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    Functional applications of CRISPR gene editing tools for microbes
    CHENG Zhouhua, YU Hanqing
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (5): 317-329.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.05.001
    Abstract （1712）      PDF（pc） （3332KB）（948）       Save
        The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system, a powerful and tunable gene-editing tool, holds great promise in the fields of microbial mechanism analysis, functional enhancement, and detection tracing due to its precision and flexibility. The system’s two core functions, the specific recognition and cis-cleavage by Cas (CRISPR-associated) proteins and the trans-cleavage, have garnered significant attention. Efficient microbial genome editing tools based on the specific recognition and cutting function have strengthened the functionality of microorganisms, enhancing their application potential in environmental protection, ecological restoration, and energy recovery. Moreover, the rapid detection methods for pathogenic microorganisms, developed based on its trans-cleavage, provide technical support for epidemic prevention and control caused by pathogenic microorganisms. This paper focuses on the current application status and future prospects of CRISPR gene-editing technology in microbes.
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     Application of biological preservation technology in the postharvest field of fruits and vegetables
    WAN Sibao, QIN Zhen, WEI Yunfan, YAN Jiabao, TIAN Xiao, DONG Lianger, GAO Haiyan
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2025, 47 (3): 215-222.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2025.03.008
    Abstract （1042）      PDF（pc） （2974KB）（2465）       Save
     China is the world's largest producer of fruits and vegetables, yet postharvest losses caused by pathogenic microbial infections remain as high as 15% ~ 25%, resulting in significant economic losses and posing serious challenges to food security and sustainable resource utilization. Driven by the “Healthy China” initiative and the “Dual Carbon” goals, the development of green and safe biocontrol preservation technologies is of great significance in reducing reliance on chemical preservatives and promoting the low-carbon transformation of the fruit and vegetable industry. This paper systematically reviews the mechanisms and applications of bio-preservation technologies, including antimicrobial compounds derived from plants and animals, antagonistic microorganisms and their metabolites, and novel enzyme preparations. Furthermore, it discusses the current bottlenecks and potential strategies for industrial-scale implementation. The findings provide theoretical support for key technologies in reducing postharvest losses and establishing a sustainable green supply chain.
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    Methods, applications and prospects of haploid induction in plants
    YANG Yanming, WANG Na
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (4): 285-298.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.01.012
    Abstract （3140）      PDF（pc） （4204KB）（4893）       Save
    Haploid induction largely improves the efficiency of breeding. Haploid production mainly consists of in vitro gametophytic tissue culture and in vivo chromosome elimination. In this review, we focus on various strategies for in vivo haploid induction, along with recent research progresses and practical applications. Additionally, we provide an overview of the potential mechanisms underlying key haploid inducers, with a particular emphasis on the centromeric protein CENH3 mediated haploid induction.
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    From computer-aided drug design to artificial intelligence-driven drug design
    BIAN Yuemin
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2025, 47 (1): 1-10.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2025.01.001
    Abstract （1119）      PDF（pc） （3165KB）（3588）       Save
    The rapid advancement of computational science continues to drive innovation and create opportunities in the field of drug discovery. With the ongoing expansion of data in the life sciences and the iterative improvement of computational hardware, computational chemistry and cheminformatics have been indispensable tools for researchers in preclinical drug design. This article focuses on two key themes — computer-aided drug design (CADD) and artifificial intelligence-driven drug design (AIDD) — to provide a concise overview of the interdisciplinary exploration and innovation at the intersection of computational science and drug discovery, as well as the applications and progress related to preclinical small-molecule drug development.
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    Angiosperm diversity and conservation progress in China
    ZHAO Yujie, ZHAO Lina, HU Haihua, PENG Danxiao, CHEN Zhiduan, LU Limin
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2023, 45 (6): 399-409.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2023.06.001
    Abstract （1555）      PDF（pc） （39996KB）（677）       Save
    Due to the impact of climate change and human activities, China’s biodiversity is under serious threat, which requires urgent conservation actions. According to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the “3030 Target” calls for at least 30% of the world’s land and oceans to be protected by 2030. Although the current protected areas in China have covered ca. 18% of its land area, large conservation gaps remain to achieve the 30% target. It is therefore urgent to identify more conservation priorities. Researchers identified southwest China as the diversity hotspot of flowering plants based on numerous diversity indices, such as those incorporating richness, endemism, vulnerability, and evolutionary history. Furthermore, unique conservation gaps is identified using the categorical analysis of neo- and paleo-endemism (CANAPE), integrative richness-based index (Irich), and integrative phylogenybased index (Iphyl). These progresses provide solid scientific support for improving China’s nature reserve system.
