Spatial and temporal patterns of vegetation carbon sources/sinks and driving factors in southeastern Xizang from 2000 to 2020
Net ecosystem productivity (NEP) is a crucial measurement for understanding ecosystem function and carbon cycling. On the basis of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data, meteorological data, and topographic data, combined with the enhanced Carnegie Ames Stanford Approach (CASA) model, we analyzed the spatiotemporal trends and changes in the vegetation NEP in southeastern Xizang from 2000 to 2020. Additionally, we employed the GeoDetector model to identify the driving factors influencing the vegetation NEP. The results indicated that: (1) from 2000 to 2020, the annual vegetation NEP in southeastern Xizang exhibited a fluctuating increasing trend. The multiyear average vegetation NEP was 519.06 gC m−2 a−1, ranging from 11.23 to 1,333.40 gC m−2 a−1. The minimum and maximum values occurred in 2010 and 2015, respectively. (2) The spatial distribution pattern of the vegetation NEP revealed an overall trend of higher values in southern areas and lower values in northern areas, with higher values in eastern areas compared to western areas. The average area of the carbon source regions (NEP < 0) was approximately 70,119 km2, whereas the average area of the carbon sink regions (NEP > 0) was approximately 82,017 km2. Overall, the region exhibited a carbon sink characteristic. (3) Altitude, precipitation, and temperature were the primary drivers influencing the vegetation NEP. In regions at lower elevations and in the southern and eastern parts of the study area—where thermal and moisture conditions are relatively favorable—NEP values were generally higher. In contrast, NEP was markedly lower in the northern and high-elevation areas characterized by low temperatures and limited water availability. The interactions between any two of these factors had a greater impact on the vegetation NEP than the independent effect of any single factor did, highlighting a synergistic dual-factor enhancement effect.
Han et al. (2026) Spatial and temporal patterns of vegetation carbon sources/sinks and driving factors in southeastern Xizang from 2000 to 2020. PeerJ 14:e20572 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20572
Identification and analysis of exosome-associated signatures in pediatric sepsis by integrated bioinformatics analysis and machine learning
Background Pediatric sepsis (PS) is a critical condition characterized by life-threatening organ dysfunction and immune dysregulation, including exosome-mediated immune modulation, often linked to infections. Investigating the role of exosome-related genes (ERGs) in the pathogenesis of PS is essential for identifying significant diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Methods Four datasets, namely GSE66099 (training set) and GSE13904, GSE26378, and GSE26440 (validation sets), were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The differential expression of 56 ERGs was analyzed, followed by consensus clustering to identify distinct exosome-related patterns in PS. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to identify PS-related genes (SRGs). Additionally, the immune microenvironment was assessed, and diagnostic models were developed employing specific machine learning algorithms. Results The differential expression analysis identified 21 ERGs that exhibited significant alterations in PS. Consensus clustering revealed two distinct subtypes of PS based on the expression pattern of ERGs. WGCNA identified several hub genes involved in exosome function and PS, with immune-related pathways, including phagocytosis and NF-κB signaling, showing significant enrichment. These genes were leveraged to construct machine learning models, which demonstrated a high diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve (AUC) > 0.995. The analysis identified CD177, GYG1, IRAK3, MCEMP1, and TLR5 as key biomarkers. Furthermore, external validation confirmed the superior performance of the constructed model. Conclusion This study elucidated the role of ERGs in PS, and highlights the significance of immune dysregulation in the pathogenesis of the disease. The developed diagnostic models represent promising tools for the early detection and prognosis prognostic of PS.
Huang et al. (2026) Identification and analysis of exosome-associated signatures in pediatric sepsis by integrated bioinformatics analysis and machine learning. PeerJ 14:e20555 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20555
The effects of biological sex on fatigue during and recovery from resistance exercise
Background Guidelines for resistance training prescription do not often consider sex as it relates to exercise prescription, despite its potential influence on responses to and adaptations following resistance training. If there are sex differences in the rate at which males and females fatigue during a resistance training session, or the rate at which they recover from resistance training between sessions, optimal resistance training volume may differ between the sexes. The purpose of this study was to investigate sex differences in fatigability and recovery from dynamic resistance exercise. Methods Male and female subjects with at least one year of bench press experience (N = 21 males and 21 females) performed a fatigue protocol consisting of barbell bench press with 75% 1RM loads for sets of five repetitions, with 90 seconds between sets, until the point of concentric failure. Recovery was monitored for the subsequent 72 hours using subjective ratings of soreness for the pectoral muscles, triceps, and anterior deltoids, and estimated 1RM strength derived from load-velocity profiles. Results The female subjects completed more reps during the fatigue protocol (females: 58.3 ± 27.3; males: 29.6 ± 10.6; p = 0.0001), but post-training soreness and recovery of estimated 1RM strength did not significantly differ between sexes (p > 0.05). Conclusion Our results suggest that females fatigue slower than males during multiple sets of bench press yet appear to recover from training at the same rate in spite of completing a higher relative workload. Furthermore, the difference in performance during the fatigue protocol appears to be attributable to the female subjects recovering more quickly during the rest intervals, rather than fatiguing more slowly while performing each set.
