Browse publications by year: 2025

  1. Fulltext Risks of habitat loss from seaweed cultivation within seagrass
    Jones BLH, Eklöf JS, Unsworth RKF, Coals L, Christianen MJA, Clifton J, et al.
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 2025 Feb 25;122(8):e2426971122.
    PMID: 39964723 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2426971122
  2. A review of fire performance of plant-based natural fibre reinforced polymer composites
    Mulla MH, Norizan MN, Mohammad Rawi NF, Mohamad Kassim MH, Abdullah CK, Abdullah N, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2025 Feb 16;305(Pt 2):141130.
    PMID: 39965704 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.141130
    Natural fibre from plant-based reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs) offers an attractive solution for various applications due to their cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and favourable properties. These materials provide high strength and stiffness while remaining lightweight, which is especially advantageous in weight-sensitive applications. However, their susceptibility to high flammability poses a significant challenge for applications requiring robust fire resistance. Consequently, researchers and engineers face the primary task of enhancing flame retardancy and thermal stability in NFRPCs. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the flammability and flame retardancy aspects of NFRPCs, delving into critical elements such as modification methods, the interfacial bond between natural fibres and the polymer matrix, fibre type, loading ratio, fibre orientation, polymer type, and composite structure. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving material fire resistance. The paper explores various flame-retardant strategies for NFRPCs, including additives, coatings, treatments, and nanomaterial hybridization. Detailed insights into mechanisms and characterization techniques related to thermal and flame retardancy are provided, covering aspects like thermal degradation, char formation, gas-phase reactions, fire testing methods, universally accepted standards, and specific flame-retardant requirements for NFRPCs in diverse applications such as automotive, aerospace, marine, and civil construction. The discussion on future directions emphasizes the development of innovative flame-retardant materials, improving composite design and fabrication improvements, and assessing fire performance and environmental impact.
  3. Exploring the anti-obesity effects of Lactobacillus in C57BL/6 mice: mechanisms, interventions, and future directions
    Lim SYM, Chong EJ, Mah WY, Pan Y, Fang CM, Murugaiah C, et al.
    Lett Appl Microbiol, 2025 Mar 03;78(3).
    PMID: 39965784 DOI: 10.1093/lambio/ovaf024
    Lactobacillus species show strong potential in fighting obesity-related inflammation and metabolic issues. Obesity causes inflammation in adipose tissue, which harms insulin sensitivity and leads to fat buildup. Lactobacillus strains like Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Lactobacillus plantarum help regulate lipid metabolism by boosting key genes, preventing fat cell formation, and encouraging fat breakdown. They also produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that improve gut health, activate metabolic pathways, and reduce inflammation. Studies in animals have shown that Lactobacillus can reduce body weight, fat, and inflammation, with Lactobacillus plantarum being especially effective in improving gut microbiota and liver function. When combined with other probiotics or prebiotics, these strains work even better, enhancing lipid metabolism and reducing inflammation. These results suggest that Lactobacillus could be an effective way to manage obesity and related health problems by influencing metabolism, gut health, and inflammation. However, more research, particularly human clinical trials, is needed to confirm its potential as a dietary treatment for obesity.
    MeSH terms: Gastrointestinal Microbiome*; Animals; Humans; Inflammation; Lactobacillus*; Mice, Inbred C57BL*; Anti-Obesity Agents/pharmacology; Lipid Metabolism; Mice
  4. Symptom reduction in advanced cancer from multi-session mindful breathing: randomised controlled study
    Tung YZ, Ng DLC, Lai NZ, Ang CM, Lim PK, Zainuddin SI, et al.
    BMJ Support Palliat Care, 2025 Feb 18.
    PMID: 39965903 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2024-005086
    OBJECTIVES: While single-session mindful breathing shows symptom reduction in palliative care, data on multi-session efficacy is lacking. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of multi-session mindful breathing in reducing symptoms among patients with advanced cancer.

    METHODS: Adult patients with advanced cancer who scored ≥4 in at least two or more symptoms based on the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) were recruited from January to March 2020 at the University of Malaya Medical Centre, Malaysia. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either four daily sessions of 30 min mindful breathing and standard care (intervention) or standard care alone (control). The outcome measured was the change in the ESAS score after each session.

