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
AVOKE: an open-source toolbox for audiovisual web experiments in jsPsych
As web-based experiments become increasingly popular, the need for advanced, accessible research methods is greater than ever. Existing solutions for designing and building an experiment are often closed source and proprietary, which limits configurability, affordability, and testability. Moreover, inconsistent terminologies, domain-specific coding and documentation, and practices such as open-washing impair the ease of adoption and effective use of these tools by novice researchers and practitioners. To address these shortcomings, we release AVOKE—a collection of free and open source tools for web-based behavioural experiments. AVOKE extends the functionalities of the widely adopted jsPsych library, matching community standards for code reusability and comprehensive documentation. The current release of AVOKE supports temporally-precise presentation of audiovisual media (including generated animations, preloaded files, and external sources like YouTube), as well as the collection of behavioural responses, like keypresses and video capture (e.g., for recording face videos of participants). This paper elaborates on the functionalities, implementation, and usage of the included plugins and extensions in AVOKE. These extensions and plugins have been validated with simulation testing and utilised in previous and ongoing studies. AVOKE is openly available at https://www.github.com/beatlab-mcmaster/AVOKE and archived on Zenodo. We welcome contributions to AVOKE and discuss potential future additions to ease the development of advanced web-based experiments for all users.
Saxena et al. (2026) AVOKE: an open-source toolbox for audiovisual web experiments in jsPsych. PeerJ 14:e20544 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20544
Zmpste24 deficiency contributes to intervertebral disc degeneration by undermining the stability of the nuclear membrane of nucleus pulposus cells
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is often accompanied by the senescence of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells and narrowed intervertebral disc space. Zinc metalloproteinase STE24 (Zmpste24), a common anti-aging gene, has been studied in several diseases but remains understudied in IVDD. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between IVDD and alterations in Zmpste24 expression. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that reduced Zmpste24 expression in patients with IVDD. In vitro experiments using rat NP cells revealed that Zmpste24 inhibition induced nuclear instability and cellular senescence. In addition, the phenotype and immunohistochemical staining of Zmpste24 knockout (KO) mice confirmed that Zmpste24 plays a protective role against IVDD. Collectively, these findings suggest that reduced Zmpste24 expression in NP cells may contribute to IVDD pathogenesis.
Han et al. (2026) Zmpste24 deficiency contributes to intervertebral disc degeneration by undermining the stability of the nuclear membrane of nucleus pulposus cells. PeerJ 14:e20534 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20534
Comparative genomics and phylogenetic analysis of seven Ficus species based on chloroplast genomes
Background The genus Ficus (Moraceae) is a large and ecologically important group, known for its intricate fig-wasp pollination mutualism and role as a keystone resource in tropical ecosystems. Despite its significance, the phylogenetic relationships within Ficus remain partially unresolved, necessitating more comprehensive genomic data. Chloroplast (cp) genomes are valuable resources for plant phylogenetic and comparative genomic studies. Here, we sequenced, assembled, and comparatively analyzed the complete chloroplast genomes of seven Ficus species, including Ficus esquiroliana, Ficus pandurata, Ficus formosana, Ficus erecta, Ficus carica, Ficus hirta, and Ficus stenophylla. Results The complete cp genomes were successfully assembled, ranging in size from 160,340 bp to 160,669 bp, and exhibited a typical quadripartite structure with highly conserved gene content and arrangement. Critically, while some of these species have previously published plastomes, our assemblies consistently encoded 130 genes, contrasting with reported gene counts (e.g., 129 for F. formosana (NC_059898), 119 for F. carica (KY635880), 131 for F. erecta (MT093220)) in earlier studies. Numerous repeat sequences and simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were identified, predominantly in non-coding regions, which serve as valuable resources for developing novel genetic markers. Analysis of codon usage revealed a strong bias towards A/T endings, a common feature in plant cp genomes. While inverted repeat (IR) boundary regions were largely conserved, minor variations, including partial gene duplications (rps19, rpl2), were observed. Comparative genome alignment and nucleotide diversity analysis showed high sequence conservation, with most variations concentrated in single-copy and non-coding regions. We identified three hypervariable regions (ccsA, ccsA - ndhD, and rpoB - trnC-GCA) with elevated nucleotide diversity (Pi > 0.012, ccsA up to 0.0141), suggesting their utility as candidate DNA barcodes for Ficus. Phylogenetic analysis using 79 protein-coding genes from 26 species robustly supported the monophyly of Ficus and resolved the seven newly sequenced species into two well-supported clades, consistent with previous classifications. Conclusions Our study provides new, consistently assembled and rigorously annotated chloroplast genome data for Ficus, including clarified data for previously studied species with notable gene content discrepancies. These data identify candidate molecular markers with potential applications for systematics and population genetics, and offer robust insights into relationships among sampled taxa. These data will facilitate future studies of Ficus evolution and conservation when complemented by broader taxon sampling and nuclear/mitochondrial data.
