PeerJ
type: channel
link: https://peerj.com/articles/
description: Articles published in PeerJ
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
publication name: PeerJ
issn: 2167-8359
items: Retrospective study on the association between paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals and childhood leukemia in Michoacán de Ocampo, México
items: Auditory processing ability in Thai native speakers with the Gaps-In-Noise (GIN) test
items: Analysis of the chitin synthase gene family in Ganoderma lucidum: its structure, phylogeny, and expression patterns
items: CD81 inhibits the proliferation of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia cells
items: Biocontrol-relevant diversity of wheat-associated Pseudomonas: prevalence of P. sivasensis and identification of the novel species P. arvensis sp. nov.
items: Gardnerella species exhibit synergy in their ability to displace Lactobacillus crispatus adhered to HeLa cells
items: MicroRNA-597-3p targets MACC1 to suppress proliferation and invasion of human ovarian cancer cells
items: Quantifying the scale dependence of primary productivity-species-richness relationships
items: Cognitive domain-specific impairments and associated risk factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional observational study based on neuropsychological assessment from Xiamen, China
items: A machine learning approach to managing game bird introductions

Retrospective study on the association between paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals and childhood leukemia in Michoacán de Ocampo, México
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Objectives The constant use of agrochemicals in avocado plantations, because of their susceptibility to pests and diseases, continuously exposes those who work or reside near these orchards to health risks. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between childhood leukemia cases in Michoacán, paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals, and environmental exposure due to residential proximity. Methods A retrospective observational cohort study was performed. We analyzed 430 cases of leukemia in children under 18 years of age diagnosed between 2010-2023. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, adjusted for sociodemographic factors. Survival was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves. Results A total of 46.6% of the parents of children with leukemia in this study had jobs related to the use of agrochemicals (e.g., day laborers, peasants, farmers). Additionally, 65.4% of the leukemia cases occurred in municipalities producing avocado, the most important perennial crop in the state. Regarding the residential area analysis (mapping), many cases were found in contiguous zip codes and in areas densely occupied by avocado orchards. In addition, paternal occupations related to agrochemical use were associated with the avocado-growing zone, with an OR = 1.764 (95% CI [1.034–3.009], p = 0.0379). Interestingly, survival associated with agrochemical-related occupations has a higher mean survival (139.3 months) than all other parental occupations (p = 0.0148). Conclusions The epidemiologic evidence found in this study supports the association between paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals and childhood leukemia. Furthermore, children with leukemia who live in avocado-growing regions have a higher survival rate.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Paola Jiménez-Alcántar
creator: Anel Gómez-García
creator: Joel E. López-Meza
creator: Alejandra Ochoa-Zarzosa
creator: Luis Andrés Espino-Barajas
creator: Luis Miguel Morales-Manilla
creator: Eloy Pérez-Rivera
creator: Luz Yadira Zúñiga-Quijano
creator: Sergio Gutiérrez-Castellanos
subject: Epidemiology
subject: Hematology
subject: Oncology
subject: Pediatrics
subject: Environmental Health
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20219
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Jiménez-Alcántar et al.
abstract: Objectives The constant use of agrochemicals in avocado plantations, because of their susceptibility to pests and diseases, continuously exposes those who work or reside near these orchards to health risks. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between childhood leukemia cases in Michoacán, paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals, and environmental exposure due to residential proximity. Methods A retrospective observational cohort study was performed. We analyzed 430 cases of leukemia in children under 18 years of age diagnosed between 2010-2023. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, adjusted for sociodemographic factors. Survival was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves. Results A total of 46.6% of the parents of children with leukemia in this study had jobs related to the use of agrochemicals (e.g., day laborers, peasants, farmers). Additionally, 65.4% of the leukemia cases occurred in municipalities producing avocado, the most important perennial crop in the state. Regarding the residential area analysis (mapping), many cases were found in contiguous zip codes and in areas densely occupied by avocado orchards. In addition, paternal occupations related to agrochemical use were associated with the avocado-growing zone, with an OR = 1.764 (95% CI [1.034–3.009], p = 0.0379). Interestingly, survival associated with agrochemical-related occupations has a higher mean survival (139.3 months) than all other parental occupations (p = 0.0148). Conclusions The epidemiologic evidence found in this study supports the association between paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals and childhood leukemia. Furthermore, children with leukemia who live in avocado-growing regions have a higher survival rate.
