Zhuang Ethnic Group Research Articles

Promoting Traditional Music Literacy: A Case Study of Tuhu Preservation through School Education

This study investigates the current promotion of traditional music literacy through the preservation and integration of the Tuhu, a two-stringed bowed instrument deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Zhuang ethnic group, into school education. Despite its cultural significance, the Tuhu faces challenges such as declining skilled practitioners, limited formal educational initiatives, and insufficient institutional support. Employing a qualitative methodology, this research focuses on educational institutions in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, where the Tuhu holds historical and cultural importance. Data were gathered through interviews, observations, and document analysis involving five key informants, including educators, performers, and cultural practitioners. The findings reveal significant barriers, including the aging demographic of Tuhu practitioners, lack of formal curricula, and minimal integration into school programs. However, schools were identified as critical platforms for advancing Tuhu literacy through structured programs, interdisciplinary approaches, and digital tools. The study highlights the need for tailored educational resources, teacher training, and supportive policies to preserve and transmit this unique tradition. It concludes that integrating the Tuhu into school curricula can foster cultural awareness, strengthen Zhuang identity, and ensure the instrument’s survival. Future research should explore digital innovations, community-driven models, and comparative studies on traditional music preservation.

중국 민족민간무용 멜대춤(扁擔舞)의 전승 현황 연구 : 광서성(廣西省) 가방(加方)중학교를 중심으로

The Biandan dance of the Zhuang ethnic group in Guangxi, China, is a folk dance with a complex identity, blending entertainment, artistry, education, and physical exercise. While most Chinese ethnic folk dances are primarily preserved through university arts programs, the Biandan dance is taught in various forms to students across elementary, middle, and high schools. This study aims to analyze how the Biandan dance is taught to students at Jiafang Middle School in Guangxi, with the goal of providing a foundation for the development of programs to promote and transmit various other ethnic folk dances in other regions of China. The results of the analysis on the teaching of the Biandan dance at Jiafang Middle School are as follows. First, the teaching of the dance has been facilitated through policies and financial support provided by the local Chinese government. Second, Biandan dance classes are held weekly for first-year students, and a “Biandan Dance Choreography Competition” is organized every semester. Third, in addition to regular Biandan dance classes, special activity hours (exercise times) are allocated for creative activities, such as dance choreography and prop creation. Fourth, the school continuously promotes the folk culture of Guangxi on its bulletin boards and has established a folk culture exhibition room to introduce students to this aspect of traditional Chinese culture. This study is expected to expand public awareness of Chinese ethnic folk dances and encourage further educational and athletic activity related to them, while at the same time prompting a reevaluation of their cultural value to enhance transmission and development.

Innovative Development of Zhuang Excellent Traditional Culture in the Era of Integrated Media

Chinese culture represents the rich tapestry of various ethnic traditions. The development of these diverse cultures is essential for the overall prosperity of Chinese civilization. Therefore, promoting the innovative advancement of the Zhuang ethnic group's traditional culture can bolster their cultural confidence, preserve the diversity of Chinese culture, strengthen national identity, foster ethnic unity and progress, enrich spiritual and cultural life, and support rural community development. In today's rapidly evolving integrated media landscape, driven by information technology, the innovative development of the Zhuang's traditional culture encounters significant opportunities. In this study, we first explored the value foundation of innovative development of excellent traditional culture of the Zhuang ethnic group in the era of integrated media. Then, we analyzed the promoting effect of integrated media technology on the innovative development of excellent traditional culture of the Zhuang ethnic group in the new media ecological environment. Finally, we summarized how to fully utilize new technological means, create an integrated media matrix, and leverage resource integration advantages to achieve innovative development of excellent traditional culture of the Zhuang ethnic group. The research results are conducive to deeply exploring the contemporary value of excellent traditional culture of the Zhuang ethnic group and activating its cultural vitality, continuously promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of excellent traditional culture in China, thereby promoting the prosperity and development of cultural undertakings and cultural industries.

