Allegation of Research Misconduct

Allegation of Research Misconduct

Jurnal Kesehatan Mesencephalon takes allegations of research and publication misconduct seriously and investigates them thoroughly and impartially. Research misconduct includes fabrication (making up data or results), falsification (manipulating research materials, equipment, or processes, or changing or omitting data or results), plagiarism, duplicate or redundant publication, and violations of research ethics involving human or animal subjects.

How to Report an Allegation

Allegations must be submitted in writing to the Editor-in-Chief through the journal's contact email. The report should describe the concern clearly and include supporting evidence where available. The identity of the person making the allegation is kept confidential, and no retaliation will be taken against anyone who reports a concern in good faith.

Investigation Procedure

All allegations are handled in accordance with the flowcharts and guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). The procedure normally includes the following stages:

  1. Initial assessment of the allegation by the Editor-in-Chief;
  2. Collection and review of the relevant documents and evidence;
  3. Contact with the corresponding author to request an explanation;
  4. Application of the relevant COPE flowchart to determine the appropriate course of action;
  5. A decision on the outcome of the case.

Possible Outcomes

Depending on the findings of the investigation, the journal may:

  • Dismiss the allegation if it is found to be unsubstantiated;
  • Publish a correction for minor or honest errors;
  • Retract the article in cases of serious misconduct;
  • Notify the authors' institution or funding body where appropriate.

Fair Treatment

Both the person making the allegation and the person or persons accused are treated fairly and impartially throughout the process. The accused party is given the opportunity to respond to the allegations before any decision is made. Information about the case is shared only with those who need to know it for the purposes of the investigation.