bibliographic citation: Jiménez-Alcántar et al. (2025) Retrospective study on the association between paternal occupational exposure to agrochemicals and childhood leukemia in Michoacán de Ocampo, México. PeerJ 13:e20219 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20219
date submitted: 2025-03-20
date accepted: 2025-09-20
issued: 2025-11-06
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
author list: Agent
  family name: Jiménez-Alcántar
  given name: Paola
author list: Agent
  family name: Gómez-García
  given name: Anel
author list: Agent
  family name: López-Meza
  given name: Joel E.
author list: Agent
  family name: Ochoa-Zarzosa
  given name: Alejandra
author list: Agent
  family name: Espino-Barajas
  given name: Luis Andrés
author list: Agent
  family name: Morales-Manilla
  given name: Luis Miguel
author list: Agent
  family name: Pérez-Rivera
  given name: Eloy
author list: Agent
  family name: Zúñiga-Quijano
  given name: Luz Yadira
author list: Agent
  family name: Gutiérrez-Castellanos
  given name: Sergio
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20219
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-06
copyright: ©2025 Jiménez-Alcántar et al.
attribution name: Jiménez-Alcántar et al.

Auditory processing ability in Thai native speakers with the Gaps-In-Noise (GIN) test
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Introduction Auditory processing disorder (APD) arises from dysfunctions within the central auditory nervous system (CANS). One key tool for assessing temporal auditory processing capabilities is the Gaps-In-Noise (GIN) test. While the GIN test serves as a critical tool, its accuracy may be influenced by linguistic factors. This research aims to establish preliminary normative data for the GIN test among young adult native Thai speakers and to compare potential performance differences across ears and various linguistic backgrounds. Methods This study included 52 native Thai speakers aged 18 to 25, all of whom had normal hearing confirmed through pure-tone audiometry, to examine auditory processing using the GIN test. The testing was conducted in an anechoic chamber to ensure standardized conditions. The results were analyzed based on the approximate gap-detection threshold (A.th.) value and the overall percent correct (OPC) value metrics. Results The study revealed that, among young adult native Thai speakers, the A.th. values were 5.12–0.81 milliseconds (ms.) in the right ear, 5.08–0.81 ms. in the left ear, and 5.04–0.68 ms. for both ears. The corresponding averages of OPC values were 69.94–7.66% for the right ear, 71.37–7.21% for the left ear, and 71.35–6.72% for both ears, respectively. While no significant differences were observed in the threshold between ears, a notable discrepancy in response accuracy was noted, with the right ear showing lower accuracy than the left ear. Significant differences were also found when compared to English, Korean, and Portuguese language users, but not when compared to Polish language users. Conclusion The study revealed comparable temporal processing abilities among young adult native Thai speakers, as indicated by similar A.th. values across both ears. However, differences in the OPC value responses suggest potential asymmetries in auditory processing mechanisms. Additionally, linguistic factors appeared to influence the outco…
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Supakarn Jeanbunjongkij
creator: Pawichaya Suphinnapong
creator: Patcharaorn Limkitisupasin
creator: Yuttana Roongthumskul
creator: Nattawan Utoomprurkporn
subject: Neuroscience
subject: Neurology
subject: Otorhinolaryngology
subject: Psychiatry and Psychology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20207
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Jeanbunjongkij et al.
abstract: Introduction Auditory processing disorder (APD) arises from dysfunctions within the central auditory nervous system (CANS). One key tool for assessing temporal auditory processing capabilities is the Gaps-In-Noise (GIN) test. While the GIN test serves as a critical tool, its accuracy may be influenced by linguistic factors. This research aims to establish preliminary normative data for the GIN test among young adult native Thai speakers and to compare potential performance differences across ears and various linguistic backgrounds. Methods This study included 52 native Thai speakers aged 18 to 25, all of whom had normal hearing confirmed through pure-tone audiometry, to examine auditory processing using the GIN test. The testing was conducted in an anechoic chamber to ensure standardized conditions. The results were analyzed based on the approximate gap-detection threshold (A.th.) value and the overall percent correct (OPC) value metrics. Results The study revealed that, among young adult native Thai speakers, the A.th. values were 5.12–0.81 milliseconds (ms.) in the right ear, 5.08–0.81 ms. in the left ear, and 5.04–0.68 ms. for both ears. The corresponding averages of OPC values were 69.94–7.66% for the right ear, 71.37–7.21% for the left ear, and 71.35–6.72% for both ears, respectively. While no significant differences were observed in the threshold between ears, a notable discrepancy in response accuracy was noted, with the right ear showing lower accuracy than the left ear. Significant differences were also found when compared to English, Korean, and Portuguese language users, but not when compared to Polish language users. Conclusion The study revealed comparable temporal processing abilities among young adult native Thai speakers, as indicated by similar A.th. values across both ears. However, differences in the OPC value responses suggest potential asymmetries in auditory processing mechanisms. Additionally, linguistic factors appeared to influence the outco…
bibliographic citation: Jeanbunjongkij et al. (2025) Auditory processing ability in Thai native speakers with the Gaps-In-Noise (GIN) test. PeerJ 13:e20207 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20207
date submitted: 2025-03-05
date accepted: 2025-09-18
issued: 2025-11-06
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Jeanbunjongkij
  given name: Supakarn
author list: Agent
  family name: Suphinnapong
  given name: Pawichaya
author list: Agent
  family name: Limkitisupasin
  given name: Patcharaorn
author list: Agent
  family name: Roongthumskul
  given name: Yuttana
author list: Agent
  family name: Utoomprurkporn
  given name: Nattawan
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20207
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-06
copyright: ©2025 Jeanbunjongkij et al.
