Browse publications by year: 2025

  1. Rosli KA, Misran A, Saiful Yazan L, Megat Wahab PE
    Plant Physiol Biochem, 2025 Feb;219:109374.
    PMID: 39709665 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.109374
    Agastache rugosa, a perennial herb native to temperate and subtropical regions, shows remarkable adaptive strategies when exposed to varying light and nutrient conditions in tropical environments. Our study reveals new insights into the crosstalk mechanisms involving carbohydrate homeostasis, biomass allocation, and nutrient acquisition in A. rugosa under different environmental conditions. Treatments were two light levels; HL (high-light, 0% shade) and LL (low-light, 50% shade), and four nutrient rates; NPK1 (40 mg kg-1), NPK2 (80 mg kg-1), NPK3 (120 mg kg-1) and NPK4 (160 mg kg-1). High-light coupled with increasing nutrient levels (HL-NPK3 and HL-NPK4) promoted biomass production via increased carbon assimilation, associated with higher soluble sugar levels and higher phosphorus and potassium uptake mediated by the upregulation of plasma membrane H+-ATPase. Maximum carbohydrate accumulation occurred at high-light and the lowest nutrient levels (HL-NPK1), coinciding with increased nitrogen uptake and the drastically high leaf nitrogen concentration. This response was preceded by the upregulation of acid phosphatase and sucrose phosphate synthase, suggesting a compensatory mechanism to maintain nutrient and carbohydrate reserves for critical metabolic processes. Starch increase was more apparent under low-light and higher nutrient levels (LL-NPK3 and LL-NPK4), relative to invertase downregulation, indicating a shift towards carbohydrate storage rather than utilization. These findings underscore the complex interplay between sugar signaling, nutrient sensing, enzymatic actions, and proton pump activity in modulating plant adaptation to varying environmental conditions. This study also highlights the importance of understanding how non-model medicinal species like A. rugosa reprogram their metabolism and resource allocation in response to environmental changes.
    MeSH terms: Light*; Nitrogen/metabolism; Phosphorus/metabolism; Plant Proteins/metabolism; Plant Leaves/metabolism; Carbohydrate Metabolism*
  2. Naz T, Zhao XY, Li S, Saeed T, Ullah S, Nazir Y, et al.
    PMID: 39733936 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2024.159592
    SREBP1 is a transcription factor that influences lipogenesis by regulating key genes associated with lipid biosynthesis, while AMPK, modulates lipid metabolism by regulating acetyl-CoA carboxylase. The exact role of these metabolic regulators in oleaginous microbes remains unclear. This study identified and manipulated the genes encoding SREBP1 (sre1) and α1 subunit of AMPK (ampk-α1) in Mucor circinelloides WJ11. Individual overexpression of sre1 yielded 32.5 % lipids and 21 g/L biomass, while ampk-α1 deletion combined with sre1 overexpression yielded 42.5 % lipids and 25 g/L biomass in mutant strains. This increase correlated with upregulated expression of key lipogenic genes and enzyme activity, enhancing lipid production and biomass. These surges were correlated with the increased mRNA levels of key genes (acl, acc1, acc2, cme1, fas1, g6pdh1, g6pdh2 and 6pgdh2). Enzyme activity analysis further showed that upregulation of ACL, ACC, ME, FAS, G6PDH and 6PGDH might provide more precursors and NADPH for lipid biosynthesis in sre1 overexpressing strains. Conversely, the activities of these genes and enzymes were markedly downregulated in sre1 deleted mutants consistent with lower lipid production and biomass than the control. These findings open new avenues for research by exploring the coordinated role of sre1 and ampk-α1 in lipid metabolism in M. circinelloides.
    MeSH terms: Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase/genetics; Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase/metabolism; Fungal Proteins/genetics; Fungal Proteins/metabolism; Lipids/biosynthesis; Lipids/genetics; Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal*; Lipogenesis/genetics; Lipid Metabolism/genetics
  3. Gololo AA, Veettil SK, Anantachoti P, Taychakhoonavudh S, Patikorn C
    Trop Med Int Health, 2025 Feb;30(2):71-83.
    PMID: 39743841 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.14080
    BACKGROUND: Epidemiological modelling studies in snakebite envenoming research are evolving. Their techniques can be essential in filling the knowledge gap needed to attain the World Health Organization's (WHO) goal of halving the burden of snakebite envenoming by complementing the current data scarcity. Hence, there is a need for a systematic review to summarise epidemiological models used in estimating the burden of snakebite envenoming.

