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Fulltext Artificial intelligence-enabled monitoring of pesticide contamination in agricultural water systems: a comprehensive review of intelligent sensing technologies for water quality surveillance and environmental risk assessment

Khan H, Isnain S, Anas M, Alshahri AH, Saqib NU, Nawaz R, et al.

RSC Adv, 2026 Nov 03.
PMID: 42979572 DOI: 10.1039/d6ra07513d

Pesticide contamination in agricultural water systems threatens ecosystem health, water security, and sustainable agriculture. Conventional laboratory analyses are highly accurate but remain expensive, labor-intensive, and unsuitable for continuous field monitoring. This review summarizes recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled sensing technologies for the real-time detection of pesticides in irrigation water, rivers, reservoirs, drainage canals, and groundwater. It covers electrochemical sensors, biosensors, hyperspectral imaging, fluorescence spectroscopy, optical sensing, and microfluidic platforms integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) networks, edge computing, and cloud analytics. Particular emphasis is placed on machine learning, deep learning, explainable AI, federated learning, graph neural networks, and multimodal data fusion for contaminant detection, prediction, and risk assessment. The distinctive contribution of this review is providing a pesticide-specific source-to-decision framework that links hydrological transport and chemical transformation to matrix-conditioned sensor responses, AI-assisted signal interpretation, validation maturity, and field deployment, thereby identifying where intelligent analytics can provide a meaningful advantage for pesticide surveillance in agricultural water systems.
Fulltext All-Inside Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Achilles Allograft and Suture Tape Augmentation

Md Yusoff BAH, Zhafri A, Ramlan MKR, Nik Kamaruzman NKA, Omar A, Mohamad N, et al.

Arthrosc Tech, 2026 Nov 02.
PMID: 42974418 DOI: 10.1002/atn2.70351

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction is challenged by graft elongation and delayed biological integration, often necessitating slow rehabilitation and carrying a risk of arthrofibrosis. This technical report describes an all-inside technique augmented with the modified internal bracing to address these limitations. The technique involves integrating a FiberTape within a quadrupled Achilles tendon allograft, creating a load-sharing composite. An all-inside, retrograde socket method was used for anatomic PCL reconstruction in the knee, with suspensory fixation on both femur and tibia. The graft-tape construct was simultaneously tensioned. The technique provides immediate biomechanical stability by mitigating graft micromotion, elongation, and tunnel abrasion. By closely replicating native PCL stiffness, this construct facilitates an accelerated, protective rehabilitation protocol focused on early motion and quadriceps activation, thereby aiming to reduce failure rates and postoperative stiffness. This method represents a synergistic evolution in PCL reconstruction, combining synthetic reinforcement with biological healing.
Fulltext Black soldier fly larvae oil downregulated gene expression related to fat metabolism of broilers fed low protein diet

Anas MA, Aprianto MA, Sapan Y, Almira FN, Aldis RE, Atapattu NSBM, et al.

Poult Sci, 2025 Jan 20;104(4):104831.
PMID: 40101509 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2025.104831

