ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) POLICY
Use of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in scientific writing (for authors)
This policy applies solely to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the preparation of manuscripts and does not apply to AI used as part of the research methodology (e.g., data analysis or modeling).
Where authors use generative AI or AI-assisted technologies in the writing process, such tools should be used only to improve the language and readability of the manuscript. Authors must ensure that all AI-assisted outputs are carefully reviewed and edited, as AI-generated content may be inaccurate, incomplete, or biased. Authors are fully responsible and accountable for the content of their work.
The use of AI and AI-assisted technologies must be clearly disclosed in the manuscript, typically in the Acknowledgments section. A statement regarding such use will be included in the published article. Transparency in AI use helps build trust among authors, reviewers, editors, and readers.
AI tools must not be listed as authors or co-authors, nor cited as authors. Authorship implies accountability and responsibility, which can only be assigned to human contributors. All listed authors must meet authorship criteria, approve the final version of the manuscript, and agree to its submission. Authors are also responsible for ensuring that the manuscript is original, properly cited, and complies with the ethical standards of JOBC.
Authors must ensure that their manuscript meets similarity requirements (maximum 15%) and adheres to academic integrity principles. The use of AI to generate core scientific content, including data, results, or figures, is strictly prohibited. AI must also not be used to produce misleading information or to paraphrase existing works without proper attribution.
Use of generative AI and AI-assisted tools in figures, images, and artwork
The use of generative AI or AI-assisted tools to create or alter images, figures, or artwork in submitted manuscripts is not permitted. This includes adding, removing, enhancing, or obscuring features within images.
Adjustments limited to brightness, contrast, or color balance are acceptable, provided they do not distort or remove any original information.
An exception applies where AI tools are used as part of the research methodology. In such cases, authors must provide a clear, reproducible description in the Methods section, including the name of the AI tool, its version, the developer, and details of its application. Authors may be requested to provide original, unprocessed image data for editorial review.
The use of AI in generating graphical abstracts or other illustrative materials is not permitted. Use of AI for cover artwork may be considered only with prior approval from the editor and with appropriate permissions and attribution.
Use of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the peer review process (for reviewers)
Manuscripts submitted to JOBC must be treated as confidential documents. Reviewers must not upload manuscripts or any part thereof into AI tools, as this may compromise confidentiality, intellectual property rights, and data privacy.
This confidentiality requirement also applies to peer review reports. Reviewers must not use AI tools to generate, revise, or enhance their review reports.
Peer review relies on independent human expertise and critical judgment. Therefore, the use of generative AI or AI-assisted technologies for manuscript evaluation is not permitted. Reviewers are fully responsible for the content and integrity of their reviews.
Use of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the editorial process (for editors)
Editors must handle all submitted manuscripts as confidential documents. They must not upload manuscripts or any related content into AI tools, as this may violate confidentiality and data protection standards.
Editorial communications, including decision letters and correspondence with authors or reviewers, must not be generated or processed using AI tools.
Maintaining confidentiality and editorial integrity is essential to ensure a fair and ethical publication process.
Definition of generative AI
Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence systems capable of producing content such as text, images, audio, or synthetic data. Examples include tools such as ChatGPT, DALL·E, and similar technologies.