PeerJ
type: channel
link: https://peerj.com/articles/
description: Articles published in PeerJ
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
publication name: PeerJ
issn: 2167-8359
items: Using feces to indicate plastic pollution in terrestrial vertebrate species in western Thailand
items: Maternal effects, reciprocal differences and combining ability study for yield and its component traits in maize (Zea mays L.) through modified diallel analysis
items: Evaluation of Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) as a diagnostic marker for staging liver fibrosis: a meta-analysis
items: The effects of exercise on FGF21 in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
items: Influence of leaf inclination angle and tillering on population transpiration, soil evaporation, and yield in winter wheat near-isogenic lines
items: Shoulder muscle weakness and proprioceptive impairments in type 2 diabetes mellitus: exploring correlations for improved clinical management
items: Identification and serological responses to a novel Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein 1 (PvMSP-1) derived synthetic peptide: a putative biomarker for malaria exposure
items: Evaluation of genetic variation and host resistance to wheat stem rust pathogen (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties grown in Türkiye
items: The impact of the military conflict in Sudan on maternal health: a mixed qualitative and quantitative study
items: The inorganic pyrophosphatases of microorganisms: a structural and functional review

Using feces to indicate plastic pollution in terrestrial vertebrate species in western Thailand
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Plastic pollution is a widespread and growing concern due to its transformation into microplastics (MPs), which can harm organisms and ecosystems. This study, aimed to identify plastic pollution in the feces of terrestrial vertebrates using convenience sampling both inside and outside protected areas in Western Thailand. We hypothesized that MPs are likely to be detectable in the feces of all vertebrate species, primarily in the form of small black fragments. We predicted varying quantities of MPs in the feces of the same species across different protected areas. Furthermore, we expected that factors indicating human presence, landscape characteristics, scat weight, and the MP abundance in water, soils, and sediments would influence the presence of plastics in feces. Among 12 terrestrial species studied, potential MPs were found in 41.11% of 90 samples, totaling 83 pieces across eight species including the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), Eld’s deer (Rucervus eldii), Dhole (Cuon alpinus), Gaur (Bos gaurus), Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), Wild boar (Sus scrofa), Northern red muntjac (Muntiacus vaginalis), and Butterfly lizard (Leiolepis belliana). Specifically, 3.61% of all potential MPs (three pieces) were macroplastics, and the remaining 96.39% were considered potential MPs with the abundance of 0.92 ± 1.89 items.scat−1 or 8.69 ± 32.56 items.100 g−1 dw. There was an association between the numbers of feces with and without potential plastics and species (χ2 = 20.88, p = 0.012). Most potential plastics were fibers (95.18%), predominantly black (56.63%) or blue (26.51%), with 74.70% smaller than two millimeters. Although there were no significant associations between species and plastic morphologies, colors, and sizes, the abundance classified by these characteristics varied significantly. FTIR identified 52.38% as natural fibers, 38.10% as synthetic fibers (rayon, polyurethane (PUR), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and PUR blended with cotton), …
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Jiraporn Teampanpong
creator: Prateep Duengkae
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Ecology
subject: Zoology
subject: Environmental Impacts
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17596
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Teampanpong and Duengkae
abstract: Plastic pollution is a widespread and growing concern due to its transformation into microplastics (MPs), which can harm organisms and ecosystems. This study, aimed to identify plastic pollution in the feces of terrestrial vertebrates using convenience sampling both inside and outside protected areas in Western Thailand. We hypothesized that MPs are likely to be detectable in the feces of all vertebrate species, primarily in the form of small black fragments. We predicted varying quantities of MPs in the feces of the same species across different protected areas. Furthermore, we expected that factors indicating human presence, landscape characteristics, scat weight, and the MP abundance in water, soils, and sediments would influence the presence of plastics in feces. Among 12 terrestrial species studied, potential MPs were found in 41.11% of 90 samples, totaling 83 pieces across eight species including the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), Eld’s deer (Rucervus eldii), Dhole (Cuon alpinus), Gaur (Bos gaurus), Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), Wild boar (Sus scrofa), Northern red muntjac (Muntiacus vaginalis), and Butterfly lizard (Leiolepis belliana). Specifically, 3.61% of all potential MPs (three pieces) were macroplastics, and the remaining 96.39% were considered potential MPs with the abundance of 0.92 ± 1.89 items.scat−1 or 8.69 ± 32.56 items.100 g−1 dw. There was an association between the numbers of feces with and without potential plastics and species (χ2 = 20.88, p = 0.012). Most potential plastics were fibers (95.18%), predominantly black (56.63%) or blue (26.51%), with 74.70% smaller than two millimeters. Although there were no significant associations between species and plastic morphologies, colors, and sizes, the abundance classified by these characteristics varied significantly. FTIR identified 52.38% as natural fibers, 38.10% as synthetic fibers (rayon, polyurethane (PUR), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and PUR blended with cotton), …
bibliographic citation: Teampanpong et al. (2024) Using feces to indicate plastic pollution in terrestrial vertebrate species in western Thailand. PeerJ 12:e17596 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17596