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    Regulation of light harvesting and electron transfer process of plant photosynthesis
    CHEN Zhufeng, TIAN Lijin
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (1): 35-45.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.01.004
    Abstract （1549）      PDF（pc） （4322KB）（2580）       Save
    Photosynthesis is the largest energy and mass conversion process on the earth, providing the essential foundation for almost all life. It is also the most significant biological carbon fixation process in the world. As the first step of photosynthesis, light reaction has a crucial effect on plant growth. With the development of modern interdisciplinary integration in recent years, new molecular elements have been identified for some classical regulatory pathways, and several new regulatory mechanisms have emerged. In this paper, we briefly introduce the light reaction of photosynthesis, then discuss the regulation mechanisms of photosynthetic light harvesting and electron transfer process based on the latest research progress. Research on plant light reaction regulation not only deepens the understanding of photosynthesis but also inspires optimizing crop growth to meet the world’s challenge of food and energy shortages.
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     Research progress of intelligent dual-arm robots and key technologies for pharmaceutical dispensing
    ZHANG Hui, KONG Chuiwang, LI Kang, CHEN Weili, CHEN Bo, FAN Yexin, JIANG Yiming, WANG Yaonan
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2025, 47 (5): 330-349.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2025.05.002
    Abstract （924）      PDF（pc） （6352KB）（579）       Save
    The pharmaceutical industry is a pillar industry related to the national economy and people＇s livelihood. The development of technologies such as artificial intelligence has promoted the widespread application of intelligent dual-arm robots in the field of pharmaceutical dispensing. Intelligent dual-arm robots have injected new vitality into pharmaceutical production, but they also face problems and challenges. In view of this, the latest research progress of intelligent dual-arm robots in the field of pharmaceutical dispensing is reviewed. The particularity of pharmaceutical dispensing scenarios, intelligent dual-arm robot systems and their core challenges in pharmaceutical dispensing are outlined. In response to the bottlenecks and challenges faced by intelligent dual-arm robots for pharmaceutical dispensing, key technologies such as intelligent perception, autonomous scheduling, advanced control, and embodied intelligence are analyzed and summarized. The future development trend of intelligent dual-arm robots for pharmaceutical dispensing is prospected.
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    Advances in machine learning model for fatigue life prediction
    DENG Yang, DAI Chunchun, WANG Ruijin, ZHU Fangyan, LENG Jiantao, CHANG Tienchong
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (4): 247-260.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.04.002
    Abstract （3183）      PDF（pc） （2848KB）（4236）       Save
    Accurate prediction of fatigue life has long been a critical challenge in the design and development of advanced equipment. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) models have introduced a new paradigm for fatigue life prediction, offering promising solutions. In particular, the integration of existing knowledge into AI models can significantly enhance their training and predictive capabilities. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current state of research on knowledge-guided and data-driven models of fatigue life prediction, highlighting their respective strengths and weaknesses, and outlining fthe challenges and possible future perspectives.
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    Technology for terahertz wave manipulation: harnessing the light of terahertz
    YAO Jianquan, LI Jie, ZHANG Yating, DING Xin, WU Liang
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2023, 45 (1): 1-16.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2023.01.001
    Abstract （2474）      PDF（pc） （7929KB）（16957）       Save
    With the deepening of research, terahertz (THz) science and technology becomes increasingly prominent in many fields for both basic research and engineering applications. Radiation source, transmission and control, detection and sensing are three important
    aspects that need to be explored in the further development of THz technology. The common basis of THz wave applications is to
    make the effective interaction with the material for carrying information or transmitting power. To implement these processes, we
    need to control the electromagnetic parameters like amplitude, phase, frequency, polarization, wavefront and the photonic parameters like spin and orbital angular momentum of THz wave. The above manipulation can be carried out directly at the radiation source or additional functional devices in the transmission process. In this paper, several representative source- and device-based THz manipulation technologies are introduced, and the basic principles, development history and latest progress are summarized. The development of THz manipulation technology will lay a solid foundation for the further application of THz wave.
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    Focusing on ChatGPT: development, impact, and challenges
    LUO Ge, ZHANG Xinpeng
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2023, 45 (2): 106-108.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2023.02.004
    Abstract （4387）      PDF（pc） （1672KB）（3184）       Save
    ChatGPT is a product of the continuous development and an optimization of a large-scale natural language model GPT. Recently, it has received a great deal of attentions from both academia and industry. “He” uses the most basic language communication form to complete interactions with anyone, and paves the way for language to connect to the multimodal world. In this article, we retrospect the development history of ChatGPT and introduce its impact on multimodality, personalization, and interactivity. Finally, we discuss potential issues that may arise in the current and future applications of ChatGPT.
