1.Standardization Challenges in Outcome Evaluation Systems of Animal Experiments and Considerations for Core Outcome Set Construction Strategies
Qingyong ZHENG ; Yongjia ZHOU ; Tengfei LI ; Jianguo XU ; Chen TIAN ; Hui LIU ; Min TIAN ; Ziyu ZHOU ; Caihua XU ; Yating CUI ; Junfei WANG ; Jinhui TIAN
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2026;46(1):138-148
Animal experimentation constitutes a critical link between basic research and clinical application, making its research quality and translational efficiency paramount. Although considerable progress has been made in standardizing operational procedures and ethical guidelines, the standardization of outcome evaluation systems has significantly lagged, creating a key bottleneck that constrains the quality of biomedical research and evidence synthesis. This deficiency is manifested by pronounced heterogeneity in outcome selection across similar studies, incomplete methodological reporting, and disparate criteria for result interpretation, which severely impairs the comparability of findings and the evidence integration. To cope with this challenge, this paper systematically introduces a mature methodological tool from clinical research–the core outcome set (COS)–and explores its construction strategies and application potential in the field of animal experimentation. Given the extensive diversity of animal experiments, a pragmatic strategy of "focusing on key areas, implementing phased pilots, and promoting gradual expansion" should be adopted. This approach prioritizes the development of domain-specific COS for disease areas characterized by high research volume, urgent translational needs, and well-established animal models. A multi-source integration pathway for COS development is detailed, comprising systematic literature searches, methodological appraisals, and expert consensus, with the feasibility of leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency also being examined. The development and promotion of such COS are not intended to restrict scientific exploration; rather, they aim to establish a new, tiered evaluation paradigm consisting of "core outcomes" (mandatory), "recommended outcomes" (encouraged), and "exploratory outcomes" (optional). This framework is expected not only to enhance research quality through standardization and to adhere to the "3R" principles but also to accelerate the accumulation of high-quality evidence. This, in turn, provides a solid foundation for higher-level evidence synthesis, ultimately facilitating the effective translation of basic research findings into clinical practice and providing an essential methodological framework for scientific advancement in relevant disciplines.
2.Attitude and Motivation Influence the Research Performance among Academicians at Malaysian Research University
Nurul Fatin Malek Rivan ; Suzana Shahar ; Norhayati Ibrahim ; Devinder Kaur Ajit Singh ; Wan Syafira Ishak ; Ruszymah Idrus ; Ishak Ahmad ; Melor Md Yunus ; Hatta Sidi ; Ahmad Kamal Arifin ; Adi Irfan Che An ; Neoh Hui-Min ; Roszalina Ramli ; Kuik Cheng Chwee ; Nur Faizah Abu Bakar ; Noor Shahida Sukiman
Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;24(No. 1):18-28
Despite publishing and securing research grants being obligatory in research universities, the literature on the
factors influencing academic productivity is relatively scarce. Thus, in this study, we aimed to determine the
personal and behavioural-related factors that influence the culture of publishing and securing research grants
among academicians with lower research-related performance. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 49
academic staff members of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). A self-administered questionnaire consisting
of personal, attitude and behavioural (barriers, perceived stress scale, work extrinsic and intrinsic motivation
scale, psychological well-being scale, and basic needs satisfaction scale) questions were distributed during a
workshop and online. Simple linear regression (SLR) analyses were performed for each variable, followed by
multiple linear regression (MLR) to identify the associated factors of research output. After adjusting for covariates,
having a doctoral degree (β=0.396, 95% CI=0.221-2.146, p<0.05) and integrated regulation (β=0.574, 95%
CI=0.036-3.612, p<0.05) were found to be associated with research grant acquisition (R2=0.273). Moreover,
increasing age (β=0.426, 95% CI=0.088-0.397, p<0.05), living alone (β=0.331, 95% CI=0.944-6.626, p<0.05),
having a doctoral degree (β=0.248, 95% CI=0.174-6.747, p<0.05), environmental mastery (β=0.318, 95%
CI=0.013-0.347, p<0.05), self-acceptance (β=0.284, 95% CI=0.010-0.242, p<0.05), satisfaction incompetence
(β=0.273, 95% CI=0.001-0.200, p<0.05) and relatedness (β=0.280, 95% CI=0.001-0.116, p<0.05) were found to
be the factors that influence the publications produced among participants (R2
=0.423). The findings of this study
could be used by management to formulate effective strategies to increase the productivity of academics in their
research-related performance.
