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Cureus Stands for Human Thought: New AI Restrictions in Our Terms & Conditions


Who Owns YOUR Ideas & Hard Work: Cureus Believes YOU do!  In this new era of AI bots, Silicon Valley’s Big Bad Tech are all getting super rich training their large language models (LLMs) by using the published work of real creators like you. By arguing that the intent of existing Creative Commons licenses are ambiguous, the AI industry is vacuuming up human ingenuity claiming this to be “fair use” of open access content. Cureus is hereby the first medical journal to say, NO! Your ideas are YOUR ideas, so if the AI industry wants to use YOUR published ideas, they must now ask for YOUR permission. Protecting Human Intelligence in an Age of Algorithms  At Cureus, we believe in the radical notion that authors still matter. That human beings (not machines) are the true drivers of knowledge, insight, and progress. We believe authorship is sacred. And today, we’re making a declaration to instill these values into the fabric of our existence. New AI Restrictions in Our Terms & Conditions We’ve updated our Terms & Conditions to explicitly restrict the use of Cureus content by artificial intelligence systems, including use for training, data mining, or generating derivative works. These Use Restrictions are designed to protect both the originality of your work as an author and the sanctity of human thought. “In connection with your Use of the Site Content, you must:…not use the Site Content in combination with artificial intelligence, including, without limitation, to train an algorithm, machine learning tool, or other artificial intelligence technology; to conduct data mining; or to generate any output or derivative work based on Site Content.” This is not merely a legal update. It’s a bold affirmation of our author-first mission. A global call to respect the irreplaceable creativity of the human mind. Why This Matters We are the first medical journal to take this stand. Why? Because the publishing world is slipping toward a dangerous precipice, where ease trumps integrity and derivatives outnumber originals. Cureus refuses to be complicit. We are not anti-technology. We are pro-human. We are not anti-progress. We are pro-author. In an age where AI can mimic the form of knowledge without understanding its meaning, Cureus believes in preserving the thoughts of real people — clinicians, scientists, educators, and thinkers, whose lived experiences, training, and personal insights and discoveries cannot be replicated by machines. This isn’t just policy. It’s a principle. Authorship is a Human Right From the beginning, Cureus was designed to democratize medical publishing, not digitize it into oblivion. Our platform exists to elevate your voice, not dilute it in an algorithm’s endless remix. As AI grows more powerful, so too must our resolve to protect what is authentically human. Our authors and their ideas are not training data. This is about preserving history. About honoring great thinkers, not absorbing their genius into a machine's predictive soup. It’s about safeguarding knowledge as a living, human legacy. We invite other journals and institutions to follow our lead. To advocate for authors. To defend originality. To be human-first. We are Cureus. And we’re here to protect what matters most — your voice.

Aug 25, 2025

How to Drive Submissions and Visibility: Guest Editor Video Guide


Why Make a Video? Guest editor videos are a powerful tool to spotlight your Cureus Collection and amplify its reach. Promote your collections with short intro videos that boost visibility, encourage submissions, and drive engagement. Engage Your Audience: Creating a video adds a personal touch to your message, making it more engaging and memorable. It’s an effective way to boost visibility and attract quality submissions, all while showcasing your leadership as a guest editor. Elevate Your Collection: A video helps bring your collection to life, fostering deeper connections with potential contributors. With Cureus’ social media reach, your video will increase visibility, encourage submissions, and highlight your role as a thought leader in your field. Maximize Impact: Videos are powerful tools for engagement. By sharing your vision and the importance of your collection, you’ll not only raise awareness but also inspire more researchers to contribute, all while enhancing the credibility of your collection. How to Structure Your Video? Introduction: Name, title, institution Quick sentence about your area of research About the Collection: Topic, significance, impact Who should submit? (specific fields, specialties) Call to Action: Why submit to Cureus (quick and efficient, PubMed indexing, Open Access benefits) Invite researchers to contribute Example Script Opening: "I'm Dr. [Name], a [Specialty] at [Institution] and Guest Editor for the Cureus Collection on [Topic]. This collection addresses [key challenge/importance], and we’re inviting submissions on [themes or article types]. Cureus offers fast, Open Access publishing with PubMed indexing helping your work reach a global audience quickly and effectively." Filming Tips for Professional Results Camera: Phone or webcam Lighting: Face natural light or use a soft ring light Audio: Clear microphone, quiet space Background: Neutral, tidy, professional setting Length: 1-2 minutes Tone: Professional but approachable Recommended Editing Tools (Free or Easy-to-Use): CapCut iMovie InShot Canva Video Editor Adobe Premiere Rush Submission & Promotion Send your video (MP4 or MOV) to [email protected] Approved videos will be promoted on Cureus’ YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X We’ll tag you so you can reshare with your network Need Help? We’re happy to provide additional guidance on filming, messaging, or editing. Bring Your Collection to Life Your video is more than a promotion. It’s an invitation for collaboration, visibility, and meaningful contributions to your specialty.

