Authorship Criteria

In accordance with the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) guidelines, authorship is determined by meeting four key criteria: (1) conceptualization and study design, (2) data collection, (3) manuscript writing and critical review, and (4) accountability for the authenticity and integrity of the entire research process. All individuals listed as authors must meet all four of these criteria. Co-authors are required to clearly declare their specific roles and contributions to the research.

Individuals who do not fulfill all four criteria should be acknowledged rather than listed as authors. In cases where there is a disagreement regarding authorship eligibility, the relevant institution(s) where the research was conducted rather than the journal editor should be consulted for resolution.

If a corresponding author requests the addition, removal, or reordering of authors after manuscript submission, the editor will seek a signed statement from all listed authors, including the concerned author, to confirm agreement and approval.

The corresponding author is responsible for communication with the journal throughout the manuscript submission, peer review, and publication processes. This individual ensures that all administrative requirements—such as the submission of authorship details, ethics committee approval, clinical trial registration, and disclosures of relationships and activities—are properly completed and reported.

The maximum number of authors for any manuscript is limited to six. In exceptional cases, the corresponding author may request approval to exceed this limit, subject to justification and approval by a committee comprising the Chief Editor and Managing Editors.