Believers Medical Journal (BeMJ) recognizes the growing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) in scientific writing, research, data-related activities, and manuscript preparation. The journal supports the responsible and transparent use of these technologies while maintaining standards of originality, accuracy, scientific validity, confidentiality, and editorial integrity.
This policy establishes expectations for authors, peer reviewers, and editors. It is informed by relevant Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) Core Practices, recommendations from the World Association of Medical Editors (WAME), and transparency principles reflected in Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) criteria.
Generative AI tools may be used for supportive purposes during manuscript preparation when human authors retain intellectual responsibility, carefully verify the output, and provide disclosure when required. Permitted uses may include:
AI tools must not be used in ways that compromise research integrity or human scholarly responsibility. Prohibited uses include:
Authors must disclose substantive use of generative AI tools in the Methods section, Acknowledgments, or another dedicated declaration, as appropriate to the nature of the work.
The disclosure should identify, where available:
Declaration of Generative AI Assistance: During the preparation of this manuscript, the author(s) used [Tool Name, Version, Provider] for [describe the purpose and extent of use]. The author(s) reviewed, verified, and edited the resulting material and accept full responsibility for the accuracy, originality, citations, and integrity of the submitted manuscript.
AI systems, chatbots, and large language models cannot be listed as authors or coauthors.
Authorship requires identifiable human contributions, approval of the submitted and final manuscript, appropriate disclosure of competing interests, and accountability for the accuracy and integrity of the work. AI systems cannot independently fulfill these responsibilities.
Human authors remain fully responsible for all content submitted to BeMJ, including:
The use of an AI tool does not transfer, reduce, or replace the author's scholarly, ethical, or professional responsibilities.
Peer reviewers and editors must not upload unpublished manuscripts, review reports, author information, or other confidential material to public or unauthorized AI tools.
Where institutionally approved technologies are used, their use must remain consistent with the journal's requirements concerning confidentiality, information security, data protection, and appropriate disclosure.
If undisclosed, misleading, or inappropriate use of AI is suspected, BeMJ may assess the available evidence and take proportionate editorial action.
Depending on the circumstances, such action may include:
Believers Medical Journal (BeMJ) reviews this policy periodically and may update it when necessary to reflect developments in generative AI technology, scholarly publishing practices, and relevant ethical guidance.
The policy is informed by applicable COPE Core Practices, WAME recommendations, and DOAJ transparency principles, as relevant to the journal's publishing activities.