Guidelines for using artificial intelligence and language models in the preparation of articles:
Introduction
In the current era, artificial intelligence and advanced language models have become powerful tools in the fields of science and research. With their unique abilities in natural language processing, data analysis, and content generation, these technologies have accelerated and improved the process of writing scientific papers. The Journal of Water and Wastewater, as one of the authoritative references in the field of water and environmental sciences, welcomes these technologies to enhance the quality of articles and facilitate research processes.
Using AI in preparing articles can involve various steps, including data collection and analysis, basic text generation, editing, and content optimization. However, it is important to note that these tools serve as a complement rather than a substitute for the creativity and expertise of researchers. Authors are obligated to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, and they are ultimately responsible for the content of the articles.
This guideline has been developed to provide the necessary guidance for the ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence and language models in the preparation of articles so that researchers can take advantage of the benefits of artificial intelligence in their work without compromising the originality and scientific quality of the articles. It is hoped that by using these technologies, an effective step will be taken toward the advancement of water and wastewater science.
- Using artificial intelligence as a research assistant and editing tool
- Researchers can leverage artificial intelligence models to enhance the linguistic and punctuation quality of articles. These technologies can be employed to edit and correct text, improve clarity and fluency, and organize various sections of the article.
- The use of artificial intelligence as a valuable tool in the early stages of article writing and content structuring is also encouraged. This includes professionally refining the text and utilizing AI-powered tools to efficiently search for sources and concepts relevant to the research topic.
- Avoiding the use of artificial intelligence in the production of data and research results
- Producing research data and performing original and accurate scientific analysis should be carried out entirely by researchers using scientific and reliable methods. The use of language models and artificial intelligence to generate hypothetical data, simulate data, or produce research results that cannot be independently verified is unacceptable and may lead to scientific misrepresentation.
- Extracting results and conducting the final research analysis should be done solely with research tools and valid scientific methods. It is not acceptable to use AI to draw conclusions or interpret research findings, as it may result in unreliable outcomes.
- Authors who use AI tools to write abstracts, generate images, figures, or assist in data collection and analysis should be transparent in disclosing the materials and methods used in the article. Specifically, they should detail how and which AI tools were utilized.
- Clarification on the use of artificial intelligence
- If AI has been used in the preparation of the article, it is recommended that the authors mention this in the "Acknowledgment" section or in a separate section such as "Use of AI Tools." This clarification helps readers understand the aspects where AI contributed to the preparation of the article while maintaining the principles of scientific transparency. For example, authors can explain that they used AI for language editing, punctuation, or structuring of the article, and briefly describe the parts of the article improved by AI tools. This assures both researchers and reviewers that all scientific data and analyses have been independently prepared by the authors.
- Verify the accuracy, reliability, and appropriateness of the content and any AI-generated citations, and correct any errors or discrepancies.
- Using Artificial Intelligence in Searching for Scientific Resources
- Artificial intelligence models can be valuable tools for locating reliable and scientific sources. Researchers may utilize AI-based tools to find articles and books relevant to their research topics, provided they carefully verify the originality and validity of the selected sources.
- Authors should ensure they use only credible scientific sources and databases, avoiding citations from sources that lack sufficient scientific credibility or have been artificially generated by language models. AI should serve solely as a tool to facilitate the search and collection of authoritative sources, with the authenticity of the sources thoroughly verified.
- Maintaining the Scientific Independence of Researchers and the Originality of Research
- Researchers must independently conduct all major stages of research, including experimental design, data collection, analysis of findings, and drawing final conclusions, utilizing their specialized knowledge. The use of artificial intelligence should not undermine the researcher’s primary role in producing scientific knowledge and analysis.
- Current AI models are not entirely objective or realistic. Authors employing AI to assist in writing their research should strive to ensure the accuracy of outputs and that the sources cited genuinely support the claims made.
- Responsibility of the authors towards the content
- As the primary individuals responsible for the scientific content of the article, the authors must ensure that all data and analyses presented are original and independent. AI should not replace the researcher’s core work in generating scientific data or research conclusions. If AI is used for supportive aspects, it is essential to maintain transparency regarding its use. Authors are accountable for their written content, including portions generated by AI tools. Consequently, they must take responsibility for any violations of ethical principles in the publication.
Artificial Intelligence Generated Content
Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC) tools—such as ChatGPT and others based on large language models (LLMs)—cannot be considered capable of initiating an original piece of research without direction by human authors. They also cannot be accountable for a published work or for research design, which is a generally held requirement of authorship, nor do they have legal standing or the ability to hold or assign copyright. Therefore—in accordance with COPE's position statement on AI tools these tools cannot fulfill the role of, nor be listed as, an author of an article. If an author has used this kind of tool to develop any portion of a manuscript, its use must be described, transparently and in detail, in the Methods or Acknowledgements section. The author is fully responsible for the accuracy of any information provided by the tool and for correctly referencing any supporting works on which that information depends. Tools that are used to improve spelling, grammar, and general editing are not included in the scope of these guidelines. The final decision about whether use of an AIGC tool is appropriate or permissible in the circumstances of a submitted manuscript or a published article lies with the journal’s editor.
Conclusion
This guideline is designed to uphold scientific principles and preserve the originality of research in the Journal of Water and Wastewater. As a scientific journal, we respect the positive and responsible use of AI as a research assistant and recommend employing these tools only when strict adherence to scientific and research principles is maintained. Authors are encouraged to follow these recommendations while utilizing new technologies, ensuring a focus on originality and quality in their research. This will enable the publication of articles with high scientific value, accuracy, and credibility.