attribution name: Jeanbunjongkij et al.

Analysis of the chitin synthase gene family in Ganoderma lucidum: its structure, phylogeny, and expression patterns
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Chitin synthases are essential enzymes in fungi, contributing to various biological processes such as hyphal growth, sporulation, and cell wall stability. Despite their well-documented functions in other fungal species, the specific roles of chitin synthases in Ganoderma lucidum remain unexplored. This investigation systematically characterized the complete chitin synthase gene family in Ganoderma lucidum. Methods A comprehensive analysis was conducted using bioinformatics tools to examine genomic localization, gene structure, conserved domains, and phylogenetic evolution. By employing bioinformatic approaches, the study investigated promoter cis-elements and expression patterns to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of these genes in G. lucidum. Results In G. lucidum, eight chitin synthase (GlCS) family members were identified and phylogenetically classified into five distinct classes. Our investigation revealed stage-specific expression patterns of GlCS genes throughout the fungal development process. GlCS1, GlCS2, GlCS5, GlCS6, and GlCS8 exhibited significantly greater expression levels in the early fruiting body (EA) stage than in the other developmental phases. In the mature fruiting body (MA) stage, GlCS3 was predominantly expressed. In the primordium formation (PR) stage, GlCS7 exhibited peak expression levels. Six genes (GlCS1, GlCS3, GlCS4, GlCS6, GlCS7, and GlCS8) were markedly upregulated under 40 °C thermal stress, suggesting their potential roles in thermotolerance mechanisms. These findings demonstrate functional diversification among GlCS family members across different developmental stages and stress conditions.
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creator: Linling Liu
creator: Yiming Yang
creator: Jintao Li
creator: Yanliang Gao
creator: Meixia Yan
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Bioinformatics
subject: Mycology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20302
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Liu et al.
abstract: Background Chitin synthases are essential enzymes in fungi, contributing to various biological processes such as hyphal growth, sporulation, and cell wall stability. Despite their well-documented functions in other fungal species, the specific roles of chitin synthases in Ganoderma lucidum remain unexplored. This investigation systematically characterized the complete chitin synthase gene family in Ganoderma lucidum. Methods A comprehensive analysis was conducted using bioinformatics tools to examine genomic localization, gene structure, conserved domains, and phylogenetic evolution. By employing bioinformatic approaches, the study investigated promoter cis-elements and expression patterns to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of these genes in G. lucidum. Results In G. lucidum, eight chitin synthase (GlCS) family members were identified and phylogenetically classified into five distinct classes. Our investigation revealed stage-specific expression patterns of GlCS genes throughout the fungal development process. GlCS1, GlCS2, GlCS5, GlCS6, and GlCS8 exhibited significantly greater expression levels in the early fruiting body (EA) stage than in the other developmental phases. In the mature fruiting body (MA) stage, GlCS3 was predominantly expressed. In the primordium formation (PR) stage, GlCS7 exhibited peak expression levels. Six genes (GlCS1, GlCS3, GlCS4, GlCS6, GlCS7, and GlCS8) were markedly upregulated under 40 °C thermal stress, suggesting their potential roles in thermotolerance mechanisms. These findings demonstrate functional diversification among GlCS family members across different developmental stages and stress conditions.
bibliographic citation: Liu et al. (2025) Analysis of the chitin synthase gene family in Ganoderma lucidum: its structure, phylogeny, and expression patterns. PeerJ 13:e20302 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20302
date submitted: 2025-07-09
date accepted: 2025-10-07
issued: 2025-11-05
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Linling
author list: Agent
  family name: Yang
  given name: Yiming
author list: Agent
  family name: Li
  given name: Jintao
author list: Agent
  family name: Gao
  given name: Yanliang
author list: Agent
  family name: Yan
  given name: Meixia
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20302
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-05
copyright: ©2025 Liu et al.
attribution name: Liu et al.

