The secondary scientific use of routine laboratory data will increasingly rely on LOINC as a semantic standard, particularly within the European Health Data Space (EHDS). LOINC enables the aggregation of large data sets from clinical care for research purposes, particularly in epidemiology. However, current approaches to semantic standardisation largely neglect metrological aspects-in particular, the considerable limitations of analytical standardisation for many fundamental analytes and the resulting scatter of result values across different assays that use common LOINC codes. This incomplete harmonisation leads to statistical uncertainty that must be taken into account when quantitative conclusions-such as diagnostic thresholds for analytes-are derived from aggregated, LOINC-derived data sets. In this opinion piece, we propose using the extensive global data pool generated by external quality assessment (EQA) programs to finally annotate LOINC codes with a sound and useful uncertainty metric. This represents secondary scientific use of EQA data that is analogous to and supports the secondary use of routine diagnostic data from patient care for research. With a proof-of-concept analysis, we demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, which offers a wide range of design options. We suggest that consortia of EQA providers, coding institutions, scientific societies, and the IVD industry could advance precision research through this concept. It is noteworthy that the proposed annotation strategy-linking semantic test codes to uncertainty metrics based on EQA data-is not limited to LOINC as a semantic coding system.

ABSTRACT The growing adoption of large language models (LLMs) in political communication research has prompted excitement but also concern. In this opinion piece, we offer an informed and critical overview of common LLM use cases in the field, including text analysis, synthetic data generation, and experiments. We argue that while these tools can be appealing, they often introduce serious epistemic, environ-mental, and infrastructural trade-offs that are insufficiently acknowledged. Beyond technical limitations, we highlight deeper issues related to scholarly autonomy, methodological opacity, resources inequality, and corporate dependency. Rather than dismissing innovation, we advocate for critical reflexivity and a renewed commitment to methodological rigor. While examining shortcomings of LLMs in current practices, we also point to viable alternatives. In essence, we call for a more deliberate, context-sensitive integration of LLMs in social science – one that prioritizes transparency, sustainability, and scientific integrity.

Introduction: Genus Peganum belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae. The most researched and well-known species is P. harmala, which is known as “Espand” in Iran, “Harmel” in North Africa, and “Turkish rue” in the US. It is widely available and used as a medicinal plant to treat a variety of conditions, including colic, asthma, high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cancer. The majority of experimental investigations conducted on the composition of these plant extracts revealed that the key alkaloidal chemical constituents are quinazoline and beta-carboline. The chemistry and pharmacology of the genus Peganum, and more especially the species P. harmala, are the subject of this review of the literature. Future in vivo research on humans will allow researchers to fully explore the Peganum genus' potential to enhance human health and well-being. Methods: First, a search was performed across different databases, including Scopus, Science Direct, Google Scholar, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PubMed from the year 2000 to 2025. Second, articles were chosen based on specific related criteria as mentioned below. As this is a review article, we include most types of articles relevant to our subject and published in peer-reviewed journals. Inclusion Criteria: • Original research articles, short communications, and comprehensive reviews published in peer-reviewed journals. • Studies focused explicitly on Peganum species, reporting phytochemical profiling, biological activity assessments, or both. • In vitro or in vivo pharmacological evaluations are conducted under standardized conditions. • Investigations into structure–activity relationships. Exclusion Criteria: • Non-peer-reviewed materials (e.g., conference abstracts, editorials, book chapters, theses). • Articles with inadequate methodological detail or irreproducible protocols. • Non-English articles without verified translations. • Case reports or opinion pieces without original data. Results: The search yielded 110 articles, and most of them were selected as the basis for the construction of the review. Discussion: This literature review discussed the biological constituents and pharmacology of genus Peganum. Conclusion: Based on the promising results collected in this manuscript, we recommend further research to be carried out on the extracts of plants of this genus for the extraction and identification of further molecules that can be helpful in medicine.

Directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) are now standard tools for selecting covariates and identifying estimands in causal inference. Yet in most applications, DAGs are treated as static and study-specific and then discarded rather than maintained as cumulative infrastructure. This Opinion piece argues that DAGs can serve a much broader role: as epistemic infrastructure that supports cumulative science. By treating DAGs as living, shared representations of causal systems-annotated with levels of evidence, revised over time, and tested empirically-we enable a mode of scientific practice that is transparent, collaborative, and intervention-oriented. Examples from spaceflight risk management and cerebral palsy research demonstrate how DAGs are already being used this way. I call on the field of epidemiology to adopt this approach more broadly: to share, refine, and re-use DAGs not just as tools of analysis, but as frameworks for designing better questions and building a more cumulative science.

