title: PeerJ description: Articles published in PeerJ link: https://peerj.com/articles/index.rss3?journal=peerj&month=2025-06 creator: info@peerj.com PeerJ errorsTo: info@peerj.com PeerJ language: en title: Update of machine learning for ultrasound diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a bright future for deep learning link: https://peerj.com/articles/19645 last-modified: 2025-06-30 description: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common liver disease and the burden is increasing around the world. Ultrasound diagnosis of MASLD is the preferred method due to its convenience, absence of radiation, and high accuracy. The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in MASLD diagnosis has been explored across electronic medical records, laboratory tests, ultrasound and radiographic imaging, and liver histopathological data. Notably, AI’s application in ultrasound diagnosis has garnered significant attention. Deep learning (DL), known for its exceptional image recognition and classification capabilities, has become a focal point in ultrasound research. This paper reviews and analyzes the application of various machine learning (ML) algorithms in the ultrasound diagnosis of MASLD, highlighting the advantages and potential of AI in this field. It is intended for clinicians, AI researchers, and healthcare innovators, aiming to enhance diagnostic accuracy, expand MASLD screening in primary care, and support early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. creator: Jiawen Li creator: Jianhui Chen creator: Xiaohong Zeng creator: Guorong Lyu creator: Shu Lin creator: Shaozheng He uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19645 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Li et al. title: Protein composition analysis of human plasma-derived and recombinant human serum albumin preparations based on 4D label-free proteomics link: https://peerj.com/articles/19624 last-modified: 2025-06-30 description: BackgroundClinical therapeutic human serum albumin (HSA) preparations are typically derived from human plasma and contain various accompanying proteins (APs). Previous studies have documented extensively the disparities in post-translation modifications, redox states and antioxidant capacities among HSA preparations from different manufacturers. Most of these studies have focused primarily on albumin, and analyzing APs in HSA preparations and recombinant HSA (rHSA) was often neglected.MethodsIn this study, the APs in human plasma-derived HSA (pHSA) from six Chinese manufacturers and recombinant HSA (rHSA) from yeast and rice were identified and analyzed using a four-dimensional (4D) label-free quantitative proteomic technology.ResultsA total of 456 different APs from the six pHSA preparations were identified, with 96 APs consistently detected in all pHSA samples. 52 APs from yeast-produced rHSA were identified, whereas 152 APs were detected in rice-expressed rHSA. Among the detected APs, haptoglobin, hemopexin and transthyretin were among the top eight APs with the highest relative abundance consistently observed in all pHSA preparations. Moreover, the results revealed that the identified APs in pHSA are primarily involved in endopeptidase inhibitor activity, complement and coagulation cascades, biosynthesis of amino acids and cholesterol metabolism by Gene Ontology (GO), Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG)/euKaryotic Orthologous Groups (KOG), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and protein–protein interactions (PPI) annotation. The ELISA validation results confirmed the presence of haptoglobin, hemopexin, transthyretin and serotransferrin in pHSA but not in rHSA, aligning with the findings from the 4D label-free quantitative proteomic analysis. creator: Li Ma creator: Peng Jiang creator: Zongkui Wang creator: Qing Liu creator: Jun Xu creator: Lu Cheng creator: Pan Sun creator: Xi Du creator: Changqing Li uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19624 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Ma et al. title: Effects of high-impact jumping versus resistance exercise on bone mineral content in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19616 last-modified: 2025-06-30 description: BackgroundThe childhood and adolescent period represent a critical window for bone development. Mechanical loading through physical exercise effectively stimulates osteogenic responses, promoting peak bone mass accumulation—a key factor in osteoporosis prevention.ObjectiveTo compare the effects of high-impact jumping versus resistance exercise on bone mineral content (BMC) in children and adolescents, thereby identifying the most osteogenic exercise modality.MethodsWe systematically searched PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase from inception to April 4, 2025 for randomized and non-randomized controlled trials investigating high-impact or resistance exercise effects on pediatric BMC. Study quality was assessed using Cochrane’s risk-of-bias tool. Meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 17. To assess robustness, we performed sex-stratified subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses. Meta-regression with robust variance estimation (RVE) was conducted using the robumeta package.ResultsA total of twelve studies involving 940 participants were included. The meta-analysis indicated that high-impact jumping significantly improved BMC in children and adolescents at the lumbar spine (MD = 0.86, 95% CI [0.27–1.45], p = 0.004) and femoral neck (MD = 0.11, 95% CI [0.04–0.18], p = 0.001). Subgroup analyses by sex demonstrated particularly pronounced improvements in girls, with significant increases in BMC at both the lumbar spine (MD = 1.40, 95% CI [0.16–2.63], p = 0.03) and femoral neck (MD = 0.11, 95% CI [0.00–0.21], p = 0.04).ConclusionThis study demonstrates that high-impact jumping significantly improves lumbar spine and femoral neck BMC in children and adolescents, with particularly pronounced effects observed in girls. In contrast, resistance exercise did not yield statistically significant improvements in BMC, possibly due to the limited number of studies and methodological limitations. Future research should focus on high-quality randomized controlled trials to inform and optimize bone health interventions for children and adolescents. creator: Tingting Miao creator: Xun Li creator: Wenhua Zhang creator: Fengying Yang creator: Xiaoqiang Wang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19616 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Miao et al. title: Comparative gene expression analysis of Beauveria bassiana against Spodoptera frugiperda link: https://peerj.com/articles/19591 last-modified: 2025-06-30 description: BackgroundThis study investigates the gene expression dynamics and biocontrol effectiveness of Beauveria bassiana against Spodoptera frugiperda, the fall armyworm, a notable agricultural pest. Our objectives were to analyze the B. bassiana gene expression variation during insect infection compared to grow on artificial media and to evaluate the effects of different spore concentrations on larval mortality, development, and reproduction.MethodsA combination of bioassays and transcriptome analysis was employed. S. frugiperda larvae were exposed to different spore concentrations, and mortality rates were recorded at various developmental stages. RNA sequencing was performed on fungal samples from infected larvae and those grown on 1/4-strength Sabouraud Dextrose Agar with Yeast Extract (SDAY) media. Differential gene expression libraries were constructed at 48, 96, and 144 hours’ post-infection. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were used to identification of biological processes and pathways that differentiate infection from growth on artificial media.ResultsThe highest spore concentration (1 × 107 spores/mL) significantly increased larval mortality, prolonged developmental stages, and reduced reproductive success, particularly in pupation, adult emergence, and female fecundity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed substantial differences in gene expression between B. bassiana grown on artificial media and during host infection at three-time points. At 48 hours’ post-infection, genes involved in adhesion and cuticle penetration, such as serine/threonine-protein kinases (STPKs) and lipases, were upregulated, indicating adaptation to host invasion. GO analysis revealed enrichment in cellular and catalytic activities, while KEGG pathways highlighted early-stage metabolic adaptations related to nutrient acquisition and energy metabolism. In contrast, fungal growth on artificial media showed minimal expression of infection-related genes. At 96 hours, genes associated with ABC transporters and detoxification were significantly upregulated, supporting fungal survival and immune evasion. GO terms were enriched in membrane components, and KEGG pathways focused on energy metabolism and stress responses. At 144 hours, genes related to secondary metabolism were upregulated, indicating the production of compounds vital for continued invasion and immune suppression. The activation of these pathways were minimal or absent during growth on artificial media.ConclusionsThis study provides new insights into the molecular adaptations of B. bassiana during host infection, revealing key virulence factors and infection dynamics. The identified gene expression signatures enhance our understanding of fungal infection mechanisms and could inform more effective biocontrol strategies for managing agricultural pests. creator: Hamdy H. Aly creator: Yun Meng creator: Dun Wang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19591 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Aly et al. title: Interactive effects between soil properties and bacterial communities in tomato rhizosphere under the application of microbial agents link: https://peerj.com/articles/19564 last-modified: 2025-06-30 description: BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to determine the impact of microbial agents on physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and bacterial communities in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) rhizosphere soil in order to provide a theoretical foundation for the stability of tomato rhizosphere soil microecology and the ecological preservation of farmland soil.MethodsTomato rhizosphere soils treated with various microbial agents, as well as an untreated control (FQ_CK), were analyzed. The effects of different microbial agents on the physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and bacterial community structure of tomato rhizosphere soil after 2 years of continuous cropping were analyzed using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technique.ResultsWith the application of microbial agents, microbial agent treatment (Bacillus subtilis (FQ_T1), Trichoderma harzianum (FQ_T2), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (FQ_T3), Verticillium thuringiensis (FQ_T4), and Verticillium purpureum (FQ_T5)) was beneficial for improving the physicochemical properties and enzyme activity of tomato rhizosphere soil after 2 years of continuous cropping. Compared with the control FQ_CK, bacterial treatment increased the richness of bacterial communities, total number of species, and overall relative abundance of beneficial bacterial phylum and genus, to a certain extent. It had a positive impact on microbial structure and function, improved the interaction and stability of species ecological networks, and was conducive to the stability and sustainability of tomato rhizosphere soil microbial ecosystem functions. creator: Longxue Wei creator: Dongbo Zhao creator: Lianghai Guo creator: Jianjun Guo creator: Jinying Zhu creator: Yanting Pei creator: Peiyan Guan creator: Zhihui Guo creator: Huini Cui creator: Jiansheng Gao creator: Yongjun Li creator: Liang Zhang creator: Fuyan Wang creator: Peng Liu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19564 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Wei et al. title: Eukaryotic gut community of the bat Myotis arescens in anthropized landscapes in Chile link: https://peerj.com/articles/19563 last-modified: 2025-06-30 description: BackgroundHuman-driven environmental changes can disrupt wildlife habitats, forcing animals to adapt to fragmented or degraded ecosystems. In some cases, this leads to increased proximity between wildlife and human populations, heightening the risk of pathogen spillover. Bats, as key ecological players, are particularly sensitive to such disturbances. While some species decline in heavily altered environments, others adapt and thrive near human settlements, increasing the likelihood of encounters. Given that bats can host a wide range of zoonotic pathogens, this adaptive behavior raises important public health concerns. Despite their ecological significance and their role in zoonotic disease dynamics, the gut eukaryotes communities associated with bats remain less studied.MethodsThis study focused on the Valparaíso Myotis (Myotis arescens), an insectivorous bat species endemic to central Chile that is significantly impacted by anthropogenic deforestation and habitat fragmentation. We characterized the gut eukaryotic communities of M. arescens through fecal sample analysis. Targeted microbial groups included fungi, metazoan parasites, and protists. High-throughput sequencing was employed to assess gut eukaryotes diversity, and beta diversity analysis was conducted to explore clustering patterns in relation to environmental variables, such as vegetation cover and land use types.ResultsOur analyses revealed that the gut eukaryotic community of M. arescens consistently included taxa from the Apicomplexa, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota phyla, with Apicomplexa being the most abundant. Beta diversity analysis showed distinct clustering by sampling location, with the percentage of native vegetation identified as the primary factor shaping gut eukaryotic community structure. Other influential variables included the presence of annual crops, orchards, water bodies, and urban areas. Notably, a high abundance of Apicomplexa—particularly amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) related to the genus Eimeria—was detected in bat feces across sites with varying degrees of anthropogenic disturbance.ConclusionsThis study highlights the significant role of native vegetation in shaping the eukaryotic gut community of M. arescens, suggesting that gut eukaryotic composition can serve as a bioindicator of bat health and habitat quality. Among the dominant taxa, members of the genus Eimeria were frequently detected across sites with varying degrees of anthropogenic disturbance. Although Eimeria is generally considered host-specific and not zoonotic, its high prevalence in bat gut communities points to the need for further research into its ecological role and potential implications for wildlife health. Overall, these findings underscore the importance of conserving native habitats to maintain ecosystem integrity and support healthy bat populations. creator: Lia Ramírez-Fernández creator: Mónica Saldarriaga-Córdoba creator: Andrea X. Silva creator: Constanza Napolitano creator: Annia Rodríguez-San Pedro uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19563 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Ramírez-Fernández et al. title: High matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression predicts poor prognosis of colon adenocarcinoma and is associated with PD-L1 expression and lymphocyte infiltration link: https://peerj.com/articles/19550 last-modified: 2025-06-30 description: BackgroundColon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is a prevalent and aggressive malignancy with limited treatment options, particularly for advanced stages. While programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibition, has emerged as an appealing therapeutic approach for COAD, its effectiveness as a monotherapy is hindered by high tumor heterogeneity. Identifying novel therapeutic targets to boost the efficacy of PD-L1-based immunotherapy in COAD is crucial to improving clinical outcomes. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), traditionally known for its role in tumor invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis, has not been thoroughly investigated in the relationship to immunotherapy for COAD. This work aims to investigate the potential involvement of MMP-2 in the immune microenvironment of COAD and explore its possible role as a target to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of anti-PD-L1-based immunotherapy.MethodsThis study employed a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of publicly available datasets to investigate the correlation between MMP-2 expression and PD-L1 levels in COAD. Additionally, we evaluated the impact of MMP-2 expression on patient survival and prognosis. To validate these findings, in vitro experiments were conducted to assess the effect of MMP-2 inhibition on PD-L1 expression in colon cancer cell lines. We also analyzed the association between MMP-2 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) to elucidate the immunological landscape of COAD.ResultsOur bioinformatic analysis revealed a novel positive correlation between MMP-2 expression and PD-L1 level in COAD, indicating that higher MMP-2 level is associated with increased PD-L1 expression. Furthermore, in COAD patients, elevated MMP-2 expression was linked to poor overall survival and prognosis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that inhibiting MMP-2 significantly reduced PD-L1 expression in SW480 cells, suggesting that MMP-2 plays a regulatory function in immune evasion. In addition, a novel negative relationship between MMP-2 expression and the presence of TILs was identified, underscoring MMP-2’s potential role in modifying the COAD immunological landscape.ConclusionThis work shows for the first time that MMP-2 not only contributes to tumor progression but also plays a critical role in the immunosuppressive microenvironment of COAD. The demonstrated association between MMP-2 and PD-L1 expression, along with its effect on TILs, indicates that MMP-2 is a promising alternative target for improving the efficacy of anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy. Targeting MMP-2 may offer a novel avenue for overcoming resistance to conventional immunotherapies, potentially improving treatment outcomes in COAD patients. creator: Yiyi Xiao creator: Guangming Li creator: Yongjie Xie creator: Bo Shao creator: Jingpeng Hao creator: Yanglin Zhu creator: Dejun Kong creator: Yafei Qin creator: Hong Qin creator: Shaohua Ren creator: Hongda Wang creator: Chenglu Sun creator: Hao Wang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19550 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Xiao et al. title: Associations between meteorological factors and pregnancy complications during different pregnancy trimesters: a multicenter retrospective study in eastern China link: https://peerj.com/articles/19621 last-modified: 2025-06-27 description: BackgroundPrevious studies have demonstrated the effects of ambient temperature on the risk of pregnancy complications. However, the associations between multiple meteorological factors and pregnancy complications have rarely been studied.MethodsWe carried out a retrospective study on the impacts of meteorological factors on pregnancy complications in different trimesters in Ningbo, China, from 2013–2023. Daily meteorological factors data were obtained from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Moreover, a meteorological factor score (MFS) was calculated. Logistic regression models were applied to assess the effects of individual meteorological factors and MFS on pregnancy complications during different trimesters. Distributed lag nonlinear models were used to explore the sensitive time windows of extreme meteorological factors in different weeks of gestation. The interaction effects of extreme meteorological factors were assessed.ResultsA total of 92,332 participants were included in the study, with diagnoses as follows: gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in 17,814 participants (19.29%), gestational hypertension (GH) in 3,860 participants (4.18%), preeclampsia (PE) in 3,101 participants (3.36%), and hypothyroidism in 17,418 participants (18.86%). Participants in the highest MFS quintile during the first trimester had greater risks of GDM (aOR = 1.186, 95% CI [1.079–1.304]), GH (aOR = 1.596, 95% CI [1.323–1.925]), PE (aOR = 1.347, 95% CI [1.094–1.658]) and hypothyroidism (aOR = 1.257, 95% CI [1.141–1.385]) compared to the lowest quintile. Extreme meteorological exposures influenced complications within distinct windows: risks of GDM, GH, and PE concentrated in mid-pregnancy (3rd–5th months), while hypothyroidism showed first-trimester vulnerability. Interactions between meteorological factors collectively influenced the risk of hypothyroidism.ConclusionsOur findings demonstrated that elevated temperature, increased precipitation, prolonged sunshine duration, and reduced surface pressure were critical risk factors for pregnancy complications. Targeted protective measures should be taken to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications. creator: Tao Chen creator: Jie Cai creator: Da He creator: Hui Zhu creator: Xiang Chen creator: Yuqiong Li creator: Wen Ye creator: Bingqi Li creator: Qinyan Xu creator: Lindan Ji creator: Jin Xu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19621 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Chen et al. title: Insights into the metagenomic and metabolomic compositions of the bacterial communities in Thai traditional fermented foods as well as the relationships between food nutrition and food microbiomes link: https://peerj.com/articles/19606 last-modified: 2025-06-27 description: Five Thai traditional fermented foods, including khao-mak (sweet fermented sticky rice), pak-kard-dong (sour salt-fermented mustard greens), nor-mai-dong (sour salt-fermented bamboo sprouts), moo-som (sour salt-fermented pork), and pla-som (sour salt-fermented fish), were analyzed for their food nutrition and bacterial community structures. Sour salt-fermented bamboo sprouts possessed the highest unique amplicon sequence variables (ASVs), which were 3,476, as well as the highest bacterial diversity and richness, while in contrast, sweet fermented sticky rice possessed the lowest such indices. The phylum Firmicutes accounted for the largest proportions in both sour salt-fermented meats and sweet fermented sticky rice whereas the Proteobacteria occupied the largest proportions in both sour salt-fermented vegetables. The bacterial community structures of both sour salt-fermented meats were similar in terms of composition at class level, while the dominant genera compositions were totally different among all foods. Gene functions, enzymes, and metabolic pathways annotated from the bacterial communities in all foods were those involved in growth metabolisms, genetic information processing, environmental information processing, and cellular signaling. Sour salt-fermented bamboo sprouts had the highest numbers of unique annotated genes, enzymes, and metabolic pathways. creator: Pongrawee Nimnoi creator: Neelawan Pongsilp uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19606 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Nimnoi and Pongsilp title: Unravelling agronomic performance and genetic diversity of newly developed maize inbred lines for arid conditions link: https://peerj.com/articles/19598 last-modified: 2025-06-27 description: Investigating genetic diversity of maize inbred lines is crucial for enhancing breeding for higher yields, resilience, and ensuring sustainable maize production amidst climate change and the rapidly growing global population. This study aimed to evaluate the phenological attributes, plant stature, ear characteristics, and grain yield of 14 newly developed Egyptian maize inbred lines across three growing seasons under arid conditions in Egypt. Furthermore, the assessment of the genetic diversity among these lines using three molecular marker techniques: start codon targeted (SCoT), conserved DNA-derived polymorphism (CDDP), sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP). Field evaluation revealed considerable variations in phenological characters including days to tasseling and silking. The earliest maturing lines such as IKA22 demonstrate potential suitability for short growing seasons. Plant and ear heights varied considerably. Taller lines (such as LCM54 and RA28C) potentially offered greater photosynthetic capacity, while shorter lines (such as IKA22, B17AB, and SSK36) may have exhibited improved lodging resistance, especially under adverse weather conditions. Ear diameter and length fluctuated across seasons, with ZBM40A, RA28C, DKCA2, and LZAM7B exhibiting favorable ear length and diameter. The number of rows per ear and kernels per row varied across seasons, with LZAM7B, RA28C and ZBM40A demonstrating the best performance. Grain yield per plant also revealed seasonal variation, with RA28C, ZBM40A, DKCA2, and LZAM7B showing higher yields. The assessed lines were grouped into six categories based on yield-related traits with RA28C demonstrating the best overall performance, followed by ZBM40A, DKCA2, and LZAM7B. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified associations between these lines and yield-related traits, emphasizing their potential as the most promising candidates for improving maize yield. Moreover, heatmap clustering confirmed the genetic potential and divergence of these lines. PCA demonstrated robust associations between grain yield and critical traits such as rows per ear, ear diameter, and kernels per row, emphasizing their importance for indirect selection. Molecular analysis amplified a total of 95 loci, of which 74 were polymorphic, reflecting substantial genetic variability. The percentage of polymorphism ranged from 0% to 100%, averaging 72.46%. Genetic distance analysis revealed a range of similarities and dissimilarities among these lines. The closest genetic similarity was observed between LZAM7B and ZBM40A, while the greatest divergence was found between LZAM7B and DKCA2. These findings offer valuable insights into the genetic potential of the studied inbred lines, laying a strong foundation for developing resilient, high-yielding maize hybrids for arid and semi-arid environments. Integrating phenotypic and molecular data provides valuable insights for selecting suitable inbred lines in hybrid maize breeding. creator: Abdallah A. Hassanin creator: Areej S. Jalal creator: Ehab M. Mahdy creator: Hend Mandour creator: Elsayed Mansour creator: Mohamed M. Kamara creator: Mohammed O. Alshaharni creator: Eman Fayad creator: Mohammed Alqurashi creator: Maha Aljabri creator: Thorya Abdulrahman Fallatah creator: Diaa Abd El-Moneim creator: Ahmed S. Eldomiaty uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19598 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Hassanin et al. title: Structural and functional neuroimaging of hippocampus to study adult neurogenesis in long COVID-19 patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms: a scoping review link: https://peerj.com/articles/19575 last-modified: 2025-06-27 description: BackgroundWorsening of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders occurs in COVID-19. Impaired adult neurogenesis is linked to most of the neuropsychiatric symptoms and disorders.AimThe current scoping review identified and mapped the available evidence on adult neurogenesis in long COVID-19, at a global level following the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and followed the framework by Arksey and O’Malley.MethodOriginal studies focusing on structural and functional neuroimaging of the hippocampus to study adult neurogenesis in long COVID-19 were included in the review. Studies published in English language with no restriction on the time of publication were searched using the specified search strategy in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and SCOPUS. Articles obtained from the database search were collated and uploaded into the Nested Knowledge AutoLit semi-automated systematic review platform for data extraction.ResultsThe current review provides evidence of the potential alterations in adult neurogenesis in long COVID-19 and its potential link to neuropsychiatric sequelae of long COVID-19, with further research required to validate this assertion.ConclusionThis review proposes conceptual and methodological approaches for future investigations to address existing limitations and elucidate the precise role of adult neurogenesis in the pathophysiology and treatment of long COVID-19. creator: Jayakumar Saikarthik creator: Ilango Saraswathi creator: Bijaya Kumar Padhi creator: Muhammad Aaqib Shamim creator: Nasser Alzerwi creator: Abdulaziz Alarifi creator: Aravind P. Gandhi uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19575 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Saikarthik et al. title: Self-reported voice problems in call center employees during the COVID-19 pandemic: prevalence, risk factors, and occupational conditions link: https://peerj.com/articles/19595 last-modified: 2025-06-26 description: BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered work environments, especially for call center employees (CCEs), who face increased vocal strain due to prolonged speech, stressful conditions, and changes in work dynamics. This study aims to assess the prevalence of self-reported voice problems among CCEs during the pandemic, focusing on the influence of occupational factors, psychosocial stress, and demographic variables on vocal health.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted with 264 CCEs in Turkey between September 2021 and October 2021 during the pandemic. Participants were individuals who had worked in a call center for at least 6 months, were 18 years or older, had no psychiatric diagnoses, and voluntarily consented to participate; those with a history of voice disorders or vocal cord surgery were excluded. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire and the Voice Handicap Index–Short Form (VHI-SF), a validated tool for measuring the impact of voice disorders on quality of life. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were applied to examine the relationships between workers’ characteristics, work conditions, and voice disorder scores.ResultsThe study sample was comprised of 72% women, with a median age of 25 years (IQR: 22–28). The prevalence of voice disorders was found to be 57.6%. Key risk factors for elevated VHI-SF scores included working more than 8 h daily, having over 5 years of experience, experiencing high stress, and exhibiting poor posture. Workers with inadequate knowledge of proper voice usage or those reporting throat irritation had significantly higher VHI-SF scores. Additionally, those who used their voices for more than 5 h per day, had respiratory allergies, or reported poor vocal health, also exhibited higher VHI-SF scores. No significant correlation was observed between VHI-SF scores and gender, education level, smoking habits or hydration.ConclusionThe study highlights the high prevalence of self-reported voice problems among CCEs during the pandemic and identifies several key occupational and psychosocial risk factors. Interventions targeting voice care education, stress management, and ergonomic work conditions may be beneficial in reducing the incidence and severity of voice disorders in this population. creator: Songul Demir creator: Bilal Sizer creator: Sehmus Yildiz uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19595 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Demir et al. title: The impact of multidomain interventions on cognitive and physical function in older adults with subjective cognitive decline: a meta‑analysis and systematic review link: https://peerj.com/articles/19588 last-modified: 2025-06-26 description: BackgroundThis study aimed to examine the efficacy of multidomain interventions compared to control and nutritional interventions in older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). Four databases were searched for relevant literature.MethodologyPubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant studies. Randomized controlled trials that examined the effects of multidomain interventions on cognitive and physical function in older adults with SCD were included.ResultsThis study included six eligible studies with 1,767 participants. The results indicated that multidomain interventions significantly improved executive function and memory but did not significantly impact global cognition and physical performance compared to the control group. In addition, significant enhancements were observed in executive function and memory when compared to single nutritional interventions.ConclusionsThe findings revealed that multidomain interventions could effectively improve executive function and memory in older adults with SCD. Further studies with robust designs, particularly those comparing single-domain interventions, are needed to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms. creator: Qing Yi creator: Wei Wang creator: Yufei Qi creator: Chengwei Yang creator: Mengyun Sui creator: Kun Meng creator: Shanguang Zhao uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19588 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Yi et al. title: CircVAMP3 promotes acute lung injury progression by regulating the miR-580-3p/STING/IFN-β axis in macrophages link: https://peerj.com/articles/19573 last-modified: 2025-06-26 description: Circular RNA (circRNA) is a prominent group of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) that regulates gene expression at the post-transcriptional level in various diseases including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In our study, circVAMP3 was a novel circRNA significantly increased in macrophages in an acute lung injury (ALI) model. Through knockdown and overexpression of circVAMP3, we found circVAMP3 promoted the expression of IFN-β in macrophages, which was vital in the pathophysiological process of ARDS. Moreover, we showed that circVAMP3 targeted Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) through miR-580-3p by bioinformatics analysis and intervene of miR-580-3p. CircVAMP3 acts as a pro-inflammation ncRNA by regulating the miR-580-3p/STING/IFN-β axis and could be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for ARDS. creator: Zheng Zhou creator: Shuyang Chen creator: Yajun Wang creator: Shujing Chen creator: Jinjun Jiang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19573 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zhou et al. title: The potential mechanism of Huangqin for treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation link: https://peerj.com/articles/19536 last-modified: 2025-06-26 description: BackgroundSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that cannot be cured at present. The primary treatment strategies for SLE include glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, antimalarial drugs, and biologics. There is an urgent need for milder and more effective treatment methods. This study aims to explore the effective ingredients and targets of traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria baicalensis (Huangqin) in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus based on network pharmacology, and further analyze the potential mechanisms of action.MethodEmploying the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) database to identify the active chemical components of Huangqin, searching for target genes related to SLE through GeneCards and the KEGG database, extracting the SLE expression gene profile from the GEO database to identify SLE-related targets, and identifying Huangqin-SLE interaction targets using Venny diagrams; Constructing protein interaction networks using the STRING database, identifying core targets with Cytoscape software, and conducting protein clustering analysis; Importing the common targets into the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) for Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Molecular docking was carried out by AutoDockTools, AutoDock Vina, and Discovery Studio software to verify the correlation between the main components of Huangqin and the core targets. Molecular dynamics simulations further confirmed the stability of the binding between components and the targets.ResultsNetwork pharmacology identified 36 active components and 512 drug targets in Huangqin, resulting in the identification of 1,439 SLE targets and 28 common targets. The primary active components are baicalin, acacetin, oroxylin a, neobaicalin, and stigmasterol. Key genes were IL6, CASP3, BCL2, ESR1, and FOS; GO enrichment analysis yielded 77 significant results, while KEGG enrichment analysis produced 64 significant results. The primary signaling pathways targeted by Huangqin in SLE include the HIF-1 signaling pathway, PI3K-AKt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway. Results of molecular docking indicated good binding affinity of Huangqin to stigmastero, baicalein and acacetin. The dynamics simulation indicated that the