Last Updated: December 10, 2024

To establish a transparent, fair, and efficient process for handling appeals against editorial decisions, ensuring compliance with COPE guidelines and maintaining the journal’s integrity.

This process applies to:
– Rejected manuscripts
– Ethical misconduct decisions
– Retraction or correction notices
– Other editorial decisions

1. Eligibility
A. Who Can Appeal:
– Corresponding authors
– Co-authors with consent from the corresponding author

B. Grounds for Appeal:
– Perceived errors in the review process
– Allegations of bias or conflict of interest
– Disagreement with ethical misconduct findings

2. Submission of Appeals
A. Required Documentation:
– Formal appeal letter
– Detailed explanation of the grounds for appeal
– Supporting evidence (e.g., reviewer comments, data)
– Signed consent from all authors

B. Submission Process:
– Submit appeals via email to appeals@ajbm.net
– Use the subject line: “Appeal Submission: [Manuscript ID]”
– Acknowledge receipt within 5 business days

3. Initial Assessment
A. Screening:
– Appeals reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief
– Determine if the appeal meets eligibility criteria
– Assess completeness of documentation

4. Decision:
– Eligible appeals proceed to the review stage
– Ineligible appeals dismissed with explanation

5. Review Process
A. Formation of Appeals Committee:
– Include the Editor-in-Chief, an independent expert, and a legal advisor
– Ensure no conflicts of interest

B. Evidence Review:
– Reassess reviewer comments and editorial decisions
– Consult additional experts if needed
– Review supporting evidence provided by the appellant

C. Decision Making:
– Committee deliberates and reaches a consensus
– Document the rationale for the decision

6. Resolution
A. Possible Outcomes:
– Uphold the original decision
– Overturn the decision and accept the manuscript
– Recommend further revisions
– Modify ethical misconduct findings

B. Communication:
– Notify the appellant of the decision within 30 days
– Provide a detailed explanation of the rationale
– Maintain confidentiality throughout the process

7. Appeals Tracking
– Assign a unique case ID to each appeal
– Maintain detailed records of all appeals
– Store records securely for at least 5 years
– Use records for periodic policy reviews

8. Monitoring and Evaluation
– Conduct annual reviews of appeals cases
– Update procedures based on feedback and outcomes
– Provide training for editors and staff on appeals handling