Intraoperative hypotension and postoperative pneumonia in patients after selective intracranial tumor resection: a retrospective cohort study
Background Postoperative pneumonia is common and associated with increased postoperative mortality. Intraoperative hypotension is suggested to be associated with an increased risk of postoperative surgical infection. We aim to explore whether intraoperative hypotension could increase the risk of postoperative pneumonia in adult patients undergoing intracranial tumor resection. Methods A total of 341 patients who received selective intracranial tumor resection under general anesthesia between January 2018, and December 2022 in a single university hospital were reviewed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. The outcomes included the incidence of postoperative pneumonia and the association between intraoperative hypotension and postoperative pneumonia. Results The incidence of postoperative pneumonia during hospitalization after intracranial tumor resection was 16.8%. Univariate analysis revealed a history of preoperative smoking, intraoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP) < 55 mmHg, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification (ASA) > 2, the duration of surgery > 4 hours, and the duration of controlled ventilation > 4 hours were identified as possible risk factors (P < 0.1). Multivariate analysis revealed a history of preoperative smoking (adjusted odds ratio: 5.205, 95% confidence interval [1.826–14.836], P = 0.003) and intraoperative MAP < 55 mmHg (adjusted odds ratio: 3.082, 95% confidence interval [1.447–6.432], P = 0.003) were independently associated with postoperative pneumonia. Conclusions Intraoperative hypotension may be associated with postoperative pneumonia in patients who received selective intracranial tumor resection under general anesthesia.
Chang et al. (2025) Intraoperative hypotension and postoperative pneumonia in patients after selective intracranial tumor resection: a retrospective cohort study. PeerJ 13:e19514 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19514
Diversity, antibacterial and antioxidant activities of fungi associated with Apis cerana
Insect-associated fungi are a treasure trove of natural active compounds. Nevertheless, the diversity and biological activities of fungi associated with Apis cerana have not been studied in depth. Here, we investigated fungal diversity in the A. cerana gut and honeycomb using a combination of culture-dependent and -independent methods. A total of 652 fungal operational taxonomic units belonging to five phyla and 334 genera were detected in the samples. Significant differences were found in the fungal communities of the honeybee gut and honeycomb—the genera Fusarium, Stenocarpella, and Botrytis were dominant in the gut, whereas Botrytis, Periconia, and Aspergillus were dominant in honeycomb. A total of 28 fungal strains were isolated from honeybee gut, head, and honeycomb, belonging to two phyla, four classes, and 10 genera. Most of these isolates were identified as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium spp. The antibacterial and antioxidant activities of crude extracts of their fermentation broths were investigated. Extract from A. subramanianii ZFCZ33 exhibited the best antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and P. syringae pv. Actinidiae with the disc diameter of inhibition zone diameter (IZD) of 24.33, 15.33, 17.00, and 25.33 mm, respectively. Extract from P. adametzioides ZFCZ03 had a free radical scavenging rate of 89.71% in assay with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, and that from strain ZFT07 had a free radical scavenging rate of 97.13% in assay with 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid). Our results preliminarily elucidate the fungal diversity of A. cerana gut and honeycomb and indicate that honeybee-associated fungi have antibacterial and antioxidant activities. This study provides a basis for further development and use of honeybee-associated fungi.
Cui et al. (2025) Diversity, antibacterial and antioxidant activities of fungi associated with Apis cerana. PeerJ 13:e19762 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19762
Assessing an acoustic bioindicator of leisure boating disturbance on bottlenose dolphins
Growing concerns about the impact of leisure boating on marine ecosystems are particularly relevant for marine mammal species, given their dependence on sound and significant spatial overlap with human activities. Monitoring the effects of leisure boating disturbances on marine ecosystems presents considerable challenges, as it is resource-intensive and may require many years of data collection. However, since species can alter their behavior and daily routines in response to human disturbances, behaviors essential for individual fitness, reproduction, and parental care success—such as acoustic behavior—could serve as bioindicators for assessing the impact of leisure boating. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) emit acoustic signals, known as signature whistles (SWs), for individual identification, communication, and social bonding. This study aimed to examine how leisure boating influences SW characteristics (e.g., fundamental frequencies, frequency modulation, and duration) and whether these effects remain consistent across different social contexts (e.g., presence of calves), environmental conditions (e.g., seabed habitat type), and behavioral states in a population of bottlenose dolphins inhabiting the northwestern coast of Sardinia (Mediterranean Sea, Italy). The results demonstrate that certain SW characteristics were consistently affected by the presence of boats, regardless of ecological, behavioral, and social differences. These findings suggest that SWs have the potential to serve as reliable bioindicators for boating disturbances. Further research in diverse marine environments and with other dolphin populations is needed to validate and expand upon these findings.
