A notice may be considered when readers need warning but available evidence does not yet support a sufficiently definite correction or retraction. Relevant circumstances include:

• Serious unresolved questions about data, analysis, ethical conduct, or assessment integrity.
• An ongoing investigation whose outcome will take substantial time.
• An unavailable, delayed, or inadequately responsive institutional examination.
• Inconclusive evidence that nevertheless provides a sound basis for alerting readers.

Receipt of an allegation or the existence of an investigation does not automatically require a notice. The editor evaluates seriousness, evidence, and the consequences of leaving readers uninformed.

The notice identifies the article, DOI, issuing authority, date, and specific unresolved concern. It distinguishes known facts from matters still under examination and, where appropriate, identifies the affected parts of the article.

Where possible, it explains whether institutional examination has been requested or is ongoing. Confidential personal information and unsubstantiated accusations must not be unnecessarily disclosed.

Authors are normally invited to respond before issuance, unless urgent circumstances justify earlier action. Author agreement is not required. The notice is freely accessible and visibly linked to the article.

The journal reviews the notice when material information becomes available and seeks progress updates where further examination is expected. A concern may remain unresolved when necessary evidence cannot be obtained; its status should be explained.

Resolution may involve a correction, retraction, or a further notice stating that the concern was not substantiated or no longer applies. Earlier notices remain traceable and linked to the resolution rather than silently disappearing.