Allegations of Research Misconduct
All allegations are handled in accordance with COPE flowcharts and guidelines.
Types of Misconduct
Fabrication: Making up data or results. Falsification: Manipulating data or omitting results. Plagiarism: Using others' work without attribution. Duplicate publication: Submitting the same work to multiple journals. Undisclosed conflicts of interest. Improper authorship: Gift authorship, ghost authorship, or omitting legitimate contributors. Ethical violations: Research without required ethical approval.
How to Report
Reports may be submitted by any party to:
Email: [email protected]
Subject: "Research Misconduct Allegation"
Include: specific allegation, evidence, manuscript/article details. Reporter identity will be kept confidential.
Investigation Process
- Acknowledgement within 5 working days;
- Initial assessment by Editor-in-Chief;
- Investigation: corresponding author contacted for response;
- Decision based on evidence;
- Notification of all parties; institutions notified if serious misconduct confirmed.
Possible Outcomes
No action; letter of concern; correction; retraction; notification of institution; reporting to professional bodies.