3.Identification of core genes of osteoarthritis by bioinformatics
Xuekun ZHU ; Heng LIU ; Hui FENG ; Yunlong GAO ; Lei WEN ; Xiaosong CAI ; Ben ZHAO ; Min ZHONG
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2025;29(3):637-644
BACKGROUND:At present,osteoarthritis has become a major disease affecting the quality of life of the elderly,and the therapeutic effect is poor,often focusing on preventing the disease process,and the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis is still not fully understood.Bioinformatics analysis was carried out to explore the main pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and related mechanisms of gene coding regulation. OBJECTIVE:To screen core differential genes with a major role in osteoarthritis by gene expression profiling. METHODS:Datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO):GSE114007,GSE117999,and GSE129147.Differential genes in the GSE114007 and GSE117999 data collections were screened using R software,performing differential genes to weighted gene co-expression network analysis.The module genes most relevant to osteoarthritis were selected to perform protein interaction analysis.Candidate core genes were selected using the cytocape software.The candidate core genes were subsequently subjected to least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and COX analysis to identify the core genes with a key role in osteoarthritis.The accuracy of the core genes was validated using an external dataset,GSE129147. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)A total of 477 differential genes were identified,265 differential genes associated with osteoarthritis were obtained by weighted gene co-expression network analysis,and 8 candidate core genes were identified.The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis finally yielded a differential gene ASPM with core value that was externally validated.(2)It is concluded that abnormal gene ASPM expression screened by bioinformatics plays a key central role in osteoarthritis.
4.Pharmaceutical care for a patient with empagliflozin-induced euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis
Lili YANG ; Qi LI ; Hui WANG ; Ruilong GAO ; Min MAO
China Pharmacy 2025;36(2):214-218
OBJECTIVE To provide a reference for the pharmaceutical care of a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) who developed euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (euDKA) after taking empagliflozin. METHODS Clinical pharmacists provided pharmaceutical care for a patient with T2DM and LGMD who developed euDKA after taking empagliflozin. According to the patient’s recent use of medications and his conditions, clinical pharmacists assessed the correlation between euDKA and empagliflozin as “very likely”. As to euDKA, clinical pharmacists suggested discontinuing empagliflozin and metformin, and giving intravenous infusion of 10% Glucose injection instead of 5% Glucose injection for fluid resuscitation. Clinical pharmacists monitored the patient’s laboratory indicators such as arterial blood gas analysis, blood/urine ketones and electrolytes. They assisted physicians to decide when to stop intravenous supplements of liquid and insulin. Clinical pharmacists also assisted physicians to adjust the antidiabetic drugs and educated the patient to avoid empagliflozin or other sodium- glucose linked transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i). RESULTS Physicians adopted the suggestions of clinical pharmacists. After treatment, the patient’s condition improved, and he was allowed to be discharged with medication. CONCLUSIONS euDKA is a relatively rare and serious adverse reaction associated with SGLT2i, and the patients with LGMD are susceptible to euDKA. Clinical pharmacists assist physicians in developing personalized medication plans by evaluating the association between euDKA and empagliflozin, adjusting medication regimens,conducting pharmaceutical monitoring,and other pharmaceutical services. Meanwhile, they provide medication education to patients to ensure their medication safety.
