Image Integrity

The final manuscript is to be submitted with high-quality images with a minimum resolution of 300 d.p.i. for coloured images, while 600 d.p.i. for images on greyscale and 1200 d.p.i. for images with line art.

The authors are recommended to follow the below-mentioned instructions for image processing:

  • Extreme processing must be avoided, such as manipulation in image contrast to focus one region of the results displayed in the image. While the minor processing includes minute changes in brightness and contrast of the overall image to ensure visibility. 
  • The authors may be asked to submit unprocessed images upon final submission. Therefore, data retention is mandatory.
  • Proper listing of the image processing tools, software packages, image gathering techniques, and settings and manipulations must be mentioned in the methodology section.  
  • The authors are recommended to avoid using cloning and healing tools while using photoshop. 

Microscopy

Juxtapose multiple cells is recommended from several fields into a single field. However, we suggest forming multiple supporting fields to grasp an improved understanding of the readers. Any adjustments made must reflect on the entire image, and manipulation with signal ranges is to be avoided. 

Checklist for Image processing

Methodology of the submitted manuscript must include the following in terms of image processing:

  • Initial resolution at which the image was captured. 
  • Processing of the image for enhancing resolution. 
  • Types of tools and acquisition software are used for image processing like microscopes/objective lenses, cameras, detectors, and filter models, etc. 
  • Manipulations in the final image must be disclosed.

Image Manipulation

In case an image manipulation is suspected or identified by the reader, editor or reviewer, the corresponding author will then be offered a chance to offer an explanation. If found unsatisfactory or the manipulation is admitted by the author, the manuscript is usually retracted, but in some cases, the author may be requested to submit changes; however, this is only possible if work was mostly original and only minor manipulation was made among images.