Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Mateusz Talanda, Vincent Fernandez, Elsa Panciroli, Susan E. Evans, Roger J. Benson
Summary: This study reports the discovery of a nearly complete fossilized skeleton of a stem squamate from the Middle Jurassic epoch in Scotland. The findings provide insights into the origins and evolutionary assembly of squamate anatomy, with support for the molecular phylogenetic hypothesis of early-diverging squamates.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Alessandro Vetere, Michela Ablondi, Enrico Bigliardi, Matteo Rizzi, Francesco Di Ianni
Summary: This study investigated sex determination in Sierra Nevada lizards using cloacal probing and contrast radiography. Results showed that contrast radiography had higher sensitivity for sex determination compared to probing. This technique could be a valid and less invasive method for sexing young lizards.
Article
Psychology, Multidisciplinary
Victor Candia, Martin Kusserow, Oliver Margulies, Horst Hildebrandt
Summary: A study involving 18 musicians found that repeated stage exposure significantly reduces heart rate and restlessness associated with music performance anxiety, resulting in improved performance and subjective experience. These findings highlight the importance of stage training in reducing music performance anxiety and promoting better live performances, as well as preventing stress-related mental disorders and physical injuries in musicians.
FRONTIERS IN PSYCHOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Luigi Rosati, Teresa Chianese, Vincenza De Gregorio, Mariailaria Verderame, Anja Raggio, Chiara Maria Motta, Rosaria Scudiero
Summary: Glyphosate has been widely used as a herbicide due to its high efficiency and low toxicity, but it also has toxic effects on non-target organisms. In this study, the reproductive system of the Italian field lizard was investigated after exposure to the herbicide, revealing significant impairments in ovarian function. The herbicide caused alterations in follicular anatomy, induced thecal fibrosis, and affected oocyte cytoplasm and zona pellucida organizations. These findings suggest serious damage to the reproductive fitness of non-target organisms.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Veterinary Sciences
Teresa Chianese, Roberta Cominale, Rosaria Scudiero, Luigi Rosati
Summary: Soil contaminants, such as herbicides, pesticides, and heavy metals, have a significant impact on terrestrial ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss. This review focuses on the reproductive health risks associated with exposure to glyphosate, the active ingredient in many herbicide products, for the field lizard. The study reveals that glyphosate is toxic to the reptile, affecting the reproductive organs and the liver, a vital detoxifying organ involved in the female reproductive process. The findings suggest that the field lizard can serve as a valuable model organism for studying the reproductive risks and hazards of soil contaminants on wild terrestrial vertebrates.
VETERINARY SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Stephen M. Zozaya, Luisa C. Teasdale, Leonardo G. Tedeschi, Megan Higgie, Conrad J. Hoskin, Craig Moritz
Summary: This study explores multiple dimensions in two species complexes of gekkonid lizards in tropical Australia, and finds that the rock-restricted species, Heteronotia planiceps, exhibits exceptional fine-scale phylogeographical structure compared to the habitat generalist, Heteronotia binoei. Divergence in genomes, ecomorphology, and chemical signals all play a role in the incipient speciation of H. planiceps, with significant divergence observed in chemical signals between lineages.
Article
Biology
Agostina Dematteis, Oscar Anibal Stellatelli, Carolina Block, Laura Estela Vega, Juan Esteban Dajil, Felix Benjamin Cruz
Summary: This study investigated the thermal biology and locomotor performance of the lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii in coastal dunes of Argentina, finding that the species was able to maintain suitable body temperatures in a stressful environment and perform well across a wide range of temperatures.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Daniel Escoriza
Summary: The study found that lizard species endemic to Mediterranean islands are mainly found on islands farther from the mainland, with higher levels of island connectivity showing more endemic species. Mainland species are more prevalent on larger islands. Additionally, endemic lizards tend to occupy niches that align with average environmental conditions, while mainland species are usually found in more peripheral environmental positions.
DIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTIONS
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alejandro Llanos-Garrido, Andrea Briega-Alvarez, Javier Perez-Tris, Jose A. Diaz
Summary: By studying the correlation between genotypes of lizards and environmental factors, the research explored the impact of genetic variation on species distribution range. The results showed that genetic variation can affect species adaptability and distribution range. The experiment supports the relationship between genetic variation and species adaptability and environmental variation.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Luigi Rosati, Teresa Chianese, Palma Simoniello, Chiara Maria Motta, Rosaria Scudiero
Summary: Spermatogenesis is a differentiation process that occurs in the testis and leads to the formation of spermatozoa. Research has found that an imbalance of endogenous compounds or contamination by environmental pollutants can affect sex hormone levels and the final stages of spermatogenesis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biology
Rosa Isela Quintero-Perez, Fausto Roberto Mendez-de la Cruz, Donald B. Miles, Mirna Crizel Chavez Vera, Yolanda Lopez-Ramirez, Diego Miguel Arenas-Moreno, Edith Arenas-Rios
Summary: Temperature is a crucial abiotic factor that affects the performance of physiological traits in ectotherms. Ectotherms have the ability to regulate their body temperature within a certain range to optimize physiological function. In this study, we examined the impact of temperature on locomotor performance, sperm morphology, and viability in a high elevation lizard species. We found that while sprint speed is highest at the preferred body temperature, short-term exposure to the same temperature range resulted in abnormal sperm morphology, decreased sperm concentration, and reduced motility and viability. Based on our findings, there is a trade-off between locomotor performance and male reproductive attributes, potentially leading to infertility. It is important to consider access to cooler thermal microhabitats to enhance reproductive parameters and ensure the persistence of the species.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL BIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marcus Vinicius C. Santos, Arthur S. S. Feltrin, Isabele C. C. Costa-Amaral, Liliane R. R. Teixeira, Jamila A. A. Perini, David C. C. Martins Jr, Ariane L. L. Larentis
Summary: Network Medicine is a useful platform for studying the molecular complexity of complex diseases and identifying disease modules and pathways. It can provide insights into how environmental chemical exposures affect human cells and help monitor and prevent exposure-related diseases. In this study, benzene and malathion-exposed differentially expressed genes were used to construct interaction networks and identify important hub genes associated with these chemicals.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marie E. Bunker, Mark O. Martin, Stacey L. Weiss
Summary: Microbial diversity and community function are related and highly specialized in different gut regions. The cloacal microbiome of S. virgatus females provides antifungal protection to eggshells, suggesting a specialized microbiome. Different gut regions have unique microbial communities, with cloacal swabs showing similarities to lower intestine and cloacal tissues, while faecal samples have higher diversity and distinct composition.
MOLECULAR ECOLOGY RESOURCES
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Paulo Eduardo Silva Bezerra, Francisco Marcante Santana, Geraldo Jorge Barbosa de Moura
Summary: This study focused on assessing the vulnerability to extinction of lizard species in Pernambuco, Brazil. The majority of species did not show vulnerability, while 11 lizards were considered unsustainable with three demonstrating a very high degree of vulnerability. The study detected 16 threats of anthropogenic origin for lizard populations in the region, and half of the species had a low number of embryos per litter. The ranking of vulnerabilities was based on fecundity, distribution, and microhabitat preference, while threats were determined by habitat status and distribution in protected areas.
JOURNAL FOR NATURE CONSERVATION
(2021)
Article
Biology
Nitzan Albeck, Daniel I. Udi, Regev Eyal, Arik Shvartsman, Mark Shein-Idelson
Summary: The study found that the Agamid lizard's sleep exhibits two distinct states, similar to the sleep patterns of mammals and birds. These states switch periodically throughout the night and are believed to be related to the lizard's evolutionary history and adaptations. Unlike mammals, the lizard's sleep patterns are not sensitive to temperature variations and are associated with breathing rate, micro-movements, and eye movements.
