Number vs. no. vs. # in scientific papers?

Question

This is kinda an extension to: this question.
I am writing a scientific paper and have a numbered list. Now, when I want to refer to that list I want to say something like: "This issue is closely related to item number 12."
As a non-native I'm not sure whether that sounds 'normal' or if it would be easier to read with "no. 12" or "#12" or option number(?) three, just "item 12".

GEdgar · Accepted Answer

Use "Item 2", not "Item number 2" (and not No. or № or #).  Similarly use "Figure 4" not "Figure number 4", and "Paragraph 3" not "Paragraph number 3".

Anton · Answer

In the case of a list of equations or scientific propositions, one convention is to number the list as in the following example:
X + Y = 8     (1)
X = Y         (2)
Z = X.Y       (3)
We find Y by solving (1) and (2). Z may be calculated from (3).

Number vs. no. vs. # in scientific papers?

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