Correctionand Retraction

The journal is committed to maintaining the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of the scholarly record. When errors or concerns affecting a published article are identified, the editorial team will assess the available evidence and determine whether a correction, an expression of concern, or a retraction is necessary. Editorial actions are undertaken to ensure that readers are appropriately informed about the reliability and status of published research.

Correction of Published Articles

A correction may be published when an error in an article requires clarification or amendment but does not invalidate the overall findings or conclusions. The editorial team of the journal will evaluate the nature and significance of the error before deciding on the appropriate action.

Corrections may address issues such as:

• Errors in author names, affiliations, acknowledgements, or other bibliographic information.
• Typographical, formatting, or factual errors that may cause misunderstanding.
• Incorrect figures, tables, data descriptions, or other content requiring clarification.
• Other errors that affect the interpretation or usability of the article but do not warrant retraction.

A published correction should clearly identify the original article, describe the amendment, and be linked to the affected publication whenever technically possible. The original article's publication record should remain traceable.

Retraction of Published Articles

Retraction may be considered when the reliability or integrity of a published article is seriously compromised. The journal may initiate a retraction assessment when credible evidence indicates circumstances such as:

• Fabrication or falsification of research data or results.
• Plagiarism or substantial unattributed duplication.
• Major errors that invalidate the findings or conclusions.
• Unethical research practices or serious violations of research ethics.
• Improper publication practices that materially undermine the integrity of the scholarly record.
• Other substantiated concerns that make the article's findings unreliable.

Retraction is intended to correct the scholarly record, not to punish authors. A retraction decision will be based on the available evidence and the seriousness of the issue, following an appropriate editorial assessment.

Expression of Concern

When credible concerns arise but the available evidence is insufficient to reach a final conclusion, or an investigation remains ongoing, the editorial team of the journal may consider publishing an expression of concern. This notice informs readers that the article is subject to unresolved questions. It may be updated or followed by a correction or retraction when further information becomes available.

Assessment and Decision-Making

Before taking action, the editorial team of the journal will assess the reported concern and review relevant evidence. Depending on the circumstances, the process may include:

• Reviewing the article, supporting materials, and relevant publication records.
• Requesting an explanation or additional documentation from the authors.
• Consulting independent experts or the relevant institution when appropriate.
• Considering responses from the parties involved before reaching a decision, where feasible.
• Documenting the editorial decision and the reasons for the action taken.

The action taken will be proportionate to the nature and severity of the issue. The editorial team will seek to handle each case fairly, impartially, and confidentially to the extent appropriate.

Publication and Preservation of Notices

Any correction, expression of concern, or retraction notice issued by the journal should identify the affected article and explain the reason for the editorial action to the extent appropriate. The notice should be publicly accessible and linked to the original article whenever technically possible. Retracted articles will remain identifiable in the scholarly record, with their retracted status clearly indicated, rather than being silently removed, except where removal is legally required or necessary to address exceptional risks.

Requests and Reporting

Authors, readers, reviewers, and other concerned parties may report errors or concerns regarding articles published in the journal through the journal's official editorial communication channels. Reports should identify the article concerned, explain the issue, and provide supporting evidence where available. All reports will be assessed according to their relevance, credibility, and potential impact on the scholarly record.

The journal applies this policy to safeguard research integrity, maintain transparency, and preserve trust in the published scholarly record.