Search Results (7,340)

The persistence and hazardous potential of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), with compounds such as anthracene and phenanthrene, raise significant concerns about human health and environmental safety. PAHs are ubiquitous environmental pollutants originating from natural processes and anthropogenic activities, notably fossil fuel combustion. Due to their stability, they tend to accumulate in ecosystems, posing risks to wildlife and human health through bioaccumulation and potential carcinogenicity. Conventional remediation techniques, such as physical adsorption and biological treatment, often fall short in their efficiency and long-term sustainability. Thus, there is an urgent need for innovative methods that can effectively degrade these persistent organic pollutants. Here, we reviewed recent advancements in the photocatalytic degradation of anthracene and phenanthrene, with a focus on metal oxide-based nanocomposites. The major points were: (1) Metal oxides such as TiO₂, ZnO, and CuO, recognized for their photocatalytic properties (they show significantly enhanced efficiency when utilized as a part of nanocomposites, primarily due to the improved charge separation, increased surface area, and numerous active sites); (2) The review of the photocatalytic mechanisms involved in PAH degradation, particularly through the generation of reactive oxygen species that can break down anthracene and phenanthrene into less harmful compounds; and (3) The insights into the formed intermediates and reaction pathways, which can help to deepen the understanding of PAH breakdown and support the design of more efficient catalytic systems for future environmental remediation applications. Full article

Although canine parvovirus (CPV) vaccination has been widely implemented, CPV continues to circulate in dog populations and poses a potential cross-species transmission risk to wildlife, including giant pandas. Recent increases in CPV-2c detection in China highlight the need for molecular surveillance and standardized immunoreagents for diagnosis and epitope mapping. This study aimed to isolate a representative CPV-2c strain from China and develop VP2-targeted nanobody-based recognition molecules to support antigen monitoring and detection optimization. Canine and giant panda samples were collected in Sichuan Province, and CPV was isolated in F81 cells, followed by VP2 gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. A secretion expression system in Bacillus subtilis was established to produce VP2-targeting nanobodies, and a canine Fc-fused format of Nb10 (Nb10-Fc) was constructed. Immunoreactivity was evaluated via immunoassays, and structural modeling and molecular docking were performed to predict binding interfaces. The results showed that CPV-2c was the dominant genotype in Sichuan, with CPV L4 being a representative strain that exhibited 100% identity in VP2 with a giant panda-derived CPV-2c strain. Nb10 and Nb10-Fc demonstrated strong reactivity in Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays. The Fc-fusion improved detection sensitivity, offering potential in vivo application benefits. This study provides a standardized VP2-specific nanobody and molecular system for CPV-2c surveillance, antigenic studies, and diagnostic optimization. Full article

Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) domestication, likely associated with dry-rice farming in central Thailand, has led to substantial loss of ancestral immune-related genetic diversity in commercial chicken lineages. This study addresses allelic loss by providing the first comprehensive analysis of the highly polymorphic BG1 gene, an MHC-linked marker across the wild–domestic interface in Thailand and Vietnam, using high-depth Illumina amplicon sequencing. Genomic DNA from 47 Thai and Vietnamese chicken populations was extracted using a salting-out protocol following ethical sampling. Allelic variation was examined by targeting the BG1 intron 15–exon 16 region using triplicate PCR and Salus Pro NGS sequencing. Evolutionary dynamics and selection pressures were analyzed using AmpliSAS, MrBayes, and Datamonkey, while AlphaFold 3 was used to predict and validate 3D protein structures. We identified 98 novel alleles and 172 polymorphic sites within the BG1 intron 15–exon 16 region encoding an Ig-like domain. Extensive allele sharing between indigenous chickens and red junglefowl indicated strong balancing selection and trans-species polymorphism. Selection analyses showed that purifying selection conserved structural integrity at codons 9, 13, and 18, while variation at other sites enhanced immune recognition. AlphaFold 3 modeling confirmed conservation of the β-sandwich fold across variants, maintaining stability of the Immunoreceptor Tyrosine-based Inhibition Motif (ITIM). Thus, despite the regional gene flow, geographic isolation has shaped distinct signatures, as evidenced by the presence of 38 unique Thai and 9 unique Vietnamese alleles in addition to breed-specific private markers in the Betong (BG1*TH88), Decoy (BG1*TH91), and Tre (BG1*VN54) populations. A notable adaptive outlier under positive selection (ω = 1.357) was detected in the Dong Tao population, suggesting a recent selective sweep. These findings support the mission of the Siam Chicken Bioresource Project (SCBP) to utilize indigenous breeds as genetic reservoirs and provide a molecular basis for restoring resilience traits in domestic poultry to enhance global food security. Full article