Nuckols et al. (2026) The effects of biological sex on fatigue during and recovery from resistance exercise. PeerJ 14:e20542 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20542
Searching for the neural correlates of emotional intelligence: a systematic review
The concept of emotional intelligence (EI) has gained significant interest in the scientific community in recent years. Despite its demonstrated impact on social and personal functioning, the neural bases underlying EI remain poorly understood. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive systematic review of the existing literature on the neural correlates of EI. The search was conducted in Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, and PubMed databases. A total of 849 studies were initially identified (after duplicates were removed), of which 34 met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the final synthesis. These studies employed various brain mapping techniques, including lesion studies, grey and white matter structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), resting-state fMRI, and electroencephalogram (EEG). The findings of this review suggest that EI is supported by a complex and widespread brain network primarily implicated in the integration of cognitive and emotional processes, with significant involvement of structures commonly linked to social cognition. The literature mainly emphasized the role of the insula, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, cingulate cortex, and amygdala in conjunction with brain networks comprising these areas, such as the somatic marker circuitry and the social cognition network. Other brain regions, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, cuneus, precuneus, fusiform gyrus, superior temporal gyrus, cerebellum, parahippocampal gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus, frontopolar gyrus, superior parietal lobule, and superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) were also frequently mentioned. However, further research is needed to clarify the roles of some of these regions in EI. Limitations and future lines of research are discussed.
Martín-Aguiar et al. (2026) Searching for the neural correlates of emotional intelligence: a systematic review. PeerJ 14:e20539 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20539
Impact of osteosarcopenia in older people on prognosis following major surgery: a scoping review
Purpose This review aims to map the existing literature on the prevalence, diagnostic criteria, and impact of osteosarcopenia on postoperative clinical outcomes in older adults. Methods The search for this scoping review followed the PRISMA extension guidelines across five databases (Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, and PEDro) from their inception until August 2025. Eligible studies included older adults with osteosarcopenia who underwent major surgeries and reported clinical outcomes. Additionally, data extraction covered three themes: study and population characteristics; prevalence and impact of osteosarcopenia on post-major surgery clinical outcomes; and diagnostic criteria for osteosarcopenia. Results A total of 164 studies were identified, of which 18 met the inclusion criteria, involving 3,235 participants aged between 60.7 and 83 years. The impact of osteosarcopenia varies depending on the type of procedure: (1) in oncological surgeries, the prevalence ranged from 12% to 44%, with reported complications including prolonged surgical time and reduced survival; (2) in orthopedic surgeries, prevalence ranged from 28% to 100%, with issues such as delayed recovery and increased mortality; and (3) in cardiovascular and gastrointestinal surgeries, the prevalence of osteosarcopenia ranged from 6.5% to 38.5%, associated with delayed wound healing and higher infection rates. Diagnostic approaches to osteosarcopenia showed substantial heterogeneity, most frequently relying on skeletal muscle mass index and bone mineral density, but applying different cutoff values. Conclusions The prevalence of osteosarcopenia differs across populations and surgical contexts. This syndrome represents an important risk factor for adverse postoperative outcomes in older adults undergoing major surgery. Furthermore, considerable variability persists in the diagnostic criteria employed, underscoring the need for standardized definitions to improve clinical applicability and comparability across studies.
Silva-Diaz et al. (2026) Impact of osteosarcopenia in older people on prognosis following major surgery: a scoping review. PeerJ 14:e20527 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20527
Comparative analysis of length-weight relationships and condition factors of two congeneric rockcod species from the shores of King George Island, Antarctica
Length-weight relationships (LWR) and Fulton’s condition factors (K) of two notothenioid species, Notothenia rossii and Notothenia coriiceps, were assessed using 295 and 148 specimens, respectively. Fish samples were collected from two different locations: the wharf of the King Sejong Station and Chotdaebawi in Maxwell Bay, King George Island, from January to February 2023. The coefficient of determination (R2) of linear regressions on LWR ranged from 0.935 to 0.970, and the b values ranged from 3.05 to 3.27. Only N. coriiceps caught in the wharf exhibited positive allometric growth, while N. coriiceps from Chotdaebawi and N. rossii from both locations demonstrated isometric growth. The estimated condition factors (K) indicated that all groups of N. rossii and N. coriiceps exhibited favorable growth conditions in their respective biotopes. These findings enhance our understanding of the similarities and differences in fundamental biological characteristics, ecological aspects, and growth conditions of two important congeneric Antarctic fish species.
