Modified classical Boltzmann entropy as generalized entropy, then proposed Maximum Generalized Entropy Principle fusing physics and biology, and established a new model for biological origin and evolutions based on th...Modified classical Boltzmann entropy as generalized entropy, then proposed Maximum Generalized Entropy Principle fusing physics and biology, and established a new model for biological origin and evolutions based on this principle, finally took protein evolution for an example to analyze. The model provided some reference for biological complexity research.展开更多
An investigation of sucking lice on the body surface of small mammals was carried out in the surrounding areas of Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan from 2003 to 2004. From investigation sites, 3 303 small mammal hosts were c...An investigation of sucking lice on the body surface of small mammals was carried out in the surrounding areas of Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan from 2003 to 2004. From investigation sites, 3 303 small mammal hosts were captured and identified into 7 families, 15 genera and 21 species in 4 orders (Rodentia, Insectivora, Scandentia and Carnivora), while t4 635 individuals of sucking lice collected from the body surface of the small mammal hosts are identified into 5 families, 6 genera and 21 species in the Order Anoplura, The sites stand alongside three cordilleras surrounding the Erhai Lake, namely Eastern Wuliang Mountain, Southern Ailao Mountain and Western Cangshan Mountain. The three confined oriented areas are different landscapes within the same zone where the longitude, latitude, altitude and fauna are homologous but isolated by Erhai Lake as inartificial barrier. The aim of this study was to recognize features of the species diversity, abundance, community structure, similarity and distribution of sucking lice in different landscapes within the same zone. The results showed the species diversity of sucking lice was very low with a very simple community structure. The distribution of sucking lice and their corresponding hosts are quite uneven among different oriented areas and this may imply that ecological environment influences the species composition and distribution of sucking lice and their corresponding hosts. A certain species of hosts usually have their fixed louse species. The similarity of sucking louse communities is highly consistent with the affinity of small mammal hosts in taxonomy. Species of sucking lice on the same small mammal host in different oriented areas of Erhai Lake are homologous. The results strongly suggest a close relationship of co-evolution between sucking lice and their hosts.展开更多
The natural distribution, diffusion, and geographical origin of the genus Homidia Brmer, 1906 (Collembola: Entomobryidae) are investigated based on the geographical distribution of the genus Homidia. Of the 57 spec...The natural distribution, diffusion, and geographical origin of the genus Homidia Brmer, 1906 (Collembola: Entomobryidae) are investigated based on the geographical distribution of the genus Homidia. Of the 57 species of the genus Homidia known worldwide, most are distributed in Asia (54 species) with China (32 species including 23 native species) having the most species in this genus. The only region outside Asia with a significant fauna is United States including Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana and Hawaii (6 species). The authors propose a theory for the origin and diffusion of members of this genus.展开更多
[Objective] This study was to explore the effect of three precursors on the accumulation of principal volatile oil constituents in tissue culture plantlets of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. with the aim to provide...[Objective] This study was to explore the effect of three precursors on the accumulation of principal volatile oil constituents in tissue culture plantlets of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. with the aim to provide references for the improvement of artificial cultivated A. lancea quality. [Method] Three precursors were added into the MS rooting medium for A. lancea tissue culture plantlets and the volatile oil was extracted by ultrasonication after cultured for several days. The content of atractylon, atractylol, β-eucalyptol and atractydin in the volatile oil were determined by using gas chromatography method. [Result] The addition of xylose, isoprene and tetrahydrofuran impacted the growth indicators, yield of volatile oil and relative percentage content of the four constituents of A. lancea tissue culture plantlets. In the 6 g/L xylose optimized medium, the atractylon and β-eucalyptol content reached up to 4.23% and 56.34%, respectively, 1.41% and 1.66% higher than the control; although the addition of isoprene into medium raised the atractylon content, the accumulation of total volatile oil was inhibited that it decreased by 23.67%, 31.06% and 7.10% to the control; for the tetrahydrofuran optimized medium, the content of atractylon, atractylol and atractydin all increased, and the total volatile oil content increased by 49.97% to the control when the concentration of tetrahydrofuran was 0.07 g/L. [Conclusion] The addition of xylose and tetrahydrofuran promoted the accumulation of principal constituents of the volatile oil, whereas the addition of isoprene inhibited the accumulation.展开更多
The ascidian Ciona intestinalis is a model organism of developmental and evolutionary biology and may provide orucial clues concerning two fundamental matters, namely, how chordates originated from the putative deuter...The ascidian Ciona intestinalis is a model organism of developmental and evolutionary biology and may provide orucial clues concerning two fundamental matters, namely, how chordates originated from the putative deuterostome ancestor and how advanced chordates originated from the simplest chordates. In this paper, a whole-life-span culture of C. intestinalis was conducted. Fed with the diet combination of dry Spirulina, egg yolk, Dicrateria sp., edible yeast and weaning diet for shrimp, C. intestinalis grew up to average 59 mm and matured after 60 d cultivation. This culture process could be repeated using the artificially cultured mature ascidians as material. When the fertilized eggs were maintained under 10, 15, 20, 25 ℃, they hatched within 30 h, 22 h, 16 h and 12 h 50 min respectively experiencing cleavage, blastulation, gastrulation, neurulation, tailbud stage and tadpole stage, The tadpole larvae were characterized as typical but simplified chordates because of their dorsal nerve cord, notochord and primordial brain. After 8-24 h freely swimming, the tadpole larvae settled on the substrates and metamorphosized within 1-2 d into filter feeding sessile juvenile ascidians. In addition, unfertilized eggs were successfully dechorionated in filtered seawater containing 1% Tripsin, 0.25% EDTA at pH of 10.5 within 40 min. After fertilization, the dechorionated eggs developed well and hatched at normal hatching rate. In conclusion, this paper presented feasible methodology for rearing the tadpole larvae of C. intestinalis into sexual maturity under controlled conditions and detailed observations on the embryogenesis of the laboratory cultured ascidians, which will facilitate developmental and genetic research using this model system.展开更多
