INCODING takes allegations of research and publication misconduct seriously and seeks to handle them fairly, confidentially, and objectively.
Research misconduct may include fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, inappropriate image manipulation, duplicate publication, undisclosed conflicts of interest, unethical research practices, and authorship violations.
Allegations may be submitted to the editorial office with supporting information or evidence. The journal will assess whether the allegation falls within its editorial responsibilities and whether further investigation is warranted.
Where appropriate, the editorial office may request explanations from the authors, consult reviewers or editorial advisers, and refer the matter to the relevant institution or research organization.
All parties will be given a reasonable opportunity to respond to allegations relevant to them. Confidential information will be handled carefully, subject to applicable ethical and legal obligations.
Editorial action will depend on the available evidence and may include rejection, correction, an expression of concern, retraction, or referral to the relevant institution.
The journal will not treat an unverified allegation as proof of misconduct.