Lee et al. (2026) Comparative analysis of length-weight relationships and condition factors of two congeneric rockcod species from the shores of King George Island, Antarctica. PeerJ 14:e20513 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20513
Biodegradation of plastic waste by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae)
Background Plastics are very widely used worldwide, and most of these are not degradable, resulting in global environmental concerns. Plastic usage is growing faster than it did in the past, especially during the COVID-19 outbreak. Global plastic waste associated solely with this pandemic was estimated to be 8.4 ± 1.4 million tons in 2021, exacerbating the existing global burden of plastic, estimated at 9 billion tons produced up to 2017. Some insects can break down plastic polymers, and their intestinal microorganisms play an important role in the process. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biodegradation of several types of plastics by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae) and identify the intestinal bacteria engaged in the process. Methods In this study, a total of 140 g of mealworms (±1,050 individuals) were divided into seven groups consisting of approximately 150 larvae, and assigned to different plastic feeding conditions, i.e. polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for 30 days. The consumption rate of plastic, mealworm total live biomass retention, and the life cycle of mealworms were observed. The gut microorganisms of mealworms with the highest rate of plastic consumption were isolated and identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Their potential for plastic degradation was assessed by testing their capability to grow in a minimal medium with PVC film serving as the sole carbon source. Results After a month, PVC was consumed by mealworms more than other plastic sources, as evidenced by their regular life cycle and total live biomass retention (94.8702 ± 2.4278%). A bacterial strain (MG06) with potential PVC-degrading capability was isolated from the guts of the mealworms and was identified as Enterobacter xiangfangensis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The strain demonstrated PVC-dependent growth and survival, indicating its potential to utilize PVC as a carbon source. To the best of our knowledge, no information regarding E. xiangfangensis concerning plastic degradation has been disclosed. This work reports the first evidence suggesting that this bacterium species may contribute to the biodegradation of PVC.
Environmental Contamination and Remediation
Srisakvarangkool et al. (2026) Biodegradation of plastic waste by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae). PeerJ 14:e20429 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20429
Effects of unilateral neck muscle vibration on tilt direction and variability of subjective postural vertical in the frontal plane during seated posture in healthy adults
Background Unilateral neck muscle vibration (NMV) activates the primary endings of muscle spindles and modulates both subjective visual vertical and subjective straight-ahead perception. However, its effects on subjective postural vertical (SPV), crucial for postural balance, remain poorly understood. We aimed to investigate the effects of unilateral NMV-induced proprioceptive stimulation on SPV tilt direction and intraindividual variability in the frontal plane in healthy participants. Methods We included 48 healthy adults (29 males, 19 females; age 22.5 ± 1.1 years; height 167.7 ± 7.4 cm; weight 58.7 ± 8.4 kg), randomly divided into four groups: vibrations to the left (L-Vib) and right sides (R-Vib), as well as sham stimulations to the left (L-Sham) and right (R-Sham). Vibration was applied for 10 min at 80 Hz with an amplitude of 0.8 mm. SPV was measured using a motorized vertical-tilting chair equipped with a backrest and lateral supports. Participants were seated without ground contact, with their trunk fixed and arms crossed; the ir head and legs re mained unrestrained. The experimenter tilted the chair from an initial position of 15° or 20° in the frontal plane toward the vertical at a speed of 1.5°/s. A digital inclinometer recorded the tilt angle when participants reported their body felt upright. Each session comprised eight trials with pseudorandom starting directions and angles. The mean tilt direction and standard deviation across trials were calculated. SPV was assessed before, during, and after stimulation. A two-way analysis of variance was conducted to analyze the effect s of unilateral NMV on SPV outcomes. Results There were no significant demographic differences across groups. For SPV tilt direction, there was no statistically significant interaction between group and time. However, for SPV variability, significant effects were observed for time (F1,44 = 9.591, p = 0.003, partial η2 = 0.179) and the interaction between group and time (F6,44 = 2.325, p = 0.039, partial η2 = 0.137). Participants in the L-Vib group exhibited significantly reduced variability both during and after stimulation compared with those in the L-Sham (p = 0.004) and R-Sham (p < 0.001) groups. Similarly, participants in the R-Vib group showed significantly lower variability than those in the R-Sham group (p = 0.02). Discussion These findings highlight the role of sensorimotor integration in body orientation and suggest that unilateral NMV may enhance the precision of verticality estimation. Based on this preliminary study, NMV could be a promising intervention for individuals with SPV abnormalities.