CD81 inhibits the proliferation of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia cells
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: CD81 is a cell surface protein that plays an important part in tumor development. Several studies have shown that CD81 plays a role in cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, particularly in leukemia. It has been reported that CD81 is overexpressed in non-Down syndrome acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (non-DS AMKL). In this article, we hypothesize that CD81 may play a vital role in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL). We constructed the CD81 knockdown cell line using shRNA and found that CD81 knockout can inhibit the proliferation of AMKL and increase the apoptosis of AMKL in vitro. Therefore, CD81 may be a target of AMKL.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Narun Su
creator: Xiaohao Hu
subject: Cell Biology
subject: Molecular Biology
subject: Hematology
subject: Pediatrics
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20286
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Su and Hu
abstract: CD81 is a cell surface protein that plays an important part in tumor development. Several studies have shown that CD81 plays a role in cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, particularly in leukemia. It has been reported that CD81 is overexpressed in non-Down syndrome acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (non-DS AMKL). In this article, we hypothesize that CD81 may play a vital role in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL). We constructed the CD81 knockdown cell line using shRNA and found that CD81 knockout can inhibit the proliferation of AMKL and increase the apoptosis of AMKL in vitro. Therefore, CD81 may be a target of AMKL.
bibliographic citation: Su et al. (2025) CD81 inhibits the proliferation of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia cells. PeerJ 13:e20286 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20286
date submitted: 2025-03-10
date accepted: 2025-10-02
issued: 2025-11-05
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Su
  given name: Narun
author list: Agent
  family name: Hu
  given name: Xiaohao
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20286
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-05
copyright: ©2025 Su and Hu
attribution name: Su and Hu

Biocontrol-relevant diversity of wheat-associated Pseudomonas: prevalence of P. sivasensis and identification of the novel species P. arvensis sp. nov.
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: The role of microbial communities in plant health and productivity has become increasingly evident. In this study, we investigated the diversity and functional potential of Pseudomonas spp. associated with Belgian cereal crops, focusing on wheat and spelt. From 444 Pseudomonas isolates, we identified 11 species, with several strains exhibiting strong antagonistic activity against major wheat pathogens. Notably, we report the high prevalence and efficient colonization abilities of Pseudomonas sivasensis, including its capacity to translocate from seed to leaf and suppress Zymoseptoria tritici infection in planta. Furthermore, we describe Pseudomonas arvensis sp. nov., a newly characterized species within the wheat microbiome, with DR1PS3 designated as the type strain. Our results advance the understanding of beneficial plant-microbe interactions in cereals and highlight the promise of native Pseudomonas species as biocontrol agents for sustainable disease management.
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format: text/html
creator: Mathieu Delitte
creator: Benjamin Dubois
creator: Louis Morandini
creator: Alain Bultreys
creator: Jacques Mahillon
creator: Frederic Debode
creator: Claude Bragard
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Microbiology
subject: Mycology
subject: Plant Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20177
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Delitte et al.
abstract: The role of microbial communities in plant health and productivity has become increasingly evident. In this study, we investigated the diversity and functional potential of Pseudomonas spp. associated with Belgian cereal crops, focusing on wheat and spelt. From 444 Pseudomonas isolates, we identified 11 species, with several strains exhibiting strong antagonistic activity against major wheat pathogens. Notably, we report the high prevalence and efficient colonization abilities of Pseudomonas sivasensis, including its capacity to translocate from seed to leaf and suppress Zymoseptoria tritici infection in planta. Furthermore, we describe Pseudomonas arvensis sp. nov., a newly characterized species within the wheat microbiome, with DR1PS3 designated as the type strain. Our results advance the understanding of beneficial plant-microbe interactions in cereals and highlight the promise of native Pseudomonas species as biocontrol agents for sustainable disease management.
bibliographic citation: Delitte et al. (2025) Biocontrol-relevant diversity of wheat-associated Pseudomonas: prevalence of P. sivasensis and identification of the novel species P. arvensis sp. nov.. PeerJ 13:e20177 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20177
date submitted: 2024-08-28
date accepted: 2025-09-12
issued: 2025-11-05
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Delitte
  given name: Mathieu
author list: Agent
  family name: Dubois
  given name: Benjamin
author list: Agent
  family name: Morandini
  given name: Louis
author list: Agent
  family name: Bultreys
  given name: Alain
author list: Agent
  family name: Mahillon
  given name: Jacques
author list: Agent
  family name: Debode
  given name: Frederic
author list: Agent
  family name: Bragard
  given name: Claude
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20177
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-05
copyright: ©2025 Delitte et al.
attribution name: Delitte et al.