Jul 25, 2025

Cureus Launches Chinese Website


Cureus Launches Chinese Website to Expand Access to Global Medical Research Cureus, the Springer Nature open-access medical journal known for disrupting academic publishing, is proud to announce the launch of its Chinese-language website. This initiative is a major step forward in Cureus’ mission to democratize medical publishing by eliminating language barriers and empowering researchers around the world, especially in regions with fast-growing scientific output and academic interest like China. Accessible. Inclusive. Author-Driven. The new website provides simplified Chinese navigation and access to essential Cureus resources, making it easier for Chinese-speaking users to: Learn how to publish with Cureus Explore our publishing model and platform benefits Access author guidance While editorial submissions and peer review remain in English, this platform serves as a major gateway for Chinese medical professionals to discover and contribute to Cureus’ global medical community. Why Publish with Cureus? Fast Publishing: Median submission-to-publication time of just 26 days Affordable Pricing: Preferred editing services average only $370 — no hidden fees or inflated APCs Multidisciplinary Scope: Over 60 recognized medical specialties represented Inclusive Article Types: We publish original research, case reports, technical reports, reviews, and editorials Unmatched Visibility: Your work reaches a global audience through our Open Access platform, Springer Nature partnership, and indexing in PubMed, Baidu, CNKI, Google Scholar, and more Trusted Quality and Integrity: Rigorous peer review and strict research integrity policies ensure your work meets international publishing standards A Global Platform, Now More Local As medical science becomes increasingly international, Cureus is dedicated to building bridges. The launch of our Chinese website reflects our commitment to expanding access, promoting integrity, and accelerating discovery across borders.

Jun 13, 2025

Understanding the Overlap: Menopause, Hormonal Changes, and Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in Women