date submitted: 2024-01-16
date accepted: 2024-05-28
issued: 2024-06-25
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Teampanpong
  given name: Jiraporn
author list: Agent
  family name: Duengkae
  given name: Prateep
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17596
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: © 2024 Teampanpong and Duengkae
attribution name: Teampanpong and Duengkae

Maternal effects, reciprocal differences and combining ability study for yield and its component traits in maize (Zea mays L.) through modified diallel analysis
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Combining ability status of the inbred lines is crucial information for hybrid breeding program. Diallel or line × tester mating designs are frequently used to evaluate the combining ability. In the current study a modified diallel model was used, wherein the Griffing’s combining ability effects were further partitioned to understand the effects due to maternal and reciprocal. To do this, eight parental lines of maize were crossed in full diallel method and the generated hybrids along with parents were phenotyped. The field data on the quantitative traits was analyzed using both Griffing’s and the modified model to determine how well the parents’ and the F1 hybrids combined. For each of the traits, a sizable reciprocal and maternal variance was observed. The number of kernel rows per cob variable had a ratio of additive variance to dominance variance greater than one. All other traits including grain yield had a ratio close to zero, suggesting that non-additive gene action was primarily responsible for the genetic control of most of the traits. The narrow sense heritability was low to moderate for majority of the variables, except for number of kernel rows per cob. With the help of the improved model, it was possible to choose superior parents and cross-parent pairings with accuracy. Based on the modified general combining ability effects and maternal effects, the parental line P5 was recognized as a potential female parent and P7 as a good male parent for grain yield and yield-attributing characteristics. The cross combination of P8×P1 had the highest specific combining ability effect on grain yield. P5×P6 cross had the highest reciprocal effect. The correlation analysis implies that the Griffing’s general combining ability effects and specific combining ability effects were found to be less efficient in predicting F1 performance as compared to the modified model.
format: application/pdf
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creator: Bonipas Antony John
creator: Rajashekhar Mahantaswami Kachapur
creator: Gopalakrishna Naidu
creator: Sidramappa Channappa Talekar
creator: Zerka Rashid
creator: Bindiganavile S. Vivek
creator: Nagesh Patne
creator: Shiddappa Ramappa Salakinkop
creator: Prema GU
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Genetics
subject: Plant Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17600
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Antony John et al.
abstract: Combining ability status of the inbred lines is crucial information for hybrid breeding program. Diallel or line × tester mating designs are frequently used to evaluate the combining ability. In the current study a modified diallel model was used, wherein the Griffing’s combining ability effects were further partitioned to understand the effects due to maternal and reciprocal. To do this, eight parental lines of maize were crossed in full diallel method and the generated hybrids along with parents were phenotyped. The field data on the quantitative traits was analyzed using both Griffing’s and the modified model to determine how well the parents’ and the F1 hybrids combined. For each of the traits, a sizable reciprocal and maternal variance was observed. The number of kernel rows per cob variable had a ratio of additive variance to dominance variance greater than one. All other traits including grain yield had a ratio close to zero, suggesting that non-additive gene action was primarily responsible for the genetic control of most of the traits. The narrow sense heritability was low to moderate for majority of the variables, except for number of kernel rows per cob. With the help of the improved model, it was possible to choose superior parents and cross-parent pairings with accuracy. Based on the modified general combining ability effects and maternal effects, the parental line P5 was recognized as a potential female parent and P7 as a good male parent for grain yield and yield-attributing characteristics. The cross combination of P8×P1 had the highest specific combining ability effect on grain yield. P5×P6 cross had the highest reciprocal effect. The correlation analysis implies that the Griffing’s general combining ability effects and specific combining ability effects were found to be less efficient in predicting F1 performance as compared to the modified model.
bibliographic citation: Antony John et al. (2024) Maternal effects, reciprocal differences and combining ability study for yield and its component traits in maize (Zea mays L.) through modified diallel analysis. PeerJ 12:e17600 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17600
date submitted: 2024-01-29
date accepted: 2024-05-29
issued: 2024-06-25
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Antony John
  given name: Bonipas
author list: Agent
  family name: Kachapur
  given name: Rajashekhar Mahantaswami
author list: Agent
  family name: Naidu
  given name: Gopalakrishna
author list: Agent
  family name: Talekar
  given name: Sidramappa Channappa
author list: Agent
  family name: Rashid
  given name: Zerka
author list: Agent
  family name: Vivek
  given name: Bindiganavile S.
author list: Agent
  family name: Patne
  given name: Nagesh
author list: Agent
  family name: Salakinkop
  given name: Shiddappa Ramappa
author list: Agent
  family name: GU
  given name: Prema
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17600
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: ©2024 Antony John et al.
attribution name: Antony John et al.