La Manna et al. (2025) Assessing an acoustic bioindicator of leisure boating disturbance on bottlenose dolphins. PeerJ 13:e19726 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19726
Optimizing carbon nanoparticle staining for sentinel lymph nodes in rabbit lower limb models: concentration and time dependence
Background and Objectives Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) have been used as a lymphatic imaging agent that can selectively enter lymphatic vessels. This experiment used CNPs for lower limb lymph node staining in rabbits, aiming to explore the suitable concentration and time of CNPs for sentinel lymph node (SLN) sufficient staining, and the biosafety of CNPs retention was preliminarily explored. Methods Staining effect of SLN using different concentrations of CNP injection on the rabbit lower limb lymphatic model. To explore the temporal correlation of CNPs staining. We investigated the effects of long-term retention of CNPs in lymph nodes on lymph node tissue structure and mRNA expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6/TNF-α), apoptosis factors (Bcl-2/Bax), and fibrosis factors (Collagen-I/α-SMA). Results The lowest concentration to achieve adequate lymph node staining is 0.0781 mg/0.8 mL, while the best staining results were observed at least 12 hours post-injection. Long-term CNPs retention has no significant negative impact on the structure and function of lymph nodes. Conclusions CNPs are an effective and safe lymphatic tracer. It is a concentration-dependent and time-dependent lymphatic staining agent. 0.0781 mg/0.8 mL and 12 hours are suitable for the rabbit lower limb lymphatic staining model, which provides valuable data for further research on the application of CNPs in rabbit animal models. In addition, the results provide evidence for future clinical development of concentration and time standards for CNPs’ use.
Kylyshbek et al. (2025) Optimizing carbon nanoparticle staining for sentinel lymph nodes in rabbit lower limb models: concentration and time dependence. PeerJ 13:e19799 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19799
Relationships between different components of intolerance of uncertainty and symptoms of obsessive–compulsive disorder: a network analysis
Background Previous studies have shown that intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) are closely interrelated. This reliance on scale totals to measure symptom severity obscures the distinctions and connections between different symptoms. In the present study, we explored the relationships between different components of IU and symptoms of OCD. Methods We recruited 1,616 participants and retained 1,529 pieces of valid data. Components of IU were measured by the Chinese version of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale-Short Form, and symptoms of OCD were measured by the Chinese version of the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised. The present study employs network analysis to examine both core and bridging symptoms within the context of the IU and OCD networks. Results In the overall network, the nodes with the highest expected influence (EI) were OCD3 (“I get upset if things don’t work out”), IU6 (“I can’t stand being taken by surprise”), and OCD6 (“It’s hard for me to control my thoughts”). The nodes with the highest bridge expected influence (BEI) were OCD3 (“I get upset if things don’t work out”), OCD9 (“I get upset when people change my plans”), and IU12 (“I must get away from all uncertain situations”). Within the IU community, the strongest edge was between IU1 (“Unforeseen events upset me greatly”) and IU2 (“It frustrates me not having all the information I need”). Within the OCD community, the strongest edge was between OCD10 (“I force myself to repeat certain numbers”) and OCD11 (“Sometimes, I force myself to bathe or wash myself because I feel dirty”). The strongest edge connecting the IU and OCD communities was between IU10 (“When I am uncertain I can’t function very well”) and OCD6 (“It’s hard for me to control my thoughts”). No significant gender differences were found in the network structure. Conclusions This study revealed specific component–symptom patterns between different facets of intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and various obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Understanding how distinct components of IU—an assumed risk factor—relate to specific OCD symptoms may inform targeted prevention and intervention strategies. For example, interventions aimed at OCD3, IU6, OCD9, and IU12 may effectively reduce the severity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms among Chinese university students, enhance their ability to cope with uncertainty, and help disrupt the reciprocal influence between IU components and OCD symptoms.
