I. Policy Statement and Scope

Passerelle recognizes that Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools (such as large language models [LLMs] or other generative software) are powerful instruments for research and language refinement. However, the application of AI tools must adhere to the highest standards of transparency, integrity, and ethical accountability.

This policy requires that all use of Generative AI in the creation of scientific manuscripts must be explicitly declared and used only as a support tool, not as a substitute for human intellectual effort or responsibility. This policy works in conjunction with our Plagiarism Policy and Ethical Standards.

II. AI as an Author (Prohibited)

Generative AI tools and technologies cannot be listed as an author or co-author on any manuscript. Authorship must be limited exclusively to human individuals who have met the standard requirements of making a significant intellectual contribution to the research's conception, design, execution, or interpretation. AI tools cannot assume responsibility or accountability for the work, which is a fundamental requirement of authorship. The use of AI tools does not diminish or transfer the authors’ responsibility for the accuracy, originality, and integrity of the submitted work. The human authors bear full legal and ethical responsibility for all content, including any material generated by AI.

III. AI as a Tool (Permitted Use and Declaration)

The use of Generative AI to edit, analyze, or generate content is permitted only under strict conditions of disclosure. AI tools must not be used to generate interpretations, arguments, or conclusions that form the core claims of the research, nor may they be used to fabricate, modify, or manipulate research data. Furthermore, authors are explicitly prohibited from using AI to generate or create citations. Authors bear full responsibility for the accuracy, verification, and proper formatting of every reference.

If Generative AI has been used in any capacity that goes beyond standard spell-checking or grammar correction (e.g., summarizing, rephrasing, or generating text), the authors must provide a dedicated section, titled "Declaration of Generative AI and AI-Assisted Technologies in the Writing Process," before the References. In this section, authors must disclose the name of the AI tool used, the version number (if available), and the exact purpose for which it was employed.

Required Declaration Template

Declaration of Generative AI and AI-Assisted Technologies in the Writing Process

During the preparation of this work, the author(s) used [NAME OF AI TOOL, e.g., ChatGPT 4.0] in order to [STATE THE EXACT PURPOSE, e.g., "rephrase and check for clarity in the 'Methods' section" or "generate a summary of the literature review"]. After using this tool, the author(s) reviewed and edited the content as needed and take full responsibility for the content of the publication.

To ensure full verifiability, authors are expected to maintain internal records of the specific prompts used and be prepared to provide these to the Editorial Board upon request. Authors are also responsible for ensuring that any AI-generated data or code integrated into the manuscript is accurate, verified, and free of plagiarism, and must be made available as required by our Data Sharing and Availability Policy.

IV. Misconduct and Consequences

Attributing AI-generated content (text, ideas, code) as one's own original work without proper disclosure is considered a form of research misconduct and plagiarism. Failure to adequately declare the use of Generative AI may lead to investigation under the Publication Malpractice Statement. Consequences may include immediate rejection or, if discovered post-publication, retraction of the article.