Feeding low crude protein (LCP) diets supplemented with crystalline amino acids improves environmental and welfare parameters of broilers. However, increased body fat contents in broilers fed LCP diets have become a concern. Black soldier fly larvae oil (BSFLO), rich in lauric acid, has been reported to inhibit lipogenesis and reduce body fat. A 3 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of BSFLO on performance, blood biochemistry, carcass quality, fat metabolism gene expression, and litter quality in broilers fed protein-reduced diets. A total of 288 broilers were divided into 6 treatments: three CP levels (200, 185, or 170 g/kg; high [HCP], medium [MCP], or low [LCP]) and two oil sources (BSFLO and Crude Palm Oil [CPO]), with 6 replicate pens of 8 birds each. Results showed a 15 g/kg CP reduction had no effect on body weight and feed intake (P > 0.05) but increased FCR (P = 0.001). A 30 g/kg CP significantly reduced the body weight and feed intake with inferior FCR (P < 0.05). However, negative effect of low CP diets on FCR was mitigated by BSFLO (P = 0.008). Reducing CP by 30 g/kg increased fat pads (P = 0.033), whereas BSFLO reduced fat pads (P = 0.049) at all three CP levels. Protein-reduced diets increased blood cholesterol (P = 0.002), HDL (P < 0.001), and LDL (P = 0.002). BSFLO decreased blood triglyceride (P = 0.026) and cholesterol (P < 0.001). Reducing 30 g/kg CP increased meat cooking loss (P = 0.035), while BSFLO decreased cooking loss (P < 0.001). BSFLO increased meat protein (P < 0.001) and decreased cholesterol (P = 0.003). The inclusion of BSFLO in protein-reduced diet down-regulated the gene expression of FAS, ACC, SREBP-1, and HMGR in broilers (P < 0.001). Reducing CP levels decreased litter pH (P = 0.011), nitrogen (P < 0.001), ammonia (P < 0.001) and moisture (P = 0.018). The study concludes that BSFLO reduced body fat by down-regulating the lipogenesis gene expression. In addition, BSFLO enhanced feed efficiency in broilers fed protein-reduced diet.
Fulltext A Noninvasive Approach to Assess the Prevalence of and Factors Associated With Anemia Risk in Malaysian Children Under Three Years of Age: Cross-Sectional Study

Jalaludin MY, Kiau HB, Hasim S, Lee WK, Low A, Kazim NHN, et al.

JMIR Pediatr Parent, 2025 Mar 24;8:e58586.
PMID: 40127457 DOI: 10.2196/58586

BACKGROUND: Anemia remains a significant public health concern with adverse effects among children. Noninvasive screening assessments enable the early detection and prompt treatment of anemia. However, there is limited literature on the use of such screening assessments.
OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to assess the prevalence of and factors associated with being at risk of anemia among Malaysian children aged ≥6 months to ≤36 months by using a noninvasive hemoglobin assessment.
METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study (from July to December 2022) of outpatient Malaysian children, aged ≥6 months to ≤36 months, who were selected from five maternal-and-child health clinics by convenience sampling. At risk of anemia was defined as a total hemoglobin level of <12 g/dL, measured using the Masimo Rad-67, a noninvasive screening device for total hemoglobin levels. The χ2 and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to assess the prevalence and factors associated with being at risk of anemia, using R-Studio (version 4.0.0).
RESULTS: The study included 1201 participants, of whom 30% (95% CI 28-33) were at risk of anemia. Children aged 6-12 months (210/364, 57.7%, P12-36 months. However, weight-for-age (adjusted odds ratio=0.88; 95% CI 0.80-0.98) was associated with lower odds of being at risk of anemia.
CONCLUSIONS: The current study revealed a substantial prevalence of Malaysian children being at risk of developing anemia. The study results therefore imply a need for more community education and awareness on anemia, including nutrition education, as well as targeted community screening to enable the early detection and prompt treatment of anemia cases. Anemia reduction strategies in Malaysia should consider the highlighted factors indicative of higher risk of anemia.
Fulltext Comparing dual oral agents plus insulin vs. Triple oral agents in uncontrolled type II diabetes: A pilot study

Gul N, Rehman IU, Shah Y, Ali AM, Ali Z, Shehzad O, et al.

PLoS One, 2024;19(11):e0311435.
PMID: 39570934 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311435

