AI Policy

AI Policy

Alpine and Mediterranean Quaternary (AMQ)

 

1. Purpose

This policy establishes the principles governing the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the preparation, review, and publication of manuscripts submitted to Alpine and Mediterranean Quaternary (AMQ). AI technologies can assist scholarly work but may also introduce risks related to accuracy, authorship, originality, bias, and accountability. Therefore, their use must comply with principles of transparency, responsibility, and research integrity.

The journal requires full disclosure and responsible use of AI tools in all stages of the publication process.

 

2. Definition of AI Tools

For the purposes of this policy, AI tools include but are not limited to:

  • Generative AI systems (e.g., text generators or large language models)
  • AI-assisted writing or editing tools
  • AI-based image generation tools
  • Automated translation or summarization systems
  • Machine-learning tools used for data analysis or content generation

These tools may assist research activities but cannot replace human authorship or accountability.

 

3. Authorship and Responsibility

AI tools cannot be listed as authors of a manuscript.

Authorship implies responsibility for the integrity, accuracy, and originality of the work. Only human authors can assume this responsibility.

All authors remain fully responsible for:

  • The accuracy of all content
  • Proper citation of sources
  • Avoidance of plagiarism
  • Compliance with ethical standards

The use of AI tools does not transfer responsibility from the authors to the software developers or providers.

 

4. Acceptable Uses of AI

AI tools may be used for limited assistance in manuscript preparation, including:

  • Language editing and grammar correction
  • Improving readability or clarity
  • Code assistance for computational analysis
  • Data processing or pattern detection in research datasets

However, authors must ensure that:

  • AI outputs are carefully reviewed and verified
  • Scientific interpretations remain human-generated
  • AI-generated text is not used without proper validation and revision

 

5. Disclosure Requirements

Authors must disclose the use of AI tools in the Methods section or Acknowledgements of the manuscript.

The disclosure must include:

  • The name of the AI tool
  • The purpose for which it was used
  • Confirmation that the authors reviewed and verified the output

Example disclosure:

“The authors used [AI tool name] to assist with language editing. All scientific content, analysis, and interpretations were reviewed and verified by the authors.”

Failure to disclose AI use may be considered a breach of publication ethics.

 

6. Prohibited Uses

The following uses of AI are not permitted and may result in rejection:

  • Generating entire manuscripts or sections without substantial human oversight
  • Creating fabricated data, references, or results
  • Generating figures or images that misrepresent scientific observations
  • Using AI to manipulate peer review or editorial processes
  • Submitting AI-generated content without disclosure

 

7. AI Use in Peer Review

Reviewers must not upload confidential manuscripts or data into AI systems that may store, train on, or reuse the content.

Peer review materials are confidential and must not be shared with AI tools unless:

  • The system guarantees data confidentiality
  • No data retention or training occurs

Reviewers remain responsible for the originality and confidentiality of the review process.

 

8. Editorial Oversight

The editorial board of AMQ may:

  • Use AI-assisted tools for plagiarism detection, language screening, or editorial support
  • Evaluate suspected misuse of AI in submissions
  • Request additional clarification from authors regarding AI usage

The journal reserves the right to reject or retract manuscripts that violate this policy.

 

9. Ethical and Scientific Integrity

The use of AI must comply with fundamental academic principles including:

  • Transparency
  • Accountability
  • Fairness and bias mitigation
  • Data protection and privacy
  • Scientific reproducibility

Responsible governance and oversight are essential to ensure AI contributes positively to research while maintaining trust in scientific publishing.

 

10. Policy Updates

AI technologies evolve rapidly. This policy may be updated periodically to reflect:

  • Changes in publishing standards
  • Emerging ethical concerns
  • Developments in AI technologies

The latest version of this policy will always be available on the journal website.