Endorsement of artificial intelligence guidelines across leading rheumatology journals: A cross-sectional analysis

Abstract

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a tool that is revolutionizing research and medicine, including rheumatology. While AI offers numerous benefits, its integration raises concern about ethical use, potential bias, and clinical implementation. The development of effective policies by rheumatology journals is crucial given to the high prevalence and disabling nature of rheumatologic conditions. Our study’s aim is to evaluate rheumatology journals policies regarding the use of AI in research.Methods: We evaluated the instructions for authors of the 71 highest ranked rheumatology journals according to the 2023 SCimago Journal Rankings. Data on AI related policies was extracted by authors including authorship criteria, publication policies, and AI usage in content and image generation. Our analysis included descriptive statistics using RStudio and R(version 4.2.1).Results: Our search initially identified 71 rheumatology journals, of which 67 met inclusion criteria. We found that 37 (55.2%) journals explicitly mentioned the use of AI in their Instructions for Authors. Content generation by AI was prohibited for manuscript writing in 4 (5.9%) journals and prohibited for image generation in 12 (17.9%) journals. Established AI reporting guidelines were referenced by 3 (4.5%) journals.Conclusion: Policies regarding AI usage in rheumatology journals are inconsistent, despite recognition of AI’s growing role. To advance the field, we recommend that rheumatology journals address AI usage in their instructions for authors and endorse the use of established reporting guidelines. Taking these steps will enhance reproducibility, transparency, and ethical integrity of rheumatology research