PeerJ
type: channel
link: https://peerj.com/articles/
description: Articles published in PeerJ
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
publication name: PeerJ
issn: 2167-8359
items: A systematic review of global publications on clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa): identifying the publication trends, research gaps, and future directions to strengthen its conservation
items: Phosphorus fractionation and distribution in Nitisols of the central Ethiopian highlands affects soil nutrient management strategies in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) production
items: Core muscle endurance and psychosocial factors affecting functional mobility in chronic low back pain: cross-sectional results
items: Proprioception and muscle performance unchanged by in-home step training in multiple sclerosis: secondary outcomes analysis
items: Fish community structure and diversity in the Ningxia section of the main stream of the Yellow River in China
items: Fructose consumption and metabolic hypertension in rats: a systematic review and meta-analysis
items: High-fluorescent cells as a rapid screening tool for malignant effusions
items: The clinical significance of gut microbiota of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with functional abdominal bloating and distension
items: Simpler predictive models provide higher accuracy for ovarian cancer detection
items: Perception of King Khalid University students regarding the benefits, barriers, self-efficacy, knowledge, and practices related to healthy eating: a cross-sectional study

A systematic review of global publications on clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa): identifying the publication trends, research gaps, and future directions to strengthen its conservation
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Despite global investment in studying, protecting, and managing carnivores, species like the clouded leopard Neofelis nebulosa (Griffith, 1821), renowned for its elusive nature, remain significantly understudied. There is also insufficient knowledge of clouded leopard research trends in spatial and temporal domains. Additionally, thematic areas of research on this species are not clearly known. This gap in information may hinder the development of effective strategies to address key conservation challenges such as habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trade. Methods To bridge these gaps, we systematically reviewed 123 peer-reviewed journal articles published up to December 2022, offering critical insights into the current state of knowledge and identifying future research priorities to inform conservation planning. Results The spatial analysis of clouded leopard research reveals that Thailand (n = 28) dominates the range countries, while the USA (n = 26) dominates non-range countries in terms of research efforts. Temporally, research output has shown a significant increase since 2006, peaking in 2016 (n = 13), with a positive trend in publications (Kendall’s tau = 0.52, P < 0.001). Most studies focused on anatomy and physiology in captive populations (n = 31) and habitat use and distribution in free-ranging populations (n = 23). The studies on the impact of climate change on the clouded leopard and its habitat, alongside feeding ecology, remain scant, necessitating the future research in these areas. Our analysis also revealed that the maximum number of publications employed diagnosis and treatment (26%), followed by camera trapping (24.4%). We recommend integrating local ecological knowledge and monitoring technologies to map the clouded leopard’s corridors, connectivity, and bottleneck sites at the landscape level. A higher number of publications addressed habitat loss and illegal trade as the primary threats to clouded leopard conservation. Effective law…
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Nikita Phuyal
creator: Nishan Kc
creator: Neeta Pokharel
creator: Shreejan Gautam
creator: Nitu Adhikari
creator: Bijaya Dhami
creator: Saurav Lamichhane
creator: Mahamad Sayab Miya
creator: Abhinaya Pathak
creator: Bijaya Neupane
subject: Animal Behavior
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Conservation Biology
subject: Ecology
subject: Molecular Biology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20421
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Phuyal et al.
abstract: Background Despite global investment in studying, protecting, and managing carnivores, species like the clouded leopard Neofelis nebulosa (Griffith, 1821), renowned for its elusive nature, remain significantly understudied. There is also insufficient knowledge of clouded leopard research trends in spatial and temporal domains. Additionally, thematic areas of research on this species are not clearly known. This gap in information may hinder the development of effective strategies to address key conservation challenges such as habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trade. Methods To bridge these gaps, we systematically reviewed 123 peer-reviewed journal articles published up to December 2022, offering critical insights into the current state of knowledge and identifying future research priorities to inform conservation planning. Results The spatial analysis of clouded leopard research reveals that Thailand (n = 28) dominates the range countries, while the USA (n = 26) dominates non-range countries in terms of research efforts. Temporally, research output has shown a significant increase since 2006, peaking in 2016 (n = 13), with a positive trend in publications (Kendall’s tau = 0.52, P < 0.001). Most studies focused on anatomy and physiology in captive populations (n = 31) and habitat use and distribution in free-ranging populations (n = 23). The studies on the impact of climate change on the clouded leopard and its habitat, alongside feeding ecology, remain scant, necessitating the future research in these areas. Our analysis also revealed that the maximum number of publications employed diagnosis and treatment (26%), followed by camera trapping (24.4%). We recommend integrating local ecological knowledge and monitoring technologies to map the clouded leopard’s corridors, connectivity, and bottleneck sites at the landscape level. A higher number of publications addressed habitat loss and illegal trade as the primary threats to clouded leopard conservation. Effective law…
bibliographic citation: Phuyal et al. (2025) A systematic review of global publications on clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa): identifying the publication trends, research gaps, and future directions to strengthen its conservation. PeerJ 13:e20421 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20421
date submitted: 2025-04-21
date accepted: 2025-10-29
issued: 2025-12-19
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Phuyal
  given name: Nikita
author list: Agent
  family name: Kc
  given name: Nishan
author list: Agent
  family name: Pokharel
  given name: Neeta
author list: Agent
  family name: Gautam
  given name: Shreejan
author list: Agent
  family name: Adhikari
  given name: Nitu
author list: Agent
  family name: Dhami
  given name: Bijaya
author list: Agent
  family name: Lamichhane
  given name: Saurav
author list: Agent
  family name: Miya
  given name: Mahamad Sayab
author list: Agent
  family name: Pathak
  given name: Abhinaya
author list: Agent
  family name: Neupane
  given name: Bijaya
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20421
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-19
copyright: ©2025 Phuyal et al.
attribution name: Phuyal et al.

