Browse publications by year: 2025

  1. Yu JH, Zhang SR, Du Y, Deng DJ, Zhang YK, Li JL, et al.
    Food Chem, 2025 Mar 28;482:144110.
    PMID: 40184739 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2025.144110
    This study examines the antioxidant capacity of linusorb (LOs) and their interaction with phospholipids (PLs) in hot-pressed flaxseed oil (HO), which is valued for its enhanced oxidative stability in Northwest China. Utilizing antioxidant assays and molecular simulations, the research aims to: 1) Assess oxidation indices to identify optimal roasting conditions and monitor LOs during the oxidation of HO, triacylglycerol (TAG), and TAG + LOs; 2) Analyze the oxidation kinetics of crude LOs (cLOs) from cold-pressed oil (CO) and LOs (hLOs) from HO in the presence of PLs; and 3) Molecular dynamics simulations to explore the interactions between PLs and LOs. The findings indicate that HO exhibits superior oxidative stability due to a higher concentration of LOs and PLs, with altered the antioxidative behavior of LOs. Simulation suggests that PLs can bind to LOs, facilitating their migration to the water-oil interface and enhancing their antioxidant effects.
  2. Xu F, Soh KG, Chan YM, Soh KL, Bai XR, Deng NN, et al.
    Geriatr Nurs, 2025 Apr 03;63:123-130.
    PMID: 40184899 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2025.03.028
    The benefits of physical exercise are well-known, but there is limited research on its effects on the physical and mental health of elderly individuals with gait disorders. This review aims to evaluate the impact of physical exercise on these outcomes. A literature search was conducted, retrieving studies published from inception to November 2024 in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and SPORTDiscus. Fifteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the review. The results indicate that physical exercise improves both physical health (gait, balance, mobility, reduce fall rate) and mental health (Qality of life [QoL] cognitive function, anxiety levels, and Activities-Specific Balance Confidence [ABC]) in older adults with gait disorders. Of the 15 studies, 10 reported positive effects on both physical and mental outcomes, while the remaining five studies showed either no effect or a lack of positive results. The interventions evaluated included Tai Chi (TC), Tango, aerobic training (AT), resistance training (RT), combined training (CT), virtual reality (VR), resistance training plus standard pharmacological treatment (RTG + pharmacological treatment), high-speed treadmill training, brisk walking, and multimodal exercise program (MEP). Notably, there are six items of TC intervention. Most interventions lasted for 12 weeks with sessions conducted twice a week, each lasting between 30 and 60 minutes. Additionally, limited studies (one per indicator) assessed strength, functional gait assessment (FGA), and center of pressure (COP), indicating a need for more research in these areas. This review concludes that physical exercise is effective in improving physical and mental health outcomes in older adults with gait disorders, with TC emerging as the most commonly used and beneficial intervention.
  3. Suhaimi NS, Székely C, Cech G, Sellyei B, Borkhanuddin MH
    Parasitol Int, 2025 Apr 02;108:103073.
    PMID: 40185307 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2025.103073
    Genus Ceratomyxa comprises coelozoic parasites of mainly marine and brackish water fish. This study describes a new Ceratomyxa species, Ceratomyxa schwanefeldii n. sp. which parasitizes the gall bladder of Barbonymus schwanefeldii collected from Sungai Tong in Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia. The new species was described using morphological characteristics, and on nucleotide sequences of small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) and large subunit ribosomal DNA (LSU rDNA). Ceratomyxa schwanefeldii n. sp. exhibited vermiform shape plasmodia with slow undulatory motility, measuring 151.6 ± 86.0 (43.0-271.0) μm in length and 15.1 ± 4.8 (9.3-22.7) μm in width, with blunt poles at both ends. The mature spores were crescent-shaped, strongly arched in frontal view, with a sutural line between the two valves tapering to blunt ends. Formalin-fixed spores were 3.0 ± 0.4 (2.4-3.9) μm in length, 12.6 ± 1.2 (10.8-15.4) μm in thickness, with a concave posterior angle, 104.8° ± 10.2° (73.4-123.8). Two equal-sized spheroid polar capsules measured 1.5 ± 0.2 (1.2-1.8) μm in length and 1.3 ± 0.2 (0.9-1.7) μm in width. Phylogenetic analyses by Maximum likelihood and Bayesian Inference algorithms positioned C. schwanefeldii n. sp. as a sister species to Unicapsulocaudum mugilum and clustered within the clade of Amazonian freshwater Ceratomyxa species. The LSU rDNA phylogeny revealed that C. schwanefeldii n. sp. clusters within the marine Ceratomyxa clade and forms a sister relationship with C. leatherjacketi. This study represents the first description of a freshwater Ceratomyxa in Malaysia and the fourth recorded detection in the Asian region.
