title: PeerJ description: Articles published in PeerJ link: https://peerj.com/articles/index.rss3?journal=peerj&page=228 creator: info@peerj.com PeerJ errorsTo: info@peerj.com PeerJ language: en title: The relationship between allergic rhinitis and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis link: https://peerj.com/articles/18287 last-modified: 2024-10-18 description: BackgroundNumerous investigations have examined the potential link between allergic rhinitis (AR) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, some studies show no association between the two diseases. The connection between these two conditions remains inconclusive. This study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis exploring the correlation between AR and ADHD.MethodsWe conducted systematic searches of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, ERIC, PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases, up to the year 2023. Subsequently, we conducted a meta-analysis using R 4.2.2, where we computed the pooled odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval to assess the relationship between AR and ADHD within studies exhibiting similar characteristics. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated by computing the value using the Cochrane Intervention Manual’s guidelines. Additionally, subgroup analyses were conducted by stratifying the study population according to gender, age, etc. Sensitivity analysis was performed by systematically removing individual studies.ResultsIn this systematic review, we incorporated 12 eligible studies, collectively encompassing a sample size of 530,360 participants. Within the included studies, heterogeneity was observed, and the utilization of a random-effects model demonstrated a noteworthy correlation between children with ADHD and the presence of AR. Similarly, children with AR exhibited a significant correlation with the occurrence of ADHD. We also found some relationships in subgroup analyses.ConclusionA substantial correlation is evident between AR and ADHD in children and adolescents. AR may potentially contribute as a risk factor for the onset of ADHD, and conversely, ADHD may heighten the likelihood of developing AR. creator: Qian Wang creator: Ruikun Wang creator: Mengyao Li creator: Jieqiong Liang creator: Xiaojun Zhan creator: Yingxia Lu creator: Guimin Huang creator: Qinglong Gu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18287 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2024 Wang et al. title: Kinematic characterization of backhand stroke accuracy in squash based on kinematic variables between two different skill levels—a preliminary cross-sectional study link: https://peerj.com/articles/18333 last-modified: 2024-10-18 description: BackgroundThe aim of this study was to compare differences in shot placement and accuracy between national and international level squash players. Squash is a technically demanding sport and understanding the biomechanical characteristics of athletes at different levels is important for developing effective training strategies.MethodsThe study used a three-dimensional motion analysis system, a high-speed video camera, and a professional tee for biomechanical testing. Participants included national and international level squash players. The kinematic characteristics of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints of the upper extremity for backhand strokes, as well as the accuracy of the strokes, were analyzed to compare the differences between the two groups of athletes in terms of stroke posture and accuracy.ResultsThe kinematic analysis of the backward backhand stroke revealed that national squash players showed significant differences compared to international players in several key parameters. Specifically, national players had significantly greater trunk flexion (P = 0.018) and less shoulder medial rotation (P = 0.027). They also had lower racket velocity in the X-direction (P = 0.043). However, there were no significant differences in trunk lateral flexion (P = 0.487), trunk rotation (P = 0.293), shoulder extension/flexion (P = 0.396), elbow flexion/extension (P = 0.818), wrist flexion/extension (P = 0.177), wrist rotation (P = 0.476), racket pitch (P = 0.112), racket velocity in the Y-direction (P = 0.587), or racket velocity in the Z-direction (P = 0.327). Additionally, data for racket yaw, racket roll, and racket Vx were not provided with significant values, indicating that these parameters do not show significant differences.ConclusionInternational level players outperformed national level players in squash stroke accuracy and control. Key kinematic factors influencing accuracy include trunk forward flexion, shoulder abduction, shoulder internal rotation, and racket angles. The study recommends that coaches design training to enhance technical details and positional control to improve squash performance. creator: Rui Huang creator: Haojie Li creator: Jian Jiang creator: Zhitao Zhou creator: Chen Xiu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18333 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2024 Huang et al. title: Effect of alpha-linolenic acid on aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity and RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway in kidney link: https://peerj.com/articles/18335 last-modified: 2024-10-18 description: Aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity stands as a primary contributor to the development of acute intrinsic renal failure. Distinctive characteristic associated with this nephrotoxicity is the occurrence of tubular necrosis, which is why it is commonly referred to as acute tubular necrosis. Studies have demonstrated that inhibiting rhoA/rho-kinase pathway is beneficial for kidney damage induced by diabetes and renal ischemia. Comparable pathological conditions can be observed in aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity, like those found in diabetes and renal ischemia. Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside, is known to activate Rho/Rho-kinase pathway. The primary goal of this study is to explore influence of oxidative stress on this pathway by concurrently administering gentamicin and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) possessing known antioxidant properties. To achieve this, gentamicin (100 mg kg−1) and ALA (70 mg kg−1) were administered to mice for a period of 9 days, and Rho/Rho-kinase pathway was examined by using ELISA. Administration of gentamicin to mice led to an elevation in RhoA and rho-kinase II levels, along with the activity of rho-kinase in kidneys. However, ALA effectively reversed this heightened response. ALA, known for its antioxidant properties, inhibited activation of Rho/Rho-kinase pathway induced by gentamicin. This finding suggests that gentamicin induces nephrotoxicity through oxidative stress. creator: Percin Pazarci creator: Serkan Özler creator: Halil Mahir Kaplan uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18335 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2024 Pazarci et al. title: Research progress and mitigation strategies for pod shattering resistance in rapeseed link: https://peerj.com/articles/18105 last-modified: 2024-10-17 description: BackgroundMature rapeseed pods typically shatter when harvested, resulting in approximately 8–12% yield loss. Adverse weather conditions and mechanized harvesting can diminish pod yield by up to 50%, primarily owing to delays in harvesting and mechanical collisions. The pod shatter resistance index (PSRI) assesses pod damage. Recent research focused on comparing pod shatter resistance among varieties, evaluating methods, and studying gene knockout mechanisms. However, there remains a pressing need to broaden the scope of research. In particular, it is essential to recognize that pod shatter, a complex trait, influenced by genetics, environment, agronomic practices, and harvest techniques. Future studies should integrate these factors to develop comprehensive strategies to mitigate pod shatter, enhancing rapeseed yields and agricultural mechanization. This review explores factors affecting pod shatter resistance and strategies to improve it.MethodologyScoping literature review that adhered to the methodological framework for systematic reviews was performed using search engines such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, and the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure. This review aimed to identify pertinent articles, which were subsequently subjected to thorough screening and evaluation. The protocol for this literature review involved the following key steps: definition of research questions, development of a search strategy, development of data extraction strategy, synthesis of the extracted data, and organization and analysis of the extracted data.ResultsThe review presents strategies for enhancing rapeseed yield during mechanized harvesting, focusing on four key areas: (i) selecting and breeding shatter-resistant varieties using DNA markers to establish a robust germplasm resource; (ii) optimizing cultivation technologies and agronomic measures to elicit favorable interactions between compact plant-type genotypes and the environment, thereby facilitating nutrient-related regulatory mechanisms of rapeseed pods to improve pod dry weight and resistance; (iii) innovating combine header design and structure to better suit rapeseed harvesting; and (iv) providing training for operators to enhance their harvesting skills. These comprehensive measures aim to minimize yield loss, increase production efficiency.ConclusionTo effectively reduce yield loss during mechanized harvesting of rapeseed, it is crucial to enhance resistance to pod shattering by addressing both internal physiological factors and external environmental conditions. This requires a holistic approach that includes genetic improvements, optimization of ecological conditions, careful cultivation management, and precise harvesting timing, along with ongoing research into traits related to machine harvesting to boost production efficiency and sustainability. creator: Li Liu creator: Hafiz Hassan Javed creator: Yue Hu creator: Yu-Qin Luo creator: Xiao Peng creator: Yong-Cheng Wu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18105 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2024 Liu et al. title: Electronic cigarettes and their association with stress, depression, and anxiety among dental students in the UAE—a pilot cross sectional study link: https://peerj.com/articles/18167 last-modified: 2024-10-17 description: BackgroundDuring dental school, students may encounter stressful events that contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression; in response to these factors, some students use vaping or electronic cigarettes.ObjectiveTo evaluate the relationship between electronic cigarettes use and