Phosphorus fractionation and distribution in Nitisols of the central Ethiopian highlands affects soil nutrient management strategies in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) production
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Optimizing nutrient management is essential for sustaining crop productivity on fertilizer-unresponsive acidic soils, particularly through a comprehensive understanding of soil phosphorus (P) dynamics. Phosphorus availability is often limited by soil physicochemical properties, necessitating site-specific amendment strategies. This study evaluated the status of inorganic P fractions and their response to various nutrient and soil amendment treatments in acidic Nitisols from Welmera and Ejere districts in the central Ethiopian highlands, with a focus on barley (Hordeum vulgare), a crop that is sensitive to low soil pH. Field and laboratory investigations revealed that strongly acidic soils responded positively to lime application combined with optimal P fertilization, resulting in significant yield improvements. In contrast, moderately to slightly acidic soils exhibited limited response to liming but showed enhanced productivity following organic amendments such as compost. Soil management strategies including the application of inorganic phosphorus fertilizers, increased barley yield to 3479 kg ha−1. Additionally, soil amendments such as agricultural lime improved barley productivity by enhancing the availability of plant-accessible phosphorus. Sequential phosphorus fractionation revealed that iron-bound and occluded P fractions dominated the inorganic P pool, accounting for approximately 45% and 35% of total inorganic P, respectively. Higher level of aluminum-bound P was also observed in strongly acidic soils. higher water-soluble P represented only about 3% of total inorganic P, highlighting the limited readily available P fraction. These findings emphasize the critical role of detailed P fractionation analysis in informing targeted nutrient management strategies to improve P availability, thereby supporting sustainable soil fertility and crop production, particularly barley under acidic soil conditions.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Matiyas Dejene Girma
creator: Miheretu Bedassa Wakessa
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Soil Science
subject: Natural Resource Management
subject: Biogeochemistry
subject: Environmental Impacts
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20410
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Girma and Wakessa
abstract: Optimizing nutrient management is essential for sustaining crop productivity on fertilizer-unresponsive acidic soils, particularly through a comprehensive understanding of soil phosphorus (P) dynamics. Phosphorus availability is often limited by soil physicochemical properties, necessitating site-specific amendment strategies. This study evaluated the status of inorganic P fractions and their response to various nutrient and soil amendment treatments in acidic Nitisols from Welmera and Ejere districts in the central Ethiopian highlands, with a focus on barley (Hordeum vulgare), a crop that is sensitive to low soil pH. Field and laboratory investigations revealed that strongly acidic soils responded positively to lime application combined with optimal P fertilization, resulting in significant yield improvements. In contrast, moderately to slightly acidic soils exhibited limited response to liming but showed enhanced productivity following organic amendments such as compost. Soil management strategies including the application of inorganic phosphorus fertilizers, increased barley yield to 3479 kg ha−1. Additionally, soil amendments such as agricultural lime improved barley productivity by enhancing the availability of plant-accessible phosphorus. Sequential phosphorus fractionation revealed that iron-bound and occluded P fractions dominated the inorganic P pool, accounting for approximately 45% and 35% of total inorganic P, respectively. Higher level of aluminum-bound P was also observed in strongly acidic soils. higher water-soluble P represented only about 3% of total inorganic P, highlighting the limited readily available P fraction. These findings emphasize the critical role of detailed P fractionation analysis in informing targeted nutrient management strategies to improve P availability, thereby supporting sustainable soil fertility and crop production, particularly barley under acidic soil conditions.
bibliographic citation: Girma et al. (2025) Phosphorus fractionation and distribution in Nitisols of the central Ethiopian highlands affects soil nutrient management strategies in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) production. PeerJ 13:e20410 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20410
date submitted: 2025-05-07
date accepted: 2025-10-28
issued: 2025-12-19
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Girma
  given name: Matiyas Dejene
author list: Agent
  family name: Wakessa
  given name: Miheretu Bedassa
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20410
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-19
copyright: ©2025 Girma and Wakessa
attribution name: Girma and Wakessa

Core muscle endurance and psychosocial factors affecting functional mobility in chronic low back pain: cross-sectional results
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background The functional limitations associated with chronic low back pain (CLBP) are substantial and are highly correlated with core muscle endurance and psychosocial factors. Core muscle endurance is known to affect physical performance, whereas pain catastrophizing and fear avoidance beliefs can contribute to disability. A comprehensive understanding of the interrelated impact of these factors is critical for developing effective rehabilitative strategies. The study aimed to (1) examine the correlation between core muscle endurance and functional mobility in CLBP subjects and (2) explore the influence of psychosocial factors, pain catastrophizing, and fear-avoidance beliefs on that correlation. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 136 adults; core muscle endurance was measured by plank, side-bridge, and back extensor tests. The timed up and go (TUG) and five times sit-to-stand test (5TSTS) were utilized to evaluate functional mobility. Pain intensity was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), and disability using the Oswestry disability index (ODI). Psychosocial factors were measured using the pain catastrophizing scale (PCS) and the fear-avoidance beliefs questionnaire (FABQ). Results Core muscle endurance measures were moderately correlated with functional mobility outcomes (TUG: r = −0.42 to −0.50, p < 0.05; 5TSTS: r = − 0.35 to −0.43, p < 0.05). Hierarchical regression showed muscle endurance accounted for 32% of the variance in mobility, while adding psychosocial factors increased the adjusted R2 to 0.52 (p < 0.05). High-psychosocial-risk subgroups analyzed within the study had poorer mobility (TUG: 9.45 ± 1.32 vs. 7.89 ± 1.21 s; p = 0.001). Conclusion Psychosocial factors and endurance of the core muscles in CLBP can significantly predict functional mobility. Integrating physical and psychological rehabilitation strategies might improve mobility outcomes, bolster human dignity, and enhance quality of life.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Ravi Shankar Reddy
creator: Mastour Saeed Alshahrani
creator: Hani Hassan Alnakhli
creator: Batool Abdulelah Alkhamis
creator: Ghada Mohamed Koura
creator: Debjani Mukherjee
creator: Raee S. Alqhtani
creator: Faisal M. Alyazedi
creator: Amal Fahad Al Mukhid
creator: Saeed Ahmed M. Alhudiry
subject: Orthopedics
subject: Psychiatry and Psychology
subject: Biomechanics
subject: Rehabilitation
subject: Sports Medicine
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20372
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Reddy et al.
