Author and Publication

Authorship Criteria

Authorship in academic publications is determined based on substantial contributions to the research process. The International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) provides recommendations for defining the role of authors and contributors in scholarly work[1].

Substantial Contributions

According to the ICMJE recommendations, authorship should be based on substantial contributions to the conception, design, acquisition, analysis, interpretation of data, drafting, critical review, final approval, and accountability for the work[1].

Identification of Authors

All individuals who meet the authorship criteria should be identified as authors, while those who do not meet all criteria but have made contributions should be acknowledged[1].

Order of Authors

The order of authors in a publication should be collectively decided by the author group. The corresponding author, who takes primary responsibility for communication with the journal, should be clearly identified[1].

Non-Author Contributors

Acknowledging the contributions of individuals who do not meet all the authorship criteria is important. Examples of non-author contributors include those involved in funding acquisition, general supervision, administrative support, writing assistance, technical editing, language editing, and proofreading[1].

Inclusion of Local Researchers

Excluding local researchers from low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) from authorship when the data used in the research are from LMICs is discouraged. Including local authors adds fairness, context, and implications to the research[1].

Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Assisted Technology

Authors should disclose the use of AI-assisted technologies in their work and provide a description of how they were utilized. AI-assisted technologies should not be listed as authors, and humans remain responsible for the development, implementation, and interpretation of AI-generated material in scholarly publications[1].

In conclusion, adhering to the ICMJE recommendations ensures that authorship in academic publications is based on substantial contributions to the research process. Acknowledging non-author contributors, including local researchers, and appropriately disclosing the use of AI-assisted technologies are crucial for responsible authorship.

Sources:

[1] ICMJE | Recommendations | Defining the Role of Authors and Contributors. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.icmje.org/recommendations/browse/roles-and-responsibilities/defining-the-role-of-authors-and-contributors.html

FAQs

What criteria determine authorship in academic publications?

What constitutes substantial contributions in the research process?

Substantial contributions include involvement in the conception, design, acquisition, analysis, interpretation of data, drafting, critical review, final approval, and accountability for the work.

How should authors be identified in a publication?

All individuals who meet the authorship criteria should be identified as authors. Those who do not meet all criteria but have contributed in some capacity should be acknowledged.

How should the order of authors be determined?

How should non-author contributors be acknowledged?

Non-author contributors, such as those involved in funding acquisition, general supervision, administrative support, writing assistance, technical editing, language editing, and proofreading, should be acknowledged for their specific contributions.

Should local researchers from low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) be included as authors when data are from LMICs?

Excluding local researchers from LMICs from authorship when the data used in the research are from LMICs is discouraged. Inclusion of local authors adds fairness, context, and implications to the research.

How should the use of AI-assisted technologies be disclosed in publications?

What are the implications of adhering to responsible authorship practices?

Adhering to responsible authorship practices ensures transparency, fairness, and recognition of contributions in academic publications. It enhances the credibility and integrity of research and promotes ethical collaboration within the scientific community.