COMMUNICATIONS BIOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Attila Csaba Kondor, Anna Viktoria Vancsik, Laszlo Bauer, Lili Szabo, Zoltan Szalai, Gergely Jakab, Gabor Maasz, Marta Pedrosa, Maria Jose Sampaio, Ana Rita Lado Ribeiro
Summary: This review provides a critical overview of research on the removal efficiency of priority substances and compounds of emerging concern through bank filtration, discussing influencing factors and future challenges. The findings show that the efficiency of bank filtration is influenced by multiple factors and varies for different substances.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xinyan Wang, Shuai Zhang, Huihui Yan, Zhao Ma, Yunshan Zhang, Haining Luo, Xueli Yang
Summary: This study investigated the association between ambient PM2.5, O3 pollution, and ovarian reserve in reproductive-aged Chinese women. The results showed that increased exposure to PM2.5 and O3 was associated with decreased AMH levels, indicating reduced ovarian reserve. Notably, the effects of O3 exposure on ovarian reserve were different from those of PM2.5 exposure.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Tingting Ma, Yanjuan Ding, Fengjiao Xu, Chen Zhang, Min Zhou, Ya Tang, Yanrong Chen, Yating Wen, Rufei Chen, Bin Tang, Shigui Wang
Summary: The dragonfly species Orthetrum albistylum can accumulate heavy metals, and its heat shock protein genes have the potential to serve as biomarkers for monitoring environmental pollutants.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Naoto Ishiwaka, Koya Hashimoto, Masayoshi K. Hiraiwa, Francisco Sanchez-Bayo, Taku Kadoya, Daisuke Hayasaka
Summary: Systemic insecticides and rising temperatures have combined effects on the abundance of Odonata nymphs in paddy fields. The standalone effect of insecticide exposure decreased the Odonata community, while nymphs decreased synergistically with temperature rise in paddy water. However, the impacts of each stressor alone varied among species.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Marco Vecchiato, Carlo Barbante, Elena Barbaro, Francois Burgay, Warren R. L. Cairns, Alice Callegaro, David Cappelletti, Federico Dallo, Marianna D'Amico, Matteo Feltracco, Jean-Charles Gallet, Andrea Gambaro, Catherine Larose, Niccolo Maffezzoli, Mauro Mazzola, Ivan Sartorato, Federico Scoto, Clara Turetta, Massimiliano Varde, Zhiyong Xie, Andrea Spolaor
Summary: The Arctic region is facing contamination from long-range pollution and local human activities. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are used as environmental indicators for emission, transport, and deposition processes. Research conducted in the Arctic surface snow in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard from October 2018 to May 2019 shows that long-range inputs of PAHs mainly occur in winter, while the most abundant analyte retene exhibits opposite seasonal trends.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Maoshui Zhuo, Zhijie Chen, Xiaoqing Liu, Wei Wei, Yansong Shen, Bing-Jie Ni
Summary: This paper discusses the application of three catalytic processes (photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and biocatalysis) in the management of microplastic pollution, and introduces the efficiency and catalytic mechanisms of different catalysts. It also proposes the development prospects for sustainable management of microplastic pollution.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Shiyu Chen, Zhenzhen Shi, Qiang Zhang
Summary: In this study, a human physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of diethyl phthalate (DEP) was developed to assess its toxicity. The model considers the distribution and metabolism of DEP and its active metabolite monoethyl phthalate (MEP) in different tissue compartments. Sensitivity analysis and Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulations were performed to evaluate the uncertainty and variability of the model parameters. The results suggest that dermal absorption is an important route of exposure to DEP in the environment.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Bangguo Wang, Lijing Wang, Wenxi Cen, Tao Lyu, Peter Jarvis, Yang Zhang, Yuanxun Zhang, Yinghui Han, Lei Wang, Gang Pan, Kaili Zhang, Wei Fan