Ding et al. (2025) Relationships between different components of intolerance of uncertainty and symptoms of obsessive–compulsive disorder: a network analysis. PeerJ 13:e19791 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19791
Influence of 4-week lower extremity high-intensity interval training on energy metabolism and maximal oxygen uptake of elite swimmers
Objectives This study examines the effects of a 4-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program on energy metabolism and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in elite swimmers, aiming to provide empirical evidence for optimizing competitive swimming training. Methods Twenty-four competitive swimmers were randomly assigned to either an HIIT experimental group or a control group. The experimental group underwent a structured 4-week lower-limb HIIT program, while the control group continued their regular training regimen. Energy metabolism parameters and VO2max were assessed using a Lode lower-limb power cycle and a gas metabolism analyzer. Repeated measures analysis was used to examine interaction effects, with data analysis conducted at a significance level of P < 0.05. Results The HIIT group exhibited significant improvements in all energy metabolism parameters and VO2max. Phosphagen energy supply increased from 40.39 ± 9.46 kJ to 58.27 ± 9.12 kJ (P < 0.001), glycolytic energy supply increased from 41.81 ± 9.81 kJ to 59.06 ± 10.86 kJ (P < 0.001), and aerobic energy supply increased from 132.29 ± 25.12 kJ to 173.32 ± 29.50 kJ (P < 0.001). Consequently, total energy supply rose from 214.48 ± 38.58 kJ to 290.65 ± 42.01 kJ (P < 0.001). Additionally, VO2max significantly improved from 51.48 ± 3.85 ml/min/kg to 55.03 ± 4.90 ml/min/kg (P = 0.041), whereas no significant changes were observed in the control group. Conclusion The findings confirm that a 4-week lower-limb HIIT program significantly enhances energy metabolism and VO2max in elite swimmers. These results underscore the efficacy of HIIT in improving metabolic adaptability, thereby supporting its application as a key training strategy for optimizing competitive swimming performance.
Jin et al. (2025) Influence of 4-week lower extremity high-intensity interval training on energy metabolism and maximal oxygen uptake of elite swimmers. PeerJ 13:e19788 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19788
The association between the extracellular water-to-total body water ratio and albuminuria in Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Background Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common complication in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and early screening and diagnosis are crucial for preventing end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The extracellular water/total body water (ECW/TBW), as measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), may be closely associated with the development of DKD. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between ECW/TBW and albuminuria in T2DM patients and to explore its potential as an early diagnostic tool. Materials and methods This study included 1,034 T2DM patients. Demographic information, medical history, medication use, and laboratory test results were collected, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), creatinine, lipid profile, and the urine albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR). BIA was used to measure parameters such as ECW/TBW. Multivariate logistic regression analysis explored the correlation between ECW/TBW and UACR. Ultimately, two simple nomograms were established to predict macroalbuminuria from patients with normoalbuminuria and microalbuminuria, respectively. Results The ECW/TBW increased significantly with rising UACR levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that ECW/TBW was significantly associated with macroalbuminuria compared to both normo-albuminuria and microalbuminuria (OR = 2.082, 95% CI [1.476–2.937], P < 0.001; and OR = 1.642, 95% CI [1.129–2.386], P = 0.009, respectively). In the analysis stratified by renal function, a similar relationship was found only in patients with eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR = 2.108, 95% CI [1.479–3.004], P < 0.001) but not in patients with eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Finally, two nomograms for predicting macroalbuminuria were established. The C-index of the nomogram model for predicting the macroalbuminuria in patients with normoalbuminuria was 0.795 (95% CI [0.752–0.838]), and the C-index of the nomogram model for predicting the macroalbuminuria in patients with microalbuminuria was 0.761 (95% CI [0.711–0.812]). Conclusions This study demonstrated a significant correlation between the ECW/TBW and UACR levels in Chinese T2DM patients. In patients with normal or mildly impaired renal function (eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2), ECW/TBW was significantly associated with macroalbuminuria, potentially serving as a diagnostic marker for macroalbuminuria.