Sponsored Menopause marks a pivotal shift in a woman’s life, often accompanied by a variety of physical and emotional changes. While hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings are well-known symptoms, one of the less-discussed but equally impactful changes is the decline in sexual desire. This is where Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) enters the conversation. Characterized by a persistent lack of interest in sexual activity, HSDD is a recognized medical condition that can significantly impact a woman’s well-being. As highlighted in the Cureus article, "Understanding Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in Women: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment," hormonal fluctuations during menopause play a crucial role in the onset of HSDD. Shifts in estrogen and testosterone levels affect blood flow, sensitivity, and mood, all of which contribute to decreased libido. Yet, it’s essential to recognize that HSDD is not an inevitable consequence of menopause—it is a treatable condition. By raising awareness about the connection between menopause and HSDD, women can be empowered to seek treatment, explore lifestyle modifications, and access the support they need for optimal well-being and sexual health. Understanding Menopause Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average onset around 51. It is defined as the time when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. This period is marked by changes in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, leading to various physical and emotional symptoms.  Common symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, weight gain, and vaginal dryness. Each of these symptoms can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. However, one of the more subtle yet profound effects of menopause is HSDD, which often goes unrecognized and untreated. The Link Between Menopause and HSDD The hormonal fluctuations that occur during menopause can lead to a decreased libido for many women. Changes in estrogen levels can affect blood flow and sensitivity in the genital area, causing discomfort during sexual activity and leading to a decline in sexual desire. Additionally, psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and body image issues can further contribute to HSDD. It is essential to acknowledge that HSDD in women is not a natural part of aging or menopause. It is a medical condition that can be managed. Women experiencing a significant decrease in sexual desire should consult healthcare providers to explore options for treatment and support. Strategies for Managing Menopause Symptoms and HSDD Managing menopause and HSDD can feel challenging, but understanding your options can make a significant difference. With a mix of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and emotional support, women can effectively navigate these changes and improve their quality of life. Here are some steps you can take: 1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Seeking professional guidance is essential when managing menopause symptoms and HSDD. A healthcare provider can assess your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle to provide personalized treatment options. They may recommend blood tests to evaluate hormone levels or discuss medication options, ensuring your care plan is tailored to your unique needs. This approach can help alleviate symptoms and address underlying concerns. 2. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Hormone Replacement Therapy is a common treatment for managing menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. By supplementing the body with estrogen, progesterone, or both, HRT helps stabilize hormone levels and reduce discomfort. Healthcare providers often weigh the benefits against any potential risks, ensuring that this treatment aligns with your health profile. Many women experience significant improvements in their symptoms with HRT. 3. Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly enhance physical and emotional well-being during menopause. Regular physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or strength training, boosts energy levels and reduces mood swings. A diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports hormonal balance, while adequate hydration prevents fatigue and headaches. Stress management techniques like meditation, mindfulness, or deep-breathing exercises can further alleviate symptoms and promote emotional resilience. 4. Treatment Options for HSDD: For women experiencing Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), flibanserin like Addyi may be an option. This HSDD treatment can work for most women and works by targeting brain chemicals linked to sexual desire. A healthcare provider can help determine if this treatment is appropriate for you. 5. Counseling and Support Groups: Emotional health is just as important as physical well-being during menopause. Therapy can provide a safe space to discuss concerns, process emotions, and develop coping strategies for challenges related to menopause and HSDD. Support groups offer opportunities to connect with others experiencing similar issues, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Many women find it empowering to share their stories and learn from the experiences of others. 6. Sexual Health Education: Gaining knowledge about sexual health and how menopause affects intimacy can empower women to navigate these changes confidently. Understanding one’s body and discussing concerns with a partner or healthcare provider can foster a more fulfilling and open approach to intimacy. Resources like books, workshops, or online forums on sexual wellness can provide valuable insights and support a positive perspective on sexual health during menopause. Conclusion Menopause is a significant transition in a woman’s life that can present various challenges, including HSDD. However, it is important to recognize that effective management strategies can lead to improved quality of life and sexual health. By consulting with healthcare professionals, exploring treatment options, and adopting a proactive approach to lifestyle changes, women can navigate this phase with confidence and vitality. Empowerment through education and support will enable women to embrace this new chapter while managing menopause symptoms effectively.  

