Short Communications

Rationale 

The publication of topical research materials always made in an efficient, timely manner so as to be of maximum benefit to the researchers and the broader readership. The tradition at the CJMP (and its predecessor, The Canadian Mineralogist) has been to publish research-themed papers that generally comprise detailed, comprehensive analyses, syntheses and discussions of relevant subject matters. As such, little latitude is provided, or options available, to the publication of shorter, possibly more topical papers, on themes that fit within the range of subject matters considered for publication. These may be either niche in subject matter or too short in length to be considered for publication. Thus, there is a need for development of an effective manner by which such publications may be accommodated. Doing so broadens the scope of material that can be considered for publication and encourages receipt of submissions from researchers who are hesitant in publishing their material given its brevity or those looking for a venue that provides for this opportunity in a very timely manner. This is why an alternative to the standard manner of publication at CJMP is proposed.

Purpose

Short Communications (SC) is intended to serve as a mechanism supporting the rapid dissemination (<two months) of research materials without the need for a major paper. The SC should be able to stand on its own merits as a publication and must contain sufficient data and associated references to support the conclusions being made.

Content 

Subject matters could include: (1) description of a new analytical technique and its application(s) to the mineral sciences; (2) involve a new scientific breakthrough of special significance or (3) abbreviated progress reports on a particular theme that has important implications to topical subject matters.

Structure 

The criteria for a contribution to be considered for publication as a SC include: (1) the submission must not be more than 2500 words in length (excluding references); (2) an accompanying covering letter from the authors indicating their desire to publish their contribution in this format, along with their rationale for making this requesting and (3) a combined number of figures and tables not to exceed five (5). References may and should be included, but these fall outside of any length requirement.

Restrictions and Conditions

Short Communications is not intended to provide a simplified pathway to the publication of a more in-depth contribution and thus must be able to stand independently on its own merits. Given its relative length, no abstract and subheadings are required: the subject matter and findings must thus be communicated in a highly effective, clear manner. Since a submission accepted for publication implies rapid publication, a SC considered for publication is not expected to require significant revisions and thus, it must be written clearly and cohesively. If significant modifications are required, the contribution may be rejected. Evaluation and decision on publication of a SC submission will be made by a CJMP Editor and up to one reviewer, if the Editor deems the latter necessary.