Plagarism Policy

Plagiarism Screening

Submitted manuscripts undergo originality checks using appropriate plagiarism detection tools. Similarity reports are examined by the editorial team to identify potentially problematic overlap, unattributed material, duplicate content, and other concerns requiring further investigation.

Similarity Index Threshold

Manuscripts showing a similarity index above the journal's applicable screening range of 18–25%, excluding references and properly cited quotations where appropriate, may undergo additional editorial assessment.

Depending on the nature and extent of the overlap, manuscripts may be returned for revision or rejected. Similarity percentages are not treated as conclusive proof of plagiarism.

Forms of Plagiarism

Plagiarism and related misconduct may include direct copying without attribution, improper paraphrasing, unauthorized reproduction of data or images, unattributed use of ideas, substantial text recycling, duplicate publication, and misrepresentation of authorship or scholarly contributions.

Self-Plagiarism and Text Recycling

Authors must appropriately disclose and reference their previously published work when reusing relevant material. Substantial undisclosed duplication of previously published content, misleading presentation of existing findings as new research, or redundant publication may constitute unacceptable publication practices.

Proper Citation and Attribution

Authors must accurately cite all relevant sources and acknowledge the contributions of other researchers. Direct quotations must be clearly identified, while paraphrased information must be appropriately attributed to its original source.

Minor Similarity Concerns

Minor or unintentional overlap may be addressed through manuscript revision, improved citations, clearer quotation practices, or appropriate rewriting. Authors may be requested to provide clarification and submit a corrected manuscript for further review.

Serious Plagiarism Violations

Substantial plagiarism, deliberate misrepresentation, repeated unethical practices, or serious research misconduct may result in manuscript rejection or further editorial investigation.

Where justified by documented evidence and applicable procedures, additional action may include institutional notification or proportionate restrictions on future submissions.

Post-Publication Plagiarism

If plagiarism or serious originality concerns are discovered after publication, the editorial team may investigate the matter and determine whether a correction, expression of concern, or retraction is appropriate.

Decisions are based on available evidence and recognized publication ethics principles, including relevant COPE guidance.

Author Responsibilities

Authors bear primary responsibility for the originality, accuracy, and proper attribution of their submitted work. They must ensure that manuscripts do not contain unauthorized reproduced material or undisclosed duplicate content.

Authors are expected to cooperate with reasonable editorial requests for clarification or supporting documentation.

Appeals and Editorial Review

Authors may submit a written appeal against a plagiarism-related editorial decision, supported by relevant explanations and evidence.

Appeals are reviewed by the editorial board or an appropriate independent editor. The journal seeks to ensure fair assessment, confidentiality, and proportionate editorial decisions.