Corrections and Retractions Policy

SPEKTRUM IRAN (SPIR) is committed to maintaining the integrity, accuracy, and reliability of the scholarly record. The journal follows internationally recognized publication ethics standards, including the guidelines and best practices of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), when addressing errors, ethical concerns, and post-publication issues.

Corrections

SPIR recognizes that errors may occasionally occur in published articles. When a significant error is identified that affects the accuracy, interpretation, or indexing of an article, the journal will publish an appropriate correction notice.

Corrections may include:

  • Erratum: Correction of errors introduced during the editorial, production, or publication process.
  • Corrigendum: Correction of errors identified by the authors that affect the published article but do not invalidate its main findings or conclusions.

All corrections will be permanently linked to the original article and clearly identified to ensure transparency and preserve the integrity of the published record. Minor typographical or formatting errors that do not affect the meaning or interpretation of the article may not require a formal correction.

Retractions

SPIR may retract a published article when serious issues are identified that undermine the validity, reliability, or ethical integrity of the research. Retractions are issued to correct the scholarly record and are not intended as punitive measures.

An article may be considered for retraction in cases including, but not limited to:

  • Evidence that the research findings or conclusions are unreliable due to major errors or misconduct;
  • Fabrication, falsification, or manipulation of research data;
  • Plagiarism, duplicate publication, or substantial overlap with previously published work;
  • Serious violations of research ethics or publication standards;
  • Undisclosed conflicts of interest that have materially affected the research or its interpretation;
  • Compromised peer-review processes.

Retraction decisions are made by the Editor-in-Chief in consultation with the editorial team and, where appropriate, external experts. Retraction notices will clearly identify the reason for retraction, remain permanently linked to the original article, and preserve the transparency of the publication record.

Expressions of Concern

If serious concerns arise regarding the integrity or reliability of a published article, but an investigation cannot yet be completed or sufficient evidence for retraction is unavailable, SPIR may publish an Expression of Concern.

An Expression of Concern serves to alert readers that questions have been raised regarding a published article while further investigation is ongoing. It will remain linked to the original publication until a final decision is reached, which may result in a correction, retraction, or no further action.

Post-Publication Concerns

Readers, authors, reviewers, or other stakeholders who identify potential errors or ethical concerns in published articles are encouraged to contact the editorial office. All concerns will be reviewed confidentially and handled according to SPIR’s publication ethics procedures and relevant COPE recommendations.