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Policies

Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Scholarly Work

Ascend recognizes the growing role of AI tools in academic research and writing. In line with COPE guidance, AI cannot be credited as an author, because it cannot assume accountability for the integrity, originality or ethical responsibility of scholarly work.

Last updated: 4 August 2026

Permissible Uses of AI

Authors may use AI tools to support their work, including:

  • Grammar correction and language refinement
  • Data analysis and coding assistance
  • Image refinement or visualisation
  • Literature organization and reference management

Any use of AI tools must be transparent and properly acknowledged in the manuscript's methodology or acknowledgements section. For example: “ChatGPT was used to refine the language but not to generate substantive content.”

Intellectual Responsibility

Responsibility for intellectual integrity, precision, interpretation of data and originality lies entirely with the authors. AI-generated content may assist in the writing process, but it must never supplant critical thinking, data analysis, or the synthesis of existing literature.

Authors must verify the accuracy of any AI-assisted text. That means confirming that every citation exists and is correctly attributed, actively guarding against bias, and ensuring that no fabricated references appear in the work. Human authors carry full accountability for the credibility of their manuscripts, regardless of what assistance they received.

Prohibited Uses of AI

Ascend has a strict policy against the following:

  • Generating fake or fabricated data, which undermines the integrity of the research and its results
  • Producing falsified or fabricated references, which misleads readers and discredits legitimate scholarship
  • Generating synthetic images without disclosure, which can distort the representation of results
  • Drafting entire manuscripts using AI tools, which raises fundamental concerns about originality and authenticity

Manuscripts suspected of undisclosed AI-generated content, falsified citations, or AI-drafted research will be investigated following COPE procedures, and may result in rejection, retraction, or sanctions against the authors.

The Role of Turnitin

All submitted manuscripts are screened using Turnitin for both plagiarism and AI-generated content. The similarity index must not exceed 20%. Turnitin's AI-detection capabilities may also be used to identify AI-generated content that the author has not disclosed.

Authors are responsible for ensuring their manuscripts pass both the plagiarism and AI integrity checks before submission.

Editorial and Reviewer Use of AI

Editors and reviewers are encouraged to use AI tools for specific, bounded tasks:

  • Detecting instances of plagiarism
  • Verifying references
  • Screening language for clarity and correctness

Reliance on AI must not extend to academic judgment, interpretation, or final decision-making. The obligation of scholarly evaluation remains firmly with qualified individuals.