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Background: Thymus mandschuricus is an aromatic and medicinal plant with notable antibacterial and antioxidant properties. However, traditional breeding methods rely on phenotypic selection due to a lack of molecular resources. A high-quality reference genome is crucial for marker-assisted breeding, genome editing, and molecular genetics. Results: We utilized PacBio and Hi-C technologies to generate a high-quality chromosome-level reference genome for T. mandschuricus, with a size of 587.05 Mb and an N50 contig size of 8.41 Mb. The assembled genome contained 29,343 predicted protein-coding genes, and evidence of two distinct whole-genome duplications in T. mandschuricus was discovered. Comparative genomic analysis revealed rapid evolution of genes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and the CYP450 gene family in T. mandschuricus. Additionally, we reconstructed the gene families of terpenoid biosynthesis structural genes, such as TPS, BAHD, and CYP, and identified regulatory networks controlling the expression of aroma-synthesis genes by integrating transcriptome data from various organs and developmental stages. We discovered that hormones and transcription factors may collaborate in controlling aroma-synthesis gene expression. Conclusion: This study provides the first high-quality genome sequence and gene annotation for T. mandschuricus, an indigenous thyme species unique to China. The genome assembly and the comprehension of the genetic basis of fragrance synthesis acquired from this research could potentially serve as targets for future breeding programs and functional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is an invasive alien species that causes major losses in the Chinese tomato industry. Historically, insecticides have been used extensively to control T. absoluta, but resistant populations have been frequently detected. Biological control represents a sustainable and effective method with which to prevent and control T. absoluta. Egg parasitoids from the family of Trichogrammatidae (Hymenoptera) have been identified as potential biological option for controlling of T. absoluta. In the present study, we aimed to identify local dominant Trichogramma species that exhibited the best biological control ability against T. absoluta in China. To accomplish this, we compared the selectivity and number of offspring of three Trichogramma species to T. absoluta by performing host preference experiments in the laboratory. We also evaluated the fitness of Trichogramma against T. absoluta by assessing the parasitic ability and behavior of their offspring on different hosts. Compared with Trichogramma chilonis and Trichogramma dendrolimi, Trichogramma ostriniae exhibited a significantly greater preference to T. absoluta eggs and produced a higher number of offspring. The emergence rate and proportion of female T. ostriniae parasitizing the eggs of T. absoluta was higher than that of the other two Trichogramma species, the rate of T. ostriniae offspring deformity was only 3.00%. In addition, T. ostriniae has shortest immature stage and the longest adult stage among the three species. In conclusion T. ostriniae can be a promising native biological control agent against T. absoluta in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiota promotes host health by maintaining homeostasis and enhancing digestive efficiency. The gut microflora in wild birds affects host physiological characteristics, nutritional status, and stress response. The relict gull (Larus Relictus, a Chinese national first-class protected species) and the black-necked grebe (Podiceps Nigricollis, a secondary protected species) bred in the Ordos Relic Gull National Nature Reserve share similar feeding habits and living environments but are distantly related genetically. To explore the composition and differences in the gut microbiota of these two key protected avian species in Erdos Relic Gull National Nature Reserve and provide a basis for their protection, 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing was performed and the gut microbial diversity and composition of the relict gull (L. Relictus) and black-necked grebe (P. Nigricollis) was characterized. In total, 445 OTUs (operational taxonomic units) were identified and classified into 15 phyla, 22 classes, 64 orders, 126 families, and 249 genera. Alpha diversity analysis indicates that the gut microbial richness of the relict gull is significantly lower than that of the black-necked grebe. Gut microbe composition differs significantly between the two species. The most abundant bacterial phyla in these samples were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. The prominent phylum in the relict gull was Proteobacteria, whereas the prominent phylum in the black-necked grebe was Firmicutes. The average relative abundance of the 17 genera identified was greater than 1%. The dominant genus in the relict gull was Escherichia-Shigella, whereas Halomonas was dominant in the black-necked grebe. Microbial functional analyses indicate that environmental factors exert a greater impact on relict gulls than on black-necked grebes. Compared with the relict gull, the black-necked grebe was able to use food more efficiently to accumulate its nutrient requirements, and the gut of the relict gull harbored more pathogenic bacteria, which may be one reason for the decline in the relict gull population, rendering it an endangered species. This analysis of the gut microbial composition of these two wild avian species in the same breeding grounds is of great significance, offers important guidance for the protection of these two birds, especially relict gulls, and provides a basis for understanding the propagation of related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining response patterns of plant leaf elements to environmental variables would be beneficial in understanding plant adaptive strategies and in predicting ecosystembiogeochemistry processes. Despite the vital role of microelements in life chemistry and ecosystem functioning, little is known about how plant microelement concentrations, especially their bioconcentration factors (BCFs, the ratio of plant to soil concentration of elements), respond to large-scale environmental gradients, such as aridity, soil properties and anthropogenic activities, in drylands. The aim of the present study was to fill this important gap. We determined leaf microelement BCFs by measuring the concentrations of Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu and Zn in soils from 33 sites and leaves of 111 plants from 67 species across the drylands of China. Leaf microelement concentrations were maintained within normal ranges to satisfy the basic requirements of plants, even in nutrient-poor soil. Aridity, soil organic carbon (SOC) and electrical conductivity (EC) had positive effects, while soil pH had a negative effect on leaf microelement concentrations. Except for Fe, aridity affected leaf microelement BCFs negatively and indirectly by increasing soil pH and SOC. Anthropogenic activities and soil clay contents had relatively weak impacts on both leaf microelement concentrations and BCFs. Moreover, leaf microelement concentrations and BCFs shifted with thresholds at 0.89 for aridity and 7.9 and 8.9 for soil pH. Woody plants were positive indicator species and herbaceous plants were mainly negative indicator species of leaf microelement concentrations and BCFs for aridity and soil pH. Our results suggest that increased aridity limits the absorption of microelements by plant leaves and enhances leaf microelement concentrations. The identification of indicator species for the response of plant microelements to aridity and key soil characteristics revealed that woody species in drylands were more tolerant to environmental changes than herbaceous species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wetland conversion to cropland substantially suppresses methane (CH4) emissions due to the strong suppression of methanogenesis, which consists of various pathways. In this study, we evaluated the cultivation impacts on four predominant CH4 production pathways, including acetate, carbon dioxide (CO2), methylamines, and methanol, in a wetland and cultivated cropland in northeastern China. The results showed significant suppression of CH4 production potential and the abundance of genes for all four methanogenic pathways in cropland. The consistency between CH4 production and methanogenesis genes indicates the robustness of genomic genes in analyzing methanogenesis. The suppression effects varied across seasons and along soil profiles, most evident in spring and 0 to 30cm layers. The acetate pathway accounted for 55% in wetland vs. 70% in the cropland of all functional genes for CH4 production; while the other three pathways were stronger in response to cultivation, which presented as stronger suppressions in both abundance of functional genes (declines are 52% of CO2 pathway, 68% of methanol pathway, and 62% of methylamines pathway, vs. 19% of acetate pathway) and their percentages in four pathways (from 20 to 15% for CO2, 15 to 9% for methylamines, and 10 to 6% for methanol pathway vs. 55 to 70% for acetate pathway). The structural equation models showed that substrate availability was most correlated with CH4 production potential in the wetland, while the positive correlations of acetate, CO2, and methylamine pathways with CH4 production potential were significant in the cropland. The quantitative responses of four CH4 production pathways to land conversion reported in this study provide benchmark information for validating the CH4 model in simulating CH4 cycling under land use and land cover change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the cost-effectiveness of nebulized budesonide and intravenous methylprednisolone in the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) in a real-world setting. Materials and methods: Data from 291 patients with AECOPD were collected from the information system of a tertiary hospital in China. Patients were categorized into two groups: those treated with nebulized budesonide (n = 148) and those treated with intravenous methylprednisolone (n = 143). Clinical efficacy and the rate of no readmission within 1 year after discharge were used as effect indicators, and a cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system. Logistic regression, generalized linear regression, and bootstrap methods were used for sensitivity analyses. Results: There was no statistical difference between the budesonide and methylprednisolone groups in clinical efficacy rates (94.6% vs. 93.7%). The cost-minimization analysis shows that budesonide is not cost-effective owing to higher total cost. In terms of readmission rates, budesonide was again not cost-effective, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 22276.62 CNY, which is higher than the willingness to pay (WTP) of 20206.20 CNY, the mean per admission expenditure in China. The sensitivity analyses confirm that these results are robust. Conclusion: Compared with intravenous methylprednisolone, nebulized budesonide is not a cost-effective strategy for AECOPD patients in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Urinary stone disease (USD) has been associated with an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease in Western populations. However, the metabolic disorders associated with unilateral and bilateral renal stones and the association of these types of stones with CKD and kidney tubular injury markers, such as urine N-acetyl-ß-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) and alpha-1-microglobulin (a1-MG), have not been fully examined. Materials and Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study of 10,281 participants in rural China in 2014. All the subjects underwent renal ultrasound to detect USD; stone formers were divided into groups with unilateral or bilateral renal stones by ultrasound examinations. CKD was defined as a decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, <60 mL/minute/1.73 m2 ) and/or albuminuria (albumin-to-creatinine ratio (30 mg/gm). Increased urine NAG and a1-MG levels were defined as their values above the 75th percentile of the sample distribution. Results: Among all the participants, 4.9% (507) had unilateral renal stones, and 0.7% (75) had bilateral renal