Editorial Policies

 

Policy on Commentaries, Critiques, and Author Responses

This journal welcomes the submission of scholarly commentaries, critiques, and responses that contribute informed perspectives or constructive challenges to previously published articles. Such submissions serve as a valuable platform for academic debate, clarification, and the advancement of scientific discourse.

Scope and Eligibility

Commentaries and critiques may address articles previously published in this journal, and in some cases, articles from other reputable scientific outlets where relevant. Original authors are entitled to submit responses addressing critiques of their work, and commentators may, in turn, provide a rejoinder to the author’s reply. All submissions in this category must be evidence-based, academically focused, and presented in a respectful and professional tone. The inclusion of primary research data in critiques is permitted, provided the data are directly relevant and have been ethically collected.

Editorial and Review Process

Upon submission, all commentaries, critiques, and related materials are first evaluated by the Editor to assess clarity, relevance, and scholarly merit. If a critique contains new primary research data, it will undergo peer review by subject experts selected by the editorial team. Authors whose work is critiqued will be invited to submit a response, which will also be subject to editorial review and, if necessary, peer review. Rejoinders from the original commentators may be allowed, provided they also meet the journal’s editorial and review standards. When a full exchange occurs—comprising a critique, author response, and rejoinder—all contributions will be published simultaneously to ensure complete context and transparency. After publication of this exchange, the discussion will be considered closed and further correspondence on the matter will not be published.

Ethical and Transparency Considerations

In accordance with best practices in publication ethics, including guidance from the Committee on Publication Ethics, original authors will be notified and provided an opportunity to respond before any critique is published. All parties involved will be held to equivalent standards during the editorial and peer review process. When the original article under discussion is from another journal, the editors and authors of that journal will be informed, and an explanatory note will be added to the published critique. Should a critique identify significant errors or omissions in an article published by this journal, the editorial team will consult with the publisher to determine whether a correction, retraction, or editorial note is required, in accordance with the journal’s Retraction and Correction Policy.

Submission Requirements

Commentaries and critiques are generally subject to word limits, typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 words, and may include up to ten references and one or two tables or figures, depending on the guidelines for the relevant journal section. All submissions must clearly identify the article being addressed and succinctly state the nature of the concern or scholarly contribution. Submissions should be accompanied by a cover letter that details the rationale for submission, discloses any conflicts of interest, and confirms ethical compliance if original data are included.

Complaints and Appeals Policy

This policy sets forth the procedures for addressing complaints and appeals related to the publishing process, editorial decisions, and published content. The journal is committed to maintaining ethical, fair, and transparent practices in all aspects of scholarly publishing.

General Concerns and Complaints

Individuals who wish to raise concerns or file complaints regarding any aspect of the publication process are encouraged to contact the journal’s ethical oversight office or the designated contact point listed on the journal’s website. Such concerns may pertain to the editorial or peer review process, the conduct of authors, reviewers, or editors, or perceived violations of ethical or procedural fairness.

Upon receipt of a complaint, the journal will acknowledge it within five business days. The investigation will be overseen by a designated Research Integrity Officer or Ethics Manager and conducted in accordance with guidelines set by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). The process typically involves a review of submission records and communications, engagement with the parties involved as necessary, and strict adherence to confidentiality and data protection laws. The findings of the investigation will be communicated to the complainant in writing. While the journal endeavors to resolve all cases within six weeks, complex cases involving multiple stakeholders may require additional time. Complainants are asked to refrain from making public statements regarding the matter until the investigation is concluded to safeguard the integrity of the process. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome, further guidance may be sought from COPE’s Facilitation and Integrity Subcommittee.

Complaints Regarding Published Content

All concerns relating to published content are treated confidentially and reviewed in accordance with COPE’s best practices. The process includes an initial assessment to determine the need for a full investigation, collaboration with relevant parties such as authors, editors, and where necessary, third-party institutions or funding bodies, and, when appropriate, consultation with external experts. All investigations are carried out in accordance with privacy laws and data protection standards. The journal makes every effort to protect the identity of the complainant; however, complete anonymity may not be possible in all cases, particularly where the substance of the concern may reveal the identity of the individual. Outcomes of investigations are communicated to the complainant, though the provision of interim updates may be limited to maintain confidentiality.

