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Teacher self-efficacy plays an important role in special education; yet, the literature on the measurement of teacher self-efficacy in this field is limited. This study investigated the psychometric properties of the Teachers' Sense of Efficacy Scale with a sample of Chinese special education teachers (N = 401, 24.19% male). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the Chinese special educational version of the Teacher's Sense of Efficacy Scale (CS-TSES), modified from the Asian model by Ruan, J., Nie, Y., Hong, J., Monobe, G., Zheng, G., Kambara, H., & You, S. (2015). Cross-cultural validation of teachers' sense of efficacy scale in three Asian countries. "Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment," 33(8), 769-779, showed an excellent fit. Additionally, correlations were observed between the results of the CS-TSES and both the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and the Satisfaction with Life Scale, providing criterion-related validity. In sum, the findings indicated that the TSES is applicable to special education teachers in the Chinese context.

The literature on tools of attitudes towards ASD was limited. This study is the first to examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of the multidimensional attitudes scale toward persons with disabilities (MAS) in a sample of Chinese college students (N = 1002, 32.10% males). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the G-MAS-R model's 4-factor structure: calm, negative affect, positive cognitions and behavioral avoidance. The results suggest that the Chinese version of the MAS has satisfactory internal consistency. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the MAS scores were significantly correlated with the Social Distance Scale and Autism Stigma and Knowledge Questionnaire scores. Overall, the findings indicate that the MAS is appropriate for assessing attitudes toward people with ASD in a Chinese context.

Background Since the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection exhibits multi-organ damage with diverse complications, the correlation between age, gender, medical history and clinical manifestations of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients was investigated. Methods 1640 patients who were infected with SARS-CoV-2 and hospitalized at the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University from 22 December 2022 to 1 March 2023 were categorized and analysed. Normal distribution test and variance homogeneity test were performed. Based on the test results, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson's chi-squared test and logistic regression analysis were conducted in the study. Results According to the ANOVA, there was a significant difference in the age distribution (P  = .001) between different clinical presentations, while gender did not (P  = .06). And regression analysis showed that age, hypertension, atherosclerosis and cancer were significant hazard factors for the development of predominant clinical manifestations in patients hospitalized with novel COVID-19. Additionally, infection with SARS-CoV-2 has the potential to exacerbate the burden on specific diseased or related organs. Conclusion The elderly who are infected with SARS-CoV-2 ought to be treated with emphasis not only on antiviral therapy but also on individualized treatment that takes their medical history and comorbidities into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Light-chain proximal tubulopathy (LCPT) is a rare disease characterized by the accumulation of monoclonal light chains within proximal tubular cells. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of LCPT from a single Chinese nephrology referral center.Methods: Patients with kidney biopsy-proven isolated LCPT between 2016 and 2022 at Peking University First Hospital were retrospectively included. Clinical data, kidney pathological type, treatment, and prognosis were analyzed.Results: Nineteen patients were enrolled, the mean age at diagnosis was 57 ± 11 and the sex ratio was 6/13 (female/male). Mean proteinuria was 2.44 ± 1.89 g/24 hr and the mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at the point of biopsy was 59.640 ± 27.449 ml/min/1.73 m2. κ-restriction (84%) was dominant among LCPTs. An abnormal free light chain ratio was observed in 86% of the patients. Proximal tubulopathy with cytoplasmic inclusions accounted for the majority (53%), followed by tubulopathy associated with interstitial inflammation reaction (26%), proximal tubulopathy without cytoplasmic inclusions (16%), and proximal tubulopathy with lysosomal indigestion/constipation (5%). One patient presented with acute kidney injury and 16 patients presented with chronic kidney disease. Regarding follow-up, patients received bortezomib-based or R-CHOP chemotherapy or supportive treatment only. The mean follow-up time was 22 ± 16 months, and the mean eGFR was 63.098 ± 27.439 ml/min/1.73 m2 at the end of follow-up. These patients showed improved or stable kidney function.Conclusions: This is the first case series report of LCPT in four different pathological types in northern China. Clone-targeted chemotherapy may help preserve the kidney function in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations are present in common clinical practices regarding best practice in managing hyperkalaemia (HK), there is therefore a need to establish a multi-specialty approach to optimal rennin-angiotension-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi) usage and HK management in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) & heart failure (HF). This study aimed to establish a multi-speciality approach to the optimal use of RAASi and the management of HK in patients with CKD and HF. A steering expert group of cardiology and nephrology experts across China were convened to discuss challenges to HK management through a nominal group technique. The group then created a list of 41 statements for a consensus questionnaire, which was distributed for a further survey in extended panel group of cardiologists and nephrologists across China. Consensus was assessed using a modified Delphi technique, with agreement defined as "strong" (≥75% and <90%) and "very strong" (≥90%). The steering group, data collection, and analysis were aided by an independent facilitator. A total of 150 responses from 21 provinces across China were recruited in the survey. Respondents were comprised of an even split (n =75, 50%) between cardiologists and nephrologists. All 41 statements achieved the 75% consensus agreement threshold, of which 27 statements attained very strong consensus (≥90% agreement) and 14 attained strong consensus (agreement between 75% and 90%). Based on the agreement levels from respondents, the steering group agreed a set of recommendations intended to improve patient outcomes in the use of RAASi therapy and HK management in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rotting wood in freshwater is a unique eco-environment favoring various fungi. During our investigation of freshwater fungi on decaying wood, three hyphomycetes were collected from Jiangxi and Guangxi Provinces, China. Based on the morphological observations and phylogenetic analysis of a combined DNA data containing ITS, LSU, SSU and tef1-α sequences, two new Trichobotrys species, T. meilingensis and T. yunjushanensis, as well as a new record of T. effusa, were introduced. Additionally, a comprehensive description of the genus with both morphological and molecular data was first provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Having a comprehensive understanding of genetic differentiation, responses to environmental change and demographic history is critical for genetic improvement and conservation efforts. Forest trees are an excellent resource for understanding population differentiation and adaptive genetic variation due to their ability to adapt to different climates and environments. Cephalotaxus oliveri is a relict conifer endemic to China. In this study, we generated transcriptome data and identified 17 728 high‐quality single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 18 populations. We found significant negative correlations between expression diversity and nucleotide diversity within and among populations, suggesting that gene expression and nucleotide diversity have a reciprocal relationship when the species adapts to the environment. The analyses of population structure showed that C. oliveri displayed a striking genetic structure with four groups. BayeScEnv and RDA methods detected the signatures of local adaptation, and identified that 738 outlier SNPs were associated with precipitation, temperature and soil conditions across heterogeneous environmental conditions. Approximate Bayesian computation analyses showed that the first and second divergence occurred in the late Miocene (c. 10.075 million years ago [Ma]) and the middle Pleistocene transition (c. 0.815 Ma), respectively. Ecological niche modeling of C. oliveri revealed signs of westward expansion after the last glacial maximum, while it was predicted to experience significant range contractions in future climate change scenarios. Geographical factors and environmental factors in southern China have played a critical role in establishing the current genetic diversity and population structure of C. oliveri. This study provides an important reference for forest resource management and conservation for C. oliveri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although numerous studies have demonstrated that social support affects a range of life experiences, few have examined its moderating and mediating effects. In the current study, 479 Chinese parents of children with ASD (aged 3-18 years) completed the surveys assessing parenting stress, social support and life satisfaction. Results indicated that parenting stress, social support and life satisfaction were significantly related. Moreover, social support both mediated and moderated the influence of parenting stress on life satisfaction. These findings imply that parenting stress and social support are critical indicators of life satisfaction and can serve as basic intervention strategies that promote life satisfaction among Chinese parents of children with ASD.