Abstract This short opinion piece identifies declining priorities in academia and funding agencies in preserving and passing on a few key fundamental principles of engineering science. The article focuses on structural stability in mechanics and rotating machinery in dynamics as examples of where such principles are critical to model and design robust, safe and efficient industrial systems. The note concludes with some suggestions to help alleviate this problem.

Interest in psychoactive substances, including psychedelics, is rapidly expanding in medical, academic, and other popular fields. Despite the classifications established within the psychopharmacological scientific community, certain plants, animals, and fungi, as well as the substances obtained from them, have been misclassified by both the media and academic circles. This opinion piece aims to present arguments to answer the following question: Is CBD a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid? Hundreds of robust scientific studies published in recent years involving CBD have strengthened its clinical use in the treatment of seizures, anxiety, psychosis, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction. As part of the arguments to answer the question posed, this text provides a historical overview of the classifications of psychoactive substances available to date, and offers reflections on these terminologies and a proposed classification of psychedelics.

Approaches for reporting and interpreting statistically nonsignificant findings in evidence syntheses: a systematic review.

Oxidative stress in diabetic retinopathy: Metabolic triggers, molecular pathways and emerging antioxidant therapies.

Blinded by the lights? Re-examining the adaptive role of transposable elements in plants with population genomics.

Microbial volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are integral to microbial ecological communication. Their potential as tools for sustainable crop protection is increasingly recognised, yet practical implementation remains limited. There are numerous invitro lab-based studies focussed on screening single strains of soil or plant-associated microbes for their ability to produce VOCs and demonstrate their potential to inhibit plant pathogens or pests. Most of these, however, lack any validation in planta or in the field after petri dish experiments. This extends to a lack of understanding on whether the same VOCs are produced invitro as in planta. How do we shift this focus and move from exciting lab-based discoveries to practical, scalable crop protection solutions for farmers? This opinion piece explores the current state of research on microbial VOCs for crop protection, translational challenges in deploying them on-farm, and highlights areas where learnings from the ecological roles of microbial VOCs can be leveraged towards field application.

This opinion piece explores the neurobiological and neuropsychological underpinnings of Solution Focused practice. Neuroscience is increasingly being applied to humans’ psychological functions and behaviour; however, there remains a notable gap in research directly connecting therapeutic interventions to changes in neurobiological function. Drawing on our conversations, research, and reflections, we investigate how core Solution Focus components—such as detailed descriptions of preferred futures, client agency, pausing, complimenting, and therapist curiosity—may intersect with concepts like neuroplasticity, memory, motivation, and neurochemical elements such as dopamine and oxytocin. We discuss relevant neuroscience literature and caution against simplistic or overstated claims. Instead, we propose that exploring neurobiological correlates is a promising direction for understanding why a Solution Focused approach works, not to validate it, but to deepen the conversation about its mechanisms. Our aim is to invite more curiosity and inquiry into this emerging intersection of neuroscience and Solution Focused thinking and practice.

Electrophysiological studies have played a crucial role for the present conceptualization of Insomnia Disorder (ID) as a 24-h disorder characterized by hyperarousal expressed during wakefulness and sleep. In this Opinion piece, we highlight novel findings and delineate relevant future directions in the field of electroencephalographic (EEG) assessment in ID. Prolonged home recordings are crucial to provide ecological assessment also considering night-to-night variability. High-density EEG allows the description of local frequency-specific electrophysiological alterations in ID. A multimodal approach, combining EEG with neuroimaging techniques and non-invasive brain stimulation, may be informative about the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying ID and guide the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. Also, we highlight the need for longitudinal studies in this field. Novel approaches to quantitative EEG are represented by the assessment of aperiodic components and genuine oscillatory events. Finally, emerging research avenues include the assessment of sleep EEG hallmarks (e.g., sleep spindles and K-complexes) beyond their mere quantification, the application of artificial intelligence for automated identification and subtyping of ID, and EEG-based functional connectivity.