  4. Chin AHB, Muhsin SM
    J Med Ethics, 2025 Apr 04.
    PMID: 40185630 DOI: 10.1136/jme-2025-110883
    A survey study by Haining et al reported significantly higher percentages of Singaporeans approving of human cognitive enhancement via reprogenetic technologies, as compared with American respondents in a similar previous survey study conducted in the USA. Some caveats on human cognitive enhancement with reprogenetic technologies, such as polygenic embryo screening and germline gene editing, are thus discussed based on the local sociocultural context of Singapore. First, within a hypercompetitive shame-based Confucian society such as Singapore, the autonomy of the cognitively enhanced offspring would likely be curtailed by the heavy-handed 'tiger-parenting' approach of their parents, who, after investing so much money in enhancing their cognitive ability, would have 'heightened' expectations of their academic performance. Second, cognitive enhancement may not improve the personal happiness, sense of fulfilment and overall well-being of the offspring, particularly if their unique motivations and aspirations do not align with the idealised visions and expectations of their parents, and if they are unable to fulfil the unrealistic and unreasonable expectations imposed by their parents and broader society. Third, cognitive enhancement may not necessarily improve the future prospects and life success of the offspring if this further exacerbates an unbalanced job market with an oversupply of university graduates. Fourth, cognitive enhancement is anticipated to be very expensive and hence be afforded only by the affluent, thereby further aggravating existing socioeconomic disparities. Last, the high costs of such technologies could further accelerate demographic decline due to the heavy financial burden on prospective parents. Hence, Singapore must carefully consider these caveats before permitting such cognitive-enhancing technologies.
  5. Katoch G, Sharma G, Jain V, Rajiv A, Tham J, Singh A, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2025 Apr 05;15(1):11663.
    PMID: 40185775 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-91305-4
    The synthesis of lanthanum (La) substituted Zn (Mn0.6Zn0.2La0.2Fe2O4) and Fe (Mn0.6Zn0.4La0.2Fe1.8O4) was performed using sol-gel auto-combustion techniques to investigate the effects of lanthanum doping on the structural and magnetic properties of Mn-Zn nanoferrites. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the development of a single-phase spinel structure and a reduction in crystallite size (from 16 to 10.7 nm) with La substitution. Although saturation magnetization (Ms) decreased due to changes in cation distribution and magnetic interactions, La doping led to an increase in initial permeability. This enhancement was linked to changes in Ms and the magneto-crystalline anisotropy constant (K1). The permeability loss factor (tan δµ) remained low (around 10- 2) for the La-doped ferrites, indicating minimal energy loss at room temperature. These results suggest promising potential for advanced biomedical applications, in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The sol-gel auto-combustion technique provides a scalable and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing these materials, supporting SDG targets related to responsible consumption and production (SDG 12).
  6. Wu J, Abd Shukor SF, Hasna MF, Daud MN
    Sci Rep, 2025 Apr 04;15(1):11567.
    PMID: 40185970 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-96353-4
    Using the nominal group technique (NGT) and a structured questionnaire, this study investigates whether gender differences influence preferences for various attributes of Chinese freehand painting, a traditional Chinese painting technique, among retired Chinese individuals. First, the NGT was used to identify 17 attributes desired by the population. These attributes were then used to formulate the questionnaire, which allowed for the identification and prioritization of key characteristics through group discussion. The questionnaire was completed by 116 male and 117 female participants, enabling a comparative analysis of preferences between genders. The findings indicate that gender does not significantly affect preferences for most attributes of Chinese freehand painting. Specific characteristics, such