Volume 189 - Issue 11
Let’s cut to the chase: quotes from MJA contributors in 2008
Author: Ann T Gregory
Med J Aust 2008; 189 (11): 645. || doi: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2008.tb02228.x
Published online: 1 December 2008
Published online: 1 December 2008
The phrase “cut to the chase” is thought to have originated as a script direction in early silent films which, after some romantic meanderings, would often climax in chase scenes.1 The phrase’s figurative meaning — to get straight to the point — emerged by the 1940s, and is very popular with MJA medical editors today when advising aspiring contributors. We like original submissions that are pithy and leave no doubt as to their intention.
We happily share the following delightful observations received in Journal correspondence this year that relate to various aspects of medical publishing. Not one “beats around the bush” (but that’s another story).
Introductions: how to charm an editor
The cover letters that accompany submissions to the Journal tend to follow a standard format. However, on occasion, one does stand out from the crowd:
(Editor’s note: This paper did not proceed to print in the MJA, as it did not meet Journal criteria for publication.)
Methods: you’re not fooling me
Reviewer: Certainly the authors used both quantitative and qualitative approaches, but the mere conjunction of such approaches in the one study does not constitute a mixed-methods approach. By their demonstration, throwing flour, eggs and water in a bowl will produce pasta. Not unless some skill and care is applied, I’m afraid!
Conflict of interest: pardon me
References
- The Phrase Finder. Meanings and origins of phrases, sayings and idioms [website]. http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/107300.html (accessed Nov 2008).