Journals
2026 EN
Chapman Hutton · Ntemi Paul S. · Mahene Richard
+5 more
ABSTRACT Background Despite the excellent outcomes achieved for pediatric mature B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (MB‐NHL) in high‐income countries, outcomes remain very poor in low‐ and middle‐income countries. High‐dose methotrexate (HD‐MTX), which is highly efficacious for the disease, is still not commonly used in low‐resource settings due to the potential for treatment‐associated toxicity. Though there have been more recent reports of successful use of HD‐MTX in resource‐limited settings, there are no reports to date regarding the methodology used to safely introduce HD‐MTX in these environments. Subsequently, at our treatment center in northern Tanzania, we endeavored to utilize implementation science methodology to elucidate generalizable methods to allow for a safe introduction of HD‐MTX in a resource‐limited setting. Procedure The Active Implementation Frameworks were utilized as a starting point to generate an initial implementation plan. Intervention fit was assessed, and resource mapping and cost analysis were completed. Key stakeholders were identified and engaged. Novel educational strategies, decision support tools, and protocol fidelity monitoring systems were developed. Results Following completion of all planning and education activities, use of a new HD‐MTX containing MB‐NHL protocol began in October of 2024. As of June 2025, 27 cycles of HD‐MTX have been given to a cumulative total of 10 patients. Few protocol deviations have occurred, and only one Grade III non‐hematologic adverse event has been reported. Conclusions The use of implementation science methodology allowed a careful introduction of the use of HD‐MTX for the treatment of pediatric MB‐NHL in a resource‐limited setting.
Journals
2026 EN
Schweiger Julia · Walz Laura · Frühwald Michael C.
+2 more
ABSTRACT Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy remains a major complication in pediatric cancer, with disrupted somatosensory and nociceptive processing being a key aspect. This review synthesizes empirical studies on alterations in somatosensory and nociceptive processing in children and adolescents with cancer. We conducted this review in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and preregistered it in PROSPERO. A systematic search was performed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Web of Science in April 2025. Eligible studies were screened by two independent reviewers and synthesized narratively. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale for Case–Control Studies. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, all using cross‐sectional designs and quantitative sensory testing (QST) or other pain protocols. Overall, findings suggest altered somatosensory processing in this population, with higher mechanical and thermal detection thresholds in patients compared to controls. Findings on nociceptive processing were more heterogeneous, with most studies suggesting unaltered pain sensitivity in the lower pain range and increased sensitivity in the higher pain range, highlighting increased pain vulnerability to more intense pain stimuli following cancer and its treatment. This review reveals a pattern of decreased somatosensory processing and increased nociceptive processing in pediatric patients/survivors with cancer, likely attributable to damage of peripheral nervous tissues as well as central sensitization.
Journals
2026 EN
Chen Xi · Wang Shiping · Yu Weixia
+3 more
ABSTRACT Objective To systematically evaluate the association between maternal infection during pregnancy and the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in offspring through a comprehensive meta‐analysis of adjusted and pathogen‐specific data. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library from inception to January 7, 2025. Two reviewers performed data extraction and assessed study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for any infection, specific pathogen infection, and anatomical sites of infection. Sensitivity analyses and the GRADE approach were employed to evaluate the robustness and certainty of the evidence. Results A total of 26 studies were included. The pooled adjusted OR for “any infection” was 1.18 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.35) after sensitivity analysis. Influenza demonstrated the most robust association (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.90; 95% CI: 1.27–2.83). In contrast, Epstein–Barr virus (adjusted OR 1.45; 95% CI: 1.00–2.09) and respiratory tract infections (adjusted OR 1.18; 95% CI: 1.00–1.39) showed only borderline significance. Analysis by anatomical site revealed a significant but likely artifactual signal for combined genitourinary infections (OR 1.44; 95% CI: 1.03–2.01), which was not replicated in more populous, tract‐specific syntheses. Conclusions Maternal infections during pregnancy, particularly influenza, are associated with an increased risk of childhood ALL, and borderline associations were observed for EBV and respiratory infections. The observed risk from genitourinary infections may have come from confounding. These findings emphasize the clinical importance of influenza prevention and the timely management of prenatal infections.