Evaluation of Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) as a diagnostic marker for staging liver fibrosis: a meta-analysis
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Objective This study aimed to assess the accuracy of Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) in predicting the stage of liver fibrosis. Methods Articles published until October 10, 2023, were searched in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), summary receiver–operator curves (SROC), and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used to examine the accuracy of M2BPGi in predicting the stage of liver fibrosis. A 95% confidence interval (CI) was provided for each estimate. Results Twenty-four studies were included in this meta-analysis, including 3,839 patients with liver fibrosis, 409 of whom progressed to stage 4 or above. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC (AUC) for M2BPGi predicting liver fibrosis ≥F3 were 0.74 (95% CI [0.65–0.82]), 0.84 (95% CI [0.76–0.89]), and 14.99 (95% CI [9.28–24.21]), respectively. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC for ≥F4 were 0.80 (95% CI [0.70–0.88]), 0.80 (95% CI [0.73–0.86]), and 16.43 (95% CI [0.84–0.90]), respectively. Conclusion Among different sample partitions, M2BPGi has the best diagnostic performance for liver fibrosis stage ≥4. Furthermore, the cutoff of 1–2 is more accurate than that of 0–1 or 2–3 for fibrosis ≥ F3 and ≥ F4. Registration CRD42023483260.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Siyao Gong
creator: Xin Yu
creator: Qian Li
creator: Ming Chen
creator: Shuguang Yu
creator: Sha Yang
subject: Evidence Based Medicine
subject: Gastroenterology and Hepatology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17611
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Gong et al.
abstract: Objective This study aimed to assess the accuracy of Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) in predicting the stage of liver fibrosis. Methods Articles published until October 10, 2023, were searched in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), summary receiver–operator curves (SROC), and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used to examine the accuracy of M2BPGi in predicting the stage of liver fibrosis. A 95% confidence interval (CI) was provided for each estimate. Results Twenty-four studies were included in this meta-analysis, including 3,839 patients with liver fibrosis, 409 of whom progressed to stage 4 or above. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC (AUC) for M2BPGi predicting liver fibrosis ≥F3 were 0.74 (95% CI [0.65–0.82]), 0.84 (95% CI [0.76–0.89]), and 14.99 (95% CI [9.28–24.21]), respectively. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC for ≥F4 were 0.80 (95% CI [0.70–0.88]), 0.80 (95% CI [0.73–0.86]), and 16.43 (95% CI [0.84–0.90]), respectively. Conclusion Among different sample partitions, M2BPGi has the best diagnostic performance for liver fibrosis stage ≥4. Furthermore, the cutoff of 1–2 is more accurate than that of 0–1 or 2–3 for fibrosis ≥ F3 and ≥ F4. Registration CRD42023483260.
bibliographic citation: Gong et al. (2024) Evaluation of Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) as a diagnostic marker for staging liver fibrosis: a meta-analysis. PeerJ 12:e17611 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17611
date submitted: 2024-01-12
date accepted: 2024-05-31
issued: 2024-06-25
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
author list: Agent
  family name: Gong
  given name: Siyao
author list: Agent
  family name: Yu
  given name: Xin
author list: Agent
  family name: Li
  given name: Qian
author list: Agent
  family name: Chen
  given name: Ming
author list: Agent
  family name: Yu
  given name: Shuguang
author list: Agent
  family name: Yang
  given name: Sha
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17611
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: © 2024 Gong et al.
attribution name: Gong et al.

The effects of exercise on FGF21 in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a key hormone factor that regulates glucose and lipid homeostasis. Exercise may regulate its effects and affect disease states. Therefore, we sought to determine how exercise affects FGF21 concentrations in adults. Methods The review was registered in the International Prospective Systematic Review (PROSPERO, CRD42023471163). The Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched for studies through July 2023. Studies that assessed the effects of exercise training on FGF21 concentration in adults were included. The random effect model, data with standardized mean difference (SMD), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to evaluate the pooled effect size of exercise training on FGF21. The risk of heterogeneity and bias were evaluated. A total of 12 studies involving 401 participants were included. Results The total effect size was 0.3 (95% CI [−0.3–0.89], p = 0.33) when comparing participants who exercised to those who were sedentary. However, subgroup analysis indicated that concurrent exercise and a duration ≥10 weeks significantly decreased FGF21 concentrations with an effect size of −0.38 (95% CI [−0.74–−0.01], p < 0.05) and −0.38 (95% CI [−0.63–−0.13], p < 0.01), respectively. Conclusion Concurrent exercise and longer duration may be more efficient way to decrease FGF21 concentrations in adults with metabolic disorder.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Chuannan Liu
creator: Xujie Yan
creator: Yue Zong
creator: Yanan He
creator: Guan Yang
creator: Yue Xiao
creator: Songtao Wang
subject: Biochemistry
subject: Diabetes and Endocrinology
subject: Obesity
subject: Sports Medicine
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17615
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Liu et al.
abstract: Background Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a key hormone factor that regulates glucose and lipid homeostasis. Exercise may regulate its effects and affect disease states. Therefore, we sought to determine how exercise affects FGF21 concentrations in adults. Methods The review was registered in the International Prospective Systematic Review (PROSPERO, CRD42023471163). The Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched for studies through July 2023. Studies that assessed the effects of exercise training on FGF21 concentration in adults were included. The random effect model, data with standardized mean difference (SMD), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to evaluate the pooled effect size of exercise training on FGF21. The risk of heterogeneity and bias were evaluated. A total of 12 studies involving 401 participants were included. Results The total effect size was 0.3 (95% CI [−0.3–0.89], p = 0.33) when comparing participants who exercised to those who were sedentary. However, subgroup analysis indicated that concurrent exercise and a duration ≥10 weeks significantly decreased FGF21 concentrations with an effect size of −0.38 (95% CI [−0.74–−0.01], p < 0.05) and −0.38 (95% CI [−0.63–−0.13], p < 0.01), respectively. Conclusion Concurrent exercise and longer duration may be more efficient way to decrease FGF21 concentrations in adults with metabolic disorder.