as "the colour should not be too bright;" "relaxed, simple, and flexible brushwork;" and "natural scenery," showed no significant gender-based differences, suggesting a shared appreciation among male and female participants. Although minor variations were observed for certain attributes, these differences were not substantial enough to suggest that gender is a primary factor in shaping aesthetic preferences. This study concludes that retirees' preferences regarding Chinese freehand painting are not significantly influenced by gender. This study provides new insights into the art preferences of retired individuals, supporting the development of marketing strategies and art education programmes for older populations. By exploring retirees' perceptions of Chinese freehand painting, this study contributes to the promotion and cultural inheritance of this traditional art form. The findings highlight consistent patterns of appreciation across genders rather than significant gender-based differences.
    MeSH terms: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; China; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Sex Factors; Asian Continental Ancestry Group
  7. Xing F, Liu Y, Tian F, Hou X, Lian Q, Hu Y, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2025 Apr 04;15(1):11584.
    PMID: 40185978 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-96274-2
    This study examined bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its effects on the biological behavior of OSCC cells, along with potential underlying mechanisms. BMP2 expression in OSCC was analyzed using mRNA data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Genomics Expression Omnibus Database (GEO). SCC9 cells were transfected in vitro with small interfering RNA targeting BMP2 (si-BMP2), a negative control sequence (si-NC), BMP2 plasmid, or empty plasmid (vector). After transfection, Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, colony formation, scratch wound healing, Transwell, flow cytometry, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analyses were conducted to assess changes in SCC9 cell behavior in response to altered BMP2 expression and to explore relevant signaling pathways.BMP2 upregulation promoted SCC9 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion; inhibited apoptosis; and activated the Smad1/5 and p38 signaling pathways. Conversely, BMP2 downregulation inhibited SCC9 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion; promoted apoptosis; and suppressed the Smad1/5 and p38 pathways. BMP2 is highly expressed in OSCC and may drive its progression through the BMP/Smad and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, indicating potential prognostic value and promise as a therapeutic target for small-molecule OSCC treatments.
    MeSH terms: Cell Movement/genetics; Humans; Signal Transduction; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*; Apoptosis/genetics; Cell Line, Tumor; Cell Proliferation/genetics; Smad Proteins/metabolism
  8. Saveetha K, Somala CS, Anand T, Balamurugan D, Vasudevan V, Saravanan KM, et al.
    Mol Biotechnol, 2025 Apr 04.
    PMID: 40186063 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-025-01425-5
    Cyclic nutrient processes, soil health maintenance, and plant development are contingent upon soil microbiomes. The microbial makeup of the soil of Maruthupandiyar College, Thanjavur, is assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. QIIME2, in conjunction with the SILVA database, analyzed the sequencing data to examine microbial diversity and composition. The experimental results revealed a diverse array of bacteria in soil physicochemical properties. The alpha and beta diversity assessment revealed significant microbial community complexity and distribution patterns disparities. The research revealed bacterial groups associated with biological nitrogen fixing, suggesting their potential to enhance mung bean growth. The current study illustrates the significance of microbial interactions in soil for sustaining soil fertility and enhancing crop output. Research findings provide essential insights into improving the sustainability of tropical agriculture through intentional microbial management to create sustainable soil health systems.
  9. Miow YX, Mok WKH, Gan WY, Lim PY, Appannah G, Adznam SN'
    BMC Public Health, 2025 Apr 04;25(1):1279.
    PMID: 40186118 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-22414-y
    BACKGROUND: Adequate nutrition is crucial for optimal child growth and development, especially for children under five. Over the years, the linear programming (LP) approach has been used to develop food-based recommendations (FBRs) for children under five.

    OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aims to (i) summarize the use of LP in diet optimization to improve nutrient adequacy, (ii) evaluate nutrient requirements by using modelling techniques when the use of local foods is optimized, and (iii) identify and compare the problem nutrient(s).

    METHODS: This scoping review was performed by searching PubMed and Wiley databases from 2012 to 2025, and also screened the reference lists of included publications to identify potentially eligible articles. Forward and backward citation searches were also performed to supplement the structured searches in the databases.

    RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included after a systematic literature search. The objective functions and the final set of FBRs of the included studies were summarized. Moreover, the nutrient intakes in the optimized diets and the problem nutrients of the included studies were compared and discussed. When optimizing diets using the LP approach, most of the nutrient requirements can be achieved, except for iron and zinc and, in some studies, thiamine, niacin, folate, and calcium. Iron was identified as the problem nutrient in all studies involving infants aged 6 to 11 months old, followed by calcium and zinc. In children aged 12 to 23 months, iron and calcium were identified as the problem nutrients in almost all studies, followed by zinc and folate. In children aged 1 to 3 years, fat, calcium, iron, and zinc were recognized as the absolute problem nutrients, while fat, calcium, and zinc were the absolute problem nutrients for children aged 4 to 5 years. Findings on dietary inadequacy of nutrient intakes were remarkably consistent across studies conducted in different geographic and socioeconomic settings.

    CONCLUSIONS: Modeled diets involving local foods are inadequate to meet the requirements for certain micronutrients, particularly iron and zinc. Cost-effective strategies are required to improve the dietary adequacy of young children.

    MeSH terms: Child, Preschool; Humans; Infant; Nutritional Requirements; Programming, Linear*
  10. Arshad M, Nawaz R, Ahmad S, Irshad MA, Irfan A, Qayyum MMN, et al.
    BMC Plant Biol, 2025 Apr 04;25(1):428.
    PMID: 40186128 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-025-06433-w
    Maize (Zea mays L.) growth and yield are severely affected due to intraspecific competition and agroclimatic conditions when cultivated with high plant densities. Field trials comprising four daily thinning patterns (0, 0.5, 1.0, &1.5% till silking) carried out in three consecutive years (2019-2021) using RCBD experimental design consisting of three replicates. Growth variables, dry matter allocation and growth rates in maize were examined during five biweekly periods starting from the emergence (15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 days after emergence, DAE) till silking whereas yield parameters i.e., biological yield, economic yield, and sustainability yield index (SYI) were recorded. Biweekly increase in growth variables, dry matter partitioning and growth rates of maize differed significantly due to the influence of daily thinning computed for the periods from 31 to 45, 46 to 60 and 61 to 75 DAE but the same parameters didn't differ significantly during the first two biweekly periods (1-15 & 16-30 DAE). Increase in growth variables, dry matter distribution, absolute growth rate (AGR), yield and SYI was the greatest where maize was established with 1% daily thinning. This increase in growth and dry matter partition observed highly associated to economic yield and biological yield. Current research highlighted that 3, 4th, and 5th biweekly periods are the most critical stages and daily thinning of 1% is suggested for higher and sustainable economic and biological returns from high density broadcasted maize.
    MeSH terms: Seasons; Ecosystem*; Biomass
  11. Tantsis EM, Mohammad SS, Paget SP, Virella-Perez YI, Han VX, Hadi D, et al.
    Dev Med Child Neurol, 2025 Apr 05.
    PMID: 40186422 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.16323
    AIM: To optimize genetic testing in children with cerebral palsy (CP) by using clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) variables.

