bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Independent and synergistic effects of microplastics and endocrine‐disrupting chemicals on the reproductive social behavior of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas)
Authors: Carter Grace , Ward Jessica 
Published: February 2024

AbstractMicroplastics (MPs) have become an environmental concern in recent years, with most research focused on the physiological effects of exposure. Comparatively little consideration has been given to the potential behavioral impacts of exposure, which may also have fitness consequences for individuals. Moreover, MPs can serve as vectors for endocrine‐disrupting chemicals and other locally co‐occurring contaminants known to impair behavioral responses. This project aimed to determine whether MPs alone or in association with a common environmental EDC (17‐alpha ethinyl estradiol; EE2) alter reproductive behavior and decision‐making in fish. Male and female fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were exposed to MPs associated with either a low (10 ng/L; MPEE2 10) or high (50 ng/L, MPEE2 50) concentration of EE2, or MPs without EE2 (MPvirgin) for 30 days via a dietary feeding protocol. Behavioral trials were conducted on Day 31 to determine the effects of exposure on male–female social interactions. The expression of male sexually selected traits, including courtship, was unaffected by exposure. However, non‐exposed females in all treatment groups trended toward discrimination against exposed males, which reached statistical significance for the MPEE2 50 group. Female fish exposed to MPs, alone or in association with EE2, were equally likely to approach and associate with non‐exposed and exposed males. The results from this study suggest that MPs may alter social behavior in fishes and that the behavioral impacts of exposure may be more strongly pronounced in females than males. Such individual‐level changes in fitness have the potential to impact population size, with downstream effects on the broader aquatic community.
Potential impact of climatic factors on the distribution of Graphium sarpedon in China
Authors: Liao Wenkai , Zhuo Zhihang , Qian Qianqian , Hu Dan , Xu Danping 
Published: February 2024

AbstractGraphium sarpedon is a significant foliar pest of Laurel plants in China. In this study, the MaxEnt model was used to investigate the distribution of G. sarpedon and predict its potential distribution areas in China in the future (2050s and 2090s) based on three Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP1‐2.6, SSP2‐4.5, and SSP5‐8.5), and key environmental variables affecting its distribution were identified. The results showed that under the current climatic conditions, the suitable distribution areas of G. sarpedon were 92.17°–134.96° E and 18.04°–33.61° N, including Yangtze Plain (Middle and Lower), Pearl River Delta, Yangtze River Delta, and Lingnan areas. Under the future climate conditions, the total suitable distribution area of G. sarpedon decreased, but the area of medium suitable area increased. The study identified 11 key environmental variables affecting the distribution of G. sarpedon, the most critical of which was Precipitation of Warmest Quarter (bio18) and precipitation in April, May, June, and September (prec4, prec5, prec6, and prec9). This study is beneficial for monitoring and preventing the possible changes of G. sarpedon and provides theoretical references for its prevention and control.
Heterozygosity is low where rare color variants in wild carnivores prevail
Authors: Tensen Laura , Fischer Klaus 
Published: February 2024

AbstractCoat color and pattern are a distinguished feature in mammalian carnivores, shaped by climatic cycles and habitat type. It can be expressed in various ways, such as gradients, polymorphisms, and rare color variants. Although natural selection explains much of the phenotypic variation found in the wild, genetic drift and heterozygote deficiency, as prominent in small and fragmented populations, may also affect phenotypic variability through the fixation of recessive alleles. The aim of this study was to test whether rare color variants in the wild could relate to a deficiency of heterozygotes, resulting from habitat fragmentation and small population size. We present an overview of all rare color variants in the order Carnivora, and compiled demographic and genetic data of the populations where they did and did not occur, to test for significant correlations. We also tested how phylogeny and body weight influenced the presence of color variants with phylogenetic generalized linear mixed models (PGLMMs). We found 40 color‐variable species and 59 rare color variants. In 17 variable phenotypic populations for which genetic diversity was available, the average AR was 4.18, HO = 0.59, and HE = 0.66, and FIS = 0.086. We found that variable populations displayed a significant reduction in heterozygosity and allelic richness compared to non‐variable populations across species. We also found a significant negative correlation between population size and inbreeding coefficients. Therefore, it is possible that small effective size had phenotypic consequences on the extant populations. The high frequency of the rare color variants (averaging 20%) also implies that genetic drift is locally overruling natural selection in small effective populations. As such, rare color variants could be added to the list of phenotypic consequences of inbreeding in the wild.