Appeals of Editorial Decisions

Editors have full discretion in determining whether a manuscript aligns with the journal’s scope and standards. Desk rejections, issued without peer review due to lack of fit or scope, are not subject to formal appeal. However, for manuscripts that have undergone peer review, authors may appeal a rejection if they believe that the decision was inconsistent with journal policies or compromised by flaws in the peer review process. Appeals should provide a detailed, point-by-point response to reviewer or editor comments, along with a clear justification for reconsideration. The Editor will review the peer review history and the basis of the original decision. If the decision is found to be consistent with journal policy and editorial standards, the original outcome stands and is considered final. To preserve editorial independence, neither internal staff nor external entities will intervene in disputes between authors and editors over manuscript decisions.

Appeals of Post-Publication Corrective Actions

In cases where significant concerns arise regarding a published article, the Editor may consider post-publication corrective actions such as retraction, correction, or the issuance of an expression of concern. These actions are taken in accordance with COPE guidance and are implemented in collaboration with the editorial and ethical teams to uphold the integrity of the scholarly record. Authors may appeal such corrective actions only if new evidence emerges that materially affects the original decision. Appeals must be submitted within the designated response window and will be reviewed by the ethical oversight team, which may also seek input from the Editor, Editorial Board, or external advisors. Once a final decision is rendered on the appeal, no further challenges will be entertained.

Contact and Further Information

For any concerns or requests for clarification regarding this policy, individuals are encouraged to contact the journal office or ethics team using the official communication channels listed on the journal’s website. Additional guidance is available through resources such as COPE’s Facilitation and Integrity Subcommittee, COPE guidelines, statements on editorial independence, and the journal’s retraction guidelines.

Contributor License Policy

Contributor License Agreement

As part of the publication process, the corresponding author, acting on behalf of all contributing authors, is required to sign a Contributor License Agreement prior to publication. This agreement is designed to ensure that all necessary legal rights are appropriately granted, allowing for the broad dissemination of the work while upholding the intellectual property rights of the author.

Retention of Copyright

Under the Contributor License, authors retain full copyright in their work. The journal or publishing entity is granted the sole and exclusive right and license to publish, reproduce, distribute, and archive the article in all forms and media for the full legal term of copyright. In certain cases, such as publication on behalf of a society or other designated entity, a formal assignment of copyright may be necessary. If copyright assignment is required, it will be transferred from the author to the designated proprietor, with the specific terms and scope of this transfer clearly stipulated in the agreement.

Open Access

Authors who elect to publish their work under Open Access will be provided with appropriate licensing options, such as various Creative Commons licenses. Open access licensing enables broader sharing and reuse of the article, subject to the terms and conditions of the selected license. Further information regarding Open Access pathways, licensing terms, and any applicable publication fees can be found in the journal’s Open Access Policy.

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Contributor License: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Exclusive License Agreement
An exclusive license to publish permits the author to retain copyright while granting the publisher or publishing partner the sole and exclusive rights to publish, distribute, and manage the licensing of the work. All third-party requests for reuse are managed by the journal or publishing office.

Purpose of the Exclusive License
The exclusive license ensures global copyright protection, facilitates efficient management of requests for reuse and reproduction, prevents unauthorized duplication, and maximizes the legal dissemination of the work.

Ownership of Copyright
If the article is the original work of the author or co-authors and is not commissioned, copyright remains with the author(s). For works prepared in the course of employment, such as for a government agency or institution, copyright may reside with the employer, and this must be indicated on the license agreement.

Author Rights
Authors retain the right to share, reuse, and archive their work in accordance with institutional and funder policies. Detailed information is available in the journal’s archiving and reuse policies.

Signing and Returning the Contributor License
After acceptance, authors may sign the Contributor License using one of several methods: via an online system (an email link will be provided for electronic signature), directly within the peer review platform (if available), or by signing and returning a PDF license via email, either manually or digitally.

Co-author Involvement
It is the responsibility of the corresponding author to ensure that all co-authors consent to the submission and license terms. Depending on the workflow, each author may receive a separate link to sign, or one author may sign on behalf of all co-authors. Where required, each author may return either a shared or individual signed copy.

Employer Ownership of Copyright
If the employer holds the copyright, the author should select the relevant option in the license form, and an authorized representative of the employer must also sign the document.

Timing of License Submission
The signed Contributor License should be submitted as soon as possible after acceptance. The article will not advance to production or publication until the license is received.

Author Indemnification
Authors must warrant that their work is original, does not infringe upon third-party rights, and complies with ethical standards. These assurances are vital, as only the author can confirm these conditions.

Declaration of Conflicting Interests
Authors are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest that could influence, or appear to influence, the content of the article. A formal statement of any relevant interests must accompany the submission.