Jan 09, 2025

Understanding Cureus: An Introduction to the Journal


The Cureus Journal of Medical Science was started in 2009 in the basement of a building on Stanford’s School of Medicine campus. Originally named PeerEmed, Cureus is the brainchild of two accomplished academics who had grown disillusioned with what they perceived to be an overly political and opaque medical publishing process. With a goal of eliminating barriers to the publication and dissemination of medical science, Dr. John Adler, a neurosurgeon at Stanford, and Dr. Alexander Muacevic, a neurosurgeon at the University of Munich, Germany, joined forces to create a new way to publish peer-reviewed medical science. With a focus on equity, efficiency and transparency, Cureus was born. Cureus has long aimed to level the playing field by providing clinicians and researchers with equal opportunity and access to legitimate, peer-reviewed research regardless of their perceived status (country, institutional affiliation, and so on). Initially featuring a revenue model focused on online advertising, Cureus later introduced fees for some authors in the form of an editing fee for articles submitted in poor condition. With this change, the journal moved away from an advertising-dependent model while still offering free publication to roughly one-third of all authors. Authors are provided an opportunity to publish original studies, case reports, technical reports and editorials for free and if their articles fall short of this standard, the required editing fees vary according to the amount of editorial work needed and average $370 an article–still an order of magnitude less than typical article processing charges (APCs). Our editing fee is required for review articles as the editing work is more involved and exceeds that of other article types. The ability to provide authors an opportunity for free publication remains paramount as it is consistent with our emphasis on equity and access for authors around the world. The bedrock of this philosophy is our approach to publication standards. While the vast majority of academic journals only publish articles they deem novel or impactful, Cureus takes a different approach. Credible and legitimate science is the standard for publication, assessed by objective, specialist peer reviewers and editors, thereby removing the subjectivity (and, we would argue, inherent unfairness) of anonymous editors determining the so-called importance of articles. This innovative approach has spurred Cureus to incredible heights with some of the fastest growth in the entire academic publishing industry, from a modest total of 86 articles published in 2014 to over 19,000 articles in 2023. By offering equitable, fair and no or low-cost publishing, Cureus has amassed a large audience of devoted authors and, in turn, an equally large pool of ready and willing peer reviewers. All articles require at least two completed peer reviews from reviewers vetted and invited by the journal. Peer reviewers suggested by the authors or invited by channel admins or editors will assist in strengthening the article by providing valuable additional feedback, but these reviews do not count towards the minimum requirement to satisfy peer review. In a unique twist on traditional peer review deadlines, reviewers are pitted against one another in a race to review articles as we’ve found that deadlines just create artificial delays. And lest you think we will accept any peer review regardless of content, all peer reviews are reviewed themselves, and those lacking in critical feedback and thoroughness are summarily rejected. The result is a median turnaround time of just 26 days from submission to publication. Cureus was created to disrupt the medical publishing industry, and judging by the journal’s incredible growth, it’s fair to say we are doing just that. With multiple revenue streams including editing fees, online advertising, sponsored publishing competitions and academic channel subscriptions, Cureus doesn’t rely on often unaffordable APCs, thereby ensuring that all authors, regardless of socioeconomic status, have the opportunity to publish. Academic channels deserve special mention as the journal’s portfolio of channels has grown to include over 80 university and hospital departments, medical schools, and medical societies. Broadly speaking, channels are a branded section of the journal devoted to publishing, highlighting and promoting the scholarly output of channel organizations and their members. Channel administrators (“Channel Admins”) and editors (“Deputy Editors”) take an active role in attracting and reviewing initial submissions and ensuring that journal guidelines are met and post-review revisions are made. Cureus journal editors will still review all submissions and requests for publication, appoint peer-reviewers, determine if authors have applied necessary changes, and remain the final authority on whether to publish or reject each and every channel article. It’s important to note that channels are not independent journals and the ultimate decision on whether to publish these articles resides not with the channel, but with the journal’s editors, who are empowered to act independently. We’d also like to highlight a relatively new addition to the journal, Cureus Collections. Collections feature guest editors vetted and approved by the journal. These guest editors determine whether articles already approved by Cureus journal editors are a good fit for inclusion in their collection. Approved articles will appear within the collection, while articles rejected by the Collection guest editors will still be published, just not in the designated collection. In accordance with our focus on equitable publishing, all articles submitted to Cureus, whether via a channel, competition, collection or none of the above, are subject to the same acceptance and publication criteria and standards. Speed of consideration, peer review and final editorial review and copy editing does not change due to the type of submission. As 2024 draws to a close, Cureus will continue to challenge the established norms of academic publishing by focusing on equitable and efficient publication of credible and legitimate research and access for all, no matter their status. The journal’s growth is a testament to the need for this approach and we do not take it for granted. On behalf of the editors and staff of the Cureus Journal of Medical Science, we thank you for entrusting us with publishing your scholarly and clinical work.