Effects of dispersal and temperature variability on phytoplankton realized temperature niches
Authors: Smith Alaina N. , Barton Andrew D. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractPhytoplankton species exhibit fundamental temperature niches that drive observed species distributions linked to realized temperature niches. A recent analysis of field observations of Prochlorococcus showed that for all ecotypes, the realized niche was, on average, colder and wider than the fundamental niche. Using a simple trait‐based metacommunity model that resolves fundamental temperature niches for a range of competing phytoplankton, we ask how dispersal and local temperature variability influence species distributions and diversity, and whether these processes help explain the observed discrepancies between fundamental and realized niches for Prochlorococcus. We find that, independently, both dispersal and temperature variability increase realized temperature niche widths and local diversity. The combined effects result in high diversity and realized temperature niches that are consistently wider than fundamental temperature niches. These results have broad implications for understanding the drivers of phytoplankton biogeography as well as for refining species distribution models used to project how climate change impacts phytoplankton distributions.
Climate change and the biodiversity of alpine ponds: Challenges and perspectives
Authors: Lamouille‐Hébert Marie , Arthaud Florent , Datry Thibault 
Published: February 2024

AbstractInland waters are among the most threatened biodiversity hotspots. Ponds located in alpine areas are experiencing more rapid and dramatic water temperature increases than any other biome. Despite their prevalence, alpine ponds and their biodiversity responses to climate change have been poorly explored, reflecting their small size and difficult access. To understand the effects of climate change on alpine pond biodiversity, we performed a comprehensive literature review for papers published since 1955. Through analysis of their geographic distribution, environmental features, and biodiversity values, we identified which environmental factors related to climate change would have direct or indirect effects on alpine pond biodiversity. We then synthesized this information to produce a conceptual model of the effects of climate change on alpine pond biodiversity. Increased water temperature, reduced hydroperiod, and loss of connectivity between alpine ponds were the main drivers of biodiversity geographic distribution, leading to predictable changes in spatial patterns of biodiversity. We identified three major research gaps that, if addressed, can guide conservation and restoration strategies for alpine ponds biodiversity in an uncertain future.
Comparison of different macroinvertebrates bioassessment indices in a large near‐natural watershed under the context of metacommunity theory
Authors: Liu Guohao , Qi Xinxin , Lin Zongwei , Lv Yuanyuan , Khan Sangar , Qu Xiaodong , Jin Binsong , Wu Ming , Oduro Collins , Wu Naicheng 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe metacommunity theory proposes that community structure and biodiversity are influenced by both local processes (such as environmental filtering) and regional processes (such as dispersal). Despite the extensive use of traditional bioassessments based on species‐environment relationships, the impact of dispersal processes on these assessments has been largely overlooked. This study aims to compare correlations between various bioassessment indices, including Shannon Weiner (H′), Biological Monitoring Working Party (BMWP), average score per taxon (ASPT), biotic index (BI), and EPT taxa index (EPT), based on macroinvertebrates collected from 147 sampling sites in a subtropical Chinese near‐natural catchment. Modified indices were calculated by removing species strongly influenced by dispersal processes to address the influence of dispersal processes. Their relationship with environmental factors was then compared to the original indices. The study employed random forest regression (RFR) to compare the explanatory power of environmental factors using the two sets of indices. The spearman rank correlation analysis was conducted to examine the correlation between indices and environmental factors. The river health assessment was performed based on both modified and original indices. The results reveal significant differences between original and modified indices (especially H′ and BI) providing a more accurate reflection of environmental conditions. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the different indices to various environmental factors varied, leading to differences in the bioassessment results between the modified and the original indices. Notably, original H′, BMWP, and ASPT overestimated the bioassessment results, whereas the original BI underestimated them. These findings offer valuable insights into bioassessment and river health assessment evaluation within the catchment and other interconnected freshwater ecosystems, such as lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands. Our study underscores the importance of assessing and mitigating the impact of dispersal processes on bioassessment to obtain a more precise representation of the status of freshwater ecosystems.