Defensin is one of preserved ancient host defensive materials formed in biological evolution. As a regulator and effector molecule, it is very important in animals' acquired immune system. This paper reports the defe...Defensin is one of preserved ancient host defensive materials formed in biological evolution. As a regulator and effector molecule, it is very important in animals' acquired immune system. This paper reports the defensin gene from the mixed liver and kidney cDNA library of abalone Haliotis discus hannai Ino. Sequence analysis shows that the gene sequence of full-length cDNA encodes 42 mature peptides (including six Cys), molecular weight of 4 323 Da, and pI of 8.02. Amino acid sequence homology analysis shows that the peptides are highly similar (70% in common) to other insects defensin. Because of a typical insect-defensin structural character of mature peptide in the secondary structure, the polypeptide named Haliotis discus defensin (hd-def), a novel of antimicrobial peptides, belongs to insects defensin subfamily. The RT-PCR result of Haliotis discus defensin shows that the gene can be expressed only in the hepatopancreas by Gram-negative and positive bacteria stimulation, which is ascribed to inducible expression. Therefore, it is revealed that the Haliotis discus defensin gene expression was related to the antibacterial infection of Haliotis discus hannai Ino.展开更多
In this report, a conservation priority scenario for endemic birds of China's Mainland is proposed from a phylogenetic perspective. By utilizing and comparing seven phylogenetic diversity (PD) indices, the study s...In this report, a conservation priority scenario for endemic birds of China's Mainland is proposed from a phylogenetic perspective. By utilizing and comparing seven phylogenetic diversity (PD) indices, the study shows that the top ifve endemic birds with high conservation priority are Ar-borophila ardens, A. gingica, A. ruifpectus, Lophophorus lhuysii and Alectoris magna respectively. The ranking of species, based on the IUCN Red List and PD indices, were compared by means of a Wilcox signed rank test and Pearson’s correlation, drawing the inference that the PD ranking of endemic birds for China's Mainland shows a distinct and statistically signiifcant difference from the IUCN rank-ing. Therefore, the ranking of conservation priority for endemic birds of China using PD indices might offer new insights on species conservation from an evolutionary-heritage perspective, serving as a complement to the IUCN ranking.展开更多
Trichoderma strains are used in agriculture because they provide to the plants the following benefits: i) are rhizosphere competence and establish stable rhizosphere microbial communities; ii) control plant disease ca...Trichoderma strains are used in agriculture because they provide to the plants the following benefits: i) are rhizosphere competence and establish stable rhizosphere microbial communities; ii) control plant disease caused by pathogenic and competitive microflora, by using a variety of mechanisms; iii) improve vegetative growth, root development and yield; iv) make nutrients more available to the plant. In this work we have investigated the ability of T. harzianum T22 and T. atroviride P1 to improve plant growth of locally important horticultural crops: lettuce, tomatoes and peppers and to prevent disease in the greenhouse and field. The effect of the Trichoderma treatment was evaluated by determining the weight of fresh and dry roots and above ground plant biomass, measuring plants height, counting the number of emerged leaves (lettuce, tomatoes and peppers) and quantifying production (tomatoes and peppers). No disease symptoms were found during production, although Fusarium sp. strains pathogenic to tomato were detected in the soil. Compounds containing copper oxychloride are frequently used for fungal disease control in agriculture. In order to investigate the compatibility of T. harzianum T22 and T. atroviride P1 with copper oxychloride applications, the effect on mycelia growth was monitored in both liquid and solid medium. In general, the tests indicated a high level of tolerance of the Trichoderma strains to concentrations of copper oxychloride varying from 0.1 to 5 mmol/L.展开更多
The morphology and ultrastructure of Bullacta exarata spermatozoa observed by light and transmission electron microscopy are presented in this paper. The spermatozoon is composed of head with a simple acrosomal comple...The morphology and ultrastructure of Bullacta exarata spermatozoa observed by light and transmission electron microscopy are presented in this paper. The spermatozoon is composed of head with a simple acrosomal complex and an elongated nucleus, and tail with a midpiece, principal piece and an end piece. The midpiece consists of a mitochondrial ring, and the principal piece is composed of axoneme and lateral fin. The structure of 5. exarata spermatozoa differs significantly from that of other gastropods, especially in the lateral fin and the principal piece, which was described scarcely before. A comparison is made between B. exarata and other gastropods, and its significance on reproductive evolution and physio-ecological adaptation is preliminarily discussed.展开更多
microRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of-22 nucleotide (nt) regulatory RNAs that are pervasive in higher eukaryotic genomes. In order to fully understand their prominence in genomes, it is necessary to elucidat...microRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of-22 nucleotide (nt) regulatory RNAs that are pervasive in higher eukaryotic genomes. In order to fully understand their prominence in genomes, it is necessary to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that can diversify miRNA activities. In this review, we describe some of the many strategies that allow novel miRNA functions to emerge, with particular emphasis on how miRNA genes evolve in animals. These mechanisms include changes in their sequence, processing, or expression pattern; acquisition of miRNA^* functionality or antisense processing; and de novo gene birth. The facility and versatility of miRNAs to evolve and change likely underlies how they have become dominant constituents of higher genomes.展开更多