The South American tomato pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), has invaded most Afro-Eurasian countries. Since its first detection in China in late 2017, this pest has been now present in nearly 20 provinces/prefectures in China and is threating tomato and other Solanaceous crops such as potato, eggplant, and tobacco. Here, we provide a timely review on the current distribution, damage, management, and research in China. A standard survey form was designed and 30 answered surveys from 25 provinces have been received. The data showed that the damage has been witnessed in most of the regions despite that the severities vary among the regions. The management is chemicalcontrol biased, and more efforts are needed to increase the adoption of non-chemical alternatives in the Integrated Pest Management packages. An Integrated Pest Management (IPM) package called "CAMEFA" was developed and demonstrated in Yunnan and Xinjiang, the two earliest regions for the invasion. Yet, the adoption by local growers is still limited. Besides T. absoluta, we suggest a multi-pest approach by combining IPM tactics coping with other major insect pests sharing the crop. Lastly, international projects are deemed to serve as key lever for promoting IPM of T. absoluta and other invasive insect pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven new pentasaccharides (1–7), rehmaglupentasaccharides A-G, were isolated from the air-dried roots of Rehmannia glutinosa. Their structures were established from the spectroscopic data obtained and by chemical evidence. The known verbascose (8) and stachyose (9) were also obtained in the current investigation, and the structure of stachyose was unequivocally defined using X-ray diffraction data. Compounds 1–9 were tested for their cytotoxicity against five human tumor cell lines, influence on dopamine receptor activation, and proliferation effects against Lactobacillus reuteri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Light-chain proximal tubulopathy (LCPT) is a rare disease characterized by the accumulation of monoclonal light chains within proximal tubular cells. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of LCPT from a single Chinese nephrology referral center. Methods: Patients with kidney biopsy-proven isolated LCPT between 2016 and 2022 at Peking University First Hospital were retrospectively included. Clinical data, kidney pathological type, treatment, and prognosis were analyzed. Results: Nineteen patients were enrolled, the mean age at diagnosis was 57±11 and the sex ratio was 6/13 (female/male). Mean proteinuria was 2.44±1.89g/24hr and the mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at the point of biopsy was 59.640±27.449ml/min/1.73 m². κ-restriction (84%) was dominant among LCPTs. An abnormal free light chain ratio was observed in 86% of the patients. Proximal tubulopathy with cytoplasmic inclusions accounted for the majority (53%), followed by tubulopathy associated with interstitial inflammation reaction (26%), proximal tubulopathy without cytoplasmic inclusions (16%), and proximal tubulopathy with lysosomal indigestion/constipation (5%). One patient presented with acute kidney injury and 16 patients presented with chronic kidney disease. Regarding follow-up, patients received bortezomib-based or R-CHOP chemotherapy or supportive treatment only. The mean follow-up time was 22±16months, and the mean eGFR was 63.098±27.439ml/min/1.73 m² at the end of follow-up. These patients showed improved or stable kidney function. Conclusions: This is the first case series report of LCPT in four different pathological types in northern China. Clone-targeted chemotherapy may help preserve the kidney function in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resource utilization of agricultural and forestry wastes is of great significance for low-carbon environmental protection and the transformation of China's energy structure. The way of the fuel utilization of agricultural and forestry wastes was introduced in this paper, and the molding process of biomass solid briquette was summarized. The research status of the factors affecting the briquetting quality and the binders used in the carbonization briquetting and other fields were also discussed. The development trend of the performance of biomass solid briquettes was prospected, and the existing problems of biomass solid briquettes were pointed out and suggestions for improvement were also put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Climate change profoundly shapes the population health at the global scale. However, there was still insufficient and inconsistent evidence for the association between heat exposure and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: In the present study, we studied the association of heat exposure with hospitalizations for cause-specific CKD using a national inpatient database in China during the study period of hot season from 2015 to 2018. Standard time-series regression models and random-effects meta-analysis were developed to estimate the city-specific and national averaged associations at a 7 lag-day span, respectively. Results: A total of 768,129 hospitalizations for CKD was recorded during the study period. The results showed that higher temperature was associated with elevated risk of hospitalizations for CKD, especially in sub-tropical cities. With a 1 °C increase in daily mean temperature, the cumulative relative risks (RR) over lag 0–7 d were 1.008 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.003–1.012] for nationwide. The attributable fraction of CKD hospitalizations due to high temperatures was 5.50%. Stronger associations were observed among younger patients and those with obstructive nephropathy. Our study also found that exposure to heatwaves was associated with added risk of hospitalizations for CKD compared to non-heatwave days (RR = 1.116, 95% CI 1.069–1.166) above the effect of daily mean temperature. Conclusions: Short-term heat exposure may increase the risk of hospitalization for CKD. Our findings provide insights into the health effects of climate change and suggest the necessity of guided protection strategies against the adverse effects of high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gastrointestinal microbiota, a complex ecosystem, is involved in the physiological activities of hosts and the development of diseases. Birds occupy a critical ecological niche in the ecosystem, performing a variety of ecological functions and possessing a complex gut microbiota composition. However, the gut microbiota of wild and captive birds has received less attention in the same region. We profiled the fecal gut microbiome of wild wintering whooper swans (Cygnus Cygnus; Cyg group, n = 25), captive black swans (Cygnus Atratus; Atr group, n = 20), and mute swans (Cygnus Olor; Olor group, n = 30) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to reveal differences in the gut microbial ecology. The results revealed that the three species of swans differed significantly in terms of the alpha and beta diversity of their gut microbiota, as measured by ACE, Chao1, Simpson and Shannon indices, principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) and non-metricmulti-dimensional scaling (NMDS) respectively. Based on the results of the linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) and random forest analysis, we found that there were substantial differences in the relative abundance of Gottschalkia, Trichococcus, Enterococcus, and Kurthia among the three groups. Furthermore, an advantageous pattern of interactions between microorganisms was shown by the association network analysis. Among these, Gottschalkia had the higher area under curve (AUC), which was 0.939 (CI = 0.879–0.999), indicating that it might be used as a biomarker to distinguish between wild and captive black swans. Additionally, PICRUSt2 predictions indicated significant differences in gut microbiota functions between wild and captive trumpeter swans, with the gut microbiota functions of Cyg group focusing on carbohydrate metabolism, membrane transport, cofactor, and vitamin metabolism pathways, the Atr group on lipid metabolism, and the Olor group on cell motility, amino acid metabolism, and replication and repair pathways. These findings showed that the gut microbiota of wild and captive swans differed, which is beneficial to understand the gut microecology of swans and to improve regional wildlife conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antagonistic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens HY2-1 was a marine microbiology that was isolated previously from the seabed silt of Beibu Gulf in China by dual culture with Penicillium digitatum. As a continuous study, the present work focused on evaluating the antimicrobial activity, identifying the produced active components, and revealing the fermentation characteristics of B. amyloliquefaciens HY2-1, respectively. It was found that B. amyloliquefaciens HY2-1 exhibited a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against the tested seven phytopathogenic fungi and five pathogenic bacteria by producing Bacillus lipopeptides such as fengycin A (C14 to C19 homologues) and surfactin (C14 and C15 homologues). Morphological observation of P. digitatum under light microscope, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscope inferred that B. amyloliquefaciens exerted the antagonistic activity by damaging the fungal cell membrane, thus inhibiting the mycelium growth and sporification of phytopathogenic fungi. As a marine microbiology, our results showed that B. amyloliquefaciens could survive and metabolize even at the culture condition with 110 g/L