bibliographic citation: Liu et al. (2024) The effects of exercise on FGF21 in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PeerJ 12:e17615 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17615
date submitted: 2023-12-21
date accepted: 2024-05-31
issued: 2024-06-25
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Chuannan
author list: Agent
  family name: Yan
  given name: Xujie
author list: Agent
  family name: Zong
  given name: Yue
author list: Agent
  family name: He
  given name: Yanan
author list: Agent
  family name: Yang
  given name: Guan
author list: Agent
  family name: Xiao
  given name: Yue
author list: Agent
  family name: Wang
  given name: Songtao
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17615
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: ©2024 Liu et al.
attribution name: Liu et al.

Influence of leaf inclination angle and tillering on population transpiration, soil evaporation, and yield in winter wheat near-isogenic lines
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Leaf inclination angle (LIA) and tillering impact the winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) population canopy structure. Understanding their effects on water use (WU) parameters and yield can guide water-saving strategies through population control. In this study, six near-isogenic lines (NILs) and their parents were selected as materials. These special materials were characterized by varying tillering at the current sowing density, a similar genetic background, and, particularly, a gradient in mean flag leaf LIA. The investigation focused on the jointing to early grain-filling stage, the peak water requirement period of wheat crops. Population-scale transpiration (PT) and evaporation from the soil surface (E) were partitioned from total evapotranspiration (ET) by the means of micro-lysimeters. The results showed decreased PT, E, and ET with increased population density (PD) within a narrow density range derived from varying tillering across genotypes. Significant correlations existed between PD and ET, E, and PT, especially in the wettest 2017–2018 growing season. Within such narrow PD range, all the correlations between WU parameters and PD were negative, although some correlations were not statistically significant, thereby suggesting the population structure’s predominant impact. No significant correlation existed between LIA and both ET and PT within the LIA range of 35°–65°. However, significant correlations occurred between LIA and E in two growing seasons. Genotypes with similar LIA but different PD produced varied ET; while with similar PD, the four pairs of genotypes with different LIA each consumed similar ET, thus highlighting PD’s more crucial role in regulating ET. The yield increased with higher LIA, and showed a significant correlation, emphasizing the LIA’s significant effect on yield. However, no correlation was observed with PD, indicating the minor effect of tillering at the current sowing density. Therefore these results might offer valuable insig…
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Guirong Huang
creator: Xinying Zhang
creator: Zhenzhao Wang
creator: Xiaoying Liu
creator: Rui Guo
creator: Fengxue Gu
creator: Enke Liu
creator: Shuying Li
creator: Xiuli Zhong
creator: Qiaozhen Li
creator: Xurong Mei
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Plant Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17618
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Huang et al.
abstract: Leaf inclination angle (LIA) and tillering impact the winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) population canopy structure. Understanding their effects on water use (WU) parameters and yield can guide water-saving strategies through population control. In this study, six near-isogenic lines (NILs) and their parents were selected as materials. These special materials were characterized by varying tillering at the current sowing density, a similar genetic background, and, particularly, a gradient in mean flag leaf LIA. The investigation focused on the jointing to early grain-filling stage, the peak water requirement period of wheat crops. Population-scale transpiration (PT) and evaporation from the soil surface (E) were partitioned from total evapotranspiration (ET) by the means of micro-lysimeters. The results showed decreased PT, E, and ET with increased population density (PD) within a narrow density range derived from varying tillering across genotypes. Significant correlations existed between PD and ET, E, and PT, especially in the wettest 2017–2018 growing season. Within such narrow PD range, all the correlations between WU parameters and PD were negative, although some correlations were not statistically significant, thereby suggesting the population structure’s predominant impact. No significant correlation existed between LIA and both ET and PT within the LIA range of 35°–65°. However, significant correlations occurred between LIA and E in two growing seasons. Genotypes with similar LIA but different PD produced varied ET; while with similar PD, the four pairs of genotypes with different LIA each consumed similar ET, thus highlighting PD’s more crucial role in regulating ET. The yield increased with higher LIA, and showed a significant correlation, emphasizing the LIA’s significant effect on yield. However, no correlation was observed with PD, indicating the minor effect of tillering at the current sowing density. Therefore these results might offer valuable insig…
bibliographic citation: Huang et al. (2024) Influence of leaf inclination angle and tillering on population transpiration, soil evaporation, and yield in winter wheat near-isogenic lines. PeerJ 12:e17618 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17618
date submitted: 2023-05-19
date accepted: 2024-05-31
issued: 2024-06-25
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
author list: Agent
  family name: Huang
  given name: Guirong
author list: Agent
  family name: Zhang
  given name: Xinying
author list: Agent
  family name: Wang
  given name: Zhenzhao
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Xiaoying
author list: Agent
  family name: Guo
  given name: Rui
author list: Agent
  family name: Gu
  given name: Fengxue
author list: Agent
  family name: Liu
  given name: Enke
author list: Agent
  family name: Li
  given name: Shuying
author list: Agent
  family name: Zhong
  given name: Xiuli
author list: Agent
  family name: Li
  given name: Qiaozhen
author list: Agent
  family name: Mei
  given name: Xurong
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17618
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: ©2024 Huang et al.
attribution name: Huang et al.

