Plagiarism Detection Policy

Plagiarism and Similarity Detection Policy

All manuscripts submitted to Sage Sphere of Technology, Sciences, Discoveries and Society / Esfera Sabia: Ciencia, Tecnología y Sociedad are subject to mandatory similarity checking as part of the editorial process, prior to peer review and, when necessary, at later stages.

The journal employs specialized similarity detection software (such as Turnitin, iThenticate, or equivalent tools) as technical support for editorial evaluation. Similarity reports do not constitute automatic grounds for acceptance or rejection and are assessed through academic judgment, considering the context, nature, and location of detected overlaps.

Interpretation of Similarity Indexes

  • Up to 15%: Generally acceptable, provided overlaps correspond to properly cited quotations, references, standard methodological descriptions, or common technical terminology.

  • 16%–25%: Subject to editorial review. Authors may be required to revise the manuscript to improve paraphrasing or strengthen citation practices.

  • 26%–40%: Considered problematic. The manuscript may be returned for substantial revision or rejected, depending on the extent and significance of the overlaps.

  • Above 40%: Considered unacceptable and indicative of plagiarism or redundant publication. Such manuscripts are rejected without peer review. If detected post-publication, corrective actions, expressions of concern, or retractions may be applied.

Unacceptable Practices

Regardless of the overall similarity percentage, manuscripts may be rejected if they involve:

  • Unattributed copying of text, ideas, data, tables, or figures.

  • Plagiarism in substantive sections (results, discussion, or conclusions).

  • Self-plagiarism or redundant publication without proper citation or editorial justification.

  • Inappropriate reuse of previously published material under incompatible licenses.

  • Undue fragmentation of research results (“salami slicing”).

Procedures in Cases of Suspected Plagiarism

When plagiarism, self-plagiarism, or redundant publication is suspected, the editorial team will evaluate the case and may request a formal explanation from the authors. Editorial actions may include revision requests, rejection, publication of corrections or retractions, and, in serious cases, notification of affiliated institutions.

All decisions are made in accordance with the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and internationally recognized best practices in scholarly publishing.

Declaration of Originality

By submitting a manuscript, authors certify that the work is original, that all sources are properly cited, and that the manuscript fully complies with this plagiarism and similarity detection policy. Failure to comply constitutes a breach of editorial ethics.