The clinical course ofchronic liver diseases is significantly dependent on the progression rate and the extent offibrosis, i.e. the non-structured replacement of necrotic parenchyma by extracellular matrix. Fibrogenes...The clinical course ofchronic liver diseases is significantly dependent on the progression rate and the extent offibrosis, i.e. the non-structured replacement of necrotic parenchyma by extracellular matrix. Fibrogenesis, i.e. the development offibrosis can be regarded as an unlimited wound healing process, which is based on matrix (connective tissue) synthesis in activated hepatic stellate cells, fibroblasts (fibrocytes), hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells, which are converted to matrix-producing (myo-)fibroblasts by a process defined as epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Blood (noninvasive) biomarkers offibrogenesis and fibrosis can be divided into class and class analytes. Class biomarkers are those single tests, which are based on the pathophysiology offibrosis, whereas class biomarkers aremostly multiparametric algorithms, which have been statistically evaluated with regard to the detection and activity ofongoing fibrosis. Currently available markers fulfil the criteria ofideal clinical-chemical tests only partially, but increased understanding ofthe complex pathogenesis offibrosis offers additional ways for pathophysiologically well based serum (plasma) biomarkers. They include TGF-β-driven marker proteins, bone marrow-derived cells (fibrocytes), and cytokines, which govern proand anti-fibrotic activities. Proteomic and glycomic approaches ofserum are under investigation to set up specific protein or carbohydrate profiles in patients with liver fibrosis. These and other novel parameters will supplement or eventually replaceliver biopsy/histology, high resolution imaging analysis, and elastography for the detection and monitoring of patients at risk ofdeveloping liver fibrosis.展开更多
A central tenet of coevolutionary theory,including theory of the coevolutionary relationship between brood parasites and their hosts,is that temporal and spatial patterns may reveal important information about ecologi...A central tenet of coevolutionary theory,including theory of the coevolutionary relationship between brood parasites and their hosts,is that temporal and spatial patterns may reveal important information about ecological and evolutionary dynamics.For instance,level of genetic structure of populations provides important information about the role of genetics and gene ow in determining local patterns of selection on hosts due to parasitism(i.e.,egg rejection) and on parasites due to selection by hosts(i.e.,egg mimicry).Furthermore,abiotic(i.e.,climatic conditions) and biotic(phenotypic characteristics of animals) factors that also vary spatially may directly or indirectly a ect populations of hosts and brood parasites and,therefore,their interaction.By reviewing the literature,we found considerable evidence for an e ect of the spatially and temporally structured abiotic environment on the phenotype of both parasite and host eggs and the degree of mimicry.Moreover,we found examples suggesting that speci c life history characteristics of hosts that vary geographically and/or temporally may a ect the probability of initial colonization of a new host species and the direction and the speed of coevolution.We provide an exhaustive review of studies investigating temporal and spatial patterns of the interaction between brood parasites and their hosts.Such temporal and spatial trends in parasite and host traits are,together with genetic information on rejection and signi cant e ects of gene ow,consistent with coevolutionary dynamics.However,gene ow and changes in the temporal and spatial patterns of abundance of both parasites and hosts may result in frequent cases of counter-intuitive relationships between the phenotype of the parasite and that of the host(i.e.,poor or no mimicry),which may suggest limits to the degree of adaptation.We provide a list of scienti c questions in need of further investigation,concluding that studies of brood parasites and their hosts may play a central role in testing the geographic theory of coevolution and several alternative hypotheses.展开更多
In emergence of design, it is undoubted to be informed from nature for how things get done. But in architecture, the students are not used to start up with biological investigation. Instead of analogues, it is permitt...In emergence of design, it is undoubted to be informed from nature for how things get done. But in architecture, the students are not used to start up with biological investigation. Instead of analogues, it is permitted to pursue an evolvability systematics for built emerge. The systematics relies upon the key assumptions of Kirschner who sought the characteristics of biological evolution. For an integrated design thinking of an architectural mind, this is a methodological study, which strategically adapts living forms' evolvability capacity to built-forms' structural emergence. The study outlines the evolution strategy with experimental studios of building and design. The preceding systematic is taught in distinguished courses. It is purposed to build an easy-to-apply framework for how to generate novel structures and how the spatial structure units are organized to emerge with an imagined nature as novel tectonic model. Besides, building up structural thinking into the consilience of evolution strategy, the study is also distinguished for understanding the value system of architectural mind to diagnose the genuine character of inventive built form. Strategy constructs processes. Thinking strategy concludes by the evolvability directives of studio assignments and they are given as flow-charts and project models.展开更多