Gardnerella species exhibit synergy in their ability to displace Lactobacillus crispatus adhered to HeLa cells
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection in reproductive-age women. It is associated with adverse pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth and low birth weight, in addition to an increased risk of acquisition of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. BV is characterized by a vaginal dysbiosis, involving loss of protective Lactobacillus species (including L. crispatus) and overgrowth of facultative and strict anaerobic bacteria, with Gardnerella species playing a predominant role. However, despite extensive research on BV pathogenesis, its etiology remains unclear, and the sequence of events leading to the displacement of lactobacilli by anaerobic bacteria in women has not yet been fully elucidated. Until 2019, all bacteria belonging to the Gardnerella genus were considered part of the species G. vaginalis. However, it is now recognized that different Gardnerella species exist, each with varying virulence potentials. Recent data have shown that multiple subgroups of Gardnerella spp. are frequently detected simultaneously in the vaginal microbiota of women with BV. With this in mind, we aimed to test the hypothesis that different combinations of known Gardnerella species, isolated from the vaginal microbiota of women with BV, have an enhanced ability to compete against Lactobacillus crispatus, pre-adhered to HeLa cells, thereby facilitating the early stages of BV development. Methods Adhesion assays of dual combinations of Gardnerella spp. (G. vaginalis, G. leopoldii, G. swidsinskii, G. piotii) were performed on an in vitro model of HeLa cells, covered with and without L. crispatus. Quantification of the species used in our assays was subsequently performed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results Our results revealed synergy between different Gardnerella spp., demonstrating their ability to overcome the presumed protective effect of L. crispatus, thereby creating favorable conditions for the development of a…
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format: text/html
creator: Ângela Lima
creator: Joana Castro
creator: Christina A. Muzny
creator: Nuno Cerca
subject: Microbiology
subject: Gynecology and Obstetrics
subject: Infectious Diseases
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20076
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Lima et al.
abstract: Background Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection in reproductive-age women. It is associated with adverse pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth and low birth weight, in addition to an increased risk of acquisition of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. BV is characterized by a vaginal dysbiosis, involving loss of protective Lactobacillus species (including L. crispatus) and overgrowth of facultative and strict anaerobic bacteria, with Gardnerella species playing a predominant role. However, despite extensive research on BV pathogenesis, its etiology remains unclear, and the sequence of events leading to the displacement of lactobacilli by anaerobic bacteria in women has not yet been fully elucidated. Until 2019, all bacteria belonging to the Gardnerella genus were considered part of the species G. vaginalis. However, it is now recognized that different Gardnerella species exist, each with varying virulence potentials. Recent data have shown that multiple subgroups of Gardnerella spp. are frequently detected simultaneously in the vaginal microbiota of women with BV. With this in mind, we aimed to test the hypothesis that different combinations of known Gardnerella species, isolated from the vaginal microbiota of women with BV, have an enhanced ability to compete against Lactobacillus crispatus, pre-adhered to HeLa cells, thereby facilitating the early stages of BV development. Methods Adhesion assays of dual combinations of Gardnerella spp. (G. vaginalis, G. leopoldii, G. swidsinskii, G. piotii) were performed on an in vitro model of HeLa cells, covered with and without L. crispatus. Quantification of the species used in our assays was subsequently performed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results Our results revealed synergy between different Gardnerella spp., demonstrating their ability to overcome the presumed protective effect of L. crispatus, thereby creating favorable conditions for the development of a…
bibliographic citation: Lima et al. (2025) Gardnerella species exhibit synergy in their ability to displace Lactobacillus crispatus adhered to HeLa cells. PeerJ 13:e20076 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20076
date submitted: 2025-05-08
date accepted: 2025-08-22
issued: 2025-11-05
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Lima
  given name: Ângela
author list: Agent
  family name: Castro
  given name: Joana
author list: Agent
  family name: Muzny
  given name: Christina A.
author list: Agent
  family name: Cerca
  given name: Nuno
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20076
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-05
copyright: ©2025 Lima et al.
attribution name: Lima et al.

