Publication Ethics

Principles of conduct for authors, reviewers and the editorial team.

Originality

The article must be the original work of the authors. Use of others’ works, data, ideas and text must be accompanied by accurate citation.

Simultaneous publication

A manuscript must not be submitted simultaneously to more than one journal. Duplicate or overlapping publication must be transparently disclosed.

Authorship

Authors must be determined on the basis of genuine scholarly contribution, and all authors must accept responsibility for the content of the article.

Conflicts of interest

Authors, reviewers and editorial members must declare any real or potential conflict of interest that could affect scholarly judgment.

Confidentiality

Information about manuscripts under review and review reports is confidential and must not be disclosed or used for personal purposes without authorization.

Research integrity

Fabrication, falsification, unjustified deletion or manipulation of data, results or scholarly sources is unacceptable.

Author responsibilities

Authors are responsible for the accuracy of the scholarly content, proper citation, respect for the rights of others, and disclosure of funding, conflicts of interest and any ethical considerations related to the research.

Editorial responsibilities

The editorial team must make scholarly decisions on the basis of research quality and suitability, protect confidential information, and handle allegations of research misconduct in a documented and fair manner.

Handling research misconduct

If an allegation of plagiarism, duplicate publication, fabrication or falsification of data, manipulation of results or other misconduct is raised, the editorial team will examine the matter and, where necessary, request explanations and documentation from the authors. Subsequent actions will be proportionate to the evidence and the seriousness of the issue.

Policy basis

The journal’s publication ethics policy is developed and, where necessary, updated with reference to recognized international principles and guidance, including the recommendations of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).