INTRODUCTION: Type II Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients often do not achieve glycemic control with oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs). There are two main approaches to address this challenge: transitioning to a triple OHA regimen, or adding Insulin to the existing dual OHA regimen.
AIM: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of adding Insulin to dual OHAs (Sitagliptin + Metformin) against adding a third OHA to Sitagliptin + Metformin in achieving glycemic control among patients with uncontrolled T2DM.
METHOD: A pre-post study was conducted between 21 September 2023 and 21 December 2023 at Services Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan. Patients with uncontrolled T2DM with >7% HbA1c were divided into group 1 (Sitagliptin + Metformin plus a third OHA), and group 2 (Sitagliptin + Metformin plus pre-mixed Insulin 70/30). Glycemic control based on HbA1c values, fasting and random blood sugar levels, lipid profile, and body weight were evaluated after 3 months of therapy. The pre- and post- effect was compared by using a paired t-test.
RESULTS: The study included n = 80 patients with T2DM. Between groups 1 and 2, no significant difference was found in HbA1c values (9.1 vs. 9, with p = 0.724). However, BMI, cholesterol, and LDL significantly decreased in group 1 compared to group 2 (p<0.001 vs. p = 0.131, p = 0.023 vs. p = 0.896, and p = 0.003 vs. p = 0.395, respectively). Additionally, the incidence of hypoglycemic episodes was significantly lower in group 1 (7.5%) than in group 2 (47.5%, p = 0.004). No significant difference was observed between the triple OHA and dual OHA plus Insulin regimens in achieving glycemic control.
CONCLUSION: The triple OHA regimen improved BMI, cholesterol, and LDL levels, and reduced hypoglycemic episodes more effectively than dual OHA plus Insulin, despite similar HbA1c outcomes, suggesting it may be preferable for uncontrolled T2DM.
Visible wavelength interrogation of Kretschmann based SPR spectroscopy using polymeric ZnO quantum Dot layer for chloride detection

Abu Bakar MH, Othman MQ, Azeman NH, Mobarak NN, Daniyal WMEMM, Abdullah F, et al.

Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc, 2025 May 15;333:125872.
PMID: 39946857 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2025.125872

Applying visible-wavelength interrogation Kretschmann SPR spectroscopy technique using a polymeric ZnO-Quantum Dot PVA (pZnOQD) layer for chloride ion detection represents a significant advancement in photonic technology. This method streamlines the detection process while maintaining high sensitivity. Molecular analysis reveals subtle shifts in specific peaks of the ZnOQD spectrum after the interaction, suggesting chloride ion interaction with the active layer. Subsequent SPR analysis confirms these findings, showing wavelength shifts in SPR peaks between 630 - 660 nm across different chloride ion concentrations. This technique demonstrates exceptional sensitivity, detecting chloride ion concentrations from 1.0 to 20.0 ppm, with two distinct sensitivity ranges (1.0 - 4.0 ppm and 4.0 - 20.0 ppm) and corresponding values of 1.7221 (R2 = 0.998) and 0.627 nm/ppm (R2 = 0.992), respectively. These results are comparable, with a low detection limit of 0.3 ppm. Experimental data fitting well with the Sips model yields an R2 value of 0.995 and a binding affinity of 3.876 × 102M-1, providing valuable insights for sensor development. This integrated analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of chloride ion interactions with the pZnOQD sensing layer, paving the way for advanced optical spectroscopy using quantum dots.
Fulltext Antimicrobial resistance in Malaysia: a cross-sectional study analysing trends and economic impacts

Ar MNA, Binti Wan Puteh SE, Ibrahim R, Rahman MM, Abdul Karim Z, Bin Ali FZ, et al.

BMJ Open, 2025 Feb 13;15(2):e091687.
PMID: 39947822 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091687

OBJECTIVE: This national study assessed the economic impact of treating patients with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) pathogens within Malaysia's Ministry of Health (MoH) hospitals.
DESIGN: A cross-sectional study design and top-down costing approach, analysing Malaysian diagnosis-related group (DRG) data for AMR patients admitted to MoH hospitals from 2017 to 2020.
SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: A total of 1190 cases were identified using International Statistical Classification of Diseases-10 version 2010 codes for AMR pathogens.
OUTCOME MEASURES: The study aims to estimate direct healthcare costs for treating AMR patients. Costs per admission were calculated based on each patient's length of stay (LOS). A binary logistic regression model identified cost determinants, with significant factors (p<0.05) further analysed using a multivariate multiple logistic regression. ORs with 95% CIs were determined, and treatment costs were categorised as above or below the annual national base rate.
RESULTS: Findings showed that costs are influenced by the volume of cases identified through DRG codes and LOS, which averaged between 21.7 and 36.4 days. Median admission costs for AMR patients ranged from RM12 476.28 (IQR RM 15 655.93) to RM19 295.11 (IQR RM20 200.28). Both LOS and total costs increased annually, from RM3 711 046.10 in 2017 to RM9 700 249.08 in 2019. Patients over 56 years old and those with severity levels II and III were more likely exceeding the national base rate.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings, explaining 9.3% of the variance in the regression model, can inform policies to reduce the economic burden of AMR and improve patient outcomes, highlighting the need for a comprehensive strategy to address this global health threat.
Fulltext A simple and cost-effective extraction for piscine environmental DNA metabarcoding using guanidine hydrochloride method

