• Research Questions: Assess the validity of the research questions posed.
• Sample Size: Evaluate the adequacy of the sample size.
• Ethical Approval: Verify the presence of necessary ethical approval and consent.
• Methods and Design: Judge if methods and study design align with research objectives.
• Experimental Controls: Evaluate the presence of appropriate controls.
• Method Reporting: Check if methods, equipment, and materials are adequately detailed for reproducibility.
• Statistical Tests: Evaluate the appropriateness and accuracy of statistical tests.
• Figures and Tables: Assess clarity and accuracy of visual representations.
• Literature Context: Examine whether previous research is discussed and results are compared.
• Citations: Check for relevant and appropriate citations, avoiding over-referencing to authors' work.
• Results and Conclusions: Determine if results support the conclusions drawn.
• Research Limitations: Ensure acknowledgment of research limitations.
• Abstract Accuracy: Verify if the abstract provides a balanced and accurate summary.
• Language Clarity: Evaluate the clarity and understandability of the language used.

Submit review comments via manuscript tracking system by the agreed deadline. If unable to meet the deadline, contact the editorial office for an alternative arrangement.

Concentrate on objectively critiquing the scientific aspects, including methodology soundness and conclusion support. Your final recommendation will help guide the editorial decision:

• Consider after Minor Revision
• Consider after Major Revision
• Reject with No Resubmission

Note that the Editor-in-Chief ultimately makes the decision.

Though not mandated, the use of reporting guidelines is encouraged. Use relevant guidelines to assess the submission:

• CONSORT: For randomized controlled trials
• TREND: For non-randomized trials
• PRISMA: For systematic reviews and meta-analyses
• CARE: For case reports
• STROBE: For observational studies
• STREGA: For genetic association studies
• SRQR: For qualitative studies
• STARD: For diagnostic accuracy studies
• ARRIVE: For animal experiments

Adhere to the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines. Refer to the COPE Ethical Guidelines for Peer Reviewers for best practices in peer review.

Maintain strict confidentiality for manuscripts under review. Avoid sharing or discussing content outside the peer review process. Consult with colleagues on request while maintaining manuscript confidentiality. Declare any such consultation in the 'Comments to the Editor' section.

Reviewer should decline review request if he/she:

• Recently published or submitted with any author
• Share affiliations with authors
• Collaborate or collaborated recently with author(s)
• Have a close personal connection to the author(s)
• Have a financial interest in the subject
• Feel unable to be objective

Declare remaining interests in the 'Confidential' section of the review form, which the editor will consider. Remember, your review plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and integrity of the journal.