Correction and Retraction

The journal is committed to maintaining the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of the scholarly record. When errors, inaccuracies, or concerns affecting a published article are identified, the editorial team will assess the available evidence and determine the appropriate course of action.

Corrections

A correction may be issued when an error in a published article requires amendment but does not invalidate the overall reliability of the research. The correction notice will clearly identify the affected article, describe the error and the amendment, and explain any relevant implications for the interpretation of the findings.

Expressions of Concern

An expression of concern may be published when credible indications of a serious problem exist but the investigation remains incomplete or the available evidence is insufficient for a definitive decision. The notice will explain the nature of the concern to the extent possible without compromising a legitimate ongoing investigation.

Retractions

A retraction may be issued when there is clear evidence that the findings or conclusions of an article are substantially unreliable, or when serious ethical violations undermine the integrity of the publication. Grounds for retraction may include major errors, data fabrication or falsification, plagiarism, unethical research practices, or other significant breaches of publication ethics.

Editorial Assessment and Decision-Making

Decisions regarding corrections, expressions of concern, and retractions are made by the editor based on the available evidence, relevant explanations from the parties concerned, and applicable publication ethics guidance. The journal may consult independent experts, authors’ institutions, or other appropriate authorities when necessary.

Publication and Linking of Notices

All correction, expression-of-concern, and retraction notices must be clearly identified, publicly accessible, and linked to the original article. Notices should provide sufficient information to explain the reason for the editorial action and identify the affected publication.

Retracted articles will ordinarily remain accessible as part of the scholarly record, with a clear and prominent retraction notice. The journal will update the article’s metadata and DOI-related records where applicable and technically possible.

The journal will not remove, correct, or retract an article solely because its findings are controversial or subject to legitimate academic criticism. All actions must be proportionate to the evidence and intended to protect the reliability of the scholarly record.