Amin MHF, Kim HW, Then AY, Oktavitri NI, Kim AR, Lee SR, et al.

MethodsX, 2024 Dec;13:103020.
PMID: 39583998 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2024.103020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is a valuable tool for assessing aquatic biodiversity, but the high cost and complexity of DNA extraction pose challenges for widespread adoption, especially in developing countries. This study presents a cost-effective eDNA extraction method using a guanidine hydrochloride (GuHCl) buffer, proteinase-K digestion, and isopropanol precipitation to improve the detection of fish communities. Comparison with the Qiagen DNeasy Blood & Tissue Kit using MiFish universal primers showed that the GuHCl protocol detected more fish species in freshwater samples, with comparable performance in relative read abundance metrics. However, the GuHCl method exhibited higher PCR inhibition in brackish samples, likely due to salinity and natural inhibitors. The results suggest that the GuHCl-based method is a viable alternative, offering enhanced sensitivity for low-abundance species in freshwater samples and cost savings. This protocol facilitates large-scale eDNA metabarcoding for ecological studies and conservation management efforts.•The GuHCl protocol identified a greater diversity of fish species in freshwater samples than the Qiagen kit, but detected fewer species in brackish water samples.•Both extraction methods demonstrated robust positive correlations in metrics of relative read abundance.
Exploration of underutilized chayote fractions following drying and extraction

Hussain A, Gorsi FI, Ali MQ, Yaqub S, Asif A, Bibi B, et al.

Food Chem, 2025 Feb 15;465(Pt 2):142129.
PMID: 39579399 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.142129

Valorizing neglected crop byproducts through eco-friendly techniques has gained attention as underutilized crops offer new sources of bioactive components. This study examined the chemical composition, phytochemicals, and antioxidant activities in six fractions of the underutilized chayote (Sechium edule). Each fraction was microwave-dried and extracted with ultrasound assistance. Shoots were high in ash and fiber, while pulp had high moisture and carbohydrates, and seeds were rich in fat and protein. Shoots, leaves, roots, and peels had high mineral levels, particularly Ca, K, Mg, P, Fe, and Zn. Shoots were also high in phenolics, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid, while leaves had a high carotenoid content. Polyphenol compounds such as myricetin and catechin were abundant in shoots, which exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. Chayote shoots, roots, and leaves are abundant in bioactive compounds that can be utilized in food and, therefore, offers an opportunity for utilization of a currently neglected plant byproduct.
Liposomal topical drug administration surpasses alternative methods in glaucoma therapeutics: a novel paradigm for enhanced treatment

Nordin NA, Sadikan MZ, Lambuk L, Hashim S, Airuddin S, Mohd Nasir NA, et al.

J Pharm Pharmacol, 2025 Apr 03;77(4):475-491.
PMID: 39579384 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgae129

OBJECTIVES: Glaucoma is a leading cause of permanent blindness. Despite therapeutic advancements, glaucoma management remains challenging due to limitations of conventional drug delivery, primarily topical eye drops, resulting in suboptimal outcomes and a global surge in cases. To address these issues, liposomal drug delivery has emerged as a promising approach.
KEY FINDINGS: This review explores the potential of liposomal-based medications, with a particular focus on topical administration as a superior alternative to enhance therapeutic efficacy and improve patient compliance compared to existing treatments. This writing delves into the therapeutic prospects of liposomal formulations across different administration routes, as evidenced by ongoing clinical trials. Additionally, critical aspects of liposomal production and market strategies are discussed herein.
SUMMARY: By overcoming ocular barriers and optimizing drug delivery, liposomal topical administration holds the key to significantly improving glaucoma treatment outcomes.
Fulltext Non-Contrast MRI Sequences for Ischemic Stroke: A Concise Overview for Clinical Radiologists

Bachtiar NA, Murtala B, Muis M, Ilyas MI, Abdul Hamid HB, As'ad S, et al.