Shoulder muscle weakness and proprioceptive impairments in type 2 diabetes mellitus: exploring correlations for improved clinical management
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder with systemic implications, potentially affecting musculoskeletal health. This study aimed to assess shoulder muscle strength and joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM, exploring potential correlations and shedding light on the musculoskeletal consequences of the condition. The objectives were two-fold: (1) to assess and compare shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy between individuals with T2DM and asymptomatic counterparts, and (2) to examine the correlation between shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM. Methods A cross-sectional study enrolled 172 participants using the convenience sampling method, including 86 individuals with T2DM and an age-matched asymptomatic group (n = 86). Shoulder strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer, while joint repositioning accuracy was evaluated with an electronic digital inclinometer. Results Individuals with T2DM exhibited reduced shoulder muscle strength compared to asymptomatic individuals (p < 0.001). Additionally, joint repositioning accuracy was significantly lower in the T2DM group (p < 0.001). Negative correlations were observed between shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy in various directions (ranging from −0.29 to −0.46, p < 0.001), indicating that higher muscle strength was associated with improved joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM. Conclusion This study highlights the significant impact of T2DM on shoulder muscle strength and joint repositioning accuracy. Reduced strength and impaired accuracy are evident in individuals with T2DM, emphasizing the importance of addressing musculoskeletal aspects in diabetes management. The negative correlations suggest that enhancing shoulder muscle strength may lead to improved joint repositioning accuracy, potentially contributing to enhanced physical functioning in this population.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Ravi Shankar Reddy
creator: Mastour Saeed Alshahrani
creator: Mohammad A. ALMohiza
creator: Batool Abdulelah Alkhamis
creator: Jaya Shanker Tedla
creator: Venkata Nagaraj Kakaraparthi
creator: Ghada Mohamed Koura
creator: Debjani Mukherjee
creator: Hani Hassan Alnakhli
creator: Hussain Saleh H. Ghulam
creator: Raee S. Alqhtani
subject: Diabetes and Endocrinology
subject: Orthopedics
subject: Public Health
subject: Sports Injury
subject: Rehabilitation
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17630
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Reddy et al.
abstract: Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder with systemic implications, potentially affecting musculoskeletal health. This study aimed to assess shoulder muscle strength and joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM, exploring potential correlations and shedding light on the musculoskeletal consequences of the condition. The objectives were two-fold: (1) to assess and compare shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy between individuals with T2DM and asymptomatic counterparts, and (2) to examine the correlation between shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM. Methods A cross-sectional study enrolled 172 participants using the convenience sampling method, including 86 individuals with T2DM and an age-matched asymptomatic group (n = 86). Shoulder strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer, while joint repositioning accuracy was evaluated with an electronic digital inclinometer. Results Individuals with T2DM exhibited reduced shoulder muscle strength compared to asymptomatic individuals (p < 0.001). Additionally, joint repositioning accuracy was significantly lower in the T2DM group (p < 0.001). Negative correlations were observed between shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy in various directions (ranging from −0.29 to −0.46, p < 0.001), indicating that higher muscle strength was associated with improved joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM. Conclusion This study highlights the significant impact of T2DM on shoulder muscle strength and joint repositioning accuracy. Reduced strength and impaired accuracy are evident in individuals with T2DM, emphasizing the importance of addressing musculoskeletal aspects in diabetes management. The negative correlations suggest that enhancing shoulder muscle strength may lead to improved joint repositioning accuracy, potentially contributing to enhanced physical functioning in this population.
bibliographic citation: Reddy et al. (2024) Shoulder muscle weakness and proprioceptive impairments in type 2 diabetes mellitus: exploring correlations for improved clinical management. PeerJ 12:e17630 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17630
date submitted: 2024-01-31
date accepted: 2024-06-03
issued: 2024-06-25
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: ALMohiza
  given name: Mohammad A.
author list: Agent
  family name: Alkhamis
  given name: Batool Abdulelah
author list: Agent
  family name: Tedla
  given name: Jaya Shanker
author list: Agent
  family name: Kakaraparthi
  given name: Venkata Nagaraj
author list: Agent
  family name: Koura
  given name: Ghada Mohamed
author list: Agent
  family name: Mukherjee
  given name: Debjani
author list: Agent
  family name: Alnakhli
  given name: Hani Hassan
author list: Agent
  family name: Ghulam
  given name: Hussain Saleh H.
author list: Agent
  family name: Alqhtani
  given name: Raee S.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17630
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: ©2024 Reddy et al.
attribution name: Reddy et al.

