Conflict of Interest Policy
The Journal of Clinical Medical Research (JCMR) is deeply committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and objectivity in scientific research and publication. Our Conflict of Interest Policy is carefully crafted to articulate our unwavering dedication to identifying, managing, and mitigating conflicts of interest, thus safeguarding the credibility and reliability of the content we publish.
- Definition of conflict of interest
A conflict of interest arises when personal, financial, or professional interests of individuals involved in the publication process may compromise the objectivity, integrity, or impartiality of the research and its dissemination. These conflicts can be real or perceived and may involve authors, editors, reviewers, or any other party contributing to the publication process.
- Author responsibilities
2.1. Disclosure
Authors submitting manuscripts to JCMR are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest that could influence the research, interpretation, or presentation of their work. This encompasses financial interests, affiliations, or relationships with organizations that may have a direct or indirect interest in the submitted content.
2.2. Transparency in funding
Authors must provide transparent information about funding sources for their research, including full disclosure of financial support, grants, or any other financial relationships that may have influenced the research. This transparency enables readers and reviewers to assess the potential impact of funding sources on the study.
2.3. Mitigation strategies
In cases where conflicts of interest exist, authors are encouraged to propose mitigation strategies to address and manage these conflicts. Such strategies may include clear disclosure statements within the manuscript, acknowledgment of potential biases, or other measures to ensure transparency.
- Editor responsibilities
3.1. Evaluation of manuscripts
Editors at JCMR are tasked with evaluating submitted manuscripts objectively and without bias. Editors should recuse themselves from handling a manuscript if they have a personal, financial, or professional relationship with the authors that may compromise their impartiality.
3.2. Fair and impartial decision-making
Editors must base editorial decisions solely on the scientific merit of the manuscript, irrespective of the authors’ affiliations or potential conflicts of interest. If conflicts are identified during the review process, editors should take appropriate actions, such as seeking additional reviews or consulting with other members of the editorial board.
3.3. Transparency in editorial decisions
In instances where conflicts of interest among editors exist, transparency in the decision-making process is paramount. Editors should openly communicate any potential conflicts and take steps to mitigate their impact, ensuring that the publication process remains fair and unbiased.
- Reviewer responsibilities
4.1. Impartial evaluation
Reviewers play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of the peer-review process. They are expected to conduct evaluations objectively, without personal, financial, or professional biases that could influence their assessment of the manuscript.
4.2. Disclosure of conflicts
Reviewers must promptly disclose any conflicts of interest to the editorial team. If a potential conflict is identified after accepting a review assignment, reviewers should immediately inform the editor, allowing for appropriate actions, such as reassignment of the review.
4.3. Confidentiality and integrity
Reviewers are expected to treat the review process with confidentiality and integrity. Any information obtained during the review process should be handled responsibly, and reviewers should refrain from using unpublished information for personal gain or biased decision-making.
- Publisher responsibilities
5.1. Transparency in operations
The publisher of JCMR is committed to maintaining transparency in its operations. Any potential conflicts of interest involving the publisher, editorial team, or any other stakeholders that may impact the publication process will be promptly disclosed.
5.2. Safeguarding independence:
The publisher ensures that editorial decisions are made independently of any external influences, financial or otherwise. The editorial team is empowered to make decisions solely based on the quality and relevance of the research.
- Conflict resolution:
6.1. Resolution process:
JCMR has established a comprehensive conflict resolution process. This process involves a thorough investigation, consultation with relevant parties, and the implementation of appropriate measures to address and resolve conflicts.
6.2. Editorial board involvement
The editorial board plays a pivotal role in conflict resolution. If conflicts arise at any stage of the publication process, the editorial board, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, will actively work towards fair and impartial resolution.
- Continuous education and training
7.1. Training programs
To enhance awareness and understanding of conflicts of interest, JCMR provides ongoing training programs for authors, editors, reviewers, and other individuals involved in the publication process. These programs aim to reinforce ethical standards and promote a culture of transparency and integrity.
7.2. Periodic review
The Conflict of Interest Policy undergoes periodic reviews to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. Updates and modifications are made as needed to address emerging challenges and align with evolving best practices in the field of scientific publishing.
By adhering to these comprehensive guidelines, JCMR remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards in scientific research and publication. We are dedicated to fostering integrity, transparency, and objectivity in every aspect of the publication process, thereby ensuring the credibility and reliability of the scientific literature we disseminate.