Vasc Health Risk Manag, 2024;20:521-531.
PMID: 39618686 DOI: 10.2147/VHRM.S474143

Ischemic stroke is the second leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Due to the urgency of implementing immediate therapy, acute stroke necessitates prompt diagnosis. The current gold standards for vascular imaging in stroke include computed tomography angiography (CTA), digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). However, the contrast agents used in these methods can be costly and pose risks for patients with renal impairment or allergies. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of current MRI techniques and sequences for evaluating ischemic stroke, emphasizing the importance of non-contrast options and their clinical implications for radiologists in the diagnosis and management of ischemic stroke. Standard MRI sequences-such as T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), DWI-FLAIR mismatch, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)-are essential for determining infarct location, volume, and age. Additionally, incorporating susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) sequence aids in identifying signs of hemorrhagic transformation within the infarcted region. Advanced techniques like arterial spin labeling (ASL) can serve as a non-contrast alternative for mapping cerebral blood flow (CBF) and allowing for comparison between infarcted and healthy brain areas. Adding ASL to the routine sequence allows ASL-DWI mismatch analysis that is useful for quantifying salvageable tissue volume and facilitate timely recanalization, while time-of-flight (TOF) MRA and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) help assess venous thrombosis, stenosis, or arterial occlusions. Finally, MR spectroscopy can provide insights into critical brain metabolites, including N-acetylaspartate (NAA), and lactate (Lac) to determine patient prognosis. Current MRI technology provides a myriad of sequence options for the comprehensive evaluation of ischemic stroke without the need for contrast material. A thorough understanding of the advantages and limitations of each sequence is crucial for its optimal implementation in diagnosis and treatment.
Fulltext Impact of pharmacist-led medication review among hemodialysis patients: a systematic review

Paneerselvam GS, Kah Yee C, Farrukh MJ, Yuda A, Hermansyah A, Mohd Asmani MF, et al.

J Pharm Policy Pract, 2025;18(1):2446912.
PMID: 39911588 DOI: 10.1080/20523211.2024.2446912

BACKGROUND: Medication-related problems (DRPs) are common among hemodialysis (HD) patients, and pharmacist-led medication reviews have been shown to address such issues. However, the impact of these interventions and the specific types of DRPs among this patient group remain unclear.
OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aimed to assess the impact of pharmacist-led medication reviews among HD patients, identify the most prevalent types of DRPs, and explore the factors associated with these problems.
METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across databases such as Medline via PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and EBSCOHost, for studies published from January 2012 to July 2023. Studies included were those focusing on pharmacist interventions in HD patients. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate the quality of selected studies.
RESULTS: After screening 343 articles, 10 studies (involving 1342 HD patients) were included. Nine studies were rated as high quality, and one as fair quality. The studies predominantly used prospective designs. A total of 4511 DRPs were identified, with suboptimal drug treatment, non-adherence to medications, and drug use without indication being the most common issues. Pharmacist interventions led to the resolution or reduction of DRPs, shorter hospital stays, improvement in laboratory outcomes, better quality of life (QoL), and enhanced patient understanding. However, interventions had minimal or no significant impact on reducing unplanned admissions, mortality rates, or improving medication adherence. The reduction in healthcare utilisation costs was inconsistent across studies.
CONCLUSION: Pharmacist-led medication reviews were effective in resolving DRPs and improving clinical outcomes in HD patients, such as quality of life and lab values. However, their impact on healthcare utilisation and mortality remains inconclusive. Further research with longer follow-up is needed to assess the long-term economic outcomes of these interventions.
New host record and redescription of Amblyomma cordiferum nymphs and larvae infesting Malaysian house rats (Rattus rattus diardii) in Peninsular Malaysia, with molecular evidence of Rickettsia, Borrelia, and Bartonella

Kazim AR, Nasir DM, Tan TK, Yin VW, Noh AAM, Heo CC, et al.