Identification and serological responses to a novel Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein 1 (PvMSP-1) derived synthetic peptide: a putative biomarker for malaria exposure
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background The integration of diagnostic methods holds promise for advancing the surveillance of malaria transmission in both endemic and non-endemic regions. Serological assays emerge as valuable tools to identify and delimit malaria transmission, serving as a complementary method to rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) and thick smear microscopy. Here, we evaluate the potential of antibodies directed against peptides encompassing the entire amino acid sequence of the PvMSP-1 Sal-I strain as viable serological biomarkers for P. vivax exposure. Methods We screened peptides encompassing the complete amino acid sequence of the Plasmodium vivax Merozoite Surface Protein 1 (PvMSP-1) Sal-I strain as potential biomarkers for P. vivax exposure. Here, immunodominant peptides specifically recognized by antibodies from individuals infected with P. vivax were identified using the SPOT-synthesis technique followed by immunoblotting. Two 15-mer peptides were selected based on their higher and specific reactivity in immunoblotting assays. Subsequently, peptides p70 and p314 were synthesized in soluble form using SPPS (Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis) and tested by ELISA (IgG, and subclasses). Results This study unveils the presence of IgG antibodies against the peptide p314 in most P. vivax-infected individuals from the Brazilian Amazon region. In silico B-cell epitope prediction further supports the utilization of p314 as a potential biomarker for evaluating malaria transmission, strengthened by its amino acid sequence being part of a conserved block of PvMSP-1. Indeed, compared to patients infected with P. falciparum and uninfected individuals never exposed to malaria, P. vivax-infected patients have a notably higher recognition of p314 by IgG1 and IgG3.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Aline Marzano-Miranda
creator: Gustavo Pereira Cardoso-Oliveira
creator: Ingrid Carla de Oliveira
creator: Luiza Carvalho Mourão
creator: Letícia Reis Cussat
creator: Vanessa Gomes Fraga
creator: Carlos Delfin Chávez Olórtegui
creator: Cor Jesus Fernandes Fontes
creator: Daniella Castanheira Bartholomeu
creator: Erika M. Braga
subject: Biotechnology
subject: Parasitology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17632
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Marzano-Miranda et al.
abstract: Background The integration of diagnostic methods holds promise for advancing the surveillance of malaria transmission in both endemic and non-endemic regions. Serological assays emerge as valuable tools to identify and delimit malaria transmission, serving as a complementary method to rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) and thick smear microscopy. Here, we evaluate the potential of antibodies directed against peptides encompassing the entire amino acid sequence of the PvMSP-1 Sal-I strain as viable serological biomarkers for P. vivax exposure. Methods We screened peptides encompassing the complete amino acid sequence of the Plasmodium vivax Merozoite Surface Protein 1 (PvMSP-1) Sal-I strain as potential biomarkers for P. vivax exposure. Here, immunodominant peptides specifically recognized by antibodies from individuals infected with P. vivax were identified using the SPOT-synthesis technique followed by immunoblotting. Two 15-mer peptides were selected based on their higher and specific reactivity in immunoblotting assays. Subsequently, peptides p70 and p314 were synthesized in soluble form using SPPS (Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis) and tested by ELISA (IgG, and subclasses). Results This study unveils the presence of IgG antibodies against the peptide p314 in most P. vivax-infected individuals from the Brazilian Amazon region. In silico B-cell epitope prediction further supports the utilization of p314 as a potential biomarker for evaluating malaria transmission, strengthened by its amino acid sequence being part of a conserved block of PvMSP-1. Indeed, compared to patients infected with P. falciparum and uninfected individuals never exposed to malaria, P. vivax-infected patients have a notably higher recognition of p314 by IgG1 and IgG3.
bibliographic citation: Marzano-Miranda et al. (2024) Identification and serological responses to a novel Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein 1 (PvMSP-1) derived synthetic peptide: a putative biomarker for malaria exposure. PeerJ 12:e17632 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17632
date submitted: 2024-03-07
date accepted: 2024-06-04
issued: 2024-06-25
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Marzano-Miranda
  given name: Aline
author list: Agent
  family name: Pereira Cardoso-Oliveira
  given name: Gustavo
author list: Agent
  family name: Carla de Oliveira
  given name: Ingrid
author list: Agent
  family name: Carvalho Mourão
  given name: Luiza
author list: Agent
  family name: Reis Cussat
  given name: Letícia
author list: Agent
  family name: Gomes Fraga
  given name: Vanessa
author list: Agent
  family name: Delfin Chávez Olórtegui
  given name: Carlos
author list: Agent
  family name: Jesus Fernandes Fontes
  given name: Cor
author list: Agent
  family name: Castanheira Bartholomeu
  given name: Daniella
author list: Agent
  family name: Braga
  given name: Erika M.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17632
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: ©2024 Marzano-Miranda et al.
attribution name: Marzano-Miranda et al.