    METHODS: We conducted a systematic review by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus to identify articles reporting epidemiological models in snakebite envenoming from database inception to 31st December 2023. A narrative synthesis was performed to summarise types of models, methodologies, input parameters, model outputs, and associating factors.

    RESULTS: Thirty-nine modelling studies were included from 2426 retrieved articles, comprising statistical models (76.9%) and mathematical models (23.1%). Most of the studies were conducted in South Asia, (35.9%) and Latin America (35.9%), and only a few (5.1%) were a global burden estimation. The eligible studies constructed 42 epidemiological models, of which 33 were statistical models that included regression, (60.6%) geostatistical (21.2%), and time series, (18.2%) while 9 mathematical models comprised compartmental, (44.4%) agent-based, (22.2%) transmission dynamics, (11.1%) network, (11.1%) and a simple mathematical model (11.1%). The outputs of the models varied across the study objectives. Statistical models analysed the relationship between incidence, (83.3%) mortality, (33.3%) morbidity (16.7%) and prevalence (10.0%) and their associating factors (environmental, [80%] socio-demographic [33.3%] and therapeutic [10.0%]). Mathematical models estimated incidence, (100%) mortality (33.3%), and morbidity (22.2%). Five mathematical modelling studies considered associating factors, including environmental (60%) and socio-demographic factors (40%).

    CONCLUSION: Mathematical and statistical models are crucial for estimating the burden of snakebite envenoming, offering insights into risk prediction and resource allocation. Current challenges include low-quality data and methodological heterogeneity. Modelling studies are needed, and their continued improvement is vital for meeting WHO goals. Future research should emphasise standardised methodologies, high-quality community data, and stakeholder engagement to create accurate, applicable models for prevention and resource optimization in high-burden regions, including Africa and Asia.

