AFNS maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against plagiarism. Integrity in research is fundamental to science, and plagiarism undermines both the credibility of authors and the trust of readers. This policy sets out how the journal defines, detects, and responds to plagiarism in all its forms.

Definition of Plagiarism

Plagiarism is the appropriation of another person’s work, ideas, or words without proper acknowledgment. It includes:

• Direct Plagiarism: Copying text or data verbatim without citation.
• Mosaic Plagiarism: Borrowing phrases or structure from a source while substituting words or rearranging order.
• Self-Plagiarism: Republishing significant parts of one’s own previously published work without citation or justification.
• Data Plagiarism: Presenting data, images, or figures created by others as one’s own.

Detection Methods

All submitted manuscripts are screened using recognized plagiarism detection software (such as iThenticate or Turnitin) before peer review. Editors also evaluate similarity reports manually, considering disciplinary conventions and acceptable reuse (e.g., standard methods sections).

Acceptable Similarity Thresholds

A similarity index below 15% is generally acceptable, provided overlaps are limited to references, standard terminologies, or commonly used phrases. Higher similarity scores trigger closer editorial scrutiny, and authors may be asked for clarification or revision.

Consequences of Plagiarism

When plagiarism is detected:

• Before Publication: Manuscripts are rejected, and authors are informed with a report.
• After Publication: Retractions or corrections are issued, and plagiarism is publicly acknowledged in line with COPE guidelines.
• Institutional Notification: In severe cases, author institutions or funders may be informed.

Author Responsibilities

Authors must:

• Ensure originality in submitted manuscripts.
• Provide proper attribution for all sources, including ideas, text, figures, and data.
• Disclose if parts of the manuscript overlap with prior work and justify such overlaps.

Reviewer and Editor Roles

Reviewers and editors are vigilant in detecting potential plagiarism during peer review. Suspicions are reported promptly to the editorial office, which investigates according to established procedures.

Why This Policy Matters

Plagiarism harms the integrity of scholarship and disrespects the labor of original authors. By enforcing this policy, AFNS protects the credibility of published work, the dignity of its contributors, and the trust of its readership.

Conclusion

Upholding originality is central to AFNS’s mission. Through robust detection, fair enforcement, and education, we strive to nurture a publishing culture that honors creativity, respects intellectual property, and advances science responsibly.