bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Bio‐Inspired Multifunctional Hydrogel Network with Toughly Interfacial Chemistry for Dendrite‐Free Flexible Zinc Ion Battery
Authors: Yang Song , Wu Qing , Li Yue , Luo Fusheng , Zhang Jinlong , Chen Kui , You Yang , Huang Jun , Xie Haibo , Chen Yiwang
Published: August 2024

Flexible and high‐performance aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs), coupled with low cost and safe, are considered as one of the most promising energy storage candidates for wearable electronics. Hydrogel electrolytes present a compelling alternative to liquid electrolytes due to their remarkable flexibility and clear advantages in mitigating parasitic side reactions. However, hydrogel electrolytes suffer from poor mechanical properties and interfacial chemistry, which limits them to suppressed performance levels in flexible ZIBs, especially under harsh mechanical strains. Herein, a bio‐inspired multifunctional hydrogel electrolyte network (polyacrylamide (PAM)/trehalose) with improved mechanical and adhesive properties was developed via a simple trehalose network‐repairing strategy to stabilize the interfacial chemistry for dendrite‐free and long‐life flexible ZIBs. As a result, the trehalose‐modified PAM hydrogel exhibits a superior strength and stretchability up to 100 kPa and 5338 %, respectively, as well as strong adhesive properties to various substrates. Also, the PAM/trehalose hydrogel electrolyte provides superior anti‐corrosion capability for Zn anode and regulates Zn nucleation/growth, resulting in achieving a high Coulombic efficiency of 98.8 %, and long‐term stability over 2400 h. Importantly, the flexible Zn//MnO2 pouch cell exhibits excellent cycling performance under different bending conditions, which offers a great potential in flexible energy‐related applications and beyond.
Chirality and Curvature on Protein Adsorption and Osteogenesis
Authors: Li Meijun , Jiang Shengjie , Wang Xiaowei , Xu Wei , Du Cong , Wei Yan , Deng Xuliang , Liu Minghua
Published: August 2024

Here we designed enantiomeric lipid‐mimetic glutamic acid derivatives (L/D‐UG) and investigated their self‐assembled chiral nanostructures’ interaction with the protein adsorption as well as the osteogenesis. It was found that L or D‐UG molecules can self‐assemble into vesicle bilayers and two‐dimensional (2D) nanocrystals via a kinetic and thermodynamic control, respectively. These chiral vesicles and 2D crystals showed differentiated adsorption of proteins, determined by their curvature and chirality. Specifically, fibronectin constituted by L‐amino acids adsorbed preferentially on L‐UG 2D crystal in a semi‐random pattern and L‐2D nanocrystal show as the most effective structures to promote bone regeneration. The controlled vesicle and 2D crystal assemblies with different chirality and curvature helps to clarify their determine roles in protein adsorption and osteogenesis.
Arginine Accelerates Sulfur Fluoride Exchange and Phosphorus Fluoride Exchange Reactions between Proteins
Authors: Cao Li , Yu Bingchen , Klauser Paul C. , Zhang Pan , Li Shanshan , Wang Lei
Published: August 2024

Sulfur fluoride exchange (SuFEx) and phosphorus fluoride exchange (PFEx) click chemistries are advancing research across multiple disciplines. By genetically incorporating latent bioreactive unnatural amino acids (Uaas), these chemistries have been integrated into proteins, enabling precise covalent linkages with biological macromolecules and paving the way for new applications. However, their suboptimal reaction rates in proteins limit effectiveness, and traditional catalytic methods for small molecules are often incompatible with biological systems or in vivo applications. We demonstrated that introducing an arginine adjacent to the latent bioreactive Uaa significantly boosts SuFEx and PFEx reaction rates between proteins. This method is effective across various Uaas, target residues, and protein environments. Notably, it also enables efficient SuFEx reactions in acidic conditions, common in certain cellular compartments and tumor microenvironments, which typically hinder SuFEx reactions. Furthermore, we developed the first covalent cell engager that substantially enhances natural killer cell activation through improved covalent interaction facilitated by arginine. These findings provide mechanistic insights and offer a biocompatible strategy to harness these robust chemistries for advancing biological research and developing new biotherapeutics.
Light‐Controlled Bioorthogonal Chemistry Altered Natural Killer Cell Activity for Boosted Adoptive Immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Zhengwei , Zhang Wenting , Zhao Huisi , Sun Mengyu , Zhao Chuanqi , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: August 2024

Natural killer (NK) cell‐based immunotherapy has received much attention in recent years. However, its practical application is still suffering from the decreased function and inadequate infiltration of NK cells in the immunosuppressive microenvironment of solid tumors. Herein, we construct light‐responsive porphyrin Fe array‐armed NK cells (denoted as NK@p‐Fe) for cell behavior modulation via bioorthogonal catalysis. By installing cholesterol‐modified porphyrin Fe molecules on the NK cell surface, a catalytic array with light‐harvesting capabilities is formed. This functionality transforms NK cells into cellular factories capable of catalyzing the production of active agents in a light‐controlled manner. NK@p‐Fe can generate the active antineoplastic drug doxorubicin through bioorthogonal reactions to enhance the cytotoxic function of NK cells. Beyond drug synthesis, NK@p‐Fe can also bioorthogonally catalyze the production of the FDA‐approved immune agonist imiquimod (IMQ). The activated immune agonist plays a dual role, inducing dendritic cell maturation for NK cell activation and reshaping the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment for NK cell infiltration. This work represents a paradigm for the modulation of adoptive cell behaviors to boost cancer immunotherapy by bioorthogonal catalysis.
Tunable, reagent‐loaded polyurethane nanocapsules cleavable by NIR light
Authors: Avlasevich Yuri , Baluschev Stanislav , Landfester Katharina
Published: August 2024

