Retraction and Correction Policy

The journal is committed to maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the scholarly record. When errors or ethical concerns are identified in published articles, appropriate action will be taken in accordance with best practices in scholarly publishing and the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

1. Correction
A correction (erratum or corrigendum) may be issued when:

- Minor errors are identified that do not affect the overall validity of the research findings.
- Author information, affiliations, or acknowledgements require correction.
- Typographical or formatting errors are identified that may potentially cause misunderstanding.

Corrections will be clearly linked to the original article and will explain the nature of the changes made. The corrected version of the article will be updated while preserving the original publication record.

2. Retraction

A retraction may be issued when:
- There is clear evidence of plagiarism, data fabrication, or data falsification.
- Research findings are proven to be unreliable due to major errors or ethical violations.
- The article has been published elsewhere without appropriate disclosure (duplicate publication).
- Unethical research practices are identified.

A retraction notice will:
- Be clearly identified as a retraction.
- Remain permanently linked to the retracted article.
- Clearly explain the reason(s) for the retraction.
- Be freely accessible to readers.

The original article will not be removed but will be clearly marked as a retracted article in order to preserve the integrity of the scholarly record.

3. Expression of Concern

An Expression of Concern may be issued when:
- There is inconclusive evidence regarding suspected research or publication misconduct.
- An investigation is still ongoing and a final decision has not yet been reached.

An Expression of Concern is intended to inform readers about potential issues while the investigation is in progress.

4. Withdrawal of Manuscripts Before Publication

Authors may request the withdrawal of a manuscript before publication. However, a withdrawal request submitted after the peer review or production process has progressed substantially may require a formal explanation and approval from the editor.

5. Investigation Procedure

When potential ethical concerns are identified:
- The editorial team will conduct an initial assessment.
- Authors may be asked to provide clarification or supporting documentation.
- External experts or the author's affiliated institution may be consulted when necessary.
- A final decision will be made based on the available evidence and applicable publication ethics guidelines.

All cases will be handled confidentially, fairly, and in accordance with COPE guidelines.

6. Transparency

All corrections, retractions, and Expressions of Concern will be published in a timely and transparent manner to maintain trust in the integrity of the scholarly record.