AI-Produced Rat Reproductive Anomalies in Scholarly Journal

The journal Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology retracted a paper after receiving reader feedback that the accompanying images were inaccurately generated by an AI tool. The editors explained that concerns about the authenticity of the AI-generated figures prompted the retraction.

The article, focused on stem cell research in small mammals, featured images of rat anatomy evidently generated by an AI system. One image depicted a rat with disproportionately enlarged genitalia, not found in nature, while some accompanying text was unintelligible. Another image misrepresented the structure of a rat cell.

AI-Generated Images Spark Concerns in Scientific Publishing

These anomalous images raise concerns within the scientific community regarding the use of AI for creating technical paper content, especially in reputable journals. It remains unclear how such flawed images passed peer review. The authors, a collaborative team from Hong Hui Hospital and Jiaotong University in China, openly acknowledged their use of AI, crediting Midjourney.

Frontiers, known for permitting AI-generated content with proper disclosure, initially indicated corrections would be made before retracting the article. The incident underscores the necessity for fact-checking AI-generated materials, as outlined in the journal’s policy.

This oversight highlights potential challenges in vetting AI-generated content, prompting discussions on necessary safeguards to prevent future mishaps.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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