5.Pharmaceutical care for a patient with empagliflozin-induced euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis
Lili YANG ; Qi LI ; Hui WANG ; Ruilong GAO ; Min MAO
China Pharmacy 2025;36(2):214-218
OBJECTIVE To provide a reference for the pharmaceutical care of a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) who developed euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (euDKA) after taking empagliflozin. METHODS Clinical pharmacists provided pharmaceutical care for a patient with T2DM and LGMD who developed euDKA after taking empagliflozin. According to the patient’s recent use of medications and his conditions, clinical pharmacists assessed the correlation between euDKA and empagliflozin as “very likely”. As to euDKA, clinical pharmacists suggested discontinuing empagliflozin and metformin, and giving intravenous infusion of 10% Glucose injection instead of 5% Glucose injection for fluid resuscitation. Clinical pharmacists monitored the patient’s laboratory indicators such as arterial blood gas analysis, blood/urine ketones and electrolytes. They assisted physicians to decide when to stop intravenous supplements of liquid and insulin. Clinical pharmacists also assisted physicians to adjust the antidiabetic drugs and educated the patient to avoid empagliflozin or other sodium- glucose linked transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i). RESULTS Physicians adopted the suggestions of clinical pharmacists. After treatment, the patient’s condition improved, and he was allowed to be discharged with medication. CONCLUSIONS euDKA is a relatively rare and serious adverse reaction associated with SGLT2i, and the patients with LGMD are susceptible to euDKA. Clinical pharmacists assist physicians in developing personalized medication plans by evaluating the association between euDKA and empagliflozin, adjusting medication regimens,conducting pharmaceutical monitoring,and other pharmaceutical services. Meanwhile, they provide medication education to patients to ensure their medication safety.
6.Pre-Treatment Perceived Social Support Is Associated With Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Breast Cancer: A Longitudinal Study
Joon Sung SHIN ; Sanghyup JUNG ; Geun Hui WON ; Sun Hyung LEE ; Jaehyun KIM ; Saim JUNG ; Chan-Woo YEOM ; Kwang-Min LEE ; Kyung-Lak SON ; Jang-il KIM ; Sook Young JEON ; Han-Byoel LEE ; Bong-Jin HAHM
Psychiatry Investigation 2025;22(4):424-434
Objective:
Previous studies have reported an association between cancer-related symptoms and perceived social support (PSS). The objective of this study was to analyze whether Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN), a prevalent side effect of chemotherapy, varies according to PSS level using a validated tool for CIPN at prospective follow-up.
Methods:
A total of 39 breast cancer patients were evaluated for PSS using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) prior to chemotherapy and were subsequently grouped into one of two categories for each subscale: low-to-moderate PSS and high PSS. CIPN was prospectively evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy 20 (CIPN20) at five time points. A linear mixed-effects model with square root transformation was employed to investigate whether the CIPN20 scales varied by PSS level and time point.
Results:
Statistical analysis of the MSPSS total scale and subscales revealed a significant effect of the friends subscale group and time point on the CIPN20 sensory scale. The sensory scale score of CIPN20 was found to be lower in participants with high PSS from friends in comparison to those with low-to-moderate PSS at 1 month post-chemotherapy (p=0.010).
Conclusion
This is the first study to prospectively follow the long-term effect of pre-treatment PSS from friends on CIPN. Further studies based on larger samples are required to analyze the effects of PSS on the pathophysiology of CIPN.
7.Four new sesquiterpenoids from the roots of Atractylodes macrocephala
Gang-gang ZHOU ; Jia-jia LIU ; Ji-qiong WANG ; Hui LIU ; Zhi-Hua LIAO ; Guo-wei WANG ; Min CHEN ; Fan-cheng MENG
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2025;60(1):179-184
The chemical constituents in dried roots of
8.Pre-Treatment Perceived Social Support Is Associated With Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Breast Cancer: A Longitudinal Study
Joon Sung SHIN ; Sanghyup JUNG ; Geun Hui WON ; Sun Hyung LEE ; Jaehyun KIM ; Saim JUNG ; Chan-Woo YEOM ; Kwang-Min LEE ; Kyung-Lak SON ; Jang-il KIM ; Sook Young JEON ; Han-Byoel LEE ; Bong-Jin HAHM
Psychiatry Investigation 2025;22(4):424-434
Objective:
Previous studies have reported an association between cancer-related symptoms and perceived social support (PSS). The objective of this study was to analyze whether Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN), a prevalent side effect of chemotherapy, varies according to PSS level using a validated tool for CIPN at prospective follow-up.
