Appeal Policy

The Asian Journal of Medical and Biological Research (AJMBR) is committed to ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in all editorial decisions. Authors who believe that a decision regarding their manuscript (including rejection, correction, or retraction) was made in error may submit a formal appeal. The appeal process is conducted in accordance with the principles and recommendations of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

Grounds for appeal

An appeal may be considered under the following circumstances,

• The author believes that the manuscript was rejected based on a misunderstanding of its scientific content.
• The author identifies factual errors in the reviewer’s comments that significantly affected the editorial decision.
• The author considers that the review process was procedurally flawed or did not follow journal policy.
• The decision relates to alleged research misconduct, and the author wishes to provide clarification, additional documentation, or evidence.
• Appeals must be based on clear, evidence-supported arguments and not solely on disagreement with reviewers’ opinions.

Submission of an appeal

• Appeals must be submitted in writing to the journal’s editorial office through the official contact channel.
• The corresponding author must clearly state the reason for the appeal and provide a detailed, point-by-point response to the issues raised in the decision letter.
• Where relevant, supporting documentation or factual evidence should be included.
• Appeals should be submitted within a reasonable timeframe following the editorial decision.

Editorial review of the appeal

Upon receipt of an appeal,

• The editorial office will acknowledge receipt and conduct an initial assessment to determine whether the appeal meets the criteria for reconsideration.
• The Editor-in-Chief or a designated Editorial Board member will review the appeal independently.
• Where necessary, the manuscript and reviewer reports may be reassessed, and additional expert opinions may be sought.
• The appeal review process is conducted confidentially and objectively to ensure impartial evaluation.

Appeals related to allegations of misconduct

If the appeal concerns a decision involving alleged research misconduct,

• The journal will follow its established Research Misconduct Policy based on COPE guidelines.
• The corresponding author(s) may be asked to provide a detailed explanation with factual statements and supporting evidence.
• The journal may consult independent experts, relevant institutions, or appropriate authorities before reaching a final decision.
• In cases where new and credible evidence is presented, the journal may reconsider its earlier decision. However, if the explanation is unsatisfactory or no response is received within the stipulated timeframe, the original decision (including rejection or retraction) will stand.

Final decision

• The final decision on an appeal rests solely with the Editor-in-Chief.
• The outcome of the appeal may result in:
• Upholding the original decision
• Reconsideration and re-review of the manuscript
• Revision of a correction or retraction notice, where applicable
• The decision following an appeal is final and cannot be further contested within the journal.

Communication of outcome

The corresponding author will be formally informed of the outcome of the appeal once the evaluation is complete. Where appropriate, the complainant (in cases involving misconduct allegations) will also be notified that the matter has been resolved.

Once the decision is communicated, the appeal case will be considered closed.

AJMBR strives to handle all appeals with sensitivity, fairness, and adherence to international ethical standards, ensuring that all parties are treated respectfully and that the integrity of the scientific record is maintained.