Publication ethics for peer reviewers

Peer reviewers are expected to ensure that manuscripts are reviewed accurately on scientific grounds and that objective and fair evaluations are provided. The content of the review must be kept strictly confidential, and authors' research outputs must be respected. Manuscripts with potential conflicts of interest should be avoided.

1. Reviewers should use their professional expertise and competence to evaluate the originality, scientific rigor, and practical value of the manuscript; assess whether the research methodology is appropriate, whether the research design is reasonable, and whether the results and conclusions are accurate, as well as whether there are any issues related to confidentiality. Fair and impartial comments should be provided to assist editors in making publication decisions. Detailed revision suggestions should be offered to help authors improve the quality of their manuscripts.

2. Manuscripts should be evaluated solely on academic merit, without any personal judgment or personal attacks. Decisions regarding acceptance or rejection must not be influenced by the author's race, gender, religion, belief, social status, seniority, or authority. Opinions should be supported with sufficient evidence and clearly stated facts.

3. Review results should be completed and submitted to the editorial office within the specified time frame. If a reviewer is unable to complete the review on time, the situation should be communicated and the manuscript should be returned.

4. Manuscripts under review must be kept strictly confidential. They should not be shared, discussed with others, or used for personal research or publication. Any use of data, ideas, or conclusions from the manuscript requires the author's permission.

5. All cited reports and evidence in prior research must clearly indicate their sources. Reviewers should also verify that authors have not failed to cite relevant published work, and should point out any similarities or overlaps between the submitted manuscript and previously published papers or data based on their knowledge.

6.  All review comments and related information must remain confidential and must not be used for personal purposes. Reviewers must not evaluate manuscripts that involve conflicts of interest arising from competition or collaboration with the authors, their institutions, or affiliated organizations.