Dual response polyurethane nanocapsules consisting of a hydrophilic core are synthesized via interfacial polyaddition of the diisocyanate monomers and different diols (VA‐060 and glycols) in inverse miniemulsion process. The presence of the water‐soluble NIR dye in the core and azo‐bonds in the polymer shell allows the selective release of encapsulated material triggered by temperature or NIR light. The capsules are characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The capsule degradation under external stimuli, like temperature and NIR light, is confirmed microscopically by TEM. Macroscopic evidence of the capsule cleavage was achieved by the incorporation of the chemical into the capsule core, and subsequent treatment of the capsules with NIR laser in the presence of the suitable reagent outside the capsules. A color‐forming chemical reaction occurred after the shell opening. The reactions were easily detected by visual observation of a color change and by UV–Vis spectroscopy.
Reprocessable carbon fiber vitrimer composites: Reclamation and reformatting of carbon fibers for second generation composite materials
Authors: Sharma Harsh , Bender Marcel , Kim Geonwoo , Lee Dongkwan , Caglayan Cigdem , Schlögl Sandra , Yun Gun Jin , Kumar Ajay , Rana Sravendra
Published: August 2024

Carbon fibers (CFs) are experiencing a growing demand owing to their low specific weight, exceptional mechanical properties, superior temperature, and corrosion resistance, however, their sustainability and energy consumption during manufacturing is still a challenge. Therefore, reclamation of waste CFs and their reformatting has gained significant attention. Herein, we synthesized a chemically degradable vitrimer matrix by curing bisphenol‐A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) with 2‐aminophenyl disulfide (2‐AFD) and further utilized the matrix for the development of CF reinforced composites (CFRCs) through vacuum‐assisted resin infusion molding (VARIM) process. The obtained vitrimeric system and its composites show excellent mechanical, self‐adhering, shape‐memory, and reprocessing properties. Meanwhile, the developed CFRP vitrimer composites can be rapidly dissolved in thiol solvent (1‐octanethiol), resulting in the efficient recycling of CFs. X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy validate that the chemical structure of the recycled fibers closely resembles the structure of the original CFs. The recycled CFs were further used to prepare second generation composite materials with excellent thermal, dynamic, and mechanical properties for nonstructural applications (e.g., sports, automotive, etc.). Thus, with an effective CF recycling method, this study can assist in preparing reliable, long‐term functional, recyclable, and high‐performance composites.
A phosphorus/fluorine‐containing block copolymer endows epoxy with multifunctionality
Authors: Chen Yongming , Liu Xiaohui , Wu Shunwei , Li Lu , Zeng Birong , Luo Weiang , He Kaibin , Xu Yiting , Yuan Conghui , Dai Lizong
Published: August 2024

In order to achieve flame retardant, hydrophobic, and toughened epoxy resins, phosphorus/fluorine‐containing block copolymer (FBCP) was synthesized by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization, and then the as‐synthesized PMADOPO‐b‐PHFBA block copolymer was used as additive to modify the epoxy resin, accompanying with a random copolymer (FRCP) serving as control group. It showed that due to the regular arrangement of molecular chains, FBPC formed a fibrous‐like structure at the fracture interface of epoxy/PMADOPO‐b‐PHFBA (EP/FBCP) samples, effectively enhancing the toughness of epoxy composite materials. The fracture energy of EP90/FBCP‐10 was higher than that of EP90/FRCP‐10 and was about twice than that of pure EP. The addition of 3 wt% FBCP could enhance the limited oxygen index (LOI) of EP97/FBCP‐3 to 33.2% and reached a V‐1 UL‐94 rating. As the addition of FBCP increased, the LOI gradually increased. When the addition of FBCP was 10%, the LOI and UL‐94 of EP90/FBCP‐10 was 38.2% and V‐0 grade, respectively. Meanwhile, the presence of fluorine element effectively reduced the surface energy of the composite EP material. Compared with pure EP, the water contact angle of EP90/FBCP‐10 was about 101° with an increasing of 20.8%. Furthermore, the flame‐retardant mechanism of EP/FBCP epoxy composites was discussed.
Breastfeeding patterns in infants are associated with a later diagnosis of autism Spectrum disorder
Authors: Elbedour Leena , Balaum Rewaa , Alhozyel Einav , Meiri Gal , Zigdon Dikla , Michaelovski Analya , Kerub Orly , Menashe Idan
Published: August 2024

