Reviewer Policies
1. Reviewer Guidelines
Our journal relies on expert reviewers to ensure the quality and integrity of published research. As a reviewer, you play an essential role in maintaining the academic rigor of the journal. Reviewers are expected to:
- Provide Constructive Feedback: Reviewers should offer detailed and constructive comments on the manuscript's strengths and weaknesses. This includes evaluating the research design, methodology, data analysis, and overall contribution to the field.
- Maintain Objectivity: Reviewers must provide unbiased feedback, regardless of personal interests or relationships with the author(s).
- Respect Confidentiality: Manuscripts under review must be treated confidentially. Reviewers should not disclose any details or use the manuscript’s content for personal gain.
- Provide Timely Reviews: Reviewers are expected to complete their reviews within the agreed timeline. If an extension is required, reviewers should notify the editorial office in advance.
- Avoid Conflicts of Interest: Reviewers should notify the editorial office if they feel any conflicts of interest may affect their ability to review the manuscript objectively (see Conflict of Interest section below).
By adhering to these guidelines, reviewers contribute to the integrity of the peer review process and the overall quality of the journal.
2. Conflict of Interest and Financial Disclosures (Reviewers)
To ensure transparency and impartiality in the review process, we require all reviewers to disclose any potential conflicts of interest prior to accepting a manuscript review request. A conflict of interest may arise if:
- The reviewer has a personal or professional relationship with any of the authors.
- The reviewer has financial interests related to the research topic or results of the manuscript.
- The reviewer has had a direct involvement in the research or has an active ongoing research project in a similar area.
- The reviewer holds any bias that could affect their impartiality in reviewing the manuscript.
If any of the above applies, reviewers must notify the editorial office immediately. If a conflict of interest is identified, the reviewer may be excused from reviewing that particular manuscript to maintain the integrity of the peer review process.
In addition, reviewers are required to complete a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form before agreeing to review any manuscript. This form helps us assess whether any disclosed conflicts could potentially affect the impartiality of the review process.