Search Results (52)

Background/Objectives: Desert plants exhibit remarkable resilience to extreme environments, and their capacity for population establishment is noteworthy. However, the adaptation process mechanisms of those plants to harsh habitats, particularly concerning intraspecific differentiation and genetic diversity, remain poorly understood, and a comprehensive framework is lacking. Zygophyllum loczyi Kanitz, an annual or biennial desert herb, demonstrates significant phenotypic plasticity across diverse habitats. Methods: Using mixed-effects models, this study examined 20 populations from four deserts to assess phenotypic variation and predict trait_environment relationships. Results: The findings indicated substantial inter-population phenotypic differentiation in Z. loczyi, with greater variation observed between deserts than within them. Traits such as blade length, petal length, sepal length, and stamen length were influenced by environmental conditions. Mixed-effects model prediction showed that the growth location of Z. loczyi significantly impacted its phenotypic traits. The characteristics of the four desert populations displayed varying responses to temperature and moisture changes, with the most pronounced response noted in the Gurbantunggut desert (Gt) population, indicating that survival stress has an important influence on the performance of plants. The single nucleotide polymorphisms result further confirmed that the differentiation and genetic diversity of the Gt population displayed the highest selection pressure, resulting the small effective size of the population. Conclusions: This study uncovers the adaptive mechanism of Z. loczyi to habitat through investigating the inter-population phenotypic differentiation and genetic diversity and provides new insight into local adaptation and evolutionary processes in the desert environment. Full article

This paper examines the challenges of our hyperconnected society through the lens of Daoist philosophy, specifically drawing on the thoughts of Laozi and the Zhuangzi. This study begins by analyzing the broad implications of hyperconnectivity in contemporary society, highlighting how unprecedented levels of interconnection shape modern human experience. The analysis identifies three critical challenges in our hyperconnected world: the individual cognitive level (where connected subjects experience confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance); the structural level (where systemic forces diminish individual autonomy and create unpredictable outcomes); and the amplified social level (where the interaction between individual and structural factors intensifies social division, isolation, systemic risks, and cascading failures). This paper approaches these challenges through three key Daoist concepts: Dao as the foundational principle of reality, Qi as the underlying logic of interconnection, and the complementary principles of Wu-wei (non-action) and Ziran (self-so-ness) as frameworks for managing desire. These concepts yield two crucial insights: the need to deepen our understanding of connectivity’s practical dimensions and the importance of maintaining critical distance between means and ends through persistent questioning of fundamental principles. As technological advancement and material concerns increasingly dominate society, Daoist philosophy offers both a warning about the potential loss of human essence and practical guidance for maintaining purposeful awareness through Wu-wei and Ziran. The concept of Qi further illuminates humanity’s fundamental embeddedness in universal interconnection. This paper concludes by proposing ways to bridge theory and practice, emphasizing expanded awareness of connectivity, philosophical inquiry into essence, and the enduring relevance of humanistic wisdom. Full article

Copper complexes have attracted significant interest for catalyzing oxidative dehydrogenative carboxylation of alkanes to form esters. Here, we report a heterogeneous catalyst, in which copper complexes are immobilized on coal-bearing kaolin for the synthesis of allylic esters via C(sp³)-H bond activation through cross-dehydrogenation coupling reactions between cyclic alkanes and aromatic carboxylic acids. Systematic optimization of reaction conditions—including catalyst loading, copper content, oxidant, temperature, and reaction time—resulted in a high yield of 71% of allylic ester, comparable to homogeneous transition metal catalysts. The catalyst is easily recoverable via centrifugation and retains its activity over five consecutive reuse cycles. This system demonstrates broad substrate compatibility with various aromatic carboxylic acids and cyclic alkanes. Beyond offering an efficient and reusable catalytic route for allylic ester synthesis, this work highlights the potential of coal-bearing kaolin as a sustainable support material for transition metal catalysis and provides an environmentally benign method for activating inert C(sp³)–H bonds. Full article