Bao et al. (2026) Comparative genomics and phylogenetic analysis of seven Ficus species based on chloroplast genomes. PeerJ 14:e20531 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20531
Research progress on exercise fatigue from the perspective of fatigue biomarkers
Exercise-induced fatigue refers to the physiological processes of body functions that cannot be sustained at a specific level during exercise or the inability of the organs to maintain a predetermined level of intensity. Exercise-induced fatigue is a comprehensive physiological process, which is mainly reflected in the body’s neuromuscular system and cardiovascular system. The study of fatigue-related physiological responses related to exercise-induced fatigue provides crucial insights into the underlying mechanisms, enables the assessment of fatigue levels, and aids in the formulation of effective recovery strategies. This review summarized the latest advancements in the research of biomarkers associated with exercise-induced fatigue, exploring the mechanisms of various biomarkers, detection methods, and their applications in sports medicine. Studies have shown that energy substances, metabolites, blood bioindicators, central neurotransmitters, free radicals, urine, saliva, etc., are related to exercise-induced fatigue-related biomarkers in human body. Among them, energy-related substances were the first fatigue markers studied, and metabolites in blood or urine were gradually used as biomarkers as research was deepened and testing methods were refined. The presence of central neurotransmitters gradually increased, and researchers gradually emphasized the important role of neurotransmitters in exercise-induced fatigue. Through a comprehensive analysis of relevant literature, this paper aimed to offer guidance for future research directions and promote a more scientific approach to managing exercise-induced fatigue.
Liu et al. (2026) Research progress on exercise fatigue from the perspective of fatigue biomarkers. PeerJ 14:e20424 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20424
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of mind-body exercise on depressed and anxious individuals
Background This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of mind-body exercise in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. It further compares the effects of different types of mind-body exercise and examines whether intervention cycle, session length, or frequency exhibit dose-response relationships. Methods This study adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and systematically searched seven prominent databases—Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, WANFANG DATA, and the VIP database—from their inception through July 6, 2024. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the impact of mind-body exercise interventions on depression and anxiety were included in the analysis. All experimental groups engaged only in mind-body exercise, and control groups received no intervention. Meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and assessment of publication bias were performed using Stata 17.0 software. Evidence quality was assessed using the GRADE tool. Results A total of 15 studies that encompassed 1,351 participants were included in this review. The meta-analysis demonstrated that mind-body exercise significantly alleviated symptoms of depression (Hedges’ g = −0.86, 95% CI [−1.24 to −0.48], P < 0.001) and anxiety (Hedges’ g = −0.38, 95% CI [−0.53 to −0.23], P < 0.001). Five subgroup variables were examined in this study: exercise type, session duration (minutes), intervention period (weeks), frequency (sessions per week), and baseline depression severity. In the analysis of depression outcomes, exercise type, session duration, frequency, and baseline depression severity were identified as significant moderators. The most effective intervention characteristics for reducing depressive symptoms were: Qigong as the exercise type, sessions lasting 31–60 min, a frequency of three sessions per week, an intervention period of 9–12 weeks, and high baseline levels of depression. In contrast, none of these variables were found to be significant moderators in the analysis of anxiety outcomes. However, the most effective intervention characteristics for alleviating anxiety symptoms were tai chi as the exercise type, sessions lasting 31–60 min, a frequency of four or more sessions per week, an intervention period of 8 weeks or less, and normal baseline anxiety levels. Discussion There was robust evidence that mind-body exercise significantly reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. Other This study adhered to PRISMA guidelines to ensure rigorous transparency and methodological accuracy. Furthermore, it was formally registered on the PROSPERO international systematic review platform (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/) under registration number CRD42024613769.
Ye et al. (2026) A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of mind-body exercise on depressed and anxious individuals. PeerJ 14:e20570 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20570