    RESULTS: 80 patients were recruited and randomised equally into the intervention and control groups. The demographic and clinical characteristics between the two groups were not statistically different. For the intervention group, there were statistically significant reductions in the total ESAS scores following all four sessions of 30 min mindful breathing (n1=40: z1=-5.09, p<0.001; z2=-3.77, p<0.001; z3=-4.38, p<0.001; z4=-3.27, p<0.05). For the control group, statistically significant reductions in the total ESAS scores were seen only after sessions 1 and 3 (n2=40: z1=-4.04, p<0.001; z3=-4.53, p<0.001).

    CONCLUSIONS: Our result provides evidence that four daily sessions of 30 min mindful breathing may be effective in reducing multiple symptoms rapidly in patients with advanced cancer.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05910541.

  5. Fulltext Determinants of unfavourable treatment outcomes of drug-resistant tuberculosis cases in Malaysia: a case-control study
    Kamarul Zaman MF, Nik Husain NR, Sidek MY, Abu Bakar Z
    BMJ Open, 2025 Feb 18;15(2):e093391.
    PMID: 39965941 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-093391
    OBJECTIVES: The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) complicates TB management and poses significant challenges to achieve favourable treatment outcomes. Treating DR-TB is more complex and costly, requiring extended treatment durations and consideration of drug toxicity and side effects. This study aims to identify the determinants of unfavourable treatment outcomes among DR-TB patients in Malaysia.

    DESIGN: Retrospective case-control study.

    SETTING: Secondary data from the National Tuberculosis Registry (NTBR) across two states in Malaysia.

    PARTICIPANTS: All reported DR-TB cases in the NTBR between 2016 and 2020 from Selangor and Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Cases still undergoing treatment at the time of analysis were excluded. A total of 403 cases were analysed, with 181 (44.9%) experiencing unfavourable treatment outcomes and 222 (55.1%) having favourable treatment outcomes. The case group consists of individuals with DR-TB who experienced unfavourable treatment outcomes, while the control group comprises individuals with DR-TB who achieved favourable treatment outcomes.

    OUTCOME MEASURES: Unfavourable treatment outcomes, defined as death, treatment failure or loss to follow-up, were assessed. Predictors of these outcomes were identified through multiple logistic regression analysis.

    RESULTS: Significant determinants of unfavourable treatment outcomes included being male (adjusted OR (aOR) 2.38, 95% CI 1.44 to 3.94), being single or divorced (aOR 1.61, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.49), having no formal education (aOR 3.09, 95% CI 1.49 to 6.41), people living with HIV (aOR 2.87, 95% CI 1.40 to 5.87) and having DR-TB categorised as rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (aOR 3.34, 95% CI 1.90 to 5.86) or multidrug-resistant/pre-extensively drug-resistant/extensively drug-resistant-TB (aOR 2.57, 95% CI 1.52 to 4.33).

    CONCLUSION: The findings reveal a high proportion of DR-TB cases with unfavourable treatment outcomes and identify their key determinants. Targeted interventions addressing these factors are essential to improve treatment outcomes.

