# Manuscript submission checklist

General editorial guidance. Follow the selected journal's current author instructions.

- [ ] Confirm the article type and the journal's current author instructions.
- [ ] Check word limits, headings, abstract structure, and required files.
- [ ] Match all numerical statements to the approved tables and analyses.
- [ ] Review consistency between the question, methods, results, and conclusions.
- [ ] Confirm references support their associated claims and match the citation list.
- [ ] Check figure quality, legends, permissions, and any required reporting checklist.
- [ ] Have all authors approve the final manuscript and confirm required declarations.
- [ ] Check the cover letter, corresponding author details, and submission files.

Authors are responsible for the final scientific content, approvals, and submission. This checklist is not a certification.