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

  1. Acknowledgement within 5 working days;
  2. Initial assessment by Editor-in-Chief;
  3. Investigation: corresponding author contacted for response;
  4. Decision based on evidence;
  5. 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.