Policy for Handling Cases Requiring Corrections, Retractions, and Editorial Expressions of Concern
1. Corrections:
- Corrections will be considered in cases where errors, inaccuracies, or omissions are identified in published articles that do not invalidate the main findings or conclusions of the research.
- Authors, readers, or other stakeholders are encouraged to notify the journal promptly when potential errors are identified.
- Corrections will be handled in a timely manner, and the corrected version will be clearly labeled and linked to the original article to maintain a transparent record.
2. Retractions:
- Retractions will be considered in cases where published articles contain significant errors, data falsification, plagiarism, unethical research practices, or other serious concerns that invalidate the findings or conclusions of the research.
- Retractions may also be considered when ethical violations or conflicts of interest that undermine the integrity of the research are discovered.
- Retractions will be accompanied by a detailed statement explaining the reasons for the retraction and will be clearly labeled and linked to the original article to ensure transparency.
- In cases of retraction, the journal may contact relevant institutions, organizations, or regulatory bodies, as appropriate, to report the retraction and address any additional concerns.
3. Editorial Expressions of Concern:
- Editorial expressions of concern may be issued when significant concerns about the integrity or validity of a published article arise, but the evidence of misconduct or error is insufficient to warrant immediate retraction.
- Expressions of concern serve to alert readers, researchers, and the scientific community to ongoing investigations or potential issues related to published articles.
- The journal will investigate concerns thoroughly and promptly, seeking input from all relevant parties, including authors, reviewers, and editorial board members, as appropriate.
- If an investigation confirms serious ethical violations or errors, a retraction may be issued. Alternatively, if concerns are resolved and the integrity of the article is confirmed, the expression of concern may be retracted or updated accordingly.
4. Transparency and Communication:
- The journal is committed to transparency and will provide clear and detailed explanations for corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern.
- Corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern will be prominently displayed and linked to the affected articles.
- The journal will communicate the actions taken to relevant parties, including authors, readers, institutions, and other stakeholders, as appropriate.
5. Confidentiality and Whistleblower Protection:
- The journal recognizes the importance of protecting the confidentiality of those who report potential ethical concerns or misconduct.
- Whistleblowers will be treated with respect, and their identities will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law and ethical guidelines.
6. Editorial Responsibility:
- The editorial team will exercise due diligence in investigating and addressing concerns related to published articles, ensuring a fair and unbiased process.
- The editorial team will work closely with authors, reviewers, and the journal’s editorial board to ensure that corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern are handled appropriately and in accordance with established guidelines and best practices.