PIMR is responsible for maintaining an accurate and reliable published record. When errors or integrity problems are identified in published articles, the journal takes action in line with COPE guidelines.
A Correction is published when an error in a published article does not affect the main findings or conclusions but may mislead readers if left uncorrected. An Erratum corrects an error made by the journal (e.g., in typesetting or editing), while a Corrigendum corrects an error made by the authors. The correction notice is published as a separate, citable article permanently linked to the original article, and the original article is updated where technically feasible.
Authors who identify an error in their published work must inform the editorial office without delay. The journal also investigates errors reported by readers and other researchers.
A Retraction is issued when the main findings of an article are found to be unreliable—whether due to honest error or deliberate misconduct—and when the unreliability is serious enough that the scientific record would be misleading if the article remained available without a clear notice. Grounds for retraction include:
The retraction notice clearly states the reason for retraction. The original article is not deleted; instead, it is marked with a visible retraction watermark and permanently linked to the retraction notice. The retraction notice is freely accessible. PIMR follows the COPE Retraction Guidelines .
An Expression of Concern is published when the editorial office has reason to believe that a published article may have integrity problems, but an investigation is still ongoing and no final conclusion has been reached. The Expression of Concern is linked to the article and is updated or replaced by a correction or retraction notice once the investigation has been completed.
Where an investigation reveals or strongly suggests research misconduct, the journal may notify the authors' employing institutions, funding agencies, or regulatory bodies, as appropriate. This decision is made by the Editor-in-Chief in consultation with the Publisher and in accordance with COPE guidance.