four complexes possessed reliable structural stability and compactness.ConclusionHuangqin can treat SLE through its effective components such as baicalin and acacetin. The mechanism involves inhibiting inflammatory factors, affecting the expression and activation of immune cells, and regulating cell autophagy. creator: Shuting Zheng creator: Hui Yang creator: Jialing Wu creator: Ou Jin creator: Xi Zhang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19536 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Yang et al. title: Prognostic accuracy of preoperative nutritional indicators of survival in head and neck cancer patients link: https://peerj.com/articles/19496 last-modified: 2025-06-26 description: Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients are known to have high nutritional risk and a high prevalence of malnutrition. The diagnosis of HNC, together with sequelae and other consequences of cancer treatment, directly impacts survival.AimTo determine overall 5-year survival in HNC patients submitted to surgery as their initial treatment and to assess the prognostic accuracy of nutritional anthropometric measurements weight loss percentage (%WL), body mass index (BMI), triceps skinfold (TSF), adductor pollicis muscle thickness (APMT), and calf circumference (CC) to predict survival in this population.MethodsA prospective cohort study of HNC patients treated at a cancer referral center in Bahia’s countryside was conducted.ResultsSeventy-eight patients were included in this study and were followed up for a 5-year period, with an overall survival rate of 52.1%. Most patients were male (83.3%), with a median age of 65.5 years [55–72 years], and most had low education levels, low household income, and a lifestyle marked by alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking. Median values of all nutritional anthropometric variables assessed in this study were significantly lower among patients who died during follow-up, suggesting greater impairment of nutritional status in this group. All nutritional indicators were found to be predictors of survival in the study population, with a prognostic accuracy of 74% for TSF 95% CI [0.63–0.83], 68% for BMI 95% CI [0.56–0.78], 65% for CC 95% CI [0.53–0.75], 63% for APMT 95% CI [0.51–0.63], and 63% for %WL 95% CI [0.51–0.73].ConclusionThe overall 5-year survival rate was found to be 52.1%, and all nutritional anthropometric variables, namely BMI, %WL, TSF, APMT, and CC, were found to be good predictors of survival in HNC patients initially treated with surgery. creator: Neyara dos Santos Oliveira creator: Tercio Guimarães Reis creator: Milena Souza Freitas creator: Marluce Matos Macêdo creator: Jean Carlos Zambrano Contreras creator: Márcio Campos Oliveira creator: José Bessa Júnior uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19496 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Oliveira et al. title: Acoustic and visual monitoring of Peale’s dolphins (Lagenorhynchus australis) in the Magellan Strait link: https://peerj.com/articles/19234 last-modified: 2025-06-26 description: Peale’s dolphins are small odontocetes living in the south Cone of America. As a coastal species, they could be threatened by the growing use of industrial and comercial harbors in the Patagonia region. To the date, their behavior, use of habitat and acoustic productions are still very little known. We report the coupling of visual and acoustic monitoring of a population of Peale’s dolphins in the Magellan Strait. A comparison of visual monitoring and data from several acoustic devices (three C-POD click loggers and HighBlue, a full wave recording device) is presented, assessing the feasibility of long term monitoring through acoustic recording. Finally, acoustic productions of this group of Peale’s dolphins are compared to other groups of Peale’s dolphins and other narrow band high frequency (NBHF) odontocetes of the region. creator: Franck Malige creator: Julie Patris creator: Benjamin Caceres creator: Jonathan Poblete creator: Hervé Glotin creator: Monserrat Saravia creator: Constanza Alarcón-Vera creator: Valentin Barchasz creator: Valentin Gies creator: Sebastian Marzetti creator: Marjorie Fuentes-Riquelme creator: Diego Filún uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19234 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Malige et al. title: Genome-wide identification and characterization of the NF-Y proteins in Zanthoxylum armatum link: https://peerj.com/articles/19142 last-modified: 2025-06-26 description: Somatic embryogenesis from nucellar tissues is common in many Zanthoxylum plants. The nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) transcription factor is pivotal in this process. Despite its significance, the identification and functional analysis of the NF-Y transcription factor family in Zanthoxylum armatum (Z. armatum) remains unexplored. This study identified 67 ZaNF-Y transcription factors in the diploid Z. armatum genome, comprising 20 ZaNF-YA, 30 ZaNF-YB, and 17 ZaNF-YC genes. Gene duplication, conserved domain, and motif analyses revealed the similarity and specificity of ZaNF-Y members in functional evolution. Cis-element analysis suggested that plant hormones and various transcription factor families may regulate ZaNF-Y gene expression, impacting nucellar embryo formation. Expression analysis across tissues indicated that the expression of most ZaNF-Y genes, such as ZaNF-YB5, was low in female flowers. In contrast, ZaNF-YC1 was highly expressed in female flowers and young fruit, indicating their potential role in nucellar embryo formation. Additionally, protein association network analysis provided insights into the composition of ZaNF-Y complexes. Our study enhances understanding of ZaNF-Y transcription factors and provides a basis for harnessing apomixis in hybrid crop production. creator: Xianzhe Zheng creator: Yanling Duan creator: Huifang Zheng creator: Hao Tang creator: Liumeng Zheng creator: Xiaobo Yu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19142 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zheng et al. title: Hemeroby reveals the dynamics of vegetation cover following the destruction of the Kakhovka Reservoir link: https://peerj.com/articles/19607 last-modified: 2025-06-25 description: Floodplain ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by regulating hydrological regimes, conserving biodiversity, and providing essential ecosystem services. The destruction of the Kakhovka Reservoir in June 2023 resulted in a large-scale environmental disaster that profoundly affected both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in the Lower Dnipro region. This study was conducted in the floodplain ecosystems of Khortytsia Island (Ukraine) to assess vegetation changes in response to altered hydrological conditions. Phytosociological mapping of the vegetation cover was performed, and the concept of hemeroby was employed to evaluate the level of anthropogenic transformation of plant communities. Phytoindication scales were utilized to characterize environmental conditions, including humidity, light, and soil properties. Following the destruction of the reservoir, significant changes in the water regime led to the degradation of floodplain water bodies, the expansion of sandy open areas, and the formation of new ecotopes. Twelve distinct plant community associations were identified, each differing in ecological preferences and sensitivity to anthropogenic disturbances. Principal component analysis revealed that most of the variability in plant community composition is explained by gradients in humidity, trophic status, and light availability, all of which are closely associated with hemeroby and naturalness indices. These findings underscore the dominant influence of recent anthropogenic drivers on vegetation structure. A decline in water availability following the reservoir’s destruction emerged as a primary driver of vegetation dynamics in the affected areas. Coastal zones experienced the most pronounced changes, where newly exposed sandy substrates were rapidly colonized by xerophytic and ruderal species, forming highly hemerobic communities. In contrast, more stable conditions in the central part of the island supported the persistence of relatively undisturbed plant assemblages. Increased light levels and elevated soil nutrient content in open areas were also found to promote the spread of species with high hemeroby, reinforcing the connection between altered abiotic conditions and anthropogenic transformation. This study demonstrates that the collapse of the Kakhovka Reservoir triggered rapid shifts in floodplain vegetation, with moisture regime, illumination, and nutrient availability acting as key environmental filters. The observed correspondence between these factors and the level of hemeroby confirms the utility of hemeroby and naturalness indices as effective tools for monitoring post-catastrophic ecological changes and informing future strategies for ecosystem restoration. creator: Olena Lisovets creator: Serhiy Podorozhniy creator: Hanna Tutova creator: Karina Molozhon creator: Olha Kunakh creator: Olexander Zhukov uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19607 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Lisovets et al. title: Dinosaur track assemblages from mid-Cretaceous of Fujian Province, southeastern China: ichnotaxonomic review and faunal comparison link: https://peerj.com/articles/19597 last-modified: 2025-06-24 description: Among the the mid-Cretaceous strata in China, considerable dinosaur record are preserved in the southeastern mountainous and arc-related basins. The Shanghang Basin is one of the sporadic red-stratified basins distributed in western Fujian, SE China, and has previously been discovered as the home of an ornithopod-dominaited ichnofauna, which is also characterized by the large troodontid ichnogenera Fujianipus. Include the newly discovered fossils, further confirming that this tracksite is dominated by ornithopods, characterized by a significant proportion (>27%) of large ornithopods, with deinonychosaurians as the possible apex predators. As the only extensive mid-Cretaceous dinosaur tracksite in southeastern China, Longxing offers a temporal comparison with skeletal records from Zhejiang (SE China) and other fauna globally. The Longxiang herbivorous assemblage may suggesting limited faunal turnover by aligning more closely with pre-Cenomanian than the contemporaneous faunas in Zhejiang. Besides, unlike South American patterns associated with OAE2, the faunal shifts of SE China are relatively mild and appear more influenced by regional factors—topographic barriers and volcanic activities—rather than global climatic signal affected by marine conditions. Further research is needed to refine faunal chronology and assess the impact of regional environmental factors in shaping Cretaceous ecosystems of SE China. creator: Lida Xing creator: Kecheng Niu creator: Qiyan Chen creator: Hendrik Klein creator: Anthony Romilio creator: Runsheng Chen creator: Min Lin creator: Ke Deng creator: Jianrong Tang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19597 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Xing et al. title: miR-381-3p contribution in mouse spontaneous abortion via targeting VEGFA link: https://peerj.com/articles/19568 last-modified: 2025-06-24 description: BackgroundRecurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) affects 1–5% of pregnant women; however, the mechanisms underlying this condition remain unknown. Dysangiogenesis in the placenta is an essential factor in the pathogenesis of RSA. Studies have verified that microRNAs (miRNAs) are vital for RSA; however, their mechanism of action in regulating angiogenesis remains unclear. Therefore, we explored the contribution of key miRNAs that regulate angiogenesis in RSA.MethodsThe abortion mouse model was constructed by intraperitoneal injection of beta2-Glycoprotein I (β2-GPI). The abnormal expression of miRNAs in the placenta of the abortion mice was screened using miRNA-seq. Based on miRNA databases, miR-381-3p, which is highly expressed in abortion mice, may bind to vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). Subsequently, we investigated the effects of the miR-381-3p/VEGFA axis on the angiogenesis of vascular endothelial cells using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Transwell, wound healing, tube formation, western blotting, and dual-luciferase reporter system. Furthermore, an in vivo experiment was used to confirm miR-381-3p knockdown contribution in the abortion mouse model.ResultsmiR-381-3p overexpression inhibited the migration and angiogenesis of C166 cells (a mouse vascular endothelial cell line), whereas miR-381-3p knockdown had the opposite effect. The dual-luciferase reporter system revealed that miR-381-3p bound to the VEGFA 3′ UTR, and VEGFA knockdown counteracted the beneficial effect of the miR-381-3p inhibitor on angiogenesis. An in vivo study demonstrated that miR-381-3p knockdown may reduce inflammation and damage to the placenta and fetus during abortion by activating the VEGFA/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway.ConclusionmiR-381-3p may cause insufficient placental blood flow by inhibiting the VEGFA pathway and can be used as a potential therapeutic target for RSA. creator: Chao Ding creator: Fukang Liu creator: Huayue Shi creator: Jing Zuo creator: Lei Bi creator: Longgang Shao creator: Yanqiu Pan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19568 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Ding et al. title: Heterologous expression of the Stellaria media plant defensin SmD1 in Escherichia coli link: https://peerj.com/articles/19526 last-modified: 2025-06-24 description: SmD1 isolated from seeds of common chickweed Stellaria media has strong inhibitory activity against phytopathogenic fungi and oomycetes in the micromolar range (IC50 ≤ 1 μM). However, the low production of plant defensins in natural strains limits their large-scale actual production. In this study, defensin gene SmD1 was successfully heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) for efficient production of plant defensins. The defensin gene SmD1 fused with thioredoxin was cloned into pET22b (+) vector. Then, it was transformed into E. coli BL21 (DE3) and expressed solubly after induction of isopropyl-β-D-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). At 50 °C, active SmD1 was released by 50% (v/v) formic acid hydrolysis of the cleavage of Asp-Pro bond between fused proteins. The recombinant protein SmD1 was purified by Ni-IDA column and showed significant antifungal activities against fungi. The induction conditions was optimized, and the results showed that the antimicrobial activity reached its maximum when the IPTG had a concentration of 0.6 mmol/L, a temperature of 25 °C, an induction time of 12 h and an OD600 of 0.8. creator: Yiyi Qiu creator: Qiaozhi Song uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19526 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Qiu and Song title: Intra- and inter-rater reliability of ultrasound measurements of the levator ani muscle thickness in and M-mode in asymptomatic individuals: a cross-sectional study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19427 last-modified: 2025-06-24 description: BackgroundThe levator ani muscle (LAM) plays a crucial role in maintaining pelvic floor function, providing support to pelvic organs and assisting in physiological processes such as micturition and defecation. Ultrasound imaging, particularly M-mode ultrasound, has been increasingly employed in the evaluation of pelvic floor muscle activity.ObjectivesThe goal of the present study was to assess the intra- and inter-rater reliability of M-mode ultrasound measurements of LAM thickness, muscle activation speed, and contraction time during a 5-s sustained pelvic floor contraction in asymptomatic women.MethodsThirty-four healthy nulliparous women aged 18 to 25 were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Transabdominal M-mode ultrasound was used to measure the intra- and inter-rater reliability of LAM thickness during maximum pelvic floor contraction. Each participant performed three pelvic floor contractions, with measurements repeated twice.ResultsIntra-rater reliability ranged from poor to good reliability for LAM thickness (ICC = 0.621–0.899), with similar results for pelvic rise time and contraction velocity. Inter-rater reliability was excellent for LAM thickness (ICC = 0.910) but only fair for pelvic rise time and contraction velocity (ICC = 0.673–0.647).ConclusionsM-mode ultrasound imaging demonstrates excellent inter-rater reliability for LAM thickness measurement and fair intra-rater reliability for other functional variables. This technique appears to be a promising method for evaluating pelvic floor muscle activity. creator: Esther Delgado-Pérez creator: Alberto Bermejo-Franco creator: Raquel Díaz-Meco creator: Vanesa Abuín-Porras creator: Carlos Romero-Morales creator: Laura González-Fernández creator: Mónica De-La Cueva-Reguera uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19427 license: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/ rights: title: Self-esteem and stress: a structural equation modelling of biosocial determinants, psychological mediators and anxiety among Malaysian undergraduates link: https://peerj.com/articles/19304 last-modified: 2025-06-24 description: Anxiety is a widespread public health concern affecting youth worldwide, leading to significant functional and social disabilities, various negative social and financial consequences, and even suicidality. However, there is a lack of research examining the roles of self-esteem and stress in mediating factors contributing to anxiety among undergraduate students, particularly in Malaysia. Therefore, this research aims to investigate these determinants and the mediating effects of self-esteem and stress on the relationship between biosocial factors and anxiety among Malaysian undergraduates. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,193 undergraduates using a validated questionnaire. The study examined independent variables including gender, sleep quality, problematic internet use, social support, and mental health literacy; mediators (self-esteem and stress); and anxiety as the dependent variable. After excluding 68 potential outliers, the final structural equation model demonstrated satisfactory goodness of fit (root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.041, χ2/df = 2.918, and comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.925). Mediation analysis using the bootstrapping method revealed that self-esteem and stress fully mediate the relationship between gender, problematic internet use, social support, and anxiety. Mental health literacy was found to be fully mediated by self-esteem alone. Both self-esteem and stress partially mediated the relationship between sleep quality and anxiety. The full mediation structural model accounted for 63.8% of the variance in anxiety. Interventional efforts targeting anxiety among undergraduates could significantly benefit from strategies aimed at enhancing self-esteem and mitigating stress. Future research should explore the levels of emotional social support and its association with anxiety among undergraduate students. creator: Muhammad Ikhwan Mud Shukri creator: Anisah Baharom creator: Ahmad Iqmer Nashriq Mohd Nazan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19304 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Mud Shukri et al. title: Association between serum lipid and papillary thyroid cancer: a retrospective study in China link: https://peerj.com/articles/19644 last-modified: 2025-06-23 description: The incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) has increased drastically in recent decades. Various studies have reported a concurrent rise in PTC morbidity in the obese, implying a possible role of lipids in the pathogenesis of PTC. However, the role of serum lipids in the pathogenesis of PTC requires further investigation. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum lipid levels and PTC. From January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2020, 1,650 PTC and 882 control samples were enrolled for this study. PTC subjects were more likely to have higher body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, triglyceride (TG) levels, and decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) when compared to controls (P < 0.05). Although age and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) did not appear to change across all age groups, the PTC patients exhibited pronounced differences in terms of TG and HDL-C when compared to controls (P < 0.05) for each age group. BMI (odds ratio, OR and 95% CI 1.045 [1.002–1.089], P < 0.038), FGB (OR and 95% CI 2.543 [1.968–3.286], P < 0.001), TG (OR and 95% CI 1.267 [1.025–1.566], P < 0.001), and HDL-C (OR and 95% CI 0.422 [0.289–0.616], P < 0.001) were risk factors of PTC in the multivariate analysis of females. For males, FBG (OR and 95% CI 2.136 [1.551–2.941], P < 0.001), TG (OR and 95% CI 1.264 [1.039–1.615], P < 0.05), total cholesterol (TCH) (OR and 95% CI 0.778 [0.626–0.968], P < 0.001), and HDL-C (OR and 95% CI 0.154 [0.077–0.308], P < 0.001) were risk factors of PTC. Both in the female and male subgroups, patients with tumors > 1 cm in size and multifocality had a greater risk of lymph node metastasis (LNM) among PTC subjects (P < 0.001). The study results revealed that elevated TG and declined HDL-C were related to increased PTC risk among Chinese of both sexes. creator: Zike Zhang creator: Xingyu Lan creator: Long You creator: Dongsheng Han creator: Hui Tang creator: Ying Zhao creator: Xiao Hu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19644 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Zhang et al. title: A predictive framework for identifying source populations of non-native marine macroalgae: Chondria tumulosa in the Pacific Ocean link: https://peerj.com/articles/19610 last-modified: 2025-06-23 description: The cryptogenic marine red alga Chondria tumulosa was first observed in 2016 in subtidal habitats at Manawai (Pearl and Hermes Atoll) in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM), Hawai‘i. Without molecular or morphological matches to any known species, it was described in 2020 and declared cryptogenic. This alga has substantially increased in benthic cover and has been discovered on two additional atolls in PMNM: Kuaihelani (Midway) and Hōlanikū (Kure). It exhibits several characteristics indicative of non-native origins including putative prior absence in the region, persistence in high densities over nearly a decade, apparent lack of native herbivore pressure, and strong tetrasporophytic bias. Importantly, it is negatively impacting the culturally and ecologically valuable reefs of PMNM. The geographical origin of this putative invasion is unknown, and there are no published reports of the species occurring anywhere other than PMNM. The central Pacific location of Hawai‘i allows a broad range of potential sources for the origin of C. tumulosa. Taxonomic ambiguities within the genus Chondria and challenges associated with sampling necessitate the development of a narrowed set of search locations and efficient search strategies to detect the species outside of PMNM. Attachment to floating debris is a potential introduction vector for C. tumulosa into PMNM, and an oceanographic model was used to identify the most likely source locations for this pathway between 2000 and 2015, including Japan in the western Pacific, Johnston Atoll, the Line Islands including Palmyra Atoll in the central Pacific, and Clipperton Atoll and the Galápagos Islands in the eastern Pacific. We used a recently developed and validated eDNA assay for detecting C. tumulosa from three of the regions of interest to screen for C. tumulosa with no samples yielding positive detections. We provide a framework for investigating positive eDNA field detections using in-water surveys, microscopy, and DNA barcoding. A parallel sampling effort targeting preserved specimens stored in global herbaria is also presented, which did not yield any detections. Several Chondria species remain targets for sequencing from global herbaria. Identification of the native range of C. tumulosa is a critical step that will allow for an evaluation of its evolutionary ecology and any shifts that may have occurred that facilitated its putative invasion and subsequent spread, offering insights crucial for the development of mitigation strategies to safeguard PMNM against further risk. creator: James T. Fumo creator: Patrick K. Nichols creator: Taylor Ely creator: Peter B. Marko creator: Amy L. Moran creator: Brian S. Powell creator: Taylor M. Williams creator: Randall K. Kosaki creator: Celia M. Smith creator: Keolohilani H. Lopes creator: Jennifer E. Smith creator: Heather L. Spalding creator: Stacy A. Krueger-Hadfield creator: Karla J. McDermid creator: Brian B. Hauk creator: James Morioka creator: Kevin O’Brien creator: Barbara Kennedy creator: Frederik Leliaert creator: Mutue T. Fujii creator: Wendy A. Nelson creator: Stefano G. A. Draisma creator: Alison R. Sherwood uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19610 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Fumo et al. title: Application of nanotechnology in fruit crops—from synthesis to sustainable packaging link: https://peerj.com/articles/19603 last-modified: 2025-06-23 description: Fresh fruits, rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, contribute positively to human health. However, their perishable nature and post-harvest shelf life contribute to significant worldwide losses, posing sustainable challenges in quality preservation and reducing waste in fruit production. Thus, many advancements have been developed, including nanotechnology, which can potentially increase fruit production by improving its quality, efficiency, and sustainability. Nanoscience is rapidly advancing as one of the key areas of applied research, offering diverse applications in fruit crops. Nanoparticles used in the form of nano-fertilizers, nano-pesticides, nano-coatings, nanofilms, and nano packaging have distinct features used for targeted site-specific pest and disease management, smart nutrient supply, and delivery via biosensor(s) in fruit crops. Moreover, they are synthesized efficiently, functioning rapidly in a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable manner. These innovations collectively address critical challenges in fruit crop management, including promoting plant growth and stress resilience, boosting productivity, extending shelf life, reducing post-harvest damage, and improving crop quality while mitigating environmental impact and ensuring food safety. This review comprehensively highlights substantial insights into using nanoparticles as a promising technique for increasing fruit crop resilience and ensuring food security in the context of environmental changes, as well as the recent application of nanotechnology at various stages of fruit production. creator: S. Ramya creator: J. Auxcilia creator: Biswaranjan Paital creator: D. Jeya Sundara Sharmila creator: P. Irene Vethamoni creator: Sheela Venugopal creator: N. Indra creator: Kizhaeral S. Subramanian creator: Dipak Kumar Sahoo uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19603 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Ramya et al. title: Frequencies and subtypes of glycophorin GYP(B-A-B) hybrids among northern Thais, Burmese, and Karen with a previous history of malaria infection: a study in the Thailand-Myanmar border area link: https://peerj.com/articles/19589 last-modified: 2025-06-23 description: BackgroundEvidence indicates that genetic variations in the GYP(B-A-B) hybrid genes are associated with protection against malaria. Therefore, this study aims to characterize the GYP(B-A-B) hybrid alleles among northern Thais, Burmese, and Karen with and without a previous history of malaria infection.MethodsA total of 709 DNA samples were genotyped to identify GYP(B-A-B) hybrids using PCR-sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP) combined with Sanger sequencing. Additionally, some DNA samples (n = 243) were also tested with high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis.ResultsIn our sampled populations, 14/87 (16.0%), 3/34 (8.8%), 0/16 (0%), and 1/18 (5.6%) of northern Thais, Burmese, Karen, and other minorities in Myanmar with a previous history of malaria infection, respectively, were identified with GYP(B-A-B) hybrid genes, whereas individuals without a history of malaria infection were 24/155 (15.5%), 5/183 (2.6%), and 4/216 (1.9%) in northern Thais, Burmese, and Karen, respectively. In the latter groups, DNA sequences showed that 17/155 (11.0%) northern Thais were GYP*Mur/GYPB heterozygotes and the other 6/155 (3.9%) were GYP*Thai/GYPB heterozygotes. The remaining one (0.6%) sample was a GYP*Mur/GYP*Mur homozygote. Among Burmese, 3/183 (1.6%) were GYP*Mur/GYPB heterozygotes and 1/183 (0.5%) was GYP*Thai/GYPB heterozygote. The remaining one (0.5%) sample being a GYP*Mur/GYP*Mur homozygote. Among Karen samples, all four were GYP*Mur/GYPB heterozygotes.ConclusionAcross all studied populations, GYP*Mur was the predominant allele, followed by GYP*Thai. In addition, genotyping results obtained by HRM were consistent with PCR-SSP combined with Sanger sequencing. A statistically non-significant association was noted for the glycophorin GYP(B-A-B) hybrids and malaria infection. Our findings provide insight into genetic variations of GYP(B-A-B) hybrid alleles among populations in the Thailand-Myanmar border area. This information could be used as a guideline to identify compatible blood products for transfusion and to prevent alloimmunization. creator: Pornsawan Srichankhot creator: Arissara Nakapong creator: Anocha Sukhanpob creator: Panadda Chapandoong creator: Amonrat Jumnainsong creator: Chanvit Leelayuwat creator: Piyapong Simtong uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19589 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Srichankhot et al. title: Impact of precipitation levels on vegetation in ecologically fragile karst areas in the Guangxi (China) karst region link: https://peerj.com/articles/19565 last-modified: 2025-06-23 description: To investigate the distribution pattern of regional rainstorm disasters and their impact on vegetation in karst regions of Guangxi, two vegetation parameters, fractional vegetation cover (FVC) and net primary productivity (NPP), are selected to analyze the spatial response characteristics and forest species from five rainfall levels: moderate rainfall, heavy rain, rainstorm, heavy rainstorm and extremely heavy rainstorm). Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), fractional vegetation cover (FVC), and net primary productivity (NPP) are used to analyze the spatial response characteristics of different vegetation remote sensing parameters. The results show that: (1) The effects of extremely heavy rainfall on the NDVI, FVC and NPP of vegetation are significantly greater than those of other types of rainfall; (2) The southwestern and central parts are the concentration areas of high negative impacts of extremely heavy rainfall and heavy rainfall on the remote sensing indices of vegetation; (3) Different levels of rainfall have a great negative effect on NDVI and FVC in economic and broadleaf forests, while eucalyptus forests have a less effect. The results indicate that vegetation protection should be carried out in a concentrated manner based on geographical and species-specific differences, especially in areas with high incidence of extremely heavy rainfall and regions dominated by economical value and vegetation types. This study can provide a scientific basis for improving the management of rocky desertification and assessing the impact of rainstorm disaster on vegetation in karst regions of Guangxi. creator: Mingzhi Li creator: Ying Xie creator: Yanli Chen creator: Yue Zhang creator: Weihua Mo uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19565 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Li et al. title: Associations of physical fitness with sustained overt attention and academic performance in children with learning disabilities link: https://peerj.com/articles/19549 last-modified: 2025-06-23 description: Physical fitness has consistently been linked to cognitive and academic performance, with sustained attention recognized as a key predictor of academic success (DOI 10.1123/apaq.2019-0108). However, few studies have explored whether sustained attention moderate the relationship between physical fitness and academic performance in children with learning disabilities (LD), and existing findings remain inconclusive due to certain limitations. This study investigated the moderating role of sustained attention in the association between physical fitness and academic performance among children with LD while also addressing the related limitations. This study enrolled 71 elementary school children with LD (33 girls, mean age = 11.03 years ± 0.82), who participated in the assessment of physical fitness. Additionally, sustained attention was measured using the DAUF Sustained Attention Test from the Vienna Testing System, while academic performance was assessed using Chinese language and mathematics tests” as recommended. Bivariate analyses showed that academic performance was, as a dependent variable, significantly and positively related to physical fitness (r = .22 & .24, p < .05) and significantly negatively related to DAUF sustained attention (r =  − .51 & −.43, p < .01) in children with LD. Additionally, the hierarchical regression analysis revealed that sustained attention moderated the association between physical fitness, Chinese language (β =  − 4.03, p < .05), and mathematics (β =  − 5.00, p < .01) after controlling for selected socio-demographic characteristics. These findings have major implications for child development, emphasizing the key role of physical fitness in the beneficial effects of sustained attention on academic achievement. creator: Hui-Ping Chang creator: Tzu-Wen Lin creator: Yi-Hsiang Chiu creator: Chien-Chih Chou creator: Jui-Fu Chen creator: Cheng-Chen Pan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19549 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Chang et al. title: Prognostic value of lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio in patients with endometrial cancer: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19345 last-modified: 2025-06-23 description: BackgroundEvaluating the risk of metastasis at diagnosis and the likelihood of future recurrence is crucial for the effective management of endometrial cancer (EC). While conventional prognostic indicators hold importance, they often fall short in predicting recurrence, especially in low-risk patients. This study evaluates the prognostic value of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) for overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS) in EC patients.MethodsEligible studies that provided pretreatment cutoff values of LMR, hazard ratios (HRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for OS, DFS, CSS, and progression-free survival (PFS) were included in this meta-analysis. Two independent reviewers collected and evaluated the data, and the quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). Statistical analyses were performed using STATA software, and subgroup analyses were conducted by race, sample size, and age to assess the consistency of LMR’s prognostic value across different population groups.ResultsIn this meta-analysis, eight studies were included for OS (1,997 patients) and five studies were included for DFS (1,590 patients). LMR was significantly associated with OS (HR 2.29; 95% CI [1.50–3.51]; p = 0.0014), DFS (HR 4.00; 95% CI [1.76–9.07]; p = 0.0094), and CSS (HR, 1.58; 95% CI [1.11–2.25]; p = 0.01). Subgroup analysis indicated that the prognostic value of LMR for OS was consistent across different races, age groups, and sample sizes. However, the correlation between LMR and DFS was influenced by median age, with younger patients (<60 years) showing a stronger association. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these results, and Egger’s test showed no significant publication bias.DiscussionLMR serves as a valuable prognostic marker for OS, DFS, and CSS in EC patients. Its predictive power remains significant across diverse population groups, underscoring its potential utility in clinical practice. Biological mechanisms linking inflammation and cancer support the role of LMR in prognosis, given the functions of lymphocytes and monocytes in tumor progression and immune response. These findings suggest that incorporating LMR into current prognostic models could enhance risk stratification for EC patients, particularly for identifying those at higher risk of recurrence despite being classified as low risk by traditional systems. In conclusion, LMR is a robust, independent prognostic factor for EC, with significant implications for improving patient management and outcomes through better risk stratification. creator: Zijing Huang creator: Donghua Yang creator: Congrong Liu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19345 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Huang et al. title: Association of triglyceride-glucose index with postoperative recovery-related factors in type II cesarean scar pregnancy treated by transvaginal surgery link: https://peerj.com/articles/19632 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: BackgroundType II cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is a rare and serious condition. The triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) may influence postoperative recovery-related factors (PRRF) as a marker of insulin resistance. This study investigates the relationship between TyG and PRRF in patients with type II CSP undergoing transvaginal surgery.MethodsForty-five patients treated from January 2019 to September 2023 were analyzed. Data on surgical duration, intraoperative blood loss, length of stay, hospitalization costs, and recovery were collected and assessed against TyG levels.ResultsA significant correlation was found between TyG and hospitalization costs (β = −677.5, p = 0.02). Higher TyG levels were associated with shorter hospital stays and lower costs, while no significant associations were observed with other factors.ConclusionTyG is associated with hospitalization costs and length of stay in type II CSP patients, suggesting its potential to predict healthcare resource utilization. Further research is needed to explore its role in surgical risk assessment. creator: Xiaoyan Li creator: Shuhua Liu creator: Dehong Liu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19632 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Li et al. title: Effect of Fusarium proliferatum infection on physiological, phytochemical, and nutrient responses in garlic link: https://peerj.com/articles/19601 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: Fusarium species are significant pathogens in many crops, including garlic (Allium sativum), threatening yield and food safety through mycotoxin production. This study investigates the physiological, phytochemical, and nutrient responses of garlic genotypes (Local-Konya, Babaeski-Kırklareli, and Iranian-Balıkesir) to Fusarium proliferatum infection. Phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, protein content, and macro- and microelement levels were assessed in healthy and infected garlic genotypes. Infection by F. proliferatum led to a significant increase in phenolic compounds, especially resveratrol and catechin. The Iranian-Balıkesir genotype exhibited the highest response, showing a 110.9% rise in total phenolic content. Regarding antioxidant activity, 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazy (DPPH) inhibition also rose in all genotypes with the rate of 41.57–55.5% in diseased groups in comparison with healthy groups. However, the protein content of garlic was declined by infection of F. proliferatum in all genotypes. Elemental analysis revealed that there were notable drops in potassium and calcium levels, particularly in Local-Konya genotype, but the other elements in plants either increased or decreased accordingly. It was observed that garlic genotypes responded differently to F. proliferatum infection in organic acid components. These findings highlighted that F. proliferatum infestation in garlic enhanced phenolic production and antioxidant activities as a defense mechanism, but the amount of nutrient content of plants according to fertilization will also affect developing resistance to disease physiologically. creator: Kamil Sarpkaya uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19601 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Sarpkaya title: Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in juvenile green turtle (Chelonia mydas) carcasses, rearing seawater, feed and their antibiotic resistances link: https://peerj.com/articles/19579 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic bacterium that can infect humans and animals. We previously reported that Staphylococcus aureus as one of the most frequent Gram-positive bacteria found in the infection in juvenile green turtles (Chelonia mydas) from the Sea Turtle Conservation Center of Thailand (STCCT), Sattahip, Chonburi Province. It was also the most detected Gram-positive bacteria in rearing seawater. In this study, we investigated the presence of S. aureus in coastal seawater used as supply water to rearing containers, rearing water, fish fillet used as feed, and juvenile green turtle carcasses at STCCT. From the results, S. aureus can be isolated from rearing water, fish fillet, and juvenile turtle carcasses but not from incoming coastal seawater. The determination of antibiotic resistance against 11 drugs demonstrated that more S. aureus from juvenile turtles were antibiotic resistant than the isolates from rearing water and fish fillet. Furthermore, a higher isolate number of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was found in juvenile turtle carcasses. We also detected penicillin-susceptible MRSA and mecA-positive methicillin-susceptible S. aureus from juvenile turtles and fish fillet, respectively. Differences in the antibiotic resistance profiles were observed in this study compared with our previous observation. A change in the antibiotic resistance properties possibly continued in S. aureus. This finding suggests that the status of animal health is at high risk and emphasizes the need for a surveillance plan and treatment strategies to confront this serious threat. creator: Thanaporn Chuen-im creator: Korapan Sawetsuwannakun creator: Thongchai Taechowisan creator: Nakarin Kitkumthorn uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19579 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Chuen-im et al. title: Psychological distress and pregnancy outcomes in early-stage gestational hypertension: a case-control study from China link: https://peerj.com/articles/19574 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: ObjectiveThis study aimed to elucidate the pathophysiological role of psychological distress in early-stage gestational hypertension (GH) through comprehensive assessment of its regulatory effects on disease progression and association with adverse pregnancy outcomes, thereby providing evidence-based support for early screening and intervention strategies.MethodsWe conducted a prospective case-control study involving 446 patients with early-stage GH (diagnostic criteria: new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation, blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg without proteinuria) and 200 normotensive pregnant women as controls. Psychological distress was assessed using the Self-Rated Anxiety Scale (SAS). A multidimensional statistical approach, including univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression, was employed to systematically explore the risk factors that influence psychological distress. Pregnancy and perinatal outcomes were compared using Chi-square tests and t-tests.ResultsThe study revealed a markedly elevated prevalence of psychological distress in the early-stage GH group (20.9%) compared to controls (7.0%, P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified educational level (OR = 2.298, 95% CI [1.289–4.097]), history of adverse pregnancy (OR = 2.604, 95% CI [1.342–5.050]), and GH itself (OR = 1.859, 95% CI [1.213–2.850]) as independent risk factors for psychological distress. Follow-up data demonstrated that patients with psychological distress exhibited significantly higher rates of progression to preeclampsia (24.7% vs. 12.7%, P < 0.05), along with increased incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including premature rupture of membranes, postpartum hemorrhage, neonatal infection, macrosomia, and low birth weight.ConclusionsThis study provides a systematic characterization of psychological distress patterns in early stage GH patients and their potential impact on disease progression. Findings highlight the critical importance of integrating routine psychological screening and early intervention strategies into prenatal care for patients with GH to optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes. creator: Xilian Li creator: Rongmin Wang creator: Xian Xia creator: Dongdong Shi creator: Lili Gong creator: Biao Gao uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19574 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: © 2025 Li et al. title: Self-care practices and associated factors among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending public hospitals in Bale zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia link: https://peerj.com/articles/19529 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: BackgroundType 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. Effective self-care, including medication management, dietary changes, exercise, regular blood sugar monitoring, education and support, stress management, regular healthcare visits, foot care, and sleep hygiene, is essential for its management.ObjectiveThe study aimed to gather data on how well patients managed their diabetes through self-care activities, which are crucial for maintaining optimal health outcomes.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in public hospitals in the Bale zone of Ethiopia from February 5 to March 22, 2024. Using systematic random sampling, 411 patients over 18 with type 2 diabetes were selected. Data were collected via interviewer-administered questionnaires, entered into Kobotoolbox, and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Choosing all existing public hospitals in Bale Zone provided comprehensive insights into type 2 diabetes management while adhering to ethical standards, ensuring participant protection and enhanced research credibility through valid instruments designed for accurate data collection.ResultsIn this study, 59.4% of the 411 participants demonstrated satisfactory diabetes self-care practices, while 40.6% exhibited inadequate practices. Significant factors influencing self-care included higher income (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.19–4.80], P < 0.014), private sector employment (AOR: 2.09, 95% CI [1.06–4.13], P < 0.033), receiving diabetic education (AOR: 2.85, 95% CI [1.33–6.12], P < 0.007), membership in a diabetic association (AOR: 1.85, 95% CI [0.93–3.67], P < 0.077), possessing good self-care knowledge (AOR: 2.04, 95% CI [1.24–3.34], P < 0.004), and having no diabetic complications (AOR: 2.68, 95% CI [1.64–4.36], P < 0.000).ConclusionDiabetes self-care practices among type 2 diabetes patients in Bale, Ethiopia, are not sufficient. These practices are affected by several factors, such as socioeconomic status, access to diabetes education, membership in diabetes associations, and overall knowledge about self-care. Targeted support and education are crucial for individuals with lower incomes and those in non-private jobs. Enhancing access to diabetic education and promoting membership in diabetic associations can significantly improve self-care practices. Furthermore, it is essential to focus on knowledge enhancement and preventive care for complications during public hospital follow-ups in the Bale Zone. creator: Eshetu Zemen creator: Yimer Seid Yimer creator: Negussie Deyessa Kabeta creator: Yonas Abebe uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19529 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Zemen et al. title: Innate immunity, therapeutic targets and monoclonal antibodies in SARS-CoV-2 infection link: https://peerj.com/articles/19462 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), stands as one of the most severe pandemics the world has ever faced in recent times. SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibits a wide range of symptoms, varying from severe manifestations to mild cases and even asymptomatic carriers. This diversity stems from a multitude of factors, including genetic predisposition, viral variants, and immune status. During SARS-CoV-2 infection, the immune system engages pattern recognition receptors, setting off a series of intricate signalling cascades. These cascades culminate in the activation of innate immune responses, including induction of type I and type III interferons. The emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 pose challenges to the innate immune system defense. Therefore, investigating the innate immune response is crucial for effectively combating SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. The cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophoshate synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway, a critical innate immune mechanism, represents a promising target for intervention at multiple stages to reduce the severity and progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review explores innate immunity in SARS-CoV-2 infection and other immune responses critical for SARS-CoV-2 defence. As part of the therapeutic approach, we extend our review to highlight monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as emerging and effective therapeutics for controlling SARS-CoV-2 by targeting different stages of the innate immune system. A diverse range of mAbs has been explored to address specific targets within the innate immune pathways. A deep understanding of innate immunity and targeted monoclonal therapeutics will be instrumental in combating viruses and their variants, laying the foundation for enhanced treatment and therapeutic strategies. creator: Mubashir Nazir creator: Ishfaq Rashid Mir creator: Shabir Ahmad Lone creator: Ghazala Muteeb creator: Ragib Alam creator: Anis Bashir Fomda creator: Nida Khan creator: Asim Azhar creator: Bashir Ahmad Fomda creator: Wajihul Hasan Khan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19462 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Nazir et al. title: Integrative omics analysis of plant-microbe synergies in petroleum pollution remediation link: https://peerj.com/articles/19396 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: As the petrochemical industry continues to advance, the exacerbation of ecological imbalance and environmental degradation due to petroleum pollution is increasingly pronounced. The synergistic interaction between plants and microorganisms are pivotal in the degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons; however, the underlying degradation mechanisms are not yet fully understood. This study aims to contribute to understanding these mechanisms by employing a multi-omics approach, integrating transcriptomics, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and metabolomics, to analyze key differential genes, dominant microbial strains, and root-secreted metabolites involved in petroleum hydrocarbon degradation in alfalfa. Our findings revealed that several stress-related genes are upregulated in alfalfa contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbon. Moreover, Pseudomonas, Rhodococcus, and Brevundimonas were identified as dominant species in the rhizosphere microbiome. Metabolomics analysis identified pantothenic acid, malic acid, and ascorbic acid as critical metabolites that enhance hydrocarbon degradation. Application of pantothenic acid in oil-contaminated soil increased the degradation rate by approximately 10% compared to other treatments. These results highlight the potential of alfalfa-based phytoremediation strategies and offer a novel perspective for improving the efficiency of soil decontamination. Further research is needed to validate the scalability of these strategies for practical applications. creator: Yi-Qian Mu creator: Jian-Bo Song creator: Min Zhao creator: Peng Ren creator: Han-Yu Liu creator: Xuan Huang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19396 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Mu et al. title: Association between gestational weight gain-related attitudes, pre-pregnancy weight and prenatal health behaviours link: https://peerj.com/articles/19349 last-modified: 2025-06-20 description: BackgroundPrenatal health behaviors and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) can influence gestational weight gain (GWG) attitudes, this specific connection has not been extensively studied among pregnant women in Saudi Arabia. This study aims to explore the association between GWG attitudes, pre-pregnancy weight, and prenatal health behaviors among Saudi pregnant women.MethodsA correlational cross-sectional study was conducted in Najran, Saudi Arabia, from March to May 2024. The study included 413 pregnant women. An online self-reported questionnaire was used to collect data, which involved three main parts: participants’ basic data, the Pregnancy and Weight Gain Attitude Scale (PWAS), and the Prenatal Health Behavior Scale (PHBS). Logistic regression was applied to explore the association between GWG attitudes, pre-pregnancy BMI, and prenatal health behaviours.ResultsLogistic regression analysis showed that pre-pregnancy BMI outside the healthy range negatively predicts positive attitudes toward excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG). Being overweight [AOR = 0.434, P = 0.017, 95% CI [0.219–0.861]] or obese [AOR = 0.157, P = 0.001, 95% CI [0052–0.469]] significantly decreased the probability of positive attitudes toward EGWG when compared with normal weight. Furthermore, practising health-promoting behaviours during pregnancy [AOR = 0.132, P = 0.001, 95% CI [0.050–0.483]] significantly decreased the probability of a positive attitude toward EGWG.ConclusionThis study emphasized the important role of pre-pregnancy BMI and prenatal health-promoting behaviours in maintaining appropriate GWG attitudes. Therefore, healthcare providers have to play a proactive role and start early by securing a normal BMI before pregnancy and educating women about prenatal health-promoting behaviours. creator: Wafaa Taha Elgzar creator: Majed Said Alshahrani creator: Nouf Salem Alshahrani creator: Heba Abdel-Fatah Ibrahim uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19349 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Elgzar et al. title: Untargeted metabolites profiling of volatile components of Chinese Antique Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) GC/MS link: https://peerj.com/articles/19600 last-modified: 2025-06-19 description: Floral scent is a crucial characteristic that significantly influences reproductive processes and indicates the ornamental value of many plants. Antique Lotus (Nelumbo), an important ornamental germplasm, has high archaeological and cultural value in China. Although many studies have examined this plant, the floral fragrance characteristics remain unexplored. This study analyzed floral volatile profiles in three floral organs from six Antique Lotus. A combination of dynamic headspace collections and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses revealed a total of 64 volatile components, comprising 38 terpenoids, two benzenoids/phenylpropanoids, and 24 fatty acid derivatives. The stamens were found to contain the greatest number of volatile compounds, while petals exhibit the highest content. Fatty acid derivatives were the primary volatile substances in petals, while stamens and receptacles were dominated by benzenoids/phenylpropanoids. These findings not only lay a foundation for aroma breeding but also provide a theoretical basis for the resource development of Antique Lotus. creator: Haohui Wei creator: Yizhou Wang creator: Xiaohan Wang creator: Xian Zhou creator: Huijin Zhang creator: Meiling Mo creator: Liangsheng Wang creator: Yanlin Li creator: Qian Wu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19600 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Wei et al. title: Biological and genetic structure of Epinephelus costae (Steindachner, 1878) population in Iskenderun Bay, eastern Mediterranean Sea link: https://peerj.com/articles/19594 last-modified: 2025-06-19 description: This study aimed to status of the Iskenderun population of Epinephelus costae, an important fish species in the Mediterranean Sea ecosystem, by providing detailed data on its genetic structure using mtDNA COI gene region and biological parameters as length-weight relationship, age-growth characteristics, von Bertalanffy growth parameters. A total of 325 specimens were studied from Iskenderun Bay in the eastern Mediterranean (Türkiye), ranging in length from 16.7 to 43.5 cm. For genetic studies using the mtDNA COI gene region, 30 samples were selected from different size groups representing the population. Age 2 represented the majority of the population (31.69%). The value of “b” of the length-weight relationship was higher than “3” (3.0839). The results for the von Bertalanffy growth parameters were observed as Lα = 125.8 cm; k = 0.0570 year −1; t0 =  − 2.2410 year. Fulton’s condition factor was observed as 1.4120. The growth performance index was calculated as 4.35. The genetic diversity of the population was found to be 0.0332 ± 0.0028. Sixteen haplotypes were observed in the population and haplotype diversity was calculated as 0.9379. Tajima’s neutrality test (−0.9437), Fu’s Fs Statistic (−0.0340), Strobeck’s S Statistic (0.6620), Achaz’s Y test (−1.8728), Fu and Li D (1.1570) and F Test (0.4444) were applied to test whether the population is in balance. In conclusion, the biological and genetic analyses carried out within the scope of our study revealed that the Iskenderun population of E. costae is in stable condition. creator: Servet Ahmet Doğdu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19594 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Doğdu title: Utilizing spent mushroom substrate for rearing black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae: enhancing fertilizer efficiency and improving animal feed quality for sustainable agriculture link: https://peerj.com/articles/19590 last-modified: 2025-06-19 description: Spent mushroom substrate (SMS), a byproduct of mushroom cultivation, has high potential as a substrate for rearing animals, including black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). However, due to its low nutrient content, mixing it with other organic waste is necessary to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness. We evaluated three types of SMS—Agrocybe cylindracea, Lentinus polychrous, and Pleurotus pulmonarius—supplemented with mixed vegetables at three different levels (0% (VEG or control), 15%, and 30% (w/w)) and subjected to two pre-treatment processes (non-fermented and fermented). The SMS from three different mushroom types did not differ much in their influences upon BSFL growth performance at a 15% (w/w) SMS supplement, and were similar to VEG. Increasing the SMS level to 30% resulted in smaller larval, prepupal, and pupal weights. Self-fermentation of SMS for two months neither significantly altered its nutrient composition nor affected larval growth. However, it resulted in a better nutrient quality of the BSFL biomass and its frass, which was associated with the nutrient composition in SMS. Accordingly, BSFL decomposition significantly enhanced the efficiency of low-nutrient substrates, resulting in a 6- to 10-fold increased protein content in the larval biomass and higher total nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK) levels in their frass compared to raw SMS. Nevertheless, further optimizing the substrate formulation would likely enhance the benefits from available waste materials and so support sustainable agriculture. creator: Kanokkan Kanjanarat creator: Parichart Laksanawimol creator: Jittawadee Lersawhanwaree creator: Sarayut Khan creator: Anchana Thancharoen uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19590 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Kanjanarat et al. title: Evaluation of Funneliformis mosseae inoculation effects on growth, nutrient uptake, and essential oil content in Turkish oregano under drought stress link: https://peerj.com/articles/19499 last-modified: 2025-06-19 description: BackgroundTurkish oregano (Origanum onites L.) is a perennial herb widely recognized for its medicinal, cosmetic, and culinary uses due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Drought is a significant stressor for crops, particularly affecting O. onites quality and yield. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) establish symbiotic relationships with plant roots, enhance plant growth, and improve tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought.MethodsThis study investigates the effects of Funneliformis mosseae inoculation on O. onites growth, nutrient content, and essential oil yield under varying drought conditions. A factorial experiment was conducted with eight treatments, consisting of two factors: irrigation levels (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25%) and AMF inoculation (with and without). The experimental design was completely randomized with three replicates.ResultsResults demonstrated that AMF inoculation significantly improved the fresh and dry weight of O. onites compared to non-inoculated controls (+11% and +16%, respectively). Moreover, AMF-inoculated plants showed notable increases in potassium (+7%) and nitrogen (+12%) contents. The essential oil yield was also significantly higher in AMF-inoculated plants (+3%). Increasing water stress levels significantly decreased the number of AMF spores (−47%) and the percentage of fungal colonization (−57%). Nevertheless, under drought stress mycorrhizal inoculation significantly maintained plant biomass and nutrient uptake comparable to full irrigation. The AMF drought tolerance effects were confirmed at 75%, 50%, and 25% irrigation rates. creator: Mina Najafi creator: Burçin Çokuysal creator: Younes Rezaee Danesh creator: Beatrice Farda creator: Amedeo Mignini creator: Marika Pellegrini uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19499 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Najafi et al. title: Seed dormancy types and germination characteristics of six plants in the dry-warm valley of Jinshajiang River, SW China link: https://peerj.com/articles/19559 last-modified: 2025-06-18 description: Seed dormancy and the requirements for germination following dormancy release are critical factors influencing the success of seedling establishment. This study examined six plant species from the dry-warm valley region of the Jinshajiang River in southwestern China, investigating their seed dormancy types and germination characteristics. Initially, germination tests were conducted using freshly matured seeds at alternating temperatures of 25/15 and 15/5 °C under light conditions. Subsequently, after dry after-ripening (DAR), germination was retested. Additionally, dried seeds were incubated under a range of constant temperatures (5–37 °C) under light conditions. The effects of darkness and GA3 on seed germination were evaluated at alternating temperatures of 25/15 and 15/5 °C. Cardinal temperatures and thermal time requirements for 50% final germination (θ50) were determined. The increase in final germination following seed coat scarification indicated that Sophora davidii seeds exhibited physical dormancy at dispersal. Treatment with DAR and/or GA3 effectively alleviated dormancy in the other five species (Osteomeles schwerinae, Excoecaria acerifolia, Leonurus japonicus, Incarvillea arguta, Berberis concolor), particularly at the cooler temperature regime of 15/5 °C, suggesting that these species possess non-deep physiological dormancy. Once dormancy is alleviated, seeds of all six plant species can germinate across a broad temperature spectrum, and the temperature window (Tb-Tc) for germination is much wider than the actual germination range. Alternating temperatures did not significantly enhance germination rates compared to constant temperatures, except for L. japonicus. Seeds of L. japonicus exhibited a strict light requirement for germination at alternating temperatures of 25/15 and 15/5 °C, whereas the other five plant species germinated effectively in darkness at the warmer alternating temperature of 25/15 °C. Thus, our hypothesis that dormancy and germination traits restrict germination to the summer (rainy season) is supported. This ensures that seedlings can establish themselves once soil moisture and temperature conditions become favorable. This research offers a valuable scientific reference for vegetation restoration efforts in dry-warm valley regions. creator: Lijuan Dong creator: Boyang Geng creator: Yuting Xu creator: Wei Yu creator: Li-E Yang creator: Deli Peng uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19559 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Dong et al. title: Prevalence of obesity and associated risk factors among university students using the newly developed Student Lifestyle and Obesity Risk Questionnaire (SLORQ): a cross-sectional study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19556 last-modified: 2025-06-18 description: BackgroundObesity is a significant global health challenge, with a rising prevalence among young adults. University students are particularly vulnerable to lifestyle transitions and environmental influences. However, current assessment tools lack comprehensive multidimensional coverage of obesity risk factors, especially tailored to the cultural context of Saudi University students, representing a significant gap this study aims to address.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence of obesity among university students and identify behavioral, environmental, and demographic risk factors contributing to obesity via the Student Lifestyle and Obesity Risk Questionnaire (SLORQ).MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted from March to July 2024 and involved 907 students across 11 colleges at Majmaah University. Anthropometric data (height and weight) were objectively measured by the primary author, with students barefoot and wearing minimal clothing. The participants completed a self-reported validated, bilingual questionnaire (SLORQ) assessing six domains: physical activity, dietary habits, sleep patterns, weight management, metabolic health, and environmental factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations), chi-square tests for categorical associations, and multiple linear regression for continuous predictors. Structural validity was assessed via principal component analysis (PCA); reliability included Cronbach’s α (≥ 0.70) and intrarater reliability, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).ResultsFollowing data collection, statistical analyses revealed that the prevalence of obesity was 15% (n = 136), with 40% classified as overweight. SLORQ scores revealed inverse relationships between body mass index (BMI) and health behaviors, particularly dietary habits (r =  − 0.912, p < 0.001) and physical activity (r =  − 0.614, p < 0.001). No significant differences in BMI were observed based on gender, age, or region. Regression analysis indicated that diet, sleep, and physical activity accounted for most of the variance in BMI, highlighting their importance in obesity prevention. The questionnaire’s internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.915) and intrarater reliability (ICC = 0.999) were assessed to ensure validity.ConclusionObesity among university students at Majmaah University is influenced by poor dietary practices, inadequate physical activity, and insufficient sleep. These findings underscore the need for targeted health promotion campaigns and campus-wide interventions to address modifiable risk factors. The SLORQ has proven effective in assessing multidimensional obesity risk factors and can guide future research and policymaking. creator: Mohamed K. Seyam uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19556 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Seyam title: Mito-fission gene prognostic model for colorectal cancer link: https://peerj.com/articles/19522 last-modified: 2025-06-18 description: BackgroundDysregulated cellular metabolism is one of the major causes of colorectal cancer (CRC), including mitochondrial fission. Therefore, this study focuses on the specific regulatory mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction on CRC, which will provide theoretical guidance for CRC in the future.MethodsThe Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-CRC dataset, GSE103479 dataset and 40 mitochondrial fission-related genes (MFRGs) were downloaded in this study. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed in TCGA-CRC samples. Using MFRGs scores as traits, key module genes associated with its scores were screened by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Then, differentially expressed MFRGs (DE-MFRGs) were obtained by intersecting DEGs and key module genes. Next, DE-MFRGs were subjected to univariate Cox, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), multivariate Cox and stepwise regression analysis to scree hub genes and to construct the risk model. The risk model was validated in GSE103479. Finally, the hub genes were comprehensively investigated through a multi-faceted approach encompassing clinical characteristic analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), immune infiltration analysis, and drug sensitivity prediction. Subsequently, the expression levels of the identified key genes were validated utilizing quantitative real-time fluorescence PCR (qRT-PCR), reinforcing the findings and ensuring their accuracy.ResultsThe 49 DE-MFRGs were gained by intersecting 3,310 DEGs and 1,952 key module genes. Then, CCDC68, FAM151A and MC1R were screened as hub genes. Also, the risk model validated in GSE103479 showed that the higher the risk score, the worse the survival of CRC patients. Furthermore, T/N/M stages were differences in risk scores between subgroups of clinical characteristics. The memory CD4+ T cell and plasma cell were more significant differences in the low-risk group samples. The 51 drugs were showed a better response in the high-risk group patients. RT-qPCR validation results showed that CCDC68 and FAM151A were down-regulated in CRC, while MC1R was up-regulated, consistent with the validation set results. And FAM151A and MC1R showed highly significant difference between CRC and normal samples (P < 0.0001).ConclusionIn this study, we found CCDC68, FAM151A and MC1R as potential hub genes in CRC, and analyzed the molecular mechanism of mitochondrial affecting CRC, which would provide theoretical reference value for CRC. creator: Chao Liu creator: Sheng Xu creator: Yuanyuan Liu creator: Zhixing Lu creator: Jianrong Yang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19522 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Liu et al. title: Human and conservation factors affect spatial variation of reef fish assemblages in Colombian Pacific reefs link: https://peerj.com/articles/19482 last-modified: 2025-06-18 description: Humans have both negative and positive impacts on marine communities: human everyday activities can degrade ecosystems, while conservation efforts can support their protection and recovery. Using an empirical database of fish assemblages compiled from 393 underwater visual censuses along the Colombian Pacific Coast, we assessed spatial variation in these assemblages and investigated whether they are shaped by human pressures, such as number of fishers and proximity to markets, as well as conservation measures, including protection status and the age of the marine protected areas. Our study reveals that remote locations have a higher fish density and biomass than those near the coast. We found that grunts (Haemulidae) were the most species-rich family and contributed the most to fish density and biomass. Piscivores were the trophic group most affected by human factors, showing lower species richness, density, and biomass in coastal locations. In contrast, other trophic groups did not show a negative response to human factors across locations. We did not observe an effect of human and conservation factors on the total species richness. To evaluate the potential influence of Malpelo island, the only oceanic location in the dataset, we built two models, one with and one without this site. The results were consistent across both models, indicating that including or excluding Malpelo did not alter overall patterns of species richness. However, market distance negatively influenced the average fish density and biomass when all locations were included. Our results provide the first quantitative assessment of fish assemblages across the Colombian Pacific Coast, enabling future comparison and enhancing our understanding of the effects of human and conservation activities on the patterns of species richness, density, and biomass of reef fishes in the Eastern Tropical Pacific. creator: Juan P. Quimbayo creator: Luis Chasqui creator: Natalia Rincón-Díaz creator: Adriana Alzate creator: Fernando A. Zapata uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19482 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Quimbayo et al. title: Skeletal ossification of Middle Triassic pachypleurosaur Keichousaurus hui (Reptilia: Sauropterygia) revealed by zinc distribution link: https://peerj.com/articles/19475 last-modified: 2025-06-18 description: The elemental composition of seven specimens of Keichousaurus hui, a small pachypleurosaur from the Middle Triassic of China, was analyzed via Micro X-ray fluorescence (Micro-XRF). The results indicate that the distribution of zinc (Zn) is notably correlated with the bones of the skeletons and preferentially enriched in certain areas, unlike other bone-enriched elements such as calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and strontium (Sr). Based on the distribution of Zn and its chemical properties, Zn is interpreted as a potential indicator of active ossification in K. hui. A comparative analysis of juvenile and subadult specimens reveals distinct patterns of Zn enrichment, reflecting differential bone development across ontogenetic stages. Notably, the Zn distribution in the subadult specimen of K. hui suggests the ossification of the tarsals gradually progresses from the centre to the periphery of each tarsal bone, which is consistent with typical endochondral ossification observed in extant reptiles. Furthermore, by integrating morphological features with the Zn distribution patterns, we infer that pachyostosis in K. hui develops progressively across all stages of growth and development. creator: Yi-nuo Wang creator: Da-yong Jiang creator: Ryosuke Motani creator: Ming-tao Yao creator: Cheng Ji creator: Zuo-yu Sun creator: Min Zhou uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19475 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Wang et al. title: Novel glauconite compounds improve soil properties and sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) yields in saline soils link: https://peerj.com/articles/19452 last-modified: 2025-06-18 description: Sugar beet is essential for sugar production, supporting food industries and renewable energy resources. A two-season field experiment (2021/2022 and 2022/2023) evaluated the effects of different potassium (K) sources, including traditional potassium sulfate (K), glauconite powder (G), and foliar glauconite extracts (20- and 40-mL L−1) extracted with sulfuric acid (GS), humic acid (GH), or hot water (GW), on soil properties, sugar beet yield, and sugar quality in saline soils. The results showed that GH and G treatments significantly improved soil properties by reducing electrical conductivity (EC), exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), and bulk density (BD), while increasing organic matter (OM) and infiltration rate (IR). The application of glauconite extracted by humic acid in 40 mL (GH2) treatment improved soil nutrient availability, notably increasing nitrogen (by 73.4%), potassium (by 137.2%), cupper (by 219.7%), and manganese (by 316.7%) compared to control, while GS2 enhanced ferrous (by 213.7%) and zinc (by 363.7%). GH2 application led to remarkable improvements in sugar beet yield, with average increases in root yield (94.84%), shoot yield (100.45%), total sugar yield (137.22%), and sucrose (20.5%) compared to the control, whereas GW treatments showed the least improvements. Despite GW recording the lowest sugar impurities, GH2 recorded the lowest alkalinity level. Advanced analytical techniques such as heatmaps, self-organizing maps (SOM), and while non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis revealed strong positive correlations between soil properties, sugar beet responses and sugar quality attributes. These findings underscore the potential incorporation of new innovative cost-effective alternative foliar amendment derived from glauconite rock-waste extraction with humic acid highlighting a sustainable agricultural strategy for managing soil health and crop productivity contributing to food security and environmental sustainability. creator: Mahmoud El-Sharkawy creator: Modhi O. Alotaibi creator: Esawy Mahmoud creator: Kholoud A. El-Naqma creator: Ramadan E. Kanany creator: Medhat G. Zoghdan creator: Mahmoud M. Shabana uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19452 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 El-Sharkawy et al. title: Structure-based identification of potent fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) inhibitors as potential therapeutics for hepatocellular carcinoma link: https://peerj.com/articles/19183 last-modified: 2025-06-18 description: Fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4), a member of the fibroblast growth factor receptor family, plays a crucial role in cell growth, differentiation, and tissue repair. Increased FGFR4 expression has been detected in various cancers, including lung, liver, kidney and pancreatic cancer, making it a potential drug target. In this study, we conducted a structure-based virtual screening campaign to identify potential FGFR4 inhibitors. The retained compounds were further filtered based on pan assay interference compounds (PAINS) and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADME/T) properties, leading to the identification of two promising candidates: MFCD00832235 and MFCD00204244. Quantum mechanical (QM) calculations revealed a large Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital (HOMO) and the Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (LUMO) (HUMO-LUMO) gaps for both compounds, indicating high dynamic stability and low chemical reactivity. Moreover, the stability of MFCD00832235 and MFCD00204244 at the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding site of FGFR4 was confirmed through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) approach predicted favorable binding free energy values for both compounds with the target protein. In vitro assay revealed that MFCD00832235 and MFCD00204244 inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells with IC50 values of 47.42 ± 12.93 µM and 77.83 ± 19.17 µM, respectively. Overall, this study suggested that MFCD00832235 and MFCD00204244 were potential FGFR4 inhibitors and may serve as start points for developing novel modulators of FGFR4 for cancer treatment, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma. creator: Lin Fan creator: Hui Xie creator: Weiyu Wang creator: Guizhu Peng creator: Zhen Fu creator: Qifa Ye uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19183 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Fan et al. title: Comparative analysis of lingual bracket transfer accuracy using fully versus partially enclosed 3D-printed indirect bonding trays: an in vivo study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19612 last-modified: 2025-06-17 description: BackgroundLingual orthodontic treatment requires precise bracket positioning to ensure optimal outcomes. This study aimed to compare the transfer accuracy of fully enclosed (FE) and partially enclosed (PE) three-dimensionally (3D) printed indirect bonding trays for lingual brackets, focusing on linear and angular errors, and to evaluate their clinical applicability.Materials and MethodsA total of 20 patients with 498 brackets bonded on both arches were included in this in vivo study. Two tray designs—FE and PE—were fabricated using a standardized digital workflow and 3D-printed with rigid resin. Bracket transfer accuracy was assessed by superimposing post-bonding scans with planned virtual models. Linear (mesiodistal, buccolingual, occlusogingival) and angular (rotation, angulation, torque) errors were measured. Statistical analyses included t-tests to compare transfer accuracy between the two tray designs.ResultsBoth tray designs achieved clinically acceptable linear accuracy, with errors below 0.5 mm across all dimensions. Angular errors for rotation and angulation were also within clinically acceptable limits of 2°, but torque transfer remains a challenge for both tray designs. The PE design showed significantly lower buccolingual and occlusogingival errors for premolars and the total sample, while the FE design demonstrated significantly lower torque errors for molars. However, the FE design required longer bonding times (84.2 ± 14.5 min) compared to the PE design (70.7 ± 12.8 min, p = 0.041), without offering a significant overall accuracy advantage.ConclusionThe PE tray design is the preferred option over the FE design for its simplicity and accuracy. Torque errors in the PE design can be mitigated with supplementary stabilization materials. creator: Viet Anh Nguyen uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19612 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Nguyen title: Development of EST-SSR markers based on transcriptome for genetic analysis in Radix Ardisia link: https://peerj.com/articles/19560 last-modified: 2025-06-17 description: Radix Ardisia is a commonly used medicine for the Miao nationality distributed over Guizhou and used to treat laryngeal diseases. The medicinal materials of the Radix Ardisia come from various sources, including Bailiangjin (Ardisia crispa (Thunb.) A. DC.), Zhushagen (Ardisia crenata Sims), Hongliangsan (Ardisia crenata Sims var. bicolor (Walker) C. Y. Wu et C. Chen), Xibingbailiangjin (Ardisia crispa (Thunb.) A. DC. var. dielsii (Levl.) Walker) and Dayebailiangjin (Ardisia crispa (Thunb.) A. DC. var. amplifolia Walker). With the continuous improvement of the medicinal value of the Miao medicine and the increasing scarcity of wild resources, it is of great practical significance to solve the problems of effective identification and genetic structure analysis of medicinal materials and adulterants, for the protection of its germplasm resources and the protection of clinical drug safety. The development of expressed sequence tag-simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) based on transcriptome strategy is considered to be a very effective means. In this study, 51,237 sequences of A. crenata were retrieved, with a total length of 71.4 MB. A total of 32,827 SSR loci were detected, averaging one SSR locus per 2.1 KB. The distribution of primers was detected, and 28,322 SSR loci were unigene SSR. 32,827 pairs of EST-SSR molecular markers were developed for the whole genome, with an average of 0.64 pairs of SSR primers for each unigene, and the sequence coverage was high. The statistical analysis showed that six types of SSR nucleotides could be detected, but the number and frequency of EST-SSR in different primitive types were significantly different. Mononucleotide and dinucleotide were the main repeat types, accounting for 90.51% of the total SSR of A. crenata. Sixty pairs of primers were randomly selected and applied to genetic research. Among them, 51 pairs could amplify 200 polymorphic bands. Genetic analysis was carried out on 46 mixed species of Radix Ardisia. The results showed that the original plants of Radix Ardisia showed high genetic diversity and could be divided into two populations. The results of systematic clustering showed that the EST-SSR used could well distinguish Radix Ardisia and its easily mixed species; it can be applied to the identification of Radix Ardisia, as well as the molecular identification between the original Bailiangjin, Zhushagen and Hongliangsan. This study can provide a reference for the genetic analysis of the Radix Ardisia. creator: Deqiang Ren creator: Wenwen Wu creator: Qinqin Wen creator: Yujiao Li uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19560 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Ren et al. title: Prognostic implication of dynamic platelet count in lung cancer patients with thrombocytosis: a retrospective analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19551 last-modified: 2025-06-17 description: BackgroundThrombocytosis is associated with poor prognosis in lung cancer patients. However, no studies have further assessed the effect of platelet-related parameters on the prognosis among lung cancer patients with thrombocytosis.MethodsBetween 2020 and 2021, lung cancer patients with a platelet count ≥ 300 *109/L or normal count were retrospectively reviewed. Potential prognostic factors were identified using univariate and multivariate accelerate failure time (AFT) model. Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were used to compare survival outcome.ResultsAmong patients with thrombocytosis (N = 148), time point of platelet elevation, platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) did not significantly impact first-line progression-free survival (PFS). Compared to patients whose platelet count normalized after treatment, patients with sustained platelet elevation exhibited a worst PFS (β =  − 1.291, p < 0.001), and although patients with fluctuant platelet elevation had worse PFS (β =  − 0.358, p = 0.054), the difference was not statistically significant. Additionally, mean platelet volume (MPV) (β = 0.319, p = 0.008) and D-dimer (β =  − 0.046, p = 0.025) were also factors affecting first-line PFS.ConclusionsAmong platelet-related parameters, besides MPV and D-dimer, the dynamic pattern of platelet count serves as a prognostic marker in lung cancer patients with thrombocytosis. creator: Xiaoying Wang creator: Xiaolin Pu creator: Xinyu Wu creator: Yanshuang Wei creator: Feifei Wei creator: Fangfang Wu creator: Hua Jiang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19551 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Wang et al. title: Risk factors analysis and nomogram development for myelosuppression in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy: a dual-centre retrospective cohort study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19539 last-modified: 2025-06-17 description: ObjectiveThe primary objective of this research was to examine the characteristics of myelosuppression following first-line chemotherapy in patients suffering from diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Furthermore, the study aimed to identify and analyze the risk factors impacting myelosuppression after chemotherapy and to construct a predictive model for evaluating the risk of myelosuppression.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study was conducted across two medical centers. The study included 243 patients with DLBCL treated at the Anning First People’s Hospital Affiliated with Kunming University of Science and Technology from January 2022 to December 2023 as the development cohort, and 107 patients treated at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University from January 2024 to May 2024 as the validation cohort. The study investigated the incidence of myelosuppression in all patients, identified independent factors influencing this condition through logistic regression analysis, and constructed and validated a nomogram. Finally, the model’s performance was evaluated using both internal and external validation cohorts.ResultsThe research rigorously incorporated a cohort of 243 DLBCL patients, with myelosuppression observed in 93 individuals (38.27%). Multifactorial analysis revealed that the chemotherapy cycle, age, Ann Arbor stage, surgical history, and neutrophil levels were independently correlated with myelosuppression following initial chemotherapy in DLBCL patients. A nomogram was developed based on the multifactorial analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed myelosuppression in the nomogram of both the development set (area under the curve (AUC = 0.834, 95% CI [0.785–0.884]) and the validation set (AUC = 0.861, 95% CI [0.791–0.931])), indicating clear differentiation. Further calibration curve analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) revealed strong calibration and clinical utility of the column-line graph model.ConclusionPatients with DLBCL are at an increased risk and frequency of myelosuppression following first-line chemotherapy. The development of a highly accurate prediction model for myelosuppression in this patient population facilitates individualized treatment strategies. Future studies should focus on expanding the sample size and developing and validating the model in additional types of cancer. creator: Xuexing Wang creator: Rong Zhang creator: Haoling Xie creator: Jinsong Xu creator: Jie Chu creator: Chunmei Wei creator: Quanfang Chen uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19539 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Wang et al. title: Does pruning affect the structural and ecological productivity of Juniper woodlands in the eastern Hindu Kush? link: https://peerj.com/articles/19184 last-modified: 2025-06-17 description: Juniperus species play a crucial role in the ecological dynamics of the eastern Hindu Kush region in Pakistan, growing either as mono-specific stands or co-occurring in species-poor communities on mountainous scree slopes, as well as near agricultural and residential areas. Despite their limited population, these trees offer a diverse range of ecosystem services, emphasizing the intricate interdependence between human and natural ecosystems. Given their ecological and commercial importance, local people employ silvicultural practices, such as pruning, to ensure sustainable management. The present study, therefore, aimed to assess conventional pruning practices in the region to understand their impacts on stand structure and ecological productivity. The findings indicated that pruning at an intensity of 30–40% was particularly effective, significantly enhancing dendrometric and reproductive traits, such as height, growth rates, and the production of viable seeds (ANOVA, p < 0.05). Additionally, both diameter at breast height (DBH) and diameter at root collar (DRC) showed positive trends, although the effects were not statistically significant (ANOVA, p > 0.05). Conversely, pruning intensities exceeding 60% exhibited adverse effects on the tree metrics. Our results also highlight the importance of pruning intensities in regulating understory vegetation, soil nutrient dynamics, and the carbon storage capacity of junipers. Notably, moderate pruning demonstrates positive impacts on living carbon biomass (LCB) and on soil organic carbon (SOC) density. In conclusion, adopting moderate-intensity pruning techniques with standard scientific measures could be an effective strategy, not only for improving the structural parameters and carbon budgets amid changing climate conditions but also for ensuring long-term economic advantages in the region. creator: Nasir Ud Din creator: Nasrullah Khan creator: Rafi Ullah creator: Mohammad K. Okla creator: Mostafa A. Abdel-Maksoud creator: Ibrahim A. Saleh creator: Hashem A. Abu-Harirah creator: Tareq Nayef AlRamadneh uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19184 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Din et al. title: Effectiveness of treatment modalities for childhood esotropia: a systematic review link: https://peerj.com/articles/19584 last-modified: 2025-06-16 description: BackgroundEsotropia has several types that commonly manifest in early childhood, with numerous treatment options described in the literature. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesize recent research findings on the management of childhood esotropia (ET) to clarify the relative success rates and specific indications for each treatment option, providing guidance for eye care professionals in selecting the most effective interventions.MethodologyA comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest, Scopus, Google Scholar, EBSCO, and Medline, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The search was restricted to articles published between 1990 and 2023 that examined various treatment modalities for different types of childhood esotropia (ET). In this study, success was defined as a post-treatment deviation of less than 10 prism dioptres (PD). The study protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under registration number CRD42024589042.ResultsThe final systematic review included 34 studies from 14 countries, encompassing 3,877 children with a mean age of 4.72 ± 2.08 years. The reviewed studies indicated that optical correction had the highest effectiveness rate at 79.31% after an average follow-up of 5.57 years. Extraocular muscle surgery demonstrated an effectiveness rate of 71.4% with a follow-up period of 2.89 years, while botulinum toxin (BT) injections showed a lower effectiveness rate of 61.24% after a follow-up of 3.15 years.ConclusionsThe review concluded that substantial evidence supports full cycloplegic hyperopic correction as the most effective first-line treatment for childhood accommodative esotropia (AET). However, surgery may be required for some children with AET if their deviation remains over 15 PD after full cycloplegic hyperopic correction. Prismatic correction was highly successful in managing residual deviation in partial AET. Bilateral BT injections proved effective as a first-line treatment for acute-onset ET and infantile ET without a vertical component. Timely surgical intervention enhances sensory outcomes in infantile ET; however, no surgical technique has demonstrated a distinct advantage. creator: Saif Hassan Alrasheed creator: Naveen Kumar Challa creator: Saeed Aljohani creator: Nawaf M. Almutairi creator: Mohammed M. Alnawmasi uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19584 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Alrasheed et al. title: Comparative efficacy of gas therapy for diabetic foot ulcers using network meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19571 last-modified: 2025-06-16 description: ObjectiveDiabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) pose significant clinical challenges, with gas therapy emerging as a promising intervention. However, the comparative efficacy of various gas therapy modalities remains unclear. This study evaluates the effectiveness of different gas therapies, particularly hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), in improving DFU outcomes.MethodsWe searched three major databases, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to March 3, 2024, assessing the efficacy of different gas therapies in managing DFUs. Primary outcomes included ulcer healing and area reduction rates, while secondary outcomes encompassed healing time, amputation rate, and adverse events. A network meta-analysis was performed using R, with surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) values calculated to rank therapies.ResultsA total of 34 RCTs involving 2,268 DFUs were included in this analysis. HBOT ranked highest for the healing rate (SUCRA = 0.8 14) and area reduction rate (SUCRA = 0.730) but also had a higher amputation rate (SUCRA = 0.621). Except for carbon dioxide therapy, HBOT demonstrated significantly greater healing rates than standard of care (SOC) (mean difference (MD) = −2.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) [−4.85 to −1.34]) and topical oxygen therapy (MD = −2.03, 95% CI [−4.50 to −0.32]), while pairwise comparisons among other gaseous therapies were non-significant (P > 0.05). For wound area reduction, HBOT was superior to SOC (MD = 0.39, 95% CI [0.11–0.67]), whereas differences among other gaseous therapies remained non-significant (P > 0.05). There was substantial heterogeneity in the area reduction rate in net work analysis (I2 = 87%). Subgroup analyses revealed greater area reduction in DFUs treated with HBOT when the treatment duration exceeded six weeks.ConclusionsHBOT improves ulcer healing and area reduction rates in DFU patients; however, its association with higher amputation rates warrants cautious use, considering resource availability. Given the limited number and quality of included studies, further high-quality research is needed to validate these findings. creator: Jing Yang creator: Peng Ning creator: Jiali Huang creator: Hong Ouyang creator: Jiaxing Zhang creator: Fan Yang creator: Hongyi Cao creator: Fan Zhang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19571 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Yang et al. title: Adaptability and agronomic performance evaluation of mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) varieties under non-inoculated and inoculated rhizobium bacteria conditions link: https://peerj.com/articles/19558 last-modified: 2025-06-16 description: BackgroundBecause of its high selling price and low cost of production, farmers in the Central Gondar Zone showed great interest in mungbean production. However, the best-adapted varieties and the effectiveness of commercial Rhizobium inoculants were not determined. Hence, a study was conducted for two consecutive years to evaluate the adaptability and agronomic performances of mungbean varieties under non-inoculated and inoculated conditions.MethodsA factorial combination of five mungbean varieties (Shewarobit, NVL-1, Rasa, Boreda, and Arkebe) and two inoculation levels were arranged in randomised complete block design with three replications. Data concerning flowering and maturity, nodulation, plant height, number of main branches and pods, hundred seed weight, biological and seed yields, and harvest index were collected and analyzed using R software.ResultsThe study provided valuable insights into how variety and inoculation affect mungbean growth and yield. Inoculated seeds of Rasa, Boreda, and Arkebe took longer to flower (42.00, 40.17, and 32.33 days) and mature (86.33, 85.67, and 74.67 days), but in return, they produced more nodules (5.37, 4.83, and 2.77), branches (6.97, 6.75, and 6.45), and pods (11.83, 10.73, and 11.27) than their non-inoculated counterparts. However, no significant differences were seen for Shewarobit and NVL-1 varieties. The 2021 experiment outperformed 2022, showing higher nodules, pods, harvest index, and both biological and seed yields. Variety also played a significant role, influencing stand count, plant height, hundred seed weight, and harvest index. In 2021, the interaction of variety and inoculation affected biological and seed yields, while in 2022, only variety did. Rhizobium inoculation showed inconsistent effects on mungbean yield, suggesting the need for further investigation. The top performers in seed yield were Shewarobit (660.90–1,214.74 kg ha−1) and NVL-1 (532.35–1,097.78 kg ha−1), followed closely by Rasa (521.99–1,095.00 kg ha−1) and Boreda (546.70–1,106.63 kg ha−1), with Arkebe (367.85–606.88 kg ha−1) yielding the lowest.ConclusionMungbean farmers in the Central Gondar Zone should prioritize Shewarobit and NVL-1 for the highest seed yields, with Rasa and Boreda as strong alternatives. creator: Shiferaw Mebrat Delie creator: Teferi Alem Adamu creator: Abebaw Mulugeta Andualem uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19558 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Delie et al. title: Antifungal effects of andrographolide and its combination with amphotericin B against selected fungal pathogens link: https://peerj.com/articles/19544 last-modified: 2025-06-16 description: Despite advancements in antifungal therapies, the development of resistance to conventional drugs has compromised treatment outcomes, creating an urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches. Andrographolide, a key bioactive compound from Andrographis paniculata, has demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, its antifungal potential, particularly against clinically relevant fungi, remains underexplored. Amphotericin B, a classic antifungal drug, is widely used for severe fungal infections, but limited by its toxicity at higher doses. Combination therapy has emerged as a promising approach to improve treatment outcomes, reduce toxicity, and limit the emergence of resistance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antifungal efficacy of andrographolide, and in combination with amphotericin B against Candida albicans, Microsporum gypseum, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus niger, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Antifungal activity was evaluated using broth microdilution susceptibility testing, while combination effects were analyzed using a checkerboard technique, utilizing the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index to assess interaction outcomes. The concentration at which inhibition is minimal (MIC) against the examined isolates ranged between 400 and 800 µg/mL. A. fumigatus, A. niger, and T. mentagrophytes showed higher susceptibility with lower MICs (400 µg/mL), while A. terreus, M. gypseum, and C. albicans required higher concentrations (800 µg/mL) for inhibition. The minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values varied, with A. fumigatus and A. niger having MFCs of 800 µg/mL, while the remaining species had MFCs ≥ 1,600 µg/mL. The MFC/MIC ratios indicated fungicidal activity for most isolates, except for M. gypseum and C. albicans. Combination of andrographolide and amphotericin B exhibited antifungal efficacy against A. fumigatus, A. niger, T. mentagrophytes, and C. albicans with FICI values varying from 0.375 to 0.5 (FICI ≤ 0.5) demonstrating a synergistic effect, while it exhibited an additive impact with FICI values of 0.75 (0.5 > FICI ≤ 1.0) against A. terreus and M. gypseum. Andrographolide demonstrated notable antifungal activity, and its combination with amphotericin B enhanced efficacy against certain pathogens. These results highlight andrographolide’s potential as complementary antifungal substance in combination therapies to overcome resistance and reduce toxicity associated with traditional antifungal drugs. However, the variability in response among different fungal species warrants further research to optimize the combination’s clinical application and safety. creator: Gayus Sale Dafur creator: Tuan Noorkorina Tuan Kub creator: Kirnpal Kaur Banga Singh creator: Azian Harun creator: Fatmawati Lambuk creator: Rohimah Mohamud creator: Ramlah Kadir creator: Norzila Ismail creator: Norhayati Yusop uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19544 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Dafur et al. title: The impacts of vitamin D supplementation on serum levels of thyroid autoantibodies in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease: a meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19541 last-modified: 2025-06-16 description: BackgroundAlthough vitamin D (VitD) deficiency had been found with close relationship with autoimmune thyroid disorders (AITD), the findings about the impacts of VitD supplementation on the production of anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPOAb) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) remained inconsistent. Thus, a systemic meta-analysis was conducted to figure out the exact effects of VitD intervention on the production of TPOAb and TgAb in AITD patients.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and The Cochrane Library databases for all clinical studies up to May 2023, which evaluated the changes in serum TPOAb and TgAb titers of AITD patients after VitD intervention. In addition, three subgroup analyses were carried out based on the duration of vitamin D supplementation, the initial nutritional status of participants, and the frequency of vitamin D administration.ResultsA total of 10 cohorts from 10 clinical trials with 577 patients with AITD were included. The serum titers of TPOAb and TgAb were significantly decreased after VitD supplementation as compared with their pre-treatment levels, respectively. However, a significant post-treatment reduction of serum TPOAb level was found only in the AITD patients with initial VitD insufficiency/deficiency, while an obvious decrease of serum TgAb was shown if only those studies without consideration of the pre-treatment VitD status were included. Serum TPOAb and TgAb titers were significantly decreased in the patients receiving VitD supplementation for at least 3 months, but not in the ones for less than 3 months. Serum titers of TPOAb and TgAb were both pronouncedly reduced in the patients receiving daily administration of VitD rather than weekly regimen. This study provides new evidence for the potential role of vitamin D supplementation in the treatment of AITD.ConclusionsAITD patients may benefit with the reduction of TPOAb and TgAb production after a VitD supplementation (2800–60000 IU/week) for at least 3 months, especially with a decrease of serum TPOAb level when initially VitD insufficient/deficient, which mechanisms await further investigation.Systematic Review RegistrationPROSPERO, identifier CRD42023424029. creator: Dongdong Luo creator: Bojuan Li creator: Zhongyan Shan creator: Weiping Teng creator: Qigui Liu creator: Jing Li uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19541 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: © 2025 Luo et al. title: White matter hyperintensities and the risk of vascular dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19460 last-modified: 2025-06-16 description: BackgroundWhite matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are hyperintense lesions observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and are unique imaging indicators of cerebral small vessel diseases. WMH-related white matter alterations have been correlated with cognitive impairment and cerebrovascular pathology. Some studies suggest that vascular hemodynamic changes contribute to WMH development, ultimately leading to vascular dementia (VaD). However, the association between WMH burden and VaD remains inconclusive. This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the relationship between WMH volume and VaD severity and to clarify the role of WMHs in VaD pathogenesis.MethodsA systematic literature search was performed using the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases. A total of 15 studies with 4,061 patients were selected. The meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan software (version 5.4) and Stata software (version 14.0). All the patients underwent brain MRI to assess WMH volumes or levels, and compared the differences in WMH levels among the VaD group, the non-cognitively impaired (NCI) group, the cognitively impaired no dementia (CIND) group, and the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) group.ResultsThe meta-analysis showed that all patients in the VaD group had high white matter signals on brain MRI. They also had higher WMH volumes compared to patients in the NCI, CIND, and AD groups. WMH correlated with cerebrovascular pathology, with irregular and periventricular WMHs being more specific to VaD. Sensitivity analyses were performed to identify sources of heterogeneity, while funnel plot and Egger’s test suggested potential publication bias.ConclusionsPatients with VaD exhibit significantly greater WMH than those with AD, NCI, and CIND, reinforcing the role of cerebrovascular pathology in VaD. These findings emphasize the need for standardized imaging assessments, multi-modal biomarkers, and the development of predictive models to enhance early diagnosis, personalized risk assessment, and targeted therapeutic strategies for VaD. creator: Wei Luo creator: Zhiqiang Dai creator: Wenjing Wu creator: Haitao Li creator: Yang Zhang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19460 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Luo et al. title: Manure in combination with optimal topdressing with nitrogen fertiliser improved growth, grain yields and the efficiencies of water and nitrogen use in winter wheat in the Xinjiang Oasis drylands link: https://peerj.com/articles/19543 last-modified: 2025-06-13 description: BackgroundCurrently, low-cost food production using little or no fertiliser is common in oasis dry farming in Xinjiang. This approach results in excessively low crop yields and resource utilisation. Given the limited local precipitation, optimising fertiliser application to improve crop yields, water use efficiency (WUE), and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is key. However, the effects of manure and topdressing nitrogen (N) fertiliser on the yields, WUE, and NUE of dryland wheat in the Xinjiang Oasis region of China have not been studied sufficiently.MethodsTherefore, we conducted a 2-year field experiment that examined manure (0 and 30 t ha−1 yr−1, expressed with M0, M1, respectively) and topdressing urea (0, 150, and 300 kg ha–1, expressed with N0, N150, N300, respectively) to quantify the effects of different fertilisation strategies on wheat growth and development, crop N uptake (NUA), soil moisture, yields, WUE, and NUE.ResultsCompared with application of chemical N alone, combination with manure increased leaf area index (LAI) and aboveground biomass (ABG) values, and crop NUA. Soil water storage (SWS) increased with soil depth and was 27.5–55.2% higher in the upper soil layer than in the deeper layer. The high evapotranspiration (ETc) caused by adding manure reduced SWS by promoting crop growth, and increased grain yield, WUE, and NUE by 12.9%, 9.8%, and 29.7%, respectively. Compared to no topdressing N treatment, the N150 and N300 treatments significantly increased LAI values (39.8% and 32.8%), ABG (33.0% and 23.7%), NUA (30.4% and 39.4%), ETc (3.5% and 3.9%), grain yields (16.1% and 10.1%), and WUE (13.7% and 6.8%), while they reduced SWS (8.7% and 9.2%). The interaction effects of manure and nitrogen on LAI, NUA, ETc, and WUE values were significant. The greatest grain yields (2,561.3 and 3,161.2 kg ha−1), WUEs (10.8 and 9.5 kg ha−1 mm−1), and NUEs (32.6% and 43.9%) during the two growing seasons were obtained with the M1N150 treatment. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the M1N150 treatment had the highest comprehensive evaluation score.ConclusionsTherefore, we suggest that the combination of 30 t ha−1 yr−1 manure and 150 kg ha−1 topdressing N fertiliser is the optimum fertiliser strategy for improving productivity and efficient water and fertiliser management in dryland winter wheat in the Xinjiang Oasis, where precipitation is low. creator: Yanfei Fang creator: Jianghua Tang creator: Shanqing Zhang creator: Na Zhang creator: Xiaoying Luo creator: Dongping Hu creator: Wenxiu Xu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19543 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Fang et al. title: Adapting the facial action coding system for chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) to bonobos (Pan paniscus): the ChimpFACS extension for bonobos link: https://peerj.com/articles/19484 last-modified: 2025-06-13 description: The Facial Action Coding System (FACS) is a widely recognised coding scheme for analysing human facial behaviour, providing an objective method to quantify discrete movements associated with facial muscles, known as Action Units (AUs), and reducing subjective bias. FACS has been adapted for nine other taxa, including apes, macaques, and domestic animals, but not yet bonobos. To carry out cross species studies of facial behaviours within and beyond apes, it is essential to include bonobos. Hence, we aimed at adapting FACS for bonobos. We followed a similar methodology as in previous FACS adaptations: first, we examined the facial muscular plan of bonobos from previously published dissections. Given the similarity between bonobo and chimpanzee musculature, we tested if ChimpFACS for chimpanzees could be applied to bonobos. Second, we used ChimpFACS to analyse spontaneous facial behaviour in bonobos through videos recorded in various contexts. Third, we noted any differences in appearance changes between the AUs included in ChimpFACS and the AUs observed in bonobos. Our findings showed that bonobos exhibit all the facial movements observed in chimpanzees, and thus ChimpFACS can reliably be applied to bonobos. Bonobos presented a diverse repertoire of 28 facial movements (22 AUs, three Action Descriptors, and three Ear Action Descriptors). Although the range of facial movement is lower than in humans, bonobo’s potential for facial movement is comparable to that of chimpanzees, underscoring the significance of this behaviour modality during social interactions for both species. The ChimpFACS Extension for bonobos is an objective coding scheme for measuring facial movements in bonobos, designed to be used in conjunction with ChimpFACS. This coding scheme extension will allow us to better understand bonobos’ behaviour and communication, with practical applications for assessing their welfare, particularly in human care. It also provides a framework for comparing primate species, contributing to insights into the origin and evolution of facial emotion and communication. creator: Catia Correia-Caeiro creator: Paul Henrik Kuchenbuch creator: Linda S. Oña creator: Franziska Wegdell creator: Maël Leroux creator: André Schuele creator: Jared Taglialatela creator: Simon Townsend creator: Martin Surbeck creator: Bridget M. Waller creator: Katja Liebal uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19484 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Correia-Caeiro et al. title: Patellar tendon adaptations to resistance training in young women using combined oral contraceptives link: https://peerj.com/articles/19581 last-modified: 2025-06-12 description: BackgroundThe study aimed to examine the impact of combined oral contraceptive pill (OC) use on patellar tendon (PT) adaptation to resistance training in young women.MethodsFifteen users of OC (28 ± 3 years) (OC group) and 17 eumenorrheic non-users (32 ± 5 years) (NOC group) performed heavy resistance training of the knee extensors over a period equivalent to three menstrual or pill cycles. Maximal isometric strength of the knee extensor muscles, PT cross-sectional area (CSA), tensile stiffness, and shear wave velocity (SWV) were measured before and after the intervention using combined ultrasonography and dynamometry.ResultsThe training period increased maximal isometric strength in both groups (≈11%, P < 0.001) with no significant interaction with OC use (p = 0.965). Likewise, a small yet significant increase in proximal tendon CSA was observed (1.5 ± 1.6% for both groups, main training effect P < 0.001) without any significant interaction with OC use (p = 0.267). Tendon tensile stiffness also increased significantly (18.9 ± 26.3% in the OC group and 28.2 ± 35.1% in the NOC group, main effect: P < 0.001) but was not significantly affected by OC use (interaction effect: p = 0.428). Tendon SWV measurements yielded similar results, indicating a main effect of training (+12% on average, p = 0.024) but no significant interaction with OC use.ConclusionThese findings suggest that OC use does not affect the increase in PT CSA and mechanical properties following short-term resistance training in young untrained females. creator: Ingvild Vesterhus creator: Eirik R. Hesseberg creator: Ken Fjeldberg creator: Martin K. Engstad creator: Gøran Paulsen creator: Mette Hansen creator: Antoine Nordez creator: Lilian Lacourpaille creator: Olivier R. Seynnes uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19581 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Vesterhus et al. title: Establishing reference values for age-related fecal calprotectin in healthy children aged 0–4 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19572 last-modified: 2025-06-12 description: Background and AimsThe use of fecal calprotectin (FC) as a biomarker in children under 4 years of age is limited, as widely accepted reference values have not yet been established. Thus, the present meta-analysis was performed to establish convincing age-related FC reference values.MethodWe conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to establish age-specific reference intervals for FC in children aged 0–4 years by synthesizing data from multiple studies. An exhaustive search of three major databases was conducted from their inception through April 2024, and this was complemented by manual screening of reference lists to ensure the inclusion of all relevant studies. The eligibility criteria were restricted to English-language publications reporting quantitative FC levels in apparently healthy children under 4 years of age. A stringent study selection protocol was applied, with each article independently reviewed by at least two investigators to ensure accuracy in study inclusion, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment. For the statistical analysis, random-effects meta-analysis models were constructed using restricted maximum likelihood estimation to generate pooled mean FC levels and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) at the study level.ResultsA total of 23 studies (n = 2,883) were included in the qualitative synthesis. The pooled mean FC reference values (μg/g) by age group were as follows: <1 month: 257.70 (95% CI [189.70–325.70]), 1–6 months: 239.46 (95% CI [181.17–297.75]), 7–12 months: 115.72 (95% CI [89.69–141.75]), 13–24 months: 104.70 (95% CI [61.96–147.44]), 25–36 months: 75.18 (95% CI [43.94–106.42]), and 37–48 months: 33.89 (95% CI [24.43–43.35]). Assay methodology, particularly enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, demonstrated significant heterogeneity (p = 0.011) in manufacturer-specific analyses. Furthermore, geographical variation had a significant effect on baseline FC levels in neonates. In contrast, the type of feeding and mode of delivery did not show significant effects (p > 0.05).ConclusionWe established normal reference ranges for FC in healthy children aged 0–4 years. Assay methodology and geographic factors significantly influence baseline FC levels, underscoring the need for careful interpretation of FC levels in clinical settings. creator: Junxiang Zeng creator: Wenxian Yu creator: Xiupan Gao creator: Youyou Yu creator: Yunlan Zhou creator: Xiujun Pan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19572 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Zeng et al. title: Harnessing YouTube in advancing biodiversity conservation efforts and awareness across Africa link: https://peerj.com/articles/19545 last-modified: 2025-06-12 description: YouTube (YT), an online video content application, has revolutionized the dissemination of information in various fields, including medicine, entertainment, and conservation science. Its potential in disseminating biodiversity conservation information has not been well assessed, especially in Africa, a biodiversity hotspot. When such assessments are conducted, they are usually species-specific, activity-based, or localized, making broader generalizations difficult. We evaluated the viewership and interaction of the videos posted about Africa across different organism groups, countries (geopolitical units), geographical regions, ecoregions, and channels (content creators). We assessed 431 videos, which collectively garnered 32,630,126 views, 364,700 likes, and 48,839 comments across 274 channels, five regions, and 31 African countries. The mean daily views varied significantly across countries, regions organism groups, and channels. Notably, more views per day were from biodiversity-rich countries, such as Madagascar, and most videos were posted from South Africa. Government and academic institutions posted fewer videos than individually owned and international biodiversity-related non-governmental organization (NGO) channels. Also, most channels posting about African biodiversity are based in the United States of America. Increased attention to biodiversity through social media engagement will likely stimulate external funding, international collaborations, policymaking, and participatory programs, benefiting both the public and organizations such as NGOs and governments. We observed a great need for increased participation by African-based content creators, primarily by government institutions, to effectively adopt a strong social media strategy to communicate information about biodiversity conservation, especially to the growing online population. creator: Anthony Basooma creator: Herbert Nakiyende creator: Vianny Natugonza creator: Rose Basooma uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19545 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Basooma et al. title: CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cell therapy in neurological autoimmune diseases link: https://peerj.com/articles/19450 last-modified: 2025-06-12 description: CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in maintaining immune tolerance. They are essential for the initiation and progression of autoimmune diseases affecting the nervous system. Recently, the correlation between Tregs and neurological autoimmune diseases, as well as their therapeutic potential, has become a central focus of research. Currently, various methods for in vivo or in vitro generation and expansion of CD4+CD25+ Tregs are under investigation; however, their application in cellular therapy is anticipated to face additional challenges. This article primarily delves into the development and function of CD4+CD25+ Tregs, the role of Tregs in neurological autoimmune disease pathology, basic methods for enhancing therapies, and recent advancements and challenges in cellular therapy for neurological autoimmune diseases. creator: Guobin Yuan creator: Ying Liu creator: Hongquan Wang creator: Tingting Yang creator: Guangzhi Liu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19450 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Yuan et al. title: Exploring self-compassion in adults with disabilities: the roles of gender, disability history, and leisure-time physical activity link: https://peerj.com/articles/19554 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: BackgroundSelf-compassion plays a vital role in emotional well-being, especially for individuals with disabilities who often face unique psychological challenges. When people treat themselves with kindness instead of harsh self-criticism, they tend to cope better with difficulties and maintain a more positive outlook. However, self-compassion is not the same for everyone as it can be shaped by many factors like gender, disability history (congenital vs. acquired), and participation in leisure-time physical activity. Understanding these influences can help develop better mental health support strategies and more personalized rehabilitation programs.ObjectivesThis study explored self-compassion levels among adults with disabilities and examined how gender, disability history, and leisure-time physical activity influence self-compassion.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted with 162 adults with disabilities (85 men and 77 women; average age = 31.3 ± 10.69). Participants completed the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and reported how often they engaged in leisure-time physical activity each week.ResultsOn average, participants showed moderate self-compassion levels (M = 3.49, SD = 0.58). Among the six components of self-compassion, self-judgment (M = 3.69, SD = 0.90) and over-identification (M = 3.71, SD = 0.92) were the highest, suggesting a tendency toward self-criticism and emotional overwhelm. Self-kindness had the lowest score (M = 3.19, SD = 0.82), indicating that many participants struggled to be compassionate toward themselves. Our further analysis showed that leisure-time physical activity and disability history were significant predictors of self-compassion. People who regularly engaged in sports or exercise and those with congenital disabilities tended to have higher self-compassion levels. Gender, however, was not significantly related to self-compassion. The overall model was significant, F(3, 158) = 10.833, p < .001, R2 = 0.171, explaining 17.1% of the variance in self-compassion.ConclusionsMany adults with disabilities struggle with self-criticism and emotional distress, but engaging in regular leisure-time physical activity appears to support greater self-compassion. This suggests that making sports and recreation more accessible could help promote emotional resilience in this population. Additionally, the differences observed based on disability history highlight the need for personalized mental health support, as individuals born with a disability may experience self-compassion differently from those who acquired a disability later in life. Future research should further explore these patterns to help improve well-being and psychological support systems for adults with disabilities. creator: Kashef Zayed creator: Md Dilsad Ahmed creator: Mahfoodha Al Kitani creator: Ali Alyaaribi creator: Khalifa Al-Jadidi creator: Ezzeldin Ali creator: Amin Gaafar creator: Abdul Rahim Al Droushi creator: Maryam Alsarmi uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19554 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zayed et al. title: Green under siege: how the polyhexamethylene guanidine disinfectant attacks microalgae in aquatic ecosystems link: https://peerj.com/articles/19553 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: In aquatic ecosystems, microalgae experience the adverse effects of the widely used disinfectant component, polyhexamethylene guanidine (PHMG). Our research focused on the model alga, Chlorella vulgaris, examining how PHMG exposure influences its growth, photosynthesis, metabolic byproducts, and antioxidant defenses. We observed a range of effects from slight disturbances at low PHMG concentrations to significant growth inhibition at higher levels, suggesting a hormesis-like response. Specifically, PHMG exposure led to reduced chlorophyll content, impaired Photosystem II efficiency, and decreased photosynthetic activity. Interestingly, the algae responded to stress by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities and stress biomarkers. Structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that PHMG primarily disrupts the photosynthetic apparatus, which in turn affects metabolic and antioxidant responses, culminating in reduced algal biomass. Our results contribute to the understanding of the threats posed to aquatic life by the ubiquitous and ever-increasing pollution from chemical disinfectants, and highlight the urgency of mitigation measures. creator: Kai Zhang creator: Ziqin Wei creator: Yixuan Wang creator: Weikai Shui creator: Bingchan Jia creator: Zhuo Huang creator: Qian Feng uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19553 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Zhang et al. title: The value of nanocarbon contrast methylene blue based on dye-based tracer technology in sentinel lymph node biopsy for breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19546 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic value of nanocarbon suspensions and methylene blue injections in sentinel lymph node biopsies of patients with breast cancer based on the dye method.MethodsA systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library (Central) and Web of Science (SCI Expanded) databases was performed to determine the diagnostic value of carbon nanoparticles in Chinese databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP, Wanfang, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM)) for identifying methylene blue in sentinel lymph node biopsies of patients with breast cancer. The QUADAS2 quality evaluation tool of Review Manager 5.4 was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Meta-Disc 1.4 software was used to calculate the extracted valid data and perform a heterogeneity test. STATA 14.0 software was selected to conduct a sensitivity analysis, and Deek’s publication bias test was used for the included studies.ResultsIn 17 articles, the binding sensitivity of nanocarbons was 0.93 (0.90–0.95), the binding specificity was 0.98 (0.97–0.99), the binding sensitivity of methylene blue was 0.89 (0.85–0.92), and the binding specificity was 0.94 (0.92–0.95). The AUC value of the nanocarbon SROC was 0.9827 (SE = 0.0062), and the AUC value of methylene blue was 0.9495 (SE = 0.0139).ConclusionNanocarbon versus methylene blue is a more satisfactory dye tracer for sentinel lymph node biopsy in breast cancer patients and should be considered a first-line diagnostic agent. creator: Luhua Xia creator: Zuowei Zou creator: Le Chong creator: Xinhua Wang creator: Zhanfei Dong creator: Yanping Zhao uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19546 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Xia et al. title: Dysregulated lipid metabolism in late preterm low birth weight neonates: A case-control study on maternal lipid levels and early metabolic programming implications link: https://peerj.com/articles/19542 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: ObjectivesWhile low birth weight (LBW) is a recognized risk factor for adult metabolic syndrome, the unique lipid metabolic phenotype of late preterm low birth weight (LPTB-LBW) neonates—who experience dual exposures to shortened gestation and intrauterine growth restriction—remains uncharacterized. This study specifically examines whether the convergence of prematurity and growth restriction synergistically disrupts lipid metabolic programming.MethodsUsing ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), we compared lipidomic profiles of 88 plasma samples: 45 LPTB-LBW (340/7-366/7 weeks, <2,500 g) and 43 later preterm birth-normal birth weight (LPTB-NBW, 340/7-366/7 weeks, 2,500–4,000 g) controls. Multivariate orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis and univariate modeling identified discriminant lipids. Maternal-neonatal lipid continuity was assessed through Spearman’s correlation analysis.ResultA total of 1,173 lipids were identified, categorized into five major lipid classes, with 349 significantly different lipids detected (324 upregulated and 25 downregulated) in the LPTB-LBW group. All glycerolipids were upregulated, accounting for 50% (162/324) of the upregulated lipids. Long-chain polyunsaturated triglycerides (TG) showed extreme elevations, such as TG (18:2_18:3_18:4) and TG (18:2_20:4_20:5). Monoglycerides, including MG (18:2) and MG (18:1), were also significantly elevated. Among glycerophospholipids (GP), 76 species were upregulated, with notable increases in phosphatidylethanolamines such as PE (O-18:0_22:3) and PE (18:2_22:1), while PG (20:4_22:6) was significantly reduced. All differentially expressed ceramides, including Cer (d26:3/33:1(2OH)), Cer (d29:2/30:2(2OH)), and Cer (d28:3/31:1(2OH)), were upregulated, whereas sphingosines were downregulated. Cholesterol esters were decreased, while bile acids, free fatty acids and acylcarnitines were elevated. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis highlighted significant perturbations in cholesterol, glycerolipid, and sphingolipid metabolism. Maternal high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) levels during early pregnancy showed exclusive negative correlations with neonatal lipids, particularly triacylglycerol TG (16:0_18:2_18:2) (r =  − 0.33, p = 0.002), diacylglycerols, and ceramides, whereas no associations were observed for maternal low density lipoprotein (LDLC), TC, or TG.ConclusionsLPTB-LBW neonates exhibit a unique lipidomic phenotype marked by hyperaccumulation of glycerolipids (e.g., long-chain polyunsaturated TGs), elevated ceramides, and altered phospholipid species (increased PE, decreased PG). Maternal HDLC levels negatively correlated with specific neonatal lipids. These findings highlight early-life lipid alterations in LPTB-LBW infants and the need for further investigation into their clinical implications. creator: Jing Liu creator: Lijuan Tang creator: Qi Sun creator: Di Lv creator: Yuanmei Chen creator: Fang Ye creator: Die Liu creator: Qin Hui creator: Haixiao Liang creator: Chao Wang creator: Qi Zhang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19542 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: ©2025 Liu et al. title: Effects of the Gully Land Consolidation Project on soil properties and carbon stocks of farmland in the Chinese Loess Plateau link: https://peerj.com/articles/19540 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: A megaproject named Gully Land Consolidation (GLC) was implemented in the Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP) to address food shortages. However, its effects on soil properties and carbon stocks remain unclear. This study evaluates the effects of the GLC project on soil properties and carbon stocks by analyzing the properties of 14 farmland soil profiles (0–500 cm depth) in the Gutun watershed (GT-T), a typical area treated by the GLC project. Soil particle size, water content (SWC), bulk density (BD), contents of soil organic carbon (SOC), inorganic carbon (SIC), and total carbon (TC) were measured, and carbon stocks were calculated. Data from the GT-T watershed were compared to untreated areas in the CLP (CLP-U) and outside the CLP (Other-U). The results showed that the silt proportion (76.0%), SWC (17.7 ± 5.2%), and BD (1.5 ± 0.2 g cm−3) in the 0–500 cm depth in the GT-T watershed was 1.1 to 2.1 times, 1.6 to 2.8 times, and 1.0 to 1.3 times higher than in untreated areas, respectively. However, the SOC stock (2.5 kg m−2) at 0–100 cm depth was 0.7 to 10.2 kg m−2 lower than in the untreated areas. These results indicate that although the GLC project can improve soil structure and water retention capacity, it may also lead to the loss of surface SOC, thereby reducing soil fertility. The protection and replenishment of surface SOC should be emphasized during the cultivation and management of the newly reclaimed farmland in GLC-treated areas. This study highlights the effects of the GLC project on soil properties and carbon stocks and provides valuable insights for optimizing land reclamation management in the CLP. creator: Zeqiong Qiu creator: Tingjun Gong creator: Xiaocao Chen creator: Xia Yu creator: Qixin Wu creator: Yanling An creator: Jie Zeng uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19540 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Qiu et al. title: Impact of concurrent aerobic and resistance training on body composition, lipid metabolism and physical function in patients with type 2 diabetes and overweight/obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19537 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: BackgroundThe potential advantages of concurrent aerobic and resistance training (CART) for enhancing cardiometabolic health-related outcomes appear to surpass the outcomes of engaging in aerobic or resistance training alone. The present study aimed to synthesize the available scientific evidence on the effects of CART on body composition, lipid metabolism, and physical function in patients with type 2 diabetes and overweight/obesity.MethodsPubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to August 7, 2024. The review focused on randomized controlled trials and controlled clinical trials of CART. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess eligible studies, and the GRADE method to evaluate the reliability of evidence. A random-effects model was used and data were analyzed using standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsA total of 22,878 studies were retrieved; only 20 studies were included, and data were extracted from 1,289 participants (57.0 ± 7.0 years; 31.1 ± 4.6 kg/m2) who met the eligibility criteria. CART group significantly reduced body fat percentage (SMD −0.42, 95% CI [−0.70 to −0.15]), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (SMD −0.32, 95% CI [−0.62 to −0.02]), triglycerides (SMD −0.48, 95% CI [−0.71 to −0.24]), total cholesterol (SMD −0.35, 95% CI [−0.58 to −0.12]), and fasting blood glucose levels compared to standard treatment (non-exercising controls). CART significantly increased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (SMD 0.44, 95% CI [0.05–0.82]) and improved physical function (cardiorespiratory fitness: SMD 78.78, 95% CI [46.30–111.25]; muscular fitness: SMD 5.19, 95% CI [1.80–8.59]) compared to standard treatment. There were no significant differences in body mass, waist-to-hip ratio, fat mass, and lean body mass between CART and standard treatment. An uncertain risk of bias and poor quality of evidence were observed in the eligible studies.ConclusionsThe present results indicate clear evidence that CART has a beneficial role in the improvement of several cardiometabolic health-related parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes and concomitant overweight/obesity. More trials with robust methodological design are needed to investigate the dose-response effects, training parameters formation, and potential mechanisms. creator: Sameer Badri AL-Mhanna creator: Abdullah F. Alghannam creator: Nouf H. Alkhamees creator: Bodor Bin Sheeha creator: Norsuhana Omar creator: Hani Albalawi creator: Mehmet Gülü creator: Umut Canli creator: Hafeez Abiola Afolabi creator: Bishir Daku Abubakar creator: Georgian Badicu creator: Rozaziana Ahmad creator: Gerasimos V. Grivas creator: Alexios Batrakoulis uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19537 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 AL-Mhanna et al. title: Profiling microplastic fibers in the intertidal sentinel mussel Brachidontes rodriguezii from the coast of Buenos Aires, Argentina link: https://peerj.com/articles/19518 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: Mussels can accumulate microplastics (MPs) present in seawater and are one of the species most affected by MP pollution. This study is the first to evaluate the abundance of MPs in the small mussel Brachidontes rodriguezii at four stations (S1, S2, S3, and S4) with different levels of human activities along the intertidal area of the most popular resort city of Argentina (Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires). Microplastics, primarily microfibers, were detected in 97.5% of the analyzed mussels by visual identification. The abundance of MPs varied significantly among the stations, with the highest levels observed in mussels from S4, corresponding to the low-urbanized area. This finding seems to suggest that factors other than urban pollution, such as agricultural activities and nearby streams, may contribute to MP contamination. The study also found a relation between MPs abundance and the mussels’ condition index, suggesting that high levels of MPs may negatively impact the health of these organisms. Identification suggested that all found microfibers were plastic, with approximately 10% of the analyzed microfibers revealing the presence of polymers such as polyester, polychloroprene, polyacrylonitrile, and polyethylene terephthalate. For several microfibers, only the pigments but not the substrate could be identified, and about half of the microfibers were Raman inactive, thus limiting definitive identification. These findings highlight the widespread MPs contamination in marine environments and the use of mussels as bioindicators of MP pollution. Future research should focus on identifying the sources of MPs, assessing their potential ecological impacts, and developing effective strategies for mitigating MP pollution. creator: Lucina Olivia Migliarini creator: Sonia Maribel Landro creator: Freddy Martinez-Espinoza creator: Daniel Horacio Murgida creator: Florencia Arrighetti uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19518 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Migliarini et al. title: Interpopulation morphological differences and sexual dimorphism of Dekay’s brownsnake (Storeria dekayi) along a rural–urban gradient link: https://peerj.com/articles/19439 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: In response to the surge of urbanization in the modern era, many organisms have undergone various changes, such as the shift of their morphological traits to face the challenges brought by this drastic environmental transformation. Rapid adaptive evolution in the morphology of urban-dwelling organisms has been documented in a broad array of taxa, such as lizards and birds, by comparing urban populations with their nonurban counterparts. However, relevant studies concerning more elusive and secretive organisms that also occur in both natural and urbanized habitats (e.g., snakes), are still lacking. Snakes lack appendages, which are often the trait of interest in other morphological studies, but factors such as head shape play a critical role in snakes, as it determines the prey size of these gape-limited predators. In this study, we apply both linear and geometric morphometric analyses to examine interpopulation morphological differences and sexual dimorphism in a small, semi-fossorial snake, Dekay’s brownsnake (Storeria dekayi). We focus on head shape in six different populations across the rural-urban gradient in New Jersey and New York, USA. We find evidence of increased morphological divergence and decreased sexual dimorphism in populations inhabiting more urbanized areas. Our study suggests the occurrence of an adaptive morphological shift in this common species in the urban environments, and lays the path for further investigation of urban adaptation in snakes and similar secretive species. creator: Tianqi Huang creator: Peter J. Morin creator: Sara Ruane uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19439 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Huang et al. title: Evaluation and transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of the ability of Auricularia heimuer to utilize crop straw link: https://peerj.com/articles/19300 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: Auricularia heimuer is an important edible fungus, and the choice of its cultivation medium is very important to improve the yield and quality. Traditionally, A. heimuer mostly uses wood chips as cultivation substrate, but with the increase of agricultural waste, exploring agricultural straw as an alternative substrate has become a research hotspot. In this study, a wild A. heimuer strain W-ZD22 with good adaptability to straw matrix was used to measure mycelia growth characteristics and extracellular enzyme activity. Transcriptomics and non-targeted metabolomics methods were used to compare the effects of mycelia using agricultural straw matrix and wood chips matrix. It was found that the lignin enzyme activities of corn straw and wood chips were similar. By transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis, we further analyzed the transcription profiles of A. heimuer mycelia grown in different substrates (straw and corn stalk, straw and sawdust, corn stalk and sawdust), and identified 5,149, 2,740 and 2,933 different expression genes (DEGs), respectively. The three control groups had a total of 526 gene variants. The top 20 pathways with the highest concentration of DEGs mainly involved glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, pyruvate metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, endoplasmic reticulum protein processing and ribosome. In order to further understand the similarity of enzyme activity of Auricularia mycelium on corn stalk and wood chips, metabolomic analysis of substrate of corn stalk and wood chips was conducted. It was found that different metabolites were significantly enriched in starch and sucrose metabolism, glutathione metabolism, carbon metabolism and other pathways, which provided theoretical basis for efficient comprehensive utilization of corn stalk in auricularia growth. creator: Di Zhang creator: Yuchen Liu creator: Ying Li creator: Guosheng Jiang creator: Mingzhu Meng creator: Jihua Wang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19300 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Zhang et al. title: Fecal microbiome analysis in patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes link: https://peerj.com/articles/19108 last-modified: 2025-06-11 description: BackgroundMetabolic syndrome (MS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are metabolically related diseases with rising global prevalence and increasingly evident links to the intestinal microbiota. Research suggests that imbalances in microbiota composition may play a crucial role in their pathogenesis. Specific population cohorts, such as the one in Galicia, Spain, offer the opportunity to analyze microbiota patterns within a distinct geographical and genetic context. This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the intestinal microbiota and MS and T2D.MethodsA cohort of 79 volunteers was analyzed over a 2-year study period. Recruitment posed significant challenges because of strict inclusion criteria (918PTE0540; PCI2018-093284), which required participants to be free from chronic medications and have a moderate to high risk of developing T2D. Volunteers were classified based on their serum glucose levels, body mass index, and the presence or absence of MS. To analyze the microbiota composition, amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA genes was performed on stool samples. Alpha diversity was assessed using the Chao and Shannon indices, while beta diversity was evaluated using permutational analysis of variance with Bray–Curtis and Chao distances. Differential abundance analysis was conducted using the LinDA method.ResultsIn patients with MS, we observed a higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and an increased prevalence of Blautia compared to healthy patients. than in healthy individuals. Other enriched taxa in patients with MS included Tyzerella, Streptococcus, and Ruminococcus callidus. In patients with T2D, we observed a higher Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio and a decrease in the phylum Actinobacteria compared with healthy individuals. Taxa such as Dorea, Prevotella, Dialister invisus, Fusicatenibacter, and Coprococcus were associated with T2D, while beneficial taxa such as Eubacterium, Ligilactobacillus, and Acidaminococcus were more prevalent in healthy or prediabetic individuals.ConclusionsThis study reveals notable differences in the intestinal microbiota composition among patients with MS and T2D. Changes in microbial composition, particularly the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, may serve as indicators of underlying pathology. At more specific taxonomic levels, several enriched taxa were identified in patients with MS, including Blautia, Tyzzerella, Dorea, Streptococcus, and Ruminococcus callidus. Additionally, species such as Dorea longicatena and Dialister invisus were enriched in prediabetic and diabetic patients, whereas beneficial genera (Eubacterium, Acidaminococcus, Bifidobacterium, and Ligilactobacillus) were more prevalent in healthy and prediabetic individuals than in those with T2D. creator: Laura Isabel Sinisterra Loaiza creator: Diego Fernández-Edreira creator: Jose Liñares-Blanco creator: Alberto Cepeda creator: Alejandra Cardelle-Cobas creator: Carlos Fernandez-Lozano uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19108 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Sinisterra Loaiza et al. title: Assessment of degenerative changes in the atlanto-odontoid joint using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging link: https://peerj.com/articles/19569 last-modified: 2025-06-10 description: BackgroundThis study sought to evaluate the severity of osteoarthritis in the atlanto-odontoid joint (AOJ) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and analyse its distribution by age and sex.Materials and MethodsThe CBCT images of 215 patients (130 females, 85 males; aged 18–80 years) taken for dental purposes