Association of multiple urinary metals/metalloids with obesity defined by body fat percentage: A cross-sectional study among Guangxi Zhuang ethnic in China

BackgroundPrevious studies confirmed a link between urinary metals/metalloids and obesity; however, the majority of these studies defined obesity using body mass index (BMI) or waist circumference (WC), and their results were not constantly consistent. Studies defining obesity based on body fat percentage (BFP) is less reported. MethodsA total of 5405 participants aged 35–74 from Guangxi Zhuang ethnic group in China were included in the analysis. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to detect the concentrations of 22 metals/metalloids in urine. Using a binary logistic regression model, the impact of individual metal/metalloid on the risk of BFP/obesity was analyzed, and the LASSO regression model was employed to choose metals/metalloids independently related with BFP/obesity to construct a multiple-metal models. The quantile g-computation model was used to evaluate the combined impacts of metals/metalloids on BFP/obesity. ResultsIn multiple-metal models, compared with the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of urinary concentrations of Mg, Cd, and Ti was significantly associated with a reduced risk of BFP/obesity (Mg: OR=0.66, 95 %CI: 0.51, 0.85; Cd: OR=0.63, 95 %CI: 0.49, 0.82; Ti: OR=0.73, 95 %CI: 0.57, 0.93). Conversely, the highest quartiles of urinary concentrations of Zn, V, and Sb was significantly associated with an increased risk of BFP/obesity (Zn: OR=1.75, 95 %CI: 1.39, 2.22; V: OR=1.63, 95 %CI: 1.25, 2.14; Sb: OR=1.38, 95 %CI: 1.06, 1.79). In quantile g-computation analysis, Mg, Cd, and Sn were the main contributors to negative effects, while Zn, V, and Sb were the main contributors to positive effect, although no significant relationship was observed between the multiple metal/metalloid mixtures and BFP/obesity. ConclusionsAccording to our study, urinary Mg, Cd, and Ti levels were negatively associated with BFP/obesity risk, and Zn, V, and Sb levels were positively associated with BFP/obesity risk. However, these associations need to be further verified by longitudinal studies, and the molecular mechanisms need to be further explored by animal and cell experiments.

Association between DEFB1 rs11362 and Caries Susceptibility in Permanent Dentition: A Cross Sectional Study.

Dental caries is a multifactorial chronic bacterial infectious disease. Variations in the predisposition of the general population to dental cavities suggest that genetic and immunological factors play significant roles in its pathogenesis. This study aims to explore the impact of the Beta-Defensin 1 (DEFB1) rs11362 polymorphism on caries susceptibility in permanent dentition among the Bai Kuyao and Zhuang ethnic groups in China. A sample of 754 adolescents aged 12-15 was randomly selected from primary and junior high schools in Nandan County, Guangxi, China. All adolescents underwent clinical examinations, and DNA samples were collected. The genotype of DEFB1 rs11362 was determined using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) typing. The concentration of human β Defensin 1 (hBD-1) protein in saliva was measured using a double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The distribution of the DEFB1 rs11362 T allele was lower in the Bai Kuyao group compared to the Zhuang group. The disparity in the rs11362 genotype was statistically significant in the superficial dentin caries subgroup of the Bai Kuyao population (p = 0.017). Following adjustment for all potential confounding variables, the analysis revealed a heightened risk of superficial dental caries among CT genotype carriers in the Bai Kuyao population under a co-dominant model (odds ratios (OR) = 2.70; 95% confidence intervals (CI) [1.35-5.44]; p = 0.005), and an increased risk among CC genotype carriers in the Bai Kuyao population under a dominant model (OR = 2.35; 95% CI [1.18-4.67]; p = 0.015). A significant difference (p < 0.05) was noted in the distribution of rs11362 genotypes and salivary hBD-1 levels among the Bai Kuyao group. Salivary hBD-1 levels were notably higher in the CC genotype group (4.12 ± 2.07 ng/mL) compared to both the CT (2.77 ± 1.62 ng/mL) and TT genotype groups (2.32 ± 0.98 ng/mL). The DEFB1 rs11362 polymorphism showed an association with caries susceptibility in permanent teeth and influenced hBD-1 protein expression in saliva. Consequently, the DEFB1 polymorphism likely represents a concealed risk factor for caries.