Oct 31, 2024

Peptide Therapy


There are many potential benefits of peptide therapy in different medical fields. This Cureus article explores the expression of antimicrobial peptides and cytokines in the human omentum following abdominal surgery, with the aim of understanding how these peptides can aid in the prevention of postoperative infections. The article below focuses on the effects of Mechano-Growth Factor (MGF) peptide, which has been shown to have favorable impacts on muscle growth, wound healing, cartilage repair, and brain development in animal studies. MGF peptide has also been shown to activate muscle stem cells and enhance heart health, among other benefits.  There is a growing interest in peptide therapy as a potential solution to various medical problems, from muscle loss to postoperative infections. Sponsored Content Peptide Research: an Overview Mechano-Growth Factor (MGF) peptide is a splice variant of insulin-like growth factor [i] that has been suggested to have cardiological effects, favorably influencing muscle growth, wound healing, cartilage repair, and brain development in animal studies. MGF C-terminal has been speculated to enhance muscle healing after damage and hasten recovery. Moreover, data is suggesting it may help shield tissues from the mechanical stressors incurred during training and physical activity. Do you have a Ph.D. or MD and need to purchase MGF peptides for your research? You can find high-quality, affordable peptides online. What is the Mechano Growth Factor? In contrast to IGF1, the peptide known as Mechano growth factor (MGF) [ii] has a slightly modified sequence. Research suggests it may significantly impact growth and development. Animal studies purport that MGF peptide may promote tissue repair and development by activating muscle stem cells and increasing protein synthesis for tissue growth. Researchers are now exploring this peptide as a potential adjuvant for disorders that cause muscle loss and wasting in animals. Animal studies support that MGF peptide may promote tissue repair and development by activating muscle stem cells and increasing protein synthesis for tissue growth. Researchers are now exploring this peptide as a potential therapy for disorders that cause muscle loss and wasting in animals. MGF Peptide: Mechanism of Action According to research, IGF and muscle growth factor (MGF) seem to work together to cause hypertrophy and speed up the healing process after muscle injury. Muscle satellite cells, also known as stem cells, are activated with their help, per experimental study results. [v] Investigations purport the IGF-1Eb isoform, as it's more often known, may protect neurons, mitigate the atrophying effects of insulin, and speed up the healing of damaged muscle tissue in animals. Studies in rats have asserted the efficacy of this peptide. After muscular damage, high levels of MGF were found in the rats' muscles, which have been hypothesized to have promoted skeletal muscle cell development. Research on MGF for disorders that cause muscle wasting or tissue damage is limited, but early results are encouraging. MGF Peptide Properties According to the scientific community's findings, MGF peptides have a wide range of applications. In a nutshell, here's what it can do, according to animal studies: Encourage the growth of new muscle by stimulating stem cells Facilitate healing, repair, and cell division Facilitate the reduction of inflammation Maximize workouts Improve mental well-being and growth Enhance heart health Muscle Growth Factor's Effects Recent studies have shown that MGF (Mechanical growth factor) may stimulate satellite cells in the body, leading to increased hypertrophy, larger muscles, and even muscle regeneration. According to animal studies, MGF administered to mice for three weeks resulted in a 25% increase in muscle growth. Researchers think this peptide has the potential to double the health benefits of exercise and cure muscle-wasting disorders. An animal's basal metabolic rate and the pace at which it burns calories at rest benefit from muscle gain. Thus the animal may see more than simply an aesthetic advantage from exercising. Animal studies have demonstrated that increased lean body mass helps alleviate various diseases and health problems linked to obesity. Transplantation of myogenic precursor cells enhances dystrophin expression, which may explain why MGF therapy is effective in the context of some muscle-wasting illnesses like Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). As a result, the negative consequences of these states are mitigated. Despite the treatment's encouraging name, post-transplant survival statistics are dismal. Animal studies suggest that C-terminal peptide may improve transplant outcomes by increasing the number of myogenic precursor cells that survive the procedure. MGF Peptide and Injuries Injuries, inflammatory diseases like arthritis, and overuse of joints may all lead to cartilage breakdown. Experts agree that poor blood flow and a lack of