Breastfeeding is associated with medical and developmental benefits. This study aimed to assess associations between nutritional patterns in the first year of life and the likelihood of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). 270 children diagnosed with ASD (cases) and 500 neurotypical children (controls) matched to cases by sex, ethnicity, and birth date (± 3 months) were included in this retrospective case–control study. Both groups were ascertained from children born between 2014 and 2017 whose development/nutrition were monitored at mother–child health clinics in southern Israel. Conditional logistic regression was used to determine the independent association of nutritional patterns with ASD while adjusting for socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics. Both exclusive and partial breastfeeding modes were associated with decreased odds of ASD diagnosis (aOR = 0.221, 95%CI = 0.136–0.360; aOR = 0.494, 95%CI = 0.328–0.743, respectively). A breastfeeding duration of >12 months was associated with lower ASD odds (aOR = 0.418, 95%CI = 0.204–0.855), while the introduction of solids after 6 months of age was associated with higher ASD odds than the introduction of solids at 6 months (aOR = 2.455, 95%CI = 1.116–4.201). These findings suggest that a longer period of exclusive breastfeeding is associated with a subsequent reduced likelihood of ASD diagnosis, thus reiterating the importance of proper post‐natal nutrition for infant neurodevelopment.
Development of an amperometric biosensor that can determine the amount of glucose in the blood using the glucose oxidase enzyme: Preparation of polyaniline–polypyrrole–poly(sodium‐4‐styrenesulfonate) film
Authors: Uzumer Tugce Yagmur , Cete Servet , Tekeli Yener , Altuner Elif Esra
Published: August 2024

In this study, a new amperometric biosensor was developed for glucose determination. For this purpose, polyaniline–polypyrrole–poly(sodium‐4‐styrenesulfonate) film was prepared by electropolymerization of aniline and pyrrole with poly(sodium‐4‐styrenesulfonate) on a platinum plate. The best working conditions of the polyaniline–polypyrrole–poly(sodium‐4‐styrenesulfonate) film were determined. The glucose oxidase enzyme was immobilized by the entrapment method in polyaniline–polypyrrole–poly(sodium‐4‐styrenesulfonate) film. Glucose determination was made based on the oxidation of hydrogen peroxide, which is formed as a result of the enzymatic reaction on the surface of the prepared biosensor at +0.40 V. The working range for the glucose determination of the biosensor was determined. The effects of pH and temperature on the response of the glucose biosensor were investigated. The reusability and shelf life of the biosensor were determined. The effects of interference in biological environments on the response of the biosensor were investigated. Glucose determination was made in the biological fluid (blood) with the prepared biosensor. This study has a feature that sheds light on biosensor studies to be developed for the detection of substances in the human body, such as glucose, uric acid, and urea. This article will set an example for future scientific research on the development of a sensor for other biological fluids in the human body, such as the sensor developed for blood samples. In addition, this developed sensor provides an innovation that improves the quality of life of patients by allowing them to constantly monitor their glucose levels and intervene when necessary.
Morin overcomes doxorubicin resistance in human breast cancer by inducing DNA damage and modulating the LKB1/AMPK/mTORC1 signaling pathway
Authors: Maharjan Sushma , Lee Min‐Gu , Lee Kyu‐Shik , Nam Kyung‐Soo
Published: August 2024

Breast cancer chemoresistance hampers chemotherapy efficacy; researchers investigate the pharmacological activities of natural products for potential solutions. This study aimed to determine the effect of morin, a bioflavonoid isolated from Maclura pomifera, on two Dox‐resistant human breast cancer cell lines MDA‐MB‐231 (MDA‐DR) and MCF‐7 (MCF‐DR). Sulforhodamine B and colony‐forming assays demonstrated the cytotoxic effect of morin on both cell lines. Morin induced DNA damage and reduced the DNA repair mechanism, a feature of chemoresistance. In addition, morin reduced the protein expressions of cell cycle regulators, such as cyclin D1, CDK4, cyclin E1, cyclin B1, and p‐Rb, thereby halting cell cycle progression. Moreover, morin slightly reduced PARP and Bcl‐xL expressions but left LC3‐II and RIPK3 expressions unchanged. Annexin‐V/7‐AAD analysis showed morin increased 7‐AAD positive cells and annexin‐V positive cells among MDA‐DR and MCF‐DR cells, respectively. In addition, morin increased p‐AMPK and p‐LKB1 levels; and, thus, inhibited phosphorylation of the mTOR pathway, but decreased t‐AMPK levels by inducing lysosomal degradation, and AICAR, an AMPK activator, reduced Raptor, cyclin D1, CDK4, cyclin E1 and phosphorylated, and total mTOR levels, indicating AMPK is a key player in inducing cell death. Also, morin modulated MAPK phosphorylation and attenuated p‐Akt and p‐GSK3αβ levels; and thus, inhibited cell survival. In addition, morin suppressed tumor growth in our MDA‐DR xenografted mouse model. These findings indicate that morin is a potential treatment for Dox‐resistant breast cancer and that it does so by inducing DNA damage and modulating the LKB1/AMPK/mTORC1 pathway, along with regulating the MAPK, and Akt/GSK3αβ signaling pathways.
Serum metabolome analysis reveals medicinal fungi Phellinus igniarius ameliorated type 2 diabetes mellitus indications in rats via modulation of amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism
Authors: Xia Jingyao , Deng Yuling , Ying Youyou , Pan Junzhi , Xu Xiangwei , Tao Yi
Published: August 2024