Ethnicity-based analysis of supragingival plaque composition and dental health behaviours in healthy subjects without caries

ObjectiveThe primary objective of this study was to scrutinise the disparities in the diversity, structure, and function of the oral microbiome among caries-free children from the Zhuang and Han ethnic groups with a focus on the influence of ethnically distinct oral health behaviours on the composition of the oral microbiota. MethodsA questionnaire survey was conducted to assess oral health behaviours and dental plaque samples were collected from 96 Zhuang and Han children aged 4–5 years living in Guangxi, southern China for high-throughput sequencing. PCR amplification was performed for sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rDNA gene, and second-generation sequencing was performed using the Illumina MiSeq platform to compare and analyse the diversity, structure and function of the microbiota. ResultsSingle-factor analysis revealed significant differences between the Zhuang and Han ethnic groups regarding juice consumption, the frequency of consuming sugar-sweetened food or beverages before bedtime, the age that individuals started toothbrushing, the frequency of toothbrushing and the frequency of parental assistance with toothbrushing (p < 0.001). The dominant phyla were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, etc., and the dominant genera included Streptococcus and Neisseria. The dental plaques of the caries-free Zhuang and Han ethnic groups had similar core microbiomes, with no significant differences in the diversity and structure of the microbiota and no significant differences in the abundance of the dominant genera. In addition, no significant difference in metabolic function was observed between the Zhuang and Han ethnic groups. ConclusionThe core oral microbiota was consistent in caries-free Zhuang and Han children. Despite differences in dietary habits and oral hygiene behaviours between the Zhuang and Han ethnic groups, with a high frequency of sugary food intake but better oral health behaviours in the Zhuang group, there were no significant differences in the diversity, structure and function of the oral microbiota of caries-free children in the Zhuang and Han ethnic groups.

Analysis of Thalassemia Gene Mutation Types and Ethnic Distribution Characteristics in Hechi Area, Guangxi

To investigate the genotype, mutation type, and ethnic distribution characteristics of thalassemia in the population of Hechi area, Guangxi, and to provide a reference basis for prevention and control of thalassemia and eugenic counseling in the region. Gap-polymerase chain reaction (gap-PCR) and reverse dot blot (RDB) were used for genetic testing on suspected thalassemia persons, and the results were analyzed. Among 29 136 samples, a total of 17 016 (58.40%) positive samples for thalassemia genes were detected, with a higher detection rate in males than in females (χ2=49.917，P < 0.001). The detection rates of thalassemia genes were significant different among Zhuang, Han, Yao, Mulao, and Maonan ethnic groups (χ2=546.121, P < 0.001). The α-thalassemia genotypes were mainly --SEA /αα (16.67%), -α3.7/αα (8.90%), α CSα/αα (6.00%). Additionally, four rare genotypes were detected, including -- THAI/αα (47 cases), HKαα/αα (2 cases), --SEA /-α 21.9 (2 cases), and -- THAI/αCSα (1 case). The β-thalassemia genotypes were mainly β CD17/βN (7.49%), βCD41-42/βN (6.70%), βCD71-72/βN (0.44%). 108 cases of moderate and severe β-thalassemia were detected, of which 81 cases had a history of blood transfusion, the transfusion frequency of 60 cases was more than 10 times/year, and 10 cases received bone marrow transplantation. Thalassemia in Hechi area is predominantly deletion type --SEA /αα, the detection rate of thalassemia in ethnic minorities is higher than that in Han population. In this area, moderate and severe β-thalassemia have certain incidence, these patients mostly need regular blood transfusion and iron removal treatment, and very few patients have received bone marrow transplantation. This study provides a certain reference basis for prevention and control of thalassemia and eugenic counseling in the region.

