Appropriate Garden Design of Primitive Ecology Based on the Indigenization of Environmental Ethics

The accelerating urbanization process leads to aggravated environmental problems, thus garden design which is a creative activity connecting human and nature has attracted much attention, and also garden designers have had to rethink about environmental ethics and morals. This study, from the perspective of environmental ethics, duly proposed the brand-new concept of 'appropriate garden of primitive ecology', proceeded from the orientation, form, value, theoretical basis, realistic significance, culture and consumption psychology of 'garden of primitive ecology', fully developed outstanding ecological wisdoms and morals in traditional Chinese garden culture, boosted garden designs to the environmental ethics level of eco-justice, to seek for the approach to 'garden of primitive ecology' with indigenous Chinese environmental ethic characteristics.

Pioneering a New Realm of Human Rights Civilization in the Chinese Path to Modernization——An Overview of the Symposium on“The Chinese Path to Modernization and the Promotion of Free and Comprehensive Human Development”

On October 14,2023,a symposium themed“The Chinese Path to Modernization and the Promotion of Free and Comprehensive Human Development”was held in Changchun,Jilin Province,China.More than fifty experts,scholars,and researchers from national institutions and universities engaged in discussions and exchanges on human rights on the Chinese path to modernization,including the path,practice,knowledge systems,and civilization forms of human rights.This symposium played a significant role in advancing the construction of the disciplinary system,academic system,and discourse system of human rights in China.

Thirty Years of Political Science in China： From Learning from the West to Indigenization

The article reviews the development of political science in China in the last century, especially in the last 30 years. It shows that the discipline has gone through two stages, namely, uncritical learning and gullible emulating. It is entering a new stage： conscious indigenization of political science. It argues that indigenization is not an easy task even for indigenous academics. Therefore a project of indigenization requires a conscious and active effort on their part. Without critical introspection, indigenization is impossible.

Volcanic Risk Perception and Coping Strategies from Mounts Cameroon and Nyiragongo Eruptions, Central Africa: A Comparative Analysis

Approximately 2,000,000 people are exposed to volcanic risks in communities situated at the flanks of Mounts Cameroon (MC) and Nyiragongo (MN) volcanoes in Central Africa. This study therefore sought to investigate risk perception from four previous eruptions of MC, namely the 1959, 1982, 1999, and 2000 eruptions;and two previous eruptions of MN: 1977 and 2002. The study was initiated with co-design workshops held with major stakeholders in the cities of Buea and Goma at the flanks of MC and MN, respectively, in 2017, to develop the research objectives for the study. A non-random questionnaire survey was later conducted within 14 and 15 communities in Buea and Goma respectively, on the effects, perceived risks, and coping strategies for the chosen eruptions. Three age groups (18 - 30, 31 - 45 and >45 years) and gender (male and female) were considered. The population at the flanks of both volcanoes cited scientific and indigenous factors to be responsible for eruptions from these volcanoes. At MC and MN, ≥45% of the sampled participants (with a higher female population) perceived that the sampled eruptions posed a very high risk to the population. In terms of the effects, the age group of 18 - 30 was the least knowledgeable. In terms of direct effect on persons, over 90% of participants at MC and MN attested that they were overcome by fear/panic. On measures to cope with any likely eruption, the following order was established at the flanks of both volcanoes: sensitization of population, use of religious (prayers) and of traditional/indigenous strategies. In terms of future coping strategies, while the males at MC maintained sensitization as the favourite option, 62% of the males at MN opted for traditional/indigenous strategies. The female population at both MC and MN showed a higher preference for religious strategies like prayers.