This work develops a unified size-dependent shear deformation theory (SDSDT) to analyze the free vibration behavior of a functionally graded (FG) magneto-electro-elastic (MEE) microplate under fully simply supported conditions, open- or closed-circuit surface conditions, biaxial compression, magnetic and electric potentials, and uniform temperature changes based on consistent couple stress theory (CCST). The FG-MEE microplate is composed of BaTiO₃ (a piezoelectric material) and CoFe₂O₄ (a magnetostrictive material). Various CCST-based SDSDTs, considering couple stress and thickness stretching effects, can be reproduced by employing a generalized shape function that characterizes shear deformation distributions along the thickness direction within the unified SDSDT. These CCST-based SDSDTs encompass the size-dependent classical plate theory (CPT), first-order shear deformation theory (SDT), Reddy’s refined SDT, exponential SDT, sinusoidal SDT, and hyperbolic SDT. The unified SDSDT is validated by comparing its solutions with relevant three-dimensional solutions available in the literature. After validation and comparison studies, we conduct a parametric study, whose results indicate that the effects of thickness stretching, material length-scale parameter, inhomogeneity index, and length-to-thickness ratio, as well as the magnitude of biaxial compressive forces, electric potential, magnetic potential, and uniform temperature changes significantly impact the microplate’s natural frequency. Full article

To elucidate the regional flavor characteristics of sun-dried green tea (SDT) and their underlying influencing factors, a comprehensive analysis was conducted using metabolomics and flavoromics approaches. This study systematically examined SDT samples and their corresponding tea garden soils from 13 distinct regions in Yunnan Province. The results revealed that the SDT samples could be classified into two distinct groups based on their flavor profiles. Compared to the regions of Pa Sha (PS), Bang Dong (BD), Dong Ban Shan (DBS), Dong Guo (DG), Su Hu (SH), Gua Feng Zhai (GFZ), and Wu Liang Shan (WLS), the regions of Xin Nong (XN), Ba Ka Nuan (BKN), Mang Ang (MA), Man Nuan (MN), Bing Dao (BDao), and Bin Shan (BS) exhibited a significant upregulation of the tea polyphenols (TP)/free amino acids (FAA) ratio. The former group was characterized by a sweet mellow taste, while the latter displayed a stronger taste profile. Furthermore, the analysis of volatile compounds demonstrated that geraniol and linalool were significantly upregulated in the PS, BD, DBS, DG, BS, and BDao regions, which were associated with tender and floral aromas. In contrast, isophorone, 2-pentyl furan, 1-octanol, D-limonene, and benzaldehyde were markedly enriched in the XN, BKN, MA, MN, SH, GFZ, and WLS regions, contributing to sweet and honey-like aromatic profiles. Altitude and mineral element phosphorus are potential key factors affecting the regional flavor differences in SDT. Specifically, SDT cultivated at higher altitudes and in soils with elevated available phosphorus content exhibited a greater likelihood of accumulating sweet mellow and floral compounds. This study provides scientific evidence for understanding the characteristic flavor profiles of SDT across different regions, offering valuable insights into the factors contributing to regional flavor differentiation in tea production. Full article

On 5 November 2020, a poisoning event involving four people by the consumption of moray eel occurred in Khanh Hoa Province, Viet Nam, with signs indicative of ciguatera. The remaining moray portion was confiscated for identification of causative species and responsible toxins. The phylogenetic study based on COX1 identified the moray as Gymnothorax javanicus Bleeker (1859). Out of 17 marine lipophilic toxins (MLPs) that were analyzed using LC-MS/MS, only Pacific ciguatoxin-1 (P-CTX-1) was detected in the moray’s flesh at 1.30 ± 0.004 ng/g ww, while no toxin was found in the skin. The N2a assay’s ciguatoxicities in the skin and flesh were 0.69 ± 0.075 and 2.49 ± 0.216 ng P-CTX-1/g ww equivalent, respectively. In the N2a assay, the P-CTX-1 amount in the moray flesh was 1.9 times greater than that determined by LC-MS/MS, indicating the presence of additional sodium channel activators or a matrix effect. The P-CTX-1 amount in the moray flesh was at a level that generates major ciguatera poisoning (CP) symptoms in humans (1.0 ng/g P-CTX-1), makes sense given that four consumers experienced the onset of poisoning symptoms. This study is significant for the management of seafood safety since it is the first scientific report on the species and toxin in a moray causing ciguatera in Viet Nam. Full article