Acta Trop, 2025 Jan;261:107496.
PMID: 39667694 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107496

Nymphal and larval Amblyomma cordiferum ticks, a relatively rare species, were collected from the Malaysian house rat (Rattus rattus diardii) in Peninsular Malaysia. Redescription and molecular analysis of nymphs and larvae, based on the 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and COI genes, revealed divergence from A. cordiferum in Taiwan, suggesting that the Taiwanese tick specimens may represent a different taxon. Molecular analysis of the pathogens in these specimens revealed three sequences of Rickettsia closely related or identical to Rickettsia raoultii (99.71-100%), two sequences of relapsing fever Borrelia identical to Borrelia theileri, and four sequences of Bartonella identical to Bartonella phoceensis. This study also identifies a new host record for A. cordiferum in R. r. diardii and reports the first detection of Rickettsia, Borrelia, and Bartonella in this tick species.
Fulltext Topological radiogenomics based on persistent lifetime images for identification of epidermal growth factor receptor mutation in patients with non-small cell lung tumors

Kodama T, Arimura H, Tokuda T, Tanaka K, Yabuuchi H, Gowdh NFM, et al.

Comput Biol Med, 2025 Feb;185:109519.
PMID: 39667057 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.109519

We hypothesized that persistent lifetime (PLT) images could represent tumor imaging traits, locations, and persistent contrasts of topological components (connected and hole components) corresponding to gene mutations such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutant signs. We aimed to develop a topological radiogenomic approach using PLT images to identify EGFR mutation-positive patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The PLT image was newly proposed to visualize the locations and persistent contrasts of the topological components for a sequence of binary images with consecutive thresholding of an original computed tomography (CT) image. This study employed 226 NSCLC patients (94 mutant and 132 wildtype patients) with pretreatment contrast-enhanced CT images obtained from four datasets from different countries for training and testing prediction models. Two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) PLT images were assumed to characterize specific imaging traits (e.g., air bronchogram sign, cavitation, and ground glass nodule) of EGFR-mutant tumors. Seven types of machine learning classification models were constructed to predict EGFR mutations with significant features selected from 2D-PLT, 3D-PLT, and conventional radiogenomic features. Among the means and standard deviations of the test areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of all radiogenomic approaches in a four-fold cross-validation test, the 2D-PLT features showed the highest AUC with the lowest standard deviation of 0.927 ± 0.08. The best radiogenomic approaches with the highest AUC were the random forest model trained with the Betti number (BN) map features (AUC = 0.984) in the internal test and the adapting boosting model trained with the BN map features (AUC = 0.717) in the external test. PLT features can be used as radiogenomic imaging biomarkers for the identification of EGFR mutation status in patients with NSCLC.
Fulltext Identification and validation of hub genes associated with biotic and abiotic stresses by modular gene co-expression analysis in Oryza sativa L

Razalli II, Abdullah-Zawawi MR, Zainal Abidin RA, Harun S, Che Othman MH, Ismail I, et al.

Sci Rep, 2025 Mar 12;15(1):8465.
PMID: 40069264 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-92942-5

