Corrections, retractions, complaints, and appeals

Updating the scholarly record

Minor corrections, errata, author or editorial corrections, retractions, exceptional removals, and expressions of concern are handled transparently. Any post-publication change must state its date and reason, preserve the record, link related notices, and update metadata where appropriate.

Files are not silently replaced. Retracted articles remain identifiable and clearly marked unless legal restrictions or serious risks require another measure.

Retraction and expression of concern

Retraction may be considered for unreliable findings caused by error or misconduct, plagiarism, redundant publication, unethical research, or substantial manipulation. An expression of concern may be used while a relevant investigation remains unresolved.

Complaints

Anyone may submit a complaint to the official email, identifying the record or publication, facts, evidence, and expected outcome. Receipt is acknowledged, conflicts are checked, and a competent person is assigned. Response times depend on complexity.

Appeals

An appeal must be based on a procedural error or verifiable scientific arguments, not merely disagreement with the decision. It is reviewed by an uninvolved person where feasible, and the outcome is communicated in writing. An appeal does not guarantee a different decision.