Translated Illustration and the Indigenization of Christianity in Late Qing Chinese Christian Novels

＂Intersemiotic translation＂ is categorized by Roman Jakobson as one of three types of translation. Translation of illustrations in the late Qing novels, either directly from verbal signs or visual signs, can also be regarded as a typical kind of ＂intersemiotic translation.＂ The present article studies illustrations in Chinese Christian literature in the late Qing period, especially those in the Chinese translations of John Bunyan＇s works, The Pilgrim＇s Progress and The Holy War. Questions to ponder are how inter-semiotic translation occurs between these illustrations--in either transferring or transplanting the meanings from one sign system to another--and how it establishes its legitimacy through religious negotiation, ideological conflict, and cultural integration. The illustrations in the Chinese translation versions of The Pilgrim ＂s Progress manifest the translators＇ and illustrators＇ manipulation of repertoires of Chinese religious signs, thereby indigenizing a foreign religion. These illustrations, nevertheless, are not only associated with Christianity, but also with the long-lasting visual signs of Chinese culture. Hence these translated illustrations could be considered as a type of ＂Translated Christianity.＂

Potential Benefits of Bioactive Compounds of Traditional Rice Grown in South and Southeast Asia:A Review

Traditional rice varieties have been widely cultivated and popularly consumed by Asian people for a very long time and have recently garnered increased consumer concern.Traditional or indigenous rice varieties are known to be rich in a wide range of bioactive compounds,particularly phenolic compounds,flavonoids,tannins,anthocyanins,proanthocyanidins,phytic acids,andγ-oryzanol.We have identified 32 phenolic acids,including hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives,and 7 different flavonoids in rice varieties.These bioactive compounds have unique physiological effects on human health.Additionally,rice grains exhibit nutraceutical potential for antidiabetic,antiarthritic,anti-inflammatory,antibacterial,and antitumor activities.In this review,we critically analyzed the bioactive components of traditional rice and their nutraceutical potential in protecting against harmful microbial activities.To ensure that future generations have access to these beneficial substances,it is crucial to preserve traditional rice varieties.

Nutritional and nutraceutical variability in neglected niger(Guizotia abyssinica(L.f.)Cass.)accessions from Eastern Ghats of India

The exploitation of neglected niger accessions plays a crucial role in future breeding programs aimed to enhance the quality.Present study evaluated the genetic variation in nutritional and nutraceutical compositions of 30 indigenous niger accessions originating from Eastern Ghats of India,and compare them with three improved varieties of the locality.The proximate compositions(g/100 g)showed significant variations,with moisture ranging from 1.36 g to 4.95 g,ash from 1.06 g to 5.45 g,fat from 28.53 g to 44.11 g,protein from 8.84 g to 18.18 g,carbohydrate from 11.21 g to 35.09 g,fiber from 16.32 g to 26.62 g,and energy from 407.32 kcal to 526.84 kcal.Niger seeds are rich in phenol 41.10–82.20 mg/g,flavonoid 5.32–15.98μg/g,antioxidant 13.59–31.08%across the accessions.Principal component analysis revealed that the first two axis explained 41.8%of the total variation,indicating significant differences among genotypes.The heritability and genetic advance in percent of mean(GAM)ranged from 61.11%to 99.91%and 12.5%–89.1%among the traits across the populations.High heritability and GAM recorded in vitamin C,ash content,antioxidant capacity,flavonoid and phenol suggests that these traits may be important for niger breeding program.Altogether,some indigenous niger accessions such as Mangardora,Ganjeipadar and Kolabnagar had exceptionally rich in fat,protein and energy contents and are nutritionally superior compared to improved variety of the locality.Further,exceptional rich in flavonoid,antioxidant capacity and vitamin C was recorded in Manahar,Badapada and Mahadeiput.These nutrition rich accessions have ample opportunities for future breeding programs aimed to enhance the quality and hold great potential in food industry for making high value functional food.

