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Editorial Process and Peer Review Policy

At Lumina Quest Publishing (LQ Publishing), we uphold a rigorous peer-review process to ensure that all published content adheres to the highest standards of scientific and ethical integrity. Our editorial workflow prioritizes fairness, confidentiality, and timeliness, aiming to guide authors in improving their manuscripts while maintaining the quality of research output.

Steps in the Editorial Process

  1. Initial Screening: Manuscripts undergo an initial screening by the Executive Managing Editor (EME) to assess adherence to LQ Publishing’s editorial policies. The EME evaluates:
    • Whether the manuscript fits within the journal's scope and meets the interests of its readership.
    • The quality of the manuscript and its readiness for review.
    • Clarity of writing and adherence to author guidelines.
    • Ethical compliance, including disclosure of competing interests and adherence to guidelines for studies involving human participants or animals.

    Manuscripts failing these criteria may be declined without external review, or authors may be asked to revise and resubmit.

  2. Peer Review: After initial screening, manuscripts are assigned to:

    • An Editorial Board Member.
    • Two to four peer reviewers who are experts in the field.

    External referees may be consulted for additional expertise. The review process is double-blind, ensuring anonymity for both authors and reviewers.

    Reviewers assess the manuscript for:

    • Scientific merit and originality.
    • Clarity and coherence of the research.
    • Appropriateness of methodology and validity of results.

    Reviewers recommend acceptance, revision, or rejection, but the editor has final decision-making authority.

  3. Decision: The editor communicates one of the following decisions to the author:
    • Acceptance: The manuscript is ready for publication.
    • Minor or Major Revision: Authors must address reviewers’ comments and resubmit within 30 days.
    • Rejection: The manuscript is unsuitable for publication.

    Revised manuscripts may be sent back to reviewers or assessed by the editor alone. LQ Publishing aims to provide an initial decision within three weeks of submission.

  4. Proofreading: Accepted manuscripts undergo proofreading to ensure accuracy in typesetting and formatting. Authors are responsible for:

    • Reviewing proofs for errors in text, tables, and figures.
    • Returning corrections within 48 hours to avoid publication delays.

    Significant changes at this stage require editor approval. If authors do not respond, the article proceeds to publication as is.

  5. Appeals and Complaints:Authors may appeal decisions by emailing the editor with a detailed explanation. Appeals are considered when:

    • Evidence of significant error or bias in the review process is provided.
    • Documented competing interests that compromise objectivity are identified.

    A panel of three editors reviews appeals, and decisions are typically resolved within two weeks. Second appeals are not permitted, and manuscripts under appeal should not be submitted elsewhere.

FAQ for Peer Review Process

  1. How are peer reviewers identified, and who makes the final selection? Manuscripts are sent to two to four independent reviewers chosen by the editorial team. Authors may:

    • Suggest potential reviewers who are experts in the field.
    • Request exclusion of specific individuals or groups.

    While author recommendations are considered, final reviewer selection is made by editors to ensure impartiality. Reviewer selection criteria include:

    • Expertise and familiarity with the subject matter.
    • Proven track record of producing high-quality reviews.
    • Professional reputation and prior reviewing experience.
    • Ability to provide constructive feedback and reasoned judgments.

  2. Who evaluates reviewer reports and makes the final decision? Editors evaluate reviewer comments, assess the manuscript, and consider the strength of arguments presented. Conflicting feedback may result in additional reviews or editor guidance to authors.

  3. Who communicates the decision to the authors? The handling editor directly communicates the decision, providing detailed feedback and next steps.

  4. How is a revised manuscript assessed? Revised manuscripts are assessed through:

    • In-House Review: Minor revisions evaluated by editors.
    • Return to Original Reviewers: Substantial revisions or unresolved concerns reviewed by the original reviewers.
    • Additional Reviewers: New reviewers may be consulted for technical disputes or fresh perspectives.
  5. What is the role of the editorial board in the peer review process? The editorial board oversees the review process, ensures alignment with journal standards, and maintains the integrity of peer review.
  6. Who makes the final decision to accept, revise, or reject a manuscript? The editor handling the manuscript has the final say, based on reviewer feedback and personal expertise, ensuring quality and integrity for readers and the scientific community.