All manuscripts submitted for publication in MAPSS are cross-checked for plagiarism using Truitin Software. According to COPE plagiarism is “When somebody presents the work of others (data, words or theories) as if they were his/her own and without proper acknowledgment”. Any allegations of plagiarism or self-plagiarism will be investigated by the editor in chief and MAP. If the allegations be confirmed, the authors will be contacted to explain the overlapping content. The Editorial Board members and the authors’ institution might also be asked to assist in further evaluation of the manuscript.

Based on the investigation and depending on the extent of plagiarism, the following actions might be taken:

• The paper might be returned to authors to address the issue using sources properly
• In case the similarity is too extensive, the paper might be rejected
• In case the paper is already published online, a correction, expression of concern or retraction might be published.
• The author’s institution might be also informed.