abstract: Background The functional limitations associated with chronic low back pain (CLBP) are substantial and are highly correlated with core muscle endurance and psychosocial factors. Core muscle endurance is known to affect physical performance, whereas pain catastrophizing and fear avoidance beliefs can contribute to disability. A comprehensive understanding of the interrelated impact of these factors is critical for developing effective rehabilitative strategies. The study aimed to (1) examine the correlation between core muscle endurance and functional mobility in CLBP subjects and (2) explore the influence of psychosocial factors, pain catastrophizing, and fear-avoidance beliefs on that correlation. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 136 adults; core muscle endurance was measured by plank, side-bridge, and back extensor tests. The timed up and go (TUG) and five times sit-to-stand test (5TSTS) were utilized to evaluate functional mobility. Pain intensity was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), and disability using the Oswestry disability index (ODI). Psychosocial factors were measured using the pain catastrophizing scale (PCS) and the fear-avoidance beliefs questionnaire (FABQ). Results Core muscle endurance measures were moderately correlated with functional mobility outcomes (TUG: r = −0.42 to −0.50, p < 0.05; 5TSTS: r = − 0.35 to −0.43, p < 0.05). Hierarchical regression showed muscle endurance accounted for 32% of the variance in mobility, while adding psychosocial factors increased the adjusted R2 to 0.52 (p < 0.05). High-psychosocial-risk subgroups analyzed within the study had poorer mobility (TUG: 9.45 ± 1.32 vs. 7.89 ± 1.21 s; p = 0.001). Conclusion Psychosocial factors and endurance of the core muscles in CLBP can significantly predict functional mobility. Integrating physical and psychological rehabilitation strategies might improve mobility outcomes, bolster human dignity, and enhance quality of life.
bibliographic citation: Reddy et al. (2025) Core muscle endurance and psychosocial factors affecting functional mobility in chronic low back pain: cross-sectional results. PeerJ 13:e20372 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20372
date submitted: 2025-05-05
date accepted: 2025-10-20
issued: 2025-12-19
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Reddy
  given name: Ravi Shankar
author list: Agent
  family name: Alshahrani
  given name: Mastour Saeed
author list: Agent
  family name: Alnakhli
  given name: Hani Hassan
author list: Agent
  family name: Alkhamis
  given name: Batool Abdulelah
author list: Agent
  family name: Koura
  given name: Ghada Mohamed
author list: Agent
  family name: Mukherjee
  given name: Debjani
author list: Agent
  family name: Alqhtani
  given name: Raee S.
author list: Agent
  family name: Alyazedi
  given name: Faisal M.
author list: Agent
  family name: Mukhid
  given name: Amal Fahad Al
author list: Agent
  family name: Alhudiry
  given name: Saeed Ahmed M.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20372
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-19
copyright: ©2025 Reddy et al.
attribution name: Reddy et al.

Proprioception and muscle performance unchanged by in-home step training in multiple sclerosis: secondary outcomes analysis
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background The Interactive Step Training to Reduce Falls in People with Multiple Sclerosis (iFIMS) trial was a multi-centre, parallel-designed, randomised controlled trial testing an in-home, computerised exergame playing system (smart±step) in people with multiple sclerosis (Expanded Disability Status Scale 2–6). Objective This study was nested within the iFIMS trial to assess whether the smart±step system could improve secondary outcomes of ankle proprioception and plantarflexor muscle performance. Methods Tests of ankle proprioception and plantarflexor muscle performance were performed before and after 6 months of intervention with the smart±step system (intervention group; n = 33), or 6 months of usual care (control group; n = 33). Ankle proprioception outcomes included movement detection threshold and reaction time. Plantarflexor muscle performance outcomes included maximal voluntary torque, twitch torque from electrical stimulation, voluntary activation (level of neural drive), decrease in these parameters after a 2-min sustained isometric contraction, and time-to-recovery of these parameters. Results There were no differences between the intervention and control groups for all proprioception and muscle performance outcomes (95% CI of mean differences crossed 0), and no difference in time-to-recovery after the sustained contraction (95% CI of hazard ratios crossed 1). Conclusions The smart±step system did not improve proprioception or muscle performance over a 6-month intervention, compared to usual care, in people with multiple sclerosis. However, at-home interventions are cost effective and convenient, and the smart±step system could help maintain physical activity in an engaging way in this group.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Zoë J. Djajadikarta
creator: Siobhan C. Dongés
creator: Joanna Diong
creator: Phu D. Hoang
creator: David S. Kennedy
creator: Jasmine C. Menant
creator: Stephen R. Lord
creator: Janet L. Taylor
creator: Simon C. Gandevia
subject: Clinical Trials
subject: Neurology
subject: Rehabilitation
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20354
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Djajadikarta et al.
