Global Research & Development Services Publishing Retraction Policy

(Based on COPE Retraction Guidelines)

Purpose of Retraction:

Retraction is a mechanism for correcting the literature and alerting readers to publications that contain such seriously flawed or erroneous data that their findings and conclusions cannot be relied upon. Unreliable data may result from honest error or from research misconduct. Retractions are also used to alert readers to cases of redundant publication (i.e. when authors present the same data in several publications), plagiarism, and failure to disclose a major competing interest likely to influence interpretations or recommendations. The main purpose of retractions is to correct the literature and ensure its integrity rather than to punish authors who misbehave.

Global Research & Development Services Publishing will consider retracting a publication if:

1. we have clear evidence that the findings are unreliable, either as a result of misconduct (e.g. data fabrication) or honest error (e.g. miscalculation or experimental error)
2. the findings have previously been published elsewhere without proper crossreferencing, permission or justification (i.e. cases of redundant publication)
3. it constitutes plagiarism
4. it reports unethical research

Global Research & Development Services Publishing will consider issuing an expression of concern if:

1. we receive inconclusive evidence of research or publication misconduct by the authors
2. there is evidence that the findings are unreliable but the authors’ institution will not investigate the case
3. we believe that an investigation into alleged misconduct related to the publication either has not been or would not be, fair and impartial or conclusive
4. an investigation is underway but a judgment will not be available for a considerable time

Global Research & Development Services Publishing will consider issuing a correction if:

1. a small portion of an otherwise reliable publication proves to be misleading (especially because of honest error)
2. the author/contributor list is incorrect (i.e. a deserving author has been omitted or somebody who does not meet authorship criteria has been included)

General Considerations regarding Notice of Retraction. Notice would:

1. be linked to the retracted article wherever possible (i.e. in all electronic versions)
2. clearly identify the retracted article (e.g. by including the title and authors in the retraction heading)
3. be clearly identified as a retraction (i.e. distinct from other types of correction or comment)
4. be published promptly to minimize harmful effects from misleading publications
5. be freely available to all readers (i.e. not behind access barriers or available only to subscribers)
6. state who is retracting the article
7. state the reason(s) for retraction (to distinguish misconduct from honest error)
8. avoid statements that are potentially defamatory or libelous