Socio-Psychological Factors of Rising Trend of Suicidal Ideation among Indigenous Workforce: Evidence from Himalayan Range

Apart from socio-economic disparities,indigenous people of the Himalayan range in Asia face an increasing trend of suicides.The tragic suicidal events usually go unaddressed,and no strategies are presently in place to mitigate suicides in the future.This study aims to explain the prevailing causes of suicidal ideation to come up with some policy recommendations.Through a preliminary survey,we identified social stigma,social isolation,lack of healthcare facilities,and domestic violence as the potential reasons for suicidal ideation.We identified individuals with suicide ideation for further data collection to test the relationships between the identified variables and suicidal ideation.A quantitative,explanatory and cross-sectional design was used to test the hypotheses.Inferential statistics were applied to the data containing 314 responses,and the results revealed that all the predictive variables influence the formation of suicidal ideation.The study uncovered some new dimensions of social stigma and social isolation that are common among the indigenous people.The results also indicate that some domestic violence is socially acceptable and considered a normal familial matter.Thefindings have theoretical and practical implications.We have identified new dimensions of social stigma,social isolation,and domestic violence that are new additions to the existing bank of literature.It provides insights to encourage public authorities,healthcare providers,and NGO managers to play their role in the right direction to mitigate the problem.This study opens further venues for researchers to investigate the complex issue of suicide more deeply.

Breast Cancer Treatment (Mastectomy Experiences) May Initiate Individuation Process That Redefines Identities: A Systematic Review

This systematic literature review examines the impact of breast cancer treatment experiences, with a focus on mastectomy, on the psychosocial well-being of women. While previous studies have shown that mastectomy is associated with negative psychological outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and a loss of femininity, a new body of literature suggests that it can also be a catalyst for post-traumatic growth and personal transformation. The article argues that mastectomy experiences can initiate an individuation process that leads to a more empowered sense of self and a higher quality of life. The review identified 25 studies that employed qualitative methods and analyzed data from interviews, focus groups, and surveys. The article discusses the application of Jung’s individuation theory to categorize the experiences of women with breast cancer and links breast cancer diagnosis and treatment to the death-experience stage of the theory. The content highlights the importance of movement, contemplation, and spirituality in the healing process, and how they can help women connect with their bodies and develop a new sense of identity. Additionally, the content discusses the role of spirituality in enhancing growth and healing among indigenous native women patients with breast cancer. Overall, this article provides insights into how breast cancer treatment experiences can shape women’s identity, enhance resilience, and provide opportunities for personal growth and transformation.

Malaria Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors among Batwa Indigenous People of Kanungu District in Southwestern Uganda: Does “Place” Matter?

Introduction: Malaria is an important disease, causing high morbidity and mortality, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Measuring malaria prevalence using malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs), particularly among a vulnerable population sub-group, is a vital public health step in discovering effective methods of prevention and control. This study set out to examine the association between “place” and other risk factors with malaria prevalence among Batwa Indigenous People (IP). Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study design was implemented. Two surveys January 2014 (n = 572) and April 2014 (n = 541) involving interviews and testing for malaria using mRDTs were conducted in 10 Batwa settlements where a total of 1113 Batwa of all ages were surveyed and tested. The data were first compiled in MS Excel and then imported and analyzed using STATA ver.14. Descriptive statistics, were generated, followed by bivariable and multivariable regression model analysis to establish associations between the predictor and outcome variables with p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Overall prevalence was 13.94% (n = 146). There is a significant relationship between settlement (place) and malaria prevalence AOR 11.7, 95% CI (1.38 - 98.93), p-value = 0.02. More males 16.97% (n = 84) tested positive compared to females 11.23% (n = 62) but there was no statistically significant association between gender and mRDT (p-value > 0.005). Children less than 5 years registered high prevalence and there was a significant relationship between age and mRDT (p-value ≤ 0.005). Wealth proxy indicators showed no association with prevalence p-value = 0.390. Season had no association with prevalence (p-value = 0.80). However, the proportion of the day spent in the forest/woodlands was significantly associated with malaria prevalence COR 12.83, 95% CI (1.14 - 143.73) p-value = 0.04. Low elevation was significantly associated with malaria prevalence COR 2.42, 95% CI (1.32 - 4.41), p = 0.004 but sleeping under a net and level of education did not show any association with malaria prevalence. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of place in predicting malaria prevalence among Batwa Indigenous People a marginalized and remortely located sub-population. This study has shown that place matters in determining malaria prevalence. However, other factors like age, elevation and gender also contribute to malaria prevalence. Batwa have higher prevalence than the national and even non-indigenous populations in the same district. We recommend targeting hotspots intervention approach since it has proven reasonable impact on reducing malaria prevalence.