Literacy Preservation of the Zhuang Ethnic Group’s Folk Song “Fwen Sam Ngued” in Pingguo, Guangxi, China

This study focuses on the literacy preservation of the Zhuang ethnic group’s folk song “Fwen Sam Ngued” in Pingguo, Guangxi, China, which is critical for maintaining cultural identity and legacy. This preservation endeavor is centered on understanding and conserving the Haleu song, which is an important component of Zhuang folk music culture. The Haleu song, with its distinctive melody and duet style, serves as the principal expression in the performance of “Fwen Sam Ngued.” Singers’ varied interpretations of the melodies in “Fwen Sam Ngued” demonstrate the dynamic nature of oral tradition and knowledge transfer. Zhuang folk music knowledge preservation strategies emphasize the importance of lyrics, oral transmission, and singing in various aspects of life. Furthermore, the modern-day growth of Zhuang song fairs highlights the importance of proactive preservation efforts in the face of societal change. By supporting literacy and cultural preservation projects, the Zhuang people’s unique musical history can be preserved for future generations.

Clinical Analysis of Y Chromosome Microdeletions and Chromosomal Aberrations in 1596 Male Infertility Patients of the Zhuang Ethnic Group in Guangxi.

The long arm of the Y chromosome (Yq) contains many amplified and palindromic sequences that are prone to self-reorganization during spermatogenesis, and tiny submicroscopic segmental deletions in the proximal Yq are called Y chromosome microdeletions (YCM). A retrospective study was conducted on male infertility patients of Zhuang ethnicity who presented at Reproductive Medical Center of Nanningbetween January 2015 and May 2023. Seminal fluid was collected for standard examination. YCM were detected by using a combination of multiplex PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis. Preparation of peripheral blood chromosomes and karyotyping of chromosomes was performed. 147 cases (9.22%) of YCM were detected in 1596 maleinfertility patients of Zhuang ethnicity. Significant difference was found in the detection rate of YCM between the azoospermia group and the oligospermia group (P < 0.001). Of all types of YCM, the highest detection rate was AZFc (n = 83), followed by AZFb + c (n = 28). 264 cases (16.54%) of sex chromosomal aberrations were detected. The most prevalent karyotype was 47, XXY (n = 202). The detection rate of sex chromosomal aberrations in azoospermia group was higher than that in severe oligospermia group and oligospermia group, and the differences were significant (P < 0.001). 28 cases (1.57%) of autosomal aberrations and 105 cases (6.58%) of chromosomal polymorphism were identified. The current research has some limitations due to the lack of normal men as the control group but suggests that YCM and chromosomal aberrations represent key genetic factors influencing spermatogenesis in infertile males of Zhuang ethnicity in Guangxi.

The role of Zhuang stringed instruments in the Zhuang autonomous region of Guangxi, China: A cultural analysis

This study explores the function and role of musical stringed instruments among the Zhuang ethnic group in China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Through ethnographic fieldwork, participant observation, interviews, and content analysis of cultural artifacts, the study investigates the multifaceted significance of these instruments within Zhuang culture. Findings reveal that Zhuang stringed instruments play integral roles in entertainment, emotional expression, relaxation, community performances, cultural exchange, stage arts, and folk rituals. The Maguhu is a prominent instrument, particularly in solo performances and Zhuangju accompaniment, reflecting its unique timbre and cultural importance. Through their diverse functions, these instruments serve as vital conduits for preserving Zhuang heritage, fostering community cohesion, and facilitating cultural communication. Understanding the nuanced roles of Zhuang stringed instruments enriches our appreciation of Zhuang culture and underscores their significance in cultural identity and heritage preservation.

Progress in Gene Polymorphisms Associated With Osteoporosis Susceptibility in Zhuang Ethnic Group in Guangxi

The purpose of this paper is to systematically summarize the gene polymorphisms associated with osteoporosis(OP)susceptibility in Zhuang ethnic group in Guangxi.These genes mainly encode vitamin D receptor,estrogen receptor,calcitonin receptor,and adiponectin.The genotype and allele distribution frequency were compared between Zhuang ethnic group and other ethnic groups,which can clarify the existing genes and the potential gene polymorphism associated with OP in Zhuang ethnic group.The findings provide a representative solution for the subsequent research on the genes associated with OP susceptibility in ethnic minorities.