of NaCl concentration, and the produced antimicrobial compounds exhibited excellent thermostability and acid-alkali tolerance. The dynamic models were further constructed to theoretically analyze the fermentation process of B. amyloliquefaciens HY2-1, suggesting that the synthesis of antimicrobial compounds was coupled with both cell growth and cell biomass. In conclusion, the marine lipopeptides-producing B. amyloliquefaciens HY2-1 showed a promising prospect to be explored as a biocontrol agent for plant disease control of crops and postharvest preservation of fruits and vegetables, especially due to its outstanding stress resistance and the broad-spectrum and effective antagonist on various phytopathogenic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Crucian carp (Carassius auratus) is a freshwater fish that is popular due to its high nutritional value and delicious taste. It has become one of the most commonly farmed fish species, particularly in China. With the rapid development of intensive aquaculture, fish are becoming increasingly vulnerable to various pathogens that can cause significant economic losses. To reduce these losses, treatment with effective antibacterials is necessary. Although not approved in China, difloxacin is being used extensively in an extra-label manner to treat infections in aquaculture. However, the dosage guidelines specific to fish have not been established, resulting in the extrapolation of mammalian dosing regimens. Because fish are poikilotherms with unique physiologies and anatomies, dosing regimens intended for mammals may not be appropriate for them. In this research paper, we have employed a sparse sampling method and non-linear mixed effect modeling to develop population pharmacokinetics models. In addition, we have determined the values of the PK/PD parameter (free AUC/MIC) by utilizing previously published MIC data. Based on the free AUC/MIC values calculated herein, the current oral dose of difloxacin (20 mg/kg body weight) might be not enough to treat infections in crucian carp. This study aimed to investigate the population pharmacokinetics of difloxacin in crucian carp (Carassius auratus) orally provided a single dose of 20 mg/kg body weight (BW). To achieve this, fish were sampled at various intervals using a sparse sampling strategy, and plasma samples were analyzed using the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Subsequently, naïve average data were analyzed using a non-compartmental method, and a population model was developed based on the nonlinear mixed effects approach. The covariate of BW and the relationship between covariances were sequentially incorporated into the population model. However, it was found that only covariance and not BW affected the population parameters. Therefore, the covariance model was taken as the final population model, which revealed that the typical values of the absorption rate constant (tvKa), apparent volume of distribution per bioavailability (tvV), and clearance rate per bioavailability (tvCl) were 1.18 1/h, 14.18 L/kg, and 0.20 L/h/kg, respectively. Based on the calculated free AUC/MIC values, the current oral dose of difloxacin (20 mg/kg BW) cannot generate adequate plasma concentrations to inhibit pathogens with MIC values above 0.83 μg/mL. Further study should be carried out to collect the pathogens from crucian carp and determine the MIC data of difloxacin against them. Pharmacodynamic experiments must also be further carried out to determine the optimal therapeutic dose for the treatment of Aeromonas hydrophila infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores factors that influence problem-solving coping style across cultures. There was no significant difference in applying problem solving across U.S., Taiwanese, and Chinese samples. The effective predictors of problem solving in the U.S. and Chinese samples were self-efficacy and trait resilience, respectively. In the Taiwanese sample, predictors were self-efficacy and trait resilience. Trait resilience was found to mediate the effect of self-efficacy on problem solving in the Taiwanese and Chinese samples. Practical implications are discussed. (Contains 2 tables and 4 figures.)

Background: Extensive knowledge of allergic multimorbidities is required to improve the management of allergic diseases with the industrialization of China. However, the demography and allergen distribution patterns of allergic multimorbidities in China remain unclear, despite the increasing prevalence of allergies. Methods: This was a real-world, cross-sectional study of 1273 outpatients diagnosed with one or more allergic diseases in Guangzhou, the most populated city of southern China, with leading industrial and commercial centers, between April 2021 and March 2022. Seven allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis (AR), asthma (AS)/cough variant asthma (CVA), atopic dermatitis (AD)/eczema, food allergy (FA), allergic conjunctivitis (AC), drug allergy (DA), and anaphylaxis) were assessed. Positive rates of sensitization to different allergens were measured using an allergen detection system of the UniCAP (Pharmacia Diagnostics, Sweden) instrument platform to compare the groups of allergic multimorbidities against a single entity. Results: There were 659 (51.8%) males and 614 (48.2%) females aged from 4 months to 74 years included in the analysis. The study participants who were diagnosed with allergic diseases had an average of 1.6 diagnoses. Overall, 46.5% (592 of 1273) of the patients had more than one allergic condition, and allergic rhinitis was the most common type of multimorbidity. Women were more likely to suffer from an allergic disease alone, whereas allergic multimorbidities were more likely to be diagnosed in men (p = 0.005). In addition, allergic multimorbidities were common in all age groups, with an incidence ranging from 37.1% to 57.4%, in which children and adolescents were more frequently diagnosed with allergic multimorbidities than adults (18–60 years old) (all p < 0.05). Allergic multimorbidity was observed throughout the year. A difference in the positive rate of allergens sensitization and total immunoglobulin E (tIgE) levels between different allergic multimorbidities was observed. Conclusions: Allergic multimorbidities were very commonly found in nearly half of all patients with allergies. The proportion of allergic multimorbidities varied with the type of disease, sex, age, and allergen distribution pattern. These findings may help clinicians to develop "One health" strategies for the clinical management of allergic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonum capitatum, known as "Tou Hua Liao" (Chinese name), is a crucial source of Hmong medicinal plants that has benefited human health for a long time. This folk-medicinal plant is widely distributed in the south-west of China for the treatment of various urologic disorders including urinary tract infections, pyelonephritis, and urinary calculus. The purpose of this paper was to provide a systematic and comprehensive overview of the traditional usages, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and clinical applications of this flora. Up until the end of 2022, at least 91 compounds had been reported from P. capitatum, mainly covering the classes of flavonoids, lignanoids, phenols and other components. The compounds and extracts isolated from P. capitatum exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, analgesic, hypothermic, diuretic and other pharmacological effects. Qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses were also covered. Furthermore, the possible development trends and perspectives for future research on this medicinal plant were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Cyclocybe chaxingu is an edible and medicinal fungal species commonly cultivated in China. The major problems currently facing by growers of C. chaxingu is the random labeling of strains and strains aging and degeneration. Therefore, an evaluation of genetic diversity is essential for the conservation and reproducing programs of this species. Methods. In the present study, 24 widely cultivated strains were collected from the main producing areas of China, and the genetic diversity analysis was performed. DNApolymorphism among these Chinese C. chaxingu strains was analyzed using inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers. Results. Eight ISSR primers amplified a total of 75DNAfragments of which 61 (81.33%) were polymorphic. Fifteen SRAP primer combinations amplified 166 fragments of which 132 (79.52%) were polymorphic. Cluster analysis showed that the C. chaxnigu strains fall into five groups with a genetic distance values ranging from 0.06 to 0.60 by ISSR analysis, while the SRAP analysis divided the test strains into four groups within the range of genetic distance from 0.03 to 0.57. The results of the present study reveal a high level of genetic diversity among the widely cultivated C. chaxingu strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aedes albopictus is an indigenous primary vector of dengue and Zika viruses in China. Wolbachia is a gram-negative and common intracellular bacteria, which is maternally inherited endosymbionts and could expand their propagation in host populations by means of various manipulations. Compared with research on the dispersion of Ae. albopictus at the macrospatial level (mainly at the country or continent level), little is known about its variation and Wolbachia infection at the microspatial level, which is essential for its management. Meanwhile, no local cases of dengue fever have been recorded in the history of Nanjing, which implies that few adulticides have been applied