Rice, a staple food consumed by half of the world's population, is severely affected by the combined impact of abiotic and biotic stresses, with the former causing increased susceptibility of the plant to pathogens. Four microarray datasets for drought, salinity, tungro virus, and blast pathogen were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. A modular gene co-expression (mGCE) analysis was conducted, followed by gene set enrichment analysis to evaluate the upregulation of module activity across different stress conditions. Over-representation analysis was conducted to determine the functional association of each gene module with stress-related processes and pathways. The protein-protein interaction network of mGCE hub genes was constructed, and the Maximal Clique Centrality (MCC) algorithm was applied to enhance precision in identifying key genes. Finally, genes implicated in both abiotic and biotic stress responses were validated using RT-qPCR. A total of 11, 12, 46, and 14 modules containing 85, 106, 253, and 143 hub genes were detected in drought, salinity, tungro virus, and blast. Modular genes in drought were primarily enriched in response to heat stimulus and water deprivation, while salinity-related genes were enriched in response to external stimuli. For the tungro virus and blast pathogen, enrichment was mainly observed in the defence and stress responses. Interestingly, RPS5, PKG, HSP90, HSP70, and MCM were consistently present in abiotic and biotic stresses. The DEG analysis revealed the upregulation of MCM under the tungro virus and downregulation under blast and drought in resistant rice, indicating its role in viral resistance. HSP70 showed no changes, while HSP90 was upregulated in susceptible rice during blast and drought. PKG increased during drought but decreased in japonica rice under salinity. RPS5 was highly upregulated during blast in both resistant and susceptible rice. The RT-qPCR analysis showed that all five hub genes were upregulated in all treatments, indicating their role in stress responses and potential for crop improvement.
Fulltext Viral contamination in cell culture: analyzing the impact of Epstein Barr virus and Ovine Herpesvirus 2

Bastawecy IM, Abdelmonem M, Afify AF, Saad N, Shirosaki Y, Abdullah CAC, et al.

Front Microbiol, 2025;16:1442321.
PMID: 40071201 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1442321

Cell culture techniques are increasingly favored over animal models due to rising costs, time constraints, and ethical concerns regarding animal use. These techniques serve critical roles in disease modeling, drug screening, drug discovery, and toxicity analysis. Notably, cell cultures facilitate primary virus isolation, infectivity assays, biochemical studies, and vaccine production. However, viral contamination in cell cultures poses significant challenges, particularly due to the necessity for complex and sophisticated detection methods. Among the prevalent viruses, Epstein Barr virus (EBV) is ubiquitous across human populations, infecting approximately 98% of individuals. Despite its prevalence, the detection of EBV is often not considered a safety priority, as its detection methods are well-established, including PCR assays that can identify both active and latent forms of the virus. Conversely, ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2), a relative of EBV, presents a critical concern due to its ability to infect a wide range of organs and species, including over 33 animal species and nearly all domestic sheep. This makes the detection of OvHV-2 crucial for the safety of cell cultures across various species. The literature reveals a gap in the comprehensive understanding of both EBV and OvHv-2 detection in cell culture systems, highlighting an urgent need for developing robust detection methodologies specific to EBV and OvHv-2 to ensure bioprocess safety.
Fulltext A systematic scoping review of the multifaceted role of phoenixin in metabolism: insights from in vitro and in vivo studies

Muzammil AN, Barathan M, Yazid MD, Sulaiman N, Makpol S, Mohamed Ibrahim N, et al.

Front Endocrinol (Lausanne), 2024;15:1406531.
PMID: 39398330 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1406531

Phoenixin (PNX) is an emerging neuropeptide that plays a significant role in regulating metabolism and reproduction. This comprehensive review examines findings from human, in vivo, and in vitro studies to elucidate the functions of PNX in metabolic processes. PNX has been identified as a key player in essential metabolic pathways, including energy homeostasis, glucose, lipid and electrolyte metabolism, and mitochondrial dynamics. It modulates food and fluid intake, influences glucose and lipid profiles, and affects mitochondrial biogenesis and function. PNX is abundantly expressed in the hypothalamus, where it plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive hormone secretion and maintaining energy balance. Furthermore, PNX is also expressed in peripheral tissues such as the heart, spleen, and pancreas, indicating its involvement in the regulation of metabolism across central and peripheral systems. PNX is a therapeutic peptide that operates through the G protein-coupled receptor 173 (GPR173) at the molecular level. It activates signaling pathways such as cAMP-protein kinase A (PKA) and Epac-ERK, which are crucial for metabolic regulation. Research suggests that PNX may be effective in managing metabolic disorders like obesity and type 2 diabetes, as well as reproductive health issues like infertility. Since metabolic processes are closely linked to reproduction, further understanding of PNX's role in these areas is necessary to develop effective management/treatments. This review aims to highlight PNX's involvement in metabolism and identify gaps in current knowledge regarding its impact on human health. Understanding the mechanisms of PNX's action is crucial for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of metabolic disorders and reproductive health issues, which are significant public health concerns globally.
Fulltext Anterior Mediastinal Mass Mimicking Supravalvular Pulmonary Stenosis With Systolic Murmur