Perception of Local Populations of Bouba-Ndjidda National Park on Indigenous Knowledge and the Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity Conservation

This study deals with the perceptions of indigenous knowledge in the field of conservation and the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the peripheral villages of the Bouba-Ndjidda National Park (PNBN), Department of Mayo-Rey, Cameroon. To this end, 23 out of 70 villages in the study area were selected, for a sample of 368 households surveyed through a questionnaire addressed to the heads of households. Data collection took place from August 27 to December 22, 2022. The results reveal that 70.7% of the population living near the PNBN practice agriculture as their main income-generating activity, followed by livestock (23.3%) and trade (6%). Knowledge in the field of the conservation of natural resources is rooted in occultism through rituals and sacrifices (99.50%) offered to the geniuses of nature and prohibitions on the felling of trees and sacred animals (13.00%). The populations perceive climate change through the variation of the seasons (97.60%), the increase in temperature (84.80%), the reduction in the duration of the rainy seasons (54.60%), the drop in agricultural yield (84.80%) and floods (74.70%). The consequence of these changes on wildlife is the disappearance of animal species such as the Rhinoceros, the Wild Dog, the Cheetah and the Ostrich. In order to cope with climate change, the natives have developed strategies such as the adoption of early crop varieties (maize, millet, soybeans, etc.), the reorganization of the agricultural calendar, the practice of reforestation, extension of field surfaces, the cessation of excessive deforestation and uncontrolled bush fires, the construction of fired brick houses, the practice of irrigation, seasonal migration and occultism. This indigenous knowledge is a perfect adaptation to climate change and makes it possible to better take into account the vision of local populations in the conservation of biodiversity.

Indigenous Breeding Practices in Guinea Fowl (Numida meleagris) as Influenced by Plumage Features in Northern Cameroon

The objective of this work was to draw up an inventory of environmental and anthropogenic factors linked to indigenous breeding practices of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) influenced by plumage characteristics. The information was collected using the snowball technique and using a formal questionnaire developed (AU-IBAR, 2015). The dominant plumage is pearl gray with a frequency of 38.89% followed by black (13.85%). In total, 154 adult animals were lost by operators with a frequency of 22.95%. According to plumage, white comes first with a frequency of 51.61% followed by Lavender plumage (36.58%). Predation is the major constraint with a frequency of 35.72%. The guinea fowl most targeted by predators are the white guinea fowl with a frequency of 56.25%, while predation is low for black plumage (25%), royal purple (33.34) and pearl gray (34.69). The pearl gray guinea fowl and the royal purple guinea fowl appear to have a more developed wild instinct, which explains the frequency of recorded escapes. White plumage is perceived as being more docile during breeding and tends to exhibit better resistance to heat stress compared to other phenotypes, making it more valued for traditional rituals. Dark plumage seems more sought after in breeding for its supposed prolificacy, its resistance to infections and its weight. According to breeders, the dominance relationship mainly depends on the number of individuals of the same plumage. Dark plumage in significant numbers in most flocks seems to have dominance in terms of food and choice of sexual partners, which would explain their large numbers.