The rapid development of mariculture in China in recent decades has satisfied people's demand of seafood, and has made a great contribution to economic development. However, mariculture has also caused some negati...The rapid development of mariculture in China in recent decades has satisfied people's demand of seafood, and has made a great contribution to economic development. However, mariculture has also caused some negative impacts on the eco-environment. By statistically analyzing national data(as well as data for four main provinces) regarding the mariculture area and cultivation species in China since reform and opening up, the historical evolution of mariculture during the past 40 years was analyzed, the driving factors related to policy, market and technology innovation were discussed, and the potential impacts of mariculture on the coastal eco-environment were also illustrated. The statistical results indicated that the maricultural area increased radically during the past 40 years, from 1979(116.47 × 10~3 ha) to 2012(2205.65 × 10~3 ha), with an increase of nearly 20-fold. Shandong Province represented the fastest-growing region, with an increase of 31-fold. Moreover, the cultivated species had gradually become diversified. Initially, shellfish and algae were major species, and then it developed to various species including fish, and currently shellfish and crustaceans were the major species. The development of mariculture was driven by government policies, market economy and technology innovation. Rapid development of mariculture also caused significantly adverse impacts on the eco-environment of the coastal regions. For example, the sea reclamation for mariculture decreased the area and function of coastal wetlands and the contaminants originating from mariculture destroyed the coastal aquatic environment. Fortunately, the implementation of ‘13 th Five-Year Fisheries Planning' is expected to help both improve the seafood quality and reduce the contamination in coastal aquatic environment. This current study will provide reference for management and structure adjustment of mariculture in the future.展开更多
Human beings do not live in nature, they live in culture. Contrary to biological evolution, which is based on genetic inheritance, cultural change is transmitted by instruction. Simple beginnings of culture have been ...Human beings do not live in nature, they live in culture. Contrary to biological evolution, which is based on genetic inheritance, cultural change is transmitted by instruction. Simple beginnings of culture have been observed in various animals. However, the much advanced human culture became possible by its transmission by language, and by its being cumulative. The concept of cultural change as a progressive process, popular by 18th and 19th centuries thinkers, is nowadays rejected, and the uniqueness of each culture stressed. Although, there are some similarities between biological evolution and cultural change, important differences between these processes are emphasized. The rapid rate of cultural change (especially its technological aspect), as compared to the rate of biological evolution, is noted. In addition, some cultural changes led to new phenomena, which in a time of crisis can be annulled. The possible consequences of the different rate of these two processes for humans as individuals, and for their societies are discussed.展开更多
With the cultural myth that science can only determine the way the world "is" (facts), while humanities, social sciences, lawyers, philosophers, and theologians must determine the way the world "ought to be" (v...With the cultural myth that science can only determine the way the world "is" (facts), while humanities, social sciences, lawyers, philosophers, and theologians must determine the way the world "ought to be" (values), those in position of global-, national-, and local-political power make major decisions of the use (or non-use) of scientific knowledge and technology. As a result, the human being has created a non-scientifically based cultural environment that is affecting his ability to survive. In effect, cultural evolution is occurring more rapidly than biological evolution that can adapt to the changes brought about in the physical and psycho-social environments. In a pluralistic cultural world, where each society has generated a different view of human nature and different ethical values, the use, misuse, or non-use of scientific and technological advances are derived from these unscientific views of human nature. Since all life depends on limiting interacting environmental and ecological factors, it is imperative that scientific information be used to govern how to minimize irreversible effects on life-sustaining ecological factors, but also scientific information bearing on understanding human nature ought to be integrated into a "global bioethics". While ethical values cannot be directly derived from scientific factors, it is also true that human values or our "ought" cannot be maintained in ignorance or defiance of the facts or the "is".展开更多
Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR) markers were used to assess genetic diversity within and among populations of dwarf mountain pine (Pinus rnugo Turra) growing in the Tatra National Park (UNESCO Biosphere Rese...Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR) markers were used to assess genetic diversity within and among populations of dwarf mountain pine (Pinus rnugo Turra) growing in the Tatra National Park (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) in Southern Poland (Central Europe). The analyzed population belongs to two different geobotanical sub-districts: the Western and High Tatras. The level of genetic diversity assessed in this study for P. mugo is generally comparable to that reported for the other pine species in the Pinaceae family assessed by ISSR markers, especially with respect to Nei's genetic diversity and the percentage of polymorphic bands. Bayesian analysis clustered the analyzed populations into two groups, corresponding to their geobotanical locations in the Tatras. Significant divergence between the two genetical clusters was supported by the results of Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA). According to the Mantel test, there was no correlation between the genetic distance and the geographical distance. The present study confirms the existence of two genetically distinct dusters of P. mugo populations in the Tatra Mountains. The observed high population-genetic differentiation of P.mugo in the Tatras could be attributed to several genetic, environmental and historical factors occurring in this mountain area.展开更多
基金Supported by National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program) (Grant No. 2007CB714101)~~
文摘Modified classical Boltzmann entropy as generalized entropy, then proposed Maximum Generalized Entropy Principle fusing physics and biology, and established a new model for biological origin and evolutions based on this principle, finally took protein evolution for an example to analyze. The model provided some reference for biological complexity research.