MicroRNA-597-3p targets MACC1 to suppress proliferation and invasion of human ovarian cancer cells
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Ovarian cancer is a lethal gynecological malignancy, largely due to late-stage diagnosis and poor prognosis. MicroRNA-597-3p (miR-597-3p) has been identified as a tumor suppressor in several cancers, while metastasis-associated colon cancer 1 (MACC1) functions as an oncogene that promotes metastasis. This study investigated the role of miR-597-3p and its regulation of MACC1 in ovarian cancer progression. Methods Ovarian cancer cell lines and the normal ovarian epithelial cell line IOSE-398 were used. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) measured the expression of miR-597-3p and MACC1. Functional assays (MTT, colony formation, AO/EB staining, and Transwell invasion) evaluated cell proliferation, cell death, and invasion. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed the interaction between miR-597-3p and MACC1, while bioinformatics analysis identified potential targets. Western blotting was used to validate MACC1 and downstream proteins, MMP-2, and MMP-9 at the protein level. Results MiR-597-3p was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05) in ovarian cancer cells, whereas MACC1 was upregulated. Overexpression of miR-597-3p suppressed cell viability, colony formation, and invasion, and increased cell death with a pro-apoptotic shift in Bax/Bcl-2 expression. Mechanistically, miR-597-3p directly targeted MACC1, leading to reduced expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 at both transcript and protein levels. Notably, MACC1 overexpression reversed the tumor-suppressive effects of miR-597-3p. Conclusions MiR-597-3p functions as a tumor suppressor in ovarian cancer by directly targeting MACC1, thereby inhibiting proliferation, invasion, and survival. These findings highlight the miR-597-3p/MACC1 axis as a potential therapeutic target and suggest miR-597-3p as a promising biomarker for ovarian cancer.
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format: text/html
creator: Ahmed Abdullah Al Awadh
creator: Abdulaziz M.S. Alqahtani
creator: Fahad Alshahrani
creator: Mohammed Merae Alshahrani
subject: Cell Biology
subject: Molecular Biology
subject: Oncology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20316
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Al Awadh et al.
abstract: Background Ovarian cancer is a lethal gynecological malignancy, largely due to late-stage diagnosis and poor prognosis. MicroRNA-597-3p (miR-597-3p) has been identified as a tumor suppressor in several cancers, while metastasis-associated colon cancer 1 (MACC1) functions as an oncogene that promotes metastasis. This study investigated the role of miR-597-3p and its regulation of MACC1 in ovarian cancer progression. Methods Ovarian cancer cell lines and the normal ovarian epithelial cell line IOSE-398 were used. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) measured the expression of miR-597-3p and MACC1. Functional assays (MTT, colony formation, AO/EB staining, and Transwell invasion) evaluated cell proliferation, cell death, and invasion. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed the interaction between miR-597-3p and MACC1, while bioinformatics analysis identified potential targets. Western blotting was used to validate MACC1 and downstream proteins, MMP-2, and MMP-9 at the protein level. Results MiR-597-3p was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05) in ovarian cancer cells, whereas MACC1 was upregulated. Overexpression of miR-597-3p suppressed cell viability, colony formation, and invasion, and increased cell death with a pro-apoptotic shift in Bax/Bcl-2 expression. Mechanistically, miR-597-3p directly targeted MACC1, leading to reduced expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 at both transcript and protein levels. Notably, MACC1 overexpression reversed the tumor-suppressive effects of miR-597-3p. Conclusions MiR-597-3p functions as a tumor suppressor in ovarian cancer by directly targeting MACC1, thereby inhibiting proliferation, invasion, and survival. These findings highlight the miR-597-3p/MACC1 axis as a potential therapeutic target and suggest miR-597-3p as a promising biomarker for ovarian cancer.
bibliographic citation: Al Awadh et al. (2025) MicroRNA-597-3p targets MACC1 to suppress proliferation and invasion of human ovarian cancer cells. PeerJ 13:e20316 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20316
date submitted: 2025-05-08
date accepted: 2025-10-09
issued: 2025-11-04
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
author list: Agent
  family name: Al Awadh
  given name: Ahmed Abdullah
author list: Agent
  family name: Alqahtani
  given name: Abdulaziz M.S.
author list: Agent
  family name: Alshahrani
  given name: Fahad
author list: Agent
  family name: Alshahrani
  given name: Mohammed Merae
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20316
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-04
copyright: ©2025 Al Awadh et al.
attribution name: Al Awadh et al.

