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Neurosurgery, Neurology & Psychiatry

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Review Policy | ZJNNP

Review Policy

Learn about our rigorous peer review process that ensures the highest quality publications in neurosurgery, neurology, and psychiatry

Our Peer Review Process

ZJNNP employs a rigorous double-blind peer review system to ensure the publication of high-quality, impactful research that advances neuroscience in Africa and beyond.

1

Submission

Authors submit manuscripts through our online system, which are then screened for completeness and adherence to journal guidelines.

2

Initial Screening

The editorial team conducts an initial assessment for scope, originality, and basic quality standards before sending for peer review.

3

Peer Review

Qualified experts in the field evaluate the manuscript for scientific validity, methodology, significance, and clarity.

4

Editor Decision

The editor evaluates reviewer comments and makes a final decision: accept, minor revision, major revision, or reject.

5

Revision

Authors revise their manuscript based on reviewer feedback and submit a point-by-point response to all comments.

6

Final Acceptance

The revised manuscript is evaluated, and if satisfactory, accepted for publication. It then moves to production.

Detailed Review Policy

Double-Blind Review Process

ZJNNP employs a double-blind peer review system where both the reviewers and authors are anonymized. This approach minimizes potential bias and ensures that manuscripts are evaluated solely on their scientific merit.

Note: Reviewers are asked to declare any conflicts of interest before accepting a review assignment. If a conflict is identified, the reviewer will be replaced to maintain the integrity of the process.

Reviewer Selection

Reviewers are selected based on their expertise in the relevant field, publication history, and previous review quality. Our editorial board maintains a database of qualified reviewers, and we continually seek new experts to join our reviewer pool.

Criteria for reviewer selection include:

  • Expertise in the manuscript's subject area
  • Academic qualifications and research experience
  • Previous publication record in reputable journals
  • Geographic diversity to ensure global perspectives
  • Timeliness and quality of previous reviews (for returning reviewers)

Review Criteria

Reviewers evaluate manuscripts based on the following criteria:

Originality and Significance

Does the manuscript present novel findings? Is the research question important and relevant to the field?

Methodological Rigor

Is the study design appropriate? Are the methods clearly described and statistically sound?

Results and Interpretation

Are the results clearly presented? Are conclusions supported by the data?

Clarity and Organization

Is the manuscript well-written and logically organized? Are figures and tables appropriate?

References

Are citations appropriate and current? Is prior research adequately acknowledged?

Review Timeline

We strive to complete the initial review within 4-6 weeks of submission. The typical timeline is as follows:

  • Initial screening: 3-5 business days
  • Reviewer assignment: 1-2 weeks
  • Review period: 3-4 weeks
  • Editor decision: 1 week after reviews completed

Authors will receive notification if the process takes longer than expected. Revised manuscripts are typically re-evaluated within 2-3 weeks.

Ethical Considerations

ZJNNP adheres to the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines and expects all participants in the review process to maintain the highest ethical standards.

Ethical Guidelines for Reviewers

Confidentiality

Reviewers must treat manuscripts as confidential documents and not share or discuss them with others unless authorized by the editor.

Objectivity

Reviews should be conducted objectively without personal criticism of the authors. judgments should be supported by arguments.

Timeliness

Reviewers who feel unqualified to review a manuscript or cannot meet the deadline should promptly notify the editor.

Conflict of Interest

Reviewers should disclose any conflicts of interest that could bias their opinions and recuse themselves when necessary.

Become a Reviewer

ZJNNP is always seeking qualified reviewers to join our panel. Reviewing for ZJNNP offers several benefits:

  • Early access to cutting-edge research in your field
  • Opportunity to shape the direction of neuroscience research in Africa
  • Certificate of recognition for your reviewing contributions
  • Potential invitation to join our editorial board based on review quality
  • Discounts on publication fees for your own submissions

To express interest in becoming a reviewer, please send your CV and areas of expertise to editor@zjnnp.org.zm with the subject line "Reviewer Application".

Early-career researchers: We encourage applications from postdoctoral researchers and early-career faculty who have recently published in reputable journals. Mentorship opportunities are available for those new to the peer review process.

Questions About Our Review Policy?

If you have any questions about our review process or need clarification on any aspect of our policy, please don't hesitate to contact our editorial office.

Contact Editorial Office
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