Data Availability Expectations

Authors should include a data availability statement describing where supporting data can be accessed or why access is restricted.

Transparent data access strengthens reproducibility and supports clinical validation of robotics and AI systems.

Recommended Repositories

When possible, deposit datasets, code, and supplementary materials in trusted repositories. Include persistent links and version details so readers can reproduce results.

Sensitive or Restricted Data

For patient data, imaging, or proprietary device data, provide a clear explanation of restrictions and the process for qualified access.

Anonymization and ethical approvals must be documented in the manuscript.

Software and Code

Source code, model weights, and configuration files should be shared when feasible. If code cannot be released, provide methodological detail and evaluation protocols sufficient for validation.

Clinical and Engineering Impact

JRAI focuses on research that advances patient outcomes and technical performance. We emphasize reproducible methods, transparent reporting, and practical implementation insights for robotics and AI systems in surgery and healthcare.

Author Support

The editorial office provides guidance on scope, formatting, and compliance so research teams can move efficiently from submission to publication. Clear communication helps interdisciplinary teams align technical and clinical expectations.

Metadata and Documentation

Include clear dataset descriptions, variable definitions, and collection methods. Good metadata improves reuse and citation.

Repository Selection

Choose repositories that provide persistent identifiers and long term storage. Repositories should allow versioning so updates to datasets or code are tracked clearly.

De Identification Practices

Remove direct identifiers and apply de identification procedures consistent with ethics approvals. If anonymization is limited, describe controlled access procedures.

Algorithm Inputs and Outputs

Document input data formats, preprocessing steps, and output variables. Clear documentation helps others reproduce model behavior and validate results.

Data Availability Statements

Every manuscript should include a data availability statement with repository links or access instructions. If data is restricted, provide the reason and a contact pathway.

Code and Model Weights

When possible, share code repositories and model weights that support reproducibility. If restrictions apply, describe alternative validation approaches or synthetic data availability.

Clinical Imaging and Video

Imaging datasets and surgical videos should include consent documentation and usage rights. Provide clear labeling and compression details to preserve interpretability.

Data Retention

Retain primary data and logs for a reasonable period to support verification if questions arise. Data retention aligns with research integrity expectations.

Access Request Process

When data access is restricted, describe how qualified researchers can request access. Provide contact details, review criteria, and expected response timelines.

Synthetic Data Options

If privacy restrictions limit sharing, consider providing synthetic datasets or simulated scenarios that preserve methodological transparency without exposing sensitive information.

Institutional Policies

Follow institutional and funding body policies for data retention and sharing. Document approvals and compliance in the data availability statement.

Data Citation

Cite datasets with persistent identifiers when available. Proper data citation supports reuse tracking and credit for data generation efforts.

Audit Trails and Logs

For robotic systems and AI pipelines, retain logs that document inputs, processing steps, and outputs. Audit trails support validation and troubleshooting when questions arise.

Telemetry and Sensor Data

When sensor telemetry is central to the analysis, document sampling rates, calibration procedures, and data cleaning steps. These details help reviewers assess signal quality and system performance.

Reuse Terms

Clarify any reuse limitations or licensing terms for data, code, or models. Clear terms help downstream users comply with ethical and legal requirements.

Embargo and Release Timing

If data cannot be released immediately, specify the embargo period and planned release date. This allows readers to understand when materials will become available.

Interoperability

Use common file formats and include schemas or data dictionaries to improve interoperability. Standard formats make it easier for other teams to reuse and compare results.

Data Governance

Document governance structures for shared datasets, including stewardship responsibilities and access approvals. Clear governance protects patient rights and supports responsible data reuse. Governance statements also clarify responsibility for updates, corrections, and data withdrawal if issues arise. This protects downstream users and supports institutional compliance with privacy and security rules in multi site collaborations and long term stewardship plans.