    MeSH terms: Humans; Models, Theoretical; Models, Statistical; Cost of Illness
  4. Prismantoro D, Chua KO, Teo KW, Chan R, Jefferson TA, Suhaimi NSM, et al.
    Data Brief, 2025 Feb;58:111283.
    PMID: 39895666 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2025.111283
    Trichoderma yunnanense strain TM10 was isolated from rhizosphere soil of rice plants cultivated under system of rice intensification (SRI) practises in West Java, Indonesia. It exhibits significant potential as a plant growth promoter and biocontrol agent in rice plants. Although this strain has shown promise in promoting plant growth and suppressing phytopathogens under in vitro and in planta conditions, there is still a lack of genomic data to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its plant growth-promoting and biocontrol capabilities. This study reports the whole genome sequence of T. yunnanense strain TM10. The genome of the fungus was sequenced using the MGI DNBSEQ-G400 high-throughput sequencing platform. The assembled genome of T. yunnanense strain TM10 was approximately 36 Mbp in length, comprising 385 contigs with a GC content of 48 % and a sequencing coverage of 43.8×. This genomic data provides a foundation for harnessing the plant growth-promoting and biocontrol potential of this strain. The complete genome sequence has been deposited at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) under Bioproject accession number PRJNA1181959, BioSample ID SAMN44575400, and genome accession number JBIYZQ000000000. These data are valuable for further research into the biotechnological potential of this strain and for exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying its plant growth-promoting and biocontrol activities.
  5. Tan BT, Mohd Rashid NA, Mohamad Idris NH, Wun WL, Lee HL
    ACS Omega, 2025 Jan 28;10(3):2858-2870.
    PMID: 39895745 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c08813
    Wastewater treatment has been regarded as an effective solution in lowering the potential environmental hazards caused by palm oil mill effluent (POME). To ensure the efficient remediation of POME, the implementation of a promising strategy is necessary to overcome the limitations of conventional water treatment methods for the treatment of this pollutant. In this study, the synthesis of carbon, nitrogen codoped titanium dioxide nanoparticles (C, N-TiO2 NPs) was successfully performed by a sol-gel approach for the treatment of POME as a model pollutant under solar light irradiation. The synthesized C, N-TiO2 NPs displayed unique characteristics including an anatase phase with an average crystallite size of 11.35 nm and irregular spherical structures. Additionally, C, N-TiO2 possessed a lower band gap energy of 2.95 eV than 3.2 V of bulk anatase TiO2 and slower electron-hole (e--h+) pair recombination rate as evidenced by photoluminescence (PL) studies. The adsorption isotherm study of POME was most compatible with the Langmuir isotherm model, and the POME degradation kinetics proceeded according to first-order kinetics. Accordingly, the photocatalytic degradation of POME displayed a maximum degradation efficiency of 100% under the optimum condition of pH 7 in the presence of 0.12 g of the C, N-TiO2 photocatalyst within 150 min. The scavenging study showed that the superoxide radical (•O2 -) was the primary active species in the POME photodegradation. Finally, the reusability analysis confirmed that the C, N-TiO2 NPs could be reused for a maximum of five cycles, making them promising photocatalysts for wastewater treatment.
  6. Muniandy MT, Chee CF, Rahman NA, Wong TW
    ACS Omega, 2025 Jan 28;10(3):2428-2441.
    PMID: 39895753 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c03529
    Oligochitosan is an anticancer water-soluble biomaterial. Conjugating cisplatin (anticancer drug) and folic acid (targeting ligand) with oligochitosan reduces its aqueous solubility, thus requiring excessive drug dose to be biologically active and organic instead of aqueous processing into nanomedicine. Covalent grafting of oleic acid onto oligochitosan-folate-cisplatin conjugate is envisaged to promote aqueous solubility via reducing interchain interaction, but it is challenging where multiple functional moieties are covalently attached onto a short oligomer (<5 kDa). This study produced oligochitosan-oleate-folate-cisplatin conjugate dissolvable in aqueous media pH 3-7, which represents common processing pH in drug vehicle development and tumor microenvironmental pHs. Oligochitosan-oleate conjugation was effected through O-acylation to provide amino groups of oligochitosan for folate and cisplatin grafting. Oligochitosan-folate-cisplatin conjugate was poorly soluble in aqueous and organic media. A degree of oleic acid substitution (DS) < 10% conferred aqueous solubility beyond which became less soluble due to hydrophobicity rise. Oligochitosan-oleate-folate-cisplatin conjugate with 4.51 ± 0.32% DS, 8.50 ± 0.57% folate content, and 0.94 ± 0.80% cisplatin content was dissolvable in aqueous media pH 3.3-7, conferring processing safety with improved cancer cytotoxicity in the nanoparticulate form at the acidic tumor microenvironment.
  7. Alenizi MA, Ahmed NM, Omar MK, Alqanoo AAM, Almessiere MA, Abutawahina MSM, et al.
    ACS Omega, 2025 Jan 28;10(3):3018-3024.
    PMID: 39895756 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c09793
    Flexible, highly conductive, and transparent silver nanowires (AgNWs) have emerged as vital materials for advanced applications in photovoltaics, touch screens, and optoelectronics. However, their practical deployment has been hindered by issues such as poor adhesion to diverse substrates (e.g., glass and plastic) and susceptibility to ambient oxidation. In this study, we present a novel approach to overcome these challenges through the synthesis and performance evaluation of transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) composed of AgNWs with an adhesive SiO2 protective layer deposited on glass, paper, and plastic substrates. Using a combination of polyol synthesis, RF sputtering, and spray coating techniques, we achieved robust and stable TCEs. The SiO2 coating not only significantly improved resistance to oxidation but also enhanced adhesion, mechanical stability, and durability. SiO2/AgNWs/Glass and SiO2/AgNWs/Plastic electrodes demonstrated high transmittance values of 83.36% and 69.67% at 550 nm, along with low sheet resistance of 48.5 Ω sq-1 and 50.2 Ω sq-1, respectively. This work highlights the ability of the adhesive SiO2 layer to preserve optical and electrical properties while enhancing the substrate adherence and protection against degradation.
