The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology (IJCEO) applies a rigorous double-blind peer review process to maintain the integrity, quality, and transparency of scholarly publishing. The policy is designed to ensure fairness, impartiality, and adherence to international standards, including COPE and ICMJE guidelines.

Peer Review Model

IJCEO employs a double-blind review system:

• Authors’ identities are concealed from reviewers.
• Reviewers’ identities are concealed from authors.
• Decisions are based solely on scientific merit and relevance.

Stages of Peer Review

1. Initial Editorial Screening: Submissions are assessed for scope, originality, and compliance with author guidelines.
2. Reviewer Assignment: Manuscripts are assigned to at least two independent experts with subject-specific expertise.
3. Reviewer Evaluation: Reviewers assess originality, methodology, clarity, ethical compliance, and relevance.
4. Editorial Decision: Based on reviewers’ comments, decisions may include acceptance, minor revision, major revision, or rejection.
5. Final Approval: The Editor-in-Chief makes the final decision, ensuring consistency and integrity.

Reviewer Responsibilities

Author Responsibilities During Peer Review

• Ensure manuscripts meet ethical and submission standards.
• Respond to reviewer comments promptly and thoroughly.
• Submit revised versions with detailed responses to reviewer feedback.

Transparency and Timelines

IJCEO is committed to transparency in editorial decision-making:

• Average Review Time: Initial decision within 3–4 weeks.
• Revisions: Authors typically receive 2–3 weeks for revisions.
• Final Acceptance: Accepted articles are published online within 2–3 weeks post-acceptance.

Confidentiality

All manuscripts, reviewer reports, and editorial decisions are treated as confidential. No information is shared outside the review process without the explicit consent of authors and reviewers.

Ethical Standards in Peer Review

• Reviewers must not use unpublished data for personal benefit.
• Editors ensure that no reviewer is assigned to a manuscript where a conflict of interest exists.
• Allegations of reviewer misconduct are investigated in accordance with COPE guidelines.

Appeals Process

Authors may appeal editorial decisions by submitting a reasoned response with supporting evidence. Appeals are reviewed by an independent editorial board member or an external expert.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many reviewers evaluate each manuscript?

At least two independent reviewers are assigned to each manuscript.

Can authors suggest reviewers?

Yes. Authors may suggest potential reviewers during submission. However, the final decision rests with the editorial team.

Are review reports published?

No. Review reports remain confidential, but IJCEO promotes transparency by publishing acknowledgments of reviewers annually.

How are conflicts of interest handled?

All reviewers and editors must disclose conflicts. Manuscripts with conflicts are reassigned to ensure impartiality.