Abstract B036: Mutational landscape and genetic feature of gastric adenocarcinoma in multiple Chinese ethnicities

Abstract Gastric cancer is a heterogeneous malignancy and the fifth most common cancer worldwide, with 44% of cases occurring in China. Elucidation of genetic subtypes may improve gastric cancer treatment planning. Matched tumour and peritumoural (non-malignant gastric mucosa) tissue samples were collected from 306 Chinese patients and subjected to whole-exome sequencing (WES). The results were used to produce a Chinese Gastric Cancer Genome Atlas (CGCGA). Patients from nine Chinese ethnic groups (Han, Zhuang, Hui, Uygur, Yi, Tibetan, Mongolian, Bai, and Kazakh), representing 95% of the Chinese population were included. Systematic comparison of CGCGA data with TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) data, in which 437 gastric cancer cases are represented, showed that genomic alteration signatures in the present cohort differed markedly from those reported for Western cohorts. TP53 and FAT1 deletions were more frequent (35% vs. 0%) while ARID1A deletions (13% vs. 25%), MYC oncogene amplifications (53% vs. 70%), and SMAD4 deletions (34% vs. 46%) were less frequent in our CGCGA data than in the TCGA data. TRIM49B mutation was associated with worse survival. Thus, TRIM49B was identified as a novel oncogene. The Zhuang ethnic group had a much higher tumour mutation burden (TMB) than the other ethnic groups. Typically, tumours from Han group had microsatellite stability, whereas those from the other groups had microsatellite instability (MSI). We further propose a molecular classification of four gastric cancer subtypes that are associated with distinct survival outcomes: TP53 mutation positive (TP53+)/TTN_missense+; TP53+/TTN_missense–; TP53–/TTN_missense+, and TP53–/TTN_missense–. Our study established a comprehensive gastric cancer genome atlas in China and underscored the importance of considering population context in genomic mapping and rational treatment options for the disease. Citation Format: Liang Zong. Mutational landscape and genetic feature of gastric adenocarcinoma in multiple Chinese ethnicities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Translating Cancer Evolution and Data Science: The Next Frontier; 2023 Dec 3-6; Boston, Massachusetts. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(3 Suppl_2):Abstract nr B036.

A new labdane diterpenoid from Scoparia dulcis improving pancreatic function against islets cell apoptotic by Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase-3 pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceScoparia dulcis has been identified as a significant ethnopharmacological substance in the Li, Zhuang, and Dai ethnic groups of China. Traditional medicine use S. dulcis to treat numerous illnesses, most notably diabetes. The considerable antidiabetic properties of this herbal remedy have been established by several clinical investigations and animal experiments. The islet is the intended target of S. dulcis, although the cause of its activity and mechanism for diabetes treatment is unclear. The diterpenoids from S. dulcis have been shown in the literature to have significant hypoglycemic efficacy and to protect islet cells in vitro. Diterpenoids may be the components of this herbal remedy that preserve islets, but further research is needed. Aim of the studyThis study was projected to investigate the new diterpenoid scoparicol E from S. dulcis and examined its islet-protective effect and the potential mechanism both in vitro and in vivo. MethodsThe structure of the novel diterpenoid scoparicol E was clarified by employing a wide range of spectroscopic methods. Using CCK-8 tests, cytotoxicity and antiapoptotic activity of scoparicol E were detected. Serum biochemical analysis and pathologic examination were performed to study the protective effect of scoparicol E against islet damage. The specific mechanism of action of scoparicol E was investigated through the mitochondrial membrane potential, Annexin V-FITC flow cytometry, and western blotting. ResultsScoparicol E reduced MLD-STZ-induced hyperglycemia in mice and increased insulin and islet apoptosis. Scoparicol E effectively suppressed the Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase-3 pathway, according to the in vivo western blot investigation. Scoparicol E showed significant antiapoptotic action in vitro. We also showed that scoparicol E might prevent islet cells from dying by inhibiting the Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase-3 pathway. The Annexin V-FITC flow cytometry results revealed that MIN6 cell apoptosis was considerably decreased following scoparicol E intervention, showing anti-islet cell apoptosis action. Furthermore, the Caspase-3-mediated apoptosis pathway depends on cytochrome c and the potential of the mitochondrial membrane. Scoparicol E prevented the release of cytochrome c, restored the mitochondrial membrane potential, and prevented MIN6 cell apoptosis. ConclusionWe demonstrated the new diterpenoid scoparicol E could protect islet cells apoptosis by modulating the Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase-3 pathway.