Summary: This study investigates the feasibility and mechanisms of a chemical-free nanobubble-based AOP for treating organic micropollutants in water. The results show that the oxygen nanobubble AOP has a significantly higher removal efficiency compared to air and nitrogen nanobubbles. The treatment performance is not affected by pH and the presence of ions. Higher initial concentrations of the micropollutant lead to slower treatment processes, but similar removal performance is achieved in the end. The presence of organic matter reduces the removal rate of the micropollutant. The results have practical feasibility for water and wastewater treatment.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yingmei Huang, Jicai Yi, Yao Huang, Songxiong Zhong, Bin Zhao, Jing Zhou, Yuxuan Wang, Yiwen Zhu, Yanhong Du, Fangbai Li
Summary: This study investigates the impact of biochar on methylmercury (MeHg) accumulation in rice. The results show that biochar reduces MeHg levels in paddy soils by decreasing bioavailable Hg and microbial Hg methylation. Additionally, biochar decreases the uptake and translocation of MeHg in rice plants, resulting in a reduction of MeHg accumulation in rice grains.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Nengde Zeng, Fei Huang, Jiani Du, Chenghao Huang, Qian Yang, Xinhua Zhan, Baoshan Xing
Summary: This study investigates the protein targets and protein-ligand interactions related to PAH contamination in crop xylem sap using computational tools. The results show that phenanthrene has a more pronounced effect on the xylem sap proteins of maize and wheat, with maize DEPs associated with lipid biosynthesis and wheat DEPs exhibiting an increase in ABC transporters. This study provides insights into the regulation and movement of PAHs within plant xylem.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xinwei Chen, Hao Ma, Run Wang, Man Wang, Binbin Zhu, Yanqing Cong, Xiayue Zhu, Guoqin Wang, Yi Zhang
Summary: Co3O4/TiO2-NRs electrodes with excellent photoresponse were prepared via plasma-assisted modification of Co3O4 on TiO2. The combination of Co3O4 and TiO2 improved the light utilization efficiency and showed potential for degradation of pollutants.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Wenjing Ji, Liying Song, Jing Wang, Hongqing Song
Summary: This study conducted a life-cycle assessment to examine the correlation between natural gas consumption and carbon emissions in different end uses in China. The results showed that both natural gas consumption and life-cycle carbon emissions have been increasing since 2017. Significant variations in NG life-cycle carbon emissions were found across different provinces and sectors, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Youyi Chen, Boxuan Zhang, Pojun Zhang, Guogui Shi, Hao Liang, Wu Cai, Jingyu Gao, Sumin Zhuang, Kaiyin Luo, Jiaqi Zhu, Chaoxiang Chen, Kunyu Ma, Jinrong Chen, Chun Hu, Xueci Xing
Summary: The synergistic effects of trace sulfadiazine and cast-iron corrosion scales on the formation of disinfection by-products in drinking water distribution systems were investigated. The presence of magnetite resulted in increased concentrations of DBPs due to the higher microbial activity and enhanced microbial extracellular electron transport pathway. The study highlights the importance of considering trace antibiotics pollution and corrosion scales in water sources for DBP control.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Bishwa Raj Pokharel, Vijay Sheri, Manoj Kumar, Zhiyong Zhang, Baohong Zhang
Summary: This review summarizes the interactions, uptake, and transport of aluminum nanoparticles (Al-NPs) in plants, highlighting their negative effects on plant growth and development, as well as their potential to alter plant defense systems and gene expression.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yonglu Wang, Fengsong Zhang, Xiaoyong Liao, Xiao Yang, Guixiang Zhang, Liyun Zhang, Chaojun Wei, Pengge Shi, Jiongxin Wen, Xiaorong Ju, Can Xu, Yang Liu, Ying Lan
Summary: This study aims to explore the effects of thiencarbazone-methyl center dot isoxaflutole on soil microflora and the potential mitigation mechanisms to bacterial communities. It was found that increasing the application of thiencarbazone-methyl center dot isoxaflutole resulted in increased stress on soil bacterial community structure and diversity. Increasing soil pH was recognized as a key factor in improving the diversity and structure of soil microflora. Supplemental use of nitrapyrin or modified attapulgite can increase soil pH and improve bacterial diversity.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)