Post-publication Discussions and Corrections Policy

At the Journal of Dental School, we recognize that scientific knowledge evolves over time and that it is important to allow for post-publication discourse and ensure that published articles remain accurate and trustworthy. To uphold transparency, integrity, and the highest ethical standards, we provide structured mechanisms for post-publication discussions, as well as the correction, revision, and retraction of articles when necessary.

1. Post-publication Discussions

We encourage ongoing scientific discourse after articles are published. Authors, readers, and the broader research community are invited to engage in constructive discussions on the findings and interpretations presented in the journal. These discussions may take place through the following channels:

• • Letters to the Editor: Readers are welcome to submit letters to the editor that comment on, critique, or build upon published articles. Letters should be constructive and address scientific content or methodology. The editorial team will review all letters for relevance and tone before publication. Authors of the original articles will be given an opportunity to respond.

2. Post-publication Corrections

Despite rigorous peer review and editorial oversight, errors may occasionally appear in published articles. It is the responsibility of both the authors and the editorial team to correct these errors promptly to ensure the continued accuracy and reliability of the scientific record. Corrections can take the following forms:

• • Errata: Minor errors (e.g., typographical errors, incorrect author details, or small factual inaccuracies that do not affect the overall findings or conclusions of the article) will be addressed through an erratum. The corrected information will be clearly labeled and published in both the print and online versions of the journal.
  • Corrigenda: If authors identify significant errors after publication that could affect the interpretation of the research findings (but do not invalidate the overall results), a corrigendum will be issued. The correction will be linked to the original article and clearly explained for transparency.

3. Revisions and Updates

In cases where additional data or analyses come to light after the initial publication, or where significant parts of the research need updating or elaborating, the following procedures will apply:

• • Post-publication Updates: Authors may submit requests to revise or update their articles to include additional data, corrections to the methodology, or expanded discussions. If the updates substantively affect the original article’s conclusions, the updated version will be reviewed, and a formal update will be issued.
  • Linked Updates: When an update is approved, the updated article will be linked to the original publication, and a notice explaining the nature of the update will be included on the article page.

4. Article Retraction

Retractions are issued when a published article is found to be fundamentally flawed or contains significant issues such as falsified data, plagiarism, or ethical violations that invalidate the findings. The Journal of Dental School follows the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines for retractions, which include the following steps:

• • Retraction Criteria: Retractions will be considered in cases of significant scientific misconduct, gross errors in data or analysis that render the findings unreliable, unethical research practices, or evidence of plagiarism. Additional grounds for retraction include duplicated publication (without proper attribution or permission), failure to disclose conflicts of interest, or serious breaches of ethical standards, such as improper patient consent in medical research.
  • Retraction Procedure: The editorial board will initiate an investigation if concerns about an article are raised by readers, reviewers, or authors themselves. The investigation may involve independent experts to ensure an unbiased assessment. If the investigation confirms that a retraction is necessary, a retraction notice will be published. This notice will explain why the article is being retracted, detailing the nature of the issues (e.g., data fabrication, ethical violations), and it will remain linked to the original article, which will be clearly labeled as "retracted." The retraction will also be noted in any citation databases where the article is indexed, ensuring transparency across platforms. Even though the article is retracted, the original version will remain accessible for academic integrity, but with clear markings that it has been retracted.
  • Author Involvement: Authors will be notified of the retraction and given the opportunity to provide a response. In cases where authors agree to the retraction, the notice will state that the retraction was made in agreement with the authors. In cases of author disagreement, the retraction will still proceed if justified, with the reasons clearly documented in the retraction notice. The retraction process aims to be fair and transparent, allowing authors to present their case. If necessary, COPE guidelines recommend mediation to ensure a balanced resolution. Retractions are handled without delay to minimize further dissemination of flawed findings.
  • Post-Retraction Communication: After a retraction is issued, authors and the journal remain in communication to ensure any ongoing corrections or clarifications are addressed. If an error or oversight in the retraction notice itself is identified, a corrected retraction notice will be issued to maintain transparency. Retractions are a critical part of ensuring the scientific record remains accurate and trustworthy, and COPE guidelines emphasize this as a collaborative process involving all relevant parties.
  • Retention of Retracted Article: The original article remains available online with clear markings indicating its retracted status. This ensures that the retraction process is fully transparent, and that researchers and readers can trace the development and correction of the scientific record.

5. Article Withdrawal

In rare cases, articles may be withdrawn before or after publication. This generally occurs when ethical concerns or legal issues are identified. Withdrawal can be considered if:

• • The article contains defamatory or potentially harmful content.
  • Legal reasons necessitate its removal (e.g., copyright infringement or confidentiality breaches).

In such cases, the article will be removed from the journal's website, but a formal notice of withdrawal will remain to inform readers of the decision.

6. Corrections to Retractions

If an error is identified in a previously issued retraction (e.g., incorrect reasons for the retraction), a corrected retraction notice will be issued to ensure transparency and accuracy.

7. Author and Community Engagement

We encourage authors, reviewers, and the scientific community to remain vigilant in identifying potential errors or issues in published works. Open communication with the editorial office ensures that necessary corrections, revisions, or retractions can be handled promptly and transparently.

8. Adherence to Ethical Standards

The journal adheres strictly to the COPE guidelines and expects all authors and reviewers to do the same. We are committed to maintaining the integrity of the scholarly record and fostering a culture of transparency and ethical publishing.

For any post-publication concerns, please contact our editorial office at [dentaljournal@sbmu.ac.ir].