stones. The proportion of CKD in the nonstone, unilateral and bilateral renal stone formers was 11.0%, 19.2% and 29.7%, respectively (p for trend <0.001). Individuals with bilateral renal stones had the highest proportion of metabolic components, such as elevated blood pressure and serum glucose. In multivariate analyses after adjustment for multiple confounders, bilateral renal stones were significantly associated with an increased risk of decreased eGFR (OR 3.38; 95% CI 1.05e10.90), albuminuria (OR 3.01; 95% CI 1.76e5.13), CKD (OR 3.18; 95% CI 1.88e5.36), increased urine NAG-tocreatinine ratio (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.21e3.16) and a1-MG-to-creatinine ratio levels (OR 2.54; 95% CI 1.56e4.12) compared with the lack of stones. Conclusions: Bilateral renal stones were associated with a higher risk of CKD and higher levels of kidney tubular injury markers. Clinicians should pay attention to metabolic disorders in bilateral renal stone formers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study aims to understand the possible gender difference in the associations between physical activity and depressive symptoms during pubertal transition. Methods: Participants were 30,399 children and adolescents of Han ethnicity from urban and rural areas in 8 cities in China. Physical activity (PA) and depressive symptom was assessed by adapted Youth Risk Behavior Survey and Children Depression Inventory (CDI), respectively. Pubertal development was assessed by trained physicians. Results: In China, over 30% boys and 40% girls reported having no vigorous PA (VPA) or moderate PA (MPA) in the past week. In girls, participating in VPA 1 to 2 days/week showed protective effect for depressive symptoms; whereas in boys, participating in MPA 1 to 2 days/week showed protective effect for depressive symptoms at and after genital stage III (G3). Conclusions: Moderate frequency (1 to 2 days/week) in PA undertaken might be encouraged to prevent depressive symptoms among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The incidence, risk factors and survival impact of secondary primary malignancies (SPMs) among survivors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treated with definitive intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with or without chemotherapy are poorly characterized. Methods and Materials Consecutive patients (n=6,377) from the big-data intelligence platform at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, China (in a high-incidence area) with newly diagnosed non-metastatic pathologically proven non-keratinizing undifferentiated NPC treated with IMRT±chemotherapy between January 2003 and June 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. Cumulative incidence of SPMs was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify potential risk factors for SPMs and assess whether SPMs affect overall survival. Results Of the 6,377 patients, 189 (3.0%) suffered SPMs (median follow-up, 62 months). One-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-cumulative risks of SPMs were 0.4%, 0.9%, 1.6%, 2.2%, and 2.6%, respectively. Latency from start of IMRT to SPMs diagnosis was 37 months (range, 6 to 102 months). In patients with SPMs, 14.3% suffered SPMs within 1 year post-IMRT: 1-3 years, 38.1%; 3-5 years, 33.9%; and >5 years, 13.7%. Lung cancer was the most common SPM (50/6,377, 0.78%). Multivariate analysis demonstrated sex (male, 64% increase), age (≥50 years, 68% increase), and smoking history (41% increase) were significant risk factors for SPMs, and SPMs were associated with poorer overall survival. Conclusion This large cohort study confirms SPMs a dreadful complication for long-term survivors of NPC treated with IMRT. SPMs negatively impact overall survival in NPC. Close follow-up is recommended for older male survivors with a smoking history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of pseudorabies (PR) in many Bartha-K61 vaccinated farms in China in late 2011 has seriously damaged the pig industry of one of the largest producers of pork products in the world. To understand the epidemiological characteristics of the pseudorabies virus (PRV) strains currently prevalent in China, a total of 16,256 samples collected from pig farms suspected of PRV infection in 27 Provinces of China between 2012 and 2017 were evaluated for detection of PRV. Since the extensive use of gE-deleted PRV vaccine in China, the PRV-gE was applied for determining wild-type virus infection by PCR. Of the 16,256 samples detected, approximately 1,345 samples were positive for the detection of PRV-gE, yielding an average positive rate of 8.27%. The positive rates of PRV detection from 2012 to 2017 were 11.92% (153/1284), 12.19% (225/1846), 6.70% (169/2523), 11.10% (269/2424), 5.57% (147/2640), and 6.90% (382/5539), respectively. To understand the genetic characteristics of the PRV strains currently circulating, 25 PRV strains isolated from those PRV-gE positive samples were selected for further investigation. Phylogenetic analysis based on gB, gC, and gE showed that PRV strains prevalent in China had a remarkably distinct evolutionary relationship with PRVs from other countries, which might explain the observation that Bartha-K61 vaccine was unable to provide full protection against emergent strains. Sequence alignments identified many amino acid changes within the gB, gC, and gE proteins of the PRVs circulating in China after the outbreak compared to those from other countries or those prevalent in China before the outbreak; those changes also might affect the protective efficacy of previously used vaccines in China, as well as being associated in part with the increased virulence of the current PRV epidemic strains in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the human influence on the extreme summer temperature events in western China on June 12 to August 10, 2015. The study used the optimal fingerprinting method for the analysis of daily maximum (TXx), and daily minimum (TNx) temperatures. Results show the increase in the probability of the event due to the anthropogenic forcing (ANT) and combination of natural variability of the climate system and human emission of greenhouse gases.

