Authors FAQ

1. Submission & Editorial Manager (EM)

  • How do I submit my manuscript to the journal?

    All submissions must be uploaded through our Editorial Manager® (EM) system. You can find the "Submit Your Paper" link on the journal’s homepage within the Digital Commons platform. You will need to create an account or log in using your ORCID iD.

  • Why was I redirected to Editorial Manager from the journal website?

    Our journal uses Digital Commons for hosting and showcasing published content, while Editorial Manager (EM) by Elsevier is used for the rigorous peer-review workflow. This integration ensures a high-standard editorial process and global visibility.

  • Can I suggest or exclude specific reviewers?

    Yes, during the submission process in EM, you will have the option to suggest "Preferred Reviewers" or request "Non-preferred Reviewers." Please provide a brief justification for any exclusions.

2. Peer Review Process

  • What is the typical timeframe for the review process?

    The journal aims for an initial decision within 4–6 weeks of submission. However, this varies depending on reviewer availability and the complexity of the manuscript.

  • How can I track the status of my submission?

    You can log in to your Editorial Manager dashboard at any time. The status (e.g., "Under Review," "With Editor," or "Decision in Process") is updated in real-time.

3. Open Access & Digital Commons Hosting

  • Is this an Open Access journal?

    Yes, our journals are hosted on the Digital Commons platform, providing immediate Open Access to all published articles. This ensures your research is discoverable by a global audience.

  • Are there any Article Processing Charges (APCs)?

    There are currently no APCs; publication is fully sponsored by the university.

4. Formatting & Technical Requirements

  • What file formats are accepted for submission?

    We primarily accept Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) for the main manuscript. Figures should be uploaded as high-resolution TIFF, JPEG, or EPS files.

  • Does the journal provide a template?

    Yes, a downloadable Microsoft Word Template is available on the "Instructions for Authors" page on the Digital Commons site. We strongly recommend using it to ensure your submission meets our formatting standards.

5. Post-Acceptance & Indexing

  • How long does it take for my article to appear online after acceptance?

    Once accepted and formatted, your article will appear as soon as possible once final corrections are completed.

6. Ethical Considerations

  • What is the journal’s policy on plagiarism?

    All manuscripts are screened using iThenticate (integrated within Editorial Manager). Manuscripts with a high similarity index or evidence of unoriginal content will be rejected immediately.

  • How do I report a conflict of interest?

    Authors are required to declare any financial or personal relationships that could influence their work during the submission step in EM.