Medicinal fungi Phellinus igniarius exhibited hypoglycemic effects; however, the protective mechanisms of P. igniarius on type 2 diabetes are not yet fully understood. Herein, the anti‐diabetic effect of P. igniarius was investigated via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS)‐based metabolome analysis. The rats were divided into normal group; model group; positive group; and groups treated with low, medium, and high dose of P. igniarius. After the treatments, a significant decrease in blood glucose concentration was observed. The levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride were dramatically decreased, whereas the level of insulin was increased. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed 31 differential endogenous metabolites between model group and normal group. A total of 14, 28, and 31 biomarkers were identified for low, medium, and high dose of P. igniarius treated groups, respectively. Twenty‐one of the biomarkers were validated by using standard substances. The linear correlation coefficients ranged from 0.9990 to 1.0000. The methodology exhibited good repeatability, recoveries, and stability. The major intervened metabolic pathways covered glyoxylate and dicarboxylic acid metabolism; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; and glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism. Our metabolome analysis has provided insights into the underlying mechanism of P. igniarius on type 2 diabetes.
Size‐exclusion LC‐UV/HRMS based method for the analysis of aggregates in synthetic GLP‐1 analog liraglutide and evaluation of excipient impact on aggregation
Authors: Badgujar Devendra , Bawake Sanket , Chawathe Ashwini , Sharma Nitish
Published: August 2024

Peptide aggregation is one of the key challenges associated with the development of therapeutic peptides. Peptide and protein aggregates are considered as one of the most important critical quality attributes (CQA). Therapeutic liraglutide (LGT) is proteinaceous in nature, and aggregation can be triggered by various environmental stress condition. Therefore, it is essential to separate and identify aggregation states of such drugs. In this study, we have established size exclusion chromatography‐liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet/high resolution mass spectrometry (SEC‐LC‐UV/HRMS) method to separate and identify the stress induced LGT aggregates. LGT samples were subjected to photolytic, thermal, freeze thaw and shaking stress conditions. Additionally, LGT solution was incubated with surfactant and excipient that are commonly used in peptide formulation, to evaluate their impact on aggregation level and physicochemical stability over time. The developed SEC method was also validated for specificity, accuracy, precision and linearity. The results of this study will be useful for investigators to monitor LGT aggregates during product development.
Aligning incentives for implementing reversible bonding as a circular economy innovation
Authors: Van Opstal Wim , Smeets Anse , Pals Emma
Published: August 2024

A transition towards a circular economy (CE) often involves the development and adoption of novel technologies and business models. Its implementation, however, requires a close collaboration within and between organizations along supply chains. In this paper, we investigate incentive alignment for the implementation of reversible bonding, a technique that enables separating materials on demand. We use data from semi‐structured interviews with supply chain actors in manufacturing and construction and identify its potential for process optimization and improved repair, refurbishment, and recycling opportunities. Quality, safety, and performance are identified as the most important boundary conditions while split incentive problems tend to impede the implementation of reversible bonding. Switch costs, a lacking market demand, and insufficient mandatory regulations cause split incentive problems, which may be aggravated or mitigated by several market imperfections. Recommendations include investing in collaborative capabilities within organizations and an ex‐ante identification of split incentive problems when constructing circular supply chain governance mechanisms.
Investigation of instability in the dynamic behaviour of a bubble
Authors: Li Qiang , Lu Shaobo , Liu Jialin , Lei Mao , Gao Jiahan , Xu Weiwei
Published: August 2024

In order to obtain the laws of the bubble's dynamic behaviours, the interFoam solver in OpenFOAM was used to simulate the bubbles, and the experimental device was built to prove the reliability of the results. The Eötvös number (Eo) and the Galileo number (Ga) were used to classify the bubbles into four regions according to their different dynamic behaviours: straight line without deformation region, slight zigzag without deformation region, zigzag with slight deformation region, and zigzag with strong deformation region. Eo of bubbles in the straight line without deformation region is extremely small and is greatly influenced by surface tension. The bubbles do not deform and rise linearly along the axis of symmetry. Eo of bubbles in the slight zigzag without deformation region is still small and the bubbles do not deform, but the path is curved for a period of time. As the value of Eo increases, the bubble in the zigzag with the slight deformation region is weakened. The path is a regular zigzag, and the axisymmetric structure of the bubbles is destroyed. In the zigzag with the strong deformation region, the values of Eo and Ga are large. The path amplitude increases and the periodic law is broken. The bubble's deformation and vortex shedding interact with each other, both of which are the causes of the bubble's path instability.
M‐DFCPP: A runtime library for multi‐machine dataflow computing
Authors: Luo Qiuming , Liu Senhong , Huang Jinke , Li Jinrong
Published: August 2024

