Policy Statement

The journal takes all allegations of research misconduct seriously and is committed to addressing them fairly, confidentially, and promptly. This policy follows COPE guidelines and applies to manuscripts under review and articles that have already been published.

Identification and Prevention

Preventive measures include editorial screening, similarity checking, and ethical evaluation. The journal, editors, and reviewers do not knowingly permit, encourage, or conceal research misconduct.

Scope of Allegations

Research and publication misconduct includes, but is not limited to:

• Plagiarism and duplicate publication.
• Data fabrication or falsification.
• Citation manipulation and undisclosed conflicts of interest.
• Unethical research practices or violations of authorship standards.
• Manipulation of the peer-review or editorial process.

Reporting and Initial Assessment

Allegations should be submitted in writing to the Editor-in-Chief or Editorial Office. Complaints should include sufficient information and supporting evidence to allow an initial assessment. Credible anonymous complaints may also be considered.

The Editor-in-Chief or an appointed editor will conduct an initial assessment while maintaining appropriate confidentiality and avoiding conflicts of interest.

Investigation and Outcomes

Individuals whose work is the subject of an allegation will be informed and given a reasonable opportunity to respond. Depending on the evidence and stage of publication, possible outcomes may include:

• Rejection of the submitted manuscript.
• A request for clarification or correction.
• Publication of a correction, retraction, or expression of concern.
• Notification of the author’s affiliated institution or another relevant authority.
• Restrictions on future submissions where serious misconduct has been established.

Communication and Closure

Authors, complainants, and other relevant parties will be formally notified of the final editorial decision when appropriate. A case is considered closed after all required editorial actions have been completed and the supporting records have been securely documented.