Quantifying the scale dependence of primary productivity-species-richness relationships
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Vegetation productivity is expected to correlate with species richness, but there is debate about whether the relationship form (non-existent, negative, positive, unimodal) of productivity-species-richness relationships (PSRR) depends on the spatial extent and productivity measure used. Previous assessments employed coarse distance categories to examine scale dependence and did not consider scale dependence for alternative productivity measures. I used spatially varying coefficient models to precisely estimate the distances over which PSRRs change and to map spatial patterns of form for breeding birds across the conterminous United States. I created separate models for three measures summarizing intra-annual estimates of gross primary productivity: sum, minimum, and seasonality (coefficient of variation). Models demonstrated that PSRRs were scale-dependent, and PSRR relationships changed at median distances ranging from 1,010 to 2,184 km depending on the productivity measure. Previously used coarse distance categories would not have resolved the modeled distance estimates. Differences in median distance estimates across productivity measures were not statistically important. Across measures, PSRR form generally alternated between non-existence and positive, but there were pockets where seasonality negatively related to species richness in the western United States. While spatial patterns of form differed across measures, species richness in a small region of the western United States displayed a positive association with all three measures. Spatial patterns were related to prevailing productivity conditions. For example, sum tended to have a positive association with bird species richness in areas characterized by low annual productivity. This study novelly applies spatially varying coefficient models to address the long-debated scale-dependence of PSRR form, and the same approach is broadly applicable across geographies and taxonomic groups.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Brian G. Tavernia
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Ecology
subject: Spatial and Geographic Information Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20297
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Tavernia
abstract: Vegetation productivity is expected to correlate with species richness, but there is debate about whether the relationship form (non-existent, negative, positive, unimodal) of productivity-species-richness relationships (PSRR) depends on the spatial extent and productivity measure used. Previous assessments employed coarse distance categories to examine scale dependence and did not consider scale dependence for alternative productivity measures. I used spatially varying coefficient models to precisely estimate the distances over which PSRRs change and to map spatial patterns of form for breeding birds across the conterminous United States. I created separate models for three measures summarizing intra-annual estimates of gross primary productivity: sum, minimum, and seasonality (coefficient of variation). Models demonstrated that PSRRs were scale-dependent, and PSRR relationships changed at median distances ranging from 1,010 to 2,184 km depending on the productivity measure. Previously used coarse distance categories would not have resolved the modeled distance estimates. Differences in median distance estimates across productivity measures were not statistically important. Across measures, PSRR form generally alternated between non-existence and positive, but there were pockets where seasonality negatively related to species richness in the western United States. While spatial patterns of form differed across measures, species richness in a small region of the western United States displayed a positive association with all three measures. Spatial patterns were related to prevailing productivity conditions. For example, sum tended to have a positive association with bird species richness in areas characterized by low annual productivity. This study novelly applies spatially varying coefficient models to address the long-debated scale-dependence of PSRR form, and the same approach is broadly applicable across geographies and taxonomic groups.
bibliographic citation: Tavernia (2025) Quantifying the scale dependence of primary productivity-species-richness relationships. PeerJ 13:e20297 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20297
date submitted: 2025-07-12
date accepted: 2025-10-06
issued: 2025-11-04
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Tavernia
  given name: Brian G.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20297
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-04
copyright: ©2025 Tavernia
attribution name: Tavernia

Cognitive domain-specific impairments and associated risk factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional observational study based on neuropsychological assessment from Xiamen, China
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment, yet limited research has been conducted in subtropical regions of China. Objective To examine the characteristics of cognitive impairment and identify the potential risk factors in patients with T2DM in Xiamen. Methods This cross-sectional observational study included 84 patients with T2DM from Zhongshan Hospital Xiamen University. Patients were grouped based on their Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores into a cognitively impaired group (T2DM-CI group, n = 52) and a cognitively normal group (T2DM-NCI group, n = 32). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors. Results Among the 52 patients in the T2DM-CI group, the most commonly affected cognitive domains were executive function (82.7%), language (75.0%), memory (61.5%), and attention (48.1%), with 59.6% exhibiting impairments in three or more domains. Compared with the T2DM-NCI group, the T2DM-CI group showed poorer performance in most MoCA subdomains—including visuospatial/executive function, language, delayed recall, abstraction, and orientation—as well as in individual cognitive domain tests (all P < 0.05), except for the Clock Drawing Test. Older age (OR = 1.167, 95% CI [1.045–1.303], P = 0.006) and higher lipoprotein (a) levels (OR = 1.109, 95% CI [1.020–1.205], P = 0.015) were independently associated with cognitive impairment in T2DM patients. Conclusion Cognitive impairment in T2DM affects multiple domains, with executive dysfunction most prominent. Age and elevated lipoprotein(a) may increase risk. Routine cognitive screening is warranted, particularly in older patients and those with vascular risk factors.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Xueling Xiao
creator: Luling Chen
creator: Jingqi Liu
creator: Jiayan Cai
creator: Manxiang Deng
subject: Cognitive Disorders
subject: Diabetes and Endocrinology
subject: Neurology
subject: Metabolic Sciences
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20292
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Xiao et al.
