Plagiarism and Similarity Detection Policies

Plagiarism and Similarity Detection Policies

All manuscripts submitted to the journal are mandatorily subjected to similarity checks and plagiarism detection as an integral component of the editorial workflow. These evaluations are conducted prior to the peer review process and, when necessary, at subsequent stages of review or publication.

The journal employs specialized similarity detection software (e.g., Turnitin, iThenticate, or equivalent tools) to provide technical support for editorial analysis. Reports generated by these tools do not automatically determine acceptance or rejection. Interpretation is the responsibility of the editorial team, which evaluates the results using scholarly judgment, considering the context, nature, extent, and location of any identified matches.

Interpretation of Similarity Indexes

Similarity percentages are assessed contextually and serve as guidelines, according to the following general ranges:

Similarity index up to 15%

Typically considered acceptable, provided matches correspond to properly cited quotations, bibliographic references, standardized methodological descriptions, or commonly used technical terminology in the discipline.

Similarity index between 16% and 25%

Subject to editorial review. Authors may be requested to rephrase text, enhance paraphrasing, improve citation practices, or reduce overlaps before the manuscript proceeds in the editorial process.

Similarity index between 26% and 40%

Considered problematic. The manuscript may be returned for substantial revision or rejected, depending on the magnitude, relevance, and location of overlapping content.

Similarity index above 40%

Considered unacceptable and potentially indicative of plagiarism or redundant publication. Such manuscripts will be rejected without proceeding to peer review. If detected post-publication, the article may be subject to correction, expression of concern, or retraction, as appropriate.

Unacceptable Practices

Regardless of the overall similarity percentage, a manuscript may be rejected if any of the following are identified:

  • Unattributed copying of text, ideas, data, tables, or figures.
  • Plagiarism in substantive sections of the manuscript, including results, discussion, or conclusions.
  • Self-plagiarism or redundant publication without proper citation or valid editorial justification.
  • Inappropriate reuse of material previously published under incompatible licenses.
  • Salami slicing, or undue segmentation of research findings.

Procedure in Cases of Suspected Plagiarism

In instances of detected or suspected plagiarism, self-plagiarism, or redundant publication, the editorial team will:

Assess the severity, scope, and context of the case.

Request a formal explanation from the corresponding author, if necessary.

Implement appropriate editorial actions, which may include:

  • Requesting corrections,
  • Rejecting the manuscript,
  • Issuing corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions,
  • Notifying affiliated institutions in cases of significant violations.

All procedures are conducted in accordance with the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines and international best practices in publication ethics.

Declaration of Originality

By submitting a manuscript, authors affirm and guarantee that the work is original, that all sources have been properly cited, and that the content fully complies with the journal’s plagiarism and similarity detection policies. Non-compliance constitutes a serious breach of editorial ethics and may result in corresponding editorial measures.