Evaluation of genetic variation and host resistance to wheat stem rust pathogen (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties grown in Türkiye
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Wheat stem rust, which is caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt), is a highly destructive disease that affects wheat crops on a global scale. In this study, the reactions of 150 bread wheat varieties were evaluated for natural Pgt infection at the adult-plant stage in the 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 growing seasons, and they were analyzed using specific molecular markers to detect stem rust resistance genes (Sr22, Sr24, Sr25, Sr26, Sr31, Sr38, Sr50, and Sr57). Based on phenotypic data, the majority of the varieties (62%) were resistant or moderately resistant to natural Pgt infection. According to molecular results, it was identified that Sr57 was present in 103 varieties, Sr50 in nine varieties, Sr25 in six varieties, and Sr22, Sr31, and Sr38 in one variety each. Additionally, their combinations Sr25 + Sr50, Sr31 + Sr57, Sr38 + Sr50, and Sr38 + Sr57 were detected in these varieties. On the other hand, Sr24 and Sr26 were not identified. In addition, many varieties had low stem rust scores, including a large minority that lacked Sr57. These varieties must have useful resistance to stem rust and could be the basis for selecting greater, possibly durable resistance.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Ahmet Cat
subject: Molecular Biology
subject: Mycology
subject: Plant Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17633
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Cat
abstract: Wheat stem rust, which is caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt), is a highly destructive disease that affects wheat crops on a global scale. In this study, the reactions of 150 bread wheat varieties were evaluated for natural Pgt infection at the adult-plant stage in the 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 growing seasons, and they were analyzed using specific molecular markers to detect stem rust resistance genes (Sr22, Sr24, Sr25, Sr26, Sr31, Sr38, Sr50, and Sr57). Based on phenotypic data, the majority of the varieties (62%) were resistant or moderately resistant to natural Pgt infection. According to molecular results, it was identified that Sr57 was present in 103 varieties, Sr50 in nine varieties, Sr25 in six varieties, and Sr22, Sr31, and Sr38 in one variety each. Additionally, their combinations Sr25 + Sr50, Sr31 + Sr57, Sr38 + Sr50, and Sr38 + Sr57 were detected in these varieties. On the other hand, Sr24 and Sr26 were not identified. In addition, many varieties had low stem rust scores, including a large minority that lacked Sr57. These varieties must have useful resistance to stem rust and could be the basis for selecting greater, possibly durable resistance.
bibliographic citation: Cat (2024) Evaluation of genetic variation and host resistance to wheat stem rust pathogen (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties grown in Türkiye. PeerJ 12:e17633 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17633
date submitted: 2024-01-23
date accepted: 2024-06-04
issued: 2024-06-25
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Cat
  given name: Ahmet
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17633
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-25
copyright: © 2024 Cat
attribution name: Cat

The impact of the military conflict in Sudan on maternal health: a mixed qualitative and quantitative study
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Objectives Ongoing military conflict in Sudan has had significant repercussions on the health and well-being of the population, particularly among women of reproductive age. This study aimed to investigate the impact of conflict on maternal health by employing a mixed qualitative and quantitative research approach. Methods Through in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires (388 women), this study examined the experiences and challenges faced by pregnant women and new mothers and the availability and accessibility of maternal healthcare services in conflict-affected areas. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 35 women who had recently given birth or were pregnant in regions affected by the Khartoum State–Sudan conflict. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data collected from the interviews. Result Most women did not have access to healthcare services (86.6%), and out of the total sample, 93 (24%) experienced adverse outcomes. The factors associated with adverse effects were parity (OR 1.78, CI [1.15–2.75], p-value 0.010), gestational age (OR 2.10, CI [1.36–3.25], p-value 0.002), access to healthcare (OR 2.35, CI [1.48–3.72], p-value 0.001), and delivery mode (OR 1.68, CI [1.05–2.69], p = 0.030). Factors significantly associated with accessibility to maternal healthcare services included age (OR, 1.28; = 0.042) and higher conflict levels (1.52 times higher odds, p = 0.021). The narratives and experiences shared by women exposed the multifaceted ways in which the conflict-affected maternal health outcomes. Conclusion The significance of this study lies in its potential to contribute to the existing literature on maternal health in conflict-affected areas, especially in Sudan, and to help us understand how women can receive maternal health services.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Elhadi Miskeen
subject: Global Health
subject: Gynecology and Obstetrics
subject: Public Health
subject: Women’s Health
subject: Healthcare Services
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17484
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 Miskeen
abstract: Objectives Ongoing military conflict in Sudan has had significant repercussions on the health and well-being of the population, particularly among women of reproductive age. This study aimed to investigate the impact of conflict on maternal health by employing a mixed qualitative and quantitative research approach. Methods Through in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires (388 women), this study examined the experiences and challenges faced by pregnant women and new mothers and the availability and accessibility of maternal healthcare services in conflict-affected areas. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 35 women who had recently given birth or were pregnant in regions affected by the Khartoum State–Sudan conflict. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data collected from the interviews. Result Most women did not have access to healthcare services (86.6%), and out of the total sample, 93 (24%) experienced adverse outcomes. The factors associated with adverse effects were parity (OR 1.78, CI [1.15–2.75], p-value 0.010), gestational age (OR 2.10, CI [1.36–3.25], p-value 0.002), access to healthcare (OR 2.35, CI [1.48–3.72], p-value 0.001), and delivery mode (OR 1.68, CI [1.05–2.69], p = 0.030). Factors significantly associated with accessibility to maternal healthcare services included age (OR, 1.28; = 0.042) and higher conflict levels (1.52 times higher odds, p = 0.021). The narratives and experiences shared by women exposed the multifaceted ways in which the conflict-affected maternal health outcomes. Conclusion The significance of this study lies in its potential to contribute to the existing literature on maternal health in conflict-affected areas, especially in Sudan, and to help us understand how women can receive maternal health services.
