Cooperation & Liaison between Universities & Editors (CLUE): recommendations on best practice

Abstract Background Inaccurate, false or incomplete research publications may mislead readers including researchers and decision-makers. It is therefore important that such problems are identified rectified promptly. This usually involves collaboration between the institutions academic journals involved, but these interactions can be problematic. Methods These recommendations were developed following discussions at World Conferences on Research Integrity in 2013 2017, a specially convened 3-day workshop 2016 involving participants from 7 countries with expertise publication ethics integrity. The aim to address issues surrounding cooperation liaison (e.g. universities) about possible actual integrity of reported arising before after publication. Results main should: develop mechanisms for assessing (if concerns raised) distinct processes determine whether individual have committed misconduct; release relevant sections reports misconduct investigations all published was investigated; take responsibility performed under their auspices regardless researcher still works institution how long ago work done; funders ensure essential data retained least 10 years. Journals respond cases timely manner; criteria determining whether, what type of, information evidence relating should passed institutions; pass institutions, they intend accept publication; retain peer review records years enable investigation manipulation other inappropriate behaviour by authors reviewers. Conclusions Various difficulties prevent effective hinder correction record if discovered. While solutions vary across different settings, we encourage consider might improve future cases.