Azizee MF, Hussin SA, Mohamad Jamali AA, Hussain AH, Mamat AZ, Marzuki A, et al.

JACC Case Rep, 2025 Feb 19;30(4):102576.
PMID: 39972715 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2024.102576

Pulmonary stenosis can occur as an isolated valvular lesion associated with congenital structural cardiac anomalies. Rarely, patients may develop an acquired form of pulmonary stenosis. We report a case of a rare presentation of anterior mediastinal teratoma mimicking congenital valvular heart disease, with complete resolution of her symptoms postoperatively.
Fulltext Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal and aromatic plants used by the population of Settat Province, Morocco

Lahyaoui M, Dakka N, El Menyiy N, Sobeh M, Razi P, Goh KW, et al.

Heliyon, 2025 Feb 15;11(3):e42323.
PMID: 39991244 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e42323

To promote Morocco's medicinal and aromatic plants, an ethnobotanical study was conducted in the Settat Province, part of the Casablanca-Settat region, Morocco. The methodology employed in this study involved a direct, oral survey conducted with 30 herbalists from various villages in the Settat province, after obtaining their informed consent. Additionally, an online survey was distributed, to which 212 individuals from the local population, representing different age groups, responded. The sample size was chosen to ensure a confidence level of 88 %. The results provided a database on the modes of use, plant parts utilized, treated pathologies, and recommended dosages for 51 medicinal and aromatic plants from the Settat province and enabled us to calculate their Familiarity Index (FI). The data collected showed that the Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, and Fabaceae families are the most represented. The calculated Familiarity Index indicated that the most commonly used species were Verbena, Pimpinella anisum L., and Origanum vulgare, with Familiarity Index of 0.22, 0.22, and 0.18, respectively. The most frequently utilized plant part was the leaves, and 70.59 % of respondents preferred drying the plants before preparing them as infusions or decoctions. The results highlighted the primary ailments treated with these plants, such as diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, oral conditions, cancers, insomnia, and stress. Additionally, the study referenced traditional medicinal uses from various national studies and international scientific research that validated the therapeutic properties of each plant.
Prevalence and associated factors of caregiving burden among caregivers of adults with epilepsy in Malaysia - A cross-sectional study

Mohd Ismail I, Khoo CS, Ibrahim L, Ong MJY, Tan HJ, Hod R, et al.

Epilepsy Behav, 2025 Feb;163:110244.
PMID: 39740259 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.110244

BACKGROUND: There are still insufficient data on caregiver burden among caregivers of adult people with epilepsy (PWE), particularly in Malaysia. This study aims to explore the level of perceived caregiver burden among the informal caregivers caring for PWE, its predicting factors associated with caregiver burden, and the impact of this caregiver burden on their psychological health.
METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, caregivers of adult PWE attending the neurology outpatient clinic at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM) completed a comprehensive questionnaire comprising demographic data of participants and care recipients (adult PWE). Epilepsy-related data were obtained from the interview and medical records. Affiliate stigma among caregivers was assessed using Affiliate Stigma Scale (ASS), and psychological impacts were evaluated using Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21). The level of caregiver burden was evaluated with Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI).
RESULTS: A total of 119 caregivers participated in the study, and 35.2 % of them reported mild to moderate burden. The factors most strongly associated with higher caregiver burden were female caregivers, needs for assistance in activities of daily living (ADL), frequent seizures, polypharmacy, and affiliate stigma among caregivers. A statistically significant positive correlation was seen between caregiver burden and psychological impacts of depression (r 0.522, p

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