The article presents a study on the extreme precipitation or rainfall during the prerainy season in Southeast China on May 2015 which causes severe flooding. The study assessed the rainfall patterns and variability in the flood-affected area in China through time series. The researchers concluded that the probability of short and intense rainfall was factored by the anthropogenically forced climate change.

Background: Policy makers require information regarding performance of different primary care delivery models in managing hypertension, which can be helpful for better hypertension management. This study aims to compare continuity of care among hypertensive patients between Direct Management (DM) Model of community health centers (CHCs) in Wuhan and Loose Collaboration (LC) Model in Nanjing. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted. Four CHCs in each city were randomly selected as study settings. 386 patients in Nanjing and 396 in Wuhan completed face-to-face interview surveys and were included in the final analysis. The relational continuity and coordination continuity (including both information continuity and management continuity) were measured and analyzed. Binary or multinomial logistic regression models were used for comparison between the two cities. Results: Participants from Nanjing had better relational continuity with primary care providers as compared with those from Wuhan, including more likely to be familiar with a CHC physician (OR = 2.762; 95%CI: 1.878 to 4.061), taken care of by the same CHC physician (OR = 1.846; 95%CI: 1.262 to 2.700), and known well by a CHC physician (OR = 1.762; 95%CI: 1.206 to 2.572). Multinomial logistic regression analyses showed there were significant differences between the two cities in reported frequency of communications between hospital and CHC physicians (P = 0.001), whether hospital and CHC physicians gave same treatment suggestions (P = 0.016), as well as how treatment strategy was formulated (P < 0.001). Participants in Wuhan were less likely than those in Nanjing to consider there was continuum regarding health services provided by hospital and CHC physicians (OR = 3.932; 95%CI: 2.394 to 6.459). Conclusions: Our study shows that continuity of care is better for LC Model in Nanjing than DM Model in Wuhan. Our study suggests there is room for improvement regarding relational and information continuity in both cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implementing effective interventions remain a lot of difficulties along all border regions. The emergence of artemisinin resistance of Plasmodium falciparum strains in the Greater Mekong Subregion is a matter of great concern. China has effectively controlled cross-border transmission of malaria and artemisinin resistance of P. falciparum along the China-Myanmar border. Methods: A combined quantitative and qualitative study was used to collect data, and then an integrated impact evaluation was conducted to malaria control along the China-Myanmar border during 2007-2013. Results: The parasite prevalence rate (PPR) in the five special regions of Myanmar was decreased from 13.6 % in March 2008 to 1.5 % in November 2013. Compared with the baseline (PPR in March 2008), the risk ratio was only 0.11 [95 % confidence interval (CI), 0.09-0. 14) in November 2013, which is equal to an 89 % reduction in the malaria burden. Annual parasite incidence (API) across 19 Chinese border counties was reduced from 19.6 per 10 000 person-years in 2006 to 0.9 per 10 000 person-years in 2013. Compared with the baseline (API in 2006), the API rate ratio was only 0.05(95 % CI, 0.04- 0.05) in 2013, which equates to a reduction of the malaria burden by 95.0 %. Meanwhile, the health service system was strengthened and health inequity of marginalized populations reduced along the international border. Conclusion: The effective collaboration between China, Myanmar and the international non-governmental organization promptly carried out the core interventions through simplified processes. The integrated approaches dramatically decreased malaria burden of Chinese-Myanmar border. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the influence of anthropogenic forcing on the hot spring season in northern China in 2014. Topics covered include the contribution of natural and human-caused forcings to the high number of hot days in spring 2014, temperature responses to external forcings and the role of urbanization in the hot spring event.