    METHOD: In this mixed methods study, we surveyed current approaches to genetic testing by Australian clinicians involved in the diagnosis of CP. Using an international expert panel we explored 78 variables, to determine which variables were thought to be supportive of monogenic CP. We tested the 78 variables in a retrospective cohort of 100 children with CP, of whom 21 had a genetic cause of CP.

    RESULTS: Forty-five clinicians replied to the survey of current practice, 91% agreed that genetic testing has a role in CP, although 47% thought that there was inadequate guidance on which patients to test. The expert panel reached 75% agreement for 30 out of 78 variables for genetic CP, and 14 out of 78 variables against a genetic cause of CP. Retrospective testing in 100 children with CP revealed dysmorphic features (odds ratio [OR] = 7.50; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.88-29.85) and intellectual disability (OR = 4.86; 95% CI 1.29-18.30) were more common in those with genetic CP, and MRI being compatible with the clinical picture was the feature least common in genetic CP (OR = 0.14; 95% CI 0.05-0.41).

    INTERPRETATION: Genetic testing has a role in determining CP aetiology; however, there is no consensus on who should be tested. We used mixed methodology and found that dysmorphic features, intellectual disability, and 'MRI not compatible with the clinical picture' are most supportive of a genetic cause of CP.

  12. Tan TH, Tong SC, Ooi EZH, Quek WP, Chan ES, Manja M, et al.
    J Sci Food Agric, 2025 Apr 05.
    PMID: 40186498 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.14269
    BACKGROUND: Recently, oleogel has been proposed as an excellent substitute for conventional vegetable oils for deep-frying applications. Waxes are the most used oleogelators and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The properties of oleogels prepared from different types of waxes vary in their physiochemical composition, which may affect their deep-frying performance.

    RESULTS: In this study, soybean oil-based oleogels prepared from four different types of waxes (i.e., beeswax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, and rice bran wax) were developed to evaluate their deep-frying performance of carbohydrate-based food (potato chips) for 20 frying cycles. Results showed that all oleogels retarded the oxidative compounds' (hydroperoxides, aldehydes, ketones) formation during deep-frying. Further, beeswax oleogel (BWO) showed superior stability (free fatty acid = 0.176%) towards hydrolysis compared to the other oleogels (free fatty acid = 0.344-0.427%). Similarly, the potato chips fried with BWO had the lowest total oxidation (TOTOX) value (252.15). The result revealed that the excellent frying stability of BWO could be attributed to its exceptional oil binding capacity and stronger gel network formation that reduces the entrainment of moisture during the cooling phase of intermittent frying.

    CONCLUSION: In short, BWO showed potential to be used as an alternative deep-frying medium with excellent oxidative stability, opening an alternative to the development of a zero trans-fat high stability frying medium. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

  13. Chan CYW, Mohamad SM, Tan HK, Chiu CK, Kwan MK
    Spine Deform, 2025 Apr 05.
    PMID: 40186824 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01080-5
    PURPOSE: To quantify the breast computed tomography (CT) parameters in IS patients. Patients' perceptions of their breast appearance before/after scoliosis surgery were also assessed with Breast-Q™ questionnaire.

    OUTCOME MEASURE: Concave/convex side breast volume difference (BVD), computed tomographic external breast appearance parameters (extraversion angle (EA), coverage angle (CA), axial breast height (ABH), nipple-to-sternum distance (NSD), thoracic rib cage parameter (inclination angle (IA)), and Breast Satisfaction and Psychosocial Well Being domains of Breast-Q Q™ questionnaires.

    METHODS: This was a prospective study of 50 IS patients recruited between June 2017 and December 2018 who had pre-operative CT scans available for review. Pre-operative radiological parameters as stated above were evaluated. Breast volume difference (BVD) was calculated using the formula: 100 * {(CC BV - CV BV)/[(CC BV + CV BV)/2]}. Breast-Q™ questionnaires were administered pre-operative and post-operatively. The percentage of patients who achieved the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was reported.