This article designs and implements a runtime library for general dataflow programming, DFCPP (Luo Q, Huang J, Li J, Du Z. Proceedings of the 52nd International Conference on Parallel Processing Workshops. ACM; 2023:145‐152.), and builds upon it to design and implement a multi‐machine C++ dataflow library, M‐DFCPP. In comparison to existing dataflow programming environments, DFCPP features a user‐friendly interface and richer expressive capabilities (Luo Q, Huang J, Li J, Du Z. Proceedings of the 52nd International Conference on Parallel Processing Workshops. ACM; 2023:145‐152.), enabling the representation of various types of dataflow actor tasks (static, dynamic and conditional task). Besides that, DFCPP addresses the memory management and task scheduling for non‐uniform memory access architectures, while other dataflow libraries lack attention to these issues. M‐DFCPP extends the capability of current dataflow runtime libraries (DFCPP, taskflow, openstream, etc.) and capable of multi‐machine computing, while maintains the API compatible with DFCPP. M‐DFCPP adopts the concepts of master and follower (Dean J, Ghemawat S. Commun ACM. 2008;51(1):107‐113; Ghemawat S, Gobioff H, Leung ST. ACM SIGOPS Operating Systems Review. ACM; 2003:29‐43.), which form a worksharing framework as many multi‐machine system. To shift to the M‐DFCPP framework, a filtering layer is inserted to the original DFCPP, transforming it into followers that can cooperate with each other. The master is made of modules for scheduling, data processing, graph partition, state management and so forth. In benchmark tests with workload with directed acyclic graph topology of binary trees and random graphs, DFCPP demonstrated performance improvements of 20% and 8%, respectively, compared to the second fastest library. M‐DFCPP consistently exhibits outstanding performance across varying levels of concurrency and task workloads, achieving a maximum speedup of more than 20 over DFCPP, when the task parallelism exceeds 5000 on 32 nodes. Moreover, M‐DFCPP, as a runtime library supporting multi‐node dataflow computation, is compared with MPI, a runtime library supporting multi‐node control flow computation.
COVID‐19 Posttraumatic Effects on Perinatal Psychological Distress: A Cross‐Sectional Study at the End of the Pandemic Health Emergency
Authors: Caffieri Alessia , Fabbricatore Rosa , Margherita Giorgia
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Psychological distress in pregnant and postpartum women increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, the impact of the pandemic in perinatal women at the end of the health emergency has been rarely studied. This study is aimed at investigating the psychological health of pregnant and postpartum women at the end of the COVID‐19 public health emergency, hypothesizing that the COVID‐19‐related fears influence perinatal psychological distress via the mediation of the COVID‐19‐related posttraumatic impact and loneliness.

Methods

A total of 200 women in the perinatal period, of which 125 were pregnant and 75 were postpartum, participated in an online survey at the end of the COVID‐19 public health emergency in Italy. Depression, anxiety, stress, loneliness, posttraumatic impact of COVID‐19 pandemic and COVID‐19‐related fears were assessed. To test the hypotheses, robust serial mediation analyses were performed.

Results

Increased levels of COVID‐19‐related fears were associated with an increase in perinatal depression, anxiety and stress indirectly through the serial mediation of COVID‐19 posttraumatic impact and loneliness. Loneliness played a stronger role in mediating the relationship between COVID‐19‐related fears and depression than anxiety and stress outcomes.

Conclusions

This study should be considered exploratory for its methodological characteristics and nonreplicability of the pandemic condition. However, this study suggests the importance of assessing posttraumatic reactions to ‘collective’ crises in pregnant and postpartum women for research and clinical practice. In addition, it sustains the role of loneliness as a transversal construct that should be greatly considered in targeting psychological interventions for women in the perinatal period.
Fish with slow life‐history cope better with chronic manganese exposure than fish with fast life‐history
Authors: Uusi‐Heikkilä Silva , Salonen Jouni K. , Karjalainen Juha S. , Väisänen Ari , Hippeläinen Johanna , Hämärvuo Teemu , Kuparinen Anna
Published: August 2024

Animals with different life‐history types vary in their stress‐coping styles, which can affect their fitness and survival in changing environments. We studied how chronic exposure to manganese sulfate (MnSO4), a common aquatic pollutant, affects life‐history traits, physiology, and behavior of zebrafish (Danio rerio) with two life‐history types: fast (previously selected for fast juvenile growth, early maturation, and small adult body size) and slow life histories (selected for slow juvenile growth, late maturation, and large adult body size). We found that MnSO4 had negative effects on growth and condition factors, but the magnitude of these effects depended on the life‐history type. Individuals with fast life histories were more susceptible to MnSO4 than fish with slow life histories as they had lower growth rate, condition factor and feeding probability in high MnSO4 concentrations. Our results demonstrate that MnSO4 can impair fish performance, and life‐history variation can modulate the stress‐coping ability of individuals.
Genomics of ecological adaptation in Canary Island Descurainia (Brassicaceae) and comparisons with other Brassicaceae
Authors: Jackson Amy C. , Carine Mark A. , Chapman Mark A.
Published: August 2024

