Browse publications by year: 2025

Quorum quenching nanoparticles against wound pathogens - A scoping review

Jayasree A, Rajeshkumar S

Med J Malaysia, 2025 Jan;80(Suppl 1):69-76.
PMID: 39773946

INTRODUCTION: Quorum sensing (QS) enables bacteria to coordinate colony-wide activities, including those associated with infections. Quorum quenching (QQ) inhibits QS and is a promising method for controlling bacterial infections. Several In vitro experiments have been conducted to identify nanoparticles (NPs) as potential quorum quenching inhibitors. This review examines the potential of nanoparticles for quorum quenching, focusing on the QS-regulated pathogenicity of wound pathogens.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational studies were conducted to explore the capacity of nanoparticles to quorum quench wound pathogens.
RESULTS: A review of observational studies indicated that nanoparticles exhibit significant quorum-quenching capabilities against wound pathogens. Numerous nanoparticles, including silver, gold, and zinc oxide, have been demonstrated to inhibit QS-regulated activities, thereby reducing bacterial virulence and biofilm formation. These results suggest that nanoparticles could serve as potent agents for mitigating bacterial infections and enhancing wound healing.
CONCLUSION: Nanoparticles show considerable potential as quorum-quenching agents, effectively decreasing bacterial virulence and biofilm formation in wound pathogens. These results indicate promising applications of nanoparticles in managing bacterial infections and improving wound healing.

MeSH terms: Bacterial Infections/drug therapy; Bacterial Infections/microbiology; Humans; Wound Healing/drug effects; Wound Infection/drug therapy; Wound Infection/microbiology; Biofilms/drug effects; Nanoparticles*
The rare cases of pneumatic colorectal perforation: A cautionary tale of compressed air misuse

Govindarajan MK, Durai B, Sundar VS, Uppupettai Ganeshbabu MB, Chiramel S

Med J Malaysia, 2025 Jan;80(Suppl 1):77-79.
PMID: 39773947

Barotrauma is a medical condition caused by sudden pressure changes in the body causing damage to multiple parts of the body. However, it is an infrequent occurrence when it comes to Colo-rectal perforation, wherein the trauma occurs due to the insufflation of compressed air through the anus. Several factors influence the outcome of a patient with colonic perforation due to barotrauma such as the severity of the injury, hemodynamic status of the patient, the patient's general health and well-being, the time taken for active medical/ surgical intervention since the injury, aggressive intravenous antibiotics administration to prevent sepsis, post-operative complications like surgical site infection, post-op ileus, anastomotic leak, etc. Overall, the patient's prognosis largely depends on early diagnosis, effective initial resuscitation, timely surgical intervention, and intensive post-operative care for a favorable outcome. Recently, we came across 2 cases of extensive pneumoperitoneum with Colo-rectal perforation as a result of the forceful insufflation of compressed air through the anus. Prompt medical intervention was necessary to prevent any further complications and they underwent surgical repair of the colorectal perforation.

MeSH terms: Barotrauma/etiology; Colon/injuries; Colon/surgery; Humans; Rectum/injuries; Rectum/surgery
A rare case of pigmented seborrhoeic keratosis of scalp

Arosish D

Med J Malaysia, 2025 Jan;80(Suppl 1):80-83.
PMID: 39773948

Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a prevalent hyperkeratotic dermatological condition characterized by benign proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes, typically occurring in the middle to advanced stages of life. While the trunk is the primary site for lesions, they can also manifest on the extremities, face, and scalp. Although SK is typically benign, there can be morphological overlap with malignant skin lesions, necessitating meticulous differentiation for an accurate diagnosis. This case report describes a 63-year-old male presenting with scalp swelling that was, initially suspected to be malignant. However, histopathological examination revealed pigmented seborrheic keratosis, prompting the need for a comprehensive management approach. Surgical excision with a rotational flap cover was performed successfully, highlighting the importance of precise diagnosis and management in addressing cutaneous lesions. The exact etiology of SK remains elusive, with potential genetic associations implicated in its pathogenesis. Although treatment may not always be necessary, various modalities are available for lesion removal or symptom management, with surgical intervention reserved for cases exhibiting signs of malignancy. Clinicians should be aware of the atypical presentations of SK and, emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists, pathologists, and surgeons for optimal outcomes.

