The role and underlying mechanisms of irisin in exercise-mediated cardiovascular protection
Irisin, a product of the post-translational processing of fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), is a novel myokine which is upregulated during exercise. This hormone not only promotes the transformation of white adipose tissue into a brown-fat-like phenotype but also enhances energy expenditure and mitigates fat accumulation. Its role is crucial in the management of certain metabolic disorders such as diabetes and heart disease. Of note, the type of exercise performed significantly affects blood irisin levels, indicating the critical role of physical activity in regulating this hormone. This article aims to summarize the current scientific understanding of the role of irisin and the mechanisms through which it mediates cardiovascular protection through exercise. Moreover, this article aims to establish irisin as a potential target for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.
Guo et al. (2024) The role and underlying mechanisms of irisin in exercise-mediated cardiovascular protection. PeerJ 12:e18413 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18413
Rotating cell culture system-induced injectable self-assembled microtissues with epidermal stem cells for full-thickness skin repair
Epidermal stem cells (EpSCs) are crucial for wound healing and tissue regeneration, and traditional culture methods often lead to their inactivation. It is urgent to increase the yield of high quality EpSCs. In this study, primary EpSCs were isolated and cultured in a serum-free, feeder-free culture system. EpSCs are then expanded in a dynamic 3D environment using a rotating cell culture system (RCCS) with biodegradable porous microcarriers (MC). Over a period of 14 days, the cells self-assembled into microtissues with superior cell proliferation compared to 3D static culture. Immunofluorescence and qPCR analyses consistently showed that the stemness of the 3D microtissues was preserved, especially the COL17A1 associated with anti-aging was highly expressed in RCCS induced microtissues. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the group treated with 3D microtissues loaded with EpSCs showed enhanced early wound healing, and the injectable 3D microtissues were more conducive to maintaining cell viability and differentiation potential. Our study provides valuable insights into the dynamic 3D culture of EpSCs and introduces an injectable therapy using 3D microtissues loaded with EpSCs, which provides a new and effective approach for cell delivery and offering a promising strategy for guiding the regeneration of full-thickness skin defects.
Zhang et al. (2024) Rotating cell culture system-induced injectable self-assembled microtissues with epidermal stem cells for full-thickness skin repair. PeerJ 12:e18418 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18418
Use of intravenous immunoglobulin in antiphospholipid antibody positive patients with high risk of miscarriage: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Objective The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) increases live birth rates and improves neonatal results in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) at high-risk for miscarriage. Background Positivity of aPL in pregnant women is a high-risk factor for miscarriage, and IVIG treatment has emerged as a potential intervention. Methods The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline was employed to search multiple electronic databases for articles published until August 20, 2023, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and Medline. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies assessing the efficacy of IVIG in aPL-positive patients with a high risk of miscarriage. Relevant articles were assessed for the quality and data were extracted for analysis. Two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction, and quality assessments. The risk of bias was evaluated according to the Cochrane risk of bias tool. All analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.3. Results This systematic review included nine randomized controlled trials, with 366 aPL-positive women at high risk of miscarriage. These studies included in this review were randomized controlled trials. The primary outcome measures were successful pregnancy outcomes and live birth rates. The secondary outcomes included obstetric complications, and neonatal outcomes (such as birth weight and live-birth rate). The comparison between the intervention and control groups revealed no significant differences in terms of obstetric complications and neonatal outcomes. The group receiving IVIG treatment had a higher prevalence of preterm deliveries than controls (OR = 2.05, I2 = 46%, 95% CI [0.58–5.24]), but also exhibited a partial improvement in live birth rates (OR = 2.86, I2 = 52%, 95% CI [1.04–7.90]), because it reduced the number of miscarriages (OR = 0.35, I2 = 52%, 95% CI [0.13–0.96]). Conclusion Based on the available evidence, IVIG intervention appears to be a potentially effective approach for managing of aPL-positive pregnant women with high risk of miscarriage. While IVIG shows significant potential in tripling the chances of having a live-born child, further large-scale randomized controlled trials are necessary, preferably comparing IVIG with hydroxychloroquine or lifestyle and dietary interventions, to refine treatment protocols and ensure the most effective application.