abstract: Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment, yet limited research has been conducted in subtropical regions of China. Objective To examine the characteristics of cognitive impairment and identify the potential risk factors in patients with T2DM in Xiamen. Methods This cross-sectional observational study included 84 patients with T2DM from Zhongshan Hospital Xiamen University. Patients were grouped based on their Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores into a cognitively impaired group (T2DM-CI group, n = 52) and a cognitively normal group (T2DM-NCI group, n = 32). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors. Results Among the 52 patients in the T2DM-CI group, the most commonly affected cognitive domains were executive function (82.7%), language (75.0%), memory (61.5%), and attention (48.1%), with 59.6% exhibiting impairments in three or more domains. Compared with the T2DM-NCI group, the T2DM-CI group showed poorer performance in most MoCA subdomains—including visuospatial/executive function, language, delayed recall, abstraction, and orientation—as well as in individual cognitive domain tests (all P < 0.05), except for the Clock Drawing Test. Older age (OR = 1.167, 95% CI [1.045–1.303], P = 0.006) and higher lipoprotein (a) levels (OR = 1.109, 95% CI [1.020–1.205], P = 0.015) were independently associated with cognitive impairment in T2DM patients. Conclusion Cognitive impairment in T2DM affects multiple domains, with executive dysfunction most prominent. Age and elevated lipoprotein(a) may increase risk. Routine cognitive screening is warranted, particularly in older patients and those with vascular risk factors.
bibliographic citation: Xiao et al. (2025) Cognitive domain-specific impairments and associated risk factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional observational study based on neuropsychological assessment from Xiamen, China. PeerJ 13:e20292 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20292
date submitted: 2025-02-18
date accepted: 2025-10-03
issued: 2025-11-04
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Xiao
  given name: Xueling
author list: Agent
  family name: Chen
  given name: Luling
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Jingqi
author list: Agent
  family name: Cai
  given name: Jiayan
author list: Agent
  family name: Deng
  given name: Manxiang
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20292
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-04
copyright: ©2025 Xiao et al.
attribution name: Xiao et al.

A machine learning approach to managing game bird introductions
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Effective management of introduced species requires a clear understanding of their habitat requirements. Species distribution models (SDMs) offer a powerful tool for addressing this challenge. We applied seven modeling techniques to predict a suitable habitat for the introduced Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar), including artificial neural networks, generalized additive models, k-nearest neighbor, random forests, support vector machines, extreme gradient boosting, and a weighted ensemble approach. Using site-level data on physiography, climate, land cover, and habitat range, we modeled Chukar distributions by simulating historical introduction efforts and extrapolating predictions into surrounding areas to assess cross-regional transferability. Model performance was evaluated using independent, geographically distinct validation datasets. Our results demonstrate that machine learning-based SDMs provide accurate and transferable predictions of Chukar habitat suitability. This study highlights the value of machine learning for predicting establishment success while emphasizing the importance of incorporating species movement behavior and site fidelity into SDM frameworks. Overall, our findings contribute to advancing conservation planning, species reintroductions, and adaptive management strategies.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Austin M. Smith
creator: Wendell P. Cropper, Jr
creator: Michael P. Moulton
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Biogeography
subject: Ecology
subject: Data Mining and Machine Learning
subject: Spatial and Geographic Information Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.20291
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2025 Smith et al.
abstract: Effective management of introduced species requires a clear understanding of their habitat requirements. Species distribution models (SDMs) offer a powerful tool for addressing this challenge. We applied seven modeling techniques to predict a suitable habitat for the introduced Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar), including artificial neural networks, generalized additive models, k-nearest neighbor, random forests, support vector machines, extreme gradient boosting, and a weighted ensemble approach. Using site-level data on physiography, climate, land cover, and habitat range, we modeled Chukar distributions by simulating historical introduction efforts and extrapolating predictions into surrounding areas to assess cross-regional transferability. Model performance was evaluated using independent, geographically distinct validation datasets. Our results demonstrate that machine learning-based SDMs provide accurate and transferable predictions of Chukar habitat suitability. This study highlights the value of machine learning for predicting establishment success while emphasizing the importance of incorporating species movement behavior and site fidelity into SDM frameworks. Overall, our findings contribute to advancing conservation planning, species reintroductions, and adaptive management strategies.
bibliographic citation: Smith et al. (2025) A machine learning approach to managing game bird introductions. PeerJ 13:e20291 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20291
date submitted: 2025-07-03
date accepted: 2025-10-03
issued: 2025-11-04
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Smith
  given name: Austin M.
author list: Agent
  family name: Cropper, Jr
  given name: Wendell P.
author list: Agent
  family name: Moulton
  given name: Michael P.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.20291
volume: 13
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2025-11-04
copyright: ©2025 Smith et al.
attribution name: Smith et al.

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