Methods:
A total of 39 breast cancer patients were evaluated for PSS using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) prior to chemotherapy and were subsequently grouped into one of two categories for each subscale: low-to-moderate PSS and high PSS. CIPN was prospectively evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy 20 (CIPN20) at five time points. A linear mixed-effects model with square root transformation was employed to investigate whether the CIPN20 scales varied by PSS level and time point.
Results:
Statistical analysis of the MSPSS total scale and subscales revealed a significant effect of the friends subscale group and time point on the CIPN20 sensory scale. The sensory scale score of CIPN20 was found to be lower in participants with high PSS from friends in comparison to those with low-to-moderate PSS at 1 month post-chemotherapy (p=0.010).
Conclusion
This is the first study to prospectively follow the long-term effect of pre-treatment PSS from friends on CIPN. Further studies based on larger samples are required to analyze the effects of PSS on the pathophysiology of CIPN.
9.Impact of Physical and Cognitive Frailty on Long-Term Mortality in Older Patients undergoing Elective Non-cardiac Surgery
Min-Jie LOW ; Zhen Yi LIAU ; Jun Leong CHEONG ; Pui San LOH ; Ina Ismiarti SHARIFFUDDIN ; Hui Min KHOR
Annals of Geriatric Medicine and Research 2025;29(1):111-118
Background:
Older adults undergoing surgery frequently have multiple comorbidities and reduced physical and cognitive reserves. This study aims to assess the effect of physical and cognitive frailty on long-term mortality in older patients undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery in a tertiary center.
Methods:
Patients aged ≥65 years old admitted to surgical wards at the University of Malaya Medical Centre were recruited. Physical frailty and cognitive status were assessed using the Fried Frailty Index (FFI) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, respectively. Patients were stratified into six groups based on their frailty and cognitive status: Group 1, normal cognition and non-frail (reference group); Group 2, normal cognition and frail; Group 3, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and non-frail; Group 4, MCI and frail; Group 5, dementia and non-frail; and Group 6, dementia and frail.
Results:
A total of 406 patients with a mean FFI score of 1.1±1.2 were recruited. Predictors of mortality include male sex (hazard ratio [HR]=1.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–3.37; p=0.015), presence of active malignancy (HR=3.86; 95% CI, 2.14–6.95; p<0.001), and high FFI scores (1.8±1.2 vs. 1.0±1.1; p=0.013). Compared to Group 1, long-term mortality risk was significantly increased in Group 4 (HR=3.17; 95% CI, 1.36–7.38) and Group 6 (HR=3.91; 95% CI, 1.62–9.43) patients.
Conclusion
The combination of physical frailty and cognitive impairment was associated with long-term mortality risk among older patients who underwent elective non-cardiac surgery. This highlights the importance of assessing physical frailty and cognitive function of all older surgical patients to guide targeted intervention, especially for those with impairments which may be potentially reversible.
10.Risk Factors for the Occurrence of Intraoperative Hypothermia in Patients undergoing Breast Cancer Surgery
Asian Oncology Nursing 2025;25(1):28-37
Purpose:
This study aimed to analyze the risk factors influencing intraoperative hypothermia in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery.
Methods:
Data were collected from 129 patients who underwent breast cancer surgery at a general hospital in City B from May 7 to November 14, 2024. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 27 with an independent t-test, a χ 2 test ( χ 2 -test), and logistic regression analysis.
Results:
A total of 61 (47.3%) out of 129 patients experienced intraoperative hypothermia. According to the results of the logistic regression analysis, lower BMI (odds ratio [OR]=0.85, CI=0.74~0.98, p=.028), a total amount of IV fluid of ≥500 mL (odds ratio [OR]=4.47,CI=1.07~18.75, p=.041), a surgery duration of ≥120 minutes (odds ratio [OR]=4.10, CI=1.02~16.51, p=.047), and intraoperative hypotension (odds ratio [OR]=3.64, CI=1.22~10.86, p=.020) were associated with an increased risk of intraoperative hypothermia.
Conclusion
To prevent intraoperative hypothermia, continuous observation and nursing intervention are required for patients with low BMI or those expected to undergo prolonged surgery. The use of warm fluids during surgery and proper intraoperative blood pressure management is also recommended.


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