Plagiarism policy at IgMin Research

Introduction

At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, we uphold the highest standards of academic integrity and ethical publishing. To ensure the credibility and originality of the research published in our journal, we have implemented a robust Plagiarism Policy. This policy is designed to prevent and address any instances of plagiarism and to maintain the integrity of scholarly work within the scientific community.

Elaboration of the Process and Types

Plagiarism is a serious academic misconduct that undermines the principles of integrity and originality in scholarly research. At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of academic ethics and promoting a culture of responsible research conduct. As part of our Plagiarism Policy, we have implemented comprehensive measures to detect and address instances of plagiarism in all submitted manuscripts.

Elaboration of the process

1. Initial submission check: When authors submit their research manuscripts to IgMin Research, our editorial team performs an initial screening to ensure that the submission adheres to the journal's guidelines and ethical standards. During this stage, the manuscript is checked for compliance with formatting requirements, authorship criteria, and the presence of proper citations and references.
2. Cross check plagiarism detection: To identify potential instances of plagiarism, IgMin Research employs advanced plagiarism detection software, such as CrossCheck. This sophisticated tool meticulously compares the submitted manuscript against a vast database of academic journals, publications, books, and online sources. CrossCheck scans the text for similarities and matches with existing literature, identifying any content that appears to be copied or inadequately attributed.
3. Editorial review: Following the initial plagiarism screening, the editorial team conducts a thorough review of the manuscript. This step involves scrutinizing the content for possible ethical violations, including unauthorized use of others' work, inadequate citations, and improper paraphrasing. Editors aim to ensure that the manuscript adheres to the principles of academic honesty and that all sources are accurately credited.
4. Peer review: Upon passing the editorial review, the manuscript undergoes a rigorous peer review process. Independent experts in the relevant field assess the scientific validity, originality, and contribution of the research. Peer reviewers are also vigilant in identifying any potential instances of plagiarism and providing feedback to the authors and editors.
5. Final decision: Based on the outcome of the peer review process and plagiarism assessment, the Editorial Board makes the final decision regarding the publication of the manuscript. If plagiarism or ethical issues are identified, appropriate actions are taken in accordance with the Plagiarism Policy.

Types of plagiarism in the publication industry

1. Verbatim plagiarism: This type of plagiarism involves directly copying and pasting text from a source without proper citation or quotation marks. It is the most evident form of plagiarism and can occur with short phrases, sentences, or entire paragraphs.
2. Paraphrasing plagiarism: Paraphrasing plagiarism occurs when an author rephrases or rewrites someone else's work without providing proper attribution. Even if the text is reworded, it still requires proper citation to acknowledge the original source.
3. Mosaic plagiarism: Mosaic plagiarism, also known as "patchwriting," involves combining copied text with original content to create the appearance of original work. This form of plagiarism often includes minor changes to wording and sentence structure but lacks proper citation for the sources used.
4. Self-plagiarism (Auto-plagiarism): Self-plagiarism occurs when an author republishes their own previously published work without proper citation or disclosure. It can involve reusing entire articles, substantial portions, or overlapping content from previously published papers.
5. Image and figure plagiarism: Plagiarism is not limited to textual content; it also extends to images, figures, tables, and other visual elements. Using such elements from other sources without proper attribution or permission constitutes plagiarism.
6. Ghostwriting: In the publication industry, ghostwriting involves using someone else's work and presenting it as one's own, often without the knowledge or consent of the original author. This unethical practice undermines the principles of authorship and accountability.
7. Salami slicing (Fragmented publication): Salami slicing involves dividing a significant research study into multiple smaller publications to increase the number of published papers artificially. Each paper may lack sufficient originality and scientific merit on its own, leading to an unfair advantage in academic evaluations.
8. Source manipulation: Source manipulation occurs when authors manipulate data or results to align with a specific narrative or desired outcome. It can involve selectively reporting results or omitting conflicting data to misrepresent the study's findings.

By addressing these types of plagiarism and unethical practices, IgMin Research aims to maintain the integrity and credibility of published research while fostering a scholarly environment that promotes originality, transparency, and responsible conduct. Authors, reviewers, and readers alike play a vital role in upholding these ethical standards and ensuring the advancement of knowledge in the diverse fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Plagiarism can be unintentional or deliberate, but it is essential for researchers and authors to uphold the highest ethical standards and ensure their work is original and properly attributed. To avoid various types of plagiarism in academic writing and research, consider the following point-to-point elaboration:

Verbatim plagiarism

1. Always use quotation marks and provide proper citation when directly quoting from another source.
2. If using extensive quotes, ensure they are used sparingly and serve a specific purpose in the context of your research.
3. Paraphrase information in your own words while maintaining the original meaning and cite the source appropriately.