Yuan et al. (2024) Use of intravenous immunoglobulin in antiphospholipid antibody positive patients with high risk of miscarriage: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PeerJ 12:e18419 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18419
Prevalence of anxiety, depression, stress and insomnia among healthcare professionals during COVID-19 in Africa: umbrella review of existing meta-analyses
Introduction In Africa, healthcare professionals experienced various mental health problems during COVID-19. However, very little was done on the extensive evidence regarding mental disorders. The purpose of this umbrella review is to provide comprehensive data on the prevalence of anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia among healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. Materials and Methods Systematic searches of databases African Journals Online, MedRxiv, PubMed, and Google Scholar were used to identify studies from the occurrence of COVID-19 from December 2019 to March 2023 were included. To pool the gathered data for results with a 95% confidence interval (CI), DerSimonian-Laird random effects meta-analysis was used. For heterogeneity examination, I2 was used. The quality assessment was evaluated by using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist. Results A total of five studies reported the prevalence of depression, the pooled prevalence was 53.75% (95% CI [40.80–66.70], I2 = 63.6%, p = 0.027). In a total of four studies, the pooled prevalence of anxiety was 49.97% (95% CI [34.71–65.23], I2 = 71.26%, p = 0.014). From a total of two studies, the pooled prevalence of stress was 57.27% (95% CI [42.28–72.25], I2 = 58.9%, p = 0.119). From a total of four studies, the pooled prevalence of insomnia was 45.16% (95% CI [32.94–57.39], I2 = 50.8%, p = 0.107). Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic highly affects the mental health of healthcare professionals in Africa. Stress, depression, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms were representing the most common based on evidences from existing meta-analyses. This evidence can help experts when executing specific interventions that address mental health problems among healthcare professionals during future public health crises.
Hasen et al. (2024) Prevalence of anxiety, depression, stress and insomnia among healthcare professionals during COVID-19 in Africa: umbrella review of existing meta-analyses. PeerJ 12:e18108 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18108
The Argyreia collinsiae species complex (Convolvulaceae): phenetic analysis and geographic distribution reveal subspecies new to science
Argyreia Lour. is a speciose genus in the Convolvulaceae. However, the genus contains several problematic species complexes due to their morphological similarity. In this study, we aimed to resolve the Argyreia collinsiae complex, which consists of four similar operational taxonomic units (OTUs), i.e., A. collinsiae (Craib) Na Songkhla & Traiperm, A. dokmaihom Traiperm & Staples, A. versicolor (Kerr) Staples & Traiperm, and a peculiar OTU typically known as the large-bract morphotype of A. collinsiae. Following morphological comparison and phenetic analysis, all four OTUs were found to be distinct. However, the large-bract morphotype of A. collinsiae was confirmed to be more closely related to the original morphotype of A. collinsiae than to the other two species. Species distribution modeling (SDM) was then conducted for both morphotypes of A. collinsiae, revealing different geographical ranges of suitable habitat for each. In conclusion, the large-bract morphotype of A. collinsiae was described in this study as a new subspecies, A. collinsiae subsp. megabracteata Traiperm & Srisombat, subsp. nov., based on morphological differences and separate geographic range. We also provide here an identification key, description, detailed illustrations, distribution data, and ecological notes of the new subspecies. An updated description of A. versicolor and an assessment of its conservation status were also prepared since the original description was based solely on dried herbarium specimens and lacks key details.