in the city. Thus, the present study examines how the Ae. albopictus population varies and the Wolbachia infection status of each population among microspatial regions of Nanjing City. Methods: The genetic structure of 17 Aedes albopictus populations collected from urban, urban fringe, and rural regions of Nanjing City was investigated based on 9 microsatellite loci and the mitochondrial coxI gene. The Wolbachia infection status of each population was also assessed with Wolbachia A- and Wolbachia B-specific primers. Results: Nine out of 58 tested pairs of microsatellite markers were highly polymorphic, with a mean PIC value of 0.560, and these markers were therefore chosen for microsatellite genotyping analysis. The Na value of each Ae. albopictus population was very high, and the urban area populations (7.353 ± 4.975) showed a lower mean value than the urban fringe region populations (7.866 ± 5.010). A total of 19 coxI haplotypes were observed among 329 Ae. albopictus individuals via haplotype genotyping, with the highest diversity observed among the urban fringe Ae. albopictus populations (Hd = 0.456) and the lowest among the urban populations (Hd = 0.277). Each Ae. albopictus population showed significant departure from HWE, and significant population expansion was observed in only three populations from the urban (ZSL), urban fringe (HAJY), and rural areas (HSZY) (p < 0.05). Combined with DAPC analysis, all the Ae. albopictus populations were adequately allocated to two clades with significant genetic differences according to population structure analysis, and the best K value was equal to two. AMOVA results showed that most (96.18%) of the genetic variation detected in Ae. albopictus occurred within individuals (FIT = 0.22238, p < 0.0001), while no significant positive correlation was observed via isolation by distance (IBD) analysis (R2 = 0.03262, p = 0.584). The TCS network of all haplotypes showed that haplotype 1 (H1) and haplotype 4 (H4) were the most frequent haplotypes among all populations, and the haplotype frequency significantly increased from urban regions (36.84%) to rural regions (68.42%). Frequent migration was observed among Ae. albopictus populations from rural to urban regions via the urban fringe region, with four direct migration routes between rural and urban regions. Furthermore, Wolbachia genotyping results showed that most of the individuals of each population were coinfected with Wolbachia A and Wolbachia B. The independent infection rate of Wolbachia A was slightly higher than that of Wolbachia B, and no significant differences were observed among different regions. Conclusion: In the microspatial environment of Nanjing City, the urban fringe region is an important region for the dispersion of Ae. albopictus populations between rural and urban areas, and Wolbachia A and Wolbachia B coinfection is the most common Wolbachia infection status in all Ae. albopictus populations among different regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Although geriatric hip fracture is a serious public health problem in China, the result of orthogeriatric co‐management (OGC) is rarely reported. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of OGC in Chinese patients aged ≥65 years. Methods: In this single‐centre, pre‐post intervention, retrospective study, traditional orthopaedic care (TOC) was used until OGC was implemented in May 2015, a multidisciplinary team was organized, and clinical protocol was designed. Consecutive hip fracture patients who were ≥65 years and injured within 3 weeks were included in this study. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, fracture patterns, surgical procedure, time to surgery, length of hospital stay, inpatient complications, and in‐hospital mortality were extracted and examined. At 1‐year after surgery, data on patients' mobility and mortality were collected. The time to surgery, incidence of inpatient complications, mortality and functional outcomes were compared between the groups. Results: There were no significant differences in sex, fracture type, and surgical pattern between OGC (n = 434) and TOC (n = 452) groups. Patients in OGC group were significantly older (P < 0.001) and had a higher age‐adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (P < 0.001). However, waiting time between admission and operation was significantly lower in OGC group (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the mortality rate at the time of the patient being in‐hospital and at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. Although 1‐year mortality was higher in OGC group (P = 0.036), Cox regression analysis showed no significant correlation of OGC with 1‐year mortality. There was no significant difference in pre‐injury mobility and 1‐year follow‐up mobility assessed by Parker score. Only approximately half of the patients in both groups completely returned to their pre‐injury mobility level. Conclusion: OGC significantly shortens time to surgery for geriatric hip fractures compared with TOC. However, there is no significant effect on mortality rate within 1 year and functional status at 1 year of follow‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Left ventricular hypertrophy and impaired systolic and diastolic function are commonly seen in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), but relationships between the disorders and cardiovascular outcomes are not well established among the patients. Methods: Totally, 2020 patients with CKD Stages 1–4 were used in the analysis. Left ventricular hypertrophy was defined by left ventricular mass index >49.2 g/m2.7 in men and > 46.7 g/m2.7 in women. Incident heart failure, non‐heart failure cardiovascular events, and all‐cause mortality were recorded longitudinally. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to evaluate the association between the echo parameters and the outcomes, with death treated as the competing risk event for the cardiovascular events. Results: After a median follow‐up of 4.5 years, 53 heart failure, 76 non‐heart failure cardiovascular events and 82 deaths occurred. No overall association was found between left ventricular hypertrophy and subsequent heart failure, but the relationship was significant among patients with no diabetes with the multivariable adjusted hazard ratio of 3.66 (95% confidence interval: 1.42–9.46). Ejection fraction<55% was associated with both heart failure and non‐heart failure cardiovascular events with hazard ratios of 3.16 (1.28–7.77) and 2.76 (1.08–7.04), respectively. E/A ratio ≤ 0.75 was associated with non‐heart failure cardiovascular events [hazard ratio = 2.03 (1.09–3.80)], compared with E/A ratio of 0.76–1.49. Conclusion: Associations of reduced left ventricular ejection fraction with both heart failure and non‐heart failure cardiovascular events and of impaired left ventricular diastolic function with non‐heart failure cardiovascular events were validated in a Chinese cohort of CKD. SUMMARY AT A GLANCE: This is a multi‐centre cohort from China on the association of left ventricular hypertrophy and functional impairment with cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in CKD patients. Ejection fraction <55% was associated with both heart failure and non‐heart failure cardiovascular events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There is a limited evidence of durable effect of parathyroidectomy (PTX) on the quality of life (QoL) in dialysis populations. We aimed to investigate this concern by comparing the QoL scores in the pre- and post-PTX periods in a cohort of dialysis patients. Patients and Methods: A total of 212 dialysis patients were enrolled in a hospital-facilitated dialysis center in China between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2021. The mean age was 46.4 years; the male:female ratio was 96:116; hemodialysis 191, peritoneal dialysis 21. Informative data relating to demographics and dialysis were recorded for comparison. QoL was measured using the Chinese version of the Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36 (KDQOL-36™) and compared subscale scores between the pre-and post-PTX period. Appropriate statistical methods and Pearson's correlation test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Nutritional markers, including hemoglobin and albumin, significantly increased post-PTX than pre-PTX. KDQOL-36 domain scale scores, including Symptoms and Problems of Kidney Disease, Burden of Kidney Disease, Effects of Kidney Disease (EKD), Physical Component Summary (PCS) score, and Mental Component Summary score, significantly increased post-PTX than pre-PTX. All patients were further stratified into three groups based on the PTX duration— 0– 2 years, > 2–< 5 years, and ≥ 5 years—and all KDQOL-36 domain scale scores increased in individual PTX durations. The PTX duration showed a significant negative correlation between PCS subscale scores and a positive correlation between EKD subscale scores. Conclusion: PTX could improve QoL in dialysis patients with medically refractory secondary hyperparathyroidism. The durable effects should be studied using a larger sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study explores the level of stigma among Chinese nasopharyngeal carcinoma survivors, its influencing factors and relationship with self‐efficacy. Methods: In total, 281 nasopharyngeal carcinoma survivors were recruited from China, who completed the demographic, disease‐related and late toxicities questionnaire, as well as the General Self‐Efficacy Scale and Social Impact Scale. Results: The mean scores for stigma and self‐efficacy were 57.22 ± 9.58 and 28.06 ± 3.97, respectively, both showing a moderate level. The late toxicities