Accuracy and attribution
Authors are responsible for the accuracy of every submitted statement, reference, figure and dataset. Check sources against the original publications, identify contributions and obtain permission for third-party material.
Integrity of the record
Do not fabricate data, clinical images or references. Describe material image changes and retain originals. Methods must allow readers to understand how the reported observations and results were obtained.
Confidential assessment
Editors and reviewers must protect unpublished work and personal information. Confidential material must not be shared with external services without explicit authorization and appropriate safeguards. The appointed reviewer remains responsible for the assessment.