Journal Medical Libanais (JML) is committed to maintaining the accuracy, integrity, and reliability of the scholarly record. The journal recognizes that errors may occasionally occur in published articles and is committed to correcting the scientific literature promptly, transparently, and responsibly. The journal follows the recommendations of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) when handling corrections, retractions, expressions of concern, and other post-publication updates.

Corrections

A correction may be published when an article contains an error that affects the accuracy, clarity, or completeness of the publication but does not invalidate the overall findings or conclusions of the research.

Corrections may be issued for, but are not limited to:

• Errors in author names, affiliations, or contact information.
• Minor inaccuracies in data, figures, tables, or references.
• Typographical or formatting errors that affect interpretation.
• Missing acknowledgements, funding information, or conflict of interest disclosures.
• Other factual errors identified after publication.

Corrections will be published as a separate, citable notice and will be electronically linked to the original article. The original article will remain part of the scholarly record, with a clear indication that a correction has been issued.

Retractions

A published article may be retracted when there is clear evidence that its findings are unreliable or when serious breaches of publication ethics have occurred. Retraction is intended to correct the scientific record and inform readers that the article should not be relied upon.

Reasons for retraction may include, but are not limited to:

• Research misconduct, including data fabrication or falsification.
• Plagiarism or extensive textual duplication.
• Duplicate or redundant publication.
• Serious methodological or analytical errors that invalidate the findings.
• Unethical research involving human participants or animals.
• Peer review manipulation.
• Undisclosed conflicts of interest that significantly affect the integrity of the publication.
• Copyright infringement or unauthorized use of published material.
• Any other serious violation of the journal's publication ethics policies.

Expressions of Concern

Where there is credible evidence of potential research misconduct or significant concerns regarding a published article, but the investigation has not yet been completed or the available evidence is inconclusive, the journal may publish an Expression of Concern. This notice will remain associated with the article until the investigation is concluded and an appropriate editorial decision has been made.

Investigation Process

All reports of errors or alleged misconduct are investigated by the Editorial Office in a fair, objective, and confidential manner. Authors may be asked to provide explanations, supporting documentation, or original research data. Where appropriate, the journal may consult reviewers, editorial board members, independent experts, or the authors' affiliated institutions.

Investigations are conducted in accordance with the recommendations and COPE Flowcharts, ensuring due process and impartial decision-making.

Retraction Notice

When an article is retracted, the journal will publish a formal retraction notice explaining the reason for the retraction. The notice will be permanently linked to the original article and will clearly identify the article being retracted.

The original article will remain accessible as part of the scholarly record but will be clearly marked as "Retracted" to preserve the integrity and transparency of the publication record.

Author-Initiated Corrections

Authors are expected to promptly notify the Editorial Office if they discover significant errors or inaccuracies in their submitted or published work. Authors are required to cooperate fully with the journal during any post-publication investigation and assist in issuing corrections or retractions where necessary.

Editorial Responsibility

The Editor-in-Chief has the final responsibility for decisions regarding corrections, expressions of concern, and retractions. Editorial actions are taken solely to preserve the integrity of the scientific literature and are independent of commercial, institutional, or personal interests.

Compliance with International Standards

Journal Medical Libanais manages post-publication updates in accordance with the recommendations of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE). The journal is committed to ensuring that any corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern are handled promptly, transparently, and consistently, thereby safeguarding the accuracy, credibility, and integrity of the scholarly record.