Conflict of Interest Policy

The National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology (NJPPP) is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and objectivity in scientific research and publication. This policy outlines the journal’s approach to identifying, managing, and mitigating conflicts of interest to preserve the credibility and reliability of published content.

1. Definition of Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest (COI) occurs when the personal, financial, or professional interests of individuals involved in the publication process could compromise—or appear to compromise—the objectivity, integrity, or impartiality of research. Conflicts may involve authors, editors, reviewers, or any party participating in the publication process.

2. Author Responsibilities

2.1. Disclosure

Authors must disclose all potential conflicts of interest that could influence the research, interpretation, or presentation of their work. This includes financial relationships, affiliations, or any associations with organizations that might have an interest in the submitted material.

2.2. Transparency in Funding

Authors are required to clearly identify all sources of funding, grants, or other financial support for their research. Transparent funding disclosure allows readers and reviewers to assess any potential influence of financial sponsors on the study’s outcomes.

2.3. Mitigation Strategies

When conflicts exist, authors should propose measures to address and manage them—such as clear disclosure statements, acknowledgments of potential bias, or other steps that promote transparency and accountability.

3. Editor Responsibilities

3.1. Evaluation of Manuscripts

Editors must evaluate all submissions objectively. They should recuse themselves from handling a manuscript if they have any personal, financial, or professional relationship with the authors that could affect impartiality.

3.2. Fair and Impartial Decision-Making

Editorial decisions must be based solely on the scientific merit and relevance of the manuscript. If conflicts are identified, editors should take appropriate action, such as assigning an independent editor or seeking additional reviews.

3.3. Transparency in Editorial Decisions

Editors are expected to disclose any potential conflicts and ensure that all editorial decisions are made transparently, maintaining fairness and trust in the publication process.

4. Reviewer Responsibilities

4.1. Impartial Evaluation

Reviewers must conduct evaluations objectively and avoid any bias stemming from personal, financial, or professional factors.

4.2. Disclosure of Conflicts

Reviewers should promptly inform the editorial team of any potential conflicts of interest. If a conflict is discovered after accepting a review assignment, the reviewer must immediately notify the editor to allow reassignment.

4.3. Confidentiality and Integrity

Reviewers must treat all manuscripts as confidential. Unpublished materials may not be used for personal advantage or shared with others.

5. Publisher Responsibilities

5.1. Transparency in Operations

The publisher of NJPPP is committed to maintaining transparency across all operations. Any potential conflicts of interest involving the publisher, editors, or other stakeholders will be disclosed promptly.

5.2. Safeguarding Independence

The publisher guarantees the editorial team’s independence from external or financial influences. All editorial decisions are based exclusively on the quality, originality, and relevance of submitted research.

6. Conflict Resolution

6.1. Resolution Process

When conflicts of interest are identified, NJPPP will initiate a fair and transparent resolution process. This may include investigation, consultation with relevant parties, and implementation of appropriate corrective actions.

6.2. Editorial Board Involvement

The editorial board plays an active role in resolving conflicts. In collaboration with relevant stakeholders, the board ensures all resolutions are fair, impartial, and aligned with the journal’s ethical standards.

7. Continuous Education and Policy Review

7.1. Training and Awareness

NJPPP provides ongoing training and resources for authors, editors, and reviewers to enhance awareness and understanding of conflict of interest issues. These efforts reinforce a culture of ethical responsibility and transparency.

7.2. Periodic Review

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure continued effectiveness and alignment with international best practices in scholarly publishing. Updates will be communicated transparently to all stakeholders.