Corrections, Retractions & Expressions of Concern Policy

IRABCS is committed to maintaining the accuracy, reliability, and integrity of the scholarly record. The journal recognizes that errors, ethical concerns, or inaccuracies may occasionally be identified after publication and has established procedures for addressing such situations transparently.

Corrections, retractions, and expressions of concern are handled according to recognized publication ethics principles and are intended to protect readers and preserve trust in scientific literature.

Corrections Policy

Corrections are issued when errors are identified that affect the accuracy of published information but do not invalidate the overall findings or conclusions of the article.

Corrections may involve:

• Author information.
• Minor factual errors.
• Typographical mistakes affecting interpretation.
• Errors in figures, tables, or supplementary information.
• Incorrect metadata.

Corrections are published transparently and linked to the original article whenever possible.

The original article remains part of the scholarly record, with appropriate notification of the correction.

Retraction Policy

Retraction is a serious action taken when published research is found to contain substantial problems that compromise the reliability or integrity of the findings.

Reasons for retraction may include:

• Fabricated or falsified data.
• Major methodological errors.
• Plagiarism.
• Duplicate publication.
• Unethical research practices.
• Serious errors that invalidate conclusions.

Retractions are issued to clearly identify that the article should no longer be considered part of the reliable scientific literature.

A retraction notice explains the reason for retraction and provides appropriate links to the original article.

Expression of Concern

An expression of concern may be issued when serious questions are raised about a published article but the available evidence is insufficient for immediate correction or retraction.

Expressions of concern may be used while investigations by the journal, authors, institutions, or other relevant organizations are ongoing.

The journal updates the record when additional information becomes available.

Investigation Process

Concerns regarding published articles may be raised by authors, readers, reviewers, editors, institutions, or other stakeholders.

The editorial office evaluates the concern and may request explanations, supporting documentation, or additional information from authors.

Where necessary, IRABCS may consult independent experts or contact relevant institutions responsible for research oversight.

All investigations are conducted confidentially and fairly.

Editorial Actions

Based on the outcome of investigations, IRABCS may:

• Take no action if concerns are unsupported.
• Publish corrections.
• Issue expressions of concern.
• Retract articles.
• Notify relevant institutions.
• Restrict future submissions in cases of serious misconduct.