Srisombat et al. (2024) The Argyreia collinsiae species complex (Convolvulaceae): phenetic analysis and geographic distribution reveal subspecies new to science. PeerJ 12:e18294 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18294
Impact of three weeks of integrative neuromuscular training on the athletic performance of elite female boxers
Objectives To investigate the effects of integrative neuromuscular training (INT) on the athletic performance of elite female boxers. Methods A before-and-after controlled experiment was conducted on 37 elite Chinese female boxers (Age: 26.00 ± 3.11 years). All included athletes have competed at the international level. The INT intervention was administered 11 times per week for 3 weeks. This training includes strength training, explosive training, core stability, agility exercises, high intensity intervals and sprint intervals. Basic physical fitness tests, including the deep squat and bench press one-repetition maximum (1RM), vertical long jump, 30 m sprint run, 400 m run, 3,000 m run, 1-minute hexagonal jump, and 3-minute double shake; as well as specialized striking ability tests, including single-punch striking and 10-second, 30-second, and 3-minute continuous punching, were conducted before and after the intervention. Results Compared with pre-intervention baseline data, significant differences were found in the athletes’ post-intervention baseline physical fitness, including squat and beach press (1RM), vertical jump, 30 m sprint run, 400 m run, 3,000 m run, 1-minute hexagonal jump, and 3-minute double shake (p < 0.05). Additionally, 10-second, 30-second, and 3-minute continuous punching were significantly different compared with pre-intervention (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found in single punch power (p > 0.05). Conclusion The 3-week INT can significantly improve the maximum strength, vertical explosive power, linear acceleration, agility, and continuous punching abilities of Chinese elite female boxers. The use of INT in physical training may enhance their athletic performance.
Niu et al. (2024) Impact of three weeks of integrative neuromuscular training on the athletic performance of elite female boxers. PeerJ 12:e18311 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18311
Research progress on V delta 1+ T cells and their effect on pathogen infection
The ongoing high occurrence of harmful infectious diseases significantly threatens human health. Existing methods used to control such diseases primarily involve targeting the pathogens, usually neglecting the vital role of host factors in disease advancement. Gamma delta (γδ) T cells act as a bridge between innate and adaptive immunity, playing a crucial role in combating pathogen invasion. Among these γδT cell subsets, which are categorized based on T cell receptor delta variable expression patterns, V delta (δ) 1+ T cells possess unique recognition abilities and regulatory characteristics and actively engage in various immune responses. The differentiation, development, and immune reactivity of Vδ1+ T cells are closely associated with the initial and progressive stages of infectious diseases. This article provides an overview of the classification, distribution, differentiation, and development of Vδ1+ T cells and their mechanisms in combating pathogenic infections, offering new insights for disease diagnosis and treatment.
Li et al. (2024) Research progress on V delta 1+ T cells and their effect on pathogen infection. PeerJ 12:e18313 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18313
Meta-analysis of the efficacy of the erector spinae plane block after spinal fusion surgery
Objective To investigate the efficacy of erector spinal plane block (ESPB) after spinal fusion surgery in this study. Methods The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and Web of Science databases were searched with a search deadline of March 30, 2024, and Stata 15.0 was used to analyze the data from the included studies. Result Nine randomized controlled trials involving 663 patients were included. Meta-analysis showed that EPSB could reduce pain scores at 2h (standard mean difference (SMD) = −0.78, 95% CI [−1.38 to −0.19], GRADE: Moderate), 6 h (SMD = −0.81, 95% CI [−1.23 to −0.38], GRADE: Moderate), 12 h (SMD = −0.59, 95% CI [−1.05 to −0.13], GRADE: Moderate), 24 h (SMD = −0.54, 95% CI [−0.86 to −0.21], GRADE: Moderate), 48 h (SMD = −0.40, 95% CI [−0.75 to −0.05], GRADE: Moderate) after spinal fusion surgery, as well as the PCA (analgesia medication use) (SMD = −1.67, 95% CI [−2.67 to −0.67], GRADE: Moderate). However, EPSB had no effect on intraoperative blood loss (SMD = −0.28, 95% CI [−1.03 to 0.47], GRADE: Low) and length of hospital stay (SMD = −0.27, 95% CI [−0.60–0.06], GRADE: Low). Conclusion Combined with the current findings, EPSB may reduce pain scores in spinal fusion surgery, possibly reducing the use of postoperative analgesics. However, due to the limitations of the study, we need more high-quality, multi-center, large sample randomized controlled trials to merge.