MeSH terms: Humans; Male; Middle Aged
Rudimentary horn pregnancy presenting with imminent uterine rupture

Kaur J, Ramli R, Abd Kadir NJ

BMJ Case Rep, 2025 Jan 07;18(1).
PMID: 39773965 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2024-264044
Fulltext Author Correction: Mannose-binding lectin gene sequence data in Kelantan population

Zahidin MA, Mohd Noor NH, Johan MF, Abdullah AD, Zulkafli Z, Edinur HA

Sci Data, 2025 Jan 07;12(1):28.
PMID: 39774005 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-024-04334-5
Fulltext High-coverage whole-genome sequencing of a Jakun individual from the "Orang Asli" Proto-Malay subtribe from Peninsular Malaysia

Yap WS, Cengnata A, Saw WY, Abdul Rahman T, Teo YY, Lim RL, et al.

Hum Genome Var, 2025 Jan 08;12(1):4.
PMID: 39774017 DOI: 10.1038/s41439-024-00308-6

Jakun, a Proto-Malay subtribe from Peninsular Malaysia, is believed to have inhabited the Malay Archipelago during the period of agricultural expansion approximately 4 thousand years ago (kya). However, their genetic structure and population history remain inconclusive. In this study, we report the genome structure of a Jakun female, based on whole-genome sequencing, which yielded an average coverage of 35.97-fold. We identified approximately 3.6 million single-nucleotide variations (SNVs) and 517,784 small insertions/deletions (indels). Of these, 39,916 SNVs were novel (referencing dbSNP151), and 10,167 were nonsynonymous (nsSNVs), spanning 5674 genes. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that the Jakun genome sequence closely clustered with the genomes of the Cambodians (CAM) and the Metropolitan Malays from Singapore (SG_MAS). The ADMIXTURE analysis further revealed potential admixture from the EA and North Borneo populations, as corroborated by the results from the F3, F4, and TreeMix analyses. Mitochondrial DNA analysis revealed that the Jakun genome carried the N21a haplogroup (estimated to have occurred ~19 kya), which is commonly found among Malays from Malaysia and Indonesia. From the whole-genome sequence data, we identified 825 damaging and deleterious nonsynonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNVs) affecting 720 genes. Some of these variants are associated with age-related macular degeneration, atrial fibrillation, and HDL cholesterol level. Additionally, we located a total of 3310 variants on 32 core adsorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) genes. Of these, 193 variants are listed in PharmGKB, and 21 are nsSNVs. In summary, the genetic structure identified in the Jakun individual could enhance the mapping of genetic variants for disease-based population studies and further our understanding of the human migration history in Southeast Asia.
Fulltext Facial features of cartoon characters and their perceived attributes

Ashari A, Jo LW, Peh J, Oliver G

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1093.
PMID: 39774020 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-82677-0

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between skeletal antero-posterior profile of popular family cartoon characters and their perceived personal characteristics. The Internet Movie DataBase (IMDB) was used to identify popular animated family movies released since 2000. Cartoon characters were identified, and classified based on their gender (male/female), skeletal profile (Class I, II or III) and character assessment (protagonist/antagonist). Descriptive statistical analysis was carried out. Chi Square analysis was used to assess the differences (p-value) between gender and character assessment against the skeletal profile. Fifty popular animated family movies were identified. Within these 88 humanoid cartoon characters were identified made up of 32 male protagonists, 27 female protagonists, 22 male antagonists and 7 female antagonists. 40, 30, 21 were assessed as having a Class I, II and III skeletal profiles respectively. Statistically significant differences were observed in both FPFA and MPFP values for Class III characters (P = 0.009 and P = 0.006, respectively). However, no significant variations were noted when comparing the remaining groups. Female antagonists and male protagonists were most likely to be portrayed with a Class III skeletal pattern when compared to female protagonists and male antagonists respectively.

