Journal of Applied Crystallography

The Journal of Applied Crystallography is dedicated to the dissemination of all crystallographic work related to applied sciences, embracing experimental, technical, theoretical and numerical/computing aspects. Apart from regular Research Papers, (invited) Lead Articles, Short Communications and Fast Communications, special sections are devoted to Laboratory Notes, Cryocrystallography, Computer Programs and manuscripts on Teaching and Education. Book Reviews, news of Crystallographers, notes on New Commercial Products and a Calendar of Events complete the set of subjects. The current success is the result of Michael Glazer's nine years of service as Editor. He assembled a fine group of Co-editors and topical Editors to assure expert service to the broad community of authors and readers.

I was fortunate to take over a well-functioning operation in 1999. I have been a Coeditor from 1980 to 1989 already and an occasional Guest Editor for the proceedings of the triennial conferences on small-angle scattering, a field in which I have been active for almost 30 years. My interest and experience in defects and phase transformations in inorganic materials and in crystallographic techniques (using X-rays, neutrons and electrons) will be a good basis for my dedicated attention to the matters of the Journal of Applied Crystallography and for maintaining its high scientific standards.

With the first issue of Volume 33 (February 2000), the Journal of Applied Crystallography changed its format and overall appearance to adopt a more modern look and layout. The keywords printed on each cover will be selected to reflect the variability of content for this particular journal.

After the major changes in appearance and the introduction of online services and other electronic publishing tools, no dramatic changes are planned for the next few years. The use of modern electronic means of submission, production, checking and dissemination offers new possibilities for the presentation of scientific results. Authors, readers and editors will have to learn how to use the electronic media efficiently and skillfully. The possibility of offering online features within an article should be fully explored but should not lead to a loss of quality, be it electronic or printed material. A good journal is not just a list of links to electronic sites. Peer assessment will remain the major mechanism of assuring the quality of scientific publications, as long as there are readers (and authors) who recognize 'the difference'. In every self-organizing system, the balance between agitation and relaxation on various scales will decide on the overall properties. For the scientific community in general, exchange of ideas and know-how is crucial and must remain feasible (and manageable) on as many 'scales' as possible. A good Journal of Applied Crystallography with all its related activities will continue to serve its purpose.