AI Usage Policy

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy establishes ethical standards for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in the preparation, review, and publication of scholarly works in SEMAR. The journal follows COPE’s Core Practices, emphasizing integrity, accountability, and transparency in AI usage across research and publication activities.

2. Definition of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools

AI tools include, but are not limited to, large language models (e.g., ChatGPT, GPT-5, Gemini), generative AI for text, images, translation, or data analysis, and AI-assisted software for writing, paraphrasing, or visualization. Use of such tools is acceptable only when transparent, ethical, and compliant with COPE standards.

3. Authorship and AI Contributions

Authors must declare any use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) or AI-assisted tools in the writing process of their manuscript at the time of submission. This policy applies only to the preparation of text and does not include the use of AI in data analysis or research methods.

  • Generative AI and AI-assisted technologies may be used only to enhance language, grammar, and readability of the manuscript.
  • Use of such tools must be under human oversight and editorial control. Authors must carefully check, revise, and approve the content, as AI-generated text may be inaccurate, incomplete, or biased.
  • Full responsibility and accountability for the article rests with the authors.
  • Generative AI or AI-assisted tools must not be listed or cited as authors or co-authors.

4. Declaration of Generative AI in Scientific Writing

A declaration must be included in a separate section before the References list as described in the Author Guideline and Manuscript Template.

5. AI Use in Peer Review and Editorial Process

  • Editors and reviewers must not upload unpublished manuscripts or confidential content into AI tools.
  • AI may only be used to assist with grammar, summarization, or metadata analysis, ensuring confidentiality and data protection.
  • Peer review decisions must remain fully human-driven.

6. Transparency and Disclosure

  • All AI use in manuscript preparation, data analysis, or visualization must be clearly described.
  • The journal may request details about the tools used, including version, platform, and prompts.
  • Undisclosed AI use may trigger a research misconduct investigation.

7. Data Privacy and Intellectual Property

  • Authors must not input confidential or copyrighted data into AI tools.
  • AI outputs may lack copyright protection; authors are responsible for verifying ownership and avoiding intellectual property infringement.
  • The journal is not liable for legal issues arising from unauthorized AI use.

8. Generative AI in Figures, Images, and Artwork

Generative AI use in visual materials is subject to strict regulation. Figures, images, and artwork represent an essential component of the scientific record. Improper use of AI-assisted technologies may compromise accuracy, originality, and copyright compliance. Therefore, the journal establishes the following rules:

  • Authors must not use generative AI or AI-assisted tools to create, modify, or enhance images, figures, or artwork in submitted manuscripts.
  • Authors may use AI-assisted tools only when these tools form part of the research methodology (for example, biomedical imaging). In this case, authors must report the use clearly in the Methods section by including:
    • The name of the tool or model
    • The version and extension numbers
    • The manufacturer or source
  • Authors must not use generative AI or AI-assisted tools to produce graphical abstracts.

9. Ethical Oversight and Misconduct

Undisclosed or improper AI use that results in falsification, plagiarism, or misrepresentation constitutes research misconduct. Cases will be investigated following COPE’s Ethical Oversight Guidelines, which may result in rejection, retraction, or institutional notification.

10. Policy Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Editorial Board to ensure alignment with evolving COPE and international publishing standards. Revisions will be published on the journal’s website upon approval.