Investigation and analysis on the detection of IgG antibodies against the rubella virus among rural childbearing-age women in preconception period in Yunnan Province from 2013 to 2019

A study was conducted on rural women of childbearing age aged 20-49 who underwent the National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP)in Yunnan Province from 2013 to 2019. Descriptive analysis was conducted to determine the negative rate of IgG antibodies against the rubella virus and its differences among various socio-demographic characteristics. Among the 1 511 203 study subjects, the negative rate of IgG antibodies against the rubella virus was 24.36%. Only 2.64% of the population had received rubella virus vaccine. The negative rate of IgG antibodies among rural childbearing-age women in the preconception period in Yunnan Province decreased with age and educational level (Ptrend<0.001). The negative rate of IgG antibodies in ethnic minority women of childbearing age in the preconception period (25.19%) was higher than that of Han women (23.88%). Among the 22 ethnic groups with over 1 000 participants, the negative rates of IgG antibodies in women of childbearing age from the Blang (32.85%), Bouyei (31.03%), Zhuang (31.01%), and Miao (30.70%) ethnic groups were higher than those of women from other ethnic groups. Among the 16 states (cities) in Yunnan Province, the negative rate of IgG antibodies in pregnant women of childbearing age in Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (38.06%) and Lincang City (32.63%) was higher than that in other states (cities). The negative rate of serum IgG antibodies in women who reported having received rubella virus vaccine (18.60%) was lower than that in other non-vaccinated populations (24.52%). The proportion of rural women of childbearing age in Yunnan Province who were susceptible to the rubella virus before pregnancy was still high. It is necessary to promote rubella vaccination among people susceptible to rubella, especially pregnant women, to prevent rubella virus infection and reduce the incidence rate and disease burden of rubella people.

Wild edible plants and their cultural significance among the Zhuang ethnic group in Fangchenggang, Guangxi, China

IntroductionFangchenggang is situated in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, renowned for its rich biodiversity and ethnically diverse population. The Zhuang people, constituting the largest minority group in the area, possess a wealth of traditional knowledge concerning wild edible plants (WEPs) owing to the region's favorable environment and dietary customs. With the rapid development of urbanization, tourism, and trade, the Zhuang people's food culture, including the consumption of wild edible plants, has become an attractive aspect of urban development. However, there is almost no comprehensive report available on WEPs consumed by the Zhuang people. The objectives of this study were to: (1) conduct a comprehensive ethnobotanical investigation of the WEPs among the Zhuang people in the region; (2) evaluate the cultural food significance index (CFSI) for the local communities; (3) summarize the cultural characteristics of the wild edible plants consumed, providing scientific support for the development of Fangchenggang as a sustainable and attractive tourism destination.MethodsEthnobotanical investigation including market surveys, semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews and participatory observations was conducted in Fangchenggang from January 2021 to March 2023. A total of 137 informants were selected using the snowball method. Information about WEPs, including vernacular names, food categories, parts used, mode of consumption, collecting season, and recipes, was collected and recorded. The CFSI (cultural food significance index) was calculated to identify the most culturally significant WEPs.ResultsA total of 163 species of wild edible plants consumed by the Zhuang people were identified, belonging to 67 families. The main categories of WEPs include wild vegetables (69) and tea substitutes (42). The most commonly consumed parts are fruits (37), followed by whole plants (33) and leaves (21), with herbaceous plants (74) being the most numerous. The availability of wild edible plants remains high throughout the year, with the peak seasons occurring in August and October, and significant abundance also noted in July and November. In the highly significant category (CFSI > 500), a total of 15 plant species were identified, which play a crucial role in the local diet. Additionally, 17 alien species have become part of the local consumption of wild plants, with 7 species listed as invasive alien species.Discussion and ConclusionsThis study documented 163 wild edible plant species and their associated traditional knowledge of the Zhuang people. The research identified culturally significant WEPs and analyzed their multiple uses. The historical development of wild plant consumption in Fangchenggang showed the strong influence of natural and social environments on the Zhuang ethnic group's dietary traditions. The WEPs are characterized by “sour food”, “fresh ingredients” and “cold dishes”, aligning with their health-oriented philosophy of “homology of medicine and food”. Future prospects encompass the cultivation of economically sustainable wild edible plants (WEPs), the preservation of their traits through cross-breeding, ensuring safe consumption through research and safety evaluations, and advocating for the preservation of WEPs' culinary culture to support tourism and sustainable urban development.