基金This project was supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China(30460125)
文摘An investigation of sucking lice on the body surface of small mammals was carried out in the surrounding areas of Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan from 2003 to 2004. From investigation sites, 3 303 small mammal hosts were captured and identified into 7 families, 15 genera and 21 species in 4 orders (Rodentia, Insectivora, Scandentia and Carnivora), while t4 635 individuals of sucking lice collected from the body surface of the small mammal hosts are identified into 5 families, 6 genera and 21 species in the Order Anoplura, The sites stand alongside three cordilleras surrounding the Erhai Lake, namely Eastern Wuliang Mountain, Southern Ailao Mountain and Western Cangshan Mountain. The three confined oriented areas are different landscapes within the same zone where the longitude, latitude, altitude and fauna are homologous but isolated by Erhai Lake as inartificial barrier. The aim of this study was to recognize features of the species diversity, abundance, community structure, similarity and distribution of sucking lice in different landscapes within the same zone. The results showed the species diversity of sucking lice was very low with a very simple community structure. The distribution of sucking lice and their corresponding hosts are quite uneven among different oriented areas and this may imply that ecological environment influences the species composition and distribution of sucking lice and their corresponding hosts. A certain species of hosts usually have their fixed louse species. The similarity of sucking louse communities is highly consistent with the affinity of small mammal hosts in taxonomy. Species of sucking lice on the same small mammal host in different oriented areas of Erhai Lake are homologous. The results strongly suggest a close relationship of co-evolution between sucking lice and their hosts.
基金supported by the Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation,China (ZR2010CM018)
文摘The natural distribution, diffusion, and geographical origin of the genus Homidia Brmer, 1906 (Collembola: Entomobryidae) are investigated based on the geographical distribution of the genus Homidia. Of the 57 species of the genus Homidia known worldwide, most are distributed in Asia (54 species) with China (32 species including 23 native species) having the most species in this genus. The only region outside Asia with a significant fauna is United States including Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana and Hawaii (6 species). The authors propose a theory for the origin and diffusion of members of this genus.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31070443)the National Science Foundation of China for Talent Training in Basic Research(J1103507)+1 种基金The Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions,Innovation Promotion Project of Nanjing Municipal Science and Technology Commissions(201105058)the Practice and Innovation Training Program for the Students of Nanjing Normal University~~
文摘[Objective] This study was to explore the effect of three precursors on the accumulation of principal volatile oil constituents in tissue culture plantlets of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. with the aim to provide references for the improvement of artificial cultivated A. lancea quality. [Method] Three precursors were added into the MS rooting medium for A. lancea tissue culture plantlets and the volatile oil was extracted by ultrasonication after cultured for several days. The content of atractylon, atractylol, β-eucalyptol and atractydin in the volatile oil were determined by using gas chromatography method. [Result] The addition of xylose, isoprene and tetrahydrofuran impacted the growth indicators, yield of volatile oil and relative percentage content of the four constituents of A. lancea tissue culture plantlets. In the 6 g/L xylose optimized medium, the atractylon and β-eucalyptol content reached up to 4.23% and 56.34%, respectively, 1.41% and 1.66% higher than the control; although the addition of isoprene into medium raised the atractylon content, the accumulation of total volatile oil was inhibited that it decreased by 23.67%, 31.06% and 7.10% to the control; for the tetrahydrofuran optimized medium, the content of atractylon, atractylol and atractydin all increased, and the total volatile oil content increased by 49.97% to the control when the concentration of tetrahydrofuran was 0.07 g/L. [Conclusion] The addition of xylose and tetrahydrofuran promoted the accumulation of principal constituents of the volatile oil, whereas the addition of isoprene inhibited the accumulation.