Climate change has exacerbated natural hazards, including wildfires. In recent years, wildfires have become stronger and more frequent, threatening not only human lives worldwide but also ecosystems and wildlife. The proliferation of remote sensing data and derived variables has enabled deep learning models to help authorities to understand, mitigate, and manage wildfires. In this context, our work presents FireEx, a modality-aware Ensemble-of-Experts model for next-day wildfire spread prediction using remote sensing data of wildfires in Canada and Alaska. The dataset contains multi-source remote sensing data to segment next-day incremental wildfire growth, using the previous 24 h data. FireEx is based on a U-Net-designed multi-kernel Convolutional Neural Network, and is a combination of three models: two experts based on fuel data and weather data, respectively, and a generalist model trained on all the input channels of the dataset. The two experts and the generalist are trained independently and fused together using averaging. FireEx demonstrates strong performance with an F1-score of 48.9%, and ablation studies demonstrate the robustness of the architecture design, showing degraded performance when one of the experts is removed, therefore highlighting the importance of each expert and the generalist model. To the best of our knowledge, FireEx is the first Ensemble-of-Experts model for wildfire spread prediction, offering a modality-aware design approach and laying the groundwork for similar architectures in the field. Full article

This study examines structural features that may impact the hunting/trapping of small, fur-bearing animals over time. The prior literature suggests a relationship between species, ecological and human well-being that renders hunting trends of social interest. In that view, factors affecting hunting trends have policy relevance related to how species maintenance/health affects ecosystems and human well-being. This study employs data on twelve fur-bearing species taken by hunting/trapping in Wisconsin from 1930 to 2018. Prior research has identified several predictors of hunting trends (e.g., pelt prices, snow and rainfall amounts, temperature, gasoline prices and urbanization). Controlling for the effect of the prior level of hunting, few exogenous factors predicted species-specific hunting trends in Wisconsin. Macro-factors predicted that hunting trends are outside the control of wildlife regulators and may require innovative strategies to address. The results suggest that some omitted processes may be better predictors of hunting trends. Full article

The Patagonian huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus) and the Southern pudu (Pudu puda) are native South American cervids that differ in body size, ecology, and conservation status. However, quantitative evidence linking vertebral trabecular microarchitecture with biomechanical behavior in these species remains scarce. This study aimed to comparatively characterize vertebral trabecular bone structure and its mechanical response using an integrative, non-destructive approach. Vertebral bodies from cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions were analyzed using high-resolution micro-computed tomography to quantify structural parameters, followed by finite element analysis to estimate deformation and von Mises stress under standardized axial compression. Both specimens exhibited consistent regional variation, with cervical vertebrae showing lower density and organization, and thoracic–lumbar vertebrae displaying denser trabecular networks. The Southern pudu specimen appeared to present a more homogeneous microarchitecture and a relatively uniform mechanical response along the vertebral column. In contrast, the Patagonian huemul specimen tended to show greater structural heterogeneity, with apparently higher deformation and stress values, particularly in the cervical region. These findings suggest that trabecular organization may contribute to the differences in vertebral mechanical behavior observed between the analyzed specimens. This study provides a preliminary comparative baseline for understanding skeletal adaptation and structural vulnerability in South American cervid species. This exploratory analysis is based on single specimens per species and should be interpreted as preliminary evidence rather than population-level inference. Full article

The growing interest in clean-label and naturally preserved foods has pushed the scientific community to research essential oils (EOs) as sustainable, multifunctional alternatives to chemical preservatives. These plant volatile compounds exhibit strong antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, making them promising ingredients for natural preservation. Fermented meat products, though highly nutritional, are particularly at risk of microbial spoilage and contamination by foodborne pathogens due to their complex microbiota and processing conditions. This review examines the role of EOs as natural antimicrobials in fermented meat systems, summarizing their mechanisms of action, efficiency against key pathogens, and impact on safety, shelf life, and sensory attributes. Additionally, it discusses technological challenges related to volatility, stability, and sensory alterations, and outlines mitigation strategies such as encapsulation, nanoemulsions, and controlled-release delivery systems. By critically presenting current progress and identifying research gaps such as standardization and matrix interactions, this review contributes to the development of effective, natural, and clean-label preservation strategies. These insights support innovation and sustainability in the meat processing industry by bridging the gap between antimicrobial efficacy and sensory acceptability. Full article