  8. Zheng X, Weng Z
    PeerJ Comput Sci, 2025;11:e2628.
    PMID: 39896025 DOI: 10.7717/peerj-cs.2628
    As the aesthetic appreciation for art continues to grow, there is an increased demand for precision and detailed control in sculptural works. The advent of 3D laser scanning technology introduces transformative new tools and methodologies for refining correction systems in sculpture design. This article proposes a feature point matching algorithm based on fragment measurement and the iterative closest point (ICP) methodology, leveraging 3D laser scanning technology, namely Fragment Measurement Iterative Closest Point Feature Point Matching (FM-ICP-FPM). The FM-ICP-FPM approach uses the overlapping area of the two sculpture perspectives as a reference for attaching feature points. It employs the 3D measurement system to capture physical point cloud data from the two surfaces to enable the initial alignment of feature points. Feature vectors are generated by segmenting the region around the feature points and computing the intra-block gradient histogram. Subsequently, distance threshold conditions are set based on the constructed feature vectors and the preliminary feature point matches established during the coarse alignment to achieve precise feature point matching. Experimental results demonstrate the exceptional performance of the FM-ICP-FPM algorithm, achieving a sampling interval of 200. The correct matching rate reaches an impressive 100%, while the mean translation error (MTE) is a mere 154 mm, and the mean rotation angle error (MRAE) is 0.065 degrees. The indicator represents the degree of deviation in translation and rotation of the registered model, respectively. These low error values demonstrate that the FM-ICP-FPM algorithm excels in registration accuracy and can generate highly consistent three-dimensional models.
  9. Liu W, Hasikin K, Khairuddin ASM, Liu M, Zhao X
    PeerJ Comput Sci, 2025;11:e2595.
    PMID: 39896034 DOI: 10.7717/peerj-cs.2595
    Temporal knowledge graphs (TKGs) are critical tools for capturing the dynamic nature of facts that evolve over time, making them highly valuable in a broad spectrum of intelligent applications. In the domain of temporal knowledge graph extrapolation reasoning, the prediction of future occurrences is of great significance and presents considerable obstacles. While current models consider the fact changes over time and recognize that historical facts may recur, they often overlook the influence of past events on future predictions. Motivated by these considerations, this work introduces a novel temporal knowledge graph reasoning model, named Temporal Reasoning with Recurrent Encoding and Contrastive Learning (TRCL), which integrates recurrent encoding and contrastive learning techniques. The proposed model has the ability to capture the evolution of historical facts, generating representations of entities and relationships through recurrent encoding. Additionally, TRCL incorporates a global historical matrix to account for repeated historical occurrences and employs contrastive learning to alleviate the interference of historical facts in predicting future events. The TKG reasoning outcomes are subsequently derived through a time decoder. A quantity of experiments conducted on four benchmark datasets demonstrate the exceptional performance of the proposed TRCL model across a range of metrics, surpassing state-of-the-art TKG reasoning models. When compared to the strong baseline Time-Guided Recurrent Graph Network (TiRGN) model, the proposed TRCL achieves 1.03% improvements on ICEWS14 using mean reciprocal rank (MRR) evaluation metric. This innovative proposed method not only enhances the accuracy of TKG extrapolation, but also sets a new standard for robustness in dynamic knowledge graph applications, paving the way for future research and practical applications in predictive intelligence systems.
  10. Tan MKM
    Asian Bioeth Rev, 2025 Jan;17(1):117-128.
    PMID: 39896086 DOI: 10.1007/s41649-024-00313-5
    The dilemmas and uncertainties related to determining mental capacity and surrogate decision-making are universally recognised as one of the most important concepts in the field of clinical ethics. In Malaysia, healthcare practitioners often find both determining decision-making capacity of patients, and identifying surrogate decision makers for incapacitated patients confusing. This paper explores the concepts of decision-making capacity and surrogate decision-making, identifying key components and associated principles such as substituted judgement and best interests. It reviews current provisions and guidances available in Malaysia that are related to these issues, including the Power of Attorney Act 1949 (revised 1990), Mental Health Act 2001, and various guidelines. It then highlights the challenges encountered in the local clinical setting due to the lack of specific legislation and clear guidance. Finally, this paper provides recommendations for improvements to address these issues in order to safeguard both the clinical practice of healthcare professionals and the rights of patients. These recommendations include the establishment of a regulatory framework with four main domains: clear and objective criteria for mental capacity assessment, provisions for advance decision-making while patients still possess mental capacity, a ladder or hierarchy of surrogate decision-makers, and provisions for appropriate surrogate decision-making standards, as well as the need for advocacy and awareness education among both the general public and healthcare professionals.
  11. Omar Z, Otaka Y, Saitoh E
    Fujita Med J, 2025 Feb;11(1):1-10.
    PMID: 39896224 DOI: 10.20407/fmj.2023-019
    OBJECTIVES: We aimed to design and implement a community-based rehabilitation (CBR) curriculum to promote community engagement by multidisciplinary teams.

