Regulatory Science & Compliance

Authors may appeal editorial decisions if they believe: • The decision was based on a misunderstanding of the manuscript • Reviewer comments contain factual errors • The review process was not followed properly • There was bias in the evaluation Appeals should be submitted within 30 days of the decision. How to Submit an Appeal: 1. Email the editorial office with "APPEAL" in the subject line 2. Include the manuscript ID and title 3. Provide a detailed explanation of why you disagree with the decision 4. Address specific points from reviewer comments 5. Include any new information or clarifications What NOT to include: • Personal attacks on editors or reviewers • Requests to expedite processing • Threats or demands

Appeals are reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief or a designated senior editor who was not involved in the original decision. Possible outcomes: • Upheld: The original decision stands • New review: The manuscript is sent for additional peer review • Reconsidered: Authors may be invited to resubmit or revise Appeal decisions are final. We typically respond to appeals within 2-4 weeks.

We take all complaints seriously. Common complaint types include: • Delayed review or response times • Unprofessional behavior by editors or reviewers • Concerns about editorial bias • Issues with the publication process • Technical problems with submissions • Concerns about published content How to File a Complaint: 1. Email complaints@xpertia.org with "COMPLAINT" in the subject 2. Describe the issue clearly and factually 3. Include relevant dates, manuscript IDs, and correspondence 4. Explain what resolution you are seeking All complaints are logged and reviewed by senior management.

Our commitment to timely resolution: • Acknowledgment: Within 3 business days • Initial response: Within 2 weeks • Resolution: Within 4-6 weeks (complex cases may take longer) We will keep you informed of progress and explain any delays.

If you are not satisfied with our response, you may escalate: Level 1: Editorial Office Level 2: Editor-in-Chief Level 3: Publisher (Xpertia Publishing) Level 4: External bodies (COPE, DOAJ) Each level should be given reasonable time to respond before escalating. External Bodies: If you believe your complaint has not been handled appropriately, you may contact: • COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) - publicationethics.org/contact-us • DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals) - For journals listed in DOAJ