conflicts of interest.”

Acknowledgements

Authors should acknowledge individuals, institutions, or organizations that contributed to the work but do not meet the criteria for authorship. This may include technical support, administrative assistance, language editing, funding sources, or any form of non-author contribution. All grants, financial support, or research assistance must be clearly stated.

If there is nothing to acknowledge, authors may include the statement: “No acknowledgements to declare.”

Supplementary Materials

Supplementary files—including datasets, images, or other supporting content—should be submitted separately from the main manuscript.

Ethical Standards
  • All case-based content must include a Patient Consent Statement.
  • Submissions involving human subjects must comply with ethical guidelines and institutional approvals where applicable.
  • Ensure anonymity of patient information in all materials.

Plagiarism Policy

Plagiarism is a serious academic and ethical violation involving the use of another individual’s words, ideas, data, or findings without appropriate attribution. This includes direct copying, paraphrasing without citation, self-plagiarism, and submitting previously published work as original. The Annals of Clinical Case Studies and Medical Images maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of plagiarism. All submitted manuscripts are screened using plagiarism detection software to ensure originality. Authors are responsible for ensuring that their work is entirely original and that proper credit is given to all sources. Any manuscript found to contain plagiarized material will be rejected immediately. In cases where plagiarism is identified after publication, the article may be retracted, and appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) guidelines. Authors, reviewers, and editors are expected to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity throughout the submission and review process.

Peer Review Process

All submitted manuscripts undergo a rigorous double-blind peer review process to ensure scientific validity, originality, and quality. Editorials are generally invited and assessed by the editorial team rather than undergoing formal peer review. Final decisions regarding publication are made by the Editors, taking into account reviewer evaluations and the journal’s editorial policies, thereby maintaining the highest standards of scholarly rigor, fairness, and academic integrity across all published content.

Article Publication Charges (APC)

The ACCSMI Journal is committed to helping researchers share their work with a global audience by removing financial and access-related barriers to scholarly publishing. To support authors and promote worldwide dissemination of research, the journal follows a fully open-access and no-fee publishing model.

Authors publishing in the ACCSMI Journal are not required to pay any Article Publication Charges (APC). A complete waiver is provided for all accepted manuscripts, covering submission, peer review, editorial processing, publication, and online hosting. In addition, Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) are assigned to all published articles free of cost, ensuring permanent discoverability and reliable citation across international platforms.

This policy enables researchers to make their findings freely accessible to global readers, increasing visibility, readership, and citation potential. It is particularly beneficial for early-career researchers, independent scholars, and researchers from developing regions who may face funding limitations.

There are no hidden fees for color figures, supplementary files, or access to published content. By offering free publication and unrestricted access, ACCSMI Journal strengthens global knowledge exchange, supports academic collaboration, and advances research through ethical, inclusive, and transparent publishing practices.

Copyright Policy

All articles published in the Annals of Clinical Case Studies and Medical Images are subject to copyright protection. Upon acceptance of a manuscript, authors are required to assign copyright to the journal, thereby granting it the exclusive right to publish, reproduce, distribute, and archive the work in all forms and media, whether electronic or print, worldwide and in perpetuity.

The journal adheres to an open access publishing model to promote broad dissemination of scholarly content. All published articles are made freely accessible online immediately upon publication under the terms of a Creative Commons license (CC BY 4.0). This license permits unrestricted use, distribution, reproduction, and adaptation of the work in any medium, provided that appropriate credit is given to the original authors and the journal, a link to the license is included, and any changes made are clearly indicated.

While the journal retains copyright, authors retain the right to use their published work for non-commercial purposes, including personal distribution, teaching, institutional repository archiving, academic presentations, and inclusion in theses or dissertations, provided proper citation of the original publication is maintained.

Authors are responsible for ensuring that their submissions do not infringe upon any existing copyrights. Any copyrighted materials, such as figures, tables, or substantial excerpts from other works, must be accompanied by written permission from the original copyright holder at the time of submission.

Any unauthorized commercial use, reproduction, or distribution of content published in the journal is strictly prohibited without explicit written consent from the editorial office. Violations may result in legal action and retraction of the published article.

Article Withdrawal Policy

The ACCSMI is committed to maintaining the integrity of the scientific record. Authors may request withdrawal of a manuscript under certain conditions; however, such requests must be made formally and with valid justification.

If a manuscript is under review and the authors wish to withdraw it, the corresponding author must submit a written request to the editorial office stating the reason for withdrawal. Withdrawal will only be granted if all co-authors have consented. Manuscripts cannot be withdrawn unilaterally once peer review has begun without editorial approval.

If a manuscript has been accepted or published online, withdrawal is generally not permitted. In rare cases—such as ethical violations, plagiarism, or duplicate submission—the editorial board reserves the right to withdraw or retract the article. In such instances, a formal retraction notice will be issued, and the article will remain in the journal’s archive marked as “Withdrawn” or “Retracted.”

Authors who try to withdraw manuscripts improperly or without valid reasons may not have their future submissions accepted.

For all withdrawal-related inquiries, authors must contact the editorial office at [email protected].