Post Publication Discussions

The Caucasian Medical Journal recognizes the critical role of ongoing scholarly dialogue and actively encourages constructive post-publication discussions. Such interactions are essential for preserving the integrity, accuracy, and relevance of the scientific literature. This policy outlines the structured procedures and ethical principles guiding the management of post-publication discussions.

Post-publication discussions may involve letters to the editor addressing published articles, corrections or clarifications to existing publications, expressions of concern regarding the integrity of research, or retractions in cases of confirmed ethical violations or substantial errors.

Guidelines for Submitting Letters and Comments

  • Letters or comments must be concise, respectful, and based on credible evidence, addressing significant points of scholarly relevance.
  • Submissions must clearly reference the case report, including its title, author names, publication date, and DOI.
  • Personal accusations, inflammatory statements, or unsubstantiated claims are strictly prohibited.

Review and Editorial Response Procedure

  1. The editorial office receives and acknowledges the submitted letter or comment.
  2. Submissions are evaluated for appropriateness, relevance, and clarity.
  3. If deemed appropriate, the authors of the case report are invited to respond.
  4. Both the letter and the authors' response undergo final editorial assessment.
  5. The Editor-in-Chief, in consultation with the Editorial Board, makes a decision regarding publication.

Corrections and Clarifications Procedure

  1. Errors or ambiguities identified post-publication must be communicated promptly to the editorial office.
  2. The editorial office evaluates the claim and contacts the authors for clarification.
  3. Confirmed minor errors are corrected promptly, with a correction notice published alongside the case report.
  4. Ambiguities or misunderstandings are addressed through clear editorial clarifications linked to the original publication.

Expressions of Concern Procedure

  1. Upon receiving credible concerns regarding ethical integrity, data validity, or research conduct, the editorial team initiates an investigation.
  2. An "Expression of Concern" notice is issued to alert readers while the investigation is ongoing.
  3. Authors are contacted to provide explanations and supporting evidence.
  4. If necessary, the journal collaborates with relevant institutional authorities, following COPE guidelines.

Retractions Procedure

  1. Reports of serious errors, ethical breaches, or misconduct trigger immediate investigation.
  2. Authors are informed and given the opportunity to respond comprehensively.
  3. The Editor-in-Chief and the Editorial Board evaluate all evidence and responses.
  4. Confirmed cases result in a retraction, accompanied by a detailed retraction notice stating the reasons.

Ethical and Responsible Communication

All post-publication discussions must adhere to the highest ethical standards. Confidentiality, fairness, and the protection of all parties' rights are paramount throughout the review and resolution process. Communications must be conducted respectfully and responsibly at all times.

Editorial Transparency and Documentation

The Caucasian Medical Journal is fully committed to transparency in handling post-publication discussions. All decisions and editorial actions are thoroughly documented, and any corrections, clarifications, expressions of concern, or retractions are communicated clearly and promptly to the scientific community.

By rigorously following these procedures, the Caucasian Medical Journal ensures the continuous integrity, accountability, and scholarly advancement of the scientific record.

For the submission of post-publication discussions or further inquiries, please contact the editorial office at editor@caucasianmedj.com.