Biophysical Journal Editor's message

[Dianne McGavin]

Both to reduce the cost of publication in Biophysical Journal and to
enhance the appearance of the Journal, the Publications Committee and the
Officers of the Society have decided to alter Biophysical Journal policies
regarding the charges to authors for color illustrations. It has been the
practice for many years to charge all authors $400/figure/page for the color
illustrations that appear in their
Biophysical Journal papers. From July 1, 2000 forward, for papers
published by Biophysical Society members, there will be no charge for color
illustrations that the Editorial Board agrees materially enhance the
presentation of the science at issue. A paper will be considered as
published by a Biophysical Society member if its corresponding author is an
active member. In the event authors wish to have illustrations printed in
color that the Editorial Board feels could reasonably be printed in black
and white, they may insist this be done, but will be required to pay the
color charge for all such illustrations at the same rate as non-members.
This change in practices will significantly reduce the Journal's income and
may result in an increase in the amount it pays for color in the event the
usage of color grows. For that reason this policy will be reviewed from time
to time, and may have to be revised in the future. That said, we are hoping
the cost will prove sustainable, and that a significant improvement in the
Journal will result.

Peter Moore * Biophysical Journal Editor

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