When is lack of scientific integrity a reason for retracting a paper? A case study

The journal received a request to retract paper reporting the results of triple-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. present and immmediate past editors expand on journal's decision not this in spite undisputable evidence scientific misconduct behalf one investigators. an ethical reflection clinical trial with consideration relevant guidelines from Committee Publication Ethics (COPE) International Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) applied unique contextual issues case. In case, by blinded provider homeopathy intervention attempted undermine study blind. As part study, integrity blind was assessed. Neither participants nor homeopaths were able identify whether participant assigned homeopathic medicine or placebo. Central fact that rigorous design provided outcome affected misconduct. itself thought be insufficient reason paper. Retracting which is still valid considered unethical, as it takes away opportunity benefit its results, rendering whole useless. such cases, better handled through other professional channels.