Paraphrasing plagiarism

1. When paraphrasing, use your own words and sentence structures while maintaining the original idea's meaning.
2. Always cite the original source, even if you have rephrased the content.

Mosaic plagiarism

1. Avoid patchwriting or combining copied phrases from different sources without proper citation.
2. When writing, ensure that your work represents your original ideas and analysis.

Self-plagiarism (Auto-plagiarism)

1. If you need to refer to your own previously published work, clearly indicate it and provide proper citation.
2. If reusing figures, tables, or content, obtain permission from the original publisher and cite the work accordingly.

Image and figure plagiarism

1. Obtain permission from the copyright holder to use images, figures, or tables from other sources, even if they are modified or adapted.
2. Provide proper citation and credits for all visual elements used in your research.

Ghostwriting

1. Always acknowledge the contributions of all authors and collaborators involved in the research.
2. Do not claim authorship of work you did not directly contribute to.

Salami slicing (Fragmented publication)

1. Avoid dividing a substantial study into multiple smaller publications without substantial new findings or contributions.
2. Focus on publishing comprehensive and significant research with a clear, cohesive narrative.

Source manipulation

1. Present your research data and results accurately and without manipulation.
2. Include all relevant data, even if it contradicts your initial hypotheses or desired outcomes.
   Additional measures to avoid plagiarism.

Use citation styles and referencing guidelines

1. Familiarize yourself with the citation style required by the journal or institution and apply it consistently throughout your manuscript.

Reference management software

1. Use reference management tools to organize your sources and citations efficiently, reducing the risk of missing attributions.

Check your work with plagiarism detection software

1. Perform a self-check using plagiarism detection tools before submitting your manuscript to ensure originality and proper attribution.

Be transparent about collaborations

1. Clearly acknowledge the contributions of all collaborators in your research, including their specific roles and responsibilities.

Provide permissions and copyrights

1. Obtain necessary permissions and licenses for using copyrighted materials and include proper attributions.

Seek guidance from advisors and mentors

1. Seek advice from experienced researchers and mentors to understand and follow best practices in academic writing and research ethics.

Maintain records of research process

1. Keep detailed records of your research process, including data collection, analysis, and references, to establish the authenticity of your work.

By adhering to these guidelines and ensuring academic integrity, researchers and authors can avoid different types of plagiarism and contribute to a reputable, credible, and responsible academic community.

Through the diligent execution of this plagiarism detection process, IgMin Research remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting ethical publishing and safeguarding the integrity of scholarly research. Our rigorous approach to plagiarism detection contributes to the dissemination of high-quality, innovative, and authentic research that positively impacts the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Submission Requirements

The submission process at IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal is designed to ensure the authenticity and originality of the research manuscripts we receive. As a part of our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity, we have established rigorous guidelines for authors to follow during the submission of their research work. These requirements aim to prevent plagiarism, self-plagiarism, and duplicate submissions, and to uphold the principles of ethical publishing.