MeSH terms: Cartoons as Topic; Female; Humans; Male; Motion Pictures as Topic
The authors reply

Wong JJM, Sultana R, Gan CS, Lee JH

Crit Care Med, 2025 Jan 01;53(1):e233-e234.
PMID: 39774227 DOI: 10.1097/CCM.0000000000006482
Fulltext Health risks evaluation of mycotoxins in plant-based supplements marketed in Malaysia

Abdullah R, Kamarozaman NS, Ab Dullah SS, Aziz MY, Aziza HBA

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1244.
PMID: 39774309 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-85280-z

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi, pose significant health risks when present in plant-based supplements (PBS), necessitating thorough risk assessment to ensure consumer safety. This study evaluates the health risks associated with mycotoxins, specifically aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2) and ochratoxin A (OTA), in PBS sold in Malaysia. Contamination levels of AFB1, AFB2, and OTA were quantified in 14 PBS samples using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. All samples tested positive for AFB2, while 28.57% and 42.86% tested positive for AFB1 and OTA, respectively with some levels exceeding the regulatory limits set by the Malaysian Food Act 1983 and European regulations. The estimated daily intake of these mycotoxins was calculated based on the recommended daily intake of each supplement. To assess risk, Margin of Exposure (MOE) values were determined, showing that all AFB2-positive samples had MOE values below the critical threshold of 10,000, indicating an urgent need for risk management. A quantitative cancer risk assessment also estimated the percentage of hepatocellular carcinoma and kidney cancer attributable to mycotoxin exposure. The findings emphasize the significant public health risks posed by mycotoxins, particularly in samples B2 and B10, where all three mycotoxins studied were present at concerning levels. This study highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations and better monitoring of mycotoxin levels in PBS to protect consumer's health.

MeSH terms: Aflatoxins/analysis; Humans; Malaysia; Ochratoxins/analysis; Risk Assessment
Fulltext Pediatric Mycosis Fungoides Mimicking Benign Dermatoses: A Report of a Rare Case

Rosli S, Abd Halim H, Md-Yasin M, Abu Bakar NA

Am J Case Rep, 2025 Jan 07;26:e945897.
PMID: 39774580 DOI: 10.12659/AJCR.945897

BACKGROUND Primary cutaneous lymphomas (PCL) are a multifaceted spectrum of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) and cutaneous B cell lymphomas (CBCL). Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a rare subset of CTCL that primarily affects adults, and its occurrence in children is exceedingly rare. Most pediatric MF manifests as hypopigmented patches resembling other benign dermatoses, causing diagnostic challenges. This report outlines a case of pediatric MF in a 7-year-old Malaysian boy. CASE REPORT A 7-year-old boy exhibited progressing skin lesions characterized initially by erythematous, papular rashes over the face and upper limbs, then to the whole body, becoming hypopigmented, with pruritus and scaling for 1 year. Multiple clinics treated him for eczema and pityriasis alba but he responded poorly to courses of various topical steroids and emollient treatment. Due to the refractory nature of the lesions, he was subsequently referred to a dermatology clinic, where 2 skin biopsies were performed. The first biopsy revealed epidermotropism of atypical lymphocytes, consistent with MF. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positive CD3+ expression with slightly reduced CD4+, CD7+, and CD8+ expression, and normal CD2+ and CD5+ expression at the epidermis level. Nevertheless, due to the rarity of MF in children, a second biopsy was performed, validating the diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric MF is a rare and challenging diagnosis. This case report highlights the importance of close monitoring of unresolved hypopigmented lesions and increased vigilance on lesions not responding to standard treatment. Timely diagnosis with support of skin biopsy is crucial to avoid potentially serious disease progression and helps provide appropriate management leading to improved outcomes.

MeSH terms: Child; Diagnosis, Differential; Humans; Male; Skin Diseases/diagnosis
Fulltext Vertical wind profile distribution within canopy layer based on representative geometry model using wind tunnel experiment

Zaki SA, H'ng YM, Mohammad AF, Ardila-Rey JA, Alam N, Ahmad MI

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1117.
PMID: 39774618 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-83400-9

This study examined the mean and turbulent wind speed distribution within the canopy height of a tropical urban campus based on a representative geometry model via wind tunnel experiments. The vertical wind profiles were analysed around two high-rise buildings, Menara Razak (MR) and Residensi Tower (RT) at both wind directions (22.5° and 202.5°). To examine the influence of high-rise buildings on strong wind, the collected data of mean wind speed (u), root mean square (urms), and skewness (SK) were analysed. Effects of the wind direction, building layout or arrangement and building geometry under the canopy height were also examined. The results show that the building layout influenced the wind distribution within the target site, and the approaching wind flow direction also influenced the wind flow interaction with the building. The height of the target building (H) influenced the distance traveled by the vortices in the wake flow. For the MR and RT cases, the vortices could be affected up to a minimum distance of H and 1.5H, respectively. The study demonstrates that the building layout significantly influences the distribution of wind speeds within the canopy height of a tropical urban campus.
Fulltext Computational study on water based hybrid photovoltaic systems with different absorber configurations

Satpute J, Ghongade G, Petrů J, Campli S, Yadav S, Sonawane P, et al.