    MeSH terms: Adult; Female; Humans; Malaysia/epidemiology; Male; Middle Aged; Retrospective Studies; Risk Factors; Case-Control Studies; Treatment Outcome; Treatment Failure; Young Adult
  6. Biochar-based electrochemical sensors: a tailored approach to environmental monitoring
    Zheng ALT, Lih ETY, Hung YP, Boonyuen S, Al Edrus SSO, Chung ELT, et al.
    Anal Sci, 2025 Feb 18.
    PMID: 39966322 DOI: 10.1007/s44211-025-00726-8
    Biochar (BC), often obtained via thermochemical conversion methods of biomass, has emerged as a versatile material with significant potential in electrochemical sensing applications. This review critically examines the recent advancements in the development of BC-based sensors for the electrochemical determination of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, heavy metals, phenolic compounds, and microplastics. BC-based electrochemical sensors have emerged as a promising alternative due to their sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and excellent electrochemical properties. The unique physicochemical properties of BC, including its high surface area, porosity, and functional groups, contribute to its effectiveness as a sensor material. The review begins with an overview of the synthesis methods for BC, highlighting the activation strategies on its structural and electrochemical properties. Next, the functionalization of BC and its integration into electrochemical sensor platforms are explored. The performance of BC-based sensors is evaluated using electrochemical focusing on their sensitivity, selectivity, detection limits, and stability. Future directions for research are proposed, emphasizing the need for further optimization, miniaturization, and integration of BC-based sensors into portable and on-site analytical devices.
  7. Fulltext Performance and emission prediction using ANN (artificial neural network) on H2-assisted Garcinia gummi-gutta biofuel doped with nano additives
    Venu H, Soudagar MEM, Kiong TS, Razali NM, Wei HR, Khan TMY, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2025 Feb 18;15(1):5911.
    PMID: 39966510 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-90165-2
    The current work focuses on utilization of ANN (artificial neural network) for the prediction of performance and tailpipe emissions of Garcinia gummigutta methyl ester (GGME) enriched with H2 and TiO2 nano additives. For experimentation, H2 gas was introduced to the mixes containing TiO2 nanoparticles. Diesel, B10 blend (10% GGME biofuel + 90% Diesel), B20 (20% GGME biofuel + 80% Diesel), Diesel-TiO2 (Mineral Diesel with 100 ppm TiO2 nano additives), B10-H2-TiO2 (B10 blend with 100 ppm nano additives + 5 L/min of H2) and B20-H2-TiO2 (B20 blend with 100 ppm nanoparticles + 5 L/min of H2) were considered for experimentation. A constant mass flow rate of 10 L/min was used for the hydrogen flow throughout the test procedures. Test results were carefully analyzed to determine the performance and emission measures. Different speeds between 1800 and 2800 rpm were used for each test. When combined with pure Diesel and mixtures of biodiesel, these nanoparticles and hydrogen enhanced the performance data. For instance, the brake-specific fuel consumption was reduced but the power, torque, and thermal efficiency were increased. Although there was a modest rise in NO emissions, the primary goal of lowering CO, CO2, and other UHC emissions was met. The ANN models confirm and agreed the Diesel engine experimental work possesses minimal root mean square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficient values were estimated. This ideal model predicts and optimizes the engine output at a higher accuracy level, which gives better results compared with other empirical and theoretical models.
  8. Fulltext Author Correction: OPEFB pretreatment using the low-cost N,N,N-dimethylbutylammonium hydrogen sulfate ionic liquid under varying conditions
    Shikh Zahari SMSN, Liu Y, Yao P, Ideris MS, Azman HH, Hallett JP
    Sci Rep, 2025 Feb 18;15(1):5923.
    PMID: 39966544 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-88935-z
  9. Fulltext Dynamic analysis of a novel 3D chaotic map with two internal frequencies
    Wang P, Wang Q, Sang H, Li K, Yu X, Xiong W
    Sci Rep, 2025 Feb 18;15(1):5952.
    PMID: 39966560 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-90596-x
    Trigonometric functions serving as boundary functions are excellent nonlinear elements in designing chaotic maps. However, research on the dynamical behaviors dependent on the internal frequency within these boundary functions is not yet sufficient. Hence, in this paper, a novel chaotic map is proposed. Numerical simulations reveal the unique dynamical behaviors dependent on its dominant and recessive internal frequencies, including the control of the map's Lyapunov exponents and their impact on the overall system performance. This unique phenomenon has not been reported before. The system's initial boosting behavior is then captured, further revealing its initial-boosted extreme multistability. This map is implemented on the STM32 platform, demonstrating its practical applicability for potential practical application scenarios. Ultimately, the map is applied in designing a pseudo-random number generator, and its high randomness is validated through the NIST SP800-22 test.
  10. Influence of maternal risk perception and vaccination knowledge on childhood vaccination intentions
    Md Suhaimi TM, Ismail A, Ismail R, Rasudin NS, Mohd Noor N, Jayapalan A, et al.
    BMC Public Health, 2025 Feb 18;25(1):671.
    PMID: 39966911 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-21815-3
    BACKGROUND: Vaccine hesitancy remains a significant barrier to effective public health strategies aimed at overcoming the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases globally. This study aims to explore the roles of maternal knowledge, risk perception, health self-efficacy, and demographic characteristics in influencing the intention of antenatal mothers to accept childhood vaccination for their newborns.

    METHODS: A descriptive and analytic cross sectional study design was conducted from March to September 2021, among antenatal mothers attending routine antenatal follow-ups at 17 public health clinics in Selangor, Malaysia. A validated and reliable self administered questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic characteristics, knowledge, risk perceptions, health self-efficacy, and vaccination intentions among antenatal mothers. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify determinants of vaccination intention among antenatal mothers.