were retrospectively analysed. The severity of the osteoarthritis in the AOJ was graded from 0 to 3, while its relationships with age and sex were assessed via ordinal and binary logistic regression analyses.ResultsOsteoarthritis-related changes were detected in 64.7% of patients (62.3% of females, 68.3% of males). Females showed 44.3% decreased odds of severe osteoarthritis compared to males (p = 0.041). Individuals aged 18–29 showed 99.9% decreased odds of severe osteoarthritis, those aged 30–39 showed 99.7% decreased odds, those aged 40–49 showed 99.4% decreased odds, those aged 50–59 showed 97.1% decreased odds, and those aged 60–69 showed 96.0% decreased odds of severe osteoarthritis compared to individuals aged 70–80 (all p < 0.01). Each additional year of age increased the risk of osteoarthritis by 8.0% (OR: 1.080; p < 0.001) (odds ratio (OR): 1.080; p < 0.001), although it was not significantly associated with sex (p = 0.248).ConclusionCBCT is effective in detecting degenerative changes in the AOJ. Moreover, it is associated with lower radiation doses than conventional CT. Ageing significantly increases both the probability and the severity of osteoarthritis. Routine AOJ evaluation during CBCT imaging may significantly enhance clinical decision-making by enabling the early detection and management of osteoarthritis. creator: Ramazan Berkay Peker creator: Omer Said Sezgin creator: Saadettin Kayipmaz creator: Senem Tuğra Dönmez uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19569 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Peker et al. title: Metabolomic analysis of bioactive compounds in dill (Anethum graveolens L.) extracts link: https://peerj.com/articles/19567 last-modified: 2025-06-10 description: BackgroundDill (Anethum graveolens L.) is a functional herb known for its dietary, medicinal, and health-promoting agents, as it enriches antioxidants that help to protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of several chronic diseases. The daily consumption of active components from dill, achieved through methods such as tea preparation and incorporation into soups and salads, relies on aqueous extraction techniques. The aim of this work was to investigate the metabolic profile of dill leaves extracted with water in various conditions. We also assessed the antioxidant and longevity properties of dill leaf extracts. The availability of aqueous-extracted chemicals from dill promotes therapeutic usage and nutritional supplements, showing its potential as a culinary and medicinal herb.Materials and MethodsThe metabolic profiles of dill leaves extracted with water at 27 °C and 90 °C were analyzed using untargeted proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR). The one-dimensional (1D) followed by two-dimensional (2D) J-resolved 1H NMR were employed. The antioxidant activities of dill leaf extracts were measured using four methods: total phenolic content (TPC), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays. The correlation between antioxidant properties and metabolites was analyzed using heatmap analysis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity assays were conducted. The longevity effect of dill leaf extracts on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) was also examined using western blotting.ResultsThe 1H NMR analysis identified 41 metabolites in dill leaf extracts, including 39 primary and two secondary metabolites. The antioxidant tests showed that an aqueous extraction of dill leaves with hot water at 90 °C resulted in much stronger antioxidant activities compared to using water at 27 °C. Antioxidant activities were positively correlated with the levels of five metabolites: pyridoxal, indole-3-lactate, adenine, inosine, and folate. β-Hydroxybutyrate, cellobiose, and α-glucose were the three metabolites that showed negative relationships with antioxidant activities. We also demonstrated that dill leaf extracts significantly reduced cytosolic oxidation and altered longevity markers in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) by increasing FOXO3, SIRT6, and AMPK while diminishing levels of mTOR and Akt proteins.ConclusionResults indicated that dill leaf extracts contain antioxidant and anti-aging potential, especially in aqueous extracts at 90 °C. Key metabolites contributing to these effects might facilitate oxidative protection and cellular longevity in fibroblasts, supporting the value of dill as a dietary and medicinal herb. creator: Jirattiporn Thanuma creator: Jutarop Phetcharaburanin creator: Hasaya Dokduang creator: Watcharin Loilome creator: Poramate Klanrit creator: Arporn Wangwiwatsin creator: Nisana Namwat uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19567 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Thanuma et al. title: Disentangling the gut microbiota of Aldabra giant tortoises of different ages and environments link: https://peerj.com/articles/19566 last-modified: 2025-06-10 description: BackgroundThe gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in regulating the physiological functions of its host, including immunity, metabolism, and digestion. The impact of environment and age on microbiota can be assessed by observing long-lived animals across different age groups and environments. The Aldabra giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea) is an ideal species for this study due to its exceptionally long lifespan of over 100 years.MethodsUsing 16S rRNA gene amplicon analysis, we analyzed 52 fecal samples from giant tortoises in Seychelles (Curieuse and Mahé islands) and in a zoological park in Italy, from very young individuals to those of >100 years old. We performed Alpha and Beta diversity analysis, relative abundance analysis, and complex upset plot analysis, comparing the results of tortoises from different environments and age groups.ResultsThe diversity and overall composition of the gut microbiota of tortoises were impacted mainly by geolocation rather than their age. The greater diversity of microbiota in wild tortoises was attributed to their food variance such as wild leaves and branches, compared to captive or domesticated conditions. Beta diversity analysis also revealed the contribution of both environment and age to the variation between samples, with environments accounting for a larger proportion of this contribution. Certain bacterial families, such as Spirochaetota and Fibrobacterota, were more prevalent in environments with higher fiber intake, reflecting dietary differences. Additionally, a range of host-independent environmental bacteria was found to be specific to individuals in Curieuse and not in other geolocations. On the other hand, there were no bacterial taxa specific to centenarians, whose microbial complexity was reduced compared to adult or elderly tortoises.ConclusionsOur records showed that environment is the primary influence in the overall composition and diversity of the gut microbiota of Aldabra giant tortoises. As giant tortoises are amongst the longest-lived vertebrate animals, these findings can be utilized to monitor their health according to their ages, and enhance their conservation efforts. creator: Douaa Zakaria creator: Camillo Sandri creator: Monica Modesto creator: Caterina Spiezio creator: Donatella Scarafile creator: Allen Cedras creator: Luigimaria Borruso creator: Paolo Manghi creator: Paolo Trevisi creator: Nicola Segata creator: Paola Mattarelli creator: Masanori Arita uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19566 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zakaria et al. title: Adaptation and validation of the Chinese version of the Hospice Comfort Questionnaire-Patient (HCQ-P) link: https://peerj.com/articles/19562 last-modified: 2025-06-10 description: ObjectiveThe Hospice Comfort Questionnaire-Patients (HCQ-P) is widely used to assess patient’s comfort levels in hospice care. This research aimed to culturally adapt the HCQ-P for the Chinese context and validate its psychometric properties to ensure its applicability and effectiveness in China.MethodsThis research was conducted in two main phases: (1) translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the HCQ-P into Chinese, (2) evaluation of the psychometric properties through expert consultations and a cross-sectional survey among 360 hospice care patients. The evaluation included determining floor and ceiling effects, evaluating internal consistency using Cronbach’s α, and testing test-retest reliability with the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Content validity was assessed using the content validity index (CVI), and construct validity was tested through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).ResultsThe HCQ-P was successfully translated and culturally adapted into Chinese, with no significant floor or ceiling effects detected. The overall Cronbach’s α for the HCQ-P was 0.94, demonstrating excellent internal consistency, while dimension-specific alphas ranged from 0.77 to 0.84. The overall ICC was 0.93, indicating high test-retest reliability, with individual dimensions ranging from 0.77 to 0.81. Both item-level and scale-level CVIs reached 1, reflecting unanimous expert agreement on content relevance. Significant factor loadings in the CFA confirm that the HCQ-P is statistically robust and well-aligned with the cross-cultural and clinical contexts of Chinese hospice care.ConclusionsThe Chinese version of the HCQ-P exhibits robust psychometric properties, making it a valid and reliable instrument for assessing patient comfort in Chinese hospice care settings. creator: Nana Xu creator: Xu Yan creator: Xiaohong Ou creator: Jun Ren creator: Qiaoqin Wan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19562 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Xu et al. title: Advances in drug resistance and resistance mechanisms of four colorectal cancer-associated gut microbiota link: https://peerj.com/articles/19535 last-modified: 2025-06-10 description: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor in the gastrointestinal tract with inconspicuous early symptoms, high morbidity and mortality, and poor prognosis. Gut microbiota are present in the human intestinal system and have certain functions, which include the integrity of the epithelial barrier and the enhancement of protective immune responses. The etiology of CRC is numerous and complex, including poor lifestyle and dietary habits, and instability of the gut microbiota, which is considered to be one of the major factors in the development of CRC, includes mainly Bacteroides fragilis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Escherichia coli, and Enterococcus faecalis. Enrichment of these bacteria in CRC tumor tissues may increase other pro-inflammatory opportunistic pathogens and decrease butyrate-producing bacteria, leading to an imbalance in intestinal homeostasis (dysbiosis) and ultimately tumor formation. Antibiotic-induced changes in the gut microbiota affect tissue utilization and redox homeostasis of macronutrients and micronutrients. However, the long-term use and abuse of antibiotics has made the problem of drug resistance a difficult problem that currently plagues the regulation of gut microbiota, as well as a complicated issue in the prevention and treatment of CRC. In this review, we elucidated the drug resistance of four CRC-associated gut microbiota, namely Bacteroides fragilis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Escherichia coli, and Enterococcus faecalis, and discussed the common and different aspects of the resistance mechanisms of the four gut microbiota, with the aim of providing a basis for the prevention and control of CRC. creator: Yu Gan creator: Hao Yang creator: Maijian Wang creator: Jida Li uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19535 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Gan et al. title: Exosomal non-coding RNAs: key molecules in the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease link: https://peerj.com/articles/19352 last-modified: 2025-06-10 description: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. As aging populations grow and lifestyle changes, the incidence of CAD is escalating. Traditional biomarkers for CAD diagnosis, such as creatine kinase-muscle brain (CK-MB), troponins, and n-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), are influenced by age, sex, the presence of chest pain, and renal function levels. However, since these biomarkers are also detected in many other diseases such as heart failure, chronic renal failure, pulmonary embolism, or septic shock, explore and identification of novel unique biomarkers for CAD are of clinical significance. Exosomes containing non-coding RNAs, proteins, and lipids can serve as biomarkers and regulators for regulate various biological processes. Exosomal non-coding RNAs have been identified as risk factors for CAD and pivotal elements in cellular functions, making them significant candidates for CAD diagnosis and prognosis. This review elaborates on the current understandings of CAD, highlights the important roles of exosomal non-coding RNAs in CAD diagnosis and treatment, and concludes with future perspectives. creator: Cuixue Ma creator: Xinyu Gao creator: Kongwei Li creator: Yin Liu creator: Yuan He creator: Yang Zhang creator: Wei Lei uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19352 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Ma et al. title: Health risk assessment from habitants of Araró, Michoacán, México, exposed to arsenic by dust, using Monte Carlo probabilistic method link: https://peerj.com/articles/18805 last-modified: 2025-06-10 description: Arsenic (As) is a globally distributed metalloid that is emitted from natural sources, including geothermal processes, as well as from anthropogenic activities. The village of Araró, in the state of Michoacán, is located in the Trans-Mexico volcanic belt, which is a highly active geothermal site in central Mexico. The aim of this study is to evaluate the health risk to residents of the town from As exposure from dust through oral, dermal and inhalation pathways, using Monte Carlo simulation. Forty dust samples were randomly collected in Araró village, and these were analyzed using portable X-ray fluoroscopy. The As levels obtained for dust samples ranged from 5.94 to 42.53 mg/kg. Point estimation of hazard quotient (HQ) and its probability distribution was assessed using U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) formulas and Monte Carlo simulation, respectively, for oral, dermal and inhalation pathways. Anthropometrical data were obtained from the Health and Nutrition National Survey 2018. Mean average daily dose (ADD) for all age groups (preschooler, Elementary (6–12), adolescent and adult) were below safety limits. A total of 4 and 6% of preschooler and Elementary dermal ADDs were above safety limits. For oral and dermal exposure in children, HQ and hazard index (HI) mean values were higher than other age groups, despite safety limits not being reached. Also, it was found that dermal carcinogenic risk (CR) value for adults may represent a potential cancer risk. Despite a relatively low reported concentration of As it is important that more As exposure routes be explored to determine the severity of the problem because previous studies have shown high As concentrations in drinking water. creator: José Leopoldo Mendoza-Lagunas creator: Alejandra Damayanti Aguilar-Espinosa creator: Laura Nelly Rodríguez-Cantú creator: Roberto Guerra-González creator: Diana María Meza-Figueroa creator: María Mercedes Meza-Montenegro creator: Marco A. Martínez-Cinco uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18805 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Mendoza-Lagunas et al. title: Reliability and responsiveness of a tissue hardness meter and algometer for measuring tissue hardness and pressure pain threshold in upper trapezius myofascial trigger points link: https://peerj.com/articles/19580 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: BackgroundTissue hardness meter and algometer (THA) are used to assess tissue hardness (TH) and pressure pain threshold (PPT), particularly in the evaluation of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). This study introduces a side-lying protocol designed to comprehensively measure all portions of the upper trapezius (UT) muscle.PurposeThe objective was to determine the reliability and responsiveness of THA to measure TH and PPT in patients with MTrPs in the UT muscle.MethodsReliability of TH and PPT measurements was assessed in a sample of 24 participants. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were evaluated using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC3,1), while absolute reliability was established via Bland–Altman analysis, including the calculation of 95% limits of agreement (95% LoA). To assess responsiveness, 36 additional participants were recruited. Both distribution-based methods (mean difference, effect size (ES), standardized response mean (SRM), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change at 95% confidence (MDC95)) and anchor-based methods (minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and area under the curve (AUC)) were utilized in the analysis.ResultsIntra-rater reliability was excellent for both TH and PPT (ICC3,1: 0.95–0.97), while inter-rater reliability was moderate (ICC3,1: 0.60). Evidence of both fixed and proportional bias was identified for both TH and PPT. For TH, the SEM and MDC95 were 2.66% and 7.37%, respectively, while for PPT, they were 0.12 kg/cm2 and 0.34 kg/cm2, respectively. Following six physical therapy sessions, significant reductions in TH (mean: −7.86%; MCID: −7.43%; AUC: 0.97) and significant increases in PPT (mean: 0.20 kg/cm2; MCID: 0.21 kg/cm2; AUC: 0.86) were observed. Additionally, changes in PPT showed a negative correlation with improvements in the Neck Disability Index (NDI) (r = −0.35, p < 0.05).ConclusionThe side-lying protocol demonstrated reliable and clinically relevant TH and PPT measurements, supporting its use for monitoring treatment outcomes in patients with MTrPs in the UT muscle. creator: Soukmisai Somphithak creator: Uraiwan Chatchawan creator: Atipong Pimdee creator: Wiraphong Sucharit uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19580 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Somphithak et al. title: Lactylation’s role in bone health and disease: mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential link: https://peerj.com/articles/19534 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: This article reviews the mechanisms and research progress of lactylation, an emerging post-translational modification (PTM) of proteins, in bone metabolism and related diseases. Lactate-derived lactylation modifies lysine residues on histones, affecting chromatin structure and gene expression. Studies indicate that lactylation plays a significant role in bone metabolism, with mechanisms including the regulation of osteoblast differentiation, potential influence on osteoclast activity, and indirect effects on bone homeostasis through the modulation of immune cell functions such as macrophages and T cells. In periodontitis, lactylation may impact inflammation progression and tissue repair by regulating macrophage polarization and function. In osteoporosis, lactylation adjusts bone density by influencing osteogenic gene expression. Additionally, the role of lactylation in other skeletal behaviors and diseases is gradually being revealed, such as its association with insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, and its roles in tooth development and rheumatoid arthritis, providing new targets for the treatment of these conditions. Future research will focus on the enzymatic regulatory mechanisms of lactylation, its interactions with other PTMs, and its involvement in metabolic diseases and inflammatory responses. The regulation of lactylation offers new strategies for the treatment of bone-related diseases, including the development of drugs that can reverse or modulate lactylation, and the restoration of bone metabolic balance through the adjustment of lactylation levels. As the understanding of lactylation’s regulatory mechanisms and biological functions deepens, its potential for clinical applications will continue to expand, particularly in the fields of bone regeneration, immunity, and the treatment of metabolic diseases. creator: Zhiyuan Ye creator: Xuanyu Chen creator: Jiyuan Zou creator: Wenjing Wu creator: Jingyuan Yang creator: Li Yang creator: Lvhua Guo creator: Tao Luo uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19534 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Ye et al. title: Synergistic application of Bacillus subtilis IAGS174 and thiamine to mitigate salinity and lead stress in Helianthus annuus link: https://peerj.com/articles/19527 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: The increasing soil contamination with salinity and heavy metals poses serious threats to the cultivation of economically and ornamentally important plants such as Helianthus annuus (Sunflower). Bacillus subtilis IAGS174 and thiamine are well known for their role in increasing plant stress tolerance levels by multiple mechanisms. The present research aimed to assess the effect of B. subtilis IAGS174 and thiamine on H. annuus under salinity and lead (Pb) stress by analyzing the growth parameters, physiological markers, and biochemical assays. In a pot experiment, B. subtilis IAGS174 and thiamine were supplied to H. annuus plants grown in soil subjected to 500 mg/kg of salt and 150 mg/kg of Pb. The growth attributes and photosynthetic machinery of H. annuus plants were significantly reduced under single and combined stress of Pb and salinity. The combined stress of Pb and salinity declined the root length, shoot length, root fresh weight, shoot fresh weight, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b of H. annuus by 49%, 61%, 48%, 39%, 53%, and 55%, respectively, as compared to the control. Moreover, under stress, H. annuus plants exhibited higher levels of antioxidative enzymes, phenol, flavonoid and proline content. Nevertheless, the combined effect of B. subtilis IAGS174 and thiamine improved the fresh weight of shoots and roots, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids by 34%, 38%, 15%, 18% and 16%, respectively, under the combined stress of salt and Pb to their respective controlled conditions. Supplementation of B. subtilis IAGS174 and thiamine significantly increased the antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (phenol, flavonoids and proline) in sunflowers under combined and individual stress of sodium and Pb. Nevertheless, inoculation of B. subtilis IAGS174 accelerated the translocation of Pb and Na, while thiamine application reduced the uptake of these metals. Conclusively, single and combined application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and thiamine proved a sustainable and effective option to improve plant tolerance against salt and Pb stress and offer new avenues for suitable agricultural practices in heavy metal and salt-contaminated soil. creator: Sidra Fatima creator: Waheed Ullah Khan creator: Rehana Sardar creator: Bareera Munir creator: Areeba Rehman creator: Waheed Akram creator: Iqra Munir creator: Nasim Ahmad Yasin uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19527 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Fatima et al. title: Mitogenomic phylogeny of Tetrigoidea (Insecta, Orthoptera), with a focus on the genus Zhengitettix link: https://peerj.com/articles/19521 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: The mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) has been widely used to infer the phylogeny, origin and evolution of Orthopteran insects. Although several mitogenomic data have been used to study the phylogenetic relationships of Tetrigoidea (Orthoptera), the phylogenetic status of several subfamilies and tribes was still unclear due to the limited sampling of taxon. To further analyze the mitogenomic features and phylogeny of Tetrigoidea, five mitogenomes (Zhengitettix curvispinus, Z. hainanensis, Scelimena melli, Eucriotettix oculatus and Thoradonta yunnana) were sequenced and analyzed in this study, with Z. hainanensis being the newly published mitogenome and Z. curvispinus and S. melli being the complete mitogenomes. Nucleotide composition showed that more A and T bases than C and G bases were found in the sampled mitogenomes, with A- and C-skew. A large intergenic region containing tandem repeats was identified between trnS(ucn) and nad1 in the Z. curvispinus mitogenome. The protein-coding genes (PCGs) used ATG and TAA as the most common initiation and termination codons, respectively. The tRNAs showed a typical clover secondary structure in the Z. curvispinus. The A+T-rich region contained tandem repeats in Z. curvispinus. Phylogenetic analyses of Tetrigoidea based on the maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) method supported several non-monophyly subfamilies and tribes, such as Scelimeninae and Thoradontini. Divergence time results showed that Tetrigoidea is one of the basal branch of Orthoptera, with Batrachideinae splitting first, followed by Tripetalocerinae. The genera diverged over a relatively long period, expanding from the Jurassic to the Neogene. These results provide useful data for the study of the mitogenome characteristic of the Tetrigoidea and even the whole Orthoptera, and were basic resources for their phylogeny and evolution study. creator: Xuejuan Li creator: Wenli Dou creator: Liliang Lin uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19521 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Li et al. title: Spatial heterogeneity of multi-scale trade-off synergies in ecosystem services link: https://peerj.com/articles/19507 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: BackgroundElucidating the intricate interrelationships among ecosystem services is an indispensable prerequisite for collaborative management of diversified ecosystem services. The interaction mechanism between services across multiple spatial dimensions provides a valuable reference for the formulation of ecological conservation strategies and territorial spatial planning policies.MethodsBased on the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-Offs (InVEST) model, three ecosystem services of water yield, carbon storage, and soil conservation were evaluated in Suzhou City from 2000 to 2020, their spatial-temporal distribution characteristics were analyzed, and cold hot spots were identified. Using the difference comparison method, the spatial heterogeneity of ecosystem service trade-off synergies was analyzed from the two scales of grid and county. The scale effect was analyzed.ResultsThe results demonstrated that water yield, soil conservation, and carbon storage first declined and subsequently increased in Suzhou City from 2000 to 2020. The spatial-temporal pattern of other ecosystem services altered dramatically, with the exception of the slight spatial change in soil conservation. The proportion of non-cold-hot spots in water yield was the highest. The proportion of soil conservation and carbon storage coldspots was the highest. At the scale of 2 and 10 km, the relationship between water yield-carbon storage and carbon storage-soil conservation was dominated by trade-off. The interaction between water yield and soil conservation was mainly synergy. But the spatial agglomeration characteristics were different at different grid scales. At the county level, there were a few minor differences in the interactions among ecosystem services. The findings of this study can be a source of direction and information for fine management strategy design and implementation as well as for the creation of an ecological planning blueprint in Suzhou City. creator: Qiaozhen Guo creator: Yaxin Tian creator: Yue Zhang creator: Yajiao Wang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19507 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Guo et al. title: From data to insights: a tool for comprehensive Quantification of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (QoCGM) link: https://peerj.com/articles/19501 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has become a important technology in the management and research of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, providing real-time data on glucose fluctuations that were previously inaccessible with traditional monitoring methods. Numerous analytical tools have been developed for platforms like R and Python to calculate standard metrics and extract insights from CGM data. However, these tools often fail to address the full spectrum of analytical requirements. Furthermore, there is a lack of updated, open-source tools tailored for MATrix LABoratory (MATLAB)—a platform widely used by the research community. To address this gap, we introduce Quantification of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (QoCGM), a comprehensive, open-source post-hoc analytical tool for CGM data specifically designed for MATLAB. A case study involving 324 individuals with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) demonstrates the utility of QoCGM, highlighting the distinct aspects of glucose dynamics captured by different CGM-derived metrics through an analysis of their coefficients of determination (R2). creator: Simon Cichosz creator: Stine Hangaard creator: Thomas Kronborg creator: Peter Vestergaard creator: Morten Hasselstrøm Jensen uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19501 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Cichosz et al. title: Exploring the systemic impacts of urinary tract infection-specific antibiotic treatments on the gut microbiome, metabolome, and intestinal morphology in rats link: https://peerj.com/articles/19486 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: The gut microbiota is a dynamic ecosystem that plays a crucial role in host metabolism, immune system regulation, and protection against pathogens. An imbalanced gut microbiota has been associated with various diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Antibiotic therapy can disrupt the balance of the microbiome, making it essential to understand the specific effects of these antibiotics on gut microbiota and related host function. This study aims to systematically investigate the impact of UTI-specific antibiotic treatment on the gut microbiota of rats. By analyzing changes in microbial composition and their effects on host metabolism and intestinal structure, we seek to provide new insights into the broader consequences of antibiotic intervention on host-microbiota interactions. The research findings indicate that antibiotic treatment leads to a significant disruption in microbial diversity and metabolic characteristics, as well as notable histological changes in the intestinal mucosa. These results highlight the need for cautious use of antibiotics, considering their extensive effects beyond antimicrobial activity. Future research should focus on strategies to mitigate these impacts, potentially through targeted antibiotic therapies or probiotics, to better balance treatment efficacy with health preservation. creator: Hao Guo creator: Xiang Zhou creator: Zhou Li creator: Junjie Zhi creator: Chaowei Fu creator: Xinwei Liu creator: Yufan Wu creator: Fengping Liu creator: Ninghan Feng uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19486 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Guo et al. title: Body fat percentage is a key factor in elevated plasma levels of caffeine and its metabolite in women link: https://peerj.com/articles/19480 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: BackgroundCaffeine (CAF) intake is measured in absolute daily amounts or doses per kilogram of body weight. However, both methods are not entirely appropriate. The activity of liver enzymes that metabolise caffeine may be reduced in obese individuals, and plasma caffeine concentrations may vary depending on the fat-to-free-fat mass ratio. This study investigates the relationship between, between body fat percentage and the plasma concentrations of caffeine and its metabolites in women.MethodsThis experimental study with a between-group comparison design included 38 women (age 25.5 ± 2.7 years; body weight 66.5 ± 15.3 kg). Body fat percentage was measured using bioimpedance analysis (mBCA 515 SECA analyzer), and participants were categorized as non-obese (≤30% body fat, n = 14) or obese (>30% body fat, n = 24). Both groups received a dose of 6 mg/kg body weight of caffeine. Blood samples were taken 60 min after caffeine ingestion, and the concentrations of caffeine and its metabolites in plasma were determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography. The Mann-Whitney U test assessed CAF, paraxanthine (PX), and theobromine (TB) concentrations, while Spearman’s correlation analyzed variable relationships. General linear model (GLM) compared caffeine metabolite levels, and GPower determined the required sample size (44) for large effects.ResultsThe results showed that the obese group had significantly higher caffeine (Mdn = 10.64 vs. Mdn = 2.32) and PX concentrations (Mdn = 1.73 vs. Mdn = 0.85) compared to the non-obese group, with significant differences (p < 0.001 and p = 0.007, respectively). However, no significant difference in TB concentration was observed (p = 0.486). A linear model revealed that group membership significantly influenced CAF concentration (p < 0.001), explaining 56.8% of its variance. PX and TB concentrations showed poor model fits, with minimal explanatory power from group, age, fat mass, and body mass index (BMI). Correlation analysis found strong associations between CAF concentration and fat mass (rho = 0.689).ConclusionsHigher body fat percentage is associated with increased plasma caffeine and paraxanthine concentrations following a weight-based caffeine dose. These findings suggest that body fat percentage may be a more relevant factor than total body weight in caffeine metabolism, with potential implications for personalized caffeine dosing guidelines. creator: Przemysław Domaszewski creator: Mariusz Konieczny creator: Paweł Pakosz creator: Jakub Matuska creator: Anna Poliwoda creator: Elżbieta Skorupska creator: Manel Santafe uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19480 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Domaszewski et al. title: Phenolic compounds profiling of nine dogwood species (Cornus L.) leaves link: https://peerj.com/articles/19457 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: This study analysed the phenolic compound profile in the leaves of nine Cornus species (C. alba, C. amomum, C. sericea var. baileyi, C. florida, C. kousa, C. mas, C. officinalis, C. coreana, and C. racemosa) to evaluate their potential as stable sources of bioactive compounds. The main phenolic acids (gallic, ellagic and chlorogenic acids) and flavonoids were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD). Among the phenolic acids, C. mas and C. officinalis contained the highest levels of chlorogenic acid, while C. coreana totally lacked this compound. Notably, the chlorogenic acid concentration in C. mas also exceeded previously reported values for other plant parts. The highest ellagic acid content was found in C. sericea var. baileyi, while the lowest was observed in C. racemosa. C. coreana showed the highest concentration of gallic acid. Flavonoid analysis revealed that quercetin-3-O-galactoside was present in all species studied, with the highest levels in C. racemosa and the lowest in C. florida. Quercetin-3-O-glucoside was abundant in C. kousa but absent in C. mas. Quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside was detected in significant amounts only in C. racemosa and C. amomum. Among the kaempferol derivatives, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside was the most abundant, with the highest concentration in C. coreana. Furthermore, C. racemosa and C. amomum were the richest sources of quercetin, while C. coreana was particularly rich in kaempferol. These results highlight the diverse phenolic profiles of Cornus species and their potential as valuable sources of bioactive compounds. creator: Vladimír Forman creator: Kristina Trush creator: Jana Konôpková creator: Peter Ferus creator: Szilvia Czigle creator: Pavel Mučaji creator: Dominika Bošiaková uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19457 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: ©2025 Forman et al. title: Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Interleukin-6 in bile duct healing with autologous parietal peritoneum: a non-inferiority experimental study in rabbits link: https://peerj.com/articles/19306 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: BackgroundBile duct injury (BDI) remains a serious complication of hepatobiliary surgery, particularly in laparoscopic cholecystectomy, often leading to strictures, fibrosis, and long-term morbidity. Although traditional repair techniques such as primary suturing and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy are widely used, they carry risks of anastomotic complications and bile duct dysfunction. Autologous peritoneum has emerged as a potential alternative graft material due to its biocompatibility