Compliance with Funder Mandates
The Contributor License is designed to support compliance with most funder and institutional archiving and open access mandates. Additional open access options are available when stricter requirements must be met.

Addenda Required by Funders or Employers
If a funder or employer requires an addendum to the standard license, the author may request approval to include it. Such requests should be submitted alongside the article details and a copy of the license for review and confirmation.

Open Access License Requirement
Authors selecting open access publication must also sign a Creative Commons open access license to formalize the terms of sharing and reuse.

Terminology: Contributor Agreement vs. Contributor License
The terms “Contributor Agreement” and “Contributor License” are often used interchangeably; however, some systems are transitioning to the standardized use of “Contributor License” for greater clarity.

Copyright and Permissions Policy

All publications in this journal are governed by international copyright legislation, designed to protect both the journal and its contributors. These policies are aligned with recognized global standards, including those of the United Kingdom and United States, and ensure the ethical use and broad dissemination of original research.

Copyright Ownership

Authors retain full copyright in their work upon signing the Contributor License or Open Access License. This agreement grants the journal the necessary rights to publish, reproduce, distribute, and archive the article in any format.

Use of Third-Party Material

It is the responsibility of authors to obtain all necessary permissions for any third-party material incorporated into their work, such as images, tables, extended quotations, or figures not originally created by the authors. Permissions must cover use in all formats and media, both print and online, and should be documented prior to submission.

Public Domain and Creative Commons Content

Content that is in the public domain or published under a Creative Commons license may be used without formal permission, provided that the terms of the license are strictly followed and appropriate attribution is given. Authors must verify the status of such content and ensure that derivative works are not inadvertently used without the required permissions.

Data Protection and Personal Privacy

When including identifiable photographs, audio, or video recordings of individuals, authors must obtain written consent using a release form. Particular care must be taken with sensitive content involving minors or health-related information to ensure full compliance with data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Permissions Process

Authors are strongly encouraged to secure permissions for third-party content well in advance of manuscript submission. Requests for permission should be directed to the original copyright holder, using language that seeks worldwide rights for all formats and media.

Open Access and Licensing

For articles published under an Open Access model, the applicable license terms dictate how the content may be reused. Creative Commons licenses, such as CC BY or CC BY-NC, permit certain reuses without additional permissions, as long as the required attribution is maintained.

Copyright and Permissions: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Main Responsibilities
Authors must ensure their article is original and that any third-party content included is properly credited and accompanied by the necessary permissions. Any text, tables, figures, or photographs created by others require documented permission for use.

Citing Another Author’s Work
When citing substantial portions of another author’s work, permission should be sought from the copyright holder, typically the publisher. Full credit must be provided, and permissions should cover both print and online formats. This requirement applies to text extracts, tables, illustrations, or photographs, especially those depicting identifiable individuals.

Situations Where Permission Is Not Required
Permission may not be needed if the use falls under ‘Fair Use’ (U.S.) or ‘Fair Dealing’ (U.K.), if the content is covered by the STM Permissions Guidelines, or if the material is published under a Creative Commons license and used in accordance with its terms.

STM Permissions Guidelines
The STM Permissions Guidelines facilitate the use of small portions of published content without the need for formal permission or payment, provided the publisher is a signatory. The specific requirements for citation or notification vary and can be found on the STM website.

Fair Use and Fair Dealing
‘Fair Use’ is a U.S. legal doctrine that allows limited use of copyrighted material for purposes such as education or critical commentary. Considerations include the purpose of use, nature of the original work, the amount used, and the impact on the original work’s market value. ‘Fair Dealing’ is a similar exception in the U.K., permitting limited use of copyrighted content for criticism, review, or quotation, provided the use is fair, appropriately attributed, and not excessive. In both cases, if there is uncertainty about compliance, permission should be obtained.

Criticism, Review, and Quotations
Content may be used without permission for criticism or review, which involves analysis or evaluation of the original work. Decorative or illustrative uses do not qualify. Short quotations for criticism, review, or introductory purposes are allowed if clearly attributed, of minimal necessary length, and sourced from previously published works.

Creative Commons Licenses
Creative Commons licenses allow different levels of reuse. For example, CC BY requires only attribution, while CC BY-NC limits reuse to non-commercial purposes. Authors and users must ensure compliance with all terms of the relevant license.

Public Domain Content
Works in the public domain may be used freely, typically including works where copyright has expired, U.S. federal government works produced during employment, or works explicitly released into the public domain. However, new interpretations or derivative works may still be protected by copyright.