    RESULTS: The study included 796 antenatal mothers, predominantly Malay mothers (87.5%). The respondents presented a high mean vaccination intention score of 26.02 ± 2.77. Significant determinants of vaccination intention among antenatal mothers included the number of children (β = 0.156, 95% CI [0.013, 0.299], p = 0.032), knowledge score (β = 0.397, 95% CI [0.288, 0.506], p 

    MeSH terms: Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*; Malaysia; Pregnancy; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vaccination/psychology; Vaccination/statistics & numerical data; Self Efficacy; Intention*; Young Adult
  11. Fatty acid esters of 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol and glycidol in palm oil: A review on current industrial-scale mitigation strategies, challenges and perspectives
    Ong YH, Song CP, Choo WS, Lee YY, Qua KS, Quek WP, et al.
    Food Res Int, 2025 Feb;202:115697.
    PMID: 39967094 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115697
    Glycidyl ester (GE) and 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol ester (3-MCPDE) are food contaminants formed during edible oil refining. Due to their potential human carcinogenicity, the European Commission has established regulatory limits for vegetable oil, including palm oil. While laboratory-scale studies have shown promising reductions, large-scale implementation remains challenging. This review examines current mitigation technologies for palm oil, evaluated from lab to plant scale, and explores the challenges of large-scale implementation. Effective methods, such as crude palm oil washing, bleaching with non-hydrochloric acid-activated bleaching earth, dual-temperature deodorisation, and double refining, have been successfully tested at pilot scale or larger. Particularly, crude palm oil washing is widely adopted to reduce 3-MCPDE, whereas double refining effectively targets GE. However, a combination of strategies is required to simultaneously reduce 3-MCPDE and GE. These measures often lead to increased costs, oil loss and wastewater generation, with potential impacts on product quality. Furthermore, maintaining crude palm oil quality through good harvesting and milling practices is essential for consistent mitigation results. Continued research is necessary to improve mitigation methods for greater cost efficiency and reduced environmental impact, with large-scale studies needed to validate lab-scale findings and facilitate industry adoption.
    MeSH terms: alpha-Chlorohydrin*; Epoxy Compounds*; Esters*; Food Handling/methods; Propanols*
  12. Insight into the mechanism of setting temperature and time on gel properties of Solenocera crassicornis surimi
    Lu J, Tong J, Xu D, Wei H, Huang T, Yang W, et al.
    Food Res Int, 2025 Feb;202:115813.
    PMID: 39967123 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115813
    This study explored how setting conditions affect the gel properties of shrimp surimi from Solenocera crassicornis using a two-step heating process with varying temperatures (30, 40, 50 °C) and durations (0-120 min). At 30 °C, increased hydrogen bonds and cross-linking promoted macromolecular polymer formation, with optimal elasticity achieved at 15-30 min, but longer times led to gel aggregation and uneven structure. At 40 °C, macromolecular polymer decreased, while sulfhydryl groups increased, leading to disulfide bond formation, which disrupted hydrogen bonds and increased hydrophobic groups. Gel strength decreased over setting time, with a soft and smooth texture observed after 15-30 min. Setting at 50 °C disrupted chemical bonds, exposed hydrophobic groups, and resulted in less significant changes in storage modulus and loss modulus. After high-temperature gelation at 90 °C, disulfide bonds were further disrupted, reducing the stability of gel properties. Moreover, an increase in the setting temperature affected the internal water distribution within the shrimp surimi gel. A shorter setting time promoted the absorption of water molecules by starch in the gel, thereby reducing the free water content. However, when the setting time exceeded 60 min, the proportions of bound water and immobile water decreased, gradually transforming into free water. This transformation increased the drip loss and softened the texture of gel. In summary, setting conditions significantly influenced moisture distribution, viscoelasticity, and chemical forces in shrimp surimi gels.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Elasticity; Food Handling/methods; Hot Temperature; Hydrogen Bonding; Rheology; Temperature; Time Factors; Water/chemistry; Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
  13. Effect of magnetic field-assisted thawing on the quality and microstructure of Portunus trituberculatus meat
    Shi R, Sun Z, Yu X, Wei H, Li G, Yang W
    Food Res Int, 2025 Feb;202:115722.
    PMID: 39967174 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115722
