Understanding the nuances between figure reproduction, adaptation, and redrawing is crucial, especially when incorporating visuals into scholarly work. Let's delve into the distinctions and explore the permissions required, focusing on a practical example.

Reproduction, Adaptation, and Redrawing Defined:

• Reproduction: Utilizing a figure exactly as published.
• Adaptation: Modifying a published figure, adding or deleting information.
• Redrawing: Creating a new figure from scratch using different data or results.

Adapted vs. Redrawn Figures: Consider a scenario where you're presenting a new extraction method. If modifying an existing figure with different materials, it's considered an adapted figure, necessitating permission. Redrawing involves creating a new figure based on a similar scheme, typically not requiring permission but advisable to seek consent.

Acquiring Copyright Permissions: A Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Determine Permission Need:

• Assess whether laws or intellectual property rights apply.
• Verify if intended use complies with legal requirements.

For works not under copyright protection:

• Public domain works can be used without permission.
• Original and unpublished works can be used directly.

For copyrighted works:

• Permission is required, except for "fair use" purposes (criticism, teaching, research).

Step 2: Identify Copyright Holder:

• Most often, the publisher owns the copyright.
• If not, the publisher can guide you to the copyright owner.

Step 3: Request Permission:

• Email the copyright owner with specifics:
  • Article title, authors, DOI, page numbers.
  • Attach an image or snapshot of the figure.
  • Share the link to the specific item.
  • Specify the purpose, number of copies, inquire about license fees.

Useful tools for permissions:

• RightsLink for certain publishers like Royal Society of Chemistry and Springer.

Step 4: Properly Cite the Original Work:

• Upon receiving permission, accurately acknowledge the source:
  • "Reproduced/Adapted from [Reference] with permission from [Copyright owner]."
  • "Reprinted from [Publication title, Volume/edition number, Author(s), Title of chapter/title of article, Page number, Copyright year] with permission from [Copyright Owner]."

Final Note: Always obtain written permissions to avoid potential disputes, ensuring clarity on terms and agreements between you and the copyright owner. By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate figures into your scholarly work while respecting intellectual property rights.