Plagiarism and selfplagiarism

Undoubtedly, the misuse of resources produced by third parties or oneself constitutes one of the most serious offenses in the research field and scientific publishing ethics and probity. This journal deals with the phenomenon through the following mechanisms:

Detection by electronic means: Titles, names of authors, and contents are revised and checked in web browsers (Google, DDG).

Specialized Open-Source tools are also used, such as: plagiarism (http://plagiarism-detect.com/) and Turnitin (http://turnitin.com/). The advice and guidelines provided by HTW (http://plagiat.htw-berlin.de/software-en/test2013/), main initiative on the matter it is also considered.

Detection of style by means of cross-checking paragraphs identified as suspicious. This work is entrusted to our executive editorial team.

Additionally, presumptions, or judgments of (self) plagiarism and other forms of misconduct use of previous productions, are subject to the following procedure:
• The journal’s Executive Editorial Committee will evaluate the act under suspect or breach.
• Authors are informed about the suspicion or charge of plagiarism (data and proof are provided).
• The deadline for clarifications and appealing is notified. The deadline cannot be changed, unless reasons of force majeure are provided, and will not be longer than 30 calendar days from the moment of notification to the authors.
• Clarifications and evidence from the authors accused are assessed if necessary.
• The Executive Committee issues a resolution and final decision about the paper called into question within 60 days. The verdict will not be open to appeal.

All the procedures will be written and duly backed up in the management files of the journal. If necessary, the Executive Committee may require the advice or opinion of experts outside the publishing body in order to have elements for a better resolution.

The only penalty for authors who have committed plagiarism or self-plagiarism (and that have not provided clear and conclusive evidence for their case) will be the prohibition to submit new manuscripts to the journal for 3 years. The journal reserves the right to publish the results of the process and/or refer the case to other relevant administrative and legal organisms, depending on the nature and effects of the same.

*Note: This journal will follow the guidelines set by COPE to define and qualify misconducts.