Duplicate Publication and Preprints Policy

IPMM considers original submissions that are not simultaneously under consideration elsewhere. Authors disclose related manuscripts, prior publications, conference abstracts, registered reports and preprints that overlap with the work; provide links or copies when requested.

Duplicate and redundant publication

Substantially repeating findings without transparent cross-reference and a distinct contribution is unacceptable. Salami publication, misleading reuse of figures or data, and undisclosed text recycling may lead to rejection or action after publication. Cite legitimate reuse of methods or previous material and respect copyright and licensing terms.

Conference work and secondary publication

A disclosed conference abstract, poster or presentation does not itself preclude a full article if the manuscript adds a substantive account. Secondary publication requires transparent acknowledgement, permissions where needed, editorial agreement and a clear reason for the second audience. The secondary version identifies and cites the primary article.

Preprints

Posting to a recognised preprint server before or during submission is permitted when disclosed with its DOI or URL. Identify a preprint as unreviewed when citing it. After publication, link the preprint record to the definitive journal article and DOI where the server permits.

Editorial response

Editors may request related material, consult relevant parties, and reject, correct or retract a work if undisclosed duplication compromises the record, applying the Research Misconduct and Corrections policies as appropriate.