The journal stipulates that the use of Generative AI and artificial intelligence-based technologies in the preparation of scientific articles must be limited, transparent and responsible. The use of such technologies must not replace the author’s role in generating scientific ideas, conducting analysis, making academic decisions and taking responsibility for the content of the article.

Guidelines for Authors

a. The use of Generative AI is permitted to assist with linguistic aspects, such as checking grammar, spelling, sentence structure, translation, and improving the readability of the manuscript.

b. The development of the scientific substance of the article must still originate from the author. Generative AI must not be used as the primary source in designing research objectives, formulating hypotheses, constructing theoretical frameworks, determining methods, interpreting data, compiling research results, or drawing conclusions.

c. Authors are obliged to carry out a thorough verification of all information obtained with the assistance of Generative AI. Information that cannot be verified must not be included in the article.

d. References, quotations, bibliographic data, authors’ names, article titles, and scientific information generated by Generative AI must be verified using reliable academic sources.

e. The use of Generative AI that contributes to the article preparation process must be disclosed transparently to the journal. Authors must specify the tools used and explain their functions.

f. A declaration of Generative AI use does not diminish the author’s responsibility for the entire content of the article. Authors remain responsible for the accuracy, originality, validity and integrity of the scientific work.

g. Generative AI may not be listed as an author, co-author or contributor with authorial status.

h. Authors are not permitted to use Generative AI to create research data, alter research results, manipulate findings, fabricate references, or generate information that does not originate from the actual research process.

i. The use of Generative AI to create images, graphs, illustrations or visual material is not permitted if such use alters, adds to, omits or obscures information relating to the research data.

j. Where AI-based technology forms part of the research methodology, its use must be fully described in the Methods section, including the tools or systems used, the purpose of their use, and the relevant procedures.

k. Authors must ensure that the use of AI technology does not result in copyright infringement, plagiarism, infringement of third-party rights, or the unauthorised use of material.

l. Confidential information, personal data, participant data, unpublished documents, and protected research material must not be fed into AI systems that are capable of storing or using such information beyond the authors’ control.

Guidelines for Reviewers

a. Manuscripts received for review are confidential documents and must only be used for the purposes of the peer review process.

b. Reviewers are prohibited from uploading all or part of the manuscript’s content into Generative AI or any other AI system.

c. Generative AI must not be used to create, compose, translate, amend or refine peer review reports.

d. Assessments of the scientific quality, methodology, novelty, interpretation and contribution of an article must be based on the reviewer’s academic judgement.

e. Reviewers bear full responsibility for the content of the recommendations and comments submitted to the editor.

 Guidelines for Editors

a. Editors must maintain the confidentiality of all manuscripts, data, authors’ identities, reviewers’ reports and editorial communications.

b. The contents of manuscripts or editorial documents of a confidential nature must not be fed into Generative AI or external AI systems.

c. Editorial decisions must not be delegated to AI systems. Decisions regarding publication must be based on academic evaluation and the editor’s professional judgement.

d. Editors are responsible for ensuring that the use of AI technology in the editorial process does not compromise the objectivity, confidentiality, and integrity of the publication process.

e. Editors may request clarification from authors if there are indications of Generative AI use that is inconsistent with the journal’s policy.

f. Allegations of AI use relating to data fabrication, manipulation of results, plagiarism, or other breaches of publication ethics may be addressed through the applicable publication ethics procedures.

Declaration of the Use of Generative AI

a. If the author has used Generative AI in the preparation of the article, a declaration of its use must be included in the section specified by the journal.

Example statement:

“The author used [name of tool] during the manuscript preparation process to assist with [explain the purpose of use]. This technology was used as an aid and does not replace the author’s scientific assessment and decision-making processes. The author has reviewed all sections of the manuscript and is responsible for the accuracy, originality and integrity of the article.”

b. The use of Generative AI that is not reported or does not comply with the journal’s guidelines may be taken into account during the editorial process and may be addressed in accordance with the applicable publication ethics policy.