From the Editor
Welcome to our First Issue
Welcome to the first issue of the Spartan Medical Research Journal, or SMRJ as it says in or web address. As noted inside the cover of this issue, the purpose of this online peer-reviewed journal is to provide a convenient, formal publication option for research produced by Michigan State University COM students, residents, fellows and faculty. And, as illustrated by the article on page 65 of this issue, we will accept submissions from outside MSUCOM. This journal is the scholarly publication of the MSUCOM Statewide Campus System, staffed by SCS personnel.
Naturally, a venture such as this does not get very far without the help of a large number of people, most especially our panel of reviewers. Many thanks to those who reviewed these initial manuscripts. We are still recruiting reviewers from all medical specialty areas to be members of the Editorial Board. If you have an interest in participating as a reviewer, please contact the Chief Editor.
It has been three years since I wrote the first formal proposal for the establishment of this journal, and I have been acting as the Chief Editor during this development phase. During this period I have formulated the policies, procedures and format for SMRJ, based on a great deal of investigation into established journal protocols, such as the Uniform Requirements of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors. From the beginning the intent has been to have a publication that follows the practices and procedures of a high quality journal.
Now that this endeavor has finally come to fruition, it is time for me to step aside and turn the reins over to a new Chief Editor, as I enter into retirement. Having returned a few years ago to medical education at MSU, where I began my professional career 45 years ago, it is time to move on to the next phase of my life. Your new Chief Editor will be Bill Corser, PhD, RN. Best wishes to him and the rest of the SMRJ staff. If you have comments or suggestions, please contact Dr. Corser; we do accept Letters to the Editor.
Please enjoy this first issue.
Cheers!
Eric D. Zemper, PhD, FACSM
Chief Editor