At our journals, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of publication ethics, guided by the principles set forth by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). These guidelines serve as a robust framework, ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of the research we publish. Let’s delve into the key aspects of our editorial policies:
Plagiarism Detection and Prevention:
We rigorously examine all submissions to identify any instances of plagiarism. Whether intentional or inadvertent, plagiarism undermines the credibility of scholarly work. Our commitment to originality ensures that authors’ contributions are authentic and properly attributed.
Data Fabrication and Falsification:
We take a firm stance against data fabrication and falsification. Authors must present accurate and reliable data. Any manipulation or misrepresentation of research findings is unacceptable. Our thorough peer review process scrutinizes data integrity.
Conflicts of Interest:
Transparency is paramount. Authors are required to disclose any conflicts of interest that could potentially influence their research. This includes financial interests, affiliations, and personal relationships. Our readers deserve full disclosure to assess the validity of the work.
Ethical Treatment of Human and Animal Subjects:
Research involving human participants or animals must adhere to ethical guidelines. We prioritize the protection of participants’ rights, informed consent, and humane treatment of animals. Authors must provide documentation of ethical approval.
Authorship and Contributorship:
Authorship should be based on substantial contributions to the research. We encourage transparency in acknowledging all contributors. Ghostwriting and honorary authorship are discouraged. Our policies promote fairness and recognition.
Peer Review Process:
Rigorous peer review ensures the quality and validity of published work. Our reviewers assess methodology, results, and interpretation. Constructive feedback helps authors improve their manuscripts.
Corrections and Retractions:
If errors are identified post-publication, we promptly address them. Corrections rectify minor mistakes, while retractions occur when serious issues compromise the integrity of the work.
Field-Specific Considerations:
While COPE’s guidelines provide a solid foundation, we recognize that each academic discipline has unique ethical nuances. Therefore, we supplement COPE’s general principles with field-specific policies. This tailored approach ensures that our journals meet the specific needs of researchers in diverse domains.
