Submission Guidelines
GUIDE FOR AUTHORS
Scientific Insights and Reflections in Multidisciplinary Approaches, Theory, and Application (SIRMATA): An International Journal of Visionary Research and Innovation
I. Manuscript Submission
All manuscripts must be original, unpublished works of the author(s). Submission implies that all co-authors and relevant authorities, including research funders or affiliated institutions, have approved the manuscript. SIRMATA assumes no legal responsibility for any claims arising from submitted content. By submitting, authors agree to assign exclusive copyright to the journal if accepted for publication.
Submission Process
• Manuscripts must be submitted electronically in Microsoft Word format.
• Adherence to the SIRMATA manuscript template is required.
• The manuscript should be 10 to 15 pages, single-spaced.
Manuscript Sections
1. Original Research Articles
Full-length reports of empirical studies presenting new data, analyses, and interpretations in any discipline or interdisciplinary field. These articles should provide a comprehensive account of the research process, including objectives, methodology, results, and discussion.
• Title Page
• Abstract
• Keywords
• Introduction
• Materials and Methods
• Results and Discussion
• Conclusion and Recommendations
• Acknowledgment
• Literature Cited
Title Page
• Provide a concise, informative title. If applicable, include scientific names.
• List all authors, affiliations, and addresses.
• Indicate the corresponding author with a valid email address.
• Format: Title centered at the top of page 1; authors’ names and affiliations double-spaced and centered below the title. Separate multiple authors with commas.
Abstract
• A single paragraph, 150–250 words, summarizing the study’s background, objectives, methods, key results, and implications.
• Do not use undefined abbreviations or citations.
• Use 11-point Times New Roman, justified margins, no indentation.
• Example structure:
Background: This study explores the impact of urban green spaces on community well-being.
Objectives: To assess how park accessibility influences physical activity.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 500 residents was conducted.
Results: Increased park access correlated with higher physical activity levels.
Implications: Findings suggest urban planning should prioritize green spaces.
Full Abstract
Urban green spaces are increasingly recognized as vital components of healthy, livable cities, yet their specific effects on community well-being and physical activity remain underexplored in many urban settings. This study investigates the relationship between park accessibility and physical activity among residents in a metropolitan area. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, a structured survey was administered to 500 randomly selected residents across diverse neighborhoods. The survey collected data on participants’ frequency of park visits, perceived accessibility of green spaces, and self-reported levels of physical activity. Statistical analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between the accessibility of parks and the frequency and duration of physical activity among respondents. Residents who reported living closer to parks or having easier access were more likely to engage in regular physical activity, including walking, jogging, and group exercises. These findings persisted after controlling for demographic variables such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status. The results underscore the importance of integrating accessible green spaces into urban planning as a strategy to promote public health and enhance community well-being. Urban planners and policymakers are encouraged to prioritize the development and maintenance of parks and green corridors, especially in densely populated or underserved areas. By fostering environments that facilitate active lifestyles, cities can contribute to improved physical health outcomes and a greater sense of community among residents. This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the multifaceted benefits of urban green spaces and highlights the need for equitable access in future city development initiatives.
Keywords
• Provide 5 keywords, arranged alphabetically, for indexing.
Introduction
• Establish context, significance, and objectives of the study.
• Review relevant, recent literature using in-text citations (APA 7th edition preferred1).
• At least 80% of citations should be from recent, peer-reviewed sources.
• Example:
Urban green spaces contribute to improved mental health and social cohesion (Lee & Kim, 2022).
Materials and Methods
• Clearly describe research design, study sites (including coordinates for field studies), participants, data collection, and analysis procedures.
• Use in-text citations for standard methods.
• Example:
Water quality parameters were measured following the procedures of Smith et al. (2021).
• Subsection headings: 12-point bold; subheadings italicized, only the first word capitalized.
Results and Discussion
• Present results objectively, supported by tables and figures as needed.
• Begin with text, referencing tables and figures in sequence.
• Discuss findings in relation to literature, using in-text citations.
• Example:
The observed increase in pollinator diversity aligns with findings by Garcia et al. (2023).
• Table and figure captions: Times New Roman 11-point bold, numbered (e.g., "Table 1"). Table captions above tables; figure captions below figures. Use 9-point font for table text, 10-point for legends.
Conclusion and Recommendations
• Summarize main findings and offer recommendations in paragraph form, not numbered.
• Use 12-point Times New Roman, justified margins, first line indented.
Acknowledgments
• Recognize individuals and organizations that supported the study, including funding sources.
• Use 11-point Times New Roman, justified margins, first line indented.
Literature Cited
• List all references cited in the manuscript, following APA 7th edition style1.
• At least 80% should be from indexed, peer-reviewed journals or books with ISBN.
• Minimum of 20 references required.
• Examples:
• Journal Article (with DOI):
Kim, S. J., & Patel, R. (2022). Exploring urban biodiversity: A global review. Urban Ecology, 15(2), 101-115. https://doi.org/10.1016/urbeco.2022.101115
• Book:
Rivera, M. E. (2021). Sustainable cities and communities. Manila, Philippines: Green Press.