stress, anxiety, and depression among dental students.MethodsA cross-sectional study included 142 dental students in their preclinical, clinical, or internship year was conducted. The 142 participants were split evenly between two groups: smokers and nonsmokers. The average age of the study’s male and female participants was 21.6 years. Using the DASS 21 scale, participants were instructed to complete an electronic questionnaire assessing the association between electronic cigarettes use and stress, anxiety, and depression in smokers and nonsmokers.ResultsAccording to the findings of this study, stress, anxiety, and depression were significantly associated with electronic cigarette use. Compared to non-smokers, electronic cigarette smokers reported higher levels of severe/extremely severe depression (OR: 10.34, 95% CI: [4.23–24.1]), anxiety (OR: 13.8, 95% CI: [5.4–30.1]) and stress (OR: 27.6, 95% CI: [8.9–85.8]). Compared to males, females were 2.5 times (95% CI: [1.02–6.1]) more likely to report severe/extremely severe anxiety (P < 0.05).ConclusionThis study demonstrates a significant correlation between the use of electronic cigarettes and elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among dental students in the UAE. creator: Waseem Tawba creator: Mohamed El Qadiri creator: Mustafa Al-Adhami creator: Nour Almehmeed creator: Natheer H. Al-Rawi creator: Manal Awad uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18167 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2024 Tawba et al. title: Development of multiplex real-time PCR for simultaneous detection of common fungal pathogens in invasive mycoses link: https://peerj.com/articles/18238 last-modified: 2024-10-17 description: BackgroundFungi are common opportunistic pathogens that pose a significant threat to immunocompromised patients, particularly when late detection occurs.MethodsIn this study a multiplex real-time PCR has been developed for simultaneous detection of common fungal pathogens associated with invasive mycoses in a diagnostic setting.ResultsThe specificity of the assay was rigorously tested on 40 types of organisms (n = 65), demonstrating 100% specificity. The limit of detection was determined to be 100 pg/μl (106 copies/μl), achievable within a rapid 3-h timeframe. The PCR assay efficiency exhibited a range between 89.77% and 104.30% for each target organism, with linearity falling between 0.9780 and 0.9983.ConclusionThis multiplex real-time PCR assay holds promise for enhancing the timely and accurate diagnosis of invasive mycoses, particularly in immunocompromised patient populations. creator: Yasmin Khairani Muhammad Ismadi creator: Suharni Mohamad creator: Azian Harun uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18238 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2024 Ismadi et al. title: Diabetes self-care and its associated factors among type 2 diabetes mellitus with chronic kidney disease patients in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia link: https://peerj.com/articles/18303 last-modified: 2024-10-17 description: IntroductionDiabetes self-care among diabetic patients is crucial as it determines how patients care for their illness in their daily routine for better diabetes control. This study aims to calculate the average score for diabetes self-care among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease and to identify factors that are associated with this score.Materials and MethodsThis cross-sectional study enrols patients over 18 years old with type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic renal disease with an eGFR of less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 in a tertiary hospital in Malaysia. The Malay version of the Summary of Diabetic Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) was used to assess diabetes self-care, the Malay version of the diabetes-related distress questionnaire (DDS-17) was used to assess diabetes distress, and the Malay version of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression. Data analysis was performed using both simple and multiple linear regression models to determine the associations between variables.ResultOne hundred and seventy-six eligible patients were recruited for this study. The mean score for diabetes self-care is 3.62. The eGFR (p = 0.002) and diabetes distress (p = 0.004) are the significant associated factors for diabetes self-care among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with chronic kidney disease.ConclusionThe mean score for diabetes self-care indicated a moderate level of self-care. The eGFR level and diabetes distress were important factors influencing diabetes self-care practices. creator: Siti Aisyah Ramli creator: Nani Draman creator: Juliawati Muhammad creator: Siti Suhaila Mohd Yusoff uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18303 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2024 Ramli et al. title: Oral reading promotes predictive processing in Chinese sentence reading: eye movement evidence link: https://peerj.com/articles/18307 last-modified: 2024-10-17 description: BackgroundFluent sentence reading is widely acknowledged to depend on top-down contextual prediction, wherein sentential and contextual cues guide the pre-activation of linguistic representations before encountering stimuli, facilitating subsequent comprehension. The Prediction-by-Production hypothesis posits an explanation for predictive processes in language