abstract: Background The Interactive Step Training to Reduce Falls in People with Multiple Sclerosis (iFIMS) trial was a multi-centre, parallel-designed, randomised controlled trial testing an in-home, computerised exergame playing system (smart±step) in people with multiple sclerosis (Expanded Disability Status Scale 2–6). Objective This study was nested within the iFIMS trial to assess whether the smart±step system could improve secondary outcomes of ankle proprioception and plantarflexor muscle performance. Methods Tests of ankle proprioception and plantarflexor muscle performance were performed before and after 6 months of intervention with the smart±step system (intervention group; n = 33), or 6 months of usual care (control group; n = 33). Ankle proprioception outcomes included movement detection threshold and reaction time. Plantarflexor muscle performance outcomes included maximal voluntary torque, twitch torque from electrical stimulation, voluntary activation (level of neural drive), decrease in these parameters after a 2-min sustained isometric contraction, and time-to-recovery of these parameters. Results There were no differences between the intervention and control groups for all proprioception and muscle performance outcomes (95% CI of mean differences crossed 0), and no difference in time-to-recovery after the sustained contraction (95% CI of hazard ratios crossed 1). Conclusions The smart±step system did not improve proprioception or muscle performance over a 6-month intervention, compared to usual care, in people with multiple sclerosis. However, at-home interventions are cost effective and convenient, and the smart±step system could help maintain physical activity in an engaging way in this group.
bibliographic citation: Djajadikarta et al. (2025) Proprioception and muscle performance unchanged by in-home step training in multiple sclerosis: secondary outcomes analysis. PeerJ 13:e20354 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20354
date submitted: 2024-09-04
date accepted: 2025-10-16
issued: 2025-12-19
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Djajadikarta
  given name: Zoë J.
author list: Agent
  family name: Dongés
  given name: Siobhan C.
author list: Agent
  family name: Diong
  given name: Joanna
author list: Agent
  family name: Hoang
  given name: Phu D.
author list: Agent
  family name: Kennedy
  given name: David S.
author list: Agent
  family name: Menant
  given name: Jasmine C.
author list: Agent
  family name: Lord
  given name: Stephen R.
author list: Agent
  family name: Taylor
  given name: Janet L.
author list: Agent
  family name: Gandevia
  given name: Simon C.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20354
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-19
copyright: ©2025 Djajadikarta et al.
attribution name: Djajadikarta et al.

Fish community structure and diversity in the Ningxia section of the main stream of the Yellow River in China
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: The Ningxia section of the Yellow River represents a critical habitat for freshwater fish biodiversity, yet its ecological integrity faces increasing threats from anthropogenic activities. To comprehensively assess the fish community structure, diversity, and its relationship with environmental factors in the Ningxia section of the Yellow River, we conducted seasonal surveys of fish resources and environmental conditions at 15 selected sites from July 2022 to September 2023. Our study employed quantitative analyses to evaluate fish community characteristics, spatiotemporal distribution patterns, and their interactions with environmental variables. A total of 42 fish species, belonging to 34 genera, 11 families, and six orders, were identified, with Cyprinidae being the dominant family (57.14%). Carnivorous species were the most abundant (22 species), followed by omnivorous (16 species) and herbivorous (four species) fish. The Relative Importance Index (IRI) identified Gobio huanghensis and Carassius auratus as the dominant species in this region. Biodiversity indices revealed a mean Margalef richness index of 3.066, Pielou evenness index of 0.5911, Shannon-Wiener diversity index of 1.791, and Simpson dominance index of 0.7083. The Abundance-Biomass Comparison (ABC) curve indicated moderate disturbances to fish communities in spring and autumn, while communities remained stable in summer and winter. Spatially, six sites (Nanchangtan, Shapotou, Jinshawan, Meijiawan, Linhe, and Taole) exhibited significant disturbances, while others showed moderate or stable conditions. The results of cluster analysis and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDs) indicated no significant differences in fish community structure among the sampling sections in the Ningxia reach of the Yellow River. Redundancy analysis (RDA) identified water temperature and ammonia nitrogen as the primary environmental factors influencing fish community structure. Our findings highlight the combined impac…
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Jiacheng Liu
creator: Shuhan Xiong
creator: Peilun Li
creator: Yanbin Liu
creator: Yongjie Wang
creator: Kai Liu
creator: Jilong Wang
subject: Aquaculture, Fisheries and Fish Science
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Ecology
subject: Freshwater Biology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20228
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Liu et al.
