Reviewer's Responsibilities
Peer reviewers play a vital role in preserving the quality and credibility of research published by the Journal of Hematology and Clinical Research (JHCR). Their evaluations help editors make informed decisions and guide authors in improving their manuscripts.
Objectivity and Fairness
Reviewers must provide unbiased and objective assessments based solely on the academic merit of the work. Personal criticism of authors is strictly prohibited.
Example: Feedback should focus on data quality, study design, and clarity rather than personal attributes or institutional affiliation.
Confidentiality
All submitted manuscripts and related communications are confidential. Reviewers must not share, discuss, or use any part of a manuscript before its official publication.
- Do not retain copies of manuscripts after review completion.
- Do not use unpublished data for personal or research purposes.
- Report confidentiality breaches to the editorial office immediately.
Ethical Conduct and COPE Alignment
Reviewers are expected to adhere to the COPE Ethical Guidelines for Peer Reviewers. They must notify the editor if they encounter any form of research misconduct, such as data fabrication, plagiarism, or unethical experimentation.
Conflicts of Interest
Reviewers must disclose any potential conflict of interest that could bias their judgment. These may include personal, professional, or financial relationships with the authors or institutions.
Responsiveness and Timeliness
Timely submission of reviews ensures a smooth editorial workflow. If a reviewer is unable to complete a review within the stipulated period, they must inform the editorial office promptly to reassign the task.
Constructive Feedback
Reviews should offer balanced and actionable feedback to help authors enhance their work. Comments should identify strengths, weaknesses, and suggestions for improvement.
- Provide evidence-based criticism and cite relevant literature.
- Be respectful and professional in tone.
- Avoid vague statements; offer specific examples.
Detection of Plagiarism and Misconduct
Reviewers are encouraged to use plagiarism detection tools or cross-check references if they suspect overlap with published works. Such concerns must be reported confidentially to the Editor-in-Chief.
Ethical Research Evaluation
Reviewers must verify that studies involving human or animal participants include proper ethical approval statements. If such approvals are missing, reviewers should flag the issue to the editorial team.
Reviewer Anonymity
JHCR operates under a double-blind review system. Reviewer identities are not disclosed to authors, and vice versa, to maintain fairness and avoid bias.
Collaboration with Editors
Reviewers should cooperate with editors to ensure clarity in recommendations and assist in resolving discrepancies in assessments.
Accountability
Each reviewer’s feedback directly contributes to the journal’s quality standards. Reviewers are accountable for ensuring their evaluations are detailed, evidence-based, and aligned with the journal’s ethical expectations.
Recognition and Certification
JHCR recognizes reviewers’ efforts through annual acknowledgments, reviewer certificates, and public listings (subject to reviewer consent).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a reviewer recommend citations to their own work?
Only if those citations are directly relevant and enhance the manuscript’s quality. Self-citation should not be excessive.
What should reviewers do if they suspect data manipulation?
Notify the editor confidentially with detailed evidence or specific examples. The editor will follow COPE protocols.
Are reviewers allowed to discuss the paper post-review?
No. Discussion about manuscripts should only occur within the review system or with journal editors.
Contact Information
Editorial Office – Journal of Hematology and Clinical Research (JHCR)
Heighten Science Publications Inc.
Website: https://www.hematologyresjournal.com/
Email: [email protected]