Priority management measures based on analyses of conservation effectiveness and threat factors for medicinal plants used by three ethnic groups in China

Ethnic minority medicinal plants (EMMPs), an important valuable resource of traditional medicine, are experiencing an unprecedented risk of extinction due to various threat factors, and there is a profound lack of systematic and comprehensive research regarding their geographical distribution and conservation effectiveness. In this study, we investigated the distribution pattern for 1893 EMMPs used by the Miao, Zhuang, and Dai ethnic groups in southwest China based on >400,000 occurrence records and identified four classes of hotspots based on thresholds of top 5 %, top 10 %, top 17 %, and top 30 %, and then assessed the conservation effectiveness of the current protection networks for the hotspots and analyzed the threat factors experienced by endangered EMMPs. Although there were apparent differences in distribution patterns among the EMMPs, the hotspots of all EMMPs were mostly confined to southwest China, particularly the provincial boundary regions, which contained >98.78 % of EMMPs. The combined conservation effectiveness indicated that >68.16 % of hotspots and 98.47 % of EMMPs were protected, and provincial nature reserves played a more important role in hotspot conservation. But >18.18 % of all hotspots were unprotected. Moreover, plants where roots or the complete herbs were used for medicine were at higher risk of extinction. Over-harvesting associated with an increasing population was the key driver causing EMMPs to become endangered. We suggest that optimization of conservation networks, changes in the medical usages of plants or their parts, and promotion of artificial cultivation to ensure extensive resources.

Ethnic Homology and China Identity Effect of Division-Unification Law in Ancient China

In the thousands of years of development and evolution of ancient China, sometimes it split, sometimes it unified, but after each division, there would be greater unification, which is the law of division and unification in ancient Chinese history. Why does this law come into being? The study found that there are two fundamental reasons: one is all major ethnic groups in China have common blood and ethnic origin. Second, based on this same root and homology, China complex and China identity effect were formed. The analysis of a large number of prehistoric myths and legends of Zhuang, Yao, Hun, Xianbei and many other ethnic groups, as well as the rich historical documents of the Central Plains Empire, shows that many ethnic groups that had appeared in history have consanguinity and cultural homology with the Central Plains, which was regarded as the core area of Chinese orthodox culture. Just because of the limitation of historical conditions, it was inconvenient for them to communicate with the Central Plains. As time goes on, the two sides did not understand enough and the development level was different, which gradually widened the gap.

A Concerto Resonance Between the Chinese Zhuang Customs and the Topic of Poverty Alleviation: Exploring the Artistic Value and Spiritual Connotation of Zhuang Drama Huang Wenxiu

Huang Wenxiu is a Zhuang drama based on the poverty alleviation work of Huang Wenxiu, who is an outstanding selected graduate from Guangxi and also the first secretary of Baini village. The drama has not only humorous and emotional stage effects, strong romantic sentiment, and realistic critical spirit, but also typical characteristics of the era, vivid artistic images and a strong ethnic style. This drama embodies unique aesthetic values, vividly interpreting the values of the era and the spirit of Guangxi, highlighting the artistic consciousness and practical innovation of Zhuang drama art to express the era and eulogise it, and responding to the aesthetic expectations of the Zhuang ethnic group. Displaying the unique national spirit and the great spirit of the era in the narrative and stage presentation of the drama will also become a feasible path for the innovative development of Zhuang drama.

