Academics warn new science papers are being generated with AI chatbots

Academics are warning that more scientific papers show signs of being partially generated with the help of AI chatbots.

Social media users and academics are warning that more scientific papers show signs of being partially generated with the help of AI chatbots.

For example, a paper published on ScienceDirect, titled ‘The three-dimensional porous mesh structure of Cu-based metal-organic-framework - aramid cellulose separator enhances the electrochemical performance of lithium metal anode batteries,’ published in March 2024 started its introduction with the phrase: “Certainly, here is a possible introduction for your topic:” before covering the subject at hand.

The phrase is commonly used by chatbots such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT when they provide responses to user queries.

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As of Friday, the paper was still accessible through ScienceDirect and the introduction had not been edited or updated. ScienceDirect allows users to digitally access the works of the Dutch academic publisher Elsevier.

Elsevier is known for its stringent stance against digital piracy and has pursued legal cases against shadow libraries providing free downloads of its publications.

Meanwhile, the stock phrase “as of my last knowledge update” - most commonly used by ChatGPT - was identified in several academic journals when looked up via Google Scholar, reported tech outlet 404 Media on March 18.