He et al. (2024) Meta-analysis of the efficacy of the erector spinae plane block after spinal fusion surgery. PeerJ 12:e18332 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18332
The critical need for child and youth perceptions of active living in India: capturing context complexity in rural and urban regions
Background The physical inactivity pandemic not only has a negative impact on the physical and mental health of children and youth, but it is also a key contributor to the non-communicable disease (NCD) burden, particularly among low- and middle-income countries. The widespread effects of climate change, ranging from extreme weather events to worsening air quality, are exacerbating the physical inactivity pandemic, highlighting the need to undertake holistic interventions to address environmental barriers while promoting physical activity. Despite the potential benefits of active school transportation (AST) on physical activity and the environment, no study has examined the intersection between perceptions of AST, environmental perceptions, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among children and youth in India from a child and youth perspective. Methods As a part of this cross-sectional, observational study, digital survey links were administered to 1,042 children and youth aged 5 to 17 (50.3% boys; 49.7% girls). Participants were recruited from 41 schools across 28 rural and urban regions in India. Children and youth provided information on various sociodemographic factors, perceptions of crime and air pollution, and peer support factors. MVPA data were collected using an adapted version of the IPAQ short-form questionnaire. The overall sample was stratified by age, gender, and location, resulting in a total of seven multiple linear regression models to assess the association between AST and MVPA. Results Children and youth who engaged in AST were associated with higher MVPA than those who did not engage in AST (β = 18.020, 95% CI [5.890 to 30.149], p = 0.004), after adjusting for age, gender, and location. In contrast, perceptions of high crime in the neighbourhood (β = − 21.921, CI [−36.195 to −7.647], p = 0.003) and perceptions of air pollution (β = − 12.472, CI [−23.797 to −1.147], p = 0.031) were associated with lower MVPA. Moreover, having active friends was associated with higher MVPA (β = 32.391, CI [9.264 to 55.518], p = 0.006) than not having active friends. AST was significantly associated with higher MVPA in the boys, rural, and aged 13 to 17 models; however, this association was not statistically significant in the girls, urban, and aged 5 to 12 models. Conclusions These findings highlight that promoting AST can potentially promote MVPA and contribute to mitigating the NCD burden among children and youth in India. Future policies and interventions should prioritize initiatives that promote AST, considering diverse sociodemographic factors, and addressing environmental challenges such as perceptions of crime and air pollution.
Katapally et al. (2024) The critical need for child and youth perceptions of active living in India: capturing context complexity in rural and urban regions. PeerJ 12:e18350 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18350
Differences in cardiovascular disease mortality between northern and southern China under exposure to different temperatures: a systematic review
Background Due to differences in climate and other environmental factors, exposure to different temperatures in China has different effects on the relative risk (RR) of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. It is therefore important to compare the effects of exposure to different temperatures on CVD mortality in different regions of China. Methods To compare these effects, we performed a meta-analysis of 21 studies identified by a search of the Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases from January 1, 2014 to January 1, 2024. We performed the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics test to evaluate heterogeneity and Egger’s test to evaluate publication bias. Results The pooled estimated size of the relationship between exposure to different temperatures and CVD mortality was 1.60 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.42–1.80]) for the extreme cold, 1.17 (95% CI [1.10–1.25]) for the extreme heat, and 1.16 (95% CI [1.10–1.24]) for extremely high diurnal temperature range (DTR). The Egger’s test showed potential publication bias in studies analyzing both the extreme cold and the extreme heat. Discussion Extreme cold, extreme heat, and extremely high DTR are associated with an increase in CVD mortality in China, with extreme cold having the most significant effect. Residents of northern regions are more susceptible to high temperatures, while residents of southern regions are more sensitive to low temperatures.
Zhai et al. (2024) Differences in cardiovascular disease mortality between northern and southern China under exposure to different temperatures: a systematic review. PeerJ 12:e18355 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18355