PAIN Research is committed to maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the published scientific record. When concerns are raised regarding a published article, the journal will evaluate the matter and, when appropriate, publish a correction, retraction, or expression of concern.
PAIN Research follows the principles and guidance of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) when addressing post-publication issues.
Corrections
A correction may be published when an error or omission is identified after publication but the overall results and conclusions of the article remain valid.
Corrections may address errors introduced by the authors or during the publication process. The correction notice will clearly describe the changes made and will be linked to the original article whenever possible.
Retractions
An article may be retracted when there is clear evidence that its findings or conclusions are unreliable, whether as a result of honest error, research misconduct, fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, redundant publication, serious ethical concerns, or other major problems affecting the integrity of the published work.
Retraction decisions are made by the journal’s editors after appropriate evaluation of the available information and, when necessary, consultation with the authors, their institutions, or other relevant parties.
A retraction notice will identify the article concerned and explain the reason for the retraction as clearly as possible. The original article will ordinarily remain accessible as part of the scholarly record and will be clearly identified as retracted.
Expressions of Concern
An Expression of Concern may be published when serious questions have been raised about the integrity or reliability of a published article but sufficient information is not yet available to determine whether a correction or retraction is necessary.
An Expression of Concern may remain in place while an investigation is ongoing. Following resolution of the matter, it may be followed by a correction, retraction, or other appropriate editorial notice.
Investigation of Concerns
Concerns regarding a published article may be reported to the journal’s editorial office. The editors will assess the available information and may request clarification or supporting documentation from the authors or relevant institutions.
Editors who have a conflict of interest concerning the article under consideration will not participate in the decision-making process.
All post-publication actions will be taken with the aim of preserving the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of the scientific record.