Reviewer Guidelines
Peer review ensures scientific rigor, accuracy, and originality. Reviewers at JHCR play a critical role in maintaining the integrity and credibility of published research.
Responsibilities of Reviewers
- Provide objective, constructive, and unbiased evaluations of manuscripts.
- Evaluate clarity, originality, and methodological accuracy.
- Avoid personal criticism of authors.
- Ensure timely completion of reviews within assigned deadlines.
- Report suspected ethical breaches or plagiarism to the editor.
Confidentiality
All manuscripts are confidential documents. Reviewers must not disclose, copy, or share any part of the submission with third parties without authorization.
Example: Reviewers must delete or securely store manuscript files after the review process concludes.
Conflict of Interest
Reviewers must immediately disclose any conflicts of interest, whether financial, academic, or personal.
- Do not review manuscripts authored by colleagues, collaborators, or competitors.
- Notify the editor if a conflict exists before accepting a review assignment.
Evaluation Criteria
Reviewers should focus their assessment on the following key criteria:
| Criterion | Description |
|---|---|
| Originality | Assess novelty and contribution to the field. |
| Scientific Accuracy | Evaluate methods, data integrity, and result interpretation. |
| Ethical Compliance | Ensure adherence to human/animal ethics and data protection laws. |
| References | Check relevance and completeness of citations. |
| Presentation | Review clarity, structure, and language quality. |
Structure of a Review Report
Each review should be divided into three sections for clarity:
- Summary: A concise overview of the manuscript’s content and contributions.
- Major Comments: Detailed feedback on methodology, data, and interpretations.
- Minor Comments: Language, style, and formatting suggestions.
Ethical Duties
Reviewers must follow COPE Ethical Guidelines for Peer Reviewers and maintain professional integrity throughout the process.
- Respect confidentiality and anonymity.
- Avoid using unpublished data for personal benefit.
- Report misconduct or data manipulation.
Timeliness and Communication
Reviewers must complete evaluations within the stipulated timeframe (typically 14–21 days). If unable to meet deadlines, reviewers should notify the editorial office promptly.
Detection of Plagiarism or Misconduct
Reviewers should flag any sign of plagiarism, redundant publication, data fabrication, or unethical content. Editors will then follow COPE’s procedure for investigation.
Reviewer Ethics and Accountability
Ethical reviewing strengthens academic integrity and ensures trust between authors, reviewers, and editors. Reviewers are accountable for the fairness and accuracy of their evaluations.
Benefits of Reviewing for JHCR
Reviewers receive acknowledgment in the annual reviewer list, editorial certification, and the opportunity to engage with emerging research trends in hematology and clinical science.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I decline a review assignment?
Yes, if you lack expertise or face time constraints. Inform the editor promptly.
Should I identify myself to authors?
No. JHCR maintains a double-blind review system. Reviewer identities must remain anonymous.
Can I cite the manuscript before publication?
No. It remains confidential until officially published.
Contact Information
Editorial Office – Journal of Hematology and Clinical Research (JHCR)
Heighten Science Publications Inc.
Website: https://www.hematologyresjournal.com/
Email: [email protected]