Complaints and appeals

1. Introduction
   The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics aims to ensure a high-quality, transparent, and fair publishing process for authors, reviewers, and readers. We understand that concerns or disagreements may arise from time to time. This policy outlines the procedures for filing and addressing complaints related to the journal’s processes, policies, or staff behavior, as well as the procedure for authors wishing to appeal editorial decisions regarding their manuscripts. The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics seeks to handle all complaints and appeals constructively, impartially, and promptly, following the recommendations of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

2. Description
   This policy distinguishes between "complaints" and "appeals":

• Complaint: An expression of dissatisfaction by any person or group regarding any aspect of the Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics's policies, procedures, editorial practices, actions of its staff or editorial board, or published materials (except when the issue pertains to the scientific validity of a rejected manuscript, which is generally grounds for an appeal). This may include, but is not limited to, the following issues:

  • Unjustified delays in manuscript processing or publication.

  • Behavior of editors or staff at the Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics.

  • Problems with the journal's systems or processes.

  • Concerns about adherence to the journal’s stated policies (excluding appeals against editorial decisions).

  • Allegations concerning the integrity and fairness of the journal itself.

• Appeal: An official request by the author(s) to the Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics to reconsider an editorial decision made regarding a submitted manuscript, typically a decision of rejection.
  This policy aims to ensure a clear process for submitting such concerns. Issues related to violations of ethical standards in research or publications (e.g., plagiarism, data fabrication) are addressed according to the Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics's Policy on Misconduct Allegations, though a complaint may be filed regarding how such allegations were handled.

3. Policy

• Commitment to a Fair Process: The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics is committed to maintaining a fair, transparent, and consistent process for investigating and resolving all complaints and appeals.

• Confidentiality: All complaints and appeals will be handled with due confidentiality. Information will only be provided to those directly involved in the investigation and resolution process. The identities of complainants or appellants will be protected where possible and appropriate.

• Timeliness: The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics will promptly acknowledge the receipt of all complaints and appeals (usually within 5–7 working days). We aim to investigate and resolve issues within reasonable timeframes, keeping the complainant informed of any significant delays.

• Constructive Interaction: We approach complaints and appeals constructively. We view them as an opportunity to resolve issues and, if necessary, to improve the journal's policies, procedures, and overall service to the scientific community.

• No Retaliation: The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics guarantees that no individual will face adverse actions or retaliation for submitting a complaint or appeal in good faith.

• Grounds for Appeal: Appeals against editorial decisions will be considered primarily if the author can provide clear evidence of:

  • A significant misunderstanding or factual error by reviewers or editors that directly affected the decision.

  • New substantial evidence or data that were not available during the initial review and that directly pertain to the key issues raised, which may alter the manuscript’s evaluation.

  • An evidently incorrect or biased review process. Appeals based solely on a scientific opinion that differs from the reviewers’ or editors' opinions will generally not be accepted.

• Frivolous or Vexatious Claims: The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics reserves the right to reject complaints or appeals that are deemed unfounded, vexatious, repetitive, or outside the scope of this policy.

4. Technical Aspects of Implementing and Materializing the Policy
   A. Procedure for Handling Complaints (related to journal policy, procedures, editorial behavior, or staff)

5. Filing a Complaint:

• Complaints should be submitted in writing to the editor-in-chief of the Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics. Contact information is available on the journal's website.

• The complaint should clearly outline the nature of the issue(s), including specific details such as dates, names of involved individuals (if applicable), manuscript ID (if applicable), and any supporting documents or evidence.

2. Acknowledgment:

• The editor-in-chief or authorized representative will acknowledge receipt of the complaint.

3. Investigation:

• The editor-in-chief will investigate the complaint thoroughly. This may involve reviewing correspondence, consulting with editorial board members, staff, and other relevant parties.

• The complainant may be contacted for additional information or clarification. The investigation will be conducted impartially.

4. Resolution and Response:

• After completing the investigation, the editor-in-chief will provide a written response to the complainant. The response will briefly outline the findings of the investigation and describe any actions taken or proposed by the Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics to address the complaint.

• Possible outcomes may range from an explanation or apology to a commitment to review or revise relevant policies or procedures. If the complaint is deemed unfounded, this will also be communicated.

5. Escalation:

• If the complainant is not satisfied with the response from the editor-in-chief, they may escalate the matter to the publisher (I-EDU GROUP LLC) for further consideration.

• The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics will also consider COPE guidelines in cases of complex or unresolved complaints related to publication ethics. While COPE does not arbitrate specific disputes, its guidance may be helpful for the journal’s actions.

B. Procedure for Handling Appeals (against editorial decisions on manuscripts)

1. Filing an Appeal:

• Authors wishing to appeal an editorial decision regarding their manuscript must do so in writing to the editor-in-chief.

• The appeal must be submitted by the corresponding author within 30 days of receiving the editorial decision.

• The appeal letter should clearly outline the grounds for the appeal and provide a detailed, point-by-point rebuttal of the editor’s and reviewers’ comments that led to the decision being appealed. It should highlight any identified errors, misunderstandings, or evidence of process violations.

• A revised manuscript should not be submitted along with the appeal unless explicitly invited for resubmission with the possibility of an appeal.

2. Evaluation of the Appeal:

• The editor-in-chief will initially evaluate the appeal to determine if it meets the legitimate grounds for appeal outlined in Section 3 of this policy.

• If the appeal lacks sufficient grounds (e.g., it is merely a disagreement with scientific judgment), it may be rejected at this stage.

3. Appeal Investigation:

• If the appeal is deemed valid, the editor-in-chief will re-evaluate the manuscript. This process may include:

  • Re-assessing the original manuscript, reviewers’ reports, and the authors’ rebuttals.

  • Seeking additional consultation from the editor or reviewers who made the original decision (if appropriate and their anonymity can be preserved).

  • Consulting with another member of the editorial board or an independent external expert who was not involved in the original decision-making process.

4. Decision on the Appeal:

• The final decision on the appeal will be made by the editor-in-chief. This decision is final.

• The corresponding author will be notified in writing of the outcome of the appeal, with a clear explanation of the decision.

• The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics typically considers only one appeal per manuscript.

5. Possible Outcomes of an Appeal:

• The original editorial decision remains unchanged.

• The manuscript is invited for a new round of review (possibly with new reviewers).

• The original decision is overturned, and the manuscript is returned to the editorial process (e.g., accepted for review or accepted with minor revisions). This outcome is rare and typically arises after discovering a significant flaw in the original review process.

• The manuscript is still rejected, but for other or unspecified reasons.

C. Record-Keeping
The Uzbek Journal of Modern Physics will maintain confidential records of all received complaints and appeals, including related correspondence, investigations, and their outcomes. These records will be used to monitor and improve the journal's processes.
This policy will be periodically reviewed and may be updated based on the latest best practices and COPE recommendations.