Preprints and theses
A preprint or thesis does not automatically prevent consideration. Authors should disclose the repository, identifier and version, explain the relationship to the submitted manuscript and ensure that they retain the right to publish the work. The editor assesses whether the journal submission makes an appropriate scholarly contribution and avoids redundant publication.
Conference and related material
Identify related abstracts, presentations, proceedings papers and overlapping manuscripts. Explain what is new in the submission and cite relevant versions. A substantially overlapping full article published elsewhere is not treated as a new journal contribution merely because its title or wording has changed.
Linking versions
After publication, update preprint and repository records to point to the version of record where the platform allows it. Mark versions clearly so that readers can identify the text they are using. Corrections and retractions should also be reflected in linked versions when feasible.