Corrections, Retractions, and Post-Publication Discussions Policy

 

Neutrosophic Sets and Systems

Neutrosophic Sets and Systems (NSS) uphold the integrity of the scholarly record as a core value. We recognize that honest errors, disputes, or ethical issues may arise after publication, and we are fully committed to addressing them promptly, transparently, and in accordance with international ethical guidelines.

This policy follows the frameworks established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and the ICMJE for handling:

  • Author or editorial errors
  • Allegations of misconduct
  • Post-publication discussions and disputes
  1. Corrections (Errata)

A correction will be issued when:

  • A minor error is identified in a published article (e.g., author name misspelling, figure mislabeling, or minor data inaccuracies)
  • The error does not affect the scientific conclusions of the article

Corrections will be published as a separate notice, linked to the original article, and clearly labeled (e.g., “Correction to: [Article Title]”). The original article will remain accessible with a link to the correction notice.

  1. Retractions

A retraction will be issued when:

  • The findings are unreliable due to data fabrication, falsification, or major methodological error
  • Plagiarism, duplicate publication, or ethical misconduct is confirmed
  • The authors have violated authorship or conflict of interest policies
  • Legal or copyright violations are discovered post-publication

Retractions will:

  • Clearly state the reason for retraction
  • Be signed by the editors or the publisher
  • Remain publicly accessible and linked to the original article
  • Not be removed from the archive to preserve the record

In cases of partial error, a correction with an editorial note may be published instead of a full retraction.

  1. Expressions of Concern

Suppose a serious issue is raised, but a final decision (e.g., retraction or correction) cannot yet be made. In that case, the journal may publish an Expression of Concern to inform readers while an investigation is ongoing.

This may apply when:

  • Misconduct is suspected but not yet proven
  • Legal constraints prevent full disclosure
  • There is evidence of data inconsistency or undisclosed conflicts
  1. Post-Publication Comments and Disputes

NSS welcomes critical feedback and scientific discussion even after publication. Authors, readers, or researchers may:

  • Submit letters to the editor or responses to published work
  • Raise concerns about scientific content, ethical breaches, or citation omissions

The editors review submissions and, if accepted, publish them in a future issue as correspondence or editorial notes.

  1. Appeals and Author Disputes

Authors may appeal:

  • Editorial decisions (e.g., rejection or request for retraction)
  • Published expressions of concern

Appeals must be submitted in writing and will be reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief and, where needed, the Editorial Board or external advisors. All decisions are final and based on COPE procedures.

  1. How to Request a Correction or Raise an Issue

Requests for corrections, retractions, or responses should be sent to the editorial office: smarand@unm.edu