Oceanic archipelagos provide striking examples of lineages that have radiated over pronounced ecological gradients. Accompanying this diversification, lineages have evolved adaptations allowing survival in extreme environments. Here, we investigate the genomic basis of ecological adaptation in Canary Island Descurainia (Brassicaceae), an island relative of Arabidopsis. The seven endemic species have diversified in situ along an elevational and ecological gradient, from low‐elevation scrub to high‐elevation sub‐alpine desert. We first generated a reference genome for Descurainia millefolia, phylogenetic analysis of which placed it as sister to D. sophioides. Ninety‐six gene families were found to be specific to D. millefolia and a further 1087 and 1469 gene families have expanded or contracted in size, respectively, along the D. millefolia branch. We then employed genome re‐sequencing to sample 14 genomes across the seven species of Canary Island Descurainia and an outgroup. Phylogenomic analyses were consistent with previous reconstructions of Canary Island Descurainia in resolving low‐ and high‐elevation clades. Using the branch‐site dN/dS method, we detected positive selection for 275 genes on the branch separating the low‐ and high‐elevation species and these positively selected genes (PSGs) were significantly enriched for functions related to reproduction and stress tolerance. Comparing PSGs to those in analyses of adaptation to elevation and/or latitude in other Brassicaceae, we found little evidence of widespread convergence and gene reuse, except for two examples, one of which was a significant overlap between Descurainia and Draba nivalis, a species restricted to high latitudes. The study of Canary Island Descurainia suggests that the transition to high‐elevation environments such as that found in the high mountains of the Canary Islands involves selection on genes related to reproduction and stress tolerance but that repeated evolution across different lineages that have evolved into similar habitats is limited, indicating substantially different molecular trajectories to adaptation.
Does introduced European Phragmites australis experience belowground microbial enemy release in North America?
Authors: Lee Sean F. H. , Chapman Samantha K. , Mozdzer Thomas J. , Eller Franziska , Langley J. Adam
Published: August 2024

Escape from native range enemies can give invasive species a competitive edge according to the enemy‐release hypothesis. While more commonly associated with predators and herbivores, release from belowground microbial antagonists has been recently demonstrated to benefit invasive plants. Biogeographic variation in dominance and comparisons of soil communities suggest that invasive European Phragmites australis may have also benefitted from belowground enemy release in North America (NA). Here we examine the effects of native range (Europe) versus introduced range (NA) soil communities on European and North American P. australis using a reciprocal inoculation seedling growth experiment. Contrary to the enemy‐release hypothesis, we found that North American P. australis was sensitive to soil community origin in that the seedlings grown in European soil communities had higher total biomass than seedlings grown in North American soil communities. This pattern was not observed in the European P. australis seedlings which had similar biomass when grown with North American or European soil communities. Notably, North American P. australis had higher biomass than European P. australis regardless of which soil community it was grown in, suggesting a growth–defense tradeoff. Though the relative abundance of mutualists and pathogens composition did not differ between the two ranges, an indicator analysis revealed that mutualistic fungi and bacteria were key components of European soil communities but not in North American communities. Interestingly, North American soil communities had lower β diversity than European communities suggesting higher levels of community conservation among North American populations. This research represents the first evidence of growth–defense trade‐offs in North American P. australis and offers a novel mechanism in understanding the invasion of P. australis in NA.
Illuminating the collective learning continuum in the Colorado River Basin Science‐Policy Forums
Authors: Hovis Meredith , Gerlak Andrea K. , Heikkila Tanya , Rittelmeyer Pam , Koebele Elizabeth , Méndez‐Barrientos Linda Estelí , Lubell Mark
Published: August 2024

Although considerable research over the past two decades has examined collective learning in environmental governance, much of this scholarship has focused on cases where learning occurred, limiting our understanding of the drivers and barriers to learning. To advance knowledge of what we call the “collective learning continuum,” we compare cases of learning to cases where learning was not found to occur or its effects were “blocked.” Through semi‐structured interviews with key stakeholders in science‐policy forums in the Colorado River Basin, a large and complex river basin in western North America, we examine differences and patterns that explain moments of learning, blocked learning, or non‐learning, drawing insights from the collective learning framework. Our results find various factors that influence learning, blocked learning, and non‐learning. We discover technical and social factors as common drivers of both learning and blocked learning. In contrast, we find more structural factors associated with non‐learning. At the same time, the cases reveal insights about the role of political factors, such as timing, legal constraints, and priorities, which are underdeveloped in the collective learning framework. Overall, these findings advance theoretical knowledge of the collective learning continuum and offer practical insights that may strengthen the coordination of science and management for effective governance within the Basin.
Monitoring ecosystem services with essential ecosystem service variables
Authors: Schwantes Amanda M , Firkowski Carina Rauen , Affinito Flavio , Rodriguez Peter S , Fortin Marie‐Josée , Gonzalez Andrew
Published: August 2024

In the Anthropocene, ecosystems are changing along with their capacity to support human well‐being. Monitoring ecosystem services (ESs) is required to assess the changing state of human–nature interactions. To standardize the monitoring of multiple facets of ESs, the Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network (GEO BON) recently proposed the essential ecosystem service variables (EESVs), which are organized into six classes: Ecological Supply, Use, Demand, Anthropogenic Contribution, Instrumental Value, and Relational Value. We apply the EESV framework to three case studies in British Columbia, Canada, each targeting a single ES. Using trend and intervention analysis, we show how EESVs are changing and affected by policy. We discuss key challenges and solutions while providing guidance on how to quantify EESVs. Finally, we demonstrate the potential of EESVs to harmonize metrics across conceptual frameworks, monitor ES change, and provide decision support to assess progress under various international policy conventions.
Species control for managing thermal guild interactions in warming food webs
Authors: Jarvis Lauren , McMeans Bailey C , Chu Cindy , Tunney Tyler D
Published: August 2024