bibliographic citation: Miskeen (2024) The impact of the military conflict in Sudan on maternal health: a mixed qualitative and quantitative study. PeerJ 12:e17484 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17484
date submitted: 2023-08-17
date accepted: 2024-05-07
issued: 2024-06-24
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Miskeen
  given name: Elhadi
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17484
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-24
copyright: © 2024 Miskeen
attribution name: Miskeen

The inorganic pyrophosphatases of microorganisms: a structural and functional review
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Pyrophosphatases (PPases) are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of pyrophosphate (PPi), a byproduct of the synthesis and degradation of diverse biomolecules. The accumulation of PPi in the cell can result in cell death. Although the substrate is the same, there are variations in the catalysis and features of these enzymes. Two enzyme forms have been identified in bacteria: cytoplasmic or soluble pyrophosphatases and membrane-bound pyrophosphatases, which play major roles in cell bioenergetics. In eukaryotic cells, cytoplasmic enzymes are the predominant form of PPases (c-PPases), while membrane enzymes (m-PPases) are found only in protists and plants. The study of bacterial cytoplasmic and membrane-bound pyrophosphatases has slowed in recent years. These enzymes are central to cell metabolism and physiology since phospholipid and nucleic acid synthesis release important amounts of PPi that must be removed to allow biosynthesis to continue. In this review, two aims were pursued: first, to provide insight into the structural features of PPases known to date and that are well characterized, and to provide examples of enzymes with novel features. Second, the scientific community should continue studying these enzymes because they have many biotechnological applications. Additionally, in this review, we provide evidence that there are m-PPases present in fungi; to date, no examples have been characterized. Therefore, the diversity of PPase enzymes is still a fruitful field of research. Additionally, we focused on the roles of H+/Na+ pumps and m-PPases in cell bioenergetics. Finally, we provide some examples of the applications of these enzymes in molecular biology and biotechnology, especially in plants. This review is valuable for professionals in the biochemistry field of protein structure–function relationships and experts in other fields, such as chemistry, nanotechnology, and plant sciences.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Rodolfo García-Contreras
creator: Javier de la Mora
creator: Héctor Manuel Mora-Montes
creator: José A. Martínez-Álvarez
creator: Marcos Vicente-Gómez
creator: Felipe Padilla-Vaca
creator: Naurú Idalia Vargas-Maya
creator: Bernardo Franco
subject: Biochemistry
subject: Bioinformatics
subject: Microbiology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.17496
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2024 García-Contreras et al.
abstract: Pyrophosphatases (PPases) are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of pyrophosphate (PPi), a byproduct of the synthesis and degradation of diverse biomolecules. The accumulation of PPi in the cell can result in cell death. Although the substrate is the same, there are variations in the catalysis and features of these enzymes. Two enzyme forms have been identified in bacteria: cytoplasmic or soluble pyrophosphatases and membrane-bound pyrophosphatases, which play major roles in cell bioenergetics. In eukaryotic cells, cytoplasmic enzymes are the predominant form of PPases (c-PPases), while membrane enzymes (m-PPases) are found only in protists and plants. The study of bacterial cytoplasmic and membrane-bound pyrophosphatases has slowed in recent years. These enzymes are central to cell metabolism and physiology since phospholipid and nucleic acid synthesis release important amounts of PPi that must be removed to allow biosynthesis to continue. In this review, two aims were pursued: first, to provide insight into the structural features of PPases known to date and that are well characterized, and to provide examples of enzymes with novel features. Second, the scientific community should continue studying these enzymes because they have many biotechnological applications. Additionally, in this review, we provide evidence that there are m-PPases present in fungi; to date, no examples have been characterized. Therefore, the diversity of PPase enzymes is still a fruitful field of research. Additionally, we focused on the roles of H+/Na+ pumps and m-PPases in cell bioenergetics. Finally, we provide some examples of the applications of these enzymes in molecular biology and biotechnology, especially in plants. This review is valuable for professionals in the biochemistry field of protein structure–function relationships and experts in other fields, such as chemistry, nanotechnology, and plant sciences.
bibliographic citation: García-Contreras et al. (2024) The inorganic pyrophosphatases of microorganisms: a structural and functional review. PeerJ 12:e17496 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17496
date submitted: 2024-01-23
date accepted: 2024-05-09
issued: 2024-06-24
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: García-Contreras
  given name: Rodolfo
author list: Agent
  family name: de la Mora
  given name: Javier
author list: Agent
  family name: Mora-Montes
  given name: Héctor Manuel
author list: Agent
  family name: Martínez-Álvarez
  given name: José A.
author list: Agent
  family name: Vicente-Gómez
  given name: Marcos
author list: Agent
  family name: Padilla-Vaca
  given name: Felipe
author list: Agent
  family name: Vargas-Maya
  given name: Naurú Idalia
author list: Agent
  family name: Franco
  given name: Bernardo
doi: 10.7717/peerj.17496
volume: 12
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2024-06-24
copyright: ©2024 García-Contreras et al.
attribution name: García-Contreras et al.

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