基金Project supported by the Hi-Tech Research and Development Pro-gram (863) of China (No. 2003AA603440) and the Knowledge In-novation Program from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (No.KZCX2-211)
文摘The ascidian Ciona intestinalis is a model organism of developmental and evolutionary biology and may provide orucial clues concerning two fundamental matters, namely, how chordates originated from the putative deuterostome ancestor and how advanced chordates originated from the simplest chordates. In this paper, a whole-life-span culture of C. intestinalis was conducted. Fed with the diet combination of dry Spirulina, egg yolk, Dicrateria sp., edible yeast and weaning diet for shrimp, C. intestinalis grew up to average 59 mm and matured after 60 d cultivation. This culture process could be repeated using the artificially cultured mature ascidians as material. When the fertilized eggs were maintained under 10, 15, 20, 25 ℃, they hatched within 30 h, 22 h, 16 h and 12 h 50 min respectively experiencing cleavage, blastulation, gastrulation, neurulation, tailbud stage and tadpole stage, The tadpole larvae were characterized as typical but simplified chordates because of their dorsal nerve cord, notochord and primordial brain. After 8-24 h freely swimming, the tadpole larvae settled on the substrates and metamorphosized within 1-2 d into filter feeding sessile juvenile ascidians. In addition, unfertilized eggs were successfully dechorionated in filtered seawater containing 1% Tripsin, 0.25% EDTA at pH of 10.5 within 40 min. After fertilization, the dechorionated eggs developed well and hatched at normal hatching rate. In conclusion, this paper presented feasible methodology for rearing the tadpole larvae of C. intestinalis into sexual maturity under controlled conditions and detailed observations on the embryogenesis of the laboratory cultured ascidians, which will facilitate developmental and genetic research using this model system.
基金Supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (863 program)(No.2006AA100309)
文摘Defensin is one of preserved ancient host defensive materials formed in biological evolution. As a regulator and effector molecule, it is very important in animals' acquired immune system. This paper reports the defensin gene from the mixed liver and kidney cDNA library of abalone Haliotis discus hannai Ino. Sequence analysis shows that the gene sequence of full-length cDNA encodes 42 mature peptides (including six Cys), molecular weight of 4 323 Da, and pI of 8.02. Amino acid sequence homology analysis shows that the peptides are highly similar (70% in common) to other insects defensin. Because of a typical insect-defensin structural character of mature peptide in the secondary structure, the polypeptide named Haliotis discus defensin (hd-def), a novel of antimicrobial peptides, belongs to insects defensin subfamily. The RT-PCR result of Haliotis discus defensin shows that the gene can be expressed only in the hepatopancreas by Gram-negative and positive bacteria stimulation, which is ascribed to inducible expression. Therefore, it is revealed that the Haliotis discus defensin gene expression was related to the antibacterial infection of Haliotis discus hannai Ino.
基金supported by the University of British Columbiasupported by China Scholarship Council
文摘In this report, a conservation priority scenario for endemic birds of China's Mainland is proposed from a phylogenetic perspective. By utilizing and comparing seven phylogenetic diversity (PD) indices, the study shows that the top ifve endemic birds with high conservation priority are Ar-borophila ardens, A. gingica, A. ruifpectus, Lophophorus lhuysii and Alectoris magna respectively. The ranking of species, based on the IUCN Red List and PD indices, were compared by means of a Wilcox signed rank test and Pearson’s correlation, drawing the inference that the PD ranking of endemic birds for China's Mainland shows a distinct and statistically signiifcant difference from the IUCN rank-ing. Therefore, the ranking of conservation priority for endemic birds of China using PD indices might offer new insights on species conservation from an evolutionary-heritage perspective, serving as a complement to the IUCN ranking.
文摘Trichoderma strains are used in agriculture because they provide to the plants the following benefits: i) are rhizosphere competence and establish stable rhizosphere microbial communities; ii) control plant disease caused by pathogenic and competitive microflora, by using a variety of mechanisms; iii) improve vegetative growth, root development and yield; iv) make nutrients more available to the plant. In this work we have investigated the ability of T. harzianum T22 and T. atroviride P1 to improve plant growth of locally important horticultural crops: lettuce, tomatoes and peppers and to prevent disease in the greenhouse and field. The effect of the Trichoderma treatment was evaluated by determining the weight of fresh and dry roots and above ground plant biomass, measuring plants height, counting the number of emerged leaves (lettuce, tomatoes and peppers) and quantifying production (tomatoes and peppers). No disease symptoms were found during production, although Fusarium sp. strains pathogenic to tomato were detected in the soil. Compounds containing copper oxychloride are frequently used for fungal disease control in agriculture. In order to investigate the compatibility of T. harzianum T22 and T. atroviride P1 with copper oxychloride applications, the effect on mycelia growth was monitored in both liquid and solid medium. In general, the tests indicated a high level of tolerance of the Trichoderma strains to concentrations of copper oxychloride varying from 0.1 to 5 mmol/L.