To promote sustainable fisheries under climate change, fisheries managers must apply appropriate adaptation measures. However, little is known about how species interactions shift with climate change and the potential effectiveness of such adaptation measures. Here, we modeled the application of a species control measure in a lake ecosystem using a temperature‐dependent food‐web model containing different thermal guilds. A warm‐adapted predator (bass, Micropterus spp) was removed to locally mitigate undesirable effects of climate warming on a cool‐adapted species (walleye, Sander vitreus). Nevertheless, a warming‐induced thermally mediated trophic cascade can lead to expected and unexpected outcomes, with bass removal depending on food‐web linkages. With low levels of bass predation on juvenile walleye, walleye persist in warmer temperatures when bass are present (not controlled) than when bass are absent (controlled). Therefore, we encourage managers to use caution and consider various scenarios of food‐web changes, to determine when species control may be effective for climate adaptation.
Comparative analysis of chemical elements and metabolites in diverse garlic varieties based on metabolomics and ionomics
Authors: Meng Junjun , Zhong Haitao , Chu Xue , Guo Jinxiu , Zhao Shiyuan , Shen Tao , Sun Wenxue , Wang Jianhua , Jiang Pei
Published: August 2024

As a plant classified under the “medicine food homology” concept, garlic offers various health benefits and comes in many different varieties. In this study, the metabolite composition of different garlic varieties were analyzed using LC–MS/MS quadrupole‐Orbitrap mass spectrometry and ICP‐MS. A total of 30 chemical elements and 1256 metabolites were identified. Significant differences in chemical elements and metabolomics profiles were observed among the five garlic groups (VIP > 1.5). Compared to WG, PG contained 5 unique compounds, HG had 15 unique compounds, SCG had 18 unique compounds, and SBG had 26 unique compounds. Furthermore, the results showed that WG had smaller differences with PG and HG, but significant differences with SBG and SCG. KEGG analysis revealed metabolic pathways associated with the formation of differential metabolites. These findings uncover the differences and mechanisms in the composition of various garlic varieties, providing a theoretical foundation for distinguishing the nutritional components of different garlic types.
Global 24 solar terms phenological MODIS normalized difference vegetation index dataset in 2001–2022
Authors: Yang Jingyu , Wu Taixia , Sun Xiying , Liu Kai , Farhan Muhammad , Zhao Xuan , Gao Quanshan , Yang Yingying , Shao Yuhan , Wang Shudong
Published: August 2024

Phenology reflects the life cycle of vegetation, crucial for monitoring global vegetation diversity, ecosystem stability, and agricultural security. However, there is currently no dataset related to phenology. The 24 solar terms (24STs), based on the Sun's annual motion, reflect the changing seasons, temperature fluctuations, and phenological phenomena. They serve as a vital means to characterize vegetation phenology. This study generate a global Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) product based on 24STs using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on the Google Earth Engine (GEE). The 24STs NDVI dataset adopted the maximum value compositing (MVC) to process the NDVI values between two adjacent 24STs. The product has a spatial resolution of 250 m, covering the period from 2001 to 2022. Comparing with the MOD13Q1, good spatiotemporal consistency between the two datasets was observed, confirming the reliability of the 24STs product. However, the 24STs product holds distinct phenological meanings. This product introduces, for the first time, a vegetation index dataset based on the 24STs, enriching the vegetation index dataset and facilitating further research on phenology.
Structural and chronological constraints for Longquan‐Badu ductile shear zone: Implication for Triassic intraplate orogeny in South China Block
Authors: Gao Wanli , Wang Zongxiu
Published: August 2024

The ductile shear deformation of Precambrian basement rocks in Wuyishan provides a crucial perspective on intraplate orogeny in the South China Block (SCB). This study focuses on the Longquan‐Badu ductile shear zone in southeastern Zhejiang, employing field observations, thin section analysis, quartz electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), zircon U–Pb dating and 40Ar/39Ar geochronology. Two distinct phases of deformation, referred to as D1 and D2, have been identified. D1 is primarily characterized by a WNW–ESE striking foliation within a NE‐plunging lineation, indicating top‐to‐SSW shearing. The paragneiss within the Badu complex that experienced D1 deformation has been dated to 247–239 Ma through zircon U–Pb analysis, corresponding to the prevalent high‐pressure metamorphic age in the region. This correlation suggests that the D1 deformation event coincided with crustal thickening during the Early Triassic. D2 deformation exhibits folds, foliation, S‐C fabrics and mylonitic microstructures and is mainly characterized by striking NNE–SSW with steeply dip, demonstrating a dominant dextral strike–slip component. Quartz c‐axis orientations in mylonitic rocks indicate deformation temperatures between 350°C and 550°C with asymmetric girdle patterns suggesting simultaneous basal and prism slip. The plateau ages of muscovite from mylonitic rocks obtained through 40Ar/39Ar dating are approximately ~228 Ma implying that the D2 deformation occurred under retrograde amphibolite to greenschist facies metamorphic conditions during Middle Triassic. Collectively these data along with regional geological evidence signify two distinct intracontinental orogenic processes occurring in eastern SCB. Considering Early Mesozoic tectonothermal events in Cathaysia Block, it can be inferred that intraplate orogeny in Wuyishan resulted from plate‐margin collisions between SCB and peripheral plates following scissors closure of Palaeo‐Tethys from east to west.
Experiential Training in Psychedelic‐Assisted Therapy: A Risk‐Benefit Analysis
Authors: Rosenbaum Daniel , Hare Crystal , Hapke Emma , Herman Yarissa , Abbey Susan E. , Sisti Dominic , Buchman Daniel Z.
Published: August 2024