Use of Photos or Videos of People
Written consent must be obtained for the use of identifiable images, audio, or video recordings, especially for minors or sensitive subjects. Failure to obtain consent may violate privacy laws.

Release Forms
Authors should use a release form to secure consent for any identifiable audio or visual content, with explicit approval for publication.

Posting Articles Online
Authors may post their articles online after publication, subject to the journal’s author sharing and reuse policies. Authors are advised to consult the journal’s archiving and license policies for details.

Third-Party Reuse of Articles
Requests from third parties to reuse articles are managed by the journal. If the article is published under a Creative Commons license, the terms of that license apply. Otherwise, explicit permission must be sought.

Permission Request Templates
A standard template for requesting permission, which seeks worldwide rights for all formats and media, is available and should be used when contacting copyright holders.

Further Assistance
For any additional questions or clarification related to copyright, permissions, or licensing, authors should contact the journal’s editorial office.

Corrections and Retractions Policy

This journal is dedicated to preserving the integrity, transparency, and accuracy of the academic record. The following policy describes the procedures for handling post-publication corrections, expressions of concern, retractions, and removals, in accordance with guidelines established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and international best practices.

Version of Record

The final published version of an article, referred to as the Version of Record (VoR), represents the definitive, citable form of the work. The VoR is defined either as the article paginated within a specific volume and issue, or as the initial online publication in the case of continuous publication Open Access journals. This version incorporates any subsequent corrections and forms the formal published record. Any modifications to the VoR are made only when essential and are fully documented in line with scholarly standards.

Post-Publication Corrections

Corrections may be issued following publication if errors or omissions are identified that affect the article’s readability, indexing, compliance with journal policy, or the validity and integrity of its content. Such corrections may be prompted by authors, readers, editors, or other stakeholders. While authors are given an opportunity to correct proofs prior to publication, unforeseen issues may require formal amendments after publication.

Correction Notices

When necessary, a correction notice is published to address factual errors affecting the article’s interpretation or understanding, or to clarify substantive content needed for citation and use. Correction notices, which may be classified as a corrigendum (for author error) or an erratum (for publisher error), are directly linked to the original article, and the article will bear a footnote indicating the changes. In cases where multiple errors significantly impact the article’s integrity, the journal will conduct a thorough investigation in accordance with COPE procedures.

Expression of Concern

An Expression of Concern may be published if serious issues are raised that could mislead readers or suggest potential misconduct, if there is an ongoing or inconclusive investigation, or if there are concerns requiring notification pending resolution. Such notices are linked to the original article and may be followed by a subsequent retraction or correction. Author approval is not required for the issuance of an Expression of Concern. Where relevant, supplementary materials or data made available during an investigation may also be published to inform readers.

Retractions

A retraction is issued when the article’s results or conclusions are found to be unreliable, whether due to honest error or scientific misconduct, in cases of compromised peer review or ethical breaches, or when authors are unable to provide adequate responses to concerns, raw data, or verification of authorship. Retraction decisions adhere to COPE Retraction Guidelines and are carried out in a transparent manner. Retraction notices are permanently linked to the original article, clearly explain the reasons for retraction, include any comments from the authors when provided, and remain part of the permanent scholarly record. Retractions do not require author consent and will only be reconsidered if significant new evidence becomes available. Article Processing Charges are non-refundable after retraction.

Removals

In rare and exceptional circumstances, article content may be removed—such as when required by law (including court orders), to protect participant privacy, to avoid risk to public safety, or in cases of defamatory content. When content is removed, a notice will be published explaining the reason, unless restricted by legal considerations.

Corrections to Supplemental Material and Research Data

Supplemental files and datasets are regarded as part of the permanent record. If significant changes to supplemental material are needed, a notice will be published to alert readers to the update. Minor corrections may be made without a separate notice, but all versioning details will be recorded on the first page of the updated file.

Crossmark Policy

The journal participates in the Crossmark program, offering a reliable and transparent mechanism for tracking updates to published content. All HTML and PDF article formats include a Crossmark button, allowing readers to verify whether a document is current or has been subject to correction, update, or retraction. For articles published since 2011, the Crossmark button is being added retroactively to ensure consistent coverage across the journal archive.

For additional guidance or questions regarding this policy, authors and readers are encouraged to consult the journal’s Complaints and Appeals Policy or refer to COPE guidelines.

