Telomeres are nucleoprotein structures located at the end of each chromosome, which function in terminal protection and genomic stability. Telomeric damage is closely related to replicative senescence and physical aging . As relatively long-lived mammals based on body size, bats display unique telomeric patterns, including the up-regulation of genes involved in alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT), DNA repair, and DNA replication.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFUnderstanding the roles of ecological drivers in shaping biodiversity is fundamental for conservation practice. In this study, we explored the effects of elevation, conservation status, primary productivity, habitat diversity and anthropogenic disturbance (represented by human population density and birding history) on taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional avian diversity in a subtropical landscape in southeastern China. We conducted bird surveys using 1-km transects across a total of 30 sites, of which 10 sites were located within a natural reserve.
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