Q: What should I do if a reference is “not validated”?

A: This can occur when the reference is not from a source indexed in Scopus, PubMed or CrossRef, or if there is an error in the reference. In case of the latter, in order to prevent delays in production please update the reference by following the steps indicated in the video [02:10 – 02:23].

Q: What should I do if a reference is flagged retracted and I was not aware?

A: You should review the retraction notice and determine whether your own research is impacted by the new status of the referenced work. If you still wish to include the reference, you should provide an explanation for doing so, ideally this should be clear within the manuscript body to ensure transparency for readers.

Q: Do I need to take any action if a reference is flagged retracted and I was already aware and intended to reference the retracted work?

A: It is best practice to cite the retraction notice of a retracted work rather than the work itself. If you need to update the reference to point to the retraction notice, you can do so by following the steps indicated in the video [02:10 – 02:23]. You should provide an explanation for including the reference, ideally within the manuscript body to ensure transparency for readers.

Q: What should I do if I notice a reference was retracted for a manuscript I am reviewing?

A: First, check whether the author has provided a reasonable explanation for including the reference. If not, you should indicate this in your reviewer report to alert the editor and author, recommending that an explanation for including the reference is provided if it will be retained.

Q: What should I do if I notice a reference was retracted for a manuscript I am handling as an editor?

A: First, check whether the author has provided a reasonable explanation for including the reference which may appear in the body of the manuscript or in their cover letter. If not, you should alert the author and ask them to ensure the research is not compromised (see author FAQs above) as well as to explain the reason for including the reference during revision. Ideally this should be clear within the manuscript body to ensure transparency for readers.