Towards Inclusive Development: Situating the Socio-Economic Wellbeing and Environmental Issues of an Indigenous Cultural Community in the Philippines

The Municipality of Carranglan is a rural community where agriculture is the main source of livelihood. The Kalanguya Ancestral Domain (KAD) is also located in the area, and it provides a home for the Kalanguya indigenous cultural community. They have fled to the area for a variety of reasons. Despite its rural setting, Carranglan is regarded as a first-class municipality and the largest municipality in Nueva Ecija. This study described and documented the socio-economic profile, and existing issues and problems the Kalanguya Indigenous Peoples (IPs) experienced in their milieu, especially in terms of environmental protection. Recognizing and valuing their perspectives is vital for inclusive development. This study also situated the current status and conditions of the IPs, who generally live below the poverty line and face a range of plights and challenges. As part of safeguarding indigenous rights and interests, this study was undertaken after series of consultations with community elders and leaders. Key informant interviews, household surveys, semi-structured interviews, focused-group discussion (FGD), and direct observations were used to elicit information. Many of the respondents are elementary undergraduates which show that the community had lacked access to education. The following are the primary socioeconomic issues confronting IPs: insufficient access to potable water, suboptimal agricultural productivity, meager monthly income, and a dearth of supplementary and alternative livelihood opportunities. Forest fires, landslides, encroachment of illegal loggers, and concerns about wildlife resources are some of the current environmental issues they have encountered. The local population was supportive of plans and actions targeted at improving the environment. This reveals that the IPs possess unique indigenous forest expertise that enables them to properly manage natural resources.

Prevalence of Myocilin Gene Mutation in Adult-Onset Primary Open Angle Glaucoma and Non-Glaucoma Subjects Who Are Indigenes of Rivers State, Nigeria

Background: Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness incapacitating over 80 million people worldwide. Several pathogenetic mechanisms have been postulated to explain the optic nerve damage that occur in POAG among which genetic predisposition is prominent. Gene-Linkage-based studies have identified genes associated with POAG: Myocilin, Optineurin, WDR36, Tank-Binding Kinase (TBK1) and APbb-2. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of myocilin gene mutation in adult-onset POAG patients and non-glaucoma subjects who are indigenes of Rivers State. Methodology: In this comparative cross-sectional study, 393 POAG patients attending the Glaucoma Clinic of UPTH were compared with 393 age and sex-matched phenotypically normal participants. Clinical assessment combined with findings from clinical records was used. Venous blood was obtained for genomic analyses. Extracted DNA was sequenced with specific primers for myocilin and polymerase chain reaction. Zymo-Bead Genomic DNA kit protocol was used to detect allelic differences. Results: Total of 786 participants participated in the study. The mean age was 59.8 ± 11.8 years. The prevalence of myocilin gene mutation (MYOC) in the study population was 5.3%, in the POAG group was 8.4%, and 2.3% in the non-glaucoma group. This observed difference was statistically significant (p = 0.001). Location of the mutant myocilin gene was in GLC1A 171638779, 171638703, 171638610 and 171638608. Conclusion: Mutations in myocilin gene are associated with adult-onset POAG in Rivers State. Its relevance as a biomarker for diagnosis of adult-onset POAG needs further investigations.

Expression of Indigenous Landscapes in the Design of Modern Urban Squares

Modern urban square landscapes have been evolved to be with more regional and cultural features, yet the phenomenon of duplication is serious in urban square landscapes in China. In this study, the connotation of indigenous landscape is analyzed from the perspectives of local culture, integration of Chinese and western cultures, folk cultures and modern marketing, the causes of duplicated urban square landscapes are thoroughly elaborated. In view of the deficiencies of modern urban square landscapes, it is proposed that local plants, local ornamental materials and patterns should be fully applied in square designs, and the expression of detail landscapes should be attached sufficient importance, to completely demonstrate regional features of landscapes and better apply indigenous landscapes into the design of modern urban squares.

Towards an Effective Communication in the Care of Patients with Long Term Disease in Kenya via Cybernetic—A Systematic Review