    RESULTS: Thirty-three patients (66%) had significant BVD with the concave side larger in 52.0% of patients. BVD had significant correlation with ABH, NSD, CA, and EA. There was no significant correlation between pre-operative Cobb angle with BVD and IA. There was also no significant correlation between Tanner stage and the radiological parameters. Breast satisfaction and psychosocial well-being domains improved after surgery and the satisfaction with breast domain minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was achieved in 83.7% of patients, while the psychosocial well-being domain reached the MCID in 75.5% of patients (p 

  14. Niloy NM, Shammi M, Tareq SM
    Water Environ Res, 2025 Apr;97(4):e70064.
    PMID: 40186851 DOI: 10.1002/wer.70064
    Bottled drinking water of numerous brands from different countries, including Bangladesh, Malaysia, Australia, India, Singapore, Norway, Japan, Vietnam, and Taiwan, were studied using three-dimensional fluorescence (excitation-emission matrix, EEM) spectroscopy and multivariate parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) model. Fluorescent-dissolved organic matter (DOM) components such as microbial processed tyrosine-, fulvic acid (M)-, and tryptophan-like had maximum intensity/concentration at 70.8%, 16.7%, and 12.5% bottled drinking water samples, respectively. The total intensity of all fluorescing DOM components was minimum and maximum in one of the brands from Australia and Vietnam, respectively. Unlike in Japan, the concentrations of DOM components in bottled drinking water were comparable to or higher than groundwater, freshwater, and marine water in Bangladesh, Malaysia, India, and Taiwan. The concentration of Escherichia coli was quantified from its significant correlation equation with the microbial-processed tryptophan-like component. Apart from 60% and 20% of bottled water samples from Malaysia and Bangladesh, the remaining samples of studied countries were medium to very high-risk because of E. coli signatures. The adverse health impacts from previously identified over-acceptable-limit mineral concentrations in bottled drinking water are discussed. DOM components at such concentrations in bottled drinking water also strengthened doubts about the efficiency of conventional water treatment techniques and biofilm control. Economic indicators of the studied countries affirmed that willingness and proper management knowledge are necessary to ensure safe bottled drinking water besides budget and labor wages. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Higher protein-like components intensity than humic-like affirmed microbial abundance Risks for E. coli availability was medium to very high in maximum samples Adverse health impacts for overlimit Pb, Al, and PO4 3- minerals in Bangladeshi brands Inefficiency of drinking water treatment techniques in DOM and biofilm control Importance of labor wage, willingness, and knowledge for drinking water treatment.
    MeSH terms: Bangladesh; Escherichia coli/isolation & purification; Fluorescence; Organic Chemicals*; Public Health
  15. Liu C, Wang L, Li J, Heděnec P, Xu Z, Tan B, et al.
    J Environ Manage, 2025 Apr 04;381:125220.
    PMID: 40186966 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125220
    Absorptive roots are crucial for nutrient uptake and water absorption in forest ecosystems, yet variations in root traits and the underlying drivers during stand succession remains poorly understood. Here, we use a space-for-time substitution method to investigate the morphological traits (i.e., root diameter, RD; specific root length, SRL; and root tissue density, RTD) and chemical traits (i.e., concentrations of carbon, C; nitrogen, N; phosphorus, P; potassium, K; calcium, Ca; magnesium, Mg and manganese, Mn) in the absorptive roots of Cryptomeria japonica across five chronosequences in subtropical China. Simultaneously, we evaluated soil parameters and tree relative growth rate (RGR) to determine their influence on root traits. The results showed that RD, N, K, and Ca concentrations exhibited hump-shaped patterns with stand development (peaking in mature stands), whereas SRL and RTD exhibited opposite trends. Additionally, P and Mg concentrations in the roots decreased with stand age, whereas Mn concentration increased. Two trade-off strategies of absorptive root traits were identified: the first strategy characterized by RD, RTD, and root nutrients (N, Ca and Mg), potentially indicates a trade-off between nutrient acquisition and conservation. The