Strawberry varieties differ in pollinator‐relevant floral traits
Authors: Symington Hamish A. , Glover Beverley J. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA rising global population will need more food, increasing demand for insect pollination services. However, general insect declines conflict with this demand. One way to mitigate this conflict is to grow crop flowers that are easier for insects to find and more rewarding to those that visit them. This study quantifies variation in the pollinator‐relevant traits of nectar and pollen production, flower size and flower shape in commercial strawberry, finding significant variation between varieties in all traits. Bumblebees could learn to distinguish between the extremes of variation in flower shape, but this learning is very slow, indicating that this variation is at the limit of that which can be detected by bumblebees. Bee preferences for nectar of differing sugar concentrations at field‐realistic volumes were consistent with previous observations at larger volumes, suggesting that it is valid to translate lab findings to the field. This study builds on our knowledge of the range of pollinator reward present in a single cultivated species and of the impact of field‐realistic levels of variation in floral traits on bumblebee preferences.
The “Domino effect” in MASLD: The inflammatory cascade of steatohepatitis
Authors: Mladenić Karlo , Lenartić Maja , Marinović Sonja , Polić Bojan , Wensveen Felix M. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractMetabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an increasingly common complication of obesity, affecting over a quarter of the global adult population. A key event in the pathophysiology of MASLD is the development of metabolic‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which greatly increases the chances of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The underlying cause of MASH is multifactorial, but accumulating evidence indicates that the inflammatory process in the hepatic microenvironment typically follows a pattern that can be roughly divided into three stages: (1) Detection of hepatocyte stress by tissue‐resident immune cells including γδ T cells and CD4−CD8− double‐negative T cells, followed by their secretion of pro‐inflammatory mediators, most notably IL‐17A. (2) Recruitment of pro‐inflammatory cells, mostly of the myeloid lineage, and initiation of inflammation through secretion of effector‐type cytokines such as TNF, TGF‐β, and IL‐1β. (3) Escalation of the inflammatory response by recruitment of lymphocytes including Th17, CD8 T, and B cells leading to chronic inflammation, hepatic stellate cell activation, and fibrosis. Here we will discuss these three stages and how they are consecutively linked like falling domino tiles to the pathophysiology of MASH. Moreover, we will highlight the clinical potential of inflammation as a biomarker and therapeutic target for the treatment of MASLD.
Mechanistic Insights into Ru‐catalyzed Alkene Epoxidation with Nitrous Oxide as a Terminal Oxidant
Authors: Timokhin Vitaliy I. , David Grigg R. , Schomaker Jennifer M. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractNitrous oxide (N2O) is a greenhouse gas produced in the manufacture of 6,6‐nylon and nitric acid. While an attractive oxidant that releases only N2 as a by‐product, the kinetic stability of N2O typically requires high temperatures and pressures for activation. This work describes initial kinetics of oxygen transfer in the epoxidation of cholesteryl acetate with N2O catalysed by D4‐Ru(VI)(por)(O)2 complexes in efforts to provide a better mechanistic understanding of this chemistry. Insights include a need for low concentrations of the alkene to avoid competitive binding to the metal, possible saturation behavior at high N2O pressures, transfer of only one oxygen of RuVI(O)2 to substrate and a possible catalyst turnover involving disproportionation of RuIV(O) and RuIV(O)(N2O) to active RuVI(O)2, RuIV(O) and N2. These insights will be used in future designs of improved catalysts and reaction protocols that may operate efficiently at low pressures of N2O and ambident temperature.