Yang et al. (2025) The association between the extracellular water-to-total body water ratio and albuminuria in Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. PeerJ 13:e19780 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19780
Habitat composition near linear landscape structures across Poland: perspectives on pollinator conservation
Landscape management intensification is a major driver of global decline in insect pollinators and the ecosystem services they provide. Part of the proposed solution is to take advantage of the potential benefits of existing human-made habitats such as linear landscape structures (LLSs) associated with highways verges, railway embankments, or levees. We explored the surrounding landscape composition of different LLSs across Poland using geographic information system (GIS) methodology, examining spatial scales reflecting typical foraging distances of key pollinator groups (bees, butterflies, flies). We found that land cover composition around LLSs closely mirrored the overall national land cover distribution in Poland with right-skewed distributions of tree, grass, crop, and built cover across all LLS types. Highway verges exhibited the highest landscape diversity, while railways and levees showed more similar patterns to each other. Our study revelated that land cover changes occur unidirectionally at the studied scales, suggesting consistent habitat transitions around these linear features. Based on these findings, we propose prioritising two approaches for pollinator conservation in Poland: (1) using levee verges as supplementary habitat in wetland areas due to their lowest traffic level and reduced cost; (2) developing highway verges as a supplementary habitat to support pollinator ecosystem services in farmland and urban landscapes. Since LLSs are managed by relatively few stakeholders, primarily public bodies and government agencies, which provides an opportunity to implement management plans supporting biodiversity and ecosystem services at the national and regional scale.
Marjańska et al. (2025) Habitat composition near linear landscape structures across Poland: perspectives on pollinator conservation. PeerJ 13:e19765 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19765
ASB3 ablation has no detectable effects on spermatogenesis and fertility in male mice
Background As a member of the Ankyrin repeat and SOCS box (Asb) family, the Asb3 is enriched in the testes and highly conserved in multiple species. The knockout of the Asb12 gene not significantly affect spermatogenesis, but led to a compensatory increase in the mRNA expression level of the Asb3. Although it has been reported that the Asb12 is not required for spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice, the functional role of Asb3 remains not to be clearly elucidated. Methods and results Asb3 was predominantly expressed in mouse testis and primarily localized to the elongated spermatids, as determined by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization. The Asb3-KO mice were successfully generated using CRISPR Cas9 technology. Sperm quantity and motility from the cauda epididymidis were assessed via the hemocytometer. Histological analysis and immunostaining confirmed that normal fertility, normal spermatozoa and normal spermatogenesis in Asb3-KO mice. Additionally, no significant differences were observed between Asb3-KO mice and heterozygous mice regarding seminiferous tubule apoptosis via the TUNEL analysis. Conclusions There is no significant difference in fertility between Asb3-KO mice and heterozygous mice. Despite a significant increase in the relative mRNA expression level of the Asb3 gene due to the absence of the Asb12, the deficiency of ASB3 did not adversely affect fertility or spermatogenesis in males. Hence, we demonstrated that ASB3 ablation has no detectable effects on spermatogenesis and fertility in male mice.
Xu et al. (2025) ASB3 ablation has no detectable effects on spermatogenesis and fertility in male mice. PeerJ 13:e19738 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19738
Evaluating the antibacterial properties of deep-sea sponges Dactylospongia elegants, Stelletta fibrosa, and Haliclona manglaris from the Jordanian Gulf of Aqaba
Marine sponges are known for their rich variety of secondary metabolites, many of which show potential for pharmaceutical applications. In this study, three deep-sea sponge species—Stelletta fibrosa, Dactylospongia elegans, and Haliclona manglaris—were identified using DNA barcoding, and their ethanolic extracts were tested for antibacterial activity. The extracts were evaluated against Gram-positive (e.g., Bacillus pumilus, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA) and Gram-negative bacteria (e.g., Escherichia coli and Klebsiella aerogenes) using the agar well diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were also determined. Among the extracts, D. elegans exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones ranging from six to 21 mm against gram-positive bacteria and low MIC/MBC values from 0.25 to three mg/ml. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis of D. elegans revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as gallic acid, caffeic acid, bolinaquinone, dactyloquinone, and others, which are known for their antimicrobial properties. These findings suggest that D. elegans has promising antibacterial properties that could be valuable in combating antimicrobial resistance.
Abuassaf et al. (2025) Evaluating the antibacterial properties of deep-sea sponges Dactylospongia elegants, Stelletta fibrosa, and Haliclona manglaris from the Jordanian Gulf of Aqaba. PeerJ 13:e19735 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19735