Editorial Guidelines
Editors should review the Editors Guidelines for role expectations, peer review standards, and integrity policies.
Workflow Overview
JBMB editors follow a structured workflow from initial screening to final decision. Clear checkpoints help maintain consistency across submissions and protect review quality.
- Initial scope and ethics screening.
- Reviewer invitation and evaluation.
- Decision drafting and revision guidance.
Reviewer Selection Support
- Use subject expertise to match reviewers with manuscript scope.
- Balance clinical and methodological reviewers when possible.
- Check conflicts of interest before confirming reviewers.
Quality Assurance Tools
Editors are encouraged to verify key reporting elements such as ethics approval statements, data availability, and statistical clarity. These checks reduce revision cycles and support transparency.
Data and Image Checks
When applicable, editors may request supporting data or original image files to clarify integrity questions. These requests protect the scientific record and build reader trust.
- Ask for raw data if figures appear inconsistent.
- Confirm that image adjustments are explained and appropriate.
- Ensure that data availability statements match repository links.
Reviewer Database
JBMB maintains reviewer suggestions and subject area lists to help editors locate qualified reviewers quickly. Editors may recommend new reviewers based on recent publications or clinical expertise.
Decision Templates
Decision templates and revision checklists help ensure consistent communication. Editors may request templates from the editorial office.
Policy Updates
Editorial policies evolve with best practices in publishing ethics. The editorial office circulates updates and provides guidance on any new requirements.
Special Issue Management
For editors involved in special issues, JBMB provides call for papers templates, issue planning guidance, and coordination support to keep collections on schedule.
Ethics and Integrity
Editors should reference JBMB editorial policies for guidance on ethics, data transparency, and misconduct handling. For complex cases, contact [email protected].
Training and Support
New editors receive onboarding assistance, and experienced editors can request refresher guidance. The editorial office is available for consultation on reviewer selection, appeals, and policy interpretation. Periodic check ins help address workflow issues, and mentoring is available for complex decisions.
Communication Best Practices
- Provide concise decision summaries alongside reviewer feedback.
- Highlight essential revisions that affect validity or clarity.
- Encourage respectful, constructive reviewer commentary.
Resource Requests
For access to tools, templates, or additional support, contact [email protected] anytime when needed.