abstract: The Ningxia section of the Yellow River represents a critical habitat for freshwater fish biodiversity, yet its ecological integrity faces increasing threats from anthropogenic activities. To comprehensively assess the fish community structure, diversity, and its relationship with environmental factors in the Ningxia section of the Yellow River, we conducted seasonal surveys of fish resources and environmental conditions at 15 selected sites from July 2022 to September 2023. Our study employed quantitative analyses to evaluate fish community characteristics, spatiotemporal distribution patterns, and their interactions with environmental variables. A total of 42 fish species, belonging to 34 genera, 11 families, and six orders, were identified, with Cyprinidae being the dominant family (57.14%). Carnivorous species were the most abundant (22 species), followed by omnivorous (16 species) and herbivorous (four species) fish. The Relative Importance Index (IRI) identified Gobio huanghensis and Carassius auratus as the dominant species in this region. Biodiversity indices revealed a mean Margalef richness index of 3.066, Pielou evenness index of 0.5911, Shannon-Wiener diversity index of 1.791, and Simpson dominance index of 0.7083. The Abundance-Biomass Comparison (ABC) curve indicated moderate disturbances to fish communities in spring and autumn, while communities remained stable in summer and winter. Spatially, six sites (Nanchangtan, Shapotou, Jinshawan, Meijiawan, Linhe, and Taole) exhibited significant disturbances, while others showed moderate or stable conditions. The results of cluster analysis and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDs) indicated no significant differences in fish community structure among the sampling sections in the Ningxia reach of the Yellow River. Redundancy analysis (RDA) identified water temperature and ammonia nitrogen as the primary environmental factors influencing fish community structure. Our findings highlight the combined impac…
bibliographic citation: Liu et al. (2025) Fish community structure and diversity in the Ningxia section of the main stream of the Yellow River in China. PeerJ 13:e20228 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20228
date submitted: 2025-06-11
date accepted: 2025-09-22
issued: 2025-12-19
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Jiacheng
author list: Agent
  family name: Xiong
  given name: Shuhan
author list: Agent
  family name: Li
  given name: Peilun
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Yanbin
author list: Agent
  family name: Wang
  given name: Yongjie
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Kai
author list: Agent
  family name: Wang
  given name: Jilong
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20228
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-19
copyright: © 2025 Liu et al.
attribution name: Liu et al.

Fructose consumption and metabolic hypertension in rats: a systematic review and meta-analysis
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Hypertension is a growing cardiovascular risk, increasingly linked to dietary changes. This meta-analysis examines the impact of dietary fructose on hypertension by evaluating the mean difference in systolic blood pressure (SBP) in rats, considering fructose intake levels (10–30% in solution; 60–75% in diet) and exposure duration (<8 weeks, 8 weeks and >8 weeks). Materials and Methods A comprehensive search across Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus and Ovid (MEDLINE, Embase, AMED) databases identified relevant reports published until December 2022. The meta-analysis, conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software, included a total of 24 studies, with quantitative data analysed through a random-effects model. Results Fructose treatment significantly raised SBP in rats by 31.05 mmHg (95% CI [24.36–37.74], P < 0.00001), with an I2 value of 100%, indicating high heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis showed SBP increases of 28.50 mmHg (95% CI [15.25–41.75]) for 10–30% w/v fructose solution and 33.80 mmHg (95% CI [28.27–39.33]) for 60–75% w/v fructose diet, reinforcing a strong link to hypertension and suggesting a dose-dependent effect. Additionally, analysis based on fructose administration duration confirmed a significant SBP increase, underscoring its impact. Conclusion Animal studies suggest that fructose intake may contribute to elevated SBP, potentially increasing the risk of hypertension. While trends were observed across various doses and exposure durations, not all findings reached statistical significance. These observations highlight the importance of further research into the long-term effects of fructose on human blood pressure and their relevance to dietary guidelines and public health policies.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Arya VS
creator: Arunkumar Subramanian
creator: Kavitha Rajendran
creator: Tamilanban Thamaraikani
creator: Vinoth Kumarasamy
creator: Mok Shiueh Lian
creator: Rusli Bin Nordin
creator: Mahendran Sekar
creator: Vetriselvan Subramaniyan
creator: Manasa Karnam
creator: Steni Sackiriyas
creator: Ling Shing Wong
subject: Biochemistry
subject: Cardiology
subject: Metabolic Sciences
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20097
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Vs et al.
abstract: Background Hypertension is a growing cardiovascular risk, increasingly linked to dietary changes. This meta-analysis examines the impact of dietary fructose on hypertension by evaluating the mean difference in systolic blood pressure (SBP) in rats, considering fructose intake levels (10–30% in solution; 60–75% in diet) and exposure duration (<8 weeks, 8 weeks and >8 weeks). Materials and Methods A comprehensive search across Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus and Ovid (MEDLINE, Embase, AMED) databases identified relevant reports published until December 2022. The meta-analysis, conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software, included a total of 24 studies, with quantitative data analysed through a random-effects model. Results Fructose treatment significantly raised SBP in rats by 31.05 mmHg (95% CI [24.36–37.74], P < 0.00001), with an I2 value of 100%, indicating high heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis showed SBP increases of 28.50 mmHg (95% CI [15.25–41.75]) for 10–30% w/v fructose solution and 33.80 mmHg (95% CI [28.27–39.33]) for 60–75% w/v fructose diet, reinforcing a strong link to hypertension and suggesting a dose-dependent effect. Additionally, analysis based on fructose administration duration confirmed a significant SBP increase, underscoring its impact. Conclusion Animal studies suggest that fructose intake may contribute to elevated SBP, potentially increasing the risk of hypertension. While trends were observed across various doses and exposure durations, not all findings reached statistical significance. These observations highlight the importance of further research into the long-term effects of fructose on human blood pressure and their relevance to dietary guidelines and public health policies.
bibliographic citation: VS et al. (2025) Fructose consumption and metabolic hypertension in rats: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PeerJ 13:e20097 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20097
date submitted: 2024-11-18
date accepted: 2025-08-27
issued: 2025-12-19
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: VS
  given name: Arya
author list: Agent
  family name: Subramanian
  given name: Arunkumar
author list: Agent
  family name: Rajendran
  given name: Kavitha
author list: Agent
  family name: Thamaraikani
  given name: Tamilanban
author list: Agent
  family name: Kumarasamy
  given name: Vinoth
author list: Agent
  family name: Lian
  given name: Mok Shiueh
author list: Agent
  family name: Nordin
  given name: Rusli Bin
author list: Agent
  family name: Sekar
  given name: Mahendran
author list: Agent
  family name: Subramaniyan
  given name: Vetriselvan
author list: Agent
  family name: Karnam
  given name: Manasa
author list: Agent
  family name: Sackiriyas
  given name: Steni
author list: Agent
  family name: Wong
  given name: Ling Shing
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20097
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-19
copyright: ©2025 Vs et al.
attribution name: Vs et al.