Fujino et al. (2026) Effects of unilateral neck muscle vibration on tilt direction and variability of subjective postural vertical in the frontal plane during seated posture in healthy adults. PeerJ 14:e20579 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20579
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding sun exposure and sun protection among female students living in high-altitude areas, Abha, Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Background Ultraviolet (UV) rays are more intense at high-altitude regions. Exposure to intense UV rays is a major risk factor for skin damage and skin cancer. The university students (young adults) have limited awareness of sun protection measures, leading to persistent gaps in their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). This study evaluates the KAP of sun exposure and protection measures among female students at King Khalid University in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Objectives To assess students’ understanding of sun exposure risks and protective measures, to identify students’ attitudes toward sun safety, and to determine students’ sun exposure and protection practices. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 328 female students from various academic programs using a stratified random sampling method. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire assessing sociodemographic details, knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward sun exposure and sun protective measures at high altitudes. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS V.27, with descriptive statistics determining frequency and percentages, and inferential statistics assessing relationships between KAP variables. Results The majority of participants (77.1%) were aware of the stronger sun rays at high altitudes, and 72.9% recognized high UV intensity. However, misconceptions persisted, with 55.2% believing sunscreen use before age 30 causes skin darkening. While 66.5% reported using sun protection, inconsistencies in sunscreen use and other protective behaviors were observed. Statistically significant relationships were found between academic year and sun-related knowledge (p < 0.001), as well as between knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Conclusion Despite good awareness and positive attitudes toward sun protection, practical application remains inconsistent. Targeted educational campaigns and culturally appropriate interventions are essential to bridging the gap between knowledge and practice. Future studies should focus on evaluating intervention effectiveness and long-term behavioral changes.
Ali et al. (2026) Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding sun exposure and sun protection among female students living in high-altitude areas, Abha, Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study. PeerJ 14:e20576 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20576
The effects of the heavy metals cadmium and lead on six metabolic and immune-related enzymes in the loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus)
Background Cadmium (Cd2+) and lead (Pb2+) are two common heavy metal pollutants in rivers and lakes that have multiple toxic effects on organisms. However, their toxic mechanisms are not fully understood. The loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus), belonging to the genus Misgurnus (Cypriniformes, Cobitidae), is an important benthic fish species whose physiological activities are highly susceptible to heavy metal pollutants. Such exposure can adversely affect its growth, development, and reproduction, leading to disease occurrence and significant economic losses in the M. anguillicaudatus farming industry. Methods After M. anguillicaudatus was exposed to Cd2+ (3.625 mg L−1, 7.25 mg L−1, and 14.5 mg L−1) and Pb2+ (47.5 mg L−1, 95 mg L−1, and 190 mg L−1) for 96 h, frozen sections of their visceral organs (heart, hepatopancreas, gills, kidneys, stomach, and intestine) were prepared. The activities of six metabolic and immune-related enzymes in these organs were assessed using enzyme histochemical staining and optical density quantitative analysis technology. Results The distribution of the six metabolic and immune-related enzymes exhibited significant tissue specificity. Acid phosphatase (ACP) was mainly distributed in the stomach, intestine, and gills; alkaline phosphatase (ALP) exhibited high activity in the stomach and intestine; and adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) displayed greater activity in the heart, hepatopancreas, and stomach. In addition, non-specific esterase (NSE) was abundant in the hepatopancreas, stomach, gills, and kidney; peroxidase (POX) activity was prominent in the kidney, gills, and heart; and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity was enriched in the heart and hepatopancreas. Exposure to Cd2 + markedly inhibited ACP activity in all six organs, significantly inhibiting ALP activity in the hepatopancreas, gills, and stomach, ATPase activity in all six organs, NSE activity in the hepatopancreas and stomach, POX activity in the heart, gills, and kidney, and SDH activity in the heart, hepatopancreas, and stomach. Similarly, Pb2 + exposure significantly inhibited ACP and ATPase activities in all organs except the kidney and stomach, the ALP and NSE activities of the hepatopancreas, gills, and stomach, the POX activities of the heart, gills, and kidney, and the SDH activities of the heart, hepatopancreas, and stomach. Conclusions Compared with Pb2+, Cd2+ exerted a broader toxic effect across the six organs. Both heavy metal ions disrupted the blood circulation of M. anguillicaudatus by inhibiting enzymatic activity, impairing detoxification and respiration, and reducing the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Wang et al. (2026) The effects of the heavy metals cadmium and lead on six metabolic and immune-related enzymes in the loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus). PeerJ 14:e20547 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20547