An example is given of the cost structure of an international scientific journal. The effects which some important factors have on the journal's subscription price are indicated. These include publication by a commercial publishing house or learned society, circulation numbers, journal format, and page charges.

Some general rules are given that may be followed in the editorial policy concerning the publication of book reviews in primary scientific and technological journals and the writing of such reviews.

Data from two widely different fields (the study of classical antiquity and the science of palynology) indicate that international political developments had a great influence on the issued numbers of scholarly publications and the distribution of these publications over various languages. When the national languages took over the position formerly occupied by Latin, the German language seemed to rank as the most prominent in international intercommunication. However, the two world wars in particular have undermined this position, and English has taken its place. Some data are presented which indicate this historical pathway.

Several primary journals in science and technology additionally contain news items, announcements, and related matters. A brief description is given of this category of papers and some general recommendations are made about their presentation. The inclusion of such information in primary journals should preferably remain limited in order not to affect the character of these journals.