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     DeepSeek: From probabilistic generation to causal reasoning
    ZHAO Gejian, ZHANG Xinpeng
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2025, 47 (2): 79-84.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2025.02.001
    Abstract （2423）      PDF（pc） （1555KB）（4348）       Save
     The emergence of DeepSeek R1 marks a historic paradigm shift in artificial intelligence research. This groundbreaking achievement overturns the long-held dogma of traditional AI systems reliant on probabilistic generation and pattern matching. Through the deep integration of chain-of-thought and reinforcement learning, it pioneers industrial-scale AI reasoning capabilities for the first time. Its innovative reasoning architecture not only dramatically reduces the cost of training specialized AI models but also demonstrates human-like chain-of-thought characteristics in complex tasks such as mathematical proofs and logical reasoning, driving a profound transformation from probabilistic generation to causal reasoning and ushering in a new era of AI technological development. This paper traces the evolutionary trajectory of the DeepSeek model series, highlights key innovations in its chain-of thought framework and model architecture, and concludes with a discussion on the safety implications of its chain-of-thought.
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    A review of formation control for unmanned surface vehicles
    BAO Lingzhi, DU Jiahui, HU Xinming, YUAN Xiaoyu, WENG Lei, ZHONG Yuxuan
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2023, 45 (3): 207-216.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2023.03.005
    Abstract （1726）      PDF（pc） （5522KB）（4737）       Save
    In order to adapt to various combat tasks in the increasingly complex marine environment, unmanned surface vehicles usually operate cooperatively in a group mode, among which unmanned surface vehicles formation control has developed rapidly in recent years. The present paper reviews the development of unmanned surface vehicle structures presently, and discusses the latest research of three key technologies, i.e., unmanned surface vehicles tasks assignment, formation control and obstacle avoidance. Finally, the research directions and future trends of unmanned vehicle formation control are summarized and prospected.
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    Weathering fluxes and carbon sink in continental silicate rock
    LUO Kai, MA Jinlong, WEI Gangjian, ZHU Guanhong, WANG Jiahao, WANG Zhibing
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2025, 47 (1): 52-63.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2025.01.006
    Abstract （996）      PDF（pc） （2567KB）（1324）       Save
    Weathering of continental silicate rocks and subsequent carbonate burial are crucial geological processes for removing carbon dioxide from surface carbon pools, and are widely recognized that is important for regulating global atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and the evolution of Earth's climate. Accurate assessment of the weathering flfluxes of continental silicate rocks and their CO2 consumption flfluxes has long been a signifificant frontier of geoscientifific research. In this view, this paper systematically compiles the calculational models and their key parameters for quantifying weathering flfluxes of silicate rocks, reviews the advantages, disadvantages, and scope of each model, and anticipates how weathering flfluxes of silicate rocks can be more accurately quantifified in the future. In addition, based on the existing weathering flfluxes calculation model, the global CO2 flfluxes consumed by chemical weathering of silicate rocks are comprehensively assessed, and a qualitative and/or quantitative basis for discriminating climate change due to weathering is proposed.

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    The changes of Arctic sea ice and their impacts
    CHEN Jinlei, KANG Shichang
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (5): 330-336.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.05.002
    Abstract （4080）      PDF（pc） （5253KB）（1584）       Save
    The Arctic cryosphere has experienced substantial changes under global warming. Arctic sea ice has been steadily receding, with diminishing area,  thickness, and volume in recent decades. It is projected that the sea ice will vanish entirely during summers by mid-century. This decline in Arctic sea ice has profound impacts on ecosystems, atmospheric circulation, ocean currents, mid-latitude weather and climate, as well as socio-economic development. The study on the changes of Arctic sea ice and their impacts is vital for the Arctic’s sustainable development. Additionally, it also helps to enhance China's discourse power, and safeguard our interests in the Arctic.
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    Target observation and extreme weather forecasts
    DUAN Wansuo, QIN Xiaohao, YANG Lichao
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (6): 395-405.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.06.001
    Abstract （888）      PDF（pc） （4864KB）（796）       Save
    Target observation is a new observational strategy to improve forecast level of extreme weather events. Under the promotion of the Observing System Research and Predictability Experiment proposed by the World Meteorological Organization in 2003, a lot of scientific research and field campaigns for target observation have been worldwidely conducted and effectively upgraded the forecast level of relevant extreme weather events. Chinese scientists started late in target observations; however, they have achieved breakthroughs in the past decade or so. In this article, we introduce the idea of target observation and elucidate the crucial issues for target observations. We also overview the field campaigns conducted for target observations in the world and review both the progresses in research and the efforts in implementing field campaigns for target observation associated with tropical cyclone forecasts in China.
