How Can We Improve the Quality of Scientific Research and Publications? Guidelines for Authors, Editors, and Reviewers

Scientific research (observational, clinical, and metaanalyses/ systematic reviews) applies scientific method to solve medical problems. When the studies are ethically and correctly planned, conducted, and reported, the results guide clinicians and medical decision-makers appropriately. Methodological weaknesses of scientific research may lead to invalid conclusions and a waste of resources. Today’s evidence- based medicine requires high-level clinical trials with certain criteria. These criteria cover all four steps of scientific research, namely, study design, data collection, statistical analysis, and publication. Shortcomings in any of these steps may result in a low-quality paper that has little chance of being published.