    METHODS: Participants in this prospective interventional study at a rehabilitation institution for people aging with disabilities included learners, the chief executive officer of the institution, program auditors, and community members. A customized CBR curriculum was developed using systems thinking design. Thirty-five learners were trained through 36 instructional contact hours and 60 hours of guided self-directed learning. Learners completed pre-training self-reported questionnaires regarding knowledge and experience of CBR. During training, learners were evaluated continuously through observation, assignments, self-reported feedback questionnaires, and CBR projects. The chief executive officer was interviewed during the study. The program auditors were interviewed and wrote reports on the curriculum and observations regarding the CBR projects. Learners reported on community participation in these projects.

    RESULTS: Thirty-three of 35 learners completed the program, 31 (94%) of whom had no prior knowledge of CBR. Learners implemented nine community engagement CBR projects, in which 1,293 community members participated. The auditors commended the curriculum content and its positive impact on learners and the community. The chief executive officer implemented inclusive community engagement at work. A CBR curriculum was dynamically developed for multidisciplinary rehabilitation team training to promote community engagement.

    CONCLUSIONS: The custom-designed CBR curriculum enabled multidisciplinary teams to practice community engagement at work. Equipped with CBR knowledge and skills, teams engaged with multiple sectors of the community to enhance patients' rehabilitation potential and increase public awareness through the implemented projects.

  12. McBenedict B, Hauwanga WN, Nezam U, Ko Oo A, Eapi S, Pradhan S, et al.
    Cureus, 2025 Jan;17(1):e76717.
    PMID: 39897290 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.76717
    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis type 8 (ALS8) is a rare familial subtype of ALS caused by mutations in the vesicle-associated membrane protein-associated protein B (VAPB) gene, particularly the p.P56S mutation. It is distinguished by slower disease progression and an earlier onset compared to sporadic ALS forms, along with unique clinical features such as severe cramping, fasciculations, postural tremors, and cognitive and behavioral impairments. Although current pharmacological options, such as riluzole, edaravone, and sodium phenylbutyrate/taurursodiol, provide modest benefits, they fail to address the underlying genetic mechanisms of ALS8. Emerging gene therapies, RNA-based interventions, and stem cell approaches hold promise for precision-targeted treatments but face challenges in clinical application. Symptom management strategies, including respiratory, nutritional, and psychological support, are crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Despite significant progress in understanding the genetic and molecular pathogenesis of ALS8, its rarity, phenotypic variability, and limited clinical data pose challenges to therapeutic advancements. This narrative review highlights current therapeutic strategies, the unique clinical trajectory of ALS8, and potential pathways for innovative, subtype-specific interventions, emphasizing the need for multidisciplinary and targeted approaches to optimize care for this distinct ALS subtype.
  13. Nasuruddin H, Omar MS, Che Ahmad A, Bahaudin N, Ahmad Ismani MS
    Cureus, 2025 Jan;17(1):e76725.
    PMID: 39897327 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.76725
    This prospective study aimed to assess the effect of gradual increment of vector traction weight on reducing displaced acetabular fractures preoperatively. Conducted at Hospital Tuanku Jaafar, Seremban, Malaysia, between June 2016 and December 2017, 21 patients with displaced acetabular fractures were included. Traction was applied using supracondylar and lateral methods, with reduction assessed by serial radiographs. Displacement was defined as greater than 2 cm in both iliopectineal and ilioischial lines. The majority of patients were male with 23 (82.1%) patients and 21 of them (75.0%) having fractures caused by road traffic accidents. Fracture reduction was achieved in 18 cases, with traction weight ranging from 5% to 33.33% of body weight. Traction applied within seven days of trauma significantly improved fracture reduction (p = 0.025). Complications, including pain and pin-tract infection, occurred in 17.9% of cases, but traction weight and duration did not significantly affect complications. The study concludes that vector traction of approximately 20% body weight effectively reduces displaced acetabular fractures preoperatively.
  14. Srivastava KC, Saini RS, Lin GSS, Heboyan A, Shrivastava D
    Health Sci Rep, 2025 Feb;8(2):e70403.
    PMID: 39897464 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.70403
    BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a common chronic inflammatory autoimmune illness that mostly affects the oral mucosa but may also affect other mucous membrane. It has higher prevalence in female patients of fourth to sixth decade of life with reticular being the commonest clinical variant. Clinical assessment, patient history, biopsy findings, and immunofluorescence were used to diagnose OLP. This study aimed to assess research publication trends in therapeutic strategies in the treatment of OLP, examining publication growth, country and institution contributions, and collaborative networks.