    The objective of this study was to examine the impact of magnetic field-assisted thawing (MFT) on the quality and microstructure of Portunus trituberculatus meat, in comparison to other thawing methods (Air thawing, AT; Hydrostatic thawing, HT; Microwave thawing, MT). A comprehensive comparative analysis was conducted on different physicochemical and flavor properties of crab meat. MFT significantly reduced thawing loss by 18.9-20.0 % and TBARS levels by 40 % compared to the other methods, demonstrating its ability to minimize lipid oxidation. Microstructure analysis showed that MFT preserved muscle fiber integrity, leading to a denser and more organized structure with reduced protein denaturation. This performance was attributed to MFT's ability to reduce protein denaturation, which effectively minimizes water loss and inhibits lipid oxidation during thawing. Moreover, MFT improved the retention of key flavor compounds, increasing nonanal and 2-undecanone levels by 31.4 % and 69 %, respectively, contributing to a fresher aroma. MFT group also retained more umami (Glu + 40.8 %) and sweet amino acids (Gly, Ala + about 19.8 %), and nucleotides (AMP + 0.8 %, IMP + 9.4 %), while less bitter amino acids (Lys -68.2 %, Met -51.9 %). In conclusion, MFT had good ability of keeping quality of crabs meat, providing noval thawing method for P. trituberculatus.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Food Handling/methods; Freezing; Taste; Seafood/analysis; Magnetic Fields*
  14. Fulltext A review on the role of nanoparticles for targeted brain drug delivery: synthesis, characterization, and applications
    Mohammed PN, Hussen NH, Hasan AH, Salh HJH, Jamalis J, Ahmed S, et al.
    EXCLI J, 2025;24:34-59.
    PMID: 39967907 DOI: 10.17179/excli2024-7163
    Unfortunately, nowadays, brain disorders, which include both neurological and mental disorders, are the main cause of years spent living with a disability worldwide. There are serious diseases with a high prevalence and a high mortality rate. However, the outmoded technical infrastructure makes their treatment difficult. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) serves as a protective mechanism for the central nervous system (CNS) and regulates its homeostatic processes. The brain is protected against injury and illness by an extremely complex system that precisely regulates the flow of ions, very few tiny molecules, and an even smaller number of macromolecules from the blood to the brain. Nevertheless, the BBB also considerably inhibits the delivery of medications to the brain, making it impossible to treat a variety of neurological diseases. Several strategies are now being studied to enhance the transport of drugs over the BBB. According to this research, nanoparticles are one of the most promising agents for brain disease treatment while many conventional drugs are also capable of crossing this barrier but there are amazing facts about nanoparticles in brain drug delivery. For example, 1. Precision Targeting: Through mechanisms such as receptor-mediated transport, ligand attachment, or the use of external stimuli (e.g., magnetic or thermal guidance), nanoparticles can deliver drugs specifically to diseased areas of the brain while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. This targeted approach reduces side effects and enhances therapeutic outcomes. 2. Improved Drug Stability: Drugs can be encapsulated by nanoparticles, which keeps them stable and shields them from deterioration while being transported to the brain. 3. Therapeutic Payload: Nanoparticles possess a high surface-area-to-volume ratio, enabling them to encapsulate a substantial quantity of therapeutic agents relative to their size. This allows for enhanced drug delivery efficiency, maximizing therapeutic outcomes while potentially reducing the required dosage to achieve the desired effect. 4. Imaging Properties: Certain nanoparticles can also act as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), allowing for the real-time visualization of drug distribution and administration in the brain. 5. Combination Therapy Possibility: Nanoparticles can be designed to co-deliver multiple medications or therapeutic agents, which could enhance synergistic effects. There have been in vivo studies where nanoparticles were successfully used for combination therapies, demonstrating potential for personalized treatments. One notable example is in cancer treatment, where nanoparticles have been designed to co-deliver multiple chemotherapeutic agents. In general, brain medication delivery by nanoparticles is a novel strategy that has the potential to revolutionize neurological disease therapy and enhance patient outcomes. The study furthermore includes a concise depiction of the structural and physiological characteristics of the BBB, and it also provides an overview of the nanoparticles that are most often used in medicine. A brief overview of the structural and physiochemical characteristics of the NPs, as well as the most popular nanoparticles used in medicine, is also included in the review.
  15. Fulltext Virtual screening, in silico pharmacokinetic and toxicity profiling of colchicine-based inhibitors of estrogen receptor of breast cancer
    Ameji PJ, Shtaiwi A, Adnan R
    Toxicol Rep, 2025 Jun;14:101926.
    PMID: 39968053 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2025.101926
    The declining efficacies of existing drugs against estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer due to multidrug resistance, acute toxicities, and poor pharmacokinetic properties has necessitated the discovery of newer ones. In this study, colchicine analogues with proven in vitro activities against breast cancer cells were screened against estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) via molecular docking simulations to identify some promising drug candidates. The identified ligands were further subjected to MM/GBSA calculations to ascertain their solvation-dependent Gibb's free energy of binding (∆GB). Three most promising ligands (MPLs); 12, 16, and 21 with ∆GB values of - 40.37, - 40.31, and - 40.26 kcal/mol, respectively, were identified. When compared with tamoxifen (standard drug) whose ∆GB value is - 38.66 kcal/mol, the MPLs appear more potent. The kinetic stabilities of 12, 16, and 21 were confirmed by DFT (B3LYP/6-31G*) calculations and the time-dependent thermodynamic stabilities of their complexes with ERα were established by molecular dynamic simulations. In addition, the MPLs display positive pharmacokinetic and toxicity profiles and could be excellent sources of potent and non-toxic drug candidates against ER+ breast carcinoma.