High-fluorescent cells as a rapid screening tool for malignant effusions
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Objective Elevated levels of high-fluorescent cells (HFCs) in serous effusions often suggest the presence of tumor cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of HFC detection in the differentiation between benign and malignant serous effusions using the Sysmex XN-10 automated hematology analyzer in body fluid mode (BF mode). Methods Serous effusion specimens, including 702 pleural effusions, 255 ascitic fluid samples and 21 pericardial effusions, were collected from 978 patients at the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University between June 2023 and June 2024. The absolute number (HFC#) and percentage (HFC%) of HFCs were detected using the Sysmex XN-10 automated hematology analyzer. Meanwhile, levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and other biomarkers in serous effusions were measured. The diagnostic performance for malignant effusions was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results The HFC#, HFC% and CEA levels in the malignant effusion group were significantly higher than those in the benign effusion group (all P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that HFC#, HFC%, CEA, and LDH were independently associated with malignant effusion. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that CEA had the best diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.817), followed by HFC% (AUC = 0.727) and HFC# (AUC = 0.703). The diagnostic performance of HFC in combination with CEA is significantly better than that of CEA alone. For malignant effusions associated with lung cancer, the diagnostic performance of CEA was better than HFC and cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA21-1), but there was no significant difference between HFC and CYFRA21-1. Conclusion HFC demonstrates high diagnostic value in identifying malignant serous effusions, especially when used in combination with CEA. As a rapid laboratory parameter based on cellular nucleic acid characteristics, HFC can se…
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Hongmei Ding
creator: Yuexinzi Jin
creator: Chu Chu
creator: Lin Wang
subject: Biochemistry
subject: Hematology
subject: Oncology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20528
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Ding et al.
abstract: Objective Elevated levels of high-fluorescent cells (HFCs) in serous effusions often suggest the presence of tumor cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of HFC detection in the differentiation between benign and malignant serous effusions using the Sysmex XN-10 automated hematology analyzer in body fluid mode (BF mode). Methods Serous effusion specimens, including 702 pleural effusions, 255 ascitic fluid samples and 21 pericardial effusions, were collected from 978 patients at the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University between June 2023 and June 2024. The absolute number (HFC#) and percentage (HFC%) of HFCs were detected using the Sysmex XN-10 automated hematology analyzer. Meanwhile, levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and other biomarkers in serous effusions were measured. The diagnostic performance for malignant effusions was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results The HFC#, HFC% and CEA levels in the malignant effusion group were significantly higher than those in the benign effusion group (all P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that HFC#, HFC%, CEA, and LDH were independently associated with malignant effusion. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that CEA had the best diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.817), followed by HFC% (AUC = 0.727) and HFC# (AUC = 0.703). The diagnostic performance of HFC in combination with CEA is significantly better than that of CEA alone. For malignant effusions associated with lung cancer, the diagnostic performance of CEA was better than HFC and cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA21-1), but there was no significant difference between HFC and CYFRA21-1. Conclusion HFC demonstrates high diagnostic value in identifying malignant serous effusions, especially when used in combination with CEA. As a rapid laboratory parameter based on cellular nucleic acid characteristics, HFC can se…
bibliographic citation: Ding et al. (2025) High-fluorescent cells as a rapid screening tool for malignant effusions. PeerJ 13:e20528 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20528
date submitted: 2025-04-14
date accepted: 2025-11-14
issued: 2025-12-18
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Ding
  given name: Hongmei
author list: Agent
  family name: Jin
  given name: Yuexinzi
author list: Agent
  family name: Chu
  given name: Chu
author list: Agent
  family name: Wang
  given name: Lin
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20528
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-18
copyright: ©2025 Ding et al.
attribution name: Ding et al.

