Editor's notice

EDITOR'S NOTICE

Changing conditions of research in physics demand corresponding changes in the means of publication. The multiplication of centres of research has n o t . o n l y increased the rate of accamulation of'new experimental results, with its concomitant proliferation of theoretical investigations, but also made lively exchange of information and ideas between these centres an essential feature of modern research activity. This makes it imperative to provide for quick publication of a continually increasing bulk of material, in such a form t h a t it m a y be easily available to workers in the same field and come to their notice without the necessity of scanning huge piles of periodicals of the most varied description. The system of distribution of 'preprints' among physicists pursuing similar lines of research is an emergency measure which only fulfils this purpose very imperfectly, and clearly demonstrates, the need for a more rational organisation of the publication of original papers in various branches of physics. The present venture is a step in this direction. The new journal will be devoted to the experimental and theoretical s t u d y of atomic nuclei, not excluding those lines of research which m a y be expected to throw light on the nature of the nuclear forces, i.e. on the one hand the q u a n t u m t h e o r y of fields, on the other the investigation of the 'elementary' particles. This is, of course, no rigid delimitation of the scope of the journal; it m a y well become advisable to modify it from time to time. The emphasis will be laid on the publication of original papers, including extended reports of completed research as well as shorter notes announcing new results or presenting remarks and suggestions. An effort will be made to provide, whenever this m a y appear useful, longer review articles or shorter reports dealing with questions of topical interest. Moreover, as occasion arises, the journal will publish book reviews and news items of interest for nuclear physicists. The international character Of the journal is ensured by the composition of the Editorial Board, which includes representatives from all countries or groups of countries in which nuclear studies are being pursued. L. ROSENFELD