This study used an embedding technique to prepare microcapsules with tea tree oil as the core material and a composite of β-cyclodextrin and nano-montmorillonite as the wall material. The prepared microcapsules were analyzed for their morphological characteristics, thermal stability, and major components. Additionally, the microcapsules’ effect on the quality of and active substances contained in refrigerated strawberries was investigated. The results revealed that the optimal preparation conditions for the microcapsules were a montmorillonite addition of 2% (m/v), a core-to-wall ratio of 1:12 (m/m), an encapsulation temperature of 70 °C, and an encapsulation time of 90 min. Under these conditions, the microcapsules achieved an encapsulation efficiency of 77.67%. The capsules emitted a noticeable aroma of tea tree oil, and their primary components, specifically terpinen-4-ol, 1,8-cineole, p-cymene, and terpinolene, were consistent with those of tea tree oil. The release rate of the microcapsules at 60 °C and 90 °C was significantly lower than that of liquid tea tree oil (p < 0.05). A suitable treatment with tea tree oil microcapsules preserved the appearance and quality of the strawberries, inhibited spoilage during refrigeration, reduced weight loss, maintained firmness, delayed declines in soluble solid contents and acidity in later storage stages, and enhanced the activity of the superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase. The prepared microcapsules also suppressed increases in anthocyanins and inhibited the further maturation of the stored strawberries. The optimal preservative effect was achieved with the placement of 5.0 g of tea tree oil microcapsules per 1.2 L of storage space. Full article

Gamasid mites (Acari: Mesostigmata) are ecologically diverse arthropods, many of which act as vectors for zoonotic diseases such as rickettsial pox and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. This study investigates the faunal and ecological patterns of gamasid mites across five zoogeographic microregions in Yunnan Province, China, a biodiversity hotspot with complex topography. From 1990 to 2022, 18,063 small mammal hosts (primarily rodents) were surveyed, yielding 167 mite species (141,501 specimens). The key findings include the following: (1) Low host specificity: most mite species parasitized >10 host species, with Laelaps nuttalli, L. echidninus, Dipolaelaps anourosorecis, L. guizhouensis, L. turkestanicus, and L. chini dominating (>76.59% abundance). (2) Environmental heterogeneity: mountainous and outdoor habitats exhibited higher mite diversity than flatland/indoor environments. (3) Zoonotic risks: thirteen vector species with low host specificity were identified, potentially amplifying disease transmission. (4) Ecological niche dynamics: high niche overlaps (e.g., Laelaps guizhouensis vs. L. xingyiensis: O_ik = 0.997) and positive interspecific correlations (e.g., L. echidninus vs. L. nuttalli: R = 0.97, p < 0.01) suggest co-occurrence trends on shared hosts. (5) Biogeographic patterns: mite communities were clustered distinctly by microregion, with the highest similarity being obtained between western/southern plateaus (IV and V) and unique diversity in the Hengduan Mountains (I). (6) Chao 1 estimation predicted 203 total mite species in Yunnan, 36 of which were undetected in the current sampling. These results highlight the interplay of biogeography, host ecology, and environmental factors in shaping mite distributions, with implications for zoonotic disease surveillance in biodiverse regions. Full article