 

Editorial Dignity at Work Policy

This journal is firmly committed to fostering an environment characterized by dignity, respect, and professionalism for everyone involved in the editorial and publishing process. Bullying, harassment, or abusive behavior directed at any individual engaged with the journal—including editors, editorial board members, reviewers, authors, and editorial support staff—will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Our Commitment

We affirm that every participant in the journal’s editorial activities is entitled to work in a space free from offensive, intimidating, or malicious behavior, as well as insults, threats, humiliation, or any form of demeaning or distressing treatment. Conduct that makes any individual feel vulnerable or unsafe is strictly unacceptable, whether it occurs in verbal, written, or electronic communication. The journal recognizes that even a single incident can constitute a violation of this policy.

Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all individuals involved at any stage of the editorial and publishing lifecycle. It encompasses manuscript submission and related correspondence, peer review and editorial decision-making, communications among authors, editors, reviewers, and journal staff, and post-publication interactions including corrections or appeals. All parties are expected to maintain a standard of professionalism and courtesy throughout all research, review, and publication activities.

Editorial Rights and Actions

The journal reserves the right to decline or discontinue editorial or publishing relationships where it is determined that any party has engaged in bullying, harassment, or abusive behavior. Existing engagements may be terminated, and where warranted, further action may be taken, including the reporting of such conduct to affiliated institutions, professional associations, or relevant legal authorities.

This policy underscores the journal’s broader commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, equity, and ethical conduct in academic publishing. Individuals who have experienced or witnessed inappropriate behavior in the context of their engagement with the journal are strongly encouraged to report their concerns to the editorial office so that the matter may be reviewed and addressed appropriately.

Editorial Independence Policy

This journal is steadfastly committed to preserving the independence and integrity of its editorial and peer review processes. Editorial decisions are made free from commercial or institutional influence, and the principle of editorial independence is upheld throughout every stage of the publication process.

Commitment to Editorial Independence

Editors are granted full authority over all editorial content, including the oversight of the peer review process and the acceptance or rejection of submitted articles. Every editorial decision is grounded solely in the academic merit of the submission, considering the validity of the research and its conclusions, the contribution made to the existing body of knowledge, and the work’s compliance with the journal’s policies and scope. Commercial interests, financial relationships, and considerations of potential revenue play no role in the editorial decision-making process.

Editorial Decision-Making

Editors have the discretion to reject submissions without external input if they fall outside the journal’s scope, lack sufficient quality, or are unlikely to interest the journal’s readership. Acceptance of manuscripts is based on the recommendations of at least two independent peer reviewers with appropriate subject expertise, combined with the editor’s own evaluation. Editorial decisions are rendered in accordance with the best practices set forth by organizations such as the Committee on Publication Ethics, the World Association of Medical Editors, and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors.

Handling Complaints and Ethical Concerns

Any concerns or complaints regarding editorial decisions should be directed to the Journal Editor or the Editorial Board. Journal management staff do not participate in the editorial decision-making process and exert no influence over editorial outcomes. Should ethical concerns arise, they will be addressed collaboratively by the Journal Editor and relevant oversight representatives, in accordance with recognized publishing ethics guidelines.

This policy affirms the journal’s ongoing commitment to academic freedom, editorial accountability, and rigorous peer review—principles that are essential to the advancement of trustworthy and credible scholarship.

Historical Content Statement

The content published in this journal encompasses material spanning several decades, reflecting language, perspectives, and scholarly practices that may have been widely accepted at the time of publication but are now recognized as offensive, outdated, or potentially harmful. The preservation of the historical academic record remains essential; however, the journal acknowledges the importance of addressing such content responsibly and transparently.

Commitment to Ethical Review of Legacy Content

The journal is committed to evaluating potentially problematic or harmful content in its archival collection on a case-by-case basis as issues are brought to our attention. When appropriate, actions such as the addition of a publisher’s note or disclaimer may be taken to alert readers about the nature of specific historical content. In situations involving discredited scientific claims or material derived from unethical research practices, the journal will consult with its editorial team to determine the most suitable corrective measure. Such measures may include the publication of a correction, retraction, or editorial commentary, as warranted by the nature and impact of the content.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

This journal actively supports and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of its editorial and publishing activities. The journal aligns with cross-disciplinary initiatives aimed at addressing historical biases and advancing inclusive scholarship within the academic community.

