Plagiarism Detection and Similarity Policy

Plagiarism Detection and Similarity Policy

All manuscripts submitted to the journal are subject to mandatory similarity checking and plagiarism detection processes as an integral part of the editorial procedure. This control is carried out prior to the initiation of the peer review process and, when appropriate, at subsequent stages of evaluation or publication.

The journal uses specialized similarity detection software (such as Turnitin, iThenticate, or equivalent tools) as technical support for editorial analysis. Reports generated by these tools do not, in themselves, constitute an automatic criterion for acceptance or rejection. Their interpretation is the responsibility of the editorial team, which evaluates them through informed academic judgment, taking into account the context, nature, extent, and location of the identified similarities.

Interpretation of Similarity Indexes

Similarity percentages are analyzed in a contextual and indicative manner, according to the following general ranges:

Similarity index up to 15%
Generally considered acceptable, provided that the matches correspond to properly cited quotations, bibliographic references, standardized methodological descriptions, or commonly used technical terminology within the discipline.

Similarity index between 16% and 25%
Subject to editorial review. In such cases, authors may be required to revise the manuscript, improve paraphrasing, strengthen citation practices, or reduce textual overlap 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 extent, relevance, and location of the 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 after 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 practices are identified:

Unattributed copying of text, ideas, data, tables, or figures.
Plagiarism in substantive sections of the manuscript, such as results, discussion, or conclusions.
Self-plagiarism or redundant publication without proper citation or valid editorial justification.
Inappropriate reuse of previously published material under incompatible licenses.
Improper fragmentation of research results (salami slicing).

Procedure in Cases of Suspected Plagiarism

In the event of detection or suspicion of 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 when necessary.
Adopt appropriate editorial measures, which may include:
– Requesting corrections
– Rejecting the manuscript
– Issuing corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions
– Notifying affiliated institutions in cases of serious misconduct

All actions will be conducted in accordance with the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and international best practices in publication ethics.

Statement of Originality

By submitting a manuscript, authors declare and guarantee that the work is original, that all sources have been properly cited, and that the content fully complies with this plagiarism detection and similarity policy. Failure to comply with these principles constitutes a serious breach of editorial ethics and may result in the corresponding actions.