An expression of concern informs readers of a serious unresolved question about a published article when the evidence is not yet sufficient for a final correction or retraction decision. It is an interim statement about uncertainty in the scholarly record and does not by itself establish misconduct.

When a notice may be appropriate

The journal may use a notice where an investigation is continuing, important evidence is inconclusive, or a necessary investigation is unavailable or substantially delayed. The editor considers whether the concern could materially affect the interpretation or reliability of the article and whether readers need timely information while the facts are established.

A notice is not normally warranted by an unsupported allegation or ordinary disagreement over a theory, method, or policy position. The question must be sufficiently specific and serious to justify alerting users of the article.

Assessment and content

Editors review the available evidence and seek explanations and supporting records where appropriate. Independent advice or institutional investigation may be needed. The notice identifies the affected article and the nature of the concern, distinguishing documented facts from matters that remain unresolved. Personal and confidential information is limited to what readers need to understand the issue.

Resolution and citation

The notice is linked to the article and remains part of its publication history. When sufficient evidence becomes available, the journal documents the outcome through a resolution, correction, or retraction as appropriate. Readers should consult both the article and its linked notices before relying on the findings, and describe the unresolved status accurately when relevant to a citation.

Authors who identify a significant problem should notify the Editorial Office promptly. Procedures for Corrections and Retractions describe the possible final responses.