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1226.
PMID: 39774650 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-82690-3

The current study assesses several water-based PVT system thermal absorber configurations. The thermal absorber in PVT system plays a vital role in efficiency evaluation as it lowers PV temperature and collects heat energy. The current study aims to discover and analyze advanced thermal absorber design by comparing well-received spiral circular absorbers and non-cooled PV with proposed semi-circular thermal absorbers with varying flow configurations. The proposed thermal absorber maintains surface contact with PV panels and improves heat transfer thereby yielding better thermal and electrical efficiency. Simulated PVT systems have a constant water flow rate and solar radiation. The CFD-FLUENT software was preferred to evaluate the PVT system in steady-state conditions for the investigation. Under constant ambient and inlet water temperatures of 299 K, the PV temperatures at the surface, water discharge temperature, and pressure drop were measured. It was discovered that a thermal absorber could effectively lower PV surface temperature by cooling. A zigzag thermal absorber was the most efficient since it produced the highest water outlet temperature and lowest PV surface temperature while also slightly raising the pressure drop. In comparison with a non-cooled PV system, a zigzag thermal absorber PVT system yields 11.97% more electrical efficiency, with an addition of 76.75% thermal efficiency. It was also noticed that a conventional spiral circular PVT system provides 13.5% electrical efficiency and 54.8% thermal efficiency while an electrical efficiency of 13.61% and thermal efficiency is 76.75% was obtained from a zigzag thermal absorber PVT system. The zigzag thermal absorber PVT system had a high initial investment of INR 38809.00. It showed a simple payback of 4.63 years, a 28% return on investment with a promising 2.1 Debt Service Coverage Ratio. It is advisable to consider incorporating zigzag semi-circular PVT in the prospective improvements of the PVT system.
Fulltext Insights into the photocatalytic removal of malachite green organic pollutant by highly efficient hard responsive Ba1 - xCoxDyyFe12-yO19 catalysts

Himanshi, Lal B, Verma A, Suman, Ahmed J, Singh A, et al.

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1225.
PMID: 39774655 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-84251-0

The widespread discharge of organic dyes into the wastewater from various industrial processes has develop a major environmental apprehension in the modern world. To tackle such environmental issues, we are synthesizing a novel catalyst of composition, Ba1 - xCoxDyyFe12-yO19 (x = y = 0.02-0.06) using sol-gel auto-combustion (SGAC) for the photocatalytic eradication of malachite green dye (MGD). The fabricated sample show single-phase hexagonal structure. The hexagonal-shaped grains are seen in the field emission spectroscopy (FESEM) visuals of prepared hexaferrites. The oxidation states of every element present in the developed specimens are investigated using the X-ray photoelectron spectrophotometer scrutinized. The specific surface area (SSA) of the HF1 sample is 3.523 m2/g, whereas the band gap values of co-doped barium hexaferrites are found within the range of 1.61 to 1.75 eV. The magnetic analysis of developed hexaferrites indicates that increasing the concentration of Dy and Co, raised in the saturation magnetization and declines in coercivity. The conducted photocatalytic evaluations reveal that the removal efficiencies of 89.85%, 91.12%, and 94.36% are obtained for the prepared HF1, HF2, and HF3 hexaferrites after 90 min of natural irradiation. Moreover, the capability for the reusability of the synthesized hexaferrites is assessed over a series of five consecutive experimental cycles. As a result, this research delves at potential applications of co-doped BaFe12O19 hexaferrites in the photocatalytic eradication of MGD for environmental applications.
Fulltext Tariffs, transportation, and profits in cross-border e-commerce: A dual-channel supply chain decision-making strategy

Guo Y, Wang X, Yang Z, Chen K, Weng W

PLoS One, 2025;20(1):e0309535.
PMID: 39774787 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309535