Elaboration of the submission requirements

1. Originality verification: Before submitting their manuscripts, authors are expected to conduct a thorough review to ensure the originality of their research. The work should not have been published in any form, including academic journals, conference proceedings, books, or online repositories. Simultaneous submissions to other publications are not permitted. Authors must declare the originality of their work explicitly during the submission process.
2. Authorship and affiliation: The submission should include the complete list of authors who have made significant contributions to the research. All listed authors must have agreed to the manuscript's submission and take collective responsibility for the content. Any changes to the authorship, including the addition or removal of authors, require written consent from all affected parties. The affiliations and contact information of all authors should be clearly stated in the manuscript.
3. Conflicts of interest: Authors must disclose any potential conflicts of interest that could influence the research or its interpretation. These conflicts may arise from financial relationships, professional collaborations, or personal connections that may compromise the objectivity of the research findings. Full transparency in reporting conflicts of interest helps maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of the research.
4. Permissions for copyrighted material: If the manuscript includes copyrighted material such as figures, tables, images, or excerpts from other published works, authors are responsible for obtaining written permission from the original copyright holders. Proper acknowledgment of the sources and permissions should be included in the manuscript.
5. Ethical approvals and informed consent: For research involving human subjects, animals, or potentially hazardous materials, authors must provide evidence of ethical approval from relevant institutional review boards or ethics committees. Informed consent from participants or subjects must also be obtained and documented appropriately.
6. Plagiarism self-check: Authors are encouraged to perform a thorough self-check for plagiarism before submitting their manuscripts. While the journal conducts extensive plagiarism checks, this pre-submission step allows authors to identify and rectify any potential issues in their work. Various online tools are available to assist authors in detecting unintentional similarities and ensuring that the manuscript adheres to the highest ethical standards.
7. Manuscript formatting and style: Authors must adhere to the journal's specific guidelines for manuscript formatting and citation style. The guidelines are available on the journal's website or can be obtained from the editorial office. Proper formatting ensures consistency and clarity in the presentation of the research, facilitating the peer review and publication process.
8. Copyright and licensing: Upon acceptance for publication, authors are required to transfer the copyright of their manuscript to IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal. This ensures that the journal has the necessary rights to disseminate and distribute the research. Authors may retain certain rights through licensing agreements, which will be specified during the publication process.
9. Submission fee and waivers: Some journals may charge a submission fee to cover the costs associated with the peer review process. At IgMin Research, we strive to maintain accessibility to all researchers. Therefore, we offer submission fee waivers or discounts for authors who face financial constraints. Details regarding submission fees and waiver criteria are available on the journal's website.

By adhering to these comprehensive submission requirements, authors contribute to the preservation of academic integrity and ethical publishing standards at IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal. The process ensures that only original, high-quality research is considered for peer review and eventual publication, fostering a scholarly environment that upholds the principles of honesty, transparency, and knowledge advancement.

Proper Attribution

Proper attribution is a fundamental principle of academic integrity and plays a pivotal role in acknowledging the contributions of other researchers, honoring intellectual property rights, and fostering a scholarly environment built on trust and transparency. At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, we place great importance on ensuring that authors adhere to the guidelines for proper attribution to maintain the authenticity and credibility of published research. Here, we outline the key aspects of proper attribution and the process involved in achieving it:

Comprehensive references and citations

1. Authors are required to provide a comprehensive list of references that encompass all sources used in their research. This includes published works, unpublished manuscripts, conference proceedings, and other relevant materials.
2. Each citation must be accurate, complete, and formatted in accordance with the journal's designated citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
3. Citations should include all pertinent information, such as author names, publication titles, journal names, volume numbers, page numbers, and publication dates, to enable readers and reviewers to access the original sources.

Acknowledging direct quotations

1. When directly quoting from a source, authors must use quotation marks to indicate the verbatim replication of the text.
2. The quoted material must be followed by an in-text citation that provides the source's details, allowing readers to verify the original context.

Proper paraphrasing

1. •Authors may paraphrase or rephrase the ideas and findings of other researchers, but doing so requires proper citation.
2. •Paraphrased content should not simply replace a few words with synonyms; it should be a genuine rewording that maintains the original meaning while expressing it in the author's own words.
3. •The paraphrased content must still be accompanied by an in-text citation indicating the original source.

Data attribution

1. Proper attribution extends beyond textual content and includes data, figures, tables, and images obtained from other sources.
2. Authors must provide clear and appropriate credit to the creators of any data or visual elements used in their research.
3. Permissions to use copyrighted or proprietary data should be obtained from the original creators or copyright holders, and appropriate acknowledgments should be included in the manuscript.

Understanding creative commons licenses

1.  Authors must be familiar with Creative Commons licenses and adhere to their requirements when using content under such licenses.
2. Various Creative Commons licenses allow different levels of reuse and adaptation, and authors should appropriately attribute the content and respect the terms specified by the license.

Unpublished and personal communications

1. Authors may cite unpublished works or personal communications, such as interviews or private correspondence, but they should obtain explicit permission from the original authors before doing so.
2. Proper attribution in such cases requires permission acknowledgment and a description of the nature of the communication.

Managing multiple sources

1. In cases where authors have drawn information or data from multiple sources, it is essential to ensure that each source is properly attributed.
2. Authors must clearly differentiate between the contributions of different sources and avoid potential misrepresentation or ambiguity.