Visible Light‐Induced Photoredox and Copper‐Catalyzed C−N Cross‐Coupling: A Mechanistic Perspective
Authors: Talekar Sanjana S. , Dutta Sayan , Mane Manoj V. , Maity Bholanath 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe formation of C−N bonds is a vital technique in organic synthesis for creating nitrogen‐containing motifs, which has extensive uses in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and natural products. Significant progress has been made in constructing C−N bonds using transition metal catalysis. Nevertheless, utilizing alkyl substrates for the formation of Csp3−N bonds is a notable challenge. Synergistic photoredox and copper catalysis have proven to be a powerful tool to tackle this challenge. The development of this research domain is still in its early stages owing to the chemical and technical complexities of this catalytic process. This review attempts to summarize in‐depth mechanistic understanding of the photoredox/copper dual catalysed C−N coupling reactions taking into consideration of recently reported experimental and theoretical studies.
Orientation‐dependent mechanical responses in molybdenum‐rhenium alloys evaluated via micro‐pillars
Authors: Xu Hailong , Huang Li , Zhang Wen , Liang Jing , Gao Xuanqiao , Li Jianfeng 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTextures in molybdenum‐rhenium (Mo‐Re) alloys are inevitable during thermal fabrication. [110] and [100] are common orientations in Mo‐Re alloys and effect mechanical responses. However, orientation dependence of mechanical responses in Mo‐Re alloys is not quite clear yet. To clarity this problem, micro‐pillar compression tests are conducted in grains with orientation [100] and [110] separately. Orientation‐dependent compressive properties are found in Mo‐14Re and Mo‐42Re (wt.%), but are not found in Mo and Mo‐5Re, which may be attributed to activated multi‐slip planes as increased Re. Solid solution effect of Re not only relies on orientations, but also on Re contents. Softening effect occurs in both [100] and [110] Mo‐5Re. while, strong strengthening effect happens in [110] Mo‐14Re and Mo‐42Re. Our research clarifies that Mo‐Re alloys with [110] orientation/texture could be preferred to obtain good strengthening effect.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus facilitates status epilepticus in adult rats: Seizure severity, neurodegeneration, and oxidative stress
Authors: Ramos‐Riera Karen Paola , Beltrán‐Parrazal Luis , Morgado‐Valle Consuelo , Pérez‐Severiano Francisca , Martínez‐Gopar Pablo Eliasib , López‐Meraz María Leonor 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectiveThe goal of this research was to evaluate the effect of DM type 2 (DM2) on SE severity, neurodegeneration, and brain oxidative stress (OS) secondary to seizures.MethodsDM2 was induced in postnatal day (P) 3 male rat pups by injecting streptozocin (STZ) 100 mg/kg; control rats were injected with citrate buffer as vehicle. At P90, SE was induced by the lithium–pilocarpine administration and seizure latency, frequency, and severity were evaluated. Neurodegeneration was assessed 24 h after SE by Fluoro‐Jade B (F‐JB) staining, whereas OS was estimated by measuring lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species (ROS).ResultsDM2 rats showed an increase in latency to the first generalized seizure and SE onset, had a higher number and a longer duration of seizures, and displayed a larger neurodegeneration in the hippocampus (CA3, CA1, dentate gyrus, and hilus), the piriform cortex, the dorsomedial nucleus of the thalamus and the cortical amygdala. Our results also show that only SE, neither DM2 nor the combination of DM2 with SE, caused the increase in ROS and brain lipid peroxidation.SignificanceDM2 causes higher seizure severity and neurodegeneration but did not exacerbate SE‐induced OS under these conditions.Plain Language SummaryOur research performed in animal models suggests that type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) may be a risk factor for causing higher seizure severity and seizure‐induced neuron cell death. However, even when long‐term seizures promote an imbalance between brain pro‐oxidants and antioxidants, DM2 does not exacerbate that disproportion.
