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September 11, 2003

Dear Sir,

I believe that online Open Access journals make a real contribution to the global communication of scientific ideas. Knowledge isn't merchandise - it is the property of the scientific community. I am an old-fashioned research scientist. I had the opportunity to obtain two doctoral degrees in Europe, but all my research work has been carried out in the Third World. The point is that the only opportunity to work in the Third World is via international collaboration, not so much for the creativity or experience, but for the resources it brings. International collaboration is particularly important for access to the expensively priced bibliography. I have had to make enormous efforts to obtain some papers and often without success. I personally think that the opportunity to develop Open Access is one way to create a better world. The situation in the underdeveloped countries needs a new deal. Only the scientific community can aid the development in our countries.

Sincerely,

Pedro C. Hidalgo

Banco Nacional de Organos y Tejidos, Hospital de Clinicas
"Dr. Manuel Quintela"
Montevideo, Uruguay