A study published in Forest Ecosystems reveals Douglas-fir introduction have limited biodiversity impacts, showing no significant effect in 78.6% of cases, with only 9.4% negative outcomes. While canopy spiders benefit from its dense structure, arthropod diversity is reduced due to the distinct bark structure. Based on the limited studies retrieved by the review, it is reported that Douglas-fir inclusion has non-significant or neutral effects. Key knowledge gaps remain regarding bat populations and long-term soil impacts. The findings position this North American species as a viable climate-resilient option for European forestry, pending further research to establish safe implementation thresholds.

In a paper published in National Science Review, a Chinese team of scientists conducted an analysis on how changes in Arctic snow and ice cover affect cloud short-wave radiative effects, using satellite observations and climate model data. The study found that even under conditions where cloud properties remain unchanged, the melting of snow and ice can trigger an enhanced clouds’ short-wave cooling effect. The enhanced cooling effect can partially slow down the melting process, while it cannot reverse the overall decreasing trend of ice and snow.

Chinese scientists have found a way to make flexible tandem solar cells more efficient and durable by enhancing the adhesion of top layers to the bottom layers of the cell.

A genetically engineered protein featuring dual uranyl-binding sites significantly improves uranium extraction efficiency from seawater. The innovative strategy provides a promising candidate for uranium extraction and valuable insights for designing protein-based adsorbents to enhance metal ion adsorption capacity.

Meiosis is the core process of sexual reproduction. Proper spindle assembly and chromosome alignment are essential for the successful completion of meiotic division. Abnormal spindle assembly and chromosome misalignment often lead to female infertility. R-loops are three-stranded nucleic acid structures composed of DNA-RNA hybrids and the displaced single-stranded DNA, and they play critical roles in gene transcription, DNA replication, and DNA damage repair. However, the dynamic localization and regulatory mechanism of R-loops during oocyte meiotic division remain unclear.

To determine the presence of female germline stem cells (FGSCs) in postnatal mammals under physiological and pathological conditions. We explored the presence of FGSCs using various models, including mice of different ages, an ovarian mouse model with mechanical injury, and a rat model of endometriosis. Moreover, we investigated the feasibility of inducing FGSCs in vitro using cultured ovarian tissues and employed the differential adhesion method for isolating FGSCs. For labeling FGSCs within the ovary, we employed markers such as mouse VASA homolog (MVH)/ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) and 5-Bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU). Our investigations revealed that FGSCs were not detectable in any of our models, across all conditions tested. Our experiments provide evidence for the viewpoint that no FGSC exists in the ovaries of postnatal mice or rats, and then support that mammalian ovaries do not produce new oocytes after birth.

To address the limitations of contemporary lithium-ion batteries, particularly their low energy density and safety concerns, all-solid-state lithium batteries equipped with solid-state electrolytes have been identified as an up-and-coming alternative. Among the various SEs, organic–inorganic composite solid electrolytes (OICSEs) that combine the advantages of both polymer and inorganic materials demonstrate promising potential for large-scale applications. However, OICSEs still face many challenges in practical applications, such as low ionic conductivity and poor interfacial stability, which severely limit their applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent research advancements in OICSEs. Specifically, the influence of inorganic fillers on the main functional parameters of OICSEs, including ionic conductivity, Li⁺ transfer number, mechanical strength, electrochemical stability, electronic conductivity, and thermal stability are systematically discussed. The lithium-ion conduction mechanism of OICSE is thoroughly analyzed and concluded from the microscopic perspective. Besides, the classic inorganic filler types, including both inert and active fillers, are categorized with special emphasis on the relationship between inorganic filler structure design and the electrochemical performance of OICSEs. Finally, the advanced characterization techniques relevant to OICSEs are summarized, and the challenges and perspectives on the future development of OICSEs are also highlighted for constructing superior ASSLBs.