Journals
2026 EN
Rostalski Hannah · Oudenaarden Clara · Tian Miao
+3 more
Many postdocs work as leaders later in their career. But how do postdocs acquire the skills to become leaders? Postdocs from the international Marie Skłodowska–Curie leadership program (LEAD) at the University of Copenhagen postulate that supervision should be seen as an opportunity for training leadership skills. However, although every postdoc will supervise a student sooner or later, too many might find it a burden, which can lead to poor supervision and frustration. To help peers overcome problems in supervision, LEAD postdocs provide concrete tips for supervisors regarding planning, expectations alignment, and trust building. These tips can help supervisors establish a healthy, professional student–supervisor relationship that fosters the students' independence and ultimately leads to good science. Furthermore, the authors point out that the tasks related to supervision translate into leadership skills, such as delegation, decision‐making, and relationship building. Hence, by focusing on becoming good supervisors, postdocs can prepare themselves for future leadership positions and provide a fruitful professional environment for students.
Journals
2026 EN
Naseem Muhammad
Collaboration has become an essential pillar of modern biological research. From international genome initiatives to interdisciplinary multi‐omics projects, research in the life sciences increasingly relies on (multi)institutional teamwork. Yet, many collaborations fail to deliver on their promises of innovation, efficiency, and scientific impact. Morten T. Hansen's concept of ‘disciplined collaboration’ (2009) offers a valuable framework for understanding why collaboration sometimes hinders rather than helps research productivity. In this article, Hansen's principles are repurposed to the context of biological research in universities and research institutes. It is substantiated that selective, well‐managed, and strategically aligned collaborations, rather than indiscriminate cooperations, lead to sustainable scientific advancement. The discussion of this paper explores the four major barriers to effective collaboration in academia, the three organizational levers proposed by Hansen, and the evaluative processes necessary for implementing disciplined collaboration in research environments. Finally, Hansen's views on institutional strategies are adapted to cultivate collaborative excellence within life science research in academic institutions.
Journals
2026 EN
Sriratanasak Nicharat · Nutho Bodee · Wattanathana Worawat
+6 more
The c‐Myc protein is a well‐known oncoprotein that plays a crucial role in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. The overexpression or dysregulation of c‐Myc is commonly associated with tumorigenesis in several cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). c‐Myc forms a heterodimer with its partner MAX to activate the expression of various genes. Here, we synthesized a novel c‐Myc‐targeting small molecule, 2,2′‐((cyclohexylazanedyl)bis(methylene))bis(4‐ethylphenol), or ECD, and demonstrate ECD's anticancer activity via interference with the c‐Myc/MAX dimer to promote c‐Myc degradation in CRC cells in vitro , in silico , and in vivo . This study revealed the activity of ECD toward CRC cells as a c‐Myc inhibitor. Computer‐aided analysis revealed that the effect of ECD was mediated through disturbance of the c‐Myc/MAX complex. Moreover, ECD exhibited cytotoxic activity by inducing DNA damage, leading to apoptotic cell death. This DNA damage‐inducing property was also confirmed by whole‐proteome profiling of HT29 cells after ECD treatment. In the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) xenograft assay, we demonstrated a remarkable inhibition of the tumorigenic activity upon ECD exposure. In summary, we identified ECD as a novel potent compound targeting the oncoprotein c‐Myc that may offer new opportunities for CRC treatment.
Journals
2026 EN
Suart Celeste · Zubyk Haley L. · Ogrodnik Michelle
+2 more
Senior research thesis courses are a hallmark feature of many undergraduate science programs, with several documented benefits, including the development of research skills and scientific identity alongside career exploration. In this study, we investigated how the senior research thesis experience is perceived by distinct student populations. We surveyed undergraduate students from two programs at a mid‐sized, research‐intensive university: Biochemistry, a basic science‐focused program, and Biomedical Discovery and Commercialization, a hybrid program combining science and business. Both groups were enrolled in identical fourth‐year laboratory‐based thesis courses. Our analysis measured the impact of the thesis experience on students' scientific inquiry skills and beliefs; furthermore, we examined how these changes influenced their professional socialization as researchers and their postdegree career goals. Our findings suggest that completing a senior research thesis increased students' perception of their research‐related skills, regardless of program enrollment. While there were fewer significant changes regarding student epistemological beliefs around scientific research, qualitative and quantitative measures support the idea that students have developed a more positive perception of failure and resilience within research. Additionally, while students within the science‐business hybrid program experienced no significant changes in career goals, completion of a senior research thesis had a significant impact on students within the science‐based program. Overall, our results demonstrate that laboratory‐based thesis courses can have a notable effect on developing student research skills, beliefs about scientific research, and career goals, and that these effects vary based on the student population.