Purpose This opinion piece aims to explore the complex and often ambivalent role of spiritual and faith-based communities in relation to mental wellbeing and social inclusion. Rather than treating these communities as either inherently protective or inherently harmful, this study examines the conditions under which they may nurture belonging, recognition and relational care, particularly among individuals who experience poverty, migration, aging, stigma or social isolation. Design/methodology/approach This paper develops a reflective, conceptual and theoretically informed discussion grounded in social inclusion and relational wellbeing perspectives. Drawing on contemporary debates on spirituality, community life and the social determinants of mental health, it critically considers both the supportive and poctentially exclusionary dynamics present within spiritual environments, including issues of stigma, power, moral judgment and autonomy. Findings The analysis suggests that spiritual communities can contribute to mental wellbeing when they cultivate compassion, openness, continuity of care and respect for diversity, providing accessible spaces of belonging and meaning outside formal services. However, when they reproduce coercive structures, silence vulnerability or discourage professional help-seeking, they may intensify exclusion and distress. This paper argues for dialogue, rather than opposition, between spiritual communities and mental health services, grounded in ethical responsibility and mutual respect. Originality/value This study offers a nuanced and context-sensitive account of spirituality and mental health that moves beyond polarized debates. By framing spiritual communities as relational social environments rather than purely doctrinal institutions, it highlights their potential, and their limits, as sites of social inclusion and psychosocial support in contemporary societies.

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria in Healthy Occupational Voice Users in Human Research: A Scoping Review.

Abstract The UGC-CARE List, introduced in June 2019, was a significant step toward enhancing research quality in India by regulating the standards of academic publications. However, the recent announcement of its withdrawal has sparked diverse opinions and concerns across the research community. This opinion piece presents reflections gathered from a survey of 200 researchers across India on the dissolution of the UGC-CARE List and its potential impact on the nation’s research landscape. Respondents expressed the chance of return of predatory publishing practices, fragmentation in journal standards, and diminished credibility of Indian research. While acknowledging existing limitations within the UGC-CARE system, such as limited disciplinary representation and inconsistencies in journal listings, the majority emphasized the need for centralized quality checks and expert oversight. This piece outlines the key factors that could affect publication output in the absence of UGC-CARE List and recommends crucial measures to uphold research integrity, including rigorous training and transparent evaluation mechanisms to be followed by the scrutinizing committee at institutional level.

The idea of the “alignment tax” often appears in discussions about developing artificial intelligence. It suggests that safety measures slow down innovation and competitiveness. This opinion piece challenges that view. It claims that safety should be seen as an important part of technological capability, not as an added cost. By looking at examples from the aviation industry and recent progress in AI research, the article shows how interpretability, constitutional AI, and scalable oversight lead to more reliable, controllable, and socially acceptable systems. It argues that the real cost comes not from investing in safety, but from ignoring it. This neglect can cause societal harm, erode public trust, and invite more regulatory scrutiny. By viewing safety as a driver of long-term innovation, this article encourages the integration of alignment research into the foundation of AI development. This approach aims for sustainable and responsible progress.

Introduction. Robotic surgery is progressively transforming postgraduate medical education (PME); however, its integration into training programs remains heterogeneous, with persistent shortcomings in access, curriculum standardization, resident autonomy, and competency assessment. Objective. To synthesize and map the main challenges associated with integrating robotic surgical procedures into PME across seven domains: access, curriculum, institutional support, resident experience, assessment, barriers, and outcomes. The guiding question was: What are the challenges of integrating robotic surgical procedures into postgraduate medical education? Methods. A narrative thematic review was conducted of peer-reviewed studies published in 2025, in English, and indexed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies that evaluated the integration of robotic procedures into residency or fellowship programs and addressed at least one of the predefined domains were included. Studies unrelated to GME, technical reports without training outcomes, opinion pieces, preprints, duplicates, and non-robotic training programs were excluded. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a standardized framework, and no meta-analysis was performed. Results: The programs reported unequal access to robotic platforms, dual-console systems, simulators, and protected training time, resulting in fragmented, competency-based curricula with poorly defined milestones and inconsistent institutional support. Although residents showed high motivation, hands-on experience was variable, and autonomy at the console was limited. Available assessment tools showed potential but lacked robust validation and formal alignment with accreditation standards. Implementation was further constrained by high costs, a shortage of trained instructors, medico-legal concerns, workflow limitations, and structural inequalities. The results showed improvements in simulation metrics and processes, while the transfer to independent surgical competence and improved clinical outcomes was inconsistent. Conclusions. The integration of robotic surgery into advanced medical training remains limited by inequities in access and an inconsistent curricular and institutional infrastructure. Its advancement will require standardized, competency-based training pathways, equitable access to technology, and sustained investment in faculty development, simulation, mentorship, and validated assessment systems.

