Generative artificial intelligence (AI) policy
International Journal of Infection allows the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to a moderate extent and only under the condition that such usage respects high standards of copyright protection, confidentiality, and data security.
Authors are accountable for the originality, validity, and integrity of the content of their submissions, and for ensuring that the content of their submissions meets the required standards of rigorous scientific and scholarly assessment, research and validation. If authors intend to use an AI tool, they should ensure that the tool is appropriate and robust for their proposed use, and that the such tool provides sufficient safeguards and protections, such as those regarding intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and security.
Acceptable use of generative AI:
International Journal of Infection allows the use of AI for:
– Idea generation and idea exploration
– Language improvement
– Interactive online search with Large Language Models
– Literature classification
In the case of AI usage, authors are required to provide a statement in the Material and Methods section which should include the full name of the tool used (with version number), the manner in which it was used, and the reason for its use.
Unacceptable use of generative AI:
It is forbidden to submit manuscripts where Generative AI tools have been used in ways that replace core researcher and/or author responsibilities. This includes cases where AI has been used for:
– Synthetic data generation to substitute missing data without robust methodology
– Generation of any type of content that is inaccurate including abstracts or supplemental materials
– Text generation without rigorous revision
Furthermore, it is forbidden to submit manuscripts where Generative AI tools have been used in the creation and manipulation of images and figures, or original research data for use in publications. The term “images and figures” includes pictures, charts, data tables, medical imagery, snippets of images, computer code, and formulas. The term “manipulation” includes augmenting, concealing, moving, removing, or introducing a specific feature within an image or figure.
The use of Generative AI systems by editors and reviewers during the review process is forbidden, as this may pose a risk to confidentiality, proprietary rights and data, including personally identifiable information. Therefore, editors and peer reviewers must not upload files, images or information from unpublished manuscripts into Generative AI tools. Reviewers will at all times remain responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of their reviews.