Plagiarism Policy

Plagiarism Policy — AIDSAE


Effective date: 22/02/2026

AIDSAE is committed to publishing original, credible research. Plagiarism and related misconduct undermine the scholarly record and will not be tolerated. This policy explains what AIDSAE considers plagiarism, how we screen submissions, and what actions we take when concerns arise.

1) What AIDSAE Considers Plagiarism

AIDSAE defines plagiarism as presenting another person’s words, ideas, data, images, or intellectual output as one’s own without proper acknowledgement. This includes:

1.1 Direct (verbatim) plagiarism

Copying text word-for-word from another source without quotation and citation.

1.2 Mosaic / patchwork plagiarism

Mixing copied phrases, sentences, or structure from one or more sources with minor edits (including paraphrase-without-citation).

1.3 Paraphrasing without attribution

Rewriting another author’s ideas in different words but failing to cite the original source.

1.4 Self-plagiarism / redundant publication

Reusing substantial parts of one’s own previously published work without proper citation or without clear justification (including duplicate submission, “salami slicing,” or publishing the same results in multiple places).

1.5 Figure, table, and image plagiarism

Reusing figures, tables, diagrams, maps, or images without permission (where needed) and proper attribution, including reuse of copyrighted material.

1.6 Data plagiarism

Using datasets, code, or model artefacts created by others without acknowledgement, permission, or licensing compliance.

2) Acceptable Similarity vs. Unacceptable Plagiarism

Some similarity is expected in scholarly writing (e.g., standard terminology, methods descriptions, references, and short phrases). However, AIDSAE considers similarity unacceptable when:

  • substantial text is copied without quotation and citation,
  • the manuscript’s structure/wording closely follows another work, or
  • reused material (text, figures, tables, code) is not properly attributed.

Important: Similarity percentages alone do not determine plagiarism. AIDSAE evaluates the type, location, and extent of overlap.

3) Screening and Detection

AIDSAE may screen submissions for plagiarism at any stage, including:

  • upon initial submission (pre-review),
  • during peer review (if reviewers raise concerns),
  • after acceptance (pre-publication checks), or
  • after publication (post-publication concerns).

AIDSAE may use similarity-checking tools and manual assessment.

4) Author Responsibilities

By submitting to AIDSAE, authors confirm that:

  • the work is original and properly cited,
  • all reused text or materials are clearly attributed and compliant with permissions/licences,
  • any overlap with preprints, theses, conference papers, or earlier publications is disclosed,
  • all authors have reviewed and approved the final manuscript.

If a manuscript extends prior work, authors must clearly explain what is new and cite the earlier work.

5) Handling Suspected Plagiarism (Editorial Actions)

When plagiarism is suspected, AIDSAE may take one or more of the following actions depending on severity:

5.1 Minor overlap (often correctable)

Examples: limited unattributed paraphrasing, missing citations, or small overlap in background text.
Action: Return to authors for correction, rephrasing, and proper citation.

5.2 Moderate overlap (serious concerns)

Examples: repeated copied passages, extensive patchwork writing, major overlap in methods/results, or unclear reuse of figures/tables.
Action: Desk reject or pause review; request an explanation and revised manuscript; may require documented permissions for reused content.

5.3 Severe plagiarism / duplicate publication

Examples: large portions copied, duplicated results, stolen figures/data/code, or submission of previously published work as new.
Action: Immediate rejection and possible notification of the authors’ institution or funder, where appropriate.

6) Post-Publication Plagiarism

If plagiarism is discovered after publication, AIDSAE may:

  • publish a correction or notice,
  • issue an Expression of Concern, or
  • retract the article,

depending on the seriousness of the issue and the reliability of the record. Retractions and notices remain part of the permanent record and are linked to the article.

7) Preprints, Theses, and Conference Papers

AIDSAE allows submission of manuscripts previously posted as preprints. Authors must disclose the preprint link/DOI at submission and ensure that the manuscript appropriately cites any earlier versions.

Theses/dissertations or conference versions may be considered if:

  • the journal submission contains substantial improvements, and
  • prior versions are clearly cited and disclosed.

8) Use of AI Tools and Plagiarism

AI tools may generate text that closely mirrors existing sources. Authors remain fully responsible for ensuring:

  • originality of text and ideas,
  • accurate citations,
  • no invented references,
  • no copied/patchwork passages.

Manuscripts that appear to contain extensive AI-generated content without scholarly rigor may be desk rejected.

9) Appeals

Authors may appeal plagiarism-related decisions by submitting a clear, evidence-based explanation and documentation (e.g., permissions, proof of authorship, clarified citations). Appeals are reviewed by senior editorial leadership.

10) Contact

For questions regarding this policy, contact the editorial office