This opinion piece summarizes the epistemic benefits of using robust statistical tests in the falsificationist tradition over standard tests such as the t -test, ANOVA, and tests in ordinary least squares regression. I demonstrate this with robust linear regression which does not hinge on normally distributed errors with equal variances and the inconsequentiality of extreme values and outliers. Tests with these broad robustness features act against nonreplication that can occur solely because data anomalies arise differently across studies. Using such a test from the outset sidesteps the pitfalls of making a data-based decision about whether a standard test is applicable. The common practice of conducting a robust test in addition, commonly in response to data inspection, yields multiple test results. I argue that these should be avoided when a binary decision must be reached, for example, whether to conduct further research on the basis on the assumption that an effect exists. Practically, using a single test simplifies analysis. While R offers numerous robust methods, the ones that provide broad robustness are largely restricted to linear models.

Background: Childbirth experiences differ widely, shaped by cultural beliefs, socioeconomic status, healthcare infrastructure, and delivery location. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), limited access to quality care and higher maternal mortality rates deeply affect women’s experiences and outcomes. While prior studies have typically examined economic, social, or structural influences independently, a comprehensive approach that integrates these domains is needed. This study aims to examine the economic, social, and structural factors influencing maternal experiences in LMICs and assess how these factors shape both the choice of delivery location and maternal care experience. Subjects and Method: A literature search of studies from 2014 to 2024 was conducted using MEDLINE and Google Scholar. Controlled vocabulary (e.g., MeSH terms) and Boolean operators combined terms such as “midwives,” “birth assistants,” “LMICs,” “hospital birth,” and “maternal mortality rates.” Only peer-reviewed quantitative and qualitative English-language studies examining maternal birth experience in LMICs were included. Grey literature, reviews, and opinion pieces were excluded. Findings were organized using a global framework on maternal health determinants. Results: Of 114 articles identified, 8 met the inclusion criteria, covering studies from Bangladesh, Ethiopia, rural Sierra Leone, Kenya, rural Zambia, Chiapas (Mexico), and Eritrea. These studies revealed that maternal experience and delivery location are shaped by economic, social and structural factors. Hospital fees and informal costs discouraged facility-based births, while limited education, cultural norms and male-dominated decision-making reduced women’s autonomy in choosing their delivery location. Structural challenges, including staff shortages, lack of privacy, and poor rural access, further limited hospital deliveries. Conclusion: Maternal birth experiences in LMICs are influenced by hospital delivery costs, cultural beliefs, limited education and awareness, and inadequate healthcare facilities, which reduce access to quality care and undermine women’s autonomy. Targeted interventions, such as affordable, culturally sensitive, and accessible healthcare and education-focused initiatives, are essential to enhancing maternal birth experiences and outcomes.

This empirical study examines the hijab as a linguacultural phenomenon through a comparative critical discourse analysis of its representation across three distinct contexts: Pakistani English language media, Western international news outlets, and digital self-representation on Instagram. Addressing the gap between theoretical discussions of the hijab and analysis of its actual mediated discourse, the research employs Geertzian thick description as an interpretive lens to uncover the layered cultural meanings embedded in language. A curated corpus of 120 text based items (news articles, opinion pieces, and Instagram captions) from 2020 2023 was analyzed using a qualitative, interpretive framework. Findings reveal three dominant but divergent framing paradigms: 1) Western media discourse predominantly utilizes politicized and securitized frames that associate the hijab with conflict; 2) Pakistani media navigates a complex narrative of religious identity, modernity, and cultural preservation; 3) Digital spaces manifest a paradigm of personal agency, aesthetic expression, and community building. The study concludes that these conflicting framings constitute significant barriers to transcultural communication, as interlocutors operate from incommensurate meaning systems. It argues that thick description, applied to mediated discourse, provides a crucial methodological tool for deconstructing simplistic binaries and fostering intercultural understanding. The research contributes to intercultural communication theory by demonstrating how symbolic meaning is contested and negotiated in an increasingly mediated global sphere.