To reveal the global regulation of photosynthetic electron transport (PET) in shade plants, the changes in chlorophyll a fluorescence induction kinetics (CFI) curves and proteomics were investigated using Hosta varieties. There was a significant difference in CFI curves between Hosta ‘Fire Island’ and other varieties (such as Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’) grown under weak light. Weak light induced the appearance of the W phase of CFI curves in the two varieties, which was consistent with a clear decrease in the oxygen-evolving complex and a large upregulation of photosystem (PS) II proteins. In Hosta ‘Fire Island’, the O-J rise of the CFI curves increased faster under weak light than under appropriate light, and this was not only accompanied by a large upregulation of the PS II protein but also a great downregulation in cytochrome b₆/f, plastocyanin, and PS I. Moreover, weak light resulted in a considerable increase in photosynthetic rate and Rubisco abundance in Hosta ‘Fire Island’, yet the non-photochemical quenching and abundance of CP24 declined significantly. By contrast, weak light had fewer effects on these parameters in Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’. Therefore, we suggest that the PET is mainly affected by the abundance of PS II, oxygen-evolving complex, cytochrome b₆/f, plastocyanin, and PS I in Hosta plants grown under weak light; meanwhile, the improved photosynthetic capacity under weak light was mainly related to the enhancement of light energy absorption and capture of PS II as well as the increase in the abundance of Rubisco. Full article

This paper delves into the connection between Zhuangzi’s mystical philosophy and its potential application to nonviolent resistance movements. It argues that the cultivation of inner peace, as advocated by Zhuangzi, can serve as a powerful foundation for individuals to engage in peaceful social change. Zhuangzi, a prominent figure in ancient Chinese thought, emphasized the importance of achieving harmony with Dao, the natural order of the universe. His mystical teachings centered on concepts like the “Pu 樸” (perfect natural state), “Xiao Yao You 逍遙遊” (Free and Easy Wandering) and “Qi Wu Lun 齊物論” (Equalizing Things and Equalizing Theory), as well as “Xin Zhai 心齋” (Fasting of the Mind) and “Zuo Wang 坐忘” (Sitting and Forgetting). This paper explores how these mystical concepts can be interpreted as a call for inner peace and tranquility. The paper then examines how inner peace, as envisioned by Zhuangzi, can empower individuals to participate in nonviolent resistance. It suggests that achieving inner peace allows individuals to transcend feelings of anger, resentment, and violence, fostering a sense of compassion and understanding towards their opponents. This inner peace, in turn, can fuel the courage and determination necessary to engage in peaceful protests and civil disobedience. By exploring the connection between Zhuangzi’s mysticism and nonviolent resistance, this paper aims to shed light on an alternative approach to social change. It argues that inner peace, cultivated through mystical experience, can be a powerful tool for individuals seeking to create a more just and peaceful world. Full article

This paper delves into the convergence of Laozi’s Daoist mysticism with the principles of ecofeminism, highlighting the potential for ancient wisdom to inform contemporary issues of gender and environmental justice. Through an examination of the Dao De Jing, we uncover insights into a holistic approach to social justice that integrates ecological sustainability and gender equality. Laozi’s teachings, characterized by the principles of Dao, Wu-wei, and Ziran, offer a foundational framework for understanding the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of living in harmony with the natural world. By analyzing relevant passages and concepts from the Dao De Jing, this paper demonstrates how Daoist philosophy aligns with and enriches ecofeminist values, advocating for a society that honors the balance between humanity and nature and recognizes the integral role of women in achieving environmental and social harmony. This paper presents case studies that illustrate the practical application of Daoist principles in ecological feminist practices, shedding light on the successes and challenges of integrating ancient philosophical insights into modern activism. The fusion of Daoist mysticism and ecofeminism provides a compelling vision for addressing the intertwined challenges of gender inequality and environmental degradation, suggesting pathways toward a more just, sustainable, and harmonious world. In doing so, it calls for a reimagined approach to social justice that is deeply informed by an understanding of ecological sustainability and gender equality as mutually reinforcing goals. Full article

