If there is insufficient evidence to determine misconduct or errors, what is the recommended course of action?

When there is insufficient evidence to definitively determine misconduct or errors in a publication, issuing an "expression of concern" is an appropriate course of action. This approach serves multiple purposes.

First, it acknowledges the potential issues with the publication without making unfounded accusations of misconduct. It conveys to the scientific community and the readers that there are concerns that may affect the validity or reliability of the findings presented, prompting them to interpret the paper with caution.

Second, an expression of concern can encourage transparency and open dialogue among stakeholders, including the authors, the journal, and the readers. It invites authors to clarify the issues raised and provides an opportunity to address those concerns potentially, which can foster accountability.

Lastly, it maintains the integrity of the scientific record while also allowing for the circulation of important information about potential problems without prematurely retracting the publication when evidence is lacking. This helps in preserving the trust in the publication process and in the scientific literature itself.