and regenerative properties. This study evaluates the efficacy of autologous parietal peritoneum graft in bile duct healing, focusing on fibroblast activity, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression as indicators of tissue remodeling.Materials and MethodsThis experimental study involved 27 male New Zealand rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), divided into three groups: group A (primary bile duct closure), group B (gallbladder transplant), and group C (parietal peritoneum transplant). The rabbits were anesthetized using a combination of ketamine, xylazine, isoflurane, and sevoflurane. Postoperative care included antibiotics and pain management. The study employed a post-test-only design. IL-6 and VEGF expression were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the anastomosis was pathologically evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS 28.0, using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Kruskal–Wallis tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained.ResultsOn day 3, fibroblast infiltration was significantly lower in the autologous peritoneum group (p = 0.040) compared to other groups, suggesting delayed initial recruitment. By day 7, fibroblast density increased, and by day 14, all groups exhibited well-organized tissue structures with no significant intergroup differences. VEGF (p = 0.788 on day 3, 0.473 on day 7, and 0.586 on day 14) and IL-6 (p = 0.629 on day 3, 0.587 on day 7, and 0.925 on day 14) levels showed no significant variations among the groups, indicating comparable angiogenic and inflammatory responses across treatment conditions.ConclusionAutologous peritoneum supports gradual bile duct healing, despite initial delayed fibroblast recruitment, with histological evidence of progressive tissue remodeling. However, the lack of significant differences in VEGF and IL-6 levels suggests that angiogenesis and inflammation were similarly regulated across groups. Given the study’s short follow-up period, further research is needed to assess the long-term integration, functional outcomes, and potential benefits of autologous peritoneum in bile duct reconstruction. creator: Anung Noto Nugroho creator: Soetrisno Soetrisno creator: Ambar Mudigdo creator: Kristanto Yuli Yarso creator: Dono Indarto creator: Akmal Zhahir Wahyudi uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19306 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Nugroho et al. title: Restoring South African subtropical succulent thicket using Portulacaria afra: rooting variation across three soil types link: https://peerj.com/articles/19303 last-modified: 2025-06-09 description: AimLocalised variation in soil properties can play an important role in shaping vegetation structure and plant community composition. However, in degraded ecosystems, these vegetation patterns may not be apparent due to the homogenization of local plant communities. Thus, defining restoration targets may prove challenging. By comparing the root development of Portulacaria afra (L) Jacq. cuttings grown in three different soils collected from degraded subtropical succulent thicket habitats, we aim to test whether soil chemical properties act as an ecological filter limiting root growth, which may in turn influence community composition and restoration success. This study focuses on root biomass differences as a proxy for potential vegetation structure rather than directly assessing plant community composition.LocationEastern Cape, South Africa.TaxonPortulacaria afra (L) Jacq.MethodsSoil was collected from the top 20 cm at three sites within a degraded succulent thicket landscape (two with historically closed canopies, and one with a historically open woody canopy). A total of 196 P. afra cuttings were grown in each soil (588 cuttings in total) across two growing conditions (glasshouse and growth chamber). Root development was evaluated by destructive harvesting of 14 cuttings per treatment (soil type and growth condition) per week, and root dry weight was compared across treatments for each harvest date. The soil properties from each site were analysed to identify possible drivers for any differences in root development and visualised via a principal components analysis.ResultsSignificant differences in root dry weight were detected (all tests: F5,74 = 4.11–11.45, p < 0.01). Root biomass was significantly lower in cuttings grown in soil from Site C (calcareous; historically open canopy) compared to Sites A and B (slightly saline and non-saline, respectively; historically closed-canopy thicket), suggesting that edaphic factors may have historically influenced vegetation structure. The soil from Site C showed notable differences from the soils at Sites A and B, with a higher pH (7.9 vs 6.5, 6.8, respectively), increased Ca2+ concentration (25.4 vs 8.8, 6.4 cmol(+)/kg), Ca saturation % (83 vs 62, 53), and a lower P concentration (<2.2 vs 116, 43 mg/kg). These factors, particularly high pH and low P availability, likely suppressed root initiation and development, which may limit P. afra establishment in restoration efforts on calcareous soils.ConclusionLocal variation in soil properties plays an important role in the regeneration dynamics and restoration of succulent thicket vegetation. Calcareous soils likely supported an open canopy vegetation with relatively low P. afra cover. This possible vegetation structure should be accounted for when setting restoration targets and measuring restoration success. creator: Alastair J. Potts creator: Duncan Liddell creator: Catherine E. Clarke creator: Nicholas C. Galuszynski uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19303 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Potts et al. title: Gut microbiota diversity and composition in children with autism spectrum disorder: associations with symptom severity link: https://peerj.com/articles/19528 last-modified: 2025-06-06 description: BackgroundAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder impairing social and communication skills. Gut microbiota has become key in understanding ASD pathophysiology. However, the relationship between the ASD symptoms and alternation of gut microbiota still remains unknow. We hypothesize that the composition of gut microbiota in children with ASD may be strongly associated with the severity of their symptoms.MethodsHere, fecal samples from children (divided in to three groups: neurotypical, severe ASD and mild ASD) at a hospital were collected. The symptoms of ASD were assessed by an experienced pediatric neurologist, and the severity of the symptoms in children with ASD was determined based on the assessment scores. Then the diversity and composition of gut microbiota were detected by high-throughput sequencing.ResultsIn total, 2,021 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were obtained from 46 fecal samples, with highest in the neurotypical group. Alpha diversity in bacteria differed between severe and mild ASD. Microbiota health and dysbiosis indices varied with ASD severity. Beta diversity indicated that severe ASD differed from others, and mild ASD was closer to neurotypical in community structure. At the phylum level, Firmicutes was the dominant bacteria but abundances differed in different groups, and Ascomycota increased in severe ASD fungi. At the genus level, groups had distinct dominants, and mild ASD microbiota resembled that of neurotypical children. Function prediction revealed differences in bacteria and fungi, with severe ASD having higher amino acid metabolism, lower cofactor/vitamin metabolism, and more undefined saprotrophs.ConclusionThis study revealed gut microbiota differences between ASD children (varying symptoms) and neurotypical ones, showing milder ASD closer in microbiota aspects. It offers insights for exploring ASD pathogenesis and devising interventions. creator: Qinghuang Zeng creator: Yisheng Hu creator: Leiying Xie creator: Xinyi Zhang creator: Yun Huang creator: Jianbin Ye creator: Shouan Wang creator: Jia Xu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19528 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zeng et al. title: Efficacy of trimetazidine for myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat models: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19515 last-modified: 2025-06-06 description: ContextTrimetazidine (TMZ) is used as a medication for ischemic heart disease treatment. Recently, several animal models have been studied in relation to the research on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) treatment. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of TMZ in rat MIRI models to evaluate TMZ’s therapeutic efficacy.MethodsWe systematically searched eight databases for studies on TMZ in rat MIRI models. We utilized two literature quality assessment criteria to evaluate the paper quality. Assessment of TMZ treatment efficacy was based on the outcomes, as well as on the subgroup analysis. This study was registered at PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022377728).ResultsAfter applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 24 eligible studies were shortlisted from 405 studies. We found that, in rat MIRI models, TMZ dramatically boosted the superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels while decreasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB), and the infarct size. In addition, the duration of myocardial ischemia, reperfusion duration, dosage, rat species and mode of administration influenced the effectiveness of TMZ. The result indicated that TMZ had a considerable therapeutic effect on the duration of myocardial ischemia at less than 30 min as well as on the duration of reperfusion at 120–180 min. In fact, it was more effective when administered intravenously and via gavage at doses of 3–10 mg/kg.ConclusionTMZ can attenuate the damage caused by MIRI in rat, with a myocardial protective effect. These findings would facilitate preclinical evidence for further investigation. creator: Xiaobin Zhang creator: Zhanhui Duan creator: Yanpu Yu creator: Chunjing Li creator: Mingyao Hao creator: Yuning Ma creator: Yuxia Ma creator: Dongqing Du uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19515 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zhang et al. title: Radiomics machine learning based on asymmetrically prominent cortical and deep medullary veins combined with clinical features to predict prognosis in acute ischemic stroke: a retrospective study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19469 last-modified: 2025-06-06 description: BackgroundAcute ischemic stroke (AIS) has a poor prognosis and a high recurrence rate. Predicting the outcomes of AIS patients in the early stages of the disease is therefore important. The establishment of intracerebral collateral circulation significantly improves the survival of brain cells and the outcomes of AIS patients. However, no machine learning method has been applied to investigate the correlation between the dynamic evolution of intracerebral venous collateral circulation and AIS prognosis. Therefore, we employed a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm to analyze asymmetrically prominent cortical veins (APCVs) and deep medullary veins (DMVs) to establish a radiomic model for predicting the prognosis of AIS by combining clinical indicators.MethodsThe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data and clinical indicators of 150 AIS patients were retrospectively analyzed. Regions of interest corresponding to the DMVs and APCVs were delineated, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was used to select features extracted from these regions. An APCV-DMV radiomic model was created via the SVM algorithm, and independent clinical risk factors associated with AIS were combined with the radiomic model to generate a joint model. The SVM algorithm was selected because of its proven efficacy in handling high-dimensional radiomic data compared with alternative classifiers (e.g., random forest) in pilot experiments.ResultsNine radiomic features associated with AIS patient outcomes were ultimately selected. In the internal training test set, the AUCs of the clinical, DMV–APCV radiomic and joint models were 0.816, 0.976 and 0.996, respectively. The DeLong test revealed that the predictive performance of the joint model was better than that of the individual models, with a test set AUC of 0.996, sensitivity of 0.905, and specificity of 1.000 (P < 0.05).ConclusionsUsing radiomic methods, we propose a novel joint predictive model that combines the imaging histologic features of the APCV and DMV with clinical indicators. This model quantitatively characterizes the morphological and functional attributes of venous collateral circulation, elucidating its important role in accurately evaluating the prognosis of patients with AIS and providing a noninvasive and highly accurate imaging tool for early prognostic prediction. creator: Hongyi Li creator: Cancan Chang creator: Bo Zhou creator: Yu Lan creator: Peizhuo Zang creator: Shannan Chen creator: Shouliang Qi creator: Ronghui Ju creator: Yang Duan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19469 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Li et al. title: Salivary response of Geoffroy’s spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) to consumption of plant secondary metabolites link: https://peerj.com/articles/19354 last-modified: 2025-06-06 description: Geoffroy’s spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) can modulate the acidity-alkalinity (pH) and salivary expression of total proteins (TP) and proline-rich proteins (PRPs) depending on the concentration of tannins in their diet, helping to counteract negative post-ingestive effects. Besides tannins, plants produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites like flavonoids and alkaloids that elicit a bitter taste. Geoffroy’s spider monkeys feed on various plant species and consume different concentrations of secondary metabolites. However, it is unclear whether there is salivary modulation of pH, TP, and PRPs to secondary metabolites other than tannins, or whether this effect also occurs towards bitter substances not associated with secondary metabolites. Therefore, we assessed if there are changes in salivary pH, TP, and PRPs expression towards bitter substances or if spider monkeys display a specific response to secondary metabolites present in their diet and substances not associated with secondary metabolites. We determined the concentration of tannic acid, caffeine and rutin in fruits and leaves in different maturity stages reported as a part of the diet of Geoffroy’s spider monkeys. We presented six adults Geoffroy’s spider monkeys with different concentrations of tannic acid, caffeine, and rutin (0.1, 0.3, 0.6 and one mM) and denatonium benzoate (0.001, 0.003, 0.006 and 0.01 mM) dissolved in a 30 mM sucrose solution. We administered each concentration and collected saliva using swabs (SalivaBio). We used test paper strips to measure the pH and determined the TP concentration using the Bradford method at 595 nm. We also determined the percentage of PRPs using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The results showed marked differences in tannic acid, caffeine and rutin concentration depending on the plant part and species. We found an increase in salivary pH in response to consumption of secondary metabolites, no variations in TP concentration, variations in the percentage of PRPs associated with tannic acid concentrations, and no significant changes when the animals consumed denatonium benzoate. Our results showed that spider monkeys specifically modulate acidity-alkalinity towards secondary metabolites and salivary PRPs expression towards tannic acid in their diet, and that they do not have a generalized salivary response to bitter compounds that are typically considered as toxic substances. creator: Carlos Eduardo Ramírez-Torres creator: Fabiola Carolina Espinosa Gómez creator: Jorge E. Morales-Mávil creator: María Remedios Mendoza-López creator: Matthias Laska creator: Laura Teresa Hernández-Salazar uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19354 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Ramírez-Torres et al. title: Morphological and DNA sequence data uncover a new millipede species in the Thyropygus opinatus subgroup and assign T. peninsularis to this subgroup (Diplopoda: Spirostreptida: Harpagophoridae) link: https://peerj.com/articles/19277 last-modified: 2025-06-06 description: The millipede genus Thyropygus Pocock, 1894 is one of the most diverse genera within the family Harpagophoridae in Southeast Asia. The Thyropygus opinatus subgroup, belonging to the T. allevatus group, is distinguished by the presence of an additional projection on the anterior coxal fold. Here, we describe a new species of the T. opinatus subgroup, Thyropygus payamense sp. nov., from Payam Island, Ranong Province, Thailand, based on morphological and DNA sequence data. The mean interspecific COI divergence between the new species and other Thyropygus species is 0.13 ± 0.02 (range: 0.07–0.16). The new species is distinguished by (1) a small, slender, pointed spine at base of femoral spine, (2) a short, triangular mesal process of the anterior coxal fold, and (3) a short, slender, slightly mesad-curving tibial spine. Additionally, T. peninsularis Hoffman, 1982 is confirmed as a member of the T. opinatus subgroup, because it shares key gonopodal characters with other species in this subgroup, while COI and 16S rRNA sequence data firmly support this new classification, with a mean interspecific COI sequence divergence of 0.13 ± 0.03 (range: 0.07–0.17) from other species in the T. allevatus group. An identification key for all 29 species in the T. opinatus subgroup is provided. Further research is needed to assess the taxonomic status of, and phylogenetic relationships within, this subgroup, which, except for two species, may tentatively represent an endemic species radiation in the peninsular area of Thailand, Malaysia and Myanmar. creator: Piyatida Pimvichai creator: Henrik Enghoff creator: Karin Breugelmans creator: Brigitte Segers creator: Thierry Backeljau uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19277 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Pimvichai et al. title: Interferon-gamma and interleukin-10 genetic polymorphisms among the pulmonary tuberculosis caused by Malaysia-specific Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain: SIT745/EAI1-MYS link: https://peerj.com/articles/19576 last-modified: 2025-06-05 description: BackgroundMycobacterium tuberculosis is the causative agent of tuberculosis, which results in 1.5 million global deaths annually. Key factors influencing tuberculosis development encompass host genetic factors, genetic diversity within M. tuberculosis, and environmental conditions. The East-African-Indian (EAI) lineage is the predominant lineage in Southeast Asia, India, and East Africa. A recent finding has identified SIT745/EAI1-MYS, a sub-lineage of EAI, as the geographically specific M. tuberculosis strain in Malaysia.MethodsThis study aimed to investigate the role of IFN-γ (+874) A/T and IL-10 (−1,082) A/G SNPs with tuberculosis (TB) disease susceptibility among patients infected with M. tuberculosis SIT745/EAI1-MYS strain. A cross-sectional study was conducted between three groups of subjects consisted of TB patients infected with M. tuberculosis SIT745/EAI1-MYS strain (n = 9), TB patients of non-M. tuberculosis SIT745/EAI1-MYS strains (n = 9), and healthy controls (n = 9). The genetic variation in IFN-γ (+874) A/T and IL-10 (−1,082) A/G SNPs were detected using allele-specific PCR and analyzed for their association with TB risk and severity.ResultsThe results indicated a higher frequency of the IFN-γ (+874) TT and IL-10 (−1,082) AG genotypes among TB patients compared to healthy controls. The IFN-γ (+874) AA and IL-10 (−1,082) AG genotypes were more prevalent among TB patients infected with the SIT745/EAI1-MYS M. tuberculosis strains compared to non-SIT745/EAI1-MYS, indicating a possible link between these genotypes and more severe TB symptoms. Although there is no significant correlation between the IFN-γ (+874) A/T and IL-10 (−1,082) A/G polymorphisms with the susceptibility or severity of TB due to the small sample size, this initial strain-specific association could suggest that genetic factors may interact with particular M. tuberculosis strains to influence disease severity. creator: Nik Mohd Noor Nik Zuraina creator: Nur Annisa Nasuha Mohd Sedi creator: Mohammed Dauda Goni creator: Suharni Mohamad creator: Mohd Nor Norazmi creator: Siti Suraiya uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19576 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Nik Zuraina et al. title: Neural mechanism of dopamine modulating singing related behavior in songbirds: an updated review link: https://peerj.com/articles/19500 last-modified: 2025-06-05 description: Similar to human language, songbird singing is a complex motor skill learning behavior that is regulated by an interconnected network of neural nuclei in the brain. This network of nuclei demonstrates structural homology with human vocal control-related brain regions and shares common regulatory mechanisms for vocal learning. As an important neurotransmitter, dopamine plays a key role in the learning and maintenance of songbirds’ singing behavior. Studies have demonstrated that the dopaminergic system plays a critical role in regulating the plasticity of singing via the midbrain dopamine pathway, which projects to the song control circuit. Novel experimental techniques, such as optogenetic circuit manipulation and neural activity monitoring, have significantly advanced our understanding of the cellular and synaptic mechanisms underlying vocalization behavior of dopamine effects. This review offers an updated insight into the neural mechanisms by which dopamine modulates singing-related behavior, along with future prospects for utilizing dopamine in the treatment of speech-related disorders. creator: Linghua Zhong creator: Weiting Li creator: Mengjiao Liu creator: Wei Sun creator: Zhibin Liu creator: Songhua Wang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19500 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zhong et al. title: Individual and demographic responses of the palm Brahea aculeata to browsing and leaf harvesting in a tropical dry forest of Northwestern Mexico link: https://peerj.com/articles/19266 last-modified: 2025-06-05 description: BackgroundThe leaves of many palm species represent important non-timber forest products (NTFPs), which may be intensively harvested by local people in many tropical areas. Additionally, in some regions livestock graze in natural forests, and they may browse on palm leaves, especially during the dry season. Thus, harvesting and browsing can result in the loss of leaf area of individual palms, which may alter functional traits of individuals and change demographic patterns of populations. Currently, there are few studies that analyze the effects of multiple disturbances on these traits. The goals of this study were to evaluate the effects of browsing, leaf harvesting and the interaction between these two factors on individual traits and demographic patterns of the Brahea aculeata palm in northwestern Mexico.MethodsA browsing and leaf harvesting experiment was conducted on natural populations of the species. Individuals were subjected to different harvesting intensities and the presence or absence of cattle. Annual censuses were conducted from 2011 to 2014, and individual traits (leaf length, petiole length, and leaf production) and vital rates were monitored.ResultsAt the individual level, the analyzed traits mostly increased as function of leaf harvest and browing, especially during the first two years. Palms experiencing leaf harvesting and browsing had 1.5 to 6.0 times higher levels of leaf production than control palms, especially juveniles and small adults. At the demographic level, the effects of browsing and leaf harvest were low or null, since survival was not affected by them. Browsing positively affected the growth of B. aculeata individuals in the first 2 years, while leaf harvesting had a negative effect in year three. There was a positive relationship between the probability of reproduction and leaf harvest; however, high leaf harvest resulted in two to three times fewer fruits produced. After 3 years of experimental management, multiple of the analyzed attributes decreased, suggesting that B. aculeata changed patterns of resource allocation. Based on our results, B. aculeata can be considered a species that tolerates high levels of defoliation and browsing for 2 years, but not likely longer. This study contributes basic ecological information useful for the conservation and management of B. aculeata, but overall it also highlights that different anthropogenic activities may act as drivers affecting the functional response and demography of NTFP species and they should be considered for the long-term integral management of these species. creator: Franceli Macedo-Santana creator: Christa Horn creator: Tamara Ticktin creator: María Teresa Pulido Silva creator: Bryan A. Endress creator: Leonel Lopez-Toledo uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19266 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Macedo-Santana et al. title: Advancing anesthesiology trainee proficiency in airway management via simulation-based training: a non-hypoxic apnea duration approach link: https://peerj.com/articles/19555 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: BackgroundEffective airway management training for anesthesiology trainees remains crucial for patient safety. While simulation-based education has shown promise, incorporating physiological parameters into training scenarios could enhance learning outcomes.ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of incorporating non-hypoxic apnea duration awareness in simulation-based airway management education for anesthesiology trainees.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study (ChiCTR2200065877) was conducted at Shanghai General Hospital from December 2022 to March 2023. Thirty anesthesiology undergraduates were randomly assigned to either an intervention group, which received non-hypoxic apnea duration information, or a conventional training group. Performance was assessed using a modified Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) score and a satisfaction questionnaire. The intervention group was provided with specific non-hypoxic apnea duration data (247 s until SpO2 reached 90%) during simulated difficult airway scenarios.ResultsThe intervention group demonstrated significantly higher modified DOPS scores (51.4 ± 4.4 vs. 43.0 ± 5.4, P < .001) and satisfaction scores (45.0 ± 1.4 vs. 43.1 ±  2.0, P = .005). Notable improvements were observed in pre-anesthesia preparation (P = 0.028), difficult airway management (P < 0.001), and crisis response (P < 0.001). These findings suggest that incorporating non-hypoxic apnea duration awareness enhances clinical skills and trainee satisfaction.ConclusionsIncorporating non-hypoxic apnea duration awareness into simulation-based airway management training significantly enhances both clinical skills and trainee satisfaction. This approach shows promise for improving critical aspects of airway management education. creator: Lijun Tang creator: Yi Zhang creator: Lianhua Chen creator: Jinbao Li creator: Shiwei Huang creator: Bin Fang creator: Xiaojing Huang creator: Lina Huang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19555 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Tang et al. title: Associations of the volume and proportion of vigorous-intensity physical activity with all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/19538 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: ObjectiveThis study aims to systematically investigate the associations of varying volumes of vigorous-intensity physical activity (VPA) and its proportion to moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) with all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer mortality.MethodsThe review was registered in the PROSPERO (CRD42024525067). Web of Science, Embase, and PubMed were searched from inception to March 22, 2024. Empirical studies that investigated the effects of VPA compared to light-to-moderate intensity physical activities (LMPA) on all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality were included. Additionally, studies that reported the effects of the proportion of VPA (relative to MVPA) on these mortality risks were also included.ResultsIn total, 20 studies were included in the analyses. A curvilinear inverse dose-response relationship was observed between the volume of VPA and all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality. Engaging in 180 minutes of VPA per week was associated with a substantial reduction in mortality risk: 22% for all-cause mortality, 23% for CVD mortality, and 14% for cancer mortality, compared to LMPA. Further increases in VPA volume yielded only modest additional benefits. Furthermore, a U-shaped inverse dose-response relationship was observed between the proportion of VPA (relative to MVPA) and all-cause as well as CVD mortality. Compared to 0% VPA, a 37.5% VPA (relative to MVPA) was associated with the greatest reduction in all-cause mortality (HR = 0.90, 95% CI [0.88–0.93]) and CVD mortality (HR = 0.88, 95% CI [0.83–0.94]) risk, and the size of the reduction remained stable when VPA constituted 30–60% of MVPA.ConclusionEngaging in more than 180 minutes of VPA per week is associated with a substantial reduction in risks of all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality. Maintaining VPA at 30-60% of total MVPA appears to be associated with maximal reduction in all-cause and CVD mortality risks. creator: Dechao Wang creator: Lina Wu creator: Lixue Yan creator: Huan Yang creator: Xiaoli Huang creator: Zongping Wang creator: Yanfei Guan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19538 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Wang et al. title: Untargeted metabolomic analyses of fermented unpolished black rice with melanogenesis inhibition activity link: https://peerj.com/articles/19533 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: Fermentation of rice can enhance the release of bioactive ingredients and generate diverse microbial metabolites contributing to various functional properties. Previous studies have demonstrated that the mixture of selected microorganisms called “De-E11 starter,” comprised of Rhizopus oryzae, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Saccharomycopsis fibuligera and Pediococcus pentosaceus yields fermented unpolished black rice sap (FUBRS) with a melanogenesis inhibition activity. To further understand this fermentation process, we characterized FUBRS and profiled its metabolite composition in comparison to unfermented unpolished black rice (Un-FR), recognizing the substantial enzymatic activity of FUBRS microorganisms and their potential for extensive metabolite production. The results indicated that fermentation decreased the pH, increased total acid content and elevated reducing sugar content. Moreover, significant alterations in phytochemical profiles were observed in FUBRS. In terms of biological activity, fermentation significantly enhanced antioxidant and tyrosinase/melanogenesis inhibitory activities. Untargeted metabolomic analysis utilizing orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed a clear differentiation in metabolite profiles between FUBRS and Un-FR. Volcano plot analysis (≥2-fold change) indicated a general increase in metabolites, including sugars, phenolic acids, organic acids, and fatty acids, after fermentation. Quantitative analysis confirmed the accumulation of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, lactic acid, acetic acid, and succinic acid, that are all known melanogenesis inhibitors. This study provides valuable insights into the characteristics and metabolite profile of FUBRS, and informing strategies for optimizing the fermentation processes to enhance the production of melanogenesis and tyrosinase inhibitory compounds, and identifying key metabolites as critical biomarkers for monitoring and controlling these processes. Together, they will facilitate the efficient and reproducible generation of high-efficacy ingredients for the cosmetic, nutraceutical, and potentially pharmaceutical industries. creator: Orrarat Sangkaew creator: Suttida Kaenboot creator: Thumnoon Nhujak creator: Chadin Kulsing creator: Nuttanee Tungkijanansin creator: Sittiruk Roytrakul creator: Chulee Yompakdee uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19533 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Sangkaew et al. title: Unveiling phenolic content, antibacterial, and antibiofilm potential of sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) seed shell extracts against Staphylococcus aureus link: https://peerj.com/articles/19524 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: Sacha inchi (SI) seeds are renowned for their high oil content, with omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids accounting for approximately 85% of the total fatty acids. However, the use of seed by-products has not received much attention in research. The objective of the current study was to assess the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of SI seed shells. The antioxidant potential, along with the total phenolic, flavonoid, and procyanidin content of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The ethanolic SI seed shell extract exerted the strongest antioxidant potential, likely due to its higher phenolic and procyanidin content. The antibacterial potency evaluation of extracts towards S. aureus (ATCC29213), S. aureus (clinical) isolate and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) demonstrated that the ethanolic extract of SI seed shell possessed significant efficacy. The mean growth inhibition zones of ethanolic extract against tested bacterial strains of S. aureus were ≥ 17.23 ± 0.42 with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 250 µg/mL. The time-kill showed the bactericidal effect of ethanolic extract on Gram-positive bacteria, which was demonstrated by the time-kill assay. After ≤ 8 hrs post-inoculation, the mean log reductions in viable bacterial cell counts ranged from 9.37 Log10 to 4.37 log10 CFU/mL for S. aureus (ATCC29213), 9.146 Log10 to 4.124 Log10 CFU/mL for S. aureus (clinical) and 9.367 Log10 to 4.221 Log10 CFU/mL. Also, the ethanol extract exhibited notable potential in reducing biofilm formation and membrane-disruptive properties. Thus, it appears that ethanolic extract of SI seed shells can be potentially used as an excellent source of antioxidants and has antibacterial qualities against certain harmful bacteria that cause infection in the upper respiratory tract and skin. creator: Gadah A. Al-Hamoud creator: Musarat Amina creator: Reem Hamoud Alrashoudi creator: Ayesha Mateen creator: Farah Maqsood creator: Hanan M. Al-Yousef uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19524 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Al-Hamoud et al. title: Metal artifact reduction combined with deep learning image reconstruction algorithm for CT image quality optimization: a phantom study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19516 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: BackgroundAiming to evaluate the effects of the smart metal artifact reduction (MAR) algorithm and combinations of various scanning parameters, including radiation dose levels, tube voltage, and reconstruction algorithms, on metal artifact reduction and overall image quality, to identify the optimal protocol for clinical application.MethodsA phantom with a pacemaker was examined using standard dose (effective dose (ED): 3 mSv) and low dose (ED: 0.5 mSv), with three scan voltages (70, 100, and 120 kVp) selected for each dose. Raw data were reconstructed using 50% adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-V (ASIR-V), ASIR-V with MAR, high-strength deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR-H), and DLIR-H with MAR. Quantitative analyses (artifact index (AI), noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of artifact-impaired pulmonary nodules (PNs), and noise power spectrum (NPS) of artifact-free regions) and qualitative evaluation were performed.ResultsQuantitatively, the deep learning image recognition (DLIR) algorithm or high tube voltages exhibited lower noise compared to the ASIR-V or low tube voltages (p < 0.001). AI of images with MAR or high tube voltages was significantly lower than that of images without MAR or low tube voltages (p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed in AI between low-dose images with 120 kVp DLIR-H MAR and standard-dose images with 70 kVp ASIR-V MAR (p = 0.143). Only the 70 kVp 3 mSv protocol demonstrated statistically significant differences in SNR for artifact-impaired PNs (p = 0.041). The fpeak and favg values were similar across various scenarios, indicating that the MAR algorithm did not alter the image texture in artifact-free regions. The qualitative results of the extent of metal artifacts, the confidence in diagnosing artifact-impaired PNs, and the overall image quality were generally consistent with the quantitative results.ConclusionThe MAR algorithm combined with DLIR-H can reduce metal artifacts and enhance the overall image quality, particularly at high kVp tube voltages. creator: Huachun Zou creator: Zonghuo Wang creator: Mengya Guo creator: Kun Peng creator: Jian Zhou creator: Lili Zhou creator: Bing Fan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19516 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Zou et al. title: Knowledge attitude, and practice of patients with knee osteoarthritis towards perioperative functional exercise after total knee arthroplasty: a cross-sectional study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19511 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: BackgroundTo investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) towards perioperative functional exercise after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).MethodsThe cross-sectional survey enrolled knee OA patients in two tertiary public hospitals at Shandong Province between September 2023 and January 2024. Demographic characteristics, KAP scores, and Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) scores were gathered via a self-made questionnaires.ResultsA total of 583 valid questionnaires were collected, 65.01% were females and 48.89% over 65. The average scores of knowledge, attitude, practice and TSK were 11.17 ± 4.31 (possible range: 0–16), 21.78 ± 2.57 (possible range: 6–30), 35.44 ± 5.80 (possible range: 9–45), and 39.21 ± 10.75 (possible range: 17–68), respectively. Spearman correlation analysis showed positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.3406, p < 0.001), attitude and practice (r = 0.3464, p < 0.001), attitude and practice (r = 0.6390, p < 0.001), negative correlation between TSK and knowledge (r = −0.3663, p < 0.001), attitude (r = −0.2937, p < 0.001), and practice (r = −0.3970, p < 0.001), respectively. Path analysis found that attitude, underlying diseases, occupation, total knee arthroplasty had direct effects on practice. Knowledge, age, education level, residence, diagnosis time, marital status had indirect effects on practice. Total knee arthroplasty had direct and indirect effects on practice (all p < 0.05).ConclusionsWhile most patients held a positive attitude and practice, concerns and misconceptions regarding perioperative exercises emerged as urgent issues. It is imperative to implement targeted interventions to enhance adherence by addressing factors influencing KAP. creator: Houxi Li creator: Qingqing Su creator: Lei Qin creator: Qi Li creator: Yake Li creator: Chunyan Wang creator: Houxia Zhu creator: Haiyan Li uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19511 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Li et al. title: Associations between maternal glycemic level and lipid profile and adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a retrospective study from China link: https://peerj.com/articles/19502 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: PurposeTo investigate the associations between maternal glucose and lipid metabolism and adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsA retrospective cohort of pregnant women with T2DM who delivered at Peking University First Hospital was included. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify risk factors. ROC curves were applied to determine optimal cut-off points for predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes.ResultsA total of 398 pairs of pregnant women and newborns from 2019 to 2023 were included. The key complications included large-for-gestational-age (LGA, 21.6%), preeclampsia (PE, 14.3%), preterm birth (14.3%) and birth defects (11.6%). The achievement rates for both glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and lipid levels in early pregnancy were approximately 50%. HbA1c in the third trimester was significantly associated with increased birth weight (for LGA, aOR = 3.819, 95% CI [1.534–9.509]). Elevated triglyceride (TG) in early pregnancy were critical risk factors for LGA, PE, and preterm birth (aOR = 2.627, 2.478, 2.233; all p < 0.05). The optimal cut-off point for third-trimester HbA1c predicting LGA was ≤5.95%. The optimal cut-off points for first-trimester TG predicting LGA, PE, and preterm birth were separately ≤1.51, ≤1.67, and ≤1.46 mmol/L.ConclusionsIn Chinese pregnant women with T2DM, elevated plasma glucose and lipid levels at different pregnancy stages were independently linked to adverse outcomes, especially third-trimester HbA1c and first-trimester TG. TG level in early pregnancy lower than currently recommended may be beneficial to improve adverse outcomes. creator: Yiwei Xue creator: Juan Juan creator: Xinyu Shu creator: Yilin He creator: Kefan Cao creator: Xin Kang creator: Hongli Huang creator: Huixia Yang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19502 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: ©2025 Xue et al. title: Effects of judo-specific intermittent training on lower-limb impulse and specific performance in judokas link: https://peerj.com/articles/19491 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: Intermittent training (IT) has been shown to enhance athletic performance by improving aerobic and anaerobic capacities, neuromuscular efficiency, and recovery key factors for judokas given the intermittent nature of judo combat. This study investigated the effects of a six-week judo-specific intermittent training program on body composition (body mass (BM); percent body fat (PBF); skeletal muscle mass (SMM)), grip strength, lower-limb impulse (countermovement jump, (CMJ)) (relative force peak (RFP)), relative force peak (RFP), reactive strength index-modified (RSImod), jump height (JH), time to takeoff (TTT)), and specialized performance (special judo fitness test, (SJFT)) (SJFT series A, SJFT series B, SJFT series C, SJFT total number of throws, SJFT post-exercise heart rate, SJFT one-minute post-exercise heart rate), with two primary objectives: (1) incorporating uchikomi + ippon seoi-nage (Tori group) as part of the training intervention and (2) examining the impact of serving as sparring partners through mae-ukemi (Uke group) on performance outcomes. Thirty male judo athletes (all black belt) were randomly assigned to the Tori (169.90 ± 6.17 cm in stature, 76.67 ± 18.2 kg in mass, 20.64 ± 3.07 years of age and 13.10 ± 2.88 years of experience), Uke (72.36 ± 6.32 cm in stature, 77.28 ± 19.4 kg in mass, 21.73 ± 6.15 years of age and 11.90 ± 1.79 years of experience), and control group (CON) (167.18 ± 4.16 cm in stature, 76.77 ± 13.7 kg in mass, 21.55 ± 5.30 years of age, and 12.00 ± 2.40 years of experience) (n = 10 per group). The intermittent training sessions were held twice weekly (Tuesday and Thursday) at 2:00 PM, with a 24-hour recovery between sessions. Participants were paired by body weight (≤10% difference). Training included two blocks of six 20-second sets, with 20-second passive rest intervals, totaling 8 minutes per session. The results showed a significant time effect (p < 0.01) in the special judo fitness index, along with a time × group interaction (F = 5.44; p = 0.01; η2 = 0.28). Post hoc comparisons revealed that the Tori group’s improvement was significantly greater than that of the other two groups (Tori: p < 0.01; Uke: p = 0.58; CON: p = 0.78). For CMJ parameters (RFP, JH, RSImod), although a significant time effect was observed, no interaction effects were found for any parameter. In terms of body composition and grip strength, neither a time effect nor an interaction effect was present. Additionally, the Uke group, while serving as sparring partners, had no negative impact on any variables examined in this study. Judo-specific intermittent training can significantly enhance SJFT, making it an effective training method. While CMJ parameters showed a time effect, intermittent training alone may not fully improve lower-limb impulse. Additionally, during sport-specific intermittent training, serving as a sparring partner does not negatively impact performance, allowing safe integration into training programs. creator: Pi-Yen Ho creator: Hung-Chih Yeh creator: Fang Li creator: Chia-An Ho creator: Cheng-Pang Yang creator: Ying-Chen Kuo creator: Chih-Wen Hsu creator: Chin-Shan Ho uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19491 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Ho et al. title: Association between the expression difference of cortisol in umbilical cord blood and discordant growth in dichorionic twins: a cross-sectional survey link: https://peerj.com/articles/19479 last-modified: 2025-06-04 description: BackgroundThis study aimed to assess whether the expression difference of cortisol in umbilical cord blood is associated with dichorionic twin inconsistent growth.MethodsThis research included 108 patients with dichorionic twin pregnancy delivered at Jiaxing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital between January 2021 and December 2024. Depending on whether or not they had twin inconsistent growth, participants were classified into the discordant twins (DT) group (47 pairs of discordant twins) as the experimental group and the concordant twins (CT) group (61 pairs of concordant twins) as the control group. According to the medical record, the maternal and neonatal information of the two groups were collected, and the differences in the basic conditions between the two groups of maternal and twin fetuses were analyzed. The fetal birth weight of the two groups was weighed, and the cortisol content of the umbilical cord blood was measured by chemiluminescence.ResultsThere were no significant differences in maternal age, gestational age (GA), parity, body and mass index (BMI), mode of conception, delivery time, and fetal gender between the two groups of maternal characteristics. There were also no significant differences in the amniotic fluid depth, umbilical artery standard deviation (SD) value, umbilical cord entanglement, placental shape, and twin gender differences between the two groups of neonates. However, the smaller neonates in the DT group had a higher cortisol level in the umbilical cord blood, with a significant difference, while there was no significant difference in cortisol levels in the umbilical cord blood of the CT group of twin fetuses.ConclusionsThe difference in cortisol levels in the umbilical cord blood of twin fetuses may be related to the occurrence of inconsistent growth of dichorionic twins. creator: Yimin Huang creator: Hui Zhu creator: Yi Li creator: Jianguo Wang creator: Li Ni uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19479 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Huang et al. title: Early detection of Cercospora beticola and powdery mildew diseases in sugar beet using uncrewed aerial vehicle-based remote sensing and machine learning link: https://peerj.com/articles/19530 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: BackgroundAgricultural production is crucial for nutrition, but it frequently faces challenges such as decreased yield, quality, and overall output due to the adverse effects of diseases and pests. Remote sensing technologies have emerged as valuable tools for diagnosing and monitoring these issues. They offer significant advantages over traditional methods, which are often time-consuming and limited in sampling. High-resolution images from drones and satellites provide fast and accurate solutions for detecting and diagnosing crops’ health and identifying pests and diseases affecting them.MethodsThe research focused on the early detection of Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora beticola Sacc.) and powdery mildew (Erysiphe betae (Vaňha) Weltzien), which cause significant economic losses in sugar beet before visible symptoms emerge. The study was accomplished by capturing images of uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) in field conditions. To effectively evaluate different detection methods in agricultural contexts, the study targeted two key areas: (1) monitoring Cercospora in fields without pesticide application, utilizing the Metos climate station early warning system alongside UAV-based image analysis, and (2) monitoring powdery mildew, which involved visual disease detection and targeted spraying based on UAV image processing. Trial plots were established for this purpose, with six replications for each method.ResultsUAV-based images show that Normalized Difference Vegetation Index values in leaves decreased before disease onset. This change is an important warning sign for the emergence of the disease. Additionally, the study demonstrated that early detection of diseases is possible using K-nearest neighbors and logistic regression algorithms, exhibiting high discrimination and predictive accuracy. creator: Koç Mehmet Tuğrul creator: Rıza Kaya creator: Kemal Özkan creator: Merve Ceyhan creator: Uğur Gürel creator: Fatih Yavuz Fidantemiz uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19530 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Tuğrul et al. title: Assessment of the fecundity of deep-sea corals in southeastern Brazil link: https://peerj.com/articles/19525 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: Deep-sea corals have been facing several anthropogenic threats worldwide, making it increasingly important that studies better understand their reproductive biology and associated cycles. This study described the fecundity of the main habitat-building scleractinian species in three sedimentary basins of southeastern Brazil in two pre-determined periods over 2 years. These basins are responsible for the most significant oil and gas production on the Brazilian coast. The relation between the number of gametes and the size of the individuals’ polyps determines their fecundity. Madrepora oculata, Solenosmilia variabilis, Desmophyllum pertusum (formerly Lophelia pertusa), and Enallopsammia rostrata samples were obtained in 2016 and 2017 and histologically prepared to estimate the reproductive effort of these species. Each oocyte development stage was classified and counted to evaluate the reproduction strategies of each species. A single D. pertusum polyp (collected in May 2017) showed over 241 thousand oocytes and a 167.9 oocytes/mm3 fecundity, typical of periodic reproduction. S. variabilis had the highest average fecundity (53.6 ± 10.7 oocytes/mm3) of the species with a continuous gametogenic cycle. M. oculata showed 23.5 ± 7.03 oocytes/mm3, whereas E. rostrata had the lowest fecundity (3.1 ± 0.7 oocytes/mm3). Fecundity is inversely proportional to oocyte size, and E. rostrata showed the largest oocytes (900 μm), a result aligned with previous studies. Considering the entire sample, the Espírito Santo Basin was the most productive due to its highest average fecundity (followed by the Santos and the Campos Basins) and greatest number of female samples. Notably, 2017 showed the highest average fecundity. The reproductive strategies of organisms play an important role in the ability of species to respond to selective pressures since gamete production (especially oocytes) is energetically expensive and strongly sensitive to environmental conditions. Thus, this study contributes to refining the available data about the life history and resilience strategies of deep-water corals, providing scientific information to manage and conserve these deep-sea ecosystems. creator: Nathália Bastos creator: Carolina Siqueira Safra Terra creator: Márcio Alves Siqueira creator: Lourença Helena de Oliveira Vieira creator: Caio de Lima Mota creator: Halesio Milton Correa de Barros Neto creator: Guarani de Hollanda Cavalcanti creator: Ricardo Coutinho uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19525 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2025 Bastos et al. title: Optimizing muscle mass and function in advanced lung cancer patients: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial protocol using High Eicosapentaenoic acid and PROtein (HEPRO) to modulate epigenetics, reduce toxicity and improve gut microbiota link: https://peerj.com/articles/19506 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: BackgroundLung cancer is strongly associated with malnutrition and detrimental changes in muscle mass (MM), which can lead to reduced quality of life and reduced tolerance to and efficacy of antineoplastic treatment. The loss of MM and myosteatosis (fat infiltration into muscle) have been linked to inflammation in cancer, and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) found in fish oil are known to modulate inflammatory response, lean mass, microbiota, and epigenetic mechanisms.MethodsHigh Eicosapentaenoic acid and PROtein (HEPRO) is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 50 patients over 20 years of age diagnosed with stage III or IV non-small cell lung cancer with an ECOG performance status of 0–2 who are eligible for systemic treatment will be included and randomized 1:1 into two treatment arms: four fish oil capsules containing 2,100 mg EPA and 924 mg DHA per day versus four placebo capsules containing 2,250 mg oleic acid per day for 4 months. All patients will be instructed to consume 1.5 g protein per kg body weight per day and receive protein supplementation if necessary. MM, myosteatosis, muscle function, handgrip strength, dietary assessment, toxicity, response to treatment, and survival will be assessed. Translational research includes membrane phospholipid composition, gut microbiota, inflammation, and miRNA. MicroRNA will be analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, phospholipids, by gas chromatography, and microbiota, by 16S ribosomal RNA genetic sequencing. Statistical analysis will be conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics V.26 and a multiple regression model will be proposed. Associations with p < 0.05 will be considered significant.ConclusionsThe HEPRO study aims to evaluate a viable dietary intervention strategy to improve MM and function in patients with lung cancer. creator: Imanuely Borchardt creator: Carla Prado creator: Tatiane Montella creator: Gisele Fraga Moreira creator: Gisele Farias creator: Marina Xavier Reis creator: Fernanda Taveira creator: Fernanda Carneiro Dias creator: Pedro De Marchi creator: Alberto Davalos creator: Carolina Alves Costa Silva creator: Carlos GilMoreira Ferreira creator: Andreia Melo creator: Wilza Peres uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19506 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: ©2025 Borchardt et al. title: The effect of the Buteyko breathing technique on asthma control and quality of life in children with asthma aged 7–12 years: a randomized controlled study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19467 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: PurposeThis study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Buteyko breathing technique in improving asthma control and quality of life in children aged 7–12 years. Given the increasing demand for alternative asthma treatments, this study aims to address the gap in evidence regarding the Buteyko breathing technique, thereby advancing clinical management of pediatric asthma.MethodThis study employed a randomized controlled design to evaluate the effectiveness of the Buteyko breathing technique in children with asthma. The study cohort consisted of 65 pediatric patients with asthma, who were receiving treatment at the Paediatric Allergy and Immunology Polyclinic. Thirty-three participants were assigned to the experimental group in which Buteyko breathing technique was applied in addition to standard asthma treatment and 32 participants were assigned to the control group in which standard asthma treatment was applied. The primary endpoints of this study were the patients’ asthma control level and quality of life scores.ResultsPatients in the experimental group showed a statistically significant improvement in asthma control and quality of life with the Buteyko breathing technique (p < 0.05). A large effect size was observed for asthma control (d = 3.54) and quality of life (d = 12.08). The post-test asthma control scores of the experimental group were statistically significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05; d = 3.65).ConclusionChildren often have difficulty in asthma management due to difficulties in inhaler use. In this study, the Buteyko breathing technique was found to be effective in improving asthma control and quality of life in paediatric patients. creator: Hakan Çelik creator: Emel Yuruk uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19467 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Çelik and Yuruk title: Knowledge, perceptions, and practices of dental professionals and students regarding obturation in endodontic procedures: a nationwide cross-sectional survey link: https://peerj.com/articles/19455 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to analyze dental professionals’ and students’ current understanding, attitudes, and usage of obturation trends in endodontic management.MethodsA national cross-sectional survey of 422 dental professionals and students was carried out using a structured questionnaire The questionnaire included 34 multiple-choice questions concerning demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices relevant to endodontic obturation. A combination of convenience and snowball sampling was used to recruit participants. The study applied descriptive statistics and the chi-square test of proportion with a significance threshold of p < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval for analysis to assess the participants’ comprehension, attitudes, and use of obturation procedures.ResultsThe study comprised 422 participants, the majority of whom were females (68.0%) with an average age of 24.55 ± 3.31 years. Final-year students, interns, postgraduate students, dentistry faculty, and private practitioners were among those who took part. The majority of respondents (91.2%) correctly identified the goal of root canal obturation and identified Gutta Percha and Sealer as the standard obturation material (98.8%). Obturation has a significance in root canal treatment results, according to 81.0% of respondents. 64.5% were willing to explore new obturation methods, and 72.0% said they would use newer obturation materials or equipment if it was advantageous. In routine, lateral compaction was the primary obturation technique (73.2%), with just 4.0% using a rubber dam on a regular basis. Only a small percentage (11.1%) were happy with the present efficiency and predictability of obturation procedures, whereas 58.8% noted occasional difficulties in attaining proper root canal obturation. Documentation methods were subpar, with 43.6% regularly noting obturation techniques and materials in patients’ records. A sizable proportion (58.5%) underwent retreatment operations for unsuccessful obturations, highlighting the need for improved obturation outcomes. Bioceramic sealer use and comprehension varied greatly (11.1% utilized it).ConclusionsIn conclusion, this study emphasizes the need of better knowledge and application of obturation trends in endodontics. Key findings include a desire for better materials, an understanding of the importance of obturation, and an openness to new ideas. The difficulties in getting optimal results underline the need of standardized education. creator: Kalyani Garde creator: Ajinkya M. Pawar creator: Anuj Bhardwaj creator: Jatin Atram creator: Suraj Arora creator: Dian Agustin Wahjuningrum creator: Maria Febritania Wahyuni Huri creator: Dennys Kurnia uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19455 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Garde et al. title: Proteomic profiling of the human amniotic stem cell-highly abundant secreted proteins link: https://peerj.com/articles/19449 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: Amnion-derived stem cells exhibit several significant advantages, including low immunogenicity, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and angiogenic properties, which have garnered considerable attention as a potential source for cell therapy. Numerous studies have demonstrated that proteins secreted by amniotic stem cells play a crucial role in facilitating regenerative processes and reflect the therapeutic benefits across various diseases. Secreted protein products from stem cells offer solutions to challenges in cell therapy, such as improving efficacy during in situ or intravenous administration. These products also hold significant clinical and commercial potential. Nonetheless, the establishment of stringent quality control standards for secreted proteins from both amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) and amniotic epithelial cells (AECs) continues to pose a significant challenge. In this study, the expression profiles of secreted proteins from AMSCs and AECs were comprehensively analyzed utilizing mass spectrometry-based proteomics. The 71 highly abundant proteins and their potential biological functions were further investigated. Moreover, we identified and confirmed 17 hub proteins. Notably, ANXA2 was observed to enhance the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in macrophages. These findings may inform quality control measures for secreted protein products derived from amniotic stem cells and provide valuable insights for future research on the functional aspects of the secreted proteome in amniotic stem cells. creator: Dan He creator: Yuqiang Cheng creator: Hongkai Lv creator: Anqi Geng creator: Jie Zheng creator: Lin Dang creator: Pengfei Li uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19449 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 He et al. title: A new origin of the ‘modern’ lungfish dentition revealed by taxonomic overlap between Devonian and Carboniferous dipnoans link: https://peerj.com/articles/19389 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: Lungfishes (Dipnoi, Sarcopterygii) initially radiated in the Early Devonian, and reached the apogee of their diversity during this period, especially with regard to their dentitions. Following the end-Devonian extinction, most of this diversity was lost and remained low throughout the Carboniferous and the rest of the Palaeozoic, mainly represented by the incredibly successful ‘Sagenodus-like’ dental morphology with sharp rows of fused teeth. Nevertheless, the exact scenario of lungfish evolution across the Devonian-Carboniferous boundary remains ambiguous. Recent work on new dipnoan assemblages from the Famennian (Upper Devonian) and Tournaisian (Lower Carboniferous) has challenged our understanding of lungfish evolution across this boundary. These studies suggest that the end-Devonian extinction did not impact lungfishes as strongly as other sarcopterygians, and that many Carboniferous lineages have origins that stretch much further back in time. However, concrete fossil evidence supporting these new hypotheses remained exceedingly rare. Here, we describe a highly derived lungfish tooth plate from the Famennian of the Tafilalt region in Morocco. This specimen’s morphology is akin to that of the Carboniferous genus Sagenodus, often dubbed as the earliest ‘modern’ lungfish. Although the material is not sufficient for a precise taxonomic identification or placement with phylogenetic analyses, it shows that a Carboniferous lineage—the Sagenodontidae—extends deep roots into the Devonian. This specimen supports recently developed ideas about lungfish evolution blurring across the Devonian-Carboniferous boundary and pushes back the origin of the ‘modern’ lungfish dental morphotype by some 20 million years from the Visean to the Famennian. creator: Amin El Fassi El Fehri creator: Alice M. Clement creator: Jorge Mondéjar Fernández creator: Merle Greif creator: Christian Klug uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19389 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 El Fassi El Fehri et al. title: Probiotic potential of bacteria associated with the mangrove epiphytic algae Bostrychia calliptera and Rhizoclonium riparium link: https://peerj.com/articles/19073 last-modified: 2025-06-03 description: The growth of the global population has driven the development of aquaculture as an alternative means of meeting the increasing demand for food. However, this sector faces challenges from pathogen transmission, which can impact both cultured organisms and consumers. Probiotics offer a promising solution by leveraging the antibacterial activity of certain microorganisms against pathogens. Given the limited research on the probiotic potential of microorganisms associated with marine algae, this study aimed to evaluate this potential of bacteria isolated from Bostrychia calliptera and Rhizoclonium riparium, algae from mangroves on the Pacific coast of Colombia. The antibacterial activity of the isolates was evaluated against six fish and shellfish pathogens, leading to the selection of four strains (Bacillus sp. AB08, Bacillus sp. AB17, Bacillus sp. AN35, and Pseudomonas mosselii AR37) as probiotic candidates due to their outstanding inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus. None of the selected strains formed biofilms, a favorable result from a pathogenicity perspective, while Bacillus sp. AB08 and AN35 demonstrated notable susceptibility to all tested antibiotics. Additionally, these two strains exhibited broad tolerance to temperature and pH, maintaining viable counts above 106 CFU/mL, characteristics that position them as promising candidates for use as probiotics. However, further in vitro studies are needed to better define their probiotic properties, along with in vivo evaluations in aquaculture systems to confirm their efficacy and safety. creator: Juliana Martinez-Delgado creator: Neyla Benitez-Campo uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19073 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Martinez-Delgado and Benitez-Campo title: Potential role of photobiomodulation as a prevention and treatment strategy for radiation induced fibrosis: a review of effectiveness and mechanisms link: https://peerj.com/articles/19494 last-modified: 2025-06-02 description: BackgroundRadiation induced fibrosis (RIF) is a chronic progressive disabling side effect of radiation therapy in cancer survivors with limited therapeutic options. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is being propagated as a non-invasive therapeutic option but has limited evidence. This scoping review aims to summarize the effects and mechanisms of PBMT in the prevention and treatment of RIF.MethodsA systematic search was conducted across five databases (PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, ProQuest, LILACS), and three other platforms (Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Academia.edu). Retrieved studies underwent independent title, abstract, full text screening and data extraction. Quality analysis was performed for human studies to assess methodological rigor.ResultsThe review identified three studies that specifically focused on RIF. Since induction of RIF is not common for in vitro and in vivo studies, the screening was expanded to include studies targeting fibroblast cells or fibrosis of any origin. The revised strategy led to inclusion of 26 studies (nine in vitro, 13 in vivo, and four clinical studies). Of these, 20 studies focused on the prevention of fibrosis, while six addressed its treatment. Preclinical studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of PBMT at different phases of fibrosis at cellular level. Clinical studies demonstrated functional improvements. Mechanisms include modulation of inflammatory pathways, fibroblast to myofibroblast conversion, collagen production, reduction of oxidative stress, and regulation of extracellular matrix remodeling.ConclusionPBMT demonstrates potential as a non-invasive, safe therapeutic option for RIF, supported by extensive preclinical evidence. However, high-quality clinical trials are necessary to validate its clinical efficacy.ImplicationPBMT offers a promising intervention for managing RIF, with potential to enhance body image, self-confidence, functional abilities, and overall quality of life for cancer survivors. This review underscores the need for further research to translate these findings into clinical practice. creator: Rachita Gururaj creator: Betty Thomas creator: Manur Gururajachar Janaki creator: Vinay Martin D’sa Prabhu creator: Rakesh Nagaraju creator: Stephen Rajan Samuel creator: Sundar Kumar Veluswamy uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19494 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Gururaj et al. title: Sign language use in healthcare: professionals’ insight link: https://peerj.com/articles/19446 last-modified: 2025-06-02 description: Background and AimCommunication using sign language (SL) between health care providers (HCPs) and deaf and/or hearing-impaired (DHI) patients was reported to be difficult and oftentimes results in a compromised delivery of quality health care to patients. This study surveyed Saudi health care providers on their perception of SL knowledge on the provision of high-quality care to DHI patients.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional descriptive study among HCPs in different health and primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was distributed officially by the Department of Surveys of King Saud University to target HCPs via email and through WhatsApp.ResultsA total of 238 HCPs were included in the study, of whom 180 (75.6%) were nursing professionals and 58 were from other health specialties. Only 15 (6.3%) of HCPs claimed to have received formal training in SL. Majority of the HCPs (n = 165, 69.3%) perceived that knowledge in SL is very important for communication with DHI patients and their families, whereas 65 (27.3%) perceived SL as somewhat important. Nurses believed that the quality of health service and care to deaf and/or hearing-impaired (DHI) patients is impacted by the inability of HCPs to communicate effectively and deliver high-quality care without the knowledge. Nursing professionals believed that knowledge of SL will improve the quality of care provided to DHI patients compared to other HCPs (97.2% vs. 87.9%, p = 0.005).ConclusionIn order to provide DHI patients with high-quality healthcare, nurses believe that understanding SL is essential. Few nurses received formal training and few have adequate knowledge in SL. There is a need to provide nurses and HCPs adequate training in SL to improve communication with DHI patients and enhance DHI inclusivity in their management in line with the World Health Organization’s Universal Health Coverage and “health care for all”. creator: Omaimah Qadhi uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19446 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2025 Qadhi title: Children with abnormal body weight dealing with the load of school backpack—is there a need to modify WHO recommendations? A cross sectional study link: https://peerj.com/articles/19353 last-modified: 2025-06-02 description: BackgroundThe purpose of the study was investigated how stabilographic parameters change under the influence of an external load, such as a school backpack, and whether there is a need to revise recommendations regarding the permissible school backpack load for children with abnormal body mass.MethodsChildren in younger school grades was investigated (n, 235, age: X = 7.90 ± 0.74), divided into children with underweight (n = 49), with overweight (n = 48), and with obesity (n = 33), in comparison to the control group with normal body weight (n = 105). Posturographic measurements of body weight distribution and posturometric tests with eyes open and closed were performed in trials with school backpack and without.ResultsThe weight of school backpack for younger children ranges from 1.50 to 8.0 kg (3.74 ± 1.31). On average, this constitutes 13.66% of their body weight (SD, 5.85), but in 77 cases among all participants (32.77%), the children’s school backpacks were overloaded by an average of 5.5% (SD, 4.66). Neither the weight of the school backpack nor its percentage relative to body weight were predictors of postural stability (−0.44 ≥ β ≥ 0.41 for p > 0.05). In tests involving a school backpack, children with obesity performed significantly worse compared to the control group, particularly in the parameters sway path length (SPL), width of the ellipse (WoE), and height of the ellipse (HoE), in both open- and closed-eye conditions. Additionally, SPL was longer in the open-eye test with a school backpack in the overweight group. Children with underweight had results comparable to children with normal body weight.ConclusionsRecommendations regarding the weight of school backpacks relative to a child’s body weight worsen stabilometric parameters in children with increased body weight (overweight and obesity), which affects their postural stability. It is advisable to consider different percentage load values or implement systemic solutions for children with overweight and obesity. creator: Anna Brzęk creator: Regina Wysocka-Bochenek creator: Jacek Sołtys uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.19353 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: ©2025 Brzęk et al.