Generative AI Policies

As generative AI and AI-assisted technologies become increasingly prevalent in academic and creative processes, it is imperative to establish clear guidelines to uphold the integrity, transparency, and quality of journal publications. Below are the general policies that journals may adopt to regulate the use of generative AI.

1. Policy for Authors

a. Use of Generative AI in Writing

  1. Generative AI tools may only be used to enhance the clarity and readability of the text. They must not replace intellectual contributions, critical thinking, or original research efforts by the authors.
  2. Authors must conduct thorough reviews of any AI-generated content to ensure accuracy and avoid errors, biases, or misinformation, as they remain fully accountable for the final manuscript.
  3. The use of generative AI tools must be transparently disclosed in the manuscript. Authors should include a statement detailing how and where AI was utilized in the writing process.

b. Authorship and Attribution

  1. Generative AI cannot be listed as an author or co-author. Authorship requires intellectual accountability, decision-making, and the ability to approve the final manuscript, responsibilities that AI cannot fulfill.
  2. All authors must ensure their contributions adhere to ethical guidelines, including originality, proper attribution, and compliance with copyright laws.

c. Use of Generative AI in Visuals and Data

  1. The use of generative AI to create or manipulate figures, images, or artwork is prohibited unless explicitly part of the research methodology, and its use is described in detail in the methods section.
  2. When used as part of research, authors must provide:
    1. Full details of the AI tool or model, including name, version, and technical specifications.
    2. Information on the processes followed and how reproducibility is ensured.
  3. Any AI-assisted adjustments to visual data must preserve the integrity and accuracy of the original information.

d. Graphical Abstracts and Cover Art

The use of generative AI to produce graphical abstracts or cover illustrations requires prior approval from the editor and must comply with attribution and copyright standards.

2. Policy for Reviewers

a. Confidentiality and Use of Generative AI

  1. Manuscripts submitted for peer review are confidential. Reviewers are strictly prohibited from uploading manuscripts or excerpts into AI tools, as this may breach confidentiality and intellectual property rights.
  2. Reviewers must not use generative AI tools to draft or enhance peer review reports. Peer review requires independent critical analysis and judgment that AI cannot provide.

b. Reviewer Responsibilities

  1. Reviewers are fully accountable for their evaluations and must ensure the quality and integrity of their reports without reliance on AI.
  2. Any suspected misuse of AI by authors should be reported to the editorial team for investigation.

3. Policy for Editors

a. Confidentiality and Editorial Processes

  1. Editors must treat submitted manuscripts and related communications as confidential and must not use generative AI tools to evaluate or draft correspondence regarding manuscripts.
  2. Editorial decision-making relies on critical judgment and professional discretion, tasks that cannot be delegated to AI tools.

b. Use of AI in Administrative Tasks

  1. Journals may utilize AI for administrative functions such as plagiarism detection and reviewer identification, provided the tools comply with ethical and privacy standards.
  2. Any AI tools used should be rigorously evaluated to ensure fairness, accuracy, and alignment with responsible AI principles.

c. Addressing Violations

Editors must investigate and address any suspected violations of AI policies, whether by authors, reviewers, or others involved in the publishing process.

4. General Principles

  1. Transparency: Disclosing the use of generative AI promotes trust and accountability among all stakeholders.
  2. Integrity: AI should never compromise the originality, reliability, or ethical standards of the journal's content.
  3. Adaptability: Journals should regularly review and update AI policies to reflect advancements in technology and shifts in ethical considerations.