Since 2022, numerous H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) detections have been reported in wild and domestic mammals in North America. Although H5N1 HPAIV detections in dogs are rare, hunting dogs that retrieve waterfowl are at increased exposure risk due to their physical contact with reservoirs (waterfowl) and contaminated environments. A cross-sectional survey of hunters was conducted during 2024 to characterize hunting procedures, disease prevention practices, and interactions between humans and their hunting dogs to identify potential risks for zoonotic disease transmission. Descriptive analysis (N = 112) indicated a majority of participants considered their hunting dog as part of the family (93.8%), and less than half considered their dog a pet (42.9%). Of the 112 individuals, 96.4% did not utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling a sick dog and 81.3% did not use PPE when handling harvested birds. This research demonstrated complex, sustained physical and personal connections between individuals and their hunting dogs. Additional research utilizing a One Health approach is necessary to define H5N1 HPAIV risk factors in hunting dogs and the environment’s role in the transmission of viruses among wildlife and domestic animals. Understanding zoonotic disease transmission in these populations can inform approaches to mitigate viral exposure. Full article

The use of non-biodegradable plastic food packaging materials has become a major environmental concern. These plastics release chemicals and microplastics during degradation, harming wildlife and entering the food chain, posing risks to both environmental and human health. This study aimed to evaluate electrospun poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) mats incorporating natural antibacterial Thymus vulgaris L. extract (TE) and natural crosslinker citric acid (CA) as alternative food packaging materials. Packaging mats with TE and/or CA combinations in PVP were evaluated for their structural, chemical, optical, and shelf-life-enhancing effects on blueberries. The results show that dissolving PVP in TE extract and adding CA in PVP ethanol-water or TE-based solutions significantly affected the viscosity and conductivity of the electrospinning solutions, thereby influencing the morphology of electrospun mats. FTIR analysis confirmed the incorporation of TE into the polymer and indicated CA induced hydrogen bonding, interactions that may reduce the polymer chain mobility and increase the brittleness of the electrospun mat. In tests with blueberries, it was estimated that the commonly used traditional food film minimized blueberry weight loss, whereas the porous electrospun PVP and PVP/TE mats allowed greater moisture release and preserved better visual quality by reducing wrinkling and dehydration. Overall, electrospun PVP-based mats functionalized with TE show promise as sustainable food packaging materials that balance moisture management with product appearance. Full article

A common challenge when modeling social–ecological systems (SESs) is defining the spatial extent of the system. Boundaries that do not adequately capture both social and ecological processes and their interactions can lead to mischaracterization of the system, while expanding boundaries too widely can impact model complexity and required resources. Socially, boundaries can invoke and influence identity, culture, power, and sense of place. Boundary decisions benefit from flexible, iterative approaches and the expertise of local communities. Here, we use a structured database search supplemented with citation searching to identify and review the literature that addresses choosing or defining spatial boundaries in SESs mapping or modeling and, when applicable, how participatory methods were used in the research process. In a review of the resulting 79 studies, we discovered that pre-existing social or ecological boundaries were used most frequently (36 and 18 publications, respectively). Twenty-one publications combined social and ecological boundaries or data to create custom boundaries, and four studies used an alternative approach to conventional boundaries. Informed by the literature review, we present a general framework for defining boundaries at the outset of SES research. We then connect the framework to a specific case study based on a collaborative project with Tribal, university, and federal scientists to develop a social–ecological climate adaptation plan. We present guiding questions alongside candidate boundaries for our study system and explore the tradeoffs of these boundary options, which can function as a useful template for other social–ecological research collaborations. Full article

Over the past decade, veterinary forensic toxicology has gained increasing relevance due to the recognition of animal poisoning as a criminal, environmental, and public health concern. This review provides an updated overview on current perspectives in veterinary forensic toxicology, focusing on common toxicological scenarios, analytical innovations, and interpretative challenges. Intentional poisoning of companion animals, wildlife intoxication, and environmental contamination are discussed within a One Health framework. Mass spectrometry-based techniques, including targeted gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) for non-targeted screening, and emerging ambient mass spectrometry approaches are highlighted as pivotal tools in modern forensic investigations. Major limitations related to post-mortem changes, species-specific toxicokinetic, and the lack of harmonized interpretative criteria are critically examined. The review also identified future priorities such as methodological standardization, expansion of toxicokinetic databases across species, detection of emerging contaminants, and strengthened international cooperation. Overall, veterinary forensic toxicology is an emerging discipline at the intersection of animal welfare, environmental conservation, and public health providing essential evidence for legal, regulatory, and investigative purposes. Full article

