Generative AI (GenAI) Policy
In an era of rapid digital advancements, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of research and scientific publishing has become increasingly common. However, to uphold academic integrity and ensure transparency in scientific publications, clear policies are required to regulate the use of this technology. This policy focuses on two key areas: the use of AI in academic writing and its application in the creation and modification of scientific illustrations.
AI IN ACADEMIC WRITING
Role of AI in the Writing Process: AI enhances the readability and linguistic quality of academic writing by assisting with stylistic editing, grammar correction, and sentence structure simplification without altering the scientific substance. However, AI-generated text must always be supervised by human oversight, as AI can produce content that appears convincing but may not always be accurate, complete, or free from bias. Authors are responsible for reviewing and editing AI-assisted output to ensure their work's accuracy, validity, and scientific integrity. The unverified use of AI poses risks, including misinterpretation and disseminating misleading information. Therefore, AI should be utilized as a supportive tool in the writing process rather than as a replacement for critical thinking and the academic expertise of the author.
Disclosure Requirements for AI Use: To maintain transparency and foster trust among authors, readers, editors, and contributors, any use of AI in the writing process must be explicitly disclosed in the manuscript. I'd like for you to know that information about the AI technology used, including the software or model name, should be documented in the appropriate section. This statement will also be included in the final publication as part of scientific openness.
AI Cannot Be Recognized as an Author: AI or AI-based technologies cannot be listed as an author or co-author in scientific publications. Authorship in academic publishing requires intellectual responsibility that humans can undertake, including critical review, approval of the final manuscript version, and accountability for the accuracy and integrity of the content. Therefore, only individuals who meet authorship criteria can be recognized as authors in a scientific publication.
AI IN SCIENTIFIC ILLUSTRATIONS, IMAGES, AND ARTWORK
Prohibition on AI-Based Image Modification: In scientific publications, the use of AI to create or alter images used in manuscripts is not permitted. This includes enhancing, masking, removing, or adding specific elements within scientific images. This prohibition aims to prevent manipulation that could obscure or distort the original information in the image. Minor adjustments, such as brightness, contrast, or color balance enhancements, are allowed if they do not alter or remove the original information in the image. These adjustments must be made transparently and should not be used to modify the presented data.
Exceptions in Research Methodology: Exceptions to the prohibition on AI-generated images may be granted if AI is used as part of the research methodology. For example, in biomedical imaging, AI can analyze or interpret image data within a research context. In such cases, authors must explain how AI was used in the Methods section of the manuscript.
This explanation must include:
• The name of the AI software or model used.
• The version and extension number of the software.
• The manufacturer or developer of the AI technology applied.
Editors may request that authors provide pre-AI processed images or raw composite images used in generating the final illustration to ensure that the output meets scientific integrity standards.
Prohibition on AI-Generated Scientific Artwork: The use of AI to generate graphical abstracts, diagrams, or other scientific artwork in publications is not permitted. However, in specific cases, such as cover art production, AI-generated content may be allowed under the following conditions:
• Authors must obtain prior approval from the journal editor and publisher.
• The rights to the material used must be ensured, with no infringement on third-party copyrights.
• Applicable guidelines must provide proper attribution.
Privacy and Data Security Protection: When utilizing AI technology, authors must know that any information entered into an AI system may be accessible to the AI service provider. Therefore, authors should consider the implications of AI use concerning participant data privacy and intellectual property protection. Additionally, to maintain confidentiality in the peer review process, editors and reviewers are prohibited from inputting manuscript materials into AI systems. This measure is intended to prevent breaches of confidentiality in academic evaluation.
