Journal Policies

We invite readers, authors, reviewers, and the wider public to explore and understand our journal policies, which ensure transparency, integrity, and high-quality scholarly publishing.

Editorial & Ethical Policies

Editorial Policy | Peer Review Policy |Authorship & Contribution Policy

Conflicts of Interest (COI) Policy |Publication Ethics & Malpractice Statement

Plagiarism Prevention Policy | Redundant / Concurrent Publication Policy

Correction, Retraction & Withdrawal Policy | Article Withdrawal Request Policy

Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools | Preprint Policy

Policy on Ethical Oversight and Compliance | Image Integrity & Manipulation Policy

Dual-Use Research of Concern (DURC) Policy

Author & Submission Policies

Instructions for Authors | Data Sharing & Availability Policy | Code & Materials Availability Policy

Clinical Trials Registration Policy | Complaints & Appeals Policy | Inclusive Language & Diversity Policy

Publishing, Access & Administrative Policies

Online First Publication Policy | Open Access Policy | Copyright & Licensing Policy 

Digital Preservation & Indexing Policy | Privacy & Confidentiality Policy | Advertising Policy 

Paper Prints Policy | Journal Metrics & Performance Policy | Post-Publication Policy

Author Policies and Responsibilities