Well‐trained, competent therapists are crucial for safe and effective psychedelic‐assisted therapy (PAT). The question whether PAT training programs should require aspiring therapists to undergo their own PAT—commonly referred to as “experiential training”—has received much attention within the field. In this article, we analyze the potential benefits of experiential training in PAT by applying the framework developed by Rolf Sandell et al. concerning the functions of any training therapy (the therapeutic, modeling, empathic, persuasive, and theoretical functions). We then explore six key domains in which risks could arise through mandatory experiential training: physical and psychological risks; negative impact on therapeutic skill; justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion; dual relationships; privacy and confidentiality; and undue pressure. Ultimately, we argue that experiential training in PAT should not be mandatory. Because many PAT training programs already incorporate experiential training methods, our exploration of potential harms and benefits may be used to generate comprehensive risk‐mitigation strategies.
Conscientious Provision of Care
Authors: Haupt Laura
Published: August 2024

The four articles in the Hastings Center Report's July‐August 2024 issue make for an eclectic mix. The lead article, to which two commentaries respond, makes the case that the legal protections for conscientious objection in medicine should be counterbalanced by legal protections for clinicians who, against the religious or moral policies of the hospitals where they work, conscientiously provide referrals for medical interventions that are prohibited in those facilities. Two other articles focus on the ethics of normothermic regional perfusion, a controversial surgical procedure in transplantation medicine. The final article explores the risks and benefits of having aspiring therapists in the field of psychedelic‐assisted therapy (PAT) undergo their own PAT as part of their training.
In Defense of Normothermic Regional Perfusion
Authors: Truog Robert D. , Doernberg Samuel N.
Published: August 2024

Normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) is a relatively new approach to procuring organs for transplantation. After circulatory death is declared, perfusion is restored to either the thoracoabdominal organs (in TA‐NRP) or abdominal organs alone (in A‐NRP) using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Simultaneously, surgeons clamp the cerebral arteries, causing a fatal brain injury. Critics claim that clamping the arteries is the proximate cause of death in violation of the dead donor rule and that the procedure is therefore unethical. We disagree. This account does not consider the myriad other factors that contribute to the death of the donor, including the presence of a fatal medical condition, the decision to withdraw life support, and the physician's actions in withdrawing life support and administering medication that may hasten death. Instead, we claim that physicians play a causative role in many of the events that lead to a patient's death and that these actions are often ethically and legally justified. We advance an “all things considered” view according to which TA‐NRP may be considered ethically acceptable insofar as it avoids suffering and respects the wishes of the patient to improve the lives of others through organ donation. We conclude with a series of critical questions related to the practice of NRP and call for the development of national consensus on this issue in the United States.
A Risk Is Not a Harm: Abortion Exceptions in State Laws
Authors: Bibler Trevor M. , Suen Alison
Published: August 2024

This letter responds to the article “Beneath the Sword of Damocles: Moral Obligations of Physicians in a Post‐Dobbs Landscape,” by Anne Drapkin Lyerly, Ruth R. Faden, and Michelle M. Mello, in the May‐June 2024 issue of the Hastings Center Report.
Bofedal wetland and glacial melt contributions to dry season streamflow in a high‐Andean headwater watershed
Authors: Gribbin Tom , Mackay Jonathan D. , MacDonald Alan , Hannah David M. , Buytaert Wouter , Baiker Jan R. , Montoya Nilton , Perry L. Baker , Seimon Anton , Rado Maxwell , Arias Sandro , Vargas Miguel
Published: August 2024

In the context of expected future melt reductions in the high‐Andes, the buffering capacity of non‐glacial stores, and especially of high‐altitude bofedal wetlands, is of increasing importance. Isotope signatures potentially indicative of water undergoing evaporation on transit through bofedales have been found in the tropics, but end‐member uncertainty has so far prevented streamflow separation using this signal. We undertook a stable isotope sampling campaign over the 2022 wet‐dry season transition in a 53.6 km2, 16% glacierized catchment in southern Peru with a bofedal coverage of 11%. Diurnal proglacial hydrographs and remote sensing were used to interpret seasonal snowmelt dynamics and identify the dry periods when glacial melt and bofedal contributions are assessed to be the two principal components of streamflow. Following the final wet season precipitation event, a rapid ~3 week transition occurs in the main river from a stable isotope signature consistent with dynamic rainfall/snowmelt contributions to one of ice‐melt. In both wet and dry seasons, the main river and tributary streams show evaporative enrichment suggesting ongoing supply from water transiting bofedales. A two‐component mixing model using lc‐excess during the dry season shows the bofedal source contribution varies from 9% to 20% [±9–10%], indicating that streamflow is greatly augmented by the presence of glaciers at these headwater scales. However, applying these proportions to river discharge shows a sustained bofedal contribution of around 0.09 m3/s during the dry season study window whereas the flux of glacial water halves from 0.73 to 0.36 m3/s over this timeframe. The results highlight the important role of bofedales and the connected groundwater system in buffering seasonal declines in streamflow months into the dry season, and suggests the hydrological functioning of bofedales as part of this wider system should be considered when exploring the effectiveness of potential options to sustain baseflows in a post‐glacial future.