Reporting Potentially Harmful Content

Readers are encouraged to report any content they believe may be problematic, harmful, or offensive. Reports should include the reader’s name and email address, the article title, journal name, article link or URL, and a description of the nature of the issue. All reports will be carefully reviewed in consultation with the editorial team and, where relevant, affiliated societies. If concerns are substantiated, appropriate action—such as a disclaimer, correction, or retraction—will be taken in accordance with the nature and impact of the content.

Jurisdictional Neutrality Policy

This journal is dedicated to maintaining strict neutrality on jurisdictional and geopolitical matters. Recognizing the global and diverse nature of the scholarly community, we seek to foster an inclusive publishing environment that respects the rights and identities of all participants—regardless of geographic origin, location, or institutional affiliation.

Geographic Designations and Institutional Affiliations

All individuals engaged with the journal—including authors, editors, editorial board members, and peer reviewers—are required to provide their current institutional affiliation and country or region as part of the submission or professional profile process. These designations are used solely for the purposes of accurate scholarly attribution and to promote transparency within editorial workflows. The journal makes no political or legal inferences based on the geographic identifiers provided.

Neutral Stance on Disputed Territories and Political Claims

The journal does not adopt or endorse any position on territorial claims, sovereignty disputes, or the legal status of any country or region referenced within institutional affiliations, article content, or author backgrounds. The inclusion of specific geographic names should not be interpreted as an endorsement or acceptance of any political stance by the journal or its editorial team.

Author Responsibility

Authors bear responsibility for ensuring that the terminology and geographic references in their manuscripts are accurate, appropriate, and consistent with their own institutional policies. When manuscripts contain references to disputed territories or potentially sensitive geographic designations, authors are encouraged to adhere to widely recognized international standards or to provide explanatory footnotes where necessary to avoid ambiguity or misrepresentation.

Editorial Discretion and Compliance

Editors may offer guidance or request clarifications in instances where geographic references could be construed as politically sensitive or misleading. The journal reserves the right to adjust or annotate institutional affiliations or country/region identifiers in accordance with international publication standards or to maintain jurisdictional neutrality.

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Jurisdictional Neutrality Disclosure Form

All contributors are required to complete the following form as part of the submission or profile update process:

Please complete and submit this form with your manuscript or professional profile update. If you have questions regarding this policy or need guidance on geographic designations, contact the editorial office.

Name and Pronoun Change Policy

As part of its ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, this journal fully supports the right of authors to change their name and/or pronouns in previously published articles for any reason, including but not limited to marriage or divorce, gender affirmation, religious conversion, or personal preference. The journal recognizes the importance of authors maintaining control over how they are represented in the academic record.

All name and pronoun change requests will be honored without requiring disclosure of the reason for the change or submission of supporting documentation. Upon request, the author’s name will be updated across all relevant online records, including the article PDF, HTML, metadata, and external indexing systems such as Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The original DOI will remain unchanged, ensuring that all previous citations remain valid. These updates will be implemented without the publication of a correction notice, thereby preserving the author’s privacy and minimizing unnecessary attention. Corrections for spelling errors or mistakes in author names will continue to be handled under the journal’s standard corrections policy. Changes to affiliations or email addresses that are unrelated to a name change do not fall under the scope of this policy.

Authors may also indicate their preferences regarding the notification of co-authors. Options include notifying co-authors personally, requesting the journal team to inform co-authors, or opting not to notify co-authors at all. All preferences will be respected, and complete confidentiality will be maintained where requested.

While the journal endeavors to implement all requested changes promptly and accurately, it is acknowledged that complete removal of previous names from all public-facing records may not be technically feasible at this time. The journal is actively exploring improvements to enable more comprehensive updates in the future. Any misuse of this policy will be addressed in accordance with the journal’s ethics and misconduct procedures.

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Name/Pronoun Change Request Form

Please complete and submit this form through our Author Guidelines page or directly to the editorial office. The editorial team will confirm receipt and begin the update process as soon as possible.

Page and Publication Charges Policy

This journal is committed to full transparency regarding the costs associated with manuscript publication. Authors considering submission should be aware that page charges, publication charges, and, where applicable, charges for colour figures may apply.

Charges for Open Access Articles

Articles published as Open Access in this journal follow a single primary publication route. It is important to note that even for Open Access articles, standard page charges, publication charges, and charges for colour figures may still apply as outlined below.

Definitions and Explanation of Charges

Page Charges:
A fixed fee of 1,000 PKR is applied per printed page. This charge is incurred only after an article has successfully undergone peer review and has been accepted for publication. The precise total is calculated following the typesetting and copyediting process and is communicated to the authors prior to publication.