In this paper, to effectively treat chronic disorders and improve the standard of care, effective communication between patients and healthcare professionals was essential. The aim of the study was to review the literature on how good communication might improve treatment outcomes for Kenyan patients with chronic and terminal illnesses and to determine whether Cybernetic electronic communication can improve those outcomes even more. We uncovered the history of treatment outcomes for chronic and terminal diseases in this research study, both with and without communication at the core of the patient’s care plan. We discussed the importance of good communication in the treatment of patients with chronic and terminal illnesses and why it is a momentous endeavor comparable to medical diagnosis and treatment for the long-term health of patients. To locate pertinent material for the background literature study, we carried out a comprehensive literature search. Although the preliminary literature review was a continuation of the introduction research, it also highlighted the paucity of local Kenyan literature and suggested that improved communication might help patients with chronic and terminal illnesses have better treatment outcome. Methodology maintained the literature search, as a systematic literature review focused on core of the study, making separate sections of the same body necessary. This ensured that a methodological literature search section is as comprehensive as possible. We used an integrated PRISM model to limit a comprehensive literature search and a systematic literature review design as part of the overall process. Non-probability sampling and snowball approaches on literary papers over the previous 17 years were used in this arrangement. Since this was a multidisciplinary study, the four experts who also serve as authors were chosen from within their respective fields of expertise to design the study. They created search strategies, generated key words, looked up keywords in database engines, assessed the results of the literature using the PRISMA logical model, looked over successful literature, and triangulated their findings. The conclusions of the experts individually revealed a convergence of thoughts, beliefs, and practices across. The study concluded that even though there isn’t much research done in Kenya on the same subject;what is available illustrates how crucial good communication is for patients with chronic illnesses. The study’s findings also highlighted the positive effects of effective communication between patients and healthcare professionals on treatment plan adherence, patient satisfaction, and overall health outcomes. The results also noted that in order to improve patient care and outcome, Kenyan healthcare workers should underscore developing their communication skills. The study also found that the incorporation of cybernetics is crucial if a truly effective communication is required so as to enable centered care for patients with long-term diseases in Kenya. The goal of the Cybernetics is to activate genuinely effective communication in the care of Patients with long-term disease in Kenya. This study is organized to begin with an abstract, followed by keywords, an introduction, literature review, methodology, findings, discussion, and finally conclusions.

Association of Polymorphisms of Leptin Gene with Body Weight and Body Sizes Indexes in Chinese Indigenous Cattle

PCR-SSCP was used to analyze the polymorphism of leptin gene in 539 samples of six cattle breeds, namely Nanyang （NY）, Qinchuan （QC）, Jiaxianred （JXR）, Xizhen （XZ）, Luxi （LX）, and Holstein cow （HOL） breeds. PCR products with a 330 bp were amplified and sequenced. The results showed that the frequencies of alleles A/B of NY, QC, JXR, XZ, LX, and HOL breeds were 0.558/0.442, 0.492/0.508, 0.571/0.429, 0.658/0.342, 0.591/0.409, and 0.615/0.385, respectively. The association of variations of leptin gene with growth traits in NY, QC, JXR breeds was analyzed. Some indexes of the individuals with genotype BB were higher than that with genotype AA and AB in NY breed, such as the indexes of body length, heart length, body weight, hucklebone width, body height, and average day gain. The height at hip cross of the individuals with genotype BB was higher than that of those with genotype AA and AB in QC breed （P 〈 0.05）. So leptin gene may be one of the candidate genes for growth traits with height at hip cross, but not for body weight, heart length, and body length trait. However, the height at hip cross and hucklebone width of the individuals with genotype AB and BB were higher than that of those with genotype AA in JXR breed （P 〈 0.05）, but the difference was not statistically significant in body weight and body sizes （body height, body length, and heart length）. And the polymorphisms in leptin gene were caused by G→T transversion at the 66th bp position, A→C transversion at the 67th bp position and G→T transversion at the 299th bp position. These results may be applied to marker-assisted selection of Chinese cattle breeds.

