Article Types

Article Types

Health Nexus publishes a range of article types that reflect its interdisciplinary focus on integrative medicine, bridging Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). All submissions must demonstrate scientific rigor, ethical compliance, and interdisciplinary relevance.

1. Original Research Articles

Description: Reports of novel scientific findings from clinical, experimental, or translational research.

Requirements:

• Structured format: Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion (IMRaD)
• Clear research question and hypothesis
• Robust methodology and appropriate statistical analysis
• Ethical approval and informed consent (if applicable)

Word Count: 3,000–6,000 words

Abstract: Structured (150–300 words)

2. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses

Description: Comprehensive syntheses of existing evidence using systematic methodology.

Requirements:

• Must follow PRISMA guidelines
• Clearly defined search strategy and selection criteria
• Risk of bias assessment
• Quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis) where appropriate

Word Count: 4,000–7,000 words

Abstract: Structured

3. Narrative Reviews and Perspectives

Description: Critical overviews or expert opinions on emerging topics, clinical practices, or theoretical developments.

Requirements:

• Clear scope and rationale
• Balanced and evidence-based discussion
• Methodological transparency encouraged

Word Count: 3,000–5,000 words

Abstract: Unstructured

4. Case Reports

Description: Detailed presentations of individual or series of clinical cases with significant educational or clinical value.

Requirements:

• Must follow CARE guidelines
• Clear clinical relevance and novelty
• Integration of TCM and/or interdisciplinary insights encouraged

Word Count: 1,500–3,000 words

Abstract: Unstructured

5. Methodological and Theoretical Papers

Description: Papers proposing new research methods, analytical frameworks, or theoretical models relevant to integrative medicine.

Requirements:

• Strong conceptual foundation
• Clear methodological innovation or interdisciplinary contribution
• Logical consistency and applicability

Word Count: 3,000–6,000 words

6. Short Communications

Description: Brief reports of preliminary findings or novel observations of high relevance.

Requirements:

• Concise and focused
• Preliminary but scientifically sound data
• Limited figures and tables

Word Count: 1,500–2,500 words

7. Editorials and Commentaries

Description: Short pieces providing expert commentary on published articles or emerging issues.

Requirements:

• Typically commissioned by the editorial board
• Concise and opinion-driven, supported by evidence

Word Count: 1,000–2,000 words

General Requirements for All Article Types