The clinical significance of gut microbiota of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with functional abdominal bloating and distension
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease with high morbidity and mortality. Functional abdominal bloating/distension (FABD), a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent sensations of abdominal fullness and/or visible abdominal distension without identifiable organic causes. FABD mainly impairs gastrointestinal functions—particularly intestinal transit and gas handling—rather than pulmonary function. This study characterized fecal microbiota in COPD patients with FABD to identify precision medicine biomarkers. Methods Fecal samples from 20 COPD & FABD, 20 COPD, and 10 healthy controls (HC) were analyzed via metagenomic analysis. Gut microbiota diversity/composition were compared, and immune parameters (serum IgG, CD4+/CD8+ T cells) were assessed. Results COPD/COPD & FABD patients showed significantly higher fecal microbiota α-diversity (COPD vs. HC: Chao1, P = 0.12; ACE, P = 0.14; Shannon, P = 0.0016; Simpson, P = 0.0013; COPD & FABD vs. HC: Chao1, P = 0.031; ACE, P = 0.031; Shannon, P = 0.00032; Simpson, P = 0.0005) vs. HC. β-Diversity analyses (PCA/PCoA) revealed distinct clustering between patients and HC (PCA, P = 0.014; PCoA, P = 0.013), but no separation between COPD and COPD & FABD (P > 0.05). Linear discriminant analysis (LEfSe) identified 50 discriminative biomarkers: 41 enriched in HC (Bacteroides uniformis), five in COPD & FABD (Bacilli, Enterococcus faecium), and four in COPD (Streptococcus parasanguinis). Notably, Enterococcus faecium was highly abundant in patients (22.04–26.92%) but absent in HC, suggesting a potential association with the COPD-FABD condition. Random forest models showed moderate diagnostic accuracy for all microbes (AUC = 0.632) and strong performance for fungal biomarkers (Clostridium fessum, Clostridioides difficile; AUC = 0.856). Conclusion Gut microbiota signatures, particularly Enterococcus faecium and fungal taxa, may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for COPD progression and FABD…
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Xiaowei Lu
creator: Haiyun Dai
creator: Xiang Gu
creator: Jing Xie
creator: Xianhong Zhong
creator: Xiaofen Dong
creator: Bing Su
creator: Jia Su
creator: Linlin Wang
creator: Tingting Sun
creator: Lihui Geng
subject: Microbiology
subject: Respiratory Medicine
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20526
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Lu et al.
abstract: Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease with high morbidity and mortality. Functional abdominal bloating/distension (FABD), a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent sensations of abdominal fullness and/or visible abdominal distension without identifiable organic causes. FABD mainly impairs gastrointestinal functions—particularly intestinal transit and gas handling—rather than pulmonary function. This study characterized fecal microbiota in COPD patients with FABD to identify precision medicine biomarkers. Methods Fecal samples from 20 COPD & FABD, 20 COPD, and 10 healthy controls (HC) were analyzed via metagenomic analysis. Gut microbiota diversity/composition were compared, and immune parameters (serum IgG, CD4+/CD8+ T cells) were assessed. Results COPD/COPD & FABD patients showed significantly higher fecal microbiota α-diversity (COPD vs. HC: Chao1, P = 0.12; ACE, P = 0.14; Shannon, P = 0.0016; Simpson, P = 0.0013; COPD & FABD vs. HC: Chao1, P = 0.031; ACE, P = 0.031; Shannon, P = 0.00032; Simpson, P = 0.0005) vs. HC. β-Diversity analyses (PCA/PCoA) revealed distinct clustering between patients and HC (PCA, P = 0.014; PCoA, P = 0.013), but no separation between COPD and COPD & FABD (P > 0.05). Linear discriminant analysis (LEfSe) identified 50 discriminative biomarkers: 41 enriched in HC (Bacteroides uniformis), five in COPD & FABD (Bacilli, Enterococcus faecium), and four in COPD (Streptococcus parasanguinis). Notably, Enterococcus faecium was highly abundant in patients (22.04–26.92%) but absent in HC, suggesting a potential association with the COPD-FABD condition. Random forest models showed moderate diagnostic accuracy for all microbes (AUC = 0.632) and strong performance for fungal biomarkers (Clostridium fessum, Clostridioides difficile; AUC = 0.856). Conclusion Gut microbiota signatures, particularly Enterococcus faecium and fungal taxa, may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for COPD progression and FABD…
bibliographic citation: Lu et al. (2025) The clinical significance of gut microbiota of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with functional abdominal bloating and distension. PeerJ 13:e20526 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20526
date submitted: 2025-06-26
date accepted: 2025-11-13
issued: 2025-12-18
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Lu
  given name: Xiaowei
author list: Agent
  family name: Dai
  given name: Haiyun
author list: Agent
  family name: Gu
  given name: Xiang
author list: Agent
  family name: Xie
  given name: Jing
author list: Agent
  family name: Zhong
  given name: Xianhong
author list: Agent
  family name: Dong
  given name: Xiaofen
author list: Agent
  family name: Su
  given name: Bing
author list: Agent
  family name: Su
  given name: Jia
author list: Agent
  family name: Wang
  given name: Linlin
author list: Agent
  family name: Sun
  given name: Tingting
author list: Agent
  family name: Geng
  given name: Lihui
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20526
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-18
copyright: © 2025 Lu et al.
attribution name: Lu et al.

Simpler predictive models provide higher accuracy for ovarian cancer detection
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Ovarian cancer remains a danger to women’s health, and accurate screening tests would likely increase survival. Two established protein biomarkers, CA125 and HE4, have been shown to work well in isolation, but achieve even higher accuracy when combined using logistic regression (LR). This LR-based combination of protein concentrations achieves high accuracy when distinguishing healthy samples from cancer samples (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.99). The dataset we use was obtained from a previous publication that described DELFI-Pro, an LR model combining features derived from cell-free DNA (cfDNA) with the two proteins’ concentrations. We show that many of DELFI-Pro’s cfDNA features are affected by confounding technical variation within training data, which impacts the previously reported results. A minority of the training data’s cancer samples (42 of 94) have chromosomal copy number values that are markedly different from the other samples used to evaluate the DELFI-Pro screening model. After removing those 42 samples from the training data, we find that DELFI-Pro does not outperform CA125 or CA125+HE4 protein-only screening classifiers even in cross validation, including a two-protein model published alongside the DELFI-Pro model. We conclude that DELFI-Pro does not adequately justify the inclusion of its cfDNA features. Our results are in line with the principle that simpler machine learning models will tend to exhibit better generalizability on new data.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Derrick E. Wood
creator: Joseph Roy
creator: Bari J. Ballew
subject: Computational Biology
subject: Gynecology and Obstetrics
subject: Oncology
subject: Computational Science
subject: Data Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20525
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Wood et al.