comprehension, suggesting that prediction during comprehension involves processes associated with language production. However, there is a lack of eye movement evidence supporting this hypothesis within sentence reading contexts. Thus, we manipulated reading mode and word predictability to examine the influence of language production on predictive processing.MethodsParticipants engaged in silent or oral reading of sentences containing either high or low-predictable target words. Eye movements were recorded using the Eyelink1000 eye tracker.ResultsThe findings revealed a higher skipping rate and shorter fixation times for high-predictable words compared to low-predictable ones, and for silent compared to oral reading. Notably, interactive effects were observed in the time measures (FFD, SFD, GD) during first-pass reading, indicating that word predictability effects were more pronounced during oral reading than silent reading.DiscussionThe observed pattern of results suggests that the activation of the production system enhances predictive processing during the early lexical access, providing empirical support for the Prediction-by-Production hypothesis in eye movement sentence reading situations, extending the current understanding of the timing and nature of predictions in reading comprehension. creator: Min Chang creator: Zhenying Pu creator: Jingxin Wang uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18307 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: ©2024 Chang et al. title: Comparative transcriptome analysis to identify the important mRNA and lncRNA associated with salinity tolerance in alfalfa link: https://peerj.com/articles/18236 last-modified: 2024-10-16 description: Salinity represents a fatal factor affecting the productivity of alfalfa. But the regulation of salinity tolerance via lncRNAs and mRNAs remains largely unclear within alfalfa. For evaluating salinity stress resistance-related lncRNAs and mRNAs within alfalfa, we analyzed root transcriptomics in two alfalfa varieties, GN5 (salinity-tolerant) and GN3 (salinity-sensitive), after treatments with NaCl at 0 and 150 mM. There were altogether 117,677 lncRNAs and 172,986 mRNAs detected, including 1,466 lncRNAs and 2,288 mRNAs with significant differential expression in GN5150/GN50, GN3150/GN30, GN50/GN30, and GN5150/GN3150. As revealed by GO as well as KEGG enrichment, some ionic and osmotic stress-associated genes, such as HPCA1-LRR, PP2C60, PP2C71, CRK1, APX3, HXK2, BAG6, and ARF1, had up-regulated levels in GN5 compared with in GN3. In addition, NaCl treatment markedly decreased CNGC1 expression in GN5. According to co-expressed network analyses, six lncRNAs (TCONS_00113549, TCONS_00399794, TCONS_00297228, TCONS_00004647, TCONS_00033214 and TCONS_00285177) modulated 66 genes including ARF1, BAG6, PP2C71, and CNGC1 in alfalfa roots, suggesting that these nine genes and six lncRNAs probably facilitated the different salinity resistance in GN5 vs. GN3. These results shed more lights on molecular mechanisms underlying genotype difference in salinity tolerance among alfalfas. creator: Gaimei Yang creator: Zhengyan Li creator: Mengru Rong creator: Rugang Yu creator: Qiting Zhang creator: Guoliang Wang creator: Zhiming Xu creator: Xueling Du creator: Xian Xu uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18236 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ rights: © 2024 Yang et al. title: Proteomic analysis of giant panda testicular tissue of different age groups link: https://peerj.com/articles/18249 last-modified: 2024-10-16 description: BackgroundThe reproductive ability of male giant pandas has been a major complicating factor in the ex-situ conservation of the species. While it is well known that the testis produces sperm and secretes androgens, a process that requires precise regulation of various proteins, at present, there has been no systematic study on the composition of proteins in the testis of the giant pandas. Therefore, this study aims to apply proteomics to explore the regulation of proteins in the testes of giant pandas.MethodsSamples from the testes of three giant pandas (22 years, 18 years, 8 days) were studied to assess the protein’s function. A label-free quantitative method was used to isolate testicular proteins from each male, 139,039 peptides and 11,435 proteins were obtained.ResultsGene Ontology (GO) annotates most of the proteins involved in the processes of protein phosphorylation, oxidation-reduction, proteolysis, and signal transduction. KEGG pathway indicated that most of the proteins were involved in the pathway of signal transduction, transport, and catabolism. The protein kinase and WD40 repeats were involved in protein-protein interaction, which in turn regulates gene expression in the testicular tissue of giant pandas.ConclusionsThis study is the first to conduct an in-depth proteomic analysis of testicular tissue in giant pandas. The results revealed the important role of proteins in testicular tissue on spermatogenesis, testosterone production, and testicular microenvironment, providing clues for further research on male giant panda reproduction. creator: Jing Peng creator: Tao Wang creator: Feiping Li creator: Shenfei Wang creator: Mengshi Zhang creator: James Ayala creator: Yuliang Liu creator: Rong Hou creator: Kailai Cai uri: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18249 license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 rights: ©2024 Peng et al.