Preliminary Report on the Successful Breeding of the Endangered Fish Sinocyclocheilus grahami Endemic to Dianchi Lake

The fish Sinocyclocheilus grahami is one of the indicative and endemic species in the Dianchi Lake ecosystem. As a result of pollution and invasion of exotic fishes, the fish had disappeared from Dianchi Lake since 1986 and only a few small populations survive in springs and streams around the lake. Due to the endangered status and special scientific value, S.grahami was listed as the second class protective animal of China in 1989. The importance of S. grahami and the indigenous biodiversity of Dianchi Lake were recognized by the Global Environment Foundation （GEF） /World Bank and Yunnan Development ＆ Reform Committee. Therefore a special grant was set up to restore and conserve the indigenous biodiversity of Dianchi Lake. The artificial breeding of S. grahami is a part of the targeted activities. Two successful breeding experiments were achieved using five females plus six males up to early March 2007. Approximately 1600 eggs were collected, of which 1320 eggs fertilized using the dry-fertilizing method. The mean fertilization rate was 73%. Approximately 480 fish fry was hatched and the mean hatching rate was 36%. After 10 days of cultivation, 95% fingerlings survived and their body lengths were up to 8- 12 mm. The importance of the artificial breeding success of S. grahami could be summarized as following： effectively protecting the fish from extinction; releasing the fish fry back to appropriate water body of the lake could help to restore the indigenous biodiversity of Dianchi Lake; facilitating the shift of local fish cultivation from the present non-indigenous to the future indigenous fishery.

Characterization of Genetic Polymorphism of Novel MHC B-LBⅡ Alleles in Chinese Indigenous Chickens

Genetic polymorphism of the major histocompatibility complex （MHC） B-LBⅡ gene was studied by amplification of exon 2 using PCR, followed by cloning and DNA sequencing in eight indigenous Chinese chicken populations. To reveal the genetic variation of the B-LB Ⅱ gene, 37 types of patterns detected by PCR-SSCP were investigated first, which would be used to screen novel B-LB Ⅱsequences within the breeds. The types of PCR-SSCP patterns and final sequencing allowed for the identification of 31 novel MHC B-LBⅡ alleles from 30 unrelated individuals of Chinese chickens that were sampled. These are the first designators for the alleles of chicken MHC B-LBⅡ gene based on the rule of assignment for novel mammalian alleles. Sequence alignment of the 31 B-LB Ⅱ alleles revealed a total of 68 variable sites in the fragment of exon 2, of which 51 parsimony informative and 17 singleton variable sites were observed. Among the polymorphic sites, the nucleotide substitutions in the first and second positions of the codons accounted for 36.76% and 35.29%, respectively. The sequence similarities between the alleles were estimated to be 90.6%-99.5%. The relative frequencies of synonymous and nonsynonymous nucleotide substitutions within the region were 2.92%±0.94% and 14.64%±2.67%, respectively. These results indicated that the genetic variation within exon 2 appeared to have largely arisen by gene recombination and balancing selection. Alignment of the deduced amino acid sequences of the β1 domain coded by exon 2 revealed 6 synonymous mutations and 27 nonsynonymous substitutions at the 33 disparate sites. In particular, the nonsynonymous substitutions at the putative peptide-binding sites are considered to be associated with immunological specificity of MHC B-LB Ⅱ molecule in Chinese native chickens. These results can provide a molecular biological basis for the study of disease resistance in chicken breeding.

Application of Indigenous Plants in the Urban Ecological Landscape Design

Concept of indigenous plant and ecological landscape was introduced.Ecological role of indigenous plants in urban ecological landscape design was analyzed,visual beauty,beautiful seasonal aspect,fragrance and charm of these plants were stressed.Moreover,the role of indigenous plants in creating landscape spaces,landscapes of time sequence and also regional landscapes was enhanced,and it was proposed that application of indigenous plants accorded with requirements of the conservation-minded ecological landscape construction.Scientific selection of indigenous plants for the ecological landscape design was discussed,then the following points stressed:right trees should be selected for right land according to the actual eco-environment conditions;properties and functional needs of urban green spaces satisfied;indigenous plants with outstanding landscape ecological attributes selected;historical and cultural features of the city highlighted.Finally,attentions in the configuration of indigenous plants were given as(a) maintaining species diversity and simulating natural community structure;(b) coordinating relationship among plants according to the principle of "mutualism",focusing on color combination and changeful seasonal aspects.