文摘The morphology and ultrastructure of Bullacta exarata spermatozoa observed by light and transmission electron microscopy are presented in this paper. The spermatozoon is composed of head with a simple acrosomal complex and an elongated nucleus, and tail with a midpiece, principal piece and an end piece. The midpiece consists of a mitochondrial ring, and the principal piece is composed of axoneme and lateral fin. The structure of 5. exarata spermatozoa differs significantly from that of other gastropods, especially in the lateral fin and the principal piece, which was described scarcely before. A comparison is made between B. exarata and other gastropods, and its significance on reproductive evolution and physio-ecological adaptation is preliminarily discussed.
文摘microRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of-22 nucleotide (nt) regulatory RNAs that are pervasive in higher eukaryotic genomes. In order to fully understand their prominence in genomes, it is necessary to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that can diversify miRNA activities. In this review, we describe some of the many strategies that allow novel miRNA functions to emerge, with particular emphasis on how miRNA genes evolve in animals. These mechanisms include changes in their sequence, processing, or expression pattern; acquisition of miRNA^* functionality or antisense processing; and de novo gene birth. The facility and versatility of miRNAs to evolve and change likely underlies how they have become dominant constituents of higher genomes.
文摘The clinical course ofchronic liver diseases is significantly dependent on the progression rate and the extent offibrosis, i.e. the non-structured replacement of necrotic parenchyma by extracellular matrix. Fibrogenesis, i.e. the development offibrosis can be regarded as an unlimited wound healing process, which is based on matrix (connective tissue) synthesis in activated hepatic stellate cells, fibroblasts (fibrocytes), hepatocytes and biliary epithelial cells, which are converted to matrix-producing (myo-)fibroblasts by a process defined as epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Blood (noninvasive) biomarkers offibrogenesis and fibrosis can be divided into class and class analytes. Class biomarkers are those single tests, which are based on the pathophysiology offibrosis, whereas class biomarkers aremostly multiparametric algorithms, which have been statistically evaluated with regard to the detection and activity ofongoing fibrosis. Currently available markers fulfil the criteria ofideal clinical-chemical tests only partially, but increased understanding ofthe complex pathogenesis offibrosis offers additional ways for pathophysiologically well based serum (plasma) biomarkers. They include TGF-β-driven marker proteins, bone marrow-derived cells (fibrocytes), and cytokines, which govern proand anti-fibrotic activities. Proteomic and glycomic approaches ofserum are under investigation to set up specific protein or carbohydrate profiles in patients with liver fibrosis. These and other novel parameters will supplement or eventually replaceliver biopsy/histology, high resolution imaging analysis, and elastography for the detection and monitoring of patients at risk ofdeveloping liver fibrosis.
文摘A central tenet of coevolutionary theory,including theory of the coevolutionary relationship between brood parasites and their hosts,is that temporal and spatial patterns may reveal important information about ecological and evolutionary dynamics.For instance,level of genetic structure of populations provides important information about the role of genetics and gene ow in determining local patterns of selection on hosts due to parasitism(i.e.,egg rejection) and on parasites due to selection by hosts(i.e.,egg mimicry).Furthermore,abiotic(i.e.,climatic conditions) and biotic(phenotypic characteristics of animals) factors that also vary spatially may directly or indirectly a ect populations of hosts and brood parasites and,therefore,their interaction.By reviewing the literature,we found considerable evidence for an e ect of the spatially and temporally structured abiotic environment on the phenotype of both parasite and host eggs and the degree of mimicry.Moreover,we found examples suggesting that speci c life history characteristics of hosts that vary geographically and/or temporally may a ect the probability of initial colonization of a new host species and the direction and the speed of coevolution.We provide an exhaustive review of studies investigating temporal and spatial patterns of the interaction between brood parasites and their hosts.Such temporal and spatial trends in parasite and host traits are,together with genetic information on rejection and signi cant e ects of gene ow,consistent with coevolutionary dynamics.However,gene ow and changes in the temporal and spatial patterns of abundance of both parasites and hosts may result in frequent cases of counter-intuitive relationships between the phenotype of the parasite and that of the host(i.e.,poor or no mimicry),which may suggest limits to the degree of adaptation.We provide a list of scienti c questions in need of further investigation,concluding that studies of brood parasites and their hosts may play a central role in testing the geographic theory of coevolution and several alternative hypotheses.