  16. Fulltext Beyond borders: The transcendent effect of Korean celebrity credibility on brand perceptions among Malaysian youth - A necessary condition analysis
    Rosli N, Binti Mohamad AD, Johar ER, Hashim S, Lim XJ
    Heliyon, 2025 Feb 15;11(3):e41155.
    PMID: 39968130 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e41155
    In recent decades, the Korean Wave has surged as a global cultural force, captivating audiences across diverse geographical, cultural and linguistic landscapes, particularly in Asia-including Malaysia. To contribute to knowledge on this dynamic cultural phenomenon, this paper introduces a new analytical approach known as necessary condition analysis (NCA). The study initially investigates how a celebrity's credibility, encompassing attributes such as attractiveness, expertise and trustworthiness, alongside consumer self-satisfaction, influences perceptions of the endorsed brand image. Furthermore, the research aims to pinpoint the essential factors shaping a celebrity's credibility and their impact on consumer perceptions. An online survey was conducted with 100 young Malaysian consumers, and their responses were examined using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that credibility traits such as expertise and self-satisfaction significantly enhance perceptions of the endorsed brand. Additionally, NCA underscores the pivotal role of credibility traits (including expertise, trustworthiness and attractiveness) and self-satisfaction in shaping brand image. Notably, both self-satisfaction and expertise emerge as critical and substantial conditions influencing consumer perceptions. Conversely, whilst attractiveness and trustworthiness are not individually impactful on brand image, they are identified as necessary conditions for the outcomes. This study underscores the strategic importance of Korean celebrity endorsements in refining marketing and promotional strategies across diverse industries, leveraging the influential power of the Korean Wave in global consumer markets.
  17. Fulltext Cyclosporin-Induced Gingival Enlargement in a Periodontitis Patient With Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Case Report
    Chong WJ, Ibrahim N, Mohd-Said S
    Case Rep Dent, 2025;2025:8318894.
    PMID: 39968166 DOI: 10.1155/crid/8318894
    Background: Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting mucous membranes and skin, with potential life-threatening risks. It is typically characterized by blisters within the oral cavity with or without subsequent skin involvement. Given the importance of timely intervention, dental professionals are responsible for diagnosing this condition, as prompt detection and intervention greatly influence the disease progression and prognosis. Case Description: A 44-year-old male patient presented with swollen and bleeding gums, accompanied by multiple chronic ulcers in the oral cavity. He was initially diagnosed with PV in 2018; his case posed significant challenges, including drug-influenced gingival enlargement and the psychological burden of managing a chronic, relapsing condition. Management and Prognosis: The patient received treatment with an immunosuppressive medication (cyclosporin) along with long-term systemic steroids (prednisolone). In November 2022, cyclosporin was replaced with a steroid-sparing medication (methotrexate) to control drug-influenced gingival enlargement. The periodontal condition improved after 3 months of changing the medication regimen, nonsurgical periodontal therapy, and reinforced oral hygiene practices. The patient undergoes regular medical evaluations every 6 months with the dermatology department. Clinical Implications: Effective management of PV necessitates long-term systemic steroid therapy, often supplemented with immunosuppressive agents, to control the disease and minimize relapse risks. Regular clinical assessments are essential for patients receiving steroid and immunosuppressive treatment to monitor potential side effects, including cyclosporin-induced gingival enlargement. If gingival enlargement is compounded by periodontal disease, it can further complicate the management of PV. Drug-induced gingival enlargement has a favorable prognosis and is reversible upon discontinuation or substitution of the causative medication. An interdisciplinary approach involving primary clinicians, dentists, and the healthcare team is crucial to addressing the patient's signs and symptoms effectively.
  18. Expanding mental health support: Empowering medical professionals with greater resilience
    Jiang Y, Zhou H, Samah NA
    S Afr J Psychiatr, 2025;31:2386.
    PMID: 39968314 DOI: 10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v31i0.2386
  19. Fulltext Indonesian Nursing Students' Perceptions of Caring in Clinical Setting: A Descriptive Qualitative Study
    Mariyanti H, Yeo KJ, Klankhajhon S, Arifin H
    SAGE Open Nurs, 2025;11:23779608241312485.
    PMID: 39968386 DOI: 10.1177/23779608241312485
    BACKGROUND: Clinical education is crucial in nursing programs for preparing students to deliver compassionate, high-quality care. However, research on nursing students' perceptions and expressions of caring behaviors in clinical settings is limited, particularly in Indonesia. This study aims to explore Indonesian nursing students' views on caring behaviors in clinical settings, addressing a significant gap in nursing education research within the Indonesian context.