Background Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A.actinomycetemcomitans) is an important periodontal pathogen that can participate in periodontitis and other non-oral infections. The cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt) is among the virulence factors produced by this bacterium. This study was to elucidate the distribution of A.actinomycetemcomitans and the prevalence of its cdtB gene in Chinese subjects. Methods A total of 255 subgingival samples were obtained from 30 subjects. Samples were collected from periodontal healthy sites as well as shallow, moderate and deep pockets. The absolute quantity of A.actinomycetemcomitans and cdtB gene were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results A.actinomycetemcomitans was detected in 92 of 105 (87.6%) samples of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) patients, in 73 of 79 (92.4%) samples of chronic periodontitis ( CP) patients and in 5 of 71 (7.0%) samples of periodontal healthy subjects. The cdtB gene was detected in 72 sites (78.3%) with AgP infected with A.actinomycetemcomitans, 54 sites (74.0%) with CP infected with A.actinomycetemcomitans and none in healthy sites infected with A.actinomycetemcomitans. In addition, quantity of A.actinomycetemcomitans and cdt gene in samples from deep pockets were significant larger than moderate, shallow and healthy sites (P < 0.05). In comparison to CP, AgP patients were infected with increased numbers of cdt genotype in deep pockets (P < 0.05). Conclusion This study suggests that the cdtB gene are prevalent in A.actinomycetemcomitans, and the distribution of cdt genotype strain may be correlated with AgP and serious periodontal inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The earlier and unprotected sexual behaviour of young Chinese, and the consequences of these actions, have become a health concern, posing a challenge to traditional Chinese concepts. The aim of the present study was to investigate changes in sexual behaviour and associated risks among adolescents and young people in mainland China over the past three decades. Methods: A meta-analysis was undertaken to comprehensively review the sexual behaviour of Chinese young people (aged from 10 to 24 years) over the past 30 years. Relevant data published from 1979 to 2009 in the Chinese literature database were identified and retrieved. Analysis was performed based on set criteria. Results: Seventy-five studies were identified that were published after 1990. Overall, the estimated prevalence of sexual intercourse among young people was 12.6%, with an average age at sexual debut of 19.4 years. The rate of condom use at sexual debut was 37.2%; 53.6% of young people reported not using a condom during the most recent act of sexual intercourse. The rates of unintentional pregnancy and abortion among the sexually active were 15.1% and 10.8%, respectively. Reviewing the data according to decades revealed that the number of young people engaging in sexual intercourse decreased from 14.3% in 1990-1999 to 11.8% in 2000-2009. However, these rates are higher than the prevalence of sexual activity reported before 1990, which, according to sporadic studies, did not exceeded 1%. Conclusions: There have been increases in sexual activity and high-risk sexual behaviour in Chinese young people in the decades since the adoption of the open door policy in China, particularly since the mid-1990s. High-risk sexual behaviours have contributed to certain adverse consequences in adolescents and young people, such as unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmissible infection. Thus, efficacious intervention strategies need to be developed and implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primula homogama F. H. Chen & C. M. Hu (Primulaceae) is endemic to the Emei Mountain of China. In this study, we characterized the complete chloroplast genome of P. homogama based on next-generation sequencing (NGS). The complete chloroplast genome of P. homogama was 154,677 bp in size with a typical quadripartite structure, containing a large single-copy (LSC) region of 85,299 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 17,816 bp. These two regions were separated by a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs), each of 25,781 bp. A total of 130 functional genes were encoded, consisted of 86 protein-coding genes (PCG), 36 tRNA genes, and eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the origin and historical development of independent candi-dates in People's Congress elections of mainland China. It discusses the motives and strategies of independent candidates, and how the Party-state copes with the growing independent candidate movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe the cumulative 5 year incidence of visual field loss in adult Chinese in Greater Beijing. Methods: The Beijing Eye Study 2006 included 3251 subjects (mean age 60.4±10.1 years) who had participated in the Beijing Eye Study 2001 and returned for re-examination. All participants underwent a comprehensive eye examination, including visual field test by frequency doubling threshold perimetry. An abnormal visual field was defined as reduced sensitivity in at least one test location. Incident visual field loss was defined as a change in visual field from normal at baseline to abnormal at follow-up. Results: An incident visual field loss was detected in 273 eyes (4.3±0.5%) /235 subjects (7.3±0.5%). It was significantly associated with higher age (P = 0.001), higher intraocular pressure (P<0.001), and higher fasting blood glucose concentration (P = 0.019). Considering only eyes (n = 140) with a detected cause for visual field loss, the most frequent causes were cataract (68 (48.6%) eyes) followed by glaucoma (23 (16.4%) eyes), diabetic retinopathy (13 (9.3%) eyes), agerelated macular degeneration (10 (7.1%) eyes), and myopic degenerative retinopathy (9 (6.4%) eyes). For 133 (48.7%) eyes with a visual field loss, the cause for the VFL remained unclear. Conclusions: The 5-year incidence of visual field loss was 4.3±0.5% per eye or 7.3±0.5% per subject. It increased significantly with age, intraocular pressure, and fasting blood glucose level. Major causes for the incidence of visual field loss were cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of psychological symptoms (depression, anxiety) among Chinese medical students and to find the possible relationships between psychological symptoms and social relationships. Methods: A sample of 10,140 medical students was investigated with a structured questionnaire, that included the Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Social Support Rating Scale, and Family APGAR Index (adaptability, partnership, growth, affection, resolve). Results: The present study revealed that 16.8% of the medical students suffered from depressive symptoms and 14.1% from anxiety symptoms. Female students were more likely to have anxiety, the second-year students had higher levels of psychological symptoms than the first-year students. Likewise, significant differences were found among college, satisfaction of specialty, and economic condition of the family in anxiety and depression symptoms. Social support, family function, and all dimensions were significantly negatively associated with depression and anxiety symptoms. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression showed that less social support, poor family function, the second-year students, and unsatisfactory specialty were associated with more psychological symptoms, after adjusting the effects of sex, age, and college. Conclusions: Medical students have a relatively high level of depression and anxiety symptoms. These findings support the hypothesis that if medical students are better supported and cared for, negative psychosocial consequences might be prevented or at least reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: A new subset of CD4+ T cells, Th17, has been recently discovered independent from Th1/Th2 paradigm. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of nonsurgical periodontal therapy on the expression of Th17/Th1/Th2 cytokines and transcription factors, and Th17 cell vibration in Chinese chronic periodontitis patients. Materials and methods: The levels of Th17/Th1/Th2 cytokines (IL-17, IL-21/IFN-γ/ IL-4) in gingival crevicular fluid from 30 chronic periodontitis patients before and after treatment were determined by ELISA. The expression of transcription factors (RORC, T-bet and GATA-3) in peripheral blood was measured by real-time PCR, and the levels of Th17 cells in CD41 T cells were determined by flow cytometry. Results: After treatment, the levels of IL-17 and IL-21were down-regulated (P<0.05), and IL-4 was increased (P<0.05), but there were no differences in the level of IFN-γ (P<0.05). Correspondingly, the expression of RORC was decreased 1.99-fold (P<0.05), and GATA-3 was increased 1.76-fold (P<0.05). However, there were no differences in the level of T-bet (P>0.05). Moreover, the quantity of Th17 cells in peripheral blood was decreased (P<0.05), especially IL-17+IFN-γ+ subgroup. Conclusions: These results suggest that Th17 cells play a destructive role in the immune balance of periodontitis, and the effect of Th1 cells is not significant, while Th2 cells have a protective effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper provides a scientific assessment of the inter-decadal variability of the Asian summer monsoon and its significant effect on precipitation patterns in China. The paper consists of four parts. The first part shows the observed inter-decadal weakening of the Asian summer monsoon since the end of 1970s. The second part describes the impact of the weakening Asian summer monsoon on precipitation in China, which caused the major monsoon rainbelt to shift southward from North China to South China over about 30 years, with a 60-80 oscillation dominating. The third part projects the future change of the Asian summer monsoon in the warmer climate by using IPCC AR4 climate models. It has been found that major monsoon rainfall belts in East Asia will move northward in the 2040s, with summer precipitation in North China increasing considerably and stably. Finally, in the fourth part, the implication of the adaptation to the above climate change and related water management will be discussed including the water transport engineering project from the Yangtze River to the Yellow River and North China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a second part of study concentrating on the inter-decadal variability of the summer precipitation in East China. It highlights an updated examination of continuing variations of snow cover, snow days and snow depth in the previous winter and spring snow over the Tibetan Plateau. Meanwhile, it discusses global warming issues relating to the oceanic basic state and the melting of Eurasian snow cover.

Researches on the impact of common ions onto sediments are of great importance for the study of the heavy metal adsorption mechanisms. Considering the surface sediments from the relatively clean reach in the Baotou section of the Yellow River as the adsorbent, this work presents the impacts of common ions (Na+, Mg2+, K+, Ca2+, Cl−, SO4 2−, and NH4 +) on heavy metals (Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+) adsorption. The experimental results reveal that the adsorptive capacities of the heavy metals are controlled by different adsorption mechanisms in different ion concentration ranges. With the increase of the ionic strength, the adsorption of the heavy metals increases for the compression of the electric double layer, whereas decreases for the decreasing of the ionic activities of the heavy metals. The competitive adsorption and complexations between the heavy metals and common ions are also important factors controlling the heavy metal adsorption. According to the experimental results and the real concentration of common ions in the Baotou section of the Yellow River, the increase of the concentrations of Na+, Mg2+, K+, and Ca2+ would cause the increase of Zn2+ adsorption and reduce the Zn pollution. The NH4 + from the industrial discharge of the tributaries has a strong impact on the heavy metal adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large-scale and comprehensive survey of public environmental awareness was carried out in Liaoning Province, China, where one of the largest heavy industrial bases is located. This survey was organized by the EU-CHINA Liaoning Integrated Environmental Program. The aim of the survey was to collect public information and awareness of environmental issues and therefore provide a valuable reference source for the government to formulate environmental policy. Statistical survey specialists and environmental protection experts worked together to establish survey items and questionnaires, and the design and survey were performed in strict accordance to the requirements of the project. The survey involved five large cities and 5996 respondents, representing residents, policy-makers, teachers, students, workers in enterprises, and farmers in suburban regions of the five cities. The evaluation of public opinion on current environmental issues and diversity among different survey groups were summarized statistically. The findings of the survey research are: the public is very concerned about air, water, and food pollution, improvement of the environment for community life and further global environmental changes. The survey also emphasized the need for better education to raise environmental awareness and the importance of public initiatives in environmental protection and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Based on the thorough study of electrolysis enrichment, gas–liquid phase catalytic exchange, gas chromatography for hydrogen isotope separation, and hydrogen–oxygen recombination technologies, a CECE–GC prototype system with disposal capability of 10ton/a of tritiated water was set up in the middle of 2004 at China Academy of Engineering Physics (CAEP). It has successfully fulfilled the demonstration experiment of recovering deuterium from deuterium contained water and simulation operation of recovering tritium from tritiated water. Total concentration factor of CECE about 4, and the separation factor of tritium around 10 for operation time of 240h with this system. The GC system of 50m3/d has successfully recovered 90% hydrogen from 10m3 tritiated hydrogen gas in 6h and the tritium concentration in this part was depleted more than 1000 times. This experimental system served as an important step stone for further engineering works. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study on inter-decadal variation of the summer precipitation in East China and its relation to decreasing Asian summer monsoons. It states that in the past twenty years, North and Northeast China have endured severe and relentless droughts while the Yangtze River basin and South China have undergone much more substantial heavy rainfall/floods events. It is identified that the East Asian summer monsoon season has experienced significant weakening, leading to insufficient moisture supply for precipitation in North China.