    METHODS: Using the Dimensions and Lens.org databases with Boolean operators combined the keywords a total of 40,046 peer-reviewed international publications were initially assessed. The article was selected from 2014 to December 2023. Through rigorous application of inclusion and exclusion criteria using an advanced search, a subset of 134 papers emerged to meet the high relevance standards. This subset, constituting a representative sample, was selected for in-depth bibliometric analysis.

    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The result shows a clear upward trend in the number of publications, with a notable increase in 2018. After 2018, there is decrease in the number of publications, but it has an upward trend, reaching a peak of 215 in 2022. Chaitanya Nallan CSK leads the list of authors with four publications and a respectable total citation count of 12. Cairo University is the leading institution in this data set, with the 8 number of publications and 11 citations. The analysis revealed that at the top of the list is the "Egyptian Dental Journal" from Egypt, with six publications, four citations, and a link strength of two. In the second position is "BMC Oral Health" from the United Kingdom, with five publications, one citation, and a link strength of three. This study offers valuable insights for future research, clinical practice, and policy decisions.

  15. Ahmed SZ, Khan AS, Alshehri M, Alsebaa F, Almutawah F, Mohammed Aljeshi M, et al.
    PeerJ, 2025;13:e18831.
    PMID: 39897486 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18831
    BACKGROUND: Teeth with small to moderate cavities can be repaired with enamel resin infiltrants, a form of dental restorative material. In dental materials, it is standard practice to include several filler particles for experimental use in dental resin infiltrates. The resin's BG particles penetrate the lesion and release ions that combine with saliva to provide a mineral-rich environment that can strengthen enamel and heal. This study aimed to compare resin infiltrants based on three types of bioactive glass materials and investigate the penetration depth, microleakage, and the effect of thermal and chemical aging.

    METHODOLOGY: A triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA)-based experimental resin infiltrate was prepared. Initial mixing was done manually for 1 h at room temperature, followed by another mix for 30 min on a magnetic stirrer. This prepared resin, called "PURE RESIN" was then further incorporated with three different types of bioactive glasses, i.e., Bioglass (45S5), boron-substituted (B-BG), and fluoride-substituted (F-BG). Initial manual mixing for 1 h, followed by ultrasonic mixing for 3 min and then proceeded for the final mixing on a magnetic stirrer for 24 h in a dark room at ambient temperature. Human-extracted teeth were demineralized, and the experimental resins were infiltrated on the demineralized surface. The surface area, pore size, and volume of the demineralized surface were measured. The microleakage and penetration depth were analyzed with the stereomicroscope and micro-CT, respectively. The samples were challenged with the pH cycle for 14 days, followed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Thermocycling (5,000 cycles) and chemical aging (4 weeks) were conducted, followed by microhardness, surface roughness, and SEM analyses. Statistical analyses were conducted after each test.

    RESULTS: The F-BG group achieved the highest initial and day 14 penetration coefficients. There was a superior dye penetration with the microleakage analysis in the F-BG group. The 45S5 group had the highest average penetration depth via micro-CT analysis. After thermocycling and chemical aging, the micro-hardness was reduced (non-significantly) among all samples except the F-BG group in post-chemical aging analysis, whereas the surface roughness was significantly increased. SEM images showed the presence of micro-pits on the surfaces after the thermal and chemical aging.