The development of cross-border e-commerce platform promotes the new channel model between domestic and international. How to determine the dual-channel pricing decision of manufacturers and retailers under the condition of tariff and transportation heterogeneity has become an important and realistic problem. Based on the perspective of cross-border e-commerce dual-channel supply chain, this paper considers the impact of import tariff, transport heterogeneity and export tax rebate, compares and analyzes the performance difference between decentralized decision-making and centralized decision-making, and analyzes the impact of import tariff, export tax rebate and transport heterogeneity on cross-border e-commerce dual-channel pricing, demand and profit. The results show that the tariff is positively correlated with the manufacturer's direct selling price and the retailer's retail price, while the tariff is negatively correlated with the wholesale price, the demand and profit of direct selling channel and the retail channel. Export tax rebate rate is positively correlated with manufacturers' demand and profit and retailers' demand and profit, and negatively correlated with manufacturers' wholesale price, direct selling price and retail price. The increase of unit freight in direct channel is unfavorable to manufacturers and beneficial to retailers; The increase in unit freight rates in retail channels is bad for both manufacturers and retailers. Centralized decision-making is beneficial to supply chain demand and profits, and can improve the overall performance of the supply chain.

MeSH terms: Decision Making*; Taxes
Fulltext Author Correction: Optimal power generation of proton exchange membrane fuel cell using ANFIS based MPPT algorithm

S D, C B, T NP, B PK, S S

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1123.
PMID: 39774963 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-83983-3
Fulltext Enhancing in search of Milankovitch cycles from stratigraphic record using convex optimization algorithm

Alam S, Hadian MSD, Hamdani AH, Sulaiman N

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1099.
PMID: 39775130 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-82720-0

Accurately identifying Milankovitch cycles has been a significant challenge in cyclostratigraphic studies, as it is essential for improving geochronology. This manuscript focuses on developing a method that distinguishes Milankovitch cycles from sedimentary noise to enhance stratigraphic precision. Despite their often-conspicuous magnitude, these periodicities frequently intertwine with noise, posing a challenge for conventional spectral analysis. Therefore, to address this issue, we have developed an algorithm that enhances the resolution of the Milankovitch signal by employing convex optimization in spectral analysis. To evaluate the effectiveness of this new algorithm, we applied it to four distinct types of local stratigraphy where the Milankovitch signal has been confirmed. These include the stratigraphic sections in the middle Miocene molluscan beds of Java and the Mahakam Delta, Pleistocene sediments of Hominin Flores, and the Towuti Lake in Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. Our findings demonstrate the preservation of all targeted signals, with a confidence level surpassing 99%. By setting the significance level to 1%, we can reject the null hypothesis, which assumes noise or the absence of a Milankovitch signal in the stratigraphic data being tested. The absence of deviations from the identified periodicities further strengthens the Milankovitch signal, underscoring the robustness of our algorithm. However, we acknowledge that achieving optimal results still hinges on the accurate selection of the initial parameters z and λ.
Fulltext Investigation of electrochromic performances of multicolor V2O5 devices fabricated at low processing temperature

Tan MY, Thien GSH, Tan KB, Murthy HCA, Chan KY

Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 07;15(1):1184.
PMID: 39775184 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-85014-7

In recent decades, poorly insulated windows have increased the energy consumption of heating and cooling systems, thus contributing to excessive carbon dioxide emissions and other related pollution issues. From this perspective, the electrochromic (EC) windows could be a tangible solution as the indoor conditions are highly controllable by these smart devices even at a low applied voltage. Literally, vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) is a renowned candidate for the EC application due to its multicolor appearance and substantial lithium insertion capacity. Despite the growing interest in V2O5 thin films, only limited literature study is available for V2O5 films specifically the annealing effects of these films at lower temperatures (
Fulltext Development and validation of a Malay version questionnaire for assessing risk perception of type 2 diabetes (RPDM)

Jane Ling MY, Ahmad N, Mohd Radi MF, Aizuddin AN

PLoS One, 2025;20(1):e0311834.
PMID: 39775213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311834

