IJSMF requires authors, reviewers, and editors to disclose relationships or circumstances that could reasonably be perceived as influencing the research, review, editorial decision, or interpretation of findings.
Potential conflicts may include:
- Financial relationships
- Employment or professional relationships
- Personal relationships
- Institutional interests
- Funding arrangements
- Consulting or advisory relationships
- Intellectual property interests
- Other relationships that could influence professional judgment
Disclosure of a conflict does not necessarily prevent publication or participation in the review process. The purpose of disclosure is to promote transparency and allow appropriate editorial decisions.
If no conflict exists, authors may include a statement such as: “The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.”