    CONCLUSION: The F-BG group achieved the highest initial and day 14 penetration coefficients. There was a superior dye penetration with the microleakage analysis in the F-BG group. The 45S5 group had the highest average penetration depth via micro-CT analysis. After thermocycling and chemical aging, the micro-hardness was reduced (non-significantly) among all samples except the F-BG group in post-chemical aging analysis, whereas the surface roughness was significantly increased. SEM images showed the presence of micro-pits on the surfaces after the thermal and chemical aging.

    MeSH terms: Composite Resins/chemistry; Dental Leakage; Dental Materials/chemistry; Humans; Materials Testing; Methacrylates/chemistry; Polymethacrylic Acids/chemistry; Surface Properties; Temperature; X-Ray Microtomography; In Vitro Techniques
  16. Yusoff NA, Abd Hamid Z, Budin SB, Taib IS
    PeerJ, 2025;13:e18854.
    PMID: 39897489 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18854
    Stem cells are special cells with the distinctive capability to self-renew, forming a new pool of undifferentiated stem cells. They are also able to differentiate into lineage-specific cell types that are specialized and matured. Thus, stem cells are considered as the building blocks of tissues and organs in which they reside. Among the many types of stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are the most studied adult stem cells and are considered as a promising source of cells for applications in the clinical and basic sciences. Historically, research on HSCs was initiated in the 1940s, where in a groundbreaking experiment, intravenously injected bone marrow (BM) cells prevented the death of irradiated mice by restoring blood cell production. Since then, HSCs have been studied and utilized in medical therapies and research for over several decades. Over time, more sophisticated tools have been developed to evaluate the behaviour of specifically purified subsets of hematopoietic cells that have the capacity to produce blood cells. One of the established tools is the colony-forming units (CFUs) assay. This assay facilitates the identification, enumeration, and analysis of colonies formed by differentiated hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) from myeloid, erythroid and lymphoid lineages. Hence, the CFUs assay is a fundamental in vitro platform that allows functional studies on the lineage potential of an individual HSPCs. The outcomes of such studies are crucial in providing critical insights into hematopoiesis. In this review, we explore the fundamental discoveries concerning the CFUs assay by covering the following aspects: (i) the historical overview of the CFUs assay for the study of clonal hematopoiesis involving multilineage potential of HSPCs, (ii) its use in various experimental models comprising humans, mice/rodents, zebrafish and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and (iii) research gaps and future direction concerning the role of CFUs assay in clinical and basic sciences. Overall, the CFUs assay confers a transformative platform for a better understanding of HSPCs biology in governing hematopoiesis.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Cell Differentiation; Colony-Forming Units Assay*; Humans; History, 20th Century; History, 21st Century; Mice
  17. Zamri HF, Mohd Ali MR, Sha'ari AII, Mohd Mazalan NH, Ahmad N, Nor Amdan NA, et al.
    MethodsX, 2025 Jun;14:103167.
    PMID: 39897649 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2025.103167
    Non-clinical pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PKPD) models are crucial in the initial design of drug-dosage regimens and in drug development but has rarely been employed for testing high-risk organisms due to stringent handling procedures. Burkholderia pseudomallei is classified as a Tier 1 select agent with international guidelines recommending this organism to be handled within a biosafety level 3 (BSL3) facility. Unfortunately, BSL3 facilities are not widely available in low-resource settings. This paper describes a detailed guide for setting up an in vitro pharmacodynamic infection model specific for testing B. pseudomallei outside BSL 3 laboratory. Briefly in this study,•All procedures involving active handling of live B. pseudomallei cultures were performed strictly inside a class II BSC in BSL-2 plus negative airflow laboratory.•The model was set to simulate B. pseudomallei-bacteremia treated with ceftazidime, a 1st-line anti-melioidosis drug with an approximate 2-hour half-life. Model validation was performed by simulating ceftazidime half-life.•For the pharmacodynamic study, ceftazidime was given as bolus injections at 8-hour intervals into the central culture chamber containing actively growing B. pseudomallei.
  18. Wei LS, Tahiluddin AB, Wee W
    Heliyon, 2025 Jan 30;11(2):e41914.
    PMID: 39897801 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e41914
    Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has emerged as a promising feed additive in aquaculture due to its reported benefits for fish health and growth. Possessing a range of bioactive compounds, ginger exhibits antimicrobial, anti-parasite, immunostimulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and growth-promoting properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent research on dietary ginger and its derivatives for fish. It explores the various forms, bioactive compounds, biological activities, and preparation methods of these feed additives. The discussion focuses on the impacts of dietary ginger and its derivatives on growth performance, flesh quality, hematology profile, antioxidative responses, immune system, and disease resistance stimulation in fish. Additionally, the review examines the mechanisms of action of these additives and explores the optimal supplementation levels for inclusion in fish diets. Previous studies reported the optimal doses of dietary ginger and its derivatives were ranged from 0.0002 to 4 % of diet whereas 0.0004 % for bathing treatment. Bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, zingerone, gingerols, shogaols, and paradols were responsible to the ginger and its derivatives beneficial effects. Overall, the findings suggest that dietary ginger and its derivatives hold significant promise for enhancing growth and health in fish farming.
  19. Li D, Noordin N, Ismail L, Cao D
    Heliyon, 2025 Jan 30;11(2):e42016.
    PMID: 39897805 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e42016
    This systematic review provides a comprehensive analysis of corpus-based instruction (CBI) in English as a foreign language (EFL) classroom. Corpus-based instruction is a teaching method based on actual data from natural language use, representing an important branch of corpus research. It serves as an auxiliary tool for foreign language teaching and is considered an effective instructional method. The researchers aim to thoroughly analyze the empirical studies on corpus-based instruction (CBI) in EFL classrooms, exploring research contexts, theoretical foundations, types of classroom activities, research methods, corpus tools, influencing factors, and the advantages and challenges of implementing CBI. It also proposes effective coping strategies. Following the PRISMA guidelines, the research team conducted an extensive search across four reputable databases-ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Wiley online Library, and the Web of Science-to identify empirical studies on Data-Driven Learning (DDL) and the use of corpora in language learning contexts from 2011 to 2024. A total of forty-four studies met the inclusion criteria for the final review. This systematic review underscores CBI's effectiveness in developing various English skills and promoting learner autonomy but also identifies key challenges, such as its focus on higher-level learners, the complexity of corpus use, and instructional limitations. The review suggests solutions like comprehensive training, simplified resources and tasks, personalized learning paths, and increased resource allocation. These strategies aim to enhance the effectiveness of CBI in EFL classrooms and improve language learning outcomes.
  20. Ramli FF, Rejeki PS, Ibrahim N', Abdullayeva G, Halim S
    Int J Med Sci, 2025;22(3):482-507.
    PMID: 39898237 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.99159
    Persistent methamphetamine use causes many toxic effects in various organs, including the brain, heart, liver, kidney and eyes. The extent of its toxicity depends on numerous pharmacological factors, including route of administration, dose, genetic polymorphism related to drug metabolism and polysubstance abuse. Several molecular pathways have been proposed to activate oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis: B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X (Bax)/Bcl2/caspase-3, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/p70S6K, trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1)/cAMP/lysyl oxidase, Sigmar1/ cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB)/mitochondrial fission-1 protein (Fis1), NADPH-Oxidase-2 (NOX-2), renal autophagy pathway, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/ protein kinase B (Akt)/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), Nupr1/Chop/P53/PUMA/Beclin1 and Toll-like receptor (TLR)4/MyD88/TRAF6 pathways. The activation promotes pathological changes, including the disruption of the blood-brain barrier, myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy, acute liver failure, acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, keratitis, retinopathy and vision loss. This review revisits the pharmacological profiles of methamphetamine and its effects on the brain, heart, liver, eyes, kidneys and endothelium. Understanding the mechanisms of methamphetamine toxicity is essential in developing treatment strategies to reverse or attenuate the progress of methamphetamine-associated organ damage.
    MeSH terms: Animals; Brain/drug effects; Brain/metabolism; Brain/pathology; Humans; Kidney/drug effects; Kidney/metabolism; Kidney/pathology; Liver/drug effects; Liver/metabolism; Liver/pathology; Signal Transduction/drug effects; Apoptosis/drug effects
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