Publication Ethics Policy

The Annals of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ACGH) is committed to upholding the highest standards of publication ethics. Our policy is guided by the COPE Core Practices, ICMJE Recommendations, and WAME Guidelines.

This policy defines the ethical standards expected from authors, reviewers, and editors to ensure fairness, transparency, and integrity in scholarly publishing.

Editorial Responsibilities

Make impartial editorial decisions based solely on scientific merit
Maintain confidentiality of submitted manuscripts and reviewer identities
Avoid conflicts of interest in handling submissions
Ensure corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern are issued when necessary

Author Responsibilities

Submit only original and unpublished work
Cite all relevant sources accurately and completely
Disclose all conflicts of interest and funding sources
Obtain ethical approval for research involving humans or animals
Include as co-authors all individuals who made significant contributions

Reviewer Responsibilities

Provide fair, objective, and timely evaluations of manuscripts
Maintain strict confidentiality of manuscript content
Declare any conflicts of interest that may bias their review
Alert editors to suspected plagiarism, data fabrication, or ethical concerns

Research Misconduct

ACGH takes all forms of research misconduct seriously, including but not limited to plagiarism, data falsification, duplicate submission, and unethical experimentation. Suspected cases are investigated in accordance with COPE flowcharts, and may result in rejection, retraction, or reporting to relevant authorities.

Corrections & Retractions

When significant errors or ethical breaches are identified, ACGH will publish corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions as appropriate. This ensures the accuracy, reliability, and transparency of the scholarly record.

References & Standards

Last updated: 2025-08-20