with the highest incidence were xerostomia (91.8%), fatigue (78.3%) and hearing loss (63.0%). Stigma was significantly and negatively related to self‐efficacy (r = −0.295, P < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression showed that self‐efficacy, number of children, educational level, perceived support from spouse and other family members and some late toxicities (nasal obstruction and toothache) were influencing factors of stigma, accounting for 49.4% of the variance. Conclusion: Medical staff should be more aware of stigma among Chinese nasopharyngeal carcinoma survivors, especially those with more children and weaker educational backgrounds who are at a higher risk of stigma. They should take effective measures to alleviate stigma by improving patients' self‐efficacy, relieving late toxicities and encouraging spouses and family members to provide more support for them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the literature concerning Chinese student teachers, there is little research regarding the relationship between job satisfaction, professional identity, and burnout. In the current study, 267 student teachers (aged 20 to 25 years, female 58.8%) from Western China completed surveys assessing the student teachers' professional identity, job satisfaction, and burnout. Using structural equation models, results indicated that professional identity and job satisfaction could predict burnout, and the effect of professional identity on burnout was partially mediated by job satisfaction. Moreover, job satisfaction could significantly moderate the relationship between professional identity and burnout. These findings imply that professional identity and job satisfaction are critical indicators of burnout, and can be used in basic intervention strategies that decrease burnout among Western Chinese student teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditionally, residents in rural areas of Guanzhong Plain used to burn bulk coal for cooking and space heating, creating serious environmental challenges. With the stable development of rural economy in China, more and more rural residents have begun to adopt clean and green energy consumption mode, starting from suburban rural areas. Therefore, the energy consumption behaviors of residents in suburban rural areas exhibit the dual characteristics of urban and rural energy consumption. This study conducted an on-site survey of energy consumption behaviors of residents and their influencing factors in typical suburban rural areas in the Guanzhong Plain. A total of 554 valid questionnaires were obtained in this investigation, which were used to assess the behaviors and habits of local residents with respect to different energy consumption activities, such as cooking, space cooling/heating, laundry, etc. The results showed that the energy consumption behaviors of residents in investigated suburban rural areas were different from either traditional Chinese rural areas or typical Chinese urban areas, in terms of energy type and usage habits. The two most significant household characteristics affecting energy consumption behavior are income level and family structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The 1-year mortality rate after femoral intertrochanteric fracture is higher than that of femoral neck fracture, which also belongs to hip fracture (Cui et al. in Arch Osteoporos 14(1):55, 2019). With the application of the concept of co-management model of orthopedics and geriatrics, the short-term and long-term mortality of all types of hip fractures has decreased (Van Heghe et al. in Calcif Tissue Int, 2021, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00223-021-00913-5). However, the mortality of Chinese femoral intertrochanteric fracture patients under this model has not been reported in the literatures. Aim: This paper aims to study the risk factors of postoperative all-cause mortality in aged patients with femoral intertrochanteric fracture under the co-management model of orthopedics and geriatrics. Materials and methods: This is a single-center prospective cohort study based on the real world, under the co-management of orthopedics and geriatrics, 363 patients aged ≥ 65 years with femoral intertrochanteric fracture were enrolled and followed up for 2–3 years; 52 patients were lost to follow up. Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), history of comorbidities, hip Bone Mineral Density (BMD), fracture history, 25(OH)D level, hemoglobin level, anti-osteoporosis treatment were risk factors to be tested. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to analyze the impact of factors on all-cause mortality. Results: (1) Most of the dead patients were older (the mean age was 83.4 years, compared with 79.8 years for surviving patients), with more complications and without anti-osteoporosis medication; gender, pre-fracture history, BMI, total hip BMD, hemoglobin, 25(OH)D had no difference between the dead and the living patients. (2) Elderly patients with Intertrochanteric fracture can benefit from the early treatment of Zoledronic Acid (within 3 days after the operation). Conclusion: Under the co-management of orthopedics and geriatrics, to Chinese patients with Femoral Intertrochanteric fracture, Doctors should pay more attention to their age and chronic disease, and give anti-osteoporosis treatment if allowed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the demographic and clinicopathological features and renal outcomes of Chinese patients with C3 glomerulonephritis in the setting of monoclonal gammopathy. Patients with renal biopsy-proven C3 glomerulonephritis and detectable serum and/or urine monoclonal immunoglobulin from 2006 to 2018 in Peking University First Hospital were included, their clinical data, renal pathology type, treatment, and prognosis were collected and analyzed. Nineteen patients were enrolled, accounting for 24% of C3GN patients in the study period. The mean age of onset was 55 years old and the gender ratio was 4/15 (female/male). The mean eGFR at biopsy was 49.55 ± 29.81 ml/min/1.73m2. The prominent clinical manifestations included nephrotic syndrome (58%), anemia (68%), microscopic hematuria and leukocyturia (58%), and hypocomplementemia (13, 68%). The IgG was the most common isotype of monoclonal Ig on immunofixation electrophoresis. Kidney biopsies revealed a relatively prominent MPGN pattern. Only two patients had direct evidence of monocle immunoglobulins acting as C3GN pathogenic factors. Two patients had concurrent TMA-like renal injuries. The median renal survival was 12 and 15 months, respectively in patients receiving conservative therapy and immunosuppressant therapy, without statistical significance. The efficacy of clone-targeted therapy needed further investigation. Plasma exchange therapy only improved one patient's renal outcome. This is the first case series report of C3GN combined with monoclonal Ig in northern China. The renal prognosis of these patients is poor, and immunosuppressant therapies show no advantage over supportive therapy in renal prognosis, while the benefit of clone-targeted chemotherapy is still requiring investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The male of Psechrus jinggangensis Wang & Yin, 2001 is described for the first time based on many specimens from its type locality, Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve, Ji'an City, Jiangxi province, China. Detailed illustrations, SEM images, and distribution map are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To clarify the appropriate initial dosage of heparin during radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) receiving uninterrupted nonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) treatment.Methods: A total of 187 consecutive AF patients who underwent their first RFCA in our center were included. In the warfarin group (WG), an initial heparin dose of 100 U/kg was administered (control group: n = 38). The patients who were on NOACs were randomly divided into 3 NOAC groups (NG: n = 149), NG110, NG120, and NG130, and were administered initial heparin doses of 110 U/kg, 120 U/kg, and 130 U/kg, respectively. During RFCA, the activated clotting time (ACT) was measured every 15 min, and the target ACT was maintained at 250-350 s by intermittent heparin infusion. The baseline ACT and ACTs at each 15-min interval, the average percentage of measurements at the target ACT, and the incidence of periprocedural bleeding and thromboembolic complications were recorded and analyzed.Results: There was no significant difference in sex, age, weight, or baseline ACT among the four groups. The 15 min-ACT, 30 min-ACT, and 45 min-ACT were significantly longer in the WG than in NG110 and NG120. However, no significant difference in 60 min-ACT or 75 min-ACT was detected. The average percentages of measurements at the target ACT in NG120 (82.2 ± 23.6%) and NG130 (84.8 ± 23.7%) were remarkably higher than those in the WG (63.4 ± 36.2%, p = 0.007, 0.003, respectively). These differences were independent of the type of NOAC. The proportion of ACTs in 300-350 s in NG130 was higher than in WG (32.4 ± 31.8 vs. 34.7 ± 30.6, p = 0.735). Severe periprocedural thromboembolic and bleeding complications were not observed.Conclusions: For patients with AF receiving uninterrupted NOAC treatment who underwent RFCA, an initial heparin dosage of 120 U/kg or 130 U/kg can provide an adequate intraprocedural anticoagulant effect, and 130 U/kg allowed ACT to reach the target earlier.Trial Registration: Registration number: ChiCTR1800016491, First Registration Date: 04/06/2018 (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teacher self-efficacy plays an important role in special education; yet, the literature on the measurement of teacher self-efficacy in this field is limited. This study investigated the psychometric properties of the Teachers' Sense of Efficacy Scale with a sample of Chinese special education teachers (N = 401, 24.19% male). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the Chinese special educational version of the Teacher's Sense of Efficacy Scale (CS-TSES), modified from the Asian model by Ruan, J., Nie, Y., Hong, J., Monobe, G., Zheng, G., Kambara, H., & You, S. (2015). Cross-cultural validation of teachers' sense of efficacy scale in three Asian countries. Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment, 33 (8), 769-779, showed an excellent fit. Additionally, correlations were observed between the results of the CS-TSES and both the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and the Satisfaction with Life Scale, providing criterion-related validity. In sum, the findings indicated that the TSES is applicable to special education teachers in the Chinese context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Russula griseocarnosa is one of the uncultivable important mycorrhizal edible fungi. Currently, there is a limited insight into the dynamic composition of the microbial communities associated with Russula. Here, the microbiota in the root and mycorrhizosphere from Russula -Fagaceae nature areas of Fujian province were identified by Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing. First, we compared three types of fungal communities associated with Russula -Fagaceae root mycelia-running stage (stage-1), Russula sporocarping stage-2 (stage-2) and Russula -free Fagaceae root (stage-3). Fungal diversity negatively correlated with Russula. Russula , Tomentella and Lactarius were core EcM in Fagaceae roots. A total of eight genera, including Boletus , are likely a positive indicator of Russula sporocarp production in Russula -Fagaceae roots, while Tomentella and Elaphomyces for Russula symbiosis. Secondly, analysis of fungal and bacterial communities within rhizosphere soils from the three stages revealed six genera, including Dacryobolus and Acidocella , as possible indicator species associated with sporocarping in Russula. Elaphomyces , Tomentella, Sorangium , Acidicaldus , Acidobacterium and Haliangium occurred more frequently in the Russula rhizosphere. Furthermore, operational taxonomic unit (OTU) network analysis showed a positive correlation between Russula , Tomentella , Elaphomyces and Sorangium. Overall, our results revealed a relationship between micro-community and Russula , which may provide a new strategy for improving Russula symbiosis and sporocarp production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anemia is one of the common complications in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there is no systematic investigation on the prevalence of anemia in CKD patients and its relationship with the quality of life in China.Methods: The data for this study comes from baseline data from the Chinese Chronic Kidney Disease Cohort Study (C-STRIDE), which recruited predialysis CKD patients in China. The kidney disease quality of life summary (KDQOL-TM) was used to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Use linear regression model to estimate the relationship between hemoglobin level and quality of life.Results: A total of 2921 patients were included in this study. The adjusted prevalence of hemoglobin (Hb) less than 100 g/L was 10.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.9,11.4%), and showed an increased trend through reduced eGFR levels from 4.0% (95%CI:2.3,5.9%) in the 45-60 ml/min/1.73m2 group to 23.4% (95%CI:20.5,26.2%) in the 15-29 ml/min/1.73m2 group. The prevalence of anti-anemia treatment was 34.0% (95%CI: 28.7,39.3%) and it is shown by reducing eGFR levels from 15.8% (95%CI:0,36.7%) in the 45-60 ml/min/1.73m2 group to 38.2% (95%CI: 30.7,45.2%) in the 15-29 ml/min/1.73m2 group. All five dimensions of the KDQOL scores in patients with CKD decreased as hemoglobin declined. After multivariable adjustments,the degrees of decrease became somewhat blunted. For example, compared with hemoglobin of ≥130 g/L, regression coefficients in the hemoglobin of < 100 g/L were - 0.047(95%CI: - 0.049,-0.045) for Symptoms and Problems(S), - 0.047(95%CI: - 0.049,-0.044) for Effects of the Kidney Disease(E), - 0.207(95%CI: - 0.212,-0.203) for Burden of the Kidney Disease(B), - 0.112(95%CI: - 0.115,-0.109) for SF-12 Physical Functioning (PCS), - 0.295(95%CI: - 0.299, -0.292) for SF-12 Mental Functioning (MCS), respectively.Conclusions: In our cross-sectional analysis of patients with CKD in China, prevalence of both anemia and anti-anemia treatment increased with decreased eGFR. In addition, anemia was associated with reduced HRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Since the outbreak in late December 2019 in Wuhan, China, coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has become a global pandemic. We analyzed and compared the clinical, laboratory, and radiological characteristics between survivors and non-survivors and identify risk factors for mortality. Methods: Clinical and laboratory variables, radiological features, treatment approach, and complications were retrospectively collected in two centers of Hubei province, China. Cox regression analysis was conducted to identify the risk factors for mortality. Results: A total of 432 patients were enrolled, and the median patient age was 54 years. The overall mortality rate was 5.09% (22/432). As compared with the survivor group (n = 410), those in the non-survivor group (n = 22) were older, and they had a higher frequency of comorbidities and were more prone to suffer from dyspnea. Several abnormal laboratory variables indicated that acute cardiac injury, hepatic damage, and acute renal insufficiency were detected in the non-survivor group. Non-surviving patients also had a high computed tomography (CT) score and higher rate of consolidation. The most common complication causing death was acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (18/22, 81.8%). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that hemoglobin (Hb) <90 g/L (hazard ratio, 10.776; 95% confidence interval, 3.075–37.766; p<0.0001), creatine kinase (CK-MB) >8 U/L (9.155; 2.424–34.584; p = 0.001), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) >245 U/L (5.963; 2.029–17.529; p = 0.001), procalcitonin (PCT) >0.5 ng/ml (7.080; 1.671–29.992; p = 0.008), and CT score >10 (39.503; 12.430–125.539; p<0.0001) were independent risk factors for the mortality of COVID-19. Conclusions: Low Hb, high LDH, PCT, and CT score on admission were the predictors for mortality and could assist clinicians in early identification of poor prognosis among COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to culturally adapt the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy, Second Edition (CAPL-2) and examine its validity and reliability among Chinese children aged 8 to 12 years. The original manual of CAPL-2 was translated and culturally adapted from English into Chinese. A total of 327 children (153 boys, mean age = 10.0) completed CAPL-2 (Chinese) assessments. Internal consistency reliability and construct validity for subscales and total model was explored. Results reported a good fit after adjusting for covariation paths, chi-square (χ2 = 70.16, df = 43, p < 0.05), RMSEA = 0.04, 90% CI (0.024 – 0.062), CFI = 0.94, TLI = 0.90. Motivation and Confidence showed a good internal consistency (α = 0.82), compared to Knowledge and Understanding (α = 0.52). In general, there were few significant correlations between age and the subdomains as developmentally expected, and gender differences were observed with boys performing better than girls in total CAPL2 (Chinese) scores. This study was the first to cross-validate the CAPL-2 into the Chinese population. CAPL-2 (Chinese) offers the possibility of assessing physical literacy for researchers and practitioners and Chinese children's physical literacy development could be easily tracked in school settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety profile of traditional Chinese medicine injections has emerged as the greatest challenge to their clinical application. The authors aimed to perform a post-marketing surveillance study in a real-world setting to evaluate the safety of the Xuesaitong (XST) injection in China. This multi-centre, post-marketing, observational study enrolled patients who received XST injections in 42 centres in China between March 2015 and November 2017. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and adverse drug events (ADEs) were collected and evaluated in a post-marketing database. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyse the risk factors for ADRs. A total of 30,008 consecutive patients with a mean age of 62.29 ± 14.58 years were included in this post-marketing study. The incidences of ADEs and ADRs were 0.5% and 0.33%, respectively. The most common clinical manifestations were damage to skin and appendages (47.66%). There were four new kinds of ADEs found in the present monitoring study. The majority of ADRs were type B (62.62%) and occurred within 24 h after XST injection treatment. No severe ADRs were reported in this analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the hospital level (OR = 0.607; 95% CI = 0.407–0.906; p =.0144), hypertension (OR = 1.979; 95% CI, 1.323–2.959; p =.0009) and solvent type (OR = 2.951; 95% CI, 1.608–5.417; p =.0005) were risk factors for ADR occurrence. XST injection is well tolerated and has a favourable safety profile for patients in a real-world setting. This post-marketing study provided further evidence of the safety of XST injections for clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the associations of different crescents' fraction and clinical features in a Chinese lupus nephritis cohort based on the 2018 revision of ISN/RPS classification system. A total of 288 lupus nephritis patients with complete clinicopathological data and well follow-up was enrolled. The fraction of glomeruli with cellular or fibrocellular crescents based on the new system was reevaluated. The association between crescents fractions and the outcomes were further analyzed. The median follow-up period was 76.5 months. Cellular or fibrocellular crescents were present in 146 (50.7%) of the total individuals. The percentage of crescents were significantly associated with severe clinical renal injury indices and other renal pathological parameter. According to the survival receiver operating characteristic (survival ROC) curve, the optimal cutoff level of cellular or fibrocellular crescents for predicting the composite events was 7.39%. By multivariable Cox hazard analysis, the presence of crescents was predictive of survival from the composite events with a hazard ratio [HR] of 2.5 (95% CI 1.190–5.431; p =.02). Furthermore, when we used absent, present in less than 7.39% of glomeruli, and present in greater than or equal to 7.39% of glomeruli as cutoffs in all the patients, a gradation appeared, with adjusted HRs of 2.9 (95% CI 1.326–6.313; p =.008) for crescents in greater than or equal to 7.39% of glomeruli, in reference to no crescents. We proposed that the crescents were not uncommon and had important clinical significance in lupus nephritis. The cutoff point of crescents as prognosticator might be nearly 7.39%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a public health burden, and anemia is common among patients with CKD. However, less is known regarding the longitudinal association between anemia and deterioration of kidney function among the general population. The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study is a nationally representative survey for households with members aged ≥ 45 years. Participants without creatinine and demographic data in 2011 and 2015 were excluded. Anemia was defined according to definitions of the World Health Organization. Rapid decline in kidney function was defined as a ≥16.9% (quartile 3) decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), calculated using the CKD-EPI equation during 2011-2015. Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic splines were used to explore their relationship. Altogether, 7210 eligible participants were included in the analysis, with a mean age of 58.6 ± 8.8 years. Rapid decline in kidney function occurred among 1802 (25.0%) participants. Those with kidney function decline were more likely to be older, male, and have anemia, lower eGFRs, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease (P < 0.05). Anemia, or hemoglobin, was independently associated with rapid decline in kidney function after adjusting for potential confounding factors (OR = 1.64 , 95% CI, 1.32-2.04; OR = 0.90 , 95% CI, 0.87-0.94, respectively). Restricted cubic splines showed a nonlinear relationship between hemoglobin and rapid decline in kidney function, especially for men with anemia (P < 0.05). In conclusion, anemia is an independent risk factor for progression of kidney function among the middle-aged and elderly population. Attentive management and intervention strategies targeting anemia could be effective to reduce the risk of kidney failure and improve the prognosis of the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature on tools of attitudes towards ASD was limited. This study is the first to examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of the multidimensional attitudes scale toward persons with disabilities (MAS) in a sample of Chinese college students (N = 1002, 32.10% males). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the G-MAS-R model's 4-factor structure: calm, negative affect, positive cognitions and behavioral avoidance. The results suggest that the Chinese version of the MAS has satisfactory internal consistency. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the MAS scores were significantly correlated with the Social Distance Scale and Autism Stigma and Knowledge Questionnaire scores. Overall, the findings indicate that the MAS is appropriate for assessing attitudes toward people with ASD in a Chinese context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oomyzus spiraculus Song, Fei & Cao sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) is described and illustrated as a gregarious larval-pupal endoparasitoid of Coccinella septempunctata L. (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae). Differentiation between O. spiraculus and its similar species is discussed and a key to differentiate the female and male of these species is provided. DNA barcodes of O. spiraculus and O. scaposus are analyzed and compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Gibberellic acid (GA3), a plant‐growth regulator, is often used to obtain enlarged table grape berries and induce seedlessness in them. However, the effects of GA3 on rachis elongation and bunch compactness have seldom been reported in wine‐grape production. We assessed the effects of GA3 spraying on wine‐grape inflorescences and bunches and their practical implications for viticulture in the Jiaodong Peninsula, China. RESULTS: Various GA3 concentrations were sprayed on field‐grown Vitis vinifera L. 'Cabernet Franc' (CF) and 'Cabernet Sauvignon' (CS) grapevines before anthesis in the Jiaodong Peninsula, China, in 2015 and 2016. Inflorescence length during berry development was measured, and flavonoids and aroma compounds in the fruit were detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS) and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC‐MS), respectively. For both cultivars, 50 and 100 mg L−1 GA3 caused significant elongation of the rachis, whereas there was no significant effect on inflorescence growth and berry seed number. Anthocyanin, flavonol, and flavan‐3‐ol levels in mature berries were not significantly influenced by GA3 spraying, whereas C13‐norisoprenoids were modified. CONCLUSION: The application of 50‐100 mg L−1 GA3 prior to grapevine anthesis caused elongation of inflorescences and bunches, and eased cluster compactness in CF and CS, and no negative effects were observed on the yield and seed numbers. The concentration and composition of flavonoids and most aroma compounds were not influenced, except that the norisoprenoids were increased by 50 mg L−1 GA3 applications. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leukocyte chemotactic factor 2 (ALECT2) amyloidosis is one of the recently described types of amyloidosis. In this study, we reported the first large case series of renal ALECT2 amyloidosis in Chinese patients. Methods: We studied the prevalence, clinical characteristics, renal pathology, outcome and genetic features among seven patients diagnosed with renal ALECT2 amyloidosis at Peking University First Hospital of China from 2000 to 2018. Results: Seven patients were diagnosed with ALECT2 amyloidosis, representing 1.9% of the renal biopsy-proven amyloidosis cases. The mean age at diagnosis was 68 years without gender preference. The patients mainly manifested with varying impaired kidney function with a mean estimated glomerular filtration rate of 42.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 (range 8.0–80.5) and proteinuria at 3.9 g/24 h (range 0.4–11.3). There were four ALECT2 amyloidosis patients with concurrent membranous nephropathy (MN), who presented a higher proteinuria (6.4 ± 4.0 g/24 h vs. 2.0 ± 1.8 g/24 h) and higher frequency of nephrotic syndrome (50% vs. 0) than patients with isolated ALECT2 amyloidosis. Renal biopsy showed strongly congophilic amyloid deposits distributed mainly in the renal cortical interstitium, as well as the glomerular mesangium, the inner layer of glomerular basement membrane (GBM), and vascular walls. Two patients with concurrent ALECT2 amyloidosis and MN showed mild amyloid deposits, which have not been identified as ALECT2 amyloidosis by IHC and LMD/MS methods. All patients were corroborated by immunoelectron microscopy to exhibit the specific location of LECT2 in the amyloid fibrils. Genetic analysis revealed no mutations but homozygosity for the G allele encoding valine at position 40 in the mature protein in all patients. Except for one patient who died 8 years later after he was diagnosed with ALECT2 amyloidosis, the others presented with relatively stable renal function during the mean follow-up period of 12.5 months. Conclusions: ALECT2 amyloidosis was the third most common type of renal amyloidosis in Chinese patients from a single centre. The majority of ALECT2 amyloidosis patients were of Han ethnicity, with a high rate of concurrent MN. The recognition and accurate diagnosis of renal ALECT2 amyloidosis should be considered in Chinese patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a common inflammatory rheumatic disease that affects the axial skeleton. In this study, we systematically reviewed Chinese AS epidemiological studies from the past 15 years to elucidate its prevalence and provide scientific data for China's health care system. AS epidemiological research in China was summarized by conducting a literature review. A review and statistical analysis of the literature on the epidemiology of AS in mainland China published from May 2005 to May 2019 were performed via a meta-analysis. We calculated the prevalence of AS and analysed differences by sex, region, and population source using STATA12.0 