• Book Chapter:
Santos, L. P. (2020). Urban parks and public health. In J. Dela Cruz (Ed.), Urban Planning in Southeast Asia (pp. 45-67). Singapore: Academic Publishing.
• Web Document:
World Health Organization. (2023). Urban green spaces and health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/urbangreenspaces
2. Review Articles (Narrative, Systematic, Meta-Analysis)
Critical, integrative, or systematic reviews that synthesize existing literature, identify trends, and propose directions for future research. Reviews may be narrative, systematic, or meta-analytical in approach
• Title Page: Title, Author(s), Affiliations, Corresponding Author Email, ORCID iDs
• Abstract: 200–300 words, structured (Background, Objectives, Methods, Key Findings, Conclusions)
• Keywords: 5–7
• Introduction
• Methods (for systematic reviews/meta-analyses)
• Main Body (Organized by themes, chronology, or research questions)
• Discussion
• Conclusion and Future Directions
• Acknowledgments
• References
3. Short Communications/Brief Reports
Concise reports of significant findings, preliminary data, or innovative methodologies that merit rapid dissemination. These articles are typically shorter than full research articles but must maintain scientific rigor.
• Title Page: Title, Author(s), Affiliations, Corresponding Author Email, ORCID iDs
• Abstract: Up to 150 words (Background, Methods, Results, Conclusions)
• Keywords: 3–5
• Introduction
• Methods
• Results and Discussion (combined)
• Conclusion
• References (at least 8)
4. Case Studies/Case Reports
Detailed descriptions and analyses of unique cases, events, or phenomena, often in applied fields such as health, education, or management. Case studies provide insights that may inform practice or future research.
• Title Page: Title, Author(s), Affiliations, Corresponding Author Email, ORCID iDs
• Abstract: 150–200 words (Background, Case Presentation, Outcome, Implications)
• Keywords: 3–5
• Introduction
• Case Presentation
• Discussion
• Conclusion
• Acknowledgments
• References
5. Methodology / Methods Articles
Articles introducing new or improved research methods, experimental procedures, or analytical techniques. These should demonstrate clear advances over existing approaches and be broadly applicable.
• Title Page: Title, Author(s), Affiliations, Corresponding Author Email, ORCID iDs
• Abstract: 200–250 words (Background, Purpose, Description of Method, Applications, Conclusions)
• Keywords: 3–5
• Introduction
• Description of Method/Procedure
• Validation/Comparison with Existing Methods
• Applications/Limitations
• Conclusion
• References
6. Theoretical Articles
Manuscripts that develop, critique, or advance theoretical frameworks, models, or concepts relevant to multidisciplinary research. These articles may propose new hypotheses or challenge established perspectives.
• Title Page: Title, Author(s), Affiliations, Corresponding Author Email, ORCID iDs
• Abstract: 200–250 words (Background, Theoretical Framework, Key Arguments, Implications)
• Keywords: 3–5
• Introduction
• Development of Theory/Model
• Supporting Arguments/Evidence
• Discussion
• Conclusion
• References
7. Perspective, Opinion, Commentary
Scholarly essays presenting viewpoints, expert opinions, or critical analyses on current issues, recent developments, or published articles. These pieces stimulate debate and encourage interdisciplinary dialogue.
• Title Page: Title, Author(s), Affiliations, Corresponding Author Email, ORCID iDs
• Abstract: 100–150 words (Summary of Viewpoint/Issue)
• Keywords: 3–5
• Main Text (organized by subheadings if needed)
• References
8. Letters to the Editor
Short communications addressing recent articles published in SIRMATA or raising new questions and perspectives for discussion.
• Title: Concise and specific
• Main Text: Up to 800 words
• References: Up to 5
General Formatting Notes
• Tables and Figures: Numbered consecutively, with descriptive captions. Place tables above and figures below captions.
• Supplementary Materials: Include as appendices or separate files as needed.
• Blind Review: Submit a blinded version with no author-identifying information for peer review.
II. Style and Formatting
• Use Times New Roman, 12-point font, 1" margins on all sides.
• Abstract, table/figure captions, and acknowledgment: 11-point font.
• Single-spaced throughout.
• Automatic page numbering at the bottom right.
• Tables and figures must be self-explanatory and referenced in the text.
• Do not use italic lettering in tables or figures. Legends are placed below tables/figures.
III. Ethical and Responsible Publication Practices
• Manuscripts must be original and not under consideration elsewhere.
• All authors must have contributed significantly and approve the submission.
• Research involving humans or animals must have appropriate ethical approval and informed consent.
• Disclose all conflicts of interest and funding sources.
• Plagiarism, data fabrication, and redundant publication are strictly prohibited and checked with plagiarism detection software2.
• SIRMATA follows a rigorous double-blind peer review process to ensure publication quality3.
IV. Submission Checklist
• Manuscript follows SIRMATA template and guidelines.
• All authors approved the submission.
• Ethical standards are met; approvals and disclosures included.
• References are complete and formatted per APA 7th edition.
• Manuscript is original and not submitted elsewhere.