second strategy related to SRL and K concentration represents a trade-off between resource foraging efficiency and nutrient allocation. Soil factors had a greater influence on root trait variations than tree RGR. Specifically, soil pH negatively influenced RD and Mn concentration but positively affected RTD. Root N and Ca concentrations increased with soil water content, while K concentration rose with soil nitrate-N availability. Conversely, P and Mg concentrations decreased with increasing soil ammonium-N. These findings demonstrate that forest stand development shapes adaptive adjustments in absorptive root traits through soil-mediated trade-offs between resource acquisition and conservation, highlighting edaphic factors as key regulators of nutrient foraging strategies.
  16. Hsu CJ, Kuo IL, Hsi HC, Lam SS, Huang YP, Ting YC
    J Environ Manage, 2025 Apr 04;381:125197.
    PMID: 40186973 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125197
    Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a significant greenhouse gas that plays a pivotal role in driving global warming and climate change. Its primary sources stem from human activities, notably transportation, power generation, and industrial processes. Directly capturing CO2 emissions at their origins is widely recognized as a potent and efficient approach to reducing emissions. Biochar has emerged as a promising material for capturing CO2 owing to its stability, hydrophobic nature, ease of preparation, and economic advantages. Nevertheless, its ability to adsorb CO2 is constrained in environments with relatively low pressure (<1 bar). Consequently, modifying and refining biochar is a strategy to enhance its affinity for CO2. In this work, Leucaena leucocephala, a major invasive species in Asia, was selected as the biomass precursor, and a single synthesis process combining pyrolysis and ammonialization was employed to produce the ammonialized biochar (ABC). Among the synthesized biochars, ABC800 (produced at 800 °C) exhibits desirable surface properties with high surface area (SBET = 836.5 m2/g), microporosity (Smicro = 753.3 m2/g), and ultra-microporosity (Sultra-micro = 376.9 m2/g). In addition, ABC800 demonstrates superior CO2 adsorption capacity (4.06 mmol/g at 0 °C). Isothermal and kinetic results show that ABC800's CO2 adsorption follows the Langmuir-Freundlich and pseudo-second-order (PSO) equations, indicating both physical and chemical interactions. The correlation between adsorption performance, pore structure, and nitrogen content highlights the potential of ABC800 for CO2 capture, particularly at elevated temperatures. Overall, this work offers new insights into a potentially sustainable approach for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
  17. Noor RAM, Shah NSM, Zin AAM, Sulaiman WAW
    Tissue Cell, 2025 Mar 26;95:102887.
    PMID: 40187006 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2025.102887
    The role of mitochondria in regulating cells during the embryonic phase is crucial, yet their function in causing deformation to orbicularis oris muscle of cleft lip remains controversial. The study was performed to explore morphological abnormalities of orbicularis oris muscle and mitochondria in patients with cleft lip with or without palate. Seventeen cleft lip tissue samples were obtained from consented patients who underwent cleft lip repair. All tissue samples were processed according to the respective analyses: modified Gomori trichrome, cytochrome c-oxidase (COX), adenosine triphosphatase (ATP-ase), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fiber types and the sizes of fibers and mitochondria were determined using ImageJ processing program. The pathological hallmark of mitochondrial myopathy, which was the presence of ragged red fibers, and the presence of novel COX-negative fibers were observed in cleft lip tissues. Muscle fiber type ratio for type II fibers was found to be predominant in orbicularis oris muscle of cleft lip tissues with 78.43 %, while type I fibers was 21.57 %. The diameters of the fibers were 6.37 µm for type I, and 6.87 µm for type II. By means of electron microscopy, minimal accumulation of mitochondria and excessive lipid droplets were noted within the myofibrils of cleft lip orbicularis oris muscle. This report on series of pathologic features of the orbicularis oris muscle and mitochondria provides insights into the possibility of impaired mitochondrial function in non-syndromic cleft lip.
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