Standards of Publication Integrity

At ScienceHood, our editorial team is unwavering in its dedication to maintaining exemplary ethical standards and implementing a comprehensive peer-review process. We prioritize the publication of high-quality scientific research while upholding the integrity of the scientific community and ensuring the protection of research participants. We take all ethical concerns seriously and conduct thorough investigations to address any issues that arise.

Comprehensive Manuscript Evaluation

Each manuscript submitted to ScienceHood undergoes a meticulous peer review to ensure it adheres to our rigorous academic criteria. Initially, the editorial team evaluates the manuscript for its suitability within our publication. Upon approval, confidential peer reviewers are engaged to examine the manuscript’s quality, significance, and relevance to the field. In cases where ethical, security, biosecurity, or societal concerns are identified, our Research Integrity team may consult with additional experts or specialized reviewers, which can result in manuscript rejection if necessary.

Strict Anti-Plagiarism Policy

ScienceHood enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding plagiarism, encompassing unauthorized use of text, ideas, images, or data from any source. Text that is reused from existing works must be properly quoted and attributed. Manuscripts drawing on previous research must clearly acknowledge those sources. Detection of plagiarism during the peer review may lead to rejection, while instances uncovered post-publication may result in corrections or retractions. To maintain academic integrity, we employ iThenticate software to identify instances of text duplication, and any alteration of images that misrepresents original data is strictly forbidden.

Commitment to Data Authenticity

We require that all data presented in manuscripts be original and accurately reflect research findings. This includes avoiding selective data omission, fabrication, and inappropriate analytical practices. We strongly encourage authors to preregister their methods and analyses to uphold transparency and prevent potential data manipulation.

Policy on Duplicate Submissions and Redundant Publications

ScienceHood only accepts original manuscripts that have not been previously published elsewhere, including translations. Authors must ensure that manuscripts are withdrawn from consideration at other journals prior to submission. Any previously published work that informs the new manuscript must be cited, and new content must be clearly differentiated. While extended versions of conference papers are permitted, they must contain substantial new content and appropriate permissions. We discourage redundant publication or "salami slicing" of findings, as such practices may result in rejection or merging of submissions.

Prohibition of Citation Manipulation

Authors should refrain from including citations solely to inflate citation counts for particular authors or journals. Similarly, editors and reviewers are strictly prohibited from soliciting such citations for the purpose of enhancing citation metrics.

Consequences of Fabrication and Falsification

Any evidence of data fabrication or falsification, including improper image manipulation, will result in serious repercussions, including possible sanctions and retraction of the article.

Guidelines for Authorship and Acknowledgments

ScienceHood follows the authorship guidelines established by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE). All contributors must have made significant contributions to the work, engaged in critical revisions, approved the final version, and assumed responsibility for all aspects of the manuscript. Individuals who do not meet these criteria should receive acknowledgment with their consent. Any changes to authorship must be agreed upon by all authors and will be executed at the discretion of ScienceHood.

Copyright and Licensing Provisions

Authors retain copyright over their articles published in ScienceHood journals, which are licensed under the Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 license. This license permits free access and reuse of the work, provided proper citation is given. In exceptional cases, alternative licensing arrangements can be discussed upon request. Authors must obtain permission for the reproduction of any materials not in the public domain or not owned by them.

Guidelines for Translations

Translated versions of articles may be considered for publication if all original authors are credited, necessary permissions are obtained, and the original work is adequately cited. Documentation of permissions must be submitted alongside the manuscript.

Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest

Authors are required to disclose any conflicts of interest (COIs) that could affect the objectivity of their research. All potential COIs and sources of funding must be clearly stated. Editors and reviewers must also recuse themselves if they have any conflicts of interest. Undisclosed COIs discovered after publication may necessitate corrections or retractions.

Protocols for Corrections and Retractions

In cases involving significant errors, ethical breaches, or data fabrication, ScienceHood may correct or retract published articles in accordance with COPE guidelines. Retractions will be clearly marked with a "RETRACTED" watermark for transparency, and retraction notices will be published, maintaining the same authorship details to ensure traceability. The complete removal of an article is rare and generally reserved for instances involving illegal content or significant harm.