Epidemiology of extrapulmonary tuberculosis in central Guangxi from 2016 to 2021.

The burden of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) has gradually increased in recent years, but not enough epidemiological data is available from central Guangxi. To better understand the epidemiology of EPTB in central Guangxi and identify risk factors associated with them, we retrospectively investigated the epidemiology of tuberculosis (TB), especially EPTB, among patients admitted to the Chest Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region between 2016 and 2021. We excluded those infected with both pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and EPTB, reported the proportion and incidence of PTB or EPTB, and compared the demographic characteristics and risk factors of EPTB and PTB cases using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Among 30,893TB patients, 67.25% (20,774) had PTB and 32.75% (10,119) had EPTB. Among EPTB, pleural, skeletal, lymphatic, pericardial, meningeal, genitourinary, intestinal, and peritoneal TB accounted for 49.44%, 27.20%, 8.55%, 4.39%, 3.36%, 1.48%, 0.87%, and 0.79%, respectively. Patients who were younger (age < 25), from rural areas, Zhuang and other ethnic groups, and diagnosed with anemia and HIV infection were more likely to develop EPTB. However, patients with diabetes and COPD were less likely to have EPTB. From 2016 to 2021, the proportion of PTB cases decreased from 69.73 to 64.07%. The percentage of EPTB cases increased from 30.27 to 35.93%, with the largest increase in skeletal TB from 21.48 to 34.13%. The epidemiology and risk factors of EPTB in central Guangxi are different from those of PTB. The incidence of EPTB is increasing and further studies are needed to determine the reasons for it.

Birth weights of singleton neonates of 14 Chinese ethnic groups in 11 cities of China

To develop the birth weight curves of the Chinese Han (26-41 weeks of gestation) and Zhuang (28-41 weeks of gestation) singleton neonates in 11 cities of China, as well as the birth weight means of full-term neonates of 14 Chinese ethnic groups. The live singleton neonates who were born in 11 maternal and child health care hospitals from 11 cities of China between January 2017 and December 2020 were classified according to the mother's ethnic group. Birth weight means were calculated for the full-term neonates of each ethnic group. For the Han and Zhuang singleton neonates with a large sample size, the Lambda-Mu-Sigma (LMS) method was used to establish the birth weight percentile curves of the Han and Zhuang singleton neonates with different gestational ages. A total of 105 365 live singleton neonates were included, among whom the Han neonates had the highest number of 84 851 (26-41 weeks of gestation), followed by the Zhuang neonates (12 803 neonates with a gestational age of 28-41 weeks). The neonates of the other Chinese ethnic groups enrolled were live full-term singleton neonates, with a sample size of more than 100 neonates for each ethnic group. The 3rd-97th percentile curves of birth weight were established for the Han singleton neonates with a gestational age of 26-41 weeks and the Zhuang singleton neonates with a gestational age of 28-41 weeks. The birth weight curves of the Han singleton neonates at each gestational age were higher than those of the Zhuang singleton neonates. Birth weight means (3 199-3 499 g) and standard deviations were determined for 14 Chinese ethnic groups, i.e., Li, Mulao, Zhuang, Yao, Dong, Miao, Han, Buyi, Mongolian, Tujia, Yi, Hui, Man, and Korean ethnic groups. The Li ethnic group had the lowest birth weight, followed by the Mulao, Zhuang, Yao, Dong, Miao, Han, Buyi, Mongolian, Tujia, Yi, Hui, Man, and Korean ethnic groups. The 3rd-97th percentile curves of birth weight are developed for the Han (26-41 weeks of gestation) and Zhuang (28-41 weeks of gestation) singleton neonates in 11 cities of China, and birth weight means are determined for the full-term neonates of 14 Chinese ethnic groups in 11 cities of China, which provides a reference for evaluating the intrauterine growth of neonates in these ethnic groups.