Publication Charges:
A one-time publication fee of 25,000 PKR per accepted article is applied upon acceptance, following peer review. This charge supports the editorial and production costs associated with preparing each article for publication.

Colour Figure Charges (Print Version):
While most colour images are published online at no additional cost, charges may be applicable for the inclusion of colour figures in the print version of the journal. The specifics of any such charges are detailed in the journal’s author guidelines.

Purpose of These Charges

These charges are necessary to support the financial sustainability of the journal, covering essential production, editorial, and dissemination expenses. It is important to note that these charges are distinct from Article Processing Charges (APCs) that may be required by fully Open Access journals.

Transparency and Author Responsibility

All applicable fees are clearly outlined in the journal’s author guidelines. Authors are strongly encouraged to review these guidelines prior to manuscript submission and to confirm all applicable charges during the pre-publication process. Authors are responsible for ensuring that any required charges are understood and approved prior to publication.

For any questions or clarification regarding publication fees, authors are welcome to contact the editorial office for assistance.

Prior Publication Policy

This journal adheres to ethical publishing standards in alignment with the COPE Guidelines on Redundant Publication. To maintain the integrity of the academic record and prevent unnecessary duplication, authors are required to disclose any prior publication or public distribution of their manuscript at the time of submission.

Disclosure Requirements at Submission

Authors must provide a full account of any prior distribution or publication of all or part of the manuscript during the submission process. Any quoted material should be clearly marked and appropriately attributed. Authors are also expected to describe the nature and location of any previously disseminated versions, including but not limited to preprints, theses, or conference abstracts.

General Rule

As a general principle, if a substantial portion of the manuscript has already been published elsewhere, it is not eligible for publication in this journal. However, certain exceptions exist in accordance with the journal’s specific policies, and prior distribution does not always constitute prior publication.

Acceptable Forms of Prior Distribution

Some forms of public dissemination may be considered acceptable, depending on the journal’s review model and scope:

Preprints and Working Papers:
Posting manuscripts on recognized preprint servers, such as bioRxiv, medRxiv, or preprints.org, or on scholarly collaboration networks like ResearchGate or Academia.edu, may be permissible. Authors are advised to consult the journal’s submission guidelines for specific policies on preprints. Authors should also be aware that the public sharing of preprints may compromise anonymity in a double-anonymized peer review process.

Theses and Dissertations:
Content derived from institutional repositories, such as university thesis collections, is generally acceptable provided that the thesis has not been formally published in a peer-reviewed journal. In such cases, the content must be substantially revised and appropriately cited, and must not duplicate work that has already been published.

Conference Presentations:
Manuscripts based on material previously presented as conference abstracts, presentations, or posters may be considered for publication, provided they have not been published in full elsewhere, are significantly expanded beyond the initial presentation, and include clear disclosure of the prior presentation. Authors must also confirm that they retain the rights to the material.

Clinical Trial Registries and Raw Data:
Use of data previously registered on clinical trial registries or published as raw datasets is acceptable if the reuse of data complies with repository or institutional permissions. Authors must disclose and reference any prior publications from the dataset and ensure that any reuse of compiled tables or appendices from another source is appropriately cleared for permissions.

Restrictions After Submission

Once a manuscript has been submitted to the journal, authors are discouraged from posting updated versions on preprint servers or public websites until a final editorial decision has been reached. After acceptance, authors may share the article only in accordance with the journal’s open access and archiving policies, as outlined in the Guidelines for Authors. The final published version (PDF) may not be posted to unrestricted public sites such as preprint servers, personal websites, or article-sharing platforms unless explicitly permitted under the terms of the license.

Questions and Clarification

Authors who are uncertain about the eligibility of previously shared content are strongly encouraged to contact the journal’s editorial office prior to submission. Peer reviewers and editors reserve the right to determine whether a prior version of the work compromises the novelty and eligibility of the submission for publication in this journal.

Request for Anonymity Policy

Authors who wish to publish anonymously may request this option under specific circumstances in order to protect their personal safety, privacy, or address other sensitive concerns. The journal is committed to treating such requests with the utmost confidentiality, respect, and diligence.

Making a Request

To initiate a request for anonymous authorship, authors must submit a formal written application directly to the Journal Editor. The request should clearly state the reason or reasons for seeking anonymity. Legitimate grounds for requesting anonymity may include threats to personal safety, issues of political or social sensitivity, risk of discrimination or persecution, concerns related to gender identity, or other significant personal circumstances.