Norwegian population‐based study of effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies
Authors: Kostov Konstantin H. , Kostov Hrisimir , Larsson Pål Gunnar , Henning Oliver , Aaberg Kari Modalsli , Egge Arild , Peltola Jukka , Lossius Morten Ingvar 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectiveEvaluate the long‐term efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) compared with epilepsy patients without intellectual disability (ID).MethodsLong‐term outcomes from a Norwegian VNS quality registry are reported in 105 patients with DEEs (Lennox–Gastaut syndrome [LGS] n = 62; Dravet n = 16; Rett n = 9; other syndromes n = 18) were compared with 212 epilepsy patients without ID, with median follow‐up of 88 and 72 months, respectively. Total seizure reduction was evaluated at 6, 12, 24, 36, and 60 months. Effect on different seizure types was evaluated at baseline and last observation carried forward (LOCF).ResultsMedian monthly seizure frequency at LOCF was reduced by 42.2% (p < 0.001) in patients with DEE and by 55.8% (p < 0.001) in patients without ID. In DEE patients, ≥50% seizure reduction at 6 and 24 months were 17.1% and 37.1%, respectively, and 33.5% and 48.6% for patients without ID. Seizure reduction ≥75% at 60 months occurred in 14.3% of DEE patients and 23.1% of patients without ID. Highest median reduction was for atonic seizures, most notably 64.6% for LGS patients. A better effect was seen at 2 years among DEE patients with unchanged medication compared with those with changed medication (54.5% vs. 35.6% responders, p = 0.078). More DEE patients were reported to have greater improvement in ictal or postictal severity (43.8% vs. 28.3%, p = 0.006) and alertness (62.9% vs. 31.6%, p < 0.001) than patients without ID. For both groups, use of the magnet reduced seizure severity. Hoarseness was the most common adverse effect in both groups. In addition, DEE patients were frequently reported to have sleep disturbance, general discomfort, or abdominal problems.SignificanceOur data indicate that VNS is very effective for atonic seizures. Patients without ID had best overall seizure reduction, however, patients with DEE had higher retention rates probably due to other positive effects.Plain Language SummaryDEE refers to a group of patients with severe epilepsy and intellectual disability. Many of these patients have restricted lifestyles with frequent seizures. VNS is a treatment option for patients who do not respond well to medicines, either because of insufficient effect or serious adverse effects. Our study shows that VNS is well tolerated in this patient group and leads to a reduction in all seizure types, most notably for seizures leading to fall. Many patients experience other positive effects like shorter and milder seizures, as well as improvement in alertness.
The sol–gel property of a triple‐helix polysaccharide from Auricularia auricula‐judae and the protective effect on DSS‐induced ulcerative colitis
Authors: Gao Ziwei , Hu Na , Cao Peng , Cheng Jingjing , Qiu Wenxiu , Wang Qi , Chen Xinyan , Chang Cong , Cai Chao , Meng Yan , Xu Xiaojuan 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe development of dietary fibers as safe and effective food additives or nutrients for preventing and alleviating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasingly important. β‐glucans, renowned prebiotics, have shown promise in alleviating IBD symptoms by modulating gut flora diversity and repairing the intestinal barrier. Auricularia auricula‐judae, an edible fungus, contains a β‐glucan with a triple‐helical structure polysaccharide from black fungus Auricularia auricula‐judae (BFP), which exhibits unique sol–gel properties. This study revealed that BFP forms weak gels or sols at increasing concentrations, enhancing swallow ability and extending intestinal transit time, beneficial for patients with dysphagia requiring targeted intestinal administration. The impact of BFP on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced ulcerative colitis was examined, showing that BFP sols maintain intestinal barrier integrity by up‐regulating MUC2, ZO‐1, Occludin, and Claudin expressions and reducing inflammatory factors. Furthermore, BFP sols augmented probiotics abundance, decreased harmful bacteria, and restored Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes balance. These findings suggest BFP sols’ potential as functional food or alternative IBD treatment.