The influence of different levels of sodium chloride, sodium nitrite, and glucose on the quality characteristics of spontaneously fermented goat meat sausage was investigated. The amounts of total biogenic amines in all the sausages ranged from 324.70 to 388.77 mg/kg; among them, spermine was the most abundant, with amounts ranging from 230.96 to 275.78 mg/kg. Increasing sodium chloride from 15 to 35 g/kg, the content of cadaverine, putrescine, tyramine, phenylethylamine, tryptamine, and total amines decreased, and Enterobacteriaceae counts decreased at the same time. Increasing sodium nitrite from 150 to 250 mg/kg, the content of cadaverine, histamine, and total amines decreased, while Enterobacteriaceae counts decreased simultaneously. Increasing glucose from 10 to 40 g/kg, the content of cadaverine, spermidine, and total amines decreased. Enterococcus was the most abundant genus across all the samples, and the relative abundance of Enterococcus was reduced obviously by increasing sodium nitrite and glucose levels. The top 10 differential bacterial taxa for each additive group were respectively obtained, and microbial biomarkers for each level of additive within its group were acquired, respectively. Through Pearson correlation, Lactobacillus was positively correlated with phenylethylamine, tryptamine, tyramine, and cadaverine, Bacteroides and Sediminibacterium were positively correlated with phenylethylamine and putrescine, respectively, suggesting they have the potential to produce biogenic amines. The results provided references for controlling the accumulation of biogenic amines in fermented goat meat sausage via the addition of auxiliary additives during the processing. Full article

α-Farnesene, a crucial secondary metabolite in sesquiterpenes, is crucial for plant biotic and abiotic stress resistance. In this study, we screened an AFS gene from transcriptome data of tea plants (Camellia sinensis) intercropped with Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima), resulting in the cloning of CsAFS2. CsAFS2 expression increased following treatment with MJ (Methyl jasmonate), SA (Salicylic acid), GA₃ (Gibberellin A3), and various plant growth regulators, as well as under high-salt, drought, and low-temperature conditions. The heterologous genetic transformation of tobacco with CsAFS2 led to an enhanced resistance to low-temperature stress and aphid feeding, evident from elevated levels of osmotic regulatory substances, increased protective enzyme activity, and the upregulation of cold and insect resistance-related genes. Trichomes, crucial in cold and insect resistance, exhibited significantly greater length and density in transgenic tobacco as compared to control plants. These results confirm the vital role of CsAFS2 in enhancing cold and insect resistance, providing comprehensive insights into stress regulation mechanisms in tea plants and advancing stress-resistant tea plant breeding. Full article

Survival and death are the two most important things in life. The ancient Chinese people attached great importance to death, so the funeral ceremonies were very complete. Since its inception, Taoism has actively participated in funeral activities, so the combination of epitaphs and tomb inscriptions has a historical origin. The establishment of a unified dynasty in the Sui Dynasty provided an opportunity for the integration and development of Taoism in the north and south. The Mao Shanzong (茅山宗) in the southern region began to spread to the north, gradually integrating Lou Guan Dao (樓觀道) and becoming the mainstream of Northern Taoism. The epitaph of Wu Tong in the Sui Dynasty is engraved with rich Taoist symbols, and the epitaph text adopts the language content of “Zhen Gao” (真誥), which is a typical representative of the integration of Northern and Southern Taoism and reflects Taoism’s concern for death. Full article

This paper aims to unravel the underlying resonance between the Daoist Way and the Deleuzian idea of an aleatory point. The Daoist Way is explicated as the zhong dao 中道 or the Middle-Way, viewed in terms of interactivity between such Daoist-seeming polarities as you/wu (determinate/indeterminate) and Yin and Yang. The first part of the paper approaches the Daoist Way in terms of the concept of zhong 中 or the “Middle”, to explore the functionality of the Way and to comprehend the Chinese philosophical concept of the Middle, using the Deleuzian lens of the “aleatory point”. The “Middle” here is understood as process, change, or flux, whose volatility is not representational or repeatable. It is this irrepresentability that renders the concept of the “Middle” comparable with the Deleuzian notion of aleatory point. The second part of the paper probes the most fundamental paradoxes revolving around the Daoist Middle-Way to unveil the relationship between the Way and Chaos and to deconstruct the traditional misconception of Yin/Yang dynamics as unity. Full article