Confidentiality

 

All manuscripts submitted for peer review are treated as confidential documents. Reviewers must protect the confidentiality of the manuscript, author information, reviewer comments, editorial correspondence, and any unpublished information obtained through the review process.

Confidentiality Requirements
  • Do not share the manuscript with unauthorized individuals.
  • Do not discuss the manuscript with colleagues, students, authors, or other third parties without authorization.
  • Do not disclose the identity of the authors or other reviewers where the review model requires confidentiality.
  • Do not reproduce or distribute substantial portions of the manuscript.
  • Do not use unpublished data, methods, ideas, findings, or information for personal or professional benefit.
  • Do not use manuscript information to advance the reviewer's own research before the information becomes publicly available.
  • Do not contact authors directly regarding the manuscript unless instructed by the Editorial Office.
  • Keep review files and editorial communications secure.
Continuing Obligation

The obligation of confidentiality continues after the review has been completed and after an editorial decision has been made. Reviewers should not disclose confidential information even if the manuscript is rejected, withdrawn, or published.