INTRODUCTION

    Types of paper

    Contributions falling into the following categories will be considered for publication:

    Original research papers; review articles; rapid communications; short communications; viewpoints; letters to the Editor; book reviews.

    1.Research papers - original full-length research papers which have not been published previously,except in a preliminary form, and should not exceed 7,500 words (including allowance for no more than 6 tables and illustrations).

    2.Review articles - will be accepted in areas of topical interest, will normally focus on literature published over the previous five years, and should not exceed 10,000 words (including allowance for no more than 6 tables and illustrations).

    3.Rapid communications - an original research paper reporting a major scientifi c result or finding with signifi cant implications for the research community, designated by the Editor.

    4.Short communications - Short communications of up to 3000 words, describing work that may be of a preliminary nature but which merits immediate publication. ......