Ethics and Malpractice Statement

Integral Research: Publication Ethics and Malpractice Statement

As an academic publisher, Society for Academic Facilitation and Extension (SAFE) is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of scholarly publication ethics. Our commitment extends to adhering rigorously to the norms and guidelines established by reputable scholarly societies, thereby striving to achieve and maintain international standards of excellence in publication quality. This pledge encompasses the continual refinement of our publication processes to ensure both integrity and relevance. We expect and encourage all stakeholders associated with our journals to familiarize themselves with the ethical norms delineated on our website. This publication ethics and malpractice statement has been formulated in accordance with the general guidelines provided by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) .

Integral Research is devoted to the meticulous observance of ethical principles in all facets of publication, including matters of integrity, errors, and retractions. Upholding publication integrity and deterring malpractice constitute fundamental responsibilities of the editorial board. The journal unequivocally condemns all forms of unethical behavior and maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards plagiarism. Authors who submit manuscripts to Integral Research affirm the originality of their work and certify that it has neither been previously published nor is under consideration elsewhere for publication.

Peer Review System:

Integral Research operates under a rigorous Double-Blind Peer Review system, ensuring the anonymity of both reviewers and authors throughout the evaluation process. Initially, submissions undergo scrutiny to ascertain their alignment with the journal's standards and scope. Manuscripts failing to meet these initial criteria are promptly declined, with authors notified accordingly. Subsequently, submissions meeting the initial standards undergo detailed evaluation by two or more reviewers. In instances of reviewer disagreement, the Chief Editor adjudicates.

Authorship:

All published materials, including research articles and conference proceedings, must properly attribute authorship. Given our online medium, the corresponding author, who initiates the submission process, bears the responsibility of ensuring adherence to publication ethics guidelines. This encompasses:

  • Confirming the authenticity of the submitted manuscript.
  • Ensuring awareness among all co-authors regarding the submission.
  • Obtaining permission from co-authors for publication.
  • Appropriately acknowledging the contributions of all authors.
  • Acknowledging contributions from individuals or entities adding value to the work.
  • Ensuring the timely submission of Conflict of Interests documentation.

Changes in Authorship:

Requests for alterations to authorship must be communicated to the Chief Editor. The editorial board reserves the right to decide on such requests, which are only approved in cases of valid justification and unanimous agreement among authors. Any post-publication alterations may be publicly notified.

Ghost, Guest, or Gift Authorship:

Integral Research unequivocally denounces unethical practices such as ghost, guest, or gift authorship, which involve improper attribution or contribution to an article. Appropriate measures are taken against such practices.

Publication Process:

SAFE expects all involved in the publication process, including editors, reviewers, and website managers, to adhere strictly to international norms. Continuous efforts are made to elevate publication standards, and authors are likewise urged to adhere to ethical norms outlined in our guidelines.

Submission:

Authors submitting manuscripts to our journal must adhere strictly to our guidelines. Action may be taken against practices such as:

  • Simultaneous submission to other publication outlets.
  • Plagiarism in any form, requiring proper acknowledgment and permissions.
  • Inclusion of defamatory or promotional content.
  • Gender, racial, or cultural biases in content selection.

Steps against Misconduct:

SAFE may undertake the following actions in response to unethical practices:

  • Retraction of published content with notification.
  • Publication of modified content with justification.
  • Blacklisting and barring of authors from future submissions.
  • Communication of misconduct evidence to the author's institution or relevant authorities.

Publication Decisions:

Editorial decisions regarding publication are the responsibility of Integral Research's editors. These decisions are informed by reviewers' reports and may involve consultation with other editors or reviewers. Furthermore, decisions are guided by the journal's policies and compliance with legal requirements regarding libel, copyright infringement, and plagiarism.

Fair Play:

All manuscripts are evaluated based solely on their intellectual content, devoid of considerations such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, or political philosophy of the authors.

Confidentiality:

Manuscripts submitted for peer review are treated as confidential documents. Editorial staff are prohibited from disclosing such information except to authorized individuals, such as the corresponding author and potential reviewers.

Fundamental Errors in Published Works:

Significant errors or inaccuracies discovered in published works prompt collaboration between the journal editors and authors to retract or correct the paper as necessary. The journal reserves the right to correct published material and issue dated errata where appropriate.

Dealing with Unethical Behavior:

Integral Research relies on guidelines and recommendations from the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) when addressing unethical behavior.

Retraction Policy:

The journal adheres to COPE Retraction Guidelines when retracting published works.

Conflict of Interest:

Transparency in publication is upheld through the avoidance of conflicts of interest by all parties involved in the publication process. Authors, editors, and reviewers are expected to disclose any potential conflicts of interest.

Advertising Policy:

Integral Research does not endorse products or services advertised within its publications. Editorial content remains independent of commercial interests.

Direct Marketing Policy:

Integral Research refrains from engaging in direct marketing activities such as direct mail, telemarketing, or direct response advertising to authors. The journal upholds the integrity of authentic research and publication through a rigorous peer-review process.

In upholding publication ethics and integrity, Integral Research remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of scholarly excellence and ethical conduct in academic publishing.