Reviewer assessment of attribution

1. During the peer review process, reviewers carefully evaluate the proper attribution in the submitted manuscript.
2. Reviewers assess whether the references and citations provided by the authors are accurate, comprehensive, and appropriately formatted.
3. Reviewers also check whether the authors have correctly acknowledged the contributions of other researchers and provided due credit for any used data or visual elements.

Editorial assessment of attribution

1. The Editorial Board of IgMin Research conducts a thorough assessment of the manuscript to ensure compliance with proper attribution guidelines.
2. Editorial staff may use specialized plagiarism detection tools to verify the accuracy and adequacy of citations and references.
3. Any concerns related to improper attribution or potential instances of plagiarism are addressed with diligence and fairness.

Conclusion

Proper attribution is a cornerstone of scholarly research, ensuring that the academic community operates with integrity, respect for intellectual property, and the pursuit of knowledge. At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, we emphasize the significance of proper attribution in maintaining the authenticity and credibility of published work. By adhering to rigorous citation practices and recognizing the contributions of others, authors contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields while fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. Through the collective commitment to proper attribution, we strive to promote ethical research conduct and uphold the highest standards of academic excellence.

Self-Plagiarism

Self-plagiarism, also known as duplicate publication or autoplagiarism, is a critical concern in academic and scientific publishing. It occurs when an author republishes their own previously published work, or substantial portions of it, without proper citation or disclosure of the original source. This practice can mislead readers and undermine the integrity of scholarly research. At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, we strictly prohibit self-plagiarism to maintain the authenticity and credibility of the research published in our journal.

Elaboration of the self-plagiarism policy

1. Defining self-plagiarism: Authors must be aware that submitting a manuscript that substantially overlaps with their previously published work is considered self-plagiarism. This includes reusing text, data, figures, tables, or any other form of intellectual property without appropriate citation.
2. Transparency in previous publications: Authors are required to provide full disclosure of any prior publications or related works that have contributed to the current submission. This involves acknowledging the relationship between the new and previously published material and providing citations to the earlier work.
3. Extent of overlapping content: Our journal defines the permissible extent of self-referential content that can be included in a new submission. Authors are advised to verify our guidelines to determine the acceptable level of self-referencing in their manuscript.
4. Relevance and citations: When building upon their previous research, authors must ensure that the self-referenced content is relevant and appropriately cited. This includes summarizing and paraphrasing their previous work while acknowledging the original source.
5. Permission from prior publishers: If a substantial amount of content has been previously published, authors must obtain permission from the previous publisher to reuse that content in their new submission. Failure to do so can lead to copyright violations and potential legal consequences.
6. Distinguishing between publications: Authors must make a clear distinction between their current submission and their prior publications. This can be achieved through substantial additions, updates, or expansions of the existing work, ensuring that the new submission contributes significantly to the scientific community.
7. Confidentiality and preprints: Authors who have previously released their work as preprints or in conference proceedings should clearly state this in their submission. However, the peer-reviewed version of the manuscript should offer substantial advancements and additional insights compared to the preprint or conference paper.
8. Accurate cross-referencing: When cross-referencing or building upon their prior publications within the manuscript, authors must provide accurate and specific citations to the original sources. This allows readers to access the complete context of the referenced content.
9. Exceptions to the policy: There might be certain cases where limited duplication of content is necessary, such as in review articles or when reproducing a method or algorithm. In such cases, authors must provide justifications for the overlap and ensure proper citations to the original sources.
10. Editorial and peer review evaluation: Our Editorial Board and peer reviewers are vigilant in identifying instances of self-plagiarism during the review process. Manuscripts suspected of self-plagiarism will be carefully assessed, and authors will be asked to address any concerns before proceeding with publication.

Consequences of self-plagiarism

At IgMin Research, we take self-plagiarism seriously, as it undermines the principles of academic integrity and ethical publishing. Authors found to be in violation of the self-plagiarism policy may face the following consequences:

1. Content revision: Authors will be asked to revise their manuscript to properly attribute and distinguish overlapping content from prior publications.
2. Publication delay: Addressing self-plagiarism concerns may lead to delays in the publication process.
3. Rejection or retraction: In cases of severe or repeated self-plagiarism, the manuscript may be rejected or retracted from the journal.
4. Temporary or permanent ban: Authors who persistently engage in self-plagiarism may face temporary or permanent bans on submitting future manuscripts to IgMin Research.