Anthropogenic activities and environmental changes have exerted an increasingly high impact on the habitats of wild animals, especially endangered species. Researchers have paid attention to the effects of future climate change on wildlife habitats. However, the impact of climate change on the suitable habitats of Tragopan birds has rarely been reported. Here, we used the Maxent model to assess the influence of climate change on the geographical distribution of five Tragopan species. The results showed that the SSP585 scenario projected relatively favorable conditions, with the total area of suitable habitats expected to show an overall increasing trend over time. Centroid analysis revealed that the centroid gradually shifts toward lower latitudes and elevations due to climate warming. Environmental factor analysis showed that human-induced factors (particularly land use) are the main determinants affecting the habitat suitability of Tragopan birds. Notably, a comparison between dispersal velocity and biological velocity showed that despite the predicted gradual expansion of habitat area, Tragopan birds may be difficult to expand into the newly suitable habitat regions. We further emphasize that establishing ecological corridors and setting up new protected areas will have a more significant impact on conserving the Tragopan birds. Full article

In Cambodia, farmers construct artificial household bat roosts to collect and sell guano as fertilizer. We investigated farming practices and attendant spillover risks using (1) surveys on guano production; (2) an estimation of bat population size and species present using carcasses, visual identification, and audio recordings; (3) surveys of guano-producing and neighboring households on water, sanitation, and hygiene practices; and (4) the testing of guano and household food, water, and surfaces for coronaviruses using RT-qPCR. Bat roosts are constructed using dried palm leaves with coconut tree and/or steel/concrete supports. Roosting areas ranged from 42 to 327 m², bat abundance varied from 0 to 11,187, guano production was between 5 and 120 kg/week, guano yields were from 0.15 to 0.4 kg/m²/week, and farmers earned USD ~100–200/household/month. Higher guano production in the peak (normally wet) season was associated with greater bat abundance (p = 0.016). The lesser Asiatic yellow house bat (Scotophilus kuhlii) was the only bat species identified. Roosts were <20 m from guano-producing households. Neighbors and households’ hygiene risks included not having handwashing stations and not covering food in storage/while drying. Coronaviruses (Alphacoronaviruses or Infectious Bronchitis Virus) were detected in 14.6%, 17.3%, 2.9%, 1.4%, and 0.0% of guano, urine, household surface, food, and water samples, respectively. While guano farming offers economic benefits, spillover risks exist. Safe guano collection and storage, handwashing, and food covering in guano-producing communities are necessary to mitigate spillover risks. Full article

Climate change is altering the marine environment in many ways, including increasing sea surface temperatures and decreasing sea ice. Species distributions are changing and ‘out of habitat’ marine mammals are being recorded. ‘Out of habitat’ (OOH) refers to individuals recorded outside of their natural range or within environments unsuitable for their survival. This phenomenon is currently understudied. This study aimed to identify the scale of the issue, identify consensus opinions on trends and possible causes of these OOH events, as well as assessing the preparedness of local authorities and rescue networks in responding to OOH marine mammals. This study is the first to assess and quantify this issue through a formal consultation process, conducted through an online questionnaire and a detailed examination of two case studies, from the UK and Peru. Sixty-three questionnaire responses were received from six different continents and the majority (60%) reported OOH events in their region. Through the questionnaire and case studies, 44 different marine mammal species were reported to be affected. This clearly indicates this is a global phenomenon, affecting at least 34% of all known pinniped and cetacean species. Most participants (77%) also believed these OOH events are increasing, and 55% believe these events are forerunners to distribution changes. Data from Peru showed an endangered species, the Galápagos fur seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis), had made a range shift. Of the reported OOH species, four are classified as either endangered or critically endangered. The consensus opinion was that climate change is the leading driver of these OOH events, with sea surface temperatures and changes in prey distribution reported as the most important factors. The success of OOH responses was reported as highly inconsistent and, in many cases, requires specialist training, e.g., in human–wildlife conflict. The information derived from this study can be used to advise conservation plans, as well as provide a foundational step for future research into the possible trends in these OOH movements. Full article

Property development, roads, vehicles, and suburban sprawl cause biodiversity habitat fragmentation. Some herpetofauna are at risk from a conservation perspective. This phenomenon is simultaneously a road ecology and a public health problem. The article analyzes the impact of “campus-based growth machine” development on herpetofauna habitat fragmentation around various wetlands in uptown Albany, New York, U.S. This study fills an unresearched gap on the impact of the campus-based growth machine, roads, vehicles, and suburban sprawl on biodiversity habitat fragmentation. The research methods comprised both qualitative and quantitative assessments of property development inventories, wildlife observations, student engagements and biodiversity monitoring at the University at Albany, the cataloging of test-design and conservation measures, and the review of institutional planning regulations and roadway design features. The key finding is the need for more biodiversity conservation innovations to increase the continuity of habitats, uniform underground crossings, and the elimination of biodiversity road crossing deaths. The article presents research and management practice recommendations. The study shows a plausible association between university expansion and biodiversity reductions on campus grounds. It also identifies potential mitigation measures and opportunities for community service collaborations. Full article