1. Definition of Plagiarism

Plagiarism refers to the presentation of another person's ideas, words, data, images, or methods as one’s own without proper attribution. This includes the reproduction of text, figures, tables, or concepts without acknowledgment, as well as improper or incomplete citation. JAEM considers plagiarism a serious breach of scholarly ethics.

Types of plagiarism addressed by JAEM include:

• Direct plagiarism: copying text verbatim without citation.
• Mosaic plagiarism: borrowing phrases or ideas with minor modifications without attribution.
• Self-plagiarism: reusing significant parts of an author’s previously published work without disclosure.
• Data or idea plagiarism: using unpublished data or ideas obtained from peer review or other sources without permission.

2. Plagiarism Screening Procedures

JAEM conducts a mandatory similarity check on all submitted manuscripts using reputable plagiarism-detection software. The screening is performed during the initial editorial assessment before the manuscript is sent for peer review.

Similarity reports are evaluated by the editorial team, taking into account:

• properly cited quotations,
• common methodological or technical phrases,
• discipline-specific terminology.

Manuscripts with excessive similarity or suspicious patterns will be returned to the authors for revision or may be rejected immediately depending on severity.

3. Acceptable Similarity Threshold

JAEM generally applies an acceptable similarity limit of ≤ 20% (excluding references and properly quoted text). However, editorial discretion is applied, especially for manuscripts containing standard terminology, formulas, or descriptions of established methods.

Manuscripts exceeding this threshold, or exhibiting sections with high similarity to previously published work, will require revision or may be rejected.

4. Editorial Actions for Detected Plagiarism

If plagiarism is detected at any stage of the publication process, the journal will take appropriate action based on the severity of the violation. Possible outcomes include:

• Minor Overlap: Authors are requested to revise the manuscript and provide proper attribution.
• Moderate Plagiarism: Manuscript is rejected with an explanation to the authors.
• Severe or Intentional Plagiarism: Immediate rejection, prohibition from future submission for a defined period, and possible notification to authors’ institutions.

For published articles where plagiarism is discovered post-publication, JAEM may issue corrections, expressions of concern, or retract the article.

5. Self-Plagiarism Policy

Authors must disclose if any part of the manuscript has appeared previously in conference proceedings, preprints, or other formats. Significant reuse of text, data, or figures without attribution constitutes self-plagiarism and is not permitted. Authors must cite their earlier work when reusing concepts or data and must ensure the manuscript offers substantial new contributions.

6. Responsibilities of Authors

Authors are responsible for ensuring that:

• all sources are cited accurately and completely;
• quoted material is properly identified and referenced;
• submitted manuscripts are original and free from plagiarism;
• all co-authors are aware of and approve the final version of the manuscript.

Authors must respond to any editorial inquiries regarding similarity findings and must provide revisions or explanations as required.

7. Responsibilities of Reviewers and Editors

Reviewers and editors are encouraged to report any suspected plagiarism during the evaluation process. The editorial team will investigate all reports thoroughly and confidentially. JAEM follows recognized ethical guidelines when handling suspected ethical violations and ensures fair, evidence-based decision-making.

8. Post-Publication Concerns

If plagiarism is identified after publication, JAEM will conduct an investigation. Depending on the outcome, the journal may issue a correction, expression of concern, or a full retraction. Such notices will be made publicly accessible and linked to the original article.