BACKGROUND: The burden of type 2 diabetes is increasing globally. Risk perception of type 2 diabetes plays an important role in motivating adoption of healthy lifestyle and preventive health interventions. To address the increasing burden of type 2 diabetes in Malaysia, a better understanding on its risk perception is needed as a guide for preventive interventions. This study was aimed at developing and validating a Malay-language questionnaire to assess the risk perception of type 2 diabetes (RPDM) among Malaysians.
METHODS: The questionnaire (RPDM) was developed based on the Health Belief Model and previous literature. A 59-item question pool was initially developed, reviewed by experts for content validity and pretested on five respondents. Different samples were used for pilot study (n = 100) and subsequent validation study (n = 158). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to evaluate construct validity and construct reliability of the questionnaire.
RESULTS: The EFA yielded five-factors model, including 48 items with good factor loadings of > 0.40. CFA was carried out using item parceling. The final model shows acceptable model fit and had sufficient convergent and discriminant validity. The value of construct reliability ranged between 0.76 and 0.90.
CONCLUSION: This newly developed and validated Malay-language RPDM questionnaire is valid and reliable for measuring the five constructs (perceived self-efficacy, perceived severity, perceived benefit, perceived susceptibility and perceived barrier) of risk perception of type 2 diabetes among Malaysians. This Malay-language questionnaire may contribute to a better understanding of risk perception of type 2 diabetes among Malaysians, as well as enhancement of diabetes prevention communication between healthcare providers and their clients.

MeSH terms: Adult; Aged; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Female; Humans; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Malaysia/epidemiology; Male; Middle Aged; Perception; Pilot Projects; Surveys and Questionnaires; Reproducibility of Results; Risk Assessment/methods
Fulltext The impact of achievement goals on college students' English performance-A moderated mediation model

Tan S, Samad AA, Ismail L

PLoS One, 2025;20(1):e0310817.
PMID: 39775225 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0310817

The study investigated the relationship between learning engagement and achievement goals, and English performance among college students. With the increasing popularity of online teaching methods, exploring how different teaching modes (online and classroom teaching) might influence students' learning outcomes is important. The researcher sought to understand how adopting different achievement goals such as mastery and performance-avoidance approaches could impact English performance and learning engagement. By examining this factor, the study aimed to provide insights into effective teaching strategies and interventions that could enhance students' academic success in English language learning. The survey included 953 college students assessed using the Achievement Goal Questionnaire and Learning Engagement Scale. Their IELTS English scores were also recorded to study the relationship between learning engagement and achievement goals, and English performance. Additionally, the researcher utilized statistical analysis tools such as SPSS and the PROCESS Marco programme to explore the moderated mediation model and to uncover the complex relationships among the variables in the study. The results revealed that adopting a mastery approach positively influenced English performance, while the performance-avoidance approach negatively influenced English performance. Additionally, learning engagement partially mediated the connection between the mastery approach, performance-avoidance approach, and English performance. Teaching mode influenced the initial phase of the mediating effect between the mastery approach and English performance. More importantly, compared to online teaching, classroom teaching with a focus on mastery approach had a stronger predictive effect on learning engagement. Lastly, there was a moderated mediating effect between English achievement and the mastery approach, whereas the performance-avoidance approach showed a simple mediating effect on English achievement. The findings from this research could potentially inform educators and policymakers on how to optimize teaching practices to promote student engagement and improve English language proficiency.

MeSH terms: Achievement; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Goals*; Humans; Language*; Learning; Male; Surveys and Questionnaires; Universities; Young Adult
Impacts of supplementation with milk proteins on inflammation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Mohammadi S, Ashtary-Larky D, Mehrbod M, Kouhi Sough N, Salehi Omran H, Dolatshahi S, et al.

Inflammopharmacology, 2025 Jan 07.
PMID: 39775243 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-024-01615-8

BACKGROUND: Impacts of milk proteins (MPs) on inflammation are uncertain. The current systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated the effects of whey protein (WP), casein protein (CP), or MP supplementation on serum levels of cytokines and adipokines in adults.
METHODS: A comprehensive search of various online databases was conducted to find appropriate clinical trials published until September 2024. A random-effect statistical model was implemented.
RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 53 RCTs. It was indicated that MP supplements had no substantial effects on serum values of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), adiponectin, and leptin. However, there were statistically significant decreases in serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) following supplementation with MP (weighted mean difference (WMD): - 0.25 pg/mL, 95% CI - 0.48, - 0.03; P = 0.026) in the intervention group compared with the control group.
CONCLUSION: This study revealed that MP supplementation may not have any considerable impacts on the levels of cytokines and adipokines.

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