Conclusion

The self-plagiarism policy at IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal is in place to safeguard the integrity of scholarly research and ensure that published work represents genuine and original contributions to the scientific community. We urge authors to be vigilant in adhering to this policy, provide full disclosure of previous publications, and appropriately attribute any reused content. By upholding these ethical standards, we collectively foster an environment of transparency, respect, and innovation in academic publishing.

CrossCheck Plagiarism Detection

At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, maintaining the authenticity and originality of published research is of utmost importance. To ensure this, we employ advanced plagiarism detection software called CrossCheck. This cutting-edge tool plays a pivotal role in identifying potential instances of plagiarism and safeguarding the integrity of the research published in our journal.

Elaboration of the crosscheck plagiarism detection process

Point 1: Manuscript submission: The plagiarism detection process begins when an author submits their research manuscript to IgMin Research for consideration. Upon submission, the manuscript undergoes initial screening by the editorial team to ensure compliance with the journal's guidelines and formatting requirements.

Point 2: Plagiarism check initiation: After passing the initial screening, the manuscript proceeds to the plagiarism detection phase. The editorial team initiates the CrossCheck plagiarism detection process using the specialized software integrated into our submission system.

Point 3: Comparison against vast database: CrossCheck operates by comparing the submitted manuscript against an extensive database of academic journals, publications, theses, conference proceedings, and other online sources. This database encompasses a wide range of disciplines and contains a vast repository of scholarly works.

Point 4: Textual comparison: The plagiarism detection software conducts a comprehensive textual comparison between the submitted manuscript and the content present in the database. This process involves identifying textual similarities and matching sequences within the text.

Point 5: Highlighting potential matches: If the software detects any matches or similarities in the text, it highlights these instances for further review. It is essential to note that the identification of similarities does not automatically imply plagiarism; rather, it serves as an indication of potential content overlap.

Point 6: Manual review by editorial team: The highlighted potential matches are then manually reviewed by the editorial team. During this phase, the editorial team assesses the context and relevance of the identified similarities in the manuscript.

Point 7: Authors notified (If required): If the manual review indicates any substantial similarities that raise concerns about potential plagiarism, the corresponding author(s) will be notified. Authors may be requested to clarify the source of the similar content and provide appropriate citations or explanations.

Point 8: Decision and next steps: Based on the findings of the plagiarism detection process and the subsequent manual review, the editorial team makes an informed decision regarding the manuscript. If the identified similarities are deemed insignificant or adequately cited, the manuscript may proceed to the peer review stage.

Point 9: Plagiarism-free manuscript: On the other hand, if the plagiarism detection process identifies substantial and unattributed similarities that are indicative of plagiarism, the manuscript may be rejected. In such cases, authors will be informed about the reasons for rejection, and they may have the opportunity to revise and resubmit the manuscript with proper citations and corrections.

Point 10: Ongoing commitment to quality: At IgMin Research, the CrossCheck plagiarism detection process is not limited to pre-publication screening. We are committed to upholding the integrity of our published content even after publication. Therefore, we continue to monitor and assess any potential concerns raised by the scientific community or readers about the authenticity of published works.

Conclusion

The CrossCheck plagiarism detection process at IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal is a crucial step in our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity. By utilizing this state-of-the-art software, we ensure that all manuscripts published in our journal undergo rigorous scrutiny to identify and address potential instances of plagiarism. This process, combined with the vigilance of our editorial team and peer reviewers, strengthens the credibility and reliability of the research published in our journal, fostering a scholarly environment that promotes ethical research conduct and genuine contributions to the scientific community.

Consequences of Plagiarism

At IgMin Research, maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity is of utmost importance. To safeguard the credibility and reputation of our journal, we have established a strict Plagiarism Policy that addresses any instances of plagiarism in a fair and objective manner. When plagiarism or any unethical practices are identified during the peer review process or after publication, the following step-by-step process is followed to ensure appropriate action is taken:

1. Plagiarism detection: Upon submission, all manuscripts undergo a comprehensive plagiarism check using advanced software, such as CrossCheck. This automated tool compares the submitted work against an extensive database of academic journals, publications, and online sources to identify similarities and potential instances of plagiarism.
2. Editor review: If the plagiarism detection software indicates potential issues, the manuscript is further examined by the Editor-in-Chief or an assigned editor. The editor carefully reviews the highlighted sections and assesses the severity and extent of the plagiarism.
3. Author response: If plagiarism is detected, the corresponding author is promptly notified and given an opportunity to respond to the allegations. Authors are encouraged to provide a clear explanation of the similarities detected and any potential sources used in their work.
4. Reviewer input: In cases where plagiarism is suspected but not definitively confirmed, the manuscript may be sent for additional review by independent experts or reviewers. Their input helps the editorial team make a well-informed decision regarding the presence and severity of plagiarism.
5. Editorial decision: After careful consideration of the plagiarism report, author response, and reviewer input, the Editor-in-Chief, in consultation with the Editorial Board, makes an editorial decision. This decision may range from rejection of the manuscript to the request for revision and proper citation of the affected sections.
6. Retraction and corrections: If plagiarism is confirmed after publication, appropriate actions are taken to rectify the situation. Depending on the severity of the plagiarism, the published article may be retracted with a notice explaining the reasons for the retraction. In cases where only specific sections are affected, a correction or erratum may be issued, providing accurate attributions and citations.
7. Notification: In cases of confirmed plagiarism, the authors' institutions and funding agencies may be notified about the violation of academic integrity. Such notifications serve to raise awareness and encourage proper ethical practices among researchers.
8. Ethical guidelines and education: IgMin Research emphasizes the importance of ethical research conduct and encourages authors to familiarize themselves with our ethical guidelines and best practices. We believe that education plays a vital role in preventing unintentional plagiarism and other ethical violations.
9. Blacklisting: In severe cases of repeated or extensive plagiarism, the authors involved may be blacklisted from submitting future manuscripts to IgMin Research. Such actions are taken to maintain the credibility and integrity of our journal and deter potential misconduct.
10. Appeals process: Authors have the right to appeal the editorial decision if they believe that plagiarism allegations were wrongly assessed or if they have made substantial revisions to rectify any identified issues. Appeals are reviewed by an independent committee to ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation.

In conclusion, the Consequences of Plagiarism at IgMin Research are handled with utmost care and objectivity. Our commitment to promoting academic integrity and ethical publishing ensures that research published in our journal is trustworthy and contributes significantly to the advancement of knowledge in various STEM disciplines. By diligently following our Plagiarism Policy, we maintain a reputable and credible platform that fosters a culture of integrity and excellence in scientific research.

Pre-Submission Self-Check

Before submitting their research manuscripts to IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, authors are encouraged to conduct a thorough pre-submission self-check for plagiarism. This proactive approach allows authors to identify and rectify potential instances of unintentional plagiarism and ensures that their work adheres to the highest ethical standards. The pre-submission self-check involves the following step-by-step process:

Step 1: Familiarize yourself with plagiarism guidelines

Authors should begin by familiarizing themselves with IgMin Research's Plagiarism Policy and guidelines on proper attribution and citation. Understanding the definition of plagiarism and the types of content that require proper citation is crucial to performing an effective self-check.

Step 2: Use plagiarism detection software

Several online plagiarism detection tools are available, which can help authors identify potential instances of copied or unoriginal content in their manuscripts. Authors can use these tools to compare their text against a vast database of academic journals, publications, and other online sources.

Step 3: Compare manuscript with prior works

If the current submission builds upon the author's prior works, it is essential to compare the manuscript with the previously published research. Authors should check for any substantial overlap in content and ensure that proper citations and references are provided to the earlier work.

Step 4: Verify citations and references

Authors should meticulously review all citations and references included in their manuscript. Each source cited should be complete, accurate, and correspond to the content referenced in the text. Any missing or incorrectly formatted citations should be rectified before submission.

Step 5: Paraphrase with caution

While paraphrasing is acceptable, it should be done with caution to avoid unintentional plagiarism. Authors should ensure that the meaning and context of the original source are accurately conveyed and that proper attribution is given to the original author.

Step 6: Check figure and image usage

Authors using figures, tables, images, or multimedia from other sources must ensure that they have the necessary permissions and provide proper acknowledgments. Any content taken from copyrighted material should be appropriately cited, and the source should be credited.

Step 7: Verify data and results

In cases where the manuscript includes previously published data or results, authors should ensure that proper attribution is given to the original study. Additionally, authors should avoid reusing substantial portions of data from their prior works without proper citation or disclosure.

Step 8: Collaborative research attribution

If the submission involves collaborative research, each author's contributions must be accurately acknowledged. Authors should assess whether their individual contributions to the manuscript are adequately recognized and whether all contributors have granted permission for publication.