Baotou City is a representative heavy industrial city in the drainage basin of the Yellow River. This paper studies the pollution of a contaminated section (Baotou section) of the Yellow River, China, with a known anthropogenic heavy metal input from the industrial discharge. The distribution of heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Zn and Cd) in the overlying water, filtered water (overlying water filtered through a 0.45-µm filter membrane) and sediments was determined in the Baotou section of the Yellow River. The results of this research indicate that heavy metal pollutants transport mostly through the carriers of suspended particulates and sediments in the fluvial environment. Baotou City's industrial discharge draining into the Yellow River from the tributaries (the Kundulun River and the Sidaosha River) increases the concentrations of Cu, Pb, Zn and Cd in the mainstream and influences heavy metals speciation. Speciation analyses show that the Cd is easily enriched in the secondary phase (bioavailable form), followed by Pb. Furthermore, based on the acute water quality criteria (WQC-Acute) and chronic water quality criteria (WQC-Chronic) set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the acute sediment quality criteria (SQC-Acute) and the chronic sediment quality criteria (SQC-Chronic) are calculated respectively using the developed equilibrium partitioning approach (EqP). By comparing heavy metal contents in sediments with SQC-Acute and SQC-Chronic respectively, we note that Pb and Cd have posed a high risk to the quality of water environment and to the aquatic ecosystem health of Baotou section of the Yellow River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two hundred thirty specimens of wild birds were collected from some areas in Heilongjiang Province during the period of 2003∼2004, including two batches of specimens collected randomly from a same flock of mallards in Zhalong Natural Reserve in August and December, 2004, respectively. Primary virus isolation and identification for avian influenza virus (AIV) and Newcastle disease virus (NDV) were performed. The results showed that only two specimens of young mallards collected from Zhalong Natural Reserve in August, 2004 were positive to AIV (isolation rate 0.9%), and one strain (D57) of these two virus isolates was identified to be H9 subtype by hemagglutination inhibition test. Meanwhile, the two batches of blood serum samples of mallards from Zhalong were also examined for antibodies against AIV and NDV. Among 38 blood serum samples collected in August, antibodies against the hemagglutinin of H1, H3, H5, H6 and H9 subtypes of AIV were found in 1, 0, 2, 0 and 8 samples, respectively; and 11 samples were found with antibody against NDV. Whereas the NDV isolation in both two batches of specimens of mallard was negative, all of the 32 blood serum samples collected in December were negative for antibodies against AIV and NDV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mortality rate is a general indicator with which to measure care and management of schizophrenia. This cohort study evaluated the standardized mortality ratios of all-cause mortality and life-years lost in patients with schizophrenia under a community care program. The database of our study was obtained from the National Community Care Program System for Severe Mental Disorders. A total of 99,214 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia were enrolled before December 2014 and followed between 2015 and 2019. A total of 9483 patients died. Crude mortality rates (CMRs) and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) calculations were then stratified by natural/unnatural causes and major groups of death were standardized according to the 2010 National Population SMRs. The corresponding life-years lost at birth were also calculated by gender and age. The SMRs of patients with schizophrenia were significantly elevated during the study period with an overall SMR of 4.98 (95% CI, 2.67-7.32) in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. Neoplasms, cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, external injuries, and poisonings were the most significant causes of death among patients with schizophrenia compared to the general population. The life-years lost of patients with schizophrenia were 15.28 (95% CI, 13.26-17.30). Males with schizophrenia lost 15.82 life-years (95% CI, 13.48-18.16) and females lost 14.59 life-years (95% CI, 13.12-16.06). Clearly, patients with schizophrenia under community care had a high mortality rate in our study, even though the mental health services system has been integrated into the general healthcare system in China to narrow treatment gaps in mental health for > 10 years. In terms of mortality outcome indicators, effective and quality mental health services still have a long way to go. The current study demonstrates the potential for increased prevention and treatment of individuals with schizophrenia under community care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Patients with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) suffer high relapse rates during long-term treatment, but factors that predict relapse outcomes are not well established. In the present study, we aimed to identify predictive factors for treatment resistance and disease relapse in a Chinese IgG4-RD cohort., Methods: This study enrolled 102 patients newly diagnosed with IgG4-RD. Disease prognosis was determined by evaluating disease activity and dosage of glucocorticoids. Predictive factors for refractory and relapsed disease were identified by univariate analysis and Cox regression., Results: Among the 102 patients, 78 cases received medical treatment with regular follow-up (21 [6-111] months). During the follow-up period, 55 (70.5%) patients sustained clinical remission, and 23 (29.5%) patients suffered refractory or relapsed disease. The relapse rate of the patients with IgG4-RD was significantly higher among patients who stopped taking medicine than among those who continued treatment with glucocorticoids (GC) + immunosuppressor (IM). Serum TNF-α ≥ 13 pg/mL, sIL-2R ≥ 1010 U/mL, total cholesterol < 3.55 mmol/L, low-density lipoprotein < 2.0 mmol/L, IgG ≥ 20.2 g/L, and drug withdrawal were predictive factors for refractory and relapsed IgG4-RD. Multivariate Cox regression revealed that both sIL-2R and TNF-α were independent risk factors for refractory and relapsed disease. The combination of GC and IM treatment was an independent protective factor against refractory and relapsed IgG4-RD., Conclusions: High serum levels of sIL-2R and TNF-α may be informative risk factors for refractory and relapsed IgG4-RD. Our data suggest that a combination treatment of GC along with IM may be protective against refractory and relapsed IgG4-RD. Key Points • High sIL-2R and TNF-α levels are informative risk factors for refractory and relapsed IgG4-related disease. • Combination treatment of GC with IM protects against refractory and relapsed IgG4-related disease.