Journals
2026 EN
Arzeman Akmal · Haines Jessica · Pritchard Connie
+2 more
The rapid shift to online and blended learning in higher education has led to the development and use of digital tools that support student engagement and learning outcomes. This systematic review examines the effectiveness of these digital tools across various disciplines in higher education, focussing on factors that promote or hinder student engagement. A criteria‐based comprehensive systematic search of three databases (Scopus, Web of Science and ProQuest, last date of enquiry 20 August 2024) identified 25 studies, inclusion criteria focussing on primary studies describing and evaluating interactive digital tools designed to enhance learning and/or assessment in higher education. Papers were analysed for bias using JBI checklists, and the papers' findings were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Analysis of the papers uncovered four key design features that foster engagement with effective digital tools: interactivity, ease of use, immediate feedback and personalised learning experiences. Based on these findings, this review proposes a cyclic model for designing digital tools, emphasising an initial needs analysis, integration with course content, active engagement of students and educators, and ongoing refinement based on feedback. This model offers actionable guidelines for educators and institutions aiming to optimise digital tool development in higher education. The papers identified were typically short‐term studies, on specific cohorts of students, and more long‐term studies of the impact of digital resources are needed to determine long‐term learning gain. The systematic review underscores practical strategies for leveraging digital tools to promote active, self‐directed learning by focussing on evidence‐based principles.
Journals
2026 EN
Dulić Morana · Koistinen Hannu · Berntsson Ronnie
FEBS+ meeting Exploring molecular frontiers , held in Pula, Croatia, in autumn 2024 was jointly organized by the Croatian, Finnish, and Swedish Member Societies of the Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS). The congress covered a wide variety of different biochemical themes, some of the highlights of which are presented in this ‘In the Limelight’ issue of FEBS Open Bio . We hope that, in addition to being scientifically useful and interesting, these articles will give a glimpse of the excellent science presented in the FEBS3+ meeting Exploring molecular frontiers and encourage attendance to future FEBS3+ meetings.
Journals
2026 EN
SaboBrants Hagit Mercedes · Ariel Barak · Bushman Brad J.
ABSTRACT Aggression and emotional distress are all too common in at‐risk adolescents in closed residential institutions, which often contain restrictive conditions such as overcrowding, lack of autonomy, and shifting staff–youth relationships. In war‐torn areas like Israel, these restrictive conditions are amplified with additional stressors such as the threat of injury or even death. In such settings, feasibility studies are greatly needed to investigate how to reduce aggression and emotional distress in vulnerable adolescents. This feasibility randomized clinical trial evaluated the effectiveness of a virtual reality (VR)‐based relaxation intervention in decreasing self‐reported aggression tendencies and emotional distress and increasing positive psychological states among at‐risk Israeli adolescents in residential care. Fifty‐two participants from different residential facilities were randomly assigned to a treatment group ( n = 27), who received twice‐weekly VR relaxation sessions, or a waitlist control group ( n = 25). Self‐report measures of aggression and emotional distress were administered at baseline, midway through the intervention (2 weeks), and at the end of the intervention (4 weeks). Mixed‐effects linear models suggest that the treatment group demonstrated clear reductions in both aggression and emotional distress across the intervention period relative to the control group (Hedges' gs : 0.85–1.42). In addition, immediately before and after each VR session, participants in the treatment group reported consistent increases in positive mood and flow experience (Hedges' gs : 0.45–0.73). These preliminary findings support the utility of brief VR relaxation practices in reducing negative emotional states and fostering well‐being among high‐risk youth in closed institutional settings. Trial Registration: This study was pre‐registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF) prior to data collection. The pre‐registration is available at: https://osf.io/pr3md/ .