Unlocking the potential of AI in overcoming language barriers in academic publishing

State of the Journal, 2023

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy (AJOT) has maintained its top-ranking status in the field of occupational therapy, as evidenced by an increase in its 2-yr impact factor. As the Editor-in-Chief enters her second 3-yr term, the journal faces both challenges and opportunities stemming from trends in academic publishing. The editorial team seeks to navigate these shifts while fostering meaningful research dissemination and translation. Key outcomes for 2023 showcase the journal's dedication to addressing diverse occupational therapy needs. A special issue on autism and mental health in 2023 and upcoming themes on recovery after neurological injury and play in occupational therapy in 2024 exemplify AJOT's commitment to relevant topics. The AJOT Authors & Issues interview series and an active presence on social media platforms further bolster research engagement and translation. Despite challenges, AJOT's impact factor and rankings in the rehabilitation category have demonstrated its global influence and leadership. The journal's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is evident through initiatives such as AJOT's DEI Committee and DEI article collection, as well as AJOT's comprehensive approach to combating bias. As AJOT looks ahead to 2024, its goals include reviving State of the Science articles, updating our Author Guidelines to incorporate artificial intelligence and bias-free language policies, and fostering engagement through the AJOT Instagram account and monthly AJOT Authors & Issues discussions. With its dedication to rigorous research and meaningful translation, AJOT remains a crucial resource for occupational therapy professionals striving to make evidence-based decisions.