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    Climate change and carbon neutrality
    ZHOU Tianjun, CHEN Xiaolong, ZHANG Wenxia, ZHANG Lixia
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (1): 1-11.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.01.001
    Abstract （8176）      PDF（pc） （3339KB）（3801）       Save
    Since the industrial revolution, carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere has risen sharply due to the widely-used fossil fuel, leading to global warming and frequent extreme climate events. To effectively confront and mitigate the climate change, in the Paris Agreement, the international community set warming targets to hold the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 ℃ above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 ℃ above pre-industrial levels. The concept of carbon neutrality starts spreading and known by larger communities. Here, we introduced some basic facts of global warming and the effect of anthropogenic carbon emission on the warming, summarized main results with respect to future climate changes, elucidated the relationship between 1.5/2 ℃ warming threshold and the carbon neutral, and finally overviewed the efforts of carbon reduction made by international community to effectively adapt to and mitigate the global warming.
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    A brief perspective of fourth-generation semiconductors
    ZHU Hongwei
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (6): 444-447.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.05.015
    Abstract （1826）      PDF（pc） （1323KB）（1618）       Save
    Compared with the first three generations of semiconductors, the fourth-generation semiconductors have not only achieved breakthroughs in material types but also made a qualitative leap in performance, showing great application potential in multiple fields. This article outlines the definition, classification, core advantages, application fields, and prospects of fourth-generation semiconductors, and points out the challenges they face.
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    Development of large-scale user facilities for photon science in China
    LIU Zhi, WAN Weishi, WANG Dong
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2024, 46 (3): 161-172.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2024.03.001
    Abstract （2395）      PDF（pc） （9529KB）（3204）       Save
    Large-scale user facilities for photon science, including synchrotron radiation sources and free-electron lasers, produce high flux, high brightness light with photon energy ranging from infrared to hard X-ray and continuously tunable. As a result, synchrotron radiation sources and free-electron lasers become the centers of scientific research for multiple fields such as physics, chemistry, material science, life sciences, energy, and environmental sciences over the past half a century. In China, synchrotron radiation sources and free-electron lasers have been developed for four decades and state-of-the-art facilities are under construction, making China one of the major powers of these facilities. In this paper, the history and present state of synchrotron radiation sources and free-electron lasers in China are described through introducing the existing and upcoming facilities, with brief discussions on future development.
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    Structure and physical properties of gallium-based liquid metal
    ZHANG Chunxiao, CUI Dandan, DU Yi, XU Xun, ZHONG Jianxin, REN Long
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2023, 45 (5): 340-354.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2023.05.003
    Abstract （2104）      PDF（pc） （5439KB）（4444）       Save
    Gallium (Ga)-based liquid metals (LMs), due to their good fluidity and high electrical/thermal conductivity, yield many attractive room-temperature properties different from solid metal materials and even overcome some bottlenecks that solid metal cannot reach. Therefore, Ga-LMs exhibit great application prospects in flexible devices, soft robots, and others. The unique physical properties of Ga-LMs are closely related to their atomic structures, bonding, and valence relationship, as well as their electronic properties. An in-depth understanding of the basic structure and physical properties of Ga-LMs is of great significance for the research and application of liquid metal materials. In this review, we briefly introduce the theories and analytical methods commonly used for studying the basic physical properties of liquid metal, through the aspect of the microscopic atomic structure. Accordingly, some most attractive properties of Ga-LMs are reviewed and discussed. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for the study and application of LMs are discussed as well.
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    Research progress in fluid actuation technology of soft robot
    LIN Yangqiao, ZHANG Quan, JIN Tao, PANG Meng, YANG Xiaoli, QI Yuxuan, XIA Binrong, QIAN Changxu, WANG Kang, LI Long, TIAN Yingzhong
    Chinese Journal of Nature    2023, 45 (3): 217-233.   DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2023.03.006
    Abstract （2232）      PDF（pc） （3408KB）（2935）       Save
    In recent years, soft robots have been the research focus in the field of robot research. Their main structures are made of hyperelastic materials or flexible materials, which have unique advantages in compliance, safety, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
    With the development of the soft robot, the choice of its actuating mode has been particularly important. As one of the important
    actuating modes of the soft robot, the fluid actuating technology can fully adapt to the complex motion of the soft robot under a high degree of freedom. We review the applications of traditional fluid actuation technologies (such as pneumatic actuation and hydraulic actuation), and discuss the latest intelligent fluid actuation technologies (such as hydraulically amplified self-healing electrostatic and electro-conjugate fluid), as well as the research progress of all-software fluid basic components. Finally, the future key research directions of fluid actuation technology are proposed.
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