abstract: Ovarian cancer remains a danger to women’s health, and accurate screening tests would likely increase survival. Two established protein biomarkers, CA125 and HE4, have been shown to work well in isolation, but achieve even higher accuracy when combined using logistic regression (LR). This LR-based combination of protein concentrations achieves high accuracy when distinguishing healthy samples from cancer samples (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.99). The dataset we use was obtained from a previous publication that described DELFI-Pro, an LR model combining features derived from cell-free DNA (cfDNA) with the two proteins’ concentrations. We show that many of DELFI-Pro’s cfDNA features are affected by confounding technical variation within training data, which impacts the previously reported results. A minority of the training data’s cancer samples (42 of 94) have chromosomal copy number values that are markedly different from the other samples used to evaluate the DELFI-Pro screening model. After removing those 42 samples from the training data, we find that DELFI-Pro does not outperform CA125 or CA125+HE4 protein-only screening classifiers even in cross validation, including a two-protein model published alongside the DELFI-Pro model. We conclude that DELFI-Pro does not adequately justify the inclusion of its cfDNA features. Our results are in line with the principle that simpler machine learning models will tend to exhibit better generalizability on new data.
bibliographic citation: Wood et al. (2025) Simpler predictive models provide higher accuracy for ovarian cancer detection. PeerJ 13:e20525 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20525
date submitted: 2025-03-25
date accepted: 2025-11-13
issued: 2025-12-18
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Wood
  given name: Derrick E.
author list: Agent
  family name: Roy
  given name: Joseph
author list: Agent
  family name: Ballew
  given name: Bari J.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20525
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-18
copyright: ©2025 Wood et al.
attribution name: Wood et al.

Perception of King Khalid University students regarding the benefits, barriers, self-efficacy, knowledge, and practices related to healthy eating: a cross-sectional study
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Maintaining healthy eating habits is crucial for promoting better nutritional status, especially among university students who face challenges. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the perceptions of King Khalid University students regarding the benefits and barriers to healthy eating, their self-efficacy, nutritional knowledge, and dietary practices. Methods This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design. A total of 385 students participated by completing a pretested, self-administered questionnaire consisting of 87 items. Results Findings revealed a high perception of the benefits of healthy eating (Mean = 4.23, SD = 0.83). However, participants reported significant perceived barriers (Mean = 3.12, SD = 1.19), particularly the high cost of healthy foods (Mean = 3.89, SD = 1.15). Self-efficacy in adopting healthy eating was moderate (Mean = 3.25, SD = 1.21). Knowledge of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables was high, whereas awareness of whole grains and flaxseeds was limited. Regression analysis indicated that perceived barriers (B = –0.181, p < 0.001), self-efficacy (B = 0.078, p = 0.003), and knowledge of food healthiness (B = 0.125, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of healthy food practices. Conclusion Although students had positive perceptions, barriers and knowledge gaps persisted. Interventions should focus on reducing barriers, enhancing self-efficacy, and improving nutrition literacy to promote healthier behaviors among university students.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Amani Alhazmi
creator: Manal Mohammed Hawash
creator: Maha Ali
creator: Haroon Ali
creator: Farah Aziz
creator: Khursheed Muzammil
subject: Epidemiology
subject: Nutrition
subject: Public Health
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20523
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Alhazmi et al.
abstract: Background Maintaining healthy eating habits is crucial for promoting better nutritional status, especially among university students who face challenges. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the perceptions of King Khalid University students regarding the benefits and barriers to healthy eating, their self-efficacy, nutritional knowledge, and dietary practices. Methods This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design. A total of 385 students participated by completing a pretested, self-administered questionnaire consisting of 87 items. Results Findings revealed a high perception of the benefits of healthy eating (Mean = 4.23, SD = 0.83). However, participants reported significant perceived barriers (Mean = 3.12, SD = 1.19), particularly the high cost of healthy foods (Mean = 3.89, SD = 1.15). Self-efficacy in adopting healthy eating was moderate (Mean = 3.25, SD = 1.21). Knowledge of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables was high, whereas awareness of whole grains and flaxseeds was limited. Regression analysis indicated that perceived barriers (B = –0.181, p < 0.001), self-efficacy (B = 0.078, p = 0.003), and knowledge of food healthiness (B = 0.125, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of healthy food practices. Conclusion Although students had positive perceptions, barriers and knowledge gaps persisted. Interventions should focus on reducing barriers, enhancing self-efficacy, and improving nutrition literacy to promote healthier behaviors among university students.
bibliographic citation: Alhazmi et al. (2025) Perception of King Khalid University students regarding the benefits, barriers, self-efficacy, knowledge, and practices related to healthy eating: a cross-sectional study. PeerJ 13:e20523 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20523
date submitted: 2025-05-06
date accepted: 2025-11-13
issued: 2025-12-18
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Alhazmi
  given name: Amani
author list: Agent
  family name: Hawash
  given name: Manal Mohammed
author list: Agent
  family name: Ali
  given name: Maha
author list: Agent
  family name: Ali
  given name: Haroon
author list: Agent
  family name: Aziz
  given name: Farah
author list: Agent
  family name: Muzammil
  given name: Khursheed
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20523
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-12-18
copyright: © 2025 Alhazmi et al.
attribution name: Alhazmi et al.

PeerJ
type: Periodical
uri: PeerJ
issn: 2167-8359