文摘In emergence of design, it is undoubted to be informed from nature for how things get done. But in architecture, the students are not used to start up with biological investigation. Instead of analogues, it is permitted to pursue an evolvability systematics for built emerge. The systematics relies upon the key assumptions of Kirschner who sought the characteristics of biological evolution. For an integrated design thinking of an architectural mind, this is a methodological study, which strategically adapts living forms' evolvability capacity to built-forms' structural emergence. The study outlines the evolution strategy with experimental studios of building and design. The preceding systematic is taught in distinguished courses. It is purposed to build an easy-to-apply framework for how to generate novel structures and how the spatial structure units are organized to emerge with an imagined nature as novel tectonic model. Besides, building up structural thinking into the consilience of evolution strategy, the study is also distinguished for understanding the value system of architectural mind to diagnose the genuine character of inventive built form. Strategy constructs processes. Thinking strategy concludes by the evolvability directives of studio assignments and they are given as flow-charts and project models.
基金Under the auspices of National Key Basic Research Program of China(No.2013CB430401)National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2016YFC0500404-4)Youth Innovation Promotion Association CAS(No.2017274)
文摘The rapid development of mariculture in China in recent decades has satisfied people's demand of seafood, and has made a great contribution to economic development. However, mariculture has also caused some negative impacts on the eco-environment. By statistically analyzing national data(as well as data for four main provinces) regarding the mariculture area and cultivation species in China since reform and opening up, the historical evolution of mariculture during the past 40 years was analyzed, the driving factors related to policy, market and technology innovation were discussed, and the potential impacts of mariculture on the coastal eco-environment were also illustrated. The statistical results indicated that the maricultural area increased radically during the past 40 years, from 1979(116.47 × 10~3 ha) to 2012(2205.65 × 10~3 ha), with an increase of nearly 20-fold. Shandong Province represented the fastest-growing region, with an increase of 31-fold. Moreover, the cultivated species had gradually become diversified. Initially, shellfish and algae were major species, and then it developed to various species including fish, and currently shellfish and crustaceans were the major species. The development of mariculture was driven by government policies, market economy and technology innovation. Rapid development of mariculture also caused significantly adverse impacts on the eco-environment of the coastal regions. For example, the sea reclamation for mariculture decreased the area and function of coastal wetlands and the contaminants originating from mariculture destroyed the coastal aquatic environment. Fortunately, the implementation of ‘13 th Five-Year Fisheries Planning' is expected to help both improve the seafood quality and reduce the contamination in coastal aquatic environment. This current study will provide reference for management and structure adjustment of mariculture in the future.
文摘Human beings do not live in nature, they live in culture. Contrary to biological evolution, which is based on genetic inheritance, cultural change is transmitted by instruction. Simple beginnings of culture have been observed in various animals. However, the much advanced human culture became possible by its transmission by language, and by its being cumulative. The concept of cultural change as a progressive process, popular by 18th and 19th centuries thinkers, is nowadays rejected, and the uniqueness of each culture stressed. Although, there are some similarities between biological evolution and cultural change, important differences between these processes are emphasized. The rapid rate of cultural change (especially its technological aspect), as compared to the rate of biological evolution, is noted. In addition, some cultural changes led to new phenomena, which in a time of crisis can be annulled. The possible consequences of the different rate of these two processes for humans as individuals, and for their societies are discussed.
文摘With the cultural myth that science can only determine the way the world "is" (facts), while humanities, social sciences, lawyers, philosophers, and theologians must determine the way the world "ought to be" (values), those in position of global-, national-, and local-political power make major decisions of the use (or non-use) of scientific knowledge and technology. As a result, the human being has created a non-scientifically based cultural environment that is affecting his ability to survive. In effect, cultural evolution is occurring more rapidly than biological evolution that can adapt to the changes brought about in the physical and psycho-social environments. In a pluralistic cultural world, where each society has generated a different view of human nature and different ethical values, the use, misuse, or non-use of scientific and technological advances are derived from these unscientific views of human nature. Since all life depends on limiting interacting environmental and ecological factors, it is imperative that scientific information be used to govern how to minimize irreversible effects on life-sustaining ecological factors, but also scientific information bearing on understanding human nature ought to be integrated into a "global bioethics". While ethical values cannot be directly derived from scientific factors, it is also true that human values or our "ought" cannot be maintained in ignorance or defiance of the facts or the "is".
基金supported by Research Grant No. NN304060339 from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Poland
文摘Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR) markers were used to assess genetic diversity within and among populations of dwarf mountain pine (Pinus rnugo Turra) growing in the Tatra National Park (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) in Southern Poland (Central Europe). The analyzed population belongs to two different geobotanical sub-districts: the Western and High Tatras. The level of genetic diversity assessed in this study for P. mugo is generally comparable to that reported for the other pine species in the Pinaceae family assessed by ISSR markers, especially with respect to Nei's genetic diversity and the percentage of polymorphic bands. Bayesian analysis clustered the analyzed populations into two groups, corresponding to their geobotanical locations in the Tatras. Significant divergence between the two genetical clusters was supported by the results of Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA). According to the Mantel test, there was no correlation between the genetic distance and the geographical distance. The present study confirms the existence of two genetically distinct dusters of P. mugo populations in the Tatra Mountains. The observed high population-genetic differentiation of P.mugo in the Tatras could be attributed to several genetic, environmental and historical factors occurring in this mountain area.