Purpose: We hypothesized that increased level of serum β2-microglobulin (β2M) is an independent factor associated with higher mortality in hospitalized patients with exacerbated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)., Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 488 hospitalized patients with exacerbated COPD as the first diagnosis at Beijing Chao-Yang hospital, P. R. China between December 31st, 2012 and December 28th, 2017. Concentrations of serum β2M and other clinical indexes were measured or collected on admission, and all patients were followed up to 90 days. The relationship between β2M and 30- and 90-day all-cause mortality was explored by Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, C-reactive protein values, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide/100, respiratory failure [RF, defined as partial arterial oxygen pressure (PaO 2 ) <60 mmHg on room air or PaO 2 over the fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO 2 /FiO 2 ) < 300], eosinopenia, consolidation, and acidaemia., Results: Median concentrations of β2M were significantly higher in non-survivals compared to survivals within 30 days (4.11 mg/L (IQR 3.10-6.60) vs 2.79mg/L (IQR 2.13-3.76), P < 0.001) and 90 days (3.79 mg/L (IQR 2.61-6.69) vs 2.79 mg/L (IQR 2.13-3.73), P < 0.001). Serum levels of β2M were correlated with 30-day and 90-day mortality in overall exacerbated COPD patients, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.09 (95% CI 1.04-1.14, P = 0.001) and 1.09 (95% CI 1.05-1.14, P < 0.001). In exacerbated COPD patients without RF and with RF, the HRs were 1.06 (95% CI 0.995-1.137, P = 0.069) and 1.14 (95% CI 1.02-1.27, P = 0.021) for 30-day mortality, 1.09 (95% CI 1.02-1.15, P = 0.010) and 1.14 (95% CI 1.03-1.26, P = 0.014) for 90-day mortality, respectively., Conclusion: Our data showed that concentrations of serum β2M were associated with an increased risk of mortality, suggesting that β2M might be a valuable predictor of poor prognosis for hospitalized patients with exacerbated COPD., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest in this work., (© 2020 Mao et al.)

Objective: To analyze the surveillance data after schistosomiasis transmission interruption from 1985 to 2018, so as to provide scientific basis for the future prevention and control of schistosomiasis., Methods: The data pertaining to snail survey, surveillance of schistosomiasis in humans and livestock, and health education were collected and analyzed in Songjiang District after schistosomiasis transmission interruption from 1985 to 2018., Results: From 1985 to 2018, there were 8 townships, 68 villages and 1 462 settings with snails in Songjiang District, covering an area of 96.399 hm 2 . There were 4 townships and 59 villages with snails newly identified in previously schistosomiasis non-endemic areas, with emerging snail habitats of 60.161 hm 2 . A total of 26 148 snails were captured, and no infections were detected. The snail habitats were mainly distributed in the river course, ditches and farmlands, which accounted for 45.28%, 33.17% and 21.55% of total snail habitats, respectively. A total of 245 955 humans were subjected to the serological test, with a positive rate of 0.03%, and 37 humans were subjected to the parasitological test, with 3 positives detected. These three egg-positives were all imported chronic cases with schistosomiasis. A total of 9 109 livestock were detected using the serological test, and no infection was found. Most of the awareness rate of schistosomiasis control knowledge and the rate of correct behavior formation were over 80% in residents and students., Conclusions: The achievements of schistosomiasis control are consolidated in Songjiang District; however, there are still risk factors of schistosomiasis transmission, including residual snails, snail diffusion and importation of external source of infection. The future surveillance of schistosomiasis should focus on snails and sources of infection.