software. Eleven papers including 122,558 subjects from mainland China were included. Over the past 15 years, the total prevalence of AS in mainland China was 0.29% (95% CI 0.22–0.35%), ranging from 0.42% (95% CI 0.31–0.52%) in males to 0.15% (95% CI 0.13–0.18%) in females; the difference in the prevalence of AS by sex was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The prevalence of AS in both southern and northern China was 0.31% (95% CI 0.21–0.42% and 0.21–0.40%, respectively), with no significant difference noted (P = 0.816 > 0.005). The prevalence of AS in Chinese military populations was 0.27% (95% CI 0.09–0.45%), and in community populations, it was 0.29% (95% CI 0.23–0.35%). There was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of AS by sampling resource (P = 0.115 > 0.005). The prevalence of AS in China was 0.29% and continues to increase. Sex differences in its prevalence were identified; the prevalence rate was 2.8 times higher in males than in females. Epidemiologists in China should formulate precise scientific investigations to provide additional authoritative epidemiological data for the prevention and treatment of AS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To analysis the pathological spectrum and prognosis of monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS) patients. Methods: Patients with renal biopsy‐proven MGRS from 1999 to 2017 in Peking University First Hospital were included, clinical data, renal pathology type, treatment and prognosis were collected. Results: One hundred and eighty‐seven patients were enrolled, accounting for 0.7% of renal biopsies. Seventy‐seven per cent of the MGRS patients were amyloidosis. Eighteen patients (9.6%) were monoclonal immunoglobulin deposition disease. Others included 10 patients (5.3%) with proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immunoglobulin (G) deposits, seven patients (3.7%) with cryoglobulinaemic glomerulonephritis, five patients (2.6%) with light chain proximal tubulopathy, two patients (1.1%) with fibrillary disease and one patient (0.5%) with C3 glomerulonephritis. Sixty‐three per cent were treated with chemotherapy and/or stem cell transplantation. The mean follow‐up time was 27 ± 32 months. One patient developed multiple myeloma at 17‐month during follow‐up. At the end of follow‐up, 61 patients (33%) died, and 47 patients (25%) reached end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). For the 144 amyloid patients, low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), decreased blood pressure, presence of cardiac involvement and absence of chemotherapy or high‐dose melphalan/autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation were identified as independent risk factors for death. Low eGFR, decreased blood pressure, and presence of cardiac involvement were identified as independent risk factors for ESRD. For the 43 non‐amyloid patients, no factor was identified for the risk of death. Low eGFR was identified as independent risk factor for ESRD. Conclusion: MGRS was an uncommon form of hematologic disorder related renal injury with a wide spectrum of pathologic lesions, and amyloidosis was the most common type. Treatment with chemotherapy and/or high‐dose melphalan/autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation improved amyloid patients' survival. SUMMARY AT A GLANCE: MGRS is an uncommon form of hematologic disorder‐related renal injury. This is a large retrospective MGRS study in China, showing that amyloidosis is the most common form of MGRS and that treatment with chemotherapy and/or high dose melphalan/autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation improved patients' survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Primary care may be an avenue to increase coverage of HIV testing but it is unclear what challenges primary healthcare professionals in low- and middle-income countries face. We describe the HIV testing practices in community health centres (CHCs) and explore the staff's attitude towards further development of HIV testing services at the primary care level in China.Methods: We conducted a national, cross-sectional survey using a stratified random sample of CHCs in 20 cities in 2015. Questionnaires were completed by primary care doctors and nurses in CHCs, and included questions regarding their demographics, clinical experience and their views on the facilitators and barriers to offering HIV testing in their CHC. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to examine the association between staff who would offer HIV testing and their sociodemographic characteristics.Results: A total of 3580 staff from 158 CHCs participated. Despite the majority (81%) agreeing that HIV testing was an important part of healthcare, only 25% would provide HIV testing when requested by a patient. The majority (71%) were concerned about reimbursement, and half (47%) cited lack of training as a major barrier. Almost half (44%) believed that treating people belonging to high-risk populations would scare other patients away, and 6% openly expressed their dislike of people belonging to high-risk populations. Staff who would offer HIV testing were younger (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.97 per year increase in age, 95% confidence interval (CI):0.97-0.98); trained as a doctor compared to a nurse (aOR 1.79, 95%CI:1.46-2.15); held a bachelor degree or above (aOR 1.34, 95%CI:1.11-1.62); and had previous HIV training (aOR 1.55, 95%CI:1.27-1.89).Conclusions: Improving HIV training of CHC staff, including addressing stigmatizing attitudes, and improving financial reimbursement may help increase HIV testing coverage in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mencius, a prominent Confucian philosopher in the Warring States period (c. 453 BC–221 BC) of ancient China, is well-known for his argumentative skills, including his refutational skills used to maintain his own standpoints. This paper attempts to reveal how Mencius refuted his opponents argumentatively and strategically on the issue of human nature. To this end, the pragma-dialectical approach to argumentation is adopted to first reconstruct Mencius's argumentative discourse on human nature according to the four stages in critical discussion—the confrontation, opening, argumentation and concluding stages. Under the ancient Chinese historical and cultural context, Mencius's argumentative discourse about human nature was developed in three critical discussions, between Mencius the protagonist, and his explicit interlocutors and implicit adversaries who held different views on human nature—the antagonists. The discussions were undertaken around three single mixed differences of opinion concerning three propositions, with resolution of the first difference of opinion serving as a starting point of the second, and the resolution of the second as a starting point of the third. Then based on the reconstruction, the paper elaborates the refutational strategies that Mencius employed in various stages, such as dissociation, reductio ad absurdum based on refutational analogy, and conciliation. It further points out that the employment of these strategies is strategic maneuvering undertaken by Mencius in an attempt to realize both dialectical and rhetorical aims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although a high incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is observed among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients in developed countries, limited information is available about CVD prevalence and risk factors in the Chinese CKD population. The Chinese Cohort of Chronic Kidney Disease (C-STRIDE) was established to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of CVD among Chinese CKD patients.Methods: Participants with stage 1-4 CKD (18-74 years of age) were recruited at 39 clinical centers located in 28 cities from 22 provinces of China. At entry, the socio-demographic status, medical history, anthropometric measurements and lifestyle behaviors were documented, and blood and urine samples were collected. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated by the CKD-EPI creatinine equation. CVD diagnosis was based on patient self-report and review of medical records by trained staff. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to estimate the association between risk factors and CVD.Results: Three thousand four hundred fifty-nine Chinese patients with pre-stage 5 CKD were enrolled, and 3168 finished all required examinations and were included in the study. In total, 40.8% of the cohort was female, with a mean age of 48.21 ± 13.70 years. The prevalence of CVD was 9.8%, and in 69.1% of the CVD cases cerebrovascular disease was observed. Multivariable analysis showed that increasing age, lower eGFR, presence of hypertension, abdominal aorta calcification and diabetes were associated with comorbid CVD among CKD patients. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for these risk factors were 3.78 (2.55-5.59) for age 45-64 years and 6.07 (3.89-9.47) for age ≥65 years compared with age <45 years; 2.07 (1.28-3.34) for CKD stage 3a, 1.66 (1.00-2.62) for stage 3b, and 2.74 (1.72-4.36) for stage 4 compared with stages 1 and 2; 2.57 (1.50-4.41) for hypertension, 1.82 (1.23-2.70) for abdominal aorta calcification, and 1.70 (1.30-2.23) for diabetes, respectively.Conclusions: We reported the CVD prevalence among a CKD patient cohort and found age, hypertension, diabetes, abdominal aorta calcification and lower eGFR were independently associated with higher CVD prevalence. Prospective follow-up and longitudinal evaluations of CVD risk among CKD patients are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]