Review Process

Each request for anonymity will be considered on an individual basis by the Journal Editor, and, when appropriate, in consultation with the journal’s ethics committee or governing board. The review process will adhere to the guidelines established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) as well as recognized international best practices. Throughout the process, the journal will maintain strict confidentiality regarding the identity of the author or authors making the request.

Important Considerations

While the journal aims to support authors’ requests for anonymity where warranted, such arrangements must not compromise academic integrity, authorship accountability, or the proper functioning of the peer review process. Authors should be aware that anonymous authorship may not be compatible with certain legal, ethical, or indexing requirements, and may affect the discoverability and citation of the published work. Where full anonymity cannot be granted, the editorial team will collaborate with the author to consider alternative solutions, such as the use of a pseudonym or a footnoted clarification.

Contact Information

Authors who have questions about this policy or who wish to submit a request for anonymous authorship are encouraged to contact the Journal Editor directly through the journal’s editorial office. All inquiries and requests will be handled with strict confidentiality.

Research Data Sharing Policy

This journal is committed to fostering openness, transparency, and reproducibility in scholarly research. Authors are encouraged to make their research data accessible, citable, and preserved as valuable intellectual contributions, in accordance with established ethical, legal, and disciplinary standards. The journal’s approach aligns with the Transparency and Openness Promotion (TOP) Guidelines and supports the Joint Declaration of Data Citation Principles.

Definition of Research Data

Research data encompasses any units of information—quantitative or qualitative—that are collected, generated, or observed in the course of scholarly investigation and are necessary to validate research findings. Examples of research data include numerical datasets (such as spreadsheets), interview transcripts, audio or visual recordings, field notes, survey results, software code and scripts, images, and maps. For further details and examples of qualitative data, authors are encouraged to consult the journal’s supplementary resources.

Data Sharing Policy Tiers

The journal adopts one of the following levels of research data sharing, as indicated in the Submission Guidelines for each manuscript type:

• Encouraged Data Sharing: Authors are encouraged to deposit data in a public, discipline-appropriate repository, such as Figshare, Zenodo, or Dryad. They should include a Data Availability Statement in the manuscript and cite the dataset in the reference list.

• Mandatory Data Sharing: Authors are required to share their research data in a recognized open-access repository prior to publication, include a Data Availability Statement, and provide full citations for the data in the references.

• Mandatory Data Sharing with Peer Review: In addition to sharing and citing data, authors must submit their dataset for peer review and anonymize datasets where necessary.

Data Availability Statement (DAS) Examples

Licensing and Repositories

Authors may select appropriate license terms for their data, such as CC0 or CC BY, in accordance with the policies of the chosen repository. All repositories should provide a persistent identifier, preferably a DOI, to ensure data can be accurately cited and accessed.

Ethical and Legal Concerns

Data sharing is subject to ethical, legal, and commercial considerations. Alternatives to open sharing include depositing data in controlled access repositories, anonymizing datasets, sharing metadata, or providing redacted datasets with contract-based access. Authors are advised to consult the editorial office when in doubt.

Submission Instructions for Research Data

Authors may upload research data at the time of manuscript submission or revision. Each file should be clearly titled and described. Files are published as supplied and will not be edited by the journal. Community-recognized and open file formats are preferred (e.g., CSV for tabular data), as outlined on resources such as FAIRsharing.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

For further guidance or questions regarding research data sharing, authors are encouraged to contact the journal’s editorial office.

Simultaneous Submissions Policy

To uphold the integrity of academic publishing and ensure fairness in the peer review process, this journal maintains a strict policy prohibiting simultaneous or duplicate submission of manuscripts. Authors are required to ensure that their manuscript is not under consideration for publication elsewhere, either in whole or in part, at the time of submission to this journal.

Upon submission, authors affirm that the manuscript, or any significant portion thereof, is not being reviewed or processed by any other journal or publisher. If a report or suspicion of simultaneous or duplicate submission is received from another journal, publisher, or third party, the editorial office will immediately pause all processing of the manuscript. A formal investigation will be initiated to assess the validity of the claim, in accordance with established ethical standards and the guidelines provided by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

If, upon investigation, the Editor or publisher determines that the submission constitutes a duplicate or simultaneous submission, the manuscript will be rejected without further review. Additional sanctions may be imposed as deemed appropriate, including a ban on future submissions for a defined period.

Authors are strongly advised to disclose any related submissions, preprints, or conference presentations that may overlap with the manuscript at the time of submission. Failure to disclose relevant information may result in further ethical review and the implementation of corrective actions as necessary.