Step 9: Use plagiarism checkers for non-textual content

Plagiarism checkers are not limited to textual content; they can also be used to verify the originality of non-textual elements, such as figures, tables, and images. Authors should utilize plagiarism detection tools that support various file formats to ensure the authenticity of all aspects of their research.

Step 10: Review and revise

After completing the self-check, authors should carefully review the results and address any potential issues of plagiarism or improper citation. Revise the manuscript as needed to correct any unintentional plagiarism and ensure that all content is attributed appropriately.

By following this pre-submission self-check process, authors demonstrate their commitment to upholding ethical publishing practices and maintaining the integrity of their research. Detecting and rectifying potential instances of plagiarism before submission ultimately contributes to the quality and credibility of the research published in IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal.

Collaborative Research and Attribution

Collaborative research is a vital aspect of scientific advancement, allowing experts from diverse disciplines and institutions to pool their knowledge and resources for innovative discoveries. At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, we recognize the value of collaborative efforts and welcome research submissions that result from joint endeavors. However, it is imperative to ensure proper attribution and transparency when multiple authors or institutions are involved in the research process. The following points elaborate on the process involved in collaborative research and attribution:

1. Defining author contributions: Authors of collaborative research must clearly define and specify their individual contributions to the manuscript. Each co-author should describe their role in the research process, such as conceptualization, data collection, analysis, or writing of the manuscript. By providing a comprehensive list of author contributions, the research community can acknowledge and recognize the efforts of each contributor accurately.
2. Authorship criteria: Collaborating researchers should adhere to standardized authorship criteria, such as those outlined in the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) guidelines or other applicable disciplinary norms. These criteria typically require substantial contributions to the conception, design, execution, or interpretation of the study, as well as drafting and revising the manuscript. All authors must also approve the final version before submission.
3. Dispute resolution: In cases where disagreements arise regarding authorship or attribution, open communication and timely resolution are essential. Authors should address disputes through internal discussions and follow institutional protocols if necessary. The Editorial Board may also be consulted to mediate disputes and ensure fairness in authorship attribution.
4. Corresponding author: Collaborative research often involves multiple authors, each contributing unique perspectives. Therefore, designating a corresponding author is crucial for effective communication with the journal during the submission and review process. The corresponding author takes responsibility for coordinating revisions, responding to queries, and acting as the primary point of contact with the journal.
5. Funding and acknowledgments: Collaborative research projects are often supported by multiple funding sources from various institutions. Authors must acknowledge all funding agencies that contributed to the research. Additionally, the roles of funding agencies in the study design, data collection, analysis, or decision to publish should be disclosed if applicable.
6. Intellectual property rights: Collaborative research may involve sharing intellectual property rights and data. Researchers must establish clear agreements on the ownership, use, and sharing of intellectual property before initiating the project. Any restrictions or permissions regarding the use of data and materials should be transparently communicated in the manuscript.
7. Transparent declaration: Authors should include a transparent declaration of the collaborative nature of the research in the manuscript. This declaration should specify the identities and affiliations of all collaborating authors and institutions, as well as their contributions to the study.
8. Ethical considerations: Collaborative research should adhere to ethical principles and guidelines applicable to the involved disciplines. Ethical considerations may involve obtaining informed consent from study participants, conducting research with animal subjects responsibly, or adhering to guidelines for human subject research. Authors should provide details of ethical approval and compliance in the manuscript.
9. Permissions for copyrighted materials: In collaborative research, authors may use copyrighted materials such as images, figures, or tables from other publications. Proper permissions must be obtained from copyright holders, and clear acknowledgments should be included in the manuscript.

By following these steps and adhering to best practices in collaborative research, authors contribute to the promotion of ethical publishing and maintain the integrity of the research process. At IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal, we encourage collaborative endeavors that enhance knowledge and facilitate multidisciplinary insights while ensuring fair attribution and transparent communication among all contributors.

Conclusion

The Plagiarism Policy of IgMin Research - STEM | A Multidisciplinary Open Access Journal serves as a cornerstone of our commitment to promoting ethical publishing and maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity. By adhering to this policy, authors and researchers contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields while upholding the principles of honesty, transparency, and intellectual respect.

Through our diligent efforts to detect and prevent plagiarism, we aim to ensure that the research published in IgMin Research is authentic, reliable, and contributes significantly to the scientific community. We urge all authors, reviewers, and readers to join us in upholding these ethical standards, as together, we build a reputable and trustworthy platform for multidisciplinary research and innovation.