    METHODS: A descriptive phenomenology research design was employed in this study. Nursing students' views and perceptions of caring were obtained through telephone interviews with semistructured questions. The research participants comprised 20 undergraduate nursing students undergoing clinical education at nursing education institutions in Surabaya, Indonesia, obtained through purposive sampling. The recorded interviews were transcribed and analyzed using a phenomenological method. To ensure reliability and validity in the data analysis process, grounded in Husserlian phenomenology and Giorgi's phenomenological method were employed.

    RESULTS: Seven key themes related to the perceptions of caring behavior emerged from the phenomenological analysis: (1) Caring as trying one's best to meet patients' needs; (2) Caring as a central value of nursing practice; (3) Caring as compassion; (4) Caring as helping each other; (5) Caring as awareness of patients' individual needs; (6) Caring as professionalism; and (7) Caring as support.

    CONCLUSION: The findings of this study are expected to significantly improve nursing student application of caring behavior in the clinical setting. Increasing understanding and application of caring behavior in nursing students can have a positive impact on clinical practice. This study is useful as a guide for educators to help nursing students improve their caring practice in the clinical setting.

  20. Fulltext Neck Abscess as a Rare Sequela of Pediatric Varicella-Zoster Infection: A Case Report
    Palanimuthu D, Yong E, Ramachandran K, Chen IHK
    Cureus, 2025 Jan;17(1):e77639.
    PMID: 39968434 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.77639
    Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a DNA virus of the herpes virus family. While typically mild and self-limiting, it poses a high risk of contagion. A generalized pruritic rash is the common initial symptom among pediatric populations. Complications often include bacterial infections of skin lesions, predominantly staphylococcal or streptococcal, which may progress to cellulitis or bullous impetigo. Additionally, it may lead to more severe complications such as cerebellar ataxia, encephalitis, viral pneumonia, hemorrhagic conditions, and joint involvement. We present a case of a 17-month-old male diagnosed with varicella-zoster infection a week prior. His presentation included diffuse swelling in the left neck, accompanied by fever and reduced oral intake. Clinical and radiological assessments confirmed a left neck abscess with multiple cervical lymphadenitis. Following the incision and drainage of the abscess, the patient achieved complete resolution of symptoms with antimicrobial treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of pediatric varicella-zoster infection complicated by a secondary bacterial skin infection leading to a neck abscess. It underscores the importance for clinicians to perform comprehensive evaluations in patients manifesting secondary skin lesion infections. Early referral to tertiary care facilities is imperative, as neck abscesses, albeit rare, necessitate prompt treatment to avert potential complications.
External Links