Plagiarism Policy

The Annals of Dermatological Research (ADR) maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward plagiarism. Upholding originality and integrity in research is a cornerstone of our publishing ethics. This policy outlines the procedures ADR follows in detecting, preventing, and addressing plagiarism and related unethical practices.

ADR screens every submission using advanced plagiarism detection software (such as iThenticate or Turnitin) to ensure originality and compliance with COPE, ICMJE, and WAME guidelines.

Definition of Plagiarism

Plagiarism occurs when an author uses another person’s work, ideas, or words without proper attribution. ADR considers the following as plagiarism:

  • Copying text, figures, or tables without citation.
  • Paraphrasing ideas without crediting the source.
  • Submitting previously published work as new (self-plagiarism).
  • Republishing the same data or findings in multiple journals (duplicate publication).
  • Image manipulation or duplication without acknowledgment.

Screening Process

All submitted manuscripts undergo a plagiarism check before entering the peer review process. Reports are evaluated by the editorial team to determine the level of similarity and potential ethical concerns.

  • Acceptable Similarity Index: Generally ≤15% (excluding references, quotations, and methodological descriptions).
  • Borderline Similarity: 16–25% may be considered acceptable with proper citations and revisions.
  • Unacceptable: >25% similarity is typically rejected or returned to authors for substantial revision.

Types of Plagiarism

  • Verbatim Copying: Direct copying of text without attribution.
  • Mosaic Plagiarism: Mixing copied phrases from multiple sources without credit.
  • Paraphrasing Plagiarism: Rewording others’ work without citation.
  • Self-Plagiarism: Reusing one’s own previously published content without acknowledgment.
  • Data and Figure Manipulation: Altering or duplicating images/data without disclosure.

Sanctions and Consequences

Depending on the severity of the plagiarism detected, ADR may take the following actions:

  • Minor overlap: Authors will be asked to revise and properly cite sources.
  • Significant overlap: Manuscript may be rejected without peer review.
  • Post-publication plagiarism: Retraction of the article, with a statement explaining the reasons.
  • Repeat offenses: Authors may be banned from future submissions.
  • Institutional notification: In cases of serious misconduct, affiliated institutions will be informed.

COPE Guidelines and Procedures

ADR follows the COPE flowcharts for handling suspected plagiarism and misconduct. These procedures ensure transparency, fairness, and due process while addressing ethical violations.

Author Responsibilities

  • Ensure all work submitted is original and properly cited.
  • Provide permissions for reused material (e.g., images, figures).
  • Disclose overlapping submissions or prior publications.

Reviewer and Editor Responsibilities

  • Reviewers must report suspected plagiarism to the editor.
  • Editors must investigate and take appropriate action following COPE protocols.

FAQs

Is similarity due to references considered plagiarism?

No. References, quotations, and common knowledge are excluded from similarity analysis.

Does ADR allow preprint submissions?

Yes, provided the preprint version is declared at submission, and the article is substantially revised before journal publication.

What happens if plagiarism is detected after publication?

ADR will issue a correction, expression of concern, or retraction depending on the severity of the violation.