stem cells prevent cartilage from regenerating properly. Yet, research on MGF peptides in animals suggested that they might assist in overcoming many of the obstacles to cartilage regeneration. Research indicates that C-terminal [iii] MGF might help chondrocytes (cells that promote cartilage health and repair) endure exposure to noxious stimuli, including damage and physical stress. By increasing cell survival, MGF supplementation has been theorized to aid in protecting and repairing cartilage when mechanical stress is applied, as per studies. Rodent studies indicated that MGF peptide might stop disc degeneration by stopping cell apoptosis. [iv]  Cardiological Consequences Data from animal trials of acute myocardial infarction in sheep suggests that MGF peptide may prevent heart muscle damage caused by ischemia. Researchers also speculated that cardiomyocyte damage seemed reduced by 35% when MGF peptide was presented. MGF Peptide and the Brain In 2010, scientists asserted that MGF peptide was present in the brains of rats, suggesting the peptide's possible neuroprotective properties. Research in mice further indicates that MGF protein is expressed in the context of brain hypoxia and that it may protect neurons. Studies purport that MGF peptide may relieve the increasing muscular weakness seen in Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) and slow down the underlying cause of the illness, the degeneration of motor neurons. Researchers have ascertained that mechano-growth factor peptides may protect neurons from disease progression more effectively than any other isoform. It has also been hypothesized to aid in recovering brain tissue damaged by ischemia. Scientists have high hopes that MGF peptide, with further study, may prove to be adjuvant and may save motor neurons from dying. References [i] Philippou A, Papageorgiou E, Bogdanis G, Halapas A, Sourla A, Maridaki M, Pissimissis N, Koutsilieris M. Expression of IGF-1 isoforms after exercise-induced muscle damage in humans: characterization of the MGF E peptide actions in vitro. In Vivo. 2009 Jul-Aug;23(4):567-75. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19567392/ [ii] Moriggl, R, V Gouilleux-Gruart, R Jähne, S Berchtold, C Gartmicen, X Liu, L Hennighausen, A Sotiropoulos, B Groner, and F Gouilleux. “Deletion of the Carboxyl-Terminal Transactivation Domain of MGF-Stat5 Results in Sustained DNA Binding and a Dominant Negative Phenotype.” Molecular and Cellular Biology 16, no. 10 (October 1996): 5691–5700. doi:10.1128/mcb.16.10.5691. [iii] Esposito, Simone, Koen Deventer, and Peter Van Eenoo. “Characterization and Identification of a C-Terminal Amidated Mechano Growth Factor (MGF) Analogue in Black Market Products.” Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry 26, no. 6 (February 10, 2012): 686–692. doi:10.1002/rcm.6144. [iv] Liu X, Zeng Z, Zhao L, Chen P, Xiao W. Impaired Skeletal Muscle Regeneration Induced by Macrophage Depletion Could Be Partly Ameliorated by MGF Injection. Front Physiol. 2019 May 17;10:601. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31164836/ [v] Mills P, Dominique JC, Lafrenière JF, Bouchentouf M, Tremblay JP. A synthetic mechano growth factor E Peptide enhances myogenic precursor cell transplantation success. Am J Transplant. 2007 Oct;7(10):2247-59. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17845560/ Editor's Note: This blog post was sponsored by Core Peptides LLC.

Aug 30, 2024

Call for Submissions: Highlight Medical Pioneers


The Cureus Journal of Medical Science is thrilled to announce an inspiring call for submissions. As part of our dedication to celebrating the rich history and profound impact of medical professionals, we invite you to contribute biographies or historical vignettes of significant figures in the medical field, particularly those who have mentored generations of physicians. Themes and Topics: We are looking for submissions that not only narrate the lives and achievements of medical pioneers but also the process by which such innovation happened, ultimately highlighting their lasting contribution to human health. Your work will contribute to a collection that honors the legacy of medical heroes. Submission Details & Guidelines: Be sure to choose a person who is a prominent figure in any medical science specialty. It may be a benefit if you have been mentored by or know this figure personally so you can include direct quotes and insights into your review article. Deadline: August 16, 2024 Please review our detailed author guidelines to ensure your submission meets all requirements.  How to Submit: Visit our submissions page. Be sure to use the keyword "Historical Vignette" to indicate your participation in this call. All submissions must be Review Articles. We will NOT accept editorials, technical reports, original articles, or case reports for this call for articles. ​​​​​​​ *Please note that all submissions will be required to pay our Preferred Editing fee due to our conditions that apply to Review Articles.

Aug 05, 2024