Allegation of Research Misconduct

1. Types of Research and Publication Misconduct

BIMA considers allegations involving conduct that may compromise the reliability, originality, or credibility of scholarly research. Such allegations may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Concerns involving undisclosed competing interests are addressed in accordance with BIMA's applicable Conflict of Interest Policy. Allegations are assessed in context, taking into account the nature of the research and the circumstances of the case.

2. Reporting Allegations of Misconduct

Authors, reviewers, editors, readers, and other interested parties who have reasonable grounds to suspect research or publication misconduct may submit a report to the BIMA editorial team through the journal's official contact channel.

Reports should be made in good faith and, where possible, supported by relevant evidence. BIMA will assess each report according to its substance and available information. The identity of the reporter and the details of the allegation will be treated confidentially to the extent reasonably possible, subject to the requirements of a fair assessment and any applicable obligations.

3. Investigation and Evaluation

Upon receiving an allegation, the editor will conduct an initial assessment to determine whether the concern falls within the scope of this policy and whether sufficient information is available for further consideration.

Depending on the nature and complexity of the case, the process may involve the following steps:

1. Preliminary assessment. The editor examines the report and available evidence to determine whether further investigation is warranted.
2. Additional information. The editor may request clarification, original data, research records, source materials, or other relevant documentation.
3. Expert consultation. Where appropriate, independent editors, reviewers, or individuals with relevant expertise may be consulted, provided that they have no conflicts of interest affecting their impartiality.
4. Right of response. The person or persons concerned will be given a reasonable opportunity to respond to the allegations when appropriate to the circumstances and stage of the assessment.
5. Evidence-based evaluation. The editor considers the available evidence, the responses received, and the relevant journal policies before determining the appropriate course of action.

4. Editorial Decisions and Actions

Following an assessment, BIMA will determine an appropriate response based on the strength of the evidence, the nature and seriousness of the conduct, its potential effect on the reliability of the research, and the stage of the publication process.

Depending on the findings, possible actions include:

• Closing the case where the available evidence does not substantiate the allegation.
• Requesting clarification, supporting documentation, corrections, or revisions from the author or authors.
• Rejecting a submitted manuscript when misconduct is established or its scholarly integrity cannot be adequately verified.
• Suspending editorial processing temporarily while material concerns are being assessed.
• Issuing a correction, expression of concern, or retraction for a published article, where justified by the findings and applicable policy.
• Taking other proportionate actions consistent with the journal's policies and the circumstances of the case.

Decisions will be based on the evidence and relevant editorial policies rather than the institutional affiliation, professional position, seniority, or personal relationships of the individuals involved. Where appropriate, the relevant institution or other responsible body may be contacted for further clarification or investigation.

5. Allegations Concerning Published Articles

Allegations involving articles already published in BIMA will be assessed with the same commitment to fairness, confidentiality, and evidence-based decision-making. Publication does not prevent the journal from examining credible concerns that arise after an article has been made publicly available.

If the assessment indicates that a published article requires editorial action, BIMA will follow its applicable Correction and Retraction Policy. Depending on the findings, the journal may publish a correction, issue an expression of concern while significant questions remain unresolved, or retract the article when the integrity or reliability of its findings has been materially compromised.

Any action concerning a published article will be proportionate to the evidence and the seriousness of the identified problem. Relevant notices will provide an appropriate explanation of the action taken, subject to confidentiality and other applicable requirements.

6. Confidentiality, Impartiality, and Protection Against Retaliation

BIMA will take reasonable steps to protect confidential information obtained during the assessment of an allegation. Access to case-related information will be limited, as far as practicable, to individuals who need it to evaluate or resolve the matter.

Anyone involved in reviewing an allegation must disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest that could affect their impartiality. Individuals whose conflicts may compromise an independent assessment will not participate in the relevant evaluation or decision-making.

BIMA does not tolerate retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith or cooperate honestly with an investigation. At the same time, reports will be assessed objectively, and appropriate care will be taken to avoid treating unsubstantiated allegations as established findings of misconduct.