Complaints and Appeals

Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine (CSMM) is committed to handling complaints and appeals fairly, transparently, and promptly, in accordance with COPE's guidance on complaints and appeals.

Appeals of Editorial Decisions

Authors who disagree with an editorial decision (e.g., rejection) may submit a formal appeal to the editorial office, stating the manuscript ID and a clear, reasoned justification for why the decision should be reconsidered — such as a factual error, a procedural concern with the review process, or evidence that relevant information was overlooked. General disagreement with a reviewer's assessment alone is not sufficient grounds for appeal.

Appeals are reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief, who may consult with an independent member of the editorial board not previously involved in the manuscript's review. Authors are notified of the outcome in writing, with reasoning provided. The decision following an appeal is final.

Complaints Regarding Editorial or Peer Review Conduct

Authors, reviewers, or readers who have a concern about the conduct of an editor, reviewer, or the editorial process itself may submit a complaint in writing to the editorial office. Complaints are investigated by the Editor-in-Chief; where the complaint concerns the Editor-in-Chief directly, the matter is referred to another senior editorial board member for independent review.

Complaints Regarding Publication Ethics

Concerns regarding suspected research or publication misconduct — plagiarism, data fabrication, undisclosed conflicts of interest, etc. — are handled under the journal's Publication Ethics and Malpractice Statement, rather than through the appeals process above.

Response Time

CSMM aims to acknowledge all complaints and appeals within 2 weeks, and to provide a substantive response or resolution within a reasonable further period depending on the complexity of the matter.

Confidentiality

All complaints and appeals are handled confidentially, with information shared only with those directly involved in resolving the matter.